S3:E9 All Bad Things Come To An End

[Kali Reyes]

The RomulanReman hybrid Chief of Engineering stepped from Ryder's side and up to where Kali was.  "Ah Ms. Reyes... you keep your finger on the pulse of development!  Covariant is one type of shielding we have.  I'm actually surprised that's the one you picked out, most people who know anything about Romulan tech would lead off with our cloaking!" Metrikix chuckled.

"But sure..." she signalled to an underling who brought up the schematics.  "That is one thing I can show you, I'm not sure if your Mr. Lek could get it working on the Challenger before our upcoming battle but we're willing to share that technology with you obviously, since we're here too I'm happy for a team of my engineers who are used to working with it to come help kit you out if you wished, Mr. Lek?  I'm not sure if the Federation would like it if we gave you cloaking technology.  They might approve it for one battle to give you the edge... maybe something to consider for this meeting we're having tomorrow?!"

[Tal'Bath - Engineering]

"I figured since every Starfleet engineer and their grandmother would call dibs on the cloak tech, I could do a comparison study on oscillation tech an anonymous Breen scientist wrote in Memory Alpha Scientia last month," Kali replied. "He says Reman prototypes are consistently better than the Romulan variant at regenerating shields once the cloaking module comes down in a confrontation. It's down to the numbers - very boring. But if I can prove him wrong maybe he'll stop shafting me invites to the Academia Consortium every quarter."

Well partially she couldn't care less about the invites. She just didn't like the way he called Ryder 'basic' over his choice of garlic bread back on Memory Alpha.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Tal'Bath - Engineering]

"I figured since every Starfleet engineer and their grandmother would call dibs on the cloak tech, I could do a comparison study on oscillation tech an anonymous Breen scientist wrote in Memory Alpha Scientia last month," Kali replied. "He says Reman prototypes are consistently better than the Romulan variant at regenerating shields once the cloaking module comes down in a confrontation. It's down to the numbers - very boring. But if I can prove him wrong maybe he'll stop shafting me invites to the Academia Consortium every quarter."

Well partially she couldn't care less about the invites. She just didn't like the way he called Ryder 'basic' over his choice of garlic bread back on Memory Alpha.

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

[As NPC Lt. Metrikix - Chief Engineer, Tal-Bath]

Metrikix chuckled.  "Oh I see, this one is personal... have at it!"  she nodded at a junior engineer in her team to come across.

"If you give my assistant access to your PADD for a few seconds he'll upload the data for you and you have it at your disposal to outfox Mr. Smart-ass, or is that Smarmy?! It's ok, us girls gotta stick together and I've had my fair share of guys trying to make out they're better than us."

She stole a glance over at Lek.  "No offence meant Chief, I don't mean that men are no good but there are some of your gender make out that women have no place in Engineering, when it boils down to it we're just as good if we've had the training! Simple as!"

[Lek]

[Transporter Room > Mess Hall, Tal'Bath]

[As Lt. Metrikix and Captain Hecate]

"No need Mr. Lek... I was rather bored cooped up in my office so I came to see that everything was in order for our guests and come to greet you myself."  Hecate said stepping forward.  "I'm not actually certain what a correct greeting is for a Ferengi so I'm merely going to offer my hand in friendship.  I trust Lt. Metrikix has taken care of you thus far and will continue to do so.  Welcome all of you, I'm so pleased to have you on board, please... partake of this buffet.  If you have any specific dietary requirements not met here please speak to my Mess Chief and he will work with you to make your stay here more pleasant.  All I ask, because I'm sure Chief Metrikix would hate me otherwise, is that no food or drink is taken to the Engineering Department.  Are there any questions for me?" Hecate asked beaming at the Challenger contingent.

"Hey,.." Metrikix said winding around to where Kali was 'hiding' behind Ryder.  "... you look a little... well actually I'm not entirely certain what your look was, I'd go for loathing mixed with confusion, hurt and potentially 'I wanna go home', maybe a little scared?  I promise you we aren't going to hurt you or throw you all in the airlock or anything.  It's nice to see another female engineer.  Ever seen the workings of a Romulan ship before?!" she asked deciding to engage the young female in conversation.

"Also Counsellor, Doctor... what even do I call you?  Welcome to the Tal'Bath.  This was supposed to be a trip for Engineering but you're welcome nonetheless.  Perhaps you feel that the trip will be that wondrous that you'll have to counsel everyone that what they've just seen is actually real?!"

[Mess Hall > Engineering, Tal'Bath]

[As Hecate and Lt. Metrikix]

Hecate smiled benevolently.  "Well then Lek, you may call me Hecate.  It's what I'm used to these days. It's not my actual name, your Captain knows that, though she and Mr. Sukal probably have forgotten that! Tell me what is considered a treat for Ferengi?!"

She allowed the Challenger crew to partake of what they wanted and mingle with her own crew for about 45 mins then nodded to Metrikix.

Lt. Metrikix caught Hecate's nod and stepped forward.  "If you'd like to follow me, gentlemen, Ms. Reyes... we'll pop down to the Engineering Department.  I ask that you don't touch anything but feel free to ask as many questions as you want.  If you wish to see how something works, within reason unless it involves moving the ship, we can do that for you, or explain.  We have several holo diagrams too which will show how things operate for those things we literally cannot do unless we are moving, under attack and so on. Please follow."

[Engineering Department - Tal-Bath]

"So, Lt. Lek... what would you like to play with first!?!" an amused Mekrikix said, now totally at home in 'her' domain.

[Mess Hall --> Engineering Tal'Bath]

Lek wasn't certain what to think of Hecate. Her reputation for ruthlessness was well known, but in person, she was charming. Lek shrugged as he knew the true answer would not be pleasant to a non-Ferengi.

"Ma'am, most Ferengi food is vermiform in nature and unpalatable to other species, so I won't speak of it here. I do look forward the chance to see your ship's technology."

[Tal'Bath - Engineering]

Kali had said nothing on the transporter pad, her gaze more conflicted than loathing as the Romulan woman seemed to gain from her. For the first time, she let others speak for her as her frazzled nerves was a spring away from high-tailing it back to a ship that wasn't a bird of prey. Because every step she took led her deeper into the ship and every thought she had was whether they used the same photon torpedoes that hit Caleb Reyes' office head on while she sipped Mai Tais on Risa, ignorant to it all.

And perhaps that was what made her subconsciously turn from the group, ignoring Ryder's warning glance. While Lek was preoccupied with the Romulan engineer, Kali took the distraction to map out the room itself. They probably weren't foolish enough to provide holograms of their weapons systems, but Kali was raised to believe that all information was important commodity to the galaxy.

"I'd like to see whatever holographic schematics you're allowed to show off," she announced, strangely docile and polite. "Rumor has it you've implemented a new modified covariant shield array. I bet phasers practically bounce off of it now."

[Tal'Bath Mess Hall > Engineering]

[As Lt. Metrikix - Chief Engineer of Tal'Bath]

"No offence taken, we are still mistrusted by most people, let alone those who might have a past with us.  I hope that once she's in Engineering she might relax a little being in more of her environment!" Metrikix said to Ryder with a small smile.

"I'm glad actually that I physically, outwardly at least, resemble my mother rather than my father.  Romulans are far more aesthetically pleasing than Remans! But don't let my colleagues hear me say that, I'm used to them but not everyone is used to their visage, or the fact that some of them are working on the 'right' side for peace!  You are welcome, if you're part of the Challenger crew and you're making your friend feel more relaxed it's all good.  I won't tell anyone she's not feeling too great unless it gets to a point where she needs medical attention that isn't just your gentle presence." the Engineering Chief said with a smile.

The RomulanReman hybrid Chief of Engineering stepped from Ryder's side and up to where Kali was.  "Ah Ms. Reyes... you keep your finger on the pulse of development!  Covariant is one type of shielding we have.  I'm actually surprised that's the one you picked out, most people who know anything about Romulan tech would lead off with our cloaking!" Metrikix chuckled.

"But sure..." she signalled to an underling who brought up the schematics.  "That is one thing I can show you, I'm not sure if your Mr. Lek could get it working on the Challenger before our upcoming battle but we're willing to share that technology with you obviously, since we're here too I'm happy for a team of my engineers who are used to working with it to come help kit you out if you wished, Mr. Lek?  I'm not sure if the Federation would like it if we gave you cloaking technology.  They might approve it for one battle to give you the edge... maybe something to consider for this meeting we're having tomorrow?!"

[Tal'Bath - Engineering]

"I figured since every Starfleet engineer and their grandmother would call dibs on the cloak tech, I could do a comparison study on oscillation tech an anonymous Breen scientist wrote in Memory Alpha Scientia last month," Kali replied. "He says Reman prototypes are consistently better than the Romulan variant at regenerating shields once the cloaking module comes down in a confrontation. It's down to the numbers - very boring. But if I can prove him wrong maybe he'll stop shafting me invites to the Academia Consortium every quarter."

Well partially she couldn't care less about the invites. She just didn't like the way he called Ryder 'basic' over his choice of garlic bread back on Memory Alpha.

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

[As NPC Lt. Metrikix - Chief Engineer, Tal-Bath]

Metrikix chuckled.  "Oh I see, this one is personal... have at it!"  she nodded at a junior engineer in her team to come across.

"If you give my assistant access to your PADD for a few seconds he'll upload the data for you and you have it at your disposal to outfox Mr. Smart-ass, or is that Smarmy?! It's ok, us girls gotta stick together and I've had my fair share of guys trying to make out they're better than us."

She stole a glance over at Lek.  "No offence meant Chief, I don't mean that men are no good but there are some of your gender make out that women have no place in Engineering, when it boils down to it we're just as good if we've had the training! Simple as!"

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

Lek listened to the exchange between Reyes and Metrikix and had to admit at least the Hyoomon knew her engineering. He didn't know her history with Romulans, but obviously it wasn't a pleasant one. Regardless of whatever it was, both the computer and the captain selected her, so if her frillies were scorched being here, it wasn't his fault. When asked what he wanted to see first, he chose a topic other than the cloaking device as well.

"Actually, I'd like to get a closer look at your singularity containment system. I'm fascinated by the concept of capturing and mastering a black hole to generate power."

[Richard James Litt]

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

[As NPC CSO - Evie Wardropper]

"I'm sure we can sort that for you, swing by my office sometime or come find me anytime we aren't preparing for a battle and I'll get you started on something.  I'll have a word with Hoshi and smooth everything in that regard.  Between you and me he will do anything for my baking!  He's got rather a sweet tooth!" the CSO chuckled.

"As for pets... well you're more than welcome to come and walk Robin and Maurice.  Would you like to see some photos?" Evie asked and flipped through her PADD to find a picture or 2.

"First one is when I got them as puppies.  They're 4 years old now, which is the next photo.  Robin is on the left, Maurice on the right.  Their brother is with my brother... Barry.  The dog that is not my brother.  Brother is Jimmy.  We named them after the Gibbs brothers cuz when they were younger it was 'Gib me treats, Gib me walkies, Gib me fuss...'!!" she laughed.

"They look tough but they're big softies, it's all in how you train them.  If you want a pet of your own I'm pretty sure there's a pet emporium on Innominatum, and rumour has it that if we're successful in reeling in Admiral Leyton we will have to deposit him at GHQ on Earth.  I'm sure you'll find a pet to your liking there!"

"...as for my wager with Mr. ch'Verret... I'm sure we can give you a ringside view!"

[USS Challenger · Bridge · Helm]

"I'll be thankful ma'am..." He answered about work with her and right after he gave a huge smile when she talked about Chief Dradis' taste for sweets.

When she gave the PADD to Litt, he took it and became soft with the pets. "They are so cute ma'am." He said returning the PADD to the CMO.

On hearing about the names of the puppies, Litt laughed and then his expression change to a surprise one when he heard that they would probably go to Earth if they managed to finish Leyton.

"That's new to me... And that news is freaking awesome!" He said thinking about that.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck One - Bridge]

"And I would love to go to Luigi's..." He started to answer when Mr. ch'Verret entered the bridge.

At the moment that Mr. ch'Verret entered, he and the CMO started a little conversation and Litt stayed just listening to them. Then, when they talked about some deal, he smiled a little bit.

"This should be fun to watch." He said in a good way to both of them.

"...as for my wager with Mr. ch'Verret... I'm sure we can give you a ringside view!"

Lahr turned to look to the flight officer with a perplexed look and then to the CSO when she seemed to go along with it and chuckled shaking his head.  "Watch?  No way, man.  Most Mario Party games are 4-player.  You are neck-deep in this bet too... so state your gamble.  And if you can think of someone to play as a fourth that would be even better!"

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Mess Hall --> Engineering Tal'Bath]

Lek wasn't certain what to think of Hecate. Her reputation for ruthlessness was well known, but in person, she was charming. Lek shrugged as he knew the true answer would not be pleasant to a non-Ferengi.

"Ma'am, most Ferengi food is vermiform in nature and unpalatable to other species, so I won't speak of it here. I do look forward the chance to see your ship's technology."

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

Lek listened to the exchange between Reyes and Metrikix and had to admit at least the Hyoomon knew her engineering. He didn't know her history with Romulans, but obviously it wasn't a pleasant one. Regardless of whatever it was, both the computer and the captain selected her, so if her frillies were scorched being here, it wasn't his fault. When asked what he wanted to see first, he chose a topic other than the cloaking device as well.

"Actually, I'd like to get a closer look at your singularity containment system. I'm fascinated by the concept of capturing and mastering a black hole to generate power."

[Tal'Bath Mess Hall and Engineering]

[Mess Hall slightly earlier as Hecate]

Hecate chuckled at the Chief Engineer's comments about Ferengi food.  "Can't be worse than Klingon gagh surely?  and I have, for politeness sake eaten that before... but I wouldn't by choice!"

Her amused expression reached her eyes and she laughed outright causing a few of her crew to look around wondering what it was that had their captain in such a good mood, something they hadn't seen for a while but it had been creeping on a lot more lately, maybe because she was going to finish Leyton for good.

[Engineering - Hecate and Lt. Metrikix]

"So... I bet this is so boring for you Mr. Ryder!" Metrikix said with a small smile, trying to include the random teal-shirted counsellor who had come along for the ride.

"Unless you're an engineer most of this will go over your head or you'll be saying 'Show me the cloaking device already!' cuz to be fair, that's what fascinates most laymen!"

She turned as her opposite number, Mr. Lek requested a look at the singularity containment system.  She almost spluttered and looked to Captain Hecate for permission.

Hecate raised one of her well sculptured brows then nodded.

"I'm not sure if you could use it on the Challenger, Mr. Lek but you're welcome to not only examine it but have a look at the schematics of how it works.  It's artificial you see.  We don't trap an actual black hole singularity... I think that might be somewhat more difficult. It's a forced quantum singularity, it's how we generate energy, rather than the more traditional matter-antimatter reaction used in your Federation starships. For us  to remain undetected while cloaked,... Metrikix, help me out here... my engineering knowledge isn't as good as it should be!"

The Romulan/Reman Chief Engineer nodded and took over.  "We use nullifier cores  to precisely balance the radiative emissions of the ship's engines, it's a delicate business!"

"Nullifier cores, that's what I was forgetting!" Hecate said.  "But there you have it, the holo schematics are there and if you'd like any of the information to take away and read you can as I trust you're not going to cause havoc with it.  The Federation already vetoed you using cloaking I think?  But would they object to you using it for one battle to give a slight advantage to your cause when you're going to be seriously out numbered potentially?!" she asked

Looking around she saw that the engineers were all busy chatting away and discussing things amiably even if there were a few less than benevolent looks from both sides, they were being professional and she left it at that, she couldn't know the back history of anyone and a little mistrust was natural.

"Once you're ready to return let either my Transporter Chief and Metrikix know, or your own, and know that it's been a pleasure having you.  I'll see you tomorrow morning at the meeting.  But for now, So long Mr. Lek." she bowed and left giving a nod to Metrikix to come and stand by her a moment.

"I trust them, Lek and Capt. Sigurdsdottir aren't going to use this against us, if anything it'll give them and therefore us an advantage in the upcoming battle.  If and when we are successful in capturing Leyton I think Ruth said that they have to take him back alive, more's the pity and it's likely that we'll all be involved in the court case against him, giving testimony.  At least those like yourself who were present when he ordered the execution of my family.  Federation HQ are not going to look kindly on us, we worked with Leyton at one point, until the whys and wherefores are got out of the way, we will be categorised as 'enemy', even if Ruth has messaged ahead.  They might not exactly be putting shackles on us and locking us in cells, but the attitude will be the same.  However, if we have a few bargaining chips like rescuing the twins... ok picking them up, they mostly rescued themselves, and readily sharing technology... it will help."

"OK Ma'am, I'll look after them for now, don't worry. I like the Ferengi, he's kinda funny in a grumpy way, but he's pleasant enough.  Reminds me of the Chief who taught me in a way!" Metrikix said, her eyes dancing with merriment.  This inter-ship mingling was having a good effect on the Captain and even she was feeling in a better mood than normal.

"Very good, I'll be in my office if anyone needs me, preparing for the meeting tomorrow."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[USS Challenger · Bridge · Helm]

"I'll be thankful ma'am..." He answered about work with her and right after he gave a huge smile when she talked about Chief Dradis' taste for sweets.

When she gave the PADD to Litt, he took it and became soft with the pets. "They are so cute ma'am." He said returning the PADD to the CMO.

On hearing about the names of the puppies, Litt laughed and then his expression change to a surprise one when he heard that they would probably go to Earth if they managed to finish Leyton.

"That's new to me... And that news is freaking awesome!" He said thinking about that.

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck One - Bridge]

Lahr turned to look to the flight officer with a perplexed look and then to the CSO when she seemed to go along with it and chuckled shaking his head.  "Watch?  No way, man.  Most Mario Party games are 4-player.  You are neck-deep in this bet too... so state your gamble.  And if you can think of someone to play as a fourth that would be even better!"

[Bridge - Challenger]

[As NPC CSO Lt. Cmdr Evie Wardropper]

The Chief of Science nodded and waved away Litt's thanks about sorting out about getting cross training.  It was after all something the Department Heads could do, with permission from the other Chief involved and the Captain's blessing.

When mention was made of the Earth trip however, she was surprised that no one else had worked it out or remembered the huge briefing... had Litt been there then or was it before his time, she couldn't remember, all she knew was that Ruth had said that unfortunately they had to at least try to bring him in alive.

"Well, That's the rumour I don't know if Mr ch'Verret can verify or not - about the Earth trip?" Evie said looking over at the Andorian.

"If you want I believe Barry and his doggie wife Dolly haven't long had puppies if you'd like an alsatian pup... " she scrolled thru her messages on her PADD from her brother.  "...yes, about 8 weeks ago so potentially by the time we're on Earth if that happens they'd be ready to go certainly by the time we're ready to leave.  And as you're a pilot I'm pretty sure we can find a shuttle to go over and have a look at them if you wanted, and visit when we aren't needed so the pup gets to know you?  Alternatively I know a few pet places both in England and America that we can check out.  Really depends what sort of animal you'd want!  Of course if you want one of Barry and Dolly's pups, my two will 'babysit' for you, they're very protective of young both dogs and bipedal babies... although at the age they prefer, they're crawling around the floor with the canine babies so I don't suppose it makes much difference to them!  They play with Skye, the Siggy Twins pup!"

"How about Dradis?" Evie suggested in response to the idea of a fourth player at the games.

"He might, he's normally up for a laugh, or why not the Captain herself? Blues versus Reds  in the loosest possible terms... I mean if it's Lahr, myself, Richard there and Hoshi then no offence Lahr, but the Captain refers to you as 'the blue man' or something, affectionately, and you're Andorian... be proud of that lovely shade of blue... and me... well I'm Sciences, then you have the fly boys.  Or if it were Ruth... well she's the Captain so she's red, and she's also been in flight... and Sciences... hmmmm!" she laughed.

"Either way we'll find a 4th!"

[Nathan Ryder]

[Engineering - Hecate and Lt. Metrikix]

"So... I bet this is so boring for you Mr. Ryder!" Metrikix said with a small smile, trying to include the random teal-shirted counsellor who had come along for the ride.

"Unless you're an engineer most of this will go over your head or you'll be saying 'Show me the cloaking device already!' cuz to be fair, that's what fascinates most laymen!"

At Kali's mention of a Breen scientist, and the hint of academic ruthlessness in her tone, Nathan's lips pulled into a mild but amused smirk. He had a feeling that even though she had said the article was submitted anonymously they both knew who had written it. When the Lieutenant turned her attention to him for a moment, he gave her a comforting smile. "Don't worry about me, ma'am. The details may be beyond my pay grade, but it does not make the conversation any less entertaining."

While he may not be able to do even half of the Engineering things that Kali could do in her sleep, that did not mean he found the two women's passion over the subject boring. Nathan was content to observe, as that was what he was there to do anyways. It was easier for him to assess a person's nature while not being the target of their conversation, so the more they got caught up in their engineering talks the better for him. His gaze surreptitiously followed the Captain as she pulled Metrikix to the side, but he found nothing suspicious in their body language and left it at that.

[Lek]

[Tal'Bath Mess Hall and Engineering]

[Mess Hall slightly earlier as Hecate]

Hecate chuckled at the Chief Engineer's comments about Ferengi food.  "Can't be worse than Klingon gagh surely?  and I have, for politeness sake eaten that before... but I wouldn't by choice!"

Her amused expression reached her eyes and she laughed outright causing a few of her crew to look around wondering what it was that had their captain in such a good mood, something they hadn't seen for a while but it had been creeping on a lot more lately, maybe because she was going to finish Leyton for good.

[Mess Hall - Tal'Bath]

Lek shrugged as he felt he'd done his due diligence and replied with a grin as he thought about his favorite food.

"Well then, I did warn you. I am particularly fond of jellied gree-worm. However, I've yet to find a replicator that can do it justice."

[Engineering - Hecate and Lt. Metrikix]

"So... I bet this is so boring for you Mr. Ryder!" Metrikix said with a small smile, trying to include the random teal-shirted counsellor who had come along for the ride.

"Unless you're an engineer most of this will go over your head or you'll be saying 'Show me the cloaking device already!' cuz to be fair, that's what fascinates most laymen!"

She turned as her opposite number, Mr. Lek requested a look at the singularity containment system.  She almost spluttered and looked to Captain Hecate for permission.

Hecate raised one of her well sculptured brows then nodded.

"I'm not sure if you could use it on the Challenger, Mr. Lek but you're welcome to not only examine it but have a look at the schematics of how it works.  It's artificial you see.  We don't trap an actual black hole singularity... I think that might be somewhat more difficult. It's a forced quantum singularity, it's how we generate energy, rather than the more traditional matter-antimatter reaction used in your Federation starships. For us  to remain undetected while cloaked,... Metrikix, help me out here... my engineering knowledge isn't as good as it should be!"

The Romulan/Reman Chief Engineer nodded and took over.  "We use nullifier cores  to precisely balance the radiative emissions of the ship's engines, it's a delicate business!"

"Nullifier cores, that's what I was forgetting!" Hecate said.  "But there you have it, the holo schematics are there and if you'd like any of the information to take away and read you can as I trust you're not going to cause havoc with it.  The Federation already vetoed you using cloaking I think?  But would they object to you using it for one battle to give a slight advantage to your cause when you're going to be seriously out numbered potentially?!" she asked

Looking around she saw that the engineers were all busy chatting away and discussing things amiably even if there were a few less than benevolent looks from both sides, they were being professional and she left it at that, she couldn't know the back history of anyone and a little mistrust was natural.

"Once you're ready to return let either my Transporter Chief and Metrikix know, or your own, and know that it's been a pleasure having you.  I'll see you tomorrow morning at the meeting.  But for now, So long Mr. Lek." she bowed and left giving a nod to Metrikix to come and stand by her a moment.

"I trust them, Lek and Capt. Sigurdsdottir aren't going to use this against us, if anything it'll give them and therefore us an advantage in the upcoming battle.  If and when we are successful in capturing Leyton I think Ruth said that they have to take him back alive, more's the pity and it's likely that we'll all be involved in the court case against him, giving testimony.  At least those like yourself who were present when he ordered the execution of my family.  Federation HQ are not going to look kindly on us, we worked with Leyton at one point, until the whys and wherefores are got out of the way, we will be categorised as 'enemy', even if Ruth has messaged ahead.  They might not exactly be putting shackles on us and locking us in cells, but the attitude will be the same.  However, if we have a few bargaining chips like rescuing the twins... ok picking them up, they mostly rescued themselves, and readily sharing technology... it will help."

"OK Ma'am, I'll look after them for now, don't worry. I like the Ferengi, he's kinda funny in a grumpy way, but he's pleasant enough.  Reminds me of the Chief who taught me in a way!" Metrikix said, her eyes dancing with merriment.  This inter-ship mingling was having a good effect on the Captain and even she was feeling in a better mood than normal.

"Very good, I'll be in my office if anyone needs me, preparing for the meeting tomorrow."

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

Lek was a little amused by the reaction to his request, he figured they were surprised he wasn't falling over himself to see the cloaking device. Even though he would love to take one apart and learn how to make one fit into Federation technology, they were forbidden and it wouldn't be productive in his mind.

"Oh I know your singularities are artificial, but that doesn't make them any less remarkable and while I know they will never work with Federation technology, that doesn't make them any less fascinating to me. I suppose, in the interest of Romulan and Federation friendship, it would be useful for a Starfleet engineer to have a working idea of how to repair your technology should we ever encounter one of your ships in distress."

[Kali Reyes]

[Tal'Bath - Engineering]

She spent the rest of the conversation waiting for the schematics upload. As Ryder politely spoke to the Romulans, Kali was already tapping away at her PADD for a closer look at the covariant formulas. Her lips thinned as they talked about the Federation's stance on cloaking technology - remembering something Grey off-handedly said a long while ago:

"What's best for the Federation and isn't always what's best for Earth."

If he were still alive, would he have asked her to harmlessly copy a few indiscriminate schematics for the sake of the Federation?

"I knew it," she growled, glancing at Ryder. "He forgot to take into consideration the engine size between a heavy cruiser and a standard bird-of-prey into his calculations and the bastard had the gall to critique my coolant prototype? The next time I see him, I'm siphoning laughing gas into his filtration system."

[Kyle Briggs]

[Interrogation Room - USS Challenger]

Kyle stood up and walked over to the replicator. He returned with another glass of water and watched as the young woman drank it as well.

"This information will help a lot." he said. "I'll take the list and your recommendation to the Captain and we'll go from there. But first, I need to return you to your cell." he said as he extended a hand to assist her up.

Kyle saw the nurse working on the other female when he returned to the cell area.

"How she doing, Doc? Gonna live?" he teased.

Once he got a reply and secured his charge, he nodded to Bailey who was still there with the nurse.

"I got to go see the Captain. Hold down the fort." he told the other Lieutenant.

[Outside Ready Room - USS Challenger]

He left the Brig and hopped into the turbo lift. He came up in the port side lift and walked straight to the Captain's Ready Room and pressed the chime to announce himself and waited.

[Olivia Briggs]

[Holding Cell - Brig - USS Challenger]
[As Angosian NPC Rosa]

"Thank you Nurse,.." Rosa said.  "Don't know if you've ever had a Nausicaan's boot up your posterior but I can tell you... it hurts!" she said with a hint of a smile and a laugh.  "Please don't be worried, I'm not going to attack you or anything, it's only Guuthash and, when that ugly brute provokes my husband Marvial who are the aggressive types.  I'm just along for the show of it, you know business couple with bodyguard and tour guide.  Will be nice to sit down without the bruises hurting! You're very pretty you know, you shouldn't be embarrassed when a presentable young man like that young Ensign compliments you!  You might get a date out of it at least!"

[Interrogation Room - USS Challenger]

Kyle saw the nurse working on the other female when he returned to the cell area.

"How she doing, Doc? Gonna live?" he teased.

Once he got a reply and secured his charge, he nodded to Bailey who was still there with the nurse.

"I got to go see the Captain. Hold down the fort." he told the other Lieutenant.

[Nurse Amelia Rennie - Brig]

" No need to thank me, I'm only doing my job and as for that, no so I can only imagine how it must feel" Amelia replied, unsure what to make about the prisoner known as Rosa. Deciding it was probably better for her to just focus on fixing her injuries, as she was reassured that she had nothing to worry about, before Rosa brought on herself to comment about what had happened outside.

Amelia wanted nothing more than for the ground to open up and swallow her, wondering why she felt the need to bring it up or for that matter, give her advice about it. It was bad enough that she had allowed herself to get embarrassed but it was another thing for someone to think that they knew, what she wanted.

" I appreciate what you've said, all of it, however I'd rather not talk about what happened or how I should deal with it".

The Nurse, knew she couldn't of remained silent, despite her best efforts. Although she soon finished what she was doing, mending the damage and the bruises, before Chief Briggs, teased her about the patient.

Almost becoming a little more flustered, but considering he was her Boss's husband, managed to smile as she answered him. " She'll make a full recovery Chief, sorry for the bad news" she said jokingly, as he then spoke to Bailey and left them.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck One - Bridge]

[Bridge - Challenger]

[As NPC CSO Lt. Cmdr Evie Wardropper]

The Chief of Science nodded and waved away Litt's thanks about sorting out about getting cross training.  It was after all something the Department Heads could do, with permission from the other Chief involved and the Captain's blessing.

When mention was made of the Earth trip however, she was surprised that no one else had worked it out or remembered the huge briefing... had Litt been there then or was it before his time, she couldn't remember, all she knew was that Ruth had said that unfortunately they had to at least try to bring him in alive.

"Well, That's the rumour I don't know if Mr ch'Verret can verify or not - about the Earth trip?" Evie said looking over at the Andorian.

"If you want I believe Barry and his doggie wife Dolly haven't long had puppies if you'd like an alsatian pup... " she scrolled thru her messages on her PADD from her brother.  "...yes, about 8 weeks ago so potentially by the time we're on Earth if that happens they'd be ready to go certainly by the time we're ready to leave.  And as you're a pilot I'm pretty sure we can find a shuttle to go over and have a look at them if you wanted, and visit when we aren't needed so the pup gets to know you?  Alternatively I know a few pet places both in England and America that we can check out.  Really depends what sort of animal you'd want!  Of course if you want one of Barry and Dolly's pups, my two will 'babysit' for you, they're very protective of young both dogs and bipedal babies... although at the age they prefer, they're crawling around the floor with the canine babies so I don't suppose it makes much difference to them!  They play with Skye, the Siggy Twins pup!"

"How about Dradis?" Evie suggested in response to the idea of a fourth player at the games.

"He might, he's normally up for a laugh, or why not the Captain herself? Blues versus Reds  in the loosest possible terms... I mean if it's Lahr, myself, Richard there and Hoshi then no offence Lahr, but the Captain refers to you as 'the blue man' or something, affectionately, and you're Andorian... be proud of that lovely shade of blue... and me... well I'm Sciences, then you have the fly boys.  Or if it were Ruth... well she's the Captain so she's red, and she's also been in flight... and Sciences... hmmmm!" she laughed.

"Either way we'll find a 4th!"

Lahr frowned as for the second time the CSO tried to get him to spill intel on the Captain's plans.  "Sorry ma'am I haven't been given the go-ahead to confirm or deny anything."

The Andorian though the idea of Reds vs Blues amusing.  "Shame we lost Taray.  She'd have been blue enough."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

At Kali's mention of a Breen scientist, and the hint of academic ruthlessness in her tone, Nathan's lips pulled into a mild but amused smirk. He had a feeling that even though she had said the article was submitted anonymously they both knew who had written it. When the Lieutenant turned her attention to him for a moment, he gave her a comforting smile. "Don't worry about me, ma'am. The details may be beyond my pay grade, but it does not make the conversation any less entertaining."

While he may not be able to do even half of the Engineering things that Kali could do in her sleep, that did not mean he found the two women's passion over the subject boring. Nathan was content to observe, as that was what he was there to do anyways. It was easier for him to assess a person's nature while not being the target of their conversation, so the more they got caught up in their engineering talks the better for him. His gaze surreptitiously followed the Captain as she pulled Metrikix to the side, but he found nothing suspicious in their body language and left it at that.

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

[As Lt. Metrikix, Captain Hecate]

"So long as you're not bored stupid, Doctor... that's all that matters.  Bored people, especially men in my experience, start fiddling with things.  And in my Engineering Department that's the equivalent of an excuse to have an airlocking accident, if you know what I mean!"  Lt. Metrikix said coming back to the main party.

[Tal'Bath - Engineering]

She spent the rest of the conversation waiting for the schematics upload. As Ryder politely spoke to the Romulans, Kali was already tapping away at her PADD for a closer look at the covariant formulas. Her lips thinned as they talked about the Federation's stance on cloaking technology - remembering something Grey off-handedly said a long while ago:

"What's best for the Federation and isn't always what's best for Earth."

If he were still alive, would he have asked her to harmlessly copy a few indiscriminate schematics for the sake of the Federation?

"I knew it," she growled, glancing at Ryder. "He forgot to take into consideration the engine size between a heavy cruiser and a standard bird-of-prey into his calculations and the bastard had the gall to critique my coolant prototype? The next time I see him, I'm siphoning laughing gas into his filtration system."

Metrikix let out a hoot of laughter.  "Is she always like this, can we keep her please.  She's just the kind of person that would liven this place up a bit!  As for laughing gas... well I suppose that's not going to kill anyone although I know a human phrase to 'die laughing'..."

[Mess Hall - Tal'Bath]

Lek shrugged as he felt he'd done his due diligence and replied with a grin as he thought about his favorite food.

"Well then, I did warn you. I am particularly fond of jellied gree-worm. However, I've yet to find a replicator that can do it justice."

"Well,.." Hecate said admitting defeat, "... Can't say that I've had them, and having a distinct lack of Ferengis on board... you being the only one this side of Innominatum I believe,  I can't offer you any.  However, and this is between you and me, I'll be expected to go to Earth with you once we capture Leyton... I'll probably be questioned within an inch of my life, possibly... but I think how much I've helped you will help... though that's not why I'm doing this by the way."  Hecate quickly added.

"But, if I ever get to walk free, for long enough to find a Ferengi run restaurant, I swear now that I will have a full Ferengi meal with you, try anything you ask me to and promise to try not to pull too many faces unless it's appreciative!  Can't say that I don't or do like something until I've tried it!"

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

Lek was a little amused by the reaction to his request, he figured they were surprised he wasn't falling over himself to see the cloaking device. Even though he would love to take one apart and learn how to make one fit into Federation technology, they were forbidden and it wouldn't be productive in his mind.

"Oh I know your singularities are artificial, but that doesn't make them any less remarkable and while I know they will never work with Federation technology, that doesn't make them any less fascinating to me. I suppose, in the interest of Romulan and Federation friendship, it would be useful for a Starfleet engineer to have a working idea of how to repair your technology should we ever encounter one of your ships in distress."

"I suppose I never thought of it like that.  But yes, that makes total sense.  I suppose a mutual exchange of information would be useful."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Interrogation Room - USS Challenger]

Kyle stood up and walked over to the replicator. He returned with another glass of water and watched as the young woman drank it as well.

"This information will help a lot." he said. "I'll take the list and your recommendation to the Captain and we'll go from there. But first, I need to return you to your cell." he said as he extended a hand to assist her up.

Kyle saw the nurse working on the other female when he returned to the cell area.

"How she doing, Doc? Gonna live?" he teased.

Once he got a reply and secured his charge, he nodded to Bailey who was still there with the nurse.

"I got to go see the Captain. Hold down the fort." he told the other Lieutenant.

[USS Challenger - Brig - Interrogation Room]

[As Olga-Frid Thorsdottir]

"Thank you Lieutenant." Olga said both to the refill of water and the proffered hand. "I don't know a lot about Leyton's HQ other than it's in the Black Cluster as I've never been there.  But I can confirm it's in there but I think you've already gathered that as I know you blew the Science Lab to bits, and then looked to the caves in the Crimson Nebula so you've been around just about every base he's ever had.  If I can answer any other little questions, I'll try to."

[Outside Ready Room - USS Challenger]

He left the Brig and hopped into the turbo lift. He came up in the port side lift and walked straight to the Captain's Ready Room and pressed the chime to announce himself and waited.

[USS Challenger - Ready Room]

[As Ruth Sigurdsdottir, CO]

"Come In!" the Captain said guessing that it was Kyle.  This was something she was both looking forward to and dreading in equal measure.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck One - Bridge]

Lahr frowned as for the second time the CSO tried to get him to spill intel on the Captain's plans.  "Sorry ma'am I haven't been given the go-ahead to confirm or deny anything."

The Andorian though the idea of Reds vs Blues amusing.  "Shame we lost Taray.  She'd have been blue enough."

[USS Challenger - Bridge]

[As Lt. Cmdr Evie Wardropper - CSO]

"No worries Mr. ch'Verret, it'll be a nice trip if it's going to happen. As for Lt. Taray, I believe if we're coming back to Innominatum for the re-naming ceremony that would probably tie in with around the time that she'd be having her baby I believe.  I think unfortunately even if we were to decamp to Pickles Bar for it rather than Luigi's she's going to have her hands more than full.  But depending on our orders after dropping off Leyton - I'm calling this as we're gonna win, I'm not talking any other possibilities here!... we might be here for a baby shower or something!" Evie said obviously warming to the thought of being able to cuddle another baby.

"I suppose I should start getting the meteorological reports for the next few days over our general area of presumed attack. Might be useful for battle planning."

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

[USS Challenger - Bridge]
[As Lt. Cmdr Evie Wardropper - CSO]

"No worries Mr. ch'Verret, it'll be a nice trip if it's going to happen. As for Lt. Taray, I believe if we're coming back to Innominatum for the re-naming ceremony that would probably tie in with around the time that she'd be having her baby I believe.  I think unfortunately even if we were to decamp to Pickles Bar for it rather than Luigi's she's going to have her hands more than full.  But depending on our orders after dropping off Leyton - I'm calling this as we're gonna win, I'm not talking any other possibilities here!... we might be here for a baby shower or something!" Evie said obviously warming to the thought of being able to cuddle another baby.

"I suppose I should start getting the meteorological reports for the next few days over our general area of presumed attack. Might be useful for battle planning."

Lahr hadn't considered that by the time they returned to Innominatum after all this mess that the Benzite, Taray, would be ready to have her baby.  Had it really already been that long?  Lahr mentally reviewed the past several months.  Yeah, he supposed so.  Wow so much had gone on.

"Don't you worry ma'am.  We'll win." he assured - agreeing with her confidence over the outcome.

At the mention of her tasks that needed to get done, Lahr nodded.  He had his own work to get to.   He turned back to his console and got to it.   Tomorrow's meeting wouldn't organize itself.

[Lek]

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

[As Lt. Metrikix, Captain Hecate]

"So long as you're not bored stupid, Doctor... that's all that matters.  Bored people, especially men in my experience, start fiddling with things.  And in my Engineering Department that's the equivalent of an excuse to have an airlocking accident, if you know what I mean!"  Lt. Metrikix said coming back to the main party.

Metrikix let out a hoot of laughter.  "Is she always like this, can we keep her please.  She's just the kind of person that would liven this place up a bit!  As for laughing gas... well I suppose that's not going to kill anyone although I know a human phrase to 'die laughing'..."

"Well,.." Hecate said admitting defeat, "... Can't say that I've had them, and having a distinct lack of Ferengis on board... you being the only one this side of Innominatum I believe,  I can't offer you any.  However, and this is between you and me, I'll be expected to go to Earth with you once we capture Leyton... I'll probably be questioned within an inch of my life, possibly... but I think how much I've helped you will help... though that's not why I'm doing this by the way."  Hecate quickly added.

"But, if I ever get to walk free, for long enough to find a Ferengi run restaurant, I swear now that I will have a full Ferengi meal with you, try anything you ask me to and promise to try not to pull too many faces unless it's appreciative!  Can't say that I don't or do like something until I've tried it!"

"I suppose I never thought of it like that.  But yes, that makes total sense.  I suppose a mutual exchange of information would be useful."

[Engineering - Tal'Bath]

Metrikix had no idea how tempting her request was to Lek, but he knew there was absolutely no hope of that ever happening despite how it would be a win for both sides. However, he was Starfleet as was Reyes, so there simply wasn't away to agree to the Romulan's request. Knowing there was no proper answer to Metrikix's statement, Lek simply smiled and considered Hecate's statement.

Lek still didn't know what to think of Hecate or her offer to have a Ferengi meal on Earth. This whole mission aboard the Tal'Bath baffled him, but he figured he'd make the most of the opportunity to study Romulan technology. He was completely serious about wanting to have a working knowledge of their power generating technology, especially if the Federation and the Empire finally managed to negotiate a treaty.

"I'm not sure how many Ferengi restaurants are on Earth, but if we can find a decent one, I would appreciate the company Captain."