Total Posts = 37 ===================================================================== Compile Post Summary ===================================================================== Day 9 (USS Hades – Deck 10, Sickbay – Dr Alyss Sh’areh – 0950) (IWS Donatra - Observation Dome - Lt Tom Jackson - 0951) (USS Hades - Deck 10, Sickbay – CCOUNS Ensign Jon Nayati - 0951) (USS Hades -Sickbay -ACMO- Dr. Wendy Kildare - 0951) (USS Hades -Sickbay -CO- Captain Devan Sash - 0955) (Romulus - Survey Site One – ACSO Ensign Shayhiloosh - 1054.5) (Romulus- Survey Site One- Science Officer-Ens. Harry Doorman-1055) (Romulus – Capitol District Security Control – Sub-commander N’Lar – 1055.5) (Romulus- Survey Site One- Science Officer - Ensign Viskhard -1055.5) (IWS Donatra – Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1058) (Romulus - Survey Site One - SO Ensign (jg) Bevan Delcan - 1058) (Romulus - Dreamplane – ACSO Ensign Shayhiloosh - 1058.5) (IWS Donatra - Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core - A/C OPS Lt Thomas Jackson - 1059) (IWS Donatra – Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core– Security Officer-T'Sol– 1100) (IWS Donatra – Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core– A/C OPS - LT Tom Jackson - 1101) (USS Hades – Deck 10, Temporary Armoury – SO Lieutenant Tarus Daban – 1101) (USS Hades – Deck 5, Transporter Room 1 – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1103) (USS Hades – Deck 5, Transporter Room 2 – SO Lieutenant Tarus Daban – 1103.5) (USS Hades - Deck 5, Transporter Room 1 - SO, Ensign T'Sol - 1104) (USS Hades - Deck 1, Bridge – CTAC Lt. Ammon Ranae - 1106) (Romulus – Tal’Shiar Secure Facility, Temporary Cells – Senator Terrh & Ambassador Frazier – 1106) (Romulus - Tal'Shiar Secure Facility, Temporary Cells - CSEC, Lt. Baylon Trinin - 1107) (USS Hades – Deck 1, Main Bridge – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1108) (USS Hades - Deck 1, Bridge – COPS Lt. Maraht - 1109) (USS Hades - Deck 1, Main Bridge -SO, Ensign T'Sol - 1109) (USS Hades - Deck 1, Bridge – A/C OPS Lt. Tom Jackson - 1110) (Romulus – Institute of Advanced Scientific Studies, Courtyard – SO Lieutenant Tarus Daban - 1110) (USS Hades- Bridge - SO Ensign T'Sol - 1112) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Science Officer Ensign (jg) Apollo Stephens - 1905) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Ensign (jg) Yuri Abelev - 1911) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 – Yeoman Calley McDevish – 1913) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 1915) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof- 1916) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Yeoman Calley McDevish - 1918) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 1919) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Yeoman Calley McDevish - 1920) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof - 1920.5) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 1921) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Science Officer Ensign (jg) Apollo Stephens - 1922) (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof - 1923) ===================================================================== Begin Compile ===================================================================== Mission: Tribuo Senatus, Day 9 Stardate: 2408.01.07 ===================================================================== (USS Hades – Deck 10, Sickbay – Dr Alyss Sh’areh – 0950) Alyss’s head pounded, as the blood in her veins struggled to get to where it was needed. Her blood pressure increased, and she swore that she could hear each increasing beat in her eardrums. To her surprise, it was the assistant doctor that came to her aid first, by slapping the counsellor to try and snap him out of his fury. She had given him a few choice words about him not acting like a Starfleet officer, and then insisted that he return Alyss to her former self. He had seemed reluctant still, which is when the chief doctor finally stepped forward. “Look...we all went into this kind of blind. We all need to take a step back, take a deep breath, and go at this again. Arguing and bickering with the one person who can fix what they did is a very bad move.” Doctor Trommashere looked between all involved parties, and then with a glance at the computer screen she clearly looked concerned. Alyss knew that the patient’s medical readings were declining, which had truly been her intention. “Now...can we all take a step back and continue, or do I need to start having security take people out of here and putting them in the brig” continued the doctor, putting particular emphasis on her use of the word brig. “Do I make myself clear?" she said finally. ~Just make a decision~ she felt herself saying, although luckily for her it was still in her head. Her panting was getting heavier, and she had no doubt that if she stayed this way much longer then her muscle fibres would begin to decay due to lack of blood. “Since Dr. Sh'areh has given us no choice other than the death of Sash,” said the counsellor finally, taking a calm step forward, “I will be ever so happy to accommodate you and her.” He bent over Alyss and rapidly touched all the necessary spots, before quickly backing away from her. It was like a flood of warm water gushing over her. As blood rushed to her limbs in an instant, she suddenly felt well again, and although the tingling increased momentarily, it soon began to fade so that she could move again. “She will be able to stand almost immediately.” Jon Nayati informed the group, and then returned to his spot at the Captain’s side. Angeni Trommashere then stepped forward to address Alyss as she got back to her feet. “Now...” she started sternly, “...you will explain what you did do, and what you plan on doing so we can avoid any more...misunderstandings amongst those here...is that acceptable?” Supporting herself with the close by bulkhead, she noticed how none of the others moved to help her up. She didn’t really blame them, considering the circumstances. She had expected such a response to this type of treatment, which is why she hadn’t actually told them about it before she had started. Straightening the ruffles from her tunic where the counsellor had grabbed her, she tried to regain some level or her former dignity. With a bend of her legs, she lowered herself to pick up the two devices that she had dropped. “The rea...” she started croakily, and then cleared her throat in an effort to get rid of the rasp. “The genetically engineered Angosian brain is very advanced, more advanced than many of your federation scientists understand.” As she approached the patient and made another adjustment to the device fixed to his head, the levels reading from the brain began to level off. Alyss had adjusted the device so that she had time to explain her process before the final result was gained. “It prevents itself from harm as most brains do, by sending the body into a coma, but in Angosian subjects the brain closes itself off entirely, to protect itself from neural damage caused by telepathic invasion.” Alyss looked at her device for a moment to confirm her findings, and then looked over at the listening doctors to her side. The ache in her hand and arm had nearly subsided now as she recovered from the acupressure attack. “I won’t go into details; I am sure you can all guess the benefits to this kind of design.” (reply: Trommashere IYW, any IYW) “It is for these reasons...” continued Alyss, looking back at the patient, “...that you haven’t been able to wake him by normal means.” She offered a side-ward glance toward Nayati and added, “And it is for that reason that your acupressure treatment was so unsuccessful.” Before giving the counsellor a chance to respond, as Alyss was certain he would try to do, she pressed on with her explanation. “We have discovered that there is a fail-safe to genetic design. When the brain is close to death, it releases itself from its coma in an attempt to revive the body.” ~At least that’s what my research shows~ thought Alyss to herself, keeping her look stern and not letting slip the fact that she had never tried this on an a live subject. “That is what I was attempting to do here,” She then turned and laid her hand-held device to rest on the edge of the bio-bed. “So you see, it was never my intention to actually kill you Captain, but merely fool his brain in to thinking it was dying.” She offered a simple smile toward the chief doctor. It was clear that she was the most level headed out of the group; albeit not what she had credited her with at the beginning of their consultation. “Whether he will enter a standard coma, out of which we will be able to bring him, or whether he will spring awake in an instant. I cannot say what his reaction will be. It is different for each individual.” She ended with a little white lie. The truth was, she had never tried this on a single individual, never mind a group for her to make such an assumption. She just hoped that they wouldn’t question it, so they could continue. She had already held the patient synaptic levels at a point far lower than was safely recommended without causing brain damage. Delaying further could stop him waking up all together. (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (IWS Donatra - Observation Dome - Lt Tom Jackson - 0951) Tom Jackson waited as the Romulan Commander, Rihan, spoke to the assembled Federation officers. "Gentlemen, Miss T'Sol, welcome to the Donatra. She is the first of her kind. I hope that the actual ship measures up to the hype of your tactical information that you may have acquired about her." Tom Jackson thought he detected a note of pride in the Commander's voice. "Commander, I am most impressed with your vessel" Tom replied (reply: anyone) Jackson was secretly hoping he could meet with his Romulan counterpart and maybe com[are notes. The commander's next words startled T.J. " "I hope that you don't mind if I borrow your Commander for a moment, I have something of the utmost importance to discuss with him. Arrienye will begin your tour of the ship, and Commander Lemar and I will join you shortly." Tom was tempted to speak but Jonas's facial features indicated he would be safe. "As you wish Commander" Tom replied. Jackson was anxious for the tour to begin. (posted by: Bill West) ===================================================================== (USS Hades - Deck 10, Sickbay – CCOUNS Ensign Jon Nayati - 0951) After removing Dr. Sh'areh's paralysis he had induced with the necessary accupressure, Jon stepped back to Sash's biobed and waited. By the time he arrived there, he heard Dr. Trommashere finally take charge of the situation. Angeni Trommashere then stepped forward to address the Romulan physician as she got back to her feet. "Now, you will explain what you did do, and what you plan on doing so we can avoid any more...misunderstandings amongst those here. Is that acceptable?" ~Everything that has happened in the last few minutes could have been avoided if Dr. Sh'areh had been straight with us from the beginning.~ Supporting herself with the nearby bulkhead, the Romulan doctor slowly stood up. She straightened the wrinkles from her tunic. Assuming a dignified mien, she slowly bent to pick up the two devices that she had dropped. "The rea..." she croaked, and then cleared her throat."The genetically engineered Angossian brain is very advanced, more advanced than many of your Federation scientists understand." Jon studied her aura as the Doctor spoke. So far she appeared to be telling the truth. As Dr Sh'areh approached the patient and made another adjustment to the device fixed to the Captain's head, the readings from his brain began to level off. "It prevents itself from harm as most brains do, by sending the body into a coma, but in Angossian subjects the brain closes itself off entirely, to protect itself from neural damage caused by telepathic invasion." As the Romulan doctor spoke, Jon was gratified to see that Captain Sash's life force was no longer on the verge of expiring, but he noted that it was still dim. Dr. Sh'areh looked at her device for a moment, and then looked over at the listening doctors to her side. "I won't go into details; I am sure you can all guess the benefits to this kind of design." "I don't want to be part of the problem here, Dr. Sh'areh," Jon stated quietly. "But does that mean that anything I do to reach the Captain telepathically will send him back into a coma? Or does this mean that his mind will attack anyone invading it telepathically? Either result might cause the Captain's death anyway, and possibly my own. I was in the death throes of Captain Sash's mind in the moment I broke telepathic contact with him. He has a very powerful mind, and I don't relish the idea of being attacked by it, if his mind gets into a defensive mode." (Reply Alyss Sh'areh, Angeni Windsong Trommashere IYW, Any) "It is for these reasons..." continued Alyss, looking back at the patient, "...that you haven't been able to wake him by normal means." Glancing at Jon and Dr. Sh'areh added, "And it is for that reason that your acupressure treatment was so unsuccessful." Jon nodded, keeping his opinion to himself, noting that despite his efforts to explain that it had helped to keep the Captain alive and had improved his biosigns, she was choosing to ignore it. Dr. Sh'areh continued her explanation. "We have discovered that there is a failsafe to genetic design. When the brain is close to death, it releases itself from its coma in an attempt to revive the body. That is what I was attempting to do here." As she spoke her last sentence, Jon noted Dr. Sh'areh's aura suddenly showed pale traces of doubt and uncertainty. ~Could she be withholding something?~ She then turned and laid her hand-held device to rest on the edge of the bio-bed. "So you see, it was never my intention to actually kill your Captain, but merely fool his brain into thinking it was dying." She offered a simple smile toward the chief doctor. "Whether he will enter a standard coma, out of which we will be able to bring him, or whether he will spring awake in an instant, I cannot say what his reaction will be. It is different for each individual." Dr. Sh'areh's aura confirmed that she was unsure about the Captain's response to treatment but it also showed her telling the truth that if treatment was delayed, the Captain would probably die. From experience, Jon knew that unless a healer gave evidence of precognition, they were often uncertain of the outcome of treatments or procedures. With that thought in mind, Jon spoke. "Let's proceed and see if we are successful, if it is agreed that we will share information." He wanted to keep watching the Romulan doctor's aura to detect any further omission on her part. She had begun by withholding information and he was wary of allowing her to do it again. (Posted by Jim McCrary) ===================================================================== (USS Hades -Sickbay -ACMO- Dr. Wendy Kildare - 0951) This was all taking way too long. Wendy had been relieved to see that Angeni had gotten into this, and their goal was the same, to save the captain. She was demanding more information from Sh'areh. However, the threat of a slow death did not have her convinced. Sash's life signs were dropping rapidly, and if something didn't happen soon he would suffer from irreversible brain damage. Wendy felt bad about turning on Jon, and she could see the betrayal in his eyes. But still, he did as he had been asked. After he'd returned Sh'areh She couldn't look at him any longer, so she turned her attention to the Romulan. After all, she had begun to explain what was going on. He had explained how Sash's altered mind was able to protect itself from telepathic manipulation, even while he was in a coma. Once again, Wendy marveled at the lengths the Angossian people had gone to protect their warriors. If only they had given them the respect that they had earned rather than the fear that they got, things might have turned out differently on their homeworld. Then Sh'areh dropped her bombshell of information. And to be honest, she could understand why she did. If someone had told her that to revive the captain she would have to kill him... well, she knew that she couldn't do it. It would have taken an outsider, no... it would have taken a Romulan to do it. For even though the results seemed bopeful, the method was dubious, at best. What she did know was that they had been able to do nothing. A beep at the display panel took her attention. Then there was another. "The captain's life sign's are falling. His heart rate is nearly non-existent. Breathing is shallow. No matter what, I believe we're going to see the result of Doctor Sh'areh's research right now." With that said, as if on cue, a long siren sounded, noting that Captain Devan Sash had just died. (posted by Al Muir) ===================================================================== (USS Hades -Sickbay -CO- Captain Devan Sash - 0955) Dark oblivion. Devan smiled, at least he thought he smiled. It was so hard to tell when you really couldn't see anything. But it felt as though he were smiling. So he went with that notion. He knew that he was enjoying the lack of anything. Responsibility was gone. Loss was gone. Weight of command was gone. Pain was gone. ~Love is gone. ~ Sash looked around in the darkness, at least he thought he did. "Who...?" ~Who else? ~ Sash knew who it was. "Go away." ~Petualnat child. You know you can't dismiss me like that. ~ He did know. "What the hell do you want?" ~Tsk, tsk, tsk. Devan Sash, does your mother know you talk like that. Besides, you know what I want. It's the same thing that you want. It's what you've always wanted. You just have never let yourself have it. Oh you've given it a pale imitation. But really, when have you allowed yourself to feel anything for anyone? ~ There was no answer to that. "You know when." ~And when that was gone you closed that part of your life. Oh I understand. I'd do it myself. Oh wait, I did. But the time has come for you to let that part of your life open again. Your heart has healed Devan Sash. You have carried the weight of the death of your family too long. It is time to let that weight go and move forward. That weight is like an Albaross, constantly dragging you down. Let it go. ~ The image of a large bird chained around his neck flashed through his mind. But there was no weight there. He had let it go, finally, and permanently. "I'm good, thanks." ~NO! You're not good. You've let it all go. Too much. It can't be all or nothing Devan. You are still needed in this world. The other side is not ready for you. Lynda has already told you to keep going. You're just acting like a spoiled brat. ~ Sash scowled. "I don't want to go back. This peace is nice." ~CHILD! This peace is a charade. It's not real. And you will leave a wake of devastation behind you that that side is not prepared for. Now get your butt up and get back to it. ~ Sash sighed, at least, he thought he did. A bright light appeared in the distance. Although it seemed far away, he felt he could just reach his hand up to touch it. Still, his mind wanted to just stay where he was. Suddenly there was another presence there. Not with him, but calling out to him from the light. The draw was almost magnetic. So Sash moved closer to it. The light grew brighter as he got closer to it. Then he was there. Tentatively he reached out a hand, leaning towards the light. There was a sensation as if a foot planted itself on Sash's rear, and Sash stumbled into the light. The next thing he knew he was sitting up and could hear Wendy Kildare saying, "Oh my God, he's alive." (posted by Al Muir) ===================================================================== (Romulus - Survey Site One – ACSO Ensign Shayhiloosh - 1054.5) Ensign Shayhiloosh gloried in the heavy mist of warm mineral water from the geyser six hundred meters away. The mineral water was delicious and had been cooled by contact with the atmosphere. S/he could not help but taste it all over hir roots. S/he thanked the Elders that their equipment was fairly waterproof, though it might not work after being fully submerged in water. The mist would not affect it much, other than possibly making it a little slick to hold. Shayhiloosh protectively wrapped an extra root around each of hir three tricorders. The volcanic eruption was miles away but fascinating to observe. The lava flows were slow and sluggish. The pyroclastic flow was much gentler than what Shayhiloosh had read about and witnessed. S/he quickly learned from their guides that the volcano erupted on a regular basis and that the area was normally geologically active due to a major fault line where two tectonic plates rubbed together. Knowing Maraht would be fascinated by the area and the volcanic eruption, Shayhiloosh took plenty of pictures, both still and moving, to better document the entire scene and helped Ensign Doorman to collect samples. Making sure they were basically alone, while s/he worked with Ensign Doorman to do so, s/he spoke to him very quietly using a minimal amount of leaf bladders. "I am going to attempt to check in on my offspring Shureshlee. We have not been separated since the time of hir awakening on Geneva. They do not know about Shureshlee on the Hades and I prefer to keep it that way for now." (Reply Harry Doorman, IYW) Eventually Shayhiloosh wondered over to some looser soil farther from the geyser where the ground was cool after checking with a Tricorder and verifying it with scans from another. S/he hung hir equipment from hir self grown hands. Pleading the desire to test the soil here using hir own natural Arborian methods, which was true, Shayhiloosh snaked hir strong roots into the volcanically enriched loose soil and pulled in hir eyestalks onto hir branches. (Posted by Sheila) ===================================================================== (Romulus- Survey Site One- Science Officer-Ens. Harry Doorman-1055) Before long Shayhiloosh had joined him in collecting samples for Maraht. Once they had found themselves fairly well out of earshot of the other members of the survey team, the Arborean 'whispered' to Harry saying, "I am going to attempt to check in on my offspring Shureshlee. We have not been separated since the time of hir awakening on Geneva. They do not know about Shureshlee on the Hades and I prefer to keep it that way for now." "I completely understand" harry Whispered back. "I'll keep an eye on things and make certain McKenzie is extra-vigilant as well." As the Arborean moved over to some softer soil for some more personal sampling, Harry walked across the survey area to where McKenzie was occupied with some sort of experiment. "Need any Help Ensign McKenzie?" he asked as he approached. (posted by Daniel Greene) ===================================================================== (Romulus – Capitol District Security Control – Sub-commander N’Lar – 1055.5) This was the first time that N’Lar had ever had either the opportunity or the need to speak with a Horta. Before today, he hadn’t even known that it was possible to speak to such a crystalline entity. Usually, such diversity in the evolutionary path meant that communication was often difficult – Tholians had taught them that. As the Horta spoke, it advised him that they were indeed sending their own security and medical teams to the incident site. N’Lar had fully expected this, which is why he had sent extra of his own men, just in case. =^= ...In the meantime, I would like to hear from all of the Science team members myself. We will be ascertaining where they are and making sure they remain safe =^= “Of course,” N’Lar responded, looking off-screen to a communications station to his right. “We will do what we can to facilitate this as soon as possible.” At that moment, he was handed a small device which N’Lar read quickly to himself. It was a brief status report on the locations of the aforementioned science teams. “There is severe magnetic interference at the survey site of one of your teams, caused by the particularly active geology there, so direct communication will not be possible, however, we will work to find a solution to this for you.” =^= I will contact you again if necessary. Thank you for your assistance. Lt. Maraht out =^= As the screen went black, N’Lar had one or two strange looks heading his way. It seemed that his unusually helpful demeanour was not very expected, and some of the officers were wondering why he was helping them at all. “In case you didn’t get the memo, one of their people has died. We are trying to avert a diplomatic incident here, and if that means helping them contact their people, than that’s what are going to do.” Although his tone had started as friendly and informative, it had soon taken on a harsh tone that was similar to scolding. “Now get back to your posts and do your jobs!” His final orders were barked, and after that none dared look over Sub-commander N’Lar. (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (Romulus- Survey Site One- Science Officer - Ensign Viskhard -1055.5) Ensign Viskhard was so engrossed in the array of rocks that seemed to just grow from nowhere that he barely registered the rest of the team at all. ~Such a fascinating display, it's almost... opulent, to say the least.~ He had no trouble letting his enthusiasm show across his features and very nearly chuckled several times as he went along, feeling very much like a kid in a candy store. He thought to himself as he scanned another glittering specimen. ~Ah! A wonderful example of Ca3Fe2(SiO4)3, Calcium iron silicate. Andradite, if I'm not mistaken, I wonder what name the Romulans give this?~ Bending down, Visk collected a sample of the amber stone and was immediately drawn to the next spot, where grew an irregular column of varegiated black and white stone. As he let his tricorder be his guide he dodged a run-in with Ensign Doorman and only look up when he heard Harry speak. "Need any help Ensign McKenzie?" Visk noted that Ensign McKenzie was conducting an experiment, but surmized that the two were more than capable of continuing without him and eagerly went back to collecting samples. (posted by Lori) ===================================================================== (IWS Donatra – Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1058) As Jonas tapped his comm. badge to request a report from his ship, he couldn’t help but overhear that Commander Rhian was also receiving a message of some kind. He couldn’t help but wonder if the two were related in some way. =^= Sir, this is Lt. Ammon, an emergency has arisen that requires your presence back aboard the Hades =^= the courteous response from Ammon had been short, but riddled with all kinds of holes that could lead Jonas to ask all manner of questions. Deciding to receive the details on his return he replied simply with, “Very well. I will be back very shortly. Lemar out.” He lightly tapped his comm. badge and turned to the Romulan officers in time to hear the tail end of a rather heated discussion over a small viewer at the other side of the computer core. Jonas stayed back, not wishing to intrude on what was clearly meant to be more private that it ended up being. Just a few moments later, Rhian turned from the screen, and back to Jonas and his three colleagues. “It appears, Commander, that I am supposed to demand your surrender for you crimes of attempting to kill our Praetor.” The look of absolute flabbergasted surprise was not really what Jonas was going for, but still the look made its way to his face. ~Kill the Praetor?~ All of a sudden, Jonas began to sense things were not going well. Clearly there was more that Lieutenant Ammon wanted to tell him, had she the opportunity. It seemed that things had somehow spiralled out of control; and the whole time while he was enjoying himself on a tour of a Romulan warship – a warship that it was likely he would not be leaving any time soon. Just as Jonas was about to start to protest, Rhian beat him to the punch. “Unfortunately, you have just returned to your ship and I was unable to do so," Rhian did not smile, although it was clear this was intended to be a friendly ‘head-start’. “If I were you I would prepare for some hard times ahead” Rhian warned finally. Jonas really didn’t have any words. All he offered was a nod of agreement, and the silent thanks it held was understood by both parties. With that Rhian turned, and with first officer in tow, headed out of the area. “Ensign T’Sol, lead us back to the transporter room on the double.” (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (Romulus - Survey Site One - SO Ensign (jg) Bevan Delcan - 1058) Delcan walked over to the group of Hades scientist. At least, he hoped they were from the Hades. It was hard to tell with all the mist. The Bajoran approached the closest figure, the one he recognized as McKenzie. "Sir," he started, "I was under the impression you could use more help down here. What do you need me to do?" (posted by Spencer) ===================================================================== (Romulus - Dreamplane – ACSO Ensign Shayhiloosh - 1058.5) Accessing the Dreamplane proved to be more difficult for Shayhiloosh. S/he was over excited and had to meditate for a few minutes, tasting the soil and listening to the area geologically. It rumbled and growled and was much more active than what Shayhiloosh had thought it would be, but then hir remembered the geyser. ~There must be some sort of underground river nearby that is in close proximity with a volcanic lava vent somewhere.~ Shayhiloosh found it more difficult to achieve the calm necessary to enter the Dreamplane safely but s/he finally did so. It sprang into colorful existence around hir what with Shayhiloosh being on the planet, and soon s/he was speaking with Shureshlee. They clasped roots lovingly in joy at seeing one another again. "Elder Parent, I bring you sad news. I overheard it announced on the ship that our Science Officer Lt. Carrow had died on the planet Romulus. I do not know why she had to die. I did not hear details." Shayhiloosh's boughs bent in sorrow as did Shurshlee's. The Dreamplane became grayer and began to take on a desolate look. "Her existence has joined the Great Circle of Life, Shureshlee," said Shayhiloosh in an attempt to comfort both of them. "So now she will always be with us, to experience life in another way." "I know Elder Parent." Shureshlee's eyebulbs began to leak tears and the Dreamplane began to mist over. Shayhiloosh, concerned about hir Child, said, "I am down on the planet Shureshlee. While you are there on the ship without me, I want you to spend time with your friend Rosalind Winters and see one of the Counselors. If you can see Counselor Jon Nayati who may be able to join you on the Dreamplane, that may help. Remember, your emotions will affect your safety on the Dreamplane so do not be alone if you can help it. No matter what happens, I will always love you. I will be back on the ship soon." Shureshlee, weeping copiously, nodded an eyebulb at hir parent and tried valiantly to stop crying. Hir efforts warmed all three of Shayhiloosh's hearts. "You will be all right, Shureshlee. Trust yourself a little. Though times can be difficult with this kind of loss, it doesn't mean that our lives must stop. Ardena Carrow would not have wanted it that way. It will get better, but it may take time. We will give you plenty of time." "She was always so nice to me when she would come into the Jungle. I liked her a lot. She encouraged me," said Shureshlee, remembering. "She wasn't like the other Vulcans. She smiled and laughed and was very kind." "I know. I liked her too," said Shayhiloosh sadly. "But she will always be with us now." "Its not the same," said Shureshlee. "No it is not the same," agreed Shayhiloosh. "But the Circle is full of change. You have felt that Circle turn as I have. Energy and matter doesn't stop existing; it only changes from one form into another as does Life. So now our friend has gone through a change. One day we may see her when we change too." "Yes Elder Parent. I want you to come back soon. I miss you, especially now," said Shureshlee tearfully. "I will come back as soon as I can, Shureshlee. You are good, brave, intelligent and much stronger than you know. I want you to leave the Dreamplane now and see your friend Rosalind. She will understand why you are sad when you tell her, I am sure. And don't forget to talk to one of the Counselors." Shayhiloosh gave Shureshlee's roots a final gentle squeeze. Shureshlee nodded an eyestalk at hir Parent and left the Dreamplane. Shayhiloosh glanced around, noting the churning Volcano and the erupting geyser. There was a stillness in the ground here, a sort of growing tension that s/he could feel. With the tectonic plates and the geological instability of the area, it was likely that an earthquake was going to happen soon, though s/he couldn't predict for sure how soon. When it did happen, Shayhiloosh could sense it would be massive. S/he left the Dreamplane to warn the others. (Posted by Sheila) ===================================================================== (IWS Donatra - Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core - A/C OPS Lt Thomas Jackson - 1059) Jackson was now very alert. The recall to the HADES and what he had overheard made him want to head home ASAP! Following Cmdr Lemar and Ensign T'Sol, they headed toward the Transporter area on the Donatra. ~Why did the Romulan Commander give us a head start?~ Jackson wondered as the group hurried to get back home. Maybe the Romulans and the Federation had actually made some progress towards friendship? That thought continued to intrigue Jackson. He had an idea occur to him that he had wished occurred earlier. He knew that with the current situation it would have to wait for calmer times. Jackson was prepared to be the volunteer for his idea. His idea was fairly simple - that of exchanging officers for short tours of duty on the other group's starships. The Federation had done something similar with the Klingon's years ago. (posted by: Bill West) ===================================================================== (IWS Donatra – Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core– Security Officer-T'Sol– 1100) T'Sol had been taking a keen interest in the information that the Command staff of the Donatra was willing to share. Already she had discovered ten intelligence facts that were erroneous. The new information would be useful to the UFP when they returned and were debriefed. Her sharp Vulcan hearing may have been focused on the Romulan Uhlan discussing the capacities of the computer systems on the ship, but she could not possibly miss the urgent sounding communication from Lt. Ammon on the Hades. =^= Sir, this is Lt. Ammon, an emergency has arisen that requires your presence back aboard the Hades =^= Immediately several scenarios presented themselves to her trained Vulcan mind. She summarily discarded several of them as implausible, but then finally settled for the most plausible one. ~Something has happened to one of the away teams. Something which threatens the entire Hades. ~ Her mind then worked through some probabilities and it immediately settled on the Diplomatic aspect of the away team. ~They are in a position to cause the most turmoil if there was an incident~ she reasoned. A moment later Rhian was speaking with Lemar. “It appears, Commander, that I am supposed to demand your surrender for you crimes of attempting to kill our Praetor.” Her suspicions had proven accurate, although she was certain that the accusations were unfounded. She held her ground, although she prepared to defend herself and the remaining members of the visiting team if need be. Just as Lemar was about to start to protest, Rhian beat him to the punch. “Unfortunately, you have just returned to your ship and I was unable to do so," Rhian did not smile, although it was clear this was intended to be a friendly ‘head-start’. “If I were you I would prepare for some hard times ahead” Rhian warned finally. Jonas nodded of and with that Rhian turned, and with first officer in tow, headed out of the area. ~Perhaps there is a chance of salvaging this incident yet.~ T'Sol contemplated, although she realized that they would require additional information to do so. “Ensign T’Sol, lead us back to the transporter room on the double.” Lemar order. "Very well Commander, Lieutenant Jackson, follow me." T' Sol's memory was excellent and she had been making references to their point of embarkation constantly during the entire time that they had been touring the Romulan ship. While the route she selected may not have been the most direct route available to someone with complete knowledge of the Donatra's deck plans; It was the most direct utilizing the knowledge that T'Sol possessed. Only a few minutes had passed before they were stepping into the Transporter room. The same one in which they had arrived for their tour a few hours prior. (posted by Daniel Greene) ===================================================================== (IWS Donatra – Deck 23, Tertiary Computer Core– A/C OPS - LT Tom Jackson - 1101) "Lead on Ensign" Tom replied vent's asked him and Commander Lemar to follow. (reply: any present) Tom was glad T'Sol had kept track of where they had been. The Ensign swiftly lead them back to the transporter area. The urgency in the call from the HADES worried Jackson. He hoped they'd get more information when back on board. ~How could things have gotten so out of hand so quickly?~ Tom wondered. Had they been setup from the start? So many questions and few if any answers. (Posted by: Bill West) ===================================================================== (USS Hades – Deck 10, Temporary Armoury – SO Lieutenant Tarus Daban – 1101) As Daban reached the section designated for the armoury in the temporary set up that was now the security offices, he had quickly grabbed a standard kit belt, fitted with many of the tools needed for an away mission. Along with his tricorder and hand phaser, he also had a number of spare power-cells, as well as more precise and advanced tools that could be used in conjunction with the tricorder to allow for greater scan and detection. =^= Its sketchy. They are telling us our other science team members are safe, but it wouldn't hurt for you and your team to check on them. They do indicate that one of our science officers has been killed. Our monitoring signals confirm that it is Lt. Carrow =^= The news was unfortunate, but it didn’t deter Tarus from his task. He was a professional, and although his charge had been to ensure the away teams were protected, clearly he had failed in one count. He intended to make sure that was the only fail on his record this day. Deciding to take along his favoured plasma rifle, he made a note to swing quickly back by his office to pick it up. “Very well. Once the incident site is secure we will endeavor to reach them.” =^= I would also like for you to check on the Ambassador and her group in the Capital City and inform them of what has happened. They left earlier today for some sort of breakfast meeting with the Praetor. We still are getting life signs signals from them but I want you to confirm their status yourself if you would =^= Tarus sealed the armoury and made his way back toward the security offices. “I will be certain to make that one of our prorities Lieutenant. I did notice that the readings from their bio-monitoring implants had gone offline, but I haven’t been able to speak with anyone on the surface regarding this.” =^= Those dampening fields may have been increased =^= said Maraht, offering a possible explanataion for the apparent malfunction in their equipment. =^= We haven't been able to get through to the Ambassador for a while now and they are trying to put me off due to security reasons. Report back as you confirm the science teams and Ambassador's group status =^= By now, Tarus Daban had reached his office, and after only briefly stepping in to pick up his rifle, which was standing near to the door, he slung it over his shoulder and jogged toward the tubolift. =^= Do what you can to gather any evidence possible at the explosion site. Three medical team members will be joining you shortly to beam down with you. They will be collecting the body for transport back to the ship. Set your phasers to stun. Keep them and yourselves safe =^= “Yes Lieutenant. I promise you that no more of our people will die today.” Tarus reached the turbolift in under a minute and stepped inside. He knew it was a large promise to make, and one that he could only uphold if the Romulans were going to play nice. As the cab set off toward the nearest transporter room, he couldn’t help but wonder how high those odds were stacked against him. =^= Very good Lt. Taurus. Maraht out =^= (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (USS Hades – Deck 5, Transporter Room 1 – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1103) As the white sparkles dissipated from Jonas’s vision, the familiar view of the transporter room had appeared all around him. As he stepped forward toward the edge of the raised pad, he was greeted with a smile from the transporter chief. “Velcome back commander,” he said, before deactivating his controls and stepping away from them. Jonas gave a nod of thanks, and then looked around to rest of his team. “Let’s get to the bridge. From the sounds of things, we could all be of use there.” (reply: Jackson, T’Sol) “Good idea Commander. If needed, I can coordinate the efforts with the chief from there.” The bouncy engineer was clearly glad to be back, however, she wished it would be under different circumstances. She was as keen as Jonas to find out what was going on. Jonas gave a sharp nod and immediately set off into the corridor. As he stepped out, he almost ran right into Jason Miller, his Yeoman and assistant. “Woah there Jona...” started Miller, until he noticed the others file out of the transporter room after Lemar. “...commander.” “Miller!” Jonas said, stepping aside and continuing down the corridor. “Glad you’re here. Fill me in what’s been happening.” Miller quickly joined the fast moving group of officers, and began to feed them all the information he had available. (reply: any) (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (USS Hades – Deck 5, Transporter Room 2 – SO Lieutenant Tarus Daban – 1103.5) As Daban fast approached the doors to the transporter room, he quickly slowed to a walk and stepped inside. Still in good shape, he had not broken into a sweat, and even managed to keep his breathing to only just above normal. It seemed that his regular exercise schedule was keeping him in good enough shape for the job. Just a few seconds later he was joined by Ensign Fletcher and Lieutenant Morris. They were both kitted out similarly to him, although both of them had only hand phasers for protection. Tarus was happy with this, and as he stepped up to the pads he was pleased that Fletcher and Morris fell in behind him without further orders. “Set coordinates for the Romulan Institute. Put us down at a safe distance from the explosion.” Tarus gave the order and followed it with a sharp nod. The ensign at the console obviously understood, and soon the security team of three had dematerialised. (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (USS Hades - Deck 5, Transporter Room 1 - SO, Ensign T'Sol - 1104) To say that T'Sol was relieved to have returned to the Hades without incident would be to admit that she had some feelings about the outcome of things in one fashion or another. So instead of making that concession to herself, she instead decided to consider the logical aspects of their return. It was illogical for the Commander of the Donatra to have allowed them to return to the Hades. By doing so he had risked his career and perhaps his life all upon the supposition that he believed the Hades crew members to have been innocent of the crimes of which they were accused. It was an illogical choice that made no sense to her logical mind. Why should he risk something as important as the lives of himself and those members of the six warbirds n a supposition? Logic dictates that the Hades would not allow themselves to simply be arrested for a crime that they had not committed. Perhaps they might if they had been commanded by a Vulcan Captain who could see the logic of surrendering, but Lemar was no Vulcan and he had a tendency to make his decisions based on emotional responses called hunches. "Let's get to the bridge. From the sounds of things, we could all be of use there." Lemar commanded. T'Sol did not point out to the Commander that his statement was redundant and that it was apparent that the bridge was the best location for the three officers to be. One thing that she had learned about humans was that in certain stressful situations, some humans felt better when they spoke about the obvious. It was as if they were simply reaffirming the facts of the situation and conveying their understanding of the scenario to those around them. T'Sol followed Lemar and Jackson to the Bridge. With Trinin on the planet, she was the defacto Chief of security, but only because he had ordered her to be responsible for the safety of the ship during his absence. As they exited the Transporter room and moved into the corridor, Yeoman Miller joined them and at prodding from the Commander, began to relate the latest details of what was happening to the team as they headed for the Bridge. (posted by Daniel Greene) ===================================================================== (USS Hades - Deck 1, Bridge – CTAC Lt. Ammon Ranae - 1106) Maraht seemed relieved that Ranae had got to speak with the commander, stating what the CTAC was sure everyone there felt, that the aCO would be back shortly and asked Ranae when he would return. "I would imagine any minute now, Sir." Ranae replied, as plenty of time had passed to allow for Cdr. Lemar's transportation back. Maraht charged Ensign Fredericks with continuance of hailing the Capital City, to which Fredericks replied that they were refusing to acknowledge. Maraht insisted that Frederick be persistent in hopes the Romulans would tire of it and answer to stop the annoyance, which made sense to Ranae, but somehow she didn't think it would work. ~ If I was the Rommies I'd just mute it! ~ "Analysis Lt. Ammon. If things come down to it, and this is a possibility I pray to the Great Lava we will avoid, in a potential ship to ship battle, how would the Hades do against six Romulan warbirds?" asked Maraht. "What might be our chances?" "If we could get into tri-vector mode then the odds would be cut down 2 to 1. However given that we are closely confined by the Romulan ships it would be dangerous, though not entirely impossible for us to do so, and with the TIHS on this Bridge and the Acheron's Bridge, that brings the odds up even better for us due to the time response of the system to the operators' movements being practically instantaneous, we could get several shots off before the warbirds could react." Ranae shrugged, "I reckon the odds would be closer to 3 to 5 under those circumstances, but we would have to make a quick getaway or we would be swiftly overrun by ships from other parts of Romulan space and even the planet." The CTAC sighed heavily. "We'd kick their butts good Maraht, but we'd only be delaying the inevitable, still it would buy us some time to inform Starfleet of the situation before they destroyed us." "I see." Maraht carefully maneuvered the dais steps and came closer to Ranae. In a soft low voice he asked, "Ranae, you and Lt. Trinin have a special bond of some sort, don't you? Can you sense anything from him in anyway? Surely his ideation has not….. ceased." ~ Why would he think that Baylon's thinking process might have ceased? He's not dead! ~ "I do not believe his ideation has ceased, only Lieutenant Carrow's has, as to whether I can sense anything, I suppose I could try to, though I doubt I could at such a long distance away from him." Any further discussion on the matter was cut short by the return of Commander Lemar who immediately relieved Maraht of the CONN. He had an air of concern about him, which was well warranted if he had heard the bad news. (reply: Maraht) "Lieutenant Ammon, set condition yellow throughout the ship. I want weapons charged, but keep them on standby for now. I have it on good information that things are going to take a turn further for the worst." "Aye Sir, yellow alert instigated, and begging your pardon Commander, I already took the liberty of having the weapons hot to go and on standby." The yellow lights began to flash rhythmically as Lemar asked Maraht what the status was of their teams on the planet. Ranae thought about Baylon and focusing on an image of his face in her mind, she tried to reach across the distance between them, anything was worth trying. (posted by Sal) ===================================================================== (Romulus – Tal’Shiar Secure Facility, Temporary Cells – Senator Terrh & Ambassador Frazier – 1106) In no time at all, Ambassador Frazier was returning to her former self, aside from a thumping headache that seemed to be made worse by her lack of empathic ability. She felt an icy cold sensation when she was separated from it, and although she had managed quite well the previous day, right now in this situation she wished she had it back, to help her feel safe, to help her feel normal. “It seems Ambassador that we've been framed for the attempted murder of the Praetor, assuming he is still alive. If he is not, then I am assuming the charges are for his assassination...” Baylon Trinin started to explain, but without taking away his attention from the Senator in his grasp. Even without her empathic powers, he could sense the security officer was angry about something, and Bree had a hunch that it was a little more than the fact that they had been temporarily incarcerated. “...The explosion was caused by a Federation Mark II Tactical Stun Grenade,” Baylon continued, “we were brought here for holding and our diplomatic immunities revoked. I was just discussing the nature of our relationship with the Senator, here. We are trying to define exactly how he can be of use to us at this point.” Terrh struggled to swallow the lump in his throat. He felt very tense, as if the security officer were actually holding him by the throat. He wasn’t certain if it were his own imagination, or if the raging telepath had implanted some kind of suggestion or feeling. “I am sure, you do not realise who you are dealing with. Do you realise what position I hold?” As his glare moved from his aggressor and to Brianna Frazier, an element of pleading came in. ~Stop this fool~ he thought to himself, willing the Ambassador to do something. (reply: Trinin) This was all starting to get too much for Bree. She finally decided to move away from the wall and have a go at standing without an aid. She was not disappointed as she kept her balance quite easily, stepping over the body on the floor and made her way toward the two. “Please Baylon, this isn’t solving anything.” She looked at the scene of two unconscious guards and a Senator pinned up against the wall. Things didn’t look good, whether they were guilty or not. “How do you think this is going to look for us? We don’t stand a chance at clearing our names if you harm him.” As Terrh looked back at Trinin, he realised what route the Ambassador was using to make the man hear her. Still, he couldn’t help himself as he still wanted to keep the upper hand. “If you don’t think of yourself, then think of your ship and crew.” His eyes narrowed as he issued his final threat, “Harm me, and it’s the end of the line for the USS Hades. My people will make sure of that.” (reply: Trinin) Bree looked at the Senator with a scolding look and shook her head. ~That isn’t helping you idiot~ He red curls still managed to retain their bounce, despite the dirt and sweat that now caked them. She moved them away from her eyes with her hand, and then reached out to touch Baylon on the shoulder, “Come on Lieutenant. Let’s all talk about this like the civilised people we are...” she then shot her glance toward Terrh, “alright?” she added. Terrh had little choice at this moment, and after a few moments of inner conflict, he gave a sharp nod of agreement. Then the two of them waited, in a hope that either had managed to get through to the officer enough for this tense situation to be diffused...at least temporarily. (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (Romulus - Tal'Shiar Secure Facility, Temporary Cells - CSEC, Lt. Baylon Trinin - 1107) "I am sure, you do not realize who you are dealing with. Do you realize what position I hold?" Terrh asked as if attempting to intimidate him by reminding him of the power that he held inside the RSE. "I am very aware of who you are senator. Perhaps you have forgotten that I recognized you and even extolled your deeds at our first meeting." Baylon replied rhetorically. Ambassador Frazier moved closer to the two of them, stepping over the unconscious form of the Romulan guard that Baylon had disabled. "Please Baylon, this isn't solving anything." She pleaded, "How do you think this is going to look for us? We don't stand a chance at clearing our names if you harm him." Baylon nodded. Frazier was getting right down into the Good Cop- Bad Cop routine like a pro. Of course, Baylon had no intention of harming the Senator, he was just trying to buy them some time, so that he could think and maybe figure a way out of this situation. He'd be damned if he were going to be put through a sham of a trial for a crime that he didn't commit just because someone else wanted to usurp power. "If you don't think of yourself, then think of your ship and crew." His eyes narrowed as he issued his final threat, "Harm me, and it's the end of the line for the USS Hades. My people will make sure of that." Baylon tensed at the Senator's words. Now he had gone beyond threatening the away team, now he was threatening Ranae and the rest of his friends. Baylon's eyes narrowed and he leaned in close enough to the senator so that Baylon's lips were hovering just above the Senator's right ear. "If even one member of the Hades crew is harmed, you'd better hope I am dead, because you will suffer for the rest of your days, when I am finished with you Senator." He whispered. Frazier reached out and touched Baylon on the shoulder. "Come on Lieutenant. Let's all talk about this like the civilized people we are..." she then shot her glance toward Terrh, "alright?" she added. Baylon stepped back, to his arm's length, still keeping his fingers pressed against the Senator's forehead, then in a moment of surrender, he took one additional step back, and using his foot flung the operational Romulan disruptor, dropped by the second guard, airborne and snatched it out of the air. He toyed with the idea of just shooting the Senator with it for a moment, but chose instead to turn it over in his hand. making it obvious that he wasn't planning on using it. He looked at Frazier. "Is this what you want, Ambassador? You want the balance of power restored so that we can discuss things like civilized people?" (reply Frazier) "Very well. I may not like it, but I'll do as I'm told." Baylon replied to her. He held the disruptor out to the senator. "For both our sakes Senator, I hope we can resolve this peacefully. You'll have no more trouble from me." (posted by Daniel Greene) ===================================================================== (USS Hades – Deck 1, Main Bridge – FO Commander Jonas Lemar – 1108) Jonas was pleased to back on the Hades, returning to the thick of their ordeal in Romulan space. Although he had enjoyed his tour of the Romulan ship, as well as the friendly demeanour he had shared with Commander Rhian, he missed the constant vigilance that was required of a command officer on a busy ship like the USS Hades. ~I better keep that to myself~ thought Jonas, knowing that Wendy would call him a workaholic. He was already in bad-books with her because he had put his work priorities before his private life. As the cab doors opened, Jonas stepped out part way through a conversation being had between Lieutenant Maraht and Lieutenant Ammon. Maraht’s vox was pointing toward her and he had said in his usual metallic tones, “...Ranae, you and Lt. Trinin have a special bond of some sort, don't you? Can you sense anything from him in anyway? Surely his ideation has not…..ceased.” (reply: Ammon IYW) “Lieutenant Maraht, I hereby relieve you of the CONN.” His face was stern with concern. Inside, he was pleased that the bridge appeared to be in one piece, although from the dribs and drabs of information he had been fed, likewise could not be said for the away teams on the surface. Of course, Jonas knew this wasn’t Maraht’s fault, and was sure that the Horta had done his best under the circumstances. (reply: Maraht) Jonas’s first worry was for the safety of the ship. He had been given a cryptic warning by Commander Rhian, and it sounded like the USS Hades was in for hard times. “Lieutenant Ammon, set condition yellow throughout the ship. I want weapons charged, but keep them on standby for now.” He knew that he hadn’t offered much in the way of explanation but added, “I have it on good information that things are going to take a turn further for the worst.” (reply: Ammon) As the yellow lights began to flash around the brightly lit bridge, Jonas could hear Dana Travis in the background checking in with engineering. “Lieutenant Maraht, what is the status of our people of the ground?” He looked over at the Horta Lieutenant, who was working with Ensign Fredericks and Lieutenant Jackson to decide who should take on what responsibility. (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (USS Hades - Deck 1, Bridge – COPS Lt. Maraht - 1109) "I do not believe his ideation has ceased; only Lieutenant Carrow's has. As to whether I can sense anything, I suppose I could try to, though I doubt I could at such a long distance away from him," replied Ranae. Before Maraht could reply, then the lift doors opened, and Commander Lemar stepped out onto the Bridge. "Lieutenant Maraht, I hereby relieve you of the CONN." Maraht felt immediately relieved. Command was a huge burden he would rather not have to shoulder as a boulder if he could help it. It's immense weight of responsibility might crush him. Commander Lemar continued to give out orders. "Lieutenant Ammon, set condition yellow throughout the ship. I want weapons charged, but keep them on standby for now." He added, "I have it on good information that things are going to take a turn further for the worst." (Reply Ammon) As the yellow alert went through the ship, Maraht moved over to replace Ensign Fredericks and detected the welcome presence of Lt. Tom Jackson. With dignified glee, he directed his able assistant over to the extra OPS station to have him keep a constant check on the force fields acting as hull for Deck 5. If there was to be trouble, he wanted to have that section of the ship monitored carefully and the power levels controlled at all times. He trusted Lt. Jackson implicitly. (Reply Tom Jackson) "Lieutenant Maraht, what is the status of our people on the ground?" asked the First Officer. Maraht shifted smartly into place at the main OPS station. He began his report. "There was a class 5-e explosion at the science institute and then Lt. Carrow's biosigns from her implant went offline. According to Subcommander N'lar, he did confirm that we lost one of our crew but said he was unsure as to which one. I am surmising that it was Ardena Carrow." "He also said that all our other Science officers were at other sites, one geologically unstable with a high amount of interference, hence why we have been unable to contact them ourselves. Since they are allowing three security and three medical officers down to the planet I have dispatched them with Lt. Taurus Daban in charge. I gave him orders to do what he could with his team to investigate and confirm the death, ascertain the safety of the science teams and find out the status of the Ambassador's group that was with the Praetor." "The Ambassador groups' implants have also gone offline but we can still pick them up on sensors as beneath the surface of the planet, but little else as to their actual condition. At this point the Romulans say all our people are safe, but I have yet to speak to any of them. They were unwilling to allow me to speak to Ambassador Frazier or any of her group, citing security reasons and that they were with the Praetor who was not to be disturbed. That is all we know Sir," concluded Maraht. The Horta did not mention Uhlan Kael who had called him a filthy rock, feeling it was beneath his dignity to sink as low as she had. If he ever had occasion to deal with her again, he might have a few choice words to say to her and her superior officer. He was no ignorant untutored pebble. He had worked hard and served well to get this far and it wasn't due to a lack of intelligence or wearing a lot of mud. (Posted by Sheila) ===================================================================== (USS Hades - Deck 1, Main Bridge -SO, Ensign T'Sol - 1109) As the doors hissed open T'Sol could almost intuitively sense the high levels of stress from the officers on the bridge. Lieutenant Maraht and Ammon were discussing the situation when the three entered and so T'Sol slipped quickly towards the Security Station relieving the bridge specialist stationed there. Lemar quickly reassumed command and ordered the Yellow Alert placing the weapons on standby in anticipating the upcoming assault by the Romulan warbirds. T'Sol regarded her LCARS as Maraht advised Lemar on the status of the away team members. She issued a series of commands to the security teams. And he ordered the areas where the earlier explosion had breached the hull completely evacuated and depressurized. That was an obvious weak point in the ship's hull and would certainly be targeted by Romulan ship's should a conflict develop. He preparations would reduce the needless loss of life and minimize the damage that could be caused as a result of the exploitable weakness. The situation was not a good one. The odds were stacked against them and T'Sol estimated a 67.35821% chance that the Hades would be destroyed with all hands, should hostilities escalate much further. T'Sol could not calculate how long Commander Rhian would retain command of the Donatra and along with that ship the small taskforce of Romulan ships that surrounded them. "Commander, Security has reported that they are at maximum readiness. I have evacuated the damaged sections of the ship and had those areas depressurized to minimize potential damage should the situation turn abrasive." She reported. "I am standing by for further orders." (posted by Daniel Greene) ===================================================================== (USS Hades - Deck 1, Bridge – A/C OPS Lt. Tom Jackson - 1110) As the yellow alert went through the ship, Maraht moved over to replace Ensign Fredericks and detected the welcome presence of Lt. Tom Jackson. With dignified glee, he directed his able assistant over to the extra OPS station to have him keep a constant check on the force fields acting as hull for Deck 5. If there was to be trouble, he wanted to have that section of the ship monitored carefully and the power levels controlled at all times. He trusted Lt. Jackson implicitly. Tom smiled at his Horta friend " Sure thing Lieutenant" and sat down at the OPS console. His hands gliding over the input checking everything as ordered. A thought occurred to him that he belonged here on a starship. He wasn't concerned about getting a command anymore. (reply: Maraht IYW) Like many young cadets, he had dreamed he'd command a starship but as he grew in service time and experience he had mellowed a bit in that regards. Memories of the Nimitz;s destruction had also aged him and he was not as cavalier as he had been. He had on last thought before reality crept back in - Would he ever get to be an explorer and not just a warrior. He hoped he'd get the chance.Keeping an eye on his readouts, Tom listened as Maraht reported to Commander Lamar. The situation was grim. There had been what seemed like an assassination attempt on the Prator, several people injured and the status of the AWAY Teams in doubt. What would come next? (Posted by: Bill West) ===================================================================== (Romulus – Institute of Advanced Scientific Studies, Courtyard – SO Lieutenant Tarus Daban - 1110) After being set down on the ground, Tarus squinted his eyes slightly to adjust to the Romulan daylight. He was not surprised to see the area filled with numerous Romulan personnel, what appeared to be both civilian and security forces. Tarus was a little surprised that they had cordoned the area off more, and instead assumed that those he had thought were civilians, were in fact scientists and medics. Tarus could see clear scorch marks on the patterned marble, darkening toward the centre of the flash-point. And then, even from this distance, Tarus could see a small group of people surrounding what could clearly be seen as a charred corpse. ~Carrow~ he thought with a pang of regret. He looked around slightly to see that Morris and Fletcher were right there behind him, so with a nod he issued them their silent orders, and both officers moved off to examine the area for themselves. As Tarus made a move toward what he assumed to be an official, he noticed another shimmer of light nearby to where he had beamed in. The Hades medical teams had arrived, but instead of standing to examine the area like he had, they had dashed over to the blast point without any hesitation. “Excuse me, stand back,” he heard the familiar voice of Doctor Ru’nat bark to the nearby Romulans. It seemed that she was not scared of making good impressions, and Tarus had to admire her for that. Clearly, she had a job to do and she didn’t care what others thought of her for it. As Tarus approached what seemed to be a Centurion or guard of some description he asked, “I am Lieutenant Tarus, USS Hades. Are you in charge of this scene?” The officer regarded Tarus for a moment before standing tall, and broadening his shoulders he replied, “I am Centurion Donesh, and yes, I am in charge here.” Even though he was speaking to Tarus, his eyes darted all over the scene, keeping a keen eye on everything that was going on, including where the other Federation security officers were moving to. He would have preferred to handle this himself, but inviting Federation security to the scene had been a necessary evil. It was their crewman that had died after all. Tarus ignored the display of showmanship that Donesh offered with his stance. He was not here to compete, but to ensure the safety of his own people. “I need complete access to all data you have pertaining to the explosion. As well as that, I would like all these none-security personnel cleared from the area. Each and every one of them could be contaminating the scene as we speak.” It was now that Donesh offered his undivided attention. ~Seems like I have one here~ he thought, keeping the smile from his lips. “We are already working to remove non-essential personnel. As for the data, this is a matter for internal security, though I am sure they will share their conclusions with you in time.” Luckily, Tarus was not one to be easily riled. “I assume we have freedom to conduct scans of our own?” Tarus unclipped his tricorder and help it up to show the Centurion. “You are free to examine the scene with your own equipment. My officers will not obstruct you unless you try to enter a classified area.” Donesh offered a smile, then returned his gaze to examine the goings on of the scene. With that, Tarus stepped away and activated his tricorder. He made a few adjustments to examine the residual radiation levels of the scene and began to do a wide area scan. As he did so he tapped his comm. badge, “Tarus to Hades.” (reply: T’Sol) Tarus was not surprised to hear Ensign T’Sol answer his hail. The away team must have beamed back from the Romulan ship as soon as they heard the news. That also meant that Commander Lemar was probably back in command. In that, Tarus found a little comfort. For all that he liked and respected Lieutenant Maraht, he felt that a situation like this as too tough for the Horta to keep it together without forming a few cracks. He decided against expressing his good feelings that the Ensign had returned. They would be lost on her anyway. “We are the blast sight and medical teams are assessing the body as we speak. Initial results confirm that this is the body of Lieutenant Carrow. I’ve got Fletcher and Morris already getting familiar with the scene and taking scans.” Tarus reported, turning back toward the scene of the blast. (reply: T’Sol) “The Romulan in charge here is a Centurion Donesh. He seems amiable enough, so I’m going to see if he will arrange for me to have contact our other people on the ground. I’ll report again once I have more information.” (posted by Dave) ===================================================================== (USS Hades- Bridge - SO Ensign T'Sol - 1112) Despite the likeliness of conflict between the Hades and the elements of the Romulan fleet escorting her, T'Sol found herself scanning the site of the explosion which had claimed the life of Lieutenant Carrow. The scans, although more powerful than the ones that could be performed by the away team on the surface, would only reveal technical data. They could determine for example the exact chemical or radioactive components used in the device. the could sample the thermal distribution to determine the more specific compounds as well as the shape and placement of the device as well. What they could not do was ascertain non-scanable data, such that certain members of the security staff might call a hunch. Coordinating the security arrangements on the Hades at this stage was little more than preparatory. Until the Romulans boarded or attempted to board the ship, there was little more that T'Sol could do other than monitor the situation. therefore to maximize her productive contribution to the situation she was running all sorts of scans. That data she would soon transmit down to Lieutenant Tarus. =^=Tarus to Hades.=^= the comm. chimed. T'Sol tapped her commbadge. "T'Sol here, go ahead Lieutenant" =^=We are the blast sight and medical teams are assessing the body as we speak. Initial results confirm that this is the body of Lieutenant Carrow. I've got Fletcher and Morris already getting familiar with the scene and taking scans.=^= "Understood Lieutenant." T'Sol replied. "I will notify the Commander that the identity of the body is confirmed as belonging to Lieutenant Carrow. Have you made contact with the site coordinator?" =^=The Romulan in charge here is a Centurion Donesh. He seems amiable enough, so I'm going to see if he will arrange for me to have contact our other people on the ground. I'll report again once I have more information.=^= "Again understood. proceed with extreme caution. consider that those responsible might anticipate our response to the situation and may use the opportunity to cause further injury or death to members of our away teams. Please keep us advised of your progress, frequently." (posted by Daniel Greene) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Science Officer Ensign (jg) Apollo Stephens - 1905) Apollo was glad he had come to see his friends. Smiling slightly at Eoin, Yuri and Lo'ren, Stephens wondered what the future had in store for them all. While he was envious of their assignments to the HADES, Apollo had done so checking on his ship, the Einstein. The ship was an older Oberth class vessel and had seen a lot of 'interesting' things over it's time. He knew he'd get his shot at a bigger, flashier vessel in time. "Hey, got any Romualn Ale?" he asked smiled broadly at the others. (reply: Eoin, Yuir or Lo'ren) He looked over at Eoin and replied "I shall miss all of you when your ships get here". Apollo was the class 'goat' having graduated dead last in their class. Apollo wasn't a genius but a solid, stable officer. (posted by: Bill West) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Ensign (jg) Yuri Abelev - 1911) Yuri watched over the side as his friend swam through the water. He turned to Apollo, "So, I hear you hev been assigned to de Einstein. I hev been assigned to de Centaur. Perhaps we could both apply for tranfering to de Hades. I hev heard great things about her, I would love to be on such a vonderful ship." (reply Apollo) Yuri nodded as he listened to Apollo. Just as he was about to bring Eoin into the conversation, the tall ensign's commbadge chirped and Yuri noted the surprise on Eoin's face. ~He does not know who is also here, and I vas hoping he would.~ =/\=Yeoman McDevish to Ensign Mac Liam.=/\= "Mac Liam here. What can I do for you?" =/\=I have brought a little gift for you by way of apology, I thought it would be a nice thing to do after I have been so terribly rude to you. I am right outside Holodeck 8. May I enter?=/\= "Oh, of course. Come right in." =/\=Acknowledged.=/\= Yuri turned with Eoin and took in the creature standing before him, thinking to himself that she was rather gorgeous, especially with her hair being teased by the wind. ~Ja, she vould be distracting at vork.~ Behind Calley Lo'ren came up and Yuri grinned at her. She teased them all about not joining her in the water, as seemed to always happen. She must have noticed his grin and sought to wipe it from his face. ~Incoming.~ he thought and ducked the towel that was aimed at his head. ~Thank goodness dis is de holodeck, I am not needing to chase that towel.~ He laughed at Lo'ren as she said hello and asked for an introduction. Eoin found his voice at Lo'ren's prompting, "Oh, right. These are some of my classmates. The imposing blond man is Yuri, the brown-haired one is Apollo, and this lady is Lo'ren T'Vof. She is quite possibly my best friend. Guys, this is Calley McDevish. She's stationed here on the Geneva." Yuri smiled and offered his hand, "Hallo, it is nice to meet you, Ms. McDevish. May I say you are velcome to stay and join our little party. I hev brought vhiskey und jumja schnapps, both made using my femily's old traditions. Vould you like to try?" (posted by Lori) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 – Yeoman Calley McDevish – 1913) "Oh, no need. Please, stay, enjoy yourself," invited Ensign Mac Liam. An attractive brunette woman came into view just then, dripping apparently from a swim over the side. She grinned and aimed a towel at Yuri who ducked as it went over the side of the little ship. Calley felt a terrible dismay, but was confused as to why. She wanted to find faults with this man, not meet his girlfriend. ~Shoot but he worked fast. Maybe he was a womanizer?~ She thought she should feel hopeful about it; why did she feel so disappointed? "The water's fine guys, you should try it for once," said the woman cheerfully. "Hi, I don't believe we've met; perhaps Eoin could introduce us?" "Oh, right," said Ensign Mac Liam, bestirring himself. "These are some of my classmates. The imposing blond man is Apollo, the brown-haired one is Yuri, and this lady is Lo'ren T'Vof. She is quite possibly my best friend. Guys, this is Calley McDevish. She's stationed here on the Geneva." Calley nodded at them all, her heart lightening at hearing that the woman was a classmate and a best friend. Her eyes began to sparkle and her mouth widened into a dazzling smile. Part of her mind was aghast and startled at her own reaction, while the sociable part of her mind told the other part to get stuffed. Yuri smiled and offered his hand, "Hallo, it is nice to meet you, Ms. McDevish. May I say you are velcome to stay and join our little party. I hev brought vhiskey und jumja schnapps, both made using my femily's old traditions. Vould you like to try?" "Yes thank you, I would like to taste some soon," said Calley graciously, shaking the bear like man's hand. She was impressed with the groups good manners and friendly attitude. (Reply Yuri Abelev) "But I had no idea that you would all be here, so I only brought one bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream." Calley pulled the medium sized bottle out of the deep pocket of her robe and offered it to Ensign Mac Liam. "Its the least that I could do." (Reply Eoin Mac Liam) "Before I actually imbibe, I would like a swim. The water looks warm and it's good exercise." Turning to the petite brunette, Calley asked, "Mind if I join you in the water for a swim?" (Reply Lo'ren T'Vof) "Let me hang up my robe here somewhere," said Calley looking around. She slipped off the soft cotton robe and hung it up on a handy part of the rigging. Her simple blue and turqoise tank suit with matching sarong displayed her figure at its best, but it was really a test to see if the handsome Eoin Mac Liam was a gentleman or not. She found her cheeks reddening just a bit, but she brushed her self conciousness aside with ease. (Any IYW) "Would anyone else like to join me?" she asked smiling pleasantly at the group of them. (Any IYW) She unwrapped her sarong and tucked it in the deep pocket of her robe so as to not lose it. Reaching down she pulled off her sandals and placed them near her robe. "Is there a ladder I should climb down or do I just jump off the side of the boat?" (Posted by Sheila) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 1915) "Oh, right," said Eoin, "These are some of my classmates. The imposing blond man is Apollo, the brown-haired one is Yuri, and this lady is Lo'ren T'Vof. She is quite possibly my best friend. Guys, this is Calley McDevish. She's stationed here on the Geneva." Yuri smiled and offered his hand, "Hallo, it is nice to meet you, Ms. McDevish. May I say you are velcome to stay and join our little party. I hev brought vhiskey und jumja schnapps, both made using my femily's old traditions. Vould you like to try?" "Yes thank you, I would like to taste some soon," said Calley graciously, shaking the bear like man's hand. She was impressed with the groups good manners and friendly attitude. (Reply Yuri Abelev) "But I had no idea that you would all be here, so I only brought one bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream." Calley pulled the medium sized bottle out of the deep pocket of her robe and offered it to Ensign Mac Liam. "Its the least that I could do." "Oh, thanks very much. You can put it next to the coconut tray. Computer," the computer chirped at him. "shot glasses." A tray full of shot glasses appeared next to the bottle of Bailey's. "Before I actually imbibe, I would like a swim. The water looks warm and it's good exercise." Turning to the petite brunette, Calley asked, "Mind if I join you in the water for a swim?" (Reply Lo'ren T'Vof) "Let me hang up my robe here somewhere," said Calley looking around. She slipped off the soft cotton robe and hung it up on a handy part of the rigging. Her simple blue and turqoise tank suit with matching sarong displayed her figure at its best. Eoin was absolutely stunned at the beauty of this woman, a woman wo he never would have looked at twice were it not for their encounter at the bar. He just stood frozen for a good twenty seconds, until Calley's next question shook him out of it. "Would anyone else like to join me?" she asked smiling pleasantly at the group of them. Still fumbling a bit, Eoin answered, "Uh, yeah, I think I'll join you." He took his shirt off and put it next to the piles of clothing that were already accumulating. "Is there a ladder I should climb down or do I just jump off the side of the boat?" "There is a ladder, but this is a much better way, if you ask me." And with that, he dove over the side. (posted by Spencer) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof- 1916) "Yes thank you, I would like to taste some soon," said Calley graciously, shaking the bear like man's hand. Yuri beamed at Calley, his bit of bravado in greeting her melting into nothing as they shook hands. "Vhen you try de vhiskey, be careful. I call it Moon Blast and it is very strong for those who are not accustomed. Und Please call me Bear." "But I had no idea that you would all be here, so I only brought one bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream. Its the least that I could do." Lo'ren saw the bottle Calley offered. ~Well, that's another addition to our collection, perhaps we should get some Romulan Ale for Apollo.~ "Oh, thanks very much. You can put it next to the coconut tray. Computer, shot glasses." Lo'ren saw a new tray appear next to the rest and thought they had quite the mix of drinks so far. "Before I actually imbibe, I would like a swim. The water looks warm and it's good exercise. Mind if I join you in the water for a swim?" Lo'ren smiled, happy to have someone else who thought a swim would be a good idea. "Sure! I just tested the water now, but I'm ready to go again. I like to use a re-breather so I can watch the fish and see the sights of this Channel, it can be quite breathtaking." "Let me hang up my robe here somewhere. Would anyone else like to join me?" Lo'ren watched Eoin and Yuri both excitedly remove their shirts and stammer that they would join in the swimming. ~How did she do that? Those two never seemed interested in swimming with me.~ She shook her head as she watched the pair. "Is there a ladder I should climb down or do I just jump off the side of the boat?" "There is a ladder, but this is a much better way, if you ask me." Eoin dove of the side of the Dulcinea, and Lo'ren nearly followed suit. She paused for a second, "Are you coming Apollo? The Dulcinea is anchored after all, no need to worry about her drifting. Don't worry about the Ale, I'm sure Yuri can find something later." She teased about Yuri's fondness for strong drinks and the occasional one that was not normally acceptable to bring along. (reply Apollo) Lo'ren dove into the water for the second time, delighting in the delicious feel of the water. She spotted some schools of fish but let them be for now, turning in place to look for Eoin. She spied him a few metres away and waved at him, then kicked her feet as she headed towards the nearby reef and all the fascinating creatures. Music began to form in her head, instruments taking the place of the sights around her. ~A school of Piccolos perhaps, strings for the water and waves...~ Lo'ren hummed as she swam around, her strokes matching the timing of the music she was composing in her mind. She thought she might use a belaklavion to represent herself swimming,. Lo'ren had to add the crash of percussion to her music when Yuri did a cannonball into the water. Being a bit further away she didn't get the full brunt of displaced water but she felt enough of it to roll her eyes in his direction. Yuri shrugged and sheepishly waved at her. She chuckled and kicked towards him, using his shoulders to push her to the surface when she reached him. As they both broke surface she grimaced at him, "I'll have to re-write the whole piece of music now." she laughed and splashed him affectionately. "Sorry, Lo'ren." He splashed her back and they both laughed. Lo'ren tucked the unfinished music away in her mind for another time as she floated in place. She looked around for Eoin and Calley, and possibly Apollo. (posted by Lori) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Yeoman Calley McDevish - 1918) "There is a ladder, but this is a much better way, if you ask me." Eoin dove off the side of the Dulcinea, and Calley, less confident in diving, easily climbed down the ladder and into the water. The water was delightfully warm and clear. Calley could see the shapes of colorful schools of fish nearby. She hadn't felt so carefree and happy in a long time. Swimming over to Eoin Mac Liam, Calley dove under the water and grabbed his foot playfully, giving it a gentle tug. (Reply Eoin Mac Liam) Surfacing nearby, she laughed at his expression. Drawn toward him like a magnet, she swam closer until their faces were almost touching. The sun was setting in glorious colors and he was silouhetted against it, his face in dusky shadow. She caught the glimmer of his eyes. She felt breathlessly exhilarated and her heart was pounding; she attributed it to swimming and getting water in her face. ~I haven't been swimming in a long time,~ she told herself. "So Eoin Mac Liam, how do like Geneva so far?" Her eyes felt caught and held by his and she was unable to look away. (Reply Eoin Mac Liam, room for more if you want) Voices from the boat above carried across the surface of the water. It sounded like Lo'ren T'Vof and the others talking. Then the petite form of Lo'ren was diving into the water. Waving at them, she headed for the nearby reef. Yuri Abelev joined her and thier laughter echoed clearly. "Would you like to join them or should we stay here?" asked Calley, her voice suddenly inexplicably husky. Her throat seemed to almost close in on itself. (Posted by Sheila) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 1919) Eoin dove deep into the warm water, nearly skimming the coral. He gave one kick, and went right up towards the surface. But not before he felt a little tug on his foot. He laughed a little, which caused several bubbles to escape. He immediately went right for the sruface, taking a big breath when he got up. And then he saw the culprit. Surfacing nearby, Calley laughed at his annoyed expression. But he couldn't help to smile as well, sending a playful splash her way. She swam closer to him until their faces were almost touching.He caught the glimmer of her expressive grey eyes. "So Eoin Mac Liam, how do like Geneva so far?" "Well," he said, his voice taking on a silkiness that he didn't quite expect, "it's definitely interesting the Welcome Wagon deals with second impressions." Then the petite form of Lo'ren was diving into the water. Waving at them, she headed for the nearby reef. Yuri joined her and thier laughter echoed clearly. "Would you like to join them or should we stay here?" asked Calley, her voice suddenly inexplicably husky. Eoin didn't say anything at first, but rather planted a tender kiss on her cheek. "Will that answer your question? (posted by Spencer) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Yeoman Calley McDevish - 1920) "Will that answer your question?" asked Eoin after he kissed her. Calley's heart nearly jumped out of her chest when she felt Eoin's lips on her cheek. It was a tender chaste kiss, but it stirred conflicting emotions inside her. She felt an answering desire to kiss him back on more than just his cheek, but her heart cringed in protective fear and waved caution at her. Her mind belatedly rang warning bells and she reminded herself that she was looking for faults to derail her infatuation with this man. She could not forget her original mission in coming here this evening. She needed to remain more vigilant with her heart. She was determined to find out his faults to disuade her heart from engaging so easily. Maybe he was arrogant on certain subjects such as Engineering or some sort of favorite hobby or politics. Could his current gentlemanly ways be a front to get something? Treading water, she hoped her heart would gain more sense before the Engineering ensign left the station. ~D****t! He's acting like a gentleman. He isn't supposed to be! He's supposed to have something about him that is disgusting.~ But she reluctantly had to admit to herself that one didn't find a gentleman around every corner, drat it all.~ Cocking her head on one side, she studied him with a more critical eye. With his hair soaking wet, his ears stuck out, but she found the sight endearing and not at all repellant as it could be with some men. His sparkling green eyes shown out at her, darkened with merely the growing dimness of the setting sun or so she told herself. He had a fine straight nose and a firm chin. He wasn't as classically handsome as Apollo Stephens was, or as well muscled as Yuri Abelev, but he had an indefineable charm that she couldn't quite put a her finger on. When comparing Eoin with other men, he didn't necessarily fall short. Gorgeous Apollo Stephens with his classical good looks appeared to her to be more of a cherry picker, cheerfully flitting from branch to branch, whereas Eoin Mac Liam seemed more of a cherry tree chopper downer. Rousing herself from her thoughts she said, "I guess we could get to know each other better. It's beginning to get dark though and I think we might need to get back on board the ship." Saying that, she felt a sense of loss knowing that they would lose the close proximity of intimacy they had gained by being in the water together. But she wasn't sure she was ready for more of that either. (Posted by Sheila) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof - 1920.5) Lo'ren spotted Eoin and Calley off a short ways in the water and raised an eyebrow when Eoin kissed the dark-haired woman on the cheek. There was a distinct part of her that wanted to go and investigate, possbily ask Eoin what made him do that. She shook it out of her head and floated over to Yuri, "Hey, Bear, looks like Mac's fitting in with the locals." She nodded towards where Eoin and Calley were chatting softly. The husky Russian looked over at them and shrugged, "Vell, he could not stay a monk forever." Lo'ren nudged Yuri playfully and kicked away from him, "Come on, let's give the kids some privacy." She stage-whispered in a voice that would carry over to the two not far away. (reply Calley, Eoin, iyw) She dove underneath the boat and came up on the other side. Yuri chased her and grabbed for her ankle, she fought him off long enough to twist around and dunk his head under the water. Coming up sputtering and laughing he lunged for her again, this time tackling her and dragging her under with him. Lo'ren wiggled free and quickly got around behind him climbed up on his shoulders and sat there when his head came up out of the water again. He grabbed her hand and pulled her over his head into the water again, but didn't release her. Instead he ran a finger down the left side of her face and arm where she had a scar. "I always forget dis scar, it meks me angry to see this on you Lo'renya." "Yuri," she closed her eyes and steeled herself from the memories. She looked at him and pleaded, "Don't bring it up please? You know those times are painful memories for me." He nodded and squeezed her hand in sympathy, "I am sorry." She touched his cheek and turned away, blinking tears from her eyes. Yuri stroked out a few metres to help him cool his anger. Lo'ren watched him and then took a moment to control her own breathing. (posted by Lori) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 1921) "I guess we could get to know each other better. It's beginning to get dark though and I think we might need to get back on board the ship." Eoin was a little surprised at her response. "Well, I suppose we can. There's a good shoreline restaurant on Maui, that way," he said, pointing to the island on the eastern horizon. "We could check that out, if you'd like." He started slowly swimming toward the boat as he waited for her response. (posted by Spencer) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - Science Officer Ensign (jg) Apollo Stephens - 1922) Apollo had left the warm waters and was drying off on the stern of the holographic ship. In a rare mood of whimsy, Apollo called out to the group "here come the love birds!" (reply: any) Turning to Yuri and Lo'ren he asked "Where's a good place to eat?". (reply: any present) Apollo would miss his friends - he had heard his vessel, the Einstein was a few days away. He was sad already. (posted by: Bill West) ===================================================================== (Starbase Geneva - Holodeck 8 - ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof - 1923) Lo'ren climbed the ladder, grabbing a towel. She vigorously dried herself off and wrapped her sheer white sarong around her hips. She turned when she heard Apollo's voice call out. She laughed lightly as Calley and Eoin came up to the words "Here come the lovebirds." Yuri chuckled and offered to tend bar for the group. "Vould anyone like a drink? I am available to serve you." He waggled bottles amiably. Lo'ren eyed the drinks, "Can I have some more of that jumja schnapps please Yuri? Maybe mix in a bit of coconut milk?" The blond ensign-turned-barkeep nodded and mixed her drink for her, handing her a milky, amber coloured drink in a fluted glass. Lo'ren took the glass and tested the mix, "Wonderful Yuri, you never cease to amaze me." Yuri nodded his thanks and went about setting up for his next 'customer'. "Anyone else?" (reply Eoin/Calley/Apollo iyw, room for more) Apollo turned to Lo'ren and Yuri, asking about finding a place to eat. ~Come to think of it, Mutt, that sushi is gone and I'm hungry again... as always.~ "Sounds like a good idea, Eoin where was that restaurant you took us to before? I'm famished as always." (reply Eoin) She sat down near the bow of the boat and leaned back to feel the breeze ripple her hair, watching the stars shimmer in the velvet night sky. She waited for Eoin to give any commands as to rigging the sails. Yuri sat next to her, but rather than watch the stars he watched the rest of those on the boat. (posted by Lori) ===================================================================== End Compile =====================================================================