>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 6
Stardate: 2444.06.06
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Facility – Operations Centre – Admiral’s Office - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 1210)
(Mars Facility - Operations Centre - Admiral's Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell - 1212)
(Mars Facility - Admiral's Office - Intelligence Officer Jaelle Foxglove & Admiral Remae Ktell - 1417)
(Mars Facilities - Mess hall - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl and TAC Ensign Ravok Shara  - 16:24)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Mars Facility – Operations Centre – Admiral’s Office - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 1210) 

“Ensign. Come on it… how can I help you?” Admiral Remae said, pointing towards the only chair that wasn’t covered in old equipment or dusty covers.

Jaton took the offered seat, sitting at attention. He was all formality because he knew that he was asking something that he may not deserve and may be above his station.

"I wanted to talk to you about this morning's meeting, sir," he began. "I noticed that I was the only senior member of the science department to be passed over for a chief or assistant chief role and I wanted to know why."

(reply Remae)
(posted by Spencer)

(Mars Facility - Operations Centre - Admiral's Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell - 1212)

Ensign Alyl had a question for the Admiral and he's been expecting it but
he
was quite proud that the Ensign had come to see him to ask directly.

The Trill had a question about why he was passed up for a senior position
when his other contemporaries has been.

"Good question - I am pleased you came in to ask.", he said and looked
over,
"Sit at ease, Ensign.", he said now leaning back in his chair.

"You've been alive for, what, 6 days now? Although you've been cleared for
duty, its not been long enough for me to offer you a senior position at
this
time. You mustn't take this personally, Ensign, I see a bright future for
you. However, not everyone can have a senior position all at the same time
but I can promise you, you will get your shot.", he said smiling slightly
at
the Ensign.

"It may not be what you want to hear right now but I hope that helps. This
is no reflection on you, your skills or ability.", he said before waiting
for the Ensign to speak further, encouraging him to speak up, if he
desired.

(Reply from Alyl)
(Posted by Anthony Keen)

(Mars Facility - Admiral's Office - Intelligence Officer Jaelle Foxglove &
Admiral Remae Ktell - 1417)

Remae had finally managed to get Ensign Foxglove into his room for a
conversation, but she had things on her mind, and it was about time the
Admiral heard her out.

"Sorry, Ensign Foxglove.", he said resuming his seat, "Go ahead.", Ktell
spoke to the Intel Officer and allowed her to speak about the matter that
had brought her to him.

Jaelle took a breath; it was something common she did to steady herself.
Dealing with life and death situations was her daily bread but just
talking
to people holding a conversation was not normally something she cared for
too often.

"Sir, I'm not gonna bet around the bush. There is an abandoned
intelligence
base in the eastern mountain range of this base."

The Admiral simply let the officer continue without interruption.

She gave him a moment to absorb what she said before continuing. "It is my
intent to use this base for the intelligence operations for mars base. But
there are things I need to bring the base to full operation. But before
that, there are tech that might be useful to the rest of the base moving
forward."

"First, the base as a functional deep space sensor array. It's about 25
percent functional right now but once operational we can see what going on
further than before. Second, the base is protected by tactical security
holograms. With your authorization I think security would like the
additional help. It won't solve all their personnel shortages, but it will
help."

"Third, a small number of Valkyrie fighter craft were left behind. Enough
for each squad leader or a small elite fighter wing."

"Fourth, before the intelligence base was shut down they were working on
dark matter energy weapons, both personnel and ship base. A few working
model are present on the base that I think Science would like to take a
look
at."

She took a breath, before getting into the more deeper concerns.

"Sir, I know every few people trust or care for intelligence personnel and
I
understand that. But I want to bridge that gap. I want to share more
information, and technology. I want to do what's right for the Federation
if
the deserve it or not." She stopped letting slip her personal regard for
the
Federation.

"In that regard I will tell you that base is armed with an impressive
armament. In those mountains are two WAR planetary drivers and two
defensive
arrays. With your authorization I would like to implement them into the
mars
defensive matrix. But to do that the base needs power."

"I would need to cannibalize two type nine warp cores taking the main and
the secondary cores from one of Intrepid class starships in orbit should
be
sufficient. We would also need an engineering team assigned to the base."

She stopped and waited and Remae sat back in his chair.

"That was quite a list Ensign.", he said and thought about each matter for
a
moment before replying.

"Let's tackle each of this in turn.", he said and began making notes on a
PADD.

"The base sounds interesting. I would like to tie in the deep space sensor
into the Mars Main Operations Centre. So we can use it from anywhere on
Mars. Security would be very interested in those holograms, I'll let them
know.", he paused for a moment, "More fighters eh? Ensign Williams will
have
a field day with that."

"Dark energy weapons? That's a new one on me, I thin Science would also
enjoy getting involved in investigating that and see what that is about.",
the Admiral made a few more notes.

He wasn't thinking about the base itself, what was it doing on Mars?

"Warp drives, on Mars? I don't think that is possible, Ensign. I will have
Engineering look into it but having that kind of power/conversion on the
surface sounds like a dangerous idea. We can look at other methods. Let's
see what we can do.", he said and make a note to alert Engineering.

"What else can you tell me about the base? How long has it been abandoned
and what was it used for, if you know?", he asked, wondering if the
officer's new approach to bridging the gap between intelligence and
everyone
else.

"The base used to belong to S31, Starfleet intelligence used it when they
wanted to distance themselves from the main base acting as a bridge
between
S31 and the Federation. From the bases computer it's been abandoned since
the Federation started to withdraw from the sector, over twenty years ago.
But that's how far S31 was ahead of the Federation. They have the
technology
what they used to lack was the force."

"Fascinating.", said Remae, sitting back in his chair. It wasn't often he
would get an insight into the dealings of Section 31.

"The base main function was research and development of new technologies.
It
was also used to move S31 operatives between Earth and the Raven's Nest
S31
main operations base. Now what I will tell you next is hard to hear
because
it directly involves us."

"Go ahead Ensign.", said the Admiral, all ears to the new information.

"According to the main database the mission on mars is twofold. There will
be another attack on Earth when that will happen, I do not know. If we
succeed the Federation will be able to show that we are again a force to
be
reckoned with. If we fail S31 will launch a defensive fleet and take
tactical command of earth and the Raven's Nest will move to earth. After
such a failure the people will welcome the S31 fleet with open arms, and
they will be open to operate with immunity."

The thought of Section 31 taking over Earth started to anger the Admiral,
their move would be perfect, a welcoming committee indeed.

"There is a full armory in that base. S31 wanted me to find that base. Now
I
asked you before if you wanted to know of my past because I know how much
black ink is in my file.  She took a seat before the Admiral do you wish
to
know the truth about me."

"I am all ears, Ensign.", said Remae, he made notes about the base and was
going to alert all departments to its existence. Security, Engineering,
Science, Tactical, Pilots, Medical, everyone needed to know.

"Let's start at the present and work our way back. As you know I am no
original ensign I was pulled back into service. Before this I had a life
and
I was happy a life I can no longer return to, at that time I was known as
Hatsune Miku and I sang. I watched as everything fell apart and I
performed
on stage in hope of allowing people of all races find peace though song.
For
twenty years this is the life I lived."

Remae got comfortable, he loved a good backstory.

"Before that I was a Federation commander known as Jessica Signos most of
her past is in my file and you probably have all the information about
her.
But what's not in that file is the reason I left the Federation."

She took a moment to steady herself and calm her nerves bringing up those
memories. "As my file says I have a genetic mutation that is exceptionally
rare. Due to this I age very slowly. Over twenty years ago I appeared even
more childlike than I do now. After my time on the Spectre,  Federation
intelligence pulled me in to infiltrate and destroy a child trafficking
ring
that was operated by Orion raiders. Some of the children were sold as
slaves
to work on less civilized planets, others were sold for the pleasures of
the
flesh." 

She took a moment to push painful memories from her minds.

"The infiltration was successful, and I spent the better part of a year
gaining intel waiting for the Federation to provide an extraction plan to
rescue myself and the children in the ring. As time passed, I bore witness
to unspeakable horrors. Then came the Federation withdraw and we were
forgotten, there was no extradition team no ship being sent to bring the
slave traders down."

She knew the importance to tell this story in its fullest. She pushed back
tears. "We planned our own escape. Myself with the oldest of the children,
mostly teenagers. The younger ones we tried to keep out of the coming
fight.
We were being moved as we often were to keep our location secret. Once on
the ship we put or plan into action. We were kept in a secure storage bay.
But hacking the system and disabling the guard was easy for me. They grew
complacent as time progressed. We armed ourselves as we made our way
through
the ship taking whatever weapons we could find. The slavers security
caught
up with us in Engineering near the secondary emergency escape pods. The
fight was intense. No person fights with more ferocity than someone who
has
nothing to lose. Those kids fought harder than any Federation security I
have ever seen. But we were few and it was only a matter of time before we
were overrun. The younger children were loaded on escape pods. It was then
the one of the other teens pushed me into the children and launched the
pod.
The last words he spoke was 'get them home.' Those words will always haunt
me."

"The fighting continued that I know how it progressed I can only guess.
But
those teens were able to damage something vital because shortly after we
launched the entire ship exploded in fire and death. Twenty teenagers died
to allow fifteen younger kids escape and destroy the slave ring. After
that
the survivors drifted in space for four days. With rations running low we
were finally picked up by a passing Federation reconnaissance ship that
was
already heading back to Earth."

"There was a year of recovery and debriefing. Counsellors meeting every
day.
Myself I simply shut down. I didn't care about life, the Federation, none
of
it mattered. They left us to die so they were dead to me. While on mission
I
pushed my emotions down, focused on the mission, on what needed to be
done.
Afterward there was no one only myself, and the thoughts of did I do
enough.
Why did continue to survive while those I cared about died. Let's just say
it was an unpleasant year. Finally, the pain became too much, and I left
the
Federation."

"I was chosen for the mission not only due to my mutation but for my
training.", She handed a PADD over to the Admiral, his security was high
enough to know the truth.

"I am a S31 agent I have been ever since they kidnapped me as a child. I
am
a weapon I've been experimented to create a superior soldier and sleeper
agent. If I didn't perform to standard I was tortured. I was forced to
kill
before I was seven, and during the civil war I committed horrible deeds
because that's what I was ordered to do. I was broken down to become
nothing
more than a weapon, and that's what I am to the Federation and that's how
they pushed me back. Treating to expose my past which would destroy my
future."

Tears filled her eyes but years of hard life though her how to control
herself there would be time for her to break down later.

Remae took the entire story of someone who had obviously been abused,
mistreated, used, and basically not treated humanely. 

"I appreciate the honesty of your past, Ensign - I hope, here, you can
find
a place to belong. I will do everything I can to help you.", he said, what
more could he say?

"As for Luma and the mission to Trill. I don't advise it and I don't think
we should be using her ship." 

"We simply don't know enough about Luma or her goals. On the mission to
Trill we are not stable enough here. If someone calls our bluff we will be
dire straits. However, as long as she stays out of my way I shall hers,
and
I will do whatever is needed to accomplish this mission." 

After all, that was her purpose in life.

"Understood Ensign, this is my decision and we're going to have to trust
her, so far, I've no reason not to. She's looking for a place to belong,
she's in pain and she's willing to put her own existence on the line.
that's
good enough for me.", said Remae before adding, "Besides, if we do find
ourselves in a bind, I know I have the crew to handle the situation.", he
said finishing the Luma conversation.

"To finish up, the intel base will be attended to, I will be assigning
crew
to help you with this project but for now, our focus is on Trill, so,
please
use all your resources to help us with this mission but consider me your
direct line of contact going forward.", he said standing up.

"Let's begin to trust each other?", he said extending his hand to the
Intel
Officer, "Dismissed", he said nodding at her.

(Reply None)
(Posted by Matthew Locke and Anthony Keen)

(Mars Facilities - Mess hall - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl and TAC Ensign Ravok Shara  - 16:24)

Jaton had had enough of dealing with the breakdowns in the Science Department for the day. And while the work he and the other officers were doing with Luma was absolutely fascinating, he was far too preoccupied with the escaped animals from the arboretum wreaking havoc to actually concentrate on that. At least the cats on base seemed to be helping. One had brought a dead squirrel into Jaton's office, a look of smug satisfaction on its face. He wasn't to glad about it, but was able to bring himself to dispose of it. He had then replicated a bowl of cat food from the replicator and a little bit of catnip, which he had remembered his host family's cat in Kayseri very much liking, set it down on the office floor gently, and left the cat to its own devices.

As he was walking, he was thinking about what to call the cat. ~Gunayu?~ he thought to himself. It was the name of a predator back home in the local dialect of his homeland. He smiled at the thought. "Gunayu it is."

As he entered the mess hall, he noticed a man out of uniform sitting on his own, hunched over a tray of something that wasn't very appetising looking. Jaton went over to the replicator and held his breath as he hoped for the best as he ordered some food. He then took the tray, looking slightly disappointed in it, and walked over to the man sitting on his own. "This seat taken?"

Ravok was seated in the mess hall. He was sampling some of the replicators Romulan selections. It had been a busy day for him. He had a plate of Lehe'jhme , a romulan plant fruit with another plate of something called Romulan mollusks. Ravok looked at the young spotted man who asked to sit.

" No not at all , " he said as he grabbed a napkin and wiped his mouth and hands. Still chewing the last but of food in his mouth.

Jaton put down his tray across from the man and began to tuck into the spiced stew that he'd ordered. "The replicators here have been such a disappointment here lately," he said. He sniffed at the spoonful of stew before putting it in his mouth. He chewed it a bit before swallowing it with a grimace on his face. "This is supposedly a Trill spiced stew, but somehow it came out as both too spicy and too bland. I don't even know how that works. How did yours turn out?"

Ravok laughed a little bit " Too spicy and too bland that's actually rather impressive .Well if you must know . It's horrible. I was actually about to spit it back on the plate until you walked up, Its too sweet. " Ravok said with a look of disgust.

"We Romulans prefer bitter foods with spice not sweets . Anyways my name is Ravok , well Ensign Ravok Shara.  But please call me Ravok." He said to the Trill man as he extended his hand for a handshake.

Jaton accepted the hand offered. "Jaton Alyl, working in sciences. Well, I say that but mostly we've been dealing with animals that have escaped from the arboretum recently."

" Jaton Alyl, the name sounds familiar. Either way it's a pleasure to meet you. I have noticed a few cats running around. One even had a squirrel. "

"Yep, that's true. Brought it to me in my office. I was not amused. But what can you do?"

~ maybe I should ask him is this the Dead man I heard people whispering about?~

" So you're a Trill, excited about going home ?"Ravok asked Jaton
 
Jaton looked down at the stew in front of him for a minute, and he sighed. He gathered his thoughts before proceeding. "On the one hand, I am. But it's been a long time since I've been home and I've lost quite a lot in the meantime."

" Hey, we all lose something along the way, As long as we dont lose our way is what matters most...Not my words, I Read it in book once. It made since to me when I read it and It still does. " Ravok said with a smile.

"I suppose you're right. And in a way going home may be cathartic. I've been told that I need to learn to say goodbye to my old life and embrace my new one."

" Don't take this the wrong way , but you are the first Trill I have ever met. Your kind, your race is so fascinating to me. Especially joined members of your race. Sorry if that's too personal " He said to Jaton.

Jaton smiled. "Not at all. You're the first Romulan I've met and I find your race just as fascinating." He extended his hand towards Ravok's as he said this.

Ravok extended his hand towards his to shake it as he touched Jatons hand " So it is true,  your hands are cold to the touch" Ravok smiled .

" Well now we can both cross an item off our bucket list." He said to Jaton.

All of a sudden Jaton felt something he hadn't felt in a long time. He felt a connection with this man. Someone who could help blot out the profound loneliness and isolation he'd been feeling. He decided to probe how deep this could go.

"Indeed they are. The blood vessels in our arms and legs are structured to help radiate excess heat away." He then leaned in and continued, sotto voce. "But I assure you the rest of me is very warm."

He raised an eyebrow at Jaton. Not wanting to assume anything. " I'm sure it is.  That's what I heard anyway. We Romulans have warm body temperatures as well." He said to him.

" So besides catching escaped animals what else do you do around here  ? If you dont mind me asking ." Ravok questioned

~ Did he just hit on me ?~ he thought to himself.

"Oh not too much so far," Jaton replied playfully. "But I'm sure the two of us could find something... fun... to do together."

Ravok tilted his head and looked at Jaton

" Look maybe I'm just being a little bit crazy. If I offend you please believe it is not my intent, but are you hitting on me? I mean no disrespect by asking I dont want to assume anything ."Ravok nervously questioned .

Jaton flashed a winning smile. "And what if I am?"

He looked at Jaton and gave an awkward smile " Uhh I'm not  into ...males" Ravok replied but gave a playful laugh and put his hands up

" If you are hitting on me I am flattered , very flattered. I mean I support your right.. I mean your choi... your lifestyle. Oh man I'm babbling " Ravok fumbled through his words as he put his hand on his own face in embarrassment.  His skin strting to turn green from the embarrassment.

" Look , It means alot to me that you would think of a guy like me in that way, but I am into women. I am not judging you at all and I mean at all . You are a handsome guy and I am sure any man who is into other men would be lucky to have you on their arm, or them to be on your arm. However I'm not that guy" Ravok said .

Jaton felt his face flush a deep red. He drew away slightly from Ravok. "Oh I'm so sorry," he sputtered. "I completely misread you. I apologise unreservedly."

" I'm the one who needs to apologize , not you.  I must of put off something for you to think that. It's all good man. " Ravok said with a smile.

" Your first time meeting a romulan and my first time meeting a trill and here we are apologizing to each other"he remarked to Jaton  

"Well only because I decided to make things rather awkward." Jaton said, laughing at himself. "I suppose it's just been so long since I've been with a man that I forgot how to read the signs. But I'm glad to hear you don't have a problem with it. Especially since we're headed to Trill where gender is certainly no boundary for taking a lover for most people."

Ravok smiled at him " I have a problem with who ever has a problem with that "

Jaton then extended his hand towards Ravok again. "Friends?"

He took Jaton's hand and shook it again " Friends" He replied with a nod of his head.

Ravok looked down at his large platter of Romulan Mollusks with disgust " Hopefully Trill has better food " he said with a laugh.

"I'm sure you'll be very impressed," Jaton said. "We're well known for our range of cuisine. I mean among other things like being a joined species," he added with a chuckle.

" I do have a question though , is it true what people say about you ? That you're..you know back from the dead ?" Ravok asked him .

Jaton sighed. "How did I know that this would come up? I see the rumour mill has long since exceeded my reach."

" Its ok if you dont want to talk about it, I shouldnt of asked. If it makes you feel any better ...I was almost dead about this time yesterday " Ravok said to him as he pointed to where he was stabbed .

"Well thank you for that. I don't know if I'm necessarily ready to talk about that just yet. What happened to you?"

" I had to get a blood transfusion from a dead guy, good thing there isnt much genetic diversity among the Romulan race. Most pure blooded Romulans share the same blood type " Ravok laughed to break the awkward situation that he had now created .

Jaton harrumphed once. "I suppose that's a good thing. Would you mind if we changed the subject though?"

Ravok nodded his head " Of coarse, have any plans during our mandatory down time ? Everyone is getting into something "

"I honestly haven't really thought about it yet. I kind of wish we had leave to go to Earth. I wouldn't mind taking a quick holiday to Turkey."

" I'm planning on relaxing as much as I can before we leave, well I hope to atleast. I have to get the tactical systems up to par on the mystique.  From what I understand it's a complete mess. " he said to Jaton with a laugh.

"I haven't taken a look at the tactical systems yet; the science teams have been preoccupied with Luma, who you remember from the meeting this morning. She seems amenable enough and I hope I get the chance to get to know her a little bit while we're on the way to Trill."

" She is definitely all alot of people are talking about. When we get to Trill I'm definitely going to need a tour guide. A few people are already planning going on the surface to explore.  I would feel more comfortable with a well informed Native by my side. Maybe even check out the local Trill entertainment " Ravok said with a smile.

Jaton smiled genuinely. "I'd be happy to. We'll just have to keep our eyes on the weather nets though, make sure you don't overheat. If I've got the stardates correct, we should be coming up on lahaina noon at home. So there may well be some great festivals going on. Lahaina noon in Tresh is one of the greatest holidays on Trill. It marks the beginning of summer for the southern hemisphere, and winter for the north. Well, as far as seasons on Trill go."

Ravok scratched the back of his head
" I want to go somewhere comfortable not too hot not too cold. I heard trill architecture is something to be marveled.  I really hope we can all leave the mystique and have some fun. " Ravok said.
~ Does he drink?~ He thought to himself .
" Maybe I could try some of the drinks on Trill , I have some romulan ale here I have been enjoying. Hopefully the trill drink better stuff than humans. Beer does nothing for me . To get drunk i have to drink like 20 pints. " he sid to Jaton laughing.
Ravok looked at his chronometer " Damn , I have get going soon. "

Jaton did the same, eyes widening. "Jekso'ke so do I. I'll talk to you later though. I've enjoyed getting to know you though." Jaton flashed Ravok one more smile and then took his tray towards the replicator receptacle in a hasty retreat.

(reply none)
(posted by Spencer and Robert)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 7
Stardate: 2444.06.07
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Facility - Admiral's Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell - 1015)
(Mars Facility - command center – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek & Pilot  Ensign jg Ravok Shara – 1021)
(Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4, Tactical Ensign Taya, 1120)
(Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4 - aASEC, Ens(jg) Carson Peters - 1123) 
(Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4, Tactical Ensign jg Tesha, 1125)
(Mars Facility - Willliams-Verin Family Quarters - E/SYO Ensign Boone Foster - 1912)
(Mars, Civilian City, Crazy Cale’s Crafty Emporium of Fun, Tactical Ensign Taya, 2013)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Facility - Admiral's Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell - 1015)

Relationships are never easy in Starfleet and Remae had heard the same
tales
over and over, usually, he wouldn't be involved but, when brought to his
attention, he had to determine the good of the crew against the
repercussions of any relationships.

"Was there anything else? I've got to go talk to Ensign Ravok.", she said,
with a new fire in her eyes. If Ravok had any sense, he'd be beaming to
somewhere else, anywhere but it looked like even hiding from Keira wasn't
going to do him any good this time.

Remae quickly glanced at the reflection of his pips, yep, still there
however, personal advice was off the record and off the book. he was happy
to give it but, he could sense the embarrassment, lack of communication
and
trust issues these two were experiencing needed time to sort. They had
time
before the mission so now was as a good as time as ever.

"Go.", he said to the Ensign and she left promising not to break anything.
The doors shut and Remae said to himself.

"Just nothing physical.", he said shaking his head before returning to
work.

(Reply from Any)
(Posted by Anthony Keen)

(Mars Facility - command center – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek & Pilot  Ensign jg Ravok Shara – 1021)

Ravok patiently waited in the command center for Ensign Merek.  He knew she was pissed he could see it on her face. She had the all too famous bitch face . ~ why do they call it that? how does a humanoid make their face resemble a female dog? It makes no sense she doesn't look like a dog….humans and their phrases ~ he thought to himself.

Suddenly the door to the admirals office opened and out walked Ensign Merek. 

Keira’s eyes narrowed, the look she gave him could have bored through neutronium.

" Ensign Merek, please understand what I did, I did for your direct benefit." Ravok said to her.

“You go behind my back and it’s supposed to benefit me? Do you know how bad it looks, how bad it makes me look…” she began. Their heated discussion was getting looks from passers-by. She began to move away from the command suite attempting to diffuse attention drawn to them.

Ravok kept walking with her as they continued away from the command center. Neither one wanted to make a scene .

" I didn't go behind your back. That's not who I am and that is not what I do. I'm not like the rest of us" he replied to her obviously referring to other Romulans.

She stayed silent, and allowed him to take as much rope as he wanted, he could use it to climb out of the hole he dug, or hang himself with it. ~Choose your words carefully,~ she thought.

Ravok stopped walking and touched her arm slightly to get her to stop. 

" Listen Keira" he said, disregarding her rank. She noticed, but this wasn’t about rank.

" I made no mention of your intentions...I only spoke of mine. I should have told you but I wanted to save myself the embarrassment of assuming your intentions as well. I dont assume things.  That's a human quality. I make educated guesses at best, but I do not assume.." he said as he paused. " I told the Admiral we went on a date. I told the Admiral that I wanted to pursue something with you. Last night wasn't just a good meal and dancing. You aren't just some dance partner to me. Last night meant more to me than I could ever tell you...and so do you" he said as he looked away…" Keira I didn't want you to face any punishment for my desires. Ensign Williams faced a punishment….” 

~I didn’t know that…~ Keira thought.

“.... A punishment I absolutely don't agree with. He is the reason we are all alive. Yet he was forced to sort the admiral’s correspondences and clean latrines. I didn't want that for you , so I told the admiral of my intent. To spare you of any professional risk." 

Kiera broke her silence. “My risk is mine to take, not yours. You should have talked to me first. Find out what this is, then if we both are on the same shield nutation, we go to the Admiral together. Together. Then you don’t have to make any guesses educated or otherwise.”

~ She’s being difficult. Has to be her human side~ he thought to himself.

" So you no longer wish to continue whatever this is ?" He asked her, showing no emotion. 

~If I wasn’t into continuing this, you would never get to use that arm again. Ever. I don’t care what kind of surgeon Dr. Bracken is.~ “Do you think that if I wasn’t still willing to give us a chance that we would be talking right now?” She said her tone had at some point softened.

" No I suppose not . I guess I have to learn more about you and how you react to situations." He replied 

“Yes, you do have a lot to learn about me, and it appears I have a lot to learn about the way you think.” she admitted.

" Perhaps we can talk about this over dinner . It was a misunderstanding. " Ravok suggested to Keira 

“Not today. Maybe in a couple days? I’ll need time to cool off.” she said.

~ Yep, you ruin everything. Great job~Ravok thought.

He looked at the ground then back up to her," I understand,  Goodbye Ensign Merek." 

He said to her and walked away. Shutting out his emotion entirely. 

As he stormed off she wanted to go after him and beat it into his thick Romulan skull, but decided against it. ~No, he needs time to cool off too.~ she reasoned. They were both very passionate and that could either be really, really good, or warp core explosion bad. There was no inbetween. He was right, they did need to talk, but when cooler heads would prevail, which was not now.

(reply none)
(posted by Robert and Todd)
(Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4, Tactical Ensign Taya, 1120)

While Taya's aid, Kirby, was working on the program to gather resumes of
security personnel most qualified to train exclusively as tactical, she
had gone back to an investigation she was doing. When she had the
information, she uploaded it onto a PADD and went to see Carson in his
office.

"Hello again," said Taya. "I have something you need to see." She
activated the PADD.

"As you know, Foxglove, the intelligence officer, has made multiple
hiking...." Taya made an air quote with her free hand, something she
learned on Earth. "....trips to the nearby ridge. With this facility
needing so much work, it made me wonder why. Because of the pirate
attack, the spy, the information leaks, and everything else that's been
happening, and because Admiral Remae has ordered lockdown protocols,
we've intensified sensor sweeps of the immediate surface around the base."

Taya moved around Carson's desk and stood next to him, showing him the PADD.

"As you can see, there's a very slight energy spike in the ridge.
There." She pointed to the spot. "I almost missed it. In fact, the only
reason I noticed it at all, was because I was searching for something."

She stopped for a moment to allow Carson a chance to look at the scan
results.

"I can think of several possible explanations, but since it's
intelligence, and since Foxglove was 'hiking' in the same area for
several days, I'd say the most reasonable explanation is, there's some
sort of hidden facility out there. I'm also surmising the only reason we
were able to detect an energy signature, was it's as much in disrepair
as the base here."

Taya left the PADD with Carson and moved back to the opposite side of
his desk.

"What do you think?" said Taya.

(reply Peters)
(posted by Rob B.)

(Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4 - aASEC, Ens(jg) Carson Peters - 1123)  

"Hello again," said Taya. "I have something you need to see."

Carson looked up from the desk that he felt like he never left, to see the Andorian walking towards him with a padd in her hand. He smiled to her and let her continue talking,

"As you know, Foxglove, the intelligence officer, has made multiple hiking...." Taya made an air quote with her free hand, "....trips to the nearby ridge. With this facility needing so much work, it made me wonder why. Because of the pirate attack, the spy, the information leaks, and everything else that's been happening, and because Admiral Remae has ordered lockdown protocols, we've intensified sensor sweeps of the immediate surface around the base." 

Taya moved around Carson's desk and stood next to him, showing him the PADD. "As you can see, there's a very slight energy spike in the ridge. There." She pointed to the spot. "I almost missed it. In fact, the only reason I noticed it at all, was because I was searching for something." 

Carson rubbed the temples of his head with his hands, ~Never simple with Intelligence, is it?~ he thought to himself.

"I can think of several possible explanations, but since it's intelligence, and since Foxglove was 'hiking' in the same area for several days, I'd say the most reasonable explanation is, there's some sort of hidden facility out there. I'm also surmising the only reason we were able to detect an energy signature, was it's as much in disrepair as the base here." 

Taya left the PADD with Carson and moved back to the opposite side of his desk. 

"What do you think?" said Taya.

Carson rubbed his eye's once more, "I agree. In all honesty, I've been waiting for this since I offered Foxglove officers in the Security Complex to run Intelligence from." he said with a sigh, "It follows that there would be an old STF base here somewhere, they were everywhere back in the old days. The question is, will she tell the Admiral about it?"

(Reply Taya)

"I'm going to give them the chance to give it up themselves." he said as he put the padd down on the desk, "If neither of them bring this to the Admiral, then.." he shrugged, "it's their own grave they're digging. The longer is goes unspoken, the more concerned we need to be."

(Reply Taya)

"Good work, Taya. I'll have Ensign Flagg put a team together and watch the area. Gather as much intel.." Carson chuckled a little, "I'm sorry, spying on the spies. It's just a little funny." he said smiling, "Anwyay, have her gather as much Intel as she can on what's there."

(Reply Taya)

"I'm having Flagg stay behind on Mars to keep things ticking over whilst we go galavanting off to Trill." Carson said, "Since we don't know how long this will go on, it gives me time to put it all together."

(Reply Taya)
(Posted by Jono Bradley)

(Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4, Tactical Ensign jg Tesha, 1125)

Carson said, "It follows that there would be an old SFI base here somewhere. 
They were everywhere back in the old days. The question is, will she tell 
the admiral about it?"

"I would say no," said Taya. "She went off in secret to find it, without 
telling anyone or asking for help. It's reasonable to assume Rozen knows 
about it, too."

Carson went on to say he would give the intelligence department the chance 
to tell Admiral Remae about their secret base. He followed that by saying he 
was going to leave Ensign Flagg in charge on Mars during the trip to Trill.

"Since we don't know how long this will go on," said Carson, "it gives me 
time to put it all together."

Taya nodded. "Just let me know what you want me to do."

(reply Peters iyw)
(posted by Rob B.)

(Mars Facility - Willliams-Verin Family Quarters - E/SYO Ensign Boone Foster - 1912)

"So what's in the jar?"

The question threw Boone off a little. Even though he had been in the Academy for 4 years he didn't always remember that something normal to him wasn't always normal to his new colleagues. 

"Moonshine, one might call it." Boone paused. "It's alcohol!" 

"Well it should go well with what we already have, beer, potato skins, some squirrel and bacon meat thing, we also have wings in the following flavors." Trip then proceeded to point them out as he said there names, "Buffalo, Lemon Pepper, Garlic Parmesan, Barbecue, Atomic Hot, Teriyaki, and Honey Mustard. They have bones in them so be careful."

"Looks tasty." Boone's mouth watered with the smell of the many flavors. He took one of the Barbecue wings. 

"You're the guy from Echo Earth right? Do you guys have baseball over there?" Trip asked. 

"I'm somewhat aware of the game, but many on Echo Earth would not. Some of the elders might remember the sport. It's not a pastime that survived the move to Echo Earth." 

At that time someone yelled out, "Homerun!"

"Must be a good thing!?" Boone tore the rest of the meat off of the wing with his teeth. "These are great." He picked up an Atomic Hot wing. 

(reply Williams, Ravok, any)
(posted by Calvin Capps)

(Mars, Civilian City, Crazy Cale’s Crafty Emporium of Fun, Tactical
Ensign Taya, 2013)

Taking some much-needed free time away from her duties on the Mars base,
Taya had gone into the nearby civilian city. Other Starfleet personnel
had gone there and she had heard stories about some of the more
questionable establishments, so she figured she should go and see for
herself.

The major part of the city was clean and respectable. It seemed the
shadier places were lumped together. She supposed, as long as those
places kept to themselves, the rest of the city would leave them alone.
Of course, Taya was certain there was more to it than that, but for now,
that didn't matter to her. She was most concerned about meeting someone
in particular.

Taya was wearing an orange, short-sleeved shirt, black slacks, and black
ankle boots. She had an old-style cricket phaser in her back pocket.
Stepping inside Crazy Cale’s Crafty Emporium of Fun, the proprietor
standing behind a counter, a Ferengi named Rook, gave her a surprised look.

"Well, who do we have here?"

"I'm sure you know who I am," said Taya. "You probably already knew I
was in the city."

"Not that I'm upset at meeting the lovely Taya," said Rook, "but I fear
you're giving me too much credit."

"In that case, you're not the person to see." Taya started to walk out.

"Wait! Wait! I was just being modest. Please, tell me what you need."

Taya chuckled. "Mm hm."

"As a first time customer, I'll give you a 3% discount."

Taya rolled her eyes. "Five." She knew the amount didn't matter, but she
needed to show Rook she wouldn't just accept anything.

"Four," said Rook.

"Five or I leave."

"You drive a hard bargain. Five it is." Rook smiled, appearing to be
pleased with himself.

Taya placed a PADD on the counter. "Can you get this?"

Rook picked up the PADD and read it. Lowering it, he looked at her, a
puzzled expression on his face. "Something like this would be very
difficult to find, if it exists at all."

"If it’s something you want, we can make it happen. That's your slogan.
I want it, now you make it happen."

"It will take time and be expensive," said Rook. "Do you have
gold-pressed latinum?"

"No. How about Federation credits?"

Rook scoffed. "Sorry, but those aren't in demand right now. Do you have
anything else of value?"

"I have Andorian shelnaks."

"Ah! Now those I can take. Your people are making quite an impression in
the absence of Federation influence."

"What sort of an impression." Taya's curiosity was piqued, her antennae
moving in slow circles.

"I'm a businessman, not a charity."

"Put it on my bill."

"I've been told that Andorian ships have been visiting worlds that were
once part of the Federation. Since I'm here on Mars, I haven't been able
to confirm that, but this is what my sources are telling me. When you
get back from Trill, you can fill me in on what's happening out there.
I'll make it worth your while."

Taya frowned. "Who told you about Trill?"

"People talk." Rook pointed at one of his ears. "I listen. Seventh rule
of acquisition. Besides, everyone knows about the Trill ship that came
here."

That made sense. Taya wanted to know more about what her people were
doing, but she would need to wait until they left on the Mystique.

"I don't know how long I'll be gone, but I'm expecting my merchandise
when I get back, and you better not gouge me on the price."

"Like I said, it's going to be hard to find one, but I'll do whatever I
can. Good customers are to be treasured. He smiled.

"Which rule is that?" said Taya.

"Fifty-seven."

"All right. If you fill my order before we leave for Trill, let me
know," said Taya. "I just might give you a bonus."

Rook bowed his head. "The night is young. Can I inter..."

"No." Taya interrupted. "My business is done here." Grabbing her PADD,
Taya headed out. The night was indeed young.

(reply none)
(posted by Rob B.)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 9
Stardate: 2444.06.09
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Facility - Section C room 103– Shara family quarters –  Pilot Ensign jg Ravok Shara – 1009)
(Mars Base, Holosuites, Counselor Ensign jg Ariel Trei, Tactical Ensign jg Taya, 1502)
(Mars Facilities - Counselling office - Science Officer Jaton Alyl- 1510)
(Mars Facilities - Counselor's Personal Office - AACSO Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin  - 1712)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Facility - Section C room 103– Shara family quarters –  Pilot Ensign jg Ravok Shara – 1009)

Ravok sat on the couch in his quarters. He was looking through some of the reports on the tactical modifications and upgrades that were being completed on the mystique. 

=/\= Message from Commander Sinclair =/\= the computer said. 

" On screen " Ravok replied with a smile.

On the screen appeared Commander Sinclair from the academy. Sinclair had told Ravok he would catch up with him in few days when he left earth on transport to mars.

=/\= Ensign Ravok , look at you . Hows mars treating you Champ?=/\=  Sinclair said over the comm channel.

" I'm good sir. Just trying to do my best and serve as good as I can Sir"  Ravok replied .

Sinclair sighed a bit =/\= Look son, I heard about your recent loss. I am sorry that you are having to experience this dark moment in what should be a bright time. How are you holding up?=/\= Sinclair asked 

He looked at the screen and looked down at his hands briefly then back up to the screen 'I'm managing Sir I really am.  I'm just trying to stay busy. Made some friends. Got stabbed on a mission to the kuiper belt , you know usual stuff in the life of an officer "  he said with a slight chuckle. 

Sinclair shook his head =/\= So that was you ? You crazy Romulan bastard. I knew I should of put it together when reports came in that former cadet of mine almost died on a mission. You would be that one.You actually remind me of another Romulan cadet I had , well half Romulan. Pretty blonde girl with the worst attitude I had ever seen...one hell of a pilot though. Had she would of followed the rules she would of been the best pilot in my program. I know you romulans like to stick together but watch out for that one.=/\= 

Ravok looked at him with smirk " You mean Ensign Merek? " he asked Commander Sinclair. 

Sinclair's eyes widened at the mention of her name =/\= I'm not at liberty to say Ensign. That's confidential , but I will say that if they would of remained in the program your sorry ass wouldn't of had a spot on my squadron=/\= Sinclair said with a laugh. 

Ravok laughed with him . " You know sir, I have actually been considering turning in my wings. I am not sure if I want to fly anymore. I want to try for maybe more of tactical or a operations role... "  Sinclair started speaking and cut Ravok off

=/\= Now you listen to me Ensign. I pulled every string I had to get you your assignment of choice. I gave my professional and personal recommendation to Admiral Ramae. Some higher ups wanted you far off and away on some damned deep space station in the beta quadrant directing shuttle traffic and pushing PADDs I put my reputation on the line for you.=/\= Sinclair stated in a slightly harsh tone as he pointed his finger at the screen.

    Ravok looked at him and nodded his head

" Yes you did Sir and I am thankful for that, but this is my career not yours. It's my decision not yours. I'm the Admirals concern and if I request a transfer it goes through him not you...Sir" Ravok said back matching the Commanders tone of voice.

Sinclair balled his fist up at the screen =/\= You think just because you flew in one engagement. You can walk into another role like it's no problem?  I'm telling you this now there are alot of eyes on you. Not just within the federation. You are the first full Romulan to graduate and you did so in the top of the entire graduating class.  The validity of your grades and scores came into question . There was alot of people who wanted you to fail. To leave the academy but you proved everyone wrong….Look kid I'm saying to much, but you know you had to fight tooth and nail to get where you are.  Hell I fought along side you. You have something special Ensign. You have a tremendous opportunity in front of you ...Don't throw it away=/\= Sinclair said in a less aggressive tone .

Ravok nodded his head in agreement " Your right Sir. I have a tremendous opportunity. But I have to get going. I have work to do and I have to get back to it, we head for Trill in a few days." He said to him.

Sinclair nodded =/\= Take care Ensign=/\=  He said as the transmission was terminated.

~ Hes right you know. You fought every day at the academy to prove yourself. Don't stop now ~

( reply none)
( posted by Davis)

(Mars Base, Holosuites, Counselor Ensign jg Ariel Trei, Tactical Ensign jg Taya, 1502)

Taya was on her rounds when she received a comm call.

=^=Counselor Ariel Trei to the security department. Report to holosuite one for evaluations. Ensign Ravok will be evaluated by another counselor. Trei out.=^=

Evaluations? What was that about? Since Taya was near the holosuite area, she decided to see. Arriving, she entered suite one and looked
around.

The program running was a rural setting, with trees and flowers. A pleasant aroma filled the air. A couch was in the midst of them. Standing next to it, was Ariel Trei.

"Hello. I'm Ensign T'ay'ia sh'Mila'aa, but you can call me Taya. How can I help you?"

"Have a seat, Taya. Order a drink from the replicator. This is a psych evaluation. We are going to talk for a bit and I will score the responses you give me to various questions to determine if you are mentally and emotionally sound. Let's begin." Ariel produced a box and placed it on the ground before the couch.

"You are to open the box at the end of the questions. The environment you are in right now is my homeworld Betazed. First, tell me about yourself."

Taya studied Trei before responding, her antennae moving in small circles.

"Counselor, when I heard your comm call, I wasn't sure what you wanted," said Taya. "I came here out of curiosity and because I was just around the corner. I also wanted to meet you, because my mother, Tesha and your father, Detron, served on the Hades together. As far as an evaluation.... I have more important duties right now." She turned to
leave.

"Computer, activate all safety protocols and block the exit. I am also interested in talking to you about our parents' time working together on the Hades, but I have an evaluation to do. Sit if you wish. It shouldn't last that long."

Ariel walked over to the couch. If Taya wants this to be hostile, two can play that game.

Taya stopped, her head bowed, her antennae leaning forward. Taking a deep breath, she let it out slowly and turned to face the counselor.

"You do realize, as security and tactical, I have authorization codes that can override anything you can do, right? I'm also certain you wouldn't want me to arrest you for kidnapping a Starfleet officer." Taya was feeling anger, but she was suppressing it, for now.

Ariel felt the anger coming from Taya. She did what she had to do for running the evaluation. Taya was leaving her no choice but to report her to the admiral for being uncooperative and hostile. Before she responded to Taya, she made notes on her report to the admiral.

"If you wish to continue to resist being evaluated, I will have to report to the admiral that you obstructed my effort in conducting the evaluation. My report to the admiral will state that you are noncompliant. It is on you how you deal with the consequences of that. Computer, clear the exit."

Taya wasn't sure what to think about Trei. She was half Klingon, and they were both from warrior cultures. so maybe Trei was intentionally trying to provoke her. If not, Trei had a very unique method of interacting with people.

"Let me ask you something, Counselor. My people left the Federation twenty-four years ago, before you and I were born. In your time at Starfleet Medical, can you honestly say you took a course on Andorian psychology? How can you be qualified to properly evaluate me?"

Ariel was getting irritated with the Andorian. She decided to try a different tactic.

"It may be true that I am not medically qualified to evaluate you, but I am ordered to do so by the admiral. If you comply or not, is up to you. I can ask very general questions on how you view love, death, and other things, and amend my report that you complied, or add to the report of your resistance. Which choice would you think is the most favorable?"

The first thing that went through Taya's mind, was to hit Trei with her stun baton. As satisfying as that would be, she'd be in a lot of trouble for doing so. After pushing that out of her mind, she considered the admiral's order. Taya could resist for awhile, but eventually, she'd have no choice. Better to play the game and get this nonsense finished.

"All right, Counselor, ask your very general questions."

"Let's start with, what are your views of life and death?"

Taya sighed. "Life is good. Death is bad."

Ariel thought to herself that this woman has some serious emotional issues that can be addressed later, but now she has to get this evaluation over with.

"What are your experiences with joy and sadness?"

"Counselor, life has many ups and downs. How am I supposed to detail to you every example in my life?"

It was clear to her the Taya had a giant problem with authority. She thought Taya will get into a serious confrontation that didn't need to be and it will be Taya's need to right that will be the cause of it. She hoped for Taya's sake that it doesn't end fatally.

"Okay. Last question. How are you with confrontation and authority?"

"My family has served in the Andorian Imperial Guard for several generations, and my mother was in Starfleet," said Taya. "I am comfortable with both." She was glad this was the last question.

Ariel amended her report to the admiral and made a note on her PADD to keep an eye on Taya. She sent the report with the amended note and stating personal opinion that Taya has a problem with being told what to do. She turned to Taya.

"We are finished here. You are dismissed."

Taya scoffed at being dismissed, though she had to admit to herself the session wasn't so bad. Glad that it was over, she nodded to Trei and left the holosuite.

(reply none)
(posted by Edward & Rob B.)

(Mars Facilities - Counselling office - Science Officer Jaton Alyl- 1510)

"Take a seat, Ensign. This won't take too long."

Jaton nodded politely before sitting in the chair across from the counsellor. He casually crossed his legs and took up an informal posture.

Smiling softly, Erin put her PADD down on the desk and leant forward on her desk,

"I'm sure everyone knows by now that the Admiral has asked the counselling team here to conduct mandatory crew evaluations before the mission."

"So I've heard," Jaton said a little nervously. He had been dreading this.

"I will admit something, I don't like doing them but I looked forward to speaking with you."

"Oh? About what exactly?"

~Here it comes,~ he thought to himself. ~And there goes my chance at resurrecting my career.~

"I've never been to your homeworld. I've heard wonderful things about it."

Jaton sighed audibly. He'd dodged that bullet for now. But how long until it came back again. "Yes, it's a beautiful planet. A lush paradise to be sure."

"And how do you feel heading back there now, with this mission. It must be kind of a double edged sword for you."

"I've lost so much since I was last there so I have no idea how it will go. I'm excited but at the same time terrified to be going back. It'll be good to see home again but I have no clue how I'll be received by those I care about."

"Well, I suppose so, you get to go home but there's a catch isn't there? we are all going with you. It's a big mission. Anything concerning you about it?"

"About the mission itself? I don't think so," he said after a moment's contemplation. "I'm sure the fact that we're being accompanied by a senior Trill diplomat bodes well for us."

(reply Cortez, any)
(posted by Spencer)

(Mars Facilities - Counselor's Personal Office - AACSO Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin  - 1712)

"Take a seat."

Sy took the seat offered, huffing slightly. She wanted this over with. She knew that both her and her twin needed counseling but she was not sure that Erin Cortes was the right person to do it. 

"Listen, I get it. No-one likes crew evaluations, least of all me. I hate having to get people to come and talk when they are busy and don't want to be here."

Sy spoke neutrally, "You are right, I do not want to be here." 

"I don't want to cause any delays to the important work I know you are doing here. I also don't want this to be any longer than it needs to be."

"I am sure that Luma of the Lenai will appreciate that. She was not pleased that I was called away from doing her bidding. The planting of the arboretum seems to be as important to her as the fixing of the sensor array that Sekal is working on. The Mystique is the Lenai's home, her body if you will." Sy tried to explain to the counselor. "Have you met Luma'lenai?"

Sienna looked a lot like her twin, just more Betazoid than Trip. She didn't look a lot like Billy.

"Ensign, I'll be as brief as I can. Just a few quick questions then you can be on your way and i'll be out of your hair, okay?"

"Well, lets knock it out then. And maybe we can find a better ground after it's over." Sy picked up the edge of Erin's thought and winced visibly, "I'm sorry, I'm not a trained telepath, but my telepathy has been growing since interacting with Luma."

"Thank you. Tell me, what exactly is it you do here?"

"I am a botanist primarily, but I've been promoted to the assistant chief science officer, on an equal ground with Sekal. I tend to the life sciences and botany, and he tends to the harder sciences. Sekal is more into research, and I am dealing with the more immediate problems. Like the loose animals on base, and helping with the repairs on the environmental systems. I also have taken over the day to day paperwork. Aboard the Mystique, I've been helping with setting up the science labs, setting up the crew rotation and dealing with the arboretum. And whatever Luma wants me to do. Not many understand what she is, and I'm positive that I don't understand her fully, but I've been assisting with the inevitable conflicts between something as different from us and the ensigns who are repairing the Mystique." She took a deep breath.

"And you like your role, your job so to speak? you're happy?"

Sy blinked, "Yes. I'm very happy with my role, my job. I'm glad that my twin and I are based at the same station. We've never been apart and ..." She shrugged. "I will tell you this Counselor, when things settle, I would like to get some counseling when things are settled. When my twin was away, I had issues sleeping. I had to go visit a friend in order to sleep. That isn't usual and it is something that will need to be addressed. I do not believe that it affects myability to do my job."

She ran a hand through her hair, "You have seen my medical records, so you know that I had a shakey start here due to the blood incompatibility of my betazoid and human heritages.  I have to have the medications adjusted on a weekly basis and I got overwhelmed and forgot to do so. I learned a lesson about taking care of myself." She leaned back, knowing that she was giving Cortes ammunition to use against her.

"As for what you are doing with my cousin...please don't hurt him. That's all I ask. He's a good guy and he always gets the short end of the stick with women." Sy sighed again. She was tired. And she had a lot of work to finish before the shift was over. "If don't mind, can I replicate a sandwich and some tea? I didn't realize I was hungry until I sat down. Maybe that's why I'm so on edge." ~That and you are a counselor who can get me grounded from my first foray into space and I don't trust you, nor have you done anything to earn my trust.~

(reply Cortes)
(pb Melinda)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 10
Stardate: 2444.06.10
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Facilities - Counsellor's Office – Medical Officer – Ensign JG Dural Methor DrPH – 1040)
(Mars Facility - ACMOs Office - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken and MO Ens (jg) Kasion Poldan - 1405)
(Mars Facilities-   Flight Squadron Executive Officer’s Office - Pilot – Ensign JG – Ire Williams – 1500)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

(Mars Facilities - Counsellor's Office – Medical Officer – Ensign JG Dural Methor DrPH – 1040)

“As a medical officer. I was assigned here to set up a research station for 
infectious diseases here on Mars. It’s proving…. slower going than I 
initially suspected. From the way Medical Command had described it seemed 
“move in ready”. There were large gaps in the safety protocols that Dr. 
Bracken helped me ferret out. Coordinating construction of various 
forcefields, hot zones, retrofitting. I also don’t see bringing any of those 
with me on the mission. Firstly it would be foolhardy to bring those through 
two sectors potentially exposing dozens of worlds with sentient life and 
opening these organisms to stealing from nefarious parties. I suppose my 
Public Health degree will come in handy when young people do what they do 
when they encounter a culture filled with beautiful people and curiosity 
demands they determine if the spots go everywhere.”

 Fighting back a laugh, Erin smiled widely,

“That’s a sense of humour you have there. I think we are nearly done here. 
Just remember that the counselling team are here if you need us. We don’t 
tend to have traditional office hours. We help when the need arises, 
although i should warn you that i don’t often look my best at 4am when 
called out of my comfy bed.”

(Reply Dural)
(Posted by Jackie)

(Mars Facility - ACMOs Office - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken and MO Ens (jg) Kasion Poldan - 1405)

Ailynn watched the last of her clinic appointments leave. She sighed, utterly utterly fed up. 

~A rash.~ She thought, bitterly. ~All those years at Medical School for a rash. Wasn’t even a particularly gruesome rash in an interesting place either.~

She stood up, and made her way over to the replicator, “Coff...water, cold.” Her drink appeared, and picking up the cold glass, condensation already, and took a sip as she sat back down. Seconds later, her door chime rang again. “Enter.”

She looked up to see Ashlyn enter the room, her face a picture of professionalism, but since they had reconnected, she knew that a big heart and quite a sense of humour hid under that exterior. “Ash. What’s up? What can I do you for”

Ashlyn smiled, “Not me Doc. However I have something for you. Something from the local hospital that I’d like you to see, please give it serious consideration.”

“Ash you’re irritating me, show me what it is.”

“Lynn, you don’t change. Here.” She handed a small memory chip over, which Ailynn plugged into her terminal as she waved Ash to sit down.

“Its a…”

“Display. Thank you Ash, I can see what it is....” the small holoemmiter on her desk  lit up, displaying an image of a scan.”

“Cranium and cervical vertabrae, judging by size of bones, and fusing of cranial sutures, presence of secondary ossification center at the apex of the odontoid process; patient is a child about...6 years old? What did I win?”

Ash sighed. “You win the chance to look closer at the scan.”

Lynn lifted her hands up, and manipulated the image, zooming in on each facet of the neck bones. Her eyes, squinting slightly, a tiny smile at the corner of each eye.

“Oh dear...Now that...is nasty.”

“You can see it?”

Ailynn nodded. “Metal shrapnel, deep in the joint of C4/C5. Probably ruptured the disc, associated damage to foreamen processes, that however, is not the problem. I’m guessing that the patient is utterly immobilised.”

“In the local hospital, yes. But they won’t operate.”

Ailynn nodded. “I can’t blame them exactly, but you’re here to ask me to?”

“Ailynn, the local docs are decent, honest people; but they don’t have a tenth of your skill or that of your team.”

“Alright, don’t overegg the pudding.” She tapped her commbadge. “Bracken to Poldan, report immediately to my Office please.”

~please don’t~ Kaz mind already going to the thought of him getting into trouble he had honestly been on his best behavior keeping out of the way. “On my way.” He replies before closing his eyes for a second focusing his thought to be positive. 

Minutes later, Kaz entered. “Ah Kaz. You remember Ashlyn. Base Logistics and Civilian Liaison. Tell me, what do you make of the scan?”

“Hard to forget such a beautiful face.” Kaz said with a small wink he wasn’t actually trying to flirt but Ashlyn really was a beauty and Kaz couldn’t help but notice . 

Kaz looked at the scan “that is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. It's perfectly between C4 and 5. Oh man how did they get that out?” Kaz said as he studied the scan trying to formulate what he plan would have been. 

Ailynn looked at Ash, and winked. “They didn’t. Wouldn’t do it.”

“Huh what do you mean they didn’t?” Kaz looked at both of the women “ bunch of chickens!” Kaz hated doctors that deemed things too risky without good evidence. 

“I mean it wouldn’t be easy, but it’s doing more damage there. Listen it’s a child so the tools and field will be super small to work with but it’s not impossible.” Kaz was turning the image over and over as he rambled on in an unapproving tone. “Just going to let a child suffer what creeps.” Kaz was now talking to himself wanting to give those doctors a piece of his mind and he very well just might. 

“Ash. Is the child completely immobile? I mean...literally, bolted to a bed, can’t move immobile?”

Ashlyn nodded. “I saw the boy. Met the parents too. Boy’s mum was catatonic with worry. Dad was...I dunno, filled with guilt. Anyway seems they were disposing of some rubbish, pressurised cannister happened to be in there…”

“I see. Kaz? Thoughts? We have less than no room for error.”

“We go below it making our cut to the C7 that is bigger than I’d normally go but it’s already such a small field and we will need the visibility. The trick is going to be pulling it out at the exact angle it went in so we don’t shred the spine or nerves.” Kaz pointed as he talked showing what he was thinking.

“Lynn one wrong move and it’s over you know that rights? We are looking at 20% tops at pulling this off.” Kaz looked up he was prepaid to do this but the success rate was of this was very low. 

Ailynn spoke to Ash. “He’s right, our chances are not good. I’m going to need to speak to the parents, the hospital, and the Admiral.”

She looked at the scan again, zooming into the image, squinting to see the minutest details. “Pin and place C4 and C5 on a screw, we can then use a micro clamp between the vertabrae to hold the shrapnel in place while we increase the vertebral gap. He’s only 6 so everything is really nice and stretchy.”

“That’s a plan assuming nothing has shifted from the time of this scan, and the time we get in there. “Remove it then the repair looking at what 6 to 10 hours. With his size and weight. Body stress from the injury. You know the only way we are getting privileges is if the parents request his care be transferred. We can’t move him.” 

“There’s two ways of doing that, and we can do both. Ash can work her charms with the family, and I’ll go and annoy the Doctor. I’ll irritate him so much that he’ll demand that we do it. I’d rather the op was done here, but unless we can transport him, it’s not worth the risk.”

She looked at Kaz. “We decided then?”

“Since I saw the scan.” Kaz said 

Ailynn smiled briefly. “Kaz. Look, I have to say this. We’re going into something that we both know that we can do, but is incredibly dangerous, but both of us need to absolutely, and unquestionably have each others trust. I’m going to be blunt, Do I have that? Because you have my complete, undiluted trust, I’ve known you a long time, our mothers were...are best friends.”

“We’re family Lynn you piss me off almost as much as Arvos but at the end of the day I’d give my life for you. Good enough?” Kaz nudged Lynn with his shoulder sticking the tip of his tongue out at her. 

She nodded, and winked, nudging him back. “Good enough.” She turned to Ash. “Speak to the parents, and put me in contact with the Doctor in the hospital. We’re in.”

“Seriously?” Ashlyn’s face lit up. “You two...this will mean a lot to the family. I’ll go and…”

Ailynn traded a smile with Kasion as Ash ledt the doors closing behind her. ~be careful what you wish for~

(Reply none)
(Posted by Mark and Rich)

(Mars Facilities-   Flight Squadron Executive Officer’s Office - Pilot – Ensign JG – Ire Williams – 1500)

 

The door whooshed open and Ire stepped into Trips office.

 

“Hallo Trip do you have a moment or is this a bad time?”

 

(Reply Trip)

 

He placed the three PADDs that he had brought with him on to the Trips desk.

 

“Here are the results from medical, science and engineering that you wanted about the drones. I have been cleared by all three to fly the drones.”

 

(Reply Trip)

 

“All I need is your acceptance and I can begin.”

 

(Reply Trip)

 

“I spoke to Ensign Solace from medical about the long-term health issues about being connected. I spoke to Ensign Verin from Science about the safety protocol and devises like the jack and the isolation unit and I spoke to Ensign Merek from Engineering about the flight performance and operational ability.”

(Reply Trip)

 

(Reply Trip, any)

(Posted by Robbie)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 11
Stardate: 2444.06.11
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars – Local Hospital - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken and MO Ens (jg) Kasion Poldan - 0745)
(Mars Facility, Corridor in Hangar Complex– Tac/Sec, Ens(jg) Garek Darpeg - 1236)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

(Mars – Local Hospital - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken and MO Ens (jg) Kasion Poldan - 0745)

 

Ailynn, Kasian, Chief Carter and Ashlyn walked through the doors of the town hospital, genuinely surprised by what they saw. Ailynn was aware of a mixture of looks, and glances as they crossed the floor toward the reception. “Good Morning Ma’am.” Ailynn spoke, her accent, that some regarded as a slightly posh, well spoken English, got the receptionists attention immediately. “We’re the surgical team from the base. Dr Harrowitz is expecting us.”

 

“Thank you. Be about your business, There’s filing to do I imagine.” Waving at the receptionist, an older male human appeared from a side room. “Welcome miss…” an ill disguised sneer to his voice.

 

Kaz eyes feel on the men the back to Ailynn. The guy clearly didn’t  think before he spoke. 

 

Ailynn’s temper flew up, but she managed to hold it. She knew that she was being needled, tested.

 

“Doctor Bracken will be fine. My associates, Doctor Poldan, My Surgical nurse Chief Carter, and Miss Jones you of course know.”

 

“Welcome...I’m sure.” Operating Theatre 1. Follow the green line, you have quite the audience amongst the staff for this.

~probably expecting us to fail, jokes on them.~ Kaz thought as he looked at Bracken. 

 

She exchanged a look with Kaz, who she knew was on a wavelength with her.

~watch and learn~

 

On the way, a young couple stopped them, it was clear that she had been constantly crying for days, and his face was racked with guilt. "Doctors? Are you the ones who'll be operating on my baby?" The woman spoke quietly, but her voice was desperately clinging to hope. 

 

"Yes we are ma'am."

 

"So young...are you really…?"

 

"Maxine...leave the Doctor, don't pick on her."

 

"It's okay." Ailynn smiled, "relax. It’s going to be a long one. But your son is in the very best hands. Trust us." She held the mothers trembling hands. She nodded in reply, but managed a wain smile.

 

"You have gentle hands, and what my gran would call 'old eyes'."

 

Ailynn smiled. "Thank you. We'd better go and prepare. Go and try to rest. Please." She turned to Ash. "Ash, find a room for them, try and get them to eat and rest. They'll need it."

 

Ashlyn nodded, leading them carefully toward a side room.

 

Half an hour later, they were changed, scrubbed up, and the patient was ready. Ailynn looked at herself in the mirror, her favourite teddy bear surgical cap, and an ivory coloured gown denoting a cranio-thoracic surgeon stared back at her. She calmed herself down, going through the breathing exercises that she often did before a major procedure like this. Then, only then, did she walk into the operating theatre, reaching the side of the patient opposite Kaz, and held her hands out for Carter to sterilise them and put her gloves on.

 

Kaz stood with the patient in his Salmon colors scrubs that marked him as a pediatric surgeon to anyone unsure of his speciality. He also wore his lucky scrub cap black covered old looking trains Kaz allowed the nurses to glove him  just before Lynn entered the room 

 

“Patient is a 6 year old human male, and will be undergoing a shrapnel removal from the C4 C5 gap. Stats are steady, blood O2 is 100 percent. Patient has been given anesthizine. Doctors, patient is ready and is yours.”

 

“Thank you Chief. Primary incision will be from C2 to C7, a flap will then be opened each side, giving us room to operate. Doctor Poldan.” She looked up and winked at him, the confidence she had in herself filling not only her, but hopefully showing. “Showtime.”

 

“ scalpel“ Kaz said holding out his hand for the scalpel letting the nurse place it in his hand. Kaz made the cut from C2 to C7. Kaz handed the scalpel back. Looking up at Lynn. “Let’s save a life shall we Doctor?” 

 

"Retract. Bisect base of the trapezus muscle. Watch the c4 c5 and c6 posterior occipital branches."

 

(Reply)

 

"Retract trapezus.  Bisect and retract capitis and cervicis muscles." Ailynn was talking to the observation windows more than to Kaz. She knew that he knew what he was doing. The windows above were full. 

 

The minutes ticked away.

 

"Harrowitz wasn't kidding. We have an audience. Suction." She indicated to a small bleed. "Autosuture." Taking the autosuture from Cheif Carter she sutured the small bleed. "Retract and expose vertabrae." Lifting her eyes to Kaz she spoke gently "That...was the easy bit."

 

“One step down.” Kaz said as he looked up at the observation room. 

 

"So...tell me...dinner with Auntie Addie...how did that go? Careful. My section is close to the occipital root. Prepare to drill for vertabral screw."

 

“It’s was awful Lynn, she is being completely unreasonable. Now we are going to Trill like her showing up and starting this big rejoining the federation is just by chance.” Kasian wasn’t even close to falling for his mother’s crap he knew she had another motive. 

 

“I still feel really bad for asking Sy to go with me. I didn’t actually expect to take anyone and it all happened so fast.”

 

“It’s not your fault Kas. Drill.” Ailynn took the small drill and began to drill the two vertabrae, and then began to insert the screw fittings that would expand the vertabrae by enough to allow access to remove the shrapnel.

 

“Vertabrael screw fitted.” Ailynn continued looking up at Kasion. “I've got the microclamp in place. Kaz. Open vertabrael gap.”

 

Ailynn was aware of the murmering as Kasion very carefully began to turn the screw that would open the C4/C5 gap very slightly. “Ladies and gentlemen. I’m going to demand silence during this next phase.”

 

“Gap at maximum allowable. I have the shrapnel in the clamp, beginning removal now. Chief, give me a neural feed, scan and display.”

 

A few scan appeared in her plane of view, Ailynn began the agonisingly slow process of removing it, taking a careful watch on the neural scan, one incorrect move, and the boy would never even breath on his own again.

 

The minutes, ticked by, she never knew how long it had taken to remove the tiny sharp of metal from the spine of that child. Even decades later, she could remember the procedure, but never once the length of time for this section.

 

“Chief, sample tube, neural check?” Her hands were rock steady, in this moment, she and the boy were the only things in the entire universe, “Neural all clean. Nice Job ‘A’.”

 

Unaware that she had been holding her breath Ailynn exhaled deeply as it came free of the spine. “Tube.” She dropped the shard of metal into the tube and the microclamp onto the tray that Carter held out. Ailynn was glad to see that Kasion had already moved on to reparing damage to the disc, and surrounding bone. That done, then, and only then, did they very carefully undo the screw, and close the spinal gap.

 

“Ladies and gentlemen, please feel free to talk freely, there’ll be a 30 minute break, after which we’ll be repairing and tightening the anterior longitudinal ligament, and then we’ll begin resitting the muscles.” She looked up to the windows, her eyes twinkling mischievously. “We’ll even leave him a bad-ass looking scar, because every boy needs bragging rights over his friends?”

 

It was a couple of hours later, Ailynn stepped out of the changing room, exhausted but  showered, a fresh set of her normal scrubs, and joined Kasion out in the corridor. Ignoring his outstretched hand she threw her arms around him, and pulled him into a close hug. Pulling away, she looked into his eyes, a whole conversation, a whole lifetimes worth maybe, passed between them. Nodding, she motioned to the door. “Parents are across the way.”

 

She walked out, a beaming smile on her face, her whole body tingling.

 

They’d barely entered the parents room, when the mother shot across the room, the father pacing slowly, looking pained. “H…H…How How How…” Her eyes were desperate, exhausted as her own. The mother hadn’t slept either. The Father had, Ailynn could tell, but she didn’t think any less of him, it was the difference in men and women, she knew, because he had slept didn’t mean that he thought any less, just that men processed stress differently to women.

 

 

Ailynn lifted her hands onto the mothers shoulders. “Absolute success. Give him time, he’s beginning to come around in the recovery suite as we speak. He’s going to be tired and confused. He’s been under a lot longer than I’d like, and he’ll need a lot of physical therapy. Harrowitz will be organising that.”

 

Ailynn, at that point, understood. She knew what her mother had desperately trying to tell her for years, the looks on the faces of the boys parents was a greater reward then she could conceivably imagine. His mother, just cried once more, though tears of joy. The father, stoic as he was, Ailynn could see he was welling up. “I’m not ashamed of saying I doubted you Doc.” He spoke slowly, perhaps brusque, but his heart was in his voice. “but maker knows I’m a man who’ll admit his fault.”

 

“Really…there’s no need, just…live…love…” Ailynn looked at the both of them, “and forgive. I’ll check up with him as soon as I’m able.”

 

“The hell you say, We owe you deeply, but…thank you Ma’am.”

 

They smiled, looked at each other, and hugged closely as Ailynn as Kaz left the room. Headed back to the base.

 

“Sooo…Mr Poldan…I do believe the first round is on me.”

 

(Reply None)

(Posted by Mark and Rich)

(Mars Facility, Corridor in Hangar Complex– Tac/Sec, Ens(jg) Garek Darpeg - 1236)

NRPG:  Rewrite to satisfy a critic about incipient fires.

RPG:

Darpeg felt a rattle in the installation followed by a dull, thudding pop. He started going toward the source, which appeared to b the hangar. He then heard Peters over his commbadge, =/\=Ensign Darpeg, can you please take a team and find out what's going on in the Hangar bay, apparently there has been some sort of explosion.=/\= .

"I have heard something, and I am in my way to investigate.  I will call for backup as I go."

=/\=Keep me informed, Peters out.-=/\=

"Security Squad Five, This Darpeg.  Respond to possible explosion in Hangar Bay.  Emergency Medical Team Standby."

(Reply any)

The closer to he got to the Hangar, the more serious to the corridor to the damage became.  He rounded a corner and came across an unconscious crewman, bleeding from the forehead, and Darpeg could see that his right arm was sporting a compound fracture.  He checked the man's neck and detected a pulse.

He tapped his commbadge and said,  "Emergency Medical Team to Hangar Complex Corridor Sigma, Section Four Beta.  Will report further casualties."

(Reply any medical)

He then heard groanings from behind an open door.  He then went into the room marked Fueling Control, and saw a man with a broken leg crawling to the door, and a man on the other side of a fallen beam unwilling to climb over it. The Computer then spoke, "Damage to primary refueling valves.  Explosion in one minute.  Containment doors to close in fifty seconds."

Darpeg then picked up the injured man and called to the other, "Come on!  You can get over that beam yourself!  I don't have time to get you both!"

"I'm afraid that the other beam will fall!"

"You must get out!"  Darpeg said as he got to the door and began dragging him a safe distance.  The door then closed, and a few seconds later, there was an explosion.  He then saw the Medical Team and the Security Team arrive.

(Reply anyone)

(Posted by Gary Dupree)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 12
Stardate: 2444.06.12
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Mars Base, Flight Ops Ensign Ravok, Tactical Ensign Taya, 2337)
(Mars Base, Flight Ops Ensign Ravok Shara, Tactical Ensign Taya, 2342)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

(Mars Base, Flight Ops Ensign Ravok Shara, Tactical Ensign Taya, 2342)

"It's my duty to protect everyone here. My personal feelings are secondary 
to that," said Taya in a subdued tone.

"Your personal feelings? So you do have feelings?" he asked with a chuckle 
"Well they aren't secondary to anything."

Taya turned to face Ravok again. She had gone from enjoying the cold, night 
air, to being annoyed over his interruption, to anger over the things he 
said to her. Now, she didn't know how to feel.

"Did Counselor Trei send you to talk to me?" said Taya. "I gave her a hard 
time in my evaluation." She chuckled. "And I do have feelings. I'm not a 
Vulcan."

"Trei? Oh no no" he laughed. "I don't blame you. She's my counselor I'm 
under orders to see her. She doesn't understand Romulan psychology. She 
started showing me images of crashed fighters. I don't know it was weird." 
He laughed again.  "I'm sure her counseling skills are impressive on other 
races but not me. Also I know you have feelings I can tell by your 
antennae." He said to her gesturing to them with his head.

"I had a similar experience with Trei," said Taya. "Since my people left the 
Federation so long ago, new counselors haven't been trained in Andorian 
psychology. I hated having to be evaluated and was going to leave the 
holosuite where she set up the time, so she locked the door. I threatened to 
arrest her for kidnapping a Starfleet officer. I hope I didn't break her." 
Taya laughed, the tips of her antennae were vibrating.

Ravok started laughing really hard "So let me get this straight she locked 
the door on a security officer? Doesn't she know you can unlock pretty much 
anything here with your clearances? And you threatened to arrest her for it? 
That's great, truly great" he said as he continued to laugh. "Well if I ever 
contact you asking to be let out of a holodeck just know it's probably 
because I'm in a session with her."

"I did mention the override codes. I wouldn't have arrested her. I just 
wasn't happy about having to be evaluated," said Taya. "She didn't do 
anything wrong; she was following orders and doing her duty. I should have 
shown her more respect. Maybe I should buy her a gift or take her out for 
drinks at the Red Sands. It's not a good thing to have a Klingon mad at 
you."

Taya was enjoying having a simple conversation with someone. She was 
surprised at how much she missed it.

"No it's certainly not good to have a klingon mad at you. My step mother is 
a klingon and trust me when I say they hold grudges better than anyone. I 
believe Trei would like to have a few drinks. I heard she sings too, very 
well I might add"

Ravok was happy to see Taya being personable.  She wasn't some cold 
emotionless force of nature.  She was a young woman far from home. How could 
he harbor any negativity towards her for that.

"My evaluation was done by Ravenstone, the one with the glorious blue hair. 
She didn't try to lock me in or anything. She was straight forward and very 
nice." Ravok said as he looked up at the sky.

"Did you go with the rest of the female officers on the camping Trip?" He 
asked her.

Taya continued to gaze at the stars while she thought about Ravok's 
question. A simple, no, would have answered him, but she didn't think he'd 
be satisfied with that. She was feeling a connection with him, almost a 
kinship, which was filling the emptiness inside her. She decided to tell him 
more.

"Because my people are from an ice world, and because surviving was so 
difficult, we formed clans. Working together for the wellbeing of the clan, 
was each person's highest duty and responsibility. Anything other than 
survival, was deemed as frivolous and a waste of time and resources." Taya 
looked at the main building of the base and made a sweeping gesture with her 
arm. "This is my clan now. With everything that's happened since we got 
here, my duty and responsibility has been to the clan and not to a frivolous 
camping trip. No. I didn't go." Taya wished things could have been 
different, as she would have loved to have been there.

"The last four years changed me...." Her voice trailed off.

He smiled "We Romulans are… I mean were a clan based people." He looked at 
the building and back at her. "This clan here however takes some time to get 
used to. The past four years were challenging for me at times but i found 
that the more i opened up to them the more they tolerated me. They always 
had their suspicions about me sure, but the more I dropped my guard which 
wasn't easy by the way the more comfortable I became. My first friend at the 
academy was a former slave , a Reman. He befriended me with no judgment. If 
he could so easily befriend me  then I had no excuse." he said as he looked 
at the ground.

"With me, it was different," said Taya. "Your people were always the 
villains. Accepting you was learning to trust an enemy, like it was with the 
Klingons. Andor was a founding member of the Federation. We were important 
members for more than 250 years. Leaving was viewed as a betrayal. Though it 
happened before I was born, I was the symbol of that betrayal. It took a 
long time for that to stop. Instead of being more outgoing, like you were, I 
withdrew. It was my way of putting the clan before myself." She shrugged. 
"This reminds me of a very old song from a video from Earth's history about 
a flying moose with a light on his nose. The two of us are misfits."

Taya actually sang the short verse. She had a beautiful voice, which she had 
hidden from everyone. When she realized what she had done, her cheeks turned 
purple with embarrassment.

Ravok smirked at the singing. "Long time enemy or recent enemy. It seems 
like once you made the bad list you're bound to suffer the consequences. 
Andorians were members of the alliance which grew into the federation after 
the battle of Cheron, like you said founding members. Yet people slander 
your kind the way they slander mine. It's sad really." He said to her.

 "The things I hear people say about andorians are disgusting. It shows no 
respect. If it wasn't for your people they wouldn't have their comfortable 
federation to begin with and Earth would of been nothing but a petting zoo 
for the Romulan Empire." Ravok said with slight bit of sarcasm at the end of 
his statement.

"Or the Xindi," said Taya. "Hopefully one day, we'll be able to put the bad 
blood behind us and get back to the way things are supposed to be. Maybe you 
and I will be a part of that."

Having the talk with Ravok was nice. Taya was a social person and being 
withdrawn for so long, was a burden that was weighing her down. She felt 
like she had just made a friend.

"Thank you for coming to see me," said Taya. There was a short silence 
between them. "It's late and we have a big day tomorrow." She smiled.

He nodded his head. "No need to thank me. Goodnight, see you in a few 
hours." He said as he walked back inside of the complex.

Taya watched as Ravok disappeared into the night. With a smile, she looked 
back at her home star. "I hope to see you soon, Zhavey." (Mother) With that, 
Taya headed back to the complex.

(Reply none)
(Posted by Rob Davis. & Rob B.)

(Mars Base, Flight Ops Ensign Ravok, Tactical Ensign Taya, 2337)

Taya was standing outside the main complex in an isolated corner of the
base. It had become a routine for her to go outside at the end of the
day to relax, unwind, enjoy the cold air, and think about her family.
She found her home star and was gazing at it, when her antennae sensed
someone approaching.

Ravok slowly approached her. "I'd say you're hard to find, Ensign
T'ay'ia sh'Mila'aa." He pronounced it perfectly. "I had to resort to
asking the computer. I figured I'd finally catch up with my other
half... I mean my tactical other half," he said with a smirk.

Ravok, the Romulan pilot, came out of the darkness. He mentioned that
she was hard to find, so he wanted to talk. It was probably about
leaving for Trill the next morning.

“What can I do for you, Ensign Ravok?”

He stood at an acceptable distance from her, not wanting to infringe on
her space. He looked up at the sky in the direction she was looking at.

"Sometimes I wish I could look up and find home. At the academy, I was
envious of all the other cadets that would look up and think of their
homes that they had left behind. All of you had the same look." He said
with a sigh.

"I wish I could feel that... Anyways, I couldn't sleep. I know both of
us have been busy doing everything we can to make sure we are as ready
as possible for the mission ahead. I wanted to introduce myself
officially. I have seen you in passing, but you seem so busy all the
time and I didn't want to bother you."

"I'm security. Getting bothered is what we do," said Taya. Her comment
sounded like humor, but she didn't mean it that way.

Taya thought about Ravok not being able to see his home star. Its
destruction happened before he was born, but his culture, heritage, and
history was there. She didn't know what to say to comfort him, so she
simply nodded.

"You get the honor of being on the bridge tomorrow at takeoff, as you
and I have been charged with handling tactical duties on ship. I wanted
to also make you aware that Ensigns Merek and Sekal helped me with
teaching Luma how to defend herself. She's not perfect, but in the event
of an emergency, she is prepared to fight. Also, the targeting systems
have been optimized to full operational standards; they were a complete
mess," he said with a slight laugh.

Taya turned to directly face Ravok, a stern expression on her face and
her antennae leaning slightly forward. Having read the tactical report,
she already knew about the weapons test with Luma. She had also been
irritated that Ravok was chosen to do it and not her, as she was the one
leading the tactical department. On Andor, a slight like that could have
led to an ushaan challenge. However, since her role wasn't an official
appointment, she hadn't said anything.

"It's good to know we can count on Luma, if it comes to that," said Taya.

He noticed her look and her antennae move.

"Look, perhaps I said something wrong. If I have, I do apologize. It
wasn't my intent. I understand Ensign Peters has appointed you to head
up tactical on Mars. However, he appointed both of us to head up
tactical on the Mystique. I want both of us to be on the same page. We
have teams of people under us and I think this a good opportunity to
show what a valuable asset we are to the Federation. An Andorian and a
Romulan working together for the benefit of the Federation…" He paused
for a moment. "I'm sorry. I get very passionate about these types of
things. I have to hold it in most of the time. Trying to assimilate into
their society isn't easy. I'm sure you understand," he said in a calm tone.

By nature, Andorians were curt, blunt, and often violent, but they were
often slow to anger. More disciplined Klingons, after all. With
everything Taya had experienced the last four years to be accepted and
to fit in, and with the stress of the problems they'd faced on Mars, the
nightly ventures outside had been a way for Taya to blow off steam, as
the Humans said. Ravok had interrupted that time.

"No need to apologize," said Taya. "Is there anything else I can do for
you?" Her tone was mingled with annoyance.

"No, there isn't... Thank you," he said as he turned to walk away, but
stopped himself and turned back to her. "As a matter of fact, yes, there
is. People talk about you. They talk about how cold and heartless you
are. How blunt you are. They say these things not knowing I can hear
them," he said as he pointed to his ears.

"I came here to see for myself what my partner is like. I know you're
not cold or heartless. You are just like me. We are both fish out of our
ponds. I don't want to know you by what people say about you. I don't
give a damn about your reputation.  I care about knowing my fellow
officer for myself…. I need you to know that you don't need to close
yourself off and stay away from everyone. You may be an Andorian, but
you are a Starfleet officer. You may not be up there," he said as he
pointed to the star she had been looking at, but you are among friends,
even if you haven't realized it yet," he said and took a deep breath.

Taya was filled with a blast of emotions. She balled her hands into
fists. Her antennae were quivering, leaning forward and almost flat
against her head. Her arm brushed against her stun baton. To keep from
doing something she shouldn't, Taya turned away from Ravok and walked a
few steps away. Though there was activity and noise coming from the
base, there was an eerie silence between them.

Taya closed her eyes and thought about what Ravok said and why he said
it. They had similar backgrounds, both working hard to excel and be
accepted. Maybe he wasn't chastising her. Maybe he was actually telling
her about himself. Andorian society was based on clans, so they were
very social people. On Mars, she had to admit she was lonely, that the
closeness of the clan was missing in her life. With her back still to
Ravok, Taya spoke in a subdued voice.

"It's my duty to protect everyone here. My personal feelings are
secondary to that."

NRPG: To be continued.

(reply none)
(posted by Robert D. & Rob B.)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 13
Stardate: 2444.06.13
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(Kir Kumari - Bridge - CO, Kera Sheia– 0800)
(USS Mystique -- Counselor  Ensign J. G. Quinna Solice -- 1042
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

(Kir Kumari - Bridge - CO, Kera Sheia– 0800)

This was not what she had envisioned back in her youth, looking through the view screen at the Trill home world and seeing not another ally and confidante but a non-aligned world in a chaotic and turbulent quadrant. A quadrant that was growing increasingly dangerous since the Federation of her youth had ceased to exist.

And it had not been Andoria to blame, that Federation had been rent asunder by unimaginable violence on a number of occasions, from the Borg to the civil war which had set member worlds at each others' throats. 

Andoria itself had been one of the prime targets in the struggle to reclaim the unity of peace from the hands of a power hungry madman. It's Capitol City and environs wiped from the face of their world after the horrific land battles which showed the fifty second fleet that Andoria was not a prize to be easily won.

In the end that fleet, her fleet by extension had ousted the madman and reclaimed the unity of peace only to have it riven from them by a fearful and increasingly paranoid legislature.

Too many Andorians had spilled blood on their homeworld to have their sacrifice so disdainfully mocked. Too many had fought to advance the cause of the Federation to have it undercut by cowardice, too many warriors had claimed the rite of Ku Muran in all its 
bloody glory to be turned back by the thought of enemies unmet, battles unclaimed.

Hers was a warrior culture that had been cowed for a time, tamed a bit so that even now its ancient tenets were only a distant memory. But that culture retained enough pride that when their sacrifices were despised they retaliated by removing themselves from the corrupted carcass of filth and taking what was theirs with them.

"Kar' Sheia."

"Yes..." She looked toward her communications officer, her antenna twitching at the interruption of her thoughts.

"Our ambassador aboard wishes to know why we are being delayed." His own twitched in an embarrassed fashion, he clearly was uncomfortable bringing this to her attention.

She frowned. "The Trill have not set a  day or time for a meeting yet."

"He wishes to go down to the planet nonetheless." He flinched at the lightning that flashed in her eyes.

Her voice when she spoke however was controlled. "He will only be allowed off the ship when I have a guarantee of security for him."

She immediately turned her head back to the view screen, the matter dismissed. Once she had been a young navigation officer... she knew that he did not like bringing the Ambassador's demands to her.

So here they were, Andoria with its military and technological expertise bringing offers of companionship and trust to the Trill. With offers of treaties, mutual cooperation and protection.

It was an offer the Trill would be foolish to turn down. 

(Reply: None)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)

USS Mystique -- Counselor  Ensign J. G. Quinna Solice -- 1042

Quinna wanted to board the Mystique earlier.  She wanted to make sure Luma was doing OK with the new mission.  Well at least Quinna made it on board. She went to her assigned quarters.  There she found her roommate had already boarded, and yes it is the same roommate she has on Mars.  Quinna had hoped this was different. But there she was listening to her roommate with yet another gentleman caller.  Quinna turned herself around and left. She headed to the Counseling Suite. Looking for a quiet corner, Quinna found a place to sit and put her “go bag” down.  She thought the chair she was in would work well for sleeping.  

After taking a deep breath, “Hello, Luma.  I hope you are ready for the opposite if lonely.”

Quinna hung the proverbial “The Doctor is ‘in’”  sign as she started to settle in her corner of the counseling offices.  Starting a to do list, she made sure to put down that she needed a new roommate.

(Replies, Anyone, Please.)
(played by Kris)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 15
Stardate: 2444.06.15
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(USS Mystique, Counsellor’s office - Ensign JG Erin Cortez & Ire Williams -  1030)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

(USS Mystique, Counsellor’s office - Ensign JG Erin Cortez & Ire Williams - 
1030)

Sitting in her office, Erin knew she had two outstanding evaluations to do. 
One, the thought of terrified her and she was trying not to let it and this 
one. Taking a breath, Erin tapped her combadge and spoke,

“Cortez to Ensign Ire Williams.”

=^= Yes Ensign Cortez how can I help you=^=

“Would you come to my office at your earliest convenience?”

=^=Um of course I will be right there=^=

A few moments later Ire approached the Counsellor’s door. He had been 
passing nearby when the call came. He stepped into the office and nodded to 
Cortez.

“Hello Ensign. How can I help you?”

He was not totally sure why she would want a pilot.

Smiling softly, Erin gestured to the couch in her office,

"Take a seat, do you prefer Ensign Williams or mister?"

Ire went to the seat that Cortez motioned to him.

“Ire. I am happy with that.”

Nodding, Erin put down her padd,

"It can't have escaped your attention that there ate crew evaluations being 
done."

Ire nodded and gave a slight smile.

“I thought that I had gotten away with not getting one but I guess that I 
can’t escape on board the Mystique. Okay how would you like to begin?”

Laughing, Erin smiled widely,

"Everyone has to have one, Admiral included. Which is fun for me."

“I am sure.you must be exhausted doing every one.”

"I just need to ask you a few questions. Quick, painless I promise."

“I’ll believe that when I see it.”

He gave a quick smile.

"Okay, tell me about your role?"

Ire paused for a moment and then started.

“Okay. While I am on Mars I am the Flight Squadron Officer of the Void 
Hunters which is a squadron in the 1st Fighter Wing. Which means that I am 
in charge of the squadron when it is in the hangers, which involves a lot of 
administration and logistics and when we all go out on patrol I am the lead 
fighter making sure the rest of the squadron gets back in one piece.

While I am on the Mystique I am one of the CONN officers rotating with 
Ensign Trip Williams to fly the ship. She is a great ship to fly but nothing 
compared with my fighter.”

"Why the name Void hunters?"

Ire grinned.

“It was one of my crew who thought that it was funny as I had an accident 
with my fighter and that if I had died I would have haunted the person 
responsible from the void. Flight crews do have a dark sense of humour.”

"And how do you feel about your role, both on base and on board the 
Mystique?"

“Well. It's not what I expected when I graduated and was sent to Mars?”

“I should be the youngest pilot on the squadron. I should have senior pilots 
and officers above me to sort out the running of the squadron. Hell me and 
Trip should be on a mentorship program to see if we qualify to fly fighters 
at all. I should not be in charge of 81 people with me just over two weeks 
out of the Academy leading them into combat. Let alone to be a backup pilot 
for this ship. I should be one of the pilots relieving me when I need a 
break or go to the head not doing a whole shift.”

He paused getting his emotions under control.

“But I guess no one expected this when we left earth. Yes it's hard, all 
that organizing, logistics, duty rosters and all the other crazy 
administration stuff I have to do on Mars and the long shifts I have to do 
here. It could be worse though.”

“I could have a Trips job.”

He gave a slight smile.

“I get to fly and no matter how mountunus the job. It all is worth it 
because I can fly.”

Taking a breath, Erin nodded,

“I understand, i did not expect to be doing crew evaluations of people with 
a lot more experience in the field than myself this soon. Let alone dealing 
with personal things and….” She paused, blushed ever so slightly, then 
continued,

“Well, we are all adjusting to our new roles. Both in the field and in our 
personal life.”

“That is true but sometimes it would be nice not to be the senior person and 
just one of the crowd.”

“Do you feel supported? By the other pilots i mean. You always seem to be a 
strong group of guys.”

Ire grinned.

“I am very lucky that I have Trip, Ravok and Greta to keep me on the 
straight and narrow. Also Alex when she was here…..”

His grin dropped for a moment when he thought about Alex.

“.....  Trip is a good leader still finding his feet like we all are but not 
standoffish. He is tough when he needs to be but also approachable which is 
good. He has a good head on his shoulders and I am glad to follow him ”
.

“Ravok well he is a crazy Romulan that’s for sure but someone you can depend 
on when it all falls apart. Even if he does get banged up, if he is not 
careful he will out do me.  And Greta who was my Flight Officer she’s now 
the boss of the White Skulls was crazy enough to fly with me even after my 
reputation and having to punch out with me when our fighter blew up. I have 
flown into harm's way with all of them and would do it again in a 
 heartbeat.”


“Your reputation?”

“You may have noticed that I have not had a good experience with fighters at 
the moment. I had one brake up on me while I was reentering mars, the second 
one was when we were on the combat mission when I had to do an emergency 
decompression into space with my flight officer, then the God of War 
exploding when we returned and then my officer bursting into flames. People 
are saying that whenever I go near a craft I am cursed. There is a reason 
why my fighter has a lucky thirteen on the side of it.”

Erin nodded slightly,

"But you aren't cursed. You know that."

Ire nodded.

“I know that I am not cursed but things are happening to me more than other 
people. Maybe I am just unlucky.”

"Okay, slight change of direction. This current mission. How do you see your 
role in it?"

“My role….. I am the number two pilot on the ship. I do the secondary shift 
of  flying the ship while Trip does the primary. I deal with shuttle and 
small craft on board or fly wing man with Trip, if we take the fighters out. 
I am happy with this arrangement as Trip is a starship pilot and is good at 
flying the Mystique. I have always prefered small craft and fighters which 
is what I excel at.”

"Okay, last question I think and then you are free." She replied with a 
smile,

"Anything you want to take about? Whilst this may be an evaluation,  we, the 
counselling team that is, are always here to listen."

Ire smiled and nodded.

“I think I have done a lot of talking this morning. I don’t have anymore at 
the moment.”

Smiling, Erin nodded,

"That's fine. Thankyou for your time."

(Reply none)
(Posted by Jackie and Robbie)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Mission: You Can't Go Home Again
Day: 16
Stardate: 2444.06.16
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(USS Mystique – Deck 14,  CSO's office – Intelligence Officer Ensign(jg) Jaelle Foxglove and  Ensign  Sekal – 1343)
(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO(R), Ensign Sekal – 1430)
(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO, Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin– 1430)
(USS Mystique – Bridge - TAC. Ensign jg Ravok – 1431)
(USS Mystique – Bridge -Pilot, Ensign JG – Ire Williams  – 1755)
(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO(R), Ensign Sekal – 1800)
(USS Mystique – Bridge - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl – 1801)
(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO(R), Ensign Sekal – 1805) 
(USS Mystique – Trips quarters – TAC Ensign JG Ravok & aFSXO Ensign jg Trip Williams – 1920)
(Kir Kumari - Ready Room - CO, Kera Sheia– 1930)
(Scott Matrix - Panel AR5 - EO Scott Matrix – 1931) 
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
(USS Mystique – Deck 14,  CSO's office – Intelligence Officer Ensign(jg) Jaelle Foxglove and  Ensign  Sekal – 1343)

"What can I do to help."

Jaelle took a moment her thoughts were deep. How many times had she had to reinvent herself. How many times did Jaelle have to make her way in the world. To press onward when the cards were stacked against her. She watched over the young ensigns knowing most of their parents and being there when they passed away. Yet she remained, yet she was constant.

"What can you do to help?." Her voice was barely above a whisper. She shook her head "Ensign Sekal, you are young still there is so much of your life before you. Test and hardships that you will in no way be prepared for."

She looked at him locking her eyes on his, "What help do you think you can offer someone like me?"

He shrugged as he settled back.

"Only you can determine that. Perhaps in the future you could use assistance or perhaps now you could use someone to talk to." He nodded his head. "A Vulcan does not make such offers lightly nor do we treat them lightly. It is something you will have to consider of course."

He held her gaze without expression. "Can I be trusted and how much and what are the limits of the things I should know if you see fit to speak to me at length about anything that troubles you. But not as a Counselor. Call it what you will Ensign Foxglove but the offer such as it is stands."

"Thank you." She spoke softly he mind racing with so many thoughts. "In time I may accept your offer but now there are more pressing concerns. I hope I didn't take too much of your time."

"I asked you to meet me here. You did not take up 'too much' of it."

Sekal watched the intelligence operative leave. When the door shut behind her he settled back contemplatively. His father would not have extended such an "Olive branch" as it were. 

But he was not his father.

She left the office she wanted to return to her quarters but her mind raced so she wondered the halls of the Mystique, trying to find herself.

(Reply: None)

(Posted by Charles Gatling and Matthew Locke)

(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO(R), Ensign Sekal – 1430)

Sekal stepped out of the turbolift and made directly for the science station where Ensign Verin was currently sitting. He had come is response to her call and breathless exclamations.

He walked up beside her. "Yes Ensign Verin?:

(Reply: Sienna)

He sat in the chair and began to pull up records for this sector even as he was looking at the massive readings being taken at extreme range. What he was seeing was impressive. 

The most current records were from thirty eight years ago and offered the earliest glimpse of what was happening now which from their perspective was nothing but a feeling of excitement at a coming event.

Sekal turned the chair toward command.
"There is a nebula coming up at extreme range on our sensors. Two, thirty two, Mark three. The sight should be quite impressive."

(Reply: Command)

With the view changed to the proper direction and magnified the stuff of those earlier scientists dreams came into focus.

Onscreen were swirls of magenta and crimson denoting ionized plasma and gas clouds which were filtering the light of young stars behind them in the background and yellow suns burning nearly white in their youthful vigor in other locations within this new 'Stellar nursery'.

"The latest records which were from thirty eight years ago noted that the clumps of matter and gas within the Delphinia Nebula were nearing critical mass and expected to ignite."

He didn't say anything more, what else was there to say? Even to a Vulcan the immensity of the sight of this new event was staggering.

(Reply: Any)

The closest pass to the nebula at our current course will be reached in three hours and eighteen minutes. At that point an unaided view should be quite..." he searched for the word, "... extraordinary"

(Reply: Any)

(Posted by Charles Gatling)

(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO, Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin– 1430)

Sienna had been sitting on the bridge, bored after several days of the same sensor data. At first the duty had been new and exciting. The bridge, talking softly to Luma, and sailing through space, as Luma often called it 'the star-song'. Sy could see that, for a space going alien, Luma seemed to love the stars. Sienna was a bit jealous. This was her first foray into space and she too wanted to hear the song that Luma spoke so poetically of. Sy could feel Luma humming happily in the back of her mind most of the time. She was curious about how Vex was dealing with being Luma's bondmate. 

To be fair it was the excitement in Luma that first showed Sy that something was at the edge of her sensor readings. She narrowed it in and felt Luma's joy at the discovery. It was a stellar nursery and Sienna was not a specialist in this area. But Sekal was, and she knew that as someone more familiar with the protocols of research that he would have advice on how best to categorize and scan. It was a small thing in the grand scheme, Sienna supposed. But it was the first time on this mission that she felt like Starfleet's former mission of discovery was being fulfilled. She tapped her comm badge and called for Sekal who came to the bridge and answered her rather promptly.  

"Yes Ensign Verin?" Sekal asked, leaning over her shoulder to study the readings. 

"Do you have suggestions for how to scan?"Her voice was breathless and she could feel Luma basically singing in joy at the discovery of the stellar nursery. Luma wanted very much to divert to go and see the area up and close.  It was up to Vex to deal with Luma however. 

"The closest pass to the nebula at our current course will be reached in three hours and eighteen minutes. At that point an unaided view should be quite..." he searched for the word, "... extraordinary"  

Sy bounced slightly and followed Sekal's directions, quartering the area for better coverage. She was so excited, to finally see something new. She knew that her excitement was likely spilling over to her twin, Trip. She turned after putting the nebula on the front viewscreen. She sent the image to her twin, excitement tinging her sending of the image.  He had an interest in stellar cartography and she knew that he would love to see this as well.  Study it.  

 (USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO, Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin – 1804)  

 "Ensign Verin has been taking readings for the past three and one half hours and has divided the nebula into quadrants. She can tell you which areas have been exhaustively scanned and which have not. Concentrate your efforts on those which have the least data. It is preferable to have a good start on all than much on a few."

Sienna smiled at Alyl, and stood up, stretching. She was tired, and she had skipped her meal breaks in order to stay on the bridge and study the nebula, something that she was sure that Sekal would disapprove of, had he known. Her stomach growled audibly and she laughed it off.

"As you can see, I have used the sensors to scan quadrants 1 and 2 exhaustively and we are about a quarter of the way through quadrant 3. I left quadrant 4 for last because as we have passed the nebula, it will be the quadrant closest to us." She took a deep breath, "I wish I could stay and watch it further, but I need to go get something to eat. I have never... I've never been in space before like this, and that. It's amazing. I can understand why Luma is singing her joy in the back of my mind." She smiled brighter, knowing that when Sekal was touching the controls he too could feel the joy of Luma's singing. 

"I'll be off to get some food then. Enjoy Ensign Alyl, and I look forward to checking out your readings when I'm back on duty." Sienna stayed on the bridge for one long moment, still staring at the beautiful scene on the view screen before basically hopping off the bridge, humming something unconsciously that would be a beautiful harmony if they too could hear what Luma was singing. 

(reply if you want)
(posted by Melinda)

(USS Mystique – Bridge - TAC. Ensign jg Ravok – 1431)


Sekal turned the chair toward command.
"There is a nebula coming up at extreme range on our sensors. Two, thirty two, Mark three. The sight should be quite impressive."

Ravok nodded his head to Sekal." On screen Ensign" Ravok stated to Sekal

(Reply any)

With the view changed to the proper direction and magnified the stuff of those earlier scientists dreams came into focus.

Onscreen were swirls of magenta and crimson denoting ionized plasma and gas clouds which were filtering the light of young stars behind them in the background and yellow suns burning nearly white in their youthful vigor in other locations within this new 'Stellar nursery'.

"The latest records which were from thirty eight years ago noted that the clumps of matter and gas within the Delphinia Nebula were nearing critical mass and expected to ignite."

( reply any)

Ravok was nearly speechless " Ensign Sekal, take readings of all activity, this is exploration at its finest. When will our closest pass be" he asked Ensign Sekal.

"The closest pass to the nebula at our current course will be reached in three hours and eighteen minutes. At that point an unaided view should be quite..." The vulcan paused for a moment "... extraordinary"

" Very well Ensign Sekal , I look forward to observing the nebula at our closest pass" Ravok said to him.

The beauty of the nebula on the view screen was monumental. Ravok sat in the command chair. He was moved by this experience.~ some people live their entire lives without seeing such a thing~ he thought to himself 

(Reply any)

(Posted by Davis)

(USS Mystique – Bridge -Pilot, Ensign JG – Ire Williams  – 1755)

 

Ire entered the bridge a few minutes before his shift started. He observed the bridge getting a feel for how the situation was.

 

~Nothing feels untoward~

 

He stepped forward towards the CONN and moved over to Trip and spoke quietly so that he would not disturb others.

 

“Good evening Trip how has your afternoon been?”

(Reply Trip)

(Reply Trip, any)

(Posted by Robbie)

(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO(R), Ensign Sekal – 1800)

The closest pass had just been reached at two point eight light years and they would be paralleling the nebula for another five hours while slowly moving away from it. Sekal was standing by the science station, his eyes still drinking in the glorious and richly hued sight. 

Ensign Verin stood up and Sekal turned his head to see Jaton Alyl approaching on time.

(Reply: Verin, Alyl)

Sekal turned his head to indicate the stellar nursery.

"Continue long range scans of our course as always Ensign but most of your attention will be on the Delphinia Nebula. We need mass, density, spectrum, diameter. particulate excretion.... everything you can put together on what is a stellar nursery in its infancy."

NRPG: Time for a shift passdown
RPG:

He indicated Sienna. "Ensign Verin has been taking readings for the past three and one half hours and has divided the nebula into quadrants. She can tell you which areas have been exhaustively scanned and which have not. Concentrate your efforts on those which have the least data. It is preferable to have a good start on all than much on a few."

(Reply: Sienna, Jaton)

(Posted by Charles Gatling)

(USS Mystique – Bridge - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl – 1801)

Jaton stepped onto the bridge at precisely 1800 hours, a cup of tea in one hand and several PADDs in the other. It had been a long time since he'd had bridge duty, but he felt good to be back on the bridge in the heat of action. He approached Sekal.

"Good evening, sir."

(Reply: Verin)

Sekal turned his head to indicate the stellar nursery.

"Continue long range scans of our course as always Ensign but most of your attention will be on the Delphinia Nebula. We need mass, density, spectrum, diameter. particulate excretion.... everything you can put together on what is a stellar nursery in its infancy."

He indicated Sienna. "Ensign Verin has been taking readings for the past three and one half hours and has divided the nebula into quadrants. She can tell you which areas have been exhaustively scanned and which have not. Concentrate your efforts on those which have the least data. It is preferable to have a good start on all than much on a few."

Jaton's eyes widened with delight. "A stellar nursery! Brilliant! Have we detected any planetoids?"

(Reply: Sienna)
(posted by Spencer)

(USS Mystique – Bridge - aACSO(R), Ensign Sekal – 1805) 

Ensign Verin gave a creditable passdown of the results of her recorded scans.

"As you can see, I have used the sensors to scan quadrants 1 and 2 exhaustively and we are about a quarter of the way through quadrant 3. I left quadrant 4 for last because as we have passed the nebula, it will be the quadrant closest to us. I wish I could stay and watch it further, but I need to go get something to eat. I have never... I've never been in space before like this, and that. It's amazing. I can understand why Luma is singing her joy in the back of my mind."

The Trill's eyes had widened noticeably. "A stellar nursery! Brilliant! Have we detected any planetoids?"

"I'll be off to get some food then. Enjoy Ensign Alyl, and I look forward to checking out your readings when I'm back on duty."

While she lingered watching the view screen Sekal shook his head at Jaton.

 "The debris within the star's gravitational fields according to what has been scanned so far is too small to carry any such designation however the aftermath of numerous asteroid collisions is already evident. It will take millions of years theoretically before enough matter from the orbital planes has coalesced to form any sizable masses."

(Reply: Jaton)

His fingers quickly pressed several buttons bringing up an example of one of the stars in question.

"You can see the rings of matter around D53 clearly, given time orbital planes four through eight should form sizable planets but we are here far too early in their cycle of development. The scans are far from over however since sectors three and four aren't yet complete. It is unlikely but within the realm of possibility that a planet or planetoid might exist within the nebula. If you find one or more please notify me immediately."

(Reply: Jaton)

(Posted by Charles Gatling)

(USS Mystique – Trips quarters – TAC Ensign JG Ravok & aFSXO Ensign jg Trip Williams – 1920)

Walking to the door of Trips quarters Ravok chimed on the pad . 

"Come in." Trip said as he lifted his head up from the book he was reading.

" Good evening Sir, there is something I need to talk to you about...it's about Ire " Ravok said in a concerned tone"

"You don't need to call me sir. You're Carson's problem now," trip said with a wink. "Did he almost die again?"

He looked down " No...not yet" he looked back up at Trip and stepped towards him and handed him a PADD .

" This is a recommendation I made to the Admiral about Ire and his time on the bridge while I was relieving Admiral Ramae. "

"Oh?"

" It recommends the deduction of his time at the end of his shift with the amount of time he covered for you" He said to Trip 

"I see." Trip said.

" I also pulled Ire aside and told him that had I'd known his intention to relieve you was not scheduled I wouldn't of permitted him to be on the bridge at that time as you had coverage ready to relieve you at any time and I feel horrible for it " Ravok said with a sad look on his face.

"Ravok, I know you were trying to do the right thing but I think you should have come to me before addressing Ire."

" You are correct. " he nodded his head.

"First off, I don't appreciate you eavesdropping on that conversation. That was a private conversation. Second, I'm his superior officer. You should have brought your concerns to me and I would have addressed them with him. Third, by me allowing him to stay on the bridge was my giving him permission to be on duty even though he went about it the wrong way."

" It wasn't my intent to eavesdrop. You both whisper loudly" he said as he pointed to his ears. " I know you are his commanding officer and I know you allowed him to remain...but as the bridge was temporarily left to me I felt obligated to say something to him" Ravok replied.

"I understand that you were in command. But part of command is delegating and allowing department heads to do their job, such as dealing with personnel issues."

Ravok looked at him. " Sir we both have to admit Ire has a habit of pushing himself. But I needed to clarify it to him that had I'd known of his unplanned attempt to relieve a on duty bridge officer he wouldn't of been permitted.  Perhaps it was in my own ignorance that I didn't quickly reference the flight operations schedule. I hesitated longer than I should have and I should have stopped you before you left , but to be clear with you Sir...you.." Ravok hesitated and drew a deep breath. " You intimidate me sir, you are a model officer" Ravok said as he couldn't make eye contact with Trip feeling ashamed for admitting intimidation. 

Trip burst out laughing. "Seriously?" The laughter continued, "You're intimidated by me? Seriously how?"

Ravok looked at Trip  " You are from a family of leaders you are a leader. You have a chip on your shoulder. Even when you weren't in command you carried yourself like you were born to command. I studied tirelessly at the academy . I know every single starfleet regulation. I know every command procedure but still you have something I will never have." He continued to look at Trip 

"Dashing good looks." Trip said still laughing from Ravok's confession that he was intimidated by Trip.

" I have never spoken my mind to you clearly. You tell me don't call you Sir . Then turn around and act like a Sir ...you are without a doubt the single most complex individual I have ever met." Ravok said 

"And what do you mean by that?" Trip's demeanor began to change.

" Permission to speak freely  from the chains of Intimidation or command ?" Ravok asked trip.

"I thought that was what we were doing."

Ravok took a deep breath " First, allowing Ire to relieve you is your direct and explicit right as his commanding officer but by allowing him to do so is only further enabling him. Secondly, I wasn't eavesdropping. My hearing is far superior to yours so perhaps that should be a lesson to both of you who you talk around. Faulting me for my hearing is like faulting you for being a passive empath. I wouldn't ever dare do that because you have a gift Trip. Third and last...Whatever happens on the bridge when I am relieving the commanding officer  becomes my business. As a matter of fact in that moment everything on this entire damned ship becomes my business. So handle your officers how you see fit but if I am ever trusted to relieve the Admiral again it would be appreciated if you handle such business away from the helm. You left the bridge noticeably frustrated and that is very unbecoming of a department head. Especially when that department head is you." He said to Trip standing his ground. Ready for Trip to blow his top off.

Trip just stood there and listened.

" I didn't come here to argue. I really didn't. I came here out of concern for a person we both call friend " Ravok declared 

"Ravok take a seat." Trip then sat opposite him. "There is a difference. My abilities, it's only emotions, feelings, not conversations. Nor do I act on it unless there is an emergency."

He sat down. And listened to Trip

"Was there an emergency? Also I didn't leave upset I left with a smile. So again I ask, was there an emergency?"

" No, what's the point you are making ?" Ravok asked him

"There is only so much you can learn from a textbook. I left with a smile to not put heat on Ire. To not let it appear as if he was in the wrong."

Ravok nodded his head trying to understand what Trip was saying .

"You acted on what you heard, I get that. But there is a time and place. The bridge was not it. The moment you removed Ire to the ready room, you singled him out. At that point everyone on the bridge knew there was an issue. I was hoping to avoid that."

" I see that now" he replied to Trip 

"Did you even look at my face when I left or had you already decided to act before I even left?"

" No, I actually hesitated. Which is something I shouldn't of done.  A part of me realized you wouldn't make a scene if necessary. I observe you more than you know" he said as he put his hand up " Not like that, but I watch people closely to figure them out. It's just something I do. Your mannerisms. The patterns in your voice. I hesitated for a few moments . I pulled him aside not to scold him, but to really let him know that he just ...I don't know… he just so casually skirts the rules and it worries me so much.  How many brushes with death does he need to have to realize his luck isn't going to last forever. " Ravok said as he looked down. " Look I messed . I admit that and I am sorry, I truly am. " he said to Trip with sincerity in his voice. 

"Look you did what you thought was right. And I can't fault you for that or your concern. You saw something you thought needed to be addressed and you did it. But sometimes, and we all make mistakes, we need to step back and look at all the variables."

" I just am not cut out for command. Not yet " Ravok said 

"Hell I'm not sure I am either."

" I'm letting you know that when we return from Trill I am considering resigning from Starfleet, I have been thinking alot about it. I don't think I'm cut out for this….I'm not you "Ravok said somberly.

"Well hell man, only I'm me. You can't compare yourself to me. That's stupid. Besides only one of us has a reprimand on their personal record."

" One that I don't agree with...off the record " he said waving his hand to Trip.

"Look we had different upbringings. My grandfather shared a lot of wisdom with his grandkids. I learned from him. I also played sports, was captain of my high school baseball team my senior year. Was captain of the academy wrestling team. It provides opportunities to grow and learn how to lead. You learn a lot by watching coaches, how they discipline, how they reward. "

" I can see how that has benefited you tremendously. You turned out good." Ravok replied 

"But seriously, you can't compare yourself to me."

Ravok leaned back in his seat. " Fine, I am not you.  I get that...besides your beard is patchy." Ravok said jokingly with a laugh. " But I can learn by following your example. I know you're not a councilor but I know I can learn alot from you. If I have a question which leaves me confused or a situation that leaves me challenged...Can I come to you for guidance ?" He asked Trip.

"Look, Ravok, I'm not some western hero. I'm just as young and inexperienced as you. I'm here for help. But not guidance. Man, you hype me up as some mythic hero, but I make mistakes man. You just need to trust your gut."

" I trust it while flying. Guess I should trust it when I'm not as well"  Ravok said with a slight smile. 

"Anything else?"

" There is something bothering me. It's sitting  heavily on my thoughts. Yesterday Elsie...she told me something about my real mother. What she told me has profound effects on me. It probably played into my poor judgment on the bridge with Ire. " he took a deep breath and started shaking a little bit. " She showed me reports from the Romulan. " He reached into his pocket and tossed Trip an info puck.

" Here check it out " 

"What am I looking at?"

The information on the puck was emitted in a holographic display. It was the full official report from the Romulan government. Declaring his mother Velina Kervik was a former Tal Shiar operative and her death was a reported cover up. 

" She betrayed the Tal Shiar 25 years ago. She leaked vital intelligence to the federation and it got her killed. I don't know what's worse. The fact she was Tal Shiar or the fact that she was murdered. I was always told it was an accident...this is why I am considering resigning before this information leaks out and people trust me less than they already do." Ravok said.

"Forget Elsie. She's just trying to get a story. She's the worst kind of reporter. She is a b…," Trip caught himself. "She's trying to get you to blow up for a good story. Ignore her."

" She offered to dig deeper for me. She's willing to risk her life digging into Tal Shiar business for me...journalist or not that's some serious stuff…" he paused for a moment and shook his head .

" Anyways I am getting off topic. What can we do for Ire as friends?" 

"I don't trust Elsie. She'll dig. But she'll use that info for her own agenda."

" I agree , but if the Federation killed your mother and someone offered to find more information I am sure you would want answers" he said to Trip 

"Consider the source. Consider the ramifications. If you do this. It whatever can't be undone. Right now it's easy.  You can chalk this up to the machinations of a woman who cares only of herself. You can ignore her and go back to believing your mom was who you thought she was."

He nodded his head as he listened to Trip.

"But if you pull this string, if you dig deeper. If you start investigating the Tal Shiar, you're endangering your career, your life, the lives of this crew, and the federation.  So you need to think real hard. Is it worth it?"

" Endangering the lives of the people I care about isn't worth it but I feel like I need to know more." Said Ravok 

"And if it is, you do it right. You cut out miss journalistic lack of integrity and you tell the Admiral and go through him. You do this the right way."

" I agree , the Admiral is a good man with a lot of experience and common sense.  He could offer a completely different alternative. I will talk with him once we return to Mars."

"As for Ire," Trip paused. "I think he needs to learn his limits. He grew up with nothing but an AI to teach him. He needs to learn that with people he can't just do what he wants. But I don't know if that's a friend thing. It may be a boss thing. But I don't know."

" I think that's crossing a personal line and coming at him from a command perspective might be counter productive, but that is your call not mine. If you want me to try as a friend I think I could level with him."

"It's not crossing a personal line. If my officer, who is accident prone, won't take time off, then as his superior officer, it's my duty too make sure he does. Ire is…" Trip pauses. "He's smart but he doesn't … what's the word im looking for. He lacks.."

" I would say personal sense of self preservation. Must be the Human in him." Said Ravok. He agreed with Trip on both points. He should tell Elsie to back off of the digging. He also agreed that since Ire was his officer. Trip should handle it himself. Ire was a good officer and a loyal friend. He just seemed completely fearless in dealing with everything. To Ravok Ire was the man who wouldn't die. 

"Thank you for talking to me, once again I do apologize for my...Different approach to command. I just want you to know. I value your input and appreciate it, more than you know." Ravok said as he stood up. 

"Look you can't compare apples to oranges here. Our approach to situations comes from experience. And I'm not always right. I mean if I was I would never have landed my fighter in Alex's shuttle bay. I'm a screw up just like you. We will figure this out together. As for Ire. He knows he needs to slow down. We'll see how Trill goes and I'll do a larger addressing of issues on the way home. Anything else?

" No that is all. I got some things to do tonight " he said to Trip 

" Good night Sir Trip" Ravok said with grin 

"And remember, I'm no western hero. Don't put me on a pedestal. And don't call me Sir"

" As you wish Mr Williams " Ravok said playfully.

Trip then went to the replicator to get some water as Ravok left. ~Tal Shiar… why would the kid of a Tal Shiar agent make it to Starfleet without getting taken out unless…. Nah. Don't go down that rabbit hole."


( reply none)

( posted by Will and Rob Davis)

(Kir Kumari - Ready Room - CO, Kera Sheia– 1930)

It was past time for her to be in her cabin but she wasn't ready for sleep yet. The meeting just conducted in the conference room between the Ambassador and those Trill representatives sent up from the surface had not been fruitful though it was certainly enlightening.

Extrapolation one; The political picture on Trill was fractured with some being willing to entertain the Andorian overtures while many seemed to be holding back in favor of another, as yet unnamed suitor. 

Extrapolation two; The highest levels of Trill leadership were in the second camp and Sheia and the ambassador were being delayed, obfuscated and redirected with nothing being accomplished while those Trill leaders were awaiting word from those other suitors.

It wasn't overt of course, they disguised their delaying tactics well but it was obvious they were attempting to placate their "guests" while awaiting word from another.

The computer spoke. =^= Ambassador Sei Lara requests permission to enter.=^=

"Come." She sighed. This was not how she had wanted her day to end.

"Kar Sheia." He spoke as he glided into the room. He inclined his head deferentially, even his antenna seemed to bow slightly.

"Ambassador...", she motioned to a comfortable chair, "... please sit. What can I do for you?"

He swept into the chair and smiled. "How many times have I asked you to call me Sei?"

"As many times as I've told you to call me Kera." she retorted with a wink.

He chuckled. "It is ingrained in the psyche from our youth it seems to call the commander of a vessel by their rank.  My apologies Kera I will fight it in private."

"Good." She stood up and walked to a sidebar and poured two tumblers of ice blue liquid from a crystal decanter and took one to him.

She stopped before her desk and turned before taking a sip from her own glass. This Andorian Ale she favored above all others and the distiller was a personal favorite. The liquid was cool and bracing with only a hint of harshness as it evaporated from the tongue.

"Who do you think it is?"

"What?" he asked as though he misunderstood.

"Who are they making us wait for? What is their gsme?"

He shrugged. "I have no idea. We were led to believe that the time was ripe for me to come here on behalf of our people but it is obvious we have at least one competitor and they are split on who to support and that concerns me."

"Yes, I know." She did her best to modulate her voice. The Trill were at once solicitous and at the same time secretive. "How long will this take do you think?"

He shrugged." Only our hosts could possibly say. The Trill symbiotes are extremely long lived and that makes them very patient. They take a very long view of things which many do not. We could be here weeks more. who knows?"

She didn't like the sound of that.

"As for who, I have contacts on the surface if I can get in touch with them without the Trill knowing. They are watching everything we do closely. No doubt this is one reason I am still on the ship and not the surface."

That caught her by surprise. "They are spying on us?"

He shook his head. "No Kera, watching. There is a difference. They aren't interested in our secrets but our motives. I trust they will find we are dealing honestly."

She nodded as she took another sip, she didn't relish sitting in orbit for weeks while the Trill made up their minds.

(Reply: None)

(Posted by Charles Gatling)

1931)

Scott finished programming the relays, everything tested so he moved on to the next trouble ticket. It was a never ending sea of problems, fixes and the enviable ‘its not working’ from whomever. Most wouldn’t know how to log into their console if their life depended on it. Nonetheless it was Scott’s job to ensure that things were working properly. 
He’s opened the access panel and started to diagnose the problem. ~Nothing~.

Diagnostics returned, normal. His dispatch alert told him otherwise. 

~Okay…lets see what’s going on.~

“Computer, diagnostic panel MCA-001-TES”

He waited for several moments.

[Telemetry junction MCA is offline]

“Okay, that doesn’t make sense. “ 

[Please rephrase the question]

“Nevermind” he replied.

Several minutes passed as Scott disassembled the panel, and placed everything back to his normal operating environment. 

“Computer, test panel MCA-001TES,” level one and report.”

[Access verified. System working within normal perimeters.]

~Good.~

Scott gathered up this toolkit and accosted his PADD.

~This isn’t what I signed up for.~ He thought.

(Reply any, none)
(Posted by Steve)