~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Start of Compile, Part 3 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: Dream of the Past, Days 2 - 4 Stardates: 2406.10.11 - 2406.10.14 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ List of Headers: (USS Boudicca - Captain's Quarters - Capt Caladryll Sevant - 0130) - Day 2 -(Dreamscape - ? - Sevant - Time has no meaning) (USS Boudicca - Captain's Quarters - Capt Caladryll Sevant - 0400) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Deck 3, OPS quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx -0640) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – crew quarters, OPS quarters – 0830) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Turbolift – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0903) - Day 2 (USS BOUDICCA-BRIDGE- TURBO LIFT- ENSIGN (JG) JOHN FREDERICKS - 09:05) - Day 2 (USS BOUDICCA-BRIDGE-TACTICAL STATION- ESIGN (JG) FREDERICKS-0930) - Day 2 (USS Boddicca-Bridge- TAC/SC Ensign Ryko Skylynx-0930) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Holodeck 2– OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/Sc Ensign Skylynx - 1758) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Ensign Skylynx quarters –OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/Sc Ensign Skylynx - 2220) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Main engineering- ACSO- Ensign Vegra Gretud - 2220) - Day 2 USS Boudicca – Main engineering- ACSO- Ensign Vegra Gretud - 2220) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Main engineering- ACSO- Ensign Vegra Gretud - 2220) - Day 2 (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0730) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – TAC/SC - 0730) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0732) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0732) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 0735) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca – crew quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 1005) - Day 3 (Boudicca - COUNS Office - Dr. Domini Alizara & CSO/2O Dr. Kyle Morie Rin - 16:13) - Day 3 (Boudicca - COUNS Office - Dr. Domini Alizara & CSO/2O Dr. Kyle Morie Rin - 16:15) - Day 3 (Boudicca - COUNS Office - Dr. Domini Alizara & CSO/2O Dr. Kyle Morie Rin - 16:17) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 2000) - Day 3 (USS Boudicca - Crew Quarters - OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 0630) - Day 4 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: Dream of the Past, Day 2 Stardates: 2406.10.11 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Captain's Quarters - Capt Caladryll Sevant - 0130) ==================================== Sevant looked out his window at the stars, flashing by silently in Real-Space. They were still a few hours from the subspace river; a branch of it, a small one, came near the yards. The Boudicca could have been in it by now, but Sevant had chosen to take it slow at Warp 5 so that Engineering could have a chance to work out bugs, this was a shake-down cruise after all, there was no reason to push. The would be in and out of the river within seven hours, their first mapping zone was only a few days away from Geneva, mere hours down the river. "La rêve des étoiles" Sevant murmured quietly to himself. The Dream of Stars - it was a French sentence that described a philosophical ideal taught in the first year at the Academy, the drive to seek out the celestial bodies and the mysteries they contained. That dream was long since still-born for Sevant, it had died with his family not so long ago on the Nimitz, while he was hopeless to prevent it on a planet filled with enticements and mystery. He was now devoted to the defense of his ideals, if he couldn't live in peace with his family, then he would wage bloody war on those that would rip apart all he had left. There hadn't been a choice when LoDona had presented his case, Sevant had willingly become one of his troopers from the time he was sure LoDona was right. The Dream of Stars. The Dream was dead. He turned away from the window, there was nothing there he wanted to see. The drive to visit the great unknown was lost to him, they no longer inspired him. It had been a long day, and they were not at battle-alert. On the other hand, Sevant was not at all tired, being a half-vulcan meant he had to sleep, but not nearly as much as the average human. A lot of the time he could easily get by simply by meditating in Vulcan fashion. The problem was, he hadn't been able to find his quiet 'spot' in a very long time. Once, long ago, his quiet area in his mind had been a representation of his own office during peace. Then, without conscious thought, it had become the 'nexus' area that he and his family had lived for so many years. After they had left, and that nexus was denied them, he would retreat into his mind and find it again, complete with happy family. Then, his family had been murdered, and the first time he had retreated to mediate and found that they were dead even in his peaceful spot, he had been shattered. There had been no denying the truth that they were gone, and he had found no peace there. Yet as much as he tried, he could not bring himself to imagine any other place, his mind refused to cooperate and he would continuously be brought to his memories of that Island paradise. His house was there, the breeze on his imaginary face was warm and filled with water. Even T'loren's horse was still in the small stable that he himself had built. Yet, no sounds of children echoed on the breeze, only long-dead hints of Vicki's perfume had he been able to find. His imaginary paradise had died along with his dreams. Sevant shook his head out of his revelry and sat down next to the bed. He tried touching on logic to calm his mind, then with a deep breath submerged himself into his own unconscious, trying yet again to find a new place to 'rest' while he meditated... (Dreamscape - ? - Sevant - Time has no meaning) ... and once again, he failed. Sevant opened his eyes and looked around, his face a tight mask of rigidly controlled pain as the moist tropical breeze flowed over him. With infinite patience he noticed that his mental self was not wearing a uniform, but the same clothing he had taken to wearing on the island... a set of breeches and a small open vest, and he went barefoot as always. The sand felt warm, grainy, between his toes... just as he remembered it. The sounds of the waterfall were close, he didn't have to turn to know that he was standing beside it, with his back to it facing the ocean. The horse, which could get out of the pen at will (that had always irked Sevant, an engineer he wasn't) walked out of the gate and up to him, giving his neck a nuzzle. Sevant reached up and wrapped an arm around the horses neck by habit, "Just us, Ambrose." Sevant whispered, mostly to himself. "It's just us." He gave Ambrose another pat and began walking down the well-worn paths of his former Island home, the rocks were smooth and sun-warmed, they felt as good on his feet as he remembered. Still, nothing here was as bright as it had been in the nexus, and the blessed forgetfulness didn't exist either. He paused at the entrance to their house, a largish sized hut that always seemed to be bigger on the inside then it looked. The vision was complete enough that there was even a pile of broken bamboo sticks off to one side, the failed remains of his efforts to create aesthetically pleasing plumbing for the hut. Slowly he rambled on, letting his feet carry him on the long remembered path down to the beach. After not to many minutes he was there, feet dug into the sand and arms pinned behind him as the breeze carried soft scents of salt off the breakers, the same breeze that billowed his vest. This was his time of relaxation, and if he couldn't change his minds locale, then this was where he could spend it, looking out at the smooth waters of the bay. Dolphins patrolled the break line of the outer reefs, playfully jumping and dodging each other in the bright morning sunshine. Sevant, supposedly very much alone in this mind-scape of his, suddenly felt arms go around his waist. He stiffened, so surprised that he was, and looked down. There was only one person in the universe who had ever done that to him, but that wasn't possible! Since the murder, he hadn't been able to find even memories of them, not that they ever had been part of his quiet place. Though he wasn't 'real' here, he trembled as he turned, and found himself face-to-face with the one person in the world he would have given his soul to see again. Her eyes were bright, and her smile quirked just as he last remembered it. Longing, fear, confusion, everything echoed through his thoughts all at once, leaving him utterly incapable of saying a single word, or moving a muscle. Finally, after many long tortured moments, he had to close his eyes. "You can't be here," he finally said. "You are long dead, your spirit long gone." "Funny you should mention that," she said after a few long moments. "Remember it was me who was the vessel for your own katra, so many years ago." He opened his eyes and looked at her, she looked much younger then she had when she was gone, her face had none of the wrinkles she had just been starting to develop at the time of her death. She was fresher, more vigorous, she looked like she did when he had only just married her. His mouth opened but nothing came out, his voice (even if it was only mental) refused to sound... his mind refused to formulate any words into coherent sentences. She stopped him anyway and put a finger to his lips, forestalling anything he could have said anyway. It was a move so like her that he was shocked into silence. "No, say nothing." she said in a much more serious tone, "I am aware of what has happened, I am only a glimmer, a spectre, a shade of what once was. I am what is left, what rubbed off on you when your katra was transferred from me, back to you. Until this moment your mind was not quiet enough for me to break through, all I could do was force your restive mind into this spot time after time until you accepted it enough to let down some of your barriers of sorrow." Sevant's mind twirled as he considered her words. A taint.. what he was seeing was a taint from when she carried his soul. She had carried it for months, not even a Mind-Lord could have purged it of all her taint. When she was alive, with the bond they had shared, that taint would have been utterly unnoticeable. With her dead, the bond removed and smoothed... yes, it made a sick kind of sense to him. It was no wonder he could not move on. Vicki smiled, radiant and young, "You begin to see, you begin to finally work out what has been going on. I'm pleased by that, Caladryll Sevant, because up until now you have been a true and complete idiot. I appreciate a bit of mourning for me, and for the children, but you do no one any good by being soul-dead." She kept her finger on his lips, forestalling any speaking, "And this will not be enough to convince you otherwise. Knowing what you know now, you can bury my memory deeper and make sure it doesn't interfere with you as much any longer. And, if you are calm of mind, you can always come back here and work through your thoughts. I am no longer with you my Husband, but in other ways I shall always be with you more surely then most are graced with. You will live on, you will find another, and you will make of your life what you must." "No," he breathed harshly, "None can take the place that you had filled in my heart." "No one will take my place, Husband." she agreed, "But someone will supplant me in time. And don't bother arguing with me, you never once succeeded in all of our years, you most certainly won't win against a shadow who has nothing but time on her hands." The look she gave him was so dead-panned, and LIKE her, that he crumpled. "Now go, my love." she said gently as her image faded. "Go and think, your time here has passed and you've much to work through." His head came up, and in a moment of panic he reached out and tried to grab her, to keep her in place. Her chuckle echoed through his head as she completely faded away, "Go and know my love continues inside you, as long as you remember me." ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Captain's Quarters - Capt Caladryll Sevant - 0400) ==================================== Sevant opened his eyes with a start and turned his head from side to side. He was, as he always had been, alone. He sat shocked for many long moments, then his face crumpled and he hid his head in his hands. "Vicki," he breathed, "My love, you shall never be forgotten. Not for as long as fate keeps memory or love endures." ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Deck 3 crew quarters, OPS quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 0640) ==================================== Ryko woke up feeling more comfortable than he had on the holodeck the previous day. He looked down and to his left. Yalta was still asleep, resting against him again. He lay for a few seconds, stroking her hair, gently so she wouldn't wake. He thought for a few seconds and had an Idea. She would no doubt be hungry when she woke. Slowly and carefully, Ryko rested Yalta's head against the pillows of the bed and got out, dressed in only a towel, he made his way to the replicator. He stepped over to the console and spoke quietly, he still wasn't fully awake. "Computer, one stack of pancakes, with banana topping," he said. The food materialised on a small tray. He took the tray out of the replicator bay and had a notion. "Also, one daffodil, in a small glass vase," Ryko said. The decorative flower instantly appeared and he added it to the plate already on the tray. He walked into the bedroom and knelt by the bed. Yalta had rolled over and she was facing the small bedside cabinet. "Wake up, sleeping beauty," Ryko said, wafting the smell of the pancakes in front of her. Yalta was dreaming, dreaming that she was sleeping against Sky in the forest they had left behind in the holodeck. She felt so good in there, she didn't want to leave. Then there was a voice, first, and another, and one louder that was saying wake up, sleeping beauty. Her eyes blink a couple of times and she saw Sky and then she look at breakfast that he brought. “That smell delishious... I'm so hungry!” She lift herself up and gave him a kiss before sitting on the bed and take the tray to put in front of her and leaving some room for Sky to sit beside her. Ryko sat on the bed next to her and simply watched, smiling as she began to eat. "How are they?" He asked, inhaling some of the delicious scent. “They are delicious... I like banana. Do you want some?” She smiled. Ryko sat up and leaned over her shoulder a little. He sniffed the pancakes. "Yes, please," he said, lightly resting his chin on her shoulder and laughing a little. Yalta poke a couple of pieces with in the middle a piece of banana and presented the fourk to him. Ryko bit the pancake from the fork and chewed. It tasted great. "Mm," he said as he swallowed the pancake. "Those are good," he said, as he gave her a peck on the cheek and lay back again. “You are not hungry? I'm not going to be able to eat the entire thing.” Ryko sat up again. He was feeling very cheerful. "Well, I'll have what you can't finish," he said, pinching one pancake off the stack. "Or we could share," he smiled as he ate the pancake. “I like the idea of... sharing!” She smiled and took a bit off her fourk. "Good, cause so do I," Ryko said, nabbing another pancake. He smiled and watched as Yalta used her fork, and here he was using his hands. He couldn't help laughing. "look at me, I'm covered in banana syrup," Ryko said, licking the stuff off his fingers. “Oh my.!” She look at him with a corner smile. "It's okay," Ryko said, still sniggering a little. "You know what?" He said, as he finished removing the syrup, "I think I'd best get a fork," he said. He smiled and got up to get one. He returned seconds later and sat down again. "Now, where was I?" he said, and tucked into breakfast. Yalta who was full, observed him eat, he was just has angry as she was.” She lay back on the bed and stretch. “We really went all out yesterday... I wonder what today will be like.” Ryko finished the last pancake and looked at her. "That depends on how much time we have until we go on duty," he said, smiling at her in that mischievous way as he lay back himself. “Well, today, I get to start to work at 0900 hrs... right up to 1800 hrs. And you?” She turn toward Sky and putting her arms around him laying her head on his chest. Ryko put his arm around her and stroked her arm. He kissed her head. "Well, I go on active duty whenever I tell John that he isn't on active duty," Ryko said. "Usuallty around 0915, then I'm on the bridge till 1800," he said. "That gives us...a full 3 hours," he said, holding her closer. “That is what I was thinking... now, how are we going to take care of that?” Yalta knew the answer and she wanted to giggle very badly. Ryko lifted her chin up to his face and kissed her. "You already know the answer to that," he said, kissing her again. “Yes I do.... I like that connection, don't know why and I don't want to figure it out. It's there, period.” She lifted herself up to be facing him a bit more. She look into his eyes and gave him a kiss, and after continued to look at him with a little smile on her face. "It's always been there, we just never really discovered it til recently," Ryko said, stroking her cheek. "It needs no explanation, just cause you can't see it, doesn't mean it isn't there." Ryko kissed Yalta again, passionately. As he did, he pulled the sheet of the bed over them. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Deck 3 crew quarters, OPS quarters – 0830) ==================================== Suddenly her alarm clock resonated, usually should would have woke up sooner but with what happen with Sky she was deep asleep. Sky also woke up and look at the time, didn't have to say much. They both hit the shower enjoying it a little. Didn't need breakfast since they had a big one a few hours ago. Replicating a fresh uniform for Sky, dressing up and at 0900 hrs they were out. “Tonight... it's going to be my treat!” She said has they walk inside the turbolift. “And no but about it!” ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Turbolift – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0903) ==================================== “Tonight... it's going to be my treat!” She said has they walk inside the turbolift. “And no but about it!” Ryko felt excited. It sounded like Yalta had something fun planned. "Can't wait to find out what it is," Ryko said as he fially released her. "Deck 1, bridge," he said, and the turbolift started moving. "At least give me a clue," he said, smiling again. “You showed me where you loved to be and I will show mine. It's going to take me time to cook it up from memory.... I know you will love it.” She winked at him as they would soon be on bridge deck. Ryko was intrigued and a little puzzled by her response. Still, it would be fun to find out. He checked his watch. 0910. He was now on active duty. That meant that he had to observe the chain of command. "Well, I'll see you there...sir," Ryko said, as the lift doors opened. He walked slightly ahead of Yalta but winked at her over his shoulder. Not too conspicuous as to break the rules, but friendly enough nonetheless. Yalta hold her chuckled but smiled has she releaved the officer at the Ops station. ==================================== (USS BOUDICCA-BRIDGE- TURBO LIFT- ENSIGN (JG) JOHN FREDERICKS - 09:05) ==================================== John turned and headed back towards the Turbo lift and proceeded back down to the security office. ~Maybe he is right~, John thought to himself. ~I guess I need to back off a little and wait. Something is bound to happen sooner or later, there is too much going on to stay quite for more than a little while~. The lift slowed and stopped on deck 12 and John walked to the office and started on the paper work. While working on the never ending stack of papers John noticed that there were two new men assigned to this shift. He decided to grab a few minutes ate the end of shift to unofficially welcome them on board and find out some background, John always liked to find out as much as possible about those he worked with. =/\= computer, locate Ensigns Frank Samuels, and Todd Hodges please=/\= =/\= Ensigns Frank Samuels, and Todd Hodges are on Deck 4 Main Shuttle bay=/\= =/\= Ensign Samuels this is Ensign Fredericks, would you and Hodges please stop by the Security office at the end of shift please=/\=? =/\=Copy, we'll be there at Shifts end=/\= ==================================== (USS BOUDICCA-BRIDGE-TACTICAL STATION- ESIGN (JG) FREDERICKS-0930) ==================================== "Ensign Frederickson, you are relieved," Ryko said as he approached the Tactical console. John was evidently busy. “Aye,” Said John as he wrapped up his checks he had running on the various systems. Everything’s been quiet today. I guess that’s a good thing though right now. "Very good, thanks," Ryko said, smiling again. He couldn't really help it. "All shipshape in Bristol fashion?" he asked as he moved to check the ship's Tactical readiness. Obviously they were still under silent running. Every things good to go and as ready as it can be considering we are running shields down, weapons cold, although they are ready to go to warm status at a moments notice. "Excellent," Ryko said. "Well, I'll take over if you would excuse me," Ryko Said as John moved aside. "Head down to the security office, the general Rounds and paperwork are always there," he said as he logged into the Console. Ryko looked at his assistant. He looked bored. "It gets better," Ryko said. "Quiet days are something you may come to Relish," he said, patting him on the back. "Don't worry, we'll see combat Soon enough." Does it show that much? Asked John. I know the ship just got through with some really nasty bugs and I would hate for anyone to have to go back this soon into combat but it does get monotonous standing a TAC watch on a ship that has everything turned off. I guess it is just being the newest one in the dept. I feel I have to show I can pull my own weight. Those in the Science Dept scan, discover and invent things, those in The Engineering Dept keep the engines going, our dept though is Security, We guard things, keep the ship safe and run the weapon systems and currently there isn’t much to guard, and with running silent that cuts out a lot as well. Oh well, John added jokingly. At least no one gets killed on a boring shift. John turned to leave but stopped a few feet away and turned back to Skylynx. “Hey Ryko, I received a present from a couple of friends on Kronos before we left the station, you might be interested” John said to Ryko. It’s an interactive holo program, although I am not too sure what is on it but I think I can guarantee it will be interesting. ==================================== (USS Boudicca-Bridge- TAC/SC Ensign Ryko Skylynx-0930) ==================================== "Ensign Frederickson, you are relieved," Ryko said as he approached the Tactical console. John was evidently busy. “Aye,” Said John as he wrapped up his checks he had running on the various systems. "Everything’s been quiet today. I guess that’s a good thing though right now." "Very good, thanks," Ryko said, smiling again. He couldn't really help it. "All shipshape in Bristol fashion?" he asked as he moved to check the ship's Tactical readiness. Obviously they were still under silent running. "Every things good to go and as ready as it can be, considering we are running shields down, weapons cold, although they are ready to go to warm status at a moments notice." "Excellent," Ryko said. "Well, I'll take over if you would excuse me," Ryko Said as John moved aside. "Head down to the security office, the general Rounds and paperwork are always there," he said as he logged into the Console. Ryko looked at his assistant. He looked bored. "It gets better," Ryko said. "Quiet days are something you may come to Relish," he said, patting him on the back. "Don't worry, we'll see combat Soon enough." "Does it show that much?" Asked John. "I know the ship just got through with some really nasty bugs and I would hate for anyone to have to go back this soon into combat but it does get monotonous standing a TAC watch on a ship that has everything turned off...I guess it is just being the newest one in the dept. I feel I have to show I can pull my own weight. Those in the Science Dept scan, discover and invent things, those in The Engineering Dept keep the engines going, our dept though is Security, We guard things, keep the ship safe and run the weapon systems and currently there isn’t much to guard, and with running silent that cuts out a lot as well." "Oh well," John added jokingly." At least no one gets killed on a boring shift." John turned to leave but stopped a few feet away and turned back to Skylynx. “Hey Ryko, I received a present from a couple of friends on Kronos before we left the station, you might be interested” John said to Ryko. "It’s an interactive holo program, although I am not too sure what is on it but I think I can guarantee it will be interesting." Ryko cast a fleeting glance in Yalta's direction. "Uh, I've got other plans tonight. Tomorrow, say, about 1900, Holodeck 1?" Ryko asked. (Reply Frederickson) "Great. See you there," Ryko said, hoping he hadn't looked at John for so long that he had given something away. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Holodeck 2– OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/Sc Ensign Skylynx - 1758) ==================================== Yalta had fun preparing what would be the second date she would have with Sky and she knew he was curious. Where she used to live on Elas, close to her home was a mountain range. There was caverns that were used has refuge during the war with Troi. Somw were litterally housed with a hundred families. She spent weeks exploring it, what surprised her was a water cave. Very big, some places deep some places shallow and the water was extremly clean. A small cascade was on the side sending a nice low drumming sound to the nearest caves. The first thing she did was to place lights to accent the beautiful and different stalactics shapes and colors and also a cord bridge that went to another part of the cave to the other side of the mountain. That she would show to Sky. She was remembering everything and how happy she was there. Independance is drill rather early in childhood and at the age of 17, she lived there, alone. She look at the program with a smile on her face. A picnic basket beside the holodeck door. When Yalta walked out, she wasn't surprised to see Sky waiting. “Are you ready?” Ryko looked from the basket to Yalta and smiled. He was wearing a silver and black shirt, over trousers that really belonged on a tuxedo. "Are you kidding? I've been waiting for this all day," Ryko said, smiling more than ever. He stopped leaning on the wall and walked up to her. "Do I have to close my eyes?" he said as he hugged her loosely outside the doors. Yalta closed her eyes feeling all this warmth was wonderful. “No, you don't have too! I have really kept you guessing all day, it was funny.” She smiled. When the door of the holodeck closed, the image behind completed itself. They were on the edge of a cavern, Yalta turn around and look at the horizon. The was an house, they could only see the roof. “You see this roof... that is where I used to live in on Elas. At 17, this is where I lived. There's a lot of history here.” Ryko looked around. He had been wondering about Yalta's roots since they had met. He cast a glance over at the roof and the cavern roof. "Wow," he said, near breathless. He looked around. "You lived here when you were 17?" Ryko asked. “There's more!” Yalta took his hand and started to tell a bit about Elas education system, how independance is drill rather early and so on. Yalta stop at open a door where a living room was. “This is where I lived in for a few years. There's more further. This place used to house about 20 families during the war. A war that I never known but still. I redecorated this place a lot to make it mine.” Ryko let himself be led by Yalta on a merry walk to her former home. He lost himself in what she was saying. "Wow," he said, still unable to find anything to say. He looked around the room. It was like a bigger, better version of her quarters, and a lot more personal and even more beautiful. "You did a hell of a job," he said, admiring the room's decoration. "20 Families in one home, that's got to be tough, though," he added, still not letting go of her hand. “I'm not going to show you the bedroom yet... there's time for that, but something else... you could say my secret lair where I would really forget and dream.” She brought him further inside the caves, sometimes it got narrow and they had to walk on behind the other. They arrived in the water cave and she let him through first. Ryko looked around. His jaw dropped. The whole place was like something out of a fairy tale. "This..is...perfect," Ryko said. He pictured Yalta sitting there, and himself maybe too, sharing one moment of peace and escape from the troubles of life. "Incredible," Ryko said. His face was struggling to find an expression to what he was seeing. "How did you find this place?" Ryko asked, finally smiling. “By accident... I was horse ridding and going home when I was cut in a thunder storm. My horse buckled and through me which was the last time he did that. I had to find a refuge. Storm on Elas are dangerous at certain period of the year. I climb the rock face, and found this place. I continued further, found the energy system and powered it up. I stayed there all night, and the rest is history.” Ryko was impressed. His uncle had been through an Elasian storm and was lucky to have survived it. He looked at Yalta. "You know," he said, stroking her cheek, "I never would have guessed that someone so beautiful was so tough," he said, smiling and running his hand down her neck. He looked around again. The small pool was lit like a lagoon. "I probably would have just stayed here, longer than a night." “My family needed to know that I was alright. I ended up owning this place.” She look at him looking around and knew that he felt that this vast pool of water was inviting. “Do you want to go swim?” Ryko looked at her. "Yes," he answered. He hadn't been swimming for a few months, but this place was too good to pass up. “We are about five feet high here, but it's the deep end bellow, about 12 feet..” Yalta took a couple of steps back. She was wearing a sort of dress that she simply zip down, underneath was a bathing suit. She winked at him and dove in with barely a splash. She came up only in a section a bit more shallow, about 5 feet of water. Ryko smiled. Yalta was expecting him to come unprepared, but he had worn a pair of swimshorts. He laughed as she prepared and jumped in. She had been planning this. Ryko was letting himself go along with it, it was such a good night. Although he did prefer a bit of a better jump in. He walked around to the deeper end of the pool. "Geronimo," he said, and dived in. Water cascaded everywhere, and it didn't take long for him to swim up to her. Yalta did the backward crawl as she watch Sky coming toward her. She wanted to be in a more shallow section. “Turn around and look at the ceiling.” Ryko tred water and spun onto his back. He looked at the cavern's immense ceiling, filled with stalacites. It was eerily beautiful. "This place is like an underground paradise," Ryko said as he floated beside Yalta. He looked over at her, trying not to let water get up to his eyes. "It's perfect," he said. "Just perfect." “When you showed me your favorite place, it brought me back here. I couldn't stop thinking about it and I knew you would love it.” she pass her arms around his neck to bring herself close to him. Her feet were touching the bottom. “Funny, I would dream of space travel here, and more.” Ryko stood up in the water and two feet of his body were above the surface. He crouched a little. "I do love it," Ryko said. "But not as much as you." He kissed her. "I did the first thing when my dad showed me Ilaxia in a holosuite back on earth. That glade was what made me want to fly." She savoured the kiss like it was honey, her heart was beating so fast she was afraid that it would jump out of her chest. “I knew that you would understand, not many does.” She smiled. “Where you are it's a part of me, I never shared this place with anyone.” She pass her hand through his wet hair. “Are you hungry?” Ryko moved his headto follow the flow of Yalta's hand. "Yeah," he said, looking at her again. He was glad she felt so attached to him. As much as he did about her. “Good... follow me!” Yalta let go of Sky, part of her didn't want to but she had too. There was a rop in the deep end of the natural pool, she grabed it and started to clim. Once there, she took the dress and just put it on without zipping and grab the picnic basket. Ryko waited for Yalta to get out and followed her to the rope. He climbed out and dressed. "Where to now?" Ryko asked, catching up with her and holding her free hand. “The rop bridge will take us to another place in the cavern.” Yalta smiled, even if he had to let go of her hand. The rob bridge sway a little but not alot. Made in a triangular shape, 2 ropes 3 foot higher then the third in the centerthe then others, all interlink with other rops to make it steady. Yalta was use to this bridge. “I made that bridge... don't know how many times I fell in the water.” She laughted. Ryko looked at the bridge and joined Yalta's laughing. "I can actually see that," he said, slightly amused as to how they were going to get accross without dropping the picnic basket. Yalta strap the picnic basket with a shoulder strap. “It took a lot of agility to weave the rop between the 3 rops.” That free both her hands. Ryko pictured Yalta building the bridge and failed to imagine how she had managed it. "How did you make this?" He asked as the two stepped onto the bridge. “There was a previous structure. The only thing that was still sound was the 2 support beams behind you. I took appart the old bridge, attach the first rop and plung, clim the other side and attach it. For the second, I went accros with the first one and so on.. Once the 3 major rope were secured. I needed to weave the other ones, one foot appart for stability. I don't remember how many meters of rop I have used. It took me about 2 weeks to make this.” Ryko was impressed. "Great way to use your spare time," he said. " I barely managed to build myself a 6-meter aircraft." Yalta and Sky had cross the bridge and she guided him through other caverns and explain a bit more. “From what I learn, during the war, Elasians constructed big greenhouses, that's why this water source was so important, some of it have been turned away to nourish the greenhouse. That is the second paradise.” As they came out of the tunnel, she let him pass first. Yalta continued to explain. “The light source work for solar pannels that some needed to be repaired or replaced. When I arrived, it was a real jungle, but without animals. I have clear so much rubbish in here, I had help from a few girlfriends for this part. I restored it, I had fruits, vegetables, flowers, everything, I could also take a sunbath here.” Ryko looked around. It resembled a sort of underground Babylon "This is incredible." Ryko couldn't find anything else to say so he said it again. "Incredible.” “Come, I have a table waiting for us and this picnic basket.” Yalta pass in front, taking his hand and they went down via steps carved in the stone wall. Ryko smiled and let himself follow her down by the hand. “I decided to show you how spring looks like here, it's when it's the most fragrant.” Yalta put the basket on the table and started to empty it with a bottle andorian sparkling wine. Ryko stopped and inhaled. Yalta was right. There were too many fragrances to distinguish one from the other, but they seemed to smell wonderful anyway. He turned as he heard the bottle contact the table. He walked up and helped her unpack. “If the wind comes from west... the smell nearly goes everywhere. Ok... now, it's not like your wonderful diner of last night. But there is a hot meal. A little delicacy, an Elasian hot stew, parthas salad, cut fruits with a big jar of wipe cream, and I think you could have guess, Andorian sparkling wine.” Ryko silenced her with a finger over her lips. "I don't care what I'm eating so long as I'm sharing it with you," he said, smiling in his way again. "Now how about we try some of that stew?" he said, moving for the pot. "I'm starving." Yalta open a special heating countainer who had the stew. The smell invaded immidiatly the air. She took a plat and pour some in. Then in hers as well. In a few seconds the table was set. “There, tell me what you think of it.” Yalta sat in front of her plat and took a bit out of her stew. It was perfect, the way her mother made it. Ryko took a few bites. The taste hit him like a thunderbolt. "This is amazing," Ryko said, helping himself to more. "Is there sili spice in here?" he said, sipping again. “Yes there is!” Ryko smiled as Yalta's face lit up. "I love that stuff," Ryko said, continuing to eat the delicious stew. "I could never get my hands on any when I was stationed here, it's not in the replicator database. Where did you get it?" “My mother at first gave me about 2 kilos of the spice with the order to cook some stew if I felt like missing home.” "Your mother was a very smart person," Ryko said, smiling as he ate some more." “She would love you, eating like that... the recipe is hers.” Yalta chuckled has she serve him some wine. Ryko laughed and gratefully accepted the glass. "This is a good night," he said, toasting her again. "I know this may be a little quick, but I can picture us with a future together." he said as he raised his glass. "A few days ago, I told you you were the most intriguing, funny and smart person I have ever met. I meant every word of it," he said, looking into her eyes. He was lost in them. "I also told you that I loved you. That is the most sincere feeling I have ever felt." “I love you too.” She wanted to tell him about Elasian relationships but decided that it wasn't time yet. She look at him in his eyes. “My feelings for you are also true.” Still not taking his gaze away from her face, Ryko smiled. "You're hiding something," he said. He was surprised that he knew this even though they had only been seeing each other for a few months. Yalta took her glass wine and lay back on her chair, she took slowly a sip. “When I first entered the academy, I realised rather quickly that no one knew about Elasians, probably all other civilisation coming in the federation feels the same. Relationships on Elas are form really quickly, I mean romantic relationships. My parents, from the day they met to the day they got married, 30 days. My grandparents, 17 days, but my grandfather always say 12 because grandma decided to go on trip with a group of girlfriends. I want you to take your time, this is are second date and yet it feels like we have done this for a while now. We are discovering each other and I like that exploration.” Yalta took anothe sip and put down her glass. “That's what I wanted to say.” There wasn't even a hint of surprise on Ryko's face. In fact this answered a lot of questions. Why she hadn't felt rushed on the holodeck on their first date- that being just one. Now Ryko knew it was okay. He didn't feel worried anymore. "That's a hell of a way to start a relationship," Ryko said, smiling. "Hey, don't look so down, it's okay," he said, noticing Yalta's face drop as she finished. He placed his glass down. "I'm not actually a pure-bred human, either." Ryko said, smiling and sipping his glass again. Yalta look at him a bit relieved but wonder about his last statement. “What do you mean?” "Nope, half betazoid. Only I don't use empathy, I've surpressed it all these years." Yalta could see that now it was dessert time. She clear the table of the plats leaving the cut fruits and the jar of wipe cream. She got up and pour the fruits in a bowl and open the wipe cream jar. She pick up a fruit, dipped it in the wip cream and gave it to Sky to feed him with. Yalta wasn't about to tell him that this gift would be a great advantage in his work, for the simple reason that many people probably said that to him a thousand time over and it was ancient history. So she moved on. “I wanted to tell you this, I didn't want you to think that I was... what is the word again... Easy. It's all instinct, and I feel that we can be more.” She look into his eyes. “That's why I'm giving you the direction of where we are going, and you will always know where I stand.” Yalta pick up a piece of fruit, dipped it in the wip cream and ate it. “I think that you are ready to see the last place.” She winked at him with a smile and extended her hand. Ryko smiled, a little elated, and took her hand as they rose from the table. "Lead the way, my lady," Ryko said with an almost ancient-earth bow. It wasn't the first time he had done that. Yalta lead the way following a rock path, it seem to stop in front of a climbing vine, she push some away to clear the entrance and they went through. It was pitch black dark in there, but they both could see that there was a light at the end, less then a minute and they were on the other room. It was a huge bedroom. The first thing that would hit was that it was cold, not too cold but fresh and a light air current, the second, there was no technological light source in this room, only candles, maybe an hundred. Taking a corner of the room, was a huge bed that would made Yalta look like a dwarf. The other side, hidden behind a sheer drap was a washroom with huge bathtub, a , 2 or 3 armoirs, a coat peg a couple of meter from the bed and a small bed table where a clock was. The ceiling was breath taking and smooth with three ceiling chandelers. All the candles were lit giving the room a very warm feeling and wanting to cocoon yourself in. Ryko couldn't help but look. His mind was dazzled by what he saw before him. "This is incredible," Ryko said, unable to tear his gaze away from the ceiling. "How did you find this?" “I found this room like this, I just put my belongings in there. The only technology in this room is to make the water hot when I would need it.” Yalta let him take a look around. Ryko breathed. The air was sweet. "That smell...it's the perfume you wore on our first date." Ryko said as he inhaled, still looking around. If he had been led here blindfolded, he would never have guessed that he was in a cave. "Incredible," he said. He couldn't find the words. He stood and looked around until he felt Yalta take his hand. Yalta felt all warm inside has she observed Sky, he even picked on the subtel smell of her perfum. She felt the desire to be close to him and her hand took his. Ryko looked to his side a little and closed his eyes. Tranquility was something hard to find these days, so every moment had to be relished. He squeezed Yalta's hand a little before putting his arm around her waist. “The perfum comes from a plant called Pieris, and there's a blend of Acer wood essence. There is 2 Pieris tree in the arboritum, a male and a female tree, they have large trunk and they are about 70 yrs old and there branchs inter mingle with each other. The leaves are usually collected for medicinal vallue and to make tea, but it's from the flower that comes the perfurm and it only flowers every 5 yrs. It's a precious perfurm and I don't need much, I also don't wear it all the time.” Ryko listened, but said nothing. Instinct told him she had more to say. After a short moment of silence she added. “Forgot, the air of course comes from the entrance but also holes higher up, the natural air current does the rest. Like you can see, my quarters does have the same feeling of this place. My parents now lives here since the house had been damaged by one of those thunder storms. That was the last message I got from them when we were in the starbase. I love this place, it might be uge for one person but I like it.” She faced him still holding his hand. Ryko looked at Yalta and felt a burning desire to get closer to her. He could tell she felt the same. Maybe his betazoid side was beginning to assert itself, but he felt all the same that it was the connection between him and her that made him able to "sense" Yalta's feelings. Yalta looked at him, inside one desire was stiring in her and it was powerful. He could see it in her eyes. Her other hand made it's way behind Sky's neck and she bent him toward her to give him a kiss, a very long kiss. As they parted she said in a whisper. “I love you so much right now, it's hard to control myself.” Ryko smiled and caressed her cheek. "If it's hard, don't do it," Ryko said softly as he ran a hand through her hair. His eyes flitted briefly over to the bed, then back to her face. "I feel the same way," he said, before kissing her again. He was tempted to pick her up off the floor, but resisted. That would spoil the moment. Yalta guided him toward the bed and before sitting him down, she very slowly took off his shirt. The sight of his well tone chest was making her shiver, she liked what she saw. She sat him down and even lay him on the bed, in a few seconds, the dress she was gone too. “It feels like I have been waiting for ever for sharing this place and have this moment..” She said has she lower herself down. “Don't know what are future is, but the presend is far more important into my eyes.” Has there body touch, it was like electricity cross them both and it was enough to start a fire storm. A few hours later, Yalta lay against Sky still feeling elated by the pleasure they had. They had took there time, they hadn't been ruff, but passionate, and tender at the same time. She lift herself up to look at him, he wasn't sleeping either. Ryko looked into Yalta's eyes as she supported herself on her arms, lain either side of his head. He let himself daydream about her. She was like a goddess on earth to him. “I have a wish... but I don't want you to feel obligated to fulfill it.” "Your wish is my command," he said, before sliding round and kissing her again. She savoured the kiss like honey. “I want to fall asleep and wake up in your arms every day. I'm holding you right now and I don't want to let go.” Her free hand caress his chest, she could feel his heart beatting has her hand lay there. Ryko was at the same time a little surprised and ecstatic about Yalta's words. He looked at her again, her hand brushed his chest and he felt his heart skip a beat as she placed her hand right over it. "I wouldn't have a problem with that wish, no problem at all," Ryko answered. "In fact I was thinking the same thing. When I wake up and you're here beside me, I feel like I'm in heaven. Like every day is perfect, complete, and it hasn't even started yet." Ryko put his hand against her heart. "I will do anything if it means a place in here," he said, caressing the place gently and smiling. His free hand took hers and held it close to him as he kissed her again. The feeling of paradise returned to him. He pulled away and stroked her hair. "No matter what happens, I will always be there for you," Ryko said, in the native Elasian language. He lay back, still holding her hand. Yalta was surprised to hear him talk Elasians, she knew it wasn't an hard language to learn but still it was rare that she would hear it from anyone else. In her head flash the past few months, the occasional diner in Ten Forward, tempting them to go further, she made the move and him the second and now they were here. “You already do have a place here.” Yalta lay back on him, she knew that they would start small. “Sky... why don't we finish this night in your quarters... I think that soon the holodeck will shut down the simulation.” Ryko lay with Yalta against him for a few moments, playing with her hair. He had his eyes lightly closed and smiled as she spoke. He was in heaven. He had the love of a beautiful, incredible woman, and he knew that they belonged together. "Alright," Ryko said gently. He sat up, and she did at the same time, they only ceased to touch when they were both upright. Yalta and Sky got dressed, once they were done she look around. Part of her was missing this place. “Computer save program, set this on privacy, only Ensign Sky and me can have access to this program.” [Privacy setting to Yalta program Home] “Ready to go Love!” Ryko smiled, walked accross to her and picked her up. "I don't think we can do this every time," Ryko said, laughing a little. He carried her out of the holodeck. Just like last time, no one was around. It wouldn't have mattered though, they were both off duty. "Alright," Ryko said, looking around, "let's go." He carried Yalta over a nearby turbolift and the two entered. He put her down once inside. "Deck 3, crew quarters," Ryko said, never ceasing to look at Yalta. The turbolift began to move. Yalta looked around, they were alone. “I know, but just being with you is enough.” She gave him a kiss. “We are happy and that is the most important.” She smiled. “I'm a bit curious about what I will see there.” ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew quarters, Ensign Skylynx quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/Sc Ensign Skylynx - 2220) ==================================== Ryko smiled as they walked upto the door. "Well, here we are. I'm afraid I don't own as many blades as you do, but...aw hell, see for yourself," he said, laughing. He pressed the keypad and the door slided open. "After you," he said, bowing a little to let her pass. He followed her inside and stopped just behind her. He blushed a little. The place was dark. Almost embarrassed, Ryko coughed. "Lights," he said, and his quarters lit up. "What do you think?" Ryko asked, seeing Yalta's eyes explore the interior of his quarters. Yalta entered and the lights turn on. She look around, there were a few weapons on the wall. It also look comfortable and manly in earthy tones. What attracted her eyes was a small work bench where a sword was broken in 2 pieces. “What happen to it?” Ryko followed her eyes to the bench. "Ah," he said as he walked up beside her. "That was my favourite blade," Ryko said. He picked up the half containing the hilt. "Its name was Silvernus. This baby got me through 6 martial arts competitions. It was slashed in two by another katana, same type. I keep meaning to repair it, but I haven't found the time." He gave the part he was holding to her so she could try it. “That is a clear sign of metal fatigue, and there was probably an lack of balance here where it broke. I do have the time!” She turn slightly, she took it and it was perfect in her hand. Ryko was impressed. He picked up the broken blade and presented it to her. "It's yours," he said, smiling. He'd never really given anything away, but this felt right. “Are you sure? It will take me a while... I have to melt it and forge.” Yalta look at the 2 pieces. She knew she could do it, she done that before. “I will do that Elasian style but I did study the old japanese way of making swords, nearly similar to our way. The Katana you saw was the prize to have make a blade for the master swordman.” "I'm sure. If there was anyone I would like to repair this blade, It's you." Ryko said, as she put the broken pieces together. "When it was intact, the blade itself was 1.28 metres long," Ryko said. "Really, really big." "Somehow, this one feels less right than the one you let me try in my hands," Ryko said. "Usually I don't think prizes match the task, but that sword you let me use was an example of true craftsmanship." “You don't need a long blade, you need a 1.10 meter with the handle. This blade is also too thick and large. It's going to take me a month to make it. You are invited to watch me work, it's a family business that of course disappeared, but we kept it alive in the family. My brother and I are the only one now who knows how.” Ryko put his hand lightly over Yalta's mouth. "Do what you want with it," he said. "It's yours." He released her from silence and kissed her again. "Blades aren't my only passion, you know," he said as the two separated. "Right now, I'm finding it really hard to control myself." Yalta smiled has she put back the 2 pieces of the blade. “That is really interesting because I learn something today, someone wise said that If it's hard, don't do it... I think he is right.” Ryko smiled and leaned forward. He wrapped his arms around her. "Those are very wise words," Ryko said, "I tend to trust the wise," he said. He kissed her. "I've learned something too. If you have a chance for something good, don't play around, do it," he said. He was enjoying the word games they were playing with each other. He kissed her again. "You know, I do have a 3-blade set of katana in the bedroom," Ryko said, knowing that the katana wouldn't be what was on Yalta's mind at that moment. He smiled and the mysterious glint trailed over his eyes. Yalta smiled as she remembered the words that she said to him, they had the same thoughts. “3 Katana... in your bedroom... that is interesting.” She loved the contact with Sky but also felt tired. Yalta gently back away with a smile and made her way to the bedroom. Shy was just behind her and held her by the waist has they walkeed in. The Katana we set on display on the wall, but she didn't went for them, instead she look around. The room was in warm tones and there was a santal wood aroma in the room and obviously he like a low setting of light just like her. “I like the setting you have.” She grab his arm holding her waist lifted it and kiss his hand to free herself. “I can see myself here.”" “This room is where I relax. I tried to recreate the tones I had in my home back on Earth. I couldn't well recreate a cavern, but I got the colours and the scent right. Just sniff." Ryko said. “I do... “" That is Relei Insense," Ryko said. "Makes me feel sorta sleepy, that's why I use it here. Very handy when the job gets stressful." He walked to her side. "I can see you here, too," Ryko said softly, crouching slightly so he was the same height as Yalta. She looked at him and laughed at his attempt to shrink. Ryko couldn't help but laugh too. He did look a little silly. Yalta was laughing but not to hurt him, he was just acting funny. “I sometimes burn incense too, usually some Kiri, reminds me of home.” “Well, some people will have you believe it's genetic. My dad would have you believe that it's through the regime I went through as a child. Very exhaustive." Ryko said. He looked at Yalta. She did seem tired. "Come on," he offered, let's get some sleep." “That is a really good idea.” Yalta made her way to the bed and took off the dress before slipping under the covers. Sky was doing the same once she was in and once beside her, she snuggled against him. “I have one question... A cavern?” Ryko put his arm around her shoulder and stroked her hair. "You showed me that underground cavern where you loved to be, but I must confess. Ilaxia was where I loved to be, but my favourite place was always at home, in a cave on one of the mountains of my family land," Ryko said, feeling a little guilty about having not shown it to her earlier. “It's intriguing... keep going!” "That's where I discovered this insense," Ryko said, taking a deep breath and exhaling. "It became a home from home, I used to just run away and hide there whenever my dad would shout at me or something. It became a sanctuary for me. It wasn't as spacious as your cavern on Elas, but it was still peaceful." “That is always important!” Ryko leaned over and kissed her hair. "It was about 80 meters underground. A winding tunnel led to a big open space, with natural windows and vents for air circulation. There were Relei trees growing underground, and the heat carried the scent of the flowers through the entire place. I found it accidentally, just wandered in from the rain. It was so tranquil I just fell straight asleep. I never got the chance to fully explore it." “Just like I found mine!” She smiled. “I guess he didn't like it... not his cup of tea.” "Routine and regime. My dad didn't leave me much time for R & R. His idea of fun was writing a big-assed temporal mechanics report." Ryko finished, unable to hold back a laugh. “I would like to see it.” "Then I'll have to show you at some point," Ryko said as he slid down into the bed, abandoning the headrest. His head faced hers, and he simply lay there looking at her and smiling. "It's funny, but until now, I never thought I'd meet someone who I can talk to comfortably about my past." “Me too... feel free!” She liftted her hand slowly and push away a lock of hair on his forehead. "I'm glad I can share my feelings with you openly, Yalta. I'm glad I found you, and I'm more than elated that you feel the same way about me." “I'm happy that you feel that way. I wasn't sure I would meet someone like you... I guess I was wrong.” Ryko smiled, then carressed her cheek. "And the best part is, you didn't even need to cry," Ryko said. "I fell in love with you the instant I saw you." “I wanted to know you more ever since I saw you. The diners we shared told me I could share my heart with you... now we need to sleep Honey.” Ryko kissed Yalta and watched as she melted into his arms. He relaxed and lightly closed his eyes. He almost regretted his plans with John the next day. "Can I ask you something?" Ryko said as Yalta began to drift off. “Yes... What?” She yawn and open her eyes, she was just feeling too good in his arms right now. "I was wondering, the other day, when we were on the holodeck, I said something, in my head. Did you hear it?" He asked, feeling a little wierd. “No, just my instinct that kicked in.” Ryko smiled, relieved that he wasn't losing control. He sighed a breath of relief and settled down. "Perfect," Ryko said. He was glad that he could understand Yalta through a loving connection, not through empathy. He always viewed that as the right way to go about trying to get to know someone. Reading minds was just wrong. He kissed her head and put his arm around her before setlling down himself. "Goodnight, Sweetheart," he said in Elasian again. “Good night!” She answered back as she rub her face a little on Sky chest feeling his warmth before settling herself. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Main engineering- ACSO- Ensign Vegra Gretud - 2220) ==================================== As Vegra walked into the engineering deck he headed straight for the CEO who Vegra had been told was called Trevan West. “Ah excuse me sir. I was told to talk to the engineering staff about my shuttle craft it is currently docked in the shuttle bay and I have asked the captain to have permate quarters on it. Unfortanatly the captain has told me it must be tide into the ships computer. So here comes the complicated bit.” (Reply West) “Well as my shuttle craft is roughly the same as the delta flyer expect it is double the size and has a cloaking device fitted. One half is used as the crew quarters and medical and dining area the other half is used as the science labourty.” (Reply West) “Yes I am very proud of it as a built most of it myself… I have a plan to tie it into the ship… several years ago I plannted a subspace device enabling my craft to interface with any computer in the galaxy… but I can not control the computer only navigate it.” (Reply West) “Ah I will give you full specifications of this device. “ (Reply West) “I am here to ask for your help… the captain has already agreed to this…” ==================================== USS Boudicca – Main engineering- ACSO- Ensign Vegra Gretud - 2220) ==================================== Trevan was going over some status reports, on the spacial distortions that sent the ship for a loop and knocked his engines off line. "What the hell is going on?" he muttered to himself. Trevan was just looking up when he saw Ensign Gretud come stolling into Engineering. He rose and shook her hand. She spoke, “Ah excuse me sir. I was told to talk to the engineering staff about my shuttle craft it is currently docked in the shuttle bay and I have asked the captain to have permate quarters on it. Unfortanatly the captain has told me it must be tide into the ships computer. So here comes the complicated bit.” TRevan lowered his hand and replied, "It's no problem Ensign, we do these things all the time," he turned around and punched up the specs of her shuttle and placed the PADD under his arm. "Give me about 15 minutes to go over the specs and then I will head up to the shuttle bay. Shouldn't take me more then a half and hour to complete the process. Feel free to over see it if you like? In case you have any questions." Trevan flinched at his own statement, he hates people watching over him while he works. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Main engineering- ACSO- Ensign Vegra Gretud - 2220) ==================================== “Ah excuse me sir. I was told to talk to the engineering staff about my shuttle craft it is currently docked in the shuttle bay and I have asked the captain to have permate quarters on it. Unfortanatly the captain has told me it must be tide into the ships computer. So here comes the complicated bit.” Trevan lowered his hand and replied, "It's no problem Ensign, we do these things all the time, give me about 15 minutes to go over the specs and then I will head up to the shuttle bay. Shouldn't take me more then a half and hour to complete the process. Feel free to over see it if you like? In case you have any questions "Dont not worry mister West I trust you although I will be on the ship if you need me." Replyed Vegra ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: A Dream of the Past, Day 3 Stardate: 2406.10.13 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0730) ==================================== Yalta woke up with a sense of well being in her that seem to be the first time in a long time. She look at Sky, last night they have been so close mentally. She carefully got out of bed making sure that Sky would stay warm under the covers. She made her way toward the other room stretching herself out. She slowly made her way to the replicator. “Computer, I would like a bathrobe, coming down to over the knee, color, blue periwinkle, and with belt. The fabric... satin.” Yalta oberser the clothing appear... all well folded. She took it and put it on before returning her attention to the replicator again. “Computer replicate a toothbrush and an hairbrush.” She picked up the 2 ittems, started to brush her hair has she made her way to the bathroom. She put them where she could, before returning to the livingroom. Yalta took a peak at Sky, he had moved but didn't seem to have noticed that she wasn't there yet. Then realised that he would be hungry, just like she was right about now. She return to the replicator and order the breakfast. 2 muffins, 2 oatmeal banana, strawberry cookies, fruits of different kinds, and 2 glass of orange juice and milk. Yalta look at the full tray, one thing was missing. “Computer, a red rose please, no vase.” The last touch appeared and she smiled. She walk back slowly to the bedroom, and put the tray on the night stand, when she turn, Sky was awake and had a smile on his face has he look at her. “Surprise... breakfast... I think that just like me you are hungry. You need it if you want to survive the day and tell me what you will do.” ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – TAC/SC - 0730) ==================================== Ryko rolled in his sleep a little, he felt a slight shift in the room. In his mind he could sense the connection moving. This instinct woke him up and eventually, when his eyes focused, he was staring at a small tray, complete with a red rose, and behind it stood Yalta. “Surprise... breakfast... I think that just like me you are hungry. You need it if you want to survive the day and tell me what you will do.” Ryko smiled at her and sat up. "You, are a mindreader," Ryko said gratefully, as he took up the tray. "You want some?" he offered, as he started to tuck in. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0732) ==================================== She walk back slowly to the bedroom, and put the tray on the night stand, when she turn, Sky was awake and had a smile on his face has he look at her. “Surprise... breakfast... I think that just like me you are hungry.” Ryko smiled at her and sat up. "You, are a mindreader," Ryko said gratefully, as he took up the tray. "You want some?" he offered, as he started to tuck in. “I'm starving also.. I used your replicator for this bathrobe, a toothbrush and hairbrush... The very basic.” She smiled taking a muffin and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “So, what do you have to do today?” (reply from Skylynx) “I see, so we might see each other later then usual. You know where I am. Today is my day off. I will start on your sword. Some manual work will change me from head work.” (Reply from Skylynx) “Lucky... I feel this way ever since the other night. I can't forget last night.” Yalta took the glass of milk and drank some. “You let me love you and this said so much.” She took his arm and pass it behind her, she loved to be closed him. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio - 0732) ==================================== “Surprise... breakfast... I think that just like me you are hungry,” Yalta said. Ryko smiled at her and sat up. "You, are a mindreader," Ryko said gratefully, as he took up the tray. "You want some?" he offered, as he started to tuck in. “I'm starving also.. I used your replicator for this bathrobe, a toothbrush and hairbrush... The very basic.”  She smiled taking a muffin and gave him a kiss on the cheek.  “So, what do you have to do today?” Ryko licked some sauce off his lips. These muffins were great. "Well," he said as he finished, picking up a small piece of fruit and teasing her with it, "I'm on duty till about 1830 today, then I'm off to the holodeck with Ensign Frederickson to try a klingon hand combat simulation," he said, finally giving her the food. “I see, so we might see each other later then usual. You know where I am. Today is my day off.  I will start on your sword. Some manual work will change me from head work.” "Lucky you," Ryko smiled, leaned over and kissed her. He found paradise again. "Or should that be lucky me, I feel on top of the world when I'm with you." “Lucky... I feel this way ever since the other night. I can't forget last night.”  Yalta took the glass of milk and drank some.  “You let me love you and this said so much.”  She took his arm and pass it behind her, she loved to be closed him. Ryko smiled and rested lightly against her. "I feel exactly the same way," he said, his hand brushing over her shoulder. He finished the last of breakfast and set it aside. "Ever since you looked at me on the bridge." Ryko absently tickled Yalta's neck. She giggled a little. Ryko smiled. "You never told me you were ticklish," he said as he continued stroking her neck. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 0735) ==================================== Ryko absently tickled Yalta's neck. She giggled a little. Ryko smiled. "You never told me you were ticklish," he said as he continued stroking her neck. Yalta couldn't help but laugh, her father had found that spot also behind her neck and now Sky found it. This meant war. “I am and you are probably ticklish here.” Yalta's hands reach the barely noticeable love handles. It lead to an out loud war until they both fell of the bed and on top of each other. Yalta couldn't move as suddenly they both stop laughing and there eyes met. The current was passing like water and there hands touch and time seem to stop. She brought his hand to her mouth and put a kiss on the back of his hand before is face came close to hers. At the same time, they said in a whisper. “I love you so much!” Ryko laughed a little. He loved this. Life seemed perfect when he was around Yalta. Every moment was heaven. Ryko lay on the floor, looking up at her face. He caressed her cheek. "No one's ever found that spot till now," Ryko said. He had managed to keep the fact that he had sensitive ribs a secret. "How did you know?" He asked. Yalta had a mischievous smile on her face. “I knew that’s all, or I was lucky. Some Elasians would say that we are an old couple.” Ryko kissed her. "I'd agree," Ryko laughed a little. "Think about it... a crazy girl who plays with swords, and a Space Jock who can't get enough of guns and the sky," Ryko said, smiling in the way he always did and laughing. “Good enough reason to stay together, but right now, I wonder if you know what I am thinking, what I desire, what I need and even more so what I dream.” She gave him a kiss, slow and warm before caressing his face. Ryko put his arms around Yalta and pulled her close. "I'm thinking exactly what you are," he said. He could feel her breathing on him. It was a comfortable feeling. He liked it. "If I'm right," Ryko said, stroking her back, "you're thinking that you're in paradise, you never want it to end, you need me, and you're dreaming of us becoming even more than what we are." “Yes and those are the best dreams.” Ryko smiled. "The best dreams are the ones that come true," Ryko said as he played with Yalta's hair. “Yes, I want that and more.” Yalta just lay herself on top of him, her head on his chest. Sky's arm were comforting and loving. “So what are we going to do before you have to leave. What do you dream for us?” Ryko closed his eyes and sighed. "I can see us with a family," Ryko said, stroking her head. "I can picture us on a small moon, I don't know, maybe on a farm, and we're happy. “Maybe a bigger ship then this one, more quiet assigments. I like travelling.” She gave a kiss on his chest. “A family, I want one also, nothing would please me more then to have a part of you and me together and creating havoc.” Ryko laughed. "Yeah, that would be fun," Ryko said. "I have to admit I'm not that keen on staying on the ground either." Ryko lifted Yalta's chin up til she was facing him. "So long as I'm with you, I'm home," Ryko said, and leaned forward to kiss her again. Kissing him was like tasting sweet chocolat and she never had enough of it. “I feel the same... I might act bold here but what if we merge are quarters arrangments but that depends on you.” Ryko smiled. "Perfect," Ryko said. He had been thinking of asking Yalta of such a thing for quite a while, but he had been unsure. "I know a really good place. It's at the back of the ship, with a view of the nacelles. They look like guards or something, watching out for the shuttlebay," Ryko said, then starting to laugh at how detailed he seemed to be getting. “They are just a bit bigger then are quarters, but not by much. I reserved them for couples and with families. I was thinking of a more simpler, you move in my quarters or me in yours... they are the same size.” Ryko smiled. "Then who's gonna move where?" Ryko said. "I don't have much stuff, I could move in with you," Ryko said, still stroking Yalta's hair. "Besides, the sonic shower in here always seems to squeak." “The repair crew should have had this repaired by now. It depends on you Love if you want to move in with me. I could do the same too. It would seem that we are in a delima here.” Ryko laughed. "That's true. Tell you what," Ryko said, easing himself up, "We'll let fate decide. We'll toss a coin for it." he said, eventually standing up. He offered her a hand and whisked her up from the floor. “The old fashion way... I like it.” Once up, she sat on the bed. “Do you have a coin?” Ryko moved to the dresser next to the bed. He opened it and pulled out a St.Christopher medallion. "It's two sided, it'll do. Heads, I move in with you," Ryko smiled, "tails, you move in with me." “I agree!” She lay back in the bed, wondering what the outcome of this coin would be. “Go ahead Sky!” "Here goes," Ryko said, and without warning tossed the coin straight up into the air. Time slowed down to a stop, and the coin tumbled end over end, falling to the ground. Ryko was smiling all the time. Either way was good for him. The coin hit the ground with a small "ping" and rolled around. It teetered on its end and fell. Ryko bent down to look. "Tails," he said as he looked at it. He looked up at Yalta and smiled. Yalta had bent over the bed and also saw the result. “The Faiths have spoken, I'm moving with you. I just might has well do this today... should take me a bit more then a couple of hours to move. Tonight, you should have a surprise.” Ryko couldn't control himself. He stood up and picked Yalta up, hugging her tightly. "This, is the best thing that's ever happened to me," he said, smiling uncontrollably. “I can see that by your smile.” She caress his back answering to his bear hug. “I'm happy too... Very happy!” Ryko laughed and kissed Yalta deeply. “You better be careful Handsome, I have a strong weakness for your body type and even more so when they know what they want, express what they feel and are not afraid of showing it.” She return the kiss just has passionately. “Don't be surprise to say that I want you.... and tonight we will celebrate this new step.” Ryko looked into Yalta's big, blue eyes. "I want you," he said, and pressed his face against hers. There was an amazing connection between them and he would give anything to keep it. “And you have me Sky.” She look despite herself to the ship chronometer. “We have a big hour with each other before going to work.” Ryko looked into her eyes. "You have the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen," Ryko said, still not pulling himself away from her. "It's gonna take more than a few minutes late into a ship to drag me away from them." “Delighfull! It is a rare eye color for an Elasian..” She manage to take him toward the bed. “Now, I think you deserve to have a little taste of what will happen tonight, unless you want to relax.” She sat Sky on the edge of the bed. Ryko sat. "To hell with relaxing, I'm hyper," he said, still smiling. “Well, I'm afraid I'm suffering from the same affliction right now. Excited, energised, and other emotions just has powerful. So, we will do something about it.” Yalta took off her bathrobe and even before it fell, she slowly lay Sky on the bed. “Computer turn off the lights.” ==================================== (USS Boudicca – crew quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 1005) ==================================== Yalta woke up alone in bed with a smile on her face. She look beside her, there was a red rose on the table. They would have to be a few things shared. Like the scent of the room, she went also exploring the closet and cupboard, there was room for another and plenty in the closet. For this part, that wouldn't cause a problem. Yalta put on her bathrobe and look at the livingroom area. She would have room for her armchair, there was room for her katana. She would also arrange a work area so that it wouldn't clutter the rest. “I wonder how he will react later tonight. Better get to work then... I have other things to do and prepare a little celebration.” Yalta look at herself in the reflection of the single large window. “You will know if it will work or not.. I wonder if others figured it out about us.” She said to herself in a chuckle. “Well girl... let's get to work and move!” ==================================== (Boudicca - COUNS Office - COUNS Dr. Domini Alizara & CSO/2O Dr. Kyle Morie Rin - 16:13) ==================================== Domini had cleared all the furniture to the back corners of the room, and spread soft cushions on the floor. She had lit candles around the room, and started a cone of incense designed to induce relaxation going. As the sweet and cinnimony scent spread around the room, Domini sat herself down on a cushion. She had changed out of her Starfleet uniform into one of the betazoid silk meditation outfits she kept packed away in a trunk in her Quarters. She had sent Rin a copy of what to replicate..it wouldn't be the same, but it would be better than nothing. She had told him to arrive at 1615, so the two of them could start on getting his telepathic abilities under some kind of conscious control. ==================================== (Boudicca - COUNS Office - COUNS Dr. Domini Alizara & CSO/2O Dr. Kyle Morie Rin - 16:15) ==================================== Kyle stood outside of Domini's office wearing his mother's betazoid meditation outfit, it was one of many things he had gathered up when he left earth. It fit good besides the arms being a bit longer then his own, he reached out and push the door chime to Domini's office and waited for a response. (reply Domini) Entering the office his eyes adjusted to the low light given by the candles which surrounded the room. The sweet scent of cinnimon rose from a incense cone which rested on a near-by desk. Kyle spotted Domini sitting on a cushion which occupied the floor, next to which sat another one almost exact as the first. He sat down slowly onto the cushion getting as comfortable as he could, at the same time he heard Domini began to laugh a little looking over at her the laughter subsided and she had a smile on her face as she began to ask a question. (reply Domini) "Oh, this..." Kyle pulled at the sleeve of his outfit and continued. "This belonged to my mother, it's one of many things I brought with me before I entered starfleet, as for my home back in scotland I have a family relative watching over it. Maybe someday I could take you there and show you how beautiful it is..." Kyle stopped and gave a smile on his face. "I must be boring you to death huh?" ==================================== (Boudicca - COUNS Office - COUNS Dr. Domini Alizara & CSO/2O Dr. Kyle Morie Rin - 16:17) ==================================== "Oh, this..." Kyle pulled at the sleeve of his outfit and continued. "This belonged to my mother, it's one of many things I brought with me before I entered starfleet, as for my home back in scotland I have a family relative watching over it. Maybe someday I could take you there and show you how beautiful it is...I must be boring you to death huh?" Domini grinned. "Never. Are you ready for this ?" She asked him, looking into his eyes, and taking his hand. At his nod, she pulled him down onto the cushion across from her. ::Do you trust me?:: She said, reaching out her 'hand' to him. ::Take my hand:: She ordered, 'seeing' him grasp it, she pulled them into a higher level of his mind, pointing to the throbbing glass furnace in one corner of his mind. ::That is your telepathic seat.:: She said, walking him towards it. ::It is where all your ability comes from. Do you see how it throbs and ebbs and pulses?:: Kyle focused all his attention inward into his mind as he looked over the glass furnace. ::I see... no wonder i'm suffering.:: He continued to watch the furnace ebbed and pulsed as Domini continued. ::Follow me.:: She said, closing her 'eyes' and 'opening' them in her mind. ::Do you see how mine is smooth, no pulses, no ebbs?:: She showed him her larger, brighter telepathic center. ::That is what you are going to learn how to do, smooth it out, so that your power doesn't drain you.:: She dropped the link then. "Take a deep breath, Kyle." She said, handing him a glass of juice and a very sweet cookie. "Many religions throughout the galaxy believe that the partaking of bread at the end of a religious experience is necessary to bring them closer to their god. In truth, it acts as a way to ground the person's telepathic centers. Almost every single humanoid species has that center. Most are very small, and pulse at odd times, what humans call intuition. Betazoids are very large, and ours work a little differently. Go one eat." She said, smiling. "Have you ever heard the terms ground and center?" Domini said, looking at him curiously. Kyle took a sip of the juice and bite from his cookie. "My mother told me about such a thing, but never went into any detail over the subject." "A center is that quiet place inside you that many different species use in meditation. it's a place where there is only you, a place of calm, a place that you can begin to rebuild yourself from." She thought for a moment. "I was taught that the ground was your spiritual connection to the Goddess, but it really isn't, it's a way of... making a stable pillar upon which to build your shields, and thus control your power. I was taught to ground outside in a meadow, if it will make it easier for you, we can try the hydroponics gardens." Nodding in agreement Kyle began to feel at peace with himself and all his emotions which he faught day after day. She saw that he had finished his juice. She took his hand again, and spoke aloud, "Close your eyes, Kyle and allow your mind to drift." She said, picking up the link again. ::This is your center.:: She said, pointing at the quiet spot in amidst all the chaos. She could see the emotions and thoughts beginning to overwhelm him, just being in the link with her made it easier for them to come in. She raised her hands and an energy barrier formed between them and the missiles. ::Be at peace, they can not harm you.:: She said, turning back to him. ::Now that you know where the quiet spot is, can you reach it ?:: ::I'll do my best...:: Looking around he began to see lush gardens with beautiful roses and other flowers which bloomed around him. As he sat down he felt soft grass underneath him, fresh air filled his lungs, all around him were fields and fields of plants and trees. A beautiful blue sky with white puffy clouds flew by above as he looked for Domini she had a smile on her face this smile was different then the ones he had seen before. ::Is this real? Am I doing all this I feel so calm and peaceful right now.:: Kyle held onto his 'center & ground' until he drew weak and let go, opening his eyes he was back in the counselor's office. A sense of relaxation surrounded him and a smile drew on his face as he looked into Domini's eyes. "That was... amazing... i've never felt so..." Domini filled in the exact words he was looking for. ==================================== (USS Boudicca – Crew Quarters – OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 2000) ==================================== Yalta look at the living room one last time, she finished by placing 2 of the 3 katana that was in the bedroom in the living room. In the bedroom she arrange her own sword with his. She changed the color of the wall very slightly. Had a couple of picture, a book case full of books, her reading chair opposite Sky work table. She more or less sorted a few things there, but didn't want to move to much of them. She added the few plants she had in her quarters and arrange the lighting for them. It seem that her stuff mesh alright with Sky stuff. She also manage to program the computer to create one out of two days, the smell she had in her quarters and his. Today, it would be hers, tomorrow his. “I wonder what will be his reaction, hope I didn't do to much. He should be coming soon.” Ryko was more than a little curious as he exited the Holodeck. He bade a last goodbye to John and stepped into the Deck 10 turbolift. "Deck 3, crew quarters," he said, and as the turbolift moved, he toweled himself down to get rid of any last beads of sweat. He walked up to the door of his quarters and relaxed. "Well, Ryko, this is it," he said, feeling like he was moving into a new home. The doors opened, and there was Yalta, smiling amongst the rearranged furniture. He noticed the changes, and he liked them. "Daddy's home," he joked, joining her in the middle of the room. Yalta smiled a bit relieved and happy. “Had a good workout? Made you a soup. I tried not to move to much of your stuff.” Ryko slung his towel against a chair and hugged her. "It was great fun," Ryko said. "But that soup sounds real good," he said, kissing her lightly and releasing her. “It didn't took long to move things in here... but placing them was another story.” She smiled. Ryko looked around. "It's gonna take a while to get used to having two people's belongings in here, but I like it," he said. "Especially that," he said, indicating the small shrine-like display now housing both their swords. Yalta look at him peaking around in the bedroom. “Those are our precious possessions. Hopefully others will follow. The soup is ready on the table, but maybe you want to take a shower first.” Ryko smiled. This was good. He had a momentary vision of the time they would spend together here, but came to his senses when Yalta spoke. "Gladly," he said, and disappeared into the bathroom. “Your sonic shower shouldn't give you any problems... I had a... serious conversation with it.” Ryko laughed as he went to open the door. Sure enough, there was no squeak. "Don't tell me you hit it with something," Ryko said, still chortling a little, as he got inside. “I was very tempted... but no... I had a few tools and did the repairs.” Ryko turned on the shower. "Well I'd never tell the difference..." he said. "No squeak," he said, as though perplexed. "It's great." The shower finished within a few minutes, and Ryko stepped out, not wearing anything. "Pass me that towel, would you?" he asked. ~Are you sure?~ she thought. “Yes” she gave him the towel with a smile. “I need to get into something more comfortable.” Yalta vanished in the bedroom. Ryko couldn't help a mysterious smile as he toweled himself dry. ~Something tells me she's got something in mind to celebrate this occasion~ he thought. He tied the towel around his waist and took up a comb. He made sure his hair was straight, but left it untied. There would be time to rearrange it into its locks later. He checked his teeth, and walked through into the bedroom. Yalta had put on a comfortable dress, slimming but not to much with a long crack on the side, showing her right leg. It would be good to go out, but also to stay inside and have a quiet time. She noticed him coming in. “Now, I feel much better and a bit more myself.” Ryko resisted the urge to let his jaw drop. "You look Gorgeous," he said, walking slowly over to her. "I feel like a peasant in front of a queen," he said, lightly putting his arms around her waist. “Thank you, you can dress if you want. I left your clothes where they are, just added my cupboard here and everything else in here. I think that you look very good... what ever you are wearing!” She smiled. ~Or not! Now come down girl, you know that to make this unforgettable it needs to take time.~ She didn't resist the emotion as she put her hands on his shoulder. “The soup will get cold.” Ryko's mind wasn't on the soup. He kissed Yalta deeply, only stopping when his stomach growled. "Okay, maybe I'd better eat something first," he said, and dressed. He headed to the table and there it was, a small bowl. He sat himself and took a sip. "Mm, this is good," Ryko said. "But I still think your mother's stew tasted better," he smiled, still eating. Yalta had followed him and sat beside him. “What do you think is in the plat beside the replicator!” Ryko looked. "You didn't..." he said. "You did!" he said, finishing the soup. He took second plate. "I can't get enough of this stuff," he said as he started to eat. "You want some?" he asked, she wasn't showing it, but Ryko could tell Yalta was hungry. Yalta show a fork. “Of course... I made this plate big enough for 2 people.” she slide the plate in the middle of each other. “So, how was your day? Busy?” She started to eat. Ryko took another bite and swallowed. "Briefed a bunch of new personnel, the highlight was definitely the holodeck with John, we were there for an hour maybe, but it was great. Klingon fight program. I eventually got sick of the Bat”leth so I summoned a Katana." “I like the Kor'sha program... it's rather challenging.” Ryko was a little surprised at first, but realized that Yalta was definitely the sort of person interested in such things. "I used to like a hand-to-hand program I had, it was an arena, with weapons everywhere, and it made you fight yourself," Ryko said. “Yes, which makes you grow, I did play around the Gladiator program.” Yalta got up and came back with 2 glass and a bottle of Elasian wine. She didn't put much in the glasses, actually didn't need much. "Hm, vintage 2348, can't say I've had anything from that year before," Ryko said as he accepted the glass. “It's always good with Elasian stew.” Ryko sipped, and tasted the wine for a few moments. "You're right," he said. "Good choice." He set the glass down and continued to eat. "I've just had an Idea," Ryko said as they continued to eat and drink. “What is it?” The plate was becoming empty fast. Ryko took another sip of wine. "Why don't we have a fight?" he suggested. "You know, see what each other can do with a blade. On the holodeck of course." he said, setting down his fork as they finished the stew. “Are you sure?” She finish the rest of her wine in her glass. "Why not?" he said, finishing his own drink. "It would be fun, and with holographic blades, there's no risk of injury." He took her hand and looked at her with a smile. "Come on, show me you can kick my ass," Ryko said, laughing a little. That was a tempting offer. “I will have to get change first. This dress isn't combat proof. Do you give me a moment to change?” Ryko sat back. "We don't have to do it tonight," Ryko offered. "After all, this is our first night together, living in the same place." “When do you want to see me in action?” She got up and sat on his lap passing an arm behind his neck. Ryko put an arm around her waist and caressed her thigh. "Well, tomorrow is my day off," Ryko offered, "so anytime tomorrow is great." “And tomorrow I work... finish around 1800, how about 1830 in holodeck 2.” "Sounds great," Ryko said, moving his hand to her back and kissing her. The sensation of his hand in the middle of her back was wonderful and the kiss even better. “I guess it's a date.” Ryko ran his hand gently in little circles on the small of her back, and pulled his face away until they were a few inches apart. "I guess so," he said, not ceasing to caress her back. “Any choice of weapons... I'm rather proficient in the blade area.” Yalta massage Sky's neck to help him relax even further. Ryko sighed a little. "Me too," he said, "plus I think it would be unfair to shoot at you," he said, massaging her shoulder. Yalta closed her eyes. “Shoot me... that might be difficult depending on the holodeck program.” The massage was distracting her. “But right now... That feels good what you are doing, and I know what would feel better. How about that I give you a good massage? You have work hard today just like I did.” "You first," Ryko said, using his other hand to work on her other shoulder. “In the bedroom we will be more comfortable.” Ryko eased her off his lap and stood up. "Go ahead and make yourself comfortable, I'll be in in a few minutes," he said, smiling again. “As you wish Love!” Yalta made her way to the bedroom, she had a couple of essential oils that she put on the night stand. The dress slipped off , and she put on her bathrobe. ~I wonder what he has in mind.~ Ryko walked over to the wall next to the replicator, and located a small latch. A part of the wall swung away to reveal a small keepsake of oil. He took it out. The last time he had used this massage oil was on his own face to help take the pain away from his nose after the accident. He took the bottle and headed into the bedroom. She sat comfortably and watch him sat on the bed, he took gently one of her feet, lucky that he didn't test how ticklish she was there also. She was surprise how gentle but how precise he was has he massage her feet. Actually, they both took the opportunity to relax and talk about various subjects, most of it was about family. They discover that they had differences but also were also alike and what was the chance that they would meet on this ship. One in a million, maybe more but there was one thing... they wanted this relationship to work, and maybe that bond was the proof that there was more to them that meets the eye. As they fell asleep after an intense moment of passion, who know what tomorrow would bring. Time would tell soon enough. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: A Dream of the Past, Day 4 Stardate: 2406.10.14 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ==================================== (USS Boudicca - Crew Quarters - OPS Lt. Schafio & TAC/SC Ensign Skylynx - 0630) ==================================== Yalta lay on her back feeling all warm, her eyes started to open. She felt Sky giving her a kiss on her hand. “Good morning Handsome.” "Good morning beautiful," Ryko said, running his hand up and down her arm. "Did you sleep well?" he asked, kissing her hair. “I slept like a baby... and you?” She smiled enjoying this. "Like a brick," Ryko said. The two giggled a little. "But I did feel you curling up a little, against me. It was nice... comforting." “I was having a nice dream, don't remember what but it felt so good.” “Every night from now on is going to be like this, side-by-side on the bridge, and side-by-side at home. We'll never be apart," Ryko said. "I don't know about you, but this is my idea of heaven." “It's certainly nice and a wonderful idea... for not saying a perfect night. I love you.” Yalta cuddled a bit more against Sky. “More the perfect I should say.” "I love you too," Ryko said, and lifting her face up to his, he kissed her passionately. Yalta let herself be rocked in his arms. “I really love mornings if it's to wake up like this... and there's time to enjoy it and talk a little. What will you do today Love? How do you start your morning?” Ryko yawned a little, then smiled as he cradled her. "Well, usually, I get up and hit the punchbag for about 15 minutes, that wakes me up, then a shower, dress and have breakfast, with review of duties, and all the other boring stuff. Then, there's time for a quick few minutes of working on my blade before I went on duty," Ryko said. "And you?" “I do different things every morning... yesterday should have been sword pratice, but today would be Klingon Tai Chi, it keeps me flexible and pomps me up in the morning.” "Sounds like fun," Ryko said. "I think since you're fixing that blade now, I may have to change my routine. But one thing puzzles me," he said, laying back a little. “What is it?” "You never told me if you had a nickname," Ryko said, smiling. “I never did.” Yalta was a bit surprised. “My nickname is my brother who gave it to me... Kricky... Do you know what that is?” "Kricky..." Ryko pondered. "Why would your brother nickname you after a subterranean flower?" Ryko asked “What are the particularities of this flower?” "Well," Ryko said. "It's bright, and it only grows once every 15 years, and..." Ryko smiled as it dawned on him. "It flourishes underground with flowers of the same type," he said. “When the wind blows, they make a sound... remember!” Ryko laughed. "I get it!" he said. "You know, when I first heard that noise, I thought it was a cricket or grasshopper," he said, finally realizing where her nickname had come from. “You got it now!” She chuckled and look at him. “I guess we will have to adapt are routine in the morning.” Ryko kissed her. "Even if the ship blew up right now, I wouldn't care," he said. "I'm with you, and when I'm with you, I'm already in heaven," he said. He hugged her close. “I know, I wish this hour would stretch infinitely but it can't... we can only enjoy this... Like we are right now.” Ryko caressed her gently. "I hate it when these times run out," Ryko said. "It makes me wish I lived on Baku," he said, laughing a little. “Humm... that would be nice... Love each other for nearly forever. Ryko rested his cheek lightly against the top of her head. He giggled a little as her hair tickled his face. "That would be paradise," he said. “Yes... It would.” She snuggled. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ End of Compile ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~