Mike Rampton
USS Dark Phoenix
Commander
It's gonna be a 'long' flight !
Posts: 48
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Post by Mike Rampton on Feb 25, 2009 19:41:54 GMT
Mike had been stationed back at Resurrection since the Dark Phoenix had last docked. He had remained behind at the request of Captain Mercy, mainly, to oversee the newest batch of cadets assigned to flight training. But Naois wanted his Exec at the Academy rather than leaving it with no Senior Staff. In truth, Mike was glad of the opportunity to get back to what he knew best. Gallivanting round the galaxy was all well and good, he always said, but the thrill of almost ploughing straight into a rogue asteroid, in a shuttle flown by an extremely nervous and wet-panted cadet couldn't be beaten in his view. It had been a long day .. He had been out with no less than six cadets, nd wasn't looking forward to getting their flight assessment reports done for the morning. Throwing his tunic over the arm of the closest chair to the replicator in his quarters, he ordered a brandy .. Watching as the snifter materialized, he rubbed his neck. It was stiff again, and he knew he would need a visit to Medical before going out tomorrow. Taking the glass he lifted it to eye-level, appreciating the natural golden color as he moved toward his settee and the waiting reports. He noticed the 'message' light blinking silently on his console, placing the glass beside the screen he voice-activated the device. 'ONE MESSAGE PENDING' was blinking in and out of existence .. "Computer .. Open message." he said, sitting at the desk. "Security Access code required." Mike frowned, wondering who would be sending him secure messages, but he gave the code and the screen changed, to show a woman he recognized instantly, but looked at the recording in puzzlement as she looked back sadly before speaking .. "Hello Mike." she began, "Not too sure if you would remember me. Kelly. Kelly Bartlett .. We met on Mars while you were seeing Rachael." Rampton remained silent as the woman wiped her eyes. He did remember her, and her partner of course, they had gone out on umpteen double dates, the four almost inseparable while stationed at Utopia Planitia. "Sorry ..." Kelly said, wiping her eyes yet again, "I have some bad news Mike. Rachael was in an accident on the surface of the planet they were studying ... Details are sketchy at best, but it seems there was some sort of cave-in. Rachael and several others were trapped under the rubble ...... It took ... Almost six hours to get to the bod ... To get to the team ... Mike, Rachael was dead before they could get to her ... I'm so sorry you have to hear this, but I needed you to know." Mike was reeling from the news. He and Rachael had dated for almost a year before she got the assignment on the Calisto. for reasons unfathomable, they never kept in touch after the first few Comms, and Mike hadn't thought about her in years. "Mike ... I'm on my way to Resurrection. I need you to be there when I arrive .. I, We, should be docking in three days. I'm bringing someone with me ......" she moved the screen to include another person, a girl, approximately nine, maybe ten years old, brown hair, very pretty, "This is Chloe .. She's .. Your Daughter .. I'll explain all I can when we get there OK. But it was always Rachael's wish, and Chloe's too, that if anything should happen to her you shou ...... We'll see you in three days Mike. Please be there." The recording finished. Rampton sat looking deep into the blank screen for what seemed hours. The brandy glass inches from his lips ..........
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Mike Rampton
USS Dark Phoenix
Commander
It's gonna be a 'long' flight !
Posts: 48
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Post by Mike Rampton on Feb 26, 2009 19:28:07 GMT
Over the next two days, Mike had replayed the Comm message over and over. He'd allocated flight Instructors to the Cadets needing training, and had asked them to compile the reports themselves. He trusted his staff enough to make the correct calls.
Sitting in his quarters he spoke to the terminal ..
"Computer .. Show all records of Rachael Joanne Giblin."
After inputting his security access, the base complied with his request. It was all there, she had taken the position on the Calypso and they had not seen each other since. She found out she was pregnant weeks after departure, but for whatever reasons, chose not to inform him.
Chloe was the product of their relationship, now a lovely ten year old girl, a motherless ten year old. Rampton had spent the last couple of days trying to come to terms with the fact he was a father, had been one for ten years apparently. But the main question was what was going to happen now. Kelly had said that he was to take care of her in the event something, bad, happened, so he assumed all the relevant paperwork had been completed. Along with a DNA test he guessed ..
"Computer .. Time to arrival USS Emily Rose ?"
"The Emily Rose will dock in nine hours fourteen minutes."
'Nine hours' he thought ... Nine hours before he met his Daughter. He glanced around his quarters, they were standard for someone of his position, but still single quarters. He wondered if she, they, would want to stay in separate quarters, or if Chloe and Kelly expected to stay with him, this is silly, he was jumping far to far ahead .. He rubbed his temples, trying in vain to rid himself of the headache developing, but it wasn't working.
He got up and moved to the bedroom. Lying down he wondered if he'd manage to sleep.
"Computer .. Reduce illumination to five percent .. Wake up call in six hours."
The lights dimmed to almost off, and less than a minute later Mike was entering a deep, fitful, sleep .....
~~~~~~~~~~
A constant buzzing woke him, the lights had returned to full brightness and the computer was ensuring he was up at his requested hour.
Swinging his legs off the bed he rubbed his eyes to clear the sleep.
"Computer .. time to arrival USS Emily Rose ?"
"The Emily Rose will dock in two hours forty three minutes."
"Great !" he said.
"Please repea ...."
"Forget it." Mike said, heading for the bathroom and a much needed shower.
Less than an hour later he was dressed in a clean, pressed uniform on his way to the observation lounge. He would be able to watch the Emily Rose on her approach to the Star base. then once the docking was complete and authorizations for passengers coming to the 'base were completed, they, Kelly, and his Daughter, would come down the ramp, and they would meet for the first time.
Suddenly his Comms badge chirped ..
=^= Commander .. Communication from the Emily Rose .. Should I patch it through ? =^=
=^= Yes =^= Mike said, after a slight hesitation.
=^= Mike .. It's Kelly .. Glad I managed to get through .. Chloe is in the other room packing .. I just wanted to make sure you were waiting for us ...... =^=
=^= I'm here yes =^=
=^= Good .. Thank you .. Chloe has been asking all sorts of questions about you .. She's understandably nervous about all this but I'm sure it will be fine .. See you in a couple of hours Mike =^=
The Comm closed and Rampton found a seat that gave him a good view of space. Somewhere out there, was his Daughter. He of course knew where the ship was but at this distance it was still invisible to the Human eye .. It dawned on him suddenly that he was as nervous as hell about this meeting, and wondered why the seconds seemed to be ticking off much too quickly ..........
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 2, 2009 14:47:03 GMT
"Commander Rampton, please report to OPS," came the voice of old Doctor Antoine Donolly over the intercom. The old phycisian had been on duty at the science station, to take over from Ensign DeSoto as she took a small break. "I'm receiving new orders for you sir."
On the bridge, Antoine transferred the incoming data to a PADD, ready to give to Rampton. When the commander arrived, apparently having hurried himself, the old man handed it over without prompting. "You're to report to the Dark Phoenix as soon as she docks sir," he stated gravely, "and you're to hand these transfer orders to Captain Mercy." He handed Mike another PADD. "I don't like it, but it's his choice I suppose...."
He sighed briefly. "Admiral Brahms will be assigned to this station as commanding officer upon his recovery. And I have high hope that he will recover."
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Post by Mel D'BrooNi on Mar 2, 2009 23:02:27 GMT
The return to the starbase had been fairly uneventful, despite being accompanied by several Klingon vessels. Mel had spent many hours conversing with Dukaths engineers and pouring over the Wahiri schematics and some of the pieces of the Cat beings ships that Dukath in his encounter with them had salvaged.
Infact she already had a team working on simulations to find a weakness that they could use if they came up against the aliens again.
"Mel," Charlie grabbed her attention standing at the door to her office. "We are ready to commence the holodec simulations as soon as you give the word."
"Good work," Mel smiled at her assistant chief. "Schedule them for . . . " she pulled up her calendar, "the day after tommorow." Lorena was due back that afternoon and considering Tay was still sulking, some family time was probably a good idea before burying herself in this project. And she fully intended to completely strip and comprehend everything. At least Peter could not pull her off the holotesting stage, as there was no danger to her or the baby.
A couple of hours later, having changed into civilian wear, Mel joined Ian in their lounge.
"He briefly came out and had some lunch but still isn't talking," Ian told her. "Kenji came round and he waited 2 hours with me, that kids only been playing chess for 2 days by the way and he's beaten me a total of 16 games . . ." Ian trialed off as Mel's face clearly didn't care to know that at the moment.
"Right, I've had enough," she replied walking to the door.
"Tay, mums docking very soon and we are all going to be there to greet her, so you get out here now or I am unlocking this door and coming in. I haven't had my shot today so you really do not want to try my patience. Is that clear?"
She lent back against the wall next to the door arms folded as Nobu plodded up and started sniffing the door. Ian looked at her and shrugged, then looked completely thrown off balance as there was a hiss and the door opened.
Tay walked out carrying a PADD. "Thats okay, I have finished now," he muttered.
Mel knelt down and had a good look at her brother. There were dark circles under his eyes. "Finished what?" she asked pulling the clean shirt she had put to one side so he looked smart to greet Lorena to her.
"Reading up on the starfleet constitution," he stated seriously.
"Arm," Mel demanded holding the shirt out for him to wear over his t-shirt. "And why have you locked yourself in your room for a total of 2 days to read that?"
Tay put his arm in the sleeve she was holding out then moved round and put his other arm in the otherside.
"To prove that starfleet does not condone the forcefeeding of anybody under it."
Mel groaned as she started fastening his buttons. "See Mel its right here in section 329/Beta. Food may only be forced upon someone in a medical emergency. And even then its in a tubular liquid or pill form."
"Tay," she said softly ruffling his hair. "Peter would not have forced you to eat anything. He was making an idle threat to try teach you a valuable lesson. You were just both angry and said some stupid things to each other. You know when we fight, we do that. Well you just need to let it go, like we do after we have an argument."
Tay sighed, looked pensieve but said nothing. "Here you can walk Nobu," Mel said handing the leash to her brother and bending down to clip it to the Cairn. Ian grabbed his jacket and held Mel's bag out to her. She grabbed it with her free hand, and held Tay's with her other happy to see that he was at least cooperating now.
"Kenji came to visit," Ian told him as they left the quarters.
Tay nodded. "He's probably angry at me, but I had to finish what I was reading, but I did make him this in the last hour," he pulled a rolled up piece of paper out of his back pocket and handed it to Ian.
Ian unrolled it to see pictures of Tay and Kenji from when the boy had stayed with them, one of Seleya and Mel and Ian and for some reason a drawing of an ice cream sundae and a building block house.
"I wanted him to have some memories of us for when he moves into his and his mums new apartment on the starbase," Tay shrugged. "I didn't want him to forget us."
Mel felt like she was melting and smiled at her brother. These were the times he made all the trouble he put them through worth it. "He's not going to forget you. You can talk by subspace and see him every time we come back to Resurrection. And I'm sure hes not mad at you."
"You know he's pretty good at chess now," Ian told him as they rounded the corner to the airlock docked to the station. "You should really play him before we leave here again. Bet me several times."
"Well its not hard," Tay teased, finally smiling and proving his sulking was over.
"Hey," Ian mock protested. "But I tell you what we can do, go buy him a chess board and you can give it him as a gift. If he is mad at you he won't stay mad long ehh." He winked at Tay who nodded in agreement.
A vulcan walked past them and Tay looked thoughtful once more. In fact he stopped and looked at Mel.
"Is Seleya still sick? I didn't mean for her to get sick."
"She's fine darling. Look why don't we go round and see her once mums got back and settled," Mel soothed.
"Maybe," he said after a long moment. Mel moved her arm round to hug him as they walked along the corridoor ready to met Lorena.
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 3, 2009 20:36:22 GMT
Harley hugged her daughter once Valeia signaled she could do so. "You silly girl," she chided, "how could you eat so many?"
The youngster wrapped her arms around her mother's neck, sobbing softly. "I didn't want to stay behind on Tay, he ate three.."
Harley raised an eyebrow at Valeia. "Three?" She chuckled. "And what did your father have to say about that?" She knew Peter would've had something to say on it, especially when he was attempting to teach his daughter some emotional restraint. Over their bond, she could feel his annoyance and then something else. She raised the other brow as well. "He's dreaming?" she wondered aloud, "he never dreams..."
She held her child close to her. "He's on duty isn't he? Seleya, is daddy on the bridge?"
"Yes, and he was mean to Tay mommy, he said Tay couldn't be my friend."
Harley turned, knowing that Valeia would be busy with Merzan. She did spot the Kzinti officer still cooped up in sickbay. "Sir, would you mind terribly watching her for a few minutes?" she asked of him, "she's a quiet child, just please hold her close?" She promtly deposited the still crying child in the feline's arms. "I won't be long sir, I promise!"
(tak)
Harley stalked out of sickbay and found her way to the bridge, which was a place she rarely visited, even more so when her mate was on duty. She cound him slumped in the center seat, his eyes open but unfocused, his face leaning on his left hand. "Peter?" she called. No response.
She approached the chair, nudging her husband. "Peter wake up!" she said sternly, raising up his face so he was forced to look up. "Wake up!" she repeated, "I want a word with you, in private."
The Vulcan's eyes regained their focus as they settled on the angry nurse. "Harley?" he queried, clearly confused.
"When was the last time you slept?" she demanded, fully aware of the time spent in sickbay. "Since when do you dream?"
Peter blinked in genuine surprise, both at her knowledge and her apparent annoyance. "I do not know," he confessed, "it was not dreaming it was...recalling a memory of my childhood." He told her what he had dreamt, watching her carefully.
"You should tell Tay, you owe him an apology Peter. You were too harsh on the child."
Peter nodded. "I will," he promised, "when he contacts me. I promised Melanie I would not seek him out, so I will not. I am, however going to see the doctor. I find these...dreams...disturbing, especially while on duty. Anyone could have approached like you did, and killed me. I did not hear you approach."
"I'm off duty. When you leave sickbay, pick up Seleya. I've left her with ensign Science, who was still in sickbay."
Peter nodded. "Sharon, you have the bridge." While Harley got off at deck two, Peter got off a few decks later. "Doctor, do you have a moment?" he asked softly, "I have a problem. While I was on duty, I appeared to be dreaming. I am quite certain I was awake, but I was not aware of my surroundings. It has left me feeling...disoriented. Can you help me?"
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Post by Dr. Valeia Roquel Mercy on Mar 4, 2009 4:14:08 GMT
"Yes it is unexpected," K’Nara replied, ignoring the doctor’s emotional outburst as she dutifully headed back to her biobed, much to Valeia’s surprise and satisfaction. “And as such I intend to make some staffing changes. Peter Horn is now the XO, and its dawns on me, we are in need of a Chief Counselor," the new Captain added casually before raising her voice and calling, "Mr. Mercy, if I may have a moment of your time…I wish to discuss your transfer to the Dark Phoenix…permanently."
As Valeia stared in disbelief, K’Nara added dryly. "If I must be surrounded by annoying logical Vulcans, I suppose I should keep them close so as to keep a proper eye on them and their behavior. However, I must stress, if he so much as tries to call me in for a psychological analysis, then the cake, that Mr. Horn will no doubt produce at the most stupid of times, is going to head face first into Naois this time around."
Struggling between the hope and joy of having Naois stay with her and the harsh reality that he had never expressed any interest in transferring and that she knew he loved his job on the starbase, Valeia glanced between her new Captain and her husband trying to figure out what was going on, but neither gave her any indication of any previous arrangement. Finally, the doctor managed to speak. “Well...I think that’s up to Naois, Captain. Whether or not he wishes to transfer is his decision.”
Incredibly confused, Doctor Mercy was having trouble understanding why K’Nara would mention something like this out of the blue if Naois hadn’t requested it, yet he hadn’t said one word to her about a transfer. It didn’t make any sense... Valeia glanced at Naois and very quietly added. “You know that I support you no matter what you choose to do, including remaining on the starbase and the job you love.” A small smile escaped in spite of her attempt to remain...well...logical. “But you know I would be very happy if you transferred here...not that I want...I mean expect that.”
Seeing Peter walk into sickbay behind Naois, Valeia decided that talking about this later was a better idea, especially since she was getting all emotional…again… “I have to take care of Commander Horn now,” the doctor added quickly moving to the door. She didn’t even know if the security chief, correction, new XO, was there to get treatment, but it had offered her a way out.
"Doctor, do you have a moment? I have a problem,” he began now pulling her attention from her confusion and back onto work. “While I was on duty, I appeared to be dreaming. I’m quite certain I was awake, but I was not aware of my surroundings. It has left me feeling...disoriented. Can you help me?” he requested, his voice and emotions reflecting his confusion.
Leading the Commander over to a biobed, Valeia replied, “Well...it sounds like you were just daydreaming, but I can check to make sure there’s nothing neurologically wrong with you just to make sure. Otherwise, I would suggest talking to Naois...or, well any of the counseling staff here on the Phoenix.” Frowning as the same topic had come up almost immediately, Doctor Mercy began the scans. “Umm…Peter, I was wondering...has Naois said anything to you about transferring here? Because Commander Corval mentioned it just now, but it almost sounded like it was her idea. I would love having him here, but he loves his job on the starbase, and I don’t want him forced into anything... Do you know anything about this?” Valeia asked.
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 4, 2009 5:02:53 GMT
Peter nodded, not wholly convinced that he was awake. "Please," he encouraged, "it would not do to fail in my duty, especially not with K'Nara as taskmaster. I will speak to Naois when you are finished with the scan." He listened as Valeia mentioned her husband and repeated the captain's words.
"I fear Naois has not spoken to me about a transfer to the Dark Phoenix, pending or otherwise," he confessed, while lying down on the biobed. He still felt slightly disoriented. "Another thing doctor, Vulcans do not daydream." He paused, then told her about the memory he experienced. "It was disturbing," he added, "I had not thought about the event in years, and it was hardly a solitary event."
He smiled wryly. "It was an almost weekly occurrance, until I turned approximately ten and the security chief had enough. I only wonder why the memories resurface now, and not before." He closed his eyes as he submitted to the scans.
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Post by K'nara Corval on Mar 4, 2009 19:20:29 GMT
K'Nara sat up straight as Naois left Merzan, who stared at her with a face she could not read.
"How is he?" she asked.
<Naois>
Nodding, she looked at the Vulcan seriously. "Do everything you deem necessary, I will speak to Dukath. Leave that with me."
<Naois>
"Yes, I am making you an offer of employment. The Admiral has said if I wish to make any staff changes to inform her and the ship is need of a chief counselor and you, I am sure would like to be permantly reunited with your wife. Is that not the logical thing to do?"
"I may not like you personally but then again my new XO is not my favourite person most of the time either, but I do respect and recognise a good employment record when I see one. And," She took a deep breath, "You told me to teach you about my culture. I believe the psychological belief is that with knowledge can come understanding?" She questioned. Naois nodded. "Then I can try to do the same."
"Recent events have illuminated to me how things can change and relationships also," she looked over at Merzan with sadness. "I'm not an easy person to get on with, Mr Mercy as you well know, and we have clashed over my methods before and will no doubt again. My stubborness is not going to go away and I am not saying you will get through to me on every occasion but the ones where its really necessary I do have faith in you or I would not be asking now. So take some time, think about it, discuss it with Valeia and get back to me," She finished to the Vulcans utter astonishment.
Tag <Naois>
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 4, 2009 20:09:18 GMT
"How is he?" she asked.
"He will recover," the Vulcan replied solemnly, not taking his eyes off his patient. "He will not talk to me at present, but I believe he may call for me soon enough." He offered the Klingons a wry smile. "Contrary to what you claim, even Klingons need to pour their hearts out once in a while. And who listens better than a counselor? Trust me captain, he will talk to me one way or another, but I cannot force him to."
"Do everything you deem necessary, I will speak to Dukath. Leave that with me."
"As you wish captain," he replied evenly, "however, as I said, Merzan must not be forced. He must come to terms with the present on his own terms. I do suggest though, that you spend as much time with him as you can, as obviously you know him a great deal better than I do."
Then he seemed to realise that K'Nara offered him a position on the Phoenix. Of course, he had already applied for a transfer but it did mean a lot to him personally to be offered the position. And he certainly wasn't going to tell her that. "Are you offering me a position aboard your vessel captain?" he asked, clearly stunned.
"Yes, I am making you an offer of employment. The Admiral has said if I wish to make any staff changes to inform her and the ship is need of a chief counselor and you, I am sure would like to be permantly reunited with your wife. Is that not the logical thing to do?"
"Indeed I do," Naois acknowledged, smiling slightly. His eyes softened as he regarded the Klingon. "I am merely...surprised that you offer it to me, as clearly we do not get along so well. Nor do you seem to get along with any other Vulcan."
"I may not like you personally but then again my new XO is not my favourite person most of the time either, but I do respect and recognise a good employment record when I see one. And," She took a deep breath, "You told me to teach you about my culture. I believe the psychological belief is that with knowledge can come understanding?" She questioned. Naois nodded. "Then I can try to do the same."
"Personal liking does not factor in when one is to perform their duties to the best of their abilities," Naois lectured, his voice teasing, "however I do agree that respect and record do make a difference."
"Recent events have illuminated to me how things can change and relationships also," she looked over at Merzan with sadness. "I'm not an easy person to get on with, Mr Mercy as you well know, and we have clashed over my methods before and will no doubt again. My stubborness is not going to go away and I am not saying you will get through to me on every occasion but the ones where its really necessary I do have faith in you or I would not be asking now. So take some time, think about it, discuss it with Valeia and get back to me," She finished to the Vulcans utter astonishment.
"I am grateful for the opportunity you offer me, and I shall accept it. There is no need for me to consider it, as I know what Valeia will say." He paused briefly, nodding slightly. "And knowledge does improve understanding, and I believe both of us have a long way to go there. We have time wherein you shall teach me, and I shall teach you. One step at the time, agreed?" He appreciated her honesty, which would hopefully make it easier for him to help her.
He looked over his shoulder when he sensed another troubled mind, one with the mental barriers down. He arched an eyebrow as he spotted Peter talking to Valeia, then sensed her thoughts as well. Still watching, he observed Peter walking away, pick up his daughter and come back. "Peter," he greeted softly, "are you in need of my services?"
"Maybe later Naois," the younger man answered coldly, eyes hooded and expression drawn. "I have to get Seleya home, I am due back on the bridge. Good day." With his daughter clinging to him, still sobbing softly, the first officer exited sickbay, without so much as acknowledging K'Nara's presence.
"That was odd," Naois mused, eyes shifting back to the commanding officer. "Something is bothering him, to the point of a break in concentration."
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Post by Mel D'BrooNi on Mar 4, 2009 20:43:36 GMT
Still waiting for Lorena's transport which was apparently running late, Tay, Mel and Ian were sat on a bench waiting. Mel could tell her brother was getting bored waiting around with only people watching to do.
"T'Kona's family have agreed to the bonding," A vulcan muttered to another one walking past them. Tay looked confused.
"Mel, what is a bonding?" he asked curiously.
"Its a joining, between two vulcans," She answered not sure where this was going. "I do not know much more than that honey but you know you shouldn't be eaves dropping."She scolded him.
"I couldn't help it, they just walked past," he muttered. "Can I borrow that?" He asked Ian pointing to his PADD that he had been happily reading a book on.
Ian saved his chapter and handed it to him. Leaving him to it, they continued waiting.
..........................
Lorena, it was apparent after they had had dinner on the starbase was exhasted from her trip, so ordering her mother to take a long nap, Mel offered to look after Tay for a little longer. Suprisingly he had been distant during the dinner.
"Mel, can we still visit Seleya?" he asked finally.
Mel answered, "Of course. Come on,"
Ian waved them off happy to return to his novel.
"I'm glad you decided to visit your friend," Mel said encouragingly as they walked to Peter and harleys quarters.
"Well actually I have a couple of important things to say to Mr Horn," Tay answered.
Mel beamed. He was going to apologise. Peter would be pleased and they could get this whole thing sorted out. Hugging him again, she chimed the door and Harley answered.
"Can we come visit?" Mel asked.
Tag < Horn>
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Mike Rampton
USS Dark Phoenix
Commander
It's gonna be a 'long' flight !
Posts: 48
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Post by Mike Rampton on Mar 4, 2009 21:23:12 GMT
He dressed, undressed, and then finally deciding on a duty uniform rather than the dress one he'd considered, he left his quarters ..
He'd already arranged rooms for Kelly and Chloe, his Daughter ... They would be staying several decks above him, an accommodation suite normally reserved for visiting dignitaries. He had pulled in 'plenty' accrued favors for the use of the rooms. Checking the chronometer, he had forty minutes before he needed to be at arrivals. He was about to leave when the Comm chirped to life ..
=^= Commander Rampton .. Please report to Operations .... I am receiving new orders for you =^=
Mike frowned. He recognized the voice, and wondered who or why he'd be getting transfered at a time like this. Glancing at the time again, he decided could make it to Opps and still get to the dock to meet Kelly and Chloe.
=^= On my way Antoine .. But I'm in a bit of a hurry =^=
=^= I'm transferring the orders to a PADD so you can pick them up =^=
=^= I'll be there shortly =^= Mike said closing the Comm.
~~~~~~~~~~
Arriving at the base Command center, he moved over to the Science station, where 'Doc' Donolly had been covering for someone.
"Hey." Mike said, taking the offered PADD and then began to read, his face dropping by the second, "The Phoenix ?" he finally managed to say.
"You're to report to the Dark Phoenix as soon as she docks." he stated gravely, "You are to hand the transfer orders to Captain Mercy ... I don't like it, but it's his choice I suppose ...."
Rampton's head was in turmoil, he was being moved from Resurrection at the same time his newly found daughter was arriving ... 'This cannot happen !' he thought to himself before turning to Donolly.
"Antoine, you know my Daughter is arriving in less than an hour." he said almost desperately, "What the HELL am I going to tell her ?"
Donolly put his hand on Mike's shoulder. They were friends, and he wanted to comfort Mike in his hour of need. Then a thought occurred ...
"Take her !" he said simply, shrugging.
"What ?"
"Well ... The Phoenix is two day's out, i think." the old man said, thinking furiously, "That gives you two day's to say your hello's and begin to get to know each other, then you both have a new start .. Together .. On the Dark Phoenix."
"What ... How can I just uproot a ten yea ....."
"She's already had her share of uprooting my young friend."
"But the ship !" Mike said, "Accomo ....."
"It has been arranged Michael." Antoine said soothingly, "You will be assigned family quarters once you report to the ship."
It suddenly began to dawn on Rampton how much effort people had put into him, and his new life. He looked at the PADD, still un-activated. He had no idea what he would be doing aboard the Phoenix, but as long as it meant he was with Chloe, IF she chose to stay with him that is, then any job was more than OK ...
"You have a ship to meet if I'm not mistaken ?" Antoine said, grinning toward the chronometer.
Rampton looked in the same direction, then jumped backward, turning through one eighty degrees he ran for the doors and the nearest turbo-lift ..........
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 4, 2009 21:36:28 GMT
Harley turned. "Peter, Melanie and Tay are here for Seleya." She stepped aside, letting the two Trills in. "Please," she added, gesturing to the livingroom.
A long silence ensued, but finally Peter called back that they should join him in the livingroom. The Vulcan sat on the couch, still cradling his daughter. "I do not have long," he started, "I am still on duty."
Tay stood with his hands behind his back and bowed respectably to Peter. "Mr Horn, I wanted to apologise for well everything to you. And Seleya I am sorry that I made you ill and upset you. I have learnt my lesson and will not eat more than one ice cream in future."
Peter sat up a little straighter, patting the seat beside him. "And I owe you an apology," he added, "and I have something to show you, later. After I have spoken with your mother and sister as I require their permission to do so."
Tay looked suprised at Peters response but did not sit down. "Mr Horn may I discuss something with you in private please?"He asked just as formally. Mel shot Peter a look to convey she had not been expecting this.
Eyes widening slightly in surprise, the Vulcan nodded. "Come with me," he offered, taking the boy to Seleya's bedroom. "What can I do for you?"
"I have done a lot of reading in the last couple of days and more so this afternoon. Two vulcans were talking about something I did not understand, so I looked it up to learn, like you teach me too and well . . . . " Tay said nervously.
"I know I upset you and am troublesome or recalcitrant as you say but I beg you, do not force Seleya into an arranged marriage." He asked seriously.
The Vulcan sank down on the bed, too stunned to respond immediately. "How..." he started, looking up, then shook his head. "I.." he started again, clearly at a loss for words. "I will not," he finally answered, "I had no intention to force her into anything. Why?"
"I understand that it is Vulcan tradition and that you take such things very seriously so I have an alternative suggestion," He continued looking very worried. "Consider me. I will release her from the commitment if she does not grow up to love me and I know I do not have linerage or vulcan status but I will work very hard in the two years between now and when you have to bond her to prove to you I have some qualities worth considering. I just do not wish to see my best friend have to marry someone she barely knows."
"Tay," Peter started softly, "you do not need to prove yourself to me. Yes it is tradition, but I was not bonded, neither were my parents. I am considering the option but as you just said, I still have two years. I will speak to your mother to see what she says, but I have to discuss it with my mate too. I cannot make the decision without her support, I hope you understand?"
Then he smiled knowlingly. "Besides, you are a rascal and that will never change. Trust me, I know."
"I do not understand rascal sir but believe me I would be a good husband. She already yells at me and she can be as gross as she likes. I mean she has already vormited all over me and I still thinks shes the most brilliant friend ever. I just want her to be happy," Tay replied.
"And she will be," Peter promised, "but that is all up to her and you both are still very young. For now, be content at being friends. And a rascal is what you are, misbehaving and full of mischief." His eyes sparkled as he gazed down at the boy. "I used to be one too..."
"May I go play with Seleya now, presuming I am still allowed to be her friend?" Tay asked. "I have to make up to her for upseting both of you."
"Yes, please try to make her smile again? And I am not upset, I cannot get upset," the Vulcan responded, "nor do I get angry or happy. But as I am trying to tell you, I used to be a lot like you, when I was a child. Therefor, if you are anything like me, I know you will be all right. Go, play with Seleya now. I have to go back to the bridge." He chuckled softly. "I expect you to report there in two hours for your next step in education. Do not be late."
Tay happily returned to the lounge area, Mel immediatly cornered Peter on his return. "Is everything okay?"
"Indeed. Did you have reason to be concerned?" he asked gently. "We...talked. Melanie, I need to talk to you and your mother about something after my shift...it is important, to me. I need your...permission for something. I will explain later, now, I really must return to the bridge, before K'Nara regrets her decision in making me first officer."
"Of course," Mel answered. "It's just earlier he was talking about rights and the starfleet amendment. And hes been very quiet this afternoon. Its been a strange couple of days," Mel answered truthfully.
Peter nodded. "I find it difficult to disagree with you on that," he said calmly. "Please stay if you wish. I will speak with you in a few hours. Good day." He brushed past the Trill engineer and dashed out of his quarters.
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Post by K'nara Corval on Mar 4, 2009 22:19:41 GMT
"So you are Captain of this vessel now?" Merzan finally broke the silence between him and K'Nara speaking in Klingonese.
She nodded and replied in the same, "Dukath wished me to participate in the Starfleet/Klingon exchange programme. I am one of 3 only females."
"I never foresaw that for you," he muttered softly.
"Well, no one foresaw anything that happened in the last 7 years," K'Nara replied honestly.
He nodded. "I should not have . . . . behaved the way I did in the mine . . . "
"Do not worry, you were under alien influence," She replied softly sitting up. "
"Everything . . . its fragmented . . strange K'Nara," Merzan reached his arm out. K'Nara felt her insides wrenched as he was getting agitated. "I don't know whats real and whats memories . . . and whats what they created . . . and so tired . . ."
"I am real," she replied taking his hand. "And I am going to help you get back to the strong warrior you are."
"A warrior worthy of the name Corval," he said lacing his fingers with hers. K'Nara found herself smiling.
"You always were worthy, now sleep. When you awaken I will take you on a tour of my vessel," she grinned. Merzan closed his eyes and soon drifted away. K'Nara gently stroked his cheek before returning to her bio bed.
=^=Corval to Wolf. Sharon please report to me in Sickbay. There is a matter I wish to discuss with you=^=
Tag <Sharon>
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Post by Dr. Valeia Roquel Mercy on Mar 5, 2009 6:08:17 GMT
"I fear Naois has not spoken to me about a transfer to the Dark Phoenix, pending or otherwise," Peter replied, much to her further confusion. It seemed very unlike her husband to do something like without telling her or anyone else about it. He wasn’t exactly a ‘surprise’ kind of guy, not to mention the fact that much of the time she could literally read his thoughts, or at least his emotions. That meant K’Nara had ‘suggested’ it, and as much as she wanted him here with her, she didn’t want it at the expense of his happiness. She’d sooner leave the Phoenix than see him unhappy, and if he needed to be on Resurrection to be happy, that’s where he’d be.
"Another thing doctor,” Commander Horn continued, snapping her out of her own thoughts. “Vulcans do not daydream." As Peter began to relay the memory he had recalled, it served as a successful distraction to her current predicament, as she smiled and eventually even laughed at his story of a very young, very naughty Peter Horn. She’d never pictured the put-together security chief as a troublemaker. "It was disturbing. I had not thought about the event in years, and it was hardly a solitary event. It was an almost weekly occurrence, until I turned approximately ten, and the security chief had enough. I only wonder why the memories resurface now and not before,” he pondered aloud as he remained still to facilitate the scanning.
“Well perhaps it has something to do with Tay,” Valeia suggested as she watched the images of his brain appear and shift on her screen. “The situation that you are describing sounds very similar to what is currently going on between you and him. Perhaps what’s going on now are bringing those memories closer to the surface.”
Once the scans had completed, Valeia retracted the hemisphere and gave the results a cursory glance. “I’m not seeing anything abnormal here, Commander. It all looks clear. I know you said Vulcans don’t daydream, but you are half human, and a quarter Romulan, not to mention your system of nanites. This may just be a way for your brain to deal with what humans call deja-vu. However, this event has clearly bothered you, so again, I’d recommend speaking to Naois about it. He may be able to help you from a psychological standpoint, but medically, you are fine.”
As Peter collected his daughter, still clearly disoriented and confused, Valeia was beginning to grow worried about his erratic emotions and took a closer look at the scans. No matter how carefully she looked at them, there was nothing physically or neurologically wrong with him. Shaking her head, the doctor retreated to her office to file the scans into his records and write up a report to add to his still growing file.
She was nearly done when her door slid open and Naois entered. Smiling happily at him and placing the padd back on her desk, Valeia stood and took him by the hand. “Come on; let’s go home. We were supposed to take it easy today and not stay for too long, so I think it’s about time we left,” she suggested, somewhat torn between the discussion they needed to have and just enjoying being together, but she decided to play their evening by ear and follow her husband’s lead, for once.
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Post by Sharon Wolf on Mar 6, 2009 3:40:53 GMT
Sharon was on the bridge as they were sitting with the klingon sjips then Commander Horn ordered them to return to the starbase. She set the coordinates and the ship jumped to warp. Sharon got up and a ensig took her place, she went over to ops, as a security officer approached.
"Lieutenant Wolf?" He asked.
"Just call me Sharon, what can I do for you?"
"W@e found where the missing stuff had been going, a couple of kids wanted some things for class and didn't bother to ask anyone, their parents have been infomed, no charges have been assesed." He said handing over a padd.
Sharon gave the padd a cursory glance and nodded. "Thank you Ensign."
He nodded and left, SAharon went back to work. After awhile she sgtretched then her commbadge chirped.
=^=Corval to Wolf. Sharon please report to me in Sickbay. There is a matter I wish to discuss with you=^=
=^= "On my way Captain." Sharon said.
Sharon was curious as to why she wanted to see her, she left the bridge and headed to the lift, she took it to sickbay. She entered a nurse approached.
"Captain Corval sent for me, I wont stay long." Sharon said.
The nurse pointed her to one of the biobeds, she walked over and waited for K'nara to acknowledge her.
<K'nara>
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 6, 2009 21:15:19 GMT
A few hours later, Peter had come off duty and spent some time with his family, enjoying an elaborate home cooked dinner and even dozed on the couch for a few minutes. Harley had nudged him awake, a huge grin on her face, while cradling their baby son to her breast. Peter smiled in return, noting once more how beautiful his wife was, and how lucky he counted himself to be to have found her and be found worthy of her.
He realised, not for the first time, that without her he would've died in the throes of pon farr, and that he owed everything to her. Where was he, if not for her? Many found Peter calculating and cold, but those who knew him well, knew he actually doted on his wife - in the privacy of their quarters of course - and that he cared a great deal for his family.
Only too vivid in his mind was the hunt for the person who had kidnapped his daughters, only to get a shot at hurting him, and the emotional instability it had caused him, especially after Harley had been badly hurt. He was ready to kill then, and it was fortunate that people had been able to halt his hand, or he would've killed without hesitation.
Quietly, he rose from the couch, tousled the baby's hair, then kissed Harley on her cheek. "There is something I need to attend to," he stated calmly, "I promise it will not take too long. I will be with Melanie and her family."
Harley nodded in understanding. "What were you dreaming about this time?"
Peter gave her an embarassed smirk. "Sabotaging the turbolift. Graeme Janeway was very ready to toss me out of an airlock. Only Johnathan Hookway's intervention saved me from that fate. I spent a week confined to my quarters, all my toys and books taken away. My mother was very angry with me, as she was the one who had to repair the damage I had created. In a fit of rage, she unleashed her talents upon me, I could not think straight for a week and there was nothing Doctor Storey could do for me, but try to ease my headaches. My mother would not allow for further treatment than that...to teach me a lesson."
"And did you?"
The Vulcan shook his head, smiling ruefully. "Not until I was ten years old." He kissed her again. "Tundra will watch over you and the children." He patted his loyal pet on the head, stepping back as the creature reared high on her hind legs, the front paws resting on Peter's shoulders as she licked his face. "Ew."
Still laughing, Peter ducked out of their quarters and seconds later stood before Melanie and Mrs Hannez. "Melanie, Mrs Hannez, there is something I need to discuss with you." He paused as he concentrated on finding the right words, stepping inside when he was invited in. "It concerns Tay," he started carefully, "and my own trouble concentrating. You see, I have been plagued by memories of my own youth, and I believe it may be useful for Tay to witness them."
The Vulcan hesitated, clearly uncomfortable. "I would like your permission for a mind-meld with Tay, so he can perceive what his own troublesome actions have for effect on the adults around him." He paused again. "You see...not many know this, but I was such a troubled youth, when I was seven years old. And what I pulled, was far far worse than what Tay does. It may also make him understand why I am so hard on him."
Again, he hesitated. "Tay is not the only one who is growing up without a father. My own father was missing in action for most of my life. In fact, to day I still do not know where he is. My mother knows he lives, but we do not know where, or in what condition."
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Post by K'nara Corval on Mar 6, 2009 21:23:37 GMT
"Lieutenant," K'Nara acknowledged Sharon Wolf. "I am making some staffing changes onboard the phoenix and feel the need to inform you that I think during the times you have taken over the operations position in Mr Dexters absence, you have done a very good job. I was wondering if you might like to try that position permantly as my new chief of operations?"
"I do not expect you to make a decision right this minute. But please think about it and do not worry, if you are not interested your current position will be kept open for you," K'Nara finished.
Tag <Sharon>
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Post by Mel D'BrooNi on Mar 6, 2009 22:37:47 GMT
Mel sat down absolutely stunned at what Peter had just said. Lorena was looking at him confused. "I'm sorry Mr Horn. I have spent the majority of my life on Trill and will freely admit you are one of very few Vulcan’s I have had the pleasure of meeting. I have not had the opportunity to converse with or study your people culture as my daughter has studying at Starfleet’s academy and working onboard star ships. I do not understand what you are referring too when you say you wish to mind meld with my son," the elder Trill told him.
The Vulcan folded his hands behind his back, struggling to keep his face in a neutral expression. "I wish to show Tay my personal experiences on being a troublesome child, directly from my mind ma'am," he explained politely. "A mind meld is a technique mastered by most Vulcans, which enables us to tranfer our thoughts from ourselves to another person, or experiences the thoughts of another person for ourselves. It is not without danger, but I promise you that I am highly skilled. Melanie can vouch for my capabilities."
"Yes I can vouch for Peters abilities mum but I don't like it," Melanie stated firmly. "Tays 7, he's hardly public enemy number one on this ship and what you view as troublesome Peter," She addressed him softly, "Part of that is your inexperience dealing with kids and you not being able to perceive things in the way he does. You push and he goes further away. No amount of seeing what trouble you got into in the past is going to change that."
"Perhaps not, but it may give him some insight into my actions," Peter argued mildly, "it is something I feel I must share with him. I can see that you yourself have trouble believing what a menace I was when I was seven years old. The stories my mother could tell you....they may make your skin crawl." He smiled softly. "Or turn you against me. Even my godfather could tell you things even my mother does not know, or perhaps my mother's captain back then." He laughed. "Oh the stories they would tell." Then his smile was gone just like that. "Honestly, I do strongly believe it may help, or I would not even consider the danger. And the danger is more to myself, than to Tay."
"Mr Horn," Lorena said gently. "All children are troublesome at one time or another. It is a natural stage of growing up. He will grow out of it, you will see. Tay is just growing up."
"Mum, Tay is growing up fast," Melanie informed her mother. "Very fast, which brings me to another issue I think we really ought to talk about," Mel looked at Peter. "That being he offered himself to bond with your daughter today."
"He told you?" the Vulcan asked, visibly taken aback, "I had not expected him to tell anyone, I would not have. I believed the matter was confidential; otherwise I would have brought it up with you immediately. Yes, he offered himself, after reading about Vulcan history and the bonding of children at the age of seven. Please bear in mind a child can only be bonded after the successful passing of the Kahswan, the survival test." He paused, considering the idea. "I admit I have been exploring the possibility of bonding my daughter, as is tradition, even though neither my mother, nor myself were bonded during childhood. It is a father's duty to find the best possible mate for his children, and ensure they have someone when they go through pon farr." Now, he fell silent and it was clear he did not wish to discuss that particular issue.
Lorena looked even more confused. Mel suggested she sit down and turned to Peter again. "I know Tay and I sometimes argue but we are very close. Yes he told me. I do not like the sound of a survival test either," Mel said looking at her mother. "But it is his life at the end of the day." Lorena nodded before adding. "I think, you need to be discussing the idea of a mind meld with Tay not us."
"As a non-Vulcan, Tay is not required to pass that test," Peter explained, "I, as Vulcan, had to pass it. My daughter may be required to attempt it as well. It is not without danger, but it is custom among my people." He nodded in agreement. "Yes, I do. But I did not wish to go by you, who are his mother and sister." He held out a tricorder to them. "Should he consent, I will not perform it without being monitored. Where may I find Tay?"
"He's sleeping," Mel said defensively. "He was up for 2 days pretty much after well . . the ice cream incident. Look Peter leave it a few days please," she pleaded clearly not happy about the idea.
"That is up to Tay," Peter replied, though knowing that this was an argument he would lose.
Mel gave Peter a look of pure disappointment, and Peter felt a wave of emotion from her. Melanie clearly felt like he was forcing the issue, an issue she was not comfortable with. "I have to get back to Ian." She muttered leaving abruptly. Lorena watched her daughter leave, her face thoughtful.
"You may speak to him when he has rested," Lorena said finally. "I'm not going to wake him now, not if he has not slept properly for 2 days. I’m sure as a parent, you can understand that."
Peter nodded, his eyes remaining on the retreating younger Trill female. "I understand," he answered, "however I stand by my request. Someone must monitor if I am to do this, should Tay consent. I do hope you understand this is important to me? To show Tay why I deal with him the way I have done? I feel he looks up to me; therefore he too needs to learn that I am fallible."
"That I cannot do," Lorena said. "I do not understand your science, and I do not think you will convince my daughter to help you with it. You will need to find someone."
"As you wish," Peter replied flatly, "I am certain the chief medical officer will assist, otherwise I will consult the counselor. He may find the subject interesting to study as well, if I know him well enough." He bowed
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 7, 2009 20:28:08 GMT
“Come on; let’s go home. We were supposed to take it easy today and not stay for too long, so I think it’s about time we left,”
Naois nodded, feeling the warmth of his wife's skin against his own when she held his hand. "Agreed," he answered carefully, then glanced back over his shoulder. "What was wrong with commander Horn?" he asked quietly, "he appeared confused, I could sense it, but he quickly hid his feelings from me."
He sighed in mild annoyance. "It does not help that his shielding is better than mine, and his telepathic skills certainly surpass mine by far."
Together they walked home, the slightly taller Vulcan wrapping an arm around the Betazoid's shoulders. "So...now we are home, what did you have in mind for relaxation?" he asked gently, pulling his uniform shirt over his head, tossing it onto one of the seats. He ran both hands through his hair, ruffling it, before sinking down on the couch to pull off his boots and socks.
"Something to drink first, then dinner?" he continued, a mischievous smile playing around his lips, "or did you have any other particular order of events in mind?" He was hungry, he had to admit to himself, in more ways than one. At least the heat of pon farr was gone, and his mood was settling itself back to its usual proportions, for which he was glad.
The Vulcan leaned back on the couch, resting both arms on the backrest, while gazing up at his wife, appreciating her figure from his position. "So, are you going to tell me why Peter came to see you?" he asked again.
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Post by Dr. Valeia Roquel Mercy on Mar 9, 2009 3:06:46 GMT
"Agreed," Naois replied but his attention seemed to be on Peter, who’d left before them. "What was wrong with Commander Horn? He appeared confused; I could sense it, but he quickly hid his feelings from me. It does not help that his shielding is better than mine, and his telepathic skills certainly surpass mine by far,” he added in a mildly irritable and slightly annoyed manner, which surprised Valeia somewhat.
“Well he has his Borg technology which amplifies his telepathic abilities,” Valeia reminded him gently, trying instinctually to help soothe him. “And you’re shielding is stronger than you think. After all, you do manage to keep me in the dark every once in awhile, and that takes a lot of work, especially when I’m trying,” she teased.
That seemed to appease him, as he said nothing more on the subject and wrapped his arm around her shoulder as they walked back towards their quarters. She was still torn between wanting to know what was going on with his career and being too distracted to care. Even though the Pon Farr had calmed down quite a bit, Valeia still wasn’t quite feeling herself...or maybe there wasn’t really much of a difference.
"So...now we are home, what did you have in mind for relaxation?" he asked while tossing his jacket and shirt into a chair, messing up his hair, and beginning to pull off his boots and socks, which raised both her eyebrows as he was usually much more organized than that...if she didn’t know better, it almost seemed like he was actually trying to seduce her or something, not that he really needed to...well ever.
“I don’t know...” she replied casually, deciding to let him show what he was up to on his own, tossing her own jacket on top of his and kicking off her boots as well.
"Something to drink first, then dinner?" he suggested, before a grin tugged at the corners of his lips. “Or did you have any other particular order of events in mind?"
A grin lighting up her own face, Valeia was delighted that he actually was trying to attract her on purpose. It was nice to be the pursued for a change. “I hadn’t exactly planned on anything,” she replied, horribly tempted to take advantage of his mood and play coy. Hard-to-get wasn’t exactly in her usual vocabulary, but it sounded fun.
As Naois eyed her from across the room, leaning back with his hands behind his head and looking her up and down like some sort of predator, Valeia felt like maybe this was working out perfectly, at least until he spoke. “So, are you going to tell me why Peter came to see you?" he asked again and quite effectively killed the mood.
Fighting back a groan, Valeia decided that perhaps the reason she’d never played that particular game was because she wasn’t very good at it. Resisting the urge to glare at him for being dense, the doctor instead sunk into a chair across from the couch and decided if he wasn’t going to play, she was going to find out what was going on with him. “Well technically, I shouldn’t tell you because of doctor-patient confidentiality, but my suggestion was for him to talk to you next, so I guess you’ll be finding out soon enough anyway. He was having a problem with daydreaming, and it was bothering him as he says Vulcans don’t daydream, so I ran a few scans to clear him from any physical or neurological causes, but I found nothing wrong. So I’d suggested that he speak with you since it was still bothering him so much.”
“Speaking of you and counseling,” the doctor continued, not giving him a chance to reply before she brought up what she really wanted to talk about, “what was that about K’Nara asking you to transfer to the Phoenix? Does she know something I don’t or did she just bring that up out of the blue? Because I thought that you loved your job on Resurrection, and that’s why we were still doing separate assignments until I fulfilled my shipboard requirement and then we would talk about a change.”
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Post by Sharon Wolf on Mar 9, 2009 13:32:28 GMT
"Lieutenant," K'Nara acknowledged Sharon Wolf. "I am making some staffing changes onboard the phoenix and feel the need to inform you that I think during the times you have taken over the operations position in Mr Dexters absence, you have done a very good job. I was wondering if you might like to try that position permanently as my new chief of operations?"
Sharon looked at her, she could not believe what the Captain was asking her, she had been doing Quinn's job since he disappeared and her own.
"I do not expect you to make a decision right this minute. But please think about it and do not worry, if you are not interested your current position will be kept open for you," K'Nara finished.
"Yyyes, would love to take the position,I'm sorry that Quinn left, he was my friend but leaving was the last thing I expected from him. but yes I would love to be your chief of Operations." Sharon stated smiling.
<K'nara>
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 9, 2009 21:00:30 GMT
Naois remained silent for a long while, suppressing a shiver as cool air rushed past his bare skin. "K'Nara wishes me to transfer to the Phoenix," he acknowledged, "and yes I do find my position at the academy satisfactory." Loving a job would just not enter his vocabulary, no matter how much of him was Human.
He sensed a change in the mood and blinked, once. He shook his head from side to side, as if trying to clear his senses. "What did just happen?" he asked, desperately wanting to change the subject, as his transfer was supposed to be and would remain so for now, a surprise.
The Vulcan rose to his feet, feeling the odd sensation of the carpet tickling the soles of his feet and he cringed ever so slightly. Normally, he didn't pad around barefeet in his quarters, let alone semi-dressed. Walking up to Valeia, he wrapped his arms around her. "I killed the mood, did I not," he whispered at her, pulling her closer.
Smiling impishly, he stepped away from her. "I am going to take a shower," he informed her, "and then I shall prepare dinner, and then..." He trailed off, leaving the rest up to her imagination.
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Post by Dr. Valeia Roquel Mercy on Mar 9, 2009 22:35:29 GMT
"K'Nara wishes me to transfer to the Phoenix, and yes I do find my position at the academy satisfactory," he replied, and left it at that, not really giving her an answer. Valeia was beginning to grow frustrated and about to push him for more information when he frowned slightly. "What just happened?" he asked, appearing confused.
Not really wanting to explain to him that she’d thought he was hitting on her, and that mentioning Peter had ruined it, Valeia didn’t reply right away. It wasn’t exactly an easy subject to bring up with your husband…that he was completely clueless and missing her signals, and not just now. Trying to figure out what she could say that wouldn’t hurt his feelings, she was relieved when he stood up and gave her a hug. “I killed the mood, did I not?" he whispered softly in her ear, pulling her closer.
A smile slowly spreading across her face, Valeia leaned back into his embrace. “Well, yes, but it’s starting to come back now...” she teased, but just when she was about to kiss him, he stepped away, confusing her again.
“I am going to take a shower, and then I shall prepare dinner, and then..." he was grinning mischievously but also moving away from her, and she couldn’t tell if he was hinting at her to follow him, especially since he’d laid out such a detailed plan, so it didn’t really make sense...
Finally deciding to just give up on trying to figure out what in the world Naois was thinking, Valeia slumped back into the chair and sighed heavily. One of these days, she knew that she was going to have to explain romance to him...or at least try to, but that sort of seemed like cheating somehow. The Betazoid didn’t know why, but that’s how it felt. Maybe it was the way she had seen Heather play her games with men, or it was just a female thing, she didn’t know, but somehow explaining to him that he was supposed to be romantic didn’t seem right. It was something that they were supposed to figure out on their own, or at least try, but he didn’t even seem to realize there was something he was missing. Unfortunately, she didn’t see even a glimmer of hope that he would figure it out on his own, so that meant eventually talking about it, something she was dreading since she didn’t want him to feel bad.
Moving to the replicator, she debated making them supper, but since he had said he was going to, again, she wasn’t sure what to do. At least he had been fairly clear about where the evening would end up…it was just a matter of waiting for him to get there. Deciding that she should just be happy with that for now, Valeia instead replicated a cup of coffee and figured she’d take a shower while he cooked dinner like he said, and then hope that he really was going somewhere with his hinting...
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Post by Ian Brooks on Mar 9, 2009 22:52:57 GMT
"Honey," Ian called as he heard Mel return from her mothers, "My friend Cliffs on ressurection for a couple of weeks and I thought we could go to dinner tonight."
"Fine," Mel snapped at him.
Ian put his PADD down, and watched her pretty much stalk into the kitchen area and start going through cupboards. He moved to his feet. "Mel?"he questioned as she pulled a bottle of red liquid out and grab a glass from the side.
"Mind meld," she finally spoke, pouring a liberal measure of what Ian's nose was now identifing as potent liquid into the glass. "Tay and him have a fight over ice cream and now he thinks its a good idea to mindmeld. Forgets that Tay's just a boy and that he's even been ordered not to do that in the past, oh no, he calls my mother and me together to ask to mindmeld," she seethed angrily raising the glass to her lips. Ian put his hand over it and pushed it back down.
She shot him a really annoyed look. "Oh yeah I'm pregnant."
Ian slid the glass to the other end of the counter then took her hand in what he hoped was a calming manner.
"It can be dangerous and what does he think hes going to do? Show him some memories and Tay will miracously behave just the way he wants him too?" She pulled her hand out of his and started pacing in frustration. "Is that the logical way of handling kids?"
Ian had been working on formulating a response but evidently it was a rhetorical question as she continued talking fast.
"The only thing that will make Tay behave is Tay," she hissed. "He needs to realise that if he continues pushing over everything, even little things like . . . . ice cream Ian, ice cream. He over ate ice cream . . . well its only going to make Tay dig his heels in and push back."
"Did you try explain that to peter?" Ian dared ask as she paused for breath.
"I mentioned it briefly but theres no point, he's in stubborn mode and I asked him to leave it a few days and he completely blew me off" she snapped again. " And Mum already said its Tay's decision. Which yeah on the one side okay thats how it should be, but hes not exactly thinking things through when he makes decisions is he? He asked to be bonded to Seleya today and that involves a survival test, did he consider that? I mean he's Trill. We don't bring our kids up to fight like vulcans and Klingons. He wouldn't last two seconds in a vulcan survival test. Some days he struggles buttoning up shirts,"
Ian really tryed his best not to laugh but failed.
"Its not funny," Mel said seriously.
"No your quite right darling," Ian said regaining his composure.
"You know what?" she carried on ranting. Ian was pretty sure she had not had a shot today now. "They are both as bad as each other and I'm up to here," She pointed to her head, "With the both of them. With everyone. I'm having a bath," she insisted.
Ian watched her go, drank the red liquid and decided it was safer just him and Cliff having dinner
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Mike Rampton
USS Dark Phoenix
Commander
It's gonna be a 'long' flight !
Posts: 48
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Post by Mike Rampton on Mar 10, 2009 11:10:03 GMT
Mike made arrivals with minutes to spare ..
The large concourse was seemingly crammed to capacity with people from all races. Some coming to the Star base, others departing. Checking that the USS Emily Rose had docked, he moved to the observation windows, massive in themselves, they gave a panoramic view of the internal docking area. Mike could see the Emily Rose and edged nervously toward the passageway connecting her to Resurrection.
Civilians, Officers, Families, began to emerge. He shifted his weight from one foot to the next, trying hard not to look like some schoolboy brought up before the Headmaster. Then he saw Kelly ...
She hadn't changed in the ten years since he'd seen her last. With her, holding onto her hand was a young girl. Rampton watched the two as they came down the ramp, Kelly had been scanning the crowd and suddenly spotted him. She waved, looking down to say something to her companion. The girl looked in the direction indicated and smiled, giving a small wave.
Kelly threw her arms round Rampton squeezing hard for many seconds before releasing her hold.
"It's SO good to see you again Mikey." she said, kissing him on the cheek, then stepped back, placing an arm almost protectively around the girls' shoulder, "Mike .. This is Chloe .. Chloe .. This is Mike, he's your Father ..."
"Hello Chloe." Rampton said, then watched the girls face as she took him in. Almost as if deciding on just 'how' to treat this stranger. It took her a long time. Long enough that both Kelly and Mike himself wondered if they should repeat the statement. but then Chloe seemed to make up her mind.
She stepped forward, Mike leaning down to be at eye-level with her. She looked deep into his eye's for a few seconds, then placed her arms around his neck. He put his arms round her waist, holding her to him. Kelly watched them, a tear forming, then Mike frowned, he could feel Chloe moving, no, not moving, sobbing .. He placed a hand tenderly on the back of her head, stroking her hair gently.
"It's going to be OK Chloe .. I promise." he whispered into her ear.
Chloe nodded, her grip never easing for a second, but her sobbing subsided slowly, until she felt she could step back just enough to see his face. She kissed him tenderly on the cheek, then wiping a tear from her face, she smiled up at Kelly then turned back to Mike.
"I know it is Dad." she said quietly, kissing his ear before giving him another hug. Then she held out one arm to include Kelly.
The three held tightly to each other for long long moments, before Kelly stepped back.
"Right ..." Kelly said smiling, "I think we should get out of the way of everyone. I don't know about you two, but I'm famished ! ... Where can us girls freshen up and get something to eat ?"
It was the 'ice-breaker' they needed and Chloe picked up her bag from where it had been dropped earlier. She smiled up at Mike before taking his hand. Squeezing it for a second, in a gesture of someone much older, then eased her grip slightly before moving forward.
"Is this where we are going to be living Mi ... Dad ?" she asked, eye's trying to take in everything at once.
Kelly shrugged, it was always a mystery how children could 'adapt' to new situations. Both adults knew that there would be a time when Chloe and Mike would sit down and talk about Rachael, but for the moment, the two needed time to bond, and in her eye's it seemed to be going well.
"Well ..." Rampton said, glancing at Kelly, who nodded her approval for him to tell her his news, "We were going to be staying here, but I've received orders assigning me to a Star ship. How do you feel about that ? he finished, a nervous flutter beginning to make itself known deep in his stomach.
Chloe almost seemed to shrug at this piece of news, then, deciding her belly came first, filed the information and looked up at Rampton.
"You promised me everything will be OK ..." she said, looking at him seriously, he nodded, "Then I know it will. I like Star ship's I was on one bef ....."
She went quiet for a second before continuing.
"..... Before Mum's accident." Both Kelly and Mike remained silent as Chloe looked like she had more to say, and evidently, her Mum was something she would want to talk about later too, but for the moment, "So .. Does this Star base sell burgers ?" she finished rubbing her tummy in mock hunger.
"Yes .. That way." Mike said, heading in the direction he indicated as Chloe began to pull him and Kelly along in her wake. Kelly leaned toward him and kissed him on the cheek then smiled. For the first time in days, Mike began to relax ..........
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 10, 2009 12:48:27 GMT
After his talk with Lorena, Peter didn't feel courageous enough to go and face Melanie. She had seemed angry enough to him and he had no wish to call her full wrath upon himself, especially since she was pregnant and he had no additional wish to hurt her in any way. Yet, he couldn't shake the feeling that he had hurt her in some way, even though he didn't understand.
Sighing, he walked back to the turbolift and got off on the bridge. Harley would not expect him home for a few hours as she knew he was on duty. "Captain Mercy, could you meet me for breakfast tomorrow morning?" he called, "there is something I wish to discuss with you. I would prefer if Doctor Mercy were present as well, if possible."
"Mercy here, we will meet you at 0800 in the mess hall commander," came the immediate response.
"Thank you captain." The Vulcan signed off then returned to gazing at the main viewscreen. It wouldn't be long before they were docking, and Resurrection was growing steadily in size on the screen.
Three hours later, Docking Control hailed them, directing them to their berth. "Standing down operations," Peter announced, "control is yours starbase. Dark Phoenix out." The station would now take over docking and he felt the shudders as moorings were attached to the ship.
"Attention all crew. We are now docked at Resurrection, please see to your department heads for rotation on shoreleave." Peter sank back down in the command chair, knowing he wouldn't be going anywhere just yet. He still had four hours of shift to sit through, and he would do just that. He tapped his combadge again. "Lieutenant Brooks, status of security department?" he queried, knowing that until a replacement chief as assigned, Brooks was in essence in command of the department. "I assume you will want to take Melanie to the station," he continued, "I can oversee any problems until you and/or my replacement arrive back aboard ship."
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Mike Rampton
USS Dark Phoenix
Commander
It's gonna be a 'long' flight !
Posts: 48
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Post by Mike Rampton on Mar 10, 2009 14:56:33 GMT
With receiving orders to report to the Dark Phoenix, Mike hadn't bothered to unpack when he had moved into family quarters on the 'base .. After eating at an Earth-style diner, the three of them had made their way back to the dock to watch the Dark Phoenix arrive, before heading to their temporary lodgings.
He had shown Kelly and Chloe their rooms and had gone to his own bedroom to change .. Sitting on the bed, he wondered how the two thought things were going. He hoped it was well.
They had sat for hours chatting about almost every subject thinkable, and then some more. checking the chronometer, Mike noticed just how late it was. He was due to report to the Phoenix at ten hundred hours, but didn't want to stop his Daughter talking. he was learning more about her every second.
Kelly must have got the impression he was hinting at the late hour, because she suddenly yawned, stretching cat-like before getting up.
"Well I don't know about you two, but I'm shattered ... Think I'll turn in." she said.
Chloe looked at her, a hint of pleading in her eyes.
"Can I stay up a little longer pleeeeese." she said, exaggerating the 'please' ..
"Well that's up to your Dad now." Kelly said smiling, but somehow knowing the ten year old was going to get her own way, "Just not TOO late, you have to be up early remember."
"Can I Daddy .. Five minutes .. Promise." Chloe said from the chair opposite, obviously playing the 'lost child' vote.
"Five minutes then." Rampton said, knowing he had 'buckled' too quickly, but loved it all the same, "Go get ready for bed with Kelly then come back OK."
"OK !" she said, jumping out of the chair and ran to her room, closely followed by a sighing Kelly.
He could hear the two laughing as he cleared the cups and plates they had used while chatting, before sitting back on the settee. Then suddenly she was back. She sat down next to him, resting her head on his chest. Mike shuffled down a little so she was more comfy, placing an arm round her as she relaxed.
The two talked for some time, Mike constantly glancing at the time, but he could tell Chloe was getting tired. Out of the blue she made a comment.
"Mummy loved you you know."
"I know she did Sweetheart." Mike said, kissing the top of her head, "I loved her too."
"Good." Chloe said quietly, "I think I'll love you too then." she finished, the last words almost inaudible.
Rampton sensed her breathing slow, and looking down could see his Daughter was fast asleep. Smiling, he edged from beneath her and picked her up. Walking to her room he placed her on the bed before pulling the quilt up over her. With a gentle kiss on her forehead, he went back to the main room. Requesting the lights dim to five percent, he went to his room, and happily fell into his deepest sleep for as long as he could remember ....
~~~~~~~~~~
Next morning, Chloe woke to find Kelly and her Father chatting over breakfast.
"Morning." she said brightly, kissing her Father then Kelly, him first for the first time, he noticed inwardly.
"You sleep well ?" Kelly asked.
"Great." Chloe replied, ordering toast and orange juice from the replicator, "Can we go see the ship today ?"
"Yes. I need to report in anyway." Mike said, So we'll go after breakfast OK ?"
"Okey dokey." she replied breezily.
~~~~~~~~~~
An hour later the two of them were stood at the passage leading to the Dark Phoenix. Kelly had said she needed to sort a few things out and had left them to report together.
"Commander Rampton." he said to the base Security Officer at the foot of the ramp, "I'm to report to Captain Corval." he said, handing the woman the PADD he'd been given.
"The Captain isn't aboard at the moment Commander, neither is the Exec' I suggest you report to Captain Mercy in Medical." she said, handing the orders back.
Five minutes later they were in Sick-bay.
"Captain Mercy ?" he asked, noticing a man with his back to them.
"Yes." Naois said turning, a broad grin forming as he saw his Senior Flight Instructor.
"Commander Rampton reporting for duty as Chief Tactical and Security Officer. This is my Daughter Chloe."
< tag : Naois >
After the meeting with Naois, they found their quarters, then once satisfied, headed back to the Star base to meet up with Kelly ... It was lunch time Chloe had discretely pointed out ..........
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Mike Rampton
USS Dark Phoenix
Commander
It's gonna be a 'long' flight !
Posts: 48
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Post by Mike Rampton on Mar 10, 2009 19:56:17 GMT
Mike and Chloe headed toward the cafeteria where they had arranged to meet Kelly..
As soon as they spotted her at a window table Chloe ran toward her. She reached the cafe well before Rampton, and was sat looking through the menu by the time he got there.
"Hi Mikey." Kelly said, kissing him on the cheek. Chloe giggled.
"You 'know' I hate you calling me Mikey Kelly. I'm not a student anymore." he said, feigning hurt.
"Awww diddums." Kelly said, making Chloe burst into a fit of laughter.
Sighing, he gave up and grabbed a menu.
They had been talking during the meal when he noticed that Kelly had gone quiet. He waited for a lull in Chloe's narration then asked if everything was alright .. Kelly hesitated for a second or two, then taking Chloe's hand, spoke.
"I've had a Comm from Captain Derby on the Endeavor ..." she began, Mike instantly knowing what was coming, "He's eager for me to get back to continue the research."
Mike could see Chloe's face working her way through the statement.
"When ?" he asked quietly.
"The Emily Rose is leaving for the T'Santor sector departing at zero eight hundred tomorrow ......"
"Tomorrow." Chloe suddenly said, "But I thought you were coming on the Phoenix with us !"
It dawned on Mike that no-one had explained to Chloe that she was staying with Mike, and not Mike and Kelly. She obviously thought the three of them would be staying together from here on in. Rampton was at a complete loss as to what to say next. he could see his Daughters eyes beginning to full with tears. He felt totally helpless ..
"You knew I was going to have to get back to the Endeavor Chloe." Kelly began, but the ten year old wasn't listening.
She thrust her chair back, tipping it to the floor in her haste to get away from the table. Kelly began to rise, but Mike held out his hand.
"I'll go." he said, knowing he would have to face this kind of situation at some point, he got up, lifting the chair Chloe had toppled, then headed out of the door. He could see his Daughter. She was leaning against one of the large view-ports, watching a myriad of vessels as they orbited or approached the Star base. But he had a feeling she wasn't actually watching the ships. He stood behind her, listening to her crying, then knelt down, turning her round by the shoulders. She turned slowly, then slammed into his chest crying uncontrollably. Silent, he allowed her to cry, shaking and squeezing so tight he wondered how she had the strength .. Finally, the crying ceased, replaced by sobs of grief. First this ten year old lost her Mother, and now she was about to loose her what, replacement.
"Chloe ....." Mike began, "You know that if it was at all possible, that Kelly would stay here with you ... You know that." this young girl was having such a profound effect on him it was unbelievable, he was close to tears himself but needed to stay strong for her sake, at least for now.
" Chloe ?" he prompted.
"Ye ... Ye ... Yes." Chloe said through the sobbing, "I ... I know she has to go ba ... Back ... I just thought she wou ... Would stay a little longer."
"Well I'm sure she's as upset as you about having to leave so soon sweetheart." he said, edging her away far enough to be able to wipe the tears falling freely down her cheeks, "How about we go back and have Ice cream, make Kelly know how much you will miss her ?"
Chloe's sobbing began to subside, eventually ceasing. She wiped her face, making sure the tear were gone completely, then nodded .. She whispered something Mike couldn't quite hear, took his hand and walked back to the cafeteria.
It was plain that Kelly had been doing her share of crying, and had attempted to cover it up, but Mike could see the redness around her eyes as they neared the table.
Pulling out Chloe's chair in a formal gesture, Mike spoke.
"Chloe thinks we should have ice cream ... Any particular flavor you prefer ?"
Kelly smiled, then took Chloe's hand.
"Mint and chocolate chip with wafers."
"Told you." Chloe said. a genuine grin appearing on her face ..........
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 10, 2009 20:49:15 GMT
Naois smiled as he recognised his old friend. "Welcome aboard commander." He arched an eyebrow at the mention of a daughter. "A daughter?" he queried, as Rampton handed him two seperate PADDs. He looked down at the girl, then back up at Rampton, the relation unmistakeable. "Report in to Captain Corval as soon as your first shift on the bridge commences," he then ordered.
He realised he was soon going to be late for his appointment with Commander Horn. "Valeia, are you ready?" he called to the CMO's office, "I will go on ahead, join me as soon as possible."
He headed out for the mess hall, his smile brightening as he read his transfer orders. By the time he reached Peter's table though, his face was once more composed. "You wished to speak to me?" he enquired politely, while taking his seat.
Peter nodded quietly. "Yes. I assume Valeia told you about my dream?" At the other man's nod, Peter continued, "I have had two, so far. Both while I was supposed to be quite awake. I know I have to show them to the young Trill boy, I just know I have to. Why else would I be dreaming, when normally I do not?"
Naois shook his head. "I do not know Peter," he answered honestly, "how did you intend to show the boy?"
"I requested permission for a mind meld, with the boy's mother. Naturally, Melanie objected straight away, and left in an angry mood almost immediately, when I talked to the mother about it."
"And you are aware of the dangers? Have you considered how Melanie may feel?"
"Irrelevant," Peter replied, "I have to show him, somehow. I have to make him understand, and I have to understand."
Naois sat back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest as he appeared deep in thought for a moment. "You will have to talk to Melanie, before you alienate her. Are you certain this all is for Tay's benefit?"
Peter shook his head. "I am not certain of anything right now. I will need to talk to the boy. I know it is dangerous, and if he so much as hesitates, I will not pursue it. But he must be shown what effect he has on adults. And by doing that, I must show him my own experiences."
Naois nodded. "You may wish to reconsider," he pointed out, "you are forbidden to perform a mind meld, without express permission from the captain, or without the dire need to save a life if a mind meld with aid in that. I cannot approve of your suggestion, and I doubt Valeia will."
He slid a PADD across the table. "While we are sitting here, my transfer orders. I am now officially ship's counselor."
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Post by Marcus Brahms on Mar 10, 2009 22:51:31 GMT
Four hundred meters away, Admiral Marcus Brahms was undergoing his final, for this week at least, medical examination ...
He had been free from his 'mental' attacks for months now, and Star fleet Command needed him to return to duty ..... He was perfectly at ease with the fact that the Dark Phoenix had been given a new Commanding Officer. More so that it was K'nara .. He grinned inwardly as he imagined her face as she read the 'Transfer of Command' orders.
"OK Admiral, you are free to resume duties." the Doctor said.
"Thank you Doctor. I'll try not to darken your door again in the near future." Brahms said, picking up his tunic from the bio-bed. he caught sight of the rank insignia and wondered briefly, illogically, what had happened to the last few years for him to be here, now.
Putting the thoughts aside, he left Sick-bay and entered the nearest turbo-lift.
"Admiral Brahms quarters." he said.
"Please restate the destination."
Marcus thought for a second then stated his destination as requested.
"Halt at the deck containing Admiral Brahms' living quarters !"
The lift began a rapid assent through the massive Star base. he exited and went to his quarters, a quick shower and change of uniform did him the world of good. Refreshed, shrugging, he went to work, or whatever Star fleet deemed to call it, as he himself had no clue.
One hour later he was in Operations .. Everyone acknowledged his presence as he walked across the seemingly vast room to his office. Waiting for the doors to close behind him, he looked out of the full wall window, open space lay beyond. Thirty millimeters of plexi-glass ... He wondered for a fraction of a second if it could be broken, extinguishing all oxygen, not to mention all life, in the room ..
He finally sat at the large real oak desk and wondered how long he could hold out before getting to work ..........
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