Star Trek: Season 6 - Arabella

[iceman]

Peterson was just about ready to leave for the day when his computer beeped, then Stated.

"Incoming Message, You have an Alpha One Message from Captain Nathan Quinn."

Peterson read the message and was overjoyed with the  prospect of going back into space, he sent his message back to his former Captain accepting, providing Nathan could find a position for his wife.

Peterson fiqured that this should not be a problem as his wife was a certified pathologist and would theirfore be very helpful as she would be a jack-of-all trades so to speak, and therefore could fill in were needed.

Peterson knew his wife would be happy as she always wanted to go into space and this would be his opportunity to share this experience with his wife.

Peterson left his office in a hurry so he could go tell his wife the good news, all he had to do now was fiqure out how to tell his father and mother-in law the news                                                 

[moyer777]

Margon gazed at the beautiful sunset.  The Golden Gate Bridge looked amazing on the horizon.  He sat drinking a cool glass of water and waited for J'dan. He was going to meet the Counselor to discuss the breach in security that had been discovered. Margon's data pad beeped and he pulled it from his pocket. 

"Incoming message from Captain Quinn" it read.

Margon clicked on it and smiled.  "This is what I was hoping for" he shouted outloud.  The waitress came over, "pardon me sir?" 

"Oh, nothing my dear, nothing!- if a Bajoran man with dark hair named J'dan shows up, tell him to meet me at my office- oh and tell him he has a new job!" he stood up and made his way back to his office.  The counselor had to get his affairs in order and contact Captain Quinn.  He was going back into space as the Counselor on a new ship!

[Jen]

As Sevryll strode across the rug that hugged the stone floors of her ancient home, she heard a melodic chime from the terminal in her office a few steps away. It was evening, and the children were sleeping—she quickly entered the room and silenced the computer to prevent their disturbance. There were two messages...

She activated the first, as it was labeled "Urgent" from her mother, Sareth. The Modern Golic characters disappeared as Sevryll keyed an acceptance code on the screen. The older woman's traditionally stoic visage emerged, and Sareth inclined her head slightly.

"Daughter, your great-grandmother is eager to seek Ap-Lau...her place of eternal peace. She lingers in this world only to see her children before she departs. She has requested your presence and that of your children tomorrow evening. Seek me when you are prepared to go." Sevryll knew her great-grandmother was not long for this sun; she was over three centuries old and had lived a long life surrounded by her family.  Yet Sevryll felt the pang of grief all the same...death had been too near to her in the last year, and it would never again be an easily accepted occurrence in her life. She dipped her head a moment to gather her composure and moved on to the next message.

Nathan Quinn's smiling face replaced the script that rolled across her screen, and lightened the weight of her heart. Instead of the chaos of Tiberius's end, this time Sevryll saw optimism reflected in his green eyes. "I hope this message finds you well, my friend. I have news that I hope you will be interested in hearing. I will be coming to Vulcan tomorrow to deliver it to you personally. I hope you will find it as agreeable as I have," he said with a broad smile.  "I will speak to you soon. Quinn out."

The Vulcan woman tucked a loose strand of hair behind her left ear and arced a single eyebrow. She anticipated that there would be difficult decisions to make and though she had said she would readily return to Starfleet at Nathan's request, at that moment she was not certain what her answer would be.  Emotions grappled with logic as she stared at the blank screen before her. After a moment, she stood and glanced to the table where her violin rested, then walked to the door and closed behind her, so as not to wake the children with the music that would sing from within.

[Meds]

The crowd roared with Excitement. "OUT" half of them shouted and then every person gazed up to the large view screen in anticipation. The umpire raised his hand and that signalled the batsman was out. An eruption of yes's and no's filled the air. Joseph D'Callan was one of the cheering 'yes' people. He jumped up and punched the air and hugged a total stranger next to him.

"What a bowl mate, what a bowl"

The stranger looked at him and then shouted in Joe's ear

"Stunning mate, bloody stunning"

This was a classic cricket game from 2006 and Joe had finally been able to see the legendary game as Australia beat England to win the Ashes. He had just seen Shane Warne bowl the home side to victory on the final day of the third Test at the WACA. Except this wasn't the WACA, this was the San Francisco Holo-Stadium and none of the two thousand strong crowd cared that this was just a holographic projection of a game that was played over three hundred years ago. These events had become a popular pastime and next month the Holo-Stadium planned on showing even more historical sporting events.

It was just past ten o'clock at night when Joe finally arrived at his quarters. It was fair to say that he was a little bit tipsy, after all It wasn't everyday he'd been able to celebrate an old style game of cricket with some of his fellow countrymen. He sat on his bed and began to think about the day "I enjoyed that, I needed that. And now I'm talking to myself" Joe laughed and fell back onto his bed.

Outside in the corridor a hooded figure moved from door and lifted his communicator "I see no anger here" The communicator responded "We have time," the figure clicked the device back into his belt and disappeared into the shadows.

[Omra]

Shyn gave up trying to sleep; her thoughts were just too restless.  She went out to the family room, thinking she would get some night air on the balcony.  But when she got there, some one was already enjoying the view.  It was a Japanese woman in her late thirties, wearing a kimono, "good evening Shyn, couldn't sleep either?"  Shyn was startled, "Yuki?"  The woman smiled, "Yes Shyn, this is my true form," she bowed, "I am sorry for what I put you through, but it was necessary for me to play the role one last time."

Shyn joined her on the balcony, "I am sorry, but I do not understand."  Yuki nodded, "Understandable, I shall explain as best I can."  She turned to take in the view again, "Korridan and I have been together for 25 years, and yet he still thinks of me as his little daughter."  She looked wistfully into the distance, "During that time I have grown and matured just as any flesh and blood person would have."  Shyn asked, "So why the act?"

"No one walks away from an Orb experience unscathed," Yuki explained, "not only was his neural net rewritten, and reformatted while he was conscious."  She closed her eyes, "But he was given visions, visions presented to him by the Prophets, who exist in nonlinear time."  She slowly shook her head, "trying to read and interpret visions in nonlinear time, is like a two dimensional being trying to grasp living in a three dimensional world."  Shyn tried to wrap her mind around that concept, "it would drive me insane..."  Yuki looked at her seriously, "Now imagine being haunted by those visions, and struggling to understand them."  Shyn shook her head, and shivered at the thought of it, "I...I can't, it is just too alien to my mind..."

Yuki continued, "The only thing that seemed to keep him rooted in our reality, was caring for me in my 'default' form, that of the young girl my creator lost."  "And so I have played that role ever since," Yuki looked to Shyn, "but with one modification, I split my personality/imaging matrix, I allowed one to naturally evolve," gesturing to herself, "and the default one I slowly allowed the personality to evolve while maintaining the original image."  She smiled,"Trying to get him used to the idea of me growing up."  Shyn nodded, understanding.

Shyn asked her, "Are you going to be a hologram now?"  Yuki shook her head, "No, I was only granted it for two purposes."  She smiled a little, "First, so Korridan could tell you about me, and not have you think him insane."  Shyn chuckled at that.  And in a more serious voice, "And secondly so it would make the inquiry more efficient."  Shyn asked "Inquiry?"

"I am something new," Yuki cocked her head, "an unknown commodity."  "There has been much speculation and debate as to what I may be," she continued, "so a formal inquiry seemed the most efficient way to answer their questions."  "They can meet me and ask any questions they wish," she gestured to the den, "and they can poke around in my hardware as well." "Three things need to be determined," she sounded a little worried, "what am I, am I safe, and how can I best be used."

Shyn did not ask the most obvious questions aloud, but instead stood by her friend trying to silently offer moral support.  "Is she sentient?" she wondered, "what will they do if they think she is a danger?" 

Yuki broke the silence, "I want to wear this form when I go before the panel, because it is my true form, I wish to be honest from the start."  She looked somber, "And if I am to be terminated, I do not want Korridan to see a little girl die."  She closed her eyes, "But rather a woman who has had a rich full life, meeting her end with dignity."  Sadness tinged her voice, "He has suffered enough, I do not wish him to feel any guilt if I am terminated."

They could hear Korridans door open, Yuki steeled herself for the inevitable encounter.  Korridans sleepy voice asked, "Yuki, are you still up?" he came closer, "I thought I heard voices..."  Yuki walked through the billowing curtains, stood before him proud and beautiful, and demurely bowed.  "Yuki?" is all he could utter.

Shyn walked past them, they needed to be alone.

[Omra]

Shyn returned home ahead of Korridan, to find Yuki waiting for her.  Shyn was pleased to see her, "Yuki; I guess this means things went well...?"  The woman politely bowed, "Yes; Thank You, not wishing to be rude," she looked toward the door, "is Korridan far behind you?"  Shyn nodded, "Yes he should be awhile, why?"  Yuki looked serious, "We need to talk."

Shyn sat down at Yuki's request.  Yuki looked at Shyn, "Korridan did not tell you about the magistrate because he did not wish you to worry about something you could do nothing about."  Yuki smiled, "But I think I know of a way to fix it, but we must act quickly, we may be going separate ways soon."  Shyn's head was spinning, "What?"  Yuki waved her hands, "Please do not asks questions, there may not be enough time..."

Yuki started explaining, "There was a reason the Magistrate had two aides, he has Bendii syndrome."  Shyns eyes went wide.  Yuki held up a finger to shush her, "The first aide was an ambitious one who resented being put into the role of a babysitter, but none the less performed his role dutifully covering for him, patiently waiting for his superior to slip up."  Yuki pressed on, "The second aide was a young inexperienced telepath who tried his best to help the Magistrate keep his emotions in check."

Shyn moaned, "And when I made the overburdened telepath scurry off, he came unglued, playing right into the hands of the other aide..."  Shyn felt awful.  Yuki wasn't finished, "His political allies had arranged for him to retire in sixteen months with full benefits, and to move out of town without anyone knowing of his condition."  Shyn shook her head, "And then I came along, and screwed it all up."  Yuki continued, "Now instead he is forced into retirement, disgraced, and with only half benefits, his estate is in jeopardy."  Shyn still shook her head, "No wonder they want me off this planet..."

Yuki's voice turned hopeful, "There is something we can do to try and fix this somewhat, but we will need to act fast."  Shyn looked wary, and confused.  "When Korridan checks his messages, there will be one from Colonel Keryn, about a possible new posting," Yuki explained.  "Things may be moving fast in the next few days," Yuki continued,"and I want us to have clear consciences when we leave Vulcan."

Shyn looked towards the door, and then back to Yuki, "Korridan is not going to like this, is he?"  Yuki shook her head.  Shyn spoke softly, "But it is the right thing to do, isn't it?"  Yuki nodded.  Shyn said, "Alright, I'm in."  Yuki smiled and pointed to the PADD on the table, "Pick up your PADD and try to keep up, I'll cover as much as I can before Korridan gets home," she smiled, "and then we'll finish up tonight after he goes to sleep."

[X]

Aeric took a deep breath as he reviewed his incomming messages. He smiled at the request from Quinn and considered the offer. His tour at the VFY would be up soon, but he still had no idea if he would continue at the shipyard or sign up with Quinn.

"Computer," Aeric said. "Forward message to Aria James and attach the following message.

Aria, it seems that Quinn is getting a new ship. I am honestly considering the offer, but I don't believe that I can just accept the mission without consulting with you first.

I don't know if Quinn contacted your mother yet, but we should keep this to ourselves until she has made her own decision. If I take this position, I will see if there is a place on the ship for you if you want it. I'll be planetside soon with Beth to meet the rest of the family and we can discuss more after that.

Computer, end recording and transmit."

[wraith1701]

In a small workspace in the docks orbiting Vulcan, K'Tan greeted his older brother with a scowl of trepidation.  After staring silently into the image on his monitor for nearly a minute, he finally broke the silence.  "KoraQ.  It has been what, 15 years?  What brings you calling now?"

"I came to offer you a chance at glory," the Klingon replied.  "You have had your chance to play at being a 'good little human', and look at where it has gotten you!  Bounced from ship to ship, only to have your latest posting destroyed in a most dishonorable fashion.  You should *"

"BIjatlh 'e' yImev!" K'Tan roared, smashing his fist on the desk before him.  "The destruction of the Tiberius was anything but dishonorable; she was destroyed to prevent the possible deaths of millions on Vulcan."

KoraQ held up his hands placatingly.  "MajQa', K'Tan.  I meant no disrespect.  But look at yourself, locked up in an office doing paperwork.  You may have the forehead of a QuchHa', but you are tlhIngan!  Men like you and I; we don't sit at desks and file reports, we conquer worlds!"   KoraQ gave a wink and quickly added "I meant 'conquer' in the figurative sense, of course." 

The man's features quickly settled into a more serious expression as he steepled his fingers on the desk before him.  "Let me cut to the chase.  The Defense force still wishes to welcome you to the fleet.  You could secure a position as first or second officer on any number of ships, and if you are still the tenacious torgot that I remember from our youth, I am certain that you would have your own command in no time.  What do you say, brother?"

"It is an interesting offer, but I must give it some thought," K'Tan replied.

"Very well.  In the meantime, I extend an invitation to you to dine with my senior staff and I this evening aboard my ship.  I have a cask of '49 that I've been eager to open, and we recently acquired a supply of fresh Gagh.  Still full of fight; never been in stasis."

K'Tan struggled to maintain a straight face as he considered the notion of eating food that could fight back.  By Kahless, I can't stand eating live food!, he thought.  "I would be honored to join you," he replied.

KoraQ gave a quick nod, then terminated the connection.  K'Tan sat back, staring numbly at the blank screen.  Seconds later, the 'Incoming Communique' icon began flashing insistently on his monitor.  "What now," he grumbled.  As he read the message, K'Tan felt a smile slowly forming-

To my former officers and crew,

It is with great pride and pleasure that I report that Starfleet Command has granted me a new ship. Though she is a smaller vessel than the Tiberius she will be perfect to complete our new mission. Command has tasked me with exploring a new section of the Beta Quadrant and I could not think of a better crew than many of you that I have served so proudly with.

I am currently in route to Vulcan to inspect my new ship. Hopefully your current duties have not taken you too far away because I wish you to return as a part of that new crew. Please contact me at your earliest opportunity so that we can discuss your new role in our new ship.

I look forward to serving with you all again. I expect to place some of you in new positions that better fit the fine skills that you have displayed both during the last hours of the Tiberius and the past few months. For those of you still on active duty, Starfleet has authorized your transfers pending your agreement to this new posting.

I look forward to working with you again. No, I look forward to having our family back together again. It will be on a new ship with some new faces, but hopefully this new ship can become a home to us all. I think that it's long past time for us to come home.

I hope to see you soon,

Captain Quinn

Feeling happier than he had at any point in the past year, K'Tan saved the message and stood up from his desk.  Looks like I've got quite a bit to think about, he mused silently. 

[Jen]

Joint post by Ricardocameron and Jen

Saryn left his office and followed the young extremist down the corridor to the 'meeting' with the Saapsigo. "Excuse me for saying so, Sir", the student remarked without looking directly at Saryn, "But I overheard some of your...conversation with your son and daughter. They bear such a strong physical resemblance to you, Master...it is regrettable that they do not manage their own emotions with the strength that you exhibit.  If this becomes well known, it may not bode well for your family". 

"If Vulcans allowed what they kept locked away inside themselves to show on their faces," thought Saryn, "there would be a leer on this young student's face."

Glancing to the escort Saryn replied, "thank you for your concern. However, it is not your affair.
You are young and easily swayed by strong tides... be mindful of the sources of those waves."

The escort abruptly stopped and turned to face Saryn. He felt the intensity of the young Vulcan's eyes attempting to drill into him. Keeping his voice even the student replied, "Strong Tides? Master, I am a follower of Surak, and a son of Vulcan." he declared proudly.  "The strong tide you speak so disparaging of, will keep our people from being crushed under Romulus's heel and diluted within the Federation's homogeny.  Surak's Teachings are the source of those waves, and though I have not yet undertaken the Kolinahr, I have reached an epiphany with regards to Surak's teachings. And to do that, as you know, one must have complete emotional control.  Those who do not, cannot say that they follow Surak's path."

"That... my son," said Saryn, "is debatable.  Forget not the edict that is the IDIC: 'Infinite diversity in infinite combinations'.  There are many paths to the summit of Mt. Seleya."

The student escort said nothing more after that, and they continued walking in silence. They arrived at a large, stately room, where the student left him with nothing more than curt nod.  Saryn patiently awaited the meeting, while Master Saapsigo finished a quiet conversation in his chambers with a Vulcan woman who was later introduced to him as T'Vras.

"Master Rayna, so pleased you could join us.  Please, sit", said Saapsigo graciously. "There are certain members among the staff who are unfit to teach our young people.  You may know of one in particular, newly appointed to the Academy, Master Sevryll."

"Hmmm...yes, I have heard of her, yet I have not made her acquaintance.  Your former bondmate, if I am not mistaken?"

Saapsigo's inflexible expression remained as cold as the desert at nightfall. Ignoring the question, he continued, "I have begun to investigate anecdotes that have now been verified and must be acted upon. He turned toward the woman and introduced her to Rayna. T'Vras gave him an account of her confrontation with Aria. Saapsigo interrupted, "This young woman who called Sevyll's children her siblings, vexes me. But it doesn't matter, the fact remains the young woman claimed relation, and the children are quite emotional. There is more testimony from a man who said Sevryll attacked him. He said she was well earlier in the day and when he saw her a few hours later she was enraged. And then there is the matter of her father's involvement with Unification." He lowered himself into a chair and folded his hands in his lap.

"A number of us are petitioning the administrators for Sevryll's dismissal." Once this has been achieved, Saapsigo thought to himself, we will seek the designation of 'Vrekasht'.


 He steepled his fingers and leaned forward to stress the importance of Rayna's collaboration. "Considering your own family's quandary, regarding your children's lack of emotional control, it would benefit you greatly to support our cause Master Rayna. Can we depend on your cooperation?"   

"We, Master Saapsigo?", asked Saryn, arching an eyebrow, "I see only the two of you.  I know nothing of these 'events' you speak of.  Is it customary to..."

Saapsigo cut him short.  "I assure you, Master Rayna, as a temporary instructor at the Academy, you do not fully understand the future implications of Master Sevryll's continued tenure here."  Saapsigo smiled inwardly, convinced he had the upper hand, "You may disagree, but the action will be taken with or without your support.  The students, your children among them, require proper guidance... Surak's guidance. Of course, I understand your hesitation to speak against her, what with the reputation of your own family; your children, T'Kara, here at Shikahr, and Soryn at the Science Academy. It would be 'uncomfortable' for your career and the rest of your time at Shikahr, if that was brought to light.  Surely you agree?"

Saryn said nothing immediately, and instead carefully considered what Saapsigo had just said.  The silence was tangible between them as Saapsigo and T'Vras leveled a steady gaze at him for what seemed like eons, awaiting his response.

Saryn looked up at them and stated simply,"I will support you in this matter."

"A well made choice, Master Saryn.  Thank you for your cooperation", said Saapsigo.  "We will re-convene tomorrow, at this time, and record your formal testimony."

Saryn nodded at T'vras and Saapsigo, and rose to leave. "One more thing, Master Saryn," said Saapsigo in an undertone that bore thick frost.  "I trust you will no longer neglect your children's emotional guidance...I would see our Academy free from further disruptions, and for the rest of your time here, our future conferences free from discord."

"Of course", Saryn replied, and he turned to leave the two to conspire alone.
Saryn walked briskly back towards his quarters, and once home he immediately contacted Sevryll. 

"Master Sevryll," he began,"there is a matter of great urgency I must relate to you..."


The next day, Sevryll carefully considered the warning sent to her by her colleague. Her brows dipped, forming a frown. What would she do to combat this injustice? The only person who could understand the dilemma she faced was her great grandmother...

[Omra]

They were supposed to be on their way to the Vulcan Shipyards to interview for possible posting on a brand new ship, but this was something which simply needed to be addressed.

Korridan pointed toward the shuttle, "This is a Vulcan shuttlecraft."  Shyn agreed, "Yes it is."  He glared at her, "In other words it is NOT a Federation runabout."  She agreed, "No it is not."  He pointed toward the Port Authority building, "He is a Vulcan, I rather doubt that he could mistake a shuttle for a runabout."  She agreed, "That would seem rather unlikely."  "So therefore the fact that there is no runabout here," pointing toward the landing pad, "where we left it; would lead me to believe that you," he pointed to her, "must have something to do with this!"

"Well I..." Shyn attempted.  "Lost it?" He interupted.  She shook her head.  "Crashed it?" he tried.  She shook her head.  Waving his hands about, "Well then what?"  She choked out, "I parted it out..."  He blinked, "You what?"  She continued, "And then I sold it."  He stood silent, stunned, not knowing what to say.

He asked incredulous, "You sent our runabout to a chop shop?"  She nervously nodded.  He shook his head, "How would you even know how to find a chop shop?"  He started pacing, "How would you even know what a chop shop is...?"  He stopped pacing, and glared at her, "YUKI!"

Shyn tried to look offended, "No, this was all my..."  He cut her off, "Yeah right, and Ferengi make great Volleyball players!"  Wagging a finger in her face, "There is no way you could have pulled this off without Yuki's help."  He threw his hands up, "Do you have any idea what kind of trouble Keryn and Kira are going to be in if this leaks out?"  He started pacing again, shaking his head.

Shyn weakly said, "My friend and I already took care of that..."  She gestured toward the Port Authority Building.  He glared at her, "This I have got to hear..."  Shyn explained, "It was already recorded as impounded and Quarantined, so we simply updated the reports to show it as a level 5 quarantine, and as having received severe engine damage in transit to Vulcan,"  She smiled, "Starfleet ordered it scraped."  Korridan looked puzzled, "What?"  Shyn calmly explained, "It was an old Danube class, it would have cost more to have it repaired and decontaminated than it was worth."  Korridan still looked a little perplexed.  She explained further, "It was simply cheaper and easier for Starfleet to send Kira a new runabout, and she is even getting a newer model."  She smiled.

Korridan looked at her, "You are really pleased with yourself aren't you?"  She looked sheepish.  "Here I am trying to mold you into a respectable constructive member of Starfleet, and you go and fence a runabout to ..."  He stopped; a look of worry crossed his face, "What did you do with the credits?"  Shyn looked away.

Korridan deflated, "Don't tell me you have gambling debts..."  Shyn looked angry, "This is not about me!"  He looked at her with jaded eyes.  "Okay maybe it," she seemed confused, "no it is not, I er, aaaargghh..."  She glared at the landing pad, avoiding his stare.  He wondered what she was up to, and why Yuki would be involved.

Realization hit him, "This is about the Magistrate isn't it?"  She nodded.  "Alright," he sighed, "tell me what you did..."

"I started a foundation in his name," she stated, "to fund research and awareness about Bendii Syndrome."  He nodded, "nice."  "I placed credits into a Certificate of Deposit," she nodded toward the building,"when he dies, my friend will withdraw the money and give it to the widow, claiming it is donations from his former employees," she smiled lightly,"it should be enough to cover funeral arrangements and defray any medical expenses she may have incurred."

"And the rest I gave to various charities and campaign funds," she continued,"to elicit promises from various politicians to speak at his funeral."  Shyn finished, "This should be enough to secure the widows estate and put her in a strong enough political position to stave off any rivals or enemies."  Korridan nodded, knowing what she meant by that.

He boarded the shuttle, and prepped it for flight, saying nothing to his companion.  He did not want to be late for his interview.  He was not sure what to about this rash act of hers and Yuki's.  It was compassionate, but reckless.  It was not a random violent act like when she trashed Quarks bar.  It was more of a Robin Hood kind of act, was there room for that sort of thing in the Federation?

[wraith1701]

With a disorienting, almost painful electric tingling, K'Tan materialized on the dimly lit bridge of the Bird Of Prey.  He took a moment to center himself as the effects of transport slowly wore off; his skin felt as though it had been given a brisk scrubbing by coarse sandpaper.  Man, I'd forgotten how brutal Klingon transporter tech can be, he thought to himself.  Comfort was definitely NOT high on the list of concerns for Klingon engineers. 

As the tingling in his skin subsided, K'Tan became aware of a pervasive, cloying odor; a smell that brought to mind burnt insulation, machine lubricant,and half-rotted food.  Underlying these smells was an earthy, peaty odor, undercut with an incongruous hint of lilac.  He inhaled deeply, and scanned quickly to the left and right, trying to see through the red, haze infused lighting.    As he slowly adjusted to the darkness, he became aware of the eyes of the bridge crew focusing on him; some with curiosity, others with open hostility.  K'Tan made it a point to fiercely return the more challenging stares, glaring back until the challengers averted their eyes.  Just like back home, he thought with a grin of nostalgia. 

Anticipating the vigor of his brother's welcoming greeting, K'Tan threw back a handful of extra-strength analgesic pills, grinding them into a bitter paste and swallowing as he approached the captain's chair. 

Like a king on a throne, towering over all his subjects, was the massive, scarred form of his older brother, KoraQ'.  The Klingon captain's armor bore the dents and pits of innumerable battles, and the unmarred portions gleamed coldly in the blood-red bridge lighting.  Draped over one shoulder was a thick, targ-hide cape; the fur of the cape shone with an oily sheen.  With a booming laugh of glee, KoraQ' leaped from the command chair and grasped K'Tan by both his shoulders, lifting the six-foot plus Lieutenant until his toes barely scraped the deck.  Wearing a grin like a child on Christmas morning, KoraQ' threw back his head and bellowed "'oy' DaSIQjaj!" ; he then brought his head forward violently, smashing his forehead into K'Tan's with a deafening KRAK.  K'Tan returned   KoraQ's feral smile with a grin of his own as he was lowered back onto the deck.

"May you endure the pain as well, KoraQ'," K'Tan said, returning his brother's traditional greeting.  "It is good to see you again."

"Indeed; The Great Claw and The Little Claw are together again, just like old times!" KoraQ' laughed.  K'Tan couldn't help but wince at hearing his old childhood nickname.  Noticing his brother's discomfort, KoraQ' laughed even louder, then raised an arm as large and gnarled as a tree-trunk to point at an officer at the tactical station.  "Turok, you have the bridge." 

"Luq!" the man replied, bowing his head smartly as he headed to the command chair.

KoraQ' then clapped K'Tan on the shoulder, saying, "Come with me, Little Claw; it is time to eat!" 

K'Tan followed the towering Klingon as he headed for a doorway at the rear of the bridge, scowling silently.  "The name is 'K'Tan; it means 'young claw', not 'little claw'," he grumbled to himself.

[Jen]

Joint post Pt.I, by Jen and Just X

Aeric had spent a lifetime in another timeline, living among this family, but he had never once met the woman who had called for them. She had faded from the limelight centuries ago and in his ignorance, Aeric assumed that she had long passed to join her ancestors in the Hall Of Voices. He was honored that they would ask him to come with them— for though he knew them well, they had only known him a single year.

He carried the small half-vulcan toddler in his arms as he followed the small group into the temple. The sound of their footsteps accompanied them as they proceeded through the majestic halls of Mount Selea. After some time, they entered a domicile wing and the great hall echoed with the groan of ancient hinges as the double doors were opened. Beyond them was a section that was traditionally assigned to the most eminent of individuals. T'Pau had once lived there, yet after her passing it was offered to a wise and ancient woman who had seen centuries of change, not only on Vulcan, but within the Federation as well. Aeric marveled at the relics that rested within the chamber. Artifacts from bygone eras were displayed in conjunction with images that were taken at the signing of the Federation charter. A wealth of history resided there in both the ancient items and the elderly woman who had, in her later years, become an advisor to her people. Aeric's eye fell on a peculiar object that seemed out of place amongst the relics, and he paused momentarily to study it closer. A curious smile spread across his face as he glanced from the figurine to Sevryll for explanation.

"A gift from the Tucker family," she stated simply as she glanced at the sculpted figure of Frankenstein's monster. Aeric nodded, though he wasn't quite sure why they would give such an odd gift.

"How are you holding up?" he asked as they continued down the dimly lit corridor. Sevryll wasn't quite certain how to answer his inquiry and so an awkward silence was her only response.

She had spent many years, as a child, at the woman's feet, absorbing her wisdom and drawing inspiration from her stories of her time on the Enterprise. Sevryll found the elderly woman to be a kindred spirit and as she grew into womanhood, she and her great grandmother had spent much time together at Mount Sela.

Aria glanced from her mother to her father. The young clone had only met T'Pol, once when Sevryll had taken she and her younger siblings to Mount Sela a few months prior. They had spent several hours in her company and afterwards, Aria was left with a broader understanding, of the family she was now apart of.

"This might be a difficult day for you given the potential for emotional conflict. Don't hesitate to look to us for support in this," said Aeric in a low tone, as he stepped to Sevryll's side.

He didn't know how else to put it. Loss was one of the hardest feelings for most people to manage--it was an inevitable hardship of the heart; and though Sevryll now shared the vast range of feelings that emotional beings felt, her experience in dealing with them was limited and he was concerned for his friend's well being.

Beth looked up at her adopted father with the curiosity of an entire people apparent in her eyes, and  held a smile that could have cut through the darkness itself.

[Geekyfanboy]

Quinn sat quietly in a shuttle pod looking over Starfleet crewmen records. He had received many communiqués from former Tiberius crewmen who were more then happy to re-join his crew. Though his crew would be smaller there were still several key position that needed to be filled. He read record after record and slowly started to build his new crew. Ensign Deklin who was piloting the shuttle turned to Quinn. "Sir we are one hour out from Vulcan." Quinn smiled, nodded and said "Thank you Ensign," and returned to his padd.

[X]

Joint post part II by Jen and Just X
Aeric tried to keep his emotions in check out of courtesy to the company he kept. Secretly, he was concerned with the possible fallout regarding his newly adopted daughter. He had grown attached to the girl and she was now as much his own as Aria was. He could only hope that T'Pol did not contest his parenting of the child.

"Father, are you alright?" Aria quietly asked as they moved slowly down towards the main foyer.


"Just a bit nervous," Aeric said. "I didn't know that she was alive and now I feel like I've denied her several months with the child that she never had the opportunity to know. They waited at the entrance to T'Pol's quarters as Sevryll and her father were ushered inside.

The afternoon bathed the room in a wash of sunlight, and created a golden halo around the woman seated in a large chair near the window. As the two approached, a weak voice called out, "Krell?" Her frail hands griped the armrest as she attempted to push herself off the seat.

Krell could not answer, for he was still unable to adequately form words—Sevryll answered for him, "Yes, grandmother. Please, do not stand." She helped her father into a nearby chair. The elderly Vulcan was a shadow of the woman she once was, but her shining eyes still reflected vitality. She stretched her hand towards Sevryll, gesturing her to come nearer. The slender Vulcan stepped forward and knelt close to her grandmother's side, so that T'Pol could see and hear her clearly.

"Peace and long life," whispered the elder Vulcan to the woman who had shared so many conversations with her over the years. Sevryll considered repeating the greeting, and determined it would be obtuse, for T'Pol was at the end of her life, and the only thing left to wish for her was serenity.

Sevryll replied softly, "Peace, grandmother. I have brought others to see you." She said, motioning toward the doorway where the rest of the group waited courteously for an invitation to enter. T'Pol narrowed her ancient eyes, in an attempt see those Sevryll had spoken of.

After a minute she raised her brows in realization, "please, come in," she said warmly.

M'Rynn and N'Vall broke from Aria's hands and rushed before the woman they had come to visit several times before. "Hello," said N'Vall with a smile.

"I am pleased that you came," she said to the children, and glanced to Aria, "and you as well."

"I hope that you are doing well today," Aria said as she inclined her head to T'Pol and offer her a slight smile. She was happy to see her, and did not attempt to hide those feelings.

T'Pol noted the expression and nodded courteously. Then greeted the others. "It is an honor to meet you T'Pol," Aeric said as he pushed the sand colored hood from his head. "As a child, I grew up hearing stories about you and your many adventures. I regret that it has taken us this long to meet."

The aged woman glanced to Sevryll and whispered, "who is he?"

"A friend," she replied, "Aria's father."

He smiled as Beth stared inquisitively at the woman. Even in her advanced years, T'Pol held a demeanor that demanded admiration. He could see that despite the difference in age, the two shared the same beautiful eyes. There were so many questions he wanted to ask the woman before him. And there were things that he needed to tell her that he could not begin to find the words for.

"Welcome," she said. "Is the young one your daughter as well?"
Sevryll looked to Aeric who's expression, no matter how impassive he attempted to make it, he still communicated thoughts as fluidly as Data PADD. Sevryll turned to T'Pol, "this is his adopted daughter." She paused as the elderly woman studied the smiling toddler. "Do you remember when I told you about Aria, and how she came to be?  You told me that you understood, because you also were given a daughter in this way."

"Yes." She replied—confusion coating her words.

Sevryll nodded towards the girl "Grandmother, this child is Elizabeth...your daughter." T'Pol's etched features trembled as she stared in disbelief at the girl holding Aeric's hand.

Sevryll turned to Beth and spoke gently to the girl, "Beth, this is T'Pol, come say hello." The little girl glanced curiously up at her father as he walked her to the chair where T'Pol sat. The elderly woman's, eyes remained on Beth as she asked to hold the toddler.


Aeric smiled slightly as he lifted the child into her lap. "Beth is from the past... I believe her arrival here was an attempt to balance the temporal equation—individuals who safeguard the future, brought her to me. I would be more than happy to answer any questions you have, but I wasn't given any details when I received her, other than who she was and that they corrected the genetic flaws that ended her life in the past."

Aria quietly noted the information that her father shared. In yet another timeline, this infant was her father's mentor and guardian. Now the roles were reversed. Before Elizabeth's sudden appearance, Aria had wondered if there was a way to save Elizabeth from her fate without altering the timeline. It was the very subject that she planed to base her upcoming thesis on. The young clone wondered if Beth's arrival was a part of some strange grandfather paradox and hoped that she was the individual from the future that had given this gift to T'Pol and her father.

The toddler touched T'Pol's weathered face as a tear betrayed the woman's resolve and plunged towards the floor. Glancing to Aeirc, T'Pol mouthed the words, "thank you."

[iceman]

Doctor Peterson, returned to his apartment overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, he began cooking dinner. Casey had taken up the long lost art of Cooking during his reassignment on Earth.

Although he did not mind replicator food, he had discovered a greater satisfaction from actually gathering the ingredients and making the food himself. To that end, the doctor had his apartment equipped with a fridge and stove so that he could cook from time to time.

This evenings dinner was to be something special, he was preparing an old fashioned turkey dinner with all the trimmings. He had decided to prepare the turkey according to the directions from a 20th century cook book he had acquired specially for this occasion.

Peterson had just finished stuffing this turkey with, a laundry list of unreplicated ingredients which included a combination of  bread, onions, butter, salt and pepper, almonds ,chicken stalk and pork sausage, and mixed it all together with a combination of ginger, cranberries and other spices. Casey only had to replicate a few ingredients that he could not find through traditional sources

With that done he placed, the bird in the oven, and began to prepare the other dishes that he was going to serve. He was nervous about how the evening would turn out. He new how Darcy O'leary felt about Myella, Casey was using this meal as a way to break the news to his in-laws that he and Myella would be reassigned.

Peterson continued to prepare the dishes he would serve including, butternut squash, mashed potatoes and gravy, Pumpkin Pie and Sweet Potato Pie.

The doctor had laid the table out nicely with a blue velvet tablecloth and he sat the table with an ornate plate setting that they had received as a wedding gift. He complemented this with some crystal goblets and hand picked roses that he had grown in his hydroponics garden.

It had only taken a few hours for the apartment to come  alive with the smell of the roasted Turkey. The scents of Nutmeg and Cinnamon hung heavy in the air and infused every room with their aroma.

With the meal in the final stages, all he had left to do was sit down and think of how he would break the news of the transfers.

Dr. Peterson thought over differrent ways of bringing up the assignment to Myella's Parents. They had just got used to their daughter being a married women, and now they would have to deal with the worry of their daughter being away from home for an extended period of time.

This left Casey with a knot in his stomach and he decided that he would hold off on telling them about the reassignment until he had heard from his former Captain. At least this way, Peterson thought that he would at least be able to tell Myella's parents something about their posting, which might make the separation a little easier to handle.

The doctor continued to watch over the dishes he was preparing for dinner, and hoped that his wife and her parents would enjoy the dishes he was preparing.

Casey really felt like a chef, he was dressed up in a 20th century styled chef outfit, all that he was missing was the hat and the scarf, that 20th century chefs used to wear in executive class hotels. The doctor laughed out as he mused I would have made a great chef.

All this preparation and mixing of ingredients brought him back to the days of his first and second year pharmacology classes that he took at Starfleet Medical.

Casey finished his food preparation and inhaled the succulent fumes that emanated from his kitchen. He poured himself a tall glass of Romulan ale that he kept for purely medicinal purposes and waited nervously for everyone to arrive.