Compile summary ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stardate: 2408.07.27 (USS Hades- Observation Lounge - CO - Captan Devan Sash- 1659) (Tch'Kairn Orbit - Orbital Station - Command Center- Alpha 1 - 17:10) (USS Hades- Observation Lounge -CMO Angeni O. Windsong-Trommashere- 1715) (Tch'Kairn Orbit - Orbital Station - Command Center, backup conference room- Alpha 1 - 17:18) (Tch'Kairn Orbit - Orbital Station - Secondary Conference Room -Sixth Alpha Sanra- 1719) (USS Hades - Bridge - CSO Jericho Haynes - 1721) (USS Hades- Observation Lounge - CO - Captan Devan Sash- 1730) (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, Alpha 1, 17:31) (USS Hades- Observation Lounge -Sixth Alpha Sanra- 1732) (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, Alpha 1, 17:33) (USS Hades- Observation Lounge -CO- Captain Devan Sash- 1734) (Tch'Kair'n orbit - Orbital station - Meeting Room - Ensign (jg) Robert Walsh 1734.5) (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, FO Commander Eva Straton,17:35) (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, Alpha 1, 17:36) (Tch'Kair, Orbital station- ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof - 1737) (Tch'Kair, Orbital station- ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 17:38) (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, FO Commander Eva Straton,17:38.5) (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital Station, Waste Reclamation Facility, ACSO Ensign (JG) Kenneth McKenzie, 17:39 hours.) (Tch'Kairn orbit, Orbital Station, Waste Reclamation Facility, ATAC Ensign(jg) Lo'ren T'Vof, 17:40 hours.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ begin compile Stardate: 2408.07.27 (USS Hades- Observation Lounge - CO - Captan Devan Sash- 1659) Sash looked up to see Angeni Trommashere step into the room. He couldn't help but return her smile. As she stepped towards him her hand came out and he stood to grasp it. "Captain Sash, it's a pleasure as always, how have you been?" the CMO asked. It had been a while since he'd been to see the CMO, and he knew that she was still concerned about his recovery from the injuries he sustained on the trip to Romulus. The last time they spoke he was, physically, fully recovered. However, he was still having... dreams. He refused to use the term visions, even though there were some who felt that it was what they were. He continued to have the dreams, but less frequently, and they seemed not as intense. And it was not something he wanted to burden his chief medical officer over. He had been avoiding his chief counselor as well, which he knew wouldn't go over well. However, that behavior was nothing new. "I'm doing well doctor," he replied, "thank you for your concern. I hope you've managed to get some relaxation time in as well." Angeni nodded, and then reached into her pocket. She retrieved a small container that Sash instantly recognized. The smile on his face broadened as he recognized the small metalic box. It held the small, sweet drops that the CMO tended to carry with her. She held the box towards him. "I remembered you liking them, and I would not be playing nicely if I kept them to myself." "Indeed," Sash retorted, "I would have to put you up on charges for insubordination." He reached out and took on of the drops. Placing the sweet in his mouth he closed his eyes and smiled. He was not used to eating such a sweet until he had come to the Hades, and he savored the flavor whenever he had the chance. Angeni set the box down on the table, took one for herself from her pocket, then turned to face the window. Sash turned and looked out the window as well. His eyes narrowed as he attempted to focus his gaze further than he knew he was capable of, hoping to see what lay beyond the immediate area of space. "I can never get used to the sight of the stars," Angeni finally broke the silence. "Beautiful, aren't they sir?" Sash nodded as he brought his attention back to their current place. "They are at that. I am often caught between the awe of the beauty, and wonder of what is out there that I have never experienced before, and the fear that what ever we meet might be there is more horrible than I can imagine. And I have a pretty good imagination." Before Angeni could reply the door to the lounge opened again and Darla Wright stepped in. Sash had liked the acting CEO. She was good at her job, but he also knew that she did not like the administrative side of being a department chief. His hope was to soon get a permanant CEO that would ease her burden. Sash and Angeni turned to sit down as the door from opened one more time to admit the Ops chief. The Horta rumbled into the room and joined them at the table, making his presence known with a phalngical motion. Sash sat down and began to go over what his plan was, as far as giving the Waggoshin visitors limited access to the ship, and his concerns about their true purpose for coming aboard. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kairn Orbit - Orbital Station - Command Center- Alpha 1 - 17:10) "Commander the insertion team is ready." An officer barked as Alpha 1 lounged in the command chair with a self-satisfied smile. "The aliens are transporting over." His plans were coming to fruition, some of Sash's senior officers aboard the station and Sash himself in his sights, could things be going any better? The last thought brought its own caution, always better to be sure nothing can go wrong than to throw the dice and expect things to work in your favor which they almost invariably never did. The insertion team knew their orders but did they know them perfectly? This gave him pause, better to lose face for a moment than to let this ship slip from his clutches. Alpha 1 turned to the cringing communications tech. "Inform the Hades that our team is still being assembled and there will be a delay, I will inform them when we are ready." The techs eyes got wide at that, what was Alpha 1 planning, did he intend to renege on his part of the exchange? No time for foolish questions that could get him gutted. "Aye Commander." Turning to the console he engaged the system and prepared the message. Alpha 1 then turned to his internal security officer. "Inform the insertion team to meet me in the secondary conference room now!" "As you will Commander." The Waagoshin yapped. "They will be there within minutes." Satisfied he stood from the chair and moved to the back-up conference room, when the Hades officers arrived they would have a short wait before he met with them, first he had to make sure all contingencies were covered, they could be transported to the Hades directly from the meeting. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Hades- Observation Lounge -CMO Angeni O. Windsong-Trommashere- 1715) Angeni smiled gently at the Captain. She loved the moments where the two of them could sit and chat for a few minutes. She was about to ask if he would join her in Ten Forward after this little get-together was over when the rank smell of decay wafted under her nose. She had been on her fair share of DOA's, and they were all in various stages of...ripening, but that scent could always trigger the gastric reflux to purge the gastrointestinal tract. Angeni went to say something to Captain Sash when the 'wolf pack' walked through the door. She looked over the band, keeping her gaze level and authoritative. She remembered the first time her father had taken her to see the reservations' pack, and she was no more than eight. Walking into the den, she watched her father pick up a pup from its mother without her going beserk. Angeni was so scared that she was going to get attacked or at the least, bitten, that she did, right on the leg as she tried to run in fear from the den. This time, she wasn't going to let that happen. Angeni sat through the tense introductions, and she guarded her gaze, making sure that no one could see that the odor wafting through the room was affecting her. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kairn Orbit - Orbital Station - Command Center, backup conference room- Alpha 1 - 17:18) His 'expendable' officers had been assembled and seated, Sanra who was commanding the expedition appeared to be chaffing at the delay which was to be expected, he knew better than to voice any doubts or frustration to his commanding officer. "You have already received your orders." Alpha 1 snarled from his position at the head of the table. "But your reason for being here is to make sure there are no screw-up's. If you have any questions now is the time to ask them but before we do that I am going to reiterate to you what I expect from this team. I want Captain Sash! The rest of the officers you are to mark are of secondary importance, if you can disable the ships defenses and take them alive so much the better but Sash is the crux of this plan, without him it can all fall to ruins. I don't want t have to piece together their technology from debris." (Reply: sanra) "If you can't take him alive then kill him, the same for their scientific and technical specialists. If you need more men to make sure of this Sanra then apportion them accordingly. I don't care if it's the whole party which it shouldn't take if you do your job correctly. After you have him signal me immediately for extraction, your men then can move on to secondary targets. And above all don't jump and make your move too soon, these aliens are expecting a protracted sharing of information which gives you plenty of time to case the ship and make your move. Are there any questions?" (Reply: Sanra room for as much as needed) "Good enough then." Alpha 1 stood to his feet slowly, the alien commander would be awaiting his arrival but wait she would. "Do not return to me a failure or you will pay the consequences." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kairn Orbit - Orbital Station - Secondary Conference Room -Sixth Alpha Sanra- 1719) Sanra stalked into the command center ready for whatever additional orders that Alpha One would convey to him. He could sense that this was a great opportunity for him to advance in rank and was glad to be considered for the opportunity to strike one of the first blows against the smooth-skinned aliens. His sharp eyes darted from left to right to take in the entirety of the scene before approaching Alpha One. He kept his eyes up until the last possible second before diverting them downward to the floor. It was no secret that Sanra desired advancement, and so to show complete difference to the Waagoshin high commander beyond the expected level of respect would be suicide for his career. Still he did not wish to raise the ire of the supreme pack leader in this sector, that was just as suicidal. The other members of his war band entered after him, as was their place. As the leader of this pack, he would never permit one of them to arrive before him unless he wanted to grant them some sort of special favor. As that was not the case, they had rightful waited for him to take his position before coming into the compartment. Sanra knew that he was considered expendable, all first strike raiding parties were. They would be well within an area without support from the rest of the pack, and so therefore they were expected to be killed. He also knew however that the best war band leaders, those that achieved the greatest positions and rewards had all been seen as expendable throughout their careers until they reached the pinnacle of their positions. An individual member was nothing, it was the pack that mattered. Still being forced to delay the mission start was a bit of an irritation. And though Sanra was unhappy with the decision that Alpha one had made, he was not about to complain about it. "You have already received your orders." Alpha 1 snarled from his position at the head of the table. "But your reason for being here is to make sure there are no screw-up's. If you have any questions now is the time to ask them but before we do that I am going to reiterate to you what I expect from this team. I want Captain Sash! The rest of the officers you are to mark are of secondary importance, if you can disable the ships defenses and take them alive so much the better but Sash is the crux of this plan, without him it can all fall to ruins. I don't want to have to piece together their technology from debris." Sanra snapped a quick bark of understanding. "You'll have him alpha one, and I will bring you some other officers of value. I will see to it that the mission is done as you command or I will personally rip the throats from those too incompetent to follow orders." He said, letting those Waagoshin officers under his command know that he meant business with a low snarl. "I will not fail you." "If you can't take him alive then kill him, the same for their scientific and technical specialists. If you need more men to make sure of this Sanra then apportion them accordingly. I don't care if it's the whole party which it shouldn't take if you do your job correctly. After you have him signal me immediately for extraction, your men then can move on to secondary targets. And above all don't jump and make your move too soon, these aliens are expecting a protracted sharing of information which gives you plenty of time to case the ship and make your move. Are there any questions?" There was not a single junior member of his retinue that would be stupid enough to raise any questions with him in the room, and so Sanra knew that alpha one was actually asking HIM if he had any questions. "None Alpha One, your orders are clear. I will need no more men than the team that you have given me. You will see us successful before too long." He stated evenly, and then lowered his eyes as a sign of respect for the Waagoshin pack leader. "Good enough then." Alpha 1 stood to his feet slowly, the alien commander would be awaiting his arrival but wait she would. "Do not return to me a failure or you will pay the consequences." "If we will fail, then we will not return. It will be death or success. I swear it." Sanra replied honestly. He knew full well that this was an opportunity that he could benefit from. Once Alpha One left the compartment Sanra turned and growled at his warband. They cowered slightly as they should and then Sanra, his dominance established, growled, "To the transporter room." --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Hades - Bridge - CSO Jericho Haynes - 1721) "Lieutenant Haynes, I need to leave the bridge for escort duty. Once I have delivered the Waagoshin to the Observation Lounge and returned to the bridge, you will be free to join them. until then, you have the bridge." Jack's eyes got a little wide as Baylon stood up and removed himself from the bridge, finding himself standing a bit woodenly as he watched the Betazoid enter the turbolift. When the doors had closed he shook himself from the trance and turned to look about the bridge. The officers at their stations went about their duties as always as the CSO watched, oblivious to his chagrin. ~What do you know Jack? The watch is your responsibility for a while.~ He had never taken the bridge on the Belmont but as all officers must do he had studied for the possibility while in the Academy. He opened his mouth and found himself catching the attention of Darius Melbourne who was manning the backup science station. "Mr. Melbourne take science 1." "Aye sir." As the dark haired, fair skinned man slid from his chair and moved to the prime station Jack had a moment of anxiety, the readings being accumulated there were of utmost importance, he should be monitoring them himself. ~Calm down Jack, he can bring you up to date on anything he finds, it's just like if you were in your office waiting on test results. Trust your subordinates... but make sure they know what you expect.~ "Mr. Melbourne watch those readings on the Waagoshin closely and notify me if you see anything out of the ordinary, also keep a close eye on the away teams. I want to know instantly if there is any change in their status or movements." The fellow turned differentially and nodded once. "Yes sir. I'll watch the Waags and the Away teams, any other orders sir?" Jack's brow wrinkled a bit and he took a deep breath. "That will be all for now." Darius nodded and turned to watch the readouts closely letting him off the hook. Jack's head swiveled once more about the bridge before he moved to the command chair, his eyes caressing its contours. Turning then he sat down with a muted sigh and leaned back in the article of furniture. ~Comfy it is.~ With a smile he let his eyes roam about the chamber from this new perspective. ~Don't get too used to it Jack, you're still only a flunky.~ But time and events have a way of thrusting people into unaccustomed roles, something the CSO would find out all too clearly in the coming days. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Hades- Observation Lounge - CO - Captan Devan Sash- 1730) The doors to the lounge opened and the Waagoshin officers entered, followed by Baylon Trinin and two of his men, who stood as honor guards. Sash refrained from smiling at their guests, but nodded at Trinin to make his introductions. "Captain, allow me to present..." Trinan began. He was quickly interupted by the Waagoshin officer. "I am I am Sanra, Sixth Alpha. I am the leader of this war band." Sash stood and frowned. He took a deep breath before speaking. "I see... Sanra, Sixth? Alpha. It is truely unfortunate that your commander couldn't find someone of a higher rank than that to speak for his people. However, I can see how it is that you have not risen higher in the ranks, as you don't seem to have the patience for a proper introduction when meeting the Alpha of another ship. Perhaps your people allow such indescretions, and as such, I will allow your ignorance, and not have you killed where you stand. Lt. Trinin can be much more forgiving than I. However, do NOT take my moment of grace as a sign of weakness...SIXTH Alpha. I brook no disrespect, even from guests on this ship." Before the Waagoshin could reply, Sash nodded and indicated to a seat at the table, across from him. "Welcome to the USS Hades Sanra. Please sit and introduce the rest of your company to us." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, Alpha 1, 17:31) "Commander Straton." Alpha 1 said as he entered the room and took his seat at the opposite end of the table. " I welcome you and your officers to Waagoshin outpost station 5 in the Tch'kira sector, is there anything you would like before we begin our negotiations perhaps? Water or something stronger? Kalya is a bit harsh but will put a yip in your throat." "No. Thank you,"Eva replied evenly, meeting Alpha 1's gaze evenly with her own steely gaze. She wasn't about to accept any drink or food, or anything else that might be drugged. "Who is your officer?" Alpha 1 asked pleasantly. "He needn't look so stern, we are all friends here after all." His mouth split in a grin that showcased his formidable canines. Eva's expression remained impassive. She had seen Zzt smile too many times to be impressed. ~I should have brought the large oaf to show Alpha 1 a truly impressive set of fangs. Zzt would have done something to screw things up, of course, he always does.~ She thought never breaking eye contact with Alpha 1. "Does his presence make you uncomfortable?" She asked, letting scorn creep into her voice. She had witnessed how Sash had handled him and had taken note of the fact that they had not seen a single female Waagoshin since coming on board. "Your *five* armed guards don't bother me, not in the slightest. Surely your not worried about being alone with a single female are you? We are, after all, friends, right?" Eva smiled her own wicked smile. ~Nothing like making him lose face in front of his men.~ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Hades- Observation Lounge -Sixth Alpha Sanra- 1732) The Alpha of this starship rose at the conclusion of Sanra's introduction. It was an unexpected honor to have the alien commander show him so much respect, but then that illusion was shattered. The alien commander was not showing respect he was on the verge of attacking. His anger was apparent. "I see... Sanra, Sixth? Alpha. It is truly unfortunate that your commander couldn't find someone of a higher rank than that to speak for his people. However, I can see how it is that you have not risen higher in the ranks as you don't seem to have the patience for a proper introduction when meeting the Alpha of another ship. Perhaps your people allow such indiscretions and as such I will allow your ignorance and not have you killed where you stand. Lt. Trinin can be much more forgiving than I. However, do NOT take my moment of grace as a sign of weakness...SIXTH Alpha. I brook no disrespect, even from guests on this ship." These words confused Sanra. He had simply followed the protocol that the Waagoshin had used for centuries. Visitors had always introduced themselves. To not be allowed to speak for themselves was considered an insult beyond measure. Still he managed to contain his irritation at the unwarranted slight caused by the alien Alpha of this starship. He forced himself to remember that these smooth-skinned aliens were not Waagoshin and it was now apparent that they had much different protocols than his own people. There was a growl beginning to build at the base of his throat, but Sanra refrained from letting it get the best of him. His mission could not be successful yet. He had to bide his time and brook whatever insults came his way. He could always repay them later. Sash nodded and indicated to a seat at the table, across from him. "Welcome to the USS Hades Sanra. Please sit and introduce the rest of your company to us." The Waagoshin, narrowed his eyes slightly, before deciding to play along. It was normally bad form to allow a guest to sit unless you were good friends. It indicated that you had no fear of them and that you believed that they could cause you no harm. Either this Alpha Male was ignorant, trusting or insulting. It was difficult to tell which it was. To appease his pride and not further damage the relations between them, Sanra decided that the Male named sash was simply trusting or confident. Sanra gave a short nod, then let out a short yip. He stepped forward assuming the offered chair and watched as the rest of his war band took their seats. "My... Apologies Captain Sash. Among my people it is considered an insult to allow another to demean your presence by having them introduce you. It indicates that you are not worthy of personal attention or respect. It seems your ways are very different from our own. I have no intention of disrespecting you. It would be foolish to disrespect any alpha in front of his pack." (reply Sash) "As far as rank is concerned, a sixth alpha is not far down the chain of pack leader ship. The position of fourth and fifth alpha are only ceremonial, although they carry a great deal of respect. A sixth alpha is a war band leader. It is a position similar in some respects to a chief ofsecurity like your lieutenant here." Sanra explained. He knew that his description wasn't entirely accurate, but there was no need to add any further explanation to it. Besides, he wanted the alien commander to believe that he was someone more important than he was. It would aid them in their mission. "These are my men. They are Betas, all of them except for Lozar. Who is An alpha eight." Lozar nodded gently, keeping his eyes properly diverted from the alphas gaze. "Lozar is a specialist on alien culture and physiology. He specializes in alien anatomy and biology. He is an academic member of the band." "These others are the beta members of my pack. From the left we have Gatha, Corv, Nosan, Virox, Tig and Protha." Sanra made a motion to each as he named them off. They like Lozar are specialists in aliens. They are here because of their expertise." Sanra failed to mention that all of them had shown skill in understanding alien technology and alien thinking. He had also failed to convey to the smooth-skinned aliens that all were experts in dealing with non-Waagoshin. They were a response team whose main task was hunting down escaped and desperate slaves and rooting out resistance cells on the worlds that were occupied by the Waagoshin. Their low status was a result only of the fact that slaves were hardly considered worthy adversaries by their superiors. They would all gain status by fulfilling this mission. Some may even become Tenth level Alphas as a result. That meant they all had a desire to do well on this mission. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, Alpha 1, 17:33) The female gave the Waagoshin Commander a stern look in reply. "Does his presence make you uncomfortable?" Alpha 1 took note of her scornful tone despite the language barrier which the translators did not carry. The grating nature of her voice, slightly out of synch with its translated speech made it abundantly clear. "Your *five* armed guards don't bother me, not in the slightest. Surely your not worried about being alone with a single female are you? We are, after all, friends, right?" The female showcased her own diminutive set of ivories. Alpha 1 leaned back in his chair, outwardly unpreturbed save for his ears which had flattened slightly at the intended insult. "I see you have fire in you as well 'Commander', that is good. Negotiations between unequal parties tend to be boring." He turned his head slightly and barked at a subordinate. "Bring the Kalya and pour for both." The guard growled as he glanced at Eva and Walsh but nodded in reply, as he moved to obey the order Alpha 1 returned his attention to the alien. "If you wish to imbide do so, if not refrain. It is traditional. But I am sure you would not wish to scorn our traditions in a peaceful meeting. If it makes you more comfortable I will drink first. " His eyes studied her intently as small ceramic bowls with high bases were set before the two and the amber liquor poured from a caraffe. "As for the guards I am sure you understand taking precautions, had an alien ship penetrated your space I assume you would not lend them unlimited trust at your first meeting, to do otherwise would be foolish." (Reply: Straton) He set the bowl in the palm of his right hand and steadied it gently with his left as he raised it to his mouth. The liquor burned like liquid fire as it hit the throat, its fumes cleansing the palate and and nasal passages. He closed his eyes in exhilaration.and inhaled deeply in response, the air seemed crisper and more alive as it alwas did after a snort. Opening them he studied Eva once again. "It is unusual to see an alien female in a position of authority but not unheard of. Our females remain at home tending their litters, it is an honorable profession and calling." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (USS Hades- Observation Lounge -CO- Captain Devan Sash- 1734) Sash was a little surprised by self control of the Waagoshin. He had figured that his attack on the officer would have been enough to push, what was obviously a predatory race, to the brink of a personal retaliation. However, Sanra backed down with only a little hesitation. There was restraint in his voice. He had assumed that the title Sixth Alpha meant that Sanra was sixth in line for command of a Waagonshin ship. His control belied that this one was either young or ready to make some upward movement in the ranks soon. It also told Sash that there was definitely more to this meeting than met the eye. They all needed to be on guard. Sash listened to the explanation of Sanra as to his own behavior. Sash nodded as Sonra said, "It seems your ways are very different from our own. I have no intention of disrespecting you. It would be foolish to disrespect any alpha in front of his pack." Sash nodded, "Indeed, it is those differences that have prompted, not only this meeting, but also our reason for exploring this part of the universe." Sonra went on to explain his rank, although Sash was of the thought that the Waagoshin might be over stating his own importance. He smiled slightly as Sonra equated himself with Trinin. Sash doubted that Baylon would give him the same assessment. At least, not until they'd had an opportunity to test each others metal. Sonra continued, "These are my men. They are Betas, all of them except for Lozar. Who is An alpha eight." Lozar nodded gently, keeping his eyes properly diverted from the alphas gaze. "Lozar is a specialist on alien culture and physiology. He specializes in alien anatomy and biology. He is an academic member of the band." "These others are the beta members of my pack. From the left we have Gatha, Corv, Nosan, Virox, Tig and Protha." Sanra made a motion to each as he named them off. They like Lozar are specialists in aliens. They are here because of their expertise." Sash looked at the seven companions. He could smell the death on them. It was clear that these were not mere scientists, but he was not willing to dispute that fact right now. He turned his attention to his own people, firts indicating to Trinin. "You have," he began, "already met Lt. Trinin." (reply Trinin, Sonra) Then Sash introduced Angeni, "This is my Chif Medical Officer, Dr. Trommashere." (reply Angeni, Sonra) Sash indicated to Darla, "Lt. Wright is my Chif Engineer." (reply Wright, Sonra) And finally he looked over at Maraht, "And my Chief of ships operations, Lt. Maraht." Maraht waved a phalange at the aliens. (reply Sonra) "As this is a cultural exchange, I'm certain that your people may have questions of us, and I know that we have questions for you. Perhaps we should adjourn to a ... more comfortable, and informal location. We have place of relaxation called 10 Forward. Shall we go there?" The question was academic, as Sash had already intended to make that his next stop. He had had the lounge closed to all off duty personel and ordered a couple of teams of security men to be there, in pretense of relaxing. Sash stood up. "After you, Sixth Alpha." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kair'n orbit - Orbital station - Meeting Room - Ensign (jg) Robert Walsh 1734.5) Robert waited carefully for Alpha 1's response. He didn't make even the slightest motion towards his phaser, and his carefully picked away team also kept their cook. But something felt off. He couldn't quite place it, but the feeling was there. "Does his presence make you uncomfortable?" ~Straton's got guts. I don't like the look of those teeth.~ "Your *five* armed guards don't bother me, not in the slightest. Surely your not worried about being alone with a single female are you? We are, after all, friends, right?" The female smiled, or did something that resembles a smile, but with a lot more teeth. Walsh caught Alpha 1's ears lowering just a little. ~Ah, we have struck a nerve.~ "I see you have fire in you as well 'Commander', that is good. Negotiations between unequal parties tend to be boring." He barked to a nearby Waagoshin. "Bring the Kalya and pour for both." The Waagoshin growled and obeyed, moving to get the drinks. "If you wish to imbide do so, if not refrain. It is traditional. But I am sure you would not wish to scorn our traditions in a peaceful meeting. If it makes you more comfortable I will drink first." The drinks were slowly poured. ~Sure...they've probably built up an immunity or some such crap.~ "As for the guards I am sure you understand taking precautions, had an alien ship penetrated your space I assume you would not lend them unlimited trust at your first meeting, to do otherwise would be foolish." (reply Straton) Alpha 1 drank the liquid, and then issued a loud snort. "It is unusual to see an alien female in a position of authority but not unheard of. Our females remain at home tending their litters, it is an honorable profession and calling." ~Yeah, I'd love to see Straton raising a "litter".~ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, FO Commander Eva Straton,17:35) "If you wish to imbide do so, if not refrain. It is traditional. But I am sure you would not wish to scorn our traditions in a peaceful meeting. If it makes you more comfortable I will drink first. " Alpha 1 said a one of his guards moved to pour the offered drink into two ceramic bowls. "As for the guards I am sure you understand taking precautions, had an alien ship penetrated your space I assume you would not lend them unlimited trust at your first meeting, to do otherwise would be foolish," "Precautions yes,"Eva said, glaring at the guard briefly as he poured the amber liquid into the bowl in front of her before returning her glare to Alpha 1. "Though we would consider five guards excessive under most circumstances. I guess we have a higher opinion of our security personnel's abilities than you do of yours." She shrugged her shoulders dismissively. "No matter. Perhaps we can teach them a thing or two before we leave." She kept her eyes locked on Alpha 1 as she felt the building emotions in the guards in the room. There was one in particular that was having a hard time controlling his growing rage. ~A little more goading and he may just snap, jumping before Alpha 1 is ready.~ Eva thought. "It is unusual to see an alien female in a position of authority but not unheard of. Our females remain at home tending their litters, it is an honorable profession and calling," Alpha 1 said, after taking a sip ofthe Kalya. Eva didn't immediately answer, instead lifting the small bowl of Kalya sitting in front of her. She had detected no deception in Alpha 1 when he had talked about the Kalya being traditionally served at meetings like the one they were engaged in. ~With the level of arrogance he is putting off he thinks he has already won. His personal honor would not allow him to serve a poisoned drink, it would be dishonorable. I will honor this custom of theirs, it may well raise his estimation of us, and it may well incite another emotional response in the guards. An insult to their customs, a female sharing Kalya with their Alpha across the negotiating table. Noting better than to expose his lies than through the actions of his own men. ~honorable profession and calling' yea right. More like 'barefoot and pregnant' in your eyes you piece of crap.~ ~ She swirled the amber colored liquid around in the bowl. She took in the liquors aroma before taking a small sip, knowing better than to gulp. She let the harsh liquor pass over her tongue and down her throat burning as it went. She pursed her lips slightly. ~ A bit like Andorian whisky..~ She thought. "Smooth," She said, putting the bowl of Kalya back down on the table. "Among us, females and males are completely equal. We share the honor of raising our young. Some of our greatest leaders have been female. How did the Waagoshin come to control this area of space?" She kept the smile off her face as she picked up the surge of anger and disbelief from several of the guards at her drinking of the Kalya. A couple of the guards even shifted nervously in place, their hands tightening on their weapons. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, Alpha 1, 17:36) "Smooth," She said as she replaced the bowl. "Among us, females and males are completely equal. We share the honor of raising our young. Some of our greatest leaders have been female. How did the Waagoshin come to control this area of space?" Alpha 1's hearing was too keen to miss the beginning growls and the shuffling of feet of his subordinates, this kind of behavior from the Betas in hs retinue could escalate and cause him to lose face before the alien female and that could not be allowed, and if a hot-headed warrior were to attack the aliens too soon all could fall to shambles. His plans had been too carefully crafted to be dashed by a hotblood, it was time to exert his authority. "One moment and I will answer your question.." His voice was carefully modulated even as his ears flattened against his skull. He turned to the Alpha six who stood behind him. "Kargath keep your men in line or YOU will take their punishment!" His gaze burned hot at the officer who flinched and lowered his eyes quickly to the foor. "Yes Alpha 1." As their leader turned back to the humans his ears slowly rose to a relaxed state even as Kargath turned to each of his warriors in turn and showed his teeth at them with a rumbling growl. This was going on as he answered Eva. "That is a sordid tale." He was at ease once more. "Our explorers to this sector were befriended by a race that promised friendship and enlightenment but they were betrayed. My forebearers exacted punishment upon them and their allies in a long and vicious campaign. This world we are orbiting for example supplied technology and expertise to our enemies and its inhabitants were eventually pacified. Now a question for you." He raised the drink to his muzzle and took another sip then paused before asking as he looked her directly in the eyes. "Why are you and your ship here and what do you hope to gain by meeting with me?" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kair, Orbital station- ATAC Ensign (jg) Lo'ren T'Vof - 1737) Lo'ren kept her eyes open and her ears peeled. She wrinkled her nose occasionally at the varied smells that tended to assault her sensitive nose.The Waagoshin didn't seem to care if they scanned whatever they liked so she had her tricorder out and scanned everything - including surreptitious scans of the baton-like weapons carried by their escort. She kept a careful watch on the quartet that led them about, and was somewhat amused that - for a warrior species - three of the Waagoshin seemed more intent on the lead dog than on them. The lead dog ~Knars, I think.~ bumbled about in comparison to the original escort that had met them at the beam-in site, he also seemed a bit ill at ease, from what, Lo'ren failed to register. As they literally ambled down the hallway, Lo'ren trailed the group a little, while staying close enough to hear what Knars was saying. "And that's why there is only a single language among the Waagoshin. All the speakers of the other forms were killed. when the first Great Alpha merged the packs..." Knars addressed Eoin, and Lo'ren allowed herself to remain in the background - though the linguist in her filed the information to pass along to Counselor Ripley and Commander Straton later. (reply Eoin or McKenzie Room for more) They came across a group of aliens with hairless bodies and Lo'ren observed them as they worked. ~Beautifully coloured skin, interesting eye structure. Angeni would love this.~ Lo'ren was fascinated by the variety of species they'd passed and intrigued by the attitude of most, not to mention she felt somewhat sick. ~I've been here before. Slavery is the same in any location.~ She fought to maintain her composure in the face of the mirror before her. As they appraoched their destination Lo'ren's eyes watered at the stench that assaulted her. She excercised a large amount of discipline to make it appear like nothing was bothering her and found some amusement watching Knars and the other three fail to do the same. "Ah, here we are." he said at last as the small group reached a heavy looking oval shaped door. (reply Eoin, McKenzie) The Waagoshin Beta, reached out with one claw and tapped the access code to the hatch. Lo'ren hadn't stopped her scans the whole time and grinned to herself as she filed away the access code. ~If only we'd had these tricorders in the work camps, would have made rebellion much easier.~ The smell that wafted over Lo'ren nearly bowled her over as the doors opened. Lo'ren turned to the other security officer and silently indicated that he should be sure to stick with McKenzie and she would stay with Eoin if they got separated. Lo'ren had decided on this earlier partly because she and Eoin had worked together so often that they would be able to read each other much faster. "This is the..." Knars nearly heaved as he spoke, "..Waste Reclamation facility. It's where we.... Reclaim waste. There are a number of things that they do here, but I am no technician, so look around this compartment and ask questions if you want. I'll try to answer or find us a Nilgik that can." Lo'ren stayed silent content to let the scienctist and engineer take the lead. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kair, Orbital station- ACEO Ensign (jg) Eoin Mac Liam - 17:38) Eoin followed the Waagoshin named Knars, scanning everything they passed. Being very inquisitive, he was a bit dissapointed that he wasn't getting much beyond general layout. However, he took solace in the fact that the passive scan he and McKenzie had initiated were revealing a lot more than that. He also was engaging in a conversation with Knars over Waagoshin linguistics. "...And that's why there is only a single language among the Waagoshin. All the speakers of the other forms were killed. when the first Great Alpha merged the packs..." he was explaining to him. "Only one language? That's incredible," Eoin said. "On my world, everyone speaks the same single language, but many people also speak other languages. For example, I can speak six or seven languages from my homeworld, some dead, some alive. Even my race's standard language is actually my second language." (reply McKenzie, Knars, room for more) They continued walking down the corridor, toward a department of the base. As soon as that certain smell wafted into Eoin's nose, he knew what it was right off the bat. "Ah, here we are." Knars said at last as the small group reached a heavy looking oval shaped door. Beyond it was the main center, full of pumps, equipment, and filters. Eoin nodded, and braced himself for the horrible smell that waited on the other side of the door. The Waagoshin Beta, reached out with one claw and tapped the access code to the hatch. The door parted midway on the horizontal axis. Eoin peered in, crinkling his nose. He passed the tricorder through the gap once for the readings, before retracting it quickly. He saw that Lo'ren and Ken were not reacting, so Eoin did his damndest to not react to the horrid odour. "This is the... Waste Reclamation facility. It's where we... reclaim waste. There are a number of things that they do here, but I am no technician, so look around this compartment and ask questions if you want. I'll try to answer or find us a Nilgik that can." "I see. I think we all have a good idea what happens here." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital station, Meeting Room, FO Commander Eva Straton,17:38.5) "That is a sordid tale." Alpha 1 said, at ease once more. "Our explorers to this sector were befriended by a race that promised friendship and enlightenment but they were betrayed. My fore bearers exacted punishment upon them and their allies in a long and vicious campaign. This world we are orbiting for example supplied technology and expertise to our enemies and its inhabitants were eventually pacified. Now a question for you." He raised the drink to his muzzle and took another sip then paused before asking as he looked her directly in the eyes. "Why are you and your ship here and what do you hope to gain by meeting with me?" Eva could sense the deceit in Alpha 1 and knew he wasn't telling the truth. Lying to an empath was near impossible, especially one of Eva'scaliber, but she made like she believed every word. She also took note of Alpha 1 re-exerting his authority over the guards in the room. Eva was careful to keep her expression neutral as threatening growls and bared teeth were directed toward the emotionally charged guards by the officer Alpha 1 had conversed with briefly. The guards anger was quickly replaced with fear and Eva knew her chances ofgetting one to jump prematurely was now almost nil. ~I would have to overtly manipulate their emotions by projecting aggressive emotions, not something I am going to do in this situation.~ "Chatter," Eva said, picking up her bowl of Kalya and taking another sip. ~One lie deserves another.~ She thought. "Actually, a lot of it. One of our deep space probes picked up a lot of subspace chatter in this area of space. This indicated that their must be an advanced spacefaring civilization in this sector of space. Our ship was sent to make contact in hope of opening diplomatic relations. The bulk of the subspace chatter was centered around this planet so it made sense for us to head directly here in order to make contact. Meeting with you, as the commander of this sector, is only logical if we wish to open diplomatic and potentially trade relations. I think our two civilizations would have a lot to offer one another. Take Kalya, for instance, it is similar to a drink from the Federation called Andorian Whiskey. I'd think you'd like it, or perhaps you'd like a barrel of another drink referred to as BloodWine?" Eva decided to take a chance and see if there were any true telepaths on the station. She was pretty confident the Waagoshin were not telepathic, as their minds were so poorly shielded. She was unsure about any of the other races that might be on board though. She reached out and zeroed in on the only other telepath in the Away Team. ::Ensign T'Vof,:: She sent, ::Report.:: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Tch'Kair'n orbit, Orbital Station, Waste Reclamation Facility, ACSO Ensign (JG) Kenneth McKenzie, 17:39 hours.) As the doors to the Waste Reclamation Facility opened, Kenny and the team were assaulted with a terrible order. They all did the best to keep from reacting to the smell, more to tend up to the Wagoshiin than anything else. Kenny was not so sure that he did. ~What the hell are we doing here?~ He thought. ~Why would we want to examine their crap? How in the name of the United Federation of Planets could this help?~ Well, if they needed some fertiliser, then they could always open trade negotiations with the Wagoshiin. He knew he was being sarcastic to avoid being angry. He knew fine well why they were here. Nothing, apart from the elements in the air he detected a while back, was of anything important. They were keeping them distracted. But why? He knew that the Wagoshiin did not respect them in any way, but why not just kick them off the ship? Were they afraid of us? Were they trying to attempt to be friendly in the hopes we would accept their actions and later leave with out a fight? No, they were not afraid, but if they were, they were hiding it really well. He walked in the room first, more out of stubborn arrogance than anything else. If the Wagoshiin were toying with them, then Kenny would play this damn game of theirs. The room was large and squareish, dark and smelled, quite obviously, of crap. Several metallic pillars held up a low ceiling. The room was very plain, the only decoration on them being lights, panels and other doors. All around the room, was a maze of pumps and other objects which looked very old, so old, in fact, they reminded Kenny of a Earth 19th Century factory from the European Continent. There was no clear corridor between the machines. It looked as if one would walk around them, like one trying to find the way out of a maze. Pipes an pistons descended from the ceiling connecting to the machines. They all seemed to move in some way, almost as if they were about to explode. Several...of the bugs, which Kenny still could not pronounce the names off, were running about manning the machines. "I see. I think we all have a good idea what happens here." said Eoin. "Yeah, what an interesting place." Kenny said, hoping that the Wagoshiin with them would not understand that he was being sarcastic. However, Kenny wanted to know their reason for taking them here. he turned to Lo'ren. "Why are we here anyway?" he whispered to her. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tch'Kairn orbit, Orbital Station, Waste Reclamation Facility, ATAC Ensign(jg) Lo'ren T'Vof, 17:40 hours.) Lo'ren looked around the large room and was amazed that such attention could be paid to the waste of a culture. She grinned as Eoin and Kenny bantered a bit about the (ahem) facilities. "I see. I think we all have a good idea what happens here." said Eoin. "Yeah, what an interesting place." Kenny seemed rather non-plussed to be in the stinking place and Lo'ren couldn't help but agree. She wrinkled her nose at the smell and blinked rapidly to keep her eyes from watering. "Why are we here anyway?" Kenny whispered to her. Keeping his own voice low, Lo'ren tilted her head in his direction. "The Cage Lupus of Bajor and the wild Lematya of Vulcan have similar divide and conquer techniques." She raised a pointed eyebrow at the scientist as she continued, "I would suggest keeping Mr. Adams with you wherever you go." (reply Kenny room for more) Lo'ren had been vague as she wanted to be careful not to tip off their escort. Her early years had taught her that the more secure the jailers felt the more likely you could slip something past their guard. She sidled over to Adams and relayed her information to him in low tones. "Stay with McKenzie if we are separated, I'll cover MacLiam." Adams nodded, "Yes, ma'am." Having taken care of that logistics piece, Lo'ren felt free to excercise her curiousity. She was curious about the Nilgiks and the Tch'Kairn who were working, especially the Nilgiks who were going about their business as if there were nothing wrong. She approached Knars - turning on her best diplomat. As she moved in on Knars, she found herself surprised because she actually had to lower her head slightly to meet him eye-to-eye. "Mr. Knars, while waste reclamation is valuable - especially in space - I am more interested in the species that are working here. The Nilgiks seem to be unaffected by the obvious odour, why is this?" (reply Knars) Her eyebrows went up at this, "Fascinating, that would be a useful trait in a facility such as this. Would it be alright if we spoke to the Nilgiks and Tch'kairn in this area ourselves? For our culture, it is customary to get information directly from the experts." Lo'ren wondered if the leader of this pack - for she'd begun to piece together this cultural aspect - would catch her slight to his knowledge and what he might do about it. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- end compile