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Post by Marcus Brahms on Mar 11, 2009 0:14:03 GMT
Chief of Star Fleet Operations ...
Marcus almost laughed as he read the name plaque thoughtfully provided for his desk.
He knew he had the job of course, but it was unfathomable how they had appointed 'him' considering his recent illness. Shrugging, he checked his agenda, apparently this informed his Adjutant, Commander Sarah Boden, that he was 'snooping' .. She walked into the office without requesting access. This told Brahms that she 'belonged' here, and he would do well to heed her council.
"Admiral ..." Sarah said, placing a pile of PADD's on his desk, "What can I get you ?"
Marcus looked at the corner of his once free from clutter desk, then looked up at the young woman.
"I'm Commander Sarah Boden Admiral. I'm your personal assistant come dogsbody, your sounding board, secretary, whatever you wish to describe me as. I can also help when needed !" she finished, a knowing smile forming.
She handed him a PADD then began to speak.
"We currently have seventeen ships docked, twenty six en-route, arrival within forty eight hours. Six departures scheduled. Eight ships in for repair or refit. The remainder of the fleet is reporting no issues."
Brahms was impressed with her. He looked down the list of docked ships, his eyes locking on one in particular .. USS Dark phoenix ...
"The Phoenix is here." it wasn't a question.
"Currently on shore leave Admiral." Sarah said, not skipping a heart-beat, "She's taking on new crew and receiving several upgrades. She's not due out for several days if you would like to erm vis ... Inspect her Sir."
Brahms gave that option a great deal of thought before deciding.
"No ... Keep me informed of her progress. And ... Find something for her to look into." Brahms said, "I'm sure her Captain would much rather be 'out there' than stuck here. Thats all Commander." Brahms finished.
He glanced at the Dark Phoenix notification on-screen several times as he mulled his situation over yet again. He couldn't take the Phoenix back, Wouldn't, in fact didn't even want to ! .. He just hoped that he wasn't going to be tied to this ornate oak desk until he retired ... 'Or died' he thought sullenly ..........
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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 11, 2009 12:13:05 GMT
The night before, Kelly, Chloe and Mike had sat up late. Mainly keeping Kelly company while she packed her belongings, but also to prolong the moment when all three would have to get to bed, bringing the morning sooner.
~~~~~~~~~~
Chloe had slept with Kelly and she came into the main room looking tired.
"Morning Sweetheart." Mike said as she came to him, giving him a hug.
"Morning. Kelly will be out in a minute." she said, sadness in every word.
Mike got up and requested pancakes and orange juice for two. Placing them on the table he leaned forward to kiss Chloe on the top of her head. She was holding back tears, he could tell that much. Kelly came from the bedroom, dropping a large canvas bag next to the door as she passed. She sat down and smiled at the breakfast he'd prepared.
"Pancakes." she said, a wry grin forming, "Didn't think you would have remembered." she finished, tucking in to her food.
Mike looked at the chronometer .. Zero six forty five .. They will need to leave in forty five minutes, to allow Kelly to report aboard in plenty of time. He was dreading that point. But it seemed both Chloe and Kelly knew exactly when they were leaving, as both got on with breakfast without too much chatter. He knew they had stayed up until the early hours talking quietly. 'Maybe they had said everything that needed to be said last night' he mused.
Then it was time ..
Picking up Kelly's bag, they left the quarters and headed for the turbo-lifts. Dropping many decks, they arrived at the dock levels. Mike checked the boards even though he knew exactly where the Mary Rose was docked, and what time she was due to depart. Chloe and Kelly walked hand in hand to the check-in desk .. That sorted out, they moved to find a good vantage point near the massive plexi-glass windows, where Chloe could watch the ship leave.
Kelly held the ten year old in her arms as both sobbed quietly. Mike sat next to Chloe holding on to Kelly's free hand. It was all getting too much. Then the boarding call sounded ..
"Please stay Kelly ... Please." Chloe said, almost inaudible with her head buried in Kelly's jacket.
Kelly gave her one last squeeze, then kissed her forehead tenderly. She stood, moving forward to give Mike a fond embrace, Chloe joined them and it became a 'family' goodbye.
"We'll keep in touch OK Mike. and Chloe, I'll call you every week. I want you to be happy with your Dad OK, do well in school, and make sure you are there when I call you."
"I will .. I prom ... Promise." Chloe sobbed.
Taking her bag from Mike, she gave him a tender kiss, the same for Chloe, then she walked down the corridor connecting the 'base to the ship. Seconds later she was gone.
Fifteen minutes later, Mikes Comm badge chirped .. He knew it was Kelly, so he took the badge off and handed it to Chloe.
=^= I love you Princess .. I love you SO much and I'll miss you every day =^=
=^= Love you too Kelly =^= Chloe said quietly.
=^= I'll call you both tomorrow .. OK ? =^=
=^= OK ...... =^=
The Comm closed and seconds later the Mary Rose began to move slowly backward, rotating slowly until she faced the enormous outer doors. They parted slowly, but nowhere near slow enough for Chloe, she began to cry uncontrollably, heaving sobs, making it difficult for her to get her breath. Then the Rose was outside and the doors began to close.
Mike let her cry for long long moments before finally speaking to her quietly.
"Come on Sweetheart. We need to go now."
They walked from the departure lounge, Chloe's arms wrapped tightly around Mike's waist. He felt so helpless, he wanted to help his Daughter, holding her seemed to be doing that, he also thought about Kelly, he would miss her too .. He could feel the warmth of the first tear as it rolled down his cheek ..........
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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 11, 2009 16:33:36 GMT
Waking, Mike glanced at Chloe's bedroom door. he hoped she was still asleep as neither of them had got to bed early. In fact Chloe had fallen asleep in his arms.
He took a quick shower and dressed in a clean uniform, before going back into the main room for breakfast.
"Morning." Chloe said, stifling a yawn.
Mike turned, she was curled up on the settee, a large pillow over her knees. She must have woke during the night and changed, as he had placed her on her bed dressed.
"Good morning. Did you sleep OK ?" he asked sitting beside her.
"A little." she said, moving the pillow so she could move closer to him. She reached out and took his glass of fresh orange, grinning, she took a drink then handed the glass back. It was then he noticed the addition to the room ... It was a silver frame on the table, he reached over and picked it up, turning it to see the picture. Chloe had gone quiet, watching him intently.
It was a picture of a woman, mid twenties, slim, long brown hair, eyes you could fall into. She was sat next to a young girl, maybe four or five, very pretty ... It was Rachael and Chloe ... "Do you like it ?"
He was silent for many seconds as he looked at every single micron of the image of Rachael.
"Yes .. I like it Sweetheart. I really do." he said, kissing her on the cheek as a thank you.
"We were on holiday. " she said, turning the picture so she too could see it, "On Earth with my Nan and Grandpa. That's the grand canyon you know !"
"Yes, I know." he said, smiling at his own memories of their time together. Then he put the photo back on the table, "How do you fancy moving some of our things onto the Phoenix today. We could pick up some new stuff for your room too if you like."
"OK .. But breakfast first." she said jumping off the settee, she picked up the picture, placing a small kiss on her Mothers image, then ran to the replicator, "You like omelets ?"
"Yes." Mike said, a warm feeling building within him as he watched his Daughter ..........
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Post by Mel D'BrooNi on Mar 11, 2009 20:20:26 GMT
Mel was sat in one of the promenades of resurrection fuming. Ian had let her sleep in and gone on shift so she had caught up with all her messages. Unfortunately a certain person had stabbed her in the back again.
She hadn't even informed anyone she was coming to the station, on the spur of the moment deciding to file the complaint in person. Not that it had done any good. It had just fallen on deaf ears. So instead, here she was miserable, angry and feeling very very fat and unattractive from being pregnant. It didn't help that D'BrooNi was bombarding her with memories of Leiko looking glamourous over the years.
"Melanie D'BrooNi. I heard you were in the neighbourhood,"
Mel's head snapped and she felt the anger she was desperately holding back. "Well Cedric, you stole my research again. Did you expect me to roll over and take it," she hissed at him.
"Thought we might hit this little snag," he mumbled.
"Really. Did you? For real or did you think I suggest getting a nice cup of tea or something" Mel raised her voice to him. "The aasimar upgrades, you whined and whined till starfleet moved them to here. And now I have rakhari technology and you do the same. I had a whole 2 weeks of testing and holodec time worked out. And I was ready to sink my teeth into it. You know Im the most qualified to study this. The Phoenix has been up against those furry aliens numerous times. This should be my baby"
Cedric seemed to notice something. "I'd say you have one on your hands there. Hell, when did you get knocked up Mel."
Mel slapped him with all the might and dignity she could muster. Then sat down and sighed loudly.
"Okay nice rock too," Cedric muttered rubbing his face where Mels engagement ring had caught his cheek. "Look it wasn't me. One of the Klingons petitioned it. Yeah I will totally admit it was too good an offer to pass up but I didn't . . . . do you really think I want your captain at my throat again after last time? It wasn't me okay."
Mel glared at him.
"And your right, you are the best qualified which is why . . . . I swallowed my pride and upon realising you had come in person, and came to request your help while your docked," Cedric said. "Its the best I can do okay, its not fully in my hands."
He looked sincere. Mel had spent plenty of years co-existing with him in the academy to know when he was being sincere. She figured it was the only way to get to see everything and not read about it instead.
"Okay, but I get to bring a couple of others onboard as well," Mel demanded knowing full well Charlie wanted to be in on this.
"On top of the other 6 hosts?" Cedric joked. It lightened the mood and Mel did manage a smile. "Leiko still got the hots for me then?" he carried on.
"You wish," Mel muttered.
"So seriously congrats, how long are you?" Cedric indicated her bump.
Mel smiled, "4 and half months. Its a boy."
"Cedrics a good name you know,"
Laughing, she stood up. "Come on buy me a decaffinated tea."
A while later, having managed to avoid being onboard the ship so not to run into Peter again Mel returned. She knew his shift finished soon and intended to be at her mums quarters when he turned up to ask Tay about this mindmeld.
Sitting down, Tay was excitably chatting about Kenji having been in touch and asking him to come to a kids baseball game onboard the starbase.
"And he's got a bat already, one of the human kids in the quarters next door showed him how to swing and tommorow we are going to hit some balls, if its okay for me to . . . " Tay stopped for a moment.
"Mel are you listening to me. You look miserable."
"It's nothing honey," she lied. "Come on lets replicate you your own bat and you can show me." She said keeping an eye on the door.
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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 11, 2009 21:57:05 GMT
After clearing away the breakfast things, Chloe and Mike packed what belongings they had and left their quarters for the last time.
As they entered the Dark phoenix the Security Officer merely nodded to Rampton.
"Morning Commander."
"Morning Lieutenant." Mike replied.
"Sir ... I need to see your Identification for our records ... And the young ladies too please."
Mike hunted in his bag for his ID while Chloe did likewise ... Both handed over the ceramic identification and the Officer scanned both into his palm reader.
"Michael Rampton ..." the Officer queried, Mike nodded, "Chloe Louise Rampton ..." Chloe nodded too, looking at her Father, "Thank you. Have a good day." the woman said, handing the ID's back.
Mike managed to get all of three steps before he turned to his Daughter.
"Your surname is Rampton." he said, both shocked and somehow pleased, "When did your Mum change your name to mine Chloe ?"
"It's always been Rampton Daddy." Chloe said, confused, "She said I should be called Rampton so I didn't need to change it if you and Mum ever erm, got back together ... I think she knew it wouldn't happen straight away, because she wanted to let you know about me first. I guess she didn't do it in time before she ......"
She hugged her Father and he hugged back, then both stood, grabbed their bags and entered the Dark Phoenix. Mike stunned at what Rachael had done.
~~~~~~~~~~
Checking the computer panel set into the bulkhead, he asked the computer directions to their quarters, then followed the green tracer light that moved ahead of them until they reached the door. entering Mike noticed it wasn't as big as the rooms on Resurrection, but then space was at a premium on-board a Star ship. Chloe seemed more than happy with her new home and ran from room to room before claiming which was to be 'her' room. She had picked the larger of the two bedrooms and Mike had no objection to her taking it. after all, he didn't need all that room, and he suspected that she certainly would.
Mike threw his bags on the bed and went to the main room. Spotting the replicator, he decided to have a drink before they hit the shops, as Chloe called it.
"Cappuccino." he requested.
"Please restate request for voice identification purposes." the ship said.
"Cappuccino." Mike repeated.
"Thank you Commander Rampton." the ships computer said, the beverage materializing a second later.
He called Chloe and asked her to ask for a drink so her voice pattern was on file too.
"OK .... Ready for shopping ?" he said ten minutes later. After getting the nod from his Daughter, both left their quarters and headed back to Resurrection. It dawned on Mike that apart from Naois, he'd not seen a single member of the Senior Staff yet. but he figured that if most of them were using their time to get onto the 'base, he would bump into one or two of them at some point, if not, then he'd go looking ..........
OOC: Could the CO/XO please post giving me my Security access.
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Post by Dr. Valeia Roquel Mercy on Mar 12, 2009 17:24:57 GMT
"Valeia, are you ready?" her husband called in to her just as the doctor picked up the final report. The morning had been fairly quiet with only a few routine cases, and now Valeia was only a single data padd away from being completely finished.
“Not quite,” Doctor Mercy called back. “But I should be done in five minutes or so.”
"I will go on ahead. Join me as soon as possible," came Naois’ reply from sickbay.
“Alright,” Valeia called back before turning her attention in earnest to her report. It had been a long mission, Klingons and Pon Farr included, but the doctor was really looking forward to shoreleave. The only bad thing about having Naois on the Dark Phoenix for a mission was knowing that meant he most likely wouldn’t be there for the next one, that is unless K’Nara got her way. That whole conversation was still bothering the Betazoid, as she hated being confused, not to mention Naois’ cryptic response to her questions, followed by a change in subject. She intended to bring it up again during lunch and was hoping to get a real, informative answer this time.
It didn’t take long to read and sign the report, file it away, and then turn sickbay over to Sianna before heading to lunch. Valeia felt like having a hot bowl of soup. For some reason, the ship was feeling colder to her, and she was absolutely freezing, probably the result of the fever she’d had for a few days. Entering the mess hall, the doctor spotted Naois and Peter having a conversation at a table to the left, so she headed to greet them. “There...see, I told you it wouldn’t take me very long. Hi, Peter. How are you feeling?” she asked politely, taking a seat next to her husband.
When the waitress approached, Valeia immediately jumped in to order, since she knew exactly what she wanted. “I’ll have a large bowl of vegetable soup and a cup of lemon tea, please,” she requested quickly, shivering slightly and hoping it would be there soon as Naois and Peter were asked if they would like to order something.
She was dying to snuggle closer to Naois for warmth, but knew how he felt about displays of affection in public, so she usually tried to keep them to a minimum, but she did take his hand under the table, so at least one hand could warm up a little. “I hope you don’t mind that I told Naois about your concerns from yesterday, Peter, since we had discussed you speaking with him next. He had sensed that you were bothered about something and asked me,” Valeia told him, feeling that she knew Commander Horn well enough to know that in this case he wouldn’t have minded.
It was at that moment, she spotted the padd lying on the table, and although she was mildly curious, she decided not to mention it, but Naois had seen her glance somehow and wordlessly slid it across the surface to her. Now a little more than just mildly curious, Valeia activated it and the blood drained from her face as she read it, reread it, and then read it again. Torn between absolute elation and the worry that Naois was unhappy, the doctor finally glanced up at her husband to gage his reaction, only to find a gleam in his eye like that of a cat who swallowed a canary.
Finally, understanding dawned. He’d been planning this all along, as a surprise for her, which was why he’d been avoiding talking about it until it was done. Now torn between elation and a very slight irritation that he tricked her, Valeia tried to glare at him but failed miserably as her face was far too happy to allow her to pull it off.
“You are so going to pay for that,” Valeia threatened, even though her face looked almost ready to split in half she was smiling so wide. “You had me worried that you were being forced into considering a transfer that you didn’t want, when all along, you’d already decided and applied. If I wasn’t so thrilled that we don’t have to be apart anymore, you’d be in so much trouble,” she added, before just about knocking him off his chair, wrapping her arms around him, and giving him a, long deep kiss. Knowing she had probably embarrassed him at least a little bit, Valeia pulled back grinning at him. “Well...now what do you have to say for yourself, Captain Mercy?”
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Post by Marcus Brahms on Mar 12, 2009 18:24:05 GMT
Brahms was stood looking at the stars ..
"Not giving you enough to do I see."
He turned to see Admiral O'Shassarra stood in the doorway.
"Oh I've plenty to do Admiral." Marcus said, glancing at the PADD's on his desk, "Just wish I knew 'what' I was supposed to be doing here."
O'Shasserra came in, seemingly mulling over which seat to take, then deciding, sat opposite Brahms'..
Picking the name plaque from th desk, she read it thoughtfully, before shrugging and putting it back, conscious of making sure it was in the same place.
"Well I'd say that was self-explanatory." she said, pointing to the notation.
"Hmmm." Brahms replied, "I just don't see how I'm suddenly whatever it is, when there are much more suitable Flag Officers.
"Are you going to pick at everything I do for you Marcus. We had no choice but give the Phoenix a new Commanding Officer, and it was obvious that you needed something to occupy your mind. You will do just fine in this role, I'm certain of that."
"That's a matter of ......"
"Opinion yes !" O'Shasserra interrupted, "Now ... Are you going to offer me a drink, or do I need to get up and raid that fancy spirits cabinet myself ?" ..........
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 12, 2009 21:23:54 GMT
With mild bemusement Peter watched as Valeia knocked her husband off his seat. However he didn't witness the rest, as he rose from his seat. “Please excuse me,” he told them both, then walked out of the mess hall, his lunch untouched. Minutes later, he approached Melanie's quarters, rang the doorbell, then waited patiently.
Ian answered. "Peter. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
Surprise crossed Peter's features as he was facing his former assistant. “I was hoping to find Melanie here,” he said, trying to recover his composure, “and incidently, I was looking for Tay.”
"Well Tays back with his mum now and Mel, I left her sleeping this morning, and shes gone out. But word to wise buddy," Ian said trying to phrase this delicately. "She's not your biggest fan right now, if you catch my drift."
“Drift?” Despite his Human ancestry, Peter honestly didn't understand that particular reference. “I understand in regards to being a fan, but I hope you understand my feelings in this? It is something I have to pursue, I feel honour bound to do it.”
Ian sighed gently. "I didn't get a word in last night and Im taking staying out of it as the best course of action. The safest course." Ian winked at him. "Charlie said she went to the starbase but that was hours ago. You might like to try Lorena's."
“I will, thank you Ian.” The Vulcan bowed ever so slightly, turned on his heels and left. Not long after, he stood before Lorena's door and signaled his presence. By now, he was starting to experience signs of nervousness, and he tried to collect his thoughts before the door would open. Taking a few deep breaths, he managed to hold himself together and will away the feeling of unease.
"I've got it mum," Tay's voice came through the door, which opened precisely 30 seconds afterwards.The young trill was stood in human sportswear, holding a baseball bat. "Mr Horn," Tay bowed politely and moved to allow him entry. Lorena and Melanie were sat in the living area.
“Greetings Tay, I trust you are having an enjoyable day?” Peter said by way of greeting, “did your mother or sister discuss anything with you, that I have recently discussed with them?” He peered past the boy, trying to feel the mood. He already sensed Melanie was here, and not in a mood to meet him, as Ian had predicted. “Perhaps we should continue to the livingroom, I do not wish to be accused of conspiring against your family.”
"I'm learning how to play baseball. Kenji and I are going to join in a game on the starbase. He's really coming out of his shell now, its great," Tay smiled. "Mum said you wanted to talk to me but Mel . . . . " he lowered his voice briefly. "I think shes upset about something. She said she felt fat when we met mums transport. Thats womens stuff isn't it?"
Peter offered a small but strained smile. “Yes that is a female issue, something men will never comprehend, I fear.” He shook his head from side to side once, as if remembering something. “Yes, I wished to speak with you, but I promised your mother I would not do so without her present, or without the presence of a counselor. Please, let us not keep your mother waiting, shall we?”
"Mum and Mel," Tay replied with a smile walking into the lounge area. "Commander Horn is here." The young Trill indicated a free chair. Mel shot Peter an icy gaze. Lorena broke the tension. "May I offer you a drink, Peter?"
Inclining his head, Peter took the offered chair, presently ignoring the glare his friend shot him. “Please,” he replied, “I assume you recall why I have come?” He looked up at Lorena, almost pleading with her. “I have conferred with Counselor Mercy, but he refuses to assist me. I need to ask Tay, all depends on him now, and your assistance after that.”
"Ask me what?" Tay said curiously. Mel kept her mouth shut though Peter could feel anger and fear emanating from her. Lorena pulled her son to sit in between her and Mel. "Mr Horn wishes to mind meld with you. He will explain more."
Peter folded his hands in his lap, breathing deeply. “You know how I keep after you for being troublesome?” he asked gently, “and I believe you feel harassed in some ways. Recently, we had an argument and things were said we both regretted. I understand that, but I have come to realise that I have a reason for being hard on you, and I wished to show you.” He nodded to Lorena. “I requested permission for a mind meld with your mother, but ultimately it is your decision. She cannot consent without your consent. Your mind is yours alone, though I shall not be trespassing into your memories. You shall be shown several of mine instead. You must, however, understand that it is not without danger, both to you as well as myself.”
Tay looked thoughtful for a moment. Then turned to his sister. "Thats why your upset isn't it?"
Mel finally spoke. "I don't want you to be in any danger from an alien procedure," she looked at Peter. "When there are other ways for you to tell him about your experiences."
“I am unaware of other possibilities,” Peter retorted, “and Tay will not be in any danger if we are monitored. As you well know, a mind meld does not have to take long, especially not when the instigator is highly trained.”
"Peter," Melanie leaned forward. "You have been ordered not to carry these out and think about it on the other foot. Would you put Seleya, lilah or connor through an alien procedure with a risk of danger just because someone "felt" they had to do this. Even Naois has refused, Im certainly not happy, doesn't that tell you something? And I have other possibilities for you."
"No, I would not," Peter was forced to acknowledge, "but I am hardly alien...I mean.." He faltered, at a loss for words on how to explain his desire to pass on something so private not even Harley knew. "What other way is there?" he asked, helplessly.
"You are an alien to us as we are to you. You are Vulcan, we are Trill. Our thinking, our beliefs, our culture is different. Thats fact. And other possibilities, well for one," Mel said. "You can just talk to him about your experiences. Or If you really feel you need a visual for him, then utilise me. I can programme anything in a holodeck. And that I would assist you with. A mind meld I will not."
“Talking is insufficient, showing is more practical,” Peter argued, then blinked as her words sunk in. How stupid had he been? “You can?” he suddenly asked, clearly surprised. “How, without seeing what I mean to visualise?”
"You need to describe it to me and we can work together to get what you want programmed in," Mel sighed calming down somewhat. "It won't be perfect but it won't put Tay in any danger. Or you get your ass hauled by K'Nara if she gets wind of you mindmelding."
"K'Nara never need know," Peter answered softly, barely audible. "Very well, I will tell you what I need visualised. Do you have a PADD?" While he asked, he turned to Tay, who must feel ignored by now. "You see...when I was your age, I was no different than you are now. Probably...worse..."
"Mr Horn," Tay said seriously. "I am concerned that at your age now, in wanting to show me why you are so hard on me, you would so willing defy orders." He tutted. "But I am willing to see your experiences via the holodeck. I would not have consented to a mind meld if it meant Mel would be worried about me."
Peter bowed his head in acknowledgement. “The choice was ultimately yours,” he acknowledged, “I would not have persisted if you said no, and I will not. And, as you know, I am capable of disobeying orders if I believe the end goal is to save lives. In that, I believe that showing you may save lives, here on this vessel.” He ruffled Tay's hair. “You are, after all, a rascal.”
He paused, thinking hard, before describing, in detail, to Mel what he wanted to show. With bright eyes, he looked up at her. “Can you do that?” he asked, in wonder. He had just described his most recent dream to her, which had landed him in the brig and had earned him a good beating from the security chief, after he had altered the working of the turbolifts.
"My mother was infuriated," he added, clearly embarassed.
"Peter," Mel said smiling. "Check my record. I scored higher in holodeck programming than anyone else in my year at the academy. And I bet she was infuriated. Its nice to see that I was not the only child to drive their mother mad growing up."
Cheeks turning a brighter shade of green, Peter refused to meet her eyes. “That was not the worst of it,” he murmured, almost inaudible.
"You are as they say," Lorena said returning from making tea. "A dark horse then."
“I beg your pardon?” Peter's head shot up, glaring eyes on the Trill woman. “There is no need to compare me to an equus, thus insulting me...” Obviously, he didn't understand the reference.
Lorena looked horrified to Mel. "Peter, Its a human figure of speech. Mum is not insulting you, Ian uses that phrase."
"What does it mean?" Peter asked quietly, ashamed of his outburst but not ready to apologise for it.
"Something akin to unexpected. Your actions as a child are unexpected to our perception of you now," Mel answered having moved from the couch to the terminal in Lorena's quarters happily tapping away.
"I see..." The Vulcan hesitated. "But it did make me in who I am now. Mr Janeway became my rolemodel, he took me under his wing and taught me what I know. He did not give up on me, and trust me, it took me several years to learn to behave." His blush deepened. "You are the first to know," he admitted.
"And we will keep it to ourselves," Mel said. Tay nodded. "I will not even discuss it with Seleya. By the way, is she allowed to play baseball?" he asked.
“Certainly, though she may be a little young for it still. Perhaps you should ask her, instead of me?” Peter smiled, a little brighter now, relieved to have the matter settled. “Has your opinion of me changed?” he asked of the young Trill.
Tay looked thoughtful again then nodded. "Yes.”
"In which perspective?" the Vulcan continued, clearly interested in the boy's views.
"In wishing to explore your childhood with me, I feel you are trying to connect with me alittle more, rather than just being an adult yelling at me. And if you are willing to break rules to show me then what you are going to show me must be a serious lesson," Tay said acutely.
“I feel it is my duty to show you, as well,” the first officer added slowly, “and I am honour bound to do so as well. I vowed I would not let happen again, what I have done to my mother's fellow crewmembers, when I was seven years old. The worst was when I nearly destroyed a shuttlecraft, after stealing it.” He did not elaborate, clearly not wishing to discuss that incident further. ~I will tell you in private~ he promised Melanie ~but not now~
Mel nodded. Tay however continued talking. "I do not wish to be responsible for blowing up shuttles sir. It may affect my chances of convincing you I am worthy of bonding with Seleya." Mel raised her eyebrows but said nothing in response.
Peter sighed, shaking his head, then rubbed his temples. “Tay, can we discuss that another time?” he asked gently, “I have a headache now.” It was no lie, he did have a headache. “I need to return to the bridge now, the new security chief has reported in, I need to meet with him shortly. Do you wish to come?”
Tay shook his head. "I have to become skilled in baseball, so we do not lose. Will you come watch Kenji, Seleya and I play?"
"Come find me when the game is on," Peter promised, "I will make time to watch, I promise. And you know I keep my promises, correct?"
"Yes sir," Tay saluted at Peter.
Peter offered a smart salute in return, smiled at Melanie, then left their quarters and headed back for the bridge.
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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 12, 2009 23:56:13 GMT
Leaving the ship, Chloe and Mike entered the massive Star base ..
Entering one of the turbo-lifts, they ascended to the main promenade decks. Here, on six levels, were shops, Cafe's, everything the determined shopper could need.
Exiting the 'lift on the uppermost deck, they began to move from shop to shop. Rampton knew he was in for a long day ..
Around lunchtime, thought it could have been twenty hundred hours for all Mike's dazed head knew, Chloe had only managed to fill two reasonably sized bags when she decided that she needed to eat. She looked round for a suitable eatery and headed for a table ...
~~~~~~~~~~
Some four hours, and six more bags later, they were on their way back to the Phoenix. An Ensign, who had noticed Rampton on the ship earlier, offered to carry a few of the bags. Mike accepted with relief and the three boarded the ship.
"Thank you Ensign." Mike said as the young woman put the bags down, "Couldn't have got back without your help."
"No problem Sir .. Happy to help." she replied before leaving.
Mike carried the majority of the bags into Chloe's room then wondered how she was going to actually 'fit' everything in there.
"Chloe ..." he began, disturbing his Daughters' unpacking, "I need to go to the Bridge for a a short time, So you can leav ......"
"Do these bags 'look' as if they're going to unpack themselves Daddy." she interrupted, a look of playful exasperation on her face, "Go on, I'm nearly eleven you know ... I'll be OK, I promise." she finished, reaching up to kiss him on the cheek.
Mike wasn't one hundred percent sure he should be leaving his Daughter alone, but he knew she would be OK, besides, he'd voice-lock the door on his way out, so she can't get out and go exploring on her own.
"Erm ..." he began, but one look from Chloe made his mind up, "Right, I'll leave you to it. I shouldn't be more than thirty minutes. If you need me them use the Comm .... OK ?"
"Yes Daddy .. Whatever you say Daddy." she said with a curtsy.
"Cheeky !" Mike said, then hugged her for a moment, "We're going to be OK aren't we sweetheart ?"
"Yes ... Yes we are." Chloe said in a voice much older and wiser than her mere ten years, "Now GO will you .. Before I get you to carry the BIG bags in here for me." she finished, giggling evilly.
Mike left their quarters and headed for the turbo-lift, then returned to the door ..
"Computer .. Lock my quarters .. Open on my voice command only unless in emergency."
"Quarters locked." the ship confirmed.
Smiling, but still a little apprehensive at leaving her alone, Mike went back to the lift.
"Bridge ... Cancel that ... Deck three."
The lift dropped then slowed to a stop at his destination. stepping out, he checked the mental mag he had of the Nova Class, then headed down the corridor .. Entering his office, he could see everything of the previous 'tenant' had already been removed. He passed through the office to the Brig itself. He was surprised on several counts to find a Lieutenant monitoring the empty cells.
"Evening Commander. I didn't expect to see you until at least tomorrow."
"Lieutenant .." Mike said, a frown forming, "Why are you down here, don't you have something better to be doing ?"
"Williams Sir ... There's always someone down here Sir. Guests, or no guests." the Lieutenant replied.
"But we're docked." Mike said, bemused.
"Yes Sir."
"Not anymore." Rampton said. "Change standing orders. I'll sort it tomorrow. Get yourself off Mister Williams. You're relieved."
"Yes Sir. Thank you Sir." Williams said, heading for the door before his new Boss could have a change of heart.
Mike raised his arms in wonder. He couldn't for the life of him see why empty cells needed monitoring, but it wasn't happening from here on in he decided ..
Leaving the Brig, he re-entered the turbo-lift and this time requested the Bridge.
As the doors opened, he could only see one base technician. He moved round to the Command area and sat in the Exec' seat .. ten minutes later he was still sat quietly pondering where everyone had got to.
'Maybe I should have called ahead' he thought wryly, then got up. He had a quick look at the Tactical Station then decided to go back to his quarters. Entering the turbo-lift he requested Deck two. He couldn't help wondering what condition his quarters were in now Chloe had had time to 'un-pack' ..........
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 13, 2009 21:54:13 GMT
Naois gasped in surprise when Valeia literally knocked him off his chair, then watched Peter leave in what seemed to be quite a hurry. Now, lying flat on his back, ignoring whoever else was in the mess hall, the Vulcan stared up at his wife, not daring to move so much as a muscle.
"How am I going to pay, when there is no currency?" he asked innocently, though he sensed she wasn't happy with him right now; at least not entirely happy as her emotions were laced with joy. "I apologise if I have misled you, but I intended for this to be a surprise."
Slowly, he raised himself up on his elbows, then reached up for the table to pull himself back to his feet. He kept his eyes on his wife, wondering if she would strike him down, or pull some other unexpected emotion on him. "Please tell me you want me to be here?" he whispered, confused by her overall reaction, "because I do want to be here. I do not wish to be parted from you again..."
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 13, 2009 22:03:45 GMT
Just as Rampton entered, Peter was about to step out and the two men collided hard. Unruffled, Peter steadied himself as well as the Human commander. "Ah Commander Rampton, you are expected. Please find Captain Corval in her quarters, it is imperative that you report in to her at once. Captain Mercy passed on your report to him, and she was not pleased."
He offered a brief salute. "Carry on commander, and welcome aboard."
The Vulcan continued his way to his former station, almost on auto-pilot, then realised what he was doing and changed course for the center seat. He would take a few hours of duty before taking Harley and the children to Resurrection for some shoreleave.
Two hours later, he left the bridge in the capable hands of Master Chief Caroline Johnson, and headed for the captain's quarters. "Captain, we have stood down from operations, the Phoenix is docked and crew are leaving for shoreleave. Captain Mercy's transfer orders arrived, and I do hope that Commander Rampton reported in to you?"
He paused as K'Nara gave her response. "Permission to stand down from duty and attend to shoreleave?" He gazed directly at the Klingon. "I could do with a few hours off ship," he confided to her, "I almost did something very unforgivable early, and I need to occupy myself with something trivial, to take my mind off it."
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Post by Dr. Valeia Roquel Mercy on Mar 14, 2009 5:56:22 GMT
Although she’d only given him a tackle/hug out of the blue, Naois hadn’t expected it, and the hug had thrown him off balance, which when she let him go, sent him falling to the floor. Valeia had tried to grab his arm to keep him from falling, but it had been too late to keep him in his seat. She was about to apologize when Peter stood up with a semi-amused look on his face. “Please excuse me,” Commander Horn murmured before heading for the door, much to her surprise and confusion.
Frowning after Peter, Valeia turned back to Naois, about to apologize again, when he spoke first. "How am I going to pay, when there is no currency?" Naois asked innocently, causing a smirk to cross her face, as that was about as close as he got to joking. "I apologize if I have misled you, but I intended for this to be a surprise."
As he started to get up, the doctor instinctively reached out to help him up, but at least he appeared uninjured. Before she could let him off the hook so to speak, he spoke first again. "Please tell me you want me to be here, because I do want to be here. I do not wish to be parted from you again..." he whispered, looking confused.
All trace of irritation vanished then, as she reached out to take his hand. “Oh Naois, of course I want you to be here...and I am so incredibly happy that we won’t have to be separated anymore. I do understand wanting to surprise me. Had K’Nara not said anything to me about it, I would have been entirely surprised, and it would have been very sweet and romantic of you, but once she said something, I started to think that transferring was her idea, and that maybe you didn’t want to but were possibly being pushed into it. So I was just a little irritated that you didn’t tell me then, or later when we went back home, when I asked you about it and you knew I was concerned,” Valeia explained, again thinking that she had a lot to teach him about some of the smaller details of a serious relationship especially involving romance, but to his credit, he’d tried to be romantic with a surprise…it had just gone wrong.
“If she hadn’t said anything, you would have pulled off a fantastic surprise. Since she did say something, I do wish you would have told me, but even not telling me, it turned out to be almost like a practical joke, a good practical joke since it ended with a good surprise, but a prank nonetheless. But part of that means I have to be a little mad at you...that’s just how it works.” Thinking from the look on his face that she had probably just confused him further, Valeia sighed and finally just smiled at him. “Look, it’s alright now. I know what you were trying to do, and I’m not mad at you. Now I’m really excited that we won’t have to say goodbye once shoreleave is over. It appears, we have something to celebrate while we have some time off.”
Grinning at him, knowing that he knew exactly what she meant by that, Valeia was glad to see their lunch order arriving, and remembering how much she had wanted soup thanked the waitress, first taking a long sip of her tea and then quickly getting a spoonful of soup. It was really good, and already she was starting to feel warmer. “Oh, I’m sorry for knocking you over. My only intent was to give you an unexpected hug and not push you to the ground like that. Are you ok? I didn’t hurt you, did I?”
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Post by K'nara Corval on Mar 14, 2009 21:39:55 GMT
"Captain, we have stood down from operations, the Phoenix is docked and crew are leaving for shoreleave. Captain Mercy's transfer orders arrived, and I do hope that Commander Rampton reported in to you?"K'Nara felt a flame of annoyance. She may well have met Rampton in his role at the starbase before but he had not followed protocol in joining her crew. "No Mr Horn, he has not reported in to me." "Permission to stand down from duty and attend to shoreleave?" He gazed directly at the Klingon. "I could do with a few hours off ship," he confided to her, "I almost did something very unforgivable early, and I need to occupy myself with something trivial, to take my mind off it."K'Nara looked on Horn and noted he looked fatigued. "Mr Horn, of course you can be released for shoreleave but I am concerned. What have you done that is almost unforgivable?" Tag <Horn / Rampton - its not polite to keep a Klingon waiting
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 14, 2009 21:51:08 GMT
Peter looked down at his feet for a moment, feeling embarassed and angry with himself. "I almost enforced my own personal opinion on the mother and the sister of a young child," he confessed, "I have been experiencing a few personal difficulties I wished to share with the child, and almost enforced my methods, when clearly such methods have been forbidden by our previous captain."
He looked up to meet K'Nara's questioning gaze. "I almost performed a mindmeld on a child, to show him something of my own childhood, in the hope of making him understand how his behaviour is perceived by adults." His eyes hardened. "I was such a child myself ma'am, and I wished him to learn from it. I am grateful that I could be deterred from that action, but I experience guilt at the very idea nonetheless. Not to mention disobedience to standing orders, as it was in no way to save a life."
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Post by K'nara Corval on Mar 14, 2009 22:26:13 GMT
JP between Horn and K'Nara
K’Nara stared down Peter for a moment but the feelings emanating from her were surprisingly calm. She sat back in her chair regarding him. “I am not happy to hear that you considered disobeying orders but I am not one to talk, going by recent events. However I am pleased that you were honest with me. I do hope there are no bad feelings between yourself and Melanie?”
Peter almost smiled, albeit sadly. "I believe she came very close to striking me, but I cannot be certain. She certainly was very mad for even considering it, which I understand. Lorena said the choice was Tay's, ultimately and Tay refused on the grounds that it made his sister unhappy." He didn't even show any surprise at K'Nara having caught on that it was about Melanie and Tay.
K'Nara was unusually perceptive, he had learned.
As if reading his mind, K'Nara informed him. "It may surprise you but I do keep my eyes and ears open. I am aware of your interaction with the young Trill boy and it was on my list to speak you about. I will be honest with you now. I am not good with children. I’m not usually good with adults but with children I am worse and I would prefer that you keep the amount of time that children seem to pop up on the bridge to a minimum."
"As you wish," the Vulcan replied calmly, seeming to collect himself. "It was on your orders that I deal with him though, however I can try. I did intend to take him under my wing, and teach him about security." His smile widened a little as more memories resurfaced. "That is how I started, you know. Because I was a menace to my mother's colleague, he started to teach me, so I would have something to occupy myself with and thus keep out of mischief. Since it worked for me, I believe it may work for Tay as well. He is very much like me, overshadowed by older siblings."
"I am not saying do not take him under your wing and teach him about security. I actually agree with and feel that is a good idea. Just so to ensure he does not get under my feet or there end up being frightened children, limit the times he is on the bridge. The bridge is not a place for children nor is being in the path of an irritated Klingon."
"I understand." Peter paused for a few seconds. "We have agreed on using the holodec now," he finally revealed, "so no orders will be disobeyed. I did, however seek permission from Lorena first, before actually approaching Tay on the subject. After all, he is a child, and the dangers are far too great, both for him and for me. Probably greater for me as they are twenty-year old memories. I just find it annoying that they resurface now, when I have not thought of them in years." Embarrassment crossed his features again, before he rose to his feet. "Permission to attend to shore leave, ma'am?"
K'Nara eyed him with a strangely concerned look for a Klingon as if she was trying to weigh up if this was something she should be keeping an eye on. "Permission granted. Just keep me appraised. Oh and I would appreciate the score of the baseball game," she said with a hint of a smile.
A single eyebrow was arched in surprise. "Baseball?" he queried innocently. "Oh, I shall be speaking to the counselor about my daydreams. Perhaps they serve a purpose, beyond just being a nuisance. Naois is the expert, not I. I have also seen the doctor about them, there is no need for your concern. I am in perfect health, the doctor reassured me of that." He indicated the still braced arm, though he no longer used the sling. "This is a reminder to take it easy at the moment, even though I no longer really need it."
"Good," K'Nara concluded. "As I will not be speaking to the Doctor on your behalf if you do not follow her instruction. Try not to get in any trouble onboard resurrection."
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Post by Naois Mercy on Mar 15, 2009 21:44:12 GMT
"I am undamaged," Naois replied, after making a show of checking himself over, "you did not hurt me." He smiled. "I do not believe you capable of physically hurting me," he added slyly, then rose to his feet. "Shall we visit the starbase?" he continued, pulling her up with him, "we need to relocate some of my belongings to the Phoenix now, though my quarters do not need to be vacated. I am retaining my captain's rank and I will always be an instructor, I am just assigned to a starship. Captain Corval knows she will outrank me, for as long I am assigned to her vessel. Only on the starbase, do I outrank her."
He held out his hand to her. "Or did you have something else in mind?" He gazed deep into her eyes. "I am content at doing whatever you choose," he told her, "though perhaps tonight we could dine aboard the starbase. I know several good restaurants, that serve palatable food, vegetarian included."
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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 17, 2009 17:53:20 GMT
Stepping over bags of clothing, ornaments, several pictures, Mike found his way to a chair. Moving even more 'stuff' he looked round for a suitable location to put it so he could sit himself down.
"Just throw them on top of that lot ..." Chloe said, pointing at an already large pile of clothing, "... I'll be moving them in here soon." she finished.
"He was about to inquire 'how' she was going to manage this without personal wormhole technology, when the Comm chirped.
=^= Commander Rampton =^= he said after tapping his badge.
=^= Sir .. You asked me to inform you when Captain Corval returned to the ship =^=
=^= I did ? =^= Mike asked, honestly uncertain at when he'd made the request.
=^= She is on the Bridge at the moment Commander =^=
=^= Thank you =^= Mike replied, then closing the Comm he got up.
"Chloe. I need to go up to the Bridge. The Captain is back aboard and I need to report in."
"Okey ...." Chloe replied from her room.
Mike shook his head in amusement then left their quarters ... minutes later, he left the turbo-lift and looked round the Bridge for the Commanding Officer. He found her talking to a technician close to the Tactical station. He walked over but halted a discreet distance away as per protocol.
"...... and the new telemetry readings will be in effect before we depart Resurrection ?" she asked the man.
"Yes Captain. No problem." the Lieutenant said, then nodding respectfully, climbed back under the console .. Corval turned ..
"Ahh .. Commander Rampton ...."
Rampton straightened at the Captain's opening, then when she seemed to be waiting for a reply, he spoke.
"Commander Michael Rampton .. Chief Tactical and Security Officer reporting in Sir." he said. He had met the Klingon woman several times before, but never as his Commanding Officer, it was strange, he decided.
"My ready room if you please 'Commander' ..." K'Nara said, obviously not waiting for any form of reply as she headed off the Bridge.
< tag : Captain >
~~~~~~~~~~
Twenty minutes later, wondering if he'd been welcomed aboard, or told he'd just got a weeks' detention while at school, he left the Captains ready room and stepped into the Bridge turbo-lift.
Entering his quarters, deeming not to comment on the mess, he went straight to the replicator. Chloe popped her head round the door to say 'Hi' and noticed his mood.
"Cognac." he requested, smiling at his Daughter, "Want one ?" he said jokingly.
"Nooo !" Chloe said, moving to him and giving him a welcome hug, "Strawberry milkshake please." she finished, then once the beverages materialized, she pulled him to the settee and sat beside him.
"Was the Captain OK then ?"
Mike shrugged.
"To be honest sweetheart .. I'm not too sure if I've been welcomed, or told off for not going looking for the Captain when I received my orders ..." he said, a puzzled look on his face, then raising his glass, "... I must be the first person to walk away from a Klingon confused ... Cheers to me." he finished, the glasses making the familiar 'clanking' sound as they came together.
Chloe laughed then took a drink of her 'shake ..
"Well you better not be confused when you start your first shift. Or the Captain might send you back here to tidy up !" she said, digging a finger into his side, then both of them laughed, seeing the funny side of their arrival ..........
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Post by K'nara Corval on Mar 18, 2009 21:11:19 GMT
"Commander Michael Rampton .. Chief Tactical and Security Officer reporting in Sir." he said.
K'Nara looked the man up and down. They had met before. She couldn't recall if he had ever annoyed her to date, which was good but still he had reported in to the counselor before her and according to reports gone to his office and changed proceedures before having the curtiousy to announce himself.
"My ready room if you please 'Commander' ..." K'Nara said walking briskly and realising for a second that that was the first time she had said that. It had always been Brahms ready room. It felt alien sitting at the opposite side of the desk as she sat down with what she hoped was enough grace for a Klingon starfleet captain.
"I did not have the greatest relationship with my last secuirty chief and I do not wish to see a repeat of that," she informed him not bothering to offer refreshments. K'Nara was a direct person and the crew were having that from day one. "So this time I am going to overlook you not reporting in to me and instead going to Naois Mercy. However in future I expect decorum to be maintained."
Not letting the man get a word in edgeways she continued. "I see from the joining papers you are with family now, a young girl?" This time she did allow him to answer.
"Yes Maam. I recently discovered I had a daughter and she is now in my care as the mother has tradically passed on," Rampton informed her looking slightly doey eyed. Another trait K'Nara did not like in her officers. "She is proving to be a colourful personality . . ." Rampton continued.
"It is a unique situation I am sure and you will adjust Mr Rampton. If you struggle with that, then Mr Mercy is an excellent sounding board I am told. Klingons do not talk about there feelings you see, and our children are different to human ones so I am not the best person to discuss this with," She informed him then paused for a moment. "Actually I suggest that you speak with your deputy Ian Brooks as he faces a simular situation with his partners younger brother and may be of help."
"My concerns however are that in handling your new parential duties, that you are able to balance your starfleet ones. Make sure that is the case," She stated firmly.
"Also make sure she does not appear on the bridge or any other essential areas. As I have made clear to my XO, children and bridges do not mix. Nor do Children and Klingons often."
"Finally we will be getting a new marine unit assigned to us. I know traditionally Security and Marines do not see eye to eye but from your record I am expecting you to prove that stereotype wrong," she smiled toothly at him.
She rose from her seat making it clear the meeting was concluding. "I will be calling a senior staff meeting together in the next couple of days, in the meantime I suggest you acquaint yourself with the ship and crew. Welcome aboard Mr Rampton," she finally extended a hand to shake his.
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Post by Mel D'BrooNi on Mar 19, 2009 20:20:33 GMT
Peter,Meet me at Resurrection Central Block, Deck 2A @ 1400 hours. I have a prototype mocked up.
See you soon.
Mel x
P.s. bring Jelly beans
Later
Mel wandered about the USS Fang curiously. Getting the templates for this class of ship had been easy and incorporating the "detailed" colour specs that Peter had provided meant that she had managed to create sections of the ship fairly easily.
The personality matrix programming had been slightly more taxing and she was still not sure she was fully hitting the nail on the head with the holocharacters but she would know soon enough. As both her unborn son and D'BrooNi had decided she wasn't allowed much sleep over the last couple of days, Mel had got stuck into this project. Seemily pregnancy, lack of sleep and some new and rather random food cravings produced some of her fastest work.
Mel stiffled a yawn then jumped as holo child Peter walked past her muttering in vulcan. He was as close to the photos and recording he had given her as she could get him. It was strange to see Peter this way and even more bizarre trying to get into her head the idea he had ever been troublesome. She wondered what Tay would make of this when he viewed it.
Ahead of her, round the corner there was a large thud. Her baby decided to choose that moment to start kicking and the holodec door materialised to the left of her allowing her vulcan colleague to stroll in. Peter took in his surroundings with a strange look on his face, more so as up ahead of the corridoor there started to be raised voices.
Mel smiled and raised her finger to her lips. She spotted the small bag of sweets in his hand, which Peter suddenly remembered and held out to her. Mel then indicated her head to move forward, popping a jelly bean in her mouth as they walked forward. The baby stopped moving around, it was as if the sugar soothed him right down. Clearly he had inherited Ians sweet tooth, she mused.
More shouting followed:
"How dare you boy,"
"And what are you going to do about it then?"
"Don't try my patience boy, I will not hestitate to stun you this time, regardless of who your mother is. Sabortaging a turbolift, I should put you in the brig . . . People could have got hurt.
"You will have to catch me first . . . "
Mel moved to the side, Peter wasn't quick enough being knocked sideways as his younger self ran past. And then somehow activated a forcefield which the angry security chief ran straight into.
"You there, why in the hell didn't you grab him," Holo Janeway demanded angrily squaring up to the real Peter. "That child is a menace."
"Freeze programme," Mel said excitably as Peter looked stunned to have come face to face with his old "mentor". "I think I need to tweak some of the interactions, was that even close to what you were picturing?" her eyes sparkled excitably.
<Horn>
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Post by Commander Peter Horn on Mar 19, 2009 20:52:12 GMT
On the bridge, Peter was sitting at one of the auxiliary consoles, trying to log his day's report, when suddenly a message popped up:
Peter,Meet me at Resurrection Central Block, Deck 2A @ 1400 hours. I have a prototype mocked up.
See you soon.
Mel x
P.s. bring Jelly beans
Arching an eyebrow, Peter stored the message then continued his log. At 1345, he walked off the bridge into the captain's readyroom, stated an order for jelly beans to the replicator then stared as the bag of sweets materialised.
Curious as to what exactly a jelly bean was, Peter picked one out of the bag, studied it for several seconds, sniffed at it once or twice, then stuck it into his mouth. The taste was unusual, though far too sweet for his taste. Swallowing quickly, he closed the bag, then strode out and into the turbolift.
Exactly on time, he walked into the holodeck, suddenly surrounded by his old memories. An odd spark appeared in his eyes as he watched his young self approach after witnessing an argument between himself and Graeme Janeway. He had forgotten that he'd been able to just erect forcefields at age seven. Something Uncle Johnny had taught him.
Absently, Peter held out the bag of sweets to the chief engineer. He was knocked aside by his younger self, and he stared after the child in wonder. He was oblivious to Melanie, until the holographic Graeme stormed past, bellowing at them for not stopping the child. "He caught us by surprise sir," Peter answered softly, watching Graeme storm off.
Only then did he become aware of his friend again. She was still munching on several of the coloured sweets. "I do not understand how you could eat those," he murmured, before realising she had asked him a question. "A very close approximation," he conceded, "remarkable..." He hesitated for several seconds, clearly unsure of what to do or say next. Then, quite stiffly, he offered her a hug before quickly releasing her again. "Very well done indeed, thank you. And you have depicted me at my worst behaviour too, save for.."
Again, the young Vulcan hesitated, wondering if he should share this. "Graeme did stun me," he confessed, "even put me in an airlock for several hours with reduced atmosphere." He frowned. "That was my first experience with Graeme at his maddest. My mother did nothing to help me, she let him have his way with me. I remember screaming, being very frightened at waking up in an airlock. Naturally, my behaviour did not improve, it only got worse, as I saw it as a challenge. Eventually, after Graeme really lost his temper, I was admitted to sickbay with a few broken ribs, a hairline fracture on my cheekbone and a few very large bruises." He chuckled darkly. "And I could not sit comfortably for several days. After that though, Graeme started to take me along on his shifts, teach me how security worked, and how important it was that I behaved."
Peter bowed his head in shame. "I owe him my life," he confessed, before looking up again. "Yes, I believe I am ready to show Tay...sooner, rather than later. He needs to see this, and if you can manage it, what I just described to you. I will teach him, I have promised you that much. It is up to him whether he will accept my teaching."
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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 21, 2009 1:03:52 GMT
Mike got back to his quarters. He glanced at the bedrooms, hearing Chloe still moving around. Hopefully she would get tired and turn in for the night soon.
"Computer .. Reduce lighting to forty percent." he said.
~~~~~~~~~~
He must have dozed, because he heard someone calling, seemingly far away, then felt himself being shaken ..
"Daddy ...... Dad ... Wake up ..."
"Wha ... Wh ..." Mike opened his eyes, he was disorientated for a few seconds as be moved from sleep to wakefulness, then he recognized the person shaking him, "Clo ... Chloe, sorry sweetheart. I must have nodded off .. What ti ....."
"It's twenty three fifty." Chloe said, "Come on you need to get some sleep. I'm sorry if I kept you up."
"No, you didn't, how's your room looking, I'd like to see it bef ..."
"You can see it tomorrow, it's bedtime now." Chloe insisted, and now fully awake, Mike could see his Daughter was shepherding him toward his own bedroom.
Kissing her on the forehead, he assured her he could manage, and waited while she went to her own room. Once satisfied she was safe, he entered his bedroom and all but collapsed on the bed .. He'd have a minute he thought, then wondering why the hell he was suddenly so exhausted, fell asleep .....
~~~~~~~~~~
Crying .....
He was asleep, but somewhere in that fitful sleep, his subconscious was active.
Crying .....
In his sleep, Mike frowned .. He was in that 'gray' area between being asleep, but still consciously aware that outside his cocoon, something was vying for his minds attention ... His eyes fluttered, as again he heard something that didn't quite fit the 'dream' he was experiencing.
Crying .....
Suddenly, his eyes flicked open ... Every sense telling him his Daughter was in danger ! .. Jumping off the bed he ran to her room, the door opening on his approach.
Chloe was in a fetal position on the bed, she was holding a picture of her and her Mother, whimpering softly in her sleep, she mouthed the word 'Mother' over and over again. Mike was distraught. He had no idea what to do next, this was alien to him.
After a moment, watching his ten year old Daughter seemingly struggle inwardly, he knelt beside the bed and moved the hair from Chloe's face, whispering quietly that everything was going to be OK. Instinct took hold of Chloe and she edged forward to caress, hug, be close to the one thing left to her. Mike edged forward to help Chloe stay on the bed and stroked her hair lovingly .. Slowly, her crying subsided to silent sobbing, then as she snuggled closer to her Father it quietened entirely, until she was in a deep, restful sleep.
Mike watched his Daughter for almost an hour, before he too fell asleep ..........
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