<div dir="auto">Thanks.  Just starting to settle in. Next stop… sickbay. </div><div><br><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr" class="gmail_attr">On Sat, Jan 27, 2024 at 4:52 PM Mark Howard <<a href="mailto:mark.howard9@gmail.com">mark.howard9@gmail.com</a>> wrote:<br></div><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="margin:0 0 0 .8ex;border-left:1px #ccc solid;padding-left:1ex"><div dir="auto">Aww...<div dir="auto">Lovely post you two.</div></div><br><div class="gmail_quote"><div dir="ltr" class="gmail_attr">On Sun, 28 Jan 2024, 00:47 Al Muir via Hades-rpg, <<a href="mailto:hades-rpg@startrekfreedom.com" target="_blank">hades-rpg@startrekfreedom.com</a>> wrote:<br></div><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="margin:0 0 0 .8ex;border-left:1px #ccc solid;padding-left:1ex"><div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt" id="m_-5385318948224130035m_2552597069923988009docs-internal-guid-fa539b5b-4d87-39fa-00b6-0b1e25f8953e"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue';color:#313131;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Mission: First Furlough</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue';color:#313131;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Day: 2</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue';color:#313131;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Stardate:2446.07.21</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue';color:#313131;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">(USS Hades - Deck 2 - Transporter Room 1 - CSec - Lt.  Cal Dogan and COB Chief Sytuk  - 1330)</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">After his meeting with the captain Cal figured that he needed to spend his time getting used to the layout of this new ship.  He’s already done his research and knew that deck plans, and where everything was.  But he needed to actually see and be there.  He knew that there was an ineffable feel to places.  Deck by deck he walked the corridors.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dec 2’s big item was the Captain’s Quarters and the Confwrence Room.  He made a note on his PADD to do a deep scan of the area, looking for hidden weak points.  Then he went down to deck 3.  Officer’s quarters and fuel storage.  He thought that an odd combination.  Cal’s level of trust was not as high as the CO’s.  There would definitely be a hard look into the backgrounds of the crew living on this deck… including the senior officers.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Deck 4 were enlisted quarters and guest quarters.  It was here that he ran into the first signs of life.  A small girl was running through the halls.  She bumped into the Brikar and bounced off with a squeak and fell to the ground.  She slowly looked up to behold a sight that she had never seen before. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Wow you're as big as a mountain sir.” She said, absolutely stunned by the sheer size of the Brikar officer.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Cal looked down at the child, his face making an odd formation. “That has been said of me.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">The child stood up. “ I was on my way to Mr. Sytuk's quarters to drop off a new blanket for Bugsy.” She said and held up a small light blue blanket that was way too small for a humanoid.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">He looked on his PADD and typed in the name Bugsy, but nothing came up. “Bugsy?  Bugsy must be quite small.  Who are you?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“My name is Leslie, my mommy is an engineer.” The girl said to him. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">He tapped the name Leslie onto his PADD and same three names come up. Only one was a child. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Leslie Decker,” he was more talking to himself, “daughter of Valerie Decker.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“ Yep, that's her.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“And where is your mother now?” he began his inquisition. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“ She is working right now.” Leslie answered </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Who is in charge of you while your mother is on duty?” he continued.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Our Holo-nanny in the quarters and Mrs. Mallory during school. Mommy says I'm only permitted on deck 4 and even has my commbraclet coded with restrictions. I can't access the turbolift or the holosuite on this deck. I can visit the rec room, but I don't go there when Joey is there. He's mean.” Leslie responded the way a child would. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan nodded seriously, “A wise precaution.”  He was also aware that children, especially human children, were more like rats and found ways to get into things when bored. “Starships can be dangerous places for younglings.”  He paused for a moment then asked, Who is this Joey?  Sounds like I should meet him.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Leslie nodded. “ He's Joey Schmidt, his daddy works in a lab and Joey says his daddy is a very important person, but I don't believe anything Joey says, not after he tried ripping the head off a doll I had.” The girl said as her eyes widened. “ I have an idea!” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“An idea,” Cal said, straightening in surprise. “Please expand.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“If we go to the rec room and Joey is there I doubt he'll be mean if he sees you. Maybe he'll run away.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I do have that effect on people,” Cal said. He thought for a moment and was amused by the fact that his first action as chief of security was to keep a seven year old girl safe.  Then he shrugged, after all, everyone on the ship is his responsibility. “Lead the way.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Leslie led him to the rec room, entering first she was immediately greeted by Joey Schmidt.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“What are you doing here ? I told you you're not welcome, this is our rec room.” Joey said and motioned to his two buddies. Joey was 11 and his friends were of the same age.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“This isn't your rec room Joey and I'm not leaving.” She said to him in a very defiant tone. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Joey went to respond and was instantly at a loss for words as a huge person he had never seen walked into the room behind her. “ Uh…” is all that Joey could get out.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Cal took two thundering steps into the rec room and loomed over the boy who was clearly older than Leslie. He turned his head to look at the girl. “Joey?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Yeah he's a good guy.” Leslie said to Joey about Lieutenant Cal Dogan, doing so as she crossed her little arms and stood there with confidence. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Cal turned his attention to the boy. He was not a fan of bullies. “I understand you have been less than kind to the younglings in the room.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">They boys eyes widened and appeared to be about to cry, but managed to hold himself together. Cal continued. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Understand this,” he said with a gravelly voice,”I am Ms. Leslie’s personal security detail.  If something… unforeseen… happens to her then I will take a great interest in it.  Perhaps even take it as a personal insult against me. I will be forced to find retribution. Am I being clear to you.”  </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">The boy managed to peep out a, “Yes, sir.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Know that if anything, and I mean anything, happens to her, your fault, anybody’s fault, I will hold you responsible. That means </span><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:italic;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">you</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap"> have just become her bodyguard.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">He looked over at Leslie. ie</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“ And that means you have to do what I say, Joey. First order.” Leslie said and held up her finger. “ You will be nice to every kid in here or else I will get my new friend to pay you a visit.” She said and smiled. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Ye..yes ma'am.” Joey responded.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“That is all.” Leslie said and turned to Cal. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“We can go now, I'm sure they'll be on their best behavior.” She said to him with a grin. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan nodded, “Indeed. I have other pressing matters to attend to.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">He turned and purposefully strode out of the the room, his feet clomping on the deck playing, Leslie following behind him. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Once they left Leslie looked up at Cal.  “What is your name ?” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I am Lt. Dogan, the new Chief of Security,” Cal said functionally.  Then as they walked away from the Rec Room he added, “However my friends call me Cal.  I would be honored to consider you a friend.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“ OK Cal, you can call me Leslie, everyone calls me that because it's my name.” She said to him. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Now,” he said, “I’ll accompany you to your destination to ensure your safety.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“It's this way…” She said as she led him down the corridor and to the personal Quarters of Master Chief Sytuk, the Chief of the boat.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Upon reaching the doors she pressed the button next to the door.  “He's big like you.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Like me?” Cal said, his voice filled with disbelief. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">The door opened and Cal was face to face with a Reman. Sytuk looked at the new Security officer then noticed Leslie way down beneath them. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I brought a new blanket for Bugsy and this is my new friend Cal. He's the Security chief and he escorted me here.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Sytuk looked back up to Cal, looking him in the eyes. “Chief Sytuk, Sir.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan nodded, looking down at his PADD, “Chief Sytuk. You are Chief of the Boat.”  It was an odd title since, technically, they were not on a “boat”. But he also knew what the designation meant that he was responsible for all of the noncommissioned officers on the Hades. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Sytuk stepped back and motioned for both of them to enter. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan stepped inside ushering Leslie just ahead of him.  “Attend to… Bugsy,” said to the girl. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Bugsy is a stuffed animal.” Leslie said as she ran past Sytuk and towards the living space of the quarters.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">He looked at Sytuk quizzically, “Why would a stuffed animal require a blanket?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“ I asked the same question.” Sytuk answered. “ Children often give a sense of life to their toys. Pretending they are real. I think it has to do with their innocence and compassion before life takes that away from them a little at a time.” Sytuk mentioned. “How did you come across her?” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I found Miss Decker wandering the corridor,” Cal said. “I helped her with a situation and felt it necessary to escort her here. It seems that course was fortuitous.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Sytuk nodded at the new security chief.</span></p><br><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“See this is Bugsy.” Leslie said as she held up the stuffed animal Penguin. “He was mine but I'm letting Sytuk have him for a while to keep him company.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan smiled,”A penguin named Bugsy. Interesting. That is very kind of you to Bugsy to help the chief.”  He looked at Sytuk, “Do yourequire such a service?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I'll explain it all later.” Sytuk remarked. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I look forward to it,” Cal replied. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“I was on my way to work. Need to check in with a few of my staff.” Sytuk mentioned. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Another moment of serendipity,” Cal said. “You were on my short list of people to talk with. Perhaps we can walk together and discuss the crew.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Can I come with you?” Leslie asked. “Mommy never lets me go with her.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Children and warp cores don't mix. Besides, you don't have the proper clearances. It's best that you return to your quarters and finish your project for school or else your mother won't permit you to go to the holodeck later and that would most certainly be displeasing for you.” Sytuk said. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Ok…” Leslie said.“ But the security chief can give anyone clearance right?” She asked. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan looked at the girl steadily. She had a keen mind to be certain. “Unfortunately that is not correct. Only the commanding officer can permit security clearances. My job is to enforce his directives. Perhaps I can speak to Captain Merek on your behalf.  But I can make no promises”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“ Ok..” She said with a deflated sounding tone. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Let's go Leslie, return home and do as your mother asked. I'm sure Chief Dogan has a busy day ahead of him.” Sytuk said as he opened the door. “I'll escort her back, I'm sure you have much of the ship you haven't seen.” Sytuk said to Cal.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Indeed,” Cal agreed. “I will arrange a time when we can talk about the crew.  Perhaps tomorrow.”  He looked at Leslie, As for you… I do not forget my friends. I will find time for you.”  He remembered Leeza Pel on the Illuminar and her affinity for chocolate cake. “Perhaps, if you do a good job on your project, I will take you for a treat at the…” he looked at his PADD again, “Bean me Up?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">He looked at Sytuk in disbelief at the corniness of the name of the coffee shop. He never got a taste for coffee, himself, but did learn to enjoy a drink called a smoothie.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Sytuk nodded, understanding the reaction for the name. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Alright, they have blueberry muffins, I love those.” Leslie said as she and them walked out of the quarters. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Sytuk looked down at her. “ Say goodbye to your friend.” </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">“Bye Cal. Thank you for your help with Joey.” The young girl said as she waved. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Dogan bent over and bowed, “The honor was mine.” He watched as the little girl skipped down the corridor.  </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">Then he turned to the COB. “Chief, I look forward to our conversation.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">With that he headed to the turbolift and deck 5.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">(reply none)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.0pt;margin-bottom:0.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#242424;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap;white-space:pre-wrap">(posted by Al and Rob)</span></p><br><br><br><br></div>
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