USS Dark Fire (IC)

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“Come” Hora ordered as the door to her quarter’s opened.

As Commander Reeves walked in, he saw Hora looking out of her view port down onto deep star 9 which they were currently orbiting. She seemed to be thinking. It was not something he had seen her do before. Quietly thinking, and taking in the beauty and vastness of their environment. He waited for her to turn around.

She did a moment later

“Sorry I was just thinking.” She explained “what do you have for me?”

Lt Sol and Ensign Cook

“How are we going to find sympathizers?” Ensign Cook asked in bewilderment. She had no experience in this area.

“A single sympathizer, is typically not very dangerous. However, when they start to band together it is a problem. Groups need to communicate. I’d start with a detailed search of all communications. It must be all forms. Clandestine groups like to use older forms of communications, so be sure to check everything. Secondly, if they are planning something they will conduct reconnaissance on the target. The station’s sensor might detect people standing around in odd places or maybe someone assessing data logs with no good reason. Finally, there is typically an inside person that will help them get weapons or explosives. I can check on that.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870525.0915

“Vice Admiral Roanoke left some logs that are unusual at best. Bizarre if nothing else. In one of them he called you a whore and expected me to mutiny. I believe his logs may have been in jeopardy before and after his death.” Reeves reported as he maintained a neutral face. Mutiny? Never. Strongly object to some of her – habits – yes.

“Ensign Cook found the logs and reported it to me. To my knowledge no one else knows. Could it have been a code? Either the words or the wording?”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

Hora walked over to her large screen and pulled up a holo image of Admiral Roanoke. The admiral looked stern with unyielding eyes. A testament to his decades of service in Starfleet.

“That man was not crazy. He knew what I was” her voice calm and measured, "unconventional."

Hora looked over to Reeves met his gaze. “I believe we came to blows over my… ideas.”

Hora paused for a moment "There is no hidden message in his logs. The only reason there was no mutiny is because of your dedication to duty. It is one of your most commendable attributes.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870525.0930

“I wouldn’t say crazy, but he was crafty.” Reeves replied looking at the log. “It just doesn’t sit right that he’d call you a whore. That’s not typical Admiral talk, nor typical of any reports I’ve read from him.”

“And I would never Mutiny, another reason I suspect this message.”

Bypassing the boxing match comment he looked at her. “With your permission I’ll investigate this further.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“That is an interesting thought. Please investigate the log entry” Hora answered.

“Also, when you get a chance, no hurry. Please compile a list of people qualified to take command of USS Dark Fire. Include yourself on the list, if appropriate” Hora asked Reeves

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“Of course Captain, is this in anticipation of Starfleet moving you to command of the Starbase?” Reeves asked. “And the sector?”

“You are a logical choice after all.” He added without any hint of political maneuvering. It was logical, so he’d stated it.

“Is there anything else captain?”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Jinx Whisper AKA Ensign Riley Cook

Ensign Riley Cook was dressed in civilian clothing, wearing a cloak with the hood pulled up to cover her face. She was now Jinx Whisper, a sympathize. Deep Star Nine was massive with over 100 different levels. The top levels of the station, was the clean, well-organized spaces common to the federation. However, the lower levels housed the non-federation workers and storage areas. Jinx was on Level 90. It was one or the seedier level of station.

“Be careful” Zosh warned her through her ear-piece. “Getting killed will mess up my outstanding record”

Jinx giggled “Want me to bring you back a drink from The Paradise Lounge?” she asked Zosh.

“Ok” Zosh agreed.

Jinx was not expecting that answer. She had never seen her dinosaur friend drink.

“Great, see you in a bit” Jinx said ending the conversation.

She walked through level 90 and asked a few people if they knew where the paradise lounge was located. None knew. That was probably not true, but no one offered anyone help down on this level.

She and Zosh had searched the data streams for odd styles of communication. It took a while, but they had found a small group that passed paper notes to each other via handshakes. The same group was seen conducting reconnaissance on both Commander Reeves and Captain Hora. They were interest when the two were on the station. They also did some searches on the Vulcan Ambassador, but that seemed to be a backup target.

Zosh had not found any inside people supporting this group so far.

Jinx found the lounge which had a dirt neon sign announcing its location. She walked into the lounge. The main floor was furnished with numerous tables and chairs around which patrons could sit, as well as couches resting against the walls. There was a number of broad windows offered a view of the surrounding space on the south wall of the lounge.

The Paradise Lounge was not busy and there were humans, and numerous other races among the various tables and couches. Jinx also noted a few droids and a member of the station’s security force. He seemed tense.

She ordered an Andorran Rum. She sipped her drink and waited. Being undercover was new to her, but she understood the basics. Take on the role of another person… in this case, Jinx Whisper, a person that wanted to join the underground movement. Then gathered intelligence and report what she learned. The key was to blend in, be that new person. She needed to earn the trust of those who would otherwise be her enemies.

Hora

Hora laughed.

“No, I’m going to be fired, relieved of command.” She said to answer Reeves question about a promotion. “I will be asked to step down. I’m not so arrogant to think that someone else might be a better captain than myself. I just want the ship turned over to someone that is qualified and cares.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870525.0945

“Captain, I’d like to bring a counselor aboard. I’m sure with the number of people that died they’ve left behind friends and loved ones. They will need someone to talk to get over the trauma. Plus considering the nature of the dark Fire, more casualties will occur.” Reeves said.

“It would be wise to get a handle on it before we have trauma related personnel failures. I have several in mind, did you wish to review them, or shall I select one? And a counselor is civilian in nature, outside of military rank.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“What, our EMH counselor is not living up to his image?” Hora joked. Then she became serious “Please select one. I’ll be his/her first patient. Maybe he or she can figure out why I’m so messed up.”

Jinx Whisper AKA Ensign Riley Cook

Jinx had been sitting there for about 30 minutes when a male Cardassian came into the lounge and walked up to her table. He wore a dirty apron and his clothes smelled of cooked food. He looked like a short order cook from the history books.

“Mine if I sit with you” The Cardassian asked.

“Free universe” Jinx replied sipping on her drink. The man sat down. Jinx had never liked Cardassians. They were a species known for their ruthlessness. They also believed, as a species, they made no mistakes. She knew there were a few “good” Cardassians, but she had never met one.

“We need chicken eggs. Terran chicken eggs. Real Terran chicken eggs” The man asked Jinx.

“Fuck off” Jinx said

“You want in, then get the eggs” The man stated.

“Ok, I’ll get the eggs.” Jinx said as she leaned in close and whispered “Not sure how this helps the cause”

“Orions are allergic to Terran chicken eggs”

“AHHH” Jinx said in understanding “Who do I give the eggs to?”

“Me, the cook,… Ped Iddet” He said

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870525.1200​

At 1000 hrs he’d sent out the request, by 1100 he’d gotten five responses.

Walking into applicant number fours office he looked around. Clean, orderly. A place for everything and everything in it’s place.

“Dr. Marlowe,” he said glancing at the data slate and comparing the images. “I’m Commander Reeves, Executive Officer of the Dark Fire.”

“Due to recent events the Captain and I feel it’s necessary for a lead Counselor on our ship to guide and help the crew through the troubles they have and will face. With a crew of roughly 25,000 you will have a staff under you and you yourself will be limited to Officer’s. Unless you feel someone else is in need of your services.”

“Why should I trust you with the mental and emotional wellbeing of the Officer’s of the Dark Fire?”​

 

[sereneotter00]

"You should trust me because I live by the belief that a few exchanged phrases can alter anybody."

Xiana Marlowe's words were often blunt and occasionally monotone, but her delivery didn't undercut her sincerity. Despite her rigid appearance, where not one strand of hair was not tucked securely into her chignon at any hour during her employment hours, she had gone into her field with a wholehearted desire to guide any clients to be better and do better. Now, as she sat cross-legged with her hands on her lap, back uncurving, and large eyes that either captivated or agitated whoever was listening, she hoped Commander Reeves could detect the good faith in every syllable.

"Often, people overlook the importance of surviving when there is no other current priority other than themselves. There's hardly any benefit to being physically fit if you loathe your surroundings or any benefit to being astute if you are miserable in the skin you wear during those few seconds before falling asleep."

Xiana's gaze fixed intently on the man before her. "It's naive to assume I could be the ultimate solution to your officers' more personal concerns, much less that it could be done with only a handful of sessions. What I'm certain of is that I not only navigate this career with integrity, but I do so with the aim to give the tools so that others may be able to exist with more ease. Not a single creature's life is without struggle, Commander. Unfortunately, a life of quality demands retrospect."

The woman took a moment to draw a quiet breath. "If you'll allow me to ask, Commander, what is your biggest concern as of the mental well-being of your colleagues and subordinates?"

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“My concern is for the mental and emotional welfare of the crew, officers and enlisted, combined. My current concern is for the loss of a number of our crew due to infestation of the silver parasite, and space combat we’ve undertaken of recent.”

“If you believe you are capable of leading a team, as well being personally involved in the care of said crew members. I’d like to keep them from suicide, or unacceptable aggression to each other.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

Xiana pressed her lips into a straight line at the mention of the casualties. "I'm very sorry for your loss. If your ship is this determined to find good mental aid, then I assume you held your crew close. I doubt it's surprising to hear that many higher-ups consider their members... disposable. It's refreshing to hear of your camaraderie."

In her years of employment, Xiana (as she assumed anyone ever outside of a leadership position) had grown sick of seeing how expendable others were. It fueled her need to assist but was also one of the reasons she made running her cathartic activity of choice. It's hard to be aggressive to a cocky person in power when you're still walking off last night's sprint.

"As I stated previously, this kind of care takes time and caution, but if you'll allow me the flexibility and resources—within reason, of course—then I'd be more than happy to assist your crew in whatever way I can. Eventually, if hired, I would like to incorporate things such as peer support programs or some type of rehabilitation for those who need it. Naturally, I don't have a thorough pitch for you just yet, but it's only one of the many ways I'd like to help those on board—if you'll have me."

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“After you’ve met with the Captain we can make it formal, but for now I don’t see why you can’t move your office and residence aboard. She’ll be needed to make you Director of the Psychiatric Division. She’ll also make your welcome aboard official.”

“I’ll have the quartermaster assign you quarters and an office. Do you have any specifications for the Quartermaster?”​

 

[sereneotter00]

She bit the inside of her cheek to prevent a grin at the commander's assurance of her position—based on his tight demeanor so far, she wasn't sure if it'd be a good look. Hearing of a female captain was a plus for Xiana. She thanked her luck in the privacy of her mind; Xiana was sure her job would be ten times smoother with a firm woman leading the ship. "I look forward to meeting the captain."

As of the quartermaster, she took a pause to consider her options. She wasn't in any position to demand luxurious decor or refined additions, but she wondered how versatile her requests could be above the standard. "If I could have an additional safe for my patients' information, I would truly appreciate it. I'm always willing to go the extra mile to maintain their privacy."

Xiana took another beat before spitting out her other preference. "Could I also have a mouse?"

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“A safe? For keeping files? I would assume that you’d keep them on the computer. Or do you plan on using paper files?” He commented as he made notes on the data padd. “A rodent? I would advise against that we have several Caitain’s aboard. A bipedal feline species. That may try to eat it.”

Interesting requests, possibly do able. “But if you’re certain, I’ll do what I can securing a rodent, and appropriate enclosure for it."​

 

[sereneotter00]

Xiana nodded at the commander's closing. "I only do my note-taking by hand." Some found it too traditional or time-consuming, but while Xiana was sure any security systems in place could help with maintaining this information classified, it kept her more at ease. She had perfected her abbreviations through the years.

"I don't mind being cautious, as I hope your security will be equally observant," she continued, lingering on the way the man took his notes. Knowing this was simply an interview, Xiana knew she couldn't get a full read on the commander. The sooner she knew the crew, the quicker she could adapt to them.

"I am certain; I appreciate it. Thank you, Commander. Do you have any other questions for me?"

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“No. No further questions. Please report to Captain Hora at your convenience.” Commander Reeves replied as he turned and left. “Nice meeting you.” he added as he left the office still trying to understand why she wanted a rodent. A pet? Maybe for an experiment.

It wasn’t logical.​

 

[sereneotter00]

With her office empty once again, Xiana locked the door behind the commander, leaning against it and letting out a breath she hadn't noticed she was holding. Calm, collected, but now beaming at the fact that she'd be able to board a ship and practice her career. She didn't expect a joyride, but knowing she could better the conditions was reward enough. The mouse was a perk.

The woman found one of her many blank sheets of paper and began to conjure up a profile on the man she had just met.

Direct.
Unvaried.
Respectful of his force.
ST: Nice hair. Ask what products he uses.
Maybe a sign to stop bleaching.

She continued her notes and tucked them away covertly. Xiana got the position; now, her meeting with the captain was her in to maintain it.

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Jinx Whisper AKA Ensign Riley Cook

Jinx walked into the USS Dark Fire genetics lab. She saw a lab technician and went over to him.

“I need to run an analysis on a Terran chicken, Female, egg producer.” Jinx stated.

“Who are you?” The tech asked.

“Dark Fire, please confirm my identity and approval level.” Jinx asked the ship’s AI.

“Jinx Whisper, she has the authority to acquire genetic test animals” The ship’s AI confirmed.

“Ok” Tech acknowledged the information. He went to the back and returned with a Terran Chicken. "This species DNA is loaded on the data disk. The disk contains a list of dominate and recessive genes, and mutations.”

Jinx's expression softened with a smile. "Impressive. Does it lay eggs?” She asked.

“Yes” The tech replied

“No rooster needed?” Jinx asked.

“No, not unless you want fertilized eggs” Tech answered “Do I need to explain how fowl reproduce?”

“No… I know how sex works. Thanks” Jinx replied and took the chicken out of the lab.

Hora

Hora glanced at her next appointment. Dr. Xiana Marlowe. Well, this should be the highlight of the day, she thought. The new ship’s counselor. Hora quickly went through her file. Dr. Marlowe record was impressive. She could see why Commander Reeves had made his selection.

The woman was definitely going places unlike myself, Hora thought slightly glumly. Hora had moved quickly up through the ranks of star fleet, too quickly. Stories of her sleeping her way to the top tainted her accomplishments. She had moved into the science field and even there her accomplishments were challenged.

Snap out of it, Hora, she told herself. This isn't about you, it is about a new ship's counselor.

Someone was at the door to her quarters.

“Come” She ordered.

Dr. Marlowe enter the room. She was a very beautiful, thin, blonde, human with a prefect face. She wore a crisp outfit that complimented her skin. She hesitated at the door.

"Come in," Hora laughed, as she stood up. Hora showed off her voluptuous figure as she gestured for the Doctor to have a seat. Hora was not going to let this woman dominate her with her good looks. "I'm not going to bite! Please have a seat."

There was a naughty twinkle in Hora’s eyes.

 

[sereneotter00]

Xiana's first impression of the captain was surprise (particularly at her initial approach), even though she didn't let it show in her face. Her expression remained impassive as she took a seat before the leader. "Thank you for having me, Captain..." She was yet to learn her last name, if she had any.

It was hard not to admire Hora's appearance and bubbly nature to match. It was unexpected to Xiana, however. She had imagined someone in such a high ranking would have an equally stiff etiquette, but she wasn't sure if this would complicate anything or make it more limber just yet. Then again, that was exactly why she was here meeting her—to familiarize herself.

"It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Xiana Marlowe. I look forward to working with you."

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“I’m glad to meet you as well. My full name is Hora Layvnullo, however Orions, in general, do not like to use their last names. Please call me Hora in private and Captain or Captain Hora when the crew is around.” Hora answered. She retook her seat, but not before showing the good doctor a nice view of her cleavage.

“This is not an interview. You have the ship’s counselor job. However, I wanted to welcome you aboard.” Hora said firmly. “It is a great ship and an even better crew. Welcome. I think you will find your job exciting, challenging, and rewarding.”

“I want to discuss some of your responsibilities. Basically, you and your staff will be responsible for the mental well-being of the crew and civilians. Also, since I have lost my Vulcan ambassador, as ship's counselor, you will also have a diplomatic role, advising myself in first contacts and other situations.” Hora explained. “So expect to be called to the bridge”

“As you, I’m sure are aware, the ship's counselor has the power to relieve other officers and crewmembers of duty if the counselor feels they are suffering from a condition that may hinder them from performing their duties effectively, that include the ship’s captain. It is a heavy responsibility”

“Finally, and this is the part, I like the best. You are required to provide input on all officer evaluations and fitness reports. You’ll need to ask Commander Reeves about non-commission crew members. Even if you only need to evaluate the officers, that is a lot of people. So make sure your staff helps you.” Hora explained.

“Normally, I’d let you figure everything out on your own, but we don’t have the time for that. The crew has been through a lot. The death of their last captain, my antics, a bad first contact, death of several crewmembers to include our Strategic Operations Officer to the parasite. They need you help and guidance”

“There are a few officers I’m worried about. Ensign Cook, Lt Sol, Lt McLeo, and myself. You might want to ask Commander Reeves for other names. Please schedule appointment with all of them when you can.

Are there any question you have for me? Anything I can do for you?” Hora added at the end with a little naughty grin.

 

[sereneotter00]

"I'd prefer to refer to you as 'Captain' in private interactions as well. I appreciate your desire to get me acquainted, but as the person who will be overseeing my work, I find importance in maintaining strictly professional relationships," Xiana stated, relaxing her shoulders. In the captain's movement, she did quickly glance at her chest, but her eyes fixed on Hora's once again.

The diplomatic portion did lead to a slight tilt of Xiana's head. "Captain, with all due respect, I'm not nearly qualified enough to take a position that critical. While I'm sure I'll persevere in my new role, psychiatry is something I'm confident I can execute without issues; the last thing I'd like is to cause any issues due to a lack of expertise."

Perhaps with time, Xiana could grow comfortable in such a role, but she knew better than to bite off more than she could chew. As is, she had never been in charge for so many beings' wellbeing all at once. She would hate to worsen it with her current state of knowledge.

"Likewise, I can provide my input on the reports, but my thoughts on fitness could also be limited—reactions stemming from psychological problems or recovery aside, of course. I will make sure to use the staff at my disposal."

The woman nodded patiently at Hora's mention of incidents prior to Xiana's arrival, particularly on Hora's alleged antics. She could dwell on that, but as this was a first meeting, she hardly thought it was the right setting. Very few enjoy being dissected when they first introduce themselves to someone new.

"As soon as I'm able to, I'll start scheduling a session for the members of your crew. As a leader, you more than anyone must know that everyone benefits from something as minuscule as a check-in. On that note, as you mentioned being worried for yourself, would it be too candid of me to ask if you're doing alright? I don't expect a monologue or for you to bare your thoughts all at once, but your condition is important too, Captain."

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“Dr. Marlowe, I will respect your wishes, and call you counselor or Dr Marlowe. However, as a counselor you must realize that for an Orion, strictly professional relationships include having sex. Humans limit their interaction and understand of each other by not including personal, intimate, interactions. Your word intercourse means communication or dealings between individuals or groups. Sexual intercourse is that same communication, but with sexual qualifier.” Hora suggested

“As far as my mental health, my concerns involve the standard, weight of command issues. I have lost a few crew members, and some of them were a direct result of my orders. We can discuss it more in my first session. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to make your assignment here more pleasurable” Hora said to end their conversation.

 

[sereneotter00]

Xiana listened attentively, patiently nodding as she absorbed Hora's information. The mention of sexual intimacy did throw her into a loop, primarily since she didn't usually discuss that in introductions, much less with her leaders. "I understand completely. I do hope you're able to continue your sexual endeavors with your crew as you find fit. I will make sure to brush up on the ties between sexuality and your species. As for myself, however, knowing that I'll be approaching you in a vulnerable environment, I find it personally unethical to attempt to bed you or anyone else I will be overseeing."

She could live perfectly fine without sex—granted, she had gone 29 years without seeking it. Some small previews were one thing, and her own activities in her chambers were another, but she had latched herself onto the idea that she had to wait for the right person... if they existed. She didn't think much or little of more promiscuous or reserved people; sexuality was too diverse to set standards for it.

One thing for sure: she didn't want to entangle having to study the crew and having those thoughts resurface if they were ever intimate. "I do hope you don't take offense to my approach. It's just a matter of principle for myself, only. I'm in no position to project my approach on anyone."

"I understand your experience that makes you seek this kind of help, but I meant more of your current state. Not in the tone of a session—I meant my question in the tone of hoping that you're as well as you can be in this very moment. I trust you have your ways of finding your own momentary peace."

Xiana got on her feet and carefully pushed her chair in. She felt a strand of hair on her face, giving her the overwhelming discomfort of her appearance being unkept. She took a quiet breath, not wanting to seem distracted. "It was an honor to meet you, Captain. I look forward to working alongside you. Unless you have any other inquiries for me, I would appreciate it if you could direct me to any exercise center or area; I'd be very thankful. I'm yet to navigate this ship with confidence."

---

https://i.imgur.com/0L1zHGg.jpeg
◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​