Star Trek: Season 10

[Meds]

 JOINT POST BY JUSTX, JEN & MEDS

Aeric sat quietly as the last of the staff departed the meeting. While matters of the mind were normally an issue the counselor would handle, this was something that he wanted to address himself. The XO smiled to Sevryll, Joe, and Oryn, the only three people remaining in the room.

"Thank you for staying," the commander said. "Despite the success of the mission, I can't help but sense a little tension. Mr. Oryn, I can't read you as well, but I don't think that the tension is one-sided."

"It isn't," Oryn replied coolly. "It takes me a few days to get over someone trying to kill me."

Looking at him, Joseph cocked his head. "I could quite easily have stunned you straight away, Commander Oryn. I gave you the chance to speak. Coming aboard this ship unannounced does not sit well with me."

"Are you familiar with how your weapon works?" Oryn retorted calmly, almost too calmly. "A phaser that close kills on any setting. Was it because I'm romulan? My weapons were clearly in the open and both hands were full of non weapons to further decrease my threat. Having seen you at work, I think you might have more of a problem with my people than how I arrived. I arrived the way I did because I carried a warning. At the time, I really wasn't thinking about it hurting the feelings of the security chief."


Joseph burst out laughing and shook his head. "Oh dear, is that the best you can do? Throwing a racist card in to cover yourself is rather childish. My job is protecting the people on this ship, regardless of where they come from. I could not see what you had in front of you, having your back to me indicates you are hiding something. You are still talking Commander...count yourself lucky."

Aeric remained calmly mute as he made no attempt to reign in the conversation. Both men were stressed and a good shout could work wonders releasing that stress.


Sevryll listened to the men's emotional posturing. She was trained in Cthia and she held it dear. Cast Out fear. Cast out hate and rage. Cast out greed and envy. Cast out all emotion that speeds entropy, whether it be love or hate. Cast out these emotions by using reason to accept them, and move past them. These were the doctrines of Surak and she had clung to them even in her darkest hour... She hoped that Joseph, the young man she had agreed to be godmother too, would one day understand them.


Before the Romulan could counter her Chief Of Security, the captain intervened in a calm alto that held. "Mockery, gentlemen, is illogical... yet your logic is obviously lacking. As such, you leave me no choice but to order you both to govern your tongues." She turned her dark eyes on Joseph; they held disappointment despite the stolid expression worn on her face."I realize you were taken off guard by Commander Oryn's presence here, as was I, but I have informed you of his reason for being on my ship. That should be enough for you. I do not require you to befriend the commander, but I do insist that my officers conduct themselves in a professional manner."

[X]

Joint post by Meds, Jen, and Just X

Sevryll slowly rolled her gaze from Joseph to Commander Oryn. He wore his pride like the bright plumage of a male peacock—fanned before his competition to advertise his dominance. It was a flaw that obviously carried over from the pre-Surak Vulcans; a fault that most of her people had evolved beyond... most...but not all. She watched him a moment in silence, almost challenging him to contest her order. When she believed the hush had carried long enough, she broke it once more, "Mr. D'Callan is a competent officer. I trust him with my life. He did not have the security clearance and thus had not been informed of your ensuing arrival," sensing Oryn may interrupt, she continued without pause, "I appreciate the risk you took to inform us of the potential threat, commander. It was an honorable action worthy of gratitude and respect." In that moment, she almost expected the Romulan to mentally fan his tail feathers for Joseph. She continued,  "Irregardless, until your identity could be confirmed you were to be considered a threat to this ship and it's mission. Mr. D'Callan's first duty is to protect this crew and he did so with a sense of duty equal to your own. I ask that you each respect eachother's part in this assignment—move past whatever it is you are holding against one another before it becomes a hindrance to this operation."

Oryn licked his lips and smiled to the gathered. "From what little I know of you captain, I believe that you have sound judgment. My issue isn't a sight against your officer, but a warning. We are in a very fragile situation and honor is quite important to my people. What he did, regardless of his intent, was an attack on that honor. I can forgive that, but if it happens to someone else, it could become a serious problem. If other unexpected non-romulans are greeted with a customary phaser to the back of the skull, then it's a standard. If it's only the romulans that get this greeting, you can see where it might seem like a personal issue."

Aeric shook his head. "I'm not going to say that everything that happened was perfect and by the book, but overall the situation was handled without a shot being fired and no one getting hurt. In my book, that's a good start while we are getting used to the cultural differences. Joe is family. He might be a little brash at times. He might not quite know when not to make a witty remark, but he knows how to do his job. I think that you both want to protect the people under your charge and if you haven't realized it yet, those groups overlap and place you squarely on the same team."


Joseph shook his head and sighed as he felt his temper suddenly calm. The rebuke and then praise from his Captain and the factual words of his XO woke him up from his stubbornness. He looked up at the Romulan. "Commander, i can assure you if you were a human, klingon or cardassian i would have acted in the exact same way. I admit I am a brash at times, and i offer my apologies for any offence to your honor. I take my job seriously and in my own small defence am very protective over this crew and the two people sitting with us. I hope you accept my apology Commander".

"Consider us square," the romulan said in some of the old earth slang that he manged to learn. "I really can't afford to be angry or hold grudges. It's one of the less endearing traits of my people, but you'd be hard pressed to find a more passionate species. It's something that is also a great strength when in the right context. I'm sorry that it even reached that point. For the empire to come out of this better, we'll need to lead by example and I haven't done that yet."

Joseph smiled at the Commander. "I'm an Australian mate, my countrymen get quite passionate about quite a few things, family, work, cricket and beer. I think we are very much alike, are we not?"

[X]

Commander James entered his office with a drink and PADD in hand. The morning staff briefing had gone much better than he had expected, but there was still much to do. Out in the black, something stalked them. It wasn't something that he was comfortable with. While trained as a scientist, his long career had place him on the battlefield too many times to not leave him unchanged.

"Computer, Mobeus' Wanderlust," he ordered and took a sip of his beverage. It was a song from early twenty-first century earth that hearkened back to the old earth style of a rock ballad. He had discovered the piece during a tour of the museum dedicated to the Bell Riots of the same time.

As the soft guitar filtered into the room, Aeric took a seat at his desk and brought up the remainder of reports that he need to review. Taking another sip of his drink, the XO placed the coffee cup on the edge of the desk and began his work. While one hand held the PADD he currently reviewed, the other tapped in notes and comments into the interface built into the top of the desk.


It had taken less than an hour for the XO to review all pending report and to build his own from their information. While the crew were hard at work adjusting to their new guest, some of the tension had been relieved now that they were being moved into actual quarters. Had the Arabella been another vessel, the sudden addition of extra lifeforms might have caused some strain to the ship. The Arabella did not have that problem, she was designed to go the distance. Power generation systems were cutting edge and easily adapted to the additional resource needs. If only the crew could adapt so quickly.

"Computer, transfer all daily reports and recommendations to Captain Sevryll." The XO said and rose from his chair. As habit dictated, the XO would start his tour of random departments to personally check on progress and mood of the crew, the department heads, and their assistants. Aeric preferred a personal approach when dealing with his command duties. While he couldn't get to know every single crewman on an intimate level, he could meet them put place faces on names and crew records.

"Computer, discontinue music and shutdown lighting," Aeric said and left the room.   

[Feathers]

As the main doors to Engineering slid open, a number of the crew glanced up from their stations, idle curiosity dictating that they check out the identity of the new arrival. The elderly Romulan standing in the doorway stopped in his tracks at the sudden excess of attention, framed by the door his presence prevented from closing.

Stiffening, he straightened and took three careful steps forward, his frailty evident in each movement. Halting once again, he was far enough into the room to allow the door to close but not far enough to represent any significant threat of intrusion. Retaining his military stance, he waited.

"May I help you." the flat statement said everything and nothing and the Romulan had to fight from revealing his mirth. He'd seen a few Vulcans in his life but would never get used to their complete lack of feeling.

"My pardon." he replied, "It appears that I am not where I wish to be...Commander?" This last was said carefully as he peered at the engineers rank pips. At Tolok's the nod of affirmation, the man relaxed slightly. "I was looking for the lounge. I believe it is on this deck?"

The Chief Engineer regarded the intruder weighing the likely truth of the statement. "It appears you have been turned around. This is the main engineering space. The Afterburner is a few sections forward."

The Romulan smiled openly now. "I know well what this is, young man." Tolok blinked...Young?...I served as an engineer in the service of the empire on more than one warbird in my career and am...was...well acquainted with the engineering equipment in use in the Federation."

"Then you will perhaps be aware that this is a restricted area when it comes to passengers. I'm afraid I must ask you to leave." the Lieutenant Commander remained polite but the hint of authority in his voice was not easily missed.

"I understand entirely, Sir. If you could point me in the correct direction, I will be on my way." Turning, the elderly man reentered the range of the door detector, crossing to stand just outside once the door had fully opened.

Taking a decision that surprised him, Tolok nodded to Lieutenant Garriss before following their visitor out of the door. Despite the illogical nature of the feelings, the Vulcan was intrigued by this polite and possibly friendly old man who appeared to retain a measure of good humour despite the dire nature of his circumstances only the day before. Clearly happy to be on board a ship, any ship, his underemphasised brow ridges made him close enough to Vulcan in appearance to confuse Tolok's very strong racial sense of self.

"Let me assist you." he said, taking the old man's arm to lend support as they turned into the corridor together

[wraith1701]

After leaving the officer's briefing, K'Tan headed to his office on deck two. As he stepped into the turbolift, he sighed to himself.  Reviewing the logs of the previous shifts and following up on efficiency reports were not his favorite part of the job, but they were vital.  One unexplained power surge, no matter how minor, could be the sign of imminent failure in the EPS system.  K'Tan patted the bulkhead.  Buried behind the Arabella's nondescript wall panels, the Electro Plasma System pulsed with life, carrying power to all of the ship's systems.  Similar to a living circulatory system,  except that instead of carrying blood, the EPS conduits carried enough power to turn the ship's crew to ash. 

The turbolift slowed to a halt, and K'Tan sprang through the doors, nearly colliding with a smiling Cardassian.  "DorshoGa!" he cursed, skidding to a halt.  "Watch where you are going!"

The Cardasian gave him an oily, obsequious smile.  "My apologies Commander. Next time, I'll be sure to use my clairvoyance to predict when someone is about to come barreling out of a turbolift." 

K'Tan eyed the man, biting back the impulse to respond to his sarcasm. As the Cardassian turned to leave, K'Tan grasped him by an arm.  "One moment.  This deck is off limits to civilians.  What are you doing here?"

Still smiling, the Cardassian gave a slight bow.  "I meant no harm, commander.  I was trying to find a free holodeck, and I got lost." 

The two stared at each other, K'Tan's glower warring with the Cardassian's cold smile. After what seemed like an eternity, the Cardassian broke the silence.  "By the way, I noticed that you speak Klingon.  Allow me to congratulate you on your pronunciation." 

K'Tan's lip twitched with a smirk.  "So, you are an expert on the Klingon language, eh?"

"Let us just say, I've had some dealings with the Klingons."  The Cardassian took a step closer to K'Tan, and stared up at him, unblinking.  "Why, I remember one Klingon named KoraQ' who was particularly unpleasant."  The Cardassian chuckled.  "Most Foreheads are rude, but this one was a master of the art.  And talk about stubborn!"  The Cardassian gave K'Tan a conspiratorial wink.  "That Forehead was so stubborn, it'd be more fitting to call him a Five-head!"  The Cardassian erupted into laughter, only pausing when he noticed that K'Tan wasn't sharing the joke.

"Very charming," K'Tan growled through gritted teeth.  Tightening his grip on the Cardassian's arm, K'Tan forced him back to the turbolift.  As the doors swept opened, K'Tan roughly shoved him in. 

"Be sure you don't get lost again," He snarled.  "I'd hate for you to accidentally walk out of an airlock."

[Shelby D]

Joint post by JustX, Shelby Daelan, and Bryancd

Shelby reached Nalah's quarters just past 0900hrs. She nodded briefly to the man at the door and she pressed the door panel to announce her arrival before she entered.

Walking into the room she smiled at the Romulan woman who had the appearance of being more energized than she had previously felt. "You seem to be feeling better Nalah." Shelby said pleasantly.

Nalah inclined her head in acknowledgment. "I feel...better. I'm not used to being so retrained in my movements, this mornings recreation was welcome." And then quietly she added," I..I thank you."

Tilting her head slightly, Shelby walked over to look at the computer which appeared to have not been used at all; not that she would have blamed her.

"There are a few procedural things that we need to do and the way I see it - it will give us an excuse to get you out of here. What do you say?"

"That would be agreeable," Nalah said with a slight smile.

Gesturing slightly to accommodating understanding how the woman might feel, Shelby said. "Medical exam, all the refugee's are getting them and I felt it would additionally give us an excuse to wander and let you stretch your legs more than anything."

Nalah sighed. "If I must endure the ministrations of your doctor's an opportunity to move about seems a fair bargain."

Gesturing towards the door she lead the way and the pair headed into the hallway. "Do you have a favorite food dish I could see about getting it for you. I know the fare has been standards but I could see what I could do for you." Shelby offered honestly.

"I don't have a very refined palate. I grew up on military rations which Pardek would bring to us such as viinerine, I'm sure your replicators would do it justice!" she laughed. "But perhaps later. Best we get the unpleasant business done first."

"Perhaps," Turning a corner with the Romulan woman, Shelby laughed a little, then as the pair walked the rest of the way to the sick bay they exchanged pleasant conversation.

[Shelby D]

Joint post by Jen, JustX, Shelby Daelan, and Bryancd

Upon arriving at medical Shelby made sure that she was a bit more on guard. After all she didn't even know if Nalah would have amicable relations with the other Romulan's on board yet.

Walking past some other Federation crew members for various reasons, Daelen moved across the room to find Ryla, "Doctor Drett." Turning slightly the security officer smiled, "I have a patient for you. This is Nalah."

The doctor gazed up at Ensign Daelen before her eyes moved to the equally tall Romulan woman at the security officer's side. "Hello," she said with a dimple framed smile.  Two pairs of keen gray eyes settled on the doctor, but only one of the visitors returned her friendly smile. The Trill had not meet many Romulans and as such she still found it odd that two such individuals, visiting her sickbay at the same time, would have eyes of such an unusual color for their species.

She herself had haze-brown eyes, but variety was not uncommon among her own people. She dismissed the oddity for a moment, and with a motion of her hand, indicated an open biobed, "have a seat Nalah." It didn't take a Betazoid to sense the heavy dread emanating from Shelby's friend... in fact, it seemed to seep from her pores like perspiration. "The exam is non-invasive... I promise it won't take more than a few minutes."

Nalah gave the doctor a curt nod and sat upon the bed as Ryla removed a tricorder from her lab coat and activated the device.

From nearby, Nevash watched the newcomers with great interest. The Senator had not felt well that day, but it did not stop her from noticing the strangers speaking with Doctor Drett. She narrowed her eyes as a sudden realization dawned on her.

"What is your name child?" she demanded from the almost familiar looking romulan woman.

Nalah turned to address the voice which had directed the question towards her. The Romulan Senator maintained an air of dignity even lying in a medical bed. Nalah's skin grew cold and her heart beat increased with anxiety. Dr. Drett's instruments recorded the event, the doctor's raised her eyebrows in surprise. "I....," Nalah desperately tried to think how to respond, and then decided on simply the truth. Her heart settled down. "I am Nalah Jarok," she said as she sat up a little bit straighter.

Shelby's eyes sharpened at this exchange. She was getting a bad feeling about this.

"Ah." The woman chuckled. "The spawn of that traitorous fool, Alidar. I would have thought your mother would have had the sense to distance you from his name. Clearly she is as much a fool as he. Were I you, I would slink away and hope that you family's dishonor and name dies with you. There is no place for traitors here. Go fall upon your honor blade like any true Romulan would at her parent's disgrace."

Knowing how fast Nalah could move, Shelby was still taken off guard by how quickly the woman was off the table and rushing towrards the Senator, her hands twisted into claws, her voice a roar of anger.

The security officer moved on instinct and dove towards Nalah. The force at which Shelby hurled herself sent both women crashing to the ground in grunts of pain. The ensign used her weight to pin the other woman to the ground and spoke in panting breaths. "Calm down!"

Nalah's breathing was labored as she struggled against the security officer. Her eyes darted over to the Senator and she growled again, pushing against Shelby's arms. Nalah felt the rage subside, but her hatred still shown through her eye's towards Navash. "You should have died with the rest!" Nalah spat.

A shrill sound that surprised all, including its willful source, filled the sickbay. It seemed Lieutenant Stass's quick and dirty lesson in the art of whistling had proven successful. At a volume that defied her small stature, the doctor's command swiftly followed it up, "that's quite enough! Senator, you seem bent on a dispute with anyone who enters my sickbay. If you continue on this path, I'm going to haul you to the big myself! You'll be out of here so fast you'll think your backend was fitted with a warp drive."

"No more Nalah. We are leaving." There was no way Shelby was going to let another incident like the shuttle bay happen again. Nalah would listen to her and stop. Shelby rose slowly and helped the other woman to her feet. Never letting her eyes leave Nalah, Daelen, keeping a grip on her arm, calmly nodded towards the entrance to sick-bay. "Let's go now."

Nalah pasued for a moment, and then herself be directed out of the room, still kept glancing back as Shelby guided her to the exit. By the time the reached the door,  Shelby had relaxed her grip just a touch. It was then that Nalah rushed forward, but was once again stopped by the security officer blocking her path and forcing her arm around into a lock Nalah could not overcome. She yelled over Daelen's shoulder, the anger forcing her to her native tongue, "You will die like a dog!!!"

Giving the romulan woman a hard shove out the door Daelen finally managed them out of sick bay and away from the situation.  

[Meds]

Joseph looked at the wall in his security office, he drew his fingers down the antique cricket bat that was mounted there. He took his seat and ran threw the days appointments, fairly quiet day he mused. "Computer locate Ensign Daelen" The computer chirped back immediatley "Ensign Daelen is on deck 5" Joseph stood leant against the replicator "Tea, hot, white" sitting down he took a sip of his hot tea and decided to make his rounds.

[Shelby D]

JP by Bryan CD & Crystal

The door slid open and Shelby pushed Nalah into her room, releasing the grip on her arm. Nalah stumbled forward, holding her arm and shoulder as she massaged out the pain. She looked over at Daelen, not with defiance but with something more akin to regret. "You'll have to teach me that sometime," she said, a resigned look coming over her face.

Shaking her head, the security officer moved beside the door after it hissed shut behind them. "Nalah, you need to temper yourself. You cannot fight the world."

"I have no world, I don't think I ever did," she said quietly, her eyes looking towards the floor. "All I have even had is my shame. Why?" Nalah looked at Shelby.

"It hurts that is why...." This time Shelby's sympathies were more obvious towards the Romulan woman. "It hurts to be rejected by those around you....especially when you have no control over the reason why you are being rejected." Pausing she let the woman's eyes connect with hers and she hoped that Nalah understood that she did understand how it felt.  

"Why would my father abandon me and our people?" It was the first time Nalah had included Shelby in that respect. "Creatures like Navash made sure our shame would never die, so I wish death upon them."

"I do not have an answer to that question..." Looking downwards Shelby hoped the woman comprehended where she was coming from. "You cannot let them control you like this anymore. You are better than that; stronger. I see in you the anger but you do not have to live like that."

"I can never forgive them....or him." Nalah said and slowly rolled onto her side on the bed, facing away from Shelby to hide a single tear that escaped her eye. "Please, leave me, " her voice a whisper.

"Nalah..." She hoped the woman would talk to her. She really believed that this was a pivotal moment for the young woman and she just needed to take it by the reigns. But Shelby couldn't turn the situation around for her by telling her what she was doing. No, that was just collateral in the bigger picture.

Unfortunately, the Romulan didn't respond, she simply pulled the covers over her shoulder and pretended that Daelen wasn't there.

With one last look Shelby walked out leaving Nalah to her thoughts.

[Shelby D]

JP by Meds & Crystal

Joseph looked up from his desk as his door chimed. "Come"

The doors opened to reveal Ensign Daelen standing there for a second, then she proceeded in. She had received a message that on her lunch come see him in his quarters. "You called."

Looking up D'Callan pressed a button on his computer and stood. "Yes, Shelby, sit down" he gestured to the sofa in his quarters. "I've been thinking about what you said regarding your enquiries about Commander Oryn's ship. I'm will admit I am not overly enthusiastic about you going."

Shelby moved to the offered seat and then shifted those stormy orbs to him. "Why sir?"

Walking towards the sofa, Joseph picked up a PADD and sat next to her "I have my reasons, lets just leave it at that"

Frowning slightly she shifted her gaze downwards and then to the striking picture across the room. It was a large work, splashed with vibrant colors which had been struck upon the canvas with bold, purposeful strokes. Icy blues and rich reds along with other shades were spread across the painting randomly. Shelby thought it was very much a mirror of the man; bold, strong and something of a statement, as well as appealing. "I see." She said turning her eyes to him.

Reaching out with his hand he offered her a PADD. "Right" he brushed along her wrist. Upon contact; there was a spark between them and he looked up at her at the exact same time she returned gaze his. In that second her lips parted ever so slightly. The touch lasted only a few short seconds along with the eye contact but it was enough for D'Callan to suddenly take the PADD back off her.

Standing he strode across to his antique drinks cabinet. "Maybe this is not the best of idea's after all. The Commander is our guest, what would be gained from upsetting the apple cart." Joseph poured two drinks, his finest brandy.

Handing it to Shelby he watched her slender hand take the tumbler. As she took it she could still feel the warmth of his contact with the glass and she forced her thoughts away from the incident in the holosuite the night before. Lifting the glass she sipped the dark liquid "I agree with that...however, it's a bit more than just obtaining information Joseph. I'd like to find out more about my Romulan side."

Lowering her eyes she held the glass between her hands. "I've been thinking a lot since all these Romulan's arrived. My human side is full to the top of emotions. I am a Romulan as well. What's that mean? Maybe I've missed something. Shouldn't I be both? I don't even know if I can get my other half to balance out. Does that make any sense?"

Listening to the ensign, Joseph couldn't' rightly say he knew how she felt, but as she spoke the words it made the growing animal inside of him conspiratorially mumble -  she was fine the way she was. Slamming the door on the entity, he'd been working to control inside of him, D'Callan lifted his eyes from the swirling liquid in his glass to look at her and sigh. "Is it that important to you Shel?"

She stood and retrieved the PADD from him. "Do you really think I would risk so much if it wasn't?"

Turning, they looked at each other again and Joe pressed the button on the device and he seemed to be deciding if he would give it to her.  

Shelby rose and moved to place the tumbler on the desk, when she looked back she found Joe D'Callan at the painting. He was distracted, it was almost as if it would give him something else he could not get any other way. She felt inside a softening towards him even more, she stepped to him, wanting to say something. finally she spoke. "If you don't want me to go - "

"No, I think you should for no other reason than that." Gesturing towards the door, D'Callan walked with her into the hallway, just next to the door to his quarters.

Pivoting he gave her a supportive gaze. Placing his hand on her shoulder, which in itself summoned up designs of his own in his head that he had to force away immediately. "I know I don't have to say this, but, be careful. Don't let the good commands mess with this and this" Joseph tapped his own temple and then his chest. "the PADD has all the requests. Read them. Then report back"

Watching his eyes for a moment longer, Shelby smiled and slipped the PADD from his fingers then she turned & walked away.

Joseph also turned, set on heading past his quarters and to his office, but he stopped and glanced back to watch her leave.  

[Meds]

JOINT POST Y CRYSTAL AND MEDS

The Cardassian walked down the corridor smiling at various members of the crew. Turning a corner he saw the chief of security talking to a female Romulan officer; an interesting sight to see for sure. D'Callan's back was to him but as the Chief turned away from the woman Rayan witnessed the chief glance back and watch her walking away; then smile as he headed in Rayans direction.

Deliberately bumping into Joseph he struck up a conversation. "Ah Mr. D'Callan. How are you today?"

Joseph looked at him, smiled and continued to walk; hoping he would lose interest and leave. "I'm very good thank you Mr Rayan" Joseph offered no lead for the conversation but Rayan walked with him.

"Off anywhere nice?"

"Only work Rayan." Came the man's toneless response. "Do you not have any hair to cut today?" Rayan looked over and raised his eye brow.

"Ah, so you know." Joseph smiled slightly.

"Indeed, in fact we'll be talking to you some where along the line about your inflated ego"

Rayan slowed and then thought slowly before catching up. "Mr D'Callan, I think we have more to talk about.." Joseph picked up his pace. While the relentless Cardassian followed. "We all have our secrets. They are not crimes. I wonder how many secrets there are around here."

Joseph spotted the turbolift opening ahead and he walked even faster; if he was lucky he could ditch this alien like a bad date.

Yet he persisted, finally matching his pace. "How about you Mr D'Callan? Are there any skeletons in your closet. Maybe even a skeleton weighing say 63kgs and about 5 foot ten."

Stopping Joseph gave him a hard stare. "I have been polite now I am telling you. I have work to do Mr Rayan. You will please excuse me now." attempting to keep his calm he resumed walking towards the turbo lift.

Rayan refused to let his fun be stopped. "Looks like human types have a thing about women with pointy ears. Your Captain and her Second in Command do lead the way in inter-ranking courtships. And now a Lieutenant Commander and an Ensign, that is rather scandalous don't you think?" Arriving at the turbo lift, Joseph pressed firmly on the button, gritting his teeth.

"I've known a Vulcan or two to let those pent up emotions go in the bedroom. As for a female Romulan I'm sure they are like fire between the sheets." D'Callan turned slightly as the door opened

"I wouldn't know. I suggest you keep your comments regarding individuals to your self" entering the lift Rayan carried on right into the lift behind Joseph.

"Oh come, come did that sweet little Romulan ensign turn you down?"

The doors shut, both of them gave their level to the computer and it hummed to life. Then, for a minute, the Cardassian stood on one side and the Chief of Security on the other; calmly, silently and then Joseph's anger snapped.

He roared as his hands went to the front of the Cardassian's shirt, clutching it tightly he slammed the alien into the wall. "I have shown the up most patience with you for the last few minutes but if you don't stuff your opinion into your barbar bag I will make sure that they won't even find little pieces of you floating outside of the ship.

"The Cardassian started to laugh, it was a deep, throaty chuckle which displayed no fear of D'Callan or his threats. "Mister D'Callan, please...it was all in good fun..." He held his hands out as if showing he had no weapons. "Just two friends playing around."

Shoving him again against the wall he scowled. "You're not my friend and I suggest you steer clear of every person you mentioned from this point on."

The door to the turbo lift opened and Joseph walked out leaving Rayan dusting his his tunic whilst smiling to himself.

[Allen]

Joint post by Jen and Allen

Herm was about to enter the shuttle-bay dormitory when he ran into Sutpak, "Ah, my boy! It's good to see you. Where are you going in such a rush?"

"I was coming to see you," said Herm "I was hoping to..."

"Well, then walk with me. I have an appointment to see that pretty doctor of yours."

Herm noticed he had the pouch with him. The artifact inside had totally consumed his thoughts. How had this Romulan acquired it? What was it's significance to him? How was Herm going to get it from him? Yes. He had to get it from him, at least to examine it.

They entered the turbolift and called for sick-bay.

"Sutpak, I was hoping you would let me look at the tablet again."

"Ah, yes, I knew you'd come asking for it. It seems to have that effect on people. Once you've seen it, you can't think of anything else."

"Please, if I may, I have the equipment back at the science lab to..."

"All in good time my boy... all in good time. Good, we're here."

The Sickbay doors opened to show an unusually large number gathered to see the doctor. Sutpak and Herm waded into the crowd to find a seat and wait.

Ryla noticed the elderly Romulan with the young ensign when they entered, but was too busy to see them right away. Eventually the crowd dispersed, thanks to Doctor Peterson and Nurse Caine, and the Trill was finally able to help the last patient waiting to see her. "I'm sorry you had to wait," she said. She smiled to the ensign and offered a hand to the old man, "I'm doctor Drett."

"Well, hello!", replied Sutpak, with all the charm he could muster. It seemed there was one thing that didn't change no matter what species you were, old men always flirted shamelessly with attractive young women. "You are much prettier than I expected. Every doctor I've seen before has been a grumpy old man, but you are a sight!"

She waved him over to a biobed and removed her tricorder from her lab coat as Herm helped the older man sit down. Herm couldn't help but notice the pouch clunking against the edge of the biobed. Why was he suddenly so obsessed? He really should be attending to other duties, but here he was, in sickbay, watching an old man get an exam.

Ryla laughed, "thank you...you're a surprise as well. I am afraid most of your fellow passengers adamantly dislike me," she said as she glanced to the two senators who were now well enough to sit up. "I don't think I was given your name...."

"I am Sutpak, Sutpak Choro. It is a great pleasure to meet you" he replied, lifting her hand as if he were about it kiss it. Instead he stopped short of his face and bowed his head.

The doctor smiled and lifted her tricorder again as he released her hand. Its whir replaced the brief lull in conversation, as she observed the stream of readings. A surprising number of the elderly evacuees were in poor health. Fortunately, their numerous afflictions were easily treatable, like Sutpack's arthritis. She noted his gnarled hands and stooped posture; there was little she could do to completely reverse the damage to his joints, but she could at least stop the progression and improve his motility. She pocketed the tricorder and reached for a hypo. "May I ask you a question, Mr. Charo?"

"It's 'Choro', but please, just call me Sutpak. You may ask me anything you like, e'lev," he said, using a Romulan term of endearment. Herm began to wonder if Sutpak's friends though of him as a dirty old man.

"You mentioned your doctors... did they treat your arthritis?"

"Diseases like arthritis were often ignored, saving the treatment for more...'important' people. Even though, as I understand, the treatments are quite simple and inexpensive. I'm sure when you examined the senators you found their health to be exceptional."

She nodded then lifted the hypo to Sutpack's neck, "this should effectively cure you. If you wish, I can arrange for a surgeon to correct the damage to your joints. I don't have a physician aboard who has seen these sorts of complications, but I know someone in our fleet who has."

Sutpak seemed to straighten a little as the pain left his system. It was obvious from the expression on his face that he had been suffering, but he had never mentioned it or let it show. "Perhaps later, e'lev,  there's time. I plan to be around for many years yet. But for now, if you are finished, perhaps I could interest you in a drink. The young ensign here, has introduced me to a fantastic little place on the holodeck."

Ryla's smile pushed dimples into her cheeks at his offer, "you're very kind, Sutpak." No matter their age, it seemed Romulan males fancied themselves ladies' men. Yet the difference between Oryn and Sutpak, aside from their years, was tact. The elderly Romulan was much more prudent, a trait that no doubt came with maturity. She turned her smile on the Risan Officer standing quietly nearby, "Ensign...?"

Herm was chuckling a bit to himself at the exchange. He hadn't had the opportunity to get to know the doctor very well, but he could tell by her look that she was looking for a polite way to decline. Herm had gotten to know his Romulan friend well enough to know that he really didn't expect her to accept anyway, but he waded in to her rescue.

"Sutpak, I'm afraid the doctor is rather busy, maybe we can catch up to her later in the Afterburner," turning back to the doctor, trying to suppress a laugh, he added, "or perhaps some other time, doctor?"

"Of course..." she said with a broadening smile, "Which program is he referring to?"

"It's under 'Sarine's Place' in the library. It's a fictional cafe on Romulus in the capital city," answered Herm.

"And a rather nice one at that," interjected Sutpak, "the wait staff is exceptional. Perhaps some other time then, doctor... I will introduce your beauty to that of my home."

"I would like that," she said as she helped the aged man off the biobed and watched with satisfaction as he straighted to his full height. "I bet you have many interesting stories to tell."

"When you've been around as long as I have, you can't help but be interesting." Sutpak stretched as he stood, letting out a loud sigh of relief as he was able to straighten his back. "But I do not wish to keep you from your duties any longer." Bowing deeply he said, "Until next time, e'lev..."

As he bowed, Herm noticed the pouch hanging from his waist. He wanted to reach out, grab it and run. He had secretly hoped the doctor would ask him to take it off so he could look at it while she did her thing, but it stayed securely where it was. Sutpak noticed Herm's stare.

Straightening, the Romulan grinned and said "Come ensign, I believe it's time for some dinner. Maybe I'll let you play with my toy while we eat." Turning, he nodded to the doctor as he led the way into the corridor, an obvious new spring in his step.

[Jen]

Joint Post by Jen and Just X

As a follower of Surak, Sevryll sought to exclude the use of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. As a result, she held no fondness for the full-grain leather of the beige captain's chair. Avoiding the surface of the chair arms, the Vulcan absently folded her slender hands in her lap, crossed her legs at the ankle, and drew them to one side at the base. The hides that made up the luxurious seat she was currently perched in, had not belonged to an animal yet she still found the facsimile disconcerting. At some point in history, a creature or creatures had suffered for the purpose of the replicator program that created her chair—it was this fact that caused her to request a divergent material as a substitute for the conventional upholstery. Unfortunately, the less offensive replacement was never installed. Regardless of the Captain's ethical commitment or moral conviction, a rapid deployment of the Arabella was ordered by Starfleet Command and the newly minted vessel left its berth with a standard leather command chair. Sevryll valued the lives of people as well, and her a concerns regarding the chair quickly evaporated—solicitude for the evacuees, and her missing father, instantly trumped any other considerations.

The captain's thoughts seemed to drift with the stream of stars that flowed before her on the viewer. Had her father managed to escape Romulus? Perhaps the starbase would bring her one step closer to finding him.

Commander James quietly sat at his station and watched as the warp elongated stars moved past the main view screen. Soon they would enter the sensor net of their destination. Much would need to be accomplished. With no pressing issues, the first officer found his thoughts wandering towards his family and earlier times. In the last two days, he and the remaining crew had learned of the station they traveled to and the depth of the agreements with the Imperial Romulan State. That information was only distributed on a need to know basis and until that point, only the captains of the fleet knew of their new home away from home.

"When we arrive at the starbase tomorrow, we should catch up with our old friends within the fleet." Aeric said as he offered a smile to his wife. "I'm sure the kids would enjoy seeing familiar faces. How hard do you think it would be to get an apartment on the station?"

"They've already been assigned," she replied.

"Hopefully that means they spared some diplomatic quarters for the crews visiting on extended leave," he added. "I'm thinking that we should take a day or two with the kids and explore the system and the station."

Without realizing it, Sevryll had answered telepathically and in Vulcan, I would like that.

"ETA until we reach the Phaestus system?" the XO questioned the helm.

Without hesitating, the Ferengi pilot replied, "Fifteen hours at current speed, sir. We're already picking up the fleet and station on the long range sensors."

"Fifteen hours until we reach our location. Add in another eight for the meetings, then we can pack up the Aurora and see what the engineering teams are up to on Phaestus III." Aeric said and thought about the possible new home of the various Vulcanoids. With no tilt to her axis, the world had no true seasons, but climates that could appeal to the four branches of the Vulcan race. She was the only habitable planet in the six planet system, but two of the moons of the gas giant Phaestus V were within the range of minshara class planets.

Sevryll rose as the Beta Shift arrived on the bridge and strode with Aeric to the turbolift. The doors closed before them and the car carried them away from yet another completed duty shift...and the full-grain leather of the beige captain's chair.

[Shelby D]

JP by Eric and Crystal

Thank you for agreeing to see him, Ensign."  K'Tan stepped back from the doorway, and swept his arm out, inviting the security officer into his quarters.

Shelby had finally found the time to stop by at the end of alpha shift to see K'Tan, the request had been unexpected, for in the time they had been on board the Arabella she had had few chances to interact with the man. Although it might have been more out of situation than purpose. Still she was flattered by his request. "It's ok." she said lightly while entering the man's quarters. The ensign had opted to stay in her starfleet uniform as opposed to wearing casual clothes. She did not want the child to take her visit the wrong way.

"He seems to be opening up a little; I've even seen him smile on a couple of occasions.  But so far, he hasn't spoken a word.  It almost makes me wonder if the Universal Translator is working properly."

The woman could see the edges of worry in the man's expression and she marveled at seeing a new dimension of K'Tan. "I am sure it is fine.."  After knowing him in such a different light before, this just made him seem all the more, human. Gray eyes touched his with understanding and she shifted her gaze into his quarters. "Have you taken him to see...Margon yet?"

K'Tan shook his head.  "Not yet, but I intend to.  I just thought it best to work our way up to a session with the counselor.  The child has had his world ripped out from under him; I believe that seeing a familiar face and hearing his own language might help to put him at ease."

"That is probably best...." Seeing the young boy peeking out from behind the second bedroom in K'Tan's quarters, Shelby knelt down and smiled. Then she spoke in a soft, clear Romulan dialect. "Jolan'tru, my name is Shelby..." she paused and let the boy take in her greeting. She said a few more things to the boy, all the while the child seemed to be checking out K'Tan with his eyes to see if the intimidating figure approved of the woman speaking to him.

K'Tan smiled, and ushered the boy forward.  "Go on, little one; she is a friend."

The boy seemed to turn his head slightly, he looked at Shelby curiously, then he stepped out and walked to her. Reaching out to touch the tips of her ears. She smiled and nodded. "Yes, I am Romulan as well." She continued in the familiar language to the boy while he still remained silent.

After gently clearing his throat, K'Tan knelt down next to the child, and looked up at the ensign.  "I'd be indebted if you could find out what his name is.  My lady-friend has taken to calling him "Squirt", and I'm afraid that he might come to accept it as his proper name."

The small child spoke with Shelby, sometimes hesitantly. K'Tan feigned nonchalance as the child's words came to him via the universal translator, hanging on every word.

"Mother said to never give out my family name," the boy said.  "She said that bad people would take me away if I did.  But you and the brown man have been nice to me.  You aren't bad people, are you?"

"No," came Shelby's gentle response. "We want to help you...K'Tan wants to help you....he cares about you...I care about you" She gave him a tender smile and she took the boys hands and squeezed them. "Tell me what your name is...it will be our secret...if that is your wish."

It seemed to take forever, but after a time and a bit more hesitation the young boy timidly offered up in trust, "My name is Vrih Terik..." Shelby smiled at the boy and she held his hands tighter in support.

"Vrih...I like that." Daelen responded quietly.

A shy grin peeked out onto the child's face and he shifted his innocent eyes up to K'Tan finally.

[X]

Joint Post by Just X and Crystal

Shelby had chosen her outfit carefully, selecting a demure, deep red, dress and a pair of flats, while her long tresses tumbled softly along her shoulders. She had made sure that she wasn't giving the appearance of allure but it was pleasing enough. She did this after observing that Oryn liked his women; she could use that if need be.

Errant thoughts filled her mind, she wanted D'Callan to tell her not to go, that troubled her. The Commander was an asset; a chance to gain more information. Letting Joe impact her plan would be wayward. Refocusing, she checked the list the Chief had given her and she left.

At the shuttle bay entrance, Shelby centered herself, walking across to the Romulan's quartered vessel she did not see Oryn. Taking the moment, she studied the ship, finding it fascinating with it's sleek lines and colors which were appealing. She was about to touch it when a cough startled her, pivoting, she discovered the Romulan gazing at her. "Commander Oryn -  

"Ensign Daelen," the blue eyed romulan said as he took in her features. "you're looking quite lovely out of your uniform."

Feigning uncomfortably with his remark, yet it wasn't a complete deception, the woman smiled. "Thank you" While taking in the Commander's smooth appearance.

Oryn motioned for her to enter and he stepped aside to clear the doorway. His own clothing clearly held romulan design elements, but the blacks and greens that he wore were clearly not a uniform. While the almost sheer olive shirt he wore was of the loose fitting variety, it revealed muscle and tone where it touched his flesh. "How are you doing?"

If he had his own agenda, it was well hidden behind that persona. For one as young as he was to have the responsibilities that he did meant one of two things. Either he was very good at his job or he was very good at sleeping his way up the ranks. Oryn oozed confidence as he observed the young Federation romulan. He moved like a predator, secure that his next actions would bring down the prey that he sought. His inner thoughts were still a mystery and he gave no clue to show what prey he actually hunted.

"Very well, thank you." Walking in, Daelen continued the facade of confidence. Although, she didn't feel as brave as she normally did. Covering the insecurities her storm-gray orbs focused on the Romulan. "Did your meetings go as you desired today?" asking while  moving further into his lair.

"Of course," he smiled and allowed her to lead the way. "I'm sure that word of the station will soon be make its rounds through the ship and fleet. I'm going to enjoy myself before I'm up to my ears in running Quirinus Station."

Directing Shelby to the small mess near the rear of the ship Oryn observed her behaviors more closely. On the table inside the room rested several PADDs, a half full glass of brandy, and a recently opened bottle of the vulcan variety of the beverage. "Excuse the mess, I'm looking over potential candidates for some of the open positions. Would you like a drink?"

Daelen gave a nod, "Please, s customary to drink with new friends." and she was sure that after their initial conversation that proving that she could trust him might be helpful. As he prepared the drinks, she studied his stately features; probably stemming from a good bloodline in the Empire.    

Oryn smiled as he retrieved a second glass from the replicator and began to fill the crystal with the amber liquid. He placed the goblet in her hand, allowing for brief skin contact. "It's a vulcan brandy that our people managed to get their hands on before the loss of Vulcan. After they managed to invent replicators, the last few bottles were added to the database."

"To new a empire and ancient honor," Oryn said and lifted his glass. He offered another smile before sipping. "Hopefully, we can get it right this time. Maybe like S'Task intended for it to be."

"To honor." Giving a lift to her glass, Shelby experimentally took a drink, finding the smooth taste chased by a bitter tang. It was familiar, in as much as the woman knew of Earth brandy but there was something else flavoring it additionally; enhancing it even more. "Very good, thank you Commander."

Keeping formality in place as her attentions shifted to the padds, then back to Oryn. "Anyone I know?" She said in an attempt to divert attention from the silence which fell between them.  

"I'm not sure. I am going over the records of anyone who might be a benefit the station." He answered and took another sip of his drink. "I need people that will get the job done and also know how to follow orders. I'm focusing on people without preconceived notions of what it means to be romulan. There's going to be a lot of expectations and compromising. I'm still trying decide who I want to stand beside me during the hard questions."  

"Understandable." She said while enjoying the brandy.  

"I'm glad you accepted the invitation for the tour, but why are you here?" He looked at her over the rim of his glass before setting it down. "Is this business or pleasure? More to the point, how much business or pleasure did you come for?"