USS Dark Fire (IC)

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“There’s certainly been other situations,” she agreed, “but I think my lack of… intense concern comes from not having had other established relationships. I’d say, other than the two of you, K’alena and one of the Red Section barkeeps might be my closest confidants.” She nearly counted her pet, as depressing as it sounded, but had recently rehomed him to one of her patients. It seemed that animal therapy was more fruitful for a family on board

Xiana resisted the urge to look around the room, quickly realizing what a mistake it was to have a more intimate place be exclusively for work. She would be revising that. The woman swallowed. “If I haven’t taken it yet, it’s from an excess of concerns. I guarantee it’s not from a lack of affection.”

The new figure in the facility had caught the counselor’s eye, primarily from her not being familiar. “But that is something we can discuss an evening sometime. Who is that woman lifting weights? I do not recognize her.”

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

“Dark Fire, any chance you can ask Cook if she wants to grab a drink?”

The display, naturally, answered literally, to which Araiza reworded his statement until the AI confirmed it would send the request to the ensign. Araiza didn’t have suggestive intent—sure, he wasn’t blind, but he knew it’d likely be more chaotic for his ultimate goal.

As he counted another of the 481 bolts he had sprawled on one of the metallic tables in his shop, he could hardly keep his desperation in. Every passing day of his leave was more torturous than the previous one. He itched to be able to create again, with all tools or resources at his disposal. His computer’s memory was becoming overwhelmed with his consecutive ideas that were yet to see the light of day.

Ideally, he’d be back by now, but the continuous ship occurrences delayed his process to the point of desperation. He was more than ready to get back to work. One more senseless day would be catastrophic.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0635

Glancing over at the other women L’Sa took in the grey skin suit clothing the women wore as she looked at her face. Not recognizing her L’Sa looked back at Xiana. “I don’t know. Which is not unusual as there are approximately 30,000 personnel aboard including all pilots, Officers, Crew, Combat, Chiefs and Star Fleet Support staff. Not counting civilians or attached family.”

“How may I, or Jordan, alleviate your concerns?” She asked. “Also you have not returned for your martial arts or language lessons. Is that due to your concerns?”

***

“Dark Fire, inform Lt. Araiza that I will meet with him later today,” Reeves said as a message displayed informing him that Araiza’s Emergency Medical Leave was ending today. “He and I will have drinks and food for lunch.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

Having become a routine athlete—and attempting to become better informed about those in her usual spaces—Xiana did desire to know more. Recognition finally widened her eyes when the woman’s familiarity came in, having seen her entering an abode with one of her more infamous patients. She averted her eyes at the realization, returning them to L’Sa’s face. “That’s reasonable.”

Xiana cleared her throat. “The two of you have gone to great lengths in my consideration, but I think my qualms are something only I can solve for the time being. Aside from that, I’ve actually been reaching out to other lessons or sources to work on material arts and linguistics as well.”

“I’ve also developed an interest in intergalactic law. It has taken up my free time as of late,” she shrugged. “I know it isn’t my field, but I think I like management. I like having a sense of authority.”

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

Upon receiving the message from the commander, the man briefly wondered if he was being secretly spied on for use of the facilities off duty. The commander likely had something else to do, though. Who would be mad at a man doing inventory and cleaning?

He asked for a time and place but maintained the latter offer with the woman. He did have a few questions on the away trip.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“I agree—no need to violate the Prime Directive,” Hora said, though her tone suggested she really wanted to. “But we can still take a look. Let’s cloak and check it out.”

she squinted at the sensor readout.“My gut says if this planet was colonized, whoever did it had warp capability. I mean, yes, there’ve been exceptions, but those are usually the ‘oops, we accidentally uplifted a civilization’ kind of stories.”

She zoomed in.“Those structures you’re scanning—they’re organic. A living house. That’s either brilliant engineering or the world’s worst homeowner’s association.” She tapped the console again. “And there are barely any of them. If this was a settlement, it might’ve been abandoned. Or everyone moved because the houses kept trying to photosynthesize on them.”

Ensign Cook

“Dark Fire, remind me never to have so many HiiKii drinks again,” Riley groaned. “I swear those things should come with a warning label. Or a priest.”

“Yes, Ensign Cook. I will remind you,” the AI replied. “You also have a new message: a request from Second Lieutenant Alfredo Araiza to meet you for drinks. What shall I send as your reply?”

Riley blinked. “Second Lieutenant Araiza? I don’t think I know him. What does he want?”

“To go out for drinks with you,” Dark Fire said, in the same tone one might use to announce the weather.

Riley sighed. “Sure, fine, I’ll go out. But remind me not to have too many drinks this time.”

“Yes, Ensign Cook. I will remind you,” Dark Fire said. Then, after a beat:“For efficiency, would you like me to create a standing reminder titled ‘Stop Making Questionable Beverage Decisions’?”

Riley groaned. “Just… stick with the usual reminder.”

“As you wish,” Dark Fire replied. “Though statistically, the usual reminder has not been effective.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0640

Reeves:​

“The civilization could have developed on one planet and moved to others in the same system without developing warp technology.” Reeves said as the Dark Fire cloaked and moved in system as it approached the planet with the most lifeforms.

“There are a number of potential probabilities Captain. Without further data they are simply theories.”

Kavela:​

Increasing the gravimetric pull of the weights, Kavela continued her workout through several more repetitions before moving to a treadmill and going for a run. With the settings she had it was an upward run on a heavy planet. Her native planet was heavier than Earth, but less than Vulcan, so she was working at maintaining the discipline she had before her long sleep. And increasing her endurance and strength.

Watching the Klingons working out was annoying with their planet being heavier than Romulus they were naturally stronger than her.

L’Sa​

“As you wish, but the offer of language and martial arts is still open as well if you ever desire a more personal approach. Though the holodeck is quite capable of teaching you as well.”

“If you’d like, you are welcome to join us for meal this evening.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“The holodecks have been splendid, so I think I’ll maintain that method for now. I’m able to practice or train when I wish,” Xiana explained, quickly bending over to grab a few things she had left on the mat on the ground.

Straightened, she tucked her bottle under her arm. “I’d love to. Please let me know the time. Ideally after eighteen hours. I have to make some progress with my studies if I want to be fully caught up with my work tomorrow. Dif tor heh smusma,” she said, although her busy hands didn’t allow for the farewell gesture. With that, she left for her quarters.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0645

“Long Life and Prosperity,” L’Sa replied with her hand up as Xiana left.

Turning she looked at the previously mentioned female before departing. Finding out who she was wouldn’t be difficult. There weren’t many Romulans aboard the ship.

***

Sending the Captain’s breakfast meeting out to the standard compliment Reeves left the Bridge in the hands of the Deck Officer.

***
Captain's Mess
Waiting for the others Reeves stood looking out the window as they moved at sub-light speed to the planet. Minutes later L’Sa, K’alena, Grissom, and Jovovich arrived.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
Hora stepped into the captain's hall saw Reeves, L’Sa, K’alena, Grissom, and Jovovich gathered around the long table.

“Good morning, everyone,” she said warmly, then angled a smile toward Commander Reeves. “Our Science Officer, Chief Medical Officer, MACO Commander, and our new Security Chief—all in one place. Quite the assortment you’ve assembled.”

She gestured for them to sit. “Please, make yourselves comfortable. Before we begin, a few ground rules for this breakfast. This is a social gathering, not a briefing. You’re welcome to talk about work, but I encourage you to wander further—hobbies, ambitions, political philosophies, embarrassing childhood dreams. Anything is fair game. Just try not to provoke your fellow officers… like a particularly dinosaur I know did.”

A few eyebrows rose. Hora continued, unfazed.

“Now, in Orion culture, we have a saying: ‘Something must be given if something is to be received.’ We’re a transaction‑minded people. Not in the crude sense of currency—value can be anything. Pleasure, reputation, beauty, revenge, a well‑timed compliment, a secret, a favor owed. We don’t accept charity, and we don’t offer it. Everything has meaning to someone.”

She shot Reeves a sly look. “If I had my way, I’d have arrived in one of my more flattering outfits. Sadly, Starfleet frowns on captains dressing like dancers from the Orion Syndicate. So instead, I’ll offer something else: one of my passions.”

She lifted her chin. “Pool. An Earth game. A delightful one.”

“Dark Fire, display a standard pool table.”

A holographic table shimmered into existence beside them, full‑scale and perfectly rendered.

“As you can see,” Hora said, circling it with the ease of someone who’d spent many hours leaning over its rails, “the table has six pockets. The goal is simple: strike the white cue ball so it hits an object ball and sends it into a pocket. But the variations—eight‑ball, nine‑ball, ten‑ball, straight pool—each have their own strategies, their own rhythms.”

She tapped the holographic rail affectionately. “I’ve even competed in tournaments. My best finish was seventh place on Jupiter Station. Not bad for someone who learned the game in a bar where the tables were usually missing at least one leg.”

Her smile widened. “Now—your turn. What passions are you bringing to the table?” Hora giggled at her play on words.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0700

“Unfortunately I have received word that several of those invited cannot attended due to prior engagements that couldn’t be delayed without a direct order.” Reeves replied to her compliment of those attending.

“As for embarrassing childhood dreams, they are the dreams of a child and will be left in the past. However for recreation I participate in Meditation, Parrises Square, Tri-dimentional Chess, Anbo-Jitsu and I’m attempting to learn Kal-Toh.”

“I’ve partaken of a few matches against the Commander in Anbo-Jitsu and Parrises Squares,” Jovovich added. “Or I’m watching old Earth video dramas specializing in fear and terror. I believe they were called ‘Horror Movies’.”

“I don’t allow myself to partake of recreational activities, except in bed.” K’alena replied with a belch. “And I don’t use holograms for that.”

Dr. L’Sa raised an eyebrow before looking at the Captain. “Kal-Toh, Tri-dimensional chess, Strategema, and Kadis-kot. With meditation nightly or when Jordan is unavailable for other activities.”

“If I understand this game from earth it’s based on velocity, angles of deflection, and geometry. Quite a simple game actually. It isn’t much of a challenge for Vulcan children. Due to it’s innate ease of mastery, Vulcan’s don’t play it.”

“Unlike my colleagues I enjoy a simple game of poker on occasion, when I can allow myself the time.” Dr. Grissom said taking a drink of Orange Juice.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
Hora laughed warmly as Dr. Grissom finished his comment about poker.

“Poker? Now that is a game after my own heart. Deception, intuition, risk… delightful.” She lifted her glass in his direction. “Doctor, if you ever organize a game, I expect an invitation. I promise to lose gracefully. Once.”

Her gaze slid to Commander Reeves.“I knew most of your hobbies already, but Kal-Toh is a new one. A game about imposing order on chaos—yes, that tracks. I can see exactly why it appeals to you.”

She shifted her attention to Jovovich.“Lieutenant, horror movies? I tried one once. I spent the entire time rooting for the monster. I’m told that’s not the intended experience.”

Then to K’alena, with a raised brow.“Major, bedroom recreational activities are very much my jam… but we’ll stay off that subject for the sake of breakfast decorum. Still, thank you for your honesty.”

Finally, she addressed Dr. L’Sa with diplomatic grace.“And thank you, Doctor, for that Vulcan critique of the human game of pool. I imagine that logic could be applied to many pastimes. Even so, mastery—of anything—has its rewards.”

Hora looked around the table, her expression softening into something genuinely appreciative.

“A ship runs best when its officers know each other. Every one of you brings something to the table. Value isn’t always obvious, but it’s always there. Hearing who you are outside your duty makes us stronger inside it.”

She gestured toward the spread of food.“Now—let’s enjoy breakfast and keep learning about one another.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0705

As they started eating and talking the Officers ate lightly for the most part, Except K’alena and Jovovich, both of whom ate with a bit of gusto as they packed on meat and eggs like it was a last meal. But then they were highly active in their roles and both had training in their departments after breakfast.

Reeves ate some bacon, eggs, and hash browns while L’Sa ate oatmeal and fruit. The Doctor seemed to be the odd one out with a selection from across the board, though only small parts of each. Giving his palate a well rounded experience of everything available.

As they continued eating they chatted lightly avoiding anything that could lead to embarrassing, innuendo, or off color comments. Everyone figured The Captain would do enough of that on her own.

Except K’alena, she was blunt and to the point enough to speak her mind when asked a question, no matter who asked, or the topic. But then she was a Blooded Klingon Warrior and a M.A.C.O.

And from the way she ate and belched you’d think she was drinking Blood Wine, but it was only Raktajino, though she did add caramel and chocolate to it.​

 

[sereneotter00]

“Are you sure I won’t get in trouble for helping you with this?” Araiza asked, slowly following behind the counselor into an empty holodeck. He was surprised to hear of the woman so early during the day, especially with her request for him to help her with some basic armory education.

Frankly, Xiana wasn’t certain. She assumed learning how to operate weapons from the weapons technician was a logical move, although she wasn’t sure if he was allowed to have access to any weapons. Would he be facing consequences if she mentioned it was solely educational? “If you do, I’ll take the fall. I do have the expectation to at least know how to use a phaser.”

The man toyed with the pistol in his hand. He was thankful he had access to the items. “Alright then. Only because you’ve actually been a real help these last few weeks. And because I need your psych evaluation to go back to my job.” It had already been turned in, but he didn’t crave admitting that he appreciated the doctor’s friendship.

The doors closed behind them, and Araiza began to review the mechanisms and regulations of the metallic item in his hand. Xiana listened carefully, eyes focused on every aspect the lieutenant pointed to. The two wore the newest versions of Araiza’s defensive suits, appearing more like more flattering scuba suits that ended at the top of the neck. He figured it was an ideal time to try them out… and to see if he got the female measurements correctly.

Done speaking, Xiana tightened her ponytail. “Should I review the pieces of the phaser? Perhaps take it apart and put it back together? Repeat the safety precautions?”

“I think safety’s a good call,” Araiza nodded, pointing to a corner of the holodeck. “Go stand over there.”

“For what?”

“Safety demonstration,” he explained, having already begun to walk away.

Choosing to trust the man, Xiana did as told, stopping at the corner the man had directed her to. Araiza took a couple of minutes to get to the diagonally opposite corner in the room. A long distance between them, he turned to face the woman, who stood straight with her hands behind her.

“Will you be requesting some targets to practice?” Xiana asked across the space.

“No,” Araiza answered, raising his arm and firing at the woman before she could contemplate what he was doing. She immediately collapsed, having only let out a shocked gasp.

Araiza nonchalantly walked over to the woman, who was yet to fully leave her stunned state. “I’ll give you a second before we get back to it.”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
Hora sampled a few bites of the human breakfast fare—scrambled eggs, a sliver of toast, something sweet she couldn’t quite identify. She never ate much, and never needed to. One of the perks of being Orion: her body absorbed solar energy through her skin, a quiet biological fact that made big meals unnecessary

She leaned slightly toward Dr. Grissom, seated to her right. Commander Reeves was on her left, but she’d already talked to him enough. Grissom, on the other hand, was still a mystery she intended to crack.

Despite her best intentions, the conversation veered into familiar territory.

“You must be thrilled,” Hora said, swirling her spoon idly. “The HiiKii abilities—regrowing limbs, reviving the dead. That’s a goldmine for regenerative medicine.”

Grissom didn’t look up. “It’s fascinating, yes. But the science team is handling it. I’m not directly involved.”

Hora’s brow furrowed. “Doctor, I think you should be. Just in case I lose a limb in some heroic act and need it regrown on the spot.”

Grissom finally glanced at her, dry as ever. “Or we could try not losing limbs in the first place.”

Hora’s laugh was short, a little too loud. She masked her irritation with a smile. “Fair point. I didn’t mean to provoke you. Let’s pivot.”

Grissom didn’t miss a beat. “Why do you tolerate Lieutenant Sol? He’s racked up more injuries than a Klingon sparring match.”

Hora’s expression softened, but her voice held firm. “Because the USS Dark Fire needs every kind of soul. I believe there’ll come a day when we’re all grateful he’s aboard. Commander Reeves, our counselor, and his girlfriend are helping him adjust to Federation standards. It’s a process.”

She paused, then added with quiet conviction, “You could ask the same about Major K’alena. And I for one am glad she’s part of this crew.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0710

Dr. Grissom:
“As his species is a member of The Federation, and he’s a member of Starfleet, and an Officer, one should be able to conclude that he’s already adjusted. And The Major has not placed multiple individuals in the Infirmary with serious injuries.”

“Granted she has placed individuals in the Infirmary, but not as many as the Lieutenant and he’s been here for far less time than her.”

“I do hope he will be beneficial to the Crew, but right now I have my doubts.” The Chief Medical Officer commented dryly. “If he could stop inflicting major injuries I’d appreciate it. Save those activities for the Holograms.”

“As for the HiiKii Xenobiology is studying the tissue samples and once we have a full bio-genetic makeup completed it will be processed by the Dark Fire and I’ll do extensive training on the Medical Holodeck.”

“I’m actually surprised that the HiiKii weren’t invited to have a representative remain aboard, the sociological information would have been beneficial, as well as the ability to further study the biological nature of the species.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
“Doctor, rest assured—I have no intention of letting anyone tear off my limbs,” Hora said lightly. “And I’ll take your opinion on Lieutenant Sol under advisement.”

Then her tone shifted. It wasn’t loud, but it carried a weight that rippled through the room. Conversations stopped. Every ear tilted toward her.

“But make no mistake,” she continued, voice edged like a drawn blade. “USS Dark Fire is a warship. And to borrow from a famous human… I fully intend to take her into harm’s way. You and your medical team need to be ready for far more than a few broken bones from one angry dinosaur.”

Major K’alena slapped her palms together, delighted. “Blood, piss, body parts on the deck—YES. I LOVE IT.”

Hora blinked, realizing she might have overshot the mark.

“Apologies, everyone. That came out a bit hotter than intended. Let’s finish breakfast and then get to our day jobs.”

“No, Captain,” K’alena countered, practically vibrating. “You said it perfectly. Let’s rip the throats out of the next species that challenges us!”

Hora fixed her with a look. “Major. Our mission priorities are as follows:

1. Do no harm—meaning we don’t create more enemies than we already have.
2. Learn everything we can about the silver parasite—its weaknesses, its behavior.
3. Find allies willing to help us fight it.
4. Build positive relationships wherever possible.
5. Study the Andromeda galaxy—its cultures, its people, its history.
6. And for the love of temporal physics, avoid mangling the timeline.

We only go to battle when it serves these priorities.”

K’alena grinned like someone handed her a new weapon.
"I understand" She said as she winked at Hora.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0900

“Captain, we’re within visual Range of the planet. Altitude 100,000 Miles. Geosynchronous orbit over the largest habitation. Cloaking field is at operational capacity. They can’t see us.” Reeves said as he reviewed the data displays.

“Transporters, or shuttles? I’d recommend transporters as they will have a reduced probability of being noticed. And we can extract our people faster if trouble arises.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
Hora was relieved to be back on the bridge—away from the breakfast, away from the awkward small talk, and especially away from Dr. Grissom. Orions were supposed to excel at charm and diplomacy, but somehow she’d missed that genetic memo. Grissom had a talent for getting under her green skin, and she’d let him.

In hindsight, she mused, she should’ve just tried seducing the older human. That would’ve gone smoother.

Of course, Commander Reeves would have noticed immediately. Then she’d be treated to another earnest lecture about “appropriate conduct” and “professional boundaries.” Maybe the breakfast had unfolded exactly the way it needed to. At least her rapport with Major K’alena seemed to have thawed a little.

Reeves’ voice pulled her back to the present as he finished his report on their newly established orbit.

“Excellent,” Hora said, settling into her chair. “Yes, transporters make the most sense. And I think this away mission is yours.”

She turned to the handsome executive officer, a hint of challenge in her tone.

“Who do you intend to take with you, Commander Reeves?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0905

“Your restraint at the Breakfast was rather remarkable Captain,” Cmdr. Reeves admitted, complimenting her in his own way.

“I’ll take someone from Xenobiology, other than Dr. L’Sa she’s expressed need to remain with the HiiKii samples for the time being.”

“As the planet seems to be mostly flora and flora/fauna hybridization I feel it may be safe to take Lt. Sol. There may be less things for him to attack, or try to eat.”

“I’ll take Lt. Bumme from Medical, and Mr. Araiza. It will give him a chance to get off ship and stretch his legs. And a chance to see an alien planet and species on an initial interaction. Maybe he’ll start to understand protocols.”

“Also, Have you seen the report I’ve sent you concerning Mr. Araiza? Captain Marcus always dealt with Officers and I dealt with everyone else. He’s been on Emergency Medical Leave. I’m supposed to be having Lunch with him today to discuss his return to duty, but as I may be on planet at the time, you may need to meet with him.”

“Much like Mr. Sol, Mr. Araiza has been aggressive towards his work associates, although his simply overly rude and not physically aggressive, Yet. And there is his lack of respect for Rank. But it’s all laid out in the report.”

***

Having updated her linguistic files to include the HiiKii species as well as the others they’d downloaded from the HiiKii and the other ships, Yito was on a holodeck practicing her weaponry and martial arts in the security programs.

Using a lightsaber she moved through the advanced stages at one of the higher difficulties. Slicing through the holographic enemies with lightening reflexes and precision cuts. She was still getting used to using the weapon to deflect the incoming energy shots.

She might be able to perceive ‘The Force’, but she was determined to prove to Ryn that she was more than capable of mastering the Lightsaber.

***

Throwing the Security Officer over her shoulder K’alena turned and brought her Bat’leth around in a low sweep, taking her in the lower leg and knocking her off her feet.

Thudding hard on her back the Security Officer rolled before the Major could follow through with an overhand strike, her foot connecting against the Major’s ankle and knocking her down as well.

The two rolled on the floor for a few minutes as they each vied for dominance. Soon enough K’alena was pinning the woman to the mat before they kissed.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora listened to Commander Reeves, still riding high from his compliment about her “restraint.” The more she turned the word over in her mind, the less certain she became. Which restraint? Not snapping at Dr. Grissom? Or the far more heroic restraint of not seducing half the breakfast table just to break the tension?

She decided—charitably—to assume he meant the first one.

Then Reeves mentioned Alfredo Araiza, and Hora had to fight the urge to roll her eyes hard enough to sprain something.

“Commander,” she said, keeping her tone level, “I’ve read the reports. And yes, I think it’s time I meet with him. But he still doesn’t have my confidence. I’m not comfortable granting him access to explosives or weapons.”

She leaned back slightly, letting her words settle. “If he wants to earn that trust, he can start by observing how this ship’s leadership operates. We balance mission success with keeping our people alive. And when risks are required, we take them alongside our crew—not from behind a console.”

Hora paused, then added with a pointed softness, “And perhaps he could start with something simple. An apology. When I’m wrong, I own it. I say I’m sorry. It’s not complicated.”

A breath escaped her—longer than she intended. “My apologies, Commander. I didn’t mean to get that worked up. I’ll meet with him.”

She shifted the conversation before her temper could circle back. “I like your away team. Have you determined whether the planet is warp‑capable? The genetic engineering behind those structures looks more advanced than anything our specialists can manage.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0910

“Not as yet Captain, there has been no detection of any Warp signature. But I must admit we didn’t detect Warp signatures in the system that contained the planet Yaran either. They may use a different style of faster than light transportation. Or they may have possessed it at one point in time and no longer do.”

“They may have suffered a technological reversion. Just as Earth did have the Third World War and the Eugenics War.”

“Sensors are still have maximum range and are scanning all known frequencies for extra-planetary communications. There are no satellites, bases, space stations, or debris in the regions are the planets.”

“A very fascinating type of development,” Reeves commented. “Or they simply colonized their own system and never developed warp technology. We shall see.”

After finishing with the Captain he went to his office and sent the directives to the appropriate individuals before heading for transporter room 2 himself.

“Alright everyone, this is a discreet away mission. Avoid contact at every chance. They have no warp technology but from what we can tell their buildings are alive. Biological in nature. This is making detection of the citizens rather complicated. Tread lightly, quietly, and don’t shoot anything unless it’s trying to actively eat you. A fist fight is not cause. A drawn blade is not cause. Cutting your arm is not cause. Trying to cut your throat is cause. Setting five. That should be enough to disable and remove any recent memories without permanent damage.”

Hopefully he was direct enough that he didn’t have to give specific orders to specific individuals.​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ ALFREDO ARAIZA ▻​

The use of an outfit more appropriate for unexpected travel felt quite… strange. Araiza hadn’t touched ground since his last visit to Earth nearly two years ago. Back then, he was closing the last of his and his late spouse’s home’s sale. He couldn’t have left the planet any quicker.

He looked at his image in the nearest reflective surface inside the transporter room. He didn’t know why he was being called to go on a mission, much less while he was still on leave, but he knew he owed the commander a favor. He’d assume they’d be even once it was done with.

He at least had the comfort of looking good in his current attire.

Nature identification wasn’t something he excelled at, either, but perhaps he could encounter some useful instruments or inspiration if he was expected to be on a leash. A deep breath made his defined shoulders raise a centimeter. With his arms crossed over his chest, he turned to the others gathering at the location, eyes resting on the commander.

“Reeves, if you were planning to leave me at this place to get me out of your hair, you’d tell me, right?” he said lightly, taking careful steps towards the man. Perhaps more movements would help shake off the nervousness he was concealing.

“Real talk, what’s going on, man?” Araiza asked. “Why’d I get asked to come?”

 

[milkmaiden38]

LT Sol and LT Bumme
Zosh and Loka listened intently as Commander Reeves laid out his warning—move carefully, avoid unnecessary contact, and keep weapons holstered unless absolutely required. When Lieutenant Alfredo Araiza posed his question, they held back, waiting respectfully for the commander’s response before speaking.

Loka stepped forward first.“Commander, is our mission strictly a planetary survey? Should I prioritize any particular flora or fauna?”

Zosh followed with his own contribution.“Threat level is currently low, so standard Federation protocol permits open exploration,” he said, tone steady and formal. “I’ll provide security support as needed—call out or tap your comm badge if you need help.”

He hesitated, then added with professional caution, “That said, Commander, you can raise the threat level if you prefer tighter control. I can keep the entire team within visual range and adjust our formation accordingly.”

Zosh’s posture relaxed slightly. “I’ll also assist Lieutenant Bumme with her survey whenever my security duties allow.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870611.0910

“Mr. Araiza, there are protocols for addressing an Officer. Especially in formal settings.” Cmdr. Reeves replied looking at the man.

“No, you will not be abandoned on the planet. No one will be. As for why you in particular have been invited, its so that you can have an opportunity to see another planet. A chance to be off ship without using a holodeck. And everyone needs the experience of being a first on a new planet.”

"Lt. Bumme, please prioritize the structures and any potential technology. Mr. Sol, General Directive one forbids contact with a pre-warp species. If we cannot determine if they have reached that level of technology, we cannot make contact. Hence, Open Exploration is more limited.”

“Consider this partially Exploration, Technological determination, and an exercise in self-control.”

Stepping the transporter pad he waited for the others then gave thee control officer a nod. The distinctive whine filled his ears as they were disassembled and converted into energy, sent to the planet and reassembled.

Blinking at the unfamiliar light he looked around as he pulled out a tricorder and started scanning the surrounding area.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Lt. Sol and Lt. Bumme

The away team shimmered into existence on the fourth planet of the Moby‑X1 double‑star system. The air was thin but breathable, carrying a faint mineral tang, and the planet’s low mass gave every movement a light, buoyant ease—barely sixty percent of Earth’s gravity.

They materialized in a forest clearing beneath a delicate canopy of tall, aspen‑like trees. Sunlight from the twin stars scattered through the leaves in shifting ribbons, illuminating a riot of plant life carpeting the moss‑soft ground.

Heavy branches sagged under the weight of enormous blossoms—petals in vivid pinks, reds, and yellows that stood out against the pale green foliage. Bird‑like calls echoed overhead, sharp and musical, while somewhere deeper in the forest a distant roar rolled through the trees, low and resonant.

Lt. Sol and Lt. Bumme swept their tricorders in practiced arcs.

“No threats within range,” Sol reported, his voice steady. “And it appears we arrived without detection.”

Bumme nodded, eyes still on her readings. “All flora and fauna are naturally evolved. No signs of genetic manipulation.” She paused, finally looking up to take in the scenery. “The trees and moss are beautiful.” A small laugh escaped her. “Not the most scientific observation, I know.”

Loka stepped forward, gesturing westward. “The structures we detected from orbit are that way.”