Memorial Service - USS Burke(Open to All)

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian turned towards the familiar voice and smiled ad he shook Ruth's hand.

"It's good ta see you Ruth. It's been too long since we walked the decks of the Tempest. I just wish they would make up their bloody mind on if'n they will upgrade or mothball her.

"And I'd certainly love ta share a drink ta old times and absent companions. Last mission was a close run thing, and one never know when one's number is up, The Burke proved that."

[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Lounge]

"Ha!, tell me about it... I've been on the Challenger for the last... year, 10 months of that as Captain, chasing around after ex-Admiral Leyton.  Were it not for some bloody lucky timings, religious folks might call them miracles, I like to think it was more luck and a few brilliant if somewhat hare-brained yet brilliant schemes on the part of my Chief Engineer...we might have suffered even more casualties than we did. "  Ruth said with a grin for the hare-brained schemes followed by a sad look, for those lost.

"Ah poor old Tempest, she doesn't deserve what was done to her, but anyhow, I'm technically Ruth Waring now and... " she let out a sigh.  "I don't know what's happening with Will at the moment, he's MIA, and I don't just mean in terms of being around me.  I mean totally MIA."  she left off the bit about him being '...presumed dead....' that was personal info, and while she liked and respected Ian, it was enough to be at a memorial service, her emotions were only just in control, as tears welled up in her eyes, she managed to keep them in check only because she knew that, while Ian's heart was in the right place, a lot of people thought he didn't have one, and he probably wouldn't appreciate having an old colleague crying around him and not knowing if he should comfort her or not.

"I had to do this prior to leaving Innominatum, and write countless letters to parents, wives, children.  It's not a job I like at all, but you know what they say, it's tough at the top!" she gave a half, very rueful smile.

"By the way, I remembered how much you like good Scotch.  I had a bottle sent to your quarters.  For old times sake.  We are old comrades in arms after all, and I had access to several bars in Innominatum.  They were pretty good about getting non-Synth in for the discerning customer!  It's Kilchoman, I don't know if you're familiar with the name, this is a 16 year old and I kept a bottle myself, it's good stuff."

[Nira Said]

[USS Discovery - Lounge on Deck 6]

Johnson had been listening on what everyone was seeing. Fela's eyes widen as a Bolian pilot came walking. "Excuse me!" She was quick on her feet toward the Bolian. Johnson smiled.

Don turned to Nira. "Yes. The truth I believe 'ALL' pilots are friends. Except when we compete against each other. Then pilots gloves are off!" He exclaimed. His eyes checked her out. Not interested in her. Just a quick look over. "You look pretty. How you doing?" he asked Nira

[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Lounge]

Ruth heard the announcement and wondered when she might have to have one for Will.  For the time being he was 'missing', she'd not yet faced the fact of the other half of that sentence in the message she'd received.  '... Presumed dead...'

She decided that it was as good a time as any to put in an appearance and so put on her dress uniform and headed for the Lounge.

Entering she nodded and smiled to those that looked her way, and spotting Ian Galloway she walked up to him.

"Forgive the intrusion, I don't think I know many other people Commander Galloway.  I just wanted to say hi, long time no see.  I agree with what you just said though, I don't know anyone from the Burke but seemed appropriate to pay respects."

In a low whisper she said "If I could have a moment of your time after this, I'd be appreciative.  I doubt the Lounge has any decent Scotch unless you've seen to that, but I'd like to have a drink with you for old times sake."

Turning to the Grazerite and the young cadet, she said "Greetings, I'm Commander Ruth Sigurdsdottir, I'll be your Chief Science Officer in due course."

Looking over and spotting a Vulcan she hadn't seen in years.  "Is that T'Lara? We were Ensigns together on our first posting, of course I was in Flight at the time, not Sciences! I didn't think anything of it when the comms came through, it didn't register!"

[Lieutenant JG Nira Said | Lounge | Deck Six | USS Discovery NCC-78393-B]

"Well, thank you," said Nira to Lieutenant Addams. She hasn't done much, but a compliment's a compliment.

She also bore in mind what T'Lara mentioned. She had the good start of a eulogy, in a way.

As she looked around, she suddenly saw someone with a familiar tuft of red hair. Nira approached her for a closer look and recognized her immediately. She always had a good memory for faces, especially when she first came aboard.

"Commander Sigurdsdottir?" said Nira, regardless of how her surname was a mouthful. "Good to meet you again. I'm Lieutenant Nira Said. I remember you from the Athena; you gave me my first lab, if I remember, specifically you gave me permission to use one of the science labs as my forensic science lab. It was virtually on my first week, if not my first day."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Lieutenant JG Nira Said | Lounge | Deck Six | USS Discovery NCC-78393-B]

"Well, thank you," said Nira to Lieutenant Addams. She hasn't done much, but a compliment's a compliment.

She also bore in mind what T'Lara mentioned. She had the good start of a eulogy, in a way.

As she looked around, she suddenly saw someone with a familiar tuft of red hair. Nira approached her for a closer look and recognized her immediately. She always had a good memory for faces, especially when she first came aboard.

"Commander Sigurdsdottir?" said Nira, regardless of how her surname was a mouthful. "Good to meet you again. I'm Lieutenant Nira Said. I remember you from the Athena; you gave me my first lab, if I remember, specifically you gave me permission to use one of the science labs as my forensic science lab. It was virtually on my first week, if not my first day."

"Nira!  I'm sorry I almost didn't recognise you! Of course I remember you!  Forensics was particularly interesting so naturally I wasn't going to pass up on letting you have your own space for that!  And please, unless you have to be formal, plain old Ruth does.  I know my name is a mouthful, even if I am technically 'Waring' now.  I married, but because it looked likely for a while that we might both end up in command of a ship we decided for professional purposes to keep our original names, no hyphenation - Gods, could you imagine making my name longer?!" Ruth joked.

"I presume that you have your own space for a lab on the Discovery, but as the incoming CSO, if you need anything from Sciences... come find me!  I'll be happy to help!"

Ruth felt more at ease knowing that at least 2 of her Challenger crewmates were on the ship, Lek who she knew and trusted, and Zavrol Gohun, she would need to touch base with him and let him know that if he needed anything, other than his Department Head obviously, she was available for being a familiar face and someone to talk to until he got used to being on a new ship.

And now knowing that T'Lara and Nira were on this ship too, made things feel more like 'home'.  She was used to being posted wherever she was needed, but it always helped that there were some people that you know.

She relaxed a little knowing that she could be happy here, possibly.  If it were possible to be happy without Will, or her righthand man, her Blue Man... Lahr... Gods she was going to miss him.  And would he ever forgive her for not saying a proper goodbye?

[T'Lara]

[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Lounge]

Ruth heard the announcement and wondered when she might have to have one for Will.  For the time being he was 'missing', she'd not yet faced the fact of the other half of that sentence in the message she'd received.  '... Presumed dead...'

She decided that it was as good a time as any to put in an appearance and so put on her dress uniform and headed for the Lounge.

Entering she nodded and smiled to those that looked her way, and spotting Ian Galloway she walked up to him.

"Forgive the intrusion, I don't think I know many other people Commander Galloway.  I just wanted to say hi, long time no see.  I agree with what you just said though, I don't know anyone from the Burke but seemed appropriate to pay respects."

In a low whisper she said "If I could have a moment of your time after this, I'd be appreciative.  I doubt the Lounge has any decent Scotch unless you've seen to that, but I'd like to have a drink with you for old times sake."

Turning to the Grazerite and the young cadet, she said "Greetings, I'm Commander Ruth Sigurdsdottir, I'll be your Chief Science Officer in due course."

Looking over and spotting a Vulcan she hadn't seen in years.  "Is that T'Lara? We were Ensigns together on our first posting, of course I was in Flight at the time, not Sciences! I didn't think anything of it when the comms came through, it didn't register!"

[Deck 6 - Lounge - USS Discovery]

She greeted a couple more people, including the science officer from the USS Burke, Lieutenant William Pfizer, whom she'd worked with to devise a plan to save his crew. She was very pleased he had decided to come, and had spent a good amount of time talking with him about advancements in science and how the Federation had changed. She felt their relationship had strengthened and they promised to keep in touch. As their conversation drew to a close she overheard her name coming from another group of people, where she spotted a familiar head of red hair. Bidding farewell to Pfizer, she made her way over. Inserting herself quietly with a short bow, she waited for a break in the conversation.

"Commander Sigurdsdottir, it is acceptable to see you again," she greeted amiably.

[Danjar-Torra Addams]

Ensign Danjar-Torra Addams
[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Forward Lounge]

Torra watched quietly as T'Lara discreetly stepped away to mingle with other guests.  She however was content to continue speaking with Nira and Commander Galloway.

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian smiled warmly at Torra as he replied.

"Even though I didn't get ta meet any of the crew of the Burke first hand, bein' somewhat the worst for wear after that bit with the Borg, I had ta pay my respects ta the fallen. No easy thing ta lose so many regardless of the circumstance."

"Discovery has been fortunate." was Torra's soft reply.  But rumor had it that would change... with transfers of key personnel.  Nothing had been spoken officially but rumors abound.

USS Discovery - Deck 6 -Forward Lounge

Luby had heard the announcement and while she was new to the Discovery thought that she should, as medical personnel, be on hand to comfort those affected by the deaths if necessary.

She stepped inside the doors and looked around, she spotted a Grazerite and gave a shy smile.

"I have come to the right place haven't I?" she asked tremulously.

The trembling voice caught the Grazerites attention and Torra turned a warm smile on the woman.  "Hello.  If you are looking to remember those lost on the USS Burke, then yes you are at the right spot.  My name is Torra."  Torra didn't remember the young woman's face as one of those saved from the Burke, but then Torra hadn't been present for all the transporter matrix fixes.  Mind you Discovery had also taken a few new members.   "Were you crewed on the Burke?"

She noticed that another approach, a rather lively and talkative officer.  Torra dipped her head politely in deference to the rank but said nothing at first as the woman spoke to the Commander.

[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Lounge]

Turning to the Grazerite and the young cadet, she said "Greetings, I'm Commander Ruth Sigurdsdottir, I'll be your Chief Science Officer in due course."

Again Torra dipped her head.  "Welcome to the Discovery, Commander.  I am Danjar-Torra Addams.  I go by Ensign Danjar-Addams not to be confused with my husband." Torra nodded toward Donny.

Then sensing that this lively personality might deter the shy young woman from remaining long, Torra moved a few steps away so that the cadet wouldn't feel overwhelmed.

[Ian Galloway]

[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Lounge]

"Ha!, tell me about it... I've been on the Challenger for the last... year, 10 months of that as Captain, chasing around after ex-Admiral Leyton.  Were it not for some bloody lucky timings, religious folks might call them miracles, I like to think it was more luck and a few brilliant if somewhat hare-brained yet brilliant schemes on the part of my Chief Engineer...we might have suffered even more casualties than we did. "  Ruth said with a grin for the hare-brained schemes followed by a sad look, for those lost.

"Ah poor old Tempest, she doesn't deserve what was done to her, but anyhow, I'm technically Ruth Waring now and... " she let out a sigh.  "I don't know what's happening with Will at the moment, he's MIA, and I don't just mean in terms of being around me.  I mean totally MIA."  she left off the bit about him being '...presumed dead....' that was personal info, and while she liked and respected Ian, it was enough to be at a memorial service, her emotions were only just in control, as tears welled up in her eyes, she managed to keep them in check only because she knew that, while Ian's heart was in the right place, a lot of people thought he didn't have one, and he probably wouldn't appreciate having an old colleague crying around him and not knowing if he should comfort her or not.

"I had to do this prior to leaving Innominatum, and write countless letters to parents, wives, children.  It's not a job I like at all, but you know what they say, it's tough at the top!" she gave a half, very rueful smile.

"By the way, I remembered how much you like good Scotch.  I had a bottle sent to your quarters.  For old times sake.  We are old comrades in arms after all, and I had access to several bars in Innominatum.  They were pretty good about getting non-Synth in for the discerning customer!  It's Kilchoman, I don't know if you're familiar with the name, this is a 16 year old and I kept a bottle myself, it's good stuff."

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian listened to Ruth detail her assignment and was glad to know that Leyton was finally where he belonged and wondered how long it would take Starfleet to recover from that particular fiasco.

He was about to congratulate Ruth for her marriage, but stopped short when she mentioned that her husband was 'missing', that did not bode well.

"Och, I remember Commander Waring well. He was first officer on the Tempest when I came aboard as a cadet. I nae want ta offer platitudes, so I will simply say, missin' is not dead, until there is proof, there is hope."

His eyebrows arched when she mentioned the scotch and he frowned a bit as he replied.

"Ruth, you dinnae have ta do summat like that. An actual bottle of Kilchoman must have cost you a couple bars of gold pressed latinum. That's a pretty extravagant gift, even for old comrades at arms."

[Tekin Nevir]

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Nevir finally straightened his uniform for the 5th time, and was finally happy with how it looked.  He looked down at the tray in the bathroom, and picked up the hypospray, pressing it to his neck and injecting what was the last dose of the treatment for the Burke effect he was subjected to.  The downside of Bajoran physiology made him more susceptible to what they named the unusual and horrific fate that wiped out the ship they were honoring today.  Checking the white dress uniform one last time, he turned on his heels, and left his quarters, headed for the lounge.

Many of the surviving staff were still in recovery; even with the molecular DNA reconstruction there was radiation neutralization that had to be done, much like him.  At least in the case of the away team, which all ended up having a dose of the radiation, their quantum signature had never changed.  Some of the Burke crew were better than others, but some were in worse condition.  Some still didn't really understand what had even happened.

Coming up to the doors of the lounge, he was greeted by a couple of security guards in dress uniforms, who nodded as they stepped aside to let the captain through, and the doors opened, automatically signally the room to give a whistle as the commanding officer on deck entered.  With a classic Picard tug, he calmly walked passed the gathered crowd, and over to the collection of officers that included Ian and hopefully T'Lara.

"Are we ready to begin?"

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Deck 6 - Lounge - USS Discovery]

She greeted a couple more people, including the science officer from the USS Burke, Lieutenant William Pfizer, whom she'd worked with to devise a plan to save his crew. She was very pleased he had decided to come, and had spent a good amount of time talking with him about advancements in science and how the Federation had changed. She felt their relationship had strengthened and they promised to keep in touch. As their conversation drew to a close she overheard her name coming from another group of people, where she spotted a familiar head of red hair. Bidding farewell to Pfizer, she made her way over. Inserting herself quietly with a short bow, she waited for a break in the conversation.

"Commander Sigurdsdottir, it is acceptable to see you again," she greeted amiably.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ruth grinned, this for T'Lara was practically running over and giving her a massive hug.

"Long time no see, Lt. Commander.  It is indeed acceptable to see you too.  Do you still like dabbling in Science?  If so, I'd love to see you in the labs sometime, we can catch up on news over a cup of tea!" the Science officer offered.

Ensign Danjar-Torra Addams
[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Forward Lounge]

Torra watched quietly as T'Lara discreetly stepped away to mingle with other guests.  She however was content to continue speaking with Nira and Commander Galloway.

"Discovery has been fortunate." was Torra's soft reply.  But rumor had it that would change... with transfers of key personnel.  Nothing had been spoken officially but rumors abound.

The trembling voice caught the Grazerites attention and Torra turned a warm smile on the woman.  "Hello.  If you are looking to remember those lost on the USS Burke, then yes you are at the right spot.  My name is Torra."  Torra didn't remember the young woman's face as one of those saved from the Burke, but then Torra hadn't been present for all the transporter matrix fixes.  Mind you Discovery had also taken a few new members.   "Were you crewed on the Burke?"

She noticed that another approach, a rather lively and talkative officer.  Torra dipped her head politely in deference to the rank but said nothing at first as the woman spoke to the Commander.

Again Torra dipped her head.  "Welcome to the Discovery, Commander.  I am Danjar-Torra Addams.  I go by Ensign Danjar-Addams not to be confused with my husband." Torra nodded toward Donny.

Then sensing that this lively personality might deter the shy young woman from remaining long, Torra moved a few steps away so that the cadet wouldn't feel overwhelmed.

"Pleased to meet you Ensign.  I'm sure I'll get all the names and faces put together soon but, pardon me for pointing it out, there can't be too many Grazerites on the Discovery so I don't think I'll forget you in a hurry." Ruth said with a smile.  She turned the smile on the young cadet too and whispered.

"It's ok... we all have a first ship, if you have 5 mins sometime come down to Sciences sometime I'll regale you with a couple of stories about my first tour of duty that will make your hair raise! How I ever wore a red shirt other than in when I was in the Flight Department you may never know!" she said with a wink.  The cadet gave a sheepish grin and nodded.

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian listened to Ruth detail her assignment and was glad to know that Leyton was finally where he belonged and wondered how long it would take Starfleet to recover from that particular fiasco.

He was about to congratulate Ruth for her marriage, but stopped short when she mentioned that her husband was 'missing', that did not bode well.

"Och, I remember Commander Waring well. He was first officer on the Tempest when I came aboard as a cadet. I nae want ta offer platitudes, so I will simply say, missin' is not dead, until there is proof, there is hope."

His eyebrows arched when she mentioned the scotch and he frowned a bit as he replied.

"Ruth, you dinnae have ta do summat like that. An actual bottle of Kilchoman must have cost you a couple bars of gold pressed latinum. That's a pretty extravagant gift, even for old comrades at arms."

"Pffft, let's say I called in a few favours.  I'd turned a blind eye to a little bit of smuggling of non-important stuff that Pickle and a few of the Ferengi traders did, them making a few bars of GPL on the side..." Ruth shrugged.  "So when I asked them to get certain stuff that still carried duty, it was all above board and so on but they didn't mind giving me the odd bottle or 3!"

She took a very deep breath and then continued.  "As for Will, I know, but that's the reason I'm here.  They didn't think I could hack it waiting for news and running a starship after the drama we've had recently, hence demotion and putting me somewhere useful.  I do love my Science, so it might take my brain off worrying so much.  I'm going to miss people on the Challenger however.  Some more than others.  Oh do you think the Captain is going to have a problem if I have my twin sisters here sometimes?  I'm 'home' for them when they're not at Academy, also, a collie dog... technically theirs but I've adopted her...."  Ruth looked sheepish and rubbed a hand around the back of her neck.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Nevir finally straightened his uniform for the 5th time, and was finally happy with how it looked.  He looked down at the tray in the bathroom, and picked up the hypospray, pressing it to his neck and injecting what was the last dose of the treatment for the Burke effect he was subjected to.  The downside of Bajoran physiology made him more susceptible to what they named the unusual and horrific fate that wiped out the ship they were honoring today.  Checking the white dress uniform one last time, he turned on his heels, and left his quarters, headed for the lounge.

Many of the surviving staff were still in recovery; even with the molecular DNA reconstruction there was radiation neutralization that had to be done, much like him.  At least in the case of the away team, which all ended up having a dose of the radiation, their quantum signature had never changed.  Some of the Burke crew were better than others, but some were in worse condition.  Some still didn't really understand what had even happened.

Coming up to the doors of the lounge, he was greeted by a couple of security guards in dress uniforms, who nodded as they stepped aside to let the captain through, and the doors opened, automatically signally the room to give a whistle as the commanding officer on deck entered.  With a classic Picard tug, he calmly walked passed the gathered crowd, and over to the collection of officers that included Ian and hopefully T'Lara.

"Are we ready to begin?"

Ruth shuffled nervously tho she didn't know why.  "Captain Tekin, may I take this opportunity to say formally, Commander Sigurdsdottir, reporting for duty!  Sorry, I seem to have monopolised some of your officers! We are old shipmates some of us."

[Luby Wentock]

Ensign Danjar-Torra Addams
[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Forward Lounge]

Torra watched quietly as T'Lara discreetly stepped away to mingle with other guests.  She however was content to continue speaking with Nira and Commander Galloway.

"Discovery has been fortunate." was Torra's soft reply.  But rumor had it that would change... with transfers of key personnel.  Nothing had been spoken officially but rumors abound.

The trembling voice caught the Grazerites attention and Torra turned a warm smile on the woman.  "Hello.  If you are looking to remember those lost on the USS Burke, then yes you are at the right spot.  My name is Torra."  Torra didn't remember the young woman's face as one of those saved from the Burke, but then Torra hadn't been present for all the transporter matrix fixes.  Mind you Discovery had also taken a few new members.   "Were you crewed on the Burke?"

She noticed that another approach, a rather lively and talkative officer.  Torra dipped her head politely in deference to the rank but said nothing at first as the woman spoke to the Commander.

Again Torra dipped her head.  "Welcome to the Discovery, Commander.  I am Danjar-Torra Addams.  I go by Ensign Danjar-Addams not to be confused with my husband." Torra nodded toward Donny.

Then sensing that this lively personality might deter the shy young woman from remaining long, Torra moved a few steps away so that the cadet wouldn't feel overwhelmed.

[Deck 6 - Lounge - USS Discovery]

"N-no..." Luby said with a smile.  "I just got here from Starbase Columbus, this is the first ship I've ever worked on.  Well I don't count shuttles to and from Academy and Earth where I've had to do a few ah... minor repairs to people.  I'm a medical cadet." she explained.

"If you have a medkit on you people expect you to be a fully qualified brain surgeon some days!  But no,..." Luby continued. "It just seemed the right thing to do and I wondered if I could assist the medical team with any symptoms of grief and report to my department head at the same time."

"Pleased to meet you Ensign.  I'm sure I'll get all the names and faces put together soon but, pardon me for pointing it out, there can't be too many Grazerites on the Discovery so I don't think I'll forget you in a hurry." Ruth said with a smile.  She turned the smile on the young cadet too and whispered.

"It's ok... we all have a first ship, if you have 5 mins sometime come down to Sciences sometime I'll regale you with a couple of stories about my first tour of duty that will make your hair raise! How I ever wore a red shirt other than in when I was in the Flight Department you may never know!" she said with a wink.  The cadet gave a sheepish grin and nodded.

When the red-haired Commander spoke to her she smiled and nodded.  "I'd like that, my 2nd subject is Sciences so I was going to ask if I could come down and complete some of my assignments for Academy down there.  So thank you."

As the Captain walked towards the group she stood straight at attention and held the position completely transfixed and hoping he didn't notice her.

[Ian Galloway]

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

"Pffft, let's say I called in a few favours.  I'd turned a blind eye to a little bit of smuggling of non-important stuff that Pickle and a few of the Ferengi traders did, them making a few bars of GPL on the side..." Ruth shrugged.  "So when I asked them to get certain stuff that still carried duty, it was all above board and so on but they didn't mind giving me the odd bottle or 3!"

She took a very deep breath and then continued.  "As for Will, I know, but that's the reason I'm here.  They didn't think I could hack it waiting for news and running a starship after the drama we've had recently, hence demotion and putting me somewhere useful.  I do love my Science, so it might take my brain off worrying so much.  I'm going to miss people on the Challenger however.  Some more than others.  Oh do you think the Captain is going to have a problem if I have my twin sisters here sometimes?  I'm 'home' for them when they're not at Academy, also, a collie dog... technically theirs but I've adopted her...."  Ruth looked sheepish and rubbed a hand around the back of her neck.

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian remained skeptical regarding the extravagant gift, but he relented and gave Ruth his almost patented lop-sided pilot's grin.

"The Great Material Continuum never stops flowin'. Regardless, thank you Ruth. I am in your debt. However, on a different topic..." He lowered his voice and spoke in a conspiratorial tone. "As ye are a boffin, ye will get on well with Captain as he's one of the best. You're goin' ta have ta ask him about the twins as that's beyond my lift capacity. Funny thing though, you won't have ta ask about the dog. Torra's almost has a bloody kennel in her quarters, so a collie will nae be a problem."

[T'Lara]

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ruth grinned, this for T'Lara was practically running over and giving her a massive hug.

"Long time no see, Lt. Commander.  It is indeed acceptable to see you too.  Do you still like dabbling in Science?  If so, I'd love to see you in the labs sometime, we can catch up on news over a cup of tea!" the Science officer offered.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

T'Lara noticed that a small crowd of crewmen old and new to her had appeared, mostly all of them seeming to have some connection with Ruth. This was understandable as she was a very friendly person and left a lasting impression with everyone she met. T'Lara on the other hand felt that though she had no negative relationships with anyone on her part, her nature prevented most of her colleagues from remembering her fondly, since emotion was such an important part of lasting memories for most humanoids. As such, she figured she should let Ruth continue to catch up with everyone.

"I am sure we will not be strangers to each other, Commander. My change in position has not changed my interests, and it would be advantageous to discuss them with a like-minded person such as yourself. I look forward to talking with you in the near future." When she'd given her answer she stepped back slightly to allow other conversations to unfold, listening to them but remaining in the background.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Nevir finally straightened his uniform for the 5th time, and was finally happy with how it looked.  He looked down at the tray in the bathroom, and picked up the hypospray, pressing it to his neck and injecting what was the last dose of the treatment for the Burke effect he was subjected to.  The downside of Bajoran physiology made him more susceptible to what they named the unusual and horrific fate that wiped out the ship they were honoring today.  Checking the white dress uniform one last time, he turned on his heels, and left his quarters, headed for the lounge.

Many of the surviving staff were still in recovery; even with the molecular DNA reconstruction there was radiation neutralization that had to be done, much like him.  At least in the case of the away team, which all ended up having a dose of the radiation, their quantum signature had never changed.  Some of the Burke crew were better than others, but some were in worse condition.  Some still didn't really understand what had even happened.

Coming up to the doors of the lounge, he was greeted by a couple of security guards in dress uniforms, who nodded as they stepped aside to let the captain through, and the doors opened, automatically signally the room to give a whistle as the commanding officer on deck entered.  With a classic Picard tug, he calmly walked passed the gathered crowd, and over to the collection of officers that included Ian and hopefully T'Lara.

"Are we ready to begin?"

A short while later she glanced over to the entrance at the sound of the whistle to see Nevir enter and make his way over to their group. He looked better than when she had last seen him, when the effects they both had experienced on the Burke caused him to exhibit symptoms more physical in nature. At the time it looked like it had been good that the two of them had got out when they did, otherwise the effects might have been even more severe. T'Lara was grateful Tekin had recovered enough to attend the ceremony, as there was still the possibility of some members of the Burke crew not fully trusting her. Prejudices had the tendency to run too deep to overcome, and she knew that having a commanding presence that didn't resemble Romulans would put those individuals at ease.

"I believe we are, Captain," she nodded, giving him a look that offered for him to say the first few words as he saw fit.

[Nira Said]

"Nira!  I'm sorry I almost didn't recognise you! Of course I remember you!  Forensics was particularly interesting so naturally I wasn't going to pass up on letting you have your own space for that!  And please, unless you have to be formal, plain old Ruth does.  I know my name is a mouthful, even if I am technically 'Waring' now.  I married, but because it looked likely for a while that we might both end up in command of a ship we decided for professional purposes to keep our original names, no hyphenation - Gods, could you imagine making my name longer?!" Ruth joked.

"I presume that you have your own space for a lab on the Discovery, but as the incoming CSO, if you need anything from Sciences... come find me!  I'll be happy to help!"

Ruth felt more at ease knowing that at least 2 of her Challenger crewmates were on the ship, Lek who she knew and trusted, and Zavrol Gohun, she would need to touch base with him and let him know that if he needed anything, other than his Department Head obviously, she was available for being a familiar face and someone to talk to until he got used to being on a new ship.

And now knowing that T'Lara and Nira were on this ship too, made things feel more like 'home'.  She was used to being posted wherever she was needed, but it always helped that there were some people that you know.

[Deck 6 - Lounge - USS Discovery]

She greeted a couple more people, including the science officer from the USS Burke, Lieutenant William Pfizer, whom she'd worked with to devise a plan to save his crew. She was very pleased he had decided to come, and had spent a good amount of time talking with him about advancements in science and how the Federation had changed. She felt their relationship had strengthened and they promised to keep in touch. As their conversation drew to a close she overheard her name coming from another group of people, where she spotted a familiar head of red hair. Bidding farewell to Pfizer, she made her way over. Inserting herself quietly with a short bow, she waited for a break in the conversation.

"Commander Sigurdsdottir, it is acceptable to see you again," she greeted amiably.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ruth grinned, this for T'Lara was practically running over and giving her a massive hug.

"Long time no see, Lt. Commander.  It is indeed acceptable to see you too.  Do you still like dabbling in Science?  If so, I'd love to see you in the labs sometime, we can catch up on news over a cup of tea!" the Science officer offered.

"Pleased to meet you Ensign.  I'm sure I'll get all the names and faces put together soon but, pardon me for pointing it out, there can't be too many Grazerites on the Discovery so I don't think I'll forget you in a hurry." Ruth said with a smile.  She turned the smile on the young cadet too and whispered.

"It's ok... we all have a first ship, if you have 5 mins sometime come down to Sciences sometime I'll regale you with a couple of stories about my first tour of duty that will make your hair raise! How I ever wore a red shirt other than in when I was in the Flight Department you may never know!" she said with a wink.  The cadet gave a sheepish grin and nodded.

"Pffft, let's say I called in a few favours.  I'd turned a blind eye to a little bit of smuggling of non-important stuff that Pickle and a few of the Ferengi traders did, them making a few bars of GPL on the side..." Ruth shrugged.  "So when I asked them to get certain stuff that still carried duty, it was all above board and so on but they didn't mind giving me the odd bottle or 3!"

She took a very deep breath and then continued.  "As for Will, I know, but that's the reason I'm here.  They didn't think I could hack it waiting for news and running a starship after the drama we've had recently, hence demotion and putting me somewhere useful.  I do love my Science, so it might take my brain off worrying so much.  I'm going to miss people on the Challenger however.  Some more than others.  Oh do you think the Captain is going to have a problem if I have my twin sisters here sometimes?  I'm 'home' for them when they're not at Academy, also, a collie dog... technically theirs but I've adopted her...."  Ruth looked sheepish and rubbed a hand around the back of her neck.

Ruth shuffled nervously tho she didn't know why.  "Captain Tekin, may I take this opportunity to say formally, Commander Sigurdsdottir, reporting for duty!  Sorry, I seem to have monopolised some of your officers! We are old shipmates some of us."

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Coming up to the doors of the lounge, he was greeted by a couple of security guards in dress uniforms, who nodded as they stepped aside to let the captain through, and the doors opened, automatically signally the room to give a whistle as the commanding officer on deck entered.  With a classic Picard tug, he calmly walked passed the gathered crowd, and over to the collection of officers that included Ian and hopefully T'Lara.

"Are we ready to begin?"

[Lieutenant JG Nira Said | Forward Lounge | Deck Six | USS Discovery NCC-78393-B]

Nira smiled at the Commander's offer. It was true that she already had her own science lab; she asked Lieutenant Cadbury for one the moment she came aboard, and when she got his permission, she set to setting up her lab. But the fact that Ruth, as she'd like to be preferred to be called off-duty, offered her science stuff, she was glad to hear. She'll need them, though she hoped she can work with T'Lara, with the Vulcan's expertise and logic.

Hearing her offer made to T'Lara as well, Nira spoke up. "Well, we'd be especially proficient in a forensics project together sometime as well. Bit of practice and a bit of an attempt to solve a mystery."

Then she heard the whistle and she saw that the Captain had entered. She knew what that meant: the funeral is ready to begin in full swing.

She remembered that she'll have to offer a eulogy of her own. She had the beginning; all she had to do was continue with the rest when the time came.

[Danjar-Torra Addams]

Ensign Danjar-Torra Addams
[USS Discovery - Deck 6 - Forward Lounge]

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]
"Pleased to meet you Ensign.  I'm sure I'll get all the names and faces put together soon but, pardon me for pointing it out, there can't be too many Grazerites on the Discovery so I don't think I'll forget you in a hurry." Ruth said with a smile.  She turned the smile on the young cadet too and whispered.

"It's ok... we all have a first ship, if you have 5 mins sometime come down to Sciences sometime I'll regale you with a couple of stories about my first tour of duty that will make your hair raise! How I ever wore a red shirt other than in when I was in the Flight Department you may never know!" she said with a wink.  The cadet gave a sheepish grin and nodded.

Torra nodded at the new Commander's comment.  "I believe I am the only one." At least on Discovery. Then smiled softly at hearing the friendly way in which she greeted the cadet.  Torra decided then that she liked this new officer.

[Deck 6 - Lounge - USS Discovery]

"N-no..." Luby said with a smile.  "I just got here from Starbase Columbus, this is the first ship I've ever worked on.  Well I don't count shuttles to and from Academy and Earth where I've had to do a few ah... minor repairs to people.  I'm a medical cadet." she explained.

"If you have a medkit on you people expect you to be a fully qualified brain surgeon some days!  But no,..." Luby continued. "It just seemed the right thing to do and I wondered if I could assist the medical team with any symptoms of grief and report to my department head at the same time."

When the red-haired Commander spoke to her she smiled and nodded.  "I'd like that, my 2nd subject is Sciences so I was going to ask if I could come down and complete some of my assignments for Academy down there.  So thank you."

As the Captain walked towards the group she stood straight at attention and held the position completely transfixed and hoping he didn't notice her.

Hearing the cadet's reply Torra couldn't agree more, and leaned in to confide in her.  "I know what you mean, I transferred over to Discovery just under a year and a half ago now from Challenger where I was in Security... I got assign medical.  And I was just a Crewman then.  Yet the Commander seemed to love to select me for his away teams.   I think he thought he was getting double duty out of me as Security AND Medical."

She smiled looking fondly over towards Galloway and caught the tail end of the conversation he was having with the other Commander.

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian remained skeptical regarding the extravagant gift, but he relented and gave Ruth his almost patented lop-sided pilot's grin.

".... you won't have ta ask about the dog. Torra's almost has a bloody kennel in her quarters, so a collie will nae be a problem."

"Ask about what dog, sir?" Torra asked politely "And it's not a kennel, it's just Happy and Donny 2.0."  She didn't include the rats that were kept in the medical lab, even though she treated them much like pets as well.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]
Coming up to the doors of the lounge, he was greeted by a couple of security guards in dress uniforms, who nodded as they stepped aside to let the captain through, and the doors opened, automatically signally the room to give a whistle as the commanding officer on deck entered.  With a classic Picard tug, he calmly walked passed the gathered crowd, and over to the collection of officers that included Ian and hopefully T'Lara.

"Are we ready to begin?"

At about this time Torra noticed the Captain's presence - the whistle made it near impossible not to -  and Torra dipped her head politely, and smiled noticing the cadet's stiff 'at attention' stance.  Torra wondered when she had become so relaxed in the presence of the senior officers?  The Grazerite quietly waited for the proceedings to begin. 

[Tekin Nevir]

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

T'Lara noticed that a small crowd of crewmen old and new to her had appeared, mostly all of them seeming to have some connection with Ruth. This was understandable as she was a very friendly person and left a lasting impression with everyone she met. T'Lara on the other hand felt that though she had no negative relationships with anyone on her part, her nature prevented most of her colleagues from remembering her fondly, since emotion was such an important part of lasting memories for most humanoids. As such, she figured she should let Ruth continue to catch up with everyone.

"I am sure we will not be strangers to each other, Commander. My change in position has not changed my interests, and it would be advantageous to discuss them with a like-minded person such as yourself. I look forward to talking with you in the near future." When she'd given her answer she stepped back slightly to allow other conversations to unfold, listening to them but remaining in the background.

A short while later she glanced over to the entrance at the sound of the whistle to see Nevir enter and make his way over to their group. He looked better than when she had last seen him, when the effects they both had experienced on the Burke caused him to exhibit symptoms more physical in nature. At the time it looked like it had been good that the two of them had got out when they did, otherwise the effects might have been even more severe. T'Lara was grateful Tekin had recovered enough to attend the ceremony, as there was still the possibility of some members of the Burke crew not fully trusting her. Prejudices had the tendency to run too deep to overcome, and she knew that having a commanding presence that didn't resemble Romulans would put those individuals at ease.

"I believe we are, Captain," she nodded, giving him a look that offered for him to say the first few words as he saw fit.

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Nodding to his new First Officer, the Captain turned to the podium set up, and took his place behind it, waiting for the gathered officers to come back to attention and ready for the service.  It was not something he liked to do, but it was something he knew he had to do.

"For dozens of planets across hundreds of lightyears, the duties of a navel Captain to act as an officiant have been a tradition, a tradition that has carried over millennia to the modern day Starfleet.  We are the voice of those who wish to be joined, for those who come into this universe, and unfortunately, for those who leave us.  It is this latter purpose that we gather here today. 

"Time... time is the ultimate companion.  It is our first friend and our first enemy. It is there from the moment we are born, until the moment our spirit leaves.  For some, time stays with us ever afterwards.  For others, time moves on, leaving us behind.  But time is always there.  And time is the reason why we gather here today to honor the sacrifice and loss of the crew of the USS Burke, NCC-1782.  The ship was launched almost a hundred years ago, and went missing 90 years ago, only to reappear to us this year.  Few of her crew's descendants could be found, and fewer still could be contacted, leaving her survivors to truly be children out of time. 

"So I ask of you, the crew of the USS Discovery, to join me in being the last connection to the Burke, and to open your hearts to those lost, having given the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of their fellow crewmen.  I ask that you remain silent while I read the name of those lost from the USS Burke, NCC-1782."

Nevir stopped for a moment.  Clearing his thoughts and taking a breath, before starting.  As he read the names, special torpedoes used to honor fallen officers were fired from the ship, as the funeral was being broadcast ship-wide.

"Commanding Officer, Captain James Franklin.  First Officer, Commander Thomas Porter.  Chief Tactical Officer, Lieutenant Junior Grade Anthony Warlow.  Chief Helm Officer Lieutenant Junior Grade Carol Lynn DuPries.  Chief Navigator Ensign Deana Park.  Chief Medical Officer Lieutenant Commander Dr. Richard Chatham.  Assistant Chief Engineering Officer...."

The Captain continued down the list of the 85 names, until he finally got to the end, leaving 85 glowing dots in the black sky to slowly fizzle out after an hour to honor the crew.  The Captain stepped away from the podium, turned on his heels, and came to attention, saluting the lights in the sky as a cue for a senior officer to call for the assembled crew to also come to attention and salute their respect.  Nevir kept the salute for a minute and a half before relaxing, and turning back around, stepping back to the podium.  In that time, the traditional empty torpedo was brought in with the flag of the Federation laid over it.  Since there was no body, it was all completely ceremonial.

"Their duty will not be forgotten.  Not to the memory of those who served with them, not by their family, and not by time.  The flag may be lowered for them now, but it is only folded in their honor." he said, signaling for the officers to gently fold the flag of the Federation, and present it to the Captain.

"This flag will be presented to the highest ranking surviving officer of the Burke, when they recover.  May this be a reminder of not the fragility of humanoid life, or the mortality that we all have, but the courage and compassion in our hearts.  Even in the face of inevitable death, the crew of the Burke heldfast, choosing to put the lives of those they could save, and those they did not know, over their own.  May each of us make the just as honorable a choice when the time comes and we are called upon to do the same.  Thank you."  he said, stepping back.  He looked to his two First officers... the one he was saying goodbye to, and the one who was just joining him, to see if either of them wanted to say anything, or end the ceremony and let the others gather again.

[Ian Galloway]

[Deck 6 - Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Nodding to his new First Officer, the Captain turned to the podium set up, and took his place behind it, waiting for the gathered officers to come back to attention and ready for the service.  It was not something he liked to do, but it was something he knew he had to do.

"For dozens of planets across hundreds of lightyears, the duties of a navel Captain to act as an officiant have been a tradition, a tradition that has carried over millennia to the modern day Starfleet.  We are the voice of those who wish to be joined, for those who come into this universe, and unfortunately, for those who leave us.  It is this latter purpose that we gather here today. 

"Time... time is the ultimate companion.  It is our first friend and our first enemy. It is there from the moment we are born, until the moment our spirit leaves.  For some, time stays with us ever afterwards.  For others, time moves on, leaving us behind.  But time is always there.  And time is the reason why we gather here today to honor the sacrifice and loss of the crew of the USS Burke, NCC-1782.  The ship was launched almost a hundred years ago, and went missing 90 years ago, only to reappear to us this year.  Few of her crew's descendants could be found, and fewer still could be contacted, leaving her survivors to truly be children out of time. 

"So I ask of you, the crew of the USS Discovery, to join me in being the last connection to the Burke, and to open your hearts to those lost, having given the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of their fellow crewmen.  I ask that you remain silent while I read the name of those lost from the USS Burke, NCC-1782."

Nevir stopped for a moment.  Clearing his thoughts and taking a breath, before starting.  As he read the names, special torpedoes used to honor fallen officers were fired from the ship, as the funeral was being broadcast ship-wide.

"Commanding Officer, Captain James Franklin.  First Officer, Commander Thomas Porter.  Chief Tactical Officer, Lieutenant Junior Grade Anthony Warlow.  Chief Helm Officer Lieutenant Junior Grade Carol Lynn DuPries.  Chief Navigator Ensign Deana Park.  Chief Medical Officer Lieutenant Commander Dr. Richard Chatham.  Assistant Chief Engineering Officer...."

The Captain continued down the list of the 85 names, until he finally got to the end, leaving 85 glowing dots in the black sky to slowly fizzle out after an hour to honor the crew.  The Captain stepped away from the podium, turned on his heels, and came to attention, saluting the lights in the sky as a cue for a senior officer to call for the assembled crew to also come to attention and salute their respect.  Nevir kept the salute for a minute and a half before relaxing, and turning back around, stepping back to the podium.  In that time, the traditional empty torpedo was brought in with the flag of the Federation laid over it.  Since there was no body, it was all completely ceremonial.

"Their duty will not be forgotten.  Not to the memory of those who served with them, not by their family, and not by time.  The flag may be lowered for them now, but it is only folded in their honor." he said, signaling for the officers to gently fold the flag of the Federation, and present it to the Captain.

"This flag will be presented to the highest ranking surviving officer of the Burke, when they recover.  May this be a reminder of not the fragility of humanoid life, or the mortality that we all have, but the courage and compassion in our hearts.  Even in the face of inevitable death, the crew of the Burke heldfast, choosing to put the lives of those they could save, and those they did not know, over their own.  May each of us make the just as honorable a choice when the time comes and we are called upon to do the same.  Thank you."  he said, stepping back.  He looked to his two First officers... the one he was saying goodbye to, and the one who was just joining him, to see if either of them wanted to say anything, or end the ceremony and let the others gather again.

[Forward Lounge - USS Discovery]

Ian found himself deeply moved by the Captain's words. He'd found the right tone and delivery to convey the loss, but captured the essence of their service and sacrifice to Starfleet.

"I can only hope I never have ta lead such a ceremony, but should it happen, that is a template for the ages." He thought as he presented arms and returned to order arms. He saw the captain's gaze in his direction, but knowing he couldn't possibly match his eloquence, he shook his head microscopically and waited for the captain to end the ceremony.