S3:E3 (MINISODE) Revelations - Part 2: Into the Rabbit Hole

[Sukal]

[Base Commander's Office - Innominatum Outpost]

Ruth smiled, returned the salute then completed a gesture that not only confirmed Sukal's observations of tiredness but was characteristic of her.  Her hand palm across eyes in a sweeping clockwise motion from vertical over the right side of her face, the thumb remaining on the cheek then moving up the edge of the eye socket acting as pivot as the hand came to horizontal over both eyes then the thumb and fingers pressed hard over and across the eyes to finally pinch the bridge of her nose, whereupon she opened her eyes ran the forefinger and thumb still pinching down the length of her nose.  She then looked up at Sukal.

...and sighed.

"Well, I don't know if Vulcans or Betazoids have a similar saying but I'm sure that you've heard the Terran phrase 'No rest for the wicked'... I'm not sure what I did to deserve this calling but I've never stopped so it must've been something particularly bad.  I know as a young Ensign I did rub up a few people the wrong way but well here I am.  I'm just waiting for the Security staff since this will primarily involve them and Ops, since Ops have fingers in every pie!"

She chuckled. "Observation not complaint, ah come in Lena, Lt. Taray, Petty Officer Wilson, any sign of Walding yet?  No matter one of you can fill him in and he is supposed to be off duty now.... I was just hoping to catch him before he was gone."  The Captain said as 3 figures in gold stepped in behind Sukal.

"Take a seat folks - if you need a drink, well you know my rules and there's the replicator!" she said gesturing.

"Basically it's 2 quick things about next month, first and most important is that I totally shelved, since first it was organised well before my tenure here and of the Challenger, and with our rather unpleasant dealings with Praetor Agrippa when he was last here I'm not too keen on delegates... but well Innominatum was designated as a Conference Centre for a massive inter-species Conference starting next month for 2 weeks.  The idea being that previously not warring, well not lately..." she corrected with a wry smile,

"... not exactly enemies but not best buddies kinda near-ish neighbours would come to some sort of mutual... I'm not sure what the word I'm wanting is as truce isn't exactly right but they'd band together, with whatever compromises - that's where the conference comes in - say for allowing Planet A to use the trade lane between Planets C and D that was previously off limits blah blah... and some of the planets opening up to Federation vessels... that being something that really needs thrashed out finding a way to let our 'neighbours' know which are true Federation vessels still run by our side and which are Leyton's... but I digress.."

She had a quick mouthful of the Ratkajino kindly brought across by Wilson and she gave him a warm smile and a nod.

"But either way it's to thrash out what is needed to implement a joining together to assist (or not) the Federation and each other against a common foe - Leyton.  To this end we're going to have around another 50 delegates and their entourages coming into Innominatum over the next few weeks.  We need the guest quarters up to scratch, we need customs working efficiently, we need a delegates dinner organised and since we've just set up to have our base of operations in the large conference room on Deck 14, we need somewhere else for us to actually host the conference so I thought maybe Holosuite 1, it's huge, and we can have it done out like some kind of amphitheatre or something. Make it look and feel nice, atmospheric controls set to adjust in their own little space.  It's a potentially volatile situation, since not all of our neighbours have got along amicably in the past.  Still I leave it in your capable hands and you know I'm here to help in whatever ways possible I value your input."

Another sip of coffee before she gave the other pieces of news.

"The other news is that Praetor Aedile, you will remember her Mr. Sukal, will be arriving next week she's already confirmed her attendance.  She sends greetings and kind regards to those of us she remembers, I've passed on to those who have transferred.  Her husband met with an... untimely..." Ruth dragged out the word with some relish, a rather sly look in her eye, clearly indicating that it hadn't been an accident. "... death... he was practicing with their weaponry and one of the guards managed to find a weak spot in his armour, unfortunately nicked an artery, so she's recently widowed.  Let me in on the fact that the big guard that jumped in to her defence when her husband tried to kill her while she was here last, is actually her lover.  Who knew?! But you'd not know in public, he's still just Captain of her Praetorian Guard so don't allude to it unless we're private!" she smiled.

"So that's one bit of good news and Aedile is a friend, she's already said her being here is more to see what she can get out of other delegates to her advantage, without compromising the friendship between Innominatum, Challenger and the like.  Her planet is about 50 clicks West of where we jumped thru with the White Dwarf, so a convenient place to put in if we need to."

Ruth sighed heavily, vaguely wondering how much of a rest any of them let alone she were actually going to get over the next few weeks, but she knew if she didn't Sukal would get Maggie to put her in stasis or at least threaten it!

"Finally, then you can all hit me with questions and whatever or go sun yourselves on a beach in the holodecks... We will have another visitor next month, one that I'm particularly glad to welcome.  And couldn't have timed it better.  You may or may not know I transferred here from the USS Athena.  Well my old crewmate Lt. Sven Aune, known as 'Stryker' will be joining us for a month to learn some more techniques and so on in Security.  He's particularly interested in forensics if I recall.  Oh and one last thing.  We'll also be getting more medical staff in, particularly one Dr. (Ensign) Oscar Chang.  So Maggie should be pleased!  He'll be on the Challenger with us, there are 3 other Ensigns and 4 medical crewmen to share around between the ship and the base... so we're more kitted out now hit me with any questions or concerns and then let's go disperse or I think if Sukal's eyebrow at me gets any more pronounced he'll be Vulcan pinching me to get me to actually take some time off!  You'll forgive me Sukal, I needed to get you aware of this to have procedures in place before we have approximately 500 more people descending on Innominatum with no or little extra security measures in place.  Lena, Lt. Taray I will forward a list of delegates and their parties to you, Sukal you don't need to ask, soon as I have the lists myself so that you can set up along with any information I can get from Sciences regarding species traditions.  Not all would agree to a full pat down for example so scanners will need to be set up.  A lot of work but I know you can do it and you'll have Sven to help too once he's here."

Ruth sat back and put both hands around her coffee cup indicating that she was done talking.

Lena spoke up "Is this 'Stryker' to be trusted?  and will he be on the Outpost?"

"I trust him with my life Lena, had to on a couple of occasions against the Liberation.  I'm not a stranger to evil dictators, I'm just glad Athena dealt with Manumit once and for all.  Just as we can deal with Leyton.  But I digress, yes he wouldn't be Chief of Security on the Athena otherwise.  Just we communicated and he didn't realise I had a base under my control as well as the ship, and he wanted to see what operations were like here and if he could use any of them on the Athena.  So yes he'll be on the Outpost, we're based here next month as I want to be able to get this Conference overseen plus the Twins will be being picked up to go to Academy." she answered.

That was something else she needed to worry about. She was thinking about getting her sister's stuff onto base and having their quarters here rather than on the ship so that if they did have to set out in the Challenger, or were attacked the girls could still get off to Academy quickly.

Sukal sat with the rest after they walked in, and after arching an eyebrow at his Captain for the clear fatigue she was still expressing.  It seemed to him this was the condition of all Commanding Officers who had too much on their plate.  He listened attentively, and noted the arrival of another Medical person coming aboard to help them soon:  Ensign Oscar Chang.  It was not strange to him as he further noted how his Captain brought up the upcoming conference.  That had been one of the things he had been thinking about on his way to see her.  With the Security personnel present she had wished to bring in on this meeting; things were outlined of what was to come.  Over fifty delegates were coming, and the use of Holodeck One was a fantastic idea.  Considering its size - the room would be perfect for setting up such in the hopes of finding aid against Leyton, and perhaps some information.  The Federation was not the only ones hurt by the former Vice-Admiral.  It was hoped these other neighbors in the area would be of some aid, but only time would tell on that particular note.  Much was needed to be done in order to insure the safety of the delegates.  Fortunately, the new security measures discussed at their previous meeting would certainly help them with that.

There was also the arrival of a former crew member of the Captain's coming over:  Lieutenant Stryker - as she called him.  Apparently she had served with him on the ATHENA, and he was now coming over to gain some knowledge on base and starship security procedures.  Naturally, they could use all the help they could get.

"Any such help from your former shipmates, Captain, will be appreciated," Sukal noted after Lena questioned the man's loyalty.  He couldn't blame her - that was, after all, her job.  With all that had taken place - it was certainly a question he would have expected her to ask.

"As for the new Praetor coming over for the conference -I see this as a good thing.  Certainly I am not at all sorry about her ex-husband's death.  His loss can only benefit his people.  I would truly like to see an alliance form between the Federation and the Reman not just for now, but something more permanent.  We could help them quite a bit, and I suspect they could as well in a few ways.  Since she is attending, I will coordinate even more with Security in order to insure her safety.  There was a good sense about her when I last met her upon my return to duty.  I suspect she will be a great wonder to her people - if she survives those who would oppose her," Sukal continued as he thought about the new Praetor's arrival.  "Among the others coming to this conference - I discovered recently the arrival of Lady Grilka from the Klingon Empire.  She apparently has a trade defense post out here connected directly to the Klingon Defense Force.  As it is an asset of her House; she could have sent an emissary, but for reasons I am not yet sure of - she is coming in person."

It was one of the reasons Sukal's mind had been on the conference coming up.  The arrival of a woman as prominent as Grilka from the Klingon Empire was not something to take lightly.  While her House was not considered among the Great Houses; she still was coming as a representative of the Klingons.  His Captain had to know of this; so she was not caught off guard.  It confused him as to why Grilka would come to such a conference.  Perhaps something more was going on than what was on the surface.

Sukal looked over at the Security personnel present for this meeting, and then directly addressed them.  "We will discuss the conference measures directly after this meeting, and then present our ideas to the Captain.  In the meantime, can I have a few moments with our amazing leader," the First Officer stated.  The last part was clearly not a request, and the detachment left the office without a word.  Left alone with his Captain; Sukal turned back to her with a slight sigh.

"Captain, My Friend, you have been pushing yourself rather hard. I admire your dedication to your duty, to the ship and crew, and to Starfleet.  I always have, but you reminded me to step in when you have been not resting.  This is that moment.  Your shift ended over an hour ago.  I know you have a lot to do - we all do.  You are also trying to divide your attention between the ship and the station you have recently acquired.  I am here to support you as well as the crew.  I know what drives you.  You want Leyton gone.  You want things back to normal.  You want to do your very best for the ship, the crew, and for those you took an oath to serve.  I understand these things very well, but you must learn to balance your abilities and tasks in your new position as our Captain.  If you do not - you will burn out, My Friend.  Even a Viking eventually gets tired.  So, how can I better take the load off of you to where you actually get some rest time in?" Sukal said with a voice filled with compassion and concern...his eyes locked on Ruth's.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

Sukal sat with the rest after they walked in, and after arching an eyebrow at his Captain for the clear fatigue she was still expressing.  It seemed to him this was the condition of all Commanding Officers who had too much on their plate.  He listened attentively, and noted the arrival of another Medical person coming aboard to help them soon:  Ensign Oscar Chang.  It was not strange to him as he further noted how his Captain brought up the upcoming conference.  That had been one of the things he had been thinking about on his way to see her.  With the Security personnel present she had wished to bring in on this meeting; things were outlined of what was to come.  Over fifty delegates were coming, and the use of Holodeck One was a fantastic idea.  Considering its size - the room would be perfect for setting up such in the hopes of finding aid against Leyton, and perhaps some information.  The Federation was not the only ones hurt by the former Vice-Admiral.  It was hoped these other neighbors in the area would be of some aid, but only time would tell on that particular note.  Much was needed to be done in order to insure the safety of the delegates.  Fortunately, the new security measures discussed at their previous meeting would certainly help them with that.

There was also the arrival of a former crew member of the Captain's coming over:  Lieutenant Stryker - as she called him.  Apparently she had served with him on the ATHENA, and he was now coming over to gain some knowledge on base and starship security procedures.  Naturally, they could use all the help they could get.

"Any such help from your former shipmates, Captain, will be appreciated," Sukal noted after Lena questioned the man's loyalty.  He couldn't blame her - that was, after all, her job.  With all that had taken place - it was certainly a question he would have expected her to ask.

"As for the new Praetor coming over for the conference -I see this as a good thing.  Certainly I am not at all sorry about her ex-husband's death.  His loss can only benefit his people.  I would truly like to see an alliance form between the Federation and the Reman not just for now, but something more permanent.  We could help them quite a bit, and I suspect they could as well in a few ways.  Since she is attending, I will coordinate even more with Security in order to insure her safety.  There was a good sense about her when I last met her upon my return to duty.  I suspect she will be a great wonder to her people - if she survives those who would oppose her," Sukal continued as he thought about the new Praetor's arrival.  "Among the others coming to this conference - I discovered recently the arrival of Lady Grilka from the Klingon Empire.  She apparently has a trade defense post out here connected directly to the Klingon Defense Force.  As it is an asset of her House; she could have sent an emissary, but for reasons I am not yet sure of - she is coming in person."

It was one of the reasons Sukal's mind had been on the conference coming up.  The arrival of a woman as prominent as Grilka from the Klingon Empire was not something to take lightly.  While her House was not considered among the Great Houses; she still was coming as a representative of the Klingons.  His Captain had to know of this; so she was not caught off guard.  It confused him as to why Grilka would come to such a conference.  Perhaps something more was going on than what was on the surface.

Sukal looked over at the Security personnel present for this meeting, and then directly addressed them.  "We will discuss the conference measures directly after this meeting, and then present our ideas to the Captain.  In the meantime, can I have a few moments with our amazing leader," the First Officer stated.  The last part was clearly not a request, and the detachment left the office without a word.  Left alone with his Captain; Sukal turned back to her with a slight sigh.

"Captain, My Friend, you have been pushing yourself rather hard. I admire your dedication to your duty, to the ship and crew, and to Starfleet.  I always have, but you reminded me to step in when you have been not resting.  This is that moment.  Your shift ended over an hour ago.  I know you have a lot to do - we all do.  You are also trying to divide your attention between the ship and the station you have recently acquired.  I am here to support you as well as the crew.  I know what drives you.  You want Leyton gone.  You want things back to normal.  You want to do your very best for the ship, the crew, and for those you took an oath to serve.  I understand these things very well, but you must learn to balance your abilities and tasks in your new position as our Captain.  If you do not - you will burn out, My Friend.  Even a Viking eventually gets tired.  So, how can I better take the load off of you to where you actually get some rest time in?" Sukal said with a voice filled with compassion and concern...his eyes locked on Ruth's.

[Base Commander's Office - Innominatum]

What Sukal had to say about her tiredness was true, he had hit the nail right on the head.

"Find Leyton." Ruth said in a weary tone.  It was not directed harshly at her friend, more resignedly.  "Until he's in custody I don't think we are getting much rest any of us, I won't sleep completely easily until I know my ship, this outpost, my crew and the people Innominatum, my sisters and this sector of the galaxy is free of him."

She shrugged.  "Short term... just keep doing what you are doing, I was intending going for a lie down at the very least then a long proper soak in a bath, or maybe the other way around. Then I think I'll help Katya and Arya move their stuff over to the base... unless you want to save me that one, get them to just pack everything stick a locator tag on it and have it transported over in one to whatever quarters are allocated for them.  That way I can use that time and actually spend quality time with them.  You do know I'm on call tho, 24/7/365, for however long my tenure as Captain is."

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - The Pickled Pakled]

[The Pickled Pakled - Innominatum Outpost]

[As Chief Hoshi Dradis]

Dradis waved over the barman and ordered the vodka and the rum and ginger for his companions and a Scotch for himself "NEAT!" he said quickly as he heard the unmistakable chink of ice.  "Both the vodka and the Scotch anyhow..and make them doubles!"

He chuckled about not calling Lahr late for food or free booze, then answered Lahr's question.

"No, least she's not ordered me to do anything that isn't within the remit of being chief of flight.  By that I mean servicing shuttles, doing navigation control calibration, flying the ship.  Something I have noticed about her as opposed to any other Captain or Instructor is well, she talks to the crew, and not just about work related stuff.  She came down to the Shuttlebay, had a coffee with me and chatted for about an hour, but also rolled up her sleeves with a hypospanner in hand and fixed.... I can't remember what it was now, it was something minor but she showed that young Esme Labinjoh patiently how to fix something, just because she was stood there feeling like a 3rd wheel."

The drinks arrived and he handed them around.  "What's more she listens to suggestions.  I know she is the Captain but I think it's her way of saying she's no better than the rest of us for all she's got 4 shiny pips in her collar, she's prepared to muck in where she's needed, but 'the buck stops here' with her.  It could also be that she's of Viking heritage. I've heard they liked to drink a lot!  But there's been no 'You must mingle'... the closest to an order of that kind is well our special task..."

Hoshi shifted his jet black eyes around the bar in case anyone was listening but 'special task' could refer to anything, and if Lahr and/or Lex was going to pose as drug dealers relatively soon then a little bit of subterfuge wasn't going to go amiss.

"... and saying that we need to work closely with each other and some cross-department work might be needed.  But you heard her, it was put across more as a suggestion than an order.  Dunno about you guys but I quite like her, tho I think she's still a little unsure of herself, but in the way that she doesn't want to fail us.  However, she was rather dropped in it with Leyton of all people.  To Captain Ruth Sigurdsdottir..." he said raising his glass, "... may she always be so affable and good luck to her, the Challenger and all who fly in her!"

Lahr sipped on his Rum and Coke while the Flight Chief tried to explain about the Captain.  He didn't know if he completely agreed with the man's assessment of the Captain and her motivations but then wasn't about to argue with the guy would had just bought him a double shot of rum.

When the Chief called out a toast to the Captain and to the Challenger and her crew, Lahr raised his glass and clinked it against the Chief's and against Lek's vodka glass as well.  "I'll toast to that!" then took another sip.

Lahr drained his glass all too quickly and waved down the waitress to order the next round.  After giving his order, the Andorian glanced about the room expectantly, frowning a bit when he didn't see who he was expecting.  Was she running late or had she figured out his ploy and opted not to come?

Just when he was leaning towards the 'opting not to come', that's when Helga showed up - not in uniform but a nice fitting leather pants and vest combo.  She looked very Klingon tonight.   He spotted her at the entrance to the bar looking over the crowd of people, looking for him.  Lahr waved a hand and motioned her over.  He could feel her glare from across the room as she also spotted Lek beside him.  Turning towards her, and so his back was towards Lek - he mouthed very clearly 'YOU OWE ME' and pointed to his still slightly drooping antenna.

Helga's shoulders slumped slightly but she didn't move from her spot.  Lahr sighed and turned back to Lek moving so he blocked the Ferengi's view of Helga.   "Hey.. I gotta use the John.. I'll be right back" he claimed... though his path when he moved away from the pair, Lek and Dradis, was not towards the restrooms but the entrance.   

[Djann Tempest]

[ USS Challenger - Primary Sciences ]

Finally arriving in the main science bay, Tempest looked to see Ensign Farrah still hunched over a console and seemingly unaware of his entrance. He cleared his throat a little as to not startle her. She still popped up like a startled cadet.

"Ensign. Sorry to sneak up on you" he said apologetically, time to use rank to push past the awkward stage; "Report".

"Yes sir. Sorry Sir" she said hurriedly. "I think Dolores and I have narrowed down what's causing the misalignment. It seems as though the Challenger's hull has picked up some increased Delta radiation that has permeated several places on the secondary hull" the Ensign said as she tapped a few keys and the holographic display on the table rendered the Challenger. Several spots along the very forward Saucer section and along the warp nacelle struts were pulsing. "The highlighted areas are the epicenters of the readings but they spread in approximately 30 meters from each deposit".

Manipulating the display and using a higher contrast to show the extent of the display, Djann simply said "Fascinating". Sitting down at the main terminal, Tempest called up Dolores.

"Hello Boss. The cursory analysis done by Ensign Farrah was efficient."

"She must be very impressed with you" Djann interjected, looking to Farrah. While looking back to the display a thought came to the science officer. The places affected by radiation reminded him of something, like a field structure simulation one might run when looking for flaws in shield design on new vessels.

"Dolores, show me shield strength variance and stresses for the Challenger as if we were at warp 6. Render side by side with the radiation analysis".

The display came alive and the ship's shield bubble extended and began flexing as the ship's ascent to warp speed was simulated. Watching the speed he spoke "Stop" at warp 5.7. "What do you see here Ensign?" Tempest asked of Farrah.

"Well sir, it seems like we have some realignment to do of the shield grid but If I had to jump to a conclusion, it looks like we were irradiated in spots where the shield thins and fluctuates at high warp."

"Excellent hypothesizing. I would agree and it seems as though this radiation is in the Delta band. Easily accounted for. So our sensor problems are gone but the accumulation of Delta radiation may prove to be the answer to another mystery. Our department has also been charged with helping make our wormhole travel more smooth. Figuring out why this particular wormhole traversal gave us a bad case of Delta may illuminate that".

"Go ahead and take the rest of the shift off. Good work Ensign" Tempest directed to the junior officer.

"Thank you sir. Let me know if I can help again" she said and exited.

As soon as she was gone, Djann stood and tapped the display on his arm to run a local scan of the lab from his on board sensors. All clear he thought. "Dolores stop log recordings and access my personal database and display project heading HUSH". As the files filtered up to the display he was not surprised but now infinitely more concerned. It seems as though Leyton or his cronies were using a method of subspace compression drive that was in development several years ago. The reason in never took off is that the warp bubble penetration into subspace deposited the normally dispersed Delta radiation and other signs of warp travel to subspace itself, where it can't degrade in the same fashion but is not detectable at range by sensors.

Well, we can maybe make it a smooth trip but at this level of radiation we may not be able to use warp travel more than a few more times in that area of space he postulated. He would have to inform the Captain of their use of this dangerous tech and find a way to locate them before they're unreachable. Once the sensor alignment was complete, the combined array of the ship and the outpost should be able to narrow it down.

"Dolores, sever connection to my private database and reinitialize logs and sensor monitoring" he said and stood.

Tempest to Captain Sigurdsdottir. May I see you and Commander Sukal in main sciences at your early possible convenience.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[CMOs Office - Sickbay - USS Challenger]

[AS CMO MAGGIE YORK]

Maggie sat cradling a coffee and then her console chimed.  Reading the message she smiled.  So they'd sent her some reinforcements.  A doctor Oscar Chang...who had just cleared customs on Innominatum.

She hit her commbadge.   Dr. York to Outpost Security, could you ask Dr. Chang to come see me as soon as he can, let him dump his belongings in his assigned quarters, and someone escort him, please, it can be a little disorientating!  York out. 

Yes Ma'am he's just here I'll have someone fetch him up now.  Security out.

[Customs - Innominatum Outpost]

"Dr. Chang, the CMO of Challenger would like you to go have a chat with her as soon as you can.  She said to 'dump your belongings in your quarters' first but I'll get someone to take you up.  Snesnal... here..." the Security Ensign called to a Crewman.  "Are you busy?"

The Crewman smiled and shook his head "Well I wasn't, looks like I will be now, how can I help?"

"Take Dr. Chang up to the Challenger, Security there will take over at the airlock."

"No probs, this way please Doctor."

They duly arrived at the airlock.

[Airlock Innominatum/Challenger]

"Welcome to the Challenger.  Can I see your assignment orders please, Doctor?, It's not that I don't trust you, but well you'll find out soon enough that our job has got a lot more involved lately. However it is more logical how we are operating." Ensign T'Kel, a young Vulcan female Security Officer said with a rather stoic look on her face.

"Once I've checked this out, I'll personally escort you to your quarters then up to see Dr. York.  Is that agreeable?"

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[ USS Challenger - Primary Sciences ]

Finally arriving in the main science bay, Tempest looked to see Ensign Farrah still hunched over a console and seemingly unaware of his entrance. He cleared his throat a little as to not startle her. She still popped up like a startled cadet.

"Ensign. Sorry to sneak up on you" he said apologetically, time to use rank to push past the awkward stage; "Report".

"Yes sir. Sorry Sir" she said hurriedly. "I think Dolores and I have narrowed down what's causing the misalignment. It seems as though the Challenger's hull has picked up some increased Delta radiation that has permeated several places on the secondary hull" the Ensign said as she tapped a few keys and the holographic display on the table rendered the Challenger. Several spots along the very forward Saucer section and along the warp nacelle struts were pulsing. "The highlighted areas are the epicenters of the readings but they spread in approximately 30 meters from each deposit".

Manipulating the display and using a higher contrast to show the extent of the display, Djann simply said "Fascinating". Sitting down at the main terminal, Tempest called up Dolores.

"Hello Boss. The cursory analysis done by Ensign Farrah was efficient."

"She must be very impressed with you" Djann interjected, looking to Farrah. While looking back to the display a thought came to the science officer. The places affected by radiation reminded him of something, like a field structure simulation one might run when looking for flaws in shield design on new vessels.

"Dolores, show me shield strength variance and stresses for the Challenger as if we were at warp 6. Render side by side with the radiation analysis".

The display came alive and the ship's shield bubble extended and began flexing as the ship's ascent to warp speed was simulated. Watching the speed he spoke "Stop" at warp 5.7. "What do you see here Ensign?" Tempest asked of Farrah.

"Well sir, it seems like we have some realignment to do of the shield grid but If I had to jump to a conclusion, it looks like we were irradiated in spots where the shield thins and fluctuates at high warp."

"Excellent hypothesizing. I would agree and it seems as though this radiation is in the Delta band. Easily accounted for. So our sensor problems are gone but the accumulation of Delta radiation may prove to be the answer to another mystery. Our department has also been charged with helping make our wormhole travel more smooth. Figuring out why this particular wormhole traversal gave us a bad case of Delta may illuminate that".

"Go ahead and take the rest of the shift off. Good work Ensign" Tempest directed to the junior officer.

"Thank you sir. Let me know if I can help again" she said and exited.

As soon as she was gone, Djann stood and tapped the display on his arm to run a local scan of the lab from his on board sensors. All clear he thought. "Dolores stop log recordings and access my personal database and display project heading HUSH". As the files filtered up to the display he was not surprised but now infinitely more concerned. It seems as though Leyton or his cronies were using a method of subspace compression drive that was in development several years ago. The reason in never took off is that the warp bubble penetration into subspace deposited the normally dispersed Delta radiation and other signs of warp travel to subspace itself, where it can't degrade in the same fashion but is not detectable at range by sensors.

Well, we can maybe make it a smooth trip but at this level of radiation we may not be able to use warp travel more than a few more times in that area of space he postulated. He would have to inform the Captain of their use of this dangerous tech and find a way to locate them before they're unreachable. Once the sensor alignment was complete, the combined array of the ship and the outpost should be able to narrow it down.

"Dolores, sever connection to my private database and reinitialize logs and sensor monitoring" he said and stood.

Tempest to Captain Sigurdsdottir. May I see you and Commander Sukal in main sciences at your early possible convenience.

[Ruth's Quarters - USS Challenger]

Ruth heard the call and sighed.  She was just about to take the girls out for pizza and sugary treats of some description.

Sigurdsdottir to Tempest, I'm currently supposed to be off duty, while I appreciate this is all 'urgent'. Is it 'must see me now' or would it wait a few hours as I'm just about to go for pizza and ice cream or whatever they decide to have, with my sisters.  I've been neglecting them.  You should be off duty too, part of this plan for the next 5 weeks is to give you some down time too, this won't work if you work through your breaks.  Set Dolores up to do something and come join me and the girls.  I'd like you to meet them anyhow.  Arya at least is going to be working with you until they go off to Academy at the end of next month. Meet me at my quarters if you'd like to come with us. Sigurdsdottir out. 

She closed the connection and opened a new.

Sigurdsdottir to Sukal - I assume you've got the same message from Tempest.  I've invited him to join myself and the girls for pizza and some fun, would you like to join us.  I'm sure he can give us the bare bones without giving anything away and besides, a promise to the girls is like telling an elephant something... they never forget so not getting out of this one!  I'm in my quarters and will leave in the next 20 mins or so if you want to join us.  Sigurdsdottir out. 

[Oscar Chang]

[CMOs Office - Sickbay - USS Challenger]

[AS CMO MAGGIE YORK]

Maggie sat cradling a coffee and then her console chimed.  Reading the message she smiled.  So they'd sent her some reinforcements.  A doctor Oscar Chang...who had just cleared customs on Innominatum.

She hit her commbadge.   Dr. York to Outpost Security, could you ask Dr. Chang to come see me as soon as he can, let him dump his belongings in his assigned quarters, and someone escort him, please, it can be a little disorientating!  York out. 

Yes Ma'am he's just here I'll have someone fetch him up now.  Security out.

[Customs - Innominatum Outpost]

"Dr. Chang, the CMO of Challenger would like you to go have a chat with her as soon as you can.  She said to 'dump your belongings in your quarters' first but I'll get someone to take you up.  Snesnal... here..." the Security Ensign called to a Crewman.  "Are you busy?"

The Crewman smiled and shook his head "Well I wasn't, looks like I will be now, how can I help?"

"Take Dr. Chang up to the Challenger, Security there will take over at the airlock."

"No probs, this way please Doctor."

They duly arrived at the airlock.

[Airlock Innominatum/Challenger]

"Welcome to the Challenger.  Can I see your assignment orders please, Doctor?, It's not that I don't trust you, but well you'll find out soon enough that our job has got a lot more involved lately. However it is more logical how we are operating." Ensign T'Kel, a young Vulcan female Security Officer said with a rather stoic look on her face.

"Once I've checked this out, I'll personally escort you to your quarters then up to see Dr. York.  Is that agreeable?"

[Customs - Innominatum Outpost]

Chang heard someone called him, and turned around to find who did. He'd notice the Security Ensign and get up to talk to him. When the Ensign notified him that the CMO of the Challenger wanted to chat with him, his face lit up feelings of excitement rushed through him. He followed crewman Snesnal to the airlock, carrying his heavy luggage that made him limp on the way.

"Thank you crewman." He would walk into the airlock.

[Airlock Innominatum/Challenger]

The Vulcan greeted him, and he did a slight bow and a handshake with both his hands.

"Thank you very much, Ensign. Oh, and my assignment orders? Lemme check..." He would put his stuff down and search all his pockets, until he found the right one. He pulled the papers out and had a look at them. "Ah, here we are." He would hand the papers to her.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Customs - Innominatum Outpost]

Chang heard someone called him, and turned around to find who did. He'd notice the Security Ensign and get up to talk to him. When the Ensign notified him that the CMO of the Challenger wanted to chat with him, his face lit up feelings of excitement rushed through him. He followed crewman Snesnal to the airlock, carrying his heavy luggage that made him limp on the way.

"Thank you crewman." He would walk into the airlock.

[Airlock Innominatum/Challenger]

The Vulcan greeted him, and he did a slight bow and a handshake with both his hands.

"Thank you very much, Ensign. Oh, and my assignment orders? Lemme check..." He would put his stuff down and search all his pockets, until he found the right one. He pulled the papers out and had a look at them. "Ah, here we are." He would hand the papers to her.

[Airlock/Security - USS Challenger]

Ensign T'Vel was rather taken aback at the two handed handshake and blinked according.  She managed to not snatch her hand back since she had had a lot of experience with humans and knew this was a custom, although normally only with one hand.

She took the credentials and smiled.  "Yes that seems to be in order, you're in D-4 on Deck 2 Crewman Thompson here will go there and then take you to check in with Dr. York on Deck 7.  It was interesting meeting you Doctor.  Crewman..."

She handed the credentials back to the doctor, offered what passed as a smile on the stone features of the Vulcan and then went back to acting like a statue.

"This way please Doctor... Chang wasn't it?  I'm Crewman Thompson, let's get to the turbolift and then we can get to your quarters." Thompson stepped into the turbolift.  "Deck 2" he ordered.

[Lek]

[The Pickled Pakled - Innominatum Outpost]

[As Chief Hoshi Dradis]

Dradis waved over the barman and ordered the vodka and the rum and ginger for his companions and a Scotch for himself "NEAT!" he said quickly as he heard the unmistakable chink of ice.  "Both the vodka and the Scotch anyhow..and make them doubles!"

He chuckled about not calling Lahr late for food or free booze, then answered Lahr's question.

"No, least she's not ordered me to do anything that isn't within the remit of being chief of flight.  By that I mean servicing shuttles, doing navigation control calibration, flying the ship.  Something I have noticed about her as opposed to any other Captain or Instructor is well, she talks to the crew, and not just about work related stuff.  She came down to the Shuttlebay, had a coffee with me and chatted for about an hour, but also rolled up her sleeves with a hypospanner in hand and fixed.... I can't remember what it was now, it was something minor but she showed that young Esme Labinjoh patiently how to fix something, just because she was stood there feeling like a 3rd wheel."

The drinks arrived and he handed them around.  "What's more she listens to suggestions.  I know she is the Captain but I think it's her way of saying she's no better than the rest of us for all she's got 4 shiny pips in her collar, she's prepared to muck in where she's needed, but 'the buck stops here' with her.  It could also be that she's of Viking heritage. I've heard they liked to drink a lot!  But there's been no 'You must mingle'... the closest to an order of that kind is well our special task..."

Hoshi shifted his jet black eyes around the bar in case anyone was listening but 'special task' could refer to anything, and if Lahr and/or Lex was going to pose as drug dealers relatively soon then a little bit of subterfuge wasn't going to go amiss.

"... and saying that we need to work closely with each other and some cross-department work might be needed.  But you heard her, it was put across more as a suggestion than an order.  Dunno about you guys but I quite like her, tho I think she's still a little unsure of herself, but in the way that she doesn't want to fail us.  However, she was rather dropped in it with Leyton of all people.  To Captain Ruth Sigurdsdottir..." he said raising his glass, "... may she always be so affable and good luck to her, the Challenger and all who fly in her!"

[The Pickled Pakled - Innominatum Outpost]

Dradis' toast was an automatic bottom's up sort of thing and Lek didn't hesitate. As he tossed back the vodka, he felt the familiar burn and smiled as peaty notes of the alcohol danced on his tongue.

"За здоровье!"

Lek replied as his Russian roommate had taught him at the Academy.

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - The Pickled Pakled]

Lahr sipped on his Rum and Coke while the Flight Chief tried to explain about the Captain.  He didn't know if he completely agreed with the man's assessment of the Captain and her motivations but then wasn't about to argue with the guy would had just bought him a double shot of rum.

When the Chief called out a toast to the Captain and to the Challenger and her crew, Lahr raised his glass and clinked it against the Chief's and against Lek's vodka glass as well.  "I'll toast to that!" then took another sip.

Lahr drained his glass all too quickly and waved down the waitress to order the next round.  After giving his order, the Andorian glanced about the room expectantly, frowning a bit when he didn't see who he was expecting.  Was she running late or had she figured out his ploy and opted not to come?

Just when he was leaning towards the 'opting not to come', that's when Helga showed up - not in uniform but a nice fitting leather pants and vest combo.  She looked very Klingon tonight.   He spotted her at the entrance to the bar looking over the crowd of people, looking for him.  Lahr waved a hand and motioned her over.  He could feel her glare from across the room as she also spotted Lek beside him.  Turning towards her, and so his back was towards Lek - he mouthed very clearly 'YOU OWE ME' and pointed to his still slightly drooping antenna.

Helga's shoulders slumped slightly but she didn't move from her spot.  Lahr sighed and turned back to Lek moving so he blocked the Ferengi's view of Helga.   "Hey.. I gotta use the John.. I'll be right back" he claimed... though his path when he moved away from the pair, Lek and Dradis, was not towards the restrooms but the entrance.

Lek saw Helga and wasn't sure if he should run to her and bite her lip or run in terror. She always provoked that sort of duality of response in him. Burning passion mixed with abject terror. He was certain a ship's counselor could explain the nature of how he felt, but a psychologist was not who he wanted on a couch at that moment.

As Lahr had mentioned a couple times, based on her two warrior ancestries, being timid would not impress or win her. No, only bold action would do so. Lek stood, offered a quick prayer to the Blessed Exchequer and crossed the room to where Helga was standing. He snarled at her in a low growl and with surprising speed, took her in her arms and kissed her. She was stunned enough not to have killed him on the spot, so as he savored her lips he thought.

"This may be the very last very stupid decision I ever make."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[The Pickled Pakled - Innominatum Outpost]

Dradis' toast was an automatic bottom's up sort of thing and Lek didn't hesitate. As he tossed back the vodka, he felt the familiar burn and smiled as peaty notes of the alcohol danced on his tongue.

"За здоровье!"

Lek replied as his Russian roommate had taught him at the Academy.

Lek saw Helga and wasn't sure if he should run to her and bite her lip or run in terror. She always provoked that sort of duality of response in him. Burning passion mixed with abject terror. He was certain a ship's counselor could explain the nature of how he felt, but a psychologist was not who he wanted on a couch at that moment.

As Lahr had mentioned a couple times, based on her two warrior ancestries, being timid would not impress or win her. No, only bold action would do so. Lek stood, offered a quick prayer to the Blessed Exchequer and crossed the room to where Helga was standing. He snarled at her in a low growl and with surprising speed, took her in her arms and kissed her. She was stunned enough not to have killed him on the spot, so as he savored her lips he thought.

"This may be the very last very stupid decision I ever make."

[The Pickled Pakled]

[AS Hoshi Dradis]

"Where's Lahr got to? Not like him to pass up on free drinks, and it doesn't take that long to go to the ... he's gone in completely the wrong direction for the head!"

When Lex spoke Russian, Dradis raised an eyebrow.  "Yeah, for health, I'm glad the Universal Translator knows what you said cuz I didn't.  I got the implied meaning obviously."

The Chief Engineer then stood and Hoshi saw where his gaze lingered.... Helga.

"Hmmm 'Good Health' in whatever language might be appropriate, Good Luck my friend!"  the Chief of Flight signalled for another round and waited for anyone else to show up for drinks.

[Sukal]

USS CHALLENGER

XO's Office

Sitting before him were the two heads of Security for things to get done for the upcoming conference talks.  In this case, Lena and Taray.  Both women had their PADDs out taking notes as he went over the new procedures he wanted implemented while also listening to them about their own suggestions.  Thus far, they had decided indeed to hold the conference inside the Main Holodeck on the station as it was more than large enough to accommodate the amount of delegates they would be seeing soon.  Environmental conditions for each of the arriving species was already factored in, and any special considerations - which were fortunately few.

"I want to make sure nothing goes wrong at this conference, Ladies.  This is a rather historic first for this entire area.  Most of these have never even sat down at the same table as the rest, and half of them have problems with the rest on one level or another.  I want us to pay especial attention to this Scorpion Triad that is coming.  There have been rumors flying around on the station of how they deal with people.  They almost sound as bad as the Orion Syndicate, but with less of a reputation.  With the way Leyton has been surprising us of late; I want you two to investigate any unusual ways we can get hurt:  rare explosive compounds, strange materials which can be used for weapons that might be able to bypass normal security sweeps, and so forth.  I want transport inhibitors present to stop any unauthorized personnel from beaming in or out of the conference," Sukal was telling them when the comm buzzed twice.  The first came from the new Chief of Science:  Lieutenant Tempest, and the second from his Captain.  He swore that woman never rested, but she was right - the moment she became Captain she was basically on call 24/7.

Tempest to Captain Sigurdsdottir. May I see you and Commander Sukal in main sciences at your early possible convenience.

=/\=Sigurdsdottir to Sukal - I assume you've got the same message from Tempest.  I've invited him to join myself and the girls for pizza and some fun, would you like to join us.  I'm sure he can give us the bare bones without giving anything away and besides, a promise to the girls is like telling an elephant something... they never forget so not getting out of this one!  I'm in my quarters and will leave in the next 20 mins or so if you want to join us.  Sigurdsdottir out. 

He nodded to the two women showing them the meeting was done for the moment before tapping his comm badge to reply.

"I will meet the two of you in your quarters, Captain," Sukal answered, and then locked out his computer before leaving the office.

Just as he did so, he nearly bumped into a woman with reddish-brown long wavy hair, and piercing deep black eyes who stood nearly as tall as he did.

"Excuse me, Sir, I was just on my way to see you.  I am Lieutenant Commander D'leha Amoreen on special assignment attached to the outpost until the USS CHEKOV can be repaired.  Here are my orders," the woman introduced herself while handing over her PADD to the XO.

From:  Starfleet Operations
To:  Captain Ruth Sigurdsdottir and Lieutenant Commander Sukal

Subject:  Special Assignment:  Lieutenant Commander D'leha Amoreen

"This officer has been assigned to your outpost to help with the upcoming conference until her ship is repaired after a savage ambush by the rebel forces under Leyton.  Despite her rank, she is not to be in command of your security forces, but is there as a specialist against possible acts of terrorism, sabotage, assassination, and espionage.  She should be able to return to the USS CHEKOV in three months.  If this changes, updated orders will be filed accordingly."

Vice-Admiral Alexander Sheridan
Starfleet Operations

=/\=Attachment:  Starfleet Personnel File:  Amoreen, D'leha=/\=

Sukal was taken back by this twist in things, but the help was certainly not unwelcome - if help it was.  Leyton had hurt them too much via treachery for Sukal to accept the orders at face value, and thus eyed the new officer suspiciously at first.

"The Admiral said you were a suspicious one, Sir.  I completely understand that you need to verify these orders," D'leha said with a slight smile of comprehension.

"Admiral Sheridan is quite correct, Ms. Amoreen.  Come, walk with me for a bit.  I have to speak with the Captain about some things, and she will no doubt want to speak with you as well," Sukal replied with a nod as he made his way to the turbolift.  D'leha followed smoothly, and the two began their trip to the Captain's quarters.  As they waited on the lift to arrive at their destination; Sukal went over the woman's file.  It was, to be sure, quite impressive.  "I see you have been cross-trained in Operations as well as Security, and have extra training in counter-espionage, investigating extortion, murder, motives, and are considered rather excellent in both melee and ranged combat."  He had not admit her file made her perfect for the upcoming conference. "Have you been briefed yet on the conference forthcoming?"

"Not as yet, Sir.  The Admiral assured me either yourself or the Captain would brief me on the situation, and that I would learn all I needed to in order to be of service," the new officer answered professionally with her hands clasped behind her back.

The lift opened, and Sukal led her to the Captain's quarters - buzzing once they reached her door.  Only after she had told him to come in did Sukal enter with D'leha behind him.

"I have brought a guest, Captain.  This is Lieutenant Commander D'leha Amoreen.  Vice-Admiral Sheridan sent her to us for special assignment to help with the conference after the CHEKOV was ambushed by the rebels under Leyton.  Ms. Amoreen, this is Captain Ruth Sigurdsdottir," Sukal introduced them.

"AHH!  A woman with Viking heritage!!  Impressive!  It is an honor to serve you, Captain Sigurdsdottir," the woman replied rather excitedly, and the light of battle and admiration was in her black eyes.  "I'm afraid my own heritage is rather soft by comparison, Captain, for I am a Betazoid."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

USS CHALLENGER

The lift opened, and Sukal led her to the Captain's quarters - buzzing once they reached her door.  Only after she had told him to come in did Sukal enter with D'leha behind him.

"I have brought a guest, Captain.  This is Lieutenant Commander D'leha Amoreen.  Vice-Admiral Sheridan sent her to us for special assignment to help with the conference after the CHEKOV was ambushed by the rebels under Leyton.  Ms. Amoreen, this is Captain Ruth Sigurdsdottir," Sukal introduced them.

"AHH!  A woman with Viking heritage!!  Impressive!  It is an honor to serve you, Captain Sigurdsdottir," the woman replied rather excitedly, and the light of battle and admiration was in her black eyes.  "I'm afraid my own heritage is rather soft by comparison, Captain, for I am a Betazoid."

[Captain's Quarters - USS Challenger]

"Welcome, Ms. Amoreen, and don't let Sukal here you say that about Betazoids!  For all he takes the Vulcan side of his heritage in features, he's half Betazoid himself and personally I'd rather have him at my side than a bunch of Klingons, no offence meant to my good friend Ragnar Hughes either!" Ruth chuckled.

"Speaking of Vikings you have 3 here, myself, and my younger sisters Arya, and Katya... easy to tell them apart, Katya looks like the 21st Century Heavy Metal groupie!" the Captain said grinning at her twin younger sisters.  Indeed Katya was wearing black head to toe, a Rammstein vintage tshirt, ripped black jeans, studded spiked leather collar and too much eye liner, whereas Arya had on a pastel green floaty chiffon dress and sandals.

"You wouldn't think they're twins... Anyhow what brings you to Innominatum Lt. Commander? Orders?  Innominatum is not somewhere one normally requests to come to, well not unless your name is Sven Aune, but he's an old crewmate and I'm pulling a few strings to let him train in some techniques here, I can't say that an extra pair of hands in Security during the conference won't be welcome.  I'm afraid I'm both waiting on Lt. Tempest and I've promised the girls pizza and treats, they've been here since June and not had a full day with me yet, poor things.  Have you been assigned quarters yet?" she asked.

"Girls, get our guest a drink while we wait for Mr. Tempest.  I promise we'll go out soon.  You know how important this is and I'll have to talk to Mr. Tempest!  Sukal, how did it go with our Security Chiefs?"

"What would you like Uncle Sukal, Ms. Amoreen?" Arya asked.  She was barely 17 but already a perfect hostess.

"I need to arrange some kind of party too Sukal... the girls birthday came and went while we were out hunting Leyton, they never said a word." Ruth said with a slightly ashamed look.

"Well you were busy and we figured we could guilt trip you into giving us a bigger party for leaving for Academy!" Katya said in a laconic tone totally straight faced.  Then broke into a fit of giggles at Ruth's aghast look.  "Oh you know I'm kidding, Sis!"

"Ef þú værir ekki 17 ára myndirðu liggja þvert yfir fangið á mér og láta rassinn á þér skjóta og senda í rúmið án kvöldmáltíðar!"¹  Ruth exclaimed.  She wasn't sure if the new Lt. Commander's universal translator would translate it, but she'd had Icelandic removed from the list of languages that her crew could pick up.  She knew they'd know she was swearing when she did but she preferred them not to know exactly what she was saying.

Katya grinned.

"Við munum segja Will hvaða vitru og illu hugar konu sem hann ætlar að giftast!  Pynta og svelta fátæk börn!"²

"You're enough to put a woman off having kids! You'll give me grey hairs before I'm 40.  Lt. Commander, I warn you, these two are young harridans! For all the sweetness of Arya.  I should know, I used to be just like them!  Where IS Tempest?!" Ruth exclaimed getting a little bored of waiting.

¹TRANS: If you weren't 17, you'd be across my lap and having your butt spanked and sent to bed without supper!

² TRANS: We'll tell Will what a viscious and evil minded woman he's going to marry! Torturing and starving poor children!

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - The Pickled Pakled]

[The Pickled Pakled - Innominatum Outpost]

Dradis' toast was an automatic bottom's up sort of thing and Lek didn't hesitate. As he tossed back the vodka, he felt the familiar burn and smiled as peaty notes of the alcohol danced on his tongue.

"За здоровье!"

Lek replied as his Russian roommate had taught him at the Academy.

Lek saw Helga and wasn't sure if he should run to her and bite her lip or run in terror. She always provoked that sort of duality of response in him. Burning passion mixed with abject terror. He was certain a ship's counselor could explain the nature of how he felt, but a psychologist was not who he wanted on a couch at that moment.

As Lahr had mentioned a couple times, based on her two warrior ancestries, being timid would not impress or win her. No, only bold action would do so. Lek stood, offered a quick prayer to the Blessed Exchequer and crossed the room to where Helga was standing. He snarled at her in a low growl and with surprising speed, took her in his arms and kissed her. She was stunned enough not to have killed him on the spot, so as he savored her lips he thought.

"This may be the very last very stupid decision I ever make."

Lahr had intended to bring the two together slowly through trickery. He'd left Lek and Dradis to go speak to Helga... planning to play up the hurt antenna a bit to ensure she didn't bolt the minute Lek's name was mentioned.  That had been the plan.  However, as usual reality never went as planned.  Delayed because he had paused to grab up a drink with which to loosen Helga up with so, Lahr hadn't actually met up with her yet, when suddenly Lek was there - taking Helga in his arms and kissing her!

Lahr's mouth dropped open in stunned surprise.  No way!  The urge to cheer the Ferengi engineer on was nearly overwhelming but that might piss off Helga...and Lahr didn't want to risk that.  Lahr silently began counting how long the kiss last.

One Mississippi... Two Mississippi... Three Mississippi...  Lahr smirked.  It seemed that Helga wasn't of a mind to take offense to the unexpected kiss and in fact he noted that the Security crewman seemed to be rather enjoying it and was, by this time, kissing Lek back. But her hands gripped onto the smaller man's shoulders as if struggling to decide whether to pull him closer or push him away.

His internal count was at fifteen Mississippi's when she finally made a decision and let one of her hands release her grip to stroke it along the smoothness of Lek's bald head, her fingertips occasionally brushing against his lobes before returning to massage the Ferengi's cranium.

Lahr nodded in satisfaction. Now if only he could figure out what had spooked the Klingon in the first place.

[Lek]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - The Pickled Pakled]

Lahr had intended to bring the two together slowly through trickery. He'd left Lek and Dradis to go speak to Helga... planning to play up the hurt antenna a bit to ensure she didn't bolt the minute Lek's name was mentioned.  That had been the plan.  However, as usual reality never went as planned.  Delayed because he had paused to grab up a drink with which to loosen Helga up with so, Lahr hadn't actually met up with her yet, when suddenly Lek was there - taking Helga in his arms and kissing her!

Lahr's mouth dropped open in stunned surprise.  No way!  The urge to cheer the Ferengi engineer on was nearly overwhelming but that might piss off Helga...and Lahr didn't want to risk that.  Lahr silently began counting how long the kiss last.

One Mississippi... Two Mississippi... Three Mississippi...  Lahr smirked.  It seemed that Helga wasn't of a mind to take offense to the unexpected kiss and in fact he noted that the Security crewman seemed to be rather enjoying it and was, by this time, kissing Lek back. But her hands gripped onto the smaller man's shoulders as if struggling to decide whether to pull him closer or push him away.

His internal count was at fifteen Mississippi's when she finally made a decision and let one of her hands release her grip to stroke it along the smoothness of Lek's bald head, her fingertips occasionally brushing against his lobes before returning to massage the Ferengi's cranium.

Lahr nodded in satisfaction. Now if only he could figure out what had spooked the Klingon in the first place.

[The Pickled Pakled - Innominatum Outpost]

When he first took Helga in his arms, the most Ferengi part of him began to calculate how long before she did something to him that he would regret. When she leaned into him and returned the kiss, the only coherent thought he could manage was.

"I'm not dead!"

[Sukal]

[Captain's Quarters - USS Challenger]

"Welcome, Ms. Amoreen, and don't let Sukal here you say that about Betazoids!  For all he takes the Vulcan side of his heritage in features, he's half Betazoid himself and personally I'd rather have him at my side than a bunch of Klingons, no offence meant to my good friend Ragnar Hughes either!" Ruth chuckled.

"Speaking of Vikings you have 3 here, myself, and my younger sisters Arya, and Katya... easy to tell them apart, Katya looks like the 21st Century Heavy Metal groupie!" the Captain said grinning at her twin younger sisters.  Indeed Katya was wearing black head to toe, a Rammstein vintage tshirt, ripped black jeans, studded spiked leather collar and too much eye liner, whereas Arya had on a pastel green floaty chiffon dress and sandals.

"You wouldn't think they're twins... Anyhow what brings you to Innominatum Lt. Commander? Orders?  Innominatum is not somewhere one normally requests to come to, well not unless your name is Sven Aune, but he's an old crewmate and I'm pulling a few strings to let him train in some techniques here, I can't say that an extra pair of hands in Security during the conference won't be welcome.  I'm afraid I'm both waiting on Lt. Tempest and I've promised the girls pizza and treats, they've been here since June and not had a full day with me yet, poor things.  Have you been assigned quarters yet?" she asked.

"Girls, get our guest a drink while we wait for Mr. Tempest.  I promise we'll go out soon.  You know how important this is and I'll have to talk to Mr. Tempest!  Sukal, how did it go with our Security Chiefs?"

"What would you like Uncle Sukal, Ms. Amoreen?" Arya asked.  She was barely 17 but already a perfect hostess.

"I need to arrange some kind of party too Sukal... the girls birthday came and went while we were out hunting Leyton, they never said a word." Ruth said with a slightly ashamed look.

"Well you were busy and we figured we could guilt trip you into giving us a bigger party for leaving for Academy!" Katya said in a laconic tone totally straight faced.  Then broke into a fit of giggles at Ruth's aghast look.  "Oh you know I'm kidding, Sis!"

"Ef þú værir ekki 17 ára myndirðu liggja þvert yfir fangið á mér og láta rassinn á þér skjóta og senda í rúmið án kvöldmáltíðar!"1  Ruth exclaimed.  She wasn't sure if the new Lt. Commander's universal translator would translate it, but she'd had Icelandic removed from the list of languages that her crew could pick up.  She knew they'd know she was swearing when she did but she preferred them not to know exactly what she was saying.

Katya grinned.

"Við munum segja Will hvaða vitru og illu hugar konu sem hann ætlar að giftast!  Pynta og svelta fátæk börn!"2

"You're enough to put a woman off having kids! You'll give me grey hairs before I'm 40.  Lt. Commander, I warn you, these two are young harridans! For all the sweetness of Arya.  I should know, I used to be just like them!  Where IS Tempest?!" Ruth exclaimed getting a little bored of waiting.

1TRANS: If you weren't 17, you'd be across my lap and having your butt spanked and sent to bed without supper!

2 TRANS: We'll tell Will what a viscious and evil minded woman he's going to marry! Torturing and starving poor children!

Sukal offered his Captain a warm smile after her compliment of wanting him at her side even over Klingon warriors in battle.  Despite his peaceful nature - battle was something which came to him almost naturally.  It was, perhaps to many, a contradiction.  He loved peace, desired peace, but if he had to fight - he would do so without reservation or hesitation.

"A pleasure to meet you," D'leha nodded firmly and politely to Ruth's two sisters as the Captain continued.  "As for my orders, Captain, I am here by special assignment from Vice-Admiral Alexander Sheridan of Starfleet Operations.  My ship where I was Second Officer fell under attack from Leyton's rebels.  The CHEKOV will be in dock for about three months, and he thought I could be of some use here considering my former Security background in dealing with counter-espionage and so forth."  She then turned back to Sukal after noting the Captain's remark about him being half-Betazoid.  "What an interesting combination.  I would never have thought two people so different could have come together in such a union," she admitted with an almost Vulcan-classic raising of the right eyebrow.

"It was an interesting union," Sukal replied without further explanation.

When Arya asked her what she wanted to drink; the new officer merely shook her head politely to decline.  "While I appreciate the offer; I have no desire for refreshment at this time.  Perhaps later on," D'leha answered with a slight smile as she took in Ruth's quarters with interest.  She was also quite aware of the First Officer watching her keenly.

"Yes, a party for your sisters should most certainly be in order," Sukal agreed with a smile for the twins; though his eyes were watching how D'leha was examining the room.

While the three sisters conversed in what Sukal could only believe was their native ancient language; he noted how the new arrival walked with a deadly grace.  This was someone who was lethal in personal combat.  It showed in the way she moved, stood, and examined the room.  Betazoid or not - the woman was a warrior clear and through.  Such was indeed a contradiction considering the Betazoid culture for peace.

"Well, I would not want to keep you and your family, Captain.  I still have to get my quarters settled, and take the time to become familiar with the station's layout.  I hope the three of you will live long lives filled with honor and glory," D'leha said to them before she started to turn and leave.  "I look forward to working with you, Commander," she added to Sukal.  "Please inform me when you have cleared my orders so that I might be of some use around here." Saying nothing more; D'leha Amoreen left the Captain's quarters without a backward glance.

Every stride she took - Sukal noted, and a slight frown creased his face when the doors closed.  "She could be a great asset considering the diverse personalities coming to this conference."  He turned to gaze at his Captain and the two girls waiting nearby:  Katya and Arya.  "I trust you both are ready for Starfleet Academy.  It has been a while since I had the chance to interact with you two beyond a few hellos and goodbyes.  Tell me - what did you two think of Lieutenant Commander Amoreen?"  One moment he had been talking to them as if it were the most natural of conversations, but his mind was on the new arrival.  The question slipped out before he could even think of recovering it.  "Consider it a lesson in observation," he added for effect.