Illuminar Compile 24 Dates: Nov 22nd, 2020 - November 30th, 2020 Mission: Crossover, Day 2 - 4 Mission: Decompression, Day 2 - 5 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Crossover Day: 2 Stardate: 2445.09.22 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Deep Space 9 - Sickbay - Sec Ens. Penny McTaggart - 10:36) (Deep Space 9 - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO LT JG Ariel Trei - 10.40) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Crossover Day: 4 Stardate: 2445.09.24 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar – 2O's Office - 2O, Lt Carson Peters - 12:14) (USS Illuminar – Deck 8 - CSO's Office - SPC Science Officer Ensign Celiste Winters - 12:40) (Illuminar – Deck 8 - CSO's Office - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 12:41) (USS Illuminar, Main Engineering - ACEO, Ens(sg) Vex’ahlia Jordaan - 1322) (Illuminar – FO's Office - FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin - 17:31) (Illuminar – FO's Office – EO Ensign Scott Matrix - 17:34) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Decompression Day: 2 Stardate: 2445.09.28 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar - 2O, Commander Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex’ahlia Jordaan - 1953) (Earth-Tsalagihi Ayehli-Tahlequah, Oklahoma- FSXO- Lt. (Jg) Tempest Grey Wolf- 2025) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar – SecO- PO1 Steven Hammons- 2045) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar – ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 2046) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar – Assistant Chief of Security Keung Lee- 2050) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar - Illuminar CMO Lt. Quinna Solice - 2051) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Decompression Day: 3 Stardate 2445:09:29 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - Deck 5 - CMO Lt. Quinna Solice - 0735) (USS Illuminar – Deck 10- Main Shuttlebay - CO, Captain Sekal – 1145) (Earth, England, Cumbria, Carlisle - Cumbrian Docking Port - 2O, Cmdr Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 12:30) (Earth, England, Cumbria, Carlisle - Peters Apartment - 2O, Cmdr Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 12:45) (Space outside Mars - Pilot Vic “Raid” Montero – 1330) (Mars- Civilian Sports Complex- ACOps- Lieutenant (jg) Dieter Gregory and Fight Promoter Lar- 1800) (Earth-Tsalagihi Ayehli-Tahlequah, Oklahoma- FSXO- Lt. (Jg) Tempest Grey Wolf- 1801) (Mars – Civilian Sports Complex - Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 2000) (Mars Base -- Medical -- Illuminar CMO Lt. Quinna Solice -- 2055) (Mars Base – Medical – Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 2100) (Mars Base – Medical – CMO Lt. Quinna Solice -- 2115) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Decompression Day: 4 Stardate 2445:09:30 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar – Deck 1- Ready Room - CO, Captain Sekal – 0730) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Decompression Day: 5 Stardate 2445:10:01 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base, Security Facility, Armoury - Second Officer, Cmdr. Carson Peters & Assistant Chief Security Officer, Ensign Keung Lee - Time 0930) (Mars Base, Security Facility, Armoury - Assistant Chief of Security, Ensign Keung Lee - 1200) (Mars Base, Security Quarters - 2O, Commander Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt. Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 1710) (Mars Base, Arboretum Garden - 2O, Commander Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt. Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 1750) (Mars Base- Arboretum Garden- Federation Ambassador at Large/Priest of the goddess- Dr. Riven Mias- 1755) (Mars Base - arboretum Garden - ACOUNS ACMO LT JG Ariel Trei - 17.57) (Mars Base - Arboretum Garden – EO Ensign Scott Matrix - 18.01) (Mars Base - Arboretum Garden - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 18:02) (Mars Base- Arboretum Garden- SecO- PO1 Steven Hammons- 1803) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 2 - CROSSOVER >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Deep Space 9 - Sickbay - Sec Ens. Penny McTaggart - 10:36 ) Penny listened to Trei and thought about her answer carefully. Everyone seemed to have the wrong idea about her. She had not gone to Quarks to start a fight. It was all just a stupid stupid mistake. The wee one had acted one his own. She never set him on Stan. But it did look that way to everyone. Then again maybe the wee one picked up on Penny’s hidden feelings? “ I saw him at the academy. But until yesterday I had no knowledge he was my cousin.” She replied ( Reply , Trei) “ He was this silent quiet guy. Who never spoke with anyone especially us lassies. Very shy and gave us all these odd looks. It was a little creepy to be honest.” She said. “ Then we graduated.I thought no more of him until yesterday.” ( Reply , Trei) “ Maybe subconsciously but I never meant for the wee one to attack him. I was very drunk. My Grandmother filled my heed with all these silly wee thoughts. Which due to me being tipsy. He may have picked out on. Then saw Stan as a danger.” Penny mused. “ That’s why he attacked.” ( Reply , Trei ) “ I just want to go back to the Illuminar shower and have a good hearty breakfast. Our replicators do a fine bowl porridge oats.” Penny explained ( Reply , Trei) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐨) (Deep Space 9 - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO LT JG Ariel Trei - 10.40) She listened to Penny's story and thought about her answer. She thought Penny's actions were justifiable but being drunk is not an excuse. Penny will have to deal with her emotions better in the future. She responded to Penny. "I understand you didn't go to pick a fight but your inhibitions made one . You need to control your emotions. I know that is easier said than done. My Klingon side comes out from time to time. I find going to the gym hitting bags helps me with my anger issues. I haven't told anybody yet but I am preparing for the Rite of Ascension. I would like you to attend. It is most likely to be held when we get back to Mars but it may be after the next mission. We can talk once a week. Schedule with the receptionist. I will leave you to relax. See you soon." She left Sickbay to leave Penny to relax. (Reply Penny iyw) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 4 - CROSSOVER >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar – 2O's Office - 2O, Lt Carson Peters - 12:14) She nodded excitedly, "Yes, Sir. I was told that the Illuminar is a science vessel? Do you know if there are plans in the future to bring other biologists aboard?" “I suppose that will depend on the type of missions the admiralty have in mind for the Illuminar… and what your work load looks like.” He said smiling. They went back and forth a little more before Carson stood as the Ensign turned to leave... "Yes Sir. You mentioned Vex is in charge of Engineering? I have to admit that I don't really understand what Luma is, and that I feel a little out of my depth. Vex won't mind me asking her questions?" “She already knows you’ll be stopping by.” Carson said with great certainty. There was absolutely no way Luma was going to keep quiet about Celeste’s appearance on the ship. He nodded to her once again and then sat back down behind his desk and continued on with the work he was doing before greeting the new officer. (Reply Celeste, None) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (USS Illuminar – Deck 8 - CSO's Office - SPC Science Officer Ensign Celiste Winters - 12:40) Celiste wanted to go find her friend from DS9 and see if he was aboard like he hoped. And she wanted to find a quiet place to talk to this Luma with all the interesting things that the second officer had hinted. And she really wanted to talk to this Vex. Wow. Why had her Mom not told her anything about all this? Surely a word or two quietly given telepathically would not have been amiss. Celiste stopped dead in the hall as that strong, telepathic voice invaded her mind, through her shields. ::Do not be angry at our Vanyssa. It had been so long since we were with one who had been shaped to be a bondmate. Luma damaged our Vanyssa and the Starfleet did not trust any to bond with us. It was an accident when we burned her out funneling the power of the warp core through her. Luma is pleased to have the child of our Vanyssa and the Ketal here with her. My Vex will help you.:: the voice faded for a moment, ::Do not fear the Jaton. He is a good ... worm man.:: Celiste had found herself leaning against a bulkhead, shaking her head. "Yeah. You are not in Kansas no more, Dorothy." With that reassuring sarcastic remark, Celiste rang the chime for the entrance to the CSO's office. "Ensign Celiste Winters, botanist/xeno." She smiled widely taking in the handsome trill. "Luma says I am here to tend the roses?" (Reply alyl) (Posted by Mel) (Illuminar – Deck 8 - CSO's Office - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 12:41) Jaton looked up from the PADD in his hand as the chime rang. "Come in," he said, a friendly tone to his voice. In walked a fresh-faced Trill ensign, looking fresh from the Academy. Not that there were many Trill in the Academy right now, negotiations having just concluded for his homeworld's re-accession to the Federation. "Ensign Celiste Winters, botanist/xeno." She smiled widely. "Luma says I am here to tend the roses?" Jaton returned the smile. "Welcome aboard, Winters. Glad to have you here." He gestured for her to take a seat. "I'll say first off your duties will involve more than just tending the roses, but doing that will certainly be a big help. Luma certainly does have a sense of humour, though. But don't mind her. She's harmless and she means well. She's helped me through a good amount of my own issues, but I'm sure that's not something you want to hear from your new superior." (reply Winters, any) (posted by Spencer) (USS Illuminar, Main Engineering - ACEO, Ens(sg) Vex’ahlia Jordaan - 1322) “No, not there...” she paused slightly, “Give it here.” Suppressing a sigh she took the tool off the crewman and bent down to get under the panel herself. “Try it now,” Vex said as she played around with some of the gels and wiring. “Yeah, that’s it.” She heard from above her. “Super. Bend down, see where I’ve put that? Yes.. there and there..” pointing to the work she’d just done. “That’s going to need doing to all of these consoles. Isolate the power and then have them done before 2pm shall we say?” She said brightly. “Sir.” The Engineering officer nodded his head and began work isolating the panels before starting to progress with the work. =^=Ensign Jordaan, can you swing by my office at 1800 please?”=^= came the First Officers voice over the communication system. Vex’s first thought went to Luma, had she said or done something that needed explaining but she could instinctively feel Luma’s slight resentment that, that was her first thought. She said ::Sorry:: Vex told her softly and playfully whilst tapping her comm. badge, “Will do, Sir. Do I need to bring anything with me?” (Reply Sienna) Those around her might have thought it an odd question to ask. But she’d been burnt in the past by what sounded like a social invitation and then she’d get dressed and turn up, only to find it was an Engineering call-out. “Thank-you, Sir. See you at 1800” (USS Illuminar, FO’s Office - ACEO, Ens(sg) Vex’ahlia Jordaan - 1759) Walking up to the First Officers officer had not been a struggle. The department had been operating as efficiently as it could. Ensign Matrix had done a good job with the team he’d taken to fix a a bunch of the Starboard panels and the Main Engineering ones had also been completed. Standing outside the door, she pressed the chime and when allowed to enter she walked in and said, “You wanted to see me Lieutenant?” With a smile on her face. (Reply Sienna) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Vex) (Illuminar – FO's Office - FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin - 17:31) Sy had been waiting, reviewing the ensign's file while she waited and spoke with the ship's favorite gossip, Luma. Since Matrix was located in engineering, he would often be around Vex and Luma had opinions about everything. The first thing that surprised Sienna was that he seemed quiet and unassuming but was by all accounts quite competent. "Ensign Matrix, please be at ease and have a seat. I noticed that no one had officially welcomed you on board and instead you had been shoved into the harness and sent off to work. So, welcome aboard. I see that you have done superb work. Your supervisors note that unlike most ensigns you do not complain about being assigned the hard or dirty work. It is refreshing to meet someone fresh out of the Academy with that attitude. " She smiled. "The other reason I had you called here was to tell you that I applied for your provisional assignment to become permanent. With the absence of Ensign Taya that leaves a gap in Engineering, which was already stressed as a department. If you are interested, I would like you to meet up with Lt. Peters and enter into the command training program. Ideally within 6 to 9 months the plan would be for you to head third shift in Engineering under Lt. Jordaan as chief engineer. This would necessitate working closer with Luma, of course." Sy waited to see what the young Ensign would say in reply. (Reply Matrix) (Posted by Mel) (Illuminar – FO's Office – EO Ensign Scott Matrix - 17:34) Matrix’s nervousness disappeared quickly as he listened intently to the first officer. "Ensign Matrix, please be at ease and have a seat. I noticed that no one had officially welcomed you on board and instead you had been shoved into the harness and sent off to work. So, welcome aboard. I see that you have done superb work. Your supervisors note that unlike most ensigns you do not complain about being assigned the hard or dirty work. It is refreshing to meet someone fresh out of the Academy with that attitude. " “Thank you…yes I was issued a PADD and told to get to work so I dove right in. I’ve been pulling long hours, but there is much to do. I’m still learning the systems and locations, not to mention the crew. The LCARS computer has been my friend since coming aboard.” He replied. "The other reason I had you called here was to tell you that I applied for your provisional assignment to become permanent. With the absence of Ensign Taya that leaves a gap in Engineering, which was already stressed as a department. If you are interested, I would like you to meet up with Lt. Peters and enter into the command training program. Ideally within 6 to 9 months the plan would be for you to head third shift in Engineering under Lt. Jordaan as chief engineer. This would necessitate working closer with Luma, of course." “Thank you, Lieutenant, for the recognition and the opportunity. Yes, I would be most interested…anywhere I can best serve.” He replied. (Reply Williams-Verin) “When should I report to the chief engineer on this matter?” responded Matrix. (Reply Williams-Verin) (Posted by Steve) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 2 - DECOMPRESSION >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar - 2O, Commander Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex’ahlia Jordaan - 1953) ::It can't be. Luma!! What a joy to meet you again! I was talking with Saleke yesterday and have been eager to get to the Illuminar to speak with you.:: Vex instinctively began building walls around her brain. More difficult due to the fact that she needed to maintain a strong link with Luma otherwise she could lose her. ::My Vex, this is the Riven, he has come to help Our Sienna and to help Our Alaya bond with the Steven. The Riven is a Priest of The Goddess.:: Luma seemed to realise that Vex wasn’t paying too much attention and focusing more on retreating from the telepaths ::My Vex, you may trust him, he is not like your Father.:: Luma seemed almost anxious for Vex to like Riven. ::When Luma damaged the Vanyssa, the Riven took care of her. The Riven, did you know that the Vanyssa and the Ketal's daughter is here on the Illuminar? Well we aren't there right now, but she is. You should talk to her, the Riven:: "Oh my! I am so sorry for intruding!" Riven spoke quietly. "Let's get you out of this mess, my dearest." Michaella had a medical tricorder in her pocket and took it out, detaching the dermal regenerator and kneeling to tend to her heart's feet while Riven was explaining what had just happened. ::Well that is lovely. Luma, Vex, it is a pleasure to meet you both. I was sent here to study Luma and record some of the vast quantity of preBetazoid history that she has. I never expected that she would be able to leave the ship however.:: Michaella included Carson in the conversation by vocalizing it out loud after she spoke it telepathically. ::Can Luma 'hear' spoken words? How does the crystal work?:: ::Luma is tightbonded with My Vex and it allows Luma to hear what Vex hears. Luma shares her mind-bondmate's senses. When aboard the Illuminar it does not matter as much. My Vex needs to dance with her Carson and relax and drink alcohol. My Vex should eat nachos too. Luma desires to taste them with her Vex.:: Carson nodded now understanding what was happening. There was clearly a good deal of conversation happening between the Betazoids and Luma that he was unaware of. “Yes, she can hear you. I think the crystal makes things harder, but communication is possible.” He looked at their faces, “Ah but you already know that by now don’t you.” He smiled embarrassed to be behind in the conversation. Vex moved closer to him and grasped his hand, to reassure him and privately, not that she’d admit it, she was concerned by the Ambassadors presence. It was unusual to have other, very strong, telepaths around her. Luma loved the idea of the party and was having a blast already. ::If it would help, My Vex could leave Luma with the Riven while she makes dances with her Carson. The Riven will not allow anyone to take her.:: Luma had a bit of mischievousness to her voice. Vex didn’t like that idea one bit, “How about we start with the Nacho’s?’ She said aloud, so the whole group would hear here. “Excellent idea, I’m starving.” Carson said, eager to grab some food. He was clearly missing apart of the conversation again but he was determined not to be frustrated by it. As Carson turned back to the bar to get some food, Vex cleared her throat. “I know a little about the two of you- you understand Luma she likes to talk and she loves nothing more to eulogise about her past dealings with ones she’s loved or loves.” (Reply Riven/Michaella/Luma) “You’ll understand that whilst she’s in this form, I’m… ah… hesitant to break free from here, if only for a moment. No offense meant.” (Reply any) “What sort of studies are you anticipating?” Vex asked Michaella (reply Riven/Vex/Carson) (posted by Jono Bradley) (Earth-Tsalagihi Ayehli-Tahlequah, Oklahoma- FSXO- Lt. (Jg) Tempest Grey Wolf- 2025) Tempest stepped into the house and moved through the living room to the kitchen. The table was already set and her mother was just placing a large, steaming bowl of pinto beans there. "I heard you come in. Do me a favor and tell your dad to come eat. He went into his workshop when you stayed outside." She glanced over as she picked up a basket of fry bread then pointed at an empty clay pot on the window sill. "You can set the sage in the pot for now." Tempest complied then turned and moved back through the living room toward her old room and the room of her brother Jack which had been turned into her fathers workroom over the years. Jack lived in the area with his wife and children. She tapped on the door and opened it at his reply. "Come in pumpkin." The room had wood chips on the floor and in the corners. Her father was using a narrow chisel on the flowing beard of the pulky man he was carving into the limb. She moved around where she could see the face better. It was old and wizened as all the faces were prone to be. She understood the intent though not the execution. Carving the faces of the pulky men into the wood was seen as revealing the spirit of the wood itself. She had once asked her father how he did it. His answer that he saw the face of the pulky man in the wood and merely carved away the rest made no sense to her just as navigating a star map would be beyond him. Her father didn't carve the pulky men as a hobby or to sell either, he tended to give them away since the spirits were seen to watch over the homes of those who owned them and were normally displayed prominently. He finished the lock of beard he was working on then sat back and looked up at her. "It smells like dinner is ready. You bring the fragrance with you." "Mother told me to come get you." He set the limb down carefully, put the chisel away and brushed off his pants and shirt after getting to his feet. "I will wash on the way, go ahead. You must be hungry." She didn't argue but ducked out the door. It was good to be home for a few days and she needed to duck out to the vehicle quickly to get her bag. Tomorrow was the culmination of the reason she had come home. After that she had another day before she would have to leave. The night was dark and the spirits had dispersed for now as she fetched the bag. In the distance she could hear the yips and howls of coyote coming from the hills. The night was cool all right, not cold yet at all but heralding an early winter. Would the wolf spirit come tomorrow night? What would her spirit guide show her? These questions were going through her head as she took the bag inside and set it on the bed in her old room. From there she went quickly to the kitchen, her stomach was rumbling with hunger and the food smelled as good as it was going to taste. (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar – SecO- PO1 Steven Hammons- 2045) The impromptu party was going at full tilt. Groups of Illuminar officers were scattered all around the bar chatting, eating and drinking. Mostly chatting and drinking. Food was good for soaking up alcohol and while some had been consumed it wasn't enough. Steven had eaten his plate of nachos cold when he could finally get around to them. Between the beer, champagne and scotch Boyles had pushed off on him though he had a good buzz going. Lee, Devers and Boyles were in a knot near the dance floor and sometimes broke away to cut a rug. Commander Peters and his significant other had been entertaining the Betazoid priest and his wife. Hammons and Alaya were with the former group and others came and went. He had also seen the senior science officer chatting up the bartender. Steven excused himself and walked over to say hello while planning on getting another beer while he was there. He waved as he walked up. "Lieutenant Alyl it's good to see you here. I hope you're having a good time." (Reply: Jaton) He grinned. "If you get the urge to make steps head on over to the dance floor and join in with the group. The more the merrier." (Reply: Jaton) "Thank you. I've come over for a beer." He looked at the bartender. "Santiago another large premium please." (Reply: Santiago.) "Have you decided whether you'll be able to make it to the wedding? 1800 hours on the first. Call someone in to cover for you if you have to. I'm expecting you there." (Reply: Santiago) Steven laughed. "I'm looking forward to it. Too bad we can't have the band playing during it but Betazoid weddings are a bit stuffy from what I'm learning." He shuddered and included Alyl in his look. "Dad and mom are arriving tomorrow and I can guarantee they aren't going to be big fans of this, they'll be as happy for it to be over as I will." (Reply, Jaton, Santiago) Steven took the tall, cold glass of amber deliciousness and tasted it. "Ah! More refreshing than the scotch though they're both delicious, thanks." He nodded at both and made his way over to Alaya, the door opened and he stopped stunned as the Vulcan CO and newly minted Captain walked in. The Vulcan paused just inside the doorway and was looking around. A man that tall didn't have to look long to find what he was searching for. Sekal's eyes settled on Hammons and he began making his way toward him. Hammons remained rooted to the spot. Were they getting complaints about the noise from the bar? The band was currently taking a break but that didn't mean anything. Had he forgotten to fill out a report correctly? Something had to be wrong, why else would a tea totaler Vulcan Captain be looking for him in a bar? Sekal looked like Moses walking through the Red Sea the way the crowd parted for him until he stood before the much shorter human then nodded. "Petty Officer Hammons I came to pay my respects and offer my congratulations on your upcoming nuptials." Steven immediately relaxed. "Thank you sir. You had me worried for a moment." He grinned at the CO's quirked eyebrow. "You are coming to the wedding aren't you?" Sekal nodded. "Indeed, my father and mother will be attending as well. They asked me to deliver their acceptance while I was here." Steven felt a shiver run down his spine. An Admiral and a highly acclaimed diplomat there to witness his shame. ~Ah well Steven, go big or go home. Just not too big do you understand?~ His scolding thought doesn't warrant an explanation. "Where is the bride to be?" "Follow me sir." He was about to turn when the door opened again and the CMO walked in. "Hold on a second please." Steven held up his hand and began waving it as he raised his voice. "Doctor Solice, Quinna over here!" (Reply: Quinna) "Come over and join the group. Alaya is all alone with a group of men and needs your company!" (Reply: Quinna) He pointed to where the group was congregated and motioned in that direction. When he was satisfied she knew where to find them he started in that direction. "Sorry sir." "No apologies are necessary." They made it to the group and Sekal nodded to them all. "Gentlemen I understand the ship is picking up the tab for the evening. I hope you are enjoying yourselves. If you require anything that is not readily available let Commander Peters know and Illuminar will do all she can to assist you." (Reply: Lee, Devers) "Thank you sir." Boyles piped up. "I've got some hunting to do later but for now all I require is inside these walls." The Vulcan tilted his head at the remark then turned his attention to Alaya. "Counselor Ravenstone I bring you congratulations on behalf of myself, Admiral Saleke and Ambassador T'Kess on your upcoming marriage and our notice of acceptance of the wedding invitations. You may be assured of our presence." (Reply: Alaya) He inclined his head to all. "And now I apologize but I must leave. There is a report to be filled out on the ship that can't wait. Enjoy your evening." He gave a small bow, turned and swept away, once again the crowd seemed to part magically before him. "How does he do that?" Steven asked no one in particular as he smiled. (Reply: Lee, Devers, Alaya, Quinna, Alyl iyw) The band had mounted the stage again and Boyles ran up to whisper to the lead singer. He then came back grinning. "Hammons you will want to take this dance, trust me." https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=9HMDUtirtJM&feature=share Hammons grinned and slapped Boyles on the shoulder then grabbed Alaya by the arm and steered her quickly to the dance floor. "He's right lady in red, this is the dance of the night." (Reply: Alaya, any) (Posted by Charles G) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar – ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 2046) Jaton was busy catching up with Santiago when he saw a security officer walk up to them, a big smile on his face. He looked the man up and down and returned the smile. "Lieutenant Alyl it's good to see you here. I hope you're having a good time." "Nice to see you too, Petty Officer Hammons. But please tell me we don't have to be so formal. After all, it's a party!" He grinned. "If you get the urge to make steps head on over to the dance floor and join in with the group. The more the merrier." "Why, Hammons, is that an invitation to dance with you? During your last gasp of freedom?" Jaton said, his voice turning more flirtatious. "Thank you. I've come over for a beer." He looked at the bartender. "Santiago another large premium please." (Reply: Santiago.) "Have you decided whether you'll be able to make it to the wedding? 1800 hours on the first. Call someone in to cover for you if you have to. I'm expecting you there." (Reply: Santiago) Steven laughed. "I'm looking forward to it. Too bad we can't have the band playing during it but Betazoid weddings are a bit stuffy from what I'm learning." He shuddered and included Alyl in his look. "Dad and mom are arriving tomorrow and I can guarantee they aren't going to be big fans of this, they'll be as happy for it to be over as I will." Jaton laughed. "True, but I'm sure there's only so much that an event where half the people in attendance are stark naked could be called 'stuffy." (Reply Santiago) Steven took the tall, cold glass of amber deliciousness and tasted it. "Ah! More refreshing than the scotch though they're both delicious, thanks." Jaton raised his fire wine. "A toast to you, Steven. On your last nights of freedom. May they be memorable." (reply Steven, Santiago, any) (posted by Spencer) (Mars Base - Red Sands Bar – Assistant Chief of Security Keung Lee- 2050) Keung was enjoying himself at the party although he concentrated on the food than the actual dancing and he managed to converse with of his colleagues. The music was to his taste...excellent classics mostly from the 20th/21st Century He was talking to one officer reminiscing about some of the songs that he first heard in hims and the artists that he actually seen in concert when he noticed that the officer eyes were looking beyond him. There was a sudden change of atmosphere as the rest of Illuminar officers became quiet and glancing at one direction which was the entrance. In walk Captain Seka which was a double surprise for Keung as it was the first time he met the Captain in person and the fact that he was a Vulcan. More to the point, a Vulcan attending a bar and a party!! The respect for the Captain was incredible as the group of officers split like a wave to allow the Captain to walk through. Captain Seka looked round and nodded "Gentlemen I understand the ship is picking up the tab for the evening. I hope you are enjoying yourselves. If you require anything that is not readily available let Commander Peters know and Illuminar will do all she can to assist you." “Thank you, Captain.” Said Keung, who raised his glass in salute Keung saw that the Captain spoke to Alaya and congratulated on their marriage, that he thanked her for the wedding invitation and will be attending. Another surprise. (no reply) (posted by John) (Mars Base -- Red Sands Bar -- Illuminar CMO Lt. Quinna Solice -- 2051) Quinna spent enough time sitting alone wondering if anyone noticed her lack of presence. She needed to put herself out there. And there was a party going on. She put on her best nonuniform outfit. Here she was, The Red Sands Bar. "Doctor Solice, Quinna over here!" Quinna looked over and smiled. Apparently, she did not give herself credit. She pointed to the person that called her name. "Come over and join the group. Alaya is all alone with a group of men and needs your company!" “Are you sure it is not you guys that need another woman to feel less intimidated.? Quinna asked with a grin on her face. He pointed to where the group was congregated and motioned in that direction. When he was satisfied she knew where to find them he started in that direction. "Sorry, sir." "No apologies are necessary." They made it to the group and Sekal nodded to them all. "Gentlemen I understand the ship is picking up the tab for the evening. I hope you are enjoying yourselves. If you require anything that is not readily available let Commander Peters know and Illuminar will do all she can to assist you." (Reply: Lee, Devers) "Thank you, sir." Boyles piped up. "I've got some hunting to do later but for now all I require is inside these walls." The Vulcan tilted his head at the remark then turned his attention to Alaya. "Counselor Ravenstone I bring you congratulations on behalf of myself, Admiral Saleke, and Ambassador T'Kess on your upcoming marriage and our notice of acceptance of the wedding invitations. You may be assured of our presence." (Reply: Alaya) He inclined his head to all. "And now I apologize but I must leave. There is a report to be filled out on the ship that can't wait. Enjoy your evening." He gave a small bow, turned, and swept away, once again the crowd seemed to part magically before him. "How does he do that?" Steven asked no one in particular as he smiled. Reply Lee, Devers, Alaya, Hammons, Alyl iyw) Quinna leaned over to Alaya, “I hear that you are in need of another woman over here. I assured them that they needed me to off balance you. I know you can hold your own.” (Reply: Alaya,iyw) The band had mounted the stage again and Boyles ran up to whisper to the lead singer. He then came back to grinning. "Hammons you will want to take this dance, trust me." As people went off to dance and Quinna received her Mai Tai, she spoke up, “These Boys are not giving you a hard time, are they? (Reply Lee, Devers, Alaya, Hammons, Alyl iyw) (played by Kris) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 3 - DECOMPRESSION >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- CMO Lt. Quinna Solice -- 0735) Sat at the table in her quarters getting her first cup of coffee of the day and eating some peanut butter toast. She herself had a late evening the night before and completely forgot about the events from her past. "Doctor Solice this is the Captain. Ensign Taya is ready to be transferred to Mars. Would you be available to oversee the transfer in one hour?" “Of course.” Her reply came through the speakers clearly. "Very well. I will have Mars medical notified to come aboard at 0845." “I will be in sickbay by 0815 hours,” Quinna assured the Captain as she finished her breakfast. (Reply if Sekal IYW) (Played by Kris) (USS Illuminar – Deck 10- Main Shuttlebay - CO, Captain Sekal – 1145) A technician had been moved from Utopia Planitia to flight control operations on the ship to choreograph the operation as the quantum torpedo warheads were brought in. Sekal was standing near the reinforced door to the cargo bay awaiting the initial shipment. Three more technicians stood to the side or behind him. Two had anti-gravity units which were floating sedately beside them. The third would be assisting them. Sekal himself would oversee the operation since his command access would be required to open the torpedo magazine on deck fifteen and seal it again. Technically Sekal did not need to be involved in the operation since he could have done this remotely but he had been too heavily involved in the planning, construction and fit of the ship. It must also be noted that as mentioned previously he had a bit of an obsessive streak. The work was not going to be difficult at all, it would only require a lot of walking and be spaced throughout the day but he would not be going into the holodeck to take the next step in the Crucible program, there would be no time for it. Once the quantum warheads were aboard and secure there would be a report to file and he would be inspecting the work done on the shield emitters which was nearing completion. The engineering complement that had been pulled off to assist on the Tolliver were scheduled to return at 0800 tomorrow and upgrade work on the phasers would begin again. At that point he would be relegated to hands-off supervision, only filing reports at the end of the day until completed at which time he would make the final inspections. =^= Captain Sekal the first shuttle is beginning its approach now. =^= He tapped the combadge. "Acknowledged." The technicians around him straightened a bit as the cargo shuttle came into view and slid gracefully through the forcefield into the cargo bay. An area had been temporarily marked off nearby for it to land. The pilot knew his small vessel well and manuevered the craft into position and onto the deck with a minimum of wasted time. The technicians began moving toward it as another detail occured to him. Admiral Bell had requested they be involved in operations on Mars while here and he had also promised Doctor Methor that he would add the tremendous computing power of the ship to the data collection going on in the labs for specimen 2 which Dural had brought originally to the base. He himself didn't have time to oversee the operation which would involve a large data dump to the Illuminar primary computer. Once the computer was linked to the one on the base and the process had begun though there would be little to do outside of occasional checks. He could have a technician brought over from UP to do that but officers from the Illuminar were more conversant with the new computer system that had been installed on the ship, if there were any difficulties with the link one of them could deal with it much more effectively. The subject fell firmly within the purview of science and he had already tapped doctor Solice this morning so he decided to give his senior science officer the option to oversee the task. Again he was not going to order one of his officers away from leave but would give Alyl the option. Unexpectedly very few of the officers had left Mars to go to Earth during leave, this made them vulnerable to unexpected projects. He tapped his combadge. "Lieutenant Alyl this is Captain Sekal. I have a request that is not binding, you may decline if you wish." (Reply: Jaton) "Doctor Dural has a project going on at the base that is compiling information for treatments to exposure to one of the agents he brought there. It is being compared to and adapted to all known sentient species in the Federation database. Would you be available to link the Illuminar computer system to the base and set up the shared program file for it?" (Reply: Jaton) (Posted by Charles G) (Earth, England, Cumbria, Carlisle - Cumbrian Docking Port - 2O, Cmdr Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 12:30) "What are you grumbling about now?" Vex asked with a slight sigh as they stepped off the shuttle into the brittle English wind. "We'll be back around 5ish." Carson ordered the Petty Officer in charge of the dock. The man saluted and nodded his head before making the required notes on his padd and moving off. They'd travelled from Mars in the personal shuttle Vex had purchased with some of the vast amounts of money her father had (somewhat wrongly) trusted her with. It was larger than the standard shuttle they used on the Illuminar as it had been specifically designed as a vessel to use when Luma wanted to get out of the Illuminar. It hadn't been used for that reason though as the Admiral had bequeathed the USS Mystique to Luma for exactly that reason. It just sat in the Mars private docking bays. He'd suggested that they take a day visit to Earth to introduce Vex to his mother to help distract her- Taya was being moved from the ship today. But as they'd got closer to his home, he was growing more irritable. He couldn't put a finger on why- perhaps it was nervousness at introducing Vex. That couldn't be it, they'd spoken and seen each other virtually. He shrugged it off, but he could feel her watching him as they walked from the dock. "It makes me nervous when you do that." "I know." she said it with a smile. "It's why I do it." she joked, "Seriously though. We're just having lunch with your mum. What could go wrong?" He stayed silent for a moment, "Nothing really. I don't know why I'm nervous... perhaps I'm feeling nervous for you." Carson replied. A jovial mocking in his voice told Vex exactly what he meant. He was prodding at her anxiety of being so far away from Luma. Since they had been bonded, never had she been cut off from her completely like this. It was only now, since Riven & Michaella had arrived that Carson had even been confident of suggesting this trip. Of course Vex could have chosen to bring Luma with them, but there was no way they'd have gotten permission to travel independently. A troop of Starfleet Security would have been assigned to her whilst on Earth and that did not lend itself to a private lunch. "I'm fine." she said resolutely. "Luma will be fine. It'll be good for her to have a few hours of independence as well." Vex said as if trying to convince herself. Having met the Ambassador and his partner at the party the evening before, she'd travelled to speak with Michaella in the morning and asked whether they would agree to look after Luma for the day. Whether that be in crystal form or with her on the ship- on the ship was Vex's preference but she didn't want to be too controlling so she'd left it up to Luma. "I need your authorization, Sirs" the petty officer asked as they got to the door. "Commander Carson Peters, USS Illuminar. Authorisation Alpha-Zeta-Charlie-Xray." Carson said on automatic. "The ship is listed as registered to a Vex'ahlia Jorda.." "That'd be me." Vex interjected, "Lieutenant Vex'ahlia Jordaan, also USS Illuminar." she pulled a padd out of her jacket pocket and handed it to the man. "All the correct documentation should be there." "Hmm. Any modifications to the vehicle, Ma'am?" he said whilst he skimmed the information. "Nothing that you should be concerned about. Everythings within regs." she said quickly, "You'll see it within the authorised mods section on report 42a." Taking a second to read through, the man handed the padd back and unlocked the dock door. "Thank-you." Carson said as he took Vex's hand and led her out into the Cumbrian cold. (Reply none) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Earth, England, Cumbria, Carlisle - Peters Apartment - 2O, Cmdr Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 12:45) A short 15 minute ride had gotten them to the centre of Carlisle. They were now standing outside of a modern looking high-rise which his mother had moved into a few years ago. It was a far cry from the apartment building he and his brother Patrick had lived in with her after the collapse of their family farm. Before they could enter the building Carson had to give his clearance code once again, not Starfleet this time, but a security code he'd been forwarded once his mother had taken residence in the building. The doors slid open to a large entrance space which was filled with plants and bushes of all differering varieties. "Luma would be in love, I think." Vex said as they walked in. "It smells amazing." Carson took a deep breath, "So it does, I'd never noticed that before." They walked down the paths and followed the signage which pointed them towards the elevators. "This is pretty nice." Vex said. "Yeah. WAY nicer than the original apartment we moved into after the storm." he said with a slight shudder. "But I'm sure it's nothing compared to what you grew up with." teasing her. "I grew up in a private school mainly. Very little time at home with my parents - however luxurious the houses were." she said and he immediately regretted the comment. (Earth, England, Cumbria, Carlisle - Peters Apartment, Floor 7 - 2O, Cmdr Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt(jg) Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 12:48) The doors to the elevator opened and out in front of them was the Peters apartment. He'd only been here once or twice since his mother had moved, but it wasn't an unfamiliar sight. "Come in," he said. "Shouldn't we wait for your mum to come let us in?" Vex asked. "Nah. We'll be standing here for an hour if we do that." he smiled and led her into the entranceway. "In that case, where's the toilet?" Vex asked. "Down that hallway, second door on the left." he pointed to his right. "Back in a sec." she winked and disappeared. "MUM?!" he shouted as he stood in the centre of the room. No response. ~Where is she?~ he thought to himself as he walked through the door in front of him into the lounge. There was a modest looking sofa which he sat on and began to look through the framed photos all along the edge of the wall. He and his brother had pride of place throughout the photos and it made him happy to see photos of Patrick and Michael that he hadn't seen before. ~I should really check-in with him soon.~ "Oh.. ah!" Came a sound from behind him, "I'm sorry- I just wasn't expecting you today bro..." his mother stopped in the middle of her sentence as he turned around to greet her. "OH. Carson." she said with a big smile across her face. He stood up and she draped her arms around him in a big hug. Had she gotten smaller since he last saw her? "Why didn't you shout when you came in?" she asked as they seperated. "I did mum. No one answered." "Obviously not loud enough." she muttered as she moved to sit down with him. "and where's Vex? I am SO looking forward to meeting her in person." she smiled, placing her hands in her lap. It was only then that he noticed she was wearing an apron. "I hope you haven't gone to, too much trouble. I would have ordered food." he said nodding to the apron. "This? It's nothing. I won't be meeting your first serious partner in.. what is it now... 6, 7 years? and be eating take-away food or replicated food. Not a chance Mister." "If you insist," he said with a shrug whilst setting into the seat. "What was that when you first came in, you weren't expecting who?" Her head went down a little, "Nothing. For a moment I thought... anyway where is Vex'ahlia?" "I'm right here Mrs. Peters." Vex said from behind them. He wondered how long she'd decided to wait, wanting to make the right entrance. "OH." she jumped back up, "Let me take a good look at you." a big smile reupped across her face. Vex made a show of standing very still with a smile on her face, "Will I do?" she said with a jovial tone. "You're perfect dear." and before Carson could intercede, she pulled Vex into a hug. He watched for a moment to see if Vex indicated for help. Another second. It didn't come and his mother let her go. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person Mrs Peters." Vex said as she moved closer to Carson and sat down. "Oh come, now. Stop. I've told you to call me Laura. I won't be having any of this Mrs Peters malarky. Anyway... hopefully you'll be calling me Mum in the near future if he has any sense." she smiled mischievously and they both sat there a little awkwardly. "Stay here. I need to finish a few bits in the kitchen and then we'll be set for food..." she headed out of the room and then popped her head back around, "You don't have any special dietary needs do you Vex"? Shaking her head, "No- whatever you're making I'm sure will be delicious enough to eat." He gave it a second to make sure his sixty one year old mother was out of earshot before saying, "I'm not so sure." "Stop it." Vex said with a smile and glare. There was silence for a few moments whilst they sat there, just enjoying each other's company in a private room. Away from Starfleet, Away from the rigors of command and responsibility. "I wonder who she thought I was?" Carson said finally. "When she first came in, I mean... You weren't there but it seemed like she was.. panicked?" Vex smiled carefully. "Panicked is right. Only for a moment though.. I'm sorry, she was particularly loud at that point and as I hadn't met her yet, it was difficult to block out." "No, it's fine." Carson said as he shrugged, "Who would she be panicking about being here?" "Her brother." Vex said calmly, "Admiral Janeway. From what I can gather, they meet-up every few months and the momentary panic was that he was here when she was expecting you to be." "Why though?" Carson said as he worked through the possibilities. He now understood the confusion. By some freak genetic quirk, he looked an awful lot like his uncle. More like him than either his mother or -rest his soul- his own father. It had been somewhat of a funny coincidence when he was young and a minor annoyance once he'd joined Starfleet but nothing else. He was always more frustrated by the lack of communication he had with his uncle. It seemed the man actively went out of his way to avoid having to deal with Carson personally. "My guess would be.. well, if she was planning to see you and then Starfleet Admiralty, not only Admiralty but her brother turns up instead. I'd have to say, not being a parent myself yet- that it's probably the panic one feels when they think they're about to get the bad news they've dreaded to receive." "Hm. I'd have never gotten to that conclusion." he said, "You've got a unique way of looking at things." She laughed. "...and a beautiful laugh." he said as he leant in for a kiss. (Reply none) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Space outside Mars - Pilot Vic “Raid” Montero – 1330) “Luna two, this is Luna one,” Vic called “Screens are clear, let’s open up distance a bit.” “Copy that Luna one. Increasing separation to 500 km. Increasing scanners forward.” The two ships moved a part, still traveling at a relatively sedate speed. Merlin and Gunsmoke were trying to find any signs of anything out here. “Merlin here. I have bogies, bearing 300 mark 200. Speed is 0.5 impulse.” “Copy that, Merlin. Gunsmoke has the bogies as well. I count four.” “Changing course to intercept. Speed to 0.6 impulse,” Raid called. The two ships changed their course while increasing speed to intercept. “Are the bogies sending IFF?” “That is a negative, Raid. Scanners are resolving the bogies now,” Gunsmoke replied. “Merlin here. The computer has no record of these style ships. I am getting mixed readings, it looks like one biosign, but there is something fluctuating in and out.” “Work your magic Merlin,” Badger asked. “One minute to intercept. Shield up, weapons hot,” Gunsmoke said. “Bogies are splitting, I count 8. Repeat 8 bogies. I read pulse cannons are charged, and they have an energized hull armor. No shields,” Merlin reported. The two fighters closed in on the unknown ships, which were flying a stacked double V pattern. “Gunsmoke, hail them,” Vic said. “Unknown vessels, This is Ensign Vic Montero of Star Fleet. You are in restricted space. Please state your intention.” “No response there Raid,” replied Gunsmoke. “I’m reading an energy spike, break right, break right,” Merlin called out. The two fighters rolled to the right and went into a dive while accelerating. The ships in the top V started to accelerate, while the bottom ones turned to pursue Vic and Badger. “Raid, try evasive pattering Delta.” Gunsmoke said. Raid started to fly, spinning the fighter on its axis to face the threat. “Get ready Gunsmoke.” The ships accelerated at each other, in a deadly game of chicken. “They are firing,” Gunsmoke called. Vic rolled left and started climbing. “Going to circle back behind them.” A strange beam of light shot out from the enemy fighter, missing Vic’s ship. “Come to daddy,” he said as he completed his loop, ending up behind the opposing ships. “Torpedo one, away. Torpedo two, away,” he called as he launched two micro torpedoes at the first ship. The tactical computers on both ships registered a hit, and the enemy was disabled. “Strike one,” Raid called. “Strike two,” came Badgers call. The two Federation ships crossed past each other in pursuit of the remaining two fighters. In short order, the other two enemies were registered as killed. “Uh, Raid, we got a problem. Those other ships jumped to 0.9 and are closing in on the base.” “Raid is going firewall,” he said. “Give me all you can Gunsmoke.” Vic pushed the ship to maximum speed. Badger did the same. “Raid, we area at 1.2 impulse,” Gunsmoke called out, “1.3 … 1.4…. The engines are redlined, we’re at max.” The Federation ships closed the distance. “Three minutes to intercept.” “Badger, we’re going to shoot past them, and crazy ivan the ships to engage face to face. Copy?” “Badger copies.” With the co-pilots tracking the bandits on sensors, the pilots focused on pushing the ships with everything they could. The time ticked slowly by, second by second as the gap slowly closed. The bandits were in sight. Two started to turn back towards the federation ships, while the other two continued on their course. “We have to stop the front two fighters, prepare for evasive maneuver Charlie foxtrot,” Raid called. “You crazy man?” replied Badger. “Can’t let them get to the base. Not on my watch.” “Commencing maneuvers,” Raid said. The federation fighters blew past the enemy picket line and continued to barrel down at the bandits. Blowing past them, Vic waited till he had good distance before pulling a Crazy Ivan, flipping the ship around while at speed. Badger followed suit. “I have left, you take right,” Vic called. “Finish them quick as we’ve got two more to deal with.” “Rodger,” replied Badger. Vic engaged in a series of maneuvers to keep himself on the target, avoiding the enemies weapon. His opponent got a lucky shot, “Shield at 50%, that was a hell of a hit,” Bebe called. The enemy was juking, but Vic was having none of it. “Fire three. Fire four.” He called out when he got a lock. “Good hit,” Bebe called. “Oh shit,” she added as alarms went off. “They got a lock on us. Come on Raid, do some of that fancy pilot shit,” Gunsmoke called as she continued to work the sensors and weapons computers. Scanners showed the enemy behind him. He started pushing his ship up, beginning of a circle, which he turned into a corkscrew. The opposing pilot kept up with his maneuvers, but Vic was moving enough that enemy couldn’t get a lock. “All reverse,” he called to Gunsmoke, “On my mark.” Vic entered another corkscrew and as the enemy fighter followed him in, he his reverse on his engines. “Hold together baby,” he said as multiple alarms started going off. “We’re redlined,” Bebe called, “We can’t take these forces.” Vic held on course, and watched as the fighter overshot him “Fire five, fire six” he called out. Returning power to forward, he watched as the two micro torpedoes sailed right past the target. “Damn.” A red light came on the console. “Torpedo tubes are jammed and offline,” Bebe called, “Trying to fix them,” Her fingers working her controls as Vic switched to phasers. The space battle continued as Vic tried to get a lock on his target. The two were evenly matched and seemed to anticipate the others moves. “Got them, Raid,” Bebe called. “Torpedo’s back online.” Vic broke right as the enemy pulled their own Crazy Ivan. As Vic dove, he called out “Shields to maximum,” “We’re at 30 percent.” “I just need one pass,” Raid called. Time to change the tactics in this deadly game of predator and prey. His opponent got a lucky shot. “Shields have failed,” Bebe called, “Damage to the port Nacelle.” “Let’s end this,” Vic said through gritted teeth. As Bebe balanced the power load, Vic spun the ship around and as he did, fired a spread of microtorpedos along the turn. The foe couldn’t evade them all, and a green light lit up on the panel. “Simulation over. Return to base.” (Reply None) (Posted by Tim) (Mars- Civilian Sports Complex- ACOps- Lieutenant (jg) Dieter Gregory and Fight Promoter Lar- 1800) The Ferengi was well dressed and adorned, more so than one would normally see on one of that species. Ferengi routinely spurned ostentatious displays of wealth, preferring it to be in liquid assets such as gold pressed latinum. This Ferengi though was an avowed proponent of rule of acquisition number 26 which states: As the customer goes so goes the wise profiteer. And there was profit to be made in Federation space so close to its headquarters. Terrans however had some quirks, they placed a lot of value in image and image was simple to interpret into this rule, it fit nicely. You had to be the part of what your customer wanted. This had led him into rule nine: Opportunity plus instinct equals profit. He was making a killing giving these people what they wanted but there were always other opportunities available for those who listened. See rule number twenty two. The fights were good, his rings, necklaces and clothes flashy though not as expensive as they looked, greed is after all eternal but there was a lot more going on at Mars he wanted to diversify his portfolio into. These things were going through his head as he stood not far from the ticket windows shaking hands and welcoming the bettors. Always keep your customers happy! Gregory had finished the work on SPOTS and headed over to the sports complex. Always a betting man, he couldn’t pass up the opportunity. After paying the entrance fee, he grabbed a program, a seat and reviewed the cards for the night. Circling the fighters he planned to bet on, he wandered over to the betting window. As he continued to study the cards he heard a familiar voice, one he’d last heard months ago at Quarks. Looking up, he almost didn’t recognize Lar in all his flashy adornments. “Hey Lar,” Gregory called, “Are you still drawing to an inside flush?” Lar looked toward the hew-mon and showed his impressive and astonishingly clean teeth. Image again!. "Ensign Gregory is it not?" He offered his hand. "There isn't any profit in that. I've learned letting go of a little latinum can bring in a shower of it later so I fold. Rule of Acquisition number sixty two. Have you learned yet how to play Tongo without letting go of all your latinum?" He offered his hand for a shake to the taller hew-mon. “It has been a while. I could never get Quark to teach me Tongo. Trying to learn on a simulation is just not the real thing.” "I can teach but it will cost you dearly." The Ferengi chuckled. “I know, I know. However, what are you doing here?” "Fight promotions hew-mon. The people love it here and there's a lot of latinum in it." He raised his arms to show off his ornamentation. "As you can no doubt see. Wasteful but if you dress cheap then the clientele think you're cheap and that is bad for business." “Really? Got some inside information you care to share,” Gregory chuckled. The Ferengi smiled again, this time wider. "Knowledge equals profit hew-mon and I don't sell mine cheaply. You will have to pay dearly for it." “It's ok, I’ve got my fighters already picked,” Dieter added. Lar allowed his smile to drop a little, he could have sold misinformation and reaped a big windfall besides. "Your money is always welcome in my keeping. How did you get to Mars from DS9?" “A couple of days of shore leave. My ship arrived a few days ago.” "Oh! A ship transfer!" The Ferengi grabbed the hand of another bettor leaving the cages and pumped his hand. "We appreciate your business. I hope your fighter wins in style." He then turned back to the former DS9 officer. “Yea, I got transferred off the station and onto a ship. USS Illuminar.” Lar's lobes began to tingle. "The Illuminar eh? A brand knew ship with rumors of some spiffy new toys I've heard. So she's the one in dock right now. Are you liking it?" “Oh, yeah, I did get a promotion. I’m in Operations, it’s a far cry from Deep Space Nine. Before I left, I had to do some rebuilding of the EPS conduits that Quark and Igeba had been tapping into so the holosuites could work.” Lar laughed. "Quark likes to keep his overhead low, it's good business practice. I'm glad you found your way to the fights and hope you enjoy them. How did you hear about us? Know one of the fighters?" "Ah yes! The new guy fighting tonight. I heard he has good credentials. His opponent though… hmm. A hard choice there. Never bet against a winner unless you have inside information." “This guy, Hercules Devers, is a crewman on the ship. He’s supposed to be some weightlifting badass. I don’t know him personally, but he’s been in the thick of it on our last mission and got a commendation for his actions.: Lar shrugged. "It should be a good fight. If he wins I'll have to adjust the odds on his next fight. Do you have a favorite hangout on the base?" “Seems the crew has adopted the Red Sands as our home away from home, so to speak. The food is better than in the officer's mess. Not sure what they do, but I usually get there about 1800 or so, just as it’s filling up.” "Good to know. I might look you up while you're here. There's a business opportunity you might be interested in." Lar shook several more hands as their owners passed by. “That sounds intriguing Lar. We’re only in port for a few more days,” Gregory said, “At least till the ship is restocked and all. I bet get my bet in before you go changing the odds on me.” Lar grinned. "Yes you had. Thank you for the information. You have about two minutes." Well it was actually less than one but don't let the customer get the idea you are cheating them. It's bad for business. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Tim Bushnell (Dieter Gregory) And Charles G (Lar) (Earth-Tsalagihi Ayehli-Tahlequah, Oklahoma- FSXO- Lt. (Jg) Tempest Grey Wolf- 1801) They ate corn roasted in coals and a side of beef that had been turned on a spit over that fire for most of the day. Fry bread had been cooked from a skillet and pinto beans from a cast iron kettle. There was beer and iced tea in plenty as well as lemonade for the children. After eating till she could hold no more Tempest cleaned up inside and put on her ribbon dress which is also called a prayer dress. Once it was fully dark the men moved all traces of the feast from around the coals of the fire and built it up while the women made ready. Drums were set outside the circle of the firelight and 3 men began to play, synching their timing quickly while another of Jason Red Feather's brothers took up a flute that appeared made from bone. https://youtu.be/6dxFlXZ4kBw Tempest and several of the women wearing ribbon dresses made their way to the fire and began dancing slowly and precisely around it within the circle made by the men. The steps were intricate but she had done this countless times at numerous powwows in the past. These gatherings showcased the best and their dances were both demonstration and competition. They continued in silence with only the music to accompany them for ten minutes. Then the medicine chief began to chant as the music changed. https://youtu.be/9UglUjiJifA The other women dropped away from the dance one by one until only she remained, still moving slowly until finally stopping she sank to her knees as the men returned to the original drumbeat and flute. The medicine chief began circling the fire, the wolf skin draped over his neck and upper back from a mask made in the likeness of a wolf. He reached her, turned and spun away as the drummers took up a chant. She closed her eyes, the music merging with the background. (Visionscape- FSXO- Lt. (Jg) Tempest Grey Wolf- 1945) She was standing once more upon the rocky mound but it was not alone having been joined by others. She moved her gaze around trying to count the spires but it was difficult, her perspective was uncertain and it made a sure count nearly impossible. She finally gave in, sure the number was between five and seven but uncertain beyond that. Then the peaks were gone and the countryside was once again dotted with fires but now they had diminished and were once again in their place. She moved around the pinnacle but the blaze that had threatened to ignite the sky was gone. It was then that she had an idea. It WAS as though looking at stars on a background of night and she was a navigator. If the blaze that had gone out was Bajor then she could use it to extrapolate others. She moved around, her eyes sweeping, probing then found one obvious anomaly. "There is no recorded planet there." Her eyes were fixed on a point far from Bajor though in its general direction. But there was too much here to take in if she was correct. She spotted movement out of the corner of her eye and turned to see her spirit guide gazing at her. She dropped to her haunches and looked into the eyes of the wolf. "What is this you show me Wa-Ya? What is it I must do?" The wolf turned and she followed its gaze to a path between rocks. She squared her shoulders and stepped forward following the trail that had never been here before. She lost track of time but came to a cul-de-sac like a blind canyon though much smaller. As she walked in she saw movement and turned toward it. Sienna Verin was moving away from her. Something huge and monstrous rose between them. The breath caught in Tempest's throat as it moved toward the other woman. Though she felt fear she forced a shout from her throat and sprang for it as fast as her legs would carry her. There was a blur of an insectoid head and tough chitinous legs that were wickedly barbed as it turned toward her. Its digits were also clawed, she saw them catch the light as they came toward her. The creature seemed to tower over her. She screamed in fury as those sharp appendages descended toward her, she had no weapon! She opened her eyes and she still squatted before the Wa-Ya, the wolf spirit. She drew in a shuddering breath as she stood. "I see Wa-Ya. I must protect her. From what I do not know." Her spirit guide turned and walked away from her, its purpose complete for now and she opened her eyes. (Earth-Tsalagihi Ayehli-Tahlequah, Oklahoma- FSXO- Lt. (Jg) Tempest Grey Wolf- 2010) She stood up light headed and moved away from the fire which was burning down. Jason Red Feather was waiting for her. "You were gone for a long while. You found what you seek?" She nodded. "Yes." "And what were you shown?" "The place on which I stood was Earth, the land of the Tsalagihi. The fires were stars. And my purpose it to protect." The medicine chief nodded. "This is the task given you by the spirits. I know their trust has not been misplaced. Was there anything else?" "Yes but I do not understand it yet. I know that I will in time however." He smiled. "You are learning. Go home, rest, visit your parents. It is time to live and take strength for the future." "I will need it." She thanked him and the others then left. There was much to think on. (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) (Mars – Civilian Sports Complex - Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 2000) It was time, Devers was up. His opponent was indeed Vodux of House Konjah, and from what he heard, the odds makers were betting the Klingon would win. He shook his head, no time for that now. Dressed in his purple robe, his corner members in front of him, he waited till the introduction. As the first drumbeat started, his team started to walk slowly in front of him. https://youtu.be/btPJPFnesV4 The crowd was already excited from the earlier card fights. Devers walked slowly into the arena to boos and jeers. That was to be expected for the underdog. A position he relished. This would be a real test of his training, his skill. He was ready. He approached the octagon, inside the ring, dressed in a white gi, a black belt around his waist was a Cardassian. From the opposite side of the Arena, Devers watched as a Klingon in a blue gi walked down the aisle. The crowd started to cheer as he came into sight. Devers shrugged off his robe, revealing his preferred uniform. Shorts, fingerless gloves. He tied a purple band on his head as the Klingon reached the octagon. The Cardassian in the ring stepped into the middle of the octagon, he pointed a short white stick at Devers. “Now enters the sands of time, Hercules Devers, of Earth.” Devers climbed into to ring, moving to his designated corner. The Cardassian pointed the stick at the Klingon, “Now enters the sands of time, Vodux of House Konjah, from Klingon.” The crowd went wild as Vodux climbed into the ring. “Warriors, approach.” Devers and Vodux met in the middle of the ring, separated by the white baton. Vodux had a good 6 inches and probably 50 pounds on Devers. As the two sized each other up, the Cardassian continued. “Fight with bravery. Fight with honor.” He raised the baton and pointed to Devers, then Vodux. “Begin,” he said stepping back with the baton raised over his head. The two warriors began to circle each other, telegraphing different moves to see what their opponent would do. Vodux let out a roar, and charged toward Devers, who stepped to the side and got Vodux with an elbow strike. Turning around, Vodux used his superior reach to land a combination on Devers body. Devers replied with a jumping push kick that sent Vodux backwards. The two begin circling again as the crowd started chanting “Vodux…. Vodux.” This time, Devers began the attack. A rapid combination of punches that caught Vodux off-guard. Sensing an advantage, he moved to deliver a flying knee strike to Vodux’s chin. Vodux reacted quickly, deflecting the knee and landing a blow that spun Devers around. As Vodux went to press his advantage, Devers ducked low and delivers an elbow strike to Vodux’s knee. The Klingon grunted as he stopped his attack, Devers rolled away, ending up behind Vodux. Enraged, the Klingon turned around and launched himself at Devers again, catching the human with a deviating headbutt, followed by a punch to the chin. Devers fell to the mat as the Cardassian came over, pointing the baton at the prone man. “One… two…” the crowd began to chant. “Three.. four..” Devers took deep breaths and sprung back to his feet, blood on his face. Smiling, Devers stretched out his right hand, and made a come-hither motion to Vodux. He stood waiting for the Klingon’s attack. Vodux moved cautiously toward Devers, and launched a hook at Devers. The human waited till Vodux was committed before launching a counter, an axe kick that landed a solid blow on Vodux’s shoulder. There was a ‘crack’ as the crowd went silent. Devers followed this up with a roundhouse kick to Vodux’s side. The crowd was silent as Devers pressed his attack. A bell rang, and the two fighters went back to their corners. Collier said, “Watch your middle. He seems to favor the body blows. He might break a rib. Try to get a takedown and use your strikes.” Lannis applied something to the bleeds, as Devers drank some water. The bell rang and the two fighters sprang up again. No nicety, no subtly, Vodux launched another attack at Devers, who dodged the blows, but was backed up against the cage. Vodux landed a combination on Devers body, with a final kick to the man’s thigh. Devers crumpled to the ground, as the bruises started forming on his side. Vodux raised his leg, ready to stomp on Devers. As the Klingon brought his leg down, Devers spun around and kicked the back of the Klingon’s knee, dropping Vodux to the mat. Devers sprung up and landed a series of thrusts with his elbow and knees. When Vodux tried to punch Devers, the man caught the arm in a lock, and elbowed the Klingon’s elbow. With surprising strength, Vodux used his other arm to push Devers off and into the cage again. Vodux took the opportunity to land a series of kicks to Devers side as the bell rang again. Moving slower to his corner, Lannis ran a scan on the man. “Devers you’re looking bad. I see three cracked ribs already. Those last kicks really did you in.” “Don’t let him get you up against the cage. Mobility is your strength,” Collier added. Devers nodded, lost in his own thought. The bell rang for the third round, and the fighters squared up. The fight continued, both fighters cautious testing each other out. Flurry of activity, with punches, kicks and a few throws was really a stalemate till the bell rang to end the third round. “Those ribs are getting worse,” Lannis said, “If he gets a good blow in, that could break them. Puncture a lung.” Devers grunted. “He’s going down. He doesn’t guard his left side well, and he thinks pretty linear. I think I can take him.” “You better, because you might not last to the last round if those ribs break.” The bell rang and the fighters, with renewed energy, moved to engage each other quickly. More probing and quick jabs started the round until Vodux let out a roar and bum-rushed Devers, wrapping him up around the middle and driving him to the ground. As the Klingon landed on top of Devers, there was a crack. Devers winced in pain as he brought his knee up, while slapping both of the Klingon’s ears. Wincing in pain, Vodux rolled off Devers. Taking the opportunity, Devers put the Klingon in a choke hold, while using his knee to push him away. Vodux flayed around, trying to get Devers off him. Slowly, the Klingon’s eyes rolled back into his head and he became limp. Devers moved away, letting Vodux’s head fall to the mat. The Cardassian walked over, pointing the baton at the prone Klingon. The crowd counted out loud. “Nine … Ten.” Vodux’s corner ran over and helped drag the Klingon off. Devers stood up as the Cardassian pointed the baton at Devers. “Hercules Devers has conquered the Mutai and walked with honor in the sands of time.” The crowd cheered as Devers walked, slowly, out of the ring. Lannis and Collier ran over, covering him with his robe. As they walked out, Devers with his hands held high, the crowd kept chanting his name. Leaving the arena, the three made their way back to the changing room. There Calliban was waiting. “A good fight, Devers. Here is your bar of Latium. I could you use on the circuit. You gave a good showing.” Devers took the Latium, “A pleasure Mr. Calliban. But I have a job.” He coughed and some blood came out. Lannis looked concerned, “We need to get you to a doctor, Devers.” Devers coughed some more. Collier grabbed his com badge. “Medical emergency, three to beam to sickbay. Page Dr. Solice.” The three dematerialized, leaving Calliban wondering what was next. (Reply Solice) (Posted by Tim) (Mars Base -- Medical -- Illuminar CMO Lt. Quinna Solice -- 2055) Quinna sat quietly in sickbay. She was in her secret dark storage room. There she was having a romantic interlude. The romance that never failed her. Chocolate. This time it was chocolate snack cakes. She wished had brought some milk in the closet with her. “Doctor, Solice to Medical” Quinna was paged. She stood and walked out of the storage room and into the main infirmary area. She saw the men materialized. “What happened here,” Quinna asked as she moved to help. She looked at Hercules and frowned. “What have you gotten yourself into. Someone better Explain.” (Reply Devers, Vodux, Collier) “Really, How Barbaric.” Quinna replied as she was assessing the damage.” (Reply Devers, Vodux, Collier) “Why can’t you guys take your frustrations and be productive, like finding a fine lady and make mad passionate love.” Quinna Suggested. (Reply Devers, Vodux, Collier) (Played by Kris) (Mars Base – Medical – Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 2100) Devers, Lannis and Collier materialized in sickbay. Devers handed the Latinum to Lannis and winced in pain. “Give… Give this to … support children who lost parents in action,” he said, coughing more blood. Lannis took the bar, “You got it Herc.” Dr. Solace appeared in the main infirmary. “What happened here?” “Can’t breathe. Broken rib,” he said. The man was also covered with bruises and there was a cut on the mans forehead, crudely treated. “What have you gotten yourself into? Someone better explain.” “Should see… the other guy.” Herc said, coughing blood. Lannis, holding a bar of Latinum, spoke up “Deevers won an octagon match against a Klingon.” “Really, how barbaric,” the doctor replied. Collier shrugged, “Not barbaric, a time honored tradition. This was a bit rougher than most, but Devers held his own, getting the knock out.” “Why can’t you guys take your frustrations and be production, like finding a fine lady and make mad passionate love,” the doctor said. Devers was about to make a cutting retort but went limp and fell to the ground. (Reply Solice) (Posted by Tim) (Mars Base – Medical – CMO Lt. Quinna Solice -- 2115) Quinna fell to the ground and scanned. She was more sure of his state. “Medics” Quinna called after. They needed to get Devers off the ground and onto a table. “Gently,” Quinna ordered. “Take it easy.” Getting a more detailed analysis, she signed, “Get him prepped for surgery.” Quinna said. She then realized that there was an audience around her. “He will be ok. Have the medics look at you.” Quinna left and went to prep for surgery. She had her list. She could heal broken ribs, heal bumps and bruises, but she could not heal punctured ribs. The surgical apparatus surrounder Devers, Quinna approached fully sanitized in surgical gear. Though she would not actually put her hands in Devers, the inside of his body would be exposed. She let the surgical bots pull the ribs out of his lung where they punctured. While some of the bots weaved the lung tissue back together, others were working on fusing the ribs from the inside. After about 45 minutes, Devers was out of surgery and back on a biobed resting comfortably. And Quinna, dutifully waiting for her patient to awake. (Reply Devers. Awake, Devers, Awake) (Posted by Kris) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 4 - DECOMPRESSION >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar – Deck 1- Ready Room - CO, Captain Sekal – 0730) It was still early yet and the quantum torpedo warheads had been safely stored on board after being inspected and locked away in the torpedo magazine the day before. The engineering complement for the refit was due in shortly but something came across his monitor that he found intriguing. "Computer open a channel to Utopia Planitia logistics." [[ Channel open. ]] "Utopia Planitia this is Captain Sekal of Illuminar. I have just received notice of a science officer coming aboard the ship today. Can you confirm?" =^= I'm confirming that for you now Captain, stand by.-^=. He folded his arms for a moment. =^= Captain I can confirm a transfer to your ship. An Ensign Skashe Winters is enroute to you.=^= "Interesting. Please inform the officer he will be meeting with me personally and I will be available in the Ready Room when he arrives." It was unnecessary to note that he was currently the only command officer aboard. =^= Copy that Captain, I'm messaging him now. Is there anything else I can do for you?=^= "Negative that will be sufficient, thank you. Illuminar out." This situation was highly unusual with the vessel being crewed down at space dock however he had the available time. The holodeck would have to wait. (USS Illuminar – Deck 8- Main embarkation tube - ScO – Ensign (sg) Skashe Winters- 0740) The being entering the ship looked like a Vulcan at first glance but subsequent looks would have caused confusion in the witness because while he had the tapered, pointed ears of a member of that species and the coloration that was where the comparison ended. He was humming a tune as he walked easily down the gangway with a jaunty smile upon his face. He was the brother of Celiste Winters and son of Admiral Vanyssa Winters and Captain Ketal. He was wearing a teal uniform of the sciences division and carryring two bags, one in hand and the other slung over the opposite shoulder. He had requested a transfer from Mars base after hearing his sister had been assigned to Illuminar and it had come through with undue speed, no doubt due to his mother who was over personnel and logistics. He chuckled as he stepped onto the ship and looked around at the gorgeous interior color scheme. "Nice. Platinum and cobalt blue go well together." His PADD beeped and he pulled it out of the shoulder bag and looked at the message. "Bearding the lion in his den eh? Looks like I'm starting this day off right. Ready or not Captain here I come." He moved toward the turbolift as he whistled. His parentage could be considered a strange mix since he was half Betazoid, one quarter Vulcan and one quarter Human. That came from a mother who was full Betazoid and a father who was half Vulcan and half human. His father from what he understood had been tormented up until the time he had bonded with his mother with his mixed parentage and the clash of cultures. Ambassador Spock had been the first Vulcan/Human hybrid recorded but not the last. While logic had won out over Spock however his father had not been so fortunate having been subject to uncontrolled emotional lapses. That was until Vanyssa had stabilized him and he had found a solid middle ground upon which to take his stand. Vulcan fathers were whispered to be distant and uncaring, not so with Ketal who could best be catagorized as doting, especially over his daughters. Skashe however had been a strong willed boy and they had their clashes but Ketal had waited until those were over and rebuilt the bridge once again. To this day he and his father maintained a close relationship. Skashe had no doubt that they had both been in on expediting the transfer so that he could be here to watch over Celiste. He had that idea as well but even more he wanted to use his speciality aboard a ship rather than a base which quickly got boring. With the Federation on the move again the fronteir was the place for him. (USS Illuminar – Deck 1- Ready Room - CO, Captain Sekal and SPC ScO- Ensign (sg) Skashe Winters – 0815) There had been no time specified for check-in so Skashe had been in no hurry and had explored the decks above 8 just a little before taking the lift to the bridge. He stopped before the door as the computer intoned. [Captain Sekal will be with you shortly.] He didn't have to wait more than a few seconds though before the door slid open. "Come." He walked into the Captain's office on the bridge and whistled as he looked around to the right at the shelf with the plaque above it, a strange looking phaser and a hefty blue crystal turning slowly over a small display disc. The furniture in the room was modern but warm, not something you would expect owing to the inhabitant. The Captain as he noted was Vulcan and sitting tall in the chair. He came to attention. "Ensign Skashe Winters reporting for duty sir." "At ease Ensign and take a seat." The Vulcan pointed to one of the chairs before the desk and he complied. "Thank you sir." "Your arrival was unexpected." This was a typical Vulcan he was facing, calm, cool, unemotional though his tone wasn't as flat as he expected. While he couldn't claim he heard warmth in it it appeared to be softened quite a bit. Skashe had learned from his mother that the CO's mother was a diplomat and a noted one at that. Had he spent a lot of time around other species and learned how to converse in a tone that wasn't as stiff? It certainly sounded like it! "I'm sorry sir but the transfer came through a lot faster than expected. I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time." He kept a grin off his face at the curious look the CO gave him. "No, it is not a bad time. Merely unexpected in that the ship has been crewed down for leave. Your last name is familiar." "An Admiral's kid just like you are sir." He almost lost it at THAT questioning look. "Admiral Winters is my mother and my sister Celiste just transferred here recently." The Captain nodded. "I see. A science officer." "Yes sir. high energy particle physics primarily with a secondary in stellar cartography." "Much like myself." Skashe shook his head. "Oh no sir! Not near to your level. I've read about your breakthroughs and without buttering you up I can say your shoes are way too big to fill." There were a LOT of questions he wanted to ask but now wasn't the time and the Captain didn't have time to be his personal tutor, he could slip some in later while he was studying up on the ships systems. "But I will be a complement to your science team sir. And a scandal to my sister no doubt." He had to grin at that point. "Very good Ensign." He knew it wasn't going to happen but he had to throw it in anyway. "Everyone calls me Sky sir." He was about to get the shock of his life. The Vulcan tilted his head. "Understood Sky however there are protocols to be observed. I have assigned you to cabin eighteen on deck three. You may drop your bags off there but you are on leave until 0800 the day after tomorrow. You may do with your time as you wish. When you report in your senior officer will be Lieutenant Jaton Alyl." Sky stood to his feet agog. "Yes sir, thank you sir." "Dismissed Ensign." Skashe saluted again. "Yes sir, one last thing. This is a beautiful ship, thank you for having me aboard." ~I mean roses everywhere, great color scheme, the latest and greatest tech. This is going to be fun. Sekal nodded. "Thank you." Then stood to his feet as well, he apparently had somewhere to be so Skashe scooted out. (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 5 - DECOMPRESSION >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base, Security Facility - Second Officer, Cmdr. Carson Peters - 09:30) Carson walked into the Security building. Thinking about it, it hadn’t really been that long since he’d been here, but it felt like an eternity. The whole crazy ride towards the Illuminar had started when he’d been given- what at the time felt like- a punishment posting on Mars as a Security Officer. Having spent over a year chasing down Admiralty at the top most echelons of Starfleet trying to make sure the Investigations into the untimely deaths of his colleagues at the Starfleet Headquarters didn’t just peter out into nothing. Shunted off into a posting which promised no action, no responsibilities and absolutely no prospects it had all changed once he arrived. Admiral Remae made that very clear in his first speech to the incredibly large contingent of fresh-faced Ensigns. Being one of the most experienced officers in the Security department the Admiral had promoted Carson to run Security on the base. He knew he’d rubbed a few noses the wrong way in the first few weeks in the job. He had to have been doing something correctly though, otherwise the promotion after promotion wouldn’t have come his way. “Chief,” he saw Lardon nod to him as he walked past. Smiling, Carson nodded back. Habits were hard to break and when you’d been calling someone “Chief” for over a year, changing it to “Commander” when they were only back for a few days was probably fairly hard. “I’m looking for Ensign Lee.” he said in response. “I think I saw him heading towards the Amoury, Chi… Commander.” he caught himself that time. “Thanks Lards.” Carson replied as he tapped the Petty Officer on the shoulder. “Everything alright around here?” he asked. “Of course, Sir.” Lardon snapped off a salute, but his eyes gave a different response. Carson tapped the side of his phaser in response, which would indicate to the officer that he understood the meaning. “Thank-you, Petty Officer Lardon.” he said as he resumed his search for Keung. (Mars Base, Security Facility, Armoury - Second Officer, Cmdr. Carson Peters & Assistant Chief Security Officer, Ensign Keung Lee - Time 0945) For most of the morning, Ensign Keung Lee had been given a tour of the Armoury by the Armoury officer CPO Alice Davies. The layout of the huge chamber consisted of a large working office, strong rooms, weapons workshops and a firing range. He was led to an entrance which CPO Alice described as “this is our garage.” This was a large area containing a variety of assorted ground military vehicles and armoured shuttles. Keung was impressed and Alice took him to her office where she logged onto her computer. A holographic display appeared which displayed equipment and weapons stored in the various secure strong rooms. Keung inwardly gasped at just the he first page of the display of what was available General equipment Anti Grav Cart Armband Tricorder Bio damper Armbands Portable Personal Weapons Case Large Weapons Container Federation Head Mounted Camera Mark VI Tricorder Mark VII Tricorder Portable Emergency Transmitter Forcefield Generator Transport Inhibitor Energy Weapons Phaser weapons Type-I Phaser Type-II Phaser Type-III Phaser Rifle Compression Phaser Rifle Isomagnetic Disintegrator Modified Polaron Emitter If that is just the first page of what is available, what did the other pages show thought Keung. Weapons of mass destruction, Keung recalled a phrase that was used in his time. “Every Starship will have a standard issue of weapons in addition to specialised weapons dependant on the class of ship. As you know, the Illuminar is a Science vessel that doesn't have all these weapons in the armoury. She’s not a warship” Explained Alice, waving her arms at the display. “I notice from your requisition that you want to include a few non energy weapons. I might be able to accommodate that…have a look.” Alice enabled the next page on the display to reveal Kinetic weaponry Glock 17. L115A3 Long range 'sniper' rifle. L129A1 sharpshooter rifle. M16 5.56mm rifle / carbine Heckler & Koch G3 7.62mm battle rifle F Heckler & Koch K G36 assault rifle Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun Sig Sauer P226. Remington 870 Arwen 37 Tear gas canister launcher Claymore personnel mine M203 40mm grenade launcher Stinger – Shoulder fired Surface to Air missile Keung whistled in surprise as she recognised the weapons. “How?” “Oh, they all replicated but with a few enhancements from our technicians. Actually, there is one weapon I would like your opinion on given your history…coming from the past. Let’s go to the firing range” Alice led a bemused Keung to the firing range. Keung wondered how she knew that he came from the 21st Century. That was classified information. “Do you recognise this?” asked Alice as she pointed to a weapon on the rack. On the weapons rack was the Barrett M82A1 'Light Fifty' sniper rifle. A rifle that Keung was familiar with. He went and picked it up. An old friend but there was something different about it. “We made some adjustments “explained Alice “In standard explosive-propellant bullets, this improved version used a series of supercharged Gauss magnets to propel a projectile down the barrel toward a target. It does require an enormous amount of energy but it generated very little sound, even less heat and could achieve a muzzle velocity far in excess of the old-fashioned firearm rounds.. In early field trials, the muzzle velocity of the average rifle was 400 metres per second. We think it might be effective against…like the Borg.” “Any chance of firing this weapon?” said Keung as he held the rifle feeling the weight. Alice picked up a pair of ear protectors and safety glasses, giving a set to Keung. The box of bullets was on the desk. As Keung began loading the rifle, he noticed Commander Carson Peters approached him. Keung stood up straight and saluted the Commander. “At ease, Ensign.” Carson said as Keung stood to attention, “Alice.” he said as he nodded to the woman by Keung's side. She smiled at him and said, “Ensign Keung here was about to give us a demonstration.” as she handed him a pair of acoustic ear protectors and protective glasses. “Really?” Carson asked over-enthusiastically, “Well, Ensign Keung. Let’s see what you’re made of. Which weapon are you choosing?” “Well this weapon. The Barrett M82A1 ‘Light Fifty’ sniper rifle which I understand has been modified”” said Keung, pointing at the weapon. Keung hefted the replicated copy. He could only marvel at its heft and compactness. He loaded the ammunition and raised the weapon, then flicked the safety off and took aim at the target board, a three-quarter man-sized silhouette 25m away. . The loud report of the weapon was followed quickly by a portion of the target board exploding in a shower of wood fragments. A second, then a third, fourth and fifth gunshot echoed around the firing range at elegant intervals. The hits were spaced in a neat, tidy circle in the centre of the target. He checked that the slide had locked open with the magazine and firing chamber empty, before placing the weapon down on the desktop, muzzle facing the target, and took off his protective eyewear and acoustic ear protectors. Only then Keung turned to look at Commander Carson with an invitation by placing the weapon to him Carson took the weapon and began to handle it, “It’s been some time, since I used a Kinetic form of weapon Keung.” “You're welcome to have a go” invited Keung. He was curious about how Commander Carson would cope with a ballistic non energy weapon that was heavier than an phaser rifle Nodding, he stepped forward and double checked the safeties and that the range was clear. “FIRING. LIVE AMMUNITION.” before pulling the trigger. The recoil was more than he’d expected and it took a second to readjust himself for it. “Well. What you think?” asked Keung “I think it’s as effective as all Kinetic weapons are. Loud and noisy.” “Notice the difference here between using a phaser and a weapon like this. Loud bangs and the fact that you can’t even see where the shot comes from adds to the confusion. You see phaser doesn’t have that same effect it has on a victim. Okay, they are stunned or the opposite extreme of being vapourised. What does the enemy do..they carry on but with a ballistic weapon…see a bloodied body with their bits missing. Might deter further action, It is quite a weapon. I think the sheer amount of noise it makes alone is worth the advantage of shock and surprise in any firefight.” “And..” interrupted Alice “the modifications to this rifle were also designed for energy-dampening or radiogenic environments, where conventional energy weapons are useless. It fires a caseless ceramic round using standard chemical propellant.” She then picked up a bullet from the counter. Holding up the round between her thumb and index finger “you were to use that rifle on the Borg, They wouldn’t be able to assimilate to create a barrier, based on your energy released fired laser bolt. Striking them in the right places, with a primitive projectile would piece their body armor, and bounce around inside their body, creating a most devastating wound, probably fatal.” Keung had never personally encountered a Borg but had seen reports on the capacity of the Borg. He noted that there were a number of ‘primitive weapons’ stored in the Main armoury that would work against the Borg. “So you’re not of the mind that the sound gives your position away in a fire fight? Don’t get me wrong, this sort of weaponry has its place in our armament. I’m not keen on them becoming a day to day rotation though?” “Maybe we could requisition some non-energy weapons for the Illuminar. Although I notice that we have some bladed weapons onboard.” Keung looked at Commander Carson for an answer. ”Bearing in mind we are primarily a Science vessel. I will, of course, provide training for the Security team and crew members. Although they have to go through a certification course to be able to use such ballistic weapons.” “I’m happy to sign the requisition Ensign. No worries there. But I’ll expect to see extremely high lockdown procedures and authorisation required for use. These weapon’s need to be guarded 24/7 and signed in and out with triple layer security. Best to have this type of weapon aboard and never use it, than to need it and not have it. I’m not sure whether Captain Sekal would agree, but I’ll take that flak if it comes.” “Thank you, Commander. Procedures will be put into place. I will work with Alice and her team to see what non energy weapons will be appropriate on top of our allocation of energy weapons and equipment.” said Keung, who then glanced at Alice “Certainly” smiled Alice. “I will arrange with the quartermaster to discuss your requirements, Ensign. It will take a couple of days but I will send the completed requisition form to you Commander to sign. Could you give me a rough idea when you want the weapons delivered, Commander?” “Any time before we depart.” Carson said cheerfully, “Keung.” he nodded away. “Will you be at the Hammons/Alaya wedding tonight?” “I probably will.” said Keung “Well I’ll see you there. Let me know if you need anything else.” Carson walked away. (reply none) (Posted by John + Jono) (Mars Base, Security Facility, Armoury - Assistant Chief of Security, Ensign Keung Lee - 1200) Keung spent the last two hours n one of the strong weapons where he was compiling a list of suitable non energy weapons on his Padd when Alice walked in. “Have you a moment” she asked. “We got a new..er. new toy that you might want to look at. Interested?” Keung turned from looking at his Padd. Nothing like a bit of alternative activity, Alice led Keung to an another entrance which marked ‘Testing area. Authorised personnel only”, She press the access buttons on the entry panel and they entered a large workshop. He noticed a sort of armoured EVA suit on a display stand.. "It's a prototype weapons system developed by Starfleet Weapons Technology labsI.” Said Alice.” “What you see here"is a body-sized chassis of light armour and equipment over an exoskeleton, with form-fitting temperature-controlled bodysuits and full servo, electronics and augmentation suite as advanced as we can create Keung walked around the suit which was on a stand. It didn't look even remotely at all like the clunky EVA suits Starfleet used for space walks. It was black and sinewy, made of some hybrid alloy-fabric material that was form-fitting and seemed to absorb the light around it. He noticed that the helmet The helmet was fronted with a smoothly curved low-reflective surface with no distinguishing features. It was all black - or some colour that looked dark. ". It is designed to be an all-terrain, all-weather suit This includes a complete life-support system which can run independently for eight hours before recharging, and the recycle unit replenishes itself naturally over 24 hours inside a breathable atmosphere. In addition, the suit provides full protection from gases, vacuum and hard radiation. The suit's fabric is made of a new alloy, which is flexible and automatically moulds to the body. They're still working on the nanotech adaptive camouflage skin. The material is also coated with a refractive coating that automatically blends with the ambient lighting, and is impervious to phaser-fire at low settings." Continued Alice. "You mean stun," said Keung. Hehe pointed to the display, "How about the helmet?" Alice zoomed in, "The helmet comes with built-in targeting system that is linked into the suit's 360-degree close-proximity sensors. Functions are voice-activated, with standard life support and atmospheric recycling systems. Behind the right ear, there is an extensible telescope which raises to three feet - good if you want to look above walls or around corners without poking your head out." "How good is it for EVA?" "Not much," Alice admitted. "Apart from the built-in respiratory life-support, it doesn't have much in the way of insulation. You could spend a minute, maybe two, in an open vacuum, before you start freezing. We have three volunteers trying it out in a holodeck suite.” She glanced at her watch. “Should receive the results just about now. Shall we?” she pointed the way out. Just as they left the workshop, the entrance to the Holosuite opened. Four medics were pushing two anti-grav stretchers out of the Holosuite. On the stretchers, Keung could see two figures in the ruined blackish suit and heavy bruises on their faces. One of the weapons technicians appeared carrying a padd and approached Alice with a grim impression “Status report, Joe?” asked Alice, alarmed at what she just seen as the medical team left the Armoury with the casualities. “The safety protocols were off at the insistence of the users. Marine volunteers! There are a a number of problems that was associated with the AES battle suit. Once enclosed inside the only way a wearer would see out would be using the helmet’s internal vision. It malfunctioned so the they could not see anythingIf Although the wearers were protected by its armour, d, there was no support system protecting them from being knocked about over the place. All the volunteers were found with bruises!! The stealth element of the suit didn’t really work either.” Reported Joe as he looked a this Padd. “Excuse me Ensign. I need to debrief Joe more” Said Alice, looking depressed. Well so much for that..a failed piece of kit” thought Keung. It was an interesting idea although the reality is that in some although in some cultural, politico situations it would imply that Starfleet had designs on being a warhorse!! Certainly inappropriate for a Science ship. He checked the time. Well have a break and go for lunch (reply none) (posted by John) (Mars Base, Security Quarters - 2O, Commander Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt. Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 1710) "Come on.. my darling." Carson shouted through the apartment lyrically, "Love of my life, why do you take SO long?" he added to the end and fell about laughing. He shouldn't find it funny but he did. Since Alaya had asked Vex to be a part of the wedding, it had been a source of increasing amusement. "We could just stay here. Say you got horrifically ill." Vex said as she popped her head out of the door to the bedroom. "I could make it worth your while." "Not. A. Chance." He replied, enunciating every syllable. "I'd have to be on my deathbed not to show up and you, well I don't think it'd be looked upon favourably." he raised his eyebrow. "It's not going to be bad. Come on. I don't even have to and I'm joining in." He had decided to follow with the traditional Betazed customer of nudeness during the ceremony. It was an honor thing. He couldn't let Vex do it when she was wholly against the idea without backing her up and when he'd heard the Captain and his Admiralty parents would be partaking it had just firmed it up in his mind. "For a Betazoid, you're not very in touch with your roots." Carson pointed out. "And?" The question was pointed and accusatory. "No.. nothing. I said nothing." he turned around and began pacing around the room. He'd taken up his old Mars quarters whilst they were staying on the base. He heard a muffled scream from the bedroom and then a large sigh before Vex stepped around the doorway. She was wearing a light blue, thin shift dress which could easily be removed from the back. "You look beautiful." Carson encouraged her, "Yes. But I'm about to look ridiculous once we get there." Vex snapped back. He walked over and took her into his embrace, held her there for a moment. "I'll be right there with you." "Not right there." "Well a few steps away. Anyway, who will be looking at you when they can look at me?" he winked before dropping the gown he was wearing from his shoulders and span. She whistled and then began laughing. "How are we getting there? I hope you're not planning on walking the length of the base nude?" "Of course not, Computer- site to site transport. Authorisation, Commander Carson Peters." [[Initiating]] The beam grabbed onto Carson, Vex and the large crystal like rock which was dangling from her necklace- a housed Luma ready to participate at the wedding. (Reply none) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Mars Base, Arboretum Garden - 2O, Commander Carson Peters & aCEO, Lt. Vex'ahlia Jordaan - 1750) Vex was still wearing the scant, light blue shift dress as she meandered through the wedding crowd. It was difficult concentrating on those around here, the nude and the not, Luma chattering away and looking for her quarry. Alaya had mentioned the day before that fellow Counsellor Ariel was planning on singing something after the wedding, she'd urgently asked Vex as a favour to find out what she was likely to sing and nudge her in a certain direction. In the stress and worry about being completely naked in front of most of her colleagues and friends Vex had one hundred percent forgotten about the request until Alaya had asked her about it moments prior. ~I'll be right back.~ Was all she'd said and then dashed off. She was finding it more difficult to find Counsellor Trei than she'd anticipated. She could have let Luma aid her and reached out with her mind, but with so many telepaths & empaths around she wasn't confident enough in doing so. Even when Luma reminded her that Vex herself was likely the strongest telepath in the room and then you add Luma to the mix. "Oh." she said, as she stopped suddenly. Carson was standing talking to a few guests and he'd already done away with the gown he'd been wearing. ::He's enjoying this too much:: Vex commented to Luma. He'd noticed her be now and split away from the group to come towards her, "Is it time?" he asked, "Time..No.. I'll get ready moments before I have to and that's that. Have you seen the Counsellor?" "The Bride to be? I thought you were just with her... Oh no, we haven't got a missing Bride have we?" he immediately stood up a little straighter and began assessing the situation. "No, calm down for goodness sake. Ariel not Alaya." "Oh," he smiled, "Yes I believe she's...." scanning the room, "Over there" starting to move in the direction, he put his arm around Vex and guided here. "You know, there's a certain level of irony here that you're probably the most uncomfortable person here and you're from the culture which demands this tradition?" "It's not lost on me." Vex said, "I may be a Betazoid, but I've barely ever stepped foot on the planet. I grew up in private education on Earth." she sighed. "But you know this." "I know.. I just find it funny and the more I can keep my mind on the funny side of it, the easier I find it." They'd made their way over to Trei now. "Ariel?" Vex said as they got closer. The Counsellor had chosen to come to the wedding clothed, exactly as she'd have preferred to do. At least for now she had some semblance of modesty via the dress. "I'm sorry, I was meant to come find you yesterday. Alaya mentioned you'd offered to sing at the party after the wedding?" (Reply Trei) "She was hoping you could do something by an artist called ED SHEE-RAN, is that OK?" (Reply TreI) "Well I'm sure it'll sort itself out. Thanks." and she turned back. "Right, I better get back... and get.. well I need to remove this dress." Carson winked at her as she hurried away. He checked the time and then decided to find a place as close to the front as he could get without being obnoxious. (Reply Trei, any) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Mars Base- Arboretum Garden- Federation Ambassador at Large/Priest of the goddess- Dr. Riven Mias- 1755) The grounds had been converted temporarily for a special occasion. Beds of colorful, exotic and fragrant flowers bordered an area that had been set aside. Those who were to make their grand entrance would be walking between rows of the vibrant foliage knee deep at times. A large gong that was the hue of polished brass and inlaid with crisp etchings depicting the goddess of Betazed hung suspended within a frame of lacquered cherry wood. The gong itself was fully as wide as a man's stretched out arm and its frame was decorated with garlands of cherry blossoms. The apparatus was to one side of the cleared area. Doctor Riven Mias, Priest of the goddess held in his right hand the striker for the gong. The handle of the striker was composed of the same metal but the head had a silvery sheen and was an alloy which had been lovingly created who knows how many generations ago. Its purpose was to bring out the deepest, richest note that the metal plate could provide. Riven was going to walk forward shortly to sound the note that would begin the proceedings. He was currently holding it at his side as he looked about the area. Those gathered to watch the rite stood on the periphery of the central garden itself where the ceremony was to take place and most of them had no idea of what was going to happen here today. It went back for uncounted years of Betazed history. Everything had its purpose including the unclothed state of the participants and the actions that would follow. Riven himself was as naked as the day he was born as was his wife, the wedding party and many of the guests. It symbolized complete openness, the absence of secrets and the purity of the bond that was about to be accepted. The area however had been screened off for the privacy of the participants. The air within the dome of the arboretum was chill but stopped short of causing goose flesh. Steven Hammons the groom was partially hidden in the background by a raised blanket, he had complained of a draft of air. Riven knew better but he had hidden his smile and nodded gravely at the complaint. While the telepathic moral laws protected him from having his thoughts read it was child's play to pick up on his emotions, the man was nervous and embarrassed. The blanket would be shed for the ceremony though, there was nothing that could be hidden from the bond. Riven looked toward the wedding guests and his eyes passed over them quickly until they reached the small knot of Vulcans. The laughter that bubbled up inside him was joyous not derisive but he held it down nevertheless and walled it off with a smile. Not every Vulcan who was in attendance was unclothed of course but the most telling of the group was the Admiral, his wife and son who had expressed the logical conclusion to participate fully in their part in the proceeding with the Betazoids in attendance. The three were likewise naked and completely unfazed by it. ~Well at least logic and the suppression of emotion has some benefits.~ He thought as he smiled brightly at them. ~They don't know and don't care what embarrassment is and would ignore it anyway since it's considered emotional and beneath them. Logic has gone so far around the circle that it's met its opposite.~ Having an Ambassador join into the spirit of things wasn't unusual but an Admiral and a Captain? ::What is the human saying my love? Hell has frozen over?:: He sent to Michaella as he turned his eyes from the Vulcans. It was impolite to laugh at guests so he was removing the temptation. ::Steven has worked himself up into a frenzy over this. It is mildly amusing. I believe you refer to the Admiral's family respecting the tradition. I do not understand the notion of human modesty.:: Michaella spoke softly and distractingly to Steven. The sooner the wedding began, the sooner that he could be back in clothing and hopefully more comfortable. Riven caught his wife's meaning and nodded, it was time to start. He removed the ever present smile from his face and walked the ten steps to the gong, paused at the side and brought up the striker. He took a deep, cleansing breath, closed his eyes for an instant with pleasure then his right arm came around solidly. The two objects met causing a reverberation that flowed richly through the Arboretum and grounds, washing over the guests like a gently massaging wave. He then used the strap around the handle to hang the striker upon the frame as the sound began only very slowly to subside. He began moving to take his place before the assembly. The charms braided into his hair chimed merrily near his ear as he moved but there were no chimes upon his feet as his sandals were absent. He stopped and looked over the wedding guests with a sober expression on his face. The look was completely unlike him but expected because of the weighty nature of the occasion. The time had come, the nuptials were about to begin. He looked toward the groom's father who was likewise naked and had stepped forward to his assigned position to the side with Steven Hammons beyond him as the reverberation of the gong ceased and the groom stepped into view. The bonding ceremony had begun. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles and Melinda G) (Mars Base - arboretum Garden - ACOUNS ACMO LT JG Ariel Trei - 17.57) The scene was set for the wedding. It was a lovely setting with beautiful flowers. The wedding party was naked as the Betazoid tradition suggests. She was amused with seeing Hammons family naked as well. They did not look comfortable. She had to really suppress her empathic senses but still felt their embarrassment. She was not naked as she preferred to be clothed unless she had to be naked formally . Now if this ceremony was on Betazed, she would probably be naked. She will honor the couple later at the reception singing a few songs for them at their request. She waited for the ceremony to begin. (Reply none) (Posted by Edward) (Mars Base - Arboretum Garden – EO Ensign Scott Matrix - 18.01) Scott was uncomfortable to say the least. He was vaguely familiar with Betazoid tradition, but nudity in any public function wasn’t something he was prepared for. Still it was a sign of respect and he understood the meaning. Scott stood on the outskirts of the ceremony in his full-dress uniform and took it all in. This was something he would remember for years to come. He was curious who else would ‘have’ to be naked during these proceedings. High ranking officers, fellow crew…this could be interesting. Looking around he was in awe of the scenery…the flowers, formal decorations, and presentation. This was clearly a special and cherished event. Guests continued to pour into the arboretum, and he took mental note of who was in attendance and waited for the ceremony to begin. (Reply none) (Posted by Steve) (Mars Base - Arboretum Garden - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 18:02) Jaton walked into the arboretum, full dress uniform starched and pressed and not a stitch out of place. Which is more than he could say for many of the other guests at the wedding; half of them hadn't even a stitch, let alone a stitch out of place. He knew what he was getting into and thought he had prepared himself for it. But he still felt his face flushing as he looked around. He felt a little more desperate as he looked around for Sy, and hoped beyond hope the resident cat colony decided to behave. (reply Sy, any) (posted by Spencer) (Mars Base- Arboretum Garden- SecO- PO1 Steven Hammons- 1803) He was terrified but resigned as he stepped out to begin his walk to the area in front of the mind-healer. He was a mixture of emotions at the moment but the one that was coming to the forefront was fury. Fury at being forced to show himself in front of a crowd primarily. The one redeeming factor of this emotion was that it gave him the impetus to take one step after another toward his goal. His father stood in his path but this didn't slow Steven down. As his father reached out a hand to stop him Steven brushed it aside. "Are you sure you aren't making a mistake Steven?" This was said in a whisper and not in the script. Hammon's reply was to put a hand on the man's chest then use his arm as a barrier as though he was pushing his way through a blocker and into the backfield after the quarterback. He shook his head. "Just have to get through their stupid ceremony then I'm home free." He replied with no more volume than his father had used. Breaking clear he made his way with head held high until he stood before the priest. He held his eyes purposefully high as he waited for the woman who would be his bondmate to come forward. His eyes flashed fire at the mind healer and Riven nodded soberly at him. It would take time after the ceremony for the human to calm down and he would give him the room he needed. (Reply: Any, Alaya's turn) (posted by Charles G)