Created by Commodore Phoenix Lalor-Richardson on Mon Apr 1st, 2019 @ 9:03pm

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Deck the Halls

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Deck 16 - Grand Ballroom

Timeline: MD1 ( December 15th 2394)

The Elysium was docked. Docked quietly in its new berth on Starbase Gamma. Those injured were recovering, and crew were transferring in and out. The remaining crew were having a well-deserved R& R on the Starbase as they celebrated the holiday season. Well those who celebrated it did.

Commander Phoenix Lalor did not. She was Erisian and Erisians did not have such holidays. Birthdays were the main event celebrated, more so if you were male, and then only the big ones. 1 Yr, 5 yrs, 10, 13, 16 and 21. Then at 30,40 and so on. But Phoenix understood tradition.

With that in mind, she had, ordered the Grand ballroom on Deck 16 (Yeah the ship had one) decorated in the WINTER WONDERLAND Theme with a Large decorated Christmas Tree and (holographic) elves and the ‘red-man’ Santa. Music played 24/7 and food was brought in and out onto a buffet table on one side of the room. Phoenix had made it a 24/7 Christmas celebration for those who wanted it.

She peeked in every so often and smiled as the younger children of the ship ran about having snowball fights in the designated area and playing tag among the decorations and tables.

Now she stood silently watching as the teenagers of the ship, ran amok in the snow and laughed together. Celebration was what was needed by her crew. Celebration, something to banish what they had just been dealing with.

She put the brave face on it. The beings were dead. Gone. But part of it still niggled at her. Perhaps they weren't. Starfleet was already sending a group out to investigate the nebular and see if there were more. She prayed there wasn't. Sighing, she forced the smile onto her face, turned and headed for her office. Paper work waited for no one.

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Of shoes and ships and Socrates...

A Mission Post by Ensign T'Saralonde & Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Executive Officer's Office

Timeline: MD1 1030

T'Saralonde did not bother checking her appearance as she prepared to present herself to Commander Taylor. She already knew her appearance was pristine. Her uniform was in order, her long hair was in a loose but still regulation ponytail, and she had in hand the PADD the contained both her personnel record and her orders, all that regulation and custom required. Without hesitation, she signaled her presence to her new (and first) executive officer on the other side of the door.

On the other side of the door, Gary was doing what was the bane for all officers......paperwork. Raising his head at the sound of the chime. He automatically called out "Enter" even as he checked his schedule and didn't see any appointments on it. Rising from his chair,he briefly allowed his mind to wander and hoped it was Lia.He hadn't spoken with her today and he could use a break. Turning an expectant eye toward the doors he waited to see who came through them.

T'Saralonde entered the office without hesitation or apprehension, posting herself squarely in front of his desk.

"Ensign T'Saralonde, Commander, reporting with my orders," she stated, presenting the PADD with said orders.

"Yes, we are expecting some new crew transfers." Gary answered, "Please have a seat." he offered as he looked over her orders. Sitting back down Gary was silent for several seconds as he read through her orders and background. Raising his head, he looked directly into her eyes. "Very impressive Ensign. I see that you were a researcher at the Vulcan Academy of Sciences and also attended Starfleet Academy."

T'Saralonde took the proffered seat, her posture remaining alert. "I found myself most appreciative of the generalist approach of Starfleet Academy. To use individuals from human history, Commander, I found the Academy sought to cultivate the Francis Bacons and Leonardo Da Vincis within its midst, for which I am grateful."

"A very astute observation Ensign. The Academy strives to get each cadet to rise to the potential they all have within them." He looked down at orders, then back at her. "Why did you request the Elysium Ensign?"

T'Saralonde paused for a moment, before asking, "Are you familiar with the tenets of Kol-Ut-Shan, Commander? Infinite Diversity in Infinity Combinations?"

"I am, though I'm no expert." He admitted. "You are describing the IDIC." He observed, "And you're saying by joining the Elysium you can achieve your maximum potential through the infinite diversity being both a member of the crew as well as the missions the ship undertakes Or am I mistaken?"

"That would be an adequate approximation, though not a complete one," T'Saralonde responded. "The concept of 'maximum potential' is similar to infinity, in that neither exists in the material universe. They are concepts which are spoken of as being approached, but not achieved. Your planet's philosopher Plato touched on this concept in his 'Allegory of the Cave.'"

T'Saralonde paused before apologizing. "Forgive me, Commander. I am a granddaughter of a philosopher and I find that. if I do not check myself, my discourses evolve into subjects metaphysical. But yes, I do hope, as I believe most rational individuals do, to achieve my maximum potential, and I do believe the Elysium would be part of the path that would allow me to do so. However, I believe it more important to be part of an experience, be it as starship officer, an academic researcher, or some other position, that promotes the tenets of Kol-Ut-Shan, whether I directly benefit from that experience or not. Being an officer on the Elysium will allow me to do it. And so I am here. Wuh olozhikaik hasu bolau bae'cok u' wuh olozhikaik hasu. A rational being must act as a rational being."

"I see." Gary replied slowly. "Thank you for pointing out the differences." He paused and placed his hands together,looking at her. "Nothing to forgive Ensign.You explained what you are hoping to achieve as a member of the Elysium's crew. I believe we can help you reach your maximum potential and you can enrich ours while you are a member of the crew. As for a rational being acting as a rational being, while that is expected and hoped for, you will find on occasion that it is not true."

T'Saralonde left eyebrow arched a centimeter before responding. "If every sentient being acted rationally when called upon to do so, Commander, then there would have never been a need for Surak, Cicero and the like. The discipline my people are know for does not expect rational behavior at all times; rather, it calls for one to strive for that goal. We may be prisoners in Plato's world of shadows, but we may still strive to see the light that cast those shadows." T'Saralonde paused before adding. "On a less abstract note, Commander, I look forward to serving on the Elysium."

Gary nodded at T'Saralonde's statement. "Very true Ensign as well as being very enlightened. We look forward to your service here on the Elysium.I am sure you will continue the impressive work you began at the Vulcan Academy of Sciences and through your time at Starfleet Academy. Welcome aboard the Elysium, Ensign T'Saralonde."

"Thank you, sir," T'Saralonde said, coming to her feet. "I appreciate the opportunity," she added, extending her hand.

Gary rose, extending his hand as he did to grasp hers in a firm but warm handshake. "I'm sure you will make the most of it Ensign. For now you are dismissed."

"Aye aye, sir," T'Saralonde responded, as she made her exit, returning to her quarters with...if not determination, then certainly focus, as her mind began mapping out her activities for the day.

Sitting back down, Gary watched T'Saralonde exit his office.He had no doubt that the Vulcan would be an excellent addition to the crew and that good things were in store for her.

Off

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - The Best Christmas Gift

A Mission Post by Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: SB Gamma - Food Court

Timeline: MD 1

ON

Liselle Qwyyn breathed a happy sigh. Her smile beamed bright as she strolled in to the tiny restaurant on the periphery of the food court on Starbase Gamma. Silver garland draped down from the entrance way, adorned with flashing lights of red, green, and white. Just inside she could see a tall pine tree, decorated with all of the trimmings from the sappiest of Christmas movies she had once watched with David while he was still serving aboard the Elysium. Each table was adorned with a checkered green and red cloth, and the staff wore Elven shoes and red hats. She herself had dressed in red tights and an over-sized green sweater whose sleeves fell down over her hands.

It was perfect.

She had asked Gary to meet her here for a working lunch -- a pretense for the Christmas gift she wanted to give him. Qwyyn wasn't certain if he celebrated the holiday. Truthfully, she found the further she was from Earth the less she saw of any observance of the tradition. But even as a Trill, she absolutely adored the human custom.

Liselle waited for him there at the entrance, standing by the Christmas tree, and deeply inhaling the crisp scent of pine while dangling ornaments reflected in her sparkling eyes.

Gary had received Liselle's invitation to meet her for a working lunch. He was well aware of the festive mood as he entered the food court. This was his first Christmas without Catlin and he was struggling not to be a Scrooge and inflict a bah Humbug! mood on others, especially Liselle as she had sounded so happy when she asked him to lunch. He looked down at the package he held in his hands. It was a Christmas gift for Liselle based on their holodeck adventures. He just hoped she didn't find it hokey.

Looking around the food court he didn't immediately see her and that allowed him to take in the sights of the food court, starting with the huge lighted Christmas tree, down to the holiday decorated tables as well as the likewise holiday dressed wait staff. Then he saw her and he had to smile. Liselle was dressed in red tights and an over-sized green sweater that fell past her wrists hiding her hands. She made the perfect elf!. He himself had dressed conservatively. He had on black slacks and a red, a more garnet colored shirt his nod to Christmas. Lifting a hand he waved to her and moved toward her.

Her eyes went wide with delighted surprise when she saw him. Of course she had known he was coming to meet her, but until that very moment she hadn't realized how badly she wanted to share in the spirit of the holiday decor with someone she knew. And Gary had just so happened to be the first on her gift list.

She ran to him in small skittering steps, like a girl wearing her ice skates for the very first time. "Gods, Gary! Do you see it!" she cried as she reached him. Without waiting for an answer, she looped her arm in his and walked him toward the restaurant and into the swelling holiday music that thrived there. "Everything is so beautiful!"

His smile blossomed across his face as he saw her running toward him. Her joy was infectious. He nodded at her statement, happiness creeping into his voice as he replied. "I see it. I surely do Liselle. Your right, it's beautiful like something out of an old fashion picture." As he hooked arms with her and she guided him toward a restaurant that was already teaming with patrons and loud holiday music. His hand holding tightly to the box it clutched.

A waiter swooped in to intercept at them at the entrance. "I am so sorry," he said with a polite bow. "I'm afraid that all of our tables are in use at the moment. Might I interest the happy couple in a seat at the bar?"

Liselle smiled as she pressed her ear to Gary's chest, clasping his arm with the heavy sleeve that covered her hand. "Just happy. No couple," she said. And she released her grip on the Elysium's Executive Officer, standing with her hands at her side next to him to better make the point clear.

The waiter held a fist to his mouth and coughed, embarrassed. "Of course. My apologies." He turned about to gesture to the bar behind him. "Please, we have many festive drinks I do not doubt you will adore."

Gary chuckled softly at both Liselle's comment and her accompanying example to show that they weren't a couple. He eyed the embarrassed waiter as he struggled to recover from his mistake. Gary nodded, led Liselle to a stool, whispering in her ear, a grin in his voice, "You know Liselle, technically we are a couple. There's you and me, that makes two and we are here together." He joked lightly as they sat down, grabbing two drink lists, handing one to Liselle as he perused the other. "So Liselle any idea on what your going to order? He asked as he peered at her over the top of the list. "I haven't heard of most of these drinks."

He sapped his fingers together, "Hey! I wonder if they have any cheddar cheese fries? If you've never tried any, you need to. They are absolutely delicious."

Qwyyn cocked her head at him, playful mirth filling her brown eyes. "I can only imagine how terrible that food is for us. And in that case, I will pick equally unhealthy drinks." Her finger traced its way down the menu until she settled on a selection, tapping it eagerly. "The Christmas Cocktail. Perfect. Coconut ice-cream, vanilla vodka, and creme de cocoa."

She noticed then that the bartender had made her way over to where they sat. The woman leaned over the bar between them.

"For two," Qwyyn said to her. "I think this will get us started nicely." As the bartender left to see to their order, Liselle turned back to Gary. "Can I confess something to you, Commander?"

"It may be terrible" Gary agreed, "But it is soooo good," He quipped. "A large order of cheddar fries if you have them and Oh! some onion rings as well." He shouted to bartender before turning his attention back to Liselle "Sorry Liselle, you just have to have onion rings as well." He cocked his head at her, "A confession?" A note of curiosity creeping into his voice. "Of course you can and it's Gary not Commander. I know we work together but I also like to think we're friends. Now just what do you want to confess?"

She looked down into her lap, blushing. "Well," she began. "I didn't exactly ask you here for a working lunch. I just -- I wanted to spend time with you. I mean I wanted to be with you -- I mean, not romantically, I realize that you're with Lia and -- " She took in a deep, steadying breath. With both hands she pushed the air down in front of her. "I'm getting flustered. Sorry. That happens. Of course you know that happens." She placed her hands on her chest, cleared her throat. "Okay. Sorry. Let me try this again --"

"Your drinks." The bartender announced, setting them down on the bar.

"Oh thank the Gods!" Liselle breathed, immediately snatching hers up to drink from it.

Gary sat silently as Liselle flustered attempted to explain, er confess whatever it was she felt needed confessing.Nor did he laugh or make a joke, he felt that would have made the situation worse as Liselle might think he was making fun of her, something he would never do. He watched as she grabbed her drink to drink from it.

"Liselle." He said quietly. "Breathe. There's no reason for you to feel flustered. You can tell me anything and it will never go any farther. Now just go slow and take your time." He suggested. Just then the waitress popped over, "You want cheddar fries and onion rings?" Gary nodded quickly not wishing to be rude but neither did he want Liselle to lose her courage. "Yea please." He answered as the waitress nodded, made a note on her PaDD and headed off to the kitchen. "Okay Liselle." His attention once again on his friend, "You were attempting to say?"

"Gods, you truly are perfect, you jerk," Liselle murmured to herself. She set her drink down, squeezed her hands into fists and found her courage, found her core. She looked into his eyes. Her voice low. "Gary, I like you. I'm sorry, but I do. I really like you," she said. "You make me feel -- when I'm with you, I feel like I am finally, FINALLY, exactly the person that I want to be. And I know it's not appropriate for me to tell you that, but I have to." She looked down at her hands. At her open palms. Back up at him. "You've got things figured out. You and Lia. You know what you want. And me, I've got this opportunity with Matias, but I've been sabotaging it. Because I haven't been able to get past these feelings I have for you. But I think I have a way to do that now."

Gary listened in silence as Liselle found her courage and spoke of her feelings for him. When she was finished, he reached a hand out and placed it softly atop hers. "Liselle.I am truly touched by what you have said and why shouldn't you tell me? We're friends and friends, good friends, close friends that I feel we are should be able to tell each other anything." He paused, shook his head and gave a small laugh, "I don't know if I've got things figured out Liselle. I do know Lia and I do the best we can and take it one day at a time." He paused again and took a sip of his drink as if to bolster his own courage. Placing his drink down he looked into her expressive brown eyes. "Matias is a good man." He said in agreement. His face taking on a puzzled look as Liselle mentioned getting past her feelings for him. "Oh?" He questioned, "I see." He said but he didn't. It felt like Liselle was ending their friendship and that hurt and disappointed him. "Just what have you decided Liselle?" His eyes on the bar counter.

She couldn't help but enjoy the warmth of his human flesh atop her cold Trill skin as he kept his hand atop hers. For just a few seconds she gave herself permission to fully enjoy the moment: the beautiful lights, the sparkling drinks, the bustling crowd, the happy music. Gary.

And then she pressed on with what she wanted to say. Needed to say. "This is good news, actually," she assured him. "You've been so good to me, and all this time I've been poisoning our friendship because I've wanted more from you. More than you can give me. But now that I'm letting that go, we can be friends. Truly. No other expectations. No other baggage. In fact --" she reached a hand into her sleeve and withdrew a tiny jeweler's box, no bigger than a square inch, and she held it out to him. "I got something for you. Something to show you how important your friendship will always be to me."

If there was one thing Gary was good at it was listening. He listened to what people said. Didn't try to impose his ideas on their thoughts. He listened acutely to what Liselle was saying now and even though she said they would remain friends. It felt like something was ending, something special. That he had let Liselle down and he was disappointed in himself. Smiling at her, he watched as she pulled out a small box. "For me?" He questioned. "Liselle you shouldn't have." He protested weakly, his hand clutching the box he held even tighter.

Liselle studied Gary's reaction intently. Though her eyes shimmered on the verge of tears, her smile easily reached them. "You know how Starship Captains have their little quirks when giving orders? Well, when I was in flight school I had this one instructor, Anatorius. Whenever he wanted a full stop he'd order 'drop anchor!' and so I would cut engines. I asked him about it after graduation, and he told me that in ancient times, sea vessels would have these gigantic, heavy chunks of metal that they would lower into the water to stop their boats from moving. This was particularly important if the skies became so cloudy that the sailors couldn't read the stars -- it was very easy to go off course in those days. Anatorius told me that as long as you knew that you were anchored, you'd always know where you were. You could stay safe while you waited for the skies to clear." Liselle reached over and with a long, painted fingernail she tapped the box she had offered him. "That's how I think of you. I may have a hell of time figuring out where I'm going sometimes. But with you, Gary, whenever I can't see my stars I always feel like I know where I am."

Gary was stunned by the depth of thought Liselle had put into hie gift. Looking at the box, he opened it and saw two silver anchors. He was overcome with emotion , his eyes misted up. It was so damn thoughtful, so Liselle. He looked at her tried to talk,but couldn't he was choked up. He grabbed his drink took a huge swallow and cleared his throat. "Liselle......" He began but emotions threaten to overtake him. He paused, cleared his throat again and started over. "Liselle, these are gorgeous! Simply gorgeous." He smiled at her, "You do yourself a disservice Liselle you under estimate your self worth and the effect you have on other people's lives. You are my anchor Liselle. My rock and safe harbor. Someone I can always count on no matter what the situation. and yes I'm familiar with the expression. I didn't realize anyone still used it."

Qwyyn drew a thumb across her cheek. Gary's reaction had been more than she had ever dared hoped for. Truth be told, she had braced herself for a painfully embarrassing scene. This? This was heaven. She wanted to reach out and touch him, to cradle his cheek. She loved the feel of human skin, the way it scratched against the palms with its stubbly hair, and how the heat of their blood always kept it so bright and so impossibly warm. But she didn't want to risk losing this moment.

"Cheddar fries and onion rings!" the bartender cheerfully announced, setting down a steaming hot black plate between the two of them. "Can I get you two anything else? Refills?"

Liselle shook her head, snapping herself back into reality. "Yes. A refill would be absolutely perfect right now. Thank you."

"Make that two." Gary added. As the bartender walked away to bring them refills for their drinks, Gary looked across at Liselle,he was still in awe over her gift. Composing himself,he slid the steaming plate of fries and rings towards her, "Ladies first." He suggested as his hand brought forth his own box. "I have something for you as well Liselle." He said as he handed the box to her. It was uniquely suited to Liselle. He prayed she would like it.

She already had the first fry in her mouth. A satisfied moan rose up from her throat. Her eyes were closed as she practically melted her way out of her seat in a haze of culinary ecstasy. She held up a hand to Gary, as though about to testify to her congregation. "There are. No words. For how amazing this is." When she opened her eyes again, she saw the box he had offered to her, and she couldn't help but shake her head in grateful disbelief. Of course this unattainable man would have been perfect enough to think to bring her a present to her own fake working lunch.

Without waiting on further ceremony, Qwyyn eagerly dug her way into the box. She gasped. "Oh. Oh, Gary." Reaching inside, she gently lifted out a white cowboy hat. And beneath that, there was a five star badge, etched with a single word: Sheriff. She wasted no time setting the hat atop her head. She looked up at it from beneath her eyebrows, a childlike smile painting her face. And then back at Gary. "Our adventure together on the holodeck. Oh, Gary. It's perfect." Her voice was little more than a whisper. She drew her fingertips along the bottoms of her eyes, and she was certain her mascara was completely smeared now. "Absolutely perfect." She cocked her head at him playfully, sniffling back the tears, smiling despite herself. "Well, how do I look?"

Gary watched Liselle put a fry into her mouth. He couldn't help but smile at her reaction. It was one of pure joy, It appeared as Liselle had experienced Nirvana. So blissfully happy was her reaction. "If you like those try an onion ring." He suggested. Then settled back as Liselle opened and dug into her box, like a kid on Christmas. If he thought he had seen ecstasy before with her reaction to eating a cheese fry, her reaction to the hat blew it away. He saw her childlike smile, heard her whisper it was perfect. Then placed it atop her head. He nodded when she mentioned their holodeck adventure. "Right you are Liselle and I hope we can have more. How do you look? You look like a real honest to goodness sheriff. And at the risk of sounding sexist. The prettiest one ever." Offering her a radiant smile. He was happy that she was happy. Even though he still felt he had let Liselle down by not being available for her. Then that was his problem, when you were his friend he tried to everything he could to help,please you. Then held himself to impossible standards, feeling he let you down when he couldn't.

"Your drinks!" the bartender cut in, setting another round of Christmas Cocktails down on the bar. The bartender leaned in on her elbows between them, and with a slender finger she pointed to the ceiling above them. "We've got one above every table, you know." She winked at Liselle. "In case you need the excuse?"

Liselle looked above them and saw a sprig of some green plant dangling from the ceiling. She blinked. "Excuse for what? What is it?"

Gary gave a quick laugh at Liselle's lack of knowledge and her puzzled expression with this Christmas tradition. "It's mistletoe Liselle. When you're standing or even just under it you can kiss the person you are with." He patiently explained.

She nearly felt her heart stop. "You're not serious!" she said, her eyes wide. "What an incredibly brilliant idea." And immediately her better instincts took over. The door, however friendly and holiday-traditional, was open. And this was a chance likely to not ever come up again. With one hand holding down the back of her hat, she leaned in to Gary.

Gary nodded his head, his smile broadening threatening to split his face wide open at seeing Liselle's wide eyed, joyful look. "It's true Liselle. I promise and as far as Christmas ideas go, this is one of the better ones." He answered honestly. He stopped as she with one hand on her hat suddenly leaned toward him, her intention clear. He gave her a accompanying smile as he thought *It's Christmas* and leaned forward to meet her.

Liselle craned her head around to kiss Taylor soundlessly on the cheek. She leaned back, away from him, and she saw the lipstick she had left behind. Her hand went back to him, to his face, and with her thumb she brushed her mark away from his skin. "Merry Christmas, Gary."

Gary's lips brushed Liselle's cheek just as her lips were brushing his cheek. Leaning back, he took her in with her bright radiant smile, her wide eyed innocence all capped by the white cowboy hat she wore. It made the perfect picture. He didn't reply immediately as he was remembering their first meeting when he had first come aboard. That was followed by their Old West holodeck adventure and her making him feel so welcome and them becoming closer. It was followed by another Old West holodeck adventure which cemented their friendship. All which led to today. His hand went absently to his cheek where Liselle had wiped her lipstick away. He smiled brilliantly at this dear,sweet wonderful, truly amazing woman and he realized just how lucky he was that she was in his life. "Merry Christmas Liselle." He replied quietly. Liselle had given him the greatest Christmas gift ever.....the gift of true friendship and he would always be grateful to her for that.

Qwyyn held his eyes for a moment. Just looking at him. And then, with a mischievous smile, she pointed to the mistletoe above them. "Think Phoenix would appreciate me hanging some of this over her command chair?"

Gary's eyes held Liselle's for a moment before drifting upward to where the mistletoe hung. His smile matched hers. "I think that is a truly outstanding idea. After all it's Christmas."

Liselle giggled her delight. She reached up a hand to wave it at the bartender.

The woman made her way over to the two of them immediately. "Everything okay here?"

"Perfect," Liselle assured her. "Listen, I'm sorry to bother you with this, but can you tell me how I can get my hands on one of these kissing plants? I think it would make the best Christmas gift for someone."

OFF

CMDR Aurelia Holmes's Personal Log – Rumours

The following is a personal log from CMDR Aurelia Holmes.

ON

"Computer start recording. I have heard some unsettling rumours, about Commander Taylor. It would seem he may have another love interest, a friend I thought I could trust. I will ask both of them, and check the answers I get. If true I may have to ask for a transfer to another ship, because there will be no way I could stay here. I might do something I would regret, and I don't see why someone playing away should ruin my career.

I told him what would happen if this kind of thing occurred, it's not as if he didn't know. Why do I trust men? Their after just one thing, and if they don't get it from one they move on to another. I don't know if Liselle knows about us, I think she would. But how do I react to that kind of backstabbing? I will monitor and report back to my personal log, Computer stop recording and save"

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - With amputated bush limbs Fa-la-la-la-la

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Ian Murphy & Ensign T'Saralonde

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Starbase Gamma

Timeline: One day before Elysium arrives.

So this was the Gamma Quadrant. Well, now he'd been to three of the four, if that even really mattered. Murphy had managed to convince the captain of an Akira class to bring himself and his shuttle here through the Bajoran wormhole, donned his new uniform (which would take a little time to break in), and taken time to peruse the details of his new assignment. And the details were quite lurid. She was a new class, but she was already loaded down with baggage. Then again, so was Ian. How he'd managed to rate such an assignment, along with a two-grade promotion, was beyond him.

Given, if he hadn't broken the Prime Nuisance and disobeyed orders, Murphy would probably be up to Lieutenant Commander and have his choice of postings on whatever sort of science vessel he wanted, but he couldn't change the past. Now he was best off trying not to dwell within it so much. So, it was time to make a new start. Good start, right foot forward. Ella would have wanted that for him.

So now he was waiting outside of Customs, looking at the faces that passed him by and occasionally checking the personnel file on his PaDD. Because he wasn't going to be the only Science officer coming aboard the Elysium, and one of the officers who would be joining him was a newly-minted ensign. If nothing else, his time on Jupiter Station had taught him to be scrupulous and meticulous in cataloging information and managing assets.

"That looks like some fairly heavy reading, Ensign," a deep voice said from behind and above T'Saralonde, referring to the monograph on her PADD. The timbre the owner of the voice was attempting to project was what T'Saralonde had come to define as 'suave.' Were she human, she would have audibly sighed. Instead, she began one of a number of established logical approaches she had discovered that were effective in disarming the motive behind the 'suaveness.'

The first thing she did, when she turned around to address the owner of a voice, was brush the hair away from one of her pointed ears. For a human woman, this action could be interpreted as coquettish. For T'Saralonde, it was emphasizing that her actions would be dictated by cogent motives.

"Indeed, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde responded to the owner of the voice, a human male wearing a red tunic under his uniform jacket and a look on his face that was a mixture of surprise, chagrin and dumbfoundedness. "It is a response to an article I recently co-authored in the Journal of Daystrom Institute entitled "Asymptotic Behaviour for the Kolesov-T'Saralonde Modes in Stellar-Dynamic Examinations, with Specific Applications to the Eminiar System."

"Applications to the Eminiarn---" the Lieutenant managed to stutter out, before T'Saralonde corrected him.

"Eminiar. Located in Star Cluster NGC 321. A fascinating study in nonlinear stability." Before she had a chance to continue, she spotted a face she recognized as her future department head on the Elysium. "You will forgive me, Lieutenant. As much as I would enjoy continuing this discourse, I must report to my superior on my new assignment."

"Yes, of course," the red tuniced Lieutenant answered, the relief on his face obvious. "Another time," he added as he beat a hasty retreat. T'Saralonde tucked her PADD under one arm, adjusted the strap of her travel bag, and made a beeline toward Lieutenant Ian Murphy.

"Lieutenant Murphy, I presume?" she asked.

"Ensign T'Saralonde." Murphy returned with a nod. He'd seen some of the exchange between the young ensign and the gent she'd given the brush-off, and found the expression on the young man's face to be priceless. "Well met, and welcome to Gamma Station. I trust your travels were pleasant and without incident?" He asked in a perfunctory manner. "Hotshot fly-boys on a bad approach vector notwithstanding." He added wryly with a nod in the fleeing Lieutenant's direction.

"Indeed, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde responded, looking up at the much taller human. "My passage was noneventful, and I appreciated the opportunity to supplement my knowledge of the Gamma Quadrant, as well as remain current on my academic correspondences." If T'Saralonde noticed her new superior's reference to her recent encounter, she made no mention of it. "I trust your journey was acceptable as well, Lieutenant?"

"More or less." Ian said, sidestepping an Andorian pushing a grav cart loaded down with several boxes. "It gave me time to put in some work on papers I never quite finished." Publishing was something he was dreadfully lax about. Mostly because it felt like, if he wasn't in the field, making the actual discoveries, then the work wasn't really his own. There was only so much you could test in computer simulations and lab recreations. "And to read up on what's been coming out of academia in this quadrant."

"I will admit that I have never understood the human concept of 'publish or perish,'" T'Saralonde responded, unconsciously moving out of the way of occasional foot traffic. "It presumes a goal other than the acquiring of knowledge and the timely dissemination of said knowledge to one's colleagues. Lieutenant, perhaps this discussion might be better held in a locale with less pedestrian activity. I believe I spotted an establishment nearby that dispenses various caffeinated beverages."

"I'd... Oh, yeah." Murphy said, interrupting himself as she suggested moving off to one of the cafes. "I know the place, he said, nodding in its direction and heading towards it. "Publishing's an old tradition, it's true, and some of the reasons for doing it are outmoded. Like trying to seek out monetary support, getting the credit for a discovery... But others are still valid. The most important one being putting your theories up for scrutiny by fellow scientists. If you are incorrect in your observations or methodologies, then it's a good thing to be called on it by your academic peers. It holds scientists to a standard of academic rigor. Imagine if they'd done that when the 'Fleet had its first flirtation with Transwarp, instead of keeping it all hush-hush."

"Peer review has been a long established tradition in Vulcan academia, and one that has proved its value repeatedly," T'Saralonde concurred, keeping step with the taller human, "Though as with all systems, it requires flexibility. In your world's history, there was resistance in your scientific community in accepting the ideas of Charles Darwin over those proposed by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. On my own world, scientists such as Sirensti and T'Kura faced opposition, even derision, from the collective scientific community when they put forth their theories on the possibility of time travel." As the pair entered the coffee shop, T'Saralonde's expression became one of concentration as she perused the number of choices on the board placed above and behind the servers. Both her eyebrows raised when she spotted a frozen beverage designated as a 'Raktajino Unicorn' listed on the menu board.

T'Saralonde suspected that, for the establishment be able to offer such a beverage, it had never had Klingon customers.

"After you, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde told Ian, gesturing for him to go before her in the line of customers.

Murphy briefly scanned the choices of beverages, an eyebrow lifting as he perused them, then ordered up a glass of carbonated Bolian tonic water, nodding while he stepped aside to allow T'Saralonde to order. "Well, the Tellarites have both of our worlds beat in that respect. Their world actually had civil wars over some theories on evolution, faster-than-light travel and such. That's what I call 'academic rigor.'" He said with a harsh chuckle. "However, my present focus for publishing is in the field of metallurgy, not the astro-sciences. The Elysium's not a dedicated science vessel, so our department will be more focused on documenting phenomena we come across for others to study."

T'Saralonde ordered a cup of plomeek tea. When the barista began to list a number of varieties, T'Saralonde cut him off, taking the choice of "traditional."

"There are advantages of being the first to discover a phenomena, not the least of which is recognizing that it is an occurrence that should be taken note of," T'Saralonde remarked. When their drinks were delivered, T'Saralonde pointed to a table on the edge of the cafe. "Will that seating suffice, Lieutenant?"

"Looks good to me." Murphy said, starting off in the direction of the table, and taking a seat. "Plomeek bubble tea? Have they ever had a Vulcan customer?" He asked as an aside, with a slight shake of his head. "I just hope that there isn't a stack of PADDs waiting on my desk when I get aboard. I'm given to understand that the Elysium's last mission took a great toll on her crew. Something to be conscious of when you embark. Also, I just hate the wastefulness of PADDs, which can hold megaquods of data, being used to hand off reports that barely take up a megabyte worth of memory. I suppose, since I'll be running the division, that I can put a stop to that sort of nonsense and make everyone use the internal mail system for sending memorandum." He said with a chuckle.

"I had an instructor at the Academy who once told me that even the logic of necessity can find it difficult to overcome the inertia of an established bureaucratic procedure," T'Saralonde answered, before carefully taking a sip of the plomeek tea she had been offered. There was a momentary look of mild surprise on her face before she took another sip.

Setting her cup down, she added, "In light of the fact that scientific endeavors may not always be the primary objective of our vessel, I was curious about how you might feel about alternative projects, Lieutenant."

"I spent the better part of a decade fighting red tape with a metaphorical butter knife. I'm hoping that I'll be able to finally slay the beast with my shiny new broadsword." Murphy mused with a smirk. "And I would have to know what the alternative projects were before signing off on them, but given that we're going to be on a vessel with more-than-ample facilities for scientific exploration, I'm pretty much willing to green-light anything as long as it doesn't interfere with mission objectives. You might have to wait until gamma shift to utilize the facilities to their fullest, but I'm usually flexible. After all, I have my own side projects that tend to keep me busy."

"While I was at the Vulcan Science Academy, I worked with a mathematician, Dr. Pelageya Kolesov," T'Saralonde began. "Her tensor equations describing the geometrical curvature of Sector 441 are a landmark creation. I assisted Dr. Kolesov in creating a method by which the magnetic topology of binary stars could be extrapolated with a minimum of data. The mathematical model we devised was designated the Kolesov-T'Saralonde mode. What I would like to do, Lieutenant, is create a virtual astrometrics lab in one of the ship's holosuites, and attempt to incorporate the Kolesov-T'Saralonde mode into the holographic astrometrics, to discover if this would create a practical increase in our astrometrics ability. I would want to run the virtual holographic astrometrics lab through several scenarios, including exploring various upgrade processes, while keeping you updated at various benchmark points." T'Saralonde gave as close to a Gallic shrug as a Vulcan could give. "Potentially an extended process that may not achieve it's ultimate goal. However, there is a quote, possibly apocryphal, that is attributed to the human inventor Thomas Edison: 'I have not failed 700 times. I have succeeded in proving that those 700 ways will not work.' I expect my proposed project will bear academic fruit, if not in the manner that I anticipate."

"I see only one small snag in the works." Murphy said, rubbing his fingers over the fine stubble on his chin. "That being that Holosuite time usually comes at a premium on a starship." He said, taking a sip of his fizzy drink. "Scheduling is usually run by someone in Ops. Availability is usually highest during Gamma shift and the earliest part of Alpha." He shrugged slightly. "That said, I'll sign off on it, but it all depends on whether Ops wants to part with the amount of time we're talking about. Also, if we don't have any mission-critical assignments to complete -- the mission always comes first. If we have no assignment, this sort of research can be your assignment. It'll be your responsibility to get Ops to schedule that time for you, and to choose a time that won't interfere with our regular duties."

"This is a long term project, Lieutenant," T'Saraonde explained, "That won't require any more additional holosuite scheduling than, say, that given to an enthusiast of a particular holonovel. A good deal of my project's initial development could be considered a nahp spolek. A gedankenerfahrung." T'Saralonde translated, then paused, her brows furrowing, before adding, "My apologies, Lieutenant. Gedankenerfahrung is a German phrase. Thought experiment was the phrase in Standard I was wanting to use. And the time periods you described will not be a problem. My sleep requirements are decidedly lower than my human counterparts."

"I understand that this will be a low priority enterprise, to be shelved when other duties present themselves," T'Saralonde continued. "A successful completion of my project would hardly increase the effectiveness of the astrometrics lab to the extent of what the Voyager accomplished. An optimistic projection would be an increased efficiency of approximately seven point two percent. Nonetheless, it is a project that I wish to pursue during nonduty hours, as well as during those times when I have no active assignments. I find it difficult to be inactive, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde explained to Ian.

"It's good that you're approaching it with this sort of pragmatism, Ensign." Ian said, taking out his PADD and making a few notations on it. "I'll expect a formal write-up of the proposal sent to my desk after we're underway, so I can sign off on it and submit it to the Captain and XO for final approval." Something that was usually a mere formality.

"On that note, I should be getting back to customs." He said, downing his drink in a few gulps, and then holding back the urge to belch from all the carbonation. "I have a few more officers to introduce myself to coming in on the Copernicus." setting down his drink, and wiping away the condensation on his hand, he offered it out in the non-committal sort of way that he had become accustomed to greeting Vulcans and other races who didn't normally shake hands. "It was pleasant meeting you, Ensign."

Like Lieutenant Murphy, T'Saralonde had encountered numerous species who extended greetings and farewells in a variety of fashions, with most of them very dissimilar to her own Vulcan tradition. Kol-Ut-Shan required her to reply in like manner, whenever possible. T'Saralonde eyed the proffered hand momentarily, before extending her own hand to shake it. "I look forward to serving with you, sir," she added solemnly, before releasing her superior's hand.

Murphy nodded and walked off, covering his mouth with his hand as he walked to let out a soft belch. He was always a little wary of working with new people, but T'saralonde seemed to be competent and dependable. Now, if only all the rest of the officers in his division were as solid. Because Murphy was rusty and had a huge blemish on his career. Ha would need solid pillars to shore things up until he settled in... Or was replaced.

[OFF]

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - We wish you a Merry Experiment and a Happy New Theory

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar & Ensign T'Saralonde

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Astrometrics Lab

Timeline:

Arri was in her unofficial sanctuary once again. The last week had been harrowing, and she was simply staring at the beauty that was space just to calm herself. She still thought she heard the sounds of Borg drones at times, but those turned out to be fragments of the temporal intrusion. Easily purged by meditation. She continued to chart several nearby star systems using the long range sensors. It was relaxing to her in a way.

T'Saralonde's time at the Academy had taught her a number of facts that most of her people would consider counter-intuitive, but which were nonetheless true. One was that an individual carrying a PADD in her hand was assumed to be busier than one who was not.

For her current task, T'Saralonde did not need a PADD. She had a number of simple tasks to accomplish in astrometrics, at which point she could retire to a reserved holosuite, where she could begin her self-assigned task in earnest.

The PADD contained the necessary data she needed, but it was an unnecessary redundancy. Nevertheless, T'Saralonde had long discovered the mere presence of PADD in her hand often allowed her to pursue her various academic projects undisturbed, at least among nonVulcans.

T'Saralonde entered Astrometrics to find the lab already in use by a Lieutenant from Operations.

"My apologies, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde immediately offered. "I was unaware that the astrometrics lab was in use." The Vulcan paused before asking. "Perhaps I might return shortly, Lieutenant? I require approximately five minutes in the lab."

Arrianna turned around. "Not necessary, Ensign. I was merely doing charting scans, which can easily be rescheduled for later." She noted. "I like coming in here, it relaxes me, and this is something of a hobby of mine. So why do you need the lab?"

"I have a personal project, concerning the possibility of incorporating the electromagnetic topology of binary stars into the mapping process," T'Saralonde explained. "I need to duplicate a select number of data bases and processes to a holosuite program I've developed. From there, I can conduct a virtual assessment of the practicality of incorporating my idea, and thus whether it is worthwhile to present my proposal to Lieutenant Murphy and other members of the senior staff."

Arri was intrigued. "Fascinating... I am very much interested in assisting with your project. If I may ask. I could ask my people's college of scholars to send you data we've collected, in this regard, of many EM anomalies my people have encountered during the long exile. It should aid you in your research."

"I would appreciate that assistance, Lieutenant. I have conducted research in this area during my tenure at the Vulcan Science Academy. This would, however, be my first opportunity to attempt a practical application of my past studies," T'Saralonde observed. "Forgive me, Lieutenant, for failing to properly identify myself. Ensign T'Saralonde," the Vulcan began, assuming a more formal stance as she extended her hand, "Science officer, newly assigned to the Elysium, newly commissioned."

"There is nothing to forgive, Ensign, and it is a pleasure." Arri mentioned. "We can use this lab to create a profile of the EM Spectrum of the Stellar Topology we wish to map. Lets see..."

"Perhaps the Idran system could be used as the epicenter of an expanding profile," T'Saralonde suggested. "In addition to the Idran system itself, there are several binary and trinary systems in the vicinity that have been sufficiently studied so as to serve as a baseline. Such information would prove useful as my project develops. However, I initially wanted to investigate the success rate of the programming involved in the astrometric lab's creation of assumption free vector magnetic field maps with varying degrees of data. From there, I would use the data you have suggested to test the validity of my proposition when it is..." T'Saralonde paused, trying to remember the phrase for the practical application of a theoretical technique that her human colleagues were fond of using "...'plugged in."

Arri smiled softly. "Interesting choice of words, Ensign." She was quite fond of this woman. Arri seemed quite stolic at first, but she allowed emotions at the right time, and not the wrong types of passions. "I will begin configuring the long range sensors for the Idran system."

"I appreciate that, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde replied solemnly. "Since the Idran system, and particularly FGC-1215, is the most documented multiple star system in the Gamma Quadrant, it should be suitable for the stated goal. If you have no objections, Lieutenant, while you begin configuring for the scan, I will begin transferring the computation data to my own program."

Arri nodded began her configurations. Typing them into the computer at a respectably rapid pace.

T'Saralonde began her own data transfer, her hands operating independently on two different panels. After four minutes, she looked at the okudagrams above each entry point and nodded curtly to herself. T'Saralonde picked up her PADD and made another entry. Discovering that holosuite on Deck Nine was available, she immediately reserved it for her own use.

"Lieutenant, if I may take my leave," T'Saralonde began, "There is a holosuite currently available, and I would like to begin assimilating the transferred data to the holoprogram I have designed to conduct tests on my proposals."

"Excellent Ensign, and it was a privilege to meet you, and be of assistance." She mentioned.

"My appreciation on both points as well, Lieutenant," T'Saralonde responded, before taking her leave.

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Little Gunner Boy

A Mission Post by Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location:

Timeline: Current - Will adjust

ON

Lia entered the armoury and looked around, unlike a weapons locker there were many more weapons and many more types. She saw someone standing behind a shelving unit, "Lieutenant? It is Lieutenant Salannis an Vantar? Commander Holmes, here for a inventory check". She hoped she was in the right place, wouldn't be the first time she'd turned up in the wrong location.

Arrianna entered carrying two weapons cases, one was a plain case for a Type II Phaser and a Pulse Phaser Rifle. Another was far more intricately decorated. "Alindari names have a unique structure. For example I am Arrianna of House Salannis of the vessel Vantar of the exile fleet. However my people are no longer exiles." She placed the case on the desk for inspection. "When we were in the holodeck, we both were not in the best of moods. I'm here for you to inspect my weapons."

The Lieutenant's response caused Lia to stop and think, "Ah yeah, right. I'll try and remember that, can we continue this later. Now then lets start this inspection".

She opens the plain case. "One Type IIB Hand Phaser, Operating within regulation. One Type IVA Pule Phaser Rifle Carbine. Also withing regulation." She noted.

Picking both weapons up, Lia checked them for damage. Noting none she then looked at the power settings, she then changed them to insure their operation. "They seem to be fine Lieutenant, what's in that ornate case?"

Arri opened the decorated case to reveal an intricate and beautiful saber. She picks it up carefully. "This is one of a kind. Five hundred years old." She balances it. "And one Alindari Crystal Saber. As light as a feather, and as hard as forged steel." She noted. "There is only twenty-seven of these left, and the knowledge to forge them is gone."

Knowing swords as she does, Lia is entranced by what she is shown. "Is this a family heirloom?" She wanted to hold the sword, but knew that unless she was offered the chance that would be impossible. Taking a deep breath Lia turned to continue her inspection, but that saber was the business as far as she was concerned.

"In a way, yes. It was what kept my ancestor alive as Alindar burned around him." Arri noted, "And it survived a journey of forty thousand light-years. We believe that our ancient smiths used a polycarbon recompositation method to arrange complex carbons, into a very dense perfect edge."

Lia nodded in response, "Is it difficult to use? Most swords have their own foibles, my own broadsword needs careful handling at first". She knew hers wasn't as old, but it was hand made for her. She spotted a weapon nestling in a box laying on the floor, "What's that rifle over there? It looks different to what we normally use?"

"A crystal saber takes a lifetime to master. Our children practice with toy sabers in the basic moves before the reach thirteen. And that includes the comprehensive mental and physical development my people give our children." Arri noted. "Alindari are a race of Academics."

Well that ruled out holding the sabre, so she pointed at the rifle in the box on the ground. "Sounds like very intense training, but back to our inspection. The rifle in the box, what is it and why is it here?" She bent down and picked it up, "This is heavy, and dangerous. It appears to be an old earth type weapon, American probably 19th century". She replaced it carefully back in it's box, "Who is the owner of that weapon?"

Arri examined it. "These are not mine. Projectile weapons fell out of favor even during the time of the warlords. The noise they made was loud, which gives ones position away in combat. There must be a collector on board. I own the Type II, the Type IV, and my saber."

"Well Lieutenant, they are here with your weapons. Which makes me wonder why?" She moved back towards the door, "The type II and IV pass, the saber I can't comment on officially. Everything else is now up in the air, if they aren't yours then who's?"

Arri spoke. "I can extract skin fragments or hair from the weapon and run a genetic comparison."

Lia nodded, "Ok then, I'll leave that in your hands. Inform me of the results when you get them, good luck Lieutenant". She stood out side for a moment then headed for the bridge, oO Who the hell would have a Winchester rifle hidden on board? Oo She thought.

Off:

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Never Again

A Mission Post by Senior Chief Petty Officer Ken Waters & Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Lalor's Quarters

Timeline: A couple of days before Christmas. Late in the evening.

Ken Waters took in a breath. Perhaps the longest breath of his life.

And he exhaled.

When his lungs were empty, he lifted his hand and stabbed a finger at the door chime next to the doors leading to the captain's cabin. He breathed another nervous sigh, rubbed his hands over one another, and he waited for Phoenix Lalor to answer.

The door opened and Phoenix stood there still in her uniform, but her jacket was unzipped and open, revealing her red undershirt. "Hi" she said brightly with a warm smile. "Come in."

Ken looked down at his boots, like a child scolded. Another deep breath. And he looked back at her. "Penelope, we need to talk."

Phoenix stared for a moment and then stepped back. "Ok... come in..." She said as her stomach dropped a bit.

He nodded. Swallowed. And he followed her into her quarters. When the doors closed behind him, he wasted no time in reaching down to take her hands in his. He ran his thumbs along her knuckles. He couldn't help himself. The touch of her was something he could never have enough of. Ever since the first time they had kissed, her very presence could make his nerves tingle. She had sworn it wasn't some Erisian trait of hers, but he never quite believed her. Even when they made love, he would hold her afterwards until they fell asleep, and he would drown in an impossible sparkling haze...

But he knew that this, this touch, might be the last time. He kissed her now.

"Penelope," he said, cutting into his own thoughts. "I love you." He nodded at his own words, nearly choking them out. There were tears in his eyes as he looked into hers. "I don't know if I've ever told you that before. I should have said a thousand times by now. I. Love. You."

Half dazed by the kiss, Phoenix looked up into his eyes. "I love you as well. What's wrong Ken?"

He shook his head, and a tear fell. "I can't do this anymore. I can't not be there for you because of Prophet-forsaken Starfleet regulations. I can't watch you get kidnapped, or threatened, or attacked, or nearly killed while I sit by and dutifully tap away at a console like a good little crewman. I thought I could separate my job from my relationship, but I can't. On this last mission, when I heard that you were beaming over to that derelict ship -- it took everything in me to not chase you down to that transporter room and beg you to stay. When that creature came aboard...Penne, that was the last time I'll ever be able to watch you get hurt while I stay at my post and do nothing about it."

She listened silently and then slowly stepped back, putting a bit of distance between him. This sounded a lot like a break up discussion. "We are both fully trained starfleet personnel Ken. By definition our jobs are dangerous. I ... can't change my job." she trailed off in a whisper.

He reached out to her, took a hold of her forearms. "Your devotion to your job is one of the things that made me fall in love with you," he told her. "Your sense of honor and duty are a big part of what makes you who you are. And -- I'm not here to ask you to change. I would never do that."

"But?" she asked softly. "There is a but at the end of that sentence isn't there?"

He let his grip slip away from her. "But I can't change myself either. For all of my life, I have been able to protect the people I love. Directly. No military protocol to follow. Just a gun in my hand and a fire in my gut," he said. "I am trying to play by the rules on your ship, Penne. But every time something happens to you, I come that much closer to getting myself -- and all of us -- in a lot of bureaucratic trouble. One of these days they're going to end up throwing me in the brig for abandoning my post and murdering the next son of a bitch that tries to kidnap you."

Phoenix blinked rapidly, blinking back the sudden sting of tears. "So... what are you going to do then?" She asked carefully.

Seeing her distress was enough to crumble the walls he had so pitifully tried to raise. His eyes reddened with swelling tears, and he bit his lip. "I think we've only got two real options here. Either I get off of the Elysium and we do this thing long distance." His next words came painfully slow, each one a sentence. "Or. We. Don't. Do. This. Anymore."

Oh she couldn't. She stepped back even further from him, "I can't.. I won't do long distance.. not from you Ken. If you want to end this, then we end it. Here and now. I won't be waiting night in and night out for comm calls from wherever posting you end up. I can't do that. I know myself well enough to know that I would not be able to handle that. So,that leaves your second choice." Phoenix took a breath. "I... think that would be best then..." She refused to cry but her eyes were filling with tears and she dashed a hand across her eyes angrily, more angry at herself and the situation then at him.

Ken took a step toward her again, but he thought better of reaching for her. From the look in her eyes, he didn't know how she'd react if he tried to touch her right now. "Phoenix, please. You have to understand that I don't want to do this. This is the last thing I want. The last thing." He swallowed. "I'm doing this BECAUSE I love you. You get that, right?"

"I get it." Came her reply. She focused on the carpet at her feet. "I get it that my job is too dangerous for us to be together without you loosing your cool. Please... Ken... Please just...go please."

Ken sniffled. His breathing came in quick starts. He wanted to say a thousand things to her. A million. Maybe he could try to change her mind after all. Maybe he could just yell at her, so that she would scream at him, and then all of this would feel so much easier. After a slow exhale he trusted himself enough to speak. "You'll, um...you'll let Miran know. I mean. You'll tell her that I didn't want this to happen this way..." He stopped himself, nodded. "Of course you'll talk to her. That was stupid of me. I don't even know what I'm saying right now."

He stepped out from her quarters, into the corridor.

"Take care of yourself, Phoenix."

The doors closed behind him, leaving her there. Alone.

Phoenix counted slowly to twenty in her own language as the door slid shut. Once she had done that, she turned, "Computer lock the door." And headed for her bedroom to be alone. She needed to be alone. Alone where she could think things through. And calm herself enough to mask the hurt deep down.

=/\=

Episode 5: Deck the Halls – Forever

A Mission Post by Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: SB Gamma

Timeline: The day after ‘Never Again’

Liselle Qwyyn stood outside the airlock that connected Starbase Gamma to the Elysium. She was waiting for the ship's Captain, Commander Phoenix Lalor, to join her for a casual walk around the promenade. It was something that Liselle had been desperately looking forward to, to spend some quality personal time with her closest friend.

And that, of course, reminded her specifically of the surprise she had planned for the Commander.

Qwyyn had absolutely no idea how Phoenix would react. The surprise was once a fun idea, but now that the moment was almost here she worried that it was probably a bad one. Yet ever since the notion had first popped into her mind she hand't been able to shake it. And now here they were back on Starbase Gamma, and at Christmas time. Everything was too perfect to not try and make it happen.

Phoenix came all but running down the halls. She grinned at Liselle. "Hey!" she said brightly skidding to a stop. The CO was out of uniform and wearing her typical off duty clothes of grey slacks and a green blouse with low ankle boots. "Lets go before security catch up and we wind up with an escort!"

Liselle's grin cracked into a full smile, a mile wide. She shook her head at her friend, even as the pair began their accelerated stroll. Like her captain, Qwyyn had opted for civilian clothes, though she was much more festive in her garb: red tights and a green sweater so large that the sleeves covered her hands. The Trill's utter delight at the sight of Phoenix did not fade for even a moment. "If only Admiral Sharr could see you now."

Phoenix crinkled her nose for a moment. "He'd want to take his ship back I am sure." She linked her arm through her friends. "So ideas on where we are going?" she asked.

Qwyyn bit her top lip. A laugh nearly escaped her, despite her own nervousness. "I had this crazy idea. This really, really crazy idea. And if you're not into it, I'll understand. But -- well -- are you into the whole Christmas thing?"

Phoenix gave a shrug slightly. "Its interesting. I do like the decorations and the ability to give gifts that are not on a birthday.."

Liselle shook her head, shrugging as she did so. "I love this time of year, Phoenix. I don't know what it is. Ever since I went to Earth for flight school I absolutely fell in love with all of the lights and all of the songs and the smells and the food. It's just so wonderfully, impossibly magical," she said. She sighed then, happily. "Naturally, I wanted to get you something. That's pretty much my favorite part. And so I spent a long time thinking about this. So -- well -- just -- you can say no. To this. To my idea. Of course you can. But just promise to hear me out, okay?"

"I will hear you out" The Erisian replied with a smile. "What have you got planned Lise?"

Liselle winked at her. "We're here." She gave Phoenix a tug toward one of the shops off to their right. There were stark Orion letters etched on a steel sign hanging above the establishment. Below that rather large alien writing, in smaller Federation standard, were the words:

Tattoo Parlor.

Liselle raised up a hand to her friend. "Hold on!" she said before waiting on Phoenix's reaction. "You promised you'd hear me out." She wasted no time in reaching into her pocket and pulling out a small PADD. She held it out for her friend to see. It was an absolutely beautiful drawing of the mythical Phoenix bird rising up from the flames that had failed to fully consume it. "Humans have this very interesting saying: Maybe in another lifetime," Qwyyn explained. "It's a very sad, and depressing statement about the things that could never be. But we joined Trill have a much more hopeful twist on it. You know that I have had, and will have, many lifetimes. My symbiont's friendships can last forever." Qwyyn tapped the picture. "You see, the fire beneath the Phoenix is actually Trillian writing. That's my name -- Qwyyn. And over here in the smoke, the Erisian and Trill characters for 'sister' -- Miran helped me with that -- and this part over here, this is Trill again. It says 'In every lifetime.'"

Phoenix smiled at her best friend and gently touched her shoulder. "Ok. Lets do this.." She glanced around. "Not Miran though right?"

Qwyyn was positively read to jump out of her skin with excitement. "You're in? You're really in!?" she nearly squealed. With a deep breath she managed to steady herself. "And don't worry. Not Miran."

Phoenix nodded. "I am really in. Shall we?"

Liselle was positively beaming as she walked into the tattoo parlor with Phoenix at her side. A rather well tattooed Bajoran woman rose from a stool at an empty station to greet them. "Well if it isn't miss Qwyyn again," she said with a nod to Liselle. She turned to Phoneix. "This her?"

Qwyyn nodded, her excitement plain. "She's in!"

The Bajoran woman clapped her hands together. "Outstanding," she said -- though her tone did not convey the same enthusiasm as the word she had chosen. "Name's Rayma. A pleasure. Now, miss Lalor, exactly where on that lovely flesh of yours are we getting you two inked?"

Phoenix thought about it a moment. "Shoulder blade. Right Shoulder blade."

"Outstanding," Rayma said dryly again. She extended a hand to a nearby chair, already reclined into the proper position. "Take off the shirt, and seat yourself so that I can get to work. I do this in the proper traditional Bajoran style, real ink into real skin. It'll just take a few minutes for each of you, and then you'll be back to saving the galaxy," she assured them. Rayma reached over to her counter and fetched her supplies. As she turned back to them, she snapped on a pair of white latex gloves. "Now. Who's first?"

Phoenix looked at Liselle. "Your idea," she said calmly. "You go first."

Liselle crossed her arms at her waist and pulled her sweater up and over her head. She took a seat, sitting in the chair backwards so that her chest pressed up against its back. Rayma brought up the image she was meant to ink on the Trill's back, and she immediately set to work. As her needles buzzed against Qwyyn's skin, the Bajoran spoke to Phoenix. "What ship you two from?"

"Elysium" Phoenix said, mentally glad, that in an attempt to feel better, she had worn her best underwear. "Just on R&R while the ship resupplies."

"The Elyisum!" Rayma's eyebrows popped for a moment. "Oh, I've worked on some of your crew. In fact, there's this one guy aboard who asked for the weirdest design on his -- " Rayma gestured to the unspoken location on her own body. "Beautiful piece. The design, I mean. Well 'the piece' was alright, too. Now what was his name again? Oh right!" She stopped herself suddenly. Shook her head. "Actually, I probably shouldn't say his name. You'd never look at him the same way again."

Phoenix wondered who it had been but just smiled faintly in response.

"And we're done!" Rayma announced, lifting her needle away. "What do you think?"

Qwyyn stood up from the chair, covering herself with the sweater she held clutched in her hand. She turned herself to the nearby mirror and studied the design over her shoulder. "Gods. It's beautiful. Absolutely beautiful."

Rayma lifted her arms, and gave her a wink. "You paid for the best. And that's what you get," she said proudly. She turned to Phoenix. "Alright, lady. You're up. Shirt off. Butt in chair, please."

Phoenix did so and took a seat, and winced when she remembered the scars on her back and how bad they probably looked.

The Bajoran set her jaw as she saw what she easily recognized as whipping marks on her client's back. Without hesitation, Rayma placed her tattooing needle onto the nearby table and she set her fingers against Phoenix's scars. She closed her eyes. "Vora prell ta nos. Vora ka yana mo. Vora tae nota va. Yi sana oud noom. Yi ma. Yi tana," she whispered. She breathed silently. Opened her eyes again.

Catching Liselle's puzzled expression, Rayma hesitated as she gathered up her tools once again to begin her work. "A prayer to the Prophets," she said simply, and she did not elaborate any further. She leaned forward, however, and placed her lips to Phoenix's ear. "Forever they think they can. Forever they are wrong. Forever we stand tall. We who have suffered their lashes. We sisters. We remember."

And without another word, Rayma set to work.

When she was finished, she leaned back on her stool and wiped her brow with the back of her hand. "Finished," she proclaimed. She rose up to her feet and clasped her hands together. "What do you think?"

Phoenix stood, and looked over her shoulder into the mirror and smiled. "Perfect like before." She said to Rayma. She slid her shirt back on. "Thank you. Thank you very much." She looked at Liselle. "How much?"

Rayma held up her hand. "On the house," she said. "I insist. The Elysium has given me a lot of business over the years. And I like you two. Just promise me you'll send any other potential clients my way."

"Of course" Phoenix said with a smile, "Thank you again." Turning she looked at Liselle. "Where to next?"

Qwyyn's eyes widened. "Honestly, I was so nervous about this moment I hadn't even considered anything else. Did you have something in mind?"

"The nearest bar," Phoenix said as they walked out the door with a final wave to Rayma. "I need a drink."

Liselle smiled, and hooked her arm in Phoenix's own. "Lead the way."

OFF

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Macking in a Winter Wonderland

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar & Lieutenant Ian Murphy

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Holodeck, Ice Skating Ring

Timeline: Current

Arri continued to skate in what appeared to be a ice skating ring in a quaint winter village within the holodeck. She was trying to get it down. She was nowhere near as skilled as some of the Olympic skaters that she admired in the holodeck, but she was putting effort into it.

She just had to practice though.

Peering inside the holodeck, Murphy felt a cold breeze brush his nose and face. He had no idea why the Holodeck's entrance had been left open -- maybe it was part of the Christmas theme that the captain had in place on the ship. Being a self-proclaimed man of science, Ian didn't subscribe to any belief system that embraced the Earth's winter holidays, although he did enjoy some winter sports. Following his ears to the sounds of metal grinding against ice, he came across the rink and Arrianna skating across it. "Computer, play Boadicea by Gurrarl and Ferenz." It was a remake of an ancient Earth song that consisted of humming by two Caitians (who really could nail the throat vibratto), and it seemed to match the movements of the woman skating there. Might as well enjoy the sight with some good Celtic-inspired music.

Arri was in her comfort zone, until the music came on from nowhere which made her jump and loose her balance. She hit the ice on her side, but the holo-safeties intervened and caught her. She looked up at Ian.

"Aw, crap." Murphy said, hopping the partition of the rink and shuffling his way across the ice carefully to where Arri landed, his feet slipping with each movement, but managing to stay upright. "Didn't mean to break your concentration. I thought you were part of the simulation." Because the quaint village setting reminded him of some of the open-entry holo-settings that were being developed at Jupiter Station. He widened his stance and bent down, offering her his hands. "Are you okay?" Murphy could be an asshole, but that didn't mean he lacked common decency or chivalry.

Arri stared at him. "You can't tell a sentient from a hologram? My my, where did you get your education?" Usually when one of her people mocked another's education, it was a potent insult.

Murphy withdrew one of his hands, but not the other. "Why, Starfleet Academy, and a few correspondence classes with the Vulcan Science Academy for my Doctorate. And no, I can't tell a hologram from a sentient just by looking. That's kinda the point." The rejoinder was mild to say the least, because he was somewhat at fault for her fall... But she was skating on thin ice with his forbearance. But then he decided to switch tactics. "Besides, with such grace and beauty as your own, it was difficult to believe you were real." He offered with a smile, putting that gift of Irish gab to use.

She took the hand and pulled herself up. "And for all I know, you could be one of these holographic fantasies, who went to Starfleet Academy and to the Vulcan Science Academy. I'm sure that was quite interesting to be an island of passion in a sea of logic."

"Indeed." Ian responded with an ironically raised eyebrow, checking to see that she was steady on her feet before releasing her hand. "And, In the present age of growing photonic awareness, we could both be holodeck fantasies with histories and personalities that could seem very real to us, but exist as nothing more than impulses traveling through a gel pack. You aren't hurt, are you?"

"Only my pride." Arri noted with a slight smile. "Lets test your hypothesis, I'll say 'computer end program,' and we'll see who's real and who's not. Because I find it hard to believe that we are Boltzmann brains." She noted.

"Why?" Ian asked quizzically. "Mind you, I'm all in favor of the scientific process, but why shatter a pleasant illusion? Or would that be something a simulated sentience would say to save its 'skin?'" He mused, then shook his head. "I'm given to understand that your last mission was a literal slice of hell. Aaaand it's not going to get much better with me aboard, believe me. But there's doubtlessly somewhere around this simulation with hot chocolate or a beverage of your choice, and a natural hot spring that doesn't smell too sulfurous." He waggled his brows playfully at her. He had been a moment away from cutting her to literal pieces with the sharp edge of his tongue, but had somehow turned things around.

Arrianna smiled and offered him her hand. "It would be my pleasure to share a mug of Hot Chocolate. I know of a Skii lodge not far in this program." He was kinda cute in a way, definitely engaging.

Wow, really? Ian thought to himself. He had been celibate for several years after the death of his wife, and even when he finally broke that streak on a trip to Risa, he had felt like he was cheating on her memory. So, he wasn't accustomed to flirting, or even being good at it. He took her hand and brought it up to his lips, kissing the back of it. "Sounds great. I'm Murphy, by the way. New Chief Science Officer, at your service. I didn't actually mean to intrude, by the way... I got lost looking for my office. And an open door is an invitation."

"I am Arrianna Salannis an Vantar," She noted, "and I am the Chief of Operations here on the Elysium." She entered the skii lodge with him. "I do apologize if I seemed irritated. I was startled, though I did leave the holodeck door open if anyone wanted to join. I suppose it's still an after effect of our recent encounter." She poured him a hot chocolate.

"Completely understandable." Murphy responded, taking the mug and looking into her eyes. "If it's any consolation, I did appreciate your skating. It was very... Graceful. I already said that, but it's true. Watching you skate was quite calming. I would have joined you, but I'm not exactly good at it. Bambi on the ice comes to mind." He added with a soft chuckle. It was entirely possible that she wouldn't get that reference, given how unusual her name was, but then, all the Disney classics had been given several dozen adaptations in the past centuries, including at least two holonovels.

"I am also an amateur, though I can show you what I've learned sometime," she noted,"and I'm thankful for the holo-safeties however, otherwise I would have the bruises and wounds to show off." She mentioned. "You are the Chief Science Officer here. I majored in Science at the Academy." She noted with a warm smile. "I believe we will be working together closely."

"I'll remember to take you up on that sometime." Ian said. Good lord, what brought this all about? And, of course, he knew what had. A little side trip he took to Bajor before catching the ride to Starbase Gamma. "I don't think we should work too closely together. I can't imagine getting any work done at all if I spend all my time getting lost in your eyes."

"What does that mean?" Arri noted. "'Too closely?' I wonder if your eyes need to be examined?" It just came out, a moment of fiery impulse. In reality she found him quite attractive, even cute.

"Oh, quite probably. They keep seeing things that my brain knows can't possibly exist." He teased back. "But I digress. Tell me about yourself, Arrianna. You say you majored in science, but you're in Ops. Now, the way I remember, Ops is the fast track to command. Like, an easy hop to second officer, then XO, and maybe one tour later, they're fitting your bottom for the center seat."

Arri thought a moment and spoke. "Wouldn't you be interested in command, Lieutenant?"

"No way, uh-uh, not one little bit. Not even a dedicated science vessel like a Nova or Luna." Murphy said, taking a sip of the hot chocolate and then blowing across the surface of the liquid. It was still a little too hot to be more than sipped. "Besides, the Fleet would never trust me that far. And what about you? I'm not wrong, am I?"

"Not to worry, you can be my executive officer and fetch my tea." Arri said playfully.

"You should be in Flight Control." Murphy mused with a laugh. "I've never seen someone with your skill for evasion. But I think I have enough to go on to form a solid hypothesis. So, where are you from?" He asked. "Your name sounds exotic, but I can't place it. Nor your accent, for that matter."

"I am an Alindari. We have a colony in the Typhon Expanse." She smiled. "We are a peaceful society, we prefer to improve ourselves through the acquisition of knowledge, wisdom. The Alindari are a race of academics." She smiled. "We value all knowledge and wisdom."

Murphy kept his eyes on hers as she spoke, his grin more or less matching her own. "Well, you probably know more than you could ever want to know about my race, being in Starfleet. Reckless, brash, unruly... Passionate." This last comment was a callback to her comment about him being an island of passion amongst Vulcan academics. "And terribly cheesy at times." He added, a bit self-deprecatingly.

Arri nodded with a smile. "But humans, and the federation did something that compelled me to sign up for Starfleet the moment I was told about it; you defeated the Borg, not just once, but twice." She noted. "Ian, there is a reason there are about fifty thousand of my people left. The Borg razed the old Alindari Imperium to the ground, and like the El-Aurians, and many others, we were scattered to the far corners of the galaxy.

At the mention of the Borg and their conquest of Arrianna's people, Murphy took a long sip of the cocoa, swallowing it down with a frown. "I'll be honest, I don't know how long we can keep winning against the Borg, save the fact that we have a small grace period before they can get their transwarp hub back online. But we'll fight them for each inch of space they try to take."

"Victory will not come through our fleets, or our armies." Arri noted. "I've studied all of Starfleet's engagements with the Borg, and have concluded that Starfleet finds ways to exploit weaknesses in the Borg's single minded train of thought that they no longer have the ability to understand nor prepare against. And when they try to understand it, it confounds the collective. That is how one wins against the Borg."

"This is true. The Borg don't generally think creatively -- Their only way of doing so is to assimilate those that do." Murphy agreed with a nod. "They rely on pure numbers and attrition to do most of their work. Which is why the Dominion had much more luck than they did, and caused far more damage. I just find it wise to remain cautious and expect escalation. But, enough of that. " He said, taking a last sip of his hot chocolate and setting it down. "I should probably go find my office before Starbase Gamma transports the shipment of live lab animals I ordered aboard. Perhaps we can meet up another time, and I can talk you into going to those hot springs? I could sand off these callouses..." he said, holding up one grizzled, knobby-jointed hand. "And maybe offer you a little relaxing massage?"

Arri smiled warmly, "That sounds wonderful. I should go. My new Assistant Chief of Operations should be coming aboard soon."

Murphy reached out to take hold of her hand, kissing the back of it again. Because, despite being an utter cad sometimes, there was still a hint of a gentleman left inside. "I will be in touch soon." He was tempted to see if he could steal a kiss from her, but didn't. "Until then, farewell Arrianna." He said, stepping back, giving a nod of his head, and leaving the ski lodge.

Off:

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - 2 (Not) Broke Girls

A Mission Post by Ensign Genevieve Harrigan & Ensign T'Saralonde

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Personal Quarters, T'Saralonde/Genevieve Harrigan

Timeline: MD1 2200

T'Saralonde studied the single picture she had brought on board the Elysium. It consisted of a rectangle containing three circles, each circle equal to the others in size, with the outer circles being tangent with one of the sides of the rectangle, and the center circle being tangent at a single point with the two outer circles. A diagonal line run through the rectangle, with the portion of the rectangle below the line and outside the intersected circles shaded in red. In the lower right corner of the painting, the problem was described in immaculately inscribed kanji.

There was a more than adequate place in the common room of her shared quarters to place the picture, but T'Saralonde had refrained from doing so. Not having met the other junior officer whom she would be sharing her quarters with, it seemed the judicious thing was to wait to discuss the matter with said roommate.

As if on cue, a chime signaled the presence of someone outside her quarters.

"Enter," T'Saralonde replied.

A tall redheaded ensign (at least twelve centimeters taller than T'Saralonde), two travel bags in either hand, entered the room. The young woman in question was wearing the yellow of Operations and a casual observer, even after a few seconds, would probably consider the redhead the living embodiment of 'vivaciousness.'

The redhead scanned the quarters for a few seconds before turning her attention to T'Saralonde. A broad smile appeared on the redhead's face as she set her bags down and raised her right hand. T'Saralonde, assuming that the redhead was going to shake her hand, prepared to extend her own.

Instead, the redhead lifted her right hand and formed her fingers into a "V." With a solemn countenance, she added, "Dif tor heh smusma."

Arching her right eyebrow slightly, T'Saralonde raised her right hand in the same gesture, replying, "Live long and prosper." Lowering her hand, she added, "Your pronunciation was very well done. Do you speak Vulcan?"

The redhead shook her head, a grin returning to her face. "Just a few words. But I always thought it was just a little too sociocentric to expect every one I serve with to shake my hand, just because that's how it's done among humans. And then there's ih-dihk," the redhead provided.

"Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations," T'Saralonde provided.

The redhead nodded. "Meaning that not only do you learn how others do thing, you do so without the condescending attitude that you're learning the other's way of doing things just to placate them."

T'Saralonde tilted her head to one side and nodded. "An unorthodox way of expressing the tenets of the philosophy, but accurate. I am Ensign T'Saralonde, science officer."

"Ensign Genevieve Harrigan, but please call me Jenn," the redhead answered. "And I remember you. You graduated a year behind me."

"Ensign Harrigan. Jenn," T'Saralonde corrected herself. "I remember you as well. Your conjectures on the perceived limits of provability in formal axiomatic theories were fascinating."

Jenn ducked her head and blushed. "Thank you. Most people tend to remember me for leading the Academy's Parrises Squares team to its first championship year in more than a decade. Mind if we take a seat?"

T'Saralonde nodded and the two took seats in the common area.

"By the by, is that...oh, what's the word, Naskagu?" Jenn asked, pointing to the painting T'Saralonde had left leaning against the wall.

"Sangaku," T'Saralonde corrected. "A form of art utilizing geometry or mathematical theorems, and left a the entrance of religious buildings. It originated on your planet in the nation-state of Japan, perhaps as early as early fifteenth century. That painting is my attempt to emulate the art form."

"It is intriguing," Jenn replied. "Perhaps we could hang it on that spot in the entrance area?" she added, pointing to the spot T'Saralonde had been studying earlier.

"I had intended the broach the possibility. My thanks for being so readily agreeable," T'Saralonde answered.

"It's the least I can do," Jenn said with a shrug, "Especially since I asked the quartermaster to assign us as roommates."

T'Saralonde's only response was a raised right eyebrow.

"Do you remember a paper you wrote when you were a post doctorate fellow at the Vulcan Science Academy, on the utilization of a nonvanishing cosmological constant in predicting quantum filament scattering?" Jenn asked. "It was republished in the Daystrom Institute Journal in my plebe year at the Academy. Blew my mind away."

"It is not a position title that the Vulcan Science Academy uses, but yes, I do remember that particular research," T'Saralonde answered. "It was a study that I conducted with Dr. Kolesov of the Daystrom Institute."

"She's my thesis advisor for my doctoral program," Jenn replied. "The Daystrom Institute is uniquely positioned to work with graduate students who are on deployed duty," the redhead added with a grin.

"Indeed. You are quite fortunate to have her as an adviser," T'Saralonde allowed. "I presume that this all has something to do with your request to be my roommate."

Jenn nodded. "I was thinking that if we utilized your nonvanishing cosmological constant in conjunction with the cosmic microwave background, using Euclidean modeling, of course ---"

Jenn paused, then asked, "You know that astrometrics holoprogram you have, the one that's going to see if the Kolesov-T'Saralonde Mode can be used to improve the efficiency of a starship's astrometrics lab?" Another raised eyebrow was met by a shrug and a smile. "Junior officers in every department do the scut work. It's part of the learning process. You'll learn to love it. One of my assignments is keeping track of newly constructed and imported holoprograms. Anyway, I think there's the opportunity, between the two of us, to make improvements in the astrometrics lab that haven't been seen since Voyager returned from the Delta Quadrant. In two months time, the improvements we could make to the Elysium's astrometrics lab..."

"In two months time, we might perhaps compile a list of potential topics to begin research on," T'Saralonde countered. "In a year's time, we might have enough data to warrant forwarding our research to the Daystrom Institute, as well as the Research and Development division at the Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards. Perhaps, with the consent of our respective department heads, as well as the command staff of the Elysium, we might be allowed to make minor improvements to the astrometrics lab. Assuming we provide documentation of the potential benefits of said improvements, as well as reasonable assurances of neglible negative impact from the upgrade."

"Argi kai statheri kerdizel ton agona?" Jenn asked with a wan smile.

"Slow and steady wins the race," T'Saralonde agreed with a nod. "You are familiar with the writings of the Greeks at that time, then?"

"Just Aesop," Jenn replied. "And for some reason, my grandmother thought hearing the moral of his tales spoken in Greek would make then sink in better. So slow and meticulous it will be then. Unless we get thrown seventy thousand light years from Federation space. Then all bets are off."

"I believe all parties involved would allow for those circumstance," T'Saralonde agreed solemnly. "For now, what would you care to discuss first?"

"Actually, I think we should have a little fun first. I know for a fact that there are a lot of free holosuites and holodecks available," Jenn stated. "So, have you ever tried adventure running?"

OFF

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - How do we proceed?

A Mission Post by Commander Aurelia Holmes & Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Lia's cabin

Timeline: Current

ON

She heard the door chime go off, grabbing a towel she quickly dried herself and got dressed. Then she answered the door, "Enter, it's open". Lia had an idea who it was, and why he was here. But she wasn't looking forwards to it, somehow things were strained between them.

Gary heard Lia's voice telling him to come in. He had her Christmas with him in a box. Stepping into her quarters, he smiled at seeing her, "Hi Lia, you want your Christmas present now or after we talk?"

"Hi yourself, you look good". That statement caught her by surprise, " Oh I see, well yours is still unwrapped so I'll let you decide". She straightened her top as her liking for Kimono tops meant they sometimes fell open, she had a coral pink top matched with a powder blue skirt. She liked to try and look nice, even if she didn't always manage it. Walking over to the replicator she turned to face Gary, "Do you want a drink before we start? Or perhaps something to eat?" She had managed to find the Captains crackers on the menu, but hadn't told anyone.

He smiled again, "You look stunning and a snack would be nice." He admitted. Knowing Lia wasn't a drinker he decided to forgo any alcoholic drink and go a safer route, "And a glass of water." He clutched her Christmas gift in his hands, "You get this later." He decided as he walked over to the couch and sat down, waiting to see what happened next.

Picking up two bowls of crackers, Lia headed for the table in front of Gary. She placed them in front of him and then returned with his water. She finally picked up her chocolate milkshake, "So what is the topic of this little talk? If I remember we were on the bridge when you said we had to talk, did I upset you?" She tucked her feet under her behind and almost looked Japanese, she often sat on the floor this way but with a guest she thought chairs would be better.

Gary reached for some of the crackers but stopped when he saw Lia's milkshake. "Darn! I should have asked for a milkshake. Oh well,water is fine." He looked at her, thinking on what and how he wanted to say what was on his mind. "Upset me? No, I wouldn't say that, more like aggravated me but not upset." He stopped before saying anything more wanting to see her reaction to what he had just said

Lia gave Gary a sideways glance, "If you want a milkshake I can get you one, what flavour would you like?" She stood up and headed for the replicator, "How did I aggravate you then? Didn't I ask permission or something?" She spoke as she waited for Gary to respond, feeling as if she got the questions out of the way things might get better between them. But then she remembered the rumours, oh yeah that. Not wanting an all out argument just yet, she thought it better to sort first things first.

"Vanilla please." He replied then continued,"You aren't three Lia. You don't need to ask permission and no it wasn't that." He paused for a moment collecting his thoughts. "It feels like when you ask for my opinion, you've already made up your mind. Also if my opinion is different from yours, it seems like you go out of your way to comment and let everyone know we disagree. Case in point on the bridge, you commented to Avalon to tell Phoenix you thought I was upset with you. There was no need for that."

Returning to the table with his milkshake, Lia looked at Gary. "It was an assumption based on your attitude, point in question the situation we were in. You clearly wanted to say something, but you didn't. You left it hanging there like a big super nova, and to be honest at that point I was way past caring about other peoples feelings. I just wanted it over, and what you did left me out on a limb". She took a sip of her milkshake, "Was I getting at you? No, was I trying to make you feel small? No, I was just to far gone to care. Haven't you ever been there?" She placed her glass on the table, "Like you said I'm not three, I'm a bit older than that. But I won't be made to feel that my orders are wrong, I won't be forced to doubt myself". She leant forward and placed her hand on Gary's, "You might not have meant to do that, but right then at that moment that's what it felt like. I felt you doubted me, and you wanted the whole bridge to follow you". She sat back and picked up her glass, "My father always doubted me, he used to do what you did on the bridge. Go to say something and then stop, problem was everyone agreed with him. I won't feel that way again".

"You know what it means when you assume and your assumption was wrong." He countered. "I'm sorry you feel that I was questioning or implying that your orders were wrong. I wasn't." His hand curled up around hers. "I've never doubted you Lia or your ability to lead. But it feels like you question me if I'm not in total agreement with you.":He held a hand up to stave off any protest. "You said that wasn't your intention and I accept that." He paused and fixed her with a look, Bristling as she mentioned her father. "I'm not your father, who I personally think was a no good bastard and I don't appreciate being mentioned in the same conversation as him." He reached for his milkshake, taking a sip of it before putting it back on the table. "Um good." He continued "As for how you feel, only you can be made to feel like you do." He sighed "I'll try to do better in showing I trust you and your ability to lead. Fair enough?"

She smiled at Gary, "Yeah thanks, and I'll try and do the same. Hey listen to us, anyone would think we're married". Lia suddenly blushed, "Sorry, opened my mouth before thinking".

Gary shook his head,"No reason or need to apologize Lia. It's a nice thought." He answered simply. "Was there anything else you wanted to talk about?"

Lia shook her head, "No not really, we seem to get by with most things. You got anything else you need to bring to the table?" She knew there were things to talk about, like Liselle. But what good would it do? She would wait and see what Gary said first, then bring the question up.

Gary looked at her for a moment as if considering something then spoke, "Well, there is something, I think you need to know before you hear any rumors." He paused and took another sip of his milkshake. "I had a meeting with Liselle on the station." He said slowly and quietly.

"Oh, well to be honest I did overhear a couple of people talking. I didn't catch the whole thing, but in short they were sure the XO had a new girlfriend. And that he had dropped the old one already, because she was to much trouble". She spoke quietly, almost whispering. Lia looked up at Gary, "I didn't want to seem like I was spying on you, but if your moving on then let me know. Because I can't stay if we're through, I might say or do something wrong". She stood up and placed her now empty glass in the replicator, "We only work when we're honest with each other, and this harpie is tired of fighting. I was going to make all kinds of a scene, but now I just want it know what's happening". She turned to face Gary, and stood waiting.

Despite his best intentions, Gary felt himself becoming defensive. He held his hand up raising one finger. "One, if I had a new girlfriend you'd be the first to know. You wouldn't be hearing rumors and gossip." He raised a second finger, "Two you aren't spying you want to know what's going on." A third finger went up. "Three you aren't too much trouble." He raised a fourth finger, "Four, stop referring to yourself as a harpie. You aren't." A fifth finger rose to join the other four. "What's going on is I love you Lia. I've never lied to you and I never will. I did meet Liselle at her invitation for what she said was a working lunch. Instead we exchanged Christmas gifts and um under the mistletoe we kissed each other's cheek." He left out the part of Liselle hurting their {Her and his) relationship.

There was a sharp intake of breath, "Well that wasn't what I expected, not sure how to react to that". She pressed a button and the cutlery and crockery faded away in the replicator, "Denial was what I thought I'd get, I had a speech already for that". She walk back to her chair, "So you kissed Liselle, under the mistletoe. At the bar, in public. No wonder the rumour mill went into overdrive, transwarp couldn't have gone any faster". She sat down and looked straight at Gary, "Love is a two way street, and right now its only going one way. And you know who isn't playing fair, me!" Lia shifted in her seat, "Look we both went into this knowing it wasn't going to be easy, mistrust runs rampant on both sides. It's kinda in our nature, and you know that don't you. I won't blame you if you want out, I guess you could say I'm giving you an escape clause. Think about it, because its time limited". She lowered her head and stared at the carpet, "I know I'm difficult, and I know I seem to switch direction mid stream. If you wanna walk now's your chance, if you stay then your saying you except me as I am. Trouble with a capital 'T', a kind of warts and all. And I can't change who I am, I can try and trust people but my nature will out sometimes. And that's just who I am, do you understand that?" She looked up, "Clocks running, make you choice".

Gary sat silently, seconds elapsed before he reached a hand out lightly touching, turning her face until she looked at him. "No, I told you I won't lie to you. I respect you too much for that. I don't care about you trusting people Lia. I do care that you trust me. Not asking you to change." He said gently, "Just perhaps soften the edges." He looked deeply into her eyes,"I want you Lia, capital T, warts and all, difficult or not I want us to be together. To laugh,cry, talk get mad at each other then make up. I understand what you've said. Do you understand what I'm saying to you? I've made my choice. I'm not walking away. I'm here for the duration. My choice is you Lia. Always has been. I don't need anymore time."

A tear slowly rolled down Lia's cheek, "You don't know when to quit do you? I give you a chance to walk away and yet you stay, really confuses me that does. I've told you this won't be easy, you've seen how quickly I can change moods. Yet here you are willing to take that all on, where do we go from here?" Standing up she took a deep breath and crossed towards Gary, then looking up at the ceiling she took another. Lowering her head she looked into Gary's eye's, and slowly placed herself onto his lap. "Looks like you have yourself a problem, how you handle her will decide what happens next", she kissed him full on the mouth. "Hope you know what the hell your getting into", she waited for Gary's response.

"As my Dad would say, I'm thick headed that way. Wherever we go we go together." His arms came up and settled lightly at her waist. "Its a problem I can handle. "He replied as his gaze met hers.After she had kissed him and said her last his answer was simple in its elegance. He brought her head forward and he returned the kiss, letting that speak as his answer. However to remove any doubt. He added "I surely do. Going into this with eyes wide open. You want your present now?"

Lia smiled, "Well it would be rude not to, like I said yours is still unwrapped. So do you want it?" She stood up and walked to her small cupboard, picking up a small jewelry box she returns and hands it to Gary. Laying inside is a signet ring, on the top of the ring is their initials intertwined. "Here, I sorry it's not much".

Gary took the box and looked at the ring. He was speechless for several seconds as he was so touched by Lia's thoughtfulness. "OH Lia! It's beautiful!" He gushed as he took it out of the box ans slipped onto his finger. "See? It fits perfectly." As he happily waved his hand at her. "Oh gees! I almost forgot. Here's your present Lia. Merry Christmas." He finished as he handed her a long box. (Upon opening the box, Lia will find a handmade rapier, for her to use in her holodeck adventures.)

Taking the box she found it heavy, "What the hell have you got in here?" She asked, "You haven't been stealing lead off the church roof again" she joked. Laying the box down Lia opened it carefully, "A rapier! How did you know? I've been after one of these for sometime, and it's handmade". She took hold of the sword and held it before her, "It's going to take some getting used to, the balance is way different from my broadsword. And it's not as long, that will make for some fun". She moved the sword slowly back and forth feeling its balance, "Oh yeah way different, I may need a few lessons". She looked at Gary, "Thank you, it's just what I want. Now all I need is someone to enjoy my holodeck time with, your more Roy Rogers than one of the three Musketeers". She gave him another kiss, a thought wandered through her mind and she smiled.

OFF

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Your Love..... Keeps Lifting Me Higher

A Mission Post by Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Gary's Quarters

Timeline: Current

(OOC: Takes place after leaving Lia's quarters)

Gary sat on the couch.His quarters were dark. Just the gentle hiss of the air recycling unit could be heard. His heart and mouth were both racing. He had practically floated back to his quarters after he and Lia had taken another step in their relationship. Which pleased him to no end.

Right now, at this particular moment he considered himself the luckiest man alive. He had found love not once but twice. The first was with Catlin and their love had been reflective of them. It was white hot, burning bright. It had been full of unbridled passion. A white hot furnace. Then Catlin had been taken from him and he hadn't even been able to say goodbye. The emotional pain and overwhelming loss he had felt at her death had turned into an emotional scar. Then he met Lia and he smiled as he remembered how they loathed each other in the beginning and how a confrontation in the holodeck had cleared the air and a romance slowly began to form. Lia was beautiful, smart, sassy, feisty, could hold her own in an argument and gave as good as she got in teasing. She also had severe trust issues with men having been burned more than once by so called officers and gentleman. Which had complicated matters until he had been able to prove to her that he wasn't like the other 'men' she had been involved with.

However all that had been placed in the rear view mirror as they both had recommitted to each other. His love for Lia was different than what it had been with Catlin. She was his first and his love had been pure and simple. With Lia it was dare he think it? More mature. They both knew what they wanted in a partner and lover and neither would settle for less.

He rose from the couch. Right now he felt young, reborn not a care in the world and that was due to Lia. Smiling to himself, he spoke to the computer, "Computer play Jackie Wilson.....Your Love Keeps lifting Me Higher." Seconds later his quarters were full of the song and Jackie Wilson's heartfelt lyrics.

"Your love keeps lifting me higher,than I've been lifted before. So keep it up. Quench my desire. And I'll be by your side,forever more.

Now once I was down hearted Disappointment was my closet friend But then you,came and it soon departed And you know he never Showed his face again."

Then Commander Gary Taylor, First Officer of the USS Elysium did something he hadn't done in years, not since he and Catlin had been married. He danced into the bedroom singing along with the song.

Practice for her wedding day

A Mission Post by Commander Aurelia Holmes

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Lia's cabin/Holodeck one

Timeline: Current

ON

Lia sat on the floor looking at her Christmas present, the saber that Gary had given her. She felt that somehow a barrier had been crossed, maybe just maybe this time it would be different. He'd only been gone for about five minuets but she already missed him, was this what love felt like? Standing up she walked over to the replicator, "Milkshake, chocolate, ice cold". Picking up the shake she walked back to her spot, and like a geisha slowly sank to the floor. oO I did it.....I actually did it Oo she thought to her self. Only thing was how did she now proceed?

Her mind turned over and over, but somehow she couldn't think straight. She now stood up and got changed, she would visit Gary in his quarters. No, no, no, no. That would look desperate, she got changed again. Maybe some holodeck time, she hadn't thrown her sword around for a while. Nope that didn't seem right either, she stood looking at her self in the full length mirror. oO Bimbo the warrior Princess Oo she decided. This wasn't her, all this faffing about. Then it hit her, yes she would go to the holodeck but not as Gary nor anyone else had ever seen her.

"Computer, is holodeck one free?" She headed for her wardrobe and something she had bought many years ago, something she promised she would only wear when the time was right. =^="Holodeck one is unoccupied at this time"=^=, the computer reported. Lia nodded, yeah it was the right time. It was her time, and now she would see if it fitted and she could do what she practised. "Computer, play Holmes Beta 2. Japanese tea house", she then got changed.

Twenty minuets later she stood outside the holodeck, "Computer, is Holmes Beta 2 running?" =^="Program running, do you wish to enter?" Taking a deep breath she replied, "Yes". The doors glided open and before her was a traditional Japanese tea house, bowing to the head geisha Lia entered. Dressed in a Kimono and looking like she belonged there, she began the tea ceremony. One day Gary would be here to receive the tea, but for now this was her secret. "Konnichiwa Taylor san", she passed the cup to the holographic Gary. "Watashi no namae wa Holmes desu". Like a small child in a dream she continued the ceremony, if they ever got married this would be her way of proving her love. But only Gary would ever know, and that could be a long way off. Plenty of time to get it right, she hoped.

OFF

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Reports and reflections.

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Sthilg

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Medbay.

Timeline:

" Right all of you enjoy you're RAR I'll finsh up here." Had been the gorns words to his staff over fifteen munites ago. Now he sat alone in the empty sickbay with a large pile of padd's with nothing, but some faint ambiance music playing in the empty rooms. Another mission he'd survived to tick of his list. His brain was feeling better no longer needing the drugs to keep it running and it could really on regular sleep without being woken by terrible nightmares.

He could still see the voices screaming at him from the abyss. All the voices and tears of the people he failed. The people he couldn't fix. He'd lost count of the people he'd failed even with the countless amounts of people he had helped the failed never left him.

He shook his head and blinked his eyes as he got back to filling his reports. Every one he failed he had learned from and made sure it never happened again. At least know the task of filling the stock reports was something he could manage.

" Computer next track." He said as he took a sip from his warm coffee and got back to work his mind filling with numbers and sound. He couldn't change the past, but he could do better in the future.

And no nightmares could stop him.

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - My Happy Place

A Mission Post by Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Commander Matias Grronkil

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: SB Gamma - Holodeck 4

Timeline: The last day of the holidays

Standing outside the doors to Holodeck 4, Liselle Qwyyn couldn't help herself from bouncing up and down on the balls of her feet. She was nervous. And excited. And happy. And full of doubt and full of hope. All of the emotions that welled up inside of her now made her skin tingle as she tried to contain them, and kept her from any hope of possibly standing still as she waited for Matias to arrive and join her in the program that she had created for them.

She had suggested that he dress comfortably, she herself had donned her favorite Christmas garb: red tights and an over-sized green Christmas sweater with sleeves so long that they covered her hands. She didn't know if the Grral had any concept of Christmas. Matias had always shown a keen interest in human traditions, however, so he may very well. It didn't matter. Whether this was new to him or not, it was their first Christmas together. And she was excited for it to begin. And nervous.

Christmas was a mystery to Matias. Somehow this was a festival where humans killed a tree, then decorated it and sang to it about a horned creature with a bright red nose. And who was this Sandy Claws? Some overweight man in a red suit. But the Sandy Claws suit looked comfortable so he dressed in it. Without the boots. He ordered one up from the replicator and put it on. He then made his way to the holodeck.

"Do I look all right?" he said, wearing the red suit and cap. The other suit that he rejected was a pink bunny suit, which somebody called a deranged Eeester bunny. He wasn't about to wear that.

Qwyyn's smile bloomed so wide that she nearly felt pain in the corners of her mouth. She shook her head in joyful disbelief, her eyes sparkling with absolute delight at the sight of him. "You look absolutely perfect." She stretched out her hand to him, holding her sleeve covered palm out for his. "Come with me. I want to show you something."

Matias took her hand and followed her. "I am ready," he said.

She punched the controls at the console next to them, and the doors to Holodeck 4 sighed open. She pulled Matias inside with her, and as the doors closed behind them she turned to him, holding both of his hands in her own. "I know it looks a little strange, but it's a program I created to bring together all of the things that bring me joy. This is my happy place. We're standing on the peak of El Capitan mountain, from Earth. This weather is set to match what is considered to be a perfect day on my homeworld of Trill. The music you hear is a Vulcan meditation chant." She pointed to the night sky above them. "I've made some additions to my paradise lately. If my navigating skills are worth a damn, those stars should look exactly like they do when viewed from your planet."

Tears came to Matias' eyes. "It's beautiful. It has been so long since I have seen those stars. And I think that's your galaxy in the distance, the Milky Way as you call it." He drew her close. "It brings me joy as well."

Liselle reached up to rest a hand against his neck. She let her fingers twine in his fur. "I also want you to know that what I told you about before -- about me having to work through the feelings I have for someone else on the Elysium. That's over now. I've made my peace with that, and I've moved on. From now on, I know what I want. I want you. Only you."

"You have made me more happy than I ever thought I would be," said Matias. "I...I...Computer, John Denver, Love again. This is how I feel."

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QnAt-1TmoY)

With that, he kissed her for the first time.

For Liselle, the kiss took a moment to get used to. She found herself thankful that he had taken control, because she hadn't been at all certain how to engage her lips with him in a way that wouldn't embarrass herself. But once she had given herself over to the kiss, she found herself melting into it. Into him. When they finally parted, she ran her hands up along his face, and locked her eyes with his. "I want to share something with you. Something intimate. If that's okay with you."

"Go ahead, please." said Matias. He was curious as to what she had to share with him.

"You're going to think this is a little strange," she warned him. She took a step away, and then turned back, reaching a hand out to him. "But this is important to me. Come with me, to the edge of the peak." She added a teasing smile. "Don't worry, this isn't about to take a dark turn."

Now Matias was even more curious. He took her hand and went with her to the edge of the peak.

She stuffed her right hand into the left sleeve of her sweater and then from it she produced two small white sticks. "Trilian cigarettes," she explained. "This scenery, the music, you, and these. It's why I wanted to bring you here -- what I wanted to share with you. A perfect moment." She tucked the cigarettes between her lips, lit them, and then offered one to Matias.

Matias took it, unsure on what to do. He put it in his mouth and looked to her. He did a trial inhale.

Liselle's smile nearly reached from one ear to the other. "Bless your heart but you are cute," she said with a happy sigh. She looped her arm with his and rested her cheek against his shoulder. "Thank you, Matias. For sharing this with me. For being a part of my happy place."

"Wherever you are, there is my happy place." said Matias. He held her close. "You are so beautiful."

She looked up at the sky above them, warm in the glow of his presence and his words. She couldn't be certain how long she stayed silent then, enjoying this moment that she thought she might like to have last forever. "Merry Christmas, Matias."

"Merry Christmas, Liselle." said Matias, and he kissed her.

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Promotion Joint post

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Commodore Cornelius Harrington III

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Some random's office on Starbase Gamma

Timeline: Current

IC

Phoenix had been summoned. Summons were always an issue for her and she was cataloguing the past few weeks in her head trying to figure out where exactly trouble had gotten back to command.

She entered the temporary office of one Commodore Cornelius Harrington III and gave her name to the yeoman sitting at the desk like a sentinel.

The yeoman nodded and waved her to the chairs by the wall. "Please be seated commander. the Commodore will be with you shortly."

Phoenix inclined her head and went and took a seat.

Neil came out of his office, handing a padd to the Assistant working at the desk. He was odd being back on a station, even for a short time, but his job required it periodically. He glanced over this shoulder, "Commander Lalor," he smiled approaching the Officer.

Extending a hand, "I wasn't aware you had arrived, I hope you were not waiting long," he asked?

"No sir, I just got here." Phoenix shook his hand.

Neil motioned to the empty chair that sat across from the desk and he took a seat. "I don't tend to get away from the Roanoke often, but when I do it's nice." He rambled as he poured himself a cup of coffee. He gestured to the Commander, "coffee," he asked?

"Thank you, yes." Phoenix replied with a smile.

Neil poured a second cup, "So tell how are things on the Elyisum," he asked? "Taking the reigns from an Admiral can't have been an easy adjustment?"

"For the old time crew, it didn't take much. I guess the events that we went through helped them understand if I made mistakes, and with the former XO being so distant and the Admiral, well being an Admiral, they saw me,as second officer, most days when we were stranded, so they didn't see much change. And the new crew have been very helpful. Commander Taylor in particular has been a wonderful Executive officer. I don't know if things would be running so smoothly if Command had not assigned him to the Elysium as my XO." Phoenix said as she took the cup. She gave a smile. "And it helps with the new crew who balk at the young commanding officer sitting in the center chair."

Neil smiled, "You've done a wonderful job with the Command," he sipped his drink. "Most of the time when a Commanding Officer's name crosses my desk it , typically, isn't a positive thing. Most outcomes in this case results in paperwork; however that is not the case with the Elysium."

Neil opened a small drawer to his left as he reached in taking out a small box, it wasn't decorated nor was it adorned in any fanfare. It was a small wooden box, probably oak, that could fit inside the palm of a hand. He set the box down on the desk, and slid it across, "I resisted doing this on your bridge in front of your staff," he smirked, "I do enjoy watching people squirm, perk of the job."

He motioned for the Commander to stand as he stood himself walking around the desk, "Commander Phoenix Lalor for your hard work and dedication I hear by promote you to the rank of Captain."

He reached inside the box and took out two small gold, solid pips. Taking one pips and approached the Officer and affixed the pip to her right collar, then the second on her left. "Continue to do what you do best. Continue to take care of your crew, and I don't doubt that you will continue to move up, Captain."

Squirm? How about faint? Phoenix thought as he pinned the pips on. "Thank you sir." she said honestly. She had to take a breath. "I won't dishonor these pips Sir. You can be sure of that." She saluted him.

Neil tried to hide a laugh, "I am sure you will not," he added, "besides there is too much paperwork involved in getting those back. I'd rather not go down that route," he joked. Making his way around the desk, he sat back down, "so the Elysium what is her next mission?"

"We have been slated to deliver crew to the USS Starling and then to go map some nebular on the other side of Dominion Space." She had to shrug. "Sounds enthralling"

Neil laughed, "nebula, really?" He shook his head, unless a Commander came from the Science Division scanning, mapping, or charting a nebula had to be right up there with cleaning the waste reclamation system. It was truly one of the worst assignments that no Captain ever wished to get. He wished he had some words of wisdom, but frankly he didn't. "Well I hope something exciting comes up," he shrugged.

"Even if it doesn't, a quiet mission would be nice for the crew." She admitted. "I am quite over being shot at, and threatened" Standing up, she gave him a smile. "Thank you for the promotion Sir. I have taken up too much of your time."

OFF

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Meeting the new chief of science

A Mission Post by Captain Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Ian Murphy

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Captain's ready room

Timeline: Current

Once his shuttle hit the deck plating of the shuttlebay, Murphy was off and running, shouldering his tote bag of belongings and synching up his PADDs and tricorders with the ship's computer. It insisted, of course, on scanning them for malicious programming, but that was to be expected, and of course, they passed the sweep, because the only thing that was malicious inside them were the sentiments expressed in his personal logs. Once they passed the test, he sent a memo to the captain to let her know he would be coming up to meet with her, and then calling up the ship's schematics for directions.

Murphy hadn't been aboard this class of vessel before, and as he walked, he was tempted to do a little rubbernecking, but held his curiosity in check, although he would be running a metallurgical scan of her superstructure to see if there were resonance traces of the event that sent her to another galaxy. The very thought of it has his scientific curiosity simmering. Barely five minutes had elapsed before he made it to is destination and tapped on the panel next to the door to announce his presence.

The door opened to admit him to the office. Phoenix Lalor, newly minted as a captain stood behind the desk watching as her new chief of science entered the room. "Ah Lieutenant Murphy." She said with a smile and extending her hand. "Welcome to the USS Elysium."

Murphy paused a moment in his stride, struck an at-attention pose. "Captain Lalor." He hoped that was her surname -- it was kinda hard to tell, and he couldn't be bothered to look into the Erisian cultural database to be sure. He relaxed from attention and resumed his stride towards her desk, reaching out to clasp her hand with a half-smile on his own face. "It's good to..." His brow furrowed a little. "To, uh... Meet you." His smile became slightly apologetic. "Sorry, it isn't often I meet a Starfleet captain who does a lot of swordwork." He explained with a nod towards her hand.

"Ah yes." Phoenix smiled. "Please have a seat Lieutenant. Swordwork is one of my main hobbies." she didn't mention that she often carried a number of blades about. Most crew learned that in their own time. "So, tell me Mr Murphy, are you looking forward to your time on this monolith?"

"After a decade at Jupiter Station?" He asked in response. "Absolutely." He said, answering his own question emphatically. "I'm quite... Eager to get out in the field again and do some actual work." Eager felt like an alien word to Murphy -- something he wasn't quite used to feeling, but it fit most of the criteria of what he was feeling, so it would have to do.

"Well I am sure we can accommodate that. We have a number of science labs on board and we are mainly on a constant exploration mission of the Gamma Quad for the foreseeable future" Phoenix said with a smile.

"I'm fine with that." Murphy said, with a slight nod. He didn't have roots set down in the Alpha quadrant, nor any place better to be. "As long as I don't have to deal with any Vorta, that is. That might be a deal-breaker." He joked.

"Believe me we wont be looking to deal with them." Phoenix smiled. "I am not in the habit of picking fights where it can be avoided."

"And I think I've pretty much gotten that sort of thing out of my system." Because he'd done a lot of that during his leave of absence. "Well, unless you've got anything else to ask me about, I should probably get myself down to the science department and begin terrorizing my staff with unreasonable demands." He said, with a waggle of his eyebrows.

She laughed. "Dismissed Lieutenant"

[off]

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - New Chief of Intelligence

A Mission Post by Captain Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Wynter

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Captain's Ready room

Timeline: Current

Phoenix was going through the paperwork and sighed as she went over the crew transfers. A new chief of Intelligence. Dante wanted to step down and focus on other things. She respected that. Still, intelligence seemed to be a revolving door.

A ping on her panel alerted her to the new officer's arrival outside her office. She straightened in her chair and released the door.

Wynter entered the office, his eyes briefly darting around the room as if he was mapping his surroundings, before his gaze settled on the woman behind the desk. "Lieutenant Wynter reporting as ordered Ma'am." He said Flatly.

Phoenix stood and held out her hand, human style. "Welcome to the Elysium Lieutenant" she said.

"Thank you Captain." He replied remaining standing.

"Please have a seat." She waved him to the chair. "Your record, what I could read of it, makes interesting reading Lieutenant."

Wynter sat slowly, and nodded. "Yes Captain I do hope that it is a real page turner." He said dryly.

The Erisians' lips cured into a small smirk. "Oh just riveting." She picked up a PADD. And held it out. "This is the current status of the ship and crew, and your department have access to the Intelligence blister beneath the main bridge."

Wynter nodded slowly. "I appreciate that." He said taking the PADD. "I should get to the blister I need to go over some of the analysis that the staff have prepared."

"Of course, though I would suggest settling in first. We are not due to leave for a few days yet. And your department will need to get to know you." Phoenix replied.

"Yes ma'am." He replied evenly. "Permission to leave?"

"Dismissed" Phoenix said with a smile.

=/\=

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Drowing thy sorrows

A Mission Post by Captain Phoenix Lalor & Commander Liselle Qwyyn

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: Starbase Gamma

Timeline: After Forever

IC

Phoenix led the way into the first bar they came to. It was, to her eye, filled with non Elysium personnel. Which was good. No heads turned in surprise, instead they turned to survey the two females as they entered. Phoenix spotted an empty booth at the back and all but towed her friend to it. "here is perfect."

She sat down and when Liselle settled in opposite her, she sighed with relief. "This is nice"

Liselle shrank into her chair as she looked at the people around them. "It's kind of...aggressive in here," she said softly. "I think that's dried blood on the floor."

"Nah!" a voice cut in. A young woman, dressed to entice tips for the male patrons stood alongside their booth. "That's just Rigelian spice pie. Or was it Klingon rokeg pie?" She waved a dismissive hand. "Either way. It's not any kind of blood that matters, honey. Whata you two having?"

"Can we get a bottle of vodka with lemon and salt please" Phoenix asked politely. "Two glasses."

The waitress smile faded quickly as she heard the order, and she put a comforting hand on Phoenix's shoulder. "You got it, honey."

Liselle watched the woman walk back towards the bar before turning her attention to her friend. The Trill couldn't help but raise a concerned brow. "Is...everything okay?"

"Apparently my job is too dangerous for a certain male of our acquaintance to handle." Phoenix grumbled.

"Not..." Qwyyn leaned in, "Ken?"

Phoenix was about to speak when their drinks arrived. She smiled at the waitress. "Thanks."

"You holler if you need anything else, honey."

Once they were alone Phoenix poured the first round. "Yup Ken. Its over. Done."

Qwyyn sputtered on her first tiny sip. She set the glass back down on the table again. "No. No. No?! No!"

Phoenix tossed back her drink. "I never asked for this bloody job Liselle. And I am a big girl I can handle myself!"

"But -- " Qwyyn blinked. "But I don't understand. I mean -- why would he -- too dangerous? What does that even mean 'too dangerous?' We've seen plenty of danger before the two of you ever got together." Now she, too, took a swig of her drink. She scoffed. "Too dangerous?"

"He can't cope with my being in danger." Phoenix muttered. "Men. Want damsels in distress!"

"That's so not fair of him!" Qwyyn protested. "Doesn't he know that you are under way more pressure than him when it comes to keeping people safe? Gods! You're responsible for the entire crew!"

Phoenix nodded. "He doesn't see that Liselle. He sees the young woman being in danger. Guess its part of him." She poured another drink. "And he wanted to either break up or do this long distance.. I refuse to do long distance relationships. So we ended it."

"But after everything he went through to get you in the first place! How could he just throw it all like that!" Qwyyn insisted. And then she caught herself. She shook her head, embarrassed. "I'm sorry, I guess I'm not being very helpful, am I?" She took up the bottle and tipped it into her glass. She slid the bottle to Phoenix. "Drink more."

"Gladly." The Erisian replied downing the drink. "Men"

"Tell me about," Qwyyn sighed, rolling her eyes. "I used to be one." The Trill refilled their glasses again. "On the bright side, at least it ended now. Imagine if you shared quarters or something. This way, you get a clean break, and I can go back to punishing him in his job with impunity."

"You stopped punishing him in his job because he was sleeping with me?" Phoenix asked.

Qwyyn gave her a devil's smile. "Of course not. I just used to feel bad about it."

"Don't," muttered Phoenix with another downing of the tequila. "I tell you Liselle, the man annoyed me totally."

"Consider him murdered. Unofficially of course," she said. Cradling her glass with her fingers, she looked up at her friend. "And speaking of rumors...I heard a whisper or two that you might be getting promoted?"

Phoenix smiled."This morning. Captains pips. But am keeping it quiet for now."

Qwyyn's expression was a mixture of absolute pride and joyful tears. She didn't hesitate in finishing the bottle into their glasses. She reached down to hold up her own. "Captain Penelope Lalor," she said. She nodded, overly-satisfied with the sound of her best friend's long deserved rank attached to her name. "To the beginning of a legacy."

"ohhh not Penelope!" Phoenix laughed. "Captain Phoenix Lalor."

"Ah! I do believe you just handed out your very first reprimand as Captain," she smiled mischievously as she leaned in to whisper. "How'd it feel? As good as we always hoped it would?"

"Yes. Kinda weird though, I already had the position.. now it is just the added weight of the rank." Phoenix replied with a smile.

Qwyyn held up the very last gulp of her drink up. "To more bureaucratic crap and paperwork!"

Phoenix smiled. "I will need to get a yeoman for the paperwork I think eventually." She downed her next glass. "I will have to see how things go."

"You could always put Ken in that role," she suggested. "Captain's prerogative?"

Phoenix laughed at that. "No thanks. I'll pass."

"Well," Qwyyn said, bowing her head to Phoenix's wisdom on the matter, "I'm sure whoever you pick will be absolutely perfect for the role. And if they so happen to be an amazing piece of eye candy. Then, so be it."

The waitress wandered over to their table once more. She took the empty vodka bottle without comment, and she turned to Phoenix. "Where to from here, hun?"

Phoenix considered it for a moment. "Do you have Earth Vodka?" she asked politely.

She narrowed her eyes in thought until a smile crossed her lips. "I have just the thing."

As she sauntered off, Liselle looked to her friend, her best friend. Qwyyn cleared her throat, an uncomfortable question she had been holding onto now finding its way to her lips. "So, where does this put us?" she asked. "I mean, now that you're officially a captain, do you need to maintain a, ummmmm, well -- are -- is it -- we're still -- nothing is going to change between us...right?"

Before Phoenix could answer, the waitress was already walking back to the table. "Had it ready to go," she said, presenting the bottle to Phoenix. The characters written across its surface were in an Earth language that Liselle did not recognize. Some of the characters looked similar to English, but not quite. "Watch yourself. It'll give you one hell of a night. And one hell of a morning."

"Thanks" Phoenix smiled. Once alone again, she looked at Liselle. "Rank has never changed our friendship Lise."

Qwyyn breathed a sigh of relief. At once exaggerated, yet relieved still to hear Phoenix speak the words aloud, so that there was no room for doubt. She reached over to the bottle and began to unscrew its cap. "To a permanent friendship," Liselle said. She tossed the cap aside and set to filling the glasses once more. Alcohol, camaraderie, and their recent tattoo experience helped fueled her toast as she raised her glass. "In this life, and into all the ones that come after."

OFF

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - Merry Non-Christmas

A Mission Post by Captain Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: CO's Quarters

Timeline:

Arrrianna carried a rather expensive gift in a case to Phoenix's quarters. She waited for a few moments and pushed the door chime.

The door opened and the Commander stood there. "Hello Lieutenant."

"Merry Christmas, even if Erisians do not celebrate it." Arri said as she entered. "The humans give each other gifts during this week. So I have decided to indulge their customs and give a gift." She smiled a bit. "Yes, I know, strange for an Alindari to celebrate a human holiday, isn't it?"

Phoenix smiled. "It is, but its always nice to explore other cultures." She took the box. "Come in." she stepped back and waved the Lieutenant into the large quarters.

It was slowly being decorated in Phoenix's cultural style. Lots of thick floor rugs, low comfortable couches and tables with nick nacks around. On the dining table however was a pile of christmas wrapping paper. "I am just finishing up my own gift wrapping. Its not as easy as my old governess made it look."

"The best lessons are the ones we don't learn." Arri mentioned. "That way we reflect on them always." She presented Phoenix with a elongated and decorated wooden case.

Phoenix took the case and opened it. "Oh Arri, I can't accept this." She said looking up.

Arri responded. "I insist, Phoenix. A Starship Captain deserves a blade worthy of her. Congratulations on your recent promotion. Captain at Twenty-Eight. You would make James T. Kirk, Jealous."

Phoenix blushed "I think he beats me in conquests though."

"Give it time, Phoenix. I'm sure you might be conquered." Arri gave a light smile. "But still, we must not make you easy to conquer, so a weapon for you to defend yourself."

Phoenix laughed at that. "Thank you for this Arri." She said with a smile.

Arrianna nodded. "Now that you have a blade worthy of you. it's time you learned how to use it. My people have perfected swordplay"

Phoenix smirked. "I am not too bad at Sword fighting you know Arri."

She nodded. "Then you are going to need it, my friend. Because I will be fully rested the next time we face each other." She grinned.

"Hope so." Phoenix replied with a matching grin.

=/\=

Episode 5: Deck the Halls - A Good Second Impression

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar & Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 5: Deck the Halls

Location: TBD

Timeline:

Arri entered the crew lounge. Last night was the first full night of sleep she got since that entity left the ship. The bags in her eyes had left, as well as the signs of exhaustion. She felt more calm than she did for days, and had a particularly fond dream of swimming with dolphins. She pushed a button on a replicator. "Computer, Orange Juice, and fruit salad."

Gary entered the crew lounge, it wasn't a place he normally frequented usually preferring the quiet and solace of his quarters but today he wanted to be out and among people. He approached the replicator, "Coffee, cream and sugar, scrambled eggs and toast." After getting his breakfast he went and found a table out of the way where he could eat and just watch the crew interact.

"Commander Taylor." Arri stated as she held her tray. Mainly consisting of fruits with a slice of toast. "Is this seat available?" She seemed calmer than she was in the holodeck. More focused, rational."

Gary looked up from sipping his coffee to see Ari standing there a tray in her hands. He gestured for her to sit, "Please." he added.

"I must apologize for my recent behavior. I was under the influence of an insidious life form we've recently ejected from the ship." Arri mentioned.

He shook his head from side to side, "Nothing and no reason to apologize Lieutenant. We were all affected by the life form." He pointed out. "It's over and done with. Best to put it behind you."

"Thank you Commander." Arri mentioned. "I hope to acclimate myself properly with this crew in the coming days." She seemed like a Vulcan, but without the stoic behavior.

Gary leaned back in his chair and studied her.She seemed sincere in her desire to fit in with the crew. "A worth while goal to be sure." Gary agreed. "Just out of curiosity just how do you plan to acclimate yourself properly with the crew?"

"By sleeping without being tormented by my demons." She responded plainly.

"A good start to be sure." Gary acknowledged, "However if I may offer another suggestion?" He ventured.

"You are asking me to see a Counselor?" She noted. "My people have definite opinions on Psychology, Commander. We view it as.... 'mental slight-of-hand.' Though see the value it would have to outsiders who cannot share thoughts as easily as mine can. Though i will consider it."

Gary shook his head, "No, I wasn't going to suggest you see a Counselor. "My suggestion is more individual driven in that as you want to acclimate yourself properly with the crew. To do that, you should endeavor to learn about your crew mates. Find out something about them. Perhaps shared likes or hobbies or if they have siblings. Those are excellent ice breakers and good conversation starters."

Arrianna smiled softly. "Thank you commander. You are the squadron commander, are you not. I wonder if I did not go into sciences, if I would go into the starfighter corps, but these are simply the A'vet San..." She noted. "Alindari for 'Fantasies of the Young.' Sometimes we have to live with our choices."

Gary smiled in return, "You are welcome Lieutenant. Yes I'm squadron commander it's my secondary position here on the Elysium. My first and primary is that of Executive Officer. I prefer dreams to fantasies however if you are so inclined, we can get you some training in the fighters and that can be a secondary position for you. As we can always use pilots."

Arri thought a moment. "improving my piloting skills might prove useful one day. My people are peaceful, Commander. But we've learned from the holocaust the borg inflicted upon us that if we're not strong, we will be borg." She noted. "I accept, we must value peace, but be ready to fight for it."

'Some lessons are painful and cruel." Gary admitted "However if we learn from them they serve a purpose." He nodded at her acceptance to be a pilot. "Excellent. Glad to have you and I couldn't agree more."

Arri nodded, "When should we begin the first training session?" She wondered.

"Let's see how your regular duty shifts works out " Gary offered, "Then we'll go from there. However I would say that your first session will probably take place in the next two weeks." He stated.

Arri nodded. "Excellent Commander." She noted. "I will begin to familiarize myself with the initial training paperwork for the training."

Gary nodded in approval. "Excellent Lieutenant. That's Command thinking. I will see you at the simulator."

She nodded calmly and turned to leave.