USS Dark Fire (IC)

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0855

“Of course, Doctor. Is there anything else you need?” The Ship asked, generating a holo image of it’s avatar, thus giving her someone to look at instead of staring at the ceiling.

“You may wish to change the bedding of the mouse’s cage,” It informed her. “The biofilters are detecting an increase in urea from the mouse’s habitation.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

Already? She thought, worried. Normally she’d need to do a proper cleaning once a week. “Thank you for letting me know. Is he doing okay?”

Xiana wrapped up her notes, stored them, and cleaned her desk. She planned to share her knowledge at their upcoming meeting.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

As Lt Bumme and Lt Sol walked out of her quarters, Hora felt pretty good about her creative solution to the problem. As the door closed, she walked into her bedroom and laid down on her bed.

“Dark Fire… please evaluate my creative solution to the Lt Sol social interaction problem.” Hora asked.

“Captain, I did not hear your solution, your office dead zone unless you leave your bedroom door open” Dark Fire informed the captain.

“Oops, I forgot.” Hora said, then she explained what she had told both Lt Sol and Lt Bumme.

“You violated Lt Sol’s privacy multiple times by having Lt Bumme present during the counseling session. The probability of success that your solution will work is rate at 39%. This probability has a high degree of uncertainty due to the lack of knowledge on Croco-lamia species and their mating customs.”

“39% sounds like a good number to me. Much better than 2%” Hora replied. Suddenly she got a very serious look on her face. “2%... oh shit… that might work” Hora gasped as she got up from bed and ran out of her room.

Lt Sol

Zosh and Loka were back in her quarters, laying on her bed snugging and talking.

“No… I’m not going to apologize. Dr Marlowe stated she was impressed by how smart everyone was… and I just pointed out that made her the dumbest person in the room. I’m not apologizing for something she said!” Zosh growled at Loka

“What about what you ate?” Loka asked

“That is from my culture. I’m not apologizing for who I am” Zosh declared.

“Zosh… common on now. I know you… why did you order that meal?” Loka asked

“I wanted to upset the warmbloods” Zosh admitted “I actually don’t even like Begguk, not enough meat on the bones”

“That is what the captain wants you to a apologize for. You are expressing regret for something that you did or said that was wrong.” Loka explained

“But I wanted to piss them off or scare them. I want the herbivore to run from me in fear” Zosh said

“The whole point of the breakfast is to get to know people better, not piss them off” Loka pointed out. “The captain wants everyone to work better together. That will make this ship more efficient and more deadly. You want us to be more deadly. You took a vow to kill the parasite. You need a deadly ship to do that”

“I guess I regret screwing up the Captain’s breakfast. I’ll apologize for that” Zosh agreed

“Progress!” Loka said “That warrants a head rub” And she started to rub her head against Zosh’s… soon the big dinosaur was purring in pleasure…

Hora

“Dark Fire run the simulation one more time” Hora ordered. The simulation ran and received the same result. “Transfer the technical data to engineering. Also let them know I’ll be down there in two minutes to explain what I want them to build.”

Hora hurried out of the astronomy lab and headed for engineering. As she arrived in engineering she ran into Lt Frye.

“Lt Frye, I have sent you technical data on a means to close a wormhole to 2% of its current aperture. Which means the hole would not allow large ships through, only very, very small ones. I ran the simulation multiple times. It worked each time. The space probe generating the beam to close the wormhole to that size is powered by emission from the dark energy field surround the wormhole. It was based upon my scientific work in this field. Pretty cool, don’t you think?” She asked Lt Frye.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0830

“Captain that is all theoretical you understand. Simulations are great but if the energy of the wormhole differs from your simulations than we are looking at a disaster of either making it permanent or closing it completely.” The Lieutenant replied looking over the data.

“But it’s a good idea and well start gathering data as soon as possible. And the silver Parasite form is on board, and we’ll be going to Transwarp within the thirty minutes. We’re just completing some final phase corrections.”

“But we’ll be ready very soon,” she told the Captain looking at readings on a data padd. “And our weapons specialist is working on weapons to fight the intruder as well.”

“Travel time to the worm holes designated location is eight days at Transwarp. Three-three months at warp nine point nine nine.”

“Oh, and Captain. We analyzed the debris from the alien ship. They were using a power source I’ve never seen before, we could only detect it after their shields were down. They may not use Warp Technology like us, but a different method of travel.”

Frye to Araiza:
Sending data to the Weapons specialist Frye instructed him to build weapons based on the energy frequencies of the intruder. They needed to be able to disable, or destroy, the entities so that they couldn’t regenerate or be rebuilt.

Possibly a magnetic disruption or molecular destabilization. Maybe even a computer virus to infect the cells. Unless he had a better idea. She'd accept anything that worked. Even throwing rocks at it.​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

Upon receiving the new information, Araiza didn’t take long to order his officers to relocate. If he was planning to be more productive with the information, he hoped the chief would understand he needed his workspace for himself.

As he read over the data, the male ran over possible ideas over and over. Should he prioritize restraint or destruction? Find a way for both, perhaps on the same weapon? He returned to his screen, his pupils following from corner to corner time and time again while he came up with possible models. The assembly was always the simplest part—nearly two decades on the field allowed the man to recite mechanics in his sleep. It was finding the proper reactions for their unpleasant visitors that had been proving difficult. He was thankful for the incoming details; with his quick-moving fingers and focused eyes, he had more than enough inspiration.

Now, he only prayed he had enough time.

“Dark Fire, send a message to the chief on my behalf; start recording,” Araiza instructed, his attention remaining on his work. “Chief, this is Lt. Araiza. Gonna take a second to have some demos to play around with, but I have two ideas so far if you wanna come look them over in further development. Sending some blueprints now. Liking this magnetic aspect. I’d like to play with some HSbF6 if you’ll let me. Waiting on feedback.”

The first blueprint, labelled SB-M101, was similar in shape to an M7 spider, but its “legs” were made up of magnets rather than launchers. The illustration depicted the model in its inactive version and an “open” version, in which the center would allow acid to escape from the inside of the model, the interior lined with PFA plastic. Although both displays were large on the screen, their measurements indicated how miniscule they would be in reality. In a best-case scenario, microscopic.

The second model, AP-M3701, was marked as more delicate. Resembling a traditional burst-fire gat—at least for the ones they used regularly—the writings stressed the danger of being too close to the target when utilizing the weapon. Less intricate than his previous model, Araiza would so far consider it as a last resort defense. He still needed time to make it safer.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0915

Based on the materials, and security required for the weapons Araiza was working on she forwarded the data to Commander Reeves. Granted she had the security Clearance to authorize it but she was letting command know they were trying, and had several idea’s in progress.

So when the orders came down from the Commander to both Frye and Araiza releasing him to do what was needed, and granting him access to HSbF6. As long as he used the proper protocols.​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

As soon as he received his permissions, Araiza got right into crafting mode. The physical portion of the models didn’t concern him, he could have those measured and assembled in no time. The chemical portion was what made him nervous. He could handle them without an issue, but some anxiety was inevitable when handling and testing items that could melt through human skin.

For now, however, he happily hummed as he got to the first part of his work. It was the same old song that always came to mind when he was concentrating.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Lt Bumme and Lt Sol

Loka had fallen asleep after their sex, exhausted by the firm pounding Zosh gave her. However, when she woke up, Zosh was still in bed writing a letter, with pen and paper!

“What are you doing?” Loka asked still a little bit drowsy

“Writing an apology to Captain Hora.” Zosh explained “Sleepy head”

"Maybe if you didn't fuck me like an animal, I wouldn't be so exhausted," Loka countered.

"You like it that way," Zosh laughed as she smiled in agreement. “I like that sucking thing you did. Wow” He complimented her “Female Croco-Lamia have too many teeth to do that”

“Are you going write a letter to Dr Marlowe?”

“GRRR” Zosh growled in protest.

“Come on now.” Loka urged Zosh

“Ok, I’ll write one to her as well.” Zosh agreed.

“I think she likes written notes. Its quaint. I’d do an electronic one for the Captain.”

“Good idea” Zosh replied

Loka had a small smile on her face. She was thinking about what the Captain had told her about her power in the relationship with Zosh. She had changed his mind!

Zosh’s Note to Dr Marlowe

"Dr Marlowe,

I was rude and thoughtless. I apologize for going out of my way to upset you. It should not have happened. Experiences in my past caused my behavior, but that does not excuse my behavior. I will avoid this behavior in the future.

Sincerely

Lt Sol"

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

Every time Araiza managed to save some time with assembling on behalf of the ship’s robotic assistance, he was a little more thankful that he had ditched Earth. Back on land, the building of his first model from scratch with his bare hands would have been eternal. Now, some time later, he held the tiny draft of the weapon in his palm up to his goggle-covered eyes. It was yet to be filled, but he was testing its rotation and efficiency. He had arranged for the powerful magnets to be turned on manually—they’d be rather difficult to work with if they just stuck to every piece of metal in their path.

For testing, he tossed the model towards one of the nearby worktables, turning on the device as soon as it touched the surface. A large thud came from the contact. With the magnets still on, Araiza walked over and tried to pry it off. The size prevented other magnetic items in the vicinity from being drawn to it, but the strength was powerful enough that his attempt to remove the model resulted in the table moving instead. For his ego’s sake, he told himself he’d probably be able to somehow take it off if his arm wasn’t hurt.

“Good boy,” he gushed. He was never above personifying his flourishing creations. He returned to his screen and turned the magnets off. The device’s legs returned to the round body at the center.

Before requesting mass production, he needed to present his work. Before a demonstration, he needed the liquids that would dissolve the protection of their infamous parasite. Araiza knew what to do, but the realization that he was working with mainly one arm worried him. He couldn’t risk getting wounded, or worse—ruining the project he’d been so focused on.

“Dark Fire, any chance you can get me an assistant to come help me in our labs? Don’t get me an officer; I’ve had enough headaches today,” he called out, storing the first shell of SB in a pin-protected safe light enough to transport. He couldn’t afford any risks.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

After leaving engineering Hora made it back to the bridge.

“Captain on the Bridge” was announced.

“Officer of the deck, please give me a full report” Hora requested. Lt Harris came over and updated her on the status of repairs and preparation for trans-warp drive.

“Thank you. As soon as engineering is ready, jump to trans-warp” Hora ordered. Then she walked over Commander Reeves.

“Have I told you today, that you are a great XO?” Hora started with a smile on her face. “Your clever captain solved the Lt Sol problem… don’t ask me how… just be happy it is solved. And more importantly, I have come up with a way to open and close the wormhole. No need to close it permanently!”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0930​

“Greetings Captain, how does any of that make me a great Executive Officer?” Reeves inquired raising an eyebrow. “If anything that is simple aggrandizement disguised as a compliment to me.”

“Trans-warp capabilities on line. Engineering prepare for Trans-warp.” Reeves called over the comms. Looking over at Helm control he nodded. “The Word is given, Trans-warp.”

The main Holo display shifted out as the ship went to Trans-warp as the secondary view screen came on line, showing them a view from the front of the ship of the stars blurring past.

“Time to arrive Eight days three hours, Captain. Commander.” Helms called out.

“Hopefully it’s smooth sailing, Captain.” Reeves commented.

Dark Fire > Araiza​

“Do you require a living assistant, Holo-image with tactile protocols, or a cybernetic one?” Dark Fire replied.

L’Sa> Counselor Marlowe​

L’Sa Stopping outside the doctor’s office she confirmed that there were no appointments inside nor were any scheduled for thirty minutes.

Tapping the door chime she said her name.​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

He considered his options. A living person would definitely be more likely to create an incident or get on his nerves. “A cybernetic one. Thanks, Dark Fire!”

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

Once she had tidied up Scuti’s environment—and verified he was doing okay—Xiana had freshened up and returned to her office to review some of her paperwork.

The new presence surprised her. Had she had an upcoming appointment? It couldn’t hurt regardless. She left her desk to go greet the doctor herself. “Dr. L’Sa, how are you? Is everything alright?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0935

Dark Fire:​

“Compliance,” Dark Fire replied. “Your assistant will arrive shortly.”

Several minutes later the door opened as a woman walked in. “I’m here to assist you., Mr. Araiza. Or would you prefer I call you by Rank or first name?” she said looking at him. She looked Bajoran. Her rank was Ensign. Had the Ship made a mistake? Unlikely, but if it’s programming had been altered or corrupted?

L’Sa:​

“Yes, thank you for the greeting.” Dr. L’Sa replied. “I am well.”

“I have a matter I would like to discuss with you, in your professional capacity.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

Before he could be annoyed at his assistant’s presence, Araiza realized this must be the cybernetic in question. His frustrated premeditated look turned into one of realization. How peculiar.

He’d question it later. He didn’t have time to argue any glitches. “Araiza is fine. Suit up,” he instructed, handing the woman some protective gear. Alive or not, he wouldn’t risk any damage. “I just need some help with some substances, but I can’t afford any slip ups, got it….” Araiza lingered, waiting for her name.

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“Yes, of course. Please, have a seat,” Xiana said, assuring the door was closed behind them before motioning the woman to the chairs before her desk. Taking a seat herself, she slid her papers to the side. “Go on.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0940

Yito:​

“I’m Yito Seja,” she replied taking the protective gear and slipping it on over her duty clothes. “I’m qualified in any and all bio chemical and mechanical protocols.”

“As well as weapons design and construction.”

L’Sa​

“First, you inquired about Vulcan Neuro Pressure techniques, May I ask why?” She asked. “The second question can wait until the first is answered.”

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

He could’ve sighed with relief. A competent helper? Be still his beating heart. “Won’t be too elaborate, I just need you to help me line a container and help with a few things. Let’s go,” Araiza finished once he was in the appropriate attire. Holding the safe, he instructed Yito to follow him to the nearest lab.

He didn’t hesitate to get to work. “Get some ventilators going, we don’t want anything lingering in the air with us both in here. Grab two masks and some gloves,” he ordered, retrieving the model. He knew the items were something he’d have to reach for.

Meanwhile, Araiza revised some of the chemicals at their disposal, pleased to find a small vial of his requested substance waiting for him with multiple warnings. “Seja, gloves.”

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

She didn’t have a reason to not be honest. “I’m looking into self defense techniques, combat in general. I’m quite good at the ‘flight’ portion of self preservation, but the ‘fight’ could use some work,” Xiana explained.

“I’m hoping to learn as much as I can. Plus, building strength is crucial with flexibility. It’d be beneficial in my senior years.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0945

Yito:​

Even as he was asking for the Ventilators to be turned on she was already moving to do so before he’d finished. When she returned she already had masks and gloves in hand, though she didn’t need them specifically it would prevent residual contamination in the event that a hazard was engaged. Dealing with the elements in this room were hazardous enough that transferring anything outside would decimate crew in a matter of minutes. Depending on exactly what he touched and mixed, of course.

L’Sa:​

“I see. Vulcan Neuro Pressure is not a self-defense course, but a muscular meditative study. You seek Suus Mahna - which is a purely self-defensive form, after you have mastered that you can begin training on Sha’Mura – though I must admit that Humans have difficulty mastering the ‘Emptying the mind and soul of emotion’.”

“There is also the Tal-Shaya, a highly effective and deadly form which was disallowed and is currently only practiced by Romulans due to its aggressive and deadly nature.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

Araiza was impressed with the assistant’s efficiency, particularly with her speed. He slipped the gloves on and reached for the vial, carefully bringing it to the nearest table. “So, Yito Soja, where are you appointed typically? I haven’t seen the likes of you on this area of the ship,” he asked, his eyes skimming over some of the words on the container.

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“Suus Mahna would be ideal, then. I ultimately want to be able to defend myself if it’s ever necessary. I do appreciate you taking the time to explain the differences to me, and I look forward to your guidance,” she smiled. “Now, about that second inquiry?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0950

Yito:​

“Typically I’m in the biohazard unit or working In the containment zone of the Warp Core.” She replied. “Did you want someone with a different skill set, than what I have?”

L’Sa:​

“I can train you in Suus Mahna, if that’s what you wish.” She replied before continuing. “The second question is personal and professional. “Due to the biological nature our two species and their incompatibility to procreate natural I’m required to have a psychological assessment and evaluation to determine my capability, and qualifications, to have a child with the Commander.”

“If we were both of the same species this would not be required.” She added, annoyed over a bureaucratic tangle. “Hence, I will need a professional assessment, and a personal request that you not mention this to anyone, even the Commander. If this fails I do not desire for him to be emotional hurt.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

“Not at all. You might the most capable person for this, period. You wouldn’t guess the amount of im-“ Araiza cut himself off, remembering Frye’s request. His chest raised as he calmed himself down. A slight insult could easily spiral. “Nevermind. Any chance we have any PFA resin droppers?”

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

A smile began to spread in Xiana’s face, which she quickly contained. It was difficult; how could she not get giddy at the idea of a baby on board? The beaming dropped completely at L’Sa’s continuation.

“That’s just absurd. An entire process just to have children? You’re having a baby, not applying for a doctorate,” Xiana complained. Well, at least not another one. She leaned forward with some excitement. “I’m sorry, I’m just so happy for you! I won’t tell a soul, and I’ll help you however I can.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0955

Yito:​

“No I don’t,” she said as she turned to fetch the required instrument and several test tubes, just in case he wanted to mix chemicals. As well as a couple slides, for analysis of the chemical structure to ensure it met his requireed specifications. “Will these be sufficient?” she asked. "I also maintain the weapons of the MACO Tactical shuttles and their personal armament but not the standard armaments.

L’Sa:​

“The process is only required for cross species impregnation due to potential conflicts of genetic anomalies or separation of parents due to personal incompatibilities.”

“As Jordan, The Commander, and I have been wed for ten years I do not foresee the secondary event occurring.”

“From you I will need a complete psychological assessment of my compatibility to bear and rear a child of an inter species merging.”

“And if that is successful, I would then need a recommendation for our living quarters to be modified to incorporate a child’s nursery and eventual bedroom. For the physical, emotional, and mental health of both parents and child.”

“Although I am confused why you would be happy?” she added raising an eyebrow.​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

He took one of the droppers and slid his mask and goggles on, motioning for Yito to do the same. Staying silent to assure the ventilators were functioning, he placed the dropper on the surface. “Crap, forgot something. Can you hand me some scissors?”

“After that, grab the model. I’m gonna cut the top of the bottle off. Grab it and break down its components. Use our database if needed. When you’re done, I want you to make the same resin. Let me know when you’re done.”

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

She certainly was lacking on any maternal habits of the Vulcan species. Xiana made a mental note to research in her free time. “Yes, of course. While I’m not one hundred percent sure of how Vulcan mothers approach pregnancy, human maternity is something so wonderful if desired. Well, from a philosophical perspective. Human mothers have to be constantly cautious of their health, their womb, and often with the daily stress of life or other expectations. It’s sweet, but so delicate and often painful.”

She gave her a peculiar look. “Well, choosing to have a baby typically warrants celebration. I’m unsure if Vulcans just see it as a means to reproduce but a new life is exciting. Just imagine that little cutiepie!”

“I guess that leads me to my first question, off the record. Are you looking forward to being a mother? Are you excited?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870527.0955

Yito:​

Handing the requested scissors to him before collecting the model weapon. After that she went to work making a new resin cap for the bottle and returned a few minutes later with the completed item.

L’Sa:​

“Excitement is not a word or expression commonly expressed by Vulcan’s of either gender. However I do find the prospect of being a mother, interesting as well as confusing and irrational.”

“The Vulcan gestational cycle is 56 weeks. Most human/Vulcan conceptions approximate 48 weeks. And my diet is already regulated as are the atmospheric protocols of our residence.”

“I do not wish for any celebrations, they are uncomfortable social gatherings for Vulcans as they tend to be loud and emotional events.”

Making a mental note she’d ask Dark Fire what a ‘cutiepie’ was at a later time.​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

Upon seeing the cap, Araiza rolled his eyes. He inhaled, prepared to chew off the assistant for not delivering the resin in liquid form before the chief’s words echoed in his head. Whether he wanted to admit it or not, he needed the help.

A deep breath later, he spoke. “I should’ve been clearer. I just need the resin, but…” It almost felt like he had to force the words out. “….good job on making the resin in general. Redo it in liquid form and bring it to me with a funnel small enough to fit the opening of the device.”

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

The Vulcans truly were a reserved species. She and Reeves really were two peas in a pod. Xiana would simply have to wait for a baby shower some other time.

Her eyes widened. Twelve months? If Xiana had a preference for humans before, it was practically solidified with that mention.

She clasped her hands together on the table, her eyes sincere and voice soft. “Doctor, if you don’t mind me asking… why do you want a baby?”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“Let us hope there is no more trouble. 8 days gives us some time to finish repairs and prepare a few surprises for our little parasite friend… or friends. And Commander Reeves, I was just trying to spread a little positive re-enforcement with my comment to you. You are great and you know it. If you ever wonder, just have Dark Fire list all your accomplishments. It is a long list. I’ll be in my quarters.” Hora said as she departed the bridge