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ElaineDelgado

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Everything posted by ElaineDelgado

  1. M.A.S.H.
  2. There's so much that could be said about that...
  3. nails
  4. After calc, a fouth of the class all gets into THE most scary, wiggly old elevator on campus... and one day the guys were putting distance between themselves and a girl and I. I told the closest him I wouldn't bite... hard, anyways. Now he avoids the elevator. :rolleyes: Hehe... going to try some of those ideas tomorrow after class...
  5. nasty boy
  6. library
  7. Crispin sat down at the table and looked at Elaine. “Well, Elaine, you should try the Hardin. It's a lot like Mince Pie, but do not ask what meat they use. Me, I have not the stomach to ask. Pun intended.” Elaine was sitting across from Crispin wearing a sundress and smiling. “Alright, I think I shall. What do you plan on having?” “The Hardin. To tell you the truth, it is like the only thing I have eaten here that I can find anywhere delightful in taste.” Wanting to keep the conversation light, Juhdia added, “So, you look lovely. How has your day been?" She nodded at the compliment, “My day has been okay, but it is getting better... I'm getting to eat lunch with someone whose company I enjoy.” She smiled sweetly. Crispin smiled back, “Why Doctor, I do think you are flirting with me.” He gave her a sly wink. Elaine tugged on her ear, still smiling, “And how are you today?” "Ah, yeah, well, what can I say? Better too, now that I am with you.” Elaine leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. “And what have they had you off doing here? Taking tours as well, I suppose.” “No, we have been helping them with their Aqua-Gation System. Funny, but for a race that is advanced enough to travel the stars, they have left other more vital areas of their home world sorely in need of repair and advancement." “Well I must say that sounds more interesting than what we've been doing. I think we've seen everywhere inside of their main research facility, including the broom closets. They are quite large, lots of wonderful work being done... but not much to see, really. I am referring to the facilities of course, and not the broom closets.” “Sounds like this whole thing is a dog and pony show. Have you spoken with anyone else about what you have seen and what they have seen?” Elaine shrugged, “My team has sent their reports in like we're supposed to, but we've not had much contact with the other teams, no. Why do you ask?” Crispin mused, “It's just I find it odd, that they only have been showing us the icing, but not the bunt of the cake. You’re seeing everything, except for what really counts as an evaluation of their medical technology, and me and my people only being shown the outer workings of the Aqua-Gation System. I wonder what Brian and the rest have seen. I am going to have a word with him about this and...” Elaine ran a finger along his hand. “Do you really suspect them of something dreadful?” “…well, I had an incident with one of the Surma.” She looked up from his hand, “What kind of incident?” “I was being followed, and I am sure he was not there to make sure I did not get hurt or lost. Does a person that is watching you to protect you hide in the shadows? Well, I kinda grabbed him by the neck and slammed him against a wall.” Elaine squeezed Crispin's hand, “You did what?!” “I was defending myself, I thought he was going to attack me. I have not lived this long without learning a few things about people, no matter what race they are. And these Surma are up to something. Just have one of your people wander off and see what happens.” Crispin rested his other hand on Elaine's hand to ease her. “I really don't know if that's the wisest position to put one of my people. I would rather do it myself than send one of them.” Elaine relaxed her grip and just brushed his hand with her thumb. "I do not want you risking your life. Have EJ do it." Elaine laughed, “Please don't ask me to do that. Understand that I would rather risk my own life than live with the guilt that I put someone in a situation that was anything less than safe for them.” “Okay, then have one of those nameless crewmen you have scuttling about in sick bay. But seriously, I would rather you not be put in danger. But then again, I could be wrong. And again, how could I stop you." Elaine brought his hand up to her face and held it there. “I promise I'll be careful...” She grinned impishly. “I cannot resist that face. Also, you outrank me, Commander.” “Ah yes... and what is it you always tell me?” Elaine spoke in a mock deep voice, “Don't talk work, we're here to relax.” Then in her normal sweet voice again, “So relax for a bit, Old Man. It looks like our food is here.” She kissed his hand before sitting it down. “Yes ma'am.”
  8. ::gives him a special birthday lollypop:: Happy Birthday Goob.
  9. tornado
  10. catfish
  11. Crispin checked on Elaine's location and once he found she was not in her quarters he made his way there. With being on a new ship and still learning all the security clearance codes, he used some old fashioned engineer know how to break in. Once in he made his way to her bedroom and left a large box on her bed, with a note. “Meet me in the Holodeck. P.S.; bring ice skates” Elaine had already had quite a day. As she made her way to her quarters she thought about her patients, poor stir-crazy lads that some of them were. And her new Ensign, Eaglet or something like that, that she still needed to get to know better. And finally, the fact that they were on the Morningstar instead of the Excalibur, which was making paperwork a greater deal more difficult than usual. She let out an overly dramatic sigh and entered her quarters. The first thing she noticed was a box. A box? That had not been there when she had last left this room. She quickly opened it while reading the note, wondering what this mass of black cloth could be… Not too long later Elaine headed towards the Holodeck wearing a black dress and a pair of boots, the skates slung over one shoulder. Crispin stood waiting at the Holodeck, he looked at his pocket watch, “Hmm, where is she?” Elaine came up behind him and gave him a tap on his shoulder. “Hello,” she said with a smile. Crispin turned to Elaine, and in a stern and harsh tone, “You're late.” He then smiled and hugged Elaine, being overjoyed to see her again. Elaine stiffened at first, but then hugged him back. “You had me worried there for a moment. I was sure I had given myself enough time to get here.” She pulled back gently. “Glad to see you again, Old Man.” “Ah, I was so worried about you. Now, I have been working the last two days straight and needed some R&R. And with what happened to you, I thought you could use some as well.” He paused for a moment, then added, “Old man, why... Oh wait, you are right.” Crispin extended his arm to Elaine, “Shall we?” Elaine wrapped her arm around his, “We shall.” Crispin pressed the button and the doors opened, revealing inside not the steely walls of the Holodeck, but a lush wintry field, and in the distance was a fair. “I hope you know how to Ice Skate.” “It has been a while since I skated last... hopefully I won't require a trip to my own sickbay by the end of today.” “I will not let that happen. This is time for you to get over the worries of late.” As the two entered, the door and the outside world disappeared. Now it was only the two and the holographic people and animals. Elaine grinned, “Smell is close enough to snowy. You know, I didn't experience the real thing until I was thirteen-years-old?” “I remember my first snow like it was yesterday. Okay, no I do not, but I remember this. New England 1903, lovely year.” Crispin eyed Elaine, “And might I add you look lovely as well. I hope it fits.” Elaine nodded, “Thank you, it fits perfectly. And you look quite dashing yourself.” She looked down at her dress. “It’s almost as though you asked one of my nurses for the correct measurements.” She smirked then nudged him. “No, I hacked the computer for your personal file.” Elaine laughed, “I wouldn't put it past you.” Crispin thought to himself how much he feared that he would never see that smile again, but was thankful that he could now gaze upon it. And her. “Thank you, but this old thing. I put this on when I do not care what I look like.” Crispin smiled. “And, for your information, no this is not an original. I replicated it from an old photo of myself. Ah, the band is playing shall we go for a listen?” “Yes, lets.” Elaine lifted up a foot slightly as they walked along. “These however are originals. I'm ever so pleased the made it through whatever happened to the ship, for my aunt would have killed me if...” She paused to note the irony of the statement. “Well, she would not have been very pleased if they'd been damaged, it took her a long time to find them.” “Oh, well, then I shall be the perfect gentleman and make sure my lovely escort does not get her attire damaged.” Elaine gave his arm a squeeze, “You'll spoil me.” Crispin lead Elaine to the court yard, then an usher lead them to their seats. “I try.” Elaine took her seat and crossed her legs, “Do you know the song they're playing?” “Yes, Beethoven's third. I helped him write this very piece.” Elaine smirked, rolling her eyes a bit. “Are you the serious type who will want to listen to it in utter silence, or can I ask you how you've been?” “Let's listen, no talking, this is about relaxing. And by the looks of you, you need it.” Elaine nodded, “If I fall asleep though, do forgive me...” She leaned on his shoulder facing towards the band. Crispin took her hand, “Shh.” He smiled as she laid her head on his shoulder The two sat quietly listening to the performance. Crispin listened to the music, waxing about how much of the music they played was actually written by him. After the band finished Crispin lead Elaine to the iced over pond. “How about we give those skates a go?” “Alright, but you may have to help me a bit... these boots were murder trying to get on, and getting them off again could be even more difficult.” “Well, might I add, I am a pro at taking off women's...” Crispin smiled sheepishly. “Yes.” He put his skates on and stepped onto the pond. Elaine found a bench near the ponds edge and sits down. “If you can reach this foot I'll work on my left one while you work on getting the right boot off.” She stuck her right leg straight out. “Try not to accidentally tug me off the bench.” She winked. “Certainly my lady, but I can do them both.” With delicate care Crispin undid the laces of the boots and slides them off Elaine. Elaine stuck her chin out, “I'm not completely helpless... but alright...” She watched him take her boots off, handing him her skates to put on. At first, having him do something for her so simple as to take her shoes off made her feel uncomfortable. She found though that she seemed to be enjoying it, and at thought she blushed. “Oh, you have such dainty feet.” Crispin took the skates and brushed her heel when putting them on, lacing them firmly, but not tightly. “All set?” “Yes my Lady.” Crispin held out his hand to help Elaine up and onto the ice, “If you are uneasy, you can hold my hand.” Elaine took his offered hand, wobbled a bit, and then grabbed him around the waist. “Yes... I think I will hold on to your hand... as long as I don't drag you to the ice...” “Okay, hold on.” Crispin skated behind her but still braced her by the waist; he moved his hand to her side by the waist and took her left hand. “Just follow my lead. It's a lot like dancing.” Elaine watched him closely, “Hmm, then I will be sure to not step on your toes...” “You had better not, especially with those blades on your feet. Let's start slowly.” Crispin stepped forward launching the two. “Take it easy. Right foot, left foot, right foot, left foot.” Elaine started with the foot movement again, getting the hand of propelling herself. “This is a little different than an inside rink. No wall to hang on to...” She gave his hand around her waist a little squeeze. “There you have it. Now, let's try once around the pond. Shall we?” “Alright.” Elaine looked around to figure out the course. “This is fun.” “Yes, but it would not be as much fun if I were doing this without you.” Crispin led Elaine from behind, pushing her slightly, and keeping her balanced. “You are doing just great.” “Thank you.” “Now relax, are you ready to fly solo?” Elaine nodded. “I think so...” She spun around slowly to face him and tilts her head to one side. “Do I get to still hold your hand?” Crispin smiled, then leaned in and whispered in her ear, “As long as you need to Elaine, as long as you need to.” Elaine squeezed Crispin's hand and started to skate off with him, but didn't say anything. Crispin stayed by Elaine's side, making sure she did not fall, and the two skated till the sun set. Elaine scrunched her rosy nose at Crispin, “I'm getting cold.” Once Crispin got Elaine's boots back on he announced, “Okay, I have something to warm you up.” Crispin whistled and a horse drawn sleigh came over. “Shall we?” Elaine grinned, “Do you really have to ask?” Crispin helped Elaine into the carriage, then took the seat next to her and pulls out a wool blanket. “This should keep us warm.” Elaine tucked the blanket around them, “Indeed.” “And I have a surprise.” “I'd ask what it is, but that is both clichéd and silly, as you just told me it was a surprise.” Elaine looked at him expectantly nonetheless. Crispin pulled out a thermos and two mugs, “Hot chocolate. And it's the real deal, not replicated. Real chocolate, real milk.” He poured her a cup, then himself. “A toast. To lovely company and good times.” Elaine raised her glass, and then took a whiff and sip of it. “Delicious.” “Not as delicious as your eyes.” “Funny you should say that... I've always found your eyes to be much more enjoyable to look at then mine.” She took another sip of he hot chocolate, feeling a bit embarrassed and wondering if that sounded silly. Crispin laid his cup down and entangled his fingers with Elaine's. “You know, I am here for you. If you want to talk about what happened.” Crispin leaned close in and kissed her softly on the lips. “I am here for you Elaine.” Elaine kissed him back, enjoying the chocolaty taste. “I really do appreciate that, but I've never been much of a talker, even when I try.” She snuggled closer to Crispin, “Being 'there' for me though is more than enough. It does help,” she told him, hoping he would understand. Crispin leaned his head on hers, “Driver, once around the park.” The two sat quietly, enjoying the ride, but more so enjoying each other's company.
  12. We have nothing to fear but fear itself. - Franklin D. Roosevelt Elaine lay curled in a ball on the floor of the cell in which the team was being held. Not that spreading out was really an option, as the cell was only so big. She was feeling a little better now, even after having a substantial about of blood removed from her body. Her hand went up to where the Romulan had extracted it from her, only to be reminded of the strange collar that had been fitted around her neck. Cringing, she sat up and looked around at the other team members. Had she failed them, she wondered? As the one chosen for evaluation, should she have tried to form an emotional bond with the doctor that could have lead to leniency? That, she felt, was quite laughable. Somehow, she knew she would not be chided for not forming a bond with someone who was happily sticking her with a needle to remove blood in large amounts. But who would chide her? They were being transported to wherever they would be executed. Rubbing her head, she thought about the Romulan justification: because they were on a Rihan world? Was not t'Rogora a t’Rogoran planet? Odd, she almost looked for logic in the Captain’s statement. Gritting her teeth, she looked at the ceiling. Many things had happened so quickly. And now, even more quickly than she had expected, they were to die. She decided she must apologize to Brian for her behavior on the planet before they were captured. And to Zack for her behavior towards him planet-side. And… well, she did not think she had anything to apologize to Mr. Baund about, other than for letting Crispin interrogate him so when they had first found him. And Crispin. What had happened to him, to the Excalibur? Had they met the same doom as the away team? Would Starfleet ever know what had happened here? A peaceful feeling settled over Elaine. This was not the first time she had been in a life or death situation with two of the men in this cell. The other time... times?... had not been so very, very dreadful, right? Sure, they would take an execution like men. She set her jaw and decided to take it the same way. No tears, no pitiful faces... no fear.
  13. Crouched down, next to Lt. Baund. Feeling angry at the moment and confused. Trying to revive him. Looking towards Brian now, about to say something snide perhaps. Something about what an ingenious idea it was to come this close to the base. Then, watching Brian struggle and fall. Blink, pupils dilate. Heart beats so loudly you can hear it in your ear. Quick look towards Zack, only to see him fall to the ground as well. For a moment the fear that you have been bottling deep inside your gut tries to surface and threatens to make you vomit. Time speeds up to normal and it is time for you to make a decision. Finally you decide to slowly stand up with your hands in the air where they can see them. Your head swims and for a moment you wonder if you too have been knocked unconscious. Then you make eye contact with one of the Romulans who seems pleased that you have chosen not to struggle. No, you are conscious. You have the feeling of being totally overwhelmed, of not understanding what is going on, of gripping fear. But how long will you be left conscious? One of the Romulans roughly removes your phaser, as though you might actually try to use it. You are pushed to wherever they plan on holding you and a million thoughts rush through your head. What will happen to the others? What will happen to you? What on earth is going on at this base? At the same time, you feel like you are experiencing it all from outside of your body. As if you are just a quiet observer. Quiet and helpless.
  14. The away team had finally come close enough to the Romulan base to fulfill their mission, and had started climbing up a tree. Brian continued to climb the tree, stopping at about every branch to see if he could view the base clearly yet. Finally deeming one sufficient moved up onto a branch and sat on it. “I think this should be high enough,” he said briskly to Elaine while taking out a pair of binoculars and looking around with them. Climbing onto a branch near him, Elaine paused to look down. “Hmm... yes, high enough indeed.” Then, looking back towards him and his antennae, she asked, “How are the uh...” then motioning towards his head, ”um… doing? He moved his antennae about for a moment. “They're better. I got scared for a minute. If I mess these up I'll probably fall out of this tree.” “That... would not be good.” Elaine said, looking around in front of them. “So, what exactly are we looking for? I would like to help.” “Well, we want to get an idea of the layout of this base,” he explained to her. “See how many Romulans they have here, what their defenses are, and their posture. Plus, anything else we happen to observe.” Elaine slowly removed a hand from its death grip on the tree and lifted her binoculars to get a better view of things. “I don't usually like going on the away missions and this one is no different... but everything seems to be going so smoothly, she said, smiling at him. ”I have a good feeling about this mission.” ”I wish I could say the same, but I'm glad you feel that way,” Brian said noncommittally while looking at the base through his binoculars. He worked on getting a basic overview of the base before zooming in closer. “Hmm, based on the layout, it appears to be set in a Delta 2 configuration,” he mumbled while zooming in even more to look at the smaller structures. “Oh yes, yes of course, mmm-hmm...” Elaine mumbled while looking around. She pointed. “Over to the right there, do you think that's the main office type place? He moved his view to where Elaine indicated, looking over the structure. “Probably. It's lack of outside features would suggest that.” He motioned at other areas. ”If you look around the perimeter of the base you can see some small structures. Those are probably defensive fortifications. I'd say they look like they are prepared for an infantry attack.” ”Infantry...” Elaine thought quickly, then asked, “would that be like the Jem'Hadar?” Surprised at her quick assessment, he replied, “Well, yeah, exactly like that. No offense Doctor, but I wouldn't have expected you to make that connection.” Elaine smirked. “I'll take that as a compliment and move on... from the building count here, can we make an assessment of how many people are stationed here?” Brian inhaled deeply through his teeth, trying to come up with the calculation. “Only about 350. It's not a very large base, probably because this is such a sparsely populated environment.” Nodding, she pressed on. “Alright, so what other information about this base do we need to gather? Normal movements of troops, power generator locations, when they like to take a break and do folk dances...?” She shot him a sideways glance. “Just... a little joke there.” “If that were true I'd be sure to get a picture. That would destroy the Romulan military reputation,” he told her with a smile before going back to his binoculars. “Umm, power generation… power generation... maybe that, the domed thing with the two smaller cubes beside it, mostly because I don't know what else it could be.” Elaine looked in that direction. “Hmm… yeah, I'd go with power generator.” She leaned to grab a hold of a nearby branch, still feeling as though she were about to fall out of the tree. Brian scanned the area more, saying, “Now that flatter building is probably the barracks, since...” he let his sentence trail off, noting a shadow coming from his left. “What is that?” Just then a Romulan shuttle skimmed over the trees and headed for the base. Elaine blinked and admitted quietly, “I don’t like things that big that close to me…” “Nor do I,” Brian agreed, holding as still as he could so as not to attract any attention. “I don't remember seeing any landing facilities...” he looked furtively through his binoculars to confirm. ”Maybe they're hiding them behind some of the trees.” Elaine was starting too look very weary about being in this tree. Having confirmed there were no landing facilities, he told her, “Your probably right. there must be another clearing close by.” He stopped talking so he could watch the shuttlecraft more closely. Elaine looked a bit confused. “How do we know this is the only base they have here?” “Oh, there are more around the planet. But from what Chen found, this is the only one in the area. They may just have a clearing with some lights, nothing too technical. It wouldn't show up that way.” She nodded and asked, “And sir... how much longer do we have to stay up in this tree?” “Right after we see where that shuttle lands, we can leave. I think we have seen everything,” he assured her. Taking a moment to look around the base one last time, he noticed some activity near the office building. “Hey, there’s some Romulans coming out of that building you pointed out.” Elaine had had quite enough of this perching business. “Sir, parts of me are going numb. I'm worried about falling out of the tree.” “One more second Doctor, I think me way see someone important. Important enough to be guarded at least… Do you want to start heading down? I’ll follow you in a moment.” He did not want to seem unsympathetic, but he wondered what was happening down there. Four Romulans took up flanking positions at the doorway. Two figures emerged from the building and with an electronic sound he widened the view a bit to see who they were… the first a Romulan, possibly the commander of the base. The second… “Elaine, are you seeing this?” Brian had been greeted by the craggy face of a Jem’Hadar. “What? What are you seeing?” Elaine scrambled to catch hold of the tree, startled by Brian’s outburst. “I’m seeing a meeting that I wish I wasn’t. It looks like the Romulans are having talks with the Dominion.” Engrossed in the movements below, he added, “Well, maybe not Dominion. That's not the traditional Jem'Hadar uniform. He could possibly be loyal to the Hundred...” Elaine leaned her head despondently against a tree branch. “And things were going so well… what do we do now?” He put his binoculars away and looked down at Elaine. “We get the heck out of here and get this information back to Starfleet.” And with that, he headed down the tree with her.
  15. Elaine looked around the cave while Brian and Zack sat talking about their destination. She kept quiet, watching them intently when they said something of interest and then once again she was looking around nervously. Everything about this mission felt a bit rushed to her. One moment she was in Engineering helping that Trill… Admiran wasn’t it? Then Crispin had walked in, given her a wink, and alerted them to the fact that the shuttle was about to be launched. She had gone to the shuttle bay as instructed by Corizon and had been quickly pulled into the shuttle by Zack. Before she knew it, the shuttle had launched, they had been beamed down to the surface of the planet, and they were… here. Not the most enjoyable thing, covert missions. Chewing on her lip, she hoped nothing would go wrong. For a moment she gave in to the sick feeling in her stomach, into the fear, in to the fact that her hands were shaking. Then she quickly clasped her hands together on her lap, and watched Zack draw a map in the dirt. Making a resolution to not be so fearful can sound like a jolly good resolution at first. Then you hide behind bushes and in caves and what not. Not so jolly then. She had been sure to stay as close to Brian as possible. He was, after all, the one most likely to respond to a situation with heroics and get himself hurt. That, and he knew how to use a phaser a lot better than Elaine…
  16. It had been a whirlwind courtship between Ji and Elaine, but she had enjoyed every moment of it. The secretiveness added a lovely suspense to it all, which made it ever so easy to ignore the fact that he was almost twenty years her senior. It did not, however, change the fact that she was a good girl. One weekend, after a flippant suggestion by Ji, they were quietly married in a small church and spent their wedding night in a cottage near the ocean. The next morning Elaine came into the living area where Ji sat, looking over their marriage license. “Good morning, love,” she said to him, coming to sit next to him. “You’re only twenty?” he asked. “Yes,” she confirmed, kissing his forehead, his eyes, his nose. “Didn’t you know? I assumed that you reviewed my bio before offering me the research assistant position.” She hesitated, then asked, “Is it a problem?” He grinned. “No, no. It isn’t like you’re a minor. But, you could have brought it up.” “I was a little bit busy falling in love.” He smiled at her, and asked, “You hungry? Breakfast is on the stove.” As she walked into the kitchen, Ji called to her. “Elaine?” “Yes?” “You realize that you should never tell anyone about our marriage right? Not right now, anyways… it could ruin my career, you could be expelled from the academy… Don’t even tell Ben. He would be more than willing to tell the administration about our relationship, and would probably get sadistic pleasure out of seeing me get the ax…” “I can’t imagine Ben being so vindictive. But seriously, I do realize the gravity of the situation.” She poked her head around the corner and scolded, “Relax. This is our honeymoon. Try to enjoy yourself.” Ji walked up to Elaine, wrapped his arms around her waist, kissed her cheek and said, “I’m still in shock about marrying a child.” Three months later “You seem to be here as much as I am,” Ben told Elaine. “Summer is done and gone and yet you’re still sticking around to help the old fart.” She smiled. “Yes, well, we’re very close to a breakthrough. I can feel it.” He nodded. “Sure, you’re always ‘very close’. Seems to me you’re closer to flipping out from the stress than to a breakthrough.” Rolling her eyes she admitted, “I am a little stressed, yes, but I love being here.” “Well, I graduate soon. I’ve already been accepted at a colony as an assistant science officer.” “Wonderful! I’m so happy for you Ben.” “Promise me you won’t give up a commission because you are so involved with Unlce Ji’s research. You deserve your own success too.” Elaine only smiled because she couldn’t tell Ben why she was still working as a research assistant. If only she could tell someone… Elaine sat on the couch, looking at her mother and wonder what the woman was about to say. “You are filling in, T’Lan,” T’Pen told her, setting her cup of tea down. “And in all the wrong places.” Choking on her tea, Elaine sat her cup down, successfully knocking over several dishes on the table in the process. She folded her hands on her lap, not sure what to say. “How far along are you, T’Lan?” her mother asked, righting the dishes and not looking her daughter in the eye. “About three months,” Elaine admitted quietly. She blinked back tears, looking away from her mother. T’Lan closed her eyes and sighed. “And out of wedlock. I am disappointed in you, my child.” Her eyes now connected with Elaine’s again, but T’Lan’s face remained emotionless. Elaine longed for the emotional support of her father who had passed away almost eight years ago. “Who is the father?” T’Pen asked coolly. “I can’t disclose that information.” “You mean you do not know.” T’Pen sighed. “Splendid, you do not even remember who the father is.” She looked quite disgusted. Oh, I know who the father is, Elaine thought. She couldn’t hold back the tears as she thought of Ji’s response to her good news. He had not been as pleased as Elaine. The display of emotion seemed to be too much for T’Pen. She got up and simply walked away, leaving Elaine crying quietly, alone. To Be Continued
  17. Elaine paced around the sick bay, feeling grumpy. Why did she always feel grumpy when she thought of things that pained her? Looking over the article again, she scowled. …Dr. Ji Qiao accepted the award today with these words, “During the last several years, I have enjoyed the assistance of many graduate students while I was developing the cure for Heebleek’iis disease, and would not have been able to finish the work so quickly if it had not been for them. The names of the students who helped me reach the finish line were Cameron Reynolds, Bwan’Ze Elmarna, and Elaine Delgado.” She sighed at that, wondering why he even bothered mentioning her name. Cringing, she wondered how he could not. Had what happened then not even affected him in the least? Her mind began to wander… -------------- Four years ago “Dr. Qiao?” Elaine peeked around the corner, into his office. “Come in,” he said, without looking up from the papers he was grading. She was taking his course on experimental medicine over the summer, as well as several other classes, hoping to finish her courses at Starfleet Medical a little more quickly than the usual time allotted. Dr. Qiao had told her that if she wanted to earn some extra credit she should come to his office after her classes that day and speak with him. “Please, have a seat over there.” He motioned in the opposite direction of the spare chair, still not looking up. Elaine sat down in the chair, smirking, and asked, “What was it that you wanted to tell me about.” Finally he looked up. “Have you ever been involved in a research team, Delgado?” She nodded. “Yes, I spent a year with my aunt, Dr. Marcella Delgado, in an archeological expedition.” “Not exactly what I meant by research, but alright.” Setting his papers aside for the moment, he looked up at her. “How would you like to be my assistant in the research of the infectious Heebleek’iis disease? I’ve been working on it for quite some time now and always take an assistant on over the summer to help me with whatever I’m working on at the time. As I said before, it is a chance to earn extra credit.. I have already set it up with the school.” He handed her a data padd, which she began skimming over. “It would require your weekends. I must mention that if you do not think you are up for the challenge, I have several other students who have requested the position…” “I would love to be involved with this, sir,” Elaine interrupted, handing him back the data padd. “When would I start?” “How about this weekend? I’ll send a transport to pick you up.” Three weeks later “Ji, someone is at the door!” Elaine leaned over the railing and hollered down into the lab. “Well answer it, answer it!” Dr. Qiao yelled up, not moving from his scrunched-over-a-microscope position. She walked to the front entryway and did so. Before her stood a young man about her age who held a striking resemblance to the Doctor. “Hello,” she said to him. Grinning, he asked, “Is my uncle here? I mean hi, I’m Ben.” He pushed past her and walked into the house towards the lab, yelling out “Unlce Ji, you in here?” “Down here and do shut up.” Ben turned back around to Elaine and handed her his jacket. “We’ll take coffee in the lab: make it strong enough so I can feel my teeth, alright?” Handing the jacket back, she informed him, “You can make your own coffee, I have work to get to… in the lab.” Dr. Qiao looked up at them, laughing. “Well I see you two have met. Ben, try to treat my assistant with a little dignity.” Later that evening, Ben and Elaine sat at a table finishing dinner while Dr. Qiao showered. “You seem to be a bit young for my uncle’s assistant. Are you a student?” She nodded “yes” and slurped some more soup down. His eye narrowed. “Highschool student?” Elaine coughed on some of her soup. “Indeed no, I am twenty-years-old, working on my degree at Starfleet Med school.” “Well, even then you’re a bit young for Med school.” “I started college courses at sixteen,” she explained. “My mother was my teacher and had always given me advanced courses. I started the medical courses about a year ago, and by continuing on coursework even the summers, I have the chance to graduate at twenty-three and be on a ship soon after.” “Ah, that makes more sense.” Ben stirred his soup around. “So what do you think of my uncle?” “Ji? Oh, I think he’s cute in a sweet, fatherly-sort of way. I adore him.” “I think he’s an obsessive, self-centered, womanizing pig.” Ben grinned at his description of his uncle. “Glad you think so, always good to know my family loves me,” Dr. Qiao’s voice startled Elaine. She turned around to look at him. They smiled at each other, Ben laughing behind it all. The next afternoon Elaine was in her room packing up her things from the weekend as she prepared to go to go back to school for the week. Dr. Qiao walked in and sat on the end of her bed next to her pack. He smiled at her. “Yes?” she asked, still moving about, packing things away. “So you think I’m cute, huh?” he asked her. Elaine laughed and continued walking around. Returning a compliment, he said, “Well, I think your paintings are cute.” She rolled her eyes. “Abstract is what they are. Not exactly something you can describe as cute.” “Alright,” he stood up and walked over to where she was. “Then I think your ears are cute.” This he said quietly, brushing her hair away from an ear. “And I think that smile is cute, too.” He leaned down and gently kissed her lips. ”Ji…” But, he soon quieted her protest. To Be Continued
  18. I've come this close ::motions with left hand:: to playing a SW table top, to the point of having a character lined up and what not, but I've not actually played a table top before no. So really, there is no reason for me to be posting this. ::implodes::
  19. Thank you Taalix ;)
  20. Elaine sat on the biobed next to Mr. Baund’s and stared at him. He was sleeping so peacefully, which was good for him she supposed. His body was now rehydrated and seemed to be working within normal parameters once again. There was just one thing that was bothering her about him: no family. How could anyone not have any family at all? It seemed unimaginable to her, after being surrounded by so many aunts and uncles and cousins for the later part of her childhood. She tucked her knees under her chin and wrapped her arms around them, thinking about her family. She missed them all very much, some more than others… Aunt Marc, with her crazy gray laced hair in a messy bun; Curt, with his goofy grin; Calvin, who would be starting at the Academy soon; Elaine was even beginning to miss her mother a bit, critical woman that she may be. She got off the biobed with a sigh, and went into her office to look over paperwork. Well, no matter if he has family or not, he’s now rested up and rejuvenated enough to face whatever question Mr. Graham or Mr. Xavier might have for him, she assured herself. Elaine sighed again at the thought of Crispin, and rubbed her forehead. Thoughts swam about her head, and emotions… she straightened up in her chair. Though she had always felt closer to her father’s side of the family, there were times when she wished that she could make a decision without letting emotion cloud her judgment. But how could she even attempt to make decisions in that fashion around Crispin, about Crispin? He seemed to amplify her emotions just by being present. Concentrate on the work at hand, stop… just stop, she scolded herself silently. Looking around her desk she considered preparing a report on Mr. Baund for Admiral Day, but then realized she had no idea what information he would require. She decided finally to just give him what information had been gathered from his physicals. Physical Report for Lieutenant Junior Grade Baund ATTN: Admiral Day, Commander Corizon CC: Lieutenant Graham, Lieutenant Xavier While Lt. Baund was malnourished and dehydrated, a good shower, several hours of sleep, a generous meal, and rehydration therapy have all helped to alleviate these problems. Lt. Xavier suggested that we question him about his family, friends, and close acquaintances in order to verify further that he was who he said he was, however this was not quite as successful as hoped. Lt. Baund informed us that he did not have any family for us to contact with the news of his still being alive. Before Lt. Xavier could question him further, about his former captain and so forth, Lt. Baund became fatigued and laid down to sleep again; this lethargicness was probably caused by the amount of food he had consumed prior to being questioned. It would be my suggestion to return him to Starfleet as soon as possible, as I do not have the accommodations needed to give him a full psychoanalysis. As a survivor in this situation, he will also need counseling, which at this time I am not capable of providing. Lt. Baund is now, however, physically capable of being questioned by either Lt. Xavier or Lt. Graham, without causing trauma to his person.
  21. Lieutenant Junior Grade Baund had been living on a desert-like planet for… how long? Months… so many months… living alone, eating plants… and the occasional herbivore, one of the less dangerous variety. He had given up ever seeing another human alive again. Then, they appeared. It seemed so dreamlike: hearing people’s voices again, seeing other people move. But why, why must they ask so many questions, run tests on him, why? And then they were taking him back to the ship. ”Here, wrap up in this blanket, the sickbay isn't too far from here,” Elaine assured him once they had beamed aboard. Nodding and wrapping up, Baund told her, “This is pure heaven... I'd love to take a shower as soon as I can, Doctor.” Elaine smiled at him. “We have a shower in the sickbay and then we can get you a nice, warm meal.” She smiled and began to lead him out the door, only to be met by Crispin and two security officers. “Mr. Xavier,” she said, nodding. Crispin said nothing as he looked over Lt. Baund, he got close to Baund but he felt nothing. So that ended Crispin's suspicions that Baund was an Immortal. So how did he survive for so long, and why was he the only survivor of the wreck of the USS Novgorod? These questions would be answered by the Medical and Security staff, Crispin was only an Engineer, but he had been Chief of Security on the USS Dumont. And there he had to deal with situations that smacked similarities of what was happening now. "Dr. Delgado, no need to worry we are just here as a precaution." Crispin and the Security officers followed Elaine and Baund to Sick Bay. After arriving at Sickbay, Elaine led Mr. Baund to a small shower was, and left him to clean himself. Walking over to a replicator, she ordered some garments for Mr. Baund. Holding them in her arms she looked over at Crispin and the security officers, wondering why their presence was necessary. Baund was standing in the shower, letting the water wash away the months of dirt and sweat. He heard the door click open at one point and heard the Doctor put some clothing on the table for him. He knew he had been showering for a while, but he decided to stay in for a little while longer. Getting cleaned up never felt better. Elaine had replicated a rather large meal for Mr. Baund. Angel hair pasta drenched in butter and garlic sauce, topped with shrimp, lobster, and asparagus, just as Baund specified. In addition, he had several slices of bread, and apple and an orange, and a steak. “A steak as a side dish?” Elaine had asked to make certain she understood him correctly, but Mr. Baund only nodded and asked for sauce, as well. And, of course, for dessert he had a huge slice of banana cream pie. Once he was finished eating, she had him lie down to sleep. Elaine glanced over at Crispin and the security officers once more, wondering how long they planned to stay. Crispin recognized the look, he had seen it before many times, he made his way to Elaine. "Doctor Delgado, no need to fret, we are not going to be taking up a post in your sick bay, it's just a precaution. I still have trouble with this Mr. Baund, think about. Why is he the only survivor? Why did the Jem'Hadar leave a Federation Vessel just sitting there? Why not destroy it, or strip it for tactical information? That's what I would have done. Don't worry as soon as he is cleared from sick bay these security personnel will be gone. No if I may ask a same favor. Could you run a full psychiatric evaluation on this Mr. Baund?" Elaine sighed, but complied. She was not quite sure what motivated this man’s actions. However, he would have to wait to question her until after the evaluation of her new patient was complete. For now, she would let Mr. Baund sleep.
  22. Lt. Elaine Delgado Personal Log “Computer, begin.” Elaine plopped onto her bed and began removing her boots with a clunk as one of them was tossed to the other side of the room. “Things have been pretty busy around here lately – from my and Mr. Reno’s promotions to Ensign Wooster’s appendicitis, I have not had much of a chance to just sit down. Then, when and if I do get a chance, there is paperwork by the score. And then there is Mr. Graham’s visit to me on the behalf of Mr. Xavier…” She sat still for a moment, thinking about the advice her mother had given her. “I have yet to talk to with Crispin. Not that I have any idea what I am to tell him. How does one say that one would like to be “just friends” in a nice way? There is no nice way.” Feeling tired, Elaine flopped backwards onto her bed, not even bothering to change into something else to rest. “I need some coffee. And a nice painting session in the holodeck. And some sleep. And some warmer slippers. And some baked chicken parmesan. And…” She sighed. “I suppose I’ll just settle for the coffee.”
  23. ((special thanks to my rl mom who had way too much fun writing this with me)) Elaine walked into her room and sat down at the desk. A small light flashing alerted her to the fact that someone wished to have a video transmission with her. She noted that the invitation was from her mother, and connected immediately. “Hello, Mother,” she said when T’Pen’s visage appeared. “You look tired, T’Lan. Have you been taking your vitamins and supplements?” Raising an eyebrow, Elaine replied, “Of course, Mother. Every day.” “You lie. And you do it badly.” Elaine blinked. “Was there a purpose to your contacting me, Mother?” “Oh, yes. I am taking a teaching position at the Academy.” “You seemed to enjoy teaching while I was a child. Teaching again should make you happy.” “Happy?” T’Pen snorted, but decided to let the comment pass. After sighing she asked, “Is something bothering you, my daughter? You seem troubled.” “He’s not really bothering me, Mother, more like pursuing me. Actively.” Elaine played with a paintbrush on her desk, thinking. “Pursing? I did not realize you had any predatory species on your ship.” Elaine looked up. “I beg your pardon?” “Ah, so you are listening. Who is this he?” “He is Lieutenant Junior Grade Crispin Xavier, assistant engineer.” “An engineer? Hmm…engineers are worthless cogs on a starship. Most of their responsibilities can be done more efficiently by a computer and without the emotional outbursts that are so common to their profession.” “But Mother, you married an engineer.” “He was an exception,” T’Pen rubbed her eyebrows for a moment. “Have you reciprocated his… advances?” Elaine tilted her head to the side. “Not… really.” “Are you keeping details from me?” T’Pen’s eyes narrowed. Elaine sighed. “Only details that must be kept from all people.” “That was quite cryptic. I am sensing that you are distressed by his attentions.” “Yes, Mother. I would like to let him know I am not interested in him romantically, but I would like to develop a friendship, instead.” “The most logical solution would be to be forthright.” “I’ve never been that assertive,” Elaine lamented. “You know that.” “You’re more like your father than you know,” T’Pen pointed out. “Draw from your memories of him. Let his strength be your strength, his assertiveness yours. Meditate on what you will say to this… Crispy… Crunchy… what was his name again?” “Crispin.” “Ah, yes… think on what you will say to him before you speak. Remain in control of yourself and the conversation. When you are finished, walk away. Success is yours, my daughter.” “Thank you, Mother.” “Of course.” T’Pen nodded to her daughter. “And T’Lan, do try to get more sleep. Your eyes look baggy.” She ended the transmission. Elaine leaned back in her chair, and began processing what her mother had said.
  24. --- Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. --Hebrews 11:1 --- Elaine sat staring at Crispin’s tank of air that he had handed her. Nothing you can do, nothing you can do, nothing you can do… these words of his echoed in her head, as did other things he had said to her. She willed herself to stay calm. Losing control, giving into fear… this would accomplish nothing but using more of her diminishing supply of oxygen. Holding still as possible, she tried to clear her mind of all that had happened in the last ten minutes. That proved quite difficult. I should have never come here. I was put in charge of the sick bay, and as acting chief I should have delegated. But how could I have done otherwise? I could not have forgiven myself for putting someone else in this situation, she thought to herself. Looking up from her lap, she bit her lip. I don’t want to die. She closed her eyes, and thought, I don’t see how we’re going to get out of this situation, but I have faith that we will. Oh God, but how? But for the moment, other thoughts were pushed aside. “McKnight to Delgado, prepare to receive a medical emergency.” Her body jerked at the sound of Adrian’s voice over the comm. Now the thoughts racing through her head were of what trouble he could have gotten himself into this time. She sat the canister to one side a reached for her med kit…
  25. When Elaine had heard that the Excalibur was leaving the away team behind she felt her stomach lurch. She was to prepare medical supplies and send someone down there to stay with them. At least they would have time for that. Memories flooded over her… “Where’s my father?” “We’re under attack; we’ll get the away team back as soon as the transporter comes back online.” “The team on the surface was attacked. Apparently by landing on this planet we have disrupted some sort of shine…” “I’m sorry ma’am. He didn’t make it.” “There was a rock slide when they fired on the planet, if he had received immediate help, perhaps…” “T’lan…my child, your father is dead.” She shook the memories from her head. There was no reason to freak out about all this, was there? Elaine chided herself for worrying so, but she couldn’t shake the feeling of needing to be there, with them, with him. One part of her screamed with terror at the thought of being left there and about her duties on the ship, but the other didn’t want to leave someone on that rock, alone…