ST: Independence 06 "Crimes and Shadows"
- Thread starter Dnoth
- Start date
Looks like a barroom brawl in the making...
Jinal is also beginning to slip a bit--he's been lucky so far, but sooner or later he's going to run into someone who's going to put the little things together...
It's a good idea breaking the tension a bit before getting into the ugliness that is going to be the court-martial where I have a feeling all sorts of unpleasantness is going to come to light.
Looking forward to the next part! Let the mayhem ensue!
Jinal is also beginning to slip a bit--he's been lucky so far, but sooner or later he's going to run into someone who's going to put the little things together...
It's a good idea breaking the tension a bit before getting into the ugliness that is going to be the court-martial where I have a feeling all sorts of unpleasantness is going to come to light.
Looking forward to the next part! Let the mayhem ensue!
^Heh, yeah, seems to have all the makings of a brawl. Interesting little section, with the crew exploring a planet that's shabby not because it's underdeveloped, but because the population likes it that way.
I also liked D'nas' observation of how many in the Federation (especially Starfleet) are so focused on exploring strange new worlds, they tend to ignore the strange worlds already in their midst. Very cool observation. :thumbsup:
Interesting little section, with the crew exploring a planet that's shabby not because it's underdeveloped, but because the population likes it that way. I also liked D'nas' observation of how many in the Federation (especially Starfleet) are so focused on exploring strange new worlds, they tend to ignore the strange worlds already in their midst. Very cool observation. :thumbsup:
Good stuff. I like that your mixing up the storylines here, even if at the moment I much more interested to see what will happen with the court martial, if nothing else this functions as nice little tease.
Hopefully it’ll be more than that however. I like to see who will eventually remain right. Stereotypes are an awful thing but sometimes they are well deserved …
Hopefully it’ll be more than that however. I like to see who will eventually remain right. Stereotypes are an awful thing but sometimes they are well deserved …
CHAPTER 5
Supplemental
Althos IV
Homeworld of the Federation race Bzzit Khaht
One of the first details D’nas noticed were the four narrow fangs coming up from the lower jaw of the Chalnoth. A tooth on one of the individuals had forced its way into the upper lip, creating a hole that the fang slid in and out of when he talked.
The Chalnoth with the disfiguration held his arms out wide, "Welcome, warrior!"
The other alien asked the helmsman in gruff voice, "I've never seen your kind here before. What species are you?"
D’nas sat up tall and proud, "I'm a Child of Tama.” The Chalnoth shared a baffled look. Another term seemed to be in order, “…Tamarian. My name is D'nas. I've been told you are Chalnoth."
“Whoever told you that was right,” confirmed the first Chalnoth. “My name is Apash and this is my partner, Kavak.”
"I'm not surprised you haven't seen my kind,” offered D’nas. “My homeworld is nearly 300 light years away."
Kavak seemed to approve, "Ah, we are also travelers."
"Traders, really," interjected Apash.
The young Tamarian was overjoyed to engage the two in conversation. He took a brief glace at his crewmates and smiled to prove his point. Tang and Jinal still lingered at the bar. Both were wide-eyed. He turned back to his current company, "What do you trade?"
Apash and Kavak regarded each other in silent contemplation. Apash finally shrugged and said in a quieter tone, "Maraji crystals."
"Mar-aji crystals?" repeated D’nas.
Kavak fielded the question as he leaned in closer, "It's a something to help achieve a… spiritual plane."
The Tamarian evenly inquired, "Do you mean a hallucination?"
The two large masses of hair, fang, and leather began shift in their seats, not knowing how to act in response to the observation.
D’nas read the nervousness in the two. To calm them he explained, “Hallucinations are part of Tamarian culture. We often use them in our rituals."
The Chalnoth relaxed a bit. Apash’s tooth slid as he asked, “Would you care for a sample?"
The exchange officer backed off a bit. He began to exercise some level of caution. "Is it a naturally occurring substance?"
“It is,” responded Apash. He reached into a bag next to him. His hand emerged with a small greenish crystal. “Here," he said as he extended his hand to D’nas.
A hand with a distinguished elongated thumb, a characteristic of Tamarians, reached out. D’nas stopped short of touching it. “How is it ingested?"
Kavak answered, "It is most often dissolved in a beverage first. Make sure the liquid is fairly acidic."
Only then did D’nas make contact with the object. "I will; thank you."
The two traders looked very proud of themselves…until the Tamarian began to put it in a small pouch on his belt.
"Try it now," prodded Apash.
D’nas shook his head fervently. “Oh I can’t, any substance we use has to ritually purified.” As he snapped shut the pouch, he added, “And, besides, I'm not sure if this Maraji is compatible with my physiology. I would be foolish to take it without analyzing it."
Apash and Kavak’s expressions soured. “Very well,” grumbled Apash as he nodded slightly at Kavak.
"That is a fine blade,” prompted Kavak. “My I see it?"
D’nas grabbed the handle and unsheathed his blade, “Of course, this is a Betoken of Uzani.”
The dark-green gripped dagger was smooth on one side; the other had two serrations; the blade itself was, ever so slightly, yellow in color. D’nas displayed it to the Chalnoth, but made no attempt to offer it to them.
Kavak examined the knife with genuine curiosity. He broke his gaze only long enough to ask, "Who is Uzani?"
The Tamarian began making some basic movements with his weapon in the air. "A great warrior in our history. He was the first to present his children with a blade at the time when the birds fly."
A type of grunt emanated from Apash.
"At age 10,” elaborated D’nas, “Tamarian males are sent into the wilderness alone and armed only with the Betoken of Uzani."
Apash seemed to approve, "A rite of passage to adulthood."
"Exactly."
Kavak sat up straighter, "So how many enemies have you slain with the blade?"
The Child of Tama laughed at the very notion. "None, the dagger is more ceremonial than anything else. We usually only use it in a ritual where we fight a life-form, which generates a strong electromagnetic field..."
Apash’s wooden chair slammed into the floor as he stood. He pointed at D’nas, “You are no warrior!”
Zian and Jinal jerked in reaction to the sudden movement. “Oh no, here we go,” observed the science officer.
The exchange officer was taken aback but he had the presence of mind to remain seated, so not to appear confrontational, “No, I’m a linguist and a pilot.”
Kavak joined in his partner’s outrage, “We allowed you at our table!”
D’nas suddenly realized his Betoken of Uzani was still out. He quickly placed it back in its sheath. He then slowly got out of his chair with his hands open in a submissive manner. “If you wish me to leave, I will. Sorry for the misunderstanding.”
Apash shouted, “No, draw your blade.” He and Kavak took out their daggers to underscore the seriousness of the situation.
At that point, Lieutenant Jinal and Tang were now abreast of the helm officer.
“He’s not from around here,” offered Tang. “We’ll just get him out of here.” He placed his hand on D’nas’ shoulder and began to move away. Not surprisingly, the Tamarian didn’t resist the clutches of the Asian this time.
“No,” demanded Kavak, “we’ve been deceived and we will have our revenge.”
Jinal’s persona deteriorated slightly, “We… we wouldn’t be worth the trouble.”
Apash grimaced, “It will be no trouble at all.” He headed for Jinal with his blade raised. As a downward thrust began, D’nas plowed his entire body into the Chalnoth; both crashed to the floor.
Kavak moved in. He bent over to attack the Tamarian now on top of his compatriot. Tang, rather ungracefully, jumped on Kavak’s back. The science officer could only hold on as the larger Chalnoth thrashed about to remove the human.
Jinal stood impotent. He wasn’t sure how to react. He watched from light-years away as D’nas and Apash grappled on the floor. D’nas resorted to drawing his dagger to defend himself. The Chalnoth, however, was obviously more competent with a blade. Apash held D’nas’ weapon hand and slashed out with his own. The Tamarian avoided the main blow but a gash was made on his left cheek; a thick, white paste extruding from it.
The engineer looked around long enough to see that most people in the bar now stood watching. All gave the combatants a wide berth. Not even the other Starfleet in the room neared them.
Instead of going for the kill shot, Apash slapped D’nas off him and got up. The Tamarian released his grip on his dagger and rolled several times until a chair occupied by a Grazerite stopped him. The Grazerite made it a point to move away from the brawl.
Jinal then observed Tang flying over a table and onto the floor as well. A feeling started to form in Jinal’s gut. Years of careful training to hide his heritage eroded away as he saw his shipmates lying in agony. He remembered what it was like to be Romulan.
Was the Chalnoth running at him or was he running at the Chalnoth?
Jinal made a frenzy of an attack. Kavak saw the charge at the last moment. Instinctively, he extended his dagger.
Jinal was centimeters from Kavak’s face, but he could get no closer. Why can’t I keep going? He looked down to see a hand next to his stomach. Then he returned his attention to Kavak. Kavak seemed as surprised as he was.
D’nas willed his aching body to move. Apash loomed over him. The Chalnoth deliberately licked a small amount of the white blood from his blade and grinned.
A flash of red-orange light briefly appeared behind the Chalnoth. Apash fell to his knees for a second before the rest of his body succumb to gravity.
D’nas had time to discover the source of the light, a ceiling-mounted phaser unit, before he saw the same beam of energy again.
END OF CHAPTER 5
Supplemental
Althos IV
Homeworld of the Federation race Bzzit Khaht
One of the first details D’nas noticed were the four narrow fangs coming up from the lower jaw of the Chalnoth. A tooth on one of the individuals had forced its way into the upper lip, creating a hole that the fang slid in and out of when he talked.
The Chalnoth with the disfiguration held his arms out wide, "Welcome, warrior!"
The other alien asked the helmsman in gruff voice, "I've never seen your kind here before. What species are you?"
D’nas sat up tall and proud, "I'm a Child of Tama.” The Chalnoth shared a baffled look. Another term seemed to be in order, “…Tamarian. My name is D'nas. I've been told you are Chalnoth."
“Whoever told you that was right,” confirmed the first Chalnoth. “My name is Apash and this is my partner, Kavak.”
"I'm not surprised you haven't seen my kind,” offered D’nas. “My homeworld is nearly 300 light years away."
Kavak seemed to approve, "Ah, we are also travelers."
"Traders, really," interjected Apash.
The young Tamarian was overjoyed to engage the two in conversation. He took a brief glace at his crewmates and smiled to prove his point. Tang and Jinal still lingered at the bar. Both were wide-eyed. He turned back to his current company, "What do you trade?"
Apash and Kavak regarded each other in silent contemplation. Apash finally shrugged and said in a quieter tone, "Maraji crystals."
"Mar-aji crystals?" repeated D’nas.
Kavak fielded the question as he leaned in closer, "It's a something to help achieve a… spiritual plane."
The Tamarian evenly inquired, "Do you mean a hallucination?"
The two large masses of hair, fang, and leather began shift in their seats, not knowing how to act in response to the observation.
D’nas read the nervousness in the two. To calm them he explained, “Hallucinations are part of Tamarian culture. We often use them in our rituals."
The Chalnoth relaxed a bit. Apash’s tooth slid as he asked, “Would you care for a sample?"
The exchange officer backed off a bit. He began to exercise some level of caution. "Is it a naturally occurring substance?"
“It is,” responded Apash. He reached into a bag next to him. His hand emerged with a small greenish crystal. “Here," he said as he extended his hand to D’nas.
A hand with a distinguished elongated thumb, a characteristic of Tamarians, reached out. D’nas stopped short of touching it. “How is it ingested?"
Kavak answered, "It is most often dissolved in a beverage first. Make sure the liquid is fairly acidic."
Only then did D’nas make contact with the object. "I will; thank you."
The two traders looked very proud of themselves…until the Tamarian began to put it in a small pouch on his belt.
"Try it now," prodded Apash.
D’nas shook his head fervently. “Oh I can’t, any substance we use has to ritually purified.” As he snapped shut the pouch, he added, “And, besides, I'm not sure if this Maraji is compatible with my physiology. I would be foolish to take it without analyzing it."
Apash and Kavak’s expressions soured. “Very well,” grumbled Apash as he nodded slightly at Kavak.
"That is a fine blade,” prompted Kavak. “My I see it?"
D’nas grabbed the handle and unsheathed his blade, “Of course, this is a Betoken of Uzani.”
The dark-green gripped dagger was smooth on one side; the other had two serrations; the blade itself was, ever so slightly, yellow in color. D’nas displayed it to the Chalnoth, but made no attempt to offer it to them.
Kavak examined the knife with genuine curiosity. He broke his gaze only long enough to ask, "Who is Uzani?"
The Tamarian began making some basic movements with his weapon in the air. "A great warrior in our history. He was the first to present his children with a blade at the time when the birds fly."
A type of grunt emanated from Apash.
"At age 10,” elaborated D’nas, “Tamarian males are sent into the wilderness alone and armed only with the Betoken of Uzani."
Apash seemed to approve, "A rite of passage to adulthood."
"Exactly."
Kavak sat up straighter, "So how many enemies have you slain with the blade?"
The Child of Tama laughed at the very notion. "None, the dagger is more ceremonial than anything else. We usually only use it in a ritual where we fight a life-form, which generates a strong electromagnetic field..."
Apash’s wooden chair slammed into the floor as he stood. He pointed at D’nas, “You are no warrior!”
Zian and Jinal jerked in reaction to the sudden movement. “Oh no, here we go,” observed the science officer.
The exchange officer was taken aback but he had the presence of mind to remain seated, so not to appear confrontational, “No, I’m a linguist and a pilot.”
Kavak joined in his partner’s outrage, “We allowed you at our table!”
D’nas suddenly realized his Betoken of Uzani was still out. He quickly placed it back in its sheath. He then slowly got out of his chair with his hands open in a submissive manner. “If you wish me to leave, I will. Sorry for the misunderstanding.”
Apash shouted, “No, draw your blade.” He and Kavak took out their daggers to underscore the seriousness of the situation.
At that point, Lieutenant Jinal and Tang were now abreast of the helm officer.
“He’s not from around here,” offered Tang. “We’ll just get him out of here.” He placed his hand on D’nas’ shoulder and began to move away. Not surprisingly, the Tamarian didn’t resist the clutches of the Asian this time.
“No,” demanded Kavak, “we’ve been deceived and we will have our revenge.”
Jinal’s persona deteriorated slightly, “We… we wouldn’t be worth the trouble.”
Apash grimaced, “It will be no trouble at all.” He headed for Jinal with his blade raised. As a downward thrust began, D’nas plowed his entire body into the Chalnoth; both crashed to the floor.
Kavak moved in. He bent over to attack the Tamarian now on top of his compatriot. Tang, rather ungracefully, jumped on Kavak’s back. The science officer could only hold on as the larger Chalnoth thrashed about to remove the human.
Jinal stood impotent. He wasn’t sure how to react. He watched from light-years away as D’nas and Apash grappled on the floor. D’nas resorted to drawing his dagger to defend himself. The Chalnoth, however, was obviously more competent with a blade. Apash held D’nas’ weapon hand and slashed out with his own. The Tamarian avoided the main blow but a gash was made on his left cheek; a thick, white paste extruding from it.
The engineer looked around long enough to see that most people in the bar now stood watching. All gave the combatants a wide berth. Not even the other Starfleet in the room neared them.
Instead of going for the kill shot, Apash slapped D’nas off him and got up. The Tamarian released his grip on his dagger and rolled several times until a chair occupied by a Grazerite stopped him. The Grazerite made it a point to move away from the brawl.
Jinal then observed Tang flying over a table and onto the floor as well. A feeling started to form in Jinal’s gut. Years of careful training to hide his heritage eroded away as he saw his shipmates lying in agony. He remembered what it was like to be Romulan.
Was the Chalnoth running at him or was he running at the Chalnoth?
Jinal made a frenzy of an attack. Kavak saw the charge at the last moment. Instinctively, he extended his dagger.
Jinal was centimeters from Kavak’s face, but he could get no closer. Why can’t I keep going? He looked down to see a hand next to his stomach. Then he returned his attention to Kavak. Kavak seemed as surprised as he was.
D’nas willed his aching body to move. Apash loomed over him. The Chalnoth deliberately licked a small amount of the white blood from his blade and grinned.
A flash of red-orange light briefly appeared behind the Chalnoth. Apash fell to his knees for a second before the rest of his body succumb to gravity.
D’nas had time to discover the source of the light, a ceiling-mounted phaser unit, before he saw the same beam of energy again.
END OF CHAPTER 5
That… was a gnarly fight! Brawling with Chalnoth is definitely hazardous to your health, as D’nas and his friends have just discovered. And, if I'm not mistaken, Jinal just had himself a young Jean-Luc Picard moment, finding himself on the business end of a large, hostile alien's blade.
Oh, and I love the ceiling mounted anti-brawl phasers! That’s a hoot.
Oh, and I love the ceiling mounted anti-brawl phasers! That’s a hoot.
Ouch! This is really going to make Aurelia's day! It's also looking like Jinal might have some embarrassing questions to answer soon...
CHAPTER 6
Stardate: 53244.1 (30 March 2376)
Starbase 17
Courtroom 3, United Federation of Planets v. Windslow
It had been an awkward morning to say the least. Ethan got up, groomed, ate breakfast, and put on his dress uniform without even making eye contact with Susan. She left shortly after he did. Now, she stared at the back of his head in the courtroom. It took what seemed like an eternity for the three judges to enter. One admiral and two captains comprised the court. All stood as they sat. Finally, she would get some answers.
The admiral, a human woman with a hint of copper left in her hair, started things off as she tapped a bell. “These proceedings are now open. The accused has waved his right to a trial by jury.” She regarded Windslow with no malice, “Captain Ethan Windslow, you are accused of: desertion, for leaving the scene of a battle; conduct unbecoming an officer, and impeding an investigation.”
Susan gasped as she covered her mouth. Instinctively, Ethan looked back at her; his face full of embarrassment and shame.
“How do you plead, Captain Windslow?” The question was distant.
Time slowed for Windslow. ‘Was this really happening? …No, there must have been a miscommunication with Ross. What evidence could they have? …I’m a Starfleet officer. I need to tell the truth! Maybe their case is a weak one? I could still get out of this and get a ship again. …Is that what you really want? A ship? …I’m so sorry, Susan…’
The presiding admiral repeated the question. Only the nudge of his counsel, Lieutenant Commander Horlem, an un-joined Trill male, brought him back to focus.
His mouth had become too used to lying. It uttered, “Not guilty, sir,” even as his mind debated.
“Very well,” rejoined the admiral. “Captain, we will…”
The UFP prosecutor, a Zakdorn female, stood. “Admiral Miller, Ethan Windslow was provisionally demoted to the rank of commander on Stardate 52926. I request…”
“For the duration of the investigation,” interrupted the admiral. “I know. That is a decision I do not agree with. That’s a case of punishing an officer before the outcome is known. Besides, the terms of his demotion are no longer relevant. The investigation stage of this process is over. Therefore, I am correct in referring to the defendant as ‘Captain Ethan Windslow.’ Understood, Commander Morichi?”
The Zakdorn’s displeasure at being overruled was evident. Her face contorted as she returned to her seat, “Yes, sir.”
Admiral Miller picked up a small mallet, “We’ll reconvene tomorrow at zero-nine hundred.” She rapped the bell, beginning the nearly twenty-four hour recess.
*****
Captain Aurelia examined the faces in the room to see if she recognized anyone. …No one. She sighed as she slumped in her chair a bit. The room sat about a dozen green captains. They all faced a large, currently blank, viewscreen with a desk in front of it. The background noise of conversation annoyed Sintina since she was not a part of it. Luckily, the presenter started things off punctually.
A tall, skinny man perched himself on the desk in the front of the room. He had five pips on his collar; a fleet captain. Most captains are promoted straight to admiral. Some one in Command must have thought it would be a nice ploy to put the new shipmasters at ease. ‘Nothin’ but us capt’ns here,’ mused Sintina.
“I’m Fleet Captain Wilson. Welcome to day one of the Starfleet Captain’s Course. Don’t worry, there are no exams,” a polite laugh from the crowd followed. Aurelia didn’t join in. “It's really only a bunch of briefings.” He moved to one side of the display, “Let’s jump right in.” The screen came to life, showing the Starfleet emblem. “Our first topic of discussion is resource assessment. You don’t know what you can do until you know what you have…”
Aurelia slummed even lower into her seat. She unenthusiastically prepared herself for the disquisition to follow.
*****
The light was blinding. Where was he? His eyes slowly adjusted to the illumination. A face hovered over his. The blur became recognizable. It was Zian.
“Welcome back,” smiled Tang.
D’nas clumsily sat up, his head throbbing. He wasn’t sure if it was from the beating he took or the phaser blast. “Where are we?”
Tang offered the Tamarian an arm, “In a brig…Thanks for listening to our advice, by the way.”
The ensign looked around, “Where’s Jinal?”
“At a medical center, or so our hosts tell me,” he gestured to the Starfleet guards at a desk beyond the invisible barrier.
Rubbing his temples, D’nas asked, “Does Captain Aurelia know what happened?”
Tang sat next to him on the bench/bed, “Not yet, Bin Nadal’s in charge of the ship. He said the captain and the XO are indisposed.”
“What’s the punishment for getting into an altercation like this?” queried D’nas.
Zian shook his head, “That’s the least of your problems.”
“What do you mean?”
“The guards told us they found a Maraji Crystal on you,” said the science officer.
D’nas innocently confirmed, “Yes, one of the Chalnoth gave it to me.”
Tang stood and flapped his arms wildly, “Ah, D’nas!”
“Why? Is that a problem?”
Zian stooped down, as if addressing a child, “Maraji Crystals are illegal.”
“Oh,” responded the Tamarian with a dull look on his face.
One of the security officers walked up, “I just received word. Your friend is stable in our medical center.”
“What’s going to happen to us?” asked D’nas.
The guard shrugged, “It’s up to your captain and local commanders. Until then, you stay here.”
The Asian science officer plopped down on the bench. He eased himself down and put his arm over his eyes. “I really liked Betazed better.”
END OF CHAPTER 6
Stardate: 53244.1 (30 March 2376)
Starbase 17
Courtroom 3, United Federation of Planets v. Windslow
It had been an awkward morning to say the least. Ethan got up, groomed, ate breakfast, and put on his dress uniform without even making eye contact with Susan. She left shortly after he did. Now, she stared at the back of his head in the courtroom. It took what seemed like an eternity for the three judges to enter. One admiral and two captains comprised the court. All stood as they sat. Finally, she would get some answers.
The admiral, a human woman with a hint of copper left in her hair, started things off as she tapped a bell. “These proceedings are now open. The accused has waved his right to a trial by jury.” She regarded Windslow with no malice, “Captain Ethan Windslow, you are accused of: desertion, for leaving the scene of a battle; conduct unbecoming an officer, and impeding an investigation.”
Susan gasped as she covered her mouth. Instinctively, Ethan looked back at her; his face full of embarrassment and shame.
“How do you plead, Captain Windslow?” The question was distant.
Time slowed for Windslow. ‘Was this really happening? …No, there must have been a miscommunication with Ross. What evidence could they have? …I’m a Starfleet officer. I need to tell the truth! Maybe their case is a weak one? I could still get out of this and get a ship again. …Is that what you really want? A ship? …I’m so sorry, Susan…’
The presiding admiral repeated the question. Only the nudge of his counsel, Lieutenant Commander Horlem, an un-joined Trill male, brought him back to focus.
His mouth had become too used to lying. It uttered, “Not guilty, sir,” even as his mind debated.
“Very well,” rejoined the admiral. “Captain, we will…”
The UFP prosecutor, a Zakdorn female, stood. “Admiral Miller, Ethan Windslow was provisionally demoted to the rank of commander on Stardate 52926. I request…”
“For the duration of the investigation,” interrupted the admiral. “I know. That is a decision I do not agree with. That’s a case of punishing an officer before the outcome is known. Besides, the terms of his demotion are no longer relevant. The investigation stage of this process is over. Therefore, I am correct in referring to the defendant as ‘Captain Ethan Windslow.’ Understood, Commander Morichi?”
The Zakdorn’s displeasure at being overruled was evident. Her face contorted as she returned to her seat, “Yes, sir.”
Admiral Miller picked up a small mallet, “We’ll reconvene tomorrow at zero-nine hundred.” She rapped the bell, beginning the nearly twenty-four hour recess.
*****
Captain Aurelia examined the faces in the room to see if she recognized anyone. …No one. She sighed as she slumped in her chair a bit. The room sat about a dozen green captains. They all faced a large, currently blank, viewscreen with a desk in front of it. The background noise of conversation annoyed Sintina since she was not a part of it. Luckily, the presenter started things off punctually.
A tall, skinny man perched himself on the desk in the front of the room. He had five pips on his collar; a fleet captain. Most captains are promoted straight to admiral. Some one in Command must have thought it would be a nice ploy to put the new shipmasters at ease. ‘Nothin’ but us capt’ns here,’ mused Sintina.
“I’m Fleet Captain Wilson. Welcome to day one of the Starfleet Captain’s Course. Don’t worry, there are no exams,” a polite laugh from the crowd followed. Aurelia didn’t join in. “It's really only a bunch of briefings.” He moved to one side of the display, “Let’s jump right in.” The screen came to life, showing the Starfleet emblem. “Our first topic of discussion is resource assessment. You don’t know what you can do until you know what you have…”
Aurelia slummed even lower into her seat. She unenthusiastically prepared herself for the disquisition to follow.
*****
The light was blinding. Where was he? His eyes slowly adjusted to the illumination. A face hovered over his. The blur became recognizable. It was Zian.
“Welcome back,” smiled Tang.
D’nas clumsily sat up, his head throbbing. He wasn’t sure if it was from the beating he took or the phaser blast. “Where are we?”
Tang offered the Tamarian an arm, “In a brig…Thanks for listening to our advice, by the way.”
The ensign looked around, “Where’s Jinal?”
“At a medical center, or so our hosts tell me,” he gestured to the Starfleet guards at a desk beyond the invisible barrier.
Rubbing his temples, D’nas asked, “Does Captain Aurelia know what happened?”
Tang sat next to him on the bench/bed, “Not yet, Bin Nadal’s in charge of the ship. He said the captain and the XO are indisposed.”
“What’s the punishment for getting into an altercation like this?” queried D’nas.
Zian shook his head, “That’s the least of your problems.”
“What do you mean?”
“The guards told us they found a Maraji Crystal on you,” said the science officer.
D’nas innocently confirmed, “Yes, one of the Chalnoth gave it to me.”
Tang stood and flapped his arms wildly, “Ah, D’nas!”
“Why? Is that a problem?”
Zian stooped down, as if addressing a child, “Maraji Crystals are illegal.”
“Oh,” responded the Tamarian with a dull look on his face.
One of the security officers walked up, “I just received word. Your friend is stable in our medical center.”
“What’s going to happen to us?” asked D’nas.
The guard shrugged, “It’s up to your captain and local commanders. Until then, you stay here.”
The Asian science officer plopped down on the bench. He eased himself down and put his arm over his eyes. “I really liked Betazed better.”
END OF CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 7
Supplemental
Starbase 17
Medical Center
Counselor Kimula guided the children to several empty chairs in the waiting room as Zo’Kama walked up to the receptionist.
“Sit here,” instructed the Andorian. She didn’t wait to see the kids comply. Instead she joined the doctor.
The three children; Zo’Kala, Jeff, and Paul sat in silence for several seconds. Paul and Jeff hadn’t yet interacted much with the reptilians. They spent most of their time playing games by themselves. Doctor Zo’Kama attempted to lighten the mood, but decided to give the mammals their space until they were more comfortable. Zo’Kala, the adolescent Arkonian female remained isolated in her room. …Until the call came from Bin Nadal.
Zo’Kala broke the sullenness, “So where are your parents anyway?”
Jeff, the eldest boy, fielded the question, “In court. Mom said, someone thinks dad broke the law.”
“What law?” asked the bright green reptile. She shed her skin only a few weeks ago.
He twiddled with his thumbs, “I don’t know.”
“Do you think he murdered someone?” pressed Zo’Kala.
The rudeness of the inquiry didn’t seem to affect Jeff. “I don’t know.”
Paul, however, looked distressed and began to fidget.
Zo’Kala was unintentionally relentless, “Do you think he’ll go to prison?”
Paul’s eyes began to water. Jeff remained stoic as he replied, “I don’t care. I haven’t seen him much since I was little. And I don’t like him much since the war.”
“You don’t like your own life-giver?” questioned the Arkonian.
“Not really,” answered the twelve year old.
Paul could contain himself no longer, “Stop saying that! Stop being mean to dad.”
The older brother dismissed his demand, “You don’t even know him.”
“Yes I do!” loudly retorted the younger boy.
It was enough to gain Kimula’s attention. Normally, she would have delved more deeply into the altercation, but not now. “Kids, shhh! We’re looking in on a friend. We need you to be quite.”
Jeff protested under his breath, “He’s not my friend.”
*****
A few minutes later Kimula found herself next to a biobed bearing Jinal. Zo’Kama would join her shortly. The doctor seemed eager to track down the physician that treated the Independence’s chief engineer.
Jinal was conscious, but groggy. Kimula immediately took his left hand in hers as she reached his bedside. She smiled, “I was worried about you. How are you feeling, pink skin?”
“I’m…” began Jinal. His mind gathered. He remembered, albeit vaguely, his actions before he was brought here. ‘An infirmary… Did the doctors discover he was a Romulan? Did Tang or D’nas see him lose character? How much did they know?’ Finally, he reasoned there would be nothing lost if he continued the deception for now. “I’m incapable of feel…”
“I know Vulcans better than that, Jinal. Andorians used to make war with your kind, remember?” inserted the counselor.
She called him a Vulcan. His anxiety dimmed somewhat, but he wasn’t out of the woods, yet. “I’m fatigued,” offered Jinal. It was only then that he realized the contact she was making. Neither withdrew from the touch as Jinal nervously surveyed the three inter-mixed hands.
“I suppose this incident won’t encourage you to socialize more,” bantered Kimula.
He looked up from the embrace, “I would guess not.”
“It occurs to me,” recalled the Andorian, “we’ve been serving together for nearly two years and we know very little about each other.”
‘What was she getting at?,’ worried the mock Vulcan.
“I’m sure I couldn’t offer much competition, but would you like to play kal-toh with me sometime?”
‘He was terrible at the game. Was she trying to test him?’ “Perhaps,” was all he could manage.
*****
“Did you happen to run a cytological screening?” asked Zo’Kama. She regretted being so blunt, but subtlety had not yielded her the results she was looking for.
The physician, a relatively young human male, shot her a puzzled look, “For that wound? Why would I need to? The knife cut through the rectus abdominis and punctured both intestine; pretty simple surgery.”
“So there was no need for an infusion?” prodded the Arkonian.
“No, the patient got treatment less than a minute after the trauma. The blood loss was minimal,” explained the doctor. “In fact, he’s taking up valuable bed space. I’m transferring him to Security as soon as I get a chance.”
Zo’Kama smiled, exposing a mouth full of incisors. “Thank you for your time, doctor.”
*****
Jinal inspected Zo’Kama for any hints of gloom as she walked up to the biobed. The reptilian must have seen the dread in his eyes, because she began to speak from several meters away.
“I have good news, Jinal. There were no complications during your treatment.”
The Romulan immediately took her meaning as his burden was once again renewed.
“However,” continued the doctor, “the next time we visit, you’ll be in a holding cell.”
“From what Jinal’s told me,” said Kimula, “those Chalnoth are the ones who are going to have an extended stay in jail. You, D’nas, and Tang should be out once the captain is out of that briefing.” She grinned, “Then I can whip you in kal-toh.”
Jinal upcast an eyebrow for several reasons.
*****
The newly minted captains flowed out of the classroom like water from a ruptured dam. Aurelia made her way out of the flood. The eight hours of briefs had been tedious: ship functions, personnel management, conflict resolution, first contact procedures, proper documentation…
She wanted nothing more than to go back to the Indy, take off her boots, and listen to music. Sintina only made it about twenty paces before her compin chirped. She rolled her head as she tapped it, “Aurelia.”
“Captain,” reported Bin Nadal, “you might want to swing by the Starbase’s brig before you come back.”
“Hhhggg,” vocalized Sintina.
"Ma’am?"
Her tone telegraphed her mood, “Who?”
Bin Nadal came back with some hint of regret and sympathy in his voice, “Jinal, Tang, and D’nas.”
Her casual walk became movement with a purpose, “Understood, Aurelia out.”
END OF CHAPTER 7
Supplemental
Starbase 17
Medical Center
Counselor Kimula guided the children to several empty chairs in the waiting room as Zo’Kama walked up to the receptionist.
“Sit here,” instructed the Andorian. She didn’t wait to see the kids comply. Instead she joined the doctor.
The three children; Zo’Kala, Jeff, and Paul sat in silence for several seconds. Paul and Jeff hadn’t yet interacted much with the reptilians. They spent most of their time playing games by themselves. Doctor Zo’Kama attempted to lighten the mood, but decided to give the mammals their space until they were more comfortable. Zo’Kala, the adolescent Arkonian female remained isolated in her room. …Until the call came from Bin Nadal.
Zo’Kala broke the sullenness, “So where are your parents anyway?”
Jeff, the eldest boy, fielded the question, “In court. Mom said, someone thinks dad broke the law.”
“What law?” asked the bright green reptile. She shed her skin only a few weeks ago.
He twiddled with his thumbs, “I don’t know.”
“Do you think he murdered someone?” pressed Zo’Kala.
The rudeness of the inquiry didn’t seem to affect Jeff. “I don’t know.”
Paul, however, looked distressed and began to fidget.
Zo’Kala was unintentionally relentless, “Do you think he’ll go to prison?”
Paul’s eyes began to water. Jeff remained stoic as he replied, “I don’t care. I haven’t seen him much since I was little. And I don’t like him much since the war.”
“You don’t like your own life-giver?” questioned the Arkonian.
“Not really,” answered the twelve year old.
Paul could contain himself no longer, “Stop saying that! Stop being mean to dad.”
The older brother dismissed his demand, “You don’t even know him.”
“Yes I do!” loudly retorted the younger boy.
It was enough to gain Kimula’s attention. Normally, she would have delved more deeply into the altercation, but not now. “Kids, shhh! We’re looking in on a friend. We need you to be quite.”
Jeff protested under his breath, “He’s not my friend.”
*****
A few minutes later Kimula found herself next to a biobed bearing Jinal. Zo’Kama would join her shortly. The doctor seemed eager to track down the physician that treated the Independence’s chief engineer.
Jinal was conscious, but groggy. Kimula immediately took his left hand in hers as she reached his bedside. She smiled, “I was worried about you. How are you feeling, pink skin?”
“I’m…” began Jinal. His mind gathered. He remembered, albeit vaguely, his actions before he was brought here. ‘An infirmary… Did the doctors discover he was a Romulan? Did Tang or D’nas see him lose character? How much did they know?’ Finally, he reasoned there would be nothing lost if he continued the deception for now. “I’m incapable of feel…”
“I know Vulcans better than that, Jinal. Andorians used to make war with your kind, remember?” inserted the counselor.
She called him a Vulcan. His anxiety dimmed somewhat, but he wasn’t out of the woods, yet. “I’m fatigued,” offered Jinal. It was only then that he realized the contact she was making. Neither withdrew from the touch as Jinal nervously surveyed the three inter-mixed hands.
“I suppose this incident won’t encourage you to socialize more,” bantered Kimula.
He looked up from the embrace, “I would guess not.”
“It occurs to me,” recalled the Andorian, “we’ve been serving together for nearly two years and we know very little about each other.”
‘What was she getting at?,’ worried the mock Vulcan.
“I’m sure I couldn’t offer much competition, but would you like to play kal-toh with me sometime?”
‘He was terrible at the game. Was she trying to test him?’ “Perhaps,” was all he could manage.
*****
“Did you happen to run a cytological screening?” asked Zo’Kama. She regretted being so blunt, but subtlety had not yielded her the results she was looking for.
The physician, a relatively young human male, shot her a puzzled look, “For that wound? Why would I need to? The knife cut through the rectus abdominis and punctured both intestine; pretty simple surgery.”
“So there was no need for an infusion?” prodded the Arkonian.
“No, the patient got treatment less than a minute after the trauma. The blood loss was minimal,” explained the doctor. “In fact, he’s taking up valuable bed space. I’m transferring him to Security as soon as I get a chance.”
Zo’Kama smiled, exposing a mouth full of incisors. “Thank you for your time, doctor.”
*****
Jinal inspected Zo’Kama for any hints of gloom as she walked up to the biobed. The reptilian must have seen the dread in his eyes, because she began to speak from several meters away.
“I have good news, Jinal. There were no complications during your treatment.”
The Romulan immediately took her meaning as his burden was once again renewed.
“However,” continued the doctor, “the next time we visit, you’ll be in a holding cell.”
“From what Jinal’s told me,” said Kimula, “those Chalnoth are the ones who are going to have an extended stay in jail. You, D’nas, and Tang should be out once the captain is out of that briefing.” She grinned, “Then I can whip you in kal-toh.”
Jinal upcast an eyebrow for several reasons.
*****
The newly minted captains flowed out of the classroom like water from a ruptured dam. Aurelia made her way out of the flood. The eight hours of briefs had been tedious: ship functions, personnel management, conflict resolution, first contact procedures, proper documentation…
She wanted nothing more than to go back to the Indy, take off her boots, and listen to music. Sintina only made it about twenty paces before her compin chirped. She rolled her head as she tapped it, “Aurelia.”
“Captain,” reported Bin Nadal, “you might want to swing by the Starbase’s brig before you come back.”
“Hhhggg,” vocalized Sintina.
"Ma’am?"
Her tone telegraphed her mood, “Who?”
Bin Nadal came back with some hint of regret and sympathy in his voice, “Jinal, Tang, and D’nas.”
Her casual walk became movement with a purpose, “Understood, Aurelia out.”
END OF CHAPTER 7
Ah, the call every captain loves to receive! Hey, stop by the lockup and collect your brawling crewmen. 
And after eight hours of scintillating leadership briefs brought to you by Starfleet Command, the people behind such hits as Wolf 359 and the Massacre of the 7th Fleet at the Tyra system!
And Windslow’s in his own, slow motion version of hell. I’m very interested to see how this turns out for him.
And after eight hours of scintillating leadership briefs brought to you by Starfleet Command, the people behind such hits as Wolf 359 and the Massacre of the 7th Fleet at the Tyra system!And Windslow’s in his own, slow motion version of hell. I’m very interested to see how this turns out for him.
I'll bet none of her briefs covered picking up drunk and disorderly crewmen--Aurelia should touch base with Shelby on that.
Windslow is catching it on all fronts: his career...his family...it's all on the line. At least Admiral Miller seems determined that he get a fair hearing.
Windslow is catching it on all fronts: his career...his family...it's all on the line. At least Admiral Miller seems determined that he get a fair hearing.
CHAPTER 8
Supplemental
USS Independence
Executive Officer’s Office, Deck 2
For nearly an hour, Ethan attempted to hail Ross. His efforts were meant only with failure. The codes and frequencies had obviously been changed. He slammed his fists on the desk, “Bastard!”
Rage mutated into regret and self-loathing. His eyes began to water. He was about ready to lay his head down and sob when the door chime went off. Windslow recovered as best he could. It took at least three tolls. He gathered enough composure, “Enter.”
He was not pleased when his wife, Susan, rushed in. She didn’t seem mad or disappointed. As a matter a fact, she was energized.
“Don’t worry, we’ll fight this. I know you couldn’t have done those things.” She moved behind his chair and hugged him. “I understand why you didn’t want us to know. But you said you didn’t do it, and I believe you.”
The show of trust was a kick in the gut for Ethan. He gently worked his way out of her embrace. “The trial isn’t over.”
The lack of affection disappointed her, but she continued, “No, but the judge seems fair. What do you think of your counsel?”
Ethan had to show no emotions. If he didn’t bury them now, he would break down. “I love you, but I want to be alone right now.”
Susan grudgingly made her way to the exit. She paused and turned, “You’ve chosen to be alone ever since we got on this ship. It doesn’t seem to be helping.” She didn’t linger for a response. The hatch closed.
Ethan hung his head. He examined the face staring back at him in the black glass surface of this desk.
*****
The trio of Jinal, D’nas, and Tang lay silent on three sides of the small holding cell. All that they wanted to say to each other had been said hours ago. Luckily for Jinal, Tang and D’nas were too dazed to notice his ill-fated rush last night. There was only the minor hum of the forcefield now.
Footfalls; someone was coming. The three shared glances; knowing what was to come. Captain Aurelia came within centimeters of the barrier. The prisoners all stood.
After explaining their version of events, the captain asked, “What the hell where you three thinking?”
D’nas attempted to answer the question, “Captain…”
“Stow it!” snapped Sintina.
The order didn’t quite make sense to D’nas, but he understood enough to comply.
“All I wanted,” continued Sintina, “was to go back to my quarters after a long and boring briefing, and now I have to deal with this situation.”
Tang offered a genuine, “We’re sorry, captain.”
Aurelia rejoined, “I don’t really give a damn if you are or not. I’ll tell you this, you will regret it.” She turned to the chief of the facility, “Who do I have to talk to in order to get them out of here and back on my ship?”
“You'd have to talk to Admiral Nechayev, sir,” reported the chief.
The captain turned back to the group, her tone was serious, “And that’s going to cost you more…I hate talking to admirals.”
The three had no immediate response, except to look pathetic.
She stepped closer making eye contact with Jinal and Tang, “Why did you let him sit with the Chalnoth, anyway?”
Zian exhaled as he examined the floor and Jinal blinked several times.
Sintina walked away without an answer. Just before she exited the brig, she could be heard mumbling, “…didn’t even win.”
*****
Fleet Admiral Alynna Nechayev stood next to a display set into the bulkhead. It appeared to be a map of the sector. She examined it as she took notes on a padd. The entrance indicator sounded. She checked the chronometer on her desk…17:27, “Right on schedule.” The admiral lowered the padd and faced the door, “Enter.”
Sintina stepped in, “Sir, I’m Captain Aurelia of the Independence, may I have a moment?”
“I was about ready to leave my office,” stated the admiral, “you’re lucky you caught me. What is it?”
The captain summoned her most humble voice, “Sir, I have a few officers in the brig and I was won….”
Nechayev cut in, “Oh yes, I read the criminal activity report: two lieutenants for disorderly conduct and an exchange officer from Tamar for the same and possession of a controlled substance.”
“What the report doesn’t include,” added Sintina, “was the fight was instigated by the two Chalnoth involved. As far as D’nas and the drug, he was unaware it was illegal.”
Nechayev put the padd on the table and stepped closer, “According to witnesses, this D’nas displayed his weapon before the Chalnoth did. The Chalnoth claim your officer demanded they give him Maraji Crystals. He then threatened them when they didn’t have any. When they rose to defend themselves, the other two officers jumped them.”
Without thinking, Aurelia burst, “And you believe them?”
“Watch your tone, captain,” snapped Nechayev. She quickly returned to a more civil voice, “I have no reason not the believe them. None of the witnesses actually heard the conversation before the attack happened.”
“So you’re going to take their word over Starfleet officers?”
“Tang and Jinal admit they didn’t hear the conversation either,” countered the admiral. “And as for the Tamarian, we know so little about their culture. It’s possible fighting and drug use is common.”
Aurelia clasped her hands tightly behind her back; it was all she could do to maintain her professionalism. “I’ve seen no indication of that, sir.”
“I have no desire to see this happen to your crew, either captain,” offered Nechayev. “But I have to follow procedure and the law. All the evidence I have says the Chalnoth are the victims here. I’ll have to let them go and punish your officers under the Code of Starfleet Justice.”
Under a clinched jaw, Sintina spoke, “Sir, this is ridiculous. Obviously, the Chalnoth are lying.”
“I have to follow the rules, just like you,” said the admiral. “I’m sympathetic, but there’s nothing we can do. Dismissed.”
The captain paused for a moment, but then smartly turned and walked out. Several steps into the corridor, she activated her combadge, “Aurelia to Independence.”
Independence, here.
“Bin Nadal,” ordered Sintina as she walked, “I need you to do some digging.”
“I’m already on it.”
Aurelia smiled. ‘He might have some crazy ideas, but the man knows how to investigate.’
END OF CHAPTER 8
Supplemental
USS Independence
Executive Officer’s Office, Deck 2
For nearly an hour, Ethan attempted to hail Ross. His efforts were meant only with failure. The codes and frequencies had obviously been changed. He slammed his fists on the desk, “Bastard!”
Rage mutated into regret and self-loathing. His eyes began to water. He was about ready to lay his head down and sob when the door chime went off. Windslow recovered as best he could. It took at least three tolls. He gathered enough composure, “Enter.”
He was not pleased when his wife, Susan, rushed in. She didn’t seem mad or disappointed. As a matter a fact, she was energized.
“Don’t worry, we’ll fight this. I know you couldn’t have done those things.” She moved behind his chair and hugged him. “I understand why you didn’t want us to know. But you said you didn’t do it, and I believe you.”
The show of trust was a kick in the gut for Ethan. He gently worked his way out of her embrace. “The trial isn’t over.”
The lack of affection disappointed her, but she continued, “No, but the judge seems fair. What do you think of your counsel?”
Ethan had to show no emotions. If he didn’t bury them now, he would break down. “I love you, but I want to be alone right now.”
Susan grudgingly made her way to the exit. She paused and turned, “You’ve chosen to be alone ever since we got on this ship. It doesn’t seem to be helping.” She didn’t linger for a response. The hatch closed.
Ethan hung his head. He examined the face staring back at him in the black glass surface of this desk.
*****
The trio of Jinal, D’nas, and Tang lay silent on three sides of the small holding cell. All that they wanted to say to each other had been said hours ago. Luckily for Jinal, Tang and D’nas were too dazed to notice his ill-fated rush last night. There was only the minor hum of the forcefield now.
Footfalls; someone was coming. The three shared glances; knowing what was to come. Captain Aurelia came within centimeters of the barrier. The prisoners all stood.
After explaining their version of events, the captain asked, “What the hell where you three thinking?”
D’nas attempted to answer the question, “Captain…”
“Stow it!” snapped Sintina.
The order didn’t quite make sense to D’nas, but he understood enough to comply.
“All I wanted,” continued Sintina, “was to go back to my quarters after a long and boring briefing, and now I have to deal with this situation.”
Tang offered a genuine, “We’re sorry, captain.”
Aurelia rejoined, “I don’t really give a damn if you are or not. I’ll tell you this, you will regret it.” She turned to the chief of the facility, “Who do I have to talk to in order to get them out of here and back on my ship?”
“You'd have to talk to Admiral Nechayev, sir,” reported the chief.
The captain turned back to the group, her tone was serious, “And that’s going to cost you more…I hate talking to admirals.”
The three had no immediate response, except to look pathetic.
She stepped closer making eye contact with Jinal and Tang, “Why did you let him sit with the Chalnoth, anyway?”
Zian exhaled as he examined the floor and Jinal blinked several times.
Sintina walked away without an answer. Just before she exited the brig, she could be heard mumbling, “…didn’t even win.”
*****
Fleet Admiral Alynna Nechayev stood next to a display set into the bulkhead. It appeared to be a map of the sector. She examined it as she took notes on a padd. The entrance indicator sounded. She checked the chronometer on her desk…17:27, “Right on schedule.” The admiral lowered the padd and faced the door, “Enter.”
Sintina stepped in, “Sir, I’m Captain Aurelia of the Independence, may I have a moment?”
“I was about ready to leave my office,” stated the admiral, “you’re lucky you caught me. What is it?”
The captain summoned her most humble voice, “Sir, I have a few officers in the brig and I was won….”
Nechayev cut in, “Oh yes, I read the criminal activity report: two lieutenants for disorderly conduct and an exchange officer from Tamar for the same and possession of a controlled substance.”
“What the report doesn’t include,” added Sintina, “was the fight was instigated by the two Chalnoth involved. As far as D’nas and the drug, he was unaware it was illegal.”
Nechayev put the padd on the table and stepped closer, “According to witnesses, this D’nas displayed his weapon before the Chalnoth did. The Chalnoth claim your officer demanded they give him Maraji Crystals. He then threatened them when they didn’t have any. When they rose to defend themselves, the other two officers jumped them.”
Without thinking, Aurelia burst, “And you believe them?”
“Watch your tone, captain,” snapped Nechayev. She quickly returned to a more civil voice, “I have no reason not the believe them. None of the witnesses actually heard the conversation before the attack happened.”
“So you’re going to take their word over Starfleet officers?”
“Tang and Jinal admit they didn’t hear the conversation either,” countered the admiral. “And as for the Tamarian, we know so little about their culture. It’s possible fighting and drug use is common.”
Aurelia clasped her hands tightly behind her back; it was all she could do to maintain her professionalism. “I’ve seen no indication of that, sir.”
“I have no desire to see this happen to your crew, either captain,” offered Nechayev. “But I have to follow procedure and the law. All the evidence I have says the Chalnoth are the victims here. I’ll have to let them go and punish your officers under the Code of Starfleet Justice.”
Under a clinched jaw, Sintina spoke, “Sir, this is ridiculous. Obviously, the Chalnoth are lying.”
“I have to follow the rules, just like you,” said the admiral. “I’m sympathetic, but there’s nothing we can do. Dismissed.”
The captain paused for a moment, but then smartly turned and walked out. Several steps into the corridor, she activated her combadge, “Aurelia to Independence.”
Independence, here.
“Bin Nadal,” ordered Sintina as she walked, “I need you to do some digging.”
“I’m already on it.”
Aurelia smiled. ‘He might have some crazy ideas, but the man knows how to investigate.’
END OF CHAPTER 8
Yep, Windslow looks like he's going to be the scapegoat.
And I loved how Captain Aurelia asked, “What the hell where you three thinking?”
D’nas attempted to answer the question, “Captain…”
“Stow it!” snapped Sintina.
In other words, When I want an answer from you, mister, I'll give you one!
Priceless!
I really felt for the young captain - hours of boring lectures, having to attempt to bail out her three officers (who didn't even win the fight! ) and having to go hat in hand to Admiral Nechayev. Talk about a bad day!
Really enjoying this! :thumbsup:
And I loved how Captain Aurelia asked, “What the hell where you three thinking?”
D’nas attempted to answer the question, “Captain…”
“Stow it!” snapped Sintina.
In other words, When I want an answer from you, mister, I'll give you one!
Priceless! I really felt for the young captain - hours of boring lectures, having to attempt to bail out her three officers (who didn't even win the fight! ) and having to go hat in hand to Admiral Nechayev. Talk about a bad day!
Really enjoying this! :thumbsup:
Looks like Windslow's neck deep and sinking, and I'm rather surprised Sintina held her tongue in the admiral's office. She's learning, by god! 
This is definitely a bad day for the captain and crew of the Independence. Nechayev has something up her sleeve here--Sintina is going to have to pay a price to get her officers out of this jam. And poor Windslow--he's going down the skids fast--soon, he's going to lose everything.
Fine, I take it back. This B-plot is much more than just bit of a tease. It’s actually really interesting and I’m eager to find out how Aurelia will deal with this situation.
I find that you handle even the smallest scenes with a terrific sense of timing and believability. I always find it difficult to try and write children but the segment with the Winslow kids was really well done.
I find that you handle even the smallest scenes with a terrific sense of timing and believability. I always find it difficult to try and write children but the segment with the Winslow kids was really well done.
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