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::Beth smiles equally as sweet at Stephanie:: Oh yes. That is my darling
daughter.

::Random clears her throat:: Ma'am. The Captain asked me to check you out.

::Beth cringes at the word Ma'am:: I am fine but go ahead and do your scans

::Rick walks in the next room. After his escapade on the Cardassian ship, he
would like to change as well::

::Beth looks at Stephanie:: What did you two have to say to each other?

::Stephanie just shrugs her shoulders:: Oh just small talk.

I see. ::Beth sighs as Random scans her:: I didn't mean to come across so
strong.

Yeah well you're under a lot of stress.

It is just that so much has happened since we boarded. ::Beth pauses:: I
had wanted to just sit and talk this all out and get your opinion on it.

I have no opinion. I'm not sure on anything.

::Random looks at Beth:: Counselor did you know that you are pregnant?

::Stephanie smacks her head:: Duh.

::Beth nods:: Yes I did. Thank you.

::Stephanie bites her bottom lip forgetting its cut::

Well since we are ... ::Beth tries to phrase her words carefully:: Since we
are going to be on the Hermes for a while, this will give us all a chance to
take our time and decide.

::Stephanie's mind starts to wander. She wonders how Steve is doing. She
really isn't even listening to Beth. She starts to remember their date::

::Beth stops for a moment when she hears Stephanie's thoughts:: Steve? Who
is Steve?

What? ::Stephanie looks at Beth and then realizes that she heard her
thoughts:: He's a friend, and don't do that.

Steve. ::Beth doesn't read any more Stephanie's thoughts, she just recalls
the ones that she heard:: You were thinking about him on a .. What !?! You
were on a date?

Don't read my thoughts, and we're friends, nothing more ::Stephanie lies.
SHe looks around the room for the rose the he brought her, wondering if Beth
saw it. She notices that it is siting on the table behind Beth::

I wasn't even trying. They practically screamed out to me. It was like that
was all that was on your mind at that moment.

::Stephanie eyes the rose in a vase on table:: We're just friends.. that's
all.

::Random finishes her check and gives Beth a hypo:: Counselor I would like
to see you in sickbay when you have a moment. I would like to run a couple
of tests. ::She wishes that she could get out before any fighting starts.
She can feel the tension between the two::

::Beth doesn't believe Stephanie, but after their previous arguments she
decides to just let it drop for now:: So you have made any other new
"friends" since I left?

::Stephanie smiles a bit:: Yeah.

::Beth nods to Random:: I will try to make it to sickbay as soon as I can.

::Random nods and takes her leave::

::Rick finishes changing and re-enters the main room::

::Beth sees Rick enter the room again:: Rick ... What if they want you to
stay? ::Beth looks at Stephanie and then back to Rick for an answer::

::Stephanie is curious:: Would you get your old quarters back Semino?

::Rick looks at her ... not sure what to say but knows inside what the answer
probably is. He just stares at her::

::Beth doesn't have to hear the words audibly because she knows what is in
his heart:: ~~That is what I thought~~

::Rick answers her audibly, knowing that he can't hide what his true feelings
are from Beth:: Beth, it's too soon to even think about those things right
now. As far as I'm concerned, we are heading back to Federation space as
soon as possible.

::Beth thinks about Raven's symbiont in the stasis field: We need to contact
the symbiosis committee on Trill.

::Rick nods:: I've already arranged for a deep space transmission on secure
channels.

::Beth looks at Stephanie and Rick:: Well until it is decided on the future
of the HErmes command structure, we have to decide who sleeps where.

We're all going to sleep here? ::Stephanie interjects, not too happy about
having to live with both of them::

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::Rick looks at Stephanie:: Well ... she's not sleeping with us. ::He grins
playfully::

::Beth frowns because she can hear the concerns from both her daughter and
her husband:: Actually I was thinking about sleeping here. I am sure that
you can use the Captain's quarters Rick. ::She knows that Rick isn't going
to like the idea of sleeping in another room from her::

::Stephanie likes that idea a little more. She smiles::

::Rick thinks that this is not a subject that he wants to get into now
because he can already see the problems it may cause. He tries to put it
off:: I think sleeping arrangements are the least of my worries right now.

::Beth doesn't know how she can satisfy both of them on this subject::

Beth, ::Rick tries to find a way to say this without sounding too eager to
leave:: I have to get back to the bridge. It's where I belong right now.

::Beth nods, wishing that she could leave so easily::

::Rick lies as he talks to Stephanie:: Steph? Sleeping here with us ... um
... sure .. I'd like that. We are supposed to be a family aren't we. ::He
looks at Beth and quickly exits::

::Stephanie glares at Rick. She feels like she is being patronized::

::Beth watches as Rick leaves::

::Stephanie looks at Beth:: How long do you think that you are going to
stay?

::Beth looks back at Stephanie:: I don't know Stephanie. I just don't know.
::She moves over and sits at her desk:: Until that time I have some work to
do. ::She opens her client files and begins to go over who is due for what,
and what people she needs to contact about Kyla's death::

Okay. I will let you get to your work then. ::Stephanie walks out of the
quarters, heading for Steve's quarters to see how he is doing. She enters
the turbolift and thinks about Semino's last words:: A family? Having him
around changes everything. ::She smirks, thinking up a plan:: Oh am I going
to have fun with this one.

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VOYAGER
=======

Chapter 14 Catching Up

SD 9610.01

::Beth has been on Voyager a couple of months now. Many events have taken
place::

::Beth is lying on her bed. She is dressed in her nightgown that hugs her
figure softly. Her notebook and pen are hovering over her. She controls the
pen with her mind to write down what she says::

So much has happened to me in the short time that I have been here. The
Voyager was attacked by an alien race called the Kazon. Captain Janeway has
now explained further the role that the Kazon and a Cardassian named Sesska
has played on their journeys in the Delta Quadrant so far. With the help of
this Cardassian woman named Sesska, the Kazon were able to overtake the
Voyager.
I have found out that this Sesska is indeed the one that I had heard
about in the briefing. I further found out that Sesska had become pregnant
after she left the Voyager. It seems that Commander Chakotay had been
captured by the Kazon at one time, and Sesska had used Chakotay's DNA to
impregnate herself. Sesska used this baby to lure the Voyager into a very
dangerous part of space. The baby thankfully turned out not to belong to
Chakotay, but to the Kazon Nistral leader, Maj Kahla.
The news of the baby's real father has been a relief to everyone in the
crew, but myself. No matter the news about Sesska, Chakotay still lied to me
about Janeway. I have had a couple of sessions with him, prescribed by the
Captain due to the imprint that this whole baby ordeal had left on him.
Thankfully, we do not talk much outside of the Bridge, so I have not been
confronted by him again.
On a recent shoreleave Tom and Harry were taken prisoner by a very
unreasonable race. Even when we proved to them that Tom and Harry were
innocent they would not return them to us. After a thorough search, and some
information that we received from some "guests", we were able to locate Tom
and Harry. I was quite relieved when they were returned.
It was very hard not to run to Tom and wrap my arms around him when he
was returned to the Voyager. I still have not told him that he is my father.
I have come close a couple of times, but I am unable to get the words past my
lips. I am finding it harder and harder to keep this news from him, yet I
find it harder and harder to think of how to tell him. How is he going to
feel when he finds out that his own daughter has been working along side him,
serving with him, sharing good and bad times
with him, but she never told him that he was her father. I genuinely fear
what Tom Paris will do when he finds out that I am him daughter.
I have had to counsel B'Elanna a few times after her recent encounter
with the Anarans. This race was very interesting to me. They have the
ability to share their thoughts and experiences in ways that one can only
imagine. B'Elanna shared such an experience with one of the Anarans. The
memories that were transferred, shared, from one of the Anarans have made a
lasting impression on B'Elanna. In her mind she lived them right alongside
an Anaran named Katarina. We have made a lot of progress,
and now B'Elanna has been able to put the thoughts aside and return to
normal dreams.

::Beth laughs, sits up, and shakes her head, she adds a final note to that
part:: Well at least normal dreams for her. ::She shakes her head slightly
and turns to thoughts of Captain Kathryn Janeway

The Captain has been very gracious in her dealings with me. She takes
my judgments seriously and heeds my feelings. I have been quite pleased with
my progress on getting to know the crew as well. We seem to be working on
more of a trusting relationship. I know that she still doubts many things
about my presence, but they do not creep into her thoughts as often as they
used to.

::There is a beep at Beth's door:: Halt. ::She says softly to the pen and
notebook. The pen and notebook float effortlessly in the air above Beth's
bed:: Who is it?

It's Chakotay.

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::Beth hurriedly slides off the bed, without thinking about her attire, and
moves to the door. The door opens:: Yes Commander. ::She smiles. Chakotay
has been on an Away Team mission for the past three days, and Beth is
relieved to see that he is back on board safely:: What can I do for you?

::Chakotay looks at Beth from head to toe noticing her attire. He smiles::
~~Dressed like that a lot. Quite a change from Paris and Neelix~~

::Beth can hear Chakotay's thoughts:: Chakotay!! ::She says with disgust.
The blush rises in her cheeks:: Shame on you. ::She closes the door in his
face and Beth frantically tries to find her robe. She slides her arms
through it and returns to the door::

::The door opens to a smirking/grinning Chakotay:: Are you ready now
Counselor? ::He says trying not to laugh::

Wipe that smirk off of your face Commander or so help me I'll ...

::Chakotay straightens his posture, stopping her mid-sentence:: What was
that Counselor?

Nothing. ::Beth says sulkingly:: ~~Sometimes I wish that he wasn't the
second in command on this ship. One of these times ...~~ ::Her thoughts
wander back to Chakotay standing in her doorway:: Was there something in
particular that you wanted or did you just want to torture and taunt me?

::Chakotay's face turns more serious as he realizes that he is making Beth
even madder:: Now that I have returned, I wanted to ask you if we could
begin the work on the crew evaluations soon.

Yes Commander. ::Beth thinks about the PADDs and PADDs of records on her
desk:: That would be fine with me.

Is the end of the week too soon?

No. That will be fine. ::Beth pauses, looking into Chakotay's eyes:: ~~If
things just could have been different between us~~ ::Beth sighs and
continues:: If there isn't anything else Commander, I would like to return
to bed.

No, that will be all Counselor. ::Chakotay takes a step back, still looking
at Beth:: ~~Pleasant Dreams Beth~~

::Beth looks up into Chakotay's eyes. She knows that he can't hear her
thoughts, but she heard his plainly:: Thank you Chakotay. ::Beth steps back
into her quarters and over to her bed::

::Chakotay turns and walks back towards the turbolift so that he can report
on the Away Team mission to Captain Janeway::

::Beth looks up at the notebook that still hovers there:: Resume. ::She
orders::

I am working better with the crew on all levels, with the exception of
Commander Chakotay. They have accepted me as their Counselor. I have some
regular clients that see me to try to deal with the losses of their families
and loved ones. Chakotay continues to taunt me off and on. He refuses to
just let things lie. It is so hard to fight him because I am fighting an
inner battle with myself not to just run into his arms. Rick is still on the
Hermes and I don't know what is happening to him
there. The fact that Rick and I didn't part on the best of terms only
complicates things with Chakotay and I more. I find it so hard to trust any
male after what Rick did. How can I trust again?
I can understand the crew's feelings of loss. Even though I am quite
comfortable and pretty much happy here, I still miss the Hermes and my
friends there. I know that I had not been on board long before I left, but
already I had gotten to know several of the new crew. So many times I wonder
what they are doing or how things have changed. It may seem strange, but I
miss Beeg a lot. I wonder if my counterpart and her ever reconciled?

::Beth lays back against her pillow. She looks at the notebook in the air,
that is waiting for her next voice command or thought:: That will be all.
::Beth moves the journal to her dresser and tucks it away in it's secret
place where she had set it before then lies her head down to fall asleep::

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~Oh, no... ~ ::Bites her lower lip hard, drawing blood, and bolts over to
the panel. Keying in a response code, Deborah begins to pray ferverently
that she is not too late to cancel the code. She holds her breath and awaits
the computer's response to her cancellation request.::

Computer>> You have cancelled an emergency medical/security code. Are you
sure this is the appropriate action?

::Deborah sighs disgustedly and rolls her eyes. ~Computers! God love 'em.~

Yes. Cancel code.

Computer>> Several life signs remain out of normal range. Repeat. Do you
wish to cancel this code?

~I'm going to have to reprogram that damn computer to not be so condescending
and literal~ ::Deborah realizes the absurdity of her own thought. She
begins to laugh hysterically.::

Computer>> Response is neither affirmative nor negative. Repeat. Do you
wish to cancel this code?

::Gasping for breath between waves of gutteral laughter, with tears streaming
down her cheeks, Deborah manages to bark out to the computer.::

AFFIRMATIVE!! ::Holds her aching sides.:: CANCEL CODE!!

Deborah falls to the floor laughing hysterically. The endorphines released
by this primitive laughter serve to sooth and counteract the Ponn Farr
symptoms temporarily.

Computer>> Code cancelled.

Pavlor continues to laugh hysterically, tears of laughter streaming down her
face. She rolls on the floor and holds onto her aching sides. Her breath
heaves and hitches with waves of laughter.

Deborah pauses to catch her breath. She looks around and surveys the mess in
her quarters - debris strewn everywhere. The sight of the chaos - makes
Pavlor think of all the work she'll have to do to clean up the joint.
Undaunted, she collapses onto her back on the floor and continues laughing
hysterically.

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::Having just marched herself out of main engineering, Deborah tromps down
the corridor and enters a turbo lift. The ship lurches wildly, making her
stumble into the lift and land flat on the floor. ~Damn wormhole!~

::Moments later in her quarters, Pavlor stares at her reflection in the new
bathroom mirror. Her face is flushed and dripping with sweat, small strands
of hair not caught into a braid are pasted to her scalp. Holding up her
hands before her face, Deborah turns her palms up and buries her smouldering
face in her hands. Her internal rage grips her tightly, causing her body to
shake violently for several seconds. Wild eyed, Pavlor spins around and
stomps into the living area.::

Computer. Open personnel file. ::Deborah screams to the computer and begins
to pace back and forth in front of the sofa.::

Computer>> D. Pavlor, Personal Log; file open, recording.

I have little time left to resolve the Ponn Farr. I must choose.... Life?
Or death? I am doubting my ability to carry through with any of the doctor's
prescribed options.

::Rolls her eyes at the thought of her failed attempt to seduce the Romulan
in Ten Forward Lounge and her feeble attempt at drowning herself in the
lounge's pool just a few days ago. Pavlor stubs her foot hard on an end
table, knocking her off balance and sending her crashing to the floor. The
end table upends, sending several objects displayed upon it to the floor.::

AArrgghh!!! Damn it all! ::Enraged Deborah grabs onto the sofa's cushions
and pulls herself upright. Pavlor hurls both cushions across the room. A
holoportrait of the waterfall is no longer on the wall - the generator
projecting the image having been hurled to the floor when the end table was
upset.

DEATH?? ::Deborah screams into the emptiness of her quarters.:: To die, I
think is a better choice, than to live through this... This. ::Pants
heavily:: This CURSE!!!

::Out of her mind with fever, Deborah is unaware that she is trashing her
quarters. She knocks over the furniture, helped by a primitive burst of
strength, unknown to her previously. Kicking her computer console, she howls
in frustration at the pain caused when the structure that is securely bolted
to the floor does not yield. Screaming and ranting and raving Pavlor
continues to upend anything that is not secured. Throwing things with wild
abandon, she manages to smash and break every fragile object
in plain sight.::

::A high pitched alarm squeals loudly. Stunned out of her fit, Deborah stops
short and looks around wildly. The computer has signaled a medical crisis in
progress. Pavlor freezes solidly in her tracks. An emergency medical team
and a security team will be dispatched to her quarters.::

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Lee walked into her quarters after a quiet day in sickbay. She sat down
on her bed, stretching out completely. She smiled as she thought of all the
planning she and Jason had been doing. It really was quite fun, if they
didn't have to worry about the deadline.
"Deadline! Oh no!"
She rolled over to her side then sat up. She walkled over to her
computer terminal and quickly switched it on.
She sat down and entered the destination of her subspace message.
"Danar Lento, you crazy trill.." Lee smiled. "I had hoped to hear from
you before now, since I shall be returning home for a short stay. I'll be
bringing someone with me. My soon to be husband, Jason Storm. We will be
spending some time at my father's house in the Lavedar Mountains, which is
why I need your help. I just need you to make sure that the power's up, and
that the food I ordered for our stay is there. I'll be stopping by to see
you, though not right away, I hope you aren't
offended, my friend. After all, it will be our honeymoon."
She ended the message and sent it right out.
She closed her eyes and thought of the huge house she lived in as a
child. She had inherited it when her father passed away, but it would always
be her father's house, it would always possess the memories, good and bad,
that she experienced there.
And now, it would have the memories of her and Jason, and their first
nights as husband and wife.
She leaned back in the chair, sighing.
"Only four more days."

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::Beth sits at her desk, in her quarters, after Stephanie leaves:: This is
not how I intended for things to begin with Stephanie and I again.

::Beth concentrates on Rick's thoughts. She knows that he is busy on the
Bridge, trying to hold things together:: How can I fault him for doing
something that he does so well. ::She sighs and returns her thoughts to her
own:: He really wasn't happy at the Academy. Command is where he belongs,
and I know it.

Computer begin personal log authorization Paris Duncan 2.
>Begin when ready. Welcome Back.

SD 9703.26

Rick is still in command of the Hermes. We have not yet received a response
from Starfleet command, although I am not sure if Rick has even been able to
contact them yet.

A group of Cardassians beamed over, almost as soon as I reached the bridge.
They took the bridge crew, and other officers from around the ship. We all
ended up on the bridge of the Cardassian vessel. The Gul was not someone who
had patience or a respect of life. In my opinion he was heartless and cruel.

We were all tied up by his officers and made to watch his tortures of our
fellow crew members. I was enraged. The Gul decided to make an example of
Rick and tied him up tight before us all, then stripping him of his clothing.
Rick's back was to us, but it was embarrassing enough for him and us as it
was. I can feel his rage no matter how hard he tries to hide it. He is
diving himself into his work to try and overcome his emotions. Captain
Semino has always done that, at least for as long as I have
known him. He always tries to stay strong so that others can draw from him.
What happens when his strength is pulled from him so much that he has none
left for himself? I feel that even my misgivings about his taking command
may affect him.

I am totally enraged about Kyla's death. How could anyone be so cruel as to
kill someone like that in front of us all. It was nothing short of cold
blooded murder. All I could do was stand there watching as Kyla bled to
death. I wanted to fight back, and I started lashing out in words at the
Cardassian Gul who laughed with pleasure at Kyla's demise/ The Gul set me
free, egging me on to fight with him. In my thoughts I could hear Rick
telling me not to fight, but I wanted to so badly. He ordered me
not to so I finally stood still, seething with anger in my mind and my
entire being.

When we were finally beamed back to the Hermes I was in sickbay with Raven.
I began the preparation to save Kyla, but she refused. All she kept telling
me was to save Raven, save Raven. Teena was not back in sickbay yet, so
sadly I had to begin the process on my own. I was relieved when Teena showed
up and took over the transfer to a stasis field. I assisted since Lee was
having to tend to the other wounds of the crew members.

::Beth starts to feel a lump in the back of her throat again:: ~~No I won't
start crying again. I have been crying all day~~ ::She composes herself and
goes on::

I could feel Kyla's consciousness slipping away from us as we completed the
surgery, but in some way I sensed a peace that I did not expect. Kyla seemed
content in knowing that Raven would survive. How can someone be so content
in their own death? I have never felt what a Trill has in being joined, but
this puzzles me so. In knowing that Raven would survive, Kyla was at peace
to die. A curious, if not disturbing, revelation for me. I know that Raven
will be joined to another Trill, but no one could
ever be Kyla. I just hope that I do not have to face Raven again. If I had
acted against the Gul maybe I would have been able to save Kyla as well. Was
there something that I could have done in sickbay to recycle her blood?

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There are many questions in my mind, none of which helping to ease my pain.
I foolishly lashed out at Rick and even blamed him for Raven's death. How
absolutely juvenile. He only did what he had to, to save the rest of us.
"The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or the one"

Being in command is a hard process, especially when the crew is leery of
their commanding officer. I am sure that the Hermes crew will follow Captain
Semino to the ends of the Earth. He needs to draw from the strengths that
they have as well. Their support can help to ease the drain on his own
strength reserves. This is a trying time for all of us, and I need to stand
by him like I swore to do only a few months ago.

::Beth thinks back to their wedding day. What a day that was. She still
can't believe how fresh it is in her memory. She remembers it all unfolding
before her just like it happened yesterday::
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

::The scene is the wedding ceremony of Captain Richard Semino and Commander
Bethany Duncan. Rick turns, looks deep into Beth's eyes, and lifts her hand
to his:: Beth, on Earth, I used to sit long the shore of the vast ocean and
look up into the sea of stars. I knew there was something else out there
that I just had to find. I spent my entire career looking for it,
discovering new life, new cultures, and now ... I have found what I was
looking for. It was you Beth.

::Beth stares back at Rick::

::Rick begins to slide the ring on Beth's finger:: A new journey now begins.
And on this day, with this ring, I make a vow to you --- to honor you, to
trust and respect you, to love you with all my heart ... now ... and forever.
::Rick's eyes begin to fill with the love that fills his heart::

::Beth tries not to cry. She can feel the love that is pouring from Rick's
mind to hers::

::Rick slides the ring on her finger, never taking his eyes from Beth's
gaze::

::Beth looks at Rick and takes in a deep breath. She takes his left hand in
hers. She smiles lovingly:: I have dreamed of this day for a long time,
even when it didn't look possible, I hoped that this day would come when you
would love me, as much as I have loved you. I have cared about you since I
first met you and I want to now give the rest of my life to you. This is the
most beautiful time of my life, and I will love you more than all and remain
faithful to you.

::Rick listens smiling::

::A pair of slight tears form at the edge of Beth's eyes in happiness and
sadness:: Even though I know that we will soon be apart, let this ring
remind you and me that our love for each other can never be separated by
anything or anyone. May we always cherish every moment that we do get to
share together. ::Beth slips the ring on Rick's left ring finger::
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

::Tears are in Beth's eyes again as she looks down at the ring on her finger.
She has not taken it off since the day of their wedding::

>A long period of time has elapsed. Do you wish to close this log.

::Beth shakes her head and returns her thoughts to the present:: No,
continue.

I knew on that day that we were going to live in two different places after
our honeymoon. I thought that I could handle it. I was to find that I
couldn't. Despite everything, I know that Rick is glad to be back in
command. As much as we love each other he needs to be out here exploring all
the wonders of the universe. Maybe someday he will be content with the
wonders of our beautiful home, but I think that now he needs to fly.

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::Beth stops:: What am I afraid of? ::She thinks about that for a moment::
I am afraid that they will be hurt. I have never witnessed a sight such as I
beheld today. My own family being stripped and inflicted with pain. I had
to watch helplessly as my friends were skinned and even killed at the hands
of a heartless and cruel man. I love them all so much. How can I stay in a
job where there is such danger and pain. ::Beth ponders that:: Probably
because of my need to help those that feel pain.
Would I be any better on Earth wondering if Stephanie were alive or dead?
No, I wouldn't. It is best that I am here.

I need to be more positive about things here on the Hermes. I have loved
this place for so long and called it my home. What better place to raise our
family then among those that I love and hold dear. If we all stick together
we can protect each other. Rick was right. We all know the risks, and I
guess now I am going to have to stop looking at things through those silly
rose colored glasses. I will not push against him anymore. Where ever my
husband wishes to be, there is where I will go. My love
for him and Stephanie is too strong to be apart from either of them again.

Computer close personal log and secure.
>File closed and secured.

::Beth opens her thoughts again to Rick on the Bridge. She sees him sitting
in the command chair with his hand to his chin thinking. She smiles at the
sight::

~~Rick I just want you to know that I have decided that whatever you need me
to do, and where ever you need me to go I shall follow, whether that be the
Hermes or Earth. Forgive me for doubting you. I love you Imzadi~~

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

Teena walks to Counselor Beth's office and peeks in, "Beth?
Beth are you here?"
She looks over and sees the beautiful counselor sitting at her
desk looking over some papers. Beth looks up and smiles when she sees Teena.
"Teena, what a nice surprise!" She stands, noticing the mood
of her friend, "Social visit or a problem?"
"A concern, I'd rather call it. Do you have time to speak
with me, Beth. I'll make it brief."
"Why of course ... please, sit down." She indicates towards a
chair across from her.
Teena explains all of her concerns, all of her feelings to
Counselor Beth about the recent return of Lieutenant Jason Storm and his
engagement to First Lieutenant Lee Grant. Beth listens carefully.
"Could it be that I don't know where I fit into this picture
anymore? I was so close to Storm, and then when he disappeared I became
close to Lee. Now that Storm is back, I just don't know where I fit.
Beth looks ahead at Teena, unsure of exactly how to say this.
" I want to speak to you now as a friend, Teena not as your counselor. If
you don't mind."
Teena nods her head and listens.
Beth continues, "Something has been bothering me for quite a
long time, and I think that now is the right time to voice these thoughts
because it might help you." Beth takes in a deep breath. "When Jason was
taken form us I thought that I had lost you and Lee as friends. You didn't
come around anymore, we never talked, and I seldom even saw either of you. A
few times I tried to help you both with your loss, but it just seemed that
you had each other, and there wasn't any room for me."
Teena looks surprised, "Oh Beth"
"I know that it wasn't intentional, and I am as much to blame
as anyone. Maybe I should have come around more, but I felt like I was
intruding on the two of you. You two were busy with many things. In essence
you were in your own world, intentional or not, it was hard for anyone to get
in."

Teena is sitting in her quarters thinking back on the event.
She quotes to her personal log. "I felt so bad after she said that. I never
even realized what we had done to this wonderful friend. This person was the
first friend I had on the Hermes and in my own grief, I had forgotten her.
How selfish I now felt. How very selfish. There is enough love in all of us
to love many people, all in different ways. I can not clutch to either Lee
or Storm. We are all very good friends. I
can not look at this marriage as losing two friends. If I am truly a
friend, I would be happy for them both and I am. I guess I just felt unsure
of my status with each of them, this was what I realized after listening to
Beth."

"Beth, I am very sorry. I have many friends and look at the
friend I have in you. I am glad you have shared this with me. Please accept
my apology. You were my first friend on this ship. You made me welcome and
I didn't even consider your feelings. My only defense is that Lee and I were
so overwhelmed by Jason's disappearance, so worried and so afraid he was gone
forever, that we both could see nothing but our grief and although it drew us
close. It made us blind to other things."
Beth feels embarrassed. "Please it is not something that you
need to feel bad or guilty about. We all do it. I even did it to Stephanie.
I understand Teena, truly I do. There is no need to apologize for anything.
I just wanted you to see that you do still fit in. It is just that right now
they are focusing on each other and their plans. Once it all calms down,
things will return to normal. Lee is still the best friend that she was
before, or she wouldn't have asked you to stand
beside her." Beth reaches her hand forward and places it on Teena's.
"Trust me on this."

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The two friends are quiet for a few minutes, each in her own thoughts.
Teena looks at her dear friend and says, "Beth ... I don't know
what to say. In what you have said to me this day ... Well, I think a see
clearer now." She sits in silence a few minutes more. She remembers that
Beth is indeed pregnant, although she doesn't' show it yet. "You haven't had
an ultra sound yet, have you Beth?"
"No, I haven't." She smiles at Teena. Beth thinks about all
the things that have been happening to them on the Hermes lately. "Actually,
we haven't slowed down long enough to do anything that concerns the baby."
Teena smiles broadly, "Well then! We will have to remedy that
won't we! As your physician, I am responsible for your health and the health
of the baby. I want to set up a time for next week, so you and the captain
can come to sickbay for the sonagram. And I won't have any excuses!" Teena
laughs and stands.
Beth looks at Teena and sees a different attitude then she had
when she first walked in. She stands, " I will be looking forward to it ..."
Beth rolls her eyes. "And so will Rick."
"Thank you, Beth. You have helped me more then you know. I think
it's going to be alright now, everything is." She extends her hand to grasp
Beth's in friendship.
Beth smiles and grasps her hand, "Anytime, Teena. Anytime you
need to talk, my door is always open."
Teena turns and leaves the Counselor's office. She is happy and
at peace with her thoughts. Now she can truly stand with her two best friends
and share their special day, feeling more a part of it all. She will feel
honored to witness this, one the most important days of a couples life
together, their wedding day.

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INTRA-SHIP MEMO

TO: Lieutenant (JG) Deborah Pavlor
From: Captain Semino
RE: Leave Request
CC: Lieutenant DuCant

===========================================================

Lieutenant:

Your request to leave the ship is granted. In fact, we are moving the ship
within close range of the USS Darmok where we are also meeting with some
doctors from the Trill Committee. They will look over Ensign Darya and the
Hermes should have some time to recover as well.

Beth and I will also be at the wedding. We will look for you.

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What? This wedding will be held in traditional Betazed style? Ugh.

:::Rick begins a personal log.:::

Personal Log, Stardate 9704.01.

Betazed weddings ... grrrr. Hopefully, they will offer the scarves for those
less enthused about the Betazed style. I am supposed to be best man next to
Jonathon Yular. :::grunts::::

:::Rick thinks back to his own wedding just three months ago. He recalls
stepping into the shuttle and waving goodbye to his crew ... to his
friends.:::

That was very difficult. I never realized how much this ship and crew meant
to me than I did on that day. And now ... I stepped right back in ... and it
feels ... :::he smiles::: ... it feels good. I know it's not what Beth
wants and I will hold to my committment to return to Earth with her and
Stephanie. But if Starfleet Command wants me to stay ... :::Rick pauses:::
oh Beth ... however will I explain that one to you.

:::Rick thinks back to his wedding, the day he left, and his feelings for the
Hermes. He looks around the bridge then rests his chin on his hand. He lets
the memories and feelings flow through his stare.:::

:::Suddenly, his thoughts are broken by Beth's words.:::

~~Rick I just want you to know that I have decided that whatever you need me
to do, and where ever you need me to go I shall follow, whether that be the
Hermes or Earth. Forgive me for doubting you. I love you Imzadi~~

:::Rick sits upright momentarily stunned as if the entire bridge heard her as
well. Then, slowly ...he smiles and resumes watch over the bridge ... over
the Hermes.:::

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Dear Hermes Personnel:

Please welcome Ensign Carlos Flama aboard the Hermes. He will be joining the
Tactical department under the command of Lieutenant (JG) Steven Asted.

At 32, this part Vulcan/Bajoran/Klingon/Betazoid male believes he is Human!
He doesnt know of his actual heritage, yet he is partially empathic and
somewhat somber, and will exercise his passions for battle and for
experimenting with fervor even though he really doesn't know why he does that
... YET.

Welcome aboard Ensign!

-Captain Semino
Commanding Officer, USS Hermes

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:::::in her quarters pulling out a box off the top shelf in her closet &
takes the box down & opens it:::::::::

LCTeena: Computer...open personal log, LCTeena

Stardate:9704.05

Tomorrow is Jason & Lee's wedding day. I wanted to give Lee something special
& I decided on the veil that my grandmother gave me on Bajor many years ago.
I gave it to her at her Bridal shower a few days ago.

I remember when my Grandmother gave it to me. I know she had hopes that I
would wear it on my own wedding day. When she took me into her room, she was
very serious. She opened a chest & took out the most beautiful veil I had
ever seen. Long handmade lace with tiny pearls & beads. The crown was made of
the same beadwork & the blusher just lay below the chin. Perfect & delicate,
I was in awe of this lovely heirloom veil that my grandmother gave me.

I remember when she showed it to me, she had tears in her eyes & a faraway
look. She ran her hand over it's length, her fingers ever so often hesitating
on one of the pearls.

I never got the chance to wear it. When I married Chalok, I wore traditional
Klingon attire. It was hard to choose between the clothes that my Klingon
mother gave me & the things of my Bajoran grandmother. I chose the klingon
attire thinking that maybe I would one day give my grandmother's veil to my
daughter. Well I never had a daughter & the veil lay unused in a small chest
for years.

I couldn't think of a more deserving person to give this cherished veil to,
then Lee. It carries within it the beginnings of a wonderful & loving
marriage. It carrys all my best wishes & love for her & Storm in the future.

I wanted to give something to Jason also, something special. I remember
telling Jason long ago about my younger brother, Tommy, who died in a shuttle
craft accident. .:::::opens the box & lefts out a photo of Tommy &
herself::::

This was taken only a few hours before his death. It was the last time I saw
him.:::::runs her fingers over his image & tears well up in her eyes....she
shakes her head...places it back in the box:::::::::

:::Teena reaches into the box & picks up a simple latinum ring:::::::

I know he will have a wedding band but this ring he can wear on his other
hand, if he chooses to do so. It carries within it all my love & affection
that I have for him. Storm & I share something I have never shared with
anyone else. He lost his beloved sister & I have lost my brother. These two
siblings that we loved so much will never be with us in this life again, but
each of us has the memories.....the memories to cherish & hold dear within
us.

I remember us speaking of this before his disappearance. I think I started to
reach out for his friendship & he mine from that point on. He told me that I
have, in a way, taken his sisters place. I know in my heart he has filled the
void left by the death of my brother. I hope he will accept this ring with
the same love & affection in which I feel, in giving it to him. It means that
we are forever brother & sister....not by blood, but in our hearts, where it
counts.

I will give it to him tomorrow before the ceremony.

:::shakes her head::::I get so sentimental over such things. I guess it's
that Bajoran side again.:::smiles:::::

Tomorrow.....two shall become one. There is no other ceremony that binds two
people together as marriage. To share it with thier most dearest friends,
only adds to the beauty & sincerity of the occasion. I know they will be
happy, for they are soulmates, meant to live, love & breathe the breath of
one life together.

:::::smiles & closes the box.....places the ring on her dresser:::::::

LCTeena: Computer....end Personal log, LCTeena

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Three, Two, One....... The Days Soar Past
Lee smiled as she rose from bed. She looked around her quarters, the
walls emptied, and a few boxes scattered about the room.
She pushed the covers away from her, and slipped her feet over the side
of the bed. She stood slowly, pulling the large robe around her.
Killer came bounding toward her from his basket, leaping up at her.
Lee laughed. "Killer! I'd love to pick you up, but I can't bend that
low anymore."
She walked toward her closet and pulled out a light blue jumpsuit. She
entered the bathroom, Killer close behind.
"No, silly, you stay there." She looked down at his pouting face.
"I'll be right back, don't worry."
(She'd better not stay in there all day. I hid one of my bones in the
shower.) Killer sighed, and turned away from the door.
Moments later, Lee came out of the bathroom, her long hair loose down
her back, her once loose fitting jumpsuit, pulling tightly in the abdomen.
She walked over to one of the open boxes. She pushed it with her foot
toward the bed, then went to the closet and pulled a few items from it.
She smiled at them as she placed them on the bed.
She laughed as she picked up the small item she recieved from Kari at
Beth's baccelorette party months ago. She wound it up, and set it onto the
floor. She watched as Killer began growling at it, then chased after it,
yelping. He would get right up to it, then it would pop up out of his grasp.
She picked it up, still laughing, and set it inside the box.
She picked up the next item, laughing. It was one of her christmas
gifts from Jason. A hypo holster.
"Too bad it won't fit me now!" She held it up to her waist, laughing
even harder as it barely made halfway around. "I'm sure Sildan will be happy
about that."
She placed it carefully inside the box, then reached for the next item.

It was her collection of holodeck programs. There were several discs in
the box. One was from Beth. It was her Ireland program. She smiled
thinking of the numeruos times she had run the program just to relax herself,
and every time, it worked. Then there was Teena's Forrest Hills program.
How many times she had ridden Jade in there. She and Jason had shared an
afternoon using that program shortly before he disappeared. It was then that
she had given him the crystals she had found on her trip
with Q. Another program, Painting with Data, from Teena for christmas, she
hadn't touched for awhile. She had used it several times, but could not find
it in her heart to paint in months. Now, she thought, was a good time to
start up again.
She picked up a book packed in an airtight bag. It was another gift
from Jason. His sister's diary. During his disappearance, she kept it on
her nightstand, reading it over and over. Ariella's love for him, her
concern for his well being, kept her thinking. If he made it through a
dangerous childhood in the triangle, surely, he would keep himself alive.
She smiled as she carefully placed it in the box.
She reached behind her, and reached into her box of forever lasting
strawberries. She had been eating them for months now, the only constant
craving she has had. And thanks to Simon, her best friend, she had what she
needed.
Next, she picked up a special item. Beth's wedding bouquet. The silk
flowers were still beautiful, the white and pink rosebuds as lively as the
day she caught it. She was going to carry this in her own wedding. She
smiled, thinking how this time, tradition did come true.
She looked at a tiny box, a gift from Bre. She and Tearin had quite a
history together. Jacyntha, Grant's first host had been quite close to Luke
Tearin. They shared nearly everything together. Luke had kept a bracelet of
Jacyntha's, kept it all these years, held onto it, and Bre gave up the
treasure for Lee to wear on her wedding day.
** TBC **

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Her gaze fell on a large box. Her veil. Teena's veil. Teena had given
it to her. Lee was still shocked, she was so touched by Teena's love, she
could barely even say anything.
Lee wiped the tears from her eyes, as she thought of the love her
friends had for her.
She thought ahead to the honeymoon she and Jason had planned. Kari had
given her at her surprise party two tickets for Risa. But that, Lee thought,
was better off saved for when she was a bit more mobile that she was now. A
quite week in the qiuet mountains of Trill sounded like heaven abuot now. A
week alone with Jason. And with Beth's little basket of goodies, it would be
a fun week.
She sighed happily, glad that everything was coming together.
She checked off the last day on her calendar. The last night sleeping
alone in her quarters.
Tomorrow was a brand new day, a brand new life.

:)

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The Wedding Day
The aboritum was silent, this was the morning of Jason and Lee's wedding.
The chairs were set up, the trees and flowers protected by soft lavender
roping along the sides of the chairs.

The arch near the front was made of fresh red and white carnations, with pink
rosebuds trailing throughout. Crisp green leaves filtered between them,
softening the pinkness.

Near the entrance to the aboritum, stood a cocoon filled with ready to burst
butterflies. Lee and Jason wanted to share their love for nature by not
littering the aboritum with wasteful rice. The colorful butterflies would
show the freedom of their love.

Lee sighed as she left the aboritum. She hadn't seen Jason since the night
before, and she was already missing him. But soon, they would both be here
to exchange their vows.

She smiled as she left the warm aboritum. It wasn't long now until they
would be together.

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Personal Log
Stardate 9704.01

Not a bad day for my first time. I could still feel a lot of tension aboard
the ship with everyone. I just can't tell if it's good or bad yet. I sat
next to Beth on the bridge. Poor lady seemed a little jittery. The memory
of Kyla dying on the operating table flashed through my mind. I hope she can
come to some terms with it. I may have Kyla's memoriesw and some of her
mannerisms, but I am not her. And I think that's what killing Beth
emotionally.

The only that doesn't seem affected by me so far is Sildan, the Cardassian.
I hope he knows that I hold nothing against him for what happened to the crew
and Kyla. I hope the tide turns soon. I met Chief DuCant down at
Nine-Forward. She asked me to call her Bre. She seems to understand
everything that has been going on with me, but then again, she's the host for
the Tearin symbiote. I haven't been able to see Lee yet, but then again,
she's too busy planning for the wedding, which I won't be there.
Bre and I discussed about Kyla's past, with the way she went for revenge
that one time. We came to the conclusion that it was best that I go and see
the Symbiote Commission as soon as possible. Kyla's personality was just so
strong, and still is.

I tried to get the courage to make an appointment with Beth, but so far I
keep seeing the look on her face when she took the Helm and I took Ops. So
far, I feel so unable and helpless to actually go and see her and assure her
that everything's alright with Raven. Maybe it's not so important if I don't
go and see Beth now. Maybe I should step back and give her some time.

<<<LOG OUT>>>

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The sun felt warm on Darya's face when she stepped off the shuttle onto
Trill. As she walked to the Symbiote Commission, she wondered if she was
just wasting time coming here. No one could really help her, as if she
needed it. She felt that she and the symbiote were adapting just fine. But
there were the memories of Kyla. And she was very strong. Evidence of that
came out at the party for Leetanzia Grant.

When she arrived, Ra'adin Trevel was there to greet her. "Greeting
Darya. How are you feeling?" "I'm fine," Darya said confidently "But I'm
not sure if this is all a waste of time." "Nonsense." Ra'adin said as he
lead Darya to a room, "It was best that you came here right away. Kyla
should have never been joined." Darya was taken aback by this revelation,
"What do mean she should have never been joined? Kyla was a fine host." The
two Trills entered the room and they sat down opposite each
other. "Kyla was very strong indeed. The Raven symbiote had a tragic
history with it's past four hosts. But I always felt that maybe a stronger
yet sensible host would have been more appropriate. Kyla might have been
appropriate for the Dax symbiote, for example, but not the Raven symbiote.
The memories overwhelmed her quite a bit. That was nasty business back on
Gideon III, not to mention with the Cardassians." Darya was shocked and
insulted. Kyla was a part of her. She couldn't believe what
was coming out of Ra'adin's mouth. Kyla....inappropriate? Never.

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After a while, she asked, "What does all of this have to do with me?"
Ra'adin looked thoughtfully as he replied, "Well, Darya, you do seem like a
sensible host. You may be the one to counteract everything that has went on
with Kyla. Kyla was too headstrong and rebellious. The only reason she
became a host was on the recommendation of Kurzon Dax and that was because
she gave him back whatever grief he tried to give her." Darya interrupted,
"Isn't that a good enough reason to become a host,
because of her strength? Kyla wanted to be a host more than anything and
she set out to prove that she was responsible enough to become one. Kurzon
saw that in her." Her voice became more irritated with the conversation.
"You cannot sit here and judge Kyla when you were never there with her. She
made some mistakes and paid dearly for them." It was Ra'adin's turn to look
astonished. 'My dear....you're beginning to sound like Kyla. I think we
should get started on the examination, to see how far
Kyla has influenced you." Darya stood up. She had enough of this
conversation. It was a big mistake to come to the Commission. "I sincerely
hope that this is not the opinion of the whole Commission because it is very
poor indeed. It makes me ashamed to be a Trill. As for Kyla having an
influence on me, might I remind you that I am Darya,as well as Kyla, Crelon,
Nisa, etc. They make me who I am, not just Kyla alone. And if you don't
mind, I have some duties to get back to on my ...er, the ship."
She turned to walk out of the room. "My dear....you should really stay for
awhile longer." Raa'adin pleaded with her. Darya shook her head in
disbelief, "There's no way I'm going to stay here any longer than I have to.
I can't believe I missed a wedding of a good friend just to sit her and
listen to you insult Kyla. Well, speaking of Kyla, in her grand old
tradition and respect to her name, I would rather sleep on a bed filled with
cold gagh than stay here a minute longer. Good bye." Darya felt
a certain pride flow within her as she left the building and headed for the
shuttlecraft. ~Kyla would have been proud of me.~ she thought to herself as
she headed back to the Hermes.

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Starfleet Command

Personel Department; Ship Crew Assignment Section
Starfleet Command H.Q.
SanFrancisco, North America, Earth.

StarDate - 9704.01

To: Ensign Carlos A. Flama-Enriquez
Ship: USS Enterprise 1701-E

Re: Request for transfer Approved.

Mr. Flama, We thank you for the request for transfer from the Uss
Enterprise NCC-1701-E. We understand the extrenuating circumstances that
have made you decide to transfer from the Enterprise and we hope that on your
next assigment your potential can be trully expanded to its full capacity.

At this Time we have No Ship with Personell Openings that need your
capabilities... we are assigning you to the deep space listening post DSL 409
on the border of the Alpha and Delta Quadrants, the supply ship USS Nizinda
will pick you up in DS5 and take you to the Outpost. Your Duties at this
station will be of Comunication and sensor Operator. As soon as an opening
on any of our Starships Comes Up we will Call on you to Accept it.

Cordially

Commodore Ransilier Abercromby VIII
StarFleet Operations.

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.....2 years ago.....
Place: Utopia Planitia Shipping Yards, Mars.
Ship: USS Enterprise 1701-E

Maiden Voyage and Christening Ceremony.

The ship lifted off the low gravity pad and slowly drifted toward the
pinkish sky... this was her first taste of flight and she was handeling
well...a little sluggish because she really didnt know how to fly and she
really wasnt built for atmospheric flight....as she came out of the atmospher
and on to space.. things changed.. all her instruments came to life and she
was a Queen of Space... a warrior queen...she was built for fighting.. very
rigged and very strong.. with all the latest inovations
and the highest firepower in all of the fleet... she was the first of a new
breed of ship that would course the spacelanes and the emptyness of the outer
reaches with proud and stoic grace....a wonder of engineering and a triumph
of the scientific minds of the moment.... Her fate was doomed from the
start... it wasn't a design flaw.. it wasnt her captain.. it was her name and
the legacy that she was inheriting with it. In the past Her name inspired
Heroism and glory and signified the best of what the
Federation had to offer... But after a particular incident at an Obscure
place in our galaxy.. named for a nonedescript star her future had been
slated and fixed....It was Wolf-359. Her name....

The Uss Enterprise.

a new crew... but the old leadership...the best of the best...and in this
group of new officers stood a young man that had a lot to think about....a
young fello who really didnt know his past.. Who really didnt know he Had a
past and who in a few months would meet his destiny and face his worst and
deepest fear. The Borg.

Ensign Carlos Joaquim Flama-Enriquez(Saltrek
Jaxa-Nervendum-Klorank-Yunsendirul)
Tall(6'3") and sunburned Dark eyed and fairhaired , Mr. Flama enjoyed all the
"normal" things a young boy on earth had..he grew up in the outskirts of the
city of
Helena, NorthAmerica. he attended the national school for gifted
children(his IQ is 160) he is a little somber but has a good sense of humor
balanced with enough seriousness to be entrusted with the family business
when he was just 16(Computer Enhancements) he graduated with honors and was
given a scholarship to finish his studies in Computer Sciences. Just then
the cardassian War broke out and he Joined the Space Marine Corp. after his
tour of duty ended he decided to join Starfleet and see what was
really "out there". He graduated 3rd of his class and specialized in
engineering with a strong background in Field Medicine. He took what ever
jobs the Fleet had for him and was content with his work. He served in
various ships:

USS Trafalgar.... Space mine layer.

USS Roma.... Bouy tender

USS Oceana.... Supply ship

USS Trenton.... Troop Carrier.

USS Bonhomme Richard.... Starship/Light Cruiser

After the destruction of the Uss Enterprise 1701-D he applied for Ship
duty and was posted to the next generation of Ship. The USS Enterprise
1701-E. After the incident in which the Enterprise was taken over by the
Borg he never really recovered of the shock of almost being Assimilated...he
asked for a transfer to any other ship.... it was at this time that he
started to notice that he really wasnt as "normal" as he thought he was...

his likes:

holo-fighting
reading
sports
good home cooked food
sunbathing
surfing

His dislikes

The Borg
uncertanty
shallow women
Lies

He has never been married and does not have a girlfriend. he hopes to
get married and have a family in the future.

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StarFleet Command
Personel Department.
To: Ens. Carlos J. Flama

Subject: Transfer Approved.

You are here by notified that you petition for transfer to a starship
has been approved and you have been posted to the USS Hermes. Report As Soon
As Possible By any mean at your disposal to the Uss Hermes and assume the
post of Assistant Tactical in such describe ship. Report to its Captain and
report for duty . My deepest regards and wishes that you are content with
your new posting. please contact Starfleet comand as per your departure
times so that we can agknowledge your arrival to the
Hermes.

God Speed and Long Life.

Comodore Ranselier Abercromby VIII
StarFleet Operations.

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Ens. Carlos Joaquim Flama
USS Hermes
SD-9704.08

....CJ packs his travel bags and bids farewell to his stationmates at the
deep space listening post 409-L as per his transfer orders he took one of
the stations Runabouts the Uss La Mancha and headed out to the last know
position of the Hermes. Tactical? now that is a new word in his professional
vocabulary.. for the life of him he doesnt understand Why Starfleet would
send him to a new ship to a post that he was not really that proficient in...
as he sat back in the pilot chair and watched the stars
go by at Warp 5 he tried to think of the duties that a tactical officer
had.. and tried to remind himself that once he had taken such a position...
way back when he was part of the crew of the Bonhomme Richard.. during the
Breen Squirmishes... he had worked the Tactical stations when the Tac officer
was killed in one of the raids... he knew that this station had the power of
helping the ship fight and or resist an attack... buthe still could not
understand the thinking behind his new posting....
::shrugging off ::: he stared out the view port and dreamed of his life back
home... he wished his parents had had another child so that he would have had
a borther or sister.. someone to be able to talk to...share his feelings
with...had fun as a child.. but that wasnt to be...he was a only child and
lately that was catching up to him... the loneliness of being solitary
carried with it a silence that wasnt really that reasuring to him.

Time would make him change his mind.. he might find someone that would
make his nights less solitary.. less lonely more worth living... he thought
of all those opportunities in his life when he thought he had found the
person that was right for him and had that snatched away by different
reasons.. duty, war, death, distance... he looked forward to this new Ship...
full of new faces and going to new places were he might find that special
someone to be his companion to be there for him and that he
could be there for someone that needed him like he needed them...

6 hours later.....

:::the locator beam signaled that he was in communications range of the
Hermes... and that he should take over the controls for manual guidance....
CJ woke up from his dreams and took control of the runabout ...

"Runabout La mancha to Uss Hermes come in... "
"this is the Hermes please identify by turning your locator beacon La
Mancha"
"Locator beacon is on please advise..."
"Correct we have you on our grid... you are at 1.5 million Kms from us please
change course to 270 mark 45 .. please advise when you have visual.."
"roger hermes .. La mancha out.."

CJ guided the runabout and changed course to randevouse with his new ship
after about 1 hour he had the ship on visual...

"La Manch to Hermes i have you on visual... lining up for docking.. please
advise as to docking bay..."

"Roger La Mancha we have you plese release manual control we will tractor you
in Hermes ..Out"

:::CJ felt as the tractor beam took hold of hus ship and guided it to the
shuttle bay... slowly it deposited the runabout on the landing pad and He
shut down the ship... after power down he looked it over everything was
secure...
:::sigh::: " well here we are lets do it..."

:::he got up and headed out of the ship to his new life.....

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

Joint personal log between
Lt(jg) Deborah Pavlor, ACE
and
Ltn. Sabrina Tearin DuCant, CEO
SD 9704.05

+++++++++++++++++++++++++
**NOTE: this meeting takes place shortly after Deborah's return to the
Hermes after the Janar/Yular wedding on the Darmok. It is PRIOR to the
Grant/Storm wedding. (so many weddings . . . so little time!) ~:)


The Chief Speaks Her Mind


:: Sabrina is sitting in her office. She has just finished reading a
message and she is not happy. Wanting to scream she gets up and paces
around hoping to calm herself before she calls in Lt(jg) Pavlor. Her yellow
eyes glare back at the message on the monitor. She stomps a couple of times
in frustration.

A few minutes go by and she finally sits again and hits her comm badge. ::

{S Tap} DuCant to Pavlor.

{S Tap} Pavlor here Chief, GA.

+Pavlor+ Ms. Pavlor I would like to see you in my office immediately.

+DuCant+ Yes, I'll just finish up--

+Pavlor+ No NOW, Lieutenant!!

::Perplexed by the instance in the Chief's voice, Deborah shrugs. Closing
the computer files she was working with, Pavlor sighs and rolls her eyes.
~Perhaps the Chief hasn't heard about the Darmok thing...~

:: Sabrina taps her badge and ends the conversation. She knows her accent
was just very thick because of her anger. She places her head in her hands
trying to calm herself. ~ Did that sound too harsh? Yes, yes it did! Geeze
. . . give me strength to do this correctly!~ ::

{S Doorbell}

Come in!

:: Pavlor walks in and stands at Sabrina's desk. She smiles tacitly.::

You wanted to see me, Chief? If it's why I haven't forwarded those reports
on the .... ::Sabrina cuts her off.::

Ms. Pavlor, sit down. We need to discuss something. ::sighing::
Lieutenant, look I am not going to beat around the bush with you here. You
know me too well to do that anyway. I'll come straight to the point. ~Keep
your cool, Bre. ~ I heard about your behavior at First Lt. Janar's wedding.

::Pavlor cringes and stares dejectly at the floor. ~I wonder if she knows
more about what I did than I do!~::

(Continued @ 2)

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

::Pavlor cringes and stares dejectly at the floor. ~I wonder if she knows
more about what I did than I do!~::

Sir, I--

:: Sabrina holds up her hand. :: Please, let me finish.

I have to tell you I am downright astonished by what you did. I am very
disappointed with your actions! ::becoming angry again:: Do you know what
you did? You were sent as a representative for me . . . and this is how you
act?!!

::Deborah jumps up and stands before her superior stunned. Her mind races
to try and pull up memories of what took place at the wedding.::

~an angry Klingon woman~ ... ~the scent of roses...thousands
of beautiful roses~ ... ~anxiousness over attire~ ... ~KNuChi? -
a SECURITY OFFICER???~ ...~the body warmth of another
wrapped around her~ ... ~crying - so many people crying during
the ceremony~ ... ~heat, too much heat~ ... ~sickbay? a doctor?
the groom too?~...~Akarn, dancing closely with him~...

::Deborah slumps as the last memory washes over her like a heat wave-a tidal
heat wave. Pavlor is barely aware of what Sabrina is saying to her, as
memories flood into her mind bringing with them the sting of shame and the
burden of guilt.::

... ~kissing him softly~ ... ~cajoling the doctor in sick bay~ ...
~Jon Yular, the handsome groom~...~pushing, struggling~...

Lieutenant, you have a situation here that is spiraling out of control. It
has to be dealt with! I have a department to run here.

~music, dancing, drinking~ ... ~away - people tearing me away
from him~ ...~Captain Semino and Counselor Beth were
there too???~ ... ~the dancer from the party, too??~

I can not have this uncertainty in the ranks. The rest of the engineers
don't know what is going to happen next with you.

~a strong hand grabs my neck applying tremendous pressure~

::Deborah grimaces as she come to a mental block. She does not fully
remember the Vulcan neck pinch that Akarn administered in an effort to pry
her off the groom.::

~ordered to sickbay by the Darmok's Captain?!~ ... ~pushing an
angry woman away~ ... ~shouting, so much shouting~...

I need to know that I can depend on you . . . and right now I can't. If
this happens one more time you will be relieved of your post. Do I make
myself clear?

::Humilated Deborah stares at the floor. Tears begin to well up in her
eyes. Throwing her shoulders back and attempting a strong face, she trys to
meet Chief DuCant's gaze.::

Yes... Chief. ::She bites her lip and clenches her hands into tight
fists.:: I understand.

:: Sabrina looks at the tears glistening at the corners of her engineer's
eyes and her heart goes out to her. She clenches her teeth in an effort not
to cry herself. ~ God how I hate this!~ Walking around her desk she stands
in front of Pavlor. ::

::Deborah is only dimly aware of the Chief standing before her.::

~I've let her down... I've disappointed her... I... I've disgraced
myself... Don't know what to do... What to say...~

Deb, I have the utmost sympathy for you . . . really I do. :: She puts her
hand on her shoulder.:: Of all people I understand what it is like to have
something happen to you that is beyond your control. Something you wish
never ever happened.

::Pavlor shudders noticeably at the Chief's touch. She sighs heavily with
embarassment and plops dejectedly into the chair.::

:: Sabrina bends down in front of her. Her heart is breaking for her
troubled assistant. :: I understand. When I came back to the ship after my
evaluation I was afraid of what the crew was going to think of me. Would
they look at me as if I were a freak? Would they pity me . . . mock me . . .
talk behind my back? I walked around with my eyes to the floor so no one
would see them. I was so ashamed.

~Ashamed?! If you only knew the half of it.~ ::Deborah thinks morosely. A
hot tear escapes from the corner of her left eye.::

(Continued @ 3)

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

:: Sabrina bends down in front of her. Her heart is breaking for her
troubled assistant. :: I understand. When I came back to the ship after my
evaluation I was afraid of what the crew was going to think of me. Would
they look at me as if I were a freak? Would they pity me . . . mock me . . .
talk behind my back? I walked around with my eyes to the floor so no one
would see them. I was so ashamed.

~Ashamed?! If you only knew the half of it.~ ::Deborah thinks morosely. A
hot tear escapes from the corner of her left eye.::

Then a situation presented itself. I needed to either run or fight. I did
what needed to be done. I hate to say this, but you need to do the sane
thing . . . no matter how hard it is. You need to resolve this, Deb. You
can't go on like this.

::The Chief's words filter down into Pavlor's mind ...You can't go on like
this... and take hold ...You can't go on like this... There it is... another
resolution, ...You can't go on like this.. a chilling, fatal one.::

This whole situation has me stumped. I don't know what to do for you.
::smiles:: You know me . . . there isn't anything that can't be solved with
a plasma drill and some elbow grease! Whatever you need me to do, I will do
it. Maybe together we can work this out.

::Hangs her head and buries it in her hands.:: There's nothing anyone can
do, Chief... ::Pavlor whispers to herself.:: No one can help me now.

You are a spectacular officer, Pav. I don't want to loose you or see you
hurting like this. Lets get this resolved, OK?

::Deborah takes a slow deep breath and then nods affirmatively to the Chief.
Smiling meekly, she stands and turns to leave, but stops short and faces
Sabrina.::

I'm sorry I've disappointed you Chief. I will be sure to send apologies to
all involved. ~Provided I remember everything someday.~ I will talk to the
Counselor as well, perhaps her input can help me figure something out. ~Or
at least prepare me for...~

:: Sabrina stands and smiles at her. ::

::Deborah sighs:: Thanks, Chief. ::Looks Sabrina squarely in the eye.:: I
won't let you down again. ::Pavlor turns and walking slowly she exits the
office.::

::softly to herself :: I know, Deb. I know you won't.

:: She turns slowly and returns to her desk. ::

That was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. Life was so simple as
an Ensign.

:: Pulling her legs up onto her chair she puts her chin on her knees and
cries. ::

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

:::Rick finishes up his duties on the bridge. He leaves the bridge to the
night shift officer and hurries to the arburetum. With no one around, he
picks one of the red roses in section C.:::

~~~Hope they don't catch this one missing.~~~

:::Rick returns to his room, sets the rose down, showers, and splashes on
Beth's favorite cologne. Then, he calls her.:::

~~Beth ..... Are you still awake?~~

~~Yes Rick. I am in my quarters.~~

~~I am almost done on the Bridge. Could you meet me in my quarters?~~

::Beth smiles:: ~~Of course. I will be there in a few minutes~~

:::Rick smiles as his devious plan develops:::

Computer, dim lights and begin Semino Music Preference, soft jazz collection.

:::The computer quickly responds with a captivating saxophone and
accompanying bass. He walks to the replicator.:::

Two Long Island Ice Tea's.

:::He looks once more around the room to make sure everything is perfect.
Suddenly, the doorbell rings.:::

:::Quickly, he sets the drinks down, grabs the rose, and heads to the
door.:::

~~~Rick? Are you there yet?~~~

~~~Yes, please ... come in.~~~

:::Suddenly ... the song, "Oh Yeah" from Ferris Bueler's Day Off and The
Secret Of My Success starts playing as the door opens. There's a pause as
Beth stops for a moment and looks at Rick. The moment lingers as the two
just stare ... no expression ... their thoughts linked ... the door wide open
... the music pumping.:::

:::Rick throws the flower on the floor as Beth rushes in. He lifts her
slightly as their lips meet in a passionate frenzy of kisses. They work
together to remove the binding clothes. The drinks are knocked to the floor
as the door closes behind them sealing the two in the room ... in the dark
... in each other's embrace .... in love.:::

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

:::After leaving Trill and attending the Storm wedding, Rick set a course for
Deep Space 8 for final repairs and supplies before his and Beth's trip back
home to Earth. He wasn't sure who would actually resume command of the
Hermes as Captain now that the Hermes is back in Federation space.:::

:::Once the Hermes arrived at DS8, most of the crew spent time in the unique
merchant shops. Rick headed to his ready room. After a brief discussion
with Lieutenant Steven, he received an incoming message from Starfleet.
Fleet Admiral Caiman appears on the viewscreen.:::

Admiral! ::smiles::: Good to see you sir.

ADMIRAL> Captain Semino ... on the Hermes ... again.

Well Admiral ... actually, I'm heading for home ... back to Earth.

ADMIRAL> I read the report. We still have not located Wit. It's a terrible
tragedy.

Indeed. I hope his pod was not damaged.

ADMIRAL> Captain ... we'd like you to continue command of the Hermes.

:::Rick is interrupted momentarily:::

ADMIRAL> See ... you are busy already.

Admiral ... I'm not sure ... I ...

ADMIRAL> :::interrupts::: Captain ... you should take it. Just think about
it.

Admiral ... I ... :::Rick wants to say yes ... but thinks of Beth:::

ADMIRAL> You think about it Semino. Admiral out. :::Screen goes blank.:::

:::Rick ponders the excitement, the comraderie, the love he has for the
Hermes and its crew. He activates a log on the computer.:::

Captain's Personal Log, Stardate 9-7-0-4 point 8.

I am faced with a decision. I could continue to resume command of the
Hermes. And ... it's what I'd really like to do. I mean ... I thought I was
ready to retire. And our home on Earth is coming along great. But without
Beth, it's empty.

Now that Beth has decided to return with me so we could raise our child on
Earth, I find myself commanding the Hermes again ... as if I never left.
:::Rick smiles as warm memories surge through him::: And I love it. I've
got to say ... I really missed this. :::His smiles fades as he thinks of his
commitment to his family.:::

:::Sigh::: But what about our other plans? How would she feel if I wanted
to stay?

:::Rick's thoughts are interrupted by the doorbell::

Computer, close log.

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

"Computer, close duty log, and open a personal log."

"I am NEVER and I repeat NEVER taking a temporary post, no matter HOW
respected the ship is. I've NEVER seen a ship as nuts as this one. I know
I'm half vulcan, and my parents taught me that many people cannot control
their emotions, but this is incredible. The counselor was brought into
sickbay with a concussion after attemtping to attack her husband sexually. I
don't think I'd fit in on a ship like this. I'm glad I'll be returning to
the Homer soon. I don't think my vulcan blood can take too
much more of this.."

Carrie smiled as she gazed at one of Lee's paintings on the wall. "I
shouldn't be so hard on them. I myself enjoy basking at the impulsivity that
some emotions cause. In fact, I probably shouldn't even say this out
loud......"

Carrie looked both ways to make sure no one was behind her. ".....but if
they hadn't left, I probably would have knocked that lieutenant out of the
way and taken the ensign myself, pon farr or no pon farr!"

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

SD 9704.01

::Beth's sits up quickly in her bed. She almost screams as the thougths fill
her head again:: ~~It is going to be another sleepless night~~ ::Beth gets
out of her bed and moves to the replicator:: Mug of mint tea, hot.

::The mug appears and Beth takes it over to her couch:: ~~It is hard enough
not sleeping with my husband, when I know that he is so near, but these
thoughts won't let me sleep~~

::Beth sits down and sips the tea gently:: ~~Their strength is like nothing
that I have ever felt before. It is as if there are uncontrollable desires
flooding the ship, but I can sense that it is only one person, maybe two that
this is coming from~~

::Beth picks up a PADD that she was reading earlier off the table. She opens
the files of Deborah Pavlor. Ever since the first night it has been haunting
Beth as to where they were coming from. The thoughts were in such disarray
and confusion that Beth had spent many hours trying to sift through them and
discover the true source::

::The PADD states that Pavlor is 1/4 Vulcan and 3/4 Lehian (I'm guessing on
the rest since I don't have a bio from you). She sets the PADD back down::
I haven't heard of this happening before. ::Beth whispers out loud to
herself:: I guess that it is possible for the females to go through it. It
probably has something to do with her being mixed in heritage, possibly a
genetic marker that usually is only apparent in the males was transferred to
Pavlor because of the genetic cross overs.

::Beth writes that down on a PADD and saves it to give to Teena later:: ~~I
wonder if that is possible~~

::Beth keeps trying to relax her mind as the thoughts and emotions rage on
with a vengeance and intensity that she has not seen before:: ~~If I felt
this crazed towards Rick I would kill him when we were together. I had no
idea that the emotional upheaval was so strong that you would swear these
were a Klingons thoughts~~

::The mug of tea almost drops out of her heads as she concentrates, trying to
send soothing thoughts and calming emotions to Pavlor's mind. She had only
ever tried such a thing once on the USS Federation to Lieutenant Commander
Storme. Beth didn't like the fact that she could not ask Pavlor's permission
first, but from what she read on Vulcan's privacy in this matter, she didn't
want to intrude::

There will come a time when I have to tell you. ::Beth can feel Pavlor's
thoughts start to calm, and Beth can feel her own trying to race faster as
her mind engulfs some of the ramped emotions. She can feel Pavlor using her
meditation and calming techniques, and tries to help carry the load, at least
temporarily::

::Pavlor's thoughts calm once again, and Beth opens her eyes, her breathing
quickened. She tries to catch her breath:: I am going to have to talk to
her soon. I can't keep doing this. I don't know why she doesn't just find a
mate for the fever. I know that we have a few Deltans on board that would be
happy to oblige her.

::Beth stands up and sets the mug on the replicator pad. As it disappears
into nothingness, Beth turns and slips under the blankets once again. She
closes her eyes, happy to have the fevered thoughts removed, at least for
now:: I will try to contact her tomorrow. Maybe we can end this.

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

After Lee's Party

::Beth hurries back to her quarters. Stephanie has already gotten back, and
is sleeping peacefully:: ~~I can't believe that they invited Stephanie to
that. It was bad enough that she was there, but she saw ...~~ ::Beth's
thoughts trail off and she is careful to guard them against Rick:: ~~I have
to talk to him about this before someone else does~~

::Beth walks to Stephanie's door and peeks in. She sees that she is sleeping
and Beth moves to pull up the covers around Stephanie's shoulders. She
places a soft kiss to Stephanie's head and leaves the room::

Mint tea, hot. ::Beth calls to the replicator and the mug appears. She
takes it over to her terminal::

Computer begin personal log authorization Paris Duncan 2.
>Begin when ready.

SD 9704.03

Tonight we had Lee's bachelorette party. I must say that it was very nice of
Teena to throw one for Lee. I was more than happy to attend after Lee so
graciously gave me one when I got married. I just hope that Lee liked my
present. I know that they will have so much to do for a while, but sooner or
later Jason will have to go on a mission. I know that the tea and a book
will come in handy then.

::Beth looks down at the tea sitting on her desk and laughs:: It seems that
it has been forever since Rick and I have been able to sleep together. I
know that it is playing with my mind. I did some things tonight that I can't
believe that I did. I allowed myself to be caught up in the party, and I
danced with the entertainment that was there. Of course my actions were
nothing compared to that of some of my other friends.

::Beth thinks about the biting and the water fight, and laughs:: Nothing is
as funny as when I found out that it was Commander Hawk. I had heard of him
before, and I was utterly embarrassed.

In any case, my actions were not appropriate for someone who is married. In
the morning I will go and talk to Rick about it. I am sure that it was just
a case of hormones, since I am having to hold all of my frustrations in. I
thought that it was hard being apart from him, this is getting ridiculous.

I still haven't figured out why I didn't just go and sleep with Rick in the
captain's quarters. I know that it has to do with Stephanie. In our fight
the other day, Stephanie expressed her displeasure at Rick sleeping with us
in my old quarters. I still can't believe that I said that I would sleep in
one quarters and Rick could sleep in the captain's quarters by himself. What
was I thinking? Was I insane? After how hard I fought to win Rick over, how
could I let anyone stand in my way?

I know that I don't want to lose Stephanie. She means a lot to me, but Rick
and I are married and whether any of us like it or not, we are going to have
to work through this. I am not going to give Rick up. I am sure that
Stephanie will get used to having him personally involved in our lives, but
she isn't going to start adapting until I force the situation.

::Beth thinks about what she would recommend to a client:: If I were
counseling someone about this I would be telling them that they needed to
break away and let the child learn on her own. I would tell them that it is
hard for anyone daughter to accept it when someone new comes into their
"mother's" life, but that in time all would learn to adjust. Then I would
say that it is important that the marriage doesn't suffer from the situation
because if the marriage suffers then the whole family is liable
to fall apart, and no one will end up happy or together

::Beth pauses to think about it for a minute:: Perhaps I should take my own
advice. ::She thinks about Stephanie sleeping in the other room:: Not just
yet though. That will be quite a fight. Maybe I will talk to her about it
tomorrow.

Computer close log and secure.
>File closed.

::Beth finishes her tea and starts to feel Pavlor's fevered thoughts. She
sighs:: Oh boy. It is going to be a long night !!

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

The Unexpected Guest Part 1

::Beth and Rick are walking to the transporter room on the USS Hermes. They
have both been invited to attend the wedding of First Lieutenant Katerina
Janar to Lieutenant Commander Jonathan Yular. They step up onto the
transporter pad::

::Rick nods to the transporter operator:: Energize.

::After only moments, Beth and Rick rematerialize on the Darmok and are led
towards "The Garden" where the ceremony is to be held::

::Beth watches as the Ensign walks away:: This ship is still full of
security. You should have seen it when I visited Tnagra before. I couldn't
go anywhere unaccompanied.

::Rick nods then wraps Beth's arm around his:: Ready to enter?

::Beth takes in a deep breath:: Yes. It has been a long time since we have
seen Tnagra. It will be good to see him.

Indeed. ::Rick walks to the door and in::

::Beth looks around at the garden:: How beautiful. ::She says in amazement.
She takes in the beauty as she walks in farther. She turns her attention
back to Rick:: Do you think that you are ready for this?

::Rick raises an eyebrow:: I guess so, but I'm not taking off that scarf!

::Beth laughs::

::Rick gives her a stern stare::

::Beth tries to contain her laughter more:: ~~I'm sorry Imzadi. It isn't
funny, but really it is~~ ::She still tries to stifle her laughter::

::Rick looks at Beth:: I'll wait a bit before I ... err ... change.

::Commander Koric Hawk walks into the garden::

::Beth is facing the door, and she sees Hawk walk in::

::Hawk is looking towards Beth. He hasn't forgotten last nights party:: Nice
to see you again.

::Beth sees Hawk and blushes:: ~~Oh NO!!~~ ::Beth quickly says hi and tries
to steer Rick to the other side of the room::

::Hawk notices Pavlor and turns his attention to her instead:: Hello

::Rick notices the reaction when Beth sees Hawk:: ~~Why did I suddenly see
Hawk half naked in my mind Beth?~~

::Beth tries to answer without giving herself away:: ~~I have no idea~~
::She sees innocently::

::Beth sees Pavlor:: Oh look . There's Debbie

::Rick reminds Beth:: Now Beth, don't call her that, she doesn't like that.
::He says outloud:: ~~And I want to know what that thought was you sent
me.~~ ::Rick says telepathically to Beth::

~~Why Rick? I am sure that it was just something that I was picking up from
someone else in the room~~

::Rick drops the subject for now:: ~~Beth, I guess I should go get ...
ready.~~

::Beth looks curiously at Rick:: ~~Get ready?~~

::Rick kisses Beth on the cheek::: I'll be back shortly honey. ~~Watch out
for Hawk, I don't trust him~~

~~But he is quite attractive .. I mean harmless~~ ::Beth laughs nervously
and guards her thoughts:: ~~Oh if you only knew~~ ::She watches as more
guests appear. She sees that everyone is mingling nicely. She watches Tnagra
enter and notices his fancy Tamarian attire:: ~~He looks nice today. I
wonder if he knows~~ ::She turns her attention to the location of the
dressing rooms and walks over::

::Rick enters the dressing room. He takes out VERY LARGE scarf:: I hope
this is big enough. ::He wraps scarf around and notices that it is barely
serving its purpose:: ~~This is ridiculous! Beth, how does your culture do
this?~~

::Beth walks over to the changing remove and removes her delicate dress::
~~We don't have inhibitions about nakedness my love. That is how~~

~~I can't come walking out like this!~~

::Beth finishes undressing and walks over to Semino's room:: Of course you
can. You are covered. ::She adjusts his scarf a little more::

::Rick spins around to show off his ... scarf ... but spins a little too
quickly::

::Beth laughs:: I wouldn't do that again if you want to have any secrets
from the crew. ::She looks down at herself. She is glad that she doesn't
quite show her pregnancy yet::

::Rick is still unsure about this::

[Return to Archives | Return to Listing ]

::Beth walks out into the main area:: Come on. ::She sees Rick peeking out
of the door: You can do it. ::Her voice tries to coax him out::

::Rick looks both ways, then holds his head up high, and walks with Beth::

~~Now I have nothing on and you don't see me so squeamish~~

::Rick realizes that Beth isn't wearing anything:: ~~Beth!~~ Psst!! ~~What
are you doing??~~

~~This is standard wear for guests as well. Now I suggest you hurry~~

~~Beth ... you didn't tell me you were going like that!~~

~~Why shouldn't I? I am Betazoid, I just didn't push the fact when we got
married, but I don't see why I can't attend this wedding in this way~~

::Rick shakes his head as he looks around for Yular::

::Tnagra walks over to Semino and Beth:: Good evening, Captain.

::Beth smiles at Tnagra:: Good Evening Tnagra

::Rick sees Tnagra and smiles uncomfortably:: Hi Tnagra, good to see ... uh
... see you again.

::Tnagra looks Beth up and down:: Nice to ... er... SEE you again,
Commander.

::Beth smiles:: And nice to see you as well Tnagra. ::She doesn't realize
that her non-attire might make Tnagra nervous::

How are you Tnagra? ::Rick continues to look for Yular:: ~~Beth, have you
seen the groom?~~

::Tnagra holds out his claw to Semino and nods::

~~Not yet I haven't Rick~~

::Rick shakes Tnagra's hand and sees a flash going off from some where in the
background:: ~~That had better not be a camera!!~~

Well if you will excuse me gentlemen. I think that I shall mingle. ::Beth
moves away from Rick and Tnagra::

::Tnagra moves away from Rick and over to sit down::

::Rick is flabbergasted when he hears Beth:: ~~BETH!!! What do you mean
mingle?~~~

~~You can handle yourself on your own dear?~~ ::Beth chuckles and walks over
towards more of the guests. She ends up running into Hawk:: Well Mr. Hawk I
didn't expect to see you here today.

::Rick suddenly gets another vision of Hawk again, and he looks around for
Beth::

::Hawk is smiling:: Likewise Beth. It is always a pleasure to see you.

Likewise to see you again. You gave quite a performance last night. ::Beth
blushes thinking about it:: I must say that you left many of us quite
breathless.

::Hawk's smile widens:: The pleasure was all mine. ::He takes a seat in
another row from Beth::

::Beth thinks back to the night before a little and then back to the
ceremony::

::Rick's thoughts are beginning to be more intuned with Beth's the closer
that he is to her and the more that they use the telepathy. He can sense the
increased attraction from Beth:: ~~Beth, what is that you're feeling? Is it
Pav again?~~

::Beth looks up at Rick in the front and just nods, feeling embarrassed. She
finally realizes what it must feel for others when she picks up their
thoughts:: ~~Don't even ask. It better calm down soon or we are going to
have to leave early my dear for a little recreation~~ ::She sits down by
herself::

::Everyone starts to settle as the ceremony begins. It is a wonderful
traditional Betazoid ceremony led by captain Ahrele Johannson. The couple
exchange their vows and rings despite the drop of temperature in the room and
subsequent guard being posted at the temperature gauge. Everyone cheers for
the couple as they kiss and kiss and kiss. Many people laugh and all decide
to head for the reception without waiting for the bride and groom::

Let's DANCE!! ::The DJ hears Semino and starts music::

::Beth calls out telepathically:: ~~Watch out for that scarf!!~~

::Rick laughs and walks down from the front over to Beth as others head for
the changing rooms::

::Beth walks over to the changing rooms:: ~~Well his inhibitions seem to be
disappearing. That means that I had better watch out that Pavlor doesn't go
near him~~

::Rick walks up behind Beth:: Hey there good looking, going my way?

::Beth grins:: I don't know. Have you seen any tall dark handsome men
around?

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::Rick picks Beth up and takes her into the dressing room::

::Beth laughs reading Rick's thoughts:: ~~Oh really. Mr. Semino, such
thoughts~~

::Rick smiles:: Okay, let's get dressed and go dance.

::Rick takes Beth's hand and goes for center stage on the dance floor. He
starts dancing to the YMCA::

::Beth starts laughing:: You are in quite a mood tonight aren't you.

::Hawk enters the reception hall and and walks near Beth and Rick::

::Beth looks over to Hawk and smiles. She can't help but to think that she
heard that music all last night at the party::

::Hawk smiles to Beth and lift his drink in a toast::

::Rick spins Beth around and dips her at the end of the song. They move off
the dance floor. He walks over to the bar and then over to a panel on the
Darmok wall::

::Beth sees the look on Rick's face when he walks back towards her:: You
have to return to the ship don't you?

~~Yes dear, someone hailed me~~~

::Beth frowns:: ~~This is one reason why you were leaving Starfleet~~ ::She
catches herself, remembering her promise:: ~~But I understand~~

~~Beth, I'll return as soon as I can, okay?~~ ::Rick promises, knowing that
he probably won't be able to return. He hopes that he will be able to
though::

~~That's alright. I will just mingle~~

::Rick kisses Beth passionately under the disco lights:: ~~Good night~~

~~Good night my dear~~

::Rick beams out of the reception hall and back to the Hermes::

::Beth watches Rick leave and sits down by herself:: ~~I hate it when that
happens~~ ::She sits with her hands in her lap thinking::

::Hawk sees Beth all alone. He walks over towards her. He smiles:: Hello
again Beth.

Hello Hawk.

::Hawk looks around:: What happened to him?

He had to leave. ::Beth answers simply::

Mind if I join you?

::Beth directs her hand towards the open seat on the couch with her:: Please
do. ::She moves over a little::

::Hawk sits next to Beth::

Did you enjoy the wedding? ::Beth asks curiously::

Very nice. My first Betazoid wedding.

Ah then you must have enjoyed it. ::Beth grins::

::Hawk laughs:: That I did!

The first is the most spectacular or the most shocking depending on who you
are.

Hmm enjoyable I'll say. ::He continues to smile::

::Beth reads Hawk's thoughts, she chuckles:: Interesting thoughts Commander.

::Hawk grins:: Yes they are.

::Beth blushes slightly:: So is your dancing a side job? ::She leans closer
and whispers:: Or a more permanent one.

I do it purely for pleasure.

::Beth looks into his eyes:: ~~Intriguing~~ Well you surely gave a few of
the ladies that last night.

Including you?

::Beth eyes him carefully:: Well I would be lying if I said that I didn't
enjoy your dancing. ::She blushes slightly:: You are quite intriguing.

::Hawk continues smiling:: Why thank you Beth.

::Beth hears the familiar music of "When a Man Loves a Woman" and frowns. She
motions for a waiter, but none comes. She watches as many people pair up and
move to the dance floor. Several songs play by as Hawk and Beth seem
interested in talking to others on the side::

::Beth looks back towards Hawk who is watching the dance floor:: If I may be
so bold as to ask you for a dance tonight Hawk? It is the least that I can
do after the dance you gave us last night.

::Hawk smiles and offers his hand out to Beth:: I was just going to ask you.

Well then I would be delighted. ::Beth takes Hawk's offered hand::

::Hawk leads Beth to the dance floor. He glances over at Beth as they walk
to the dance floor::

::Beth follows Hawk, watching his eyes::

::Hawk takes Beth in his arms ... looking into her eyes:: Ready?

::Beth nods:: More than ready. ::She follows his lead::

::Hawk twirls with Beth ... leading left::

::They start dancing to various songs::