~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: To Live and Die in Starlight, Day -6 - 2 Stardate: 2407.01.26 - 2407.02.02 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ List of Headers: (USS Boudicca, Corridor Outside Conference Room 2, Captain Grailik, 12:48) (USS Boudicca, Sickbay, Captain Grailik, 12:53) (USS Boudicca, Strategic Operations, StratOps, Lieutenant Commander Paul Casely, 1803) (USS Boudicca - COUNS Office - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 1805) (USS Boudicca, Strategic Operations, StratOps, Lieutenant Commander Paul Casely, 1806) (USS Boudicca, Deck 9, Officer's Mess, StratOps, Lieutenant Commander Paul Casely, 1818) (USS Boudicca - Deck 9 - Officer's Mess - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 1820) (USS Boudicca-Bridge, Ops-Victoria Sevant-19:30) (USS Boudicca - Corridor 10C- CSO- Dr. Maddison Munroe - 1935) (USS Boudicca-Deck 3-Victoria Sevant-19:37) (USS Boudicca - Science labs- Research Scientist - Dr. Engtamn-Jensi - 1941) (USS Boudicca-Outside Holodeck 2-Victoria Sevant-19:42) (USS Boudicca-Holodeck 2-Victoria Sevant-19:44) (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 2, 'The Nexus' - Capt Sevant - 19:45) (USS Boudicca - Turbo lift- ACSO- Ensign (jg) Sarrik - 1950) (USS Boudicca - Science labs- CSO- Dr. Maddison Munroe - 1956) (USS Boudicca - Science Labs - ACSO - Ensign (jg) Sarrik - 1956) (USS Boudicca - Personal Quarters - Commander Trevan West - 2010) (USS Boudicca - Rec Lounge - ACEO LT/JG Matthew McLaren - 2031) (USS Boudicca, Rec Lounge, TAC/ASC Ensign Samantha Chandler - 2032) (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - Commander Trevan West - 2301) (USS Boudicca - 'Helldeck' - Lt Major 'Spider Drizzt - 0132) (USS Boudicca, Corridor Deck 3, MCO Lt.Colonel Eva Straton 0715) (USS Boudicca, Sickbay, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0720) (USS Boudicca-Sickbay-CMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-07:24) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO, Lt Colonel Straton, 0735) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - TAC/SC Lt. Cmdr. Stolev - Day 2 - 0735) (USS Boudicca, Ten Forward, TAC/ASC Ensign Samantha Chandler - 0735) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Sevant - 0736) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Commander Trevan West - 0737) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, TAC/ASC Ensign Samantha Chandler - 0738) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0738) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - TAC/SC Lt. Cmdr. Stolev - Day 2 - 0738) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Capt Sevant - 0738) (USS Boudicca-Sickbay-CMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-07:39) (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0740) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0740) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0740) (USS Boudicca-Bridge Commander Trevan West-07:40) (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0741) (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0742) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0742) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - TAC/SC Stolev - Day 2 - 0743) (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0743) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, Captain Grailik, 0743) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - TAC/SC Stolev - Day 2 - 0744) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, Commander Trevan West, 0744) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0746) (USS Boudicca - Eva's Personal Quarters - TAC/SC Aleksander Stolev & Lt. Colonel Eva Straton -0753) (USS Boudicca, Sickbay, Triage Chief, Doctor Mor'rel, 0842) (USS Boudicca-Sickbay-CMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-08:43) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0907) (USS Boudicca - Corridor - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0910) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0913) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0913) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0915) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0917) (USS Boudicca - Strategic Operations - COUNS - Lt. Brian Rogers - 0922) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Start of Compile ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: To Live and Die in Starlight, Day 1 Stardate: 2407.02.01 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Corridor Outside Conference Room 2, Captain Grailik, 12:48) ==================================== "Right now works for me. Basically whatever time you want, sir," Mackenzie said. "Good," Grailik said, with a smile, "I'll meet you in your office then in five minuets then." (Reply Mackenzie) Grailik nodded and turned to head toward the lift. He needed to get the data from the secured safe in his cabin. He didn't leave stuff like that just laying around. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Sickbay, Captain Grailik, 12:53) ==================================== Grailik entered sickbay PADD in hand. He moved over to the CMO's office and tapped on the open door frame. (Reply Mackenzie) "Here we go," Grailik said, holding up the PADD. "Have to keep this stuff written down. My memory isn't like it use to be." He joked as he handed the decrypted PADD to Mackenzie before taking a seat in front of her desk. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Strategic Operations, StratOps, Lieutenant Commander Paul Casely, 1803) ==================================== The meeting had gone as well as could be expected. They were as ready as could be expected. Paul was getting tired however, he'd been working for fourteen hours without stopping. Glancing at his chrono he swore under his breath. His mind began to drift to his former crew. With that thought in mind, he tapped his comm badge. "Casely to Rogers," he said aloud. (Reply Rogers) "Brian, haven't seen you about in awhile. Guess we're all busy. Anyway, I have some free time at the moment and I'm contemplating going for food. Interested in joining me?" asked Paul. He had come to enjoy Brian Roger's company and while the work had kept Paul busy on a fairly regular basis, it would be good to meet and talk with his friend. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - COUNS Office - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 1805) ==================================== Brian was sitting at his desk, writing a report on a recent session with a crewmember when he heard a familiar electronic chirp, followed by a familiar voice. =/\= Casely to Rogers, =/\= Commander Casely said. Brian smiled and put down the PADD. "Yes, Commander. What can I do for you?" Rogers asked. =/\= Brian, haven't seen you about in awhile. Guess we're all busy. Anyway, I have some free time at the moment and I'm contemplating going for food. Interested in joining me? =/\= Casely asked. Brian looked down at the PADD which contained the half finished report. He thought it over, then put the PADD away. "Sure, Commander. What location did you have in mind?" Rogers asked. (reply Casely) "Okay. I'll see you in... 15 minutes?" Brian asked. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Strategic Operations, StratOps, Lieutenant Commander Paul Casely, 1806) ==================================== "Deck Nine Officer's Mess works for me," said Paul in response to Brian's question. =/\=Okay. I'll see you in... 15 minutes?=/\= "Sounds good Brian, see you then," stated Paul. The channel then closed and Paul finished the last of the reports. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Deck 9, Officer's Mess, StratOps, Lieutenant Commander Paul Casely, 1818) ==================================== Paul walked into the Mess hall and sat down. He could count on one hand the number of times he'd eaten here, generally taking meals in his own office as he worked. It would be good to socialize and to spend a bit of time out. Soon, he saw Brian enter and Paul waved him over and gestured to him to sit down. "So, how have things been going Brian?" asked Paul. (Reply Rogers) "Ummm... Paul is fine when we're off duty and socializing, okay?" said Paul with a wink and a smile. (Reply Rogers) "I'll tell you, Klingons are NOT the most easy people to deal with. So impatient. It is a fascinating culture, but I wish they'd just relax for a few minutes so I can do my job. They're going to be our X factor I'm afraid in the upcoming battle," said Paul lowering his voice conspiratorially. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Deck 9 - Officer's Mess - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 1820) ==================================== Brian strolled into the mess hall and looked around. He worried that he had gone to the wrong mess hall, but spotted Commander Casely waving to him. Brian nodded and walked over, then sat at the table where he was. "So, how have things been going Brian?" Casely asked. "Well, Commander, I can say that crew morale is high, despite the mission. Also, no suspicious behavior from the crew either," Brian said. He felt like he was reporting in a staff meeting. "Ummm... Paul is fine when we're off duty and socializing, okay?" The commander said. "Uh, okay... Paul," Brian said. ~I suppose it had been a long time since we had seen each other off duty, or any one from Geneva for that matter,~ Brian thought. "So, tell me, how are things in Strategic Operations?" Brian asked. "I'll tell you, Klingons are NOT the most easy people to deal with. So impatient. It is a fascinating culture, but I wish they'd just relax for a few minutes so I can do my job. They're going to be our X factor I'm afraid in the upcoming battle," Paul explained. NRPG: The return of the 'famous' Rogers family. Brian hasn't talked about them in a while... so I couldn't resist. RPG: "Well, my father had to deal with Klingons when he was a captain. He said that they got the job done when it came to battle," Brian said. (reply Casely) "So, now you've settled into the new StratOps center, how do you like it now that you have to work in it every day?" Brian asked. ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Bridge, Ops-Victoria Sevant-19:30) ==================================== Finally getting her much need break from the bridge, she was glad to hand over the station to her relief. "...and make sure to keep an eye on these readings," Vicki finished as she gave a quick report on the systems and what had been going on. Sighing, she raised her eyebrow and departed the bridge in exhuberance to get to her quarters and relax. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Corridor 10C- CSO- Dr. Maddison Munroe - 1935) ==================================== "Astrophysics and metaphysics. I am also extremely proficient in astronavigation and complex mathematical computations. How about you?" Sarrik told her. Maddie smiled again, knowing that it should be ineffective with this Vulcan. "I'm actually the ships Cultural Anthropologist. It comes in handy, but I thik I make a poor department chief, as many times I have absolutely no idea what the other SO's are doing." Her Australian drawl became a bit pronounced. "It'll be good to have an assistant that understands all the scientific stuff that's going on in the labs." They came to the turbo lift and when the doors opened stepped on. "Science labs," she told the computer, and the turbo lift began to move. "I'll take you round the labs and introduce you to the gang," she said, "then I'll show you your office. Are you working on any projects currently? I guess I'm wondering if you have any equipment or materials you'll need." ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Deck 3-Victoria Sevant-19:37) ==================================== As Vicki walked the corridor in anticipation to arrive at her quarters, something suddenly stopped her. She felt an overwhelming feeling of an emotion she just couldn't grasp at first, then quickly realized it was the emotion of an overbearing need. It felt as if someone were literally grabbing out at her, calling her and superimposing upon her own will. Turning to face the direction from which she had just came, it hit her. She now knew this yearning and pull because of her bond. Her bond to Caladryll Sevant. Quickly getting back into the turbolift, she followed the 'mental trail' of emotions to get to him. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Science labs- Research Scientist - Dr. Engtamn-Jensi - 1941) ==================================== It felt good to be back at work. Engtamn had spent the better part of the day working on his experimental power source. The item didn't seem to be yielding anymore secrets and he found himself getting frustrated, this was an interesting sensation for him. Engtamn was used to working, and failing. He generally took it in stride, now with the change that had grasped him, he found his patience to be greatly shortened. After ten more minutes of work, Engtamn couldn't take it anymore and decided that a break was necessary. "Computer, lock down this lab with security protocols, authorization Engtamn-Jensi five beta nine lamda," stated Engtamn, initiating the Federation security codes that he knew only senior command staff could access. [Lock down completed.] With that, Engtamn exited his lab and saw the Chief Science Officer speaking to another scientist in the department. He quickly walked up to her and peered in at the young Vulcan. "Hello Doctor Munroe, who do we have here?" asked Engtamn doing his best to force a smile. (Reply Munroe) "Very nice to meet you Mr. Sarrek, I am Doctor Engtamn-Jensi. I do work on theoretical energy sources and related work. What is your area of expertise?" asked Engtamn. (Reply Sarrek) Engtamn nodded and turned to Maddie. "Doctor Munroe, I'm just going to get some dinner. Apparently I lost track of time. I don't suppose you'd be interested in a meal?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Outside Holodeck 2-Victoria Sevant-19:42) ==================================== Standing outside the holodeck, Vicki was unsure if she should enter or not. She had been so sure of herself earlier while she was on her way to her quarters. But now she didn't want to feel like she was intruding upon him. ~But he is my husband,~ she thought, ~and I will be with him wherever he may go.~ She knew he was still in the process of adapting, but she couldn't neglect the bond between them either. Giving in, she followed her instincts and entered the holodeck. ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Holodeck 2-Victoria Sevant-19:44) ==================================== Entering slowly into the holodeck, Vicki saw the place she once shared with her husband. It was a place from which she could recall her happiest of times, and she assumed Caladryll felt the same way. As she let the wind blow through her long strands of hair, she folded her arms across her chest and narrowed her eyes to keep them from watering. The site was really quite beautiful. Ocean, shoreline, trees......and her husband. Her eyes finally rested upon him as he seemed to be sitting near the shoreline, as if in a great deal of thought. Not wanting to disturb that thought, but knowing he knew already that she had entered, it didn't matter now. Slowly, Vicki walked up until she was just behind him. She then came to his right side and knelt next to him in the sand. "Mind if I join you?" <> She wasn't quite sure how to start the conversation since she knew he was having trouble adapting to her, so she played it the safe way for now. Looking out into the ocean, she continued to let the wind rake through her hair as she awaited his respose...beit emotional or physical. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 2, 'The Nexus' - Capt Sevant - 19:45) ==================================== "Mind if I join you?" Caladryll remained silent for many long moments, the internal argument he'd been having since she arrived raging within his mind, although not with as much vigor as it had in weeks past. The time they had spent together had silenced many of his silent debates. It was more the echo of morality that fought in his mind now, that final question of 'is she my wife' that would surge at unpredictable times. He shifted on the balls of his feet into a more comfortable position and then ran his fingers through the sand he knelt in front of. His thoughts took a different direction then, and he left the sand fall from his fingers in front of him. "We've both been through hell in the last year," he said quietly. "For one reason or another. Would you do it over again, if you had the choice knowing it would turn out like this?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Turbo lift- ACSO- Ensign (jg) Sarrik - 1950) ==================================== "Science labs," Dr. Munroe said as they entered the turbo lift. Once the doors closed, the turbo lift began to move. "I'll take you round the labs and introduce you to the gang then I'll show you your office. Are you working on any projects currently? I guess I'm wondering if you have any equipment or materials you'll need." Dr. Monroe continued. "Not at the moment," Sarrik replied. "But let me know if there is anything that needs to be done. I would be glad help in any way I can." The Turbo lift stopped and the doors opened. The two science officers walked down the corridors in silence until they reached the labs. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Science labs- CSO- Dr. Maddison Munroe - 1956) ==================================== As Maddie was taking Serrak through the labs, she was realizing that most of the staff had left for the day. The only ones left were the diligent and the those in the middle of something they couldn't leave, and she really didn't want to disturb them. The science staff on the Boudicca had thinned out a great deal lately, so Maddie's tour of the science labs had been short. Then she stopped outside the ACSO's office. "This will be your office, Ensign," she informed him. You have a lab that is adjoined to it. It will be mostly empty at the moment, but make a list of items you'll need and I'll make an effort to get them as soon as possible." She looked at the Vulcan, who had remained silent for the most part. "Do you have any questions?" (reply Sarrek) "Well then," she told him," why don't you get settled into your quarters tonight, and then tomorrow we can have breakfast together, and get started on your duties." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Science Labs - ACSO - Ensign (jg) Sarrik - 1956) ==================================== As Sarrik followed Dr. Munroe through the labs, he noticed that they were mostly empty. ~This must be after hours,~ he thought. After a few minutes, they stopped outside an office. "This will be your office, Ensign," Dr. Munroe said. "You have a lab that is adjoined to it. It will be mostly empty at the moment, but make a list of items you'll need and I'll make an effort to get them as soon as possible." She turned to look at Sarrik. "Do you have any questions?" "None so far," replied Sarrik. There was a lot to take in and he had had a long journey. "Well then," Dr. Munroe told him," why don't you get settled into your quarters tonight, and then tomorrow we can have breakfast together, and get started on your duties." "Yes, M'am. What time would you like to meet?" Sarrik had just finished when another science officer walked up to them. "Hello Doctor Munroe, who do we have here?" the new officer said. (reply Munroe) "Very nice to meet you Mr. Sarrik, I am Doctor Engtamn-Jensi. I do work on theoretical energy sources and related work. What is your area of expertise?" asked Engtamn. "Astrophysics, specifically dealing with wormhole theory and tachyon emissions from them. I also deal in metaphysics as it relates to travel through wormholes." Sarrik put his hand out in human fashion at the meeting of a new colleague. He had picked this up on Earth and was now used to it. (reply Engtamn iyw) Dr. Engtamn nodded and turned to Dr. Munroe. "Doctor Munroe, I'm just going to get some dinner. Apparently I lost track of time. I don't suppose you'd be interested in a meal?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Personal Quarters - Commander Trevan West - 2010) ==================================== After a long shift on the bridge, Trevan took off his uniform and turned on the sonic shower. He didn't really need one but it sure felt good none the less. After showering he put on his off duty clothes and placed his communicator on and took a stroll down to Holodeck 4. The giant holodeck doors slid open to reveal the yellow holodeck grid waiting for him. "Computer, show me Earth as of 8 years ago, 1300 hours, McKinley Shuttle Port." Within seconds of his commands the beautiful vista of Earth appeared around him. "Now add details from my secure personal log, file West Omega One One." Around him the Port came to life with shuttles flying in and out, aliens and humans walking about doing their business, Starfleet personnel doing their duties, and twenty meters in front of him stood a large landing pad. In a few moments a shuttle, designated the Feynman would be approaching from the East. It was just landing to pick up additional passengers before heading out to Starbase 63. The Shuttle appeared on the horizon and started it's approach to the landing pad when a flash of light nearly blinded him. When the light faded away all he could see was debris falling to the ground. One of the shuttles nacelles whipped over his head by a few feet. "So this is what it looked like." he said to himself. In front of Trevan was the final re-creation of the shuttle accident that killed his Fiancé all those years ago. Trevan re-created the accident using the shuttle logs, witnesses and other data supplied over the last few years. Now finally he could see what he never saw before. People were running and screaming all over the place, emergency units were being dispatched but he already knew the outcome. Everyone was dead. The fortunate few were vaporized instantly by the heated plasma that escaped from the Shuttle's engine. Trevan shed some tears, then a wave of anger washed over him. "Computer," he spoke sadly, "rewind simulation to time index 1441. Place me in the shuttle Feynman. Add appropriate passengers from the crew manifest." The computer responded and two seats away from him was the woman he will never forget. He walked up to her, placed a kiss on her cheek and stepped to the rear of the shuttle. "Run program." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Rec Lounge - ACEO LT/JG Matthew McLaren - 2031) ==================================== "Yeah, that is definitely a perk to being on a ship like this," Sam agreed. "We get to work with things that weren't on Geneva. It makes for an interesting time here." Matthew nodded his agreement and took another sip from his drink. The conversation trailled off into silence for a few seconds as they both reflected on the changes in their lives. Matthew put his empty glass down and leaned back in his chair. Trying to move the conversation to things other than work he asked: "So what sort of music are you into?" He asked hoping that the question didn't seem too random. (Reply Sam) Nrpg: Really dont know what you're gunna answer here so leave room for more convo if needed. rpg: "Yeh um pretty much anything, my uncle was really into andorian blues and stuff like that on the rare occasion that he did something normal and listened to it. So i've come to like that a bit." He motioned to a passing waiter and ordered another drink. "Do you play anything?" He asked. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Rec Lounge, TAC/ASC Ensign Samantha Chandler - 2032) ==================================== Silence reigned at the table for a few moments, as Sam and Matt were left to reflect on their thoughts. Matt broke the silence, "So what sort of music are you into?" he asked. Sam took a sip of her drink before answering, "I used to be into terran classical music, when I was a kid. But I have kinda lost interest," she said. "What about you?" "Yeh um pretty much anything, my uncle was really into andorian blues and stuff like that on the rare occasion that he did something normal and listened to it. So I've come to like that a bit," Matt answered. He motioned to the waiter and ordered another drink before asking, "Do you play anything?" "I learned how to play the piano at a young age," Sam answered. "But once I became a teenager, I became interested in other things and didn't really have time to play it. It has been a while since I have." (Reply McLaren) "So, what made you want to be an engineer?" Sam asked, changing the topic. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - Commander Trevan West - 2301) ==================================== He knew he had to be on duty in a few hours but he couldn't pry himself away from the bar. Trevan took a swig from his glass of Andorian ale, slammed it back on the table and placed his head there as well. It was a little empty so not too many people were paying close attention to him. He didn't care. Sure, he was the First Officer of the finest ship in the fleet, but he was allowed to have problems like everyone else. Slowly his gaze turned towards the stars, and he stared at them with a drained, empty look to his face. They would never look the same again. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: To Live and Die in Starlight, Day 2 Stardate: 2407.02.02 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ==================================== (USS Boudicca - 'Helldeck' - Lt Major 'Spider Drizzt - 0132) ==================================== Spider carefully stuck his head out from the ceiling of the nameless federation facility and looked around. There was nobody in the corridor, all was silent. Odd, considering he'd programmed this facility (one of a couple dozen rotating designs, since they didn't know the exact plans of where they were going yet) to be on high standing alert, as would be expected in a facility such as the kind they were going to destroy. He stuck his head back up and held up a fist to the waiting squad, followed by a '0' with his hand. He grabbed his scatter-gun with one, slid on his butt, and then jumped down from the vent as carefully as he could. He immediately moved forward and crouched by a wall as the rest of his CE and Backup Unit followed along. Spider had already decided that his CE unit needed some CE'ish training. Regular marine exorcizes didn't exactly test their special skills, unless it was a Company-wide exorcize with all the trimmings. His backup squad was the Recon unit 'Countdown', who by design were quieter in how they moved, thus an excellent partner to a CE unit in heavy fire. The CCE waited until both squads were down and the area was secured before sticking his head around a corner, which he stuck back again quickly. He hissed over the Marine only line and held up his hand with two fingers sticking out. A 2 man patrol was enroute. The Marine closest to him pulled out a combat-knife, as did Spider, and they crouched by the corner waiting to spring. Seconds later, they got their chance. Both Marines pounced on the roving guard and quickly got their hands around the guards' mouths. Spider stuck his knife deep into his man's chest before twisting the blade, whereas his partner opted to stick the knife hard into the base of the neck, cutting off the spinal cord. Both were equally effective, and both men were laid to the floor gently without a sound having been made. "Alright men." He said quietly into his mic. "Leapfrog forward by pairs, we've got to get to the center quickly." ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Corridor Deck 3, MCO Lt.Colonel Eva Straton 0715) ==================================== Eva had left Isengard's quarters and was making her way toward the turbo lift intending to head to her office on the Marine deck. That was before the nausea kicked in full force. It had started in Isengard's quarters, but it had been a weak feeling, something easily ignored. Now though, as she walked down the corridor, it had increased hundred fold. She was forced to turn back and run back to her quarters. Quickly tapping in the security code, she charged through the doors before they had fully opened and ran to head, where she violently emptied her stomach of the breakfast she had only recently eaten. ~Damn doctors and their chemical cocktails!~ Eva thought vehemently as she finished vomiting and straightened up grabbing a towel to wipe her mouth. She splashed some cool water on her face, and pushed a few stray strands of hair out of her face. After composing herself again, Eva headed for the corridor again. This time with a new destination in mind. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Sickbay, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0720) ==================================== The doors to sickbay opened to allow Eva entrance. She was still feeling nauseous and her mood was continuing to sour along with the feeling in her gut. "May I help you," A nurse asked, walking up to Eva. "You better be," Eva snapped harshly, "That chemical cocktail I was injected with yesterday has left me sick to my stomach today." "Uh, yes Ma'am," the nurse said, trying to remain professional, "If you will come this way. We will take a look and see what we can do about that for you." Eva followed the nurse with a scowl. She had not liked the idea of having been injected with a suppressant in the first place. That it had such bothersome side effects only made her hate it more. "Please have a seat up here," the nurse said, motioning to an empty bio-bed while sorting through some medical equipment nearby. Eva did as she was told, hopping up on the bio-bed, scowling at the nurse as she ran a medical tri-corder over her mid-section. The tri-corder gave a beep as the nurse passed the medical scanner over Eva's abdomen. The nurse looked at the tri-corder and her brow shot up in surprise. "What?" Eva demanded, easily feeling the nurses surprise. "Please wait here," The nurse said, elusively as she turned and headed into the CMO's Office. Eva ground her jaws and narrowed her eyes as she watched the nurse say something and show Commander Mackenzie the reading on the tri-corder. Tempted to listen in, Eva closed her eyes and forced herself to calm down. She took a deep breath, held it, then let it out slowly. She opened her eyes to see Commander Mackenzie heading her way with the medical tri-corder in hand and the nurse in tow. Mackenzie made some adjustments to the tri-corder, took the medical probe from the top and ran it over Eva from head to foot. Then came back to focus on Eva's abdomen. Again the tri-corder beeped. Mackenzie looked at the tri-corder while she replaced the medical probe back on top of the tri-corder. "Colonel Straton," Mackenzie said, "Your pregnant." Eva was shell shocked, and her facial expression showed it. Her mouth hung open, her eyes wide. "Impossible," She stammered, looking down at her abdomen while placing a hand over her stomach. Mackenzie turned the tri-corder around and held it up for Eva to see. Eva blinked as she focused on the readings showing on the tri-corder display. "This," Mackenzie said, pointing to one reading, "indicates that you are indeed pregnant, and this," she pointed to another reading a little further down. "means it's going to be twins." Eva stared dumbfounded at the tri-corder readings. She took hold of the tri-corder still staring at the reading, trying to get her mind around the concept. She had never planned on having children and certainly not now. Yet there it was. She felt a hypo against her neck, and she spun around bring up a hand to block the offending hypo. "Something for the nausea," Mackenzie explained. Eva blinked and turned back to staring at the tri-corder. "So who is the father?" the nurse asked suddenly. "What?" Eva said, still too shocked to be aware of what was going on around her. "The father," the nurse repeated, "Who is the lucky guy?" Eva blinked then snapped the tri-corder shut and jumped down from the bio-bed. The nurses words snapping her out of her shocked state. With a look at the nurse and then Mackenzie, Eva turned and bolted out of sickbay. ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Sickbay-CMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-07:24) ==================================== Rubbing the bridge of her nose, she squinted her eyes as she was wishing away the headache that was oncoming. She knew being a doctor that she could just give herself an injection of an antihistamine to make it go away, but of coarse being stubborn as she was, she waited it out. "Doctor, I need you to look at these tricorder readings," she heard her nurse say as she entered her office. Sighing, she took the tricorder from her nurse and looked at the readings. "Whoever it is, she's pregnant," Mackenzie said, hoping to get back to what she was doing. Her nurse didn't say anything, and didn't move for a moment. Looking up, Kaitlyn said, "What is it?" "It's....Colonel Straton, ma'am." Kaitlyn looked at her nurse like a deer would look at oncoming headlights from a truck. ~You've got to be kidding me,~ she thought. ~Straton?~ Finally, Kaitlyn moved her head to the side and looked around her nurse, only to see Eva sitting on the biobed. It was now clear why her nurse was standing there and not wanting to move. Knowing Straton, she was hard to deal with sometimes, and Kaitlyn knew this would be one of them. Standing up, she said, "Well, lets give her the news." As she then moved from her office into the main area of sickbay, her nurse followed her out, and stayed close to her side. Kaitlyn didn't know why. After all, it wasn't like Straton was going to pop off the biobed and chase her around. It made her feel like a mother with a child hiding behind her hugging her legs. "Colonel Straton," Mackenzie said, "Your pregnant." "Impossible," She stammered, as she took the tricorder from Mackenzie and looked at the read outs herself. "This," Mackenzie said, pointing to one reading, "indicates that you are indeed pregnant, and this," she pointed to another reading a little further down. "means it's going to be twins." There was no other clear cut way to tell her she was pregnant, and Kaitlyn didn't think she would handle the news well, especially given her current assignment in the marines. Instructing the nurse to give her a hypospray, the nurse then quickly handed her one with an all inclusive drug for nausea. As Kaitlyn pressed it to the side of Eva's neck, she noticed as she came up to swat her away. "It's just for nausea," she explained, then continued with the injection. "So who is the father?" the nurse asked suddenly. Kaitlyn turned to look at her nurse. Given Eva's current state of mind she hoped she didn't bolt off the biobed and smack her nurse across the face one. She was definitly suprised at her nurse, given that she seemed to be intimidated by Straton anyways. "What?" Eva said, still too shocked to be aware of what was going on around her. "The father," the nurse repeated, "Who is the lucky guy?" Without any answer to the question, Kaitlyn watched as Straton jumped up and bolted out of sickbay. Looking at her nurse who looked back at Mackenzie, she said, "I'll be in my office if you need anything else." Once back in her office, she sat down at the computer and looked up Straton's medical file. "Computer, make an addendum to this file." The computer beeped in response, and she then continued. "On stardate 2407.02.02, Colonel Eva Straton was found to be pregnant with twins. She is five weeks along thus far, and was only given medication for nausea. A later check up date will soon be scheduled." Pushing a button on the computer, it beeped once more and ended her log. Kaitlyn knew this would be the worst timing as it was right in the middle of a war. ~Now to let Sevant know.....~ ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO, Lt Colonel Straton, 0735) ==================================== Eva knew right where Sasha was. She didn't need the computer to tell her. She could feel him, and right now he was standing over the tactical console preparing to start his shift on the Bridge. Eva charged out of the lift nearly knocking a crewman down, as she made a bee line right for Sasha. She walked right up to him, put her hand on his shoulder and forcefully turned him to face her. With her other hand she snapped open the tri-corder and thrust it in front of his face. "You know what this mean!?" She shouted in Sasha's face, catching the attention of everyone on the bridge. Sasha looked confused from the tri-corder then at Eva. Eva looked into his eyes and her anger suddenly dissolved. Tears welled up in her eyes and her body shook with powerful emotions barely held in check. She tried to hold back the tears and failed. "I'm pregnant," She gasped as she fell into Sasha's arms sobbing. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Bridge - TAC/SC Lt. Cmdr. Stolev - Day 2 - 0735) ==================================== Humming the theme from Swan Lake quietly to himself, Sasha tapped a few more commands into the tactical console. While it wasn't technically time for his duty shift to start, he figured he'd take the opportunity to get started a little early, especially since he'd given Lt. Isengard the night shift off to recuperate from his psychic battle with Eva the previous morning. He looked up as he heard the door to the turbolift open, and a slight smile came to his face as he felt Eva's presence on the bridge. He heard her footsteps on the deck plating as she walked towards him. He was about to turn and face her when she suddenly put her hand on his shoulder and spun him towards her as she shoved an opened tricorder into his face. "You know what this means!?" she quite unexpectedly shouted at him. Sasha looked briefly at the tricorder, but could only tell that it was the results of some sort of medical scan. He then looked back at Eva, wide-eyed, unsure of what to say or do or what had brought this on. He saw the tears well up in her eyes as her body shook from some powerful emotional force -- he could sense her anguish clear as day through the telepathic link that had begun to form between them over the past week. "I'm pregnant," she gasped as she fell into Sasha's arms, sobbing. Sasha instinctively wrapped her in his arms, but his mind was racing. At least now he knew what the tricorder readout had been showing. His own tears began to blur his vision as his emotions became compounded with the flood of emotions that his close physical contact with Eva had opened up. He tried desparately to think of what to say, what to do, how he could fix it, how he could make it better, while trying not to think about all the implications of what she had just told him, but in the end, all he could do was kiss the side of her heard and hold her as she sobbed, mindlessly whispering "it'll be okay" into her ear over and over. "Colonel, Commander." Sevant's firm voice snapped Sasha out of his trance, and he looked up to see the CO pointing to the ready room. A quick glance around showed that the rest of the bridge crew had dropped whatever they were doing to openly stare at him and Eva, some with their mouths hanging open. "Mr. West, see to the start of Day Watch. Tactical Relief to the bridge." Slowly Sasha disengaged himself from Eva and held her back so that he could look in her face. "Let's go," he told her softly. "I think... well, we have some explaining to do." ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Ten Forward, TAC/ASC Ensign Samantha Chandler - 0735) ==================================== Sam wanted to get an early start on the day and had came to Ten Forward early to grab a bite before going on duty. She finished eating and drank the last of her coffee in her cup before standing. She place it where it could be disposed of and then walked out of Ten Forward. She barely walked five feet before Captain Sevant's voice came over the comm, =/\=Tactical Relief to the bridge.=/\= Sam wondered what was going on but turned and headed for the bridge. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Sevant - 0736) ==================================== "... it was quiet, as the report shows, Sir." Caladryll nodded as he looked over the duty-log, as was his habit before retiring to the ready-room to look over his itinerary before starting day-watch. It had indeed been a quiet night, so much the better. The days to follow were going to be anything but quiet. His quiet contemplation of the log was shattered as the doors to the bridge opened as Straton came barreling in. Sevant's face tightened as he stepped forward after Colonel Straton had manhandled his Security Chief by spinning him around and screaming in his face. His hand had already been moving to his badge to call for medical, thoughts of the psychic battle and possible medical problems flashed through his mind... other thoughts of mental complications, psychic imprints of Isengard's rage floated as well. This was no way to run a bridge. However, his hand paused when she suddenly said; "I'm pregnant," and in a sight he had never dreamed of seeing in his lifetime, fell into the Security Chief's arms in tears. (reply: Stolev) Sevant remained silent for a few moments; shock warred with anger. Shock at how his Commander of Marines was behaving, anger that they were both making a mockery of his bridge. After another moment of quick thought, however, he had come to a decision. "Colonel, Commander." He said in a solid tone as he pointed to the ready room. "Mr. West, see to the start of Day Watch. Tactical Relief to the bridge." (reply: All mentioned) He turned on his heel and made way for the Ready Room, not stopping to see if he would be followed. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Commander Trevan West - 0737) ==================================== Trevan was busy loading up data on his chair's display when out of the corner of his eye he could see someone enter the bridge. He thought nothing of it and continued to read. After a few moments a scream rippled through the bridge that startled him. He looked up and snapped his head around to see Stolev and Straton in what could only be described as a beginning to a fight. Trevan was about to raise a voice to them but the Captain beat him to it, he could see the look of anger and frustration boiling underneath his Vulcan Captain. If he didn't know him better he probably would not have noticed it. "Colonel, Commander." He said in a solid tone as he pointed to the ready room. "Mr. West, see to the start of Day Watch. Tactical Relief to the bridge." "Aye sir, I'm already on it," and proceeded to place himself in the command chair and start the day watch. "Computer begin day watch." The computer chirped its reply and the Bridge lights brightened and silently the computer notified all crew on day watch to begin. He was glad to see most of the crew was already at stations and his Tactical Relief came in moments after the Captain entered his ready room. 'I hope the bulkheads can take the pressure in that room' he thought to himself. Trevan sat back and continued to read the update reports he was reading before the rollercoaster left the tracks. "Bridge to Sickbay, What is the status of the crew inoculations?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Bridge, TAC/ASC Ensign Samantha Chandler - 0738) ==================================== Sam stepped on the bridge just in time to see Stolev and Straton follow the captain into his ready room. Seeing the look on everyone's faces, she wondered what she had just missed. She walked over to the tactical station and took a seat. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0738) ==================================== "Let's go," Sasha told her softly. "I think... well, we have some explaining to do." For the first time, Eva considered where they were and looked around the Bridge. ~$%&#~ She thought as she suddenly felt ashamed of herself and the way she was acting. ~I've faced the Borg, Xenolithe, and even the mind devouring Psi-ders. All with out fear. Without shedding a tear. Now, at the thought of being pregnant, I fall to pieces.~ Eva entered the Ready Room first followed by Sasha and then Sevant. Eva wiped the tears from her eyes and face and mentally kicked herself for her behavior. She stopped in front of Sevant's desk and came to attention ready for the chewing she knew she deserved for her unprofessional behavior. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Bridge - TAC/SC Lt. Cmdr. Stolev - Day 2 - 0738) ==================================== "Let's go," Sasha told Eva softly. "I think... well, we have some explaining to do." The look on Eva's face changed and the sobs subsided as she looked around the bridge. Wordlessly, she turned and walked to the ready room. Sasha followed her right in, and behind them he heard the door close behind Sevant as he entered the room. Eva was wiping the tears from her eyes and face as she came to attention in front of Sevant's desk. Sasha tried to gather some semblance of a professional composure himself as he stepped to attention beside her and waited for Sevant to address them. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Capt Sevant - 0738) ==================================== Sevant stopped at the door and turned, waiting for the two to join him. After a few moments they did, Sevant let them slide past before following himself and letting the door close behind him. They both came to attention before the desk, but the Captain chose to ignore them for a moment. "Coffee." He said as he stepped up to the replicator. "My usual mix." The computer beeped and produced a medium-large sized mug of the steaming brew, which he took quietly and sipped, still facing the replicator. He used the time to gather his thoughts, to figure out exactly what he was going to say to these two. He turned around slowly and faced the two, both of which were still looking forward at attention. His left index finger tapped the coffee mug a few times in thought before he said, "Both of you, have a seat." In a tone that booked no argument. (reply: Stolev, Straton) Sevant stepped behind his desk and placed the mug on his desk, but didn't take a seat as he looked over the two officers. Eva was still pulling herself together, apparently, her cheeks still wet from tears. Stolev almost looked like he had been pole-axed. The Captain could believe it, he'd had the same look on his face (so he was told) when Victoria had given him the same news. ... albeit in a more calm manner, and in private. "Colonel Straton." He said in a deceptively mild tone, fixing his gaze on her. "Just what do you think you were doing, disturbing my bridge and laying hands on my bridge crew? You know better then that." ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Sickbay-CMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-07:39) ==================================== Only moments after Straton had left sickbay, Kaitlyn has busied herself with making the addendum to her file. Along with that, she still had to notify Sevant about the pregnancy......if he didn't already know. Even if he did, she still had to talk to him so it was on official medical report. As she went to tap her communicator that hung on her chest, it suddenly beeped through with a communication for her instead. Her hand stopped just short of actually tapping it. =^=Bridge to Sickbay, What is the status of the crew inoculations?=^= "Most of the crew have been innoculated and I'm still working on administering it to some of the others." <> "Aye sir, I'll have it finished by the end of my shift. Mackenzie out." Tapping her commbadge to close communications, she decided instead to write up the report before finishing the innoculations. She had already given Straton hers, and since she was pregnant, she would have to be carefully watched. Kaitlyn sighed as she once more buried herself in the report for Sevant. Sometimes she just hated medical with a passion and wondered what on earth she'd gotten herself into this time.... ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0740) ==================================== "Colonel Straton." Sevant finally said in a deceptively mild tone, fixing his gaze on her. "Just what do you think you were doing, disturbing my bridge and laying hands on my bridge crew? You know better then that." "I offer no excuse sir," Eva replied, her voice regaining some of it's usual edge. "It was unprofessional and I stand ready to face disciplinary action." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0740) ==================================== "Colonel Straton." Sevant finally said in a deceptively mild tone, fixing his gaze on her. "Just what do you think you were doing, disturbing my bridge and laying hands on my bridge crew? You know better then that." "I offer no excuse sir," The MCO replied much more like her usual self. "It was unprofessional and I stand ready to face disciplinary action." "Perhaps..." he said. He turned his gaze to Stolev, "I am assuming from your behavior on the bridge that you would not wish to press charges. If this assumption is at all incorrect, say so now." (reply: Stolev) NRPG: I am assuming some sort of 'nope, no pressing charges' here. If this is wrong, Just ignore the rest of this. RPG: "Very well." Sevant said. "Then we shall leave today's events as they are, with a stern warning -never- to let it happen again." His gaze rested on his MCO again, and then with a sigh and a small head-shake he turned his chair and sat down with as much dignity as he could. "And you both put us in a hell of a fix," he finally said. "My Chief of Security and my Chief of Marines, and now my Chief of Marines is in a position where it will be very difficult to put her in the line of fire... all this in a time of war. Your timing, gentlemen, is atrocious. " He drummed his fingers on the desk. He found it very hard to take them to task for personal matters when he was embroiled in his own, but now that she was pregnant... he was going to have a very difficult time putting her on the line. ~Gods help us.~ he thought to himself. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0740) ==================================== "Colonel Straton." Sevant said mildly, fixing his gaze on her. "Just what do you think you were doing, disturbing my bridge and laying hands on my bridge crew? You know better then that." "I offer no excuse sir." Eva seemed to have gotten her emotions under control and was acting much more like her usual self. "It was unprofessional and I stand ready to face disciplinary action." "Perhaps..." he said. He turned his gaze to Stolev. "I am assuming from your behavior on the bridge that you would not wish to press charges. If this assumption is at all incorrect, say so now." Sasha had been staring straight ahead, trying not to let the implications of Eva's pregnancy overwhelm him, but he turned his head to look at Sevant with a surprised look. "Charges? No, of course not, sir," he replied. "Very well." Sevant said. "Then we shall leave today's events as they are, with a stern warning -never- to let it happen again." His gaze rested on his MCO again, and then with a sigh and a small head-shake he turned his chair and sat down. "And you both put us in a hell of a fix," he eventually said. "My Chief of Security and my Chief of Marines, and now my Chief of Marines is in a position where it will be very difficult to put her in the line of fire... all this in a time of war. Your timing, gentlemen, is atrocious," he concluded as he drummed his fingers on the desk. "Permission to speak freely, sir?" asked Sasha. (reply Sevant -- assuming yes) Sasha took a breath and cast a brief sidelong glance at Eva, before looking back at Sevant. "Sir, I think I can safely say that this is not something that either of us planned. I can certainly say that I never expected... this." He felt his cheeks coloring slightly as he thought about all that happening in his life over the past couple of weeks, none of which could have been expected as recently as a month ago. ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Bridge Commander Trevan West-07:40) ==================================== "Bridge to Sickbay, What is the status of the crew inoculations?" The Doctors voice came in loud and clear. =/\=Most of the crew have been inoculated and I'm still working on administering it to some of the others.=/\= "Good to hear Doctor, please get the rest inoculated by the end of the day. We can't afford to waste any time on trivial matters. As you well know, this takes top priority." Trevan hoped his emotion from the past evening and the events on the Bridge just now did not come through in his voice. =/\=Aye sir, I'll have it finished by the end of my shift. Mackenzie out.=/\= ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0741) ==================================== Brian sat at a bar stool, sipping a tall glass of orange juice. He was sitting alone, but was sitting alone, listening to the various conversations of the crew. Just making small talk, but their tone and what they choose to talk about gave clues to crew morale. He took another drink of the orange juice. Ten Forward was fairly empty, a few people in for breakfast. Brian tuned his ears in, listening to various conversations. "...well, I found the crew was pretty intense," said a Bolian officer. "Did you see the parrises squares match last night? I told you to watch for that new-..." said a Bajoran officer. "...holonovel is so dumb. When they steal Spock's brain I almost quit but I wanted-..." said a female human officer. ~Well... nothing out of the ordinary.~ Brian thought, or at least assumed. He'd never been on a ship in wartime with low morale, but assumed they wouldn't talk about sports, holonovels and past ship assignments. Rogers stood up and finished his orange juice. He nodded to the bartender on the way out and headed to his office for a day of counseling. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0742) ==================================== "Sir, I think I can safely say that this is not something that either of us planned. I can certainly say that I never expected... this," Sasha said, after a glance in her direction. Eva shifted position in her chair, sitting up straight looking straight ahead. "We can still complete our mission," Eva said, trying not to look at Sasha. "It won't begin to show, physically, for at least a month or more. That's assuming I," She paused briefly and took a deep breath before continuing. "Assuming I don't decide to terminate the pregnancy." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0742) ==================================== "Permission to speak freely, sir?" Sevant folded his hands together and nodded. The TAC/SC looked at the MCO for a moment, then back again. "Sir, I think I can safely say that this is not something that either of us planned. I can certainly say that I never expected... this." The man turned red, perhaps thinking about it all. Sevant wondered briefly if it was pleasure, embarrassment or some other emotion. Eva chimed in with, "We can still complete our mission, It won't begin to show, physically, for at least a month or more. That's assuming I," She paused briefly and took a deep breath before continuing. "Assuming I don't decide to terminate the pregnancy." Sevant tapped his fingertips together, "I won't say that wouldn't make the war easier on us," he said quietly. "But I am not so cold as to say it would be the best thing to do either, I've held my own children in my hands, there is nothing like it." He paused, "Nor am I a counselor. You will speak to one before you do anything irrevocable, understood Colonel?" (reply: Straton) He closed his eyes, "Child or not, you will be needed in the upcoming mission." Oh, how it galled him to say that, putting a pregnant woman went against all his emotions... but it was logic that lead him through this now. "And whatever the plans; you, commander, will not be on the same team as her." He looked over at Stolev, "I can't have you pole-axed when our lives hang in the balance." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - TAC/SC Stolev - Day 2 - 0743) ==================================== "Sir, I think I can safely say that this is not something that either of us planned. I can certainly say that I never expected... this." Eva chimed in with, "We can still complete our mission, It won't begin to show, physically, for at least a month or more. That's assuming I," She paused briefly and took a deep breath before continuing. "Assuming I don't decide to terminate the pregnancy." Sasha continued to stare straight ahead, but he felt as if he'd just been kicked in the stomach. He of course understood from a rational and practical point of view that terminating the pregnancy would not be an unreasonable course of action. However, he also felt stung by Eva's implication that she would decide whether or not to terminate the pregnancy, without any input from him or anyone else. While he knew that the choice of what to do with her own body was ultimately hers, he had hoped to at least be part of the conversation. Sevant tapped his fingertips together. "I won't say that wouldn't make the war easier on us," he said quietly, "but I am not so cold as to say it would be the best thing to do either. I've held my own children in my hands, there is nothing like it." He paused. "Nor am I a counselor. You will speak to one before you do anything irrevocable, understood Colonel?" (reply Straton) He closed his eyes, "Child or not, you will be needed in the upcoming mission. And whatever the plans; you, commander, will not be on the same team as her." He looked over at Stolev. "I can't have you pole-axed when our lives hang in the balance." This comment served to add indignity to the laundry list of other emotions flowing through Sasha as he sat at attention before his CO. How dare Sevant forbid him from going with her on possibly the most dangerous away mission she's ever faced? How dare he prevent him from protecting her and their unborn child? He opened his mouth to protest, then his sense of duty won out and he simply said, "understood, sir." However, he was unsettled by the violence of his unspoken emotions, and considered that Eva was probably not the only one who ought to speak to the counselor. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, MCO, Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0743) ==================================== Sevant tapped his fingertips together, "I won't say that wouldn't make the war easier on us," he said quietly. "But I am not so cold as to say it would be the best thing to do either, I've held my own children in my hands, there is nothing like it." He paused, "Nor am I a counselor. You will speak to one before you do anything irrevocable, understood Colonel?" Eva simply nodded. She had already thought of talking with Domini and not because she was a counselor. Domini had stood at Eva's side as they faced the psi-ders. She had come along to help rescue Sevant, at Eva's request. Domini proven herself more than a counselor. She was a friend and trusted confidant, and right now Eva needed her support. "Child or not, you will be needed in the upcoming mission," Sevant continued, "And whatever the plans; you, commander, will not be on the same team as her." He looked over at Stolev, "I can't have you pole-axed when our lives hang in the balance." "Understood, sir," Sasha said, but Eva could feel the emotions churning within him, barely held in check. She turned and looked at him, staring straight ahead. She cocked her head to one side and looked at him. After a moment, she reached out and gently put her hand on his cheek and turned his head so that he was looking at her. "You want to protect me," She said softly, "I understand, but don't forget what I am. I am a marine. I can take care of myself. The Captain is right. You can't be worrying about me, and I can't be worrying about you. Each of us must be focused on the mission, or neither of us will survive it." (Reply Stolev) "Captain," Eva said, turning to look at Sevant, "the Commander and I have a lot to discuss. If we are finished here, can we have some time in private?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Bridge, Captain Grailik, 0743) ==================================== Grailik stepped onto the Bridge, fresh mug of coffee in one hand and a PADD in the other. He was working on the strike team to infiltrate the enemy base once it was located. A long student of observation, Grailik immediately noticed that something had happened. It still showed in the way people where moving about the bridge. Some people kept stealing looks at the Ready Room doors and would whisper to their neighbor. It was a little unsettling. Grailik took a sip of his coffee as he nodded a greeting to Commander West, who was sitting in the command chair, as he started to walk slowly around the Bridge. After one circuit around the bridge, Grailik stepped down to the command deck and took a seat next to West. "So," Grailik said, taking another sip of his coffee, "What's got everyone stirred up this morning and where is Captain Sevant?" (Reply West) (NRPG: Going to assume that West fills Grailik in on what happened, if not then disregard the rest of this.) Grailik choked on his coffee and nearly spit it back up in West face. He turned away from West putting his hand over his mouth. "Your joking," Grailik said, cleaning the coffee off his chin, even though he knew West wasn't. He now looked at the Ready Room doors. (Reply West) "How long have they been in there?" Grailik asked, nodding toward the Ready Room doors. His mind was racing with the implications and complications this would cause to the mission. He took a deep breath and leaned back in his chair. "Wonderful, just bloody wonderful," He said, to no one in particular, setting down his coffee. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - TAC/SC Stolev - Day 2 - 0744) ==================================== Sasha continued to stare straight ahead, but he was aware that Eva had turned to look at him, and he felt her reaching out to him even before he felt her hand on his cheek. A mere two weeks ago, he never could have imagined that he would be able to sense or feel such things. Now, he couldn't imagine not being able to. He met her gaze with his as she turned his head to face her. "You want to protect me," she said softly. "I understand, but don't forget what I am. I am a marine. I can take care of myself. The Captain is right. You can't be worrying about me, and I can't be worrying about you. Each of us must be focused on the mission, or neither of us will survive it." Sasha nodded, trying to blink away the tears that were suddenly beginning to form at the corners of his eyes. "I know that," he replied softly, trying to keep his voice from breaking. "Of course. But it doesn't mean I have to like it. And it doesn't mean that I don't feel that need to protect you, even though I know full well that you can protect yourself better than I ever could." He took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. "However, our Captain's ready room is probably not the best place for us to talk about this, particuarly," he added with a sidelong glance at Sevant, "since I just expressed my unhappiness with his orders in front of him." He turned to look at Sevant. "My apologies, sir. It won't happen again." (reply Sevant) "Captain," Eva said, turning to look at Sevant as well, "the Commander and I have a lot to discuss. If we are finished here, can we have some time in private?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Bridge, Commander Trevan West, 0744) ==================================== "So," Grailik said, taking another sip of his coffee, "What's got everyone stirred up this morning and where is Captain Sevant?" Trevan filled his esteemed colleague in on the events that transpired. Grailik choked on his coffee and nearly spit it back up in West face. He turned away from West putting his hand over his mouth. "Your joking," Grailik said, cleaning the coffee off his chin. Trevan just shook his head with a deadpan face, "I wish I wasn't sir." "How long have they been in there?" Grailik asked, nodding toward the Ready Room doors. "Just about ten minutes sir, but to tell the truth, I haven't been paying attention to it. However, if I didn't know the Captain so well I'd say he was having a warp core breach in his head." "Wonderful, just bloody wonderful," He said, to no one in particular, setting down his coffee. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0746) ==================================== Sevant had wisely remained silent as Eva and Sasha had spoken, there were times that a Captain's place was to do no more then give his officers a chance to work out their own issues, no order would speed this issue up... the only thing he'd be able to do is order them to deal with it, and such would be useless and detrimental in this situation. "...However, our Captain's ready room is probably not the best place for us to talk about this, particularly," he added with a sidelong glance at Sevant, "since I just expressed my unhappiness with his orders in front of him." He turned to look at Sevant. "My apologies, sir. It won't happen again." Sevant waved the issue away for the time being, it was a morning for shocks apparently, taking issue with it wouldn't do any good at this point. "Captain, the Commander and I have a lot to discuss. If we are finished here, can we have some time in private?" The Captain nodded, "You both are off duty, for now. See the counselor if you must. I expect you will make up whatever work is left on a later shift, if necessary. Dismissed." (reply: both of you) He waited until the doors had closed and leaned back in his chair, "And good luck." He breathed as he brought a hand up and massaged his nose. This was -not- a good situation. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Eva's Personal Quarters - TAC/SC Aleksander Stolev & Lt. Colonel Eva Straton - Day 2 - 0753) ==================================== They had both been silent, absorbed in their own thoughts, during the short lift ride and walk from the bridge to Eva's quarters. Sasha's mind was whirring, trying to sort out all of his conflicting emotions, but he kept coming to one conclusion. He had been wondering over the past week if this was just a fling, one of those spontaneous romances that tends to crop up among colleagues on the brink of a war one or both may well not return from, or if it was something more. The strength of his emotions, especially in his reaction to Sevant's orders that they be on separate away teams, had given him his answer. Eva hadn't even given it any thought till they walked through the doors. She turned around as the doors closed behind Sasha, and they were finally alone. "I'm sorry," was all she could think to say as she looked down and put her hand over her stomach. Sasha took a step towards her and tentatively reached out to place his hand over hers. "You don't have to be sorry, Eva. As we say on Earth, it takes two to tango. We're both equally responsible for this. And, I hope, we can both be equally responsible for what happens from here on." Eva shook her head. "We are in the middle of war," she said, turning away. "This is no time for me to consider a career change. I'm a soldier. Always have been. I've never even considered having children, let alone a family. Never even considered it a possibility and now this." She felt the emotions boiling up inside her again. She closed her eyes and tried to hold back the tears. "Besides, what kind of mother would I be? I'm good at leading marines into battle, not trying to raise....twins." "Twins?" Sasha blinked with surprise, then shook his head. "Well, anyway... no one is saying that you have to change your career. No one is even..." He took a breath and then went on, trying to keep his voice steady. "No one is even saying you have to keep them." Eva was silent for several seconds. She knew that terminating the pregnancy was the logical thing to do, given their current situation. Fighting a war, being on the front lines, and her a grunt by profession. Why then couldn't she convince herself that it was the right thing to do? She fell into a chair and covered her face with her hands. "I don't know what to do," she said, as she began to cry again. Sasha grabbed a foot stool and pulled it up next to Eva's chair. He sat facing her and took her hands in his. "No one ever does, I think, when confronted with this situation." He looked into her eyes, and felt his own tears welling up again as he watched hers roll gently down her cheek. "I don't know what to do either. But what I do know is this: whatever you do, you won't do it alone. If you decide to keep them, I will be the best father that I can be. And if you decide otherwise, I will be right there with you, as much as I can, before, during, and after. Because either way doesn't change the fact that I'm in love with you, Eva. As inconvenient as it may be for both of us," he added with a sad smile. "I know you are," Eva said, looking up at him. "Damn you. We were just suppose to be friends. That's all I ever intended. I never wanted you to fall in love with me, and....I never....I never expected to fall in love with you. Damn you!" She leaned forward, threw her arms around him and cried on his shoulder. "When did we go past being just friends?" Sasha smiled as he held Eva in his arms. "I don't know about you, but for me, I think it was sometime during our first date, when we were walking along the beach. I was just afraid to admit it to myself until now." He gently grasped her shoulders and pulled her back so he could look into her eyes. "And if you decide to keep the baby... babies... I have no doubt that you'll be a wonderful mother. You are passionate, you are caring, you have excelled at everything you have set your mind to... and you would certainly be able to protect them. I know it's hard to think that when you don't even know what you'd be getting yourself into. I don't know what we'd be getting ourselves into any more than you. All I know is, don't let whatever decision you make be driven by fear of the unknown. That's all I ask." "When have you known me to make a decision driven by fear?" she said, wiping the tears from her face and giving him a stern look. She sat back in the chair, still wiping her face. "It's a lot to think about. Keeping them, or not. And now, the entire ship probably knows. I just acted. Didn't even think about what I was doing. I humiliated myself in the middle of the bridge." She slammed her fist down onto the arm chair. "God, I was a fool!" Sasha shrugged. "We all do foolish things at times, especially when we get such shocking news. I probably wasn't much better; I didn't know what to do either. But yes, I'd say that if the entire ship doesn't know by now, they will soon." He ran a hand over his close-cropped head. "Not that I've ever known you to give a damn what anyone else thinks of you," he added with a lopsided smile. "So why start now?" "You're right, but it will be perceived as a weakness," she said, "or at least by some people it will be perceived as a weakness. I don't like being perceived as weak. Suppose I will just have to....correct them, if they do something stupid. You should get back to the bridge. We can talk more later. I need to talk with Domini. Try and work this through." Sasha winced involuntarily as he imagined just how Eva might "correct" whoever made the mistake of implying weakness on her part. "Hopefully no one will be so foolish," he replied as he stood up slowly. "You know where to find me if you need to." She stood up as well to show him out, and just before they reached the door, he turned and gave her a hug. "Whatever you decide, I'll support you," he said softly into her ear. Eva returned the hug and nodded, not wanting him to go, but knowing she needed to be alone. She stepped back, disengaging herself from him, and gave him a weak smile. "We'll talk later," she said softly. Sasha returned her smile and took a small step backwards, just enough to trigger the door to open. He reluctantly turned and walked out into the corridor, where he turned back and met her gaze, holding it until the door slid shut between them. ==================================== (USS Boudicca, Sickbay, Triage Chief, Doctor Mor'rel, 0842) ==================================== Mor'rel stared at the results in front of him. He'd spent a good deal of his time getting the psi blocking drug ready for transferrance, especially now that Mackenzie seemed to be busy with Straton. He shook his head slightly. A pregnancy while flying into battle was illogical. Pregnancies for front line fighters were similarly illogical. Mor'rel knew that Betazoids were generally emotional beings, but he had grown to have a grudging respect for Major Straton. Despite the fact she was emotional, mostly towards violence, there appeared to be a logical approach to what she did in most cases... especially those pertaining to battle. Mor'rel suddenly found his image shattered. There was a good deal he did not understand about Betazoid, or human, behaviour. Mor'rel turned to Doctor Mackenzie, "Pardon me. There are things I do not understand about Major Straton's current predicament." (Reply Mackenzie) "There are extremely sophisticated systems to prevent pregnancies. Logically this would be a poor time to become impregnated. Why would an intelligent woman such as Major Straton allow herself to be parturient when she is integral to the upcoming battle?" asked Mor'rel. He was more than aware that he was showing both his youth and his lack of experience in these matters, but curiousity was winning out. He felt a strong need to understand the behaviour of emotional species. (Reply Mackenzie) Mor'rel looked at her for a moment. "You must admit that this is a poor time for impregnation. Would it not be logical to terminate the pregnancy rather than subject children to battlefield trauma? Does it not make more logical sense not to bring a child into the world we currently find ourselves in? Why does dilation and evacuation of the fetus not come as a logical alternative?" Mor'rel knew he was asking questions rapid fire and desired not to make Mackenzie uncomfortable, but in truth he did not understand and was requiring answers. He hoped that Doctor Mackenzie would see this as an attempt to better understand species' emotional responses to situations, thus making him a better doctor. ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Sickbay-CMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-08:43) ==================================== Stretching in her chair, Kaitlyn had finally finished the report to Sevant and was ready to send it off. Before doing so however, she got up to head to replicator for a cup of coffee when Mor'rel stopped her. He had a rather perplexed look on his face, if you could call it that. Sometimes vulcan's were rather hard to read in that they exibited less amounts of facial expressions than humans did. "Pardon me. There are things I do not understand about Major Straton's current predicament." Cocking her head to the side, she asked, "Such as what?" This would be their first real held conversation together that so far hadn't resided about 'work.' Though it did resemble it since the topic was medical, she felt he was more or less questioning the ethics of the timing. "There are extremely sophisticated systems to prevent pregnancies. Logically this would be a poor time to become impregnated. Why would an intelligent woman such as Major Straton allow herself to be parturient when she is integral to the upcoming battle?" asked Mor'rel. Pausing, Kaitlyn knew it probably took a lot for Mor'rel to even be asking her this. She thought for a moment, then responded. "Sometimes....well, there are a lot of reasons. Not the same medications to prevent pregnancies work in all species as you know; some take to them better than others." She almost felt as if a child were asking her the question about where babies come from. Even though she still didn't know Mor'rel well enough to predict his moods, she somehow felt more comfortable speaking to him about it though. "On the other hand, sometimes one can miss or skip their injections, therefore making it obvious to know how they got pregnant." Taking a breath, she then continued. "As far as Major Straton goes though.....she obviously didn't intend on this happening from her reaction this morning." "You must admit that this is a poor time for impregnation. Would it not be logical to terminate the pregnancy rather than subject children to battlefield trauma? Does it not make more logical sense not to bring a child into the world we currently find ourselves in? Why does dilation and evacuation of the fetus not come as a logical alternative?" Shaking her head in agreement, she said, "Yes, I will admit that this is not the greatest time to be pregnant or having children onboard altogether for that matter.....at least not when we're about to go to war." Kaitlyn suddenly felt as if she were being put on the spot as they stood in the middle of sickbay discussing the matter at hand. Giving her head a nod in the direction of the empty triage room, she took a seat and offered him one as well. "As far as terminating the pregnancy goes...." Memories came flooding back to Kaitlyn as she remembered the away mission she once took part in. People tortured her, experimented on her and impregnated her with their technologies and DNA. Her body was forced through the physical process of having to undergo pregnancy, only she felt a hollowed out shell as there was no fetus present. Feeling the maternal instinct only made things worse, and so therefore she was able to put herself in a mother's shoes, though she had no children of her own. "It's sometimes hard to explain. Some mothers feel the beginning of the materal bonding as soon as they hear the news. Others....well, sometimes it takes others having to literally hold their baby before they can even begin to bond with it. So when it comes to terminating pregnancies, there are a lot of moral issues to discuss with the parents. Mostly emotional issues. From your point of view, I could see the logical side. If the choice weren't based on emotional response, Straton would probably have asked me to do it right then and there." Kaitlyn raised an eyebrow, and was hoping to appeal to both his curiosity and logical vulcan side. "However, sometimes the timing can play tricks. Timing is everything, and yes I will agree that right now it doesn't seem like the best thing in the world. But...I believe that there are reasons for why things happen, you know, aside from the obvious logical conclusions of natural biology." <> "As a matter of fact, I still need to deliver my report to the Captain. Who knows what Straton will decide? Either way, it's her choice." Pausing, she looked up and asked, "Is there anything else I can help you understand?" ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0907) ==================================== Sevant shook his head as he looked at some of the last communications they would get before entering the battle-zone. He licked his lips and tapped his badge, "Counselor Rogers to the Ready Room." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Corridor - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0910) ==================================== Brian was strolling back to his office after a morning game of hockey in the holodeck when Captain Sevant's voice filled his ears. =/\= Counselor Rogers to the Ready Room, =/\= he said. Brian tapped his comm badge. "Aye, sir. On my way," Brian said before changing his course and heading for the nearest turbolift. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0913) ==================================== On the way to the ready room, a thousand different ideas when through Brian's mind. At first, he assumed he had done something good, however, later, he was worried and felt that perhaps he was going to be in trouble for something. He arrived and saw Captain Sevant sitting at his desk. Brian stood before the desk and moved to attention. "Lt. Rogers, reporting has requested, sir," Brian said in his attention voice. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0913) ==================================== "Lt. Rogers, reporting has requested, sir," Sevant, still reading fleet messages and last minute orders from their burst-transmission earlier, waved him to a seat. After a few moments he touched the screen and let it fold back into his desk, leaving him free to turn and face the Lieutenant. "Mr Rogers." The Captain said after a moment. "You have been reassigned, you have two hours in order to pack your belongings and take a type-9 to rendezvous with the resupply fleet we've left behind. Any longer and we can't guarantee you'll arrive safely." He picked up a PADD with the orders, "You will stay with them until you come to these coordinates. The rest of your orders are sealed for the next twenty-four hours." (reply: Couns) He picked up one more small box that he'd had replicated after calling for the Counselor. "There is one more item to deal with, before you leave." He said. He pushed the small container across his desk towards Rogers. "You have been promoted to full Lieutenant. Congratulations, Counselor." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - COUNS - Lt. (JG) Brian Rogers - 0915) ==================================== Brian watched silenced has Sevant waved him to a chair. Brian complied, and moved so quickly he almost tripped over his feet, however, it didn't appear Sevant noticed, or at least, ignored it. Finally, Sevant turned up and looked at Rogers. "Mr Rogers, You have been reassigned, you have two hours in order to pack your belongings and take a type-9 to rendezvous with the resupply fleet we've left behind. Any longer and we can't guarantee you'll arrive safely. You will stay with them until you come to these coordinates. The rest of your orders are sealed for the next twenty-four hours," Sevant said. Brian almost fell in shock onto the floor. He had only been on the Boudicca for three weeks. He hoped to join her command staff. However, it appears his wasn't so luckily. "Aye, sir," Brian said, somewhat dejected, ~A counselor on a warship, what was I thinking,~ Brian thought. Then, before Brian could stand up, the captain handed him a small container. "There is one more item to deal with, before you leave. You have been promoted to full Lieutenant. Congratulations, Counselor," Brian opened the small box and found a gold pip. Brian was speechless. "Thank you, sir," Brian fumbled quickly and placed his gold pip on his collar, almost forgetting to remove the old black one. After he was finished, he stood and took the PADD that contained his sealed orders. "Thank you, sir. Its been a pleasure to serve under you, no matter how short a time," Brian said. (reply Sevant) After that, Brian turned quickly and headed out the door and headed directly to the turbolift. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - Capt Sevant - 0917) ==================================== "Thank you, sir," Sevant folded his hands as the new Lieutenant places his pip on himself and spared a rare, small smile once it was done. "Thank you, sir. Its been a pleasure to serve under you, no matter how short a time," Sevant stood and offered his hand, "Indeed, it has been a pleasure, Mr Rogers. God speed on your way." (reply: if desired) Sevant watched the young officer go with a touch of sadness, the man had absolutely no idea what he was about to step into. It was within the realm of possibility that he wouldn’t even survive long enough to meet the resupply fleet, this wasn’t a safe area. He shook his head and sat back down again. He had work to do yet, the day had only begun. ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Strategic Operations - COUNS - Lt. Brian Rogers - 0922) ==================================== Not wanting to waste any of his two hours, Brian had a few good byes to say to some old friends. He strolled into the StratOps center and saw his old commanding officer, Lt. Commander Casely, standing over a display. Brian walked over to him. "Commander Casely," (reply Casely) "I just wanted to say, thank you, sir. I've been promoted and I'm being shipped off somewhere. Sealed orders. You've really been a mentor of sorts, and I just wanted to thank you for all the help you've given me," Brian said, in a very dear tone of a voice, almost on the verge of tearing up. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ End of Compile ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~