S3:E9 All Bad Things Come To An End

[Lek]

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck Nine - Armory]

Lahr, of course, had kept Helga informed as to the Onizuka's anticipated arrival time and had even offered to 'fix' the schedule for her to be off-shift for the Ferengi's arrival.  This offer only made Helga scowl and Klingon hybrid declined the Andorian's matchmaking help.  She made sure she was working when Lek expected to arrive, but couldn't help but arrange for her own contacts - the Shuttlebay security personnel -  to keep her informed as to when he actually arrived.

They let her know that he exited the shuttle grumbling.  For the first few minutes afterwards, she held out hope that me might contact her, but he left the shuttlebay without so much as a 'I'm back.  Did you miss me?' call.

Helga wished she had let Lahr get her that day off... then she could head to the 'gym' and work off some of this building anger and frustration.  She tried to focus inventory work but her mind was not on the task, it was on her stupid Ferengi boyfriend.

Then unexpectedly Lek's call came.  Helga turned to look to her partner - zh'Tianihr this week - pleadingly as she tapped her comm badge.

"I'm on shift right now."   she answered more calmly that she thought she was capable of being at the moment.

At which point Seren, gave Helga exasperated look, before cutting in loudly to be hear over the comm.  "But she's due for her lunch break in 15 minutes!! She'll see you then!"

Helga covered her comm badge with her hand... to hopefully muffle it's microphone.  "Seren, what the hell are you doing?  I told you, I asked for this shift to avoid him!" The Klingon hissed clearly upset that her friend had betrayed her.

The female Andorian grinned.  "He deserves a chance to explain himself.   Besides he's suggesting a public place which means you've really got him worried. Just go... see what he says. I'll call in someone with the excuse that you felt ill if you end up ... delayed." zh'Tianihr looked at Helga pointedly with a knowing smirk.

Helga sighed and uncovered the comm.  "Fine. I'll see you at Luigi's in 15, Lek."

[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria (and Arcade)](15 minutes later)
Helga stepped through the sliding plexiglass doors and looked over the pizzeria's interior for Lek.

[Luigi's Pizzeria - Deck 5 - USS Challenger]

As Helga was clearly upset, Lek hoped she would hear him out before she broke things off. He sat at a table and dejectedly spun the gift he'd made. The object, wrapped in a very fine silken cloth, was 25 centimeters long and about 10 wide.

Even though he knew rehearsing a conversation was typically pointless, but he'd had too much time alone to avoid doing just that. He knew what he wanted to say and had a rough idea of how to say it, but he wasn't certain Helga was in the mood for that. She'd made it very clear when he'd called her that she was angry and he wasn't sure he had the words for that. He sighed deeply and muttered.

"No matter how broken they get, machines don't get angry at you."

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria]

Luigi's was more than a restaurant, more than an arcade it was a place where friends could hang out and enjoy playing all the various Nintendo games hits like Mario Party 4, Mario Kart Double Dash, and Super Smash Bros. Melee.  Helga's favorite by far was Melee.  There was something satisfying about bashing her opponents about on the game screen.

The restaurant was rather quiet at the moment with only one other table of four playing a Mario Party mini-game and Helga wondered if that was just happenstance or if Lek and made some sort of arrangement.   She gave a slight snort, nah.. not Lek.  He wasn't normally the one to pre-plan things.  All their 'dates' so far had been at her insistence and planning.  Lek just didn't seem invested enough to plan for something romantic like a date.  And up until recently when he disappeared for this wedding without her, that had been enough.  But her disappointment and anger at being left behind pointed out to her that she wanted more than just ... good oomox and roll in the sack... she wanted their relationship to be acknowledged, for it to mean something.

Lek, she noted was seated at a table along looking dejected.  Well, at least he seemed like he knew he messed up - that should count for something, right?  He was fiddling with some wrapped object on the table.  Oh?  A gift?  This was new.  He'd never gifted her anything before and the she felt a bit of her ire seep away.

Tamping down on her blossoming hopes, Helga made sure she didn't look too interested in the object as she walked over and sat down.   A proper greeting after over 2 weeks away should have included an embrace, several heated kisses and teasing stroke of his lobes to hint at what would come later... but she was still upset - even with the gift - so all he got was a nod.

"How was the wedding?"

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

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

Lahr didn't know the full history of Challenger but with the Captain's full access he could check the man's service record.  However now was not the time to do so. "I don't know about that ma'am.  If so it wasn't when I was aboard or we didn't move in the same circles. You'll have to ask him yourself when we arrive."

The petty officer didn't know what to say in response to the offer getting together for a coffee.  He supposed that the CSO was attempting to be friendly, much like how the Captain was that first day he'd met her when she was just the XO.  The Andorian gave a slight bob of his head as he glanced back towards the woman.  "Thanks.  I'd like that... Granny." Lahr said the last with a smirk.

[USS Challenger - Bridge]
[As CSO 'Granny' Evie Wardropper]

Evie chuckled at Lahr responding to her invitation and calling her 'Granny'.  She pursed her lips in mock seriousness and wagged a playful finger at him then winked.  She'd leave it to him as to whether he actually took her up on the offer or not.

[A little later...]
The Andorian's antenna perked at hearing the Captain's voice in response to his forwarded call.  At the Captain's orders' Lahr was quick begin making the calls she'd asked for.

"Challenger to the 'Greek Goddess of Magic and Witchcraft'.  The Captain has asked me to pass on her heartfelt thank you.  Though I am certain she will wish to express so to you and your crew herself when we rendezvous.  If I were you, I'd come prepared with a wishlist of things she might normally say no to... because right now she is so in your debt."   Lahr laughed to show he was just joking.

"In all seriousness, we thank you. I'm glad I was wrong about you.  We'll see you, shortly. Challenger out."

He closed the comm with the Tal'Bath then contacted the members of the 'Away Team'.

"Lahr to Litt, Bailey, Grelek, and T'Varn.  The Captain has asked that I pass on that you all have the next 48 hrs off to rest and recuperate.  Oh and she asks if anyone knows where her bag is?"

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

[Tal'Bath - Bridge]

[As Captain Hecate]

=/TB\= Challenger, The Goddess herself here Mr. Lahr! =/TB\= Hecate chuckled.   =/TB\=Tell our favourite Valkyrie that she's most welcome and I'll be happy to have dinner with her when we rendezvous and hand over the goods.  I'm glad you think differently of me now.  I know it wouldn't be easy for you to not be suspicious of me... and I think I'm sort of happy that you were, shows you were doing your job properly!  To further that I'm going to extend an invitation for you and is it Mr. Lek your Chief Engineer? To come over and have a look around... we didn't let him or you near our systems last time but I think we can trust each other now.  As for favours... I'll have a think!  Huggin and Muninn send their love, they've got their heads firmly tucked under their wings but they're well fed and comfy. 'Greek Goddess of Magic and Witchcraft' out  =/TB\=

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

[Sickbay]

Will had taken a moment to do a mental inventory when he finally saw Ruth in front of him. Over the last week he felt he was at his breaking point multiple times yet none of that mattered now. She was back and she was here. "Thank god you are okay... I was so worried..." he said once they were once again alone, closing the distance so he could reach for her hand "I was angry and upset but I am neither now. I am relieved. I am well and truly relieved. Kyle and Olivia could tell you I was basically on autopilot. I was so worried and concerned, and scared. I know why you did it but... part of me thought this would end with your name on a plaque instead of seeing you again. Please, please, please don't ever do that again Ruth. I love you more than anything else but please, promise me that we won't have to do this again. Please." he asked, his voice softer than usual and not the outburst he knew Ruth would likely be expecting. If she had come home a few days earlier that would've happened but he had since made the transition to 'cruise control'. All he cared about was that she was back. That is what mattered.

[USS Challenger - Sickbay]

Ruth was rather taken aback by Will's softer tone, she was expecting a tirade.

"Um, about the hair, I'll grow it back but it got burnt and it stank.  Some nice cadet on the Arkansas tidied up my hacked off look... I just couldn't stand the smell when it happened so I nicked the scissors out of the medkit and cut off the burnt ends."

The Captain considered what her husband said and smiled with a sigh.  "William Quentin Waring, you should know by now there was a reason I didn't put '...and obey...' into the wedding vows and used '...cherish...' instead.  You know me, when it comes to the twins I would put my life on the line.  I dread the day that I have to choose between you and them."

She started laughing, slightly on the edge of a mad sort of laugh but it was just relief and exhaustion mixed.  "Wait, I just did. But you're old enough and wise enough to know why I did it and understand. Look... I promise you this much.  First I will try not to go hareing off without telling you where I am or what I'm doing.  Secondly, If everything goes to plan in the next week or so we will have a very high profile prisoner on board and well... I have orders to deliver him to HQ in San Francisco preferably alive so he is made to pay for his crimes.  Since that means we have to go to Earth Spacedock, and you have a nice big manor house and extensive grounds that you've never visited."

Ruth took a deep breath and then grinned.  "How would it be if we deferred our honeymoon until we get to Earth, take a month of leave... the whole crew.  I'm sure that I could persuade Liv and Maggie to say that after all the crew have been through in the last 2 years they need extended leave, Lek can shuttle between Waring Manor and the Spacedock so that any and all the repairs are done, we can shuttle across to hearings but in the meantime there's enough little cottages and chalets and huts and rooms etc on the grounds and in the manor that we could house our senior crew at the Manor without bumping into each other, everyone else can take digs wherever they wish, but we will hold barbeques and stuff for them and a party...would you agree to that?  And apart from a very few times when we'll have say dinner with the Briggs, or dinner with Lahr because I owe him a lot, or the said party or barbeque etc, we just spend as much alone time as we want when we're not needed over in America for hearings.  Agree?"

She beckoned Liv over and before she got to them she said "In the short time we've got between here and our rendezvous with various allies I trust are coming in, we can have a small party here and of course once the docs here pass me fit..."

The redhead waggled her eyes suggestively.  "... there's still a wedding night to be had!"  she was sure that Liv would probably hear her and she didn't really care.  She needed to say sorry to her friend too.

[Lek]

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria]

Luigi's was more than a restaurant, more than an arcade it was a place where friends could hang out and enjoy playing all the various Nintendo games hits like Mario Party 4, Mario Kart Double Dash, and Super Smash Bros. Melee.  Helga's favorite by far was Melee.  There was something satisfying about bashing her opponents about on the game screen.

The restaurant was rather quiet at the moment with only one other table of four playing a Mario Party mini-game and Helga wondered if that was just happenstance or if Lek and made some sort of arrangement.   She gave a slight snort, nah.. not Lek.  He wasn't normally the one to pre-plan things.  All their 'dates' so far had been at her insistence and planning.  Lek just didn't seem invested enough to plan for something romantic like a date.  And up until recently when he disappeared for this wedding without her, that had been enough.  But her disappointment and anger at being left behind pointed out to her that she wanted more than just ... good oomox and roll in the sack... she wanted their relationship to be acknowledged, for it to mean something.

Lek, she noted was seated at a table along looking dejected.  Well, at least he seemed like he knew he messed up - that should count for something, right?  He was fiddling with some wrapped object on the table.  Oh?  A gift?  This was new.  He'd never gifted her anything before and the she felt a bit of her ire seep away.

Tamping down on her blossoming hopes, Helga made sure she didn't look too interested in the object as she walked over and sat down.   A proper greeting after over 2 weeks away should have included an embrace, several heated kisses and teasing stroke of his lobes to hint at what would come later... but she was still upset - even with the gift - so all he got was a nod.

"How was the wedding?"

[Luigi's Pizzeria - Deck 5 - USS Challenger]

Lek rose managed to smile on seeing Helga as he wasn't completely certain that she'd show up. He waited until she was seated before clearing his throat and hoped he didn't make a fool out of himself.

"The ceremony was nice, I especially liked Ba'ku, hard to imagine such a tranquil planet can exist in such a turbulent part of space. I will get right to the point as I know you are on shift. The simple reason I didn't invite you along was I didn't know that was normal for a Hyoomon wedding. It wasn't until I was on my way that I read up on the topic and found out about the term 'plus one', but by that time it was too late to ask.

"Once I discovered that I had probably hurt your feelings, I felt terrible and the only thing I could think to do was to do something personal to show you that I am sorry and that it only happened because Ferengi wedding traditions are simple business transaction, affection is rarely part of the the process. In any case this is what I made."

Lek pulled back the cloth covering the object and inside was a d'k tahg. It was an older design with the side blades simple triangles recessed into the hilt.

"If I'd had the resources, I would have hand forged it, but the replicator on a Type-9 shuttle is not sophisticated enough for that, so I had to replicate each part individually, but I did assemble it by hand though. I know how personal these weapons are to the individual that uses them and there were so many choices in design, that I had to make a couple guesses when I made it, so I chose the most traditional blade I could find."

He picked it up and pressed a button near the hilt and the triangles along the main blade snapped open to reveal the traditional parrying blades common for the weapon.

"I thought this one was best for concealed carry as the side blades retract. I hope that this shows you that I am sorry and how much you mean to me."

He had spoken without pause and now stopped with an expression showing concern that his gesture might not be enough.

[Richard James Litt]

[USS Challenger · Bridge · Helm]
As Dradis

Dradis was at the helm waiting for some instructions when he received some coordinates from Mr. ch'Verret. A few seconds later he received a call from the Captain.

[Sickbay - USS Challenger]

Sigurdsdottir to Bridge, Mr. Dradis proceed to co-ordinates, and Mr. ch'Verret, send a message to our esteemed friend on the Tal'Bath... usual flowery compliments... she chuckled knowing that Lahr would do it his own way no matter what.   ... just lay it on thick with the thanks because I really am relieved the Twins are safe.  It means Dr. Briggs won't have to tie me down before I'm trying to take out another Shuttlecraft... JOKE, JOKE!! 

Aye ma'am! He answered to the Captain and then started to prepare.

"All set up... We're leaving in 3 ... 2 ... 1 ... Now!" He said and then he started to proceed to the coordinates.

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

[USS Challenger · Litt's quarter]
As Litt

After the little adventure aboard the Mjolnir Litt was at his quarter, preparing for his duties and think if one day he would be able to flight the delta flyer without any sabotage in the vessel.

When he was about to leave, he received a call from Mr. ch'Verret.

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

"Lahr to Litt, Bailey, Grelek, and T'Varn.  The Captain has asked that I pass on that you all have the next 48 hrs off to rest and recuperate.  Oh and she asks if anyone knows where her bag is?"

Aye, sir... I know where the bag is... I can take it into the sickbay.

He said and prepared to go to the sickbay to deliver the captain's bag.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

2 days later - approaching rendezvous point.
Sickbay - USS Challenger]

"Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease release me, let me gooooooooooooooooooooooooo" sang Ruth deliberately out of tune, hoping that if nothing else she would be allowed to go and sit on the Bridge and do her duty.

"Dr. Briggs, Dr. York, whoever.... pretty please, I've been a good girl and done everything you've said, eaten and drank plenty, pooped and peed and had blood drawn... and you know how much I hate that... to order, can I please now go and be a Captain.  I promise I'm not going to do anything stupid.  The most strenuous thing I'm going to do is erm... well that!"

She shot a look at a couple of the medical ensigns who started giggling.  "You're too young to understand, I'm married and I've not even had my wedding night yet.  Admittedly that's my own fault.  But that and hugging my sisters when I get them back on board.  I'm going to let Mr. Briggs loose on the kidnappers.  I'm not letting Lahr anywhere near them.  Two reasons, he'll either flirt outrageously with that Scandinavian looking one, who is quite attractive, or try killing them and end up pummelled by the Nausicaan because they dared hurt his Captain's family.  Can't fault his loyalty though.  Just let me out of this bed.  I have meetings to hold and Captain-ing to do.  Pleeeeeeeeeeease!" the Captain begged.  "I need to thank whomever got my bag sorted too, I was asleep at the time."

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

[Tal'Bath - Bridge]

[As NPC Captain Hecate, Arya and Katya Sigurdsdottir]

"Well you two, it's been a pleasure meeting you and having you aboard, I think we're hanging around here for a bit, so if you've not got your fill of this ship feel free to arrange to hop across while we're in range, I'll clear it with my Chief of Security and Chief of Science that you are allowed to look at most things.  There will be personal projects people don't want people nosing around but it's nothing illegal or forbidden I promise.  I guess it's like Earthen men and their vehicles or your Chief Dradis and his small craft... they treat them like babies!"  Hecate chuckled.

"Thank you for rescuing us." Arya said smiling at the woman before her.

"I think you pretty much rescued yourselves, we just brought the cavalry! Most teenagers do not take on a fully grown Nausicaan on their own, even with the assistance of chloroform!" the Captain laughed.

"Have you decided what you want to ask Ruth for by way of thank you for this?" Katya asked with a grin.

"Oh come now, I think between Captains it's a matter of pride of just doing a good job.  But I am partial to a good bottle of Schnapps!  And a bit of wedding cake if there's any left!" Hecate said with a smile.

"Would you like to do the honours?  I know neither of you are Ops nor do you intend serving on a ship like mine but the Ops officer there will assist, if you want to you may put out the call to the Challenger to let them know we're in position."

"OH COOL!  I mean, thank you Captain that will be great." Katya said.  The woman in the comfy centre chair just chuckled.

"I think if my children had lived, my daughters might have turned out rather like you two.  I'll need permission from Ruth obviously, but I'll float the idea past the people in question first.  Would... would you consent to being adoptive nieces of mine.  It's as close as I'm going to get to having daughters, and you two... well I was incredibly proud of you which was strange because I have no jurisdiction, familial connections or anything else other than admiring your handiwork!" she said with a small sigh.

"Well if Ruth says ok, I'd like to!" Arya said, and as she was closest to the Romulan woman she planted a small kiss on her cheek "Auntie Hecate!"

"Me too, every family has to have at least one rebel in it!" Katya said with a cheeky grin.

"OK OK don't make me get mushy it'll ruin my street cred.  Get that message sent."  Hecate said feeling happier than she had before Leyton killed her husband and children and not minding the smiles around the Bridge officers.  Most had been there on the day in question and while she'd never openly been upset or even ruthless... they knew how it had affected her.  They were glad to see her laughing and smiling again, and if these 2 young redheads were doing it, that was fine with them.

=/TB\=Huggin and Muninn to Challenger.  The Goddess sends her regards. We are in position, awaiting your instructions.  =/TB\= Arya announced once the Ops officer showed her first how the controls worked and then nodded to say the channel was open.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

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

[USS Challenger - Bridge]
[As CSO 'Granny' Evie Wardropper]

Evie chuckled at Lahr responding to her invitation and calling her 'Granny'.  She pursed her lips in mock seriousness and wagged a playful finger at him then winked.  She'd leave it to him as to whether he actually took her up on the offer or not.

Lahr grinned back at the CSO's finger waggle, before turning back to his duties.

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

[Tal'Bath - Bridge]
[As Captain Hecate]

=/TB\= Challenger, The Goddess herself here Mr. Lahr! =/TB\= Hecate chuckled.   =/TB\=Tell our favourite Valkyrie that she's most welcome and I'll be happy to have dinner with her when we rendezvous and hand over the goods.  I'm glad you think differently of me now.  I know it wouldn't be easy for you to not be suspicious of me... and I think I'm sort of happy that you were, shows you were doing your job properly!  To further that I'm going to extend an invitation for you and is it Mr. Lek your Chief Engineer? To color me over and have a look around... we didn't let him or you near our systems last time but I think we can trust each other now.  As for favours... I'll have a think!  Huggin and Muninn send their love, they've got their heads firmly tucked under their wings but they're well fed and comfy. 'Greek Goddess of Magic and Witchcraft' out  =/TB\= [/color]

"I'll pass along your messages." Lahr confirmed to Hecate.  He thought it a bit odd that the Romulan Captain would include him in the invite for dinner, but wasn't about to be rude and decline the offer.  "And thank you ma'am - for the dinner invite.  I look forward to it.   Lieutenant Lek, unfortunately, may not be available at the time of rendezvous."   The Andorian wasn't about to go into detail with the Romulan about the Chief Engineer's personal leave.  Depending on how long the Tal'Bath intended to hang around after the drop off of the twins would indicate if Lek were going to be present.  As it was, the Ferengi was still 12 hours away.

When the call ended, Lahr contacted the Captain with the update.

"ch'Verret to Captain Siggurdsdottir.  Just heard back from the Tal'Bath.  Captain Hecate says 'our favorite Valkyrie is most welcome' and that you are invited to dinner with her when we rendezvous to pick up the twins.  She's also invited myself and Lieutenant Lek to dinner as well and to 'have a look around'.  I didn't think it polite to decline.  I hope that's okay.  Lieutenant Lek has called in and he's little under 12 hrs out."

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

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria]

[Luigi's Pizzeria - Deck 5 - USS Challenger]

Lek rose managed to smile on seeing Helga as he wasn't completely certain that she'd show up. He waited until she was seated before clearing his throat and hoped he didn't make a fool out of himself.

"The ceremony was nice, I especially liked Ba'ku, hard to imagine such a tranquil planet can exist in such a turbulent part of space. I will get right to the point as I know you are on shift. The simple reason I didn't invite you along was I didn't know that was normal for a Hyoomon wedding. It wasn't until I was on my way that I read up on the topic and found out about the term 'plus one', but by that time it was too late to ask.

"Once I discovered that I had probably hurt your feelings, I felt terrible and the only thing I could think to do was to do something personal to show you that I am sorry and that it only happened because Ferengi wedding traditions are simple business transaction, affection is rarely part of the the process. In any case this is what I made."

Lek pulled back the cloth covering the object and inside was a d'k tahg. It was an older design with the side blades simple triangles recessed into the hilt.

"If I'd had the resources, I would have hand forged it, but the replicator on a Type-9 shuttle is not sophisticated enough for that, so I had to replicate each part individually, but I did assemble it by hand though. I know how personal these weapons are to the individual that uses them and there were so many choices in design, that I had to make a couple guesses when I made it, so I chose the most traditional blade I could find."

He picked it up and pressed a button near the hilt and the triangles along the main blade snapped open to reveal the traditional parrying blades common for the weapon.

"I thought this one was best for concealed carry as the side blades retract. I hope that this shows you that I am sorry and how much you mean to me."

He had spoken without pause and now stopped with an expression showing concern that his gesture might not be enough.

Helga's expression began off rather detached as Lek took her literally and began by actually answering her question about the wedding.   She refrained from rolling her eyes at how the Ferengi could miss the sarcasm in her tone.  Despite having known Chief tr'Lhoell briefly, it wasn't her missing the the wedding itself that she was upset at.

She had expected to be invited by - or better yet told by - Lek that she had to go as his girlfriend, his parmaqqay - the Klingon term for romantic companion.  (Helga had tried once to search for the Ferengi term and had been unable to find anything.  The closest she found was the Ferengi term for wife, booplop - whose direct translation was a little unsettling as 'one who serves'.  Helga was no man's servant!)  But whereas she'd waited on Lek to 'last minute' invite her, thinking Lek was perhaps trying to surprise her like his friend had done with his intended, he never did.  She'd come off shift to discover he's already left without inviting her - without even saying goodbye! It hurt.  And it made her feel that what they had meant nothing to him.

While being ignored and treated like a 2nd class citizen to be used for oomox only might work on Ferenginar as a relationship, it didn't work for the Norse-raised Klingon hybrid.  Perhaps it was time she cut her losses and moved on?  All this ran through her mind in the short time it took for Lek to 'get to the point.'

She looked at him doubtfully when he said he'd hadn't known about human weddings and being allowed to bring a 'plus one'.   Oh come on!  She knew he'd seen more than one human made movie... surely one of them must have shown wedding scenes?

When he said he felt terrible, she tried to read his expression to see if that were so.   He had looked miserable when she arrived.  Maybe he wasn't lying?  At his statement that he'd done something personal - made her something - to show her how sorry he was, she glanced to the fabric wrapped object in his hand.   He revealed a d'k tahg.  Her breath caught her in throat as such a gesture.

Helga stared at the blade in awe at so thoughtful a gift then looked back at Lek her doubts of his feelings for her wavering.  He had made this?  For her?  When he went on to say he would have wanted to hand forge it, the last of her anger was swept away.  That was so romantic!

He went silent shortly after explaining his choice for the concealed style of blade.  He looked so nervous as if he wasn't certain this gift was amends enough.  Which was exactly how he should be feeling!  He was lucky she was Federation-raised or she might have used his gift first on him for how poorly he made her feel.  For a moment she considered not reaching out and accepting the blade quite yet.  Maybe she should let him worry a bit more?  But that was a manipulative trick -  not really worthy of a proper Klingon warrior or Starfleet personnel.   Instead, Helga nodded.

"I can see by your expression and by your thoughtful gift - that this was an honest misunderstanding and not something intended to slight me or hurt my feelings.  Thank you for your explanation and apology, Lek."  At this point she did reach out and cover his hand on the hilt of the of the dagger, not yet retrieving it from him but letting him know that the gesture appreciated.  She gave his hand a squeeze before dropping it back down to the table surface between them.  "You should hold onto that until after we finish this conversation." she remarked in only half-jest.  Depending on how this next bit went, it might be best for her not to have a sharp weapon in hand.

Her hazel-brown eyes sought out his.  "Lek, I can see now that you DO obviously care. But when you left... without so much as a goodbye... it had me re-evaluating our relationship.  I don't know much about Ferengi relationship customs, but from what little I've read of it... that's not what I want.   Is what we have more than that? Or am I deluding myself - seeing this as way more than a business-transaction?  Cause dammit Lek, I'm part-human, part-Klingon.  Both cultures put a rather high importance on meaningful relationships.  I want a meaningful relationship, Lek.  I want that with you, but is that what you want?"

2 days later - approaching rendezvous point.
[Tal'Bath - Bridge]

[As NPC Captain Hecate, Arya and Katya Sigurdsdottir]

=/TB\=Huggin and Muninn to Challenger.  The Goddess sends her regards. We are in position, awaiting your instructions.  =/TB\= Arya announced once the Ops officer showed her first how the controls worked and then nodded to say the channel was open.

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

"Acknowledged Tal'Bath.   Please begin transport at your convenience."

[Olivia Briggs]

[Challenger Sickbay - Two Days Later]

Liv was currently sat in the CMO's office, catching up on some much needed paperwork, when she heard Ruth singing through the door. Knowing her friend as she did, she understood that an enforced stay in Sickbay wasn't ideal for anyone, although this was one of those rare times, where she could pull rank, especially after what Ruth had been through. She had been glad to see no friction or tension between her and Will, but even Liv knew that there was no real reason to keep Ruth here any longer.

Everything looked good and besides, it was the near the end of her shift, so it was the least she could do before she left. The last two days had once again been relatively quiet, which was a good thing, but today was something she and Kyle had been looking forward too and that was Elijah's third birthday.

Nothing specific had been planned but it would be nice just to have that time as a family, before their duties resumed. So with that in mind and the data input finished, Liv got up and went out to the main treatment area and more specifically the private bed, where they had moved Ruth too.

" Okay enough singing" she said playfully as she approached Ruth's bed. " You've made yourself heard and good news, you can leave here, as long as you do promise, not to overdo things or I'll have Kyle bring you back whether you comply or not".

Liv was half joking, half serious, but considering her last disappearing act, knew that Kyle wouldn't hesitate to bring her back, if there was any concerns.

[Lek]

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria]

Helga's expression began off rather detached as Lek took her literally and began by actually answering her question about the wedding.   She refrained from rolling her eyes at how the Ferengi could miss the sarcasm in her tone.  Despite having known Chief tr'Lhoell briefly, it wasn't her missing the the wedding itself that she was upset at.

She had expected to be invited by - or better yet told by - Lek that she had to go as his girlfriend, his parmaqqay - the Klingon term for romantic companion.  (Helga had tried once to search for the Ferengi term and had been unable to find anything.  The closest she found was the Ferengi term for wife, booplop - whose direct translation was a little unsettling as 'one who serves'.  Helga was no man's servant!)  But whereas she'd waited on Lek to 'last minute' invite her, thinking Lek was perhaps trying to surprise her like his friend had done with his intended, he never did.  She'd come off shift to discover he's already left without inviting her - without even saying goodbye! It hurt.  And it made her feel that what they had meant nothing to him.

While being ignored and treated like a 2nd class citizen to be used for oomox only might work on Ferenginar as a relationship, it didn't work for the Norse-raised Klingon hybrid.  Perhaps it was time she cut her losses and moved on?  All this ran through her mind in the short time it took for Lek to 'get to the point.'

She looked at him doubtfully when he said he'd hadn't known about human weddings and being allowed to bring a 'plus one'.   Oh come on!  She knew he'd seen more than one human made movie... surely one of them must have shown wedding scenes?

When he said he felt terrible, she tried to read his expression to see if that were so.   He had looked miserable when she arrived.  Maybe he wasn't lying?  At his statement that he'd done something personal - made her something - to show her how sorry he was, she glanced to the fabric wrapped object in his hand.   He revealed a d'k tahg.  Her breath caught her in throat as such a gesture.

Helga stared at the blade in awe at so thoughtful a gift then looked back at Lek her doubts of his feelings for her wavering.  He had made this?  For her?  When he went on to say he would have wanted to hand forge it, the last of her anger was swept away.  That was so romantic!

He went silent shortly after explaining his choice for the concealed style of blade.  He looked so nervous as if he wasn't certain this gift was amends enough.  Which was exactly how he should be feeling!  He was lucky she was Federation-raised or she might have used his gift first on him for how poorly he made her feel.  For a moment she considered not reaching out and accepting the blade quite yet.  Maybe she should let him worry a bit more?  But that was a manipulative trick -  not really worthy of a proper Klingon warrior or Starfleet personnel.   Instead, Helga nodded.

"I can see by your expression and by your thoughtful gift - that this was an honest misunderstanding and not something intended to slight me or hurt my feelings.  Thank you for your explanation and apology, Lek."  At this point she did reach out and cover his hand on the hilt of the of the dagger, not yet retrieving it from him but letting him know that the gesture appreciated.  She gave his hand a squeeze before dropping it back down to the table surface between them.  "You should hold onto that until after we finish this conversation." she remarked in only half-jest.  Depending on how this next bit went, it might be best for her not to have a sharp weapon in hand.

Her hazel-brown eyes sought out his.  "Lek, I can see now that you DO obviously care. But when you left... without so much as a goodbye... it had me re-evaluating our relationship.  I don't know much about Ferengi relationship customs, but from what little I've read of it... that's not what I want.   Is what we have more than that? Or am I deluding myself - seeing this as way more than a business-transaction?  Cause dammit Lek, I'm part-human, part-Klingon.  Both cultures put a rather high importance on meaningful relationships.  I want a meaningful relationship, Lek.  I want that with you, but is that what you want?"

[Luigi's Pizzaria - Deck 5 - USS Challenger]

Lek looked blankly at Helga as her reaction and question were not what he was expecting. He had to think for a moment how to answer her question and the only way that felt right was to tell the truth as he knew it.

"Helga, since it seems you are being open and honest, I will show you the same courtesy in my response. Truth be told, I don't know what I want. From the day I showed up at Starfleet Academy, most people took one look at me and dismissed me as just another profit grubbing Ferengi. I've not had many positive interactions with my peers, let alone with feemales, so I've never pursued any close friendships or relationships.

"How Rayek and I ended up friends is still not clear to me, but as we were both mostly shunned by the crew, we ended up confiding in each other just to have someone to talk to and that, in turn, led to being friends. I only told the captain for obvious reasons, and Giancarlo as he would be in charge while I was gone. As I didn't think you knew Rayek and since our interactions vary so wildly, it simply never occurred to tell you I was leaving.

"I can certainly see why you wouldn't want anything to do with Ferengi relationship customs. Me being willing to accept a clothed feemale with choices and a voice is just another blasphemy along with my choice to join Starfleet was to my people. All that aside, I never thought we'd progress past a dinner or two, but somehow, despite all our differences, we have found something more than that. Now, does that mean it will turn into something deeper, I just don't know, but I'd like to find out."

Lek then stopped talking and hoped that he wouldn't wake up in sickbay for what he'd said. It wasn't romantic or an undying pledge of love and he wasn't sure how Helga would react.

(OOC Post restored due to server outage - ShranLahr ch'Verret)

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

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

Lahr grinned back at the CSO's finger waggle, before turning back to his duties.

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

"I'll pass along your messages." Lahr confirmed to Hecate.  He thought it a bit odd that the Romulan Captain would include him in the invite for dinner, but wasn't about to be rude and decline the offer.  "And thank you ma'am - for the dinner invite.  I look forward to it.   Lieutenant Lek, unfortunately, may not be available at the time of rendezvous."   The Andorian wasn't about to go into detail with the Romulan about the Chief Engineer's personal leave.  Depending on how long the Tal'Bath intended to hang around after the drop off of the twins would indicate if Lek were going to be present.  As it was, the Ferengi was still 12 hours away.

When the call ended, Lahr contacted the Captain with the update.

"ch'Verret to Captain Siggurdsdottir.  Just heard back from the Tal'Bath.  Captain Hecate says 'our favorite Valkyrie is most welcome' and that you are invited to dinner with her when we rendezvous to pick up the twins.  She's also invited myself and Lieutenant Lek to dinner as well and to 'have a look around'.  I didn't think it polite to decline.  I hope that's okay.  Lieutenant Lek has called in and he's little under 12 hrs out."

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

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

"Acknowledged Tal'Bath.   Please begin transport at your convenience."

[Challenger Sickbay - Two Days Later]

Liv was currently sat in the CMO's office, catching up on some much needed paperwork, when she heard Ruth singing through the door. Knowing her friend as she did, she understood that an enforced stay in Sickbay wasn't ideal for anyone, although this was one of those rare times, where she could pull rank, especially after what Ruth had been through. She had been glad to see no friction or tension between her and Will, but even Liv knew that there was no real reason to keep Ruth here any longer.

Everything looked good and besides, it was the near the end of her shift, so it was the least she could do before she left. The last two days had once again been relatively quiet, which was a good thing, but today was something she and Kyle had been looking forward too and that was Elijah's third birthday.

Nothing specific had been planned but it would be nice just to have that time as a family, before their duties resumed. So with that in mind and the data input finished, Liv got up and went out to the main treatment area and more specifically the private bed, where they had moved Ruth too.

" Okay enough singing" she said playfully as she approached Ruth's bed. " You've made yourself heard and good news, you can leave here, as long as you do promise, not to overdo things or I'll have Kyle bring you back whether you comply or not".

Liv was half joking, half serious, but considering her last disappearing act, knew that Kyle wouldn't hesitate to bring her back, if there was any concerns.

[Tal'Bath > Challenger, Transporter Room 1]

[As Hecate and the Siggy Twins Arya and Katya and Ruth]

Hecate had come down to see the Twins off promising to see them soon.  "We'll have dinner together , and I'm sure that in the next few days while we get everyone on the same page regarding the onslaught on Leyton's HQ we'll see each other in meetings, but you can call me any time."

She hugged each of the girls in turn then made sure they were in place.

"See you soon Auntie Hecate!" they said in unison as the lights took them.

[USS Challenger - Sickbay]

"Thank you!" Ruth said with the breathlessness (OOC: think of Princess Mia in Princess Diaries after the dancing lesson when she's allowed to go home!) of someone eager to be somewhere else. She swung her legs off the biobed and raced towards the door, skidded to a halt turned around, raced back and gave Liv a quick hug.

"And I promise.  Though..." she pulled back enough so Liv could see the grin on her face and know that she was only teasing.  "...being manhandled by Kyle sounds like fun!" she winked and ran to the door again saying over her shoulder.  "Gotta go welcome the girls."

Hitting her commbadge (someone had brought her one in the time she'd been in the sickbay) on the run to the turbolift she resisted the temptation to just yell 'FREEEDOM!!!' the second that she hit it but she was the Captain after all.

Sigurdsdottir to ch'Verret.  Thank you Lahr, could you meet me in my Ready Room in say... 20 mins, I'm going to greet the girls then insist that they rest so it'll be once I've dropped them in their temporary quarters.  Also call a meeting of all department heads set up in Holodeck 1... so we can all fit in for the start of Alpha Shift tomorrow. Lt. Litt, and both CMOs to attend, if Mr. Lek isn't back by then have Mr. Gianetti attend please.  Dr. Ryder, and ask the department heads to nominate at least one other person to bring with them from their department too please, this is by way of getting the mission brief out as much as possible and getting ideas from all quarters.  Get the message to Hecate too please.  Extend invitation to any of her departmental heads. Valkyrie is flying again! Captain out.

[Transporter Room 1 > Twins Quarters Deck 2]

Ruth got into the Transporter Room just as the blue lights started to dance.

"Welcome back Captain!" the Transporter Chief said with a smile.

"Thank you, it is nice to be home." she replied.

As the girls stepped off the Transporter pad they ran to their sister.

"Ruth! You came after us!" Arya said hugging her sister tight. "What the hell have you done with your hair?!"

"Auntie Hecate is so COOL!!!" Katya said joining in.

"Let... me... breathe..." Ruth said giggling.  They released their grip and walked towards the turbolift pausing only to thank the Chief.

"Wait... Auntie Hecate?? When did this happen?  I mean it's fine but..."  the Captain enquired.

"She said if her daughters hadn't been killed she thought they'd have grown up rather like us, and the next best thing was to have two kick ass nieces... if you approved." Arya said.

"And we think she's pretty damn awesome, next best to you so please say yes!" Katya begged which was unusual for her.

Ruth grinned and shrugged.  "I'm outnumbered 3 to 1 but of course I approve.  I like Hecate and besides she rescued you.  As for the hair, had an argument with a burning console, it was this or walk around with singed hair for the rest of my life."

"Ah there's some dispute on that, but that's neither here nor there." Katya said with a grin.

"Oh?  Well save it, right now I have to catch up with my crew as Auntie Liv has just let me loose.  I'm sure she or Maggie will want to check you over at some point but I'm sure both she and I will be happy enough if you just rest in your rooms for now, is that ok?" their sister asked.

"Sure,.." Arya said.  "But tell Lahr we love him!"

Ruth gave her a look but couldn't agree more.

"What?!!  He was the one on the comms all the time, we like him anyhow tho!" she clarified.

"I'll see you to your room but then I've got things to do... okay.  And since you've been in on this thing being kidnapped and everything I want you at the meeting tomorrow morning." Ruth said with a smile. "So get some sleep.  30 mins into Alpha Shift."

"Aye Aye Captain!" Arya said as they reached their room.  "And we won't disturb you tonight you have catching up to do if you've been in Sickbay until now but why ... not the hair thing?!"

"Ah... I was silly,.." Ruth said looking sheepish and rubbing a hand round the back of her neck.  It felt weird not having to go under her hair.

"I was worried sick about you and made myself sick not eating, then the hair thing I was slightly burnt on my face and hands... so malnutrition, exhaustion and the burns... they didn't quite tie me to the bed, I slept most of the two days  from we were picked up by the Arkansas." the Captain admitted.

"Naughty sis!" Katya said "...and she wonders where I get it from!"

Arya dragged her twin into their quarters and shook her head playfully.  "She's right you are naughty but we love you, go on, we'll see you tomorrow.  Give our love to Lahr, Uncle Kyle and Will, we'll see anyone else tomorrow."

"See you later girls!  Love ya!"

[Ready Room - 20 mins later]

Ruth almost lovingly caressed her desk.  That was 'home' for her.  Someone had thoughtfully put her axes back on the wall for her so it was like she had never left.  She replicated herself a cup of Waring Blend Coffee (might as well get used to it, she was a Waring after all!) and sat behind her desk.

Sigurdsdottir to Commander Waring and Lt. Briggs.  I'll see you in my Ready Room in about an hour if that's convenient.  I'm free... I've got clearance from Medical so don't worry I haven't liberated myself!  Captain out! 

She thought an hour would be long enough to say what she needed to Lahr, then the 4 of them could discuss the upcoming meeting and what should be on the agenda.  Lahr would probably be punctual seeing as he would have probably noticed her come out of the turbolift through the glass doors to the Bridge.

She sat and waited for Lahr to come in.

[OOC: BRIDGE LAYOUT]

[Kyle Briggs]

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

As usual, Kyle was at his station. They were finally at the rendezvous point and were getting the twins back. Ruth had called the Bridge to say that Sickbay had finally released her and that she was headed to the Transporter Room to meet the girls. He had already set up a couple of cells for the kidnappers and was eager to interrogate them. He knew Leyton had to be behind it but he wanted to hear it. He triggered his consoles comm.

Briggs to Gohun. Report to Lieutenant Bailey in the Brig for Security detail. I'll be down there as soon as possible. Briggs out. 

He was glad the twins were back safe and sound. He still hadn't had a chance to talk with Ruth seeing as she had been on lock down in Sickbay. He still felt a little pissed with her and could only imagine what she and Will had said to each other. He don't know what he would do if Liv had ever pulled some crap like that.

Sigurdsdottir to Commander Waring and Lt. Briggs.  I'll see you in my Ready Room in about an hour if that's convenient.  I'm free... I've got clearance from Medical so don't worry I haven't liberated myself!  Captain out! 

Speaking of..... Kyle thought as he reached for his comm.

Briggs here. I'll be there, Ma'am. 

Direct and to the point. He still wasn't ready for chit chat with her.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NPC Lt Bailey - Brig

Harrison stood at the controls for the brig cells. He had everything set and ready. It came over that the prisoners were ready for transport. A few moments later, there were two human looking females in one cell and a human looking male in the second along with a Nausicaan. Kyle was gonna have a good time with this group. Bailey knew about his anger with the Captain and knew who was gonna get the brunt of it. Harrison allowed himself a grin.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck One - Bridge](two days later - rendezvous with Tal'Bath)

[USS Challenger - Sickbay]

Hitting her commbadge (someone had brought her one in the time she'd been in the sickbay) on the run to the turbolift she resisted the temptation to just yell 'FREEEDOM!!!' the second that she hit it but she was the Captain after all.

Sigurdsdottir to ch'Verret.  Thank you Lahr, could you meet me in my Ready Room in say... 20 mins, I'm going to greet the girls then insist that they rest so it'll be once I've dropped them in their temporary quarters.  Also call a meeting of all department heads set up in Holodeck 1... so we can all fit in for the start of Alpha Shift tomorrow. Lt. Litt, and both CMOs to attend, if Mr. Lek isn't back by then have Mr. Gianetti attend please.  Dr. Ryder, and ask the department heads to nominate at least one other person to bring with them from their department too please, this is by way of getting the mission brief out as much as possible and getting ideas from all quarters.  Get the message to Hecate too please.  Extend invitation to any of her departmental heads. Valkyrie is flying again! Captain out.

Receiving a call from the Captain just moments after hearing from the Tal'Bath was not surprising.  That she wanted to meet with him was.   Despite her offer to visit her in Sickbay, Lahr had kept his distance knowing that the Commander would be present.  While he was glad that the Captain was back and on the mend, he was a little worried about the questions that both the Commander and the Lieutenant Briggs might ask once the Captain was well.

Over the week long search for the Captain, his delaying tactics used at the start and his 'sabotaging' the search efforts had been put down to Ruth since the computer authorizations all tracked back to her authorization.   But now all that could come unraveled and Lahr was more than a little worried about it being discovered that he'd been given the Captain's authorization.  He could be court-martial for impersonating an officer. Since he'd done much more than Ruth had initially ordered.

"Yes, ma'am. Twenty minutes, Ready Room. Got it." he acknowledged the one-on-one.   Then she went on to ask him to arrange for a briefing... in the holodeck?  "Yes, ma'am I'll set that up." is all that he management to respond before she cut the comm line.

Lahr went into the ships calendar and cleared the Holodeck booking.  There would be a couple of upset crewman tomorrow morning but Lahr made it up to them by rescheduling their time and booking them an addition slot at another time of their preference.

From: PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
To: CPO Dradis, Lt Litt,  Lt K. Briggs, Lt Cmdr Waring, Lt Cmdr Wardropper, Lt Lek, Lt Cmdr York, Lt O. Briggs, Ens. Ryder, Cpt Hecate, Cadet A. Siggurdsdottir, Cadet K. Siggurdsdottir
CC: Cpt R. Siggurdsdottir

Re: Mission Brief - Holodeck One - start of Alpha Shift.
Alarm: set 15 minutes prior
Message: The Captain has requested a mission briefing be held tomorrow at the start of Alpha Shift.  This meeting to be held in the Holodeck is for All Department Heads and one alternate as well as specific individuals (Captain Hecate and her senior staff) as called on by the Captain.  The meeting focus will be to discuss options.  Department Heads respond back naming your alternate so I can add them to the 'guest list'.

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

[20 minutes later..]

[Ready Room - 20 mins later]

Ruth almost lovingly caressed her desk.  That was 'home' for her.  Someone had thoughtfully put her axes back on the wall for her so it was like she had never left.  She replicated herself a cup of Waring Blend Coffee (might as well get used to it, she was a Waring after all!) and sat behind her desk.

Sigurdsdottir to Commander Waring and Lt. Briggs.  I'll see you in my Ready Room in about an hour if that's convenient.  I'm free... I've got clearance from Medical so don't worry I haven't liberated myself!  Captain out! 

She thought an hour would be long enough to say what she needed to Lahr, then the 4 of them could discuss the upcoming meeting and what should be on the agenda.  Lahr would probably be punctual seeing as he would have probably noticed her come out of the turbolift through the glass doors to the Bridge.

She sat and waited for Lahr to come in.

As the time approached and his called in replacement arrived, Lahr passed off his station and headed to the side-room door.  He chimed the door and when it opened Lahr stepped inside. The Andorian stood at attention until told otherwise.   "You wished to see me ma'am?  Oh and welcome back. Sorry I didn't come down to Sickbay, but I figured that was best left to your husband."

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

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria](day before Tal'Bath rendezvous)

[Luigi's Pizzaria – Deck 5 – USS Challenger]

Lek looked blankly at Helga as her reaction and question were not what he was expecting. He had to think for a moment how to answer her question and the only way that felt right was to tell the truth as he knew it.

"Helga, since it seems you are being open and honest, I will show you the same courtesy in my response. Truth be told, I don't know what I want. From the day I showed up at Starfleet Academy, most people took one look at me and dismissed me as just another profit grubbing Ferengi. I've not had many positive interactions with my peers, let alone with feemales, so I've never pursued any close friendships or relationships.

"How Rayek and I ended up friends is still not clear to me, but as we were both mostly shunned by the crew, we ended up confiding in each other just to have someone to talk to and that, in turn, led to being friends. I only told the captain for obvious reasons, and Giancarlo as he would be in charge while I was gone. As I didn't think you knew Rayek and since our... interactions very so wildly, it simply never occurred to tell you I was leaving.

"I can certainly see why you wouldn't want anything to do with Ferengi relationship customs. Me being willing to accept a clothed feemale with choices and a voice is just another blasphemy along with my choice to join Starfleet was to my people. All that aside, I never thought we'd progress past a dinner or two, but somehow, despite all our differences, we have found... something more than that. Now, does that mean it will turn into something deeper, I just don't know, but I'd like to find out."

Lek then stopped talking and hoped that he wouldn't wake up in sickbay for what he'd said. It wasn't romantic or an undying pledge of love and he wasn't sure how Helga would react.

When Lek was silent and stared at her blankly for what seemed like a hugely long time, Helga thought she had her answer.  God she was such an idiot! Putting herself out there like that... she should up just told him to pound sand when he suggested this get together.  She wasn't going to ever listen to another Andorian again in her life - they had nothing but BAD advice!

But then Lek started to talk and her building anger and frustration was paused as she listened.  Helga could understand how Lek felt in regards to how others might have viewed him.  She was only half-Klingon and she still got hassled about being in Starfleet from both sides.   Starfleet for all it's talk of equal opportunity among the various cultures and specives was still a very exclusive 'club' - not quite humans only anymore but they were still the predominant component of any mixed species ship.

Lek's explanation of why he didn't tell her fell in line with his earlier reason as to why he didn't invite her.   He just didn't think of it because their ideas of what a relationship was were so vastly different.   And Helga wondered if he was leading up to saying that they were just not compatible.

She frowned, not having realized that his being with her caused him to be looked down on that badly by this own society.   Lek never spoke of his family.  Helga knew nothing about his friends other than what she picked up from Lahr who inferred stuff from things former Chief tr'Lhoell had said.   Her wearing clothes and having a voice of her own was blasphemy?!

When Lek then spoke about how he never thought they'd make it past their first few dates - because of those differences, Helga was a bit bothered by his words.   The first few 'dates'  had been solely 'make-out' sessions - and while that was all good - she had no complaints in that respect.. she needed more than just sex for a relationship to be meaningful.

For her, the turning point she had thought had been when she'd been injured retaking  Innominatum - 9 months ago.  Lek after some initial hesitation on visiting her really seemed to care.  But did he care enough to want more despite their differences?

Helga didn't realize how much her thoughts were causing her to frown, until Lek said he didn't know if their relationship could grow deeper but that he'd like to find out.   She gave a slight gasp of surprise and her frown turned on end to become a wide toothy smile.   She had the urge to leap across the table and smother him with kisses and attention, maybe mark him once more as hers with a 'love bite' in a more discreet location than the traditional cheek.

Because they were in a public place, she refrained and instead just nodded bit in happy amazement.  "I'd like that too.  Perhaps after my shift we can meet again - say at your place? To discuss some negotiable expectations.  Sound good? "

[Olivia Briggs]

[Sickbay - Challenger]

Liv barely had to register the hug and obvious relief from Ruth, before she was out of the door, clearly relishing her new found freedom, now that she had been declared fit for duty. Chuckling slightly at her reaction and her comments regarding Kyle and well, it was a sign of how close they were, when it came to teasing one another about their respective partners.

All that was left to do, was confirm the discharge, then she could go pick up Elijah and prepare for Kyle coming home so they could begin the family celebrations. However before she could do that, a message alert beeped and she quickly opened and read the message.

The Deputy CMO, took in all of the information it contained, thinking she would drop off Elijah a little earlier or failing that leave him with the sitter, so she could be on time. Liv then sent an acknowledgement back along with her choice of who would be accompanying her and Maggie.

From: Lt O Briggs
To: PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
Re: Mission Briefing - Holodeck One - Start of Alpha Shift
Message: Acknowledged and I'll be bringing Nurse Chloe Davis as my alternate.

Liv then sent the message and left a note for Chloe informing her of the briefing, then it was her turn to leave Sickbay.

[Lek]

NPC Crewman Helga Tragnar
[USS Challenger - Deck 5 - Luigi's Pizzeria](day before Tal'Bath rendezvous)

When Lek was silent and stared at her blankly for what seemed like a hugely long time, Helga thought she had her answer.  God she was such an idiot! Putting herself out there like that... she should up just told him to pound sand when he suggested this get together.  She wasn't going to ever listen to another Andorian again in her life - they had nothing but BAD advice!

But then Lek started to talk and her building anger and frustration was paused as she listened.  Helga could understand how Lek felt in regards to how others might have viewed him.  She was only half-Klingon and she still got hassled about being in Starfleet from both sides.   Starfleet for all it's talk of equal opportunity among the various cultures and specives was still a very exclusive 'club' - not quite humans only anymore but they were still the predominant component of any mixed species ship.

Lek's explanation of why he didn't tell her fell in line with his earlier reason as to why he didn't invite her.   He just didn't think of it because their ideas of what a relationship was were so vastly different.   And Helga wondered if he was leading up to saying that they were just not compatible.

She frowned, not having realized that his being with her caused him to be looked down on that badly by this own society.   Lek never spoke of his family.  Helga knew nothing about his friends other than what she picked up from Lahr who inferred stuff from things former Chief tr'Lhoell had said.   Her wearing clothes and having a voice of her own was blasphemy?!

When Lek then spoke about how he never thought they'd make it past their first few dates - because of those differences, Helga was a bit bothered by his words.   The first few 'dates'  had been solely 'make-out' sessions - and while that was all good - she had no complaints in that respect.. she needed more than just sex for a relationship to be meaningful.

For her, the turning point she had thought had been when she'd been injured retaking  Innominatum - 9 months ago.  Lek after some initial hesitation on visiting her really seemed to care.  But did he care enough to want more despite their differences?

Helga didn't realize how much her thoughts were causing her to frown, until Lek said he didn't know if their relationship could grow deeper but that he'd like to find out.   She gave a slight gasp of surprise and her frown turned on end to become a wide toothy smile.   She had the urge to leap across the table and smother him with kisses and attention, maybe mark him once more as hers with a 'love bite' in a more discreet location than the traditional cheek.

Because they were in a public place, she refrained and instead just nodded bit in happy amazement.  "I'd like that too.  Perhaps after my shift we can meet again - say at your place? To discuss some negotiable expectations.  Sound good? "

[Luigi's Pizzeria - Deck 5 - USS Challenger]

When Helga first smiled, an image flashed across his thoughts and in a panic, he thought what he believed would be his last words. "Blessed Exchequer it quick." When she didn't strike, his mouth dropped open involuntarily, despite his efforts to prevent it from doing so, but he did manage to turn his expression into a toothy grin to match Helga's.

"I believe I would enjoy a round of negotiations Helga. Let's say 1900. I have to get to engineering to let Giancarlo know I am back. I hate to use this reference, but the 211th Rule of Acquisition says 'Employees are rungs on the ladder of success. Don't hesitate to step on them.' Not quite a Starfleet sentiment, but I don't want him getting comfortable covering for me."

Lek stood and pushed the d't' tahg closer to Helga and added.

"I'm kidding about Gianetti. See you tonight."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

As usual, Kyle was at his station. They were finally at the rendezvous point and were getting the twins back. Ruth had called the Bridge to say that Sickbay had finally released her and that she was headed to the Transporter Room to meet the girls. He had already set up a couple of cells for the kidnappers and was eager to interrogate them. He knew Leyton had to be behind it but he wanted to hear it. He triggered his consoles comm.

Briggs to Gohun. Report to Lieutenant Bailey in the Brig for Security detail. I'll be down there as soon as possible. Briggs out. 

He was glad the twins were back safe and sound. He still hadn't had a chance to talk with Ruth seeing as she had been on lock down in Sickbay. He still felt a little pissed with her and could only imagine what she and Will had said to each other. He don't know what he would do if Liv had ever pulled some crap like that.

Speaking of..... Kyle thought as he reached for his comm.

Briggs here. I'll be there, Ma'am. 

Direct and to the point. He still wasn't ready for chit chat with her.

[USS Challenger - Ready Room]

Ruth actually raised her eyebrows at Kyle's response.  It wasn't bad, but the fact that he'd not even said 'Welcome Back' told her that he was still angry with her.  OK, she deserved it and she'd cross that bridge when he came to see her later.

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck One - Bridge](two days later - rendezvous with Tal'Bath)

Receiving a call from the Captain just moments after hearing from the Tal'Bath was not surprising.  That she wanted to meet with him was.   Despite her offer to visit her in Sickbay, Lahr had kept his distance knowing that the Commander would be present.  While he was glad that the Captain was back and on the mend, he was a little worried about the questions that both the Commander and the Lieutenant Briggs might ask once the Captain was well.

Over the week long search for the Captain, his delaying tactics used at the start and his 'sabotaging' the search efforts had been put down to Ruth since the computer authorizations all tracked back to her authorization.   But now all that could come unraveled and Lahr was more than a little worried about it being discovered that he'd been given the Captain's authorization.  He could be court-martial for impersonating an officer. Since he'd done much more than Ruth had initially ordered.

"Yes, ma'am. Twenty minutes, Ready Room. Got it." he acknowledged the one-on-one.   Then she went on to ask him to arrange for a briefing... in the holodeck?  "Yes, ma'am I'll set that up." is all that he management to respond before she cut the comm line.

Lahr went into the ships calendar and cleared the Holodeck booking.  There would be a couple of upset crewman tomorrow morning but Lahr made it up to them by rescheduling their time and booking them an addition slot at another time of their preference.

From: PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
To: CPO Dradis, Lt Litt,  Lt K. Briggs, Lt Cmdr Waring, Lt Cmdr Wardropper, Lt Lek, Lt Cmdr York, Lt O. Briggs, Ens. Ryder, Cpt Hecate, Cadet A. Siggurdsdottir, Cadet K. Siggurdsdottir
CC: Cpt R. Siggurdsdottir

Re: Mission Brief - Holodeck One - start of Alpha Shift.
Alarm: set 15 minutes prior
Message: The Captain has requested a mission briefing be held tomorrow at the start of Alpha Shift.  This meeting to be held in the Holodeck is for All Department Heads and one alternate as well as specific individuals (Captain Hecate and her senior staff) as called on by the Captain.  The meeting focus will be to discuss options.  Department Heads respond back naming your alternate so I can add them to the 'guest list'.

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

[20 minutes later..]

As the time approached and his called in replacement arrived, Lahr passed off his station and headed to the side-room door.  He chimed the door and when it opened Lahr stepped inside. The Andorian stood at attention until told otherwise.   "You wished to see me ma'am?  Oh and welcome back. Sorry I didn't come down to Sickbay, but I figured that was best left to your husband."

"Ah Lahr, come in."  Ruth said with a beaming smile.  She waited until the door was shut, and gestured him to the chair in front of her. "Drink?" she asked.

She got herself a refill (and anything Lahr wanted) then slipped back into her own seat.

"I'm glad you haven't commented on the hair.  I'm trying to forget.  I had a fight with a console in the Mjolnir.  It won.  Right first things first.  Thank you my friend, you have been wonderful.  The twins also ask me to pass on their love and thanks.  I couldn't have done it without you.  Whatever you did won't be on your record it will be mine, and look like it came from my pre-set command sets." the Captain gave him a quick grin.

"But how has it been? Has anyone suspected?  And importantly, is everyone requested coming?  Praetor Aedile, the friendly Klingons, the Belfast....??" she asked, mind on being a Captain.  She changed like a lightswitch not wanting the first meeting they had to be all business, she was glad to be back and with one of her 'family' again.

"As for not visiting in Sickbay, it's fine... and yeah... he surprised me.  Will took it a lot better than I thought.  I think actually he was just relieved to have me back... short hair and all!  I think he's still in shock.  Hopefully next month will make up for it!"  she gave a playfully wicked look then elaborated.

"I know I can trust you not to 'blab'... so I'll let you be the first I invite.  I don't know if you're aware but my darling hubby has a massive estate and stately home on Earth.  There are cottages, lodges - of the log cabin style and the 'gamekeepers lodge' style, and places to pitch tents all around the estate, in the woods and so on.  Will's never been to Earth having been born on a starship." the CO paused to take a mouthful of coffee then continued pulling a slight face.

"I suppose I'll get used to this stuff but I still prefer Ratkajino!  This is Will's 'Waring Blend'.  I digress. We haven't as yet had a honeymoon, so as we'll have to take Leyton in and attend hearings, give evidence etc etc, I figured we could couple it with a honeymoon, and a month long R&R for the crew.  You can all do what you like so long as you report back for whatever date I decide later... which will depend heavily on how long they expect the trials to last, but there will be a party, BBQs, fun days out.  You may stay in the manor, or in one of the buildings on the Estate.  Say you'll come... and I'll turn a complete blind eye if you and Chloe want to share!"  Ruth winked, well aware of the budding romance between the pair.

"All that matters is that when we leave Earth, the crew are totally refreshed and ready to go out with whatever our orders might be, and have gotten Leyton totally out of their systems!  Now, I believe I owe you a hug... will you actually allow me to give you one?!" she asked, standing.