Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be - Part 2

Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be - Meeting of minds

A Mission Post by Ensign Tasinder Solani & Lieutenant Commander Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be

Location: Chief Science Officer's Office

Timeline: MD3, 0800

Tas was up bright and early that morning, which surprised him after the amount of blood wine he and K'Otek had consumed the night before. He felt fresh and well rested as he zipped up his uniform. He made himself breakfast, Ktarian eggs on a bagel, and read back over his PADD again. He had taken plenty of notes on scientific mapping of the Gamma Quadrant before he came aboard so that he was as up to speed as he could realistically be.

As he sauntered down the hall, a wave of nervousness came across him. He had only ever worked for Dr Park. He had enjoyed a good working relationship with her over the last few years but it suddenly dawned on him that he didn't know what to expect from Lieutenant Liducca. He barely knew anything at all about her.

He considered drawing up her personnel file again as he waited but decided against it. He stepped into the Science Lab and took a quick glance around the room.

At the other end of the room stood an Andorian/Betelgeusian officer flanked by, and in conversation with an enlisted human male and a Rigelian male officer. The conversation ended when Dyhei, the hybrid female, smiled and gave the other officer a friendly wack on the shoulder with the PADD that she carried. Turning to go, her vision fell on the Ensign standing a few paces into the room, he was unfamiliar to her but there had been a few new arrivals. "Mornning Ensign, your either a lost medic or one of my new arrivals, either way welcome to the Science decks." She shot a sideways glance to the Scientists Mate, "Dec is he one of mine?"

"You've got three yet to report two Petty officers and an Ensign Solani, is that you son?" Came the response after the male enlisted made a quick check fact check.

"It is," Tas confirmed holding a hand out to greet his superior officer. "Ensign Tasinder Solani reporting for duty, Sir."

"Nice, very professional. Well done." Dyhei responded with a smile she hoped would put him a little at ease. "Well as we're both here I guess I'll give the tour of or part of this colossus. Interested?" She asked deciding that would be the best way to get a deal for the new officer.

"Of course, Sir." Tas replied. He hadn't had a chance to see much of the Elysium up until now and so a tour whilst meeting Liducca was welcome. He stepped out into the corridor with the Lieutenant and asked, "How long have you served aboard, Sir?"

"Nto that long as it happens. A month at most, so even I'm still getting used to where everything is and what the whole set up is capable of." She responded frankly as they stepped into the corridor, and she tried to work out what the best order was to do the tour in, before defaulting to stellar Cartography as her first port of call. "Thankfully people like Dec and a few other of the enlisted techs have been around for a while. Advice point Number One, be nice to Lab techs, they know where everything is."

Tas concurred with the senior officer as he looked around. He basked in the buzz that a Starship enjoys before departure, listening out to the sounds of crewman excitedly discussing their first mission, repair teams patching up last-minute refits to the minor systems, computer read outs of technical data. It was exactly the fresh start that Tas had wanted. After most of his life on Risa, then Bajor and then a space station, he had enjoyed very little of the advantages of warp technology; being able to explore and discover. He was pleased that the Elysium would give him the chance to do so.

As they came to Stellar Cartography, Tas inquired of Liducca, "If you don't mind my asking Sir, what is your own specialism?"

"Hey that's my line." DyheI stated before smiling and the hooking her thumb at the door. "This stuff, Stellar Cartography, and a little Astrometrics. Started out as a assistant technician on one of the old Steamrunner-Class worked my way up. There's just something about how things work and interact that I find captivatting." She enthused, her natural love and fascination bubbling to the surface, she strove to resigned it in a little by returning the question. "And yourself, what's your field of choice? What gets you?"

The young Risian drank in the new information and smiled politely. "I actually just did a stint in Astrometrics on DS3." he replied, glad to have something in common with his superior. "Though, it's more of a minor for me." he admitted. "Xenogeology is my forté. Stems from my work on Risa's climate control science. I find the make-up of planets and their geography fascinating."

"Interesting, from what I understand while the Gamma Quadrant has been charted, many of the planets and stellar bodies have not been studied in any great depth." Dyhei commented with genuine interest, her thrill of having something new to go at was evident, as was having someone in the department who would be well used during missions. Having thumbed the door control as they spoke she gestured inside. "Well as you can see, this is quite extensive, it occupies two decks worth of space and is three sixty and fully holographic display, rivals starbase setups so I'm told." She added with a beaming smile, allowing Solani an opportunity to have nosey it he wanted, while asking "How did you come about working with the Risian weather net? It's quite specialised I understand?"

"It certainly does," replied Tas, taking in the impressive structure. "My whole department on DS3 was half this size." he said. The room was impressive and Tas was quick to take note of geological and ecological data being displayed on information panels to one side of the holographic planetoids. He knew he was going to like it here.

"This data the system is processing can then be sent to other specialist labs on the ship?" he asked. He had spotted Geotech, hydraulic and topographic labs on the Elysium readouts and was keen to see what they could do. He may even have some ideas of how they could be utilised to their max but he would wait until he got to know Liducca first, some department heads were touchy about newbies suggesting changes immediately.

"Absolutely it can. To be honest it's something I've always tried to encourage, specialisms that share a common source of interest to share data,we get a better more complete picture that way." Dyhei admitted in responce to the question, she fervently believed in the free flow and free exchange of information. "There plenty of process by it'll in to facilitate that, but they can always be improved right?" At this point she realised she could bounce from one lab to the next, rambling as she did or find a lab that he'd interest for the man so she asked. "Have you read up on the ship at all, is there anything you'd like to see next?"

Like music to his ears, Solani jumped at the chance to broach the subject of the specialist labs. "Actually, I did clock that you had Geotech, hydro and topographic labs on Deck 45. I'll admit I've been itching to see them." he replied eagerly.

"Let's go and have a look then, there's a turbolift point on the corner." She responded positively, stepping back into the corridor and waiting for Tas to join her, as they walked she admitted. "I haven't actually been down there yet, for one as far as I was aware we've had no specialists in those fields up until now, for two I'm still learning the facilities at my disposal having only bean aboard just over a month."

Tas smiled at his new superior officer. "I'm pleased to have given you the excuse to take a peek, Sir." he replied. They made their way down to the turbolift and stopped at Deck 45.

Most of Deck 45 was the Starfighter Wing's facilities so they needed to walk a while to get to the specialist labs.

"You know," Tas said as they made their way down, "the combined processing power of the specialised computers in the four labs down here would be quite something if they could collectively process data collected by Stellar Cartography."

"I suppose it would." Dyhei responded with a flicker of smile. "Do I detect a recent brainwave or something that been percolating since you looked up the specs?" She asked hoping to draw out whatever he was thinking of.

Tas paused. He considered whether or not he should mention anything, he had barely even seen the place yet. It had been his intention to wait and so he decided to hold off for now. He laughed it off warmly, "Oh just letting my imagination go a little. If it's all the same to you, Sir, I'll spend a few days getting to know the team and then bring a formal plan to you."

"Sounds like a sensible idea, I've been though that transition myself recently so I understand where your coming from." The hybrid officer agreed as they finally made there way to the section that housed the labs in question. "Maybe a look round will help the imagination, please, ease be my guest."

The Topographic Engineering lab was much bigger than Tas had been expecting. The middle displayed a 3D holoimaging table with what appeared to be a desert landscape created on top of it. Tas was impressed by the display but immediately starting making connections in his head about how it could be used.

"Lieutenant, I have a proposal for you...." he started.

Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be - Guess who's coming to dinner?

A Mission Post by Ensign Tasinder Solani & Lieutenant Commander Sthilg & Crewman Recruit K'Otek

Mission: Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be

Location: Solani's Quarters, Deck 15

Timeline: MD4, 1900

Tas was pleased that the CMO, Dr Sthilg, had agreed to dinner. It was especially challenging joining an established crew when there didn't seem to be many new crewmembers that he had come across so far. Hosting and making people feel welcome was a natural part of his Risian identity, Risa being a pleasure planet known for being particularly welcoming of offworlders.

He took the time to prepare a Klingon meal with his best know-how (and a bit of guidance from K'Otek). K'Otek didn't usually cook but for this, he made an exception. He had a natural curiosity about Sthilg's time in the KDF.

The gorn doctor had finished his shift down in medbay before heading to his dinner. Pressing the door alarm the gorn politely stated. " It's Sthilg."

Tas greeted the Doctor warmly and beckoned him inside. "Happy you can join us, Doctor. We were just viewing a recorded transmission of the Risian Hoverball final if you'd care to watch?"

" Not a fan of the sssport, but you can leave it on. I don't mind." The gorn replied politely.

Tas escorted the Gorn to the seating area while K'Otek joined them.

"So Doctor," the Klingon started eagerly. "Tasinder tells me you served in the KDF? I imagine the work was more thrilling than a federation ship. Less blood in the sickbay?" he asked with a sharp-toothed grin.

" We certainly had more injuries down in the sssickbay. Oh, the amount of timesss I had to kick the cook out so I could work. I misss the Klingtonk. Ssshe was a fine vesssle. " The gorn responded.

K'Otek laughed loudly. "The best measure of a Klingon crew is how busy the doctor is," he grinned once more. He poured three glasses of blood wine out and raised his goblet high. "To past victories and the stories yet to be told."

" kaplah." The gorn replied in his best Klingon. " To long gone friendsss. May they find peace in the great beyond."

The trio drank and put their goblets down and Tas beckoned them to the table. He had prepared a buffet of Klingon food so the Doctor could choose what he preferred to eat. He took a slice of Rokeg Blood Pie and asked the Gorn, "A move from KDF to Starfleet is quite a jump, Doctor. Was that a hard decision to make?"

" It'sss always hard sssaying goodbye, but i had no one to keep me in the empire. The lassst of my house had entered ssstovokor during the domnion war and my contract with the KDF had ended. " The gorn replied as he took a small selection of food. His voice showed a clear sign of sadness and loss.

"I'm sorry," Tas replied in a quiet voice. "I didn't mean to..."

" No need to apologize. They will alwaysss be with me along the long road of my life." The gorn said tapping his chest where his heart was located.

K'Otek, who had been hovering behind watching the exchange, stepped forward and slapped Sthilg across the Gorn's back. "Aha!" he cried. "You have a warrior's spirit, Doctor." The tall Klingon, winked at Tas, who was still slightly nervous about having induced such an emotional impact on his dinner guest. The young Risian smiled back and tried to shake off the feeling, focusing on his Risian need to play the good host.

"I find Starfleet daunting for those who have served elsewhere first," Tas continued. "I came from a civillian background, myself. You didn't get the diversity of culture and experience that Starfleet officers, even on as diverse a world as Risa."

" I'm a doctor. Not much difference in my line of work. People always need putting back together and life needsss to be brought into the world." The gorn replied taking a sip from the blood wine.

"A universal constant, I'm sure," Tas agreed. "Agh," he moaned aloud, pausing to look at the holoviewer. "Looks like T'Matrec of Vulcan is set to win again this year."

K'Otek grinned, showing his sharp teeth once more. "Only this round. He'll be up against Cetheril'sh th'Ronam of Andoria next. She was trained on Kronos. Much deadlier variant of Hoverball, isn't that right Doctor?"

" Indeed." The gorn replied as they watched the game. " The amount of times I had to patch up the family or Jinalli stand as a testament to that."

The trio sat on the lougne chairs, wriggling gagh on their plates, for a few moments watching the game, enjoying the sight of the impressive T'Matrec run rings around his opposition in the arena. The game was fairly one-sided but provided sufficient light entertainment and conversation for them them as they ate.

Suddenly, Tas' eyes were met with an instant moment of complete darkness. He stood but by the time he was on his feet, the lights were back on. He glanced at the holoviewer but it showed nothing but static.

K'Otek tapped at a panel on the wall, "The data link is gone. The whole game lost. Damn weak Starfleet engineering!" he cursed.

The gorn tapped his wrist computer. It was still working so it must have been the computer. He was about to say something when it did bleep with an alert. " Sssorry gentleman, but they need me down in sssickbay. Thank you for the food. We shall have to do this again. " He said politely as he stood up.

After the Doctor had left, Tas looked over the computer panel that operated the holoviewer. Unsatisfied, he started to take it apart.

Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be - Flirting with Flowers

A Mission Post by Lieutenant JG Shiannah Shannas & 1st Lieutenant Michael Andrews

Mission: Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be

Location: Arboretum

Timeline: 1900 hours

Corporal Don Dulaney looked over the Arboretum. It was spectacular with multi hued plants and varying sizes of trees and bushes. The scents of lilac, lavender, honeysuckle and jasmine were the stronger ones... to him anyway. His head in the rainbow clouds, he didn't see her til it was too late. "Oh. I'm terribly sorry, Lieutenant. I wasn't paying attention " he said, dropping the flowers he'd picked earlier.

Shiannah looked up, lost in the reverie of her thoughts and memories, suddenly surprised to be surrounded by multi-hued blooms and petals tubling to the decking. She looked at the officer who'd bumped into her, a tall bloody towerings the word she thought, looking up at the tall Marine Officer whom she wasn't aquainted with though had seen in briefings.

"No problem, 1st Lieutenant" Shiannah replied, as ever a glass of wine in her hand. "Lt JG Shiannah Shannas, Intel section" she introduced herself.

Don looked a bit amused at her. "Lieutenant. I'm only a corporal. Andrews is the 1st luey. I'm just a lacky compared to him and the sarge" he said.

"I like it here... every ship should have an Aboretum" Shiannah mused as she looked around. "Makes it all so less... mundane"

Don looked around again but his eyes were drawn back to Shiannah. "I'd have to whole heartedly agree, ma'am. I could find a little peace and solace here myself " he smiled at her.

Shiannah winced inwardly at the 'ma'am' reference though, she knew, that the Corporal was only being polite as to her rank rather than her age... Or so she hoped. Her hazel eyes were drawn across the multi-deck deep Arboretum and the mixed personnel milling about the various area, cafes and other refreshment places.

"Peace, I have found, can be somewhat over-rated" Shiannah quiped as she paraphrased an old Cardassian saying she'd overheard on a few occasions.

"Maybe. Lieutenant, but with peace comes prosperity. I know war only brings prosperity to one side. To the victor go the spoils, I believe " he tried to smile at her. It was out of respect he referred to her as 'ma'am'. Age didn't matter to him.

"I was on Bajor during the occupation... Long story so I won't go into the gory details... The Cardassians 'won' and occupied the planet and system for many years yet, from what I saw and have learnt since, the 'spoils of war' whatever they were, it was not worth the cost" Shiannah said seriously with a sigh as her thoughts drifted back to those terrible and troubled years. Then, with a slightly strained smile, she tried to lighten the mood. "Would you accompany... How may I say it? A more 'experienced' lady for a drink?"

Don smiled at her. The Cardassian occupation of Bajor was a troubling time for everyone. He may have only been a corporal but even he could see the hurt in her eyes. He reached up and took her hand. "Only if you call me Don, Shiannah" he said then offered her his arm.

"Thanks... Don" though she patted his hand though didn't take his arm, hoping he wasn't offended though she wasn't looking for a relationship more than friends at the moment Life is too complicated enough at present... though when is is not? she thought as they walked together.

Shiannah walked across the Aboretum, marvelling at the display of flora on a functioning SF ship... more like a restive garden than a ship of the line. She wondered what her old Cardassian mentor would have thought of such a gaudy display? The aged Gul, wherever he was, would have no doubt laughed at the waste and would have constantly moaned about what he saw as SF unneeded frivolity.

She stepped towards a bar and ordered a white wine from the human barman and turned to Dulaney. "What do you fancy?" she asked politely.

She was quite fetching and he was enjoying her company. "I'll have a glass of cabernet, please and thank you " he responded with another eager smile.

Shiannah raised an eyebrow and returned his smile. "And there was me thinking all you military types were beer drinkers!" she said with mock surprise though she ordered the drink. "How are you finding it on the Elysium... For me it's a bit more relaxed than some of my previous postings" she added.

"This is actually only my second post. My first was on Camp Archer on Mars as a rifleman. Lots of action there. It's one of the main training centers in the Federation " he said then cleared his throat. "Thank you for the drink. Not all marines drink beer, Lieutenant" he said then handed her the flowers."I was going to put these by my bunk in the barracks but I think they'll be better off with you " he smiled, putting one in her hair, behind her ear

Shiannah nodded her head and smiled though she thought the young man was a bit presumptious Gods i'll be blushing in a minute she thought to herself as she sipped her drink again.

"I've been to Mars though, unfortunately not to Camp Archer" Shiannah mused, absentmindedly brushing her fingers through her long hair though making sure she did nor loosen the scented bloom behind her ear. "Actually, in my youth a few years ago... though I'd be pleased if you did not mention it... I climbed the southern fissures of Olympus Mons. Which, by the way, is not that difficult in the lighter Martian gravity. An old... friend of mine was an accomplished climber" Shiannah explained.

Don listened to Shiannah. "My lips are sealed, Lieutenant. I never went to Olympus Mons. Studied some metallurgy in Red Rock Canyon though "

"Now, if you like climbing, the rim of the Rhiasilvia crater on the asteroid Vesta is a real challenge... perhaps you'd care to on join me on the holodeck one day? I have holo programs saved of both Mars and Vista " Shiannah asked with an open invite.

"That would be an awesome day. I look forward to it, Shiannah. Good thing I'm not afraid of heights, right?" He grinned at her.

"With the asteroid's 5 hour rotation and... tricky gravity well, it can be something of an experience" Shiannah explained just as she heard her coms beep that she had an incoming message. She finished her drink and nodded to the Corporal. "Unfortunately, Don, it seems that work beckons... We do keep rather irregular hours in the Intel section" she said. "It was nice to meet you... Don and let me know when you're free for that 'date' in the holodeck and I'll book some deck time"

"Oh I will.Shiannah... i will. I look forward to it" he grinned. Hoping she'd offer a kiss.

Shiannah left the bar and, after a few paces, glanced over her shoulder to see if the young Corporal was still watching her... She smiled when she caught his eye and winked. Turning back she strode away towards the turbolifts.

Don was heart struck as she sauntered away then winked. All he could do was grin back and wink. His next adventure was going to be exciting.

Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be - Where we Stand

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

Mission: Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be

Location: Main Engineering

Timeline: MD4 - 19h00

Liselle Qwyyn blew out a heavy sigh as she stepped off of the turbolift at deck 38. Her mind was afire with a thousand fluttering embers as she made her way into main Engineering. She wasn't entirely sure what she was doing; but she had reached a point where her building notions of second guessing herself had finally overwhelmed her self-doubt.

Standing in Engineering now, she held her PADD to her chest as she turned about, looking to catch a glimpse of him.

Matias was thinking of Liselle. Why was he so attracted to her? They seemed to have been going in circles trying to meet, but never had gotten around to it. But then, there she was. "Welcome to Main Engineering, Commander." he said.

"Lieutenant," she greeted him with a nod. "I -- um -- before you were -- there were these flight assessments? What I mean is that I wanted to show everyone -- I mean, I need to assess everyone for flying -- not the ship, but you know...the shuttles? Gods, of course you know the shuttles --" she took a deep breath, releasing it slowly. "Sorry," she said sheepishly. She hugged her PADD tightly to her. "I get like that sometimes when I'm nervous. What I was trying to say was -- is there maybe somewhere we can talk?"

The Commander saw she was nervous. He had made it a point according to the custom of his people never to look a superior in the eye, as that constituted a challenge. He wanted to put her at ease, as she was usually very confident. "Of course, Commander," he said. "Let's go to my office." He led the way. He also felt nervous, but tried not to let it show.

For her part, Liselle didn't understand his unwillingness to look directly at her. All the better that she had come down here in the first place. Her suspicions were obviously correct, and it was time to say something to him about them. "Lieutenant," she began slowly. She set her PADD down on his desk and turned back to look at him -- though still he avoided eye contact with her. "I want to tell you something, and it's not going to be easy for me to say."

"Please, go ahead," he said. He wasn't a telepath or empath like some races, but with his animal nature, he could read another's body language very well. It was often a matter of survival for his kind. He saw his habit somehow made her nervous. "Forgive me, Commander, it's bred into me never to look another, especially a superior, in the eye. Among us Grral, it is considered very rude unless we wish to challenge them. But please, go ahead." He leaned against the desk waiting.

"On Risa. During the away mission," she began, "you remember how I suggested that we pose as couples? Of course you remember that. What I mean is -- what I'm trying to say is -- I just wanted to apologize to you. I have a hard time reading people sometimes. Okay, all the time. Naturally, it's an extra challenge when it's with a brand new lifeform like yourself, and I got the sense that you were uncomfortable. Really uncomfortable. I hope you realize that it was just for the sake of the mission, and that I didn't mean to disrespect you or anything," she said. "I just don't want us to get off on the wrong foot in our professional relationship."

Matias looked down on the floor. "I understand," he said. "But it wasn't you I was uncomfortable with. It was me. It was reminding me of the mate I lost in death back on Grral. I miss her so, and it is why I left my home to start anew here in this galaxy and on this ship. I was trying to forget, but you remind me of her. It awakened feelings I had forgotten. I know you weren't trying to disrespect me." He looked up and at her for a brief second before looking away again. Tears were in his eyes. "It taught me that I have to face my feelings and not run away from them as I have been doing. It's the only way I can recover. Forgive me for as humans say, baring my soul to you. I know it was just an act, but it was becoming real to me, and I was afraid." He wiped his eyes on his sleeve.

He continued. "This won't get in the way of our professional relationship, however, not unless you want it to be."

Liselle blinked. She swallowed. Something was happening here, and she wasn't at all certain how she felt about it. She swallowed again. She needed to talk to someone, to help her understand what was happening, what she was feeling. She needed Dyhei or Phoenix. "I - I don't know what to say," she finally managed. "I actually mean that. I'm terrible at saying the right thing. Expect me to say the wrong thing any moment now." She was hugging the PADD so close to her now that she nearly thought it possible she might break it. What was he saying? What wasn't he saying? "I didn't mean to bring up painful memories. I seem to do that to people a lot lately. I ask too many questions. I want to ask you a thousand questions right now, to be honest. I find you absolutely fascinating. I've never met anyone like --" She stopped herself. She was going to mess this up, and she didn't want to. She looked away from him. "I should probably go."

"Sit down, please," said Matias, sitting down himself in a chair and opening his hand to another. "You are safe with me. I felt safe to confide in you about my feelings. He was trying to make her comfortable. "It appears we both have a lot to talk about, but I won't press you. I find you fascinating as well. And you're doing fine. I don't find you saying anything wrong." He couldn't have her go in that state. He hoped to get her composed. "If you want to go, you can, or stay if you prefer. Just take it slow, and you'll be all right."

She couldn't help but blush as she sat. Though Qwyyn desperately felt the need to fit in, and tried much too hard to do so most of the time, she just as easily found herself feeling uncomfortable, awkward even, whenever someone made an effort in that regard for her. She tucked a loose lock of hair behind one ear, and she looked up at him. "You haven't been in this galaxy very long, or even on this ship for that matter. I'm sure everything here seems new and exciting. Gods, I remember what it was like when I finally got off my homeworld," she said with a nostalgic sigh. "There are a lot of things you don't know about me -- things that in my people's experience often doesn't sit well with a lot of other species. More than that, I'm worried that you might be latching on to some of the first people you've met here. Which is not a problem. I mean, that's good. We all like you. I...like you. But...I don't know if I'm the person you think I am."

"That is what I would like to find out," said Matias. "I've been around too much in my galaxy and yours to rush into anything. I'd like to take it slow. I've been cautious myself, and I have been unsure whether I fit in around here. I would like to get to know you, and maybe you could get to know me in time. You should have seen how long it took for me to get to know my beloved Mrranno. People thought we would never get together. It's like this ancient Terran song I recently heard.

We've been traveling in circles

Sucn a long long time

Trying to say hello...

I'll meet you halfway

It's better than no way

we have find some way to get together..."

He didn't share the rest of that Partridge Family song, but went to the main point. "I'm willing to take my time as I'm sure you want to."

Qwyyn wore an ear to ear grin as she listened to him recite the lyrics. When he had finished she closed her eyes and nodded. "That was very sweet," she said genuinely. "I wish I had some gesture equally as touching to offer you. Actually, there is this --" she took her PADD from her chest and turned it around so that he could see its contents. "Flight assessments," she explained with a laugh. "The oldest damn excuse that flight control has in its book to start a conversation. I really did want to talk to you. I had to force myself to just get my butt down here and start talking. And I'm glad I did."

Matias saw it and laughed. "K'rrama zogath murrrr," he said, quoting a Grral proverb. "Let any event spark a renewal." as he translated. "I'm glad you did come so we could bring this out in the open. We have some things in common already. Some of my Engineering crew call me the big bad wolf. I hope to show you that I'm not." He grinned.

She shared the smile. "I promise to give you a chance to escape all of my preconceived notions," she agreed. "But whatever you may or may not know about the Trill, I want you to hold off on reading anything more. The Starfleet dossiers on my world are a little...clinical. Off-putting, to say the least. Promise me you'll let me explain what my people are all about."

"I will. And too getting to know me, when so little is known about the Grral, will be interesting. Getting to know each other, not just stories about each other is half the fun." He patted her hand as he said it.

Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be - Senior Staff Dinner

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Jaeih t’Noramei-McKinley & Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Commander Gary Taylor & Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Commander Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Commander Tate Sullivan Ph.D. & Lieutenant Commander Sthilg & Lieutenant Commander Dyhei Liducca & Lieutenant Dante Xithia & 1st Lieutenant Michael Andrews

Mission: Episode 3: Such as we are made of, such we be

Location: Deck 4, Captain's Formal Dining Room

Timeline: MD5 20H00

Phoenix had needed to do this now. She needed to get her senior staff in a place where they could all relax and get to know each other. With a number of new faces, mingling with the not so new and the old timers, of which, she realized was two, her and Qwynn, she needed to get them to at least acknowledge each other.

So she invited Senior staff only, to the newly refurbished Captain's Formal Dining room. She had, had it changed from Starfleet formal to a more relaxed atmosphere, with less harsh lighting, and the chairs around the large circular wooden table were comfortable. At one end was a number of low couches around low coffee tables for pre dinner conversation. It was there, she sat, a glass of wine in her hand as she waited for the senior staff to appear.

Gary had received the summons to come to the Captain's Formal Dining Room. He was curious as to the reason, so after checking to make sure he looked presentable, wiping away invisible dust and smoothing wrinkles out of his uniform and checking to make sure he didn't have anything stuck between his teeth, he headed for his destination. Arriving, he entered and saw Phoenix already there with a glass of something in her hand. "Is it that bad Captain that you're drinking already?" He gently joked with her.

She smiled. "No it's not because of anything bad." She waved him to have a seat. "I figured it was time to have dinner with the senior staff. Without partners. Just the senior staff." The coffee tables were covered in pre-dinner snacks and on a sideboard were a number of different beverages.

Gary took a seat in one of the chairs across from her. "A get to know you dinner?" He prompted then continued, "Makes sense to me. Should be enlightening." As he leaned forward and took a couple of cheese covered crackers. "Have to say the arrangement is most impressive and lends itself to a more relaxed get-together."

"Indeed." She grinned. "And it has been a while for some since they have relaxed."

He plopped a cracker into his mouth, and after chewing and swallowing, "Good." He smiled at her, "Like you?" He ventured as he ate the other cracker.

"Among others" She admitted. "I never expected to be granted the full command of this ship. hell, I never expected Sharr to do what he did, but I have a crew that depends on me, and I am glad to be able to say that the crew is handling the changes well and that this time, for the senior staff to chill out and such is needed."

"You deserve to be Captain, Phoenix. You've handled the stress and the responsibility of being Captain, remarkably well." He was about to say more when the dining room doors hissed open and Dr. Sthilg entered.

For the ships doctor being called to the captains was a rather pleasant change from his after shift paperwork. Making sure his uniform was clean he ducked below the doors top and stepped into the formal dining room. " Captain, lieutenant commander it's good to sssee you. " He said politely.

Turning in his chair, Gary greeted the CMO, "Hello Doctor." He answered pleasantly.

Phoenix smiled at the Doctor. "Please come in, sit down and relax Doctor."

The gorn smiled as politely as his reptilian face could allow before he slowly lowered himself into one of the chairs. After making sure it would hold him he reached for a few of the crackers. " Well, you'll be pleasssed to know the crew isss in a very good ssstate of health." He said as one of the crackers vanished into his mouth.

Matias was next to come in. He was dressed in his finest as he got the invitation to the Formal Dining Room. He saw the crackers and took one.

Liselle followed soon after. She had spent an inordinate amount of time in front of the mirror to ensure her hair was absolutely perfect before arriving. Normally an hour or two before duty shift was enough time to ensure that her presentation was as perfect as could be, but in a more intimate setting like this, she was extra careful in addressing every last detail of her appearance. She stood awkwardly by the door, unsure of where to put herself.

"Those crackers are good Mr. Matias," Gary told the CEO then saw Liselle enter and stand by the door. "Liselle! Come on over here and join the crowd." He said to the Chief Flight Control Officer. "You have to try these crackers."

She smiled, despite herself, blushing with embarrassment and appreciation. You're a lucky girl, Lia, she thought. She walked over to the table and took a handful of crackers into one hand, though she didn't eat. Instead, Qwyyn turned to Phoenix. "Everything looks just lovely, Captain."

Lia entered and stood looking at everyone in their dress uniforms, she wasn't in her dress uniform. "Sorry Captain, I don't yet have a dress uniform. I'll retire from this official dinner and resume my duties on the bridge". She was dressed in a long blue dress with a white bolero jacket and black court shoes, her com badge was placed on the jacket collar. She smiled at the assembled senior staff and made to leave, her embarrassment clear for all to see.

Gary was up and at her side in an instant. "You'll do no such thing! You're second officer and a member of the senior staff and you are staying. " He took her hand and led her to where the others were. "Try the crackers. They are fantastic!"

She looked between Gary and the Captain, "I don't think you have the rank to make that choice Commander, it's up to the Captain. And I will abide by her ruling". She stood at attention and awaited the Captain's answer.

Gary scowled at her, "Why are you being difficult Lia? You're a senior officer on this ship. Do you honestly think the Captain doesn't want you here?"

Lia shook her head, "I'm incorrectly dressed, and I'm only here by the Captain's request. If she feels I haven't made an effort, she is at liberty to ask me to leave. Despite the wish to remain, Gary, I have to be told by her. I'm not being difficult, only diplomatic".

"You are being difficult and stubborn Lia. There is no dress code. why can't you just accept this and have a good time?" Gary told her.

"Then why is everyone else in Dress Uniforms?" She asked, "I was under the impression when I entered that there WAS a dress code, that's why I said what I did". She now felt really stupid, why did Gary seem to enjoy doing this to her?

"You know what? I want you to stay but if you don't then I won't. It's as simple as that. I don't want you to feel like you're being singled out. I don't understand why you can't see that."

Lia went and sat down, she decided that an argument was not the thing to do. She would sort this out later, quietly between themselves.

Phoenix raised an eyebrow at the end of the 'discussion' Something was definitely going on here. But she forced her face to remain calm. "Well now that is settled, we are still awaiting a few members of our group. Once they arrive, we can get started," she said brightly.

As she waited she looked around and saw how well Liselle and the Wolf were getting on, oO Those two are going to really hit it off Oo she thought.

Wondering what all the fuss had been about and feeling slightly thankful it had descended into the way of the KDF of settling things the gorn grinned slightly as he slowly sipped on some water. Wiping his mouth with a napkin given his mouth wasn't built to work with humanoid glasses. " Hasss anyone heard any newsss from back in the Federation. I don't get to hear much down in the medbay." The reptile asked hoping to move people away from the recent outburst.

As Dyhei entered it was clear she'd managed the fashionably late thing without too much effort, which was more down to her not great organisation skills than any design or hers. But still a party was a party and even if her wild days were gone, she still liked the social part of these things, in keeping with this she'd gone for the almost cliché little black dress but kept it the right side of elegant. She entered in time to hear the big Gorns Federation events question, to which she volunteers this useless tact. "Well I here jumbo tube grubs are up in price, dry spells on some farms affected the size of some, and the Ferengi are being Ferengi about that. Apparently, it's serious, if you like tube grubs!" She added a smirk to lighten her fact

Michael showed up to Lalor's dinner. He was still sort of new here so considered it an honor to be invited. "Greetings everyone, " he said to those assembled.

"Ah Lieutenant, come and sit down with everyone," Phoenix waved him into the group.

Lia sat and munched on the crackers, she decided they were not bad and resolved to liberate some when the party was over. She glanced round as the room filled up, Gary didn't seem to care for her company.

Gary walked over to where Lia sat munching crackers. Coming up behind her, he reached around to grab a cracker as he sat down beside her. "See? these are good." He said starting a conversation. "You look very good by the way."

She looked up at him, "I try to look good, don't always get it right. Have I upset you lately? You seem a bit off, or are you still put out over the nebula thing?" She turned to face him as he sat down, "I thought we'd put our differences aside on the holodeck, or have I said or done something else I'm not aware of?" Lia looked at the floor and fiddled with a cracker, "I don't want to fight, but I don't want to have to walk on egg shells every time we meet. I think our little argument may have caught the Captain's eye, what do we tell her if she asks?" Looking back up, she smiled slightly. "If we intend to be a couple we need to trust one another, but we also need to support one another no matter what. And losing it over dress codes or any other misunderstanding isn't the way to go". She spoke quietly and directly. Lia knew Gary may take this all the wrong way but she had to put her side of it, "Why don't we start this evening again and this time we do so as a couple, and we both swallow our pride and support the other?" She smiled at Gary and hoped he understood.

Gary listened as Lia spoke. One thing he was and that was a good listener and he waited for her to finish before replying. "You got it right and no the nebula is water under the bridge." He looked at her and spoke with a quiet intensity. "I don't want to fight either and I definitely don't want to walk on egg shells." He looked in the Captain's direction and shrugged, "Why do we have to tell her anything? It is a private matter between us and leave it at that." He paused and grabbed another of her crackers. "I want us to be a couple and I've always have supported and trusted you." He added simply. "This wasn't about the dress code Lia,it was about me wanting you to stay and be here with me and me feeling as if you were fighting me for wanting you here." He smiled at her "As for starting the evening again and swallowing our pride, I say that is an excellent idea."

Smiling Lia leaned forward, "Oh one more thing Gary". She pointed at her bowl of crackers, "These are mine, go get your own crackers". She started to giggle and hugged the bowl closer, almost daring Gary to try and take another cracker. Lia was glad they sorted their problem out, now she could relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.

A fake pout came to his face, "Now Lia, part of being a couple is sharing." He said as he reached for the bowl to get a cracker. Her giggle sounding like music to his ears. Like Lia, he was glad they had weathered this first little storm. Now a relaxing and fun evening beckoned.

Passing the table of snacks and drinks, Dyhei picked up a drink something fruity and non-alcoholic, on her way across the room. She made a beeline for Liselle, giving a little wave and smile as she approached. "Not a bad place this isn't it, boss lady sure has an eye for the not your average that for sure. So how have you been Liselle?" She asked

Matias was munching on some crackers and then got a drink himself. He saw what Dyhei got and it smelled good, so he got it. He wondered if this was the extent of the dinner.

"Good evening, all" Dante greeted as he lumbered through the threshold of the room. Opting for something a comfortable, yet formal, Dante had chosen to wear a pair of black skinnies, a slim-fit gray shirt, a casual dinner jacket and a bow tie. He also wore a dark tan belt that matched his brogues. He hobbled over to the congregation and grabbed himself something alcoholic, "Lieutenant Dante Xithia, reporting and hungry" he smirked.

Jaeih entered silently, still fuming over the sudden departure of the now former chief of Operations which had shoved her back into her former role. She was going to speak with Phoenix about it at another time. She was dressed down in jeans and a tank top as she headed for a glass of wine.

Tate entered the Captain's dining room wearing a simple blue sundress and a pair of beige sandals with wedges. It wasn't very often she was out of uniform, but when she had the opportunity, she liked to be comfortable and to explore her feminine side. She had been somewhat of a tomboy growing up, but enjoyed embracing all sides of herself, whether that was her femininity or her capacity for empathy.

She smiled at the people who met her eye as she entered, just taking a moment to absorb the sights and sounds. She generally preferred one-on-one or smaller gatherings, but she recognized this would be a good opportunity to get to know everyone a little bit and to see how the group dynamic played out overall.

Sullivan relaxed in the more informal environment and took the opportunity to grab a raspberry lemonade.

Phoenix did a headcount and nodded with satisfaction. That was everyone. She stood and cleared her throat and held up a hand for silence. "Ladies and Gentlemen, Thank you for coming." She waved a hand to the large table, circular in nature. "Please take a seat. It does not matter who you sit next to." So saying, Phoenix led the way to the table.

Grabbing Gary's hand, Lia headed for the table. "Come on slow poke, let's get settled before the rush". She giggled again like a school girl, "I think middle of the table should be the best place, what do you think?" She looked at Gary.

Gary's fingers wrapped gently around Lia's hand as he felt a rush of emotion at the softness of her skin. Her giggle sounding so delightful, so refreshing. as she led him toward the table. "Sounds good to me." He answered in agreement.

Liselle sighed as she noticed the gesture.

Dante quietly made his way to the seat next to the head. The position would provide him with the best view of the others. This would mark the first time he'd been provided the opportunity to witness their team socialise outside of work. He was intrigued to see what he would learn.

Once everyone was seated, Phoenix glanced to the back of the room, and the large low rectangular table beside the back wall was slowly filling up with food by servers from the kitchen. "I figured that a smorgasbord would be an idea. I had the chef prepare a number of different dishes across all cultures represented here and even some that are not, like Klingon. I will admit that your culture Matias and mine took some doing, as yours is so far away, and mine rarely exports things. But you should find a variety of foods to try and enjoy. So help yourselves. There is also a selection of different beverages from Earth, Betazed, Vulcan and even a smuggled bottle of Huey wine from my home world... it's as about as potent as Romulan ale." she added to warn them about the golden beverage. "After we have eaten, I would request though your indulgences while I make some announcements." she grinned and then stood. "But that is for after we eat!"

Lia sat and thought about what to eat, this could be problematical. How could she check about tomatoes, she headed for one of the servers.

Gary rose and followed Lia. He was curious to see just what Phoenix had the servers prepare. He was especially curious to see if gagh and perhaps a bottle of Bloodwine had made it to the table.

Dante followed the pair eagerly, hoping some of his favourite Betazoid meals had managed to make their way into the captain's menu. His time on Betazed had led to him eating mostly Betazoid meals, and he'd left with a taste. He quickly spied a delicious looking side salad filled with Oskoid leaves, a Betazoid delicacy that made the consumer feel warm. He also witnessed a small bottle of Uttaberry wine.

As he grabbed what he wanted, he smiled appreciatively at the effort their Captain had put into the dinner.

Matias was glad to see some of his native foods. He also liked the look of the Klingon rokeg blood pie and got some as well. He got what he wanted and sat down at the table.

Arriving at the server, Lia pointed and asked. "Which ones don't have tomatoes in them?" The server waved his hand over most of the dishes, Lia helped herself to what looked like chicken. She then picked and prodded at various other dishes before returning to the table with quite a large meal, she looked for Gary he seemed to be down by the Klingon selection.

Gary was down at the Klingon section. He had grabbed a bottle of Bloodwine and after mulling over whether to get some gagh or not he passed. He didn't want Lia smelling that on his breath so he got a slice of blood pie and made his way back up the table getting some what he hoped was roast beef and mashed potatoes and a roll before making his way back to where Lia was, he sat down.

She glanced at Gary's meal, "Oh I seem to have a date with a Klingon warrior, just don't think you're going to use your mating rituals on this little lady. My Broad Sword is more than a match for your Bat'leth, or even your Klingon sword". Lia smiled as she spoke, knowing Gary admired Klingon rituals and weaponry. ''

"Who me?" Gary replied teasingly. Leaning toward Lia he whispered, "I wouldn't think of such. The only mating rituals I'll use on you are the ones for a proper lady such as yourself. Besides my Bat'leth is being cleaned."

There was an empty space beside Matias. He also had some fried chicken on his plate and something they called cool slaw or something like that. He also had a burrito. He had what looked like a beer with it.

Having loaded up her plate with a little bit from each selection of cuisine, causing two thing quite a large portions size and as she would dis covered towards the end of her meal a congealed mass at the center. Dyhei looked for a place to sit and as it happened there was one by the wolfman chief engineer, the hybrid slid self down into the chair. " I had trouble deciding." She said to him with a smile. "Looks like earth cooking there, how are you finding it?"

-About an hour or so later -

After they had all eaten and relaxed around the table, Phoenix stood and waved an ensign into the room. The Ensign carried a tray with 6 small boxes on it. "Now for fun." She quipped. "If I can have everyone's attention please."

Gary turned in his chair,smiling at Lia as he did so he could see better to what Phoenix had planned next for the evenings activities.

Lia looked puzzled at the tray with the boxes, "Ah Gary, you got any idea just what she got planed?" Somehow Lia didn't think this was gonna be fun, but hey she was the Captain.

An infuriating smile was plastered on his face as he quickly changed the subject, "Sssshhhhhh!. Captain is going to talk and I don't want to miss what she has to say."

"Jeez, little miss goody two shoes", Lia fired back.

Phoenix looked at the two of them. "Do you two want us to wait?" She asked curiously.

"Sorry Captain, just curious. And trying to get a handle on what you had planed, no disrespect intended", Lia said openly.

"Patience grasshopper." Gary said softly.

Taking a breath, Phoenix took the tray and dismissed the ensign with a soft thanks. She placed the tray before her on the table and picked up a box. She held it in her right hand and looked out at the senior staff "Being captain of this ship, was never expected, but it is an honor I intend to uphold. And it has its advantages. I get to do cool stuff like this. Lieutenant Grronkil, please stand."

Matias stood up. He wondered what he had done.

"It is with great pleasure that I hereby promote you both to Lieutenant Commander." Phoenix held out the box. "We thank you for your tireless service and hope you know that it is appreciated."

Matias gasped. It was an unexpected pleasure. He bowed. "Thank you, my alpha, I will endeavor to live up to your confidence." He took the box and opened it. He fastened the pips to his collar.

Phoenix reached and picked up the next box. "So next on my list is, Lieutenant Sthilg, please stand."

The big gorn did so carefully standing up and moving his chair back.

"It is with great pleasure that I hereby promote you to Lieutenant Commander." Phoenix held out the box. "We thank you for your tireless service and hope you know that it is appreciated even if people avoid your sickbay." she added with a smile.

" Thank you, captain. Will have to make sssure i wear the correct pipsss tomorrow. " The gorn said as he took the black pip.

Phoenix picked up the next box. "Lieutenant Liducca please stand." she motioned to the Science Chief.

Looking in the Captain's direction, Dyhei rose slowly not quite sure what to expect at this point despite the last two promotions. "Yes ma'am."

"With great pleasure, I hereby grant you the rank of Lieutenant Commander." Phoenix smiled at the Science Officer.

Completely unsure of how to react, she stood there for a moment or two, resisted the urge to ask if this was a wind up, instead repeated what she assumed she was supposed to say. "Well thank you Commander, it's an honour I will endeavor to live up too." Before sitting down quickly, the little box clutched in hand. The

n with a smile, Phoenix let her gaze drift over the group as she picked up the next box. "Hmm next on my list is, Lieutenant Commander Holmes. Please stand Commander."

Standing up slowly Lia looked her Captain in the eye, "See now I knew something like this was gonna happen". She smiled at both Gary and the Captain.

With a half grin, the Erisian held out the box in her hand. "It is with great pleasure, that you are hereby promoted to full Commander."

Lia started to choke, "Say what?" She couldn't believe here ears, "Full Commander? Thank you Captain, I was half expecting a transfer to the Laundry department after the trouble I've caused". Lia sniffed as she held back tears, "I'll never doubt that your the Captain again, honest". She said, recounting her mistake on her very first day on board.

Gary leaned forward and gently squeezed her shoulder. A smile in his eyes as well as in his voice. "Congratulations Lia. It is richly deserved."

Turning round Lia now openly showed her affection for Gary by kissing him, "Thanks, I think you knew. Probably had something to do with it".

Gary returned the kiss. a radiant smile on his face,"I'll never tell."

Jaeih began the round of applause for the currently promoted.

Dyhei added her applause to the mix, genuinely pleased for all that had extra pips, the ones she knew well enough definitely deserved the thank you and the leg up that was provided.

Phoenix waited until the applause had stopped. "Now onto my next victi... i mean person." she smirked. "Lieutenant Commander Taylor. Please stand."

Gary stood slowly,squared his shoulders and faced Phoenix waiting for whatever came next.

"Not two months ago, this ship returned, without a captain, without a proper executive officer, lets be by the gods honest. You came on board to, lets be frank, give experience to the training wheels that I still to this day have. And I appreciate it. More than words. So with that in mind, it is my extreme pleasure to promote you to Full Commander." She held out the box with a smile. "You should have been full commander from the start. And you would have been, had the CO being different. But now you are the rank you should have been. Congratulations Commander Taylor."

Gary smiled warmly at Phoenix as she spoke of his arrival aboard the Elysium. "Thank you Captain. Thank you very much." He accepted the box. "Don't want a different CO." He replied honestly. "The honor is mine to serve you and this fine group of officers and crew. From where I stand you don't need those training wheels. You've graduated to riding without assistance. Thank you again for this honor. I hope I never give you reason to regret it."

Smiling Lia looked at Gary, "You deserve that, oh just one question though. As I got mine first, do I out rank you?" She burst out laughing after she said it but quickly checked herself, her admiration for Gary clear for all to see.

"I believe that I will never regret having you as my XO Commander." Phoenix replied. Then she reached for the last box. "I do hope everyone will allow me one last indulgence. This one has been, to my mind, a long time coming. One, I wanted Sharr to present, but as we know that was not possible. Lieutenant Commander Qwyyn, please stand."

Qwyyn rose to her feet, smoothing her uniform in front of her as she did so. She felt terribly exposed standing there in such a large social setting. One-on-one she felt more than comfortable with each of them (Matias perhaps being a bit of an exception at the moment) but it was a different feeling altogether when she faced them all at once. Strangely, she was reminded of the notion of facing a firing squad.

Phoenix knew it was strange to do this out of order but, her long time friendship with Liselle was the reason she was doing it this way. She held the box between herself and the Trill. "I spoke to Sharr, months ago. While we were stuck on that horrible planet, about crew I felt needed the promotion. Heaven knows, Magnolia had no idea about anyone or what they did, so he listened to me. But things happened which put this on hold. Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn, it is my great pleasure, believe me, I had to keep this from my blabber mouth sister so I could do this as a surprise, to promote you, to Full Commander Rank." Phoenix smiled at the Trill. "I believe the extra pip will look good on you Liselle."

Qwyyn eyes instantly reddened. The shock of Phoenix's words came so quickly that she had no opportunity to put up any kind of a fight against the emotions that overwhelmed her. She cupped her hands over her mouth and nose, her fingers trembling. Surely, she should have expected something like this after witnessing all of the other promotions, but it was still too much to hear those words spoken aloud.

More-so than the notion of getting the promotion to Commander was the sentiment behind it. Phoenix had always been a close friend, but she was also incredibly professional. She was excellent at finding and keeping that balance. It meant the world to her that Phoenix thought her deserving of such recognition, that Sharr had been a part of that conversation and that he had agreed. It would have been one of his last acts on her behalf as the old CO of the Elysium.

Even if she could have kept her composure through all of that, it meant more to her than she could express to hear Phoenix refer to her as a sister. If she had failed to hold back the tears, she sure as hell wasn't going to be able to stop what happened next. She grabbed Phoenix into a hug, pulling her tight against her.

Phoenix laughed and hugged her friend back tightly. "Congratulation" she said softly in the Trill's ear. "You earned it." Gently she pulled back and grinned at her.

Now it was Gary's turn to lead the applause as Liselle was promoted. As the applause died down he stood. "Officers of the Elysium, I would like you to join me in a toast to Phoenix Lalor our commanding officer and my friend. She may be a Commander in rank but make no doubt my friends she is a Captain through and through. She worried about being big enough to sit in the center seat. A worry totally unfounded. She is more than big enough for the seat with nerves of steel, and the heart of a lion. Here's to you Captain!"

Phoenix's smile was slightly abashed and she gave the team a nod. "Thank you commander"

Dyhei raised her glass, it felt right for this commanding officer. Which made for refreshing change. Although the whole event, of promotions and toasting felt a bit surreal, and a little to formal for her to be fully comfortable.

Michael raised his glass ."To the Commanders " he said.

"To all," said Matias. "All of you deserved it." He applauded with the rest.

Lia stood and raised her glass of fruit juice, "Love and light to both Captain and fellow crewmates, and to you Gary success and love". Then she sat back down, and let the rest join in.

Gary smiled at Lia as she offered her own toast. His mind drifting for a moment and wishing Caitlin could have seen this. She would have been so proud! But somehow he knew she saw it and was smiling happily down at him. He raised his glass, "To the Elysium." He offered simply.

Qwyyn's ears perked at the sentiment. She dried her eyes with careful dabs of her finger in the corners. She found her feet again and reached down for her glass. Her eyes took in each one of them in turn. She was quiet for so long that some probably expected her to stay there forever. She raised up her glass. "To our family."

Tate was content, if a bit wistful. Her belly was full with delicious food and drink and it would be clear to anyone observing this gathering the crew had warm feelings toward one another even as they were still getting to know each other in some cases. Still, she recognized a small group of them had been through things Sullivan didn't know about, making the Elysium as much a strange environment to her as it was a familiar one. She couldn't help but wonder if she would ever truly know the extent of what those familiar to her had been through.

That was amusing for another time, however.

As the toasts went around the room Phoenix had to smile with pleasure at the level of joy in the room. She hoped it lasted.

Before she could speak her own toast the deck pitched beneath them, the table tilted, chairs and people toppled over as the room shook and the lights went out. "What the?" she got out as she hit the deck with a muffled curse. The emergency lighting came on. Phoenix scrambled to her feet but the deck kept rocking. "Party time is over everyone! Get to your posts!"

"What the hell!" Gary shouted as he was pitched onto the floor.

Matias left first. This was his job, and he would find out why the power went out and how to restore it.

Scrabbling to keep her feet, Lia grabbed Gary's arm. "Ok lover boy, I think its time we vacated this get together and got to the bridge". Not even thinking about changing she headed out the door, "If the turbo lift is out, its gonna be a long climb down in this dress. Any ideas Commander?" She asked Gary.

Like everyone else, Tate was stunned when she was suddenly thrown to the floor, her second glass of lemonade now part of the carpet. She didn't know what the hell was going on, but it quickly became apparent the lifts were out and they would all need to climb to get to their respective destinations. In Tate's case, that was either the bridge or sickbay. Until she knew more, she figured her safest bet would be to head to the bridge. "I'll join you on the bridge, sir, ma'am," Tate offered it to Gary and Phoenix.

"Couldn't agree more Lia." Gary answered as they headed for the door. Gary hesitated only an instant before he replied. "Yes, we make your dress into a skirt. It will be less cumbersome and free your legs if we do have to climb."

Phoenix passed them and slapped a ... dagger of ornate design into Gary's hand. "Use this. I want it back though." And then she went to the nearest hatch to open it.

Gary opened his mouth to reply but Phoenix was already moving to the nearest hatch. He looked at Lia. "You ready for me to do this?"

Nodding her head, Lia agreed. "Yeah but not to short ok, I don't want to be flashing my under