Posted by Captain Kelly Bordeaux (Commanding Officer) in Back on the Atlantis…Styxx and Lethe Blue…when the past does not match the present or the future on USS Atlantis

Posted by Civilian Jessa Novar (Child) in Back on the Atlantis…Styxx and Lethe Blue…when the past does not match the present or the future on USS Atlantis

Posted by Mar. Captain River Styxx (OIC Marine) in Back on the Atlantis…Styxx and Lethe Blue…when the past does not match the present or the future on USS Atlantis
Posted by… suppressed (32) by the Post Ghost! 👻
OOC: I created a “counterpart” of sorts for each person. This is yours. I have no real drive in this thread other than for you to take it where you choose. I will follow your lead. ~ Kate

IC:
One by one a person was called forward to be introduced to what was essentially the counterpart of the Atlantis in the Galactic Union. “Marine Captain I am Sarvan Lethe Blue.” He nodded a crispy head bob in greeting. The woman before him seemed pensive or maybe was just pissed off. Either way it was his job to try and be cordial. The main issue with this was his career path did not lean towards polite banter and funny humor. He was a soldier just like the woman before him. Aside from the basic visual differences between them, both he and Styxx had the characteristic posture and demeanor of a soldier. Lethe was shorter than most soldiers at just an inch under six foot. His red hair was cropped close to his head in the classic buzz cut. His fatigues were a mottled pattern of grays that let him blend in slightly with the colors and shadows of the hangar. The man could not disappear into the walls however if postured in the correct spot among the corners or shadows, it would take a trained soldier to immediately notice him.

“How shall I address you. I can assume you and I are of similar rank in our respective organisation. Otherwise it wouldn’t make much sense to assign you to me.” she said simply.

River nodded to Lethe “Captain is sufficient. Marine captain is only used to distinguish myself form the captain. But seeing as you will be surrounded by Marines. Captain will do” she said simply slightly emphasising the word surrounded.

The ride back to the Atlantis felt more like a hostage situation than friendly ride over to another ship. The banter was limited and very few people spoke outside their ship clique. Lethe dismembarked with the rest of the group into the hangar of the Atlantis and waited for Styxx to take point in wherever the woman chose to take him. Pellan and Captain Bordeaux had stated this was a time to get to know one another and apparently gave her crew orders to take their Union counterpart anywhere they deemed fit. Lethe was slightly curious where Styxx would bring him.

Sarvan Lethe Blue of the Galactic Union

River had opted to sit in the cockpit of the shuttle. So she could contact her marines and set her plans in motion. River didn’t trust Lethe or the galactic union. She also knew they where planning to cross them and she wanted to make sure that she controlled the situation for as long as she could.

Once the Shuttle landed River came over to Lethe “Come on. Time to get down to business. If you have any question feel free to ask me” she said as the ramp lowered. Three marines stood in the hanger and snapped to attention as River approached them. All three wore their armour but each was slightly different. The first marine was fully helmeted his new armour shiny and immaculate obscuring his face but his name ‘A Swarmer’ was stencilled on the right of his chest. The next marine was tall and muscular even under her heavy weapons variant armor it was clear that she was indeed a mountain of a women towering over the others. the reinforced panels doing little to minimise her stature, her name read ‘S Rydon’.

Finally Freya stood in the centre of the two her helmet maglocked to the side of her CQB stripped back armour. She looked at River then drifted to Lethe “This him boss?” She asked her tail swishing swiftly behind her. River wondered how Lethe would react to Freya, not many people even in the federation had seen Ferasans and their sabertoothed, rugged, fur covered faces and bright yellow slit eyes tended to intimidate most people. Ferasan’s coveted scars so Freya’s face was sprinkled with them. She walked forward and sniffed the air around Lethe.

“He don’t look like much” she said “But his scent tells me he’s handy in a fight. He’d be well fun prey” she added stopping the moment River raised her hand.

“As in on your knees pray or the sporting kind,” Lethe shot back. In Styxx’s position, Lethe’s troops would be doing the same thing. The had taken a hard hit and were aching for payback. They were also loyal and devoted warriors. Lethe could respect that if not all of them individually right now.

“Thank you Sargent Freya. Who knows, when and if they turn on us. You might get your chance to hunt him. Especially now you’ve got his scent ” River said simply. She had asked Freya to lay on the hunter schtick heavily. to gage and see what Lethe would do. His reaction would tell her a great deal about his character.

Lethe remained quiet watching how effortlessly and naturally this woman controlled her troops. It spoke volumes about how they would fight. This small interactions showed that not only would they follow this Captain into the pit of Hell but hold the line with nothing more than a glance. Instead of a a sarcastic quip to rile Styxx’s men, Lethe tried a more humorous approach. “I will be sure to bathe and go heavy on the deodorant.”

“Now I believe you have a report for me” River said as she gestured for the group to move on. River stud at the front Freya at her side while the other two marines where behind Lethe, their weapons ready, giving him no choice but to be in the middle.

“Marine command has been informed of the invasion fleet and are on standby, the Klingons and Romulans have also put their fleets on alert. general Marchuk wanted me to tell you that if you give the word he’ll come in guns blazing and give no quarter .” Freya said her tone respectful, well respectful for Freya.

“Good. I see Marchuk is living up to every Klingon stereotype as always” River said her tone amused.

Freya nodded and looked at Lethe “Our forces are on yellow war alert and will maintain the shift patterns accordingly. Regimental Sargent Major Qrow wanted me to let you know he’s been tinkering and may have found a way for our weapons to be more effective against those union clangers.” she continued as the group reached a turbo lift.

Once they entered River looked at Lethe and gave a fake sympathetic look “I’m sorry. Didn’t mean to neglect you so. There’s a lot going on, Since you parked a fleet on my door step” she said dismissingly as if making a comment about the weather not war.

“Apology not needed,” Lethe said in a neutral but understanding tone. He knew the sorry was more a general statement than actual apology. “No one likes uninvited guests popping in. “

“I have a tour and a demonstration setup for you. Which one would you like to do first?” she asked her tone formal but not unfriendly.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC) & Sargent Freya

“Tour,” Lethe stated immediately. “That way we can get to know each other a bit more before the demonstration. I have been authorized to answer any questions you have and give you a demonstration of any of the weapons on me if you choose see them.” In the few minutes Lethe had known Styxx, he made one assumption. The Marine Captain was no fool. There was no point in lying about things. While the Federation soldiers could overwhelm him and kill him, the Union Fleet would destroy the Atlantis in mere seconds. It was a stalemate of sorts for both sides. Lethe, just like Styxx would lay down his life for their people but Lethe hoped it would not be today that price would be asked for either side.

Lethe Sarvan of the Galactic Union

OOC: oops Sorry i got carried away. If you want me break this up let me know.
Nathan

OOC: It’s perfect. I love your posts ~ Kate.

River nodded “You and I both know that’s not 100% true. There are some answers I want but I know you won’t give them to me.” she said simply “Not willingly at least. Not that I don’t have my ways, should things escalate” she said after a short pause.

“And you know about our armor that makes me pretty damn invincible,” Lethe nodded his head to one side indicating the small metal disk at his neck. Lethe was pretty positive Styxx and his crew had seen the armor in action or at least its defensive characteristics. “You are correct though about the transparency of my answers however I will promise you that if I can’t answer it I will just tell you to triff off.” The language between soldiers was more raw than the fancy ten cent words diplomats used however it served the same purpose. Lethe was told to reconnoiter and reply. He had zero doubts Styxx was going to give him a tour that they would give preschoolers on a take your kid to work day. It didn’t matter though. This was more trying to feel out the crew more than find their secrets.

River chuckled softly and shook her head “If I had a bar of latinum for every time I’ve heard someone call themselves invincible I could buy ferenginar.” she said amusement clear in her voice “Nothing is invincible, not even gods” she added her amusement subsiding slightly.

=^= Marine country =^= River said as the turbo lift moved and began it’s decent. The trip was short but all could hear the distinct whomp of passing through some sort of field as the lift stopped at marine country.

Marine country felt different to any other part of the ship it hummed and pulse with the feelings of pre battle perpetrations. Marine milled about some in armour and other not. Those that weren’t had their sidearms attached to their belts and carried what looked like dinner trays. The deck as dim but not dark and yellow strip lights pulsed along the floor adding a slight yellow hue to the air as if a fire had started in the distance. one couldn’t help but she it as metaphor for the purpose of the Marine to wade into the fire of war and bring victory. A purpose all who served under River pledged to.

As the group got off the elevator they where confronted with a room sealed at one end with a security shield and checkpoint. Two marines stood either sided of the turbo lift their weapons ready. They where mirrored by two more standing at the opposite end either side of the security shield. As River walked towards the check point two ceiling mounted turrets swivelled and pointed that the group scanning friend and foe. They settled and locked onto Lethe tracking his every move.

“Is there a bee on me?” The joke was bland but also served the point of indicating Lethe knew he was in the cross hairs of the weapons.

It didn’t take long for the group to reach the checkpoint as they did an Andorian Marine stood up from behind her desk and looked at the group. She snapped to attention, along with the other marines, and saluted River “Ma’am. Is this our guest?” she asked her tone professional and masking any other emotion. As she spoke she handed River her side arm and holster. River clipped it to her belt.

River returned the salute “At ease Gunnery Sargent She’ann. He is. Give him guest access Omega.” She said simply but not unkindly. It was the lowest guest access it also marked the access for tracking and recording. Though unless Lethe had access to the way River ran Marine country he wouldn’t know that.

The Andorian nodded “Yes Ma’am.” she said before looking at lethe “Please step up to the counter and fill out you Name, rank and organisation” she said as she turned a Padd round and offered Lethe a stylist all the while the turrets and the marines watched him closely. “Once done deposit all weapons and equipment into the lockers they will be given back to you when necessary” she added indicating the the large Silver locks on the right wall. there was twelve in total and two and opened ready for Lethe’s items.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC) and her marines.

Lethe looked at the strange symbols on the PaDD. He had no idea what the PaDD was asking since he could not read the language. If they were going to play games, so would he. Picking up the stylus, Lethe began to write down words and phrases on the lines provided as if he was intently filling out the form only it was in the alphabet of the Union. Styxx and his crew would instantly recognize the ornate script from Jessa’s journal but since no one could read it, what Lethe wrote would be indecipherable to the marines. The computer however had deciphered about ten percent of the alien writing. If Styxx ran it through the computer several words would be interpreted. The words were seriously, welcome, puppy, ale, and the phrase have a triffing good day.. These words were spaced out throughout the PaDD and not necessarily all part of one sentence.

After writing down all he wanted to say, Lethe spun the PaDD back towards the Marine across the counter.

“I am armed but you will have to kill me to take my weapons.” Lethe’s tone was neutral and informative.” Pointing to the small metal disc at his neck, Lethe explained. “When we join the Galactic Corp they surgically implant our armor to our central nervous system. If you promise not so shoot me I can demonstrate.” Lethe was about as thrilled as Styxx was that he was standing on the Atlantis but orders were orders. He waited to see what Styxx would request. They both were soldiers and both of them knew that their superiors had ordered them to play nice for now. Even though Lethe did not trust Styxx, he did respect the way her soldiers responded to her. One could make out a lot just from observations. All of these Marines would follow her into hell and not expect a return trip. Lethe could understand and respect that. There was no need to be difficult since Styxx had not given him a reason to be.

Lethe Blue GU officer

River hadn’t been playing games, well not entirely, she wanted to see if Lethe could read federation standard or not. Seeing hat eh couldn’t River realised that, that might be an exploit. If they can’t read their language then maybe passing orders the old fashion way, would be a good way of stumping the union should armed conflict begin. River also deduced that, that meant there was a hole in their intel. If the union couldn’t read federation standard then their intel would be limited.

“No need to see a demonstration. I’ve seen your armour in action and seeing as I don’t have a can opener. I guess I’ll have to let you through. But don’t try any funny business” River said as she passed through the check point and motioned for lethe to do the same.

“Unless I am given a reason to not be nice you have nothing to worry about. My word is my bond,” Lethe made a fist and slammed it into his breast bone. He was sure that Styxx would see it for what it was. Not defiance but a code between warriors. That did not mean either of them were going to be best friends but each one of them would abide by a detente until told otherwise by their superiors.

“You’re now in Marine country, a couple things to note first. here I am god, my word is law and what I say goes. The marines have sole jurisdiction over this part of the ship and as a result marine punishments are given out. As the commanding officer, on this deck there is no word higher then mine.” She said simply as the group walked further into marine country. At first it looked like any part of the ship but as the group moved further in it was clear that all of the identifying Markings had been removed or covered up. This Had been on River’s orders, A fail safe just in case Lethe was playing dumb with the language. He wouldn’t be able to tell what room was what unless he was shown, making drawing a mental map a bit harder.

“So your Captain allows you unfettered control over this part of the ship and your troops.” Lethe nodded. “Supreme Commanding General Vyce keeps the bureaucrats at bay for us also. Half the time they don’t know their Drak from their elbow but they sure like to talk like they do. Having a strong General at your back is better than a full charged armored suit.” Lethe did feel a certain pang of comradery with these soldiers seeing the tight ship and well trained troops. “Tell me about your Marines.”

River nodded “I couldn’t agree more.” she said pausing for a moment “And I have two” she added.

“Well that sucks for you,” Lethe commented with small smirk. “Our forces are divided into three main tiers of command with the Vyce controlling all of it. We have water, space, and land units. One needs to be prepared for all environments.”

River nodded “The marine corps doesn’t have separate areas like that but every marine has a speciality. We are trained in all environments but others go for advance training, making them experts in that field. Like myself for instance, i am black ops trained, assassination, sabotage and such. Freya is Close Quarters Combat or CQC and Tech who you’ll meet later is electronics. On top of that Our armour is also infinitely customizable and can be pressurised meaning we can hit any where and at anytime.” River said simply “Like you said it pays to be ready for anything” she added.

“The Star Fleet Marine corps is a relatively new addition to the many organisations of the federation. We where brought out of retirement during a conflict known as the dominion war. Star fleet realised they needed an organisation that could compete with and defeat the genetically bred for war soldiers of the dominion. A task which the Marine corps rose to and triumphed over. Not that star fleet didn’t give a good accounting of themselves though.” River said as the group passed by a memorial wall. Seven names where clearly new additions and it wouldn’t take a genius to figure out they where the marines that fell fighting the union.

“Before we where retired we where know as the MACOs and we existed even before the federation, then we fought an alliance of species called the Xindi as well as other threats and there we too where victorious. But the idea of Marines goes even further back. Since humans sailed in wooden ships on earths oceans, centuries ago Marines existed. Many of our ranks, tactics and doctrines stem from that time and we uphold that legacy with pride.” River said as she stopped in front of the memorial wall and looked to Lethe. “Any questions so far?” sha sked her tone more respectful. River could switch her attitude on a moments notice. It was skill she had learned over the years and one that had come in handy more times then she could count. It was very good at throwing people off.

As she waited for Lethe response River grabbed a candle and lit it before placing it on a rack under the memorial.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“Many but I don’t want you to accuse me of interrogating you.” His tone was serious but had the hint of humor only a battle hardered soldier would recognize. “What is with the candle for starters.”

Lethe Blue

River chuckled softly “It’s a beyond ancient earth tradition.” she said simply as she placed the lighter down “For eons humanity has lit candles to remember the dead and the lost. Ancient Terrans used to believe that the lighting a candle and leaving it in a window would one day lead the lost loved ones back to them.” she said as she moved back, snapped to attention and saluted the memorial board. Freya and the other Marines close enough did the same.

After a coupe of second River turned to Lethe “The staggering thing is. Out of the 120 species in the federation almost all of them have a similar practice. whether it be lighting a candle, using a lamp or even a bioluminescent plant, Almost al of them do it to remember the dead. Not matter what god they do or do not believe in, no matter their background or their idea of the universe. Many have this one common thing” River said shrugging her shoulders.

“Does the union not have a similar ritual for your dead. I find it hard to believe that such an alleged religious people wouldn’t have a way to remember?” she asked her tone wasn’t mocking or snide. It was simply curious.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“Our religion requires we burn our dead. A small portion remains with the family but the vast majority it returned to the universe. While everyone embraces the same religion there is some leeway among planets as to how they implement the teachings. Its a lot like school. The Holy Scripture is the only book but the practices in implementation can vary based on whether you are a water world, desert world, etcetera etcetera. Officially this is not allowed however the Union is so large one can not police every city and town. It also helps with integration of planets. The fire symbolism seems to be as strong a link in our culture are your own. For us it is not so much about remembrance but rebirth. Our religion promises that through fire one is cleansed and reborn into a better version of what you were. Fire also lights the way in the darkness.” Lethe shared the lore and purpose but did not have the same sing song scripture quoting as other Union citizens that had been on the Atlantis. “Ātarvazda, let the sacred flame consume the darkness of death, and kindle the light of eternal return.”

Lethe Blue

“So ‘I’ll cleanse your heart in fire’ is very much a bylaw for your organisation. good to know.” River said her tone amused but not mocking. “Why do I get the feeling that those who don’t want to follow your faith are dealt with in a very fiery way” she added her tone shifting to a contemplative one as she moved the group on further.

Lethe let his eyes settle on Styxx. It was not menacing but more confirming in nature. “The Galactic Union is as complex as any biological organism. It adapts and changes to fit its surroundings and yet it can not alter its core principals. It’s DNA if you will. I assume your Federation is the same. It is bound by a set of laws but sometimes those laws hamper you from doing what is reasonable and rational all in the name of law. Now I am not saying we should not have laws. Its just as a soldier at times we see things differently. War is hell.”

“True the federation has rules and guidelines. But joining us is completely optional, as is leaving us. We hold no grudge if someone leaves us or turns us down and we certainly don’t rock up with a fleet bent on ‘colonising’. Most of the time we send one ship and negotiate we don’t force or impose our beliefs on those that do not share them.” River said holding Lethes gaze.

“We do have a lot to learn about each other,” Lethe stated, “although this is a far larger fleet than we normally travel with. What I can assure you is that not all the vessels are for war. With a fleet this size we need self sustaining supplies. We don’t show up ended handed,” he let out a small chuckle. “I look forward to showing you it. As to leaving the Union, no one does because they do have a choice in joining. We present the options and the planetary system itself chooses what they want. I am not a diplomat. I am a soldier. I don’t have the pretty face or nice manners. That is for people like Chancellor Vell. I do where they tell me and take orders. Sometimes those orders are not what I might have chosen but if we as soldiers don’t have orders, we are just a mob.”

“If an army turns to a rabble the second they don’t have any orders then there is something very wrong with that army and its training. The first thing we learn as Marines is discipline both personal and professional. That’s why NCOs are the heart and soul of our forces. They keep discipline and keep order when orders are not given or slow to some down.” River said as she filed away the possibility that breaking down communication in the union forces could cause them to crumble.

“War is hell I’ve fought my share rather recently. But as solider we have to sue our judgment and decide what the situation calls for. We don’t go to the last resort first and If we get to that point it means that everything if FUBAR.” She added.

“Fubar,” Lethe stated. It was a term he did not know.

“F’D Up Beyond All recognition” River explained “It’s an ancient acronym. Meaning that a situation has gone beyond bad. As in everything that could go wrong has.” She added. “But I like to think that, that is when marines are at their best. turning a disaster into a successes. We’re very good at it” she added after a short pause.

Lethe mulled over the term before laughing good naturedly. “FUBAR. For us it would be TUBAR if I am assuming our triffed up is equivalent to your F word. ”

“I’ve heard one of your elders preach and you don’t seem to share their vigour when proclaiming your scripter. Is that an old solider thing? because you’ve seen how the galaxy really is? Or is it just that your elders and preachers go to a fancier school to learn how to orate?” she asked as she headed down marine country towards the muster point.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

The muster point was a large open room used for assembling the marines and for recreation. But a lot of the leisure equipment had been stowed away ready for the coming battle. However a couple fold out chair and tables had been scattered about. River headed for one.

“Got anything to drink? That is a deep conversation which needs alcohol.”

“Alcohol really isn’t much of a thing any more. We mostly use something called synthol. All the flavour with none of the negative effects. But our replicators can make literally anything so long as it’s in our database. I don’t have anything from your union. We’re still analysing all the data I got form the elders ship but I can get you something strong, well strong for us anyway.” she said simply walking up to a panel in the wall. The other marines positioned themselves around the area keeping Lethe in their sights.

Lethe sniffed the drink given to him and took a sip. After he downed his drink, and poured himself another one. He downed that followed by a third emptying almost half the bottle into his glass before speaking. Filling up his glass one more time he downed it before pulling out a knife that was large enough for hand to hand combat but small enough to be concealed on his body without being immediately detected. Balancing the tip on one of his fingers, he flipped it up and caught it while laying his other hand on the table. He felt the numbing effects of the alcohol however Styxx had mentioned the effects of this drink could wear off on command. He wasn’t sure how it worked but he assumed it had to be some mental component. Closing his eyes, Lethe took a deep cleansing breath before opening his eyes and stabbing the table between his thumb and fore finger. Slowing he moved between each set of fingers. Fore finger to middle finger. Middle finger to ring finger. Ring finger to pinkie and then to the outside of the pinkie. He did not stop but slowly increased the speed until the knife flew between each digit resting in the V shaped sweet spot. His hand moved with the skilled precision of any combatant. Styxx and her troops had probably seen a display like this before and some even participated in it via act or wager on their best candidate. It was a common soldier’s past time to show not only bravado but skill with a blade.

As quickly as Lethe pulled his balde River moved, drew her phaser and pressed it against his head. “Careful” she said her tone warning and cold as she pressed the cold tip of her weapon to his temple. As she held it there it began to warm and hum as a shot was charging. But as River saw what he was doing she lowered her weapon and slowly moved back to ehr seat.

“Damn you are quick,” he stated. It was a compliment of sorts. He did not react any other way than passively. He could have shown bravado and attempted to bat away the blade but both he and Styxx knew who would win. Lethe had no desire to die.

“Faster then that armour of yours can deploy” She said simply.

“If I was looking to get shot in the ass I might challenge you to a dare but my momma didn’t raise a dummy,” Lethe joked jerking his head to the right indicating Styxx’s Marines. While they might be giving the appearance of feigned interest, Blue knew they had a laser like focus on him and his every move.

Lethe was not intent on demonstrating his proficiency with a blade but more to test his own reflexes with a blade. The amount of booze he had consumed should have slowed his rate of speed and or accuracy but it did neither. Once he decided to not enjoy the affects of the alcohol, he was a sober as a judge. “Thank you for the drink,” he stated before sitting back in his seat and sliding the knife securely back into its holder.

River chuckled “Handy isn’t it. Enjoying a drink then being immediately ready for a fight, without the handicap of Alcohol. Many have learnt to drink like sailor but sober up fast.” she said her tone relaxing.

Sitting down at a table in Marine country, Lethe for the first time felt uncomfortable. For non believers the conversation was going to be a hard pill to take. “While I do not spout the rhetoric like our Elders that does not mean I am not a true believer in the light. It is what separates us from the animals. As a soldier I feel it is much clearer to us than civilians. We are trained to see an enemy,” he pointed his fingers in the air at no defined point, “and eliminate the threat. Our religion is not just worshiping God but also defending our God from the enemy of darkness. I can tell you that the darkness is real.”

“For the record I have not personally fought against the Darkness and no one in a millennia has actually combated the Darkness but ancient texts exist about those that had.” Lethe was far from being radical in his tone. He actually was attempting to connect with the military mindedness of Styxx and her crew. “It was a brutal battle that almost ended life in the universe. It became to holy mission of the Galactic Union to protect the universe. It is why we spread the word of the light. As a soldier we are always vigilant in protecting the weak and helpless even at the cost of our lives.” Lethe was not amiss at the silence in the space as he spoke. While he could agree with Styxx that the Elders tended to get long winded and preachy that did not mean Blue didn’t believe the message.

Lethe Blue.

“I see” River said simply “Every race has a version of that tale. The Bajorans believe in the par wraths, there is a sisterhood who believe the universe started thanks to a great battle between two sisters that started the big bang. There is even a truly omnipotent species of begins called the Q who have existed for millennia and some believe they will end the universe. When I reality they are just a pain in backside” she said as she took a sip of her drink.

“I have even been called the end of the universe by a race I fought not to long ago. They called me the Devil of Acheron, the destroyer of worlds, the on coming storm and the bane of their goddess empress.” River said rolling her eyes.

“I find such a being is used to control and manipulate others into doing what those in power want. They say they talk with a gods voice and tell people to go a defeat this race or that race. Crusade after crusade and all it does is give those that started it more power and convince them they are far mor righteous then they are. On ancient earth several kings started crusades in the name of their god, Millions died and in the end it was all to control and expand their influence. Faith can galvanise a people, just look at how much the Bajorans endured thanks to their faith. But it can also be used to divide and trap a people. Label someone as a heretic, you guarantee their persecution and eventual destruction” She said her tone serious and full of vigour. River dint have a problem with faith, she had a problem with the people who followed it and used it as a weapon.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“Our holy leader is called the Rectoress. Well this time it is a female. Other times its a male then he is the Rector. They are chosen by God and are called Divine. In the Millenia that we have followed our leader there has only been a handful of times they are genetically related and only once in our recorded history was it a direct lineage of one family. The holy leader leads until death and at that point God sends us a new one. They can be from any race in the Union and have been. We follow them because they know the word of God; however, their word is not exactly final. There is a council that takes her word for the people. While it is blasphemous, I think some councils are able to bend the ear more than others.” He took a sip of the whiskey and savored the taste.

“This is good but it is not going to get one drunk? What is the point? If you can’t experience life at its fullest, it is a shadow of a life.”

Lethe Blue

River scoffed “Seeing as we have technology that can create any era in time and make anything from thin air. We don’t need to be drunk to experience life. If I wanted to I could go surfing on the roughest ocean known to creation. By just hoping off the lift and going to the holodeck. You’ll get to see them in action when we give you our demonstration.” she said her tone amused. River had found it funny since her first encounter with the elders that they claimed to be the saviours of the galaxy. But something as simple as a holodeck or a transporter baffled them.

But it also gave river comfort knowing that in same areas their technology out paced and out classed the union and that would be vital in a war.

“If you need Alcohol to live a full life. I’m guessing life in the union is very regimented and strict. Must be tough. especially if a council of certain types gets in. The types that see anything not in the holly scripture as evil and a sin.” River said her tone more clam and contemplative.

Mar. capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“I would counter that point and say why are you living a life of false experiences and a completely governed life without the chance to learn from one’s mistakes. Take alcohol. While it can create a massive hangover and encourage bad decisions, it teaches you limits. What you can and can’t drink to do A or B. Your holograms do sound intriguing. We also have hologram technology,” he activated a small button on his wrist and an image appeared of what one might assume was his family. A woman holding a small child in a portrait type pose. It was clear enough but covered in a slightly bluish haze. “Until I see it I can not say whether or not your technology is better than ours however holograms are fake.” Running his hand through it, the image crackled and broke up with each pass of his hand. “If you do have holograms that make me imagine I am at home holding my loved one how is it not just a false image of life. It is a program written presumably by a machine that can only take info and predict what you tell it. If I could walk into a room and find my family,” he deactivated his hologram, “she will either hug me, kiss me, hit me, curse me, or tell me to leave. What it can’t do it be that expereince in reality. It is a set of predetermined factors but not living. If I choose to swim will it hold the excitement of being eaten by a shark? If I fall do I get hurt or do I just blink my eyes and that sensation passes too? This is a life of false living where one can be woefully unprepared for the harshness the universe can dole out.”

Lethe Blue

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“If you turn the safeties off sure. Without them a holographic bullet could kill you. They have come in handy in star fleets past. Lure an enemy to holodeck turn the safeties off, seal the room then light them up. There is no escape and in the end no hope. Imagine being trapped in labyrinth that someone else controls with absolute power.” River said her tone drifting off for a moment.

“Luckily there are few who would do such a thing. But I’m getting off track. To answer you’re question as to how real a holodeck is, the truth is it can be as real as you want it to be. After all there are several citizens of the federation who are photonic beings.” she added after a short pause.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“Can I get a tour?” Every civilization had technology that was unique to them. Each one, once assimilated into the Union, had made it invincible. The idea that a hologram could kill you had his mind reeling. Technology like that could alter perceptions of reality and change a battle in ways too numerous to count.

Lethe Blue

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River half smiled “Of course. That is where the demonstration is going to take place. So you’ll get a good idea has to what our holodecks can do. The holodecks are a perfect training ground. I can programme them to recreate any scenario at any difficulty.” She said as she went to stand up.

“Holodeck,” he repeated the name as Lethe followed Styxx in rising. “You have a room for a hologram?” The hologram technology of the Galactic Union was impressive by most standards. It allowed them to transmit full images allowing for face to face communication across the vastness of space. They also used it for training but for only the youngest in the Union because swinging a weapon at a hologram meant it passed right through them. It helped with practicing form but little else in combat. Styxx’s comment about it being a perfect training ground piqued his interest and he freely let it show.

“It’s the perfect place where my Marines can train without endangering any other part of the ship. And seeing as I can recreate any weapon in our arsenal it means we can practice mortar drills, long range snipping and so on.” she added as she stood above Lethe “We can bring the demonstration forward if you’re ega to see our holodecks.” she said seeing what Lethe wanted to do.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“Okay,” Lethe said struggling to keep the disbelief out of his tone. It was not meant to be arrogant but more almost too fantastical to accept. Light blocks coming at you did help hone initial reflexes but without any real explosions, it was all smoke and mirrors. On the other hand, if this was how they trained their troops, they the Federation would be woefully unprepared for Union troops. His interest in the holodecks waffled between genuine curiosity and intell on how they trained. “Maybe if you permit me, I can run through your training program on the most basic level of course.” Lethe was not here to show off but that didn’t mean he wanted to sit around and sip tea like the linguistics and diplomatic teams were doing. He and Styxx had a surface level connection based on physical activity due to their jobs. He didn’t know exactly what the scope was of the Marines, he knew it was not sitting around debating combat. The toned bodies, highly trained reflexes, and keen eye for detail told Lethe that these people were lethal weapons and only needed a target and command to strike.

“Lead the way,” he said with a gesture to Styxx.

Lethe Blue

OOC: Sorry I was on vacation last week. Great posts by the way. ~ Kate

River nodded and the group left marine country. It was short turbulent ride to their destination and as they arrive River stepped out first. “We’ll start with something small and simple, by our tech standard then we can go into more complex things” she said as she checked to see if the deck was in use and then put in a handful of codes. After a few moments the door opened and a soft warm light shone through.

“After you” she said gesturing to Lethe.

As the door opened, Lethe looked in and looked around. His first impression was that the space was a nice place for people to hang out on the ship. They had similar spaces on their ships; and yet something pulled at the back of his mind. The dimensions of what he was seeing did not match up with his mental schematics of the USS Atlantis. This space felt enormous. It stretched as far as the eye could see and had elements that did not make sense the more he thought about it. The trees had to be double if not triple digits in feet height. The water had to be the same given the small boats and people splashing at the shore. Maybe the room encompassed several floors but that would be a highly inefficient use of space. Casually he glanced to his right before stepping in. He had little to no real knowledge about this ship or its layout except that most ships had a standard layout with areas that were more protected and other areas that were more expendable. In this corridor there were several other doorways that looked like the one that was opened. The problem was the door next to this one was only about a meter and a half away.

As soon as he stepped in Lethe would be confronted with a beautiful park, its soft green grass smelling of apple and the shine of a perfectly clear and blue lake shimmered in the distance. Small shapes bobbed on the lake to far to make out fully but it was clear they where little boats.

Stepping into the room, Lethe looked to the right and there was nothing. In fact there was no way there could be a door next to this in the space where outside the room, there was one. Pulling his head back out, Lethe scanned the hallway again just to make sure he didn’t see something wrong. Nope there is a door there, he confirmed to himself mentally.

The smell of apple and flowers and cool crisp water would fill his nose as a light cool breeze caressed his face. The sounds of children laughing and bird song drifted on the breeze. The soft decorative gravel path crunched under his boot and he would feel it give as if he was walking on the really thing. Moving further in Lethe would see families having picnics and taking slow walks in the good weather. The Sun was warm but not oppressively so making the whole are feel warm and comforting, several comfy looking benches where also scattered about.

In the sky flocks of Birds each a different kind flew past, and a group of brightly coloured Kites swayed in the breeze, their young pilots laughing to each other as they saw who could get there’s the highest.

Moving fully into the space, he inhaled deeply. The scents of a natural park were all there that one expected. The wet, earth smell of grass and trees, the delicate florals of fruits and flowers along with the non describable scent of just being outdoors that wafted in the air. Inhaling deeply, he savored the scent and had a pang of nostalgia for his own homeworld.

“Welcome to the Azure park on the planet Acheron” River said happily but a air of sadness had crept into her voice “So what do you think?” she asked.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

“I’m impressed,” he replied honestly. He did not hide his surprise at the space he was seeing. “Am I free to explore,” he asked. Since Styxx brought him here and with civilians, he did not think it was an issue. So far Styxx appeared on the level. The woman did not appear to want to play games or participate in some sort of trickery. He was shocked that Styxx took him to such a public place when they said they were going to share holo projection technology but if the woman wanted to stop here first then so be it. There was no doubt that their first experience with the Elders was less than ideal. At least this officer appeared to be slightly open minded about the Union as a group of people.

“By all means” River said more relaxed then she had been previously

Moving through the space, Lethe moved into the large grassy area and looked around. Suddenly a stray ball came barreling at Lethe’s head. His instincts were rapid and immediate. Raising his hand, he caught the ball before it impacted the side of his head. Anyone watching the event would easily observe how highly tuned his reflexes and senses were. Much like Styxx, they were honed to a precision useful in combat. The ball made a crisp smacking sound against his skin. Lethe felt the burn of the ball impacting his palm. Turning towards the direction the ball came, Lethe Blue saw a small child about seven or eight rapidly running towards him.

River watched as Lethe caught the ball and mad a note of his reflexes. She also noted how addressed the child that had come over.

“Sorry,” the kids mumbled out a rapid apology. Lethe let the kids body language and words sink in. There was nothing timid or wary about the child which surprised Lethe. He was definitely not dressed like an officer on the ship nor the civilian like clothes the other adults were wearing.

Dropping to one knee, Lethe held the ball out. “This your ball,” he asked the kid.

“Yeah,” he said shifting his weight some and yanking at his pants which looked to be sliding down slightly.

“Go back,” Lethe stated and slowly stood lifting the ball as if he were to throw it. The kid eager began running back into the field. When he got a small distance away, Lethe lobbed it in a soft angle up so it would be an easy catch.

“Thanks mister,” the kid yelled over his shoulder before running back to play with his group of friends. Lethe watch him walk off and decided on a new course of action. Moving to a group of people over at the pond, he stood there for a moment before asking for one of the beverages they were drinking. Happily enough, they cracked open a box and handed him a bottle. Twisting off the top, Lethe didn’t pause and took a long swig. The beverage was an ale of some sort. It was crisp, refreshing, and reminded him of back home.

“Fish biting,” he asked the men with the poles.

“No but any time you can get a pole in the water is a good day is it not,” he joked back and held out his bottle for Lethe to toast. Lethe played the part and toasted the man before turning around sharply to face Styxx.

“What is this place,” he asked the Marine Captain in a firm tone. “This place looks perfect and it is.” Reaching down he fisted a clump of grass and pulled it up by its roots, dirt and all. “Nothing is this perfect. You have been a straight shooter with me since I arrived but this doesn’t make sense. In your Marine country I was targeted like a predator. I can respect that. You need to protect your people. I understand that but what it all this smoke and mirrors. Why did you bring me to a place filled with civilians? Don’t get me wrong,” Lethe held up in hands in a very passive gesture. “I am intending no harm and I would not hurt anyone but none of this makes any sense. You said we were going to check out your holograms but you bring me to a public place. What were you expecting? For me to freak out and try a one man take over of the ship?” Without saying a word, Lethe dropped to his knees and put his hands behind his head assuming the position security oficers requested when arresting someone. If this was some sort of set up by these aliens, he was not going to be the one person to start an intergalactic war. “I request you contact my leadership.” Lethe’s surrender was mostly just for show. He had his armor and could probably get out of any situation he was placed in but his orders were clear when he left the Redemption. Learn about this crew and do not instigate conflict.

Lethe Blue

River laughed clearly very amused “Get up. warrior. Or do you want everyone to know you surrendered to a a child’s ghost”

Lethe looked at Styxx with a confused expression. Nothing about the woman’s demeanor or tone suggested deception but she was finding humor in the situation. Styxx was intelligent and a highly capable leader so the thoughts tumbled in rapid succession around his mind as to where the humor in his surrender was coming.

She said pausing for a moment raising her arms. “Computer end programme” she said as the scene fadeded away and a room with all black sides broken up only by orange line that formed a grid shape though out the room.

The room did not just change visually. Everything about the space vanished. The sights, the smells, the sounds: It was all gone and replaced with black walls with orange lines. Lethe had been on edge but the professional warmth of the meeting had let him let his guard down. Bringing his hands down, Lethe lifted his arms and prepped his weapons. It would be a bloodbath and not for the Atlantis crew. He could put up his armor but he had been given strict orders not to. If there was aggression by this crew, his orders were to defend as best as possible but no bloodshed. This raising of his arms was just bravado. If there was an aggression by this crew, Lethe Blue’s only option was fighting it out. Since there was only one of him and multiple Marines with Styxx, he was going to be taken down. “If you were taking me to the brig why the charade?”

“Welcome to the holodeck. Everything you just saw was a holographic simulation. A very basic one by our standards.” River said as she walked round Lethe.

Lethe lowered his arms but kept his defensive posture. If he needed defend himself he still could but again the option would probably be Lethe zero and Marines ten. “Wait are you saying this was all just a hologram? The lake, the people…I could feel the grass and smell the earth.” The scents could be plumbed in through air filters but the physical sensations were much harder to explain.

“In here like I said before I can make anything and anywhere exist in this room. But perhaps that was a bit much. Maybe you would like to talk somewhere more familiar” she added lowering her arms.

Lethe did not move but relaxed his posture more. Styxx was honorable. Even if she wanted to blow him full of holes, apparently she had orders on some level that stated not to kill him too. He had trusted the woman this far and was willing to do so longer. While they were not friends or enemy combatants, there was an inexplicable truce between them right now.

=^= Computer activate programme Styxx theta 2=^= As River spoke the room shifted and soon the interior of a galactic union ship materialised around them. The recreation was a Faithfull as it could be. The hall way wall slipped to gently to the floor in it characteristic soft silvers and greys. Display showed the galactic union language and Lethe would recognise standard hall markings and technology. The familiar hums and buzzes of a union ship would drift into Lethes ears right down to muffled chatter coming form an adjacent room. If he didn’t know better he would think he was actually back in the fleet.

Lethe heard a white noise filling his ears and if Styxx was speaking, Lethe did not hear a word as he glanced around the space. The detail of the hologram were eerily accurate. So much so it could have been considered espionage. He rose and slowly looked around. Taking a step forward, he no longer worried about be shot by the Marines as he placed a palm on one of the walls and followed it to a corner. Looking up, he could read the print on the walls. It was correct but only slightly grammatically correct. The kind of grammatical error that one might not notice immediately but have a nagging suspicion that something was off even if you didn’t immediately place it.

“Is this a more comforting setting or would you like to see something else?” River asked her tone genuine and thoughtful, the last thing she anted was for Lethe to have break down and charge into something.

Mar. Capt Styxx (Marine OIC)

He did not deny his astonishment at the hologram nor try to even cover it up. Doing so would be an insult to both his and Styxx’s intelligent. The woman knew exactly what she showed him and his reaction showed how accurate it was. “It is pretty damn perfect except for the grammar,” he pointed to the writing. “It says Level of 12. Your program is too accurate to make such a sloppy mistake so I am going to hypothesize that it was a programming error.” Placing his finger over a few symbols, he showed the mistake on the writing.

Dropping his hand, Lethe rubbed his chin. “Tactically this was to show us you have an advantage so I am going to extend the peace wine too. I assume that they rest of my counterparts will come see these holodecks too. I don’t care if you show them whatever you want but lock this up and close this program down after me. Show no one. Not even the Chancellor.” His message was cryptic but clear. For some reason, Lethe wanted to exclude his people from the knowledge of the ships hologram of their ships. He set a deathly serious gaze on Styxx. It was not to intimidate but a clear warning.

Walking around the space, Lethe posed a question. “We have scanned your ship. We have scanned the area and based on your maximum speed of travel, no one is coming to help you.” Lethe was not trying to threaten Styxx but stating facts both of the crew knew but had not stated out loud. “We are a surprise to you so this,” he gestured around, “was an inside job. It was Patron Novar.” His statement was a rhetorical one. The Elders that had arrived were psychopathic crackpots that were so engrained in religion, they could see nothing else. The child probably did this to create some psychological buffer to the desperation and isolation she felt. This was not necessarily damning to the Union but the realism to the program would make a assault on the ship if needed in the future next to impossible. As Styxx stated earlier, how does one fight a ghost.

“What else did she show you?” There were people on this Union ships that would ignore the age of the Patron and only judge her on her acts. That was far above his paygrade but that also meant Blue did not need to serve the girl on platter to the adjucators.

Lethe Blue

OOC: Fabulous post. I will run with whatever you do or create if you chose that route. ~ Kate

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