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Laehval tTemarr

STSF GM
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Everything posted by Laehval tTemarr

  1. Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrg! Walk tha plank ye scurvy dogs! I celebrated today and made everyone at work do likewise. Ahoy there, mateys!
  2. From the DS9 episode Change of Heart: Worf: I have a sense of humour! On the Enterprise I was considered quite amusing. Dax: That must have been one dull ship. From the DS9 episode Children of Time: Gabriel: Are you the Son of Mogh? Worf: Yes, I am. Gabriel: Is it true you can kill someone just by looking at them? Worf: Only when I am angry.
  3. When he lost his job, he told himself that he could find something better. When his wife left him for a rat and took the pinkies with her, he told himself that there were other fish in the sea. But when repo people came to take his motorcycle away, Ralph seriously considered the unthinkable.
  4. I was browsing through some of my logs and found this gem tucked away in the archives. Check out the very beginning... Now you have to ask yourself... Why didn't N'Dak go put some pants on before visiting other areas of the ship? :) If you'd like to read the whole log, here's the link: http://www.stsf.net/forums/index.php?showt...artmental+duels
  5. Suuuuuureeeee she did. I bet she had to twist his arm, too. :)
  6. The Perplexity of Pexil's Predicament A Duty Log From: Erei'Riov Lerak tr'Pexil & Daise'Engineer El'Riov Laehval t'Temarr Engineering was running smoothly now that the Talon was not on the verge of falling to pieces. Most of the repairs had been completed, leaving only a few minor adjustments to be made as the ship took orbit around Melkos 3. While the rest of the department went quietly about their various duties, Laehval and Lerak were working on something much more interesting. “I cannot let anyone know about this message now. I do na even know how well the comm system is monitored here,” Lerak said, looking about. “If some organization like the Tal Shiar is onboard, nothing can be taken for granted. Do we have a secure room somewhere on this deck?” “Ie,” Laehval replied, indicating the corridor that led to the Engineering laboratories. “We can use io of those and make it secure. The systems there are na connected to the main etrehh and there are na monitoring devices in them. Move aur file there and set it up. I shall make sure we are na disturbed.” Pexil nodded and removed the data chip from the computer, heading down the corridor and picking a room at random. In the lab, he uploaded the program to the isolated computer and activated it. “This should do.” After making certain that her crew had a grasp on their duties, Laehval entered the lab a few moments later. She locked the door behind her, securing it against entry from anyone on the ship - even the Enarrain. As Pexil finished his setup, she grabbed one of the chairs and took a seat, propping her feet up on the desk. “How long do au think it will take to decode the rest of the message?” “I'm na certain, this is way too large for a normal audio visual message. I believe it uses... ah there we go.” Pexil remained standing, a grimace forming on his face as he read the file's header. “Ah, this is a holographic message, possibly interactive.” Her gaze rolled upward to Lerak. “Au do realize that this is highly illegal and, if this message is discovered, we will both likely be arrested, tried, and executed as Federation spies? Are au concerned about the consequences?” “Are au? Do au have trouble with authority?” He asked, glancing at her for a second. “The program is ready; we have a holo emitter in here do we na?” Trouble with authority? Hadn't he noticed how often she seemed to be in trouble with t'Rexan? She hated authority and hated being told what to do. And she especially hated people thinking they could run her department better than she could. However, subterfuge still made her nervous. She knew that she and Pexil were not spies, but no one else would believe that. She nodded in response to his last question, glancing to the node high up on one wall. “Ie. It should na have a problem.” “Here we go.” He took a step back to watch. An outline of a figure flickered rapidly, then solidifying into a complete form. Lerak’s expression changed to surprise. “Oh my... Commander Pixel of the U.S.S. Federation.” The hologram standing before them was of an older male. Neither fully Vulcan nor fully Romulan, he wore characteristics of both. The slight smile on his face also hinted that he did not entirely follow the Vulcan’s path of logic. Tall with short, black hair, he wore the blue uniform of a Starfleet science officer. Lerak’s eyes remained on the hologram as he spoke to Laehval. “We have met a few times at conferences in neutral territories where we discussed engineering and propulsion issues.” “Quite correct Mr. Pexil,” the hologram spoke directly to Lerak, Federation Standard translated by the Talon’s internal program. “I am your half-brother. We have the same father, a fact which I just learned only a few weeks ago.” One could see the resemblance between the two brothers though the man in Starfleet uniform looked to be at least a decade older and several centimeters taller. “And before you ask, I don't know the details of how my parents met, only that I was the outcome.” The hologram paused and looked in Laehval’s direction. “Jolan Tru to you.” Laehval blinked at the holographic program, mouth slightly agape. She dragged her feet off the table and leaned forward to get a better look at the image. “A very intelligently designed program.” She threw Lerak a glance. “Aur half-dianvm? A Lloann'na officer? How could aur di'ranov have bonded with a thaessu… a dead io?” Peering back at the program, she tilted her head slightly, eyes narrowed. “What is the purpose of this message?” “To deliver this news as 'in person' as possible, given the current political reality between the Federation and the Romulan Empire.” The hologram of Commander Pixel continued to peer at Laehval, seeming to appraise her. “I know who you are now... Laehval t'Temarr, the Chief Engineer.” Laehval looked surprised that the program knew her name. She stared at Lerak. “Au talked about me to him?” That would have logically be the only way the program could have known her name. “He speaks quite highly of you t'Temarr, do not worry.” The hologram paused, glancing from one to the other. “I hope this message was not discovered by other than you two?” “Na, only us.” Pexil laughed suddenly. “Now I know why we got along at those conferences, despite our arguments about quantum theory and such.” Her brow furrowed slightly as she studied the program once again, searching for similarities between the Federation officer and her own loyal Engineer. “Aur sole purpose was to send aur dianvm a message that the two of au are related? Quite a bit of trouble to go through for a singular message.” “It seemed more personal this way and I was able to answer many questions he might have. Also your government makes communication difficult, and a typical message may have been more easily assembled on your end,” Commander Pixel answered. “I take it the Talon is running smoothly under your care t'Temarr?” “Always.” She frowned at the hologram, finding that its life-like quality disturbing. It looked as though a Starfleet officer was standing in the middle of their lab. “Now that the message has been delivered, what have au been programmed to do?” “Hmm,” the hologram looked puzzled. “Nothing really. Thought it would be interesting to try this out. The real Commander Pixel has had some time on his hands, experiments and such. This is a one way message however, so I can't relay anything back.” Lerak spoke up, “So how is aur ri'nanov then?” “She is doing well, on Earth at the time of this message. I do not know if she knows I have contacted you. Thought I should since one does not know the perils of traveling between the stars.” Pixel answered in what they could tell was not a typical Vulcan demeanor. Could he pass as Romulan under the right light? “Do you two have any more questions for this hologram? Laehval shook her head and waited to Lerak to deactivate the program, leaning back in her chair again. Her brow furrowed as she tried to puzzle over the message. “Well then, I hope to meet you at some conference in the future if the opportunity arises. You two are both welcome for a visit if ever 'in the mood' and don't mind your governments 'wrath'. And Pexil… you really should ask her before time passes you by.” The hologram wore a faint smile as he glanced from Lerak to Laehval and back again. And with that, the hologram shut off on its own. Laehval arched one eyebrow, shifting her gaze to stare at Lerak. The lab was small compared to Main Engineering, but they were still several meters apart. “What shall you do now? Compose a return message?” Clearly embarrassed, Pexil finally took his seat. He shook his head at her question. “Nothing yet. Security is so tight that I do na know how we would go undetected.” “Gives me something to think about now. Never thought I'd have a sibling. A shame it is na easier to get in contact.” He met her gaze and held it, watching her. “Amusing,” the intensity of her gaze never wavered. “I spent the majority of my life wishing I had na siblings at all. Still,” she paused, nibbling at her lower lip. “It is interesting to find that au have a dianvm. What do au think of aur di'ranov now that au know?” “I'm na sure. I've na spoken to him for a while now. Ri'nanov would get any message I sent. Wonder if she knows. I can na blame him for na saying anything, I suppose...” He trailed off, thinking. “I'm sorry for his parting comment at the end.” Pexil finally said, blushing again. “I'll have to say something about that to him.” Looking away, he secured the holographic file on a data chip, making sure it was highly compressed and encrypted. “It sounds as if au two had quite a conversation at that conference of aurs… and covered more topics than quantum theories and propulsion,” she said wryly. She stood with a small sigh. “Whatever au decide to do, Lerak, make sure au tell me ahead of time. If something happens and au are caught, I would like to have some sort of bargaining chip prepared.” “It would na be good if t'Rexan accidentally met him in the HIC.” He smiled as he secured the data chip, motioning for the door. “Let us get back to running the ship.” As the two of them exited the lab, Lerak glanced sideways to peer at her. “Hann’yyo again for aur involvement in this, Laehval. Au are taking great personal risk for a cause that is na aur own.” “Ie. I know.” She returned the glance with a slight smile. “Just do na make me regret it, Lerak.”
  7. Elite Force rocked. I have yet to buy Elite Force II off of E-bay, but I'm sure I will sometime in the near future. I did find an expansion pack for Elite Force and bought it off E-bay for $1. It was really cool. It didn't do anything as far as the standard game was concerned, but there was an option to explore Voyager, which let you roam the ship as much as you liked. There were little collectibles that you could search for and pick up along the way. I found it very diverting.
  8. "In business news today, the breakfast cereal company Kellog's declared bankruptcy earlier this morning. To cover legal expenses, they were forced to sell everything including their cereal mascots. Here we see the Cornelius, the Corn Flakes rooster, being led away by his new owner. Next up for bid will be Toucan Sam, Tony the Tiger, and Dig'em. Snap, Crackle, and Pop have already been sold off to the Keebler company."
  9. "Here we see a life-sized example of our newest fad - the Urban Ice Sculpture. Of course, when we bring these to your wedding reception, they will be much smaller. And a lot cleaner. And you probably won't have to worry about homeless people trying to sleep on it."
  10. I'm going to pick Atragon for this one because I think he's speaking from experience... LOL Kallah gets honorable mention for making me choke on my drink. And I really wish I knew what Jaden meant. I'm sure it would elevate me to a higher plane of knowledge.
  11. Because I like this thread and don't want to lose it, I name myself winner and Ruler of the Universe and give you your next picture.... Gentlemen... BEHOLD!
  12. Covenant with the Devil A Duty Log From: Acting Enarrain Daise'Erei'Riov Destorie N'Dak & Daise'Engineer El'Riov Laehval t'Temarr “I must ask something of au...” Destorie paused for a moment, unsure if Laehval was preparing to pounce and kill him now and get it over with, or if she was actually listening to him. “This is na easy for me,” he continued, his voice soft and almost leery. “But au are the only io I can ask this of...” Hands clasped and resting in her lap, Laehval seemed in control of her emotions, though she was still tense. Both brows arched slightly at his tone. She did not have to mention that he was the Enarrain and that she was duty-bound to follow his orders. He would know that. The fact that he was actually asking her to help him with something had her curious. “Ie? Fhaen continue…” He sighed before continuing. “I have na always been the best... leader...” Wisely, she kept her comments to herself, simply tilting her head as she waited. “And,” he took another deep breath, this was obviously hard for him to say. “I have always had a great deal of admiration for au, and the way au carry out aur duties, both as an officer and as a Daise. And as Enarrain... au kept the ship together despite those who were acting against au.” Laehval had the grace to wince, reminded of the previous situation and the consequences with which she was still trying to live. She remembered everything, every sordid detail, and wished she could block it out. “Au honor me, but I was only doing my duty.” Destorie let his gaze linger on the woman sitting across from him. In three years, the two of them had been tested by the Elements many times. They'd survived the jungles of that wretched blob infested planet, they'd survived each other's tempers, and they'd survived the tyranny of t'Rexan. “I have na always treated au with the respect au deserve... but I would appreciate,” his voice lost some of the confidence that always pervaded it. “If au... if au would help me through this period as acting Enarrain of the Talon.” The words escaped his mouth in a rush; the pride normally worn on his face faded to a sort of sad helplessness. Asking for help. He'd never thought he'd be in this position. Certainly not in his moment of glory. He had finally proven himself to be worthy of Command, but at every corner he found himself needing help. Clearly, that wasn't what Laehval was expecting. At the very least, she assumed that he wanted her to help rid him of t'Rexan once and for all. Relaxing slightly, hands resting loosely on the armrests of her chair, she peered at him for a few moments. If she felt anything at his admission, it did not show. Certainly she was dancing with glee on the inside at seeing him so humble. It had never happened before and would probably never happen again. Repressing a wicked grin, Laehval merely pursed her lips and nodded slightly. “And what, exactly, did au have in mind? t'Ksa will be aur first in command. Should au na be appealing to her for her support?” He nodded, “I will speak with her in time. But au carry much weight with the crew, au are well respected, and it would benefit me to gain insight from au as well.” Of course, the reason he'd came to her first, instead of t'Ksa, was simple—he needed to keep his friends close, and his enemies closer. Over the years, he'd developed a working list of those who could and would challenge him should he ever be in this situation, and the woman in front of him was currently at the top. “I think I understand aur request, but I am curious to know why au think I would help au?” She knew without having to ask, but wanted to hear it from his own lips. He needed support in front of the rest of the crew and someone to gauge the “pulse” of the ship. He needed eyes and ears in other departments to spot any problem areas before they developed. He needed someone to watch his back. She wondered why he thought he could trust her. “Given my options,” his voice clear and honest, “I have little choice, do I na?” A slight sigh escaped him. He was right of course. He had little choice but to trust her. His life was in the hands of his crew, of his shipmates. He'd been on the other end of this, and he knew that there would be disgruntled crew planning to toss him out the nearest airlock. He also knew he'd made his fair share of bitter enemies, not only among the junior crew, but the senior command staff as well. t'Aehjae came to mind rather quickly. “True.” Laehval nodded her head slightly, mulling that over. “There are few on this ship that feel anything but animosity toward au. There are fewer still that would step forward to aid au. I am certain that there will be at least io assassination attempt on aur life before the crew grows accustomed to the idea of au in command. Perhaps it may even come from aur own d’heno staff. There are na many that au can trust.” “There are some loyal D'Heno sahen among them,” he said, a cautious note in his voice. “But, and I am to blame for it as much anything else, t'Aehjae and I have always been rivals. I almost fear putting t'Rexan under her guard.” “Au will na need to worry on that account. t'Aehjae is t'Rexan's creature and has been from the very start. She would protect her, if that is what au desired.” She paused for a moment, considering. “If I give au my support and back aur decisions as our acting Enarrain, what would I expect to receive in return?” Ah, now there was the core of the matter. He really didn't think she would simply fall at his feet and do his bidding, did he? Laehval was an opportunist and would push for whatever concessions she could get from him. An eyebrow lift, he had expected this sooner. “What is it au desire?” he said carefully. “I am in a position to offer much of some things... and little of others.” “First and foremost, I require autonomy in my department, as au have already promised. t'Rexan meddled in my affairs far too often and sometimes endangered those on the ship in doing so. Au must realize that I run my department efficiently. I do na respond well to the outside pressures of imposed command. Our environment is hectic enough. We know our duties and will do everything in our power to make certain that the Talon runs smoothly. It shames us to have it be otherwise.” She paused for a few moments to let that sink in. After a few moments, he nodded. “I have na problem with granting this wish. Is there anything else?” “Ie,” she replied without hesitation. “I want Erein J'stal t'Ditsy transferred out of Engineering. She is useless as an engineer. I do na know how she made it through the Galae. I do na care where au put her, just find her a new posting. She has minimal engineering skills, though she might be useful in Operations or Communications. I doubt she could survive in any other department.” He grimaced and shook his head, knowing firsthand of the Erein's reputation. The three of them had waded through the swamps of the blob planet while being hunted by tr'Psichore. He'd discovered then just how useless the younger female had been. When t'Ditsy wasn't daydreaming, she was complaining about her own discomfort. He had wondered how the Erein managed to function as an engineer. “I do na know where I could place her, but it will be done.” Perhaps he could place her near Koga. And keep her attentions on him. “Menkha.” Laehval nodded, obviously pleased. “I also require that the Talon be refitted before disembarking on any long term mission. Though most of our repairs are near to completion, we have several outdated systems that need to be totally replaced. At na time since I have been on board, have we remained around ch'Rihan for any extended period of time. Consequently, the ship is falling apart. If we do na get the Talon to the shipyards for a serious overhaul, I doubt we will live through our next deep space mission. There is only so much patching that we can do to hold this ship together. Perhaps this is na the best time considering the political situation, but that can na be helped.” “I can na guarantee that we will be allowed to remain. Au see that we have already been ordered away from ch'Rihan to keep the populace under control. I will make the request, but it is up to Galae Command. I am subject to orders, just as au.” “Is that all?” He almost hated to ask, fearing she would think up more conditions. He hated being at the mercy of another, and this situation had made him more irritable than usual; but now was not the time for one of his bursts of rage and anger. Control was the name of the game. “Ie. For hna. If anything else comes to my attention, I shall let au know.” He gave in so easily because he had no choice. Little did he realize to what he was agreeing. She'd been held back by t'Rexan so often that she had stopped trying. Now things were about to become drastically different. She would make changes a little a time so as not to draw any negative attention, but eventually her department would be as she willed it. Transfers, supply commendations, repairs: no longer would she be forced to wait for her requests to be approved. And should he balk or try to retract any of his promises, he would find himself with a ship that did not function properly. Engineers made amazing saboteurs. Not only did they have intimate knowledge of the ship's systems, but they knew how to manipulate them in such a way that tampering would be untraceable. Now totally relaxed, Laehval gave him a reassuring smile. “Do na worry. I am sure au will be deserving of aur new post. Au have dealt with responsibility before and have survived it. At least au know the true nature of aur father and realize that arrogance does na accomplish anything. I believe that will make au a better leader.” Rising from her seat, she nodded to him, meeting his gaze. “Au have my support... Rekkhai.” It took quite a bit of effort to call him that, but the strain was lessened by the allowances she had secured. She considered this to be a small victory for her and for engineering. Destorie nodded, “Hann'yyo. Inform me when we have finalized repairs.” As he watched her leave, a sickening feeling of apprehension started growing deep inside him. N'Dak had just made a deal with the devil. Only time would tell if he would escape with his soul.
  13. Incredulous A duty log from Daise’Engineer El’Riov Laehval t’Temarr Laehval sat in her office, too stunned to do anything but stare at her computer screen. She’d heard the announcements, but thought there had been a miscommunication. It has taken three different confirmations from the Talon’s database updates until she had believed what was happening, and even then, she still had not accepted it. She sat there in a state of shock, her thoughts a confusing jumble. How could things have taken such an unexpected turn? “Enarrain Daise’Erei’Riov Destorie N’Dak.” Laehval read the report again and shook her head. “Io moment he is talking of running from the ship like a coward. The next he is being promoted to acting Enarrain. Na only is he hna my superior officer, but he also outranks me.” Leaning back in her chair, she tried to ignore the feeling of unease spreading through her. She felt as though her stomach would empty its contents at any moment. Taking several deep breaths, she closed her eyes and attempted to calm herself. “Relax, Laehval. It is na as bad as it sounds. There has to be a reasonable explanation.” The words came from her own mouth, but they sounded hollow. She opened her eyes with a sigh and deactivated her monitor so she would not have to read the announcement again. Things on the Talon had been in turmoil for so long that she was not exactly sure how she felt. She was extremely wary, for she knew that Destorie was ambitious and this new position would be certain to fill his head with ideas of obtaining even more power. She was also extremely annoyed because she knew what sort of leader he had been as Daise’Dheno and she hardly thought him qualified to handle the responsibility of commanding the entire ship. He did not have the experience necessary for such a position and certainly did not have the crew’s respect. For that reason, Laehval faced a significant dilemma. Given that N’Dak’s new posting was an official Galae promotion, Laehval was duty-bound to follow his orders and uphold his command. To defy him would risk dissention among the rest of the crew and unrest in the entire ship. If other crew members witnessed a blatant break in the chain of command, there would be mutiny when others attempted to defy orders. As her primary concern was the welfare of the ship and its crew, Laehval could not allow that to happen. Destorie had been placed in command and she would respect the rank, but she did not have to like it. After all, she hated being under t’Rexan’s command, but she had followed the woman’s orders. Beneath it all, though, Laehval was hurt more than anything. She would never allow anyone to see that side of her, but it was there nonetheless. She was dedicated to the Talon and had never wavered in her loyalty. Even when she had refused to give up command of the ship to t’Rexan during the most recent alien encounter, she had done so out of benefit to the crew and not because she had craved authority. The Talon was her ship, no matter who was in charge. She was convinced that no other cared as much about the ship as she did. Despite the documented fact of her unswerving devotion, she did not question the fact that she had been passed over for such a promotion. She knew very well that, commendation or not, her disagreements with t’Rexan had ruined any chance for advancement. She was extremely fortunate that she still held her command position. Her prejudice had cost her. tr’Pexil had been promoted above her, and though Lerak deserved his new rank, Laehval couldn’t help but wonder how long would it be before he was assigned as Daise’Engineer. Surely he would protest reporting to a junior officer. Lerak was loyal to her and she did not think he would seek to usurp her, but how would his promotion affect his attitude? Only time would tell on that account. She refused to worry over it at the present time, so she pushed it from her mind. She would handle that situation if it arose. Thoughts drifting back to N’Dak, Laehval decided that she did not envy him in the slightest. Though she may have felt a brief twinge of jealousy upon hearing of his posting, she knew that he had hard times coming ahead. t’Rexan did him no favors by elevating his status. And now that the woman was incapacitated in the medical bay, N’Dak would have only grudging support – if any – from the other officers. Like Laehval, many of the crew still blamed him for his father’s actions. She had later changed her way of thinking when she realized that the Deihu N’Dak lavished his sons with the same sort of scorn and mistreatment as he did everyone else. Absently she wondered, when t’Rexan recovered (if she recovered), if the woman would realize the same thing, or if she would continue to blame the dheno officer for her own failings. In Laehval’s opinion, the odds were not in Destorie’s favor. One thing was certain, if Destorie N’Dak was now running the ship, Laehval could not avoid him as she usually did. Rising from her chair, she skirted the edge of her desk and stalked out into Main Engineering, waving away a crewman as he thought to question her about his current orders. They could survive in Engineering without her for an hour or two. Entering the lift, she called for the Oira, heading up to face her biggest nightmare – N’Dak in command.
  14. WHOA! I miss a sim and N'Dak is put in charge? Pexil! Ksa! What part of "Don't let them put N'Dak in charge" didn't you understand? Honestly, I need to find better minions or something. Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse... You put the filk singer / songwriter in charge! Just wait until he busts out his rendition of the Lion King song "Be Prepared." ::cracks up::
  15. Robbie had scoffed when the Psychic told him he'd soon be singing soprano. In the instant before his crotch slammed into the handlebars of his bike, he decided he should have given her a better tip.
  16. "Waiter, There's a Spy in my Coup" A Joint Log From Engineers: El'Riov Laehval t'Temarr & El'Arrain Lerak tr'Pexil “Grab a table, would au? Perhaps io by the view ports?” Laehval preceded Lerak into the mess hall, moving to one of the replicators to fix them both some sort of fruit drink. She didn’t even know if he’d like it, but she really didn’t care. He could always get his own. It was just easier to replicate two at once. She didn’t even know why she picked the mess hall. Perhaps it was the one place that no one would seek her out? She spent little time socializing, preferring to take her meals in the privacy of her own quarters. Lerak scanned the far side of the mess hall for a table with a view, curious as to the reason why she wanted him here. Pointing once he found one to his liking, “That io over there in the corner.” “Menkha.” Nodding, she removed their drinks as they materialized. “Lead the way.” A quick glance of the room told her that they would have little chance of being overheard. There were not many in attendance. No doubt the rest of the crew was too interested in the tribunal hearings to pull themselves away from the live holo-casts. Lerak headed to the table with only a brief glance behind to check that she was following. Looking to the view ports, he noted that because the Talon was not yet underway, they would be deprived the lovely spectacle of watching the stars speeding toward them at Warp nine. “Here we are. All metal and dark.” He let her sit down first, then sat down himself. Laehval sank bonelessly into the seat opposite his as if the weight of Talon’s manufactured atmosphere was too much for her to bear. Drinks on the table, she slid one across to him. “Just fruit juice. A mixture that someone turned me onto.” He inspected his drink, still having no clue what she’d replicated. Poisionous? Drugged? One could never tell. After his situation of being considered a Federation agent he was never quite sure what people thought of him. Jokingly, he wondered if after drinking it he would wake in some empty corridor without his clothing, identification, or credits. “Well, glad those proceedings are over with,” he said with genuine relief. “Ie. Very glad. I do na like being interrogated by my own people.” Toying with her glass, her gaze met his from across the table. “Ie, we do have a reputation in the galaxy for our... information gathering techniques. Especially with our own people. But I am guessing the trial is na why au have invited me for fruit juice.” He took a sip, enjoying the mixture of tart and sweet. “From what I know of au, au are na interested in politics.” “Na, I find political gain useless.” She sat for a moment, watching him. “I felt that we needed to have a serious discussion about the state of things. The Talon is in turmoil and I do na like it. I also feel as though I have been lax in my duties as Daise. I... I am na sure what to do at this point. This last episode with the alien creatures has left me... unsettled. I want nothing more than to hide away in my cabin and fling away my responsibilities.” “That would surely leave the ship with a lack of discipline in engineering, while the scout ships remain all pristine in my care. I have been a bit out of the loop since my post in small craft section, but I think I have an idea of what au are saying. Are au thinking about a change in leadership?” He took a larger sip than the last. Her gaze altered between him and the liquid in her glass, though she’d yet to take a drink. Fingertips wiped away condensation from the outer surface. “I am na exactly certain what I am planning, except that I do want au out of the shuttle bay and in Main Engineering. Au are wasted down there. We have plenty of uhlan that could handle that post.” She paused, thinking. “Lerak, I do na just want a change in leadership, I want au to be that leader. Too often, I am in a foul mood and I think many of the engineers are frightened of me lest I chop off their heads or the like. I have never wanted to be bothered with command, but it is na something I would give up hna that I see what menkha I can do the Talon. I want au to start handling the majority of the departmental issues.” Giving him her full attention now, her brown eyes focused on his face. “I do na know what to say. I happen to like the fear of having ones head chopped off.” He smiled, then answered her seriously. “I am sorry, I am making light of aur ideas. If au want me, I can take over Main Engineering. What do au wish to do? Are au planning on leaving the ship?” The thought of her leaving was a frightening possibility because... “It has been difficult for all of us. Some here still think I am a spy for the Federation.” “There has only ever been io person on this ship that thought au were a spy, and she has accused nearly every single person at least once. As far as I am concerned, the council will mete out what she deserves. Too many times has she punished officers for something far beyond their realm of control. Hna the same is being done to her. Perhaps it will cause her to think before she places blame in the future. But enough on that topic.” Laehval snorted, not wishing sully the conversation with talk of t’Rexan. “I am na planning on leaving the Talon. At this point, the only way they would let any of us leave is if we were in stasis… or yy’a. Have au na counted the number of dangerous missions on which we have been sent? Most of them are those from which we were never expected to return. Na, I am na leaving. But I do think there needs to be a change.” Her gaze leveled at him. “What do au think?” “Some of the directives are undoubtedly coming from the Empire itself. Only politics can change that I am afraid.” He thought on it for a moment. “Is there something specific that au would like me to help au with? I have always trusted au here. I would entrust my life to au if need be.” Realizing he had been staring at her for quite a few minutes, he peered down at his drink. Perhaps this is the appropriate time, he thought, but pushed it quickly away before he did something he might regret. “Au have na touched aur drink.” He blushed as he glanced back up, hoping she would not notice. “I have observed that au have appeared ‘alone’ for a while hna in Main Engineering, and elsewhere. But then, I know little about au. Were au na involved with Destorie tr’N’dak for a short while?” Having finally taken a sip of her juice, Laehval nearly choked. A coughing fit ensued until she was able to breathe at last. “N’DAK!” The outburst was probably heard all the way on ch’Rihan. “Me?! Mated to that?!” She was obviously aghast at the very idea. “He is the most infuriating male I have ever known! Most of the time, my only desire is to take a plasma cutter and remove his tongue. Perhaps then I would be spared the sarcastic rhetoric that I am forced to endure when in his presence.” She fumed at the very thought. “Do na speak to me of him. My discussion with him is na finished. Na by a long shot.” Lerak looked at her in horror, having nearly jumped out of his chair at the burst of violent emotion. “Forgive me for mentioning it. I should na have given basis to such a rumor. I did na mean to upset au. It seems as though neither of us have pursued any relationships of late. I know I have na.” “Na, it is I that must apologize.” Laehval took a deep breath to calm herself and turned her attention back to him. “I must learn to better control my temper. Au have always been a good friend, Lerak.” On impulse, she reached across the table to pat his hand, giving it a slight squeeze before withdrawing. “I am entirely too stressed at the present time. I have na right to yell at au.” “Perhaps my first duty would be to lighten aur schedule a bit. Mandatory relaxation? Whips, chains... the classics.” What the elements was he saying? It sounded like he was suggesting some kind of Ferengi holo-suite program. He blushed again, but grinned despite the fact that he didn’t seem to be in control of his own mouth. Hurriedly, he continued. “Are there going to be others joining us? In engineering, I mean.” Laehval just blinked at him. “For as angry as I may seem all the time, I can have just as much fun as the next female. Whips and chains aside...” Her grin matched his own, for she had caught his blush, and she hardly thought him the type, “I have decided to start being... friendly. Especially to new crew members. If the entire Senior staff seems unapproachable, then how would we ever receive input? New brains are excellent for fresh, new ideas.” “And I am na certain if we will be receiving any new officers in our department. We certainly need them to counter those that have died during service.” She shook her head. “How about au help me with a new program for the HIC? Perhaps io that any of the crew can enjoy. Elements knows this ship has few diversions.” “Programming is na my specialty, mind au, but I could search for something beyond the Talon database.” Drinking the last of his fruit concoction, he motioned to the nearest server, speaking softly once she reached him. A few moments later, something steaming and fizzing was delivered and placed on the table. “I have something interesting for au hna. Here, try this...” He slid it across to her. “What is it?” “Just trust me and try it. It is harmless.” The liquid was violet in color and appeared to be boiling. It certainly didn’t look harmless. Though she looked dubiously at the concoction, she did lift it up for her inspection. With an uplifted brow, she pressed the cup to her lips and took a small drink. She did trust him… mostly. There was still that unresolved ceiling-tile-falling-on-her-head incident that she wasn’t convinced he didn’t manufacture. He smiled as he waited for the effects to take hold. Normally they did not last long, but he thought she could benefit. “It is a tea that has curious Serotonin properties for the brain. Each time it can cause different effects. Sometimes relaxation, enhanced senses, mood alteration… even sensuality. Just something to place on aur drink list.” “Interesting.” She took another drink to experience the full flavor, though she showed no signs that it effected her otherwise. “So, do au have any assignments if this transfer is approved?” He smiled, pleased that she seemed to like the tea, or that she was at least not letting on that she disliked it. “Aur transfer into Main Engineering? That is na something that has to be approved. That will be done because I make it so. I do na plan on consulting anyone on the matter.” Determined on that factor. “And na, I do na have any current assignments. Our main goal at the moment is to get the Talon back in working order. We are in a sad state of affairs from our last battle. We always seem to be losing sections of the hull.” “I do wish to start incorporating certain... systems... into the subroutines, but that is something better discussed in private.” Her wary glance around the room told him that her ideas were probably not legal, nor sanctioned, by the Galae. “Ah, perhaps some nice cup holders.” He smirked, understanding, but not commenting. They would speak of it later, he was certain. Boldly, he reached for her hand and patted it gently. “If this reassignment helps au in any way I am happy to assist.” “Hann’yyo. I knew that au would understand what I meant. I am hoping that au can help me to change things. First our department, then the rest of the ship. Things can na go on the way they have been. I realize that hna.” She sighed. “Anyhow, did au have any other questions?” “Just io. Are au counting this as the dinner I suggested so long ago that we share?” “Drinks hardly qualify as dinner, Lerak.” “Menkha. Very menkha.” He grinned a little wider.
  17. I really need that Kidney Stone to go with my Shatner collection. Already I have my William Shatner nose hair display, my William Shatner eye-booger figurines, and my William Shatner pocket lint earrings. If it is a good sized stone, maybe I could get someone to carve an image of his face into it. There are people that work in small things like that, you know. Like the guys that write Chinese phrases on tiny grains of rice.
  18. All of those freakin' cracked me up. The Winner is LoAmi for the use of a Star Trek line. :rolleyes: Honorable mention goes to both Ganval and CaptainSDavies for making me snort soda out of my nose. Go LoAmi!
  19. New picture:
  20. Ashtray Stolen from a Motel 6 - $ 0.00 Dollars Favorite Red Squeaky Toy - $ 3.00 Dollars Soft Pack of Marlboro Lights - $ 8.00 Dollars Bottle of Red Label Whiskey - $ 20.00 Dollars Passing out on a Foreign Newspaper after a Wild Night of Partying - Priceless
  21. Wasn't this the premise for the movie Under Siege 2: Dark Territory? Honestly, I think Steven Segal should sue!
  22. Beyond the Edge... Colonel Jocelyn Nidari Chief of Tactical Operations “Joel!” Jerking as the voice yelled in his ear, the Starfleet Lieutenant smacked his head on the console he’d been working on. On his back, his head half in and half out of the malfunctioning unit, the engineer put one hand to his head and peered out at his attacker. “Blast it all, Anna! Scaring me half to death is NOT funny!” “It is to me. You scream like a girl.” The perky blonde poked him in the stomach as she crouched down beside him. “Beta shift is heading to the lounge for a few drinks. You coming?” “Yea, yea. I’ll be there. I need to patch up this relay and reboot. Will only take me about ten more minutes or so. Save me a seat, will ya?” “Will do, Joey.” She smirked. “Don’t call me Joey! Now get out of here you strumpet before I take a plasma cutter to your perfect hair.” He brandished his tool like a weapon, a smile of his own answering hers. “You are so cute when you are angry. Hurry it up, then, or Ensign Peters is going to start pawing all over me. And if you wait too long, I may just let him.” “Woman! Go!” “Easy there, tiger!” The security officer bounced to her feet and turned to leave, but paused just as she reached the door. “Oh, and before I forget, the Chief says you got a message waiting. Don’t know from who, but it isn’t Starfleet. Now hurry!” Joel sighed and finished up his work once Anna finally disappeared from view. Rubbing his abused head and muttering to himself, he slid out from beneath the console and closed it up, latching it securely. A quick sequence on the display above it brought it to life and sent it through the initiation sequences. While he was waiting for the unit to reboot, he dropped into a nearby chair and logged on to another console. Engineering was running dark at the moment with only a skeleton crew on third shift, Joel was reasonably sure of his privacy. The few engineers that were on duty were elsewhere at the moment, either seeing to repairs about the station or handling maintenance work in the Jefferies tubes. The thrum of the warp core was the only thing that broke the silence, steadily vibrating through the deck plating. The beep from the computer sounded unearthly loud in his ears as the computer opened his message. Seated in what looked to be substandard living quarters, a young woman peered at him as though she could actually see him sitting there. The sound of his heart beating in his ears blocked out the warp drive and even the woman’s first words as she started to speak. Joel jerked his hand forward to pause the message, staring at the screen for what seemed an eternity. His chest seemed to compress, making it hard to breathe. Calming himself as best he could, he took a deep breath and restarted the message from the beginning. Even so, he nearly missed her first words again as he couldn’t seem to form a single cohesive thought. “Hey Joel,” she said softly. “Surprised? I bet you are gaping like a dying fish right about now.” He snapped his mouth shut indignantly. “Last person you expected to hear from, eh? I know. Strange of me to call. I’m not sending this to you to get you in any trouble or anything. I’m having it routed through several couriers so it can’t be traced, and I suggest that you didn’t even try. I know you will, anyway. That is your nature. You’ll be shoulder deep in encrypted code before too long.” She shrugged as if she already knew it was inevitable and that she wasn’t bothered by it. Shifting in her seat, she pushed a lock of brown hair from her face. It had gotten longer since he’d last seen her. He wondered if she’d let it grow because he liked it that way. “Listen, Joel. It recently occurred to me that I haven’t been the world’s greatest little sister. Understatement of the millennia, I know. I’ve hurt you worse than I’ve ever hurt anyone before and I never meant to. I know how things are between us. You’d probably shoot me if you ever saw me again. I can’t say that I really blame you. Your perception of me is horrible, and I can’t say anything that will make you change your mind on that count. I had a reason for doing the things I did. I really wish you’d been able to see that. You are wasted in Starfleet. We know how to appreciate the resources we have. But… I’m trying to recruit again, and that isn’t why I sent you this.” She sighed and bowed her head for a moment, running her fingers through her hair as she tried to think of the right words to say. Joel placed one hand on the screen, watching the warring emotions flicker across her face. What she said was true, or would have been true at one point, but he had changed since they had last seen each other. He was still Federation to the core, but he was not as angry with the N.F.A. as he had once been. He pitied them more than anything, sad that they were throwing their lives away in what he perceived as a suicidal coup. Now, he only missed his sister, and hoped that she’d see the error of her ways and return to what was right. “Sorry. Leave it to me to get all emotional while I’m talking to a lifeless comm unit. I always seem to ramble when I’m talking to you. Well, to get to the point… we’re leaving soon. Some mission. Can’t talk about it, of course. You know how that goes. Anyway, I’ve survived so many of these missions that I’m sure my luck is soon to run out. You can only fight the system so much before it blows up in your face.” “If anything happens, I just wanted to let you know that I love you. I have always loved you, even when we didn’t get along. I miss you more than you’ll ever guess. I know it sounds stupid coming from me… I never said it growing up and maybe I should have. I never told Mom and Dad how much they meant before… you know. I’ve always regretted that. I didn’t want to have regrets about you, too.” “So I’m going to send this before I realize how stupid I am and delete it. Take care of yourself, big brother, and watch your back. I hear those NFA agents are trouble.” She grinned at him, wiping away a single tear that had escaped. “I love you, Joey. From your little sister, Jocelyn.” Choking down the lump of emotion in his throat, Joel stopped the message again and stared at the image of his sister. She had changed so much, but the Joss he’d known and loved was still there, although deeply buried. He wondered if she missed the days at the beach house when they had no cares at all and could spend all day playing in the ocean. He could still remember the day his parents brought her home. Though already nine years old, she’d been so tiny and afraid of her own shadow. Any resistance he’d had at his parents adopting had melted away the first moment he laid eyes on her. He couldn’t help himself. If anyone had needed an older brother to protect them, Jocelyn had. And he thought he had been the best big brother a girl could ever have. It had nearly killed him when he found out she’d betrayed Starfleet. He hated her for that, but he could never stay angry at her for long. And now it seemed as if she was lost to him forever… “Snap out of it Joel. You’ll see her again. This little rebellion will be over soon and she’ll be back before you know it.” His words sounded empty and hollow even to himself.
  23. I have to agree with Sam. Zaph wins today's prize! Here you go... it is a lifetime subscription to Science weekly and a VHS tape of Bill Nye the Science Guy. Plus, you get to post your own picture. ;)
  24. Wow! I won something! Okay, so I'm watching my 1st Season DVD set of MacGyver that I just for for Christmas and I realize how corny the show really is. MacGyver manages to take off his shirt in nearly episode (I mean, almost as much as Captain Kirk), and there is always a girl that he has to save... and who is SO thankful for his help that she has to kiss him at least once. I really can't say that I blame, them, though. I'd make out with Richard Dean Anderson any time! ;) So in honor of Mac, here is a picture for you to make fun of...
  25. Personally, I like Firefly Class the best... ;) Though Terok Nor Class comes in a very close second... Hahahahahahahahahaha.