On> The Star Chamber

After Rafe sent his message to McKenna, he turned his attention to the unexplored regions of space bordering the Python Sector. He found it thrilling to be so close to the unknown. He found himself wanting to be out there to explore. He opened up the sensors to start looking and listening to various areas of space.

He set the computer to start monitoring and filtering out the static of subspace to look for stray signals while activating the Astrometrics systems to look at the surrounding areas.

Rafe sat back and sipped on a cup of Earl Gray Tea and he watched the data come through.

Nancy Davers pointed the VLA to the area of space she was going to study that day. She had gotten a grant to continue the SETI project, and they had recently discovered a double system in the Western sky that promised to harbor life. The Very Large Array was lined up. She transmitted a binary code, prefaced by the prime numbers. The message simply said, "Are you out there?"

A string of numbers caught Rafe's eye. He focused in on the string and an enhanced the signal. He recognized them as the prime numbers... followed by a simple text message. Rafe smiled. He bounced back the string of numbers in reverse order.

Nancy's console lit up! She nearly spilled her coffee , setting it down and taking her feet off the desk! "Oh my Goddess, Oh my Goddess! Someone ANSWERED! JEANNIE! JEANNIE!" But Jeannie was out of town today.

Nancy, sat up and retyped the answer, with a twist in the middle, a simple addition problem.

Rafe waited to see if the numbers and message were legitimate, or just a prank from a freighter.

"Answer, me, Please answer me!" She whispered to herself. "Okay, Nan. Try this." She typed in another message, in her own language of American, "Who won the World Series in 2065?"

Rafe looked at it... and scratched his head.

"World Series... World Series... what is a World Series.?" He asked himself... the he decided to ask the sender. "What is a World Series?"

Rafe tapped his combadge. "Commodore Veritas, please report to CIC."

Meanwhile, Rafe began to triangulate the origin of the transmissions.

Nan was astounded! Here was an alien answering her in her own language! Yet he didn't know what the World Series was!

"On my way, Captain," Elsie nodded to Rh'vuarek to take the conn while she headed for the old Astrometrics lab. The door swooshed open to a dark starry sky, with a light flashing in the West. "What do you have?" She asked.

Rafe pointed at the text display of the conversation he was having. "I picked up a rudimentary subspace transmission. They are broadcasting much in the same way that Terran SETI scientists broadcast an monitored for evidence of ETs in the late 20th and early 21st centuries."

"I have located the source of the broadcast and am looking for additional signals." He added

"Prewarp?" Elsie asked.

"I cannot be certain... but if the have basic subspace, then basic warp drives area distinct possibility.

He focused in on the location of the star system and opened up the sensors to look for additional transmissions.

On the screen, a television image of a woman in the garb of a military officer was standing on a balcony, saluting parading soldiers. All around her on the black and white images were banners bearing swastikas.

"Look familiar to you?" Rafe asked.

Elsie's grimaced. "Yes, she said solemnly. There was a similar situation about a 100 years ago with James Kirk."

"The Nazis, but this is different. Look at the person standing up. She wears the same attire as Earth's Adolph Hitler..." He said. As he looked for other transmissions, he came across another... a better and stronger signal depicting a black woman. This time there was audio to join the video. "Free at last, free at last, thank Goddess all mighty, I am free at last!" She announced proudly before an audience of apparent supporters.

"Oh, Goddess! Parallel development. Only they are three hundred years behind us. Though, if they are already trying to contact extra terrestrials, they may be farther along than Terra was at the time."

"Indeed." Rafe said. "We have one of them hanging on our every word, though."

"You do? Where?"

Rafe pointed back at the text screen with his conversation. "I'm afraid I am not up on Terran sports, however."

"World Series...World Series..."Elsie Shrugged, "I don't know what that is, either."

"Perhaps we should ask the sender a question." Rafe said.

"Do we really want to answer and let them know we are here?"

"I already have." Rafe said.

"You ANSWERED?" Elsie was shocked. She did not need to say what was on her mind.

"The number of possibilities in this scenario are great." Rafe replied. "From her end, this can be viewed as a prank. Something not to believe. Terrans were very skeptical of the existence of aliens until the Vulcans arrived on Earth. Even then many though it was some king od joke. I'm willing to bet my combadge they will see this the same way. No proof, no belief." Rafe said.

Elsie peered at the data. " This is not quite parallel to Terra, however. The Fascist movement was not a major factor during the time of This person." She pointed to the dark-skinned preacher. "And so far, we have seen only two female leaders. There may be...severe...complications if a fascist government is in power."

Rafe continued to close in on the communications. Images arrived of the Twin Towers in New York collapsing, and minutes later he brought up some images of a woman with an American Flag behind her making a speech, denouncing tragedy and terrorism.

Elsie stepped up closer to the hologram. "I can't quite make out the emblem behind her. Can you isolate that image? Maybe we can find out the name of the government."

Rafe isolated the image. It was an American Flag.

He read the presidential seal. "United Canadian and American States."

Elsie mused. "So far, we see three concurrent events that spanned over fifty years on Terra. Clearly they diverged at some point that changed the military balance of powers."

"That much is apparent." Rafe said.

"I wonder if our friend is still listening?" He wondered.

"Shall we find out?"

Rafe turned to the keyboard. "What shall we ask the sender?"

"Ask her if she is alone and if she would like to meet us."

Rafe began to type: "Sender: Are you alone at this time and would you like to meet those whom you are speaking to?"

Nancy sat back hard in her chair, breathless. Was she ready to meet an extra-terrestrial? She remembered to breathe, leaned forward and typed, "Yes. How will you get here?"

Elsie grinned, "Shall we bring her here?"

"That may not be immediately advisable." Rafe said. "We do not want to completely scare her. A one person, covert away team would be in order to determine the safety of the lading zone and the validity of the person whom we are speaking with." Rafe said. He turned back to the keyboard.

"We have the capability to come to your world." Rafe looked up at the displays and made some quick calculations. "We can arrive in 7 of your days. We have already triangulated the position of your star system... and your own location."

Nancy answered, "I will be here. Uh, may I ask...what do you look like?"

Elsie said, "Tell her we look like her people."

Rafe typed in the response and sent it.

The Planet rotated out of communications range, and the signal faded away.

Rafe cursed under his breath. He had more he wanted to say, more questions to ask.

Elsie smirked. "A week is near enough. We still have to assess the military strength and the political climate of the planet."

"I will continue to monitor transmissions from the planet... and from out friend."

"If they all look 20th Century Terran, I should not have a problem wearing my Starfleet Uniform." Elsie said.

"With all due respect, Elsie, who said I was going to let you go on the first mission?" Rafe said.

"With all due respect, Captain, If their leaders are primarily women, it may be best that I go, as the CO of this ship representing the UFP. Besides, a short Betazoid woman poses no threat. I am the logical choice for First Contact."

"It also presents potential risk to the CO of this ship." Rafe replied. "We have heard only a voice in the night. There is no proof that this is even legitimate and we could be walking into a trap of some kind. I will allow the Commander of this vessel to be placed in harms way when other individuals on this ship are qualified to take part in this mission with minimal risk to the operations of this starship."

"You have seven days to assess the extent of the risk. If the risk is minimal, I will go." Elsie firmly stated. "Besides, you will have a lock on me at all times, and an open link. I will have a subdermal installed so you can hear everything."

"Must I cite regulations, Elsie?" Rafe asked.

"No you do not. However, anyone we send down there has to not only be non-threatening in appearance, but also must have diplomatic skills.

"They must be able to represent the UFP in the best light possible."

"Counselor Domina's father was a diplomat. She also has excellent diplomatic training as a Counselor." Rafe said.

"Are there any blue-skinned people down there?" Elsie countered. Remember the problems Terrans had with people of different pigmentation."

"Indeed. We can work around that." Rafe replied.

Rafe ran his fingers through his hair.

Elsie crossed her arms over her chest as she thought about it. After a long moment, she decided. "I can think of no other objections to Counselor Domina making first contact."

"I have an idea."

Elsie turned her eyes on Rafe. "Let's hear it."

"The Mudhen II has a hyperdrive. I can go to the planet in a matter of hours and begin a covert casing of the planet and our contact. By the time you catch up with the Cook, I will be able to tell you if the planet is ready for first contact or not."

"Excellent plan, Rafe. Make it so." Elsie nodded.

Rafe nodded. "Let's head to our quarters. I'll need to change my clothes... and shave.

Rafe stood and secured the computer screens in The Star Chamber and led Elsie out.

>>Minutes later, in their Quarters<<

Rafe opened his closet and started pulling out various items. First and foremost was a black, three-piece suit.

He started taking off his kimono and the accompanying garments in favor of the black suit.

Elsie eyed the suit. "How do you know that is suitable wear? Maybe the men wear red stripes." Elsie quipped.

I have a replicator in the Mudhen in case I need something different." Rafe replied. I won't know for certain until I arrive."

He took out a case and opened it, revealing a pair of black Rayban sunglasses. He took off his steel colored sunglasses and put them in the case. He placed the black ones on. "How do I look?"

Elsie chuckled, "Like you are trying out for an old holovid, 'Men In Black'!"

Rafe frowned. "Do you think it will not pass?"

"As you said, you will not know until you arrive."

Rafe opened a briefcase, where he placed his phaser, tricorder and lightsaber... as well as a few other gadgets Elsie did not recognize. "I will leave immediately."

Elsie gave him a kiss and whispered' "Be careful out there."

"I will." He replied as he turned to leave for the Mudhen.

OFF>

JP
Commodore Elsie Veritas
CO USS James Cook
&

Capt. Rafe Oosha
CIO - USS James Cook
_______________________

Commodore Elsie Veritas

CO U.S.S. James Cook
Python Fleet Flagship

On>
Bridge>

Tarmis had come to shift early hoping to catch Elsie before she got to busy with her duties. He nervously took a seat in his chair, while awaiting her arrival.

Elsie strode onto the bridge and down the ramp to the lower bridge. "Report!" She ordered.

Tarmis looked at Elsie with wide eyes. "Ma'am all depts. 100% operational, on course to Terra Mater".

Elsie sat comfortably in the center seat and gazed at the new Tarmis. "Number One, how do you feel?" She asked.

Tarmis turned to Elsie, struggling to word his emotions, finally opting for directness. " Ma'am physically I am fine, but there is many question which seem to be weighing on my mind of late." Tarmis tightly held two padds in his left hand.

"In my Ready Room?" Elsie asked, thinking he might want to talk in private.

Tarmis nodded, " Yes Ma'am that may be best. Tarmis took a deep breath as he stood following Elsie to the ready room.

In the Ready Room>

Elsie stepped to the replicator in the ready room, got herself a Raktajino then shot a questioning look at Tarmis.

Tarmis shook his head, " Thank you but no Ma'am." He wanted to proceed hoping for the best.

Elsie brought the hot drink to the table and sat. "What is on your mind, Tarmis?" She asked.

Tarmis sat down in the chair across the desk from Elsie. He adjusted his uniform slightly, but not appearing at ease. " Ma'am I have been off duty for a short time. During that time I have realized two things Ma'am. One I love my job, I love being you Xo and now part of the Fleet flagship. Two I love my son, Hogah means the world too me Ma'am and I mean that literally. My first issue lies along these line Ma'am. Should one allow their beliefs and or loves to hinder their jobs or duties here on the Cook?" Tarmis turned slightly in his chair, adjusting the padds he held.

Elsie cupped the mug of hot coffee in her hands for a moment thinking how she should answer this. "Tarmis, Your religious beliefs and your love for Hogah exist along side of your duty. Starfleet is a job. You do your job in order to protect your loved ones and your way of life. I do not see a conflict."

Tarmis looked deeply into Elsie's eyes, hoping the answer he seeked would spring forth. " Ma'am, but what if I felt they began to conflict one another, what do you believe would be the proper avenue for me then?"

"What you are doing right now, talking to me. I am not only your commanding officer. I am your friend. What ever is bothering you, Feel free to share it with me. Nothing is so great we cannot work out some kind of solution."

Tarmis gave a slight smile at her answer. " I am glad to hear you say that Ma'am. During my time off duty Ma'am I had believed little would change in respect to this crew and her captain, since my return I have questioned that statement. I have strong beliefs, which have been strengthened by recent events. One of those Beliefs Ma'am was you. I always believed you would struggle for the safety and well being of your crew, allowing nothing or no one to change that. If this is true and I should still believe this Ma'am explain to me please the incident which happened in ten forward. Because to be honest I do not understand it." Tarmis breathed deeply awaiting her backlash for his words.

Elsie sat back in the chair. "You are questioning why I did not prevent the duel and subsequent death of Ambassador Tamar in Ten-Forward."

Tarmis nodded with a sad expression. " Yes Ma'am I am."

"At the time, in the heat of emotions, I relied on Captain Oosha's wisdom in the situation. It was within Counselor Domina's rights to challenge the Ambassador, but not in the manner she did. However, the charge of rape was made against the Ambassador, and his aide took up the challenge in Domina's behalf. She challenged him for his position. Complicating this matter, pretty much taking it out of my hands and putting it firmly into Migichinan hands, was the presence of their Goddess Migichina. Apparently she bade the Captain to carry out Migichinan Law, forfeiture of the Ambassador's life for the crime of rape." Elsie could see the argument rising in Tarmis' eyes. "I made the decision to let them work it out, not only because I myself could physically do nothing to intervene, but also to prevent injury to the guards. The warning not to interfere was there."

Tarmis anger did not swell or raise it's ugly head. Instead he felt remorse for the incident in ten forward. " Ma'am then using this argument one could also say that any Klingon who were to come aboard, which claimed right of blood fued could battle any individual as well as killing any being or officer and claim Kah'less himself guided their hands could they not?"

Elsie sighed, "I followed Rafe's advice in this. If I had allowed the guards to interfere, knowing how powerful a light sabre can be, and dealing with unknown abilities in the Migichinan, there might have been more deaths than the Ambassador's. I did go to Admiral Holloway after I arrested both Domina and Rafe. He made the decision to reprimand them for the way they pursued personal issues on a Starfleet ship. However, he sided with the Migichinan in the matter."

Tarmis leaned forward his mouth agape. Shock splashed across his face as he tried to comprehend what Elsie had said. Tarmis took a long breath before speaking, " A reprimand Ma'am?" Tarmis took another long breath before trying for his words again. " If I am understanding you right Ma'am you allowed Capt.Oosha to direct the situation in the belief that more injuries or deaths could occur if you had not. In by doing so you allowed the death of one ambassador and the blatant disregard for this vessel by such acts occurring here. After the battle placing both under arrest and with out question followed Holloway's decision for only a reprimand. Is that correct Ma'am or am I way off base?"

Elsie knew what was coming, and looked Tarmis right in the eyes, her own frustration rising. "I was not happy with the situation! I went to Holloway because we were dealing with assault and murder of an Ambassador. That one of the accused is my husband, made it impossible for me to sit the hearing. Of COURSE I went to Holloway! What else was I supposed to do? He is my superior officer, and according to the book, a crime was committed on Federation Property. It was beyond my jurisdiction!"

Tarmis looked down with saddened eyes, for a long moment he stared at the floor before returning his gaze to Elsie. " Ma'am when I first came aboard I saw in you a woman, a captain, a being willing to take on any force or any other person in the name of Justice. I watched you many times show you were not afraid and would never back down. It was that as well as your instruction which made me believe Truth and Justice had a home aboard this vessel. I have seen you change alot Ma'am and to be honest I am afraid it may not be for the good. My position as Xo means I should also question and be a form of help in dire situations. I believe this to be one of those situations, but I also believe I am too late." Tarmis' eye became extremely sad, " Ma'am you have always showed me to follow what I

Believe, now is one such time I must do just that." Tarmis pressed his thumb against the padd. He then layed the padd on Elsie's desk. Gripping the other still tightly. " Ma'am as you can see this is a request for transfer out of Python Fleet at the next available opportunity."

Elsie's eyes saddened, "You believe I am unfit for command, and so rather than press charges against me, you would transfer?"

Tarmis shook his head, " No Ma'am I do not believe you unfit, quite the contrary I know you are fit. What I believe is for some reason you have lost your desire or fever or something for truth and justice I seen when I first came aboard. The reason for the request Ma'am is that I can not stand idly by and watch this occur to someone I have great regard and concern for."

Elsie took the PADD containing the transfer and laid it on the desk. "This will remain here for 24 hours. If in that time you still want a transfer, I will grant it." Elsie looked at Tarmis, "Someone once told me never to second-guess my decisions. I will not second guess my decision in Ten-Forward. Neither will I questions the decision of Admiral Holloway. Personally I agree with him. It was a matter of Migichinan Law. The problem arises where and by whom it was carried out." Elsie eyed the other PADD in Tarmis' hand. "I get the feeling there is more."

Tarmis slowly looked at the padd. He looked from it to Elsie, then taking a long deep breath he thumb printed the second padd. After he layed it on the desk Tarmis turned exiting Elsie's Ready room without a word. He knew no words could say the feeling of betrayal he felt from Star Fleet, Python Fleet or even Elsie herself. His mental barriers firmly closed he solemnly left never looking back.

Elsie picked up the second padd which contained Tarmis resignation from Star Fleet sighting personal matters as the reason for his resignation.

OFF>

Joint Post

Commodore Elsie Veritas
CO USS James Cook
&
 

===================
Capt. Tarmis Jeram

Executive Officer
USS James Cook NCC-2098-A

On> The New Mexico Desert

0400 Hours

Rafe landed the Mudhen II in a mesa hollowed out by time and erosion. He secured the systems and lowered a ground vehicle for him to use. The Tyrusian technology of the vehicle allowed it to disguise its self as an indegineous vehicle, as to not rouse any suspicion of it being alien. Rafe had observed the primary form of ground transportation to be hover cars and trucks.

He drove the car out of a cave opening in the mesa and activated the Mudhen’s cloak behind him. He then proceeded in the direction of the small town of Socorro, New Mexico.

0515 Hours

Rafe pulled into the small town of Socorro. It was a town that had not grown much in size over the last hundred years. Technology, even with the NRAO’s VLA only 50 miles away, was still slow to come to Socorro. Rafe saw a mix of hover cars and wheeled vehicles. He pulled up to a small diner and got out.

Of the few people he saw, all were dressed in country attire. Jeans, button down shirts, boots and cowboy hats. True to what he had seen from the transmissions, it was a female dominated society.

Rafe walked in and sat down at a table. A waiter approached him.

“Morning, buddy. What can I get for ya?” He asked.

Rafe realized he had no money… but he did have some gold on him.

“I’m afraid I have nothing but this to offer in exchange for services.” He said, producing the hex shaped gold coins.

The waiter picked up the gold coins and looked at ‘em. “Lucy over there runs the city’s only bank. She can take care of you.” He said. The waiter walked over to the woman sitting on the other side of the diner and started to talk to her. Rafe turned his attention to the news being displayed on a television. It depicted a spacecraft similar to an old Terran space shuttle, but this one had twin pods mounted on the sides of the ship.

“Howdy stranger.” Lucy said as she sat down at the table. Rafe looked over to her. “Good morning.” He replied.

“You look like you’re from out of town.” She said, eyeing his suit.

“I’m from… Seattle.” Rafe replied. “My gold. Can you exchange it for currency? It seems that I lost my wallet and that is all I have.” He said.

“Sure thing, honey. I don’t open my bank for another couple of hours, but tell you what, I’ll buy ya breakfast and take your half out of what I give you back for the gold. Sound fair?” Lucy asked.

“Fair enough.” Rafe replied.

“So, what brings you down this way?” Lucy asked.

Rafe considered his answer. “I am doing some research on the SETI project.” Rafe replied. “I am on my way to the VLA.”

“That’s 50 miles west of here.” Lucy said. “A number of people here in town work there.”

Rafe nodded. He saw the VLA when he had flown in. He looked back up at the TV.

“Pretty amazing, isn’t it?” Lucy commented. “They say that ship can fly faster than the speed of light.”

“Indeed.” Rafe replied. “It should be interesting to see what happens.” A waiter brought them both a cup of coffee and took their orders. While Lucy ordered her usual, Rafe ordered a grapefruit.

“So Mister…” Lucy said expecting a name.

“Rafael… Rafael Veritas.” Rafe said on the fly.”

“That’s an odd name. Are you Italian?” Lucy asked.

“Yes.” Rafe replied.

“Cool. That probably explains the gold then.” Lucy said. “So, researching SETI… do you think these guys will find life out there? Or do you think we are the only ones in this crazy universe?” She asked.

“It would be arrogant to assume that we are the only ones existing in such a big universe.” Rafe replied. “My guess is that it will only be a matter of time. I think that the shuttle they will launch will be a turning point in space exploration.”

“You sound like some kind of astronaut.” Lucy said. Rafe only smiled in response. The news switched from the shuttle to an anchorwoman.

“The UN today is expected to announce for the first time in Terra Materian history a declaration of world peace. For the past 50 years, the UN has struggled to promote peace, stating continually that the survival of our world depends on it. As you might recall, a deal brokered 25 years ago by the UN saw the end of nuclear weapons, turning nuclear power over to private industry and the International Space Program, which is now a division of the UN. We go live to Washington DC where we are waiting a statement from President Dana Sterling.”

The screen changed to the seal of the US President and then to the podium. A blonde woman came out wearing a US Flag lapel pin on her business suit. Another woman off screen announced “The President of the United States!”

“Thank you. My fellow Americans, citizens of the world. Today marks a historic occasion as in only a few hours, the valiant crew of the UNSS Star Freedom will embark on a voyage and challenge the stars for a speed title that they only hold. The Star Freedom will be the first Terra Materian space vehicle to travel faster that the speed of light. It will become a messenger, announcing that we are no longer a people tied to a planet. Star Freedom will announce that we are citizens of the galaxy, children of the stars. It will announce that we will no longer sit silently by watching the galaxy pass before us. We will go into the galaxy to explore! We will go into the galaxy to discover other worlds which we know exist, and if alien life is out there, we will find that too.”

“I await patiently the declaration of world peace that will soon be made by the UN. A declaration that we as a people have matured beyond our petty differences. That we can work together to strike hunger, poverty, war and decay from our world. That we will nurture and care for each other. I urge all of you to support this declaration. Thank you.

The questions started to pour in after that. Rafe sat and watched.

“That’s pretty powerful stuff.” Lucy commented. “She’s been a good president.”

“I agree.” Rafe said absently. “I should be on my way.”

“You’re not coming by the bank?” Lucy asked.

“I really don’t have the time to.” Rafe said.

“Well… look, the going rate for gold is $425. I have $200 on me. If you come back through town I’ll give you the rest.” She said.

“That will do.” Rafe said, taking the money from her. “Thank you for breakfast.” He said.

“Anytime, handsome. If you come back this way, maybe we can get together for dinner.” She offered.

“I’ll consider it.” Rafe replied. He left her company and walked back out to the car.

0800 Hours

Rafe pulled up the parking lot of the NRAO’s VLA facility. He noted the visiting hours as he walked in and paid a fare for a tour of the facility.

Off>

Capt. Rafe Oosha

Chief Intelligence Officer
USS James Cook NCC-2098-A
"Wisdom begins in wonder."

On> Bridge.

Domina sat back in her chair next to the vacant CO and XO chairs. She could feel a wave of emotion emanating from the Commodore's Ready Room. She looked over as Tarmis Jeram walked out. He glanced at her, but then looked away. Domina felt no emotion from him... nothing. It scared her.

She considered getting up to go see the Commodore, or even to follow Tarmis to see what was going on, but something compelled her to stay put. Whatever happened was between the Commodore and Tarmis, not any of her business until called.

Elsie set the PADD's down and rubbed her eyes in frustration. With the resignation of Jeram, she had some candidates to look over. Elsie could not wait; she had to start screening the command officers for a replacement XO, right now. "Counselor, would you please come to the Ready Room?"

Domina stood up and straightened her dress and walked over to the Ready Room door. She took a breath and pressed the buzzer.

"Enter," Elsie answered.

Domina walked in and noted the look of concern on Elsie's face. "Commodore?"

"Please sit down, Counselor. We have a situation."

Domina took a seat and watched the Commodore's face.

"As Chief counselor, one of your duties is to aid in crew evaluations. I need you to help me choose a new Executive Officer until Starfleet can permanently assign one to the Cook. Tarmis tendered his resignation from Starfleet." Elsie frowned, clearly unhappy.

"Tarmy... Tarmis is resigning?" A sudden wave of shock and anguish swept over Domina.

"Yes. I was not expecting it at all. It seems he disagrees with my decisions enough to leave Starfleet."

Domina bowed her head. "Can I guess the reason why?" She asked.

"What are your thoughts, Counselor? I think there is more to it than a disagreement with command style."

"I can't speak immediately for the Captain's decision to leave. I'm assuming he did not agree with your handling of the situation I caused in Ten-Forward." She said.

"No. He was extremely unhappy with the incidents of violence that have occurred on this ship. Even though I did not condone them, I am ultimately responsible for everything that occurs on the Cook."

"Incidents of violence?" Domina said. "Well, first there was Edderly and McKenna. That was not within your control. The Admiral beat the crap out of Edderly because Edderly was too boneheaded to know when to quit... and Rafe... well... he was sticking up for me, but I caused that." She said

Domina put her had to her mouth. "I'm sorry, Commodore, I was out of line."

Elsie shook her head, dismissing the apology. "My immediate concern is finding a replacement XO. We are too far from Starbase to pick anyone up, and I need someone right now. This is where your expertise comes in. To help me pick the most qualified person for the job."

"Well, an interim XO would have to be selected. I could think of Rh'vaurek immediately, as he has the capability to command, but he is a Romulan officer and not a Federation one. I don't think Star Fleet Command would take kindly if you were to name him XO, even in the spirit of cooperation." She said.

Elsie thought about protocol and about the needs of the ship. "Rh'vaurek is imminently suited for the position he is in. It would be counter productive for me to pull him out of that position. He serves the ship and Starfleet best where he is."

"Right, right..." She agreed.

"There is Lt. Waverly on Navigation. He knows the stations very well."

"Yes, but does he know the crew? He is qualified as a bridge watch officer and knows the ship, but Star Fleet requires command school training and at least one tour as an active second officer prior to consideration for the position of Executive Officer." Domina said. "Waverly just submitted his application for command school and has scheduled an appointment with me for pre-entry psyche evaluations."

Elsie nodded, "Then a year or two down the line he will be ready, but not now. Who else is on the command list?"

Domina picked up a PADD and accessed the roster. "K'marh has the command school training, but not the time in service... There is the air boss, Lcdr. Joel Ogden. He's got command school and time logged as Second Officer on the USS Truxten.”

Elsie quietly added, "Then there is Captain Oosha."

Domina looked up. "Rafe?"

Domina saw a flash of Rafe in a business suit in a desert, standing next to a radio telescope.

"Rafe's not here." She said without thinking.

"No.. He is on assignment. However, he will be here soon."

Domina nodded. "Ok... Rafe... as XO. He is qualified... over qualified actually. He should have his own ship by now."

Elsie answered. "I can think of several reasons why he should not be my XO, but I also cannot discount his vast amount of knowledge and expertise. He has been my advisor and my confidant. He is superb with the crew. I could not ask for a better XO."

"But with his recent reprimand, would Star Fleet approve of the decision?" Domina asked.

Domina started to fidget with her thumbs.

"I don't know, Counselor. I need someone now, not later. I am inclined to put Rafe in there until Starfleet either approves it or assigns me another Executive Officer."

"It would be your prerogative to make the decision, Commodore." She said. "With the ship on a mission, you cannot sit and wait for the brass to make a decision."

"No, I cannot." Elsie gazed at Domina. "What are your thoughts, Counselor? You seem...distracted."

"I'm sorry... I was just thinking about Tarmis... Capt. Tarmis. He's gone through so much. I've been trying to get through to him since our first date, but he's... he's kinda avoided me." She replied.

"And after the way we connected, I'm not sure how to take all of this. I guess... I guess I'll have to move on, and be strong... be a survivor, you know?"

"He's...different..since his transformation. I think his life is following a different path now. He has to be free to seek that path." Elsie answered.

"I know. I just... well, I was tired of being alone."

"My mom resented the fact that I joined Star Fleet. She said I should have gone into politics like my father. She told me never to come home... so since then home has been where ever I had a bed for more then one night."

Elsie could feel her loneliness. "I know, Chiara. I know the feeling, like some nights so lonely you hurt. As you settle in here, eventually this ship, for a time, will be your home. And, at last count there were six-hundred and forty-three single male humanoids aboard the Ship." Elsie grinned.

"And one 'Blue-Lady'" Domina said with a slight smile. "Commodore... I blew it big time. I started that fight because I wanted vengeance. I didn't mean for Rafe to get involved, and I didn't mean for it to cause Tarmis to resign. It wasn't your fault, or Rafe's... it was mine. I screwed it up... just like everything else that went south in my life... it went wrong because I screwed up." She said.

"Counselor, sometimes we cannot help but do things the way we do, just like the decisions I made in Ten-Forward. There were bigger events unfolding in there, and we were only players. It was time to Tamar to pay the price for his crime. I do not think anything you or I could have done to change that. Justice was served in the end, and Admiral Holloway agrees with that."

Domina was quiet, not sure if she could accept that or not.

"Chiara, don't look back. Don't waste your life in what might have been. You make mistakes; you pick yourself up and learn from them. You keep going, one foot in front of the other."

"Easier said then done." She commented.

"If the journey was easy, it would not be worth traveling." Elsie said cryptically.

"I guess you're right."

Elsie rubbed her face tiredly, "This is going to be a long day."

Domina nodded.

"So, what next?" She asked.

"We continue on course to Terra Mater and decide along the way whether to establish formal First Contact."

Domina closed her eyes.

Elsie watched the Counselor closely.

She saw people gathered around a tall white pillar, a spaceship aimed to the heavens. The cheered as it lifted of, rocketing toward it's destiny. Domina watched as the ship climbed into space and jettisoned the booster rockets that carried it and powered up the warp engines that would carry it away from the delicate blue-green world from which it came. The ship jumped to warp speed and raced to the outer edges of the solar system... but then something happened... something terrible... when it slowed, one of the engines blew out... the ship began to tumble and drift into interstellar space... lost forever.

Domina opened her eyes... they were solid white. "On no... Commodore, we have to get there quickly! They're going to launch a warp shuttle for the first time and something is going to go wrong!"

"At Terra Mater?"

"Yes... The shuttle, it will launch and fly at warp... but it's going to loose and engine and won't be able to go home."

Chiara, I have a cot off the Ready Room. I'm going to take you there to rest until you have recovered. Kelso will see to your needs. I will watch for the shuttle." Elsie rose and took Chiara by the hand.

Chiara cautiously walked to the cot and laid down. "If we are not there in time, the crew of the shuttle will die."

"I will push this bucket as fast as it will go." Elsie reassured her.

"If we don't save them... the world peace... on... Terra Mater... war... terrible war.." Domina started drifting off to sleep as the tears began to flow.

Elsie strode out to the bridge and briskly ordered, "Maximum warp!" The tone of her voiced was laced with urgency, and the crew snapped to in response. a chorus of "Aye's" were heard round the bridge. She took the center seat and stared at the forward screen, ignoring the vertigo of watching the stars streak by in warp.

OFF>

JP

Commodore Elsie Veritas
CO USS James Cook
&
 

===================
Counselor Chiara Domina

USS James Cook NCC-2098-A
 

On> The VLA Visitor Center

Rafe walked into the air-conditioned Visitor's Center of the NRAO's VLA facility. He looked around at some of the photographs and looked through the brochures.

Nancy Devers straightened the name tag on her shoulder and shut down the lights in the lab. It was time for the facility to close. She would return tomorrow for her scheduled time on the telescope. The elevator took her to the main floor and opened to a visitor's center. She saw a few people still in the area, looking over brochures. "We are closing in five minutes, folks. It is time for you to leave. The facility will open at 8 AM tomorrow."

As she ushered people towards the door, she passed Rafe and gave him a second look. There was definitely something different about him. He was too tall, he seemed..odd somehow. The conversation she had had over the com flashed though her mind.

Rafe looked over at the woman, while he tucked away some brochures. "Miss... perhaps you can help me. My name is Rafael Veritas. I'm from Seattle and I'm here doing some research on SETI for... a private firm. Perhaps you could assist me in directing me to a person who can be of service."

Nancy smiled and answered, "Let me be of help. Look, the coffee shop across the street is open. Let's go there." She led the way out the door as the custodians locked the doors behind them.

"Lead the way." Rafe replied.

Nancy and Rafe stopped at the crosswalk while they waited for the "walk" light to activate. The vehicles and hovercars stopped, and they crossed to the cafe. She nodded to the owner as they went in and he pointed to a table in the corner.

Rafe waited for the lady to be seated before he himself sat down.

Once they were seated, the owner came over and took their orders. Nancy put her elbows on the table, folding her arms. "My name is Nancy Devers. I am the Senior SETI researcher here. What interest do you have in the program?"

"My firm... funds research and development projects. With the advent of the FTL technology that the UN is launching, my firm is very interested in stepping up the search for extra-terrestrial life. We are already aware that SETI is utilizing what is being called "Subspace" communications... is this true, Miss Devers?"

"Yes it is Mr. Veritas. Not only that, but if the launch is successful tomorrow, we may try to incorporate subspace communications in our space craft."

"A very good idea. I hear that subspace communications will be far superior to current means." Rafe replied, sipping his coffee. "Tell me, how long have you been a part of the program?"

"Ten years. I am very certain we will make contact, very soon." Nancy smiled wistfully.

"Indeed." Rafe said with interest. "Tell me... have you seen anything yet to support the idea that there may infact be anything out there?"

Nancy hesitated, and then answered quietly. "Yes."

Rafe cocked his head. "What did you find?" He asked.

"I....." Nancy hesitated, "Do you really believe in this stuff?"

"Yes." Rafe replied. "It would be arrogant for us to think we are alone in the galaxy."

Nancy looked this strange man in the eye and said, "I got an answer yesterday."

"Yesterday. Quite impressive. What did the message say?" He asked.

“First, the answer reversed my message, then I changed it and got an answer then I asked a question, and I got an answer in my own language!"

"Fascinating. There's no chance that this is simply some kind of hoax?" Rafe asked.

"I will find out. Whoever was on the other end of the transmission promised to meet me in 6 days." She shrugged. "Maybe I am a fool. If I am wrong, I'm walking away and finding something else to do with my life."

"6 Days. Why so long?" He asked.

"The signal was light years away. They must have FTL."

"That would explain it." Rafe said. "Given the distance they would probably need to travel."

"Tomorrow’s launch will tell everything. If that shuttle breaks the FTL barrier, then everything on Terra Mater changes. Our whole idea that we are bound to this planet goes out the window. That we can colonize Mars and the Moon and get there quickly, and explore Europa!" Nan realized she was getting too enthusiastic and abruptly stopped. "Sorry. I get excited sometimes and tend to ramble on."

"I fully understand." Rafe replied.

"You mentioned that your firm was interested in helping SETI. What did you have in mind?" Nancy asked.

She had Rafe in a corner with that question. "We... understand that SETI does not always get the funding it needs to continue to operate. We are interested in donating money to the project."

"More telescopes, money to hire communications developers, researchers to develop smaller and more efficient emitters....oh, there is so much we need!"

"We can get that for you... and more probably."

Nan sat back, astounded! "What company do you represent, Mr. Veritas?"

"They prefer to remain anonymous for security reasons, Miss Devers. I'm sorry." He said.

"Let me guess. Military. You don’t work for the Nazi's, do you?" Nancy frowned. Then a shaft of fear hit her belly. Oh Goddess! What if he were from the SS? She swallowed in a suddenly dry throat.

"No ma'am. I can assure you that I do not work for the US Military or the Nazis. My organization is dedicated to research and exploration. We have the funding and support to offer to right groups and individuals." Rafe said.

Nancy forced herself to calm, then reached in her purse, retrieving a card. "Here is my business card, Mr. Veritas. When your firm is ready to come aboard, you know where to find me." She handed him the small card.

Rafe took the card and looked at it. "Say... can you recommend a hotel around these parts?"

The Hilton is about a half mile north of here, this road." She gestured to the intersection just outside the window.

"Reasonable rates?" He asked.

"This time of year, yes. I imagine everyone in the world is at Cape Kennedy for the launch. You should not have any trouble finding a room."

"Good." Rafe said. "I hope to see you again real soon."

"It was a pleasure talking to you, Mr. Veritas."

Rafe nodded and walked out the door to his waiting car.

Nancy sat astounded at the conversation she just had! Finally, decent funding, and at the most opportune time!

Rafe brought the hovercar around and took one more look at Nancy Devers before driving off.

Instead of heading towards the Hilton, he turned and headed for the mesa where the Mudhen was parked.

Off>

JP

Commodore Elsie Veritas
CO USS James Cook
(As Nancy Devers)

&

Capt. Rafe Oosha

Chief Intelligence Officer
USS James Cook NCC-2098-A
"Wisdom begins in wonder."

On> Tarmis's Quarters.

Domina gathered her courage and pressed the chime on Tarmis's door.

Tarmis nodded to Hogah who quickly answered the door. Tarmis was tossing his uniforms in the recycler along with any thing remotely resembling Star Fleet. Hogah smiled wide eyed, " Hi Ms.Chiara. I have missed you." Hogah jumped, hugging Chiara tightly while Tarmis continued what he was doing.

"Hiya Hogie! Sorry I haven't been by but I've been really busy... is your dad around?" She asked.

Hogah nodded to Tarmis who was sorting things. Hogah whispered, " Dad is over there, but he is not very talkative right now Ms.Chiara."

"Why don't you head down to the ship's playroom while I talk to your dad." She said.

Hogah frowned slightly, but with a nod and one last hug ran off as he was told. Tarmis heard Chiara come in but continued packing.

Chiara walked into Tarmis's bedroom. "Tarmis Jeram, what in the name of the Great Green Arkleseizure are you doing!?!" She asked with authority.

Tarmis turned to look at Chiara, his eyes were red and bloodshot. He stared at her sadly for a long moment before turning around. He continued tossing uniforms and even awards in the recycler. " What do you mean Chiara? You know by now what I am doing." His voice cracked some what as he spoke.

"You are throwing away a long a distinguished career, that's what you are doing!" She said. "You didn't agree with the Commodore because of her actions? You didn't agree with Adm. Holloway because he decided not to throw the book at Capt. Rafe and I?"

Tarmis spun around, he held back his anger, struggling to keep balance and control. After taking a deep breath, " No Chiara it was not as simple as that. No I did not agree with the Commodore's actions in ten forward and No I did not agree with what the admiral did, but there is much more. I watched the commodore change from a self assured woman of power to one who allows such things as ten forward to happen as well as certain past incidents. One thing she showed me from the start was follow what you believe. I believe what I have seen shows me I have NO faith in Star Fleet any longer."

"Tarmis, sometimes things happen that are beyond our control. What happened in Ten-Forward was bound to happen, if not there then somewhere else. Vin Tamar was going to have to pay for what he did to me, if not by my hand or Rafe's, then by someone else's. The Commodore could have taken action, but what would she have done? Sent in the guards to get in the way of a Migichinan warrior who would have turned them all into coleslaw? Yeah, you should follow what you believe, and she believed in Rafe's ability to handle the situation, and she believed that he was right in allowing things to take its course. If anything, she was practicing the Prime Directive by not interfering."

"The Commodore is just as strong and self assured as she ever was, Tarmis Jeram! She knows what she is doing, otherwise McKenna would not have put her in Command of this ship, and Holloway wouldn't allow her to stay here!"

Tarmis stood there listening to Chiara. His chest heaved as he breathed deeply. Grabbing his medal for meritorious service he looked at it for a moment then angrily threw it into the recycler. " You sound just like her during our meeting. That is why I am leaving. I had no choice in what was said in the matter as I have none now. I had only to options for what to do about the Commodore, one declare her unfit and take command or request for transfer. I requested for transfer that way everyone involved wins. Then for reason of my own accord I signed the resignation padd and decided that was actually what would be best." Tarmis turned his back on Chiara continuing to pack.

"Every one wins? What the hell are you talking about? Nobody wins if you leave. Veritas is scrambling to find a replacement for you and its not very easy... in fact she only has one choice." Domina said. She gathered her thoughts. "Why would you consider declaring her unfit for command? For her lack of action?"

Tarmis slammed his hands onto the stacks of clothes and misc. belongings. Struggling to keep his emotions back, " Chiara, by my leaving the cook this will allow Commodore Veritas to find someone more suitable to her style of command and her beliefs. Maybe I am the one who is in the wrong here and it is my fault. Maybe I am the one who changed, but no matter whose fault I no longer believe I can serve as the cook's Xo." Tarmis emotions over came him and he spun around to face Chiara. " As to why I am leaving Star Fleet, I can't explain that. Tarmis stared blankly at Chiara.

"Tarmy... I'm your friend... and I hoped there was something more between us. You're turning your back on people who care for you. You're turning your back on a lot of things. You're running away. My daddy taught me one thing and that was to never run... to never hide. It gets you nowhere." She replied. "What kind of example are you setting for Hogie... by not standing up for what you believe in. This may be a protest, and its certainly driving the nail home, but is this the right way to do it?"

"You're not wrong, but you're not right either. I'm certain the same could be said for Elsie, Rafe and the others too."

"Diversity is what makes this ship strong... different viewpoints, different religions, different thoughts and actions. We may not always get it right, but we have to try."

"By leaving, you'll take with you some of that diversity..."

Tarmis' emotions churned and exploded. He felt emotions unknown course through his body. " Leave Hogah out of this. I will be giving him a better life by being able to be a good father to him and not always running off on missions unsure if I will ever return. I believed the Commodore should have stopped the fight, by allowing the fight to continue what does that say to others aboard the cook? By dismissing your Xo's request for transfer by saying you will give them 24 hours if they change their mind only showed me two things Chiara, one I am either a terrible XO and have no right to be serving or my time of service here did not mean shit to Elsie at all. I am leaving Chiara and that is that, now if you will excuse. I have much to do." Tarmis turned his back as he dropped his comm badge to the floor.

Tears started to stream down her face. "You've got a lot to learn, Tarmy. About yourself, about the people around you, and about life." She started to back towards the door. "Nothing's ever perfect, Tarmy. They teach that in the Academy, you know. They tell you can't always go by the book. You have to think for yourself. You have to be yourself. The Commodore knew she could trust you to be yourself. She trusted you! She believed in you, just like everyone on this ship believes in her and trusts her judgment as Commodore no matter what! I know, I'm the damn Counselor of this ship! I know what's on thier minds Tarmy... the only person I can't read is you! But that's the way you want it, isn't it. You just want to walk away from it all, no matter who you hurt, that's the way you want it, isn't it?" Domina walked to the door. "I was the one who screwed things up in Ten-Forward, Tarmy. Not Rafe, not Elsie. Don't blame them, don't blame Star Fleet... it wasn't thier fault. It was my fault for allowing Tamar to do what he did to me... it was my fault I decided to get revenge... and now I guess it's my fault you're leaving. Well, see ya around, I guess."

She stepped out of the quarters and ran down the corridor, sobbing all the way to her own quarters.

Tarmis bowed his head in submission, his own tears flowing at Chiara's words. He felt as if a knife had been plunged into his chest. ~ Maybe she is right maybe.~ Tarmis grabbed the stacks and began throwing them angrily about the room. He finally fell exhausted to the floor. ~ I have thrown them all away.~ Tarmis lied on the deck not wanting to get up.

Off>

JP

Capt. Tarmis Jeram

Executive Officer
USS James Cook NCC-2098-A

&

===================
Counselor Chiara Domina

USS James Cook NCC-2098-A
 

On>
Jeram Quarters>

Hogah walked down the corridor, whistling to himself. He heard some loud crying towards the junction ahead. As he stared he saw Chiara run by crying, he tried to catch her but she was too fast for him. Silently Hogah turned heading for his quarters.

Once there Hogah slowly stepped inside the door. He looked around seeing clothes and things thrown about. Hogah went to Tarmis bedroom, hearing soft sobs coming from inside the bedroom. Peering carefully around the corner Hogah saw his father still on the ground. Without a word Hogah retrieved Tarmis' crystal. He lied it next to his father then sat next him.

Tarmis slowly reached for the crystal, touching it with one finger. As he did his mind began to clear and order. The crystal pulsed deep colors as time went on changing hues many times before returning to it's normal color. Tarmis felt his thoughts order so he was able to think through what he was doing. His emotions still rampaged through him but he was able to slow and view each emotion as it came.

Tarmis looked into his son's eyes. Hogah showed no fear nor anger, only love. As Hogah stared into Tarmis' eyes he spoke as if in a whisper, " Father I Love You, and I Love the Cook." Tarmis stared at Hogah, allowing the boys words to sink into his being. Tarmis felt his heart begin to swell from his sons words. Tarmis started to show a small grin, " I love you too son."

Hogah jumped on top of Tarmis, hugging him tightly. Tarmis gently leaned Hogah back, " Son do you like it here?" Hogah nodded his head quickly. Tarmis smiled, " Do you want me to leave Star Fleet son?" Hogah shook his head as he struggled for the words, " Father I want you to be home with me and playing and watching old holotoons, but I know so we can do that you have to make the universe safe. And dad to know my daddy protects the universe is enough for me."

Tarmis and Hogah held each other tightly. Their love embraced them like no other they had felt before. Tarmis smiled as his son's arms wrapped about his neck. As he and Hogah held each other Tarmis decided his future. " Son we will stay then, what job I will have I do not know but we will stay son." Tarmis said. Hogah smiled widely, " Good dad, I don't want to leave this new girl I met."

Tarmis chuckled, " It's always a girl some how." Tarmis and Hogah played for sometime. Once they had finished Tarmis smiled, " You go tell your girl you are staying son. I have business to take care of." Hogah's smile almost wrapped about his entire face as he ran out the quarters. Tarmis turned and began getting ready.


Bridge>

Tarmis walked onto the bridge, ignoring questioningly glares as he went directly to Elsie. Looking down at her, he stared hiding his real emotions. " Commodore Veritas."

Elsie looked up and saw the conflicting emotions in Tarmis' eyes. She rose and followed him as he walked to the ready room.

Once inside Tarmis walked behind Elsie's desk, and took her seat. He gestured to the chair across the desk. " Please be seated Commodore."

Elsie sat without any preliminaries. She knew what he had to say was important.

Tarmis leaned on her desk, moving memento's out of his way so he could stare into her eyes. " Ma'am first of all I would like to say I do not nor will I agree with the incident in ten forward, or the outcome. However I would like to ask you one question Elsie. With no rank nor any other agendas. Do you want me as your second?"

Elsie looked him right back without flinching and said firmly, "Yes."

Tarmis stared at her searching her facial expression for it truth. " When I came aboard Ma'am you had given me the impression you wanted me to support you at times and be your conscience during others is this still how you want it?"

"Yes, even if it is not what I want to hear. Even if you are questioning my fitness for command. Even if I am flat out wrong and you are right. It is your duty to make me see all sides of an issue so that I can make an informed decision."

Tarmis lowered his gaze, " Then I did as I should, but I did not do it in a manner which I should have Ma'am. I believed you were allowing you betrothal to Capt.Oosha to interfere with your decision in ten-forward, Instead of presenting this to you in a manner in which would not be attacking nor questioning like you were being interrogated. For that Ma'am I am sorry."

Elsie nodded. "I understand anger, Captain Jeram. All too well. It means you care."

Tarmis looked up to Elsie, " Ma'am I care for this ship and it's crew with such high regards prior to my evolution I allowed my duty to overcome the family I so desperately loved."

"And yet, when the opportunity arose, you found it in your heart to love an orphan boy. And you still remain a fine officer. There is room for both"

"That Elsie is the one thing I did not truly understand. But am beginning to learn. Tarmis withdrew a padd from the robe he wore and handed it to Elsie." Ma'am here is a letter placing myself under reprimand for my actions at our last meeting as well as my request to be returned to duty."

Elsie scanned the document then frowned. "I cannot sign this, Captain. The charges are false. You cannot be reprimanded for doing your duty, even though you were angry at the time. However, I can return these two." She held up the Padds Tarmis had left earlier.

Tarmis frowned slightly. " Understood Ma'am however to ensure this does not happen again I will be placing myself in counseling with Counselor Domina to learn control of my anger as well as that of what has happened to me."

Elsie smiled, "That would be wise, in the light of your transformation. You have many emotions dealing with your core beings that need to be addressed."

With that said Tarmis smiled widely as he dropped his robe, showing his uniform underneath. Withdrawing his phaser Tarmis pointed it to the padds he threw on the floor and disintegrated them. "Now that complete Ma'am we proverbially threw the past into the fire." Tarmis smiled as he strode out of the ready room, as the weapons alert sounded.

Off>

Joint Post

Commodore Elsie Veritas
CO USS James Cook
&

===================
Capt. Tarmis Jeram

Executive Officer
USS James Cook NCC-2098-A

On> Counselor Domina's Office.

Following her visit with Commodore Veritas, Chiara returned to her office for a little peace and quiet before her next scheduled appointment, which turned out to be the ship's Chief Science Officer, LtJg Arianai K Vasata.

Arianai nervously approaches the Counselor's office. Straightening her uniform, she chimes for entry.

"Enter." Chiara said. She walked over to the replicator and ordered a pitcher of water and a pair of glasses. "You must be Lt. Vasata. Please have a seat... make yourself comfortable."

"Thank you Counselor." She takes a seat where indicated. "Welcome aboard by the way. Stations on the Cook are hard to come by. How did you get so lucky?"

"I kinda fell into it. I was assigned to the USS Viper before. I was onboard when she went rouge and the Commodore decided to keep me on as ship's counselor." Domina replied.

Arianai chuckled, "I heard about that." She takes a sip of water, trying to clear her throat. "So...This is the standard get to know you visit, right?" she asked.

"Pretty much. You're one of the few senior officers I've yet to get to know. I think we've only seen each other in passing." She said. "So, tell me a little about yourself."

Fidgeting a little, "As Vasata, this is my fourth joining. I have found Arianai to be an excellent fit. Although..." she replies, blushing a bit.

"Although?" Domina asked.

Still blushing, "I tend to get distracted by intriguing problems. Vasata is constantly pulling me back to awareness. Interestingly, this problem is usually reversed in joined Trill..." Her throat clears, and the faraway look in her eyes disappears. "See what I mean?"

"Reversed, meaning that the symbiote is the one to get distracted and not the host?" She asked.

"Exactly. We have been asked to join studies on it, but I'd rather be the scientist, and not the subject." she replies.

"Understandable." Domina replied. "I thought that the Trill had refined the joining to a precise science, though."

"I...we...must be unique in this regard. Under normal conditions, it poses no problem. Do you see it differently?" Arianai asks.

"Not at all. It's your personal preference and I am not one to tell someone that what they prefer is wrong." Domina replied.

"There isn't much more to tell then, really. Do you have any questions for me." she asks. She fidgets a little more, trying to find a comfortable position.

"There are relativley few Trill serving in Star Fleet, especially joined Trill. What made you decide to join?" Domina asked.

Mulling this over a bit, Arianai answered, "Being scientists, as Trill and symbiont, joining Starfleet gave us the best opportunities to explore strange new worlds, to boldly go...if I may quote poorly." She offers a slight smile.

"Good enough for me." Domina replied. "The dream of flying among the stars and discovering new things has been the driving force of many people over the last couple hundred years."

"Tell me... How do you feel about serving aboard the USS James Cook?" She asked.

Arianai sits a little straighter, "As flagship, the Cook has an impeccable reputation...and a fine crew."

Domina notes the show of pride. "How would you rate the efficiency of the ship?"

"I would say that we would not have received the commission we did, if there were problems. I'd say we rate pretty high in that regard.” She answered.

"Is there anything else you would like to discuss?" Domina asked. "Anything on your mind, or comments and opinions on recent ship's events?"

"It is not my place to comment on anything that may or may not have happened, outside my immediate sphere of influence. Although..." she paused, trying to read the Counselor, "I am concerned that we may become distracted if tempers cannot be controlled." she finished.

"Can you elaborate?" Domina asked.

Arianai hesitated only briefly, "The scuttle-butt aboard ship, is that we are losing our XO. I know that things happen, and I wasn't there, but...I don't want to get involved." she finally answered.

“I wouldn’t worry about that, Arianai. I trust the Commodore will be able to handle it.” Domina said.

"I know. All things work out, in the end. I have been working, in my space time, on an axiom that would prove that." she said.

"That they do." Domina replied. She looked at her PADD. "I have another appointment in 5 minutes. We can talk again later if you like. I'm always available." Domina said.

Quickly standing, Arianai replied, "Thank you Counselor. Again, welcome aboard. I trust I shall see you again sometime."

"Of course." Domina said with a smile. "I look forward to serving with you."

That said, Arianai left Domina's office, heading back to her Science station, to continue her analysis of the communications recently received.

Off>

JP

LtJG Arianai K Vasata
Chief Science Officer
 

===================
Counselor Chiara Domina

USS James Cook NCC-2098-A
 

On> McMurhy's Pub, Cape Kenndey, Florida, Terra Mater

Capt. Lisa Hayes sat with Lieutenants Sterling and Santiago
in a corner of the pub. It was hard to tell what there was more of on the table: beer bottles or technical manuals. The three had worked together for quite awhile on the Star Freedom Project and had all become close friends. That was good, as over the course of the last five months that had seen more of each other then thier husbands or thier families.

But they agreed that that was the price of the dream, and dream they all shared and believed in. A dream to be the first to venture beyond the confines of the solar system.

Hayes came from a Navy background. She started as a fighter pilot during the third Gulf War and had the disinction of over 100 confirmed kills in that conflict alone. She as an ace many times over and regarded as one of the best pilots in the world. She learned leadership as she rose through the ranks of her squadron. It was no wonder why NASA wanted her to fly the Star Freedom, and over the past ten years she has done just that, flying test runs in simulators, mock ups, and even taking the Star Freedom for a sub-light spin on two occasions, both of which to test the Ion drives that took her to the moon and back under the watchful eyes of Kennedy Station.

Lt. Sterling wasn't really a Lieutenant... she was a test pilot from Lockeed-Martina's Skunkworks. Though she was not the best, she was the best volunteer for the mission, a mission which on her merits alone earned her an honorary commission in the US Air Force.

Lt. Santiago was also UDSAF, serving at the beginning of her career as a flight engineer on long-range bombers, but her technical abilities quickly earned her a spot on the Star Freedom Team. Other pilots had been selected, but only as back up crews.

These three, in the eyes of NASA and in the eyes of Amorica, were the elite, best of the best. Their names would be forever immotalized in histroy, even if the mission was not a success.

Hayes looke up from her bottle of MGD. "Ok, let's go over this one more time... once we hit Waypoint Delta we..."

"We power up the warp core." Santiago Volunteered. "We switich power from the sublight to the FTL bus."

"After you program in the flight plan." Sterling said after polishing off her fifth beer.

"Which we recieve from Kennedy Station." Hayes finished. She was glad that her team knew her well enough. The mission required that they be able to think alike and act as one.

"Skipper... What do you think is out there... really?" Sterling asked.

"Hell, I don't know kid... Could be anything... Little Green Women... Klingons.... You know, those guys from 'Star Trek'.

"I can't believe you watch that stuff." Santiago interjected

"Hey, why not... I mean this is what that show was all about... A crew of women exploring the stars, going where no one had gone before... discovering exotic and alien worlds..."

"Yeah... and the captain was a slut." Santiago offered.

Hayes snickered... "Yeah, she was... but some of those aliens were pretty cute."

"Yeah, like the doctor on the Next Generation... Dr. Jack Crusher..."

"Hey, those shows are ancient..." Santiago griped.

"Yeah, but they're still good." Hayes defended. Santiago softened her hard expression... "So you think they're out there... Aliens...?" She said in a hush.

"I'm willing to bet my career on it." Hayes replied. "We'd be arrogant to think that we are truly alone in this universe. I am sure that in the Goddess's infinite wisdom, that there are other inhabited planets in our galaxy... and some day we will find them. If not us, then our children, or grandchildren... but some day we will make contact."

Santiago smiled. "That's a beautiful dream, Captain. I hope it does come true..."

Hayes held her hand out. "I'm living my dream."

Sterling laid her hand over Hayes' "I'm not living my dream, but this is gonna be one helluva ride."

Santiago put her hand on top. "Well, someone is going to have to go along to keep the ship running and the two of you in line."

They picked up fresh beers and clinked them together...

"To the Star Freedom... may she realize our dreams and the dreams of the world!"

"Cheers, then" Her crew replied and they all drank.

OFF>

On> Domina's Quarters.

Following a morning of appointments and mixed emotions, Domina collapsed on her bed and rubbed her temples. She was thankful she still had her vision, but the headaches from the blossoming psychic powers were getting out of hand. She reached for a bottle of painkillers and popped a few as she sat up.

She looked over to the coffee table in the living room and saw Vin Tamar's lightsaber that Rafe had given her in The Star Chamber. She remembered his comment that she had handled herself well during the fight.... the fight... she questioned herself as to why she wanted to remember an event that nearly ended her career, Rafe's career and nearly drove Tarmis out of Star Fleet.

She walked over to the lightsaber and picked it up. An idea danced across her thoughts and she quickly changed into the leather and latex uniform she had worn on the Klingon ship she was previously assigned to. With lightsaber in hand, she made her way to the holodeck.

Once there, she looked through the selection of combat training programs and found one that Rafe had put together... one dealing with lightsabers. She accessed the program and entered.

Elsie finally had some free time and headed for the holodeck for some down time. As she passed Holodeck 2, she noticed the menu was up for one of Rafe's lightsaber programs. "Who would be accessing that program?" She asked herself. "Computer, entrance." She stepped into the nearly-bare practice room.

Inside, Domina was locked in battle with a faceless, black robed figure. The two were a near even match for each other as they traded blows. The room was filled with the hisses and hums of the energy weapons crashing together.

Elsie watched Chiara's moves. The counselor was a natural, whereas she herself had to work at it. Even with martial arts training, using a blade was still awkward for Elsie.

Domina countered each attack, being able to see it coming. Her parries were clumsy, but adequate. She was spending more time on the defensive then trying to attack, however.

Elsie thought briefly perhaps she should be spending more time in practice, but her heart was not in it. She still reeled from the challenge in Ten-forward, and her mind raced over the previous events on her ship involving a lightsaber. A warrior she was not, nor would she ever be.

Domina reeled back from a heavy-handed attack. The fighter she was facing began to use more forceful attacks to overpower her rather than simply get past her. He pushed her off her feet, sending her to fall flat on her butt.

Elsie jumped up from her seated position and ordered, "Computer, freeze program!"

The fighter immediately froze. Domina was trying to recover on the deck, but was seriously fumbling around trying to find her lightsaber.

Elsie walked over to Chiara and stood over her. "You need a live instructor."

"I need to see, dammit!'" She spit as she was still fumbling around. She grabbed a leg, thinking it was the warrior, but instead it was Elsie. She grabbed hold of the leg and pulled Elsie down and placed her into a crude chokehold. Chiara was not aware of her mistake until a misplaced hand found its way to Elsie's breast. "Oh shit." She gasped and released the hold.

Elsie sat up and saw that Chiara was practicing blind. "How long have you been like this?" She asked, very concerned.

"I... I lost sight half way into the fight. I was still relying on my flashes and intuition up until he overpowered me." She said. "I'm sorry, Commodore... for tackling you and swearing."

Elsie chuckled, knowing she wouldn't see a smile. "That is all right, Chiara. You are off duty right now, and I have heard a lot worse than that!" Elsie leaned in close to peer in her face. “Perhaps you need to learn to rely on your other senses. Being blind does no one any good, and if it happens in an emergency, not only you, but others could be in danger, unless your abilities make up for your lack of sight."

"Yeah... it just sucks, you know?" She said. Domina crawled to the wall and climbed her way up. "Life was... so much easier before this. I didn't have to worry about nothin.' I didn't have to listen to other's problems... Just mom, Seattle and the woods and mountains." Domina leaned back on the wall. "Now I get these visions almost daily and the blindness gets longer each time."

"I guess now I get to be blind and alone... a freak." Tears started to stream down her face. "My family disowned me, Tamar thought he could get away with his crap, and now Tarmy has turned his back on me and everything else he loved... Elsie, what did I do to deserve all of this?" She cried as she sank down to the floor.

"I think you need to start seeing Dr. T'Khat. She might be able to perform a Vulcan healing or at least help you control your abilities in some way."

"I hope so." Domina said. "I don't know how much more I can take of this."

Elsie reached over and tucked a stray hair from Chiara's face behind her ear. "You are out of control. You must find a way to establish control of your abilities. I happen to know that Vulcan healers are quite good at that."

"Vulcans are creepy... they don't smile... they don't laugh... not even a 'he he' once in a while." She said. "Thier stiff as a board and bad in bed." She continued.

Elsie raised an eyebrow, "Oh you think so? I'll tell you a secret, Counselor. Vulcans are not all as calm as they appear in public. Without daily mediation, their body chemistry goes haywire and they lose complete control of their emotions. A few, however are able to manage some sort of emotional life. However, if you have a mental problem, trained healers are unsurpassed in the Alpha quadrant."

"Yeah? so what, do I like have to go to Vulcan or something? Wouldn't mind... since there's not much left for me here with Tarmy tucking tail and running."

"No, you can stay on the ship and see Dr. T'Khat. You can even continue your duties when you are physically able. Oh, and Counselor, Captain Tarmis rescinded his resignation. He and I have our differences, but I believe we can still work them out. And he wants to start seeing you professionally to work out his own emotions in the wake of his transformation."

"He's... He's staying?" She asked.

"Yes, "Elsie smiled, "He is staying."

Domina smiled... she couldn't express in words her relief. She tried to stand again.

"C'mon," Elsie said and she helped Domina up off the deck. "Let me get you to your quarters."

"Ok." She said.

Elsie tapped her commbadge, "Site-to-site transport, two to Counselor Domina's quarters."

Instantly, they were transported to Domina's quarters. The cabin was slightly messy, reflecting on the occupant's chaotic moods as of late, no to mention the emotional distress.

Elsie's commbadge chirped. =/\=Bridge to Commodore Veritas=/\=

Elsie tapped her commbadge, "Veritas here."

"Commodore, we're on the outer edges of the Terra Mater system." The bridge officer said.

"On my way. Veritas, out. Chiara, are you going to be all right alone?"

"I guess... I'll just sit here and sing to myself or something." She said. Domina hated being alone when she lost her sight.

Elsie thought a minute. "Wait. I have an idea. Something that Rafe does."

"What's that?" Domina asked.

Elsie went over to the replicator, and then typed in an order. She glanced over her shoulder, took an appraising look at Chiara, and then finished typing. IN the tray appeared a set of sunglasses with Terran sixty’s styling. She came back to Chiara and slipped them on her face. "There you go. Sunglasses!" Now when you can see again, you can order the style you are comfortable with. Care to accompany me to the bridge? We have a First Contact situation and I need you."

Domina adjusted the horn-rimmed sunglasses on her face. "Feels weird... is this supposed to help me see?"

"I didn't know Rafe was blind." She added.

"No, it is supposed to hide the condition of your eyes form the crew so they don't stare. Rafe uses them to hide his scar."

"Ok, I guess." Domina said.
OFF>
JP

Commodore Elsie Veritas
CO USS James Cook

&

===================
Counselor Chiara Domina

USS James Cook NCC-2098-A

Rafe sat in his car outside of the VLA. With binoculars, he watched Nancy Devers enter the shack that was serving as the SETI communications and monitoring center. Rafe knew that the time would come soon to reveal to her who he was and why he was there.

On his TV screen in the car, a special bulletin interrupted the soap opera he had been listening to.

“This is Rita Monroe, reporting live from Cape Kennedy. In about one minute’s time, the space shuttle Star Freedom will launch and fly into history, becoming the first Terra Materian space craft to ever travel faster then the speed of light. We now go live to mission control.”

10…
“Star Freedom, Control, initiate main power sequence.”
“Main power sequence initiated.”

9…
“Control, Star Freedom. Pre-flight complete. All systems go.”

8…
“Star Freedom Control. Standby for control check.”

7…
“Star Freedom, Control. Main systems go. Main buss shows green.”

6…
“Main engine Startup…. Booster startup.”

The screen switched to a close up of the solid fuel rockets coming to life, belching out fire and smoke.

5…
“Star Freedom, control. Standby for launch.”

4…
“Retract Service arms.”

3…
“Mooring clamps retracted.”

2…
Star Freedom, Control… Goddess Speed.”

1…
“Control, Star Freedom… Goddess Speed Aye.”

0…
“Liftoff.”

The shuttle and underbelly fuel tank was lifted into the air by the massive booster rockets connected to the side of the ship. The shuttle trailed a pillar of smoke that would be seen for miles, but this time it would be a sign of a changing future for the planet.

Rafe watched as the shuttle broke free from her earthly bounds. He pressed a button and a small antenna unfolded from the top of the car and pointed to the heavens.

“Mother Cook, Mother Cook, Lone Wolf… Star Freedom has launched. Condition Bronze.” Rafe reported. He closed the channel immediately afterwards.

Rafe looked back over to the SETI shack... it was now only a matter of time.

Off>

Capt. Rafe Oosha

Chief Intelligence Officer
USS James Cook NCC-2098-A
"Wisdom begins in wonder."

ON> Bridge

"Entering Terra Mater system, Ma'am." Navigation announced.

"Standard Orbit."

"Standard Orbit, Aye."

"Ma'am, there is a launch taking place. Solid-rocket fuel." Rh'vaurek reported.

"On screen."

The crew watched as the cradled shuttle flew from it's Mother's nest on large booster rockets. The rockets fell away and the shuttlecraft pierced the invisible barrier between atmosphere and space.

It didn't take a Betazoid to realize that this was a turning point in Terra Mater's history. The crew held its collective breath as the shuttle paused, unfolded its warp nacelles, then leap into Warp one!

"Follow their trail, maintain distance."

The USS James Cook watched the tiny three-woman craft take its first leap into space.

Off>

Commodore Elsie Veritas

CO U.S.S. James Cook
Python Fleet Flagship

ON> COS office
Shi had walked over from her office to join the meeting with Daniel's family. She sat down and waited for Rh'vaurek

Rh'vaurek came down from the bridge on the turbolift. He walked into his office "Jolan'tru Shi, you ready?" Rh'vaurek asked in a welcoming voice.

Shi replied with a smile "Jolan'tru Rh'vaurek. Yes I am ready and I believe the two people approaching are Daniel's parents.

Rh'vaurek took a seat behind his desk and waited for them to arrive

LT Carrington looked nervous as he spoke to his wife "I guess this is the place it says COS office I can not imagine what he wants to speak to us about.

They walked in and looked at Rh'vaurek behind the desk. They backed away a little when they saw that he and the other officer were Romulan. ~These must be the Exchange officers he had heard so much about~.

Lt Carrington stood at attention. He spoke "Cmdr "I am Lt.Roger Carrington and this is my wife Linda. I understand you want to speak to us."

"Indeed i do and it is about your son" replied Rh'vaurek.

Lt. Carrington said "Oh I see you arrested my son and held him in the brig for 2 days I want an explanation."

"your son has been involved in sixteen fights and he finally ended up putting someone in sickbay" Rh'vaurek handed Lt. Carrington the medical report on the other youth involved in the fight.

Lt Carrington turned pale as he read the report and handed it to his wife. The injuries were serious and the other boy would be in sickbay for another week.

"You say my boy did this" asked Carrington.

"Yes he did" replied Rh'vaurek.

Mrs Carrington spoke up. "He must have attacked him. My boy would not do this unless he was attacked. Those rough boys especially the Alien ones are always picking on him" Lt Carrington looked daggers at her.

Rh'vaurek locked eyes with Linda "No Steven Cane is human, along with most of the other youths involved in the fights"

Mrs Carrington opened her mouth but Lt Carrington interrupted her with a look "Sorry Cmdr my wife is very defensive of our son. I want to know the truth. I taught Daniel to fight to defend himself. What you are saying does not sound like self-defense. Please lay it out for me. And Linda you stay out of it"

"Daniel has gone around finding other youths who are supposedly good at fighting, and challenging them" Rh'vaurek explained in his cold monotone voice.

Lt Carrington looked shocked. Why would he do such a thing?"

"He is claiming to be a warrior" Rh'vaurek answered.
Lt Carrington shook his headd "I do not understand my son. Why would he claim such a thing? He never learned that from me. I am not even sure what it means"

Linda put on a longsuffering look and shrugged her shoulders "I for one do not believe it" she stated

"he learnt it from a Klingon youth named Dog Tag,