Posted by Lieutenant Quinn Emery Kindle (Chief Medical Officer) in Side Sim - They Won’t Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (Open to Anyone)

Posted by Lieutenant Xam Ra’Ti (Tactical Officer) in Side Sim - They Won’t Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (Open to Anyone)

Posted by Captain Rende Asam (Commanding Officer) in Side Sim - They Won’t Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (Open to Anyone)
Posted by… suppressed (16) by the Post Ghost! 👻

The Sentinel was in orbit around one of the resort moons of Risa. A long-awaited shore leave was available to all members of the crew, and Xam was one of the first off the ship. He had already reserved a room at Three Lakes Lodge and Resort, one of the more off-the-beaten-path facilities that catered to some of the more ‘eclectic’ (read ‘shady’) visitors that came to the pleasure planet. Xam had stayed there a number of times, and always found it enjoyable.

He arrived at the desk and smiled at the receptionist. “Hey. Ra’Ti, reservation for one. I’d like a view of the third lake’s waterfall if I could get it.” The receptionist, a beautiful Risian woman of indeterminate age, smiled and said “Of course, sir. As one of our repeat customers, we strive to make your stay as nice as possible.” She gave him a slight grin as she looked back down at her computer display. “We do have a room with a waterfall view available, sir. But it would be an upgrade from your reservation. Is that acceptable?” Xam shrugged and said “Sure, why not? Not all the time I get to kick back for a week and relax. Might as well go all-out.” He paid the difference and she said “Excellent. You are all set, sir. If you need anything when you arrive at your room, simply call down. i will be more than happy to assist.” Xam grinned and said “You’ll be the first one I call.” and she blushed slightly as the Sentinel’s Tactical Officer turned and made his way to the fifteenth floor, lake side.

Ra’Ti, Tactical

Rende was ready for a good rest. The whole crew needed it. Her XO and yeoman more than anyone after all the extra work they had taken on. When Rende mentioned it to both of them, separately, they balked and said they preferred to stay on the ship. She had to actually order them to take leave. She appreciated the dedication, but they needed to recharge whether they wanted to or not.

Rende walked into the Three Lakes and breathed in deeply. This was place was shady, and the kind of people Rende understood and could respect to various degrees.
She wasn’t likely to be bothered here, either. She’d been here many times, though it had been long enough no one would remember her. Memories flooded her of the last time she and Eldorin had been there. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Hello, Asam.” The woman nodded and looked up the reservation, “Ah yes, you requested the suite on the 20th floor, but it had to be closed for … renovations. But we have placed you in the suite on the fifteenth floor. Same layout and view. Will that be acceptable?” It wasn’t a big deal for Rende, probably for the best anyway. She could tell from the woman’s voice something unexpected had happened. “Yes that’s fine.
Thank you.” Rende took the key pass and then the lift to the floor.

Asam, CO

Xam had dropped his bag and looked around the room, smiling. It was a welcome change from the stale, recycled air of the ship. He unpacked and put away clothes and toiletries, splashed some cold water on his face, and then walked out into the room.

It was a single room with a large bed and a small couch with a table. A vid screen faced the foot of the bed, and two large French doors separated the room form the balcony overlooking the lake. Xam grinned and walked to the doors, swinging them open into the room and stepping out on the balcony. Walls separated the balcony form the neighboring rooms, but as he leaned on the rail and looked out over the spectacular view, he could see the balconies on either side of him.

Ra’Ti, Tactical

The woman at the desk had been right, it was exactly the same as the suite she had requested. Rende made sure the latch secured behind her and pulled a small device out of the side pocket of her bag and set it against the door and frame and activated it. She wasn’t expecting though let, but she had learned long ago to never take it for granted. Hence, Eldorin’s little door guard.

She made her way into the king sized bedroom, tossing her rucksack on the bed. She peeled herself out of the mandatory uniform and clunky but sensible boots. She slipped on a light weight Groshik cotton robe and soft plain saddles. The robe had been an extravagant gift from Eldorin before they had returned to Earth.

Rende was a hard woman: beautiful, fit, toned, smart, and deadly. She was a fighter that stayed to a personal code. However, she was still a woman. She looked to be in her mid maybe late 30s though she was really 403. She pulled the pins out of her hair. It was longer than she kept it when she was with the MACOs, shorter than when Tabris was a child.

Tabris

Her son. Their dear beloved son. They had thought Earth was a refuge, but it had taken him from them. She ached at his loss every day. She ached for El too. He was alive and well, but she hated they were fighting, and there was very little she could do about it. She should really finish that letter. She walked out the balcony doors and folded her arms over the railing. She leaned out breathing deeply of the moist air and green plants and rich soil around the resort.

Asam, CO

“What, you couldn’t get enough of me on the ship?” a sarcastic but familiar voice said from her right. There, leaning against the railing of the adjacent balcony, was her Tactical officer and all-around problem child Xam Ra’Ti. He grinned at her, his white mustache blowing in the soft breeze. There was no way that a newly minted Lieutenant should be able to garner a room at this place… but then again, Ra’Ti did have a history. One that Asam knew of slightly. Her years of living had surely taught her that a file is only as complete as the person filling it out wanted it to be. And while Xam’s record had some definite ‘color’ to it… there was probably a whole lot more to her Tactical Officer than was in the file. Especially considering his presence at the Three Lakes Lodge. “I commend you on your choice of hotel, Captain. Not many know about this place.”

Ra’Ti, Tactical

Rende shook her head with a grin. ” Oh this place and I have a long history, Xam.” The stress on the word long indicated much more than simply familiarity, but history. Rende knew enough to know there was more to her tactical officer than his file showed. Her own inquires outside of Star fleet filled in a bit more, but not enough to be invasive. She wasn’t S31 after all. It was why she had specifically requested his transfer to Sentinel. Of course, she was sure Xam could deduce as much about her as she did of him. He had been around enough, and her presence there, in a suite no less, spoke volumes. Not to mention most people didn’t stay there alone.”And here I thought o one would find me here. Good to know someone knows the idea of a good time.”

Asam, CO

Xam smiled and turned to look at the lake, the hundreds of meters high waterfall on the far side. “Oh… a good time I am familiar with, Skipper.” and he turned and looked at her. “The question is how much of good time are you gonna let me have?” and he laughed. “So in your ‘history’ with this place… you ever find the time to jump the waterfall? Or were you… otherwise occupied?” he asked with a wicked grin. He knew as well as she that this wasn’t the typical place for a single individual to stay. And those that did come alone didn’t tend to stay that way too long.

Rende laughed heartily and stared at the waterfall. “Depends on which visit. I have jumped, been otherwise occupied, and done both.” She grinned wickedly, “What you do on your leave time is none of my concern. Enjoy.”

He looked back across the lake and said “I was planning on heading down to the lakeside bar in a few for a drink or ten.” and he looked back at her. “Wanna come? They make a wicked Thelosian Snobwball.”

Ra’Ti, Tactical

“Now there’s one I haven’t tried. You sure you wanna drink with your Captain, Lt? It could certainly ensure you stay alone for the duration of your leave.”

Asam, CO

Xam looked at her for a long moment and then grinned and said “Maybe it will… maybe it won’t. Ya never know, Cap. Meet you in the hall in five.” and he disappeared from sight.

It was just under five minutes later when Xam- now wearing khaki-colored linen pants, a light blue linen shirt ,and a pair of sandals- appeared in the hallway. He made sure he had his key card and shut the door, making sure it locked behind him.

Xam

Rende shook her head and took a moment to stare across the lake for another long moment. Then she turned and closed the door, securing it with another of Eldorin’s little surprises. She was wearing a teal single shoulder ruched top with soft gray gypsie pants, along with her sandals. She closed the door behind her ensuring the lock and personal alarm. The key card disappeared into a hidden pocket.

She gave Xam a curious once over, “You look like you would fit right in on a Caribbean beach.”

Asam, CO

Xam smiled as he looked her unabashedly up and down before saying “And you look like you’d be perfectly at home lounging on the deck of a sea-going yacht. My kinda environment.” and he offered her his arm.

“Given the right waters and the right captain, I would agree with you.” She slipped her hand onto his arm. It struck her as a very old world gesture. One that seemed universal across species, or perhaps one that was just willingly acquired.

The trip to the lake side was quick, and soon they were seated in side by side overstuffed lounge chairs facing the lake. A gentle breeze blew off the water, cooling the air around them. On the small table between them sat two large glasses, each with a piece of tropical fruit garnishing the rims and whisps of white vapor drifting off the top. As they reclined, Xam turned and picked up his drink and looked at Asam. “To a restful and relaxing vacation… Rende.” and he smiled at her.

Xam

Her eyes twinkled. He was a charmer when he wanted to be. Had she expected less? She supposed not. She lifted her drink and tipped it slightly towards him, “One with plenty of fun and no work.” She tipped the glass against her lips, letting the white Vapor pour and billow around as she sipped. She nodded appreciatively.

Asam, CO

“Thought you might like that.” Xam said as he raised his own glass and took a drink. He looked out over the lake and smiled. “You know, if I had had my way back in the day… I always thought about retiring here.” He pointed up at the far side of the lake, up past the dizzying height of the sheer cliffs and the mist from the tumbling cascade of water. “Up there. Past the edge of the cliffs and up the river about three kilometers. Thats where the forest starts. And I found a clearing that butts up against some small cliffs. I bought the land; but then I had my ‘career change’. I wonder if I’ll ever be able to build on it.” he asked, more to himself than anyone else, and then took a drink. He looked back at Rende and said “And careful… these will sneak up on you if you aren’t careful.”

Xam

“I hope it does. It’s been a really long time since anything or anyone snuck up on me.” She took another sip, but slightly smaller. “You should look into building while you are here. It’s not like you have to be here while the work is done. Then do it in small increments. Or if working with your hands is something you enjoy, you could work a little every time you come on shore leave. Nothing is impossible. If it is something you want, then you should do it.”

Asam, CO

Xam took a drink, a wicked smile crossing his face. “Now now.... talk like that might lead us into strange and uncharted waters.” and he chuckled. He turned to her, about to say something else, when a shadow fell across them. Actually… shadows.

Rende looked up and though her body didn’t move there was a subtle change to her. While their attention was on Xam she reached slowly into her pocket and palmed a small controller into her lap. She could work the controls in her sleep.

“Well well well… look who we have here, boys?” a deep voice said. The speaker was a half-Klingon, half-human male with broad shoulders and nasty looking scar running across his throat and a sadistic grin on his face. Behind him stood two Naussicans and an Orion. Xam looked up and squinted. “Is that… is that Gredlin the Red I see standing here? Huh, how about that? I heard you were dead.” The towering figure gritted his teeth and leaned down. “Thats because you cut my fu<&ing throat, you backstabbing targ dump!” he yelled, spittle flying from his mouth and onto Xam’s cheek. Xam took a breath and reached up, flicking the liquid off his cheek and wiping his finger on the chair arm. “Well, obviously I didn’t mean it, Gred ‘ol boy… I left your head still attached, right?” Gredlin roared in anger and his fist rose and then smashed into the Xam’s chair, sending bits flying in all directions.

Rende didn’t even flinch. After a moment she picked a small wood chip out of her hair and flicked it toward the wreckage of the chair. The Naussicans were her biggest worry. Their teeth and tusks were vicious and only topped by their over powered and likely to explode disrupters and feriousness. The Orion was big, the half Klingon too, but size wasn’t everything.

But Xam wasn’t in his chair. Faster than anyone could see, he was now on his feet and standing about ten feet away, grinning. He cast a glance at Rende and made a subtle motion with his hand. Get away it said. Gredlin caught the look and cast a glance at Asam. “This your woman, Rat-tee?” he said, purposefully butchering Xam’s name into something he thought was insulting. “Maybe once I’m done with you, I can show her how we treat a mutineer’s toy. Hmmm?” Xam’s eyes narrowed and his entire demeanor changed in a moment. No longer was he the grinning, sarcastic scoundrel. Now he seemed to be something far more… predatory. Gredlin was licking his grinning lips at Asam, but the Naussicans and the Orion caught the shift. The Orion said “Uh, Cap’n? I don’t think that’s such a good idea…”

Ra’Ti

Rende raised her brows. She looked at the two Nausicans and smirked, “Grr’k hock njeb.” They looked at her perplexed for a half second before there was a high powered whistling sound and loud thanks as two darts embedded in their necks. “Now before you two move, I suggest that you take a good long look at your chests.” Where two targeting lasers were focused. “The darts were a warning.” She rose slowly to her feet and sauntered over to Xam. “It would be amusing to see you try. I would very much enjoy inflicti g the dishonor I gave sub-General Ilhek” who had died a very horrible death during the Earrh-Romulan war, “upon you.” Oh of course they wouldn’t believe it, and then was giving info away, but oh well. In her other hand appeared a projectile fire arm. Rende was an excellent shot.

Asam, CO

Xam didn’t flinch and his demeanor stayed the same. “Gredlin doesn’t bother with things like honor, sweets.” Xam said, he eyes wholly focused on the half-Klingon. “He is allllll about the cash. Ain’t that right? Oh, don’t bother to answer. See, we knew you were here, Gred. And a few months ago, we decided that you were too much of a loose end. I mean, I got the cargo and you got squat.... except that nifty necklace, of course.” Gredlin growled and started to take a step forward, but Xam’s arm jerked and suddenly there was a rather wicked looking disruptor in his hand and aimed at Gredlin. He made a task tsk tsk sound. “Now now… you know yiu aren’t fast enough. And you know I’d as soon kill you as look at you. But…” and he cast a glance at Asam, “… I have a new lease on life, and part of that is not committing acts of wanton murder on a whim. Now, don’t take that as me saying I won’t kill you. I absolutely will. Your man Durh can attest to that.” The Orion took a breath. “Didn’t think you’d recognize me, Captain.” he said somewhat softly. Xam said “I remember all of my crew… especially when they try to get me killed.” The Orion gulped. “But… I’m willing to let that debt slide if you take care of this problem here, Durh. Clean slate. All you have to do is get Gredlin here out of my face and make sure I never have to smell him again. What do you say?” The Orion looked at Xam, then Gredlin’s back, then the two Naussicans. He slowly reached into his belt and drew his disruptor. “Deal.” he said, and before Gredlin could protest, a single bolt of sickly yellow energy shot from the barrel of Durh’s pistol and hit Gredlin square in the back, and the massive pirate dropped to the ground… dead.

That kind of honor wasn’t the type Rende was thinking about. Her aim was much lower than his head or heart. The hammer on the classic looking pistol clicked back as Gredlin tried to reach for his own weapon. In truth Rende looked bored. She saw the agreement on Durh’s face and once Gred was dead and the disruptor holsters, the red laser sights disappeared.

Xam looked at Durh and said “Nicely done. Are we square?”, his pistol still leveled at where Gredlin had been standing. The Orion slowly holstered his weapon and said “Aye, Captain. I’m good if you are.” Xam’s smile snapp3d back into place and he said “Perfect! Now if you don’t mind, I think Inowe my date a nice meal after… well… all this.” The disruptor disappered and he looked at Rende. “I’m thinking seafood. What about you?” and he, for the second time, offered her his arm.

Ra’Ti

“Seafood sounds lovely. No one has seafood quite like Risa.” She slipped her hand onto his arm, released the hammer of the gun and it disappeared. She paused and turned to look at the Naussicans. “Oh Durh, you’ll need help with them,” and they collapsed as the sedative hit them all at once. “Buggers take forever to go down.”

Asam

Xam led Rende past the bar and said “Sorry about the mess. Charge it to his room.” and he jerked a thumb at Durh. He then walked Rende down to the lake and along the water. “You know, all these people that say ‘Your past can no longer hurt you.’ obviously never had to deal with psychotic half Klingons and mutineers.” Their direction put them on a wide stone path that meandered along the lake shore.

Xam

Rende’s eyes followed the path, another time and a past that wouldn’t let go. The path was overgrown and more a animal track then. “People who say that, don’t have a past… Captain.” She grinned on the last. “And good for them. They say such things because it eases their own emotions, so they don’t have to think about what upsets them.”

Rende

Xam laughedvat the title. “No no no… only one Captain here; and she is by far the most deserving of the title.” and he looked at her and grinned. “And fhe hottest looking of everyone here, as well.” and he looked back forward. “And that’s saying something… I’m absolutely smoking.”

Rende laughed and shook her head. “So smoking you keep that up you might set things on fire.” Her gaze wandered across the lake. “If that little incident is any indication, I am no more deserving of the title than anyone else.”

The path turned gradually around the lake’s edge and a building came into view. It was a rustic looking structure with large windows and a large deck overlooking the lake. Xam led them inside, still holding Rende’s hand on his arm, and walked them towards a single figure in a Tuxedo standing at a podium. The figure, a Bolian male, raised his head and a look of shock crossed his face followed by a large grin.

“Master Jo’naly! Welcome back, sir! It has been far too long!” Xam smiled and said “Joln, so good to see you.” and he shook the maitre’d’s hand. “I don’t suppose the usual table is open, is it?” Joln raised a finger and said “No, but if you can wait ten minutes, I can ensure you get it.” Xam nodded and said “Works for me.” and Joln hurried away. Xam looked at Rende and said “You been here before?”

Xam

“Hmmm,” she looked out the large windows, “I have been to this spot, but not this establishment. Though I have seen it in passing, but never had the opportunity.”

Rende

Xam nodded. “Best seafood on the moon. And I did the chef a favor back in the day, so hopefully we can get the tab-” and he was cut off as the Bolian returned. “Madame. Sir. Right this way.” He walked them through the restaurant towards the doors to the outside patio area. As theyvwalked through, a few heads turned. Most were for Rende, but a few were looking at Xam with both surprise and not a little animosity.

Rende filled the details away, giving those harboring animosity long, appraising, and unconcerned stares, and ignoring the looks she herself drew.

As the exited, the maitre’d turned to his left and took them to a spiral staircase. Walking them up, they arrived on a small, flat area built onto the roof that held three small tables; all overlooking the lake. As the sun was setting, the area was lit by soft lights along the railing and hurricane lamps on the table. Xam pulled out Rende’s chair and pushed it in slightly as she sat before taking his own seat.

She climbed the stairs with ease and paused at the top, just out of the way to take in the view. It was stunning. Reminded her of Eravel. She moved over to the table and sat as he held her chair. “Thank you, Jo’naly.”

The maitre’d said “Your server is Dominique, ans she will be right with you. Are you celebrating anything special this evening?” Xam grinned at Rende and said “Yes… our first date. I actually just met her at the lodge.” Joln smiled and looked at Rende. “You are in good hands, Madame. Master Jo’naly is a fr8end of the restaurant; I assure you tonight will be memorable.” He bowed slightly and smiled at Xam and walked away and down the stairs. Xam looked at Rende and grinned wickedly. “I bet you are wishing you’d gone planet-side now, huh?” and he chuckled.

Xam

Oh he was charming and well mannered. Rakes tended to be. She leaned back in her seat. “Even if I did wish it, and I don’t, I could not. I have a lifetime ban from the planet. Luckily it does not extend to the moons.”

Rende

Xam’s eyebrows arched slightly in surprise. “Lifetime ban, eh? That’s impressive. Do tell, won’t you? Or is it a story best shared with a good drink?” As if on cue, a human woman appeared and smiled at both Rende and Xam. “Good evening. Welcome back, Master Jo’naly. We are pleased to have you dining with us again.” Xam inclined his head and said “The pleasure is mine, of course.” and he gave her a warp-core dazzling smile. She smiled back and flushed slightly, and then looked at Rende. “Would Madame care for a drink? We have a fully stocked bar as well as a wine cellar that rivals most.”

Xam

Oh dear. She may have to find a way to allow that poor woman a chance to let the fantasies obviously tripping through her head to happen if Xam was so inclined. The tone of the woman’s voice certainly indicated how she felt about ‘Jo’naly’ and in opposition, Rende. “I will have a Passion Fruit Orb.” It was a specialty to Risa and not available anywhere else. And like everything on Risa it was expertly crafted to bring pleasure. In this case to the tastebuds, but claimed aphrodisiacal properties. Though Rende couldn’t vouch for such.

Rende

“Chateu Lafite. Fifty-five, please. Oh, and could we please have two dozen oysters. Thank you, Dominique.” Xam said and she turned and left the patio. Xam looked at Rende and said “So? Tell me about this life-time ban of yours.”

Xam

“Oh well, first you have to understand, I have not always been the model officer you see before you. Back then, the idea of me even cooperating with a formal military service was laughable. I was quite sure of my own superiority, wisdom, and infallibility. I was always looking for the next fight, the next perceived wrong that needed righting in the way I thought was best. It didn’t help that up to that date, I’d never been wrong.” Rende laughed but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “So we’d just come off a long campaign and decided we deserved to live it up a little and came to Risa. Well, as I said, I was always looking for trouble, and I found it, or it found me. Always hard to tell in those situations. Long story short there was a shady group trying to take advantage of the Risian people and were sabotaging their environmental controls in order to exploit them. So we decided to set a trap and catch them. Well in the end, the environmental control station was in shambles, half rubble. My reasoning was, it was okay because the money they would save on upkeep, health, lack of environmental disasters would be huge once the fake corporation was gone. I was right, but we’ll just say the government wasn’t too pleased. No one got hurt, well no one who mattered and they did save money and resources, and finished ahead of schedule, but they decided I was a menace…so here we are.”

Rende

Bump

Xam chuckled and shook his head, his mustache swaying softly. “Seems like some don’t know how to deal with trouble. Unfortunately, for you and me both, those ‘somes’ always seem to be in pistons to make decisions they really shouldn’t be making.” Dominique returned with drinks and Xam lifted his glass to Rende. “To those of us who understand when to play nice… and when not to.” he said with a grin.

Rende raised her glass with a knowing smirk. “Well when they can’t handle it, it makes for well paid work.” She took a long pull from her drink and nodded in appreciation.

Xam was quiet a moment, then took a dr8nk and leaned forward. “So. How much did they really tell you about me?” he asked directly.

Ra’Ti, Tactical

“Mmmm…not much. Your file was blank enough to make me curious and know there was more than the cleaned up version. Your scores were high enough and your methods unorthodox enough to know you had more experience than listed.”

Rende

Xam shook his head derisively. “I swear… I dunno if they are ashamed of my past and that I actually made it into the Fleet; or if they are keeping it under wraps so when something goes sideways they can blame me for it.” He took a breath, took a drink, and then looked at Rende and said “Okay. Tell me how much you know about piracy and pirate activity in the Segund Cluster and if you ever heard of the pirate ship Ebony Rain.”

Xam

Rende began to laugh hard. She set her glass down before the drink spilled out of it. She continued to laugh until tears ran down her cheeks. “Oh… hew… uhhh… I … I do,” she took a deep breath, “Forgive me Jo’naly. It’s just… well…” She chuckled again, “What I know about and my personal experiences with piracy would fill a 24 volume encyclopedia. Probably more.” Oh the stories she could tell. “As for the Ebony Rain, we had Security briefings about it frequently. The Dublin never encountered her. We were close but outside their normal known territory. Viscous and tactically brilliant. Created a lot of havoc and scared a lot of people. Based on the reports I saw, I would say they made quite the rich life style for themselves when they disappeared. Assuming they got away and didn’t end up on the other end of someone’s revenge phaser shot.” She grinned wickedly. “In my younger days I would have liked to have tested the odds with them.”

Rende

He paused for a moment and then said “The Ebony Rain was a refitted and heavily modified Spruance-class heavy cruiser captained by one Xam Ra’Ti. The ship and crew were responsible for numerous acts of piracy, theft, assault, smuggling of controlled substances, trespassing, and- my own personal favorite- kidnapping with intent to wed. Don’t ask, it is a very long story.” and he chuckled. “Ra’Ti had a price on his head in numerous systems, and even had a warrant issued by Federation Security. But then, one day…poof.” and he kissed his fingertips and blew on them as they spread out. “Gone like a ghost. Now his old man was caught and arrested. He’s doing time in a Federation Penal colony. But rumor has it he cut a deal with the Federation and they let his son go… under certain conditions of course. But the ship? The Ebony Rain? It hasn’t been seen to this very day. Lotta folks looking for it. They think it has Ra’Ti’s take stashed away on it. Ra’Ti’s name has popped up here and there, mostly attached to Star Fleet records. But everyone knows that Star Fleet, being the fine upstanding organization that they are, would never stoop to bringing in a pirate… right?” He grinned and took a drink, his eyes never leaving hers.

‘Jo’naly’

Rende starred back into his gaze, laughter dancing there. “Oh well, that’s too bad. Ra’Ti is a person I would be very interested to meet. He and I share a lot in common. Good pirates never disappear. Maybe he’ll show up again. I will ask, later, about kidnapping with an intent to wed. Sounds like a good story to have over strong kulaq.” She took a sip of her drink and sighed. “Ever hear of the Star Siren Raiders?”

Rende

‘Jo’naly’s’ eyes flashed and he said “Oh, I have indeed. I made of study of them for… reasons. Not a lot of information about them, though. But they did make a name for themselves.”

‘Jo’naly’

Rende smirked. “Aye they did. The Star Siren Raoders started out as a two person team. They went around offering themselves to whoever the underdog happened to be. They were very good at the help they gave, and without fail chose the right side and always won. It wasn’t just their tactics and equipment they provided. They harried the otherside in piracy tactics. They accumulated people here and there, making a solid team. After awhile they didn’t have to look for work. People sought them out, they even had enough to work for free. In cases where they thought it was deserved. People incorrectly assume their long reign was similar to Earth’s fictional Dread Pirate Roberts. That the leaders retired and passed on the name. Their leader, her husband called her his Star Siren, the others thought it roguishly romantic and adopted the name. The Star Siren’s Raiders.” Rende picked up her glass again taking a long swallow.

Rende

Jo’naly nodded. “I assume that with the ‘incorrect’ assumption, the leadership never changed hands, then?” He thought for a moment and said “Many species live much longer life-spans than humans do, although theirs is the standard for some reason. Vulcans, Deltans, Arkenites to name a few. So there may be more. Possible one of them was running things.”

Jo’naly

“Without doubt. Even longer than most species are aware one can live.” She took another sip and then set the glass down. “Things went well for them for over 2 centuries in total. Though their name wasn’t as well known very early on. Of course nothing lasts forever. They became prideful in their certainty of their correctness. They became comfortable with it. That they always made the right decision, helped those that needed it, that they didn’t need to stop and consider their actions. They were right and for them that was enough to ensure success. Such thinking is always the downfall. They made fatal mistakes and disappeared with their treasure and goods. Scattering to the edges of the quadrants. The leader and her husband settled on a little primitive planet that had barely started to discover the space around their own planet, much less their star system. They had a child and lived there until the planet nearly self destructed. They fought with the idea of how to stop it, to show the people the error of their ways and how to find peace vs choosing the wrong side and making things worse. In the end, they waited too long and the war took the life of their son.”

Rende

OOC: Mind if Marcus gets in on this?

-Kieron-

OOC: I don’t mind!

James

The more the better! Sorry Kieron, I thought I responded.
-Jenn

Xam looked at her and simply nodded. “Tragic. And all-too familiar a story, it’s a shame to say. The only true constant in this universe is that good people pay the price for the egos and selfishness of their leaders.”

Jo’naly

Rende took a long sip of her drink. “It is. Sometimes though, those leaders finally learn their lesson. Others, they lose, but another takes their place and the cycle repeats.” She took another long sip as she stared across the forest. Then she turned her gaze on him. “On to more pleasant topics then, Jo’naly? What are your plans for your time on Risa?”

Rende

“Rest and relaxation.” he replied. “I simply want to take some time and maybe catch up on some reading; maybe catch a show or two. I didn’t plan anything specific. Plans have a way of being… interrupted… and I do so hate it when that happens.” Jo’naly said with a chuckle and then a sip of his wine.

Jo’naly

“I think if my plans were ever not interrupted, I believe I would become paranoid.” Rende laughed at the idea. “However, a lack of plans,” she glanced at him, “can lead to such interesting encounters.”

Rende

“Indeed they can.” he replied. Dominique returned and asked “Are you ready to order?” Jo’naly smiled and said “Lake mussels in red wine for us to share as an appetizer, and some feluk-felak.” He looked at Rende and said “Do you know what you want? Their fresh lake trout is amazing.”

Jo’naly

“Who am I to ignore the recommendation of such an established patron?” Rende grinned at him and then turned it on Dominique. “Well then, I will try the lake trout then if you have it today. If not Terellian pheasant, please.” No one within the Federation would have heard of it, but Risa catered to everyone, and Rende had been around.

Rende

Dominique smiled and looked at Jo’naly who said “Trout, please. With fingerling potatoes and gagh.” She nodded and walked away and Jo’naly looked at Rende. “You ever had any dealings with the Klingons? Odd ones, they are… but hey have a cuisine unlike any other.”

Jo’naly

“Once or twice,” Rende hedged. That was so long ago, it seemed. “One does not forget a Klingon nor their food. It is quite good though. I particularly like Pipius Claw. There is a little planet, oh right on the edge of the border, that does a decent amount of trade. One of the best Klingon chefs. And it’s all fresh. Luckily if you don’t fly under the Federation banner all are welcome there.”

Rende

“Dreswen X, I know it well.” he said with a smile. “They have a surprisingly robust ship and scrapyard there. You can parts for almost anything there.”

Jo’naly

“Personally, I think it one of the best independent shipyards. I would rather buy there than from a Federation yard. Actually, as far as purchasing goes, you can get anything there, get rid of it too. The businesses have a standard, but woe the buyer who doesn’t meet it. There is a charming little pavilion on the North end, past the original settlement. If you follow this dirt path, probably grown iver by now, it leads to a stunning crystal grotto. It is one of my favorite places. The water hitting the crystals makes beautiful music.”

Rende

“I’ll have to check it out the next time I find myself around there.” he replied with a smile. Dominique returned and set a bowl filled with writhing blood-red and black worms. She shook her head and said “Chef told me to tell you that they are fresh, so be careful of the-” and she put the back of her hand to her mouth, “- teeth.” and made her way quickly out of sight. Jo’naly smiled and looked at Rende. “Gagh. Ever had it? For the Klingons it’s quite the delicacy.” He picked up a worm and quickly bit the head off, spit it over the railing, and ate the worm. “Mmmm… they are fresh. I imagine my friend Gredlin the Red brough them in on his ship.”

Jo’naly

Gagh was an acquired taste. Most got sick at the idea. “I have. One does not have dealings with Klingons and not learn to eat it. They take pleasure in watching you squirm or get sick. Though it has been quite awhile since I have had it.” Rende reached into the bowl and took a small handful. She dropped them into her mouth, bit down, and then chewed. “Hmmm, quite fresh. I am sure your friend would be quite irritated to know you are partaking of his delicacy.” She took another small handful and ate it. “The trick is to eat at least 4 at a time. Then they bite each other rather than you.” She picked up her glass to clear her mouth. She made a face as the flavors mixed. “Goes better with warnog.”

Rende

He laughed and nodded. “Or blood wine. Now that is probably my favorite drink ever. Really hard to come by, but if you can get it… it’s worth the hassle.” He ate a few more worms and then looked at Rende. “So… other than the interruption at the lake earlier… how are you enjoying your first day of leave? Personally, I think the bar was set too high, too fast. Deleting an entry on one’s mortal enemies list the first day does seem like the rest of the trip will be wanting.”

Xam

“Never developed a taste for bloodwine. And I tend to forget where I am and who I am with when I drink it.” Rende chuckled. “I am very much enjoying my first few hours. The moon is always beautiful and the view of Risa at sunset is something I am looking forward to. And the company is superb. ” She took a sip of her drink. “Well,” she laughed, “it’s that or marking a name off your list will be the dullest thing on your trip. Then you are in trouble. Interesting, fun, but trouble.”

Rende

Xam leaned forward and put his arms on the table. “Oh… I could go for a little trouble, I think.” He lifted his drink and took a sip. “What about you? Do you enjoy the odd bit of trouble? Or are you more of a ‘calm waters and safe harbors’ kind of person?”

Xam

She laughed out loud at that. “Calm waters and safe harbors? All the fates save me from such an existence. I would go truly mad. Life needs trouble. Or mine does anyway.”

Rende

Xam grinned. “Good to know…” he said softly. At that time, Dominique returned with their meals. The fish looked and smelled amazing, and Xam smiled broadly at Dominique. “Fantastic! Chef hasn’t lost his touch.” She smiled back and said “He sends his regards and wanted me to tell you that your meal is on the house.” Xam nodded once and said “Please let him know that we appreciate the gesture.” She smiled and turned and left. Xam picked up a fork and looked at Rende. “If this isn’t the best fish you have ever had, I will jump naked in that lake.” he said with a jerk of his head towards the water.

Xam

Rende sniffed the aroma. There was a hint of a spice that took her back, centuries, to a memory. A happy one. She picked up her fork and shook her head. “That isn’t much of a price to pay, Jo’naly. But I am sure that you have nothing to fear. Though Dominique would probably pay for the view.” She carefully gathered pieces of the flaky fish onto her fork and tasted it. The flavor was light and matched the heady aroma. It was cooked perfectly with a thin crisp on the outside. She nodded once in approval. “This is very good.”

Rende

He laughed and said “She might… but would you?” he asked with a grin before taking a bite and moaning softly. “Mmmmm… no, you are right. Not much of price at all, because it is the best fish. Gods above how I wish I could get this other places besides this place. It’s such a long trip for dinner.” he said with a soft chuckle before taking another bite.

Xam

Rende gave him a long once over. For a moment he made her forget how old she was. She didn’t look it, but some days she felt it. But she never forgot El. “Hmmm… I might. I am old enough to be your ancestor, however.” She chuckled and sat back, enjoying the meal. “I’ve heard the ship’s chef is exceptional. Perhaps he would be willing to make an attempt for you.”

Rende

“Age is a state of mind.” Xam said, looking directly at her. “Besides… it comes with experience. And I am always willing to learn new things.” He looked down at his plate, took a bite of fish, chewed, took a drink, and then said “I’m sure the chef is quite talented. Maybe I should put him into contact with the chef here. They can trade recipes and such.” Dominique returned. “Is everything to your satisfaction?” she asked. Xam smiled and said “Indeed. Compliments to the chef and the kitchen. And extend my thanks.” She smiled and bounced away, and Xam chuckled. “Well, at least she will get a good tip.”

Xam

Rende laughed, “Jo’naly, you,” she pointed her fork at him, “are a handful.” She grinned. What an interesting day this was turning out to be.

She looked up at Dominique and smiled. “This is excellent. Please extend my compliments to the chef and his staff.” Rende nodded. “She should. She has been quite attentive and helpful. And she is running up and down those stairs with trays. I give her extra points for balance and agility.”

She enjoyed the meal for a moment. “I think I will have to make time to swim the lake. It has been quite some time since I have had the opportunity to swim.”

Rende

Few things drew Quinn’s attention like well done food. She had heard from some of the crew where the best fish was served on Risa and after getting a room a small one but it had a lovely view of the side garden she headed for the recommended restaurant. She had never been to Risa before and she made mental notes to write about this shore leave in detail so her brothers would check it out next time they got breaks from work. She was about to take a seat at a table when she did a double take seeing the Captain and Xam. She grinned at them cheekily, “Any recommendations?” she asked lightly.

Tags

Kindle, CMO

Xam laughed and said “Absolutely! First is a chair. Join us, won’t you?” and he waved at Dominique who nodded and brought over another seat. As she set the table with another setting, Xam said “And second is the lake trout. No one does it better than the chef here.” The server nodded and said “Mr. Jo’naly is too kind, but also correct.” and she smiled at her three of them and then looked at the new arrival. “What would you like to drink?”

Xam / Jo’naly

Rende nodded and waved her hand. “Please do join us. And Jo’naly is quite right. The lake trout is excellent,” she grinned at him, “Good thing fir him it is, or he would have had to make good on his offer.” Dominique’s brows went up. She could could only imagine what payment would make the woman look at Jo’naly that way.

Quinn hesitated but once the new chair was in place she shook her head with a cheeky grin at Xam, “Fine I will join you and lake trout sounds lovely.” she did not add she enjoyed cooking fish. It was rude but when time allowed she would see if any enjoyed her take on Canjun Tuna and Stuffed trout steaks. She also had a fabulous stuffed pepper beef steak planned for special things. The beefsteaks took three days to prepare properly, soaking in pepper sauce in fridge for three days. It was a family recipe that she was not supposed to share with anyone but she might have traded part of it to the Sentinel’s chef so she could use the kitchen from time to time when the mood struck to cook. At the question about what to drink she smiled ruefully, “You wouldn’t happen to have peppermint and hot chocolate?”

TAGS

Kindle CMO

“Of course. One moment.” Dominique said and left the table. Xam looked at Kindle and said “So how do you know this place? Rest of the crew is on the planet; and most dont even bother with a moon resort. Not many even know this place is here. How’d you find it?” and he took a bite of fish.

Xam

Quinn grinned cheekily at him, “I asked my nurses where I can find the best made fish that I don’t have to cook.” She wasn’t going to add those same nurses had been gossiping about other possible finds. She was only interested in enjoying some food that wasn’t by her own hands, without worrying about did something turn out over-cooked or what were folks allergic too. Nurse Barnes was actually allergic to peanuts. She had to make sure to bake separate batches of cookies and give to Barnes alone to make sure there was no cross contamination or anything.

Tags

Kindle, CMO

Rende laughed, “It seems we have some other experienced travelers amongst us Jo’naly.” She turned her attention on Quinn, “Though Risa has excellent food everywhere, I do have to conceded that the lake trout here is unlike any other.” Rende picked up her drink and sipped, enjoying the citrus of the heady beverage. “What are your plans while you are here, Quinn?”

Rende

Quinn smiled cheekily, “I was mostly just going to explore and see what I find. Though I saw a few places that look like spectactular for swimming. Will just have to see where my feet take me I guess.” she wanted to add more but the waitress was coming back and that cup looked like it was larger than her usual hot chocolate with peppermint, not that she minded or was worried about calories. She burned off most of it during her day and evening.

Kindle, CMO

“Jo’naly and I were just discussing that there is lots to discover if one is open to the possibilities.” Did she wink at Jo’naly and Kindle? It was hard to tell. Her smile was quite mysterious.

Dominique set down the hot chocolate. “Your plate will be out in a moment. Can I get you anything else?” she asked the table. Rende picked up her glass, which was getting ready to be empty. “Another Passion Fruit Orb please, Dominique.”

Rende

Jo’naly smiled at Dominique and said “Another bottle, if you would be so kind.” and he held up is almost empty wine glass. After Dominique departed, he looked at Kindle and said “Swimming here on the moon is a treat. I would strongly suggest not leaving until you have had the opportunity to swim the lake and, depending on how brave you find yourself, jumping the waterfall. Its a real event here. Not many try it, so when someone does, it gets a lot of attention.”

Xam / Jo’naly

Quinn laughed, “I will have to try it then, I love waterfall and cliff diving.” She wasn’t afraid whether or not there was a crowd to watch. It was the novelty of the experience and fun. Quinn sipped her hot chocolate with peppermint, it was excellently balanced, sooth and it was a flavor of chocolate she wasn’t familiar with but she was dearly looking forward to finding out where to buy more to use for her own baking ventures.

Kindle, CMO

“It is quite the experience.” Rende commented. Perhaps she would head up that way after dark. The falls and lake were particularly enchanting by starlight. “If you are looking to swim, I suggest avoiding the east bak from 1000 to 1130 hours. The bounkiyas surface during that time. Mostly peaceful, but startle easily and will attack when in large groups. They don’t do too much damage to you, but they hurt themselves, and they are a protected species.”

Rende

“And the locals get really miffed when tourists get them riled up.” Jo’naly said. At that moment, Dominique returned with Kindle’s food. “Bon appetit.” she said with a smile.

Xam / Jo’naly

Quinn nodded her head, “I will be very careful to avoid upsetting the bounkiyas and thank you this looks fabulous.” she said as her plate was set down. It smelled heavenly, she gave Xam and the Captain a cheeky grin before she picked up her fork and took a delicate bite from the lake trout. Her eyes widened and then closed softly, this was wonderful!

Kindle, CMO

Rende grinned at Kindle’s expression. “Are you sure you’re not part Deltan? They have a very unique and full immersive way of enjoying everything from food to breathing.”

Rende

Quinn shook her head, chewing slowly once she was finished chewing, certain that no fish was caught in her teeth did she reply aloud, “No I am most certainly not part Deltan, I just appreciate good food.” she grinned cheekily, “I did date one at the academy by name of Muren, so some of his mannerisms I might have picked up; but this is really fabulous. I will send my brothers the recommendation to come by once they’ve free time. They wouldn’t forgive me if I didn’t share a find like this and I will make sure to tell them to avoid upsetting the bounkiyas so they don’t get into trouble.” Not that it would keep them completely out of mischief but at least she would make sure they didn’t get arrested. Hopefully.

Kindle, CMO

Jo’naly smiled and took a long drink. “And you might want to tell them to keep in mind that a lot of individuals here are here instead of planet-side because they value privacy. Just a bit of friendly advice.” and he nodded once subtly to something behind the two ladies.

Render nodded in agreement. “If they are looking for fun and a more wild time, I suggest recommending the main planet. They can get the trout there as well. Though I have to agree that no one can make it like the chef here.”

A few tables away, a couple sat down. One was familiar to all three of them at the table: Vice Admiral Donovan Lays. He was in charge of the Fleet that all three of them were assigned to. And his companion was most definitely not his wife.

Ra’Ti / Jo’naly

Quinn took a bite of her trout and made a small side glance at the table that Xam nodded towards, she didn’t give a flip who did what on their vacation as long as everyone was consenting. Not her circus, not her monkeys to worry about.

Rende looked over and gave a nod to the Admiral. She looked back at her companions, “I suppose I will have to speak to him before we leave. One of the hazards of command. No matter how much privacy he is expecting by being on the moon, it does not do well to ignore an Admiral that has noticed you.” Rende sighed heavily and didn’t look pleased at the prospect. “However I can finish my meal first.”

“Or you can pretend that he isn’t here.” Xam said softly. “And then he’d be in your debt.”

Rende tipped her head, “True, but do I want that man to owe me a favor?” Lays wasn’t a bad sort, but Rende never understood how a species that was so short lived didn’t have the attention span to focus on one mate. Maybe because they were so short lived?

“So Quinn. Brothers? What do they do?”

Rende

After she finished chewing she looked at Xam and Rende with an extremely proud cheeky grin. “I’m the last of the sextuplets, Micha is the oldest, he generally fixes whatever mechanical thing that breaks down. Caspian, is a musician, he can play any instrument but adores the saxophone and piano the most. Nathanial, is a pilot and is currently the one at the helm of the freighter we grew up on, when we weren’t planet side in Scotland or Ireland.” she took another delicate bite, chewed slowly then continued speaking softly, “Aceton, or Ace is a Professional gambler and has won more tournaments than is worth counting. Trysen is not much older than I am and he enjoys taking pictures of various places, usually by trading his bartending skills for a ride.” Quinn delicately finished her trout and then sat back in her seat. “I thank you for the conversation. I am going to go for a walk, see you around or not as you decide.” Quinn left some cash for her meal, drink, and enough for a hefty tip for Dominque, then got up from her seat in a smooth motion and turned to head out.

Kindle,CMO
Xam / Jo’naly

“Quinn,” Rende called to her, “I won’t keep you if you want to be alone, but please feel that you can stay. I do understand the draw of the paths around the lake. I will probably jump the falls tomorrow if you want to join me.”

Rende

“And the desserts here are to die for.” Xam said with a smile. He then looked thoughtful and said as an afterthought “And some actually have, come to think of it.”

Xam

Quinn hesitated as she glanced from Rende and Xam, the Captain had been very open but Xam’s comments could have been thinly veiled threats, or it was a side of banter that she was just completely mistaking, she wasn’t sure of his motives. Either way she wasn’t sure if she should stay or keep with her idea to walk and think for a bit. “I’ll walk for a bit if you’re still here when I return I will look forward to trying their ‘Death by Chocolate’ that Nurse Greyson recommended, she also cautioned it is best shared.” Quinn said with a cheeky grin at Rende and Xam, slightly unsure or not she wasn’t going to show it by being less cheeky.

Kindle, CMO

“I look forward to it. If not today, we must share one before leave is over.” Rende waved as the doctor and newest member of the senior staff left to go pursue her own entertainment. She turned her attention back to Xam. “Well Jo’naly what would you recommend as a next course to follow this excellent trout and gagh?”

Rende