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Eerin had spent a hectic shift in the Science Department. There were several projects and experiments that had been flagged for attention. Eerin had begun setting up the experiments, and seeing to the projects. Some were obsolete, and unnecessary. She deleted those from the files. By the time all the experiments were up and running, she had worked past her time.
"Computer. Contact me if there are any changes of note in any of the on-going experiments." The beeping noise it made, confirmed her request. She decided it was time to unwind, and to find a drink. She left the Science department,and headed to the turbolift. When she got in, she simply stated.  "Left Eye."  The turbolift stopped, and Eerin got off. She headed down the corridor, until she found what she was looking for. She entered the Left Eye, and looked around. Moving slowly through the people, she made the bar, and ordered a Denebian Night. It was one of the more powerful drinks available. Eerin thought what she'd been through, she needed it. Serving the drink to Eerin, he raised a brow in question.
"I know it's none of my business, but may I ask why this strong stuff?" In a friendly and conversational tone.  Eerin turned and stared at the man addressing her. Shrugging her shoulders, she spoke.
"Why not? The first day of actual duty, and I spend it setting up experiments that should have already been done. The time frames on some of them are critical for information. I'm afraid that some of them will be moot, by the time the experiments have run their course....." She stopped talking, and took a sip of the black liquid. Gasping for air afterwards, she tried to swallow, then finally achieved it. In a cracked voice, she said, "Smooth. My name's Eerin. What's yours?"
He smiles slightly at her reaction of the drink.
"Full name's Centurion Sa'Lo'Kin, but most only call me Sa. So, it appears you had a stressful day, eh? You should look at the recreational programs." He smiles yet again while he cleans some glasses. "A few hours of recreation can do wonders."   Eerin pushed the glass a little bit away from herself. She looked Sa'Lo'Kin in the eye.
"What kind of recreational programs are we talking about here? My last assignment was rather restricted in there recreational programs we were allowed to enjoy."  He chuckled slightly and leaned down behind the bar. He produced a data-pad and slid it over the bar to Eerin.
"Well, that's the standard-program. But if you want something more unusual, talk to me. I might have something up my sleeve. As you look at the Data-Pad, there are several courses offered, many with the subject of Martial Arts and that stuff. Lower on the list are several arts courses. There's also some sports.
"Well, I know, that's all standard, but as I said, if you have something in particular, just ask me. Eerin leaned in towards him and said in a low voice.
"Have you got anything where I could dissect a few Klingons and Cardassians? I've always wondered what made them work." She took another small sip of the drink, and almost didn't gag this time. She gazed back at Sa, to see what his answer would be.
"Hmmm...I could arrange that for you. Any preferences?" He smiled slightly, eyes narrowing in concentration. Eerin smiled at the man. She decided that she liked him.
"None at all." She took the glass, saluted him with it, and upended the contents. It burned, seared, and otherwise set off tiny novas in her stomach, but Eerin managed to keep it down, and not pass out. She sat the glass open end down, and looked at Sa."So, when do you think I can take this little....relaxation trip down fantasy lane?"
"Come back by this time tomorrow. Everything will be set by then." He smiled slightly and took the glass from the counter. "I don't think you want another one, eh? You don't appear to be used to drinking."
"Tomorrow it is, Centurion." Eerin's eyes crossed, then straightened up. She looked at the glass, then at Sa. "You're right. I'm not use to drinking. But, I've got to learn, sometime. I've got to learn to at least tolerate the stuff...No? I don't want another one. Tonight, anyway." She sighed, becoming tired. "Well, I guess I'm heading to my quarters...Got any idea where they are?" She made a little hiccup, and looked surprised.
He chuckled slightly and nodded.
"Wait a second." He rummages about behind the bar, finally producing yet another data-pad. He scans over it slowly. "There we are. Those are your quarters right there." He held the data-pad in front of her face. "You think you can manage to find them alone, or do you want me to escort you to your quarters." A slight grin on his lips.
Eerin took the padd from Sa, and began looking at it. Frowning a little, she turned the pad half way around, then looked at it again. She moved her head away from it a bit, shook it, then tried to concentrate on what she was seeing again. Finally, sighing, she said.
"This is great. One drink, and I'm unable to function......" She looked at Sa, with a miserable look on her face. "Can you take me there?"
"Well, sure." He gestures to someone walking around serving drinks.
"Hey, take over for me for a minute!" he shouts and then gets from behind the bar next to you. "Well then, just follow me." He walks in a normal pace out of the bar, leading the way through several corridors.  Eerin tried to remember the route they were taking. As she followed Sa, he could hear her mumble.
"Right, two corridors, left, then three corridors down......right again."   After a while, he stops in front of a door that looks just like all the others on the corridor.
"There you are. Anything else I can do for you?"  Eerin's face was taking on a decidedly green cast. She looked at Sa,  then at the door. She palmed it opened in a hurry, stood in the doorway and looked at him in desperation.
"Have you got anything for this?" She ran into the quarters, and found the head. She just made it, as the drink made a forceful exit from her system. She had a few more empty heaves, then was through. Leaning back from the head, she began to wipe her mouth. It tasted like a legion of Marines had trooped through it.  Looking slightly worried, he follows you inside and rummages through some pockets.
"Here, take these." He shoves two pills in your hand. "Old but trusted thing against such stuff." He smiles slightly, takes a towel from a rag and helps you. "Come on...I'll help you."  Eerin gratefully took a helping hand up. As Sa helped wipe her face off, she found a glass, filled it with water, and downed the two pills Sa handed her. He guided her back into the bedroom area and sat her down on the bed. She fumbled with the opening on the harness and couldn't get it to open. So pushed her hands away, and undid the clasp. He helped her remove the harness, and placed it on the end of the bed. Eerin glanced up at him.
"Are you always this nice to people you've just met?"  He shrugged slightly, continuing to help her.
"Well, you see, I was new once, too. I know how it feels to be new and I also know how cruel alcohol can be when you are not used to it." He chuckles slightly.   "Besides, It's pretty boring down there in the Left Eye today, so I am glad about some other things to do. And I am even more happy when they involve people like you, who actually appreciate the help." Glancing around the room slowly, he shrugged. "I guess I should be off now. I mean..." he gestures to her clothing which isn't really that much at the moment, and smiles slightly. "If you need me you know where to find me." With that he nods slightly and walks towards the door.  As he reached the door, Eerin spoke.
"So,....do you really have to go?"  He stopped in his tracks, turning around.
"Well, no, I don't HAVE to, but I thought you might want your privacy for now." He shrugged, waiting for her to speak next.  Eerin moved over to the edge of the bed. She looked at the floor, then back up at Sa.
"I've had my fill of privacy. That's why I went to the Left Eye in the first place. So I wouldn't have to be alone. Do you mind staying with me a while longer?" She got up, walked over to the closet, retrieved a short robe, and put it on. She turned back to the Centurion. He still had that puzzled look on his face.  "I don't bite, Centurion. Not much, anyway. And thanks for the pills. They seem to be working. I'm not as sick as I was a while ago. Tell me......" And she walked over to where he stood. "How can I get more of those pills....just in case." She moved away, and sat back down on the bed again, waiting for his reply.  He chuckles slightly and walks towards you slowly.
"Well, there are two ways to get those pills. One, is to ask me and wait for an answer. And two, is to search me for them. I have them with me." He grinned slightly, making the comment sound much more like a joke.
"That sounds like a challenge to me. I've never been known to back down from a challenge." Eerin got up, and stood in front of Sa. Slowly, she walks around him, saying, "hummm....." She puts her hands behind her back for a moment, striking the classical pose of someone pondering something. Finally, she stands in front of him again. Smiling, she advances on him.
"I offer no resistance." Said Sa as she got within inches of him. She began removing his harness. Once it was off, she checked it for secret pockets. Finding nothing there, she dropped the harness on the floor, and began feeling his tunic top for where they might be.

Continued below...

Centurion Eerin Telok, Head of Science and Centurion Sa'Lo'Kin, Left Eye Head, RSW Sunheart
"N'ko!" a hand touched his shoulder. He jumped and turned over, pulling away from the touch instinctively before he recognized the voice.
"Lights," said Ael.
"NO... no lights!" said N'ko hurriedly. He didn't want her to see his face... not like this. She came and sat on the edge of the bed!
"Lights... on dim!' she said softly.  N'ko sat up and slid off the bed. He went over to the sink and splashed some water on his face. "What's wrong?" asked Ael.
"I hate to say this but for a while back there I thought that darned Tal Shiar agent suspected me," he replied. "But you are above reproach!" said Ael," your record speaks for itself."
"Try telling HIM that!...that's the last time I volunteer to assist the Tal Shiar with anything!"
"So what did they do to the prisoner?"
"They tortured him to death!"
"That's too bad!"
"Why?... don't you think he deserved it?" asked N'ko
"No one deserves to die like that!" replied Ael, "Antook least of all!"
"He was a traitor, Ael!... are you siding with him?" asked N'ko.  Ael stood.
"NO...oh no...I am not siding with him....but it was such a waste!"
"Are we still on for dinner?" asked N'ko.
"I don't know... I don't think you are up to it!" replied Ael.
"Forgive that small show of weakness...I am a lot stronger than you think!"said n'ko.
"Well in that case... I'll go prepare a meal for us...in my quarters!" she announced. "I'll be there!" smiled N'ko. Ael turned to leave.
"Ael...thanks!" said N'ko.  Ael smiled back at him.
"My pleasure High Centurion!" she said with mock politeness.

High-Centurion N'Ko Head of Pilots, RSW Sunheart
T'Zaq tucked her hair behind her ear for the umpteenth time in the past few hours. The Rihannsu holodecks might not be very advanced when compared to Federation standards, but they sure could simulate heat well. The temperature in the simulated Main Engineering was sweltering by any standards. This was, of course, caused by a simulated lockout of the environmental controls as a result of a Borg attack, but it was still just as unpleasant. T'Zaq, being a Vulcan, could take high temperatures without a problem, but the humidity was unbearable. It made her sticky all over.
"Eerin Tolak, please get me the microwelder." In a few moments, T'Zaq had the required tool and was beginning to manually modify a few of the main computer connections. The Borg consistently hammered on the door to Main Engineering, trying to get in. "There. I've modified the frequency of the computer access code link.  It should take them a while to figure that one out."  Suddenly the door caved in, and a small army of Borg came stalking in towards the group of engineers. One of them grabbed T'Zaq by the neck.  She could feel the needlelike fingers beginning to pierce her skin, but she ignored the pain and stood firm, staring it in the face. No words were needed, and they would not have done any good. This was the moment of truth.   Suddenly, the moment was over. The Borg vanished. Main Engineering  vanished. All that was left was the glowing gridlines of the holodeck,and the mechanical whoosh-clunk of the door as it opened. Even with the low resolution and unconvincing characters of the virtual world,  T'Zaq was surprised to reenter the real world. All in all, the test had been a most engaging adventure. She wondered if she had passed.

T'Zaq, Head of Engines, RSW Sunheart
As Aoj was walking down to the Tal Shiar part of the ship a message came through from Command. Aoj walked to the nearest interface and accessed the message. In a brief text-only message it was evident that the Empire was now going to war with the Dominion also. With two wars tearing away at the Empire Aoj wasn't sure if any of them would survive. And the thought of being the ally to those Klingon brutes that several months ago she had killed made her sick. The Federation on the other hand was much better than the Klingons, they at least had brains, at least most members of the Federation did... Aoj reread the message once more ten continued down to the Tal Shiar section.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
Y'Hto'mit had just gotten off duty. He usually went sraight to his quarters after a long day, but today he decided not to. A lot had   happened today, the Trifain war had started and a lot of rumors were  going around that the Tal Shiar had gotten them into the Dominion war.  He needed a walk. After about 20 minutes everything on deck 31 was looking pretty much the same. So he decided to go down by the holodecks  but they were all in use so he decided to go on up to his quarters.

Centurion Y'Hto'mit, Head of Helm, RSW Sunheart
Eerin woke up by hearing sounds in her quarters. She rolled over onto her side, and saw So trying to get dressed in the dark.   "Computer, low lights." Eerin said. Instantly, the lights came on, and So turned around to face Eerin.  "I've got to check on the Left Eye." Eerin streatched, and slowly got up. She picked up her discarded robe, and put it on. "Allow me."  She said, as she picked up his harness and brought it over. He allowed her to slip it over his head, and buckled it. He streightened it, absently. Eerin ran an appreciative hand over his chest. She looked up at Sa.  As he slowly wandered to the door, he turned around and smiled again. "Well, considering I had no time to program the adventure for you, I guess your visit for recreation will have to wait a little longer. Sorry for the inconvinience." He smiled slightly, turned around and stepped through the door.

Centurion Eerin Terok, Head Science Officer, and Centurion Sa'Lo'Kin, Head of Left Eye, RSW Sunheart
Aoj had given up on the Tal Shiar letting her into their deck. They had locked to doors and nobody was responding to her request. Aoj walked away from the door rather angry with the Tal Shiar. On the way to her office she started thinking about the ship, as one thought lead to another, her mind fell upon T'Zaq. Suddenly she remembered that T'Zaq had probably finished her test weeks ago. Aoj quickly walked to a terminal on the wall and pulled up the records of the test. It appeared she had done very well, an 854. Aoj sent a message for T'Zaq to come to her office so she could tell her the results of her test.  Aoj sent the message and walked off to her office.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
Eerin smiled up at Sa. She looked at the food, then back up at him. With a smile on her face, she said, "Does that offer include you, too? And how are those bites and scratches? I tend to get carried away at times."

Eerin smiled up at Sa. She looked at the food, then back up at him. With a smile on her face, she said, "Does that offer include you, too? And how are those bites and scratches? I tend to get carried away at times."

"Hmmm, sure it does. And about those marks." he shrugs slightly. "Don't worry. At least I know I didn't just dream it." he chuckled quietly and looked at Eerin silently.

This man was certainly interesting. She put the padd down on the table, and returned the gaze, with a smile. "Thanks, Sa for the program. I'll run it tonight, and let you know what I think of it. When are your off duty hours? Perhaps we could do something togather?"

"Off duty hours? Well, I chose them usually. It's not as if most of the crew cares what time it is when they want a drink or something to eat. So I am here almost all of the time. Heck sometimes I forget where my quarters are." he chuckled lightly and leaned on the table. "But yeah, we could do something together if you want to. You know where to find me."

Centurion Eerin Terok, Head Science Officer, and Centurion Sa'Lo'Kin, Head of Left Eye, RSW Sunhear
High Centurion N'Ko is in his quarters, practicing on the Romulan version of the terran bagpipes.  He is creating quite a racket. It can be heard all the way down to the end of the crew quarters.  The occupant of the next room bangs on the other side of the wall.
***************************
T'Zaq returned to her quarters accompanied by a loud wailing sound. As the door slid open, she could see Michael laying on his bed, trying to shield his ears from the awful noise. She felt sorry for the poor human - the sound was probably messing up his mind. She walked over next to him and touched his shoulder. Michael jerked up, startled. He removed his hands from his ears and winced.

"Awful stuff, isn't it?" he said, raising his voice above the din.   "Sounds like a wailing bagpipe."

T'Zaq nodded, grimacing. "You know what we Rihannsu do," she continued, sounding a little bit pretentious, "We *fight back*."

The two comrades-in-arms grinned evilly at each other. A few moments later they had gathered up various hard objects laying around the room and were loudly banging on the walls and yelling at the tops of their voices.

T'Zaq, Head of Engines, and High Centurion N'Ko, Head of Pilots, RSW Sunheart
Djurel exited the shuttle to find only Sub-Centurion Tereth there to greet him.

"Welcome, Centurion Tegarren. I am Tereth, your Assistant Head of Weapons and Security. If you will follow me, I will show you to your quarters."

Djurel silently looked his assistant over for a few seconds, enjoying the puzzled look on Tereth's face as he made him wait for a reply. Then, "We will go to my office. Lead the way, Sub-Centurion."

As they walked through the maze of corridors and rode the lifts to the Security Central Command decks, Djurel felt a twinge of anger that neither the Commander nor the Tal Shiar Major had been there to welcome him. He asked Tereth where they were.

"The Commander is busy at the moment and I do not track the whereabouts of the Tal Shiar," Tereth replied.

Djurel stopped, and after a couple of steps so did Tereth. "From this moment on, you will watch the Tal Shiar's movements aboard this ship and report them directly to me, do you understand?"

Djurel watched the inner conflict play out in Tereth's eyes. Who to fear? It was easy to fear the Tal Shiar, that was their purpose, to cause fear and maintain obedience. But this new Head of Security and Weapons was unlike any other being Tereth had ever encountered. The only report on Djurel Tegarren that Tereth could access indicated that this shape-shifter had spent time with the Tal Shiar; training with them.

"I understand, Centurion Tegarren."

*Hmmm,* Djurel thought, *not the submissive answer I was looking for.* As they finally reached the Security Deck, Djurel put Tereth to another test.  "You will instruct the Commander and the Tal Shiar Major that I would like to see them in my office at their earliest convenience." They had reached Djurel's office. He nearly smiled as he saw the shocked expression on Tereth's face.

"Centurion Tegarren! I cannot . . . that is, we do not have the authority to . . ."

"Do as I say, Sub-Centurion." Djurel growled. "You must impress neither the Commander nor the Major from this point forward. Your position, and indeed your life, depends on how well you serve me! Understand?" Djurel didn't wait for an answer, he turned and entered his office, leaving his assistant bug-eyed and wide-mouthed in the corridor.

Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
Commander t'Edi was sitting in her office when a lowman from security walked in and rather nervously ordered her to meet with the new head of security and weapons. Aoj looked down at her desk, then back at the lowman, and then she slowly stood up. And followed the lowman, to reason for him to get in trouble just because she wouldn't come, she need to meet the new head anyway. Once they arrived at the centurion's office Aoj walked in and had a seat beside her Tal Shiar counterpart across from the new head, and waited for him to begin.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
Djurel Tegarren was amused.

Tal Shiar Major Eh'rian was the first to arrive at the Security Office, with Sub-Centurion Tereth at his heels. *So,* thought Djurel, *Tereth makes his choice clear who he will serve.*

The Major was cool, at first. Out came the usual insinuations and half-threats: "Be wise, Centurion, obey me or lose the security of your position." And, "The Tal Shiar know you, Djurel Tegarren, perhaps better than anyone on this ship. You've spent time with us. You know what we could do to you should you choose wrongly." Even, "You wish to monitor our movements aboard the Sunheart? So be it. The Tal Shiar did not teach you everything. We shall monitor you as well. Make your decisions wisely, Chameloid. My authority has no limits."

All this time, Djurel sat across the desk from Eh'rian, unmoving, unblinking, unresponsive to the Major's prodding. *By the book,* he thought, *though I've seen better.*

The Major's anger grew as Djurel refused to respond. "I am NOT to be summoned like an animal! Tell me what you want or I shall leave!" Then standing, "You have made a grave error, Centurion. I shall deal with you on my own terms." Eh'rian tried to leave, but as he approached the door, it did not open. "You dare?" the Tal Shiar Major hissed.

Djurel motioned to the empty seat. Eh'rian glared at him for a moment, then his expression softened as a conniving smile spread across his face. He regained his composure and sat, quietly, and nearly as motionless as Djurel. Tereth's forehead broke out in a sweat as he watched the two strong-willed men stare each other down.

The door slid open and in walked Commander t'Edi. The Lowman who accompanied her stood beside Tereth. The Commander sat in the empty seat next to Eh'rian and said nothing. She did not look at the Tal Shiar Major or even acknowledge his presence. Her only action was to raise a questioning eyebrow at Djurel.

*Good,* thought Djurel. *This one has class. This one is smart.* "Commander," he nodded in her direction. "Major," he grinned at Eh'rian.  "No doubt you question my summons." Neither responded. Good. "I am sure you've both had time to review my history so I won't bother you with boring details. Suffice it to say, I have accepted this posting to the Sunheart upon direct request from the Praetor. I do not know how this department was run before and I do not much care. I am the new Head of Weapons and Security now and will run it as I see fit. I require your presence to tell you both to your faces that no one is above Romulan law. And while I am here, I am the enforcer of those laws." Djurel looked at the Major, "Not the maker of them, the enforcer of them." Now he looked at the Commander.  "I am a Romulan above all else, above being a Military man, above being a former Tal Shiar operative. Have you any questions?"

Djurel sat back and waited to see who would reply first.

Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
After Aoj had settled into her seat Djurel began; "Commander," he nodded in her direction. "Major," he grinned at Eh'rian.  "No doubt you question my summons." Neither responded. "I am sure you've both had time to review my history so I won't bother you with boring details." After several minutes he concluded with,  "I am a Romulan above all else, above being a Military man, above being a former Tal Shiar operative. Have you any questions?" After a moment Aoj stood, looked at Djurel, and said, "As long as you stay within the law and remember who is ultimately in charge of this ship, I am pleased to have you onboard. I hope your actions prove to be worthy of you words. Perhaps later we can speak of security matters in a more private place where certain people," Aoj briefly shot a glance at Eh'rian then back at Djurel, "cannot listen. Unless you require my presence, I will be going now"

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
-----Security Office-----

The Commander stood to leave after welcoming Djurel aboard. "Unless you require my presence, I will be going now."

"By all means, Commander. I would like very much to converse with you privately. Contact me at your convenience, of course." Djurel manipulated the console before him as the Commander strode towards the door. It slid open without hesitation and Djurel watched the proud Commander walk out with her Lowman. He then focused his gaze on the Major.

Any joy in Eh'rian's tight-lipped smile was negated by his smoldering eyes. The Major stood, and wordlessly crossed the room to the door. Tereth stood to follow and looking at Djurel, shook his head ever so slightly.

After they were gone, Djurel stretched his arms over his desk, morphing them so that they were longer than usual. His hands reached below each of the seats and removed two small devices. He inserted one into a tricorder and observed the findings. *And so I build my own database on this crew,* he thought to himself. *I shall see how biased the Head Medic's records are, at least the ones I have access to.* He would begin making modifications to his office and quarters tomorrow. As he had suspected, the Tal Shiar forces would prove to be one of his biggest obstacles; no sense in giving them free access to his professional and personal space and information.

The Commander, on the other hand, seemed everything his database on Romulus reported: loyal, hard working, and honorable. Doubless she would not approve of his clandestine scanning of her and Eh'rian. Nevertheless, Security procedures called for it, no matter how he procured the information.

Aoj t'Edi would contact him soon, he knew. She would expect him to take bridge duty on the same shift as her. He looked forward to their private meeting.

Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
After Aoj left Djurel's quarters she decided to stop by the Left Eye for a quick bite of food and the chance to see how the crew was taking the wars. It had been a long day, the Dominion war, T'Zaq's promotion, a new head of weapons and security, a headache, and to top it all off, she was having a bad hair day. Aoj walked into the Left Eye, she didn't come down here enough. She decided she'd wait awhile to eat, the view was wonderful and she needed a little time to relax. Aoj sat at a small table by the wall. After a few moments of looking at the stars she pulled out her disruptor. She had always loved disruptors, so beautiful, so powerful, and so Romulan. As she stared at the weapon her mind wandered to her collection of disruptors, and then to the family members those had belonged to, and then to her family, her dead family.  With a sigh she kept her tears back, she hated the Tal Shiar, everything about them. They had cost the lives of thousands of Romulans all because of vengeance for Ahree's mistake. They may be good for the Empire as a power in the galaxy, but not for the people behind the Empire. Aoj put the weapon away and returned her gaze to the stars speeding by.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
N'ko got off the bed. He decided to take a shower. He stripped off his casual clothing and placed them in the replimat. Then he took out his uniform and laid it out on the bed. He then ran a tub full of ice cold water. Nothing like a nice cool soak in a cold tub to cool down his hot Romulan blood he thought. He streached out his body and laid back, closing his eyes. Suddanly, there was a knock on the door.   "Who the hell could that be at this hour?" he thought.  He stepped out of the tub stark naked and reached for a towel of minuture proportions, wrapping it around his dripping torso as far as it could reach.
He left a trail of water across the carpet as he went to answer the door.

High Centurion N'Ko, Head of Pilots, RWS Sunheart
As the bansheelike wail came to a crescendo and stopped, T'Zaq and Michael ceased their percussion on the walls. The silence that ensued was almost deafening. Then they looked at each other and collapsed in a fit of laughter.

"I have not had... so much fun... in years!" gasped T'Zaq in between giggles.

"No kidding!" grinned Michael.

As the laughter died down, T'Zaq got a mischievous look on her face.  "If my ears heard right, I believe the noise came from directly next door. Perhaps I will confront the musician myself." She padded out the door and over to the next cabin. After repeatedly pressing the door chime, she finally heard footsteps coming toward the door. It slid open, revealing a tall, dripping wet Romulan male wearing only a small towel.

"Oops, sorry. Wrong place." T'Zaq said airily, and walked away before he could say anything.

T'Zaq, Head of Engines, RSW Sunheart
"Hey!" N'Ko called and the embarrased T'Zak disapeared back into his room.  Damned , he thought, getting me out of my tub for nothing.  N'Ko tossed the towel on the floor and was about to step back into the tub when he got a message asking him to pickup Centurion Solara from the Sillia prime station. He swore under his breath but dried off quickly and got dressed in his uniform and went to his office to prepare a flight plan.  "Computer, subspace message to Centurion Solara on Sillia Prime station.  The shuttle craft will be there in one hour!"   He went down to the docking bay and prepared his shuttle for flight.  The craft slid noislessly out the bay doors and into the dark night.  Within an hour he was orbiting Sillia Prime station. He contacted Centurion Solara. "Centurion Solara please prepare to be beamed on board,"

High Centurion N'Ko, Head of Pilots, RWS Sunheart
Sub Centurion Solara was waiting on Silla Prime Station for the Shuttle that would bring her to her first assignment the Imperial Warbird Sunheart. "Sub Centurion Solara we received a Sub Space message from the Sunheart they said the Shuttle will be here in one hour" said the Base Commander.   "Understood" replied Solara

1 hour Passed by

The shuttle from the Sunheart has arrived the Computer announced. Solara picked up her things and walked towards the Shuttle Bay. She walks into the Shuttle

"I am High Centurion N'ko head of Pilots on the Sunheart" said the man inside. "Sub Centurion Solara Assistant Head of Weapons and Security" replied Solara. "Nice to meet you Sub Centurion.

Over the Shuttle ride back to the Sunheart High Centurion N'Ko explained some things about the Sunheart and the Protocol aboard her. They then arrived at the Sunheart. High Centurion N"ko escorted her to her Quarters.

Sub Centurion Solara, Assistant Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
Aoj stood up for the table. The staring out the window had been relaxing, but she had to be on the bridge, they were getting within 15 minutes of Outpost 704 and the rest of Isis Fleet, the fleet the Sunheart had been assigned to for the next few weeks. Aoj wished she had a chance to eat a little something. Aoj stood and made her way for the door, at the door Aoj glanced around the room taking what could be her last look at free time for quite awhile, Commanders were given very little free time during times of war. The turbolift was only a few feet from the Left Eye doors so Aoj quickly made her way to the bridge.  Centurion Ege stood up from the command chair as Aoj entered the room.  She motioned for him to stay put as she entered her office. Once inside she let out a long sigh, knowing that the next few days could be very stressful. After a quick drink of water and another calming sigh, Aoj stepped back onto the bridge. Ege stepped down as Aoj made her way up to the command chair. After a quick message to security asking how they were coming getting the weapons ready. Aoj stared at the view screen for around five minutes. T'Fel brought Aoj out of it by putting High Commander t'Ehof of Outpost 704 onscreen. Although surprised Aoj did her best to show no surprise. Aoj stood immediately and sligthly bowed her head, t'Ehof returned the gesture and then allowed Aoj to sit. 
"Commander, Outpost 704 welcomes you and your ship." 
"It is out pleasure High Commander."
"There will be a meeting on the Isis in three days when the rest of the ships arrive. In the mean time your crew is free to visit our Outpost if they wish."
"I will have them informed."
"Very well, I will see you in three days...t'Efoh out."  Aoj sighed and had a quick message sent to the crew informing them of their semi-shore leave. It looked like Aoj would have a few more days to get ready. She'd probably need it. She needed to take care of a few things anyway. Aoj walked back to her office and contacted T'Zaq, it was time to inform her of the latest test results.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
-----Security Office-----

Centurion Djurel Tegarren finally found the last of the Tal Shiar listening devices in his office. A total of twenty-one "bugs" had been installed throughout the main security office, everyone of them standard Tal Shiar issue. Djurel smiled as he placed them in the replicator and watched their matter dissolve in a swirl of energy to be stored for later usage. "That should give Major Eh'rian a good case of gas," he thought aloud.

His office was nearly completely modified. His own scanning devices were cleverly installed as well as a few surprises, should anyone dare look where they weren't suppose to.

It had been almost a week since his meeting with the Commander and the Major. In that time Aoj t'Edi had been cautious; she was one with whom one's respect must be earned. Djurel understood this, he'd spent much of his existance proving himself to his superiors.

Eh'rian, on the other hand had been cold, calculating. He played the role of the Tal Shiar senior officer to the hilt. Djurel's actions infuriated the Major and soon, Djurel expected, the Major would act on his anger. Already he had transfered Tereth to his side. No longer was Tereth his Assistant Chief of Weapons and Security; now the Sub-centurion was Eh'rian's right hand: a position that swelled his chest with pride, a position, Djurel knew, that was typically short-lived. A message arrived from the Commander, inquiring on the status of the weapons. Djurel sent a reply that all weapons were at ready and at the
Commander's disposal.  Commander Aoj t'Edi had arranged for a new Assistant Head of Weapons & Security to be brought onboard. Djurel looked over Sub-centurion Solara's file that the Commander had transferred to his computer. In typical Military fashion, it revealed little to nothing. He hoped by now that the Commander would have enough trust in him to send him the entire file, but didn't hold a grudge against her. This sharing of information was by-the-book.

Another communication from the Commander arrived, informing the crew that they had three days of rest and relaxation at Outpost 704 before they would be required to join the Isis Fleet. Djurel assumed a large portion of the crew would take the Commander up on her offer and transport to the outpost. He himself would not. Undoubtedly there would be drinking, eating, sex, and general festivities which Djurel chose not to share with this crew, for now. Besides, there was still work to be done. Until his new assistant arrived, he would have to remain vigilant in the event Tereth decided to try to impress his new Tal Shiar Major.

It was near the end of Third shift. First shift would start soon and Djurel would be required on the bridge. *Time for a nap,* he thought to himself as his form shimmered and changed to it's natural orange-ish fluid state, pouring himself into his replicated gold bucket. His last thought before drifting off to sleep was that he looked forward to meeting his new assistant.

Centurion Djurel Tegarren,Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
They then arrived at the Sunheart. High Centurion N"ko escorted her to her Quarters.
"I am sure you'll fine your quarters adequate," said N'Ko.
"I am sure," replied Sub Centurion Solara. Assuming an invitation that was not proffered he walked into the room behind her. She threw her bags casually on the sofa.
"To whom should I report High Centurion!" she held his gaze.
"No need to be so formal. You may call me N'Ko... all my friends do. You'll report to Centurion Djurel Tegarren, head of weapons and security." said N'ko. She nodded.
"Well .. I'll leave you to unpack. Perhaps you'll join me later in the left eye for a drink?" offered N'Ko.
"Perhaps!" said Solara.
"Later then," N'Ko left the room and headed for his office.

High Centurion N'Ko,Head of Pilots, RSW Sunheart
-----Djurel's Quarters-----

The new Assistant Head of Weapons & Security, Sub-centurion Solara, would be arriving today, Djurel reminded himself. This was good. His department needed more people above Lowman rank. It made delegation of responsibilities easier. First shift came and went without incident though Djurel noticed an increased amount of stress in Commander Aoj t'Edi. No doubt she was consumed by the operation before them.

Djurel retired to his quarters for another quick "nap". He found that by dividing his rest periods, when he had to return to his normal fluid state, into several short "naps", he did not have to spend a prolonged time in his container regenerating himself. Only once every eight days, he would spend an entire 16 hours regenerating.

Of course few knew of his need to return to his natural state. It was when the door to his quarters slid open that Djurel knew the Tal Shiar had sent a spy, or perhaps an assassin to deal with him during his rest period.  With cat-like grace, the intruder slipped into Djurel's darkened quarters and waited until the door shut. For several moments, the figure did not move, allowing his eyesight to adjust to the dimly lit room. In one hand he held a disruptor and in the other a hand held sensor; both sweeping the room in search of his target.

Djurel remained motionless, watching the intruder's actions, waiting to see if he could be found.

The trespasser seemed to aquire his target and began moving silently toward Djurel's sleeping quarters. At the entrance to that room, the figure stopped and aimed his disruptor at the golden container and fired. In a flash it and everything in it vaporized.

Pleased with himself, Tereth removed his hood and lowered the disruptor.

Too late he realized his error as his peripheral vision caught the last second of Djurel's transformation from chair to Romulan. Before he could turn and fire, the cold grasp of Djurel's hand solidified around Tereth's wrist and jerked downward hard. The disruptor clattered to the floor.  Djurel spun the traitor around and struck him across the face with his free hand. "Poor choice," he growled at the stunned Sub-centurion. "I had hoped you would have proven yourself wiser."

Tereth seemed to regain a modicum of composure. "It is you who are the fool," he nearly spat out the next word, "shape-shifter." The hard features of Tereth's face matched his words. "You are nothing. We will remove you and put in your place someone loyal to the Tal Shiar. You will take me to a holding cell and charge me now, O mighty Head of Security. I will not remain in your custody for long."

Djurel smiled. It was a smile that sent a twinge of fear through Tereth's chest as surely as if he'd noticed a Regulan blood worm writhing its way into a vein. "What a shame you didn't take the time to get to know me, Tereth. You would have found that your loyalty to the Military and thus to me would have been rewarded with no less than your life and certainly with more perks than the Major has provided. Of course, the opposite is also true, as you will discover. You have crossed me, and thus have betrayed the Military and Romulus as well. For that you will pay. Yes, I will take you to your cell, eventually. But first, I will 'interview' you here. In my quarters. In the manner I was taught by the Tal Shiar. Be welcome, Tereth. You will be here for some time, I think."

Tereth's eyes grew wide with astonishment, fear. He struggled vainly to free himself from Djurel's hold.

Djurel's hands turned fluid and an orangish tentacle snaked around Tereth's neck. It squeezed slowly, firmly until his eyes rolled back. "Sleep well," Djurel growled as he lifted Tereth's unconscious form onto the table in the room. After activating a restraining force field around the table, Djurel left his quarters for his Security office.

Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
-----Security Office-----

A Lowman stepped up to Djurel's desk and stood at attention.

"Yes, Lowman Threhn?"

"Sir, Major Eh'rian reports his assistant," the Lowman nearly sneered, "Tereth, is missing. The computer does not show his presence on the Sunheart, and no unauthorized transportations or shuttles have been recorded. Should I . . ."

Djurel cut him off. "Advise the Major I will give his request my personal attention."

The Lowman saluted, "Yes, Centurion." Djurel returned the salute, dismissing him.

Djurel's computer monitor blinked a message that his new Assistant Head of Weapons and Security had arrived. High Centurion N'ko himself had been dispatched to transport Solara to the Sunheart. "Computer, send a message. To: Assistant Head of Weapons and Security, Sub-Centurion Solara. Greetings Sub-Centurion. I am Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security. Welcome aboard. Please report to my office for mission briefing and shift assignment. Tegarren out." The computer chirped, indicating the message was sent.

Sub Centurion Solara was in her Quarters after she arrived. The computer bleeped indicating that she had a message. "Play Message" said Solara.
<Greetings Sub Centurion. I am Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons
and Security. Welcome aboard. Please report to my office for mission
briefing and shift assignment. >

"Well now is as good a time as any to report for duty" thought Solara. She left her Quarters and headed for the Security Office. When she arrived she said, "Centurion Djurel Tegarren, I am Sub Centurion Solara reporting for duty as ordered".

Djurel stood from behind his desk. "Please sit, Sub Centurion, welcome to Weapons and Security." Djurel looked at Solara with a critical eye. A good Assistant could help make or break a department. Time, of course, would tell how good Solara would be. "So, Sub Centurion, tell me about your past experience."

"Well I just graduated the Romulan Naval Academy back home, but I can say my mother was a Warbird Commander and I picked some things up from her."
"Good. The Academy is a proud Military institution. It imparts the wisdom of the many graduates that came before its present students." Djurel smiled at his new Assistant. "No doubt you graduated from the officer's training as well. How else would you arrive here so young with a Sub Centurion rank?" He paused at his rhetorical question and smiled again at her silence.

Lowman t'Ruhk interrupted them.

Djurel waved her over. "Lowman t'Ruhk, meet Sub Centurion Solara, Assistant Head of Weapons and Security." Djurel paused as Lowman saluted Solara.

t'Ruhk stood at attention and spoke, "Centurion, here are the reports you requested."

Djurel took the small device from the Lowman and extended it to Solara. "These are the shift schedules and current status reports on our mission, the weapons and security. There are some issues that t'Ruhk and her team are currently working on which I'd like you to become familiar with.  Particularly the disruptor power couplings. Their peak operating efficiency remains at 89%. I have not had time to give them my personal attention. Make this your top priority to increase this percentage to a respectable level. Also review all personnel shift schedules and modify them, if needed, for peak performance. I will remain on First Shift for bridge duty. You will take Second Shift."

He turned to look at t'Ruhk. "Lowman, from this point on you will report to Sub Centurion Solara." t'Ruhk looked at Solara.

With a nod from Djurel, Solara informed t'Ruhk, "You are dismissed, Lowman."

Djurel stood, as did Solara. "I'll expect your reports on the assignments I've given you, as well as daily reports on weapons and security issues status. Carry on, Sub Centurion."

Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security, and Sub Centurion Solara, Assistant Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
Solara just finished with her meeting with Centurion Djurel Tegarren. She has a number of assignments to work on now. Solara started to read one of the pads the lowman had given her, it contained what they did to try to increase Disrupter efficiency. She looked over the pad for a good half hour before getting an idea. She headed off towards Engineering to try something her mother taught her when she was aboard her Warbird.

Solara stepped into Engineering and saw the Head of Engines Centurion T'Zaq. <Salutes> Centurion Tzaq I am Sub Centurion Solara Assistant Head of Weapons and security I have an idea on how to get the Disrupter Efficiency Ratings up at least 3 or four percent" said Solara. "Proceed" said Centurion Tzaq. Solara then walks up to the console and begins her modifications. She notices Centurion Tzaq watching her. After 45 minutes of Modifications and Rerouting Power Solara finishes.

"Computer what is the efficiency Rate of the Disrupter couplings?" Solara asked. (Disrupter Couplings at 93% efficiency) responded the Computer  "good" replied Solara. "How did you do that?" asked Centurion T'Zaq"
"It was a trick my mother taught me on her Warbird sir" replied Solara. <Solara salutes> Solara then leaves Engineering

Sub Centurion Solara, Assistant Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
-----Security Office B-----

"Personal log, Djurel Tegarren. Sub Centurion Solara appears a qualified Assistant. She seems to be of respectable descent and honorable character; someone I could come to trust, in time." Djurel paused and activated a window in the viewscreen before him. "The ship is in good shape and should fare well in the inevitable upcoming battle. Most of the crew are off-ship, enjoying the short leave the Commander has granted them. One member of this crew wishes he were not onboard. It is time I took care of a small problem. Computer off."

He walked into the darkened brig cell where Tereth had been confined and interrogated for the last few days. "Lights."

Tereth threw his arm up over his eyes and with a groan, sat up from the cot that Djurel had provided for him. "Nothing else! Damn you, Shapeshifter! There is not one more thing I can tell you. I again demand an audience with both the Major and the Commander!" Even after all that Djurel had put him through, Tereth retained his anger, and from it continued to draw strength.

"An audience? Hmmm. Let us do just that, traitor." Djurel motioned to someone out of Tereth's line of sight.

The sound of approaching footsteps brought hope to Tereth. And when Major Eh'rian turned the corner and stood between him and Djurel, he nearly smiled. Until he saw the look on the Major's face.

Eh'rian stood before him stoically while Djurel raised the Commander on the wallscreen opposite the cell. The two rivals looked at each other then to Djurel.

"As I have informed you both already, Tereth is charged with attempted murder. He has requested an audience with you both, as is his right. Speak your words so that punishment may be meted out quickly." Djurel looked first to the Major.

Eh'rian remained still for a moment longer, staring at Tereth as one would a disobedient animal. "I grant no immunity for him or his actions. There is only one punishment for traitors and failures, Centurion. You know what that is. You spent enough time with the Tal Shiar to know that."

Djurel turned to the viewscreen. The Commander looked at Tereth with disgust. "Do what you want to Tereth", she said then turned off the viewscreen.

Before Djurel could respond, Eh'rian removed a weapon from his clothing and fired once at the astonished Tereth. The blast penetrated the forcefield at the opening of the cell and hit Tereth squarely in the chest. With a howl, Tereth began disrupting from the inside out until with an orange flash, he was gone.

Djurel moved to disarm Eh'rian, but the Major simply handed the weapon over to him without argument. Eh'rian quipped, "There was only one punishment for traitors and failures, Centurion." With that he turned to leave. "Oh, by the way, keep it. I procurred two from a Zibalian trader." The clack of his boots soon faded.

Djurel wanted to stop the Major from leaving. To put him into the cell where he'd just killed Tereth, but he knew he couldn't. The Tal Shiar were outside the law when it came to their own. He looked at the weapon in his hand. A Varon-T disruptor. Quite possibly the only weapon that could have penetrated the brig's forcefields. Also quite illegal. He would give this to the Commander. He'd heard she had a fondness for hand-weapons.

Centurion Djurel Tegarren, Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
Aoj scratched the back of her neck after the screen turned off, Centurion Tegarren was going to enjoy himself. She still had about 15 minutes until the meeting at the Outpost so Aoj decided to read over a few of the reports she'd been putting off lately. About 13 minutes later Aoj got up and rubbed her eyes quickly. She still needed to make a quick message to the crew to prepare them for the battle and to get off the outpost and back to the ship. Aoj wrote a quick text message briefly informing most of the crew to be ready just in case a battle occurred. With only a minute left Aoj walked over to the transporter room and arrived at Outpost 704. The meeting room was only a few feet away. Aoj was one of the first Commanders to arrive, only about 7 others were there. Aoj only recognized two of them, Commander Varel, of the Shield and High Commander tr'Nid of the Lost Road. The other five looked too young to be commanding a ship. Aoj walked up to Varel and tr'Nid to start up a conversation with her old friends, they had barely started when High Commander t'Ehof walked in, the late commanders were going to get in trouble, a few seconds later about 15 commanders came in at random when t'Ehof started the briefing. The 24 commanders sat down and waited for t'Ehof to begin. She stood, and instead of starting, she pushed a small button on her desk and in walked a couple of dozen medics, it wasn't hard to figure out what they were for, moments later, each commander was having their blood checked to ensure they were not Changelings. Several of the younger commanders showed irritation, the older controlled their reactions. Several moments later the High Commander began, "Commanders of Isis Fleet; you have all received your divisions?"
The group nodded...
"Good, we will be attacking system 2359147.ARO. We will have a great advantage, we have over 20 warbirds plus several other smaller craft.  Gold Fleet 12 will be attacking 2359147.ARP, Bloodwing Fleet will take care of 2359147.ARN, and Gold Fleet 17 will take care of the bulk of the forces at 2359147.ARQ. I'll turn it over to High Commander Ye'sOn of the Isis for the next part. "
"Thank you..." Ye'sOn began, "Now, I hope you've all read the report I sent you?"
Aoj was glad she had read those reports before she left, Aoj and the other commanders nodded.
"Ok, then you all know what to do. Unless High Commander t'Ehof has anything to add..."
"Actually I do, those of you that arrived late, I will need to see you later in my office."
"...ok, then this meeting is dismissed. I'll contact all of you in 20 minutes."
Aoj left the room, exchanging a few looks with a few friends. Back on the Sunheart Aoj sent a message to security to tell them to get ready.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
Sub Centurion Solara looked at the 93% efficiency readout of the Disrupter Couplings with satisfaction. Just then the Commanders Voice was heard on the Comm System. "Everyone prepare for Battle we will be engaging the enemy shortly" said the Commander. "Aye sir' Solara thought. She then went to work on getting the efficiency rating up higher.

2 hours Later.

"There" said Sub Centurion Solara in Satisfaction. She then turned to the Head Engineer. "There sir the Disrupter Efficiency rating is now 97%" said Sub Centurion Solara. "Good" replied the Chief Engineer. "If I'm needed I'll be in my quarters" replied Sub Centurion Solara. <Salutes>

Solara then heads off to her quarters to prepare herself for the upcoming battle.

Sub Centurion Solara, Assistant Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
As Aoj looked over the bridge crew, she hoped that they, and her ship, would survive this battle. As the message to cloak came though, all of Isis fleet cloaked and headed towords their destination. The weapons were up to 97%, a whole 0.03% ahead of the rest of the fleet. As they neared the system ship began to decloak in unison. Already many of the Dominion enforcement were falling, as the Sunheart decloaked a began to attack a pair of Dominion fighters a large fleet of Cardassian ships entered the system, this was going to be hard than Command had hoped.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
Sub Centurion Solara was in the Process of Mobilizing the Security Force in case of a Jem'hadar boarding party was beamed aboard. Solara knew the Dominion would love to get their hands on a Romulan Warbird. "Okay the Jem'hadar have one Weakness" explained Solara to the Security Force.  Lowman Trhen, come here for a second" said Solara. "yes sir" replied the Lowman as he walked to her. "Turn around Lowman" said Solara. "Yes sir" said the Lowman as he turned around, Solara could tell he was confused.  Solara made a motion with her hands to where the Lowmans neck connects with his Back. "This is where the Jem'hadar are vulnerable" said Solara. "This section of their spine is weak, one good chop to that area and you will break the Jem'hadars Spine" said Solara. "Lowman you can go back now" said Solara. "yes sir' replied the Lowman. "So we should attack them Hand to hand Like that" asked Lowman Althea. "No not unless you want to get killed, still use Disrupters but if it comes down to hand to hand Combat then use this attack Method" Replied Solara. "Now Lowman Althea, Trhen and Lowman Secara I want you to guard Engineering just in case a boarding party is beamed past the Scattering field, if you have to call for reinforcements do it" said Solara. Lowman Shthea, Lowman T'kera and Lowman Ajoj Guard the bridge for the same reason" ordered Solara. "I want you all to be equipped with Disrupter Rifles, set to kill, if you see a Jem'hadar or Cardassian, Shoot first ask Questions later. Said Solara. "Keep a personal Disrupter on your person in case something goes wrong with the Rifles. "Any Questions" asked Solara. Nobody Answered "Good, now dismissed take your posts" said Sub Centurion Solara. As the Security Officers left the Room Solara had confidence that the Security Officers can take anything that comes their way.

Sub Centurion Solara, Assistant Head of Weapons and Security, RSW Sunheart
T'Zaq packed up the last of her stuff as she prepared to leave. There wasn't much to take - most of her old stuff was still in the Federation, presumably sent back to her adopted family.

She had barely even started her new life as a Rihannsu engineer on the Sunheart, and already she was being transferred somewhere else. T'Zaq wondered how the word had gotten around so fast - it was almost scary.  In fact, seeing all the Tal Shiar people around the ship lately had been scary, too. T'Zaq wasn't stupid - even in the Federation, she had known about the Tal Shiar and their doings. Some of them had attacked Outpost 77 once.

"Well, that should be about everything." she said to the empty room. Her roommate, Michael Melrose, had mysteriously left a few weeks ago, giving T'Zaq the room all to herself. She was sad to be leaving - even in her short time aboard the ship, she had memories that she would keep for the rest of her life. Still, her journey - and her search for Turalek - must go on.

Without another backward glance, T'Zaq left the room. A few minutes later, she was on the shuttle, speeding away to her next destination.

T'Zaq, Head of Engines, RSW Sunheart
Commander Aoj t'Edi sat in the command chair as several other ships finished off the remaining Cardassian ships. The battle had been a success, they had only lost 3 of the 35 ships in Isis fleet.  Unfortunately, one ship was able to get a good hit in on the Sunheart and destroyed a section of section c, the lower wing, which probably wouldn't get fixed until after the war. In a way, Aoj liked the large mark it left, it was like a scar that proved you had seen battle and lived. Of course it also showed that their was a way to hurt this mighty vessel.

As the Sunheart and the rest of Isis fleet headed back to the Outpost to recieve their new orders the viewscreen flashed with a brillent flash of light then turned off. While the rest of the bridge crew assumed that something was wrong with the view screen, Aoj imeaditly went to her office. The flash had been commands way of alerting commanders of an emergency.

In her office High Commander t'Rian appeared on her personal viewscreen and those of the other 32 commanders, his face was darker than usual, but that was not a suprise since it was a time of war. "We have a problem," he began, "somehow the Dominion has recaptured the Tuogol system, I've already sent Gold Fleet 17 to take it back, but we're going to do this t'Rik sytle."

Aoj knew of the t'Rik style, not always much fun, one fleet sat cloaked on one side of the system while the other, attacked from the other side. In theory, while the opposing forces defended agaist the attackers that they can see, the cloaked fleet can decloak and attack a poorly defended rear. Usually, the cloaked fleet was larger, and in this case Gold Fleet 17 was much larger, 200 ships larger.

"As I'm sure many of you know," he continued,"GF17 will be the cloaked fleet, they are already in position awaiting your arrival. May the Elements be with you." The screen returned to an image of command's symbol.

Aoj stood and walked onto the bridge, as the ship sped off to the Tuogol system Aoj returned to her chair and waited.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
High Centurion Rog pressed the large button outside the Commander's office making her presence known. After being beconed to enter, she did so, and stood at attention infront of her desk.

"High Centurion Rog reporting for duty." She had just been transported from the Bravesoul, they were over manned, and from what she'd heard the Sunheart desperately needed a new Head of Computers. She couldn't wait to begin working, she would be serving on one of the best ships in the fleet.

High Centurion Noth Rog, Head of Computers, RSW Sunheart
As Aoj sat in her office reading a few reports before the fleet arrived at Tuogol, her door chimed. After High Centurion Rog entered they exchanged the usual greetings.

"High Centurion Rog reporting for duty."  "At ease," Noth shifted accordingly, and Aoj continued, "welcome to the Sunheart. It's good to finally have someone back in the computer department. Well, we still have about two hours before to arrive at Tuogol, so you can head back to you quarters and get settled in down there for an hour or so then come back up here and get ready. By the way, if Major Eh'rian or any of his people approach you tell me immediately. Do you need anything else?"

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart
"No Commander and thank you." The Commander dismissed her, and she made her way to her quarters, they were simple yet the High Centurion was sure that it would soon become home. She unpacked what she had, then told the computer to wake her in 50 minutes. She lay down and turned off the lights, then her eyes closed and she drifted into a deep sleep...

"NOTH!!!" Someone yelled, and she whirled around. She was no longer in her quarters, she was dreaming, she knew it, but she couldn't control anything. She was in a very familiar looking bar, she'd only been there once, but she returned there ever night, in her dreams. An Acadamy student advanced on her and her friends, she glanced at all of them, they all had fierce looks on their faces. Tash, a thin black girl, made the first move, she picked up the bottle she'd been drinking from and smashed it over the cadet's head, then others started comming towards them, her and her friends were out number almost 2 to 1, but that didn't stop them. She entered that haze that usually occurs in hand to hand combat, knowing of nothing but the enemy.

"Uhh," The girl Noth was fighting fell to the ground, and Noth looked around for another apponant. Everywhere she looked her friends were falling, Noth pulled the dagger she kept in her boot out and stabbed a young Cadet through the back. She pulled it out again, and then felt something wap into her head and she stumbled, then she cried out as someone stabbed her through the shoulder. Her eyes were growing blury, and all she was aware of was the fact that her back and chest were slowly getting covered in something wet and sticky. She looked around and all she could see were the bodies of her friends, and the Cadets. Stumbling to her feet, she yelled and ran into a Cadet, stabbing the dagger into him, it came out, and he fell. She turned, and saw a female Cadet comming towards her. Noth stabbed the dagger into her, too, but before she could pull it out, her eyes blanked over and she collapsed.

She opened her eyes, only to be looking into the face of a young Starfleet Medical officer. Seeing that she was awake, she called a Doctor to her side. The woman looked familiar, she had long red hair, and wore a blue robe.

"Where am I?" Noth said, trying to sit up.

"You're on the Enterprise." Noth tried to get up, but gasped as the world began to spin out of control. Quickly she sat back down.

"You shouldn't get up yet, you've lost a lot of blood." Then Noth remembered seeing her friends lying on the floor.

"Where... where are my friends?" She studdered, not really wanting to hear it. "The other Civilians that were fighting."

"I'm sorry, only two of you survived."

High Centurion Rog jumped as she was suddenly awakened by the alarm. She had that dream again. It didn't help her moral much but she couldn't help what she dreamed about. She got up and changed into her uniform. Then made her way to the bridge, to start working on the Computers...

High Centurion Noth Rog, Head of Computers, RSW Sunheart
"No Commander and thank you." Noth said and she left Aoj's office. Aoj sat back in her chair and rubbed her head, all this was fighting tiresome. At least the war would be over soon and the Empire would be that much closer to destiny. After a couple of minutes she stood to see how everyone was doing on the bridge.

On the bridge most of the departments were working on their jobs, engineering was working impeticularly hard trying to repair several of the damaged shuttles. Fortunately, the upcoming battle would be an easy fight with Gold Fleet 17 taking care of most of the fighting and the Sunheart, along with the rest of Isis fleet, would be able to just sit back and watch.

Commander Aoj t'Edi, RSW Sunheart

Missing: Gold Fleet 17

There is probably no pleasure equal to the pleasure of climbing a dangerous Alp, but it is a pleasure which is confined strictly to people who can find pleasure in it. --Mark Twain