USS Galaxy: The Next Generation Sim Log
Stardate: 60806.22 - 60806.28 |
Logs |
"Between a Cat and a Hard Place" Part 2: Lieutenant Commander Spa'an, Sciences USS Miranda Shuttle Bay Three, USS Miranda The miniature caitain looked miffed at that remark. "Nyet, Comrade Nathan appeared next to Khatrowen, looking inside the fighter. He Seeing the diminutive Caitan's reaction to his theory, Th'Kh'ss K'aa ~And that was the good news. I wonder how he'll react to the bad.~ Despite the cursing, the scientists and engineers seemed to be "Unfortunately." Nara replied. She mainly read reports, and started a Chris returned to the group with a curious look on his face. He had "Hrnnnnssss...that'sss the plan", K'aa replied, eyes still fixed on an In typical Vulcan fashion, Spa'an and Shaav went to work on the ~And now the bad news~, K'aa thought as he headed to the suttlebay's The Gorn curled a clawed index finger at the concerned pilot and his Le'on, at this point, was sure that someone somewhere (namely Q) was "Quite the contrary", the large reptilian lied, thanking his Maker "Well, Ah sure as hell ain't gonna wear that damn thing!" Nathan "I'm open to other optionsss, but ssso far thisss isss all that could The pilot gave K'aa a sideways, dirty look, then split his time Seeing the odd pair leave, the Gorn was quire pleased with the ================================== Nathan Everett came out of the changing room with as much grace and He then waddled to the fighter as quickly as possible. It had to be a waddle - the extra mass on his back end made normal Le'on didn't make a single noise, even when Everett struggled to cram Could the propulsion systems be made to operate? Can the Fusion Sooner than he would like, K'aa would face a short order of cold, "Revenge - Don't Leave Home Without It" Lt. Commander Th'Khiss K'aa, Chief of Operations Lt. JG Le'on ********** It had been a long time in coming, and Le'on was finally ready. Vengeance would be his. He knew when K'aa went down to the holodeck. Sometimes it was for With fangs bared in a feral smile, Le'on let out an evil Caitian There'd be hell to pay later. But this, in Le'on's opinion, was K'aa unknowingly found himself in another corridor of the ship.... ===== Vulcan, K'aa mused, was entirely underestimated as a tourist Replicator mass was adequate, part stores for the Aerospace Group was Eyes down on the PADD containing the day's business Yeoman M'Rel had =Decompression in thirty seconds.= "Eh?" Glaring yellow eyes looked up expecting to see the Operations ~Perhaps that nap wasss too long~ K'aa reflected, completely stunned =Command code invalid. Decompression in twenty seconds.= A loud clicking growl now filled the small airlock, overwhelming the =Decompression in fifteen seconds.= Le'on had followed K'aa the entire way, silently snickering at his =Decompression in ten seconds.= "Le'on! The manual controllsss are jammed on thisss end", K'aa =Decompression in five seconds.= "Khatrowen! Can you hear me? Khatrowen?" The reptile's large yellow "Ah what da hell..." Le'on said with a big grin. He pushed a button "KHATROOOOOWEEEEEEEENNNNN!" "AND THAT IS VHY YOU DON'T SCREW WITH DA CAT!" Le'on howled, pumping a ==== ~Eyes closed~ ~Lungs exhaled~ ~Fetal position to protect organs~ ~Ninety seconds.~ ~Ninety seconds.~ ~All I have.~ ~Sensors will pick me up.~ ~They'd %$#@*&% better!~ It was after about ten seconds of bitterly cold free-fall when K'aa "You pathetic hors d'evourssss! You furry little vermin! "K'aa =You do not have the authority to end this simulation.= "Computer, Code K'aa yat gau sai baak. END THISSS SSSIMULATION NOW!" =Command code invalid."= "Hraaaaassss! Keirsss veul sssaillaaa %$#@*&%, Khatrowen! Sssassan "KHATROOOOOWEEEEEENNNNN!" All the normally effective roaring, biting, kicking and clawing of ~Holodeck Program... Twenty Credits. Digital Camera... Fifty OOC: What happens when three writers get sick of being serious all "Sam Widdlestein Strikes Again!" Samantha Widdlestein, Mistress of the Holodeck and a very special holo-guest! **** USS Galaxy "The desert wind blew hot around them, the sand swirling around our Samantha stopped reading her notes. "I know you said this historically "Um, the sky is blue," Aristi replied, pointing skyward. "What more do "Something more ... I dunno. Awe inspiring?" "Okay okay, fine. Pink didn't really exist in this time period though; "Cerulean?" "Sure, why not." "Perfect. Okay, so setting is in place. Our heroine should be here in "How about on the crest of that sand dune?" Aristi asked, pointing to "That'll work. Computer, load hero two point five." Samantha smiled as a holographic representation of J. Andrus Suder Clapping a hand over her mouth, Aristi tried and failed to suppress a Sam frowned. "What?" "What's up with the pose?" the older woman asked, mimicking the "What about it? I've thoroughly researched it and it was a very manly "What...what is this?" the XO of the Galaxy asked as she stepped "It was actually my invitation but that's not important right now," "He's eerily familiar. I'd say he's an uncannily accurate replica of "Mr. Suder said I could use his image," Samantha said with a winning "He's a...remarkable copy of Mr. Suder. Nice outfit, but...what's up "It's an authentic .. oh, never mind. Put your leg down, Andy." "And...wait! You said it was your invitation, not Aristi's? So it was Aristi turned away from her own thorough examination of the Suder "Whatever." Iniara crossed her arms and frowned at Sam. "So what is "Nope, this is a chapter from my new holo novel. SO much better. "What? I don't think so!" "Oh please, we're all women here," Sam said rolling her eyes. "Don't "What does that have to do with anything?" Iniara asked. "And besides, "Just go hug him then," The girl replied. "I need to get the angle right." "Why don't you ask Aristi to do it instead? I'm sure she'd be more Aristi shrugged, then stepped towards the still frozen man. "Sure, why "You looked fine to me," Iniara said, obviously not impressed. "No, no; I'm too tall, and besides I'm not dressed right. But you're perfect." Iniara sighed, looking from Sam to Aristi, and then back again. In the "Deal." "Pay attention ladies; I'm only going to do this once." Iniara exhaled "Ooh, that's perfect. Aren't they perfect?" Aristi crossed her arms, examining the pair critically. "Hm, not too "Oh that's no problem. Computer, run program!" Sam yelled. Iniara started to reply when suddenly Holo-Andy came to life, dipped "Woah! Computer, freeze program!" Iniara exclaimed, pulling herself "It's a holo-romance," Sam said in her 'duh' voice. "How else are you "Um, by not starting the program in the middle like that. It's "Oh, please," Samantha wheedled in her 'please auntie voice.' "You "Right." Iniara crossed her arms and glared at the pair. After several Sam saluted. "Yes, sir!" "Good. Okay, computer, reset program and begin." Iniara exhaled and "Sir yes sir," Aristi mumbled under her breath as she watched **** Andrus Suder entered and stood beside Samantha with a perplexed expression. To be honest, he hadn't expected Sam to use his image for quite this Still ... "Uh, Sam," Andy said out loud, as he watched the holo version of "That's what I'm saying," Iniara said, her voice muffled against Andy shrugged. He didn't really want to work on reorganizing the Samantha looked over her notes. "Dramatic rescue of heroine by hero "Hidden secret love child?" Iniara echoed. She looked at Andy. "What "You should see some of the books she's requested," Andrus replied. Meanwhile, Aristi had for the moment lost interest, choosing instead "Hmm...how about we move ahead to the, um, date part?" she suggested, "Er, no, let's skip that," Sam said. She didn't think Aristi quite got "Let's skip to the fight against the villain. The set is amazing in that one." Iniara raised an eyebrow. "A fight, huh." She could probably get into "Sounds good to me," Aristi interjected, poking a few spots on her "Yeah, I guess so," Iniara confirmed. She shrugged and looked at Andy. "Computer, run villain program," Samantha called. The scenery changed to reveal an odd cross between a frontier town Iniara laughed out loud this time. "What's up with the flute?" "It's dramatic," Sam said. "And what's up with the architecture?" Aristi followed up. "I thought Samantha pouted. "You both have no artistic vision." There was suddenly an immense burst of flames for sheer dramatic value Startled, Iniara's head snapped towards the flame. She opened her Andy groaned. "You had to pick him?" Tall and saturnine, in black clothing and a long black coat and a "That would be me," Samantha said. "Because Andy called you a chicken." "What?!" Andy squawked, in one of his unmanliest moments. "And because he's taking your woman," the girl continued. "I gladly yield to a superior enemy," Andrus replied, pushing Iniara The hologram tilted its head to one side and studied Iniara for a "A man with very healthy instincts," Andy shot back. "You left me - willingly - for this?" Holo-Victor frowned at Iniara as Iniara looked at him, trying to determine the best response to the Perhaps this would all be over sooner if she just sucked it up and Her expression softened and she looked down at her feet. Clasping her Andy snorted. Holo-Victor rounded on Andy. "You weren't man enough to take her "Thank god, it's not the real thing," the Betazoid muttered. "Okay, "Duel?" Holo-Victor shook his head. "Oh no, shootin' is too good for Andrus looked at Samantha. "I think I hate you." "I get that a lot," the girl said unfazed. Iniara resisted the urge to laugh out loud at the situation; she Holo-Victor paused, looked at her for a moment, and then handed her "Does anyone else feel like I've just become the villain here?" Andy asked. "It's perfect!" Sam said, enthusiastically clapping her hands. "A Holo-Victor paused and looked around at the rest of the people "Don't get too comfortable there, Skippy," Sam said. "I'll turn you "Excuse me?" Holo-Victor's frown deepened as he looked around the Samantha sighed and pulled out her computer PADD that was interfaced "Who," Holo-Victor started over, "exactly, are you people? Are you... "Well..." Iniara's voice faded out as a random thought came to her: he A second thought snapped her back to the present. Even though the At that, Aristi smiled and stepped forward, offering her hand. "Warhope," he replied, shaking her hand firmly. "Champion Warhope. If As they spoke, Iniara took a step towards Sam and asked in a low "He's like cut from a romance novel," Sam replied. She saw Iniara's "Tall, dark and handsome I understand," Iniara commented as she Sam rolled her eyes again. "Because then she can teach him how to be a Heedless of the conversation taking place on the sidelines, "I'd like that," Iniara replied with a demure smile, though it wasn't Andy looked at the scene playing out at him - had to briefly admire "Good." He clenched his fists, the knuckles popping under the pressure "He's right over...there?" The cheer in Aristi's voice died out Sam frowned down at her outline. With the new twist in her storyline, "Let's do the scene with the "summer picnic," Samantha said with "Great..." Iniara groaned as she looked from the pair of women to the TBC...?
"Doubts and Uncertainties" *** Sharzhevashi zh'Rin stood in the corridor. Before her, a door leading The recent days had all blurred together. Since she had met with her And now, Shi was uncertain of her own future. She had a duty to her Her time off-shift, when not fulfilling her duties as a member of the Realizing she'd been standing before the door for several minutes just "...a moment," came a muffled voice from within. Several moments passed before the door slid aside to reveal Artemis Shi followed the young half-Vulcan into the quarters. It was always "Sorry about the mess," Artemis said as she noted Shi's look around. The Andorian smiled. "I am well," she said. "I had seen little of "Don't worry," Artemis said. "Had to get up to answer the door "Somewhat," Shi said. "It is mostly confusion over what I should be doing." "Well, I know I'd want to spend time with Korazei," Artemis said. "He Shi smiled. "He is and being near him always makes my heart start "Maybe," Artemis began with a sidelong look to Shi, "when you can get "For the future, I like the idea," Shi said. "For the present, I Artemis grinned. "That's what friends are for," she said. "If you're "I would be delighted," Shi said. "Just contact me when you are ready." "I should probably start getting myself ready for the grilling," Shi laughed. "Then I shall remain until you have to leave." They chatted amiably as Artemis began gathering her discarded off: I almost titled it "I am Jack's Scowling Insomnia." I love Fight Club :) "Scowling Insomnia" **** USS Galaxy The room is still except for the stars passing by outside your window, You've trained your body to endure a lack of sleep but insomnia still Despite your best efforts, you have caught up on all your paperwork. And, sure, you could do a hundred more sit-ups but you don't really There is nothing to do but wait until you can fall asleep and you You lie on your bed and scowl up at the ceiling, entertaining silly You spend a good half hour weighing your victories against your losses You attempt to fantasize about an overly brawny ensign before you give You sigh and then scowl. You love him. It's something you've fought against for as long as you Your thoughts turn to your son. You know that he's safer with the You wonder if he is angry with you for not being there. You're afraid that he might forget you. You sigh; you scowl. You throw your pillow over your face and make an irritated noise that You make a face, roll your eyes, remove the pillow, and then remake You hope this restlessness doesn't become an every night occurrence; You take a deep breath and remind yourself of your victories against You remember that you forgot one of your knives when registering your **Apologies to Oded - But I thought it best to get this post out. 'The Rise and Fall of the Super Secret Squirrel In Training' Acting Ensign Aina Mason, Communications Officer and Super Secret Squirrel in Training * * * There was some activity in the Intelligence Operations Centre on the Galaxy and as Aina entered through the double doors to the centre proper, about half of the screens displaying rolling screens of data, pictures and analysis of communication streams suddenly went blank. Aina sighed as she looked up at the roof of the centre with some annoyance and kept on walking towards Saul's office. She had gotten used to the centre automatically shutting down displays and consoles that she didn't have clearance for, but it still irked her that it happened. And with the feelings of dread from the discovery of the Aiolos and the distress signal, she wasn't that happy. She soon smiled, then she'd never thought that in the time of a little more than a year and a half assigned to the Miranda and then to the Galaxy and still a cadet - she had gotten a chance to be a part of Intelligence - the chance to have some real challenges when it came to her Data Assault and Information Warfare Duties other than keeping the computer core from glitching up with people's porn and family photos. As she moved around an unused analysis table, she heard a familiar purring from the floor. Kneeling down and peering through the vents of an access panel, she saw a familiar furry ball. Raising an eyebrow in interest, she used the tip of her index finger nail, to pop the access panel and reached in to take out the purring ball of fur. Saul was heading out of his office, and stopped as he recognised Aina kneeling down next to the analysis table, he watched as she was reaching in as another hand seemed to rub a speckled coloured dust on her uniform. "Trouble, Aina?" he asked. "Tribble," returned Aina as she stood up, her handing wiping off the grittery powder from her uniform, the same grittery powder that was on her desk when her rod went missing and when Marsha's music vids also disappeared. She looked at the dust on her uniform for a few moments then put her attention back to Saul. Saul frowned as he looked at the tribble in Aina's hand. "It's not mine," Aina exclaimed thinking she was going to be blamed for it's presence. "They made it in here, didn't they?" He glared at the furry critter. Five of them penetrated the privacy of his quarters a week ago, and if not for Thing's alertness they would have enjoyed a lovely arm-shaped late-night snack. Saul rubbed his left synthetic arm. Thanks goodness for Neurotic Barzan animals. "There seems to be a bit of trouble with tribbles on the ship at the moment," she continued. "They are everywhere - how did this one get in?" "I don't know, but this reminds me that TechOps considered mounting Tribbles with espionage equipment twenty years ago. I hope no one else got the idea." "Bugged tribbles," returned Aina with surprise. "They failed miserably, by the way." The Dutchman smirked. He studied the tribble for a few moments more and then put his attention to Aina - "It's good that you have Intel shift today - I wanted to talk to you. Follow me." Aina put the now-offline Tribble on the top of the analysis table and followed Saul into his inner sanctum. The small, crowded and dark room made her feel a little claustrophobic. There were a handful of more spacious and decorated rooms for the Intelligence chief to establish as his headquarters, but instead he resided in a place barely fit as a teenage armory clerk's office. Minus the glitters. Saul tapped thrice on the commbadge, disconnecting it. He didn't want any interruptions. "First, I owe you an apology. With Valentina being MIA and no other instructor appointed to you for the time being, I think you were a little neglected." It had been weeks since Valentina disappeared in the Nebula and the encounter of the baby starbeast in the Hydran vessel. The analysis centre had been different with out her, and with the time that she had been gone, Aina had felt a little out of place. "Is there any word about anything about her?" she asked. Saul shook his head sideways. He resolved not to tell his crew of Valentina's late night visit. The only direction was that if they are being contacted by her or find anything about her, they were to notify him immediately. "There are no evidence that she was killed or captured by the Triad." Saul added. Aina nodded as she breathed in, "What happens now?" "We'll get to that later. First I need you to help me resolve a little professional dillema." Saul's hand hovered over a colorful control panel, and a planet appeared on screen. Its sunwards side seemed scarlet-brown, and the dark side was criss-crossed by lights, the hallmark of civilization. "It's simple really. We've got this neutral trade planet, in a star system not too far away. One of our listening posts picked interesting information that may relevant to the war effort. Usually, a covert surveilance team would be sent to infiltrate the planet and collect information, see if it's worth putting more resource into. However, the only available team in the region is composed of inexperienced officers - a couple of ensigns, very talented with some track record from their 'cadet cruise' but fresh out of school nonetheless. We can either send them, or wait for a more experienced team to become available and in the mean time leave the planet unhandled. We can also bring experienced officers from the outside, who aren't from intelligence, to handle the infiltration. One more thing you should know - as far as we know, the job is mundane and shouldn't pose too many challenges, but if anything go wrong - for example, Hydran presence is detected Saul froze the image. "So who would you do?" He leaned forward. "Assign the young, unexperienced Intel comets? The experienced, non-intel crew? Or wait for backup and hope you won't miss something vital?" Aina frowned in concern and after a few seconds looked at Saul questioningly - but as Saul returned the gaze, his face passive, Aina was sure that this was some form of test. No matter what, nobody asked an acting ensign, still yet to graduate from the Academy about any from of deployment. But it still begged the question, what was the test about? She didn't think that answer would be forthcoming from Saul so she looked at planet... "I'd wait for the backup team." Aina's voice was unusually flat in it's tone, and she had a look of seeing into the distance, when more she was looking into herself. "There is no indication that time is essential or you would have said so. In everything, time is important, but nothing to really suggest this situation is time dependant. If the listen team had been there a short time and a large amount of war relevant data was discovered or on a long term surveillance and an unusual piece of data was found, that would suggest a need of speed. None of that is there, interesting is not important." "Also, it sounds that you're not confident in the intel in determining the local situation. You'd want the best chance for flexibility if things do start to go tango uniform. With nothing already there to rely on, no other spies and the like, you'll need the team to make initial contact to local resources. I know if you'd drop me on that 'planet' I'd be crap in bribing in the local gang boss." "Thirdly, looking for data or information that may or may not exist..." Aina shrugged. Her eyes focused back onto Saul, "Basically if you want to hack any form of information process, you'll primary concern is to stay ghosted. And nothing you said so far convinces me to break my ghosting for data that may be there. And the experienced backup team has the best chance to keep any evidence of spying from coming to light." "So what you're saying is, that if there's a crucial assignment open you wouldn't give it to the newbyes, no matter how talented they are, because they would screw up? Interesting, how does that fit with you taking part in complex missions on the Miranda despite being a cadet?" Aina gave a slight smile, she had expected that one, "Nope, I'm not saying that. I didn't see it as a crucial assignment. I gave the reasons why I believed that time wasn't an issue. And the reasons why I only considered the existence of the information a possibility as compared to a probability. I also made the assumption and that one was very weak, about lack of resources, both Starfleet and Federation on the planet, if the only resources available were noobs." "Considering it is a neutral trade planet, I made some assumptions on possible political implications of a failed attempt and with my interpretation that information about where the team would be working was probably unreliable - I imagined things would get hot very easily. And one thing I know, no job is ever mundane. Just because you can throw a latinum bit and get heads three times in a row, does not mean you can get it four times in a row. I made a possible comparison of risk assesment against the possible existance of the information as compared to what possible consequences of being caught." "If the listening team had information of a likely probable existance of information as to that of possible, like a distinct change in amount of data or information or a very unique bit of information, that would have changed to whole equation." "My response was based on the data you gave me. Different data will get you different information - the only thing that could be in question is my assumptions as they aren't based on any actual data. And that would be an error in my part, if I was being asked my opinion of a intelligence deployment." Aina shrugged, "Not enough data to work on, I should've asked for info." "And for me being a part of complex missions for the Miranda. They were crucial and important and we couldn't wait for other teams to come in. There was also the fact, I was part of a number of other officers. All more experienced than I in intelligence or security. As to my position as a data assualt specialist - just because I haven't finished the Academy - I ain't a noob at that. Only two people got higher than me at Santa Clara." While she had expected something like Saul's question, she bridled a little bit of being labeled a newbie, especially with her love of systems. Her voice had started with a tinge of annoyance, but Saul was still her superior officer and she quickly had pushed her tone back to normal, by the time she had finished. "Why would you have put the newbies in?" Aina asked Saul. "Who says I would? That's the question.", Saul replied, a little unpatient. "Now, that was a long-winded, detailed, textbook answer. Wouldn't you say?" "It's a test, isn't it?" asked Aina. "In a test, you want the long winded answers." "At the academy, perhaps. Not in real life." Saul shot back. She was supposed to be a faster learner, he thought. "If this was a discussion or a department meeting, they would have cut you off after three sentences." He explained. "Try answering this one as though we're ten people in the room. A different situation - a Galaxy-class starship's Captain suddenly becomes disabled because of a mad Gorn. Executive officer is... let's switch Iniara for a thirty-years-old Lieutenant Commander, VERY talented, but only a few months in command. Also on board is a Commander Elessidil, which had commanded a ship once in battle and spent more time as second and executive officer, but isn't command-track. Would you put either of them in command until a replacement arrives, or ground a Galaxy-class cruiser until Starfleet sends some ancient Vulcan Captain?" Saul interlaced his fingers expectantly. Until now, he didn't realize how his dillema was similar to the Galaxy's actual situation. "You can't ground a starship, especially not a Galaxy-class cruiser. With the captain out, the next line officer with the greatest command experience gets the centre seat. Commander Elessidil is not in the command line, so the XO gets the job, until the Vulcan Captain arrives." Saul grinned. "You're getting better, though you're still in academy mindset. Stop thinking 'what's officially the best choice'. Start thinking 'what's REALLY the best choice'." Aina nose ridges deepened in embarrassment, "The best choice and what will happen are different things. The protocol for replacing the captain of a ship, is set in stone." She noticed that Saul wasn't as 'calm' as he normally was, he still looked calm and in control, but Aina could not shake a feeling of a dark coldness in the room. She had no idea of what was going in Saul's head, but she did know one thing, something was wrong. "Sau...Lieutenant Bental," Aina started saying Saul's first name, but decided to go with the saftey of protocol - she had no idea of what was going on and it looked like to her that Saul hadn't liked any of her answers. "Ummm - what is going on?" "I'm not some academy teacher who is too old or soft to do actual service so they send him to babysit children on San-Fran. I'm asking your consultance for a real life problem, and I want your real opinion, not what's best to write on the exam form. With that in mind, is there anything you want to change in your answer?" "My opinion is Commander Elessidil would be the choice for the centre chair. Experience in commanding a ship and experience in understanding the crew. The fusion of experience in a time of the laying up of captain would give him an advantage in keeping the crew at their work, especially since all the crew had a great like and respect for Captain M'Kantu - and many of them would could possibly react in ways to effect the ship duties. But Commander Iniara has been a wonderful captain, and she did an excellent job, there was no trouble - and the Vulcan captain has already arrived - so we'll never know if I was right or wrong." "But all of this has already been resolved, Command has made it's decision and naval protocol controlled the whole process - so what is the problem?" But one realisation came to Aina's mind, with the vagueness of the details in the questions - did Saul not know what he wanted to ask. Which Aina found very unlikely! Or was he trying to find information from her without letting her know the real reason - which was more than likely! But Saul was usually a lot better at doing that, usually she never knew until afterwards - usually when he told her. Taking a breath, and a risk - "What's the real question? With out obfuscating encryption of everything." she asked. "Coz then I can give a real answer." Finally a trace for some backbone, thought Saul. Aina's tedious response almost made him change his mind, but the last one convinced him that she could still be an investment worth the risk. He relaxed in his chair, leaning back. "Simple. A couple of weeks ago I realized I'm not getting my Technical OPS officer back." 'Realized' was a very neutral way of saying 'she beamed over me naked in the middle of a wet dream'. Saul wanted to leave that particular detail to himself. "So I thought I could either wait for SFI to send me an experienced TechOps officer - something that would take time as we're in war - ask Lieutenant Eshe to borrow someone experienced from her staff, or give it to the only Intelligence crewmember with Technical orientation and officer's training." Aina's mental gears almost stripped a cog as they changed from trying to figure out what was the issue to now the understanding of what Saul actually said and the opportunity of becoming a real member of Intelligence. This was the proverbial it...until she remembered what else Saul had said - that basically he was resigned of Valentina not coming back. "Ironically, in the first dillema you suggested waiting for the experienced officer. In the second, you proposed to take someone available from the outside. You are option number three." Finally able to engage some of her muscles to the whirring thoughts of her brain, Aina closed her mouth and her face finally regained some composure. Her expression went past stunned, to surprise, to contentment and was soon on to the journey of annoyance - she was also that close to not getting the position because of the dilemmas, because Saul didn't want to ask the right question. "Yes Saul, I want that position on two conditions." That got a laugh out of the Dutchman. "We're negotiating now? Let's hear it." "One - when Val returns, she gets her old spot back." Saul knew that wasn't likely ever to happen, so he just nodded. "Please don't hide or sanitise data if you want my opinion. Give me the wrong information, I will give you the wrong answer and obfuscating the whole situation, changed the question - coz I answered the questions you asked, not the question you wanted." Aina frown cleared, "Give me any computer and I can tell when it's lying or not. I'm still working on people." The two emotions of joy, from getting the position of TechOPs and that of annoyance, because answering the wrong questions had almost had her lose it - were now joined by simple fear. Telling her 'boss' what to do - well she might have just had the shortest position of TechOPs in the history of Starfleet. Finished before she even started it. "Goes without saying." Saul agreed, putting a sudden stop to that line of thought. "Now for my conditions. Or else it wouldn't be a negotiation." Aina nodded, happy that she still had the position. "First, until further notice you keep me posted of anything you do and we make all major decisions together. I give my people total independence because I know they can handle it, you - I just don't know you good enough yet. Second, if you feel at any time that this is a little too big for you right now, you come and tell. It won't influence my evaluation or opinion of you. It's much, much more important for TechOPS to operate optimally. OK?" Aina nodded again, "Yes Saul." "Excellent." He rose from his seat, briskly circumventing the table. A gentleman beneath all the layers of ruggedness, Saul offered her his hand. "Welcome to the team again, Ai--" Saul failed to complete the sentence, as a hissing side from behind snatched his attention. He turned his head sharply in mid-movement, startled, and his left foot ran into something stiff. The edge of the desk. Saul flailed his arms, but there was nothing to stop the fall. Almost nothing... * * * Ensign Lali Indarkshi, was standing outside Saul's office for three minutes now, tapping on the door panel once every few seconds. Some hot steaming piece of intelligence just came in from sector central, and she wanted to deliver it without delay. Saul wasn't replying to her hails, though, and Novitz told her that he was on his office with that Cadet Mason. Lali wondered why he didn't respond. She had no idea that inside the wall, a couple of hungry Techno-tribble had a nice afternoon snack, namely the panel's audio circuits. Eventually, she gave up. "Computer, open doors!" She commanded impatiently. The doors parted, there was a loud noise, and an unlikely sight appeared in front of her shocked eyes. Saul was lying stomach-down on the floor, with a handful of PADDs scattered around him. An office chair was lying sideways nearby, and beneath him there was an unidentified pile. Something extended from it, in her general direction, something like a ... leg? "I... oh! Oy! Sorry Lieutenant, cadet... carry on..." Lali giggled, and quickly retreated from the room. "Lali, it's not what--" Saul called after her desperately, but it was too late. "Mmph...mmph..." came from beneath the fallen Saul and then came a muffled "Get off me." Aina wasn't the strongest or biggest of female officers and with Saul landing on top of her...she was well and truly stuck. With his weight on top of her, having some trouble breathing and the back of her head pounding, she tried to move his bulk off of her. "Oh, right." Saul mumbled, standing up. With his weight off of her, Aina could actually breathe again, sitting up, she took to Saul's offered hand to help stand up, her other hand on the back of her head. "Oww, my head," she said as she got to her feet. Suddenly the room seemed to flash and then her legs seemed to loose all support and she started to collapse. "Hey!" Saul said, alarmed. He leaped forward, catching her before she hit the floor. "Everything's all right?" Kneeling on one knee, Aina slowly started to stand again, a little more carefully, her other hand on the desk for support as Saul lifted her up again, "I'm ok." "Good, because I don't have time to scout for another TechOPS officer. Now let's, err, start reviewing your initial responsibilities, err, perhaps outside the office?" Aina nodded as she pulled her arm away from Saul. With a shake of her head and rubbing the 'egg' that was forming on the back of her head, "I think that might be a good idea." Blinking her eyes, as if looking into a bright light, the stars that orbited her head started to fade. With a final shake of her head, the universe had cleared. Saul had let Aina go through the door first into the main intelligence area and while the centre had never been one for chatter, there seemed to be the feeling of expected silence in the air. The officers had all turned to watch the two enter through the door from his office and with a look from Saul, they all quickly returned to their consoles.
"Word On The Street" "The Game"
FRESHMAN YEAR
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK "Cadet IV Saiyk reporting as ordered sir."
Cadet II Compton, a Junior at Starfleet Academy, looked up from his Quantum-Calculus homework and sighed at the thin figure darkening his doorway.
A freshman…..A Cadet IV as they were referred to. You could spot them at a distance. Uniforms slightly disheveled….rank pin not completely polished, and in most cases an intense worried expression on their faces. Not so for Cadet Saiyk. He was a Vulcan and his bland expression betrayed no fear…….despite the fact that the only reason to knock on Compton's door was to receive punishment for some infraction or other. It wasn't really the Juniors' idea of fun being disciplinarian, but he was Cadet OOD for today, and teaching the newer students came with the territory of learning to be a leader himself. "Very well Cadet…..forward leaning position if you please and commence." "Aye sir, Mr. Compton." Nodding briskly the freshman Vulcan dropped into a classic pushup stance and began racking off repetitions, dutifully counting them off, "One sir….two sir…three sir….." Compton watched for a bit…..fiddled with his homework, a particularly nasty calculus problem, before finally giving up all pretence of aloofness and leaning forward to study the young Vulcan. Saiyk was somewhat atypical of his race…..seemingly homogenous that it was, with sandy brown hair, and deep blue eyes. The aforementioned hair was styled into traditional Starfleet points of course, but its wavy locks would never sit still long enough to submit to the typical Vulcan bowl cut. "…..thirty six sir……thirty seven sir….thirty eight sir……" The freshman continue to pump away at his pushups.
A junior now, Compton remembered many similar experiences from his own first year at the Academy. While not specifically a military organization, there was understandably a necessity for some forms of discipline and indoctrination. He just hoped that the young Vulcan understood what all the fuss was about. Now while some cadets reveled in harassing their underlings, but Compton never saw the use in it. When he was a freshman he ran and jumped through the various hoops for hours just 'enduring' the process without really learning anything. A Freshman must address all his upperclassmen as 'sir' or by their surname. A Freshman was allowed only minimal personal items. All uniforms had to be arranged in closets in a particular order. All items on a desk must be perfectly aligned. Hours and hours of drill taught a freshman to march, run , and jump in perfect unison with all his fellows. Eyes front, chin in, chest out, and sound off!
Compton sighed again. It all relaxed after the first year, but it was part of the process. He remembered hours and hours of 'Uniform Drills' from his freshman year. 'Cadets…you have 2 minutes to Appear on the parade grounds in Dress A's……….Good, now you have 2 minutes to get back here in PT gear………ok now we want you in Class Bravo's………back into A's…….survival gear……etc etc. The mad rush to change uniforms invariably left the cadet barracks looking like a tornado of discarded articles of clothing as there just wasn't time to change…and properly hang up the previous uniform. It was done on purpose…….the same as having the cadets lug their mattress and bedding on a run up Knob Hill…..and we better be able to bounce a quarter off your bed when we get to the top. The annual running of the Mattresses was a favorite for San Francisco civilians who lined the route to watch the stumbling cadets, offering encouragement, and the occasional illicit chocolate chip cookie to the newest members of the community.
It was all silliness and impossible tasks. Compton hoped the young Vulcan before him would actually get something out of it. "Cadet Saiyk…..do you know why you are here?" he asked at length. Pausing in his efforts, but remaining in perfect stance the Vulcan replied, "Aye sir….this cadet is reporting for physical discipline in lieu of formal reprimand in regards to the incident of 27 May." Typical cadet jargon for : I got in trouble and now I have to do pushups. "And what was that incident?" Saiyk didn't pause. "Inappropriate address of a superior officer….I referred to Cadet 1st class Jeffers inappropriately." Compton sighed. "You called him Brad….that's his first name." "Aye Mr. Compton….I believe that is what I indicated…….As you are aware, a Cadet IV does not have the privilege of knowing an upperclassman's first name sir……thirty nine sir….forty sir……."
It was an Academy tradition. In the process of training a cadet to be a leader, one first had to become a follower. "Its a Game Saiyk." Compton blurted out. "…..Fifty four sir…..fifty five……sir??" The Vulcan paused again in his efforts and looked up to consider the Junior with a curious gaze. "A game sir?"
"A game yes…..do you really think you are here because you called a 21 year old cadet by his first name? Do you think Starfleet really cares about that?" Holding his stance on the floor, Saiyk looked a way for a brief moment pondering. "I must admit sir, I have considered the infraction to be rather trivial in nature and the subsequent punishment a rather inefficient expenditure of energies." There was an almost imperceptible shake of the head….sure sign of a Vulcan in deep distress, "I fail to understand how eating 'square' meals, or memorizing how many bricks it took to build Allbrighton tower makes me a better cadet." Compton was suddenly very concerned. For a Vulcan to express doubt so openly was a major red flag. "Why are you here?" He repeated the earlier question. A quizzical look, "As I indicated, for punishment in regards to…"
"No, no, no…" The upperclassman interrupted, "Here at the Academy….why are you here counting bricks and scrubbing showers with your toothbrush?" A shift of mental gears. "Sir, Cadet Saiyk is pursuing a Science scholarship with the eventual goal of posting in said discipline…..I have not determined my final area of major." Cadet Compton sighed and leaned back in his chair studying the Vulcan. He waited several long moments before ordering. "Recover." at which the freshman leapt back to his feet, stiffening in attention. More moments passed before the Junior continued. "No Mr. Saiyk….you are here to learn how to be a leader, and that's the reason for the game." He explained. "Starfleet doesn't care how many pushups you can do…..it doesn't care how fast you run, or how straight you can stand at attention. We spend hours and hours polishing our shoes and our brass, and it doesn't mean a thing….its all part of the game." "Again sir, I have to inquire….what game are you referring to?" "Just all of this." Compton motioned with his hands to indicate the Academy as a whole. "The test is to see if you have the mental toughness to put up with the silly stuff….the crazy rules and insane demands. To see if you have the discipline to balance class and drill and the mental frustration that comes with doing pushups on an upperclassman's floor just because you called somebody by their first name." "Take uniform drills…..its specifically timed to make sure nobody can possibly change in and out of uniform quick enough without destroying their closets in the process……Its on purpose. Nobody cares if the uniform is right…..even if we scream about it….the test is to see if anybody looses their cool at the insanity of it all." Compton paused for a chuckle, "I remember my freshman year, I got so mixed up I fell out with Class A's top and muddy combat boots…I really payed for that one." "However, the fact is Mr. Saiyk, if you wanted to be a scientist you would have pursued a course in the Vulcan science directorate, or somewhere else in the civilian community. The opportunities are just as great and there is no silly cadet nonsense to put up with. But in Starfleet…there is something more. Leadership. The Federation is in desperate need of great leaders as well as scientists." He looked the Vulcan straight in the eye, "You are here to prove you can survive the insanity without blowing your cool, and without taking it personally. You are here to take orders….no matter how silly….so that someday you learn to give real ones wisely. "
At attention, Saiyk watched his upperclassman closely, wheels turning within his head. "Sir….Mr. Compton, were you aware that I had recently petitioned for a transfer to said Vulcan science Directorate….to end my Academy career and drop out? Its to become effective next week." The Junior suspected as much. "No….I dint know for sure, but I've seen enough freshman…been one myself….. to know the signs of frustration……even in a Vulcan." he added before the cadet could protest. " I dunno Saiyk……your life is up to you, but maybe I was hoping that you'd get more out of doing pushups on my floor than just a good workout. Maybe I hoped you'd see through the game, and realize there is something more out there. If you can do this…..you can do anything."
For long moments the young Vulcan stood at attention, his face unreadable. Logic it seemed, came from unexpected sources. At length he stood a bit taller and opened his mouth, "Mr. Compton Sir…..this cadet requests permission to complete his discipline…..for the greater good of the Federation of course. " Compton smiled and dropped to the floor himself also in a pushup position……facing an underclassman that was now a comrade, "Very well cadet….why don't you motivate me and give me a class set? You're class of 85 right? 85 pushups on the double and I'll do them with you." Cocking his head slightly, Saiyk only nodded. "Aye sir……one sir….two sir….three sir…." "And Saiyk……" said Compton as he pushed alongside, "My name is John…."
SOPHOMORE YEAR
"Cadet III Saiyk reporting as ordered Professor Mathers." His second year rank pins polished to a brilliant shine, Saiyk stood tall before the Academic review board seated at their little wooden table. "At ease cadet." The center seated Instructor nodded with a smile. "This is an informal proceeding, where we'll attempt to pin down the future track of your career here at the Academy." Dropping smoothly into a perfect relaxed stance Saiyk's face betrayed no emotion "Of course sir." "Now your completion of the Core curriculum has been quite admirable cadet. Strong scores in science and interestingly enough cadet leadership courses." The instructor paused and studied the youth. "Normally we see our Science majors, Vulcans especially, pursue research electives during the summer semesters almost to exclusion. However you chose to enroll in the Leadership Seminar and Survival Course on Mars……your reasoning cadet?" "Inspiration sir." Saiyk responded simply. "This cadet has had opportunities to observe various individuals gifted with the powers of motivation and leadership. These are skills that in myself are not fully developed and I determined to rectify that deficiency." "Indeed." The Instructor smiled. "Very well….Mr. Saiyk. An admiral trait ot recognize one's weakness and seek it out. Your scores from the course seem to indicate that Leadership Abilities are becoming more of an aptitude than a weakness I dare say." he smiled, "Now to the business of formally declaring your major areas of study. Have you made a determination?" "Planetary Science sir…..emphasis on planetary formation and Vulcanology." "Vulcanology?" The word seemed odd coming from a Vulcan. "Aye sir….volcanoes and seismic events sir….not the study of my racial heritage." "Of course. A Vulcan Vulcanologist." A small chuckle. "And your minors?" A slight pause, "Command courses sir……"
JUNIOR YEAR
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
"Cadet IV Darby reporting as ordered Mr. Saiyk." Cadet II Saiyk looked up from his homework and considered the sad looking freshman standing before him. Shoes's unlaced, noticeable stain on the right trouser leg, and a shirt straining to contain a massive belly. Saiyk was curious how a rather rotund individual such as Darby could have passed the rigorous Academy fitness exams, but for the moment he was more concerned as to how his repeated inability to keep up with his classmates physically was affecting his future. "Front leaning rest position Mr, Darby." he commanded, "Commence at your leisure." Flushing with resignation, the large boy dropped to the floor, and proceeded to strain away. "One sir…..two sir….unhhh…three sir…." Watching impassively from his chair, Saiyk estimated the freshman would collapse before reaching twenty five pushups. "Mr. Darby……why are you here?" "Five sir….ugh…..uh…sir this cadet is here for failing to complete the mile run in the required….unh…required time……." A pause while he panted a bit. "Actually…and along the way…I dropped my mattress in the mud.".
"Indeed." was all Saiyk said as he leaned forward to study the sweating youngster. "The sin of muddy bedding and its effect on the future of the Federation aside……Why are you really here Mr. Darby?" A puzzled look passed over the beet red face. "Sir….uh…..sir….its Starfleet!"
The emotion behind the simple word 'Starfleet." said it all. A lifetime of ambition and dreams bundled up into one magical two syllable word.
Staaaaarfleet…….That's why I'm here. What more need be said?
Closing his Astronomy book, Saiyk dropped to the floor into a pushup position facing the shocked human. "I understand." he said simply. "Listen to me. We'll do the exercises together. Right now Mr. Darby…I am here for you…count with me….slowly….don't jerk your arms. Tonight we will do twenty pushups. Tomorrow night……we will do twenty one." A look of faint understanding crossed the boys face. "It is all a game Mr. Darby…..I will help you play it."
SENIOR YEAR
Dabbing carefully with the bush, Cadet 1st Class Saiyk dusted off a small layer of rock from the corpse in front of him. The fact that said Corpse was over two thousand years old and sprawled face first in the middle of what was once glorious downtown Pompeii excused him however. The centuries old city was a Vulcanologist's dream come true….especially for this Vulcan Vulcanologist that the research team has teasing taken to calling V-squared. As part of his senior thesis in planetary science and seismic vulcanism, Saiyk had obtained a rare 6 week posting in the restored Pompeii archaeological site testing his theories on the events of 79AD. The site was shared with scientists form many different disciplines……sociologists….anthropologists, and a few more vulcanologist from a civilian school, all digging away into that sad silent town that would forever be a monument to its own suffering. Brushing away another layer of millennial old dirt, Saiyk scanned the structure of the corpse. A male ostensibly…..face down in the street, covering his head pathetically against the molten horror that ran him down. The sadness of the scene was not lost upon Saiyk, although his sharp Vulcan feature betrayed no reaction. "Excuse me Mr. Saiyk." a voice from behind interrupted his thoughts. "Are these the sample tins you wanted?" Turning to look, Saiyk considered the tall figure framed by the hot Italian sun. "They are. Please set them there Roger." Stooping, the Academy sophomore dropped his load, his torso well cut, and massive arms rippling with muscles. "Gotta thank you again Saiyk for bringing me along as your assistant." The sophomore said with an easy grin. "Underclassmen never get opportunities like this, and I was afraid I'd be stuck on some survival hike in the Outback for the summer." Inspecting his tins to make sure they were all properly labeled, Saiyk shrugged imperceptibly. "Your efforts in the last year have been remarkable Mr. Darby. A survival hike would only prove physical skills you have already developed to perfection. No one I dare say would doubt your endurance now." The rugged face grinned, barely recognizable from the fat youth of a year ago. "Maybe…..I still cant break 29 minutes for the Academy 10-k run though." "The race, Roger does not do to the swiftest, but often to he with the most perseverance. In that you have succeeded already."
"Maybe." Darby sighed, settling down to watch his friend poke around at the eerily lifelike petrified mummy.
"I'm gonna miss ya buddy." he said at length. "I owe you a lot, and the Academy wont seem the same without you after graduation." Saiyk paused in his efforts and considered Darby coolly, his un-vulcan like sandy hair blowing gently in the breeze. "Indeed. " he nodded. It was the most emotion he could muster, but the message was clear. Saiyk too would miss his friend.
"Have you heard where you're being posted? After Grad I mean?" Darby asked.
Bending back to his scans, the vulcan gave a short nod. "I have. The USS Galaxy." (OOC: Before I hear the inevitable comments about starships firing while under cloak, the Ty’Gokor Class Cloaking Device is being used by the Klingons as established (in our little Miranda/Galaxy Universe) by the NHS Sim, Star Trek: The Path To Glory that I ran and is currently in hiatus. You can see the information at http://thedieseljester.tripod.com)
Starfleet Third Echelon: The Bainbridge Chronicles Act I: “The Last Note of Freedom” Scene 5: “Wild Goose Chase”
Captain Gabriel McKibben, Commanding Officer Lt. Commander Alexander Clayton, Executive Officer/Chief Operations Lt. Commander Jeremiah Leger, Second Officer/Chief Tactical/Security Lieutenant JG Valdis, Intelligence/Strategic Operations Lieutenant Tarik, Third Officer/Chief Science/Communications Lieutenant JG Sannek Cole, Chief Flight Control
********** Unknown Planet, Unnamed Star System - Near Hydran/Federation Border Main Bridge
"Slow to impulse." McKibben ordered. "Bring up the planet on the main screen." he said. It had been a long and painful few days travel from the vicinity of Deep Space Five to the Hydran/Federation Border, but with limited warp capability and running silent under cloak finally paid off. There had been times when McKibben had been tempted to try out the Ty'Gokor Class Cloaking Device to snipe Triad Convoys that they'd passed, but their mission and their secrecy was essential. He logged their locations and directions and sent them via encrypted subspace transmissions back to command and continued on. But damn! He really wanted to try out the new cloaking device.
The Ty’Gokor Class Cloaking Device was one of such devices that had been resurrected by the Klingon Empire with the capabilities to fire while under cloak. With the (somewhat) success of the Romulan version that devastated the USS Enterprise, the Klingons found it worthwhile to revisit that old technology. McKibben was thankful that Leger was adopted brother of the captain of the ship that had been outfitted with that technology; Captain Korleth of the House of Mi’Goth, Captain of the IKS Ty’Gokor.
McKibben rubbed his chin as he studied the planet before him. “Tarik, is this the right place?” He was uneasy from the fact that there was suspiciously no activity where a Hydran Attack Squadron originated at.
“Affirmative Captain.” Tarik replied. “The warp signatures originate approximately then A.U.s from our current position. The planet below is Class K and is where the engine signatures of the attack squadron originate. Sensor scans show that multiple ships have come and gone recently.”
“Huh…” McKibben said. “Tactical?”
“Long range shows a couple of Hydran Attack Cruisers patrolling the system. They haven’t spotted us nor picked up our warp signature. The planet has some kind of structure on the surface. Bringing it up now.”
The viewscreen shifted to show a couple of structures that sat next to an elongated strip of tarmac. It was the perfect size to hold a squadron or two of attack cruisers. Right now, the tarmac was clear. Judging by the amount of activity and the fact of a rear guard patrol, McKibben figured that this was a nice little forward staging base for the Triad. “I want to go down and take a look.” He said, standing suddenly. “We have transporters back yet?”
“Negative.” Clayton said. “Simena had to take them offline to keep the cloak running. She says that we can have both once we put in for proper repairs. Besides, looking at the atmospheric content of that planet, I wouldn’t want to use the transporters anyways.”
“Perfect…” McKibben muttered. “That leaves shuttles then.” He said. “Alex, you have the bridge, I’ll take a team down.”
“With all due respect, I’d rather go down.” Clayton said. “You should stay here.”
“Yeah right,” McKibben said. “Fine, you take a second shuttle. Leger, you have the bridge then.” He said, cutting off Leger’s inevitable protest. “And get me a few security members for muscle down to the shuttlebay.” He turned to Clayton as Leger grumbled behind him about being left on the ship on their first operation. “What do you think? Tarik, Valdis, Barents, Odan, Sannek, Linnis, and whoever Leger assigns to us?”
“I got Damant and Miller heading down now.” Leger said. “I’d like to keep Khatowren and Zim onboard to run security while you two are down there having fun.”
Clayton mulled it over. “That gives us a Science/Intel Operative, Engineer, Pilot, and Security cover each.” He said. “I like it.” He nodded to the two Vulcans and one Bajoran to relinquish their stations to their replacements so that they could go prep for the op.
“Alight then. Let’s go down, take a look, and hope that we’re not on a wild goose chase.” McKibben said. When he caught Tarik’s and Valdis’ puzzled looks he added “Human expression, I’ll tell you later.” He caught Valdis muttering something to Tarik about ‘Human Humor’.
TBC… OOC - happens just before the Galaxy leaves for the mission. sorry "Sustainance" Personal Quarters, Deck 9 Operations on board the Galaxy, like any starship berthed at Deep- Ops was a hive of frantic activity, and Th'Khiss K'aa sat quietly in Once he got it past his outraged ego that he was eating the boiled The 'human condition', a he had been discovering since Chris had ~I can't imagine how the Klingons live it down.~ Some of the hair had to go, and a quick trip to Mister Rezz, the The once positive experience had been the shower. As he lathered When the steam and vapor had been vented by the fans and duct-work, A new uniform for his withered frame was quickly replicated, and the The roar he put to his throat seemed little more than a gurgle, and "Computer", he croaked., "what is the temperature cell of the =^= The cell temperature is seven degrees Celsius=^= "Adjust the temperature down to three degrees over a period of three The chirp from the ship's computer told him that at least this amount OOC - occurs just prior to "Sustainance". sorry. "Economy of Scale" Lt. Commander Th'Khiss K'aa Quarters, Deck 2 When he felt the cool cascade of the ship's air-conditioning fall over His quarters were smaller than the Pathfinder-class Miranda, but from The first thing he laid eyes upon was his grandsire's armor, centuries Above the armor another alien thing grinned down at him, seemingly "You may want to remember to put a lock on the door." K'aa turned to The comment drew a brief, harsh laugh from the former prisoner. For an instant, Chris started to give K'aa the "Are you freaking "It's been....an interesting year to say the least." He finally Again, K'aa shook with another uncontrollable bark of bitter laughter. "Oh...um...I broke it during the last battle...story for another time. K'aa's red-tinged eyes looked at the cuff, ironically with a fair Chris caught himself looking at K'aa with a hint of anger as he tried Human modesty over battle-scars always confounded K'aa, and he hoped Chris took in what K'aa said and reflected on it. He had never really "Journey through life...", K'aa muttered as he reflected on the image, Chris took the PADD and scanned it, noticing quickly what the subject "Do humans *really* consume that much fruit, vegetables and grains?" He smirked. "Yeah, sorry to tell ya, but you're probably going to "That's... unfortunate", K'aa's frown was deepening when he recalled Chris' eyes narrowed as his mind decided what to do. For a moment he "Nothing it'll be able to repeat now that we know how to control it." "That sounds... significant", the former POW rasped. In the pit of Chris stood and walked within a foot of K'aa, his eyes now glowing "Yes... I have something of a... reputation for that sort of thing." "And you want to know the worst part? After we subdued it and I got The gaunt man's mouth twitched into something that should have been a Chris backed away and looked back at K'aa. "Sounds like you and I "Agreed", K'aa managed after slowly recovering his composure. "And "I don't." Chris replied matter-of-factly. "The thing is an egomaniac The haggard man nodded as his friends words sunk in. "Then you're a Chris' eyes narrowed for a minute. "Well, I can't tell you not to Slowly, K'aa nodded. "For a while, yes", he agreed, but still bore a Chris nodded, the irony of K'aa no longer having scales to grown not K”aa clasped it with the feeble strength he could muster, knowing that Chris walked to the door and stopped, turning around, a look of relief “Hmmmm?” "It's good to have you back, Big Man." "Early Morning Thoughts" J. Andrus Suder **** The room he left had been dark and quiet, but warm. Temperature, yes, It didn't surprise him. Assuming the lights had been turned down for a reason, Brian silently He stopped at the desk, regarding with some tenderness the silent "A library's a pretty good place to think," he quietly commented, "I've come to think so," Andy replied, pushing back a book he hadn't Brian shrugged. "Seems to be contagious lately." Andrus nodded. He knew it was inevitable - several nights of leaving "Who said I was here to argue or break up?" "Aren't you?" Andy asked. There was a bitter tone to his voice that In any other relationship Andy's tone might indeed have led quickly to "I've been thinking about you," Andy said bluntly. "About us. What "Quite a number of things, you know that," he answered. "The ship, Andrus laughed. "Only a counselor could ask that question with a A peculiar look crossed Brian's face in response. "Andy...why would "Of course it would," Andy replied. He grabbed at the book - one of "No, you're not. But as you once told me, you don't do long-term "No, I don't," the librarian replied. "Didn't." He pulled what "Unless...?" Brian queried further, slowly cocking his head as he "Unless you might want to." Brian rose slowly from his seat, not taking his eyes off Andy. For a "I- I'm not sure how to respond to that," he replied honestly. "Look, if you don't want to ..." "I didn't say that! Believe me, if it were as easy as a simple yes or Andrus frowned. "How much time?" Brian just stared back blankly, having moved well past trying to "I think," Andy started before a wave of ... something hit him and he "Yes," Brian answered, understanding that Andy would be starting to feel it too. It was an odd sensation and disorienting as hell, Andrus decided. "Can Brian stood to leave. "No...I should just go....Wait, no, no, I Despite the situation, Andy couldn't help but smile. "You're asking "Thanks," Brian replied. He re-seated himself and looked at Andy once Andrus stared for a moment, not quite sure if he could believe that. "The Odd Couple"
Starring : Cadet Paige Sullivan (Kate) Operations Ensign Saiyk (Chris) Planetary Sciences She was a ship built to live amongst the stars, and the transluminal There was a short introductory speech given by a yeoman to the That said, the fledglings were left to fend for themselves, leaving The passageways were brightly lit....a bit too much yellow for his Circa 2360's architecture with great swaths of beige and brown There was little fuss in tracking down his quarters... the old style It was only when the barrier hissed aside to reveal a double occupancy Very well... he restrained an involuntary chill. Stepping inside A bra. It was serendipitous that at that very moment, the doors to the shared "Zullar," she said, making a face as she dropped her hands and studied Saiyk had to restrain a surprised blink, and a fleeting curiosity as As she chirped -- and her speech pattern sounded a lot like chirping She tucked the article of clothing into her footlocker and then took "I'm Paige Sullivan, by the way," she said, perhaps the most "Saiyk," he replied simply with an ever so slight bow. For several He watched her silently as she dressed for several long moments, "Ms. Sullivan," he began formally, "forgive my limited knowledge of "Indeed." He digested that information....not at all certain of 57.2% of the young woman's phraseology. "Then it seems we shall "That's one term for it," Paige agreed. "Another term is cohabitantly damned." ~Illogical terminology,~ he thought. Lodging practices and mythical Turning towards his own side of the cramped room, his head swam a Again a compromise would be in order, but it would be impolite to Dropping his small duffel on the bare green mattress… he'd have to His friend Darby back at the Academy had been an aspiring artist, and "I must ask Ms. Sullivan," he said as he unpacked, "In the interest of "Don't come at me with scissors and I think we're karzi," she said. He turned to face her, standing face-to-face mere feet apart given the He paused, finding himself looking at the bright yellow shoelaces "Sure thing." "Vulcans," he explained, "as you are no doubt aware, are inherently She stared at him for a moment, processing the formalized speech she Nodding slightly, Saiyk turned to resume his unpacking. Starfleet it seemed was already an adventure into unknown territory. "Extrasolar planets" For young Ensign Saiyk of Vulcan, this was time for his first planetary survey serving as Science Officer aboard a Starfleet ship of the Line. Were he human that distinction might have been betrayed by nervousness, excitement, fear, or any combination of all three at the same time. Instead he noted the event with a simply inclination of his head as he closely examined the results streaming across his panel. There were currently three robotic probes examining the HD189625 star system. The first was in a high polar orbit above the system plane to get an overall view while the other two streaked back and forth across the orbital belt switching their areas of interest under the close supervision of Saiyk. There were some drawbacks to having a Chief Science officer whose interests so closely matched ones own. At first Saiyk hoped to glean some gem s of knowledge from the more experienced Lt Kara'nin, but it soon became apparent that the Fruna'lin was disinclined to share in his personal astrometrical research. So today Saiyk was flying probes. An important enough task, being necessary for the accurate charting of orbital periods and system population, but far from his own specialties in planetary formation and evolution. No matter. "Polar Orbital confirms HD 189625 as G5 Main sequence Primary" he intoned for the benefit of the mission recorder. "Initial parallax scan of system reveals 7 planetary bodies out to 19 AU with a maximum deviation of 12 degrees of the main orbital plane." He fiddled with the controls a bit more expanding the probes view to include the more remote regions of the system. The slow moving orbital periods would delay the parallax analysis a bit, but preliminary data pointed towards a typical Plutoid population and the ubiquitous Oort cloud. Leaving the first probe to its business, his fingers flew over the controls programming in parallel flybys for the close in Probes. Starting with the first planet out from the central star they would spiral outwards on a Grand tour of the system bringing in valuable scientific data without requiring the Galaxy to make the trip itself. He programmed four flyby's for one probe, and two for the second on the far side of the system. The benefits of an Impulse drive was apparent in that the entire survey was projected at being complete in less than 12 hours compared to the decade long Grand Tour in the days of Voyager. Adjusting the probe's trajectories a bit, he sat back a bit in his chair to reexamine the preliminary data. No gas giants present. Somewhat of an oddity, but not entirely unheard of. Planetary formation being his specialty he was already running down known possibilities for such a finding. The G5 primary was too young for the most exotic of the explanations....atmospheric dispersal resulting from stellar shell expansion. Unfortunate.
The chance to see the core of a Gas giant after its thick atmosphere was blown away by the pulsating of its central star would be the find of the century. Fortunately he was Vulcan and as such there was no disappointment....but there was curiosity. "Planetary Body I….Classification HD 189625 b ....Class D Nickel Iron.....no discernable atmosphere, tidal locked with G5 Primary. Initial scans reveal seismically inert at present." He tapped out some additional commands and hit the transmit button Somewhere millions of miles away from Saiyk sitting at his Science station, a robotic probe broke orbit from a rather boring little world, and punching it up to .9c was quickly in orbit around a more interesting subject. "Planetary Body II .....HD 189625 c…..Class K Silica based crust with extensive crystalline outcroppings. Atmosphere spectroscopy reveals thin carbon dioxide, nitrogen layers.....surface scarring indicative of subterranean fault lines and recent volcanic activity....." Saiyk paused his dictation to send the distant probe in a low pass along a likely point of interest. "Addendum…..surface debris at northern hemispherical coordinates 23.56N by 17.22E .…..Scans reveal shattered crystal monoliths and sulphuric dust particles which lends weight to volcanic hypothesis within last......" he paused to run some calculations. "...within last 15-20 years by standard estimations." The vulcanologist in him desired a closer look at said upheaval, but his little robotic avatar was already rocketing along at near superluminal speeds. The third planet HD 189625 d, was skipped...it being the primary area of interest and the current destination of Galaxy anyway. No need in duplicating efforts. In the process of spiraling outwards, the probe catalogued two additional asteroid sized objects, and a number of short term comets. "PB IV…designated HD189625 e, indicative of Class L....Iron nickel core, seismically active. Mass at 3.2 Terran standard and diameter of 3.78 of said standard." He paused to examine his data. The high diameter and relatively low mass indicated a rather low density world. Not quite outside to realm of normal, but intriguing nevertheless. "Surface water present at estimated 22% of surface area in two southern hemispherical lakes and scattered streams. Concentrated nature of said lakes indicative of possible meteor strike as origin for basins. Further scan reveal evidence of cholophyl based plant life in and around aforementioned lake sites." "Que Bien!" came the unexpected voice from just behind Saiyk. Swiveling in his chair , he was confronted with the slim form of Ens. Miguel Antonio Sandoval…..Chief of the Botanical Research Division. Saiyk nodded slightly, "Forgive me Ensign Sandoval, I was not aware of your presence…..shall I forward a copy of the initial data to your Department?" The Latino nodded appreciatively with a smile, and took the opportunity to point out some of the streaming data form Saiyk's probe. "Mira Senor Saiyk….chlorophyllic metabolic synthesis across the spectrum. You have evidence of subsurface plant growth as well?" Directing the probe into an even lower orbit, Saiyk refined the scans on the botanist area of interest. "Indeed Ensign……submerged plant life evident in both lake areas…..however…." he paused as some unusual data flowed by on the screen. He was not an expert on life sciences but….. "Madre de Dios." Sandovla exclaimed with a grin. "Non terrestrial amino acids and plant proteins……you suspect the lakes are old meteor strikes si?" "Indeed." "….and these readings indicate seeds of life brought in from some other source." Miguel rubbed his chin. "Alien proteins carried in by the meteors to seed life anew on this planet?" Saiyk was forced to agree. "It bears further scrutiny, but yes…..I would say that is a sound hypothesis at this juncture." Miguel was all smiles, already making lists of supplies he'd need to go down to the planet to test his theories. Let the rest of the ship investigate centuries old radio signals on the third planet…..he had a more important botnaical mystery to solve on the 4th. "Que bien Senor Saiyk….Gracias…muchos gracias……please forward data to my department, and I'll begin at once. I'll mention your name in my paper!" With a little whoop of excitement, the El Salvadoran was gone as quickly as he appeared, leaving the young Vulcan to complete his scan.
The final two major planets of the system HD189625 fI and HD189625 fII were a double system. Equal in mass and orbiting about a fixed la Grange point in space, they were a fascinating…if deadly study. Gravitational Torsion and Seismic upheavals were common occurrences, and the twin surfaces were daily reshaped and splintered into new forms. The Vulcanologist in Saiyk was almost drooling at the constant upheavals…..the origins of such a system were an enticing mystery. Most double planets ended up smashing into one another , or having one flung off into space. To coexist so closely for so long spoke of a delicate evolution that he longed to understand. He allowed himself the conceit of an extra three orbits about the twin worlds charting the complex gravitational flux's before closing out the report for Lt. Kara'nin's approval. There were other Departments aboard the Galaxy that had need of the Probes, and as such he surrendered his control to the Solar Observatory, next in line. Rising from his station, the sandy haired Vulcan had to repress a surge of satisfaction…….it seemed the USS Galaxy was turning out to be the Scientific home he had hoped for. "Lost" Cmdr. Arel Smith ***** USS Galaxy She entered the room quietly, with no remorse for overriding the lock Her brother told her to get lost. She thought about it for a moment and then nodded. "Only if you come with me," Arel said. ***** Holdeck Two The trees were filled with twisted and gnarled branches that made them "View's better from up here," Arel called down from her branch. For'kel sighed. Tramping through a Klingon jungle wasn't exactly Arel shook her head. "No point to make, just wanted you to get some "So... knowing I hate heat you picked the warmest, wettest climate you "You said get lost." Arel shrugged. "Klingons are literal. Next time "Really? So if someone were to say 'fuck you', do you take that as an "Nope," Arel replied, continuing to climb. She'd forgotten how She paused and wiped her brow. Maybe she'd program a more hospitable "I was perfectly fine in my quarters." Fork sighed. "Computer, The Holodeck switched over immediately from the hot moist climate of a Arel sat down on a nearby boulder. "If you say so." She looked out at "So... what now?" Fork wasn't really any better at this kind of stuff Arel nodded. "Want to hike down there?" Hell, they might as well. "Sure. Have you ever been in a pine-forest before?" They started to walk. "Perhaps. I never really used to pay attention "Yes it is. The main city on Al'Klei'sh is just opposite those "You're going to have to teach me some of these curses one day," Arel He walked down the dirt trail in near silence. He wasn't much in the "Nope," Arel said. "Can't get a hold of him." "You do realize there are options other than yelling or smoke signals, "I suspect he's telling his lackeys to say he's busy. Gorram smegging pthak." "And you married him... 'why'?" For'kel asked as he took a short-cut "Like having a smart ass for a brother?" Arel replied. "Exactly, that's the spirit." Fork stuck his hands in his pockets for "Good," She said with a sigh. "My grandfather took him to a tournament "His first tournament already, hmmm?" He chuckled. "He's growing up Arel nodded. "Yes it does." But she didn't want to talk about her son "You know I'll win, right?" He couldn't help but smirk. He knew what "Go frell yourself," Arel snapped right back. "I don't need your help." "Suit yourself." Fork threw back over his shoulder as he took off running. "Cheater!" She yelled before running after him. "Whiskey Lullaby" Colonel For'kel Arvelion
======================= "I brought coffee." Her soft voice peeked around the corner before she did. Two mugs in hand, padds tucked underneath arms, Zamora was the epitome of business like appearance. Her dark eyes held a femininity that was difficult to find in her department, yet she held out the hope that the whole world was not evil....just small parts of it. Placing the mugs down on his desk, Ophelia sat, crossed her legs, adjusted her skirt and cleared her throat. "What are we going to do about 'him'?" Fork was feeling a headache building up. Contrary to cliche jokes, it wasn't even the lawyer's fault. Every time he heard the name 'Man'darr Maivia' as of late however, he just couldn't help but get ticked off, and stress had a way of inducing headaches. The fact that it really hadn't been front and center on his plate (as if he needed 'more' difficulties) didn't seem to be helping things either. It was probably best that, like a counseling session for the annual psychological reviews, they just got it over and done with. "Thank you." He gave Ophelia a friendly grin, not really finding it necessary to tell her that he didn't drink coffee. No coffee... no alcohol... like Leah once said 'No wonder you can be such a crab!' "As for Captain Maivia, I don't know, or care honestly, at this point. I'm tired of dealing with Admirals who put the 'ass' in brass, and quite frankly I'm tired of having to defend myself whenever it is either he or Lieutenant London opts to throw a tantrum." "Then don't. Pass the buck so to speak. The next time either of them choose to take the 'immature' path, recommend mandatory counseling from one of the counselor's on board. Make it with a warning that if they screw up after that, they can have a talk with the friendly neighborhood JAG. There are plenty of disciplinary actions that can be placed upon an officer of Starfleet without putting them in the brig. Everyone assumes that if you are naughty, you automatically get a cell. Not so. Creativity is a wonderful tool to be used to keep certain people in line Fork. My personal opinion? This 'crap' needs to end. I'm sure it's the last thing you need with all that..........." She let her voice trail off before hiding behind her mug while taking a sip of her drink. Boy, was that the truth. "I'm not the kind of person that forces my problems on everyone else, Ophelia. Nor do I normally issue threats I'm not prepared to carry out. I'm not going to force a transfer to another unit, only to have their CO's clean things up. As for counseling... well I came aboard this ship with admittedly jaded views of counseling, and Lieutenant London's actions have only served to reinforce said views. Besides, in Maivia's case I think there's a serious safety issue for any counselor daring enough to deal with him." Whatever the Admiral's assurances, Fork wasn't about to be responsible for getting a prying counselor killed. "And I think we've established that confinement to quarters and elimination of privileges just aren't effective. He's going to end up making me wish I'd vaporized him when I had the chance." That probably wasn't true... 'probably', but it sure felt that way. His eyes caught a glimpse of a photograph on his desk, one of the few personal effects he kept... Berilyn holding their son and perched between the arm and back of their sofa. A simple snap-shot taken randomly on your average day, but there wasn't anything 'average' about Berilyn's beautiful eyes and lips, or Koren's sparkling eyes. "Maybe it's just time to call it quits." "I doubt you really mean that. I know that what I've been through is nothing in comparison to what you have experienced Fork, but at times, I felt like quitting as well. This job.....was at times the only thing that kept my head above water. And even this job, was in jeopardy for a while. The one thing....one person that kept me grounded was my son Logan. He was with me in spirit up until recently when he came aboard. I don't know. I don't know what you know of my story, what you care to know or not. But, in the last six months my ex husband was killed, I was found innocent of his murder, and was able to get my son back to me, and had the security of the Galaxy to come back to. It's been a roller coaster and to top it all off, I have counselors crawling up and down my back wanting to make sure that Logan and I are 'ok' through all this. We are not, but we are adjusting to our new life. How can you be okay after your world's been turned up side down? I just want to take a moment to breathe and take inventory. I think....if I'm not being to bold here...that's what you need to do. Breathe and take inventory....." He had heard a lot of stories while on the Miranda and now the Galaxy, but even Fork had to admit that was a new one as far as the stories went. Definitely a much more human departure from the fantastic tales told of conquering rock-monsters, slaying space-faring octupi, and vanquishing dragons that the crew had become accustomed to sharing. He did as instructed, took a deep breath, and let it go. "Better?" The unimpressed smirk of a grin laden with pity made it evident it wasn't... but then again Fork wasn't really trying either. "So... how did you cope with it?" He asked in a much quieter voice then the clear, articulate, authoritative tone he normally used in front of his Marines. "Being away from your son, I mean?" "I didn't cope very well to be honest. Most nights were spent gazing out a port window or window, praying that he 'felt' me. The nights I could get some rest, I had his favorite stuffed animal from when he was a baby squished between my arms in a hug. Days, I'd look at his picture, wondering if he was being taken care of, if he was happy, and when I would be able to provide a safe home for him without the fear of him watching as his dad attacked his mother. I would wonder if he would be able to remember the times he was in his high chair.....hearing me scream as his father knocked me to the ground...punching me. I hoped he didn't see the hurt in my eyes, or the anger at his father when his father was at work. Questions I'll never get answers to I suppose. I found a way to cope, but it wasn't a healthy one Fork. I turned to alcohol to numb the overwhelming feelings of failure after I gave him to my mother to care for while I found a way to escape my husband. Bet that was more of an answer than you bargained for...wasn't it?" 'You can say that again!' he thought to himself, but outwardly he simply gave a compassionate look. Everyone had their own personal demons to slay... some had hordes of them. With Fork it was trying to balance the responsibility of his job and fatherhood while contending with a war, the loss of the person who'd been a pillar of support since he was a teenager and the one constant in his life, oh and all the recent crap. Ophelia's however... defeating something like alcoholism was no small act. Berilyn taught him that first hand. "I'd call that prioritizing. You put your son's life ahead of your own, and therefore recognized his need to escape before you could... and then you made it happen. I'd say that's sound strategic decision making." "Always the Marine....arn't we?" She chided with his 'strategic decision' response. "Enough about me....I sound like I'm a poor sap. How are you...really doing with everything?" "I am what I am, and that's all that I am." The Colonel unwittingly paraphrased the great Popeye as he shrugged. "I've seen better days... I don't really know how else to put it." "Please." She shook her head back and forth while smirking. "Is it the office that has a natural barrier to stop emotions with you guys or something? As soon as you get into the barracks, your emotions shut off? I don't get how guys can just say they are fine when they are obviously not." He raised an eyebrow, not exactly recalling that he ever said he was all right. "I appreciate the concern Ophelia, but I'd need both hands to count off the number of people I've had ask me what you're asking now. The short answer is I 'don't' know. I don't know what I am feeling, what I should be feeling, whatever have you." "Ok. I'm not a counselor, I don't even know why I attempted to be one just then. Listen, I should go. I'll see you around I guess." She stood, taking a moment to look at him then look at his untouched coffee cup before speaking. Opening her mouth, she decided against what she was going to say next and turned to head to the door. He watched her go before letting out a deep breath and running his hand through his hair. Great, now he went and ticked her off... something else to add to the ever-growing pile of problems. Potentially lethal allergies or not, he sure felt like getting drunk right now. Back in her quarters, with Logan away at a play date, Ophelia had time to think. Dangerous. Sighing, she made her way over to a small locking end table that rested at the right end of her sofa. Looking to the left, then to the right, she extracted a small skeleton key from her pocket. Zamora paused, studying the key then unlocking the cabinet. Her left hand wrapped around the neck of the long bottle. As she pulled it from it's hiding/resting place, the amberish liquid swirled around innocently in the glass. She brought the bottle up to her eye level, getting lost in the liquid's color and significant meaning. So much to loose....yet.....the escape would be worth it. Just this once. No one would have to know. Another week of ongoing drills had been kicked off for the 188th. Every six months to one year every Marine unit had to undertake qualifications training to keep up on their training and techniques. It was like going through boot camp yet again... if boot camp had been condensed to one week. The fact that their biannual battery happened to overlap with the monthly physical training test didn't help things either. But at the very least, that kind of physical activity was a cathartic release. Iniara, Arel, Jaal, Branwen, and Ophelia had all in their respective ways attempted to help him... that much he could recognize. Exactly how he was supposed to respond though was still a complete mystery to the Stagnorian Colonel. Aside from Iniara who'd expected nothing, it seemed like everyone had anticipated reactions from him... and whatever they were anticipating clearly wasn't showing. Ergo, he figured, being brutally honest and forthright was most definitely 'not' the way to approach things for now on. First thing's first... last they talked Ophelia was clearly upset about something, so that needed to be resolved. Taking a deep breath, he prepped himself for whatever it was he was going to have to deal with, and pressed the chime. Rubbing her eyes, Zamora propped herself up on the couch. "Come." She mumbled. Upon viewing who it was, she shot up off the sofa, attempting to straighten her appearance as best she could. "I...wasn't expecting you." "I noticed." The natural Stagnorian penchant for quasi-sarcasm kicking in to full gear, if momentarily. His eyes almost immediately found the exposed bottle, but he was skillful enough to make it seem as if he hadn't seen it. "Just wanted to see what you were up to... I didn't disturb you, did I?" "Sleeping....but it's okay. Sit...." She offered. "Can I get you anything?" He shook his head, and found a seat on a chair. "I wanted to apologize for before. It was obvious you were upset." "I was. I thought that we could talk.....about things. I apologize if I assumed that you wanted to. It was a vibe that I took for something else." "Don't be sorry." He gave a dismissive wave. "I appreciate the thought, I really do. But it's something I've been thinking about all the time... I really don't want to have to relive it for others too, as it were." "I can relate to that." Zamora stated simply. "I just wanted to attempt to move on, without everyone sticking their noses in, asking if I was okay. You know what helped me? Doing something weird...unusual." 'Yeah, because dropping out of a perfectly good starship in a freaking torpedo behind enemy lines was all a part of the regular job.' Fork joked to himself and cracked a smile. "I hope that drinking wasn't your idea?" Her eyes darted over to the bottle, then back to him. "It's a reminder." Leaning over, she grabbed the bottle before lifting it. "I've been sober for....a long time." She paused. "It helps me keep myself on track believe it or not." God, she felt like such a looser admitting that she had a problem. People dealt with issues in different ways, for her, it was to drink. Putting the bottle back, she offered a small smile. "Now you know the lawyers secret. She's not perfect." The words 'ofcourse not, she's a lawyer' climbed to the tip of his tongue, but Fork bit them back figuring this was one of those times where sparing a verbal jab was warranted. "It used to be a dark secret. You've said you've beaten it... correct?" She nodded, inching up her sleeve to reveal a simple bracelet with what looked like an ancient coin dangling from it. "Proof that I'm sober. Alcoholics are always tempted to go back Fork, it's a daily struggle. I just thank God I was able to find a sponsor and am able to attend the Galaxy's AA meetings. At times, those damn meetings are the only thing that anchor me." Everyone had a certain level of self-discipline. Fork himself had always susceptible to the temptation of sneaking a piece of cinnamon apple pie before Berilyn declared it 'appropriately cooled', but he couldn't imagine ever being beholden to alcohol the way that Ophelia was suggesting. Then again, it might have had something to do with that whole physiological intolerance thing. Ophelia paused, glancing at her chronometer. Straitening her posture, she offered Fork a small, yet timid smile. "Speaking of meetings.....I need to get ready to attend one." "Oh, I'm sorry." He gave an apologetic smile and stood up. At least that ended a rather worrisome period of silence. "Thank you for your time, Ophelia. And... ummm..." he really couldn't think of any particularly good way of putting it, so he went with the simple way. "Keep up the good work." "Don't worry about anything, somehow, and in someway, you'll find your way through your tunnel of trials." "I appreciate the thought." His smile took on a more friendly quality as he left. He doubted very much that he was going to find his way anywhere, anytime soon. At least the Galaxy was a good place to be lost. She watched him go, her eyes narrowing slightly as his form diminished. 'Finally...alone' The woman thought. The lie about the meeting, it was all part and partial. Extracting the bottle from it's hiding place, Zamora's mind went black. Actions as extracting the cork, getting a glass, and replicating ice were all mechanical now. She needed, desired this escape from her life as she knew it. Placing the items down on the communication panel, she sighed heavily with the weight of a thousand worries. Sitting, her eyes glazed over momentarily. The tears came as her tears often did, forcing regret, doubt, and fear to the surface of her expressionless face as she poured the liquid into the glass. TBC 6326 |