Compile Summary

Romulus

(Romulus - Senate Conference Chamber - Praetor Vrih - 1105)
(Romulus – Senate Building, Praetor’s Office – Ambassador Brianna Frazier –
1106)
(Romulus - Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four– CCOUNS Ensign Jon
Nayati - 1111.5)
(Romulus - Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – CCOUNS Ensign Jon
Nayati (jg) – 1112.5)
(Romulus - Senate Building- Conference Chamber Four– A/COPS - Lt. Tom
Jackson - 1113)
(Romulus – Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – Senator Terrh – 1114)
(Romulus - Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – CCOUNS Ensign Jon
Nayati – 1114.5)
(Romulus – Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – Ambassador Brianna
Frazier – 1115)
(Romulus - Senate Conference Chamber - CSEC- Lt. Baylon Trinin - 1118)

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Norman Harper - Day 8- 1139)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Uhlan S'Tarleya - 1140)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Norman Harper - 1141)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Uhlan S'Tarleya - 1142)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward – ACSO Ensign Shayhiloosh – 1143.5)
(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – Sub-Commander Lhaes – 1145) 
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Crewman Denise Lebranski - 1145)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - CTAC Lt. Ammon Ranae - 1146)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward – COPS Lt. Maraht – 1146.5)
(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – Sub-Commander Lhaes – 1148)
(USS Hades - 10 Forward - Commander Rhian - 1148)
(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – Security Officer T'Sol– 1149)
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Sickbay - CMO Angeni O. Windsong-Trommashere - 1155)
(USS Hades – Deck 10- Hades Section, Engineering Control– Security Officer
T'Sol– 1159)
(USS Hades - Bridge - Lieutenant Ardena Carrow - 1200)
(USS Hades – Deck 10, Engineering Control – Centurion Mavus – 1201)
(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – CTAC Lt. Ammon Ranae  - 1202)
(USS Hades - Bridge – COPS Lt. Maraht - 1208)
(USS Hades - Bridge – Lieutenant Ardena Carrow - 1209)
(USS Hades - Bridge – COPS Lt. Maraht - 1211)

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Begin Compile
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Stardate: 2408.01.06

(Romulus - Senate Conference Chamber - Praetor Vrih - 1105)

"I cannot deny that the military benefits are a very real factor.  But
surely that is not the only thing that interests you?"  Frazier asked.

Vrih took a deep breath.  He came back around his chair and sat down.
"Personally, to be sure, it is not my only interest.  However, my people are
still a military people.  And not a trusting people.  In the old days, a
Praetor was only as strong as those he could buy to support him.  But before
that we had a sense of duty, of honor.  There are still Romulans like that,
but we are few and far between.  I must be able to make any resolve that we
come to presentable to my people.  I am Praetor, and my word will be carried
out, but I need that support of my people, and my Senate in order to fulfill
any dreams either of us may have about a lasting peace."

Suddenly Frazier stood up.  She seemed to have come to a resolve.  He wasn't
sure if it was a resolve of trust or not.  He could only hope.

"Well, I hope you don't think me rude Praetor, but if we continue then we
run the risk of hammering out a treaty right here between the two of us."
She smiled at him.  Not an unattractive smile.  "Let us return and begin
negotiations officially."

Vrih snorted, allowing himself a moment to enjoy the humor.  Then he
composed himself.

"I believe that you are correct," he stated, "but we would still have to
convince both of our peoples to anything that we may resolve in private.
However, before we go I feel obligated to tell you that the Continuing
Committee Chamber is surrounded with a scattering field that makes all forms
of communication outside of the chambers impossible.  It was actually
enforced to prevent any "accidental" matter transportation into or out of
the chamber.  But a subsequent affect would be disruption of any form of
electronic communication.  I'm certain you understand the precaution."

(reply Frazier)

"Also, I understand that many of those in Starfleet possess telepathic
abilities," he continued.  "My information tells me that even you are
telepathic.  You may find it a bit disorienting to find that we have managed
to find a way to create a field that would dampen those abilities.  Please
understand that my people are quite distrustful of the Federation already.
Having telepaths, even those sworn not to use their abilities, in the
presence of some of the members of the Continuing Committee is, shall we
say, a worry.  We have removed the cause for that concern, without removing
those involved."

(reply Frazier)

Finally Vrih stood and motioned to the door.  "Shall we rejoin you with your
comrades?"

He followed Frazier to the door, with Ejuil in tow.

(Romulus - Conference Chamber Four - Praetor Vrih - 1110)

Vrih followed Frazier from his office into the Cahmber.  He looked to note
that the Continuing Committee had already begun to assemble.  His eyes
darted from on member to the next.  It was comforting for him to see
Proconsel Daanel.  He had known Daanel for a long time, and trusted him
implicitly.  It was Daanel that had introduced Vrih to the idea of Praetor.
Not that Vrih had not come to that position on his own merits.    Daanel was
a Romulan of honor.

Lenak, however, was not quite as trusted.  He had achieved his post as
Vice-Proconcil the old fashioned way.  He inherited it.  The truth was that
his father had been a solid governmental official, until his untimely death.
There had been rumors that Lenak had orchestrated that death, but Vrih did
not necessarily buy into those rumors.  Still, it cast a shadow around
Lenak's name.  Vice-Prconsel was, most likely, the highest rank that Lenak
would achieve, no matter how good he was.  It was a matter of how long he
could hold onto what he already had.

Two of the chairs on either side of the Proconsel and Vice-Proconcil sat
Senators Hhirl and N'alae, both of whom are respected politicians, but
neither of them had any particular greatness about them.  N'alae was the
only female on the committee.  In the Senate she possessed great power that
came from great wealth.  But she wielded that power poorly.  Still, she was
a woman not easily influenced, which made her a valuable member of this
committee.  Hhirl was not nearly so powerful, but he had a wide range of
influence.  Vrih had not been able to find the source of that influence, but
it might, possibly, be Hhirl's personality, and his history with the
military.

Vrih nodded to each of the committee members as he entered, as they stood.
Then his eye caught Terrh.  Terrh was another powerful senator.  He obtained
his power from the most secret of sources, with ties to the military and to
the Tal Shiar.  There was no doubt in his mind that Terrh, at this time, was
the single most dangerous player at the table.  He had made it clear that he
was against this union with the Federation.  The question was, how far was
he willing to go to make these negotiations fail.

There was one seat still unoccupied.  It was that of the head of the Tal
Shiar. Chairman Vaebn.  The Tal Shiar had managed to stay quiet about this
affair, which was when Vrih was most cautious of them.  The Tal Shiar did
not support or detract from any Praetor.  They considered themselves a
separate entity from the government and worked only for what they considered
to be the good of the Romulan people.  Unfortunately, the question always
asked was, who was saying what was best for the Romulan people.  It should
be him, the Praetor.

Absently he checked to make certain that Ejuil was close behind.  It had not
been necessary, since his aid rarely left him unattended.  Then the Praetor
turned his attention to the visitors.  It was an interesting gathering of
beings.  Although they all seemed humanoid, he knew that they weren't all
human.  Frazier returned to her place with her people as Vrih went to the
center seat.  Once seated the door to the chamber opened once again and
Vaebn entered.

"Ah, Chairman Vaebn," Vrih said with a nod, "it's good to see that you could
be here."

Vaebn raised an eyebrow, and gave a half frown, "Is it?  Considering that I
was not informed of our guests arrival until moments ago."

"I would have assumed," Vrih added flatly, "that with all of the Tal Shiar's
resources you would have known the moment that our guests, as you put it,
arrived.  I am surprised that you did not know.  Perhaps there was a break
down in your communication system."

Vaebn knew that Vrih was no fool.  Sometimes he acted the fool, but he was
sure that it was just an act.  Finally he smiled.  "Indeed my Praetor, you
are most likely correct.  I intend to get to the bottom of this
communication issue."  With that Vaebn took his seat.

Vrih looked, once again, at his committee, and then at the Federation
delegates.  He depressed a switch that turned on all of the devices that
enhanced their safety and took a deep breath.  Then he stood.

"Delegates from the United Federation of Planets, welcome to ch'Rihan,
welcome to Romulus.  We are the Continuing Committee of our Senate, and any
and all negotiations that pass through this committee will be considered
law.  You people and ours have requested this meeting in an effort to create
a new accord, a new treaty.  A treaty that, hopefully, will dawn a new age
of peace between our two empires."

With a sweeping, welcoming gesture he continued.  "Allow me to introduce our
committee members.  Senator Terrh, Senator N'alae, and Proconsul Daanel, to
my right.  And to my left is Vice-Proconsul Lenak, Senator Hhirl and
Chairman Vaebn of the Tal Shiar.  Please rest assured that these proceedings
are safe, and your personal well beings have my guarantee.  Ambassador
Frazier, do you have anything to say before we begin?"

(reply Frazier, or any in the room)
(posted by Al Muir)

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(Romulus – Senate Building, Praetor’s Office – Ambassador Brianna Frazier –
1106)

Frazier listened to the response from the Praetor.  It was clear to her that
he was a wise man, and that he knew that whatever his personal ideals, he
would need to apease his people first and foremost.  Without them, he was
nothing but another hopefully Romulan, and she understood that fully.
Although things weren’t quite so black and white in the Federation,
popularity still held a vital role in leadership for many worlds across the
Federation.

With jest, she suggested that they return to the conference chamber,
suggesting that if they continue they would have no need for the official
negotiations as they would come an agreement right here.  It seemed the
Praetor may have taken her too literally as he responded, “I believe that
you are correct, but we would still have to convince both of our peoples to
anything that we may resolve in private”

Frazier smiled and nodded in agreement, but did not move as it was clear
that the Praetor still was not ready to move just yet.  Praetor Vrih took
that moment to tell her of the security precautions that he had arranged for
the talks.  The first was a scattering field that made communications and
transport, difficult, if not impossible.  Frazier was certain that the
diligent staff of the Hades would know about that even before she would have
chance to inform them.

The second was a little more unorthodox as far as Frazier was concerned.
“Also, I understand that many of those in Starfleet possess telepathic
abilities,” continued the Praetor with an inquisitive tone.  “My information
tells me that even you are telepathic...”

Technically, Bee knew that she was an empath, not a telepath, and although
she possessed minor telepathic abilities, it required concentration on her
part to do so.  To her it was a great distinction, but to others she could
easily see how it might not be so, so she didn’t split hairs on the matter
and allowed the Praetor to continue uninterrupted.

“...You may find it a bit disorienting to find that we have managed to find
a way to create a field that would dampen those abilities.  Please
understand that my people are quite distrustful of the Federation already.
Having telepaths, even those sworn not to use their abilities, in the
presence of some of the members of the Continuing Committee is, shall we
say, a worry.  We have removed the cause for that concern, without removing
those involved.”

At first, Frazier was surprised that such a technology was being used.
Initially, she had not thought that the Romulan’s would know such things
from them, but she realised that just as easily as she had obtaining
information on the Romulan delegates, the Romulan’s would easily have done
likewise for the Federation ones.  “I understand completely, Praetor” she
said with her chirpy smile.  “It was not our intention to gain an upper
hand, or incite a distrust.”  Frazier wasn’t entirely certain if she truly
meant the first of those.  Telepathic communication might have given them a
definite advantage.  

Finally Vrih stood and motioned to the door.  “Shall we rejoin you with your
comrades?”

Standing from her seat and allowing her bouncing curls to fall about her
should, Bree offered a brief nod.  “Yes, I’m sure they’re all wondering
where I’ve gotten to.”  Making a quick exit from the room, Frazier noticed
the honour guard fall in at her sides as they had done earlier, and together
the group made their way back toward the conference chamber.

(reply: none, any)
(posted by Dave)

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(Romulus - Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four– CCOUNS Ensign Jon
Nayati - 1111.5) 

"….If you wouldn't mind Senator, I would appreciate any favor that you could
offer me in gaining a brief audience with my Romulan counterpart for the
security of these talks, so that we may compare notes and so that I may see
to it that we conform to any rules that your security officer would impose
upon us," Baylon said.

"I am looking forward to being part of the negotiating process. It is
standard operating procedure that any new contact situation like this must
involve a ship's counselor," said Jon.

(Reply Terrh, Tom Jackson, Any others present) 

"Your consideration is much appreciated," replied Lt. Trinin.
Senator Terrh indicated his desire to take his place at the table and so
Baylon stepped aside respectfully. 

After the Senator indicated his desire to sit at the table, Jon stepped back
deferentially to allow him to sit where he wished.
 
Once the Senator was seated, the doors to the chamber opened again and Jon
immediately recognized the Proconsul and the Vice Proconsul, as well as two
other senators. Jon had seen limited dossiers on them from Baylon Trinin. 
There wasn't any time or energy wasted; as shortly after entering the room
the Proconsul spoke. 

"Terrh..." started Proconsul Daanel,  "...I see you wasted no time in coming
to greet our guests." 

Here was the second most powerful man in the entire Romulan Empire. And
trailing only slightly behind him was the third.

Terrh flashed a smile back at Daanel, then looked at the Federation people
and offered, "May I introduce Proconsul Daanel, and Vice-Proconsul Lenak."

::I will step back and due to rank and importance be letting you and the
senior staff address the Romulans first:: Jon tightly sent to Brianna
Frazier. He was concerned about speaking out of turn and following the rules
of military courtesy and diplomacy. ~After all the Romulans are primarily a
militaristic government. ~

(Reply Brianna Frazier, Tom Jackson, Any others present) 
(Posted by Jim McCrary)

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(Romulus - Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – CCOUNS Ensign Jon
Nayati (jg) – 1112.5)

Even as he thought spoke to Ambassador Frazier, Jon realized something was
wrong with his telepathy. Jon could feel that his telepathic messages were
being inhibited and he wondered what was causing it. ~I talked to Baylon
Trinin telepathically a few moments ago. But I can't speak to Brianna
Frazier now. ~

Jon kept his face impassive, but his mind was racing. The effect could only
be due to one or two causes. A telepathic mind stronger than his or some
sort of technological device was being used to jam or scatter or scatter
their telepathy. Jon rejected the former due to the fact that he did not
sense any telepathic intrusion. Given the technological level of the
Romulans, they could have engineered some device to do this.

Since telepathy was being negated, Jon wondered what else was negated as
well. Jon took some comfort from the fact that he was still able to see and
read auras. He could see that Senator Terrh's aura remained the same.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Jim McCrary)
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(Romulus - Senate Building- Conference Chamber Four– A/COPS - Lt. Tom
Jackson - 1113) 

Tom complimented Senator Terrh on the architecture of the RSE - Terrh
replied "Well there is no shortage of such architecture throughout our great
Capitol District.  I am certain there will be plenty of time for such
things, during your stay.”

"I hope so Senator" Tom replied.

Baylon spoke next and asked if possible to meet his Romulan counterpart. 

Senator Terrh was considering this request.

Terrh took a seat at the table - the dance was about to begin it seemed.

Soon the Proconsul and Vice Proconsul entered the chamber. From his
briefings, Tom realized these were the second and third most powerful
Romulans.

Introductions were made shortly - wasting neither time or energy.

"Proconsul Daanel and Vice Proconsul Lenak, I am Lt Tom Jackson" Tom said as
he rose and greeted the VIP's.

(reply Proconsul, Vice Proconsul)
 
Jackson resumed his seat and watched the others - Baylon's advice about
watching and listening was proving to be good advice.

(reply: any present)
(posted by: Bill West)

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(Romulus – Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – Senator Terrh – 1114)

No sooner had he sat down, more doors opened, this time to the back of the
chamber.  He was not surprised to see a red hair female that he assumed to
be the Federation Ambassador, emerge from the opening, following closely by
Praetor himself.  As they both approached their designated seats, Terrh
watched them carefully.  The Federation woman didn’t seem fazed by the
committee, who were now seated in their semi-circular fashion before the
federation positions. He regarded her carefully, looking for a sign of
weakness, but alas, he saw none at first glance and it would seem he would
need to work harder to find something he could use.

He noted how Praetor entered and acknowledged each of the committee members
in turn, at least until it came to Terrh.  Instead, Praetor gave a simple
look of indifference, before moving to his seat at the centre of the Romulan
position.  As he glanced around at those that were present, he noticed that
one member of the committee was not yet present.  Senator Bretak had always
been a great supporter or Terrh, and as a result he was looking forward to
seeing his friend be present at the talks.  However, it was most unlike him
to be late, and Terrh couldn’t help but be a little concerned.

Terrh cleared his throat and watched as Ejuil hovered nearby.  ~Ah, does
that pest never rest?~ He was always around, watching, waiting, and Terrh
always felt like he needed to watch himself when the assistant was around.
It was almost as if, should he say one wrong word then he would find himself
flung off the committee and his name discredited for his trouble.  No, he
always needed to be careful around Ejuil.

Just then, the doors opened one more time.  ~At last~ thought Terrh, looking
up in the hopes of seeing his one ally on the committee, Bretak.  As a
Romulan entered, Terrh’s heart beat faster.  It was not Bretak, his friend,
but none other than Chairman Vaebn – leader of the Tal Shiar, the very
organisation that he had held strong ties with since the start of his
political career.

 “Ah, Chairman Vaebn,” came the commanding voice of Praetor from nearby.
“It's good to see that you could be here.”  The Praetor seemed to have
expected Vaebn to be present, which was clearly news to Terrh.  Terrh knew
full well that Vaebn had a keen interest in these talks, but to his
knowledge Terrh was supposed to be the eyes and ears of this operation.

Chairman Vaebn seemed distinctly unimpressed as he answered Praetor.  It
appeared that like Terrh, Vaebn had not been informed of the delegate’s
arrival until last minute.  Terrh was clearly more prepared for the arrival,
given that he had still managed to be the first one to arrive.  Vaebn, with
of his vast resources and staff, was still far less prepared than a mere
Senator.  At that he had to smile, knowing that he had gotten the first of
many one-ups on the Tal Shiar leader.

Praetor and Vaebn exchanged a few more choice comments before the Chairman
settled into the final seat.  He offered only a brief glance toward Terrh,
followed by a sly smile, before turning his attention squarely on the
Federation delegates.  Finally, Praetor leaned forward in his seat,
shuffling to its edge before beginning to speak.

“Delegates from the United Federation of Planets, welcome to ch'Rihan,
welcome to Romulus.  We are the Continuing Committee of our Senate, and any
and all negotiations that pass through this committee will be considered
law.  You people and ours have requested this meeting in an effort to create
a new accord, a new treaty.  A treaty that, hopefully, will dawn a new age
of peace between our two empires.”

With a sweeping, welcoming gesture he continued.  “Allow me to introduce our
committee members.  Senator Terrh, Senator N'alae, and Proconsul Daanel, to
my right.  And to my left is Vice-Proconsul Lenak, Senator Hhirl and
Chairman Vaebn of the Tal Shiar.  Please rest assured that these proceedings
are safe, and your personal well beings have my guarantee.  Ambassador
Frazier, do you have anything to say before we begin?”

~Personal guarantee~ Terrh thought to himself, wondering how the Federation
would hold him to that vow should anything...unfortunate happen to the
group.  Rather than make comment, he decided to wait eagerly for the female
Ambassador to speak.

(reply: Frazier, any)
(posted by Dave)

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(Romulus - Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – CCOUNS Ensign Jon
Nayati – 1114.5)

Jon scarcely had time to acclimate himself to having his thought speaking
abilities blocked when the striking presences of the Romulan Praetor and
Ambassador Frazier swept into the spacious conference room.

Ambassador Frazier's facial expression and aura were indicative of
enthusiasm and optimistic confidence, emotions that Jon really didn't share
at the moment. 
Praetor Vrih's aura and physical tells were a different story all together.
With professional ease, Jon noted Vrih's eyes sweep across the faces of his
own delegates, his aura changing dramatically as his gaze briefly stopped on
each member of his own senate.  The Praetor's most favorable reaction was to
Proconsul Daanel, with other reactions being mixed in regard to Proconsul
Lenak and Senators Hhirl and N'alae. Then there was Senator Terrh, whose Tal
Shiar connection registered noticeable concern and anxiety in Praetor's
aura. 

~If the Praetor's nervous Great Spirit, how nervous should we be?~ Jon
wondered, trying not to bite his lower lip. 

Jon noted that Praetor Vrih made a quick and seemingly nervous check around
the room and, from the change in his aura, was quiet relieved to find that
Senatorial Aide Ejuil still there. Clearly the Praetor drew some inner
strength from Ejuil's continued presence. ~Perhaps Aide Ejuil is some sort
of bodyguard or personal spy for Praetor Vrih,~ Jon wondered. Jon observed
Terrh squirm a little as the Tal Shiar Senator noticed the Praetor's gaze
fall on Ejuil. ~Seemingly there are things going on with Romulans that we do
not understand. This is really a confused house we're playing too, Great
Spirit. Hopefully it is not the last play we ever have, Grandfather of All
Spirits. ~

(Reply any)
(Posted by Jim McCrary)

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(Romulus – Senate Building, Conference Chamber Four – Ambassador Brianna
Frazier – 1115)

As Bree approached the doors to the conference chamber, Bree noticed that
the ornate carving on the pillars adorned the archways and adjoining
pillars, and not just the decorative fixtures of the rooms.  This truly was
a structure built for its grandeur, and Bree was a little saddened that
their own buildings and structures of the federation council and president
where built more for function and necessity, than for history and culture.
It was one thing that they might learn from this whole experience that she
would welcome.

The doors were opened by the guarding centurions, and Bree stepped over the
threshold and into the chamber she was hit with a wall of mixed emotions
that at first she was not sure how to cope with.  Instantly she held up her
mental shielding to enable her to decipher what was from where and for what
reason, and had she the time to do so, it might have interested her and even
been an advantage to her.  As it was, she had more to think about, and if
the Praetor had been true to his word, she wouldn’t have the use of her
natural senses for much longer anyway.

As she moved to her seat offering a comforting nod toward the rest of her
team, she noticed that the Romulans had all taken their positions.  Each was
dressed in elaborate robes that portrayed both their wealth and status.
Bree couldn’t help but think how different things were in Romulan culture,
such a far cry from the halls of the Federation embassies and Council
chambers on earth.

As she settled to her seat, another Romulan made his entrance.  Chairman
Vaebn, the well known leader of the Tal Shiar.  According to the research
Bree had gathered on their way to Romulus, Vaebn was definitely against the
treaty with the Federation.  In fact, there was likely many different things
going on in the background that they would never be made aware of.  It was
al very cloak and dagger, and that concerned Bree greatly.  Especially
considering Senator Terrh also seemed to be present.  She had thought that
he was Vaebn’s man on the inside.  With the two of them present, Bree was
forced to wonder what was really going on with the Romulan side of these
politics. 

As Bree watched with fascination at the interaction between Vrih and Vaebn,
Vrih soon made his opening speech.  “Delegates from the United Federation of
Planets, welcome to ch'Rihan, welcome to Romulus.  We are the Continuing
Committee of our Senate, and any and all negotiations that pass through this
committee will be considered law.  You people and ours have requested this
meeting in an effort to create a new accord, a new treaty.  A treaty that,
hopefully, will dawn a new age of peace between our two empires.”

"Allow me to introduce our committee members.  Senator Terrh, Senator
N'alae, and Proconsul Daanel, to my right.  And to my left is Vice-Proconsul
Lenak, Senator Hhirl and Chairman Vaebn of the Tal Shiar.  Please rest
assured that these proceedings are safe, and your personal well beings have
my guarantee.  Ambassador Frazier, do you have anything to say before we
begin?”

Frazier looked at the colleagues to her side.  Bolstered by their smiles and
looks of confidence, she stood up to address the Romulan delegates.  Her red
curls glistened in the light, and with a warm smile she looked to the
Praetor and began to speak.  “Let me introduce my own people.”  Indicated to
the seats on her right she said, “Here are Envoy’s Paris Kolar and Raizel
Grem,” and then turning slightly to her other side, “And this is Tom Jackson
and Jon Nayati, temporary attachés to Romulus from Starfleet.”  Frazier felt
it better to give them both a title of diplomacy, than refer to them simply
as crewmen from the ship.

“I’d like to say what a great honour it is for us to be here.  Our very
presence here is a beacon of hope for both our empires, and out of that hope
I am sure we can forge an agreement that will bolster a lasting peace
throughout our two quadrants.”

Already, she began to feel the emotions of those around her dissipate into
nothing.  She only assumed that the security measures that Vrih had
mentioned were now in operation.  Before taking her seat, she looked around
at Baylon Trinin and his security officers.  “Thank you for your escort
Lieutenant, however, I believe we are in good company here.  I’m certain
that our hosts would not object if you waited outside, nearby.”

(reply: Trinin, Vrih, any)
(posted by Dave)

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(Romulus - Senate Conference Chamber - CSEC- Lt. Baylon Trinin - 1118) 

Baylon sat quietly listening to the words as they passed between the head of
the Tal'Shair and the Praetor. 

It was clear that there was friction between the two Romulans and Baylon
took a keen interest in catching the little details that might prove
valuable to him later, should the need arise.

There was a slight humming headache beginning to form behind his eyes. It
was a slow pulsing pain that made it a little difficult to concentrate on
reading the emotional cues that the individuals in the room must be
providing. It was almost as if a static hiss was somewhere situation just
behind him, drawing him inexorably to itself rather than to the task at hand
and so Baylon relaxed his concentration somewhat and decided to just focus
on not showing any discomfort from the aching that hid itself behind his
eyes.

Some time had passed before the praetor was ready to begin things in
earnest. He adjusted a few things at the controls near his position and
suddenly the entire mental world of the room went black.

At first, Baylon almost panicked. As a Betazed, there was always background
noises that you detected, even when your weren't trying to. partially formed
snippets of thoughts or the occasional impression of an emotional state from
another person.

Only one time in Baylon's life had he ever experienced the complete
emptiness of mental silence. That was during his time hiding in a nebula
from a Doentiz ship, light-years away from anyone else.

Now he was experiencing it again and it was unnerving when he knew that
there were people here that should be 'leaking' something, that he would
instinctively pick-up on.

The Praetor had introduced the members of the Continuing Committee. Baylon
knew who they were already, so he hadn't missed much. Realizing he may be
staring a little awkwardly, he adjusted his seating and neutralized the look
on his face to something more general.

Ambassador Frazier stood and addressed the delegates of the Romulan Star
Empire. She made a grand opening speech and introduced the members of the
delegation, then much to his surprise, spoke directly to Baylon.

"Thank you for your escort Lieutenant, however, I believe we are in good
company here.  I'm certain that our hosts would not object if you waited
outside, nearby." 

To say that he had not considered the possibility that he would be ejected
from the proceedings would have been false. He had however expected it to
come from the Romulans rather than the Federation Ambassador.

He paused for only a second, then stood up slowly and straightened his
uniform tunic. 

"Of course Ambassador." he replied despite the fact that he was thinking
something along the lines of ~Are you out of your mind, woman?~

He turned towards the continuing committee, "I humbly request your leave for
permission for myself and my security officers to retire elsewhere," he said
in an attempt to be diplomatic.  Regardless of what Frazier may think, this
was Romulus and Baylon and his people were not about to leave unless he was
granted permission to do so by the Praetor and/or members of the Continuing
Committee.

(reply Any Committee member, Romulan or Praetor) 

Baylon nodded and followed the Centurion from the room, the two Hades
security personnel following closely behind him.  Like him, they felt that
they had been robbed in some manner of their participation in the historic
events that were underway in the chamber they just left.

(Romulus - Senate Waiting Area - CSEC- Lt. Baylon Trinin - 1125) 

The room that they were shown into was at least three rooms separated from
the Conference Chamber, and in the grand architectural style of the
remainder of the Senate building, they were large rooms.

It was with a detached interest that Baylon realized somewhere through the
second of the three rooms they traveled through that his headache had
receded into nothingness and that he was once again picking up little odd
snippets of disassociated thoughts and emotions- mostly from the other two
members of his own security detail.

~Maybe Frazier knew something I didn't?~ he wondered as the Uhlan in the
room greeted them. 

"Welcome Lieutenant Trinin, Ensigns Carter and Monroe. I welcome you on
behalf of the Romulan Empire. I am Uhlan Nuvana and will be here to see to
any needs that you may have. Please sit comfortably while you wait. may I
get you any refreshments?" She asked in a very pleasant tone.

"Thank you for the warm welcome." Baylon replied. "I do not require anything
at this time, Uhlan Nuvana." 

he turned to his two security men, "Anything for you gentlemen?" he asked
them. 

"No thank you," Carter replied. 

"Nothing for me thanks," Monroe added. 

The Romulan smiled pleasantly and said, "very well. Should that change
please advise me at once. in the meantime, feel free to make yourselves
comfortable. I only ask that you do not leave this room for your own
safety."

~Now that was a poorly veiled, although understandable, threat.~ Baylon
considered then replied, "Thank you Nuvana. We will do so at once. May I
inquire if it is possible to communicate with the Hades while we wait?"

"No you may feel free to do so." She replied. 

~but know that we are monitoring you,~ Baylon added to himself as if
completing her thought. 

"Thank you." 

The Uhlan turned and moved to sit at a comfortable looking spot near the
only door to the room. 

Baylon decided that there was no time like the present and decided to tap
his commbadge. 

"Trinin to Hades." he said. 

(reply Hades, Any)
(posted by Daniel Greene) 

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Mission: Tribuo Senatus 
Day 8 
Stardate: 2408.01.06
 
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Norman Harper - Day 8- 1139)
 
Norm watched with a smile as she shoveled the second fork-full of salad into
her mouth. He had never seen someone so ennamorred with it before.
 
"I am very impressed with this dish, Harper. It is delicious." she said
around her food.
 
Norm smiled at her in return. "Now," he laughed, "you would like it more if
I had made it. I used to work at a restaurant."
 
(reply S'Tarleya)
(posted by Justine)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Uhlan S'Tarleya - 1140) 

Norm smiled at her in return. "Now," he laughed, "you would like it more if
I had made it. I used to work at a restaurant."

"In a restaurant?" she asked, suddenly very interested in the Human she saw
sitting before her. "My family owns a dining establishment also. I worked
there in the kitchens during my adolescence before I took my Government
Service Exams." She added smiling.

"My mother wanted more for me other than being a proprietor of a meager
restaurant. I agreed with her, if only because of the way that I saw the
hard work caused her to age poorly. It and a desire for security and
influence was the reason I joined the Military.  My determination alone has
allowed me to reach the rank of Uhlan. Was it something similar for you,
then?" she asked.

(reply Harper) 
(posted by Daniel Greene)  

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Mission: Tribuo Senatus 
Day 8 
Stardate: 2408.01.06 
 
(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Norman Harper - 1141) 
 
In a restaurant?" she asked, suddenly sounding very interested, "My family
owns a dining establishment also. I worked there in the kitchens during my
adolescence before I took my Government Service Exams." She added smiling.
 
"My mother wanted more for me other than being a proprietor of a meager
restaurant. I agreed with her, if only because of the way that I saw the
hard work caused her to age poorly. It and a desire for security and
influence was the reason I joined the Military.  My determination alone has
allowed me to reach the rank of Uhlan. Was it something similar for you,
then?" 
 
Norm smiled and shook his head. "Not really. My mother died when I was 16.
And I lived with my best friend and his parents until I was old enough to
get my own place. Anyway, My mother left me her boat, see, and I loved to
tinker with it, but I needed some extra money in my pocket to" he
gesticulated with his hands, "buy parts, buy gas, stock the refigerator.
Y'know. 
 
"I worked at the local hamburger joint. I worked in the kitchen and
occasionally took a few orders when we were short on people."
 
He took a moment to shovel more food into his mouth. Once he swallowed, he
continued, "I, without going too much into my background, joined starfleet
because it was a way to get myself in check. Though, I must say Al's
Hamburgers helped a lot with that too."
 
(reply S'Tarleya)
 
"But, I can't believe you worked in a restaurant and never had a salad," he
teased.
 
(reply S'Tarleya)
(posted by Justine)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Uhlan S'Tarleya - 1142) 

He took a moment to shovel more food into his mouth. Once he swallowed, he
continued, "I, without going too much into my background, joined Starfleet
because it was a way to get myself in check. Though, I must say Al's
Hamburgers helped a lot with that too."

"In a way then, Norman Harper, we are not so different, you and I, despite
the fact that we come from two very different cultures. I am a bit confused
about some of the words you used, but I will reference them later, when
there is more time."

"But, I can't believe you worked in a restaurant and never had a salad," he
teased. 

"This," she said gesturing to the bed of greens still remaining on her
plate. " sort of food does not exist on Romulus. We rarely eat vegetables
raw, we do of course use sauces and spices, and besides I have never seen
vegetables that look anything like these here. I think that this is a dish
unique to Earth. But I assure you I will have a new out look on ways to
prepare vegetables from this day forward."

She took a few more bites of her salad and smiled. 

"You know I have only met a couple of humans before you, they were very
stoic, and very unpleasant, and so I was leery of being here, as I thought
it would be a disappointment. I am very pleased that I was  wrong and that
you are so very interesting."

(reply Norman) 
(posted by Daniel Greene)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward – ACSO Ensign Shayhiloosh – 1143.5)

The First Officer shook his head, then tried to speak in a reassuring tone.
"We must not be quick to judge their entire people on the opinions of just a
few." He glanced back toward S'Tarleya and then spoke again. "I doubt she
holds much sway where it counts." Cmdr Lemar looked up at Shayhiloosh.
"Commander Rhian and Centurion Mavus both seem to be eager for these talks
to succeed." As he took a sip from his mug he said, "And don't forget we
have the support of the most powerful Romulan of all, Praetor Vrih."


"We can hope that the support of the Praetor Vrih will be enough to help
sway the talks toward a lasting peace between the Federation and the Romulan
Empire," answered Shayhiloosh, but s/he was still concerned.

"I am curious though," said Cmdr Lemar with interest.  "These negative
emotions you speak of from the Dreamplane; are you able to see where they
come from?  I'm curious as to how they might manifest themselves on the
Dreamplane." 

"It might be in our best interests, Sir to not let the Romulans know of the
Dreamplane, or of the existence of Shureshlee," said Shayhiloosh softly,
bending a branch toward Jonas Lemar and whispering quietly only though that
branch's leaf bladders. "I too am curious as to how they things may manifest
there as well while we are in Romulan space. Shureshlee and I have been
quietly keeping watch there. Whatever happens here in the physical world is
mirrored and represented in some way on the Dreamplane." 

"While I was on the Boudicca, I had some curious experiences when we were
attacked and boarded," whispered Shayhiloosh. "I believe that I had enhanced
abilities due to my encounter with a small life form, a pet Pelluvian Howler
that was owned by one of the crew. Somehow while on the Dreamplane, it
enhanced my ability to interact with the physical world while I was there.
But without contact with the creature, the effect faded and did not last. At
this point much of what we can do is limited to what we observe there. Were
there more Arborians on this ship and there on the Dreamplane with us, it
might be very different indeed."

(Reply Jonas Lemar)

"It might be possible for those who have telepathic skills to enter the
Dreamplane, but it can be a dangerous place if they do not have their
emotions under control and have not already faced their own inner fears,"
replied Shayhiloosh. 

(Reply Jonas Lemar)
(Posted by Sheila Mayer)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – Sub-Commander Lhaes – 1145)

As Lhaes spoke, he was all too aware that this federation officer did not
share all, if any of his views.  That didn’t really matter.  He enjoyed
telling his tale all the same, just as he always enjoyed telling people of
his own victories, and those of the empire.  So as he drew his tale to a
close and asked the tactical officer if she had ever used disruptor
technology as a weapon, he was surprised at her answer.

“No Sir, I have never used a real disruptor, only a holo-simulated one
during training scenarios.”  She replied, taking a sip of her drink.  

~Never used one?~ thought Lhaes with a surprise which he managed to keep off
his face.  He managed an intuitive raise of an eyebrow instead.  ~What sort
of tactical officer does not seek to use all of the available technology at
her disposal, in order to grant herself that tactical advantage?~  He was
indeed puzzled by this clear sign of weakness on behalf of this Federation.
With such blundering errors, were they truly worthy of peace with an empire
such as theirs?

“Do you have holodecks on your ships?  Or is that considered a waste of
space?” The tactical officer appeared to change the subject, however her
tone held an air of sarcasm that Lhaes didn’t altogether appreciate.  Was
she taunting him, trying to cause an aggressive response?

So far Lhaes had kept his cool, and even kept the majority of comments to
himself.  He did this not because he was a great supporter of these talks,
but because his commanding officer had ordered it.  So rather than rise to
the bait, Lhaes decided to answer.  “We do have holographic chambers
designed for training exercises...” he started, recalling that he had not
used one for at least a week – he as well overdue.  “...but they are not
used for recreation, like the majority of yours.”

“I personally abhor the idea of indulgence in ‘fantasy’ and ‘fiction’
onboard a warship.”  Lhaes’s own voice took on a low tone of disapproval as
he spoke, “I personally think it is a waste of resources, and only invites a
lack of order and discipline.  My Centurions are focused at all times, and
have proved to be superior in many ways to other ship security forces.”
Lhaes was clearly bragging, goading the female tactical officer to show some
kind of fire that he might be able to respect.

(reply: Ammon IYW)

Just then, Lhaes clearly heard the commander clearing his throat, which was
a signal for him to fall in at his side.  With a smile and a nod, Lhaes
stood up and moved away from the table, following closely by Uhlan
S’Tarleya.  As soon as they were out of earshot, Lhaes turned to S’Tarleya
and said, “And interesting pair, wouldn’t you agree?”

(reply: S’Tarleya, Ammon IYW, any)
(posted by Dave)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - Crewman Denise Lebranski - 1145)

"Not at all, Yeoman Lebranski. Female Horta are egg layers. I was merely
being humorous as I happen to be male," said Maraht. 

Seeing that the officer was unfazed, Denise couldn't resist continuing to
tease. "Well, I'll take your word for it sir, I'm not going to try and
check."

(Reply Maraht)

He also didn't seem much bothered by having been branded by her lipstick. "I
would prefer to wear it proudly as a badge of honor, since it is from you,
but I suppose we should remove it," said Maraht cheerfully. "Lip color on a
Horta is not standard issue. Besides, we can't set a bad example in front of
the Romulans." Reaching out he very gently patted her hand with his main
phalange. "I believe it is a typed of colored grease, isn't it? Do you have
something we could remove it with?" asked Maraht.

 "I'm not sure what it's made from, but I do have just the thing." She
unsealed the front of the jacket that was the outer shell of the standard
uniform, dipped the corner in her water and bent over to rub the lipstick
off the patient Horta. A bit of a smear before she got the remnants off, but
hopefully he wouldn't give her a telling off for lack of artistry.

Maraht seemed to realize something. "You kissed me after I fixed the stasis
field. That was before I talked to Centurion Mavus. Oh my, there's no
telling what impression I may have given. She might think of me as some sort
of a cross dressing gender confused foolish lump of rock. But I guess there
is nothing I can do about it now. At least I know what I am even if she
might be puzzled." Maraht's main phalange waved in the air again. He could
not restrain his laughter.

"If anyone asks, it's the Horta paint of peace. You wear it to hope that
it's the only colour spilled between two people." Denise said, patting
Maraht's shell.

(Reply Maraht)

"Sir, I'm the Captain's Yeoman," she said with mock-offense, standing up
straight, "I deal with HQ, bureaucracy and politicians on a daily basis. I
*excel* at the art of bull----, it's a gift." 

(Reply Maraht.)
(Posted by Lorna)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - CTAC Lt. Ammon Ranae - 1146)

As Lhaes drew his tale to a close, he asked Ranae if she had ever used
disruptor technology as a weapon and she truthfully told him that she had
only ever used a holo-simulated one during training scenarios.

One of his eyebrows rose quite Vulcan-like and she guessed her reply had not
bee what he'd expected.  She watched his features and body language closely,
getting the distinct impression that he did not approve.

~Like I care.~  She thought.  ~Just because I've never used a real disruptor
does not mean I don't know how.~  She took another sip of her drink and
asked him if they had holodecks on their ships, and remembering having
overheard one of the Romulans remark on so much waste of space on the Hades,
she added. 

"...Or is that considered a waste of space?"  She couldn't help leech a hint
of sarcasm into her tone, for she found these Romulans just a little too
arrogant for her liking, having just listened to the man brag about killing
a Yridian captain.

Something, an emotion, flickered across his features and for a second Ranae
thought he was going to  show anger, but instead his face became calm and he
replied that they did have holographic chambers designed for training
exercises, but they weren't used for recreation.

"...like the majority of yours."  He stated, and then went on to tell her
how he  personally abhorred the idea of indulgence in 'fantasy' and
'fiction' onboard a warship."  Now there was a tone of disapproval as Lhaes
spoke, "I personally think it is a waste of resources, and only invites a
lack of order and discipline.  My Centurions are focused at all times, and
have proved to be superior in many ways to other ship security forces." 

Lhaes was obviously bragging again but this time there was an edge to his
tone, and Ranae realized that the man was deliberately goading her.  
Why?  She felt her own anger rising, how she disliked conceited, arrogant
egotistical people like him and his comrades, who thought everything they
did was the best way.

Ranae's lips thinned, and beneath the table her other hand fisted, how she
would enjoy smashing some of that disapproval down his throat, but she
fought down the anger remembering something her father had told her long
ago, when she'd come home from school after a particularly rough time with
the bullies that taunted her and her brother.

~ Do not let your enemies know your strengths.  Rather you show them
weakness, and when they are sure you are easily defeated, then you show them
your true strength. ~

The CTAC stared at Lhaes for a second before she spoke.  "Fantasy and
fiction both have their places, even on a warship, Sub-Commander.  All work
and no play is bad for moral and it wouldn't do for us all to be the same."
~Arrogant jack asses! ~

 With a smile and a nod, Lhaes stood up and moved away from the table,
following closely by the female Romulan who had been talking to Norm.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Ranae waited for them to get out of earshot then
leaned closer to Harper.

"What a donkey's arse!"  She told Norm in a very low tone,  "what was yours
like?"

(reply Harper)

"Well they're all like that Sub-Commander, I don't expect these talks to go
to well."
 
~And perhaps that will be for the best.~

(reply: Harper)
(posted by Sal)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward – COPS Lt. Maraht – 1146.5)

"I am glad that you are not going to ascertain my gender for yourself
Yeoman. I feel comforted that you will not be conducting a detailed physical
examination of my person in public," said Maraht with more humorous wit
while waving his main phalange.

When the clever Yeoman suggested that Maraht explain that the red mark was
what Maraht wore to show his hope for peace between the Federation and the
Romulans, he nearly cracked his carapace from laughter with his phalange. It
nearly broke off as hard as he was waving it. "I might do that but it would
be a lie and I am not generally given to outright lies. But it was on my
carapace and I do really want peace so I suppose it might be true, after a
fashion." 

"Sir, I'm the Captain's Yeoman," said Yeoman Lebranski with mock-offense,
standing up straight, "I deal with HQ, bureaucracy and politicians on a
daily basis. I *excel* at the art of bull----, it's a gift."

"Be careful Yeoman. There are those that might call that a curse," Maraht
teased back. "I want to go speak to Lt. Ammon Ranae and see how she is doing
with the Romulans. My duties as Chief of Operations have been keeping me
much busier of late and I haven't gotten to spend as much time with her as I
might like." 

(Reply Yeoman Lebranski IYW)

Maraht rumbled off to see his old friend. He had missed her friendship
personally and knew she had been busy too, what with recent events on the
ship.
Maraht did not want to approach Lt. Ammon until after the Romulan she was
speaking to had moved off. He waited patiently, speaking with others nearby.

(Reply Yeoman Lebranski IYW, Any)
(Posted by Sheila Mayer)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – Sub-Commander Lhaes – 1148)

As Lhaes approached Commander Rhian, he noticed that Centurion Mavus had
done likewise.  Standing a little to the right of the group, Lhaes overheard
the commander say something about a prior engagement that he had to attend
to.  He had offered their group a tour of the ship, guided by Ensign T’Sol.
As Lhaes looked over to the officer in question, he could clearly see that
T’Sol appeared to be Vulcan.

“It should be a rather unique tour,” said T’Sol in a typical Vulcan way.

~A Vulcan tour...~ thought Lhaes, uncertain of whether it would truly be
interesting, or whether they might get bored to death with details and logic
on their way.  Either way, Lhaes intended to make the most this, so would be
all ears and eyes for the duration.

Just before the federation commander made his exit, he said “I’ll join you
as soon as I am able” and then quick made his way out of the room.

(reply: Rhian IYW)

T’Sol glanced only briefly at the rest of their small group, but then
focused her eyes on Rhian.  “In an attempt to make your visit memorable, I
would like to know what parts of the ship you would like to tour.”

Hoping that Rhian wouldn’t take his comments as out of turn, he quickly
piped up with, “I would be very interested in looking around your
Engineering section.” That may have seemed a little bit of a strange, given
that he was Chief of Security, but he knew full well that an engine room was
the key to a ships day-to-day running.  It was a vital part of a ship like
this, and he was very interested to see how it was run.

(reply: T’Sol, Rhian, Mavus, S’Tarleya)
(posted by Dave)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - 10 Forward - Commander Rhian - 1148) 

Rhian hadn't known how to respond to the scientist's question to describe
himself as "typical Romulan.  After all, he was a Romulan, and had all of
the physical characteristics of a typical Romulan.  He was of average
height, and had been told by some that he was moderately handsome.  He had
always considered himself to be average.  He knew that he was brighter than
most, but he usually didn't like to point that out, unless someone deemed to
disagree with him in matters of strategy.  

However, Rhian realized that McKenzie was, most likely, talking about
attitude and and behavior.  In this matter Rhian had always considered
everyone to be an individual, and had trouble typifying what an "average
Romulan" would be like.  

"Tell me, Assitant Chief Science Officer Kenneth McKenzie, what would you
consider to be an average Romulan?"

(reply McKenzie)

At that moment Lemar came up to the pair and interrupted.   "I apologize,
but I've been called away temporarily. When you and your people are ready,
Ensign T'Sol here is going to give you an escorted guide of our ship."

Rhian looked over at the Vulcan female that Lemar had indicated.  He had
always considered Vulcan security to be a contradiction in terms.  However,
at least this one was pleasing to the eye.  She was the long gangly thing
that most Vulcan females tended to be.  However, he could also denote an air
of disapproval from her.  Perhaps wisely so.  Still, he was amazed to get
even a hint of emotion from a Vulcan.

"It should be a rather unique tour." T'Sol replied. 

"Indeed," Rhian replied, "this is a rather unique ship.  I look forward to
seeing more of it."

 "I'll join you as soon as I am able,"  Lemar added.  Then he turned and
left. 

Rhian looked around the room for his people.  Once he got eye contact he
nodded and cleared his throat.  The others got the message and made their
way to him.

This T'Sol turned and looked at Rhian.  "In an attempt to make your visit
memorable, I would like to know what parts of the ship you would like to
tour." She said in her usual Vulcan tone.

Rhian thought about this for a moment.  He contemplated just doing a bottom
up tour, hopefully winding up on the bridge.  But as he thought it was Lhaes
who spoke.

"I would be very interested in looking around your Engineering section." he
said. 

~Lhaes! ~  It would figure.  There would be disciplinary action involved
later.  Rhian shot him a glance to show that the sub-commander had just over
stepped his bounds.  However Rhian refused to rebuke the officer in front of
the Federationists.  Such a direct line to one of the ships more vital
sections was not what he would have suggested.  He would want them to be
more comfortable before getting access to such an area.  In that way they
may have learned more.  Unfortunately, it was too late.  

T'Sol nodded. "Of course, we will begin our tour there as you've requested. 

She was very accommodating for a Vulcan.  Of course, he was a little
surprised, since he had pretty much asked to look at the heart of the
vessel.  Still, this was supposed to be a peace mission to garner trust.
Even still, Rhian seriously doubted that they were about to be lead through
the main engineering section.  Which was fine since this was not a tour to
gather intelligence.  He doubted that they would learn anything technical
that the Romulan intelligence services had not already discovered.  This was
to see the limits of their willingness to trust.

"If you will accompany me, we will head that direction," the Vulcan said
flatly.  "Along the way I will be glad to answer any questions that you may
have, but I do not wish to bore you with dry statistics or a prepared
speech." 

Rhian almost smiled as he followed her out of the lounge, "I seriously doubt
that anything you had to say, prepared or otherwise, would be considered
boring.  After all, I have spent an entire week with our own admiralty."

The others fell in behind Rhian, and he noticed that two of the Hades
security men fell in behind the group.   ~So much for complete trust. ~

(reply any other)

(USS Hades - Deck 10- Hades Section, Engineering Control- Commander Rhian -
1157) 

The first thing that struck Rhian as odd, as the room lit up, was that the
room was devoid of any staff.  He figured that this must be an auxiliary
station while the ship was still in one piece.   He wondered how many people
manned the station when the ship was in tri-vector mode.  It was not as
large as he had anticipated.  It would have been interesting to talk with
some of the engineers that worked in the area.  Still, T'Sol was willing to
give up the information that they already had.  The information regarding
the tri-vector mode was not new, nor was it a surprise to, really, to see it
in stand-by mode when not needed.

"You may feel free to look around this compartment," T'Sol offered, with a
caveat, "you will find however that the consoles are completely secured as
are the critical areas of the drive system. I will be glad to answer any
general questions that you may have concerning the engineering systems that
you see here."

S'Tarleva was the first to speak as Rhian wandered through the room, looking
at the configuration of the consoles.  ~Similar, but different. ~

"Is this warp system the same as those found in the other sections of the
ship?" Uhlan S'Tarleya asked. 

"No," T'Sol answered, "There are two different types of warp core utilized
in the Prometheus class design. Although very similar in functionality,
their power output varies somewhat. This is due to the differing power
requirements of the individual sections ship in which they are located."

"Intriguing," Rhian said, "are the two types of warp cores compatible?  If
they brought this core on line while still attached to the ship, would it
increase the power output of the main engines?"

(reply T'Sol)
(posted by Al Muir)

---------------------------------------------------------------------
(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – Security Officer T'Sol– 1149) 

Commander Rhian cleared his voice in what T'Sol could only believe to be a
well rehearsed and practiced manner. Almost immediately the other two
Romulan Officers rose from their seats and joined their Commanding Officer
and T'Sol.

Once they were all assembled, She had asked for a preference of the areas
that the Romulans would prefer to view. She was not surprised when it was
the Tactical Officer Lhaes that spoke up first.

“I would be very interested in looking around your Engineering section.” he
said, clearly interested in the heart of the ship.

T'Sol nodded. "Of course, we will begin our tour there as you've requested. 
The Vulcan security officer had no intention of taking the Romulan visitors
to the actual Main Engineering section. There was just too much of a chance
that they would see some detail while an engineer worked diligently at their
job that could jeopardize the ship. Instead, she could satisfy the
requirements and the spirit of the tour while controlling every aspect of
the compartment to be toured.
"If you will accompany me, we will head that direction. Along the way I will
be glad to answer any questions that you may have, but I do not wish to bore
you with dry statistics or a prepared speech." She said and led the way.
The other two security officers fell into step behind the group as they
exited Ten Forward. 

(reply Any Romulan, Any) 

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10- Hades Section, Engineering Control– Security Officer
T'Sol– 1155) 

The doors to the engineering control room for the Hades section of the
tri-vector vessel slid open with barely a sound. The room was illuminated,
as was standard procedure, even when not in use and the equipment, including
the warp core, for this section was in standby mode.

There were no engineers present as the compartment was not normally manned
when the vessel was not at an alert status. 

This left the room free of personnel who might slip up and reveal some vital
piece of information. The only occupants were her visitors and the Hades
security personnel.

"As you are already aware this vessel is capable of tri-vector assault,
effectively tripling her tactical capabilities.  This compartment is the
engineering section for one of those sections of the vessel. It boasts a
standard Warp core which powers a pair of embedded warp nacelles and powers
this section of the ship when tri-vector mode is achieved. During those
times this compartment is fully staffed with qualified engineers. When we
are not at alert or in tri-vector mode, the compartment rests in standby
mode as you see it here." She explained.

"You may feel free to look around this compartment, you will find however
that the consoles are completely secured as are the critical areas of the
drive system. I will be glad to answer any general questions that you may
have concerning the engineering systems that you see here."

The Romulan woman stepped forward into the center of the compartment and
looked around with a gauging eye. 

"Is this warp system the same as those found in the other sections of the
ship?" Uhlan S'Tarleya  asked. 

"No," T'Sol answered, "There are two different types of warp core utilized
in the Prometheus class design. Although very similar in functionality,
their power output varies somewhat. This is due to the differing power
requirements of the individual sections ship in which they are located."

(reply Any Romulan, Any) 
(posted by Daniel Greene) 

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10- Hades Section, Engineering Control– Security Officer
T'Sol– 1159) 

"Intriguing," Rhian said, "are the two types of warp cores compatible?  If
they brought this core on line while still attached to the ship, would it
increase the power output of the main engines?"

"They are, indeed.  In a situation requiring extraordinary amounts of power
it is possible to synchronize all three warp cores and use them to power the
ship or to utilize the surplus power for special functions. This is not a
very common practice, since extended use of such a synchronized power flow
could cause residual damage to the ship's power distribution network." T'Sol
answered honestly.

"Another interesting factor concerning the Federation warp drive is the
ability to interrupt it's power production at the source, whereas it is my
understanding that can not be undertaken with the quantum singularity drives
utilized by your Empire.  While the singularity is most assuredly more
powerful than the Warp drives utilized by Starfleet on a output scale, the
Warp drive is generally considered safer, especially where certain types of
containment failures are concerned." she added.

"What sort of special function might this excess power be used for
hypothetically?" S'Tarleya asked. "Weapons, Shields, Sensors and the like?"

"Indeed, all of those applications and more could benefit from the
additional power that such synchronization would provide. The additional
power could also be used to power reinforcement to the main deflector dish
to strengthen navigational shields or to run specialized scientific
experiments or modular compartments as the vessel required. We have found
however that there is very little need to synchronize two or even all three
of the cores, since the primary warp core produces more than enough power
for the ship's needs under standard operational or tactical conditions." She
answered.

T'Sol looked up at Rhian and forced herself to smile slightly. She was under
the understanding that it may make the Romulans feel more comfortable if
they felt they were not dealing with a more austere and stoic member of the
Vulcan species. She did not hold the smile long, but allowed it to disappear
very quickly.
"If there are other areas that you would like to visit, I would be glad to
conduct you there, Commander." she added using the uncharacteristic words
that signified an emotional state, in the use of the word 'glad'.

(reply Rhian, Any) 
(posted by Daniel Greene) 

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10, Engineering Control – Centurion Mavus – 1201)

Mavus listened, interested, as Ensign T'Sol told them much of what they
already knew. The idea that the extra warp cores could be activated and
synchronized for extra power however, was not an aspect she had considered.
The Commander was certainly a quick thinker on his feet. 

This ship had a diverse crew and not all of them hominid. Though the rock
and tree creatures had been interesting and certainly am unreported
surprise, Mavus was interested in how well trained and intelligent this
Vulcan was in social situations. Though Mavus was certainly interested in
what the rock and tree creatures could do in experimental situations given
the paradigm of combat or defense that would have to wait for another time.
Right now the Vulcan Starfleet officer offered a perfect chance to test out
her theories about the Vulcan façade.  
She quietly studied the Vulcan officer who was giving them a tour. She was
interested in seeing what a Vulcan would do with Romulan cousins, although
admittedly 'cousins' was a loose way of describing the connection between
Romulans and Vulcans. She almost giggled seeing the false smile the Vulcan
painted on her face. Was this Vulcan child interested in their Commander and
hiding it behind a logical reasoning mechanism?

"If there are other areas that you would like to visit, I would be glad to
conduct you there, Commander," said Ensign T'Sol. Mavus noted the slight
emphasis Ensign T'Sol placed on the word glad. 

"I would like to see some other recreational areas of the ship," said Mavus.
"I have heard that you use recreation as a way to stimulate your crewmembers
to help them to better focus on their assigned tasks when they are on duty.
How does this not distract them and decrease their quality of performance?"

(Reply T'Sol, Any)

"How would you describe your interactions with various other species of crew
on this ship with which you recreate? Does their interactions during time
spent in the recreational areas end in fights or disciplinary action?"

(Reply T'Sol)
(Posted by Sheila Mayer)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Bridge - Lieutenant Ardena Carrow - 1200)

Ardena suppressed a yawn. Here they were, in the middle of Romulan space,
circling the planet of the great old enemy, and she was bored out of her
mind. She was starting to understand why Commander Lemar looked like he had
a permanent sour stomach. 2,051 requests for information from the Romulan
government. She'd forwarded the scientific requests to their minister in
charge of education with the note attached of maybe he'd want to stick some
of his enthusiastic students on their Federation counterparts. Okay, so the
staff of the Federation vessel weren't exactly university students, but she
was pretty darn sure SOME of these questions were being fronted for family
members.

The reality, of course, was her forward probably went to someone in the
Romulan government who THEN decided whether she was worthy to talk to the
minister of education who would decide if she was off her rocker or not. 

~Better boredom than the alternative.~ She was used to long periods of
nothing from gamma shifts on the Spectre, but why was this so different? Was
it that all the bridge staff seemed to have something active and important
to do while she was just playing secretary? ~How the hell do Yeoman's do
this all day? Can't I just promote Lebranski to Ensign and give her this
job?~

On Gamma she could use the immense databanks of the ship to meander and
research as the mood struck her, for some reason, now she felt like she
should be on topic and attentive. Possibly their location, possibly the time
of day, possibly she was just nervous and unsure on a new ship surrounded by
people she didn't know, commanded by people she didn't understand.

She did hope that the planet below would be opened up to them soon. She
itched to walk the soils below, to smell the air, and feel the life of a
planet beneath and around her. The fact that the Romulans colonized the
planet in the old ways just added to the itch. How they had effected the
development of the planet, what species had changed, died, survived.. It was
an endless supply of questions, discoveries and answers. 

Maybe she should add her list of questions to those already sent down. She
straightened in the chair that felt too big for the 15th time, or maybe she
shouldn't have weaseled out of Fanatic Frazier's away mission - they might
be the only ones with a chance of seeing the planet below.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Lorna)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10, Ten Forward – CTAC Lt. Ammon Ranae  - 1202)

Relieved from no longer having to make nice with the Romulan Sub-Commander,
Ranae had finished eating her lunch and was considering returning to her
duty station when a familar rumbling could be heard approaching, and she
looked down to see her friend the Horta had come over to see her. 

Maraht asked her, "So Ranae, what do you think of the Romulans? Are they as
bad as you thought or better than we have been led to believe?"

"Fortunately, Maraht, I only had the dubious pleasure of talking to one and
he was a conceited, arrogant braggart who considers himself and his kind to
be superior to the rest of us.  I am pleased they have moved on, to be
honest and if I don't have to deal with them further, I shall be even more
pleased.  What do you think of them?"
  
"I thought Centurion Mavus was all right, but I am not sure I could trust
her. I thought she seemed the most approachable," he replied.

Ranae nodded, "well, perhaps there is hope then, that they are all not so
full of themselves."  She commented, wondering how Baylon and the
Ambassador's team were doing down on the planet.

Maraht commended Yeoman Lebranski for her work at organizing the luncheon
and stated he had helped helped her fix the stasis field for the ice
sculpture.  Then he asked if the food had been edible.  By edible Ranae
guessed he meant, had it been good.

The food was excellent, Maraht, and I noticed she laid on quite a spread for
you too."  The CTAC grinned at her rocky friend.  

~ Food was the only thing worth coming to the luncheon for.~  Ranae thought.
"With Romulans on board, I want to get back to work. Something tells me I
should keep a phalange ready. I think they went off on some sort of tour and
that makes me feel a tad nervous after the explosion we had Deck 5."

Ranae stood up and tossed her napkin on the empty plate.  "That's what I was
about to do also."  She stated, pushing the chair back in to towards the
table.  "I will come along with you."

(Reply Any)
(posted by Sal)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Bridge – COPS Lt. Maraht - 1208)

Maraht rumbled his way with great relief to the Bridge. He had snacked and
socialized all he could with the Romulans. He was still uncertain about
them, though Centurian Mavus and Commander Rhian had seemed nice enough from
what he had observed of them. But he knew that it could still be a well
maintained façade and he wanted to get back to work. 

"How are things going up here Lt. Carrow?" asked Maraht. "Is everything
quiet?" 

(Reply Ardena Carrow)

Maraht handed her a plate of food. "I brought you up some thing that Yeoman
Lebranski said she thought you might enjoy. I had to have her help in
filling up this plate for you. There are lots of vegetables and some salad
along with other things she thought you would enjoy. If you don't want it I
suppose you can recycle it into the food replicator. 

(Reply Ardena Carrow)

After handing the plate of food to Lt. Carrow to do with as she wished,
Maraht made his way over to the Operations console. "Ensign you are
relieved. If you would like to go down to join the crew in Ten Forward to
get yourself some lunch, you are certainly welcome to do so. I recommend the
white marble gravel."  Maraht waved his main phalange with laughter as the
Ensign smiled and nodding stood up and left the Bridge after removing his
chair and parking it next to the wall. 

Maraht tugged his small platform to the console and began accessing the
ships power and security systems. He was relieved to see that certain
consoles in the other sections and auxiliary areas were still locked and
powered down. With the Romulans on the tour he wanted to check on the ship's
status for himself.

(Reply Ardena Carrow)
(Posted by Sheila Mayer)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Bridge – Lieutenant Ardena Carrow - 1209)

"How are things going up here Lt. Carrow?" asked Maraht. "Is everything
quiet?"

Ardena wasn't quite sure why she was so happy to see the Chief of Operations
appear. Perhaps it was just his natural aura of jovularity. She could only
assume he'd be increasing morale and making jokes as the ship fell apart and
he was helping people into the life pods. "Besides a repeated download
request. It seems HQ wants us to download the latest holo-matrix which is a
'holo-marine,' but the USS Rodrequez, the USS McAfee and the USS Horizon
have flagged it a virus. I keep bouncing it back for further explanation but
aren't getting anywhere." She paused, "What's that?"

Maraht handed her a plate of food. "I brought you up some thing that Yeoman
Lebranski said she thought you might enjoy. I had to have her help in
filling up this plate for you. There are lots of vegetables and some salad
along with other things she thought you would enjoy. If you don't want it I
suppose you can recycle it into the food replicator.

"Oooh, I heard about the Harper Salad, but I didn't manage to fight my way
to it." She accepted the plate, "Thank you very much, Lieuitenant." The
Horta didn't seem to have remembered utensils, but she wasn't too proud to
eat with her fingers. Just as long as no one sent a tri-vid to her father
for him to wince at. 'Sitting in command of a startship sensha, and you eat
lunch like a savage?' ~Grrr, yum, get me club.~

She watched Maraht happily rumble to the rear of the bridge and relieve the
operations ensign. She was happy to munch in companionable silence as he
reviewed the state of his domain. A beep from the command console showed
that HQ was trying *again* to send them the holo-marine program. "Blast it."

she muttered.

"Lieutenant Maraht?" she asked, turning to look at the chief of Operations.

(Reply Maraht)

"HQ is trying to send this program again without description or explanation.

I don't suppose you could figure out what it's all about *without* it
compromising our systems and installing a potential virus?" she asked
somewhat wryly. She could operate and do basic repairson her lab equipment,
tricorders and field supplies, advanced holo-programming was just a *tad*
out of her league. Though.. she wondered if Commander Harvey had ever gotten
over her field repair of the medical tricorder with a hair clip..

(Reply Maraht, any on bridge)
(Posted by Lorna)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Bridge – COPS Lt. Maraht - 1211)

"Lieutenant Maraht?" she asked, turning to look at the chief of Operations.

"Yes, Lt. Carrow?" asked Maraht, pausing with his main phalange held in the
air.

"HQ is trying to send this program again without description or explanation.
I don't suppose you could figure out what it's all about *without* it
compromising our systems and installing a potential virus?" she asked
somewhat wryly. 
"That sounds odd. I suppose I could try putting it in a box, so to speak, in
its own little partition of memory and analyze it for potential viruses. How
big is the program?" asked Maraht. 

(Reply Ardena Carrow)

"Let's see what we can do," said Maraht. He had the computer set up enough
memory to accommodate the program files which seemed to be fairly large and
installed firewalls and safeties around it. After downloading the program to
the partition of memory, he set the system to analyze and scan. He carefully
watched the program codes and instructions for the program scroll past
during the scan.
Once the file was scanned and analyzed his console blinked green. "There is
no virus detected and no potential virus threat, though I have identified a
name in one file. Buried in the code, I found the name of Jose Ramirez. Do
you know anyone by that name Lt. Carrow?"

(Reply Ardena Carrow)
(Posted by Sheila Mayer)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Sickbay - CMO Angeni O. Windsong-Trommashere - 1155)

"As far as I can tell, yes..."  The doctor indicated toward a large screen
on the wall near to where she had been standing.  She typed in a few
commands and the screen soon changed to show various coloured dots, with
some kind of 'ripple' effect surrounding them.  At seemingly random
intervals, the rippling would speed up, then the computer would sound an
alarm.

"I'm not sure if its interference or what that's causing it.   The secondary
backup is showing all systems go for those on the surface, but at various
points, the signal either weakens, or is interfered with, causing a 'Code
Red'.  I was able to get a better fix on them, but the readings are still
the same."

She pulled up a split screen to show what the normal readings should look
like, and just what she was seeing.
 
"My concern is, I'm not sure just how stable the 'normal' vitals are.  If
something does happen, and the readings stay normal, I won't have any way of
knowing, in the same sentence, I don't want to be beaming anyone out just
because of a scudgy reading..."

"Scudgy...?"  Jonas said as he looked with a frown at the Doctor.  He was
unfamiliar with the term, but he got the general meaning.

Seeming to shrug off Lemar's comment, she asked, "Have you spoken with any
of the away team?"

"Not yet," replied Jonas. "I'm sure I'll hear from them soon enough.  For
now,
I'm notconcerned."  

She nodded carefully.  "I just wanted to bring this to your attention.  I
don't think we need to take any action as of right now, but as I said, I
wanted you to know...better to be safe than sorry."  She wanted to question
his not being concerned, but she learned early in life when to keep her
mouth shut and her ears open.

"I'll have a word with science and see if we can't come up with something to
cut through that interference."
 
"Sounds like a good plan to me."  
 
She noted the note of frustration in his voice, but she couldn't do anything
to fix it.  She couldn't explain what was going on any better than he could.
She took a few slow, deep breaths, trying to keep herself focused.  She
watched as he moved across the bay to the Captain.  
 
As he picked up his chart, a slight twinge went through her stomach.  She
knew Jonas was- *is*- a doctor, but not only was he a doctor, but he was her
commanding officer.  She held her breath, hoping that everything in the
chart was up to his...level of expectation. To the neurotic, obsessive
compulsive side of her, she felt like he expected perfection.  To the
reasonable side of her, he expected her best.  Needless to say, the neurosis
was rearing its ugly head.
 
"Is there much more we can do for him here?"  Jonas called out to her, not
really facing her.
 
~Oh no...I must've done something wrong...he'll want him transported to the
nearest Starbase for better treatment~
 
Angeni walked over, shaking her head slowly.  "I'm trying to take his
treatment as slow as possible. After the last attempt at bringing him out
from under sedation went poorly, I've just left him as sedated as possible,
but at the same time, I've been slowly but surely weaning him off the high
doses.  I've been able to wean him off the high doses of pain killers; when
I first had him, we had him on a Fentanyl drip, but I have him weaned down
to a dose of Toradol every four hours, with a low dose of Morphine for break
through pain."
 
(Reply Lemar)
 
Angeni rubbed her temples, shaking her head slowly.  "It's going to be a
long, slow process I'm afraid.  On the up side of things, all the synthetic
patches have given way to real tissue, so I'm quite pleased about that." 
 
She put her hands behind her back, slowly edging out into what could be
dangerous waters."I'm sure once you hear from the away team, we can all
breathe a sigh of relief.  I have to give you all the credit in world for
doing what you do..."

(Reply Lemar)
(Posted by Kari)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Ten Forward - ACSO Ensign Shayhilosh - 1148)

Shayhiloosh picked up a small bucket of mineral waters from the buffet table
in order to drink more deeply. S/he was finding the small bottles of mineral
water were too small. S/he found it sweetened with a little dextrose and
highly satisfying.

As the First Officer was talking with Shayhiloosh, his commbadge sounded
quietly.  =^= Dr. Trommashere to Commander Lemar, I have some questions
about the Away Teams' life signs if you have a moment to talk, Sir.=^=
With a soft tap of his badge he responded, "Doctor, I'll be right with you."

As the doctor signed off, Jonas made his apologies to the science officer.
"If you'll excuse me Ensign." He stepped away and said, "Enjoy the rest of
the luncheon."
"Thank you Sir. I will endeavor to do so," answered Shayhiloosh. 

Shayhiloosh was concerned that the away team could be having trouble, but
knew that it could also be a result of mechanical difficulties. S/he could
only hope that the Great Creator would help them to resolve the difficulties
quickly, whether instrumental or with the treaty negotiations. 

(Reply Any)
(Posted by Sheila Mayer)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10, Sickbay – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1149)

By the time he had finished making his excuses and arrangements for the
Romulan guests, Jonas hoped he wasn’t going to be late for whatever it was
Angeni was waiting to show him.  So, in an effort to make up for it, Jonas
had decided to jog the hallways until he arrived at Sickbay.

As he stepped through the doors, he realised that he had not seen Wendy for
a long time. He had left their quarters rather early that morning, so hadn’t
had much chance to spend time with her.  When he didn’t see her working away
anywhere, Jonas’s heart sank a little.  With an inward sigh he thought ~Oh
well, I’m sure I’ll see her later~

It didn’t take him long to find the Chief Medical Officer, standing by a
main console studying some readings on the large interface.  As Jonas
approached her he said, “Aren’t you supposed to be at a certain Luncheon,
helping to entertain some Romulans?”

(reply: Trommashere)

Smiling, he let a laugh escape his lips, but his face soon turned to
seriousness.  “So, what is it you need to talk to me about?  What’s
happening with the away team?”  Jonas hadn’t thought about it before, but
could something be wrong?  Were they in danger??  “Are they alright?”

(reply: Trommashere, any)
(posted by Dave)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades - Deck 10, Sickbay - CMO Angeni O. Windsong-Trommashere - 1152)

 "Aren't you supposed to be at a certain
Luncheon, helping to entertain some Romulans?"

Angeni turned to Jonas, a weak smile on her face.  She brushed a whisp or
two of hair away from her face, turning to face the man fully.

"Take it for what it's worth, sir, with the constant flux of the Captain's
vitals, I wanted to be here just in case something were to go bad...Also..."
She said with a smirk, "I'm not much of a disaster.  I don't want to ruin
peace talks by screwing up the Two Step..."

 "So, what is it you need to talk to me about?  What's happening with the
away team? Are they alright?"

"As far as I can tell, yes..."

She gestured to the screen, tapping a few things.  The screen showed various
colored dots with almost a ripple effect around them.  At various intervals,
the rippling would get faster and an alarm would sound.

"I'm not sure if it's interferrance or what that's causing it.  The
secondary backup is showing all systems go for those on the surface, but at
various points, the signal either weakens, or is interfeared with, causing a
'Code Red'.  I was able to get a better fix on them, but the readings are
still the same."

Angeni turned to face him fully, "My concern is, I'm not sure just how
stable the 'normal' vitals are.  If something does happen, and the readings
stay normal, I won't have any way of knowing, in the same sentance, I don't
want to be beaming anyone out just because of a scudgy reading..."

"Have you spoken with any of the away team?"

(Reply Lemar)

Ang nodded carefully.  "I just wanted to bring this to your attention.  I
don't think we need to take any action as of right now, but as I said, I
wanted you to know...better to be safe than sorry."

(Reply Lemar)
(Posted by Kari)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(USS Hades – Deck 10, Sickbay – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1153)

Jonas was pleased that the Chief Medical officer appeared to be well.  He
didn’t really hold it against her that she hadn’t been present in ten
forward, and given what she was working on down here, he was pleased that
she had decided to stay.  He asked about the away team, wondering if they
were all right.

“As far as I can tell, yes...”  The doctor indicated toward a large screen
on the wall near to where she had been standing.  She typed in a few
commands and the screen soon changed to show various coloured dots, with
some kind of ‘ripple’ effect surrounding them.  At seemingly random
intervals, the rippling would speed up, then the computer would sound an
alarm.
 
As Jonas looked at the display, he was unsure what to make of it.  He could
see a general schematic, which showed them to be inside a large chamber of
some kind, but as for the ripples, he just wasn’t certain.  The technology
being used to monitor the team wasn’t standard issue, and was something that
Trinin had cooked up with the engineers.  He had no idea how to read it
correctly, so he looked back to the doctor for an explanation.

“I'm not sure if it's interference or what that's causing it.  The secondary
backup is showing all systems go for those on the surface, but at various
points, the signal either weakens, or is interfered with, causing a 'Code
Red'.  I was able to get a better fix on them, but the readings are still
the same.”

~At least we can keep a transporter lock~ thought Jonas, not entirely sure
how much use that would be without the rest of the data to enable them to
discover if a beam out was at all necessary.

It was then that Doctor Trommashere turned away from the screen and looked
to face him.  “My concern is, I'm not sure just how stable the 'normal'
vitals are.  If something does happen, and the readings stay normal, I won't
have any way of knowing, in the same sentence, I don't want to be beaming
anyone out just because of a scudgy reading...”

“Scudgy...?”  Jonas said as he looked with a frown at the Doctor.  He was
unfamiliar with the term, but he got the general meaning.

Seeming to shrug off Lemar’s comment, she asked, “Have you spoken with any
of the away team?”

“Not yet,” replied Jonas, not able to keep the frustration out of his tone
of voice.  “I’m sure I’ll hear from them soon enough.  For now, I’m not
concerned.”  That was a blatant untruth, but Jonas moved on passed it and
hoped that Doctor Trommashere would do so too.

She nodded carefully.  “I just wanted to bring this to your attention.  I
don't think we need to take any action as of right now, but as I said, I
wanted you to know...better to be safe than sorry.”

Realising that they were finished here, Jonas turned to move away from the
display screen.  “I’ll have a word with science and see if we can’t come up
with something to cut through that interference.”

(reply: Trommashere)

As he moved across the sickbay, he come across the entrance to the Captain’s
bay.  With a resolved smile, he decided to take a look at the mans charts –
certain that the CMO wouldn’t mind – and he approached the biobed.  Looking
over the data, he could see where the Captain’s condition had taken a
plummet the other day, but that under the close care of the CMO since then,
he had made a slow but steady improvement.

“Is there much more we can do for him here?”  Jonas called out, over his
shoulder.

(reply: Trommashere, any)
(posted by Dave)

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End Compile
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