Continue here..... after  E-1......

<<<<<<<<<< Dusk and  Roy from Rec dec

 Arnie   and Slavic  greeted them, Arnie from the Bar and Slavic   gathering Glasses   and  snack baskets from tables. there were a few  couples    watching  the stars   zip by.

   Dusk  ordered  a  shake... Slavic waited for Roy's  order  as Dusk tok a  seat way on the  port side of the  massive   OB   window

 After  the Drinks and a basket of  'prestzel' things  arrives, Dusk said softly.....Has the Admiral told you want is happening in  the Sol System...

  She looks around, no one is paying any attention...as she waits for an answer.

Roy was caught a little flat-footed by the question...he'd prepared himself, mentally, for a wide variety of subjects, but this hadn't been anywhere on the list.  "Only in general terms, and nothing particularly recent," he answered, conversationally.

"Something new I should be aware of?"

  Dusk nodded  as she looked out int The Black,... There  has been some kind of MAjor ...Diplomatic...event, about to happen...

,,, We have  found out, through  our  dwindling  Spies and allies, That Ambassador Frans, a large  part of his  C0ommand staff and several  Angel High ranking Officers of the EDT, are traveling to  Vicrock, of a treaty signing that will bring   Vicrock with  full support of  the Solo System, The Empire and  The Paradise system, 


He will be on the SSN Madrid.... Three  other   SSN  Cap ships   will be with them...all of the  new, with Angel Influence in the Build.. there  will be  a some  Paradise Vessels, as well as some Empire  Vessels... two Paradise  Cap ships will be with them... They will be
 sailing under a diplomatic Banner.. But the Admiral  is set to warn them as soon as they leave Sol System...

 Though no one is sure...Thos is a powerplay, once  Vicrock signs..The  Empire and Paradise  must protect it..which..would mean, moving on The moons, Astra,  Fuji, and  perhaps Bura  and  Nivar... we  are too far away to  reach  these ship by the  Timne they reach Vicrock..Fuji and Bura  would have to use their defense fleet, and the  battle would  leave them weakened... a Fleet  from Paradise was seen on a Holomap, Just outs   Astra space... The Admiral  does not   want  Bura and Fuji weakened..and even with captured ships being sent to Astra  and Tortuga's  privateers ... we have to count on Skith to keep most pf the Paradise   fleets  at home...

 She Looked   sad, then looked at  Roy,Admiral Hack, sent Admiral Hennings to talk to father..Admiral Roles  wouldn't do it.... But we have had people, many who have been captured and died, working  on The Madrid.. C-10 lines the  Contact  of  the CApship's  Power sells, and  three  Trigger  relays were planted there as well...none..have been found... scans  show they are there and waiting.... Morrow  buoys will relay the  the Command  to Blow up the Madrid...and Ambassador Frans ,his  3  young 'wives'..staff..everyone on board... we may be lucky and  snare some notable Empire people who wanted to share in the Glory...

 as of now, You and  , i suppose  Father   have learned  about this.... even Fuji and Bura, no nothing..Beth found out   a bit ago....at 0800 a Hail will be sent to The Madrid...FAther is  going to  talk with  Ambassador  Frans..he..is..um...opened end  on what he has to say...but when the  time comes, he will pretend to trigger something, beth will send  messages  to the  Buoys..and the  Madrid will cease to exist.... Father, of  course, will look like  he broke Diplomatic protocol.... The Admiral is Going the Frame his warning  HAil, in the way that  we do not trust any thing from the Empire or their allies....and, they are enemy  warships in AP space.

 .I...I  asked The Admiral, why it must be done this way... he said, we will  eliminate  Frans..there should be a power vacuum on Olympus ..if   those  ships and the Paradise  fleet choose to attack, then we will have to break off from our current Run... I believe , The Admiral  has  had   us  Veer to Nivar..just in case...If the  Paradise Fleet attacks our holdings.. Fuji and Bura   will  try to  play defense...as  The Admiral Put it..we will get there late....The Admiral hopes the Skith will help, and he has  something 'in his back pocket'

 I asked why Father  would be asked to be the one 'responsible' for Ambassador Frans Death? He   rattled off a list of  things  since  Father was in the Academy..even Highschool  things.. Did he really steal a Mark IV Hammer from Olympus?.... But  Admiral HAck said, it  shoudl worry the Empire... showing our reach across The Black, and causing  Misgivings  among the new allies..if .....as, he says..'Father Does it   right'....Do you think Father  will agree to pretend  to kill Frans..

"Would he do it?" Roy echoed.  "Of course he would do it.  The only regret he might possibly have about it is that he wouldn't actually be the one killing Frans.  Given the opportunity, there are at least a hundred people on board that would kill Governor Frans if given half a chance...including his own daughter."

He shrugged, and added, "I'm not sure what the actual benefit will be from doing it this way...I suppose a lot depends on what, exactly, Shadow says, but I think it would cause a lot more panic if we sent a single ship to intercept them and made it look like we hit Frans' vessel with some kind of wonder weapon that blew it up with a single hit.  Not even Qarl plasma was that effective.  It'd have to be remote-piloted, though, or else it would be a suicide mission, because everything else in the area would be gunning for it after that shot, especially if it became apparent that there wasn't a second similar shot coming."

He shrugged, and added, "But if Shadow can drop hints that we have people on the inside...EDT, Angels, or others...that makes the whole alliance shaky as hell."  He shrugged, and gave a sour grimace.  "I think the concern about the Empire formalizing relations with Vicrock is overblown...the Angels might take the treaty seriously, but do you really think the Demons didn't already have formal alliances with Hyria, Nivar, or Aqra?  The closest thing we saw to Demons interceding to help defend their allies was the Demon forces on that pseudo-planetoid that we captured near Vera...and that was basically a token force.  We haven't seen a Demon battle fleet in a few years, now, despite the fact that we've been curb-stomping their allies right and left the entire time.  The Demon outpost on the edge of the Sol System doesn't count...it's been there for decades, if not centuries, and they STILL didn't muster reinforcements for it when we started moving to attack.  No matter where we attack, the Demons aren't going to show up until they're damned good and ready...and I'm frankly awestruck that their allies haven't figured that out yet and still think fighting for the Empire is somehow advantageous...how many other Empire allies do they need to see get screwed over as far as defensive treaties go before they get the fact that the Empire is a really shitty ally?"

He caught himself starting to get a little heated on the subject, and took a sip to give himself time to cool down before he resumed.  "But, yes...like I said, your father would do it in half a second, gladly, without the slightest compunction on the matter.  Total War, the Admiral said, even if he's backtracked on that numerous times and stopped short of annihilating entire planetary populations.  But if you're at war and you have a shot at a high-profile target that has significant strategic, tactical, or political value, you take it, unless the risk is far greater than the reward.  In this case, the risk is practically nonexistent.  And if Shadow didn't do it, there's a long line of people who'd gladly step up to take the job...starting with me."

  Dusk nodded  slowly, again looking out in the Black. She winced a bit as she  said,when Adem and Evert wanted to  'fix' me,  They were outraged, that  they could not. One of their techs  suggested  'disassembly'. But the Human DNA  would not allow that . Evert said  i would become. More human as  my life continued...Adem wanted to end that. He could not, Because  Admiral Hack was 'watching Closely' to what would be done with me...

  I learned of this, By one of my cousins chiding me ...but the effect was not what he intended... i was determined to Follow  Father and Mother's path...That led me to confrontation with Evert  , when the Battle Of The Line   Happened. I was so ashamed at being Verian, until we were permitted to join the battle

 The  amusing thing is, that cousin who chided me, is...from what i have learned, the only cousin to have survived   our attack on Vera...I often wonder where he went afterwards

I asked  Father, why war is  so complicated...he said it wasn't.."Good guys Kill bad guys so bad guys don't kill good  guys..."...How can we tell if we are good guys?

 Finishing her  Drink she said,I must go , get rest for tomorrow's show. I will be with the Admiral in the warroom at the bridge...he will be co-ordinating thing  from there, to make things  go smoother  , with out distracting  from Father's  performance...

Roy gave a kind of sad smile.  "It's tricky to think of war in terms of good guys and bad guys...in most wars, each side thinks it's the good guys...and history tends to paint whoever loses the war as the bad guys.  The American Revolution is recorded as a heroic battle against a tyrannical monarch...but if they'd lost the war, it could just as easily been recorded as an aborted insurrection by a bunch of ingrates."  He shrugged.

"I'm not fighting because I think I'm good and Demons are bad.  Demons intend to do harm to my kind, and I'm opposed to the idea.  Most people think that's a good reason to fight, which makes me a 'good guy', I guess...but I'm sure the Demons have a completely different take on the issue and I'm The Devil Incarnate, according to their story."  He snorted softly, and shrugged again.  "It's oversimplification to say, 'We're the good guys, and they're the bad guys', but some people like to simplify life as much as possible.  The whole idea of war is that the other guys in some way pose a threat to your way of life, if not your existence.  The Demons want to eat us.  We want to take away their easiest source of food and breeding potential."

He paused, and chuckled again.  "It gets hazier when you get into EDT and systems that are signing treaties just so they can honor an older treaty and stab the new ally in the back.  But that's a long walk down a very philosophical road.  It's easier to just say that anyone who wants us dead are bad guys that we want dead first.  Pretty sure we'd be satisfied if they'd just stop wanting us dead, but the odds on that happening are pretty damned long."

He stopped for a moment, then asked, "Wait...you say you have a cousin who survived Vera?  And disappeared after that?"  He suddenly had become sharply focused and alert, and concern was in his voice.

  Dusk Listened to Roy. yes...he was the Oldest. He was on board the Hermes when they came to  get  Shade and Myself. Thet were  supposed to  'ease or  minds"..none of them really liked us?..though they were more tolerant of me, sine i consented to go. They had very little   problem turning on Shade, counting him as 'broken'...

 Adem  viewed the  Demons as Rivals? He fought them when needed , worked with them when needed, But As the  Delta Fleet  grew,,and  Enemy ships  were destroyed or captured,Adem had  felt the need to work with Humans.  But in his words, 'They Need  kept in their place'


 Things Shifted  as Shade  and I came to be.. Evert tried to hamper the Delta Fleet by removing herself as ambassador... Admiral Hack surprised her by Elevating Shade.That Led  to Granmod coming out  and Joining the Delta fleets, after..what she called...tests.

..My Cousin was a verian Trooper..a  young  LT? Adem kept him close..trained him...and it was decided  tht he would be a 'Griffon'..i never knew what that was? I But he started to take Pilot training after that..he had  sent a COM Message to me bore the battle at Vera... saying he  would  destroy Shadw  and FAther, and  Come to get me, to make a new  Verian race?....after the Battle was over, and Father Killed Adem..i got one message from him..." next time"... I assumed he died after?..

Roy's eyes narrowed in thought as Dusk related the story.  "I don't think so," he replied, to her final statement.  "We haven't seen it for a while...but there was a mystery fighter that popped up, that first battle after Vera--the one on the Elipsian planetoid.  Popped in and out, like it had Qarl teleport systems...but it did it faster than anyone could calculate.  And the pilot kept calling Shadow "Uncle"..."

He looked at Dusk.  "Adem was the one who put Lady into the fighter plane, apparently to try and use her to gather intel on us and possibly thinking she'd be compliant with any plans he had to utilize her to hamper our progress.  That didn't work out the way he'd intended, obviously..."  He gave an awkward grin and gestured at Dusk, in a way that included the entirety of her existence.

"But who's to say she was the only one?  Or that they would only ever use Human craft for that process?  What if this 'Griffon' program you mentioned was cybernetically binding Verians to fighter craft, of various sorts, to try and keep the Verians in a position to pull strings on all sides?  And what if that mystery ship was your cousin?"

 Dusk looked   concerned...would mother have turned on Father?... she shakes her head,

  everything in me says  she would not!. But My Cousin seemed a very   angry  person. much like  Adem and  Evert themselves..

 if  my cousin merged, he make  be locked in the fighter..There would be no place on Vera  he could go to get  recovered?...I do not know where he could go?  His Name Jusa.. He  is. many years my elder.

Roy grimaced a little.  "I think we already know the answer as to whether Lady could ever have turned against Shadow.  The fact that he's here, and she's celebrated as a hero of the APF, says it all.  But that doesn't mean that Adem wasn't expecting that to be an option.  All those headstrong genes that you and Shade have didn't JUST come from your father...it runs on both sides of the family."

He sat back and shrugged.  "And if what I'm extrapolating from all of this is true, your cousin may not have any interest in being 'recovered'.  I didn't hear all of the conversation between them, but what I did hear...and the transcripts of what I missed...sound like your cousin is all-in.  He wouldn't even consider an attempt at recovery as long as Shadow is alive...he's taken it upon himself to avenge the family honor, or something like that, and he's going to kill Shadow or die trying."

< from Hanger Dec. befpre Bura))  Shadow

  Entering the  OB Dec,  Arnie and   Slavic were  busy with a few  couples and such, he  signals for a soda as he  takes a seat near the  port hull, lokign at the Little Green/blue  dot that  would be getting bigger

-------->>>>>>>From Med Tech

 NA-CE walked onto the Observation Dec and looked around; everyone could tell it was her first time on the Dec. She saw the LC, she nodded and smiled and just looked around not really sure what you did on this Dec.

  there were stand up tables in the back  6 rows  of  theater  tiers  seats..and  a railign  near the  Metaglass windows..

 the Bar  was to the  port side.. and  'sit  down tab;es  . were in a  line  behoght the   last  tier of  seats, and along the starboard  wall

 Shadow stood  against the hull to the  port by the railing. Arnie was  head  dow the  slight  ramp way towards him..people were scattered, but  most were  on the starboard side , where it was darker and more  intimate

The  Bar  was  along the port side  wall

 Slavic, a slemder, Tall  Nivarian looked to  NA-CE...you hear to drink, or look, or both.

 NA-CE nodded and smiled at the tall slender Navarian, " I would have to say both, just been assigned as a new Combat Med Tech, just making my tour around the Hermes. Do you know any Angel drinks, surprise me I would enjoy that." NA-CE moved closer to the bar and took a seat.

 Slavic  pours  a light Blue  liquid, with a slice  of  Blue   Burain Pear  and  red  Burian pear. a  Yellow   syrup is poured in and begins to 'float' around the   pear slices.

This is  the   Paradise  Mist.. The  yellow  is the    Gasses that float through the Paradise  system..

  its is sweet and tangy at the same time.

.................

  Shadow  and Arnie talked  by the railing , whit the LC gesturing towards the  far off planet.

..................

 Will and Cora  where  sitting  close   in one of the front  row seats on the  starboard side.

 NA-CE smiled took a seat at the bar and looked around. " Thank you very much it is beautiful like my home use o be." NA-CE lets her wrist get scanned. She will take a sip and then ask the obvious question to her," How does a Nivarian get assigned as a bartender on the Hermes?" That had to be a better story then hers, how a Blue Moon Angel did but that has happened before as far as NA-CE knew she was only the third Navarian on the Hermes the other 2 where 're-assigned' to the Hermes by Admiral Hack from what she heard.

  The  woman  frowned a bit.I was a bartender on a pleasure vessel, then went to  Etna....The Hermes #2  Bartender was killed  during  a parasite shuttle   attack?..i am not  certain.... I found out  they needed a Bar Tender....  The Hermes bombed  my planet, killed millions  until we  surrendered  and   joined the   APF.

The Admiral and His  wife  paid  for those attacks, by losing their  unborn... he eyes  shift to Shadow,there are a few others  that need to pay for what happened as well.

    Arnie left Shadow  to   clean some tables  and  ask around for 'refills'

   The LC checked his COM  and then looked  towards  Bura. It would be  14 hours, give or  take  before the fleet  arrived.

   Downing His  drink, he  left the empty on the Bar with a 10 cred tip. and Headed to SEC.

Shadow to SEC>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

 NA-CE watched and listened to Slavic closely, she held a grudge for the LC for attacking her world that was obvious and expected. " Sounds like you hold a grudge on the LC there. Your people not only surrendered but saw the error in your ways hopefully and now have joined the APF, this is a good day is it not."

Billie headed in, raking her fingers through her hair with a sigh. Her thoughts felt a bit scattered and she wasn’t in the greatest of moods…but she wanted to see Arnie and just get some comfort there. She gave anyone that she  made eye contact with the briefest of nods before making her way to where Arnie was cleaning tables. “Hey,” she gave a slight smirk, waiting for him to straighten before giving him a hug, physically just relaxing in his arms.

Arnie  chuckled softly,hey?  Tunnel run couldn't have been that hard?... You ready for the Survival run? Make sure  you drink alot of water. . He  let her  go and  grabbed the Glasses he   had  gathered and they walked to the  BAr, where  Slavic  was talking to NA-CE

"Tunnel runs are always terrible...I choke..." she gave a pout as she followed after him. "And as much as I think I am ready for any kind of run...I usually follow the same pattern..." Her tunnel runs were all pretty terrible for the most part and no matter how hard she pushed herself...she seemed to choke in those.

  they reached the bar. Arnie  fixed her  mock,'Calimate Summer'...it is important to realize..this   run is  as real as it can be  done.... LC says its  an untamed part of Bura..and there  make be   some Dusters  hiding there, or stray empire folks..then there are the Animals?..its  not a 'fun run'

 NA-CE smiled at Slavic waiting for a response as others came into the OB dec.

"Thank you..." she said softly, taking the drink. "Oh trust me...I don't think any of the runs are fun in any way, shape, or form...this is no different. Of course I am going to try my best..." She sighed a bit, admittedly nervous for this survival run.

Slavic turned to  NA-CE,it  depends?  Not all of Nivar is happy to be in the APF. We liked it better  as  independent. but we were  conquered...and now we are part of  a 'new  Empire'

 I have  no love for the Demons...but they did not shell our planet

 NA-CE listened to Slavic and then answered," Yes true but the APF did not start the All out War the Demons did, blame being part of the Empire for your planet getting shelled. For that reason many in the APF dont want Nivarians as members. Yes a lot had happened this is All out war but wouldnt it be better for your people to fully embrace the APF and their ways."

 Slavic shrugs,the planet is making creds... less of our ships are captured or destroyed, since the ESN , no longer hunts them..there are pirates and privateers out there..they are seized or destroyed...

 I blame alot of  our problems on the Bitch who is now our Leader, she resides on the Green Moon where she was once, nothing more the n the  'warden' there...but she has the mating attraction  for your   LC, she  sniffed  around your  SM as well... I think that helped put her in power, she make s  trips to the  Planet to  supervise  and   control  the Nivarians. she  fails to think of how many died...

...............

 Arnie   gave   Billie  a  comforting  smile,they call it a survival run, for a reason...you treat it, just like you were  shot down... they'll be things that  can kill you down there.

She nodded, sighing a bit. "I...it's not like I am going to treat it like it's a walk in the park...I take these things very seriously...I just hope that I don't choke like I normally do." Billie took a sip from her glass. "Maybe I just need to start running..." She didn't like that idea but if it would help her in this...

  Arnie   smiles a bit,time  for you  to get sleep...drink alot of water  before  bed.make sure your weapon is  read...

 he gives her a  hug.....COM me  when you guys  are on the way to the Capitol and I'll meet you there

Slavic     nodded to NA-CE  and began to shoo people  to the doors.

She returned the hug, giving him a deep kiss before letting him go, nodding at his words. "I will...see you." It was clear that she didn't want to go but knew that she had to...with one last look to Arnie and a soft smile, Billie headed for her quarters.

>>>>To Officer's Quarters

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< from  hanger Dec  after Burain shore leave

 Dusk  and  Roy entered. Slavic was there   setting up  drinks and ringing a little Bell. At least until  Arnie  made it back

 Asked  for a  Burian Jungle  and waited to see  what Roy ordered, while Dusk  send  a COM to the rec dec  for two slices of  cheesecake with   cherry topping.

Slavic  said   it  a  slightly course  mannerI hear  the LC  Killed more of my people on Bura  during 'training'...

 Dusk  shruggedfather says sometimes, you play stupid games, you win stupid prizes

——> Non-Coms

Once she had locked up her quarters Tarja would walk with Andruss to the observation dec with her stopping just in the doorway as she tried to take in the view in front of her. She’d been in the Black for a little while now but this was probably the first time she’d that she’d seen a view like that, and certainly the first time she’d seen Bura ”That…is impressive” she eventually managed to say, with them then heading towards the bar.

As they headed over she would see SM Spencer with a young lady with colour shifting eyes, with Tarja giving him a polite nod of acknowledgment but otherwise not disturbing him as she waited for the woman behind the bar to finish serving them, with her playfully asking Andruss ”so is this where you take all the girls?” as they waited.

  Andruss chuckles,you should see it  from inside  a mech, clamped to the outside of a Assault  shuttle.

 I come here by myself alot, there is only a couple  people at a  time  here, when we cats off.//today will be  filled  as   everyone  tries to realize   shore leave is over.

Slavic's tone was not lost on Roy.  "Well, it would have helped if the Nivarians in question hadn't rather stupidly tried to ambush both myself and Admiral Hack.  We did end up with three new largs added to the Hermes contingent, as a result, however, and a lot of the old-guard larg masters who insist that the only way to control their largs is abuse and intimidation will no longer be fucking up largs.  So I wouldn't consider it a loss, overall..."  Where Slavic's tone had been coarse, Roy's was bitingly clinical...artificially clinical, to the point where it could easily read as subtle sarcasm.

He raised two fingers in a casual wave to Tarja, acknowledging her nod, without really detaching his attention from Slavic.

 Slavis  lime  green  eyes  shifted  a it, her  mouth was  a tiny line  that tapered to a frown..I do not understand? why would you care how they are trained, as  long as they go kill enemies? Those Larg masters..it is a  high honor..even higher then Fighter pilots... then you play with your LArgs.. feed them on the rec Dec?..and You have a child  helping train them, calling himself  a Larg Master. That is  a slap in the  face to real Larg masters.

 Dusk shrugged,perhaps the   human boy is a ..how they say..natural?

”I possibly will, zero G training is next up for unit” Tarja mused thoughtfully, with her needing to get back to training her unit so they would be ready for the next engagement mindful of the fact that they still needed to impress despite the wargames on Bura.

Deciding that she needed to change the subject before her stress levels went through the roof Tarja would turn her attention to Andruss ”well it is nice here…” she said turning to take in her surroundings noting the secluded nature of some of the seating suspecting that it was a popular make out spot for couples, before turning back to him with a frown ”…you really not bring girls up here?” she asked finding it hard to believe that she was the only person he’d asked out…though come to think of it Morgan and Kira had been the ones to do the actual asking…

 Andruss shruggedno one seemed to be excvited about spendig time with me.  We spent time on the planet together, this is  a nice play on the ship.

 Slavic  got there  drink as she bantered  with the SM.  The  woman whiet shifting  skin color and eyes, seemed ready to leave the bar for seats, when the SM  was ready

There was a bit of a nod along with the usual hand gesture she used when Andruss spoke, with her finding the whole situation to be kind of sad as he seemed to be a genuinely nice guy ”Would you like to go and find seat?” she would ask when their drinks arrived, with her picking up her glass of vodka ”…and for record I think you are nice guy and I enjoyed spending time with you” she softly said, placing her free hand upon his shoulder as she did so.

Roy got a cynical grin on his face as Slavic stated her loaded question.  He had no problem fielding it, however...

"What do I care?  Considering that our 'playful' largs cleared ten times more terrain than ALL of the Nivarian largs, combined...and then turned around and beat those 'better' largs that the Nivarians sent after us...you better believe I care. First off, I care because the largs deserve better than that.  They aren't the dumb brutes your people told us they were, you've just been keeping them too scared to do anything that would show they were smart.  On top of that, when someone demonstrates a more effective way to utilize a weapon, it takes an idiot of colossal proportions to turn around and say that it's wrong."

He knew full well that his words could be inflammatory...but he was beyond caring, frankly.  If Slavic was going to turn into another Nivarian turncoat, he was more than content to speed the process along and get it over with.

"We're out here to defeat the enemy. If Nivar updated the techniques of their larg training, those largs could be the best security and assault forces that we could send planetside...they're tougher than Hyrians or Ape-Folk, faster than Largrans, and more deadly than any Demon could ever claim to be.  And those dead assholes down there were effectively crippling their animals...as evidenced by the fact that five of our largs beat five teams of largs, and Larry took down and killed one of their Alphas, because the damned thing was too slow to even make it a close fight."  While it would have been easy to let his temper build, and become heated about it, he was instead dismissive, as if the explanation was so patently obvious that he considered it almost trivial.

"Besides," he added, giving Slavic a measured look, "we don't need allies that are going to turn around and try to stab us in the back, especially when their justification is something as mind-bogglingly petty as disagreeing with the way we use our largs, because it makes them look bad.  News flash--if someone with a fraction of the experience you have can make you look incompetent at your chosen field of interest, it's because you are, in fact, incompetent.  Just because it's trained incompetence doesn't excuse it...if you're too stupid to see that someone else's techniques are getting better results than yours, you need to be replaced by people who will actually get the job done."

He shrugged, and gestured out the observation window at the planet below.  "Like I said, not exactly a major loss for the APF..."

   Slavic   frowned . Ypu will see someday. Nivairan LArgs will  win the day, and show your  'pets' as nothing more  then house  guard


Dusk leads  Roy to the   starboard   side  to sit with their drinks.Id Larry had never  been brought  aboard, would we care about   Largs?

  the lights  flashed  as   the  clamps   Hissed off the Hermes  and  she started  to slide  away  to begin the  Grouping of the 4  Delat sections.

Roy gave Slavic's comment a bark of derisive laughter, as Dusk led him away.  He was still shaking his head as he took his seat, but he listened to Dusk's question.

"If Larry hadn't come aboard, we would know nothing more about largs than what the Nivarians initially told us.  There'd be no reason to care about them.  But that's kind of like saying that if the Ape-Folk hadn't volunteered to join the APF, we wouldn't care about them.  They did, and we do."

He shot a glance in Slavic's direction, and added, "And the Nivarians are lucky that some of them have distinguished themselves amongst the APF, because this is the second time they've tried to stab us in the back.  And this time was even worse, because the first time, they hadn't allied with us yet." His eyes narrowed slightly.

"I try, really hard, to judge individuals on their own merits, and not stick them behind a label that lets me easily dismiss them as one sort or another.  But sometimes the group keeps doing such bone-headed things that it becomes really difficult to draw the distinction between individuals and the rabid mob."

  Dusk   sipped her  drink watching  Bura  slowly  drop away.

..............

 Andruss lead  Tarja Yeah, I had a great time? I mean, i never  get to see a planet without being encased in1 ton of metal.,

 They move to the left of  center, front  row, as the blinking lights  signal cast off.

With the discussion between Roy and the woman behind the bar quickly escalating into an argument Tarja was relieved to be led away by Andruss to a pair of seats that offered them a view of Bura through the giant window, fearing that she would be dragged into it as well…not that she knew anything about Largs other than how to kill them ”This is first time I see planet…other than when I left Earth” Tarja quietly said as she took a seat next to Andruss with her taking a moment to enjoy the view as she sipped her drink.

After quietly sitting beside him for a few minutes Tarja would quietly ask ”you not spend much time with girls I think? Yes?”

  Andruss  nodded  as he   looked at Bura.you see these  planets  from here....right? and all you see, is whatever  color ball   it is.... you really don't 'see' it until you on in Atmo..Astra  isn't  bad, I trained there for a month or so..Aqra is wet, Green and Blue... it would be nice , if you didn't have to worry about fishfolk trying to eat you.


  He looked a bit  awkward,No?  I mean..not  like this? You fight along side of them..train  with them, hand on the rec dec.. But  everyone  has  thier  'idea'  of  who they want to hang with...right?.. I guess i was never much of  an idea.

Quietly sipping her drink she would listen as Andruss spoke of Bura and Aqra ”yes I heard of Aqra, technicians were looking into waterproofing so suits could work there” she said with a nod, with her freehand absently moving at the same time, with her supposing that she would get the chance to visit at some point.

It was then that Andruss would begin to awkwardly answer her question causing her to suspect that she had been a little too blunt, with her giving him an understanding look as he spoke ”Girls perhaps waiting for you to make first move…also girls can be a little too subtle with hints and get frustrated when they’re not picked up on” she said giving him a look that hinted that he had missed a few of her own ”but is relief, I was starting to think you didn’t like me that way” she added whilst looking down into her glass as a hint of colour touching her usually pale cheeks.

  Andruss had a bit of  an embarrassed smile himself.Yeah....well... some of us  guys  Jump  at any hint...others   can't or won't  take a 'hint' afraid they will be wrong... then there is all those in the Middle.

 he  shrugs a bit as he  sips his drink.I am oddly fine with that? I don't have the MAke up in me, to be a 'ladies  man'. so i need some 'down to earth' interactions....

 putting a hand on her  arm,This has  been a very nice time, from the start of shore leave..even up  to now.

...................

Dusk   relaxed, leaned to Roy just a bit.so..we were going to beat up the  Vampics, Until   The 'late' Ambassador  Frans thought he would stage a grand  PR show  , and go to Vicrock.
 But Vicrock is not in the direction we are traveling Do you think the Admiral would stop at
 Fuji...or  would  we sail to astra?...or even the   Paradise  Moons?

As Andruss talked, Tarja would quietly sip her drink, offering him a hint of a smile when he said he’d enjoyed today ”Yes, I enjoyed today too…has been a long time since I spend time with guy, I mean…walking and having drinks and meal…I used war as reason to keep things…straight forward…perhaps time to try something a little more…um…complex is not really word I’m looking for…you understand what I’m saying, yes?” she said fairly confident in the fact that she wasn’t really making sense but hoping that he would get the general idea of what she was trying to get across ”…also I’m thinking I am older than you? You are twenty-one I think, yes?”

Andruss   shrugged...I will be  23...soon.. at 18 i  signed up  for the navy, and after boot camp  went into  Mech training  which is  about 2 years, if you want  to serve on Cap ship.


 I cut  some corners , because some of  my Training over lapped.

Roy forced aside his annoyance with Slavic, pondering for a moment on Dusk's question.  "Well, I don't recall having heard any serious problems at Astra, so if we go there, it would be just to check in.  That said, I could see stopping there on our way to Paradise..."

He took a sip of his drink, giving himself some time to think through that.  "We did discuss taking Paradise, not all that long ago.  It would go a long way toward closing our back door, so to speak...one of the reasons the Empire keeps getting new inroads on territories that we've already fought over is because the Angels are inviting them in.  No Paradise means Ge-Fi no longer has the illusion of calling on Angel reinforcements, and no Angel navies helping usher Demon forces into APF space."  He took another sip, before adding, "It would make a lot of sense to close that up before we venture into Vampic space or tackle any other Empire forces.  It'd also send a clear message to any APF dissidents who are cooperating, thinking that the Angels will pick up the pieces...there would still be Angels left, but it would be the Moons, and not Paradise, that's providing the leadership."

He shrugged.  "If I was the one setting policy and calling strategy, that's the direction I'd go.  It's a single planet, with a space navy that hasn't seen real combat in over a thousand years, and there are APF member worlds right there to help cover the attack and watch our flanks.  Pretty much the only thing Paradise has going for it is their reputation.  It's their most effective weapon, and it's about time someone took it away.  But that makes a lot more tactical and strategic sense than starting a campaign against an enemy whose real spread through the galaxy is unknown to us."

He chuckled, and added, "Besides, think of the quality of intel we could collect if we take the Angels.  They had, a thousand years ago, the best star charts and the most accurate knowledge of who was where in the galaxy.  That info is probably not accurate, at this point, but it gives us a starting point.  And if they've been actively working with the Empire, they should have details about who else is helping the Demons, and how, and possibly even where.  And that would be OUR best weapon, going forward.  We're reaching the limits of familiar space for APF member worlds...anything we can get that will give us more clarity on what we're moving into from here will be helpful."

It wasn’t as bad as she had feared, but twenty-Three was still a pretty big difference ”huh…you look younger, you must have youthful skin” she quietly said, using her finger to briefly caress his cheek as she continued to speak ”…I unfortunately am thirty-one” she said, hoping her little confession wouldn’t put him off but knowing that it was best to get it out of the way early on so it didn’t cause problems further down the line. Trying her best to resist the urge to ask if he was ok with dating an older woman, with her kind of scared to learn the answer, she would instead look out at the stars for several minutes with her simply enjoying the moment before asking ”So why mechs? What made you choose that branch?”

   Andruss shrugs,31  and 23  three  may had  been a  big thing 200 years ago.. But Angel  food slowed  everything, so  you might even find a dashing Captain somewhere, who is in his  60's or 70's  and still looks   30?

The  Kids who were born the last  50 years or so on earth, have  been getting angelfood in thier system since conception...  Then he  had a  surprised look on his  face  as he  slowly said,....does....my age....bother you? he looked a little sad, but determined to let her state the fact if it did.

 As he waited as he added, I have a slight balence problem? So i could not be a fight pilot. Captain Morris and the LC went through my Med  record, and offered to let me try my hand at  fling Nova?  I declined.  I still wanted to fight, but just being a rifleman. I don't  think i could have  helped much, But inside a mech, i am stronger then most enemies  we face... Just have to hope    they don't knok me  down or  take  the Legs off...

...................

 Dusk  was relaxed as she sipped her  drink.There is to be a  Lunch tomorrow. Part of it it  to offer that little  woman....sam?... the Burian ambassador  job, since she was seconded to  the fleet anyway..the other Part is to go over  , what we will do as we  head for that side of the  APF owned  quads.... You are to be there, If I understand it right.  Captain Morris will represent the Fighter  wing...Father?...is not  invited?

”They may look thirty, but in here they would be older, may struggle to find common interests” she replied, tapping the side of her head to show that although they would look young that they would act like an older person, not to mention lack the benefits of growing up at the same time as their partner.

When asked if his young age bothered her she would look a little surprised, with her clearly having not considered it ”no…young, cute guy is showing interest in me, why would I be bothered? I’m more worried you grow bored of me and look for pretty girl closer to your age she explained, hesitating a moment before adding ”I have got doing stupid things and partying out of system” hoping that he understood that if he was looking for someone to go out clubbing and drinking all night with that she probably wasn’t the girl for him.

As he explained how he came to be a mech rider due a medical condition, she would give him an understanding look ”yes, being in suit gives same feeling…I still think you would like using suit, we should go for walk on spine of ship one day, let me see you in tight fitting undergarment” she softly chuckled with a teasing look in her eyes before finishing her drink ”would you like another? Or should we go and find shop?”

  Andruss  smiled... well.. if  it is  how old the mind is, them many folks  would not  want anyone else...look at Captain Si. She is  waht..800? maybe  more.  The Admiral is   in his   40s. they seem to fit together  pretty well

  he looked at his drink...let us  have one more drink. Then we have to get your  fridge stocked  so you don 't starve....I mean..sheesh?  you couldn't  bring  some  chips? he grinned.

Roy grinned.  "Yes, your father has a rather...volatile way of expressing his opinions.  I'm blunt, but generally not antagonistic.  He seems to have the two switched around."  He sat back, thinking for a moment.

"They're making Sam an ambassador?" he asked, clearly surprised by the notion.  "I mean, by comparison to Shade's experience level when they made him ambassador, she's got a lot more mileage under her belt...but his promotion was as much a matter of political expedience as recognition...making him Ambassador cancelled out Adem or Evert having any say on APF Council decisions..."  He seemed genuinely puzzled at the notion of Sam being an ambassador...but finally shrugged.  It was another one of those policy issues that he was perfectly content to not have to resolve...that was officer country, and for all that he was a member of the Corps governing board, due to being the Sergeant Major of the Corps, he was still a non-com, and his focus was on executing policy, not creating it.

"Guess they wanted another live body at these meetings, to limit potential interference via comm issues.  Signals can be traced, other messages can be inserted...it's a lot harder to do that with a live spokesperson at the table."

He took another sip.  "I'm actually surprised they're asking me in on this one...I made my opinion on the matter very well known at the last such meeting they had.  I think your Grandmod was about ready to levitate out of her chair in anger...if she had lasers for eyes, I'd have been burned to ash."

 Dusk Giggled,I think it was better for Granmod to be InCharge of Just Uden?  we  add Caiimate  and Vear, now she has  three  planets, with a very bad  Neighbor In Roussa.. But it should work out. Many Calimites  are eager to serve.

Roy gave a noncommittal sniff.  "Interesting, how she was all for fighting when Uden was under the thumb of Vera...but now that the whole Vera system is now under Udenese control, she's all about caution and restraint.  That doesn't sound like a Warlord...that sounds like a politician..."  The distaste in his voice made clear his soured opinion of the latter title.

 Dusk nodded ,she does  spend alot of time  with paper for  food , and supplies, then she  does on out Tac Maps....  we are trying to get a  council with a leader from every planet in the sytem,  to help govern, and Let   Granmod worry about war things.

”Maybe…though Angels are different I think…but does make eight years sound trivial” she replied with her deciding that she didn’t know too much about romance especially between those of different species and age groups though she supposed it had to work on some level at least.

After agreeing to another drink Andruss would point out that they still needed to get her some food so she didn’t starve with her not even having a bag of crisps to her name ”not true! What do you think I ate on transport here?” she said with a chuckle before nestling in a little closer to him ”So you like older women then? Aren’t I lucky girl” she quietly said with obvious relief now that the elephant in the room had been addressed. It was then that she would recall his comments about guys not picking up on subtle hints with her smiling as she softly whispered to him ”that is hint to say I want you to say I’m pretty then kiss me…”

  Andruss   smiled,I..I guess  i have alot  to learn? All thought all good Lookign women , knew, they were good looking?

 then he leaned in,the other part . I need  some practice with.... he  kissed her  softly  on the Lips,  his free  hand  holding hes.

Roy shrugged slightly.  "That's a good plan...I just hope that she's actually interested in concentrating on war things.  It seems like she was ready for war when it was leading to a confrontation with Adem...she got what she wanted, he's out, she's in charge, and everyone can see that he wasn't the leader he claimed to be.  But ever since she got all that, she's been fixated on denigrating Shadow and trying to keep her system out of the fighting."

He shook his head.  "It wouldn't bother me...she's only one voice, after all...but because of her reputation, people follow her example without asking why she's doing it.  And that's pretty much how we ended up at the point where we're seriously talking about invading Paradise and wiping out a significant portion of what's left of their navy...people just went along with it, because of their reputation, and didn't ask whether this new plan of the Angels' was any good, or why they were pushing it."

well?  we know , that Granmod cannot  vote on anything, as the  die  has been cast... I  for one, would  Like to   know , so I know  what my ship will be doing. OH..LOOK..

 8 ships  were Out in front.  looking a  big as a  Cigar, but   would be  , at least, half again, as look as the Hermes.. 4 ships  split up , heading towards   the section they were alotted to.. 4 other ships were  more  square, and wider, and taller.. they   stayed together  as the followed  one   Vessel that was    going to pass under the  Hermes  and  take up a spot  in the Delta 1  formation.. the  other   4 were transports

 A voice  from across the   way called out...Those  are Skith!

 the    ESN Blue on  top, and  bright  Skith  Yellow. but the Blue looked like it  dripped  down to offer thier own take of  Camo

Granmod said, The Skith  do not follow the   APF, they Follow  Admiral Hack. Angels  do not like the  Skith..this will be interesting.

A slow grin crossed Roy's face as he recognized the ships, even before the unnamed voice identified them.  It had been a long time...but the impact of the Skith had been indelible, and they stuck in his mind.  "Oh, yes...this will be interesting..."

He thought for a minute, before commenting, "In practical terms, the Skith following Admiral Hack will put them pretty much on the same course as the APF...they're following the Admiral, too, even though they like to argue about it and give the impression that they're somehow directing him.  As long as the war is in process, Admiral Hack is the de facto leader of the APF, for the simple fact that he's going to do what he thinks is best, regardless of what the APF leadership directs.  One thing we've learned, as Humans, is that politicians are terrible at fighting wars."

”Hmm…some do…others not so much, but all like hearing it especially when feeling insecure” she softly replied to Andruss as she leaned in a little closer to him, a smile playing across her lips as he spoke of needing practice ”practice all you want, I’m happy to teach” she whispered moments before he leaned in to kiss her.

Gently squeezing his hand, Tarja would fumble the glass of vodka onto the chairs armrest so she could put her arm around him and fully enjoy the moment with it quickly becoming apparent that this wasn’t her first rodeo. Needless to say she would completely miss the ships flying past the windows with her attention firmly fixed on the young man kissing her.

Eventually she would break off the kiss looking surprisingly flustered for somebody as cool and reserved as she usually was ”ok…so…we make very good start on that”

 Dusk  gave a shrug,nothing i have seen, whether from Mother's  programming, or  being   with  Father, or the Fleet. Shows  that   Anyone in the APF is  'eager' to fight.  If one was to remove the Ape Folk and the Hyrians  from  our  support, the next closest   peoples would be  the Sanri and Occui, who  fight, because   the Fleet has   aided them..all the rest have  joined because it means they are safe, and hope to profit from out Victories?  Even  Unden has  sent  forces, because  we have   'settled' the region...



Shade seems , overly aggressive towards   the Angels. I do not know  why? We were not yet hatched, when the Angels  began to  'thin' their supplies  and aid to The Fleet.

 Her COMs  beeped ...Granmod is wishing  my presence ..I think she  will  wait  another  hour?  she smiled  up  as  Roy , nestled in  as the stars  seemed to  be  gaining speed  as the fleet  moved  forward.


....................................

 Andruss smiles   as  he  slips and arm  around  Tarja.That was....very nice!... it  is  plain to see, i need, many more practice sessions,,,,

”oh yeah, we definitely need to work on that some more” Tarja replied with something that sounded alarmingly close to a giggle as she nestled up to Andruss and rested her head on his shoulder before then retrieving her drink.

She would watch as a group of unfamiliar looking ships manoeuvred around in front of the observation decs oversized window for several minutes as she enjoyed the feel of his arm around her ”so did you think you would be spending time with me when I catch you on hangar dec, or were you looking at other girls?” Tarja would eventually ask out of curiosity, wondering how much them currently being together was down to her catching him peeking and saying something or if he had been working up the courage to make a move himself.

 Andruss  gave a short laugh.I did not? I am a mech rider and out of the three we have, I am the  low guy?  Kira is  in charge, Morgan could be, his was  riding mechs  when  Captain Rivets  was a Master Chief...the storygoes,   the then 'LT  Hack' broke formation with  hsi wingman to say Rib=vets and his Mech riders on the Battle of Olympus Mons... the two fighters took out  most of the Demon and Largran Mechs..and Hack was shot  down, He stood and  fought with the mech riders, the rest of the  Hack's  flight  came back to clean up... Kira  has
 been  boarding ships from the inside and outside  for years...

 TThen there is me.... replacing  a string of  guys  who either Got killed, or made mechs look so bad, they wanted to can the  service.  I mean? I'm a vet? there  guys with more rank, and older, who don't have the Jump offs i have...But that's not real markable to  hot power armor  chicks!

Arnie  set  Billie up with a  Burian Storm. greens  and Purples  swirled  around int he drink.

  Arnie  grabbed a  bowl and filed it  with pretzel things, took them  down  to  Roy and Dusk, clearing his throat as he neared them.

Handing Roy the Bowl  He looked up to see the last of the Skith Transports go below them...Nice  Shore Leave?  Nice an quiet, save for that 'survival games thing... funny thing?  there are Vids  coming out of the EMS ships, making its  way through  the fleet.Seems like there were some Samri and Occui who went of the rails.. some folks  shot them up, and there were rumors  of  some  animals   knocking them off.

he Chuckled a bit  as he turned to go...Admiral Roles  said something in one of the Vids, of  'blade wounds  consistent  with trench knife, Blade Technique... there also
 was a small  Creshian Vessel One day out from Bura.it was captured..22 captives  aboard, either women or children?..seems  as though, those  Bugs were chained together  and
 hung from the back  of  a Burian BU , on its  way back to  Bura  with the Prisoners... EMS claimed the Bug Vessel...Roles said, 'it might come in handy"..

 Just catching you up on rumors.... he winked.

Roy grimaced at the observation that few in the APF were eager to fight.  "Anyone who truly understands war isn't eager to fight, unless they've got a few screws loose in the head.  And I include your father in that...sometimes I wonder about his mental state, even though he's probably the best friend I have in the world and the closest thing to family that I claim. But sometimes he's just a little too happy to make someone else suffer a gruesomely painful death..."  He shrugged, and grinned when Dusk declared that Lilit could wait for another hour.

He gave Arnie a nod, smiling in appreciation at the bowl of pretzel-things.  He managed to look duly concerned at the report about the EMS personnel being taken out on Bura, even though he knew full well what Arnie was talking about.

"Bura's a beautiful planet, but you've gotta respect it, or it will make you pay.  Hopefully, the example's set for other EMS personnel in the future to be more mindful of their activities and surroundings..." He grabbed a pretzel and tossed it whole into his mouth, chewing on it with audible crunches.

"Don't be so sure...Power armour has bad rep too so we have lots to prove, also career isn't what interests me in partner" Tarja replied with her dark eyes flickering up to briefly admire his looks before returning to the view port as she quietly sipped her vodka "but I think it is time for things to turn around for us, no?" she added deciding that the mech riders and Armoured infantry were due some good luck and perhaps the opportunity to knock those pretty flyboys off of their pedestal as the top dogs of the service.

It was extremely comfortable resting up against Andruss with his arm around her and a drink in her hand but unfortunately she had things to attend to and this wasn't getting them done "OK, you best show me to shop, so I can eat tomorrow" she would say with an obvious sigh before she finished the last of her drink and made a move to sit up.

Andruss  smiled, I agr4ee,  our units  are  alot like ...i dunno?  Bipedal  tanks? The mechs  are the  Heavy  tanls,  AI is like the Light tanks..and the troopers  we support, and who support us, are Like  Light Tanks,

 he finished his  drink, and stood,Off to the Civie section.... where you can get your  goodies... . He left his  glass on the holder, I thinhk we  can  left the glasses  for the Nivarian to clean up. Give her something to do, instead of  Bitch about  the ESN  all the time.

Andruss, Tarja Civie section..>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

 Dusk snickered a bit as they sat, about 10 minutes  after Arnie  drought the bowl over , she  finished her  drink...It is time to go. Granmod  will be  quite frustrated, because she knows....i know..she must let me spend  time  with family and special  people...

  Getting up  she  picked up her Glass and the Bowl , to drop off at the  Bar.I think you should walk  me to   the  quarters....so i do not get lost?

 Roy-Dusk offcier  country>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Roy stood up, a mischievous glitter in his eye.  "Will Lilit be waiting for you there?  In that case, it would be my honor.  I mean, what kind of Security Chief would I be, leaving the flag captain of an allied force on her own in our unfamiliar craft?"  The droll tone he used was as effective as any snicker in conveying the fact that he was joking about needing to escort her, as she was definitely familiar with that section of the Hermes, if not the whole ship's layout.

But another chance to irritate Lilit was not to be passed over, especially when he could turn her own favorite harping note on Shadow--that he took his responsibilities lightly--against her by underscoring that he was doing his duty.

To Officers Quarters

”hmm perhaps…though I have always seen us as being in space between tank and infantry” Tarja replied as she got up to follow Andruss off of the observation dec, frowning at the suggestion that they leave the glasses ”don’t be mean, just because she is being the bitch doesn’t give you excuse” she said picking up the glasses and dropping them off at the bar as they went, not that it would stop her from punching her in the throat if she was dumb enough to slag them off to her face.

——> Civie section

<<<<<From the Officers' Quarters

Billie stepped onto the OB Dec as she was pulling her wet hair back into a ponytail, green eyes turned purple looking about for Arnie. Her gaze paused at the view the large windows offered, a sigh escaping her lips.

    Arnie  was  working, it wasn't  too busy.  People were  gearing down now and settling back into   work and  duty.

  being the lead  ship, the  Delta #2  ships were  on their starboard,, Delta #3  on their left. Arnie carried  some glasses back to the bar. Slavic  was  setting  mugs down by a  pair on the far staboard tables.

----->>>>> From Med Tech

 NA-CE walked onto the Observation Dec and looked around, it was nice and quaint, she went to the glass to take a look out at the black to see if she could recognize where they were and where they were going.

 Slavic  Greeted NA-CE, as she saw  Billie  sit at the   portside  bar  where Arnie stood,

 The nivarian saidI do not know,  where we are going..That  yellow-Green  dot, is Zolth..that would mean Astra  is there  some where,

That eaves  the   'moons' ahead.. and past them, the  boarders of Skith and Qarl

 NA-CE smiled at the Nivarian and then replied," Ah yeah this is my home sector we are heading towards the Blue Moon, I haven't seen home in a few years, I wonder if we are going to stop at the Moons, I wonder what the Admiral has planned, there are not to many targets past the moons."

 NA-CE then went to the bar and said," Do you have any Blue Angel drinks you can make, and may I ask how I Nivarian gets posted as a bar tender on the 'Tip' of the Spear?"

  Slavic  made a disdainful frown,I came here  after  the Last  bartender was killed  during  a Battle . a Parasite  shuttle  broke though and she was killed helping fight the  creshains and largrans.

 I am not totaly  happy here. I am one the flagship that battered my home world, and ...yes... i am not the Only Nivarian here, but the others like it. I see many of the faces  of those  I thought of as enemies. But i realize  the real enemy was the Empire.

 NA-CE also had a look of disdain and replied in he Angel cold manner," Well honestly your race has been known for great treachery, to Captain Si, and recently on Bura I heard. Yes the Empire is the Enemy not the APF. It does seem some Nivarians think differently, I dont think Nivarians can be trusted." NA-Ce was cold and showed no facial expressions.

  Slavic   frowned  harder, The  Fleet   was ready to destroy our  whole planest, for trhe   small reason of  our  connections to the Empire!, the attack on the  Board was  well Justified , because  , once we  would be APF, it would be no differant then being with the Empire.

 She snorted,So? Captain Si lost a child? how many Nivarian children  dies in the shellign of my Homewordl  The Humans  would not  even be in The Balck, had not your  people raised them much faster.. They would still be worshipping us, and  llokign to us  in other forms of Myth.. Now...now they believe that   are greater then thier lot!, Humans  are nothignmore the Tall Gava, with  weapons.

 NA-CE laughed and replied," Justifying treachery now that is a true Nivarian, you were lucky The Admiral didnt wipe out your whole race. If you think being part of the APF is the same as part of the Empire, just look at Roussa, they were attacked and where was the Empire to protect them. That is the true difference Nivarian, the APF protects it's members as the Empire uses theirs as cannon fodder. Think about that for minute, if your race embraces the APF like the Angel Moons you would be much better off. Now could I have a drink now or are you just here to defend a treacherous and deceiving race that doesnt understand change." NA-CE still had that Angel cold stare she has perfected over the last 315 years.

  Slavic picked some empties off the rail ,I will return... she walked to the starboard side of the Dec, that was  short a bartender, to get  NA-CE's drink
 several people approached her and she made drinks for them first, before  returning  abut  8 Minutes later   with a green-Blue drink with  ice  and some Bura Berries in.

 This is  one of your people's 'paradsie Plains' i had to use Bura  berries instead of the  Vista  Berries from yur  homeworld.

 NA-CE wasnt stupid she watched Slavic closely as she made her drink, she wondered if she would try to poison her, but she only told the truth to Slavic, she hoped she would listen because adding a full partnered Navarian race would only strengthen the APF, but their constant treachery made that a hard possibility unless there was change in Navaria and if NA-CE could convince Slavic maybe she would talk to her friends on Navaria, NA-CE had lofty expiations but she had to try. One thing she did have respect for Slavic's convictions and loyalty to her race that meant she was redeemable.

 NA-CE smiled at Slavic and said," Thank you Slavic, and I hope you think about what I said, I really think having loyal Navarians by our side will greatly help the APF." NA-CE hoping Slavic didnt poison her took a leap of faith and took a sip of the drink to see how it was.

  QA  NA-CE  took a sip from her drink, she would  remember t t the taste, save for it being a bit sweeter because of the  Bura Berries,

 Slavic snorted,There are a few  Nivarians  on board who are 'loyal'. I can still hate  The Hermes and  still fight the Empire.

Billie moved to the bar where Arnie was, a smile on her lips as she took a seat. "Hey...how are things?" She asked as she leaned a bit on the bar with her elbows. The excitement at seeing him was clearly seen in her gaze.

 NA-CE's  COM went off...Corpral, we have a possible  OD  on the Officers  dec..see   SGT Max and Corporal  Stiffy

....................

well? its starting to slow  down, Captain Si's message got every one  out of the mood , i suppose. Arnie smiled.

he  slid her  a blur and yelow swiling  Galss, as he took a soda.

 NA-CE was about to respond to Slavic when her comms went off with a medical emergency, NA-CE looked at Slavic," I will be back medical emergency."  NA-CE then ran as fast as she could to the Officer's Dec not wasting anytime she was glad she had her medical kit on her.

-----To Officer's Dec

 Arnie tookmabout   30 minutes to sit with   Billie and talkm they each had a  drink, as he  Nodded to a bright  dot , about the size of a mmarble  onthier starboard side...

 That's Astra..... that means Zolth  is  on the port side, we are sailing  right between the  Gap... The Blue and red Moons of Paradise...which is sort of a misnomer...they are small planets  held in  orbit by the  same sub as Zolth... but  the Angels claimed it   while our people  we hitting  furry elephants with clubs.

 when they finished their Chat, he  had to go back to work as Slavic's watch was done and more folks   came on Dec.

Tomorrow , the same  view  would be much different.

>>>>>>>>>>>>> next day

------>>>  From Hanger Dec

After entering onto the deck, Alison gazed on the part of the blue-green world that was visible, haloed and bejeweled by a celestial-seeming array of lights.   Not that there was anything benevolent about them, illumination from the foe’s fighter fleet all that they were.

"Beautiful from here, isn't it?" she said to Justin.   "It actually looks like paradise."   She paused, further taking in the sight.

"Sadly, one thing you learn pretty quick as a psychologist, is that the face of things is often not the reality."   

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 92):

Justin nodded then gave a chuckle I agree the face of things isn't the reality especially if its a mug like mine.

She smiled, winked, "Oh, are you saying the inside is better or worse, then? 

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 94):

Justin chuckled as he held a chair for Alison to be seated. When she did Justin gave her cheek a peck You're far too quick.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:09, Tue 14 Mar 2023.

She smiled again, and took the offered chair.  "So.  What we can talk about, that's a happier subject than the next coming battle? Ah. How about music?  We've never talked about that.  Do you have anything you really like to listen to?" 

I'm not set on any particular classification.  I listen to some old stuff like the Cors, Chantoozies, Palmer, Yancovic, Vavaldi, Straus, Remic, Sherbert, Miles, Flock of, Metal as, to name a few. Any you have a specific liking of?
This message was last edited by the player at 22:33, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

"You like to listen to some classical, do you?  Me too. Vivaldi, sure, the Four Seasons is wonderful. So many good ones...and not all of them men.  Ever hear of Hildegard of Bingen?  Besides being a composer, she was an abbess, a polymath, a historian, and something of a visionary mystic.   A piece she wrote called O Virtus Sapientiae is a favorite."   

"For pop and rock, a lot of things from the 60s and 70s.  The Beatles and the Doors, Jefferson Airplane, Joni Mitchell, Hendrix.  And then the next decade, Elton John, Patti Smith, Fleetwood Mac, Blondie, ELO, the Cars, Talking Heads.   Not to say there isn't good stuff later, too.  I could go on, and on.."   

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 98):

Some of the Abbott's hyms are pleasant a few I think are borderline. I also like many of your favoured composers. What do you think of INXS, Crowded House and Rose Tattoo, I enjoy some of their compositions. I'm not into any of John's stuff; a legacy of my Junior High days, two of the students kept ranting on about him and tainted his products.

This message was last edited by the player at 14:43, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

---->>>>> From Hanger Dec

 Lizzy and Izzy walked onto the OB dec, she went to whoever was tending bar, " Something fruity non-alcoholic please might be going back out soon." Lizzy smiled at Izzy and said," Where would you like to sit Izzy?"

"I like the name, but I don't think I've heard of Rose Tattoo?" She nodded, "I do like INXS and Crowded House, they're both good.   So what was junior high like?  Did you party up?  Or were you dedicated to studying?" 

She waved briefly to Lizzy, as she entered.

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 101):

Glancing up Justin's jaw clenched
This message was last edited by the player at 04:09, Tue 14 Mar 2023.

She noted the reaction with the faint arching of a brow, not sure what that was about.

>High school was more or less a mix of study and pushing the boundaries he quietly replied.

"Really?  Tell me about pushing boundaries.   In what ways did you like to do that?"   

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 103):

Noticing Alison's raised eyebrow. Can you do that with your other brow?
This message was last edited by the player at 19:54, Mon 13 Mar 2023.

——> Hangar Dec

Izzy would quietly follow Lizzy up to the observation dec, her temper still fizzing away just under the surface, and approach the bar with her gesturing that she would have the same as Lizzy, muttering ”LA” in response to the question of where she wanted to sit.

Taking the glass that was placed in front of her Izzy would head to a table that would offer a view through the partially open window and sit down.

 Arnie    snorted  at  Izzy's retort.well, Ma'am... if you  heat   off at 3:00..and travel that  way for 100 light years or  so, you might just get there.. best to use a  Pulse drive though,  it would only take you a few days.

  then he adds  as she  starts to walk away,you might no like what you see is left, when you get there.

  Lizzy waved at Alison and noticed Justin's reaction to her, she had no clue why he didnt like her and he had given her some rude looks over her time on board. His loss not hers, whatever it was it had to be trivial.

 Lizzy smiled at Arnie," Thank you for the drinks, and yeah Izzy lets sit by the partially opened doors, and honestly I am a Boston girl but didnt really spend much time on Earth." Lizzy got scanned for the drinks and smiled at Arnie.

 Lizzy tried to calm Izzy down, she saw how she was still fuming and when they took their seats she quietly said," We were in the wrong Rivets is very particular about his Hanger Dec and what happened with Captain Morris I dont remember you saying anything about that."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Tue 14 Mar 2023.

"Well I don't know, maybe," she answered, still wondering, but deciding not to bring it up here,  "What's in it for me if I can?"

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 108):

Justin grinned

”I did…and I kind of liked it there” Izzy quietly replied, though it was unclear whether she was referring to LA or Earth in general. Taking a seat she would listen as Lizzy spoke with her just about managing a ”maybe” before lapsing back into a frosty silence. At the mention of Captain Morris there would be a frustrated sigh before she quietly replied ”from what I remember I said something I regretted whilst mad and later apologised to him but like everything on this damn ship it’s been blown out of proportion” she said with her unable to recall what exactly had happened but knowing that it didn’t warrant the level of attention it was getting.

 Frans  , Eckles  and  Mara  entered the OB  Dec, they veered away from  Slavic's side  and went to Arnie.

 they got  non-achololic drinks, of  course and  some Pizza  rolls. hey  sat  behind the 'theater seating '  and  stared at the planet that they  know was   going to be the final destination.

 Lizzy smiled at Izzy and relied," Ok as long as you are good with Captain Morris we should be fine." Lizzy then said," Be right back I need to speak to Alison for a second."

 Lizzy gave Izzy a kiss on the cheek and headed over to Alison, still wondering why Lt. Case gave her such a look," Doctor Verault, I just want to say I did the Sims no problem and I had no problem during the jump off as well. Thank you very much again." Lizzy then gave Alison a hug and then checked out her amazing figure as she waited for Alison's response.

"It's a secret, I'll text it to you later," she told Justin with a wink, before arching the other brow to prove she could do it.   And then glancing over at Lizzy.

Alison returned the hug, patting her on the back. "That's awesome!  Congratulations, Lizzy!  I had a feeling you'd be okay. But I'm glad to hear, and know for sure."

" Thank you so much Doc, next time I see you on the Rec Dec I will buy you drink." Lizzy smiled at Alison as she turned to head back she checked out Alison's amazing sexy body again and just gave Lt. Kase a cold hard combat mode stare, she had no idea why he didnt like her but she didnt care it was his loss not getting to know Lizzy's awesomeness.

 Lizzy walked away and headed back over to Izzy, sat down and watched out the glass.

Absently Justin looked at his hands as he deliberated, before glancing at Alison.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:12, Wed 15 Mar 2023.

Billie headed over to where Arnie was, giving him a kiss on the cheek and taking whatever drink he decided to give her and ordering some pizza rolls. She rather enjoyed the surprise of whatever drink he made for her. “How are things?” she asked him as she took her usual seat, glancing around to everyone that was already there.

There was a bit of an absent wave as Lizzy got up to speak with Alison with her not feeling particularly sociable in her current mood. Sipping her drink she would watch the ships and stars through the gap in the blast doors as Lizzy spoke to Alison, a hurt expression appearing on her face as she openly flirted with the other woman. Reaching up she would touch the scars on her face knowing that there was no way that she would be able to compete.

 Lizzy smiled at Izzy, gave her a kiss on the cheek, and said," Are you ok Izzy are you upset about something?" Lizzy was still looking out into the black so beautiful and so deadly. Lizzy held Izzy's hand as she looked out and added," Any progress on your drone idea I really think you could make a difference for the ground troops with that."

”you were flirting with her, I saw you” Izzy quietly spoke, uncertain if she was hurt by Lizzy flirting with another woman or because she’d done so right in front of her like she didn’t matter. The fact that her emotions were still a bubbling mess of rage and depression from earlier not exactly helping matters.

At the mention of the drone program she would give a halfhearted shrug ”maybe…I haven’t had much chance to work on it” she replied, not exactly feeling in the mood at this point in time.

 Lizzy looked at Izzy and said," I wasnt flirting I was just checking her out, big difference and Izzy that was just admiration, I love you and would never cheat on you ever. I am sorry I didnt mean to upset you." Lizzy didnt mean to upset Izzy maybe she should calm that down around Izzy, she seemed very emotional right now, wow Lizzy calling someone else too emotional that was a big spin around for sure.

 Lizzy smiled and replied," Don't get defensive I was just asking, hey we were in the wrong on the hanger dec, lets just get past this and move forward."

 Arnie gave  Billie a  enta  mix  drink, with no intoxicants .  'an Etna side).. ice inside    some berry juice from  Uden with  berries  that would  slide   down the   ice cubes  as they were dropped in.

 Ponting to the   small ( for tis size)  windows...Its tense? That planet there, was where   they took  some of the smartest and  biggest leaders of human kind, before  sending them back to earth..and now..we are going to pound the 9 hells out of it... its hard to wrap your head around that.

...........

 Frans  and her friends walked  past Lizzy and Izzy, Frans   smiled a bit,and said in a comic  fashion.I want to lay the  law  down> but seeing how Rivets was right there.. I'l just say this. Time and place  right?  Time and place  And thinking about  your shipmates  who may have lost someone? This is one of the times you would have been better of , the LC caught you. he would have  hustled you two on your way, But a grieving etch shouts something out, and Rivets hears it..well... you were there..right? Unwind, but get ready.... The Admiral is waiting for something. And when it happens,  we go out again.

 they moved on towards the   bottom  row  of the seats  to look out..Mara  was pointing out the 'dashes' that were the Angel Cap ships.

"That sounds great, we'll see you later, then," Alison said before Lizzie departed.

Alison then regarded Justin, after Lizzy was gone, "Okay, you don't like her.  For some reason? And she's picked up on it, and is annoyed. Wouldn't you be, if things were the other way around?  You'll have to explain to me what the problem is, one day."

"As to the other, one thing being a psychologist teaches you is that people express themselves in different ways.  Some use a lot of emotion, and some hardly any.  Some like physical contact, and others don't.   Doing sessions with a diverse group of people has taught me to adjust to different communication styles.    I don't think any are right or wrong, just different."

"And you have more in common with her, than you might think.  You both had hardship early in life, and both overcame it.  And you're both brave, and have strong hearts."

Justin gave a shrug; It's a pity our short pleasant interlude has been spoilt.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:32, Thu 16 Mar 2023.

It would be clear to Lizzy, with her having spent the most time with Izzy, that she wasn’t her usual cheery self and was perhaps just a little oversensitive right now ”I-I know…I’m sorry…I guess I’m just scared you’ll find something better” she quietly said in a forlorn voice, her fingers still absently tracing the scarring on her cheek. With the arrival of Frans she would leave it up to Lizzy’s to speak with her, with Izzy seemingly lost in thought as she looked out the window.

 Lizzy looked somber at Frans." Yes Lt. we got a little carried away Izzy isnt sure I will return everytime we jump off, you are right time and place it WILL NOT happen again Lt. Yes Lt. I will be ready when called on you can count on that, I am in it to win it Ma'am."

 Lizzy looked at Izzy and said, with caring loving eyes and heart," Izzy I love you, will I look yeah, but I wont find anything better. There is more than looks but you are beautiful Izzy. I am sorry to pry on the drones but I think finding a project or a way to join this wa will help you so much Izzy, ok there is only one way I will leave you and we wont talk about that before another jump off."

 Lizzy took her glass and help it up," To Us!!!"

"Nonsense!  Everyone came back alive from the conflict, and now we get to enjoy some good chow, with a view of a world that's beautiful at a distance, at least.   I'd say life is good."

Absently Justin gave his chin a rub Humm.. he voiced as Ships screens lit up to deliver Admiral Hacks announcement.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:44, Fri 17 Mar 2023.

She would perk up a little at Lizzy’s words, with her seemingly deciding that she was perhaps overreacting, and was seeing the worst in everything. At the mention of the drone project and Lizzy’s belief that it would do her good, she would look would look less certain ”hmm maybe” she quietly replied, unconvinced that it would be the making of her though she would continue it if only to keep Lizzy, and to a lesser extent Roy, happy.

With Lizzy raising her glass in a toast to them, Izzy would shyly raise her own glass of soda ”To us”

In reply to Justin Kase (msg # 127):

Alison sighed after the announcement concluded, amending: "Well, good until it begins all over again.  Human beings dreamed for centuries about reaching paradise.  Who imagined that one day we'd storm it?"   

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 129):

Indeed, those who be able to will. In light of the announcement the necessity of Duty has intervened. Rising Justin assisted Alison to accompany him form the OC.

"Izzy I am sorry remember I love you, now we have three hours we ate I need some rest lets go relax for a bit ok my love."  Lizzy smiled kissed Izzy on her bad cheek making like it didt matter. Lizzy got up took Izzy's hand," Shall we my love."

---->>>>> To Officer Quarters

”I know…and I love you too, besides it’s not your fault this place just gets to me is all” Izzy replied in quiet voice, her free hand moving to indicate the ship as she spoke. As Lizzy got up to leave, Izzy would finish the last mouthful of her drink before getting up and taking her hand, agreeing that rest sounded like a good idea.

——> Officers Quarters

In reply to Justin Kase (msg # 130):

------->>>> Where ever it is we're going to.

In reply to Dr. Alison Verault (msg # 133):


Leaving the OD Justin glanced at the display showing time to next Jump-off.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:53, Mon 20 Mar 2023.

With a nod, Billie took a sip of the drink he had passed to her. “I can see that…” she murmured, plucking a pizza roll from the plate when it was delivered and popping it into her mouth after ensuring that it wasn’t too hot. When the announcement came on, Billie felt herself frowning and sighed when it went away. She slowly licked her lips, admittedly feeling those little butterflies in the pit of her stomach…

From Officer Country.



When the doors opened to the Obs Dec, Madison just took one step inside to look around. She had never been there before, but it was everything she imagined it would be. It was huge with an unobstructed view of space through the thick glass windows. It was like some giant lounge with the best view in the galaxy, wherever you were in the galaxy. It had a bar, and a snack station. Both looked closed, but the array of cushioned seating was all that was needed.

"Wow." She stood in place still looking over. "This is awesome. I wish I had found my way here sooner. Shall we?" Going to the right, she walked along the perimeter by the windows, looking off into the black. Other than than an occasional streak of light probably belonging to a patrol, there was nothing but stars. "It's so beautiful." She rounded the room all the way back to the doors. "I think I want to try out those chairs." A few steps later, she dropped into a big cushy chair, laid back and closed her eyes. "This might be my new favorite place."

Ra'Na'Ta' just stood there looking for a moment then stepped out. He felt overwhelmed. He had always felt this way when he was flying. It washed over him and filled his senses. It was pure amazement and beauty. A loud pleased purr escaped his mouth.

"This one is overwhelmed and over joyed to be in such beauty." He looked to the space and than at her. "This one always feels closerrr to the Moon when in something like this. This one could stay like this foreverrr. The mystery, the majestic feeling, the powerrrr, and the beauty of it all fills This one with so much." Ra'Na'Ta' said as he looked at the vast space a constant purr escaping his lips, as he found a large couch like chair and curled up in it.

"When I''m in the cockpit, it's different. I mean, I'm not just looking at space. I'm actually in space, flying around. But somehow it's different. I mean even when there are not enemy fighters trying to kill me. Out there I have to be alert and in control. In here, it's so relaxing."

"Tell me about the place you come from. What's it like on your world. It sounds like family and heritage is very important."

Ra'Na'Ta' nodded in agreement. "This one agrees with you. You have to be alert, but it is like being held in the arrrms of yourrr Fado. It wrrraps you up and is all arrround you, but if you arrre not carrreful you can pay a prrrice. It still fills This one with wonder though."

Ra'Na'Ta' thought for a moment as he looked into space. "It has jungles, plains, mountains, forrrests, and a deserrrt. The temperrraturres arrre mostly warrrm, but get colderr in the mountains. This one comes frrrom the Temnurrr forrest. This ones village is called Khanua. The rrriver Wharrruta rrruns close to This ones village. It has good fishing and swimming holes in it, but one must watch out forrr the Crrraduwas. They arrre larrrge scaled lizarrrds, but arrre very good eating too, if they do not eat you firrst. This one lives under the watchful eyes of Messuerrra and Secunda. Messuerrra is a larrrge deep rrred moon and Secunda is a smallerrr white moon. Some say Messuerrra is the male, while Secunda is the female, but that is only one storrry.

The prrride orrr family as you call it is verrry imporrrtant to This one. All close arrre we and rrrespectful to our Elderrrs, as well as the knowledge that they hold. Music, dancing, and fighting is all parrrt of This one's life. This one does not just take a life forrr the sporrrt of it though. All life is important, but when one must defend, then This one will not think twice to taking a life."

Madison settled into the cushion of the chair. In that moment, with the view and the ambiance, it was more comfortable than her bed. Ra'Na'Ta's description, played in her head as his R's rolled with the trill of his purring. If it was like the purr of cats on Earth, it meant he was relaxed and enjoying the moment.

"It sounds a lot like Earth. You know, the different environments. It's always colder on the mountaintops than in the valleys, but it's just a different kind of beauty." She closed her eyes as the sound of his purr relaxed her. "And even your culture. We respect our elders, and honor our heritage. How much depends on which culture. In some places, it's everything. In some places it does get a little lost. I lived on a ranch. My village was just my home and tribe was just my grandparents. But we had good hunting and fishing there too. We have music, dancing... and fighting, though that's not my favorite thing."

"A couple other differences though. Humans might be a bit more cavalier about killing. There wasn't much that wanted to eat us. I guess there were brown and black bears. And mountain lions. They sometimes attacked people to eat them, but not usually. Those lizard things sound really scary. I'm not sure what I would do if I had to live in a place where I was the prey. And we only have one moon. It never looked out for anyone. In fact, some people think it makes people crazy."

"I want to see this Temnurrrr Forrrest." She tried to roll her R's as well, but smiled at the clumsiness of her own tongue. "I want to see a lot of place. I guess I'm going to get to see Paradise soon. It won't be at its best, but I'll get to see it. One day, I want to go see Hel also. Do you enjoy traveling the galaxy?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:10, Tue 18 Apr 2023.

Med Tech ----->>>>

Sorry folks; this is way too interesting not to join.   I'll keep it low key, to start with. Not trying to intrude.

On a something of a lark, Alison decided to visit the Obs Dec.  One of her new favorite places to collect or stimulate her thoughts.    On entering the Dec, she saw Madison Rae.  Who really she'd never spoken with again, since that day she'd been wrangling with a serious hangover.

And the felinoid pilot was no one she'd met, although she did know who he was.   Given her position on the ship, new crew members and their profiles were fed to her for review, as well as for general familiarity.

She entered as Madison was speaking about her home, plainly in a way that would inform someone who hadn't been there.   She approached, waved slightly in greeting to both, "Do you mind if I join? This sounds like the sort of thing I enjoy listening to."   
This message was last edited by the player at 20:37, Mon 17 Apr 2023.

Ra'Na'Ta' heard the footfall and smelled the new comer. He looked her direction before she made herself know. He made no aggressive movement just watched her and Madison to see her reaction. He wrinkled his nose. "This one does not know you, but you arrre like what This one has been told to expect frrrom the hairrrless ones. This one does not mind as long as Madi'son  does not."

Ra'Na'Ta' looked at Madison and began to answer her. "Yourrr Earrrth has many warrrs overrr stupid things. Do not get This one wrrrong we have had a warrr overrr something stupid too. What This one was told is grrreed rrruns yourrr Earrrth morrre than common sense, but that is just what we have been told. We have animals we rrride as well. They arrre like yourrr horse, but they have a tough leatherrry skin. This one will someday show you This one's village."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:10, Tue 18 Apr 2023.

In the silence that followed her question, Madison thought that Ra'Na'Ta' was formulating a thoughtful answer. But the next words were surprising. Actually, it wasn't the words that popped her eyes open, it was the voice.

Lifting her head, Madison turned to see what body was connected to the purrless and decidedly not male timbre. It was Dr.Verault, striding in with a request to join in the chill.

"Hello Doctor." Madison sang pleasantly. "Sure thing. Claim a cushion."

Closing her eyes again, Madison took in Ra'Na'Ta's rendition of Earth's population and politics. It was strange hearing how the only features of her home planet that resonated in the black were the corruption and violence. In fact it was actually offensive. Was there greed? Hells yeah. Stupid wars? You betcha. But if those were Earth's defining qualities, then how was it that so many Earthers were out defending the galaxy against Angels and Demons. Greed was the most overused accusation by those who don't have the ambition to go work for what they want. And what wars weren't stupid? The only way to prevent war was to accept conquest. This is what brought the ESN to the halls of Paradise.

But Ra'Na'Ta's perceptions were not his fault. As he said, it was just what he was told.

"I'm happy to tell you, Ra'Na'Ta', that everything you heard about Earth is wrong. That doesn't mean that there is no greed or war, but those things are just part of the fabric of a complex mix of histories and cultures. If I were to tale you to my home in Wyoming, you would see friendly people, full of grace and hospitality. These are the people that would take you in if you were lost and feed you if you were hungry and ask nothing in return. The vast majority of the world is like that. People who assert otherwise either have an agenda, or make the mistake of assuming bad people from Earth represent Earth."

"Let's make a deal. You show me yours, and I'll show you mine."

Ra'Na'Ta' could sense a slight change in her for a moment, but then it went back to how he sensed her earlier. He gave a throaty laugh and looked at her. "This one did not think that Madi'son was such a forrrward one. This one is guessing that you have neverrr seen a male Felrrrite, which is why you asked This one show his to you? This one is not modest."

Ra'Na'Ta' slowly stretched and began to undo his flight suit.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:32, Tue 18 Apr 2023.

Oh Shit. That was all Madison could think after Ra'Na'Ta' took her last statement way more literally than she intended. Of all the Earth idioms the Felrite could have understood, it had to be that one. Maybe they had a similar saying on Zolth. When she heard him undoing his flight gear, she jumped up and held out both hands.

"No no no no no." She prayed he would stop quickly, because - curiosity aside - she had no intention of showing him hers. "I made a mistake. That was not what I meant. Please. I was just talking about home towns." She glanced over to Dr.Verault for help.  "Ra'Na'Ta', please."

She knew this was going to be a super funny story one day. Maybe even within the same day. But if he didn't stop, it would be a very awkward moment.

Ra'Na'Ta' had just slipped his arms out when she explained. He once again gave a throaty laugh. "This on underrstands. This one's culturrre is built arrround not being in clothing. It is rrrestrrraining. It took This one a long time to get use to wearrring the flight suit. This one is not ashamed of his body, but ppprrroud of it. This one will stop. This one will be happy to see yourr village and to show his." He gave her a huge toothy green and laughed.

Alison had reclined in one of the chairs listening once again.  She managed to cover a soft laugh, once he began to remove his suit, at what he imagined was Madison's prompting.

She'd studied a number of alien cultures, but Felrite was wholly foreign to her.  And not at all what she might have expected.  She was curious now, and planned to do a little study, later.  Based on what she's heard so far, he struck her as an odd fit for the ESN, serving aboard a military vessel.

"She's right," she chimed in, "About the vast majority of Earth.  As I think you'll find out interacting with the Earthers aboard the Hermes.  What motivated you to enlist, if I might ask?  Given what you'd heard about Earth, and your sentiments about war?"

  Arnie was takign to   Billie  at the  abr on the  port side. Slavic, the Nivarian  was at the   bar on the starbaord, she was cleaning up glasses and plates, she  stopped to ask the three if they needed  a drink, or  snack  food.

With both hands pressing her heart back into her chest, Madison tossed her eyes up to the heavens. "Thank Gods." After a few more dramatic deep breaths, she fell back into her seat. It was funny. It was actually hilarious. But she wasn't ready to laugh just yet.

When Slavic asked if they needed anything, Madison considered a hard drink. The jump off was six hours away, more than enough time get past any alcoholic influence, but that was something for the victory party. "Yes, thank you. I'll have a cola, please."

Since Ra'Na'Ta' brought it up. "Please don't take your suit off, I'm just asking. Is your whole body covered in fur?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:36, Tue 18 Apr 2023.

Ra'Na'Ta' looked at the other woman when asked why. "This one did such a thing because the Elderrrs said it must be done. Elderrrs see, in drream the Skith laying waste to all planets, if not stopped. This one had to join in the tourrrneyment to see who goes and no One could best This one." He slapped his paw against his broad well muscled chest, then went on. "Just because This one and his people dislike warrr does not mean we will not fight forrr what we think should be fought forrr."

When asked if he wished something to drink he said."This one wonderrrrs, if you would have sweet milk?"

"Yes, Madi'son, This one is covered in hair. He turned around gracefully so she could see his back and his tail swishing playfully, then turned back to her with a toothy smile. "Are you sure you would not like to see This one?" He winked at her and laughed knowing he was teasing her, but was enjoying it. He stood there looking at her and found he was surprised at himself, for enjoying her company, as much as he was.

"Thanks Ranata." Madison winked back. She would have to watch 'this one'. He was a rascal. That wasn't a bad thing but she got up to enough mischief by herself. "I'll just take your word for it."

"So, tell me about that contest to join the ESN. It sounds interesting"

"Virgin mojito, please," she requested from Slavic.  After this, she had the mother mountain of admin work to get back to.   Anything other than a virgin wasn't going to fly.

For her part, she did know Felrites were fully furred, like the majority of felines and felinoid species.  So the situation, as well as Madison's reaction to it, was humorous rather than alarming.

"Ah...so your stance on war isn't really different from most of ours." She too waited to hear the tale about the tournament.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:05, Tue 18 Apr 2023.

Ra'Na'Ta' looked at the one called Dr. "This one would not know since he has neverrr spoke with yourrr people beforrre now. This one can only go by what the Elderrrs told him.

Ra'Na'Ta then turned his attentions back top Madison. "The tourrrneyment is fourrr moons long and arrre fought underrr the moons. The Rrrakiit firrrst fight in a arrrena, with all fighting hand to hand and claw to claw. When six arrre left, then the fight stoppps till the next moon.  Theirrr wounds tended to and then prrreppparrre forrr the weapppon battle.

The Rrrakiit arrre allowed to use any weapppon of theirrr choosing except firrrrearms. When therrre arre fourrr left they again wait till the next moons. These battles arrre not to the death. If you can not stop a death blow you do not deserrrve to be in the tourrrneyment.  Their wounds arrre tended to and they ppprrreppparrre forrr the rrranged and hand gun battle.

Theses arrre at tarrgets to show your accurrracy with the differrrent weapppons. When that battles is done and two arrre left the last battle is in the black in yourrr shippp.

It is judged on spppeed, handling, accuracy, strategy, following orrrders, and finally a mock battle. So, as you see This one is standing herrre with you, since none could defeat This one. " He slapped his paw again to his chest and looked proudly at the two woman.

Alison glanced over at Maddie, smiled. "My god.  So this is a legit celebrity, here?  I think we should get some cocktail napkins autographed, don't you?" she suggested, tongue in cheek.     Then to Ranata:

"Truly, that is quite a feat to be proud of.  Other than being the who got to come here, were there any other awards for such a thing?"   

Ra'Na'Ta' looked at the woman uncertain just how to take that comment his tail whipping around madly. "This one is not surrre if you arrre mocking This one orrr not, but this is a grrreat honorrr among my pppeopple. This one also does not know what you mean by other awarrrds." He stood there looking at her his eyes very intense as they bore into her.

"What she means is if there was any other honor aside from coming to fight with us. So like a special title, or a medal, or house on a mountain." Madison noted how seriously he took it. "So, mo mockery. Just winning is an award all it's own." She waited for an answer but only a few seconds later, another question popped into her head.

"So, are you the only from Zolth here? I mean, if you have this single elimination tournament, it kind of means that only one of you get to come fight? So, is this tournament held by region or town? Or is it like every few cycles? You can't be the only Felrite in the black."

   Slavic came over  with their drinks...there is a  sqad of  Felrite  tropers, and there was a full flight of  felrites. but  the LC  said  ,Zolth was keeping thier  fighters and Pilots.. so..our Cats   have to fly the   Skeeters , when they lose  the   Hunters  that are left

Ra'Na'Ta' took a deep breath nodding in understanding and bowed to her. "This one is sorry forrr thinking wrrrongly. Ppplease forrrgive This one. No, therrre is no otherrr awarrrd. That one is correct. Each village sent a warrriorr to the tourrrneyment."

Madison still wasn't clear on the logistics. If Slavic was right, there were other Felrites in service to the ESN. If they were holding back their fighters, that meant that they had their own fighters, which implies that they have the technology and industry to produce them which also implies cities and a huge population. So something wasn't squaring with with Ra'Na'Ta's inter-tribal competition. Of course, like Earth there was probably a global population, and some of that population probably did live in villages.

"Tell me about the cities on Zolth." Maybe if she understood the planet better... "Are the Felrites the only intelligent species there?"

Ra'Na'Ta' took a deep breath. "This one's ppplanet is not backwarrrds. Therrre arrre larrrge cities. Yourrr pppeoppple have a base at one. Therrre arrre many larrrge and small cities. Therrre arre villages as well wherrre pppeoppple live the old ways. This one comes frrrom one of them. This one also has been to a city. It is not a ppplace This one would stay in.

This one went to the centerrr to be trrrained to fly, then left to be home wherrre This one belonged. This one enterrred the tourrrneyment, because the Elderrr seen it that way. This one is surrre that yourrr ppplanet is the same."

When Renata had given her 'the look,' Alison hadn't flinched.  Her lieutenant's bar was plain on her uniform, to anyone familiar with basic rankings. Which any new recruit should be.

She realized, of course, that Ranata was dealing with cultural and other elements foreign to him, even though he said humanity maintained a base on his home world.  Most of the alien people she met prepared in advance, studying at least the basics of the culture they would be living among.  Plainly, nothing like that had been done.  He would need to come up to speed relatively quick, however, or he was likely in for a slew of misunderstandings.

"Speaking of 'trained to fly'...Madison, what sparked your interest in becoming a pilot?  When did that become the career choice?"

"I wasn't suggesting your people were backward. Not at all. I'm just curious about your world. It sounds though like it's a lot like Earth. I like visiting cities, but I don't want to live in one."

The doctor's question offered a chance to expand on that. "So, I come from a small town also. Honestly every town in Wyoming is small. I lived on a ranch that spanned across two counties and my nearest neighbor was sixteen miles away. The nearest town town was sixty miles away. We had a small apartment there in case we needed more than a few hours to do anything."

"But to your question, Doctor. I grew up with horses. I love to ride, but I think what I really love is the rush of moving. My sweet sixteen present was a muscle car. That thing was so fast, and the acceleration..." She shuddered. "Such a thrill." It took a moment for her to recover. "Anyway. I knew it. I was addicted to adrenaline. Someone said it was more dopamine than adrenaline, but whatever. I needed more and I was fascinated by the sky.. night or day. I decided that I wanted to be a pilot. Talk about moving fast and being free. So after I graduated college, I signed up for the ESN. I'm not so sure it was a career choice, but it was a goal choice. Now that I'm here, I realize that this is not something you just do for a while. I'm here for the long term. Maybe the rest of my life."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Thu 20 Apr 2023.

Alison smiled. "Hm. That's quite an interesting progression.  I also love the sky, though I was always happy to observe it from the ground.  I miss the familiar constellations you see from Earth, even if I've gotten nearer to some of those stars out here.   I'm more of a city girl, but one with a strong pull to both the natural and the mythic.   Horses are certainly the first, and also have a hoof in the second, in my mind.   My uncle owned some, and I too learned to ride in my youth.   Did you have one that you really bonded with?"

"Oh yes." Madison nodded. "That's Ares. He was my one and only. I didn't name him, my grandfather did. He was born at the ranch when I was nine, and we took a shine to each other immediately. He was my horse. Fifteen hands, chestnut fur, black mane, he was gorgeous. And he is so fast. And let me tell you, he did not like it if I rode other stallions. He would tolerate it if I rode a mare, but if it was another stallion, wooweee. He'd be fit to be tied. I miss him, and I'm sure he misses me."

"What about you? Was there a special steed in your life?"

Ra'Na'ta' sat down he could sense the mild irritation from the Doctor, but ignored it and just looked at the black, then began absent mindly grooming his paws and face, as he listened.

There is the  sound  of throaty  voices as  Arnie is heard   greeting  some one..

On the   port side   of the OB, , Billie and Arnie  were greeting  LT Ariv, who was still in her  flight  suit,  her  tail  moving less  with the heavy fabric  around it. Next to her  was LT  Hirr, the Felrite Marines, she  still wore  her   Medium  Boarding  armor with tail , also Hindered by the   suit.

 Arnie    fixed them  two , Blue and Yellow  drinks,as he pointed to   Ranata and the ladies...

 Both of the Offiers   swayed their  way over, Ariv taking a sip of the  drink,Your  are Pilot  who came to us, and  flew  with Shadow  LC. Are you not ?  I am LT Ariv, Flight  leader  for  'f'  flight..This is LT  Hirr, she  is  squad leader  for Felrite Mariens,  who are Assault  teams

Ra'Na'Ta' stopped his grooming at the sound of others approaching. He stood touched a paw to forehead and bowed. "This one is honorrred to meet you both. May the moon always shine on you both and yourrr hunts. This one is that pilot. This one has not been given a flight unit yet. What can This one do forrr you?"

"Really?  Your horse had a name out of Grecian myth, too?   Mine was Nyx.  Or sometimes Stevie Nyx," she smiled, laughed faintly.

"So, like I said my uncle had horses.   Among them there was this sleek, black mare, with a spiteful gleam in her eye.   'Leave her alone,' I was advised.   'Pick any other to ride.  She doesn't like anyone.'  Right?  So, the challenge was on!  I went online that evening, and read everything I could find about how to befriend a horse.   I spent time with her whenever I could, and took it slowly at first.   Eventually, I got my way.  She still didn't like anyone else, but I became the exception. I like to think of her as my first success as a psychologist, kind of."

Alison glanced up at the approach of the officers and the marine, who was Felrite like Ranata.  Good, she thought. Another of his own kind, one who's already grooved in here, should be good for him.

To Maddie: "Anyway, Ares sounds like quite a lad!  And I've no doubt he misses you greatly."

"I'm sure Nyx was very loyal to you." Madison smiled "Horses don't like being alone. They just need to trust. I bet once you earn3d hers, she was happy for it."

The Felrites entry could hardly be ignored. They marched like they were on a mission, probably to welcome Ra'Na'Ta' and let him know he wasn't alone. He seemed ambivalent about it. Not that he was impolite, but neither did he seemed overjoyed. She wouldn't interject, but Madison liked thinking he was more than happy with the welcome she was providing.

"I feel bad about leaving him behind. " she responded to the doctor, but she kept her eyes on the Felrites.

"I'm sure that was so tough to do," she concurred. "It's hard, sometimes, when a door opens and presents a corridor we can't help but walk, but leaves others we care about in the previous room."   She noticed her gaze, and wondered if it was only Ares she had been speaking of.

 Alisons Com chimed when checked she saw it was from Justin

  Ariv   speaks  as   LT Hirr defers to her. ..We are..special  here. we had   the constancy of felrites  fed into dealt  Fleet. howeber.. leaders on Zolth slowed, to trickle, fighters  and   pilots...

 and marines.... Hirr adds.

 A nod of affirmation ,Hunter craft, are all but gone. We  will all, soon be  flying  Skeeters ..but this is good.. Humans learn  how to fly   by watching us..yes?. But.. we are now  being shuffled about, since   we are not getting many Felrites . Yiu must be good..yes?..Show  humans   we  Felrites   belong in APF...you understand?

 Hack's  announcement

Ra'Na'Ta' listened he was unsure what to say at first. "This one is good yes. This one is best of tourrrney. This one can show This one skills to all. Sadly, This one only fly once with them, but will do best to show his skill forr them to learrrn. This one show Felrrrites belong."

Ra'Na'Ta' was about to go when the announcement came thru. He looked  at Madison. "This one does not know who he flies with, but he wishes you Madi'son good hunting an May the moon shine on yourrr hunt. This one should get to Hanger dec and find LT. Shadow, to see who This one is flying with."


To Hanger Dec

In reply to Ranata (msg # 173):

When the announcement came in, Madison jumped to her feet. Ra'Na'Ta' wished her good hunting right then, but she followed along with him.

"Thank you. But we're all pilots and all going to see Shadow. So you're stuck with me until you get assigned.  ... Unless you'd rather hang with the other Felrites. But jusy so you know, no one who matters thinks you don't belong. You have nothing to prove here."

To Hangar Dec

Ra'Na'Ta' smiled to her. "This one is fine to be stuck with you. If this one is sent with Felerrrites, then This one will fly with them. This one will fly wherrrre he is needed. This one thanks you forrr saying such things." They made their way to the dec

After the other two departed, Alison responded to Justin's message:

Sure.  I'm on the Obs deck.  Do you want to join me here, or somewhere else?

Billie sat in her usual spot, sipping at a drink that Arnie had given. She never had to ask for something in particular, preferring the surprise…and he always seemed to be full of those when it came to drinks. She gave him an almost shy smile as she took another sip before looking around the room, her gaze stopping on Slavic for a brief moment. If Billie were honest with herself…she missed Beta. Beta had become the closest thing she had to a friend aside from Arnie…but Arnie was more than a friend so it didn’t count. And then there was Machins…but she more felt like a tagalong with him…like that annoying kid sister following her big bro around. Chuckling softly, she let her gaze wander to the windows and the Black, her shoulders visibly relaxing as she let that calmness wash over her.


Billie turned to Arnie when he had come over, shifting on her stool as she tucked a rogue chocolate colored strand of hair back behind her ear. Feeling a little nervous, she shifted the glass between splayed fingertips, taking a breath. How was it that she still got those butterflies? Wasn’t this supposed to get easier? “Hey Mr. Bartender,” she said in a teasing tone, a lopsided smile on her lips. “So…still want to be my date to the Ball or is it bad to assume? Should I ask you properly?” Her smile seemed to grow, taking to her eyes as she teased him, keeping her tone lighthearted.

 Arnie   settled in on the stoll near Billie. well? I don't know..I might have to wash my hair....

 Of course, i'll escort you..but  aren';t there Pilots  with all those  pretty ribbons and medals on their chest.. I only  got a few!

Slavic was  cleaning off tables  as she headed back tot he  starboard   bar to  handle customers  who might  come there.

<<<<<<<<<<<<  From Rec dec

  The doors  hissed opened, the Vista  before them , was Millions and Millions of  starts.. a  few lights that were  ships , as the  fleet moved The Black.

  Shadow  steered Maddy to the portside   bar.. Arnie was there chatting  with Billie.Hey Arnie, how about  two   Bura  berry blasts?

 Arnie looked concerned...LC?

 There was a frown...One Cola  and  one Bura Berry Blast... he looked at  Maddy...

 Maddy, You've seen Billie , she in our flight , she wings with  Machins.

 This  guy is   Arnie,  best   tender in The Black.....

 Slavic , an Nivaian  woman  , returned  some of   Arnie's  glasses she  had celaned up , setting the  container on the   bar.

 I see you lived, LC... did you get to kill any  helpless people...

 That's a trick question, Slavic?  anyone who fights  against me is Helpless?

 the Nivaian snorts  and walks off...

 she relaced Beat, who was    a great lady up here... she sorta hates me, ebcause  we beat the 9 hells out of Nivar...  turning to  Arnie,or does she  hate other Piltos?

Arnie  shook his head...no? pretty much , ust you , LC. Arnie handed the   glass to  Maddy, when yiu are ready.. yiu drop the Berry into the Glass and  o=watch

Madison stopped as soon as the doors to the Observation Dec opened. "I never get tired of that view." She took just a moment and then let Kray divert her to the port side bar. He ordered two Bura Berry Blasts. They sounded delicious, but after Arnie asked for clarification, Kray backtracked and changed his order to a cola.

"What? You're not allowed to have a drink with me?" Or maybe the cola was for her. She was pleasantly tipsy as it was.

"Yes, Billie, Hi." ... "And Arnie. Nice to meet you. it's always good to know the bartender. Especially the best one in the Black."

There was a bit of a scene with a Nivarian woman named Slavic. Madison watched, amused at the situation.

Arnie handed her the drink. The instructions were simple, but she paused. "Before I do this, Shadow, are you going to join me?"

 Arnie looked at Shadow...yeah..Arfmie...give  me one. I use the cola to thin it  aiut while we watch stars

Arnie  didn't looked  hapy, but he  Fixed the same...when you're ready, drop it in , and watch...

 Alright, Maddy... when your   ready.. say the word... he held the  frozen green berry  above his  own drink.

Madison was glad that Kray decided to join her.

"Okay, together. One... Two... Three.... NOW!" She dropped the frozen berry.

  The Berries hit the   two  liquors , one was a creamy grey, the other was milky white. The berries hit the creamy mix  and began to slowly explode. as the flaps of the berry opened  up , the   juice  flowing outwards...

Arnie points at the Glasses as he and Billie  watch.Drink i now, you want to finish it before the   gren stuff gets  all the way to the  bottom, its  sweet and smooth..

 Shadow   took a  big   gulp.. and   his  eyes  squinted a bit  as he smacked his lipsYeah?...becareful LC.. too many of these will put you on your ass..

Billie giggled. “Well I sure do appreciate you taking time out of your busy hair care routine for me. That aside, come now, you know all those shiny things aren’t the way to this girl’s heart.” She batted her lashes at him before laughing and taking a sip from her drink. Her gaze drifted over to Shadow and Madison as they approached, listening to his order and finding it a bit…off as well…until he introduced Madison. “Oh…,” she said softly to herself, connecting those dots rather quick. Listening, she shifted on her stool. “Uh…I think Slavic just hates everyone honestly…though I think she only tolerates me because I am here so much.”


“Hey Maddy. Pleasure...” she gave an awkward smile but threw Arnie a slightly concerned look as well. Well it was definitely out of the norm…or what had become the norm for her everytime she had been here and Shadow came up.

Madison watched, intrigued by the 'explosion' of the frozen berry in the layered drink. It was so interesting to watch that she was almost startled when Arnie urged them to drink it before the juices hit the bottom. Scooping up her glass, she tilted in and down the entire contents in a few gulps. When she set the glass on the bar, it was empty and she licked her lips to get the last of it.

"Oooh that was good." Of course it started hitting her almost immediately. "And strong too." She blew out a breath. "That's something you should enjoy on occasion." She giggled.

"Almost as intoxicating as a view of the stars"

   Shadow still had a good 2  fingers worth of the drink  yet, and he  just sat it  down, Arnie smiled.

    leading  Maddy to the  front   frow, nearest the port side  wall.  Siting Maddy   in the chair closest to the   wall, where a bit of the Meta Glass curved around. he sat  Next to her, Putting an arm around her shoudler...

 nevber  saw these stars   going in this  direction. Well, how do you like your frist 'escort  time'.. we'll get  the whole date thing , on the Blue  moon   

Madison settled into the chair that Kray pickedout. She smiled when he put his arm around her shoulder. "I'm still not sure I know the difference between escort and date?" She leaned her eyes in his direction. "I guess as an escort, my job is to be seen on your arm. In a date? What? You're seen on my arm? Or is it we go somewhere where no one knows either of us so we can just get to know eachother?"

  there was a bit of a chuckle...The answer is....yes?

  let me  take you through , tactical, LT.... the arm  slide  down a bit mor  to hold her shoulder  and  put  her  a teenie tad  closer..

 As   an escort.. we  are seen toegther, in some organized thing..After party..Ball.... so  we are seen together..i mean..its  not  a real big thing  lots of people  are on differant arms..but..it still , sorta   says   we areat least goign to be seen again?.... Now a Date....yes..I would   reapalot of  street cred with you on my arm, I mean.. Havignna  hot chick  always makes  the  room take notice..right?

 and  that last part? yes..that's  what we'll do.. , we'll see  what they have  in the  City we are  in and  decide  what you want to do, and we can  get to know each other.. and?  hopefully  , you won't  run away, and i have to get a new winglady. he smiled softly

Leaning in closer, Madison was more than accepting of Kray's tug. She alternated glancing at him and gazing out at the deep black as he explained the differences between escort and date.

"For the record? You can call me a hot chick all you want. I mean, I'm still stuck on 'really really pretty'. But keep at it. Eventually, you might steal my heart from Roll." She laughed with her grin.

 there is  a soft chuckle,yeah? I don't  see how  a mere Pilot  can compete with a Dashing Larg Master Recruit !  Heck? You're  a Pilot, what can i possibly show  you, that
 could  win yiu ovr!

 he    smiled   more.. easy  comfortable  smile Ok.. since i am sorta on the sugject.. we get to the moon, do the Ball thing,, do  the  condo  thing  and kill bad  guys, then come back to the Condo..Oh..by the  way..  the  morning after the  Delta knight.. i make
 scrambled  eggs   bacon  an  toast  for everyone   in My Condo.. The Admiral and captain might even sneak over as well.. Roy gets  up and  Helps Mila  and   Larry make sure  there is nothing on  the  Kitchenette flor..  The Admiral  even helps  cook sometimes as well

 anyway  , what would   Maddy like to do , on a first date, on an Angel moon?

"So let me get this straight. We're going to start with a fake date to we can kill bad guys, Then have a massive sleep over. Then after all the festivities we'll have real date?  Oh and I keep hearing about a beach party. I guess after all that? A picnic? I really have no idea. I think the most important part will be spending time alone without all the distractions."

   well?  yeah//the beach  party is  after  we  walk up after   the Ball and killing people stuff.. but hey? I think it would be neat to see you in a bathing suit..going to a god palce  to eat that has a  quiet  corner?

 llast time i was there, there  were  pretty  places to go for walks and such

She looked over to Arnie once Shadow and Maddy walked off, a brow raised. "That...was...different..." she said, still weirded out by it. For as long as she had been coming up here, Shadow never touched the alcohol...was he changing that just because of Maddy? "So weird encounter aside...any preference on color?" she asked, referring to the angel silk gowns that they would be allowed to wear.

  Arnie leaned  a bit  closer to Billie..yeah.. never saw him take a drink up here..he had a beer once in a while on the rec dec,,and the toasts, of course.. It must  have mean something to him, to do that..we'll see..

 Now? Color?   I like  ESN  Blue..it will look good with that  Blue Max  choker  you ladies  wear..  I think you know the preferance  odf what i really like seeing you wear...

In reply to Kray Shadow (msg # 192):

Madison giggle laughed. "Wow. yeah. I think it would be neat to see me in a swim suit too. Oh my God, I don't think I've worn one since the swim test at the academy. And then it was that ugly academy one piece. The last time I was at a beach was my sophomore year at Riddle. I guess if you don't like it, I can always... um, take it off."

   Shadow  smiled a Bit,well....there is a god bet, i may want to take it off, more. If I like it?

 I did  see you guys  Gettig a tan on  E-1, but, not the same as a bathing  suit...I mean, the coverage is about the same, but..the esthetic ?  But...i suddenly want to take  you swimming...

Madison's head dropped, shaking side to side. She was blushing and grinning like a fool. It was hard to believe that she was having this conversation so openly, but this was the new Madison. Just that morning she confessed to being able to shoot the Most High through the head, summary execution style. This should be easier, and a lot more fun.

"Ya, well if I had known I would be out in my underwear, I might have picked something more interesting than the basic issue. Maybe something in red lace and silk. I'm being honest, but I really didn't think you noticed me among all those beauties. I mean, that's fine. Really. I'm not the one that needs to stand out." She looked at him. "But if you did notice, I wouldn't have minded. I'm not sure I would have gone swimming with you then, but I look forward to it now."

"Just be advised. If you want to go now? I'm not wearing a swim suit under this."

    not  only  am I a Pilot, but the WC,, I am used to, 'taking everything in...'
 whether it was in the Bunk house there, or  out  in the  compound?  so..yeah? I notcied.. and
 i enjoyed   everything i saw.. including you..but..hey.. i'd like to think i'm not a dog..but i'm still a guy.

 his eyes   darted to the  v in her  dress, with out  any provocation from himself..well.... i mean.. we don't have a pool on the  ship.... one eyebrow raised , the half smile  did as well.

"Ya, well... I think all guys are dogs in some way. Those that aren't don't get to sniff. It's actually expected behavior. There just has to be a tact too."

Madison followed his eyes. "Well than I guess we'll have to find another activity that doesn't require a suit"

   Shadow's  arm   tightened a bit on her shoulder. He looked at her eyes  now ...well.... i mean.. It has been a stressful last 4 days or so...and.. I do have alot of room in my quarters...But.. would it spoil the  'frist date" if we  finish the night there?

 Or.. maybe  just head there. and relax  a bit, and  see  where the Night ends..and are you sure you want to  miss this view?

“I guess I just didn’t think that he would have done that just for a lady but...” she gave a shrug. It was truly none of her business on how others changed themselves for those that they were interested in. Arnie’s comment about his preferences brought a deep blush to Billie’s cheeks, her look shifting to a shy one. “Well Mr. Bartender…are you here all night or am I able to convince you to come back to my place?”

 Arnie   wiped down some of the  wet glassees  Savic  brought  back.

 he  shook he's head, his eyebrows  raised as he said..Gee.. I mean.. i won't   be off shift  Until 1:00...  so if  I came over, i might have to bring  my dress unifrom for the send off..and...maybe  sleep over?

In reply to Kray Shadow (msg # 200):

Madison sighed. "You'd figure in space we would have endless night."

"The way I heard the schedule of events, there was a wetwork mission between now and the official first date. If I was the same chick that first walked onto this boat, we wouldn't be having this conversation. But who I am now lives for now because there might not be a later. So, nope. It won't mess up anything.. except maybe my hair." She grinned

  Shadow   stod, the  left arm that had been around her, now extended to help her  up...I sorta good  at messign things  up..Palnets, fighters, bad guys... but  I think i may be able to conentrate, on hair this  time ..

Let's go then.. OB  Dec  will be here as long a the Hermes sails..

Taking Kray's hand, Madison rose from the chair. "Let's see if I can help you practice that. Hm?"

  Shadow stoped at the Counter, ..a bottle of that Burian  Yello-green stuff?..

Arnie looked at the LC  like he  had two more arms that a Sanri..Sure..LC..um..here..its on me...

 Shadow shook his head...sorry Sailor..its still  'after party'..i'm still paying.. ...he  skip  two 20 cred paper to him

 Bit..this is too Much...

 Buy your girl a drink, keep the rest...

  Holding the Bottle they walked to the   door.

 Maddy-Shadow, Officer's Quarters.>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

“Well I don’t mind you…sleeping over…if you don’t,” she smirked, biting her bottom lip as she watched him. Noting Arnie’s gaze drifting to someone approaching, Billie shifted and glanced over her shoulder, seeing Shadow and Madison approaching. Remaining quiet as he ordered a bottle, she couldn’t help but snap her gaze to Arnie, noting the concern there. She said nothing though, only watching as they walked off before looking to Arnie, that question clear on her own face.

  Arnie  watched them go..The LC doesn't  drink..i mean,,ever? sends offs? maybe a glass or two if he needs it to use as cover.

 he   places   a Bura berry Bomb in front of  Billie..there? Yiou have  drink, and I have my tip.

"You would know better than I...I just haunt here but...I haven't seen him drink outside of send offs and such. I am honestly not sure how to feel on it...should I be worried? Is Maddy bringing out a...darker side of Shadow that shouldn't be...unleashed?" She really didn't know how else to word it and it also made her more wary of Madison. When Arnie set a Bura berry bomb before her, Billie smiled. "Mr. Bartender...you know you don't have to get me drunk to get into my pants right?" Chuckling, she took the berry and dropped it into the liquid, watching for a brief second before downing the drink.

 Arnie grins,well ? I thing i have to, since its  part of the job. I'm only to stop ..OTHER..guys from getting you  drunk for that reason.

She wiped a hand across her lips, suppressing a chuckle so as to not choke on her drink. Once she safely swallowed, Billie laughed. "I mean...that is a fair point I suppose..." With the drink finished, she slid the glass to Arnie. "How have things been with Slavic?"

 he shook  his head... we left the  windows  open a 5 yards.. I swear she was rooting  for the Angels... don't know why, Angels treated her  people like  idiots.

 we have a couple hours  yet, Unless yoiu want to go  up early? and  I'll catch up when i  and off duty?

“I suppose I can head up and eagerly await your arrival,” she smirked as she hopped off her stool. “I’ll see you in a couple hours?” She waited for him to finish with whatever he was doing before moving up to him and wrapping her arms around his neck. “See you soon.” An intense tingling sensation coursed through her causing her to shudder, a sensation that she has become accustomed to thanks to her tactile hyperesthesia. With a wistful sigh, she shifted up to her toes and kissed him deeply.

  Arnie   smiled   as  he  accrpted and returned the kiss..when they broke, he said,now that's the  kind of  tip  i could use more of..well..except from the LC.. I'll take the creds  instead.. he grinned    , Giving her  a rump pat as she headed to the door.

"Well there is more when you come up," she said as she turned to walk away. She giggled from the swat to her backside, pausing in her step to give him a mischievous look before heading out, a notable bounce in her step.

>>>>>To Officer's Quarters

------>>>>>> From Officer Quarters after dinner and dancing.

 Lizzy and Izzy had a wonderful, amazing dinner at the Officer's club, they got a private table and they put roses on the table for them as well. After their amazing dinner Lizzy and Izzy went to the Pulse and danced their asses off, they drank had sexy dances together and had a great time.

 After their amazing evening together they arrived on the OB dec. " Wow that was amazing Izzy, so where would you like to sit and what should we have to drink?"

——> Officers Dec

”Let’s find a seat by the window, you look so pretty with the stars shining in your eyes” Izzy softly whispered into Lizzy’s ear before leading her over to a secluded seat where they could watch the stars through the giant meta-glass window, with Izzy suggesting they share a bottle of wine as they did so. After all it wasn’t everyday they got to sit and relax together like this, and it wasn’t like they were going anywhere in the morning.

The evening had started in the officers mess where the pair of them had a nice meal and a bottle of wine, with Izzy ordering a ravioli dish in a creamy white sauce, followed by a baked chocolate cheesecake that was just heavenly!

Afterwards Izzy would take Lizzy down to the Pulse for an evening of dancing and to make the guys there jealous as she, in her opinion, danced with the prettiest girl in the room, with them sipping cocktails between dances.

And so it was a slightly tipsy Izzy that would cuddle up against Lizzy as they sat and watched the stars and ships go by as the Hermes made its way through the Black to the next stage of its campaign against the Empire, making easy to forget that they were on a warship and most likely heading into battle.

Lizzy held Izzy close as they sat and watched out the OB window. That was wonderful my love let's stay here for a bit then head back for our last night in VIP.

Looping an arm around her wife’s slender waist, Izzy would snuggle in closer and nestle her head into the side of Lizzy’s neck ”yes, it will be our last night in the VIP quarters and it’s nice big bed won’t it” Izzy softly said as she gently kissed her wife’s cheek before continuing with a giggle ”…guess we’ll just have to make the most of it won’t we?”

She would silently sit and watch the stars for a while, enjoying the feel her wife’s body against her own as she paused every so often to to either take a sip of her wine or steal a glance down Lizzy’s top ”I wonder where we’re headed?” Izzy quietly said, trying her best to spot any familiar constellations and failing…not that she knew much about stars anyway.

Lizzy cuddled close with Izzy, Lizzy responded," Yeah but it has been amazing, everyone did a great job, our wedding was amazing and now our honeymoon. Yeah dont worry I have plans and we will be fine in our other quarters but maybe find a civie place though."

 They would sit and watch the stars, Lizzy opened her heart and hoped her mom could see her this happy. "I have no idea, but I bet we will find out soon." After some more time cuddling Lizzy said," Izzy time for our final night lets go enjoy it." Lizzy took Izzy's hand and they headed for the VIP quarters.

------------->>>>> To VIP Officer Quarters.

”Sooner than we’d like I expect” Izzy softly responded before gently nipping the lobe of Lizzy’s ear with the wine making her increasingly amorous, and mire than a little curious about Lizzy’s “plans”.

At  Lizzy’s suggestion that they go back to their quarters to enjoy the last night in the VIP quarters Izzy would take Lizzy’s hand and walk out the door with her.

——> Officers Quarters

<<<<<From the Hanger Dec

She wasn't sure if Arnie was working or not but maybe sitting here, staring out into the black would help calm whatever was going on through her mind. Her gaze instinctively went to where Arnie should be and if he was there, she'd head over to her usual spot...if he wasn't...she get a drink and find a place to settle in.

 Slavic and  Arnie  were stocking the   Ports side  bar.. ESN blue  tubule lights  around the Mirrors of the  bars, some one  else was way over at the Starboard   side bar.. some  Dim lights the stand up tables,  and the theater seating   for the windows  was  dottd with pairs.

  Arnie  waved  to  Billie

She headed to Arnie’s station, a soft smile on her lips as she pulled her hair back into a messy bun. It sucked that he was pulling a double shift but at the same time, she appreciated his reasons. Upon seeing him, Billie moved up to him, waited for when he was free and gave him a kiss. “Hey...how are things?” she asked, taking her usual spot at the bar.

  Arnie grinned as he  saw her, he collected hi kiss and added one...Pretty good... I mean, the  double sucks, but Slavic has been ;ordered' by The LC to get a dress  and show up at the Ball..guess he wants her off the ship to see  real live peple who aren't trying to kill us all the time... we'll have  2  Civis  runing the OB  for those who stay?..don't know why you would stay.. we're on the Hermes around the clokc, and can't escape , most times! 

She chuckled softly. “I could understand why someone would want to stay. I quite frankly enjoy the time spent with you off the ship but if it weren’t for you...I mean...I would probably be more of a recluse.” It was true. It was Arnie who always seemed to push her to be more social and usually it turned out for the better even if it was out of her comfort zone.

    leanign  on the bar, there were a  few  folks running around, but most were  getting  gear squared away from the Ball, Beach and parties. well? we are out here to fight... But we are  lucky enough the Admiral  tries to let us loose   once in a while  so were don't  go Spacy  on everyone

“Oh trust me...I am not complaining in any way,” she smiled. “And I really appreciate that the Admiral does what he can to give us that reprieve. Grant it, I enjoy the time on the beaches and such with you but I also would be very content with a club or just some good music with a heavy beat to dance to. I think that is what truly calls to me...the beat.” She shifted a bit and leaned forward on the bar, pressing her lips to his. He seemed to be the only one who understood that draw.

  With a  Small smile, Arnie took the  Kiss, an arm came up and Rubbed her shoulder.well?   Nooen on this boat  overly enjoys   the  Big  fights, and its  hard to say  if the down time is worse, then the fights!.. But its hard to to get though  either, with out some  time on a planet or a station..so?  we'll find something.

“Oh I don’t doubt that,” she chuckled as she reached up to tuck a rogue piece of hair back behind her ear. He always seemed to go with whatever she wanted...like if she wanted to go to the club, he made that happen...or if she wanted to just stay in and laze about, he seemed more than happy to oblige.

  Arnie    attended  to some other folks and  came back...so? another fancy  ball for you to show off in...i have to Say, it shows the Confidence the captain has in herself,  all these hot women  she dreses in Angel silk, there are women who  wouldn't dare to be  that close to  another Hot  woman..right?

“Confidence can be scary,” Billie smirked as she shifted in her seat. It was something that she couldn’t really say she had a lot of. She was confident in her abilities as a pilot but when it came to social situations...she felt awkward at best. Then again, she was always grateful when she had Arnie with her because being social came natural to him which made since given his job. She had always been heavily sheltered and homeschooled so learning those social interactions just never came.

From Madison's Quarters

With some time on her hands, Madison came out onto the observation deck, first taking a stroll by the windows, then stopping at the bar. If she was going to relax, it might as well be with a drink and looking out at the majesty of space. Sliding up onto a barstool, she raised her hand to catch Arnie's eye, then waited patiently for him to get to her.

 Candy  came up on the OB  Dec  waving to Billie, Arnie  and  Maddy, she sat  down  as Maddy got he r Drink, Candy asked  for a  Soda.

 Time for us to be heading to Captain Si's quarters.. i heard  some of the  Girls   runnign like  it  was picture day at the academy

Madison sipped her drink immediately, turning in her seat to greet Candy. "I can get used to this. Going from party planet to party planet. One day I'll be interviewed by some reporter back home and they'll ask what it was like being on the Hermes. I'll say it was always exciting. You never knew if you were heading to a party or a battle, but we gave our all either way."

"So, more Angel Silk. Yeah. That's a mission I'll always volunteer for. Pretty wrappings for Kray's present. Ready when you are."

To Captain Si's Quarters
This message was last edited by the player at 17:02, Mon 01 Apr.