Interim: The Loss Of Faith R&R

[Deleted]

Luke slowly walked the now practically empty corridors of the Scavenger, the lighting had been dimmed and there was a general aura of emptyness aboard the vessel.
He had very little to do at this point, the Scavenger had yet to receive her new mission orders and as a result of this the crew were forced to wait around, not that they minded he was sure.

Eventually leaving the Scavenger and walking onto the Starbase Luke headed for his assigned quarters, all crew were given temporary quarters whilst on Assailant and Luke took the oppurtunity just for a change of scenery.
That and he wanted a neutral ground when he met his new FO, which was due to be within the hour.

Arriving at the quarters Luke sat down at his desk and sighed. Apparantly Kevin was only on the Starbase somewhere, Luke wondered if they would have time to meet up. They had a lot to talk about...
Still musing on this thought Luke didn't hear the door chime the first time round and only acknowledged it the second because he was pouring a cup of steaming coffee and this seemed to have alerted his senses.

"Come." Luke said in response to the noise.

In walked a smartly presented Commander, with the empty fourth pip signyfying First Class. Luke rose to his feet, time to meet the Scavenger's new FO.

<TAG Parsons>


Enjoy your time off guys!

[desertpride]

Pride: Was busy at his station and making arrangements for Captain Tras. In a hour starfleet would get a message from his home world informing them they wanted to give him a medal and talk to him about joining Star fleet. Under those condition they would have no choice but to back off.

Still he was tired and needed some rest not to mention he still had some repairs to do on his own ship she had taken a beating and needed some TLC and there was dinner for Illito to make as well. Tapping his com badge

" Illito if your not busy could you meet me in my quarters in a hour for dinner if that is okay with you of course" <Tag Illito>

Finishing his reports and forward to Captain Drago to let him know his home world would be interferring on Captain Tras behalf. Well its time to start cooking and hope I have someone to cook for he thought he go up and headed to his quarters.

[Deleted]

Commander Parsons, having recently completed an advance tactics and command course at the Academy, was now on his way back to Starbase Assailant via transport ship. The Commander's departure from Starbase Conqueror had been arranged and Parsons assumed he would be heading back to the El Salvador.

While en route to Assailant, Adam received an incoming transmission from Command. New orders, he read them carefully, and then reread them. He had been reassigned as the Executive Officer of the USS Scavenger, a Vagabond Class ship.

Excited about his new post and promotion, yet a little sad about leaving the El Sal, Parsons began researching his new ship and her crew. She seemed a fine ship with a fine crew. Her most recent acting Captain, one Luke Drago, appeared to be a highly decorated, highly capable commander. One thing Adam found strange was the lack of specific information on this officer that was accessible, including missing chunks of his service record. Additionally, information on the new Acting CO, Captain Joseph Tras, was also in short supply. The new FO chalked it up to Starfleet's secrecy with their command officers.

***

Arriving on Assailant, Parsons went straight to Commander Drago's assigned quarters. Now in a red command uniform, Adam pressed the panel next to the officer's door that would signal his presence.

"Come," the new XO heard a voice say, and in he went. Seated in his chair, behind a desk was a Human Starfleet Officer, Parsons presumed to be Drago.

"Commander Adam Parsons, reporting for duty aboard the USS Scavenger," the former CTSO announced.

"I was told to report in to you, Commander. I am a little unclear on the situation between Captain Tras and yourself. I was hoping you could fill me in."

[tintagel]

Illito had finally had enough time to finish some of the backlog of work that had been building up. She was looking forward to spending some time off, and when Pride contacted her Illito accepted his invitation, because she couldn't think of anyone she'd rather spend it with than Pride. =/\=Yeah, I'd be happy to meet you there=/\= Illito paused slightly, then continued. =/\=I look forward to seeing you then=/\=

Illito wound up what she had been working on, trying to bring it to a point at which she could satisfactory end for the day. That took about thirty minutes, and then Illito was done. She then managed the amazing feat of handing control over to Lieutenant Avel without ever talking to him. She was enjoying the day now and truly looking forward to the dinner she was going to have with Pride, so she really didn't want to wreck anything by engaging in a conversation with her ever-hostile Assistant Chief Medical Officer.

After leaving sickbay, Illito proceeded to her quarters to take a sonic shower and change into something besides her duty uniform. She found she didn't have as large a range of civilian clothing as she right now wanted, as she couldn't find anything that worked perfectly. Of course, a small part of her recognized that she probably wouldn't be perfectly content with anything, no matter what her choices were.

Illito was rather nervous, but after she finished getting dressed and brushing her hair she supposed that she better head over to Pride's quarters soon if she didn't want to be late. An hour she stood outside of his quarters, ran her fingers through her hair one more time, and requested entry.

<Tag Pride>

[tarapik]

Tarapik was in his temporary quarters, meditating. He was uncover his errors in the near past and to correct them. Suddenly, the computer's voice took him out of the trance. "USS Scavenger has docked Starbase" - it said. Tarapik stood up of the floor and began putting on his uniform. Once ready, the young Vulcan asked the computer for the location of commander Luke Drago's temporary quarters and left. Tarapik entered the nearest turbolift and moved on toward Drago's room.

Once in front of the door, he pressed the doorbell and, after getting invited in, entered. A commander first class was in there, too, next to the commanding officer of USS Scavenger. Tarapik decided that this is his First officer, Adam Parsons, who was also new on board.

The Vulcan stepped forward and raised his arm in the Vulcan's salute. "Peace and long live, gentlemen. I am Tarapik, the new chief Tactical and Security officer of the Scavenger."

<tag Drago, Parsons>

[Deleted]

"I was told to report in to you, Commander. I am a little unclear on the situation between Captain Tras and yourself. I was hoping you could fill me in."

Luke couldn't help but roll his eyes, it wasn't Parsons' fault, but he wished the whole Tras thing would just sort itself out.

"Captain Tras is still technically in command of the Scavenger until further notice, however, I have been given temporary command whilst he is in custody. So reporting into me was not a problem." Luke paused. "The situation with myself and the Captain on a personal level is far more complicated and I do not wish to bore you with it." He finished, adding a smile to the end.

<TAG Parsons>

"I must say that your record is impressive Commander." Luke said. "I am glad that my request was kept in mind."

<TAG Parsons>

Luke nodded. " I known Kevin Zimmerman on the El Sal, we were friends back in the Academy days. I keep an eye on the El Sal for that reason."
Luke could tell that Parsons was confused by this statement. The Commander before him was a lot older than Kevin who apparantly had shared the same class as Luke.
"I will release confidential files to you when the Scavenger is ready for us to board. It will fill you in on details concerning my age etc."
Luke didn't get a change to hear what Adam said in response to this as the door chime rang again, this time a young Vulcan Officer entered.

"Peace and long live, gentlemen. I am Tarapik, the new Chief Tactical and Security officer of the Scavenger."

Luke rose to his feet again and nodded at Tarapik, making sure he did not offer his hand, aware of the Vulcans dislike for physical contact. "Live long and prosper." Luke replied in one of the only traditional Vulcan responses he knew. "Welcome aboard the Scavenger.
May I introduce Commander First Class Adam Parsons, it would appear that you to have at least one thing in common already, your training at the Academy."

<TAG Parsons/Tarapik>

[Deleted]

"Captain Tras is still technically in command of the Scavenger until further notice, however, I have been given temporary command whilst he is in custody. So reporting into me was not a problem." Luke paused. "The situation with myself and the Captain on a personal level is far more complicated and I do not wish to bore you with it." He finished, adding a smile to the end.

Parsons returned the smile and nodded slightly in response.

"I must say that your record is impressive Commander." Luke said. "I am glad that my request was kept in mind."

"The pleasure is mine," Parsons replied. "I had been thinking a lot about making the transition to a command position. Your offer presented a fine ship and a fine crew with which to try my hand at serving as an XO. I will miss El Sal and her crew though."

Luke nodded. " I known Kevin Zimmerman on the El Sal, we were friends back in the Academy days. I keep an eye on the El Sal for that reason."

Parsons must have looked confused as Luke added, "I will release confidential files to you when the Scavenger is ready for us to board. It will fill you in on details concerning my age etc."
Adam started to respond when the door chime rang, and a young Vulcan Officer entered.

"Peace and long live, gentlemen. I am Tarapik, the new Chief Tactical and Security officer of the Scavenger."

Luke rose to his feet again and nodded at Tarapik, "Live long and prosper. Welcome aboard the Scavenger. May I introduce Commander First Class Adam Parsons, it would appear that you to have at least one thing in common already, your training at the Academy."

"Yes, Lieutenant," Parsons said nodding to Tarapik, "pleased to meet you. As our CO eluded to, I have recently returned from the Academy after an Advanced Tactics and Command course. Were you on the transport over from Conqueror or did you secure other means of travel?"

<TAG Tarapik>

[Deleted]

Tras paced his two-by-four cell, wondering why no-one had yet come to question him. Then suddenly a woman stood before him and, startled by her sudden appearance, he jumped back. "Don't be alarmed," she signed, smiling encouragingly, "I'm here to help you prepare for your trial. Commander Drago personally contacted me right after the Scavenger docked."

"Who are you?" he signed back, wary of the guard standing just outside the forcefield. He knew of course, that usually guards could overhear anything said within the confinements of a cell, but that wasn't why he replied in silent language. Using speech cost him far more energy than using sign language.

"Lieutenant Scarlett O'Hara," she introduced herself, now using both speech and sign, "JAG defense lawyer. I'm here to help you with your defense."

"I don't need a lawyer, I plead guilty," Tras answered, "I have nothing to defend my actions for. I already gave my statements, you're a bit late in offering your assistance."

"I'm inclined to disagree." She handed the disgraced captain a sheet of paper. "Commander Pride's people have declared you a hero captain, they even want to issue you a medal for saving the life of a brilliant young officer. Plus your release is their condition for joining the Federation."

"Is that so? I didn't do anything to deserve a medal and I won't accept it either. Saving a subordinate's life is part of my job description. Endangering my own life in the process was a choice I had to make. Between the doctor and myself, the choice was easily made considering what condition Pride was in."

"Still, these are their conditions." She took the sheet from him and filed it away in her leather briefcase. "And so you will be released after standing trial. The tribunal will not further questioning you, seeing as you've been through enough, but you'll have to remain here until the verdict is out."

"I want to talk to Commander Pride."

"He's already been called," Scarlett smiled, "I'm ahead of you captain. And I'm certain you'd want to talk with other crewmembers too, so I've called them too and requested they stop by and have a chat. You need to open up Captain Tras, for you're missing out on a lot of things. I've read your records and you strike me as a very lonely man." She tucked a stray strand of auburn hair back behind her ear and smiled. "I'll be back later. Have a little faith in your crew captain, and you'll see you've not done half as bad as you believe you have."

[tarapik]

luke said:

Luke rose to his feet again and nodded at Tarapik. "Live long and prosper." Luke replied in one of the only traditional Vulcan responses he knew. "Welcome aboard the Scavenger.
May I introduce Commander First Class Adam Parsons, it would appear that you to have at least one thing in common already, your training at the Academy."

"I believe one could say this is true. I remember we met right before I went on the Hanson for my training session" - Tarapik answered. Then he nodded at commander Parsons and said - "It is good to see you again, commander."

adamparsons said:

"Yes, Lieutenant," Parsons said nodding to Tarapik, "pleased to meet you. As our CO eluded to, I have recently returned from the Academy after an Advanced Tactics and Command course. Were you on the transport over from Conqueror or did you secure other means of travel?"

No, commander," - Tarapik answered - "my graduation ceremony dragged on a bit, so I missed the transport. I arrived via shuttle craft, kindly offered to me by Starbase Conqueror's staff. And were you on the transport?"

<tag Parsons>

"Although I am aware of the current... misunderstandings for the commanding of the ship, I believe this is to be given to you. These are my fies" - Tarapik said to Drago and handed him a PADD. "I hope you would find them to be... satisfactory." - he said.

<tag Drago>

[desertpride]

Pride: Got the order to report to the holding cell before the trial began. It appeared Captain tras wanted to talk to him. Pride had changed his uniform for that of a representive of his home world with the royal crest and all. It appeared his dinner with Illito would have to wait.

He was about to leave when he heard her at the door. Come she entered and took his breath away." I'm sorry Illito dinner is going to have to wait again it appears every time we make plans for this something come's up. I'm suppose to represent my home world at captain tras trial. Something tells me he's not happy with what I did but I really dont care. Not to mention he's taking me away from you which doesn't make me happy. We are all suppose to report you should be getting your notice soon. Maybe after Im done and if your still up I'll take you out. By the way you look great"<Tag Illito>

Adjusting his clothing he felt out of place in the rich colors of his clothes he had worn his uniform so long it didn't feel right wearing anything else.

Walking down the hall heading to the holding cell he saw the guard and signaled him to wait out side. He walked over to the cell where Captain tras sat he didn't look happy at all.

" I would suggest you look a little more happy captain in a short while you will be out. I'm sorry I didn't inform you of what was going on but I already knew what you would say. Commander Drago gave me permission to take this route" <Tag Tras>

The captain was about to say something along the lines of I dont need your help but pride cut him off which angered the captain some more and reminded him of a earlyer conversation about rank.

" With all due respect captain at this moment I represent my home world which means as a member of the ruling family and the person who is pushing for this which has not been easy. You have made a lot of powerful enemys calling for your head. But you pointed something out at the beging of this mission the federation needs new worlds to join mine might join but to ensure that they will have to make sure your safe and able to report. As for telling to stay out of this well I'm not going to. There is something going on hear and you are one of the few people who can figure it out."

Pausing a little

" Every sicne I joined there has been something going on and I dont like it between you and Drago somebody is going to have to figure it out and like it or not Drago needs friends who are out of jail and able to help. As for giving me a order to stay out it is not something you can do right now I for the moment have diplomatic status which means you dont give order on this subject. Take the help try to figure out what is going on its easyer to figure things out on this side of the cell captain trust me on that" <Tag Tras>

alittle while later tapping his combadge

" Commander Drago Pride here" pausing " I think you might want to convince Captain Tras to accept my help before he ruins everything I cant help him if he wont go along with it" <Tag Drago>

[Deleted]

Sighing, Tras motioned for Pride to please sit down. "I'm not turning down your help commander," he answered irritably, "in fact I really appreciate what you are trying to do. However, I am not the hero your people paint me to be. Saving your life was something I had to do, I couldn't consciously endanger the doctor's life so my own was all I needed to endanger. The choice was easily made."

He put the book he had been reading aside and glanced up at Pride. "I really don't want to accept that award you're putting me up for. I don't feel I deserved it."

" Every sicne I joined there has been something going on and I dont like it between you and Drago somebody is going to have to figure it out and like it or not Drago needs friends who are out of jail and able to help. As for giving me a order to stay out it is not something you can do right now I for the moment have diplomatic status which means you dont give order on this subject. Take the help try to figure out what is going on its easyer to figure things out on this side of the cell captain trust me on that"

"Oh is that what it is," Tras replied, signing angrily while he spoke, "I'll have you know then that my relationship with Commander Drago has greatly improved, however I don't see how that is any of your business!" He glared at Pride. "My private life is my own affair, and how I command a ship is also my affair. You may be an ambassador for your people, but in or out of uniform you will always be a starfleet commander. Remember that Mister Pride."

With that, he turned his back on Pride, effectively blocking off any chance of communication as he wouldn't consciously hear the younger man. "I accept your help, but not your awards," he repeated as he turned back around, "let's get that straight. I've given my statements, I've even just been visited by a lawyer JAG sent me, so now all I need to do is await the outcome. I don't even have to answer further questions..."

[desertpride]

Pride: Listend to what the captain was saying and not liking it one bit.

"Oh is that what it is," Tras replied, signing angrily while he spoke, "I'll have you know then that my relationship with Commander Drago has greatly improved, however I don't see how that is any of your business!" He glared at Pride. "My private life is my own affair, and how I command a ship is also my affair. You may be an ambassador for your people, but in or out of uniform you will always be a starfleet commander. Remember that Mister Pride."

Having heard enought pride dropped the force field and enteryed the cell. He walked in front of captain Tras to make sure he heard what he had to say.

" You know Captian your right I' am a commander in or out of uniform no matter what I may doing. My people and me went through a lot of trouble to make this happen a lot rides on the out come. When somebody tries to help sir you dont get to pick and choose how they help. You made a choice to save my life when logic said it was to risky. I made a choice to save the ship. The fact that you made the choice with out reguard to you is why your being given the medal. I once learned that getting a medal was easy living up to it was the challenge." Pausing for a moment.

" Sir you need to stop thinking about your self and start to wonder what is going here. Its really wierd how you discoverd your mother on the planet and even weirderd that you got assinged a ship with a commander on it so you could take command and all the problems we faced. If we had followed your orders to jettison the warp core it had been rigged to explode. on top of that a world that should not have even been considered for admittance has more ships then reported and scanned us. You got stuck with a commander who has been given a hard time by a certain admiral and a crew who didn't like you much"

" Sir think for a moment how all these things go together somebody is working against star fleet somebody who wants us to go to war again. Sombody who went throught alot of trouble to set you up. Please sir go along with this prove to everybody you are the captain I know you are accept this and try to stop who ever is doing this. Things happen for a reason you deserve the medal no matter what you might think. Stop fighting this dont you think thats what they want. They dont want you out who ever is doing this because they know you and Commander Drago are a threat to them."

Looking at the captain pride saluted. " I cant make you do anything you dont want to do but I remind you of what you told me. You are a captain in star fleet you werent handed it for the hell of if you were given it because you earned it. The same with the medal and since you are a captain then it is your job to act like one and figure out what is going on. You are right your relationship with Commander Drago is none of my affair but I'm glad to know your friends. Please sir I cant do this on my own I'm just a commander and my word only goes so far but yours carry's more weight"<Tag Tras>

[Deleted]

This time, Tras permitted himself a small but gentle smile as he glanced up to the younger man from his sitting position. "Word from a captain in disgrace?" he retorted mildly, "oh yes that will certainly carry weight. Very well captain, do what you feel you must. I'll trust your wisdom in this. Know that I honestly appreciate what you are doing, but also accept that I do not feel I have earned this award you have your people bestow upon me."

He got up to face the commander, placing one hand on his arm, while continuing single-handed signing as he spoke. Signing had now become a habit again, and he wasn't even aware anymore that he was doing it. No longer was he ashamed because of his disability, and felt more strongly that instead of that it only added to his strength. "Yes I am being set up, but I don't understand why. I don't understand why my mother was abducted all these years ago, and why I was led to believe until recently that she was dead. However much I'd like to find out, I don't want my mother to be put through any more of this. I want to find her a quiet place to live, outside the spotlights. And I want this forgotten as soon as possible. No not make it go away, just no more unnecessary digging into it."

He fell silent for what seemed eternity, then started to pace the length of his cell. "Is my mother being cared for at the moment? I don't want my father anywhere near her, don't want him to find out that I've tracked her down. Can I trust you to look after her until I am better able to?"

[desertpride]

Pride: Smiled at the captain he was getting through to him. He was slowly seeing the captain come back the one who was sure of everything.

"Word from a captain in disgrace?" he retorted mildly, "oh yes that will certainly carry weight. Very well captain, do what you feel you must. I'll trust your wisdom in this. Know that I honestly appreciate what you are doing, but also accept that I do not feel I have earned this award you have your people bestow upon me."

Smiling and trying to be supportive

" Sir I don't see a disgraced captain I see one thats more flexible then before and better for it. If I ever do make captain I hope I take what I have learned from you with me. I know I didn't make it easy on you and how I handled it wasn't right but I have learned to accept different command style's because of you" Gather his breath for a moment

" As for the medal well lets say the people who earn don't ever want them because truth be told they thinks its there job I"m a pilot I'm reckless most of the time and I take big chance but because I'm a pilot I have to your a captain the gambles you take are bigger then mine and its your job. Thats all we want to do is our job we hope and pray we aren't put into a position to where we could earn a medal. You earned it and you deserve it and it gets you out of here and back to being a captain. One last thing and I'm talking to as a friend and a member of the ruling house of my home world. If I ever hear use the words a disgraced captain and your referring to your self I'll knock you on your but in a heart beat and I mean that rank or no rank your my captain and you did your job. As for your mother I will have guards put on her when I leave for her protection they are members of my home and will protect her at all cost. So rest and think of away to stop this madness thats going if you need anything else let me know and I'll arrange it. It would seem having diplomatic status has a few perks that go with it. I'll be leaving you now take it easy and remember you have friends let them help you would do no less for any of us you already proved that" <Tag Tras>


Walking out of the cell and switching the shield on he signaled the guard to enter. Looking at the guard.

" You know who I'm and what my status is don't you" the guard nodded his head " Then good listen up I'm leaving two of my personal guard here don't worry I've got permission if anybody of the rank higher the captain comes in my guards stay unless captain tras wants them to leave is that clear also remember your watching a star fleet captain you will treat him as such get him a clean uniform and make arrangements for him to clean himself up and get something to eat. If anybody stops you let them know the crowned prince of Teak wanted it so they'll back off they don't want risk loosing another planet. Remember the man in that cell is a good man treat him that way"

Walking out of the detention center he motioned his guard to find Captain tras mother and to protect her with there lives. She was not to have any visitors accept what were on the list. She goes where she wants just keep her safe until this is settled .

Now where is Illito its not everyday she gets to have rolay treatment and as soon as things were settled with captain tras he would be a commander again.

" Illito if your still up how about that dinner?" <Tag Illito>

[Deleted]

No, commander," - Tarapik answered - "my graduation ceremony dragged on a bit, so I missed the transport. I arrived via shuttle craft, kindly offered to me by Starbase Conqueror's staff. And were you on the transport?"

"Yes, I was," replied Parsons, "it was a nice leisurely ride. It was kind of nice to just be a passenger for a while." Turning to Drago, "of course I am anxious to see the Scavenger and meet the rest of crew. However, I assume our orders are on hold until the situation with Captain Tras is sorted out. A friend of mine in JAG, mentioned there might be some type of hearing or court martial."

After a brief, but awkward silence. "Although I am aware of the current... misunderstandings for the commanding of the ship, I believe this is to be given to you. These are my fies" - Tarapik said to Drago and handed him a PADD. "I hope you would find them to be... satisfactory." - he said.

[Deleted]

Luke looked over Tarapik's files but paid little attention. Firstly he had already seen them, and secondly Tarapiks mention of the chain of command made Luke suddenly realise that there was that whole Tras situation that actually needed to be sorted out and that it would probably fall at least partly on his shoulders to do so.
As if someone was broadcasting Luke's thoughts to the ship his comm badge chirped in response.

=^= Commander Drago, Pride here. I think you might want to convince Captain Tras to accept my help before he ruins everything I cant help him if he won't go along with it =^=

Luke wasn't quite sure what Pride was talking about but he was sure that the Commander had the best interests of Tras at heart.

"I am in conference at the moment." Luke replied. "I will be along to see Tras as soon as possible. Drago out."

Luke smiled at his two new Officers who looked thoroughly confused... Well Tarapik looked as confused as a Vulcan could look...

"I am sorry gentlemen but unfortunately I do have to attend to a few matters. Please enjoy some free time, I believe you have both been allocated quarters on Assailant. When we are given permission to return to the Scavenger I believe it would serve all for us to get together and get to know each other a little more."

<TAG Parsons/Tarapik>

"Very good. That will be all then." Luke replied, watching the Officers leave and then taking a long gulp of coffee before he headed for one of the Assailant's many holding rooms.

He arrived where Tras was being held around 5minutes later, aware that he was receiving questioning looks from those around him. News, or perhaps gossips was a better word, spreads fast.
Luke noticed that Pride had gone and that Tras was seated in his cell.

"Captain." Luke said as he approached the forcefield. "What have you been informed of your situation?"

<TAG Tras>

[tarapik]

Tarapik really was confused but he managed to keep the expression of his face neutral. After leaving, he didn't manage to keep himself anymore and he frowned. Tarapik realized that his emotions were getting out of control.

The Vulcan turned toward commander Parsons and said: "Well, Commander, shall we go and take a look at our new ship?"

<tag Parsons>

They entered the nearest turbolift and moved toward the observation lounge. There, Tarapik saw the USS Scavenger, "in flesh and blood", for the first time. There were other ships docked, but the huge Vagabond-class emerged above them. The Vulcan was stunned by the power, emanated by her. "Fascinating!" - quietly came through his dry mouth with great difficulty.

<tag Parsons>

"If you would excuse me now, commander, I would like to return to my quarters and carry on meditating." - Tarapik said to Parsons and got back into the turbolift.

<tag Parsons>

After he got back to his room, he really tried to meditate, but it was impossible. Meditation was a peculiar state of spirit, Tarapik wasn't in at the moment. His human blood had boiled by the view of the powerful, yet gracious ship.

Upon realizing he won't be able to meditate, Tarapik left his room, went to the nearest free Holodeck and entered it. "Computer, Vagabond-class bridge!" - he said. On the newly appeared bridge, he sat on the tactical console and stared at the viewscreen. He then looked around remembering every detail. The Vulcan had given away to feelings. Tarapik felt that he could stay in this holodeck, on the quiet bridge for centuries, but he would have to wait only until the Scavenger had to set sail to a new mission.

<tag Anyone>

[desertpride]

Pride: Returned from his meeting with Captain Tras and still hadn't heard any word from Illito about a late dinner. He changed out of his diplomatic clothes for his uniform. Captain Tras was right he was a star fleet officer and didn't enjoy being a diplomat. Well it will be over shortly and then on to the next mission. He was walking the halls and passed by the holodeck when he saw it running. Well this wierd Its late and everybody is off deciding to see who was running the program he entered.

He was a little shocked to see it was the bridge. He looked around and saw a vulcan officer at the tatical station. " I hope I'm not intrudeing its just you normaly dont see the holodeck running when he are at star base. Oh were are my manners I'm Lt Commander Pride, I'm the helm officer and you are? " <Tag Tarapik>


" You know this still doesn't do the bridge justice you should see the real bridge for your self. Its night shift right now and there really shouldn't be anybody on the brige execpt the dutie officer If you want we could go up and take a look. I think the logic in the desinged is better when seen for real"

[Paikea Apirana]

The science officer of the USS Scavenger had not left his quarters in two days. For some reason the events of the last few months had finally taken it's toll on his body and physique. He taken it upon himself to meditate and get what he had lost. Paikea had made sure to keep in touch with the happenings on the ship and on Katie. If anyone understood what he was going through, it would be her. They had gone through many of the same things together and she was being supportive.

Paikea looked out of his window and saw the countless stars. He had always dreamed of seeing each and every one of them. He just didn't expect it to be so hard. The Scavenger was a great starship and his home, but there always seemed to be a lot of drama. It wasn't long ago that Commodore T'Mar left the Scavenger and Commander Drago came onboard. His unusual way of things didn't do well for the crew, but in the end they had learned to trust him.

If that wasn't enough they had to forget all that and get used to the command of Captain Tras who led them to a most dangerous experience. Paikea wasn't sure yet as to who would be commanding the Scavenger on there next mission, but he was working hard to make sure that whoever it was he would do the best job possible.

~I think its time to get back out there~ Paikea said as he remembered the meaning of one of his tribal tattoos.

[Deleted]

Tras rose from his seated position to be at the same height as Drago, if not just a tad taller for Joseph Tras was a tall man. "Everything commander." He offered a small smile. "Commander Pride entered a heated debate over his people's position and how I should not undermine what they were trying to do etcetera etcetera. While I do not feel I have earned any kind of award I will accept it only because Commander Pride has requested I do so for the sake of his people. I imagine they'll be offended if I refuse, and I don't want to cause any further issues."

He looked up when he saw his lawyer approach again. "Commander Luke Drago, meet my lawyer Lieutenant Scarlett O'Hara."

Scarlett approached and offered Drago her hand. "We are ready for you now Captain Tras, the tribunal has reached it's verdict." She ignored Drago's sharp glance, but Tras did not.

"I pleaded guilty commander," he explained, "and your written testimonies have all been taken into account. I expect events to go as I was told they should, ending with my demotion to full commander and loss of my command." He inclined his head towards Drago. "You are welcome to accompany me."

Tras stepped out of the cell as the security guards lowered the forcefield, then held his wrists together without comment, and waited for them to be cuffed. He raised an eyebrow when this didn't happen. "I could order you to follow procedure gentlemen."

The Vulcan guard countered his raised eyebrow with one of his own. "That is illogical captain, since you are obviously co-operating and are not a flight risk. Adding to that, we decided to allow you what little dignity you have left at the moment, by leading you into the courtroom under your own power."

"That is most kind of you Ensign Senek, most kind indeed. Shall we?"

The five officers walked from the cellblock towards the courtroom. Tras hesitated only once, only now realising what would be awaiting him. He stood beside Scarlett in the accused's seat, waiting for the tribunal to convene and cast their verdict.

A middle-aged woman wearing Vice-Admiral's bars glanced down on Tras in such a way that it made him feel extremely small. "Captain Joseph Tras, you have been accused of recklessness, unnecessarily endangering your ship and crew and disobeying direct orders. You have pleaded guilty upon hearing the charges. Do you wish to change your plea?"

"No ma'am."

The woman sighed, glanced at her two peers; a commodore and a captain, then glanced back down on Tras. "Very well. This tribunal has decided to demote you to full commander, strip you of your privileges gained while commanding the USS Scavenger, strip you of command of said vessel and place a comment on your permanent record. You are now released to your new duties upon receiving assignment from the commanding authority on this base. You may leave now."

Tras let out his breath, only now realising he'd been holding it, then briefly hugged his lawyer. "Thank you," he whispered to her, "despite not having really needed to argue on my behalf." Now, he turned to Drago. "No more captaining me commander, I am no longer your superior."

A little later, Tras walked into Scavenger's mess hall, glancing around. The senior staff was gathered as he had instructed them to do. The only person missing was Commander Drago, the key person needed for this little ceremony. In his right hand, Tras held a small black box, small enough to be concealed when he balled his hand into a fist. Upon his request, Starfleet had granted him the brief authority to promote Drago to captain. Only, Drago himself hadn't been told yet, nor had Scavenger's crew.

Finally, Drago arrived and Tras stepped up to him. "Commander Drago, please remove the black pip from your collar. You are out of uniform." Fixing his usual stern gaze on the older man, Tras couldn't help but smile ever so slightly. The smile did help take the sting out of his words. After Drago had complied, Tras produced the black box, opened it and fixed the fourth golden pip on Drago's collar. "Scavenger needs a good CO," he smiled, "and who better than the person who has kept her safe? Who better than you, Captain Drago?"

He turned towards the rest of the crew and with a flourish motioned to Drago. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present you Captain Luke Drago!"

[Deleted]

Luke watched the hearing with interest. Tras' punishment had obviously been long decided before the trial had even begun, this was all just routine.
Usual, standard, boring routine.
However, what did interest the Commander was how Tras was taking this all. He seemed fully aware of what this meant for his perfect service record, yet it didn't seem to bother him in the slightest.
Maybe his missing mother had been the weight on his shoulders that had been crushing him for so long. And with that finally gone he could act like a person again.
Or maybe he was just a good actor...
Luke doubted that he would ever be sure.

The court formalities ended and all were dismissed. Luke didn't wait to speak to Tras, instead he left silently, not talking to anyone. Wanting to be alone to allow his thoughts to take control. The most logical course of action would be for the Scavenger to be returned to his command, but Command often favoured the most challening and therefore illogical decision. His future once again seemed very unsure.

He walked through the decks of Assailant, unsure of where to go, he bumped into some of the Scavenger crew and some Assailant staff that he knew and smiled his way past them. A smile that was a lie.
Time passed and so did the decks, he soon found himself staring at the Scavenger, so still and dark at her dock. Where would she be heading next? Who would she be heading off next.

He heard someone cough behind him. Luke turned round and was shocked to see someone he knew from a long, long time ago.

"Hello Luke." She said.

He offered no response. Finding that he couldn't speak. In the background he thought he could hear Tras' voice, but everything seemed so distant.

"You look..." The woman paused. "...Well you look terrible." She finished, glancing him up and down again. "Whatever happened to you?"

Luke managed to find his voice in the chaos that seemed to involve his stomach in his throat.

"It is good to see you Matriach." He spluttered.

"I lost that title years ago dear. But you wouldn't know that, it has been such a long time, Luke." She said, moving closer, placing her hand on his shoulder.

"Longer for me." He replied. "Oh so very long."

"Did you ever let go?" She asked. "Ever move on?"

Luke shook his head. "Did you?" Silent tears now rolling down his face.

She too shook her head. "I wonder what she would have to say about all this...."

"If she were here to say anything then none of this would be as it is." He replied.

The woman sighed, sorting out the layers of clothing that swelled around her ageing body. "I am sure you are right." She smiled, wiped a tear away from Luke's face and began to walk away. "Until next time Luke."

He turned to face the Scavenger, the tears had stopped and the awareness of reality settled back in.
He tapped his comm badge.

"Computer, play back message from Joseph Tras, Commander."

*****

A short time later he arrived on the Scavenger, the empty corridors giving him some comfort. He wondered what Tras could want with the Senior Staff.
He entered the Mess Hall and watched as the eyes of the Senior Staff, new officers and all, followed him to where Tras beckoned him to stand.

"Commander Drago, please remove the black pip from your collar. You are out of uniform." Fixing his usual stern gaze on the older man, Tras couldn't help but smile ever so slightly. The smile did help take the sting out of his words. After Drago had complied, Tras produced the black box, opened it and fixed the fourth golden pip on Drago's collar. "Scavenger needs a good CO," he smiled, "and who better than the person who has kept her safe? Who better than you, Captain Drago?"

He turned towards the rest of the crew and with a flourish motioned to Drago. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present you Captain Luke Drago!"

Suddenly his future seemed slightly less hazed but then slightly more challenging.
He looked round the Senior Staff, and to an extent Tras, and saw the beginnings of a family.

He raised a glass that had been procured for him and smiled, still thinking back to Matriach, or whatever she might be calling herself these days, and to her daughter, and then to the future.

"To the Scavenger." He said. "To her crew. Her family."

"Her family." Everyone repeated.

<TAG All>

[desertpride]

Pride: Was happy to see Drago get permoted to captain and that he would be staying with the ship. After there last couple of mission the crew was looking forward to a permante command structer for a change. He hadn't met the first officer yet but reports had it that he was a good one.

The more things change the more they stay the same. He still wasn't happy about the out come with captain tras being demoted to commander. But he seemed to be happier for a change. Walking over to him he handed him a pad he wasn't quite sure what was on it but he had pulled alot of strings to get it.

" Commander Tras a moment please. I know you said you want to get on with your life and thats good but when your ready to figure things out on what happen. Well here's a starting poing for you its all the reports of the events leading up to the last mission including the intell on it and who supplied it. I haven't readed it and wont. Its yours to do with as you will good luck Commander"

Looking up at there newly permoted Captain.

" Heres to the best commanding officer any ship could ask for as he eyed both men"

[Deleted]

The Vulcan turned toward commander Parsons and said: "Well, Commander, shall we go and take a look at our new ship?"

"An excellent idea, Mr. Tarapik," Parsons said as the two officers headed for their docked ship.

They entered the nearest turbolift and moved toward the observation lounge. There, Tarapik saw the USS Scavenger, "in flesh and blood", for the first time. There were other ships docked, but the huge Vagabond-class emerged above them. The Vulcan was stunned by the power, emanated by her. "Fascinating!" - quietly came through his dry mouth with great difficulty.

"Quite, she looks like a fine ship," Parsons said marveling at the unique design of his new post.

"If you would excuse me now, commander, I would like to return to my quarters and carry on meditating." - Tarapik said to Parsons and got back into the turbolift.

Parsons stayed for a while longer, taking in every contour of the Scavenger. The new First Officer imagined what adventures he would have with Drago, Tarapik, and the rest of the crew. It would be Adam's first tour as Executive Officer, and he was filled with excitement and apprehension.

***

A short time later, Parsons was working his way around the Scavenger mess hall introducing himself to the crew, when Tras and Drago entered and all in the room turned their attention toward these two senior officers. There was a short ceremony, and Drago was promoted to Captain.

Adam felt a sense of relief and comfort in knowing that Drago was now Captain and commander of the USS Scavenger. Parsons was one step closer to assuming his post as First Officer.

[tarapik]

The sound of the opening holodeck doors startled Tarapik and he almost fell of his chair. Delightfully, he managed to hold himself for the console and stood up. At the entrance was staying a young man, Tarapik recognized as lieutenant commander Pride, the Scavenger’s navigator – the Vulcan had read al the personnel files for the ship earlier.

desertpride said:

" I hope I'm not intrudeing its just you normaly dont see the holodeck running when he are at star base. Oh were my manners I'm Lt Commander Pride, I'm the helm officer and you are? "

the man said.

“I am lieutenant junior grade Tarapik, the new chief tactical officer of the USS Scavenger. It appears we are serving on the same ship. As to my occupation here at the moment… I… I…” – Tarapik felt a blush, lighting up his cheeks. He was amazed by the illogicalness and awkwardness of the situation. He managed to say quietly: “I was simply recognizing myself with my future workplace…” – the Vulcan kept on with greater self-confidence – “It is illogical to go in blindly.” Tarapik even managed to convince himself that that’s what he was doing. He was relieved when the commander invited him to the ship, releasing him from the need of further explanations. “After you, commander.” – Tarapik replied and the two officers left the holodeck.

**********

Later Tarapik and Pride were walking through the dark corridors of the Scavenger, discussing unimportant subjects. Suddenly, the computer’s vice was heard: “All senior staff, report to the mess hall.” They were forced to change directions.

As the two men arrived, they found themselves in the middle of an official ceremony. Tarapik moved to the bar and managed to get himself a cup of synthehol he felt was going to be necessary for the unavoidable toast, humans were so fond of. He was not very surprised to see commander Drago getting promoted to captain. From all Tarapik had read, he realized that Luke Drago deserved that promotion.

As the new pips were hanged on the new captain’s collar, came time for the toast.

luke said:

"To the Scavenger." He said. "To her crew. Her family."

captain Drago said and raised his cup. “Her family!” – Tarapik repeated along with everyone in the room. He didn’t realize it but his reply was sincere.

<tag Anyone>

OOC PS: Hey, I got promoted to lieutenant. Any ideas how to make it IC?

[desertpride]

Pride: Waited until the toast were done and walked up to there new captain. "sir if I may have a moment" They walked over to empty corner pride smiled at him he was happy for the man.

" Sir I will be leaving the ship for a while, it would seem I have been recalled to the home world to help decided on weather or not to join the federation. I have a seat on the council and must vote in person. This will leave you with out a pilot for a while. I hope that when this is done I might get to come back home. I wish you the best sir and good luck"

Pride walked away and headed to his quarters to pack time was short.