Is this Some Kind of Joke?"
By: Melissa Jarvis, Chief Security Officer, [RNPC]
Korg , Temporary Security Officer , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.11 0600

Melissa entered the holodeck. The program she had called up was a replica of a Klingon training room. She had never used this program before so she did not know what to expect. It was pretty authentic looking. The walls were lines with carious Klingon weapons.

Melissa began going though Mok'bara exercises. She had not had much time to train since coming on the Zion. With he arrival of the Klingon, however, she decided to get back into practice.

"Not bad for a human," came deep voice behind her.

"You are late," she scolded the Klingon who now stood next to her and joined her in the Mok'bara exercises matching her every move. Together they worked though the exercise.

"Did you enjoy your first night about the Zion," asked Melissa.

"The accommodations are bit too soft for my tastes," he rumbled. "Nice program," he said looking around. Korg walked over to the wall and lifted a bat'leth off its pegs. He swung the weapon in a large arc. "Very good," he said.

"I just found this program in the ships library. I am not even sure who made it," said Melissa. "So far it seem very well done. Computer, create two opponents for bat'leth training." Melissa walked over to the wall and took down another bat'leth. When she turned around she was not prepared for what she saw.

Korg was stunned. Standing before him was a klingon and a Romulan. Both of them were dressed in pink shorts and black tank tops. "WHAT IS THIS," he bellowed. "This must be some kind of joke."

The pair of them looked completely ridicules. The ROmulan cleared his throat and spit on the floor. and lifted his own bat'leth in front of him.

"Eeewww, that is really disgusting. I hate it when you do that," said the Klingon in a very high pitched nasally voice." He looked at Melissa and Korg. "Ok, Let's get it on then." He held his bat'leth out in front of him with his eyes closed.

Korg began to laugh. "I am not going to waste my time fighting a poor excuse for a Klingon like you. You are a disgrace."

The Klingon looked at the ROmulan and then at himself," You don't like our clothes? I think the pink brings out our eyes. I am Cialis," he said. "This is my umm... partner V'agra. We re hear to train you."

"Shut up you stupid klingon," said V'agra. "They do not need to know our names. Let's fight." He again spat on the ground.

"I wish you would stop that," said Cialis.

Korg did not know if he should laugh at this odd couple or kill them. After thinking about it for a moment he decided to kill them and without warning swung his weapon at Cialis. Cialis for his part easily brought his blade up to parry the blow.

Melissa wasted no time and engaged V'agra. She brought her bat'leth down on him but was greeted with the clang of metal as the Romulan blocked the blow. Melissa pushed off against his bat'leth and swung again. V'agra took the initiative, stepped back and kicked Melissa in the abdomen he then launched a massive overhead chop with his bat'leth. Melissa parried the blow but it knocked her backwards and she fell to the floor.

V'agra charged his downed opponent and brought his bat'leth up for a killing blow. Melissa timed it just as he reached her she kicked out with her feet and sent the ROmulan flying over her. She got to her feet quickly and was ready to continue battle.

Korg was in a bad situation. After trading blows with Cialis he had been forced onto the defensive by several surprisingly powerful blows. Korg kicked out at the pink clad Klingon pushing him backwards. Korg stepped forward and sung his bat'leth. Cialis stepped out of the way of the blow and returned a blow if his own. Korg could not believe it. This monstrosity seemed to be perfect in every move. Every time he came with an attack Cialis countered it. As the fight continued Korg began to get frustrated and that frustration lead to a mistake. Cialis waded right in and launched several successive blows with the bat'leth. Korg lost his balance and fell. Cialis closed and with a roar brought the bat'let down and stopped an inch from Korg's head. "We are here to train you. This is your first lesson. Never judge your opponent by his appearance."

"Yeah," said V'agra, who was standing over Melissa. He launched another wad of spit to the floor. "We are here to train you. Program over." The holodeck reset back to its inactive status.

Korg got up and helped Melissa off the floor. "I think it is best that we to not speak of this with others."

Drills "
By: Melissa Jarvis, Chief Security Officer, [RNPC]
Korg , Klingon Security Officer , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.11 0800

Melissa's day went from bad to worse. After her rather odd sparring session with Korg and those simulate training instructors on the holodeck she should have known that things were not going to get much better. She went back to her quarters and changes into a uniform and headed to the Security Section.

Melissa entered her office to find Korg waiting for her. "We have orders from our new XO," said the klingon, handing her a PADD.

Melissa read the contents of the PADD. She sighed and then called everyone into work. All shifts, except select shift members to continue keeping the ship patrolled, were required to report to Security for drills. She waited in the common are of Security for everyone to arrive.

"Our acting XO has issued new orders," she began. "He has reviewed our performance during the prisoner uprising and has expressed his displeasure with our performance and ordered us to spend the day drilling. You will be split into two teams Team A will represent a hostile force and Team B will be ships security. When we have reached the goals set by the XO we will switch teams and do it all over again."

The room le tout a collective groan. "Everyone is to report to the holodeck 2 where your team assignments will be handed out."

***

==Holodeck 2== 1300

It had be at least the 15th time they had run this simulation. This time Melissa was certain they would meet the time goal. Her crew had been working hard and was getting nothing but bumps and bruises in return. She was 100 percent certain it was what the XO had in mind. The simulation involved quelling a riot in the Zion's brig. The problem that Melissa had with it was that it did not even closely resemble what actually happened. She was leading Team B and Korg was Leading Team A. This time the had successfully stopped the prisoners from gaining access to the ships armory. This reduced the fight to hand to hand combat. Her team quickly rounded up Team B and stopped the revolt.

The computer acknowledged that they had met the time deadline. The Room cheered, until Melissa said, "Ok, now we switch sides." The cheers switched to boos.

***

==Holodeck 2== 1800

This drill was starting to grate on everyone. Still her team had managed to throw some unexpected surprises at them and had managed to keep them from meeting their time limit. She had to admit that they were very dedicated. They could have not fought so hard and this cold have been over hours ago. They took the drills very seriously. She cold also see that there was a team bond building. Melissa was not sure if the XO intended this to happen or not, she rather doubted it though.

She launched a kick at Korg who was trying to capture her. IT missed and the big klingon knocked her down with a massive blow. He snatched her up and drug her into a brig cell. Melissa slammed her fist against the barrier in frustration. She wearily watched as the rest of her exhausted team was captured. Team A had now met the time goal.

This time the whole room erupted in cheers and then everyone looked at Melissa expectantly. "Dismissed," she said. The whole room began to clear. Melissa was looking forward to a good meal and then sleep.

"You fought well," said Korg from behind her.

Melissa turned to face the Klingon. "Thank you."

"Will you be conducting calisthenics again tomorrow," he asked.

Melissa thought about it. She was tired and every bone in her body ached. "Yes, however, after today I will probably not do them until tomorrow evening."

"May I join you again."

"Yes, 1800. Don't be late," she said.

"Very well, we will spar together this time," he suggested. The thought of having to battle a klingon dressed in pink shorts again did not appeal to him.

Melissa laughed. "See you tomorrow."

Melissa went back to her quarters and sat down in a chair and was asleep in moments.

Can I ask you a Question?"
By: Jonathan Wright, Executive Officer, [PC]
Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 1100

Commander Wright decided he was going to enjoy a holonovel, however, to do that properly he needed to be dressed for the part and for that he needed to go shopping, well sort of. The replicators in the crew living quarters worked fine for food and dishes but were not big enough for clothing and other larger items. The ship had much larger replicators located throughout the ship for the crew to use for clothing, gifts and other such items.

Wright signed onto one of these replicators. He intended to play the role of Dirk Pitt from a novel by an author named Clive Cussler. Fortunately the ships computer kept a library of all of the holonovels installed on the ship and could replicate clothing to fit any part in the story. Wright was looking though the catalog when Counselor Zoei walked in.

"Hello Counselor," greeted Wright.

"Hello, Commander," Patia smiled slightly. "How are you?"

"I'm doing well. How about you?"

"I am doing well, also, thank you. I heard a rumor my brother and his family has been station on Qul Tuq. Before we return, I wanted to have gifts for my niece and nephews. Since I had some spare time, I thought I would browse what was available." Patia shifted sligtly from one foot to the other. From what she had heard, Commander Wright was probably the person on board who had the closest relationship with Silvio. She wondered what, if anything, Silvio had told him.

"Now that our Klingon XO has taken my job away from me I get a little down time. I am going to take in a holonovel. I am just looking for the proper attire," said Wright "I think I will take Lieutenant SIlvio along as my sidekick. Every action hero needs a sidekick." Wright laughed. "There are a lot of nice gifts in here. I am sure you will have no trouble finding them something for them."

"I am sure the perfect gift will be here. The question is, will I find it," Patia chuckled. "They are twelve now, which is a bit of a challenge for an old, maiden aunt with no children of her own. Which holonovel are you going to take in?"

"I have not decided yet. I am going to select one based on a series of novels by a man named Clive Cussler. Just not sure which one yet."

"So you will be Pitt and Silvio will be Giordino?" Patia asked.

Wright smiled at Zoei, "You are familliar with Cussler's novels?" Wright was surprised that thre was another person on teh ship familliar with them.

Patia smiled slightly. "I grew up on Earth, I have an older brother who thinks he is invincible, yup, I am familiar. I prefer the Dirk Pitt novels over the Kurt Austin ones, too. My favorite is Raise the Titanic."

Wright nodded. "Yes, that was a good one."

"I had a question for you, if you don't mind. It is a personal one, though." Patia paused, hesitation evident on her face.

"Sure,: said Wright as he looked around the room. People were starting to come in and out of the room. "Let's go somewhere else though," he suggested.

"That would be a good idea," Patia nodded. The last thing she needed was rumors flying. As a counselor, it was important she was circumspect with her own life so others could feel comfortable with her discretion.

Wright led Patia to a turbolift. "Arboretum," said Wright as they got onto the lift. When they gotout they were standing in a good sized room with a few trees and benches. It was clear that the arboretum was not finished. "This is the arboretum. It was not finished during ship constuction so no one ever comes here. What is on your mind?"

"It is a personal question, about your relationship with your wife. Rather," Patia's features contorted slightly, "rather, how your relationship started. I am fumbling this badly. What I am really curious is what it was like for you, when your partner is capable of touch telepathy."

"That is a very interesting question," Wright paused, thinking back. "At the time her telepathic abilities did not matter that much to me. I knew she had them but aside from that I never game them much thought." Wright again stopped talking as his mind wandered back in time. After we were married, she bonded with me. That opened my eyes to the whole thing. It was both the greatest gift she ever gave me and the worst." Wright looked at Zoei and asked , "What do you ask?"

"I am curious about how a relationship works between when one has empathic or telepathic abilities and one does not. I know of no other person I can ask these questions. If they are too personal, I would understand." Patia was nervous enough about asking these questions.

"No, it is alright. I do not mind." Wright smiled. "I enjoy talking about T'Pril." Wright wondered why the counselor was so curious on this subject. He was not sure he would be if much help to her. "Her telepathic abilities I would say enhanced our relationship. A part of her was always with me until she died. I would not have traded that experience for anything. I do wish that I could have been a little more prepaired for what happened when she died. It took me a long time to deal with her loss."

"Do you mean the vacancy you felt when she died?" Patia asked.

"Yes, this might sound a bit selfish but I grew accustomed to having her with me. When she died that was gone. It grieved for her physical loss and also for the loss of the bond that we shared." Wright paused and sat down on a bench. "I did not expect that."

Patia nodded. "I have lived with that feeling so long, I have forgotten what it was like before I had it. Would you ever consider a relationship with another person? Would you be willing to have a relationship with someone you couldn't be bonded to, at least not the way you were with T'Pril?"

Wright thought about that for a moment. "I will never say never, however, right now, I have to say that I do not plan on having any more relationships, at least not intimate ones." Wright looked a Patia, "That is just my preference. Your situation is all together different than mine. Is there someone you are considering a relationship with?"

"Let's just say someone has expressed an interest. After Lucio died, I never decided I would never have another relationship, but as time goes on, you become accustomed to being alone. Even if you say to yourself you are not opposed to having a relationship, you can't visualize yourself as half of a partnership. Your scope of thought never includes another person, be it partner or children, or a partner's family. To have that thought shaken is a frightening thing, I have to say." Patia walked toward a bench. Her fingers rubbed the rough wood back as she looked up into the tree overhead.

"Indeed it is," said Wright. "Do you want to have a relationship with this person?"

"If I were to be interested in a relationship, this person is someone that would interest me. This person also says he understands, but if you haven't been there, I don't think you can truly understand the type of relationship I had with Lucio. How do you explain to someone that you had a piece of them inside you, and a piece of you inside them, when it isn't something most people have any frame of reference for?" Rythmically, Patia rubber her fingers up and down the bench. "Well, you know, he probably thinks he understands but I do agree with you. There is no way he could. " Right looked at Patia. "Does it really matter? When it is all said and done, the bond you had with Lucio is yours and always will be. He doesn't really need to understand it he just needs to accept it."

"That is a very good point. This also would have the potential to be very final for me, and that is probably where most of my hesitation lies. Final isn't a bad thing, necessarily, but this person is a human. There wouldn't be the empathic side of the relationship there. I have known for many years I would never be able to have that type of relationship with another person from Betazed, but maybe I have just been in denial. We were both children, but I liked that connection. I liked feeling his emotions and knowing he would feel mine, someday at least if not right then. That won't happen. It is not a comment about the unsuitability of the person, but it is an acknowledgment of, what is really going to amount to another loss for me. I can't explain this well. It is about culture and cultural expectations. It probably doesn't even matter in the long run, but it is going to be a process for me. I guess the good thing is I can recognize that now."

"Are you saying that you would not desire to have a bond with this person or that you do not think it is possible to have one because he is human?"

"It is not possible to have a bond with a human in the same way you can have a bond with another from Betazed. I am not saying it is impossible to bond, it is different."

"I am sure it would be different. Who knows? It could be a even better experience. I think it is best that you worry about that when the time comes counselor. Live for the moment and take these things one day at a time. They will work themselves out." Wright offered Zoei a smile.

Zoei returned the smile, with gritted teeth. "Sir, this is not your problem, but believe me, that is easier said than done. I appreciate you taking the time to answer those questions, though. I was out of line asking them."

Wright noted that Zoei had tensed. "You are not out of line counselor. My door is always open if you have more questions."

"It is appreciated, Sir. I will let you get back to your holonovel preparation. Say hello to Clive for me when he makes his appearance." The corners of Zoei's lips tipped upward very slightly.

"My pleasure counselor," said Wright. "Have a good afternoon."

"You as well, Sir." Patia turned quickly and walked toward the turbo lift. Her back was ramrod straight, but her head hung slightly.

Wright pondered the identity of the mysterious human who has cause such tirmoil in the counselor but only for a moment. He had a holonovel to get ready for.

Rura Penthe #86"
By: Teilani Dane, Chief Medical Officer, [PC]
Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 1330

As Teilani came back from her so called social gathering with the Captain and the Klingon XO she noticed that one of her nurse and a young crewmember were holding each other in a somewhat tightly embrace. More or less kissing and..........

"Excuse me, you to. There is a time and place for that and it is not here! She snapped at them.

The two young people did not know how fast they should let go of each other and returned to their jobs.

Teilani barged in her office and sat down at her desk, her foot tapped annoyingly on the floor. She realized that this could not go on any longer, snapping at her crew, not sleeping.

She tapped her combadge -/= Dane to Counselor Zoei. I would like to make an appointment if that is possible."

Zoei to Dane, I am working on reports for the afternoon. Whenever your schedule is free, please stop by. Patia shook her head. Tension was evident in Dr. Dane's voice. She also sounded very tired.

thank you. Expect me in about an hour or so.

Teilani looked at the pile of reports on her desk and started to sign them off one at the time. The hour passed quickly and Teilani got up to see Patia.

*** Counselor office ****

Teilani hit the door chime.

"Enter," Patia called. She stood up from her desk and pushed her chair away. She stretched slightly toward one side.

"Good afternoon Patia," she said softly as she headed for the big couch with all the pillows. Chucking a big red one to the side she made her self comfortable.

"Good afternoon, Teilani. Did you want a coffee?" Patia paused by the replicator on her way to her seat.

"Yeah why not," Teilani responded softly. She wriggled a bit on the couch and ended up propping a yellow cushion behind her back and caressed a soft pink flurry one in her arms. Absentmindedly she stroked the pink fur. Suddenly the word tribble came to mind and she chuckled.

"Raspberry Iced Tea, Jamaican blend, double hot, double sweet" Patia turned as she picked up the mugs. "What has you laughing, Teilani?"

"It’s not important,” Teilani said with a small smile, stroking the pink fur.

"What is going on that brings you here?" Patia settled in her chair and tucked her feet up under her.

"You know Patia, she started.”I will not beat around the bush but I need to have your professional opinion. Ever since we had this riot I can not got to sleep"

"Is there anything in particular that is keeping you awake? Or you just can't sleep?" Patia asked.

"I just can not get to sleep. Ever since we had this riot I am on the edge, it’s like I have to do something very important and if I go to sleep I might forget about it. It is driving me nuts and me....... Teilani clang to the pillow as she tried to hide her tears.

"Teilani, when you sleep, who do you dream of?" Patia asked.

Teilani stroke the pink fur. "home." she whispered.

"Tell me about home," Patia's voice was low. She leaned forward slightly as she waited for Teilani to continue.

Teilani shot a small smile. "Home was nice when my parents were still around. After their divorce and subsequent disappearance it all changed." Teilani spoke softly. She put the pink pillow beside her and reached for her coffee. The warm liquid managed to relax her a little.

"My elder brother suddenly had suddenly the responsibility for the rest of the family and he became overprotective, Melissa my sister well she suddenly had the idea of becoming mother for me and my baby brother. I must admit they did a fairly good job but when I applied for the academy I was forbidden to go."

Patia nodded slightly. "When you dream of home, what do you see?"

"Well I see my house it looks old and worn out, but there is no-one there, I call there is no answer, when I leave and turn around I see my brother, my sister and they look so old. They don’t say anything they just point to the road. When I walk down that road I hear some one call my name, its my little brother and he is running up to me, just as he is almost there he is stopped by something, something I can not see." He then calls out to me "Find me Lane, find me." He always called me Lani," Teilani spoke softly.

"How old are your brother and sister in your dream? Are they very old? Or just older than they were when you left?" Patia asked.

"They look very old, but why you ask?"

"Do they look the age they should be now? Or older still? Can you tell how old you are in your dream? I am just trying to understand, Teilani," Patia smiled softly.

"They look much older, actually the age my parents should have been. Me, I look the same. I see from their faces that they blame me for all that has happened."

"Have you ever considered contacting them again? I know what you said happened, but sometimes, with a little distance, feelings change."

"Oh Patia, “Teilani said barely hearable. "I feel so alone."

"Teilani, I can understand why you feel that way. Family is very important. What can we do to help you feel less alone?" Patia left the question open ended. She would be willing to assist Teilani with resuming contact with her family or helping her get in contact with someone who could help her locate her brother, but she wanted to know what Teilani's more urgent need was, in Teilani's own eyes.

"I honestly don't know Patia, Teilani said softly.” I have worked so hard to get where I am now and look where it has led me. Chief Medical officer on a big starship responsible for the ships crew. And I don't even know if my family is proud of me." Teilani sighed and her face became a bit stern, pushing away the tears and the emotions that ran havoc through her. She took some deep breaths and fixed her green eyes on Patia's face.

"I will be alright," she said as she reached out for the pink furry cushion.

"I am sure you will be all right, but there are ways we can help to make this a little easier, or to at least get some questions answered for you. Would you like me to contact your brother and sister back home?" Patia realized Teilani didn't have her pebble. "Teilani, where is your white stone?"

"Would you do that Patia, Teilani asked.”Contacting them?" She reached for her mug and finished the now cold coffee. "My stone," Teilani felt in her pocket and got a bit panicked. "I don’t know......... I ................where is it. I haven’t.......... I haven’t seen it. I must go look for it. Teilani stood up and frantically threw the cushions on the floor, reaching between the cracks of the couch.

"Teilani, please calm down. Isn't that your stone on the floor? By your foot?" Patia gestured near her left foot.

Teilani looked down and indeed there it was. She picked it up and the coolness of the pebble made her calm down. She took a deep breath as she looked at it, focused herself on the color, the touch of the little stone.

"I would be happy to contact your family for you. Let me know whom you would like me to contact and the last place you knew them to be. I will take it from there."

"I think it is better to contact Uncle Brexen first, he is not a real uncle but he will definitely know where my family is. Last time I spoke to him he was on the freighter USS Tiberius heading for Vanelan Prime." Teilani said.

“I will start there,” Patia smiled gently.

Max and Riaan "
By: Max , XO - NPC , [NPC]
Riaan, Operations Manager, [PST]

Stardate: 58205.11 1400

Max entered Operations office and located Riaan, when he spotted her, he mused to himself, "a Rutian" Max liked Rutians. They were typically aggressive and got down to business quickly.

"I am...Max, as you know, your commanding officer for the next few days."

"Lt JG Riaan, Operation's Manager." Riaan was intrigued and had a lot of respect for Klingons. They were true warriors and carried some of the same believes as what she had learned on the Panther.

"Your report please," he said.

Max read over the report on the PADD and handed it back to Riaan. "It appears you have the situation well in hand." He set the PADD back down on the desk. "Please speak candidly, in your position; do you have all the resources you need to adequately do your job?"

"I have everything I need, the crewmembers in this department are pretty good and the replicators do a good job replicating certain items that we don't need to order like uniforms. I just find the requisition forms a bit of a pain each time we need to order something. It can be time consuming but it is best to be safe keeping track of what and where the supplies are going to and that they have been shipped out and makes it easy verifying what has arrived onboard and we have an exact account of what was needed and which department had ordered something. This also helps so we know how often to reorder things having an exact account of when the orders came in."

Max and Riaan discussed the current status of the OP's department for a while. Then Max asked, "How did a Rutian come to be on a Maquis ship?" the Klingon asked.

Riann replied, "While I was serving on the Panther I had heard that the Maqui was always looking for good crew and being a mercenary and the experience I had I felt that I could help assist the maqui and I also thought it would be safer to join the maqui then being a mercenary. I spent five years on the Panther."

Max squinted, "I was not aware that the Maquis used mercenaries on their ships. So they are...paying you a mercenary's fee?"

"Actually I am no longer a mercenary I left that when I joined the Maqui, as she smiled at him. "I don't get paid for being a mercenary but a Maqui officer. That life is all behind me now and this was a new beginning after I the Panther. They had an excellent crew onboard but one never made friends not knowing if one was going to come back alive after each mission we were assigned to safer that way, here life is quite different not want I anticipated and taking some time to adjust to."

Max cracked a toothy smile, "heh, Humans!"

Riaan looked at Max, "so why did you decide to become a Klingon Warrior and do you enjoy what you are doing, as she smiled at Max.

Max chuckled, "To me, being a Klingon is synonymous with being a warrior....and yes, I do enjoy my duties."

Riaan blushed realizing what she just asked Max, "maybe you might be interested in joining me for dinner later on," as she smiled at Max. She found him some what attractive and rather muscular.

Max handed the PADD back to Riaan, "Everything looks to be in order." He stood up, "I am having security performing drills. Please review the report when the drills are complete and forward it to the tactical officer."

"Yes sir," as she looked at Max.

Max turned to go but paused. He turned back to Riaan, "Would you care to join me for dinner tonight?" he asked.

"I would be honored sir," as she smiled at Max.

"Very Good, I shall pick you up at your quarters at 1900 hours."

"Until later as she watched Max leave the office.

Message to Uncle Brexen "
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 1500

"Computer, please verify assignment for Brexen Refelian. Last known duty assignment was the USS Tiberius."

Momentarily, the computer's lilting voice responded. "Brexen Refelian is still assigned to the USS Tiberius."

"Computer, begin dictation.

Dear Brexen Refelian,

My name is Lieutenant Junior Grade Patia Zoei. I am currently serving as the ship's Chief Counselor for the USS Zion. Dr. Teilani Dane is serving on board this ship as well. Dr. Dane is doing well, however, I am trying to reach her family. I understand you may be able to assist me in this process. I would appreciate your assistance at your convenience.

Please contact me directly with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Lieutenant Junior Grade Patia Zoei USS Zion

Computer, end dictation"

Patia quickly scanned the memo. Everything was in order.

"Computer, send message to Brexen Refelian, USS Tiberius."

Patia picked up the picture. She rubbed her fingers along the intricate frame. Now, it was just a matter of waiting to see if Uncle Brexen would even respond to her missive. For Teilani's sake, she hoped he did, and soon.

Will you grow up? "
By: Jonathan Wright, Executive Officer, [PC]
Miranda, Lounge Manager, [RNPC]
Giuseppe Silvio, Chief Engineer, [RNPC]

Stardate: 58205.11 1800

Wright smiled, "Yes, it was pretty fun wasn't it Congresswoman Smith." A waiter brought their drinks and Wright turned to Silvio. "What about you Al, you did not seem to enjoy it."

Silvio was not paying attention he was staring blankly into his glass turning it around and around in his hands. His mind was clearly not on the conversation.

Wright nudged Silvio, "Hey Silvio, you there?"

Silvio's head popped up. He looked at Wright, "What," he asked.

"Everything ok Silvio? You seem preoccupied tonight."

Miranda giggled.

Wright regarded Miranda with an arched eyebrow and then returned his look to Silvio. "You two know something I don't?"

"I have had someone on my mind lately," Silvio confessed. "Sorry, I just wasn't into it tonight?"

Wright took a drink and grinned at Silvio. "Who is more important than Dirk and Al?"

"It is a woman," said Silvio. "I have never felt like this about anyone before. I have never lost sleep over a woman before." He looked at Miranda who was trying unsuccessfully to hide her amusement with this topic. He gave her his best menacing stare and said, "It's silly. I know."

This was starting to sound a little familiar. Given his earlier conversation with Patia Zoei it did not take much time for Wright to figure out who Patia's mystery man was. "Matters of the heart are not silly. You have never been in love before?"

"There is that word again," said Silvio glancing at Miranda. "How can it be love? I do not even think she shares that feeling. No, I have never been in love before."

"Silvio, you heartbreaker, you are in love," said Miranda.

Silvio ignored her.

Wright could not resist, "If you are having trouble dealing with this Silvio, perhaps you should have a visit with the counselor." Wright managed to keep a straight face.

Silvio momentarily blushed and then added, "Maybe I will."

"Silvio, by your own admission you have spent your short adulthood chasing women without a care in the world. Now you found one that you care about, is that right," asked Miranda

"Yes"

"For a genius you are not very bright. Do you not see what is happening," asked Miranda. Miranda was usually a patient person but she was struggling to keep her cool with the boy wonder. Perhaps it was her own failing relationship with TJ that was clouding her judgment. "You are finally growing up."

Silvio looked at Miranda and said nothing. She was certainly in a blunt mood today he thought. He finished his drink. "Well, I think I will be going. Perhaps I will drop in on the counselor." He stood up.

"Silvio," said Wright. "No matter what, take it one day at a time and try to enjoy it." Wright smiled.

"Yeah, thanks," said Silvio. He turned and headed for the door.

Wright turned and watched him go. The truth was that he was happy for Silvio. Miranda was right he was growing up and in Wright's opinion Silvio needed to grow up. He also thought that the counselor and Silvio would be good for each other. Only time will tell. Wright looked at Miranda. "So, what's eating you?"

Westfall's Double Jeopardy "
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]
Max , XO , [NPC]
Jeff Westfall, Tactical Officer, [PST]
Ian Hunter, Commanding Officer, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 1800

He felt devastated by the losses that were incurred during the prisoner uprising. Normally a very competent and focused officer, he wondered if he was a) "losing it" and b) what would be the best way to resolve it.

The issues were crystal clear in his mind.

First: The ship's Tactical Officer had primary responsibility to secure the ship from external threat caused by enemy attack,

assess such threat when it is known to exist, propose and co-ordinate defensive strategies, and implement them as deemed most satisfactory at an appropriate opportunity to capture a) enemy troops, b) enemy ships, c) enemy supplies.

To protect the ship, also meant to be prepared to prevent giving up opportunity to allow the ship to be boarded by hostile invaders.

In the past ten days, (according to his perception), he had failed to adequately prepare the ship to contain federation prisoners securely while being transported to the penal colony on Rura Penthe, deep in Klingon space, aboard the USS Zion.

All he could think of were the "What Ifs" and the "I should haves" and the "I should not have allowed...".

He wanted them all to die immediately for what they'd done to his ship, his captain, his First Officer. This was *his* fault. He should have known a) It wasn't safe to allow senior security officers and the Captain to escort even an ambassador on in a shuttle to anywhere, with hostile prisoners aboard--Federation prisoners and their sympathizers at that too. They should be facing Military Court Martial as enemy combatants, and be summarily executed. He'd have no problem at all putting their bodies into the replicators and pressing "recycle".

But it wasn't his world to control, that was the problem, and his first name was Jeff, his family name was Westfall--not "Almighty God".

He should have vetoed the Captain's decision to escort the Ambassador himself, assigned a senior shuttle pilot and copilot and four Marines as a personal bodyguard detail.

He should NOT have allowed the Heads of Security to accompany them, because it left the remaining junior officers without the seasoned experience of officers that only experience can *GIVE*.

He *should have* respectfully demanded (in his capacity as ship's Tactical Officer) that the Marines should have been deployed *on point* to contain an outbreak or uprising, despite the competence of his security staff, and the intelligence officers, and his complete confidence in them. This is what Marines are trained to do: Advanced incursion force to *TAKE* strategic assets, remove opposition, and then solidify control, neutralizing resistance, and finally subduing any remnants by surrender and capture or termination. They are *containment* specialists.

He had seen ship-to-ship combat many times, and the close quarters shoot-outs, illuminated by the back lighting of emergency Klaxxons, flashing their warning, seen the only light in a section, the laser-like beam from the flash of a phaser, and the reply from a Romulan Disruptor, or another captured weapon. It was the law of the wild. The first rule was, "Out there, there are no rules". That's what made total discipline, and total control over one's emotions such a key factor. Total focus would determine whether you would be the victor, or the vanquished.

The Klingons, now there was a culture to be admired. The first thought on a Klingon officer's mind, was, "It is a good day to die". And they all meant it, for they had sworn a blood oath to uphold it. Death before dishonor. To run and hide, was to dishonor one's family, and all the past and future generations. Westfall admired the Klingon sense of honor. Looking the enemy in the face, and then killing them. Surrender was the dirtiest word of all in the Klingon vocabulary. It was better to die in battle, whatever the cost...and go to Stovocor, the blessed afterlife. It reminded Westfall very much of the 20th Century Japanese Kamikaze Pilots, who swore an oath to fly their explosive laden planes into enemy ships to sink them to the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Theirs was a warrior culture, bound to their Imperial Past, when a Samurai Warrior would fall on his sword if he failed in his appointed task, rather than be captured, to live in captivity.

Jeff Westfall had followed, unswervingly, that totally focused path of the warrior, and been able, most times to be able to keep the stench of death away from his ship, it's crew, his Captain and Commander. This time though, Death had paid him a very personal visit. He lived with the memory of the approximately thirty of Captain Hunter's senior officers who had lost their lives, sacrificed in combat to stop the ship from falling into enemy hands. He lived, daily with the knowledge that at any moment, he could receive the order from his Captain or his Commander to terminate another ship, its crew, and materiel. Capture was by far, the more preferable option, if it could be accomplished. Sometimes, it could not. He thought of the Capture of the Lynx. It was a good day. He had executed his duties, and terminated the Federation Vessel, USS Bezar, with all hands aboard. He had their blood on his hands. *HE* had obeyed the order, and fired that fatal volley of photon torpedoes. They had been repeatedly hailed, they had been ordered to stand down, and failed to heed. They had, naturally, to pay the price for their ignorance of Captain Ian Hunter's authority. They were terminated, as the only outcome, in order to save the USS Lynx, and its intelligence.

It did not add up, that he should feel at all comfortable about the outcome of the prisoner uprising...over thirty loyal Maquis Officers and crew members had fallen in that fight. He could only think, what had he missed? It was not the detached strategic thinking of a professional military analyst, as he should be thinking of it, it was the nagging, tormenting doubt that threatened to consume him. He had breached his duty. He had failed by lack of due diligence, to anticipate the enemy, and their lack of honor, their use of deceit, and cowardice to open an angle of attack.

Every waking moment, when he was in the operational areas of the ship, he saw the scars of the battle. Bulkheads with discolored metal, pockmarked with scorch marks, where small weapons fire had erupted. Westfall saw the bodies of the fallen, not only in the temporary morgue, but was further reminded of them, when he saw their ship-mates, pulling together, taking up the slack, where there *should have been* a "Smith," on duty, there was a Wortzel, filling in, or having been seconded, if they were lucky. "Just wait until thirty or so of your fellow crewmen are wiped out. *If* you're a survivor, and you fight well, without getting yourself crippled, (or killed), you might get a promotion, Wortzel. That's the way to get noticed.

He saw the looks of "the survivors". Standing next to them were other crew members, not ones who had signed up to do the jobs they were filling. Shuttle pilots, helping engineers keep their craft in top pitch. Brunette females from another department--they were all competent, standing where barely two weeks before, there was a qualified male specialist. He had nothing against cross-training. Personal growth through attrition, was not the way to implement cross-training.

He had looked over the intelligence information, ship's logs, *EVERYTHING*.

There was no other way around it. There was a price to pay...and Jeff Westfall determined, at that moment, that he alone had the currency to pay it.

All he had to do was write it up by dictating it to the ship's computer, and encode it for the Captain's Eyes Only. When the data was transferred to a PADD, he put on a clean uniform, and went for a walk to find himself some dinner. it was resolved in his mind, and the course of action irrevocably set. All he needed to do was launch the plan into motion. It would not be easy, but it was the only way he could redeem himself. He was resolved to "Fall on his sword," though he would do it via formal channels. A coward he was not.

"Computer locate Captain Ian Hunter".

The computer responded in its flat monotone, as coldly as Jeff Westfall felt.

"Ensign Jeff Westfall to Captain Hunter".

"Hunter here," came the reply.

"Sir, if you have a moment, I have a report to submit, and a recommendation regarding disciplinary action that should be considered pending against a member of this crew," Westfall said.

"Now what?" thought Hunter to himself as he rubbed his eyes. "Okay Westfall, meet me in the ready room in 15 minutes."

Hunter, who was in the XO's office reviewing reports, looked over at Max, "Let's go Number One."

As Westfall arrived he was invited in by the Captain. "Please have a seat Mr. Westfall," he said gesturing to the chair next to Max, the Klingon exchange officer.

"Thank you Sirs, but I prefer to stand," Westfall said, at full attention with a look that said, "*THIS* is business". Hunter took the report and began to read it. When he was finished he took a deep breath and handed it to Max. When he had finished reading it he set it on Hunter's desk.

"What do you think?" asked Hunter of Max. He nodded and replied, "If this were a Klingon vessel, you would be demoted for your failure." "XO, Sir, I deserve to be demoted", Westfall replied.

"However," interrupted Hunter, "This isn't a Klingon vessel."

Max turned and looked at Hunter. "Nor does the failure rest solely on Westfall," said the Klingon calmly.

Hunter's turned to Westfall, "Jeff, I appreciate what you are doing, but I can't let you assume responsibility for what has happened." Captain, Sir, as I stated in my report, it was I who failed to adequately anticipate their presence as being a threat from within the confines of our own ship, and treating them as hostile. If *had* done my job properly and by the book, you would still be in command of a full officer corps. Commander Wright would still have an arm to fill the sleeve of his shirt. Not only is he an excellent Commander, but he's also, from what I hear of his reputation, and from people whose lives he has saved, an absolutely brilliant reconstructive surgeon. Hunter crossed his arms and sat back in his chair.

Right now Sirs, I feel like *I* am a threat to the health, safety, well-being and survival of this ship. I feel like my actions were, and may continue to be dangerous. I can only think of one appropriate course of action.

Max turned and asked him, "What is that?"

Given that my ability to act has been impaired by the events of the prisoner revolt, and seizure of the USS Zion by hostile enemy combatants, in my capacity as Tactical Officer, I have no other option open to me, other than to recommend that Ensign Jeff Westfall be immediately removed from active duty, and confined to quarters under Marine Guard. It would also be appropriate to inform the crew that they are to act upon *NO* order or counsel offered by me on any matter. Further, I respectfully demand, Sirs, the immediate empanelment of a General Court Martial Tribunal of my fellow and superior officers". The recommended indictment I would pursue would be multiple counts of 1) Reckless endangerment, permitting breach of access leading to the computer core, thus permitting the takeover of primary and secondary command system. 2) Providing classified information to enemy combatants due to breach of the computer core, and compromise of command codes". 3) Breach of communication security. While they had the access to the computer core, who knows what information they transmitted off the ship to their federation or "mercenary" allies that has compromised the entire Maquis Alliance Communication structure? Captain Hunter, given that *someone* and I still don't know who, was able to crack the holodeck programming and a) defeat the safety over-ride protocols, I still haven't been able to find the opening in that program. Commander Wright and Chief Silvio did a brilliant job of programming and securing that holodeck routine. I've spent hours comparing the modified code to the original, and I cannot see *how* they managed to get past the security encryption--and that *IS* my job, to see, understand and prevent exposure to precisely that kind of unacceptable risk. Hunter leaned back and paused.

"The preliminary findings are that Intel and security had incomplete information on Johnson. The security officer who ignited the entire situation. Atwood traced him to one of the so-called survivors we rescued from the Kittyhawk. He was recovered in the asteroid field light years from the where the Kittyhawk was destroyed. He was either a plant, or he was brainwashed."

"I did a shitty job of that too, Sirs, I let myself get lulled into the false sense that they were all legitimate loyal Maquis Alliance Survivors/refugees from the USS Kitty Hawk. Add a fourth indictment "Failure to maintain due diligence in the execution of his duties to protect the USS Zion". Hunter shook his head, "...there was just no way we could have known". Westfall interjected: "Captain Hunter, Sir, it is not inappropriate; in fact I am quite certain that the warriors of the Klingon Empire would have treated them with appropriate suspicion, segregating them securely until their identities could be absolutely positively verified, instead of assuming they are loyal to the Empire. They should have been treated as *unknown hostiles*. "It is my hope, XO, Sir, that I have not misspoken, based upon what I understand of structure, honor, tradition and practice of the brave warriors of the Klingon Empire. Long may it stand to strike fear into the hearts of its enemies".

Max nodded, "that does not matter. You followed your set protocols." I apologize for interrupting you Captain". "Besides," continued Hunter, "it isn't your place to tell the Captain he can't escort VIPs. Chances are, Melissa and I would have been quickly eliminated by Rogers and Birkoff," Hunter concluded.

Max took over, "It is my findings that errors in the security department caused the largest factors. Placement of the Brig, weapons locker in relationship to the Computer core and Auxiliary engineering also played into this." "And co-ordination with the Intelligence Analysts aboard the ship and at Fleet Headquarters is part of my responsibility overall to protect this ship from the threat of dissent, seizure or outright mutiny and mass insubordination, not to mention that security got "jumped" by a mob of unarmed men," Westfall said angrily, the color in his cheeks growing more red, as he bit each statement off.

"Look Westfall, by that same token, then I have failed too, for ultimately, I assume responsibility for everyone's actions on this ship."

Hunter continued, "Max has been drilling the security team, intensifying their training to better prepare them for these types of scenarios. Obviously we can't readily move the brig or the control room, but we can learn from this and make sure it never happens again."

"And from the look of all the security teams we've been getting pretty damn solidly whipped by one Klingon and his squad of thugs". I compliment you XO, Sir, on your sound thrashing of our security force, I'm glad your squad isn't all Klingon officers, or we'd have no-one left to stand watch, they'd all be in the triage infirmary in cargo bay three". "I was supposed to be recommending ongoing training. Well, I suppose I pretty solidly screwed that up too. Dr. Dane looks like she hasn't had any sleep in weeks".

Hunter leaned forward, "I can reprimand you for that, but I do not find enough evidence to place blame on the take-over on your department. I find no error in judgment or lack of performance on your part Mr. Westfall."

Hunter settled in his chair. "Further more, I find that most every department followed standing protocol." He paused. "all we can do is learn from the incident and not make the same error twice." "Captain Hunter, Sir: for the record as your Tactical Officer, I intend to submit myself to a psychological evaluation with counselor Zoei. I am at a fundamental difference of opinion with my Commanding Officer, regarding the fitness of Ensign Jeff Westfall to properly, and safely execute his duties.

Hunter smiled, he liked Westfall's candid objectiveness. I can see that as the only sane and sensible way to ensure that my actions in the past conflict, do not color my judgment, and impair my ability to act, in recommending swift and decisive action, by which in failure to act promptly will jeopardize the safety of the ship under your command, the USS Zion of the Maquis Alliance Fleet. I will be further making an appointment with Doctor Dane in her capacity as Chief Medical Officer for a full medical assessment. In four words, "I feel like hell". "XO, Sir: I request a personal meeting with you at your convenience to improve my training techniques for our officers and crew. I haven't seen a member of this crew in two weeks who isn't sporting bruises, cuts, or other injury with your training methods, and I'd like to ask if you've seen any improvement in response and preparedness". Hunter arched his eyebrow at Max who turned to Westfall. "Of course. Whatever you think is best." "I thank you both, Sirs, for your attention to my report. I thank you for your fine efforts to improve the fitness of my department to further secure the future safety of Captain Hunter's vessel. And I appreciate your willingness to accept my report, given the fundamental difference of our points of view regarding my report.

However, let the record further show, that I bear no prejudice towards the Captain the or the XO of the Klingon Imperial Fleet in their disagreement with my assessment. On a final note, I request that this discussion be submitted as a matter of official record to counselor Zoei, a) to save time in bringing her up to speed, and b) so that my recounting is not colored by my personal bias in regard to my lack of performance, Sirs...I now request permission to be dismissed, if you have nothing further to add, however I am at your disposal".

Hunter stood up as Westfall did. He looked at Westfall somewhat dismayed. Clearly he felt guilt for what happened. While Hunter felt it was indeed unfounded, it would certainly impact Westfall's performance in the future. Perhaps good, perhaps bad. Time would tell. Perhaps in his own assessment, the idea of seeing Zoei wasn't a bad one.

"I've tried to persuade you otherwise, but I will accept your report as it is. I will append my own assessment of the situation as will Max I'm sure." Hunter gestured to the Klingon. "Thank you Sirs". Jeff Westfall stood at full attention, saluted his Commanding Officers, turned on his heels, and walked out of the Captain's Ready Room marching smartly.

Hunter and Max watched as Westfall left. Max turned to Hunter, "I've spent a lot of time with humans, but I've never seen one like your tactical officer. He's very thorough." Hunter smiled slightly, as he shook his head. "He definitely believes in putting the ship's welfare ahead of his own." Max stepped closer to Hunter, "But it isn't right to try and take the blame for this incident when it should be delegated.

As he entered the turbo lift, he was still rigid. He tapped his Comm Badge: "Computer, locate Patia Zoei, Ship's Counselor, USS Zion". He *detested* contacting people after their shifts were over, unless it was a matter of "Fire, Flood, or Blood". (Red Alert was a different matter, everyone was back at their duty stations then). The Computer replied: "Counselor Zoei is located..." "Thank you", he said, absently, then seriously wondered about his mental fitness, talking back to the ship's computer, as if etiquette and social graces mattered to it. Counselor Zoei this is Tactical Officer Ensign Jeff Westfall, I wondered if I could have an appointment to meet you in your office, at your earliest convenience when you are on duty, this is not an emergency by any stretch of the imagination, I just keep replicating more savannah grass for the pink elephants. Zoei to Westfall. I am open all day tomorrow. Please let me know if it is convenient to meet at 0800. If this conflicts with your duty schedule, please feel free to suggest an alternative time." Zoei shook her head. Savannah grass and pink elephants, what would someone come up with next?

"Thank you Counselor, actually it is duty-related, so I'll arrange with the Beta Shift Tactical Officer of the Watch to relieve Gamma Shift until we finish our meeting, I'm rather concerned about the mental well-being of one of the Senior Bridge Officers. I've notified the Captain and the visiting XO from the Klingon Imperial Fleet, so I'm not in any conflict of interest. I've just had a review of my report to them, and in as few words as possible, respectfully, I disagree with their assessment of the situation, however I hold no prejudice against either of them. I made my objections known, I was given a fair opportunity to present my professional opinion, and now I'd like to solicit the opinion of the Ship's Counselor. I sincerely hope it's *MY* assessment that is in error". I'll append a copy of the log from the discussion with myself, the Captain, and the XO, that way I'm not coloring what happened with my own taint. I'll see you at 08:00 in your office, I'll be sure to bring iced tea for two. I look forward to reviewing your log. 0800, it is. 0600 should allow for enough time to review the documentation prior to her meeting with the tactical officer. "Stop," Westfall said. The turbo lift halted. Westfall realized he late for dinner, because he had been so intently focused on finishing his tactical analysis of the seizure of the ship by the prisoners and what had gone wrong. Even more seriously, he suddenly "clued in" that in his total obsession, but he'd managed to miss his lunch as well. If he didn't watch it, he was going to wind up in sick bay, and getting put on report for failure to maintain critical tactical and strategic assets (himself). All the extra work Dr. Dane had put in certainly would *not* lend any sympathy to his plight if he became ill because of sheer stupidity. "Computer: Deck ten", Westfall ordered. It was time to see if Miranda had "the touch" programmed into her replicator to do a King Cut slab of prime rib of roast beef, with thick dark gravy, roasted potatoes, baby snow peas with mint, and Yorkshire Pudding that was light and fluffy with a well in the top for yet more gravy. It was 19:40, he was hoping he could spend at least two hours putting all that away. He would try and see if she had some un-fermented Apple Cider warmed to go with it. It had been a long long time since he'd had a full meal and time to truly enjoy it. There had to be horseradish too, preferably fresh, grown in dirt. He wondered if he could ask Max, the Klingon XO out to lunch one day for a plate of fresh gach, he'd only ever sampled the replicator variety. He would never insult a Klingon by calling him *NICE*, but he envied Max's clarity of thought, and the unique perspective of the Klingon way of training in the art of making war. And his crew had the bruises, cuts and broken bones to prove it worked. They were starting to think in the "WE" paradigm, and this was a good thing, given the attrition in the crew, due to recent fatalities. Westfall exited the turbo lift, and walked down the corridor of the ship to Miranda's. So, there would be no General Court Martial for him. Good. He still had far too much work to do. All in all, it was "A good day for his FEARS to die". He recalled a quotation he had once read from the Vulcan First Officer of the original USS Enterprise NCC-1701, "Fear is the mind-killer". Mr. Spock, you are correct.

What's Eating Miranda "
By: Miranda, Lounge Manager, [RNPC]
Jonathan Wright, Executive Officer, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 1925

==Miranda's==

"What do you mean Commander," asked Miranda as she watched Silvio leave. "I just think Silvio is being childish." Miranda did not look Wright in the eyes. "That's all."

Wright took a drink from his glass. "This might very well be the first time that *young* Silvio has ever been in love," he suggested. "Does it bother you that Silvio has fallen for someone, perhaps you had your eye on him?"

Miranda actually laughed. "Not hardly, he is a heart breaker by reputation. My heart belongs to a different engineer." Miranda thought of TJ. In many ways he was a lot like Silvio. Miranda wondered if perhaps she was being a bit hard on him.

Wright arched an eyebrow, "Really, I did not know that."

"Yeah, The Chief Engineer on the Atlanta, TJ." Miranda sighed.

"You and he are together then?"

"We used to be," Miranda paused, "in many ways he and Silvio are alike."

"I see, so you want to take your frustrations out on Silvio because he reminds you of TJ?" Wright took another drink.

Miranda bristled, "That is not true." Miranda rolled your eyes, "Have you any idea how many crew members come in here and tell me there sad stories?" Miranda looked around the room. "I have tell you in fabulous detail about the love life of about 10 people who are currently in this room." She sighed, "I get tired of it, they are all the same sad story."

"You could tell them to go to see counselor Zoei," suggested Wright.

Miranda laughed, "I do most of the time, but for some reason people want to tell their stories to a bartender."

Wright took another drink, "I have to say I am surprised, I thought you enjoyed listening to people. You are El-Aurian after all."

"I am only half El-Aurian, and I usually do not mind, I guess I just need a break."

Wright smiled, "Excellent, I just happen to be all about taking a break. I am going to spend the rest of my vacation on the holodeck, starting tomorrow. If you can arrange some time away from this place you are welcome to join me."

Miranda looked at Wright suspiciously, "Are you asking me out on a date Commander?"

Wright's smile went away, "I am not. You are an attractive person, however, I am not looking for any more relationships, I can only offer you my friendship and a chance to relax a bit."

"I think I would like that," said Miranda.

Wright stood up and flashed her a smile. "Great, 0800 tomorrow, holosuite 7."

"I will see you then," said Miranda, "you have a good night Commander."

Miranda watched as Wright left. She felt a bit foolish for behaving like she did. Perhaps she did need a break.

The Captain's Yacht "
By: Giuseppe Silvio, Chief Engineer, [RNPC]
Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 2000

Patia settled into the corner of the couch in her office. It had been a long day and she still hadn't found gifts for her brother's children. She leaned her head back. Her eyes drifted shut as she reflected on the conversation with Commander Wright. Conflicting emotions coursed through her. It was times like this that she wished she could speak to her mother.

Silvio decided that he would take Commander Wright's suggestion and drop in on Patia, after all if she was going to keep him awake all night he might as well at least see her today. He found her in her office as usual. Silvio rang her door chime.

"Come in," Patia called. Her eyes fluttered open.

The doors slid open. Silvio stepped inside the door and said. "Hi there, do you want to see something cool?" He flashed her a smile. "Follow me."

"Hi there." Patia slipped her legs out from under her. Her movements were graceful and deliberate. "I would love to." She wove her way around the couches and crossed to the doorway.

"Good," Silvio impulsively took her by the hand and led her to the turbolift. "Deck 10" he said. As the turbolift engaged he realized he still held her hand. It felt good, however, he reluctantly let go if it because he did not want to be too forward with her.

As Silvio's hand dropped from hers, a feeling of coolness seeped into her. It had been a nice feeling, one she hadn't experienced before.

Once on deck ten Silvio led the way through a short corridor and ended at a hatch. Silvio tapped a few commands into a keypad and the hatch opened with a hiss. "After you," he said.

Together the went though a short access way and yet another hatch. "Welcome to the Captain's yacht. This is the best view on the Zion. " He led the way to the main suite. It had a 360 degree panoramic view of space. The stars streaked by them. "It is truly an awesome view.

"It is breath taking, just breath taking." Patia walked slowly to the window. She pressed her palm against the cool surface. Her head swiveled as she watched the stars.

"This is my most favorite place on the ship," said Silvio. "I come here often to think." Silvio walked to the window and stood next to Patia and gazed at the stars.

"I had no idea this was even here. I believe this is your favorite place. It very well could be mine from now on, too." Patia turned toward Silvio and smiled slightly.

"Not many people know about it. It is a secured area," Silvio had always thought this was the most beautiful place on the Zion but now seeing Patia against the backdrop of the starscape it was even more breathtaking. He gently reached out and brushed the side of her face with his hand.

Patia turned her head, so her check pressed against his hand. Slowly, she reached up to lay her hand over his. More slowly yet, she slid her fingers along his and brought their hands down. Her features softened as she smiled again at him, before she turned to look out at the passing stars again.

Silvio gently squeezed her hand and turned back to the window. The two of them watched the stars fly by in silence.

Rura Penthe #90"
By: Teilani Dane, Chief Medical Officer, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.11 2105

==Teilani’s quarters ===

Teilani had decided to go to her quarters a bit early. She had taken a hypo from sickbay containing some sleeping medications. Although she was reluctant to use it, she had to get some good night of sleep. The dreams about home had become more vivid, more painful to watch in fact.

She stretched out on the sofa and was about to read a medical article when her combadge chirped.

Jackson to Dr Dane.”

Dane here, what’s the matter Jackson?” she asked.

Could you come to sickbay doc, we have a crisis here.” In the back ground Teilani heard some noises.

=/ I will be there in 10 minutes, Dane out.”

Teilani stood up and walked to her bed room and changed back into her uniform again.

==Sickbay==

As Teilani entered sickbay she was struck by the number of people in there. According to the colour or the shirts they were all from the security department. And judging from their appearances they looked awful.

“O.k,” she said. “Now where is the emergency?”

Teilani saw that all of the medical crew were helping the injured. Even the EMH was activated.. The EMH had taken up residence at the front door doing immediate diagnosis of those that were coming in. For all his programming and hapless lack of bedside manner, but efficiency was unmatched in diagnostics.

"What's the casualty status so far Xioa?" Teilani asked.

"Count including Crewman Flange, 2 requiring surgery and numerous minor wounds. We've been turning a lot of crew away at the door unless they are life threatening," Xioa recounted to Teilani "Ensign Kirby will be back to her duty post within a couple days. It was a minor sprain when she fell.”

“Thanks,” Teilani said. She walked towards the main sickbay and grabbed a tricorder. “Alright ladies and gentlemen,” she said. “Those who have been cleared by the EMH step this way please.

For the next few hours Teilani and her crew worked like mad men to get all the security personnel back on their feet again.

“What happened,” she asked a young crewman. “Well you know that Lt Carter’s has switched with one of the Klingons?” he stated.

Teilani nodded. “Well Doc, he and Lt Jarvis found that we were slacking on the job and they made us repeat a training program over and over again.”

“I see,” Teilani said as she pressed a hypospray against the young man’s neck. “And have you learned anything?”

“Well I only learned that my body aches all over and that we screwed up during the riot and also that Klingons are hard teachers.”

Teilani chuckled. “At least you learned something. Now take it easy for a while.”

“Thanks doc,” he said as he slide of the biobed.

“Your welcome Ensign,” Teilani replied. “Who’s next!”

Log Index | Go to Stardate 58205.12