TREKS IN SCI-FI FORUM

"Captains Log"

"It's been three weeks since my abduction into the mirror universe. The Arabella took heavy damage from the battle with the Borg and is currently docked at Starbase 416 for repairs. They tell me we could be here for a few months. I gave the crew a much-needed shore leave.  We are near the Ogus system and I heard Ogus II is completely covered in forests. I might try and convince Nic to visit them with me.

Dr. Peterson has worked his magic along with the staff at Starbase 416. They managed to save 90% of the crew that had been assimilated. But sadly we still lost 57 crewmen. I placed commendations for bravery in their Starfleet records.

I still haven't heard from my first officer. All I can do is wait and hope she returns to us quickly and safely.

I have temporally promoted Lieutenant Commander Aeric James as my first officer and Lieutenant Daniel Tucker to third in command. Both men will serve me well in these positions.

It is almost 0500 and I am due in The Afterburner for a promotion ceremony. "

"Computer End Log"

Aeric softly kissed the foreheads of M'Rynn and Elizabeth, who both lay asleep in the bedroom that they shared in his quarters. The children rested peacefully as a result of the picnic adventure that the Lieutenant had taken the kids on the day before. Aeric had hardly made it through the beginning of their bedtime story before both had drifted off.

Rory watched her father from her position leaning in the doorway. It was hard to believe that he was the same man barely a month ago. A weight had been lifted from his shoulders right before Sevryll and Aria left with Sairyn and she could not help but notice it.

"What time is it?," Aeric asked in quiet words that hardly registered over a whisper.

"It's 0413." Rory replied with a smile. "You've been watching them all night. Just as you did the night before."

Aeric nodded. It wasn't the first time he missed sleeping while caring for the girls. He didn't even bother to explain his reasoning to his holographic daughter again. He needed little sleep and he wanted to be there if either girl woke in the night. For a three year old, Elizabeth had sleeping habits as bad as her adopted father and M'Rynn had too many reason for nightmares to haunt her dreams. Her mother and her brother were not on the ship and being a twin, it was rare for her to ever be without one of them.

"How are you holding up father?" Rory asked with genuine concern as they exited the room.

"My daughters are in another universe with their mother searching for N'Vall and we don't know when they are coming back. M'Rynn misses them." Aeric replied in what vaguely passed as an even tone.

"You miss them as well."

"Beyond words, but we have other things to deal with." Aeric said with a sad smile.

"I already have a full day planned out for the girls since you have the promotion ceremony and your shift taking up most of yours." Rory said in an attempt to steer the conversation to a better subject. Both father and daughter knew where the conversation would head if it stayed on it's previous heading. Rory wanted him to speak with the councilor and he somehow could never find the time.

"Thank you Rory, I know how babysitting duty has been taking up a lot of your time. In a few days, Dennis will have his mobility back and then we can split the time a little more."

"By splitting the time, you mean giving me a larger break while your time with the girls stays roughly every second that you aren't on duty." Rory grinned. She knew that Aeric would not allow himself to worry or be upset when he was with the girls. It wasn't the help that she wanted him to get, but it was helping.

"I need to change and get to the ceremony," he answered. There was really no need to state the obvious. Aeric needed the girls as much as they needed him in the last few weeks.

"After your shift ends, you should have time to see Councilor Margon, I've even made you an appointment. Dennis and I will be taking the children on a holo-adventure and then we're going to come back and make some sort of messy and chocolate intense snack with them. You won't need to rush home."

Aeric forced a smile. "Thanks for looking out for me."

"Someone needs to father since you are dead set on ignoring how you feel about them leaving."

Aeric had nothing left to add to the conversation and simply nodded. He headed in the direction of his room for a quick shower and a change of uniform. 

Joseph looked in the mirror. His hair kept falling into his vision and no matter how many times he drew his hand over the strands it kept falling down. Getting slightly irritated by the fact that he had been doing this action for twenty minutes he decided to use some gel. Putting a small amount into his palm he rubbed it in and then slicked it onto his fringe and drew his fingers back through his hair. He looked at himself for a moment and smiled.

"That's better"

Turning round he bent down and picked up his book and put it on the table in front of the mirror, looking back up at his image he smiled again but his eyes slowly drew up to see his hair gradually drop down again into his vision.

"Oh for..... fine"

Shaking his head he let it fall into a natural state. Strangely this worked and it parted slightly to the right and hung well.

"Well it will have to do"

Joseph pulled his tunic down and he made sure his uniform looked a lot more presentable than his hair. Looking around his room Joseph felt content and happy. He felt at home aboard this ship and he felt he had a good family bond with his colleagues.

"Well, time to get going"

Before he left he picked up his cricket bat and did a few practise strokes, he aimed to beat K'Tan when they left the ship. Swinging his bat he imagined cracking a brilliant shot over the Oval and raising his bat to the audience applause.

"Got to love the game"

Placing his bat on his chair he smiled again and left his quarters for the ceremony.

Dr. Peterson sat in his office, for a few minutes, it was the first time he had had to sit down since the last mission. This mission had taken its toll on him physically and it showed as a few white hairs were visible around his sideburns and the bags under his eyes from lack of sleep were quite visible.

He had a haggard look that seemed to foster his inner strength as well as the respect of his staff and fellow crewmates. After the deborgification at Starbase 413, it was evident there were few doctors who were more dedicated to their patients.

He was truly exhausted. He hated to lose crew members and he took it personally. It was the one part of the job he hated and he never got use to it. "Perhaps," he thought to himself, "This dedication to my patients and great respect for all life and the preservation of it, is what has made me a capable physician, but the loss of 57 crew members truly bothered him.

He looked up from his desk in time to see Myella walk in with a smile on her face " Hon it is almost time to go." " Thanks dear he replied", as he tugged on his Dress uniform and pulled it down.

"You look rather dashing in your dress blues dear" , Myella Replied, as she straightened his purple heart.

"You don't look so bad yourself, my dear" Dr. Peterson replied as he took her arm in his and they headed out of sickbay to the Afterburner for the Promotion Ceremony.

Joint Post between Jen and Moyer777

She drew her arms over her chest in a subconscious display of social withdrawal. In response, the Bolian seated across from her presented the Trill with a friendly smile. He and the good doctor had been meeting everyday for three weeks. She had come a long way, but Ryla was far from the effervescent woman that he knew prior to the Borg attack. Despite her posture, she attempted to return his smile.

The counselor drew a breath to speak, but his patient surprised him by beginning their dialog. Her tone was gentle but tired, "you're going to ask me how I feel today and I'm going inform you that I don't feel anything. You'll play a soothing musical number in an attempt to relax me, which will help a little. You'll activate the therapeutic holoprogram and then I'll be confronted with..." her voice trailed off as she thought of the last time she had physically been in the Afterburner. The Trill had entered the Arabella's lounge many times in her nightmares and in Margon's holo-sessions, but she hadn't actually stepped foot in that place since the day she died.  Ryla's light brown eyes were directed at the floor a moment, as she mustered the courage to admit failure and suggest that they end the pointless session.

She opened her arms and moved them to her sides to grip the seat of her chair, " I appreciate your diligence, Margon. You're a good man and a talented counselor, but this isn't working.  I just have to accept the fact that I'm never going to be Ryla Drett again. That part of me did not come back...it's still dead." The word 'dead' rolled from her lips impassively.  "And this..." she waved her hands about her, "this is all a futile attempt to resurrect it."

He paused a moment as he carefully considered a response. "Perhaps," the counselor said in a comforting tone, "we're going about this the wrong way.  May I suggest we plan a memorial for Drett, instead?"

Ryla moved her gaze from the carpeted floor to meet Margon's eyes— a quizzical look washed over her face.

"There comes a point when you have to stop living in the past.  I know that joined Trills aren't used to that, but you are right...  Drett is dead. Perhaps we need to bury that individual and get on with Ryla."

The petite woman regarded Margon in stunned silence. She wasn't sure whether he was being sarcastic or serious...no...he wasn't joking. She had never considered a memorial. Her people did not survive their symbiont's. Memorials were more common among deceased hosts.

Would a funeral solve her problem? She felt cold. Did that missing spark belong to Drett or to Ryla?  Who is Ryla?  She had convinced herself that the bold, sparkling portion of their joined persona had belonged to Drett—but that wasn't true.  When the two were united, they each brought something unique to the table. She had added the vibrant, charismatic traits to the rich tapestry of Drett's history, and the symbiont had given her the wisdom that she would have otherwise lacked. She shook her head slowly. The counselor was right, if she was going to get on with her life, she would have to do this.

Margon placed his hand on Ryla's shoulder.  "You're a courageous woman. I know you can do it," he said reassuringly.  "And if you need my help in putting a memorial together, you know where to find me.  In the mean time,  consider adjusting to your new life by making physical changes. Maybe you could try a new hair style, or rearranged your quarters..."

She interrupted him, " or change my name?"

He frowned slightly and considered the question a moment, then nodded slowly. "If you think that will help you to move on, but would it not honor the symbiont if you kept it? It's something to think about. Maybe you should ask your friends. How long has it been since you've spoken to them? Spring asks about you every time we've crossed paths."

"I couldn't face Mackie. She's too happy."

Margon chuckled, "I think being around chirpy people is exactly what you need. Maybe she could accompany you to the lounge. It might be good to take a Fertillian with you when you go. We're celebrating Dunn and D'Callan's promotions in the Afterburner this evening...maybe you should attend....doctor's orders."


"I need to think about it all," she was tearing up now, "especially the memorial. Finality can be so... well... final." She smiled weakly as she stood up.  "If it's okay, I think I'm going to go home now."

"Of course" replied Margon, "I know this isn't traditional, but..."  The counselor bent down and lightly embraced the petite Trill with a friendly hug.

Ryla didn't know how to react.  On one hand she wanted to fall into his arms sobbing—she needed a father at that moment.  On the other hand, she wanted to push him away for invading her personal space.  So many emotions were competing for dominance within her.

Ryla decided to compromise and patted Margon on the back. "Thank you," she whispered then turned and quickly made her way to the door.

Margon followed her to the exit and watched her stride down the corridor to the lift.  He knew it wasn't going to be an easy task, but he was certain that Ryla's tenacity would see her through.

Lester sat crossed legged on the floor of his quarters, arms outstretched in front of him.

He had just completed a double shift in engineering and was feeling the worse for it. Attempting to meditate, Lester found his mind wandering to thoughts concerning his new assignment and became too distracted to perform the practice.

Getting up, he made his way to the seat at his desk, sighing to himself.

"Computer, new personal log entry."

The computer chirped in acknowledgement.

"Begin recording."

"Personal log, Ensign Lester Garriss."

"It has been two weeks now since my transfer to the Arabella and the repairs in engineering are progressing satisfactorily.
I was hoping to meditate for a while before catching up on some sleep but I have been informed that my presence is required at a promotion ceremony in two hours. No, strictly that is not correct. It was 'suggested' that I attend by a superior so that I can familiarize myself with the crew. In truth I am not looking forward to the experience and the thought of 'mingling' is quite disconcerting. Nevertheless it is the correct thing to do in this case.

Perhaps I will attempt to meditate on my return."

"End recording and save."

Ensign Christopher Dunn sat on the edge of his bed. The constricting collar of his dress uniform made it hard to breathe while sitting down. He looked around at his small cabin. A picture of his father and step mother sat on his dresser while a picture of his mother stood by his bed. They were back on Earth, his father still living in the same town that Christopher had been raised in, his mother had long moved away to a sunnier climate. Christopher was so like her in many ways; athletic, driven, independent. They were the qualities that had helped him most during his time at Starfleet Academy.....and the past months on the Arabella.

He glanced down at his hand which shook slightly recalled the past mission. He wondered if it would eventually go away...or perhaps it should not. Perhaps it would serve as a reminder as to who precious life is and how he would fight to defend the lives of those he loved. Those at home on Earth and those of his crewmates.
He stood up and looked at himself in the mirror. Mom would be proud.

Leaning against the blank wall next to the sickbay door Reese proceeded to shuffle his hands in a tense manner. He could seem to hold still. He watched as the repair crews hurried down the halls to do their jobs. Reese had been feeling a little bored since docking. There really wasn't much for a science officer to do in the current situation. He couldn't concentrate on anything anyway. No matter what he tried to do, wether it be sword play, cards, holodeck, he could stop thinking about her.

"Rosemarie Myers," he whispered to himself. She was the reason he stood there outside sickbay. He didn't want to go in. He felt like if he did he'd come off too impulsive, but he still wanted her to know he cared.

The sickbay doors opened. Reese jumped to alertness as Rose stumbled out with a shiny metal cane in her hand and the left leg of her uniform cut off several inches above the knee.

"Glad to see you up on your feet, again." Reese said looking at her bare leg, now freed from its Borg encasing. Bits and pieces still remained visible, but it was far more flesh now, then it was when she had entered sickbay nearly an hour ago.

She stopped walking and place her Borg hand on the cane to free her left hand.

"Hi, Reese" She replied swiping her hair from in front of her eye, with her free hand she tucked it behind her ear, "What are you doing here?"

"Oh, just came by to see how you're doing."

"Better now. It's still a little hard to walk. There's still implants running through it, but now I don't feel so lopsided, one leg no longer encased in Borg engineering. Doctor said it'll just need use, and time."

"Look's plenty better." Reese replied smiling in attempt to get a smile out of her lips. She lowered her head sorrowfully. Reese looked into her one eye as she stared intently at the floor, a blank expression on her face. "So, you planning on going to the Afterburner for the ceremony?"

"Huh," She looked up, "Yes, I intended on going."

"Great, I'll walk you there."

"First you can walk me to my quarters. I'd like to change into something that isn't so revealing."

Reese put his arm around her shoulder, taking on her weight, and they proceeded down the corridor.

The buzzing of the alarm clock yanked K'Tan awake. He quickly sat up; his head spinning slightly as he glanced around the room.  Taking in the pastel tapestries and subdued paintings decorating the walls, and the floral arrangement dominating the nearby workstation, he felt a momentary sense of disorientation.  Swinging his legs out of bed, he accidentally kicked over a bottle resting on the floor; the sharp, citric smell of vodka assaulted his nostrils as the bottle spun away. 

K'Tan rested his throbbing head in his hands, trying desperately to still the spinning of the room.

Where am I, and how much did I drink?

A soft, warm hand landed on his naked thigh, simultaneously kicking his heartbeat into high gear and banishing the cobwebs clouding his memory.

"Leaving so soon?" a sultry voice purred.

K'Tan glanced back at the smiling face of Lt. Applegate. She grasped his arm, and playfully tugged him back towards the bed. 

The Chief Tactical Officer stood and grabbed his rumpled uniform from a nearby chair. 

"I'm sorry; I have to prepare for the awards ceremony," he replied.  "Two worthy crewmen are being promoted today; it would be dishonorable for me to miss the event."

After pulling on his pants and uniform tunic, K'Tan sat back down to fasten his shoes.  He turned to offer his companion a sheepish grin.  "If you like, I guess you could join me there... Perhaps we could get some dinner afterwards?"

Applegate answered with a chuckle of disdain, and settled back into the bed.  "No thanks; I'm not a big fan of ceremonies.  Bore-ing."  She yawned, and snuggled into the covers.  "And me and some friends are playing dom-jot after our shift, so I'll have to take a rain-check on dinner."

"Perhaps tomorrow then?" K'Tan asked.

She pulled the covers down, exposing only her eyes.  "I don't know.  We'll see." 

K'Tan silently rolled his eyes, then started to get up.

Applegate sat up, and placed a restraining hand on K'Tan's shoulder.  "Look, last night was fun and all, but that's all that it was: Fun." 

She leaned her head on his shoulder, and offered a consoling smile.  "I know that you think of yourself as a Klingon, but you don't have to take the name so litterally, guy.  Don't get all 'Klingy' on me.  I'm not looking for a relationship."

Desperately trying to stifle a sigh of relief, K'Tan stood and headed to the door.  "Well... I guess I'll see you around, then." 

As the door whispered shut behind him, K'Tan walked briskly towards his quarters.  A nagging sense of guilt nibbled relentlessly at his conscience, and as they had for the past three weeks, his thoughts drifted to the resurrected Dr. Drett. 

As always, those thoughts were flavored by a sense of shame. 

Shame for his inability to deal with the doctor's death and resurrection. 

Each of his visits with the Trill since her rebirth had felt forced and awkward. His clumsy attempts at consoling her had felt inadequate, to say the least. K'Tan found himself at a loss on how to approach her.  Was she the same person he had felt drawn to before the death of her symbiont? 

The door to his quarters hushed open at his approach, and he quickly ducked inside. 

Just enough time for a shower and a change of clothes, he thought.   

Somehow though, he doubted that there was a shower strong enough to wash away his sense of shame.

The door slid open and Susan removed the surgical scanners and she placed them back in their rightfull place. She smiled and then asked the computer for the time for the fifth time, realising that she still had a little longer to wait until the ceremony started she took the scanners back out and recleaned them.

"G'Day Susan"

Susan spun round with a little jump and looked at the figure in the doorway.

"I would have knocked but these doors are just a tadge too quick"

Joseph D'Callan cocked his head to one side, his hair flopped into his vision and this made Susan laugh.

"You still cant get that fringe right can you"

She walked over to D'Callan and gently stroked the wayward strands back over his forehead and looked into his eyes. They gazed at each other for a few seconds before Joseph broke the connection.

"Not sure about this outfit"

Susan ran her hand down his tunic and smiled at him.

"Nothing wrong with a dress uniform Joe, it makes you look a bit less like a bush tucker man"

"Best watch those words young Sheila or you'll be having Witchetty Grubs for the after ceremony meal"

He winked at her and offered his hand towards the open glass door. Susan nodded curtly and passed him with a return wink.

Joint post by Institches and Jen

Ryla stared in wistful contemplation at the woman in the mirror. She stared back with the same pensive look glinting in her eyes and sighed as she smoothed the jacket of her dress uniform. The Trill decided to attend the promotion ceremony in the Afterburner, despite her fear of the lounge and what happened there only a few weeks prior. Luckily, Mackie would be going with her. The Fertillian's ability to chemically effect the mood of others would be helpful...that, and Ryla had missed her friend. 





Mackie glanced at the mirror and grimaced. The light from the chronometer was glaring off her bald pate. She had gotten used to the blue hair from the previous mission, but when the ears and indigo skin went, the cotton-candy hair looked out-of place. So back to usual. She read the chronometer and realized she was running late. Better hurry. She slapped on the blond wig and adjusted it as she scooted out the door.

She arrived at Ryla's quarters right on time, living up to her reputation for promptness, if not tidiness. As soon as Ryla opened the door, she reached out and straightened Mackie's hair, arranging it to cover the missing ears that were a native Fertillian trait, but that Mackie seemed so self-conscious about.

Ryla offered a genuine smile to the Fertillian, "You did that on purpose, didn't you?"

Mackie attempted to return her smile, but her expression wobbled and a tear rolled down her cheek. A faint smell of Vulcan redspice and icesalt escaped from her. She touched the place on Ryla's abdomen that was now empty. "It's so quiet."

Ryla covered her hand and the women shared a look of loss, then Ryla's eyebrows drew down. "You know, you're the only one, including me, who saw us as separate, who communicated to each of us. Do you think you could do that with children in the womb?"

"I... yes, after a certain point in development. I think so." She paused and rubbed her gill slits. There was no adult-infant interaction on her planet, but she had been around gestating females of many species since she first arrived on Earth. "No, I'm sure I can. So what?"

Ryla's mind started clicking as she threw herself into her work. "That's my specialty, Mackie. Obstetrics. If you can 'talk' to the baby, we'd know so much more than even holo-imaging can give us."

Mackie was flabbergasted, a smell of over-ripe thorn-flower fruit surrounding her now. "Are you saying I can help you in sick-bay?"

"Yes." Ryla tried to smile again, but it didn't come as easily as it had when she first saw Ensign Farmer in her lopsided wig. She had been avoiding the Fertillian for weeks, believing that her friend's cheerfulness would be too much to endure. Ryla had no idea that Mackie was so grief-stricken. The loss of Drett had been the Trill's private sorrow and she had selfishly blocked everyone she knew from sharing it with her. Ryla wasn't use to seeing the young ensign so upset...she wanted to hug Mackie, but instead the physician shifted into 'professional mode' and opted to recruit the botanist for the Obstetrics department. She felt ashamed. Why couldn't she just say what was on her mind. She bit her bottom lip and met Mackie's eyes, "I'm sorry I..." A couple rounded the corner in the corridor and noticed the formerly deceased Trill. They whispered something as they approached. Ryla looked away as they passed her open doorway.

Mackie drew a breath and scented the eloquent conflicting emotions in Ryla. Her anger at being alive and alone, her grief for the loss of her other half, her shame for... so many things. It was a bitter scent, Vulcan incense mixed with Earth almonds. She nodded at her friend and realized that she was happy just to be in her presence again. She blew out an ameliorating scent of molasses. "We need to go."

A pleasant warmth washed over Ryla and she knew instantly what Mackie had done. "Thank you," she said as they moved down the corridor.






The Trill experienced an involuntary shiver as they approached the double doors of the lounge. Ryla paused just outside and gazed up at the holographic sign that bore the blazing letters of "The Afterburner".  Memories and images burned through her mind like a wildfire before being extinguished by the light apple scent of New Dawn roses. She exhaled slowly, expelling the air she had been holding hostage. "...I'm okay now. I can do this..." She stepped forward and the doors obediently parted.

The faint purring sound drifted through the air as the crackling fire added warmth to the room.  The large comfortable couch was surrounded with brown root beer bottles and tissues strewn about.  The  blue man was wrapped in soft blanket starring at the fire. 

One of his eyes welled up with tears and a small drop cascaded down his cheek.  His other eye was of course, artificial.  The Borg had stolen his sight on one side.  Even though technology made his new eye even better than that last, it wasn't the same.  It was a constant reminder of the violent actions of the cybernetic race.  He had counseled many through hard times before, but all he could describe assimilation as was "rape"  plain and simple.  It was horrifying to say the least.  Your very soul and essence being stolen and conformed to the collective was something no one should ever experience.

The counselor sat petting Mr. Mouse.  It brought him much comfort.  Such a simple creature.  You feed it, give it some water and scratch it's ears and you have a friend for life, well at least on their terms.  And this creature didn't have to be counseled.  Some catnip and an occasional mouse toy did the trick with his pet. 

Margon's work load had increased so much in the last few weeks that he was simply trying to catch his breath.  He wiped the tear from his eye.

"Who counsels the counselor?"  he thought. 

This is what he had been trained for, but admittedly the pressure was on.  Starfleet had considered sending another counselor to the ship for relief, but at this point he hadn't seen anyone. 

He rubbed the cat's ears and started to stand up.  Mr. Mouse jumped off of his lap and pranced off to his corner to get something to eat.  Margon picked up some of the bottles and placed them in the reclimator.  "Computer, cancel fireplace, open closet."  His holoquarters complied and the fireplace disappeared. The panel opened revealing the counselors clothes hung neatly in the closet.   "Ok, time for my dress uniform, be glad you don't wear clothes my feline friend."  Mr. Mouse looked up at him and squinted.

Margon would see his crew mates tonight, and many of them were now his clients.  Of course, he would encourage them and smile, but a profound sadness possessed the counselor.  It would be good for him to get out to the afterburner.  It always helped him to be at a celebration.  He was hoping to see J'dan, the host of the Afterburner, tonight and catch up on what was going on with him.  Margon had been so busy they hadn't talked lately.

Ryla slowly scanned the room— the atmosphere within the lounge was lively and warm. Several officers, sporting their dress whites, were milling about, sipping drinks and sampling colorful appetizers.  Her eyes passed over each individual, before coming to rest on the proprietor of the Afterburner. J'Dan was laughing at the joke that Cyra Frederick told a captivated group of men. "Now Fred...you can't be delivering that brand of punch line in my bar.  I have standards to uphold," he said half-heartedly to the beautiful Orion singer.

Ryla's mind conjured the dim memory of J'Dan Marley. A ghost pain stabbed at her midsection, causing her to wince... The Bajoran had been the one to carry her from the lounge after Talon Bowers seared a hole through her.

Eventually, J'Dan felt her eyes on him and turned his gaze in her direction. His bright smile quickly fell. It seemed like a decade passed before it reappeared. He excused himself from the group and made his way to the entrance, to welcome the two women standing just inside the doorway.

Ryla felt the warmth of several Merlots numb her raw nerves—Mackie was working over time. The smile she mustered for J'Dan pushed dimples into flushed cheeks. 

"Hello J'Dan...long time no see." Ryla said with a little more volume than she intended.

Clothed in his dress uniform, Aeric James made his way into the lounge with a brilliant smile on his face. With his hormones no longer being regulated by his systems, his emotions had returned to the fore. The lust for life and adventure had quickly returned to him and the joys in these moments were just as powerful as the emotional chaos that troubled his thoughts. Aeric glanced around the room at the familiar faces gathered there.

The acting XO paused when his eyes fell on Ryla. Part of him new the pain of losing someone so close to you, but he couldn't find the words to offer comfort. At some point in the future he would need to speak to her, but now was most assuredly not that time.

Joint post by moyer777 and Jen

"Ms Drett, er um Ryla, hello!" J'Dan said nervously.  He wasn't sure how to address her now.  For a moment it was awkward until he moved closer.  "I am grateful to see you," he quietly said, visibly in her comfort zone. "How are you?"

Ryla bit her lip looked him in the eye.  "I'm surviving J'Dan, as good as could be expected.  Thank you for asking."

He tried to make conversation, but it was failing quickly.  What he really wanted to say was that he was sorry for her loss, but he had never looked at a resurrected person before.  He finally choked it out..
"Ryla, I'm so sorry for your...

She interrupted, "No need Mr. J'Dan- thank you, but it is a new day.  It is I that should thank you for your bravery and help."

J'Dan smiled and touched her arm.  "Can I get you anything Ryla?"

She subconsciously pulled it away and tried to smile, "a vinti Raktijino...my friend here is making me feel tipsy, and I need to sober up." She had fallen back on humor in order to make him comfortable. "I'm not sure it will help, but I'm willing to give it a shot."

Joseph and  Susan walked into the Afterburner, looking a bit sheepish Joesph let Susan walk in and he followed allowing people to see her first. Several of the crew turned and waved at both of them, Joseph smiled and Susan waved manically suddenly seeing Ryla talking to J'dan and Mackie, Susan headed over to them. Joseph shrugged and headed to the bar looking for K'tan who still owed him several beers. Looking down at his white dress uniform he laughed to himself and nodded to the second barman.

"Usual please mate."

Turning round he lent on the bar and looked at all the people chatting and laughing. One of the crew walked past and smiled at him, Joseph nodded and this made him feel quite content.

Nathan stood in front of his mirror straightening his jacket for the millionth time. It's been a while since he has worn his dress uniform and it seems he's gained a little weight.  The door chimed. "Come in" he said, as he pulled on the jacket one more time.

Nicholas Took entered looking very dapper in his dress uniform. He walked over to Nathan, who was still fidgeting with his jacket and gave him a peak on the cheek. "Stop fiddling with your jacket, you look great", he said with a smile. Quinn stopped and returned the smile.  He walked over to his table and picked up a padd and started to read over his speech. Nic grabbed it out of his hand and laid it back down. "Your speech is fine, you look wonderful, now lets get going."  Nathan laughed and took a deep breath. "After you Mr. Took".  Nic walked out the front door while Quinn looked one more time into the mirror before hearing Nic yell from outside the room. "Leave it!!". Nathan chuckled to himself, picked up the padd and left his quarters.

Moments later Quinn and Took entered The Afterburner. The room was beginning to fill up but several senior officer were still not there so he and Nic walked over to the bar to grab a quick drink.

K'arath was no officially running down the corridor. He was still in his cycling gear, his clip shoes and helmet in his hand as he ran barefoot towards his quarters. He had lost track of time while riding a holodeck simulation of the Alp D'Huez climb from the Tour de France and was now late getting ready for the ceremony in the Afterburner. He figured 5 min to undress and shower, another 10 min to jam himself into the dress uniform, 2 min to negotiate the way to bar. He would just make it......Assuming he could find his dress uniform.

David and Rose entered the Afterburner. David looked across the heads of the people till his eyes spotted the hairy headed fur ball of a man. They walked round the crowd to the far wall where he stood. Fissual saw them coming and pulled out a chair for Rose to sit down.

"Anything happen yet?" Reese asked.

"Just population of the room." Fissual replied.

"Good." Reese looked around at all the people. Then back at Fissual. He seemed tense. He'd been like this the past few weeks, ever since the attack. Reese returned his gaze to the crowd, but not without a quick glance in Rose's direction.

"And then the woman says, 'No sir, but do you mind if I wait around here until someone does?'" It was her dirtiest joke yet, and Cyra was rewarded with the uproarious laughter of her companions.

Cyra sipped her drink and smiled as the compliments kept coming. She was the type of performer who didn't always need to be on stage to grab the attention of an audience. As long as there was a group of a decent size and they were in her general vicinity, they were guaranteed a show. And if the audience was mostly male—which it usually was—they were treated to a no bars held comedy routine. Men always found charm in her mix of natural flirtatiousness and lack of censorship, and she found joy in the attention she gained from it.

As her group commented on her delivery and went on to discuss other raunchy jokes, her eye caught sight of the two women J'Dan had begun to converse with. She recognized the short-haired blonde immediately from the day of the Borg attack.  She thought back on that moment as if it were a dream, a terrible nightmare that was too real for her liking. Cyra had hidden herself away from the battle, forgetting every fighting tactic she had learned from her father and her own experience in school brawls. She could only watch the maddening blur of the Borg assimilating and killing innocent lives, Starfleet officers firing their weapons, and J'Dan and his friends trying to protect the two small children, M'rynn and N'vall.

The moment the Trill woman had been shot, something within Cyra awakened her dormant instinct and she took charge. She picked up the firearm J'Dan had left behind and took cover for him as he carried his wounded friend out. It didn't matter if the Borg had adapted to it or not—any weapon was better than no weapon at all. She remembered the vulcanoid child the Trill tried to rescue from the shadows, and she immediately crossed over to her hiding spot. Though the boy was no where to be seen, but she found his sister and bent down to the toddler's level, holding out her arms for her.

"It's alright," she said. "I'm going to get you out of here." She picked the child up, and with one arm carrying the child and the other with the sidearm in tow, they made their out the lounge. Cyra had relied on the little one to alert her to any danger of a surprise attack from one of the many drones, but was relieved to have made it passed the doors of the Afterburner. However, the relief was short lived when M'rynn called out a name at the sight of a lifeless body. Sure enough, there was the Trill woman on the floor of the passageway.

The little girl continued to cry out, but Cyra kept moving. With each step she made, the wails of the toddler grew louder and louder. She wanted to stop to soothe the child, to explain what was happening. She wanted to turn back so that perhaps M'rynn might be able to say goodbye to her protector. But she couldn't shake the memory of centuries old images that depicted children weeping as they watched the people around them die in the name of warfare, forever suspended in time with nothing but despair. Tears stung Cyra's eyes as M'rynn clung to her and buried her tear-stained face into her shoulder, but they kept moving...

She was pulled away from the memory by the sound of disgruntled groans, a response to man had attempted a joke and failed miserably. She joined in briefly, but then excused herself.

"Sorry, boys," she said. "But I think I require a little intermission right now, if only for the sake of getting another drink." Despite offers to wait while one or the other fetched a drink for her, she moved away from her party and stepped closer to survey the atmosphere between J'Dan, the Fertillian, and the resurrected Trill.

K'Tan paused outside of the Afterburner to give his dress-jacket a final tug, then brushed a few stray bits of imaginary lint from his pants leg. Satisfied that his pristine-white formal gear was in order, he strode confidently into the ship's lounge,

...And stopped dead in his tracks.

There, standing across the room, was Ryla.  

K'Tan was overcome by a storm of conflicting emotions.  First, there was guilt over his tryst with Lt. Applegate, which made him want to turn and flee the lounge.  

But Ryla said she wanted to take things slow; to just be friends for now, he tried to rationalize.  

In contrast to his shameful desire to run away, he also felt a protective urge to approach the doctor and see how she was doing; to embrace her and assure her that everything was going to be alright.   But in all honesty, he didn't know for a fact that things were going to be alright.  And her standoffish response to previous such encounters left him feeling that the last thing she wanted was a reminder of her injury.  

Injury?  That didn't come close to describing it.  As little as he knew about joined Trills, K'Tan still understood that they were basically two beings melded into one.  The loss of her symbiont wasn't a mere injury; a part of the doctor had died that day.  

K'Tan doubted that she would share a Klingon's perspective on death.  The phrase "A good day to die" wouldn't cut it in this situation.  

From across the room, Ryla glanced at K'Tan; as their eyes met he knew that his fantasy of running away was no longer an option.  

As if it were a blessing from Kahless, the appearance of his good friend D'Callan offered K'Tan a temporary reprieve from his uncomfortable position.  He gave Ryla a brief smile and a quick nod, then turned to join D'Callan at the bar.

Before Ryla could side-step the unwanted attention, Susan Caine caught her in an emotional embrace. Ryla gave Mackie a smirk over the nurse's shoulder then smiled at Susan as she finally pulled back to look at the Trill. "I'm so glad to see you, Ryla...how are you feeling? I didn't think you would come."

"I'm...fine. " She smiled for the woman who discovered her alive, in the morgue.  Nurse Cain had seen to Ryla's needs for few days, after her return from the dead. Soon the Trill was well enough to reclaim her old quarters and she hadn't seen Cain or any one else from sickbay since that time. It had been a while since they last spoke, but she hadn't forgotten Susan's kindness.

"Thank you," she uttered quietly.

The taller woman nodded and smiled in understanding, "anything for a friend."

Ryla's gaze followed the captain as he approached the bar to order a drink, but her eye stopped on the officer standing just beyond him.  Her hand subconsciously moved to her coat pocket where the Terossick talisman rested. The officer had given the healing charm to her a week prior, and it was then that he expressed his feelings for her.  Ryla had been fond of K'Tan...before. But now she wasn't sure who she was, or what she felt for anyone... let alone a man she knew so little about. She suggested they try being friends first. At the time, it seemed like an appropriate response. Now she wondered if instead of beginning a friendship, she had actually destroyed an opportunity. Well...it wouldn't be the first time.  Part of her hoped he would say hello, but in that instant she recognized the dread reflected in his expression and was certain that he wouldn't. K'Tan gave her a half-hearted smile and a curt nod before bellying up to the bar with Joseph D'Callan. She slowly turned her eyes back to Susan as the nurse continued her story about a pregnant Vulcan who looked just like Commander Sevryll.

Margon rode the turbo lift silently. 

"Here we go" he muttered as the doors opened.  He stepped out and walked towards the entrance of the Afterburner.  He paused briefly as he adjusted his dress uniform.  Then the blue man took a deep breath, put a smile on his face and walked into the room. 

There they were, many of his crew mates that were also his patients.  Overall it felt good to hear laughter.  It wasn't as awkward as he had anticipated.   

From across the room J'Dan greeted him. 

"Margon! Welcome my friend!"  he smiled, excused himself and quickly made his way to the counselors side.  "Root beer and vinegar?" he said with a smile. 

"Sure J'Dan", he mused.  "How are you my friend?" 

"As good as can be expected and a tad bit busy as you can see" he quipped back.

"It looks like most everyone is here, things should get underway soon, you want your drink here or at the bar?"

"The bar is fine, thanks" said Margon.  "Gentlemen, can I join you?" he said to Joseph and K'Tan. 

"Sure Mate" said D'Callan, "How is the counselor this fine evening?"

Lester waited for the turbolift doors to open. He found it curious that the journey was taking so long until he remembered that some of the lift shafts were still closed for repair. Coupled with the fact that most of the crew were headed to the Afterburner for the ceremony there was bound to be some congestion and delay.

He resisted the urge to display his impatience even though it was making him anxious. His fellow passenger was not as restrained. He could hear her sighing in protest and tapping her thigh. She smiled at him as if to apologise, Lester nodded in acknowledgement before quickly averting his gaze.

After what seemed like an eternity, the doors opened.  Making his way out of the turbolift he only paused for a second before heading for the doors to the Afterburner. It was at that moment that Lester realized that he had never visited the lounge before, much less in a dress uniform.

A lot of the crew were already there, many had congregated into groups and decibel levels in the room were high. As Lester walked in heads turned toward the doors to see who it was. Most did not know him and vice versa, but this didn't bother him, this is how he liked it. Making his way through the crowds to the bar, instead of joining a group he found a seat.

"What can I get you Ensign?" asked the civilian bartender.

"Earth lager, Southeast Asian variety please" Lester requested, with a tinge of embarrassment.

His refreshment arrived surprisingly quickly considering how busy it was. Taking a sip, Lester turned in his chair a little so that he could observe the crew and waited.

Doctor Peterson and Myella entered the Afterburner to the sound of laughter and noisy conversation. They quickly took a seat in the corner away from the crowds and sat quietly watching the crowds of people interact.

Casey's thoughts wandered as exhaustion had been his faithful companion for the last few weeks. It was clear to him that some rest was the next thing on his agenda. Myella looked over at her husband with concern, "Are you ok dear", Casey responded, " Yes I am fine, just tired ".

Casey looked down at his Purple Heart resting on his Chest, and still had many misgivings about receiving the medal, as it was tangled up In memories of loss, failure as well as self sacrifice that had left far reaching scars that he was still trying to deal with.

Myella quickly broke the silence and deep thought her husband seemed to be in by asking him if he wanted something to drink.  Casey responded, " Yes dear I will have a Mojito". The waiter took the drink orders then quickly disappeared.

All that was left to do was to wait for a few more senior officers to arrive and then the ceremony could begin.

Aeric's smile grew as he weaved through the throngs of people gathering. It was still quite early for many of the crew, but for others, it was nearing the end of a long duty shift. That was part of the magic of a starship. Day and night were constants dictated by the shift that you held, not the rising and setting of a star.

Adjusting the pristine white uniform tunic, he found himself drifting towards the bar. He didn't need his telepathic gifts to feel the emotions and life in the room. Those gathered around him were survivors. They had weathered much that the universe had thrown at them, but they continued on. Aeric couldn't help but be honored as his course drifted towards Ryla. He couldn't begin to understand the depths of what she might be feeling, but something pushed him in the direction. She was one of the few people on the ship that Aria had the pleasure of working hand in hand with.

Write a book on the impact that Drett made, he projected to her. He didn't know Trill society that well, but something inside Aeric's mind told him that an autobiography after death might be something new. It was also a story that he wanted to hear.

Leaning on the bar, Aeric ordered a glass of water and continued to observe the room.

Margon lifted the drink to his lips and he took a sip, he noticed K'Tan and D'Callan watching him.

"Gentlemen you seem to be expressing an intrest in my drinking technique"

K'Tan sniffed the air and D'Callan wondered around and sniffed the tumbler.

"Mate. I'd normally put this stuff on my potato wedges"

Margon looked at the two men and then burst out laughing. D'Callan and K'Tan nodded to each other. They knew that Margon had been extremely busy dealing with the well being of the crews minds but they also knew that Margon himself had been injured both physically and emotionally. The best thing they could do for their colleague was to make him laugh.

Dunn walked up the the closed doors of The Afterburner and stopped to take a deep breath. His formal uniform jacket made it feel like he was slowly asphyxiating to death but his hand was steady. The doors parted and he quickly slid into the room in an effort to avoid detection. He looked around the room and saw most of the senior staff and crew were here. He needed to make a move when he saw D'Callan at, of course, the bar with K'Tan and the Bolian councilor.
He smiled and walked towards them.

K'Tan looked up as Dunn approached the bar, and raised his glass in greeting.  "Mr. Dunn, good to see you. I was starting to think you'd be late." 

Dunn pulled out a seat and joined the group.  "Not on your life, sir."

Dunn cracked a smile.  "My mother always said that tardiness was a sign of a lazy mind, so I always try to be on time, if not early."

As he thought back on the times that Dunn had shown up in the nick of time to save the day, K'Tan couldn't help but nod in agreement.

K'Tan turned to Counselor Margon.  The Bolian was wearing a tired smile that didn't quite make it to his eyes.  With all the trauma inflicted on the Arabella and her crew during the recent encounter with the Borg, K'Tan understood the Counselor's pensiveness.  Even now, weeks later, the aftereffects of the ordeal were still being felt.

Since his transfer to the Tiberius, and then to the Arabella, K'Tan had come to know and respect the counselor, both as a mentor and a friend.  Margon's insight had been crucial in helping K'Tan face down some of his own personal demons, and he felt a strong desire to help brighten the Counselors spirits. 

He recalled one of the exercises the Counselor had given him years ago--

Sometimes, you have to reach out to people.  A kind word goes a long way.


K'Tan cleared his throat.  "I've been meaning to say thank you, Counselor Margon.  The help you provided me when I first arrived on the Tiberius has helped to turn my life around. Without your efforts, I doubt that I would have lasted much longer in Starfleet."

K'Tan gave the Bolian a firm, comradely punch in the shoulder, then raised his glass up before him in salute.  "Qapla'".

Margon tried to hold it together.  It really touched him that K'Tan would say that, and in front of others. 

He raised his root beer up and shouted "Qapla!"

His smile turned to seriousness as he said, "You worked through a lot of it yourself K'Tan  I only encouraged you to find yourself."

Margon rubbed his shoulder, K'Tan was being friendly, but his shoulder now hurt. 

"I just wanted you to know how much you have helped me Counselor." K'Tan said again.

Dunn and D'Callan laughed as the Bolian rubbed his shoulder. 

"We need to get you into the holodeck Gym." Dunn mused.

"Perhaps a friendly game of parises squares?" barked K'Tan.

"Name your time" Margon said in jest as he took the last swig of his rancid root beer.

It was good for the counselor to smile.  And it was genuine.

Ryla glanced up as her mind registered the inaudible suggestion, and noticed Lieutenant Commander James at the bar. She watched him nurse a drink as Mackie and Susan continued the conversation. As Assistant Chief Medical Officer, Ryla had familiarized herself with the medical files of the majority of the Arabella's crewmen, and knew Mr. James to be a telepath. "Write a book," the voice had said. She didn't appreciate the mental intrusion.  She focused on a single thought as she watched him down the rest of his drink.

I'm not a writer.

Joint post by Jen and Just X

Ryla excused herself from Mackie and Susan's discussion and moved to the open stool next to Aeric James. J'Dan handed her the cup of Raktijno. She took a sip and turned to the Nacine-El Aurian,  "I heard your voice, but you clearly were not close enough for that to have been an audible suggestion, " she remarked as she set her beverage on the bar.

"How are you, Lieutenant?" He asked.

"I could be better, but I guess that can be said for many of us these days," she replied.

Aeric offered a polite smile,  "It's not hard to see the grief that you are going through. I know the look from personal experience, but there might be a way to channel that. You should write a book about the life of Drett. A written testament to the life that has passed. Something that, I believe, no other host has ever been in the position to do. Remembering the past might give you perspective on your future. Personally, I would be very interested in knowing more about the officer that gave their life in the defense of this crew and ship."

Taking a sip of his water, Aeric gave the Trill his undivided attention. Loss came with being a member of Starfleet, but it did not have to be a meaningless loss. "Perhaps we can talk more on this after the ceremony and my meeting with Counselor Margon?"

Joint post by Startrekfanatic5 & Just X

Quinn and Took stood at the bar and watched as various crewmembers entered the Afterburner.  As 0500 arrived, Quinn stepped away from Took and proceeded to the podium that had been set up. He caught Lt. Commander's James eye, who nodded and joined. Nathan cleared his throat and the room fell silent. He placed the padd on the podium and looked around at all the happy faces smiling back at him. He took pause to return the smile and then began.

"First I want to thank you all for join us here today. I know that I have taken you away from your much-needed shore leave, so I will make this short and to the point. We are here today to honor two of our fellow officers. These two men represent the best of what Starfleet has to offer; they have gone above and beyond to perform their duties as Starfleet officers. Would Lieutenant Joseph D'Callan and Ensign Christopher Dunn please join us up at the podium?"

Once both men arrived at the podium, Quinn continued, "As Captain of this vessel it is my duty and privilege to reward those who excel in their duties, who put other's wellbeing before their own. "

James handed Quinn a small black box. Nathan opened the box to reveal a black pip. He removed it and attached it to D'Callan's collar next to the two solid gold pips. "Lieutenant Joseph D'Callan, I hereby promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Commander."

There was applause as D'Callan stepped back and Dunn approached. Quinn took the other box, which contained another black pip. He removed the pip. "Ensign Christopher Dunn, it is my honor to promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade."

Quinn pinned the black pip next to the single gold pip. Once again the crowd applauded. Quinn raised his hand and silence fell again as Nathan gestured to Lt. Commander James to take the podium.

Aeric nodded slightly as he stood before the gather crew. "It has been a personal honor to have served with and beside everyone aboard this vessel. We have had joys and pains on the short time aboard this ship, but we have survived. We have done more than survive, we have excelled all expectations."

Aeric took a slow breath before continuing. "We have had our share of losses and setbacks, but we did not allow ourselves to be defeated. I have watched with rapt attention as these two officers have consistently put the needs of this crew before their own. Congratulations to you both, it is an honor well deserved in a crew of well deserving individuals."

Quinn applauded with the rest as James finished his speech. "Thank you Mr. James, now please everyone enjoy the festivities."

The briefly silent room erupted in music and conversation as the festivities began in earnest.

Ryla watched as her fellow officers congratulated Dunn and D'Callan. Joseph had been the last patient she saw in sickbay before her death. He was badly injured during a successful attempt to rescue Dunn during an away mission. Doctors Drett and Myella Peterson were the only physicians aboard when Joseph's mangled body arrived, and neither had the experience necessary to perform the surgery. In an effort to save him, Ryla made the decision to activate the EMH so that the hologram could supervise the procedure. The Mark VI had nearly driven her mad, but he was highly skilled and because of him the Chief Of Security survived. She had endured the hologram's obnoxious antics for Joseph's sake, and made sure D'Callan was well aware of this fact when he awoke. He was a stubborn patient and Ryla joked that if he didn't stop giving her a hard time, she would activate the Emergency Medical Hologram to keep him company while she was off duty. She never made good on her threat... instead, she recruited Nurse Cain for the task. The Trill smiled slightly as she watched Susan hovering near him.

From her place at the bar, Ryla lifted her mug in salute to them both then finished the rest of her Raktijino. Her head swam with the friendly suggestions of her fellow crew mates:  change your appearance, rearrange your quarters, plan a memorial, write a book...  Right now all she wanted to do was hit something. She watched K'Tan mingling in the crowd and wondered if he hated her. Only one way to find out, replied her inner voice. Still feeling the confidence of Mackie's chemical influence—she stood, took a deep breath, and approached the Chief Tactical Officer. 

The small woman moved to his side when his conversation had reached a natural lull, "hello, Commander." Fearing that he would make some excuse to walk away, she didn't wait for a response.  "I have the innate desire to punch something. Trouble is...I don't know how. I realize there are a number of qualified individuals who are more than capable of instructing me in the martial arts, but I want to learn Mok'bara... and I'd like to learn it from you. Are you willing to teach a screwed up Trill how to kill something with her bare hands?" As soon as the question escaped her lips, her serious expression crumbled. A small smile lit her face and she chuckled at the absurdity of it all. "I'd like to make a new friend and maybe let off a little steam in the process...by hitting something...really hard. I hear you're good at that."

Joseph stood chatting with Dunn and by the look of his arm movements he was once again explaining the game of cricket. Susan watched him and a warm feeling grew in her stomach, She glanced over at Ryla and K'tan who was also in mid conversation. She was proud to be aboard this ship and she had her Admiral to thank for getting her the position aboard the Arabella.
Joseph slapped Dunn on the back.

"That's the spirit Leitenant J.G ha ha. You'll love the games. wear a helmet though"

Dunn looked up " A helmet?"

"Yeah mate... Oh and a box"

Joseph took a swig of his beer and looked at Dunn who's mouth had dropped.

"Whats a box?"

Joseph put his glass down and pretended to swing a bat.

"Protection mate, its like a cup"

Dunn looked at his glass "Cup?"

Joseph smiled.

"When a leather ball is coming at you at 145kmh and smacks you straight in the testicles you're gonna wish you had a box down your strides"

Slapping a worried Dunn on the back D'Callan began to walk away but gave him one last cheeky comment.

"Of course that's the speed of a human bowl. I don't know what the speed of a Klingon bowl's going to be"

Dunn's eyes widened and he turned but Joseph was out of ear shot and already standing back at the bar ordering another drink for himself and Susan.

Thinking about the power of a Klingons strength Dunn looked quickly at K'tan and then back at D'Callan who shot him a sly smile in acknowledgement of the friendly wind up. Dunn relaxed and laughed to himself before quickly knocking back his celebratory ale.

As D'Callan and Dunn continued to celebrate their much-deserved promotions, K'Tan found his attention fully captured by Ryla.  The doctor's face brightened as she graced him with a melodic chuckle, and as her lips perked into a small smile, K'Tan felt his heart quicken.

"So what do you say," Ryla asked.  "Feel up to taking on a student?"

K'Tan felt his face flush in a wave of giddiness as he struggled to come up with a response.  The doctor's warmth felt like a tonic to him, and he didn't want to risk loosing it through verbal clumsiness. 

Throwing caution to the wind, K'Tan returned the Doctor's smile with one of his own.  "I'd be honored to assist you in any way that I can." 

The warm giddiness filling his chest seemed like it was now making itself at home in his flushed face; K'Tan's smile felt pleasantly locked into a permanent grin.

"And by the way; I hope you don't mind me saying this, but you look exceptionally radiant this evening, Ryla," he added.

As the noise level in the Afterburner continued to steadily rise, K'Tan found himself quietly marveling at the courage of the petite Trill doctor, and at her determination to press forward despite the grievous harm done to her during the Borg conflict.

He also marveled at how this brief exchange had suddenly brightened the tone of his day. 

Only the fates knew what the future held in store for the two of them.  But as long as that future included her friendship, K'Tan felt certain that it would be a bright one. 

After Congratulating, both newly promoted officers, Doctor Peterson made the rounds and chatted briefly with all the senior officers, before stopping and asking Ryla how she was doing after her ordeal of loosing her symbiant. He smiled briefly and let her know that he was available as was counsellor Margon if she needed to talk.

Doctor Peterson disliked these formal affairs and after an hour or so he headed back to his table to collect his wife before retiring to his quarters for the night to catch up on some much needed rest.

Margon was surprised that he had enjoyed the ceremony.  It was great to see the interaction of the crew.  He saw nothing negative occurring, which was rare.  Sometimes it was hard for him to take off his "counselor" hat.  He didn't really ever get to do that unless he was locked away in his holoquarters. 

J'Dan was collecting glasses off of the bar, "So Counselor, how goes it?"

"It's good J'Dan, I'm still working through some stuff, but I'm doing well."

"We're all still working through things" J'Dan smiled, "we need to hang out.  Maybe I can get your mind off of work.  I know of a great holo program with a cute Bolian lady."

Margon blushed, which was quite a sight on a blue man.  He raised and eyebrow and chuckled. 

"Uh, maybe.  A strong maybe." he chuckled.

J'Dan's communicator chirped.  "Private incoming communication for J'Dan Marley" 

"Gotta run Counselor, I'll be in touch" 

Margon finished his third root beer and vinegar, pushed away from the bar and said his goodbyes.  Walking out into the corridor he made his way to the turbolift and was on his way back to his quarters. He was quite familiar with the crew but there were so many different people on board doing repairs that it was strange to see people he didn't know. As he approached his quarters a repair crewman was working on a panel next to his entrance. 

"Hello" Margon said cheerfully, "what are you working on?"

The workman turned and for a brief moment things became tense.  For some reason Margon recognized him but couldn't place him. 

"Nothing to be concerned about  sir.. is it Counselor Margon?" 

"Yes, and you are?" the counselor said trying to read his identification.

"Oh, that's not important, I need a quick word with you" he said pulling a small laser welder from his work belt and forcing Margon into his quarters. 

Margon slowly stepped in and stared at the Orion worker.

"What do you want with me?"

"Where is your son?" asked the stranger.

"Brex?, what do you mean?  He's dead!"  Margon said in a shocked voice.

"Yeah, right, the man said sarcastically,  "Where is he?" 

"I told you, he's dead."

"Well, he must not be too dead, I just spoke to him yesterday, he has something that belongs to me counselor, and I need it back.  So I'll ask you one more time.. where is..."

The door chime sounded. 

"Don't say a word, and if you value you and your friends lives, don't report this.  I will be in touch."

"You can't be serious"

"Don't test me Mr. Margon, don't test me.  The people I work for are powerful."

The intruder motioned towards the door as he put his finger up to his lips.  "Let them in" he whispered as he tucked the laser welder into his utility belt.

"Come!" the counselor said.  The door opened revealing a crew member. 

"Thank you counselor" said the Orion walking out, "you shouldn't have any more problems with the environmental controls."  as he made his way behind the crewman he looked at Margon and put his finger back up to his mouth.  The glare was intense.

The door closed and the young ensign looked at Margon.  "You ok counselor?  You look like you have seen a ghost!  What's up?"

The counselor wiped his sweaty forehead and let out a sigh, "trouble ensign, trouble"

J'Dan slipped into his small office and looked at the screen.  "Incoming personal message for J'Dan Marley" the computer had written on the screen.  There was a small diamond shaped icon at the bottom of the screen.  J'Dan entered a code on the pad and the screen lit up.

"There you are, I've been waiting, what took you so long?"  a large lizard looking gentleman said.  He was missing teeth on both sides and was shade of lime green.

"I had matters to attend to"  said J'Dan in a somewhat slower than usual manner.  He was using the universal translator but for some reason it was working differently than normal.

"How many times have I told you that time is of the utmost importance in my communications.  If you value your family I would think you would get me the information that I need in a quick and efficient manner." 

J'Dan's fingers crossed back and forth on the panel of his desk.  The alien communicating with him was using a holo masking device.  He wasn't sure who he was really speaking too.  All he knew is that his name was Lethor, and he was a low life.

"I have the information you want, so just send me the payment and I'll give you the goods." J'Dan said confidently.

"There is coming a day when I will have the entire list my friend, and when I do I will have no need of you.  You think you can bleed me dry do you?" the lizard snarled.

"Well that isn't today is it?  Let's get on with it, I have other things to do."

The alien transmitted the data to J'Dan's work station. 

"Information received, I'll get back with you within 24 hours."

"You'll get back to me sooner than that.  I hear Moffa is not feeling well.  It would be a shame if he felt even worse.  And how is your father doing after his experience with the Borg?  Many people have been known to "end it all" after that kind of an experience."  The lizard smirked with a sarcastic tone.

Inside of J'Dan his heart jumped.  This was exactly what he was hoping to avoid.  How far would they really go? 

"Look, I'll keep my end of the bargain, you keep yours.  Transfer the funds and you will get what you want.  But Lethor... if you touch one of my family, I will find you.  I know you are not the person on the screen, don't think you are fooling me for a minute. I have my sources too."

Lethor checked his panel, how could his masking signal be detected?

"Understand me Lethor, if you do anything to them, I will find you and you will die."  He paused and gave his most evil glare.  "Brex out."

Lethor watched as his view screen went dark.  The image of the younger Bolian was a tad bit intimidating.  Working for the syndicate was not a pleasant job.  He wondered why he ever got hooked up with such horrible company.  At least one of his operatives was on board the Arabella during the repairs.  If he had too, he would harm Margon.  He couldn't seem to find Brex anywhere.

J'Dan sat alone in his office with sweat beaded up on his forehead.  How could he keep this up?  This ruse wasn't going to last much longer, and he didn't really have the list.  He would have to rely on his connections to provide the information to Lethor.  This was going to be a long 24 hours. 

He looked at his now blank screen to see the reflection of his dead friend.  "Computer" said J'Dan, "discontinue hologram of Brex."

She liked K'Tan for the obvious reasons. He was tall and handsome and very charming, but Ryla wasn't a typical female—she was a Trill and Trills were old souls. Through her symbiont, she gained the memories of a dozen lifetimes and if Ryla had learned anything from Drett— it was to be prudent with regards to romance. 

Okay, so he doesn't hate me, she thought.  Ryla felt a wave of relief that, for a change, had not originated from her Fertillian friend.

"You're very kind," she said in response to his complement. There was a brief silence between them before she extended her hand and smiled once more.  "It's a deal then. I look forward to the first lesson." He accepted her hand and she shook it as though a business arrangement had been made. "Would 1700 hours tomorrow afternoon be a convenient time for you?  Maybe afterwards we could get a bite to eat. Unless, of course, you have other plans..."

"Pe'taQ!" screamed the Klingon and charged across the cave raising his weapon with a practised ease.

Galdar stepped aside and lifted his own bat'leth as he did so. With a crash the weapons met, the Klingon's momentum carrying him past his larger opponent and almost to the rocky wall. As Galdar gathered himself for another assult the Klingon gave him a sneering smile.

"So you think YOU can best ME in a physical challenge?", he roared and started to move forward again.

Galdar maintained his composure and raised his own weapon. "Today IS a good day to die!" he replied with quiet conviction.

The weapons rang as contact was made, amplified by the unnusual accoustics of the cave. Galdar put all his strength into the blow, forcing his opponent aside...then dropped his weapon and clapped both hands to his ears.

"Computer, freeze programme!" he shouted as he tried to bury his palms in the sides of his head to shut out the pain that the blow had caused.

He took a moment to gather himself then stood and reached for the klingon sword on the floor. "Resume!" he called.

The Klingon charged...Galdar swung...and honour was settled. The body twitched once and then lay still. Galdar took two steps forward and looked down at his ex-opponent as the Klingon dissolved from view. He was expressionless at first, but slowly, a toothy smile spread across his wrinkled face and he hefted his weapon above his head and opened his mouth to roar a challenge at the universe.

Suddenly, his mouth snapped closed without uttering a sound and he threw his bat'leth to the floor. Turning on his heel, he walked towards the blank wall.

"Computer. End program".

As he exited the holodeck he muttered to himself.

"If one four foot Klingon takes that much effort to defeat on the 'easy' setting, I'd better find myself another hobby!".

As the doors closed behind him he ran his hands lightly along the top of his lobes, removing the sweat that had gathered on the orange skin, and headed off towards his quarters on Station 416 in the typical bandy-legged gait of his species.

Jack caught himself checking sensors again.  He knew the U.S.S. Ninnescah's alarm would bring any anomaly to his attention, but there was nothing worse than a surprise in open space.  Satisfied with the computers scans,  he slowly brought his eyes back to his data pad.   The Arabella was a great post, but she just lost 57 of her crew on her last outing.  He was familiar with covering for someones retirement or transfer. On this post however, he had the anguish of replacing a dead crew member.  A casualty that could have been the result of Borg assimilation! Jack shuddered, thinking about that fate. He sat forward in his seat. He would do his duty despite the awkward post.  Besides three more hours on this runabout,  and he would be at Starbase 416 and the Arabella.

"Maddock! Is there anything out there?"  Lieutenant Commander Smith was making his way forward to the  conn.

"No sir! Its all clear, and now its all yours."  Jack happily shifted the consoles controls over to the lieutenant, and therefor ending his shift.

Smith took the helm and double checked the sensors.  Three weeks alone with Smith was a trial all its own.  For a man whose ambition was to spend the rest of his carrier as a desk jockey, he was characteristically staunch.  Smith was delivering this brand new runabout to Starbase 416 then staying for his new assignment as this sectors native commodities administrator.  Despite his company, Jack was lucky to catch a ride with the lieutenant commander.  Unlike taking a personal shuttle he could take comfort in the knowledge that someone would be watching the conn during his downtime.  He leaned far back into his chair. Far from the responsibility and  controls of his console.  He sifted through an studied the personnel files of the Arabella's senior staff.  He also found the location of his quarters and every key system aboard.  He review detailed schematics, knowing he could have to repair any terminal.  Jack searched the files until he could no longer keep himself conscious.

"Maddock"  Smiths voice broke through his rem cycle.

Jack instinctively sprung forward, checking the Ninnescah's instruments

"Isn't she a beauty?"  The lieutenant stared in awe the the view port.

Jacks immediately raised his eyes to see the Arabella caged in repair arms docked with the station.

"Yes sir, those intrepids are special breed."  Jack said in reverence

Smith stared at him impatiently "the station Maddock"

"oow,  yes,  the station sir, she's very nice too" Jack couldn't agree completely but was careful not to patronize the commander.

The Ninnescah made her approach and a half roll to orientate herself with the starbase.  She quickly found her way past the Arabella, around the far side of  416, and to an unoccupied bay.  The landing on the docking pad was textbook(expedient but safe). Once it was stationary, it descended into the starbase, and eventual disappearance behind the bay's large sliding doors.

K'arath removed his dress jacket and heaved a sigh of relief. The promotion party had been very pleasurable and he enjoyed the opportunity to socialise and reacquaint himself with many of the senior staff following all the chaos of the Borg incursion. It would be good to get back into a more normal routine....a routine which would continue without some. Casualties in Engineering had been very high during the attack as the Borg sought to control the ship from there. With the help of the K'Tan and D'Callan, they had managed to save the rest. But the gaps in his team needed to be filled.

"Computer! Display Starfleet personnel record for Ensign Jacob Maddok."

The data appeared on he view screen of the terminal and K'arath sat back and read through the file while sipping an English Ale D'Callan had introduced him too. The Security Chief enjoyed his libations as much as K'arath. Ensign Maddock was a bit old for an Ensign, having only entered Starfleet Academy after serving in the enlisted ranks during the early years of his career. No doubt a man who knew how to put in an honest days work. He then served with some distinction on the Sutherland.

K'arath rose and prepared for bed. Tomorrow he would have a chance to meet the new Ensign and begin the task of rebuilding his team.

Cyra’s fingers moved up and down the piano keys as she played the last bars of an upbeat instrumental. Her investigation of Ryla Drett had been cut short when she realized that she needed to be on stage with the band who were missing the piano accompaniment. She had rushed to the stage and joined in as soon as she was in reach of the keys. Although her band mates were not exactly pleased with her at the beginning of the set, tensions melted away as the music took over them. And Cyra was more than happy to rejoin a world she was familiar with. It was a world that was full of light and quarter-notes, where anyone who listened was more than welcome to enter. The song ended, and it was immediately followed by applause. Many clapped with a flourish; others clapped only loud enough for themselves to hear.

“Thank you, so much,” Cyra said. Then, without any verbal introduction, she began to play the beginning chords of the last song before the band would take their break. It wasn’t until she began singing the first verse when she realized the irony of the song she was playing. She smiled, and then let herself get carried away by her rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon.”

"Ops to Ensign Galdar"

Galdar jumped as the comm signal rang out through Starbase 416, his hands reflexively moving to his ears. How long would it take him to get used to the Hew-mon volume that everything was set to? It wasn't like this was his first day in Starfleet but it took him by surprise every time. The Vulcans seemed to cope despite their excellent hearing yet here he was, flinching every time a call was made.

Mentally shrugging off the annoyance and bringing himself back to the present he tapped his combadge.

"Galdar"

"Ensign, please report to shuttlebay 4. The new Danube class runabout has arrived and I need you to complete the formalities."
 
"Understood, Commander. Out."

Tapping the badge again, Galdar quickened his pace, moving with more purpose now that he had something specific to do.

Starbase service was certainly more interesting than many of the orbital facilities he might have been posted to, but having been here for a while, he was surprised at how little really went on. What was the point of posting pilots to a station where so little piloting was actually required? Perhaps he'd been wrong in accepting a Starbase assignment? It wasn't as if most of the base staff weren't fully capable of flying the available craft in any case. It was almost a basic requirement for Starfleet service after all. Being posted to a base such as this meant everyone jumped at any piloting opportunity they could get...leaving him somewhat redundant.

Passing a port, his thoughts were interrupted by the sight of the docked Intrepid class ship and he paused to study it. After three weeks or so, the signs of exterior damage were slowly disappearing as the work crews progressed across the hull. It was still clear that she'd seen some recent action, however.

Moving off again, Galdar reminded himself to try and talk to a few of the crew and find out what had really happened. He didn't wholly trust the stories going around the station and there was little profit in rumour. While he may not be in business, he was still Ferengi and the 7th Rule of Acquisition was important: Always keep your ears open! (Not that he had a problem with THAT)

A turbolift arrived as he reached the doors. Good timing for once.

"Shuttlebay 4" he said, nodding up at the two crewmen already inside as he entered.

He stood to one side as the small pod hummed on its way and went back to considering his career. Promotion off station wasn't a realistic expectation at this point and reassignment aboard the Starbase would simply lead to more of the same. He had to find another alternative; he needed an 'opportunity'.

On Ferenginar he'd been pushed aside in the rush for latinum because he 'didn't have the lobes'. Here it was simply because the skills he did have weren't really required on the base. Should an ion storm ever engulf the place, they'd be glad of his flying skills but until then...

This was partly why he'd started to mess about with the various holo-entertainments the base offered - he needed something to keep him occupied.

He chuckled to himself again at the thought of the four foot tall angry Klingon. Occupied yes, battling holo-midgets? No!

He composed himself as the doors hissed open, noticing the slightly odd glance from the female Lieutenant beside him as he did so. He ignored her and straightened his uniform as he stepped forward out of the lift toward the internal bay doors.

---------

The Lieutenant watched the small, slightly stooped figure of the Ferengi until the lift doors closed and the car started to move again. She'd seen him about in the few months that he'd been on 416 but had never been sure what to make of him. A Ferengi in Starfleet was rare, to be sure, but a Ferengi pilot? Where was the profit in that?

She shrugged. By all accounts he was a good officer and a good pilot and she knew better than to let racial issues cloud her judgment of a colleague but still...those teeth took some getting used to! This time it was she that smiled as she returned her attention to the PADD she'd been pretending to study for the entire ride.

Quinn and Took made their way around the party partaking in small talk here and there. Margon glance in Quinn's direction but Nathan quickly turned the other way. Nic noticed this and questioned Quinn's actions. "It's a long story that I will have to tell you at a later date." Quinn replied with a smile. They continued to socialize for the next few hours before heading back to Quinn's quarters. As soon as Nic entered he turned to Nathan. "So", Nic said, "Why did you turn away from Counselor Margon?" Quinn sighed, he had told Nic everything that had happened to him while in the mirror universe but didn't go into great detail as to what Doctor Margon had done to him, Nathan sat down and Nic sat beside him. Quinn then went into great detail as to what Doctor Margon has done to him, how he tortured him and how much pleasure Doctor Margon got watching Quinn in excruciating pain. By the time Nathan had finished telling him what had happened, Took wiped the tears out of his eyes. "I had no idea," he said softly. "But you do realize that this isn't the same Margon" Took continued. Quinn stood abruptly and paced back and forth. "Of course I know that, but doesn't make it any easier. These past few weeks I have avoided seeing him. This was the first time I was actually in a room with him, hearing his voice brought back that uncontrollable fear I had while laying on that cold slab of a table." Nathan felt a chill run through is body. Nic stood and walked over to Nathan. He looked up into his gray green eyes and ran his fingers through Nathan's hair. "You're safe now" Nic whispered, "Now lets get some rest." With those words Nic lead Nathan to the bedroom.

The next morning Nathan got up and entered the bathroom. He activated the sonic shower and stood there as the waves sonic energy hit his naked flesh. Moments later Nic entered "Mind if I join you?" he said with a smirk, Nathan laughed as he stepped aside making room for Nic. After the shower they had a quick breakfast, dressed and exited Quinn's quarters. Nathan looked up and down the hallway before bending down and giving Nic a kiss on the cheek." See you at 1300 for lunch" Nic said as he turned and headed in the opposite direction. Quinn smiled and headed to the turbolift.

Joint post with JustX and moyer777


"So Doc, how do we do this?" Aeric asked as he sat facing the blue skinned ship's councilor. While part of him knew that Margon might be able to help him, the other part of him still clung on to holding on to the last fragments of family secrets that should have stayed buried.

The counselor handed Aeric a cup of tea.  Margon looked at him compassionately, smiled and then became serious, "What are you scared of Aeric? In the time that I have known you, your confidence and courage have masked the other part that all of us have. I've never seen you so insecure."

He stared down into his cup.  Aeric didn't like this at all, but found himself openly sharing, something he wasn't accustomed to.

"Insecure? That's a good word for it." Aeric mused. "I'm glad to know that Sairyn is alive. I didn't think it was possible, but I'm more than a little concerned about what will happen when Sevryll and Aria return. Sevryll remembers our past together. Things that should have stayed buried. She knows how we felt about each other. I've loved her though a thousand lifetimes and never once has it wavered. My greatest fear is that she will only remember loving me and that is far worse than her never knowing."

Margon sat quietly for a moment and considered his next statement.  "Aeric, many of us deal with these kind of emotions on a daily basis, we just don't have the means to suppress them like you do.  I myself underwent a procedure to block my memories from a personal tragedy years ago.  I can tell you this much, it made me feel empty.  Until I was forced to deal with it and bring it out in the open I couldn't shake it.  It was hurting the people around me.  I wasn't myself."

The counselor caught Aeric's eye and continued.

"What you are doing right now is good.  I truly believe that we will find a way to work through this.  It probably won't do any good to assume what will happen. You are going to need to quit working up scenarios in your head.  Let's not dwell on what could be. I know you are a planner.  For sanity's sake,  let's take it one day at a time."

Aeric couldn't believe that he had just spilled out one of his deepest secrets, but was impressed by the security he felt in sharing it with Margon.  He remembered reading the personnel file of the counselor's incident on his home world and thought of how it must have felt when he came face to face with his true reality.

"I'm all for taking things one day at a time. I'd like to work though all of this before they get home."

D'Callan pressed the small control panel on the outside of the Captains ready room.

"Come"

The door slid open and Joseph walked in.

"I'm sorry to bother you so early sir but i have a request"

Captain Quinn smiled at D'Callan and jester-ed him a seat at the chair in front of his desk.

"Congratulations on your promotion Joseph, you deserve it"

D'callan smiled back at Quinn.

"Sir it is you i thank. Your faith in recruiting me after what happened to me is something i will never forget"

Quinn gave a sly smile.

"So what can i do for you Lietenant Commander"

Joseph handed the captain his padd.

"Sir i need to go over to the station. They have what i need to complete my assignment and i would rather like to get this done and back to you as soon as possible"

Quinn concentrated on the padd and his face grew serious. He pressed a button on the padd and flicked it up. Handing it back to the chief of security he sat back in his chair.

"Permission granted. I'm sorry you have to do this while everyone is on shore leave. Report back to me as soon as you are satisfied with your result"

Joseph nodded and stood up. "Sir" he turned and left the room. As the door slid back D'Callan tapped his com badge.

"D'Callan to Dunn. I'm leaving the ship for a while. I'm leaving you in charge of security."

Dunn responded with a simple "Yes Sir" and D'callan headed for the transporter room.

Lester had managed to stay at the ceremony longer than he expected probably because he remained at the bar most of the time. As well as an engineering prowess his fondness for ale was a talent he had inherited from his father. Sipping his way through the event had led to him being successfully discreet. Unfortunately the practice required you to have a glass at all times. Luckily for him it was synthahol ale or fatigue would have been the least of his worries. After a more than polite length of time he headed for the exit.

Pressing the button on the wall Lester engaged the manual lock to his quarters. Perhaps it was his imagination or fatigue but the doors seemed to take longer than usual to fully close. Unfastening the coat to his dress uniform, the Ensign sighed in mild relief.

Lester's quarters were very organized and keeping to regiment he took it upon himself to pack away his dress uniform immediately.

"Computer, how long do I have until my next duty shift?" Lester asked, tilting his head slightly as many crew do when speaking to the disembodied computer voice.

"6.4 hours" the computer responded almost immediately, adding "You are required to report to Sickbay at the start of your duty shift."

"Really? By whom?" Lester didn't really need an answer; he had a good idea already. "And please refrain from providing me with superfluous information computer." He said with a hint of annoyance.

"Doctor Peterson" said the computer "who also directed that you be given this information when you next accessed your computer".

Lester shook his head. He knew he had been avoiding the routine 'physical' that all transfers must complete when starting a new assignment. The appointment was flexible and was not to interfere with important duties; a fact that Lester had made the most of to avoid the examination. With repairs going well he doubted he could get out of it this time.

"Acknowledged. Please inform Sickbay" he exhaled.

"Logged." Chirped the computer.

Casey woke from a much needed rest; it would take him awhile to recover from the many weeks of lack of sleep that resulted from fixing the damage done to the crew by the Borg, but he still felt better then he had in weeks.

Myella was busy humming in their small kitchenette preparing warm Rockocinos for him and her as she replicated them both some breakfast before their shifts in sickbay.

Casey stepped out of the sonic shower , dressed and greeted his wife with a big kiss, she smiled back at him as she placed their breakfast on the table. Dr. Peterson ate quickly then said goodbye to his wife. He had a stack of unfinished paperwork to complete and a few crew physicals that needed to be completed before he could begin his much needed shoreleave.

The doctor picked up his data pad and headed out of his quarters to deck five to begin his shift in sickbay, he smiled briefly as he thought of being one step closer to his vacation.

The aroma of a freshly cooked breakfast hung in the air of the James quarters as Aeric cleared away the dishes. Pans still rested on the stove that was installed just for these occasions. For the first time in weeks, the room was quiet. Rory had taken the girls to a day out on the holodeck and left him to get the quarters in order.

Aeric had barely gotten the dishes away when the display on his desk chimed.

"Incoming encrypted communication," the soft voice of the computer said.

Aeric took a seat at his deck and looked at the monitor. "Open communications channel."

After he spoke the words, the standard Federation background faded to reveal the face of a beautiful woman with almost fire red hair that draped her face in elegant spirals.

"Hello Oona," Aeric said and offered a honest smile. "How are you doing my wife?"

Oona smiled back at him. "I am well my husband, but I have missed your company."

Aeric nodded slowly. It didn't take much to see that he was a poor husband. He had been married out of obligation, but he had promised himself that he would be a good husband. It was a promise that had been strained to the breaking point by distance and other complications. "Oona, I'm sorry for that. I have so much to do here, but I'm not intentionally trying to neglect you."

"I shutter to think how much worse this could be if your actions were intentional Aeric." Oona said with soft words that struck Aeric like daggers.

"How can I make things right between us?"

"Come home."

"You know that I can't just leave my responsibilities here." Aeric sighed and ran his hand through his hair.

"What of your responsibilities here? What about your responsibilities to your wife?" Oona asked calmly. "I knew that your past might cause us a few issues, but this isn't fair Aeric."

"I know Oona."

"Do you? I've waited patiently for over a decade for you to be ready to start a family with me, but what happened to those plans? You restore Aria. You adopt Elizabeth and treat Rory like another of your children. Can you explain how someone that wasn't ready for children is suddenly raising them ... with her of all people?" Oona said as she tried to hide the anger in her voice.

"It's not like that. We're not involved. She's not even here." Aeric said in an attempt to calm his wife.

Oona's brow raised at that. "Where is she?"

"Sevryll and Aria left this universe with," Aeric bit his lip and took another breath. "Sairyn, my other daughter, the one that was presumed lost."

Oona schooled the emotion on her face. "Why? Is this a permanent departure?"

Aeric shook his head. "I don't know how long they will be gone. N'Vall was abducted and they are going to save him. I'm looking after M'Rynn until they return."

Oona sighed. "Aeric, I am trying not to be upset, but we both know how you feel. How am I expected to compete against those feelings when I am here and she's working so close to you?"

"There isn't a competition Oona. You are my wife and I would never dishonor our vows." Aeric said. "I love you, but I have not hidden my past from you."

"Perhaps you should have. It might have spared some of this pain. I love you Aeric, but it truly hurts that I only have a part of your heart. It hurts more that the one that holds most of that heart works side by side with you."

Aeric nodded. "Is there any way to make this right?"

"There are many ways, but they become far fewer when you are only willing to do so much to make it right." Oona smiled sadly and toyed with her hair. "I think that it is more than time for us to start our family Aeric. I want to see you. I want to spend time with my husband."

Aeric nodded slowly. "As hard as you might find it to believe me, I've missed you Oona. I look forward to seeing you again and I do love you."

Oona smiled slightly. "I know you do Aeric and it brings light to my life, but in your heart, I'm a candle flame and she is a nova. I want what she doesn't even know that she is missing."

Aeric sighed as the computer chimed again. "It's time for me to go."

Oona nodded. "My communication will not leave any records, but we should end it now. I am closer than you think dear husband. Perhaps I might make my presence known so that you can have help with the children. Even though I was not consulted on the adoption, Elizabeth is our child and it would be nice for her to know of her mother. You should treat her as soon as she can handle the adaptations. I love you Aeric."

Before he could say another word, the communication ended and Aeric sat there looking at the blank monitor. Complicated things were about to get far more complicated.

*Joint post by MaxFazu and Bryancd*

Jack stepped from the stations umbilical onto the slightly lighter antigrav platting of the Arabella. To another crew member the change might not be noticeable. He however, had an aptitude for finding slight misalignments in just about any system. He could detect a hertz change in his sonic shower when key systems would power up. Of course carrying a forty pound case in either hand made detecting the change much easier. Jack wasted no time with his luggage and headed straight for his quarters. He nudged his door release with his elbow, and slid in. He then released his bags to the floor.

"Computer, recognize Jacob Maddock" Jack commanded the computer.

'please confirm" the computer chimed in.

"Maddock alpha epsilon 539 omega" Jack continued. "computer locate Lieutenant Commander K'arath"

The computer recalled. "welcome aboard. Lieutenant Commander K'arath is currently in main engineering"

Jack left the bags where they fell. He turned one hundred and eighty degrees and sprung back through the doorway. He knew exactly he was headed. Being an engineer, Jack had studied the Arrabella's schematics for weeks and she was becoming as familiar as the back of his hand.

This was the part Jack hated, the first impression. While starting his first post, he had reported to an Andorean sergeant named Toreth. He though back to more than a few scoldings he received when that blue face had turned a furious shade of indigo. He later learned, that within the first moments of their meeting Tureth had mislabeled him as lethargic. Even with a superb work record he wasn't able to crawl out from underneath the sergeants misconception.  Jack read K'arath's personnel files, and expected a fair deal from him. On the other hand, he was still a Klingon, and shouldn't be underestimated.

Jack shot through the engineering archway to find K'arath's back, as he worked at the main terminal.

"Lieutenant Commander K'arath" Jack stood like a board stuck in the sand, less one arm perpendiculary displaying the his electronic transfer orders.

"Ensign Jacob E Maddock reporting for duty sir"

K'arath turned around. The Ensign was very similar in height and build to the Klingon, however, his current posture made him look like he was being stretched by an event horizon. K'arath's face remained completely impassive as he took the offered pad from the Ensign and glanced down at it. He had already read the Maddock's personal data the night before, he just used the opportunity to make the man sweat a bit.

"Welcome aboard, Ensign Maddock," K'ararth said. "I have reviewed your personnel files and find you satisfactory for your duties. We have been under manned for some time and I need to know that you are up for the task. Tell me, Ensign, why did you seek a position on the Arabella and in my Engine Room?" he challenged, hoping the man would rise to the occasion.

"Sir. You have a heck of a ship here. Shes out here, working, fighting, helping people, doing the right thing!" Jack rose his hands with his palms face up "And if I can use these to help keep her running, keep her doing her job. Then I would be....     .... honored."  Jack waited a moment. Then realizing his error he snapped back to attention.

K'arath's eye's narrowed at the mention of the word "honor" and then a smile crept across his face. He barked a loud, short laugh.

"Ha! We shall see, Ensign! I understand you have experience with positronic netwrok systems. Well, my ship has no AI but her gel pack neuro-net is a close second. I am assigning you to the lead the repair efforts on that front, it is the life blood of the ship. STATION!" he commanded.

"Ey Sir, thank you sir" Jack released. Then he eagerly moved down the the third starboard terminal, and logged in.  Jack was elated at his chance of working so closely with a system that mimicked his hobby.  He stopped at his terminal and took a brief look around. Yes this would do, this would do just fine! He silently complimented himself.

Stepping out of the afterburner David and Fissual walked side by side back towards their quarters. Before rounding the corner David took one look back at Rose leaning on her roommates shoulder.

Lorna will take care of her, he thought as he passed out of sight. Rose watched him quietly deep in thought.

"Someone's got a crush." Lorna sang.

"What," Rose got defensive, "No, I don't..."

"He likes you." Lorna interrupted.

"Oh, you're not talking 'bout..." Rose blushed, "No, he's just being nice."

"Why do you do that? You can never except what's right in front of you."

"Cause it's not true, it's wishful thinking. My parents always told me never to dream and hope for things that might never be. It's a waste of time, better spent think of what is, and working for what will be."

"You're telling me you never had the girlie little dream of finding the perfect guy?"

"Well, yeah, when I was ten, but I grew up. Then I got..." She looked at her Borg hand grasped tightly round her metal cane, "What is now is that I'm not quite human anymore."

"Still brilliant," Lorna replied "and shallow."

"I'm not shallow."

"Close minded."

"Lorna, I'm in a moment of need."

"Sorry, I'm not going to speak against your parents. I know how much you respect them, but personally I don't think they ever planned you to be oblivious to the world around you."

"I'm not oblivious. I'm being realistic. Maybe I would have except the possibility before..." She paused, "I've changed. I know I can never have the happy life I was supposed too. The Borg took that from me. I've except that."

Lorna didn't know how to reply. Though she heard the words, she knew Rose was far from excepting what she spoke.

Hands moving deftly over the controls, Galdar dropped the U.S.S. Ninnescah out of warp and came to a full stop. 'Stopping on a dime' was the expression one of his hew-mon friends had used to describe this manouver and it had stuck in his mind. Financial references tended to carry extra meaning with Ferengi.

He spun the runabout hard on its lateral axis, stopping once he was pointing back toward the Starbase. He grinned as the inertial dampeners groaned slightly. No-one else would have detected the change, but then no-one else could fly by ear quite as he could!

He'd spent the last half hour deliberately pushing the little craft to the acceptable limits of its performance envelope but despite all his efforts it had held together fine. Runabouts could take a lot more punishment if required, but without being under enemy fire he'd end up on a charge if he pushed it any harder.

He'd done enough to prove his point in any case and he hadn't expected to have a problem. If the stressed plasma injector that the maintenance team thought they'd detected had been real, he'd have known it by now. The ship was new and Lt. Commander Smith hadn't exactly stressed it in his delivery flight.

Engaging half impulse, Galdar started back toward the station. Playtime was over.

A Joint post by Iceman and Dangelus


The turbolift doors closed with a hiss.

"Sickbay" Lester ordered.

The lift hummed into action and after a short ride he was at his destination. It was his custom to be early, he thought it was proper, even when he wasn't looking forward to a situation. Stepping out into the corridor Lester felt tense. Exhaling as much emotion as he could, he calmly entered sickbay. Doctor Peterson was already there attending to a crewmember.

Doctor Peterson finished mending a crewmembers broken arm due to a an unwanted encounter with a snowbank due to a miscalculation on a bobsled turn. Casey smiled at the crewmember as he suggested that it might be advisable to tweak the safety protocols before his next attempt at bobsledding. The crewmember thanked the doctor for his great bedside manner and quickly exited sickbay for his duty shift.

Dr. Peterson turned around to see Ensign Lester Garriss standing in the doorway to sickbay. Casey smiled at the Young Ensign, " don't look so worried my boy, this is just a formality that must be done to satisfy the paperpushers at Starfleet Medical"

The Ensign looked a little out of sorts as this was not quite what he had expected from the Chief Medical Officer, as most of the medical personnel he had been exposed to were very formal and not quite as personable as Dr. Peterson. Casey's manner seemed to put Ensign Garriss at ease, and seemed to reduce his stress level greatly.

"Thank you Doctor. How would you like to proceed?" Lester asked.

Dr. Peterson motioned for the Ensign to a biobed.

"We will get this done with quickly, so you can go about your business" Casey stated as he tapped on his medical tricorder waving it over Ensign Garriss's body.The doctor took some blood samples and made a few medical notes before asking Ensign Garriss if their was anything missing from his medical files or anything that he wished to discuss with the doctor.

Lester made a curious expression. "Doctor, you have been asking me to attend this examination for a week now. Forgive me but I was expecting it be somewhat more thorough than this." he stated

The Doctor Looked at the Ensign, then Replied, "This is usually true, if I find any anomalies in your tests  or lab results, which I haven't at this point. It is also why I have asked you if you have anything you wish to discuss medically and find out if anything is missing from your medical records.

"At this point, your medical records seem complete with no gaps. Is This true Ensign? or would you like to Add Something? You are by no means finished Ensign, this is just the preliminaries, Nurse Christine will finish your tests and inform me of the the results. If their is any anomalies in your tests my office will inform you."

"I have found that by doing the initial workups myself often tends to put crewmembers and officers like yourself at ease and more willing to discuss their medical issues if they have a doctor who is somewhat personable." Don't You agree Lester, "

Lester paused in thought before replying. What was Peterson fishing for? "I agree with your diagnosis Doctor. I have no physical ailments that I am aware of as my records will confirm."

He knew the doctor would have accessed his psychological profile. With a profile like his, medical protocol meant his records would be flagged for review by the ship's counselor. With this in mind he thought it best not to challenge the doctor further.

JOINT POST BY JEN AND HAWKEYEMEDS

"They're in here!"

"RESISTANCE IS FUTILE"

"Get down!"

A phaser blast burst through the tumblers behind the bar—a woman and two children ducked down to avoid the spray of glass.

"I'm sending them your way!" Shouted a man to the team of security officers situated at the entrance.

As the man began to grapple with another drone, the woman gathered the children and moved cautiously toward the corridor. The towering human was Dennis, the hologram that Joseph worked with to rid the ship of intruders. His image flickered as the drone plunged its snake like tendrils into his neck.

One of the children dashed back to help the hologram."Come back!" shouted the woman.

Dennis vanished just as the small boy came to his aid. Now he was the drone's target. It grabbed the boy and injected tubules into the child's yielding flesh as the Trill woman attempted to pull the toddler free. An instant later, she was thrown into a wall by a vicious backhand from the drone.

"Computer, pause program." D'Callan examined the frozen scene, before winding his way through the darkened room filled with terrified patrons and cybernetic monsters. Glass crunched under his feet as he moved to the bar and crouched next to the prone figure of Doctor Ryla Drett. Before her, the Vulcan boy struggled against the nanite assault on his small body. Joseph passed his hand through the red beam, emanating from the drone's ocular implant, and narrowed his eyes. The Chief Of Security then turned his gaze toward the smoke filled entry, where he could just make out the outline of the individual he was investigating.

"Computer, resume program at half speed."

The chaos around him began to move in slow motion. D'Callan watched as the small-framed woman staggered to her feet and stepped forward to confront the drone.  The smoke in the room was becoming thicker as a small fire spread within the room. Joseph once again turned to look at the entrance. One of his men was lining up on the Borg that Ryla rose to challenge.

"Computer, pause program. Resume playback. Quarter speed."

Joseph left the holo-image of Doctor Drett and walked along side the beam that slowly stretched to meet the small of her back. He followed the pulse all the way to its source: Ensign Tallon Bowers. Joseph positioned himself behind the security officer to witness the tragedy from his perspective. The low light and smoke obscured his view until the moment the beam struck Ryla. Then the room brightened with the light of additional phasers as they fiercely sought other drones. It was only then Joseph could see the Trill from that vantage point.

"Computer, pause program. Now highlight holo-image six, section thirteen and fourteen. Save image and add to report."

Joseph picked his way through the crowd to stand near the young doctor. "Computer. Resume program. Same speed."

Her body lurched and slumped, face first, to the floor.

"Pause," said Joseph. He grimaced as he stared down at her. After a moment he walked back to Ensign Bowers and examined the kneeling security officer.

"Computer, highlight holo-image seven, section fifteen and sixteen.
Save image and add to report."

The highlighted viewpoints of Bowers would be his saving grace. Yet, D'Callan knew how devastated the security officer was. The findings would not matter to him...the deed was done.

"Computer resume program. Standard speed." From the entry, Joseph watched as the drone disappeared. A shout rang out behind him. Startled, he turned back to look at Bowers, who's face had turned white with shock.

"Computer, end and save program. 'D'Callan investigation Two A'."

The surrounding vision dissolved into the black and yellow grid of the holodeck. Joseph pressed his thumb and forefinger to his temple then took a deep breath.  After a few minutes of thought Joseph left the space station holosuite and decided to head to one of the smaller restaurants on the station plaza.

A joint post by Feathers and Hawkeyemeds

Galdar sat in the corner of the lounge facing a large bowl of grubs. There were some compensations to Starbase life and a steady supply of 'decent' food was one of them. Admittedly, it took some negotiation to arrange a supply line as long a the one he used but while he may not be a typical Ferengi, he was still a member of that species and carried a certain amount of the innate ability that such membership implied.

Had he cared to, he would have noticed that the lounge was full both with station personnel and crew from a number of the docked and orbiting vessels. He didn't notice. His stomach was more important.

"Any chance of a seat, mate?" a voice to his left asked.

Looking up, Galdar saw a Lieutenant Commander in operations yellow with a smile on his face and one eyebrow raised.

"Feel free, I'll waive the one slip charge this time". He had found that most species generally liked financial references when dealing with him. It seemed to put them at their ease.

"Thanks".

The man dropped into the seat with an easy grace and lifted his drink to his mouth with the appearence of deep satisfaction.

"Ahhh, I needed that." He smiled easily and looked questioningly across the table.

"Galdar, Sir. Ensign Galdar, Sir. I'm a shuttle pilot on the starbase."

The man waved a hand.

"Go easy on the rank and priviledge Galdar. I'm not on duty here." He paused, "D'Callan, Chief of Security, U.S.S. Arabella"

Galdar nodded and, formalities over, went back to contemplating his grubs. With a slight lick of the lips the lifted a handful to his mouth. He was going to enjoy this.

After a while, he looked up again and found his table mate watching him idly while waiting for another drink. Strangely, he didn't seem that bothered by the consumption going on in front of him, something that regularly caused Galdar problems with others. Realising he was now being observed in his turn, D'Callan chose to break the silence.

"Good are they?"

"Mmmm. I'd let you have a taste but I doubt you would enjoy the result and I don't see much profit in the exchange. Sir.", he grinned and carried on eating.

"A Ferengi in Starfleet I can believe, but one who shared with others would be slightly too much to expect". D'Callan grinned in his turn as his drink arrived.

As Galdar cleared the bowl, he remembered something that had nagged at him earlier.

"The Arabella. That's the damaged Intrepid in dock isn't it? What happened?" he asked.

"Borg" said D'Callan. "and an asteroid field. We had quite a merry time of things for a while."

Galdar's eye's widened. So the rumours were more or less true after all. That was a surprise, but a welcome one. It wasn't often that the starbase rumour mill operated so well.

"I imagine that there was a bit of fancy flying going on in that encounter then Sir?", he asked, his eyes starting to light up at the thought.

D'Callan looked at him more closely.

"Tell you what mate. Get me another one of these beers and a packet of nibbles that don't wriggle and you can tell me how much of a good pilot you are."

Joint post by Institches, Jen and KC


"So...are you and the Lieutenant Commander an item?"

Ryla glanced up at the jade-skinned woman. "He's...a new friend."

"Is that Trill Code for 'we're dating'?"

Ryla knew Cyra, but she had never spoken to her before that moment and wasn't quite sure how to react to her sarcastic question.

"Trill code?"

"You know, like a 'secret code'," Cyra winked.

The doctor glanced to Mackie and then to glass of synthahol in her hands.  She slowly lifted it to her mouth and took a long sip as she stared at the Orion. Ryla returned the container to the table and smiled at the woman,  "No....  I've never been a fan of doublespeak. Deliberate ambiguity is something I try to avoid."

"So he's not taken? Excellent."

Ryla tried not to glower, "As far as I know."

"Oh, don't worry. I'm just messing with ya," said Cyra with a friendly smile. After a moment the bright smile grew dim,  "Do you remember me?"

Ryla stared at her for a protracted moment. "Unfortunately, I didn't forget anything from that night, but it's mostly an emotional blur. I know you were there," replied Ryla after an awkward pause.

Cyra nodded. "Well, anyway, I was just curious about you and your new 'friend'. I've had plenty of guy friends, myself. Of course, some were more beneficial than others, if you know what I mean."

"Um...right... 'Friends with benefits'." Ryla took another sip of her beverage. "That's great." She tried to chuckle but it sounded uncomfortable.

Cyra grinned and lifted an eyebrow. "You doing okay there, sugar? Is it me or the synthahol that's a little too strong for you?"

"...what? No...I'm fine. Really."  She laughed again, this time the chuckle was a bit more believable.  "You're too young to have had 'plenty of guy friends'.

"Twenty-three is too young? Honey, boys and I have been chasing each other ever since I was fifteen! I've had plenty of time to make some very interesting friends who also happened to be very good kissers."

"Twenty-three is young. Try adding three-hundred and seven years to that and factor in all the relationships one would have during those centuries." She fell quiet as the thought of what she lost punctured her mind once more. Ryla took another swallow of her drink. Aside from the three of them, the Afterburner was now completely empty. She had barley noticed the passage of time. I guess that means I'm getting over my fear of the Afterburner...or Mackie is still acting as a crutch.

Mackie felt her attention shift and projected a clean laundry smell. "I'd love to hear about whatever memory is making you smell so... female."

A mysterious smile soon appeared on the Trill's face, "There was this dashing young Starfleet Capatain I...I mean "Ameel" once knew. His type was a rarity in our sector. He was always ripping his uniform tunics. I think that was all apart of 'the act'. The ladies loved that about him. And, at the time, so did she. He was...'fun', for lack of a better term."

Cyra's eyes glistened and her smile grew wide. "Ooooh... I like this story. Interesting characters, romance, manly egos--it's almost perfect. Go on...continue. How long were you two an item?"

"One day. One very nice day. Then he was off on his next mission and his next exotic female. I've heard stories..."

"One day? That's nothing! I had a boyfriend for a whole four hours before he went off to his next conquest. He was... how can I put this... he was very good at pretending to be sensitive." Cyra began to laugh, as she had many times before when recounting this particular story and its absurdity. "I'm serious, he was quoting Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allen Poe at every turn, he would wonder why the world was so hateful, and he got 'crying on cue' down pat. But a lot of girls go for that kind of thing, and I was no exception. It was a really good show, I have to admit, but I didn't necessarily like the outcome. So I gave him a little something to remember me by."

Mackie looked puzzled. "What?"

"Let me guess," said Ryla with a smirk, "it wasn't a handshake." Mackie blushed and the three women's laughter filled the empty lounge. It felt good to laugh again.

"I can remember being married a few times. Well...Drett and the previous hosts were, but I can recall everything." Her words were wry and a little wistful in tone. "Drett seemed to prefer the same type of hosts and spouses: very safe, dependable, and boring." She glanced at Cyra, "Boring is not my style."

"I know. I can tell." Cyra winked. "Listen, I get it. I'm not saying you should leap into anybody's arms right away. But have some fun while you're waiting it out. It's not as if you have to live like you're inside a convent." Cyra followed this with her very exaggerated impression of a Catholic nun, pressing her palms together and focusing her eyes upwards. Perhaps a bit of thanks was in order--she had come very close to mentioning that having fun would not kill Ryla.

Mackie and Ryla laughed again, "I'll keep that in mind," said the Trill with a hint of sarcasm.

She looked out at the stars filling the large aft viewport and watched as a ship approached the starbase. "If you don't mind my asking, Cyra... How did you end up on the Arabella? I mean, what made you decide to take this job?"

"Well," Cyra began, "I was looking for a job that would allow me to travel, it didn't really matter what. But my dad has connections in Starfleet, heard about an opening in the lounge, and long story short, the Arabella's got herself a lounge hostess. Ta da." Cyra struck a pose as if she just finished performing an renowned vaudeville routine for a split second, and then returned to her normal composure.

"This place wouldn't be the same without you," said Ryla.

"Nope... The jokes would be too clean," Mackie's words smelled like currant jelly lightly scented with Cyra's own scent.

"And there wouldn't be as many males hanging around," added the Trill.

Mackie looked thoughtful. "Orion pheromones are legendary. But you're half-human: that's an interesting mix. Do you find that you use your scent to attract males?" inquired the Fertillian.

Cyra was a bit taken aback by Mackie's question. It was not the first time it had come up, but it was also a question that she had avoided often. However, there were a few situations when she felt compelled to answer honestly. The fact that Mackie had knowledge of these things made this one of those compelling times.

"Well... um... that's an interesting question. To be honest, I'm not quite sure if that distinct... attribute applies in my case. At least, not that I can control, anyway." Cyra knew that her answer was not exactly the most articulate, but it seemed more polite than telling the Fertillian to mind her own business.

"It's not difficult to figure out. Most non-Orion females end up with a headache as a side-effect—though Vulcans and Fertillians are immune." Mackie turned to Ryla, "Do you have a headache?"

"No."

"Well, there's your answer...maybe...of course it could be because of all the 'help' I've been giving you, Ryla. But then again I stopped about four hours ago." A faint smell of peanut butter became apparent.

Ryla straighten. "Really?"

Mackie shrugged. "Yep."

The three continued trading stories until the morning shift entered the lounge. Ryla yawned, "I think I should turn in now. I enjoyed the visit.

Cyra grinned, but she could feel her body being affected by her lack of sleep. She hoped to remain awake at least for the next few minutes to bid the two women a proper farewell. "I had fun too. If you ever want to have some drinks and talk, you can usually find me here. I'll usually be up on the stage or mingling among the common folk."

Mackie nodded and stood to leave. "Oh, you won't find anyone common here, Cyra. Take my word for it."

Joint Post by Jen and Just X

Aeric James stood motionless as he looked out the viewport into what appeared to be empty space. He could feel her out there. He could feel the pulse of her starship. To physical senses, and the technology of the Federation, there was nothing unusual occurring.

Hello Oona, Aeric projected into the void--his thoughts laced with the traces of sentiment he was able to feel for her. I didn't expect you so soon.

I've missed you Aeric, her thoughts echoed through the connection that he created. Her own feelings were nectarous by comparison. I also have a solution to our problem.

A solution? Aeric questioned as his hand reached and touched the window. Perhaps you can share it with me, because I have yet to reach one.

We will talk when you arrive on my ship. I assume that you can spare a few hours for your wife.

Of course, Oona. I have a few meetings to take care of, but then I'll be ready for you to transport me.

Oona smiled to herself as she felt Aeric withdraw from her mind. She moved slowly from the central command center of her ship, and made her way towards the the stairs leading to the living facility. Externally the spherical vessel was only ten meters in diameter, but her people had mastered dimensional displacement technologies and the inside of her craft was ten times that in size.

It felt more like home than a warp capable ship. A smaller external mass allowed for greater speeds and required less power. Thanks to the assistance of her husband, her people's cloaking technologies had been enhanced with phase capabilities. It was like traveling in your own personal pocket in space. Being a smaller craft, Oona's ship had very few weapons systems. Defense was handled via stealth features.

Her recent thoughts of Aeric were colored with melancholy. Her husband continued to invent reasons why he could not to return to her world, and so she determined that her only option was to bring their home to him, and remind him of the love that she alone could provide. Oona had waited long enough for him to grow past the hurt he felt. He once told her that she had healed that wound by marrying him...and she had once believed him.

Oona entered the floor containing the open gardens. Her family warned her that Aeric had only wed her to ensure his freedom, but she knew better. She could sense his affections. Perhaps they were not as strong as what she felt for him, but they were there and if given a chance they would grow in time.

Time. Time was the only ingredient their relationship lacked, and it seemed to come into play often in Aeric's life. Time was never fair. Oona hated time and it seemed it hated she and her husband.

With the proper amount of time, she was certain she could fan the flames of affection that he disallowed. Perhaps it would finally consumed his heart and he would forget about his past and think about his future. His future with her. She needed to remind him of the real reason they married, and hold him to the promises he made her. The promises of a life together and a family.

"Where are you going, pink skin?!" The officer ignored the insult, and continued pushing through the crowded bar—moving away from the shouting Andorian. He found a spot near the Daboo table and claimed an unoccupied chair. The angry men had followed, and now surrounded him. He continued to ignore them until the leader slammed his fist onto the surface of his table. "It's easy to be brave from a safe distance...isn't it? Now that we're here to answer your challenge, you're suddenly gutless!" 

The officer finished the mug of ale he still gripped in his hand and slowly rose from his chair. The fuming freighter pilot stripped off his heavy coat and tossed it aside. His associates stepped forward to hold the security officer. "NO. I can handle this," said the pilot as he waved them away.

"Are you sure?" the Starfleet officer sneered.
A terrible thwack could be heard over the din of the bar as the pilot answered with a left hook that caught the man on the mouth.  The 'pink skin' stumbled backwards, but remained on his feet. Bar patrons scattered as the area around the two men, suddenly became aware of the disagreement. The pilot raised his fists to cover his body as he waited for a counter attack.  He watched as the dazed Ensign spat a mouthful of blood onto the deck and wiped the red spittle from his lips with the sleeve of his jacket.  He lifted narrowed, fanatical eyes at the pilot before flashing a crimson toothed grin at him. The officer suddenly inverted the table and rushed his attacker, catching him around the waist and throwing him to the deck of the Starbase lounge.  A tempest of fists battered the Andorian pilot, before he was able to wrestle the officer off of him. He then overpowered the human and held him in a choke-hold until the man lost consciousness. When the ensign stopped struggling, the pilot quickly released the insensible officer and left the bar—passing Starbase security on his way out. It wasn't his intent to kill the 'pink skin', just to teach him a lesson...today was Talon Bower's lucky day.

Ensign Bowers awoke in the Starbase's central brig with a brutal migraine. He wasn't sure if it was the hangover or the blue fist that had caused it...maybe both. The light in his small cell stabbed at his eyes. Talon raised a bruised hand to cover his face then sat up in bed. That minor exertion caused his head to pound with greater intensity. He moaned as the blood pulsed forcefully in his temples.

"Are you always this stupid or are you making a special effort today?" asked the brig warden. "Who in his right mind picks a fight with drunk Andorians?"

Talon stood up and walked to the force field, "I'm guessing you've reported this to my superior officer?"

"It's regulation," replied the surly Bajoran.

"It just keeps getting better and better," groaned the Ensign. He was already under investigation back on the Arabella and now Lieutenant Commander D'Callan would have to give up part of his shore leave, to bail him out for conduct unbefitting an officer. That was becoming the norm it seemed. Part of Talon wished the Andorian had killed him. Who was he kidding? That's why he picked the fight in the first place.  "Looks like I'll have to do it myself."

"What was that?" asked the brig warden.

"Nothing, chief...just the ramblings of a dead man."

The Bajoran chuckled as Talon returned to his bed and tried to sleep off his headache.

JOINT POST BY JEN & HAWKEYEMEDS

D'Callan gave a yawn and put the PADD into his pack. It had been an eventful day.  He'd completed his investigation, had a bite to eat with an interesting Ferengi and was about to head back to the Arabella to hand his report to the captain, when his com badge chirped.

"Lieutenant Commander D'Callan... Report to Brig Level 2"

D'Callan looked confused a moment then he remembered seeing a brawl in the bar on the opposite side of the communal area. "Oh no, not now..." he sighed and tapped his badge, "Alright...I'm on my way."

Ensign Bowers straightened as the Brig warden pointed in his direction.  Peering round the corner was an angry looking Joseph D'Callan. Talon watched as the Arabella's Chief Of Security held something out to the Bajoran.  The Ensign banged his head slowly against the cell wall as the force field was deactivated. The pain in his head would be nothing compared to going back to the Arabella with D'Callan.

"Stand Up, Ensign!"

Bowers stood to attention, even though the rush of blood to his head caused his migraine to intensify.

Joseph stepped into the cell and clasped his hands behind his back, "Do you know what I've been doing during my shore leave?" He whispered harshly.

Bowers shook his head and looked down.

"LOOK AT ME! "

The Chief Of Security glared into the Ensign's face until his bloodshot eyes met his own.

"I've been investigating your damn incident. I've spent my entire shoreleave looking after you, and now I'm called here to bail you out again!? "

Bowers eyes darted away for a second before turning a scowl back at his superior.

Talon flinched as Joseph put his hand on his shoulder. He was expecting a blow.

"What am I going to do with you Mr. Bowers? Look..sit down."

He pressed on Talon's shoulder and the Ensign sat on the bed. Joseph stared down at him for a second before deciding to sit next to him.

"I told you to make an appointment with Counselor Margon after the fight you started with Ensign Porter in the turbolift. You haven't seen him have you? You need to get this worked out or your going to be discharged. I can't have unstable officers in my department. I won't put up with it, and neither will the captain."

"I'm not dependable. You might as well discharge me, sir."

Joseph looked about the cell and sighed, "Everyone has moments, son. You are not the first Starfleet officer to be in this position."

Talon shook his head. "It's all my fault she died sir... and the entire ship will eventually know it. I can't face them...and I can't face her.

Joseph cocked his head to one side and stood up, "They will find out the truth soon enough, but you have to face that truth yourself. Now come on. It's time we went home. I want you to make that appointment with Counselor Margon...that's an order."

Talon slowly nodded.

"Come on, Son. Time to go."

"That's so amazing!"  Lieutenant Zremm said as his hand rested gently on Marie Barton's rather good sized belly.  He felt another good kick under his blue hand as he smiled wide at the woman laying next to him.

"He, or she seems to be a restless one sometimes.  This has been going on for a little while now.  Maybe all the excitement today got them worked up."  The young blonde engineer said as she took her hand and placed it over Zremm's, guiding him across her very pregnant body.

"I know we stayed longer than you wanted at the ceremony but I know we both felt it was important.  You sure the Doc says everything is ok with you and the baby?"  Zremm said, trying to keep his emotions in check and pulling on Vulcan techniques he had studies for many years, but always found difficult to master to any real degree.  He wished at times for his friend Sevryll's ability and control.

"Yes, now stop being a mother-Andorian and just enjoy the life we made together.  Wth everything this ship and crew has gone through lately, this life means so much - to everyone I think."  Marie said as she brushed her lips against Zremm's.

"I know, call me paranoid if you want.  But this child will be unique in more ways than one and we still don't know all the ramifications of a half-Andorian, half-human being."  He told her, again trying to sound more calming than he felt.

"Stop analyzing and just enjoy it, Ch'Fras.  Did you talk to the Captain about our shore leave on Ogus II?"  She asked the man she cared for more than anything in the universe.

"Yes, it's all set.  We leave tomorrow.  One week all to ourselves in the forests of Ogus II.  I hear it's very beautiful and peaceful." 

"Sounds perfect.  I still have a couple months to go so there should be no issues with the pregnancy.  All the other women in engineering with children told me to enjoy this time.  Because after the baby comes they say we won't rest again until they go off to Starfleet or wherever they decide to study."  She said as she curled up next to the lanky Andorian.

"Oh, I'm sure Starfleet's finest can handle a little baby!  Especially after everything that's happened.  I think if we can handle the Borg, we can handle anything!"  Zremm said confidently as he wrapped his arms around Marie, making her feel warm, safe and secure. 

At the command console at the back of the Starbase shuttlebay control room, Galdar cleared his station and looked thoughtfully at the blank screen. Below and in front of him, through the wide panoramic windows overlooking the bay, numerous Starfleet shuttlecraft and runabouts sat at rest on the deck with a couple of maintenance personnel moving between them. A Tellarite shuttle sat in the middle of the small ships looking odd and out of place. Things had been quiet for the last half hour with little traffic being processed through the bay and most of the assigned repairs completed.

"Computer. Display crew roster, U.S.S Arabella" he commanded.

Silently, the screen filled with names that began to roll upward as the list grew beyond the constraints of the display. Galdar had the computer do most things silently when working on his own, being easily distracted by the bleeps and chirps many other species seemed to prefer. He was sure it breached some sort of regulation, but wasn't going to stress overmuch at the thought.

As the names moved, Galdar read quickly, noting the spread of ranks and department dispositions. It was a fairly balanced crew on the whole but he couldn't help but note the holes. Holes left by the recent encounter with Borg, he assumed. Holes that needed filling. He hadn't learned an awful lot from his mealtime conversation with the human lieutenant commander, but he'd learned that much.

The pressure doors from the bay gantry swished open and the last two crewmen of the shift entered.

"All done Sir." Matthews nodded at the broad windows. "The type eight can go back into rotation and we've sorted the manifold problem on the nine."

Galdar looked up.

"Is it ready for a test flight?"

"Aye Sir. She's ready to go whenever you like."

"OK, thanks." Human politeness on Ferengi lips wasn't unheard of, but was still uncommon enough that Galdar himself was sometimes caught out by his own speech.

He nodded to the door and smiled, Matthews and Devaux grinned in turn and headed out to change.

Returning to the screen, Galdar identified a name, calling up further details. He shook his head and summoned another, then another. The name of D'Callan scrolled past and he lifted his hand for a moment before letting it fall to the desk again.

A warning appeared at the periphery of the display that pulled Galdar back from the Arabella and his thoughts. Not unusual during shift, the opening of the secure storage bay doors was very unusual when the shuttlebay itself was empty and those particular doors were sealed. Walking to the canted window, Galdar looked down to the floor below but could see nothing. This wasn't wholly surprising, since secure storage was situated directly beneath the control room.

Returning to his station, he paused before locking down the console and heading for the pressure doors and the gantry. He felt a little foolish pausing at the weapons locker to retrieve a hand phaser but as the only officer in the bay, the extra security seemed sensible. Shuttlebay 4 was a 'Starfleet Access Only Area' of the station but since they'd tractored that Tellarite shuttle in earlier in the day, he wasn't taking chances.

His footsteps on the gantry echoed round the space with multiple distortions caused by different return paths. He'd often wondered if he could arrange the ships in such a way as to equally space the returned sounds but had never bothered to try the maths. Life may be dull, but he hadn't reached that stage of boredom yet!

At the bottom of the steps he paused and examined the secure storage bay doors. They were clearly open though he couldn't detect any movement. In the middle of unholstering the phaser, he jumped when his combadge chirped.

"Hey Galdar, what's up?"

Looking up he saw his relief, Lieutenant Andrews, in the control room. The look on his face at the sight of the armed Ferengi said a lot. Galdar tapped his badge.

"Nothing much, I hope, Nick. The secure locker door's opened down here so I'm checking it over."

He saw Andrews nod and began to walk toward the open door, bolder now that someone else was in the bay. No-one was immediately visible, but caution was still required. Pausing, he turned slowly, scanning the bay and listening carefully. There weren't many places to hide without being seen from control, but it was possible. After a good 30 seconds of silence, however, he let out a breath and relaxed. He'd have bet latinum on his ability to hear anyone alive in the immediate area.

Galdar stowed the phaser at his hip and turned to reseal the security doors. He keyed the familiar sequence quickly then headed back to the ladder and the control booth. He could see Andrews looking at him questioningly as he headed for the doors.

"Nothing there, Sir." he said when he got into the room and returned the phaser to its place. "I don't know what happened, but I've sealed it up again and I'll log it before I go."

Andrews nodded and looked thoughtful "Not had that problem in here before, but I'll get a crew in to give it a look over."

Sitting at the controls once again, Galdar unlocked the station and initiated the handover procedure, logging the resealed storage locker door as he did so. Andrews stood beside him until he finished at which point the changed places and the lieutenant took control of the bay.

Formalities complete, Galdar raised his hand in farewell and headed for the door and his quarters. He had another holo-session booked in an hours time and now had a very good idea of what he wanted to do with it.

Ryla's pounding heart slowed gradually, as did her breathing. It was only a dream...

After a moment of staring at the ceiling, she rolled her head to the left to read the chonometer. Due to the late night she spent in the lounge, the young doctor had slept for most of the day.  She turned her eyes back to the ceiling and lay there in the silence trying to forget the recurring nightmare. The dream always involved N'Vall and it ended the same way each time she dreamt it.

She finally willed herself out of bed and slowly moved to the sonic shower. Ryla had much to do before her first punching lesson began...like figuring out what to wear.  She hadn't thought to ask K'Tan, when he agreed to teach her the night before. The sound of the shower could be heard from the central living space, as she prepared herself for what was left of the day. An hour later, she donned a bath robe and entered the area where her personal computer resided. She plopped herself into the chair and accessed the database in search of the proper martial arts uniform.  Most of them were rather boring and, as she had mentioned the night before, she didn't like boring. A thousand files later, the Trill narrowed the search to three different styles. After two more hours of serious contemplation, she replicated the three uniforms and tried each one on. By then, it was time to go.

As she strode down the corridor a number of crewmen passed her wearing civilian clothing. They were headed to the Starbase and to the planet's surface to enjoy their shore leave. She had yet to do the same—it just didn't' feel safe. Perhaps I will feel differently after my lesson, she thought.

joint post by Jen & wraith1701




K'Tan stood in the center of the holodeck, wearing loose-fitting black pants and a simple, charcol gray pullover cinched at the waist by a black cloth belt. A series of bright-yellow gridlines stretched out above and below him, carving the rooms' blackness into a series of forshortened squares.  Even after all his years of service, K'Tan was still impressed by the uniformity of Starfleet technology.  Be they on a Starship, or on a Starbase, all Federation holodecks appeared the same while in 'standby' mode.  He just hoped that his training programs had been transfered from the Arabella without any glitches.

He glanced at his chronometer-- 16:55... 5 minutes until his appointment with Ryla.

"Computer; activate training program K'Tan-06. Level 1."

The black and yellow gridded emptiness was instantly replaced by a dimly-lit metallic cavern. Torches mounted on a ring of iron pillars surrounding him cast his features in stark relief, and reflected dimly from the metallic ceiling arching overhead. Beyond the ring of light cast by the torches, the cavern's details gradually faded, and were eventually swallowed by shadow.

From the surrounding darkness, bestial howls of rage and hunger ripped apart the silence. As the wails and roars grew closer, K'Tan's fists clenched.

A smile of anticipation crossed his face, then slowly melted into a scowl.

"This won't do. Might be a bit much for a beginner."

As the sounds of danger drew nearer, K'Tan sighed in resignation.

"Computer: End program. Initiate training program K'Tan-08, level 1."

The bleak chamber vanished, and was immediately replaced by a warmly lit training dojo. Bamboo slat blinds hung over the windows, softening the rays of the setting sun. Hanging on the walls were a series of archaic bladed weapons; Klingon bat'leths, katana and broadswords from earth, and Vulcan lirpa.

K'Tan crossed to the squat, earthenware incense censer standing in the center of the room, leaving faint footprints in the floor's padded matting. He closed his eyes, and deeply inhaled the soothing mix of Klingon and Asian incense burning on the censer's coals.

Behind him, one of the dojo's plain walls morphed into the familiar lines of a holodeck arch; His eyes slowly opened as he heard the doorway hush open.

"Welcome, Ryla. You're right on time."

Being on time was a rarity for the doctor.  As K'Tan turned to face her, she asked "Should I bow or something?"

She stood in the doorway, outfitted in a standard Aikido uniform, which consisted of black skirt and a white quilted jacket. Ryla noticed the smile that came over K'Tan's face and wondered if she had chosen the wrong uniform. The Trill glanced down at her attire and then back to her instructor, "Oh... I wasn't sure what to wear. I narrowed it down to three uniform styles: kuk sool-hapkido, Suss Mahn, and Aikido. They all had very interesting features, but I decided to go with this one for the first lesson because I liked the flowy skirt. Should I have worn a Mok'bara gi instead?"

"What you are wearing is fine," K'Tan replied. "The important thing is that your uniform not encumber your movement." K'Tan tilted his head quizzically, one hand slowly stroking his chin.

"It is actually an interesting choice of attire. Since you are a Doctor, Akido might be the most appropriate martial art for you to study."

Ryla gave him a skeptical look. "Since I'm a Doctor? What do you mean?"

K'Tan smiled, happy to be on familiar ground. "Many warriors consider Akido to be one of the most ethical martial arts. Instead of being focused on inflicting damage, Akido aims at blending with an incoming attack, and if given the opportunity, to put an end to it without unnecessarily injuring the attacker. In a way, it almost seems compatible with part of your Hippocratic Oath-- 'First, do no harm'."

K'Tan smoothly sank to the floor to sit cross-legged on the matting, and gestured for Ryla to do the same. "Before we go any further, I need to know what you'd like me to teach you. Does Akido sound like the right fit? Are you wanting to learn how to inflict the most damage on an attacker, or are you more concerned with avoiding or redirecting an attack?"

Ryla slipped off her shoes as she entered the dojo and lowered herself upon the mat across from the Chief Tactical Officer. She considered K'Tan's question as her eye studied the beautiful scene that her instructor created. The warm glow of the afternoon sun, the sweet scent of falling cherry blossoms and the distant trumpet of Swans, were a very nice touch...an artist's touch. She smiled inwardly at the simplicity and beauty of his handy work, before turning her gaze back to K'Tan.

Ryla sighed," I only put this on because I thought it looked nice." She felt silly admitting that fact but it was the truth, plain and simple. As long as she was being honest, she decided to be upfront in everything. The slight smile dissolved into a face that featured a furrowing brow. She looked away as she gestured to her midsection, "I have this spot inside me that aches. I think it's anger, but it's hard to pin a label on it. I'm not use to this feeling being trapped inside. I thought hitting something might help spend that energy. Aside from that...I don't want to be at anyone or anything's mercy ever again." She drew a sharp breath and exhaled slowly, releasing the welling anxiety through the heat of her breath.

She moved her gaze from the mat to meet his eyes, "Because you were raised a Klingon, I assumed that you would be skilled in Mok'bara. But, if you believe that I am better suited to Akido, I will trust your judgment and your experience."

K'Tan smiled. "The art one studies says a lot about what lies in their soul, and I don't know you well enough to make that call for you." He gazed at the doctor.

"But I would like to," he added with a twinkle in his eye.

With those words, Ryla's expression softened and a small smile framed by dimples appeared.

K'Tan stood up. "I would be honored to teach you the Mok'bara. It is an elegant art, and is as much a meditation tool as a means of self-defense. Its practice can soothe a tumultuous spirit, and it has the added advantage of laying the groundwork for the successful use of Klingon edged weapons, like the bat'leth. It will take time, and patience, but if you are willing, I promise to help you discover your ability to protect yourself, either armed or unarmed."

Ryla cocked her head to one side as she glanced up at him.   "Protecting myself would be a good thing."

Again, she thought of Commander Sevryll's son. If she had had the ability to defend him that day, N'Vall would not have been taken by the Borg. Ryla got to her feet and smoothed her jacket. "Please teach me what you know of Mok'bara, K'Tan."

I should not have been so informal, she thought.  It was the first time she called him anything other than "commander'. But he called me "Ryla"...didn't he?

She bowed at the waist and smiled.

"When do the punching lessons begin?"

Margon was in a tight spot.  He knew that there were a couple of ways to handle his situation, but couldn't decide which officer to contact.  Either the chief of security or the captain would be able to help, but he had to do this in secret.  Both had been busy, and he sensed uneasiness from Captain Quinn.  He had no idea if his communications had become compromised.  The unknown Orion was outside of his quarters working on the panel next to his quarters, so anything was possible.  How could he think that Brex was alive? 

Counselor Margon did have one more option.  J'Dan Marley could probably help him.

Margon patted Mr. Mouse on the head and sighed.  He would go to the Afterburner and find J'Dan.  Perhaps they could find somewhere private to talk.  In the meantime he had to act like nothing was wrong.  His father and family were at risk for something he had no answers for.  What was this list?

Took crawled through jefferies tube 56 heading to junction T1R85.  There was a faulty relay station that needed repair. This was his last duty shift for a week. His shore leave would begin as soon as this relay was fixed. It was 0900 and he expected to be done by lunchtime as he had plans to meet up with Nathan. It was boring work but several hours later the relay was humming and working properly.

He made his way back to Engineering. Since the ship was in dry dock under going major repairs Engineering was packed. He found Lt. Plummer who was overseeing repairs and reported in. Nic handed her the padd "Sir. I have completed my duties, and wish to begin my shore leave."  Elizabeth took the padd and gave him a smile, which exposed her sharp pointed teeth. "Get out of here... " Took nodded, turned and headed for the doors. "And better enjoy your shore leave..." She yelled over the noise. Nic gave her thumbs up as he exited Engineering.

Moments later he entered Quinn's quarters to find a checkered blanket sitting in the middle of the living quarters. Nathan was just setting down a picnic basket and looked up with a smile. "Oh you're early, I wanted to have a picnic lunch but the holodecks are down so I figure why not have it in my quarters."  Nic laughed, walked over to Quinn and gave him a hug. "It's perfect," he said as he sat down next to the basket. Nathan joined him and began pulling containers out. Nic rubbed his hands together with delight, "What are we having???"

Cyra sat on her bed with her legs crossed and her eyes closed. Although she usually meditated on the floor or in a serene setting in a holodeck, she couldn't bear to leave her quarters after her long and dreamless sleep. Especially after spending the majority of her time chatting, drinking, and singing at the promotion ceremony the night before.

I can't concentrate anyway, so there's no point of doing this next to a holographic waterfall, she thought. No, she wasn't supposed to think about anything right now—the point of meditating was to let all of her frustrating thoughts go. She inhaled deeply and tried to go through her exercises again.

"Inhale, exhale... mentally watch your body breathing in and out," Cyra said aloud. She pressed her palms together and brought her hands to her chest. She focused her energy on her center, the core of her being. She continued to breathe in and out. But relaxation and peace of mind were taking a holiday, and Cyra could only think about her conversation with Ryla and Mackie, particularly Mackie's questions about her Orion pheromones.

She had a great time with the two women, but she couldn't help but think on her feelings of uneasiness and relief when the subject had come up. The uneasiness came when the question itself was asked. She had no idea if she had the powerful pheromones that most Orion women had, and she never bothered to ask or find out. She wanted to continue to believe that it was indeed. Yet the relief that followed when Mackie mentioned that she might not have those pheromones was the best news that she had heard in a long while. She had remained as calm as she could for the remainder of that night, but she couldn't help but imagine fireworks and cheering, hanging banners high on the walls of her mind that read, "Congratulations! You're only Orion in appearance!"

And then for a brief moment, the memory of the green-skinned woman who had the nerve to call herself Cyra's "true mother" slipped in. Her name was Maali, and she was nothing and everything to Cyra all at once. If it hadn't been for the fact that Cyra was pleased with her thoughts about her lack of Orion characteristics, the very thought of Maali would have left Cyra sick to her stomach. .

Cyra smiled in spite of herself. I may be green, but every day in every way, I'm proving myself to be daddy's little girl. And with that, Cyra stood up and prepared for her shift in the Afterburner.

"Computer, lights." Aeric said upon entering his new office with a PADD in one hand and a mug of water in the other.

The soft white glow lit the large but spartan office of the acting XO. In the time that he had been in the position he had not seen fit to go overboard in the decorations. In one corner of the office he had placed a flowering vulcan kasa cactus that produced a sweet and edible fruit. On the shelves of his bookcase rested various books of fiction and fact from numerous Federation worlds. Also on that bookshelf, he had placed several holo-photos of his girls. The most recent of his attempts at photography sat on the corner of his desk. It was an image of Elizabeth, Rory, and M'Rynn at the picnic that he had taken them on. Smiles danced on their faces in the holo, the after effect of a game of tag between them.

Taking a sip of his water, Aeric placed it on his desk and mentally prepared his day. It would be filled with interviews and reports, but he was prepared. He had gone over the records and actions of all department heads and their assistants. He had calculated and recalculated the needs of the crew and the ship. He also had a wife that was waiting on him. It was going to be quite a busy day.

Joint post by Iceman and Just X

Aeric sat at his new desk and quietly reviewed the crew placements of the Arabella. He had only briefly held the position, but was quickly becoming adept to the nuances of it. With the repairs going on, it would be some time before they could get back to the stars and he wanted to have a full understanding of his duties before that.

In his mind, being the first officer wasn't much different from the duties that he held at the Vulcan Shipyards. There was far less paperwork, but there was no shortage of tasks to accomplish. It was the story of his life. No matter the advances or the goals that were achieved, there was always something new to push him in directions that he had not considered taking.

Part of his duties included meeting with the various department heads and also with the general crew. To understand the needs of the ship, a competent XO also needed to understand the needs of the crew. When he was the CAG of the Tiberius, he had almost as many people under his command as he did in his new role. Now he just needed to find the way to motivate the crew of the Arabella to the constant excellence of the Tiberius.

It was a role that Sevryll had performed well and he knew that he could never truly replace her. He could only attempt to look after the position until she returned. For him to do his best in the position, he needed to, at least for the moment, make the position his own. The first step was to see what his crew needed to be the best at their positions. His first review would be with Dr. Peterson and Aeric was more than ready to see what ideas the good doctor could bring to the table.

"Enter," Aeric said when the door chimed.

Dr. Peterson entered the XO's office with a PADD in hand. He had several things he wished to discuss with Aeric. He nodded to the commander and took a seat in the chair across from him. "Good Afternoon Commander."

"Good afternoon Doctor," Aeric replied and with the formalities out of the way, he started the meeting. "How are things going in medical these days? I'm trying to see how we can better this ship and shine as a crew."

"Things are slowly getting back to normal. The staff all did an exemplary job during and after the Borg crisis. I will start rotating staff out for shore leave with your permission of course."

"While we are here, with your permission, I would like to take the opportunity to upgrade some of Sickbays diagnostic equipment including the biobeds and EMH software. These minor retrofits should help improve the efficiency of sickbay greatly."

Aeric nodded slowly. "That's fine Doctor. I'll add that to the list I'm presenting the captain at the conclusion of my meetings."

Glancing to his PADD, Aeric continued. "How is your crew holding up after the Borg attack? How is Dr. Drett doing these days?"

Casey paused to reflect for a moment. "As you might well assume, the last mission was very taxing on my staff. Other then some post traumatic stress issues, which Counselor Margon is dealing with, they seem to be holding up well. I think that shore leave will go a long way on helping improving their mood. As far as Ryla is concerned, I hesitate to put her back on active duty yet. We really do not know at this time what effect not having a symbiont will have on her."

"She is seeing Counselor Margon, but I expect an update from him soon.  I think at the moment it would be prudent to give her some time to adjust to her new situation, before we burden her with sickbay duty. We would not want to give her more then she can handle, given the experience that she has just come through." Peterson concluded.

Aeric slowly ran a hand through his hair before speaking. "I understand where you are coming from doctor, but Ryla isn't dead. I appreciate the delicacy that people are using regarding Ryla, but I don't agree with it. If I had just come back from the dead, I wouldn't want the behavior of those around me to constantly remind me of that fact. I'll schedule a meeting with her and make my own observations and recommendations to the captain. Is there anything that you need for your crew or department that will get it functioning as the ideal medical department? My goal is to make this ship the envy of the fleet."

"Well as a matter of fact, there is. I find it near impossible to delegate difficult tasks to those below me, especially serious cases. Partly because I usually have more experience, but also because I'm something of a perfectionist. Unfortunately, this behavior does not necessarily help those working in medical." Casey started.

"I also have come to realize that if I ever want my own command one day, I must develop these skills. I was hoping that you might have some suggestions for me. My wife has informed me that I can come off at times as being arrogant and that is not the image I wish to portray as the head of medical on this ship. If I can deal with these shortcomings, I know that I can be a much more efficient and better officer."

"Do you think that your department is getting over worked with the current level of direct care that the crew needs?" asked Aeric.

"I expect that everything will work itself out with the staff taking their shore leave. Besides, things have began started to settle down. I know that part this situation has more to do with my past. I've had dealings with the Borg before. They were responsible for the death of my entire family. Since then, I have found it difficult to rely on anyone other then myself, and this last mission has brought up some very unpleasant memories. This may be responsible for me always taking on more then I can handle and failing to trust in my own staff's abilities. Since then, I've been feeling far more stressed and agitated. Last night, I finally realized that I can't do it all. I need to trust my staff."

Peterson slowly lowered his head and stared at the Padd in his hands. His hands slightly trembled as he waited in silence for Aeric to respond. He truly looked like a man who was defeated.

Aeric allowed concern to show on his face, "I see. I believe that I can help with that. It's obvious that you are over working yourself and that needs to stop. I'm going to recommend that you see Counselor Margon to set up a few counseling sessions for you. I'm also going to pull you back from the edge by delegating some of the duties in medical. I want you to assemble a small team that will deal specifically with general practice issues and rehabilitation of the injured crew. I'll speak with the captain about creating a wellness center aboard the Arabella. Sickbay will still handle critical care, but the general day to day health of the crew will be handled by the wellness center. You can assign the shifts, but you will not have any direct control over the wellness center beyond managing the personnel."

"This should give you more time administrating medical and less time attempting to do all the work yourself." Aeric's fingers danced over his PADD as he refined the request. "You will also allocate more duties to your assistant and take the time to recover doctor. Are there any other concerns that you have?"

"Yes, with your permission, I would like to take some shore leave with my wife. It should help alleviate some of the stress that I've been under. Would it be alright if I set up the staff for the wellness center after some shore leave?"

"Consider the shore leave both mandatory and granted." Aeric said and rose to shake the man's hand. "Have a good vacation Casey. As for the wellness center, after I clear it with the captain, I'll assemble a team to run it. It's time to get things delegated in sickbay and that shouldn't impede on the rest that you need."

Doctor Peterson took Aeric's hand and returned the strong handshake. He felt as if a big weight has been lifted off him and looked forward to his vacation and his counseling sessions with his friend Margon.

"Sir, thank you for your help in this matter." Casey said as he walked out of Aeric's office.

Aeric returned to his seat and noted his observations. The meeting did not go exactly as he calculated, but progress had occurred. Of course he had many more meeting to conduct, but this was a good start.

"Computer. Initiate program Galdar 12a" the Ferengi commanded as he stood at the entrance to Holodeck 2 on Starbase 416. Still wearing his duty uniform, Galdar looked slightly out of place for a leisure period but for what he had planned, he figured he might as well wear his own uniform rather than have the computer simulate a temporary one for him.

It hadn't taken him too long to find what he was looking for once he'd got back to his quarters. Some of the records he'd accessed in the process should not, perhaps, have been available to an Ensign but in the long run, no harm would be done. It had taken a little longer to fabricate the simulation he was now initiating, but the experience should be worth it on two fronts. Firstly he'd get some information to feed into the idea that had begun to form in his head and secondly...secondly, he should get some interesting flying.

Actually, he admitted, the simulation hadn't really been that much work. Most of it was made up of standard fleet training components with the characters nothing more than officer simulations adjusted to fit starfleet personnel records and the dialog held in the logs. That gave him a fair amount of freedom of action within the simulation and, most importantly, allowed him to try it out today.

He grinned. Rule of Acquisition 62 came to mind but he doubted it had ever been applied in quite this way. There was a definite risk in what he had done, unauthorised access to command reports and sensor logs, but the potential profit for his career seemed to outweigh the possible price. It was that selfish streak again, he admitted, frowning now. He'd wanted to try this so much when he read about it so now he was going to.

"Program Ready" the flat female voice of the computer announced as the doors slid apart before him with their customary deep whine.

Galdar rubbed his hands together in suppressed glee, almost tripping in his eagerness to get inside.

A ringing came from the door. Reese opened his eyes. He looked round the room for Fissual, he wasn't there. Reese could hear his deep wailing in the bathroom.

And he calls that singing Reese thought. He dropped his head down on his pillow. The ringing continued. He'd hoped he'd at least be able to sleep in today, it was supposed to be shore leave, he thought.

David rose from his bed and made his way to the door. Pressing the controls it opened. Reese didn't much like the voice command. Did seem right somehow. He grew up in a society were Federation technology wasn't as standard and voice capabilities were much fewer. Federation personal were somewhat often ridiculed by the locals for their insistent chitchatting with the machines. David tended to settle for pressing the buttons even though there was no one here who ridiculed his machine talk. Though he wasn't much for words in the mornings hours anyway.

"Reese!" Michael Delauney yelled as soon as the door slid open, "Get your clothes on we're going."

"What? Going?" Reese muttered "Going where?"

"Down to the planet. We're gonna shoot each other up, but not really, but arcade style."

"Arcades?"

"Yeah, you me, Fissual, possibly other, but not of our group."

"What about Lorna and Rose. You know Lorna would love that sort of thing."

"It's a guys' day, Reese."

"Guys' day?"

"Yeah, just us no girls to nag or annoy."

"Wait, no I get it. You don't want to get beat by Lorna, again."

"No, guys' day, what part of the guys day principle aren't you getting."

"Sounds like fun, just way do we plan these things so late."

"Late we've been talking about this since we arrived, me, Fiss,..." Michael stopped to think, "We told you, didn't we?"

"You know for two guys who love to hear yourselves speak you don't really get the important information out."

"So we didn't. Well, you got a half an hour, then we leave with or pretty much with you, the shoot 'em up ain't very fun with just two people."

Reese was eager to have a little fun. Seemed like the last few weeks had been spent caring and aiding for others in need. He felt a little guilt at times, everyone else seemed to be hurting and he was just beginning his life without demons to hold him back. Time to let loose a little Reese thought as he prepared himself to leave.

JOINT POST BY HAWKEYEMEDS AND DINGHEAD

D'Callan and Ensign Bowers walked along the corridor of the Arabella and stopped outside the Ensign's quarters.

"In you go Ensign. I'm confining you to your quarters. I'll speak to you later after I have finished debriefing the Captain."

Bowers said nothing as he stepped in. The door swished shut. Joseph sighed then lifted his back pack and flung back it over his shoulder. He was just about to head to the Ready Room when Ensign Baker chirped in over his combadge, "Lieutenant Commander D'Callan to docking bay six, please."


Squeezing his eyes closed, D'Callan shook his head and tapped his badge in response, "On my way Ensign."

Joseph was beginning to become inpatient. It had been a long day and he still had to deliver his report to the Captain. His shore leave was steadily decreasing and he had an insatiable desire to sit in the Afterburner and enjoy one of his own supplies of beer. Entering into the docking bay, he looked round for Baker and found him standing with another Ensign—a new face.


"Ensign Baker, you interrupted my visit to the Captain."

Baker spun around and stood to attention. "Sir. New arrival reporting in."

"Very good Baker... On your way."

D'Callan took the PADD from Baker and turned to the new arrival. Looking up at the 6 foot 3 man D'Callan smiled. "Big fella ain't ya. So..... Ensign...."

"Shane. Darius Shane"

D'Callan continued scanning the PADD. "Add a 'Sir' on the end of that and we'll get on just fine, Ensign" Joseph flicked him an eye.

"Sir."

"Welcome aboard. Come with me, I'll show you to your quarters". The two men strode down the corridor as D'Callan continued to read the new Ensign's personnel file. "Your report makes for an interesting read: 'Arrogant, Sarcastic and combative'." D'Callan turned to look him in the eye. "Good qualities for working along side me...they are not, Ensign. I may be in charge here, but we all look out for each other aboard Arabella. I see things in this report, which I will call you out on. And I am deadly serious about this..."


Ensign Shane looked at D'Callan with a slight frown.

D'Callan glanced back to the PADD"...For your interests, you've included the subject of beer. I have a personal stock of fine, authentic ale. Wetheroak in fact. Not any of that sythahol rubbish: Four point five percent, made from the finest hops. I've had a long day Ensign, and I make it a point to unwind in the Afterburner."

As they reached Shane's new quarters, the Chief Of Security keyed a sequence into the door panel and it swished open.

"I'll be in the bar in about an hour. I expect to see you there, we can go through your duties then." D'Callan gave him a curt nod and headed towards the turbo lift.

Darius nodded at his commander's back. "Yes..." he paused just long enough for the right amount of irony, "Sir."

Entering his quarters, he eyed the space warily. Starships weren't new to him of course, he'd been in Starfleet for almost twenty years, regardless of what the single collar pip said. Ah, the joys of being in an outfit that didn't use a lot of rank.

Dropping his duffel beside the bed, Darius crossed to the small replicator panel and requested water, the only thing he'd ever willingly ask from it.

A bed, a replicator, several square feet of open floor space... and low and behold, a viewport. Quite a step up from a shelf with room below for the bag he carted his life around in. "Welcome to the Ritz, Mr. Shane. Enjoy your stay..."

For only the umpteen thousandth time that day, Darius wondered just what the heck he was DOING playing security officer on the Arabella.

Arabella, now THERE'S an m-class chunk of irony.

'...we're worried about your performance evals,' the officious nit of a personnel officer had said. 'Ever since the...incident... you've been distracted, getting slower, more sloppy.'

Darius could hear the improvised grenade bouncing along the cargo bay floor, the people screaming and then the horrible gust of wind. Nothing is so terrifying in space as a sudden gust of wind.

'What you need,' the paper-pusher had concluded, 'is a break. Not more training, but not a vacation either...'

And so here he was.

Reaching out to the viewport, he found the control that turned it's interior surface opaque. It was supposed to be used to block out bright exterior light. The blackness of space, and Darius Shane's muted reflection was replaced by dull, matte gray. Fine with him, he'd had enough reflection.

With a small snarl, he turned on his heel, slammed the water glass back into the replicator and strode back out. He had the lion's share of that hour before his meeting, but he would need that time to find out all the unofficial things about security on his new posting: where people went, where they didn't, and all the little nooks and crannies in between.

She watched the woman and two children stepped out of the holodeck. Both girls were vulcanoid. She wondered which one was M'Rynn. The infants she carried in her womb, moved at the sound of their melodious laughter.  Sevryll placed her hand on her abdomen and smiled as the holodeck doors closed behind them. She liked this place, and so did the twins she carried. It was warmer than the Tiberius and no one had tried to kill them.  However, as pleasant as the Arabella was, she knew they did not belong among these people.

In the three weeks that she had been aboard, Sevryll split most of her time between Sickbay and the holodeck.  Due to the effects of the fissure, the children were developing faster than ordinary and so the physicians had deemed it necessary to monitor her pregnancy closely. Other than the medical staff, and Captain Quinn, she rarely spoke to any of the people aboard Arabella...though a number had mistakenly addressed her as "commander".

Nathanial checked on her often during her first week aboard his ship. He was attempting to find a place for her to settle—someplace she could blend in. Vulcan was apparently out of the question, for her double had fled her homeworld due to political crisis. She would find no solace there, yet there was another option that held promise. Mintaka III was home to the Mintakan people, a Vulcan-like race near a Bronze Age of evolution. Sevryll did not wish to leave the comforts of her new home, but she knew the time would come when she would wear out her welcome.

Galdar stepped onto a simulation of the bridge of the U.S.S Arabella retrieving a phaser from a crewman as he passed. Almost unnoticed, a holographic black pip materialised on his collar, next to the gold one he already wore. He descended to the command level and tapped the officer manning the helm on the shoulder, taking his seat as soon as it was vacated.

A shudder shook the bridge as he sat, throwing his predecessor to the deck as he moved to man an auxiliary station behind the bridge railing.

"Mr. Galdar, take us clear of the planet at maximum warp. Without primary weaponry, our options against the Borg are limited" a calm, Vulcan voice commanded.

Galdar's fingers jumped to the controls in front of him and power surged through the impulse engines in response. As the bow of the Arabella lifted clear of its orbital trajectory and it began to pick up speed, Galdar jumped it to full impulse - the quicker to get clear of the planetary gravity well.

The ship was large but responsive, moving quickly away from the planet under the Ensign's control. Galdar threw in a quick half roll to starboard as he detected an energy beam slicing beneath the secondary hull. "Whoever's on tactical has a good sensor setup." he thought.

"Captain, we are having trouble generating a stable warp field, due to the interference from the subspace disturbances." he called after another minute. That much of the official bridge record, Galdar could remember.

"Take us away from the anomalies at full impulse, and tell engineering that we need those weapons!" the Vulcan commander said as she turned to face the tactical station over her right shoulder. "Tactical, keep a close eye on the shields. While they were designed with the Borg in mind, this will be the first true test. We can't afford to let them fail."

Galdar's attention returned to his station as he danced the ship through the incoming fire from the sphere. The bridge crew were quiet and focused through it all, throwing themselves into their tasks. Almost in response, Galdar redoubled his efforts, flinging the ship around to avoid as much of the incoming fire as possible and forgetting, for the moment, the simulated nature of the engagement.

The Vulcan Commander turned to the Andorian at the science station. "An Asteroid belt is located here. The irons, stony-irons, and chordates that make up the rubble, are magnetized. How long would the sphere's sensors be affected by the magnetic field, before they're able to compensate for the disruption? An approximation will suffice, Zremm."

In reality, many of the crew had been in some form of disguise at this point in time but Galdar hadn't bothered to make the simulation that accurate using standard species stereotypes to fill the simulated roles.

"Fifty minutes at most."  Zremm replied as another barage shook the ship and an unmanned console blew out at the port forward auxiliary station, belching smoke and flame.

"Helm, set course for the asteroid belt. Take us in carefully, we can not afford to lose anymore shielding." the Vulcan called to him.

"Aye, Commander" he called in response, finally remembering her name.

Listening to the clipped conversations around him (all accurately logged and repeated from bridge recordings) he was learning a lot about the bridge crew of this ship and the command structure and style used to run her. He was getting the information he was after, but he was also enjoying this immensely. He'd had very few opportunities to fly a starship, real or simulated.

His hands danced over the curved panel before him and the simulation of the Arabella lurched suddenly, 'dropping' five hundred meters down the z-axis. With a snap, he pivoted it toward the closest part of the asteroid belt before accelerating to what his Academy pilot instructor would probably have called an "unsafe velocity".

"Steady, Lieutenant", Sevryll called calmly, her focus split between the asteroids in front, the Borg behind and the status of her ship trapped between the two. "We need those shields intact."

"Aye." Galdar grunted, baring his teeth in concentration as the ship, under his control, barrelled into the asteroid field.

Joint post by Moyer777 and Just X

Margon made his way to the Afterburner.  He ran into one of the waiters in the corridor.

"Have you seen J'Dan this morning?" he inquired.

"He's around here somewhere." said the polite young man. "Let me check-- Craig to J'Dan, what's up boss?"  There was no answer.  "I'll let him know you are looking for him counselor"

"Thanks" said Margon as his own badge chirped.

"Commander James to Counselor Margon"

"Yes Commander" Margon relplied.

"I have a cancellation in my schedule and wondered if you had a few minutes."

"Certainly, I'm on my way"

Margon thanked Craig and excused himself.  As he made his way to Aeric's office he tried to calm his nerves.  He tried not to be paranoid and not look around every corner for someone to attack him.  He needed to resolve this, but how?

He made his way to the Commander's office, was invited in and sat down.

Aeric smiled to himself at the progress of his meetings. He was getting a great insight to the crew with the one on one time and it was something that would better serve the ship in the long run. He smiled across his desk to the seated Margon.

"Thank you for coming on such short notice," Aeric said. "How are you holding up after all that has happened?"

Margon paused for a moment.  Should he tell Aeric about what was really going on?  He thought better of it and tried to think past his current dilemma.

"I'm all right, but a little frazzled to tell you the truth.  It is at times like this that I draw on a lot of the training I got from Star Fleet.  That, and the years of wisdom that come along with life.  Is there any chance that Star Fleet is going to send me some help?"

Aeric smiled. "If that's what you need, it's what you will have. I know how stressful things have been for the crew as of late and I don't wish to see you overloaded."

Aeric entered a few commands into his PADD before continuing. "Help is on the way. On a personal note, what is your opinion of Doctor Drett?"

"She has been through a lot Commander, but I am confident that she will be O.K.  I think the only thing we need to be concerned about is her confidence.  Losing your symbiont hasn't been a normal thing in the Trill culture.  This is unexplored territory.  She seems to be adjusting.  I think the more interaction she has with her friends on the crew during her off hours, the better she will adjust.  She just needs to know we believe in her and her abilities.  I did notice her fondness for K'Tan."  The counselor smiled.

Aeric chuckled. "That's good to hear. Do you believe that she's ready for more responsibilities? We have so many people dealing with the aftermath of assimilation that we're going to need to dedicate some resources into their treatment and recovery."

"I agree."  The counselor reached up and rubbed his new eye. "Everyone is having to adjust right now, I think it's a great idea to get folks the help they need.  In the case of Dr. Drett, I would find something she specializes in and challenge her to step it up.  It will get her mind off of what has happened and help her focus on her future.  She is a bright lady, even without her symbiont."

The counselor's communication badge chirped "Counselor" said the familiar voice, "You were looking for me?"

"Excuse me Aeric" Margon tapped his badge, "Yes J'Dan, I needed to go over your entertainment schedule for the next week"

The counselor felt bad that he had to lie, but he didn't know if his communications were being monitored.

"Sure thing" J'Dan said cautiously, What in the world did Margon want to know the entertainment schedule he thought to himself.

"I'll be over in a half hour or so, Margon out."  He smiled faintly and looked back at Aeric.

"So where were we?"

"I've just requested that we pick up two new assistant counselors," Aeric started. "The captain will need to sign off on the request, but I don't believe it to be an issue. I would also like it if we could, for the time being, refocus your practice. How would you feel about running a trauma management group while your assistants deal with your normal case load? I know that you have been through a lot and I don't want you pushing yourself to a breaking point. We need you now more than ever."

The counselor sighed, "That would be a welcome relief, thank you for your concern.  Speaking of the Captain, have you noticed any tension with him?  He hasn't come to see me, even though I have invited him on several occasions.  It isn't like Nathan to be so stand offish.  You are working closely with him.  Is there anything I need to be aware of?"  Margon looked at Aeric with admiration.  He felt good about the first officer and the job he was doing.  The meeting was really boosting Margon's respect level for Aeric.

Aeric shook his head slightly, "I know that he's been through a great deal of trauma while in the other universe, but I haven't directly spoken to him on it. Quinn is a good man that knows his limitations and given time, I believe that he might share what happened. After I complete my reports, I am going to present the findings to him and see if I can find out what happened. Once I do, we'll see what we can do to make things better."

Aeric smiled to the counselor. While this was only one of the many meetings that he needed to have with the senior staff, he enjoyed the honest conversation that Margon offered. This was a man that hard earned his respect by putting the needs of the crew before his own. In some ways, the counselor reminded him of himself. Both had lost so much in their lives and both had pushed on despite the pain.

"Margon, if you need anything or anyone to talk to, please remember that I am here. I might not be a qualified counselor, but listening is something that I inherited from my mother and sometimes we all need someone to just listen."

"Very much appreciated Commander, thank you." Margon wanted to ask for his help with the Orion worker, but held his tongue. "I can certainly use someone to talk to. Maybe we could do dinner sometime soon.  I am grateful for your friendship."

"I would like that Margon."

Joint post written by BryanCD and Jen

With their Holoadventure complete, Rory James ushered the girls into a turbolift to take them home for their daily nap. M'rynn and Elisabeth were singing when the door opened to reveal Lieutenant Commander K'arath. Rory smiled and motioned for the girls to follow her in. Elisabeth preferred to skip into the lift, but M'rynn was less eager to join her friends. To Sevryll's four-year-old daughter, K'arath looked angry. Rory apologized to the commander then stepped into the corridor to take the girl's hand and encouraged her in. M'rynn remained frozen in place—staring with wide, dark brown eyes up at the Chief Engineer. She had seen him several times before, but after all that had happened with the Borg she just didn't trust people who looked cross.  Rather than pick her up, Rory promised the girl a large bowl chocolate pudding and her choice of bedtime stories if she cooperated. The word "chocolate" seemed to do the trick, and the little girl slowly entered with the holographic woman. Rory apologized again for delaying K'arath as M'rynn continued to stare at him from behind the woman's leg.

K'arath did his best to hide his discomfort as he stared at the wall of the lift.  He realized just then that this was the first time he had seen Sevryll's daughter since he had stopped by her home on Vulcan, after one of the early missions on the Tiberius. In their own home, the children had been mischievous and playful although he had not interacted with them. He just didn't know what to do with a child. But since the encounter with the Borg, he knew their lives had dramatically changed. M'rynn's mother and brother were still in the alternate universe, and despite the kindness of the acting XO and his family, she was alone. He allowed his eye's to drift down towards hers as she continued to try and hide. He wanted to just....say something, anything, but the door opened on his deck before he could complete the thought.

He nodded curtly to Rory and strode off the lift.

Joint Post by JustX and Bryancd

Time seemed to progress faster in recent days as Aeric worked hard to serve as the acting XO. Meetings with the senior staff had become far more common place than with his previous posting as the Chief of Operations. Given what he new about his next appointment, Aeric eagerly anticipated the arrival of the Arabella's Chief Engineer.

Aeric rose from his desk with a PADD in hand as the chime to his office sounded. While the device was not necessary with his connection to the ship, it serve well in displaying things to those that did not have his psychic abilities. "Enter."

K'arath strode into the office and regarded the El-Aurian officer with a warm smile. It had been some time since he and the Commander had time to just talk. He distinctly recalled his initial arrival on the Tiberius in his unique runabout and being impressed by the man's command of technical knowledge. The last time they had the opportunity to work together was during the construction of the Arabella.

"Chief Engineer reporting as ordered, sir," he said.

"Thank you for coming," Aeric said and motioned to the chair across from his desk as he returned to his. "Please have a seat. I'm hoping this won't keep you from your engines long, but I'd like to get your take on the ship and what we need to do to make her the best in the fleet. She fared well against the Borg, but I think that we are both aware that she has the potential to do much better."

K'arath sat back in his chair and a exhaled a long breathe. "Sir, we have two problems which we need to address. First, the ships bio-gel systems have been cleansed of the nano-probes the Borg used to assimilate the ship thanks to Starfleet Medical Research. Their technological hardware adaptations are proving more time consuming to remove as we need to do that manually. I believe your Zero Point system connected to the warp core gave them a bit of a surprise and I'm sure they miss greatly the opportunity to assimilate it," he said with a slight grin, which quickly faded. The second issue is one of personnel. We lost a number of crew," he hesitated as his voice caught and Aeric saw, for the first time, a Klingon attempt to compose himself, "..of my staff and have brought in a few new officers to repla....to serve in their absence. I have had an opportunity to meet Ensign Maddock and have only briefly reviewed Ensign Garriss. I will make a point of meeting with him and reporting back to you."

Aeric nodded slowly, "I have Garriss on my list to meet as well. We can compare notes on him later."

After a slight pause, Aeric continued. "Being a Klingon, I assume that you subscribe to the belief of an honorable death. There have been many honorable deaths on this ship. I would like to see us move to a position where honor can be gained in other nonfatal ways. Each loss is a set back that we can do without. I know you run a very tight department K'arath, but what can we do to make it better? "

K'arath let out a long breath while he considered the XO's question. "To have honor is ones work, a warrior needs to honor themselves first. For Klingon's, that sense of self as well as self sacrifice is developed through a series of physical trials of strength and perseverance. Perhaps it's time for my new crew to learn something about themselves so that they better serve the crew which will depend upon them. The holodeck could provide the proper template and....motivation," he said with a slight smile.

Aeric chuckled. "I thing that I might have something to help with that. It will be completely voluntary of course as not to interrupt the leave that the captain has granted."

Aeric tapped a few commands on his PADD and slid it across to the chief engineer. "It will a contest that will test the mental and physical character of the participants. It will consist of five person teams with a requirement that each team is a blending of all departments. One person from engineering, one from command, one from medical ... I'm sure you get the point. From there the contestants will design and build a five man shuttle pod to operate on specific energy and fuel reserves. Then each pod will be raced to the planet. The contestants then need to make landfall in a specific area and go on to other obstacles. A team swim. A climb. It's still in the works, but it's going to be tough. Hopefully a few days in length and limited rations. All those things that we learned in the academy will be brought back to the surface and people will get a chance to bond."

"I know it's not a department specific team building, but what do you think?"

K'arath's smile broadened and he felt a new found sense of respect for the somewhat mysterious XO. "It will be....glorious."

Aeric smiled and rose. "Thank you for your time Chief."

JOINT POST BY JUSTX & HAWKEYEMEDS

Joseph knocked his back pack so it felt comfortable on his back. He tapped his com badge.

"Computer is Captain Quinn available"

The computer chirped back immediately.

"Captain Quinn is not available at this time"

Joseph smiled and thought to himself "I don't blame him, I bet he's enjoying his shore leaveand tasting something nice"

Turning back he decided to head to the afterburner and enjoy a nice cold beer, it had been a long and eventfull day and a nice drop of real ale would end his day nicely That is of course as long as no one else wanted him.


Next on Aeric's on his list of meetings was Lieutenant Commander D'Callan.

"James to D'Callan," Aeric said after tapping his badge.

"D'Callan here."

"If you aren't busy, could you report to my office to discuss a few things."

"On the way sir, D'Callan out."

The fact that it had only taken ten minutes for his chime to ring made Aeric smile. "Come".

The door slid open and D'Callan walked in. The man looked tired. It was beginning to be a trend with his department heads.

"Been up all night?"

D'Callan smiled and gestured to the chair. Aeric nodded for his to take the seat and D'Callan did.

" Unfortunatley I've had the Bowers investigation to deal with and we've just had a new crewman who's come board who looks a bit of a handfull.  I'd love to say that I have been busy practicing my bowling technique. Somewhere along the line I've got a game of cricket to play and I have a suspicion that Lieutenant Commander K'Tan has been putting in some batting over time "

Aeric leaned forward.

"Batting? Bowling? You seem to be quite interested in this cricket game."

D'Callan laughed and then looked at his XO.

"Sir, it's in my blood. As you know I come from Australia, and its kind of an important game for us ozzies. First reference to the game came in around 1300 in England, and us Australians ended up battling against the pomms for the Ashes"

D'Calan suddenly stopped as he noticed Aeric had almost glazed over. "Sorry Sir, I get a bit carried away"

"It's fine Lt. Commander, I think having hobbies are a good way to strengthen one's character." Aeric said. "It's also good to see you recovering from the recent stresses this crew has had to face. We need to find a better way to address some of the problems that this ship routinely faces."

Aeric lifted the PADD from his desk and briefly reviewed the contents. "Since we are considering a move for K'Tan, we might be expecting a little more from you. Joseph, I want this ship to be the envy of the fleet. I want dozens of transfer requests to join our crew to be on my desk each morning. I want us to be the model that all other Federation crews attempt to emulate. To do that, we need the best and I think that Captain Quinn got the best when he assembled this crew. What do you have in the works Joseph? What ideas do you have and what do you need to accomplish them?"

Joseph sat forward and remembered back to a conversation aboard the station.

"Sir, I tend to have a knack at judging people very well. I met a young officer aboard the station. A Ferengi named Galdar. He seemed an enthusiastic young officer and maybe a bit brash. He made it clear that he fancied himself as a bit of a pilot. I have not made any official move regarding a recommendation but as you mentioned transfers I thought I'd bring it to your attention."

Aeric swept his fingers over his PADD "Consider it noted."

Joseph continued. "It came to my attention during our recent issues that I need to boost moral in my own section. The incident with Ensign Bowers has obviously not gone unnoticed so I would like to have some team building time, but not in a militaristic kind of way. I have some ideas regarding Tactical but I need to have a chat with Lieutenant O'tak. I like his idea of the MACO Assault Armor Mark I. Its in its early stages but I'd like to see it go through."

Aeric smiled. "Excellent ideas Joseph. This isn't the first time that I have heard mention of the resurrection of the MACOs. I have an idea that might work to not only foster team building, but test some of the concepts behind a retooled MACO for the Federation in our age. This also isn't the first time today that a department head has mentioned team building exercises. Have you ever heard of an Earth sport called bobsledding? Or a decathlon?"

Looking up in the air Joseph smiled "Decathlon. The old games aye. I've seen them in the archives. Hard stuff but fun. I suggest we put a handicap on K'Tan if he takes part in the shot put."

"Being raised by a Klingon doesn't give a human Klingon strength." Aeric laughed and turned his PADD to face D'Callan. "Actually, I'm thinking something a little more intense. A ship-wide contest, volunteers only. The only condition is that each team is comprised of exactly five members. One person from command, medical, tactical/security, engineering, and science. The contest should challenge the mind and the body. So, each team must design and construct a five person inline shuttlepod within a specific time frame. Then, the shuttles are raced to the planet where the contestants proceed through a variety of other sports until they reach the finish line. Let's say swimming, running, and perhaps mountain climbing. It's not something we can do given the current status of the Arabella, but it might be interesting to start the process of setting up a ship-wide game of some sort."

"I'll bring the idea to the captain after I complete my reviews. I want you to come up with some proposals on how you would handle Tactical, I'd like to see more of your ideas."

"Aye, sir." D'Callan replied.

"Dismissed Lt. Commander," Aeric said to formally conclude the meeting.

Joseph stood and nodded to the Xo and as soon as the door closed he aimed straight for The Afterburner. He wondered if the new security officer would turn up. First impressions were important to D'Callan.

A joint post by Bryancd and Dangelus


Fifty two minutes. Lester Garriss had found the amount of time he had spent in sickbay as outrageously over bloated. Doctor Peterson has assured him that the examination would be quick. Perhaps if the doctor had got on with the tests without trying to make conversation with him it may have been. He had always been wary of new medical staff delving into his past and discovering his frequent appointments with counsellors yet the doctor hadn't even mentioned it. This worried Lester more.

Since he had yet to report in at his duty shift Lester was unable to estimate if his medical diversion would delay his progress today. Of course his superiors were aware of where he was so he wasn't concerned about that yet it still prayed on his mind. Lester didn't like to stand out among his peers and the thought of wandering into Main Engineering an hour into the shift looking for the duty roster made him flinch. He wanted to be performing his duties to the best of his ability without drawing attention to himself.

"Main Engineering" he commanded the turbolift.

"Relax" Lester muttered to himself, exhaling purposefully.

It was strangely quiet outside Main Engineering. The only sound was an energy fizzle emanating from exposed circuitry on the wall of the corridor. This was not an unusual sight on the Arabella at the moment. Lester had lost count of how many 'patch up jobs' he had personally attended to since the start of his assignment. The ship had sustained serious damage so to ensure vital systems were available and stable the less crucial operations were only getting temporary fixes or even being bypassed altogether.

As the opening mechanism of the doors to Main Engineering whirred and clicked Lester composed himself to enter as calmly as possible. Picking up a PADD with today's duty roster and assignments he quickly noted that Chief Engineer K'arath was on duty. Lester felt his throat constrict almost immediately.

K'arath looked up from the engineering station and saw the Ensign standing before him.

"Sir," he croaked as much as said. His hands were clasped tight behind his back and K'arath thought he heard the man crack his knuckles.

"Ensign...at ease Ensign," he said but saw no noticeable change in the man's posture. Although small for a Klingon, he was used to nervous initial encounters with humans but this was a something else. The Delta shift leader Lt. Plummer had made note of Ensign Garriss discomfort when working with others.

"Sir, you are... aware of my appointment in sickbay I take it. I apologise for the delay it has caused in the commencement of my shift. I am confident that if I get on with my duties at once you will not see a noticeable drop in my productivity" Lester said in an attempt to end the encounter.

This was the first time that Lester had had to speak to the Klingon Chief Engineer since being assigned to the Arabella. He had been present during departmental briefings but never had to directly report to K'arath or engage in conversation. The Chief Engineer had been too busy coordinating repairs and upgrades to the ship to personally meet new members of the engineering team leaving these tasks to his subordinates.

K'arath looked at the Ensign as if he was deliberating something.

"If... that will be all Sir..." Lester spoke again, this time slowly turning away.

A moment, Ensign," K'arath said, freezing the man in place."I had a meeting with the XO and we have decided to engage in some departmental team building exercises on the holodeck. It would be you, myself, and Ensign Maddock as a team, working together." Sensing the man's immediate discomfort he added, "It will be mandatory." He smiled.

Lester felt as if he had sustained a blow to the stomach. He could just about tolerate working as part of a team when it came to shipboard operations but this? Trying not to show his distaste at the thought of having to take part in the exercise he simply replied, "Yes... Sir."

Darius smirked to himself as he rounded the final curve towards his destination. The Arabella was going to be a far more interesting posting that he'd first imagined.

His initial sweep of her turned up five likely places to stash weapons, medical supplies or things he'd rather his new CO didn't know about. In fact, he'd almost gone ahead and created a few 'emergency supply lockers' as it were, but he'd decided against it. First, this ship wasn't likely to be boarded...OK, it wasn't TERRIBLY likely at least. Second, there were kids on board. The very last thing he wanted was to have to explain to a sobbing mother that his paranoia had gotten her inquisitive little angel hurt, or worse.

Besides, it didn't seem like something D'Callan would approve of. Ticking off the boss an hour or so into your first day? Not going to look so good on the resume.

D'Callan was still something of open question to Darius. He didn't seem the type to stand overly on rank and ceremony, as long as the job was done right. This Shane respected. It was how his unit had operated in fact. 'Officers...' he thought to himself, 'all those bright pips can downright BLIND `em sometimes...'

Fortunately, that breed of officer seemed to be a endangered species in this crew. They'd seen action, some of it was so hairy it needed a shave if reports were to be believed.

'So settle in, do your job and lose the drama cause no one cares.' Turning sharply at the next doorway, he entered "the bar" as the Afterburner had been identified to him. At least he devoutly hoped this was the place D'Callan had meant. Nursing a drink in the wrong locale while his boss was waiting for him elsewhere, would make stashing phasers in crawlspaces look worthy of a medal by comparison...

If there had been passion missing from their relationship, it did not show in their kiss. Aeric held his wife in a tight embrace and slowly pulled his lips away from Oona's. He had not realized that how much he had missed her until she stood there before him in his office. He had missed the feel of her soft red hair against his skin and that unique scent that was completely her.

"Did I interrupt your meetings?" Oona purred softly in his ear.

Aeric shook his head and smiled, "We're taking a brief break. I have more to complete, but I can afford to take a break."

Oona nodded. "Are we going to stay here for now or will you be returning back to my ship?"

"I still have duties to attend, it is best for us to stay in my quarters until we are done."

"Is Rory with the children?" Oona asked as her fingers slid down the back of her long absent husband.

"Yes," Aeric smiled, " we should have the place to ourselves for a few hours to get caught up. I'll also need to notify the captain of your arrival."

Oona sighed, "If you must. I fail to see how it will matter in the long run. He won't remember. None of them will. Have you treated Elizabeth? Will she be able to remember me now?"

Aeric nodded again. "As you suspected, it was the gene and not the nanites that protected me. She has that protection now. Aria was reborn with it and Rory's shielded from the virus your people like to leave behind."

Oona kissed his cheek and released him. "You lead and I'll follow."

Aeric chuckled to himself as his wife vanished from sight. He could barely register even the presence of her mind when she was cloaked, but he knew she was there. It was turning out to be a far better reunion than he expected. His heart might have been torn, but his duty was not.

"Computer, lights." he said and led the way out of the office. "Computer, also inform Captain Quinn that I will be spending the next several hours with newly arrived family and I will speak to him of it soon."

As they walked, Aeric could sense his wife just out of reach. Almost every important thing in his life had been just out of reach and this was no different. His heart was split in two and it was his fault. For so long he had gone after things that were just out of reach that he found it hard to notice the things that he did have. He needed to do something about that. He needed to change himself and his habit of playing the martyr. He could have a grand measure of happiness if only he was willing to endure that which he could not have. Endure and be happy or hurt and be alone. When put that way, it wasn't much of a choice, but it was still hard to decide. The heart wanted what the heart wanted and the universe would not allow him to have it all.

D'Callan walked into the Afterburner and quickly glanced round. Sitting at the bar enjoying a drink was the new security officer. "Good time keeping" thought D'Callan. Walking over to the new crewman he nodded at the barman who quickly looked round and then ducked below, Darius gave a slight frown as the barman reappeared with two bottles of wetheroak real ale. Pouring the amber liquid into two old style Human pint glasses D'Callan lifted his glass to the Ensign. "Cheers mate"

From across the room Michael watched the chief of security and then looked down at the puzzle in front of him. He had been looking at it for half an hour and he still could not see the planet that was hidden. Deciding that the bar was not the best place to concentrate he decided to find solace in his own quarters. His shore leave began tomorrow and he decided that a trip to the station store would be a bit of an adventure.

Lt. Dunn walked briskly down the corridor, his head held high not so much out of a sense of supreme confidence but in an effort to make sure his new rank pips could be viewed clearly. He had just finished his first duty shift as Lt. Nothing had really changed, D'Callan's staff interacted more like brothers and sisters when not on official duty assignments. If anything his first day as an Lt. had been filled with good natured ribbing and teasing as much as jaunty salutes. Still, he was proud of what he had achieved and as usual, nervous anticipating the expectations on him going forward.
He walked through the Afterburner doors and immediately saw D'Callan. 'What a shocker!' he thought with a smile. The chief did enjoy his downtime. He was sitting at the bar with the new security Ensign Darius. Dunn had yet to meet the new man and could think of no better way to break the ice, especially as D'Callan had broken out his stash of the "real" stuff.

joint post by Jen and wraith1701



In a holodeck on Starbase 416, Ryla's Mok'bara training continued.

K'Tan stood with his legs slightly spread.  Both arms were held at shoulder level, forearms bent inward to bring the fingertips of each hand nearly together, less than a centimeter apart.  "The Mok'bara represents the heart and soul of the Klingon people."

Exhaling slowly but steadily, he pushed his hands down towards his waist; to Ryla, it appeared as though he were working against some unseen force of resistance.

"Practicing the forms soothes the spirit."

Her eyes followed as he then took a step forward, simultaneously sweeping his arms up, then forward and down as his leading knee bent to bring him to rest in a crouching position. "Mastering the forms centers the body."


His fingers curled into claws, K'Tan smoothly swept his arms up to the right while rising from the crouch. He slowly pivoted his body in the same direction as his sweeping arms, then held that position for a beat.  "Becoming one with the forms brings victory."

His balletic movements were ironic given Mok'bara's defensive purpose. Ryla wondered if they were the origin of the word "art", in the term "Martial Art". She watched in silent admiration as the robust Terran moved with fluid grace before her.

K'Tan swiveled at the waist to face the opposite direction; the fingers of his right hand tucked into his palm. His right hand lanced forward as he flexed his left elbow, tucking the opposite hand in towards his ribcage. Another beat.  K'Tan then returned to his initial stance, bringing his arms up and crossing them at the wrists before his chest.  "Form 1.  The ghop-taj, or 'cutting hand'.  A deceptively simple looking set of moves, yet it is the cornerstone of The Art."

K'Tan gestured for Ryla to follow him to a series of mirrors lining the back wall of the training room.

"We will practice the ghop-taj today until you can duplicate the moves with minimal assistance. We will practice it on our next session, and the one after that as well."  He placed one hand gently on her left shoulder— she resisted the sudden urge to take a step back. "Our goal is to make the form a reflex for you; something you can do with as little thought as you use for walking or blinking your eyes.  Once the form becomes a part of you, we can begin your real training."

The doctor attempted a joke to elevate a sudden and unexpected feeling of nervousness. "I guess I should have mentioned this before you agreed to teach me... but I'm not the most graceful dancer. I tend to step on toes quite a bit."



Nearly two hours later, Ryla sat panting on the training room floor, her brow glistening with sweat.  "Who would have thought repeating a short series of moves could be so strenuous?" she asked.

K'Tan handed her a towel.  "You did well," he said, as she dried her face and neck.  "And I have a confession to make.  This training program includes variable gravity.  For the past 45 minutes, we've been practicing under 1.4 G's."  K'Tan smiled, then quickly raised his hand to catch the sweat-drenched towel rocketing towards his face.  "Nice throw."

He tossed the towel into a nearby hamper, his free hand absently tracing the old scar running down the side of his face.  "Computer:  Restore gravity to default setting."

As the gravity returned to Starfleet's standard of 1 G, Ryla felt suddenly lighter.  She stood with more force than she intended, her momentum causing her to stumble towards K'Tan.  The Tactical officer gently grasped her shoulders to steady her; as he felt her muscles tense under his hands, he quickly released her, and stepped back.  "Are you alright?" he asked.

Ryla blushed, and smiled sheepishly.  "Yes; I'm fine."  Her eyes strayed to the scar on the man's face.  "I hope you don't think I'm being forward, but I've been meaning to ask you.. where did you pick up the scar?"  As K'Tan's expression froze, she quickly added, "I meant no offense.  I was just wondering.  Your medical records have no information about it."

K'Tan's features thawed into a forced-looking smile.  "No offense taken, Ryla.  It's just that it's a bit of a long story."  He glanced at his chronometer.  "I'm scheduled to meet with Commander James back on the Arabella in a few hours, but if you truly want to hear the tale, perhaps I can tell you all about it over dinner?"

The smile she returned came easily.  "I'd like that."

Darius eyed the second glass with interest. He had two rules regarding beer, this situation satisfied both. "Thanks, Sir."

He took the glass with the reverence it deserved. The color and aroma were like nothing he'd ever seen, not outside the fake brews you'd get from a replicator anyway, and those don't count. He took one sip and sighed. "When I was in training, my first instructor was an ex-Bajoran freedom fighter. He used to tell us that the reason he survived the horrors he had, was that he had two missions. One, was to free his home, and the other was to taste the perfect beer." He smirked. "If I were to send him a bottle of this, he might cross the second off his list."

As he complimented the brew, Darius noted the approach of another officer, this one had a black pip that was far shinier than than the slightly worn gold one beside it. Come to think of it, Lt. Commander D'Callan had the same sort of shine on his black pip as well.

He'd heard there'd been promotions before his arrival, he just hadn't known for whom. "Gentlemen," He said raising his glass to both the Boss and the man weaving towards them, "belated congratulations."

Myella was in her quarters when doctor Peterson walked in. The look on his face told Myella that something was very wrong. She walked over to her husband with great concern and asked him what was wrong.

Dr. Petersom sat down at his desk and said " I can no longer run away from my past, the last mission has made me realize this. Myella sat down next to him with a puzzled look on her face and said " What do you mean?"

Peterson started to explain how he blamed the Borg for the loss of everything that was important in his life. How the battle of Wolf 359 changed his life forever, and how the hate of the Borg had consumed him for years. They had taken his family.

Casey explained how he realized that this hate was preventing him from being a good officer. He was afraid to trust those beneath him to do their jobs.

The Doctor had come to realize that he had spent so many years trusting only himself, because he was afraid to get close to anyone else for fear the Borg might take them away from him too.

He explained that until the last encounter with the Borg he had thought he had dealt with these demons, but now realized that he can no longer run from them and must deal with them head on, or they would continue to interfere with his life and career.

Myella looked at her husband with great concern and replied " We will get through this together, no matter how long it takes."

"I have informed Lt. Commander James of the situation and will be seeking counselling when we return from shoreleave. A wellness center will be set up to handle the day to day medical issues so sickbay will only handle the most severe."

Myella took her husbands hand in hers," I am very proud of you. You have admitted that you have a problem and have sought help for youself. I know how hard that must have been for you. It almost makes you Human," she laughed. " What are you waiting for?Lets get packed for our vacation shall we?"

Oona simply sighed to herself as Aeric looked at her from the edge of his bed. The sound of laughing children entering the living area with had quickly forced him to change their plans. He had assured her that he wanted her to meet the girls, but their current state of dress would seriously complicate that meeting.

"I'm sorry," Aeric said in a hushed voice as he began to redress. "I didn't expect anyone home so soon."

Oona nodded as she still lay in bed with a combination of the sheet and her scarlet locks covering her nudity. "I'm beginning to think that there will always be something to keep us apart Aeric. I knew that your life here would complicate our life at home, but when will we have our chance to be happy?"

Aeric turned to face her, his chest still bare. "Oona, I'm trying to make this all work. I have missed you and I haven't betrayed our vows."

"This life that you lead away from me isn't fair." she replied while sitting up and holding the sheet to her chest. " I knew that I didn't have all your heart when we married, but now I'm beginning to wonder if I ever had any of it. How can someone that claims to love you be fine with never seeing you? You might not have physically betrayed them, but I don't believe that your heart has been completely true to them."

"That's not true. I have missed you, but .."

"You have your other loves here and you haven't had to hurt as I have." Oona cut him off.

Aeric had no response as he moved and sat beside her. As much as he wanted to argue it, she was right. He was surrounded by family and those he cared about. It had made their time apart much easier for him.

"Despite your physical age, I forget how young you are inside. You are just a young man in some ways. One that still hasn't decided what he wants out of this life." Oona said and stroked his thigh. "I thought that this separation would remind you where you belonged, but it hasn't has it?"

Aeric sighed and touched her face. "I do love you. So much has happened and I'm just trying to get my bearings."

"You also love more than just me." she replied with a sad smile. "You need to decide what and who you love more. I can't and I won't fight against a memory. I know that a heart is not so finite that it's love can only be given to one person, but I also know that I am not so evolved that I am willing to share you with someone else."

"Oona, I've been faithful to our vows." Aeric started, but Oona stopped him by placing one of her delicate fingers to his lips.

"We've been married over a decade and I've had few chances to spend with my husband. Ten years might be a short time to someone like you and I, but a day of longing for your husband doesn't seem to pass as quickly. Perhaps we should not have married so soon after you lost your daughter, but we did." Oona sighed. "You need to decide what you want to do Aeric. I am not going to wait forever and you can't know what you want until you resolve those questions in your heart."

"What are you trying to say?" Aeric tilted his head slightly.

"We should suspend our marriage and the vows that we promised until you know what you want?"

Aeric's brow raised at that.

"I'm not going to fight with a ghost. I'm not going to fight against the whole of your Federation for your heart. If you and I are going to be together, then you need to decide what life is more important to you. You need to grow up and decide who you are going to be. Does your heart belong here or with me?"

"Why do we need to suspend our vows for that?" Aeric asked.

"As long as you are keeping your vows because of duty, we will never know if you can keep the spirit of them because of love. If our life together is one simply based on duty, it's a life I can do without. I want my husband to love me more than those other things in his life. I need to know what you would do if those duties were gone. Which of us do you love more, me or ... your Federation?"

Aeric nodded softly as he took in her words and the words she left unspoken. Truth cut through him like a dagger. "How does this work?"

Oona leaned in and softly kissed the lips of her husband before beginning the long explanation on how separations worked in her society. It could have taken longer, but separation or not, she still wanted to meet the children that she shared in her heart with her husband.

joint post by Just X and wraith1701



After Oona's departure, Aeric decided that his best course of action would be to lose himself in his work.  But on returning to his office, he found himself reliving their bittersweet reunion.  Of its own accord, his mind turned to memories of the delicate curve of her neck, and the gentle sound of her laughter.  He gave a small, pained sigh.  He could still taste the warmth of her last kiss.

I have to focus on work, he thought.

Aeric rose and stretched.   With meeting upon meeting, it was getting hard to tell how long he was at it. He glanced at his PADD again and waited for K'Tan to arrive. Aeric had made a lot of progress with the other department heads, but transfers were always tricky. It was also something that he felt was right for the ship. It would not only test K'Tan in new ways, it would give new insights to the position. Aeric knew that K'Tan was capable of more and in turn, he would expect more from him.

"Enter," Aeric called out as the chime to his door rang.

K'Tan entered the office, a PADD tucked into the crook of his right arm.  "Greetings, Commander James."  K'Tan gestured to the seat opposite of Aeric's desk.  "May I?" he asked.  At Aeric's nod of assent, K'Tan sat and activated his PADD.

"Thank you for taking the time to see me, Commander.  Skuttlebut has it that you are conducting performance appraisals of the senior staff, so I took the liberty of compiling some efficiency reports for my department."  He slid the PADD towards Aeric James.

"As you can see, I've developed my staff into one of the most outstanding Tactical departments in the fleet; we've fine-tuned systems almost to the point of perfection.  I've also successfully developed some true leaders-- While I was acting head of security, I took an ensign under my wing and helped to groom him into one of our newest Lieutenants- Lt. Dunn.  I've also tapped into and expanded the leadership potential in Lt. Otak.  When tasked with improving our shields and sensors during the Ter'Ossik mission, he and his team improved sensor efficiency by nearly 21%."

K'Tan paused, sighed, and leaned forward.   "Speaking of efficiency, there is a matter that I'd like to discuss with you.  Hopefully, as acting first officer, you can convince the captain to address it as well."

Aeric's eyebrow quirked in an almost Vulcan fashion.  "Go on, Mr. K'Tan.  Spit it out."

K'Tan paused to gather his thoughts, then continued.

"With every other ship that I've served on, both Klingon and Federation, the Tactical and Security departments were one and the same.  It seems redundant to have two department heads presiding over what is essentially one department.  And with the losses we suffered with the Borg, it seems to be a waste of resources."

Aeric nodded his understanding, and K'Tan continued.  "Joseph D'Callen has shown an impressive grasp of security matters.  And I've developed an extraordinarily competent Tactical team.  With the support of officers like Lt. Otak, I'm certain that there would be a minimal learning curve while D'Callen acclimates himself with the ship's tactical systems."

"Sounds like you're trying to work yourself out of a Job," Aeric said.  "With D'Callen in charge of Tactical, what would you be doing?"

K'Tan leaned forward aggressively.  "While I served in the Klingon Defense Force, I was being groomed for a position in command.  I served in many different positions, all with the aim of familiarizing myself with every aspect of starship operations."

K'Tan straightened in his chair, squaring his shoulders.  "Quite frankly, commander, I don't feel that I'm being challenged enough by serving as Chief Tactical Officer.  I could do it in my sleep.  And my ultimate goal is to gain a command of my own."

K'Tan stood, and began pacing the room.  "Initially, I thought that the best path to command would be to transfer to the Operations.  But many aspects of Ops, such as routing power to various ship's systems, run parallel to Tactical.  Besides; I'm looking to move forward.  I fear that permanently adopting Ops Gold would be a step backwards."

He stopped, and turned to face Aeric.  "Instead, I think that I can best challenge and develop myself, as well as serve the Arabella, by taking on a different position.  I wish to permanently transfer to command division, and take on a new role-- that of Strategic Operations Officer.  By doing this, I could oversee ops, while keeping a hand in Tactical.  Not only would this streamline communications between the two departments, but it would allow me to oversee Lt. Commander D'Callan's transition to Chief of Tactical, and avail him of my expertise at the post.  In a nutshell, as Strategic Operations Officer, I would be in charge of overseeing and coordinating the activities of the Operations and Tactical departments."

"Wow," Aeric said with a smile. "I do believe that is the most that I've ever heard you say at one time. It's a bold idea, but one that I am not in the power to grant. It is also a position that found more on a starbase than a starship. That being said, the core of your idea has some merit. At the same time, I don't believe that you are fully aware of the needs of the operations position. It is also unclear what duties a Strategic Operations Officer would hold on a starship. It seems that you have given this a lot of thought and I admire that. What I can to is authorize your immediate transfer to Chief of Operations and give you the opportunity to present a full proposal on your idea to the captain."

Aeric's smile faded slightly, "While the Tiberius was a much larger ship than this one and there was a need for separate Tactical and Security officers, the Arabella is a much smaller ship. Tradition has dictated that these positions be combined on a ship of this size because of the overlap. I need you to convince both the captain and myself why merging tactical with operations instead of security is the way to go on this. Operations has always coordinated their activities with Tactical. Not only tactical, but science, engineering, and even medical."

Aeric gave the man a serious look. "In all honesty K'Tan, a ship lives or dies by the skill of those in operations. It's far more than managing power or allocating sensor time. It's about knowing the ins and outs of a ship as well as every other department head. To send power to tactical and sensors, you have to know, not guess, know exactly what your ship is capable of. You have to know your people. If you want your own command one day, the best route to that is putting on that gold shirt and becoming one with your ship by knowing it. Operations is the only department that allows that. It's the only department that expect it. You are a bold man for wanting to put even more on your plate and I commend that. I want you in operation because I know that it will test you and that you will meet that test head on. If you want more duties, I am not going to refuse you a chance to present why you should have them."

"You want a new position. Convince myself and the captain that it is necessary to the ship and that it is in the best interest of the ship."

K'Tan quietly considered the Commander's words.  He had to admit to himself; much of what Aeric James said made sense.  And he knew that part of his reluctance to fully let go of Tactical was due to his fierce affinity with martial matters.

The hint of a rueful smile formed on his face.  It seemed that the longer he served, the further he drifted from the starship duties that he had always held most dear... first his reassignment from Security to Tactical; now from Tactical to Ops.

But to TRULY challenge myself, I have to be open to embracing new things, he thought.  As well as being open to stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Besides, he mused.  The commander is right; there is much I could learn from being Chief of Ops.

A subdued smile of determination grew on K'Tan's face, and he slowly nodded his head.  "What you are saying makes sense, Commander."  He extended his hand, and gave Aeric's a firm shake.  "I would be honored to serve as Chief Operations officer of the Arabella."

The Trill examined her reflection for the third time and frowned. "Why are you making so much of this?" She directed a puff of air towards her spotted forehead; causing the short strand of blond hair that fell across it, to settle on the right. Ryla stared at the flaxen lock for a moment, before her gaze descended on the fawn colored eyes of the woman in the mirror.  She was slowly coming to know her, and she was not unlike the person Ryla use to be.

The woman was wearing the unassuming, sunrise-yellow dress that her mother and father had sent the previous year. She had rolled her eyes in response to her mother's communiqué, which was delivered the morning that the Joining Day gift arrived: "Don't wear it any place dark and muddy. It's not intended for one of your caving expeditions. Go someplace bright and clean for a change... and send pictures. You never send pictures! For all we know you've grown a half a meter taller and all your spots have fallen off."

That would be the least of my problems, she thought with a smirk as her eyes roamed over her reflected image. Ryla hadn't had the opportunity to try the garment on until now. She was surprised that she liked it. It definitely looked better on her than it did in the box. The dress was pretty, but not flashy or loud. It was very feminine, but not too revealing. It was simple, but not at all plain.  Basically, it was the perfect outfit for a quiet dinner that wasn't quite a date. 

Her parents weren't the only people who had sent communiqués. She thought of all the messages recently received from family and friends. When she failed to answer their's, her sisters threatened to drop in on her. Despite the distance, Ryla didn't put it past them to arrive on her doorstep unannounced. It was definitely a possibility, but they hadn't knocked on her door yet...so chances were their threats were idle. 

Ryla knew it was inconsiderate to ignore them all and she hated herself for being so insensitive, but she wasn't ready to be bombarded with the inevitable fuss. She loved her family, but keeping them at a distance was paramount at this stage. Their overprotective nature would only hinder her effort to rediscover herself.  If she decided to have the memorial for Drett, she would invite them to attend...but not before she had the time to heal.

The woman in the mirror smiled dimly before turning to pick up a small object on the desk behind her. She and Ryla simultaneously opened their right hands and examined the elaborately carved Talismans.  Each polished black stone was engraved with the Physician's Prayer of Healing. A week after K'Tan gave it to her,  she had translated the Terrosick runes with the help of the ship's computer. She wondered if he understood it's meaning or the irony of his timing:

Bind and break the harm that was done. Render this affliction forever powerless. Health and vigor. Strength and life. Let it be.

She knew it had no real power, but it made her feel better. She had carried it ever since, and committed the words to memory. The stone was so much more than a mere trinket to her.  The inexpensive memento had given her a degree of comfort when she felt alone and frightened. To Ryla...her precious stone was a remedy.

She tucked the object into a small pocket as the intercom cut the silence of her quarters, "Lieutenant Commander James to Lieutenant Drett."

She grimaced at the use of the symbiont's name, "Yes, Commander?"

"Are you available for an impromptu meeting in my office in five minutes?"

Ryla paused a moment before replying, "certainly...if you don't mind my casual attire. I was just on my way to the starbase."

"It's alright, this meeting is very short notice. Don't worry, I won't keep you long."

Joint Post by Just X and Jen

Aeric paced slowly across the carpeted floor of his office as he waited for Ryla to arrive. Between family and meetings, he had managed to completely ruin any sort of time that he could have spent with his wife. It was a course of action that culminated into something that he had not expected. Long-lived species had a very strong enemy when trying to stay wed...that enemy was time. Oona's people realized that long ago and now Aeric had realized it. She was still his wife, but things were different between them now. It was something between a second chance and a fresh start. He was happy for both, but he knew that he wasn't the only one going through the emotions attached to having another chance at things.







Ryla pinned the combadge to the bodice of her dress and exited her quarters. K'Tan's meeting was obviously over if Lieutenant Commander James was now requesting a meeting with her. She stepped into the lift, called for the proper deck and tapped her badge, "Lieutenant Dre..."   Ryla paused. She didn't like using the symboint's name. 'Ryla Emarrin' was her given name, but K'Tan didn't know her by that. She frowned at the realization and gazed up at the ceiling, "Lieutenant Drett to Lieutenant Commander K'Tan."

"K'Tan here."

"I think I'm going to be a little late. Lieutenant Commander James has requested an impromptu meeting with me. If you still want to grab a bite to eat, I'll meet you on the promenade in front of the merchant quarter at 2100 hours."

"Of course. Do you like Klingon food?"

"Um...I've never had the opportunity to try it. I'm not usually squeamish, but I don't think I could muster the courage to eat Gagh."

"Neither can I," he laughed.

Ryla stepped from the lift and made her way to the XO's office. The chime sounded and an instant later the door swept open. "Commander," she said. "You wanted to see me?"

"How are you doing today doctor?" Aeric smiled and gestured for her to take the seat across from his desk.

"Today was better than yesterday, sir."

"I'm going to go out on a limb and assume that you haven't fully recovered from your experience, but the ship needs you. Are you ready to step up to a new challenge?"

Ryla hesitated a moment before sitting to the chair. His forward, 'cut to the chase nature' had once again surprised her. Her smile  was delayed as she smoothed her dress and sat in the chair. "What do you have in mind? " The Trill tried to sound eager, but she suspected the telepath knew that her enthusiastic tone was less than genuine.

"Doctor Peterson is addressing some personal issues and while he is doing that, we need to make sure that medical is still running smoothly," Aeric said and leaned slightly forward in his chair. "Pending the captain's final authorization, I want to convert some of the unused space aboard the ship into a general care facility. With many of our crew recovering from this last encounter, I believe that we could use more room. Casey will still be in charge of medical, but it's time to see what our other officers there can do, if given the opportunity. A decentralized medical system will also reduce loss of life if something happens to one of the two facilities. What are your opinions on this?"

She nodded, "A secondary infirmary would be useful. Patients requiring minor treatment or regular physicals could be diverted there, leaving Doctor Peterson to utilize Main Sickbay as a trauma and critical care center. If you're looking for a suggestion Commander, Myella Peterson would be more than capable of heading the new facility."

Aeric simply smiled, "I already have a perfect person in mind ... you. You're the assistant chief, and you've proven yourself to be a competent leader in the past. I know that you've been through a lot, but like it or not, you represent one of the only good things that has risen from the Borg attack."

Ryla's stare lingering for a moment— she hadn't expected him to offer her the position. "I appreciate your confidence in me, but my present condition would make me a liability to the staff. At this point, I'm not sure I'm the best choice to run the new ward."

"Your specialization would be better suited to a clinic than a trauma center, Doctor Drett. I understand that you are hesitant to do this. I can't blame you. I've lost my share of lifetimes to realize how simple it would be to crawl into a hole and recover."  Aeric took a deep breath. "The fact of the matter is that you're the best person for the job... You are a doctor. Given your relative age, I assume that this was a career path you picked before becoming joined. You still are a doctor. I can't afford to have both the CMO and the ACMO nursing wounds and trying to pick their lives up. The entire ship has suffered serious losses. In addition, there are now at least two women on this ship that could use your services, doctor. Casey needs a break and I need you to hold the line and make his job a little easier."

Ryla quietly absorbed his comments, yet she swallowed them down like bitter pills.    "I had no intention of turning from my duties, sir. I will accept the position you are offering.... Permission to speak freely, Commander."

He nodded in reply to her request.

She kept her tone respectful though the anger she described to K'Tan, boiled within her. "While I appreciate your efforts to motivate me, I assure you it is not necessary.  I am not hiding in a hole....or licking my wounds." She drew a quivering breath as she continued, "My hesitation is due solely to my desire to be a responsible officer."

A smile grew on Aeric's face, "That's good to hear. I for one am glad to have received that response from you.  I don't mind you having a crisis of confidence, doctor. From time to time we all need someone to believe in us, to restore our self-assurance. I wouldn't be having this conversation if I wasn't convinced of your abilities."

Ryla felt the seething emotion dissipate slightly, though his insensitive comments still irritated her.  "Thank you, sir. Once you have the Captain's permission, I would like to visit the space you want converted, to help create a floor plan."

"Of course. I'll keep you apprised of the situation." Aeric stood and offered her his hand, "I won't keep you any longer. Enjoy your evening."

Ryla left his office with little more than a nod. As she headed to the Starbase, his words simmered in her mind and her thoughts cooked up the replies she would have given him... if she had been ready to leave Starfleet.

Four Sixteen's interior was cast in a dull hue, yet the aromas were vivid.  The crisp scent of various foods, from numerous cultures, mingled on the promenade. They paralleled the mass of diverse peoples that wove their way through the merchant quarter.  As Ryla passed through the crowd, her ears caught strings of individual dialects. Some sounded coarse, while others were as lyrical as impassioned songs. The Trill had a fondness for languages and she listened intently for those that she could translate without the use of her combadge.

Ten minutes had past when her eavesdropping was interrupted by a Ferengi's aggressive sales pitch. Ryla tried to politely endure him—allowing him to prattle on for sometime before abruptly interjecting. "I'm sorry. I'm not interested. But thank you anyway," she replied in the Ferengi's native tongue. He gazed at the clothed female with a disgust, muttered something she didn't quite understand and shuffled off to harass another newcomer.

After that unexpected exchange, the doctor reactivated her badge and moved to the overlook near the Arabella's docking corridor. She gazed down at the well of decks below her feet. The opening in the upper ring was enormous. At the base of the structure, she could see a portion of the botanical gardens. Ryla wondered if Mackie had had a chance, to visit it yet.

A movement of air stirred the hem of her dress as the docking door opened and several crewmen entered the starbase from Arabella. When she didn't see K'Tan among them, she returned her attention to the garden far below.

Carrying a small pile of PADDS, Ensign Galdar reported for duty at the Arabella docking port and signed aboard the starship. He wasn't going to get the chance to fly it as he had done on the holodeck, but he had been assigned some duties aboard.

A couple of runabouts had been involved in the recent clash with the Borg so they deserved a 'once-over' to ensure they were functional. Additionally, the ship's shuttle fleet was going to get a general overhaul since they wouldn't be required to do much else for a while. Some would presumably be loaned out to crew on planetary leave, normal practice for Starfleet, but the others would be rotated though the stations maintenance facilities for a more detailed overhaul than the ship's facilities could provide.

Galdar wasn't here to do any maintenance himself, but as pilot duties on the station tended to include shuttlebay management and supervision, he'd been sent over to relieve Lieutenant Andrews who was overseeing the Arabella end of the programme.

"Shuttlebay" he called, entering a turbolift near the docking port.

The bay was relatively quiet when he entered. It held most of its shuttle complement but very few crew members. Most notably conspicuous by his absence was Nicholas Andrews.

Galdar looked round the bay then tapped his com badge.

"Galdar to Andrews" he called and waited. When no response was forthcoming he tried again. "Galdar to Lieutenant Nicholas Andrews, Starbase Flight Operations"

The pause grew uncomfortably long but there was still no response. Galdar tapped the badge again.

"Computer, locate Lieutenant Andrews, Starbase Flight Operations".

"Lieutenant Andrews is located in Jeffries tube 77"

Turning to the nearest officer, a human, Galdar saw him already pointing at an open access port to the rear of the bay. Nodding in thanks, he started over in that direction just before the head of his colleague appeared through the opening.

"Nick?" he queried. Then, as Andrews stood from the crouch required for Jeffries aces, "Your combadge sir?"

Andrews looked down then grimaced at the blank material of his uniform breast and turned back towards the hatch, muttering.

"Perhaps the Lieutenant should pay more attention in tight spaces." the human, still watching him, stated flatly.

"Perhaps, but he's as good in tight spaces as anyone I know on the station." Galdar replied. He stuck out his hand, human style. "Galdar, 416 Flight Operations"

The human shook his hand gravely and nodded in acknowledgement. "Lester Garriss. Arabella engineering"

Galdar made a point of looking about him "I've been reading something about your ship. You've been in a few tight places yourselves I believe?"

"Indeed." came the response. Galdar looked again - had he missed some pointed ears when he'd assessed Garriss on his arrival in the bay?

"How are the repairs coming?", he tried again, nodding at the open access panel in which Lester had been partially obscured.

"Progress is acceptable. Given the amount of damage we sustained, a significant repair period is to be expected. With the commitment of the engineering staff, however, and the help of station personnel I don't think we'll have a problem getting on top of things."

"Recalibrating the EPS grid?", said Galdar as he peered into the access panel. After giving him a slightly strange look, Garriss joined him, slowly getting drawn into a discussion on EPS management.

"I shall consider myself relieved then Ensign?" came an amused voice from behind.

Galdar stood and turned to Lieutenant Andrews looking slightly embarrassed. "Of course sir. I assume the latest repair has still to be returned?".

"Yes." the Lieutenant said matter-of-factly "but I don't expect it will be too long." He nodded to flight control where the officer on duty was clearly in discussion with some unseen third party.

"I'll see you back on the base." Nodding farewell to both officers, Nick Andrews sauntered from the bay, tapping his combadge as the pressure doors closed on him.

Galdar also nodded, but more thoughtfully and looked around him again. This ship had undeniably taken a beating but it had handled the experience well. He didn't know the odds but as a Ferengi he understood the nature of probability and the relevance of luck. Thinking over recent events, he made a decision - one that he hoped he wouldn't soon regret.

"Ensign Garriss, to whom would I speak about the possibility of a transfer aboard the Arabella?", he asked.

Garriss withdrew from the access port looking slightly surprised. "I guess you'd need to see the Captain, but you could do worse than having a word with Lieutenant Commander James first".

The hatch alarms sounded suddenly causing Galdar to flinch into a half crouch and effectively ending the conversation. Ferengi genetic reaction again, he cursed silently. Looking up he watched the doors slowly open to reveal a shuttle outside the bay returning from a maintenance visit to the station. They'd considered simply beaming the small ships in and out of the Arabella but it had been deemed more sensible to fly them. Galdar assumed that a pilot had been involved in the decision somewhere, a fact for which he was grateful.

Retrieving one of his PADDs, Galdar stood to one side as the shuttle settled to the deck then ducked inside the rear hatch as it opened. "Time to get on with the job", he thought.

After his meeting with Aeric James, K'Tan quickly made his way to his quarters.  He donned one of his few civilian outfits-- a pair of simple yet well tailored rynal-hide pants, and an earth-toned silk-weave tunic.  A charcol-gray overcoat of the same airy material gave his outfit a semi-formal look.  Almost as an afterthought, he grabbed his family dagger and scabbard, securing them to his belt.   

Minutes later, as he wandered down the promenade of the starbase, he noticed a disturbance up ahead.  A small crowd had gathered near the entrance to a gaming parlor, and a series of increasingly angry shouts were coming from the center of the mob.  He quickened his pace, and as he drew nearer, he heard the unmistakable, guttural rumblings of the tlhIngan tongue. 

This should be interesting, he thought.

A ring of civilians of different species stood in a loose ring around two loudly arguing humanoids; a Klingon, and a Naussican.  From the way that the onlookers were suddenly and frantically backing away, it looked like the situation was escalating.  Bones were going to be broken; blood was going to flow.  As the tall, dusky skinned human neared the motley crowd, it's members instinctively made a hole for him. 

Approaching the pair, K'Tan caught the eye of the Klingon warrior.  "NUQNEH!" he exclaimed. What is this all about?

The Klingon turned to glance at him in mild surprise.  From the unsteady slowness of his movement, K'Tan assumed that alcohol played a significant part in the conflict.  As he cautiously drew nearer, the smell wafting towards him confirmed his suspicion.

"WejpuHhh," the Klingon slurred drunkenly. "How charming.  An Earther who can speak like a civilized being!"

K'Tan glared at the drunken Klingon and nonchalantly flexed his shoulders, causing his coat to part and reveal the knife sheath attached to his belt.  The Klingon's eye darted to it, and noticing K'Tan's family crest carved into the leather, he gave an incredulous chortle.  "Ah; I've heard of you. You must be the foundling from the House of Gal.  I'm feeling generous today, so I offer you the opportunity to prove your right to wear that blade.  You can join me in slaughtering this Naussican veQnuj!"

K'Tan slowly shook his head.  "I have no quarrel with either of you.  I only felt honor bound to give you warning-- I've  alerted the station's authorities, and they should be here shortly.  It would be dishonorable for you to end the day confined in a starfleet holding cell." 

Taking advantage of the situation, the Naussican gave a sneering laugh, then turned and quickly melted into the crowd.  The Klingon turned and spat on the floor in disgust.  "You sniveling little toDSaH!" he raged.  "You'd best hope our paths never cross again.  For if I ever lay eyes on you again, I shall surely kill you!" 

After scanning the area for signs of approaching security agents, the Klingon quickly headed down the corridor.  As the crowd dispersed, K'Tan glanced at his chronometer.  Noticing the time, he felt his heart spike in alarm. 

"Tojo'Qa'!" he cursed.  I'm late!

Michael walked through the lock and into the station. After showing his credentials he humped his pack on his shoulder and aimed for a quiet area to concentrate on his puzzle. Suddenly he received a tap on his shoulder.

"Are you a member of the Arabella?"

Standing in front of him was an old man, he had a small mechanical piece of equipment that hoovered up bits of debris.

"Yes I am. I'm new"

The old man cackled and put his arm round the worried Ensign.

"Do you know what they say about the Arabella?"

Michael shook his head and then looked around for some assistance but no one seemed to notice the two men.

"They say its haunted. "

Michael smiled at the ramblings of this old caretaker but a hint of curiosity hit his mind.

"Haunted you say. How"

The old man pointed to a metal curved seat.

"Come with me young man and let me tell you all about it"

The shuttle bay was too untidy for Lester's liking. Untidy with components and untidy with people, he thought.

He had wondered why he had been assigned to it this shift as it was not his usual work rotation. Since joining the crew he had worked mostly independently on various areas of the ship performing tedious repairs, at least as far as he was concerned.
Unfortunately for Lester this area of the ship by definition was a hub of activity for the crew. As well as support officers coming in from the starbase, many of the Arabella crew were departing for shore leave. Much more interaction was required on the Ensign's part than his usual taciturn persona was accustomed to.

Realizing his duties were just about finished, he cleared up his equipment, logged off duty and headed for his quarters with the intention of meditating; an act he had yet to successfully perform since signing aboard, much to his own embarrassment.

Once inside his quarters Lester activated the manual door lock as was his custom.

"Incoming transmission for Ensign Lester Garriss." Announced the computer.

"Uh... route it to this station!" Lester replied, with mild annoyance.

He looked at the communication to see who it was even though he knew of only one person that would contact him. He opened the channel. The image of the Federation Diplomatic Seal appeared and was then replaced with the image of a woman.

"Mother." Lester stated flatly.

"Hello son, how are you?"  The woman replied.

"I... am well mother. It is fortunate that you contacted me at this time as I have only just finished my duty shift." Lester said with an enquiring tone to his voice.

"Of course you have Lester; I wouldn't want to interrupt you during your duties. We want to make sure this assignment is a success this time don't we darling?" his mother replied in a voice Lester had always disliked.

"Of course Mother. I am successfully performing my duties although I am aware that my skills are not being utilized fully. It is a most illogical situation." The Ensign interjected.

"There you go with your 'logic' again! Oh Lester, did you still get those funny looks when you speak to people? " There was a touch of  anger in her voice.

"I.... keep my interactions with the crew to a minimum Mother." He could no longer look at the screen as he spoke.

"Of course you do. Anyway, I just wanted to check you had settled in OK son. Try not to mess this up Lester, they have what you need here. I have to go now but I will be in touch soon. Don't forget son, I am always here if you need me. Goodbye" She said and cut off the transmission.

Shaking his head, the Ensign deactivated his console and cancelled his meditation plans.

Lieutenant Nicholas Andrews stepped into his quarters on Starbase 416 and waited for the door to close behind him. Sighing heavily, he loosened his uniform tunic, removed his combadge and threw it carelessly onto a small table beside the desk. It landed beside an identical looking unit.

The last shift hadn't quite gone as planned and he had only himself to blame. It was the last part of that statement that galled him; one oversight on his part was about to add all sorts of variables into an already tricky operation.

The terminal on the desk lit up announcing an incoming communication. Dropping into the seat, he turned the screen to face him and commanded to computer to open the communication channel.

The face he saw on the other end of the link did not come as a surprise.

Joint post by Wraith1701 and Jen

Ryla's eyes wandered appreciatively over K'Tan's civilian attire, "You look sharp," she said ironically—knowing nothing of the knife hidden under his jacket.

"I'm sorry I'm late," he replied.

She waved her hand dismissively, "no need to apologize to me, I'm hardly ever on time." The Trill turned from her place at the railing and smiled up at him, "and if you'll recall...I was late first. I'm just trying to figure out how you were able to slip past me. I've been near the docking corridor for a while now."

K'Tan smiled, and shrugged, "I've always had a knack for slipping by unobserved."  A wistful look came into his eye.  "It's actually gotten me out of quite a few... interesting situations as a child."

As the pair walked past a viewport looking out on the docked Arabella, K'Tan paused to look Ryla up and down.  "That dress looks good on you," he said with a smile.  "It complements your spots."

Ryla directed a reflexive smile away from K'Tan. She knew the awkward statement was meant as a complement and she sensed the embarrassment in his uneasy pause. "Thanks," came her lighthearted reply.

As his last comment replayed in his head, K'Tan felt his cheeks redden.  His normally dormant inner critic chose the moment to make itself known.  Compliments her spots?!?  Nice one.  Really smooth.

"And might I say those leather pants are very...leathery." She jabbed him lightly in the arm with her elbow as they strode down the corridor.

K'Tan cleared his throat and hurriedly tried to guide the conversation along.  "So, I hear that there's a restaurant on 416 that specializes in Klingon cuisine.  The real stuff, not replicated.  I've been curious to see how it compares to my mother's cooking."

The patter of running footsteps drew near, and the two quickly stepped to the wall to make room for an energetic trio of laughing Andorian children.  As the kids scampered down the corridor, K'Tan directed his gaze back at Ryla.  "So about that Klingon food; what do you say?  Feeling adventurous?"

Ryla watched the children run by, "As long as it's thoroughly cooked, I think my taste buds are up to the challenge."

The patrons that filled the Klingon restaurant were comprised of several species, but there was only one Trill and one human in the establishment. Ryla allowed K'Tan to pull her chair out before lowering herself into the uncomfortable, metal seat. A gruff Klingon waiter handed them each a menu PADD and, without another word, turned and walked away. Ryla watched him go before giving the menu her attention....or part of it anyway.   Her gaze wandered to K'Tan—he did look rather dapper in his overcoat. She flicked her eyes back to the menu when he looked up, "I can't read Klingon." Ryla glanced up from the PADD once more, "Would you mind ordering for me?"

"Not at all," he replied.  "I trust the 'thoroughly cooked' part doesn't apply to fruit or vegetable dishes?"

"Nope. That sounds good," she said with a nod of approval.

The stoic waiter returned to their table, holding two metallic mugs in one hand, and a large clay bowl in the other.  After placing the steaming carafes in front of K'Tan and Ryla, he set the bowl down between them.  Ryla peered into the bowl; it was filled with what appeared to be plain, clear water.  She glanced questioningly at K'Tan.

"For cleaning up," he answered.  "Most Klingon food is eaten with the hands, and napkins aren't typically part of the place setting."

K'Tan turned to the silent waiter.  "To drink, we want two glasses of bahgol, medium sweet.  To eat, we want qaraDa gham, with tlhatlh and zilm'kach served on the side."

The waiter gave a brief nod.  "Understood. Do you want your tlhatlh and zilm'kach broiled as well, or just the gham?"

"All prepared in the traditional manner," K'Tan replied.   "And grapok sauce.  Lots of grapok sauce."

As the waiter stalked away, Ryla turned to K'Tan.  "That was a mouthful.  So; what did you order for us?"

K'Tan raised his mug, took a sip, and winced; the wince gradually transformed into a smile of pleasure.  "QaraDa gham is litterally 'Karada Legs', which are traditionally served broiled over an open flame.  Tlhatlh is a rich, dark-green leafy vegetable.  Very succulent, with a strong, somewhat spicy, acidic taste.  Grapok sauce tends to level out the spiciness. And zilm'kach is a fruit native to Q'onos.  Verysweet.  The taste is hard to describe; to me, it's like a combination of Earth apricots and Betazed uttaberries."

Wearing an uncertain smile, Ryla slowly raised her mug to her lips; K'Tan quickly held up a hand in warning. "The drink is Chech'tluth. Translated into Standard, the name means 'Bold Drink'.  It is extremely potent, even by Klingon standards."  He glanced at his mug.  "I doubt that I could finish this without going into a coma, and I must be at least twice as heavy as you.  Please be careful."

She looked down at the brew, "thanks for the warning." Ryla took an experimental sip and coughed. Her eyes watered as she returned the mug to the table. "Is there a Klingon equivalent to a Shirley Temple?" She gasped.

"Yes...Water," he chuckled as he pushed a cup toward her. "Are you okay?" She managed to hold back the coughing fit, and thankfully received the water. The doctor swiftly lifted it to her mouth and flooded the fire in her stomach. She couldn't help but laugh as she wiped the tears from her cheeks, "Raktijino is 'bold', K'Tan. But Chech..."

"Chech'tluth," he offered.

"Yes, Chech...tlu..th." she repeated slowly, trying to pronounce it just as K'Tan had.   "It's a bit more than bold. I believe the word 'brutal' is a more fitting description. It has a nice flavor though. I like it...I think,"  She said with a smile then took another long sip of water.

Joint post Hawkeyemeds & Startrekfanatic5

D'Callan gave a big yawn, closed his eyes and stretched his arms just as the turbo lift doors opened. He heard a light "cough", Joseph quickly opened his eyes to see the face of Captain Quinn "oops sorry sir. " he said has to lowered his arms. Quinn smiled and enter the turbolift and stood next to Joseph. "transporter room" Quinn said with a snap.

Joseph turned to the Captain "I've got the Bowers report sir" Quinn smiled at D'Callan as he handed him the padd. He quickly scanned the padd "I'm sure your relieved to have this out of the way Mr. D'Callan."  Nathan said as he continued to read the report. The turbolift stopped as another crewmen entered and nodded to D'Callan and Quinn. Quinn continued " I agree with your suggestion that Mr. Bowers will need some sessions with the Councilor. Be sure to inform the Mr. Margon of his new client." Joseph took the padd back from Quinn "No worries sir...Oh before you head off for shore leave. I've found a rather enthusiastic young ensign. A ferengi pilot. He's eager to transfer to the Arabella. I said I'd mention it to you."

Quinn smiled again. "Well we are beginning to staff back up, do you have his record." D'Callan pressed a few buttons on the padd and handed it back to Nathan. Quinn studied the padd. "Hmmm he's had a very... colorful background. But with your recommendation I'm sure he'll make a find addition to our crew. Please run this pass Lt. Commander James, I've been looking forward to getting down to the planet."

Just then the turbolift came to a stop and the doors opened, "This is my stop" Quinn said as he stepped out into the corridor.  Just as the doors shut D'Callan saw Nicholas Took carrying several traveling bags join the Captain. Joseph smiled and tapped his com badge, "D'Callan to James.. I would like to speak with you sir at your earliest convenience"

Lieutenant Commander James sat at his desk and completed transmitting his reports to Quinn's computer. He had made several recommendations for the improvement of the ship and summaries of the meeting that he had conducted. Initial reports from the corps of engineers had provided him more information on the classified work that they were doing in the secondary warp corp. Upon arriving at the station, both Aeric and Quinn had been briefed on Project Eagle and it's placement on the Arabella. With all of the work going on with the ship and the recovery of the crew, the SCE were able to perform the tasks that they needed to complete with little interruption.

Aeric took the last sip of his water and started to rise when his comm badge chimed.

"D'Callan to James.. I would like to speak with you sir at your earliest convenience."

Aeric sat his mug down. With Quinn leaving to go planet-side, he would be handling the ship business that would normally be reserved for the captain, but it was obvious that Quinn needed a break. "James here. It just so happens that I can meet with you now. Where would you like to meet Joseph?"

Galdar walked across Ops, holding himself as erect as his physiology would permit. At times like this he was uniquely aware of the differences between himself and most of the rest of his starfleet comrades. It wasn't that anyone would ever dream of highlighting species differences but Galdar felt it anyway. He laid it at the door of his self imposed exile rather than any personal insecurity, but he was aware of the risks of such self analysis and diagnosis. There was no doubt a good task for an experienced counsellor here if ever Galdar chose to seek one out.

He paused at the door to the Commander's office and looked around, taking in the buzz of activity him and the control plots depicting the local region of space. Despite his discomfort with crew in large numbers, he felt at home here and had always looked forward to getting an Ops shift one day. In the light of what he was about to do, that would probably not now happen.

He tapped the control at the side of the door and waited.

"Come" came the muffled voice from inside. The doors slid apart.

Galdar entered to see the Commander returning to his desk from the direction of the replicator, the steaming mug in his hand confirming his departure point.

"Yes Ensign?"

"Sir..." Galdar breathed deeply and attempted to settle himself. "Sir, I wanted to have a private word."

Commander Radrek sat at the desk and motioned Galdar towards one of his few chairs. Not entirely in line with protocol, it somehow seemed appropriate for a 'private word'. When Galdar remained silent, Radrek raised an eyebrow and regarded him quietly.

"Sir, I want to inform you that I am looking to apply for a transfer to the Arabella. I'd like to try and achieve that while she's still docked."

The Vulcan steepled his fingers and regarded the young Ferengi. "Go on."

Galdar hesitated. "Sir, this station has a very capable flight crew and over the last four months I've come to know and respect many of them. In that time, however, the opportunity to fly has not been all that I had hoped for."

A command officer of any other species would have smiled at this. Radrek simply looked impassively at the junior officer. The young Ferengi would be neither the first nor last pilot to complain of insufficient flight time. Radrek himself had expressed similar concerns to one of his first commanders although he had been entirely logical in his assessment of that situation. He was sure that the same could not be said of the Ferengi before him.

"Ensign, while I can understand your stated dissatisfaction with the position you hold, I do not think that you have fully considered the implications of what you are suggesting. The Arabella is a small command, while this station is large. Logic suggests that a young officer in your position will stand to gain more experience by staying on the station than by transferring to a ship."

"Sir", Galdar responded, "I have considered all that you are saying and I accept that there are risks implicit in what I am requesting but risk is part of the game... and I intend to play it for all it's worth."

"Ah, the 143rd Rule of Acquisition", the commander sat back as he said this.

"Sir?" asked Galdar, confused.

"You might remember the 79th rule, Ensign". On any other face, the expression that accompanied this statement would have been described as a smirk.

"Beware of the Vulcan greed for knowledge." Galdar laughed as he quoted this and found that it acted as a release for some of the tension he'd been feeling.

JOINT POST BY JUSTX AND HAWKEYEMEDS

"James here. It just so happens that I can meet with you now. Where would you like to meet Joseph?"

D'Callan thought for a moment and then replied back to the XO

"I'll meet you in the quieter part of the Afterburner, i was aiming to get some food down me before i leave for shore leave"

"On my way"

Joseph walked  out of the turbo lift and straight into the Afterburner, it was fairly quiet so getting a table by the viewport windows was easy. He signalled to the barman who understood Josephs request. Sitting facing the glittering stars Joseph put his PADD down and stretched out making a few cracking sounds as he did. The barman came to the table and placed the glass tumbler down in front oh him.

"Can you get me Aeric Jame's usual please oh and two menu's"

The barman nodded and headed back for the orders. A seat pulled out as Aeric joined Joseph.

"I've got you your usual and a couple of menu's"

Aeric smiled "So what can i do for you Joseph?"

Joseph picked up the PADD and glided his fingers over the panel. "I saw Captain Quinn earlier and gave him my report on Ensign Bowers. I also mentioned to  him about a young pilot I met on the station. eager chap, a Ferenghi as well"

Aeric raised an eye brow as Joseph handed him the PADD. "A Ferenghi aye. Well we've got a good selection of races on this ship so a Ferenghi would fit in well. He's had a colourfull time hasn't he. Looks like he's a bit eager to get off the station"

Joseph lent out of the way as the barman put Aerics drinks down and the menu. "Mate I'll have a steak, cooked blue from room temperature"

Aeric also ignored the menu "Fish of the day thank you"

Putting the PADD down Aeric lent back. "OK, lets give him a trial. I'll do the red tape but can i leave you in charge of bringing him over, once you have had your shore leave of course"

D'Callan nodded and raised his glass to the XO who did the same in reply.

"Joseph have you thought anymore about the team building exercise we talked about during our last meeting"

D'Callan laughed. "Sir I have only just sat down since last talking to you, bar a little snooze. The Bowers investigation took a while"

"Yes I read that"

"Then Bowers got him self into the brig on the station so i had to bring him back"

"Yes I heard about that"

"And then we had a new security crewman come aboard who fancies himself as a bit of handfull"

"Yes I saw him come aboard"

Joseph looked at Aeric. "Eyes everywhere aye"

The two men laughed and Joseph continued. "It would be good to get all the personnel together in a meeting to discuss these games. As the Captain as rightly taken some extended shore leave it would be fantastic if we could get the games going and then have the crew bonded together for the Captains return"

Aeric pondered for a second and then shook his head in agreement.

"Excellent. Now that's sorted and I can leave you with obtaining Ensign Galdar I'll be enjoying this fish dish even more, whenever it arrives.

Dr. Peterson slowly finished packing his luggage only having realized recently, the heavy burden he carried regarding his past. He had become so blinded by hate for the Borg, that it had started to affect his life in far reaching ways.

Casey could not believe he had carried the pain of the loss of his family for so long and had come to realize that he could not run from his personal pain any longer. He had decided that after some much needed rest he would recommit himself to his future and stop dwelling on the past as he zipped up his luggage.

Myella called out to her husband, " Are You almost ready Dear?" "Almost  he responded, their is just one more thing I have to do.

Casey went over to his computer terminal and sent Margon a Message requesting a counselling session for when he and his wife returned from shoreleave.

He smiled as he thought to himself, "Today is the beginning of the rest of my life" as he walked out of his quarters arm in arm with his wife.

As the Commander's office doors hissed shut behind him, Galdar sighed. The interview was finished and he'd received Commander Radrek's blessing on his transfer application. It had actually been easier then he'd expected since, with his logic rejected, the Vulcan had not resorted to any sort of emotional appeal in order to retain the young Ferengi. Rather, the time had been spent discussing the differences in the service experiences to be had on a starship over those of a Starbase.

At one point, Galdar would almost have described the Commander's tones as 'wistful' as he'd recounted some of his service aboard various vessels over the many years of his career.

In all, the experience had been almost pleasant for Galdar, a fact which surprised him. He obviously didn't know the Commander well but he'd expected much more of a confrontation.

As he headed for the turbolift, he started to compose his transfer request in his head but broke off abruptly as he realised what he ought to do first.

"Deck 6, accommodation area", he called as the lift doors closed.

"The Arabella was made from an old ship young man. The remains of the USS Lemures was recycled in making this ship"

Micheal shifted slightly away from the old man who continued to speak.

"Ah the Lemures. Those poor souls"

"What happened?" asked Micheal.

The old man looked at him from the corner of his eye. "A containment leak or something like that exploded near the core. Before anyone knew about it a wind so powerfull flew through the ship like the devils own whistle"

Micheal looked around and then back at the old man "Did no one survive?"

"No-one. They felt the pain, the agony, the bodies ripped apart one by one. They say you can hear the screams on part of your ship. It's cursed young man. CURSED"

Michael stood up "I think I've heard enough of this nonsense"

"You'll see young man, you'll see. Ha ha ha"

Leaving the cackling old caretaker Michael headed up to meet some of the other crew, looking behind him he didn't notice one of the Commanders in his way and bumped straight into him.

"Easy ensign are you in a rush?"

"Sorry, sorry Sir, I was just wondering where that old man had gone"

The Commander looked down at him. "Old man? Is he a guest?"

Michael looked up at the Commander. "No he's the caretaker here, he was sitting on a iron bench"

The Commander looked over at a plastic glass seating area "Ensign, there is no iron bench and the last caretaker who was old died ten years ago"

Michael looked shocked and began to slur his words "But he mentioned USS Lemures, he said Lemures was, was destroyed"

The Commander smiled. "Lemures is Latin for Ghosts Ensign" He patted him on the shoulder and walked away leaving Micheal standing there with his mouth open.

Like a heart racing from exertion, Aeric felt the pulse of the EPS conduits through his link to the Arabella. With his mind connected to the ship, he could feel and caress that data that flowed through the information link. Every damaged system tingled like an unhealed wound and the workers scurrying about the vessel served well as her immune system.

He was a part of this ship and she a part of him. Although she wasn't the Aurora, he had been there for her conception and the pangs of her birth. He knew how the ship felt when she was whole and now she was getting closer. Aeric submerged his consciousness deeper within the ship, becoming one with the programs within her computer core. Organic intuition danced with sensors and diagnostic sofware to paint a picture of the vessel's health in his mind's eye.

You'll be whole soon, he thought to the ship as his mind brushed against the new reclassified secondary warp core section where the SCE finalized their work.
 

Galdar pressed the chime on the door of Nicholas Andrews' quarters.

He'd known the Lieutenant almost from the day he'd arrived aboard Starbase 416 and if there was anyone he thought of as a friend, it was Nick. Their relationship was still more duty based than social but it was as close to friendship as he'd come since entering Starfleet and he valued it on that basis.

He pressed the chime again, a little surprised to have received no response. Nick and he ran different shifts but they usually managed to sync up for a chat at about this time before Nick went back out. He could have called the Lieutenant on the comm system but he always felt that to be a somewhat inappropriate approach for matters such as this. Face-to-face was always a Ferengi preference. Still, he'd fall back on his com badge if he didn't get an answer soon.

Cutting off the thought, the door opened in front of him.

"Yeah?" Nick looked a little haggard as he stood in the doorway, an impression reinforced by the somewhat untidy state of his quarters. He wasn't the neatest person at the best of times so Galdar was pleased they had never had to share quarters, but this looked a little unnatural, even for him.

"Nick, have you got a minute? I've made a decision and I need to tell you about it."

The linseed oil slowly ran down the delicate carved willow. The rag looked unkempt but it had been a trusty servant to the wood for many years. Working in slow gentle circles the rag smoothed the oil into the willow and as the work continued the wood began to shine. A good twenty minutes went by until the whole cricket bat was finished. Joseph held it up and looked down the flat surface, a gentle curve on the edges made the bat look elegant, flipping it over to the other side the light raised triangular carving looked as sharp as a Captains trouser crease.
Pulling his yellow and gold Australian cricket shirt on he paused to look at himself in the mirror. "Shane Warne would have been proud"

His backpack, slightly battered and worn carried several leather cricket balls, two sets of wickets with bails and a six pack of ice cased beer. Putting his bat under his arm he left his quarters and headed to the docking bay so he could get some fresh food for his trip. It didn't take long to get onto the station deck, he didn't want to be here long, he wanted the smell of the planet down below and to be able to play some of his favourite game.

Joint post by Wraith1701 and Jen

The drone of multiple conversations enveloped them as they ate. Ryla still felt a little buzzed from her experimental sip of the stiff drink, but it was beginning wane with each bite of the rich food K'Tan had ordered for them. "What was it like?" she asked before a bite of tlhatlh.

"What was what like?" replied K'Tan.

He waited for her to answer as she chewed the peppery leaf and washed it down with another sip of water, "growing up in a Klingon family. You spoke fondly of your mother...what is she like?"

K'Tan took a long, slow pull of his drink, then carefully returned the mug to the table.  "She is a strong woman; very firm, but with a bit of a soft spot for the underdog.  Her family has strong ties to the Defense Force, and her father wanted her to carry on the family tradition.  Instead, she chose to raise a family with my father.  She always used to say, 'A warrior isn't born; a warrior is painstakingly crafted, like a perfectly balanced bat'leth.  The forging of that blade begins in the home.'  I guess she decided that she could best protect the Empire by creating the next generation of warriors."  The hint of a distant, bittersweet smile lit K'Tan's face.  "And she is probably the wisest person that I know."

Ryla smiled, "she sounds like a noble woman."

"She is. She gives great advice.  You asked about my scar earlier.  If I'd listened to her back then, I wouldn't have this mark.  It serves as a reminder to me, to never think that I've grown to the point where I can't learn from others."

K'Tan grabbed a few leaves of tlhatlh, wrapped them around a piece of zilm'kach, and dipped it into the bowl of grapok sauce.  "Are you familiar with the word  'QuchHa'? "     

Ryla shook her head, "no."

K'Tan nodded.  "That's understandable; it's something of a taboo subject among Klingons; something that is rarely spoken of among outsiders."  He gazed at the Trill doctor.  "I have to ask you not to repeat what I'm about to tell you to anyone else. Klingons are a proud people, and airing out dirty laundry can be more damaging than you'd imagine."

Ryla slowly set her water down. As a physician she was well versed in maintaining confidentiality—his secret was safe with her. "Of course," she replied.

He paused as though mentally steeling himself.   "QuchHa translates roughly as 'The Unhappy Ones'.  It refers to an oppressed class in Klingon society, A group who are looked down on by many as being, in many ways, less than slaves."

"Are they an alien subject race of the Empire?"

"No.  They are Klingon.  But Klingons afflicted with a genetic abnormality which makes them look more or less like Humans.  The forehead ridges are either very faint, or nonexistent, and most are physically frail by Klingon standards.  They were once fairly numerous, and some were even allowed to serve along with non-afflicted Klingons in the defense force.  But over the last hundred years, their numbers have diminished.  Many died trying to gain honor through suicide missions for the Empire, others fled the Empire in shame."  K'Tan gave a mirthless smile.  "A fortunate few were even able to reverse the condition, and go on to achieve glory.  But for the most part, the remaining QuchHa' are a shrinking minority, and often face discrimination from many of the more traditional Klingon families."

K'Tan took another small sip of his drink.  "When I was a child, many assumed that I was QuchHa.  It was easier for them to accept me as a genetically inferior Klingon than to imagine that a frail human was living among them."

A far away look came into K'Tan's eye.  "Which brings me to a young woman named K'Lara.  She was a magnificent woman, small in stature, but with the heart of a warrior.  Her House was one of the oldest in the Empire; some said that the line went all the way back to the first Emperor.  K'Lara was an only child, and her mother was a bit controlling.  As the protector of her House's honor, she was very concerned about her Family's image.  So you can imagine how scandalized she was to discover that her daughter was being courted by someone from a lesser house, especially when that someone was QuchHa'."

"You were in love with her..." Ryla noticed a flicker of pain in his eyes following her comment—the Trill suddenly felt a wave of guilt. She knew all too well how difficult it was to remember painful events of the past.  "I'm sorry, K'Tan...You don't have to tell me anymore."

He smiled, grateful for Ryla's empathy.  But part of him ached to get the story off of his chest.  Besides, the floodgates had already been opened.  He steepled his fingers before him on the table, and gazed into the Trill's eyes. "I appreciate your understanding.  But I want to share this."

joint post by Jen and wraith1701


K'Tan sighed, pausing to collect his thoughts, then continued.  "My mother warned me that I was courting trouble, and I was too stubborn to listen.  But my stubbornness paled in comparison to K'Lara's.  She was very strong-willed; even by Klingon standards.  The more her mother tried to keep us apart, the more determined she became to be with me.  In the end, she sought to formally challenge her mother's desires by involving the family Gin'tak.  This is no small matter."

K'Tan took a sip of water before continuing. " The Gin'tak is a family adviser employed by many of the Great Houses.  In a way, he is the protector of the family honor.  The Gin'tak settles disputes within a household before they can escalate to the point bringing down the House.  You have to understand; with her mother disapproving of our relationship, K'Lara stood to loose her family name if she continued to pursue it.  She felt the Gin'tak would decide in her favor, forcing her mother to yield."

"She was wrong.  The Gin'tak decided that her mother was right, and that the honorable thing for K'Lara to do was to make her personal concerns secondary to the needs of her House.  She had no choice but to submit."

"It was weeks before I heard from her again.  Her comm message was frantic and disjointed, and when I heard the fervor in her voice, I knew that things would not end well.  She said that if I truly loved her, I would get my bat'leth and meet her at the Jwhe'pe swamp that evening.  Together, we would embrace our destiny as one."

"My blood froze when I heard this.  The swamps are home to the most ferocious predator on Askive, a foul abomination that is one of the few nonsentient creatures in the universe that kills not for food or defense, but out of sheer, sadistic joy.  The swamps are often littered with the decomposing remains of the creatures it has killed and left to rot." 

K'Tan gave an involuntary shiver, and his voice dropped to a whisper.  "And it can not be killed!  Disruptors, blades, poisons... they only feed its rage.  To stand against it is suicide."

"After leaving a note for my family, I raced after her.  My only desire was to convince her that I was not worthy; I felt that if I could somehow turn her against me, she would abandon her death-wish.  When I got to the swamp, she had already engaged the beast.  It was horrible.  The sight of its malformed, filth-slimed hide still haunts my dreams, as does the rotten-corpse smell.  And its horrible scream... the twisted, insanely gleeful keening...I cannot describe it.  If evil has a sound, then I surely heard it that night."

"I've never been as afraid as I was then.  But the sight of her there, hip-deep in the muck, struggling with that foul... thing.. It's like my body fought a battle with my mind, and my mind lost.  Before I knew it, I was there with her.  For an insane moment, amid all of the slashing and hacking, I had the gall to think that we might even overcome the beast.  I must have been blinded by my overconfidence, because the next thing I saw was one of its blackened, rotting claws slashing towards my face.  After that, everything is a nightmarish blur.  I remember being thrown onto the firmer mud surrounding the swamp, and I remember K'Lara's screams.."

K'Tan's vision blurred.  He touched his face to discover tears streaming down his cheeks.  He shook his head, and took a long, hitching breath.  With a hurculean effort, he managed to reassert a modicum of control over himself.  "I later awoke in my own bed."  His hand traced the scar on his face.  "And I had this.  My mother and brother said that they had found my note and followed my trail.  They found me unconscious at the swamp, and managed to distract the beast long enough to drag me to safety.  They found no trace of K'Lara."

Ryla was speechless. She didn't know much about Klingon culture, but she suspected that words of sympathy would not offer him much comfort. But it wasn't in her nature to ignore him; the Trill instinctively reached for his hand.

K'Tan smiled appreciatively at Ryla's gesture.  Her touch was like a soothing balm on an old wound, and he felt as though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.  Without thinking, he laid a hand atop hers. Looking into her gentle eyes, he felt something inside of him melting, and was overcome by a desperate need to know everything he could about her.

"I appreciate you taking the time to listen, but I didn't mean to monopolize the conversation.  I've been wondering; what made you decide to join Starfleet?"

Joint post by Wraith1701 and Jen

Ryla instantly felt a flitting of her heart, followed by a surge of heat that colored her cheeks. She smiled at K'Tan and looked down at the hand he had moved to cover her own.  Despite the voice of protest echoing within her, she slowly retracted her hand from his.  Friends first, she told her inner dissenter.

Noting the doctor's discomfort, he mentally chided himself.  She's been through a lot.  Slow down.  He folded his hands before him and found himself getting lost in her eyes.  Such beautiful eyes...

"Ahaa...well...I...I wanted adventure."  She paused briefly, struggling to pull herself from the gravity of his gaze. The Trill was surprised at how anxious she felt. It was an alien sensation; something she'd never experienced while joined to Drett.

Ryla took a sip of water and placed her hands in her lap, "I came from a long line of physicians, but the Emarrin family typically stays close to home. I guess you could say I'm the exception to the rule."  She glanced up to recall a memory, "my sisters use to insist that I was adopted by freighter pilots. As soon as I had the ability to do so, I ran a DNA test to verify their claims. In fact I conducted three of them just to make sure." She laughed, "each result was conclusive: they had been teasing their little sister for years and I believed every word."

Ryla returned her gaze to K'Tan.  "...I wanted adventure," she repeated pensively as she absently moved her fingers into a small pocket in her dress. The Trill paused a moment as she warily considered her next words. After a short gap in the conversation, she continued, "I should have thanked you for giving this to me." Ryla presented him with the small stone talisman, which now rested in the palm of her hand. "It has helped me through some very challenging times. I translated the runes—it's a prayer of healing. I don't go anywhere without it."

K'Tan felt his heart quicken, pleasantly surprised by the sight of the talisman.  The fact that she still carried it made him feel a fleeting yet comforting sense of closeness to her.

"...I want to apologize for the way I spoke to you, the day you gave this to me. I shouldn't have been so inconsiderate. I... wasn't myself." .

He smiled warmly, and replied, "You have nothing to apologize for.  The last few months have been trying for everyone... so much loss and death... I'm just grateful for a chance to spend time with you now."

K'Tan's attention was drawn to the bar at the rear of the restaurant.  There, among the drinking patrons, he thought he caught a glimpse of a familiar face- the drunken Klingon from earlier that day.  He silently cursed to himself.  Every moment he got to spend with Ryla felt like a bit of treasure, and he didn't want to risk losing it through a confrontation with some drunken, would-be assassin.  He pushed his chair back slightly from the table.  "Would you like to join me for a walk?  I'd hate to spend too much of our shore leave cooped up in here.  And I noticed some well maintained garden areas on the promenade."

In the doorway to his quarters, Andrews nodded and stood aside, gesturing Ensign Galdar vaguely into the living space. He watched impassively as the Ferengi stepped over the threshold and moved to the indicated seat, almost unconsciously picking up the uniform jacket slung carelessly across the back of it.

Idly folding the clothing in his hands, Galdar sat.

"Nick, I'm looking for a transfer to the Arabella" he announced, without any sort of preamble. "I thought I'd let you know before I got too far into the process...and before you found out by other means. The rumour mill has been particularly effective recently."

He grinned at this, having already relayed some of his conversation on the Arabella's 'Borg Incident' to the Lieutenant. With a wan smile his only response, Nick moved to the replicator and turned to order a drink.

"Tarkalean tea"

As he waited, Galdar looked for somewhere to put the uniform in his hands. Leaning over, he placed the clothing on the small table by the desk, knocking something off the edge as he did so. Leaning further, he retrieved a com badge from the floor. About to place it back on the table he was surprised to see another almost hidden from view by the clothing he'd just put down. Who needed two com badges?

Both badges suddenly chirped but the voice that followed came only from the device on the table, "Ops to Lieutenant Andrews".

Galdar turned to see Andrews looking in his direction, scooped up the active badge and gently threw it across the room.

"Here, Sir", the Lieutenant announced as he caught it, left handed.

While Andrews was talking, Galdar returned his attention to the second badge, still in his hand and tapped it experimentally. Nothing.

"On my way. Out", Andrews announcement cut across his concentration and snapped him back to the present as the Lieutenant moved to the mirror and started to try and arrange his hair.

"Looks like we need to table this conversation for another time," Andrews announced. "I've got to go fly a ferry mission to the Argiolas system. Something about warp plasma and a damaged starship."

Galdar nodded and handed him his newly folded uniform jacket with another smile.

Andrews grinned back. "Hey, don't let my duty stop you tidying the place!"

Joint post by Jen and Just X

Oona James moved quietly about the decks of the Arabella like a ghost, phased and cloaked from all detection. While she had intended on returning to her ship, a part of her wanted to know more about the place that her husband called home. She was a quiet observer, like most of her people, but the desire to be unobserved ended when she saw the woman that her husband said was no longer on the ship. It wasn't that she was on the ship, it was that she also looked quite pregnant. Was Aeric attempting to hide an indiscretion from her?

Following the woman she knew to be Sevryll onto the turbolift, Oona disengaged her personal cloak.

"Hello," Oona said as she appeared from thin air.

Sevryll's response was not one that she expected from a Vulcan. The woman had obviously been startled, for she had reflexively backed against the wall.

She raised her hand cautiously to show that she was unarmed before responding, "My name is Oona, I'm Aeric's wife. He told me that you were not on the ship but when I saw you, I decided that I needed to speak with you."

The Vulcan continued to maintain a good distance from the strange woman, "How did you do that? Better yet...why? Typically when one sneaks about as you have, they are intent upon sabotage. I should call security..."

"Security is unnecessary. I intend no harm. Had I, would have bothered showing myself to you?" She said softly and smiled to the pregnant woman. "My people use masking technologies to keep us out of galactic politics. We are a private people, but explorers none the less. I would not have bothered you, but I really wanted to meet you in person. Aeric has spoken very highly of you and Aria."

Sevryll scanned the woman's thoughts and found that she was telling the truth. She relaxed slightly as she turned to face the door, "You have mistaken me for the Commander."

Oona's brows raised in both shock and curiosity, "You're not Sevryll? I know that I have met few Vulcans, but Aeric's mental picture of her if identical to you. Are you her twin?"

"The Commander has no twin." Sevryll was reluctant to share a vast amount of information with the stranger. " We share the same name and appearance, but that is all.... Deck 2."

"You share the same name and appearance?" Oona asked quizzically looked from the woman's face to her belly before taking a deep breath. "Do you both also share a close connection with my husband?"

Oona couldn't understand why the woman was being so evasive ... unless there was something to hide.

Sevryll gave her a sidelong glance, "As I've said, I only share her name and appearance." She felt the woman's palpable jealousy and quirked an eyebrow, "...I have no 'connections' among these people."

Oona nodded, "So do you know Aeric or Aria?"

As much as she would have enjoyed ended the conversation there, her curiosity refused to let it simply die.

The doors opened and Sevryll stepped out of the lift into the corridor. She sighed at the question and paused to look at the persistent woman, "I do not know your husband and the young woman is a stranger to me as well." The two stood there, staring at one another as crewmembers bustled past them.

Oona's smile brightened as she followed the Sevryll that was not Sevryll, into the corridor. "What about Sairyn or Rory? I'm not trying to pry, but I think it's odd that you don't know many people on this ship."

The Vulcan stopped once again and turned to face Oona, "where I am from, interrogations are conducted with more...skill, for lack of a better term. Will you resort to torture should you fail to obtain the information you desire?"  Oona's blank stare told Sevryll that the woman had failed to interpret her remark as sarcasm. "I am not familiar with any of the individuals you are referring to.  I am merely a passenger on this vessel. The only persons with whom I'm somewhat acquainted, are Captain Quinn and Doctor Peterson."

"I'm not trying to interrogate you. I wish to understand my husband's perspective and it seems that Sevryll, the one that is not you, might have some insights." Oona said.

"...Did you not say that your people value their privacy?" Sevryll coolly replied.

Joint Post by JustX and Jen

"I'm sorry if I came off strongly, it wasn't my intent to offend. It seems that having a complicated marriage has impeded my manners.  Perhaps we should start over," Oona said politely and offered her hand. "I'm Oona."

Sevryll accepted it, "unfortunately, I have had my share of spousal complications. No offense was taken."  She grimaced with discomfort as they continued down the corridor.


"You've had a spouse that was in love with another woman?" Oona asked quizzically and added a polite smile. "What brings you to this ship with no friends or family around?"

"That is a story, which will take more time than I care to explain." She slowed to a hobble before stopping to catch her breath. Sevryll grimaced again then rested her hand on her belly as the infants kicked inside her womb.

"I have more than enough time to listen, but does your child?" Oona replied and allowed her eyes to drift to the pregnant Vulcan's midsection.

Sevryll drew a sharp breath as an acute pain raked her body. Oona took her arm, "let me help you..."

She lead the Vulcan to her quarters and helped her sit, "I'm fine. The pain has past. Thank you for your help."

Oona moved to the replicator and ordered Relan Tea for them both, a Vulcan beverage that she had seen her husband drank on occasion. She handed the pregnant woman one of the cups and took a sip from the other. As much as she might want to see what insights this woman could provide her on her husband, she did not wish harm on Sevryll or her pregnancy.

"How much longer until you are due?" Oona asked softly, but the pain of not being able to start her own family still weighed heavily on her.

"Thank you," said the Vulcan as she took the beverage from Mrs. James. "I am six weeks along, but certain... unusual factors... have accelerated gestation. I could go into labor any day now."

"Unusual factors? That's an understatement," replied Oona in a tone laced with shock.

Sevryll considered the woman a moment. She was the first person, other than Nathanial Quinn, that had engaged her in a conversation lasting longer than five minutes. She knew the woman was fishing for information on Aeric James, but Sevryll was beginning to appreciate her company.

As she took a sip of her tea, the Vulcan determined it was safe to tell her the truth, "I am from a parallel dimension. The rift I crossed affected my pregnancy." She silently measured Oona's reaction before continuing, "The woman you have mistaken me for, has traded places with me. She crossed through the void in search of her son. He was taken by the Borg. The Captain has informed me that he has not heard from her since that time."

Oona's surprise was apparent on her face. "I was unaware of this... Aeric didn't tell me where she went or why. I hope that she is well. As much as I resent Aeric's feelings for her, I don't wish her to come to any harm or to lose her children."

" I believe your husband is caring for her youngest daughter while she is away." Sevryll placed a hand on her belly and glanced up at Oona, " I carry the same infants. It is my desire to see Sevryll's children reunited with her as well."

"I briefly met M'Rynn in Aeric's quarters and I was very taken by the girl." Replied Oona.  "I'm glad that she has Aeric to look after her... I'm sure her mother is too. He'd storm the heavens to protect someone he cares about. She couldn't be in better hands, but it does hurt just a little to watch him with her."

Sevryll nodded. "I understand. "

Oona took a slow breath, "I have longed to start a family with my husband, but we would be fighting the impossible. Physicians from my world have informed me that having Aeric's child is a hopeless venture due to his heritage. It seems that compatible partners are one in a trillion. Unfortunately, the other Sevryll seems to be that one. Of course, I haven't told him of this. I know he wants a son and I would be a fool to tell him that the other woman in his life is the only one who could provide him with that."

"I see... " Sevryll was beginning to understand why Oona had approached her initially.  She knew her guest must have suspected Aeric was responsible for her pregnancy.
"The father of my own children was human. It has been a difficult pregnancy... "

"Human?" Oona mused and allowed sadness to creep into her voice. "While your species isn't as long lived as mine, I would not have suspected your species of mingling with such a short lived race. It must have been hard falling for someone that would be gone all too soon."

"I was not a willing participant...and he died young, in part, because of it," Sevryll interjected.

Oona understood the implications behind the woman's words and found herself wondering if she would not have made the same decisions.

Joint post by Jen and Just X

"I think that perhaps I have been lonelier than I thought I would be. My vessel is a home in the stars, but it is an empty home. Anyone I meet outside of my own people, quickly forget my presence save for Aeric and his extended family. I have been changed by my time with Aeric and my homeworld has not truly felt like a home since I met him." Oona sighed, "enough about my problems, tell me about yourself. Somehow I get the feeling that I'm not the only person that feels lonely in the sea of people that comprise this ship."

"I am accustom to being alone—metaphorically speaking. There are few who can be trusted in my universe. My arrival here was purely accidental, and the Captain is currently searching for a planet to deposit me. Aside from my children, I will be alone there too."

"Why would you force yourself into self imposed exile?" Oona asked. "It's actually quite ironic. I have a home, but none to share it with and you will soon have a family with no place to call home."

"Indeed," replied the Vulcan as she gazed at Oona. "I do not relish the thought of settling somewhere alien...but I have no place among these people."

She wondered of Oona's world and their success at remaining out of galactic politics. The struggle for power had been the catalyst for violence within her own universe. Sevryll was intrigued. How could Oona's world be successful at hiding themselves from those bent on conquest?   "Are your people always veiled in shadow?"

"Yes. We are a culture that values our privacy. We use our technology to stay to ourselves, not spy on the universe at large for some sort of advantage." Oona said. "My people have a biological ability to be quickly forgotten by most species. Our technology has developed to enhance our desires to not be discovered. I honestly don't recall a being outside of my husband and his extended family that has ever pierced our veil of secrecy."

Peace had always been an unobtainable dream for the Vulcan and Oona's world sounded to Sevryll, like the ideal location for she and her children.

"Perhaps I am immune." Sevryll had been a spy for the Cooperative; a Borg like race that assimilated various peoples—integrating their DNA in order to acquire useful attributes. It was possible that in her universe, Oona's planet fell to the Cooperative as well.  She thought of the Trill doctor, known as Ryla. Sevryll informed the Captain that the DNA, belonging to a race that reproduced by reanimating the dead, made her resurrection possible. It was an ability that had given the Cooperative an upper hand during the war with the Empire and Alliance. Sevryll knew this aptitude had been denied to her—only a select few among the Cooperative had this capability. Thanks to the assimilation of the Betazoid people, her telepathic skills were enhanced beyond the ability of all Vulcans. It was a trait bestowed upon her by the Cooperative to fulfill her duty as an embedded spy. She had other abilities as well...most of which she had yet to discover.

"I could verify your resistance on my ship. We isolated the gene that provides Aeric with protection. I know that M'Rynn has that defense now. If you are immune, that would be a blessing. I find having to constantly revisit conversations with people tedious at times." Oona said and offered her smile again. "It would be nice to have another adult to speak with and actually have them recall the conversation. Perhaps we might be able to help each other."

Sevryll quirked a brow... she was surprised that Oona would want to aid her.  "That is generous of you, but.... there something you want in exchange." She resisted the urge to scan the woman's thoughts. The Vulcan would give her the opportunity to verbalize her proposal.

Oona gave the woman a serious look. "I need to know if I am wasting my time trying to repair things with my husband.  I would simply like to know if he loves her more. I have never had the chance to see how he reacts to her presence and I would love to see and know how he responds to simply seeing her.... It will help me decided what to do."

Sevryll had decades worth of experience in espionage—determining the affiliations and turning others through various... methods. But that was all behind her now. Oona's scheme was far from nefarious, but Sevryll was hesitant to deceive the oblivious husband.  "May I consider your request?"

Oona nodded in agreement, "Yes, but I want you to know that it's not a requirement for passage. Whatever you choose, that will not retract my offer to give you a place aboard my ship."

In his quarters, Galdar looked at the silent Starfleet insignia in his hand. With Andrews off the station, what he was about to do should go undetected.

He tapped his com badge.

"Galdar to Andrews"

The badge in front of him chirped but did not relay his message. He hadn't expected it to as it hadn't on any of the previous five times he'd tried. In the same way, it didn't seem capable of transmitting anything at all

A com badge that didn't handle audio was nothing more than a receiver and the only point of a receiver is to receive things. Why anyone would want a com badge with those capabilities, however, was a question he couldn't answer.

At his office desk, Aeric looked over the latest additions to the shuttle schematic that he had been considering. With the Aurora away, he needed to come up with a suitable replacement. He mind and fingers were also at work redesigning and repairing the orb that he had once given Dennis. It had been operational for days, but a recent burst of insight had given him new ideas on making it better.

On the smooth sleek desk rested a PADD that still displayed the latest communication from the star base. His idea at a ship-wide game had somehow blossomed into a full competition with other ships and even those aboard the star base considering competing. What once was a simple idea had mutated into a full out contest that Aeric had been more than happy to allow the star base personnel to host and run the event.

With the ship under repairs and the staff reduced to a skeleton crew to manage the many shore leave requests, Aeric had noticed the emptiness and absence that the lack of familiar faces caused. He also couldn't help but notice the missing people in his life.

Aeric rose from his desk with the spherical device in hand and headed for his quarters. It was more than time for M'Rynn to have her protector back in her life.

Joseph didn't like space stations, they were cold and grey. Stale air filled his lungs and he winced at the thought of having to work here. Being brought up in the sunny climate of Australia he was used to the feel of the sun, the crisp fresh air of the woodland forest, the majestic sight of the blue mountains but here, here was just grey. Still he needed some provisions for his well earned shore leave and here was the only place he could obtain it. Searching around he noticed a blur in the corner of his eye.

"What the..."

The blur vanished, he could have sworn he had seen a man.

"Damn stale air"

Seeing a small  shop he headed to it and took out his list.

On deck 5 sat the Arabella's gym. It was a tidy little area, making efficient use of limited space. Variable weight machines, isometric units, and calisthenic aides... even a sparring ring configured for Anbo-Jitsu.

What it didn't have, was a running track. For that, there were the holodecks, where you could conjure anything your little heart could desire.

But those were down for maintenance.

...And so Ensign Darius Shane barked "Make a hole!" for about the thousandth time today. His shift was hours over and he had a long bit of downtime till the next one, so he decided to go for a run.

Passing open maintenance tubes, access panels, and vaulting over an oblivious starbase engineer whose prone body stuck out across most of the hall as they worked unseen in some crawlspace. Darius tried to get his mind past the last two sticking points. First, he had been ordered upon settling in to check in with the ship's Counselor. Of course, after what the crew of the Arabella had been through, the ship's Counselor was the only man more harried than the repair crew. That's why he'd not done it yet. Really. That was why. Yep, not evading anything, no sir.

The other, was almost more problematical. The rest of the security department had been a bit... quiet. Maybe it was Darius filling dead-man's shoes, maybe it was the fact that at 35, he was the oldest ensign any of them probably ever seen.
Maybe it was his file.

The boss had mentioned it when he'd first checked in. Maybe it had made the rounds. That was an unpleasant thought. He could just imagine what it sounded like to someone who didn't have D'Callan's clearances to peer under some of the classified parts. 'Hi fellas! I'm a trained killer who wound up here as a result of spacing a cargo bay full of...NO!' he barked the last thought.

Crap, maybe he should see Margon anyway.

As for the rest of the Security staff, he had a plan. He had a cunning plan. Actually, it was his usual plan for a new posting. Invite everyone to an actual home-cooked MEAL. Of course, the dang holodecks being down would seriously cramp it... wait a sec. Were ALL the holodeck systems down? Hadn't he read in the specs that the Arabella's phaser range used holodeck technology? Yeah, but converting a phaser range into a hologramatic kitchen seemed oddly, sacrilegious somehow. He'd have to book time in one of the starbase's suites instead.

Speaking of, he'd need ingredients. All right, time to hit the showers and go shopping.

joint post by Jen and wraith1701


After leaving the restaurant, K'Tan and Ryla headed towards the vast, open space dominating the core of the station's habitat zone.  A series of large, terraced areas adorned the cavernous walls, and were home to thousands of trees, flowers, and plant-analogues from hundreds of worlds.  The climate controlled air was pregnant with the fragrance of blooming flowers, blended with the invigorating, piney scent of the robust trees and bushes. Organic looking walkways, many of which were suspended in the air, connected the islands of flora like some titanic, plant-festooned spider's web.  Dozens of pedestrians made their way across the airborne walkways, some pausing to bask in the light and warmth cast by the massive, cylindrical glow tube running vertically through the park area.  Here and there, K'Tan spied more than a few couples ducking behind trees and shrubs to steal furtive kisses.  Blushing self-consciously, he redirected his attention to the path ahead.

As the pair followed the walkway to a quiet, idyllic looking garden terrace, Ryla recounted her recent meeting with Aeric James.  They entered the shade of a towering tree while she described Jame's proposal of creating a new medical ward, with Ryla as its head.  K'Tan looked down at the petite Trill with a grin of vicarious pride.  Thinking back on what he knew of the doctor's skill and insight, her promotion seemed like a logical decision.

"The Head of a new medical division, eh?" he asked.  "You are an incredibly intuitive physician; you were key in unraveling the virus that ended the Tiberius.  I can't think of anyone better suited for the task."

"I'm not sure how I feel about the new responsibility," replied the Trill as she circled the large Menellen Oak.  Though the station remained a comfortable temperature, the oak's leaves had begun to transition from white to blue. It was obvious the tree had been fooled into believing it was winter on J'naii.

Ryla stared up at the canopy as her fingertips absently traced the ribs of the trunk, "On the one hand, I'm eager for the opportunity. On the other, I'm not certain that I'm ready to go back." She shrugged as she rounded the tree and stopped before K'Tan.  "Lieutenant Commander James aggravated me during the meeting. It was intentional— he said he was looking to elicit a spirited response. Before the Borg attack, I probably would have forced a smile and agreed with him." She gazed up at the Terran and frowned, "I seem to have regained my temper since I lost Drett. I'm going to have to watch that in the future."

The sweet smell of chameleon roses wafted in the air.  For a minute, Ryla felt as though they were planet side. Then she heard the warble of a recorded bird emanating from a near by gourd, and the illusion faded. "Nice," she laughed... "So how did your meeting go?"

K'Tan chuckled.  "How did my meeting go?  Well, It's funny that you mention being aggravated by Lt. Commander James.  For a moment there, it almost felt like he was speaking down to me."  K'Tan leaned his back against the gnarled tree trunk and turned to Ryla with a conspiratorial grin.  "Between you, me, and the artificial birds, I felt a fleeting urge to punch him in the face.  But then I realized; he is the acting first officer, and second in command on the ship.  Not to mention that some of the points he brought up made sense.  And I had to remind myself that while an abundance of pride is an essential part of any Klingon officer's skill set, having too large an ego could be detrimental in Starfleet."   His grin took on an impish cast.  "After all; it just wouldn't do to kill a superior officer over a perceived insult."

"True...that may be crossing some sort of line," laughed Ryla.

He gazed contemplatively into the distance.  "Letting my pride get the best of me almost ended my career on several occasions in the past.  I'd like to believe that I've finally put that demon to rest."

Ryla smiled, "He certainly has a way with people.  What irritating things did he say to you?"

"I want to advance my career, and one day have a command of my own," He replied.  "But one can't grow without challenging oneself, and lately, I've felt that serving as chief tactical officer wasn't enough of a challenge.  The team I've developed is quite capable; the department can now practically run itself.  So I approached him with a proposal for expanding my duties to include tactical and operations.  His response hinted that I didn't appreciate the complexity of the ops position, and that I, quote, 'had to know, not guess what my ship is capable of'. "  K'Tan gave a growl of mild disdain.  "As though I were some cadet fresh from the academy.  I've served as operations officer on some of the Empire's finest ships before I joined Starfleet.  I have more than just a passing familiarity with what the position entails."

"To make a long story short, I agreed that It would be best for the ship, and myself, if I focused on one department, at least for now.  Assuming that the Captain approves, I will be leaving tactical and assuming the role of Chief Operations Officer."

"Congratulations," she said with a smile.  "I think the Arabella will benefit greatly from your transition to Ops... It doesn't seem too long ago that you came by sickbay to show me the new pip on your collar. You'll have a ship of your own before you know it."

"Thanks," He answered.  K'Tan was determined to see her encouraging words become a reality.  He just hoped that it would be with Starfleet.

"What do you say we return to the Arabella?" he asked.  "I need to continue my review of the ops department, so that I can hit the ground running once the change become official." 

Ryla glanced up with a small smile.  "Yes, I think it's time to turn in."

"By the way," K'Tan added.  "I hear that there's some type of inter-ship competition in the works."  He grinned.  "It sounds right up my alley.   Are you taking part in it?"

"Competition huh?" she replied.  "I know nothing about it...but it sounds interesting..."

Galdar sat at his duty station in shuttle bay 4 and stared through the panoramic window at the array of craft in front of him. The Tellarite ship was still there and still looked out of place. Apparently it had been impounded on suspicion of smuggling something-or-another but station Security had finished with it two days before having found nothing. Now it was sitting here, disarmed, waiting to be claimed by whoever owned it.

The consoles in front of him were empty and the wall mounted stations on either side were similarly unmanned. There were a few work crews moving about on the hanger deck but with the Arabella still being repaired, many had been seconded to that task. As a result, Galdar found his shuttle bay duty even more tedious a test than normal.

For the last half hour, the Ensign had been toying with the idea of taking a look at the Tellarite ship. Given the vessels security status, it would probably be a stupid thing to do but he was tempted anyway. He'd never seen a ship quite like this and was interested in the sort of control surfaces it employed. He shook his head and dismissed the idea, Maybe he'd have a chance when the owner appeared.

He scratched the back of his head, warm beneath the traditional Ferengi head garment he had adapted to a uniform black. The air was dry to his way of thinking and he was convinced that his skin suffered as a result. It wasn't that he liked the continual downpour that was Ferenginar but a little more humidity in the air would surely do no harm, even to the equipment.

A female voice crackled over the com system, interrupting his reverie. "Ops to shuttle bay 4"

"Sir?" the Ferengi responded.

"You have Lieutenant Andrews inbound with walking wounded from the incident near Argiolas, please prepare to receive him".

"Aye, Sir. Bay out." Galdar called as his hands moved to his panel.

Out in the bay, lights strobed and klaxons sounded as the seal on the bay doors was broken at his command. The forcefield was in place, of course, but care was still required, hence the alarms. Visible through the widening gap between door and bulkhead was the nose of a type nine shuttle with the usual red and gold insignia.

As the entrance opened fully, the shuttle passed through the gap, its deflector shield merging with the protective forcefield, preventing any atmospheric leakage. The whole area shimmered as it was disturbed by the ship's passage, but quickly settled into transparency again once the transit was complete.

The bay doors started to close as the ship settled to the deck and two wounded crewmen in starship duty uniforms emerged from the hatch. They quickly headed to the internal doors of the bay, presumably off to the medical wing. Lieutenant Andrews appeared shortly afterwards, paused to seal the craft behind him then disappeared behind the Tellarite ship.

Galdar watched the point where his friend would appear, thinking about the com receiver still in his pocket, but Andrews didn't come into view. Galdar sat straighter and glared at the Tellarite vessel. Was Nick taking the peek that Galdar had denied himself?

His hand jumped to his com badge to remind the Andrews about the ship's impounded status but he restrained himself. Nick was his friend but he was also his superior officer...and an Ensign didn't get to be a Lieutenant by telling other Lieutenants what they could and couldn't do.

He turned back to his station, muttering to himself. "Ferengi are not responsible for the stupidity of other races."

He recited the 69th Rule of Acquisition just as he'd learned it at his mother's knee but then caught himself and stopped suddenly. He sighed, almost theatrically, at yet another sign of his Ferengi heritage refusing to release its hold on him. The rule wasn't the reason he hadn't contacted Andrews...was it?

It was at least five minutes before Nick Andrews emerged from behind the ship and headed off into the bowels of the Starbase, but Galdar was focused elsewhere by then so completely failed to notice as the Lieutenant glanced up into the control room before slipping away.

"Computer, lights." Lester ordered abruptly.

Having spent a couple of hours laying in his bed trying to rest the Ensign decided to abandon all hope of sleep.

The earlier conversation with his Mother had left him a little disturbed. Lester had hoped that this assignment would give her less opportunity to interfere with his affairs. Breathing slowly, Lester began to organize and categorize his thoughts and emotions in his head.

He had never been close to his mother. As a child he spent most of his time with his Father who from an early age encouraged him to tinker with technology. He never questioned his relationship with his Mother, he didn't know any different and even the death of his Father failed to rekindle it. Unfortunately, Julia Garriss was a formidable force of a woman; an ambitious and determined individual that had put herself before her family many times and it wasn't long before another important assignment became her priority. Even so, their relocation to Vulcan and his enrolment at the Vulcan Science Academy had given him a totally different perspective and opportunities he had never had before. She would check up on him regularly but not really have much interest in his life unless his life decisions were not to her liking. His fondness for the Vulcan way of life was one.

So what does she want now? Lester thought to himself.

"I am in control of my emotions..." he whispered, retrieving a beautifully decorated lamp from his bedside cabinet.

Putting thoughts of his Mother aside and lighting the lamp, Ensign Lester Garriss began to meditate.

JOINT POST BY FEATHERS AND HAWKEYEMEDS

D'Callan checked his backpack and his list. Refreshments, writing pads, PADD complete with jazz music and stories from the early 21st century that amateurs wrote for entertainment. He'd found them in the history archives and downloaded them for free. Happy that he had everything, he headed for the station's shuttle bay ready to travel down and begin his shore leave.

As he walked in he spotted the enthusiastic Ferengi standing by the control panel looking as if he were talking to himself. Using his security training D'Callan slipped up to the Ensign unnoticed, tapped Galdar on the shoulder and made him jump with surprise.

"Who, What," Galdar span round gazing almost wildly at the man in front of him.

D'Callan laughed. "G'day Galdar, feeling jumpy are we"

Galdar relaxed but was obviously surprised to see the Lieutenant Commander so close.

"Sorry Sir, I was concentrating.", he paused, then smiled slyly, "To be honest, with ears like these I'm unused to people being able to creep up behind me."

"Easy Ensign, here take this"

Galdar took the PADD from Joseph and looked at it. He looked up at the officer then returned his attention to the device, reading aloud as if to ensure he understood the content.

"Ensign Galdar, currently attached to Starbase 416, is ordered to report to the USS Arabella in the person of the Acting XO, Lt Commander James, as soon as his current duties permit. His transfer request, having been approved and accepted, is to take immediate effect.

A medical with the ships Doctor is required as soon as convenient after arrival and all new crew members are requested to visit Councillor Margon for assessment and appraisal.

Your liaison in this transfer will be Lt Commander D'Callan, with effect immediately upon his return from shore leave. The position of pilot is to be discussed with the Acting XO on your arrival. Welcome to the crew!

Captain N. J. Quinn,

Officer Commanding, USS Arabella"

Galdar looked up, his broad grin showing off all of his teeth. D'Callan shielded his eyes.

"Strewth mate, you keep smiling like that I'm gonna have to issue sunglasses for all personal. Now, I need transport down to the planet, got a ship handy?"

Ryla allowed K'Tan to walk her back to her quarters and she effectively ended the evening with another handshake, "goodnight," they said in unison after an awkward hesitation. She laughed as his grin spread. "Thank you for the adventurous dinner," she added. Ryla took a small step backward. Her door opened and she paused in the entry, "I had a nice time..."

"As did I," he said—followed by another stretch of uncomfortable silence.

"I'll... see you later then?"

"Yes," he quickly replied.

The Trill said goodnight again then took another step backward and allowed the door to close between them. She smiled to herself as she stood there facing the door's soft gray surface. After a protracted moment she heard the shuffle of K'Tan's boots as he turn and proceed down the corridor.


Despite the late hour, Ryla felt energized and sleep did not come easily. In the recent past, nightmares had stolen her rest...but this evening was different. Every time she closed her eyes she saw him—felt the warmth of his hand on her own and the intensity of his lingering gaze. His stories echoed in her mind: bits of conversation about K'Lara, the outcasts, his mother, Lieutenant Commander James, and their careers. She tossed and turned for hours until she threw back the blankets in a sudden frustrated movement, and headed for the central living space. Ryla stood there in the dark for a while, listening to the hum of the ship, before turning her attention to her computer terminal.  "Maybe the throng of messages I've been ignoring will put me to sleep..."

With a flourish of key commands, she accessed her communiqués and watched each and every message transmitted, with a fresh perspective. Ryla was determined to answer them all, beginning with her mother and father's Joining Day letter. With a sheepish smile, their youngest daughter informed them that she wore the dress they sent the prior year, to a Klingon restaurant. Adding that the restaurant was dark, but was pretty much mud free—her mother would be pleased at hearing that. Ryla closed her communiqué with a fleeting promise to send a photo...later.

D'Callan sat in the small shuttle and looked round for his pilot. Tapping his fingers at a three beat rhythm he looked round and gave a yawn. After waiting for ten minutes he stood up and stretched and just as his bones cracked into place he felt a warm sensation in his right hand side and then an agonising pain shoot through his rib cage. Crying out in pain he grasped his side and his first thought was 'could this pain be from the injuries he received from the last away mission'. He had lied when he got up from the table to fight the Borg and hadn't been talking the hypo spray remedy that Susan Caine had told him to take. Taking a small breath of the stale air he noticed that a sudden iron taste had begun to fill his mouth and as he spat out the saliva it was obvious that some internal bleeding had come back to say an unwelcome hello.

Staggering out of the shuttle craft he looked around the grey, cold souless bay for help but no-one was there. Galdar had left and his expected pilot had not arrived. Cursing D'Callan tapped his com badge.

"D'Callan to Station Medical bay. Emergency help required in shuttle bay........"

D'Callans eyes began to blur and he shook his head. Holding his stomach he coughed again and the black tar like blood spilled out onto the floor. As he hit the floor he managed to keep his eyes opened just as the same blurred figure he saw in the promenade  bent down in front of him.

With the children playing in his quarters, Aeric sat alone in his office, the lights dimmed to the point of a faint glow above. For the last twenty minutes, he had attempted to meditate to regain his center. It was an attempt that ended in total failure. Both his head and heart hurt from his wife's simple request. Her or the Arabella.

His hands moved over the cool surface of the desk while his fingers played a heart wrenching song on imaginary key. With every time change, he suffered some sort of loss or wore a uniform of flesh and memories that would have not been his choice. In this life, it was the uniform of husband. Only seconds after losing his daughter, he found himself in a new life. It was a life that should have made him happy. He found that he had been married for five years to a woman that he loved, but from his perspective, it was a love forever tied to the pain of losing his child.

Being a man that held tight to the ideals of honor, he continued to be married and hoped that the love would replace the pain. He was wrong. The man that he was supposed to be in this time line was someone that his collective experiences could not allow him to be.

Now he had a choice to make. Duty to the wife that he loved but was not in love with, or duty to the family he made on the Arabella and the oaths that he had sworn to Starfleet in so many lives.

Part of him had held on to the hope that things would change again. That the universe would, for the first time, morph into something better than it was. Happily ever after wasn't something he imagined ever finding, but recent events had changed that.

The woman that he was supposed to be madly in love with or the woman that always held his heart? What duty did honor dictate that he follow?

Tears swelled in his eyes and tricked down his face as his fingers played the melancholy tune that only he could hear. In his musings, he had not managed to make the life altering decision required of him, but he had found something that had been long missing in his life.

Hope.

"20 cc's of Hidrozeen. Begin cardio stimulation," called Doctor Burgess as he stepped around the man lying on the table within his infirmary. The patient lurched as a baton was pressed against his bare chest and a surge of energy coursed through his heart. "Call the officer in charge of medical on the Arabella and tell them we have one of their crewmen in surgery." 

"Yes sir," came the crisp reply of his assistant.




Ryla was in a dead run through the corridors aboard Arabella—her blue lab coat flapping in air that rushed around her. It was the first time she had worn it since before the Borg Attack, but that fact had yet to cross her mind. Ryla was focused on getting to the Starbase as quickly as possible. She had been awakened just minutes before by a call from Four Sixteen—Joseph D'Callan was in surgery.

Susan Cain's boots pounded the floor just behind the Assistant Chief Medical Officer. Doctor Drett glanced over her shoulder. "I'm right behind you Ryla!" Shouted the nurse.

As they tore through the passageways headed for the turbolift, the doctor let loose an exasperated breath, "Why didn't I think to beam over?!" She slapped the combadge pinned to her uniform, "Doctor Drett to the bridge! Nurse Caine and I require emergency medical transport to the Starbase Infirmary.  Lieutenant Commander D'Callan has been injured!"

An acknowledgement of her request echoed through the beam as Ryla and Susan were transported, midstride, into the Infirmary. They slid to a stop as their bodies materialized just inside the entry.  "Where is he!?" Susan snapped to the aids manning the floor.

Dr. Peterson had been on shoreleave for only a few hours, but had found it hard to unwind. It was as if he had forgotten how to relax, it had been such along time between vacations that it was a concept that had become foreign to him.

Myella could see that Casey seemed somewhat preoccupied and  asked if everything was OK.

Casey responded, "Yes Dear, it just seems so weird being on vacation as it has been such a long time since I had one.

Myella laughed as she looked at her husband, " Don't worry dear, I am sure that after a few drinks and a couple of days on the beach you will feel just fine."

"You are propably right" Casey responded as they approached the promenade of Starbase 413.

Casey and Myella stopped and looked down at the lower level and watched as the crowds of people scurried by, each going their perspective way unaware of the other people or surroundings around them.

The air was filled with the smells and aromas of various foods and spices from alien cultures waiting to be sampled by those who were curious or adventurous enough.

After watching the crowds for awhile Casey and Myella ventured forward into the starbase until they became like one of those people they had watched moments before. They too became lost in the crowds of the starbase ready to partake of the endless possibilties that this vacation had to offer them.

Joint Post by Hawkeyemeds and Jen

Joseph D'Callan had been stabilized by the time Ryla and Susan were transported aboard the station. Doctor Burgess's description of D'Callan's condition, initially puzzled the Assistant Chief Medical Officer. The internal bleeding could not have been a result of the injuries he sustained on Terross, for the records Ryla examined indicated he had fully healed in the weeks following his surgery.

"He never mentioned any symptoms to me," offered Susan in a nervous whisper. She had been spending a lot of time with Josesph and would have recognized an illness had he been sick. Ryla's gaze moved from the nurse to the patient. She stared down at his face, noting the welts that were rapidly forming on the surface of his skin. A quick tricorder scan failed to identify the cause of the dermal condition.

"Doctor Burgess, have you run a toxicology test?"

"Not yet," he replied in a gravely bass.

"I think he's been poisoned... I'll need to use your lab to verify."

"Of course, but it could be any number of things Doctor Drett. For all we know he just had a bad reaction to a Delvin fluff pastries." Ryla smirked at him. "Okay, so internal bleeding isn't typical of an allergic reaction, but I'm not sure why you would jump to this conclusion so quickly..."

The Trill gestured to the red blotches on D'Callan's face, " I've experienced these before. One of Drett's former hosts died from ingesting a fruit that had a similar result. If I'm right, the test will confirm alkaloid poisoning." She heard Susan gasp and glanced to the nurse.

"So...like I said...it may just be a severe allergic reaction," replied Burgess.

Ryla moved her concerned eyes from the nurse to the white haired Terran, "Except that this fruit came from a plant known as 'Borgia'. It is the Flaxian Assassin's preferred method of termination.  Jaunairim, the woman who died, was the host who preceded me.  Once I was joined to Drett I became obsessed in learning everything I could about the toxin... I want to make absolutely sure that I can rule this out. If we don't run the test first he could die while we beat around the bush looking for simpler diagnosis."

Susan's eyes began to well. "Excuse me Doctor," Ryla said to Burgess then took Caine gently by the arm and lead her to the next room. "Are you okay?"

The nurse nodded slowly as she stared into the room where Joseph lay motionless.

"He's going to be alright, Susan... I promise. But I'm going to need your help. Do you think you can assist me?"

Nurse Caine nodded her head again and drew a shuddering breath. Ryla smiled at the woman, "okay...we've got a lot of work to do. Luckily we have everything we need here to succeed, including a very experienced medical staff. Doctor Burgess has him stabilized, and were going to make sure he says that way. Now, if this test comes back positive, I'm going to need you to alert Lieutenant Dunn and Lieutenant Commander K'Tan. They may want to want to work with the Station security on this."

Two men looked at each other and then back to the scene unfolding before them. Cloaked from view, they moved to the Infirmary's entrance and waited for one of the staff members to leave. They watched as Susan returned to D'Callan's bedside abd Ryla began her tests. The older of the two invisible men slowly shook his head and glanced at his companion who nodded his own in silent dispute.

When Galdar returned to his duty station in shuttle bay 4, he seemed at once both distracted and amused. One other officer was at the main terminal in the control room, but the bay itself was still sterile and quiet. No doubt normality would return once the bulk of the Arabella repairs were complete.

He noticed that the shuttle he'd assigned to transport Lieutenant Commander D'Callan was already back in the bay, looking like it had never moved. The flyer in him understood the drive that must have led the pilot to make the trip in such a short time as to be back already, but as duty Flight Ops Watch Officer, he'd have to make a note of it. He only hoped the Lieutenant Commander had appreciated such a swift journey.

After his meeting with Security Chief D'Callan, Galdar had been summoned to meet his own commanding officer. Commander Radrek had done nothing more than confirm the orders he'd already received but he did it in such a way as to leave Galdar in his current bemused state. He didn't understand the Vulcan relationship with emotion at the best of times but today had really confused him. It wasn't that Radrek was ore emotional than usual, but something in his attitude had come across as almost...fatherly. Galdar blinked as the word struck him. Where did THAT come from? Radrek was nothing like his father, but the description fit, at least in terms that would be understood by a 'normal human family'. Or so he'd read.

Radrek had given him his orders, then sent him on his way with the hope he would find what he sought aboard the starship. "A fatherly blessing", Galdar muttered. For a Vulcan, it appeared that the Commander had hidden emotional depths only hinted at by his hardened exterior.

Mentally shrugging, the Ensign nodded to his colleague and moved to the wall terminal opposite the gantry door. He tapped in a series of commands, his fingers flowing smoothly across the interface, calling up the proposed schedule of Arabella shuttle maintenance. Given that the transfer he hadn't formally applied for had already come through, he now had a double duty to ensure that these tasks were completed as quickly and as efficiently as possible. To that end, he would put a few of his less...formal...contacts on standby in case some difficult to obtain bits and pieces were required.

It was in areas such as this that the Ferengi knew he walked a fine line between duty and background. When he'd left home, he'd foresworn all aspects of Ferengi heritage and that included his business skills and contacts, such as they were. He'd soon discovered, however, that such things still retained their value, even in the creditless Federation society. It had caused him some consternation, but eventually pragmatism had won out over familial anger and Galdar had permitted himself to use all of his skills for the benefit of his new career.

It hadn't aways been straightforward, though. Many of the more exciting parts of his Starfleet record had stemmed from that single, reluctant, decision, but overall it had worked in his favour.

Supply to a mobile platform such as a starship was something he hadn't tried before. It would be more tricky to manage than to a static Starbase, but he was sure something could be arranged. From what he understood, similar practices had been employed by currently serving officers, both Human and Ferengi, during and after the Dominion war. He'd heard that even Commander La Forge of the Enterprise had dabbled with the use of Ferengi supply lines in the somewhat lean times between the war and the fall of the Romulan senate.

Besides, he needed to maintain his grub supply. Obtaining other material at the same time would add little to the difficulty involved.

He walked in between people unnoticed. No one could see him, no one could hear or smell him. He was invisible to everyone except, it appears Joseph D'Callan. Standing in the middle of the promenade he scanned the individuals. At the far end of the busy centre he concentrated on a young Ensign talking to an old man. The Ensign shook his head and walked away from the old man who suddenly burst out laughing and then disappeared. This didn't shock him, in fact he had expected the incident. Pressing some buttons on a panel on his wrist he too left the station, unnoticed.

A brief stopover at the Officer's Mess revealed that Cook was willing to lend Darius the use of his kitchen in exchange for an invite and samples to scan into the ship's replicators.

Darius agreed to both conditions gladly and went over to the Starbase in search of supplies.

The first few food vendors he came across had pretty much standard fare, mostly spices and such too complex to replicate effectively. A few fresh fruits and vegetables and some things he devoutly HOPED were vegetables. Then he found a small, out of the way storefront on a dis-used corner of the shopping promenade. The sign glared something in Klingon, but Darius couldn't read the language.

Stepping closer, he realized he didn't have to. It was a butcher shop. A real, honest-to-Kahless butcher shop. It was amazing how many people in the Federation still ate actual meat. Most folks were content with getting their food from a replicator, which of course, wasn't real meat just a construct. Most of those who, like Darius, shunned the things ate a vegetarian diet. Real meat though, was still culturally important to many people. 

And nobody did real meat like Klingons.

Grinning to himself, Darius stepped inside and instantly revised his menu. He walked out fifteen minutes later with the same smile, a medium-ish small slab of choice roast, a few specific marinade ingredients and a black eye.

Hey, he'd let the shop keeper throw the first punch. It wasn't a fight, it was just earning the right shop there.

He returned to the first place he'd stopped at and added some bean-jelly of a type he'd used before, but could never remember the origin of. It was remarkably similar in concept to tofu from Earth, but the texture was significantly different. When added to the Klingon marinade and left to steep for a few hours, it would taste and behave almost exactly like genuine beef. That way, everybody was covered.

So, ticking it all off mentally he had his roast beef (or at least an analogue to it), potatoes for baking, and fresh greens for a salad. He also had a very, very thin wallet.  Ah well, it was worth it.

Returning to the Arabella, Darius dropped the goodies off at the Mess for storage. He still hadn't taken the time to rig a refrigerator in his quarters yet.

Jobs done, and barely six hours to his next shift. 'Sack time,' he thought. 'But first... ' he tapped his comm badge "Shane to security station."

A very harried voice came back "Go ahead Ensign." Darius didn't recognize the person on the other end, but the tone set off alarm bells.

"I called on other business," he began. "But what's the situation there?"

An exasperated snort greeted this. "You don't know?  D'Callan is down. They think he was poisoned on the Station. Docs are with him now."

"What?!" he reversed course and loped easily back towards the department office on Deck 14. Shift was early. He could sleep when he was dead.

Ryla pitched an uneasy gaze to Doctor Burgess, "It's positive..." The Trill then turned her eyes to the infirmary floor. Through the transparisteel, she could see Susan Caine sitting beside an unconscious Joseph D'Callan.

Bill Burgess grumbled something foul under his breath and folded his arms across a barrel chest. "Poisoned....herrphhhf...Nice catch Doctor."

"I want to move him to the Arabella, as soon as possible. I'm sure security would feel more comfortable having him aboard—it'll be easier to protect him there," said Ryla. She had a million things rolling through her head at that moment, but the thoughts that surfaced more frequently were: who and why.

Protocol demanded a report to the senior staff. Ryla would do so herself, opting to leave Susan at Joseph's bedside. There was no need for further medical intervention on Doctor Peterson's behalf; the station doctor stabilized D'Callan. Sending the report was simply a formality. Now it was just a matter of filtering the poison from Joseph's blood—a task the Trill had already begun.

"He should be fine...as long as security can keep him safe," she drew a breath and looked up at the towering station physician, "May I use your computer terminal to send my report?"

Bill gestured to his desk, "be my guest."

An eddy of shimmering particles coalesced to form three individuals within the ICU of  Sickbay. Ryla and Susan had materialized beside the bed that now held D'Callan; they were back aboard Arabella.

Nurse Banbee approached the doctor with a greeting and presented her with a PADD. At a glance, the medical information contained on the device answered all Ryla's questions about the woman seated on a biobed within the Main Ward: this was not Commander Sevryll.

"He's going to be fine, Susan." She said to Nurse Caine as she left the recovering Chief Of Security to introduce herself to the stranger with a familiar face.

"I'm Doctor Drett." The more distracted Ryla became with work, the more frequent the symbiont's name was subconsciously employed. She placed her medkit beside the woman and removed the tricorder, as her new patient gave her name.

"You know, you're the mirror image of Commander Sevryll," said Ryla.

Weary of hearing of her similarities to the First Officer, the Vulcan simply stared at the petite doctor.

"I'm sorry...I bet you've heard that quite a bit."

With a slight movement, the woman inclined her head in confirmation.

The tricorder soon whirred to life as Ryla opened it to evaluate her condition. After a moment she determined Sevryll was in the very early stages of labor. "Today is the day," she said with a smile as kind as the summers of her Homeworld. She closed the medkit and placed it on a nearby table. "Why don't you lay back and rest for a while? The real labor won't begin for an hour or so. I want you to be prepared for the work ahead," she said as she gently guided Sevryll back on to the table.

Joint post by Jen and Just X

Ryla scanned the woman laying on the bio bed before her, "relax.  Breath..." Sevryll tried to comply....  "there you go. Goooood." The doors to sickbay opened behind them, but Ryla remained focused on the scanner and her patient. "Do you want me to give you something for the pain?"

"Ahaaah..." the Vulcan groaned as an acute twinge seized her— she gave Ryla a curt nod and drew another sharp breath. Nurse Banbee prepared a hypo and administered the drug to Sevryll. She sighed as she rolled her head to look at the man who had been silently watching the ordeal. Ryla glanced up and acknowledged Lieutenant Commander James.

Aeric's eyes blinked rapidly. Seeing the woman who wore Sevryll's face, in labor, had taken him back to that time so long ago.

"Sir?"

A familiar voice pulled him back from a similar event in his past. Lieutenant Commander James whispered in a low voice as if his words could disturb the patient, "I'm fine Doctor. I had come to check on Mr. D'Callan and perhaps discuss the clinic, but I see that you have your hands full... How is she doing?"

Ryla looked over her shoulder at Sevryll as she stepped toward the Acting First Officer.  She gestured to a quieter area of Sickbay and lead Aeric away from her patient. "I think she's in for a difficult delivery. I'm going to let her get as much rest as she can now before the real work begins. Lieutenant Commander D'Callan on the other hand is past the worst of his ordeal and is resting soundly in ICU."

"That's good to hear. I received your report and Security is investigating now. You may be asked a few questions regarding the poison but other than that they should stay out of your hair."

"As for the clinic, we have selected two possible locations," Aeric said and handed the PADD to Ryla, sparing a glance back to the pained Vulcan. "One is on Deck Nine and the other on Deck Three, with the Deck Nine location being the larger of the two. How would you like to get it setup?"

Ryla took the PADD and studied the floor plan briefly. Glancing up she noticed him watching the pregnant woman on the opposite side of the room. "She looks a lot like the Commander doesn't she? I had a similar reaction when I met her this morning."

Aeric nodded softly, "It's hard to see that and not recall a very similar experience. I had to teach myself how to help with the gestation and delivery of a Vulcan with nothing but a database and converted parts of the shuttle we were in. The good part is that I've seen enough alternate versions of people to reduce my confusion. Still, it's hard to not be concerned when she reminds me of my daughter's mother."

Lieutenant Commander James took a slow breath and forced his attention on the face of the Trill doctor, "Floor plans ... you wanted to help come up with the layout right?"

Ryla's curiosity was piqued by his mention of converting parts of a shuttle to deliver a Vulcan child, but his abrupt change of subject told her that the moment for questions had passed. "...Yes, can I take a look at it and get back to you in a couple of days?"

The Vulcan watched the two interacting. Though she could not hear their conversation, she could read their thoughts. Flashes of imagery passed before her mind's eye—a woman in labor on a remote moon, with no one but this man to help her. This must be Oona's husband, she thought.   She resisted the urge to scan him telepathically—opting to speak to him instead. "Oona has told me about you," she said from across the room.

Aeric blinked several times and nodded absently to Ryla while turning his attention to the other Sevryll, "You ... know ... Oona?"

Joint Post by Jen and Just X

How did she know his wife...better yet, how did she remember her? The shock on his face was obvious.  Still staring at the Vulcan, Aeric allowed his conversation with Ryla to completely falter. "I'm sorry doctor, I lost my train of thought for a moment ... take whatever time you need."

The Trill's brows rose slightly at his reaction to her patient, "I'll... just take this into my office."

Sevryll rolled to her side to alleviate the discomfort she felt and closed her eyes, "Yes, I remember her. She was quite persistent with her questions and, at first, rather annoying. But she was kind enough to help me to my quarters, and after further conversation Oona invited me to her world." The Vulcan opened her eyes to see that Aeric was now standing near her, "she is a kind woman. I don't know anyone as generous."

"She is a very kind woman, as are her people."

"Your wife is also an unhappy woman," she replied. "While kindness was a rarity in my universe, sadness was not."

Aeric sat on a stool next to Sevryll, "I'm quite sure that I'm responsible for her unhappiness, but I'm glad that you both met someone to talk to. I was planning on visiting to welcome you to the ship, but I did not wish to disturb your recovery. Half Vulcan pregnancies can be complicated even without the wound you suffered. I am surprised to see how far along you are. Is that a result of the Cooperative or something else?"

"The predominant theory is that the rift is the culprit." She fell silent a moment, concentrating on her breathing until the pain had passed. "I am only six weeks along, yet the doctor assures me my children are fully developed...." She paused to study his strange expression.

Unlike the rapid pregnancy of the woman before him, his daughter's gestation was longer than the Vulcan average. While their isolation was difficult, it  also had allowed he and Sevryll to explore and accept their relationship and the complications that it would cause if revealed to her family. Helping to deliver Aria was one of the greatest joys of his life...just as losing her was one of the worst. The timeline shifted and in the blink of an eye, all of that he had was gone and he was in a new life where he had been married for almost half a decade. With an effort Aeric broke himself from the past. "I'm sorry, seeing you like this brings back I lot of memories for me. Have you decided on names?"

Sevryll ignored his question, "I've seen your thoughts." He straightened at her words. "Do not concern yourself. I have no intention of sharing them with Oona. You will tell her yourself, because you are an honest man."

Aeric offered a sad smile, "How does one go about doing that given the situation? I don't want to hurt her and the truth, in this case, would do just that. I thought that time and distance would give us perspective, but it hasn't. She deserves better than what I am."

"What you are is a protector." She winced as a pang gripped her, "The truth will hurt her, yes, but your half-truth is like a sea devoid of a shoreline— a knot of pain that your presence cannot unbind. I know what a lie can do if left to fester... learning the truth allowed me to move on."


Aeric nodded slowly, "I think that you're right, but we should hold this conversation until you are feeling better. I'll take your advice and speak with her, but I'm not sure that the truth is a liberating as most people believe. She does need to know the truth. She deserves that much."

A gentle breeze drifted over his face as his ships transporter beamed him in the corner of the restaurant. Now visible to everyone he pulled out a chair and sat down and nodded to the waiter. Looking down a his wrist he concentrated on a small scanner and watched a red bleep gently glow bigger and bigger. The complimentary glass of water was placed in front of him and as the waiter moved away the old man has appeared. Lifting the glass to his lips the cold liquid gently swept down and his eyes stayed locked on the mysterious old man.

Galdar stopped just inside the door of his Starbase quarters and looked around the darkened room. A little illumination was provided by the two small windows on the far side of the living space but the gentle wash of grey they offereddid nothing to aid visual recognition. The system's sun was on the other side of the station, so distant starlight was all that was available here.

The wash of colour from the doorway was more use, sweeping dramatically into the room and highlighting a trapezoid area of carpeted flooring, excepting the pair of Ferengi shaped shadows that stretched off to both left and right from his feet.

"Lights." he muttered.

As the internal illumination brightened, it revealed a sparse room, empty of anything that might identify an occupant. Very few personal effects were on display and if there was any clothing in the room, it was all stored away. To the uninitiated, it would probably appear that these quarters were unoccupied.

Galdar remained in the doorway for a moment, staring absently in the direction of the replicator and the doorway to the sanitary facilities. He'd occupied this space for four months but it had never been home.

Now it never would be.

He stepped forward and allowed the door to close. With a slightly guilty start he realised that for the first time in ages, he was looking forward to his future.

His conversation with Commander Radrek still echoed in his mind and he accepted that there was more than a grain of truth in what the older Vulcan had said. Looked at 'logically' he had no reason to suppose that starship service as an Ensign would be any more interesting than station service in terms of general duties. Outside of that, however, given a starship's mandate for general exploration and the record of this particular ship and crew, there was the potential for things to be a lot more interesting.

He hoped.

Moving to the bed, Galdar sat for a moment, loosening then removing his tunic. Standing abruptly, he smiled hugely as he slowly and deliberately dropped the garment onto the floor; an action he hadn't taken since leaving his homeworld.

As he crossed to the replicator, fighting the urge to pick up his uniform and put it away, his smile became more rueful. He only hoped he'd be assigned a bunk with an officer who appreciated his normal, tidy mannerisms...and one who was prepared to match them.

JOINT POST BY JEN & HAWKEYEMEDS

Joseph watched out of the corner of his eye as Susan Caine folded his
Uniform that was brought from Four Sixteen's Infirmary.

"This is becoming a habit, and I dont mean you folding my clothes,
while I'm tucked up in bed."

Susan spun around and smiled at him,"cheeky....very cheeky... how are you feeling?" she asked in a soft tone.

Joseph sat up and felt his sides.

"Not bad, a bit weak and I have a terrible taste in my mouth. Have you been cooking again?"

A triangular shaped pillow hit him straight in the face and a burst of laughter
came from the doorway. Lieutenant Dunn was standing in the ICU entry, leaning against the bulkhead.

"Boss, I'm starting to think you're jinxed."

Susan chucked. As she lft the two men she whispered to Dunn, "Not long... he's putting on a brave face but the poison has taken its toll."

The freshly minted Lieutenant nodded in understanding  and headed it Joseph's bedside.

"Sir, it appears you were poisoned, Dr Drett has given me her findings," he said as he pulled up a stool and sat down.

He passed a PADD to Joseph, "There have been some unusual activities reported on the station. I'm heading up the investigation and i need to ask you a couple of questions if you are up to it."

Joseph smiled but looked stern as he read the brief with serious concentration."Go ahead Chris."

Dunn examined a second PADD, "Do you remember anything unusual?"

Jospeh put his Display Device down and glanced up at the young Lieutenant.

"Well, I entered the station promenade and went to buy provisions for my shore leave... headed to the shuttle bay, handed Ensign Galdar his transfer orders, entered a shuttle and waited for the pilot. No one came.  I got bored and decided to get up and see what was taking him so long. I felt a surge of pain in my stomach and that's all I remember."

Dunn tapped the information into his PADD. "I know its hard sir, but can you think back and was there anything unusual you remember occurring earlier that day?"


D'Callan looked down and concentrated, suddenly his eyes lit up slightly.

"Wait!.......wait... When i first boarded the station I saw a strange blur out of the corner of my eye. It looked like a man... an old man. Then when I was on the floor in the shuttle bay, just as I was loosing consciousness, I saw another blur... but he was younger, I saw his eyes...... Christopher. I saw my brother."

Dunn stopped taking notes and looked at Joseph, "Your brother?  But..."

Joseph put his hand on Dunn's arm, "Chris, Theran works for Section 31. If he is back it means something is askew. He was on a mission with...., well it doesn't matter who but if he has come back here, you need to find him."

"Sir, if Section 31 is here... We could have a really big mess on our hands.  Who do you think they're after? "

D'Callan pulled himself up, "Who knows?  He's a miserable bugger, probably full of secrets and riddles as usual. Chris, let all personnel know that if he contacts the ship they have my permission to let him aboard. I'm going to have to tell our enthusiastic XO what's going on...If I can get out of this comfy bed. It may get rough soon."

Dr. Peterson and Myella arrived on Ogus II and headed to their cabin in the woods. Myella did not care for camping so they compromised and rented a cottage for a couple of weeks. The cottage had the look of what one might find back in the 1800s on earth with the exception that this one had all the modern conveniences that they did not have back on earth in the 1800s.

The temperature was comfortable being in the mid 70's with a cool breeze blowing and the cottage had a view of a lake which was breathtaking. Some exotic birds were singing and a few rodents that looked like squirrels scurried by paying no attention to Casey or Myella as they forraged for food.

Myella opened the cabin door and she and Casey entered the cottage to find a fireplace going and the table set with a meal waiting for them to consume.

On the table was a note telling Myella and Casey to enjoy their meal and that a guide would be around in the morning to take them on a tour of the facilities and orientate them to the wildlife preserve that their cottage was a part of.

Casey pulled the chair out for his wife, who took her seat, followed by Casey and they began to enjoy a nice lunch of some type of meat stew which reminded them of venison. The lunch was consumed in no time and they unpacked and relaxed and watched the sunset fall behind some trees before they had dinner beside the fireplace and snuggled until the wee hours of the morning.

He'd briefly contemplated carrying the bag over to the ship, but his stature combined with the bag's size meant that the decision to take advantage of his commission hadn't been hard. He tapped his chest.

"Galdar to Arabella"

"Go ahead, Ensign", came the immediate response.

"One bag to beam aboard, please."

"Standby"

There was a pause, presumably while the transporter chief scanned his quarters.

"Acknowledged." came the voice again, followed by a rising, ringing hum as the transporter beam took his bag and broke it down into its component atoms before his eyes.

When it had completely faded out, he found himself exhaling with some force. He always held his breath during transport but hadn't realised he was doing so now.

Reaching behind him, he picked up the last item in the room that didn't belong on the station. The com-badge that had sat beside his bed since he'd 'rescued it' from Nicholas Andrews table. Tossing it from hand to hand he thought back to that meeting.

Nick had rushed out to fly the mission leaving Galdar alone in his quarters with the badge in his hand. He'd actually felt guilty in taking it, a most un-Ferengi sensation and one that he wasn't wholly comfortable with. It was with the ninth rule of acquisition echoing in his mind that he'd pocketed it, 'Opportunity plus instinct equals profit', though what profit this act would bring him was anyones guess.

Watching the old man walk through the crowds Theran D'Callan followed him. The figure flickered everynow and again, it was obvious that his cloaking unit was breaking down. Some of the station crew looked at him a and moved away. Theran quickened his pace but the man vanished. Checking his tracking bracelet the red dot bounced from area to area, it was manic, the dot flashed and then grew bigger near the shuttle bays.

With a sigh, K'Tan pushed himself away from his desk terminal. His monitor powered down, taking with it a brightly colored schematic of EPS conduits.  He stood and stretched, working out the stiffness of his six hour study session.  Lt. Commander James was right, he thought.  So many new protocols and procedures to adapt to.   He grabbed a brown bag from his personal refrigerator as he headed to the door, his head still abuzz with power relay equations and flow diagrams. 

Except for the ever present hum of the Arabella herself, the hallway outside his quarters was quiet .  The pristine grays and earth tones of the corridor were warmly lit, but the soft panel lights did little to dispel the sense of loneliness that haunted the ship.  With the bulk of the crew away on shore leave, the Arabella felt like an abandoned house.

K'Tan shrugged off his melancholy as his thoughts drifted back to his new department. I knew the Arabella was cutting edge, but I had no idea that she was a testbed for so much new technology!  He grinned to himself.  So much new material to learn; I almost feel like I'm back in the Academy.

As he neared the turbolift, K'Tan's fingers trailed along the cool gray wall of the corridor; he imagined that he could almost feel the hum of power coursing through the hidden conduits. Such a marvelous ship, he thought. I look forward to getting to know you better, girl.

The turbolift doors shushed open at his approach; he stepped in and stated his destination.  "Sickbay."  A warbling beep acknowledged his command, and the doors whispered closed.

K'Tan was glad that his friend D'Callan was on the mend, and looked forward to seeing him.  And he had to admit; the chance of running into Ryla again wasn't an unpleasant prospect either.  As the car buzzed towards deck 5, the lights on the wall strobed in sync with its movement. K'Tan shifted impatiently, and the gentle clink of glass bottles came from the brown sack in his hand. 

Calm settled over Aeric and he lay resting in his bed. The lights were dimmed to the point of non-existence with illumination provided by the stars and the stations outside the portholes. His mind had replayed several conversations that he had of late and each had drawn him into an unmistakable conclusion. He had been selfish to himself and those around him in attempting to pick up the life that he was cast into, and he could not continue to drag those he cared for down that path.

Oona, Aeric projected into the void. We need to talk. 

JOINT POST BY FEATHERS AND HAWKEYEMEDS, JEN AND INSTITCHES

Ryla pulled the divider around Sevryll's bio bed—it would be nice have a room devoted to deliveries one day. She regarded the Vulcan who was now propped up in preparation. She looked flushed; her cheeks touched with olive. The doctor moved to her side and gave her the last hypo of pain reliever allowed. Too much would negatively effect the infants' health. Ryla anticipated a difficult delivery, but she was prepared. The Trill had invited Ensign Spring "Mackie" Farmer to Sickbay, and the Fertillian was standing by to relax and calm Sevryll should things become dire.  She could sense the infants' impatience for their imminent birth and sent out a welcoming scent of lilac.

"Are you ready?" Ryla asked the woman as she tied back the Vulcan's long raven locks. Sevryll slowly nodded in response.


The control room of shuttle bay 4 was deserted when Galdar entered which surprised him. It wasn't unusual for control to be empty, but protocol demanded it be locked down for the duration of any absence. From the state of the master control panel, it was clear that this instruction had been neglected.

Looking out over the bay, Galdar could see no signs of occupation there either. That surprised him even more. From what he knew of the repair schedule, quite a lot should have been going on down there with at least three crews in attendance having been rotated back from work aboard the Arabella.

Starting to worry now, Galdar tapped his com badge "Computer, locate Lieutenant Nicholas Andrews"

The computer paused before responding "Lieutenant Andrews is in shuttle bay 4 control room".

Almost by reflex, Galdar started to look round as if Nick was going to appear from the bulkhead unannounced.

"Problem?" asked a laconic voice.

Galdar pivoted on the spot and took in the sight of a strange man standing in the doorway. The Ensign thought he looked similar to Lieutenant Commander Joseph D'Callan but then unfamiliar hew-mons always looked similar to his Ferengi eyes.

"I...don't know. Who are you?"

The stranger, walked forward and looked around the room.

"You are friends with my brother. You can call me Sir. You seem uneasy Ensign?

Galdar looked him up and down.

"The bay is deserted in the middle of a shift which is...unusual."

"Sir.", he added, slightly hesitant at the lack of any visible sign of rank.

As he looked around again, Galdar reached into his pocket and pulled out the com-badge receiver he'd acquired from Andrews' quarters and absently tossed it from hand to hand. It was a habit he'd picked up since he started carrying the badge and signified, to him at least, his efforts to solve the mystery it represented. D'Callan watched, amused.

His expression changed to one of interest when, in mid flight, the badge chirped and spoke.

"Andrews to Andrews. Execute"

The Ensign stepped back in surprise and the badge fell to the floor, where it exploded with a puff of smoke and a small bang. As it was, it was hamless. Had it been attached to, say, a small explosive device of some sort...

As if taking this as a cue, the lights dimmed, red panels illuminated around the room and the familiar wail of the red alert klaxon sounded throughout the Starfleet areas of the starbase.


From within the Arabella's Sickbay, a shuttering howl accompanied the even tone of Ryla's encouragement, "you're doing well, Sevryll." A longer, fiercer cry followed as the Vulcan pushed again. 

From the other side of the divider Mackie's concerned voice could be heard over the shouts of pain, "You exaggerated, Ryla. Deliveries aren't all pony rides in May sunshine...are they?" 

"Sorry about that," said Ryla with a rueful smile as she checked the read out of her tricorder.


Voices clamoured over Four Sixteen's com system, fighting with one-another to report a series of explosions taking place in all of the major station access points. "Explosion in shuttle bay 1...Explosion in shuttle bay 2...Explosion in..." No-one seemed injured and no hull breaches were reported but an awful lot of shuttle bays and landing pads had just been taken out of commission.

The stranger looked out at the bay then back at the Ferengi. Nothing had exploded in shuttle bay 4.

"This is Theran D'Callan to Arabella", he barked, striking a concealed com-badge. "Secure the shuttle bays and close down all access from the station. We appear to have an incident taking place over here"

"Aye, Sir", came the somewhat startled voice of the watch officer.

In an echo of his actions a few days earlier, Galdar grabbed a hand phaser from the weapons locker and shambled through the bay doors to the catwalk. If all the other shuttle bays were being attacked, which is what appeared to be going on, there was a good chance something was about to occur here.

D'Callan was close on his heels, weapon already drawn. He wasn't close enough. The pressure door from the bay hissed shut with a snap then locked and sealed itself. Cursing Theran spun and headed back to the other control room entrance. There was more than one way onto a hanger deck.

Galdar glanced back at the sound of the doors, but didn't halt his descent to the flight deck. Something was definitely wrong.

He'd got as far as the first line of shuttles when he was blown to the deck by an explosion. Concussive pressure was not pleasant for a Ferengi due to their overly sensitive ears. The inevitable result was unconsciousness as Galdar discovered just before his head hit the floor a second later.


Sickbay echoed with Sevryll's cries of pain--her shrill voice ringing in the staff's ears. Doctor Drett was careful to keep her voice calm, "Mackie, that's your cue..." The Fertillian emitted the sweet fragrance of Gespar blossoms in full bloom, blended with the aroma of rain-swept air. Sevryll whined quietly in between measured breaths. "Good...it's working," said Ryla as she passed her tricorder over the woman, "you're doing fine Sevryll...Push." The Vulcan clinched her jaw and groaned in pain as she bore down again.


A whining disturbed Galdar as he swam his way back up to consciousness. His bed was particularly uncomfortable this morning, it felt almost like...deck plating. His eyes opened suddenly and he found himself an inch away from the warp nacelle of a type 8 shuttle. He liked ships but this was stupid.

As he sat up, the whine increased in pitch and his addled brain finally registered the noise as an unfamiliar class of engine spooling up. He worked his way unsteadily to his knees and, peering round the front of the craft he'd collapsed beside, saw the open door of the Tellarite shuttle...with Nicholas Andrews crouching in the doorway.

From the station door he could hear voices which snapped into sudden clarity as three individuals rounded the corner, unknown weapons visible in the hands of at least two of them. Nick straightened and waved them toward him, shouting.

Galdar stooped to retrieve his dropped phaser. With no idea what was going on, his options were limited. Considering that someone had just blown their way into a Starfleet shuttlebay on a Federation station, however, he felt he had a certain freedom of action.

Taking a bead on the leading individual, Galdar pressed the stud on his weapon and fired. A beam of orange energy lanced out, striking the first of the civilians full in the chest and pushing him back against the nearest ship before he fell to the floor. Stunned.

The others stopped, dropping to the deck, trying to work out who was shooting and why. Crabbing sideways on all fours, they disappeared behind the Tellarite ship in the search for cover.

It was a surprise to everyone in the bay when another whine sounded and a beam from the doorway took a second man in the shoulder, dropping him to the deck. Theran D'Callan stepped into view, weapon raised and fired again, missing this time. Galdar raised his weapon to take a shot but a beam of energy splashing off the nose of the ship he sheltered behind quickly changed his mind. Startled he saw Nick in the shuttle doorway readying his weapon for another shot.

Galdar ducked.


There were no descriptions that could accurately illustrate the agony associated with childbirth.  The screams that often attended such events conveyed this pain better than words and perhaps more precisely than even telepathy could express. Yet Mackie's influence soothed her misery and connected her mind to anther's gentle effect. The thoughts she could now perceive did not come from the women standing nearby, but from beyond the walls of sickbay. It was a voice she had heard only once, and only hours before. Aeric James was singing a prayer for her. A Golic hymn that only she could hear.  Sevryll fell back against the raised portion of the biobed with a wail, her chest heaving with toil, the first baby was close to crowning.


With a sudden wail, the space door alarms sounded, startling both Galdar and D'Callan. The remaining fugitive, an older man, took the opportunity the distraction offered and dived for the shuttle door, hitting the mechanism and closing it behind him as he did so. Two phaser beams splashed off it as it glided along the side of the shuttle and setted into its recessed housing but if either officer hoped for a ricochet into the shuttle, they were disappointed. With a roar of thrusters the ship lifted from the deck.

Galdar had to admit that the Tellarites built shuttles with a certain majestic quality, to Ferengi eyes at least, and he took a moment to admire the vessel as it began to make somewhat slow and stately progress toward the space doors. It looked like Nick Andrews had never flown a ship like this before.

Theran, running up behind Galdar, shouted above the noise of the shuttle engines. "We need to get out...NOW! Standard Tellarite shields won't mesh with the door field. They'll need to take it down to get into space."

Galdar tapped his com badge "Computer, lock out remote access to space door force field, shuttle bay 4, authorisation Galdar Blue Omega Seven"

"Lock out in place"

"Close space door, shuttle bay 4"

"Unable to comply, remote lock out in place"

The shuttle continued to move towards the door, starting to accelerate.

Galdar's mouth gaped in incomprehension. The shuttle was unarmed, with its weaponry stored in the secure storage locker. The field was locked in place to anyone not in the control room. Andrews must know the way was barred.

His mouth snapped shut as he remembered the open storage locker from a few days before and Andrews' almost simultaneous arrival in the control room. He dived for the deck as a pair of energy beams lanced out from the nose of the shuttle, intercepting the shield generators to either side of the bay doors.

The field failed under the energy onslaught and a sudden breeze rapidly became a gale.


Aboard Arabella, Ryla Drett smiled as the first child drew breath and the voices of Mother and child cried out in harmony. Mackie noted that his sister was already missing her womb-mate and sought to join him as soon as possible."Now," said Ryla. Sevryll roared as the next child began her way into the light.


"Theran D'Callan to Arabella. Emergency transport, NOW!" he roared into the thinning atmosphere.

Galdar felt the transporter beam take him as the sound of the venting atmosphere faded in his ears and the oxygen thinned in his lungs. This was going to be close. From the corner of his eye, he saw the bodies of the stunned civilians, also enveloped in the glow of a transporter initiation.

As the shuttle bay faded out around him, Galdar's last thought was that for a disarmed shuttle, this one had done an awful lot of damage.


"It's a girl," said Ryla as she placed the baby in Sevryll's arms.

"James to operations," Aeric shouted in between pulling on his tunic and racing down the sparsely occupied corridor of Deck 3. "What the hell is going on up there?"

The muffled sounds of the acting XO's boots striking the carpeted path managed to generate a soft echo during his race to the turbolift. His dark hair was still a mess from the brief nap that he had allowed himself and the velocity at which he threw himself down the hall did nothing to help him in dressing.

"Ops here sir," replied the voice of Ensign Tobas, the current watch officer. "We recieved a priority contact from a Theran D'Callan to lock down the shuttle bays and engage an emergency transport."

Aeric growled as he entered the turbolift, "There is no Theran D'Callan serving aboard this vessel ensign and none in command on the station. Send two security teams to meet our guest and on your off duty hours, please review the proper protocols regarding the command structure of this ship. James out."

"Bridge." Aeric commanded. Had he been in a better mood, he might have waited to hear the ensign's reply, but the breach was unacceptable. Someone not in the chain of command had managed to not only give orders to his crew, but to have them followed. This was more than a security breach. It could very well be a deadly mistake.

Once the lift stopped and opened on the lightly staffed bridge, Aeric immediately turned his attention to the Bajorian Ensign Tobas. Aeric couldn't help but notice the sweat on a brow as crinkled as his nose. The ensign's frustration was obvious on his face.

"Sir, security has been dispatched." Tobas said in an unsure voice.

Aeric nodded. "Thank you ensign. You are now relieved of duty until a performance evaluation can be conducted. Please report to your quarters."

Shock danced over the ensign's face for a brief moment before being schooled behind an officer's bearing. "Aye sir."

Aeric nodded once then moved over to the operations station that the crestfallen young ensign vacated it. Aeric's fingers rapidly moved over the console to open a communications channel to the station. "This is Lieutenant Commander James to station security. An incident has been reported on the station and we would like to be brought up to speed."

JOINT POST BY JUST X & HAWKEYEMEDS


Jospeh sat up in bed and glanced at his security monitor, he still felt weak but he knew he would have to tell Aeric what he had just been told.

"D'Callan to Commander James"

Aeric barked back, "Which one?"

Joseph looked up and shook his head, he'd heard the sounds and knew that this was bound to be something his brother had done.

"Joseph Sir. I've just received notification that my brother Theran is here."

"I know Lt Commander he's been barking orders about locking down shuttle bays and who knows whatever. I want an explanation." Aeric turned to see a slightly out of breath Lt Dunn exiting the turbolift.

"Ah Sir, Lt commander D'callan sent me down to let you know that his brother would be............"

Simultaniously both Aeric and Joseph spoke. "YOU'RE TOO LATE!"

Dunn looked slightly shocked he'd had to take a re-route as several turbo lifts were still not working due to repairs. Aeric concentrated back to the conversation with Joseph. His tone calmer.

"Whats going on Joseph?"

"Sir. When i passed out on the station the last person I saw was Theran, my brother. Unfortunatley he works for section 31."

"Continue ...", Aeric rubbed his face and groaned. He was more than tired of the pseudo secret organization and the threat they were to the Federation's ideals. They were nothing more than thugs with an artificial sense of power and none of that was granted by the Federation that he served. It was becoming a tie in his head as to which was the great threat to the Federation, Section 31 or the Borg.

"If he is here it means there is trouble. I gave him access to come aboard the Arabella and then this happened."

Aeric headed towards sick bay when the transporter chief contacted him.

"Sir, Theran D'callan and a Ferenghi starfleet officer Geldar are now in transporter room one."

Aeric didn't hesitate. "I'm on my way. Security should be arriving shortly. Please keep an eye on our guests until then. If anyone else requests an emergency transport, keep them in the pattern buffer until we can get this mess sorted. James out."

Aeric looked to Dunn before proceeding back to the lift. "You have ops until the replacement arrives."

Joint Post by Just X, Feathers and Hawkeyemeds.

As the transporter beam whispered around Theran and Galdar, Theran's eyes stayed locked on the fading shuttle until it was replaced with the grey transporter room of the Arabella. He jumped down from the dais as soon as he was released, to be confronted by a pair of security guards. The guards spoke first.

"Commander james has instructed us keep you here until he arrives, sir."

Theran slapped the officer on the back.

"Do you know my brother is head of security etc etc?"

The security guards glanced at each other and the taller went to speak but was interrupted by Theran.

"He's a good old stick that younger brother of mine. We need a fully working shuttle craft. I'm guessing your tractor beams are still down and I'm hoping no-one's blown your shuttle bay apart."

The taller officer nodded but interjected.

"Sir, there is a shuttle available in the main bay and that part of the ship is fully operational. But i must insist that......."

Galdar chirped in.

"Its OK Ensign, I know the way"

Having studied the plans of the Arabella, not to mention his earlier duty shift aboard, Galdar felt he knew this place like the back of his hand. Of course, he took the wrong turn as soon as he got to a cross corridor but quickly corrected himself.

As they rounded the corner on the approach to the bay, Galdar spoke up. "For what it's worth, sir, I believe the Arabella shuttle bay WAS targeted in the attack. The device that blew up in my hand was...acquired...from Lieutenant Andrews quarters after a shift aboard this ship. I guess he intended to leave it aboard."

He fell silent for a minute.

"The explosive must still be in Jeffries tube 77...", he said quietly.

They moved on in silence until they entered the shuttle bay and headed to their craft. Theran tapped his com-badge.

"Theran D'callan to Joseph D'Callan."

Joseph answered.

"How come whenever we meet I end up in bed?"

"On your own brother?"

"Yes, I'm in sick bay again. As well as you know. What are you doing now. Have you seen Commander James?"

"I don't have time for protocol. Do you have a monitor near by, I'll send you all my info."

Theran stopped at a wall terminal and held his wrist against the blank Plexiglas. Suddenly information and details copied to the subframe and Theran sent them to Joseph's personal records.

In sick bay Joseph keyed in his security code and the information from Theran came zooming in. The first thing he saw was the name. Karum.

Tapping his com-badge he simply said.

"You've found our Father"

As Theran and Galdar turned the corner standing in front of them with his arms folded and two further guards behind him stood Commander Aeric James.

"Greeting gentlemen," Aeric said and added a false smile. He eyes held the anger that he felt as he motioned to the guards to draw their weapons. "You have ten seconds to explain why these men shouldn't escort you to the brig and it better be good."

The sight of the men away from the transporter room irritated the acting XO to no end. Perhaps the universal translators were malfunctioning when he issued orders to the chief. Was detaining two people that hard to accomplish? This was not the day he imagined having and the inability to follow protocols had been amazingly poor for the crew. The presence of a rogue agent from an illegal organization only added to his ire.

Galdar looked from Theran D'Callan to the guards on either side of the man he presumed to be Lieutenant Commander James. Then he straightened and looked at James directly.

"Ensign Galdar, reporting as ordered. Sir!"

Only the slight quaver on the final sylable revealed just how nervous and confused he really was.

JOINT POST BY JUST X & HAWKEYEMEDS

"Stay where you are gentlemen, this shouldn't take too long to sort out." Aeric said in a cool voice, but almost ignoring the ensign's greeting as he looked directly at Theran. "Mr. D'Callan, would you care to explain what is going on?"

D'Callan looked past Aeric through the viewport window and watched the shuttle craft carrying the fugitives stall.

"Mr Aeric James. Son of Alrissa and, Oooo now that would be telling. I'd love to stand here and massage your ego while you fill in the gaps of command but I have work to do. Out there in that juddering shuttle are two fugitives. The first an old man who personally owes me an apology, the other one is one of  your own Starfleet cretins who thought it ideal to blow up the bays and maybe even your ship."

Aeric started to speak but was cut short.

"In fact if it wasn't for this ensign here who found the trigger device this vessel would be sitting here having a new paint job for another twelve weeks, so if you don't mind I do have work to do."

Aerics face took on a completely neutral tone. It was obvious that the man had read his personnel file, but most of it was public knowledge. He glanced out of the window to see the shuttles power cells go back on online.

"Pretty speech, are you done now?" Aeric mused. His voice had been honed to a dagger-like edge as he continued. "There is no place on this ship for you or any other member of 31. If we need your help it's more than likely because of a problem that 31 created."

Theran D'Callan discretely tapped several buttons on his wrist and smiled at James.

"Mate, my brother loves this cretinous organization as much as you do and for that i pity him. I don't have time for this. "

The red dot on his wrist grew bigger and Theran's cloaking device began to activate, he paused it for a moment.

"Say hi to your wife, this cloaking technology has been an asset to our Section."

He winked at James and then he was gone. The two guards looked around and Aeric walked to the viewport window, the shuttle craft had disappeared.

Aeric's brow rose as the man vanished. Inwardly, he felt nothing but amusement. The man actually thought he could use stolen technology against a technopath. He also mentioned Aeric's wife. Something that the man wouldn't remember if he had ever met her. Obviously, he had not read as much as he could have or he had seriously overplayed his hand. It was a technology that he once had in his own possession until the Romulas mission. Aeric growled under his breath. If there was a chance that Theran spoke the truth, he would have to let him finish his task. Aeric was sure that the technology and mention of it's source could have only come through one channel. David Locke.

Turning to the young Ferengi James crossed his arms. Galdar looked up and offered a weak smile. "Permission to come aboard sir"

"Granted." Aeric nodded to the ensign then turned his attention to the security detail. "Escort Mr. Galdar to my office. He and I will need to have a little talk after I get the ship in order."

Joint Post by HawkeyeMeds, Jen & wraith1701

Back in sickbay, Joseph slammed his head into the pillow and caught the metal frame.

"Oh for...."

"Easy there, Chief."

Looking up, he saw the formidable figure of K'Tan in the doorway carrying a brown sack.

"Wotcha got there, mate?" he asked.

K'Tan furtively glanced around the room.  Seeing that they were safe from prying eyes, he removed a large, amber colored bottle.  Beads of condensation rolled down the chilled surface of the glass as K'Tan handed it to Joseph.  "Just a little something to help ease the pain," he said with a grin.

K'Tan pulled out a second bottle, and after flicking the cap off with his thumb, took a slow pull of the beer.

"I found it in the replicator library. It's an ancient Australian drink called 'Coopers Original Pale Ale."  He let out a soft burp.  "I used my security clearance to override the replicator's safety protocols.  No synthehol here; these are the real deal."

"Very nice," D'Callan said with a smile.  He lifted his bottle to toast-

"Here's to a guy who is never blue,
Here's to a buddy who is ever true,
Here's to a pal, no matter what the load,
Who never declines, just one for the road!"

Both men laughed, clinked their bottles together, and took a deep drink.

"How do you keep ending up here?" K'Tan asked.  " I'm starting to think that you get yourself into these scrapes just so you can get away from facing me in that ancient 'cricket' game.  You still owe me a match, you know."

Joseph rubbed his head and smiled in mock-discovery.

"I knew it; you've been practicing."

K'Tan gently laughed as he walked around the bed, quietly surveying the gleaming and fresh smelling sick bay. He paused at the head of the bed.  "So, how's everything going?"

"Not Good mate," D'Callan replied.  "Aeric's just been barking down the com badge. And my brother is here-- Remember; I told you about him. Well something has kicked off down there and I don't think he's too happy."

K'Tan smiled absently as he continued to look around the bay. Sitting down, he put his boots on D'Callans bed.

"Have you seen Ryla around?" K'Tan asked.

Joseph stopped halfway through his conversation. "Are you even listening to me?"

K'Tan looked past Joseph to the office. "Yeah, yeah; you mentioned something about Commander James barking at your brother, or something."

Joseph sat up and swung his pillow at K'Tan's head.  "Ryla is in the office if you fancy going over there and get rid of that grin."

K'Tan stood up and lightly punched D'Callan's arm. "Chin up," he smiled.  "Beers later. That's if you aren't still confined to quarters."

K'Tan stood and headed towards the office, leaving D'Callan shaking his head in mild amusement.  His smile faltered as he looked down at the muddy boot prints left on his bed.

"Oh great; Susan's going to love this mess."

Joint Post by Dinghead and Feathers

Darius glanced over at Commander James. The situation was getting sticky, if 31 was involved...

At least everyone in the room seemed to share his opinion of that little self-important group of shadow-dealers. Had it been his call, Darius would have stunned everyone in the room first, the Boss included. Then sorted it all out after everybody was tossed in nice, safe brig cells. Of course, he'd been accused of over reacting before...

The other guard, it seemed wasn't about to take Aeric's proffered assignment. Seniority is a horrible thing from the new guy's perspective.

"Your office," Darius repeated crisply. "Right away... Sir." He stepped back and motioned to the Ferengi, "This way."

Galdar nodded, still slightly uncertain. Whatever was going on was probably above his rank and definitely outside his sphere of Starfleet experience. As a non-citizen, his knowledge on the minutiae of Federation life was limited but something told him that even the average Federation man-in-the-walkway wouldn't have 'got' these strange numeric references.

On exiting the bay Galdar looked sidelong at Shane. He saw an ensign, like himself, but a human and so impossible for him to assess in terms of age and temperament. He cleared his throat.

"Galdar. Ensign. Shuttle pilot. Just transferred to the Arabella." he paused, then tried to smile in a friendly manner. "This is not the way I'd have chosen to report aboard but neither is knocking on an airlock...from the outside...without a suit."

Darius looked at him briefly then returned his attention to the corridoor ahead. Striding along, he said nothing for an extended period. The Ferengi simply trotted along beside him, however, also saying nothing. Despite his obvious nerves, the extended silence appeared not to rattle him further. Darius mentally shrugged. He was an officer, even if he was an unknown quantity, and for the moment he wasn't in custody.

"Darius Shane. Security."

The Ferengi looked at him and waited for the next sentence. There wasn't one.

He tried again, going for broke. "What is 31 and why does it make Lieutenant Commander D'Callan's brother so unpopular?"

The official answer, was that Section 31 didn't exist. Of course, you couldn't give that to someone who'd just risked their hide for you.  With a sigh, Darius launched into an explanation. "Section 31 is a... well, they're a splinter group really. They used to be a part of Starfleet we just didn't talk about, but they were supposedly disbanded a while ago.  They were covert intelligence and ops, things that every government does, but no one admits to doing. The Boss' brother seems to fit their mold nicely, arrogant to the point of smugness and so smooth he should be downright frictionless..."

Darius came to a sudden stop. Why was he running his mouth to a Ferengi shuttle pilot about stuff way above the kid's security clearance? New-Kid-on-the-Block Syndrome, that was why.

"Sorry, Galdar," he said at length. "I just transferred aboard myself. Didn't mean to give you the suspect treatment. I know what being the odd one out feels like. Basically, a lot of folks in Command and Security hate 31 because now, they're a much greater threat then anything they THINK they're protecting us from. 31 is a loose cannon and one of these days, it's going to go off. It won't be pretty."

An hour had passed since Sevryll's healthy newborns first drew breath. The infants and their mother were exhausted and they slept soundly despite the bustle of Sickbay.   

Ryla smiled at Ensign Farmer over a cup of Raktijino as they chatted within the privacy of her office, "You did great Mackie...thank you for helping.  If the captain approves the clinic, you'll have to consider transferring to the medical department." Her focus moved from her friend to the man approaching her office from the Sickbay floor. "How does he do that?" She muttered.  K'Tan had somehow managed to slip past her once again; there was no telling how long he had been in the medical ward.

The Fertillian detected an instant shift in Ryla's natural lemon drop fragrance. The Trill now emitted the sweet spice of Reign Victoria Roses, "down girl..." she smiled.

"Oh stop it," whispered Ryla. She tried to halt the grin she felt in her heart from reaching her face, but it bested her easily and pressed the dimples she hated into her cheeks.

K'Tan was smiling just as broadly as he approached the door,  "Hello ladies, am I interrupting?"

Mackie's back was facing the Chief Tactical Officer as she rolled her eyes at the Trill.

The doctor's smile never failed as she tired to ignore her friend's relentless teasing.  She quickly stood, bumping her cup. It rattled on the desk's glossy surface, but remained upright.  "Hello, Lieutenant Commander." The formality was back in her reference, despite her buoyant demeanor. "Did you come to see Lieutenant Commander D'Callan?"

The smell of ale reached her and her eyes narrowed as she spied the bottle he tried to hide behind his back, "Did you bring him... something alcoholic...to drink?" She peered through the transparent office wall just in time to see Joseph drop a similar bottle on the other side of his biobed.

A frown now creased her spotted forehead, "that better be one of Margon's rootbeers, K't...Commander." She could feel her temper climbing...

Theran appeared in his own cloaked ship and threw the wrist controller at the wall.

"Should have came here first"

Starting the engines he looked over at The Arabella.

"Ahem, Theran D'Callan to Joseph D'Callan"

A few seconds went by before Joseph replied.

"What do you want?"

Theran rolled his eyes. "No need to be like that, I'm sorry....."

Joseph cut in.

"No you're not, you're not sorry Theran. I've made a life for myself here, I've got good friends and a career. i don't need you turning my life upside down"

Theran shrugged and pulled at his cheek.

"Considering you are the older sibling you do act immature"

Joseph barked back, his anger obvious.

"Immature, me. I'm not the one poncing around dressed in black playing eye spy. Get a life Theran and STAY OUT OF MINE. D'CALLAN OUT! "

The audio went dead and theran looked at the steady sound line on his communication panel. A small piece of skin fell from his cheek where he had just pulled and he threw it on the floor. Tapping in some numbers he opened a secure communication channel.

"D6. This is Karum D'callan. I've lost the agent known as Theran. make a note he is heavily disguised as myself, the gas i hit him with has caused him a temporary state of insanity. The other one is under Starfleet security the poison you gave me wasn't strong enough."

A slow dry sounding voice echoed back through the shell of Karums shuttle.

"I'm not interested. You've gone too far Karum, from now on, you're on your own. D6 Out."

Karum tore at the prosthetic skin, the youth full tone replaced by his own yellowing colour, he snarled and activated the warp drive.

Nicholas Took looked over at Nathan Quinn as he shook his head reading the padd. Two hours prior they were relaxing in one of the finest hot spring on Ogus II before getting a priority one communiqué from Starfleet. They had to cut short their shore leave and return to the Arabella immediately.

Quinn's jaw continued to drop as he read down the padd.  "Is everything alright" Nic asked as he piloted the shuttlecraft. Nathan chuckled to himself "Oh yeah everything great.. I have a rogue Section 31 agent aboard my ship who happens to be the brother of my chief of security, oh and D'Callen gave him permission and access to The Arabella. This agent has been giving orders to my crew and they are actually following them. There have been several explosions aboard the Starbase and one averted aboard the Arabella and my new ensign is said to be an accomplice with the agent." Quinn just shook he head, " Oh at least we have some good news Sevryll has her children and they are doing well."  Nic mouth was slightly open, "Wow, we should go on shore leave more often." Quinn smiled slightly and laid down the padd while running his fingers through his hair. "How much longer before we reach the Arabella". "Twenty minutes," Nic said. "Good that will give me some time to meditate, I need to calm myself down." Nathan said as he took some deep breaths.

Galdar sat in the office of the Executive Officer of the USS Arabella and waited. He'd already been here a while and yet he didn't begrudge the time.

Back on Ferenginar, his father had often made him wait and he had resented it every time. Waiting, by its very nature, was a slight in Ferengi society, though not one that was often discussed. Being made to wait said that your business interests were obviously less important than those of the one you awaited and could thus be indefinitely delayed. In the same way, agreeing to wait was understood as a tacit acceptance of the assumption and a recognition of a position of inferior status. That was the surface interpretation anyway. The deeper you analysed it, the more complicated it became and the more nuances you'd discover.

Starfleet, in comparison, was relatively straightforward in that rank conferred the right to make people wait on those who held it. There were a few exceptions but generally, at least in Galdar's experience, rank reflected relative ability and experience.

Oddly, the Ensign wasn't particularly worried by what he was waiting for either. He'd not met Lt Commander James before the incident in the shuttle bay but from what he knew of the man, gleaned from his research on the Arabella, if James saw purpose in imposing on his time it was probably justified.

Galdar stood abruptly and walked to the window, from which the curve of the station was just visible. He rubbed his scalp, itchy again in the dry air.

Besides, he thought ruefully, given that someone had just blown the guts out of most of the external access ports to the station and had probably planted a device in the main shuttle bay of this ship, it wasn't a surprise that the Commander had more important things to do. There was probably a sector wide alert in place by now.

The fact that he'd come aboard with someone from this 'Section 31' was just bad luck, exacerbated by the character's relationship to the Arabella's Chief of Security. He doubted he'd be held responsible for D'Callan's presence on the ship, he'd only met him minutes before the shuttle bay was shot up and D'Callan himself had made the call for transport. There was a chance he would be associated with whatever was in progress, however, and he wasn't sure that, as a Ferengi, he would be able to talk his way out of it.

Rule of acquisition 19 was apparently correct. Satisfaction really isn't guaranteed.

Joseph peered round the glass and could see K'Tan attempt to hide his bottle of ale, deciding it best to hide his as well  he slipped it down the side of the bio bed. He glanced at the monitor in front of him. The information that had been transmitted flashed in front of him but something strange caught his eye. Re-reading the words he suddenly noticed small mistakes.  The wording was slightly out of context, Theran would never spell words wrong and why did he call me immature. Looking again at the screen the information was all gibberish, whatever Theran had sent him was meaningless.

"Computer scan report and highlight grammar and spelling anomalies"

The words shot up in front of him, this was not right. He wiped his eyes and looked again. The highlighted words rolled in front of him. Infrin, ashj, minuh, thut, olkj, llkj, ddfi, mhjj, bhhhg, eddd, weeerf, asdf, rtyhj, needf, erfgt, dsd.

They didn't make sense. Joseph sat up in bed and looked at the words, it took him a few moment to realise it was the first letters that stood out. I AM T OLD M BE WARNED.

"I am the old man be warned, old man? Karum? wait.... why would Theran send me that unless.....Theran is the old man. That's why he acted so agitated... Damn"

Joseph looked across but suddenly he felt tired, the poison had made him weak and the sudden anxiety and the ale made him pass out.

"Go to red alert." Lieutenant commander James said to the operations officer and tapped his com badge as he stood on bridge of the ship. "James to all personnel. A security lockdown is now in effect. All security officer begin a sweep and clear of all decks for unauthorized personnel and suspicious items. All other personnel please report to your duty stations and quarters until further notice. If you notice anything odd, please report it."

Aeric took a deep breath as the pulsing red light and the alarm rang out. Aeric looked over the bridge staff. "Mute the alarm and do a scan for all life forms aboard the ship without a Arabella issued communicator."

"Aye, sir." replied the ensign currently running operations.

"Flag any non-Arabella crew to be intercepted and detained by security until their credentials can be verified." Aeric said as he took a seat in the captain's chair. Taking a deep breath, Aeric closed his eyes and reached out to the ship with his mind, searching for something that did not belong on the ship.

The Red Alert saved Lieutenant Commander K'Tan from Doctor Drett's lecture, regarding the bottle of ale that he had clearly shared with her patient. Upon hearing the First Officer's orders, Ryla's frown fell away.  This has to be related to Joseph's poisoning, she thought. The Trill Doctor glanced from her unconscious patient, to address K'Tan. It was then she noticed that he was quickly striding toward the exit. The Trill raised her voice in question as the doors parted for him,  "do you think these people are coming for Joseph?"

"What?!"

The red alert klaxon took Lester by surprise. They didn't have them often on Starbases and he hadn't put in enough hours on starships to be quite used to them yet.

"Computer, what is happening?", he enquired.

The computer beeped in response but before it could give a reply it was interrupted by the intercom. It was Commander James ordering a security lock down and ordering all personnel to duty stations or to remain in their quarters.

Lester's shift didn't start for 2 hours and he hesitated. Exhaling, he made his decision and headed out of his quarters on his way to Engineering.

Galdar continued to stand and stare at the curve of Starbase 416 through the window of Aeric James' office. He waited.

Despite having formally reported aboard as soon as he'd been able, he hadn't come aboard in an orthodox manner and certainly hadn't completed any of the normal formalities. As such, he would presumably show up as a non-crew member on internal sensors and would almost certainly be flagged for the attention of Security if he started wandering around while the ship was at alert status. Staying where the XO had ordered him and Security had put him seemed to be the best move at a time like this.

Besides, he doubted they'd want him in the shuttle bay right now if the escort he'd received from that location was anything to go by...

Yawning, he rubbed his eyes. He'd been awake for too many hours on a straight run and the current period of inactivity meant it was all starting to catch up with him. Moving to the chair, Galdar sat again and closed his eyes, glad that the klaxon had been muted. He wasn't going to sleep but he did need to sit back...just for a moment.

Joint post by Feathers and Just X

Galdar stirred as the door opened and was vaguely aware of the sound of carpeted footsteps as someone entered the room. They halted a little way in front of his chair. As the Ferengi started his slow return to consciousness, he struggled to work out where he was. The footsteps hadn't helped.

He woke to see his father looking at him in annoyance then glancing meaningfully at the curved doorway that led to the rest of the house. The doorway beyond which his bedroom lay.

"I see you have still not learned sense when it comes to replenishing your energies after a taxing day" his father stated flatly.

He was slowly becoming aware of the clutter around him, including a fallen bowl of grubs. It had obviously been there a while as much of the foodstuff it once contained had crawled to the far reaches of the room.

"Urg" he mumbled through dry lips.

A hand shook his shoulder.

Galdar snapped his eyes open, and blinked his way into consciousness. Instead of home, he found an office and instead of his father he looked into the eyes of Lieutenant Commander Aeric James.

"Sleep well Ensign?" Aeric asked in a tone just slightly louder than whispering. "It's not unexpected to crash after the adrenaline wears off. It's one of those things that you have to prepare for in the future."

Aeric turned and walked to the desk, taking the seat behind it. As he did so, Galdar stood and approached the desk in his turn. Aeric's fingers lightly traced over the rough unfinished baked clay surface of a Vulcan figurine from the time before logic. It was a simple piece that conveyed so much of that time. The passion of the artist's work could be seen in the details. It was a passion directed into art rather than the bloodshed that was common it the era it was made.   

"Sir, I feel I must apologise for the manner of my arrival aboard the ship. As you know I was due to report aboard at the start of my next shift", he didn't dare ask the time, "but events in the shuttle bay rather overtook my plans leading to my somewhat hasty departure from the station."

James nodded, but said nothing.

"I would also like to formally report Lieutenant Nicholas Andrews for his part in today's action and, I believe, the destruction of station facilities. He left aboard the shuttle with the other fugitive. As for the presence of Mr D'Callan, all I can offer is that he was present in the shuttle bay, a restricted area, and introduced himself as a superior officer and brother to the Lieutenant Commander. Again, events got in the way of further introductory pleasantries."

With his report concluded, Galdar relaxed slightly and allowed his eyes to drift to the shelves, attracted by the family images they held. Holographic children, frozen in time, looked back at him with smiles on their faces and laughter in their eyes.

In the silence that had fallen on the room, Aeric looked at his new Ferengi officer. If an honest assessment were made, he wasn't looking too good. From the bleary eyes to the crumpled uniform (with what looked like a phaser scorch mark across one shoulder) he was not a living picture of Starfleet at its best. Galdar straightened his uniform as he felt the appraising gaze, the phaser at his hip coming into Acting First Officers view for the first time.

"Is it your normal practice to arm yourself while sleeping, Ensign?", James spoke for the first time since sitting.

Galdar bristled, rising to the implied criticism...until he detected the edge of a smile at the corners of the Lieutenant Commander's mouth. He took a deep breath.

"Sleep was not my intention, Sir. However, it was a...trying evening." Images of the phaser exchange in the shuttle bay crossed his mind unbidden.

"I understand. The ship is currently on security lockdown, but your new quarters are available." Aeric said as he rose. His link to the Arabella had wordlessly informed him that the captain had sent signal of his pending return to the ship. "You should report to them and get some rest. After you have done that, we can see about getting you on the duty roster. Dismissed Ensign."

Lieutenant Commander James stood in his office and paced as he inhaled the scent provided by the flora within. His mind deftly processed the information at hand and allowed him to formulate his next course of action. As much as his personal life had occupied him in recent days, the status of the ship had always been a priority. The sudden chaos that the ship now face was something that could have been prevented if protocols had been observed. They weren't and the ship now suffered for it.

Aeric sighed softly before tapping his comm badge. "James to Dunn."

"Dunn here sir," came the reply of the newly promoted officer.

"Take another officer with you and proceed to D'Callan's location. He is to be placed under house arrest and relieved of all duties until an inquiry can be conducted on his part in the current security breach."

Dunn only hesitated briefly before accepting his orders. "Yes sir."

As he neared the sickbay exit, K'Tan was frozen in place by Ryla's question-

"Do you think these people are coming for Joseph?"

He turned and stepped back into the room as he considered her question.  "Possibly.  Perhaps I should remain here until the alert has passed." 

K'Tan tapped his combadge.  "K'Tan to Commander James.  I couldn't help but notice that we've gone to red alert.  Is there anything I can do to assist?"

"Lights" called Galdar as he entered the suite that was to be his home.

The illumination in the living area rose as he stepped into its centre and looked about. The room was empty and the doorways to both sets of sleeping quarters and the bathroom were open. Presumably the unnamed Ensign who was already quartered here was at his duty station for the duration of the alert. Crew quarters on an Intrepid weren't as cramped as those on a Defiant but for an Ensign or Senior Chief, space was limited and personnel were required to share.

With this in mind, Galdar had entered the room with some trepidation. As he looked thoughtfully around the sparse, empty quarters, however, he felt himself relax and a smile spread slowly across his face. Little evidence could be seen that a human already lived here and the room looked as tidy as Galdar's starbase quarters had been. Couch and chairs were clear of the discarded clothing and debris that Galdar usually associated with human habitation and those items that were visible in the room were neatly stacked or stored. There were no pictures on the walls and no ornamentation upon any of the surfaces.

Still smiling, he crossed to each of the sleeping quarters and peered around the threshold. One of the beds had been slept in, though this was barely perceptible. His bag sat in the centre of the other room.

Guiltily, Galdar moved to the storage facility in the occupied room and actuated one of the drawers. It opened silently at his touch revealing articles of neatly folded clothing, positioned regularly and evenly so as to make best use of the available space. Checking another, he found a similar arrangement of folded garments and a large candle of some sort. He'd seen one very similar to this in the corner of Commander Radrek's office on the station. He'd always assumed it to be Vulcan.

Moving back to his own sleeping area, he could feel drowsiness creeping up on him again. He sat on the edge of the bed, stifling a yawn, and pulled at his tunic, intending to strip down properly for bed. Meeting resistance, he looked down and for the first time saw the phaser burn across his shoulder that Aeric James had noted earlier. He tugged experimentally and noted, in an abstract manner, how the melted material appeared to have fused into the skin of his shoulder. It didn't particularly hurt, but it was clear he wasn't going to sort it out here and now. It would wait.

As he collapsed onto the bed, it wasn't so much sleep that claimed him as unconsciousness.

"James here," Aeric responded to K'Tan while still on the bridge. "We have had a security breach and a serious breakdown of the chain of command. Dunn is now in route to place D'Callan under house arrest until we can get this all sorted. I could use your help keeping an eye on Joseph while I look into how far this breach goes and the cause of the breakdown. We will need some answers for the captain before he arrives and we don't have much time."

Lester didn't think he was "too keen" at all. The was an emergency on board and he wanted to help. Yes his shift did not start for over an hour but it was logical to increase the manpower in these situations, wasn't it? Obviously Security didn't think so! At least they were gracious enough not to report him to the duty engineering officer in charge, Lester contemplated and slipped out a good dose of Human sarcasm before sheepishly turning his head to see if anybody had noticed.

He stopped at the door of his quarters ready to disengage the lock when he noticed the door wasn't actually locked! Although personnel were not required to lock their doors he always felt a desire to keep his living areas private and never left them unlocked. Hesitating, he found himself wishing he was armed.

"Computer, are there any unauthorised personnel in my quarters?" he said expecting the worst.

His right hand began to tighten into a nervous fist while he reached for his communicator with his left.

"Negative" responded the computer.

"I see..." he whispered.

Perhaps in making a decision to volunteer his services against his instincts he had just forgotten to lock his door in his elevated emotional state.

Lester eased his body out and exhaled in relief. His grip relaxed and became an outstretched index finger reaching for the door mechanism.

Entering, he passed the vacant suite next to his bedroom and headed for the wash basin.

"mmmuurrrrpphhmm....." came the sound that could only have come from inside the room.

Lester didn't like feeling emotional at the best of times and Fear was as distasteful as they came. Turning his back to the wash basin wall he picked up a hairbrush, the best weapon to hand.

"Computer, you told me my quarters were empty!" he whispered

"Incorrect." the computer retorted.

Anger began to manifest itself in Lester having the affect of dampening the fear just a little.

"You enquired if there were any unauthorised personnel in these quarters. There are no unauthorised personnel in these quarters." the disembodied voice continued

"Very well." he said.

Either it was Lester or the computer that wasn't functioning correctly and he wasn't sure which.

"mmmuurrrrpphhmm....." came the sound once more.

"That was real!" Lester was convinced.

Without a thought and relying only on adrenaline, he rushed towards the sound, the spare suite.

"What?!" Lester shouted as his eyes gazed upon the source of the moaning. On the bed in a disarranged state was a diminutive figure in a Starfleet uniform.

"Computer...."

The diminutive blond set an icy gaze on the baby faced Lieutenant, "I don't care who sent you down here, Mr. Dunn. He's not leaving Sickbay. He may be under arrest, but he's my patient...and I'm not releasing him until he's made a complete recovery."

Lieutenant Dunn raised his hands in surrender, "I haven't come to take him away, Doctor. Commander D'Callan is under house arrest...and right now Sickbay is his 'house'."  He cast a nervous glance to Lieutenant Commander K'Tan then back to Doctor Drett who was positioned between Joseph D'Callan and the three security officers who had come to 'arrest' their commanding officer. 

"Someone just tried to kill him...If anything, you three should be here to protect him from whoever has infiltrated this ship!" She had honestly tried to quench the red hot anger that annealed her composure, but the fact that Lieutenant Commander James was the one that ordered his arrest, kept her from achieving an even calm.

Joint post Just X and Startrekfanatic5

The pulse of the silent red light tinted the shuttle bay as Aeric entered to meet Quinn's recently landed shuttle. Aeric's mind was a blur of sensor information from his connection to the ship. His eyes had taken on a slightly dazed look while he split his attention between the crew and the ship. Security had been breached and until they could determine the extent, they had to use every edge to their advantage.

Aeric smiled to himself as the doors to the shuttle slowly opened with the slight hiss of the atmosphere between ship and shuttle equalizing. When Nathan emerged from the doorway, Aeric nodded slowly, his left hand hanging on to the PADD that contained his reports. "Welcome aboard captain, I hope your trip was more uneventful than our situation here."

Quinn exited the shuttlecraft with Took close behind. He didn't say anything to James at first not exactly sure how he was going to proceed. Nathan keep his mind closed tight not wanting to expose his anger or displeasure with his XO. He was not happy with the events that had happened during his leave and under the command of Mr. James but he also wanted to hear all the details before passing judgment. As he approached Aeric, Quinn gave him a quick smile "The trip was..." he paused for a moment "...relaxing. But we have much more important things to talk about." Nathan turned to Nic and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "I'll see you in a few, I have some business to take care of." Took chuckled to himself as he gave Aeric a nod as he passed by him exiting the shuttle bay.

Quinn walked toward the exit. "Walk with me Mr. James..."

Aeric nodded and fell in step beside the captain, "Glad to captain, there is a lot that you need to be brought up to speed on."

JOINT POST BY  JEN & HAWKEYE MEDS

Joseph D'Callan came to from his slumber but kept his eyes closed, he could hear the angry tone of Doctor Drett. He slowly opened his eyes and rolled them from side to side searching for the reason for her tone.  The good Doctor looked quite formidable standing between he and Lieutenant Dunn.

"Ah, Mr. Dunn...doing his duty" he whispered to K'Tan, who was nearest to him.

Lieutenant Commander K'Tan glanced down at Joseph—his mouth moved slightly to form words that could not be heard. The Chief of security slowly heaved himself up and glared at Christopher Dunn.

"What is going on here Lieutenant?"

"Lieutenant Commander James has ordered that you be detained, pending an investigation...." Lieutenant Dunn gave Ryla a nod and offered Joseph a sympathetic smile, "...sorry sir."

"Why?" asked the Trill—the anger now saturated with shock. She turned her eye from Dunn to D'Callan. The question hung in the air as the the three officers stood staring down at Joseph. The hiss of the sickbay doors broke the silence and a Ferengi shuffled in. Ryla turned to see a nurse greet him then show him to a biobed.

Darius went down the last hallway in his assigned section. It was clear.

The ensign breathed a sigh of relief... that turned into an iceberg in his guts. A stray memory from earlier, when he'd run down this exact hall. The memory of a prone Starbase tech laying across the floor, sticking out of an access panel with his shoulders up swallowed in the darkness.

"Come on Shane, think... What was the tech doing? What runs through here?" He closed his eyes and thought back to the schematics he'd studied on the trip from Earth. The answer froze him in place. Right the other side of that panel was a primary conduit, and the secondaries for the emergency warp core ejector. The possibilities for sabotage boggled his mind.

Dropping to one knee, he found the panel stuck in place. It didn't open on the first attempt, or the second. It had been sealed shut.

"Grozit..." He muttered under his breath, reaching up under his uniform tunic, he drew the highly un-regulation durasteel blade he carried and wedged it into the seam.

A few moments later, the blade snapped clean in half, but the panel finally fell open. Sticking his head in, Darius gave it a once over. He was no engineer, but he knew what to look for. Nothing wrong in here.

Falling back on his haunches, Darius' combadge beeped. "We show you at an open panel Ensign, report" came the security officer's voice.

He tapped the badge. "Situation normal. I opened the panel to check a hunch, but it was clean."

"Acknowledged. We'll cancel the alarm. Oh, be advised... D'Callan's been placed on house arrest in sickbay. Dunn's taken over until further notice."

"The Boss is... What? That doesn't make any sense."

"Commander James ordered it, all we know."

Darius let slip his feelings about Commander James without bothering to close the combadge.

"Colorful descriptions don't help the situation, ENSIGN," the man at the other end replied stonily.

'No, but they make me feel better,' Darius thought. "Right, sorry. Anyway, my route's clear. Instructions?"

"Stay ready for now. Security, out." The badge fell silent.

Darius played over recent events in his head. First, D'Callan was poisoned on the station. Second, all hell breaks loose on same Station. Third, operatives from 31 show up and try to take charge of the situation. Fourth, they had an inordinate amount of interest in D'Callan.

If the Boss wasn't 31, he was close to them. And 31 didn't believe in loose ends.

Growling every curse word he could think of, Darius bolted for his quarters.  He'd need his old duty harness and it's wizard's bag of tricks. If someone WAS coming for the Boss, he wanted to be ready.

Sitting on the bio-bed waiting for attention, Galdar surveyed the occupants of sickbay with some concern. The presence of medical personnel was clearly normal, but the three armed guards spaced around the room worried him, not to mention the Lieutenant talking with one of the Doctors and a rather severe looking Lieutenant Commander. Sickbay wasn't a recognized alert duty station for the chief Tactical Officer, yet here was a man who could only be K'Tan.

Thankfully, the guards weren't here for him. They'd raised no protest at his being armed when Ensign Garriss brought him in and the Commander appeared to be ignoring him completely. They offered an unwanted edge of mystery though, that was only somewhat offset by the reassuring presence of Joseph D'Callan. He lay in a bed on the other side of the facility, but even there, something was wrong. The last time he'd seen D'Callan, the human had been departing the starbase for the planet's surface so shouldn't have been here at all.

As he waited, Galdar reflected on his first hours aboard the Arabella. He'd had an unprecedented amount of attention due to his manner of arrival; he'd been up before the Acting First Officer on an informal disciplinary matter; he was probably suspected of collusion in who-knows-what and was now waiting for someone to come and help him remove his clothes. Under different circumstances, the last of these could be...

He winced as he chuckled involuntarily, the movement it created in his shoulder causing his uniform to pull at the fused area. He was feeling more discomfort now and was worried that the charred skin of the wound was starting to come away from the rest of his shoulder. The suspicious dampness at the top of his arm did little to ease that feeling.

He whimpered quietly.

A tall man sat alone in his cell staring at the blue force field before him. Just beyond it, a Starfleet Intelligence officer stared back at him. The incarcerated man stood and approached—the energy causing the hair on his arms and neck to stand as he stepped closer to the force field.

"The information you provided was helpful, but your former Minder remains at large."

The man in the cell scoffed, "I didn't expect you to find Gaius...and if you had, you would be dead before you  felt the burn of the blade as it slipped across your throat." He scratched his chin, "but you tracked down Theran somehow? Didn't you?"

"Yes. We have... agents... in the field who are after him now. What do you know of  Karum D'Callan?" asked the smaller framed SI agent.

The prisoner eyed him a moment in silence.

"Remember, your cooperation will clear her," said the agent—his tone sounding like disapproval.

"Against my better judgment, I've outed two friends...if I knew who this 'Karum' was, I would have told you what I knew about him before I ever turned on them."

"Would Dennis?"

The prisoner straightened at the inquiry, which made the agent smile. "We found his program in the main frame of the Arabella during repairs. Dennis has quite an extensive database of 31 knowledge, which is one of the reasons why we acted as quickly as we have." He narrowed his eyes, "too many spies have slipped in and out of this crew—all acting under the assumption that they were but shadows to us...  to good to be detected by the likes of Starfleet Intelligence... Encrypted messages can be decoded." A grin formed on the agent's face, "but you already know that don't you?" At that, the man behind the field looked down at his feet.

"Well, I have a mission to direct... I'll leave to your thoughts. I'm sure you have some details to recall for the next time I come," said the agent. "As always, we appreciate your cooperation. I'm sure Theran will thank you too, once we bring him in."

Ryla looked once more at the Ferengi, then back to the three officers.  No one had answered the question she posed. No one would tell her why Joseph was being arrested. She wondered if Lieutenant Commander James was overstepping his authority on the matter. She glanced to K'Tan. She hadn't known him long enough to understand what his various facial expressions meant, but the one he wore now hinted that he knew more than he was willing to tell. She crossed her arms, "Fine. Gentlemen, if you'll excuse me...I have another patient to take care of and I don't want to keep him waiting." She stooped to pick up the empty bottle that Joseph had dropped on the floor, in an effort to hide it from her earlier, and handed it to K'Tan. "Maybe next time you'll bring one of these for me." Ryla crossed the floor to meet the Ferengi who patiently waited for medical attention.

"Zero point power system is online," the computer of the Zephyr said in Rory's voice. It was one of the few conceits that she allowed herself when aiding her father in the construction of the new shuttle. The diamond shaped craft was far smaller than the Aurora and closer to a Type I shuttlepod in size. It was built for speed and maneuverability with limited weaponry. While it was warp capable, it was designed to reach warp five at best. Miniaturization and advances since the time of the NX-01 had allowed the Zephyr to pack much more in the smaller frame.

Rory sat in the co-pilot's chair, located directly behind and above the pilot's seat and tested the warp coils. She had heard alert and chose to remain at her station. Every inch of available space was put into use for the prototype and designed to support up to four crew in minimal comfort. The design of the craft gave it a low sensor profile and size for size, the ship held more RCS thrusters than any other shuttle in use. In theory, this made it the most maneuverable craft in the fleet, but it was a theory that had yet to be tested outside of the simulator. The limited weapon systems were complete, but still offline. There was still so much to do.

Rory smiled to herself as the systems went green from the active power core. "Computer, initiate connection to the Arabella primary computer core and begin download of star charts and systems information. Also update beta software with current LCARS."

"Working," replied the Zephyr's computer.

Rory slid out of her chair and took a seat on edge the rear bench, where the girls had fallen asleep. Although holograms normally did not get tired, she felt that way. It was something that her father had chosen to incorporate into her design and she cherished her ability to sleep and dream. It made her feel more El-Aurian.

Rory stroked the hair of her sister and closed her eyes. "Computer, wake me in ten minutes and begin reboot when transfer is complete."

Joint post by Feathers and Jen

"That's a nasty wound you have there. Why didn't you come to see me as soon as you came aboard, Ensign?" asked Ryla as she stepped to the Ferengi's bed side.

"I was otherwise...occupied at the time.", he apologized, "So much so that I didn't notice the...problem". He winced again as the doctor gently probed the area. "Since then I seem to have been catching up on my sleep"

Without pausing in her work, Ryla gave Galdar Ferengi Rule of Acquisition Number Ninety Three, in his own tongue. She cleared her throat as she opened the tricorder, "Act without delay...the sharp knife cuts quickly."

Galdar opened his mouth, then closed it, giving his com badge a startled glare as if accusing the universal translator of tricking him. Looking up again, he caught the doctor's eye and saw the suppressed mirth.

"I bow to your obvious wisdom, Doctor." He said gravely. "As long as the knife is cutting uniform and not the skin of my shoulder, that is." He tried for a brave smile but felt he achieved little more than a weak grimace.

Ryla smiled at his remark as she passed the tricorder over him. After a moment she looked up to meet his nervous brown eyes, "we haven't been properly introduced." The medical tricorder whirred softly as she continued, " Lieutenant Ryla Drett, Assistant Chief Medical Officer. I'd shake your hand, but that should probably wait until I've repaired the damage you sustained." She set the tricorder aside, removed a dermal regenerator from it's place and activated it. A tingling sensation touched Galdar's shoulder as the device mended the ugly wound. "There you go. Good as new." The Trill put the implement down and offered her hand to the Ferengi. "And you are?"

"Galdar, Si...Lieutenant. Ensign Galdar. Shuttle pilot," he paused, releasing her hand and then flexed his arm, exercising his repaired tissues.

"Until today I was assigned to the Starbase. Today I joined the crew of this ship." He glanced, sidelong at K'Tan and the guards, "Tomorrow may bring other surprises."

Reaching round with his good arm, he gingerly touched his shoulder, almost caressing the smoothness of the newly restored orange skin.

"It appears I am also in need of a new uniform."

Ryla picked at an imaginary piece of lint on his jacket. "I don't know. While gross, this bloody tunic has sort of an edgy appearance. It may get you an Eelwasser, on the house, if you swing by the Afterburner." The doctor suspected the wound he obtained had something to do with the alert status they were currently under. It was possible she could find out more about what was going on, but there was a reason why she was being kept in the dark and her three hundred years of experience told her to wait until it had been volunteered. That, and she trusted K'Tan. Rather than press Galdar further, she decided to let it go...for now.

The corridors of the Arabella still glowed red indicating the ship's alert status as Lester made his way from sickbay.

He didn't enter the medical center, instead depositing Ensign Galdar just outside. His presence was unnecessary and would contravene the ship's current alert status; at least that is the explanation he gave to his new Ferengi 'room mate'. There was no need to inform Galdar of his dislike of Starfleet Medical and its various divisions.

With the immediate crisis of escorting the injured Ensign to medical attention over, Garriss began to ponder the revelation that his quarters were no longer his alone. It was a situation he had never considered. During his service on starbases it was never an issue, due to their size every crew member had the luxury of their own personal living space, however small, regardless of rank.

The shadow of insecurity began to waft itself around Lester's psyche like a wailing banshee, raising his pulse and he began to lose control. He felt the need to hurry and began to walk at such a pace for theturbolift at the end of the corridor that he was practically running. His vision blinkered, all he could see were the turbolift doors getting closer and closer when all of a sudden the doors opened attempting to allow a passenger to exit. Being too close and moving too quickly to stop, they collided, knocking Lester down on his rear and initiating a loud grunt from the passenger whose build being larger than Lester's saved them the humiliation of being knocked down.

"I'm... I'm sorry. I didn't see you there, I was...." Lester stuttered.

"You were ordered to quarters Ensign! What is your business here?" the passenger interrupted.

Recognising the voice Lester looked up to see the figure of the security officer he had encountered earlier and knew he had some explaining to do.

Joint post by Jen and Feathers

The Trill lifted her tricorder and examined it once more through narrowed eyes, "have you been consorting with any Orion women lately?"

"Doctor?", the Ferengi almost squeaked,. "No, no...I haven't...that is I never...that isn't to say I wouldn't..." His mouth clamped shut and he coloured slightly, looking rapidly from left to right to see who was listening. He took a deep breath and his face took on a guarded look. "Forgive me, Doctor, but are you attempting humor at my expense?"

Ryla lifted her pale brown eyes from the tricorder at the sound of Galdar's embarrassed gasp. She shook her head slowly and smiled, "Not at all, Ensign Galdar. Please forgive me, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable." She turned the device in her hands to share the data with her Ferengi patient. "My findings indicate that your Oplecantus levels have peaked." She closed the tricorder and pocketed it before returning the dermal regenerator to the table. "Orion pheromones are known to cause that. You may feel exceedingly weary after the effects have worn off...it's a side effect. Individuals who've been subjected to these chemicals are highly susceptible to suggestion. Do you recall doing anything out of the ordinary today?"

Galdar blinked and looked over at Joseph D'Callan for a moment before returning his attention to the Doctor. With a small smile, he shook his head slightly before speaking. "Doctor, most of what has taken place since I came off shift has been 'out of the ordinary' with the exception of packing my bag for transfer."

"Finding the shuttle bay empty when I went looking for Nick. That was unusual." He paused, " Then when Mr D'Callan's brother and I were talking, all hell broke loose on the station. That was distinctly unusual. A running phaser fight on the station isn't 'normal' either..."

Lieutenant Dunn, overhearing the conversation, stepped to Ryla's side and interrupted, "How long have you known Lieutenant Commander D'Callan's brother, Ensign?"

Galdar looked at him blankly for a moment before speaking. "Well, Sir, I never actually met him until today". Rubbing his eyes with the heels of his hands, he tried again, an edge of uncertainty creeping into his voice, "Thinking about it, I didn't know the Lieutenant Commander HAD a brother until today." He paused once more, then said very softly, "If I'm totally honest, I don't actually know that the Lieutenant Commander DOES have a brother." His hands dropped to his lap and he looked questioningly at the two Lieutenants.

"Does he?", he whispered.

D'Callan eye ball'd Dunn who hovered over Galdar.

"Earning your new pips aye Chris?"

Dunn straightened and quickly turned back to the Lieutenant Commander.

"I'm sorry Sir, but its Commander James's orders that i investigate"

D'Callan looked up at K'Tan who raised a eye brow.

"Did you hear that mate. I tell you what Chris, i've got another pole here that needs greasing if you fancy coming over and having a look"

K'Tan coughed and turned to hide his snigger as Dunn began to look flushed.

"Sir, i'm sorry but...."

D'Callan butted in.

"Oh no need to apologise mate, I like nothing more than to be confined to my bed surrounded by burly red shirts. But do you know what really grinds my wheels?"

Dunn shook his head and let out a quiet answer.

"No Sir."

D'Callan leant forward.

"The fact you didnt even bring me any grapes"

Joint post by Jen and Feathers

It was apparent by Dunn's expression that he was hurt by the Chief Of Security's accusations. Ryla could understand Joseph's frustration, but his manner was atypical and his anger was misdirected. "I don't mean to interrupt your small talk gentlemen, but I do have other patients here in Sickbay—your elevated voices will wake them. And Joseph, if you don't tone it down I'll inject you with something stronger than that ale you just downed." 


Dunn and D'Callan glared at one another a moment before the young lieutenant turned back to the Ferengi Ensign. "Yes, Mr. D'Callan has a brother," he said in hushed voice, "and you may have unwittingly aided and abetted him."


Ryla narrowed her eyes in thought, "unwittingly aided and abetted him?"


Dunn turnned to look at the doctor and paused, deciding whether or not he had said too much in front of her. "Uh...he...may have helped an operative board the ship and disable half the station's shuttle bays."


"Well...I think Mr. Galadar may have been chemically influenced by this operative. I found evidence that indicates as much. If this person was the same individual who poisoned Joseph, I wouldn't be surprised if he has the ability to synthesize Orion pheremones...."


Christopher nodded, "that could explain why the guards were so lax in their duties in the transporter room."


Blinking in confusion, Galdar spoke up "The Commander's brother was with me when the shuttlebays were disabled. Lieutenant Andrews made that call from the Tellarite shuttle. We both heard him...and saw the older man board the shuttle with him before it escaped the bay."


"An older man? Is that so?" said Dunn, "Does Lieutenant Commander James know this?"


"I have informed him of Lieutenant Andrews involvement, but I haven't provided a more detailed report yet. As for Mr. D'Callan, he...departed before Commander James could get any useful information from him." replied Galdar.


Dunn stepped back and, with a nod of approval from Ryla, moved into the office tapping his badge. Galdar heard the muted tones of Aeric James on the end of the channel but couldn't make out the detail of what was said. Even Ferengi ears had their limits.

Joint Post by Startrekfanatic5 and Just X

Aeric walked quietly out of the shuttle bay with the captain beside him. His eyes held a distant look as he continued to maintain his link with the Arabella. The halls of the ship were clear of traffic. Those that were not on duty were in their quarters and that gave him the liberty that was needed to talk.

"What is going on with my ship, Mr. James?" Quinn asked as they walked.

Aeric sighed. "You should not have come back. Everything is fine and being handled."

Quinn's stopped and faced Aeric, his brow raised. "Fine Aeric? Why is it that the Delta shift commander had to inform me of what has been going on here? This isn't how I like seeing my ship run. My XO should have brought these things to my attention."

Aeric nodded slowly and considered his words carefully before speaking. "I should have monitored the communications channels sooner. You should have been able to enjoy your vacation while we sorted things here."

Quinn shook his head and continued to walk down the corridor. "Have you forgotten Mr. James that this is my ship? If there is a problem with it then I should know immediately. Anything else is unacceptable." Quinn said as he stopped again and turned to face the acting XO. "Have we given you more responsibility than you can handle with this position? Are you distracted by your personal life? Something isn't adding up."

"Nor should it be captain." Aeric took another slow breath and met the man's eyes. His mind was abuzz with the raw data he received from the ship. It was a white noise of controlled chaos with James at the center. "It is possible that we have a cloaked agent from Section 31 aboard the ship. This isn't the first time that some of the crew has had contact with 31. We need to be very through in every step that is taken and what we say. A very thorough investigation is currently being conducted and D'Callan has been arrested and relieved of duty as a part of that investigation. Everything is completely under control. Captain, I am asking for your trust and patience while this investigation is concluded. This ship is not the Tiberius. Everything that I have done and will do is in the best interest of this ship and her crew. Would it be too much to ask for you to get back on that shuttle and finish your vacation while I see this through?"

Nathan looked stunned, "You're serious. You want me to turn around and head back to Ogus II and pretend that none of this has happened. I thought you knew me better Mr. James." Quinn turned away from the man standing in front of him and continued to walk into the turbolift. Aeric entered right behind. "Bridge!! " Nathan said as the doors slid shut. He turned back to Aeric. "As for trusting you Mr. James, I trusted you enough to make you my first officer, but I'm currently regretting that decision."

The doors slid open onto the bridge, Nathan and Aeric exited and headed towards the Captain's Ready Room. Quinn entered walked over to his desk and sat down. Aeric stood ridged on the opposite side of the desk. "Now Mr. James, I want to know what is happening on my ship and I want to know NOW!!"

Joint Post by Startrekfanatic5 and Just X

"Captain, as much as I would like to explain all of this to you, I can't," Aeric sighed. He knew his duty and as much as he wanted to fill Quinn in, that very duty prevented it. "I'm under orders to not speak to you on this matter."

Nathan sat there lips pressed tightly together. "Orders... Whose orders??" Quinn demanded.

Aeric eyes shifted from Quinn's for just a moment," I'm sorry sir but I can not give you that information."

Quinn stood and walked over to Aeric and stopped inches from his face. "I am your Captain and this is my ship. If someone is given my officer orders I insist on knowing who it is." Aeric didn't move "Sir please" he said quietly. Nathan stepped back and took a deep breath. "I'm sorry Mr. James but I don't like not knowing what is happening on my own ship."

Nathan focused his entire mind into Aeric's. James was a trained in telepathy but no match for his Captain. The wall surrounding these secrets dropped and Quinn delved further into the recess of Aeric's mind. Images of unrelated event touched Quinn's thoughts, Aria, a beautiful woman Nathan did not know, Sevryll, but he did not take any notice to them as he did not want to invade Aeric privacy. He was looking for one thing and he was about to find it. Suddenly as if hit by a wall white noise filled Quinn's mind. Nathan staggered a little at the amount of information he was receiving, but none of it made sense to him.. it sounded as if it was binary code.

Nathan withdrew his mind for Aeric's. "Very well Commander you leave me no choice." Quinn pressed his comm badge "Captain to security, please report to my ready room". Nathan immediately got a response. "On our way Captain." Moments later, two men entered the room. Nathan turned to them. "I want you to place Mr. James in the brig for in subornation." Quinn turned his back on Aeric and stood in front of a portal looking out at the stars as the two men escorted Aeric out of the ready room.

JOINT POST BY FEATHERS, JEN & HAWKEYEMEDS

Lieutennant Christopher Dunn walked back into sickbay, looking distinctly unhappy. He'd only just been promoted from Ensign and now he had to keep the boss he looked up to under close supervision and
question a young Ensign recovering in sickbay. As he walked past D'Callan, he glanced quickly, almost furtively, at his boss who's eyes did not leave him.

"Excuse me Doctor," he said quietly to the Trill, "I'm afraid I've been asked to obtain a little more detail from Ensign Galdar"

Ryla looked at Dunn for a moment then gestured to Galdar with an open hand, "by all means, Lieutenant. If you don't mind my hovering, I have a job to do as well. All new crewmembers are required to undergo a
routine physical, and since the Ensign is already here...."

Chris nodded once then turned and approached Galdar who looked slightly embarrassed at his state of undress in the presence of so many alert security personnel. He took a deep breath - this was going to be uncomfortable.

"Ensign, I've been ordered to ask you some more questions."

Galdar sat up, once again glancing quickly at D'Callan who gave him a quick wink in reply.

"OK Sir, erm.... please go ahead."

Dunn sat down on the edge of the bio-bed and, leaning forward, looked Galdar in the eye.

"You're a Ferengi Ensign. Unusual for a Ferengi to join Starfleet isn't it?"

Galdar rocked backwards a little, as if physically assulted, while mentally groping for a response. It wasn't the first time his species had come up as a discussion point and he was sure that it wouldn't be the last. In the current situation, however, the question was much more disturbing than it had ever been before. In the confines of a late
night cadet discussion, it was a fairly innocent point of debate and, perhaps, a little ribbing. In the context of a major security breach by an illegal and possibly immoral organization, it took on a much more sinister and menacing overtone.

Breathing deeply, Galdar straightened his back and mustered as much of an officer's bearing as he could before answering. "It is unusual Sir, but it's not unheard of as I'm sure you're aware. With the son of the Nagus himself holding a Starfleet commission, it is a creer choice that is at least tolerated if not accepted among my people."

Dunn looking unimpressed, pressed ahead. "But it's in your nature to acquire gold pressed latinum, to make money, to be greedy. How long have you been associated with 31?"

Ryla gave Chris a bewildered look. "Where did that come from?" she mumbled disapprovingly. She was about ready to toss him out of Sickbay despite the orders he was given.

Galdar sat motionless for a full thirty seconds, looking at Lieutenant Dunn and saying nothing. He'd feared he would be implicated in whatever was going on here but he hadn't expected it to be handled so directly, so clumsily or so publically! He also hadn't expected such a direct racial slur. It didn't help that he could hear much of what he hated about his father in his questioners tone.

He held on to his temper but only by a thread. Afterwards he would admit that it was probably only the fact that Dunn had the backing of a full security squad that prevented him from committing an act of supreme insubordination.

Gritting his teeth, he stuttered out his response. The anger was almost palpably layered on every word "'31' as you call it was unknown to me until I was escorted from the shuttle bay at the orders of Commander James earlier today. Had Ensign Shane not been kind enough to fill me in, it would be unknown to me still. If I have any
association with them then I would estimate that it commenced at about the time a stranger entered shuttle bay 4 on Starbase 416 and introduced himself to me as Lieutenant Commander D'Callan's brother."

After pausing a moment, he continued, sarcasm now dripping from every word "As to what is or is not in my nature, then I fear that I owe you an apology. I had thought you to be a simple human...Sir...and therefore disabled in the area of telepathic ability. Had I realized that you are of a species that can not only determine what's in someone's 'nature' at a first meeting, but can also 'read' a Ferengi then I would obviously have behaved more appropriately."

As she continued her exam, Ryla smiled at Galdar's well delivered rebuttal and suppressed the desire to applaud him for it.

Finished, Galdar slouched once again, almost panting from the effort he'd expended. He didn't meet Dunn's gaze, instead looking appealingly first at D'Callan and then the Doctor.

Doctor Drett read his unspoken petition and interjected as she drew blood from Galdar for his physical. "I think you've had an immense burden placed on your shoulders Lieutenant, and the stress of your new responsibility has affected your judgment. Mr. Galdar isn't a criminal, he's a witness...and the Ferengi people aren't delinquents."

She tossed the last comment out with a bit more emotion than she intended, but Dunn's line of questioning was rather offensive...even if it wasn't his intent.

Embarrassed by Ryla's rebuke, Christopher blushed and stammered out an apology, "I'm sorry, Ensign. I shouldn't have taken that tone with you...and I didn't mean to insult you or your people."

Galdar looked back over at D'Callan who nodded slowly and flicked his eyes up at Dunn and gave a smile.

Sighing, Galdar locked eyes with the embarassed lieutenant. "Apology accepted Sir. What other information do you need?"

Christopher relaxed slightly He loved being part of the security team, but found having to question one of his own crewmates very awkward. He changed his tactic and went for his own personal appraoch, something he felt he should have done from the start.

"Ensign, when you were with the Section 31 agent, did you notice anything strange about his appearence?"

Galdar relaxed as well, and pulled the sheet up over his torso, thinking for a moment. "Strange? No, Sir or at least not physically. You have to understand that humans I do not know appear very much alike to me. Some differentiation is possible, but that takes practice and I am not yet..experienced enough to make such judgements." He jumped as the Doctor probed a delicate spot. Refusing to even glance in her direction, he continued "The only thing I could describe as strange is that he gave no name, simply informing me that I should call him Sir. Unnusual for someone out of uniform in a Starfleet facility. It's unnusual that I should comply with such an instruction too."

Chris tapped his PADD quickly "Your colleague. Lt Andrews. How long had you known him? Did he seem different over the past few days"

Galdar grimaced slightly before answering. "It's odd really. I've known him for the last four months, ever since I first arrived on the base. We work different shifts but our duty rotation means we've become friends of a sort. To be honest, Nick was the one person aboard that I thought I knew better than anyone." He shook his head, almost sadly. "Earlier this week I was due to relieve him aboard ship. We were on shuttle bay duty here, overseeing the repair schedule and shuttle rotation. I arrived on duty slightly early and Nick wasn't around. He eventually emerged from a jeffries tube..77?..yes, 77 without his com badge. He retrieved it shortly after I pointed it out."

"I went to see him later that day, right after getting permission to transfer to the Arabella. I had some trouble getting him to the door and once he did let me in...I mean I know he's human, but his quarters really were a mess. Much more so than usual."

Dunn raised an eyebrow at the implied racial slur but let it slide. 'One all', he thought.

"That was when I found the detonator in his quarters." Galdar concluded.

Ryla moved closer to Christopher and whispered a warning, "One more question, Lieutenant..."

"Galdar, thank you for your help, again I'm sorry for any insults I may have made earlier. I have one last question for you."

Galdar nodded and waited as Chris scanned his PADD.

"Do you have any idea what Andrews involvement in all of this was apart from the detonator?"

Shaking his head, Galdar looked at the floor. "I've asked myself this a few times, Sir, and don't really have an answer. He was obviously piloting the shuttle and was probably responsible for re-arming it once security had finished with it a few days ago. I'm assuming he set the detonators to prevent anyone from following him but why he got involved in all of this and who it was he was carrying, I have no idea."

Joint post Hawkeyemeds & Startrekfanatic5

Quinn walked into sickbay and glanced at the security guards. He found Joseph D'callan at the far end of the room. Joseph turned his head and saw the Captain walking towards him and immediately sat up in bed and winced.

"Still in pain Mr. D'Callan"

Joseph looked up..

"If I'm honest sir, its more like bed sores"

Quinn pulled up a chair and looked over to Dunn as he approached and stood at attention. Nathan nodded "at ease Lieutenant, please leave us." Dunn nodded and walked over to the other two security guards at the entrance.

"Mr. James has been relieved of duty for not co-operating and answering my questions. I want to know exactly what happened. "

Joseph took a deep breath and concentrated on his words as he spoke.

"I'd had a very busy time before you left. I'd completed the Bowers case, welcomed the new Ensign assigned to my team, locked Bowers up for fighting and then had my meeting with Mr. James. I came out of the meeting feeling somewhat drained but happy that I was finally going to enjoy my shore leave. I packed, got my cricket gear ready and headed to the station. I walked through the doors and the first thing I saw was a blurred shape of a person, I put it down to being just tired as the image vanished near enough straight away. I then went to the store and picked up some provisions, I ate a small bit of lunch and then headed to the shuttle bay to be flown to the planet. It was there that I gave Ensign Galdar, oh he's over there by the way" Joseph pointed to the Ferengi sitting on the biobed being examed by Dr. Drett. He continued "I gave him his orders and I sat in the shuttle and waited for my pilot. I waited for a while but no one turned up. I decided to go and find out where the pilot was when I suddenly felt dizzy, thinking about it now I had a severe headache and then a pain shot through my stomach, I coughed up blood and collapsed. I remember crawling out and hitting my comm badge for help. I then saw the same blurred vision I saw on the promenade come forward, it bent down, and he looked so familiar but in a dream like way."

Quinn nodded, "And then..."

"It went dark, the pain in my head and stomach over whelmed me and then I woke up here in sick bay. It was here that Lt Dunn informed me that my brother was here. I then guessed that maybe it was Theran who I had seen in the shuttle bay. I gave permission to come aboard to see me, but then, well it all seems quite hazy. I then had a communication from him, he sounded different some how, but he sent me the information that I gave Mr. James. It was all garbled information; nothing made sense except for some words stood out. I worked out that they spelt out the words 'I am the old man be warned', I could only imagine that somehow the old man was Theran, not the man claiming to be my brother.

Quinn raised his hand and Joseph fell silent.

"So you didn't see your brother?"

D'Callan shook his head, "No Sir."

"Please continue Mr. D'Callan" Nathan said with a slight nod.

Joseph stretched his back and continued.

"The thing is Sir, I know security protocol like the back of my hand. I allowed my brother to come aboard but I know I would have ordered security to hold him in sick bay until I got there or he was to be accompanied at all time to sick bay. The thing is Sir I didn't and I have no idea why. I'm at a total loss."

Quinn took a deep breath.. "hmm this still isn't adding up." Nathan looked into Joseph eyes and concentrated, he swam into his mind and found no opposition to his probing, Joseph was telling the truth, but there was something else....  Quinn stood abruptly turned and headed out of sickbay.

Joint post by Startrekfanatic5 and Just X

Quinn was quickly walking down the corridor when his badge chirped. "Captain, we are receiving a Code 47 communication from Starfleet," Ensign Danner said from his temporary posting at operations. It was an ultra secure communication that happened so rarely that the ensign had never expected to see one in his lifetime.

Nathan stopped in his tracks and said under his breath "Code 47", he then raised his voice. "I'll take it in my Ready Room."

Moments later the captain had barely settled into his seat when the communications channel opened to display the face of Rear Admiral Shawas, the Deputy Chief of Starfleet intelligence. "Captain Quinn, I know that recent events have abruptly ended your vacation, so I won't take up much of your time."

Nathan nodded "It's good to see you Admiral Shawas, it's been a while. I hope you are doing well."

"Yes, I am doing fine captain, thank you and I will keep this brief." The middle aged human woman said softly. "Under the authority of General Orders 5 and 11, you will release Lieutenant Commander Aeric James from the brig and allow him to complete his assigned task."

Quinn sat there slightly stunned, " I see.. Orders 5 and 11? Do I at least get an explanation as to what has been happening?"

Shawas raised her hand and halted Quinn. "I am sorry Captain, but this is a classified operation and the specifics of the operation is none of your concern."

Nathan in turned cut her off. "I beg to differ Admiral, these events have involved my crew and ship and I will not allow them to continue without an explanation."

The soft spoken woman's voice raised with authority. "Mr. Quinn I can easily remove you from duty, but I am asking... no I am ordering that you release Lt. Commander James.. NOW!!"

Nathan took a deep breath and gave a curt nod. The screen went blank. Five minutes later Quinn entered the Brig. Aeric James stood at attention behind the force field. The Captain cleared his throat. " Mr. James I have been ordered to release you and allow you to continue with your duties." Nathan gave the security guard a nod who then de-activated the field. Aeric walked by Nathan who grabbed his upper arm and said very quietly so Aeric could only hear. "If anyone is harmed on this ship because of your actions I will personally see that you are held responsible and prosecuted for them."

Aeric didn't reply as Quinn released his arm and exited the brig.

Aeric shook his head slowly as he tapped his comm badge.  "Computer open an encrypted channel to the USS Stalwart. Lt commander James to Captain Jefferson."

"Jefferson here," replied the gruff male voice of the captain of the Defiant Class vessel that had recently arrived in the system.

"Is the prisoner ready for my visit?" Aeric asked as he head out of the brig.

"The prisoner is ready commander," Jefferson replied. "Let us know when you are ready for transport."

Aeric finally ended his connection to the Arabella then spoke again. "Energize."

Joint Post by Jen and Just X

"Did you come to poke a stick at an angry bear?" Asked the prisoner as he glared at Aeric James through the force field. He wanted to kill the Starfleet officer, and he would have... if the field was deactivated and his binders released.

Aeric sighed, "You brought this on yourself. The life you chose had consequences and this is the result of your choice."

He had every reason to dislike the prisoner. It was Aeric who had pushed this man and Sevryll together in the current timeline. Had he known then what he knew now about this man, he would never have mentioned her to the oaf during their Dom Jot match. But, it wasn't about Aeric or the prisoner—it was about the lives that they were both intertwined in. "Is there anything you want me to tell her?"

David Locke felt his muscles tense at the mention of his wife. He imagined the sound that Aeric's broken neck would make when he got his hands on him; it made him smile. "I'll pass my own messages along. Being bonded to a Vulcan has it's benefits...you feel them no matter the distance." He stood from the metal bed and took three intimidating steps toward his visitor.

Aeric raised a brow, "I know what it's like to be bonded to... but I was talking about your daughter, M'Rynn. She deserves better." Aeric moved closer to the force field, "You should have left 31 for Sevryll, when she asked you to."

David suddenly struck the field separating them—the result was a violent pop of energy. Aeric hadn't moved, which made only made the prisoner's anger burn hotter.  "31 has a retirement plan... it's called 'death'. I've looked into it—can't say I've been too eager to reach it." The two men glared at each other at length before David continued, "I know you haven't come here for a message. What do you want you smug kre'nath?"

Aeric ignored the Vulcan slight. Instead he offered a weak smile and began to pace as he gathered his thoughts. "I'm torn. Part of me wants to see you brought to justice for the wrong that you have committed in the name of the Federation. The other part realizes that if that happens, the people that I care about will end up suffering the most... Did you know that Starfleet Intelligence is looking into Sevryll because of you?"

A mirthless chuckle slowly welled within David, "Why do you think I'm here? They wanted to court-martial her. I'm volunteering everything I know in exchange for my wife's pardon." His fell into step with Aeric's pacing.

The Lieutenant Commander crossed his arms and sighed, "...What are we going to do for her?" The two men stopped and faced one another.

"I'm doing it, now," David growled as he held up his hands to display the binders.

Aeric took another slow breath, "I know you believe that 31 is just, and you've been working with them because of that. I can respect the intent behind your actions, but I can't agree with them..." He paused a moment staring into the other man's eyes. "I don't know what to tell to your daughter. I'm not sure if I should bring her to see you, or keep her far away from this cell as possible. What would you have me do?"

"She's use to her father's absence, but with her mother and brother missing...she needs me." David turned a hard glare on Aeric as he remembered a promise the man once made him. "You told me you would watch them while I was on Romulus. I guess I misunderstood the meaning behind your words... all you did is watch, but you promised to protect."

"Sometimes the best laid plans fail, especially when fighting the Borg and trying keep your vessel in one piece.... I did the best I could to look after them," Aeric replied wistfully as he began to pace once more. "Sevryll and our daughters are going to bring N'Vall home. Sairyn has an entire species and a fleet of ships looking for him, and I doubt that she and Sevryll will let anything get in their way."

David tried to ignore the plural use of the word "daughter" or the pairing of  "our" to that word. Aria was a clone that Aeric had described as his 'child'...he even called Sevryll her 'mother'. Had he used Sevryll to create another clone? Aria had been the source of his hatred for Aeric. He worked his jaw and focused on his own daughter. "I don't want M'rynn to see me in this cell. If it can be arranged, I'd like to visit her on the Arabella."

"I don't know if it's in my power to do that, David. We're in the middle of an operation and we still don't know who can be trusted. If they let you out, even for a brief meeting, you know it will paint a target on your back and M'rynn will be caught in the middle. I'll see if I can get a holo-communicator installed in your cell, to allow you to visit her on the holodeck. I know it's not the same, but at least it's something."

Aeric glanced behind him to see the silent guards standing within earshot. The Lieutenant Commander closed his eyes and reached out with his mind. We both know the reason captured 31 operatives are never brought to trial. How long do you think you have before your people try to silence you? And are you sure that your former employers won't see Sevryll and the kids as a threat or an example to be made after your escape? For their sake, I hope you're not planning anything.

Joint Post by Jen and Just X

David's expression shifted despite his effort to hide the helplessness he felt. He knew Aeric was right. He was a dead man and he wouldn't be able to flee that outcome, not without risking the lives of his wife and children. He turned back to face Aeric, "I knew you came to poke a stick at me."

Aeric frowned. "I came to see you, hoping that you had a grasp the situation and...I wanted to let you know that I respect what you have done for your family."

The prisoner sneered at his visitor, "I don't need your respect and I've got a firm grasp on what's going on— Once I'm out of the way, you'll have a clear path to Sevryll."

Aeric hesitated a moment before replying. "We are not too different, you and I. We're both duty bound, to a fault. And we both manipulated the truth to get what we want. I kept silent and you took a wife.  I'm involved because I don't want her coming back to a court-martial. And you can rest easy, I haven't been chasing after her—I respect the vows she keeps. I'm just trying to help."

Aeric projected as he spoke aloud, [i ]your death will hurt her and I don't want to see that happen. I'll see if I can find you a way out of this, but if I succeed you can never come back. Make sure that she is in the clear...then distanced yourself from her so that she and the twins can't be used to draw you out again.[/i]

David laughed as he gave his unspoken reply, [i ]you're not going to take down the whole organization.[/i] "And there will be no place safe to shuffle me off to. I'll be hunted down... I'm already dead," he whispered.

"If there is anything I can do, have them contact me."

"Right...they'll be just as cooperative as I have been," replied David sarcastically.

Aeric sighed. I have no choice but to follow this through with this, but my only priority is to ensure your family's safety.

"It's my priority as well," said the Terran through clinched teeth. He didn't like the fact that he and Aeric had common goals.

The Arabella's acting XO nodded then moved to grip his hands behind his back, "The other purpose of my visit has to do with property, which belongs to me, that went missing from the Aurora around the time of your visit last year. It turned up in the hands of another 31 agent recently. Do you have any idea how that happened?"

A slight smile spread over David's face, "The personal cloaking device... Yes. Acquiring the tech from your vessel was an extracurricular mission that I carried out before we set out to rescue Krell. It was supposed to give me the upper hand during my Romulus operation."

"Now someone else has stolen it from you?" Aeric shook his head, "This isn't some phaser than can be easily replicated. It's not even tech that the Federation should have. What did you do with it after you took it? Did you try to copy it?"

David frowned, "No. The techs did. They created a new device for Theran when he joined my mission. With all the impressive telepaths aboard, surely one of you could sense his presence..."

"Yes, I saw the flawed copy, but I was more concerned with the original," Aeric said. "As for the rogue Mr. D'Callan, he hasn't gone anywhere that we didn't want him to go. Our ship is more than just telepaths and things are currently in motion to end this. I just hope that when this is over, everything is will have come to a conclusion. No further lies. No one coming to settle the score...."

"Good luck with that," said David with a smile that didn't quite make it to his eyes. "I'm no telepath, but I don't see any silver linings in your future. Unfortunately, Section 31 doesn't forget and it never forgives. Tread lightly..."

Aeric nodded slowly. "I will and thank you for your time Mr. Locke."

David growled something under his breath and fell back onto his bed.

JOINT POST BY HAWKEYEMEDS, FEATHERS & JUST X

Joseph felt tired, he was annoyed that he couldnt remember a lot of things, was he that drowsy when he gave the order to allow Theran on board without guards? He was also annoyed that he had let his emotions shine by having a go at Christopher. He turned to look at his fellow patient.

"Hey Galdar, how ya doin' mate?"

Galdar jumped slightly and looked over, "Oh, erm, I'm tired Sir, and you?"

"Been better mate, been better. I've got a lot of thinking to do."

Galdar looked away but his couldn't maintain his disinterest for long. After all, what else was there to do right now. With a glance at the nearest guard he turned to face the Lieutenant Commander again.

Being stuck in sickbay and on house arrest had effectively cut Joseph off from the information flow of the ship. If he was going to get answers, he would need to find a new source of information. Perhaps a Ferengi source. "So ensign, do you know anything else about this red alert?"

Galdar  shrugged but looked concerned. "Not really sir. I think it has to do with your brother coming aboard. The XO did not like the idea of a rogue operative aboard the ship."

D'Callan didn't look at him but cut him off.

"Galdar, I don't know who you met, but it wasn't my brother. He's currently in disguise." Joe said in a voice that held more of an edge to it as he thought back to the encrypted communication.

Galdar noticed the obvious change in Josephs tone.

"So was your brother not here at all."

D'Callan remained still, deep in thought. "He's here, but I couldn't begin to guess where or what he looks like other than an old man."

Galdar sat up.

"He was disguised as an older Hu-mon, Sir?"

Jospeh turned and looked at him "Yes Galdar, he was"

"There was an older human that stole a shuttle with the Lieutenant Andrews, my friend...", his voice hardened suddenly "my friend who shot me in the shoulder. It might be him."

Joseph looked up and reached out and tapped the security panel.

"D'Callan to Captain Quinn. I believe my brother is on a stolen shuttle craft with an accomplice from the Starbase personnel."

Quinn reponded almost straight away. "Thank you Mr. D'Callan."

Joint post by Just X and Feathers

Aeric hadn't been back on the Arabella for more than fifteen minutes when his communicator chimed for a second time.

"Oona James to Aeric James," came the sultry voice of his soon to be ex-wife.

"Aeric here," he said and paused briefly in the corridor to access one of the wall controls. Aeric fingers moved over the display as he search for the names of already cleared ship personnel.

"I have transferred the detector to your new shuttle. Rory is installing it now." Oona said softly. "I am also ready to link my sensor information to your ship so that you can track the other vessel."

"Thank you again Oona," he replied. "Is there anything else that I need to know?"

"We've said what we've had to say Aeric, this is about recovering technology that rogue elements of your government shouldn't have.
Your admiral has assured me that recovery will be a priority."

Aeric sighed, "I didn't mean us, but we will get everything sorted out."

"I hope so. Oona James closing channel."

Aeric worked quickly and transmitted a message to Rory. She would need a pilot while she operated the system and the trail was growing colder with each passing minute. Tapping his badge Aeric focused on getting her a pilot.

"Commander James to ensign Galdar. Please report to Secondary shuttlebay and the shuttlecraft Zephyr for additional orders." Aeric said clearing the display screen and moving into the turbolift.

"Sir? Yes, Sir. On my way. Out.", came the disembodied voice of the Ferengi.

Joint post by Feathers and Jen

The call for Ensign Galdar pierced the relative quiet of Sickbay. Ryla turned a serious expression to the Ferengi. "I believe that was for you..."

Acknowledging the call, Galdar met her gaze and nodded once as he dropped to his feet. He'd been sitting quietly on the end of the bio-bed since his physical, not wanting to risk the corridors during lock-down with a non-Arabella ID.

"I believe so, Doctor." he said, not completely hiding his surprise. "Assuming this isn't a complex ruse of some sort, I'm guessing my Starfleet career's not as doomed as I'd feared." He flashed her a brief and very toothy grin, which Ryla easily returned.

He moved toward the door but halted quickly at the first breath of air across the new and slightly tender skin of his shoulder. Turning back to Ryla, he grinned again.

"If it's not too much trouble, could I replicate myself a new tunic before I go?"

"Certainly," she said as she led him to the device set in the wall near the lab. "You don't need the old, messy tunic to get a drink on the house for heroic deeds. I'll buy you one myself when you return. What would you prefer? A Blackhole? A Ferengi Starduster? Warp Core Breach?"

"Doctor?", he asked, a little surprised. "Well...I won't decline. I haven't had a proper Starduster in months. Thank you." Facing Ryla, he brought the insides of his wrists together, cupped his hands and bowed slightly in the manner traditional of his people.

Straightening, he turned to the replicator. As a tunic coalesced in front of him, he looked back over his shoulder. "Of course, if this IS some elaborate ruse designed to entrap me for something then my return may be somewhat later than expected."

He turned his back once again, quickly removing his damaged clothing and pulling on the replacement. "You're sure I don't need to keep these?" he asked, with a more relaxed smile. Not waiting for an answer, he returned them to the replicator for reclamation.

The hum of dissolution reverberated around sickbay, as Galdar walked to the door and out to what he hoped was his first formal assignment aboard ship. As he had hoped, the Arabella was turning out to be a MUCH more interesting posting than the station had been

JOINT POST BY FEATHERS, JEN, JUST X, AND HAWKEYEMEDS

Theran sat in the back of the shuttle craft and carefully removed his disguise, he still felt weak from the gas that his father had hit him with earlier. Coughing he struggled to get his vocal chords working and his voice to sound natural instead of that of a cackling old man. Andrews turned in the pilot's seat and looked at him, surprised.

"Who...?", he paused and shook his head.

"Well this is going well.", he continued sarcastically, "First the guys with the money get canned by a Ferengi and now the passenger..." His voice tailed off in confusion.

Theran stood up, checking his pockets until he found his cloaking device. It was cracked and the operation beam flickered on and off in a unusual manner. He walked across the floor and looked at the scanner.

"If you are going to fly this thing, may I suggest you stop looking at me and concentrate on getting us the hell out of here?".

"Easy for you to say.", Nick Andrews snapped back. A glare from Theran was enough to turn him back to the panel in front of him.

"Who's paying for this ride is what I want to know." the now ex-starfleet Lieutenant muttered under his breath.

Theran left Andrews at the pilot's seat and began looking at all the sensors, he was looking for his father's ship.

"Damn it. It's still cloaked."

Turning he back he rammed himself into the second seat and glared at Andrews whos attitude began to falter.

"What's the matter traitor, sweat making your driving skills dodgy?"

Andrew glanced at the agent. He didn't know who he was, he'd ended up on board the shuttle with an old man not this intimidating Australian.

"Where's the old man, what did you do to him?"

Theran stood up and smacked him across the face with the back of his hand.

"I'm not concerned with your questions. GET UP!"

Andrews stood slowly, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He'd cashed in his career for this idiot and it hadn't been by choice. He'd had enough.

"This was a nicely planned operation until that old man came along and hitched a ride. Why the others agreed to take him is anyone's guess. The three of us were all set and..." Andrews broke off.

As he was speaking, he'd slowly worked his way across the cabin and now, judging his position carefully, he lunged, throwing both fists into the back of the agent's neck. Theran fell into the control panel with a satisfying crunch as he cracked the plexiglass. Lifting his arms again for another blow Andrews advanced. "I've wrecked a perfectly good, if dull, career for you." he shouted.

As the fists swung down, Theran moved and the flesh of the Lietenant's hands crashed into the already damaged screen. Sparks flew, smoke ejected and Theran took advantage.

"You've made my job a lot harder traitor, and the best thing you can do is........"

Theran grabbed Andrews from the panel and lifted him to head height and glided his forehead into Andrews nose, shattering it on impact. The Lieutenant collapsed to the floor, out cold.

Theran dropped into the pilot's seat and his fingers glided over the remaining section of the control panel. He tapped a small glass screen and quickly wrote a message, it was short but meaningfull and it was for his brother. Finishing the message he put the scanning viewer on and saw another shuttle heading in his direction from the Arabella, he pushed his fingers up over the panel and the engines began to roar, but the control panel began to get hotter and hotter.

Joint post by Feathers and Just X

The Arabella's secondary Shuttle Bay was a new location to Galdar, evidenced by his reaction as he stepped through the doors.

He stopped, mouth opening involuntarily as he looked at the unfamiliar diamond shaped craft sitting on the deck before him. The first thing that shook him was its size. It didn't look big enough to take more than three or four people so only just qualified for the description as a shuttle. What it lacked in size, however, it seemed to more than make up for in thrusters, engines and control surfaces. There were even a couple of miniature warp nacelles encapsulated in the widest part of the design.

"Different isn't it!" a female voice called from inside the cockpit, interrupting his runaway chain of thought

"Ah...absolutely!", Galdar found his voice. Swiftly, he looked about for signs of concealed security officers.

"I take it that this is the Zephyr?", he called, approaching the ship slowly, paranoia fading. "What class is she?"

"Oh, she's in a class all of her own." came the disembodied response. "Come on up."

Nodding, to himself it seemed, Galdar reached the side of the strange craft and gingerly climbed aboard. "I assume the pilot sits in front?", he asked as he pressed his was through the crammed rear cabin space.

The woman in the copilot's seat, visible at last, straightened and nodded. As he pushed past her and settled into the seat in front, she spoke again.

"That should just about do it. Computer, initiate sensor integration test Rory Alpha three."

"Working", the computer responded in the same voice. Galdar looked round, startled.

"Welcome to the Zephyr, Ensign Galdar. To answer the easier of your questions, this ship started out as a personal project of my father, Commander James. He designed her as a smaller less complicated version of the Aurora. He wanted something that could compete with the Aurora in a race, but at the same time, she had to be something cost efficient. The Zephyr is made up of 90% stock parts and 10% custom parts. It's the reverse for her big sister. We've fitted her with standard controls, a bio-neural receiver, and my favorite, a holographic flight stick system to give the pilot  a more hands-on feel of control. We're still in the testing phase, but she's the only ship that we have to track down the target. I'll work the sensors and provide you with a course."

Galdar ran his hands over the helm console as it came to life, nodding in approval as the panels lit in mostly familiar patterns beneath his fingers. "I take it we're going to do a little flying then?" he asked.

"Flying, she can do in spades." Rory smirked. "It's the lack of major combat systems that we need to be aware of. She's a sports car, not a tank."

"Suits me", he said, nodding in understanding. Training taking over, Galdar rapidly ran the Zephyr through the standard pre-flight systems checks. Some of the responses that flashed past his eyes were...less than standard but they appeared to be well within the expectations of the craft itself. Behind him, he heard the sounds of the rear seat systems initiating as his as yet unnamed copilot closed and sealed the hatch.

Checks complete, Galdar powered the engines of the strange craft and lifted it gingerly from the deck, watching as the space doors glided open in front of them. The long angular nose of the Zephyr dropped slightly as he drove the shuttle forward and the small rectangular starfield expanded rapidly to fill his visual horizons as the ship punched through the protective door field. Eyes rapidly adjusting to the change in light as the floodlit bay dropped away behind them, Galdar slewed the shuttle toward the nearer of the planets and, as the stars wheeled around them, took a deep breath.

"So where are we going?" he asked.

"Adjust heading to this course." Rory smiled to the Ferengi and brought the projected flight path to the HUD. "By the way, I'm Rory."

Joint post by Startrekfanatic5 and Just X

Aeric quickly exited the lift as it reached the bridge and moved towards the captain's ready room. The information that Aeric had managed to gather from the ship's computer had confirmed that Quinn was not involved in any wrong doing, but SI had taken their time in reviewing the materials. On his return to the Arabella, they had finally granted Aeric permission to bring the captain in on the existence of the investigation.

Aeric took a deep breath and entered the ready room. "Captain, I'll keep this short. Starfleet Intelligence has been running an operation to see if the crew is compromised by Section 31. I have just received a communication that clears you of any suspicion of harboring sympathies to Section 31 and grants you access to the existence of the investigation."

Aeric closed his eyes briefly then returned their focus upon Quinn. "I have just unlocked a file in the system, SI-14291. It's a detailed log of everything that we have done to this point and the findings."

Quinn took the padd and sat back down at his desk and began to read.

Aeric continued, "SI gathered some information and discovered that two of our officers have family members connected to 31. They were looking into what we knew and why we didn't inform them of the connections. There are two vessels that SI wants us to intercept and suspects they want brought in. This and many of the events happening on the ship was a sting to capture known 31 operatives and draw out any we didn't know. We're coming into the last stretch, but I'll need to coordinate the operation from my wife's ship. There's technology there that we don't have."

Aeric knew that it was a lot to take in, but time was running short.

Quinn looked up into Mr. James anguished face and gave him a quick nod "You have your orders Commander, The Arabella and it's crew is at your command."

Galdar angled the Zephyr in the general direction of Ogus II, revelling in the maneuverability afforded by the small craft. It took a measure of conscious effort on his part not to throw it into an aerobatic display but their was 'a time and a place' and this wasn't it.

As the Tellarite shuttle grew ever closer, Galdar turned his thoughts to the occupants. Andrews and the old man had left the starbase over an hour ago yet here they were, still in sensor range, still within the Ogus system. It didn't make any sense.

A proximity alarm sounded and Galdar, eyes still locked onto the HUD indications before him, threw the shuttle into a looping roll as the stray piece of debris barrelled through the space the Zephyr had just occupied. The deflector may well have handled it but for a rock that size it wasn't guaranteed with a small shuttle like this. Anyway, Galdar admitted with a grin, why let the computers have all the fun!

"She handles well!" he called to Rory as he brought them back on course.

He turned his attention back to Andrews and his passenger and, reaching a decision, he tapped at a pad on his console.

"Galdar to Andrews", he said, quietly.

"Galdar to Lieutenant Andrews." he tried again. Glancing at the console, he continued, "Nick, I know you can hear me, the channel is open and I somehow doubt you're suddenly dead or unconscious. Please respond."

He waited for half a minute, but heard nothing.

"Look Nick, there's no way you can outrun this ship in that bulky old crate, no matter how good it looks." He paused, making another course correction, "I don't know what's going on but it looks to me like it doesn't have too much longer to run. Do us both a favour and pack it in now and I may even forget that you tried to kill me today."

"They're turning", called Rory from what felt like just behind Galdar's head, making him jump and causing the Zephyr to shudder slightly in response. He found the front-and-back seating combination was taking a bit of getting used to. "Come to new heading 006 Mark 214 and we'll head them off before they duck behind the planet."

"Aye." said the Ferengi as he brought the nose of the Zephyr up and around to the new bearing.

"We can beat them easily at impulse," continued the hologram, "but while we've got warp engines, they top out at warp 5. Security disabled the fugitive's warp drive but it's not unrepairable. From my scans, we won't catch that thing if they fix it."

Galdar nodded then partially turned in his seat. "Any chance I can try that holo-whatsit control interface you talked about earlier?"

Rory smiled at the domed orange skull before her and made a quick control selection.

"There you go. It's designed to be fairly simple...", she started.

"Got it!" called Galdar, grabbing the stick and throwing the Zephyr through a tight corkscrew before settling back on course.

Aeric smiled to himself from the operations station on the bridge of the Arabella. Telemetry from Oona's cloaked vessel provided him with the location of their target. The very cloaking device that he had been using now served as a beacon to the Arabella's sensors.

Aeric keyed in a sequence that transferee the information to Starfleet Intelligence then opened a communications channel. "James to Admiral Shawas."

From his display panel, the channel opened and she appeared on his screen. "How can I help you commander?"

"As stated in my previous report, there are no SI sympathizers or agents aboard the ship. The two targets that we spoke of have been located. I've dispatched a shuttle to recover one of those targets and a sympathizer that is with him. I have also transmitted the detection codes that Si can use to hunt down the other target."

The Admiral nodded. "Given that the Arabella is still in repairs, I could not expect you to launch in pursuit. SI thanks you for all that you have done to assist in this investigation."

Aeric frown, "Permission to speak freely Admiral."

"Granted Mr. James."

Aeric took a deep breath, "Why did you even need to come to me with this. There was no damned way that Quinn, D'Callan, or Sevryll were compromised. They have put their lives on the line constantly for this crew, this ship and the Federation. How could you even begin to suspect them."

Shawas sighed, "We never suspected them Mr. James. We knew that they would not betray their oaths, but we also knew that they wouldn't simply turn on those that they love. This was a test Mr. James and it was you that we were testing. SI needs agents that are willing to step outside of their comfort zones to complete the mission. We need agents that will stand by all the Articles of the Federation and not simply twist one to suit their needs. You have proved yourself in being able to meet the needs of Starfleet Intelligence, we will be in touch. Shawas out."

Aeric shook his head and closed the channel. He did not begin to know how he felt. He did his job and he was happy for that, but it alienated him for the rest of the crew. Shawas might have thought that he was doing what he did to protect the Federation, but it wasn't just the Federation. He did it to protect his family. Those of his blood and those that had become that while serving with him.

It was an offer that he might have to seriously think about. Section 31 was a serious threat and one that he was starting to think that it was time to end.

Joint post by Feathers and Hawkeyemeds

Theran D'Callan sat calmly in the oversized pilots chair, built for a Tellarite's bulky physique, and manipulated the controls as the shuttle headed for the planet of Ogus II. He'd quickly discovered the lack of warp drive functionality which at least explained why the ship was still in this sector.

It looked like Andrews had given up trying to get the drive on line a while ago, while Theran was still...incapacitated, and had opted instead to head into the Ogus system and try and hide amongst the planets and moons there. With no warp drive it had either been that or head out into open space and hope to be lost to sensors or picked up by someone friendly.

Nicholas Andrews moaned in the corner of the cabin, distracting the agent from his thoughts. Looking across, Theran saw the Lieutenant raise a blood stained hand to a blood stained head and attempt to open his eyes. The left was fine but it didn't look like he was having much luck with the right.

"What's happened to the warp drive?", the agent snapped out as he looked back at the damaged panel before him.

"Don't know.", Andrews muttered. "Looks like Security 'fixed' it. Not normal procedure." He lifted his head for a moment before letting it fall back against the wall of the cabin where D'Callan had dumped him.

"How long will it take to fix properly?" the Australian continued.

"Hah!", snorted Andrews, "That depends on when we can stop and how long for. It's probably not a big job but it's not going to be possible while we're bowling along at full impulse."

Theran nodded but said nothing. It was as much as he'd worked out for himself anyway. He couldn't imagine how he'd 'fallen in' with this bunch of amateurs - their 'inside man' didn't have a clue what had been done to their ship and the prime movers had both been detained. This was a singularly sloppy operation.

"Thanks for the gassing you gave me, Father." he thought sarcastically, "look where it's got me.".

Looking at the sensors, he had to admit to himself that it was also probably going to be a short operation. Taking the damaged cloaking device from his pocket Theran smashed it against the smouldering panel and took a small red disc from the remains. He looked at it, turning it slowly in his hand. It was cold but beautiful. He shook his head and then popped it into his mouth and swallowed hard.

Reaching across the damaged panels to the copilots controls, Theran D'Callan powered up the refitted weapons array. Andrews had at least managed to get one thing right.

Joint post by Feathers and Just X

"We should be in weapons range...", Galdar called to his back seater.

Rory obediently activated the phaser array mounted beneath the nose and a beam of energy speared the larger craft, coruscating off the shields.

"Direct hit. Their shields are down by three percent.", she stated, with a hint of a smile in her voice.

"...but I don't think that's going to do us any good is it." muttered the Ferengi.

"Well I did tell you this was more sports vehicle than weapons platform.", the hologram chided. "We do have other mechanisms at our disposal. Just stay with them."

"Staying with them in this ship won't be a problem. We'll overrun them in a couple more minutes but if the weapons are that ineffective, what are you going to do? Throw Hupyrian beetle snuff at them and hope the sneezing fit causes them to stall?"

"Sarcasm, Ensign?", Rory enquired with a laugh. "That's not quite in line with the description I received of you from my father." She worked the panels before her as she spoke, powering up the microtorpedo launchers. Galdar grinned, swinging the Zephyr slightly off to port, aiming to get between the ship and the planets of the Ogus system to prevent any attempt to lose them in orbit.

A burst of energy lanced out toward them, glancing off the starboard shield as Galdar instinctively pulled the craft into a roll and ducked back behind the shuttle, planets and moons wheeling around the periphery of his vision.

"That seems to be about close enough for comfort unless we have shields that are disproportionately strong. Whatever you're going to do, I hope you can do it from here...", he paused as another beam of energy struck out, this time taking the ship full on the nose, "...or herabouts." he completed as he pulled the stick back, lifting the Zephyr and allowing the remainder of the energy beam to pass harmlessly below them.

Joint post by Feathers and Just X

"I know we need to act quickly, but we can't simply board and subdue them." said Galdar, gesturing wildly with a free hand. "One of us has to stay with the Zephyr and even if the other could get through their shields and hold them alone, we'd still have to get them aboard in order to take them anywhere. There simply isn't enough room in here to hold two uncooperative prisoners, one of whom is possibly equipped with the ability to generate mind altering pheromones."

The Zephyr was still tailing the Tellarite shuttle but something was now clearly wrong with the larger craft. Their shields were still holding, but she was practically drifting in space from failures in the reaction control systems.

Additional scans revealed that their targets had transferred much of the ship's available power into strengthening their shields.

Unseen, Rory nodded. "There is another way..."

"What? How else can we take them? We've already ruled out tractoring them." Galdar's hands flitted across his controls, betraying his nervousness by their staccato movement.

"After we take down their shields, we can use the transporter..."

"But we've already discussed..."

"Let me finish. We can use the transporter to beam them from the ship and keep them in the pattern buffers. From there, we'll have 420 seconds to get them to the Stalwart."

Abruptly Galdar stilled. He turned his head and caught Rory's eye. "If that's what we need to do then we'd better be VERY sure that there's no alternative." he stopped as a new thought hit him. "You are Starfleet, aren't you?"

"Yes Ensign, I am." said Rory, "I was designed to serve as an emergency command hologram in the event of critical loss of life, but I don't hold rank."

"You're a hologram? So it's my call...and my responsibility if we fail?"

"This isn't my first mission and we will both be held responsible if we fail," Rory replied. "From beam out, we hold them in the transporter buffer and get them back to the Stalwart and Starfleet Intelligence. They're already moving to intercept us so as long as nothing out of the ordinary happens, we can do this."

Galdar tried to think of another way out, but there was really only one decision to take. If he left the Hewmons aboard the shuttle they'd possibly die. If he beamed them onto the Zephyr, he'd probably die and while the planet was a possibility it wasn't quite close enough yet.

Slowly he nodded. "Make it so." he said with a grave smile "...and may the Blessed Exchequer look favorably on me if we fail."

Theran fired what weapons he had but the guiding sensors were so damaged it was like letting off a party popper in a darkened room. Fixing his gaze at the scanner he knew time was running out, options were thin. Looking back at Andrews and whispered in thought.

" I could eject you out of the air lock, maybe they would find that a distraction"

He smiled and shook his head.

"Nah, you'd only go and screw that up as well."

Sitting back down he powered up the engines to maximum and made the whole shuttle a ticking bomb.

"Lets see how far we can burn this thing out"

Theran sat back and put his feet on the damaged control panel and put his hands behind his head. After a heavy sigh, he began to whistle an old Australian tune about a swag man sitting under a Coolibah tree as bits of metal and steam swam around him.

Joint post by Feathers and Just X

"Shuttle shields are down." Rory snapped as the final volley of mircrotorpedoes succeeded where their phasers had failed. "Energizing."

Galdar waited for his cue, holding the Zephyr parallel with the unnamed shuttle off their starboard bow.

"Done! Go. GO!"

The Ferengi gripped the control stick tightly and half spun, half rolled the Zephyr round onto its new course.

"Hang on!" he called as he pushed the impulse power demand to the limit. "It could get a little warm in here. However good the tech is, driving things this hard is going to generate heat."

He could hear the smile in Rory's voice as she replied "A definite advantage to me that I'm not susceptible to such things then, isn't it!"

Galdar grinned in turn. "Try and get me as much as you can from the engines. This is going to be tight and while Nick did try and kill me, I'm not keen on returning the favour."

The Zephyr roared through the silence of space, arrowing toward their point of intercept with the U.S.S. Stalwart. To Galdar time seemed to extend and slow as all of his skill and ability was neutralised by the simple need to point the shuttle in a straight line and achieve the maximum velocity possible.

Tapping a panel, Rory called "Rory James to Stalwart."

"Jefferson here. Go ahead."

"Captain, we have the targets and are en route to rendezvous. Have transporters and Security teams standing by to receive in approximately six and a half minutes."

"Acknowledged. Transporter room is awaiting prisoners."

As he listened to Rory close the channel, Galdar was aware that the cabin was growing detectably warmer as the engines raced and systems started to feel the strain. He thought back to his test flight aboard the USS Ninescah, a flight that he'd longed to extend and a craft he'd wanted to push to the limits. With the Zephyr he'd got his wish and while he was fairly sure Lieutenant Commander James would sign off on the stress he was putting on the ship, this wasn't the joy ride he'd envisaged.

"Coming into range of the Stalwart in 5 minutes. We have a one minute window." called Rory over the noise of the engines.

Galdar simply nodded and tried to push the ship faster.

"2 minutes, Ensign.", Rory James stated after an extended period of silence.

Galdar still said nothing but the tension in his shoulders spoke volumes where words would have offered little. He was afraid. Afraid that he'd made the wrong choice. Afraid that they'd take too long. Afraid that he'd killed his friend.

Without warning, the impulse power relay exploded in a shower of sparks and sent the craft into a barrel roll. Galdar worked to pull her back on course aware of the seconds ticking down on Rory's display. After a struggle, he managed to pull the ship roughly back in line and his hands jumped to trim the power distribution. Rory was turned in her seat, shooting a jet of extinguisher fumes into the smouldering access panel behind her.

"Heizenburg compensators are down. Stalwart will need to take them from the buffers. We can't bring them back like this." Turning back to her console, she checked the numbers. Had she been organic she would have paled. "We've losing speed." she stated flatly. " RCS thrusters are at 40%. Impulse engines are venting plasma. Transporter range now in 3.5 minutes."

Galdar ground his teeth. "How long do they have?"

"One hundred and sixty-seven seconds." The answer was enough.

Fighting the controls to hold the Zephyr on course despite the now mismatched thrust, Galdar said quietly, "Rory, prepare for warp."

"Aye, Ensign." Rory's hands moved to implement the appropriate protocols. Entering warp close in to a planetary system wasn't desirable but the hologram agreed with the Ferengi's unspoken assessment. Despite her electronic nature she wasn't immune to the pressure and emotion of the situation.

"Ready."

"Have the Stalwart standing by to take them from our pattern buffer as soon as they can."

"One hundred and thirteen seconds to pattern degradation."

Nodding, Galdar reached out and tapped at an innocuous control on the panel before him. Space around the shuttle blurred as the warp drive engaged and the small ship leapt forward.

"Zephyr to Stalwart. Do it!" Galdar shouted as the Zephyr snapped back into normal space almost instantly, searing down the port side of the Stalwart.

"Stalwart has them...and with over a minute to spare.", Rory replied calmly. She watched quietly as the Ferengi before her visibly relaxed and brought the Zephyr down from its headlong velocity into a semi-controlled stop. Behind them, the Stalwart was also slowing and turning, reversing course.

"Jefferson to Zephyr."A deep male voice broke through the quiet of the cabin.

Glancing back at Rory, Galdar cleared his throat. "Ensign Galdar here sir."

"We have them both safely Ensign. You may stand down."

"Thank you, Sir." Galdar couldn't quite keep the relief from his voice.

"We're coming around to get you now. From the state of your impulse engines I'm assuming you could use a tow?"

"Yes Sir. Thank you."

A shadow spread across the canopy of the Zephyr from the rear, blotting out all illumination from above. As Galdar looked up, the Defiant class U.S.S Stalwart quickly followed the shadow, gliding majestically into view. The Zephyr juddered as it was caught in the shimmering glow of a tractor beam and took on the velocity of the starship.

"...and Ensign?", the voice continued. "If you ever feel the need to try the Picard Maneuver in the vicinity of my ship again, please consider having the courtesy to inform me first. Jefferson out."

As the channel closed, Galdar grinned and sat back in his chair while Rory shut down the nonessential systems of the Zephyr. It had been well masked but Galdar had caught the unmistakable hint of smothered laughter in the back of Captain Jefferson's voice.

JOINT POST BY JEN & HAWKEYEMEDS

Theran strode to his cell with a smile on is face. Accompanying him were, three guards in front, one on either side and three more behind him. All had weapons dawn and all were looking quite nervous.

"Nice day for a stroll, aye boys?"

Not one of the guards spoke as they continued to walk down the corridor.  The head officer stopped at a small control panel and pressed his thumb against the screen. A green beam of light swept over the digit and activated the door. With weapons pointing to Theran, the head guard shouted, "into the cell on the opposite side of the room."
Theran entered.

"Now, stand against the wall...put your hands on your head and turn round."

Theran did as he was told, never allowing the smile to fall from his face. A sudden whoosh was heard as the force field went up and the lights in both cells came on. The  figure in the cell opposite of him, watched intently. Theran narrowed his eyes and smiled as the man walked towards his force field.

"Hello David, fancy meeting you here mate," said Theran as he examined the field holding that held him in his cell.
"...Well, the more the merrier, I say!" the Aussie winked as his grin grew wider, "let's say you and I blow this joint and grab an ale at the station."

The security officers that brought Theran into the room remained in the brig just to make sure the dangerous agents did not escape. They silently monitored the conversation, they had to be prepared for anything.

Agent Locke tried to smile. Theran always had a great sense of humor, but he was sure his partner wouldn't laugh when he learned was that David facilitated his capture.

"...you don't want to have a drink with me. I'm a traitor. I turned on you."

Locke and D'Callan ignored the guards as they stared at each other in silence.

Joseph sat up in bed and looked around the silent room. The security guards smiled at him and he smiled back. They respected their boss and no way were they going to try and look menacing in front of him. Joseph thought about his situation and hoped that the Captain would believe his story, he just wished he could remember more. 
Moving to the one side he looked at the blank monitor, he was locked out, he knew nothing of what was happening. Suddenly the screen flickered on. The computer spoke gently.

"Incoming message. Security cleared by Captain Quinn"

Joseph watched as the words flashed up. He slowly read each word and absorbed each letter. Twenty seconds later the short but powerfull message from his brother had been digested and Joseph tapped the monitor off, laid back and closed his eyes as  tears forced their way through his eyelids.

Joint post by Feathers and Dangelus

Galdar stepped through the door of his quarters and walked to one of the chairs near the centre of the room. Dropping into it, he released the fastenings at the neck of his tunic and ran his finger round the collar to loosen the stiff material. He'd never been able to afford a tailored uniform but had renewed his vow to give it a try every time he'd had to 'break in' a newly replicated garment.

The flight in the Zephyr had been a wild ride and the pilot part of him had enjoyed every minute but the stresses and responsibility had also been beyond anything he'd experienced before. When that was added to the impact of his earlier 'pheromone poisoning' there could only be one result. Ensign Galdar was tired.

He closed his eyes and his head dropped backward to the cushion behind him.

Someone stirred in the adjoining room.
 
Lester peered out from his suite to see his new Ferengi room mate making himself at home. He knew this moment would come and luckily he had had time get his head around the idea so emotional control was not an issue for him this time. He approached the relaxed Galdar in the communal area.

"Ensign." Lester's standard stoic greeting had an interrogative hint that Galdar could not help but notice.

Galdar jumped and his eyes snapped open at the unexpected intrusion. "Galdar! Shuttle Pilot. We met on the flight deck a little while ago." Taking a deep breath, he calmed himself. "It appears we are to share quarters."

Lester nodded but said nothing.

Galdar tried again. "Thanks for assisting me to sickbay earlier. I hope you didn't have any problems being out of quarters during a non-duty shift under lock down?"

"Not... at all Ensign Galdar. I trust you have recovered from your injuries?" he enquired.

"Yes, thanks.", Galdar responded. "The medical staff were most efficient...though I hope I won't find myself in the situation of needing their services too often." Galdar grinned in an amiable fashion, hoping to provoke a similar reaction from his new room mate.

He was disappointed.

"I've just transferred aboard.", he said, resorting to the obvious for the lack of anything else to say.

"I am aware of your situation Ensign Galdar. I took the liberty of reviewing your service record while I have been confined to quarters. I was interested to note your approach to the Kobyashi Maru scenario at the Academy."

Galdar grimaced this time, baring his teeth in a manner that looked far more menacing than contrite. "Not one of my most decisive moments", he conceded, "but apparently it wasn't one of the commonest reactions either." Again, he looked to his companion for a reaction.

Again he was disappointed.

Garriss began to pace the communal area as if he was assessing the space they shared.

"I must stress that I am... unaccustomed to sharing living quarters Ensign.".

"As am I, Ensign...Garriss", Galdar finally remembered, "As am I." He stopped, stuck for the best way of broaching his concerns with sharing quarters with this seemingly unresponsive Hewmon. He stood as he thought, finally turning to look the taller officer in the eye.

"I apologise if this is too direct or personal a question but it is something about which I am particularly concerned given our shared accommodation" he blurted out. He looked around. "It appears that these quarters are maintained in a very tidy fashion."

Lester turned to face the Ferengi this time. At last it seemed that Galdar had managed to get his attention.

"My personal possessions, as well as my living quarters, are kept in an ordered and logical manner, Ensign. It is a practice I must insist is continued." he said.

Galdar grinned, truly relaxing for the first time since Lester had appeared. "Great!" he exclaimed, "I can see we're going to get along just fine, Mr Garriss!" A wide yawn cut off whatever else he'd been about to say. "Now if you'll excuse me, I really, really need to sleep."

So saying, he moved towards his sleeping quarters, arm rising to slap Lester on the shoulder in what he thought of as a 'friendly human gesture' on the way past. In the light of his room-mate's unsmiling face, however, he thought again and dropped his arm, simply nodding politely to Garriss as he passed.

As the door to Galdar's room closed behind him, Lester heard the Ferengi muttering to himself as he crossed to the bed.

"I like this ship. It's exciting!"

A forcefield snapped into place in front of holding cell 5 in the brig of Starbase 416 as soon as Lieutenant Nicholas Andrews completed his materialisation. Transferred from the Stalwart after being cleared of any more than a passing involvement with Section 31 he had been returned to his post to face a Court Martial for his actions on and against the starbase.

He stared impassively through the field as the guards stationed to either side of the cell lowered their weapons and returned to their duty stations by the entrance. As a joint Starfleet and civilian facility, the Security presence at a Starbase brig was a little more 'obvious' than might have been the case on a starship.

Across the room he could see his two erstwhile colleagues, presumably transferred from the Arabella after their rescue from the shuttle bay. Bahaz waved at him and smiled weakly when he realised he'd been spotted.

Turning to the bench at the rear of the cell, he sat somewhat gingerly. The medical bay on the Stalwart had treated his injuries quite effectively, but there were going to be tender spots for a good number of weeks, he'd been told.

That character on the shuttle had really worked a number on him.

He leant back against the wall and stared at the ceiling as his mind turned to what was left of his family on Earth and what they'd think when the news of his disgrace reached them. He shook his head. He'd known the risks when he accepted the latinum so there was no point getting all misty eyed about it now. He'd done what he'd done and he'd been caught. Now that the penal colony beckoned, he wasn't going to pretend to be an innocent victim here when all the evidence was against him. It was time to simply stand up and take it on the chin like an officer should.

'An Officer', he thought with a wry smile.

He'd joined Starfleet in the ranks but had been encouraged to sit the Academy tests from the moment he arrived. Someone had thought he could be 'an officer'.

Even when he'd passed, he hadn't been wholly sure about going into the Academy and had nearly declined the offered place. He would have been happy working with his hands, in the ranks, but the prospect of flight school, once it was dangled in front of him, had finally persuaded him to go and work toward some pips.

Without those Academy taught skills he probably wouldn't have been flying shuttles. If he hadn't been flying shuttles, he wouldn't have been approached by... He stopped, shaking his head again. That way lay madness.

Lying down, he closed his eyes. He figured he was going to have plenty of time to second guess his actions of the last few weeks.

Joint post by Hawkeyemeds and Jen

"I could not risk them destroying Sevryll's life," David admitted.

"Traded in, at least it was for a better looking model," replied Theran.

David smiled and the tension diminished. "I never imagined that it would end up like this, Theran..."

His partner shook his head with a sigh and looked down at his hands, "same here, mate. I was this close to getting my father and ending the pain my brother and I have suffered. Instead, we've been dealt marked cards from every player in the room. I'm going to loose my hand, but you're going to loose a lot more..."

David's brow creased as he thought of Aeric James, "Yes...but I know she'll be safe... "

Theran stepped forward, " A shark in a uniform with polished boots is no different than a shark kept in a tank. It can splash about showing its teeth but everyone knows it's an ugly S.O.B inside and out."

David turned and faced his friend, "did you just make that up?"

"Yeah, I'm feeling a tad philosophical..."

David offered him a cuffed hand as they stood on the transporter pad, waiting to be moved to the frigate.  "I'm sorry, Theran."

Theran accepted the offer with his own bound hands and shook.

"Families, aye mate? Can't live with out em'... can't live without them. I only hope that Joseph gets that message I sent from the shuttle. You'll have your forgiveness David, I just  hope I get mine..."

As they smiled at one another the glow of a transporter beam engulfed them and they found themselves in a darker, colder room. They were still shaking hands as their bodies materialized. Theran turned his head slightly and suddenly grabbed David's arm and pulled his friend behind him just as a blast from a Varon-T disruptor hit him in the chest.

Theran's dreadful screams were at last consumed with his body. David Locke swallowed hard, survival was a Ferengi pipe dream, but he wasn't about to buy his premature end like a gullible Pakled. Sevryll's husband had no time to bemoan the murder of his friend, for the next shot greedily sought him. Agent Locke managed to dodge the beam as it lanced out and rapidly dissolved a panel behind him in hungry red waves. Four brisk steps later, David was upon the assassin— slamming his former minder to the deck and causing him to drop the sadistic weapon. The two men struggled on the floor, trading blows with fists and foreheads. Grunts and moans accompanied the echo of landed punches. One man fought for his life, the other for Section 31...both knew David would fail, the question was when...

Another shot was fired and David's cries filled the empty cargo bay.  Despite the agony, his last thoughts were of his family.

Ironically, the Federation had achieved the justice it sought at the hands of another Section 31 Operative. Guias stepped over his rapidly dissolving former partner as he strode from the room to the cockpit of his vessel.

----
Joint post by Feathers and Jen

Galdar sat and looked through the window of the Afterburner, studying the patterns of stars twinkling in the darkness. Now that the repairs were complete and the Arabella was undocked from the station, the external view was much improved.

He looked briefly down at the Starduster in front of him before his eyes settled on the face of his new friend.

"Thanks again for the drink Doctor." he said with a smile. "I can see the benefits of starship service were heavily understated at the Academy."

"Welcome aboard, Ensign." She said with a smile as she raised her glass to him. Her smile broadened as she saw K'Tan walk through the doors of the Afterburner.  Ryla had come a long way since she first lost her symbiont, but the past week had proven to her that she was capable of moving on. For a change, she actually looked forward to her new life...just as her new friend did.

Galdar raised his glass in a mock salute to the stars and took a pull of the contents.

The Trill took a sip. "I hate to break it to you Ensign", she said with a smile, "but not every aspect of a Starfleet career is fully defined by what one picks up at the Academy."

Galdar recoiled in mock horror but his smile didn't waver. "So I am starting to learn," he agreed.

In the corner of his vision, something moved across space. A ripple or distortion of some sort spreading from a point source off the nose of the ship. He turned to look but was too late. Whatever had been there had now gone but in its place was a ship, a ship that was largely unlike anything he'd ever seen before.

He looked back at the Doctor and pointed at the window. "You wouldn't happen to know what ship that is would you Doctor?" he asked, "or maybe I should be addressing the question to Captain Quinn and Lieutenant Commander James?"

------
Post by JustX


Aeric James stood on the bridge of the Arabella and watched Oona's uncloaked vessel make the jump to warp. It was perhaps the last time he would see her, but she left with three new passengers that would learn to call the ship home. The mirror duplicate of Sevryll and her newly born children would be happy in their new lives. Aeric knew it for a fact because he was also once happy on Oona's homeworld.

"Sir," the operations officer said with the hint of awe and concern in his voice, "a vortex is opening along our starboard bow."

"On screen," Aeric said as he moved to the auxiliary operations station. His hands moved over the controls and directed sensors towards the slowly opening hole in space.

While similar to a worm hole, the now four meter wide aperture bore temporal and quantum distortions. It also contained a transponder that he could never forget.

"We're being hailed," the ensign said.

"Onscreen." Aeric replied with a smile on his face, but with a heart carrying a storm of relief and worry.

The image of the vortex was quickly replaced by an image of Sevryll, with longer hair, sitting in the command chair. In the front of her and only slightly in frame, were Aria and an older looking N'Vall in the conn and operations positions of the ship.

"Aurora to Arabella," she said in her smooth alto. "we are home. Permission to dock at shuttle bay three."


THE END