User:Rich/Sandbox

Saving old Yahoo sims currently linked on my character pages:

LtCmdr Rahman: Life Signs
14 Oct 2012

((Computer Core Control Room, Deck 13, USS Mercury))

Rahman: Any luck getting in touch with the outside?

West: Well, not in normal ways no. But I have tapped into the view screen on the bridge and created a scroll on the top of the screen and sending the Bridge a text style message.

Rahman: ::nods:: Simple but effective.

West: I have it repeating, it will grow larger until it is cut off, if it is cut off then this station will send us a notification and we will know the bridge got the message.

::Sure enough, within a few moments, someone on the bridge had noticed West's message. Meanwhile, Crewman Efili called out to the officers.::

Efili: Commander, Lieutenant Rawden's condition appears to be deteriorating.

::Ensign West walked over and knelt beside the injured engineering officer.::

West: Lt. You have a pneumothorax. This means that you have air and gases in your pleural space.

Rawden: In my... what?

::Roshanara watched as the ensign explained the life-threatening condition. He then held up a tiny tube.::

West: I am going to stick this into your chest wall and release the gases and air. This will hurt, but once in you will no longer feel it and you should start feeling much better.

Rawden: Do it!

::The ensign turned and gave out directions for Roshanara and Efili to hold the lieutenant down. Rawden groaned in pain as West carried out the procedure. A hiss of air could be heard from the tube soon after.::

West: All better my friend.

Rawden: Thank... you!

::West got up and walked over to the other side of the room. The chief engineer let out a sigh. Well, at least that was one thing taken care of.::

::Suddenly, there was a loud groan from the bulkheads around them.::

Rawden: Nnnn, N..now what?

::Crewman Efili looked up and around the room.::

Efili: Someone is trying to disengage the shielding protocols remotely...

Rahman: ::to West:: Ensign, check on if the bridge has sent us a response. What's the status of the ship's systems?

West: RESPONSE

::Just then, the chief engineer's combadge chirped. It seemed communications were back.::

Spencer: =/\= Commander Rahman, I got your message and the room is not on lock down anymore. I have Sickbay on their way. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Good. Please have a medical team check on Ensign Hill in transporter room one as well. =/\=

Spencer: =/\= I will see what we can do commander. =/\=

::After the comline closed, Roshanara knelt back down by Rawden.::

Rahman: You still with me, lieutenant?

Rawden: Just about, Ma'am.

Rahman: Help is on the way.

Rawden: That's good.

::She took out a pain reliever from the medkit nearby and administered it to the injured engineer.::

Rahman: This should help take away some of the sting.

Rawden: Working wonders.

::She nodded and checked the lieutenant's condition on the medical tricorder. He would probably need some time to recuperate in sickbay, but he was going to make it.::

::With the medical tricorder still out, she decided she should check on West's previous injury as well, in case his head trauma had been something more serious. Tapping the screen, she went to select one of the other two life signs in the room.::

Rahman: oO Wait a minute... two? Oo

::A dark shadow fell over her from behind.::

Efili: Is something wrong, commander?

::Roshanara quickly snapped the tricorder shut, turning towards the Arkenite who was now standing right over her.::

Rahman: ...no, crewman.

::She cleared her throat.::

Rahman: If you could stay by Lieutenant Rawden's side, I need to check on Ensign West's injuries as well.

Efili: Of course, commander.

Rawden: RESPONSE

::She got up and made her way quickly to the ensign, who was still at his workstation, checking the other systems.::

Rahman: ::whispers:: Ensign West, we have a problem.

West: RESPONSE

::She kept her voice low, but the concern in her eyes was clear.::

Rahman: I don't believe Crewman Efili is who he says he is.

West: RESPONSE

::She opened the medical tricorder and pointed to the three life signs.::

Rahman: Two humans, one Kriosian. The medical tricorder doesn't register any other lifesigns in the vicinity...

West: RESPONSE

::They turned over to look back at Efili, but he was nowhere to be seen around Rawden. Roshanara stood up and took a few steps forward to try to get a better look when the form of the Arkenite abruptly shimmered into view right in front of her. She fell back in surprise.::

Rahman: Ya Allah!

::The Arkenite--or at least the Arkenite-looking figure--tilted his head and raised his brow. He replied in her native tongue.::

Efili: No, I am not he. But I do hear all in my domain, commander.

::The chief didn't have a phaser on her, and she wasn't sure if West had one either. They weren't exactly standard issue for non-security personnel on a science ship. She tried to keep the situation calm, stalling for time.::

Rahman: ::in Federation standard:: Who are you?

Efili: As I said, you may call me Efili.

West: RESPONSE

Rawden: RESPONSE

Rahman: You're a hologram?

Efili: No, this form is merely an avatar to assist with our interaction.

West: RESPONSE

Rawden: RESPONSE

Rahman: Are you responsible for the computer glitches we've been experiencing?

::For the first time, the Arkenite showed a hint of emotion as a slight smirk formed on his face.::

Efili: I am sorry, but I must attend to other matters now. ::He looked over at the other two men before turning back to Roshanara.:: Thank you, commander, this has been most enlightening.

::And as soon as he had appeared, his image dissipated into nothingness.::

Rahman: ::to West:: Find out where he went!

West: RESPONSE

::She tapped her combadge.::

Rahman: =/\= Rahman to Bridge! =/\=

Wulfantine/Bridge: =/\= RESPONSE =/\=

Rahman: =/\= We have an intruder aboard. Some sort of intelligence... it might be artificial or it might be some other kind of life form... =/\=

Wulfantine/Bridge: =/\= RESPONSE =/\=

Rahman: =/\= He used a hologram to masquerade as a crewman. Security should be advised. Whatever he is, he's gone back into hiding. =/\=

Wulfantine/Bridge: =/\= RESPONSE =/\=

West/Rawden: RESPONSE

TAG!

Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman
Chief Engineer
USS Mercury



LtCmdr Rahman: Engineer's Hell
21 Oct 2012

((OOC: Well, since I do write for the Mercury's chief engineer, I figured it was time she got her own master systems display (MSD), i.e. the cutaway diagram you often see in engineering or the bridge: http://wiki.starbase118.net/wiki/index.php?title=File:MercuryMSD.png

Don't take it too seriously. I just put the "landmarks" roughly where they're supposed to be, but it's by no means meant to actually serve as a true directory for your imagination. :P ))

IC:
((Main Engineering, USS Mercury))

::Lt. Commander Roshanara Rahman made her way up to Main Engineering for her first "real" day on the job as the Mercury's newest chief engineer. She was still a bit tired from the previous night's misadventure in the computer core, but it wasn't anything a good cup of coffee couldn't fix.::

::As the turbolift approached deck 15, she could already hear the pulse of the massive warp core pounding the deck, the heart beat of the Mercury. She walked down the corridor and reached the large blast doors that separated Main Engineering from the rest of the deck. As the doors separated, she gazed upward at the sight of the matter/antimatter reaction assembly that spanned three decks. A large, middle-aged bearded man turned when she entered and nodded as he approached her.::

MacNeil: Good mornin', commander.

::Roshanara turned towards the man, her gaze still directed up. Apparently everybody in the Mercury's engineering department except her was at least 180 cm tall.::

Rahman: Good morning. I'm Lieutenant Commander Roshanara Rahman.

MacNeil: ::nods:: Yes, we've been preppin' for your arrival, sir.

::The man spoke with a thick Scottish accent and extended his arm. Roshanara noted he, like Commander Matthews, was also left-handed.::

MacNeil: Lieutenant Graham MacNeil, assistant chief engineer.

Rahman: I look forward to working with you, Mr. MacNeil.

MacNeil: Thank you, sir. Likewise.

::Roshanara gave a restrained smile.::

Rahman: Actually, lieutenant, although I understand it is Starfleet protocol, I would prefer not to be addressed as "sir."

::The tall man gave an embarrassed look, his cheeks starting to blush and match the red hairs of his beard.::

MacNeil: Oh, my apologies, ma'am.

Rahman: ::waves him off with her hand:: It's all right. You're not the first...

::He returned a smile.::

MacNeil: The department was actually a bit lackin' in gender diversity before the recent transfers from StarBase 118.

Rahman: No explanation needed. So, why don't you give me a brief overview of how you've been running things down here, especially in regards to any changes from the original specifications?

::The man responded instinctively.::

MacNeil: Aye, s- ...commander. ::clears throat:: I promise I'll work on that.

::Roshanara smiled as the man began showing her around.::

((later))

::The two senior engineers slowly walked through the department as other engineers worked around them. They were circling the warp core on the upper level when Lieutenant MacNeil was explaining one of the Mercury's many quirks.::

MacNeil: ...and we've found that if we direct plasma flow through the secondary relays for an additional cycle rather than channel 'em back to the primary leads, we actually increase overall efficiency by 14%.

Rahman: Interesting... any ideas as to why that is?

MacNeil: ::shakes his head:: So far, we cannae come up with any solid evidence to back any particular hypothesis. You might talk to Chief Warrant Officer Walker, though. He previously was ship's chief engineer and is now workin' R&D through the SCE. He might have some explanations of his own.

::She nodded as she looked back towards the warp core. Something had caught her attention, and she walked over to take a closer look. She tilted her head and furrowed her brow at the sight of a strange device planted on the side of the structure.::

Rahman: Lieutenant, what's this you've got tapping into the reaction assembly?

::The man stepped up close behind her, gazing over her shoulder.::

MacNeil: I don't know, ma'am... that's the first time I've seen that.

::She turned around, not pleased to hear that answer.::

Rahman: Lieutenant...

::He put his hands up.::

MacNeil: I'll get right to the bottom of this, commander. Just wait right here.

::He quickly made his way back down to the main level of engineering to consult with some of the other engineers. As Roshanara waited, she decided to take a tricorder out from a nearby wall panel and scan the device. It seemed to be some sort of modulator for the core. She ran a more extensive scan to see what exactly it was doing. Her eyes widened as the results displayed on her screen.::

::She ran over to the railing and looked down towards the main deck.::

Rahman: Lieutenant! It's an incendiary device! Raise the containment shield and shut down the core immediately!

::MacNeil and several engineers stopped their conversation and looked up at her. The assistant chief engineer had a puzzled glance for a second before quickly nodding.::

MacNeil: Aye!

::He ran over to the chief engineer's office to initiate the shut down. Meanwhile, Roshanara yelled to the other engineers below.::

Rahman: Everybody out! Now!

::As yellow shirts began evacuating, she tapped her combadge.::

Rahman: =/\= Engineering to Security! =/\=

Security: =/\= RESPONSE =/\=

Rahman: =/\= We've got an incendiary device planted on the warp core! Please send a dismantling team down immediately to investi-

::She stopped in mid-sentence as she heard a high-pitched whine and saw a light suddenly start flashing quickly on the device. She dived for cover behind a console as the device exploded, sending a wave of fire past her. It was only the start though as she heard another rumble. A second or so later, the entire ship shook with such force that she nearly slid off the upper platform.::

::Below on the main level, she heard the screams of the engineers who hadn't made it out as a brilliant flash tore through the rest of the deck. For a brief moment, she waited for the warp core breach that would come, and with it, death like on the Tempest six years ago. However, death passed over her once again; the containment shield held as dark smoke quickly filled the air.::

::Soon, it was eerily quiet. The warp core's pulse had disappeared and only the crackling of plasma fires burning in the background could be heard. She looked around for an extinguisher and a hazard mask in an equipment locker on the upper level and made her way down to the main level. She gasped at the sight.::

::The entire level smelt of ash and burnt bodies were strewn across the deck. She walked slowly towards the chief engineer's office. Sparks shot out from some of the displays. As she ran her gaze across the room, she saw a charred corpse with red hair lying over the main console, its hands still over the warp core controls.::

::Behind her, fires continued to burn. She took off her mask and tapped her combadge.::

Rahman: =/\= Engineering to Medical... Security... =/\=

::She turned around and looked at the other bodies around her. This wasn't like the Tempest at all. This was much worse. Her fingers began to tremble, and her voice became shaky as she finally yelled out.::

Rahman: =/\= Anyone, please! ...respond! =/\=

Medical/Security/Anyone: RESPONSE

TAG!

Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman
Chief Engineer
USS Mercury


LtCmdr Rahman: Duty
1 Nov 2012

((Main Engineering, USS Mercury))

Rahman: =/\= You think you can help the doctor out? =/\=

West: =/\= ? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Let me know if your team has issues. We're rather occupied at the moment as you can imagine, but I can send Lieutenant Rawden if needed. =/\=

West: =/\= ? =/\=

Rawden: Aye Ma'am, I can do it.

Del Vedova: If it makes you feel better, Lieutenant, all that we'd require of you is help with modifying the xenobio stasis units.

Rawden: Phew!

Del Vedova: Good. Either you or West contact me when you're ready for transport.

Rawden: Aye Doctor.

::Roshanara went back to work as the junior engineer and the science officer worked out the details, but it didn't take long for Del to approach her.::

Del Vedova: (abruptly) He's not trained for this. None of them were. Nor were you, but at least you've seen it.

Rahman: Excuse me?

::She furrowed her brow at him, trying to understand what he was getting at. For his part, the man quickly became defensive.::

Del Vedova: I'm not making any point. I'm only observing. (beat) I think.

Rahman: You're wrong, doctor. We were trained for this. In fact, that's the only thing keeping me going right now. My training and my duty to the ship.

::She looked around at the rest of the engineering crew working to restore main power and repair the damage.::

Rahman: And I'm sure it goes the same for them as well. It's not easy. Not even after what I saw before... but they'll survive and be stronger because of this.

::Though she said the words without hesitation, truthfully, she could only hope the crew would respond as such. However, before the doctor could reply, an older, white-haired woman announced her arrival on the scene.::

Welty: Catastrophic. A stain upon this ship -- any ship. You, you're the chief?

Rahman: ::nods:: Yes, Commander Rahman. Just transferred from the Pioneer.

Welty: You'll want counseling. Blaming yourself and all.

::Roshanara raised an eyebrow at the presumption, but she couldn't get too upset. Especially when the woman was right.::

Welty: Meantime, you better take down their names, less you already have.

Rahman: I've yet to go through the list, actually. Del- ::She corrected herself.:: Dr. Del Vedova and his team went through though, and I'll cross reference the roster with their findings.

Del Vedova: They're already tagged, as well.

Welty: Competent. I'll just check 'em, then, make sure you didn't mess. Tag a live one.

::Del seemed to take umbrage at the suggestion.::

Del Vedova: I was careful--

Welty: 'Course you were. But you're ER. Triage, fast-pace, all that. I'll check. 'Scuse.

::Roshanara raised another eyebrow, this time in amusement as the other doctor went off to double check the corpses.::

Rahman: I see you're not the only stubborn doctor aboard.

::He shrugged back at her.::

Del Vedova: I envy Velana. At least they listen to her.

Rahman: Hmmph. ::grins:: That's because they have to. If it makes you feel any better, I think you're all uptight know-it-alls whose egos could use a little bruising now and then. Disagree?

Del Vedova: No. I guess not. (beat) Listen. You need any help around here? I'm not an engineer but I guess you'll need some extra personnel. I can push buttons or twist wrenches.

::She looked at him for a moment. She wasn't sure if he was being genuinely thoughtful or if he had hit his head harder than she had thought.::

Rahman: I would think you'd be more needed helping patch up the rest of my staff back in sickbay.

Del Vedova: ?

Rahman: Well, all right, I suppose. Doctors must be good with their hands, after all, eh?

Del Vedova: ?

Rahman: Let's start with getting the EPS mains back online. We'll have to go through a few Jefferies tubes to get to them. You're not claustrophobic are you?

Del Vedova: ?

Rahman: Good, because I'm not carrying you out. You nearly knocked me over when you almost passed out back there.

Del Vedova: ?

::As they headed towards the access hatch, she turned to him.::

Rahman: By the way, down here, Del, in front of my staff, it's *Commander* Rahman. "Chief" if you're in a pinch.

Del Vedova: ?

Rahman: Though I suppose it's only fair that if I can call you Del, you can call me Roshanara if you'd like. "Roshni" if that's too many syllables for you to handle.

Del Vedova: ?

::She looked up and opened the upper hatch and began climbing the ladder to the next junction.::

Rahman: Try to keep up, and don't get stuck.

Del Vedova: ?

((Later that evening))

::With Del's help, the engineering crew were able to restore main power to life support and get the tactical systems Commander Cain wanted. However, the ship was still effectively dead in space, and it'd take at least another day before Roshanara and her staff would be able to get the ship moving again.::

::It wasn't so much the engines that had been damaged as the ship's navigational sensors and ODN relays that connected the various systems to bridge control. Whoever planted the explosives had wanted to cripple the Mercury, both stranding and blinding it. But why? An ambush seemed most likely, but none had come.::

::Regardless, Roshanara took the downtime after her long day to finally look over the casualty report. Many of the names were familiar, but only because she had been studying their records earlier while waiting for the Mercury on StarBase 118. And now, she would be writing letters referencing only what she knew from those previous bullet points of achievements and service records, since she didn't really get to know any of them substantially.::

::In some ways, that would have seemed to make it easier, but it didn't. If anything, it made her words of condolence seem shallower. She sighed as she put down the PADD with her draft still incomplete. She walked over to her desktop viewer and contacted Starfleet Personnel back on Earth, where the day was just starting.::

::She explained the situation to the officer on the other line, a lieutenant named Zikiya. The man nodded, though he seemed distracted with other inquiries.::

Zikiya: =/\= Yes, we received the casualty report from your medical department. We've actually begun notifying the families. In situations like these, your letter as their department head would be compiled with the letter from the commanding officer. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Yes, that could take some time actually... =/\=

::She didn't feel the need to tell the admin officer about Kell's kidnapping if the man didn't already know.::

Rahman: =/\= ...I'm having a bit of trouble writing the letters effectively. I was just assigned as their department head. Today was actually my first day in that capacity officially. =/\=

::That seemed to catch the man's attention, and he returned a sympathetic look.::

Zikiya: =/\= I'm sorry, commander. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= I am, too... =/\=

Zikiya: =/\= In some cases, superior officers have opted to speak directly with family members. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= I'm not exactly back on Earth or Bolarus IX. =/\=

Zikiya: =/\= No, but our officers have the equipment to link with a holo-com transmission from ships in the field. One of our officers Commander Schumacher is actually prepping to begin making the notifications for those with families on Earth later today. I can contact the commander to expect you if you'd like. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= I'd appreciate that. =/\=

::After connecting with Schumacher, Roshanara went over some of the details of the process. A few hours later, she found herself in the Mercury's holodeck. First on the notification list was Lieutenant MacNeil. Commander Schumacher would start the conversation without her, which meant that Roshanara would be spared the actual difficult moment of breaking the bad news.::

::Yet waiting for the holo-com to activate was nerve-racking in itself. Despite Schumacher's advice, she really had no idea what to expect. This was her first posting as a department head, and even when she was the assistant chief engineer of the Pioneer, she hadn't seen the details of what this particular duty would involve. Just when she was beginning to wonder if this was a bad idea, the holo-grid activated around her.::

::She found herself sitting in a partial recreation of a modest home in Edinburgh, Scotland. Across from her was a petite woman sitting on the edge of a sofa. A small wooden table separating them. To her left sat the tall figure of Commander Mathias Schumacher, who had been working in his current capacity with Starfleet Personnel for the past two years. Roshanara couldn't imagine having to do this for a month, let alone 24.::

Schumacher: Commander Rahman, this is Anisha Chandrasekaran, Lieutenant MacNeil's wife.

::The other woman nodded quietly. She wasn't crying, nor did it look like she had been. Roshanara returned a somber nod.::

Rahman: Ms. Chandrasekaran, please allow me to extend my deepest condolences.

::The woman kept her eyes locked on the chief engineer but didn't say anything. After waiting a few moments, Roshanara decided to speak up again to fill the uncomfortable silence.::

Rahman: I didn't have the pleasure to get to know your husband as much as I would have liked before the tragic events aboard the Mercury, but even just in the brief time that we worked together, I could tell he was a fine officer and a good man, an assessment I know that is shared with his previous commanding officers.

::It was a line she had written in her original draft, a line whose wording she had wrestled with for nearly an hour.::

::Again Ms. Chandrasekaran said nothing.::

Rahman: I want you to know that his actions saved the lives of his shipmates. (beat) And I felt that you should hear that from his department head in person. ::She took a deep breath in.:: If there's anything I can do, please just let me know.

::The woman's gaze remained on Roshanara before finally turning down towards the table. The chief engineer glanced over at Commander Schumacher, who nodded as if to reassure her everything was all right. He then spoke up.::

Schumacher: His service will always be remembered.

::After another moment of silence, MacNeil's widow finally spoke up.::

Chandrasekaran: Commander Rahman, may I ask you something?

Rahman: Of course.

::The other woman looked up back at Roshanara.::

Chandrasekaran: Are you married? Do you have children?

::The chief engineer hadn't expected personal questions about herself. She hesitated for a moment, hoping the difficult conversation wasn't going to turn sour.::

Rahman: ::softly:: No, I'm not, and I don't.

::Ms. Chandrasekaran nodded, her eyes, though dry, still heavy with sorrow.::

Chandrasekaran: Well, if you ever do, I hope you consider making them your first duty before your ship.

::This time, Roshanara decided to remain silent, and the three sat together with only the rustling leaves outside making their presence known. Eventually, the woman sighed and spoke again.::

Chandrasekaran: Sorry, I don't want you to think I don't appreciate what you've said. I know he was doing what he loved.

Rahman: No, you don't have to apologize at all.

::She didn't finish the rest of that statement. It was implicit.::

::The clock then chimed at the hour.::

Chandrasekaran: My children will be home soon from school. I would like to tell them in private if that's all right.

::Commander Schumacher stood up and Roshanara did the same.::

Schumacher: Certainly. I'll check in with you again, Ms. Chandrasekaran, as final arrangements are made. If there's anything you need or have questions about before then, just contact me or the personnel office at once.

::The woman nodded, and Roshanara turned to her before the commander turned off the holo-com.::

Rahman: Again, I'm so sorry for your loss.

::The woman didn't reply as the image dissipated, leaving Roshanara alone in the black room with yellow grid lines. A few minutes later, Schumacher's face appeared, this time as a flat projected image on the holodeck arch.::

Schumacher: That wasn't easy, commander. You did well. Still, it's pretty late for you, as I understand it. Lieutenant Zikiya told me this was just your first day. Don't feel like you need to stay with me for the rest.

Rahman: No, it's fine. It's the least I can do.

::She paused, looking away for a moment before turning back to the man's image.::

Rahman: Who's next?

---
Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman
Chief Engineer
USS Mercury





LtCmdr Rahman: Chills
23 Nov 2012

((BACKSIM: The night before the arrival at Starbase 118))

::Roshanara closed her eyes as she leaned her head back, letting him run his fingers through her hair. He brushed away the dark strands to expose her spots hiding underneath. With one hand, he gently pushed her head to the side, and with the other, he traced the pattern from her temple down to the back of her neck.::

::Though he didn't say anything, she could feel the passion emanating from his every move. She knew what he wanted. What he needed.::

oO Mate, kill, or die. Oo

::He reached in to kiss her neck, his breath sending chills across her skin. She smiled as she felt him pull back. When she opened her eyes to meet his, however, he was no longer there. Instead it was- ::

((End Dreamscape))

::She awoke with a start, her eyes wide open now, adjusting to the darkness of her quarters. Still breathing heavily, she took a moment to calm herself before getting up to get a glass of water.::

::She tried going back to sleep, but the dream had been too troubling. Finally, she left her quarters for a change of scenery.::

((Crew Lounge))

::When she entered, the lounge was deserted. Switching on the lights, she walked over to the replicator and ordered a bowl of fruit. It was then that she realized she'd miss taking her daily nutritional supplement given the stress and long hours of the past few days.::

::Since she was a child, Roshanara had had to take the medication to augment her growth. From what she knew about her species, Kriosians were actually known for being tall and slender. Clearly, her short stature reflected the lack of her development on a native Kriosian diet. Her adoptive parents had been advised about this possibility, and had tried their best to minimize the effect, both by preparing specific foods and giving her the nutritional supplement the agency had provided.::

::And yet, given her final height after she matured, her parents' efforts were not in vain, for it was astonishing to imagine just how small—and frail—she would have been without them.::

::As she continued to nibble on a few of her collected treats, she heard the hiss of the doors opening. She turned around to see the new arrival.::

Rahman: Good evening.

Bale: RESPONSE

::The man's voice sounded familiar. She tried to place it.::

Rahman: ...Lieutenant Bale, right?

::It wasn't difficult. His voice had been an integral part to one of the worst days of her life. It would be a long time before she'd forget the details of that horror.::

Bale: RESPONSE

Rahman: I didn't have a chance to thank you for sending help to engineering after the bombing.

Bale: RESPONSE

::She gave a restrained smiled.::

Rahman: Hmmmph. I guess, I can't be too mad at you anymore for what you did to the computer earlier with your little program.

Bale: RESPONSE

(OOC: Happy to backsim at any point.)

::Roshanara looked down for a moment, trying to come up with the best way to answer.::

Rahman: I was... having some trouble sleeping.

Bale: RESPONSE

Rahman: It's just been very stressful, I think. Everything that's happened.

Bale: RESPONSE

TAG!

Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman
Chief Engineer, USS Mercury




LtCmdr Rahman: Curious Contradictions
24 Nov 2012

((Frontier Lounge, USS Mercury))

Rahman: ...Lieutenant Bale, right?

Bale: ::nodding:: Right you are.

Rahman: I didn't have a chance to thank you for sending help to engineering after the bombing.

Bale: I'm sorry... you are?

::She gave a restrained smiled.::

Rahman: Hmmmph. I guess, I can't be too mad at you anymore for what you did to the computer earlier with your little program.

Bale: Ah.  ::tilting his head slightly as he considered her::  You would be our new Chief Engineer then... Lt. Commander Rahman, is it?

Rahman: Yes.

::He nodded and went to one of the replicators. She meanwhile popped another grape into her mouth as she turned back to look out at the stars drifting by.::

Bale: Might I trouble you to make sure the replicator in my quarters gets added to the no-doubt already extensive repair list?

Rahman: Item #5,001: Faulty replicator. You got it.

Bale: Thank you, Commander.

::She heard him order several protein bars before he continued.::

Bale: So... what brings you out in the middle of the night?

::Roshanara looked down for a moment, trying to come up with the best way to answer.::

Rahman: I was... having some trouble sleeping.

Bale: As was I.

::She looked up and saw that he was now carrying a small grin. No doubt the man could relate.::

Rahman: It's just been very stressful, I think. Everything that's happened.

Bale: I agree, we all...

::The lieutenant suddenly trailed off and after a moment he turned his head towards one of the lounge's walls. She was about to inquire what was the matter, but she winced as she felt a sudden wave of emotion pass over her.::

::It was a deep longing as before in her dream, so intense that it was painful. A literal heartache. When it subsided and she opened her eyes, she saw that she was alone again in the lounge.::

((Deck 27, Exobiology/Xenology Labs))

::The food had helped a bit, although the feelings that had troubled her earlier were still there, just muted now. She thought about visiting sickbay and maybe asking Del for some help, but thankfully, the pain was fading away, having become more of a dull headache.::

::Still, she didn't feel like returning to her quarters just yet. She doubted visiting the temporary morgue that West and the others had set up in the xenolab would help her sleep, but at least it would keep other distractions at bay. And truthfully, she had yet to pay her respects.::

::She entered the sterile facility and looked at the sixteen corpses that had been placed across several examination tables. They were covered now, so she didn't see any faces. Still, it was quite different from the usual reverent sight of flag-draped torpedo casings.::

::She slowly walked by each of them, reading the name tags as she went by: Sheros, Evans, Lefebvre, Uwo. She stopped at one in particular. MacNeil.::

::His widow Anisha Chandrasekaran had been the first she had talked to after the bombing. She had spoken with many of the others' relatives since that initial conversation.::

::Some had little to say. Others were more difficult to let go. She learned of how Crewman Kers had dreamt about serving in Starfleet since he first saw the Starfleet flight demonstration team as a child. Meanwhile, Ensign Evans had come from a distinguished line of officers that had served since the early days of the Earth Starfleet.::

::And yet, it still came back to Ms. Chandrasekaran and her haunting words.::

::"Are you married? Do you have children? Well, if you ever do, I hope you consider making them your first duty before your ship."::

::It was an accusation and yet also a plea. Roshanara sighed as she looked over MacNeil's body and then turned and looked back across her other fallen comrades. Just then, a shimmer of light announced the arrival of a familiar guest.::

Efili: Good evening, commander.

::She jumped back a bit at his sudden appearance, but not as much as she had when he first revealed his true nature in the computer core control room.::

Rahman: You, again…

::The holographic avatar tilted its head, as if trying to understand what she meant. Meanwhile, she added another item to her list. #5,002: Deal with intrusive, self-aware AIs. Perhaps the engineers at SB118 would be able to help.::

Rahman: I haven't seen you in a while, and there haven't been any more glitches... what have you been up to?

Efili: I have continued my observations, commander. It has been most enlightening.

Rahman: I see. And what have you learned?

Efili: You organics behave in such curious ways. Full of contradictions.

Rahman: Hmmmph. You make it sound as if we are all one and the same.

Efili: Perhaps I should not generalize.

Rahman: Perhaps.

::He moved towards her from across the lab, almost gliding along the way.::

Efili: Take your actions now. From what I gather, you mourn the death of these organics.

::She scoffed at him.::

Rahman: Of course.

Efili: And yet, a few days earlier, several organics were engaged in attempts to kill each other with little regard. Some, I believe were rather successful.

Rahman: Despite how you characterize us, we do have different goals, each of us as individuals. I don't know who you are referring to specifically, but the men here...

::She looked again back at the corpses.::

Rahman: ...they deserved better than this.

Efili: So would you say despite your individuality, a common goal of organics is the preservation of their existence? The avoidance of death?

::She turned back to him and thought over his questions.::

Rahman: I suppose. ::beat:: Yes, I think that would be a fair statement. Generally speaking, of course.

::The avatar tilted his head again.::

Efili: And what of you, commander? You place yourself in hazardous situations on such frequent basis through your profession. Yet, are you saying your ultimate goal is to avoid death?

Rahman: I don't know if I'd say that's the ultimate goal in my life. But it is quite vital in allowing me to accomplish other goals that are important to me.

::He paused for a moment.::

Efili: So you want to live?

::She rolled her eyes, growing frustrated at his pedantry.::

Rahman: Yes.

Efili: Then perhaps we are not so different after all.

::Before she could reply, his form shimmered away, leaving Roshanara alone once more.::

---
Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman
Chief Engineer, USS Mercury



LtCmdr Rahman: Get out of here! Shoo!
17 Dec 2012

(OOC: Farewell, Glenn! Best wishes on the Vigilant!)

((BACKSIM: Main Engineering, USS Mercury))

::After Lidia left, Roshanara made her way back up to engineering to begin preparations for the Mercury's departure. She was running a final systems check on the replacement plasma conduits when she heard a voice.::

Thomas: Excuse me, Commander.

::She turned around and looked up, her eyes lighting up when she saw the familiar face.::

Rahman: Ah, Mr. Thomas. Just in time. The plasma couplings need to be readjusted for the increased flow rate from the replacement conduits...

::Her voice trailed off as she noticed his sheepish expression.::

Rahman: ...what?

Thomas: Commander, I've been given transfers orders, to head to the USS Vigilant.

::She blinked.::

Rahman: You're leaving? ::beat:: Now?

Thomas: Yes, sir, I'm leaving the Mercury as soon as I leave Engineering.

::First Rawden left the department. Now Thomas was leaving the ship. After the carnage from the last mission, she didn't really blame them...::

::She looked away for a moment, trying to hide her disappointment, but a small frown still emerged. She bit her lip quickly to extinguish it and then glanced back up at the man.::

Rahman: The Vigilant, eh? I'm not familiar with it... though judging by the name, Defiant class?

::A warship--or rather "escort"--would certainly be different from a science vessel like the Mercury.::

Thomas: It's an Intrepid class sir, constructed in the Zeta Gelis region.

::Hmmm. That sounded far away.::

Rahman: ::nods:: And what do you intend to do there?

Thomas: Staying in Engineering.

Rahman: Then she'll be in good hands.

::She smiled, expecting an exchange of farewells, but the man brought out a PADD just then.::

Thomas: Commander, there is a list of things that I was working on I'd like to talk about.

::She furrowed her brow as he began reading.::

Thomas: The AI we transferred, needs her containment modified. She is unconsciously stressing the confines of her relocation.

Rahman: All right. I'll have Mr. Walker take a look-

Thomas: The starboard injector assembly needs to be realigned. I noticed a small deviation in it, and haven't had time to check it out yet.

::Roshanara bit her lip again, but for a different reason as Thomas continued.::

Thomas: Ensign Nova was running a diagnostic on the EPS relays in sickbay, she's a good officer but I'd check on the progress...

::The chief engineer gently grasped the top of the PADD, taking it away from him, and diverting his attention back to her. She raised an eyebrow while giving him a slight smirk.::

Rahman: ::softly:: I think we can handle it from here.

Thomas: Sorry sir, I didn't mean to imply you didn't know what was going on. I just like to be thorough, and I don't like to hand over things incomplete.

Rahaman: That's because you're a gentleman, but sometimes, Mr. Thomas, you think too much.

Thomas: ::allowing a smile:: You're right.

::There was a short moment of silence as the two stood there with silly grins on their faces. Finally, the man scratched his head.::

Thomas: I'd best get going, Commander. Thank you for everything.

Rahman: ::bows slightly:: It's been a pleasure having you aboard. I have no doubt I'll be reading about your exploits soon enough. Best wishes, lieutenant.

Thomas: You too. Oh, and I'd like to catch up with Efili when we next meet. You'll have to fill me in about her.

Rahman: ::nods:: I'll make sure you're kept in the loop. Now go. ::She waved him away with the PADD.:: This is a restricted area. No visitors.

::As the man turned around and walked away, Roshanara's gaze followed him. It was the second time she'd had to kick him out of engineering. She would miss doing it in the future.::

---
Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman
Chief Engineer, USS Mercury


LtCmdr Rahman: Festival of Sweets
Feb 9, 2013

((Lahore, Earth, 2364))

::Roshanara tried her best, but she couldn't hide the wide smirk as she watched her mother Najwa paint the decorative mehndi designs onto the hands of her older cousin Ayesha. The elder Rahman raised an eyebrow at her daughter.::

Najwa: What's so funny, Roshni?

::The seven-year old girl giggled as a few more spots of henna dye were applied to Ayesha's fingers.::

Rahman: Look, Ayesha, we're sisters now!

::The teenager returned a smile as her eyes remained focused on her hands.::

Ayesha: ::to Najwa:: I think she's just excited that everyone looks like her now, Masi.

Najwa: Ah... well perhaps my little comedienne would be good enough to go get a towel from the kitchen before we start on her next?

::Her mother glanced upward at Roshanara, her stern gaze being enough of an emphasis.::

Rahman: ::sighs:: *All right*...

::As she walked into the kitchen to retrieve the towel, she could smell the aromas of the various treats laid out on the counter. Some were set aside for tomorrow's breakfast, but the rest would be for the remainder of the eid. Out of all the yearly festivals, Eid al-Fitr was Roshanara's favorite, unashamedly because of the many sweets prepared to celebrate the end of the monthlong fast. In fact, maybe no one would mind if she just took a little preview sample of the-::

::Her mother's voice called from the other room.::

Najwa: Roshni, are you all right in there? What's taking so long?

::Drat.::

::Roshanara dropped the piece of Laddu and grabbed the towel before running back to her mother and cousin.::

Rahman: Sorry, I was... distracted.

::The other two exchanged amused glances before returning their attention to the slightly out of breath young girl.::

Ayesha: ::crosses her arms:: Mmmm-hmmm. Are those crumbs I see on your fingertips?

::The girl put her hands behind her back.::

Rahman: ...I don't think so.

Najwa: ::sighs:: All right, come here naughty.

::Roshanara sat on the stool, and her mother took a brush and began tracing it down the length of her arm, leaving behind a dark line of dye. The girl giggled again.::

Rahman: That tickles!

Najwa: If you don't hold still, you're going to be the only girl with lightening bolts on her arms.

::A few minutes later and with a bit more self-control, Roshanara smiled as she looked down at her hands. She extended her finger, causing the extra paste to crack and flake away.::

Ayesha: So what do you think?

Rahman: It's pretty...

::Roshanara raised her hand to her neck to show the contrast against her natural Kriosian spots.::

Rahman: But I still like my own better.

((Sickbay, USS Mercury, Present Day))

::When she opened her eyes, Roshanara was surprised to find herself in sickbay back on the Mercury. She hadn't remembered dozing off, but then again, she hadn't remembered boarding the shuttle from DSX either. Either way, somehow she was now back aboard safe and sound, lying on a biobed. She tilted her head towards some of the chatter going on around her.::

::Doctor Hawkeye and some other members of the away team were over by one of the biobeds where the poor marine who had been wrestling against Lt. Wulfantine's grip now lay. They were talking about something, but she couldn't quite make all of the words. Infectious? Infected?::

::On another biobed lay Ensign Richards, who looked to be in even worse shape than the marine from what little of his body she could see through the isolation apparatus placed over him.::

Medical Officer (Any takers?): RESPONSE

::The sudden question caught her off guard as she looked over to see a new face gazing down on her.::

Rahman: Pardon?

Med. Officer: RESPONSE

Rahman: I'm not sure...

::She raised her hand to her cheek, checking her scars. Only some flakes of dried blood came off onto her fingertips. She stared at them for a moment until the officer spoke up again.::

Med. Officer: RESPONSE

Rahman: I think I'm all right. No other bumps or bruises.

Med. Officer: RESPONSE

Rahman: Well, there is one thing.

Med. Officer: RESPONSE

Rahman: It's just that...

::She frowned and let out a sigh.::

Rahman: I really could use something for this damn headache I've been having. It started before I got to the station. Del... Dr. Del Vedova gave me something for it, but it didn't last that long. And then once things made a turn for the worse on the station, it really seemed to have come back with a vengeance.

Med. Officer: RESPONSE

TAG

Lt.Cmdr. Roshanara Rahman 
Chief Engineer, USS Mercury




LtCmdr Roshanara Rahman: Friends in Need
Feb 20, 2013

((Chief Engineer's Office, Main Engineering, USS Mercury))

::As the R&D engineer headed out of her office, Roshanara called out to him, although in a different tone: not as a department chief to her staff member but rather as one fellow engineer to another.::

Rahman: Mr. Walker, I understand you knew several of the SCE team members, including those who perished.

::He paused, but didn't turn back completely to her.::

Walker: I knew a few of them.

Rahman: I'm sorry we weren't able to get here earlier to help them.

Walker: You have nothing to be sorry for, it's a part of this job. And at the end, the best we can hope for is that it isn't one of us. At the end of the day we finish it the same way we start it, Alive...

Rahman: I suppose none of us who do this job long are strangers to tragedy and loss.

::She looked down at her console, but her focus was elsewhere, on a different place and time. She brought up the counseling sessions Counselor Avandar had suggested after the bombing last year, but she was more curious about the chief warrant officer's assessment about the department, and she wasn't talking about the engines or the technical systems.::

Walker: Honestly? I wouldn't know where to start. Nothing stands out to me as a pressing issue, and after the events of the last few days, I
think the next few weeks of simply going into a routine and getting the crew some rest will do wonders for the department.

::She shrugged with a half-smile.::

Rahman: If only I could make sure they actually do get that rest.

Walker: I plan to be part of it. You won't have order me away...

Rahman: Ah. That's good to hear. Already have something in mind for your leave?

Walker: The holodeck. Two programs of mine. One is a AI of an old Vulcan friend and the other is a simple cruise through the country side on
a hover bike. 150 kph skimming along 6 inches off the ground. Does wonders for the soul.

::She nodded. That did sound pretty refreshing, especially after the last mission spent in the claustrophobic confines of DSX.::

Rahman: All right, well I won't keep you any longer from it. As soon as we get wrapped up today, consider yourself on leave.

::The man raised his cup in appreciation, taking a sip before heading out, leaving the chief engineer to her systems reports and power readings.::

((That evening, Roshanara Rahman's Quarters, Deck 17))

::After her shift, she had found the perfect position of comfort: curled up in a blanket, reclining on the small sofa in her quarters as she caught up on a few articles from the latest issue of the Daystrom Institute Proceedings. The particular article she was reading now though was drier than the Thar Desert. She hadn't even gotten through the abstract when a call came in. She transferred it to her PADD and smiled when she saw the welcome distraction.::

Rahman: =/\= Well, hello, my dear. =/\=

Ivanova: ::raises her eyebrows in amusement:: =/\= Catch you at a bad time? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Actually, I was just about to read the most recent developments in advanced antiproton injection subsystems. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= So no. =/\=

Rahman: ::chuckles:: =/\= What do you want? =/\=

::Lt. Lidia Ivanova of the USS Montreal returned a look of mock hurt and offense to her former colleague from the Pioneer.::

Ivanova: =/\= Why do I have to want something? =/\=

::Roshanara rolled her eyes as Lidia continued.::

Ivanova: Can't I just call an old friend? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Old... =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Oh, you know what I mean... and speaking of old friends, have you heard about Eyas? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= If you mean Lt. Wulfantine's situation, yes. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= And? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= And what? =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Are you going to help him out? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= If by help out, you mean wish him the best, then yes. If you mean help him and some others get involved in the internal affairs of a sovereign power, then no. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= What?! I can't believe what I'm hearing. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Lidia, I don't know the lieutenant as well as you. It really isn't my place. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Roshanara Mackenzie Rahman! You should be ashamed of yourself. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= "Mackenzie?" Really? =/\=

((FLASHBACK: USS Pioneer's Officers' Lounge, 2387))

::Roshanara eyed the proposal on the PADD.::

Rahman: Mmmm, I don't know, Lidia... this seems a bit reckless.

Ivanova: ::shakes her head:: Roshanara Anna-Marie Rahman... and here I thought we were friends.

((FLASHBACK: The Blue Note, Deep Space 17, 2388))

Ivanova: Just introduce yourself. Come on!

Rahman: Oh, all right.

::The engineer made her way over to the two men sitting on the other end of the bar and flashed a smile.::

Rahman: Good evening, gentlemen.

Gentleman: Sorry, sir. This seat's taken.

Rahman: Oh...

::Roshanara sulked back to her friend, who just crossed her arms and shook her head.::

Ivanova: Tsk, tsk... Roshanara Kawasaki Rahman, that was the saddest thing I've seen since I saw that three-legged targ at Drozana Station.

Rahman: That was a sample platter...

::The man and his friend suddenly interjected. They both smiled broadly at the tall blonde security officer.::

Gentleman: Oh, sorry, I didn't realize you two were friends. Can we get you a couple of drinks?

::Lidia nodded and returned a cheery smile of her own.::

Ivanova: Actually, boys, why don't you both go to hell?

((END FLASHBACKS))

Rahman: =/\= "Mackenzie?" Really? =/\=

::Roshanara raised an eyebrow.::

Ivanova: =/\= Don't interrupt me. You're telling me you're going to just sit there and read about your dumb antiprotons while the mother of one of your shipmates dies in a mockery of justice? =/\=

Rahman: ::sighs:: =/\= You know it's not that simple... =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Yes, it is. And if I weren't so far away, I'd come over right now to your quarters and slap the $#@% out of you. =/\=

Rahman: ::narrows her gaze:: =/\= And you wonder why those pips take a while to show up on your collar... =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Look, Eyas is a really special friend to me, just as you are to me. ::She frowned.:: And you have no idea how much it hurts that I can't be there for him now in his time of need. Would you reconsider, if not for him, then for me? =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Lidia, we're not talking about just helping a friend out. There are serious moral and political issues here. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= And I'm not asking you to go to Pythro and start a civil war. I'd just like you to watch out for him. He's going to need an engineer... more than another security officer, really. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= Hmmmph... =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Please. =/\=

Rahman: =/\= ...I'll think about it. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Thanks. Don't think too long! =/\=

::Long after she had closed the channel and put the PADD down on the table, she still remained lying on her sofa, staring at the ceiling. The minutes ticked by, but the issues still remained.::

::She sympathized with Lieutenant Wulfantine. But what was the right response? If it were her parents who were being put to death... she couldn't imagine how far she'd go or what she'd do in that situation.::

::She thought of what the lieutenant had written in his message: "This is something I must do." Perhaps he'd find a way to free her through an appeal in the Pythron legal system. Perhaps he'd find another way to free his mother safely and discreetly. She stood up and got dressed.::

::Perhaps she'd help him find that way.::

TBC...

(OOC: You can just assume she finds her way onto the appropriate shuttle.)

Roshanara Hildegarde Rahman






LtJG Ayelet Kadosh: Cheeky Fellows
Mar 21, 2011

((Corridors of the USS Independence-A, First Night After the Ship Docks))

::The long night of revelry had taken its toll on Zeet and Ayelet. The Caitian walked a bit ungainly through the Independence, telling silly jokes as he carried the sleepy nurse to her quarters. Eventually, they arrived at their destination.::

Zeet: As promised, my lady!

Kadosh: ::yawns:: But I'm already so comfortable here.

::Zeet laughed. The Caitian set her down, not-quite-innocently giving her backside a light pat with one of his big paws as he did so. His tail lashed happily behind him, nose wiggling. ::

Zeet: So where's my goodnight kiss, mmm?

Kadosh: Well aren't you a cheeky fellow?

Zeet: RESPONSE

::Ayelet leaned forward and gave the marine a gentle peck on the nose.::

Kadosh: Now don't you get any ideas in that large head of yours...

Zeet: RESPONSE

Kadosh: All right. Well, *I* am going to bed. Good night, Sir Zeet!

Zeet: RESPONSE

::Ayelet hobbled through the doorway into her quarters, threw her uniform jacket on the floor, kicked off her pants, and then promptly collapsed onto the bed.::

((the following morning))

::The alarm buzzer pierced the tranquility of Ayelet's quarters. The nurse groaned as she lay under her covers. Shutting the alarm off, she went back to sleep.::

((a few hours later))

::A new sound disturbed Ayelet from her slumber, but when she told the computer to shut off the alarm, it ignored her because it wasn't her alarm making the noise but rather her door chime. Ayelet rubbed her eyes as she got up. She grabbed the blanket from the bed and wrapped it around her bare legs before dragging her feet to the door. When she opened it, she frowned.::

Kadosh: What do you want?

::Lieutenant Msafiri Bakari, Chief of Security for DS17, seemed to be taken back a bit at the sight of Ayelet's disheveled appearance.::

Bakari: I'm sorry; I didn't mean to wake you. I can come back another time.

Kadosh: Well, it's too late. You already woke me up, so what is it?

Bakari: I just... I just need to tell you something.

::Ayelet raised an eyebrow. Oh, this better be good.::

Bakari: First off, I want to apologize. I was completely out of line about what I said last night. I'm sorry.

::Hmmm, that was pretty good.::

Bakari: You know how much I care about you... how I never forget everything I owe you. I was just... I was stupid. I was being overly protective and taking things the wrong-

::The nurse brushed some of her messy hair behind her ears.::

Kadosh: Hey, this is interesting and all... but if you're going to keep going on, just come on in, so I can wash up and change while you give your speech.

::Msafiri waited until Ayelet gave a small and tired grin before he accepted her invitation and walked into her quarters, taking a seat on one of the chairs. Ayelet threw the blanket back on the bed and went into the bathroom to wash her face. As he waited, Msafiri looked around. He noticed her uniform jacket and pants on the floor. Both had a bit of what looked like cat hair collected on their surfaces.

From inside the bathroom, Ayelet called out.::

Kadosh: ::splashing her face with water:: So what changed your mind?

Bakari: I knew I was wrong when you left, but when I went after you, you were already gone. I figured you'd probably not want to see me for the rest of the night.

Kadosh: That was a good guess.

Bakari: ::gives a soft laugh:: Yeah... things were hardly calm though during the night. The Independence's security chief caused a bit of a stir. Do you know him?

::Ayelet walked out of the bathroom, wiping her face with a cloth.::

Kadosh: Not really. Lieutenant W'Tine, I believe.

Bakari: Yes, apparently he's been affected by something that transforms him into... something not quite his usual self. Captain Riley insisted that he be returned to the Independence's sickbay despite the incident happening on DS17, but I guess at least this means you'll probably see him for yourself.

::The nurse gave a sound of acknowledgment as she went through her wardrobe. Fortunately, she had the day off to recover from the previous night's festivities. After changing into a simple casual outfit, she sat down in the other chair next to Msafiri.::

Bakari: So how was the rest of your night?

Kadosh: Just glamorous if you couldn't tell.

Bakari: ::looks down:: Yes, well...

::The two comrades fell silent. Finally, Ayelet spoke up.::

Kadosh: Dammit, Msafiri, you really hurt me last night.

Bakari: I know. I'm sorry. You were always there for me during the roughest times. Like an older sister.

::Ayelet cleared her throat.::

Kadosh: You've made out with your sister?

Bakari: Well, no, but you know what I mean.

Kadosh: Yes, and you remind me of my brother sometimes. Brash and stupid. ::She paused before she turned to look at him.:: But also brave.

Bakari: ::looks up at her:: Can you forgive me?

Kadosh: It's my fatal flaw.

TAG!

Lieutenant JG Ayelet Kadosh
Nurse
USS Independence-A



Dr Zhou & Lt Bakari:
Aug 20, 2011

((Starfleet Veterans Hospital, Betazed))

::Doctor Tenzin Zhou was sitting in his office flipping through various PADD work. Well, to be honest, it was his joint office with Doctor Fii. Moving to Betazed had meant not only stepping down from a role as chief medical officer but also losing the perks that came with such a job such as having one's own office.

Outside, the vista looked like a painting, with clear blue skies and lush hills. Quite a difference from the black--and perhaps bleak--void of space, filled only with the faint specs of stars.

As Zhou scanned the various reports, Dr. Fii entered with a couple of beverages.::

Fii: One fresh cup of tea for me. One nasty mug of sugar water for you.

::Zhou shook his head and smiled as he took the cup from the other doctor.::

Zhou: Thanks...

Fii: Don't mention it.

::Fii sat in his chair, leaning back as he took a sip of his tea. After letting out a comfortable exhalation, he grabbed a PADD and began sifting through reports himself.::

Fii: Uh, oh. Looks like they still can't find anyone for your favorite patient, Radi Rais.

::Zhou frowned at the mention of the name. Radi Rais, the former Starfleet Marine and later Starfleet chief petty officer, had only just arrived on Betazed it seemed. He had suffered a mental breakdown on his previous assignment. Honestly, though, after the mental and physical trauma the man had seen in his short life, it was sadly not surprising. Sadder, still, though was when Zhou found out about the man's death only a few days later.

Rais was only 25. Even Crewman Veralise Jessop had been older than that when she had died, a loss that had caused Zhou much anguish earlier in his career.

Fii handed the PADD over to Zhou who examined the report more closely.::

Zhou: That's not too surprising considering how his family was from Ohmallera...

::The two doctors didn't need to add anything else about the formerly renowned city on Betazed that had been destroyed by the hijacked USS Constitution earlier in the year.::

Fii: Well, do you know anyone else who might know whom to inform?

Zhou: No... but, I might know someone who does.

((Security Office, DS17))

::Lieutenant Msafiri Bakari raised an eyebrow when he found out that he was getting a call from Starfleet Medical. From Betazed, no less. When the viewer switched on, the spotted doctor on the other end looked familiar.::

Bakari: Yes, this is DS17. Chief of Security, Lt. Bakari here.

Zhou: Lieutenant, good to see you again. I'm Doctor Zhou. We met when the Independence arrived after Operation Bright Star.

Bakari: Ah... yes... what can I do for you, doctor?

Zhou: Well, I'm currently stationed on Betazed, and we had a patient arrive who unfortunately died last month. His name was Rais. Radi Rais.

::Msafiri's face stayed grim.::

Bakari: Yes, I'm familiar with the name.

Zhou: I was wondering if you happened to know if we could contact anyone on his behalf?

::The security chief stayed quiet as he thought about it. The half-Trill/half-human doctor waited patiently and evidently in good spirits before the other man replied.::

Bakari: No, I don't.

Zhou: ...oh.

Bakari: I'm sorry I couldn't be more help for you, doctor.

Zhou: That's quite all right. I guess if we couldn't find anything, it was a long shot. Well, I guess... hmmm... maybe Ayelet Kadosh would know?

::Msafiri narrowed his eyes at the mention of his friend's name.::

Zhou: ...is she still on the Independence? I could give her a call and-

Bakari: That's quite all right, doctor. I can ask her for you. I think it'd be best as a conversation from one DS17 survivor to another.

::Zhou nodded slowly.::

Bakari: If she knows anything, I'll let you know.

::The doctor seemed satisfied with the answer and smiled.::

Zhou: Thank you, lieutenant. Please do.

::After the doctor closed the channel, Msafiri thought about Rais. The former marine was just one of hundreds of Starfleet Marines who had served throughout the years on DS17. But during the Vaadwaur occupation, the enemy had turned him against his fellow Starfleet brethren.

The Starfleet insurgency, led by Msafiri had started with 15. Their numbers grew slightly as they freed other Federation personnel, but by the end of the occupation, most of them had been killed, and if not by Rais directly, well then through the great assistance of Rais, who was able to use his "gift" of being a "telepathic black hole," undetectable to the insurgency's own Betazoid member, to sneak up and pick them off one by one.

And there was no doubt that the man had been responsible directly for Jennifer's death. It was only because of their loyalty to their friend's wishes that they had kept Rais's direct involvement with her death out of the official record.

The Vaadwaur occupation had taken so much. The last thing Jennifer's parents needed to know was that the Vaadwaur had killed their daughter using her own lover.::

Bakari: Computer, open a channel to-

::Msafiri paused as he remembered the date. Ayelet was probably still enjoying a birthday celebration or two with her new friends on the Independence.::

Bakari: Never mind.

::Whatever had happened to Rais in the end, the man was dead now, and he'd still be dead when the Independence completed their mission.

In the mean time, Msafiri would let his friend and fellow survivor of that hellacious time enjoy the little joys that were left in this universe.::


---

Lieutenant Tenzin Zhou
Medical Officer
Starfleet Division, Betazed

&

Lieutenant Msafiri Bakari
Chief of Security
Deep Space 17

Former PC and PNPC of Lt.Cmdr. Charles Sampi


LtCmdr Bakari: Open Invitation
Nov 16, 2011

((Security Office, Deep Space 17))

::Lt. Commander Msafiri Bakari, second officer and chief of security for DS17, was sitting in his office working on organizing temporary living arrangements for the crew of the late USS Independence-A when the call came in.::

Burkell: =/\= Sir, you have an incoming subspace call. =/\=

Bakari: =/\= Take a message, ensign. Command expects me to somehow find quarters for 175 people and give them proper security clearances by the end of the morning. =/\=

Burkell: =/\= But sir, it's from Earth. =/\=

::The security chief cocked his head.::

Bakari: =/\= Earth? Who is it? =/\=

Burkell: =/\= The Office of the President. =/\=

Bakari: =/\= And by President, I assume you mean... =/\=

::The woman replied quickly.::

Burkell: =/\= Yes, *the* President. =/\=

Bakari: =/\= Well, by all means... put it through. =/\=

::Msafiri turned in his chair to face the monitor behind him. The Federation seal was replaced by the image of a short and thin man.::

Bakari: =/\= You're not the President... =/\=

::The man on the other end of the line raised an eyebrow.::

Presidential Aid: =/\= How very astute of you, Mister... =/\=

Bakari: =/\= Commander Bakari. =/\=

Presidential Aid: =/\= Ah, just the man I was looking for. I'm Patrick Hayes, aid to the President. =/\=

::Bakari raised *his* eyebrow, wondering if Hayes had really expected him to recognize that. It was difficult to tell based on the aid's tone.::

Hayes: =/\= Anyway, it is my pleasure to inform you that your nominations have been approved. The President will be presenting the Medal of Honor to the families of Sergeant Brockton and Corporal James. As such, invitations to the ceremony are also extended to you and the other members of the... um... =/\=

Bakari: =/\= I believe the media decided "Federation resistance" sounded better than insurgency. =/\=

Hayes: =/\= Yes, well, I could use your assistance in informing the others. I haven't been able to locate two of them. =/\=

Bakari: =/\= I'll do my best... =/\=

::The presidential aid looked down at a PADD on his desk and tapped some buttons on it.::

Hayes: =/\= All right, so do you happen to know the whereabouts of Sergeant Resiv? =/\=

::Msafiri scratched his chin.::

Bakari: =/\= Last I heard, he went off on a personal expedition on Andor. =/\=

::Hayes looked the disappointed. That answer evidently wasn't what he had been hoping for.::

Hayes: =/\= Yes, well he's not there any more... =/\=

Bakari: =/\= I'm afraid I can't help you then. =/\=

Hayes: =/\= That's fine... how about Lieutenant Kadosh? I haven't been able to get word back from the Independence. =/\=

Bakari: =/\= That's because it blew up. =/\=

::The man's eyes bulged.::

Hayes: =/\= What? Excuse me? =/\=

Bakari: =/\= Yes, lost due to self-destruct. Don't worry, most of the crew is safe and sound here on DS17, including Lieutenant Kadosh. She's currently recovering in the medical bay. I'll make sure she gets the invitation. =/\=

Hayes: =/\= Excellent. =/\=

::The man pressed another button on his PADD and then putt it away in a drawer before looking back up at Msafiri.::

Hayes: =/\= Well, thank you for your help, commander. The President looks forward to meeting you in Paris and thanking you for your service. You all are heroes of the Federation. =/\=

::Msafiri just returned a deadpan expression.::

Bakari: =/\= Thank you, Mister Hayes. That means a lot. =/\=

::After the channel closed, Msafiri sat staring at the blank screen and then shook his head with a small smile. First the resistance members were hunted down by Vaadwaur soldiers and a psychotic Betazoid. Then they had to deal with the aftermath and their personal turmoils from that experience. Now, they would soon be shaking hands and listening to blathering politicians and journalists while wearing stuffy dress uniforms. Out of such depths of hell were heroes truly forged.::

TBC...

Lt.Cmdr. Msafiri Bakari
Second Officer & Chief of Security
Deep Space 17



LtCmdr Msafiri Bakari: Reinvention
Apr 29, 2013

((Msafiri Bakari's Quarters, Deep Space 17))

Kadosh: Wait. Let me get this right: "Msafiri Bakari, P.I."?

::The man looked down at his friend's image on the PADD and shook his head.::

Bakari: Not private. I'll still be working for Starfleet Security, just in a different division: Criminal Investigations.

::The nurse nodded, but her eyes still looked a bit skeptical.::

Kadosh: I didn't even know we had those.

Bakari: Well, what can I say? I like to think I've helped keep this place clean the past five years.

Kadosh: Certainly...

::Ayelet Kadosh paused for a moment and then smiled broadly.::

Kadosh: I'm proud of you. It always seems you've gotten another pip or title every time you call me.

Bakari: Thanks.

Kadosh: Not to mention, a new girlfriend I assume.

Bakari: Hmmmph. No girlfriends.

Kadosh: Ah. So just friendly visitors passing through?

Bakari: Ahem. And are you and that fur ball still an item?

Kadosh: I always figured you for the jealous type. ::chuckles:: That "fur ball" has a name, mister. And yes, I still love him.

::Her use of that word caught him off guard a bit. Yes, he was happy that Ayelet had found happiness with that goofy Caitian marine, but then, it only reminded Msafiri how he missed her, even as just a good friend.::

::It'd been nearly three years since he and Ayelet had... grown close to one another. Three years since they decided that probably wasn't the best route for them, either. Blame it on a complicated mess of emotions. Having to survive an occupation together tends to do that though, he supposed.::

::In the summer of 2387, a race of warriors from the Delta Quadrant had invaded Federation territory and defeated Starfleet's forces to capture Deep Space 17. Hundreds were left behind on the massive station long after Starfleet's retreat. Most were soon subjected to a twisted form of mind control concocted by the Vaadwaur leadership. A lucky few escaped to form a resistance, led by Msafiri, but it was a losing battle. Of Msafiri's original twelve team members, only three others survived, and though they were able to free eight other prisoners, they'd lose three more before Starfleet was able to liberate the station through Operation Bright Star.::

::But that was a different time. Msafiri had only been a lieutenant junior grade when he became DS17's highest ranking survivor. Since then, Ayelet transferred to the Independence before resigning from Starfleet entirely a year later. He meanwhile went on to serve as DS17's chief of security and then second officer, wanting to stay away from command as much as possible, having felt betrayed by those in red.::

::Thus, when the time came for Msafiri to reinvent himself, it was only natural that he decided to shun moving further up the chain and look instead back at his beloved security to find another avenue for him. Being a station security chief often called upon developing his investigative skills, and Msafiri soon discovered that he enjoyed the challenge. He enrolled in additional training to transfer into Starfleet Security's Criminal Investigations Division. After a year of book work, it was time for him to gain some field experience away from DS17.::

::Which brought him to today.::

Kadosh: So tell me then... why does a science ship need a criminal investigator?

Bakari: Forensic *science*... heard of it?

::She laughed while still rolling her eyes at him.::

Kadosh: Yes, but I know you, Msafiri. You are not going to be happy stuck in some lab. ::Her eyes narrowed at him from the screen.:: You like to get...

::She raised an eyebrow.::

Kadosh: ...personal.

Bakari: Well, the field experience just needs to be on a starship of a certain size, and the Oracle class qualifies. Plus, the Mercury's attached to DSX, so there should be enough opportunities right there.

Kadosh: Ah... from one deep space station to the next.

::He smiled. He had saved the best for last.::

Bakari: ...and Douglas is on the Mercury.

::He saw Ayelet's eyes instantly react, barely able to contain her excitement.::

Kadosh: Sian's there?! And you didn't tell me?

Bakari: Hmmmph, now who's jealous?

Kadosh: I hadn't realized she'd finished her leave. I was meaning to see her before she left Earth, but work's been so busy.

Bakari: Well, you could always re-sign and get back your commission...

::What a strange contronym -- resign -- Bakari thought..::

Kadosh: Ha. No, thank you. I think I've seen enough of the wonders of the universe -- both this one and the Mirror -- to last a lifetime.

Bakari: Yeah, I didn't think you'd be up for it, but it was worth a shot.

Kadosh: Well, tell her I say hi and to keep an eye on you to keep you out of trouble.

Bakari: Will do, Mother.

::Ayelet crossed her arms, looking rather unamused.::

Kadosh: Ahem.

Bakari: Okay. ::beat:: We should do this again sometime. Let me know when you're free in the next month or so.

Kadosh: Will do, ungrateful bastard.

Bakari: ::chuckles:: I'll talk to you later, Ayelet.

Kadosh: Likewise. Stay safe!

::Long after Msafiri was aboard the transport and DS17 had diminished in the distance, he was still thinking about the memories he had shared with Ayelet and the others during the five years he had lived aboard the station. It was the right time for him to move on. The pain had to be left in the past, and the renovated DS17 was ready to be the home for a new set of strangers to become friends.::

::Maybe now was the right time for Msafiri to look around and find someone special for himself -- someone he could really see himself settling down with.::

::A pretty blonde just then interrupted his thoughts as she flashed him a smile. He returned one in kind.::

::Maybe that time could wait another few days.::

TBC...

Lt.Cmdr. Msafiri Bakari
Criminal Investigator, Reassigned and en route to USS Mercury
http://wiki.starbase118.net/wiki/index.php?title=Bakari,_Msafiri

&

Ayelet Kadosh
Civilian Nurse, Earth
http://wiki.starbase118.net/wiki/index.php?title=Kadosh,_Ayelet

&

(very briefly)
Lt. Lidia Ivanova
Security Officer, Reassigned and en route to USS Mercury
http://wiki.starbase118.net/wiki/index.php?title=Ivanova,_Lidia


Lt.Cmdr. Zhou Tai-Sheng: Wingman
Jun 15, 2012

((OOC: Tracey and I are working on a JP to wrap up Dr. Sampi's voyage aboard the Tiger. In the mean time, here's the introduction to my new PC. Looking forward to see who greets him at the door.))

IC:
((Runabout USS Euphrates))

Maravosh: It's not going to work.

::Lt. Commander Zhou Tai-Sheng ignored the Risian's words as he concentrated on carefully placing the next game piece down. At the last moment, he altered his hand movement to place the piece 3 cm to the left of the other pieces.::

Maravosh: Nope... that's not going to work either.

::Zhou hushed his companion.::

Zhou: Hey... no taunting.

::Lt. Maravosh raised one of her eyebrows in amusement.::

Maravosh: Not really a taunt. Just an observation.

Zhou: All right. Well, your turn.

::Studying the game board for a moment, the runabout pilot scratched her forehead, brushing a few strands down in front of her face before she blew them away with a quick breath. With an equally swift motion, she moved her center piece diagonally to the northeast corner.::

Maravosh: Ikara!

::Zhou just stared for a moment at the piece and then shook his head in disbelief. The Risian smiled.::

Maravosh: "All that is yours is mine."

::The security officer looked up at the pilot unamused.::

Zhou: I don't think that's how that saying is supposed to go.

Maravosh: ::still smiling:: Okay, can we play something else now? Please!

::She elongated the last word for effect.::

Zhou: I thought you'd enjoy playing this game.

Maravosh: I did. Five times in fact.

Zhou: This is actually our seventh game.

Maravosh: Exactly.

::Zhou sighed and then chuckled.::

Zhou: Okay, okay! It's not an order or anything to have fun while we wait.

::Maravosh rolled her eyes with a smirk.::

Maravosh: Hey, you're the one who decided to request assignment to a ship off in the hinterland...

Zhou: I just need to get back on to a ship. It's been too long. I was getting restless.

::It had been a while since Zhou had been posted to a starship. Two and a half years in fact. After graduating from the Academy in 2376, Zhou had spent the first five years of his career as an HCO officer initially involved in Starfleet's post-Dominion War relief efforts before beginning regular duty aboard the USS Cherokee. By 2387, he had switched posts to security and was serving aboard the Tempest. Captain T'Vara-Lahn had been impressed enough with his service to recommend him to the Advanced Tactical Training course at the Academy, but Zhou hadn't anticipated his assignment afterwards to Starbase 301, his home for the past two years now.::

::Lt. Maravosh let out a mock expression of hurt.::

Maravosh: And here I thought we had something special.

::The security officer shook his head.::

Zhou: Oh, come on, you know what I meant.

Maravosh: I'm just saying... I thought you'd appreciate that I requested time off to personally deliver you to the... what's it called again? Panther? Cougar?

Zhou: ::gives a straight face:: Tiger.

::Zhou paused for a moment, trying to come up with the right words.::

Zhou: And of course I appreciate it... I do. Thank you. ...and um... I, uh... I'll miss you?

::He hadn't meant that last part to come off as a question, but it was too late. Maravosh tried to stifle a laugh. She was unsuccessful. Then again, she hadn't tried really hard.::

Maravosh: Oh, Zhou... I'm going to miss you, too.

::Zhou took a breath and sat back in his chair to relax for the remaining few minutes of the journey.::

::Today was finally the return to the beginning. It hadn't seemed to long ago that he and his cousin Dr. Tenzin Zhou were just chatting over subspace. Maybe only a month or so ago. Tenzin and his wife Yasmin had just had their first child, a girl named Zahra. And it was then that Zhou knew he couldn't just wait around any longer if he wanted a change. Having served previously under Flt. Captain Riley, Tenzin suggested the Tiger.::

::And there she was. Zhou leaned forward a bit to look more closely as Maravosh brought the runabout around the ship.::

Maravosh: =/\= Runabout Euphrates to USS Tiger. Requesting clearance for docking. =/\=

::A young woman's voice came through the com.::

Vistain: =/\= Euphrates, this is Tiger Shuttlebay Ops. Approach along vector four. Confirm. =/\=

Maravosh: =/\= Vector four confirmed. =/\=

::Once the runabout had landed in the shuttlebay, Zhou and Maravosh stepped out. Ensign Danielle Vistain and several officers were waiting for them.::

Maravosh: ::to the group:: All right, who's coming aboard the ferry?

::Two men in medical blue stepped forward, a Zakdorn and a human.::

Sampi: That would be us. Doctors Sampi and-

Mol: Doctor Mol. Grishols Mol.

::The elderly Zakdorn smiled as he took Maravosh's hand in his own and kissed it before stepping back. She exchanged a glance with Zhou.::

Maravosh: ...all right. ::under her breath:: That was inappropriate... and weird.

::She cleared her throat.::

Maravosh: Ahem, gentlemen. Feel free to step aboard and make yourselves comfortable. I just need to restock a few supplies before we leave.

Mol: ::smiles:: Of course, my dear.

::Once the two doctors were aboard, Vistain turned to Maravosh.::

Vistain: So what do you need?

Maravosh: ::lost in thought:: What? Oh, nothing. I just wanted to delay the week long journey with "Dr. Strange Love" over there.

::The engineer couldn't hide a smirk before she nodded and left just Zhou and Maravosh by the runabout. The pilot looked up and around the shuttlebay for a moment.::

Maravosh: Well, have fun out here...

Zhou: Thanks. I'll, uh... call you sometime.

Maravosh: Uh-huh...

::The woman took a final look over her colleague, and then seemed to notice something. She put her hand up to his collar and adjusted his pips, realigning them in a straight line.::

Maravosh: Try not to break too many hearts out here, okay?

Zhou: All right. Anything else?

::Maravosh glanced over at Ensign Vistain, who had turned away from them to work on a nearby shuttle's nacelle.::

Maravosh: You could pass on a good word about me to that ensign when you get the chance. She's cute.

Zhou: ::shaking his head:: Talk about breaking hearts...

Maravosh: Hey, every pilot needs a wingman. ::She pressed a finger to his chest.:: I expect mine to still be looking out for me, even out here.

Zhou: ::smiles:: ...always.

::The two embraced in a hug, and Maravosh kissed him on the cheek before she reboarded the runabout. Zhou watched as the Euphrates rose off the deck and headed back out into space.::

::He took a deep breath and headed towards the door, where he found someone waiting for him.::

Anyone: RESPONSE

Zhou: Hello, I'm Lieutenant Commander Zhou Tai-Sheng.

Anyone: RESPONSE

Zhou: A pleasure to meet you. I'm the new chief of security.

Anyone: RESPONSE

Zhou: What's the situation aboard the Tiger?

Anyone: RESPONSE

TAG!

Lt. Cmdr. Zhou Tai-Sheng
Chief of Security
USS Tiger-A


Lt.Cmdr. Zhou Tai-Sheng: Dim Prospects
Jun 28, 2012

((Tiger's Den, USS Tiger-A))

Kerberos: I bet 12. ::He threw all but one chip in.::

McFarland: Wow... isn't that a lot to bet on the first bet?

Kerberos: Oh, what the hell! :: He threw in in his last chip.:: All in then... What's the worst that could happen, it's a dummy run, right?

McFarland: You could lose that's the worst that could happen. No the worst that could happen is all of us dying, that's the worst.

Zhou: Hmmm, he could have a really great hand, crewman... ::The security chief then smiled at his assistant chief.:: Or a great bluff.

Kerberos: RESPONSE

T'Mihn: Dummy run? :: She selected a couple of chips and tossed those in to the pile.::

Zhou: I'm afraid, lieutenant, that dummy run or no dummy run, all in means all in.

::Just then, though, the Chef showed up with some good old fashioned "poker food."::

T'Mihn: What is that red food? And this? ::points:: Those. ::points::

::The security crewman smiled.::

McFarland: That's salsa, and that's hummus, and that's peanuts, really tasty! Try one. You have to crack open the shell first.

::With a gentle squeeze, the Vulcan popped open the shell, shooting the peanut to the Den's ceiling and back down to the plate.::

T'Mihn: ::She arched an eyebrow. :: Ammunition or food?

McFarland: HAHAHAHAHAHAHA.

Zhou: Wow, I think we're playing the wrong game. Ever play quarters, T'Mihn?

Anyone: RESPONSE

::The game continued but not for long, being interrupted by the antics of a pesky creature.::

Ahyel: Merow!

::It promptly jumped off the table, causing it to jiggle a little.::

Anyone: RESPONSE

McFarland: What was that about T'Mihn?

T'Mihn: I don't know what that was all about. Maybe she thinks I should've eaten the lizard.

::The crewman laughed nervously. ::

T'Mihn: I'm a vegetarian normally, survival needs in a harsh environment. Yes I'll eat one.

::Townson then chimed in helpfully.::

Townson: Lieutenant...where is your shirt?!

::Zhou gave the operations chief a wide grin and then looked back at the Vulcan. The other Lt. Commander also seemed in on the prank.::

Firestarter: ::Looking away.:: It could not have gone far....

T'Mihn: :: Dead pan.:: The shirt isn't my bet. :: She bent down to look under the table.::

McFarland: Are you going to be okay?

T'Mihn: I'll heal up quickly.

Anyone: RESPONSE

T'Mihn: Too late on the `bet retraction'?

::She gave them all a long look, but Zhou kept a straight face. He liked the Vulcan; she had spunk. Still, he wasn't about to ruin a good prank when he saw one.::

Anyone: RESPONSE

Firestarter: ::Throwing the cards forward.:: Much too late. ::She smiled.:: Do we need to pause the game?

T'Mihn: No problem, it has a highjack chip, I'll find it again. ::Raising an eyebrow again, she gave a shoulder shrug, reaching behind her she donned her spare shirt. ::

::At that, Zhou laughed out loud.::

Zhou: So you did come prepared!

::The security chief turned to Crewman McFarland, who looked stunned. Townson, though seemingly a cool tempered woman, also seemed a bit surprised.::

Townson: You brought a second shirt, Lieutenant?

T'Mihn: ::Putting another chip in the pile.:: When you've brothers who are pranksters, everything needs locator chips.

Townson: I see.

Anyone: RESPONSE

McFarland: Back to the game I suppose?

Anyone: RESPONSE

Townson: Perhaps it would be a good idea for you to go to sickbay, Lieutenant.

T'Mihn: :: Nodding:: Might have a point.

Firestarter: ::Looking to the officer.:: The Commander is probably correct, if only to clean up the blood. ::Beat.:: Some of the crew may become nauseous at the sight.

Anyone: RESPONSE

Townson: Just a suggestion, Lieutenant.

T'Mihn: Then I'll be right back.

::The Vulcan excused herself, and the game continued.::

Zhou: oO A shame she had to go so quickly... there might have been a few more good pranks for the night... hmmmm, maybe I should get these security guys to try another one on one of the other Lt. Commanders... Oo

Anyone: RESPONSE

::After another round of cards dealt with nothing for Zhou to gain, he sighed inwardly. Meanwhile, it seemed Commander Firestarter was having better luck.::

Firestarter: I am all in.

Zhou: oO Damn it... Oo I suppose it *is* a good thing we aren't really playing for shirts... I'm pretty sure I'd be down to my shoelaces at this point.

Anyone: RESPONSE

::T'Mihn then reappeared, much to Zhou's surprise.::

Zhou: ::looks up:: That was quick!

::She sat down and looked at her cards.::

T'Mihn: ::Showing her cards.:: Two 6s, and 8s, what does that do?

Zhou: T'Mihn! You're not supposed to show us your cards yet! ::laughs:: And that's not bad... so I fold.

Anyone: RESPONSE

Zhou: What can I say? ::He looked down at his mediocre pile of chips.:: It's not been my night...

::He then grinned.::

Zhou: Not to say that this hasn't been a memorable way to get to know you all, of course...

Anyone: RESPONSE

TAG! TBC...

Lt. Cmdr. Zhou Tai-Sheng
Chief of Security
USS Tiger-A


Lt.Cmdr. Zhou: Spitfire
Jul 22, 2012

((Shuttlebay, USS Tiger-A))

Zhou: My name is Lt. Commander Zhou Tai-Sheng and this is Doctor Estrane.

Estrane: A pleasure.

::The doctor put her hands together and bowed slightly.::

Zhou: Are you all right?

Adrura: Yes... I am just peachy now.

Zhou: Don't worry, just relax. ::He knelt down beside her while Doctor Estrane began assessing her patient.:: Do you know how you got here?

Adura: ::Looking directly into Zhou's eyes.:: I know exactly how I got here Starfleet, and I am also well aware that it was highly illegal and dangerous.

::Zhou raised an eyebrow, confused at the woman's hostility.::

Zhou: I'm not a police officer. We're only trying to help you now.

::The woman looked at Zhou and then the doctor with a broad smile.::

Adrura: I suggest you duck...

::Before Zhou could stop her, the previously frail-looking woman jumped up past the security chief. Zhou heard a hiss from the shuttle before an explosion blasted him back. He covered his face but couldn't prevent his arms from being burnt by the flames. He groaned in agony.::

Estrane: Who is injured and needs emergency medical treatment?

::Zhou let out another groan, and the doctor quickly ran over to check on him.::

Th&ndy: RESPONSE

::Meanwhile, Lt. Ivanova and the other two ensigns had remained out of range from the blast, but while Vistain and Th&ndy rushed over to contain the blaze, Ivanova quickly turned to see the stowaway making her escape.::

::Lidia quickly yelled to the computer.::

Ivanova: Computer, security lockdown, Ivanova-delta-5!

::The large bay doors that had begun opening immediately slammed shut and a forcefield engaged. The escapee pounded on the doors with her fists futily.::

Adrura: ::Tears streaming down her face.:: No...!

::The sound of a phaser charging up could be heard behind her, and when she turned around, she saw Lidia staring back at her with the Type II pistol pointed dead set on her.::

Ivanova: Save the waterworks, sweetheart. I'm only going to tell you this once: back away from the doors.

::The woman didn't answer. Lidia fired her phaser past the woman, hitting the forcefield and causing it to crackle.::

Ivanova: I don't really care if you're conscious or not when I drag you to the brig. It's up to you.

::The woman slowly began moving back towards the center of the shuttlebay with Lidia keeping her phaser locked on her.::

Ivanova: Sit down over there.

::Again the woman didn't answer.::

Ivanova: I said sit!

::When she did so, the security officer called over to the doctor.::

Ivanova: How's Commander Zhou?

Estrane: RESPONSE

Atimen: =/\= Bridge to Shuttlebay, report! =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Bridge, this is Lt. Ivanova. There's been an explosion. We had a stowaway on one of the shuttles, and she somehow managed to turn one into a bomb. Commander Zhou has been injured, but Doctor Estrane is tending to his injuries. =/\=

Atimen: =/\= RESPONSE =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= I think we'll be okay, sir. The stowaway has been secured. She'll be in the brig soon enough. =/\=

Atimen: =/\= RESPONSE =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Understood. =/\=

::After acknowledging her orders, Lidia heard Ensign Vistain approach her.::

Vistain: Lieutenant, I found this by the wreckage.

::She handed over a satchel to Lidia. The woman sitting down hissed at the officers.::

Adrura: That is nothing important... In fact you should give it back before you hurt yourself.

Ivanova: ::annoyed:: Quiet!

Adrura: RESPONSE

Estrane: But why all this damage? Was it really necessary to put yourself and others in danger like this?

::The stowaway's voice then went softer.::

Adrura: I saw an opportunity and I took it. This whole matter is none of your concern, especially Starfleet's.

Zhou: ::groans as he sits up:: Who are you?

Adrura: ::Gritting her teeth.:: Colette Adrura if you must know. Just keep in mind you have brought a lot of danger onto this ship by keeping me here. ::She spat on the floor.:: Despicable.

Estrane: Despicable or not, your leg needs to be treated. ::She turned to Zhou.:: I can also sedate her if you feel it is necessary.

Ivanova: ::still holding her phaser aimed at Adrura:: Don't worry about that, doc. I can take care of that.

::Zhou gave a stern look at the other security officer.::

Zhou: Lieutenant. ::He turned to Estrane.:: I don't think we'll need that just yet, doctor, but thank you for the offer. Go ahead and attend to her injuries.

::Nodding, the doctor went over and began treating the woman's injuries. She still remained defiant.::

Adrura: RESPONSE

Zhou: Why have you come here?

Adrura: RESPONSE

Anyone: RESPONSE

TAG!

Lt. Cmdr. Zhou Tai-Sheng
Chief of Security
USS Tiger-A


Lt.Cmdr. Zhou: New Orders
Sep 10, 2012

((Arctic Compound, 1940s Earth))

Soviet Officer: American scientists, you are surrounded! Surrender now, and you will not be killed. ::laughs:: We are, after all, your allies, are we not?

::There was the sound of laughter from additional voices. Clearly, the away team was outnumbered now.::

Zinna: Goddess, this is outrageous!

Anyone: RESPONSE

Soviet Officer: You have thirty seconds to make your decisions American scientist or you will be killed without second thoughts.

Zinna: Commander?

Townson: RESPONSE

Zhou: ::whispers:: Get your weapons ready!

::Zinna took out her modified weapon and looked down at it, but without warning, the Soviet officer grabbed her by her long hair and pulled her closer to him. Zhou cursed under his breath as he and the others watched helplessly while still remaining hidden and crouched down behind the other vehicles and crates.::

Soviet Officer: So, you like to load pistol to shoot us, eh?

::He raised the gun at Zinna's temple and another officer took her pistol away. Zhou needed to think of something quick. What they needed was a distraction... but how to distract not just one but a whole group of Soviet soldiers? Then, an idea struck Zhou just as the Soviet officer called out.::

Soviet Officer: You're thirty seconds are up American scientists, surrender or she's the first to go.

::Zhou looked at Townson and Adrura before slowly standing up. He knew he had to do something.::

Zhou: All right! Don't shoot!

::The security chief stepped out into the open with his arms up, one still holding his weapon, though it was aimed towards the sky.::

Soviet Officer: That's far enough. Drop your weapon!

::Zhou slowly put it down and then put his arms back up.::

Zhou: Let her go, comrade. This is all a misunderstanding. As you said, we are your allies, and we are working under orders not just from our own government but yours as well.

::The Soviet officer laughed again.::

Soviet Officer: Is that right?

Zhou: Yes. We are part of a secret division working with your government. Obviously you must have been misinformed in your original debriefing for this mission. If you don't stop this foolish grandstanding, you'll put the whole mission in jeopardy, and I assure you, you'll be the one who will be sorry.

::The grin on the other man's face told Zhou he'd need to play his cards for this to work.::

Zhou: I can prove it.

::The Soviet officer's smug smile dropped away.::

Soviet Officer: Show me.

Zhou: This whole mission is being monitored right now by both of our governments.

::With his palms still raised outward, Zhou carefully opened his coat and gestured towards the Starfleet combadge attached on the inside.::

Zhou: Our team was given a special radio that has been transmitting everything so far. I suggest you talk to your Soviet superiors through it.

::The Soviet officer frowned and gestured for one of his men to grab the combadge. The other soldier looked at it, perplexed.::

Zhou: Ahem, if you would just tap it once please.

::When the combadge chirped, the soldier leaned back at the sound.::

Zhou: ::clears throat:: =/\= Zhou to Ivanova. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Ivanova here. =/\=

Zhou: =/\= Sorry to bother you, commissar, but I trust you know what's been going on here, yes? =/\=

::There was a slight pause.::

Zhou: oO Come on, lieutenant. Work with me here... Oo

Ivanova: =/\= ...yes. Ahem. What's the problem, Dr. Zhou? =/\=

Zhou: oO You just earned your pips, Ivanova. Oo =/\= It seems not all of your officers were informed about the nature of our mission and the agreement. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= What? Let me speak with this officer. =/\=

::The solider, still looking at the combadge with wide eyes brought the device to the officer who leaned down to talk into it.::

Soviet Officer: =/\= This is Captain Andrey Pozdnyakov. Who is this? =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= ::in Russian:: How dare you address me in English! This is the political commissar attached to this mission, being watched by none other than General Vasilevsky himself. Do you understand that, captain? =/\=

::The Soviet officer frowned and answered in Russian.::

Soviet Officer: =/\= How do I know this is really- =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Captain Pozdnyakov. Born 14 April 1910. Father: Roman. Mother: Marina. Tell me, captain, how were your parents when you last saw them? =/\=

Soviet Officer: =/\= ...they were fine. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Well they won't be fine and neither will you if you continue to screw up! Now, this is the last time I will be so "understanding" with you. Have I made myself clear, captain? =/\=

Soviet Officer: =/\= Yes. =/\=

Ivanova: =/\= Good. Now, you are to stand aside immediately. This mission is vital to the war effort, and the Nazis cannot get their hands on what is contained here. Your men are to secure a perimeter around the compound to guard the scientists while they do their work. Wait for further instructions once Dr. Zhou or one of his colleagues return. Acknowledge. =/\=

::The Soviet officer seemed at a lost for words.::

Ivanova: =/\= Captain Pozdnyakov, you may not appreciate how much your life is in jeopardy right now, but I'm sure your wife Tatiana feels differently! Acknowledge! =/\=

Soviet Officer: =/\= Yes! I acknowledge! We will form the perimeter at once. =/\=

::Once Zhou heard Ivanova say, "Dosvedanya," he knew they were in the clear. The Soviet officer released Zinna and walked to Zhou.::

Soviet Officer: My apologies, Dr. Zhou. My men will secure the perimeter. Please let me know if you need anything.

Zhou: Thank you, captain. ::He turned back towards Townson and the others.:: Come on, ladies, let's go!

::And with that, the away team continued on into the compound where they finally met up with Clack and the others.::

Clack's Team: RESPONSE

Townson's Team: RESPONSE

TAG!

((OOC: Sorry for the haste. I was asked to resolve this plot development so that the mission can come to its conclusion.))

Lt. Cmdr. Zhou Tai-Sheng
Chief of Security
USS Tiger-A


Ens. Zhou: Calls from friends, old and new
Jun 16, 2010

((USS Independence-A Conference Room))

::Zhou listened to all of the briefing thus far, but truthfully, he was
still thinking about his new companion, Dr. Shalls, and his recent departure
to a new position on the ship.::

Zhou: oO Well, there goes my tour of sickbay... Oo

::The captain's voice brought Zhou back to the meeting at hand.::

Riley: I want to know about any physical or psychological effects or dangers
we might be facing with the Orb being on board.

Solok: I can examine the data collected in Science's analysis of the device,
as well as the eyewitness reports from the Laryn Colony and whatever
Lieutenant Breeman recorded of his ... experience. Perhaps medical scans of
those officers and crewmembers who have come into contact with the orb is
also warranted.

::There was a slight pause, and that was when Zhou noticed the first officer
nodding towards him and Shalls. Zhou quickly took the hint.::

Zhou: I can begin making preparations for the necessary equipment and
support medical team, captain.

Shalls: I will have to get with Solok, and an Engineer to determine that,
Captain.

::Zhou made another glance towards Ehlanii, who now was focusing on Shalls
before the captain called her attention.::

Riley: Commander Ehlanii, I'd like you to work with the science team.

Ehlanii: ::nodding:: Aye, Sir.

::And the meeting continued...::

Zhou: oO Well, hopefully you didn't sound too stupid, Tenzin... Oo

::Once the meeting had finished, Zhou made his way to the corridor outside
of the briefing room when he heard a familiar voice.::

Solok: Doctor Zhou. A moment of your time.

Zhou: ::turning around:: Yes, of course, doctor.

Solok: Before beginning the work you suggested during the briefing, I advise
you to insure you have fulfilled your boarding duties -- the medical
examination, the psychological evaluation, and acquiring your security codes
-- if you have not done so already.

Zhou: ::nods:: Yes, I will get right on it. I haven't yet had the full tour
of the medical facilities on board, so perhaps one of the nursing staff
could assist?

Solok: Very well, Doctor. I will be conferring with Commander Ehlanii and
Lieutenant Sudra in approximately 53.443 minutes in the First Officer's
office. New duties may present themselves to us both at that time. ::He
paused.:: I will keep you apprised.

Zhou: Understood. ::A smile then formed on Zhou's face when a mischievous
thought crossed his mind about offering his hand out to shake Solok's, but
fortunately his senses prevented him from possibly offending his new
superior officer.::

Solok: RESPONSE

Zhou: No, nothing else. Good luck, doctor. ::turns back to head to the
turbolift.::

((Zhou's quarters))

::The doctor entered his cabin. The room was still spartan and dark.::

Zhou: Computer, lights. Any messages?

Computer: You have a personal message from Ensign Vasilisa Ivanov, USS
Pioneer.

::Zhou collapsed into the lone chair next to the bed, propping his feet on a
table.::

Zhou: Play audio.

::A playful voice filled the room::

Ivanov: Hey, Doc, hope you haven't been sent to the brig yet. ::laugh::

::Zhou closed his eyes and smiled at his friend's embarrassing snort::

Ivanov: (continuing) So, how is it? Being out on a real Starfleet ship again
and not just in a holodeck? Things here on the Pioneer haven't been too
hectic. My new CO seems competent enough. And guess what? The kid doctor
here told me his whole life story practically in the first three minutes
that I met him instead of the three years it took you! He's so adorable,
too, like a little puppy dog. Don't worry, I'll be good.

::Zhou raised an eyebrow::

Ivanov: All right, I'll let you go back to annoying your new shipmates, but
you better keep in touch like you promised. Mitch sends his regards. Later,
Spot!

::With that, the computer acknowledged the end of the message with a beep,
and Zhou continued to lie in the chair as the stars whisked by.::

((Free Spirit, Deck 7, *Independence-A*))

::It had been a long day after the meeting and taking care of the final
preparations Solok requested. Zhou decided to continue his tour of the ship
on his own. He found his way to what seemed a popular gathering spot. There
he spotted a few familiar faces and joined them for a drink or two.::

Zhou: Mind if I join you?

Shan: Sure, sit down.

Zhou: Thanks. ::puts the glass of water he had been carrying on the table::

Shan: I really can�t believe all that�s happening �round here: Vaadwaur,
people disappearing, its one adventure after the other, and we have to play
catch up.::Grinning::

Zhou: Yeah, just one adventure after the next, right?

Shan: I guess that�s why I joined Starfleet, for the adventure.

Zhou: Are you the first in your family to join?

Shan: RESPONSE

Zhou: Nope. You're looking at the third generation of Zhous in space. Well,
actually, third generation on my mother's side.

Shan: RESPONSE

Zhou: Yep, born and raised out here. ::Zhou gazed out towards the stars
before turning back to Shan.:: Definitely a great venue for those looking
for adventure. ::He gave a smile.::

((OOC: We can continue this part of the conversation as necessary and if
there are other ensigns who would like to join in, please have yourself join
our table by all means!))

::After a few minutes of small talk, a familiar voice interrupted the junior
officers' chat.::

Ehlanii: Good evening, Gentlemen.

Zhou: ::looking up at the first officer:: Commander.

Shan: Evening, Commander. ::Shan smiles::

Any other ensign(s): RESPONSE

Ehlanii: How have you all been settling in?

Zhou: Pretty well, considering.

Shan/Others: RESPONSES

::The separation between the standing first officer and the sitting ensigns
made Zhou a little uncomfortable. He gestured towards an empty seat::

Zhou: If you'd care to join us?

::Just then, however, Commander Rogers walked in and waved, grabbing Ehlanii
and Shan's attention.::

Shan: Excuse me, got an appointment to keep.

Ehlanii: ::smiling and nodding:: Have a good evening, Ensign Shan.

Shan: RESPONSE

Zhou: Yes, good night, ensign.

Others: RESPONSES?

Ehlanii: Is there anything I can do to make the transition to the
Independence easier?

Zhou: oO You could sit down... Oo ::shakes head:: Everybody's been very
helpful so far. It's been pretty exciting so far with the shake-up in
sickbay, but I think Dr. Solok and I will be able to handle whatever awaits
us.

Others: RESPONSE

Ehlanii: RESPONSE

TAG! ((<---- OOC: Did I do that right?))
--
Ensign Tenzin Zhou
Medical Officer
USS Independence-A

Lieutenant Charles Sampi: Fish Out of Water
Mar 15, 2011

(Arboretum, Deep Space 17))

::Lieutenant Charles Sampi scanned the large facility before him. Charlie didn't usually partake in "nature," even if it were just artificial nature, but after spending a few days so far on Deep Space 17, he seemed to have run out of distractions. The 26-year old doctor had visited nearly every shop, cafe, and recreational center that had reopened on the station while he waited to make the official move onto the Independence as its new assistant chief medical officer. All that was left were the arboretum and the cargo bays. He somehow doubted the station's cargo bays would be that different from those on the USS Pioneer.

Besides, where there were trees and water, there usually were also attractive women, perhaps even those who wouldn't mind some company for an afternoon.::

Boy: Hey Romulan! You don't belong here!

::Charlie's attention turned to a group of children a few meters away down by one of the streams. He walked over to see what was going on. As he approached the children, he saw three boys teasing a Romulan girl. One of the boys threw a rock at the girl. She picked it up and threw it back, hitting his shoe.::

Boy 2: We're telling on you! You're in trouble now Romulan! We're gonna get security!

Sampi: Hey, you three! What are you doing?

::The boys ran off quickly without answering. The Romulan girl simply glared at them. She then looked away and sat back down at the edge of the water. Charlie walked up to her.::

Sampi: Are you all right?

Tirzah: RESPONSE

Sampi: It's okay. I'll make sure they won't bother you again. My name's Charlie. What's yours?

Tirzah: RESPONSE

TAG!

Lieutenant Charles Sampi
Assistant Chief Medical Officer
USS Independence-A

Drs. Wittburn & Sampi: Chain of Command
Jul 21, 2011

((CMO's Office, USS Independence-A, BACKSIM before Townson meets with Sampi))

Sampi: I understand there was an unfortunate previous indiscretion in this department that predates my time here. This incident may signal that even now not enough has been done to squash such kindy behavior. Still, from what you've told me thus far, I am more inclined right now to recommend she simply be moved to the bottom of the promotion list instead of an outright demotion.

Wittburn: I'm sorry Sir, I respectfully disagree.

Sampi: That is your right. After I speak with the other parties, I will revisit your recommendation and will let you know my final decision as soon as possible.

Wittburn: I understand Sir. ::William stood to attention. And then spoke on impulse.:: At this time I am submitting my resignation Sir.

::He reached up and removed his comm badge setting it on Charlie's desk. The young CMO leaned back in surprise.::

Sampi: May I ask the reason for your resignation, doctor?

Wittburn: I believe I no longer fit in with the department Sir.

::Doctor Wittburn looked straight ahead, blinking.::

Sampi: I see...

::The blonde haired Doctor coughed lightly, uncomfortably as the CMO only spoke two words.::

Wittburn: I will forward my official resignation to LtCmdr. Brice to forward to the Captain as soon as I am dismissed Sir.

Sampi: Sounds like you've made up your mind, then.

Wittburn: I've been here a long time Doctor, I've been with this crew a long time before that. I started my career on the Independence Sir. This isn't the same ship, especially not in the medical department. Permission to speak freely Sir.

::Charlie nodded his head. Something told him he was about to get a lecture. The other physician continued.::

Wittburn: I was left in charge of the medical department in your absence. I followed standard Starfleet procedure with her, especially for medical situations and the fact she was on probation already. Because Commander Townson has complained, decisions are now being questioned as well as my integrity as the officer who was in charge of the bay at the time. Now that you have returned, it had been decided the decisions I made are to be reviewed and discounted despite the fact you were unavailable to make those decisions at the time. The lack of trust in this department is palpable. People who disobey orders and release personal medical information are allowed to stay on the staff with no consequences for their actions. I do not want to be a part of that.

Sampi: Well, two things, doctor. First, you are conflating two incidents, the earlier of which, I just explicitly told you was before my time here. If you had an issue with the decision made back then under Doctors Zhou and T'Reshik, you should have made it known to them. However, I will note that you are wrong when you say the two individuals have suffered no consequence. As one of his final acts as CMO, Doctor Zhou reported both of those individuals to Starfleet Medical, and the JAG corps is processing their cases. Once a formal court martial is ready, they will be transferred from the ship to await further judgement. Until then, they are effectively working on probation. Of course, all of this information wouldn't be made available to you because as a staff physician, you do not have access to such sensitive remarks on our personnel files. Which brings me to my second point...

::Charlie paused as he looked up at the other doctor still standing and staring ahead.::

Sampi: Doctor, would you care to have a seat again while we discuss this situation?

::The other man stayed at attention.::

Wittburn: I am up for renewal of my comission Sir, it is my right to resign.

Sampi: And until that resignation is approved by the Captain, I am still your department chief and superior officer. ::coldly:: Sit down, ensign.

::William knew a lecture was coming. He sat down as the man told him.::

Wittburn: Aye Sir.

Sampi: While your last CMO Dr. Zhou was an OCSer, I am not. If you didn't think they already drilled into our heads proper Starfleet procedure at the Medical Academy, you'd know they would later during our internship, having completed your own on a starship.

::William stayed at attention while seated.::

Sampi: You were a nurse before in Starfleet yourself. How many postings have you served on in your career?

Wittburn: This is my fifth post Sir.

Sampi: And how would you describe these different departments? Were they all the same? Any unique qualities of one in particular?

Wittburn: They were all similar Sir, although each CMO had a certain style.

::Will thought back, he had first served under Doctor Sidney Riley on the USS Wallace, a stickler for the rules, but still compassionate. It was part of the reason he had requested the Independence.::

::The CMO nodded as the other man spoke.::

Sampi: The medical departments I've served in have all had their quirks and different ways of doing things. Some were more formal than others, although truthfully, all were more lax about rank and saying, "Yes, sir!" when compared to another department like security. Part of that more relaxed atmosphere is because of what we have to deal with as a department. You're right: people die. Sometimes they die from our mistakes. Sometimes they die despite all our actions to save them. Any department that goes through that on a regular basis has to develop a deeper feeling of camaraderie than just one based on a militaristic hierarchy. Often, that foundation is akin to the trust of good friends and family. And do you know what, Doctor Wittburn? I trust you. I trust your assessment of what happened and I trust your abilities as a physician and officer.

Wittburn: Thank you Sir. ::William frowned, the CMO didn't get it. That much was obvious.::

Sampi: Let me just state it bluntly: whatever Commander Townson's concerns, I am neither questioning your integrity as an officer nor am I questioning any decisions you made in my absence. In fact, you performed admirably, and I was planning on adding a note of commendation on your actions in my final mission report and to your file.

::The Doctor's face was stoic.::

Sampi: That said, your decisions do not include direct disciplining of department staff. As a staff physician, you can file a report to my office and even provide a recommended course of action, but any actual decision regarding punishment falls under the direct purview of the chief medical officer and the ship's command staff. And even then, the CMO--or even acting CMO, which you were not--can only recommend to the ship's command staff whether someone in my department should be formally reprimanded, demoted, or conversely, awarded or promoted. Any of these final decisions regarding ship's personnel rest with the captain. It is not a lack of trust; it is the Chain of Command.

Wittburn: I'm sorry Sir, it is a lack of trust. I was acting CMO on the ship while you were kidnapped. For decisions made during that time to be questioned is a lack of trust in my abilities to handle the department in your absence. I am sorry Sir, but I am firm in my decision.

::Charlie frowned, making no effort to hide his disappointment. The ensign didn't get it. It seemed Charlie's words had fallen on deaf ears. As if to make it more obvious, the ensign continued.::

Wittburn: I had already been berated by one Command Officer in your absence and now have those decisions reviewed and questioned...I have been under Captain Riley's command for a long time. It is time for me to say goodbye.

::The CMO leaned back in his chair, thinking to himself. If Doctor Wittburn was so intent on leaving Starfleet now as an ensign, showing no progression in his career, perhaps Charlie should just let him. But he still had to ask him something.::

Sampi: Doctor, how did you get through your training?

Wittburn: I worked my way through Sir, from the bottom up.

Sampi: I mean, I'm just trying to understand why you are taking what should have been known to you as standard departmental practices so personally. As a junior physician, this should not be the first time that you have had to consult with senior physicians regarding issues in a sickbay and explain your position on such matters, whether they be medical or administrative.

Wittburn: No, it is not.  However, when one is placed in charge and makes a decision...

Sampi: No, you were not acting CMO. You were the senior physician onboard the ship while the next physician in charge of this department, Lieutenant JG Mevra, was on the surface.

Wittburn:  That is not what was indicated on the roster Sir. 

::Charlie raised his eyebrow at the ensign. The roster was rather clearly written out.::

Sampi: I'm sorry you misunderstood the roster.

Wittburn: When you disappeared with the Captain, I was placed in charge of sickbay.

Sampi: ::shakes his head:: No... and furthermore, even if you were the acting CMO, that does not mean once I have returned to my position that I do not reserve the right to review recommendations and decisions made in my absence. And as I have tried to clarify for you already, regarding discipline of personnel, you have only made recommendations as a physician on this ship. You do not have any decision making power in this matter.

::William said nothing staring straight ahead.  He had never been treated this way by any other command officer.  All the others had trusted him and had agreed with keeping discipline in sickbay.  He was completely at a loss as to why the man considered his decision to be out of bounds.::

::The CMO stared directly at the other physician for a moment. The ensign wasn't getting it, and apparently, he was never going to get it. Perhaps this was why he had remained an ensign throughout his time in Starfleet. Regardless, Charlie's patience and curiosity in this matter was finished.::

Sampi: If you cannot get your head around that and develop the maturity expected of both a Starfleet officer and physician to handle professional oversight from his superiors, then very well, ensign: I agree you do not belong in this sickbay. I am dismissing you from this department as of now.

Wittburn: Respectfully I've already resigned Sir.

::Charlie stopped and glared at the ensign.::

Sampi: Your resignation is not effective until the captain accepts it, ensign. And if you have any desire to leave Starfleet with an unblemished record, you will restrain yourself from talking back with any further "respectful" remarks while you remain in my presence wearing that uniform.

::Charlie paused to let the comment get through to the other man.::

Sampi: I am releasing you from your duties for the remaining time you have on this ship as a courtesy. I suggest you make preparations for wherever you wish to go once we arrive back on DS17.

Wittburn: I have family back on Earth, who knows maybe I'll even start dating again and try to start a family... ::He shrugged.:: My father has wanted me to open a practice on Earth for quite some time now.

::Part of Charlie knew he should wish the other doctor good luck, but the CMO was too royally pissed off to go through such gestures. He simply nodded.::

Sampi: You're dismissed, doctor.

::As the ensign left, Charlie sat for a moment, thinking about how what should have been a routine, if busy, first morning back on this ship had suddenly turned sour. He stared down at his cup, its contents now quite cold.::

END

Ensign William Wittburn
Medical Officer
USS Independence-A
 
and

(Then) Lieutenant Charles Sampi
Chief Medical Officer
USS Independence-A