S2:M1 - The Hero We Deserve

[Michael J. Tritter]

[Location: Puzzles, Sick Bay - Autopsy Area]

Tritter was standing in the storage area of Puzzles, eyes closed, the large man was formulating what had happened to the other man in his mind... He had seen glimpses of the man being burned in the chest, them strangling him to death with their bare hands... Tritter knew this was personal and he knew he was going to find out exactly what had happened to them. Thankfully, one skill he had mastered was being able to bury what happened in his past deep enough that when he dealt with these cases, he didn't end up in a pit of self destruction due to what had been inflicted on him as a young person.

He eventually would leave the storage area, and would weave his way through the decks to the Primary Sickbay, which is where the Morgue and Autopsy areas were located. Tritter noticed a familar face, Nurse Leesill as he made his way into Sick Bay. The female Trill did not speak to him, her eyes cast down and away from him. Tritter simply nodded to her and made his way towards where he was headed, he moved with confidence and a sense of purpose that some found off putting. He also could be a bit of a scary figure to some as well. Tritter would move through a series of hallways to end up in the Autopsy Room.

He would than make his way towards the body, who was laying on a stainless steel table that was roughly four feet off of the ground. The room was bright, almost too bright for the Commander to be comfortable, but he figured it was to allow the Doctor to see better. The Doctor had just begin the autopsy, she was dictating notes to the computer about the condition of the body as Tritter approached. She than greeted him, "Hello Commander" Tritter gave her a slight nod, followed by a greeting of "Hello Doctor" He reached for a pair of gloves, they actually had ones that fit his large hands, the Commander was surprised but appreciated it.

He listened to her notes, she was documenting the external injuries to the body. Tritter would notice them as she spoke, his intent and focused gaze looking over the body from feet to head. The Doctor would examine each of the areas of the body as she spoke about them, but her first mention would be the estimated time of death based upon temperature of the body. She noted that the person had died roughly eight hours prior to their arrival to the Autopsy room when factoring in for normal temperatures and conditions. The bruises to the legs, including a fracture to the right leg's tibula and fibula. The Doctor had included an anecdotal note that she suspected it was from a hard round object of some form. She than mentioned there was no external physical signs of sexual assault, the Doctor was quite thorough. The Vulcan approached uncomfortable topics with a certain emotionless aloofness that could be seen as unnerving to some. Her tone was matter of factual and not emotional. The female Vulcan was very factual and Tritter appreciated that.

She would than go over the injury to the man's chest. She would include notes about how the burn to the man's chest was done while he was alive. She also cataloged further bruises to his ribs. She would than start with his left arm, grabbing the man's left arm, documenting each injury, bruises and cuts that she saw. She would than do it with each arm. The Vulcan also added notes to the log about the significant defensive wounds to the man's forearms and hands, she mentioned it indicating that he put up a fight with his attackers. Tritter knew what that meant and he didn't need to ask the Doctor, he was far too much of a seasoned investigator to ask those types of questions. She would than mention the significant bruising around the neck, how she could see hand prints it and than mentioned how there were external signs of a hyoid fracture, but she added in a very matter of factual tone that such can only be determined fully with an internal examination. She would than proceed to examine the victim's shaved head. She noted a few bruises to the head, but included in her notes that upon palpation, there was no signs of fractures to the skull. She also added in a very matter-of-factual tone that such can only be confirmed with an internal examination of the cranium and brain for damage. The Doctor added "The bruises are hours older than his estimated time of death. I suspect these may be separate incidents" Her tone once again was cool and matter of factual.

The Doctor than focused her gaze upon the Commander, she than asked him, "Commander, I will require assistance with rolling the victim over" Tritter nodded to the Doctor and proceeded to assist the Vulcan with rolling the victim into a face down position. She would than catalog the injuries that were visible from the back. Her first notation was that lividity was fixed on the back side of the victim, indicating he died with his back against the ground or another surface. The Vulcan than went through the extensive injuries to the back of the victim's legs and back. She also mentioned that there may be a significant injury to the back of the head that would require confirmation by internal examination. The body was extensively photographed, x-rayed and scanned during the external examination.

The Vulcan than said, "Commander, please assist with rolling the body back over" Her tone was very flat and matter of factual, he appreciated her direct nature. Tritter nodded once again and proceeded to assist her with rolling the large man's body back over, Tritter did most of the work but he did not mind. The Vulcan proceeded to take a laser scalpel from a nearby rolling table that had the tools she would need for the autopsy on it. Tritter's gaze naturally shifted to the table, it was about the same height off the deck as the autopsy table. It was a stainless steel table roughly 18 inches by 18 inches that could wheel around the area, although the Vulcan preferred to keep it in one spot. There was a blue gauze type substance that was covering the stainless table, he suspects such was done to make cleaning and maintenance of the instruments and area easier.

On the table were instruments such as a laser scalpel, endoscopy cameras, bone saws, scissors, probes and other medical tools. Which truthfully, they made Tritter kind of nervous but it was something that he hid very well, even so that the usually perceptive Vulcan types would not be able to notice it. The Vulcan would than shift the laser scalpel between her long and thin fingers, she proceeded to make a typical Y incision in the man's chest, starting from the far side of each clavicle, cutting down and to the center at a fourty five degree angle, she would than do the same from the other side of the chest. Once the incisions met in the middle, she than cut another incision from sternum to belly button. She than set the scalpel down and proceeded to finish opening the chest cavity using a bone saw. She wielded the bone saw with an almost eerie familiarity with the tool. Tritter pondered perhaps that she drew some twisted enjoyment from it. She would than proceed to open the chest using a standard bone spreader.

Once the chest was open, she looked towards Tritter, "The scale Commander" He would simply nod and reply with "Yes Doctor" to the Vulcan. He would get the scale and place it on another rolling table. She than stated, "I will examine the organs, I will give them to you to weigh and I will than document that for the records" Tritter nodded to the Vulcan, indicating he understood. She would than proceed to remove each organ one by one, spleen, liver, kidneys, intestines, stomach heart and lungs. She would hand each organ to Tritter to weigh and hand back to her. She would take samples and place them off to the side in separate containers that were labelled with the organs name. This was so the Pathology team could study the organs to make sure that there was not a cause of death related to the organs, either natural or un-natural that would have caused the man's death. The Vulcan worked in a quite and methodical way, she only spoke when necessary. She only spoke when reading the weights of the organs. Tritter would hand them back to her after she read the weight, she would take parts of it for samples and than place the rest back in the abdominal cavity. She did this with all but the stomach.

Once she was done with the abdomen, she proceeded to auto suture the incision back up. She than stated "Commander, put the scale off to the side and I need an organ bowl" Tritter nodded to the Doctor, he found the way she spoke to him a bit... irritating as he felt she thought he was an idiot, but it was useless for him to say anything. He did as she asked and put the organ bowl on the small table. The Doctor would than grab the table with her long and thin fingers, pulling it over towards the body. She placed the stomach in the bowl. She proceeded to use the laser scalpel to open the stomach open. She would than move the stomach to the side of the bowl, examining the contents of the stomach. She added the following to the notes, "The stomach is of typical weight, 1,061 grams. The stomach contents are unremarkable. Consisting of partially digested steak and potatoes. It is estimated the individual ate two hours before his death" She would than put the other organ samples on the table with the stomach, so that they could be examined later.

The Doctor would than take the laser scalpel, she would proceed to cut the skin away from the skull, so she would be able to cut it. The Vulcan than took a bone saw and proceeded to cut the scull cap off. The Vulcan would than set the skull cap on a empty table. She would than proceed to remove the brain, she matter of factly handled it to Tritter, who was standing there, holding the brain in both hands watching the Doctor as she proceeded to examine the skull for injuries. She than added the following to the notes, "Let the record show that the victim has blood on the interior of the skull." She than turned around and took the brain from Tritter. The Vulcan held the brain up, looking it over like a mother would before allowing her child to go outside. She than added "The brain has indications of subdural hematomas. They are not severe to be the cause of death, but I will examine the brain internally shortly" She than gave the brain back to Tritter and directed him to place it in another organ bowl, which he did, delicately... Since the brain was in both of his hands.

The Vulcan would than begin to cut the brain open using the scalpel. She made quick work of this, as if she had done this before. She worked an in an efficient, quick and thorough fashion. She than stated, "The brain shows minor indications of hematomas. They are not fatal and are not the cause of death" She directed Tritter to place the organ bowl with the sliced up brain in it next to the one that contained the stomach. Tritter did as directed and made his way back. She would than place the skull cap back on and place the skin back over it, she would than suture it shut.

The Vulcan Doctor made her way to the throat. She than took the laser scalpel and proceeded to slice from the base of the jaw to the top of the sternum open. She than stated "Commander, come here" Tritter would approach the Vulcan, although he did not violate her personal space. She than stated "Commander, please place your hands on the victim's neck as if you are trying to choke them" Tritter looked at the Vulcan, he pondered her direction but he did as she asked. He moved into a position where he could actually do that, placing both his large hands around the victims neck as if he was actually trying to choke them. The Doctor than added "Let the record show that whoever strangled our victim is about 20 percent larger and taller than Commander Tritter" Tritter pondered for a moment... There was not many on the station bigger than him, at least that was documented as having been on the station.

She would than state, "Commander, I need to open the neck for examination" Tritter nodded and stepped away as per the Vulcan doctor's request. She would than open the area so she could investigate. She would than proceeded to look through the area, she than stated, "Let the record show that the hyoid bone is fractured." She would than proceeded to close the neck and suture it shut. She would than open the man's eyes with her fingers, she than added "Let the record show the eyes show signs of Petechiae, supporting the hyoid fracture and asphyxiation as the cause of death. The facial area also shows sign of Petechiae. It is the professional opinion of this Doctor that the hyoid fracture is the cause of death" She than focused on Tritter for a moment, "The burn to the man's chest is the only injury inflicted shortly before the man died, the others are a few hours old as I had mentioned" Tritter pondered... It was personal to burn that type of mark on someone and than kill them by strangling. He knew what type of killer they were, they enjoyed making others suffer, they enjoyed using their hands, the feeling of power that it gave them and he would soon learn more about their killer.

The Doctor that proceeded to open the mouth, she leaned in curiously and than stated, "Let the record show there is an object in the air way, I will proceed to remove it" She proceeded to take a pair of forceps and remove the item from the airway. She would than proceed to unfurl the item, it was paper, it contained the following message.

"To all who may read this message. Let it be known that unjust and immoral behavior will not be tolerated on my station. If you wish to engage in such, let this man be an example to you. I will not stop until all unjust and immoral behavior is eradicated

Signed,

Vengeance"

The Vulcan remained steeled and focused as she finished reading it. She than handed the letter to Tritter, adding "It may be relevant to your investigation Commander" Tritter would than read the message, he found it curious, his facial expressions had a hint of curiosity in it as he had read it. The Vulcan found his expression of emotion strange, she wondered what purpose it would serve but she did not ask the Commander, as she did not see a point to doing so, it would be illogical and a waste of her time to ask the Commander about his emotions. Tritter made note of the fact that their kill was motivated by some type of morality and justice.

The Vulcan Doctor that looked to Tritter in a calm and focused fashion, she than stated "Thank you for joining me Commander" Tritter nodded slightly to the Doctor and added, "It was most informative Doctor, thank you" He would than proceeded to turn on a heel, he would toss his gloves in a nearby trash receptacle and make his way out of the autopsy area when he heard a... commotion to be simple. He decided to investigate, he took ten steps towards the source of the commotion when he saw a highly angry Captain Ayedemi leaving with the Trill Nurse from earlier behind him. It appears he had been escorted out of the area... He wondered what happened, but he kept that to himself for now. He found it odd how the man who he thought could match his own intensity and strength had a wounded dog look on their face. He could tell they were fuming and he avoided the situation.

He than tapped his comm badge, "Commander Tritter to Cadet Lachlyn, time of death is estimated at 1600 hours, I will be down to Security shortly with further details" Tritter would than make his way out of sick bay, he noticed the more than slightly shocked look on the Trill Nurse's face, but he didn't comment about it, but he knew something had to have happened involving her and the Captain. He simply nodded to her as he left, she simply avoided his gaze, which was typical for her. Tritter would proceed to make his way back towards Security, a place that he felt comfortable and it also helped him feel like he had a purpose other than reading reports - which was not his favorite thing to do by a long shot and he had been having a bit of a struggle as of late feeling as if he had no purpose, something he had lengthy conversations with both his Husband and a Therapist about. Tritter was not the type to let things get too bad, although he didn't like shrinks, he knew that they could be helpful with things.

Once he arrived in Security, he greeted a nearby Ensign and asked for Cadet Lachlyn. Once advised of her location, he proceeded to make his way over towards the female. He would than greet the Cadet, giving her a few moments to return the greeting before he stated, "The autopsy has indicated our victim died around 1600 hours, they were moved from another location to the storage area at Puzzles. I suspect this is that their location of death was somewhere secluded and our killer wanted him to be found. The man died a very violent death, it was personal. There was several attackers. His bruises were inflicted several hours before his death. The only injuries inflicted at the time of death or shortly before are the V shaped burn to his chest and the injury that killed him, a hyoid fracture. We also found this in the victim's airway" He proceeded to hand the letter they found crumpled up in the man's airway to the Cadet so she could investigate it and offer her assessment of it.

[T'Prina]

[Diplomatic Situation Room]

T'Prina sat alone, gathering her thoughts and transferring her notes from the inquiry to her personal encrypted wrist PADD. It had certainly been a whirlwind, in Inspector General Atal's case, quite literally. She reflected on his exit, escape seemed a better term. Changelings were a fascinating species. Unfortunately the Founders had such a narrow minded view for beings of such unlimited potential. It finally occured to her what she had originally found so off-putting about him, he did not mimic humanoid respiration. Odds were high they would cross paths again, she would look into any records Starfleet had of Atal. It never hurt to understand an adversary.

Her fingertips lightly drummed over the PADD Jett had entrusted to her. It would be prudent to return it to him. He had been solemn and worried despite his attempts at levity. She crossed her arms, inadvertently hugging the device to her chest. It reminded her of her awkward attempt at human affection and she shook her head. That would not be addressed. She would remain professional and courteous. Right.

"Computer, locate Thomas Jett."

[Promenade]

After a couple of minutes of walking away from the room, Jett stops by the nearest bathroom.  He changed his clothes and then walked into the Promenade.  Instead of being his cheery self and dealing with the merchants.  He stood alone worried about T'Prina.  He wondered what else he could do to help her and the Captain.

The Captain is being targeted by someone...I wonder if we have a similar enemy Jett thought to himself.   As he sat down alone in a table little did he know what would happen next...

[Promenade]

T'Prina approached Jett as he sat at a cafe table, deep in thought. He had assumed his usual apparel, and she almost smiled. The man was endearing with his habits and quirks. She lightly brushed her fingers across his shoulders to get his attention.

"Would it be acceptable if I joined you, Tom?"

T'Prina took the chair next to him without waiting for an answer. Setting the PADD down, she gently nudged it in his direction.

"I thought you might have some questions and concerns, and I would like to help ease your mind. I owe you that at least."

She couldn't share classified information with him, but since he had been there in the room, he knew much of it already. Hands folded on the tabletop, she looked up at him. It was entirely irrelevant, but she again noticed his eyes were a startling shade of blue and suited his face quite nicely. Focus. Professional and courteous.

[Naira]

[Sickbay]

Adeyemi was outnumbered, and he knew it. He didn't curse or stamp his feet, but the wounded little boy look was all over his face anyway.

"I want him revived the moment he's out of danger." The captain said, testily.

"V..."

"He's coming to!" Leesill said.

"V...Vengeance..."

Without being ordered, the nurse injected the poor fellow in his carotid artery with a hypospray.

"Captain, respectfully, I must insist we let Dr. Naira return to work. A patient's anesthesia wearing off in the middle of surgery is not acceptable. Please vacate the surgical area, or else."

"Or else what, petty officer!?" Adeyemi exploded, all of the tension from his trial, the bodies piling up causing his anger to flare.

"Under Starfleet Medical Regulation 121, Section C, the Chief Medical Officer is empowered to issue orders to any officer regardless of rank or billet if he or she feels that officer's behavior or conduct is not conducive to the rendering of proper medical care." The Trill said firmly, without a single quaver in her voice.

V. He said 'V.' And 'Vengeance.' It would have to be enough.

"His name. Give me his name so we can begin to investigate." Adeyemi said, with a touch of desperation in his voice. The meekness of his tone gnawed at him. He hated any weakness, especially his own.

"Waldemar. His name is Waldemar. Now, captain..."

"Yes. I'm on my way." Adeyemi gave them each a look that said This isn't over, and departed, a cloud of black anger following him.

[Sickbay]

Naira glared at the both of them as they argued over the patient before leaving.

"Leesill," She called after the nurse, "I don't know what's gotten into you but we'll talk about this later."

While the two of them normally got along and worked together nicely as a team, they had grown distant over the last few weeks. Leesill had buried herself in work, become testy at times and at others she seemed to be trying to avoid her. Naira, herself, had been pretty busy overseeing the repairs and had yet to take the time to pull her aside and ask what had been bothering her.

But this was not the time.

She returned to work, attempting the repair the damage to the man's lung when the monitor above his biobed began to sound wildly. In the brief moment that he had attempted to regain consciousness, his vital signs had spiked. His body had twisted, undoing some of the repairs she had made. Blood began to pool internally in a number of locations.

"Quick, I need assistance over here!" She called out.

A couple of doctors came running over to help.

"Vascular regenerators. We need to stop the bleeding and repair the damage. Compensate for the level of drugs and alcohol in his system."

They worked to the best of their ability, but he was losing a lot of blood. His injuries were extensive and the substances in his system made their work just that much harder. Each time they managed to patch one hole, another two seemed to open up. His body was shutting down. They did everything they could, but finally, she just had to call it.

"There's nothing more we can do for him. Clean up and take the rest of the afternoon off if you need to. I will handle this."

She washed the blood from her hands and shut her eyes for a moment. Then, she contacted the Captain. Doctor Naira to Captain Adeyemi, I'm sorry to report that we've lost our patient.

[Jenna McKinson]

[ NPC Post - Eliana ]

[ Puzzles ]

Many thoughts went through Eliana's head from the time she discovered what had happened to the group sitting down for the grief session. Though strong willed herself, she had to worry about her friend and boss. She had lived quite a while and knew how to handle her emotions for the most part, but she was still uneasy about it all. She herself wanted to get away from this type of danger and uneasiness. The past seemed to be rearing it's ugly head no sooner than her trying to start fresh with Jenna.

Then the revelation hit as Leanna explained about Mathias and everything. Knowing how close she was with Leanna this came as a shock, but for a few reasons. She did have her reservations about Mathias and was straight with Leanna back then. At one point it did hinder their friendship, but she was glad to make amends with her. Another part of her was disgusted at what Leanna described Mathias did to her. If she ever met the man, castration would be the nicest thing she would do to him. He fists were clenched, but she didn't want to outwardly show the anger. Sensing her anger would need to get out sooner or later she sighed. She had heard Rixxy speak and waited a bit for her to formulate a response.

"I guess I will speak next. Leanna I had no idea about Mathias and I am very angry at him. Just know that I will always be ready to protect you and this bar. We are both working and I think everyone else is toward something amazing here," Eliana began. "I completely agree that we had no control over what had happened. I really should be blaming myself as I was on shift and main one seeing things. However, I do know that we are in a safe place now. I want to write this off as a strange occurrence and I think you should too." As she said this, she took Leanna's free hand and quickly squeezed it.

"My feelings are irritation at me not seeing what happened and possibly being able to prevent it. A little bit of residual uneasiness as I am no stranger sadly to a few people ending up dying while I am on shift. I am feeling sad for my friend and boss at the new revelation just heard today. I am feeling anger toward her ex who I will not express fully about in front of everyone. I am also feeling uneasy at a few other personal things that I choose not to bring up here because it is not related to the situation and I leave at the door once I start my shift," Eliana said with a cheeky grin. "Trust me counselor I am just a shade off crazy, but I think I hold myself straight. What I need more is relationship advise rather than a look inside my head. That's a conversation for another day"

[Leanna Mazal]

[NPC Post - Rixxy]

[Puzzles]

Rixxy stood behind the bar, furiously polishing already spotless glasses. She had woken up several hours early to her comm vibrating itself off the nightstand due to the rush of incoming messages. Once she understood the situation, she all but rushed in to see if Leanna needed any help or support. But the boss had Alex there to hold her hand. Among other things, she thought to herself, disapproval clear. It wasn't her place to judge what (or who) Leanna did in her personal time, but she thought the musical man was a bit of a twit. If the bard kept dipping his quill in the company ink, it was bound to get messy.

The Klingon bartender looked up from the glass and her thoughts, to see the boss looking at her. She probably wanted her to talk about her 'feelings' or some sort of Betazoid nonsense. Rixxy was a lot of things, but she wasn't soft and emotional.

"Look no offense Boss,  Doctor, but sitting here having a chat ain't my style. Not when there's some cowardly murdering petaQ running around."

Even though she was obviously of Klingon birth, she rarely acknowledged it, didn't even use her traditional given name. Still, her native tongue would rear up whenever she was agitated.

"I dunno if I trust most of those Starfleet security bums to find their extra appendages with both hands."

She scoffed and returned to her polishing. Anything more she said would most likely be graphic and upsetting to Leanna. Due to the 'grey area' she tended to operate in, a little investigation in her downtime might prove more fruitful than whatever they dug up through legal channels.

[ NPC Post - Eliana ]

[ Puzzles ]

Many thoughts went through Eliana's head from the time she discovered what had happened to the group sitting down for the grief session. Though strong willed herself, she had to worry about her friend and boss. She had lived quite a while and knew how to handle her emotions for the most part, but she was still uneasy about it all. She herself wanted to get away from this type of danger and uneasiness. The past seemed to be rearing it's ugly head no sooner than her trying to start fresh with Jenna.

Then the revelation hit as Leanna explained about Mathias and everything. Knowing how close she was with Leanna this came as a shock, but for a few reasons. She did have her reservations about Mathias and was straight with Leanna back then. At one point it did hinder their friendship, but she was glad to make amends with her. Another part of her was disgusted at what Leanna described Mathias did to her. If she ever met the man, castration would be the nicest thing she would do to him. He fists were clenched, but she didn't want to outwardly show the anger. Sensing her anger would need to get out sooner or later she sighed. She had heard Rixxy speak and waited a bit for her to formulate a response.

"I guess I will speak next. Leanna I had no idea about Mathias and I am very angry at him. Just know that I will always be ready to protect you and this bar. We are both working and I think everyone else is toward something amazing here," Eliana began. "I completely agree that we had no control over what had happened. I really should be blaming myself as I was on shift and main one seeing things. However, I do know that we are in a safe place now. I want to write this off as a strange occurrence and I think you should too." As she said this, she took Leanna's free hand and quickly squeezed it.

"My feelings are irritation at me not seeing what happened and possibly being able to prevent it. A little bit of residual uneasiness as I am no stranger sadly to a few people ending up dying while I am on shift. I am feeling sad for my friend and boss at the new revelation just heard today. I am feeling anger toward her ex who I will not express fully about in front of everyone. I am also feeling uneasy at a few other personal things that I choose not to bring up here because it is not related to the situation and I leave at the door once I start my shift," Eliana said with a cheeky grin. "Trust me counselor I am just a shade off crazy, but I think I hold myself straight. What I need more is relationship advise rather than a look inside my head. That's a conversation for another day"

[Puzzles]

Rixxy's reaction to the situation and her not wanting to discuss how she felt was no big surprise to Leanna as she understood how she worked and that she wasn't one to share her feelings or anything even if involved Leanna and that didn't matter as she respected her and valued their friendship and working relationship. Besides her connections had always proved useful when needed and no doubt she would try to find out what was going on without the need for Leanna to ask. She also picked up on the agitation and wasn't going to make that worse.

Then Eliana spoke next and she remembered how they had fallen out when she had first agreed to marry Matthias and even though they had made up since then knew she was being sincere with what she said and hadn't planned for her to find out the truth this way but now it was out it almost felt like a weight had been lifted. She was aware that she hadn't been the only one wanting a fresh start and was glad Eliana had asked her for a job and smiled when she squeezed her hand. Her playful tone and grin also didn't go unnoticed and it would be something that they could talk about especially as she had a feeling who it involved.

"It's okay Rixxy, no offence taken as I know this isn't your type of thing and how you feel about this PetaQ and Starfleet Security " she said before looking at Eliana. " I know you would have no problem sorting out Matthias if he ever dared to show his face and we'll have that conversation once this is all over ".

Having her staff and friends around her meant a lot to the young Betazoid and would never want to be without them especially as the majority had shared the same experiences as her and would do everything she could to keep them safe. She then looked at Maggie knowing she was the only left to say anything if she wanted too.

" It's okay Lea, I know how much this has shaken you up and yes it was horrible that the poor soul was found here but it's not going to stop me from doing my job and I'm certain its the same for the others we're here for you and always will be"Maggie said and Leanna couldn't help but feel a little emotional at that moment and again this proved just how much she thought of them all as family.

[Thomas Jett]

[Promenade]

Jett remained sitting down on a chair adjacent to a Cafeteria table.  He remembered his last days as a Starfleet Captain before the arrest.

[Earth - 2392]

"Harrison, let's optimize the new upgrades for the automatic maneuvers," Jett said.  He was in the middle of an operation center giving commands as usual.  He had been working in the last days of upgrading the automatic maneuvers.  In short, in the event of an emergency, they wanted to create a program in which the Computer automatically respond with standard maneuvers.  It would be the helm equivalent of the EMH program.

The coding and the selection of the program were top secret.  Unlike the EMH program, this contained Starfleet Tactics and maneuvers.  Jett has spent countless of hours research every single battle from recent encounters.  He was selected to lead the program as one of the best pilots of the Federation.

In the middle of the room, there was a large view screen displaying simulated combat. The Combat was between a Federation Miranda Class and a Cardassian Galor Class vessels.  The odds are that the Galor class would destroy the Federation Miranda class.  However, the Miranda class had the advantage in Subwarp maneuverability.

Jett began to comment "Good; the program detected that it could not outrun the Galor class and made the decision to drop out of warp. Now let's see what it does."

All eyes turned in the view screen as the combat continued.   Jett looked at the screen and then noticed that the Miranda vessel maneuvered around the Galor class.   Jett figured he would have done the same.  Jett based the program on his theories and maneuvers.

He noticed the that the Miranda outflanked the Galor Class and targeted the engines.  "Good job!" Jett said

All of the sudden, Jett smiled turned into a frowned as he realized a wasted opportunity occurred.  "It's over," Jett said

Within seconds the Galor class ship turned and destroyed the Miranda veseel with superior firepower.

Jett then addressed the crown the in the room "All right, what happened?  How can we improve on this?"

The room was silent for a second.  A Commander then commented "It was an unfair simulation for the program.  The Galor is faster and has more firepower than the Miranda class."

Jett then nodded and said, "That is true, but the Miranda is more maneuverable on sub-warp speeds."

The Commander spoke and said, "Which the program detected and engaged in the optimal maneuver which was to drop out of warp."

Jett then explained "Yeah, the problem is that it did everything by the book.  In a situation like that, the program needs to go into more exotic maneuvers, like the Picard Maneuver.  Once the Miranda outflanked the opponent, it should have done a Picard Maneuver with the hopes of taking out the warp engines.  We should have won that battle.  Remember War is not fair.  Everyone take the rest of the day off, we will begin fresh tomorrow, dismissed"

As Jett dismissed the crew, he noticed Two Starfleet Officers coming in with JAG Uniforms.  "Captain Thomas Jett?" The individual asked.

Jett looked at the JAG officer and commented: "Yeah, I already gave my statement to the inquiry last week. I would be more than happy to assist in any way with your investigation.  Like I said I know I broke regulations, but it needed to get done to save those people."

The JAG Officer said "Captain, I am sorry to have to do this.  However, I must place you under arrest."

Jett then commented "Under arrest?  What for?"

The JAG Officer "For the Crime of Treason against the Federation.  We have to relieve you of Command.  I hope you understand, Sir."

Jett nodded "Absolutely, I am sure it just a misunderstanding."  The JAG officer then placed Handcuffs on Jett's wrist.
[Present Day Á¢â,¬"œ Promenade]

Jett stared at the table as he remembered the events.  His thoughts were interrupted

"Would it be acceptable if I joined you, Tom?"

Jett looked at the source of the voice and noticed a familiar face.  He looked at T'Prina, and he felt a sense of relief.  Jett then smiled and answered "Yeah, of course.  I am glad that you are safe."

"I thought you might have some questions and concerns, and I would like to help ease your mind. I owe you that at least."

Jett looked at T'Prina's green eyes.  He noticed her brunette hair over her shoulder.  Jett placed his hand on the table.  He looked at her and wondered what was going on with him.  He wanted to protect her over his self-interest.

"I just have one, did JAG asked you to get involved or did you, Volunteer?"  Jett asked.  His face betrayed him.  It showed that he was concerned and somewhat fearful for her.

"T'Prina, I just wanted to say I am worried for both you and the Captain.  I dealt with this unit before, and it was all confidential.  They kept everything top secret and confidential.  You need to talk to the Captain and make him realize we are on the same team."  Jett commented

"I hate to say it, but war is coming.  I don't know who our enemy is or their motive. Captain Ayemi is already involved, and I am already involved.  I don't think it is a coincidence that the same JAG unit that investigated me is also investigating Captain Ayemi."  Jett said

"I don't know what is going on but I will find the answer.  I don't think Anna's disappearance, Captain's Inquiry and my presence in the Station are unrelated, but whoever this is powerful.  Powerful enough to defeat me once and I thought I was invulnerable.  We have to start working together; if not we will all fail" Jett suggested

"I will help the Captain and try to figure out what is going on.  However, I want you to be safe.  These people will stop at nothing to complete their objective; they will use any weakness we have against us.  I can't afford to lose you."  Jett said

He then tried to hold her hand for a second "When Anna, disappeared I spent every waking moment for years searching for her.  I narrowed down her disappearance at a location close to his area of the quadrant.  That is why I am here.  In my journey, something unexpectedly great happened.  I met you.  I just don't want to be in harm's way.   If you want o to ask for a transfer and leave the Station for your safety, I'll even call in favor or two.  It is not too late for you to leave.  However, I will finish this even if it kills me" Jett said he was trying to give her an option out.

[Auzual Knox]

[Trill]

Although underground by several hundred miles, the air was hot, humid and the little light scattered around the caves in rays that highlighted the dust and heat rising from the pools of light grey mud that bubbled delightfully. Knox sighed heavily as she attempted to fill her lungs. It had been a very long time since she had reconnected. It had been her intention to go straight to the Hoobishan Baths, following Nazar's quite prominent resurfacing for the need of a massage, but she knew that she was in need of something else first.

"Beep beep beep."

The Caretakers glared at Knox as she mouthed 'Sorry!'

Her Padd began to light up to get her attention. She sat up, covering herself with a white linen shawl and debated what the level 5 security transmission was about (all others were on silent alerts).

Knox's heart sank.

A murder? On the Station?

She read on, Commander Tritter's report was extremely detailed, she could hear his strong German accent and felt as if she were standing in the autopsy room with him! And, she knew that it would be a while before she would fancy steak and potatoes again...

"To all who may read this message. Let it be known that unjust and immoral behavior will not be tolerated on my station. If you wish to engage in such, let this man be an example to you. I will not stop until all unjust and immoral behavior is eradicated, Vengeance."

A Vigilante. Great.

Knox continued to wonder what on earth was going on. The burnt V, the repositioning of the victim. It was certainly very unlikely to be a Klingon or Ferengi killing. Not honorable nor profitable. That narrowed down the list of suspects considerably. Then a more concerning thought came into her mind.

A StarFleet officer...?

A Caretaker cleared his throat. She was disturbing the symbionts and had to either stop or leave.

She set alerts for Vengeance and then turned off her Padd. She would resume her healing ritual and then continue investigating. Though her mind raced with concerns and it was unlikely she would reach the state of meditation desired for the ritual now.

[Daniel Howell]

[ Promenade ]

Jenna thought about it for a moment. While she was hungry, she gave a look over to Molly. "I think a quick breakfast would suffice. As long as I get some fuel in me I am good. My mind is already on work,"Jenna said. "I agree, I think a quick grab and go would work," Molly said with a smile.  "I wouldn't worry about Leanna. I think she can handle it. Trust me from experience," Jenna said.

Jenna and Molly led Dan to their favorite quick eats place. While waiting in line for food, Jenna piped in with an idea she had. "Hey chief since Holosuite 5 is causing so may issues, do you think I could run a procedure to basically have holosuite 5 act as a mirror of 4? It'd still function like normal, but I could dig deeper into the issues. Other than that what else needs to be done?" She asked.

Promenade
Dan followed Jenna and Folly to wherever they were going to get breakfast, he'd never really explored the promenade unless it was for official work so it made a nice change to be walking around off duty. Whilst they were in line, Jenna came up with an idea for holosuite 5. Dan thought for a few seconds with his somewhat thought expression before replying "We could but it depends whats wrong with the holosuite. If it's computer based then I don't see why not, but if it's hardware related then we'll have to take it out of service until we can localize the issue. Don't want anyone coming out with a changed appearance now do we." He finished wittingly.

[Naira]

[NPC Post - Rixxy]

[Puzzles]

Rixxy stood behind the bar, furiously polishing already spotless glasses. She had woken up several hours early to her comm vibrating itself off the nightstand due to the rush of incoming messages. Once she understood the situation, she all but rushed in to see if Leanna needed any help or support. But the boss had Alex there to hold her hand. Among other things, she thought to herself, disapproval clear. It wasn't her place to judge what (or who) Leanna did in her personal time, but she thought the musical man was a bit of a twit. If the bard kept dipping his quill in the company ink, it was bound to get messy.

The Klingon bartender looked up from the glass and her thoughts, to see the boss looking at her. She probably wanted her to talk about her 'feelings' or some sort of Betazoid nonsense. Rixxy was a lot of things, but she wasn't soft and emotional.

"Look no offense Boss,  Doctor, but sitting here having a chat ain't my style. Not when there's some cowardly murdering petaQ running around."

Even though she was obviously of Klingon birth, she rarely acknowledged it, didn't even use her traditional given name. Still, her native tongue would rear up whenever she was agitated.

"I dunno if I trust most of those Starfleet security bums to find their extra appendages with both hands."

She scoffed and returned to her polishing. Anything more she said would most likely be graphic and upsetting to Leanna. Due to the 'grey area' she tended to operate in, a little investigation in her downtime might prove more fruitful than whatever they dug up through legal channels.

[ NPC Post - Eliana ]

[ Puzzles ]

Many thoughts went through Eliana's head from the time she discovered what had happened to the group sitting down for the grief session. Though strong willed herself, she had to worry about her friend and boss. She had lived quite a while and knew how to handle her emotions for the most part, but she was still uneasy about it all. She herself wanted to get away from this type of danger and uneasiness. The past seemed to be rearing it's ugly head no sooner than her trying to start fresh with Jenna.

Then the revelation hit as Leanna explained about Mathias and everything. Knowing how close she was with Leanna this came as a shock, but for a few reasons. She did have her reservations about Mathias and was straight with Leanna back then. At one point it did hinder their friendship, but she was glad to make amends with her. Another part of her was disgusted at what Leanna described Mathias did to her. If she ever met the man, castration would be the nicest thing she would do to him. He fists were clenched, but she didn't want to outwardly show the anger. Sensing her anger would need to get out sooner or later she sighed. She had heard Rixxy speak and waited a bit for her to formulate a response.

"I guess I will speak next. Leanna I had no idea about Mathias and I am very angry at him. Just know that I will always be ready to protect you and this bar. We are both working and I think everyone else is toward something amazing here," Eliana began. "I completely agree that we had no control over what had happened. I really should be blaming myself as I was on shift and main one seeing things. However, I do know that we are in a safe place now. I want to write this off as a strange occurrence and I think you should too." As she said this, she took Leanna's free hand and quickly squeezed it.

"My feelings are irritation at me not seeing what happened and possibly being able to prevent it. A little bit of residual uneasiness as I am no stranger sadly to a few people ending up dying while I am on shift. I am feeling sad for my friend and boss at the new revelation just heard today. I am feeling anger toward her ex who I will not express fully about in front of everyone. I am also feeling uneasy at a few other personal things that I choose not to bring up here because it is not related to the situation and I leave at the door once I start my shift," Eliana said with a cheeky grin. "Trust me counselor I am just a shade off crazy, but I think I hold myself straight. What I need more is relationship advise rather than a look inside my head. That's a conversation for another day"

[Puzzles]

Rixxy's reaction to the situation and her not wanting to discuss how she felt was no big surprise to Leanna as she understood how she worked and that she wasn't one to share her feelings or anything even if involved Leanna and that didn't matter as she respected her and valued their friendship and working relationship. Besides her connections had always proved useful when needed and no doubt she would try to find out what was going on without the need for Leanna to ask. She also picked up on the agitation and wasn't going to make that worse.

Then Eliana spoke next and she remembered how they had fallen out when she had first agreed to marry Matthias and even though they had made up since then knew she was being sincere with what she said and hadn't planned for her to find out the truth this way but now it was out it almost felt like a weight had been lifted. She was aware that she hadn't been the only one wanting a fresh start and was glad Eliana had asked her for a job and smiled when she squeezed her hand. Her playful tone and grin also didn't go unnoticed and it would be something that they could talk about especially as she had a feeling who it involved.

"It's okay Rixxy, no offence taken as I know this isn't your type of thing and how you feel about this PetaQ and Starfleet Security " she said before looking at Eliana. " I know you would have no problem sorting out Matthias if he ever dared to show his face and we'll have that conversation once this is all over ".

Having her staff and friends around her meant a lot to the young Betazoid and would never want to be without them especially as the majority had shared the same experiences as her and would do everything she could to keep them safe. She then looked at Maggie knowing she was the only left to say anything if she wanted too.

" It's okay Lea, I know how much this has shaken you up and yes it was horrible that the poor soul was found here but it's not going to stop me from doing my job and I'm certain its the same for the others we're here for you and always will be"Maggie said and Leanna couldn't help but feel a little emotional at that moment and again this proved just how much she thought of them all as family.

[Puzzles]

The councilor sat quietly as she listened to the group speak their thoughts. She crossed one leg over the other and brought her hands to rest in her lap. It was nice seeing the way they were there for each other. Gloria nodded and glanced around the room. She had a feeling that despite everything they had been through, they were going to get through this.

They were going to be fine.

They were looking out for each other, taking care of one another. Though she did make a mental note to keep an eye out for the Klingon. She know counseling wasn't something they normally took part in, but Gloria was too old and stubborn to let that stop her from trying to help.

"If there is anything we can do for you, any of you, please let us know. And if anything thinks of anything they might have seen or heard that you feel may be helpful in this case, please reach out. However, in my opinion, I think you all are going to pull through this just fine. The way you've come together to show support and strength for one another has me convinced that you're going to be just fine. But if any of you would like to meet to further discuss your thoughts, I can set up a time and date where we can do so."

[Leanna Mazal]

[Puzzles]

The councilor sat quietly as she listened to the group speak their thoughts. She crossed one leg over the other and brought her hands to rest in her lap. It was nice seeing the way they were there for each other. Gloria nodded and glanced around the room. She had a feeling that despite everything they had been through, they were going to get through this.

They were going to be fine.

They were looking out for each other, taking care of one another. Though she did make a mental note to keep an eye out for the Klingon. She know counseling wasn't something they normally took part in, but Gloria was too old and stubborn to let that stop her from trying to help.

"If there is anything we can do for you, any of you, please let us know. And if anything thinks of anything they might have seen or heard that you feel may be helpful in this case, please reach out. However, in my opinion, I think you all are going to pull through this just fine. The way you've come together to show support and strength for one another has me convinced that you're going to be just fine. But if any of you would like to meet to further discuss your thoughts, I can set up a time and date where we can do so."

[Puzzles]

Leanna returned her focus to the Counsellor when she spoke to them all and she pretty much said what Leanna had realised that they were always there for each other and she was right they would be fine and life would continue as normal. She may be shaken and scared by her past but wouldn't be where she here now without each and every person who was sat here with her.

" Thank you, your right we will be fine and I have such a close bond with them all that I know I'll be stronger for it and this experience will no doubt make us even closer " she replied " I'll definitely make sure that if any of us hear anything that Security will be notified and if anyone does want separate appointments with you, I have no issue letting them attend in fact I may arrange one with you myself " she added thinking of how much better it might make her feel letting more of her memories out in order to move on properly.

She looked round at her staff once more and knew that Rixxy might not want to take up the Counsellor's offer same with Alex and Marcus but again wasn't going to force anyone to do anything they didn't want to but would let the other band members and Max know what had gone on today when they returned to work.

[Michael J. Tritter]

[Location: Security]

Tritter had made his way into one of the side offices in Security. He proceeded to situate himself in an office that was not designed for one of his stature and he was not a fan. But he made due, as he was dealing with a chair and desk far too small for him. To be honest, he looked like he was at a desk/chair made for someone much smaller than he and it was not comfortable. He had gotten accustom to it, apparently Starfleet does not have many his size within their ranks and such is often forgotten when designing ships and bases.

But needless to say, the man had work to do. He had a time of death and he knew where to start. He would proceed to tell the computer to kill the lights. He left the door open, which was helpful because this was a boring and monotonous task, something that apparently the Cadet had little interest in, but such is ok. He proceeded to key in the codes to allow him into the Station's surveillance system. He than proceeded to load in a facial recognition filter for their victim, he was trying to find them when they were alive. He managed to find them a few hours before death, just leaving their quarters. Tritter would proceed to follow them through their travels throughout the station. He would have to sit through all of it to find when the man actually died and who actually killed him. Tritter was laser focused and attentive, despite this being a boring task.

[Malcolm Adeyemi]

[Sickbay]

She washed the blood from her hands and shut her eyes for a moment. Then, she contacted the Captain. Doctor Naira to Captain Adeyemi, I'm sorry to report that we've lost our patient.

[Lower Promenade - Farmer Dwayne's]

"=/\=Understood, doctor. Full autopsy, immediately." Adeyemi said, and tapped his badge. He nodded to the shopkeeper. "Sorry. Go on."

"You're really driving away customers now, captain," The overweight, oily man who called himself Farmer Dwayne said. "It's hard enough running a butcher with as many vegetarian species around here as we do."

It wasn't the captain driving away the customers, it was the atmosphere. All around him customers were tearing into greasy haunches of meat. There was no air of contended eating at this place, only the sounds of people gnawing, bones clattering on the wooden floor, smacking of lips. The place smelled like a slaughterhouse on a sunny day, mixed with strange alien spices. The air felt over heated thanks to so many open flames. The captain loved his food, but even this place was too much for him. When is the last time the health inspector visited?

"You're always free to pull up stakes and beat feat," Adeyemi offered helpfully.

"Shoot, not on your life," Farmer Dwayne exclaimed proudly. "I comes from Stockton, California. 25 generations ago had a family member who crossed the wild North American continent.  Even further back I had an ancestor who was on the Mayflower, landed on Plymouth Rock and was their first butcher. Some around here call me 'the Founding Father.'"

"Yes, I almost mistook you for George Washington himself," Adeyemi said dryly, and wiped his mouth and lips free of perspiration. "Now, back to the victim, Dwayne?"

"Yeah, of course. He came in here and passed out in the food prep area. I thought he was a pig or something that needed slaughtering. But when he moved around and talked I knew he wadn't no pig."

"I'll be sure to add that to my report," The captain said, lifting up a PADD. "What can you tell me, besides the fact that he wasn't a quadruped?"

"Not much," Farmer Dwayne stirred some murky looking coleslaw, dripping sweat. "He didn't say much that made sense, cap'n."

"Tell me."

"Kept on sayin' 'Vee, Vee, Vee, arrest me.'" Dwayne said . "Over 'n over. I thought he was a shizo, they repeat rhymes like that."

"You a medical doctor in addition to a culinary genius, Dwayne?"

"Naw. I have this uncle...well, I had this uncle, he used to have spells like that." The restaurateur smiled. "Like a plate while you give this all a think, cap'n? Free of charge, of course. Special today is grilled Durani lizard skins. Or a whole groundhog. I do a real nice shucked groundhog, cap'n. Leave the claws and head in for flavor."

"No." His stomach was turning just being in the presence of Farmer Dwayne's greasy slickness. "You think of anything else, contact a senior officer."

"Ayup."

"One last question. The victim came falling down that bulkhead?" Adeyemi pointed.

"Ayup. 'Scuse me." A nearby customer was complaining that there wasn't enough marrow to be sucked out of the bones. Farmer Dwayne drifted over to help.

Adeyemi gratefully left the establishment. It was strange, Farmer Dwayne's was open air, but it felt considerably cooler and fresher just two steps out of the door than it did inside.

He examined the spot where Dwayne had indicated. It was streaked with blood still, the automated cleaning units holding off until the investigation was complete.

"=/\=Analyn, do you read me?"

"=/\=Howdy, cap'n!=/\=" The little girl said excitedly, and swirled into existence. Adeyemi had forgotten that the Promenade had holo-emitters.

She was wearing a tiny little Starfleet uniform, pink undershirt, skirt, and boots, with jewels in her hair:

private image upload

"I wanna cowboy hat like the Farmer man! His place smells yummy!"

"Never mind that, sweetie." Adeyemi said, narrowing his eyes. He'd found out that his predecessor had looked upon the AI as a daughter of sorts, and had talked to her as such. It was surprisingly easy for Adeyemi to transition to it himself; he was quite fond of his little nieces and nephews back on erth. "Can you tell me how a man could slide down this bulkhead? Where would he come from?"

"Well, shoot, cap'n. I reckon I can show you. Real easy. Foller me!" Analyn sidled up to him, hugged his leg.

"Analyn, stop clutching me, this is--"

"GIT 'R DONE!" The little girl shouted and jumped, holding onto his leg.

Adeyemi felt himself rushing upwards at an alarming speed, the acceleration so swift and the altitude change so sudden that his ears popped. He found himself standing on a narrow walkway, a tertiary access to the power pylon.

"What was that?!"

"Holograms can jump further 'n faster than puny old humans, cap'n. Golly gee!" She started to dance; did a country style barrel roll and then a double hitch-kick, looking for all the world like she was square dancing.

He put a hand on the bulkhead while he oriented himself. Adeyemi wondered how long she'd be talking this way, all thanks to that sweaty fatso Farmer Dwayne. The last time Analyn had gotten obsessed with something had resulted in a week of her doing dinosaur impressions until 0300. He could still hear her pterodactyl.

"Wait..." Feeling he was balanced, Adeyemi knelt. He picked up Analyn, who responded by giggling contentedly and hugging him. It was sweet of her, but the captain only wanted to see the ground where she was dancing.

A large V was burnt into it. It was too deliberate to be an accident or some acciddental wear and tear he was reading into.

Analyn turned, and saw.

"Cap'n, that looks like a sign." She said solemnly.

For once, Adeyemi couldn't fault her. "Analyn, a few witnesses said that the man who got killed disappeared in a streak. Could the murderer have been up here and flew down and grabbed him and flew him back up here?"

"I reckon so, cap'n. No transporters were active in this area for a long, long time."

Rudely, Adeyemi turned from her and slowly, carefully, looked down. He could barely identify Farmer Dwayne's, 90 meters below. It was a dizzying height.

"=/\=Captain Adeyemi to Howell, McKinson, Lachlyn, and Tritter. Gentlemen and lady, our killer has built himself some kind of flying device, and carries a plasma torch capable of burning solid rock. Commander Howell, Lieutenant McKinson, I want you to look for missing inventory, especially anything that could fly or burn, like I said. Commander Tritter, take Lachlyn and question the engineering staff. Lachlyn, you're new, so be respectful. We have no suspects yet, and that's Commander Howell's staff. They're our people, so treat them right, but be thorough. Adeyemi out."

"Golly, cap'n." Analyn said, little hazel eyes wide. "There's a doins' a-transpirin' ain't there, cap?"

"...yes, there is, Analyn." He said after unraveling what she meant in his head. "Can you take us down from here?"

"I could...but can you take us to Farmer Dwayne's? I've heard the groundhog is the best." Analyn said, eyes still wide, this time in pleading and not in amazement.

"I have to keep moving on this, I'm afraid. Thank you for your help. Another time."

"No." She stamped her booted foot. "I want dinner, with you, and a cowboy hat. A cowGIRL hat, I'm a girl."

Adeyemi contemplated the ground, far, far below. A slide down the bulkhead wasn't too appealing, either.

"I have to answer any calls I get and I may have to leave, but..." The captain said hesitantly. "I am hungry, I haven't eaten since lunch yesterday."

"Then saddle up, cap'n!"

[Naira]

[Lower Promenade - Farmer Dwayne's]

"=/\=Understood, doctor. Full autopsy, immediately." Adeyemi said, and tapped his badge. He nodded to the shopkeeper. "Sorry. Go on."

[Sickbay]

Naira took a deep breath and got right back to work.

"Computer begin recording of autopsy patient Waldemar, Josef."

Using a medical tricorder, she scanned his body taking note to mention the various locations where the other doctors and her had attempted to heal his injuries. She recorded a number of bruises that he had sustained to his arms, legs, torso, back and head. She had to carefully clean away his blood to fully reveal the extent of his injuries. Unlike the other victim, who looked to have been in a fight, this one looked to have been beaten from every angle.

It was a nothing short of a miracle that this guy had managed to craw into the security office in the first place.

She used a laser scalpel to open him up. She removed and examined the damage done to each of his organs and properly bagged them. As she had originally confirmed, he had lost too much blood and his internal injuries had been too extensive for them to repair in time. As a result, he had gone into circulatory shock, his organs shut down and he went into cardiac arrest.

She talked her way through the procedure, so that the recording could be reviewed later for help in the instigation.

When she was done, she cleaned up once more and saw that the body was placed in stasis. She was headed towards her office when overheard a commotion going on.

"I tell you he was crazy. I was going to kill me."

"Ow...watch what you're doing, that hurts."

Two rather rough looking me were sitting on the ends of two biobeds, arguing with each other while a couple of nurses tended to them.

"Did you happen to see his eyes, they were glowing?"

"No, that was the mask he was wearing, under the hood."

"What's going on here?" Naira asked as she made her way over.

"These two claimed they were attacked by a masked man dressed in black on the Lower Promenade. One is being treated for a broken arm and the other claims to be in pain though we can't find anything actually wrong with him." One of the nurses answered.

"Thank you for letting me know," She replied. "She that this man's arm is treated and keep them here for now."

She went into her office, changed into a clean uniform and contacted the captain once more. Sir, I've completed the autopsy. I can have my report sent to you and security right away. Also, I've gotten a few more patients here in sickbay claiming a masked man attacked them, I don't know if it's related, but I thought I should let you know.    

[Malcolm Adeyemi]

[Sickbay]

She went into her office, changed into a clean uniform and contacted the captain once more. Sir, I've completed the autopsy. I can have my report sent to you and security right away. Also, I've gotten a few more patients here in sickbay claiming a masked man attacked them, I don't know if it's related, but I thought I should let you know.

[Farmer Dwayne's]

Adeyemi's plate was loaded with rice, macaroni and cheese, collared greens and veggies. A side plate of barbecued spare ribs was by his elbow. So far, the captain had just touched his beer. He was too amazed to eat.

For minutes on end the entire restaurant had stopped and stared as Analyn demolished her food. She ate with a two fisted reckless abandon that had Adeyemi sipping his alcohol to cope with the sight. Three bean salad, potatoes, corn, meat...it all disappeared, consumed by a seemingly endless hunger.

"=/\=Yes...doctor, I--=/\="

Analyn had finally ran out of food. Her belch nearly rippled the tablecloth. The captain hoped that his Chief Medical Officer didn't hear that and continued.

"=/\=Pass that information onto security. We are investigating all possibilities. Adeyemi out."

"Moar." The little girl demanded.

"Analyn, don't you think--"

"PWEAAAAAAAASSSEEE!?" She interjected.

"Cap'n, some gentlemen from Forcus III wanna take bets on how much more this lil girl of yours can eat," Farmer Dwayne said. "I bet 'em some latinum she can't finish your food and dessert. Does she like apple pie?"

"WEEEEEEEK!" Analyn trilled, like an angry ferret.

"Eat the cap'n's grub, hon, and you can eat a nice pie for dessert." Dwayne said, beaming. He had his hands behind his back. He showed her a tiny pink cowboy hat. "And this is yours. I had it replicated special."

When Analyn had the hat on her head she grinned through a mouthful of charred meat and fixings. She continued to dig in.

"You know she's a hologram?" Adeyemi asked.

"Shhh! Dammit, cap'n! Not so loud. These fellers are gonna lose their shirt to old Dwayne."

The captain wordlessly turned away from the table and downed his beer. This investigation needed to conclude, and for more reasons than one.

[Naira]

[Sickbay - CMO Office]

After changing into a clean uniform, she sank into her chair and leaned back. For a moment she stared up at the carnivorous plants that hung above her. A smile spread across her face. The last time she had taken the time to relax in her office had been the night they almost lost the station. When she sat with Yoduk.

She had been so busy with incident reports and treating injuries that she hadn't had much time to think of him or her feelings regarding whatever it was that they had. But she imagined that he must have been in a similar position. Even know, he was off somewhere between the border of Federation and Breen territory, his exact location was unknown to her for security reasons, as he fought to regain their lost colony. She told herself that he had to have more important things on his mind. They had both agreed that they had more important things to do. They had jobs that needed their full attention.

She closed her eyes and drifted off as she thought about nothing in particular, but was greeted with brief flashes of mixed memories and the sticky sweet aroma of the plants hanging above her.