Narciso finished gathering himself inside the vacant transporter room. As he walked forward towards the doors that lead out into the corridor, the transporter chief entered and gave a nod. Narciso returned it and continued on. Usually he always had to stop and chat for a minute before continuing on, but since he had just arrived, it would take a bit to reach that point. Well, a while due to the sheer size of this crew. He wondered how long it would take for him to become acquainted with everyone aboard. His first step would be to take a look at the ships’ roster, which awaited him at his new office.

Stepping out onto the corridor, he turned to his left and was met with a crash, having bumped into a walking crewman. Narciso bounced backwards, as did the one he bumped, though both managed to stay up on their feet. “Ah, I’m very sorry about that” Spoke Narciso as he tried to focus his eyes on the person before him.

“No, no, it’s alright. I’m good….. Counselor!?” The person suddenly lunged forward and embraced Narciso, who was taken by surprise. “I can’t believe it’s you! This must be providence!” The woman let the confused counselor go and allowed him to finally get a good view of who she was.

“Christina?” Narciso questioned as he looked upon her. This woman was Ensign Christina Denmark. She was on duty within the Main Engineering of the USS Adonis during the mission to Da’Vani II. When the starship was attacked by a Borg cube, She had been one of the few that remained behind to help. She was also one of the officers who ended up saving Narciso’s life when things went sour and his console had overloaded.

“Yes it’s me! I’m so happy to see you again Counselor!” The young woman had a giant smile on her face, and a gleeful shine in her eyes.

“It’s good to see you too Christina.”

“Thank you Counselor! I can’t wait to tell the others you’re here!”

“The others? Do you mean…”
“That’s right! Hal, Jake and Theo! The four of us were assigned here to the Pallas Helena shortly after what happened with the Adonis. They’ll be so happy to see you Counselor!”

“And I, them. But I just arrived. I still have to formally check in for duty and do my preparations.”

“Oh, of course! Don’t worry about it, I’ll tell them they can see you later! Just knowing you’re on board will make them happy. You’re going to run into them sooner or later anyways, even on a ship this size! Anyways, I need to get going myself! See you later Counselor!” With all that said, without taking a breath or pausing, Ensign Denmark ran off down the corridor after patting a hand on Narciso’s left arm. The experience reminded him of how absolutely exhausted he truly was. He didn’t even have the capability to sense her, if only vaguely, due to how worn out he was.

Narciso kept walking; the length of the corridor was proving to be far too long for his current tastes. But that was likely due to his wanting to lay down on the floor and sleep for about a week. He reached a turbolift and leaned against its’ circular walls. He let out a sigh and spoke softly. “Deck five, please.” The computer chimed it’s acknowledgement and the turbolift promptly began to move upwards. As it came to a slow stop, Narciso hoped no one he knew would be waiting for the lift. He didn’t want to have to see anyone when the door slid open.

His luck held out, as the door opened the corridor was empty of anyone, which was logical since they would all be at their stations or resting at this hour. He hurried as best as he could down the corridor, and finally found the door to his assigned room. The door swished open and revealed the already decorated space. Narciso moved in and looked around, all his belongings were already here and they were already in their proper place. His paintings of Betazed scenery lined the walls, and framed pictures were everywhere. He smiled as he knew that this was all Marietta’s doing. That girl worked fast. Narciso made his way to his bedroom, admiring the way she had decorated for him and instantly collapsed on the bed. He quickly drifted off to sleep.


Sleep could not have been sweeter or shorter lived. Narciso was awoken by the ongoing chime of the computer. Once awake Narciso arose from his bed and looked around. The chime was coming from the door. Rubbing his eyes with the round of his forefingers’ knuckles, he called out. “Come in.”

The door opened and it was Marietta that came through the doors. She scurried into the bedroom and flung a datapad at Narciso. The thing zoomed through the air and hit Narciso flat in his face causing him to fall backwards and give out a whelp of pain. Marietta bit her fist as she saw him completely fail at catching the datapad and hurried to his side. “Mon Deus, Narciso! You still completely out of it?”

“Ow. Ow. Ow…” Narciso cried as he gripped his forehead in the palm of his hand. He opened his eyes just as Marietta helped him to sit upwards on his mattress. “Marietta…”

“Sorry, sorry! You always catch it!”

“Apparently not.” Narciso whined out softly. “Now what is it?”

“Orders! Well, confirmation of orders!” Marietta exclaimed cheerfully. “They approved the commencement of your experiment! I wasn’t supposed to read the orders, but I thought ‘what the Hell, why not’, and did so.”

Narciso went wide eyed and looked at the datapad. “Which experiment!?” He asked prior to his actual reading of the information. “The DIVA System… They finally gave it their official approval and backing.”

“Isn’t that great!” Marietta lunged and embraced Narciso. As the two began jumping up and down like adolescent schoolgirls, the red alert instantly blared. The two looked at each other then jumped off the bed and headed for the door. Usually there would be an announcement from the Captain regarding the red alert. Left without a clue, Narciso tried asking the only one they could; the computer.

“Computer, why is the ship in Red Alert?”

“Inquiry invalid.”

Narciso looked to Marietta who then tried herself.

“Computer, what is the cause of the Red Alert?”

“The Pallas Helena is under attack.”

“Under attack? We’re still in dry-dock at the Utopia Planeta Shipyard. We can’t be under attack!” Marietta exclaimed as she opened the door and looked out into the corridor. A second later the Red Alert ended, leaving the two puzzled by what had happened. “What was that all about?” Marietta asked looking towards Narciso.

The computer chimed and a strong voice was heard. “All hands, disregard that Red Alert. Maintenance on the systems caused that hiccup. Proceed with your duties. Over and out.”

Marietta turned and looked to Narciso with a raised eyebrow. He, in return, gave her a blank look before finally giving in and walking past her. “No, he wasn’t entirely sure about what he said.” Narciso spoke as he passed her, causing Marietta to smirk and begin walking behind him.

“I’m going to like serving on this starship.” She said jokingly. She and Narciso walked until they came to a turbolift. They then proceeded to take it to the bridge. When the turbolift reached its destination, the pair walked out as the door slid open. The sight before them was exhilarating. The walked forward, beside each other, and Narciso could tell that Marietta was already eyeing the tactical station.

“Welcome to the bridge.”

The voice drew the attention of the two, who placed their eyes on its source, Captain Talons. Narciso and Marietta remained side by side and spoke at the same time. “Reporting for duty Captain.”

“Excellent. Lieutenant Geroff, take the tactical support station. Counselor Heliree, have a seat here.”

Marietta withheld her disappointment at being made the support instead of the main tactical officer, but that was expected. She made her way and introduced herself to her superior, Lieutenant Commander Ric Beldon. He was an Andorian who was tall and bulky with muscle. He and Marietta instantly hit it off together, and began bonding over the armament of the Pallas Helena.

Narciso, however, didn’t have a set station on the bridge as the ships counselor. In fact, the majority of his time would be spent in the lower decks, evaluating the crew and their mentality, making sure that they are able to retain their sanity. He moved forward and took the seat to the left of the captain, who took his own seat, the command chair.

“Counselor, I’ve heard of your high aptitude empathic ability, which is why I requested your presence. With a ship this large and a crew of this size, I need someone who can endure it mentally.”

“Of course Captain. I’m more than happy to help.”

“And that’s not all. I’ve also heard of your scientific genius. You see, your reputation precedes you.”

“As long as it’s not notoriety, Captain, I’m honored.”

“No, of course it isn’t. Now I hope you are well rested. We are about to launch. Our repairs have been completed.”

Just as the Captain finished speaking, Commander Reaver walked in from the turbolift and approached his seat. He saw Marietta jumping around the tactical station and smirked, glad that she’ll never change on bit. He then saw Narciso sitting with the Captain and his smirk turned into a smile. “Captain. Counselor.” He spoke as he took his seat.

“Ah, Commander. Good timing, we are just about to get under way.”

“Captain, before we leave dry-dock I would like to ask you about the incident with the Red Alert.” Narciso asked as the Captain finished speaking.

“Don’t worry Counselor, it’s been taken care of.” The Captain paused for a moment then looked directly to Narciso. “Why do you ask? Is the Crew worried?”

“No-no.” Narciso replied. “Nothing like that, they all have complete confidence and trust in your actions and your words. I was worried about it myself.”

“Ah, well then that’s good to hear.” The Captain then laid back and spoke to the bridge crew. “Our wounds have been healed, and our souls rejuvenated. With her rebirth, the Pallas Helena is ready to once more embark one her voyage. Let’s make sure she does not disappoint! Helm, take us out!”

The Captain’s enthusiasm spread like wildfire throughout the bridge. The helmsman, who turned out to be none other than Ensign Haldgard Rowbascho. He was the one who piloted the medical shuttle out of the Adonis as it rammed the Borg cube during the incident on Da’Vani II. “Aye-aye Captain, powering stern thrusters now. We will be clear of dry-dock within two minutes.”

“Aye, she’s not a small girl by any means. We have a grown lady on our hands Helmsman, treat her right.”

“Aye Captain! We will be clear in 33 seconds.”

“Set course to Vulcan, warp 4.”

Ensign Rowbascho laid the course into the computer and smiled as he was signaled the clearing of dry-dock. “Captain, we are all clear.”

“Engage warp engines.”

Upon command, the engines hummed and the ship was propelled forward. The Bridge was silent, as though everyone within were trying to listen to the humming of the engines. It was finally broken by Marietta who shouted. “These phaser banks are freaking sweet!” Her outburst caused laughter to erupt from everyone, even the Captain who stood up and turned to look at his new tactical support officer. “Yes they are, perfectly modified too if I may brag a bit.”

“You may sir! I can’t WAIT to try these puppies-” Marietta was unable to finish her sentence as the ship was rocked by an unknown source.

“Beldon, report!” Reaver shouted as he griped his chair to stabilize himself.

“We were hit by Disruptor fire sir!”

“At this velocity!?”

“Someone is very bold.” Said the Captain, cutting in as he took his command seat. “Find the ship that shot at us.”

“Sensors aren’t showing anything nearby sir. Captain we are losing warp drive. Falling out of warp now sir. We are limited to impulse engines only.” Stated Ensign Rowbascho. “No ships in our vicinity sir.”

“Captain to Main Engineering. What’s going on down there?”

“Ey Captain. Engineering here sir. Something’s gone wrong with our computer. The warp core is performing fine, but it’s not registering as such.” The voiced belonged to Cherrosk himself.

“A computer glitch?” Questioned Reaver with a look to the Captain.

“Unlikely number one. We just came out of maintenance. They couldn’t have missed something like this.”

“Sir we have a ship decloaking to our port side.”

“Decloaking? In Federation space? On screen.”

As the image came into view, a decloaking ship appeared and it caused confusion to all who saw it.

“Is that… An Orion Brigand Cruiser?”

The August PvE Department events schedule has been posted! Be sure to join us for our upcoming, department hosted events this coming month! See the first post on page one of this thread.

Narciso allowed himself to daze out as he gazed through the glass of the turbolift as he rode it upwards. The sight he was watching before him was beyond impressive. He had never seen such a ship before. But his exhaustion was starting to catch up to him. He started to feel his eyelids grow heavy, but hastily shook his head in reaction to his drowsiness, giving himself a jumpstart, an alert. His eyes focused on the ship as the turbolift rose just beyond the point to be high enough to see over the expanse of the dorsal section. He finally admired the beauty of the Starfleet vessel as it laid stationed in dry-dock in front of him.

“It is a beautiful vessel.” Spoke a feminine voice softly.

“Yeah. I had a car that looked like it a few years back.” Answered a masculine voice.

“I remember that car. You managed to drive it off a cliff.”

“Aye, why do you remember all my mistakes?”

“Because if I didn’t I wouldn’t be able to talk with your wife.” The young woman laughed softly at her own words, raising a hand to cover her lips trying to not laugh to loudly.

“That’s a good point Geroff… Stop making so many of those.”

“Alright Cherrosk. I’ll stop being correct just for you, oui?”

“…’Wee’…” Replied Cherrosk in agreement, but his attempt only brought forth more laughter from the young lady.

Narciso rose his hand to the glass, touching its’ chilled surface. “Marietta…” He called out, his voice as gentle as down. “Marietta, what do you think of all this?”

The young lady’s eyes darted directly to the young man who stood before her. He was a few inches shorter than her. His hair was long, dark brown with some low red and blonde highlights that occurred naturally with sun exposure. The hair hung loosely over the shoulders of the young man, with tamed curls and waves surrounding his face in a frame. His clothes were tight at the chest and waist, but below that point the robe hung loosely. The fabric was a deep blue, with silver embellishments along the rims and collar. Marietta took two steps forward, placing her hands on his shoulder, careful not to accidently pull his lush hair. She let out a deep breath, and took a final step, placing herself directly behind him, her abdomen pressed against his spine. She moved her hands, her arms, and wrapped them around his shoulders in embrace. She laid her right check on the left side of his head, against his ear without blocking it. He rose a hand, placing it on the arc of her forearm.
**“Je pense, mon frère… que les morts devraient se reposer et la vie si… vivez dessus.” Marietta replied, practically whispering in his ear.

((**I think, my brother… that the dead should rest and the living… should live on.))


Narciso teared up a bit, a single drop appeared in the corner of his eyes. Before he could burst out in a multitude of them, Marietta started to sing for him as she embraced him.

**“Sono te o watashi e to
Azukete; me o tojite
Mabuta ni kuchizukete
Itami o iyashimashou
Nemurinasai, yukkuri to
Ushinau kowasa wa dare mo onaji
Kanashimi, mayoi mo tsutsumikomu
Chikarazuyosa kanjitai
Arasou munashisa subete no hito
Kizukeba kagayaku hi wa noboru
Sono toki made inoru kara…”


((**Give your hand to me. And close your eyes. Let me cure your pain. With a kiss on your eyelids. Sleep now, be at ease. Everyone's the same: their lost fears. Wrapping up sadness and confusion, too. I want to feel that strength. If everyone realized, The pointlessness of war, a glittering sun would rise. Until that time comes, I pray…))

Cherrosk stood in the corner, choking up as Marietta sang, but stifling his emotions so as to not add to Narciso’s gloom. He managed to swallow his sorrow, and spoke. “Guys… The turbolift has reached our floor. Come on, the meeting is about to begin…” Cherrosk reached toward the two, placing both hands on both of them on one of their shoulders. Marietta nodded and quickly squeezed Narciso tightly before releasing him. “Well… It is a beautiful ship.” She spoke trying to start pointing out the positive things.

Narciso smiled softly, feeling lucky that he had people so close to him. “Yes. Truly beautiful.” He said before turning around a hundred and eighty degrees and walking out behind the pair he called family. The trio walked side by side down a short corridor, With Marietta holding Narciso in her arm and Cherrosk in the lead. They walked with a somber gloom about them, one that bellied their small smiles. They continued for a few meters then turned and entered into a small conference room. They were met by a couple faces, one of which was known and the other of which was new.

“You are on time… I’m glad to see you’re all improving after the-“

“Merci, Captain Talons.”

Noting the interruption, the Captain skipped what he was about to say. Obviously the wounds were still fresh. “Well you understand why you are all here, yes?”

“Yessir.” Spoke Cherrosk, a business-as-usual tone in his voice. “You requested our assignment to your ship, and to be under your command.”

“Correct. Here are your detailed duty assignments aboard my vessel. Commander Reaver, please.” The Captain had been standing near a window overlooking Mars, of which was clearly visible. He motioned with his hands, and the then seated Commander arose and handed the trio a datapad each, finally looking at them for the first time since they entered. “Welcome aboard the USS Pallas Helena. Well met, Marietta, Andrew, Narciso.”

“Please… Call me Cherrosk.”

“And call me the Queen de Paris.” Marietta spoke as a jab to Cherrosk preferring his last name to be used in place of his first. “Just take the pad, nod, and smile. You know, just like when your kids were born… Maybe not that stupid a grin though.”

The trio of Reaver, Cherrosk and Marietta laughed. Narciso only managed to smile softly as he reached for his datapad. Reaver, however, kept his grip on it. “Narciso…”

“It’s alright Reaver. I’m fit for duty.”

“I trust your word.” He held his grip on the datapad for a few minutes more then finally relinquished it. His eyes stayed glued to the young man before him, taking in every aspect of his physical form. His gaze was only broken when the Captain began to speak again.

“Well you all have your orders. You will board the Pallas Helena immediately.”

“Yessir. Where is the shuttle?” Cherrosk asked.

“What shuttle?” The Captain returned the question with a smirk on his face. Before the group could ponder on -let alone question- his words, a transporter beam was activated and sent all of them into the starship.

Materializing within a larger transporter room, only the four were present, as the Captain had been sent directly to the bridge. Cherrosk instantly padded himself down while Marietta laughed her ass off in regards to the Captains’ actions. Reaver stood still and looked pale as a ghost. Narciso looked to the three and then moved towards Reaver. “Marietta you and Cherrosk should go on and get settled. I’m sure our personal belongings have been set to our quarters in the same manner. Marietta instantly hooked her arm around Cherrosk and began to drag him away, as he tried to look at what was happening but was gone from the room before being able to see the whole picture.

The room now empty save for the two, Narciso took the necessary steps to put himself directly before Reaver, a hand placed on Reaver’s shoulder. Narciso tilted his head to the side slightly and looked up into Reaver’s eyes. “Still not comfortable with the transporter are you, Imzadi?”

Reaver barely moved to breath, but his eyes looked down to lock with Narciso’s gaze. Color began to return to his face, saving it from being a pasty white. “Apparently not…” His voice was low and deeper than usual, a result of the sudden shock he just endured. However he surprised Narciso, and raised his arms up, pulling the young counselor into him for a tight embrace. His left hand planted firmly on the crest of Narciso’s back, and the right held firmly, though gently, the back of his neck. Narciso’s head was placed to rest on Reaver’s shoulder, their cheeks pressing against each other.

Narciso was stunned for a moment as this action took place, but he didn’t fight it. He raised his own arms and wrapped them around Reaver’s waist, locking his left wrist into the palm of his right hand. “You lasted this long… I’m sorry I couldn’t reach you sooner.” Narciso spoke almost in a whisper.

Reaver’s grasp on him tightened. “Just… shut up. I thought you had died. But here you are, in my arms. That’s… all I wanted. All I want.”

Narciso allowed his body to relax and lean against Reaver. He felt wetness on his right shoulder, and realized that Reaver had begun to cry. That was an extreme rarity.

“Kenneth…”

“When I heard of the accident… I was ready to die. Die so I could join you. Everyone’s names had appeared on the casualty list. Marietta, Cherrosk, and… you. So just shut up. And let me have this moment.”

Narciso nodded slightly, finally realizing that it wasn’t the fact that he had been transported that sent the shock to his system, but the fact that the one he loved and believed dead was still alive and now embracing him. Because of this, Narciso didn’t utter another word. He relaxed completely now. After many minutes had passed, the computer chimed and the voice of the captain came through.

“Reaver, you are late to arrive on the bridge. Is everything alright?”

“Reaver here sir. No, everything is… just fine. I’ll be up shortly.”

“Acknowledged number one.”

Reaver finally broke the embrace, slowly straightening his posture but keeping his arms around Narciso, their eyes locked once more.

“Go on. You need to report for duty.”

“But I finally have you again…”

“I’m not going anywhere. I still have to sing and teach our melody to you.”

“You do. I’m looking forward to it.”

“Me too. After all, the living need to live on.”

“That they do…” Reaver leaned in and placed a long kiss on Narciso’s forehead. Reluctantly he let go of his embrace and walk out the door, leaving the transporter room. Narciso stood alone in the empty space. He tilted his head back and took in a deep breath, releasing it slowly while he placed a hand onto his abdomen, which fluttered wildly with his nervousness.

“Yes. The living live on…”

~Dramatis Personae~



USS Pallas Helena - Odyssey Class Cruiser,
-Commissioned 2409.


Lieutenant Commander, Counselor Narciso Neves-Heliree – 22
-Main Protagonist of our story. Serves as Ships' Counselor.


Commander Kenneth Calintz Reaver – 26
-Protagonist and a romantic interest of Narciso. Ships' XO.


Lieutenant Marietta Geroff – 25
-Protagonist and sister-figure to Narciso. Ships' Tactical Support Officer.


Lieutenant Andrew Cherrosk – 31
-Protagonist and friend of Narciso. Ships' Superior Engineer Officer

Ensign Lillia Cherrosk - 30
-Wife of Andrew and mother of his children. Lab scientist turned caretaker.

- Maillia Cherrosk - 8
- Axila Cherrosk - 5
- Dearian Cherrosk - 3



Captain Rider Talons – 43
-CO of the Pallas Helena. Calculating and cunning, can turn bad situations to an advantage.


CMO, Doctor Vincent Reeves – 61
- An intelligent man and respectable doctor. He has a tendency to have things done his way or his way by force.


Lieutenant Commander Ric Beldon - 29
- Andorian weapons specialist. Has a habit of aiming weapons first then doing a tactical analysis on an enemy.


Ensign Christina “Chrissy” Demark - 25
- A medical crewmen, she also knows her way around warp cores as a hobby.


Ensign Jacob “Jake” Rhythm - 26
- Warp specialist and diagnostics officer. Has a talent for working heavy machinery with grace.


Ensign Haldgard "Hal" Rowbascho - 26
- Talented Pilot of the Pallas Helena. A "Right is right and wrong is wrong" Type of guy.


Ensign Theodore “Theo” Richlands - 25
- A young man who had been assimilated at age 17 while a cadet. He was rescued and separated from the Borg collective. He praises Narciso as his saving grace.


Captain Beatrix Devna Mariana - 32
- A Captain in the Orion Syndicate. She has mixed thoughts about life. Commands the IKS Lokapāla, a Brigand Cruiser.

Valla Arin Mariana - 23
- Younger brother of Beatrix. He is a civilian, not holding any rank within any organization. He does, however, work as a spy for the Orion Syndicate.


.

Great, I'm skipping the World Cup because Brazil is "unsettled" (not to mention one dangerous place for gay people) and now I can see the Russian Olympics are a no go as well.

A lot of this crap got stirred up by Scott Lively, the same American who stirred crap in Uganda. There is a lot of American money behind this stuff.

So happy they are hosting the Olympics, nothing says world unity like police state beatings, and hate crimes.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/photos-from-russia-everyone-needs-to-see

Aikune - Lady GaGa (U.S.S. Mother Monster, U.S.S. Born This Way, U.S.S. Lady GaGa, etc. All NX-96464)

Dean of Greendale - Community (U.S.S. Jeff Winger, U.S.S. Britta Perry, U.S.S. Abed Nadir, etc.)

Elizabeth Lemon - 30 Rock (U.S.S. TGS, U.S.S. Jack Donaghe, U.S.S. Kenneth Parcel, Etc.) (U.S.S. Kathy Griffin because she's so D-List she doesn't have a toon with her own naming Convention...)

Ahn'Dy Ko'Hen - The Real Housewives (I.K.S. Lenethia Leakes, I.K.S. Tamra Barney, I.K.S. Teresa Gudice, etc.)

Watanuki - Clamp Manga (I.K.S. Cardcaptor, I.K.S. Tsubasa, I.K.S. Yuko, etc.)

Elphaba - Gregory McGuire Characters (I.K.S. Liir, I.K.S. Galinda, I.K.S. Fiyero, etc.)

Stephen J. Sondheim - Sondheim's Musicals (R.R.W. Road Show, R.R.W. Assassins, R.R.W. Company, etc.)

Izanagi - Japanese Gods (R.R.W Amaterasu, R.R.W. Susanawo, R.R.W. Emma-O, etc.)

D'Courbitin - Host Cities of the Olympic Games (R.R.W. Athen, R.R.W. Atlanta, R.R.W. London, etc)

It was implied there would be coffee...

All science ships are Paradigm, all engineer ships are Apotheosis, and all tactical ships are Anathema.

For the Romulan ships, each rank is a roman numeral, for the klingons each rank is a number, and for the federation, each rank is a letter.

RRW Paradigm, RRW Paradigm II, RRW Paradigm III, RRW Paradigm IV and RRW Paradigm V

IKS Anathema, IKS Anathema 2, IKS Anathema 3, IKS Anathema 4, IKS Anathema 5

USS Apotheosis, USS Apotheosis B, USS Apotheosis C, USS Apotheosis D, USS Apotheosis E

Here is my current and update story of mine.

[attachment=1641]MyloverMyEnemy_2013-09-23.rtf[/attachment]

Given Channel 4's track record of 'freak show' programming, I really hope this isn't going to be a "ha ha look at these nerds don't they make you feel better about yourself but it's okay to make fun at their expense as long as there's a happy ending right?" type of affair.

(It totally will be)

I tried to set it on one of my alts who had a vanity fleet and it wouldn't let me do so as all Romulan uniforms are considered "unlockable" since they aren't available from the get go.

Nice start! It will be a very interesting read. I was remembering the first episode of Voyager as I was reading it. :)

WE'RE BACK BABY!!!!!


----------------------------------------


*Stare out into the gulfs of space*
*Our happiness joining us*
*your joy alone lends me wings
*and now I never want my feet to touch the ground*


----------------------------------------


While Narciso and Reaver were in the ready room of the Evita Magdylena...


T'oi -Ready Room of the USS Metamorphoses-


Vice-Admiral S’ynek, also known as T’oi was sitting at his desk reading the service file of his new second-in-command. He hated feeling rushed, but it was important that he know all of the abilities of his new Vice Task Force Commander. He was just getting to the second page when a rush of giddy happiness came roaring through the connection between Narciso and himself. T’oi could not help himself, he smiled as well…although such a level of happiness and relief could only mean one thing. Narciso’s betrothed was alive and well somewhere. Complications had always followed T’oi wherever he went, but he had to admit to himself that this had to be the oddest complication in his life, then again when is 'love' ever simple? “Computer, history of Pon Farr complications and results for partner subjected to Pon Farr."


“Compounding Inquiry, Admiral.”


The voice in his ready room was a pleasantly male voice as per his preference, but the voice did not soothe him as it usually did. T’oi closed his eyes and started the deep meditation required to give Narciso the privacy that he deserved. Satisfied that he was sufficiently isolated emotionally, he awaited the results of his inquiry.


“Does the Admiral prefer voice or silent screen list?"


“Screen list will be sufficient, computer.”


Putting aside Rear-Admiral Kenneath Reaver’s file, S’ynek read the list. It was not too long, but once he finished reading, the results were precisely what he suspected before making the query. In all cases, if the partner did not mind meld with his beloved, he died…sometimes shortly thereafter, but in some cases closer to three to four months. With an objectivity born of Vulcan discipline, T’oi calculated the amount of time he had since he fell into the latter category. The meld had not been completed with Narciso..so he would linger…as a ghost, fully functional until the very end. There it was…his death sentence. How oddly appropriate he was about to engage a Borg fleet on the Borg front. T’oi knew Borg tactics almost better than any commander in Star Fleet, the Borg would send out Cubes, Spheres, and Nanite Spheres at first, a relentless horde designed to brutally overwhelm an opposing fleet, always holding back on the order of two and sometimes as many as four Tactical Cubes. Which was a far cry from the Battle of Wolf 359, where the Borg had sent only a single Cube vessel against amassed Federation forces. The end result was the destruction of the Borg Cube, with the vast majority of the Federation ships destroyed.That was the reason Wolf 359 was a memorial system, it had been a mindless massacre that day. A heavy blow to the United Federation of Planets. This fact alone was the reason why S’ynek had ordered the tactical playbook opened fully for the upcoming battle. Desperate times call for desperate measures, even with advanced technology, the Borg were a consistant threat. But while they assimilated, the Federation adapted.


Returning to Reaver’s file, it occurred to T’oi that this man would be an excellent successor to command the Task Force… if they both survived the upcoming battles that is. He made a note within his command pad, and logged it for the official records. The chain of command was in place and was undisputed. T’oi as overall Task Force Commander, Reaver on the right flank with Elements 1 and 2, embodying the USS Evita Magdylena as the lead. And Artenais on the left flank with Elements 3 and 4 with his command, the USS Rhine Maiden, as the lead. Elements 1 and 2 comprised of the scientific assembly with 3 and 4 being the tactical focus. T'oi also logged two sealed orders to be opened in the event of… of his Death, should it come to pass. First, Reaver would succeed him, Tickheim would take command of the Metamorphoses, and T’oi’s senior command crew would be given the opportunity to request reassignment.. Second, all of his worldly effects would go back to Vulcan and his mother, but the bulk of his Death pension would be given to Narciso and his betrothed. He smiled, a wedding gift… Odd how clear things become when facing death on two fronts. T’oi chose to replay the moment when he first realized that he was in love and marked it well…Risa, the nexus of at least two lives in this task force. He would use the memory for strength in the hours and days ahead. His mind continued to wander about as he pressed on with his preparations. His conference with Reaver should happen shortly.


_______________________________


-On the Bridge of the Evita Magdylena-


The face of Commander Tickeim, the new First Officer of the Metamorphoses, was seen on the large viewscreen on the Oddyssey's bridge. In return, on his viewscreen, were the faces of Reaver and Narciso. On both viewscreens, the hastened bodies of the crew could be seen scrambling about, being busy with the final preparations. Tik looked to them, if he had eyebrows, one would be raised at this point. His eyes had laid themselves on the pair, though his voice did not show his curiosity. "Rear-Admiral Reaver, good evening, sir. An honor. Vice-Admiral T'oi has requested your presence for a Task Force Commander Conference on the Metamorphoses at 1800 hours. Also he recommends you read the Starfleet Tactical Proposal appended to this transmission and prepare the Evita Magdylena for it's emergency implementation."


Kenneath looked to the small console attached to his chairs' armrest, his fingers gliding over and calling forth the STP that had been transmissioned. He read the name, two simple words. "Delta Attack" And he instantly let out a huff and a "HA!" His eyes returned to Tik and he rose a hand, pointing at him. "Starfleet Tactical Proposal? Don't even try to give me this work with such a label. I Know exactly who had created and slaved over this work and it was not Starfleet. Someone had better not be trying to steal the work of a close friend, if you catch my drift Commander. I do not want any.. 'misunderstandings' between those in command. 'Starfleet Tactical Proposal, like it is something already published and ready to be implimented right away by Federation Command. I can't believe-"


Narciso rose a hand and placed it on Kenneath's shoulder, causing him to calm down from his anger and grow silent. Narciso turned his face and looked to Tik. "Thank you Commander. We Have received the transmission clearly and we know exactly what we must do. I trust complete detail is held within the material. Tell the Admiral we thank him for his consideration of our proposal. We believe it to be a great asset."


Commander Tik had obviously been taken back by Kenneath's reaction, the slight accusation that 'someone', T'oi, was trying to steal the credit for the tactical plans. However, once Narciso spoke, he regained his comfort and composure. "Very well. Yes the material contains full details and it shall be viewed once we are clear of drydock. Those are the orders of Admiral T'oi. Admiral Reaver, Counselor." Tik gave a bow of the head and was suddenly gone from the viewscreen as the image went blank with darkness. Narciso looked towards Kenneath, pondering. "I wonder what this meeting with T'oi will be about..." Kenneath threw his arms up, stretching and shrugging. "I don't know... But it better be quick. We still have a lot to do here. The Evita Madylena is a giant ship, not to mention the special customizations it has been given to fit this Task Force. The hangar bay alone was an ordeal and a half to handle. Anyways, I'm going to get ready. Why this conferance can't happen on a secure channel, I don't know. Does this guy have any idea what an inconvience this is to us? Making us transport from our ships now during these preparations. Guess I'll see first hand how the transporters are working... they had a minor glitch earlier with the cargo." Kenneath flinched a bit. He hated using the transporters. He would likely end up taking a shuttle to admiral T'oi's vessel in place of the convenient transporter. Narciso never understood his reasoning, but then again Narciso used transporters constantly.


Narciso stood from his seat and looked down to Kenneath, placing a hand on his cheek. "I should go to the lab and make sure everything is in order. The last thing I want to do is be forced to replicate equipment that never made it on board." Kenneath rose his own hand and took Narciso's into it. He moved the counselors hand to his lips and gave it a kiss. "You do that baby. I'll be on the Metamorphoses." Narciso smiled and he had to tear his hand away from Kenneaths playful grip. He made his way to the turbolift, and as soon as he was within it he looked out to see Kenneath be swarmed by the officers, asking him on his advice on what should go where and how things should be done. He shined when he did these things, he was an amazing officer, a great and respected commander. The doors to the turbolift shut and Narciso was gone to the lower leves. The ships' main labratory was located in the center of the secondary hull, perpendicular to the forward facing deflector array. The turbolift was not a long ride, considering the sheer size of the vessel. Narciso walked a short distance to the entrance of the lab itself. When the double doors slid open, Narciso practically gasped and rose his hands to cover his mouth and nose. He was astonished by what he saw. The laboratory was gigantic to begin with, and the equipment held within it was state of the art. As Narciso wandered further in, someone finally called out, basically shouted, that the chief science officer was present. Narciso was startled at first and looked around himself, trying to find the person that had just been recognized, only to realize a moment later that he was that said person. He was in Heaven. This laboratory was every scientists' dream...


Kenneath had finally gotten everything squared away on the bridge. He looked to the time and saw it read as 1822 hours. He sat back on his seat, more like plopped down onto it, and let out a sigh, raising a hand to his brow, pinching the bridge of his nose. He hated being late, but this was a difficult situation. His crew came first, even though it was his duty to obey his superior officer. He rose back up onto his feet, grasping the bottom of the top half of his uniform, fixing it. "I am heading to the Metamorphoses." He announced as he moved towards the transporter pad. Everyone expected him to go to the turbolift, and their eyes went wider and wider with every step he took. Once on the pad, he turned and faced the bridge crew, a worried look on his face, one he was obviously trying to hide away but failed miserably at doing. "If anything goes wrong-uh, um... *cough* I mean, while I am away Rhiannon is in charge of the bridge." With his sentence finished, the transporter beamed him directly to the bridge of the Metamorphoses. Once he left, the bridge crew of the Evita Magdylena remained wide eyed, and looked to each other to realize if they had truly seen what had happened: a miracle.


Once Kenneath materialized on the Metamorphoses, the first thing he did was pat his hands all over his body, making sure that all his limbs were there. Confident that he was in one piece, he looked around and casually walked to the captain's ready room, where Admiral T'oi would be. He stood before the door, allowing it to chime.


"Please enter." T'oi called out.


Kenneath allowed the doors to slide open, then walked in casually, but in strict military posture. "Admiral T'oi, an honor to meet you face to face. though I must apologize for my being late. Preparations aboard the Evita Magdylena have been hectic, but finally under control." He kept his eyes on the admiral, watching him with caution.


"Good, good and no apology is necessary, Reaver. Call me T'oi, we have a lot of work to do. But I must ask a question first." T'oi continued working on the various datapads piled atop his desk, talking without looking up.


"Yes Admiral." He paused for a moment, then allowed himself to relax in his posture. "Please, ask away."


"My First Officer called you earlier, with what I had hoped to be a message you would understand about the work of a certain, very talented, if undisciplined friend of yours. He came back worried. I understand Counselor Neves-Heliree had to calm you. Did you think I had something in mind...like using her work without giving her credit?"


"To be frank Admiral; yes I did." Kenneath rose an eyebrow slightly. "I have already witnessed one too many fools trying to claim work that did not belong to them. And I have had the honor of handling their perjury myself. It is something I find absolutely appalling. Now, I will admit to having jumped the gun in this situation. I was... overcome with a strange sensation at the time. But Counselor Neves-Heliree had confirmed to me that you were not such a man, and assured me that you are one to be trusted with life itself. And I have faith in his judgement, so I have that faith in you now."


T'oi raised an eyebrow, "I am disappointed Admiral Reaver. Allow me to clarify this matter. I intend to-"


Reaver rose a hand and interrupted. "Admiral there is no need to explain. I understand my folly, and I assure you it will not happen again."


"Ah, Good, then that is dispensed with. I could not be frank with you over an open channel because Commander Geroff's work has been...set aside by desk bound administrators who have never seen the business end of a Borg cutting beam."


Kenneath let out a hearty laugh at T'oi's words regarding Marietta's work. "Don't I know it Admiral. I was the officer who endorsed her work to Starfleet Command. But should you not have spoken over a secure channel? don't misunderstand me, I vastly prefer face to face conversation, but considering the current tasks at hand... Time is a luxury we are short of."


"No, I needed to have you here. You see, I have ordered certain supplies laid in for your ship, my ship, and Captain Umax's ship. When we depart our three ships will start drilling Marietta's tactics."


"Ah, the specifications for the 'upgrades' Marietta's work calls for yes?" Kenneath said as more of a statement then a question.


"Yes....the 'upgrades."


"I've already seen the theoretical writings and implementations. It shouldn't take too long too move those into practice and not theory." Kenneath looked towards the various datapads, trying to figure out what they were all about and how he was keeping track of it all.


"Excellent, I was hoping you would give me a more detailed briefing, since you are familiar with the Commander's work, sometimes written reports fail to convey the heart and essence of plans."


Picking up a datapad, T'oi looked up to Kenneath. "In the meantime, this is the list of the ships in the Task Force, it is yours to take with you." T'oi picked up two pads and placed them in his safe. "These two are in the event that I die,do me a favor and provide your voiceprint to my Yeoman before you go, a nice young Andorian by the name of Shras. One is my last wishes and the other is my final set of orders." His hand accidentally brushed Reaver's briefly as he handed the pad to him, and he suddenly saw Narciso smiling...his beauty overwhelmed T'oi, his posture stiffened and he struggled to regain his composure. Damn the Pon Farr and damn his Vulcan biology! Suddenly, it occurred to T'oi that Reaver was a Betazoid, and that he was fully open, he tried to control his bond to Narciso, struggling with it. The incident took less than a few ticks of the chronometer but T'oi succeeded. "I am sorry, Reaver..it did not occur to me that you were from Betazed...although I am certain I read that in your file. I hope my...distress...did not make you uncomfortable." T'oi felt a tear running down his face, which he hastily wiped away. "Excuse me, I will be right back." He quickly went into his private alcove to freshen up.


After splashing some water on his face and reestablishing control, T'oi returned to the Ready Room. He realized that if they were going to have any success against the Borg, laser sharp focus was required of him. "Admiral, I need your tactical and strategic assessment of the Borg front."


"Personal opinion or my official assessment, sir?" Reaver asked as he watched the admiral return.


"Personal, please."


"Wherever the Borg appear, Death travels in their wake. I do not expect this to be any different. But, I do think that we will be able to turn the tide of this confrontation. The Borg have many more vessels than we do, the sheer amount troubling. Thus far they out number us, roughly five to one. And that was the estimate pror the last battle reported in from the Front."


"Are Commander Geroff's tactics and systems sufficient to even or shorten the odds?"


"I believe they are Admiral. Her plans allow us to effectively disable or even destroy Borg vessels without expecting casualties on our side. Though the troubles will be with the execution of said plans. So we can't rule out any possibility of such events. After all, these are the Borg we will be fighting."


"Indeed. Once our ships drill these tactics and install the necessary equipment, how long will it take to implement everything task-force wide?"


"That is a difficult question. Only a few of the ships within our entire task-force will have the proper modifications and upgrades required to perform the manuveurs properly. But those that have the capability, such as our flagships, shouldn't take long at all. It depends on the individual crew of course. I am sure with some simulations and field practice, we will be ready. We have time between our launch and reaching our destination to make many attempts and get it right."


"Now, what may I do to give you the political cover necessary to make this task easier for you? I quite dislike politics, but I am responsible for the task-force and I want your hands free to do what is necessary to ensure our success."


"I do not think that any political cover will be required. We will be executing these tactics within Federation Space proper. Not to mention that the Front against the Borg has yet to be met with any other organization. At least not fully. But, should we be required to do this outside Federation Space... Well that's tricky. I guess the 'political' response to our actions would be: 'It doesn't exist'. Sir. As far as the others are involved, we are simply a task-force fighting the Borg wherever they show up. That should give us freedom enough."


"Agreed. Very well, Admiral. I have kept you from your preparations long enough. Report back to your ship and continue preparing your ship and crew. I suspect we both will have our hands full in the next few days. Good luck, Reaver. Oh...Reaver? You can use one of my shuttles...you're discomfort with being transported is in your files."


"Thank you sir. But it's alright, I have... faith in my transporter chief. Besides taking a shuttle now will only delay preparations further." Reaver took a few steps back and tapped on his combadge. "Reaver to the Evita-" before he could finish his sentence a voice called back over. "Admiral Reaver! The Nezita Nile has picked up a distress signal! It's coming from the Crateris System! It reports a Borg fleet in the area. The Remans have sent out the distress call." Reaver's eyes shot to T'oi and he looked him dead in the eyes. "You know if we send aid from our task-force, we delay ourselves from the front as well as our implementation of our tactical plans."


T'oi closed his eyes. Either decision would result in deaths... "We have a responsibility to save as many lives as we can, Reaver. Is there any close by element other than us?"


"Our task-force is the only one within range with the capacity to take on the Borg in full force, even splintered. Spending other Federation Ships would be a waste."


"Very well, give the orders Admiral, we go to save the Remans today. Maximum warp."


"Sir you wish to send the entire task-force?"


"Only what is necessary to do the job if possible. We have to withold our ships."


"Understood. I know exactly who to send Sir." Reaver hastily tapped his combadge, "Beam me back Evita. Red Alert." He turned his head and sent a nod towards Admiral T'oi before being taken by the transporter beam.

So far I've had:

USS Diablo - named after a mountain near where I grew up
USS McTavish - Named after Kittens McTavish (look it up)
USS Cachorro - Pup in spanish
USS Yellow Flag (current ship) - in reference to the hanky code

I'm close to getting a new ship, not sure what I should name her...

Especially since one of the many ways the tailor is broken is that it won't save the settings for pants and skirts for a fleet uniform--we need to have these details written out somewhere.

Great video!
Thanks for sharing and brightening my early morning.
:woohoo:

I was thinking about that the other day as well as the Fleet Logo for the Starships.