USS Illuminar

Mission: In the Vanguard
Day: Prequel- Day 1
Stardate: 2446.06.05
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Prequel 2446.06.05
(Mars - Utopia Planitia Space Dock - Construction Bay 5 - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral
Saleke - 0900)
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 – Primary Computer Core Access - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral
Saleke - 1025)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 – Bridge - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 1105)
(Mars - Utopia Planitia – Academy Grounds - Administration Building- 4th Floor - Office of
Scientific R&D - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 1430)

Day -6
(USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0247)
Day-4
(USS Illuminar - Dr. Solace’s personal quarters - 3/O&CMO Dr. Quinna Solace Special Guest
appearances by Dieter Gregory and Aggie Vanderstein - 1024 )
(USS Illuminar - Deck 15 - SFI Office (The Dungeon) - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1025)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - Quinna Solice’s Quarters - 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice and
SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1031)

Day -3
(Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - FO Commander Sienna Verin - 1300)
(Illuminar - Deck 2 - Personal Quarters - CSec/Tac Lt. Cmdr T’Mur - 1305)
(Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - FO Commander Sienna Verin & Lt. Cmdr T’Mur - 1307)

Day 1
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CO Captain Sekal - 1023)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri - 1025)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1026)
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Holodeck 1 - Operations Ensign James ‘Jay’ Shaw - 1100)
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Holodeck 1 - Operations Ensign James ‘Jay’ Shaw - 1115)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 3 - Officers' Quarters - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1120)
(USS Illuminar - Disembark Ramp - SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1301)
(Mars - NCO quarters - SO CPO Hercules Devers and P’Rah - 1400)
(USS Illuminar -- Personal Quarters -- Deck 2 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 1440)
Mars -- Utopia Planitia -- Transport Station - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 1658)
(Mars -- UP - ScientificR&D -- Office - Vice - Admiral Saleke -- 1703)
(Mars - SFI Headquarters - SFI Director’s Office - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1715)
(Mars -- UP - ScientificR&D -- Office - Vice - Admiral Saleke and CO, Captain Sekal -- 1720)
(Mars -- Utopia Planitia -- Brig - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice SO CPO Hercules
Devers and P’Rah – 1830)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston and CMO/3XO Commander Quinna
Solice- 1835)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 2030)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice
- 2031)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston -2032)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - ACMO - Dr. Kyllee Stev -2033)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - So CPO P'Rah and Hercules Devers -
2034)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 2035)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice
- 2037)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - ACMO - Dr. Kyllee Stev -2038)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 2041)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - ACMO - Dr. Kyllee Stev -2042)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -2045)
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice SO CPO P'Rah and
Hercules Devers -2046)
Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - Vice-Admiral Saleke -2047)
(USS Illuminar, ACEO’s quarters – ACEO Ensign Ssvresh – 2355)

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Prequel
Stardate: 2446.06.05

(Mars - Utopia Planitia Space Dock - Construction Bay 5 - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral
Saleke - 0900)

This day was going to be a busy one and the Vulcan was of course prompt. Launch of the
vessel in the construction bay now appeared to be meeting its initial deadline which was less
that two weeks away. As director of Scientific Research and Development who's main branch
was on the red planet Saleke had two offices, one on Earth at HQ and one at the Mars surface
facility close to the Academy. His purpose for being here; a preliminary inspection of the
facilities, computer links and programming. Initial results would be compared with ongoing
diagnostics and updates until launch and even afterward to give a baseline for future
construction of the class.

The USS Raptor was of the Inquiry class, a slate of ships more than a generation outdated but
being updated and upgraded to incorporate current technological innovations and
improvements.

The honor guard that greeted him at the enclosed gangway from the station to the nearly
completed ship saluted and turned sharply to the large doors which slid aside and he followed
with Giovanna trailing in his wake. The former mirror universe Sienna Verin was extremely
nimble of mind and highly versed in some interesting technical fields which were logical
considering that the Terran Empire, in subjugating numerous galactic species had amassed a
wealth of offensive and defensive technologies. Giovanna due to her cooperation and
assistance then was being shown ample courtesy. She was not however at this time trusted and
might never be. The savagery and duplicity of the Terran Empire and those that originated from
it was the stuff of legends among those aware of their existence and great care was taken in
dealing with them. It was only logical and prudent, Saleke however was prepared to extend trust
when earned.

The tube was transparent which allowed a clear view of the underside of the saucer section and
port side view of the secondary hull. In comparison to the ship his son commanded the Raptor
was over 100 meters longer, twenty meters higher and with three times the crew capacity
including a marine deck among its twenty. It was slated to be a ship of the line despite being half
the length of the flagship USS Republic but would take its place among the primary
strike/defensive craft of the Federation. A total of 12 of these ships were currently planned and
that number might be lessened or extended depending on her performance so its maiden
voyage was going to be heavily scrutinized.

(USS Raptor - Deck 10 - Corridor - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 0905)

Saleke and Giovanna made their way inside as the honor guard stepped to either side of the
door. Their presence would not be needed during the inspection however the handful of
technicians that had trailed the party would and they continued ahead as the Admiral and aide
followed. Saleke would not trace their footsteps however, he had his own rounds to make.

"It's a nice enough ship I suppose."

He turned his head to Giovanna as they walked down the corridor. "Explain."

She shrugged. She had changed her form-fitting, leather uniform for one that was dark purple
though black had been her preference.

"Immensely high power curve, state of the art propulsion, weaponry and defensive systems.
Positronic computer system and interlink, holographic interfaces and command/control. All nice,
compact and powerful but she wouldn't stand a chance against the ship the Emperor is
building."

"On what do you base your comparison?" He asked as he turned the corner and made for the
lift.

"Look Admiral, you know how we are." She stopped and he did so as well, looking back at her
quizzically. "The Empire doesn't use Explorer configurations or any of the other Federation
classifications except in rare circumstances. Every ship that we... they build would be
considered by StarFleet to be a dreadnought version. Heavily armed and armored and created
for only one purpose... conquest."

His eyes bored into hers for a moment. "While the ships of the Terran Empire are formidable
they are not invincible."

She crossed her arms under her breasts and gave him a searching look, her stance and bearing
were arrogant as always, her confidence in herself and her abilities unquenchable, something
about his statement though struck her. "And how would you know that?"

He gave her a strange, almost mocking look in return. Vulcan mannerisms and facial
expressions could be so hard to penetrate. "I fought one."

She gave him a surprised look. "Which ship? When?"

"Nearly 35 years ago." His voice was matter of fact. "The USS Furious under my command and
the USS Rosenante destroyed the ISS Rosenante in our prime Universe."

That made her curious. "Which ship gave the killing blow?"
"The Furious." He turned and continued walking toward the lift, reached it in 8 steps then turned
to her as the door opened. "ISS Commanders have a weakness."

"And what is that?" The smile she gave him was mocking.

"Knowing our counterparts in the Mirror Universe is a disadvantage, while they can anticipate
our tactics to an extent they expect us to think like them. And that is where their plans unravel."

She stepped into the lift as he spoke. "Deck 11, Computer Core."

The door slid shut.

(Reply: None)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 5 – Primary Computer Core Access - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral
Saleke - 1025)

A visual inspection of the primary computer core had taken place without incident followed by
the pair ascending to the primary access chamber which contained a large central console
surrounded by access kiosks built into the walls. The technician running diagnostics on the
system looked up after a moment.

“The system is currently running within tolerance admiral but that should increase to optimal
once the final superconducting elements are installed. We expect delivery of those in three
days.”

“And installation time?”

“Thirty six hours at the outside sir working around the clock.”

“Very good.” The Vulcan took a final look around before stepping through the door

“I didn’t see a load access point for Luma.” Giovanna noted after they had exited and they were
alone in the corridor.

His head snapped toward her and his eyes were narrowed. “For who?”

She gave a throaty chuckle. “I’m not stupid or dense, there is now way to hide her presence
aboard the Illuminar from a telepath. I understand why you wish to keep her a secret though.”

He took a step toward her, his eyes intense. “You are speaking of a classified subject. If you
wish to discuss it further you will wait until we have returned to the office complex. Have you
spoken of this to anyone else?”

She gave him a guarded look. “I’m not an idiot either. Broaching classified material to any would
be a breach of the trust I am trying to build. Look, it was obvious she wasn’t to be openly spoken
of, knowledge of her isn’t even widely disseminated aboard the Illuminar. That secret is safe
with me.”
“There are a number of reasons to keep that material classified.” He noted. “And I will list them
for you at the appropriate time, for now I suggest you remember that pledge and maintain it.”

“I will.” She fell into step behind him. “You haven’t answered my question.”

“What has given you reason to expect something of that nature would be necessary?”

“I’ve heard rumblings.” They rounded a turn on the way back to the turbolift. “The projected CO
of the Raptor is currently unavailable along with the core crew to man it for its maiden voyage.
There is talk that the Illuminar will be recalled in the same time frame. Sekal has been working
with the design and technical teams during the construction phase and has a tested, veteran
crew. There is no one more qualified to take it out during its testing phase. And as an appetizer
Illuminar also has an android aboard who could conceivably interface seamlessly with the
primary or secondary computer if the need arose. The last is my own conjecture.”

He stopped outside the door and stepped aside as he gave her his attention. “All very logical. To
your earlier question I will say that such a device does not need to be obvious to exist and that
is all I will say on the subject. As for plans to initially crew the ship, that is also currently
classified and until that is lifted I will not discuss the matter. When construction is complete and
the ship is ready to take its maiden voyage the personnel list will be made available.”

She crossed her arms again and pouted. “There is quite a lot of secrecy surrounding this entire
venture. Is our next destination also classified? I’m assuming it will be main engineering.”

“Negative, the propulsion systems will be tested just prior to launch. The bridge is our next
stop.”

“Very well Admiral.” She stepped past him, taking her place in the lift. “Shall we go?”

He shrugged and stepped into the lift.

(Reply: None)
(Posted by Charles Gatling.)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 1 – Bridge - Starfleet Command - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 1105)

 The two stepped out as the door opened, Saleke first and followed by Giovanna. Being a
veteran commander his eyes swept around, weighing the layout. The center seat was on the
lower deck as always and had a commanding view of all the primary stations in a setup that was
reminiscent of a Galaxy or Sovereign class. The bridge, in a word was expansive though it didn't
approach the immensity of an Odyssey class.

 The curving rail that separated the upper and lower bridge deck swept around the curve at the
rear and the walkway was ramped rather than staired. The seats at each station were slightly
larger and wider than standard with more cushion which helped avoid spills during combat or
other buffeting incidents.

The forward viewing area was also quite large due to its kit, the viewscreen would be used for
exterior monitoring but the area before it was part of the holographic communication array and
communications could be projected there without losing visual spatial reference.
To the right of the bow of the bridge was a four pad transporter array in an alcove and to the left
as you entered from the lift the door to the Commanding Officer's Ready Room. The whole
space was efficient as well as spacious. Some might call it opulent, those would not be Vulcans.
The placement of the Ready Room was familiar to Saleke who had commanded not one but two
Prometheus class vessels in his time as CO.

His head turned to the right as he focused on the Binars and their attendants who were
clustered around the communication console, the Binars were speaking in their fast-paced
manner that was a stream of bits of vocal pulses. A skilled linguist given time could understand
their vocalizations but still struggled at the speed, the Admiral was not a skilled linguist. He
walked toward them and they turned to him as he neared while the attendants continued their
duties.

"Greetings Admiral..."

"... we were expecting you..."

"... to be earlier. The programming..."

"... is coming along nicely. We are..."

"... setting the parameters for the ...."

".... security access now."

Those who had not dealt with the species often found themselves standing too close and their
heads moving from one to the other as they spoke, Saleke had stopped at a point where he
merely had to move his eyes. Some had pointed out that it simplified matters if you looked at
one and considered both vocalizations as coming from one being but Binars had been known to
take such as a personal affront in the past.

"Noted. Your timing is impeccable as always."

Both Binars bowed their heads at the compliment.

"The partition you requested...."

"... has also been installed and tested..."

"... as much as we are able. Final ..."

"... adjustments will require installation..."

"... of the entity. The memory capacity..."

"... can be easily converted..."

"... at a later time."

Giovanna, who was standing behind him with her arms crossed and most of her weight shifted
to her right leg gave a knowing smile. She had expected as much.
Many advancements had been made in computer processing speed over the last few centuries
beginning with Doctor Daystroms M5 unit. While the unit itself had been a failure due to the use
of unstable engrams which mimicked the processing power present in a human brain it had not
slowed the development along that technological tree, the last being bio-neural gel packs that
had been pioneered in the Intrepid class which was the root of the Illuminar; it had its
drawbacks, the main one being that the bio neural fluid could become infected and neutralized.

Positronic "brains" for a ship which served as a centralized nervous system and computer core
had been adapted from advancements pioneered by Doctor Soong for use in the androids he
had created. One of these androids had met the legal criteria for being a life form. While some
computer holograms had at times in the past flirted with the concept of sentience none had ever
achieved it and up to this point no ship equipped with a positronic matrix had become sentient
due to the engineered safeguards built into the system.

But would those safeguards last? So far they had but as time and experience had shown,
nothing was foolproof when dealing with space and the myriad hazards and unknowns that it
contained. No matter what scientists and science could posit there were always unknowns.

"And the timeline for finalizing the programming then?"

"Is as projected. All will be ready..."

"...except for the final adjustments..."

"... as noted."

His eyes swept about the bridge once again, taking in the brick red, short fiber flooring, the
mahogany colored railing and gleaming, silver grey walls before he looked back at them and
nodded his acceptance of the report. The control panels were varying shades of silver and blue
edged in ebony and scarlet.

"Thank you, I will be taking my leave. You may continue your reports to my office as well as
Engineering Construction control and StarFleet Headquarters."

"We are very excited...."

"... to be working on this project..."

"... on behalf of StarFleet..."

"... thank you Admiral."

He turned and retraced his steps back to the lift, passing Giovanna who had a mocking smile on
her face.

(Reply: None yet)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(Mars - Utopia Planitia – Academy Grounds - Administration Building- 4th Floor - Office of
Scientific R&D - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 1430)
Saleke had made his report on the inspection to Admiral Nagato and signed off after which he
closed the monitor which descended into the desktop. Standing up he walked to a window
behind his desk which overlooked the Academy grounds. The wide, paved oval in which was
inset the seal of the Federation at the center was in plain view.

A group of cadets were moving at a brisk pace across the yard in front between the medical
and security buildings to the left, science and engineering were set back and to the right. The
Arboretum which Sienna Verin had planted almost three years ago had grown lushly under the
spacious dome and a number of coniferous trees as well as their smaller cousins stood tall on
that side of the compound.

He noted a streak to his left and saw a fighter wing from the launch pads behind the security
building take off and climb into the reddish sky. Mars would never be a blue jewel as Earth was
due to its lack of mass and the thin atmosphere it could support, water however was becoming
more abundant due to the icy meteors and comets that had been and were still being sent to
crash into its north polar region.

The dormitory building, crystal and steel sprawled on the far side of the grounds. It contained its
own atmosphere though connected to the Academy environs.

At the tone from the door he stepped to the desk and pressed a button causing it to open and
Giovanna sauntered in.

"Admiral."

"Yes Ms. Verin?"

She crossed her arms and gave him what was almost a glare. "We had a subject to speak of."

"I remember it clearly."

"Good." She tapped a foot. "Look, I'm not without some understanding of Luma'lenai, your
mirror universe, my prime has her as well."

"Indeed? Am I to assume then that she is enslaved?" He took a step back to the window as he
turned.

"Yes." She stated flatly. "She serves on the ISS Illuminar as Sekal's pet."

He crossed his arms as he looked across the grounds. "Unfortunate."

"For you perhaps, but not for him, she makes for a very good spy and enforcer."

"You are no doubt unaware that StarFleet Intelligence once tried to turn Luma into a weapon
which is against her nature. She refused and was eventually abandoned."

"That's because they didn't use the right incentive."

His turn was sudden. "Unlike the Terran Empire the Federation does not make use of the same
tactics for which I am grateful."
She looked into his hard eyes. "You have a history with her."

"I am her oversight and work to ensure she is not mistreated."

"No, not that..." she paused. "... from before."

"You speak correctly." He dead panned. "Do not make the mistake of thinking that I will not use
what is necessary to keep her from harm. I will prosecute any being who endangers her
welfare."

"That was a pointed warning." She noted.

"Yes."

"Then I consider myself warned." She shrugged. "Not that I would try, I'm beginning to like this
place, more freedom to be who I am and no forced bondings." She shuddered. "I'd never
endanger that."

"I am gratified to hear it."

"What are the chances of me being on the Raptor during her test run as an advisor?"

"None. Your presence will not be necessary. The ship will have a capable crew."

"From the Illuminar."

"That is classified."

"Yes but it answers my question. I'm more curious as to the secrecy."

"I cannot answer that question."

She pouted. "Too bad. Oh well, it's time to get back to work, thank you for your time."

With that Giovanna swayed out the door as he returned his attention to the window. Content as
she may be to remain in the Prime Universe she couldn’t be trusted, not yet.

(Reply: None yet)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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Day -8
Stardate: 2446.06.12

(USS Illuminar - Deck 5 - Outside Counseling Office - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 2028)

Tegian stood outside the doors of the Counselor's office having arrived early. He didn't wish to
be late, as was his usual protocol. On time was always late. Early was on time. He waved his
hand over the chime and waited patiently.
(USS Illuminar - Deck 5 - Counseling Office - Counselor Temas Laredo and Lieutenant Jg
Tegian Pex - 2029)

Temas had been a little frustrated with the senior staff who all decided to skip their evaluation
appointments. Didn’t they realize that he could have them suspended from duty? He really
didn’t understand it, and wondered what their previous experiences with counselors were.

Then his door chime went off. He tapped the button and smiled as Lt. Pex stepped in.

“Ah Tegian,” his spirit lifted, “come in, please. Have a seat. How are you today?”

Tegian nodded. “Hello, Counselor Laredo.” He sat in one of the more comfortable looking
chairs. “I’m doing as well as can be expected, I think. Ensign Yevan zh’Firre was the first
person I’ve ever lost under my command. And having Dr. Vanderstein go into convulsions in my
arms was very traumatic. It’s been a difficult week for me. I think this is the first time that I’m
emotionally grateful for Pex. Loss of life is part of the cycle. It’s sad for those that are left
behind And if we focus on the lost possibilities, it can be even sadder. Pex and I have become
much closer during this experience.”

Temas smiled, “Well that’s excellent. Are you and Pex often at odds with each other?”

Tegian considered the question, carefully. “Not very often. Joined Trill are supposed to be of
one mind. As you know, we haven’t managed that. Something that we haven’t made widely
known. When Pex disagrees with me or wants to offer advice, we discuss it in what I assume is
something akin to telepathy. And I can feel Pex within me, so that if something is truly upsetting,
Pex will move. That can make me uncomfortable, even nauseous. Hard to ignore someone
when they can do that to you. Early on, when we weren’t getting along very well, that was more
common. I can’t remember the last time that happened other than from some external
stimulus.”

“But, I think you misunderstood what I meant, earlier. We’ve become closer because Pex has
lived multiple lifetimes in other hosts and has experienced the loss of loved ones or close
friends. And, those under their command. It’s new to me, but not to Pex. I didn’t have the
experience to cope with that sudden loss. And, there was the expectation to go on when Ensign
zh’Firre died and get the Illuminar working again. To grieve later. I’m not sure I could have
done that without Pex.”
Temas nodded, “No, I believe I understood you perfectly. I am curious though. As you stated,
and from my experience, once the symbiont and the host are joined you are as one. and I do
realize that is an oversimplification. However, that does not appear to be the case with you. Why
is that?”

Tegian shrugged. “We’ve discussed it a bunch of times, going around and around. Pex
believes it’s because I’m the first male host they’ve had. I think it’s because I wasn’t ready to
submit to being Joined. My mother put me into the program, I didn’t volunteer, which is how it’s
supposed to happen. I wasn’t being fully honest with myself going into the program, so when I
was Joined, I resisted. Pex doesn’t agree. They say they’ve had difficult Joinings before that
didn’t lead to this. We’re Joined enough that Pex’s life isn’t in danger, but not enough that we’re
of one mind.”

Temas looked surprised, “Indeed. Is there a period of time before it becomes clear that you are
not a compatible host, or it becomes a danger to either the symbiont of the host?”

Tegian nods. “Yes, but to remove the symbiont means the death of the host. And Pex didn’t
want that. I didn’t want it, either. So, we faked a successful Joining.”

Temas was stunned, “I didn’t even know that was possible. I will say that I am concerned about
the physical ramifications of this, not to mention the emotional and psychological issues that
could arise. Is Doctor Solice aware of this?”

Tegian raised an eyebrow, mimicking some of the Vulcans he’s seen. “For me personally or for
all Joined Trills, Counselor?”

“I guess both,” Temas replied. “But about you more specifically.”

“Well, I believe it’s yes to both because I was concerned about the young girl Leeza being
Joined at such an early age. And the Doctor and I spoke about my own condition shortly after I
came aboard,” replied Tegian trying to remember the details. “I don’t want this widely known. If
this reaches my homeworld, they could make it difficult for my family and demand to recall me
and remove Pex.”

Temas nodded, “I understand. I do fear that they will find out anyway and the possible
repercussions. But nobody will hear it from me. May I speak with Doctor Solice regarding this.
Hopefully I can help you out. Create a bridge between you and Pex for a more complete union.”
Tegian nodded. “If you wish. As far as them finding out, Pex and I don’t believe so. We’re
moving closer and closer to being truly Joined. But, I’d welcome help in the journey if you have
the time.”

Temas smiled, “For you Tegian, I will make the time.”

Tegian nodded once more and got up to leave. As he approached the door, he said. “Thank
you, Counselor. That would be appreciated, by both of us. But, once that happens, the Tegian
you know will change.”

And he walked out.

(Reply None)
(Posted by Al and Keith)
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Day -6
Stardate: 2446.06.14

(USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0247)

Quinna had been in the biobed for a couple of days and was tired of it. The procedure was not
overly complicated. The infection was easy to clear. Her broken heart was another story. She
kept her right hand closed most of the time.

The sickbay was in night mode. One nurse was on duty and a Medical Hologram was available
for emergencies. The thing was, Quinna was the only patient. She slowly sat up in bed. The
best part of her job is she know certain codes that would allow anyone with bio readings could
see that she was still right there. It took a visual inspection to notice she was gone. She pulled
some pillows from the storage cabinet under the biobed and shoved them under a blanket that
looked like she was still there. Then it was the door closest to her escape leading to the
Corridor. She exited the room and squinted her eyes at the bright light.

(USS Illuminar -- Personal Quarters -- Deck 2 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0255)
Quinna made her way to her quarters. She noted that things were the way she left them. She
looked to the side table to find a gift from her favorite scientist on board. She had been holding
onto the bottle for the moment she could drink again. One would have thought her first return to
the beverages would have been coffee, but without getting a glass, Quinna her mouth of Penn
and Teller’s brew. Her mouth was quenched, and the burn of the alcohol went down her throat.
She recapped her bottle and went to bed. It felt good to be in her bed and be able to stretch
out. But most of all, she was able to hide out away from the view of everyone else.

(Reply none)
(Posted by Kris B)
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Day: -4
Stardate:2446.06.16
(USS Illuminar - Dr. Solace’s personal quarters - 3/O&CMO Dr. Quinna Solace Special Guest
appearances by Dieter Gregory and Aggie Vanderstein - 1024 )

Quinna remained isolated from the rest of the crew. She could not find the will to leave her
quarters. She was hurting all over but it was not the kind of pain that any of her medical
equipment could take away.

Laying in bed, she knew that she needed to make a decision, but she could put it off another
day. Closing her eyes she tried to go back to sleep, but the beeping started. She had a
message.

“Computer, Mute message” Quinna ordered the computer. When the beeping seemed to stop,
she rolled over and closed her eyes again. It was then the message started to beep again. It
beeped and beeped and beeped even more. It was creating an issue for Quinna. The beeping
would not stop.

“OH ALRIGHT!” Quinna screamed to no one but the insistent beeping. Quinna got out of bed
and made her way to her computer terminal. Normally she would have something next to her
bed, but since she was lost, she did not want to be found. Sitting in the chair, she stood back up
quickly. Even though her boots were comfortable, they were not that comfortable to sit on.
Taking a deep breath, she opened the annoyingly beeping message.

The message opened and staring at Quinna was Dieter Gregory. He looked older, his hair
starting to turn salt and pepper. He’d grown a beard as well. Next to him was Agnes
Vanderstein, looking radiant and alive.

They appear to be sitting on a porch or veranda, on rustic furniture.

“Hi Quinna, Michael. If I did this right, you should be receiving this shortly after you return from
Bajor. Aggie and I wanted to let you know everything is as it should be, and that we hope you
don’t worry.”

“It's been a few years, our time since we parted, and a lot has happened. We have a nice little
homestead here. It’s not so little, actually. It seems every year we’re adding to it. But is a nice
change of pace from Star Fleet.”

“Iris grows like a weed. She’s a very independent 10-year-old, very inquisitive about everything.
A handful in a good way.” The view changes and Quinna sees a wide open space with two girls
walking toward the camera, carrying what looks like a string of fish. “She is quite the little
fisherwoman too, looks like she got us dinner.”

Aggie let out a small laugh, “She is our child of nature. She has a natural gift with the planet.”
Aggie found it hard to find the words.

“Leeza is turning into quite the young woman as well. She and Iris are inseparable. She did
take it hard at first when we moved here, and she still misses Mikey and P’Rah, but seems to
know more of why we are here than we do. I guess having Pel with her doesn’t hurt. I try to
play the games Weston played with her, but he was so much better codebreaker than I am.”
“At night, we have freeform education for them. They are bright as tacks and keep us on our
toes. Fortunately, our benefactor makes sure we have material, old-fashioned books and the
like, to keep them up to date on everything.”

“Iris cannot seem to get enough books, When she not outside running around, she is reading a
book.” Aggie turned to look at the girls, “Oh I better go and get some fish cleaned for dinner.”
Aggie turned and headed to the girls. Quinna noticed that Aggie was visibly pregnant.

“It is never a dull moment,” Dieter said as the camera turned again to face a small fenced-in
area where three little bodies were busy digging and building and exploring. “Meet Mikey and
the twins, Solace and Spencer. And we have one more on the way,” he said with a smile.

The two older girls come running out of the house, “Mom wants us to get herbs,” Iris said. “We
saw some watercress by the river too!” The young girl's deep purple eyes filled the screen.
They reflected wisdom and wonder at the universe. And peace.

The image panned to the field as the two girls ran out into the field before the camera panned
back to Dieter. “We don’t know what or why we’re here, but we’re making it work for our
growing family. Iris is loved. Whatever comes her way, she’ll be ready, I promise you. Hold her
in your heart and one day I believe you’ll get to see what a fine woman she grows into.” There
was a tear in his eye as he took a breath. “I see that my time is short, so let me leave you with
this. ‘May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home. May good and
faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with
joy that long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours.”

As he finished, his image faded away to leave just a porch and two chairs before going black.

Quinna stared at the black screen. Her face was soaked in tears as her hands shook
unknowingly. Aggie said that the girl would be strong and healthy and she was. It made Quinna
happy that she was healthy and happy but was also jealous at the same time as her heart
ached for the child whose life she could not be a part of.

Quinna reached over and hit a button on the Comm panel of her set-up. “Solice to Weston”
She waited for Michael to reply. “I am ready to talk when you are available.”

(Reply None)
(Posted by Kris and Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar - Deck 15 - SFI Office (The Dungeon) - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1025)

Michael had been staring at the same screen for over an hour. His mind, however, was not
stuck. He continued to play through the events of the I’ll fated trip to DS 9 and through the
wormhole. So much of his life had changed.

He’d lost his friend. Some might have said Dieter was his best friend. Truth be told, other than
Quinna, he was his only friend. He had lost his joy in life, Leeza. She could always make him
laugh, even if he thought there was no way he could. He had lost the one thing that he had
taken responsibility for. A child that was not his child, but he had been determined to be the best
father to her that he could. Better than his own had been to him, which was not much of a
statement.
The one thing that was still there for him was Quinna. But he knew that she needed time. She
had made an effort to seperate herself from the rest of the ship. They could go on without her
for right now.

He knew that she would talk when she was ready. So he made an effort to give her the space
she needed. He would check in on her a couple of times a day, but the result was the same.
She just needed time. He would give her the time she needed.

So he did the one thing that he could do and go back to work. Temas Loredo came by to see
him one day but that ended fairly disastrously. He just couldn’t bring himself to talk to the
Betazoid. He knew he was just wanting to help, but Temas was not who he needed to talk to. He
needed to talk to Quinna.

He blinked, suddenly realizing that he had been frozen on the page and tapped the key to turn
the monitor off. He started to pace his office thinking that perhaps some exercise would help.
Then his comm badge chirped.

=^=Solice to Weston. I’m ready to talk when you are available.=^=

Michael cocked his head at the call. His brain caught up to what she said and he tapped his
badge. “I’ll be there in five.”

He closed the channel and looked at himself in the small mirror on a cupboard. He looked like
he hadn’t slept in three days. What coincidence, since he hadn’t. With another deep breath he
left his office.

(USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - Quinna Solice’s Quarters - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1030)

Michael stood back from the door for a moment and breathed. Why did he feel this way? He’d
become vulnerable. It was a position he was not used to. He wondered how he had allowed this
to happen to himself. Then he stepped up to the door and hit the door chime.

(reply Quinna)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - Quinna Solice’s Quarters - 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice and
SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1031)

The door chime rang and Quinna looked up. Surely if it were Michael he would come in so it
made Quinna a little curious as to what was going on. “Open,” Quinna said knowing that it
could be almost anyone. Chances are that it was not since no one even tried to visit her. But
there was Michael and he was there.

The door opened and Michael was there. “Hi, Love,” Quinna said.

“Hi sweetie,” Michael said as a smile appeared on his face. He walked across the room and
knelt in front of her sitting on her sofa. He took her hands in his and said, “I’ve missed you.”

“I am sorry, we all have to process our losses in different ways, but I was not sure how to
formulate the words that would express how I feel.”
Michael nodded, “I get it. I’ve tried to give you time and space. But I need to grieve too. And I
need you in order to do it. Sometimes words aren’t necessary. Sometimes all we need is to be
with someone who loves us.” He chuckled, “And on this ship, for me, that list is small.” He
could feel the emotions behind his eyes and in the back of his throat, “And it just became a lot
smaller.”

“There is a message for the two of us but I had no clue until I started playing it. And then I could
not stop it. I am sorry. It is open on my terminal.”

Michael looked into Quinna’s red-rimmed eyes and nodded. Before he stood up he leaned
forward and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. He wanted to grab her and hold her, but he might
not get up and look at the terminal. With maximum effort he pushed himself back up to his feet.
Quinna stood up with him.

“While you watch it, I am going to do you a favor and take a quick shower. I might even put on
clean clothes while I am at it.” Quinna would watch it but she was unsure she if could see it
again, right now.

“Well, now I do feel special,” Michael smiled.

Quinna left him alone and he moved over to the computer terminal. Slowly he reached out and
tapped the play key. The image of the aging Dieter came on. He kind of looked like he did
when they were on the Rhyne. He carried himself with that same confidence that Weston hadn’t
seen in the past few weeks before… . Then he started talking. His ears heard all of the words
but his mind only clicked onto certain words.

[Iris grows like a weed. She’s a very independent 10-year-old, very inquisitive about everything.
A handful in a good way.]

~Iris?~ He reached out and touched the screen. His other hand paused the image as it locked
onto the girl who would have been his daughter. He traced the curves of her face. So much like
Quinna. The long locks of blonde hair had the same wave. Finally he hit the play button and
the image changed.

The image of Aggie came on. Michael had not really gotten a chance to know Aggie. The four
of them had had dinner a couple of times, but there had been no real exchange of love, but he
did like her.

When the monologue turned to Leeza he caught his breath a little. He hadn’t really realized
how emotionally invested he had become on the little three year old… now, apparently thirteen.
A teenager? He could only imagine, and smiled at the idea of a rebellious teen escaping form
her house undetected to do… whatever mischief she could do. The girl had a gift for computer
coding. It went beyond the Pel symbiote.

The image panned across Leeza and Michael paused it again. He couldn’t stop the tear from
escaping. He had his moment of total selfishness, and anger at being robbed of those formative
years together. ~Who was she now compared to who could she have been with his continued
influence?~ Perhaps this was better after all.

When he restarted the video he watched as the two girls walked away with Aggie. He could feel
his heart break again, as if that were even possible. Then the image shifted back to Dieter.
[Iris is loved. Whatever comes her way, she’ll be ready, I promise you. Hold her in your heart
and one day I believe you’ll get to see what a fine woman she grows into.]

An unnecessay request. He couldn’t imagine a time where he’d forget the daughter he would
never have. But what did Dieter mean by that? They’d see her again?

[May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home. May good and faithful
friends be yours, wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that
long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours.]

Leave it Dieter to leave them with some kind of blessing that sounded like a motivational
speaker. Definitely something he would do.

When the recording ended Michael couldn’t help but be curious. He started to dig into the
coding and noted two things. One, which was impossible. The coding was dated 2456. Ten
years from now. How was that possible? The second thing was that he recognized the coding
pattern. It was his.

“You little bastard,” he muttered to himself.

He must have had Leeza create the coding. But there was a piece of coding that he had never
shown her at the end. A termination code. But he did not recognize the last piece.

Michael went back to the video and found the time stamp where the thirteen-year-old Leeza was
standing with the ten-year-old Iris. They were both smiling with joy on their faces. He reached
out again and touched them both. Suddenly he caught the scent of the freshly showered Quinna
behind him.

“It’s not fair.” Quinna said, “I am conflicted.”

Michael turned and looked at Quinna. Her face suddenly filled with sadness. “Conflicted?”

“I am happy that she is happy, but I am jealous. I am hurt, it is hard. She has no idea who we
are, and what she meant to us.” Quinna took a deep breath. “She called Aggie ‘Mom’. I am
never going to hear that. And it is like a dagger went through my heart. I realized that I never
got to be ‘mom’.”

Michael pulled her into his arms and held onto her. He knew how she felt, to a degree. He, also,
would never be called Dad. It wasn’t exactly the same as Quinna, but he was there,
emotionally.

“I know,” he said. “I feel the same. I guess I should have realized that a child of the prophets
was destined to a different fate, but not so soon. I’d being a dad. It was strange. Now it feels
strange knowing I won’t be able to.”

Quinna looked at Michael, “So we agree then, no kids.” Quinna stated.

Michael looked thoughtful for a moment, “Well I hesitate to say never. However, you are more
than enough for me right now.”
“You are more than I could possibly hope for.” Quinna leaned over to kiss Michael. “But you
have to know, I feel empty inside. It is odd to be alone meaning without her. I did not carry her
for long but…”

“But you carried her for her entire life,” Michael finished the sentence. “I know, and she wasn’t
even mine. I always knew that. But you’re not alone. I’m here.”

Quinna kissed him again, “Yes you are. I am here for you.” she then held him.

Michael returned the kiss and they both sat down, holding hands. Michael started to chuckle.
“Damn that Dieter. I’m going to miss him too. I guess I’m going to have to make another friend.”

Quinna almost let out a laugh but stopped herself. “Look maybe we need to get away. I am
angry.”

Michael nodded, “That sounds like a great idea. Maybe a good time to meet your family, while
we’re in the neighborhood?”

“I am thinking more like a Resort Spa. Being pampered, massages, they have counselors to
talk with that are not telepathic.” Quinna said. “All about you and me.” she suggested.
Michael shrugged and smiled. He really didn’t care where they went. They just needed time
together. And a little pampering sounds pretty good about now. “Sounds like a plan. I’ll let you
make all the arrangements since… well… spas are not my forte.”

(reply none)
(posted by Kris B and Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Day: -3
Stardate:2446.06.17

(Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - FO Commander Sienna Verin - 1300)

<Betazed - a tropical cove, mid-day>

Sienna stepped into the holodeck and nodded as she took in the details. The beautiful, tropical
weather, the heavy scent of large and colorful tropical flowers. The small hut, the primitive
details. Sy frowned. She wasn’t into camping.

=^= Our Sienna should enter! The camping is not bad when you see the inside! Luma knows
Our Sienna well! =^= Luma materialized beside Sy in her anime-kitten form, purple tail and ears
twitching as she seemed to dance beside Sienna. Sy knew better than to question Luma, and
took herself inside the what seemed on the outside to be a primitive hut. Inside was a luxurious
fur, silk, pillowed harem nest. To one side were curtains that led into a kitchen area, already
stocked with food that Luma had purloined from the Illuminar’s chef and deposited in the
holodeck via her transporters. Most of it was finger food, vegan options, but Luma had promised
surprises, one that the chef was working on for the two women.

=^= Our Sienna should call Sienna’s T’Mur and order her to the holodeck. Our T’Mur is working
far too hard and is sad. Our Sienna and her T’Mur needed time away from the Illuminar to be …
=^= Luma wriggled her hands as if trying to explain, =^= Together. It was bad of the people on
Risa to cancel your planned visit, but Betazed is better. Luma’s chosen did well in picking a
beautiful planet to settle in on and the Illuminari certainly prospered. Even if it is a fake Betazed
made by Luma’s sorcery. =^= Luma had offered to let Sienna and T’Mur vacation on the Lenai’s
frigid ice-hell of a planet, but Sienna had politely, gently refused.

“You did well Luma. This is absolutely beautiful. I’m sure that T’Mur will love it too. Did you
stock the place sufficiently with food? And you’ve made sure that no one can come and go from
the holodeck for at least the next day?”

Luma danced in front of Sienna, dancing to the cosmic music that she heard and often
participated in. =^= Yes. No one may come in without our Sienna’s approval and only a yellow
alert will interfere with that order. If something needs changing, call on Luma. This space will be
this area of Betazed for you. Luma will use the teleporters to bring the surprises to our Sienna
and her T’Mur. =^= Sy had the errant thought that Luma was getting better with pronouns. It
amused her that Luma’s language skills were evolving.

“Excellent. I’ve cleared it with Sekal that I and T’Mur have the next 72 hours off together, here.
Thank you Luma you are the best.” Sy hugged Luma and Luma squealed in utter delight. Luma
dissolved in a fog of glitter before Sienna could loosen the hug, forcing Sy to take a step forward
to catch herself in balance. Smiling, Sy schooled her expression. “Commander Verin to
Commander T’Mur. Commander you are to report to the holodeck for a mandatory drill. Now
Commander, it’s of the greatest urgency, holodeck 1.” Sy didn’t give T’Mur a chance to reply.

Giggling in delight, Sy waited for her mate, hoping that this would break through whatever was
going on with their bond. Since waking up, it was like their bond had not been as whole as it
should be. Sy wanted to fix that and Sekal had found the time. It helped that Sekal understood
vulcan bonds better than she did, and viewed her as a sister. Sy hoped again that this worked.
She wanted this night to end, locked in a mind-meld with her mate, repairing and reaffirming
their bond. She needed her mate back.

(Illuminar - Deck 2 - Personal Quarters - CSec/Tac Lt. Cmdr T’Mur - 1305)

Having time to herself had become a luxury that T’Mur had not enjoyed for a while. Typically
because it gave her time to contemplate her current situation with Sienna. They simply had not
had the time to reconnect since her return to the Illuminar.

T’Mur had attempted to find a way to get past Sienna’s own mental blocks unsuccessfully. And it
was not something that she cared to force upon her. Her mate would come around when she
was ready, and T’Mur was going to have to be patient. Which wasn’t always easy.

Today Sienna had left on some mysterious errand, and T’Mur had not been invited to join her.
So she had spent her morning exercising and now sat on the floor meditating. Trying to find her
center. Her recent experience with the “plague”, as others had begun to call it, had left her own
nerves a bit tender. She found a period of silent meditation to help her mind settle and build up a
barrier around those sensations. Her hearing still seemed to be somewhat augmented, but
everything else was returning to typical.

When Sienna’s message came through the urgency was clear. T’Mur’s heart began to pound,
wondering if her mate was in trouble. She scrambled to the table and picked up her comm
badge., but it was too late. The channel had been closed.
She didn’t bother to dress beyond slapping the comm badge onto the top of her workout leotard.
She moved quickly, fighting the images of distress that might be happening. Why had she not
reached out through their bond? T’Mur tried to reach through her end but was, as usual,
blocked. By the time she arrived at the holodeck she was running.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - FO Commander Sienna Verin & Lt. Cmdr T’Mur - 1307)

As she entered the holodeck the sounds hit her ears first. But they were pleasant sounds of
fauna. Chirps of birds and clicks of insects communicating. They seemed to have a pattern to
them. Of course, they were computer generated. Then she heard the sound of running water.
She had a sudden urge to follow the sound. She walked until she saw a … hut?

Curious. She knew that Sienna had no love for “the simple life.” Sienna enjoyed the
comfortable life. Perhaps there was more to this hut than met the eye. T’Mur went to the
entrance and peeked her head inside. It was definitely more luxurious on the inside than it
appeared on the outside. This was a setting her mate would be more at home in. She looked
around, but there was still no sign of Sienna, however, she could sense her presence. Finally
she found a thread of their connection and moved her mind along it.

::Sienna?::

Sienna was standing atop the small, one mast boat, on the water of the lagoon. She had
stripped to a rather minimal swimming suit. The one piece was made up of mostly strings and
soft, colorful cloth and her long dark brown hair was pulled back into a tail. She smiled and
waved as T’Mur came into view.

::Our Risan vacation was mysteriously canceled. Luma believes it was by the Admirality and
that something big is coming. So…Sekal gave us this for the next 3 days. Luma is bringing in
food as we need it, neither of us can leave the holodeck unless an emergency.:: She was so
glad when T’Mur was close enough. Sy hopped off her small boat and walked forward towards
her mate, giving her an appraising look.

“How do you like this drill?” Sy’s smile widened. “I’m sorry that things have been so strange. I’m
sorry that there has been no time. So Sekal and I made the time. And of course, Luma helped.”
She shifted from foot to foot. Up close the toning of Sekal and T’Mur’s training showed in the
long lean muscles. She would never recover the soft, curvy padding she had as an ensign. She
was still underweight and as T’Mur knew, had moments of weakness that she tried to cover for..

T’Mur watched approvingly as Sienna bounced towards her. She wondered at what point the
material of her swimsuit, as was technically called, would cease to have the strength to continue
to cover what little of her body it covered. She suddenly felt a little overdressed. This explained
her mysterious absences over the past couple of days. And perhaps the reason, in part, of the
lack of telepathic connection. It was difficult to keep a secret when your minds are inextricably
linked.

“The “drill” as you call it, might have some benefits to both of our recoveries,” T’Mur said,
working on keeping her emotions in check.

T’Mur had to admit that she had enjoyed Sienna’s curvier body, but the sight of her leaner, more
toned body was quite arousing. She still had curves in just the right places. Places that her
hands could hold her. As she padded up to her the Vulcan moved quickly.
She stepped forward and swept Sienna into her arms. She pulled her in and kissed her long and
hard, feeling their minds beginning to come together.

::My mind to your mind. Your mind to mine. Ever and always touching and touched.::

Sienna laughed as her mate grabbed onto her. She leaned in eagerly as her mate kissed her
and claimed her mind. ::I want your hands on my face. I want to feel you reinforce the bond. As
you did during Pon’Farr. I am your mate, I endured crossing time and universes to be with you. I
love you. This isn’t what you deserve, but it’s the best that I can do with the resources at hand.
But…:: And there was a ripple of laughter, ::Not even for you will I endure camping.::

T’Mur enjoyed the sensation of her mates laugh through her mind and the joyful images that it
brought. Slowly the two went to their knees facing each other. T’Mur’s left hand went to Sienna’s
face and found the pressure points she was looking for. Then her right hand.

Suddenly she sunk her mind deep into her mate’s where there were no secrets, no doubts, only
their unabashed love for each other.

Sienna’s eyes closed as she knelt across from her mate on the warm sands of the holodeck and
surrendered all she was to her vulcan mate. This was home.

(reply none)
(posted by Al and Mel)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Day 1
Stardate: 2446.06.20

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CO Captain Sekal - 1023)

The Captain was standing before the command chair as the main viewscreen activated.

=^= Captain Sekal. =^=

Sekal remembered this individual, Billy Williams now a Lieutenant Commander sat at a desk
with a window behind him through which blue sky and puffy white clouds could be seen. Billy
had once been the aide of Admiral Remae and was now serving under Admiral Bell. Sekal had
seen him many times on Mars during his days at the Academy and he had always fit in well with
his duties.

"Lieutenant Commander Williams." He held up his right hand in a salute. "Live long and
prosper."

=^= Thank you Captain. =^= The young man's face brightened. =^= I've been notified that
Illuminar has entered Sector 001. =^=

"Affirmative. The ship has just passed the orbit of Jupiter. Estimated time of arrival at Utopia
Planitia is two hours and twenty five minutes."

=^= Excellent. Admiral Bell has passed on orders that you dock the Illuminar and for your crew
to disembark. =^= He noticed the raised eyebrow and carried on quickly. =^= They are not
mothballing the ship sir, have no fear. No shore leave is to be permitted until preparations are
complete.=^=

"Preparations?" His head tilted slightly.

=^= Classified sir. Your orders were just sent. Admiral Bell wanted you to be notified to expect
them. =^=

"Captain."

His eyes turned toward William who had been monitoring fleet channels.

"A communique from command has been received. Sealed orders under your command codes."

"Send them to my Ready Room."

"Aye sir."

=^= Good. =^= Billy Williams was smiling. =^= I will leave you to your duties Captain. It was
good to speak with you.=^=

Sekal nodded just before the screen blanked. He turned about and opened the internal comm.

"This is the Captain. Illuminar will arrive at Utopia Planitia in two hours and twenty minutes. All
crew be prepared to disembark at spacedock at approximately thirteen hundred hours pending
a confirmation of orders which will be verified shortly."

He ended the communication, turned over the bridge to the officer of the watch then moved to
his office.

(Reply: All)

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Ready Room - CO Captain Sekal - 1045)

The sealed orders were short and to the point. They contained not only what Lieutenant
Commander Williams had spoken but orders for himself and Commander Verin to appear for a
briefing at the UP Mars surface headquarters at 0800 on the 21st, the next day. There was
nothing else. Why Mars and not Fleet Headquarters on Earth? Unknown.

Would there be repercussions for losing a valued member of his command staff? Unknown and
not a concern. If this was preparatory to a full investigation of Commander Gregory's
disappearance then he had nothing to hide. Reports and logs from the Edmund Hillary would be
pulled and examined in minute detail. Those reports had already been sent in and the records
would bear them out.

That did not however appear to be the case though an investigation was warranted and would
most likely occur at any rate. No, Illuminar had been ordered back to Sector 001 before the
event. Not having enough information to extrapolate from he refused to place odds on what this
might entail or what the next mission might be.
He closed out the orders and activated the comm. "This is the Captain. Orders for
disembarkment have been confirmed. All hands be prepared to leave the ship once docking at
Utopia Planitia has been completed. Engineering to power down all systems once the umbilical
for dock power has been attached and power transfer confirmed. Security to confirm the
departure of all personnel. Quarters for all have been set aside in the Academy living quarters
facility on the surface. Leaves for those who qualify have been canceled. Duration of stay
unknown."

(Reply: All)

He closed his eyes for a moment. The situation was beyond highly unusual. Did it have
something to do with the launch of the ship that had just been completed and tested? Again
unknown. There were not enough details to piece together to form a coherent picture.

(Reply: All)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri - 1025)

Zara was on the bridge at the main science station. It wasn't her first time there, but in the past
it had been the night shift. This was her first time on the main day watch and it was thrilling.

She was still smiling.

When a message from Starfleet came and Captain Sekal stood to receive it, Zara swivelled in
her chair to observe, her bearing immediately becoming serious. The Illuminar was on its way
to Mars, so she was eager to learn what the message was.

The person calling was the aide to Admiral Bell.

=^=Admiral Bell has passed on orders that you dock the Illuminar and for your crew to
disembark. They are not mothballing the ship, sir, have no fear. No shore leave is to be
permitted until preparations are complete.=^=

That sounded mysterious. The Illuminar wasn't being removed from service, but the entire crew
was ordered to leave it. Were they being reassigned? Was the ship being upgraded? What
preparations did the aide mean? When they left the ship, were they to take their personal
belongings? Zara didn't have a lot, but she wanted to keep what she had. She wanted to ask,
but that wouldn't be appropriate, at least at that time.

Of course the preparations were classified and not to be sent over an open channel.

Captain Sekal entered his ready room, and after some time passed, he announced the
disembarking was confirmed.

Zara was so curious, she was ready to pop.

(reply any)
(posted by Mary Lou)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1026)
Tegian had made sure he was on the Bridge when the Illuminar arrived in the Sol system. Thus,
he was present to listen to the conversation the Captain had with the aide of Admiral Bell.

Then the Captain addressed everyone aboard the Illuminar.

"This is the Captain. Illuminar will arrive at Utopia Planitia in two hours and twenty minutes. All
crew be prepared to disembark at spacedock at approximately thirteen hundred hours pending
a confirmation of orders which will be verified shortly."

Tegian keyed in orders for all of Engineering to meet in Main Engineer at 1100 and sent it as a
priority order to all in Engineering, waking any member that was asleep. If all crew were to
disembark from the Illuminar, then he presumed Luma was going to have to be transferred and
that they were going to have to power the ship's systems down to just the basics. A ship was
never truly powered down unless it was going to be mothballed and he had heard the
Lieutenant Commander reassure the Captain that was the case. But, to shut down the ship to
just basic systems required everyone in Engineering if they were going to do it quickly and
efficiently.

He looked through the roster in Engineering and summoned Cadet Uvaaki to the Bridge to
cover for him. She was the newest member of the Engineering team and had put in for a leave
of absence from Starfleet due to an ailing family member. It didn't seem like they were going
there now, but she'd be able to catch a shuttle and then transport back to her family. In the
meantime, she could cover for him on the bridge.

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - CEO Office - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1045)

Tegian had been in his office, reviewing the procedures, again, for shutting down the ship to just
basic systems when the Captain came across all intercoms.

=^=This is the Captain. Orders for disembarkment have been confirmed. All hands be prepared
to leave the ship once docking at Utopia Planitia has been completed. Engineering to power
down all systems once the umbilical for dock power has been attached and power transfer
confirmed. Security to confirm the departure of all personnel. Quarters for all have been set
aside in the Academy living quarters facility on the surface. Leaves for those who qualify have
been canceled. Duration of stay unknown. =^=

Tegian's first reaction was to send a message to Cadet Uvaaki on the bridge reassuring her that
he would confirm her leave of absence, but to stay at her post.

He acknowledged the message from the Captain and then sent Commander Verin a reminder
about Cadet Uvakki's leave of absence from the Illuminar.

(Reply Verin iyw)

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1050)

Tegian didn't need to review the shutdown procedures for the fourth time, so he wandered out of
his office into Main Engineering where Ensign Ssvresh was now in charge of the Alpha shift. It
was a rough way to assume the duties, having to take over for Ensign zh'Firre after her death.
Ensign Ssvresh moved over to him and asked, “Is there any assistance you require before we
leave the ship?”

Tegian nodded. "Yes. I'll address everything in ten minutes, Ensign. I want to make sure I only
have to cover this once."

(Reply Ssvrech iyw)

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1050)

Tegian stood on one of the tables in the middle of Main Engineering while Ensign T'lan stood
nearby with a Padd checking off names. Another cluster of four came through the doors and
she nodded up at him indicating that was everyone.

Tegian raised his voice and said, "I'd like to begin now," in an attempt to talk over the various
conversations around the room. Some people quieted down, others kept talking. "Quiet
please!" he said much louder and the rest of the conversations quieted.

"Okay, thank you for coming. First, I don't know why we've been ordered off of the Illuminar.
But, Engineering and Security will be the last ones off. Once we're docked and the umbilical is
attached to the Illuminar, we will power down all non-essential systems and then the warp core.
After that, the computer core will be powered down to standby mode and we will do a sweep of
the entire ship in pairs."

"We are expected to dock at approximately 1300. So, you have a little less than two hours to
pack your belongings. And then I want everyone back here at 1245. Your shift leaders will have
your assignments. I expect the shutdown and walkthrough to take us at least two hours."

Tegian looked over the assembled group. "We aren't mothballing the ship. But, I don't know
when we might be returning. So, pack everything you want to take with you, including pets and
plants. There won't be anyone left behind to take care of them."

Tegian looked around. "Any questions?"

(Reply Any in Engineering)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Holodeck 1 - Operations Ensign James ‘Jay’ Shaw - 1100)

Jay looked at the other three members of his, in the loosest sense of the word, team. Fresh out
of his training, he was assigned to the USS Raptor as one of the damage control officers. He
had been on the ship for a week now, and every day was the same, suit up, run a drill or three
and debrief. The good news is the team was getting to know the nooks and cranies. The ship
was the largest he had served on, well, served wasn’t quite the word. His cruises had been on
smaller ship. He also was finally understanding the structure of operations, where he had
landed. Most damage control teams were in the Engineering department, and they dealt with
the big issues - engines, warp core, weapons and the like. As part of operations, his team’s job
was to work on the other issues.

Today, in this simulation, his team was working to preserve the computer core functionality while
dealing with a plasma fire.
“OK,” Jay said to his team, “The scenario, as written, is that we’re going to be entering the
computer core, which is located where?” he asked

“Deck 11,” came the reply from Zixx, the Bolian. Jay looked at his PADD. “Correct. There is
supposed to be a plasma fire in the core. We have three tasks. Contain and extinguish the fire.
Reroute the power to the computer core and repair any damaged chips.”

The Vulcan, V’loth, spoke, “How do you want to divide the team, sir?”

“Zixx, you and Savu partner. Your primary mission will be fire suppression. V’loth and I will start
on the core assessment.” He looked around at the nods. “OK, lets get ready,”

Jay turned to the instructor, “We’re ready,” he said.

The instructor nodded and pushed some commands on her PADD. The holodeck changed.
The team was in a hallway. Red lights were flashing. [Warning fire in the computer core] came
the computers voice [Damage Team Alpha to Deck 11]

Jay looked at his team, “OK, let’s suit up,” he said to his team, as he ran towards their
designated spot.

The four quickly got into their white protective clothing and grabbed their gear. Within 3
minutes, they had suited up and were at the entrance to the computer core. “Zixx, check the
controls. Everyone go to internal oxygen,” Jay said. “Activate containment.”

Two shimmering fields snapped into view. “Zero oxygen,” Zixx called, “Plasma still burning.”

“OK, ready for a flashback,” Jay said. He and V’loth stood to one side of hte door, Zixx and
Savu on the other side. Jay opened the door, and there was the expected flashback as flames
poured into the corridor before it used the remaining oxygen.

“Now,” Jay said as the four moved into the chamber. The fire was on the far side of the
chamber. Zixx and Savu moved to fight the fire while V’loth moved to the computer terminal and
stared running diagnostics. “Panel 2, section delta, chipset 34-38,” V’loth called to Jay.

(Reply none)
(posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Holodeck 1 - Operations Ensign James ‘Jay’ Shaw - 1115)

Zixx activated the hand-held extinguisher, specifically designed for plasma fires. Savu joined
with his device. Slowly, the fire was cut down to allow Savu to reach the shunt switch.

The plasma flow was immediately cut off. This allowed Jay to move to panel two, where he
plugged in his tricorder and began scanning. The damaged chips lit up red.

Zixx knelt down and began to repair the plasma conduit. Savu passed him the necessary tools.
Meanwhile, V’loth moved over to Jay and the two began removing the damaged chips, replacing
them with the ones they carried in. It was slow going to remove the chip, insert a new chip
before confirming the new chip.
Seven minutes later, the plasma conduit was repaired and Zixx reset flow through it, bringing
the computer core back to full power. V’loth and Jay finished the chip replacement and were
running final diagnostics.

A minute later, they were out of the room and the simulation ended. Their trainer stood there,
“Debrief,” she said as 6 chairs materalized.

Jay cracked his suit, breathing the ships air, “Yes Ma’am.” For the next 45 minutes the team
dissected the exercise, their response, how to speed up the repairs. At the end, they decided
that there was not much they could have done faster. Some of the work would speed up with
time and training.

Finally they were dismissed. The first thing they did was to hit the showers.

(USS Raptor - Deck 13 - ODN/EPS Trunk Junction - Operations Ensign James ‘Jay’ Shaw -
1400)

Jay grabbed a quick bite to eat, some bread and stew, in the officers mess. The ship still
seemed empty as the whole crew was not onboard yet.
After his lunch, he decided to explore the ship some more. Only way to know where things
were was to get there. Today was deck 13. Climbing up the Jeffries tube, he entered the inner
workings of the ship. After 10 minutes of crawling around, he got to his destination, the
ODN/EPS trunk junction.

Jey took out his penny whistle and put it to his lips. He ran a quick scales before breaking into
‘The Rocky Road to Dublin.’

(USS Raptor - Deck 14 - Main Shuttle Bay - Flight Operations Officer Charlie 1420)

The flight operations officer Lieutenant, jg Charlie was sipping his coffee when he started
hearing a new sound. It wasn’t a sound he was used to hearing. He’s been involved in the
flight operations since the early testing of the Raptor. “What the heck is that noise?” he called
out to his team.

(reply none)
(posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar - Deck 3 - Officers' Quarters - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1120)

Tegian left Main Engineering after watching everyone else file out and headed to his own
quarters. He looked around and went to his replicator and created a few boxes. He began
packing his room, neatly, moving from one corner to the next. He hadn't come to the Illuminar
with many possessions, but the ones he had were too important to him to leave behind. He had
one bag full of fencing gear and another for clothing and some small, personal items that he'd
brought from home.

He ended up with two boxes and one long bag for his epee's. He labeled everything multiple
times with his name and determined his temporary berth and left them outside his door. He
then powered down his room on his way out and wandered back to engineering to pack up his
office.

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - CEO's Office - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1252)

His office looked cleaner than when he'd moved into it. He'd boxed up a lot of the material that
Lieutenant Bohb had left behind, printed schematics and lots of notes on modifications to the
original specifications. Tegian hadn't had a chance to see if all of this information was in the
computer, but he also wasn't going to need to take it with him. For now, there were four neat
boxes in the corner. His desk actually was shining because he'd scrubbed it clean.

He had been downloading information onto a few PADDs of things that he wanted to take with
him and he'd replicated a bag to carry them. He checked the time, decided that the quick
packers would probably start arriving and went out into Main Engineering.

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 1254)

Tegian stepped out of his office and saw a small crowd had already arrived. As expected,
Ensign T'lan was amongst them. He also saw Ensign Ssvrech entering as well.

He walked over to Ensign T'lan and motioned for Ensign Ssvrech to join him. Ensign Zowie
walked in and joined them.. He motioned all three to follow him into his office.

"Our time table got pushed back a bit due to Luma getting moved off of the ship much later than
I was originally told. We won't be powering down the computer core until after she's off which
isn't until 2330 or so. I want to make sure we don't push our people too much."

"Ensign Ssvrech, I want you to supervise the umbilical connection to the dock. Take a portion of
the Alpha shift and verify that we can draw enough power to keep life support throughout the
ship once we power down our own systems."

"Ensign T'lan, your shift can find their berths at the Academy. If any of them are willing to
transport Alpha or Beta's posessions, that would be appreciated, but it's not required. Then they
can get some shuteye and report back to the ship at 1700."

"Ensign Zowie, the Beta shift can get lunch and finish any packing. I want them back here at
1400 to start the shutdown on non-essential systems."

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 2330)

A very tired Tegian had confirmed that Luma had transferred to her crystal. Much of the ship
was now silent and running on power from the umbilical cord. But, the core was still active as
was the computer. His engineering shifts had made multiple passes through each deck and
non-essential room to power down everything not needed to keep the Illuminar from
deteriorating in their absence and to allow the ship to be habitable should anyone board her in
their absence. They'd already stumbled across a few lost pets, forgotten plants, and misplaced
keepsakes, not to mention plenty of rooms that should have been powered down. Or had been
powered down and someone had come back after and powered them back on.

That's why Tegian had them making multiple passes. Tegian was running nearly on empty,
though. He had managed to get his own possessions to the Academy and his own berth. And
he had eaten once today. But, a lot of questions and a few panicked calls had him too
distracted to have remembered to eat dinner.

He'd sent the Alpha shift to their new quarters, but kept the Beta shift in service, although he
had them switch with Gamma shift a few hours ago to give them a rest from walking the ship.
Everyone was tired from the long day.

Now, it was time to complete the shutdown of the computer core and then the warp core and
leave the Illuminar just on what Tegian considered basic life support. Emergency lighting, life
support, communications and power to all doors and lifts would be the only thing left when they
were through. It's funny how much would still have power even when you thought about the
order to shut down all systems.

He hit his comm badge. "Ensign Zowie, begin the shutdown of the computer core, please."
That was another reason for switching the shifts. Priscallia was his best computer expert. As
far as he knew, the best on the ship. Who else would he want to shut down the computer core
than her?

=^= Starting the computer core shutdown, Lieutenant. It will take me about twenty minutes to
fully shut it down properly. I've already done a full backup and made a copy that we can take
with us. =^=

Tegian hadn't considered that. "Good thinking, Ensign. Contact us when you're done and we'll
start the warp core shut down. Once you're finished, those with you can head to your new
quarters for some sleep. Those with me can get some sleep once the warp core is done."

(USS Illuminar - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 2347)

Tegian was drinking another cup of extra strong green tea, trying to stay awake. Everytime he
sat down, he'd start to close his eyes, so he had taken to walking around and sipping his tea.

=^= Ensign Zowie to Lieutenant Pex, the computer core is now powered down. We're leaving
now. Good night, sir. =^=

"Thank you, Ensign. Good work. I'll check in with everyone in the morning when we should
know more."

Tegian looked around the room at the three remaining members of the Beta shift. "Okay, we're
going to start the warp core shut down now."

He walked over to the console and hit a button to make an announcement over the entire ship.
"This is Lieutenant Pex in Main Engineering. We will be shutting down the warp core now. The
ship will just be running on the power from the umbilical cord after this point. Please don't
attempt to turn on any major system without first contacting Engineering. Thank you." He
turned off communications and faced the three.

"Okay, let's do it."

Seventeen minutes later, the warp core was powered down and members of the Gamma shift
had collected during that time, watching them.
Tegian nodded in satisfaction, mixed with some sadness. The Illuminar sounded so quiet,
almost dead. "Great job today, everyone. Ensign T'lan, is everyone from Gamma accounted
for?"

"Yes, Lieutenant. Everything is powered down," she replied.

"Okay, then let's go find our new berths and get some sleep."

(Reply None)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar - Disembark Ramp - SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1301)

She disembarked the ship with one suitcase to last a few days as she was informed. She didn't
like to not know why they were leaving the ship and to what the new mission is forthcoming.
She checked in to the academy dorm room as she was told to do. It kind of reminded her of the
facilities at cheer camp. There was one time at cheer camp when a mean girl took a stuffed lion
from one of the other cheerleaders. The mean girl hid the stuffed lion in a bathroom stall behind
the toilet. She searched for it all day until it was found when she needed to relieve herself and
found it by pure luck.

The girl greatly appreciated that Ariel found it and they became friends apart from cheer camp.
She hasn't talked with this girl for a good while since she went to Academy and she hasn't been
back to Betazed to look her up. She related the situation she was in now to what she was
faced with now. She imagined herself being a secret agent like the old James Bond movies.
She would be in the dark of what her objective is until she extracted information to reveal what
that is to be. It would be so much easier to be told what her objective is so she can plan her
actions accordingly. She could try to read some minds but she was too ethical for that. She sat
on her dorm bed and munched on a turkey sandwich and sipped an iced tea.

(Reply Any)
(Posted by Edward)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - NCO quarters - SO CPO Hercules Devers and P’Rah - 1400)

Herc and P’Rah had packed their kits and found a room in the NCO quarters. Herc had been
watching P’Rah since they learned that Commander Gregory and Leeza Pel didn’t return with
Mr. Weston and Dr. Solace. His Caitain friend didn’t take it well. Herc knew how close P’Rah
had been to the little girl, and P’Rah was clearly depressed. He knew that the Caitain would not
go talk to anyone, it wasn’t his way. It wasn’t Herc’s way either, who tended to work out issues
physically.

It was time for plan B, Devers decided. “Lets hit the chow line and paint the town red.”

P’Rah looked up, “Thanks, but I think I’ll have a quiet night.”

“Not allowed,” Devers replied. “You need to blow off some steam, we don’t have leave, so this
is the best we can do.”

P’Rah sighed, “You’re not going to let up, are you?”
“What are friends for?”

“Fine, let’s go.”

(Mars - The Canton Bar - Marines - 1800)

The two security officers, dressed in civilian cloths, sat at the bar. They were drinking beer with
whiskey chasers. Between the two of them was a plate of mostly finished classic bar food.
Devers was careful not to mention Leeza, but let P’Rah talk and unburden himself. They had
been at the bar since about 1430, so we well into feeling no pain.

A short blond well built woman entered the bar with a battalion of marines behind her. “Alright
children. You made your mamma proud. Enjoy.” The Major Calahan turned to the bartender.
“Hey Sparky, their first round is on me.”

“You got it Major,” the bartender replied.

The Marines cheered and crowded around the bar and started calling out orders. Drinks were
ordered and drunk quickly. The two security officers kept to themselves, their ongoing
conversation in quiet tones till a few of the marines got a bit roudy. There was some pushing
and a pitcher of beer teetered off a tray and fell over the back of Devers purple dragon shirt.

The man turned around, cursing in French, “Cochon maladroit!” he said as he stood up.
P’Rah’s tail started moving back and forth quicker as he joined his comrade.

“Damned clumsy marines, can’t even hold their beer,” Devers added in english.

“Who’s the clumsy pig?” a burly marine said, standing about a head taller than Devers.

“Must be you, you oaf!” Devers replied. “Herc,” P’Rad said softly.

‘Oaf! I’ll show you oaf,” the marine said, and took a swing at Dever’s face. Which wasn’t there
as the man dropped down and grabbed the marine’s arm, using his momentum to throw him.
The marine landed with an oof on a table, spilling the drinks of his friends.

More angry Marines stood up, with fire in their eyes.

“Herc?” P’Rah said urgently.

“Come on,” he said, “Two verse 8. Should be even odds,” the man said as he get into a fighting
stance, back against the bar.

Behind the bar, the Bartender called security as the battle was joined in earnest.

(Reply None)
(Posted by Kris and Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar -- Personal Quarters -- Deck 2 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 1440)

Quinna looked around her quarters. She was in a way grateful that they were at Mars base.
She thought about going back to Earth for her Maternity leave. That did not seem right, she
was not a mother. Perhaps it was more of a postpartum leave. She wondered where she was
going to go. She did not want to go. Perhaps she was spending her time gown on a sunny
beach away from everything. The thing that bothered her the most is she did not want to be
away from Michael. She had been her support even when she tried to push him away, he was
there.

She did take the opportunity to get rid of the baby things that she had. Her own stuff that was
from when she was a child, she sent back to New York, but the new stuff she had, she just
trashed it. She had no need for it anymore and had no intentions of ever having any family ever
again. She even felt that maybe her situation with Michael was perfect. They never had the
‘talk’ about sharing quarters.

There was one last thing she needed to do. Quinna needed to finish cleaning out Dieter’s
quarters. She had received the instruction and it noted that she was his chosen next of Kin.
Most of everything was gone, but there was still one item left. The lock box where they kept the
pieces to the adventure that started all this.

(USS Illuminar -- Dieters Quaters -- Deck 2 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 1445 )

It was dark in the room. Most have been boxed up and Quinna decided to ship his stuff to
storage at the New York House. She wondered why she was going to keep it. There was no
one to give it to. She went to where he kept his lock box and pulled it out. Entering the code,
she hesitated when opening the box. She looked at the palm of her right hand. The one that
had the ancient Bajorian burned into it. I meant something, but it was gone. What the prophet
had given they had also taken away. She was afraid of what she was not going to find when
she opened the box. She leaned over and slowly opened the lid. There were the stones and
the key to her locket. Quinna took the key from the box and then reached around and took the
locket from around her neck. She slowly inserted the key and turned. A latch clicked and the
locket cracked open. With her finger, she opened it to reveal that the orb fragment that they had
been collecting was gone. What remain in its place was a stone. Purple in origin, one would
think it was a Tanzanite. But to Quinna, she saw Iris’s eyes. And then tears ran down her eyes.
Quinna had hoped the fragment would have been there. That there was still some access to
her daughter, but that avenue was also closed.

Quinna became more alert when the door to her quarters opened and a moving crew came in.
She shoved the locket and the key into the box and shut it quickly. She wiped the tears from her
eyes and stood. She signed the manifest for Dieter’s belonging She grabbed the box and left.

(Reply None)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Mars -- Utopia Planitia -- Transport Station - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 1658)

Quinna decided that if she had to leave the Illuminar then she might as well go home for her
medical recovery. She went looking for Michael and discuss her plans with him but he was busy
at the moment and she need to catch the next transport. She sent Michael a message that she
would be booking passage back to Earth and then he would not have to worry about her when
he was doing whatever the crew was going to do. She stood in the transport station.

“I need the next shuttle to Earth,” Quinna said.
“I am sorry, Ma’am,” the young male country twang came through. “But all shore leave for the
Illuminar crew has been canceled.”

Quinna shook her head, “Book me, I am not on shore leave. I am on medical leave, now do
your job, Ensign…”

“It is Ensign Apothis, Commander, Ma’am.” He told her, “And I am under strict orders not to let
any Illuminar crew leave.”

Quinna was feeling desperate, “I order you, Ensign, to get me to Earth.”

By this time, a couple of security guards were at Quinna’s side. “Ma’am, you have been
informed that you are not allowed to leave. If you are insistent then we can find a place for you
to go.”

“The this is, I am not on shore leave. I had surgery a week ago. I just want to go home to
recoup.” Quinna turned back to the Ensign. She pounded her fists on the desk and pleaded
with him. “Get me to earth, please.”

The Ensign looked at the security officers the young man was on the verge. The security
officers relieved her of her bag and escorted her to the Brig. Quinna was placed in a holding
cell while the Security officers contacted Admiral Sakele.

“Admiral Sakele,” the security officer said, “we have detained an Illuminar Officer rather
intensely demanding transport to Earth.”

(Reply Sakele, or any)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars -- UP - ScientificR&D -- Office - Vice - Admiral Saleke -- 1703)

The Vulcan had finished his presentation for the briefing long before. The technical aspects of
the briefing were simple, an introduction to the vessel of which Captain Sekal was already
aware. His executive officer was not so that had to be incorporated along with all mission
pertinent information. There was not much data concerning the Typhon Expanse due to the
difficulty in penetrating it therefore the scientific portion was also abbreviated. His part in the
briefing then would be short.

=^= Admiral a transmission for you. Audio only. =^=

"Patch it through."

=^= Admiral Sakele, we have detained an Illuminar Officer rather intensely demanding transport
to Earth. =^=

Why had they decided to call him about the matter? It's pretty simple really as Saleke was the
only Admiral currently on Mars, the others would arrive in the morning and he was the highest
ranking officer on the base.

"Acknowledged. What is the name of said officer?"
=^= Commander Quinna Solice sir. The commander refused to stand down when approached.
She was trying to book a shuttle to Earth. =^=

He turned his head showing surprise. The third officer of the vessel had been detained for
failure to follow orders? In order to get thrown into detention she would have to have been
insistent or physically aggressive. This circumstance was completely unexpected.

"I do believe Commander Solice might need something of a 'time out' at this point. Show her
your hospitality and I will investigate it personally in a few hours." 'Time out'. A phrase of which
Luma'lenai was fond, generally an informal trope adapted from human vernacular relating to the
discipline of a child and in this case highly appropriate.

=^= Understood Admiral, she is being booked now. =^=

"Saleke out."

(Reply: None yet)
(Posted by Charles Gatling
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - SFI Headquarters - SFI Director’s Office - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 1715)

Director Avril Haines sat behind her desk with her usual look of a woman who knew way more
than she really wanted to about what is happening in the universe. She looked at Weston as he
crossed the carpet to her desk.

“Hello Michael,” she said, without standing, “or should I say Lt. Weston.”

Michael stopped at the desk but didn’t sit down. “We do what we do to fit in,” Weston replied.

“I hear you’re doing more than fitting,” Haines said. “You’re a regular part of the crew.”

Michael shrugged noncommittally, “It suits my purpose… for now.”

Haines chuckled, “Same old Michael. What about the woman?”

Michael was surprised that she brought Quinna up and wasn’t sure how to respond. Quinna has
left him vulnerable, for sure. But more for her own safety than his. If whoever burned him came
after her it could get… ugly.

Suddenly the director of SFI laughed and stood up, “Never mind. Don’t answer that. The look on
your face was priceless. We’ve all been there Michael. Believe me.”

Michael took the director for her word. He never heard why she had taken a desk job in the first
place. But her rise to the directorship was swift and quiet.

“So tell me why you contacted me, Avril?” he finally asked. “I don’t think it was to reinstate me
as a field op.”

Hanes sat on the corner of her desk. Her uniform hugged tightly to her still athletic build. Even at
her age she was still a very attractive woman.
“Please Michael, sit,” she said, indicating to a chair. “You’re at home here.”

Now it was Michael’s turn to laugh, but he took her up on her offer and sat down.

“I wanted to talk with you about something you’ve been diving into recently,” Haines said.

Now Michael was interested. He always like to hide his investigations by researching multiple
items at the same time. That way if anyone tried to trace his digital footprint it would lead them
down several possible paths. However, he was pretty sure he knew what she was going to
bring up.

“Please,” he said sitting back, “speak freely.”

“There’s a document you’ve been looking into,” she said. She stood up and started pacing. “A
Klingon document in origin, but you’ve found it is not really just a Klingon source. Some thing
that’s been labeled the Tholian Brief.”

“Have you been tracing my computer time,Director?” he asked. “On the Illuminar?”

She shook her head, “No, and don’t think I can’t. But one of your sources set off an alarm and I
was notified. This is a dangerous path you’re walking Michael. Are you sure you want to go
down it?”

“I was looking into it for a friend,” Michael admitted, now that he had been discovered. Denying
it would only lead to suspicion. “I wasn’t sure how much I wanted to find out about it. That was…
until now. What’s SFI’s interest in the brief?”

“Our interest is to keep more people from dying because of it,” she said, seriously. “We know of,
at least, a dozen names linked to it, all of whom are dead. Almost anyone that has any
knowledge of its existence is in dire jeopardy. You are in dire jeopardy. You should stop looking
into, now.”

“Is that an order, Director?” Michael asked, his eyes narrowing.

“I can’t,” she said, “and won’t make such an order. Least of all to you. This is just a piece of
friendly advice.”

Michael stood up and face Haines. “What’s in that brief?”

“I don’t know, Michael,” she said, and he believed her. “I don’t want to know. Not really. Please
Michael, let it go. It won’t bring your friend, or his family, back.”

Weston paused. He took a breath and finally said, “I’ll consider it.”

Haines nodded, knowing full well that was his way of telling her to forget it. She went to her desk
and picked up a data card.

“If I can’t get you to stop May I can preoccupy you with something more pressing,” she said,
handing him the card. “The Illuminar is going to be asked to do something. This information
might help. It’s highly classified and there’s no way of tracing back to us so if you’re caught with
it you’re on your own.”
Michael looked at the disk and then back at the Director. He took hold of the card and nodded. If
it was going to help the Illuminar then he’d take the risk.

Haines nodded and smiled. “Never thought I’d see the day when Michael Weston was even
semi-domesticated. Well, good luck Lt. Weston.”

Weston nodded at Haines. “Thanks.”

He put the card in one of the hidden pockets of his pants and shook her hand. And I do
appreciate the warning.”

With that he turned to leave as Haines sat behind her desk.

Suddenly she called out, “Hey Michael, it appears your girlfriend has gotten herself in the brig.
Just came in.”

Michael stopped for a moment and closed his eyes. He sighed and continued out of the office.

(reply none)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars -- UP - ScientificR&D -- Office - Vice - Admiral Saleke and CO, Captain Sekal -- 1720)

"Contact Captain Sekal and have him meet me here in ten minutes."

=^= Yes Admiral. =^=

He ended the communication and walked to the window. Scientific R&D was adjacent to the
Science building and he would be there cataloging the data accumulated by the Illuminar and
transferred to the base mainframe. There was no need for him to sprint across the base as he
had done when the Mystique had been boarded by Roanoke operatives. Saleke had not been in
the fleet when that happened, he had rejoined later, transferring from the VDF. He had heard the
tale however.

The Mystique had been unoccupied at the time and those in training remained on the grounds.
Sekal had already bonded with the being and had been acting as her advocate with Admiral
Remae, he had been awakened during the early hours of the night as Luma had managed to
get out a signal. In order for security officers to board the ship Sekal had to be with them or she
refused to lower the shields which had been raised to keep out further intrusions. Sekal,
according to reports, having snapped off a report to Remae had put his running skills to good
use in crossing the grounds to the transporter hub which was still located near the space port
and behind the security center.

Several minutes later there was a tone from the security system.

"Enter."

He was looking across the grounds when Sekal entered.

"Admiral, you wished to see me?"
"Yes." He turned from the view to face his son.

"For what purpose?"

Saleke stepped back to the desk. "One of your officers has run afoul of security. I assume you
made it clear that all leaves were cancelled?"

Sekal gave him a surprised look. "I was very clear. What crewman transgressed the order?"

"Your third officer."

Sekal's eyes opened wide for sn instant. "Surprising."

"Very." Saleke cupped his hands behind his back, a gesture that Sekal routinely copied, he had
begun imitating his father when young. "And disappointing. I assumed that you were enforcing
proper discipline upon your ship."

The point was not lost upon the Captain. "It would appear that my efforts have fallen short.
Science and medical tend toward being free spirited as I'm certain you are aware but I accept
responsibility for the failure as her commanding officer."

Saleke's open gesture closed as he crossed his arms before him, his stance hardened. "This is
what I am aware of. StarFleet expects discipline within its ranks no matter their department and I
enforced discipline while with the fleet. I am also aware that this generation has not yet gone
through a war which underscores the necessity for that discipline. I expect you to demand that
from your officers and crew before its lack costs you your ship, crew and life. If there is another
such breach I will be bringing it before a council for review."

Sekal dipped his chin in a sharp nod. "Understood. What is her current situation?"

"She has been placed in the brig after demanding a shuttle flight to Earth and she will remain
there until I see fit to have her released."

Sekal didn’t argue the point, to do so would have been illogical as well as futile. "I understand
and agree."

Saleke gave a sharp nod. "You may return to your duty."

Sekal bowed his head and retreated from the office, there was still much to do and his dismissal
had been clear.

(Reply: None)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars -- Utopia Planitia -- Brig - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice SO CPO Hercules
Devers and P’Rah – 1830)

There was a commotion down the hall. Quinna heard singing in French. “Il est de notres. Il a
bu son verre comme les autres. C’est un ivrogne.” Around the corner came two of the Illuminar
security staff. One was the Caitain P’Rah, a friend of Michael’s. The other was, she wracked
her brain, Devers something. She’s sitched him up a few times after training accidents, and one
time when he had fought at some underground fight club on Mars.

Quinna moved close to the field careful not to touch it. She was careful as she already learned
a shocking lesson as to what you happen if she did touch it. Next time, she may lose the
contents of her bladder.

“Looks like I am not the one visiting this 5 star resort.” Quinna comment, “I take it that this is not
a prison break.”

The security guards approached the door. After a moment, they deactivated it and pushed the
two into the room with Quinna. “Sleep it off,” one of them said. “Good think the Marines didn’t
want to proffer charges. “

Quinna was taken a back. Staring that officers as they gave her two roommates. When the
field was reactivated again, Quinna could not help herself as she start laughing, “Marines
pressing charges, this has to be good.”

Quinna help the pair get to a bunk and sat between them. “So…” She started, “... this I have to
hear.” She looked back and forth between them.

The two were sporting signs of being in a fight. Various bruises were turning a nice purple. It
was harder to see the injuries on the Caitain.

“You see Ma’am,” P’Rah said, “We were quietly minding out own business at The Canton Bar,”

“Our own business,” Devers agreed, “Just having a quiet drink, since we are not getting any
shore leave.”

“And well, Herc wanted to teach me a French drinking song,” P’Rah said.

Devers chuckled, “Have you ever heard a Caitain try to speak French?”

“It is not recommended,” P’Rah said with a deadpan look at Quinna.
Quinna was trying hard to hold her face. She was trying to get a mental picture as to the
events. “So tell me about the Marines.”

P’Rah nodded, “Well, it seems one of the Marines spoke french and too insult to what Herc was
singing.”

Herc chuckled, “Its a traditional song, not sure why he was so upset?”

“Seriously?” P’Rah said, “You called him a, what was the term?”

“Oh, that?” Devers replied, “I called him a son of.” he paused, “I’m sorry Ma’am, it’s not
something to be said in polite company.”

“No worries, I have probably said worse.” Quinna stood and walked to door. She yelled out,
“Hey can I get a med kit in here. I have wounded.”

But her call went unheard.
“That is ok, Ma’am,” Devers said, “I’ve had worse after training.”

Quinna went back to her seat between them, “And…”

“Well Ma’am, there were about 8 or 10 of them,” P’Rah said.

“I say looking at the two of you I can assume you two won.” Quinna made the assumption.

Devers nodded, “Vous jouez avec le taureau, vous obtenez les cornes as my great-great
grandfather used to say. They didn’t know what hit them,” he said. “I think three are in sickbay.
Would have been more, but base security showed up.”

“apparemment ils ne pouvaient pas courir plus vite que le taureau” Quinna replied.

Devers burst out laughing, “Doctor, I didn’t realize you speak French.”

“Just don’t tell anyone.” Quinna said. “Bookworm, remember.”

“It certainly helped me get out some emotional issues,” P’Rah added.

“It wasn’t a fair fight truth be told,” Devers said, “And they made a very satisfying thump when
they hit the floor.”

P’Rah chuckled.

Quinna smiled, “I can imagine.”

“Why are you in here Doc?” Devers asked

Quinna thought about it. “Could be disorderly conduct, maybe it was desertion. Maybe I yelled
so hard at an ensign, I made him cry. Who knows? Starfleet has kidnapped me and is not
letting me go home.” and that is how she felt. Being held again her will.

“Well Ma’am, if we had known, we’d have hatched a cunning plan to get you out of here,”
Devers said. “P’Rah’s a bit of an expert when it comes to breaking out of things.”

P’Rah gave her a toothy smile, “I may have some experience,” he said with a smile as he flexed
his hands.

“And now we are in the Pokie. Next time I plan to get arrested, I will let you in on the plan.
Well,if I cannot get to my resort spa to recuperate then I guess I can just relax here.” Quinna
said. “And I have roomies to boot.”

(Reply none)
(Posted by Kris and Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston and CMO/3XO Commander Quinna
Solice- 1835)
It took Weston a while to get to the UP Security area, and then even longer to get permission to
go into the brig area. In the end, he had to place a call to Director Haines who got him
admission, somehow. Finally, he stepped into the brig area and nodded at the security guards
that were in attendance.

He looked over to see the occupied cells, and his eyes fell upon Quinna, who appeared to be
talking to… Devers and P’Rah? He had wondered what they had done. But knowing that the
only entertainment made available to the crew of the Illuminar had been a bar, he could only
imagine.

“Next time I plan to get arrested,” he heard Quinna say, “I will let you in on the plan. Well, if I
cannot get to my resort spa to recuperate then I guess I can just relax here. And I have roomies
to boot.”

“Next time?” Michael questioned. “Are you planning on a next time?”

Quinna looked up to see Michael standing there. Of course, he would know she was there.
“You never know.”

“Quinna, what are you doing?” Michael asked. “You know the protocol. We’re on lockdown.
What are you thinking?”

“Actually I hear Shoreleave was canceled. I am not on Shoreleave. I am on Medical leave. Big
Difference.” Quinna explained. “Have you come to spring me, join us, or…” Quinna moved
closer to him and with her seductive eyes, “... initiate a prison break?”

Michael looked at the floor for a moment then couldn’t help himself. He began to laugh. “And
then we can start a Bonnie and Clyde style crimewave throughout the galaxy, just moments
ahead of the Federation, as fugitives from justice? Oh, Quinna Solice, I love you, but even I am
not able to do that. I’m afraid, at this moment, you are at the mercy of Admiral Seleke. Sekal’s
father. At this point, I’m thinking that a spanking might not be enough.”

“So I am supposed to spend the next 6 weeks here on Mars. That sucks. Michael, how are we
supposed to work past this? What is so direly important that we cannot leave this place?”
Quinna said quietly.

Michael shrugged, “I’m not sure. But they are serious about it. Haines even did something nice
for me. Well, not that nice. But for her, nice.”
“Really now? If it is not that nice then she did not recall the burn notice and reinstated you then.
Do tell.” Quinna was curious.

He shook his head, “First of all,” he waved his hand around, “not here. Secondly, repeating the
gesture and nodding his head at Devers and P’Rah, “Not now. Thirdly, I really don’t know what
she gave me yet. I had to come and check out my girlfriend who’d been thrown in the brig.”

“I do appreciate that. I am good.” Quinna said. “I am just all over the place. I didn’t mean to fly
off the handle. Just I am having all the mood swings as such with my hormones trying to get
back to normal post pre…” Quinna stopped. “Anyway… you know.”

Michael nodded, “Do I ever. Do I ever.” He looked over at the two security officers. “You guys
look like you’ve had some fun.”
(reply P’Rah, Devers)
(posted by Al and Kris)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 2030)

He had entered the security center, presented his credentials that were scanned after which he
placed his right hand on the bio scanner. It gave a happy beep.

"Thank you Admiral." The officer of the watch said as he snapped a salute.

"Carry on."

The Vulcan had taken his time in order to give the Illuminar officer a chance to wind down after
the confrontation and consider her current predicament. To those not prone to disobedience the
mere threat of incarceration was sufficient to deter it. The next step was the wielding of
punishment to drive home the point. If that deterrent proved to be insufficient further steps were
taken.

One of the officers was assigned to be his escort as he navigated the holding area, security on
the base was tight for a reason.

Drunk and disorderlies were normally held at the far end, those with more weighty charges
routinely held close. What he found as he neared cell number 2 was a male standing outside
the force field, a Lieutenant by his pips. Saleke had not met him previously.

"Lieutenant." He noted as he stopped before the force field.

(Reply: Weston)

Saleke nodded but remained silent for now as he looked within at an unexpected mishmash.
Inside was one human female, one caitian and one human male. The human male appeared
rough around the edges, the caitian bedraggled, his fur a muss. The human female was the
reason he was here.

"Commander Solice." He crossed his arms which gave him a stern appearance in concert with
his weighing expression atop the Vulcan stoicism. "I was notified of your incarceration for
attempting to break orders. I am waiting for an explanation."

(Reply: Quinna, Devers, P'rah, Weston)

His gaze traveled over the others without speaking, he would give them further consideration in
due time.

(Reply: Quinna, Devers, P'rah, Weston)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice
- 2031)
Quinna was standing there when the Admiral came in. She watched him with curiosity but not
anger. She already has accepted what was to happen.

"Commander Solice." He crossed his arms which gave him a stern appearance in concert with
his weighing expression atop the Vulcan stoicism. "I was notified of your incarceration for
attempting to break orders. I am waiting for an explanation."

Quinna thought that even for a Vulcan he seemed rather abrupt. Quinna remained with a calm
and collected voice. “My apologies, Sir. You see, when shore leave for the crew was canceled,
It never crossed my mind that you meant medical leave as well. I am not sure if you are away of
this but I gave birth a week ago, developed a severe life-threatening infection, had emergency
surgery, and none of that compares to losing my beautiful beautiful baby girl.” Quinna's hands
went to her eyes to keep them from running tears down her face. “My apologies my body's
chemicals are imbalanced. It usually takes a couple of months to go back to a normal state.”

(Reply: Saleke, Devers, P'rah, Weston)

Quinna looked at Saleke inquisitively. “As a doctor, I would highly recommend a 6-week leave
to have both mind and body regain health and strength. With that being said, I am curious as to
what is so dire that I have to be there. Dr. Kyllee Stev is acting CMO while I am on medical
leave. And I have the best medical staff, I think it is not logical to have me there. So that leads
me to ask… What is so important that I am needed here?”

(Reply: Saleke, Devers, P'rah, Weston)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - SFI - Lt. Michael Weston -2032)

Michael had been left to stay with the prisoners as long as he didn’t create any disturbance.
Which apparently included getting him something to sit on. So he sat on the floor. Quinna sat
on the floor of her cell on the other side of the buzzing security field. Michael had already
assessed the field and saw at least three ways to disrupt it so that he could get Quinna out.
However, that would be counterproductive at this time.

They sat, and stood around, regailing Quinna with the tales of the Rhyne in the alternate
universe when the doors of the doors of the holding area opened and a stately looking Vulcan
walked in. Of course, that described most of the Vulcans involved with Starfleet and the UFP.
However, there was something familiar about this one. Then he noticed the Admiral’s ranking
on his uniform. Slowly he stood up, not realizing how his legs had started to fall asleep.

“Lieutent,” the Vulcan said. And that was it. The cadence of the voice. Michael knew exactly
who this was.

“Admiral Saleke,” Michael nodded at him, “I must say I’m surprised to see you here.”

Saleke just looked at him without addressing his comment. He turned to the group in the cell
and spoke to Quinna directly waiting for her explanation of her actions. Quinna made her
apologies and explained about the loss of her baby and the post partum circumstances she was
going through. Then she did the unthinkable.
In world of Intelligence there is knowing a time to attack and a time to hold back. This was
probably a better time to hold back. But then again, that wouldn’t have been Quinna Solice.
She went for the attack.

“What is so important that I am needed here?”

Now it wasn’t that Michael disagreed with the question, but the timing could have been better.
However, now the box had been opened and he was curious what the admiral would say. He
stepped back from the security field and tried to make himself invisible.

(reply Saleke)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - ACMO - Dr. Kyllee Stev -2033)

Stev was grumbling to himself as he stormed into the brig of Utopia Planatia. He couldn’t
understand so many things about this situation. First of all, how in all the universe did Quinna
able to get past all base security to make it to a transport hub. How did she ever get tossed into
the brig.

He had to take some of the blame on himself. Quinna’s story only emphasized his feelings of
abandoning the prophets of Bajor, because they sure as hell had abandoned him. And if they
were able to do all the she said they did, then why couldn’t they rescue his family in their hour of
need. No, the prophets be damned. And that made him a little careless.

Quinna had healed nicely from her physical trauma at the hands of the prophets. However, her
mind was another thing. The emotional turmoil of having your child taken from you, even before
it was born was… well… criminal. On top of that, the typical post partum issues that many
mothers went through under the best of circumstances were still at play. He had recommended
that she return to work as soon as possible, if, for no other reason, to give her something to do
other than think about her loss.

Stev was ready to rip into somebody, but he wasn’t sure who, or really why. Whoever arrested
her? Or himself for letting her out of his sight.

“Can somebody please tell me just what in all that is holy in this universe is going on with Dr.
Solace, and why she is being detained.”

Michael started to walk towards Stev to try and stop him from putting his foot in his mouth but it
was too late. All he saw was the back of a uniform and the rigid butt of a Vulcan. He should
have know that there would be a Vulcan involved.

“You, Mr. Vulcan,” he said, stepping past Weston as if he wasn’t there, “just what are you doing
with my patient?”

(reply Saleke)

“I am Doctor Kyllee Stev and who…” suddenly he noted the insignia on the Vulcan’s tunic and
he stopped, his mouth hanging open in mid tirade. Finally he was able to make his jaw and
vocal chords work together to create words. “Admiral, my apologies. I didn’t realize that Dr.
Solice's transgressions ranked that highly that it required the presence of the Admiral of…
Research and Development?”

(reply Saleke)

“I am Dr. Solice's physician,” Stev said, not backing down. “I have been taking care of her
during her pregnancy and after. I had recommended that Quinna take some time to recuperate
completely, if such a thing is possible, but apparently the fleet and her body are on two very
different schedules.”

(reply Saleke)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - So CPO P'Rah and Hercules Devers -
2034)

P'Rah and Devers sat in the back of the cell to give Lieutenant Weston and Commander Solace
as much privacy as they could. Devers started singing softly, "J'entends le train arriver, il roule
dans le virage Et je n'ai pas vu le soleil depuis que je ne sais pas quand. Je suis coincé dans la
prison de Folsom, et le temps continue de s'éterniser. Mais ce train continue de rouler jusqu'à
San Antone." P'Rah groaned, "Herc, you're off key," he said "and why is the room revolving?"

Devers paused, "Maybe that marine hit you harder than you thought?" The Frenchman began
singing again, but before he could get any going, P'Rah kicked him and whispered under his
breath, "Brass here." Together, the two security officers stood up, at the best attention they
could muster given their state of intoxication. "Commander Solice. I was notified of your
incarceration for attempting to break orders. I am waiting for an explanation." the Vulcan Admiral
said.

Before she could respond, another person appeared. P'Rah recognized the figure as Dr. Kyllee,
and he was hot under the collar.

“You, Mr. Vulcan, just what are you doing with my patient? “I am Doctor Kyllee Stev and who…
Admiral, my apologies. I didn’t realize that Dr. Solice's transgressions ranked that highly that it
required the presence of the Admiral of… Research and Development?”

Devers whispered to P'Rah, "This day just keeps getting better," he said as he tried to remain at
attention.

(reply anyone)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 2035)

 The Lieutenant had rallied and made an attempt to be pleasant which fazed the vulcan not in
the least. The human male and catian had pulled themselves into some semblance of attention
which was compromised by their bedraggled appearance and inability to remain motionless.
The Lieutenant had attempted to melt into the shadows as Commander Solice was speaking.
Saleke had garnered a reputation for missing little if anything and that had never changed. It
was an ability honed by a command officer, inattention to detail could spell catastrophe for
himself and those he oversaw. The slightest detail could be the fulcrum upon which teetered the
balance of life and death in the strictest and most literal sense.

“My apologies, Sir. You see, when shore leave for the crew was canceled, It never crossed my
mind that you meant medical leave as well. I am not sure if you are aware of this but I gave
birth a week ago, developed a severe life-threatening infection, had emergency surgery, and
none of that compares to losing my beautiful beautiful baby girl.”

The commander was becoming emotional, which was easily recognized by her every action,
tone of voice and wetness around her eyes.

 “My apologies my body's chemicals are imbalanced. It usually takes a couple of months to go
back to a normal state.”

"And that is your medical analysis doctor?" He crossed his arms as his feet were set solidly
under him 18" apart.

She straightened and brought herself under control.

 “As a doctor, I would highly recommend a 6-week leave to have both mind and body regain
health and strength. With that being said, I am curious as to what is so dire that I have to be
there. Dr. Kyllee Stev is acting CMO while I am on medical leave. And I have the best medical
staff, I think it is not logical to have me there. So that leads me to ask… What is so important
that I am needed here?”

He was completely unfazed by the question. "If doctor Stev is the acting chief medical officer
and granted medical leave then why is it not on record?" The statement hung in the air like a
cloud, its rustle that of black wings. "There is a detailed record of treatment according to ships
logs up to 18 hours ago but no mention of a request nor is there an entry of prescribed
convalescent leave." Her question was not germaine to the current subject, he had come here
to acertain facts, not suppositions or deflections from the targeted investigation.

(Reply: Quinna)

The sound of the door to the holding cell area opening was clear as she struggled to come up
with a logical explanation.

“Can somebody please tell me just what in all that is holy in this universe is going on with Dr.
Solice, and why she is being detained.”

Saleke ignored the intrusion for the moment, he was waiting for a reply to his question.

“You, Mr. Vulcan, just what are you doing with my patient?”

The admiral turned his head as he shifted his feet to face the new arrival.

“I am Doctor Kyllee Stev and who…”

The Bajoran stopped mid sentance, his jaw working as his face took on a panicked look.
 “Admiral, my apologies. I didn’t realize that Dr. Solice's transgressions ranked that highly that it
required the presence of the Admiral of… Research and Development?”

Saleke's head leaned slightly left as he regarded the man, taking in his rank insignia and
department. "Doctor Stev you acknowledge Commander Solice as your patient?"

“I am Dr. Solice's physician. I have been taking care of her during her pregnancy and after. I
had recommended that Quinna take some time to recuperate completely, if such a thing is
possible, but apparently the fleet and her body are on two very different schedules.”

Saleke's eyes narrowed as he stared down the blustering physician. "This is twice I have been
told that Commander Solice had authorized medical leave Doctor. Perhaps you can explain to
me why Command has no record of such a prescription. If you authorized it as you say then I
would have noted it as I was going through her file not two hours ago for this investigation. Do
you have a logical explanation for its absence?"

(Reply: Stev)

Saleke's gaze had narrowed further. "Why would the ranking officer on base take notice of a
command officer serving detention in the brig doctor? Do you find that illogical? And why? At
this moment I am equally at a loss to explain why a ship's medical officer is incapable of tending
to the routine duties of his office designed to allow his patient relief from duty under StarFleet
mandated statutes. While you are here and since there is no record of such a recommendation I
have questions that you may or may not be fit to answer. Is Commander Solice's physical
condition a threat to her life and well being if she serves limited duty during deployment while
under a qualified physicians watchful eye?"

(Reply: Stev, any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice
- 2037)

Quinna stood back and took a deep breath. She looked in the background of the Admiral and
Stev to see Michael. She felt sorry for him. All she had done was cause him trouble and she
wondered why he is still with her.

Quinna watched the exchange between the Admiral and Stev discussing her medical. Stev had
come to her defense. She could hear P’Rah and Davers in the background laughing as she
could hear them singing in French. It was then that Quinna made the decision.

Saleke's eyes narrowed as he stared down the blustering physician. "This is twice I have been
told that Commander Solice had authorized medical leave Doctor. Perhaps you can explain to
me why Command has no record of such a prescription. If you authorized it as you say then I
would have noted it as I was going through her file not two hours ago for this investigation. Do
you have a logical explanation for its absence?"

Quinna spoke up before Kyllee could answer. “I guess this is my mistake. Medical Leave
required the chief medical officer’s approval, and well in the end I guess it was my responsibility
to make sure all the paperwork was done and submitted.” Quinna said. She was not going to
let Stev go down for her mini outburst.
(Reply Kyllee, Saleke, Westion, P’Rah, Devers)

Saleke's gaze had narrowed further. "Why would the ranking officer on base take notice of a
commanding officer serving detention in the brig doctor? Do you find that illogical? And why? At
this moment I am equally at a loss to explain why a ship's medical officer is incapable of tending
to the routine duties of his office designed to allow his patient relief from duty under
Starfleet-mandated statutes. While you are here and since there is no record of such a
recommendation I have questions that you may or may not be fit to answer. Is Commander
Solice's physical condition a threat to her life and well-being if she serves limited duty during
deployment while under a qualified physician's watchful eye?"

This one Quinna could not answer. But at this point one thing was clear. Quinna was not going
to be given any medical leave. Any time she needed to heal both medically and mentally was
going to have to be done without any time off.

(Reply: Stev, any)

“At this point, I am ready to plea Guilty, I will go back to full duty and for the sake of Starfleet and
what is to come, forgo the events of the past 4 months of my life while on duty, and when I have
the brief hour or two that I am not on duty, I can then spend my time, focused on healing.”

(Reply Kyllee, Saleke, Westion, P’Rah, Devers)

“What is that Vulcan Proverb, The needs of the many outweigh the need of the few or the one.
Of course, I will return to full active duty as of this moment.”

(Reply Kyllee, Saleke, Westion, P’Rah, Devers)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - ACMO - Dr. Kyllee Stev -2038)

Stev shook his head. He was no Spring chicken, and this admiral was not his first rodeo. He
was not about to let himself be badgered by somebody, for any reason. If this. Vulcan wanted
his commission or look into his ability to practice medicine he could give it his best shot.
Sudenly Quinna spoke up. “I guess this is my mistake. Medical Leave required the chief
medical officer’s approval, and well in the end I guess it was my responsibility to make sure all
the paperwork was done and submitted.”

Sekal studied Quinna and then turned back to Kyllee, "Why would the ranking officer on base
take notice of a command officer serving detention in the brig doctor? Do you find that illogical?
And why? At this moment I am equally at a loss to explain why a ship's medical officer is
incapable of tending to the routine duties of his office designed to allow his patient relief from
duty under StarFleet mandated statutes. While you are here and since there is no record of
such a recommendation I have questions that you may or may not be fit to answer. Is
Commander Solice's physical condition a threat to her life and well being if she serves limited
duty during deployment while under a qualified physicians watchful eye?"

Kyllee was not ready to back down an millimeter. “In fact, Admiral, it does not seem logical,
unless you had an agenda in mind. However, to answer your question, is Dr. Solice physically
able to return to a limited duty, absolutely. We had discussed that option. However, I felt that her
mental condition could use a break. And yes, I would recommend the she under a qualified
physician’s care. Now, if you feel that I am not qualified you have every right to remove me from
that duty and ask me to resign from Starfleet. If that is your desire. Over a matter of paperwork,
over a matter of my skills as a doctor.”

Quinna interrupted the interaction, “At this point, I am ready to plea Guilty. I will go back to full
duty and for the sake of Starfleet and what is to come, forgo the events of the past 4 months of
my life while on duty, and when I have the brief hour or two that I am not on duty, I can then
spend my time, focused on healing.”

Stev was shocked by her words. He turned his head to look at Quinna, “What?!”
Only looking at Sekal Quinna added, “What is that Vulcan Proverb, The needs of the many
outweigh the need of the few or the one. Of course, I will return to full active duty as of this
moment.”

Stev shot a look at Quinna and then turned back to the Saleke, “Unacceptable. For Dr. Solice to
be at her full ability mind and body must heal. Would you not agree Admiral?”

(reply Saleke)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Security Center- Holding Area - Vice-Admiral Saleke - 2041)

“Unacceptable. For Dr. Solice to be at her full ability mind and body must heal. Would you not
agree Admiral?"

Saleke's reply was interrupted before his mouth opened.

"I hate to interrupt this fun reunion, but can someone get me some Ukon no chikara, Tokyo night
owl. Please"

The Admiral stepped aside for Dr. Kyllee as he tapped his combadge. "Security remove the
security field on holding cell two for a medical emergency."

=^= Sir that's the oldest trick in the book!=^=

"I will not repeat my order, do it now!"

=^= Security field going down.=^=

The Vulcan signed off and stood with his arms crossed, watching closely as the force field was
deactivated and the medical officer rushed in to provide assistance.

(Reply: Any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - ACMO - Dr. Kyllee Stev -2042)

Suddenly the commotion of the two men in the back of the cell got everyone’s attention. Devers
had asked for something that sounded like medical attention, although he was unfamiliar with
whatever unicorn on Chickary, or Tokyo night owl was. Saleke stepped aside and ordered the
security field to be dropped.

Stev pulled out his medical tricorder and began to run it across Devers and then P’Rah. Clearly,
they had consumed a more than necessary quantity of alcohol to get them intoxicated. They
had… exceeded expectations. He had the cure for what ailed them, but they weren’t going to
like it.

He reached into his kit and removed an ampule of Benzodiazepine as well as a series of BCAAs
and hydrolyzing agents. One would increase the GABA activity in their blood and almost
immediately negate the effects of the alcohol on their brain. The BCAAs and hydrolyzing agent
would put in the needed electrolytes and create an opening in the bloodstream to accept water
at a faster rate. The effect would be a near immediate sobering. The downside would be that if
they didn’t drink at least a liter of water within half an hour they would have a terrible headache.
They should also, most likely, need to hit the head a great deal over the next few hours.
He tapped the hypospray against Devers' neck, and it gave out a satisfying hiss. He repeated
the action for P’Rah. With his accelerated metabolism it should all take effect much quicker.
“You both will need to drink, at least, a liter of water in the next half hour, and probably another
liter an hour for the next few hours,” he warned.

Then he turned his attention to Quinna. She had an increase in levels of cortisone,
catecholamines, and thyroid hormone. He frowned as he looked at the readings. “Quinna, I
have to give you something, at least for the thyroid issue.” He showed her the readings.

(reply Quinna)
He gave her a shot of levothyroxine to help bring her back into balance, then turned to the
admiral.

“Well Admiral, if you’re going to turn the security field back on you might as well do it now. I’m
not leaving.”

Suddenly Michael Weston was right there. He had had the same idea.

“Same goes for me Admiral Saleke,” Weston said, now standing on the other side of Quinna.

(reply Saleke)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -2045)

Stev entered with a med kit. Quinna shook her head. She watched as he treated her jailbird
buddies.

“You both will need to drink, at least, a liter of water in the next half hour, and probably another
liter an hour for the next few hours,” he warned.

“Funny how the guards would not give me a med kit to help them. Then Stev came back to her.
She scanned her and did not put up a resistance.

“Quinna, I have to give you something, at least for the thyroid issue.” He showed her the
readings.
“Well, that is new,” Quinna said.

“Well Admiral, if you’re going to turn the security field back on you might as well do it now. I’m
not leaving.”

Quinna had a stern look. Suddenly a familiar feeling was next to her.

“Same goes for me Admiral Saleke,” Weston said, now standing on the other side of Quinna.

“Ok Guy’s, this is ridiculous. As much as I admire the bravado, you don’t have to do this.”

(reply Saleke, Weston, Kyllee, P’Rah, Devers)

“Umm I think I am going to go sit down,” Quinna said as she started to not feel well. She found
her spot between P’Rah and Devers.

(reply Saleke, Weston, Kyllee, P’Rah, Devers)

(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice SO CPO P'Rah and
Hercules Devers -2046)

After the doctor had injected both“Umm I think I am going to go sit down,” Quinna said as she
moved to sit down between the two security officers.

P'Rah moved over to give her space to sit down.

Devers cleared his throat and took a pull of water before starting to sing, "personne ne sait le
problème que j'ai vu. Personne ne connaît mes peines."

Quinna closed her eyes and leaned her head to rest on P'Rah's shoulder.

Devers smiled, "The doc has the right idea," he said as he cracked his neck and leaned over to
rest his head on her shoulder.

P'Rah looked at the others in the room, "Always the bridesmaid, and never the bride," he said
closing his eyes and resting his head against the wall.

(Reply any IYW)
(Posted by Kris and Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Mars - Utopia Planatia - Brig - Vice-Admiral Saleke -2047)

Saleke stood back and observed as Dr. Kyllee ministered to the crewmen and Doctor Solice.
The group had been here for three and three quarters of an hour. He had come here on an
investigation and what he had found had been eye opening. As the three sat against the wall
and recovered the Bajoran turned to him.
“Well Admiral, if you’re going to turn the security field back on you might as well do it now. I’m
not leaving.”

He noted the Lieutenant striding into the cell where he took up station beside the Commander

“Same goes for me Admiral Saleke.”

His findings had been fascinating. He had put intense pressure on the group and though
depleted they were still standing. His eyes traveled over those who were suffering, the lesson
had been harsh and it was time to end it.

He looked back to the two men. "That will not be necessary gentlemen."

He tapped his communicator. "This is Vice-Admiral Saleke. Those in Cell number two are
released on my order. Transport those here to the medical wing for treatment and observation.
Once the medical team has released them they may return to their quarters."

=^= Order received Admiral. Notifying Medical. =^=

Saleke cupped his hands behind his back after signing off. "Please refrain from getting into
trouble for the remainder of your time here."

He watched as they faded in the rising hum of the transporter then turned and left. There was
much to do tomorrow.

(Reply: Any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Illuminar, ACEO’s quarters – ACEO Ensign Ssvresh – 2355)

It had been a long day.

Lieutenant Pex had tasked him with supervising the umbilical connection to the dock facilities –
the connection that would provide essential power (including life support) to the ‘sleeping’ ship
whilst its power core was shutdown.

Over the course of the day, Ssvresh had physically inspected the connection more than once –
the station engineers had provided assurances but had seemed content to step aside and let
the Selay officer make his own inspection. ~I don’t doubt their skill, but I can hardly be the first
engineer to take a personal interest in the care being given to his ship.~

He had also established display readouts both in Main Engineering and at the nearest access
point, providing real-time data on the umbilical connection. He’d also taken the opportunity to
replace a damaged power relay in one of the more isolated parts of the ship that had already
been de-powered.

The Selay Ensign had remained at his post after beta shift had replaced alpha shift and they’d
entered the final stages of shutting down the Illuminar. A reverent hush descended upon the
crew as things had come to a close and the main computer core had been shutdown.
Now, dismissed from the eerily quiet engine room, Ssvresh had stopped by his quarters to
retrieve his kitbag and head down to Mars for whatever mission awaited.

(Reply none)
(Posted by MCD)
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