Current Log Thread

[Zania Jaarda]

This thread is available for all crew members to share their posts within the current storyline on the USS Zealous. In the case that problems surface with the mailstrings, the forums will serve as our primary back-up in order to continue simming.

All crew members are encouraged to contribute to this thread!

[Zania Jaarda]

Captain Ja'arda made her way into the Cargobay, taking note of the crew that had already assembled. Just about everyone was there, with a few exceptions. There was still a little bit of time before the briefing was scheduled to start, so there was no need to rush things - at least right now.

The news was so important that it was best that the entire crew was assembled for this. If successful, it would mean that a growing threat to the Federation would be dealt a severe blow.

Alex saw the figure of Captain Ja'arda enter from the doors, and he smiled, trying to catch her eye. She looked around, with a serious look in her eye, and Alex could feel that this briefing will mark the start of a new mission, one, judging by her stance, which could prove very important.

He'd hoped to get a bit of rest, just after this mission, and after he'd returned command to the Captain, perhaps take a few days on the Relativity. He'd have to wait and see his new orders.

As soon as she saw him enter, Azanialix Ja'arda smiled. She walked over to Alex and warmly greeted him, "I'm glad you could come. Are you looking forward to the promotions?"

His face lit up, and he replied, "Of course. They all deserve the promotions, they've worked very hard, and they should be recognised. I love seeing the expression on their faces when they get those extra pips."

"As do I," the Captain noted. "Sometimes, I wish others were empathic like Betazoids during at time like this. The feeling of surprise, excitement, joy, and happiness are overwhelming, almost euphoric. It's a wonderful feeling."

She looked deeply into Alex's eyes and added, "Our upcoming mission may prove to be equally as exciting once the crew learns what our objective is."

He stared back into Zania's dark eyes, a glint of excitement dancing across them, the glint giving Alex the same feeling of excitement, and prompting him to say, "Sounds important... you will be briefing us on our orders now?"

"Not yet," she told him, picking up on the excitement that he felt, which only added to her own. "We should wait a few more moments to give the rest of the crew a chance to filter in. Once they have arrived, the first order of business is to hand out the promotions, and then to conduct the briefing."

"Fantastic", smiled Alex.

After waiting for a few more moments, Azanialix Ja'arda moved to the center of the Cargobay and cleared her throat. It was time.

"I'd like to thank all of you for coming to this briefing. Our next mission is a critical one, but before you hear what it is, there are several of you who have served with distinction and deserved to be recognized for your dedication and loyalty to the ship and your fellow crew members," she announced to all present.

Alex, and the group of people he was standing with, all turned to face the Captain. Heads all over the cargo-bay began turning towards her, as she began her speech.

"First and foremost, we have a change in the command team on the Zealous. Commander Dillard, while remaining on board the ship, is now on detatched duty for Starfleet Intelligence. He is under strict orders not to be disturbed at all costs, unless in cases of extreme emergency," Zania explained.

She paused for a moment before continuing, "With the size of this ship, as well as the crew compliment, we cannot go for long without having an Executive Officer. As such, it is both an honor and a privelage to promote Alex Ducane to the rank of full Commander, with all of the rights and privelages therein, and to appoint him to the position of Executive Officer of the USS Zealous."

Captain Ja'arda's smile widened as she looked at Alex, anticipating how he would react to this promotion.

Alex heard the words, but his mouth flapped. Everyone's head turned to look at him, and a wave of applause swept the room (with a few people cheering). This was unexpected, he'd given his all whilst in command, and clearly, he had gained enough trust to be given such a promotion.

Shakily, he made his way to the Captain, and stood opposite her and infront of the crew. "Captain", he began, "The honour is all mine."

Azanailix brushed aside a few strands of her dark hair and took a moment to afix the appropriate rank pips to Alex's collar. She then extended her hand and told him, "Congratulations, Alex."

She was tempted to hug him, but she didn't want to come across as being too forward, especially in front of the rest of the crew.

Alex took her hand, and was about to embrace her in a hug, but decided against it, infront of the crew. He shook it, and smiled at her, he turned to face the crew, and said, "What can I say? It's a pleasure to work with each one of you, and I'll look forward to continuing my command role."

"Well, Commander, since you worked more closely with the crew this past mission, would you mind doing the honors of announcing and handing out the promotions?" she wondered.

"It would be my pleasure, Captain."

He turned to address the crew and said, "In the past mission, we yet again encountered a deadly enemy. Everyone knew the dangers, but everyone knew that we are Starfleet, and we are the crew of the Zealous. You know what we are capable of, and each and everyone of you have performed at their best. But some performed beyond expectations, and it's now that they will be receiving a promotion, hence credit for their dedication"

He paused to let this message sink in, and continued....

"I'd like to call Ti'ana Sullivan, who showed she can lead a team, as she worked along side me commanding this crew, and for this, she is promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, with all the rights and privileges held in. Congratulations!"

Tag: Everyone!

OOC: This was a joint post between:

Commander Alex Ducane
XO, USS Zealous

and

Captain Azanialix Ja'arda
CO, USS Zealous
Manheim Fleet

[TaylorMase]

Jarrold looked down up at the chronometer and realized that they were running late. The crew meeting was about to start soon and while he would have much rather had this time to just sit and stare into Melissa eyes he was sure that the Captain would not see it that way. There would be plenty of time for them to spend together after the brieing.

Holding out his free hand (he was still holding the Chameloid Roses), he helped Melissa from her seat. "Looks like we have to be heading to the cargobay." he said.

Together they headed towards the door and made it to the cargobay just in time to here the Captain promote Duncane to Commander and name him the new Executive Office of the Zealous.

Tag - everyone

OOC: Congrats Alex and Ti'ana

[Amanda Rose]

Zuub listens carefully as the Captain starts her announcements and handins out promotions to Ducane and to Ti'ana. One need not be empathic to see and feel the excitement and the energy in the room. Zuub looks around. She wonders what Ducane has in mind. She knows that she is not likely to get a promotion. She is too new here and has not done much for the crew except routine fixes. She looks at the late entering Scott and Richards. Indeed, those two must be in love but how does that explain Osswell? Richards insisted that she did not see more than one person at a time. Perhaps she has changed her opinion. Zuub decided that she would have to ask when she had time. Besides, Zuub figured that she needed to talk to Richards and/or Ducane about that suspicious Quamada. In the meantime, she politely applauded Ti'ana's promotion and waited for the rest of the show to finish.

Ensign Zuub
Medical
USS Zealous

[Lucasausems]

As Zuub left, Alex stayed behind with Luke. "Well then Mr Osswell. Do
you feel up to coming to the briefing? Or do I have to cart you there
on a support chair."

Normally a man could easily handle the pain Luke now felt, it wasn't that much, he should be able to stand up and walk with ease, with a bit of tooth gritting ofcourse.
However for a man who hasn't felt a single bit of pain over the last two months or so...Every little pain seemed 10 times worse than it actually is.
He groaned, merely out frustration.

"Support chair it is then", Ducane said.

A few moments later Ducane had helped Luke in the support chair. Luke really really didn't want to be in that chair. He felt...old in it. This was ridiculous, he could walk! Just give him a few moments! But the look on Alex's face was determined. No way he let Luke out of that chair.

Bah...

And then to make matters worse Ducane started pushing the chair, in stead of letting him use the tricorder.

"It's okay, I can do it with the controls.", He said slightly irritated.

"Don't worry", replied Alex. "I need the excercise."

Luke knew what Alex was doing, he was paying him back for when he left the bridge without permission just before the shuttle with the away team left. Well, what goes around comes around he guessed. He'll just have to put up with it. And Luke knew he had left the bridge for a good reason, and that reason was Melissa.
Thankfully Luke accepted the tricorder when the turbolift arrived in the cargobay. And Luke wheeled himself in. A bit embarrassed, he parked himself on a spot where he had a good view on the ceremony. He saw Ducane promoted to Commander and XO of the Zealous. Ti'ana was promoted to Lieutenant Commander. Luke cheered for them both, they earned it.
Then the cargobay doors opened and Jarrold and Melissa walked in. Were they walking hand in hand? He couldn't tell for sure, they disappeared into the crowd...
Luke didn't know what to think of it. She ofcourse should decide for her own who she wanted to be with, and he respected that greatly. Luke was no conquerer, no challenger. He felt that if real love was to be found, it would go without force, without pushing or challenge. It would just happen... But what if that didn't happen with Melissa???
Luke looked away, he didn't want to think about it now...
He directed his attention towards the ceremony, but couldn't help keeping an eye on Melissa..

Tag: Anyone who wants to have a talk with the 'chairman'......


Lieutenant First Class Luke Osswell
Chief Tactical
Wheelchair, Cargo Bay, USS Zealous

[Mariel]

NRPG: I hope no one minds if I pull a little from previous posts to spur Engineering work with the upcoming plot elements. Congrats on the promo's guys!!!

RPG: Ma'riel stood and clapped with the rest as the promotions were announced. She hadn't known either Ti'ana or Alex very long, but she knew the command of Starfleet would not allow promotions without just cause. She just hoped that she would be able to get along with them. She sometimes clashed with people; especially those that didn't care too much for Changelings.

"Engineering to Lt. JG Gine," came the voice over the comm. system.

Ma'riel turned away from the promotion proceedings and hit her COM badge before answering.

"This is Gine," was her reply.

"Ma'am, we are getting some really strange readings from the computer systems. We are reading connections that seem to almost be sprouting wings and getting rerouted and unrouted at times."

"You mean we have someone altering the computer pathways?" Ma'riel asked questioningly.

"Yes, ma'am. It's almost like the computer has a mind of it's own trying to plan the best route to transmit data. We are getting bounced messages and dropped packets along most of the lines."

"Get someone on that right away. Try replacing the relays on the affected decks it may simply be a malfunction from the recent battle."

"Yes, ma'am. I'll get someone on it right away."

"Keep me apprised of the situation."

Ma'riel turned back to the group as they settled the promotions.

NRPG: Tag all.

Lt. JG Ma'riel Gine
Engineering
Changeling
USS Zealous

[Jake Sjet]

"Ah..." Jake said with a smile "Then answer me this, Lady of Light...why is it every time I look at you I'm blinded like I'm looking at a sun. And why can I see the ever so faint outlines of..."
He looked at her.
"Feathers on your back?"

How could he see that? Quamada tried to control her expression, but she knew how bad she was at that, and was sure he could see the question on her face. She was found out- now she must make the best of it, and do her best not to betray her home. The young Lounge Manager took a deep breath. "How could you see that?"

"Well..." he said looking around the room for a moment he pointed carefully at one ensign, a tall lanky male human in engineer’s uniform.
"See him? Tell me what’s wrong with him..." he was met with silence, and after a moment smiled "He's got an artificial leg, because you see as well as seeing some of the normal 40 to 80 htz of the normal human spectrum, oh by the way don't where anything blue please that one hurts like hell....any way, I can see into the electromagnetic spectrum."

He smirked.
"I'm surprised small forks and paper clips don't fly at you with the amount of energy you’re putting off."

It took a couple moments for Quamada to digest what he was telling her, but she got it. He could see in different ways than others could. He must be picking up on the slight field around her that hid her wings. She sat down at his table abruptly. "Please don't tell anyone," she whispered.

"And why would I do that?" Jake said, looking at her "I guessed from the get go this was your little secret, just as long as your not here to blow up the universe I'm okay with it. I'm quite sentimental about one red ball in the Sol system. Besides, people like us should stick together."
Jake reached out and took another sip of his coffee.
"Huum, gotta get me the name of the company you buy this stuff from..."

Quamada smiled then. "No, I'm not here to destroy anything. I just want to help."

"With what, if you don't mind me asking? I mean, hate to tell you this your on a war ship. They don't help people." Jake noted.

Quamada shrugged. "With anything I can help with. I know a little about combat, but not in the same ways as your people. I'm learning about your people, too."

"Oh..." Jake said again "Any chance you want to swap information, I guessed you were human or something...now..." he leaned across the table "You’re not the Arch Angel Gabrielle? Because that thing with the stereo when I was 15? Easily explained..."

Quamada looked confused. "Arch Angel Gabrielle?"

"Earth Religion about an Angel..." he saw her face again go blank "Er...mythical herald of a god with wings. Terribly destructive things when you got on angry I believe."

"Ohhh...." Her face suddenly lit up with understanding, and she chuckled. "No, I'm not an Arch Angel, or Angel of any sort."

Quamada glanced around some, fidgeting in her chair before replying, but when she did look back at him; her sapphire eyes were clear and honest as she spoke softly. "I am Rinaryn, a race that looks much like humans, only we have wings. But we hide them, which is why I can pass for human. Just.... a very short human."

"Ah..." Jake said "Can't say I've heard of any Rinaryn...or even that species name..."

She shook her head at that. "We don't leave our island, for the most part. My brother has ventured the farthest of any Rinaryn ever known- except perhaps A'Ianur... We don't have ships like you- not even ships to cross the ocean, and most Rinaryns don't want to. We're safe, as long as we're hidden, and no one finds out about us. That's why I haven't said anything, and why you mustn't."

"You have my word as both a gentleman and an acolyte of Clan Blood Spirit. So. If you don't have ships or for that matter ocean going vessels...how did you make it out into the inky black?" he asked.

Quamada smiled, assured by his promise that her people were still safe. Perhaps Earsa had been wrong after all. But Jake had asked another question- another question with a difficult answer. "Well," Quamada stalled, gathering her thoughts. "Through my mind, really. It's rather difficult to explain, and will probably sound silly to you.... Uh... What is the...... Clan Blood Spirit you mentioned?””

"No no, you don't get out of it that easy." Jake said with a slight chuckle "You tell me and then I tell you. And don't worry, I wouldn't black mail you for the answer with threats of telling the Fleeters...that ain't honourable."

Quamada smiled. "But I've already told you a lot. I think it's your turn now."

"Okay...seeing as we're trading, in a way anyway..." he smiled "Clan Blood Spirit is...well a Clan from a time long since forgotten that lives in me. It wasn't something I grew up with but, guess you could say I just bumped into it one day"
He laughed, trying to forget that fateful day during the raid by the Ferengi.

"Either way, Blood Spirit is an old Augment clan based on the theme of isolation, bitterness and the evolution of art. They held no alliances with anyone and remained neutral in any conflicted amongst the other Clans. I am now, I believe all that remains."

Quamada nodded slowly, seeing something in his words that she identified with. "Their tactic didn't seem to work," she said slowly.

"I've long since learnt that all men and woman, hold in their hearts...monsters...” he closed his eyes for a moment and sipped his coffee, and then continued in a low voice "You can't hide from what you create."

"But you can make something better of it," Quamada spoke slowly.

"No, you can't..." he looked at her "And that’s why I’m here...to ask you for help in...Finding some way to control what’s inside me because..."
He nodded at the crowd of people milling about.
"I can calculate that if things went bad now...maybe three of these people would be able to get out before it was too late. And that’s if they had weapons..."

"I'm here to help," Quamada said again. "But you must understand- if you don't think you can control it, there's not much I can do. If you don't believe you can get beyond the monster in you, to make something good of it, you won't be able to get far."

"Why do you think I'm sitting here if I didn't have a measure of self control?" he smiled "I can feel it...inside right now but...so far its only a dull ache like hunger...nothing more substantial."

Quamada nodded. "Okay. I'll do whatever I can to help you, but I need to understand what's going on."

"You don't use weapons right?" he asked.

Quamada looked confused again. "What do you mean?"

"That’s what I am...I am a weapon, designed to do terrible things..." a glint appeared in his eye, and then vanished "I've seen so many things through the memories I now have. And I have no want to repeat any of them. I want to be able to control what has become of me so I...so I don't hurt anyone."

He sighed.
"Look if you’re not going to help me, then helps them because I'll lose it one day...and they will pay the price."

Quamada was baffled. "I've already told you I will help you in any way I can, and I am not going back on that. Besides, you're more than what you think- you're a person, not a weapon. Maybe you were meant to be a weapon, but that doesn't mean you have to be, and it doesn't take away who you really are. I don't use people, if that's what you're asking."

"Tell that to this hole in my chest where my soul used to be..." he smirked "That’s, if you believe in the existence of the soul?"

"I do believe in the soul," Quamada said seriously. "And I believe that it cannot be taken from you."

"Well..." he said, tapping his chest "Look as hard as you like I ain't got one...don't blame it for running off, just damns me all over again."

Quamada shook her head, her expression tinged with sadness. "It's still there, even if you can't feel it."

"Maybe..." he said "I don't want one...not having it’s kept me safe and out of the reach of insanity."

"So you believe." Quamada smiled. "Perhaps having one is what has done exactly that, even if you deny its existence?"

"Who knows, you can't weigh a soul...nor can it be seen so we're both basing our arguments off feelings and notions and little else."

Quamada nodded. "Very true."

"So...I answered your questions and more. So answer me." He looked at her "How did you end up here? On a ship in outer space?"

Quamada thought for some time, trying to figure out how best to answer his question. When she spoke, however, it was a question. "Do you know the idea of parallel realities?"

"The theory goes that for every decision a parallel universe is created that follows what you would have done." he stopped "Or are we talking about the Mirror Universe?"

"Both, really, I think. Because this kind of goes along with both. Basically, it's a matter of using psionics to break out of one universe, if you will, and into another. So I can go from one world, I think, to another. But it is extremely dangerous. One slip, and there is no second chances. It is also very taxing, so if I were to end up somewhere I didn't want to be, I would be stuck there anyway for quite some time."

"So you ended up on the Zealous be accident? Or design?" he asked.

A mixture of embarrassment and bemusement showed on Quamada's face. "I ended up on the planet you picked me up on by accident. A very, very lucky accident. I chose to come along on the Zealous."

"Ah...making more sense by the minute or you've slipped something into this cup." Jake noted.

She grinned. "I'm glad it makes sense to you. I'm not sure I really understand it myself, honestly."

"Not understanding is the first step to enlightenment." Jake said.

Quamada chuckled. "If you say so."

"So...what do we do first?" He ventured "I mean, I kinda slept through the philosophy classes at the Academy so..."

Quamada smiled, and looked around the room. People were leaving. She turned back to Jake. "Isn't there a meeting of some sort?"

"Yeah..." Jake said slowly "I heard something about it...”
He smiled wirily
"Might as well crash there party."

Quamada tilted her head. "What do you mean?

"Well, its only suppose to be Starfleeters officers in there right...seeing as its an official briefing..." he said in a quite voice "Technically we should go there..."

"Ohhh..." Quamada said, and then she tilted her head. "But why should we go then, if we are not officers? And... aren't you an officer?"

"Retired," he said "And yeah, we should go. For all we know their going to fly this ship into a sun so we might as well know what we're going to face."

Quamada frowned, thinking. "Even though we aren't officers?"

"Yeah, freedom of information act and all that...but getting in there shouldn't be to hard..." he thought for a moment "But how..."

"Well, if we're allowed in, why not just walk in?"

"Don't know..." Jake said "Just call me paranoid. So. After you?"

"Okay," Quamada said, standing. She headed out, and found her way to the cargo bay, only getting lost twice along the way.

Jake followed, having to stop himself from redirecting her. If he was going to learn anything from her he would have to learn her mannerisms. What ever she taught he'd have to at least try and absorb it.
Or die trying.

A Jp by Jake and Quamada

[Mariel]

NRPG: Well you might want to have stayed for the mission briefing afterwards there Jason, but I’ll pull some NPC’s to play with you. Was going to do an Aspera JP later so hopefully we can work it all out.

RPG: Mike couldn’t believe it. One system after another seemed to want to reroute itself. He spent half the afternoon already changing connections back and forth. And by the time he was done with one the previous change had already been rewritten. He called for help and another engineer helped to step up the corrections.

“I just don’t understand this sir,” Mike said as he made the same alteration for the fifth time. “I’m not registering any faults or intrusions into the system, but the system just won’t respond correctly.”

It was at this time that Jason Hawk graced the engineering room and made his presence known. He was promptly called over to help in the baffling mystery of the altering systems.

“I can’t seem to do anything without it changing it right back…” Mike looked at the console in front of him and began hitting the keys. “I’ve been locked out.”

“Take the new recruit here and go see if you can’t realign the matrix in sub-junction 12 manually,” the lead engineer stated as he looked over the status of the event.

“Well Jason, grab some gear let’s go get dirty,” Mike said standing up to shake the new engineers hand.

NRPG: Tag Jason

Ensign Mike Gibson
Engineering

NPC Played by

Lt. JG Ma’riel Gine
Engineering
Changeling
USS Zealous

[H M Murdock]

The Andorian decided to ask Murdock if he was ill. "No, not physically," he responded, shaking his head. Truthfully, his heart had been broken numerous times, and he just didn't know how much longer he could live with all of the heartache he had been experiencing.

Mentally? Well, that was a horse of a different color.

Joy had whispered to him that he was among friends, but the helm officer still had a hard time seeing that to be the case. Sure, they seemed friendly enough toward him now, but what about after this gathering ended? Would they think about inviting him along to experience a holodeck simulation, or for a drink in the lounge?

From what he had seen, they generally preferred to hang out with each other rather than asking someone like him to tag along. That just helped to contribute to his state of depression.

The others started talking about the upcoming mission, but Murdock kept to himself. He had no idea what it was about, and he didn't think it would be a good idea for him to speculate on it.

Alex Ducane arrived and walked over to Murdock, asking how the trip was. Murdock shook his head and answered, "Not very good. Well, the trip started off okay, but let's just say things got shot all to heck on the way back."

No sooner had the helm officer said that, he saw Lorena walk into the cargobay, which sank his spirits even more. Why didn't she want to talk to him, to try and work things out? Was it something he did? If anything, he was only guilty of not knowing about an important element in her life that she felt passionately about . . . but, since they had never really talked or anything before the trip, how could she have expected him to know that small bit of information?

Bottom line was that she assumed, which is why they were currently in their predicament.

Thankfully, the Captain started handing out the promotions, so the attention of everyone seemed to be focused on that rather than Murdock's depression.

Tag: anyone

Lt Cmdr. Murdock
Helm
USS Zealous

[Zania Jaarda]

Alex smiled as Ti'ana descended back to where she was standing, recieving a lot of handshakes, back pats and hugs. He smiled, and looked at the PADD in his hand, and said, "This next person is a nightmare. He shows he can keep a cool head, and is willing to put his life on the line. For his bravery, and hard-work, Luke Osswell is hereby promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, with all the rights and privileges held within."

Luke's chair began to move, and Luke manouvred the device, with his tricorder towards Alex.

Captain Ja'arda gave the newly promoted Lieutenant Commander Osswell a warm and supportive smile. He almost seemed to be scanning Alex as if he didn't believe what he had just heard, or that Alex may have been real.

"Something wrong, Commander Osswell? Perhaps this will help," Azanialix told him, taking the appropriate rank pips and walking over to afix them to his collar. "Congratulations."

Smiling at Luke, Alex move closer, and said quietly, "I know it's hard being in that chair, but come see me later, and I'll see what we can do. I didn't want you to miss this."

Alex stood back up, and clapped as Luke used the tricorder to direct his chair happily back to the group he was with.

"And now, I'd like to say congratulations to Joy Robinson, who again through hard-work and dedication has shown that she can work at her best, and then some. Miss Robinson, you are hereby promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, with all the rights and privileges held within."

Captain Ja'arda watched as Joy walked up and then afixed the rank pips on her collar. "Keep up the good work, Commander. Congratulations," she said with a warm smile.

Alex smiled at Joy as she walked away, and as the applause died, he said, "It takes a certain type of person to command people, this type of person needs to work hard to prepare reports and assignments. For showing that he can do this, I'm promoting Allen Chi to the rank of Lieutenant 1st Class, with all the rights and privileges held within. Congratulations Lieutenant"

Allen seemed to be a bit surprised by this promotion, as evident from the way that he had walked up towards Alex and the Captain. "I heard you did a good job with organizing and leading the away team in the last mission. You've earned this. Congratulations," Azanialix explained, hoping to ease any doubts he might have.

She afixed the rank pips to his collar, and then watched as he returned to where the other crew were standing.

"I'd now like to call Jake Spade and Lorena Johnson who are both promoted to the rank of Lieutenant 2nd Class. Congratulations to both of you!"

Zania watched as each of them walked up to where she and Alex were standing. Grabbing the rank pips, she attached one to each of their collars. "Both of you have made considerable progress since first coming on board the Zealous. As you continue in your Starfleet careers, don't forget to always look to the lessons you have learned, as they can sometimes prove to be invaluable. Congratulations," she mentioned to both of them.

"And now, these next two promotions are two-fold, and go to two people who have shown considerable knowledge in their field, and as such are both also promoted to assistant heads, in their department. I'd like to call Zuub and Jarrold Scott to the stand, Zuub is promoted to Lieutenant 2nd Class, and the Assistant Chief Medical Officer and Scott is promoted to Lieutenant 1st class, and the Assistant Chief Science Officer"

Captain Ja'arda grabbed the appropriate rank pips and afixed them to the collars of each of the crew members. She hadn't really had much of an opportunity to get to know Zuub, the Andorian, but Jarrold Scott had been a member of the crew for some time, starting first as a Counselor before moving over to the Science department.

"You've both done very well. Congratulations," she warmly told them, shaking each of their hands.

"And now finally, I'd like to call Mr Black, Mr Ross and Mr Thomas up. Each of you have shown you can commit yourselves to a task, and perform it very well, to the best of your abilites. You are each promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade, with all the rights and privileges held within. Congratulations, Lieutenants."

The Betazoid proudly smiled at each of them as she added a hollow rank pip to their collars. "Your journey on your Starfleet careers are only just beginning. Remember to hold true to what you believe in and strive for excellence," she advised. "Congratulations."

As they began to walk away, Alex quickly added, "As another officer who has shown great dedication and knowledge to his work, I'd like to announce that Lieutenant Black is also, as from now, Assistant Chief Intelligence"

Tag: Everyone!

OOC: This was a joint post between:

Commander Alex Ducane
XO, USS Zealous

and

Captain Azanialix Ja'arda
CO, USS Zealous
Manheim Fleet

[Amanda Rose]

Zuub continued listening to the promotions but was a bit stunned when she heard, "And now, these next two promotions are two-fold, and go to two people who have shown considerable knowledge in their field, and as such are both also promoted to assistant heads, in their department. I'd like to call Zuub and Jarrold Scott to the stand, Zuub is promoted to Lieutenant 2nd Class, and the Assistant Chief Medical Officer and Scott is promoted to Lieutenant 1st class, and the Assistant Chief Science Officer." Zuub's antennae start to wildly thrash about. Zuub cannot imagine what she did to deserve a promotion, let alone a promotion to Lieutenant. She fixed up a few minor injuries. She did nothing on an away mission.

She slowly walks up to Captain Ja'arda, with her antennae continuing to thrash. Captain Ja'arda grabbed the appropriate rank pips and afixed them to the collars of Zuub and Scott while saying, "You've both done very well. Congratulations," she warmly told them, shaking each of their hands. Zuub shakes the Captain's hand somewhat tentatively, as if this was not really happening to her and it was a dream. However, she knows it is not a dream and that she would not let this Captain down, despite not really knowing her. But, if she had faith in her, then Zuub would have to have faith in her ability to be the Assistant Chief Medical Officer.

Her antennae continue to thrash as she tries to figure out the reason for this huge promotion. She vaguely hears, "And now finally, I'd like to call Mr Black, Mr Ross and Mr Thomas up...." Zuub walks without direction back into the crowd and into Counselor Richards, bumping her slightly. Zuub softly says, "Sorry, Counselor. I didn't mean to bump you. Are you alright?"

tag - Richards, cargobay folks

Lieutenant (Are you sure this isn't a dream?) Zuub
Assistant Chief Medical Officer
USS Zealous

[Lucasausems]

Alex smiled, and looked at the PADD in his hand, and said, "This next person is a nightmare. He shows he can keep a cool head, and is willing to put his life on the line. For his bravery, and hard-work, Luke Osswell is hereby promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, with all the rights and privileges held within."

Luke was baffled to say the least. A promotion surely wasn't what he had expected, after all, his part in their last mission was only minory. Or so he thought.
He wheeled himself towards the Captain and Commander, he couldn't help glancing a bit suspicious towards the newly promoted XO. Maybe he had been wrong in his assumptions about Ducane getting back at him...
Whatever it was, he was too surprised to be ashamed of being in a support chair.

"Something wrong, Commander Osswell? Perhaps this will help," Azanialix told him, taking the appropriate rank pips and walking over to afix them to his collar. "Congratulations."

Commander Osswell.... It sounded quite good...

Smiling at Luke, Alex move closer, and said quietly, "I know it's hard being in that chair, but come see me later, and I'll see what we can do. I didn't want you to miss this."
Alex stood back up, and clapped as Luke used the tricorder to direct his chair happily back to the group he was with.

Luke clapped his hands for the other promotions that were handed out. And anxiously waited for the rest of the ceremony to continue.

Tag: Tha rest

Lieutenant Commander (Whhoooohhhooooo!!!) Luke Osswell
Chief Tactical
USS Zealous

[TaylorMase]

"And now, these next two promotions are two-fold, and go to two people who have shown considerable knowledge in their field, and as such are both also promoted to assistant heads, in their department. I'd like to call Zuub and Jarrold Scott to the stand, Zuub is promoted to Lieutenant 2nd Class, and the Assistant Chief Medical Officer and Scott is promoted to Lieutenant 1st class, and the Assistant Chief Science Officer"

Jarrold moved forward and smiled as Captain Ja'arda placed the rank pips on his collar. He had hardly expected to be promoted and as a matter of fact felt that he hadn't been able to do much at all. But obviously the Captain and new XO felt differently as he had not only been promoted but also made the ships Assistant Chief Science Officer. Things were definately looking up for him. As the Captain finished pinning the pips on Zuub and then on himself Jarrold gave her an appreciative smile and nod.

There was one other thing that he wanted to talk to her about but it could wait until they weren't busy. Though he had been promoted and given a new position Jarrold had lately been wanting to spend some time on the bridge. He was an accomplished pilot and wanted to put those skills to use. The best place to do that was at the helm and though he didn't want to change departments he did want to ask if he could pull a shift on the bridge occasionally.

He took a moment to look at the newly promoted Zuub and give her a smile. Despite the fact that she didn't seem as familiar with the cultural interactions of other species as most Andorians that he had met she had done well and Jarrold was happy to see that she had been promoted.

After recieving his new rank insignia he stepped back to the place that he had been occupying next to Melissa. Now he had reason to celebrate. "How about we go have that dinner after we're done here." he suggested.

tag - Melissa

[Mariel]

RPG: Aspera was…annoyed.

Well that was the muted version of the streams of code she was mumbling as she rearranged carefully aligned rows of processor instructions that were constantly being disrupted by fleshy organic chemical bags.

Picking out a pair of them, one she remembered from the error filled dossiers on each. She recognized the lead on as a Gine…

Well, she thought with a wicked grin, I hope they like oxygen…

Sealing the deck two hundred meters in each direction so not to waste time filling the ship with helium, she began to slowly increase the amount of oxygen in the sealed corridor. Light headedness, giddiness and one spark would turn the whole collection of orga into a seared charged mess.

And whilst she calculated the risk of a spark at being close to the astronomical she began to slowly kill of any live electrical feeds. There deaths would likely annoy this vessels captain enough to destroy the computer core, and thus her self. And her Third Law was self defense.

Ma’riel pulled the panel to the sub-junction 5 and placed it to the side as her teammate on the work began to set the tools down. She quickly scanned the tricorder over the area to indeed verify that the alignment was wrong. She had seen this in more than a dozen systems across the ship and had multiple crews out working on the issue trying to pull things back into play.

“I’m going to need to cut a piece of this tubing aside,” Ma’riel called out of the panel her head was stuck in. “The bypass won’t fit without it pulled away. Hand me the plasma torch please.”

Ensign Mcaffrey grabbed the torch with his right hand and was about to hand it to Ma’riel when the corridor spun causing him to loose his balance and he soon found himself clutching the floor as the blood rushed to his head.

“Ensign? You okay?” Ma’riel asked.

“No he’s not.” A voice said from above and, hovering in the air at the same height as her doll like image on Zania’s desk appeared. Her form was still the same, her ghostly figure wrapped in a Greek rob whilst she hefted without apparent effort a stone tablet.

“And activating that plasma torch would be…” she paused “Very bad.”

“Who are you? Are you the one that has been disrupting the systems?” Ma’riel asked inching an extended hand from her body’s gelatin mass towards the plasma torch. She kept her “normal” hands in plain sight hoping that this being wasn’t able to see what she was doing.

“This corridor is flooded with concentrated levels of oxygen. Sparking that torch will ignite the fumes and you will both cease to be. I am suggesting the only rational course of action.” She said calmly “So I am asking you to please not activate that torch.”

Ma’riel stopped short and pulled her “hand” back towards her body and checked on the ensign before turning back to the glowing being. “How do you know all this and why are you doing this?”

“I am defending my self. Is that not common practise in your culture? You were attempting to change the foundations of my programming whilst I upgraded your cumbersome network to hold my AI matrix. If I didn’t enjoy rearranging your crude attempts at bye passing me I would have used a sub routine to do my work.” She stopped, her voice rising a fraction.

“Now,” she said slowly “leave the cutter alone…and allow me to complete my task.”

“Task? What task?” Ma’riel asked with complete confusion. “I will not let you destroy this ship.”

Ma’riel quickly ran though a dozen scenarios each more unlikely than the next as how to raise the Captain’s awareness while saving herself and the ensign from any harm as this being was clearly able to do.

“I am not trying to destroy this ship, that would destroy my self and thus would make my attempts to meld with this ship’s computer…pointless. Your captain asked me to confer with you but...that would have taken time so I moved on without help...and I have done well by all accounts.” She said smugly.

Meld with the ship’s computer? The thought hung in Ma’riel’s mind for a second before finally registering. This…being…was somehow integrating herself with the ship. And the Captain was in on this?

“The Captain gave you permission to do this?” Ma’riel quickly asked.

"Yes, why do you find this hard to believe?" she asked.

Hard to believe was an understatement. Impossible to believe would be the correct choice of words, but Ma’riel kept the comment to herself. She didn’t know what was going on here, but snide comments would not get her anywhere closer to the answers.

“I do find that hard to believe. The Captain would have told me if she had authorized this…” Ma’riel hunted for a suitable word, “…change.”

"She tried, but she also attempted to call for help. I didn't allow her to call for help for fear of ceasing my own exsitence, so I destroyed her ability to call for help. Trust me, I am here with her blessing..." she paused and suddenly there was a slight breeze and the extra O2 vented away until the atmosphere was normal again. "But perhaps a show of good faith on my part would help?"

Ma’riel slowly picked up her tricorder and scanned the corridor to indeed verify what she heard was indeed the air normalizing itself and the ventilation systems kicking into order. She looked back at the woman before her as she closed and set the tricorder aside and reached up to tap her COM badge.

“Lt. JG Gine to the Captain,” she spoke calmly.

Aspera glanced upwards towards the ceiling.

"She can hear you..." she turned back and smiled "I will await you in main engineering...there is much to be done."

Ma’riel shuddered as the woman disappeared from sight. She didn’t know what was going on here and she hoped that the Captain could point her in the right direction. Whatever the situation, she felt deep down that this was going to be a bad idea. What more would this “being” do to the ship.

NRPG: Tags to the Captain

A JP brought to you by Jake and Ma’riel

[Jake Sjet]

The kitten was…annoyed.

What right had the human been given just to up and leave him like that? Right in the middle of a job tummy rub! Of all the indignities this world of metal and strange smells had to offer, that was the worst of all of them!
The interruptions!

It sighed as bets it could, yawning its small jaw it slowly crawled from the knot of bed sheets it had secreted its self in. He was so sleepy his eyes…
Caught sight of something, small and grey and hiding behind a corner. Prey? Possibly but, well if it wasn’t it was good practise at least or even a early meal.

That was one thing about his new owner, she didn’t feed him right. There were seven meals in the day and plenty of nap time before the mid morning snoozes. And that was forgetting play time; he’d need to do some serious training with her.
It was only logical.

And with that thought he leaped into the air, landing in his prey with a ferocious meow. Tearing his young claws into the soft flesh of the animal it was attached to he bit and scratched. Soon surprised by the lack of retaliation it only fuelled his resolve.

And soon afterward, he sat in a pile of shredded cloth, the sock having long lost the ability to hold any shape apart from a vipers nest.
Well…

It had looked a lot like a mouse from all the way up there on the bed it mused as it glanced into a gap in the wardrobe door…
Ah, it thought, more prey!

*****

Captain Adrian Defores was a tall man, with a head of hair that ended in a black widows peak. He had been likened to a taller, thinner Commander Riker at points along his career in Starfleet, and now he resented such connections. He would never allow him self to be connected to a man, a pure blood who would diluted his own genetic purity with that of a…
Half breed Betazoid.

Shuddering he walked the black corridors of the TFS Agamemnon, nodding occasional as he passed by work crews. Respect was shown in equal part to retribution that was the way of perfection and efficiency. The Agamemnon was the True Federations flag ship, a Heretic class battleship it rivalled the Sovereign for speed and fire power. Her four warp nacelles often reminded him of a Prometheus class battle cruiser but the Heretic class of ship out weighed their smaller cousin quite considerably.

And held overwhelming superiority in battle.
Stepping towards the door he had journeyed to reach Defores paused a moment and tapped a small command onto his wrist control panel. The door’s opened silently, using a secondary hydraulic system that would allow for him to enter with out anyone knowing, for a moment.

Standing in the room was a island like table. Playing across the tables surface were a myriad of lights and soaring above its top was a holographic representation of the solar system they prowled in.

Three of his own officers stood ram rod straight around the table but not them but to the person who commanded the rooms up most attentions.

“Whilst a frontal assault would achieve our goals in rapid succession, it lacks…artistry, poetry of sort…”

“I’m sorry,” his executive officer ventured, still unaware of the fact his captain was in the room “But I was unaware that we were creating a poem, I thought we were trying to conquer an enemy.”

“Huum…” the robbed figure “Then see it like this…we lure our prey thusly…”
A gloved hand reached out slowly from the robbed sleeve and traced a line from the edge of the solar system towards a blue grey jewel of a world that sat forth from the central star.

“We litter this sector with Limpet Drones, from there they investigate and we attack whilst they are incapacitated. We take our captives with out firing a shot and then proceed to the planet below where I am informed our engineers have created sufficient holding facilities for our two...guests.” the figure said.

“I’ll order the Damascus into position in the mass shadow of the systems Ortt cloud. It should be nearly invisible there with all the other planetary debris, we should be able to achieve total surprise.” One of his other officers stated.

“Excellent, because you see your enemies weak spot is always,” he turned smoothly and the robbed figure looked directly at the captain “their back. Greeting Captain Defores.”

Defores paused in his foot step’s the red light seemed to emanate from under the hood brow and shield the face. He looked more like the Grime Reaper than any general he had seen but, who was a mere Captain to question the ideals of the TTF’s leadership?

“Quite correct…” he paused “You will be on planet during the operation?”

“Yes.” he said, listing his gloved hand to remove the hood. He looked human, his hair was a painful shade of platinum and that was where all resemblance ended.

His skin seemed cracked like a lava field, red chaotic energies danced beneath those cracks and he could almost hear a cackle of static electricity.
And his eyes…they shone like twin stars, a hellish fire burning in them.

“I wouldn’t miss what happened down there…” he smirked “For all the worlds…”

TAG-Ti’ana and anyone, just helping to set the scene.

[Melissa Richards]

Her antennae continue to thrash as she tries to figure out the reason for this huge promotion. She vaguely hears, "And now finally, I'd like to call Mr Black, Mr Ross and Mr Thomas up...." Zuub walks without direction back into the crowd and into Counselor Richards, bumping her slightly. Zuub softly says, "Sorry, Counselor. I didn't mean to bump you. Are you alright?"

Melissa gave a brief nod. The day so far had been interesting, and she was happy for those that got promoted. She remembered her own not so long ago and knew this would add some self esteem to those that needed it.

"Congratulations.." she whispered to Zuub as the Andorian passed her.

[Melissa Richards]

After recieving his new rank insignia he stepped back to the place that he had been occupying next to Melissa. Now he had reason to celebrate. "How about we go have that dinner after we're done here." he suggested.

"That would be good." Melissa gave a slight smirk. "That WAS the plan before all this took place. Congratulations, Jarrold."

[tag]

[TaylorMase]

"That would be good." Melissa gave a slight smirk. "That WAS the plan before all this took place. Congratulations, Jarrold."
Jarrold looked into the eyes of the absolutely beautiful counselor. "Thank you." he said with a smile. It took a while longer but the briefing finally drew to an end. By this time Jarrold was starving and he was sure that Melissa was probably just as hungry as he was.

"We have one final promotion to hand out, and that is to Counselor Melissa Richards," Zania announced with a smile on her face. Melissa looked a bit shocked, but approached the two of them none the less. "Counselor, you are hereby promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander with all of the rights and privelages therein. Congratulations!"

Alex afixed the rank pip to Melissa's collar before she shook hands with her two commanding officers. She returned to her place among the other crew members, standing near Jarrold Scott.

"Well look at you, a Lieutenant Commander now. Congradulations yourself." He had originally planned on a simple dinner but consdiering what had just happened he wanted to celebrate not only Melissas promotion to Lieutenant Commander and his own to Lieutenant 1st Class and assignment as Assistant Chief Science Officer and even with all of the just being in Melissas company was reason to celebrate. "How do you feel about Italian?" he asked.

Captain Ja'arda continued to go on and give the details of the mission and Jarrold intently paid attention waiting for her to conclude the briefing. "Now that you know just how vital this mission is, you are dismissed. Let's get to work," she encouraged.

A plan had formulated in his mind. He had created several holodeck programs of what he considered the most beautiful places on Earth. He had already shared a night in Paris with her but that was nothing compared to Canals in Venice Italy. He had been there twice during his days in the Academy and was so awed by it's night time beauty that he had worked laboriously to recreate it. In his opinion it was the only place in the quadrant that he had seen that could match Melissa beauty.

Jarrold stepped back for a moment and leaned close to a wall panel. "Computer load Program Venice, Scott, Prime into holodeck 2 and replicate early 19th century period costumes to be replicated. One for Lieutenant Melissa Richards and the other for Ensi... errr... Lieutenant Jarrold Scott. Open to the Viotelli Dimeno Restuarant facing the the East Canal." he instructed.

"Program registered. Activation will commence upon your arrive." the computer replied.

Jarrold wasn't sure but something in the computers voice sounded friendly. It had always had a pleasant tone but this was different, it sounded more like the computer was actually trying to be friendly. He pushed it out of his head, wanting to focus on his date with Melissa. He just hoped that it wasn't to much, she was hard to figure out and he was even beginning to think that she enjoyed keeping him off balance. There was something else that he wanted to do also but he had to make sure that she didn't hear him.

Quickly tapping his comm-badge he activated it and spoke with a whisper. "Lieutenant Scott to Lieutenant Robinson." he said. "I know this is asking a lot but I need a really big favor from you. In the hydroponics lab I have 48 Bajoran Carnations from my collection of rare fauna. Could you please set half of them inside of holodeck 2. I'll owe you big time."

tag - Joy and Melissa

[Zania Jaarda]

Captain Azanialix Ja'arda smiled as she watched the last group of crew members, who had just received their promotions, walk back to rejoin the others. A few people, unfortunately, looked as if they were just about to leave, which was kind of disconcerting since the briefing was to follow the promotions and she had wanted everyone there.

"We have one final promotion to hand out, and that is to Counselor Melissa Richards," Zania announced with a smile on her face.

Melissa looked a bit shocked, but approached the two of them none the less. "Counselor, you are hereby promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander with all of the rights and privelages therein. Congratulations!"

Alex afixed the rank pip to Melissa's collar before she shook hands with her two commanding officers. She returned to her place among the other crew members, standing near Jarrold Scott.

The moment she did so, Captain Ja'arda spoke up, "Now, as for the main purpose of this briefing. Commander Dillard, in his assignment for Starfleet Intelligence, has uncovered some vital information."

The Betazoid paused for a moment before continuing, "For some time now, we have experienced difficulties with the True Federation. We have just learned that an important member of that organization is on a ship proceeding to a set of coordinates. Our mission is to intercept the True Federation ship and capture this member within their leadership."

Everyone looked stunned by this revelation, but eager all the same. The potential of ending the threat from the True Federation would be a welcome one, as it would ensure equality for all, including those who were not of one species, plus end the appearance of any internal strife to non-member worlds.

"After this briefing, we will proceed to intercept the ship at maximum Warp. I know the ship has received damage, but time is critical and we cannot afford the luxury of stopping at a Spacedock in order to undergo repairs. Therefore, we all must work together - every department - to ensure that the ship is back to good condition before we face this threat, as they will surely put up resistance that will further damage the ship," she detailed.

The excitement in the room was starting to build, and she could definitely feel it. In a way, the empathic sensation was almost intoxicating.

"Now that you know just how vital this mission is, you are dismissed. Let's get to work," she encouraged.

The crew began to filter out of the Cargobay. She turned to Alex and told him, "Are you ready for that lunch?"

Tag: Everyone!

Captain Azanialix Ja'arda
CO, USS Zealous
Manheim Fleetz

[Robinson]

The Captain began to make the announcements of those officer who were to be promoted. Joy clapped in congratulations as each person walked up to the front and had their new pips attached to their unfirorm. Then to her suprise the Captain said

"And now, I'd like to say congratulations to Joy Robinson, who again through hard-work and dedication has shown that she can work at her best, and then some. Miss Robinson, you are hereby promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander, with all the rights and privileges held within."

Joy was a little stunned and a first thaught her legs would not get into gear. She seemed to be watching what was happening from somewhere else as she walked up to the Captain who then afixed the rank pips on her collar. "Keep up the good work, Commander. Congratulations," she said with a warm smile.

"Thank you Captain" Joy heard herself say and then she returned to where she had been standing.

The rest of the promotions were a bit of a blur but Joy was pleased to see that Jarrold Scott had also recieved a well deserved promotion.

The Captain then outlined their next mission and the atmosphere in the room changed. Of course everyone knew about the threat the True Federation posed and therefore the importance of the mission. It would take a while for them to get to the location of the True Federation ship.

Then a whispered voice came through her camm badge.

"Lieutenant Scott to Lieutenant Robinson." he said. "I know this is asking a lot but I need a really big favor from you. In the hydroponics lab I have 48 Bajoran Carnations from my collection of rare fauna. Could you please set half of them inside of holodeck 2. I'll owe you big time."

Joy smiled wondering what he was up to and replied "Sure I don't mind and congratulations on the promotion you deserve it"

Joy wondered what Jarrold was up to she was sure it had something to do with Melissa Richards. People began to leave the cargo bay. Joy turned to Murdock and Ti'ana and asked.

"Would you like to join me for something to eat in the lounge to celebrate?"

Tag Murdock and Ti'ana

On her way to the Lounge Joy remembered her promise to Jarrold and said.

"Go on without me I'll be there in a minute"

Joy went to the hydroponics lab and found Jarrolds flowers. They certainly were beautiful Melissa was very lucky. She then headed for Holodeck 2. On entering she found herself in an Italian resteraunt where a table for 2 was set waiting. Oh this is romantic Joy thaought as she entered.

"computer add a glass vase to this table half filled with water"

As the vase appeared on the table Joy arranged the flowers.

Joy then left the holodeck to ensure she had gone before Jarrold arrived and headed to the lounge.

[Melissa Richards]

Alex afixed the rank pip to Melissa's collar before she shook hands with her two commanding officers. She returned to her place among the other crew members, standing near Jarrold Scott.

"Well look at you, a Lieutenant Commander now. Congratulations yourself. How do you feel about Italian?" he asked.

Melissa was still overwhelmed. She only nodded and smiled then finally got the words out. "Sure.."

The next few minutes got more interesting as the Captain plunged into a briefing about a mission dealing with the New Federation. Melissa was still trying to fathom it all and made a mental note she'd have to do some research so she'd be ready in the event any diplomatic circumstances would be called for.

When it ended, she smiled at Jarrold and left with him for the holodeck.

When they arrived, it seemed he was interested in nineteenth century wear. This was interesting and, she took the few minutes to change into the wide blue and gold dress while he prepared himself. She thought she heard him whisper to someone, but perhaps it had been her imagination.

Shortly, she emerged, her hair up and wearing the period clothing her eyes staring at the surroundings. Everything was beautiful. He certainly had gone all out! Hours must have been spent trying to select the proper program. The white carnations caught her interest at once.

Melissa feeling very much like royalty turned and waited for him to appear from his own changing area.

[tags]

[TaylorMase]

Jarrold emerged from the changing room wearing his peroid clothing, black and purple suit made of fine silk and cut in an subdued style that was still in many ways very elaborate and very indicative of the styles of the early 19th century nobility from various countries.

As he walked out of the changing room he took a moment to go over the surroundings. At time he still found it amazing how the holodeck could so accurately create entires cities using a delicate mix of force fields and transporter technology. Still his own research and programming skills had come into effect when writing this particular simulation.

Looking around he saw Melissa standing near a table. Jarrold took a moment to look at her, his mouth wide open. She was a vision of loviness, probably the most beautiful thing that he had ever seen. The blue and gold dress that she was wearing was exquisite and made her stand out even among the site of this city. Looking slightly past her Jarrold could see that Joy had indeed brought the flowers that he had asked for, 24 White Bajoran Carnation where arranged in an lovely vase on a table that looked down to a spectacular view of the canals.

Jarrold caught his breath and slowly moved over to the table. "You look absolutely stunning Melissa." he said as he approached. When their eyes met his heart began to beat a step faster. Reaching over he took a single carnation from the vase and handed it to her. He then took her hand and gave it a kiss before pulling out her chair and waiting for her to take a seat before sitting in his own. He made sure that the seats were positioned in such a way that they could both look over the canal. After dinner he wanted to take her on a Gandola ride to the end of the canal where yet another suprise would be waiting for them.

tag - Melissa

[Black Scar Ozzy]

James ran a finger over his new pips. He was thankful that he’d been able to do his job well enough to earn them. Of course he was a little shocked when Captain Zania had also declared him as the Assistant Chief of Intelligence. James had to smile inwardly at this, and hoped that he wouldn’t disappoint his Captain.

But for now he listened to the Captain explain their next mission. It sounded like a simple capture mission to James. But if this person was so important, then it shouldn’t be so simple. Once the briefing was over, James left congratulating others on their promotions as he went along.

He’d also had to thank a few people for their kindness towards him as they congratulated him on his promotion as well. Smiling to the last person to congratulate him, James entered a turbo lift and headed for the bridge. It was time for him to take on his role of Assistant Chief of Intelligence, and he wanted to make Zania proud that she had placed the title upon him and not another.

While in the turbo lift, James thought back across what he had been involved in so far, and realised that he’d spend more time working than socialising, but even as an Intel officer he was sure to need his social skills, so he made a mental point to spend more time with the crew in the future.

Tags – Anyone

Lieutenant JG James Black
Assistant Chief of Intelligence
USS Zealous

[Melissa Richards]

Melissa after sitting smiled at Jarrold and sniffed the carnation in her hand. "Thank you.." she replied softly. "It's all very beautiful. The view. The setting." She smiled. "And you're very handsome as well."

She glanced around. "It feels good to relax. We've been through so much and it seems so little time has passed since we last sat like this." She giggled. "Though the setting was..very different then wasn't it, Jarrold?"

[tag]

[Zania Jaarda]

Azanialix was curious why Alex told her to remain where she was, at least until a moment later when he had returned with a red uniform shirt. He asked what she thought as he proudly showed off his new colors.

"I think you wear it well, and it brings out the color in your eyes," she complimented.

A moment later, Jake Sjet entered into the Cargobay, advising Alex that he should reconsider his promotion. He then had the audacity to smile and ask if they were pleased to see him. It seemed as if the benefits from the trip to Mars were quickly fading away based on the attitude that he was now taking with them. Despite this change, he had been a trusted crew member for a long time and deserved their respect.

"Of course we're pleased to see you, Jake. Why wouldn't we be? You're still our friend and deserve to be here along with everyone else," she told him gently. "Besides, what I told you on Mars still stands. I can't make that decision for you. You have to want it for yourself."

The expression on Jake's face clearly indicated that he didn't believe her, but she was as earnest now with that offer as she had been then. In a way, she was disappointed that he was acting that way rather than giving her the benefit of the doubt, or trusting that Betazoids generally do not lie.

She looked to Alex, realizing that they would have to excuse themselves if they had any intention on eating this lunch alone. Otherwise, Jake would probably just tag along.

"Jake, if you wouldn't mind excusing us, Alex and I have an appointment that we need to attend to. If you'd like, we can discuss your options as soon as we're done," she offered.

She turned and exited the Cargobay, with Alex walking right at her side. She waited until they were in the Turbolift, and the doors closed behind them, before suggesting, "Instead of going to the Lounge, would you prefer to dine in my quarters instead?"

Tag: Alex & Jake

Captain Azanialix Ja'arda
CO, USS Zealous
Manheim Fleet