Landau

Tasha Yar, for me. Worf, as noted, always got his butt handed to him in most episodes despite being a Klingon. Odo would be cool, but you'd never know where or what he was which would be disconcerting. Haven't watched much Enterprise to know the pros and cons of Tucker. Tuvok would be my second choice, and Chekov... Chekov couldn't guard a fire. So that leaves dependable, reliable, slightly psychotic Tasha Yar. She'd also be the coolest to hang out with, in those brief downtime periods when you aren't possibly being killed.

((Morgue, Deck 576, Starbase 118)) ::Solok approached the Tellarite deliberately but with caution, as one ought always to approach Tellarites.:: Solok: Doctor. ::Fargit was standing atop a short stool, immersed -- quite literally -- in his work. He was poring over the innards of what seemed to be roughly 43% of a person, charred beyond visual recognition. His short snout occasionally pressed into what seemed like it must once have been a pelvis of some sort, but the coroner did not seem to mind. Death was his work, and he took his work seriously. Solok was not offended by that.:: Solok: Doctor Fargit. ::Fargit did not look up.:: Fargit: Hairline fracture, tertiary node, pelvis. Likely caused by traumatic impact with a large object. ::He stood slightly, his face now visible, his fatigue clear.:: Like a starship deck, or corridor wall, or bulkhead, or some such. Hnh. Cause of death ... ::He looked up, his eyes glinting somewhat, his gaze steadily meeting Solok's.:: .. what should it be, eh? Solok: I -- Fargit: I'd say blunt force trauma, but as you can see, ha, uh, this poor fellow is without a head. Immolation? Smoke inhalation? Tripped getting out of the sonic shower? It's anybody's guess, really. ::Solok looked grim. Solok always looked grim, but in the morgue, it was somehow both more fitting and more difficult to bear. That is, unless you were Fargit.:: Solok: I see. Fargit: Harrumph. ::It was a long moment before either man spoke again.:: Solok: Doctor -- Fargit: Computer, register cause of death for Case Number 453-F as "undetermined." ::The computer chirped acknowledgement.:: So many of 'em are undetermined. Takes the fun out of it, really. Solok: Doctor Fargit, I have come to assist with the autopsies. Fargit; Assist? Don't you mean "oversee"? ::Solok looked around the room. The bodies had been arranged neatly, and were clearly organized according to some principle Solok had yet to discern. The medical examiner's assistants, as well as other medical staff reassigned temporarily to the morgue, were making rapid and efficient progress. It was ... impressive.:: Solok: Oversight appears to be unnecessary. Fargit; Ha. A compliment. ::He paused, his nostrils flaring slightly.:: I think I'll be filing for a transfer. Solok: A transfer? Fargit: If you're going to be this rude, I'll definitely have to find somewhere else to work. ::He shuffled off toward another gurney, one of his Terran assistants following him with the stool.:: Solok: It was not my intention to give offense. Fargit: Exactly! ::Turning to his assistant, who made the stool ready, Fargit stepped up onto it. He was still a full foot shorter than Solok.:: Computer, open file Case Number 454-B. ::Laying on the gurney between them was the badly burned body of what appeared to have been a Terran female. Solok could not tell for certain by visual inspection alone.:: Solok: Doctor, I require some information. Do you yet know if any Flaxians were among the deceased? Fargit: Ha. Harrumph. Hnh. ::He fiddled with his tricorder.:: The body has been destroyed by fire. Or heat. It's the heat that kills you, anyway. Plasma burns? I don't know. Fifth and sixth degree burns over the whole body. Had to be near enough the explosion to get the full heat of the blast, but far enough away not to have been disassembled by the concussive force. Hm. Yep. The fire killed this one. Or the heat, anyway. Computer, register cause of death for Case Number 454-B as "immolation." I'd rather say "smoke inhalation," for the families. Sounds better. Probably hurts just the same, though. ::Solok didn't know if Fargit was talking about the deceased, or her family.:: Solok: Doctor -- ::His commbadge chirped.:: Udas: =/\= Udas to Doctor Solok and Lieutenant Matthews. Please report to the Security Office on Deck 1067. No time for updates now, but I need your expertise once we arrive. =/\= Solok: =/\= Understood. =/\= ::Solok closed the comm link, then made as if to depart the morgue.:: Fargit; No. ::Solok stopped.:: Solok: I do not understand, Doctor. Fargit: We did a DNA sweep when the bodies were first deposited in the morgue. Saves us a lot of time with identifications later, especially since anyone with a Starfleet history -- friend or foe -- is already in the system. We've got Andorians, and Klingons, and Tellarites, and humans -- a right mess of humans. Even a few Vulcans, I'm happy to report. ::He almost smiled.:: But nary a single Flaxian. ::The coroner turned back to his work. Solok paused, then spoke very carefully.:: Solok: You are almost certainly aware, Doctor, that you are essentially an aggregate of organic compounds wasted in their present form, masquerading as an incompetent excuse for a medical examiner, and Starfleet would be much improved by your absence. ::The Vulcan then turned and departed, headed the same way the Bynars had gone, minutes earlier.:: ::Fargit, for his part, smiled, then spoke under his breath.:: Fargit: Sweet-talker. === Lieutenant Commander Solok Acting Chief Medical Officer Starbase 118 Ops R237908S10

I'm in love with all of Solok's NPCs already, but I completely lost it at this.

Note, the forum ate the paragraphing so I had to re-space this myself, any errors in spacing are therefore most likely mine and not that of the original authors. (( Starbase 118 Promenade )) (Time index: just before the mission starts) :: It had been nearly three years since Chythar had roamed these halls. In fact, he hadn’t seen much of the base since it was attacked by metal-munching dragons, and pulling the then-Commander Livingston from an explosion’s aftermath and into sickbay. He didn’t recall the names of any stores or restaurants from his first tour of duty here as a medical officer, but then again he wasn’t here for a trip down memory lane. He was here to say hello to an old friend, and tapped his badge. :: Skyfire: =/\= Commander Skyfire to Commander Taybrim. ::Sal had been lounging in his office, slowly getting through the pile of paperwork on his desk in that way one processes things in the middle of shore leave. That ‘I’m here-but-not-really-here’ sort of mentality. He jumped when the call came through the commline. He hadn’t been expecting a call, at least not at this point, but curiously opened up the line to hear a very familiar voice.:: Taybrim: =/\=...CD?=/\= ::he sat up in his chair and punched in the information from the signal. This wasn’t subspace, this was localized.:: =/\= You’re here, on StarBase 118? =/\= :: He could almost hear the surprise in his brother’s voice, as he was at least a month early. The last letter showed he was on the Invicta. A lot can change in a month. :: Skyfire: =/\= In the flesh. Was going to grab a bite and thought you should join me, if your duties permitted. Taybrim: =/\= Why… yes! =/\= ::Technically he was on leave at least for another day or so. Working vacation is what Leo called it, but he was going to shortly exercise the vacation part of it:: =/\=I can wrap up what I’m doing and meet you.=/\= ::pause:: =/\= Any ideas where you want to head to? =/\= Skyfire: =/\= Not a one. Meet you on the promenade? Taybrim:::he chuckled:: =/\=Sure! =/\= ::a contemplative pause:: =/\= I suppose I probably know the shops better than you do, now. What are you in the mood for? =/\= Skyfire: =/\= Anything that looks vaguely pizza-like would be welcome. And brewski. Taybrim: =/\=... Brewski? =/\= ::Confusion filtered heavily through his voice:: =/\= Uhm… not sure if I know a store that sells that. But pizza I can handle. =/\= ::he rose, putting the paperwork aside and brushing off his uniform:: Skyfire: =/\= Beer. :: Pause. :: Remind me when you get here to explain Terran slang in greater depth. Taybrim=/\=: ::He paused just before exiting his office, boggling at the thought:: =/\= There’s more Terran slang?=/\= ::cough:: =/\=I have enough trouble just keeping up with Leo’s expressions! =/\= Skyfire: =/\= Righto. Meet you where, again? Taybrim: =/\= Right, right. I’ll meet you in the Promenade outside Buzz Johnson’s Ultimate Pie Shop. =/\= :: CD smirked as the line closed. Whether or not the commander’s duties permitted, he’d make the time just as they had done on the Excalibur during the early phases of Chythar’s incident with the mind meld. It wasn’t going to be as awesome as Stew Surprise, as he still had to make his appointment with the CMO and the security chief of the Columbia, but it’d be a chance for them to catch up. :: ~*~ ((Promenade - Buzz Johnson’s Ultimate Pie Shop - StarBase 118)) ::Buzz Johnson’s promised the most authentic Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza in a ten-light-year-radius. Sal Taybrim actually had zero experience with actual pizza in Chicago, Terra, however most of his staff had recommended the place and Sal himself was quite enthralled with the sauce-saturated pies that were so coated in cheese that you had to pull long strings of it off the dough and shove it into your mouth. It was one of those experiences that made him feel like a kid again. That and it boasted one hundred and twenty seven various microbrews on state of the art nitrogen-vaprozine line ensured to enhance your beer drinking experience to the utmost. The decor was smoky and vaguely seedy in a cartoonish manner, and their waitress was a blonde Risian with blonde curls all piled atop her head. She waited as the two men greeted one another before showing them to a table:: Taybrim: ::Grinning as he saw a familiar face in a familiar teal collar:: CD! Well, well, live and in the flesh. What brings you to my humble abode on StarBase 118? ::Moving forward to wrap his friend in a bear hug:: Skyfire: :: The doc returned the grin and the embrace, then ruffled Sal’s hair like a sibling would. :: Sal, Sal… :: and produced a PADD. :: A present for you so you call off the hunt. Stew Surprise. Just don’t let Vitor anywhere near it. :: He paused thoughtfully before he answered the second question. :: And a transfer to the Columbia. Taybrim: Excellent, excellent… ::And that last part processed through his brain:: What?! You’re headed to Columbia? I thought they had you roped down in the Garuda’s sickbay… or was that in Invicta? ::he couldn’t keep up with all the ships in the Menthar region:: Skyfire: :: nodded solemnly as he followed the waitress to the table. :: Garuda, then Invicta. Shortly after boarding the Invicta, I got a half-pip because Kells had to promote me before he was ordered to by Fleet Captain Egan Manno. As for why I was transferred: I suspect someone has a twisted sense of humor. :: The last time they saw one another in reality and not over subspace, CD was being transferred to the Garuda as their medical officer from the Excalibur. And now he was making a pass through the starbase on his way to yet another posting, on a different ship. He couldn’t explain the why part very well, other than someone with pips in the box had a desire to transfer him. He just didn’t know who it was. :: Taybrim: Wow. ::He nodded, processing it all:: The Columbia’s still a fine ship - I still miss it, even though Ops is home now. I’m sure you’ll feel at home there soon. :: Chythar nodded. He wished he could say the same about the Invicta, and after serving a year with the same crew he went through one counselor whom he actually liked, and started to feel for in a deeper way than just as a sister. A momentary frown passed over his features as he picked up the menu and had a look-see. :: Skyfire: I’ll miss them on the Invicta. Home will be wherever the med tape is. :: The joke seemed to be appropriate on his new audience -- he doubted Sal had heard that one before. :: Skyfire: I think what I’ll miss most about them is I actually stuck with one counselor through both ships. You know my luck with counselors. Taybrim: I do. ::he nodded his head, somewhat mournfully. Sal had left the Excalibur’s counseling department to take a stint on the Darwin. What a long strange trip that had been.:: I’m glad you found a few that stuck with you. ::a smile, before he directed the subject to an even brighter topic:: Ok, so one hundred and twenty seven microbrews… what’s your pleasure? Skyfire: :: He read over the menu briefly before his eyes settled on the Mack & Jack’s African Amber, his favorite of all of the microbrews from home. :: Mack & Jack’s. Taybrim: Mack and Jack’s it is! ::He ordered two and returned to find Skyfire perusing the menu:: So what bring you to my arm of the galaxy? ::he asked conversationally:: :: Chythar was staring at the menu and seemed to get so deeply lost in thought he didn’t hear the question. It took him a few moments to come back to reality as he set the menu aside. :: Skyfire: Hm? Taybrim: ::A lighthearted chuckle:: I asked what bring you to my arm of the galaxy? Seems you’ve had quite the changes since I saw you last. :: That...would take a bit of explaining. He didn’t have the answer on him, and his clearances had probably been revoked for the Invicta. :: Skyfire: Um...I’ll have to forward the relevant info on that once I get my clearances reset. I’ve had a few interesting… :: he snapped his fingers a few times as he fumbled for a word. :: ...moments since our last conversation. Both with regards to my abilities and time itself. Taybrim: ::He offered a slow nod:: You said you had some counseling? ::he prompted gently:: Skyfire: “Some” is probably a gross understatement, bro. More like lots. Mostly about… :: He hesitated for a moment. :: ...things. Mostly related to my abilities. :: He paused thoughtfully, as though trying to add more, but could not. :: Skyfire: ~My ratings have changed.~ Taybrim: ::A brow perked in surprise:: ~I can hear you clearly. I assume something beyond normal acclimatization went on?~ :: It wasn’t the first time he accidentally lapsed into telepathic contact with his brother of choice, his own brow furrowing and he swallowed hard. :: Skyfire: ~Last time we spoke about this, I was T2/E2. I’m now T4/E6. And mentally connected with Counselor Moonsong of the Invicta… Similarly to how I’m connected to you... ~ :: CD didn’t form additional thoughts, as though even his mind was fumbling for words on how to put it into something coherent. He expected there would be further questions. Though he couldn’t figure out what else he could add without showing Sal the test results and research that Saveron had done. :: Taybrim: ::he canted his head to one side. Partially because he rarely thought about telepathy in terms of ‘ratings’ and simply as something that ‘was’ or ‘was not.’ Then again Sal was born in a culture of telepaths, Skyfire was not.:: ~Did anything prompt that happening?~ Skyfire: ~I don’t know. First was the incident on DSX. Then there was a more recent incident on Astrofori One with Ris lashing out mentally as she looked for our companions. ~ Taybrim: ::He furrowed his brow and actually spoke out loud in his surprise:: I was unaware that counselor Moonsong was telepathic… ::He chewed his bottom lip a bit, considering it all. Sal rarely used his telepathy anymore, unless he was in contact with other telepaths. After he had seared his body with enough electricity to cook an unlucky person, telepathy was a dangerous liability rather than a strength. He had opted, early on in his recovery to focus on what he felt would serve him best and chose the constant, comforting feedback of empathy over telepathy. Meanwhile it seemed the Invicta was producing telepaths left, right and center. There was a small part of him that struggled with a fierce pang of jealousy - or if not jealousy at the very least anger at the inequity of the matter. He swallowed that with a well-timed gulp of beer. It was good beer.:: :: How the hell did one sum up the events of what happened over a single glass of beer with no pizza to eat? He didn’t know, and without his documented progression on what happened, he couldn’t answer that in any reasonable fashion. At least, he didn’t think so. Instead, he had a sip of his drink and attempted to encapsulate the essence into a few words. :: Skyfire: Counselor Moonsong played host to some ambassadors of the Community. After they returned to their collective, she was left… :: He bit his lip and hesitated for a word. :: ...altered. Is now I think the most powerful telepath on the Invicta. ::Sal couldn’t help but perk a brow at this. In his travels from ship to ship he had heard many similar stories. The crew of Starbase 118 had at one point been possessed by elemental forces far before Handley-Page took command. Officers had fought insane holograms in a fantasy land. Officers had been kidnapped and experimented upon by alien intelligences, or possessed, or traveled through time. Meanwhile Sal had slogged through political manipulations versus Romulans, dragged idiot engineers away from burning buildings, dealt with more Romulan politics and machinations. And more Romulans. And saving an idiot tactical officer from a court martial. And even more Romulans. He was starting to feel like the Romulans were the stable (if irritatingly manipulative and violent) element in the galaxy. And for the record he was quite fond of both idiots. But there were a growing number of officers who solidly ‘owed him one’ in the fleet.:: Taybrim: I see. ::he didn’t, but he said it anyways:: Sounds like it has been a long strange trip. ::leaning forward:: But that still doesn’t answer why you jumped the strange trip and are in my neck of the woods. ::he grinned:: ::And was that pizza they smelled? Not a moment too soon! One massive pie dripping with cheese and toppings was delivered to the table:: :: He could’ve sworn he answered that as he got himself a slice of pizza and mused over the riddle. What was he doing here? Was he requested? Was he just here to deliver the recipe? Nah, if he was just here to deliver the recipe then his orders would’ve said “Starbase 118,” not “USS Columbia.” He bit into his slice of pizza and chewed quietly for several moments. Once he’d swallowed the mouthful, gave an answer. :: Skyfire: I honestly have no idea. Like I said, someone in the Brass has a sense of humor, and they think transferring me is funny. Taybrim: ~I could probably look that up for you… if you really wanted to know.~ ::A shrug, he swallowed his mouthful of pizza and actually spoke the next thought:: Maybe MacLaren wanted to see you again? Skyfire: :: nodded slowly and had another sip of beer. :: I knew she’d been reinstated after being comatose from the suicide bomb thing on Argurtha, but I don’t know if she requested me specifically. Taybrim: You were close ::he waved a hand in the air:: I know she was released from here some months ago and placed on the Columbia with probably who she considered ‘the good old gang’ ::Well, truth be told they were a good old gang. They used to be Sal’s gang as much as MacLaren’s, even if he had never actually served with her. Like a few others, Sal seemed to be the sort that always ‘just missed’ serving with some crew.:: :: Interesting, but not altogether unexpected. And for now, it seemed like a good point in time to just muse quietly over his pizza until he had something else he wanted to ask. A few bites later produced another question. :: Skyfire: ~So, about my connection with Raissa. There’s something else I feel I should tell you.~ Taybrim: ::he took another slug of beer to prepare himself:: ~What’s up?~ Skyfire: :: had another sip of beer before he continued. This was hard for him, mostly because he didn’t know how to explain it. :: ~Because of my connection to her, I can physically touch her and not be at risk of having my mind nuked.~ Taybrim: ~I was unaware of the touch-prompting-mindsplosion part...~ ::he admitted with a furrowed brow.:: ~It sounds like you two were close.~ Skyfire: :: broke eye contact and stared at his pizza. :: ~I comforted her after her breakup with Carter. Gave her a hug. I’m apparently the only one capable of doing that without fear of injury.~ :: He paused and tried to finish the rest as he had another bite. :: ~She’s more than a sister to me, Sal.~ Taybrim: ::He canted his head a bit, indulging in another bite of pizza to give him enough time to digest his thoughts:: ~Did you want to stay with her?~ :: He managed a weak nod and continued to eat his pizza, gradually starting to lose his appetite as the pain of recent memories started to fill his mind. Despite his shields, a bit of sadness slipped through their connection. :: Skyfire: ~I did…~ :: He had another swig of beer and just stared at the plate, blinking back the tears of loss. :: Taybrim: You could have petitioned Starfleet for different placement - closer or in a different department. ::he offered quietly:: I can help you get that paperwork through. ::A small smile:: tricks I learned as a diplomat. :: He should have at least felt something with those words. There didn’t seem to be any point in arguing with the Brass’ decision to place him aboard the Columbia. He closed his eyes and forced himself to finish the slice of pizza he had in front of him, not sure what to say in response. He felt nothing. :: ::Sal sighed and the counselor part of his brain turned on, trying a different tact. If rationality wasn’t working, try sympathy, Sal.:: Taybrim: Transfers suck. They always suck and I’m sorry you’re moving again. But I hope the Columbia is a good of a move for you as it was for me. :: A wave of bitterness washed over Chythar as another thought entered his mind unbidden. He knew transfers sucked, as his previous scorecard on the Excalibur had shown. Oddly enough, for the Garuda and Invicta tour, he had one counselor for both ships. :: Skyfire: ~Another ship, another counselor to break….Ris didn’t break….~ Taybrim: ~Columbia’s a good strong ship, with good strong people - many who are your friends and who will be thrilled to see you again.~ :: That reassurance seemed to ease the bitterness that had overtaken the doc’s mind, though it was still somehow lacking in some aspect. He reached for another slice of pizza, despite his diminished appetite, and was going to eat it in order to survive the next forty eight hours of transferring ships. Again. :: Skyfire: ~Some of the people on that ship I think I helped train, too…~ :: Out of context, that probably could have been a non-sequitur. Though it seemed apt to mention at this point since they were talking about the crew. :: Taybrim: ~Then they will be especially glad to see you.~ ::Sal was the sort of person who believed that everything, in general, worked out alright in the end. Actually, his last two transfers had not sucked at all. They had been quite good - he had met good people, his career was upwardly mobile and he quite liked his position on StarBase 118 and the crew around him. He just kept that to himself, instead allowing the peaceful aura of ‘things become ok’ radiate from his mind.:: :: Chythar nodded faintly and helped himself to another bite, this time taking a long swig of the brewski and draining its contents. Alcohol probably wouldn’t help his mood, but at least it made him feel a bit better. :: Skyfire: ~Right. I’ll try to keep that in mind.~ Taybrim: ::He grabbed another slice of pizza and ordered two more beers:: So how is Devlin doing? :: The little canine wasn’t with him at the moment, as he was being watched by a friend. He blinked a few times and tried to form words as he took another bite of pizza. :: Skyfire: Sad we had to leave. He was taking quite a liking to Lt. DeVeau. I have a friend watching him at the moment. Taybrim: He must be getting pretty big. Skyfire: Last I checked, he was 15 pounds of adorable beagle. Taybrim:All the better to charm people with, my dear. ::A chuckle:: :: The doc let an eyebrow raise in mild amusement, which was an improvement over his earlier mood. He took another swig of beer as it arrived on the table. :: Skyfire: Meaning? Taybrim: ::blink blink:: Meaning people, in general, like dogs - especially when they are cute and cuddly? :: CD mulled that one over as he helped himself to another bite of pizza, despite not really being hungry now. He hated transfers. And was running out of things to say about the adorable puppy. :: Skyfire: He talks to me, sort of. Has trouble with “a”s unless they’re in the middle of a word. Taybrim: Talks? ::browperk, curious:: Skyfire oO [...]. Forgot to tell him this. Oo :: He had another sip of his drink before he continued. :: Skyfire: Shortly after my incident on DSX, I was still a T2/E2 but for some reason could communicate telepathically with Devlin. I have no idea why that is. Taybrim: Strange. ::he murmured. On his homeworld he had only communicated with other people, never the animals.:: How does a dog … talk? :: Good question. He never had to describe it to anyone else so he wasn’t sure for a moment and mulled through the answer over a bite of pizza. :: Skyfire: Simple words. He understands the basics: food, play, walkies, Master. :: He gave a thoughtful pause. :: And Lora. That’s the nickname he assigned to Lt. Alora DeVeau, apparently. Taybrim: Fascinating. ::he leaned back, thinking about the whole affair:: It’s been a long time since I’ve heard of such a fascinating interplay of telepathic development. :: That caused the doc’s Irish brogue to appear into his speech pattern, though he didn’t lapse into Gaelic. Apparently some mention of interplayed telepathic development rubbed him a little. :: Skyfire: Don’t get me started, laddie. Taybrim: Ok ::chuckle:: then you pick the topic of conversation! :: Skyfire chuckled in response and finished his second slice before he replied. :: Skyfire: How are things on the starbase? Taybrim: We’re in what you could call the ‘calm between storms’ ::he leaned back a bit:: After weathering riots, a crash and some terrorist threats we could use the calm, too. Skyfire: That...doesn’t sound like fun, for some reason. :: It wasn’t fun-sounding in any event. Fun was walking along the holodeck beach with Devlin and a game of frisbee during shore leave, not but that was his opinion. He seriously wanted Devlin and Sal to meet sometime, but it wouldn’t happen any time in the near future. Transfers being fluid and all, he barely had enough time to get Devlin squared away for this impromptu meeting. :: Taybrim: Well, anything that puts people in danger isn’t fun. ::he admitted:: I don’t like seeing the people around me and the people I’m responsible for get hurt. But in the downtimes there’s been fun. Camaraderie. I like this crew, they’re good people. :: CD could relate. He nodded grimly, and remembered the painful moments in which he was either extracting shrapnel, Trill symbiont, or burnt flesh from various Starfleet uniforms. Those thoughts were quickly suppressed as he took another swig of beer. :: Skyfire: No fun seeing people go to Sickbay either. Taybrim: I suppose not. ::he nodded. Never having been a doctor, he was usually the one at the other end, sending people to sickbay:: Which is why I’m glad it’s a calm time. All the better for rest, recuperation and pizza. :: Chythar chuckled softly. If there was one thing Sal was good at, it was lightening the mood with a little light-hearted mention of their present meeting. Whether it was pizza, or Stew Surprise, sans faeries, of course. :: Skyfire: Speaking of rest and fun...I just completed my first training class since getting promoted. :: Thoughtful pause. :: As the CO. You can keep your red-shirt. I’ll be in the teal, patching you up if you happen to get blown up in the line of duty. :: he replied with a wink. :: Taybrim: ::He chuckled:: Hey, I like the red shirt. ::A bit smugly:: I think it looks good on me. ::beat:: just like you look good in teal. :: Chythar nodded and leaned back in his chair, allowing himself to relax a little. He didn’t realize how much tension he’d built up in the last few minutes, and the emotional toll started to cause him to zone out a bit. For a few long moments, he said nothing until Taybrim spoke again. :: Taybrim: Well, seeing as we only have a limited time to spend together I think we should live it up tonight. What’s the most fun thing you can think of - and we’ll do it. Revel in the moment ::he grinned widely, feeling the effects of the tasty beer hit him.:: :: “Live it up” was a phrase that he hadn’t heard in a long time. He tried hard to think of some of his favorite holonovels or movies to watch, and was coming up with a blank. His transfer had apparently scrambled his sense of fun, and most of his movie titles were stored in a computer somewhere. :: Skyfire: You always said you wanted to take me to Risa. Any favorite Risian holoprograms you have? Taybrim: ::A wide grin:: Of course I have a favorite. Do you prefer lounging around in hot springs or windsurfing? Skyfire: Never tried windsurfing. Willing to give it a shot. :: He smiled at his brother. :: Teach me, oh wise sensei. :: and purely by accident let a Japanese word escape his lips. :: oO [...]. Oo Taybrim: Well, finish your pizza, we’ll lounge and let the food digest while I go through the basics and then enjoy the surf of Risa! ::he grinned, quite liking this idea. A good way to relax for a night:: :: Skyfire finished up the second glass, contemplating taking the rest of the pizza home for dinner since he kind of lost his appetite. :: Taybrim: ::Leftovers packaged up, Sal stretched and smiled:: Nothing like Risa at sundown. Skyfire: Windsurfing at sunset. Sounds great! :: he finished the slice of pizza in front of him and nodded his readiness to head off. :: END === Lieutenant Commander Chythar Skyfire Medical Officer USS Columbia, NCC-85279 History Team Co-Facilitator Medical Duty Post Facilitator Dear Doc Columnist O239002CS0 & Lt Commander Sal Taybrim Executive Officer StarBase 118 Ops

Oh, come onnn.. It might not have been *intentional*, but it was bloody hilarious.

:D Page's quote having no context makes it even better.

- Sabina Tiam.

I don't think we ever met IC, but I remember the name. I was (and will soon be again!) Lucien Landau, over on the Indy-A/Tiger.

My parents were never really into sci-fi/fantasy stuff, so I never watched Dr. Who or any of the old Trek or the original BSG. Quite how I ended up such a rampant nerd is puzzling... My first introduction to actually watching Star Trek, rather than just being dimly aware that it was a thing that existed and basically what happened in it, was Voyager during a re-run when we got satellite television in the early 00s. I remember thinking "oh, this is that Star Trek thing" and being confused as to why Kirk and Spock etc weren't in it - I'd heard so much about them, I hadn't realised that there were OTHER Star Trek shows with different sets of characters. After a few episodes though, the Voyager cast won me over and it became a show that I 'watched' as opposed to a show that was on. Then I discovered DS9, and fell in love completely. But it started with Voyager. To this day, I've still not watched a full TOS episode, though I am familiar with a lot of TNG.

Welcome to the fleet, folks! And welcome back Lieutenant Valdivia, unless I'm mistaken?

Especially coming a scant three lines after a comment about Velana being 'the one that got away'. ¬_¬

It might be worth having a separate "SB118 Canon" bio for each faction, that can be linked to from each species page involved with the faction (and other relevant places), but kept separate from all the actual canon information. So on the Romulan faction, for instance, you'd have the sidebar with History, ILI: Romulans, ILI, Remans and then at the bottom a 'SB118 Timeline' page. Then each ship could appoint an officer to be in charge of keeping those SB118 Timeline pages of the wiki updated with the events of each mission as pertains to that faction, and what important facts were 'learned' about them. So when you finish a mission, one member of the crew (or several) would write a brief concise report of what happened involving them during that mission. Etc. Then everyone could check that page before a mission involving that faction to keep updated with the latest happenings and make sure they stay consistent.

Welcome. Hope you enjoy the fleet, wherever you end up!

Welcome guys. The journey begins here!

Congrats all, well deserved from what I've managed to catch up on!

::Whispers:: I think our Science chief may have a problem... Just like that, in the conference room, *during a briefing*? You have *staff* for that now too?! If you guys start driving around in an old RV and Velana starts ending every sentence with "B***!", I'm callin' the cops.

(( Docking Port 7 – Deep Space 6 )) ::He thanked every star in the quadrant that he was good at forcing his mind to stay focused. For such a large transport ship, it seemed that every single common area was a proverbial madhouse. Then again, he hadn’t spent much time outside of the interior of Federation space, so the more... lively races were still somewhat new to him. He didn’t spend a great deal of time interacting, however. He was now a Starfleet officer, and he had a job to do – namely, that of familiarizing himself as much as possible with the tactical systems and security posture of his new assignment, the USS Darwin. He went into the assignment process knowing full well that he could get anything the fleet had to offer. He was surprised, very pleasantly, to receive orders to a state of the art science vessel. Science ran in his veins and in his family. As a Trill, that was the subject his race was known for above all else. Of course, if there was one person to rain on his parade, it was his mother. He couldn’t help but ruminate on their last conversation before departing Starbase 118.:: (( Flashback – Crew Quarters, Starbase 118 )) ::He didn’t let the conversation deter him from packing what few belongings he had brought along from Earth. His transport was due to leave, and the last thing he needed was to miss it. Of course, it was also an excuse to not look at the monitor, as even across light years and over a subspace comm channel, his mother, Marika Tiro, inspired his ire in a way no one else could. Except for maybe that Orion hologram on his final...:: Loren: Mother, we’ve been over this a thousand times. I am doing what I want to do. Just because I’m not firing myself out of a torpedo tube toward Trill doesn’t mean I’m abandoning my race. Besides, you’re joined! You of all people should know that being joined isn’t for everyone. It’s not for me. ::Marika was a joined trill, the sixth host for the Tiro symbiont. And she never let him forget it.:: Marika: Toja, I just want you to live up to your potential! Who knows what you could accomplish if you had five lifetimes of knowledge and memories at your disposal. ::This was a conversation they’d had time and time again after he left their home on Betazed for Starfleet Academy. She was unhappy enough about that decision. When she learned that he was majoring in Military Studies, she nearly strangled him through subspace.:: Loren: Who knows what you might come to understand about me if you bothered to listen to the five lifetimes of memories you flaunt so often. I’m not a scientist, and I never will be, unless something very, very strange happens. And I will not apologize for that. I've been assigned to the USS Darwin as a tactical officer. ::He could hear her roll her eyes over the comm channel.:: Marika: Wonderful. My eldest son is gallivanting around the galaxy looking for battle. I didn’t realize I’d raised a Klingon with spots. At least your sister is doing something worthwhile. ::His face visibly contorted in confusion that then shifted into recognition of absurdity.:: Loren: Do you even hear yourself right now? Looking for battle? Starfleet’s mission, before all else, is to seek out new life, to go boldly where no one has gone before. If my role in that mission, that I believe in wholeheartedly, is to protect the lives of my crewmates, or the lives of races we have yet to even encounter, I can’t think of any better purpose for which to live my life. Marika: Toja, just listen to me! I... ::He was finished with this conversation. He had worked long and hard to develop some semblance of patience, and she was trying it, as usual.:: Loren: This conversation is over. Please give father my best. I hope that he is more supportive of my goals and accomplishments, though I suspect he will be. He always was. Say hello to Anzi for me. Good bye. ::Before she could even respond, he terminated the subspace link with a press of a button that was probably more forceful than it needed to be. He didn’t have time to stand there and fume, so he finished packing, and departed for the transport.:: (( Docking Port 7 – Deep Space 6 )) ::He was brought back to the present with an announcement over the transport’s comm system. Docking in five minutes. He looked around him, and gathered up all of the cluttered PADDs he’d left strewn about his little warren on the transport, and made sure that everything was packed. When he stepped off the ship, it was like trading one madhouse for another. He stood there for a moment, letting the throngs of people swarm around him and pass by, like a big rock in the middle of a river. He tried to push the remnants of his little chat with his mother out of his mind. The last thing he needed was to look like he was ready to go ten rounds with a targ while reporting to his new commanding officer.:: Baker: MISTER LOREN! ::He blinked once, turning his head this way and that, trying to locate the voice that called his name. He didn’t expect to see any familiar faces, but someone obviously knew him. It was the flailing hand that gave him the hint that he needed, though he was a bit surprised at the face that greeted him. He tried to weave his way through the bustle, though it was slow going.:: Loren: Lieutenant Baker? I wasn’t aware you were destined for Deep Space 6. Might have made the transport a little less hectic. It’s good to see you here, sir. Baker: Likewise. Fancy meeting you here, Ensign. Loren: What brings you to this sector of space? Your new assignment, I gather? Baker: Well, if I can get through this mess of humanoid flotsam, it’s my first deep space assignment in years. The Darwin. Loren: The Darwin? That’s my posting, as well. Tactical officer. Though I understand I’ll also be functioning as a security officer. Seems to be more common than I was aware of, though I’m certainly not complaining. I understand she’s a beautiful ship. State of the art... and I, for one, am happy to be exploring the galaxy. ::He seemed quite proud of that, in fact. After all, it did fit quite well with Toja’s particular interests and experiences. The fact that he got a smile in return bode well – never bad to have at least one acquaintance on board.:: Baker: Hey, congratulations. Small galaxy, eh? ::He noted that Baker seemed just as perplexed about this station as he was, though he obviously didn’t show it as much, as he got put on “point.”:: Baker: I’ll let you lead the way Ensign, and feel free to put those Academy muscles to the utmost potential to get us through here. ::He couldn’t help but chuckle, nodding his head slightly.:: Loren: Aye, sir. ::Toja at least remembered at which docking port the Darwin could be found, and that was as good a clue as any. Getting through all of these people was trying enough, but with three duffel bags and a recurve bow, it was all the better. He was as wide as a freighter, and most people didn’t seem too keen on trying to give him the room he needed. His height gave him a bit of an advantage though, and eventually, they found the right docking port. The security officer on duty seemed to be expecting newcomers.:: Loren: Ensign Toja Loren, request permission to come aboard. Baker: Lieutenant Nathan Baker, request permission to come aboard. Security Officer: Permission granted. Welcome to the USS Darwin, gentlemen. You’re newly assigned to the Darwin? ::Toja nodded once.:: Loren: We are, sir. Security Officer: Well then, congratulations on your new posting. Proceed to the bridge and report to the Captain. Glad to have you with us. ::Even being on the low end of the officer structure, it was nice to finally no longer be a cadet. He was treated like a person, now, which was a welcome change from Academy living.:: Loren: Yes, sir. ::After a glance at Baker, wherein he didn’t even try to hide his excited smile, they ventured forth into what he was more than happy to call his new home.:: (( Bridge – USS Darwin-A )) ::Even just the brief stroll through a corridor to a turbolift had him almost lightheaded with anticipation. Sure, it wasn’t the flagship. It wasn’t destined to patrol the borders of Federation space, defending against attacks. It wouldn’t be Starfleet if that’s all that was ever done. A state of the art exploration vessel was the heart of Starfleet, and his words to his mother echoed in his mind. He squared his shoulders, stepping off onto the bridge. He minded his own for now, returning the bridge crew’s inquisitive glances with a polite nod. Before long, he found himself at the door to the Captain’s ready room.:: Reinard: I’m free, come on in and take a seat. ::He stepped in, and took a moment to set his bags down with some semblance of order. He remained standing, until Commander Reinard offered otherwise.:: Baker: Thank you, Captain. Loren: Thank you, sir. ::He settled into the offered chair, back straight. Definitely fresh from the Academy.:: Reinard: Welcome aboard to both of you! Let me see those transfer papers. How was your journey here? ::He reached over to his smallest duffel bag, and thumbed through a stack of PADDs until he found the one he needed. At least he had the sense to keep them in order. He handed it to the Captain, resuming his previous posture.:: Baker: Do the words “Catullan hippie chants” mean anything to you, sir? If so, imagine that for the better part of nine hours. My head is splitting. But, that being said, I’m happy to be here. ::Toja’s face shifted a little, into an almost bemused smirk. It seems he suffered the same fate.:: Loren: It was... difficult to focus, Captain. I’m glad to finally be here. Reinard: How do you feel about being assigned to this ship? ::That question once again conjured echoes of his mother’s protests. He didn’t want to sound cliché for a new Academy graduate, but he spoke his mind.:: Loren: I couldn’t have asked for a better assignment, sir. Exploring the unknown is Starfleet’s most important mission. I’m glad to be out in front. oO Just don't ask my mother for HER opinion. Oo Baker: Quite happy to be here Captain. Can’t wait to get back to it; it’ll be like riding a bike I imagine. ::Toja took a moment to study the Captain, his facial expressions, nonverbal responses to what he and Baker were saying.:: Reinard: I’m sure you’ll both settle in fine and enjoy it here. Get your quarters assignments from ops and I’ll see you shortly as I’ll be calling a meeting of senior staff. Bye for now. Baker: Thank you Captain. Loren: Aye, sir. ::He rose from his seat, and made quick work of collecting his belongings, and departed with Baker. He hoped his first impression was a good one. He still felt rather awkward in social situations, but his final exam at Starbase 118 had done a bit to help loosen him up. A hand at his back caught his attention.:: Baker: Well done Ensign, you made a good first impression. Loren: I hope so, Lieutenant. Surprised no one asked me about my bow. I was going to get something to eat, would you like to join me? Baker: You go ahead. I’ve got a date with the warp core, but I’m sure I’ll catch ya later. Loren: Understood, sir. Have a good day. Baker: Take it easy. ::He stepped onto the turbolift and pondered his destination. He knew where the crew quarters were on the ship.:: Loren: Deck eight. (( Deck 8 - USS Darwin-A )) ::The turbolift started on its way, which was a very short trip. Only when the doors opened did he realize he missed something rather important. He set down one of his bags, and tapped his commbadge.:: Loren: =/\= Ensign Loren to bridge. =/\= ::The voice on the other end was female. Seemed friendly enough.:: James: Go ahead. ::His self-amusement was evident in his voice.:: Loren: I seem to have misplaced my quarters. ::There was a momentary pause where he almost knew he was being smirked at.:: James: Deck nine, section three, compartment seven. Welcome aboard, Ensign. ::At least she was efficient about it.:: Loren: Thank you. Loren out. oO That could have gone worse. Oo ::He doubled back to the turbolift, and made his way to the proper deck. Then he trekked along the corridor until he found it. He knew that junior officers’ quarters were dual-occupancy, but no one else seemed to be home. He stepped into his bedroom, and let his bags hit the floor. Empty, save for the standard furniture emplacements. But it was his, and that’s what mattered. He set his bow on the table. He’d have to find a suitable mount for it when he’s not using it. He’s glad no one remarked oddly on it. Hard to explain these things. He almost started drooling when he caught sight of the replicator. Better eat while he had time. Something hearty, that’d last him a while.:: Loren: Computer, beef barley stew. ::He might be a Trill, but there were certain tastes he picked up at the Academy that’d stick with him for life.:: TBC ---------- Ensign Toja Loren Security/Tactical Officer USS Darwin-A - NCC-99312

Welcome back deMarc! And T'Pen (if you're the same T'Pen from the Ronin way back when!). And welcome to the fleet Danara. Oh, and congrats to Lt. James on his first training class as FO.

Woo, lots of new ensigns. Great to have you aboard. Especially Frank, fellow chat-hanger-outer-in.

Nooo, Mirror Universe LHP!

Aurora/Alora/Anora, Velana/Jalana, four people with the surname James, LaVeux/Deveau/Dubeau... administrating this lot must be a nightmare.

Yay. Another James. Just what the fleet needed! In all seriousness, congrats! Welcome to the group, guys. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do (but hope you leave less frequently )!

Cheers guys, as always. Hopefully I can stick around a bit longer this time!

((T’Mar’s Quarters, USS Apollo)) ::As the Betazoid man moved into her quarters, he smiled slightly. He took his seat on the floor and looked toward her as she lit the candles. He could almost sense the emotions in her raging like a summer storm. There was something much different about her than standard issue Vulcans. It was almost as if there was a [...] holding back everything, but it was leaking. He was not sure about how she was able to suppress her emotions as well as those from others around her. Being a Vulcan with empathic abilities, no matter how small, was a difficult thing to imagine.:: ::T’Mar lit her candles then sat down across from Zage. She looked at him in the eye, wondering why he was so willing to help her. She was thankful, but at the same time worried. When she was around him, her emotions were harder to suppress. She could only hope that these lessons would help her control that.:: T’Mar: Where shall we begin? Bolani: Close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. T’Mar: ::Raising an eyebrow:: Alright.. ::Immediately, she closed her eyes and straightened her back, her hands in her lap and her shoulders back. It was a position she often was in when she meditated throughout the day. She began breathing in deeply through her nose, her chest rising, she held it for a moment then breathing out through her nose. As she relaxed, she let her wall drop that attempted to block out others’ emotions. For a moment she thought she sensed attraction from Zage, but she tossed it aside, figuring she was sensing someone else.:: ::As she closed her eyes, Zage glanced at her demeanor. He wanted to look for physical signs of stress and tension. Occasionally, he would catch himself admiring her features. It was something he would not dare be caught doing. As she drew her breaths one by one, he watched as she started to center. Closing his eyes, he began projecting a sense of calm as best as he could. His empathic abilities were good, but far from strong. He wondered if she was able to sense his feelings.:: Bolani: Are you able sense where your feelings start, and where mine begin? T’Mar: I.. ::She hesitated, afraid to prod and sense Zage’s feelings. She decided to just let it all go for the moment. It was not logical, of course, but an empathic Vulcan was biologically not logical! She stopped forcing the suppression her own emotions, which allowed her to sense Zage’s as well. With her mental walls down, she now had a better focus the feelings that she sensed from others. She found it almost exhilarating for a moment:: T’Mar: Yes. I do! ::With his eyes closed he listened intently. Until now, he was not sure how much of her feelings she allowed to surface. She was an odd creature to watch while on duty. Some moments we was as Vulcan as Vulcan could be. In other moments, her emotions were like a ray of sunshine barely shining through the clouds.:: Bolani: Tell me what you can decipher. T’Mar: Well.. I sense that my behaviour confuses you and.. ::She focused and once again sensed feelings of lust, which amused her:: nevermind. ::Suddenly T’Mar was afraid. She had never been so open with her feelings. She felt herself wanting to suppress her own emotions again. It had been so long since she had fully acknowledged her own feelings. She opened her eyes and looked at Zage.:: You will keep all of this private, correct? Bolani: ::smiling:: Of course. What happens behind the walls of this room will remain in this room. ::He thought for a moment about their location. If she were Human, or any other species it might have sounded like he was hitting on her, but given the situation it was a completely benign comment. Keeping their interactions private was his top priority. In the end, it would only help her develop things. At some point if she no longer wanted to sense the emotions of others, he could teach her to drown it out. At the same time, he could teach her to really be in tune with what is going on around her.:: T’Mar: I know. Thank you. I just.. I do not feel comfortable showing emotions around others. It’s not logical... but I know that this is necessary. ::For a moment, she wanted to hold his hand. She yearned for comfort. She then thought about the Vulcan she had been bonded with as a child. She never spoke of him, because she barely remembered him. He was a scientist and the last she had heard, he was on a ship studying dark matter. He would never comfort her. He would never understand what it is like to struggle with emotions. They should have been married by now, but neither one of them had been able to make it to a ceremony due to their duties. As far as she was concerned, she would never marry the cold man.:: ::Then she thought of Zage. He understood empathy and feelings in general. Perhaps, though, he didn’t fully understand her Vulcan side..:: ::Zage could sense her discomfort. It was akin to the feeling one would get doing anything for the first time. He remembered the first time he went skiing. He was so worried he would fall in the snow and tumble down the hill. He recalled how awkward he felt, but it did not last very long. Sure he fell from time to time, but he was able to get right back up. By the time he was done with his first trip, he could not wait to go back and do it again. After years of skiing, he was pretty good at it. Most things in life were like that. Bolani: Good. Now, broaden your focus to reach out into the corridor. Anyone out there walking by? Do you sense anything? ::T’Mar broadened her focus and was overwhelmed with many emotions belonging to many people in the surrounding quarters. She found it hard to distinguish at first, but she forced herself to focus on the corridor.:: T’Mar: I sense someone.. they are stressed, worried about something. Bolani: Now, very quickly, focus on yourself. What are you feeling right now? ::It was a simple question. She needed to be able to quickly distinguish between the feelings of others and her own. Betazoids had a the gift to project emotions, and the burden of allowing the emotions of others affect them. He was wondering how she would be as she progressed. Vulcans and Betazoids are the polar opposites. He had no idea how someone in her family managed to procreate with a Betazoid. Of all the ways they were incompatible, it was odd and intriguing at the same time.:: ::T’Mar tried to determine how she was feeling, but it went against everything she was taught. She wasn’t supposed to have emotions. Was she worried or was that the person in the corridor?:: T’Mar: I am uncertain how to answer. Why must I sense my own emotions? Should we not be focusing on others’? Bolani: The more you focus the better reception you will get this early in your development. It is also important that you try to switch back to your own emotions, such as they are, as often as possible. This will help prevent you from sharing in the emotions of others. Think of it like being out of your body. The longer you are, the easier it will be to become involved in others. Focusing on yourself is a way to center yourself. ::Most species would be able to do this easily. Because Vulcans suppressed their emotions, it would be harder for her. She would have to embrace her own emotions and it would oddly go against what she did on a daily basis. It would take a toll on her throughout the day. Headaches would come, and she would have bouts of confusion and maybe even dizziness. There was not a lot of information on the Vulcan/Betazoid mix. With each one, it would likely be different. He was very curious how it would work for her.:: ::T’Mar closed her eyes tightly and concentrated on herself, battling against her natural suppression. She had tried to drop that mental wall earlier, but subconsciously she had put it back up.. she put it back up because she had begun to feel emotions for her self.. and that had..:: T’Mar: Fear? ::She did not want to say it. Of all emotions, she always found fear to be the most illogical besides love. It was less that she has sensed it in herself, but more a logical conclusion. It seemed that she did not have much control over when she could sense and feel her own emotions and when they remained suppressed.:: Bolani: Fear of what? ::Zage could imagine what she was going through. It would be like asking Betazoids to stop sensing other feelings, or to only communicate verbally. It went against everything he was brought up to do, but it was necessary. He was surprised it was not done sooner in her life. She was fairly young for a Vulcan. The better handle she had on her abilities to sense other emotions, the better she would be able to suppress hers as well as those sensed, if that is what she chose to do. It was just...logical.:: T’Mar: I believe I am afraid of feeling... ::The room seemed to spin momentarily, but soon returned to normal. She blinked a few times to clear her eyes and her stomach churned a little.: ..of feeling emotions. Bolani: Are you alright? ::The look on her face already answered the question. It was quite a bit for someone to deal with that had not faced their own emotions. Now, he was asking her to face the emotions of others, as well as her own. It was a big step and he wanted to know what she was capable of for their first session. She could stop at any time, they could take it slow...but he wanted to understand how much she would push herself, even more so since she admitted her fear.:: T’Mar: I am fine. oOPerhaps pride is another emotion to add on that list?Oo Bolani: As long as you are certain. I know it is a lot and do not want you overdoing it. ::T’Mar took a deep breath:: T’Mar: I was a little dizzy, but I assure you that I am quite alright now. Please continue. ::The truth was, the only feeling she was certain of, was that she enjoyed Zage’s presence. It made her feel.. happy? No, content. She did not want him to leave.:: Bolani: Very well. Take that fear, and suppress it as you normally would and tell me how I am feeling. ::In that moment, he focused on his final days on the Crawford. It was not a happy point in his career, and when he got word...it did not please him. The more he thought of it, the more he was able to relive those feelings he felt as he left. It was a combination of anger and sadness. He had formed bonds with those he worked with and was not looking forward to leaving.:: ::T'Mar suppressed her emotions and focused in Zage, this time envisioning it as a mind meld without physical contact. She felt...:: T'Mar: Anger. You are angry. ::She wondered what was making him feel enraged, but at the same time felt proud of herself for picking up on the emotion:: Bolani: Very good. ::Fast forwarding to his arrival on the Apollo, he thought of when he got his reassignment orders at the starbase. While he was not excited to leave the Crawford, he accepted it. When he found out he got the Apollo, he was actually excited to serve on the Achilles Class ship. It brought a sense of pride and happiness.:: ::The anger melted away and new sensations overtook her. She was beginning to get the hang of this.:: T'Mar: Joy? Bolani: Good. ::Before he could move on to the next question he continued on his train of thought, remembering the first time he thought he saw the corner of her mouth start to form a smile, and the moment his eyes traced over her features. He quickly realized that she was still focusing on him and his memories were betraying his purpose in her quarters. He found the Vulcan woman attractive, but he was not sure he would ever act on it. She was so different, and even though he was intrigued, they could be described as oil and water. He was curious how her grandparents did it. Even though he liked spending time with her and loved to see her struggle with the emotions of others, his initial instinct was attraction. There was something in her eyes that he had never seen in a Vulcan and it made it easier to forget that in the end...she was.:: ::T’Mar was surprised by how quickly she was able to feel what Zage felt. She could only assume he was projecting the emotions stronger in order to help her along. She continued to focus and soon felt another emotion. She was not certain if it was her feelings or his, but they bombarded her system and she leaned in closer without thinking about it first.:: T'Mar: Attraction... ::she whispered, staring into his eyes. Logic had abandoned her as her abilities went into overdrive.:: ::Zage widened his eyes. He was not trying to project his attraction for her, but she was able to pick up on it. It was a small feeling he had inside, and the Vulcan seemed to identify it quickly. He was not sure what to do next. He could have just played it off as him thinking of an old flame, but when dealing with an empath, it was easy to tell when they were not being honest. He could not think of anything to do but move one. He was worried about how she might take it. There was a lot to be said about the things that were never said. Neither confirming, nor denying he was feeling the attraction toward her, he nervously moved on.:: Bolani: ::nodding:: Yes. And now... ::T'Mar felt her heart pound and her blood rush to her cheeks, probably tinting them green.:: T'Mar: Nervous.. Bolani: I think you are getting pretty good at this. ::Looking into her eyes he paused. There was a look briefly in her eyes and it was one he shared. He realized that while she was learning quite a bit, they hit the ground running. He was winging it instead of planning out the different aspects. It made him nervous and concerned that he was feeling the attraction to her, and working with her empathic abilities at the same time. He felt the urge to drift his lips toward her, but fought it...knowing better. In one swift moment, he broke eye contact with her.:: ::T'Mar suddenly pulled back, her logic taking over. she remained silent, unsure what to say:: Bolani: I uh...I think we had a good lesson. You are actually pretty good at this once you get started. It will be harder for you to suppress your emotions and be able to read others at the same time. T’Mar: Indeed, I am noticing that.. ::T’Mar began focusing on getting her emotions in check. She was not fond of that aspect of these sessions. At the same time, she was not sure what to make of what had just occurred.:: ::Zage quickly stood up from the center of the room. He wanted to stay longer, but he could not afford the prolonged responses of his emotional state. Had she been any other species, he may not have shut down so quickly. He felt helpless, and as if his feelings were futile. He was not sure what he was doing, but he knew it needed to stop, at least until he had time to figure it out.:: Bolani: I think we can call it a night. It is getting late, and I do not want to impose...besides, the more you spend on it at one time, the more it can become blurry. ::smiling at her:: For what it is worth, I think you did a great job. I cannot wait until our next session, we will do it in the mess hall, or the Complex. ::His idea was to take the focus off of his feelings and put it onto someone else. Being an empath, he would be able to tell if her guess was right. That would keep his emotions out of the discussion, and he would try better to mask his attraction for her. It was the best way to help her and try to keep his feelings from her at the same time.:: ::T’Mar blew out the candles and stood, looking at Zage.. not daring to sense his emotions, for fear that she may lose control again. Instead, she nodded at his suggestion, a tiny smile creeping in.:: T’Mar: I look forward to the session as well. You are indeed a talented instructor. Thank you.. ::Moving to the door he turned around and gave her one last smile. He knew that he would need to see her in the morning when he came on duty. He was hoping he would not feel awkward. The last thing he needed was to have his personal feelings spill over to his work, but he knew enough to be able to prevent it from happening.:: Bolani: I will see you in the morning. ::T’Mar watched as he made his way to her door. A part of her wanted him to stay, the other knew it was not logical for many reasons.:: T’Mar: I will expect you to be on time, despite this late session. ::Turning Zage headed out of her quarters and off toward his. The entire trip he dwelled upon his feelings and the thoughts he was having in her quarters. He was not sure why they chose that moment to really surface. He thought that because he was trying to adapt his feelings through memories and at the same time focus on her...he just became over extended. It was a lot to handle on their first lesson, but in the end the benefits were greater than the drawbacks.:: ::And he left. T’Mar suddenly felt so alone in her quarters. She changed into her pajamas, dwelling on the emotions that had surfaced in the session. How was it that she so easily became overwhelmed with attraction? Unless.. she was feeling it too. It only made sense. Except that it didn’t. She was a Vulcan, she shouldn’t be allowing herself to feel anything. She sat on her bed, still deep in thought, wondering what was going through Zage’s mind. As she laid down, she soon became aware that the session had worn her out more than she originally thought. She drifted off into sleep, wondering what their interaction would be like the next day..:: TBC Lieutenant JG T’Mar Chief Security Officer USS Apollo, NCC-71669 & PNPC Lieutenant JG Zage Bolani Security Officer USS Apollo, NCC-71669 as simmed by: Fleet Captain Andrus Jaxx Commanding Officer USS Apollo, NCC-71669 Captains Council Magistrate

Are we still to use the conventional simming format? Just, with the action in first person?