Compiled by Calvin Capps ======================================================================================================================== Mission: Interlude Day: 2 Stardate: 2407.01.21 ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, COPS' Office - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 0900) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 3 - ACTO Ensign(jg) Detron Trei - 17.00) (USS Paladin, COPS' Quarters - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1810) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/30 Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1820) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4, FSXO 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath, 1855) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1858) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4, FSXO 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath, 1859) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 19:00) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 19:06) (USS Paladin - Sickbay - Ensign SG CMO Nissa Whetari - 1920) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign SG CMO Nissa Whetari - 1940) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1942) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign SG CMO Nissa Whetari - 1943) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1945) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign SG Nissa Whetari - 1945) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - OPS Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1950) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1952) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - OPS Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1953) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - TAC/SC Kerge - 19:54) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Michael Ian O'Connor - 1955) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - OPS Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1956) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1958) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1959) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 20:00) (USS Paladin, Deck 5 Personal Quarters - 2200) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, COPS' Office - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 0900) Michael was in his office, working on the daily reports and diagnostics when the computer chirped at him. [Computer repairs now complete] Michael immediately got nervous knowing what he had to do. He had planned everything out the previous day and set up what he needed, but he had to wait for the computer repairs to be complete before he could do it. Sarouk would have planted the false evidence by now, and all Michael needed to do was do his part by altering the altered evidence. "Computer run program Whitehall 3-3-7" Michael ordered. The program would look like a simple diagnostic, something he ran dozens of times a day, and which would probably reach one hundred times to make sure the computer was running at 100%. It would find the data that Sarouk had planted and change it and any related data. With in a minute it would simply look as though during the heat of battle Michael opened the Cargo bay doors to vent the atmosphere and protect the ship, which it what he actually did. Instead, with the help of Sarouk and the Captain and Commander, he was trying to look like he was covering up trying to sabotage the ship, hoping to find out who the mole on the ship really was. Michael was an expert with computers, and had designed this virus extremely carefully. Only if someone was watching his moves with the computer would they notice he was changing something. The only other people who might notice would be Sarouk because he had planted the evidence against him himself, and maybe Matrix, but only if he was very lucky. Michael watched as the virus changed all the data that needed to be changed, then watched as it backed out of the system, covering it's tracks with a level of finesse that made Michael quite proud of himself. When it was completely finished, and all traces of the change had been erased, the program deleted itself and all records of it's existence. ~~The game's afoot~~ Michael thought before starting more diagnostics on the computer core, these necessary to make sure it was actually working correctly when people weren't messing with it and changing it's data all around. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 3 - ACTO Ensign(jg) Detron Trei - 17.00) Detron stood at the door to Holodeck 3. Detron spoke to the computer. "Computer. Create a new program based on an ancient Earth game called Yu Gi Oh Dungeon Dice Monsters. Place two podium like tables facing each other. Connect the two podiums with a gridded floor. Wire the floor with top holographic technology to be able to create virtual characters battling virtual monsters in turn based battle. Players can choose from Warroir, Mage, Ranger, Paladin, Cleric, and Knight. Players can combine characters such as Mystic Knight, Paladin Ranger, or whatever two combined. On the podium tables place a set of dice. Each die has crests representing attack, defense, movement, and magic. Some dice will have muliple crests. Crests determine what action a character can execute. Special attacks, defenses, magic, and traps can be executed with accumulating crests. Destroying monsters and clever plays build experience. After a certain number of experience points, a character will gain a level and be able to execute more attacks, defenses, and magic spells. Create my character as a Mystic Knight with a great sword for mele attacks. Create him with black shirt and pants. Give him a black cape and red hair. I have a party to go to. Work on the program I will test it tomorrow. Detron went next door to Holodeck 4. He entered to Irish music streaming in the air. He walked to the cottage and knocked twice. Hearing no objection, he opened the door to see several officers standing with food or Guinness. Detron grabbed a glass and poured himself a Guinness then joined his fellow officers in the revilry. "This is great. I may try a Jig after a few more of these beers." (posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, COPS' Quarters - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1810) Michael was hunched over at his desk, working harder than he probably should have been for being off shift but he didn't have a whole lot else to do. Elizabeth, who had been spending most waking hours with Michael, was curled up on the couch watching some old movie on the wall screen. "Mikey, I'm bored, how do you people stand doing nothing but work, day in and day out?" Elizabeth arching her head back over the arm of the couch to look at her brother. Michael knew that Starfleet would never agree with his sister, she was a bit too free of a spirit to be tied to a career centered on taking orders. However in this instance she was very right. In the past week and a half they had been in two major space battles where they had nearly lost the ship and probably their lives. They were faced with a growing war with no chance of a happy ending, in Michael's opinion, civil wars rarely ended happily even if you side was the victor. To top all of that off, they had no contact with friends or family outside of the 52nd fleet and no reasonable hope of shore leave in the near future. Michael had seen a growing number of reports of sliding efficiency and restlessness and something had to be done. What had to be done was another question entirely. "You're right, we need something to do, not just the two of us, but everyone." Michael said, racking his brain to think of something. "What kind of programs do you have for the holodeck," Elizabeth asked sitting up and pausing the movie. The word holodeck sparked his memory, and an idea. What was actually only a single week ago seemed like nearly a year. "Elizabeth, you are a genius, I have an idea, but do you mind if I invite some friends to come along, I know some people who need to unwind too." Michael said. "As long as it's fun," his sister said with a shrug. Michael was proud of his sister, he knew she hadn't slept well the night before but she was adjusting well, and was at least trying to put this past behind her and heal. "Excellent, come with me and we'll see what we can cook up," Michael said, waiting for his sister to put her shoes on before heading out the door. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/30 Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1820) Michael quickly walked into the holodeck, followed by his sister, after his program. "It looks just like our vacation home in Donegal," Elizabeth said after looking around the wooded area they had walked into. The cottage he had created stood in front of them, and he could hear the sound of water and birds down from where the lake would be. A cool breeze blew through the area, although it wasn't what Michael considered cold. "I modeled it after the cottage, had to come up with some kind of inspiration." Michael said as he walked up to the porch. "Computer, widen porch by another six feet, and place an Irish folk band in the corner, playing appropriate music. Add a hand lettered sign next to them that reads...'Taking all reasonable requests'. "Link program to the ships music database and allow access to any non electric instruments. Until additional requests are made, limit song list to Irish vocal and dance music." Michael said, and watched as a Irish folk quartet appeared, smiled and started playing. Elizabeth rolled her eyes, but still smiled as she tapped her foot slightly. Michael just winked back and keep moving. "Computer double the size of the cottage, expanding pre-existing rooms to fit with the following exceptions, add an additional sitting room, with proper furnishings, next to the kitchen, as well as a foyer, and a coat room. In the game room, add a pool table, dart board, ping pong table and comfortable chairs and couches, allow occupants to change and add to the room as desired. Stock kitchen with appropriate food and drink, and refill as necessary." Michael said, and watched as the house and surrounding woods morphed and changed to accommodate the new size of the house. "Computer, in front of the house place one long heavy wooden dining table with bench seating," Michael said, watched as the smooth finished table appeared, "Computer, increase table size by 20%," Michael added to get the table the right size for the various people he planned on inviting, and hoped that they would be able to make it on short notice. "Computer scattered through the area, place small tables surrounded by various styles of comfortable chairs, two and three per table. Place tables no closer than 20 feet together." Michael said. Once the final changes had been made he turned to his sister. "So, how does it look?" "It has promise, now to see if you can get anyone to show up." Elizabeth said with a grin. "We shall see, you wander around and make any changes you think need to be made, add what food you think would be good, and relax, I'll send out the invitations. Computer arch." Michael said, turning once he saw his sister snap him a mock salute. Walking up to the arch, Michael access his personal database. "Computer take message for multiple recipients to read as followed. === To Friends and Comrades, It has come to my attention that we have worked very hard in the last few days and deserve a time to rest and truly get to know the newer additions to the crew, of which I am one. To that end, dinner will be served on holodeck 4 at 1930 hours tonight courses to be determined by whim of the attendees, come as early and stay as late as you wish, bring a friend and have some fun. Take this time to relax and unwind, if you can not attend this gathering of friends, you will be sorely missed, although I promise more will be planned in the future. We shall have as much fun as our imaginations (and Starfleet rules and regulations) permit us to. I hope to see you all soon. Signed, You Friendly neighborhood Irishman, Michael O'Connor === "Computer display this message on the office and personal terminals of the following people," Michael said before listing off the names. NRPG: The invitation will be sent to all PC and SPCs on the ship (including the Captain and the XO), including Marine, and Fight Officers. Basically, if you have a character you want in the party, they were probably invited assuming they could be considered senior staff. RPG: Michael sent the message and got rid of the arch, wandering back to the cottage to see what his little sister was up to and to wait on the guests. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4, FSXO 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath, 1855) The holodeck doors opened and Steph stuck her head in and looked around. Nodding, she entered and allowed the doors to close behind her. With her basket of goodies held in one hand, she walked slowly up the path toward the cottage enjoying the scenery and mountain air. Reaching the door, she knocked a few times before opening the door and sticking her head in. "Hello?" She called, "I was told there was a party going on here. Brought some goodies if anyone is interested." (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1858) Michael and Elizabeth were sitting in the cottage in the woods on the holodeck, the place set for a party. So far no one had showed up, but it was still early, and Michael was hoping that at least some of the people that were there last time would manage to be there this time. He nearly jumped when he heard a knock on the door, the a voice. "Hello?" Rath called, "I was told there was a party going on here. Brought some goodies if anyone is interested." Michael stood up, Elizabeth hot on his heels to meet the person at the door. "Come in, come in," Michael said with his usual Irish accent and smile, welcoming the blond officer he hadn't meet before. "I don't think we've meet, but then I've only been here for a week and a half, or there abouts. "I'm Michael O'Connor, your friendly neighborhood chief of operations." Michael said, and before he could do it himself his sister spoke up. "I'm Elizabeth O'Connor, Mikey's sister," Elizabeth said, extending her hand to the older officer and flashing her a bright smile, managing to glance at the basket of goodies in the officers hand. (Reply Rath, room for more obviously, but I'll move on to the other introductions so as to keep everyone going.) The moved away from the door and into the lounge music from the porch drifting in the slightly opened windows. The cottages curtains wafted slightly in the breeze and smells from the kitchen filled the house. Some other people had drifted in, officers from Gamma watch that were already awake, as well as some others from Alpha. He hoped that some from Beta watch might drift through to at least grab some food during the meal break. He heard the door open once again and foot steps approaching him so he turned. "Hey, Mike, I like what you've done with the place. Looking forward to a great time tonight?" Joran asked as he approached. "I hope so," Michael said with a grin, "I figure if the last party was that much fun and completely an accident, if I plan things a little it could work out even better. And from the reports I've seen, we all need a break. The crews too big to all fit on a holodeck, but I think we need to find a way to give the crewman a break if only for a day." Michael said (Reply Brownlee, again, room for more) Rana noticed that Elizabeth was there too. "Elizabeth, nice to see you again! Having a good time on the Paladin?" she asked. Elizabeth looked up from where she was setting down a tray of food. "Rana! I'm doing better now that I know you people know how to have at least a semblance of fun," she said, brushing a lock of her long brown hair back over her ear. She missed the days before the war, before Earth had become so cold and angry. Her parents, like any good Irish couple, had taken their work seriously, but when they were done for the day, knew how to let work go and relax. Elizabeth missed the music and the gathering of friends and family. She missed Mary, her older sister, who she hoped was still safe on Caldos IV. The weekends had been the best, after church on Sunday, there was always some gathering of people somewhere, with food and music performed by whom ever brought their instruments. (Reply Rana, again, room for more, but I'm going to jump a head to Sarah's post to keep things going. I can move back if people want to continue and or start conversations back in this time stamp.) (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4, FSXO 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath, 1859) "Come in, come in," Rath heard someone say with an Irish accent. Stepping completely through the door Rath saw a rather tall man and young lady heading her way. "I don't think we've meet, but then I've only been here for a week and a half, or there about's. I'm Michael O'Connor, your friendly neighborhood chief of operations," The man said introducing himself. "I'm Elizabeth O'Connor, Mikey's sister,"the young lady said, extending her hand. Rath smiled and took the offered hand with a firm grip. "I'm 1st Lieutenant Stephiea Rath, Flight Squadron Executive Officer," Rath said with a smile as she lifted the cover off the basket so Elizabeth could see the fresh muffins and rolls in the basket. She looked back up at Michael noting that he was a good bit taller than she was. "Well now I can put a face to that voice that keeps coming over my fighters comm unit," Steph said, her smile broadening. ~He's looks to be about my age too, and already Chief of Operations on a Meredith class. Pretty impressive.~ "So how do you like being the one responsible to keep everything running smoothly?" (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 19:00) Joran and Rana strolled into the holodeck, arm in arm. Joran was sure to bring along his Vulcan lyre this time, as it had to do with an announcement that he was going to make. When the path narrowed, he took the lead, saying, "I'll show you the way, Imzadi. I remember this path from the last time." However, he noticed a few changes. It seemed O'Connor had added a few tables and expanded the cottage. ::It seems, Imzadi,:: Rana told Joran, ::They've prepared for a great party.:: ::I think you might be right.:: As they approached the cottage, they saw that quite a few people had already shown up, and the holographic band was swinging, with the traditional Irish folk music Joran was so fond of. As he entered the house, Joran spotted Michael. "Hey, Mike, I like what you've done with the place. Looking forward to a great time tonight?" (reply O'Connor) Rana noticed that Elizabeth was there too. "Elizabeth, nice to see you again! Having a good time on the Paladin?" she asked. (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 19:06) "Hey, Mike, I like what you've done with the place. Looking forward to a great time tonight?" Joran asked as he approached. "I hope so," Michael said with a grin, "I figure if the last party was that much fun and completely an accident, if I plan things a little it could work out even better. And from the reports I've seen, we all need a break. The crews too big to all fit on a holodeck, but I think we need to find a way to give the crewman a break if only for a day." Michael said. "Definitely. After all, you were there when I had that little snafu during the battle and decided to go all heroic later on? Ah well, I hope to relax quite a bit. I brought my lyre this time, and I hope to maybe do a performance after supper. It has to do with an announcement I have later on." (reply O'Connor, room for more) Rana noticed that Elizabeth was there too. "Elizabeth, nice to see you again! Having a good time on the Paladin?" she asked. Elizabeth looked up from where she was setting down a tray of food. "Rana! I'm doing better now that I know you people know how to have at least a semblance of fun." "Well, on this side of the battle lines, we still know how to unwind after a battle. And I'd hope so. I wouldn't want my child born in such austere conditions as the ones you described." (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Sickbay - Ensign SG CMO Nissa Whetari - 1920) "I really don't see why attending the party is so important to you, Lieutenant. While, yes, you no longer appear contagious...after the last mission I am not quite comfortable allowing you among non-Bolians until I am sure that this influenza won't spread to anyone else." Nissa explained. The Bolian's eyes focused on Nissa, searching for a way to convince the CMO otherwise. "You've completed a full panel of tests, Doctor Whetari, and you said that you were sure that you had come up with a treatment and that the virus wouldn't spread to any non-Bolians." "Lieutenant, I am just not sure that it is appropriate for you to attend this gathering, as you and the other Bolian crewmembers are supposed to remain in Sickbay until 0600 hours tomorrow." Nissa replied, knowing that her resolve was weakening. ~Fair enough, since keeping them until tomorrow is just a paranoid precaution - you could let them go tonight,~ she thought. Nissa had planned to curl up with a good story this evening, though she knew that she should try to socialize with the crew a bit. "Maybe if you or one of the nurses accompanied me?" The Bolian woman asked. "If you felt at any time that I posed a danger to the others, you could bring me right back to Sickbay, I promise. We...the party starts in five minutes. Please?" Sighing while looking up at the ceiling, Nissa grabbed her tricorder. "Fine. I will accompany you, Lieutenant. One more full scan before we go." Nissa said, shaking her head. (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign SG CMO Nissa Whetari - 1940) After separating to change into civilian clothing, Nissa and Lt. Rilares met in the corridor near holodeck four. The Bolian woman was wearing a flowing calf-length dress with swirls of purple and cream. Nissa had chosen a low-necked black dress with a lavender accent. With a quick scan of her medical tricorder, Nissa checked the status of Lt. Rilares. "You are still ill, though you should be feeling much better." Nissa said, closing the tricorder. "The treatment appears to be progressing quickly and you will be able to resume normal duty tomorrow." "Thank you, Doctor. Shall we go in?" Rilares replied with a slight nod. "Yes, Lieutenant, that sounds like a good idea." Nissa and Lt. Rilares walked into the party and looked to see who else was there. (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Michael Ian O'Connor and Elizabeth O'Connor - 1942) Dinner had been served only a few minutes ago, and Michael had made sure there was plenty for everybody. Food and drink had been laid out on the big long table, and people were still taking their share and moving off toward smalled tables with friends and companions to sit and talk. Some had pulled a few of the smaller tables and chairs together to make larger seating arrangements. He turned when he heard the sound of the holodeck door opening and shutting a slight ways down the path. He saw the new Chief medical officer and to his surprise, his Bolian Beta shift Supervisor, who was currently down with the Bolian-flu. Moving down the path he greeted both of them. "Doctor Whetari, Lieutenant Rilares, I'm glad both of you could make it. Lieutenant, I hope you are feeling better than you were earlier. You are here just in time for dinner, so help yourself and enjoy the food, my sister is around here somewhere helping with drinks, at least that was the plan, although if you don't feel like waiting the kitchen is in the back of the cottage, should be plenty of everything." Michael said as he led them both up the path and toward the gathering of friends and comrades. The party was turning out quite well, in his opinion, and he hoped it continued to go smoothly, they all needed to unwind. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign SG CMO Nissa Whetari - 1943) "Doctor Whetari, Lieutenant Rilares, I'm glad both of you could make it. Lieutenant, I hope you are feeling better than you were earlier. You are here just in time for dinner, so help yourself and enjoy the food, my sister is around here somewhere helping with drinks, at least that was the plan, although if you don't feel like waiting the kitchen is in the back of the cottage, should be plenty of everything." Ensign O'Connor explained as he led Nissa and Lt. Rilares down the path to a charming cottage. Rilares nodded to O'Connor with a smile as she headed to a long table laden with food and drink. "Thank you for the invitation, Ensign O'Connor." Nissa said, giving him a friendly nod. It was her first real chance to spend off-duty time with her fellow officers, as her last visit to Ten Forward had been rather uneventful and they had previously been so busy on the mission. "I think that a little rest and relaxation will be good for everyone after the last mission." (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1945) "Thank you for the invitation, Ensign O'Connor." Nissa said, giving him a friendly nod. "I think that a little rest and relaxation will be good for everyone after the last mission." "I fully agree with you. You've seen the reports on your end, there have been a lot more scuffles among the enlisted ranks, nothing more than minor injuries, but enough to cause concern. I'm hoping that we can start here and find some other ways to help relieve stress ship wide. Hopefully this next patrol will prove uneventful and people can relax a little. Please keep me and Commander Capps informed about any escalation in the severity of the injuries, or anything you might recommend in your professional capacity." Michael said as he led the Doctor and his officer up the path. (Reply Whetari) "Thank you very much. However you can call me Michael, we are both department heads and ensigns here, and she out ranks me," Michael said smiling at his lieutenant. "Tonight, however, for as long as our duties allow we are on vacation, so we should probably leave the work talk in the corridor or my sister will try and injure me for ruining the party with work." Michael said with a smile. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign SG Nissa Whetari - 1945) "I fully agree with you. You've seen the reports on your end, there have been a lot more scuffles among the enlisted ranks, nothing more than minor injuries, but enough to cause concern. I'm hoping that we can start here and find some other ways to help relieve stress ship wide. Hopefully this next patrol will prove uneventful and people can relax a little. Please keep me and Commander Capps informed about any escalation in the severity of the injuries, or anything you might recommend in your professional capacity." O'Connor said as he walked Nissa and Lt. Rilares up the path. "I have noticed - Dr. Keller made some notes regarding the recent increase in minor injuries before the mission began, and I saw at least 10 patients yesterday with injuries that most likely resulted from fights or scuffles. I could only get a few of them to openly admit it, though, and most of them were resistant to my recommendation for counseling. Only half of them have reported to their counseling sessions thus far. Beyond working the counseling staff even harder or organizing more morale events like this, I cannot think of any recommendations off the top of my head, though I will be sure to inform you and Commander Capps if the incidents or injuries escalate, Ensign." Nissa explained. The restless feeling on the ship was palpable and Nissa had seen the results of frustrated and emotionally-drained crew members. Since the communities on Aldea were small and tight-knit, Nissa had never experienced such an environment contained - she'd seen fights and restlessness, but never on such a scale and to such an extent. "Thank you very much. However you can call me Michael, we are both department heads and ensigns here, and she out ranks me," O'Connor said as he smiled at his lieutenant. "Tonight, however, for as long as our duties allow we are on vacation, so we should probably leave the work talk in the corridor or my sister will try and injure me for ruining the party with work." He said with a smile. "True enough, Michael." Nissa said as she returned his smile. "Now...where is the chocolate and the bacon?" She continued jokingly, smiling as she grabbed a plate and made her way to the plate of back bacon, saucing it with a mustard and whiskey concoction. Heaping her plate with sauteed leeks, mashed potatoes, salmon cakes, and glazed carrots, Nissa balanced the plate in the nook of her elbow while picking up a small bowl of Plomeek soup and grabbing a glass of Kava juice. She noticed a small plate of rich chocolate cake and, after looking about perplexed for a moment, set her Kava juice down and balanced the smaller plate on the wrist of her already laden arm. Picking up her Kava juice, she set forth for one of the tables. (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - OPS Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1950) Elizabeth was having a great time at the party. It was taking her mind off of other things. She walked around outside. She had taken her shoes, and socks off a while back. The grass against her feet felt so soft she couldn't resist doing it. In her right hand she held a plate with different types of food on it. It also included a few Irish dishes that Elizabeth had never tried before. In the other hand she held onto a cup with a very interesting liquid inside of it. She was finding it hard to eat with no hands left. The party had already grown a fairly large crowd. Elizabeth saw that Patrick and his sister also names Elizabeth was attempting to talk to everyone but Ensign Knightley had not ran into the two yet. She spotted Ensign O'Conner talking to the Chief Medical Officer. Elizabeth had a free time now, so she walked over to them. "Ensign O'Conner," Elizabeth called out, "this is a great party. I am having a great time." (reply O'Conner) "How is your sister?" (reply O'Conner) "Where is she?" (posted by Calvin Capps) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1952) Michael has just finished talking with Nissa when he heard his name called. "Ensign O'Connor," Elizabeth called out, "this is a great party. I am having a great time." Turning around Michael spotted Elizabeth Knightly, "Good, we all needed a break, I'm glad to know you're enjoying yourself." Michael said with a smile. "How is your sister?" "She's doing ok, she'll bounce back, although I'm still going to try and get to her to talk to the counsellor." Michael said, the smile drifting from his face. "Where is she?" "I think she challenged one of the Senior Engineers from Gamma shift to a game a darts. Although she could have beaten him by now, she's had a lot of practice." Michael said with a renewed smile. "Have you seen the Commander or the Captain here yet, I was hoping that they would show up for the party." (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - OPS Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1953) "Have you seen the Commander or the Captain here yet, I was hoping that they would show up for the party." Michael asked. The question brought Elizabeth's mind to wonder back to the other night where she and Calvin had a heated argument. In the two days passed it hadn't gotten any better. They were still falling apart. It seemed that the relationship was at a stand still. "I haven't seen the Captain." Elizabeth said. (reply Michael) "Um.." Elizabeth said softly and then lifted the glass to her mouth. She took a small sip of her drink. "I don't think the Commander will make it." Elizabeth was hoping that Michael would press the matter on. She really wanted to talk to some one about the situation. Maybe she should go see a counsellor her self. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - TAC/SC Kerge - 19:54) The security chief had thought he had heard it all but this belied belief, a party in the holodeck! What next...a combat simulation in the Arboretum? The big Klingon sighed in a manner only Klingon`s ever did, it was nothing like a Human sigh, it was more of a grunt caused by a sharp exhale of breath due to disbelief as the doors opened up & in he walked....or rather stomped. It was clear that whoever had organized this little soiree had put a lot of effort into the program matrix but it was never particularly easy to please a Klingon of course & Kerge was no different. His time in Starfleet had simply failed to 'humanize' him or soften his tough interior & he always found himself hankering after conflict of some kind or another. It was an accepted fact that the last few days had been stressful to most of the Paladin`s crew but to Kerge, it had all been exhilarating, it had tested his mettle so to speak, pushed his limits & lets face it, that was what almost every single Klingon this side of the Gamma Quadrant positively thrived on. Did Klingon`s ever frown? The hard ridges on their foreheads made it difficult to tell for they appeared to be frowning all the time. If they did frown though, Kerge was frowning now as he moved amongst the assembled officers in the holodeck as they drank, ate & chatted aimlessly with one another. In an effort to appear less confrontational though, Kerge pulled at his tunic & then attempted a smile at one of the crewman nearby. The jagged, toothy show of acceptability however was utterly lost on the woman as her own forehead broke into a frown also, completely unsure now as to why the security chief was now looking so aggressively towards her! Kerge sighed again, then he turned his attention elsewhere which just happened to be the bar at the far side of the holo-simulation. The thought of Klingon ale pushed aside any misgivings he had had about being there, holo-orientated or not Klingon ale always tasted good to him so with more than a little gusto, he made his way towards the fresh faced bartender to immediately make his requirements known. "Klingon Ale", said Kerge just as the two crewman on either side of him moved slowly further away at the blunt, acidic quality of his demand & the sheer lack of a please in his request. Kerge turned towards each of them, the Pseudo frown appeared again.... "What!", cried the Klingon, "have I said something to displease you!", he added. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Michael Ian O'Connor - 1955) "I haven't seen the Captain." Elizabeth said. "That's too bad, I was hoping she would make it. Any word on Commander Capps?" Michael asked. He knew the ensign and the Commander were a couple so he hoped if she was here, he wouldn't be too far behind. "Um.." Elizabeth said softly and then lifted the glass to her mouth. She took a small sip of her drink. "I don't think the Commander will make it." Now, Michael had been in his fair share of relationships over the years, as had his close friends, and while he wasn't overly familiar with Ensign Knightley's mannerisms, he had a feeling something was wrong. The question was, did he feel like pushing things. "Why don't we go have a seat, so you can put that plate down, would hate for it to tip and all that food to go to waste, even if it is just replicated." Michael said, leading his department deputy over to one of the empty tables still isolated by itself from the noise of the party. (Reply Knightley) "Elizabeth, is it ok if I call you Elizabeth, is everything all right? I'm no Betazed nor a counsellor, but it seems like my mention of the Commander upset you. If you don't want to talk tell me to shut up, but I'm your department head, and I hope your friend, so if I can offer any degree of help, I will." Michael said putting his own plate down on the table between them (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - OPS Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1956) "Why don't we go have a seat, so you can put that plate down, would hate for it to tip and all that food to go to waste, even if it is just replicated." Michael said, leading his department deputy over to one of the empty tables still isolated by itself from the noise of the party. "Alright then." She smiled and let Michael lead her to a table. Once there she placed the plate on to the hard surface, but kept the cup in her hands. "Elizabeth, is it ok if I call you Elizabeth, is everything all right? I'm no Betazed nor a counsellor, but it seems like my mention of the Commander upset you. If you don't want to talk tell me to shut up, but I'm your department head, and I hope your friend, so if I can offer any degree of help, I will." Michael said putting his own plate down on the table between them. "Yes, it is fine you call me Elizabeth as long as I can call you Michael." She said with a nervous laugh. It was odd to her that a few seconds ago she wanted to talk about her and the First Officer to some one, but now she was faced with it and she didn't feel like it anymore. "You're right. There is something wrong, but I don't know if it would be right for us to talk about it." (reply O'Conner) "WAIT...Calvin and I had a fight two days ago. Since then we barely spoke to each other. It doesn't make any sense. We were fine, then out of no where this happens. Since then we have grown apart so much. It has taken such a long time to get where we are, and then in two days it takes up back to like the first week we started dating." She loaded everything off on to Michael. She stopped talking and looked up at him. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Holodeck 4 - COPS/3O Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1958) "Elizabeth, is it ok if I call you Elizabeth, is everything all right? I'm no Betazed nor a counsellor, but it seems like my mention of the Commander upset you. If you don't want to talk tell me to shut up, but I'm your department head, and I hope your friend, so if I can offer any degree of help, I will." Michael said putting his own plate down on the table between them. "Yes, it is fine you call me Elizabeth as long as I can call you Michael." She said with a nervous laugh. "You're right. There is something wrong, but I don't know if it would be right for us to talk about it." "If you don't want to talk then we won't, so long as it's not effecting your duties, I can't force the issue." Michael said and made a motion to stand. "WAIT...Calvin and I had a fight two days ago. Since then we barely spoke to each other. It doesn't make any sense. We were fine, then out of no where this happens. Since then we have grown apart so much. It has taken such a long time to get where we are, and then in two days it takes up back to like the first week we started dating." She loaded everything off on to Michael. She stopped talking and looked up at him. Michael sat back down and looked over at Elizabeth, "Now, I'm not an expert in relationships nor exactly qualified to give advice, but nothing comes out of nowhere. Now, I'm not saying it should be as bad as it is, that's probably due to the amount of stress that you and the Commander are under. I'm not going to ask what the fight was about, but it probably wasn't about forgetting to do the dishes, just keep things in perspective, you love him, and I can only assume he loves you too, you just have to try and work through this, deal with what ever issues you have to and try and accept them. Just remember to figure out what you're not willing to compromise on and go from there, it's an equal relationship, he can't demand from you what he's not willing to give himself, and visa versa," Michael said. (Reply Knightley) "I'm not sure how much help I can really be, but if you need to talk my door is always open," Michael said with a friendly smile. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1959) Elizabeth kept her head down toward the table, but rolled her eyes so she would be able to look at Michael. She smiled. "Thanks." It hadn't really changed the situation, but it did make her feel better. She was at a party and she should be having fun. "Thanks again Michael. Listen, I am sorry I brought your party down. Lets go have fun." (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 4 - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 20:00) Once dinner was over, and everyone had a chance to digest and relax for a bit, Joran went to the porch, and made an announcement. "If anyone is interested, Rana and I would like to perform for you, and we have an announcement to make." (reply any at the party) Joran got himself comfortable near where the band was set up, and sat down with his Vulcan lyre, and played the opening chords to a love song. Rana then began to sing: "Hear how the wind begins to whisper. See how the leaves go streaming by. Smell how the velvet rain is falling, Out where the fields are warm and dry. Now is the time to run inside and stay. Now is the time to find a hideaway Where we can stay." Joran played a short interlude, then he himself began to sing his solo: "Soon it's gonna rain. I can see it. Soon it's gonna rain. I can tell. Soon it's gonna rain. What are we gonna do? Soon it's gonna rain. I can feel it. Soon it's gonna rain. I can tell. Soon it's gonna rain. What'll we do with you? We'll find four limbs of a tree. We'll build four walls and a floor. We'll bind it over with leaves, And run inside to stay." Rana then joined in for the end, beginning to echo during the 3rd and 2nd to last verses: "Then we'll let it rain. We'll not feel it. Then we'll let it rain, Rain pell-mell. And we'll not complain If it never stops at all. We'll live and love Within our own four walls. We'll find four limbs of a tree. We'll build four walls and a floor. We'll bind it over with leaves, And run inside to stay. Soon it's gonna rain. Come run inside to stay! Soon it's gonna rain. For soon it's gonna rain. I can see it. I can feel it. Run inside and... Then we'll let it rain. We'll not feel it. Then we'll let it rain. Ran pell-mell. And we'll not complain - Happy ending... If it never stops at all. Then we'll let it rain. Why complain? We'll live and love within our walls. Happily we'll live and love, No cares at all. Happily we'll live and love Within our castle walls." Joran played the last few chords of the song, and smiled as it ended. (reply any at party) Joran stood up and spoke. "That was 'Soon It's Gonna Rain' from The Fantasticks, for which I will be holding auditions for tomorrow for whoever is interested." (posted by SPencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Deck 5 Personal Quarters - 2200) Matrix had a long day and was looking forward to some needed rest. The crew was enjoying some down time. Much needed given current events, the last mission and some interesting personnel issues. His "little project" as he liked to refer to it was on hold for a week or so while the crew was busy with other assignments. "Computer, lights out in 3 minutes." said Matrix has he turned down his covers and sat at the edge of his bed. Tomorrow was suppose to be another "down" day, but he wanted to get started on some changes in engineering and get back to work on his project. The other engineering officers were putting in time on the project and it was time for an update. Matrix thought, "Hopefully the Captain and First Officer will appreciate the efforts...I hope this works." Matrix rubbed his head and face. He noted the scar on the left side of this neck. It reminded him of the horror he had endured not long ago. The physical pain was gone, but the emotions it brought back had to be choked at times. Matrix smiled at himself, dismissing the memory and turned in. Moments later his quarters was dark and he was resting peacefully. (posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== Hope you enjoyed!