USS Illuminar

Mission: An End and a Beginning
Day: 1
Stardate: 2446.03.16
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 5 - Sickbay - SO CPO P’Rah and Morale Officer Leeza Pel, Dr. Agnes
Vanderstein - 0430)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 6 NCO quarters- Security PO1 Hercules Devers - 0600)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 2 - Personal Quarters- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0630)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - SO CPO P’Rah and Morale Office Leeza Pel - 0631)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CO, Captain Sekal - 0648)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - MO Leeza Pel - 0650)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Bridge- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0651)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Bridge- MO Leeza Pel, SO CPO P’Rah - 0652)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Bridge- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0654)
(USS IIluminar- Deck 5 - Sickbay - LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0706)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- conference room -- 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice, SO CPO
P’Rah -- 0720)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0722)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice, SO
CPO P’Rah - 0724)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0725)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Rooms - SO CPO P’Rah - 0726)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Rooms - CSec - Lt.Commander T'Mur - 0727)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room, SO CPO P’Rah - 0728)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Rooms - CSec - Lt.Commander T'Mur - 0729)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0730)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0731)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Conference Room, 2/O and Cop CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0733)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0734)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0736)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0737)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- FO Commander Sienna Verin - 0739)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room-Cr. Agnes Vanderstein - 0740)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- 3XO/CMO Quinna Solice and MO Leeza Pel -
0745)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0747)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0748)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0749)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- COUNS Alaya Hammons - 0750)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0751)
(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0752)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- CO, Captain Sekal - 0753)
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- FO, Commander Sienna Verin - 0754)

(USS Illuminar - Pilot Ensign(sg) Vic ‘Raid’ Montero - 0800)
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
(USS Illuminar - Deck 5 - Sickbay - SO CPO P’Rah and Morale Officer Leeza Pel, Dr. Agnes
Vanderstein - 0430)

Sickbay was quiet at this time of the morning. The on-duty nurse approached the two, as Leeza
ran to the room where Gregory was in treatment. Talking quietly to the nurse, he got the update
on the Commander, which was still unclear. Thanking her, he followed Leeza into the room.

The Commander lay on the biobed, under a light blanket, all the world as if he was asleep, apart
from the sensors around his head, and the devices covering his arms and legs. Stimulating his
muscles, the Caitian knew. Hoping to preserve muscle while preventing other issues resulting
from long-term hospitalization.

Leeza turned to him and motioned up. Smiling, he lifted the little girl up to sit on the bed next to
the Commander. He watched as she took his hand. Stepping back he gave her some space to
talk to him in her own unique way.

Leeza held his hand and traced the lines of his palm, “Captain Eggery, Please wake up. I want
you to be my Captain Eggery again.” She looked at Dieter’s face. “Wake up NOW!” She
demanded but still, there was nothing until something startled her. Leeza looked to see Dieter’s
fingers moving and closing around her hand.

“Kitty, Kitty, LOOK!” Leeza was getting excited. “Eggery moved.”

P’Rah’s ears twitched as he turned to look at Leeza. Sure enough, the Commander’s hand was
holding Leeza’s.

As he was about to say something, a Nurse came running into the room. P’Rah noticed there
were large swings of lunges on the screens that had recently been barely twitching.

“Excuse me Leeza,” the Nurse said softly as she pulled out a medical tricorder and began a
scan. The nurse tried to remove Gregory’s fingers from Leeza’s hand, but they were firmly
holding onto the little girl.

“Eggery, Eggery, Wakey uppey.” Leeza pleaded. “Ouch Eggery, you hurted me.” Leeza was
happy but to her little hand, she felt that Dieter was squeezing too tight.

“What going on in here,” Agnes said as she entered the scene. Noting the distress, Agnes
rushed to help the nurse. “Let's turn off these contraptions on his arms.” Agness looked over at
the little girl. She places a soft but firm hand on Leeza’s free arm. She focused on their girl as
the nurse disconnected the arm devices. “Hi. I am Dr. Aggie. Who are you and who is your
friend, Sweetie?”

“I am Leeza and that is Kitty,” Leeza said.

Agnes looked over at P’Rah, “Hi. Nice to meet you. And you too, Kitty. Why don’t you come
over and help me, please.”

P’Rah walked over to the Doctor. “CPO P’Rah Ma’am, what do you need me to do?” he asked.
“Right” Agnes smiled, “So, Mr. P’Rah. I want you to hold Ms. Leeza’s arm, right next to Mr.
Greggory’s hand.” Agnes watched the direction being carried out, “good. Now, Ms. Leeza, I
want you to picture holding Mr. P’Rah’s hand.”

As this was happening, Agnes put a hand under Dieter’s wrist and the other hand under P’Rah’s
wrist. She felt around for a pressure point on Dieter. “Ok, now on the count of three I was you
to blow your thought into Mr. Greggory’s hand. OK?” Agnes asked as Leeza nodded yes. “OK,
One……Two……Two and a half…..” Leeza went to blow. “Oh no not yet. Let's see, Two and
three quarterssssss…..THREE!”

Leeza blew, then Anges initiated a big handshake where Leeza’s hand slipped right into P’Rah’s
palm. “Now Mr. P’Rah, Open your hand.”

Leeza was amazed. “How do you do that?” Leeza looked at P’Rah, “Did you see that, Kitty?
How did she do that?”

P’Rah shrugged, “Pretty cool. I bet Dr. Agnes went to school for many years to learn how to do
that. Not something a Caitian like myself knows how to do.”

“You know, I think Mr. Greggory has had a full morning. That probably meant a lot to hold your
hand, Ms. Leeza. I think he may be to rest. But I want you to come back soon. Mr. Greggory
could use you to help wake him.” Agnes suggested.


(USS Illuminar - Deck 5 - Holodeck 1 - SO CPO P’Rah and Morale Officer Leeza Pel - 05:15)

P’Rah took his charge to the holodeck. It was time for fun and games for Leeza, but as P’Rah
saw it, it was training and self-defense for her. While he would work to always be there, he
wanted to make sure she had some training/not training. Just in case.

“What are we doing, Kitty?” Leeza was curious as to what he was going to plan.

“Its time for us to play some games, Miss Leeza,” he replied. “We don’t have the large flight
deck that the Rhyne had, but we can do some things here for fun,” he said. “This is our world to
create.”

“Do you want to just run around chasing me?” He said. “Play hide and seek, which you are
good at, or maybe learn to use a bow and arrow? Fight bad guys? As long as you don’t want to
swim,” he chuckled, “Cats don’t like to swim,” P’Rah made a shiver.

“And I need to learn but ok then no swimming. Umm P’Rah? What’s a swing?” Leeza asked.

“We’ll ask Mr. Weston to teach you how to swim.” P’Rah smiled and snapped his fingers. The
scene changed into a playground of playgrounds. Taking her hand, he led her over to a seat
held to a top post with two ropes. “You sit here, Miss Leeza,” he said, lifting her onto the swing
seat. Buckling her in, “And now I push you. As you start to go up, you pump with your legs to
get to fly high.”

Leeza got into a rhythm and started laughing. The air lowing past her added to the experience.
“This is AMAZING!” Leeza screamed, “Higher, HIGHER!”
P’Rah was glad to see her laughing. She was a very special child and needed this release too.
He would talk to Mr. Weston later about making sure she got time every day here, and that he
hoped the man could teach her how to swim.

“You’re getting good Miss Leeza,” he said as she went back and forth.

“I want to stay here forever,” Leeza said as she swung on.

P’Rah chuckled, “I will check with Mr. Weston and make sure you have time here every day.
And there are many other things to try Miss. Leeza.”
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 6 NCO quarters- Security PO1 Hercules Devers - 0600)

It had been a long time on the Rhyne, hard to believe that they were gone for a year, when it
was only days for those on the Illuminar. Thinks didn’t feel right still, but fortunately they were
orbiting to Vulcan. This would give him an opportunity to revisit the Vulcan Institute of Defensive
Arts, pay his respect to the head, Jekkos. Perhaps he could start to learn the very basics of
Ponn-iffla. Teluk had really demonstrated how well that technique worked.

He snuck out of the quarters before Collier woke up.

(Xen’Tal – Shuttle port -- Security PO1 Hercules Devers – 1400)

Devers exited the shuttle port that serviced Xen’Tai. Nothing much had changed in the 6
months since he last visited here. Still hot as ever. Perhaps another way to train.

He walked the short distance to the inn. Walking through the door, the old man at the desk
stood up, “Welcome back Hercules Devers,” he said.

Devers bowed his head in respect, “And to you Master Jekos,” he replied. “I am glad you had
an opening.”

“There is always space for a true student,” he replied. “Dinner will be served in an hour.”

Devers nodded, “Thank you, I look forward to that.”

Hours later, Devers, Jekkos and two Vulcans, who he leared were Hyllitt and Lonas, sat outside
sipping hot spice tea and talking softly. Devers had finished his tale of the last year, the mirror
universe and all. Hyllitt asked him some questions, and the conversation continued. Eventually
it was only Jekkos and Devers. The night sky was clear and the two sat in silence. Jekkos
poured Devers more tea, “You are troubled?” he said.

“I am. I need to find my center again, and hoped that I might find that center here. My ship will
be in orbit for at least a week, so I hoped I could petition you to teach me Ponn-iffla.”

Jekkos nodded, “It is a long path, let us start with learning how to see without seeing. Report to
the Academy at dawn.”

Devers nodded, “My thanks, Master. I will be there.”
Stardate: 2446.03.18
(Xen'Tal - Vulcan Institute of Defensive Arts - Security PO1 Hercules Devers - 0600)

Devers dressed deliberately in simple clothing. Moving quietly out of the inn, he made his way
to the Institute.
Arriving at the Institute a few minutes later, he saw a lone figure in a white hooded robe. Devers
approached him cautiously. The figure turned, he recognized him from his first visit here, but
didn’t know his name. Wordlessly, he handed Devers a robe like he was wearing.

As Devers slipped it on, the Vulcan took off at a jog. Devers followed.

They ran for what seemed like hours. The Vulcan kept a good pace, and after a while, the sun
was well up in the sky. They had reached the foothills of the mountains around Xen’Tal. The
Vulcan stopped finally at a flat rock. He climbs up to the Vulcan, who was sitting in what Devers
would call the half-lotus position. He sunk into the same position as next to the Vulcan. He
closed his eyes, resting his hands on his knees, eyes closed. He settled his breathing and
slowly let his mind wander.

His senses became aware of the smallest noise, the gentle breeze of wind, the smell of the
desert. Time lost meaning as he tried to characterize each one.

Soon he felt his companion stand, so Devers opened his eyes and stood. Wordlessly, the
Vulcan took off again, running back toward Xen’Tal. Shaking his muscles awake, he started
after him.

Arriving at the Institue mid-afternoon, his guide took him to an octagonal room. On each wall
was written something in Vulcan, with illustrations of movements. They made no sense to
Devers, but he started with the first panel and began to try to follow the steps. It was much
harder than it looked. Hours passed before he heard the bell ring. Pausing, he looked around
the empty room before leaving and heading back to the inn, to get refreshed and prepared for
dinner.

Stardate:2446.03.21

(Xen'Tal - Vulcan Institute of Defensive Arts - Security PO1 Hercules Devers - 0600)

The next three days repeated like the first. Up before dawn. A multi hour run followed by hours
of medication and finally a return to the Inn for dinner and sleep. He never knew he could feel
so tired and sore from so little physical activity. Arriving at the Institute, Devers noticed his guide
was not here. Instead Jekkos was waiting there patiently for him. He nodded to Herc, and
headed toward the institute. Devers followed him into the training ground. It was quiet as none
of the students had started their mornings.

Jekkos folded to sit on the ground in the center of the ground, motioning for Devers to sit as
well. “Hercules, you came here to learn the art of Ponn-iffla. It has been four days and you
have not complained once. Now I need to know your mind. With you permission,” he said.

Devers nodded, and Jekkos reached up with his right hand spreading his fingers as he touched
Devers face. “My mind to your mind,” he began to intone. “My thoughts to your thoughts,” he
continued as he looked deep into Devers eyes.
Time stood still as the ancient Master probed Devers thoughts. Several minutes later, although
it seemed to Devers like hours, Jekkos broke contact. He nodded “Thank you Mr. Devers,” he
said.

“The path to mastery of Ponn-iffla is long and arduous. It is not for the weak or faint of heart.
Before we allow someone to embark on the path, we seek to know your mind. You are a
talented martial artist, having mastered three very different techniques. I respect that, it shows
dedication and devotion to study and hard work. However, your mind is also unfocused. You
have many things to resolve within yourself before I could, in good conscious, let you embark
on the path. Your time away from your crew, your shipmates in that dark place has clouded
your mind, made you question things. Only time and meditation will allow you the clarity you
need to follow the path. You are welcome at the institute however long you wish, Hercules
Devers, and there will always be a room at the inn for you. I recognize your noble spirit. One
day, perhaps, you will be ready.”

Devers looked at the Vulcan. “Thank you Master Jekkos,” he said, “I understand.”

Jekkos stood up, “Come Mr. Devers, and break your fast with me this morning. Then we will
begin the daily practice.”

Devers stood, “Thank you, I would be honored.”

(Reply None)
(Posted by Tim)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 2 - Personal Quarters- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0630)

Michael opened his eyes and stared at the wall for a minute. He was still having a little trouble
wrapping his brain around the idea that he was going to be a parent. It wasn't as though he'd
been a pseudo parent for Leeza over the past year. But still, now he was responsible for a life
that he had a hand in creating.

His mind circled back round to Leeza, who had been trying to settle into her life with her new
family. It had been a few days since the dance and his promise to meet with the Hammons, but
what had to be discussed was for more than just them.

He sat up and turned to dangle his legs off the side of the bed, deep in contemplation. He really
hadn't even filled Quinna in with all of the details. Just debriefing from the Rhyne had taken a
great deal more time than he had expected. Questions had to be answered, and none of them
included Leeza, yet. But it was time that filled them in.

He padded across the room to his computer station and opened a comm channel. "Weston to
P'Rah, it's time. We need to tell them about Leeza."

(reply P'Rah)

That done he checked on Sekal, "Computer, where is Captain Sekal?"

[Captain Sekal is on the bridge.]
~Well, no time like the present.~ Weston got up and showered. he put on his uniform and
attached his comm badge to it. Looking in the mirror he made sure he looked presentable.
Then with a deep breath and said to himself, "Good luck big guy."

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1 - Bridge- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0645)

Weston stepped off the turbo lift and looked around the bridge. He noted that Leeza was
already sitting in the FO's seat. He wondered how Verin would feel about that and smiled an
evil smile. Sekal was sitting beside her, effectively ignoring her, if not intentionally doing so. He
walked over to Sekal and stood between hm and Leeza.

"Morning squirt," he said to Leeza with a smile.

(reply Leeza)

Then he turned to Sekal, "Captain. First day with the Moral Officer?"

(reply Sekal)

"I think it's time that we had a meeting Captain," he said, moving his towards Leeza. "But we
need a few more people to be in on this. Quinna should be there, as well as the Hammons.
Pretty sure we should include T'Mur and the FO."

(reply Sekal)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - SO CPO P’Rah and Morale Office Leeza Pel - 0631)

P’Rah and Leeza stepped out of the turbolift onto the bridge. The alpha shift was officially on
duty, so the security officer nodded to the officers on duty. He noted that there was a team
working on the engineering panel from this morning.

He watched as Leeza headed over to the first officer's seat, her Morale Officer's office, as it
were. He took his customary position near Leeza, but discreetly in the background.

His com badge chirped =^= Weston to P'Rah, it's time. We need to tell them about Leeza =^=

P’Rah knew this day would come, but had hoped that Commander Gregory would be awake.
“As you wish, Sir. We are on the bridge.”

(reply Weston, IYW)

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - SO CPO P’Rah, Morale Officer Leeza Pel - 0646)

P’Rah noted as Mr. Weston came onto the bridge and made his way to the command chairs.

"Morning squirt," he said to Leeza with a smile.

“Mikey!” Leeza said Excitedly. “You are late for Duty!”
(Rely Weston)

Then he turned to Sekal, "Captain. First day with the Moral Officer?"

(reply Sekal)

"I think it's time that we had a meeting Captain. But we need a few more people to be in on this.
Quinna should be there, as well as the Hammons. Pretty sure we should include T'Mur and the
FO."

“There is no need to talk about me,” Leeza said even if Michael did not way it directly. “Kitty,
What is Mikey talking about?”

(reply Sekal, Weston)

“Kitty said you would teach me how to swim. Let's go swimming instead. No need to meet
about me.” Pels defensive measures are starting even though Pel was not revealing
him/herself.

(Reply Sekal, Weston)
(Posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CO, Captain Sekal - 0648)

The concept of having a morale officer had been a logical one, a continuation of the role that the
toddler had been dubbed with while on the Rhyne. It was also logical that the little girl would
benefit from this as she was uprooted from the ship that had been her home for three years and
cast into the Illuminar where those she had bonded with were but a few among over one
hundred others. He had believed all angles to be accounted for however Leeza Pel had
surprises in store for him. The first being the early hour of her entry upon the bridge and the
second was the position she chose.

Sekal turned to look as P'rah set her upon her feet and she climbed into the XO's seat where
her blanket, doll and padd had been placed. He cocked an eyebrow as she turned to him with a
smile then he gave a slight vocalization as she picked up the padd and began scrolling through
it at which point he turned away as he added. "Fascinating."

It wasn't long before Lieutenant Weston arrived and was greeted by the girl to which he replied,
he then addressed the CO.

"Captain. First day with the Moral Officer?"

"Affirmative Mister Weston, it has been ... interesting."

"I think it's time that we had a meeting Captain. But we need a few more people to be in on this.
Quinna should be there, as well as the Hammons. Pretty sure we should include T'Mur and the
FO."

While he did not specify the subject of the meeting his morale officer immediately took
umbrance."
“There is no need to talk about me, Kitty, What is Mikey talking about?”

Sekal turned his attention to her. "For what reason do you presume that you are the subject of
Mister Weston's concern?"

“Kitty said you would teach me how to swim. Let's go swimming instead. No need to meet
about me.”

He cocked his head curiously at her reaction. "Lieutenant Weston requires a meeting of
individuals to address a concern which will not detrimentally effect you. I suggest remaining on
the bridge and watching over the ship for me while we do so."

To Weston he said. "Notify those involved to meet in the conference room at 0730."

(Reply: Weston)
(Posted by Charles G)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - MO Leeza Pel - 0650)

"Lieutenant Weston requires a meeting of individuals to address a concern that will not
detrimentally affect you. I suggest remaining on the bridge and watching over the ship for me
while we do so."

To Weston he said. "Notify those involved to meet in the conference room at 0730."

(Reply: Weston)

Leeza noted that Sekal did not give Leeza time to reply, or shall we say Pel noticed. It was
easier to stay dormant on the Rhyne, It was time for Pel to influence, “Captain Eekal, I know
Mikey. I no little girl anymore. Let's look at this oggly (her attempt at the word logically). First,
it is Mikey asking for a meeting. Second, he asked for the Hammons to be there, as well as your
senior officers, except my Captain Eggery. Finally, you don't know what to do with me."

She looked at the Captain, her eyes displaying years more knowledge than a girl of 3 should
have, “or am I mistaken?”

(reply Sekal)

Leeza turned her head to look at Michael, "Mikey, I'm right. This is about me."

(Reply Weston)
(Posted by Kris B.)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Bridge- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0651)

Mikey!” Leeza cried. “You are late for Duty!”
She stood up in the FO’s seat and put her hands on her hips in an attempt to chastise him. She
only succeeded in looking adorable.

“Sorry kiddo,” Michael replied, “but I’m still adjusting to my new schedule. Or having a schedule
at all. I see you managed to procure a new PADD. May I see it?”

When she handed him the PADD he looked at it carefully and typed in a couple of commands
that would keep her out of any sensitive information. He had learned what he could keep her
out of to avoid suspicion on the Rhyne. Things that would keep her from being on Luma’s
time-out list. Then he handed the PADD back to her. “Very nice. Just remember, like on the
Rhyne, you have to be careful with that thing.”

He had to smile when Sekal said the Leeza’s first interactions had been “interesting”. He was
certain the Vulcan was about to get a lot of interesting in the next few days.

When he made his request for a meeting he had intentionally been vague about the subject.
Leeza was not fond of being spoken about, or that might be Pel. But one of them seemed to
pick up on the subtext.

“There is no need to talk about me,” Leeza said. “Kitty, What is Mikey talking about?”

Sekal turned to her and replied, "For what reason do you presume that you are the subject of
Mister Weston's concern?"

“You must think you’re all I talk about,” Michael’s voice dripped with sarcasm.

Leeza changed the subject, “Kitty said you would teach me how to swim. Let's go swimming
instead. No need to meet about me.”

"Lieutenant Weston requires a meeting of individuals to address a concern which will not
detrimentally effect you. I suggest remaining on the bridge and watching over the ship for me
while we do so."

To Weston he said. "Notify those involved to meet in the conference room at 0730."

Michael nodded to Sekal. He knew that the CO’s explanation would not be enough to satisfy
Leeza. Then he recognized the d voice that came out of the little girl. It was still Leeza’s but it
had an air of confidence and experience… and a little exasperation.

“Captain Eekal, I know Mikey. I no little girl anymore. Let's look at this oggly. First, it is Mikey
asking for a meeting. Second, he asked for the Hammons to be there, as well as your senior
officers, except my Captain Eggery. Finally, you don't know what to do with me, or am I
mistaken?”

Michael had shard time holding in his laugh. This three-year-old was challenging the logic of
one of the most logical Vulcans he’d ever met. This was what he was afraid was going to
happen, and he hadn’t been able to prepare anyone for it. He turned and dropped to a knee,
looking into Leeza’s eyes.
“You know how I’ve had all those meetings to tell what happened on the Rhyne. This is just one
more. And if I don’t have it I’ll be in trouble. I might be in trouble already. You don’t want me to
get in trouble do you?”

He hoped that he was able to get past Pel and reach Leeza

“Here’s the deal,” he said sitting on the arm of her chair, “You want to learn to swim, then after
this meeting I’ll take you swimming. I even know someone who is a great swimmer and might
join us. How does that sound?”

(reply Leeza)

Michael walked over to a security station and sat down in front of the monitor. He figured it
would be easier to send a text than to try and speak out the invitation.

[To Steve and Alaya Hammons, I need your presence for a meeting regarding Leeza at 0730, in
the Main Conference Room.]

Then he sent a second message to the command staff. [To Commander Solice, Lt. Commander
T’Mur and Commander Verin, there will be a meeting in the Main Conference Room at 0730.
The subject is Miss Pel.]

(reply Solice, Verin, T’Mur, Steve and Alaya Hammons)

When he was done he went over to P’Rah, “It’s probably a good idea if you were there too,” he
whispered, “but who else can leave her with?”

(reply P’Rah, reply Sekal, Solice, Verin, T’Mur, Steve and Alaya Hammons)
(Posted By Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Bridge- MO Leeza Pel, SO CPO P’Rah - 0652)

Leeza looked at Michael. He never avoided answering her questions to now. He changed the
subject. Leeza did not like what was happening. things were changing and now she felt sad.
She grabbed her blanket and her doll and slid off the chair leaving the PADD behind. "Sure."
That was all she said to Michael as she walked around to P'Rah. "Kitty, I want to go now. I
know my place, now." and she knew it was not there.

P’Rah took the little, girl's hand. He looked over at Michael,

When he was done he went over to P’Rah, “It’s probably a good idea if you were there too,” he
whispered, “but who else can leave her with?”

“You do not have to worry about Miss Leeza, Sir,” P’Rah said with a low disappointing tone, “I
have her all taken care of.”

P’Rah reach down and picked up the child and took her off the bridge.

(USS Illuminar -- Corridors -- MO Leeza Pel, SO CPO P’Rah - 0655)
Leeza and P’Rah started to walk down the corridor. “Kitty, where will we go?” Leeza sounded
worried. She thought she was in more trouble.

P’Rah sighed. Poor Miss Leeza seemed to not understand that life was different on the
Illuminar, but he also knew that Mr. Weston did not seem to help her by evading her question.
She knew that Leeza felt heartbroken by his actions. “Let's go back to sickbay. Maybe you can
work on getting Mr. Gregory to wake again.” P’Rah said.

That idea seemed to put a small smile on her face. “You stay with me, Kitty,” Leeza asked.
Right now P’Rah was the only one she felt safe with.

(USS Illuminar -- Deck 5 -- Sickbay MO Leeza Pel, SO CPO P’Rah, Dr. Agnes Vanderstein -
0705)

As they entered sickbay, P’Rah noticed that Agnes was about to leave. He had an idea cross
his mind. “Dr. Aggie.” He caught her attention.

“Ahh, Mr. P’Rah, I did not expect you two to be back so soon.” Agnes turned to see the little girl
run past her and straight to Gregory’s biobed. She turned back and yawned as she was getting
off of an extended shift. “What can I do for you?”

“I am sorry, but would you be willing to do a huge favor for me.” He took her arm and guided her
back to where Gregory and Leeza were at. Leeza managed to crawl up on the biobed. She
had laid down cuddling.

“Does someone want to tell me what is going on?” Agnes asked suggestingly.

“Kitty?” Leeza looked at P’Rah.

“Miss Leeza, I think I should go to the meeting. Someone has to look out for your best interest,
don’t you think?” P’Rah looked at Leeza and whispered into her ear. “What do you think of Dr.
Agnes?”

“Awesome,” Leeza whispered back.

“Dr. Agnes, can I ask for a huge favor?” P’Rah said with a grin that made him look like he was
the cat that ate the canary.

Agnes bit her lower lip. “What?” she said skeptically.

“Would you be willing to sit with Miss Leeza here while I attend this meeting?” P’Rah asked.

Agnes thought about it. “Sure, but you owe me one.” Agnes was one to try and have people
owe her just in case.

“Thank you,” P’Rah said as he looked at Leeza in a morning nap mode. He then left them to
head back to the bridge.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Bridge- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0654)

"Sure,” Leeza said. Michael saw the hurt look she gave him. She needed him to admit that they
were talking about her and kind talked around the question without answering it directly.

"Kitty, I want to go now,” she said coldly. ”I know my place, now."

P’Rah took Leeza’s hand and walked her off the bridge, letting Weston know that he had Leeza
taken care of for the meeting. Then they left with the little girl not even saying goodbye.

This was where the rubber met the road, as the saying went, where doing what he needed to do
meant causing some friction between them. He hoped she wouldn’t be angry with him long.
Would it be the three year-old mad, or an adult mad.

(reply none)
(Posted By Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(Earth - Somewhere - LCDR Dieter Gregory)

Gregory opened his eyes, trying to figure out where he was. “Mr. Gregory,” a voice said, “Care
to explain what this is?” He heard a thud as a device fell to the table.

Startled to the present, he looked at the desk and grinned. It was a device he had wired into the
school’s clocks, which started advancing the clocks by a second every hour. It took a few
weeks for it to be noticed by the administration, hence this meeting here.

“I am sure you know headmaster,” he replied. “I have to hide things better next time.”

“Mr. Gregory, you are too clever for your own good. While you excel at the sciences, you need
to pay more attention to your to your other courses,” the man said.

“Why do I need to know how many wives Henry the eight had, or read some story about two
stupid teenagers who can’t get out of their own way and kill themselves?” he replied, “They are
not real, not solid.”

Gregory heard the door open “Out Mr. Gregory, and I will have my eye on you.” As he walked
out into the old hallway, felt himself get lightheaded

(Space - Somewhere - LCDR Dieter Gregory)

Gregory looked around. There was a sound in his ear, “Hurry up Cadet,” came the voice.
Looking down, he saw the panel was off and he was looking at a mess. Being in an EVA suit
didn’t help. Kneeling down, he pulled out a tricorder and began scanning. Grabbing a
interphasic coil spanner, he inserted into the hole, decoupling the first connection. Identifying
the connection, he removed the second connection. From his pouch, he pulled a new coil out
and connected it. Checking the tricorder again, he noticed that with the coil repaired, the
system was leaking energy. Thinking through the diagram of this area, he grabbed his flux
regulator and started to try to control the energy leak.
“It is going critical, Cadet,” the voice said in his ear. “Ten seconds...”

Tricky, very tricky, he relized where the real issue was. Grabbing the hyperspanner, he started
to remove the next panel. The real culprit was the misalignment on the reecon converter.

“Five second…”

“Four …”

Gregory struggled with the last connection. It was going to be close.

“Three …”

The panel floated away from him, revealing the reecon converter, flashing red lights. Gregory
connected his tricorder and set the recalibration process going.

“Two …”

Gregory felt himself floating out into space as the voice called “One …”

(Deep Space 9 - Somewhere - LCDR Dieter Gregory)

Stepping off the transport, Dieter breathed in the space station’s air. Different from the
transport, it had a nuance about it. As he walked through the airlock, he tripped and bumped
into a tall bald Bajoran. Dieter muttered an apology. He gasped when the fellow turned around
to look at him. The Bajoran nodded and made a motion with his hand.

A Bajorian Monk approached Dieter, “You journey begins here. Come with me” the Monk took
Dieter’s arm and guided him in a direction away from Starfleet Personel. “The Protector needs
to be ready. The Exporer needs to be ready. The next piece is about to be revealed.”

Gregory looked around wildly as the scene changed, no longer were they in the confines of the
space station, but were in stone corridor. The floor well worn with years of traffic. He had heard
the protector before, when he and Quinna were on their little jaunt to DS9 for more information.
The explorer?

“Where are we going?” he asked

“We are going no where, as we are going everywhere.”

Gregory shook his head. Even though he had several encounters with the wormhole aliens
known as the Prophets, and had tried to study the concept from a theoretical physics perspect
but always got tangled up in knots. “Very well. Why me, why now?”

“The Sisko has a message. The Puzzle is not solved. The Sisko’s Siskos hold a piece of the
puzzle. The piece must be given to the life giver. The map will grow. The history will become
present.”

Gregory looked puzzled, he heard the capital ‘P’ in puzzle, something bigger than just whatever
little thing he and Quinna were looking into? ‘It is happening again’ came to mind.
“Show me. Show me more,” he said spreading his hands wide.


(USS IIluminar- Deck 5 - Sickbay - LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0706)

Gregory exhaled sharply, hearing voices. He felt a weight laying on him, pressing him down.
Slowly moving his hand he felt around a small figure laying on top of him. Slowly opening his
eyes, he realized he was in a sick bay. It didn’t look like the Rhyne’s sickbay. It smelt too
modern for that. Thinking back to the last thing he remembered, it was going to look at the
message Fred had uncovered in the Rhyne’s computer system. Something had overloaded,
there was an electrical discharge and then blackness.

He had to get back to work, find out what happened. He started to try to get up, slowly.
Gingerly. His whole body hurt, as if there had been hundreds of little pin’s stuck all over. And
well, the weight holding him down. “A little help, please,” he croaked, his throat dry.

Dr. Agnes Vanderstein noticed the movement coming from Dieter’s direction. She rushed over
to him as she noticed his legs trying to move. “Whoa there,” Agnes started. When she made it
to him, she put her hands on him in an effort to get hm more stable. “Were are you going?”

“I am trying to get up, but it seems that I have a bit of a predicament,” he said. Turning to focus
in the voice. “Who… Who are you?” he asked the woman approaching, “I wouldn’t forget a face
like yours,” he said. “Now please help me get up and dressed, I need to get to the bridge.”

“On no,no, no, no. you would look funny going to the Bridge with no pants.” Agnes per her
hands on Dieters arm, urging him to lay back down. “I am Dr. Vanderstein.” She said
introducing herself. “And I think that the bridge is covered.” Agnes then put a hand on the
sleeping girl to keep her from falling.

“The crew is used to my antics, Doctor … Vanderstein. Where did you come from? Where am
I?”

“Dr. Solice said you would be stubborn when you wake.” Agnes commented. “So you are on
the Illuminar. Congratulations. You have been rescued.” Agnes smiled.

“Solice? Quinna,” he said. “The Illuinar. What is the date?” he demanded suddenly.

“Demanding, aren’t we? It is 2446.03.17,” Agnes replied, “Don’t be short with me. You may not
like what I can do. Now if you promise to be a good patient, I will contact Dr. Kyllee for you.”
Agnes said, “And yes, if I have to, I will lay on you to keep you down. Just think, I already have
your pants.”

“Never mind that now, I need to see where Leeza is, how she is doing. And Weston. I hope he
hasn’t mucked things up too bad. Rescued you say, well that is a feather in his cap. Good for
him. What about P’Rah, my security officer.”

“Would you just take a breath.” Aggie said, “Like I said, I will lay on you.”

“Challenge accepted,” Gregory said, grimacing in pain. “The lights are a bit bright, don’t you
think?” he asked. “Where is Weston? Where is Leeza?” he said suddenly as he tried to get up
again, “I need to check on Leeza.”
“Whoa, Whoa, Slow down there, Cowboy. ” Agnes said as she put her hands on Dieter’s chest.
“You must really want me in bed with you.”

Gregory took the hand, “I’ve been out, it sounds like, for the better part of 6 months or so. Or
less, depending on who’s time you believe. I have some catching up to do,” he said softly. “In
more ways than one.”

“As for that Leeza girl, Just look to your right. Isn’t that sleeping ball of energy, your Little
Leeza?” Agness smiled. “While we wait for Dr. Kylle, You are going to lay there and I am going
to stay with you.” Anges told and not suggested. Agnes stepped away to inform Stev that his
patient is awake.

Gregory slowly moved to a sitting position, and there she was, Leeza, cuddled up in a chair,
wearing her Morale officer’s uniform. He didn’t see her doll, but she did have her blanket with
her. He smiled at her, before turning to listen to the doctor again.

“So I am Dr. Vanderstein, but most people call me Aggie.” Agnes said as she leaned against
the bed. “And you can wine and dine me when you better.”

“I will hold you to that Agnes,” Gregory said with a smile. “I am better. Just a little stiff at the
moment. Once I sit up, it’ll be better still.”

The little ball started to stir. “What is..” She started to say. After she rubbed her eyes she
looked around. “Captain EGGERY!” She started to squeeze his neck and gave, “You slept too
long.”

“I am sorry little one,” he said, “But I am awake now.“

“Can we go home now?” Leeza asked.

“Wherever you are Leeza, wherever I am, where P’rah and Weston are, that is home,” he
paused, “By the way, have you been keeping me company?”

“Honey, I think Mr. Greggory here, needs to stay and rest. You can stay with him.”

“Doctor, I’ve been asleep for a long time, I need to get to work,” he replied. “No rest for the
wicked.”

Agnes stepped away as Greggory insisting on getting up. She even had Leeza stand next to
her. “You are stubborn. Fine, go ahead and get up. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.” She held up
her hands as if she was not stopping him, but she was ready too catch him when he fell.
Afterall, she had a point to make.

Gregory chuckled and swung his legs over the side of the biobed. Gently placing his feet on the
floor, he stood up. Smiling in victory at Agnes he gloated, “See Doctor,” he said as he took a
step towards the door, “My uniform if …” his words were cut off as he tumbled forward as his leg
gave way. Landing with a thud, he groaned as he tried to push himself up.

Agnes could not help herself but to laugh. Her only disappointment was the fact that is gown
still covered all the right places. In the long term it was good since Leeza was standing there
with her. “I am not going to say ‘I told you’…” Agnes started but then said, “Oh yes I am. I am
going to say it. I TOLD YOU SO!” She moved over to Dieter where she started to life him up.
She was strong for her species and stature, but in her line of work she needed to be. Large
egos needed strong women to pick them up when falling.

Gregory groaned, “You did indeed,” he said groaning as she helped him up. “Not the bed,” he
said as he nodded to the chair. “Please,” he said.

Agnes smiled, “That is the least I can do. After all you just had an accident with your ego.”
Agnes was gentle with Dieter. Afterall, she was hoping to bump into him again in the future.

“You should listen to Dr. Aggie. She is really smart.” Leeza said.

As Gregory lowered himself into the chair, he sighed. “A high complement indeed, Dr. Aggie,”
he turned to Leeza, “I will try, but I am stubborn too, you know.”

“Whao. I can only answer one question at a time. I may be good, well better than good, but I
am not that good Lets see… Not sure how long you have been out, but you have been out
longer than I have been on this ship. Michael Weston? Who is that? There is a meeting going
on with Mr. P’Rah and I sm sure with her parents. I am sure others will be there too.”

“Captain Eggery, They are talking about me and I am not allowed to be there.” Leeza started
sobbing.

“Parents?” he roared. “Parents. Meeting? What?” he said as he struggled to stand. “Doctor, I
need your help, I need to be at that meeting. Please? A little girl is in trouble,” he started to
head towards the door.

“You know I could lose my job. And then what am I going to do?” She looked into Dieter’s eyes.
“Oh Hell, let me see of I can find you some pants.”

“No time,” he said as he continued lumbering towards the door.

Taking a deep breath Agnes relented to the stubborn SOB. “Fine” She wrapped one of Dieters
arms around her neck and held him. Her other hand reached behind him and held his patient
gown closed to keep him from getting a draft.

Leeza stepped in front of Gregory, skipping out of sick back, “My eggery is back,” she said with
the glee of a child.

(Reply None)
(Posted by Tim B. and Kris B.)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- conference room -- 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice, SO CPO
P’Rah -- 0720)

Instead of making her way to sickbay, Quinna went to the conference room. Luckily she was the
only one there. Her milk-filled coffee cup was less appealing to her. She put her head on the
table and closed her eyes. She missed her relationship with the hot caffeinated beverages
doctored with sweet creamy goodness. There is something to be said about that first drink. A
slow hot sip. It glides down the throat instantly awakening the sensations. Milk did not give her
the same desired effect, however, she knew it was better for the little Jellybean inside her.

The door slid open and Quinna sat up. P’Rah stepped in. “Good Morning, P’Rah.

“Good Morning, Commander. Are you ok?” P’Rah asked.

“Just did not sleep well last night,” Quinna answered.

P’Rah nodded and found a seat on the far side of the conference table than Quinna.

(Reply All to Meeting)

(Posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0722)

Weston stepped into the conference room hoping he was the first to arrive. When he saw
Quinna he smiled and moved towards her. He nodded to P’Rah with a questioning look.

“Gregory?” he asked.

(reply P’Rah)

He sat down beside Quinna. Things had been awkward between them since their visit to
sickbay. They hadn’t really talked about her being pregnant. But there was still time, since it is a
recent development. Being is a permanent relationship was new territory for the SFI operative.

“How are you feeling?” he asked.

(Reply Quinna)
(Posted By Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice, SO
CPO P’Rah - 0724)

“Gregory?” he asked.

“Yes. It calms her and Dr. Aggie is watching her.” P’Rah supplied.

“She is in good hands,” Quinna added as she groaned. She smiled as Michael sat next to her.

“How are you feeling?” he asked.

Quinna picked up her coffee cup and drank the while cold liquid within. She was glad that no
one could see the inside. “I am so tired.” looking at P’Rah, he looked occupied. She leaned in
closer to Michael and whispered in his ear, “I would kill for some coffee right now.”

(Reply Weston)
“So what is this all about? Everything thing good with your girlfriend?” Quinna thought it was
sweet how the girl was attached to Michael and did not let anyone stand in her way of him. “You
know you do have a way with some women. Don’t tell me you already have her out to kill you.”
Quinna joked.

(Reply Weston)

Quinna turned her head when the door opened and others arrived.

(Reply any)
(Posted By Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0725)

“I am so tired.” Quinna said. Then she leaned closer and whispered, “I would kill for some
coffee right now.”

Michael leaned over to her, “I’ve killed for less.”

“So what is this all about?“. Quinna asked. “Everything thing good with your girlfriend? You
know you do have a way with some women. Don’t tell me you already have her out to kill you.”

Michael smiled wryly, “Well you do know what happened with my last girlfriend. She almost
succeeded.” He turned to P’Rah, “What do you think P’Rah?”

(reply P’Rah)

Then he got serious, “I really think I may have hurt her feelings earlier. She knows that we’re
meeting about her. But how do you tell a three year old that. I just didn’t know what to say and I
didn’t want to lie.” His face scrunched up, “This honesty thing is not as easy as you make it
seem.”

The door opened and T’Mur came in. She looked at Weston and nodded. Then she looked at
Quinna.

“Doctor, Lieutenant,” she said, “I am gratified to see you both well.” She looked at P’Rah and
said, “I hope our discussion will lead to returning my security staff to me.”

(Reply Quinna, P’Rah)
(Posted By Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Rooms - SO CPO P’Rah - 0726)

P’Rah was lost in his thoughts. Leaving Miss. Leeza alone with the doctor, well, she seemed
good enough. He did wonder what he may have agreed to, but for Miss Leeza, he would do just
about anything to protect her. His mind drifted back to the frightful events when he found her
wandering alone in the USS Rhyne, looking for her father, but not finding him. Since that time,
he had kept his eye on her, protecting her for a whole year, except the one slip where that
doctor took her for whatever nefarious plans. He did owe the android, Mr. Bill, for protecting her
when he failed.

Not that you could tell by looking at him, but that left a deep scar on him. Until now, until Miss
Leeza, he had never really had to take care of anyone. He relied on his skills and his wits.
They had kept him out of more than one scrape, but being a guttersnipe on his homeworld was
not a good place to be. Escaping off-world was the best thing for him till he got caught and was
given a choice - Jail or make something of himself.

Well, here he was no a Chief Petty Officer in Starfleet. If his father could see him now, but that
was so far in the past. His family was now Miss Leeza, Commander Gregory, and until today
Mr. Weston, but he was hiding something, and that was not like him. Add to that this farce of
having her adopted by the Hammons. While he respected Steven as a security officer, he didn’t
really know the wife. Or did he understand why it happened, and happened quickly. He was like
Miss Leeza, wishing for the first time in his life that Commander Gregory would wake up and set
things right. He knew the Commander would.

Mr. Weston turned to him, “What do you think P’Rah?”

The Caitian shook his head, “About what, Sir?” he said formally. “Miss Leeza is with
Commander Gregory, under the care of Doctor Aggie. Hopefully she will get some sleep, she
was up early, Illuminar Time.”

Weston’s tone turned serious, ““I really think I may have hurt her feelings earlier. She knows that
we’re meeting about her. But how do you tell a three year old that. I just didn’t know what to say
and I didn’t want to lie. This honesty thing is not as easy as you make it seem.”

P’Rah shrugged, “The sin of omission is just another form of lying, Sir,” he said, “And not
something you do to a young girl.”

Before he could say more, the door opened again, and in walked Lieutenant Commander T’Mur,
the Chief Security Officer. He had not really interacted with her before he left for the Rhyne, as
she was usually on the bridge. She looked around the room before speaking, “Doctor,
Lieutenant,” she said, “I am gratified to see you both well.”

She turned to turn her gaze on P’Rah, “I hope our discussion will lead to returning my security
staff to me,” she said.

P’Rah flashed his toothy grin, his tail swishing in an agitated manner, “That will be up to
Commander Gregory, Ma’am,” he said softly.

(Reply - Weston, T’Mur, others)
(Posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Rooms - CSec - Lt.Commander T'Mur - 0727)

“That will be up to Commander Gregory, Ma’am,” P'Rah said softly.

T'Mur stopped in her tracks and turned to look at the Caitian Security officer with a questioning
eyebrow. "Chief P'Rah, just for clarification, did you request a transfer to Operations? I have
not seen that. So unless you are planning to do so you are under my jurisdiction. Although
Commander Gregory is my superior officer, I am the Chief of Security, not he."

She took a step towards the Caitiian, "And your statement is illogical in the fact that at this
moment, Commander Gregory is incapable of making any decision. I have allowed this to
continue out of respect for your wishes to stay with Leeza Pel. I have no actual plans to remove
you from that duty. However, if you wish to challenge my role as your direct commanding officer
I am open to hearing your argument."

(reply P'Rah)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room, SO CPO P’Rah - 0728)

P’Rah stared at T’Mur as she spoke, "Chief P'Rah, just for clarification, did you request a
transfer to Operations? I have not seen that. So unless you are planning to do so you are
under my jurisdiction. Although Commander Gregory is my superior officer, I am the Chief of
Security, not he."

P’Rah stood from his chair, ramrod straight. “With all due respect, Ma’am, I am under direct
orders from your superior commander, and until he or a more senior ranking officer
countermands those orders, I will continue to follow them,” he replied, “At least that is the way I
was tought during Basic training, Ma’am.”

She began to approach the Caitian, "And your statement is illogical in the fact that at this
moment, Commander Gregory is incapable of making any decision. I have allowed this to
continue out of respect for your wishes to stay with Leeza Pel. I have no actual plans to remove
you from that duty. However, if you wish to challenge my role as your direct commanding officer
I am open to hearing your argument."

P’Rah shrugged his shoulders, “I am following a lawfully given order, Ma’am. Just because the
Commander is incapacitated, the order remains lawful and in force. To assume otherwise risks
life and limb, especially on the field of battle,” he replied. “And yes Ma’am, I report to you via
the chain of command and as befits my current posting. However, you report to him, and he to
the Captain. Further, it is our first duty to protect civilians, which Miss Leeza is most certainly
one.”

(reply T’Mur)
(Posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Rooms - CSec - Lt.Commander T'Mur - 0729)

T’Mur took a deep breath, not understanding why P’Rah had decided to challenge her authority
over him.

“Chief P’Rah,” she said, “you are correct that I do answer to Commander Gregory. Just as You
answer to me. However when it comes to running my department the only officer I answer to is
Commander Williams-Verin and Captain Sekal. Beyond them I am the head of my department,
and no other. Your duty is to follow my orders. If you have a conflict with those orders then by
all means register your complaint with the captain.”

She sighed still trying to understand what P’Rah was up to. “Since you cannot or will not comply
with my orders, after this meeting you are relieved of duty and confined to quarters until I have
time to bring the matter up to the captain.”

Weston stood and approached the pair, “Whoa, hang on Lt. Commander. P’Rah has worked
closer with Leeza than anyone else. He also was the one who discovered her on the Rhyne, so
he has a sense of responsibility for her. I understand what you’re saying about who he should
answer to, but he may not be thinking clearly about this. Right P’Rah?”

He tried to give the Caitian a look that warned him of his impending troubles. If something
happened to take P’Rah out of the picture Michael was unsure how Leeza would handle that.

(reply P’Rah)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0730)

He stepped into the conference room, having been held up momentarily by last minute
preparations for transfer of the estate on Vulcan to a notably tense atmosphere in the room and
his Chief of Security facing off against the Caitian security officer.

 "Further, it is our first duty to protect civilians, which Miss Leeza is most certainly one.”

He didn't question the reason for this standoff now, there would be time later. Looking around he
noted that not all had arrived yet.

Steven Hammons and Alaya skipped through the door after the Captain and made directly for a
couple of chairs on the far side of the long table.

(Reply: Alaya)

"Your discussion is no doubt fascinating but please take a seat. I will certainly look into it later
but now is not the time."

(Reply: T'Mur, P'rah)

He sat down as they did then addressed Michael Weston. "Mr. Weston, while we are waiting for
the rest to arrive perhaps you could explain the necessity for this meeting."

(Reply: Weston, any)
(Posted by Charles G)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0731)
Michael had hoped that his words to both T’Mur and P’Rah had settled the issue for the
moment. When the captain entered he caught the end of the conversation and said he’d look
into the matter. He hoped that they could settle it before they all walked out of the room.

The Hammons came in and made directly for their chairs without a comment. The captain
joined them and Michael turned back to his seat. Then the captain bid him to explain the reason
for the meeting. He looked around at the others, and settled on the faces of the Hammons.
They had been so kind to offer to take in Leeza. How would they feel once he opened his can
of worms. Then he looked at Quinna. He hadn’t lied to her, but there had never been a chance
to tell her. She was going to be angry.

Finally he took a breath and stood up, “In all the debriefings we’ve had concerning the Rhyne’s
last year I have withheld one piece of information. To be honest, it never really came up, but I
also should have offered it without being asked. I…,” he looked at P’Rah, “we… spent the last
year protecting this secret. I guess it just became a habit.”

He turned to Sekal, “Captain, I saw you notice it on the bridge earlier. There’s something about
Leeza Pel.” He turned to Quinna, “And you Quinna, who is the one person from the Rhyne that
has not been to sickbay for herself. She has been such a frequent visitor everyone just figured
they’d get round to it when they got a chance.”

Then he turned back to look at the whole group. He closed his eyes then opened them, “When I
said Leeza Pel was special it was not just some kind of parental type brag. Leeza… has a living
symbiont inside of her. The symbiont Pel.”

At that moment the door opened and in walked, well, half walked, and half carried, was Deiter
Gregory, with Leeza and a doctor he didn’t recognize. Michael stood up, surprise not even
closely described how he was feeling. How was he up? How was he even in this room?
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Conference Room, 2/O and Cop CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0733)

Gregory’s fury drove him forward, toward whatever meeting was happening about Leeza, he
was damned sure to be at. Parents? He, Michael and P’Rah were her family now. He hoped,
but didn’t believe that the doctor had meant them.

Leaning hard onto Agnes who was helping him walk, with Leeza leading the way, they exited the
turbolift. Approaching the trio came his companion, SPOTS appeared, it’s legs moving fast to
catch up to its master. “SPOTS, this is Leeza Pel. Bewaken,” he added. The Robot’s eyes
flashed in understanding and it took up next to the little girl.

Without fanfare, the entorage entered the conference room, Gregory's hospital gown draped like
a backwards fighters robe. Agnes was continuing to holding it closed in the back. Looking
around the room he saw P’Rah and Michael.

“Captain Eggery is awake,” Leeza announced to the room triumphantly.

Gregory looked for a couple of seats, away from the others. He shot a dirty look at Weston
before sitting down. “Sorry I am late Captain, I just was informed of this meeting,” he said.
Turning to Leeza, sitting next to him, “I’d kill for a cup of tea, if you would be so kind. The way
you make it is perfect.”
“Don’t speak all at once,” he said as he turned back to the table, “Its not like you are seeing a
ghost. Or are you?” Gregory said in a dry voice. “So, who’s meeting is this anyway?”

P’Rah grinned seeing the Commander enter the room, even if he wasn’t in uniform. He
snapped up out of his chair, moving to stand behind Gregory’s at attention.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Tim and Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0734)

“Captain Eggery is awake,” Leeza announced and helped him get to a chair.

“I see,” Michael said, smiling. But the look Dieter gave him wiped the smile off his face. He
didn’t understand the look. While they were on the Rhyne a friendship had grown between
them. While he was in a coma Gregory had become his confidant, and Michael’s feelings
became stronger towards him as he bore his soul to the man. But he realized that was a one
relationship.

“Sorry I am late Captain” Gregory said, “I just was informed of this meeting,” He told Leeza, “I’d
kill for a cup of tea, if you would be so kind. The way you make it is perfect.”

“Don’t speak all at once,” he said as he turned back to the table, “Its not like you are seeing a
ghost. Or are you?” Gregory said in a dry voice. “So, who’s meeting is this anyway?”

“I’m not sure what you mean who’s meeting it is,” Michael said, “but you weren’t invited since
you’ve, well to be blunt, been in a coma for the last six months. This is absolutely the last place
anyone expected you to be able to come to.”

(reply Gregory)

The door opened again and this time it was Kyllee, who was out of breath. Clearly he had run all
the way.

“Would someone mind telling me exactly what the hell is going on here,” Kyllee growled. He
turned to Vanderstein and said, “The standing order has been if Commander Gregory makes
any change I’m to be contacted immediately, not take him for a damn stroll. What the hell is
wrong with you… Doctor?”

(Reply Vanderstein).

He pulled out his medical tricorder and began to scan Gregory.

“What’s going on here?” Kyllee addressed the group at the table. “Looks like a damned Spanish
Inquisition. Never mind. Don’t care. Let’s go Mr Gregory, back to sickbay.”

He saw the defiant look on Gregory’s face and his own hardened. “The easy way or the hard
way, Commander, but either way your coming back to sickbay, and stay there until I have
released you from my care.”
He tapped his comm badge, “Sickbay, prepare to beam Commander Gregory back to sickbay.
Put him in one of the secure rooms.”

It was a showdown between the two men.

Suddenly Weston spoke up, “Wait Doctor, he’s already here, and he has as much a right to his
say as P’Rah and I. Let him stay. If looks like he’s struggling then by all means, take him.”

Then Weston looked at Dieter and opened his hands, “Fair enough?”

(reply Gregory)

“I’m not sure why you have a full head of steam, Commander, or what you’re so angry about.
Should we take a moment to clear the air before we continue?”

(reply Gregory, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0736)

“I’m not sure what you mean who’s meeting it is,” Michael said, “but you weren’t invited since
you’ve, well to be blunt, been in a coma for the last six months. This is absolutely the last place
anyone expected you to be able to come to.”

Gregory chuckled, “Lieutenant Weston. The pips look good on you and are well deserved,”
turning back to the group, “By who’s meeting, who called it and who’s running it?” He paused,
and spoke softly, “A wizard is never late, Mr. Weston. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely
when he means to.”

Turning to P’Rah, “Can you get Leeza her coloring book and some crayons please.”

The Caitian nodded and placed the required material in front of Leeza.

“Anyway, while unexpected, I am here now, and ready to discuss the issue I believe is being
raised.”

Suddenly Dr. Kyllee came running into the room. After addressing Dr. Vanderstein, he turned to
Gregory and began scanning him.

“I think you will find, doctor, that I am well and functioning within human standards. At least this
is what was revealed to me before I awoke,” Gregory replied.

“The easy way or the hard way, Commander, but either way your coming back to sickbay, and
stay there until I have released you from my care.” The doctor tapped his com badge “Sickbay,
prepare to beam Commander Gregory back to sickbay. Put him in one of the secure rooms.”

Gregory moved to stand up when Weston spoke, “Wait Doctor, he’s already here, and he has as
much a right to his say as P’Rah and I. Let him stay. If looks like he’s struggling then by all
means, take him.”
Gregory paused, sitting back down, “Indeed, I have the good doctor Vanderstein here to keep
an eye on me and my vitals. When this meeting is over, I am sure the good doctor be sure to
give me a complete physical,” he said.

“I’m not sure why you have a full head of steam, Commander, or what you’re so angry about.
Should we take a moment to clear the air before we continue?” Weston said.

“Anger?” he said smiling, “I was concerned that is all. You are right, best to get it all in the open
now, especially since I am here, since I do have a vested interest in the discussions and
outcome. Why don’t you continue Lieutenant Weston, where you were going before I made my
grand entrance?”
He leaned back in his chair and took a sip of his tea, watching as Leeza colored a page in her
book.

(reply, all in room)
(Posted by Tim)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0737)

Kyllee was not impressed by Gregory’s bravado, “I will conduct your full physical after this. And
maybe you can tell who informed you of your medical condition before you woke up.” He
stepped back, still giving Vanderstein a warning look.

Weston watched wondering how much more of a circus this could become when Gregory asked
P’Rah for Leeza’s coloring books. He sighed recognizing that this was his way of making a
power play. He was clearly of the mind that Leeza was going to stay. Michael’s decision to not
have her there was to protect Leeza and not have a confrontation with Pel.

He was willing to deal with Leeza being a little mad at him, but he couldn’t send her away now.
Gregory was forcing a hand that he hadn’t intended to play. Finally he shrugged his shoulders
and gave his friend a look of ~I hope you know what you’re doing.~

“To answer your question,” he started,”I called this meeting. Who’s running right now seems to
be in question. However, I would say that Captain Sekal is running it. Now to continue,” he
paused looking Leeza, then sighed, “we need to talk about the fact that Leeza has a symbiont in
her. We can’t keep it a secret any more.“

He paused to hear what anyone had to say about that information.

(reply any, all)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- FO Commander Sienna Verin - 0739)

Sienna had been late getting to the meeting, Being less than 10 minutes late was amazing as
she hurried into the room. Her body was still gaunt, but she was slowly regaining muscular tone
with the physio program she had started a few days earlier when she began to recover.
Striding into the conference room, she took in the tableaux and sighed. The doctors were having
a snit, there was a 3 yr old coloring, and Commander Gregory had obviously come out of his
coma, which was good for the ship on the whole. Sliding into her seat next to T'Mur, Sy looked
around the table. Alaya looked close to tears, like her world was ending.

"Doctors, now is not a good time for this discussion." She glanced over at Sekal to see if she
had overstepped. "I also need to raise the objection that the child should not be present. There
will be a lot of information presented that will be difficult for a child to understand." Sienna's
parents had taken in many orphans after the destruction in san francisco. She knew that this
was going to be a battle.

Weston began the meeting and Sienna knew that this was going to be a fiasco. Sienna rapped
her knuckles on the table and looked around.

"I'd appreciate one of the doctors taking Leeza back to sickbay to begin the necessary scans
that are going to be needed. You feel that the child should be here, Commander Gregory, but
that is not Starfleet procedure. Leeza should be represented by an impartial advocate.
Counselor Hammons and I had a very brief meeting the other day about this. When we realized
what the implications were going to be, we knew we were going to need help."

Sienna turned her dark eyes to Weston, "I understand life on the Rhyne was difficult, and that
you were all in survival mode. You are no longer in a crises, you are home. We have time to
discuss and decide, as a team, what is to be done. The childish tantrum is exactly why the child
should not be present. Mr. Weston, we knew that she was a joined trill the moment she beamed
aboard. We kept that information close to the chest, and I have no idea how Dr. Solice was not
included in receiving that information. As the CMO, she should have been informed. As the 3O,
she absolutely needed to be informed. We need to work on our communication obviously. I'm
sorry Dr. Solice, we'll figure out why you were not informed when the Captain and I were."

Another look around the room and repeated what she had just said, "I guarantee that if you
were all going to be scanned your adrenaline and cortisol levels would be off the charts, which is
normal for living in a high-stress, always-on situation. There are medical treatments that can
help you readjust, one of our Doctors can suggest that. So we are all going to have some grace
for each other in a difficult situation and not start sniping at colleagues, and figure out how to
move forward as a team."

Sienna knew that one of the biggest reasons that she had been picked to be the FO of the
Illuminar was that she was a balance to the Captain's logic.

"I also think, based on some of the issues that Alaya presented, that Drs. Michaella and Riven
Mias should be here. Riven in his capacity as a federation ambassador, and Michaella because
her original training was as a pediatric doctor. I think between our excellent medical crew, and
Dr. Kirien, that we will be able to formulate a solution."

Sienna looked around the table one more time and then sat back down. She'd just kicked the
hornet's nest.

(reply any at the conference)
(pb Mel)
____________________________________________________________________________
(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room-Cr. Agnes Vanderstein - 0740)

Anges knew there was going to be drama. And this was a juicy one. Who knew she was going
to be included on this one.

“Would someone mind telling me exactly what the hell is going on here,” Kyllee growled. He
turned to Vanderstein and said, “The standing order has been if Commander Gregory makes
any change I’m to be contacted immediately, not take him for a damn stroll. What the hell is
wrong with you… Doctor?”

Agnes glared at Stev, “You do not want to go there.” she turned to Dieter, “Looks like my job is
done. See you around, Cutie.” Agnes turned to Stev when she left “Maybe you should have
checked your messages.”


(Reply any)
(Posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- 3XO/CMO Quinna Solice and MO Leeza Pel -
0745)

Quinna was like a fly on the wall in the conference room. She observed the interaction between
t’Mur and P’Rah and now Dieter got out of a coma for this little girl. She made notes to discuss
appropriate behavior with Agnes and how we all work together with Stev. With Dieter here,
Quinna felt some relief to see her friend. There was much for them to talk about. Her attention
then went to the little girl. She saw how P’Rah, Dieter, and Michael look at her.

“To answer your question,” he started, "I called this meeting. Who’s running right now seems to
be in question. However, I would say that Captain Sekal is running it. Now to continue,” he
paused looking Leeza, then sighed, “we need to talk about the fact that Leeza has a symbiont in
her. We can’t keep it a secret anymore.“

That was a jaw-dropping moment, Quinna’s head snapped to Michael, “Excuse me?” She
asked. “Did you just say that Leeza is a joined Trill?”

(Reply, any, all)

“And you did not tell me?!” Quinna said directly to Michael. Then she looked at P’Rah, Dieter,
and Stev. “And you did not tell me?!” She said pointedly to Kyllee. She felt that was something
needed to be on Dr. Kyllee’s Rhyne report.”

(Reply Weston, Kyllee)

Leeza looked at Michael. She was angry. “You told daddy’s secret,” Leeza started to sob.
“How could you tell Daddy’s secret?”

(Reply Weston)

“Dr. Kyllee, I want her medical reports immediately.” Quinna then turned her head to Michael.
She gave him that look.
(reply any, all)
(posted by Kris B)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0747)

Gregory shook his head as Michael revealed Leeza’s secret. Something that had been kept
close hold on the Rhyne that only 4 people knew of it. And now, like that it was in the open.

~Containment was going to be a huge issue~ Gregory thought as Dr. Solace started around the
four from the Rhyne.

Leeza started to cry, clearly angry with Michael. “You told daddy’s secret. How could you tell
Daddy’s secret?”

Gregory reached over to comfort the girl pulling her into his lap while he looked at Weston
again, “Smooth, Mr. Weston, very smooth,” he said.

Turning to Quinna, “Dr. Solice. On the Rhyne, we did not keep many records at my command. I
don’t know what information was retrieved from the Rhyne, but lets put that off for the moment,
now that the cat is, as they say, out of the bag and return to the issues at hand.” He turned his
chair to face Weston, "Go on, Mr. Weston, please."

(reply, all in room)
(Posted by Tim)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0748)

There were two looks that tore through Michael’s soul right now. The first was Quinna. He could
see the hurt and disbelief in her eyes.

“Excuse me?” she asked. “Did you just say that Leeza is a joined Trill?”

Michael cleared his throat and nodded saying, “Thatis what I said.”

Her eyes shot lasers at him as she said, “And you did not tell me?!” Then she looked at P’Rah,
Dieter, and Stev. “And you did not tell me?!” She said pointedly to Kyllee. She felt that was
something needed to be on Dr. Kyllee’s Rhyne report.”

“To be honest, we really haven’t had time for that conversation,” Michael said.

The other set of eyes were Leeza’s. He really hadn’t wanted Leeza to even be in the room when
they had this conversation, but Gregory had force his hand. Now it was out there.

Leeza looked at Michael and cried, “You told daddy’s secret. How could you tell Daddy’s
secret?”
Her tears ripped his heart to shreds but it was too late. The damage had been done. He stood
his ground. “I’m sorry Leeza but this conversation had to happen sooner or later. With adults,
sooner is better than later.”

“Dr. Kyllee, I want her medical reports immediately.” Quinna told the Bajoran doctor.

Gregory pulled Leeza in to comfort her and pulled her onto his lap. “Smooth, Mr. Weston, very
smooth,” he said.

Suddenly Michael Weston returned. His eyes narrowed as his heart hardened. What hell right
did he have to cast aspersions on him? Where was he for the last six months? Where the hell
has he been the last three days? He comes out of a coma and then throws everything that he
tried to instill on him about being a good officer back in his face?

Turning to Quinna, “Dr. Solice, on the Rhyne, we did not keep many records at my command. I
don’t know what information was retrieved from the Rhyne, but let's put that off for the moment,
now that the cat is, as they say, out of the bag and return to the issues at hand.” He turned his
chair to face Weston, "Go on, Mr. Weston, please."

“We’ll I certainly am glad to have your permission to continue, Commander, since, after all, I did
haul your near dead butt all over another universe to bring you back safely. You think you can
suddenly show up here and make me feel like I’ve made a mistake.”

He turned to the crying Leeza, “I’m sorry you’re upset Leeza, but you had to know that this
secret had to come out. Dig deep Pel, and stop hanging me out to dry for what you did.”

He turned to Quinna, fire burning in his eyes, “What was I supposed to do? Yes, on the Rhyne
we managed to keep the information between just the four of us. We felt it best for Leeza’s
safety. None of us,” he looked at Gregory, “knew what the implications of this was going to be.
We just wanted to keep a three year old girl safe. And we did. Even after Commander Gregory
was out in a comma. Smooth, you have absolutely no idea.If you all thought you put your faith
and belief in the wrong man, then get over it.”

He turned to Sekal, “I apologize, Captain. That probably was very becoming of an officer, but
since I’m new at this hopefully you can grant me a little latitude.”

Then he turned back to the group, “So, if you are all over your piques of shock and dismay at
my behavior, is there anyone who would care to give a pertinent question or opinion?”

(reply any, all)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0749)

Gregory looked around the room to gauge reaction. He listened to Michael rant before
speaking.

“I stand by my decision then, and now,” Gregory replied. “I was under the impression this was a
discussion about who would watch over little Leeza. A meeting about her parents was what
drove me here.”
“However, it seems another topic is to be on the table for today,” he added. Turning to P’Rah,
“Mr. P’Rah, if you could take Leeza and make sure she gets some breakfast.

He watched as the Caitian took the little girl off of Gregory’s lap. SPOTS, Gregory’s robot dog,
wagged it’s tail and followed Leeza and P’Rah out of the conference room. “I’ll come get you
soon Leeza,” he said.

Once P’Rah and Leeza were out of the room, he looked around. “My only fault with you Mr.
Weston, Michael, is that this secret was revealed in a rather open forum. But it is in the wild
now, and we must deal with the consequences.”

(reply, all in room)
(Posted by Tim)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- COUNS Alaya Hammons - 0750)

Alaya and Steven had been at this meeting for over 20 minutes and neither had really talked in
the meeting. The more senior officers were having a throw-down brawl in the conference room,
and Leeza was sobbing and clinging to Gregory. Alaya rose from her chair to head over to
Leeza, but Sienna and Gregory had ordered her to be removed from the room, crying and
sobbing that broke Alaya's heart into pieces. The pain showed on her face.

"Commander Gregory, respectfully, you are not going to be parenting that child. Your history and
current instability are evident. Perhaps in the future, that might be evaluated, but right now, you
are not fit for duty, let alone parenting a vulnerable child." Alaya turned to the Captain.

"Sir, I respectfully request that a neutral advocate be assigned to Leeza. Someone not involved
in this kerfluffle. Perhaps Dr. Mias or his wife would be the best choices, or Mr. Laredo. I wanted
to have Mr. Laredo present for this meeting since Luma will be involved. She is intrigued by
Leeza and wants to interact with her. There are also long term issues related to her
development that we need to discuss."

Alaya sat back down, her hands shaking. She was so scared. And the feeling of the crew didn't
feel like one team pulling together any longer. There were bigger issues than just Leeza that
needed to be discussed.

(reply those in meeting)
(posted by Mel)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- SFI - Lt. Michael Weston - 0751)

Once Michael had settled down he felt badly about his outburst. His emotions had gotten the
best of him. He hadn’t expected the presence of Leeza. Her raw three year old emotions along
with Quinna’s own anger was a lot. Then there was P’Rah who all but called him a liar. Finally
Dieter, throwing accusations at him, and Leeza turning to him over Michael, it was too much for
Weston’s emotions. Now he had shut them down. He was back to having no family.
Gregory acquiesced to the request to get Leeza out of the meeting and had P’Rah take her for
breakfast, even though Weston wanted the Caitian there. It wasn’t worth the protest. He knew
that he had been undermined completely and accepted it. In the intelligence game these things
happened.

“I’ll come get you soon Leeza,” he said.

As P’Rah and Leeza left Michael said, “I guess I won’t be teaching you how to swim today.”

“My only fault with you Mr. Weston,” Gregory said, ” “Michael, is that this secret was revealed in
a rather open forum. But it is in the wild now, and we must deal with the consequences.”

Michael shook his head, “In my opinion this is a smaller forum than it could have been, and
these were the people who needed to know.”

Suddenly there was a rapping on the table and Verin started talking.

Sienna rapped her knuckles on the table and looked around.

"Leeza should be represented by an impartial advocate,” she stated. “Counselor Hammons and
I had a very brief meeting the other day about this. When we realized what the implications
were going to be, we knew we were going to need help."

She said something about how life on the Rhyne was difficult and how he was throwing a
childish tantrum. Which was just fantastic, somebody else thinking he needed criticism. "Mr.
Weston, we knew that she was a joined trill the moment she beamed aboard. We kept that
information close to the chest, and I have no idea how Dr. Solice was not included in receiving
that information. As the CMO, she should have been informed. As the 3O, she absolutely
needed to be informed. We need to work on our communication obviously. I'm sorry Dr. Solice,
we'll figure out why you were not informed when the Captain and I were."

Michael was surprised by that news. If they had all known about Leeza’s situation why did they
wait for him to bring it up. Why that level of secrecy. Maybe Gregory was right and this was a
mistake.

ThenVerin said that they could have medical treatments to help them adjust back to a stress
free life on the Illuminar. ~Strees free? Right.~.

“So we are all going to have some grace for each other in a difficult situation and not start
sniping at colleagues, and figure out how to move forward as a team."

Michael worked hard to not roll his eyes at that since the only teamwork Verin wanted with him
was to be part of a hit team to kill him.

"I also think, based on some of the issues that Alaya presented, that Drs. Michaella and Riven
Mias should be here. Riven in his capacity as a federation ambassador, and Michaella because
her original training was as a pediatric doctor. I think between our excellent medical crew, and
Dr. Kirien, that we will be able to formulate a solution."

~A solution? A solution to what?~
“You violated the privacy of an individual as they passed through the transporter?” he said softly,
“Those data are under the strictest of protections as privileged information and are not to be
accessed except in the most extreme cases, after a legal review of facts. Tell me, Commander
Sienna, did that happen?”

(reply Sienna)

Weston had kept an eye on the Hammons. He liked them and he had accepted that they were
a better choice of a stable family than him and P’Rah. He had allowed that to happen without
the knowledge of Gregory’s miraculous recovery.

"Commander Gregory, respectfully, you are not going to be parenting that child. Your history and
current instability are evident. Perhaps in the future, that might be evaluated, but right now, you
are not fit for duty, let alone parenting a vulnerable child," Alaya said.

Gregory starred at her for a moment, “For the first six months on the Rhyne, Michael and I were
her parents, thank you very much. She was well taken care of and blossomed there. By what
criteria do you judge me an unfit candidate for the job. I am not sure what you mean by my
history, perhaps you want to spell it out clearly. As for instability, by what criteria are you making
that accusation. I am quite sane and stable, thank you very much for asking.”

The counselor turned to address Sekal, "Sir, I respectfully request that a neutral advocate be
assigned to Leeza. Someone not involved in this kerfluffle. Perhaps Dr. Mias or his wife would
be the best choices, or Mr. Laredo. I wanted to have Mr. Laredo present for this meeting since
Luma will be involved. She is intrigued by Leeza and wants to interact with her. There are also
long term issues related to her development that we need to discuss."

Gregory sighed, “That may be the smartest think you have said Councillor. I would agree that
Dr. Mias would be an ideal advocate for Leeza, and I will agree to support and follow his
recommendations.”

(reply Sekal)

There was a break in the conversation and Michael had that question churning around in his
head since someone had spoken it.

“Can we go back a bit?” Weston asked. “You said to formulate a solution. You siad, let me
quote, ‘between our excellent medical staff, and Dr. Kirien you can formulate a solution. A
solution to what?”

(reply Sekal, Sienna, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Main Conference Room - 2/O &COps CMDR Dieter Gregory - 0752)

Gregory looked at the first officer as she spoke, “Mr. Weston, we knew that she was a joined trill
the moment she beamed aboard. We kept that information close to the chest, and I have no
idea how Dr. Solice was not included in receiving that information.”
“You violated the privacy of an individual as they passed through the transporter?” he said softly,
“Those data are under the strictest of protections as privileged information and are not to be
accessed except in the most extreme cases, after a legal review of facts. Tell me, Commander
Sienna, did that happen?”

(reply Sienna)

As the conversations went along, the counsellor spoke up.

"Commander Gregory, respectfully, you are not going to be parenting that child. Your history and
current instability are evident. Perhaps in the future, that might be evaluated, but right now, you
are not fit for duty, let alone parenting a vulnerable child," the Councillor Hammons said.

Gregory starred at her for a moment, “For the first six months on the Rhyne, Michael and I were
her parents, thank you very much. She was well taken care of and blossomed there. By what
criteria do you just me an unfit candidate for the job.” “I am not sure what you mean by my
history, perhaps you want to spell it out clearly,” he kept his eyes on her. “As for instability, by
what criteria are you making that accusation. I am quite sane and stable, thank you very much
for asking.”

Gregory listened as Alaya addressed the Captain, "Sir, I respectfully request that a neutral
advocate be assigned to Leeza. Someone not involved in this kerfluffle. Perhaps Dr. Mias or his
wife would be the best choices, or Mr. Laredo. I wanted to have Mr. Laredo present for this
meeting since Luma will be involved. She is intrigued by Leeza and wants to interact with her.
There are also long term issues related to her development that we need to discuss."

Gregory sighed, “That may be the smartest think you have said Councillor. I would agree that
Dr. Mias would be an ideal advocate for Leeza, and I will agree to support and follow his
recommendations,” he replied.

(reply, all in room)
(Posted by Tim)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- CO, Captain Sekal - 0753)

The arrival of Commander Gregory was not only unexpected but turned out to be divisive as
well as the intended discussion concerning Leeza Pel devolved into a mass squabble which his
first officer attempted to tamp down unsuccessfully.

"Leeza should be represented by an impartial advocate, Counselor Hammons and I had a very
brief meeting the other day about this. When we realized what the implications were going to
be, we knew we were going to need help."

Sekal watched the faces of those involved with interest as she continued, the emotional
undercurrent in the room was still swelling and had not yet crested. Some level of emotion had
been expected but the arrival of his second officer had thrown the proverbial accelerant on the
fire.

"Mr. Weston, we knew that she was a joined trill the moment she beamed aboard. We kept that
information close to the chest, and I have no idea how Dr. Solice was not included in receiving
that information. As the CMO, she should have been informed. As the 3O, she absolutely
needed to be informed. We need to work on our communication obviously. I'm sorry Dr. Solice,
we'll figure out why you were not informed when the Captain and I were. So we are all going to
have some grace for each other in a difficult situation and not start sniping at colleagues, and
figure out how to move forward as a team."

Sienna had also been a victim of the mirror universe after a fashion and while her physical
condition was improving she was still thin.

"I also think, based on some of the issues that Alaya presented, that Drs. Michaella and Riven
Mias should be here. Riven in his capacity as a federation ambassador, and Michaella because
her original training was as a pediatric doctor. I think between our excellent medical crew, and
Dr. Kirien, that we will be able to formulate a solution."

Her attempt to defuse the situation, while noteworthy failed to have the desired effect.

“You violated the privacy of an individual as they passed through the transporter?” he said softly,
“Those data are under the strictest of protections as privileged information and are not to be
accessed except in the most extreme cases, after a legal review of facts. Tell me, Commander
Sienna, did that happen?”

Sekal then stood to his feet, this had allowed to continue for too long. All eyes were drawn to
him momentarily.

"Mr. Gregory your tone and manner are insubordinate and you appear to have forgotten that all
data that comes through the Illuminar is available to the command crew. Star Fleet is not a
political organization and while we are bound by Federation law the ships of the fleet require full
transparency for the officers in command in order to ensure their ability to function. This includes
rooting out possible dysfunctional elements before they can gain a foothold on the vessel."

His head swiveled to look at all in the room before returning to Gregory. "Your return is welcome
however your heightened aggression and protective instincts toward the child while noteworthy
are unnecessary here. I suggest you adjust your manner to a less volatile one."

Having spoken that he addressed the rest. "This applies to all concerned. Any who wish to
continue a confrontational stance will be removed from the meeting. You may continue the
discussion but I expect some level of cooperation and a foundation laid for a concensus. I will
adjudicate this meeting to that end as necessary."

Giving all a final flat look he resumed his seat. "Continue."

Alaya was the next to speak.

"Commander Gregory, respectfully, you are not going to be parenting that child. Your history and
current instability are evident. Perhaps in the future, that might be evaluated, but right now, you
are not fit for duty, let alone parenting a vulnerable child,"

Commander Gregory replied. “For the first six months on the Rhyne, Michael and I were her
parents, thank you very much. She was well taken care of and blossomed there. By what
criteria do you judge me an unfit candidate for the job. I am not sure what you mean by my
history, perhaps you want to spell it out clearly. As for instability, by what criteria are you making
that accusation. I am quite sane and stable, thank you very much for asking.”


Mrs. Hammons turned to the Captain. "Sir, I respectfully request that a neutral advocate be
assigned to Leeza. Someone not involved in this kerfluffle. Perhaps Dr. Mias or his wife would
be the best choices, or Mr. Laredo. I wanted to have Mr. Laredo present for this meeting since
Luma will be involved. She is intrigued by Leeza and wants to interact with her. There are also
long term issues related to her development that we need to discuss."

“That may be the smartest thing you have said Councillor. I would agree that Dr. Mias would be
an ideal advocate for Leeza, and I will agree to support and follow his recommendations.”

The Captain nodded. "I am in agreement on this." He tapped the button to the comm on the
control panel before him. "Doctor Mias please come to the main conference room, your
expertise is required."

=^= That sounds interesting, I'm on my way Captain.=^= The cheerful voice of Counselor, Mind
Healer, Priest and Ambassador Mias replied. The Betazoid wore many hats and wore them all
with aplomb.

"While we are awaiting the arrival of Doctor Mias this discussion will be halted momentarily.
Other questions or concerns may be expressed."

The next to speak was Michael Weston.

“Can we go back a bit? You said to formulate a solution. You siad, let me quote, ‘between our
excellent medical staff, and Dr. Kirien you can formulate a solution. A solution to what?”

(Reply: Any)
(Posted by Charles G)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar- Deck 1- Main Conference Room- FO, Commander Sienna Verin - 0754)

The way that Gregory turned on her didn't surprise Sienna at all. The look of shock on her face
at his blatant disrespect kept her mouth shut while Sekal handled the needed attitude
judgement.

 "Tell me, Commander Sienna, did that happen?” Feeling T'Mur's hand on her leg, Sienna
ignored the anger that burned inside her. She'd gone through hell to get back from the Rhyne.
But Sekal as always had her back. She was going to have to have a showdown with Gregory
later, and that annoyed her.

Sienna could feel Alaya's fear beating at her paper thin shields. But at least they were holding.
The meeting proceeded and Dr. Mias was asked to come to the conference room.

“Can we go back a bit? You said to formulate a solution. You siad, let me quote, ‘between our
excellent medical staff, and Dr. Kirien you can formulate a solution. A solution to what?”

"Yes, but lets wait till Dr. Mias gets here so this doesn't have to be explained multiple times."
A few moments passed with mostly silence interspersed with whispers and light chit chat.
Sienna took the moment to type into her padd, sending her text message to Doc Solice. [[Scan
Cmdr Gregory unobtrusively please. His aggressive stance is out of character.]] Remembering
the way Gregory had acted in the past in regard to her, Sy added another text message.
[[Report directly to the Captain privately if there are any issues, please.]] Trying to honor
privacy while trying to balance egos was so difficult and exhausting.

(Reply Riven)

When Dr. Mias had sat down, Sy leaned forward to take the glass of OJ that had been poured
earlier to wet her mouth. "Right before you were called, Dr. Mias, there was a question about
what the medical issues are for a trill child who was joined before she was an adult. As some of
you know, I was involved with Trill during the symbiosis virus, that paved the way for Trill to
rejoin the Federation. I got a lot of data out of the symbiosis commission on the physiological
effects of joining." Sienna took a small chip out of her pocket and slid it across the table to
Quinna.

"The data on that chip can't be copied, or altered and if the Symbiosis Commission found out,
they would be displeased that I am sharing it. But in the interests of keeping a child living, I am
sharing it. Please keep it confidential." She nodded towards Quinna.

"Dr. Solice can speak more expertly on this subject than I can - but a child's body, especially a
toddler's body, is not a suitable long-term host. There have been incidents in Trill's history due to
this. A host Trill's number one duty, at all times, is to keep the symbiont alive, and to keep it alive
it needs the pools on Trill with their keepers, or a host's body. There have been several notable
examples of what happens when a child too young is joined. For the Trill, culturally, they insist
that the host be of age, with their own personality firmly in place before the bonding and
blending where two become one. But practically, the youngest trill in records to survive was 14
years old. Trill parents who have had no choice will put the symbiont in a child if necessary,
knowing that the result will ultimately be the death of their child. If there is ever a choice, the
answer the Symbiosis Commission will unilaterally give is that the Symbiont is what matters."

Sy let that information sink in then continued, "We have to inform Trill that we have the Pel
symbiont. We will ultimately have to admit that the symbiont is in a child host. And I can
guarantee what the answer will be- return Miss Pel to Trill immediately, where she will die as the
symbiont is moved to a more suitable host. And that, is not acceptable. We need to figure out a
plan to keep Miss Pel alive, and we need to be able to present it to the symbiosis commission.
As Dr. Mias can tell you, the political situation on Trill is solid but shaky."

(reply all at the meeting)
(posted by Mel)
____________________________________________________________________________

(USS Illuminar - Pilot Ensign(sg) Vic ‘Raid’ Montero - 0800)

Montero sat in the ready room sipping his coffee. His co-pilot, Bebe ‘Gunsmoke’ Sheridan,
came walking in and took a seat next to him.

Lieutenant Rager walked in and took her place at the front of the room. This was just a
simulation and the second pilot team would be computer generated and controlled. “This drill
will simulate the Illuminar landing on a planet, and your wing will fly overwatch to prevent any
hostiles, if there are any, from trying to take a potshot at the Illuminar. The ROE are simple, No
aircraft withing 500 kilometers of the Illuminar, no hostile land troops withing 200 kilometers.
The Illuminar sensors will be at a disadvantage with the ship on the ground.” She paused. “We
will have a ready 5 fighter on deck if needed, but launching from a stationary ship is different
from space launch, so it may go sideways. If so, you will have to do your best up there, but the
Illuminar must be defended at all costs. This is just a simple milkrun,” she said looking at
Montero.

“Aye Ma’am, no such thing as a milk run. Protect the king at all costs,” Montero replied. “Copy.”

Corday had been sitting in the back of the room, watching the other pilots as they received their
instructions. Most of them seemed rather complacent. He’d spent some time with Montero
before spending the next year in the AU, as it had begun being called. He liked to think of it as
anti-wonderland. When Rager had finished, and Montero had clarified the parameters of the
hop he stood up.

“And if you were wondering who will be team leader for any possible hostels,” ‘Snoopy’ said,
“that would be me. I’ve picked up a few tricks in the past… well, year… or whatever, so as Lt.
Rager said, this is not going to be a walk in the park. The ships you’ll be facing will be more
mobile and work as cooperative unit.”

Montaro missed the pilot while he was gone on the Rhyne, as he was the only pilot who
matched his skills. Standing up, he turned and saluted “Der Red Baron reporting for ze duty,”

‘Snoopy’ smiled, “And it’s not even Christmas.”

“You have been missed, Sir,” Montero replied.

Arthur nodded, “Yeah, it was a long year for me too. I’m looking forward to flying something a
little more maneuverable than a starship.”

“Let’s see if flying that ship of the line has made you rusty,” he chuckled as they reached the
simulator.

“It’s like riding a bike, Snoopy, if you know how to do that,” Montero and Sheridan climbed into
their unit. Preflight went quickly and soon they were in in space, flying escort around the
Illuminar. Montero keyed his communicator, “Knight lead, this is knight 2 sliding in on your port
side,” he said. “Nothing on the scanners yet.”

=^= All flights, Queen has gone to Blue Alert. Move to station alpha 1 =^=

“Gunsmoke, keep a scan on their Illuminar’s trajectory. Anything looking odd?”

“Negative, Raid. Screens are clean at the moment. Tying in with planetary systems. No air
traffic within a thousand klicks from here.”

=^= The Queen is going down the Rabbit hole =^= came the call over their comms.

“Time for some thrilling heroics,” Raid said to his copilot.
“Copy that,” Gunsmoke replied. “Scanners on full, weapons charged but locked. Shields are at
max. I have the Illuminars’ trajectory.”

Raid looked at the navgation panel. =^= Knight 2 to Knight Lead, moving off 20 klicks =^= he
called =^= Screens are still green =^=

The descent seemed to take forever, but landing a 709 thousand metric ton ship on a planet
was not a simple task. “Entering the ionization zone, communications blackout beginning.”
Gunsmoke said.

“Now we wait,” Raid said, “I hate this part. Configure ship for atomospheric flight.”

Silently the pilot and co-pilot began to make the necessary adjustments for atmospheric flight.
Minutes past by slowly as the clock ticked down to the estimated time for the blackout to end.
Soon, the fighter emerged from the blackout and started receiving more telemetry from the
stations on the planet. “Comfirm our position,” he called out.

“We are in the pipe and receiving telemetry,” Gunsmoke replied.

Raid flipped the fighter around, pointing up to where the Illuminar should be emerging. Sure
enough, Lieuenant Grey Wolf was as precise as ever. “Eyes on the Illuminar,” he said to
Gunsmoke.

=^= Knight two to Knight lead, we have eyes on the ball. Resuming Escort =^=

Turning back to his co-pilot, “Give those lookdown scanners some extra power, this is an ideal
place for an ambush, I know,” he said whistfully. “And it’s never a milkrun. Never.”

“Illuminar is in the lane. Starting clearing run,” Raid said, as he turned the fighter down towards
the planet and started to fly lazy circles around the projected trajectory of the Illuminar. His
hands were firm on the controls, eyes darting around the controls and screens, trusting that
Gunsmoke was doing the same thing.

(reply none)
(Posted by Tim and Al)
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________

End Compile