Star Trek: Season 10

[wraith1701]

The Romulan vessel slowly spun in the darkness.  With its ravaged, raptor-like pylons, it resembled a half-stripped bird carcass drifting in a sluggish stream.  The wreck's gray-green hull seemed to briefly shudder, then buckle ever so slightly in on itself.  A sudden, eldritch flare of light lit the hulk from within, briefly eclipsing the glow of the stars around it.  In perfect sync with the blast of energy, the ship's sorely strained hull expanded.  In what looked like blatant defiance of the laws of physics, the exotic alloys comprising the ship's hull  seemed to stretch, expanding in an attempt to contain the violent energies erupting within her.  Finally, the tortured shell yielded; seamless joints and welds split like the skin of an overripe fruit.  Stressed metal warped, buckled, and tore free from the dying vessel.  Finally liberated, the terrible power that once gave life to the ship expanded outward in a blazing sphere.  At the heart of the sphere, the remains of the transport seemed to ignite with a tragic, phoenix-like beauty. 

In a heartbeat, the sphere flickered, then began to fall in on itself, dragging with it the charred remnants of the Romulan transport.  With exponentially increasing speed, the shining globe of energy shrank ever smaller, eventually collapsing into a pinprick of light, and then abruptly winking out, leaving no visible trace of its existence. 

On one of the Arabella's rear-facing observation decks, A small, pointy-eared youth looked on in slack-jawed fascination as the distant Romulan vessel erased itself from the starscape.  At a slight distance behind the child, a tall, stern-faced human kept stoic vigil. 

"That is why you had to leave the ship," K'Tan said.  "Do you understand?" 

Like a surreal chorus, a perfect Rihannsu translation of K'Tan's words echoed back, emitted by the civilian commbadge pinned to the youth's shirt.  Nevertheless, the child's only response was to cast a wary glance in K'Tan's direction.

K'Tan gave a frustrated sigh.  "Very well."  He turned to the nearby replicator.  "Computer, one ihor'yeho, extra-sweet, and an osol twist."  At the mention of the fruit drink and the tart confection, the child's demeanor switched from wary to alertly interested. 

Ha, K'Tan thought.  At least I know the kid can hear. 

As the replicator effect subsided, the child snatched up the juice and the treat.  Despite his best effort, K'Tan felt himself grinning.  "Come on," he said.  "There's a nice lady I'd like you to meet.  She might have treats for you as well."  As he headed for the exit, K'Tan casually glanced back, and was pleased to see the child cautiously trailing him.  Pausing now and then to let his young charge catch up, K'Tan made his way to the sickbay.

I hope Doctor Drett has better luck getting this kid to open up.

[iceman]

Dr Peterson Busied himself in sickbay helping out were needed, he fixed up scrapes and abrasions, broken bones and lacerations and was their to answer questions when needed.

Casey made sure that the medical staff on duty had all the blood and supplies they needed and walked around and made sure the patients had everything they needed even if it was only a little reassurance that they would be OK.

The sickbay was a hub of efficiency the doctors and nurses worked side-by-side instinctively knowing what the other person needed while  dancing around each other as they went from patient to patient diagnosing and repairing their injuries.

Casey watched this for a few minutes secretly wondering if he had made a mistake, leaving the medical department for a chance at command. He muttered to himself quietly " Only time will tell." as he went on his way helping an orderly bring in another patient to sick bay.

[Jen]

Doctors Drett and Myella Peterson stepped out of the surgery ward as a medic pushed their unconscious patient into recovery. Senator Navash's stab wound had been critical, but fortunately the blade had missed her vital organs. The cellular microsutures put in place had stopped the bleeding and the Senator was well on her way to recovery.  Ryla flexed her wrist as they made their way onto the floor. Casey Peterson had been the one to mend the fractured bones, for she could not hold the regenerator properly to perform the task herself. It had been her first introduction to the bridge commander. He was Doctor Myella Peterson's husband and by the way he moved about sickbay, he was eager to help.  

"Thank you, Mr. Peterson," she said as he helped the medic move Senator Nevash to her biobed. The taller man focused two pools of dark blue on the Trill.  Ryla's eyes shifted to his civilian clothing and noticed a few drops of green blood on the white fabric of his tunic. He glanced down at it as Myella lightly chided him about wearing his good shirts during medical emergencies.
He laughed, "I didn't expect you to ask for my help..."

Ryla smiled to them both, "why don't you two go to the Afterburner. You're officially off duty, Myella."
"If you need any more help, I'd be happy to assist," said Casey.

"I think we have things from here, but I'll let you know. Gamma shift is less than eight hours from now and you'll need to be rested when you resume your duties as bridge commander, sir."

Casey's brows lifted as if he had only then remembered his posting—his smile broadened. "If we end up in the lounge, maybe you could join us when you get off your shift."

"I may. I have a date later...I think..." She had two actually. One with her friend Galdar and one with Lieutenant Olson, made that morning before she left for the transport. She had forgotten about poor Galdar when she made arrangements with Jared and hoped he wouldn't be put off by the third wheel she had inadvertently added to the mix. "Maybe I'll see you two there."

As the couple left Ryla to her work, she removed the surgical cap and jacket and entered her office. The nurses and med techs had the situation well in hand, now all that remained for the Trill to do was make her report. The first thing she did, when she sat behind her desk, was compose a communiqué to Lieutenant Commander D'Callan detailing the information she learned while on the transport.  An aid informed her that Senator Ketleck, who was in her sickbay with a head wound, had dealt the blow to Senator Nevash. She gazed out the transparent walls of her office and sited the security officers standing just outside. They were lingering about, visiting, not the sort of posture a dubious Romulan passenger would find opposing, but their presence put the doctor at ease. At least, she thought, if Ketleck and Nevash wake up and decided to kill one another, I won't have to stop them myself. She gripped her wrist, remembering the crushing hold the anonymous Romulan woman had effortlessly mustered, and hoped she wouldn't be met a second time by that hateful woman or anyone else with vengeful intentions.

 

[wraith1701]

As K'Tan and the Romulan child traveled deeper into the bustling heart of the Arabella, the corridors grew progressively more crowded and busy.  Faced with the multi-hued collection of uniformed humans and other aliens, the child slowly drew closer to the most familiar face in this new world- that of the surly looking Second Officer.  As they entered the turbolift, K'Tan's combadge chimed for his attention.

"K'Tan here; go ahead."

A familiar, sultry contralto answered.  "This is Lt. Stass.  Just checking to see if we're still on for dinner later."

The hint of a smile lit K'Tan's face as an image of the statuesque, raven-haired security officer flashed in his mind. The athletically nubile Lt. never failed to quicken his pulse.  His grin widened as he pictured her piercing green eyes, and the striking contrast they made with her coffee colored skin.  That woman's better than a double shot of raktijino; and twice as sweet, he thought.  "I certainly hope so," K'Tan answered.  He glanced down at the child at his side.  "I'm officially off duty now.  Just dropping off a package at sickbay."

"Good," she replied.  "You pick out dinner, and I get to decide on dessert. Stass out."

K'Tan quickened his pace, and glanced back at his young guest.  "Come along now, hurry up."

Eventually, the two arrived at deck 5.  Thanks to the high standards of her crew, the Arabella had a reputation of being one of the more tightly run ships in the fleet.  The crew took pride in their home, and it showed in every detail; from the immaculate, military-grade carpeting covering her decks to the pristine gleam of the fixtures and LCARS panels interspersed on the walls.  But although an 'Inspection-Ready' level of order and maintenance was the norm throughout the ship, all areas paled in comparison to the spotless, antiseptically clean deck housing sickbay.  K'Tan gave a slight nod of approval as he strode towards the main entrance.

The transparent-aluminum  doors were so spotless, one would be hard pressed to even see them were it not for the winged-staff of Aesculapius painted on them in gleaming white. As the pair approached, a seam appeared, bisecting the symbol as the twin doors drew apart.  Inside, the brightly lit bay was a simmering storm of controlled activity; white clad doctors and nurses wove in and out as they attended their patients, and charts were passed off with the precision of a well-drilled relay team.  K'Tan made his way to the Petty Officer serving as receptionist; the non-com snapped to attention at his approach. "May I help you sir?"

"Yes," K'Tan replied.  "This child is one of the evacuees from the Romulan transport. He has no guardian that I know of, and he needs a checkup.  Considering the delicate nature of our rescue mission, I want to ensure that he gets the best attention available.  Does Dr. Drett has time to see him?"

[Jen]

 Joint post by Jen, Dadandersen, Just X and Moyer777

Sevryll turned a corner in the corridor and was joined by Counselor Margon who quickly fell into step beside her. The Bolian had been visiting various departments to gauge the crew's morale, "how did your meetings go Mr. Margon?"

"Very well Captain!"  said the Bolian.  "I believe we should be okay.  The majority are simply uneasy because of the past tensions, but all are willing to help.  They are with you."


At the end of the passage, Aeric stood waiting at the entrance to the shuttle bay. Even from the distance she observed him from, she could see that his uniform appeared dirty and tattered. A milk run? She projected through the bond with a dry Vulcan wit.

More like a normal day at the office, he smiled as he watched the captain and counselor draw closer. Everyone did a great job.

Well done, she replied.

A few crewmen were bustling in and out of the bay carrying supplies. As the Captain and Counselor neared the entrance, a science officer gained Sevryll's attention, "Captain," said Herm, "I'm anxious to begin the interview process, if..."

"Mr.?" She interjected.

"Hermaratlo, ma'am."

"Yes, of course. You are our Anthropology and Archaeology officer." She could see a fervent enthusiasm in his beaming smile and bright eyes. "Ensign Hermaratlo, perhaps you should take the names of our guests for the ship's records instead. Do not harass them with questions this day. They have been through a number of traumatic experiences and I do not wish to add to their discomfort. I am sure you can appreciate the delicate nature of our situation..."

The Captain was right of course. Herm had been so anxious to prove himself to his captain and fellow crewmen that he hadn't stopped to consider their guests. From the corridor, he could hear the chaos in the shuttle bay. By the sound of it, there would be anger, frustration, and confusion. The last thing they needed was some hyper ensign bugging them with a lot of annoying questions about their lost home world. Cataloging the names would allow him do what he should have done in the first place, just talk to them. There would be plenty of time later to ask questions. Who knows? He might even make a friend or two.

"Yes, ma'am!" Said Herm, nearly shouting as he snapped to attention. After receiving a nod from the captain, he allowed them to continue their march toward the shuttlebay and followed on their heels, happy to have something constructive to do.


As they proceeded toward their destination, they were joined by Commander James who gave Margon a polite nod and the Captain a broad smile. The three senior officers, with the ensign not far behind, then crossed the threshold of Shuttle Bay 2 and were met by a cacophony of frustrated voices. Aeric looked over the crowded shuttle bay. Engineers moved along side the refugees in their efforts to complete the transformation to temporary living quarters. The individuals that comprised the mob ranged from infant to elder, from clean to bruised and dirty and Aeric could sense their apprehension. The room was filled with those that had never experienced contact with member species of the Federation. Their only knowledge originated from propaganda used by their leaders to paint their saviors as their enemies. It was the same prejudiced undercurrent that flowed through the Arabella. Officers and enlisted on their very ship had grown up in a society that considered the refugees as tyrants and murderers.

It wasn't until the last decade that any real progress had been made to alter that image. The alliance with the Imperial Romulan State had brought new perspective to how some of the Federation viewed their neighbors, but there were still others that only saw what they were taught the Star Empire represented. Aeric had been aboard the Tiberius during her mission to Romulan space as they helped plant the seeds that would become the Imperial State. It was during their first encounter with the woman who would become empress that they made their impression on her. And it was by the missing empress's diplomatic invitation that the fleet was assembled. In those brief encounters and communications with Donatra over the years, Aeric had come to find the Empress a person of great honor. Now it was time for the Federation to stand by their ally, even if she was still missing. It was time for them to stand by the Romulan people, even if they didn't believe they needed the help.

"Where are we going!?" An elder voice called out to the officers. "Where are you taking us?!" Shouted a woman.

[X]

Joint post by Jen, Dadandersen, Just X and Moyer777



A torrent of additional questions merged with the den of defiant people. Voices blurred into a white noise of inquiries, accusations, and raw emotions. Aeric cleared his throat and glance to his wife.

With a combination of vocal strength and psychic ability, the XO spoke, "Could I have your attention please?"

The ambient levels of sound began to lower as Commander James continued his call for attention. It was a technique that he had learned in the trenches of battle and he perfected it in their home to focus the attention of their three children. Each further application of the technique lowered the level of sound in the room, and with it, Aeric's voice. Speak only loud enough for them to hear, but soft enough for them to have to listen.

"I am quite certain that you all have a great many questions and we're here to provide you with answers," Aeric said in a voice now only slightly above conversational level. "I only ask that you respect those near you and allow them to hear the answer that you are looking for."

For the most part the evacuees were still irate, but their protests had fallen silent. Sevryll took the opportunity to interpose, "I am Captain Sevryll," she gestured to the El-Aurian/Nacine and Bolian standing beside her,  "this is my first officer, Commander James, and the Ship's Counselor, Mr. Margon."

The Commander gave a polite smile to the mob on the mention of his name but remained silent. He had cleared the path for the captain to assert her authority into the situation and knew his role was to provide the tools needed to continue the dialog. With a thought, he communicated telepathically with his wife, We have a copy of their replicator database and are in the process of adding Romulan food, drink, and clothing selections to the public use replicators. For now the additions are limited and will not include alcoholic beverages or other recreational drugs. More will be added as we determine any risk potential.

It wasn't much, but it might make the difference in the perception of their guests. A meal and fresh clothing, from their own people, could be exactly what they needed to convince their guests that they were not prisoners. It was an instance where Commander James truly preferred the carrot to the stick.

"Information from your ship's database was transferred to our own in order to better serve you. We are in the process of adding menus and clothing selections from those files to our replicators. For the time being, alcohol and other drugs will be excluded. In the mean time you are free to patron our ship's lounge and other recreational areas."

A grumble went up at the mention of a transfer of information from the transport, "How do we know you haven't stolen vital information?"

Sevryll's ear found the man before her eye fell on him. She turned her head in his direction and nodded, "Our mission is simply to offer assistance. The only 'vital' information we obtained included star charts that will enable us to take you where you intend to go," she patiently replied.

"Where are you taking us?!" Shouted another voice.

"Where ever you want," replied Margon in a reassuring tone.

Sevryll nodded, "perhaps it would be best if you elect a representative that we may consult with regards to your individual needs." She nodded to Ensign Hermaratlo standing quietly near the door, "Mr. Hermaratlo will take your names for our ship's records. You may also dictate a preferred destination and representative."

The commander nodded in quiet agreement with the captain. He had to bite his tongue to stop himself from pointing out the obvious to their passengers. Both sides of the Romulan empires had suffered fatal blows. It was highly unlikely that the transport contained critical information of any sort and he was quite sure that if there had been, after the ultra nova that information would have been rendered more than useless. These people had been attacked by what appeared to be their own military and centuries of hate still had them assuming the worst of the individuals that came to aid them.

After a few more minutes, Sevryll and Aeric left the Ensign and Couneselor to gather the details required of the evacuees. The Captain and First Officer's shift had ended, but there was still more work to be done. Next, they would visit the Senators. Somehow Sevryll knew that meeting would go less smoothly. It was her experience that politicians, no matter their species, often held higher opinions of themselves than their constituents had.

[Feathers]

Galdar stepped back from the Conn letting his Beta shift counterpart slide smoothly into the newly vacated seat. The normal handover and course review routine had taken a little longer than normal due to the debris in the star system they were leaving so Galdar found himself as the only Alpha shift officer still on the Bridge. Without any of his departing colleagues to exchange pleasantries with, he found himself in no hurry to depart.

Stepping up to the upper deck, he paused by the security booth, turning to look back at the panoramic vista of stars presented by the sector of Romulan space spread before them on the view screen. This area wasn't that densely cluttered with stars but even so, the screen presented a wealth of rainbow hues and shades to those who cared to take the time to look. The speed of warp travel normally obscured this beauty from view for all but the briefest periods of travel so Galdar was determined to take advantage of this view while it was available. His passion remained for flying in all of its forms, but in the last few months he'd started to take a little time to acquire a better appreciation for what it was that he was flying through, past or around.

Blinking, he finally turned again and stepped towards the lift, its doors hissing open at his approach.

"Officers Quarters, Deck 8", he said quietly as the doors closed, falling silent again as the car hummed on its way.

[Jen]

Joint post by Jen, and Just X

That went much better than I expected, Aeric thought to his wife on their way to meet with the Senators. It's going to be nice to have a few more vulcanoid children aboard to interact with the kids. I wouldn't mind a Watraii and Reman presence as well. Our children should have an opportunity to experience all four aspects of the Vulcanoid societies."

Aeric had put some effort in studying all the Vulcanoid species and quickly came to understand that while they might seem different, there were many aspects that crossed the cultures. There were traits that seemed reflected in the talents and abilities of their children—aspects that were similar to those of the once united race of beings. Aeric could not help but notice that the hive-like cooperation the twins displayed, was in many ways reminiscent of the martial discipline characterized in the Watraii. Aria, their eldest, often displayed attributes that were typified by pre-Surok Vulcans. She had the heart of a healer, but the mind of a technocrat. It made his own heart a little heavy to imagine what their eldest son would have been like had he lived, but the pain had dimmed over the years. Now, in the presence of all the Romulans around them, the XO could not help but wonder what influence they would impart to his children.



Murynn and Nevaul scurried out the door of their parent's quarters—by their laughter, Aria had no doubt their minds were bent on mischief. The oldest of Sevryll and Aeric's three offspring kept her emotions in check as she followed briskly behind them. Brex had invited she and her siblings to help bathe his dog, which was the reason for their unaccompanied journey through the passage way. The twelve-year-old boy and girl had become fast friends during the first days of the mission, making the new posting aboard Arabella all the more entertaining. The Counselor's adopted son always had a new game to teach them and on top of that, he had a big, slobbery dog.

Aria's dark brown hair was pulled back in a series of braids that her mother had made earlier that morning—they swung on her back as she bounded after the younger children, "Slow down," she commanded in a voice that imitated her parents'. "Mother said we shouldn't run in the corridors." Her warning had no affect on the five-year-olds who disappeared around the bend ahead of her. She suppressed a sigh, though her genitally arched brows dipped in frustration. Soon after, Aria smiled as she witnessed Rory appear before the twins causing them to halt their marathon. "You heard your sister...no running."

The boy's faltered smile swiftly returned, "we're going to wash a dog." His identical twin sister nodded enthusiastically, "Brex said we can help."

The holographic nanny smirked, "Ah, yes...Brex. That boy has a million ways of shirking his chores. He wants you to wash the dog so he won't have to..." She shook her head, the children seemed no less deterred by the prospect of doing someone else's dirty work. "Next, he'll have a new game planned for you called: "clean my room for me," and you'll jump at the chance to do it for points that count for nothing or for a record breaking time that he doesn't actually keep."

Aria knew it was true, but Brex was one of the only children aboard Arabella and they were so hungry for the company of peers that she chose to ignore his tricks.

"Come along..." said Rory as she took the twins' hands in her own, "I'll make sure he cleans his own room."

[moyer777]

Joint post by Jen, and Moyer777

If Aria was like her mother, Murynn and Nevaul were very much like her father—always looking for adventure and hardly ever weighing the consequences. Both children were, for all intensive purposes, well mannered, they were just a busier than most children their age. Physically, the twins were a blend of both of their parents. Their bright eyes were a color that seemed to shift depending on environment they were in. Their ears were tipped in points like Aria's, but their brows lacked the up-swept appearance. Murynn's raven hair was long like her sisters, and it was often worn in Vulcan braids. Opting against the tradition of his mother's people, Nevaul's dark hair was instead cut to look just like his father's, and it was currently a mess due to his rush to help Brex.

Rory stopped with the children just outside the Counselor's quarters and rang the chime. When the door wasn't immediately answered, the children dashed through the entry, leaving Rory and Aria stading alone in the corridor.

The tall Bajoran boy had his back turned to them when the twins came running in.  Sumo the black lab, leapt from his arms as Brex was attempting to usher him into the head. 
 
"Hi guys!" said Brex, still trying to gather the washing supplies that had fallen to the floor, "I've got a couple of other things you can do while I get this stuff ready, I hope you don't mind getting wet."
 
Rory, who had stepped into the room,  tilted her head to one side and glanced to Aria as if to say, "I told you so." She gave the Bajoran a warning gaze before she turned to go, "Don't be late to dinner." The holographic nanny vanished, leaving the children to their fun.

"Ahemmm," came Aria's soft voice.  Brex turned his eye from the space that Rory had once filled, to see the Captain's oldest daughter looking at him with a single arched brow that was meant to punctuate the question that followed. "They are already bathing your dog, must they do your other chores as well?" The subtle smile on her face was at odds with the disapproving sound of her words.
 
"Well, a guy can try can't he?"  He grinned.  She was very pretty, which made him a little shier than usual. He tried not to let it affect him, but it did. She had been so nice to him over the past few weeks and he appreciated it, but she was right...he was always talking her little brother and sister into doing the chores Margon left for him to do. But it was so easy!  A tad bit embarrassed by his less than pure motives, he stumbled on his words,   "Ah...you guys get Sumo into the head. I have a tub ready for him. The sonic shower gives him dandruff, but I just can't seem to get him into it the water."

Nevaul produced a rubberized bone from his pocket and threw it across the room.  Sumo went bolting for it and toppled over the couch.  Brex shook his head and Aria watched in amazement as the canine knocked over various pieces of furniture... This, she was sure, would make them very late for dinner.


Finally Nevaul retrieved the slimy dog chew and threw it towards the door of the head, and the huge black dog bounded after it. The twins dashed in the room behind Sumo, giggling as they ran.  There was a splashing sound and more laughter followed by silence. Aria was certain the silence was not a good thing and darted through the obstacle course of upended furniture to put her head through the door. Her brother and sister had, of course, ended up in the tub with Sumo. The dog plunged his head beneath the water in an attempt to find the chew toy, blowing bubbles that made the children laugh again. The twins were soaked from head to toe and soap suds topped their heads.  Sumo abruptly pulled his head  from the water wearing a curious look. The bone was now in his mouth and string of drool laced with bubbles swung as he cocked his head sideways, as if to say "What? Am I in trouble?" 


Laughing with them, Brex tossed the twins a scrub brush and some shampoo. "Ok, make this good. You're already wet, so scrub him till he is all clean!" The Counselor's son grinned and  from the corner of his eye he could see that Aria was almost smiling.  He liked that.  It made her eyes sparkle.

[Shelby D]

Joint post by Meds and Crystal

Shelby Daelen waited at the turbo lift, as she stood there she wondered what might be taking so long, resigning that it would never arrive, the security officer took a deep breath, she was even on the verge of heading off to find another lift or a jefferies tube when the doors parted; revealing the Chief of Security; Joe D'Callan. 

Not wanting to stare at him; Shelby gave him a smile laced with patience then the woman entered the small compartment and crossed to the opposite side of the wall: greeting him appropriately.   "Commander." For although she had been looking for the man she didn't want to give him the impression that that had been her goal.

"Ensign." was his even reply.

The doors shut and Shelby ordered the computer to the deck with her quarters on them.

A silence fell between them for a time, then the Chief asked. "Where'd you dart off to earlier?"

"Just some business for security." She said keeping her eyes forward.

The hum of the lift became their background as both returned to their own thoughts.

While Joe reached up and unsnapped his uniform collar then he loosened it. Shelby noticed this out of the corner of her eye and she said nothing.

The moment the door opened Joe said briskly. "Walk with me" and without waiting D'Callan moved out into the corridor.

Keeping up with the chief, the ensign portrayed the picture of composure. As they walked a question came to her mind. "What is going to happen to Nalah Jarok?"

Joseph concentrated as he walked "The Captain wants her held for a few more hours." glancing over at the dark haired ensign he added evenly. "Sevryll has made it very clear she does not want any problems." he smiled at her as he pressed his hand against the door panel and it swished open with a gentle noise.  "I know it's difficult for you but these things make us harder"

As D'Callan walked in, Shelby followed him, her eyes lighting with rebellion. Upon the door hissing shut the young woman stopped short and stood at attention. "Permission to speak freely, Sir."

"Granted." Joe retrieved a refreshingly cool glass of water from the replicator and turned to face the woman whom he could see he had riled up.

"'I know it's difficult for you?'" She said while trying to contain her annoyance with another one of his 'remarks' about her.  "What's that supposed to mean?"

"I think you know exactly what that means." he said with calm as he moved closer to her.

Her eyes scanned his blue-green gaze and she narrowed her eyes as she glared at him. "I don't think that is complete assessment. You haven't exactly been the model 'chief of security'...let's see...There was that time on Reven Six --"

Gazing into the ensigns eyes, Joe found himself intrigued even more by this woman and he admitted to himself that there was no mistaking it; she was definitely a live wire. Still there was business to attend. "That may be true. The difference here though is that I am not being placed in charge of our Romulan 'guest'." Needing to move his thoughts from the inappropriate, in regards to the striking woman, Joe emptied his glass then returned it to the replicator and turned. "You are - You already have a 'relationship' of sorts with this Nalah so we don't need to bother with introductions."

Joseph stopped outside of his bedroom door and his tone changed slightly; becoming more commanding again. "Now, head back down there, keep yourself out of her way. Soon as the Captain gives the orders for her release, escort her to her quarters and keep an eye on her. I'm trusting you here Shelby. Don't let me down." he smiled at her as he let her depart, then he entered his room.

Shelby stood straight, pivoted and then left the room.

Joseph, in turn, stepped back and leant against the door frame; to watch her leave. He thought about her and her relationship towards the Romulan, and he wondered, maybe it would mirror his own feelings towards the Cardassian who played on his mind.

[Bryancd]

Joint post by Shelby Daelen and Bryancd


Nalah sat at the lone table in the sparse room she had been assigned by the Vulcan Captain. Besides the table and two chairs, the room had only a bed and a small window which looked out towards the ship's starboard nacelle. The only other item in the room was a simple computer terminal with access to only entertainment programs and files. There wasn't even a replicator so she assumed food would be brought to her. It was still a prison, although better accommodated than the brig.

A sudden flash of light was shown through the window. She jumped up and stared out the port to see the final demise of the cargo ship which had been her previous....prison. Her lot hadn't improved much over the past 12 hours, she mused.

After getting the Captain's orders to release the Romulan woman, Ensign Daelen had arranged for a sparse room and had her moved into them. Now, entering the quarters, without announcing herself, Shelby turned her head back slightly as the door hissed shut behind her. Placing her hands behind her back the officer was prepared for anything. "I hope the accommodations are satisfactory." there was a non-committal grunt from the woman but little else. "It seems that you and I are fated to spend some more time together."

"A distinctly unpleasant proposition," Nalah replied. "I'm sure you serve your Terran masters well." She walked back to the chair and sat down.

Lifting a dark, sculpted brow curiously, Shelby smirked. "Your attempts to demean me because I have found a place where I belong are beneath you."

Nalah looked up at Shelby, her eye's belied the truth she so desperately wanted to hide. "What do you know of 'belonging' half breed? Were we on Romulus right now, even I would have a higher social rank than you....and you know nothing of me," she said, her eyes looking off back towards the portal.

"I know enough." was all that Daelen said softly. Still in her tone there was something else, that if Nalah was listening, she could hear; understanding. Considering all things, as she stood there, Shelby weighed out if she should try to involve the Romulan in the search for the truth about her Father just yet? She'd probably see it as intrusion and definitely none of her business, at least while the ensign had little proof she would.

Nalah scoffed at the comment. "While you have lived in comfort with your human and Vulcan masters, we have struggled to survive." She shifted in her seat to face Shelby again. "Tell me," she challenged, "Once the Federation conquers the remnants of the Empire, have they promised to make you ennarain? Command of your own captured Warbird?" She laughed. "A half breed at the helm!" Nalah quieted then punctuated once again.

"You know nothing of me," then she turned her head away.

"Nalah Jarok, only child of Admiral Alidar Jarok and his mate N'alae Jarok, born in the Romulus city of Ra'tleihfi in the year 2366. Your family had rich, deep roots in the Romulan High Command, through both of your parents. Your Father was a well respected leader until his 'maverick' nature earned him a one way ticket to less glorious postings. Less than a year after your birth and for some unknown reason your Father defected to the Federation."

The ensign paused to let Nalah absorb what she was revealing she knew of her. "Your family was shamed, when word returned that your Father had 'died of natural causes' this made his defection seem even more of a rejection to your race as well as your family. You were branded traitors to the empire. Despite this, you were raised on Romulus by your mother. You were both forced into the slums, you fought your way through your childhood and your life and almost as a counter move to prove your worth; you studied hard and proved yourself to be a loyal Romulan. Even managing to be taught at the heel of Commodore Pardek."

Another pause brought the Romulan woman's expressive eyes to bear on Shelby. "I know much of you. I know the pain of fighting ones way through life. I know of the shame and don't think for a moment that you are any better than me." The stare of finality that the ensign gave Nalah warned her to not go further with her barbs. "I do not have 'Federation Masters' as you call them. They are my equals and that is more than you can say about the Romulans whom you now ally yourself with."

Nalah turned in the chair her back now facing Shelby. "Get out," she said.

A gossamer slip of a knowing smile just touched the corners of the ensign's lips as she pivoted on her heel and moved outside to guard the door; Leaving the Romulan to mull over her options.

[Meds]

Legate Rayan stood with arms folded and looked across the room at the Romulan senators. "Gentlemen, it appears my work with you is still not over. I dare say our generous hosts will fill your minds with hope, and why not. Humans are such fond creatures of the melodramatic" He smiled as he walked towards them and several senators inched their way along the seat. "Why how kind of you, and look you've made my seat nice and warm" he grinned and sat down clasping his hands on the desk.

[Meds]

JOINT POST BY JEN, JUSTX & MEDS

Joseph left his quarters quickly and pulled his nice clean uniform down. He tapped his com badge as he entered the turbo lift, "Computer, locate Captain Sevryll."

The computer responded with an immediate  reply "Captain Sevryll is on Deck 2 section 6."

Joseph looked up, "ah, the senators and. . . Deck 2."

As the turbo lift doors opened Joseph jogged out and strode down the corridor, his boots hit the soft carpet dampening any sounds. Seeing the Captain and first officer ahead, he picked up his pace. It had been a long day. The transition from Alpha to Beta shift had come and gone, but their work had yet to be completed. They had returned to their quarters so that the Commander could change his attire before they met with the senators.

"Good evening, Mr D'Callan," the captain said softly.

Joseph smiled as fell into pace them,  "Evening, ma'am...sir.  I'm never going to be able to sneak up on you two, am I? May I speak to you both before you see the senators?"

Aeric nodded to Joseph "Of course, walk with us."

As the three proceeded towards their destination, Joseph cleared his mind and thought carefully. "It's the Cardassian. He'll be with the Romulan senators."

"Why is he not with the other refugees?" the First Officer inquired. He had no problems with the man's species. There were Cardassians in Starfleet and they were exemplary officers. Having fought with and against them in his past, Aeric held a respect for their martial skills and commitment to cause. "And what he's doing in Romulan space? Have we sent any requests to Cardassian Central Command for information on this Legate?"

Joseph nodded to Commander James, "He made it perfectly clear that he was a diplomat. It seemed prudent to have him with the senators, especially since he was with them when we discovered him. I've sent a request for information from Central Command, but as of yet we've had no response. I have a feeling that he'll be quite insistent on have a private audience with you both. He may want to continue the conversation he started with you aboard the Romulan craft, Commander."

Aeric adjusted the tunic of his fresh uniform and nodded, "I'll be more than happy to speak with him, but unless he can show us verifiable diplomatic credentials, he's going to the temporary housing with the others."

The first officer then turned his attention to the captain, "My primary goal is to come to an understanding with the senators and the civilians. I advise that we start there and if there is time left, we deal with this Legate."

"Agreed. Thank you Joseph," said the Vulcan informally.

Joseph smiled and nodded to the two.

Aeric exhaled slowly and stepped through the doors of the observation lounge. His eyes slowly scanned the room and the people within. Once inside, the commander moved to the side of the doorway to allow Sevryll full view of those assembled and so that he could better gauge the reactions on their faces at the sight of the Vulcan captain.

Upon seeing Aeric, Legate Rayan immediately recognized him from the evacuation. He stood from the table and approached them. Offering his hand to Aeric, he smiled. "Nice to see you again Commander, I must say you do know how to throw a get together....and this one is quite good." He turned his eyes to that of the Vulcan's.

Commander James gave a polite nod to the Legate, but followed the protocol of letting the captain address the passengers first.

The Vulcan nodded in greeting to the taller being and spoke to them all,  "I am Captain Sevryll. This is my first officer, Commander Aeric James." A few Romulans rose while others remained in their chairs, studying her with much circumspect.

"Please, be seated sir," she said to the Cardassian before moving with confidence to a chair at the end of the table.

Rayan smiled at the Vulcan and shook his head slightly as he walked around the table—refusing to sit, he leaned against the wall and folded his arms, "how quaint."

Aeric raised a brow at the Cardassian, "Is your universal translator broken? No matter." With a gracious smile the executive officer turned from the Cardassian to the chief of security, "Mr. D'Callan, could you please escort Legate Rayan to the temporary dorms in shuttle bay two? After we finish our talks with the senators, we will see if we can find the time to speak with our Cardassian contingent of guests."

Joseph strode forward wearing a smile, though he hated the sight of Cardassians. "If you'd be so kind to follow me, sir."

The Romulan Senators said nothing as Rayan's eye roamed them all.  Joseph gestured towards the open door, but the Legate simply looked at him and spoke to the Vulcan. "You're hospitality has been noted, Captain. I'll leave you with your.....guests." As he pushed himself from the wall and walked towards the chief of security, he stopped by Commander James, "Be sure to read your captain a story before you go to bed. Won't you?" He laughed and continued for the door. "Come along Mr D'callan, lets leave the children to play."

Sevryll glanced at the Legate with a look that was as penetrating as it was brief.  Inwardly, she marveled at the rough nature of his implication and wondered what he knew of her relationship to the Commander. A second later, she dismissed his comment as a poor attempt at wit. Instead, he had sounded sexist; a rare trait within the Federation.

Joseph coughed slightly, and looked at Aeric. The Commander's prismatic eyes followed the Cardassian, even as he bit his tongue from asking D'Callan to escort the man to the brig until his status could be sorted out. That or put him in an escape pod and let him fend for himself. If the Cardassian expected special treatment, or even time to speak with the captain, he was mistaken. In fact, his lack of respect had quickly earned him a place very low on the priority list. "Mr. D'Callan, could you please swing by the brig on the way to the shuttle bay and give the Legate a tour? I'm quite sure that he will cause himself to take up residency there before we complete this mission. I think it might be best that he get a feel for it now."

Smiling slightly Joseph nodded to his XO "It would be a pleasure sir" and he turned to catch up with the Legate.

[wraith1701]

joint post by Jen & wraith1701--



K'Tan and the Romulan child stood in the entrance to Sickbay. K'Tan stared down, still as a granite sculpture; the child fidgeted at his side like a mouse in a room full of sehlats.  The receptionist gave K'Tan's PADD a brief glance.  "I think the Doctor is available, commander.  Go on, I'll let her know you're on your way."

Doctor Drett grimaced reflexively as Lorena informed her that K'Tan was headed to her office. She sniffed at the woman on her view screen.  "Great, what does he want?"  Her words trailed off when she noticed the the gruff looking Operations Chief standing in her doorway with a small boy at his side.

The child's presence swiftly diminished Ryla's scowl. He was dirty and frail, and his brown eyes held a sadness that she rarely saw in children as young as he. By his grip on the commander she could see that he trusted the Terran, but was uncertain of her. Ignoring the human for the moment, she addressed the child attached to K'Tan's pant leg, "hello there." She waited, but when the boy made no reply she stood and looked up to meet his escort's dark gaze. Ryla Drett was slender but not at all tall, a fact that was punctuated by K'Tan's intimidating stature looming in her small office. After a second she managed a courteous though fleeting smile for him as well then stepped around the desk, allowing her eye to drift over the Terran as she did so.

"I see you've managed to make it back in one piece and then some," she said, nodding in the Romulan's direction.

She stepped closer and knelt before the child. The dimples that were missing from the smile she forced for K'Tan, emerged in her cheeks with the genuine smile she gave his ward.  "What's your name little one?" The Romulan stared back at her in wide-eyed silence.

Ryla craned her neck to look up at K'Tan once again.  "Thank you for...for doing whatever it was you did to enable the transporter locks. Your quick actions ensured our safe return. I thought I should acknowledge that."  She witnessed his barely masked shock and briskly added a modifier—she was diminutive, yes, but there was nothing of frailty in her— "Saying 'thank you', commander, shouldn't violate our unspoken pact of mutual disdain. Rest assured, we're still free to despise one another."  Somehow she managed to convey her cold remarks with a soft and charming warmth—if only for the child's benefit.

K'Tan frowned and arched an eyebrow. "Hmph.  I wouldn't have it any other way."

The physician slowly rose from her crouch and offered a hand to the boy who accepted it after the briefest hesitation. "Where are his parents?" asked the Trill as she led the child by the hand to the floor and helped him onto a biobed.

K'Tan shrugged.  "That's a good question.  I was hoping that one of our guests had asked about a missing child.  I gather that hasn't happened?"

Ryla smirked,  "If that were the case, I wouldn't be asking where his parents are, now would I?"

K'Tan felt his face start to heat up, and numerous biting remarks struggled to escape his mouth; he quickly clamped his lips shut.  Don't say anything, you'll only add fuel to the fire.  Breathe.  Count to 10.

"Ha.  More like ten thousand," he murmured under his breath.

"Ten thousand what?" Ryla asked, throwing K'Tan a confused glance. 

Before he could reply, she turned away with a short, dismissive shake of the head. She moved to a nearby station and collected a medical tricorder from its well-ordered surface. When the doctor returned, she demonstrated how the device operated by passing it over herself. Initially her little patient was startled by the bright lights and strange music emitted by the tricorder,  "it won't hurt you...see?" She deactivated it by folding the gadget in half. The child raised his up-swept brows in wonder as she opened it again, bringing the mysterious box to life once more.  She offered the boy the whirring instrument.   "You try," the doctor said with an encouraging smile. He glanced up at K'Tan for approval and accepted the tricorder when the commander nodded a brusque approval.

Ryla showed the boy how to scan himself and managed to read it's recordings as he did so. "Physically, he's fairly healthy... but mentally...." she sighed, "I can't scan for psychological trauma, but it's obvious to me that he's suffering from it. I think he should see Counselor Margon." When K'Tan failed to reply she turned her eyes toward him. He was watching the boy with more concern than she had ever seen displayed on his battle hardened face—he actually cared for child. Now it was her turn to be surprised.  "He needs a guardian," she said in a softer tone. "It's quite a responsibility, but I think you're more than capable. If you need any guidance or assistance, for the boy's sake, I would be happy to provide it. I have several centuries worth of experience...well...Drett does...but I could share the responsibility if the challenge is too much for you."

K'Tan startled both the doctor and the child by bursting into a loud bout of deep, booming laughter.  Eventually, he brought himself to gasping control.  "Too much of a challenge for me?"  K'Tan dabbed at a bit of humor-induced moisture at the corner of his eye as he tried to catch his breath.  "Ahhhhh," he said, still grinning.  " I haven't been so amused in quite a while."  He directed a sincere, albeit brief smile at Drett.  "Thank you doctor; I never expected you to have such a refined sense of humor." 

The Ops officer straightened his stance and gave an adjusting tug to the hem of his uniform tunic.  "I've never encountered a challenge I'm unwilling to face.  But I never thought of myself as the parenting type, either." 

He glanced at the doctor's small patient.  "However; the child should not be left unsupervised.  And I suppose it is the duty of all warriors to train the next generation.  He needs to be taught to take care of himself, and to make his mark in the universe."  K'Tan gave a sigh.  "For the time being, I will take on the challenge... at least until someone more suitable comes along."  He gave the doctor a measuring stare.  "And I accept your offer to share the responsibility."

K'Tan turned away, and directed a mumbled, barely audible statement to the doctor-

"Thank you."

[Rico]

Joint post by Jen & Rico

The Captain was leaving her meeting with the Romulan senators when her com badge chirped.

"Lieutenant Commander Zremm, to Captain Sevryll."

"This is Sevryll, go ahead Mr. Zremm."

"Captain, I have been reviewing the files retrieved from the Romulan transport and detected a pattern that was missed in our initial scan of the data."  Zremm said, sounding fatigued.

"Explain, Mr. Zremm,"  Sevryll replied, feeling a bit fatigued herself. The entire fleet had been pushing themselves these past few weeks and the Captain would not hesitate to do the same. This was one of the things that Zremm had always respected about the Vulcan. Over the many years he had known her, she had never asked her subordinates to perform a task that she herself was not fully prepared to do.  Ch'Fras had a great deal of respect for that type of officer - and for that type of person.

"I was running the Star Charts through the sub routines that I have developed, and the data markers did not match up.  It contained information that the program could not account for, which clearly indicated that these files were more than simple navigational records.  I am still working on them, but this data appears to be encrypted personal logs.  I am still sorting it out and running it through various translation filters.  I hesitate to say more over an open comm channel, ma'am."  He said, waiting for Sevryll to respond.


Why would this data be hidden where it could easily be discovered? Star Charts are not the best location for encrypted files...they are scanned too frequently. She thought to herself, as she had Aeric entered a tubolift.  "Please coordinate with Mr. D'Callan and keep me apprised of your findings."

"Understood, Captain.  I will continue to give it top priority and will contact Lieutenant Commander D'Callan immediately.  Zremm out."   Sevryll had the utmost confidence in Ch'Fras Zremm's skills and discretionary abilities. Aside from Aeric, she had known him longer than any other member of her crew. His friendship with her family had developed over many years of shared postings. He had been stationed aboard Starbase 375 with Aeric and Sevryll during the Dominion War and later aboard the USS Hercules. As the lift slowed and the doors parted, she recalled the traditional Andorian sha' freit pastry her daughter Aria had made for Zremm for his birthday, five years prior, aboard the Tiberius. Even though the desert had fallen well short of the desired consistency and flavor, Zremm ate three large pieces and seemed very touched by her gesture.

Sevryll tapped her combadge, "Captain Sevryll to Chef Doyan."

Aeric shook his head as a surprised voice answered her call, "Doyan here, ma'am." He rarely had the opportunity to cook for the Vulcan thanks to her husband who fancied himself 'a gourmet chef'...needless to say, Mr. Doyan was eager to actually put his talent to work.

"Are you familiar with the Andorian sha'freit pastry?" she inquired.

"Yes ma'am. Shall I prepare a meal to accompany the desert?" Aeric shook his head, indicating his plans to make their dinner.

"No, thank you Mr. Doyan. The pastry is for Mr. Zremm. Once it's ready, please deliver it to his office...he'll be working late this evening."

The voice that replied over the com sounded discouraged but willing serve, "Of course, Captain. Can I do anything else for you?"

"Yes...please top the pastry with 'rainbow sprinkles'. It's nontraditional, but he is quite fond of them.... Thank you Mr. Doyan."