Compile break down: Mission: Healer in the Tower Day 194 (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office – CSO/2O Dale Bracken - 1106) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82 Corridor – CSO/2O Dale Bracken - 1115) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82 Quarters – CMO DR Nymes - 1117) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82 Quarters – CSO/2O Dale Bracken - 1118) (Starbase Geneva – Quarters – CMO Dr Nymes – 1125) (Starbase Geneva – Quarters – CSO/2O Dale Bracken – 1126) ********************************************************* Mission: Interlude Date: 2408.02.19 (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23 - Promenade, ACEO Lanista - 1003) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23 - Promenade, Entrepeneur Darm, 1004) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista, 1005) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade - Entepreneur Darm - 1007) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23 - Promenade - ACEO Lanista - 1008) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade - Entepreneur Darm - 1010) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista, 1012) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade - Entrepreneur Darm - 1014) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista - 1016) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista, 1020) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies, 13.00) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - CO Captain Archibald Stakes, 13.02) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies, 13.04) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - CO Captain Archibald Stakes, 13.06) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies , 13.10) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - CO Captain Archibald Stakes , 13.14) (Starbase Geneva, Sickbay, Dr Nymes, 1315) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies , 13.16) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 25, Promenade, Dr Nymes, 1320) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 25, Promenade, Ensign jg Sanok, 1321) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 65 - Mess Hall - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies - 1326) (Starbase Geneva – Deck 65 - Mess Hall - OPS - Ensign Cattia (Kit) Spero - 1327) (Starbase Geneva, Sickbay, Dr Nymes, 1330) Date: 2408.02.20 (Starbase Geneva - Deck 25, Promenade, Restaurant Le Chat Noir - CO Captain Archibald Stakes - 2005) (Starbase Geneva - Deck 25, Promenade - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 2007) (Starbase Geneva – la chat noire – The Wandering Minstrels (Night and Nymes) - 2015) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 25, Promenade, Restaurant Le Chat Noir, ACEO Lanista, 2017) ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2407.01.19 Day: 194 ********************************************************* (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office – CSO/2O Dale Bracken - 1106) "Welcome back, mister Bracken. I was informed of your return. You are well?" Dale took the offered hand, and nodded as she answered, “Been in the shuttle for I don’t know how long, but otherwise I’m well, eager to get back into the saddle to be honest.” "Regardless I wish you to see Doctor Nymes today for a thorough check up. You seem tired and heaven knows what you have been through. Probably more than us. I am under instructions not to ask you for any explanation or any details about what happened to you the past few days, but I am convinced that this is not the last that we hear of this." Again, Dale nodded, pushing a stray strand of hair back behind her ear. “No, I don’t doubt it for a second, I doubt that we’ll be sent back, but i suspect that something will filter from the murky depths of Fleet Intel.” Archibald nodded once. "Commander West is still missing but there is still a chance that he may return before we leave again. Unfortunately that is because we are currently ship-less and tied to this starbase. We intercepted a vessel which we believed held you and the Commander on board but in the chase the vessel fired upon us and the saucer section of the Dennison blew up as a result. The debriefing of this mission has just been concluded and I will be called before a board in inquiry. But there is little else to do here. The Dennison will be in spacedock for a year or so and we are, if unofficially, on permanent leave, Lieutenant. Some crew has been transferred to other ships and that will probably continue until a new ship becomes available. Whenever that is. Until then, Lieutenant, I think you would do well to rest, physically and mentally." Dale smiled, “Rest sounds good, a shower and a beer at minimum. Oh,” she remarked, “that reminds me, I found this in my flight bag, I rather suspect it’s from the Admiral, his family has a small distillery.” Dale reached into her flight bag, and withdrew a bottle. “I’ve no idea if you drink sir, but that looks like an awfully good malt whiskey, 23 years old according to the label?” Dale smiled, as she handed it over. “I did wonder if the date was significant, I rather suspect it’s an apology for...kidnapping me.” Once more Dale nodded, “Of course, with your permission Sir? I’ve a Doctor...and indeed a mother to see.” (posted by Mark) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82 Corridor – CSO/2O Dale Bracken - 1115) Dale had exited the office, and was making her way down a corridor that hopefully led to some crew that she recognised. People bustled past, carrying orders, Carrying PADDs or just walking, and laughing. She smiled, despite the loneliness that she felt. The Dennison, at least, the saucer section was gone, even when they replaced it, the Dennison would never feel the same. That said, it sounded like the Dennison would not be their next home. The loneliness grew.” “Lieutenant Bracken to Doctor Nymes, any chance that you can bully the med staff here into letting you check me over now I’m back?” (Reply Nymes) “I’m on 82, just come out of Stakes’s office.” (posted by Mark) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82 Quarters – CMO DR Nymes - 1117) =/\=Lieutenant Bracken to Doctor Nymes, any chance that you can bully the med staff here into letting you check me over now I’m back?=/\= Nymes sighed as the commcall came over the airwaves, muffled by the hustle and bustle that seems to be happening on the other end of the communiqué. “Nymes here. Lieutenant, I am sorry for your loss, too, I really am, but Marines are to be medically checked by the Marine CMO on Geneva.” Nymes sighed again. “But is there anything I can do?” =/\=I’m on 82, just come out of Stakes’s office.=/\= “I’m in my quarters. Feel free to drop by. Nymes out.” Nymes ended the commcall with a little trepidation in his heart. Dales mother was a formidable character; however hard Dee’s loss was to the trill, her mother’s grief would be unbearable, and Nymes wasn’t sure he could cope with consoling the mother of his best friend on the ship; a ship that had seen a third of it not return in peacetime. ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82 Quarters – CSO/2O Dale Bracken - 1118) =/\=Nymes here. Lieutenant, I am sorry for your loss, too, I really am, but Marines are to be medically checked by the Marine CMO on Geneva.=/\= Nymes sighed again. =/\= But is there anything I can do?=/\= “I’m on 82, just come out of Stakes’s office.” =/\=I’m in my quarters. Feel free to drop by. Nymes out.=/\= Dale smiled whimsically, she’d realised instantly what had happened, and laughed out loud as she anticipated the look on Lewis’ face, one or two people threw her an odd look as they passed, but said nothing. A few more steps down the corridor led her to a terminal, where she checked the route that she would have to take to reach Lewis’ quarters, moments later, armed with the knowledge, she headed toward the nearest turbolift. ==== (Starbase Geneva – Quarters – CMO Dr Nymes – 1125) The chime sounded; Nymes tapped on the lights from 10% to a more usual 90, and then uttered the unlock command, fully expecting a tide of grief; with his own sympathy prepared to join with it. (posted by GC) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Quarters – CSO/2O Dale Bracken – 1126) Dale stopped outside, trying desperately to force herself into her normally calm, collected demeanour, the joke wouldn’t work if she were too bubbly upon entering the room, no, her normal understated irony would be best. She hit the doorchime, still feeling the excitement of being reunited with Nymes. The door opened, silence spilled out into the corridor, the room, from what she could see of it was fairly Spartan, though one could tell that it was inhabited. She stepped into the room, allowing the tiniest of smiles to appear, whilst she enjoyed the look that had suddenly appeared on Lewis’ face. (Reply Nymes) There was no stopping herself, a genuine, warm smile ran over her, she could feel her cheeks burning slightly. She raised one eyebrow slightly as she spoke, trying desperately to sound resolved, and calm. “So do i get a welcome back hug, or are you going to stand there like an imbecile and gawp at me?” (posted by Mark) ********************************************************* Interlude Stardate: 2407.02.19 ********************************************************* (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23 - Promenade, ACEO Lanista - 1003) ~Darm. Dram. Like it mattered. Ferengi are all Ferengi. All of them very adept at calling bluffs – and this one is no different.~ Lanista thought. She had hoped to get the better of Darm. But when the trader barked "Down!", the Ensign misinterpreted the command as a cautionary remark to the Ferengi's Nausicaan employees to belay some aggressive move Lanista missed. Impulsively, Lanista moved her right hand to the grip of her Daqtagh knife. She wore Klingon attire – which culturally necessitated being armed. But no attack was launched. Lanista was disappointed by this. She didn't realize how much she'd wanted a combat. The Ferengi likely noticed the ACEO's move but refrained from commenting yet, instead saying, "Now fffen, HoD Laniffffta," he said to her with a smile as he took her arm, "Let uffff ffffee ifff we can affffifffft you. Obfffiouffffly fffiffff iffff important to you ffffo the priffffe we will diffffcufffff later. But jufffft ffffo fffat I can help you better. What iffff ffffje to you? Iffff ffffje your better and you wiffffj to greaffffe the pole a bit? I really need to know your relaffffjonffffjip ffffo I can fffffuggefffft a worffffy preffffent. And how young iffff young?" Lanista kept her hand on her weapon as she attempted to translate the short creature's peculiar attempts at communication. He reminded her of a character in the Klingon translation of the holonovel Lord of the Rings: ghol'lum. Lanista smiled at being addressed as HoD, Captain, by Ghol'lum. Keeping her eyes on the Nausicaans, tlha'nISta' said to Darm, "The woman is probably my age, 25 or so. I have not pried overmuch into her personal files. She is, you see, the daughter of my superior officer." The ACEO found she liked being addressed as Captain and so was careful not to imply her true rank in her responses to Darm. The Ferengi already knew her name, without their having been introduced, and that made Lanista uncomfortable. (Posted by FT) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23 - Promenade, Entrepeneur Darm, 1004) "The woman is probably my age, 25 or so. I have not pried overmuch into her personal files. She is, you see, the daughter of my superior officer." Darm looked at the Klingon for a second, then shot a stare at his palanquin carriers before the Ferengi 'pulled' his client along, the Nausicaans remaining behind as if glued to the spot. "Ahh, " Darm said, " Big greaffffepole job, ffffen. Fffftranffffj, I did not know ffffat Lieutenant Atwood had ffftjildren. He ffffeemffff ffffo young. Ohhhhhh! I ffffee! Offf couffffe! Ha ha ha ha. You mean Miffff Effffme, don't you? Yeffff, ffffery big greaffffepole job. Ohhh, fffforry." With his hand Darm started to swipe off some of his spit that had landed on the Klingon's arm. "But I ffffee now. Ffffat iffff a worffffy taffffk ffffor Darm, entepreneur ecfffftraordinair. How many caffffeffff offf Romulan Ale are we talking about? Ffffiffff might cofffft you. A giffft, ffffit ffffor a prinffffeffff. I do apologiffffe." He produced a piece of cloth with which he started to dab the Klingon's arm. "Perhapffff a dark ffffuaffffe ffffeeffffrough negliffffje? Hmmm, perhapffff not, iffff I underfffftand correctly ffffen Miffff Effffme may like it but dear ffffaffffer Fffftakeffff would ffffertainly not. No, it haffff to be ffffomeffffing ffffmall, but ffffolid. Yet it hafffff to be a preffffent beffffitting a warrior'ffff hand." Darm looked at the Klingon, dabbed a bit more then shook his head. "Difffficult, I mufffft admit. Do you hafffe any ffffoughtffff on ffffe fffffubject?" (posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista, 1005) When Darm pulled Lanista away from the Nausicaans, the Klingon/Vulcan woman was not particular pleased at being touched by the Ferengi. She was even less pleased by being spit on (more than once). She tried to remember if, in her past dealing with the species, it was insulting to suggest a Ferengi seek out either a dentist and/or a speech therapist. But it was more disconcerting that this stranger identified Atwood as Lanista's superior officer – not because this was wrong but because Lanista was not wearing her uniform. There was nothing to show her affiliation to Starfleet (save a 2290's vintage Starfleet 'arrowhead' badge worn as a belt buckle), let alone her ship assignment. This little creature knew too much about her. Lanista growled slightly -- and involuntarily. It was an instinctual response to being offended. A reflex. Her hand hadn't yet come away from her weapon, and now she'd drawn the blade part way out of its sheath. She only barely checked her increasing anger when the little 'thing' of a trader continued his attempted negotiations. "Difffficult, I mufffft admit. Do you hafffe any ffffoughtffff on ffffe fffffubject?" Ghol'lum had said. "Yefff, I had fffoughfff perhapfff a jinaq or a dagger," she said, now deliberately mocking an entity she had only moments ago flattered rather shamelessly. Lanista completely omitted any reference to how much Romulan ale she possessed... (Posted by FT) ==== (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade - Entepreneur Darm - 1007) Darm nearly grinned broadly when he heard a deep growl emanate from the Klingon's throat. ~Yes, this is life! How quickly they forget when the fire is nearing the toes. Naah, only a Ferengi will always act like a Ferengi. Which reminds me.~ With a strange mixture of glee and trepidation he watched the Klingon pull out her dagger. True, the Nausicaans were now quite far away but even so, they were so drugged up they wouldn't be a match for a Klingon anyway. Unfortunately that was the only way you could actually get some respect from those beasts. But still, they create a pretty picture. And that was all that Darm was interested in. "Yefff, I had fffoughfff perhapfff a jinaq or a dagger," Lanista said. ~Still she wants to do business,~ Darm thought elated and decided to go even one step further in displaying his mastery. He slowly opened his jacket and retrieved a small case that he opened and showed the contents to Lanista. "Pretty, no?" he said as he deftly took the transparent set of false teeth out of the holder, shaking them slightly so that the metallic Latinum inside sloshed around. "Could buy a fffftarffffjip wifff one of ffffeffffe." With a grin he placed the false teeth in his mouth and moved them around a few times with his tongue until they slid in place. He smiled broadly, showing off his dentures. "Ok," he said, " So a dagger? Must be careful with that. It will only be appropriate if it is shaped like the person it is intended for. So, for miss Stakes, hmmm, petite in girth, I would say with a definite point. Long and slender..." Darm broke into a wide grin, showing his 'babies' off again. ~If you got them, flaunt them. Too bad it was a hewman expression. It would have been a grand Rule of Acquisition.~ "It just so happens that one of my associates would have just such a blade. A bit flashy for my taste but I believe hewman women would like it very much. You can find him in the 'Arcadium Extradomum', just a few blocks to the east of here. Tell Maragu that I sent you and he will make you a decent deal. It will be in his best interest. That will be one case of Romulan Ale. I might actually split that with him. It is so difficult for him to get some 'home-brew' on Hewman star bases." Darm nodded friendly. "Now then, I couldn't help but noticing your d'k tahg. The scabbard seems a bit worn. Do you wish me to provide you with a replacement? Slightly difficult to get one but ... for the right price. Of course our wares are all genuine. Shall we say two more cases? Oh, and just in case you wondered why I would not require payment in advance, I know all about you. You, on the other hand, know nothing about me. That would put me squarely in the lead, wouldn't you say?" (Posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23 - Promenade - ACEO Lanista - 1008) "Could buy a fffftarffffjip wifff one of ffffeffffe," the Ferengi said, making Lanista wonder what she might be able to accomplish with a starship -- whether it be one she was assigned to or one she purchased. When the merchant smiled a false-toothed grin, Lanista wasn't sure the look was an improvement. ~I wonder what else about this ... thing ... is a falsehood,~ she wondered. "It just so happens that one of my associates would have just such a blade. A bit flashy for my taste but I believe hewman women would like it very much..." said the Ferengi. He went on to provide a name of a shop and its general location. That made Lanista quite happy. She would soon be done with this creature. "I'm afraid I've only got the one case of ale to trade, and I like my scabbard just the way it is, thank you. But if you're interested in more Romulan wares, I might be able to put you in touch with my father. He's far more likely to come into more than I am." After babbling a while longer, the Ferengi ultimately ended with, "...That would put me squarely in the lead, wouldn't you say?" ~Yes, fine. Think you've got the better of me. If I want to be rid of the ale, who has really won the day?~ Lanista thought. "Certainly you are the more talented negotiator. It is your stock in trade, is it not?" she said to the diminutive being, shifting back to flattery. "As to the case, where would you like it sent?" (Posted by FT) ==== (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade - Entepreneur Darm - 1010) "Certainly you are the more talented negotiator. It is your stock in trade, is it not?" the Klingon said, earning her a gracious smile from Darm. "As to the case, where would you like it sent?" Darm thought for a second. "You are stationed on the Dennison, are you not? Please deliver the case to Miss Hikaru. I promised her the first case I could lay my hands on. Maragu will have to wait a bit longer. But I am sure he will understand. She is a good custo......" "Now, now, then," a voice suddenly boomed behind them, a voice that Darm easily recognised. "Up to your old tricks again, Darm? Is he troubling you, ma'm?" Sighing Darm turned round and looked up at the tall security guard. "Not at all, officer," he said, having caught himself again. "Miss Lanista was just inquiring after a fitting birthday present for the daughter of her CO. And of course I was only too happy to oblige her." "Sure, Darm, just being a knight in shining armour, right? A very SHORT knight in shining armour." The man grinned broadly at his own crude joke as he quickly scanned the Klingon before turning his attention to the Ferengi again. "So you are saying that she is Starfleet and you are just helping her? Pull the other one, Darm. I know a set-up when I see one. Especially where you are concerned. Mind you, you do make things quite easy for us. Your lies are so easy to pick out. You lie every time you open your mouth. So shall we start again? What is going on here." "Nothing, Officer Brady," Darm responded with a weak smile. "Just like I said, Miss Lanista was looking for a birthday present and I helped her find one, that is all." "That is all," the man imitated Darm. "Sure thing, Darm, and cows are blue and pigs float in the sky. Now either you tell me exactly what is going on or you can spend another week in our brig. It's up to you." Darm fell silent for a second but then stared back at the man. "If I remember correctly, the last time you threw me in the brig for no reason at all, I was released four hours later with a full apology from your squad commander. And you received a public dressing down, if I remember correctly. The law does state that you require some kind of evidence and if I undertood your commander correctly, just walking on the promenade did not constitute any kind of evidence of foul play. Unless they brought out a new rulebook, officer?" The security guard snarled and looked like he was ready to manhandle the Ferengi. But after a period of heavy breathing, he growled: "Don't think you have won, you Ferengi worm. I'll be watching you, day and night and when you make a mistake, I'll be there and a lynching party will be the best you could look forward to." The guard suddenly turned round and walked away leaving Darm staring at the man's back. "A wonderful invention, this Federation justice. Truly remarkable. All people are equal under the eyes of the Federation. It is unfortunate that Ferengis do not seem to be classed as people." Darm sighed, not really aware of the Klingon still being there. "I was not born a Ferengi by choice. But regardless I am to bear the cross for it. For all other races, the individual can rise above their background, but once a Ferengi, always a worm. Truly remarkable." Darm suddenly remembered his 'audience' and he turned round. "My apologies, Miss Lanista. It is not nice to see the hidden shadows of such a wonderful culture. You truly should be thankful that you are part of Star Fleet. Regardless of their recent issues, they still see and regard the individual, not her or his background. It is at times like these that I would love to return to my earlier days as quartermaster on the USS Boudicca. I was pretty good at that, you know? Made a lot of friends there too. People who did not mind my big ears or short stature. Hmmmm, I wonder... no, she'd never have me back. Besides could I walk away from all of this? Even if it means I could walk away from THEM too?" (Posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista, 1012) Lanista watched the exchange between Darm and PO Brady. The Klingon female perceived Brady to be without honor, and she was about to speak up – not on the Ferengi's behalf, but to point out that Brady was a disgrace to the Starfleet uniform. But the man had turned and gone before Lanista thought to voice a complaint. Besides, she didn't like Darm enough to want to seem as though she was coming to his defense. "My apologies, Miss Lanista," Darm then said. "It is not nice to see the hidden shadows of such a wonderful culture. You truly should be thankful that you are part of Star Fleet. Regardless of their recent issues, they still see and regard the individual, not her or his background. It is at times like these that I would love to return to my earlier days as quartermaster on the USS Boudicca. I was pretty good at that, you know? Made a lot of friends there too. People who did not mind my big ears or short stature. Hmmmm, I wonder... no, she'd never have me back. Besides could I walk away from all of this? Even if it means I could walk away from THEM too?" "A very wise leader of a Klingon House once said likened the Federation to root beer, Darm. He said it was 'bubbly and cloying, and happy' but he added that 'if you drink enough of it, you begin to like it,'" Lanista said. "If need to decide if you like 'root beer' enough to do something about it. For my part, if we're done I have other things to attend to." (Posted by FT) ==== (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade - Entrepreneur Darm - 1014) "A very wise leader of a Klingon House once said likened the Federation to root beer, Darm. He said it was 'bubbly and cloying, and happy' but he added that 'if you drink enough of it, you begin to like it,'" Lanista said. "If need to decide if you like 'root beer' enough to do something about it. For my part, if we're done I have other things to attend to." Darm looked at the Klingon, then looked forward. "Some people will require a sea of root beer," he said then sighed. "You ever tried it? Ghastly drink. But the only thing Master Bellephoron would ever touch. Not easy to obtain either, strangely enough. The real stuff, anyway. Nope, harder to get than a case of fifteen year old bloodwine. But if the customer wants it, then Darm will oblige. Good old Darm." The Ferengi snapped his mouth shut then looked at the Klingon, took a step back and regarded her once again. "You know? I still think that scabbard looks wrong. Tell you what, I'll have an associate drop the replacement off tomorrow and you can wear it for a while and see how you like it. Then next time you land on this starbase you can either return it or we will do business. It's a nice piece, sculpted after the scabbard of Kahless by the Klingon master smith K'ron. I heard it was quite sought after by certain factions within the Klingon High Command. But I believe it will befit you much better. And I doubt that we won't be doing business later on. It IS a fine piece." Darm nodded to Lanista then took his mouthpiece out and placed it back in its holder which disappeared in one of the pockets on the inside of his jacket. "I'm poffffitefffely ffffure, Miffff Laniffffta, ffffat we will do buffffineffff. Until we meet again, it haffff been a pleaffffure, warrior daughter. And my beffft wiffffjeffff to your fffaffffer. He fffffold me ffffe ffffcabard in ffffe fffirfffft plaffffe when he waffff in need offf ffffome quick caffffj. Offf courffffe I obliged. What iffff a bit offf Latinum between fffriendfffff, eh? Good journey, Laniffffta." He nodded at the Klingon then turned to walk away. (Posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista - 1016) Lanista breathed a sigh of relief as the Ferengi departed. She didn't like the species, even though she did consider a Ferengi energy whip one of her favored weapons. She started off 'eastward' – though in Lanista's opinion something like a starbase should have different terms of reference, 'east' was what Darm had said. ~East to Arcadium Extradomum,~ she thought. That was where Darm had said to go initially. The merchant had said something about a person/entity/being named Maragu, and that he/she/it might have a blade worth buying for Esme. And Darm had seemed to imply that Maragu would consider Romulan ale to be 'home-brew' – though that didn't necessarily mean Maragu was Romulan. ~Oh, won't that be interesting…~ Lanista thought. (Starbase Geneva - Deck 23, Promenade, ACEO Lanista, 1020) The alien Amazon sauntered into Arcadium Extradomum once she'd found it. Without addressing anyone present, she began looking around at the merchandise. (Posted by FT) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies, 13.00) Alex walked along the corridor of starbase Geneva after the short Runabout trip from the Academy, he was walking quickly as he was really excited. ~Can't believe I passed and are really about to be posted on a really active star ship~ As he walked along deck 82 looking for Dennison CO temporary Office, several crewman passed him. They all nodded to him. It was the first time it had ever happened to him, when he had been young onboard ships with his mum and dad he had always seen crewman do it to their senior officers. He came around a corner and found the room he was looking for and knocked on the door. ~Here we go,~ (posted Tom) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - CO Captain Archibald Stakes, 13.02) Archibald looked up as he heard a knock on the door and he flicked the switch that opened the door. He got up whilst closing down his computer screen, having just received the personnel file of the newest arrival, a certain Ensign Jefferies. The man that entered his office certainly looked like the photograph that he had just seen. "Ensign Jefferies? Welcome on board. I am Captain Stakes, your commanding officer." Archibald extended his hand for the Ensign to shake. Archibald nodded at the man. "Unfortunately you catch us between ships, Mister Jefferies. Our previous vessel was badly damaged during our last mission and our new vessel hasn't materialised yet. So for now there is little activity that will be required of you. However, I feel I must make clear to you that I run a tight ship, Ensign. A VERY tight ship. If you follow the rules and regulations to the letter we will get along splendidly. If, not, then I am afraid you will be facing a very difficult period in your life. Talking of which, your personnel file wasn't very clear on your previous life. Sit down and tell me a bit about yourself." (posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies, 13.04) "Unfortunately you catch us between ships, Mister Jefferies. Our previous vessel was badly damaged during our last mission and our new vessel hasn't materialised yet. So for now there is little activity that will be required of you. However, I feel I must make clear to you that I run a tight ship, Ensign. A VERY tight ship. If you follow the rules and regulations to the letter we will get along splendidly. If, not, then I am afraid you will be facing a very difficult period in your life. Talking of which, your personnel file wasn't very clear on your previous life. Sit down and tell me a bit about yourself." Alex took a moment or too to have a quick look around the office he then walked forward and took a seat in front of Stakes before answering. "Well sir firstly i'd like to say thank you for this opportunity you have given me and as for my previous life well it's not a very interesting story, i was born in a small town in England, both of my parents are starfleet officers. So i spent all of my childhood switching from star ship to star ship all depending on where my parents where posted at the time. I know that some people may not think that a star ship is the place for a child but i tend to disagree as i've seen a lot more then most people of my age. For example i have all ready been to most of the federation core worlds like Vulcan, Tellar and Andoria and i feel that the time i spent on star ships as a child has helped me prepare for the task of joining starfleet. Which is something i've wanted to do ever since i was young to sort of follow in my fathers foot steps as it were." ~hope that didn't sound to bad as i hate talking about myself~ Alex looked back towards his new captain and waited for his reply (posted by Tom Hughes) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - CO Captain Archibald Stakes, 13.06) "Well sir firstly i'd like to say thank you for this opportunity you have given me and as for my previous life well it's not a very interesting story, i was born in a small town in England, both of my parents are starfleet officers. So i spent all of my childhood switching from star ship to star ship all depending on where my parents where posted at the time. I know that some people may not think that a star ship is the place for a child but i tend to disagree as i've seen a lot more then most people of my age. For example i have all ready been to most of the federation core worlds like Vulcan, Tellar and Andoria and i feel that the time i spent on star ships as a child has helped me prepare for the task of joining starfleet. Which is something i've wanted to do ever since i was young to sort of follow in my fathers foot steps as it were." Archibald nodded. "Not an uncommon story, Ensign." he replied as he sat down and flipped open his screen again. "It is often the structure that Star Fleet parents provide that makes it easier, if you will, for the children to adhere to Star Fleet surroundings. I myself was not so lucky, but my wife was. It is not just a blessing, I have observed. There are other ... complications." He didn't go into details what those complications would be but went on. "Thank you for being this candid. Now than, work. Even though we are stuck on this base, you are not to think that that would mean an easy life. There is always enough work to do, especially for Operations officers. I wish you to contact Ensign Spero, our resident highest ranking operations officer and report to her for work detail. She will then take you under her wings. Then, if you have some spare time, I want you to arrange a meeting with Lieutenant Bracken. That is Star Fleet Lieutenant Bracken, not Marine Lieutenant Bracken, that is her mother. Lieutenant Bracken is currently our second officer as our First Officer is missing in action. So, unless there is something that you would like to discuss?" (Reply Alex, room for more) Finally Archibald got up. "Well, then, Ensign, dismissed. And again, welcome on board, even there is no board yet to welcome you on." (posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies , 13.10) 'Thank you for being this candid. Now than, work. Even though we are stuck on this base, you are not to think that that would mean an easy life. There is always enough work to do, especially for Operations officers. I wish you to contact Ensign Spero, our resident highest ranking operations officer and report to her for work detail. She will then take you under her wings. Then, if you have some spare time, I want you to arrange a meeting with Lieutenant Bracken. That is Star Fleet Lieutenant Bracken, not Marine Lieutenant Bracken, that is her mother. Lieutenant Bracken is currently our second officer as our First Officer is missing in action. So, unless there is something that you would like to discuss?' Alex shock his head. 'no sir that will be all.' Finally Archibald got up. 'Well, then, Ensign, dismissed. And again, welcome on board, even there is no board yet to welcome you on.' Alex was about to leave when he realised he didn't know where he was likely to find Ensign Spero, he turned back to Captain Stakes ~god i hope he doesn't think i'm stupid for asking this~ 'actually sir there is on thing, where am i likely to find Ensign Spero?' (Posted by Tom) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - CO Captain Archibald Stakes , 13.14) "Actually sir there is on thing, where am I likely to find Ensign Spero?" Archibald looked at his computer screen for the time. "At this time she will probably enjoy her lunch. She normally takes it in the messhall on Deck 65. The information consoles that are found all around the starbase will direct you to the messhall." Archibald regarded the young Ensign for a second. "Make a note of it, Ensign. Miss Spero is punctual and dependable. That stands her in good stead in my eyes. And that means it stands her in good stead in Star Fleet's eyes. You would do well to remember that." Archibald nodded to the man then stared at his desk for a moment. "Gelling with the crew will stand you in good stead as well, Mister Jefferies. We are, after all, one family, depending on every single one of us for our safety, for our survival out there. My daughter, who is a part of the crew as well, will have a secret birthday party tomorrow afternoon. Mister Spero will no doubt be able to fill you in on the details." Archibald nodded to him as he sat down on his desk, his left leg dangling over the edge of the desk. "Of course, it would be improper of me to command attendance, so I won't. But you could do worse, I reckon. If that is all, Mister Jefferies you are, as they say, dismissed." (Posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Sickbay, Dr Nymes, 1315) Nymes sat waiting in sickbay, the slow but steady trade that was station-medicine a welcome change from the infrequent but serious conditions he had to treat on a ship. He had been, once again, absorbed into the Geneva medical team in his down time from the Dennison, and was – as a CMO in name – helping with the A&E side of things as a team leader. A call had come in regarding a fire, but the comm. Traffic had be garbled, and a location wasn’t forthcoming – and station-ops hadn’t been able to localise it. Nodding to the station’ doctors as Ops finally got a location for them, Nymes took a pair of paramedics with him – and all the kit they might need – to the fire. ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 82, Dennison CO temporary Office - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies , 13.16) Archibald nodded to him as he sat down on his desk, his left leg dangling over the edge of the desk. "Of course, it would be improper of me to command attendance, so I won't. But you could do worse, I reckon. If that is all, Mister Jefferies you are, as they say, dismissed." "thank you sir" with that Alex left the CO temporary office and headed along the corridor of deck 82, he stop at a computer terminal so he locate the nearest turbo lift, he found it was just around the corner. after a slow walk he entered the turbo lift "deck Deck 65 messhall" Alex felt the shudder of the lift as it began on it's upward journey towards deck 65 the turbo lift slowed then stopped. ==== (Starbase Geneva, Deck 25, Promenade, Ensign jg Sanok, 1321) "Honestly, Gentlemen, I can't leave you alone for a second, can I?" said Nymes, as he scanned Sanok and Ben while they sat on a bench, resting after their ordeal in the fire. "How are you both feeling?" Sanok glanced at Ben, who seemed to get the worst of it, as something from the ceiling of the restaurant had fallen on him, giving him several burns. "I am fine, Doctor," said Sanok. "I inhaled smoke, but a medic gave me oxygen." After Ben replied, the doctor continued. "Right. I'm sure station ops want to debrief you, but let's get you sorted first. How long were you in that fire?" "Less than ten minutes," said Sanok. He could have given the time down to the second, but was too tired to do that. Besides, they were fine, and Nymes was being too cautious, though it was his responsibility to make sure they were well. The doctor gave both security officers an injection of a drug that would help them breath better, then said he expected them to come to sickbay. "That won't be necessary, Doctor," said Sanok, breathing much better. "I am fine. I will need to clean up and change my uniform, but I am fit to immediately return to duty." Doctor Nymes was called away to treat an injured firefighter, so Sanok turned to face Ben. "You are burned, so you should go to sickbay for treatment. I will begin filling out my report on this incident." Sanok expected that Ben wouldn't want to go, but he had to make sure his burn didn't become infected. Something wasn't right about what happened in the Hyperion Inn, and the sooner Sanok could get back to duty, the sooner he could try to find out just what that was. (Posted by Bob) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Deck 25, PromenadeDr Nymes, 1320) “Honestly, Gentlemen, I can’t leave you alone for a second, can I?” Nymes asked rhetorically as his tricorder returned non-too serious scans from the soot-stained officers sitting in front of him “How are you both feeling?” (reply Sanok/soma) “Right. I’m sure station ops want to debrief you, but lets get you sorted first. How long were you in that fire?” (reply) Nymes nodded, the men both affirming the tricorder findings. “Well, this drug will help you with your breathing,” he said, applying the hypospray. “And I want to you both to come to Sickbay for a more thorough scan. And if you have any problems, come see me.” (reply any) “Over here doctor!” A shout came from one of the firefighters over to the trill’s left. “Whats happened?” The man winced as his partner explained. “He slipped on the floor, landed on the display, shard of glass in his leg and its bleeding..” Nymes immediately saw the wound as the man lay wincing in pain clutching his leg, a scarlet pool blossoming around his recumbent figure. “Help over here please!” he ordered, before exposing the wound as fully as he could, noticing the patient was in shock, bleeding out. “Whats your name, crewman?” “Fred... Hollis, cr-crewman s-second... firefight...” he tried to respond. “Thats okay, Fred, I want you to carry on talking to me, okay? Keep talking to me while I do this. I’m Dr Nymes, by the way.” “N-nice to me-et you si-ir.” Fred tried to talk, quietening down as he finished each and every sentence, while the trill exposed the wound and saw the laceration of the artery was causing the trouble he had presumed it would. Enough was enough, and Nymes had done as much first aid as was available – Hollis was as stable as he was going to be before Nymes could move him. “Nymes to Ops. 2 to beam direct to Sickbay, Auth Charlie five delta, CMO Dennison.” “Understood. Energising.” ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 65 - Mess Hall - A-OPS Ensign (jg) Jefferies - 1326) Alex walked out onto the deck he looked around for a tell tell sign of the messhall, he got it when he saw several people with plates exiting a room he walked along the corridor and entered the messhall. he stopped to look at all the people who where present. ~damn how thw hell i'm i ment to know which one is Ensign Spero~ he studied the crowd for a few moments ~well here goes nothing~ Alex picked the only person sat by them self and walked over to her ~if this isn't them i'm going to look really stupid~ "hi are you Ensign Spero" (posted Tom) ==== (Starbase Geneva – Deck 65 - Mess Hall - OPS - Ensign Cattia (Kit) Spero - 1327) "Hi are you Ensign Spero?" Kit looked up from her meal - basically a generous selection of fresh fruit - to see a medium-sized male ensign looking down at her with a half-hopeful, half nervous expression. The newness of his uniform, together with an indefinable look in his eyes, suggested that he was only recently graduated from the Academy. "Who wants to know?" she asked, in a not-unfriendly tone. (reply Jefferies) "Full marks for deduction," Kit said. "I am indeed Ensign Spero but since we're going to be working together, you can call me Kit," she said with a smile. "Have you had lunch yet, Alex? If not, you can share mine. They always serve too much, and its quite good really. Sit down," she added indicating the empty seat opposite her. (reply Jefferies) Kit selected an apple from the fruit on her tray and bit into it. "I do like fresh fruit," she said after swallowing her bite. "And you don't always get that on a starship. So you met the Old Man? What did he tell you?" (Posted by Liz Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Sickbay, Dr Nymes, 1330) “Femoral Artery laceration, bleeding out. Prep theatre, crossmatch and notify surgeon of the day.” Nyems said once he rematerialised. He took it upon himself to place the lines needed forthe surgery, and while the surgeon prepped, the trill had stabilised the man to the best of his ability. As the anaesthetist and surgeon took over, Nymes stood back, leaning on the wall, knowing a job had been done – whether well enough, given the quantity of blood Fred had lost, it would be too hard to say until the operation had been completed. (posted by GC) ********************************************************* Interlude Stardate: 2407.02.20 ********************************************************* (Starbase Geneva - Deck 25, Promenade, Restaurant Le Chat Noir - CO Captain Archibald Stakes - 2005) Archibald regarded the set-up once again, receiving a 'look' from Mei Ling as he did so. He smiled somewhat apologetically to her for a fraction of a second then continued his scan. Esme was his daughter after all. And he was under Admiral's orders. Having completed his sweep, Archibald's gaze rested on one person, sitting alone near the windows, hunched behind what apeared to be a glass of champagne. Archibald narrowed his eyes and was about to approach the lone figure when someone suddenly hissed and the lights went out. The CO cursed inwardly but then turned his gaze towards the door of the restaurant which opened and when suddenly the lights came back on and almost all of the occupents shouted happy birthday Archibald made his way forward to the crowd that was now centering on the three girls. He pushed one or two 'well-wishers' away to finally reach her and hugged her, wishing her many happy returns. "Dad!" Esme said with a hint of happy annoyance. "You knew about this and you didn't tell me?" "I wouldn't let him," Mei Ling spoke out. "I made him promise to keep the secret." ~Well, only partly. Organise something that will keep her occupied for a while, I said." he thought, "Just something simple, I said. Perhaps a few candles, some friends, I said. As I was instructed to say. And I always follow orders.~ His glance quickly swerved to the back of the restaurant to see if they were still there then turned back to see Mei Ling giving Esme a small package "Happy birthday, Esme!" she said. "Oh you shouldn't!" Esme said, blushing. "Nonsense, of course I should," Mei Ling retorted, smiling as Esme untied the packet. Inside was a small box, which Esme opened. Her mouth made a small O of delight as she saw nestled inside the pair of earrings that Mei Ling had carefully chosen with stones to match the colour of Esme's eyes. "Oh, thank you Mei Ling!" Esme said, her eyes shining. "They're beautiful! Look, Dad!" "Very ... uhhh, nice, Esme," Archibald said not really understanding why two earrings would be such a big deal. But then again he never understood the importance of the question: "Do I look OK in this?", so he steadfastly responded. "Oh yes, you look very nice, Lydia." much to the chagrin of his wife. It simply did not click that looking nice, or even very nice was not the required answer, even if it was true. It had to be special, magic or words to that effect. Archibald shrugged as he let the other well-wishers swarm around Esme and he took a step back until he remembered something. He turned and approached the now standing Tactical Chief. Seeing that she still carried a now empty glass, Archibald deftly grabbed two new glasses and presented one to Joan. "Your good health, Lieutenant," Archibald said and he raised his own glass and took a small sip. He turned around to watch Esme and as he did so, he said softly: "Family, Lieutenant. That's what it is all about. Family. And when times are hard, the family looks at the father and the mother to give guidance and reassurance. The family does not remember what mistakes either parent made, only if they provide assurance, safety, a look forward. Don't dwell on what you could have done, or should have done. Dwell on what you did and how you are going to learn from it. I will see you in my office tomorrow at nine hundred hours sharp. And if you don't smile within the next two seconds, I am going to rip your bl**dy sour face off. It's her bl**dy birthday!" Archibald looked her in the eyes for a second then turned back, smiling warmly at Esme as she spotted him, raising his glass to salute her until she smiled and turned to speak to the next well-wisher. "Tomorrow morning at nine, Lieutenant," Archibald said as he made his way to the back of the restaurant. (Posted by Adrie Geuken) ==== (Starbase Geneva - Deck 25, Promenade - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 2007) Raising her glass to Mia, she said, "Cheers, we did!" Mia smiled as the Petty Officer drank. "And without getting thrown in the brig either." She asked the waiter for a glass of juice. She didn't much care what type, but she'd never been the type for alcohol, even synthahol. She'd didn't quite understand the fascination with acting like someone other than yourself and most of them tasted vile, even to her limited sense of taste. (Reply Nicklaus) "So.. uhm.. what does one normally do at one of these things?" Mia asked. She'd been to a few naming ceremonies, a few mating acknowledgements, a few master of the hunt assignments, but the air breathers seemed to do everything differently. She didn't think it likely they'd spend the evening teaching each other new skills and sharing stories. There were no projectors for sketching out hunts, for starters. At the wedding she'd been invited on for the Boudicca .. in Texas .. It had consisted of people talking, practicing mating warm-ups and eating. Surely there was more constructive plans for the evening? Not that she considered shopping constructive, really, she'd probably end up putting most of what she'd gained today into the donation bins. Actually, she hoped most of the evening consisted of 'sitting on ass.' (Posted by Lorna) ==== (Starbase Geneva – la chat noire – The Wandering Minstrels (Night and Nymes) - 2015) Nymes nodded to Ele as the people continued to crowd around the birthday girl and started to play a smooth jazz piece on the piano in the corner of the room; his manner relaxed from the excitement earlier on in the day. Smiling as he was in his black suit – a suit that was his trademark when he and Ele played together, he let his fingers run up the keys before Ele joined in with her song. It was a quiet number, unobtrusive and fitting for the birthday girl. Ele was dressed in her fetching black dress, her hair swept over one shoulder, a gold necklace around her neck. As the CONN officer dedicated the song to the guest of honour, both the human and the trill fell backwards into the comfortable feeling of playing a gig for their friends. “As you all know, ladies and gentlemen, we have a birthday girl with us today.” Ele said, smiling, “So we figured that it’s high time that we had some decent music once again.” (reply any) “We’ll take it from the top, Lewis!” she said, and launched into their swing and jazz set, giving everyone present a chance to dance, to forget themselves just for one evening. (posted by GC) ==== (Starbase Geneva, Deck 25, Promenade, Restaurant Le Chat Noir, ACEO Lanista, 2017) Lanista, in Klingon-style furs with Vulcan accessories, entered the establishment carrying two cases of beverages for Mei Ling Hikaru (one of bloodwine atop one of Romulan ale) and a black lacquered box containing a blade for the guest of honor. The station was quite large, and it had taken her a while to find the eatery that was the location of the Age of Inclusion Ritual. The ACEO of (two-thirds of) the Dennison eyed the room, looking for those few shipmates she'd met and would recognize… which wouldn't be many at all. Circumstances of the last mission had made getting acquainted inconvenient if not actually difficult. Lanista crossed to the bar and set the cases down. She put the ale aside, opened the bloodwine crate and took a bottle. While the Wandering Minstrels performed their number, Lanista moved from the bar to a nearby table and sat down with her bloodwine. She carefully set the box containing her gift for Esmeralda Stakes on the table. (Posted by FT) ******************************************************************** Th.th.th.th.th.th.th.th.that's all, Folks!