Star Trek: Season 10

[Shelby D]

JP by JustX & Crystal

Oryn's question was anything but innocent, what Shelby needed to do was to counter and stick to the plan; although he was making it a challenge. "I would call this business..." Lowering the drink Shelby set it aside. "I appreciate directness Commander. In exchange I will reciprocate." She stood more confidently, "I would like to access your computer database."

The words came out easily now. "I am working on a 'personal' project, which needs a more delicate touch than I can get from the Federation side. I thought you might be willing to help me." She watched the romulan for a moment, then continued. "As far as pleasure is concerned, the evening is still young." Shelby lifted her brows in a suggestive manner.      

"Since we are being up front, why don't you tell me what you're looking for." Oryn said as he looked her over. "What sort of information are you trying to find? Better still, what kind of pleasure are you looking? Information might be difficult, but I'm quite skilled in other subjects."

A knowing smile was reflected in her expression, as she reached inside the edge of the dresses fabric along the left corner, near her neck. Removing a data crystal she set it firmly in his palm. Her eyes never leaving his. "Confirm what you can...see if there are any connections related to it..follow up reports...anomalies...anything...on particular name came up, Navash" Her eyes dropped to the crystal, then her gaze returned to his steely eyes.  "Please..."

His brow raised at her reply. This wasn't what he had expected. "I'll look into the information that you have provided me with, if it's not a threat, I'll give you what I find."

"Is there anything you would like in exchange for your assistance?"

"No, I typically don't like such strings attached or expect anything in return." He paused to take a drink before he continued. "It usually complicates things and I prefer fair and simple. Unless someone is trying to use me." He gave a slight smirk at this last remark. "If I'm going to be used, I'd prefer in to happen in ways that I enjoy."  

Shelby avoided reacting, yet at the same time the flirtations lured her. The skills which he plied were well suited for his charisma and good looks. After all, she wasn't a frail woman in regards to things of such 'design'. Hell she'd done it herself in the past. Searching his expression she found no indication that he was playing with her. "You are a bold man, I appreciate that." she said respectfully.  

Giving a nod he sipped his drink again. "The way I see it. I'm going to have my hands full with double dealings and back stabbing when I face the senate. I'd like to avoid that elsewhere."
 
Worry, echoed in her thoughts. Could he see her vulnerabilities? "I understand and I do appreciate that...and I hope that I have not left you with such an impression; that was it was not my intent." Shelby stated in response as she finished the vulcan brandy.

Oryn took the final sip of his drink and moved to the nearest console. After connecting the device to the ship, he initiated the query. "It's going to take a bit to finish, but I am sure I can locate some of the information you're looking for."

A silence fell between them, it was papatable and tense, unsure of the direction to take things a thought came to her as a lighthouse beam on a foggy night would find a lost ship. "Oh, my tour, you have yet to show me your ship. I hope it isn't too late I would like to stay, besides..you intrigue me...."  

"It is never too late and I'd never reject the company of a lovely woman who found me intriguing." He smiled and glanced back at the crystal then he turned and raked his eyes over her. "I think a tour is just what we need." a knowing smile eased onto his expression.  

Oryn moved towards the door, "Ensign Daelen, I think I have changed my mind about something." pausing to let the woman take the lead again, "I believe I will accept your offer of exchanging something...for my assistance..."

A deep pit opened in the center of her being at his words, turning slightly she inquired. "What would that be?"  

"I'd like you to tell me more about yourself." His deep baratone voice seemed more-so as he stated his request.

Stepping through the doorway, Shelby lowered her gaze, she wasn't one to particularly share things about herself but she knew the stakes. She pivoted and looked into the man's eyes. "What exactally would you like to know?"  She asked quietly.

"You can start with the usual and go from there." Oryn said as he studied her reaction; seeing her hesitation he tucked the information away. "Family linage, hobbies, habits, domestic status, quirks. You know the things that people might want to know about you when you're not in your uniform. Like right now."  

Shelby reminded herself, it was a pay off. "My mother was Romulan, S'Tel Lauji, she was a medic and my father was a human security officer; Brend Daelen. They served upon the same Federation ship, my mother's family fled Romulus when she was a child...." hesitating for a moment she found herself caught in Oryn's sights and feeling more unsure of herself.

Burying her innermost thoughts she carried on. "Over time they found an attraction and they married, then they left the service...to settle on a border colony, Baret 8..." over the next hour or so Shelby told the man a fair amount of information about herself. Nothing crucial mind you but it was enough.

As they finished walking his vessel, she departed with very little of D'Callan's list and feeling more vulnerable to the Romulan than she was comfy with.

It was much like being in a shuttle during a severe dive; Frightening yet compellingly intoxicating to watch.  

[Meds]

Joseph sat in his quarters, in his 'out of work clothes' which, when alone consisted of shorts and a loose fitted shirt, a homage to his surfer days back in Australia. He stretched out on his sofa and picked up the PADD. He'd been studying this for over two weeks after he had done the security crew evaluation. Leaving Shelby's too the last he took his time studying her records and what family life was known. One bit of important information was missing, that information he wanted to find out. He'd nearly cracked it but for one small dilemma. He needed help if he was to complete this file. Standing he walked to the main computer panel. "Computer open a secure channel to Karum D'Callan, D'Callan research unit"

He sat down in front of the screen and his father appeared. "G'dayDad," His Father smiled and turned round waving, Theran came up to the monitor and raised a beer in front of the screen.  " Dad, do you still have that friend at the academy, the one who was a tracker. i  need to find someone of importance of a friend" Karum sat back "Would this friend be a woman Joseph?"

Looking away slightly and then back Joseph simply nodded and his father continued "About time, you need a good lady son. Yes I'm still in contact with him, in fact he owes me a favor. Lost two of his fingers you know in a turbo lift accident, silly dingo"

Joseph laughed "If i send you the info via this channel can you get it me back pretty sharpish?" His father nodded and Joseph connected the PADD to his terminal and sent the details, Karum looked up and read the info. "Romulan, oh a half Romulan, and you want to find ah...... Struck a cord there has it Joe, we all miss her"

Joseph smiled " I know Dad"

Karum handed a small disc to Theran who disappeared "So hows Sevryll and Aeric, still playing mind tennis with each other are they? ha ha, send them my love will you, when they are not on duty" He winked at his son.

"Thanks Dad, be in touch soon, yes?"

Karum nodded and waved as the screen went dead. Joseph took a deep sigh and smiled at the file in front of him. If he could complete this file, and hand it to her, that may say more than words. Smiling to himself he sat back down on the couch and lifted the antique arm of the record player, the hiss came first then in the beautiful, soothing sounds of a saxophone.

[Feathers]

Tolok sat at the desk in his quarters and contemplated the partial model of the U.S.S. Prekofiev on the surface before him. It was a creation that he hadn't touched in years but had carefully stored while working through his studies.

On returning to the family home on New Vulcan following his attainment of Kohlinar, Tolok had considered resuming the build but the idea had not sat right with him and so he had let the project slide for another year. Now, back in space and back in the service of Starfleet he felt that the time had finally come to complete what he had started so long ago. He wasn't on the Prekofiev now and he already felt the Arabella stealing some of the...regard he felt for his previous ship; now was the last chance he would have to complete the detailed scale representation.

Model making was as close as the Chief Engineer would allow himself to get to working in his quarters. Many of the principles he applied to his models were well matched to his engineering skills. The selection of materials, the design of new parts and the construction of the whole all had direct analogues in his 'day job' as the humans would call it. The difference here was that the focus required of this task was purely internal, allowing him to centre himself in ways that working on the ship day-to-day would never allow. Indeed, so absobing did he find the practice that he had recently come to believe that concentration on his building projects would aid in maintaining the Kohlinar discipline. Now it was time for him to find out.

Tolok was troubled and this in istelf causd him more trouble. In meeting the old Romulan in engineering and escorting him to the Afterburner, the Vulcan had come face to face with many of his beliefs about his sister race. What he had found in what he saw was not what he had expected and in that difference lay the source of his disquiet.

In the Romulan's quiet and understated pride in his service to his empire, the Commander had found an almost Vulcan detachment and peace. None of the Romulan boastfullness or bravado had been present, simply an unshakable belief in what the man had done and the service he believed he had provided to his people. Tolok had liked him.

This presented a conundrum that challenged both the Vulcan's logic and his engineering abilities. The man simply did not comply with what Tolok had always understood the Romulan people to be and when something disproved a hypothesis like this then both logic and engineering discipline dictated that the hypothesis itself should be challenged...and so Tolok returned to his building, the better to settle his mind and allow him to digest the challenges that this day had presented him.

[X]

Joint post by Just X and KC

No sooner than Oryn had finished his lengthy communication, he returned to his bedroom to find the green hued Cyra now laying on the bed and reading from one of the many PADDs that surrounded her. She had arrived about an hour before Shelby's visit and had been there helping him come up with potential recruits for the station and to discuss the names of those few crew members that had offered to volunteer. For the sake of discretion, Cyra was only viewing the publicly available lists, but her position on the ship gave her insights to the minds of the crew that rivaled the counselor. 

"I'm really sorry about that." Oryn offered an apologetic smile and he watched her as she lay on he stomach reading. "I didn't think we'd have any interruptions other than my meeting later tonight. Did you see anyone interesting in the list or were you becoming bored? I know how dangerous that can be for you."

"Wow, you're funny," Cyra said in a sarcastic tone and her lips forming a playful smile. "Maybe you should consider a career in stand-up since it seems to be your calling."

Out of all the ships in all the galaxy, Oryn had never expected to see her on the Arabella. She was a surprise from his past and a very pleasant one. Seeing her in the bar had forced him to hide their connection, but when the opportunity to speak with her alone presented itself, he pounced on it. Their few run-in's in the past had been to brief for them to catch up. Now it seemed chance had brought her into his orbit for the next few years. It was one of the few times that he would be happy not to argue with fate. Good friends were more precious than latinium in their chaotic universe.

Oryn smirked and took a seat on the corner of the bed, "I was thinking of bar tending if this doesn't work for me. How is that working for you? I think you'd thrive in another setting."

Cyra shot him a questioning look. There were plenty of details from her past that she wished to forget, but it always seemed to be the good things that slipped away from her memory. Oryn's friendly smile and her ability to read his underlying messages were two examples of those many, many things. "I don't quite follow."

"I have an entire station full of various species that are going to need a place to be entertained.  I think that it's fitting that you're here now. I'd love for your help there." he said and caught her eyes with his. "If you want your own bar, it's yours. If you only want to help set things up, I can use that too. So much has happened to me that it would be great to have a friendly face around."

Cyra could not mask her surprise at the offer. There was a mix of pleasant and unsure feelings stirring inside of her. She took a moment to process her thoughts, but clarity did not come immediately like she wished it would. "I'm not sure if I could leave the Arabella," she said. "But it's a good opportunity. I don't know, Oryn. I just... I feel like I may need to think about it. It's tempting though. Really tempting."

"Tempting is better than no," he smiled. "What if you could have the best of both world. Run the bar, set it up, but still work here?"

"You seem intent on getting me to help you open up this new bar," she said, smiling back at him. "There are other people who could probably do this better you know. Maybe not a lot, but a few I'm sure. I'm just wondering why..."

This was a game that she had not played in years. Flirtation and teasing used to come so easily to her back in her days as a wild teenager, but she had changed so much. Five years ago, she would have made a dance of situations like this, and she never even thought about the consequences that would follow what could become a dangerous game. Five years? Had it been that long? she thought to herself. For some reason she felt like a little girl wearing her mother's clothes, awkwardly shuffling about in shoes that did not fit and wearing a dress that made her trip. And just like that little girl, Cyra pretended that she was cool and collected and graceful.

"I thought it was obvious." he answered. "I know you. I trust you. There are too many people that I don't know enough to trust. Why not find a way to involve the person that I do?"

"I've grown up a little since Earth. I've even learned a bit more about myself, but not so much that I'm going to forget who my friends are." Oryn looked at the woman before him and could not help but to admire her. "I still enjoy your company. If you don't want to do the bar thing, I'd settle for an extended visit. I'd like to better know the new you and unlike past adventures, there shouldn't be anything to hold us back. Would it be odd to hear that I've missed your presence and still thought about you?"

Cyra lifted an eyebrow. "It does sound a bit odd... if by 'odd' you mean 'downright bizarre.'" She had meant for that to be a jest, but the sound that she gave it seemed insulting. Despite sense and logic demanding her not to, she decided to back track. "I mean... that was meant to be a joke. I will think about your offer... about the bar, that is. And the whole visit thing, and the extending of it, that doesn't sound too bad either. Not that I think it's just okay, it's great. Not that I'm--"

Her faux cool and collected composure was beginning to unravel and slowly reveal the figurative nakedness of her discomfort. She struggled to find the right words, but none of them would travel to her lips and tongue. Why did I not stop while I was ahead? she chastised herself. Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid... She paused for a second, and evaded Oryn's stare by looking down at her feet. Cyra could feel her cheeks burning and there was no doubt in her mind that her face was the deepest shade of green imaginable. Of all the times for her confidence to abandon her, it had to be in this moment, in this place, and in front of this man. She took a deep breath in, and as soon as the numbing feeling of embarrassment subsided just slightly, she felt safe to open her mouth again. "So you missed me, huh?"

The slight hue of green flushed his cheeks as Oryn laughed. "Yeah, I did."

Without another word, he moved closer to her and glanced at the feet that had kept her attention. "What are we looking at?"

"Nothing. Nothing..." Her eyes remained on her feet, hoping that if she studied the contour of their shape long enough that she would avoid Oryn's attention.

Oryn's smile increased as he turned more to her and allowed his hand to reach out to her. Fingertips lightly touched her face and gently guided her gaze to him. Words left his mouth in a soft whisper, "I don't want you uncomfortable, do we need to change the subject?"

Cyra's eyes were open wide and her heart was pounding. She felt as if she were being hypnotized, or under some spell that only existed in make believe games that she loved to play as a child. There was something about his eyes that stirred so many feelings inside her. "Yes, please," she managed to squeak.

Oryn nodded softly as he leaned in and began to whisper into her ear, allowing the heat of his breath to caress her smooth skin even as his fingers remained touching her face, "Are there any officers that you trust more than the others here?"

"Do you really believe I can think coherently when you're this close to me?" The words were out of her mouth before she even realized that she had even had this thought. She froze. Her eyes managed to get wider and her cheeks were burning hotter than ever. This was not her. For the last five years, she had learned to control of her words and actions and feelings. A voice in the back of her head was cursing Oryn with the most foul words known to any language. The rest of her conscious was telling that little voice to shut up.

"Keep saying things like that and I won't be able to pull away," he offered as his own mind raced with thoughts that he had not considered in so long. He reluctantly removed his hand from her face, but not before grazing her other cheek with his. With a soft press of his lips, he lightly kissed her ear before fully pulling away. His breath was deeper with the effort that it took to increase the distance between them. What am I doing?

"I think I asked something about ... something that isn't that important right now."

"Um... right..." she said. She pressed her hands to her cheeks, and moved one hand down to the point where she could still feel his kiss on her skin. "We could... um... we could probably talk about it later. Like tomorrow or something."

"I'd really like that." he said. "I have the notes in the PADDs for now. What are you doing later?"

"I'm not sure... erm... do you have a certain time in mind?"

"I have to meet with doctor Drett in a bit, but after that, I'm free for the evening ... unless some crisis pops up." he replied. "I need some help putting together medical things for the station. Can I trust her?"

Cyra smiled. "I think you can manage to trust her a bit," she said. The colorful tone she used often for her jests had returned, little too late. But it was a welcome return, nonetheless.

"Good," he returned her smile then lowered his voice as he drew closer again. "I have an important favor to ask you. Don't leave when I do, stay and take a nap."

"I have a feeling that if I ask why, you'll simply say 'please' or 'trust me.'"

"Your scent is starting to fade from my pillow." he shrugged as he felt no need to hide the fact. "I'm starting to miss it because it makes this place feel comfortable. Is that reason enough to stay?"

"Uh-huh," Cyra said. She felt flattered, but now that she had regained her sense of cool, she was not about to show it. Again. She smirked at him. "You keep asking me if I trust anyone on this ship more than the others, but you should feel lucky to know that I can trust you."

"I do," he smirked. "More than lucky ... is blessed a strong enough word?"

He paused and nodded. "Truly and utterly blessed by you and your trust. So princess, are you going to stay?"

Cyra exaggerated the act of rolling her eyes and smiled. "I guess, since you asked so nicely. But next time, I prefer 'your majesty' or 'your grace.' 'Oh divine goddess' also works."

This time Oryn rolled his eyes, "If you really want a title, I'm sure I can arrange something in the future. However, divine goddess, as humbled as I am to be in your presence, I should go meet with the doctor. When I get back, you'll have my undivided attention."

"That would be nice."

[Jen]

Because it was in full view of anyone entering Sickbay, Ryla tried to keep her office... cleanish. Ordinarily, she was anything but neat. The Trill was somewhat of a messy individual, but she attempted to keep her chaos organized. She removed her lab coat and draped it over the back of her chair as she started to leave, but returned to push it under her desk and straightened a stack of PADDs on its surface. She was now off duty, but there were a few things she had to do before she could return to her quarters. The first on her list was an informal meeting over dinner with Commander Oryn.

The sprightly woman marched out the door of her office and onto the floor, "I'll see you tomorrow ladies," she said to Myella and Susan—they too were preparing to call it a day.

"Where are you going in such a hurry?" Nurse Cane inquired as she arranged the implements at her station. "Do you have another date? Why don't you send your rejects to me?  I'm not as persnickety as you are," she laughed.

"I can arrange that. You would be doing me a favor if you lured Jared Olson away. Would you like me to introduce you to him?"

"SURE," replied Susan.

Ryla's lips stretched into a Cheshire Smile, "done." Jared was a good-looking specimen, but their date the night before had educated the Trill on the hazards associated with 'judging a book by its so-called cover'. Though very kind, he was remarkably awkward and after his first outburst of laughter he had reminded her of someone from Drett's past. That night a dream ultimately drew forth the memory—in it, she was Drett's second host, Felahras. The woman had seven brothers in all, but Lon was the youngest and she often tickled him as a child to kindle an explosive 'snortle ' as she called it. Jared Olson's rather...unique...laughter, was too close to Lon's, and kissing him would no doubt be like kissing her brother.

"So, who are you meeting tonight?" asked Myella.

"Commander Oryn," she replied.

"Ah...the Romulan I was supposed to see for a physical this morning. Susan said he was rather fetching," added Myella Peterson in a clipped Irish accent.

"He is, but he knows it," said Ryla. "There's nothing worse than an attractive man who fancies himself a ladykiller. I'll admit I think he's attractive, but he's a silver tongued devil. Jaunairim Drett was married to five of those, not at once mind you, but over he course of her lifetime. I don't share her taste in men—I'm just meeting him out of diplomatic obligation..."

"Of course," said Nurse Caine mischievously. "Then why don't you set me up with him too?"

"I'm sure he'll get around to doing that himself," said Ryla with a smirk. "Goodnight ladies."

[Jen]

Joint post by Jen and Just X

The cacophony of sounds created by the attendees bounced off of the smooth stone surfaces of the central dining area, creating a murmuring echo. Oryn, dressed in the finest noble garments of the era, waited in the place of honor for his guest to arrive. He greeted those that brought their gaze to his, with friendly and warm smiles. It wasn't everyday that the people were allowed to attend a feast with the Emperor and it wasn't every day that Oyrn allowed himself to play the central figure in any setting...much less a holographic one. Recent conversations had him wanting to explore titles, and the holodeck was the safest place to do so.

The Emperor rose as the arch appeared unnoticed by the people surrounding him. From his vantage point, he could see Ryla Drett twist her flaxen hair into a neat pile before taking a careful step into the simulation. The doctor was still clad in her duty uniform—its high collar hiding the intricate pattern of spots that trailed down her neck. The contrasting division color also accented the cuffs on the jacket's black sleeves, which she absently straightened as she took in the atmosphere.

Despite her obvious presence within the room, her mind was elsewhere. Ryla Drett was an even-keeled woman who was rarely flustered by anyone or anything. Only one person truly burned her spots and that was Commander K'Tan. She considered him a high and mighty, targheaded (albeit handsome), halfwit who went out of his way to vex her. And lately, to her great distress, he had begun slipping into her thoughts at the most inopportune times. In fact, at that very moment, she was wondering how the boy he rescued was fairing, and worrying that K'Tan was in the process of teaching him to juggle sharp objects. I bet he has already given the child a 'pointy metal stabbing device' all his own. What are those Klingon swords called? Bat...bat something or other. The kid will poke his eye out and I won't know that the lumbering oaf gave him a 'bat thing' until they saunter into Sickbay, wanting me replace the missing eye. Hmph...that's the point at which he'll actually ask for my help... I should check on them before the kid maims himself under K'Tan's watch.

With a signature whine the door closed behind her, effectively banishing K'Tan, the boy and his 'bat-thing' from her thoughts. Suddenly more aware of her surroundings, the Trill felt acutely out of place. She stopped a stride from the Holodeck door, unsure of whether she should retreat into the ship's corridor or carry on appareled as she was.  

Oblivious to the strange woman's understated attire, the court bowed their heads to the doctor as if she were an adored ruler. Ryla hesitated a moment trying to think of a proper response, yet none came. Instead, the Trill winged it and cast an embarrassed smile on the gathered and waded into the room,  "hi... hello... how do you do?" She said to the myriad of individuals who welcomed her. "Hi there... nice to see you... hey, how's it going?"

Oryn descended the dais with a grin, "you have a talent for standing out in a crowded room. I admire that."

His fine regalia was suited for an individual of great importance and Ryla had to admit, he wore it well.

"You didn't tell me this was going to be a formal dinner..." When the doctor had agreed to meet Oryn, she thought it would be in the Afterburner. But toward the end of the day he had changed his plans, requesting that she meet him in the holodeck.

The urbane Romulan offered his hand to the diminutive woman, with a broadening smile, "I've taken the liberty of putting together a feast of various Romulan flavors. Hopefully, you will enjoy some of what you sample."

She reluctantly accepted his hand and allowed him to escort her to a chair, "where are we exactly? "

"A recreation of the Imperial Palace a few centuries after the Exodus," he replied. "While not fully accurate, it is a beautiful location nonetheless."

"It's very beautiful....and... festive. What's the occasion? Is it your birthday?" She asked sarcastically.

Oyrn pushed the elaborately adorned chair in for her as she sat, "I have a huge task ahead of me and I would like to enjoy the finer things before I subject myself to the tortures of command. I still need to review crew files and I'm going to require the assistance of a qualified physician to aid me in getting our medical facilities off the ground."

The commander took the seat across from her and nodded for the first course to be served.

"I want you, Ryla..." He paused suggestively, "I believe our station would benefit from a medical hologram. How would you feel about being 'the face' of the construct?"

"No... I hate those things," she said as she brushed a non-existent bit of lint from her sleeve.

He chuckled softly as gilded plates filled with leafy greens were quietly placed before them. "How would you suggest that we handle the lack of trained personnel available to deal with all of the species living on the station?"

Ryla offered a smile to the servant and thanked him. The man seemed surprised by her acknowledgment and bowed again before quickly leaving the table. She watched him go with interest before turning back to the Commander, "Personally, I find Emergency Medical Holograms to be haughty and rude. The last thing I want one is for one of those arrogant bundles of algorithms to look like me...not only that, but it's weird. They are a wealth of knowledge and if you require a multi-purposed physician working around the clock, they're the perfect solution...I just don't want it to wear my face."

Oryn poured them each a glass of wine, "Our Holograms are very bland, but you have a fantastic manner and a very pleasing appearance. I require a hologram that the station's inhabitants will accept. Something not too human for the Romulans and not too Romulan for Starfleet. To be frank, your species hasn't been much of a threat to my own and your bedside manner could work well for the program."

He wouldn't believe that if he knew how I treated K'Tan two days ago, she wryly mused before inwardly grimacing that the Chief Of Ops had once again intruded on her thoughts.

"I'm sure that we could come up with some sort of composite physician of unassuming looks," he continued, "...if you will not lend your features, perhaps you would help construct its personality. I'm sure that your psychological profile would translate well as the core persona of the program we employ."

She stared at him, her glass of wine held frozen at her lips, "What? No... you can't use my profile for your EMH." She set the glass down with a little too much force, sloshing a small amount of the amber liquid onto the table, "Get your own personalities. These are mine..."

He could not stop the belly laugh from escaping, "Now that was completely unexpected! Most people jump at the chance for immortality. Well, if you won't be the core, how about helping teach it manners?"

She made an effort to dab the wine from the table with her napkin, "I already have some semblance of eternal life," she muttered "...I'll consider teaching the EMH 'etiquette', though I can't say I'm looking forward to dealing with one of those things on a day to day basis."

"Well, this hologram will have Romulan sensibilities," he replied, still chuckling. "You may find that you like it more than the standard models."

She smirked in disbelief as she took a sip of what remained in her glass. I knew I should have declined his offer for dinner...

[X]

Joint post by Jen and Just X

From the head of a grand table within a holdeck recreation of an ancient Romulan palace, Oryn sipped his own wine and considered the Trill sitting across from him. "Are you happy with your posting here?"

She nodded as she set her glass down, "I'm doing what I love aboard a vessel crewed by my extended family. I'd say I'm fairly content."

"That's ... unfortunate...but understandable. It's a fine ship. Lot's of interesting people." Oryn added and took a bite of his first course.

A small crease formed on Ryla's forehead, "Unfortunate?"

"Yes. You don't wish to be a hologram and there is little chance I will persuade you to accept a position as the CMO aboard my station," he said. "It's very unfortunate for all those people in need. I hope that they can make due with second or even third best."

"I'm sure you will find someone to fit the bill," she replied, trying to communicate her disinterest in her timbre and expression.

"Are there other physicians within the fleet with youthful vigor and hands-on experience that could apply centuries of knowledge and expertise to their post?"

Ryla shook her head slowly in mild amusement, "You are tenacious...have these tactics worked for you before?  Let's see, you've tried guilt trips and now flattery. Hologram or no, I'm simply not vain enough to believe that I am the woman for the job.... If you would like, I'll suggest a few who are just as qualified, if not more."

"I would appreciate your recommendation," Oryn started. "To be honest," he continued, "I'm trying to woo you into helping with my transition team. I'm still considering applicants, and of those individuals, there are a number in the fleet that have offered their services. I could use another person to help me go over their files. I can count the people that I completely trust on one hand and I think that you're quickly on the way to making that list."

Ryla nibbled on another bit of salad before replying. "I will do what I can to help you."

He smiled at her words. "I have little raptors about and they've informed me that you are as trustworthy as you seem. I'm glad for your help."

"Ah so you have spies," she teased. "Well don't believe everything you hear... Do you have the list of candidates? I'll go over it with you if you now."

"I do have a list, but I didn't bring my PADD," he replied apologetically. "I thought we could spend this time developing confidence in one another. I know how difficult it is for some to trust my species."

"We're not going to do one of those silly exercises where I have to fall backwards and hope that you'll catch me, are we?" Ryla asked in jest.

He chuckled, "We've already completed a trust exercise. You gave me a physical this morning...there are a lot of secrets in my blood.

"Yes... I did a little research on my findings and, though we don't have a lot of data on the subject, I was able to confirm my diagnosis. It seems you have a case of the 'nobilities'...don't worry, I think we caught it in time."

"From what I hear, it can be fatal in the wrong environment," he said with a slight smile.

Ryla's serious expression became genuine, "You share the same blood as the Imperial line." She gestured about her, "Is that what this is all about?"

He ignored her question, "My trust seems to have been well placed...Now, what will it take for you to trust me?"

"For starters? You use a lot of innuendos...you could stop using them with me. Half the time I'm not sure whether I should slap you or laugh.  I think that's probably your intent—you're testing the waters. I believe you're trying to throw me off balance and I'm not exactly sure why. That doesn't foster trust."

He smiled, "You're quite perceptive... A person's reaction tells me a lot about them. Many non-Romulans don't expect my casual bearing. Hell, if I'm honest, a lot of Romulans don't either."

She leaned back in her chair, "I thought so. Well...what did your little 'test' tell you about me? That I'm an 'uptight, goody two-shoes'?"

"Is that what you hoped to project? It's not at all what I picked up from you... I think I'll keep it to myself though," he said with a wry smile.

Ryla narrowed her eyes slightly, "Another test." Her eyes reflected the now flippant smile he could not see behind the glass she lifted.

"Everything we do tests us in some way, but some things aren't intentional," he replied. "Still, you don't toss out valid observations because of the way they were generated."

"What is your assessment of my friend... Cyra?"

"She seems very capable at her job and far more. She's someone that I'd enjoy inappropriate amounts of time with." Oryn's smile brightened, "Gorgeous and dangerous are just added perks."

Ryla gave him an appraising look as another servant came to refill her glass of wine, "She's a good girl, Oryn...I don't want her getting hurt. You better treat her right."

"Treat her right?" his brow rose questioningly. "What makes you think that she's going to let me treat her any way at all?"

"I have three hundred and thirty years worth of experiences as both males and females. I know," she nodded assuredly.

"It's complicated." Oryn said. "Very complicated."

"It always is," she added with a knowing smile. It was then Ryla observed a sudden transition in his demeanor. He was being honest and there was a bit more emotion behind his atypically simple answer. She had seen that look before, but not from someone as glib as Oryn pretended to be. "How long have you known Cyra? And don't tell me you just met her. I heard something in your tone that suggests you know her better than you're letting on."

"I just arrived a few days ago," he started with a smile. "I'm sure there are a lot of men that would like to know her better than they are letting on. Maybe it's just wishful thinking on my part or maybe there's something more. For all anyone knows, we could have known each other for years."

"If you want to spend more time with Cyra, why in the stars are you wasting time trifling with me?" She grinned. Ryla was certain his roving eye fell on every female he came across, which was one reason she would never take Oryn seriously.

"I'm wasting my time?" He asked in an almost pouting tone before turning a little more serious. "Flirting is just flirting. Think of it as my way of helping to reinforce your self-esteem by reminding you how beautiful you are."

"I don't need any help with my self-esteem, thanks...I'm managing just fine." She chuckled.

The Romulan laughed with her, "As for our resident Orion, I think you might be assuming a little too much."

"I've been around the galaxy a time or two. I know what I'm talking about.  I can keep a secret. I'm not sure why this one is worth keeping, but I'm not a gossip. I won't bring it up again."

"For the record, I'm exactly where I want to be. I think that you're a good person to know and that introduction has to start somewhere."

"A good person to know—you sound like Galdar again. For future reference, you don't have to wine and dine me to ask for my help. I'm not that sort of gal. Not that I'm not enjoying myself mind you...but really, it's not necessary."

"Perhaps I'm bored from doing a six month tour alone in a small ship? Maybe I just want to enjoy your company while I'm working on the business that needs to be done." He smiled. "I asked you here because I wanted to get to know you outside of work."

Her lopsided smile gained symmetry, "well...that's the best way to make a new friend.  I propose we start over then," she said as she extended her hand, "How do you do? I'm Ryla Drett. Welcome aboard the Arabella....Mr?"  

He took her hand, "Oryn of Romulas...of a house not worth mentioning. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"The honor is all mine, sir," she laughed and gave his hand a energetic shake.

[Shelby D]

Heading back to her quarters, to change, was a long and troubling road for Shelby. Everything that had happened; Her Mother missing, Nalah, and Oryn, not to mention all the Romulan's and the difficulties they had already been encountering had really given the woman reason to review her life and how things had been going on the ship. The only other thing which had been perplexing her was D'Callan. Never had it been her intention to find herself drawn to the man, in fact at first, she disliked him and his smugness. Despite the initial dissatisfaction with things the woman was discovering that there was more to the man than just his brash exterior.  

Opening the door Shelby nearly got an eyeful of her room mate, Tina Dacon, upon entering the room she had to turn her eyes downward. "Do you two mind." she said tensely, while she made her way past the pair. She tactfully placed a hand along the side of her cheek to avert her eyes from the side of the room in which the pair had decided to practically strip down and start making out in. Additionally, it took a long time for Daelen to hear a greeting as she walked over to her side of the room.

"Hi Sssshelby." Came her roommates call to her.

As she made it past the pair she heard Henry's voice. "That is quite an outfit Daelen..." He said while Shelby rolled her eyes.

"Come on, get a room of your own..." she admonished. "I'd like to just get in and out of here." The ensign felt an oddly placed stab of jealously; why was it so easy for Tina. Not that 'she' wanted things like that; she didn't Still as Shelby turned away, a crease formed between her dark brows. Shaking her head she redoubled her efforts to gather some regular clothes, then she moved into the side room to change.

"You know it's funny...Henry." Came Tina's voice, between the sounds of kissing and light giggling from the other room. "The whole time Shelby's been here she hasn't done anything. She's always being the stiff. I don't get it."

"Maybe she needs to lighten up. I can fix her up"

"No!" Shelby said firmly through the partition.  Sighing heavily, the half romulan pulled on her shoes, then she finished buttoning her shirt. As she lifted the memory of Joe and her in the holosuite flooded her thoughts. They had been so close; the rushing emotions which had possessed her that day returned to her like a looming specter and she stopped in her tracks.

Shoving those aside, Oryn's words echoed in her head and she found her mind racing even faster. There was so much conflict. She wasn't a human, she wasn't a Romulan...she found D'Callan interesting, yet he was her Chief and everything was crumbling at her feet.

"The Romulan's show up and suddenly she is everywhere." A soft giggle followed. "I think she likes them."

"Maybe she just needs to find the right man. Like you did."

Changing quickly Daelen balled up the dress, now regretting not taking clothes with her to change in, Shelby walked out into the main room. Giving a even heavier sigh she looked at the pair who had resumed their 'private party' in on the other ensigns bed.

Walking past the two as she placed the dress in her locker, Shelby said easily. "Oh, Gabrey from engineering was down here yesterday he wanted to know if you were on for Wed." a smirk slipped onto her lips and she headed for the door.

Opening the door she heard Henry's voice. "Gabrey?! You're seeing Gabrey??"  

Feeling somewhat victorious, Daelen walked into the hallway, pleased that she had struck a blow for the 'no roommate's' for ensigns policy. Still, her thoughts stirred emotions which she wasn't comfortable with. There had to be some place she could sort this out.  

[Shelby D]

POSTED ON BEHALF OF MEDS


Joseph walked into his room tapping up his report on his PADD on the Romulan situation over the last twenty-four hours. He didn't bother mentioning the incident with the barber, Rayon, in the lift; as he didn't see the purpose. Also he made mention that he was going to intergrate using Oryn as a consultant when dealing with the refugee's as much as possible. This at least would please Captain Sevryll and maybe help make life a bit easy for the task ahead. Sitting down he tossed the device to one side.

Despite his focus, Rayon's words regarding Joseph being turned down by that 'sweet little Romulan ensign' gnawed at him. Although the truth of the matter was, no, the sweet little Romulan hadn't turned him down; She didn't even know how he felt! And that was because Joe kept delaying saying anything to her and that ate at him even more.

Scowling he turned slightly and looked at the computer screen. He noticed a red clip flashing above his monitor. He jumped up in excitement and pressed play. His father appeared on screen. "G'day Joseph." The man had features which were reflected in his son, "I cashed in my favours...I have some preliminary stuff but the rest of the information should be to you by morning. So I hope she's worth it. You realize the hassle get this, right? I'll tell you, it was not easy but it's positive. Enter your mothers nickname for you to obtain the file. Take care son, we look forward to seeing her" he winked and then the screen went blank.

Joseph sat back in his chair and he tapped the password into the screen, he scrolled through the sudden pages of information band which were coded for him. He smiled as he read the information. "Computer print and produce a file" lifting a craft pen he began to write.

[Meds]

JOINT POST BY JEN AND MEDS



"Enter," came a muffled, but cheery voice. Smiling, Joseph stepped forward and the door emitted him. The woman who welcomed the chief tossed her arms around him enthusiastically and squeezed.  "Little Joe!" She rolled her chin upward over his broad chest in order to settle her blue eyes on his. "what a pleasant surprise," she said through a grin. Her chin on his chest restricted annunciation, and her words came out in a mumble.


Joseph smiled,  "are you busy? It's been an age since we last chatted, Susie." With a bounce in her step, the younger woman drew her game to the sofa, "I'm always free for you."


Sitting down, Joseph glanced about her tidy quarters and smiled at the holophotos she kept throughout. There were images of himself as a youth making, 'bunny ears' behind her head and a honeymoon photo of his father and mother embracing on a sunset beach. His smile recoiled slightly when his eyes stopped on Susan and Ben's wedding photo. Susan was wearing her mother's gown and a blissful smile as she danced with her academy sweetheart. It had been roughly four years since Ben Caine died and she had come so far since that day. Despite the sadness her husband's loss brought, Joseph was proud of the inner strength that Susan discovered and the newly regained optimism that took her all of four years to recoup.


"I spoke to dad the other day. He sends his love," he said when he realized she was watching him study her wedding photos.


"How is he doing?" Inquired his little sister in a softer tone that somehow retained its radiance.


Joseph nodded, "He looked well, but you know him..."


Susan stood and walk to the replicator to order a Mulled Cider for herself and a long beer for Joseph. As she turned back to her brother, she noticed his ordinarily confident air, transition to something less certain. "What's the matter Joe?"


The dark-haired man glanced at the PADD in his hands and then back at the small-framed blond staring keenly at him. He accepted the drink she offered and lifted it slowly to his lips, "Got a bit of a dilemma."


Susan sat beside him again as concern washed over her face, "is it work?"


He smiled at her "Oh if only Susie... Work has been a bit trying, what with the Romulans arriving. Heaven knows how many more incidents I will have to deal with. No, it's something more... well... you know..."


"No." Susan's smile reappeared as she put an arm around him, "but I can make an approximation. You've either lost that cricket bat or your heart..."


He looked up, laughing and hugged her back. "You know me so well."


"Of course I do," She punched his thigh lightly with her free hand and glanced at the PADD in his hands. "Does that file have anything to do with the woman in question?"


He handed it to her, "I've discovered some information that I kind of thought would make a good present... You know I'm rubbish at words."


"Yes you are. I remember you singing happy birthday to me when I was ten years-old, in front of all my friends, making silly lyrics instead of the proper ones. And to make matters worse you're tone deaf."


Laughing again, he lifted his eyes from the PADD to look at her, "hey, you're supposed to be helping me here!"


Susan took the tablet from his hands and studied it, "You've been trying calligraphy again—she must be important to you" The short haired blond woman scanned the file a moment before speaking again. "Shelby Daelen..." She said before reading more of the file. "She's the half Romulan officer, right?" Susan lowered the PADD and regarded the man sitting next to her. "I don't know her, but I've seen her around... in fact I saw you two together the day I was called to the brig to patch up the Romulan woman Daelen brought back. Why didn't you introduce me to her? You were very dismissive of me now that I think of it." She frowned in mock annoyance."Afraid I'll embarrass you!?"


With a small grin, Joseph nodded in affirmation—earning himself another punch in the thigh. This time the blow from her small fist had more force behind it. She glared at him now, but she very quickly lost the ability to retain the scowl on her face. As soon as it dissolved they laughed until tears came. When Susan was finally able to speak without sparking a new round of laughter, she lifted the PADD to eye level in order to give it further appraisal. "I think this is a fantastic gift Joe...why are you fretting over it?"


Sitting back and taking a sip of his drink, he looked again at the photo of Susan and Ben. "This job I do is dangerous—the job we do, I mean. Susie, I hate to bring this up..."

"You're going to ask me about Ben aren't you?"


Joseph kissed her forehead, "Sorry sis."


The smile she managed for him came slower than the others, "You're worried about losing her before she's even yours. " She turned her gaze to the photo that Joseph was looking at again—Ben's perpetual smile was beaming at them from across the room. "Have you ever heard of Alfred Lord Tennyson? My favorite poem that he wrote speaks of love lost and I happen to agree with the sentiment." It seemed as though she was speaking to her husband as she muttered the words with a heartbreaking sweetness. "I hold it true, whate'er befall; I feel it, when I sorrow most; 'Tis better to have loved and lost...than never to have loved at all."


Joe sighed deeply and smiled again at his sister's strength and wisdom. "You're right, of course. I just don't want to make a fool of myself...I've done that before."


"Yes, the heart is a tricky thing isn't it? It has reasons that reason does not understand, but I don't believe it makes us fools.... It makes us human.  I was the happiest when I was with Ben." Her lips curled into a small smile as she turned to face him once again. "The memory of those times are worth the ache I feel now..."


He turned to her, "I'm so proud of you." Giving her a big hug he pulled away and smiled,  "So do I get the seal of appoval from you?"


"Why do you need my approval?" She said, resisting the urge to tell him otherwise. Sisters tended to be hypercritical when it came to their siblings choice in mates and, though she was an adopted sister, Susan was no different. Joseph was older, bigger and the Chief Of Security on the flag ship of the Seventh Fleet, but she felt protective of him nonetheless. Susan wasn't sure she would like this woman that he was so taken with, but—unless a future scenario called for her intervention—she would try to keep her opinions to herself.  "Do what you feel in your heart, don't worry about what I think."


Standing Joseph took the PADD from Susan. "I'll put this back in my room until the time is right, and i think that will be very soon. Thanks" He waved it at her. "Can we meet up for dinner soon, I want to know what my baby sister has been up to."


"Going so soon?" She asked, as she walked him to the door. "Don't give your 'baby sister' the brush off next time we run into each other while on duty...I promise I won't embarrass you," She winked.  "And yes, of course we can meet for dinner."

[Meds]

JOINT POST BY CRYSTAL AND MEDS


Finding a place to just be quiet and alone, with all the Romulan's on-board felt nearly impossible to Shelby. Still, she eventually found a nice quiet Jefferies tube which was unoccupied near the engines. She needed this time, her thoughts were going all over the place.

In the end she found herself thinking about Oryn and some of his statements to her. Why did he want to know about her, how would it benefit him? Also his presence disturbed her on more than a few different levels. She had been weeding through what was eating at her but nothing openly stood out; other than the man was a flirt. That was no crime though.
Upon leaving those thoughts, she found herself mulling over Joseph D'Callan. The feelings she had for him had surprised her, having not considered him as anything before, other than her boss. It seemed odd and out of place, yet a part of her seemed interested in the possibility. There were many hurdles though; the biggest was that he was her Chief. Letting her head drop a little she let all the confusion wash from her slowly.

Despite this her mind reeled with self doubt. All of these Romulans, Oryn's words and one particular human.

A noise from below startled her from her thoughts and Shelby saw Joseph D'Callan rising up the rungs in order to make his way to her location. Wishing for a moment for escape, she found none.

"Ensign"

Shelby felt the urge to suddenly stand up and she almost did but a wave of his hand dismissed the idea "Sir, I was"

Joseph kept his concentration on what he was here to talk to her about: the incident in the medical bay with Nalah. Something inside him though kept pushing. He moved up beside her, made sure they were alone then he sat down next to her. He put his PADD upside down on his lap. "Sick bay. What happened?"

"My report - " she began.

Putting his hand up she stopped, then he stressed the request a hair more. "'What' happened?"

Seeing that he had already read the report and now he wanted her straight take on it she began. "Nalah was fine, we went for the physical, everything was going well and then the next thing I know they are going at it like a couple of wild tar'aks."

"Captain says she is to watched constantly and her roaming about the ship is to be restricted."

Shelby nodded having excpected this. "Yes Sir."

Joseph knew he should leave but there was an air about the woman. "I had to ask the computer to find your location. You seem distracted,?"

Shelby quickly looked at him and then down to the floor, his leg was close to her own and emotion began to flood into an already confused mind. "It's nothing..."

"Ok, I am not your Chief...what is eating at you, aye?" He inwardly knew this was wrong but he couldn't stop now.

"I'm not sure who I am anymore....I know that sounds dumb but with all the Romulan's here and Nalah; all of it is very overwhelming. I haven't been around my people in a long time. I feel like I don't belong anywhere."

Joseph looked down and into the jefferies tube and then back at Shelby, "It must be difficult, I can't pretend to know what you are going through. " he paused for a moment, deep inside, away from the world of protocol he wanted to put his arm around her, but he couldn't.

Instead, Joseph looked deeply into her eyes, his hope was to avert the feelings that were chipping away inside him but it seemed the more he tried to hold back the emotions they pushed back. "En - Shelby....you are, well, you're an incredible officer. "

Turning storm gray eyes upon D'Callan, Shelby responded to him, "I know...you tell me that often..." she said humbly.

Being this close to her was such a temptation. Joseph breathed in and regrouped his efforts and remembered what his sister had said earlier "Of course, well look. This is from me, not the pips. You're important to...Well you're ummm. I think - you're an increadable woman..." He shifted his eyes away and looked at the bulkhead across from them. "What I mean is. ." he turned and faced her, his eyes met hers

The tension Shelby felt towards Joseph was rising again. She parted her lips slightly. Her eyes searched his. Unconsciously, her hand moved beside his leg and rested there comfortably. "What are you saying Joseph."

He wanted to say how he felt, he wanted to know she felt the same. The raw gut feelings raged to get out. Joseph took a breath and started. "You're important to. . . ."

Suddenly his badge chirped into life "Dunn to Commander D'Callan."

Joe reached up and tapped his badge, shifting his eyes away from Shelby. "D'Callan here."

"We've got some more of those fights in the mess this time. I'm going to need back up this time."

"Be there a few minutes Dunn, D'Callan out." Joseph stood on the rung and stepped down. As his eyes evened with hers he reached out and patted her on the shoulder. "Whatever is going on Shelby...trust me...have faith in yourself. You have a home here on the Arabella." Pausing he took a few steps down and added. "If you want to talk later, call me." Going down the tube Joseph shook his head as he cleared Shelby's location. Then he jogged to the turbo lift cursing the interruption.

[X]

Joint post by Meds and Just X

Jumping down from the jeffries tube Joseph looked up to where he'd just left Shelby. Damn it! he thought. I should have said something better.

Turning, he ran towards the turbo lift and tapped his com badge "D'Callan to Dunn, lock it down, under no circumstances do anything unless they are in danger, I'll see if Commander Oryn can help soften any outcome. " Standing in the lift he tapped his com badge again "Oryn. I wonder if i could use your diplomatic skills in the mess area. One of my officers has reported another incident, I'd appreciate your help."

Entering the turbo lift and Joseph shook his head but his thoughts were interrupted by Commander Oryn's voice.

"Where did this happen and what are the details?" Replied the voice of the Romulan commander.

Joseph left the lift and ran down the corridor and continued to reelay the information. "Mess area Oryn, My security team have locked the area down, they are under orders to wait until we arrive, I'll meet you outside."

Getting to the mess area Joseph unclipped a small device on his belt he looked at the time device. "One minute 20 seconds. Must have something on my mind. Chris, what's the sitiuation here?"

Christopher turned round fromlooking through the mess window. "Have no idea boss. They just kicked off."

Joseph leant in and looked through the window. "Please tell me Mr Dunn that no one from the Arabella crew is in there?"

"No sir. Just Romulans "

Joseph took in a deep breath "Thank god for that."

Moments later, Commander Oryn appeared in D'Callan view as he rounded a corner.

Joe smiled at the Commander "I thought you could possibly teach this chief of security the art of Romulan diplomacy."

"Romulan diplomacy?" Oryn mused. "I'm better with restoring order than I am with hand holding. Some times, you need to tell people what you expect and leave no room for negotiation. I didn't make plans tonight to have them disrupted by a few troublemakers that think their evening is more important than mine."

"I'm just this side of tossing a stun grenade into the room and letting medical sort it out. Anyone with any sense should have already left the problem area." the romulan said as he made his way towards the door. "Did this pull you away from anything important?"

Joseph looked at him, "Yes, yes i'm afraid I was dealing with ... well trying to make something a bit more personal." Joseph looked up as he placed his hand on the door and looked back at Oryn "Good lord Oryn, earlier today we was snapping at each other and now i'm chatting to you like your an agony aunt."

Oryn laughed. "I'm a people person. You wouldn't believe how many people choose to open up to me. So, what's the crux of your problem?"

The romulan commander let the question hang in the air as the doors to the mess opened at his mark. He peered inside for a quick survey of the rowdy room. Taking a breath, Oryn drew his disrupter and stood tall in the doorway, drawing on ancient words to resolve the problem. "Rebellious subjects, enemies to peace, Profaners of this neighbour-stained steel- "

"Will they not hear?" Oryn glanced to D'Callan with a smile and let his voice carry into the slowly quieting room.

As romulan faces turned to the commander, he continued his soliloquy,  moving closer to the rambunctious mob. "What, ho! You men, you beasts that quench the fire of your pernicious rage with jade fountains issuing from your veins! On pain of torture, from those bloody hands, throw your mistempered weapons to the ground!"

Oryn's finger tapped the activation stud of his weapon as he stared at the crowd. Words he could spare, but sympathy he could not. If any even looked like they would continue the disruption, he would have to make an example of them. "While we are still in generous spirits, I suggest that you return to the comforts of your beds and families lest you find yourselves enjoying the comfort of the commander's brig!"

Joseph stood by Oryns side and leant in slightly "This sounds a bit like Shakespeare mate" Oryn looked at him quickly as Joseph winked. He walked forward. "Please everyone, listen to the good Commander here. We should be reaching our destination soon. Look after your families and be with them."

Slowly the angry Romulans, calmed by Oryns words and the underdstanding of D'callans last statement. Slowly they began to walk towards the door, quickly joseph turned round and looked at Dunn, a quick whisk of his hand, un-noticable by everyone except his trained security officers Dunn holstered his phaser and he in turn did the action to the other guards who all made themselves look open.

Watching the people leave Oryn looked back at D'callan, "I hope that this doesn't set my plans back much. I'm getting a little bored of having a large empty bed and there are far too many beautiful women on this ship for that to continue."

Joseph laughed "An empty bed Commander? I think i know how you feel, I thought you would find it easy to warm your sheets."

"Where is the fun and passion in easy?" Oryn asked. "I really enjoyed the excitement of hunt in the past. For the most past my flirting has been, you humans have a phrase for it, catch and release. Now, I'd be happy with catching and keeping a very elusive target."

Joseph looked "I'm tired of the chase, My emptyness is my own fault."

Oryn waved the last of the Romulans out of the mess area and he turned back to the Chief Security officer. "Then why be alone? With all of the women on this ship and given the length of the assignment, I would expect for some to want to pair off with someone else. You don't seem like a coward and that would be the only reason that you're alone. If someone stokes your passion, go after them before they aren't there to be found anymore.

Joseph quickly glance at him, indicating that he had hit the right word of a very delicate tone. "Hmmm, I fear you are right Commander. My sister and now you speak wise words, I think its time I made my move."

Oryn smiled, "I think that we'd both do well to stop playing games with the people we care for."

Leaving the mess hall D'Callan looked at Dunn, "get this cleaned up and have a report sent to the Captain and myself" Dunn nodded and entered the room Joseph looked at Oryn "Thank you for your assistance Commander, i'll buy you that drink in the bar soon" Joseph turned and jogged back to his quarters, he had a good feeling about this.

"Have a good evening commander D'Callan," Oryn called out as he made way back to his quarters and his guest.

[Feathers]

The holodeck doors whined shut behind the Ferengi and he headed toward the turbolift, towelling sweat from his bald orange pate as he went. He'd half expected Ensign Daelen to show this evening since she'd missed yesterday's little arrangement but he wasn't wholly surprised that she hadn't. If a whole boat load of Ferengi had suddenly shown up aboard, he guessed that he'd also be more than a little distracted when off duty.

Still, he'd had a good session and an even better workout although he wasn't sure quite how others would regard the content of his programme. Lieutenant Commander K'Tan particularly would be one he'd avoid having find out if he had the choice.

The lift was empty and waiting. This late into the shift, crew mobility was dropping off and today was no exception. "Deck 8, crew quarters." Galdar muttered as the door closed.

He'd increased the size of his opponent for the second time today and had still prevailed, giving him some hope for his future plans. There was a long way to go until he'd be able to hold his own against a full sized Klingon, however, if he ever would.

Ironically, had he thought it through, Galdar would have realised that K'Tan was probably the one person he really should confide in. Not least because the man would probably have been able to help him. The human had been an Academy level unarmed combat instructor for years and would possibly have relished the opportunity of training someone as innocuous as the Ferengi Lieutenant.

The doors hissed open on deck 6 and an engineering crewman stepped into the car. "Deck 15", she announced, nodding at the Ferengi. "Good evening Sir."

"Crewman." Galdar nodded in turn, noting the PADD in the young woman's hand. "Power distribution problems?"

"Yes," his companion affirmed, "still working our way around the changes to the shutttle bay. Ironic really, given that everyone will probably be shipped out again soon enough."

Galdar nodded absently then caught himself. "Whatever happens with these particular passengers, I suspect the Captain will wish to retain the facility of the evacuation accomodation."

Doors opening, the Ferengi smiled at the engineer before leaving the car and trotting off down the corridoor to his room...and a shower.

[Shelby D]

After leaving the Jefferies tube and taking a bit more of a walk, Shelby found herself at Nalah's door again. She talked with the officer on duty and he reported that he believed that the Romulan was still stirring about inside the room.  Pressing the door chime Daelen waiting.

"Enter"

Walking into the room, Shelby smiled slightly to the woman, "Good evening Nalah. How are you?"

Nalah rose from the bed on which she had been sitting. She pulled down on her jumpsuit to remove the wrinkles. "I'm fine," she said and then added,"Thank you. I regret my action in your sickbay, I apologize if I caused you any trouble."

"These things happen...everyone has been under a stress...." Shelby's eyes went to the empty plate and cups on a tray nearby. "I take it the mess sent that spicy Romulan dish I asked them to send to you for dinner. It is my favorite and I felt like taking a gamble with you."

"It was passable," she said, a slight smile coming to her lips. "Shame it wasn't accompanied with a decent Romulan Ale."

"After all this is over, maybe we shall find some and have a drink." To anyone else, it might sound funny for Shelby to be saying what she was, considering their pairs first meeting. Moving further in Daelen crossed over and looked out the window.

"I too have been staring out that window. Looking back at where Romulus once was." She sighed and continued," A world which never wanted me...which I now miss." She laughed. "And now it's gone and I am still the outcast. Were you sent to see if I had become more agreeable?"

"No, not at all?" She mused in a low voice, "I thought we might just talk a little." turning her stormy gaze towards the Romulan woman. "Seeing as we are in some ways, the same..."

"Perhaps......," Nalah said, still uncertain. "But you have found your place in this world," she said looking around at the room, " I have not."

Titling her head Shelby softly sighed to herself. "I think you could very easily. "Walking from the window the security officer crossed to the other side of the room. "You have a lot to offer....the Romulan people are changing and you can offer them some of that change"   

"Not as long as those petty Senators continue to hold sway over what remains of our people," she said with a sneer.

"I think you give them too much power. You are a strong woman Nalah, a proud woman and you could serve your people in a way no others could. Politicians come and go..."

"Sniveling sycophants like Navash seem to linger the longest, though." She walked over and stood by Shelby gazing out the window. "The Romulan people would be best served by the pointed end of a knife to rid themselves of the cancerous corruption."

"Don't you see though," Daelen moved up beside the woman. "All that is on this ship is some of the torn and tattered remnants of a once great people. Rebuilding is not an option. It is a requirement for the Romulan's to survive. Like it or not they are looking for leaders. People who are strong and can see outside of the old ways, some might have even been shunned before because of their differences." She paused to allow her words to sink in.

"I say this because you know what it is to be Romulan; you proved that growing up amidst all the rejection. Hone that, use it and turn it...marshall your strengths and help our people" Although she had never been fully able to say that she felt that Nalah if given the chance could do more for herself than fight against the past. "Despite the past make a future..."

Nalah sighed. "I just wish....my father was here."

"He is...in a way...through you..." Once more telling Nalah about her Father came to mind but she decided it was still too soon. "and I agree he was a great man"

[Jen]

Ryla Drett left her meeting with a new understanding of Commander Oryn. He was the heir to the Romulan Empire, which seemed to explain his powerful personality.  His demeanor could be rather off-putting to the Trill, but it was mostly a display intended to challenge his 'newest marks'. Initially he had convinced the doctor that his goal was to tangle her wits and lure her to his bed, which she was well prepared to avoid. The meeting would later reveal he had platonic business in mind. Though Ryla still thought seduction was a secondary goal, it was obvious to her that Oryn and Cyra Fredrick had a history that he seemed more than willing to repeat. It didn't take her long to realize that his flirtation with her  was some form of test. Through Ryla's reactions, Oryn had gleaned information—information he refused to reveal. This, of course, was another test, which she found rather annoying.

During the meeting, when he finally moved passed his games, he asked her to be a model for the holographic physician aboard the Romulan Station. Ryla disliked the pompous EMH programs and did not relish the idea of an artificial CMO baring her features and personality. The Trill refused in a manner that left no doubt of her true feelings on the matter, which lead to Oryn to his next proposition. He wanted her help in narrowing down the candidates applying for the positions aboard the station he would soon command. This she could agree to, which she did with a hearty hand shake and an offer of friendship.

"Lights," said Ryla as she stepped through the door of her quarters. The space was instantly illuminated by a preprogrammed intensity, revealing a comfortably bedraggled room. Holo-images lined the wall; pictures intended to remind her of home, family, friends and good times. One such image, of the animated variety, showed a pre-joined Ryla Emarin punching her best friend in the arm. The loop begain again, as Galdar returned the punch and they both silently laughed.

Ryla stepped over a hastily disposed uniform jacket and sat at desk piled high with padds. There were a number of communiques that demanded her attention, but she started with the one from her sister and worked her way down. Ryla wanted to return those messages while she had the chance, for it was likely she would be too busy to do so in the coming days. Arabella would be arriving at the Station tomorrow, and she would begin assisting Oryn in his recruitments.