"Seeing Red"

"These are the memoirs of the Starfleet Officer Mischa; her continuing mission to explore strange new feelings, to seek out new love and new companionship's, to boldy go where no Leveson-Scott has gone before..."

Ambience

The Away Mission

Sam@drcrippler watches as the lights tell them to stop in their designated parking spot Sam@drcrippler: "So... this was... the welcome," he looks at Mischa Alistair Nimitz@natthaan leans back in his chair "And I thought this was painful enough for the Valley Forge.." Mischa@crystyll looks back with a blink, "Apparently so. Seems they are quite big on their visual cues" Sam@drcrippler: "Evidently," he muses. "Right, let's get the pair of you briefied," he stands and walks down the stairs, hands in his pockets Mischa@crystyll checks her PADD, "According to Captain Keelah's report; after taking their designated orbital position they received text instructions for a beam-in point..." looks to Comms Mischa@crystyll: "Let us know as soon as anything comes in" she notes, tagging after the white collars Sam@drcrippler: "I've already got it," Sam waves to Mischa as he descends Mischa@crystyll pauses and glances back with an eyeroll, "Anything /further/" she amends with a chuckle Alistair Nimitz@natthaan leans over the table "I was there for the last meeting with them.." Sam@drcrippler: "Okay," he smiles. "Well, I've been in contact with the Governor on the way here. He's going to beam up and we're going to have a little chat," he says Sam@drcrippler: "I want you two," he looks at the pair. "To do some more intel gathering," Sam@drcrippler nods at Nimitz. "I want you to take charge, since you've been on the planet before. Go down there. Ask questions. Be curious. I want to know everything you can about their society, and how it's run. Sam@drcrippler: Anything that we can use later when we sit and discuss their ultraweapon," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Of course." Mischa@crystyll: "So... no infiltration?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Our skin colors are not exactly going to do a good job at infiltration here." Sam@drcrippler: "Nope. Not yet..." he says. "They're open with us right now. Let's see how far we can push that, before we start going undercover," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: good* Mischa@crystyll glances left with a smirk, "That's where one simply has to get creative" turning back to Sam, "Understood" Sam@drcrippler looks at Nimitz. "Well, you'll be able to blend in as "Pures" alright, since they're normal people, and thus, diverse," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Besides, based on our last visit, they are pretty welcoming over all... Sam, we will need a meeting with Ace sooner, rather then later." Sam@drcrippler nods. "That's on my list that I will be talking to the Governor with today," Mischa@crystyll nods her agreement, "This Governor seems rather limited in his receptiveness according to the report" Sam@drcrippler: "Once I know what the Governor is looking for from us, we can sit and discuss terms. I'll be trying to find what we can offer them. Testing the waters, before we take a plunge in," Sam@drcrippler: "That's why I need you guys to get as much information as possible. Anything that will help later on," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan glances to Mischa "I will do what I can to keep people distracted while you poke around the more.. senstive subjects they may not want to discuss." Mischa@crystyll: "It may be fruitful if I'm able to access a public terminal" she nods Sam@drcrippler nods. "Be weary, note what they want to discuss, what they don't want to discuss. Talk to the clones too, see what they are like. If you can weasel your way into a lab, do so. But..." he takes an Sam@drcrippler: equally long glance at the pair. "... don't do anything that would cause them to be hostile to us," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan grins to Sam Mischa@crystyll dips her head, "Like you even have to say it..." Sam@drcrippler hides a wry smirk Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Me? Cause a diplomatic fallout? You know I'd never do that." Sam@drcrippler rolls his eyes. "If you do, I'm the one the Admiral is going to give the hairdryer to..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan holds his hands up "We'll behave, promise." Sam@drcrippler looks at Mischa, then to Nimitz. "You know, I don't know who to ask to keep an eye on the other... you're both equally as bad," Sam@drcrippler: "Keep each other in check," he chuckles finally Mischa@crystyll glances left like that was ever in doubt, then back to Sam with a frown, "Really..." Sam@drcrippler: "Any questions?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan shakes his head Mischa@crystyll shakes her head, "Try not to do any more damage to the ship in my absence, will you" Sam@drcrippler: "That one, I can't promise," Mischa@crystyll rolls her eyes with a chuckle, "No further questions, Sir" Sam@drcrippler: "Well, dismissed," he smiles. "Now... where's my dress uniform?" he says as he departs Sam@drcrippler: "Riomi, get Keelah on the line, say it's urgent," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks to Mischa "Well, do you need to grab anything before we leave?" Mischa@crystyll doubletakes at Sam, shaking her head slightly as she looks back, "No, I am ready when you are" she smiles, heading back upstairs Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Well, I didn't bring my spare arm.." --- Al-T@drcrippler FX| The team beams down to the same city that Nimitz was before. It's late afternoon, and people are bustling around with their day. Clones can be seen everywhere. Nearby, they can see black clones working in a field. Red clones are wondering around, blue clones in shops, pink clones riding what look like modern rickshaws that float above the ground. Grey clones sweeping the streets. Mischa@crystyll glances around, "And I thought the orbital approach lights were colourful..." DePoe@siskofan1991: Huh. Those are clones alright... Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "They have a cast system of some kind, the pures live a life without wants or needs, while the clones are assigned to tasks based on their skin color, they do all the work so the pures don't need to Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: lift a finger." DePoe@siskofan1991 perks a brow "So it's slavery then," he says, though not too loudly as to be overheard. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Also the clones only live twenty one years... after that, they are retired and broken down into pills to feed the other clones." Mischa@crystyll: "Charming..." DePoe@siskofan1991 turns a little green "So they also make Soylent Green. Brilliant." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "These people are not applying for a Federation membership, so we can do nothing to try and change their ways.." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "At least... not yet... anyway, let's be about it." Mischa@crystyll: "We are simply here to learn all we can" she nods, "I recommend first focusing on seeing which clone caste has the most direct scientific involvement and so may have access to information on this + Mischa@crystyll: + weapon of theirs" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods, looking around for a cafe of some kind. DePoe@siskofan1991 looks for a Papa Song's]] Mischa@crystyll looks around again, "And those reds seem to be a more interpersonal 'breed' than the others, looking at their interactions" Al-T@drcrippler FX| Upstairs a cafe can be seen, some Pures sitting on the balcony Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks to the others "Anyone feeling hungry?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan leads the way to the cafe. Mischa@crystyll: "Just... don't ask me to eat any coloured pills..." DePoe@siskofan1991: Not particularly... Mischa@crystyll continually observes, eavesdrops etc as they pass by conversations Al-T@drcrippler: [Pure #1] "Did you see the Turnball game last night?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Pure #2] "Raynoff's shot was superb!" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan walks into the cafe, looking around for a waiter waiting to lead them to an empty spot, or if it's a seat yourself deal. Al-T@drcrippler FX| The cafe is an open cafe, with a counter and seat yourself seats Alistair Nimitz@natthaan approches the counter. "Hello." Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Hello, sir, how may I serve you?" Al-T@drcrippler is totally behind the counter Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "We are new to the area, so.. what is the more popular drink order you have here?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Also.. do your people use currency?" Mischa@crystyll idly glances around to spot any noteworthy individuals worth sitting within earshot of Al-T@drcrippler: "Ah, at this time of the year, the steamed lycona broth is the preferred drink," he smiles DePoe@siskofan1991 casually observes the crowd, listening to snippets of conversation, watching mannerisms, and most importantly observing the activities of the various clones Alistair Nimitz@natthaan glances to Micha "We'll take... two? Three?" *Waits for Mischa and PePoe to object* Al-T@drcrippler FX| There are three people sitting in the cafe, two ladies sitting talking about their jobs, and a man reading the paper Al-T@drcrippler FX| The people go about their day normally, whilst the clones are busy doing their jobs DePoe@siskofan1991 glances at Nimitz "Yeah I'll take one." Mischa@crystyll smiles cheerily, "lycona broth you say? Sounds perfect! Say, I don't suppose you have any kind of public news terminal in here do you? I missed yesterday's turnball game..." she pouts a little for emphasis Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Three it is.." *Glances over the case for pastries* Al-T@drcrippler: "Yeah, should be a stand outside... did you say you were new? You should go get a visitor pass from the tourist kiosk. It'll give you a tablet with all the latest news," he says, going to make the Al-T@drcrippler: drinks," Mischa@crystyll quirks a brow, nodding with a gracious smile, "Thank you for the suggestion" Al-T@drcrippler FX| There seem to be some cakes, what look like danish pastries, and shortbread on offer Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Yes, this is only our second visit, we are still getting the hang of how things work here." *Points to what he can find that looks the most like a lemon pound cake if there is.* "Can I take one of Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: thoses too?" Mischa@crystyll looks to Nimitz, "I'll grab us some passes while you choose your food, if you like" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Another thing we are still trying to understand is how your people." *Nods to Mischa* "Sounds good." Al-T@drcrippler: "Ah, the Verberry cake. You're a brave man," he chuckles, placing the drinks on the counter, and reaching to cut a slice of cake. He pulls out a laser knife to cut it, and does so with difficulty. " Mischa@crystyll heads back out to find said kiosk and pickup their passes Al-T@drcrippler: "Eat in or take out?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks back to the blue dude "Anyway, as I was saying we are still learning how your people are grouped up onto a cast system?" *Glances to DePoe* "Should we take it to go?" DePoe@siskofan1991 steps forward to take her place and review the counter and the items in and beyond it Al-T@drcrippler FX| As Mischa steps out, she can see said news stand. It says... "NEWS" but there are no papers there. It looks empty Al-T@drcrippler FX| Signs for the Kisok are back towards the beam in point Mischa@crystyll follows the signs to the kiosk to get the passes DePoe@siskofan1991: Not sure we'll find what we're looking for here. The view isn't quite as imporessive as it was on street level... Probably should take it to go. Al-T@drcrippler: "Cast system?" he asks, "Oh that's, 8 clicks by the way," Al-T@drcrippler FX| The kiosk is manned by a bored looking Green clone Al-T@drcrippler: https://i.imgur.com/P5mDUHz.jpg (green clone) Mischa@crystyll approaches and enquires about the visitor passes Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Visitors passes are here. How many do you need?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Eight clicks?" *Reaches into his pocket and takes out eight slips of GPL* "This is all I have on me, will this be acceptable?" Mischa@crystyll: "Three, please" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "What... is that?" he eyes the GPL Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Which ship are you from?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "This is gold pressed latinum, it's a universal currancy that we use." Mischa@crystyll: "Starfleet vessel; USS Endeavour" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "I'm sorry sir, but that is not accepted currency here. You... haven't got your visitor passes do you?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Our friend is getting those now." Al-T@drcrippler [Green] taps the screen. "Can I get a verification?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Forgive me, we are still new here." Mischa@crystyll hrms, "Audio or visual?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Yes, she is. Please sit down, I'm sure she'll return soon," he offers a smile, pushing the drinks and food towards the pair Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Visual. I will check it with the ship's records that have been submitted," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods in thanks "We won't leave until we pay.. one last question, is the Verberry cake a lesser demand cake?" Mischa@crystyll smiles, "Nice and efficient there, I see. Very well; Mischa Leveson-Scott. Commander. Executive Officer" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "It is. It takes a strong jaw," he chuckles. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan chuckles "Well... I've got that covered." *Takes the cake and his drink, while DePoe can reach in and grab the other two dinks." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: * Al-T@drcrippler [Green] does some more tapping. "You are clear. I have given you 500 complementary clicks as your ship's first visit here. It is registered under your pass," DePoe@siskofan1991 reaches in and does so, one in each hand Mischa@crystyll: "Thank you." she smiles politely, "I require two additional passes for my colleagues as well..." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods to the blue "Thanks." Al-T@drcrippler [Green] slides ID cards towards Mischa. Two are plain and say "Visitor - USS Endeavour" whilst Mischa's has a picture of her along with the writing. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan heads to a table in view of the guy behind the counter so they don't look like they are about to dine and dash. He takes a nibble of the cake. Mischa@crystyll: "Perfect, thank you. Oh, and one of the, um, 'Blues' in the cafe up there mentioned something about being able to pick up a tablet here as well?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Here is a tablet to interface with the tourist spots. Please return it upon departure," DePoe@siskofan1991 slips into the opposite seat and places one of the drinks down. The other he sniffs aprasingly Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Thank you for visiting Nelara. We hope you enjoy your stay," Mischa@crystyll tucks it under her arm, bundling the passes together, "Thank you, again. Good day to you" she nods and makes her way back to rejoin the others Al-T@drcrippler FX| The cake offers a lot of resistance, like... baked toffee. The drink smells like peppermint Mischa@crystyll reenters the cafe a short time later, briefly looking around to see where the others are DePoe@siskofan1991 raises his eyebrows, impressed "Well it doesn't /smell/ like people," he mutters so he won't be overheard. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan waves over Mischa Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Did you get the passes? We still gotta pay for the drinks." Mischa@crystyll slips into an empty seat, sliding them each a pass, "Like there was any doubt" she smiles DePoe@siskofan1991: Apearntly they don't accept GPL here. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "We owe eight clicks... not sure what a click is though." Mischa@crystyll: "Though I think mine may be the only one with courtesy credits on it." she chuckles, "I guess lunch is on me then" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I'll pay you back later." Mischa@crystyll still chuckling, "Just don't make me feel like a mother on a shopping trip here and we'll call it quits, Sir" she slides over the tablet, "Got this too, want to see if you can find anything of + Mischa@crystyll: + note while I settle up?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Sounds good.." *Nibbles more on the cake as he reaches for the tablet.* Mischa@crystyll takes her drink and returns to the counter Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "WELCOME TO NELARA" it says as it boots up Mischa@crystyll ahems, presenting her pass, "I believe our order still owes... 8 'clicks', was it?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "Shows one of those tourist type reels that you see on inflight tv screens Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Ah yes," takes the pass, checks it with Mischa's face, before tapping it on a consle and handing it back. "Thank you," DePoe@siskofan1991: Somehow I doubt we'll get a 'nitty gritty' feel for the society from this... Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Doubtful... but we have to start from somewhere after all." Mischa@crystyll: "Thank you" she smiles back, "You have been most courteous and helpful! I am curious, is that a trait of your... colour? Apologies, but I am unsure what the correct term is by which you refer to yourselves" she says, holding a polite smile DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "Also what a species says about itself can say a lot about said species I suppose. Or so they say." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Indeed.." *Takes a sip of the peppermint smelling drink as he waits for the introduction video to finish playing* Al-T@drcrippler: "I'm not sure!" he chuckles. "All the colours I interact with are generally friendly," Al-T@drcrippler: ^ Blue Al-T@drcrippler FX| The Peppermint smelling drink tastes like peppermint hot chocolate. DePoe@siskofan1991 sips as well "Hm. Not bad." Mischa@crystyll 's smile broadens, dipping her head, "Then I am sure such a positive demeanour can only be a trait of your people at large! I should not take more of your time" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan chuckles slightly as he seems to be unable to stop grinning. "Oh boy... one moment.." Al-T@drcrippler [Tablet] finishes playing the reel and shows various options such as news, hotspots, maps, events, etc. Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Thank you ma'am," he smiles, and busies himself with work Alistair Nimitz@natthaan reaches into his pocket and takes out a hypospray, injecting himself with it before he slowly is able to stop grinning. DePoe@siskofan1991 raises a brow Mischa@crystyll returns to her seat, peearing at progress on the tablet as she sips her broth. A brief visual sweep ID'ing nearby conversations again DePoe@siskofan1991: You alright, Captain? Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Yes, I'll be fine.. just was caught unprepared for the sugar content in the drink." Al-T@drcrippler: [Pure Female #1] "So, Layson asked me out to broth yesterday," Al-T@drcrippler: [Pure Female #2] "Urgh, what a worm!" Al-T@drcrippler: [PF 1] "I rather like him..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan taps more on the tablet once he can focus again, looking for information on the role of the clones. Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "Did you mean Cones?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Cones?" DePoe@siskofan1991 rolls his eyes Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "A type of game that involves four teams trying to place a ball in the opposition cone," DePoe@siskofan1991: Try looking up a specific color, like a Blue, or a Red. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan shakes his head "I want information regarding the blue color workers." Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "No data found. Please ask at the tourist kiosk for assistance" Mischa@crystyll quirks a brow, "Try 'Ace Day'. That wa the event held during your last visit right? Where hundreds of clones were given honours of sorts?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan arches a brow as he does as Mischa asks. DePoe@siskofan1991: Odd. They'd have to know most species would at the very least be curious about their... work force. They can't just sweep it under some perverbial rub. I mean, they're everywhere, plain as day. Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "Ace Day. A celebration to our great Leader, Ace. It is a Nelaraan wide holiday," Mischa@crystyll: "From what I've observed so far, it may be that the public consensus is one that doesn't even register them as living beings, rather more; tools, like we would a tricorder" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "What about the 1000 workers that were given awards for their twenty years of service?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] Unknown query. Please ask at the tourist kiosk for assistance" DePoe@siskofan1991 glances at Mischa "You're probably right. Still that's like us having a visitor and not explaining gravity plating to them then." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Hmm... perhaps we should ask the tourist kiosk." Al-T@drcrippler FX| Shouting is heard outside Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks over, standing up and heading outside towards the noise. Mischa@crystyll: "Well, Captain Keelah's report did indicate a degree of indoc-... looks to the door, "Seems worth investigating..." she gets up and heads that way Al-T@drcrippler FX| A pure man is standing over a Red clone who's on the floor Alistair Nimitz@natthaan walks over to the pair. "Excuse me." Mischa@crystyll instinctively kneels, drawing her tricorder to check over the Red Al-T@drcrippler: "I told you to get me five bolts, not three!" the man yells, giving the Red an almighty kick Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Hey! Let's all settle down here.. what seems to be the issue?" Al-T@drcrippler FX| The red is bleeding profusely from various cuts and bruises Mischa@crystyll resists the urge to verbally castrate the man for kicking the downed red Al-T@drcrippler: "This red is defunct. I must get her replaced," he says to Nimitz, grabbing the Red by the hair and dragging her away Mischa@crystyll would attempt to aid the red as best she can without any actual medical equipment Alistair Nimitz@natthaan uses his long legs to block off his path. "Let her go, now." Mischa@crystyll scowls at her being dragged away, tagging close behind as she Nimitz intervene Al-T@drcrippler: "What's with you?" the man asks. "Get out of my way," Mischa@crystyll: "If I may, Sir" she smiles to the Pure Mischa@crystyll: "We are but curious visitors eager to learn here, if this Red is of no use to you, perhaps we could take her off your hands for a modest compensation of clicks?" Al-T@drcrippler blinks. "What? No? I'll just get her replaced. If this man would move out of my way," DePoe@siskofan1991: Well if you're going to replace her anyway, what harm is there in letting us, um, buy her off of you? Mischa@crystyll nods to that sentiment, "I'm sure we can come to an equitable agreement. We wouldn't want to see you hard done by after all, so you can still get your replacement" Al-T@drcrippler: "Because it's my duty to get her recycled," he looks at them. "You clearly are not from around here," Mischa@crystyll: "Please, Sir; we only wish to learn because - as you say - we are outsiders. We can see to the recycling once it is appropriate" she smiles innocently Alistair Nimitz@natthaan seems to be trying really hard to hold his mouth shut. Al-T@drcrippler laughs. "No, no," he chuckles. "I don't think you understand," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "You are right, we don't understand." Al-T@drcrippler: "Everyone has to register their clones. I can't give mine away," Mischa@crystyll: "Surely there must be... /some/ way to make such an arrangement..." her eyes drift sympathetically to the injured Red, "After all, I suppose faulty clones must on occassion get... 'lost', no?" DePoe@siskofan1991: I mean, c'mon. For one measly red, I'm sure we could make it worth your while for her to um, as my friend said, "become lost?" Al-T@drcrippler: "If you are not a registered Nelaraan citizen, you do not get a clone. And they cannot become lost. They'll die within 36 hours. And there is nothing you can do to "bribe" me," he chuckles Al-T@drcrippler [Red] quietly sobs Mischa@crystyll: "Well what if we simply borrowed her before she gets recycled then?" Mischa@crystyll: "All we ask in that is for you to go without your Red for 36 hours, which I'm sure the clicks can compensate..." Al-T@drcrippler: "Why would you want to borrow her? She clearly can't understand simple orders," he hisses at the Red. "And no, I cannot go without the red for that long. Clicks do not compensate," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Perhaps we should take you with us." DePoe@siskofan1991 is now strongly resiting the urge to manhandle the guy and threaten to space him out an airlock Mischa@crystyll: "How about it? That's a pretty exclusive experience right there!" Al-T@drcrippler: "No, I have meetings to attend to," he says, moving to drag the Red off again. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan stares down the man for a good long time, thinking over the risk of turning every bone in the guys body into dust. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan also really hoeps these people don't know how to read minds. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: hopes*)) Al-T@drcrippler pushes past Nimitz, dragging the sobbing clone behind him Mischa@crystyll: "Please, Sir; there has to be /something/ which can convince you assist us?" Al-T@drcrippler: "If you want assistance, that's what the clones are for. Go talk to a Green or something," Mischa@crystyll: "You know relations with our people are of the highest importance to Ace, surely you can see the benefits of being able to claim personal assistance to Ace's efforts..." Al-T@drcrippler chuckles. "Well, I don't see you with any Governor," he pulls out his ID card and taps it. Mischa@crystyll: "That's because he's currently on board our ship getting the tour that you were invited to share..." Al-T@drcrippler FX| Moments later, a pink clone in a rickshaw arrives, and the man lifts up the Red and throws her in. "Waste of time," he mutters, stepping into the rickshaw Al-T@drcrippler: https://i.imgur.com/Agms6TJ.jpg ((pink clone!)) Mischa@crystyll reaches to discreetly give the Red a comforting and apologetic squeeze of the hand as she's hoisted out of reach Al-T@drcrippler: "You clearly are new here. Your willingness to help these clones shows everyone that. This is their job. It's their only function. They are nothing more," Mischa@crystyll looks to the others as the rickshaw rides off, "It's not over, but we have to be quick. Come on!" Mischa@crystyll returns to the cafe DePoe@siskofan1991 turns and follow Mischa@crystyll finds the friendly Blue, suddenly all a fluster and panicked looking, "Please, please you have to help! How do I report a crime?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "A crime? Where?" Mischa@crystyll: "Just outside! This man's Red, I... don't know, he said she was faulty or something, but she was definitely not right and she slipped away my broach!" Mischa@crystyll: "He said he was taking her for recycling...?" DePoe@siskofan1991 catches on and plays along. His face grows outraged "That broach is a pricelss item! We must get it back now!" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Ah!!! OH" runs around in mini circles. He stops and taps his console. "Crime protoco Mischa@crystyll shakes her head dire-like, "It's worse than that Captain, it was emergency beacon. Why, if she activates like 'this'-" special-taps her combadge, "-she'll be beamed straight to sickbay off of my + Mischa@crystyll: +emergency beacon signal..." Mischa@crystyll ahems, discretely closing the comms signal she didn't just open to relay that subtle order to the ship... Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Please stand by," he turns and steps back. Almost instantly, someone walks to the shop, armoured. He is flanked by a pair of armed browns Al-T@drcrippler: https://i.imgur.com/rZydKIo.jpg (browns!) DePoe@siskofan1991 gives Mischa a sly grin and wink when he's sure no one is looking Al-T@drcrippler: "I heard there was a crime?" the armoured person says Mischa@crystyll turns and promptly repeats her emotionally distressing story, including how it might inadvertently beam her away. But offering convincing reassurance that they would be able to find and return her + Mischa@crystyll: + for recycling if that did occur. Possibly... Al-T@drcrippler: "This matter must be dealt with immedietly. We shall check with at the recycling plant, and then at the beam in point," Mischa@crystyll nods, "You do that. In the mean time, I should get back to my ship. Heavens forbid, if she did beam out but failed to properly align with the ship's orbital position, I fear she may be lost to the + Mischa@crystyll: + vacuum of space..." Mischa@crystyll ahems, "Along with my very precious broach, obviously!" Al-T@drcrippler: "Do not worry Ma'am, we'll get your broach for you. Your ID please?" Mischa@crystyll hands it over Al-T@drcrippler scans it and hands it back. "Good. We will send a team over to the ship, if we do not find the Red at the recycling plant," he nods and heads out Mischa@crystyll mumbles, "And I promise they won't find her there either..." turning back to the others, a look says she feels even dirtier for having played that card Mischa@crystyll: "I apologies for the brash action, Sirs. But I couldn't just sit by and watch..." she shakes her head DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "Excellent work, Commander. Were you my XO, I'd put you in for promotion..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Trust me... you were far less.. 'brash' then what we were thinking." Mischa@crystyll: "We're not out of the woods yet. That 'Pure' will be reporting the sudden disappearance of his Red about now and pointing the finger at us" Mischa@crystyll: "I must return to the ship and ensure the situation is handled accordingly when we do get approached, plus... we have a new guest to attend" she smiles Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "We need to get our hands on some of those pills so she stays alive.." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "If nothing else put her in stasis until we can find a sutible alternative." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Indeed.." Mischa@crystyll: "That's assuming the necessity of them is true, and not something that our own doctors can subsidise" Al-T@drcrippler: [Blue] "Are they gone?" he squeaks from behind the counter Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks over at the Blue guy "Why are you hiding?" Mischa@crystyll peers over, "Yes, you can come out now. Why... " looks up to Nimitz with a nod Al-T@drcrippler FX| The other Nelaraans had watched this with interest, but were now back to their usual stuffs Al-T@drcrippler: "Those armoured suit guys are scary," he stands, shuddering Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Perhaps you could shed some light for us.." Al-T@drcrippler: "They're part of the CC. They get involved with any clone issues," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I see... but what kind of jobs do reds do here?" Mischa@crystyll excuses herself with a polite smile, moving to comm the ship and verify 1) that they have the Red. 2) she's being treated. 3) They know what to say if approached for other crime Al-T@drcrippler: "Reds are personal assistants. They're the ones I see a lot of," Al-T@drcrippler: [Riomi] "Hi Commander, everything okay?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "This.. might sound like an odd question.. but humor us." Al-T@drcrippler: ^ to Mischa Al-T@drcrippler: "Erm... I don't know any jokes..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Nononono.. we weren't.. never mind, anyway, I have a question regarding the reds, is it common for their owners to subject them to abuse normally?" Mischa@crystyll: <C> "Riomi. Please tell me there is currently a very Red girl being treated in sickbay" Al-T@drcrippler: "I am not sure," he replies Al-T@drcrippler: [Riomi] "One sec Commander... yes, there is," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Are there any laws regarding protection from abuse?" Al-T@drcrippler: "I... don't know, I'm sorry. You'd be better off asking at the tourist kiosk Al-T@drcrippler: ," Mischa@crystyll: <C> Excellent. She will likely be very scared, I will return asap to see her. Have medical do a full workup on her biology as well. We need to determine a means of sustenance for her, I think..." Al-T@drcrippler: [Riomi] "Got it Commander, will do," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "What about your role as a blue?" Al-T@drcrippler: "I just come and serve," he says Mischa@crystyll: <C> Thank you Riomi. Finally my apologies for the impromptu situation there, but you have my thanks for an expert handling of it. One more thing; we anticipate being contacted by the local + Mischa@crystyll: + authorites claiming we stole her. Please ensure they understand how we reported her unfortunate theft of my emergency transport beacon which she sadly failed to calibrate and so beamed herself in + Alistair Nimitz@natthaan glances to DePoe "We still have much to learn I see..." Mischa@crystyll: + space. It is, after all, a /very/ tragic accident we do not wish to see cause any diplomatic tension..." Al-T@drcrippler: [Riomi] "Ah, so that explains all the flashing ships around the Endeavour..." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods at NimitIz before turning to the Blue, "I have a question for you too. I'm sure my chief science officer would like to study the pills you all consume. Is there any way I can acquire some for DePoe@siskofan1991: him to study? You know, as a souvenir?" Al-T@drcrippler shakes his head. "I'm sorry, If you have questions about the clones, your best bet is to go to the Clone Facility," DePoe@siskofan1991: Ah. Alright. And where might that be? Would our tablet be able to show us? Al-T@drcrippler: "Of course, if you would like to hand it here," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "The pills, you take blue ones becaue you are blue? or what color are they?" DePoe@siskofan1991 looks over at Nimitz, who presumably still has the tablet Mischa@crystyll: <C> Yes, again... we are deeply sorry that this faulty Red met such an unfortunate fate ahead of being recycled... Al-T@drcrippler: "They are blue, yes," Al-T@drcrippler: [Riomi] "I've got it Commander. Shall... I inform the Captain?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Does a red take red pills?" Al-T@drcrippler: "I... would assume so? Or blue ones too," Mischa@crystyll: <C> Please. Have him contact me if needed for further exposition as I'm sure he won't want the Governor feeling bad over this unfortunate affair" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Alright... thank you for your help." Al-T@drcrippler: [Riomi] "Sure commander," Al-T@drcrippler would have tapped the direction into the tablet and got back to work Mischa@crystyll: <C> You are a star Riomi. Leveson-Scott out DePoe@siskofan1991 nods to the Blue "Thank you very much, sir. You have been a big help." Al-T@drcrippler: "Glad to be of service," Mischa@crystyll rejoins the others, back with her distraught face, "The ship is aware of the circumstances surrounding this... /unfortunate/ incident. I believe it is about time we move on from here now?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks to Mischa "We need to get red pills before we leave.." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "Good idea. Next we're checking out the cloning center. See if we can pick up some souveniours for my CSO." Mischa@crystyll smiles, "Why Captain, what a thoughtful idea for a souvenir. I bet your CSO would love such a sample!" DePoe@siskofan1991: I'm sure she would. DePoe@siskofan1991: Our science facilities on the Leyte are limited however, so I may have to ask your captain to borrow the Endeavour's. DePoe@siskofan1991: Because I know she'll want to test them right away... DePoe@siskofan1991 is keeping a jovial tone as if he were excited to go shopping or something Mischa@crystyll: "Let us first secure the samples. Is it walking distance or do we need to call a site-to-site?" ----- At the Cloning Facility… Al-T@drcrippler FX| The door is locked Mischa@crystyll looks for a call button or something Al-T@drcrippler FX| Seems to be a small panel by the door DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "Sure," he says before stepping up and looking for a call button. (And pressing it if there is one so we can speed this along) Al-T@drcrippler FX| Absolutely nothing happens. It's a very smooth panel, though lights are flashing behind it Alistair Nimitz@natthaan tries knocking loudly on the door. Al-T@drcrippler FX| There's sign that says [AUTHORISED ENTRY ONLY] DePoe@siskofan1991 smirks at Nimitz "When in doubt..." Al-T@drcrippler opens. "Hello?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan smiles to the white dude "Hey, we have questions." Al-T@drcrippler: ((looks a lot more white than his skin tone suggests)) Al-T@drcrippler: "I am sorry, we are very busy right now," DePoe@siskofan1991: I'm sorry to bother you sir, this is probably the wrong door. As you can see we're from off world. We're explorers actually. Al-T@drcrippler: "Please hurry with your inquiry," he taps his foot impatiently DePoe@siskofan1991 ignores the fact he commands a warship and says "Basically we're intrested in the pills you apearntly serve the clones. Is there any way we can purchase some? If not from you, then from a proper + DePoe@siskofan1991: vendor? Al-T@drcrippler: "No. You cannot. Any more questions?" Mischa@crystyll: "Perhaps purchase is a stretch... We wish to study them for scientific research. A complement to our support for continued relations with your people, you see" Al-T@drcrippler: "No," he says again. "You are wasting my time," he turns and the door begins to close Alistair Nimitz@natthaan places his foot in the doorway Mischa@crystyll: "And you are wasting ours if you so haphazardly dismiss this request. Please... there must be some accommodation you make in the interest of science?" Al-T@drcrippler FX| The door does the annoying thing where it keeps opening and closing on the foot DePoe@siskofan1991: If you can't purchase them, how are they usually acquired then? Mischa@crystyll winces slightly, watching the door do it's thing on Nimitz' foot Alistair Nimitz@natthaan has very good boots. Al-T@drcrippler turns again. "There is nothing I can do to help you. We have a crisis here that will not solve itself. Please, leave us," he looks at Poe. "They collected here by each clone," he states. "At the Al-T@drcrippler: end of the work day. It is not that time, and you are not clones," Al-T@drcrippler heads back to work, not bothering that the door isn't closed Mischa@crystyll: "What if we can assist in your crisis?" she offers blindly. Because Starfleet Al-T@drcrippler: "You cannot, you are outsiders, you do not know what we know. And this information cannot be shared," DePoe@siskofan1991 watches them leave then looks to Nimitz and tries to tell him without saying anything to let the door close. Mischa@crystyll: "We may not know the same things, but there's every chance we know things that you do not and so may not have considered. Would it really hurt to let us try and help?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes," Mischa@crystyll sighs wearily, looking to the others for ideas DePoe@siskofan1991 shakes his head "I don't think we're going to convince him otherwise. Come on. i think we should beam up for now." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan holds up one finger as he steps inside. DePoe@siskofan1991: Captain! Mischa@crystyll has a bad feeling about this Al-T@drcrippler FX| The door opens to let Nimtiz in and moves to close again Mischa@crystyll takes over as Human doorstop DePoe@siskofan1991 catches the door and steps in behind Nimitz, standing in the doorframe Al-T@drcrippler FX| Door resumes the annoying opening and closing thing Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I know we are outsides.. but, there is a reason we need those pills.. you see, our Federation is facing the biggest crisis its ever faced in its life, we have a deadly plague sweeping our worlds." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "We believe that one of your pills could hold the key to unlocking the cure to that plague." Al-T@drcrippler: "Not the problem of the Nelaraans. Besides, our pills only work on clones," DePoe@siskofan1991 only doesn't faceplam because he's in public Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "If you were to provide us a stample of just one of each, the Federation would owe your people a great debt." Mischa@crystyll squeezes in, door be damned Al-T@drcrippler: "We have no diplomatic ties to you, and we're under no obligation to oblige. We cannot spare the pills," Al-T@drcrippler FX| The door would resume closing unless someone else stops it DePoe@siskofan1991: Come on. They don't want our help. Nor do we want theirs. Come on. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan sighs "Very well... when the plague reaches this planet, I can only hope that your people fair better then ours.." Al-T@drcrippler is totally unfazed by this, carries on working Al-T@drcrippler: [White 2] "Pill synthaised," Mischa@crystyll: "You are right, and we apologize for the disruption. However we must report this failure at once to the Governor's office so our Commander in Chief can adapt his response to your Governor's + Mischa@crystyll: +negotiations accordingly. So if you could just point me to a free terminal..." Al-T@drcrippler: [White 3] "Put it in the collection," Al-T@drcrippler FX| The white clone takes a yellow pill over to a console Al-T@drcrippler: "What do I look like? A green?" the white clones snaps at Mischa Mischa@crystyll: "Well I'm afraid since the diplomatic stance has fallen down due to your own obligations. /Our/ obligation is to report this before the presumption of cooperation here leads to a falsely balanced + Mischa@crystyll: + alliance back with the Governor" Al-T@drcrippler: "Once again, not my problem," DePoe@siskofan1991: "Let's go, Commander. I don't think any of this matters to him..." he says, though his eyes are on the White and his voice is what? Pity? Disappointment? Mischa@crystyll: "As you say, Sir..." she accepts defeat. For now... DePoe@siskofan1991 nods sympathetically at Mischa. It's clear he isn't mad at anyone. Only sad. He looks at Nimitz and gestures out the opened door "Captain?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan taps the door thingy Al-T@drcrippler FX| The tablet makes a pingy noise DePoe@siskofan1991 makes sure they both leave before he turns to go. He gives the White one more look to apologize for interrupting his work, but then decides against it, shaking his head again before stepping outside too. Mischa@crystyll looks to the tablet that one of the is definitely still carrying and didn't leave in the cafe DePoe@siskofan1991 mutters quietly to his compatriots, his voice full of disgust and sadness "My god. They are machines..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Reminds me a little about this old Earth holo I enjoy.." Al-T@drcrippler: [Tablet] "Breaking News. Nelaraan Pills shortage extends for another week" Mischa@crystyll: "Oh no..." DePoe@siskofan1991 frowns "That can't be good." Mischa@crystyll looks back, "But not as bad either. It says /extends/, not a fresh shortage. This is not our-... my doing" Mischa@crystyll: "We should get back to the ship. Now we have our guest on board, perhaps she can help us find a solution; not only to to our immediate concern, but to aid this shortage en masse" DePoe@siskofan1991 blinks "How would it be?" he looks around "I think it's time we get off this planet for now." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "There we can speak more frankly as well," he says. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Perhaps we can find an alternative pill.. or one that will do what the pill's effect." Mischa@crystyll nods and taps her combadge, "Endeavour; three to beam up" Al-T@drcrippler FX| The three are beamed up! ----- Back on the Endeavour… Sam@drcrippler looks around, fairly content. "How'd it go?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Well... we didn't start a war.. I think." Mischa@crystyll: "Did Riomi relay my debrief from the surface?" DePoe@siskofan1991 looks between the others "Probably could have gone better." Sam@drcrippler looks at Nimitz. "I'm glad that. The Governor and I had a very productive meeting," he looks at Mischa. "No, she didn't. She was about to tell me now," Sam@drcrippler frowns at DePoe's assessment Mischa@crystyll 's head drops, "We must bring you up to speed. Ready room or conference?" Sam@drcrippler: "Conference," he nods, undoing his dress jacket and flinging it onto his chair Mischa@crystyll nods firmly, a glance to the others as she turns and heads downstairs Sam@drcrippler: "I'm so glad I got through a diplomatic meeting without ruining a dress jacket..." he mutters Sam@drcrippler taps his console to bring up information. "Okay, you guys want to go first, or shall I?" Mischa@crystyll: "We should" Sam@drcrippler nods "Proceed," Mischa@crystyll: "First things first, Sir; there is currently one of the Red clones being treated in sickbay" Sam@drcrippler blinks. "Erm... how?" DePoe@siskofan1991: Though some excellent quick thinking on your XO's part. Mischa@crystyll sighs, "We witnessed... an aberration of abusive behaviour. She was being beaten and dragged through the city street..." Mischa@crystyll: "We intervened and attempted to render aid. Her 'owner' was adamant that she was faulty and attempting to return her for recycling. We took the opportunity to make every diplomatically minded effort+ Mischa@crystyll: +to take the girl off his hands. Trade, barter, persuasion, coercion... but he would have none of it" Sam@drcrippler: "Hm. It was not unexpected. My talks with the Governor revealed that the clones are merely seen as tools," DePoe@siskofan1991 adds glumly "They see themselves as tools as well. They only care about what's in their own pregiven perviews. But sorry I'm interrupting." Mischa@crystyll: "As he forced an exit, we-... that is, /I/ acted - without order from either senior officer present, so they are not accountable in this..." Sam@drcrippler: "Yes," he nods. "That's because of a recent law that forces all clones to be handed in. They have a severe pill shortage, which they need to keep these clones alive," Mischa@crystyll: "Yes, we... heard" she sighs, looking back, "Sam... the poor girl was sobbing in pain and suffering while he simply threatened to silence her with more violence..." DePoe@siskofan1991 looks between Mischa and Sam, he looked like he was bracing for something. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I believe both Captain DePoe and I agree that Commander Leveson-Scott acted with the best judgement possible at the time." Sam@drcrippler: "To them, it's no different to us slapping the side of a tricorder to get it to work," Mischa@crystyll: "So... I slipped my emergency transport beacon into her palm and triggered a remote beamout once they left..." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "I agree with Captain Nimitz." Mischa@crystyll glances to the pair, a small smile at the comaradarie Sam@drcrippler considers this. "We... are going to have to hand her back," Mischa@crystyll: "That may be so, but the action was mine. And, Sir; that would only degrade relations" DePoe@siskofan1991: Unless I'm wrong, as far as we know they don't think she's here. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I disagree that we have to hand her back, if anything, we can say she is dead and they have no reason to believe otherwise." DePoe@siskofan1991: We should at least get as much info from her as possible before we do that. Mischa@crystyll: "I was careful in providing adequate cover, as such; they believe she was tragically lost during the beamout and have nothing to retrieve" Mischa@crystyll: "To go back and reveal that we do have her, well, it would have to be very carefully approached so as not to highlight the deception..." Sam@drcrippler: "Are you sure about that Mischa? If you're not... We're going to have another incident like that freighter on our hands," DePoe@siskofan1991: And they have a damned superweapon in orbit! You don't think /that/ is going to create an incident? Mischa@crystyll: "I dealt with the local authorities personally and..." glances out the window, "Unless there are still flashing lights out there that I can't see, it would appear that the matter is considered settled Sam@drcrippler looks at Poe with calm. "That superweapon is highly experimental and they are not prone to firing it off willy nilly. In fact, they do not even consider us a target for the weapon," Mischa@crystyll: "Yet" DePoe@siskofan1991 is blazing with fury for a second, but just as quickly calms himself "I apologize for that outburst, captain. Though I feel that's a naive attitude to hold." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods at what Mischa says Sam@drcrippler: "They want peaceful cooperation with us. They might be considering joining the Federation," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "If that happens they have to end this barbaric slavery." DePoe@siskofan1991: After what I saw today, they'd never accept the changes we'd require of them to make it. Mischa@crystyll: "Frankly Sir, they have a long way to evolve culturally before they even come close. And when the Federation rejects them, their desire to aim their weapon elsewhere may just waiver Sam@drcrippler nods. "This is what I told them. They were reluctant, but didn't refuse flatly," Mischa@crystyll: "So what happens now?" DePoe@siskofan1991: The societal upheval... it'd require a complete change in mindset. That takes decades, centuries to achieve. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "We don't tell them we have the clone for starters, and we try and find a way to keep her alive without the use of the pills." Sam@drcrippler: "Well, as long as we aren't shot out of orbit for breaking their laws, we have arranged a proper diplomatic meeting in a few days time," DePoe@siskofan1991: In the short term we can keep her in stasis. Though... i did have a certain idea to get her pills. Though considering the circumstances, it may be too risky Mischa@crystyll nods to Nimitz, then looking to Sam, "I am hopeful that with detailed study; we can use Red to develop a sustainable alternative supplement for them" Sam@drcrippler: "Let's hear it Captain?" he nods to Poe DePoe@siskofan1991: We convince her to come back down with us, and she gets her own. Once shes got one or hopefully more, we get her out as quickly and discretely as possible Sam@drcrippler looks to the rest. "Thoughts?" DePoe@siskofan1991 looks at the others, Nimitz in particular "I had this idea from the moment we were in the cloning center, but I didn't want to say anything with the door open." He doesn't mention specifics, but + DePoe@siskofan1991: his words have a slight edge to them. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan glances to DePoe Mischa@crystyll considers, "/If/ she can be suitably persuaded of a better way than the only life she's ever known..." DePoe@siskofan1991: There is something else that's just crossed my mind at the Commander's suggestion. Asylum. Sam@drcrippler: "How long does she have left to live? They generally feed them once every 24 hours, but... this shortage has cut down the amount of pills fed," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I believe we have a timeline of 36 hours." DePoe@siskofan1991: I think they get a maximum of 36 and she probably hasn't fed since yesterday Sam@drcrippler: "If she was due to be recycled, then I would assume they would not waste a pill on her. Thus, we only have a handful of hours," Mischa@crystyll: "36 hours is how long we have to find her sustainance, IF the local regime is to even be believed. The same can be said for the 20yr lifespan; it is only on the 'Pure's say so that we have such detail Mischa@crystyll: "...for all we know, she could eat normal food and live as long as any of the rest of us. Until medical complete the full workup I ordered, we are second guessing" DePoe@siskofan1991: "Worse comes to worse, we put her in staysis until we find a sutible alternative. If the pills are just recycled clones-" he puases with disgust here- "then it's possible we can synthesize the needed+ DePoe@siskofan1991: protiens." Sam@drcrippler: "Possibly," he nods DePoe@siskofan1991: I'm not a scientist, but if we had an actual pill, we could scan it and anaylize it for composition. Mischa@crystyll: "Which comes back to my original optimistic note that we can develop an alternative. Imagine Sam, if we can meet properly with their leaders again and show them that we can help end their pill shortage DePoe@siskofan1991: It'd probably would make it easier to synth the needed nurishment. DePoe@siskofan1991 perks a brow at Mischa "And enable them to continue with this practice of slaving sapient beings." Sam@drcrippler: "Okay," he nods. "Mischa, work with Molly. See what you can do to synthese these pills. If nothing, it gives us a barging chip," Mischa@crystyll: "Of course not! But it's entirely possible that the reduced lifespan and strict slavery regime is all towards the end of managing this supplement cycle with their overall numbers" Mischa@crystyll nods, "Of course, Sir. And I hate to be the one saying it after what happened down there, but..." Mischa@crystyll: "There is also the possibility that we can find a way to weaponise this supplement; to remove their clone force out from under them en mase, should the need arise. Just stating that the possiblity is+ Mischa@crystyll: +there is all, trust me when I say there is /no/ personal preference inferred..." Sam@drcrippler holds his hand up. "Look. We don't have the right to barge in and tell them how to do stuff. Our priority is to make sure that this weapon doesn't destroy countless others," he says to everyone. "We DePoe@siskofan1991 perks a brow again "While I hate to contradict myself, that is a direct violation of the Prime Directive..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "If these people want to join the Federation, the Prime Directive is grey here." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "If they wish to apply, they must change their ways." Mischa@crystyll: "And if they pose a threat, it is moot" Sam@drcrippler: will not condone what they do, granted. But we can't force them to change, unless they do want to join. I favour playing on their wish to join us, to try to let them change," DePoe@siskofan1991: Well of course. but they must choose to make the changes. Turning the clones on them, as much as I'd personally like to see that happen, still isn't for us to do. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "A slave uprising is the last thing we want to see, even more so if they get control of that super weapon." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods at Nimitz Sam@drcrippler: "Don't forget. They have shown us nothing but hospitality since our arrival. We need to do the same," Mischa@crystyll: "As I said, no preference was inferred; simply that the research may yield information that may also prove fruitful should it come to such measures" DePoe@siskofan1991 looks at Sam "I'm willing to play diplomat with them as long as they keep that weapon turned off." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods Mischa@crystyll: "And in the mean time, there is a frightened young girl down in sickbay who I am personally responsible for being in her current situation. Her wellbeing is the first matter" Sam@drcrippler: "So am I. And from the looks of it, they want that too. They only use the weapon if people resist to join them. They want to establish closer links with us, since they seem to respect us," DePoe@siskofan1991: Maybe we can show them we don't force others to join us under the threat of a supernova then... Sam@drcrippler: "I don't think we're in danger from them firing on us, rather, they are in danger because they can't control what they have created. Perhaps getting them to understand that will help us..." DePoe@siskofan1991: And help the slaves... with luck anyway. Sam@drcrippler: "I'm sorry to disappoint, but that is not what we're here for," he says DePoe@siskofan1991 nods solemnly "I know..." Sam@drcrippler: "If we manage to save the clones, then so be it. If we can't... then..." he leaves the sentence hanging Mischa@crystyll 's head hangs in knowing silence Sam@drcrippler: "Anything else to report?" DePoe@siskofan1991 nods. As much as he visibly hates it, his expression is also clear what path he'll follow. Weapon first. Clones distant second. Mischa@crystyll: "I believe all our other cultural observations are only supplemental to that you already established from your meeting with the Governor" DePoe@siskofan1991: I belive I stated this already, but+ Sam@drcrippler: "File it in a report. I'll add mine," DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "Very well, Captain." Sam@drcrippler: "You had something to say Captain?" he looks at DePoe. "Sorry, I was addressing my last to Commander Leveson Scott," he chuckles Mischa@crystyll chuckles as well DePoe@siskofan1991: Oh. Yes. I wanted to state the so-called "purebloods" see the clones as mere tools. DePoe@siskofan1991: But most of the clones seem themselves in the same way. They only seem interested in their own narrow worlds, what they were bred or indoctrinated to care about is all they do care about. Sam@drcrippler: "We don't actually know how much sentience the clones have..." he begins DePoe@siskofan1991 shakes his head "This wasn't lack of sentience. It was lack of interest." Mischa@crystyll: "All the more reason for me to get down to sickbay and begin my own assessment of Red" Mischa@crystyll has indeed already made that fata err of naming the pet she knows she can't keep Sam@drcrippler nods. "Well, we don't have much time on that front. Off you go Mischa," he nods DePoe@siskofan1991: Good luck, commander. Mischa@crystyll dips her head, "Sir" glancing to the others, "Captains, it was a pleasure working with you both. I sincerely hope it is not the last such occasion" Sam@drcrippler: "Captains. Thank you for your inputs. Once the main report is filed, I would appreciate if you add your own recommendations. The more the merrier," Mischa@crystyll smiles and turns on her heel, making haste to the turbolift Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: 'Likewise Commander." DePoe@siskofan1991 gives Mischa a wry smirk DePoe@siskofan1991 turns to Sam as she leaves "Honestly captain, you're very lucky to have her as XO. She worked impressively down there." Sam@drcrippler: "She steals all the good missions away from me," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Indeed... however, I will keep my own first officer, it's bad enough he's starting to learning to tell me I can't go on an away mission." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "I don't mean to tell you how to handle your crew, Captain. But if you're going to report her for bringing the clone aboard, well then you need to report myself because i wholeheartedly + DePoe@siskofan1991: support her actions." Sam@drcrippler smiles. "Mischa's a good officer. I can rely on her. Besides, I'm starting to get slower," Sam@drcrippler looks at DePoe. "I have yet to come to that decision," DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "I'm sure Fleet command won't be happy with this in any respect anyway..." Sam@drcrippler: "We'll have to see," he shakes his head "Well, the pair of you are dismissed. I... should go and get changed..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Indeed, I will get settled, I have a few calls to make." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods one last time "You'll have my report tomorrow, captain. As will command. Have a good night." Sam@drcrippler taps the table, before departing DePoe@siskofan1991 glances at Nimitz "Think command will have our heads for this?" he asks. If he's worried about a reprimand, he doesn't show it. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "It's hard to say.... since I was the officer in charge of the away team, my interpretation of the Prime Directive was not violated, and I gave no such order to not intervene." DePoe@siskofan1991: Personally I agree with you, but command... may not. We'll have to see. DePoe@siskofan1991 shrugs "Still we could have done worst. I think all 3 of us were ready to beat the guy senseless by the end." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "If it wasn't for the quick thinking of the Commander.." DePoe@siskofan1991 sighs "I'm sorry to say I would have let him go. As appaling as it was I wasn't about to start a diplomatic incident. Though let me assure you that was my /only/ reason for holding back. The Prime + DePoe@siskofan1991: Directive be damned." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "I've done my fair share of flaunting the Prime Directive once or twice.." DePoe@siskofan1991 shakes his head "Don't get me started... the Prime Directive is there to prevent us from doing something like I hate to say it but- inciting slave rebellions. Not prevent us from saving a species + DePoe@siskofan1991: that's dying anyways. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Indeed..." *Looks off to the side* Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "If you will excuse me Captain.. I need to call my wife." DePoe@siskofan1991 nods "Of course," he says politely.

Part 1

2nd February 2418: Though Red died due to her injuries, her memory was recovered, buying valuable time to recover more information... Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa steps into the blank holodeck, glancing around the emitter-laden walls and gridded floor, "Computer; create new programme: Red-One and show developer console" A moment later, a single standard LCARS console appears in the centre of the room She approaches, linking a small tablet, "Computer; evaluate environmental data from external device. Generate urban social environment from these parameters: terraced, waterfront" the computer acknowledges and scans the tablet. Following a few more moments of calculating, the room shimmers into an uncannily similar view to that surrounding the cafe Mischa visited on the planet. Because production budgets amd set building...(edited) She studies the artificial environment, tappimg the console to make a numer of small tweaks, "ok Computer... access visual representation stored in the medical bay holo buffer and transfer to this program" the physical form of Red appears standing motionless across the console Mischa taps away some more and the npc disappears, then reappears alying down on a lounge bed by the waterfront "Computer; transfer the held neurological pattern from the medical bay matrix. Confirm pattern integrity" Computer; "Neural pattern is at 100% integrity" "Excellent work doctor..." she notes to herself Computer; "Please restate your request" Mkscha frowns up at the thin air, "Computer... transfer neural pattern to npc 'Red' and save program" Computer; "Program saved" Mischa draws a deep breath, already feeling the stress of the fight to get this far as she encircles the frozen Red, "I hope we are doing right by you..."(edited) She looks up, "Computer... Set character 'Red' for controlled medical revival simulation; standard hypo. Remove developer console and... run program..." her gaze slowly drifting down to holo-Red, a soft amd reassuring smile prepared to welcome her as she awakes ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red opens her eyes, and blinks a few times. ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Hello" she looks down at the girl, "Try to relax, you've been through quite the ordeal. Just take your time" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red slowly turns her head. "How... may I help you, ma'am?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "I was actually thinkinf how I might help you" she smiles, "What is the last thing you remember?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I..." she turns her head to look up. "I bought three bolts of cloth instead of five. I made a mistake," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa nods slowly, "That's right. What then?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I was beaten," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 A solemn nod follows, "That was when we found you. Do you remember me?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red sits up, slipping as she moves ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa offers a steadying hand on Red's arm, "Take your time. You may feel a little disorientated at first" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red puts a hand in front of her face. "My eyes are blurry," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Ok, we can help with that. Just try to focus on me for a momemt. Don't worry, nobody is goimg to hurt you now. My name is Mischa, can you tell me yours?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red looks at Mischa, her eyes focusing. "Red 42," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 She smiles, "Good. Mind if I simply call you Red for short?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "You can call me that ma'am," she nods ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "And you can call me Mischa, Red. Now as I mentioned; I'm here because I want to try and help you ok. But to do that I need to run a few tests to make sure tou are well, is that ok?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 The Red stuck out her arm for Mischa as a response. ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa quirks a brow, "I'll take that as a yes. But I don't think what you expect will be necessary. Come on" she smiles, taking Red's hands and encouraging her to her feet ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red obliges, getting to her feet. "My eyes are blurry again madam Mischa," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa chuckles, "How about we try simply 'Mischa'? Now let us try and help with that blurred vision, shall we. Stand still and try to relax" she looks over her shoulder, "I will summon here a small drone. Each time it moves, follow it with your eyes for me, please" She moves away, recalling the console and setting up a calibration tool as an exocomp to appear at different distances. Running a diagnostic on Red's integration and visual perception feedback ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red stands patiently, doing as she's told. The console uses the data to update the integration and shows success when it's complete. ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 When the calibration is complete Mischa returns to Red, "There, how does that feel; better?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red nods meekly. "Yes," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa smiles, "That is good. Now Red, we need to understand your nature so that we can keep making you feel better. Do you understand?"(edited) ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "My nature?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa nods, "To be more precise Red, I need you to understand it. I will try to explain it, and I apologize if this is disconcerting. But I promise that I'm here to help you adapt, ok?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "My nature is to serve, madam Mischa," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 She smiles softly, "That is not quite the context I had in mind, but we will return to that poimt shortly. Red, you said you remember when the Pure hurt you before?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "Yes," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Well, your injuries were severe. Our doctors tried their best to save your body but were unable. They were however, able to save your mind in this new body you now possess..." she pauses, judging Red's comprehension of this and reaction before proceeding ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I... do not understand..." she looks at her hands. "My body is not real?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Real is a very perceptual term, Red. Your body is different, nothing more. Real is relative to the person you are, not your body; that is simply... changed"(edited) ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red blinks ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Ok..." Mischa starts, taking Red's hand in her own and giving it a gentle squeeze, "You feel this, yes? It is that feeling which makes it real" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "My feelings make me real?" she says, looking at Mischa's hand ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Of course" she smiles, "If you feel something; if your senses tell you it is there. Then it is real, yes?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I suppose," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "See" she smiles giving Red's hand an encoiraging squeeze, "I understand that this is difficult, Red. Don't worry, you are doing great! Now, the only thing that has changed in your recovery is that your physical form is no longer biological in makeup, but holographic." ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "Will that prevent me from doing my job to serve?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Red, you are no longer required to serve in the manner which you did previously. It will take time to explain..." ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red looks up at Mischa with wide eyes, not understanding. "If... I can no longer serve... What is my function?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "You could help me to understand your people better if you like. In return, maybe I can help you finda new function. We have a concept here Red that is considered most sacred; free will. I will do my best to help you comprehend this and find your way with it. But first I need to be certain that you understand how you are holographic now?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I think so. My body died but my feeling was transferred into this new body?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa nods with a smile, "Correct Red, very good! Now part of this meams that your physical form can only exist where we have holo emitters that can display it,. For example, this place; I assume you recognise it?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "This is Dever Café, 4th Lancing Road," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "As it appears" she smiles, "However this is in fact a very special place! We are currently in a room on our ship, we call it a holodeck. This special room can let you be anywhere you like, Red. Let's see... tell me some place you always wanted to visit" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "Erm..." Red thinks. "There was... A place that people used to say was nice. It was... A park?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa smiles, "Ok, let's see now... Computer; adjust environment. New parameters; Hyde park, London. Minimal activity, sprimg day" she watches, taking Red's hand as the environment shifts ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red jumps and buries her head into Mischa's arm, terrified at the changing scenery ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa shushes her softly, holding an arm around Red, "It's ok, a little disorientation is only natural. Don't worry I am right here amd won't let anything happen to you Red, I promise" she adds a reassuring squeeze, "Now take your time and look" she smiles ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red peeks out slowly. "It's different," she squeaks ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Yes" Mischa smiles, "This is a park. A very big and beautiful one from my home world" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "This is a park?" she looks around. "This... Is a field. Where are the the Black Colours?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "We do not have subservient colours on my planet. Everyone is treated like a pure, regardless of their colour" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "But how... Who does all the jobs? Who farms the fields?" she looks around the park and then shivers as a breeze blows. Because it's spring. And Britain. ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Oh people still do the jobs, but because they choose to. Not because they are pre-disposed to it." She smiles at the shiver, "See now, doesn't that feel perfectly real?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "Very real," she nods shivering again ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Is it a bit chilly for you? This place may have a different climate to that which you are used to. What is an optimal ambient temperature for you?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "Most of the time, the Pures like the room at 25.1 degrees"(edited) ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "But what about you Red? What is /your/ preference?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I don't have any preferences," she says after a moment's pause ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Well..." Mischa thinks, "...Do you like it when the Pures make it 25.1 degrees or do you find that either too warm, or too cold?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 I... find it too warm," she says quietly(edited) ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa smiles, "Then I would surmise that you in fact have a cooler preference. Let us try, see how this feels. Computer; adjust ambiemt temperature to... 21.5 degrees" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red stops shivering. "This is nice," she smiles letting go of Mischa slightly Mischa 02/02/2019 "There you go, see. Turns out you do have a preference after all" she smiles. This place can let you experience anywhere you can imagine. Because it is very special, holographic; like you" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Pauses "I'm... not special," she states matter of factly ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Now that is a cultural difference between your people and mine. We consider all sentient life as special, and even if you do not subscribe to that; look at where yu are Red; you are experiencing things that you desire, learning about your free will. Even ny comparison alone I suspect that makes you a very special Red" she smiles ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "I'm not special," she repeats, but then turns and smiles. "Thank you for showing me this park," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Perhaps you would like to come back and explore it later? But first, how about I show you this special room for what it physically is?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 "Is it going to change again?" ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 Mischa nods and offers Red her hand, "We can soon change it back, don't worry. I am right here with you. Are you ready?" ________________ Sam 02/02/2019 Red moves in close to Mischa again, squeezing her hand. "Yes," ________________ Mischa 02/02/2019 "Ok here we go" she smiles, holding Red's hand tight, "Computer; remove all environmental renderings" Everything but Red ripples away to show the bare holodeck ________________ February 3, 2019 Sam 02/03/2019 Red squeaks again, and squeezes Mischa's had tightly, but doesn't move. "This... This is the real room?" ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa nods, "This is a place on our ship. It has the technology that lets this room take you to all the wonderful places like the park. It is the same technology that now keeps you alive. Do you understand?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Yes," she nods. "Is this how you visit places? It's like a transporter. You step in and go to another place," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "It's... well, it's how /you/ can visit places now, Red. In time we may find a better way. But this is very imprtant now; the technology in here that keeps you alive as a hologram is only in this room. So when I step out of that door over there, you can't follow. This is very important Red, I don't want anything to happen to you" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Oh," her face falls. "What will I do here?" ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa's face drops sympathetically before brightening into a warm smile, "From here Red; you can do anything you might possibly dream of! I will help you learn how to explore here if you like. But for now, how would you like to spend some time visiting the park again?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "That would be good," she nods, unsure of herself ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa takes her hand with a comforting squeeze as she calls back the park, "Now Red, I know this has been a lot to take in for you. So how about I leave you to explore the park here a while and gather your thoughts? I promise I will return soon" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Okay," she nods ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa considers her a moment, "Computer; give me a combadge. Guest restrictions and link to my own on non-restricted array" a delta appears in Mischa's outstretched hand "Here" she smiles, pinning it to Red's top, "Just like mine, see? Now if you need anything. Anything at all, or you get scared or lonely, I want you to tap it like this-" she demonstrates, "and just say my name. Ok?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Yes madam Mischa," she bows her head. ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 She chuckles, "And you really don't need to be so formal, Red. I am not your owner, or master, or however you are accustomed. I am your friend, or at least... I'd like to be" smiling as she encourages Red out of the bow, "Noe try to enjoy yourself ok? I won't be long and now am just a comm call away. Why don't you... explore the park, see if you can find any more preferences you didn't know you had?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Red blushes, though you wouldn't notice by looking at her, before turning and taking a few tentative steps into the park ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa pauses and watches briefly, a sadness in her eyes as she watches before satisfied that Red will be ok on her own for a short time. Though she did not want to leave her longer than necessary, she called the arch and stepped outside. Tapping her combadge, "Leveson-Scott to Bishop" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Go for Bishop," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Sir, I'm happy to report that we have successfully recovered the Red on the holodeck. She is fragile and barely comprehends her existence, but early signs show that there is lokely more depth of character which has been suppressed, rather than the anticipated lack thereof" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Good job Mischa. Have you learnt anything else from her?" ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Nothing of use to our negotiations yet, Sir. This is very early in an imcredibly delicate recovery process; results will take time. I will continue to build on the bond of trust I have started to form with her and keep you posted" "Also, if Captain Nimitz is with you - as I suspect - he was interested in pursuing this with me and I feel now would be a good time to introduce him to her new world" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Noted. Mischa... Thinking ahead. What are you planning to do with the holographic Red once this is over?" ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Honestly Sir, this has all been so reactive I have not been able to effectively plan that far in front. At present I am hopeful that she will remain stable in this form and, well, I have to speak to some external sources for guidance beyond the holodeck." ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Okay. Just be aware that... We may have to terminate her program if it's unsustainable," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "I understand Sir, that is why I'm being so attentive with her recovery period. But we always knew that would be a possibility. I just want to be sure we give her every reasonable chance of living" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Get on it then Mischa. Don't push her too hard, but see if you can get any information out of her. You know what to do. Bishop out." ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 She sighs softly, leaning against the wall feeling like it's her first pause for thought since they beamed to the planet surface. She glances left amd right down the corridor, deciding it best to wait for Captain Nimitz before returning... ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Sure enough, Captain Nimitz comes down the hallway, walking with his typical Romulan pride like he owns the ship, giving Mischa a nod as he approches. "Commander." ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Captain" she smiles, pushing clear of the wall and standing straight, "Glad you could join me. She is inside, is there anything specific you wish to know before we join her?" ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 "Anything you feel is important for me to know? ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa hrms, "Well, she is identifying as 'Red'. Her mental state is... largely as expected. She is frightened and barely comprehends the world around her. But... I have picked up on indicators that she possesses an individual personality, it is simlly repressed... heavily" ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Gives a nod as he thinks over in his head on a few ideas "I might be able to help with that.. if you will permit me." ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "That is why we are returning" she smiles, "Shall we?" She gestures to the door ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Gives a nod as he walks towards the holodeck doors, stepping inside first. ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Inside they find themselves standing in London's Hyde park on a warm summer day Mischa looks around to spot Red ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Red is crouched by a bush, looking at something intently. It's a butterfly ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa holds a hand to her mouth, smiling intently as she watches a moment ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "What is this?" she mutters to herself. "Is it... a pigeon?" ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "It's called a butterfly" Mischa offers as she approaches, "It looks like you are enjoying your explorations, Red" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 She turns sharply and stands, bowing her head. "I was curious Mad... Mischa," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa takes her hands proudly, "That is the fun of exploring! Now Red, I'd like you to meet my friend - Captain Nimitz. He was there when we first found you and also wanted to see how you are" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Red looks up at Nimitz. And then further up. And then further up, until she can finally see his face. "Captain Nimitz. How may I serve you?" ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Kneels down so she doesn't have to strain her neck to look at his face. "Good evening, you may call me Alistair.. we have questions about your world.. if you feel up to answering." ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "I would..." she looks at Mischa. "Like to help if I can," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa nods, kneeling at Red's side amd resting a hand on her shoulder, "We would be very grateful to you Red. Just take your time amd do your best" she smiles ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 He looks around the holodeck at the current simulation. "With your permission Red, I'd like to show you something." ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Looks at Nimitz. "My permission?" ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Gives a nod to Red. "Yes." ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Looks between the pair. "I don't know... How to respond..." ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 "Well, I'd like to know if you are okay with me changing the holodeck program to show something else besides this park." ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Just like before, Red. You are enjoying this space and it would be wrong for us to change it without your consent." She offers her hand again before the disorientation ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Erm... Yes..." she takes Mischa's hand. "You can change it," ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Gives a nod in thanks, and reaches into his pocket. He extracts a small green colored isolinear chip. He walks over to the archway and inserts it. "Computer, run program Nimitz zero-two-five." The holodeck changes, the three find themselves standing in the backyard garden of a grand, as well as old, Romulan mansion. On the horizon the vast city of Ki Baratan sits. "This is my childhood home Red.. shall we head inside?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Red squeezes Mischa's hand tightly as the scene changes. She nods meekly ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Something new to explore" she smiles, "Remember Red, this is for you, not either of us; so take as much time as you need. We're right here with you" ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 He leads the way inside the old house, pushing open the massive double doors. Highly detailed with the history of his family tree, in the center of one door, The Terran alphabet letter C is visible. "When I was young, I was molded to follow a strict path that had been laid out for me by my ancestors, trained from a young age to do one thing in life." He leads the way down the hall and into a very comfortable study room, many books with Romulan writing sitting on the walls, and hanging behind the desk at the end of the room sat a painting of what looked like a Starfleet Ambassador class in the process of being destroyed. "This was my father's study.. he was a very proud man." Gestures around the room for one of the two sofas. "Please, sit and make yourself comfortable." Offers a smile to Red. ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Walks in, hand in hand with Mischa, not leaving her side ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 Mischa holds steady at Red's side, keeping the movement but trying to let Red lead to a sitting spot ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 “I understand that you are a personal assistant, right? That was your role?” ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Yes," she says, but she doesn't sit, waiting for the others to sit first ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Doesn’t take a seat, but he does that teacher thing where he half leans and half sits on the desk, folding his arms. “Are you able to tell us more details about other colors and their role on your planet?” ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Continues to hold Mischa's hand. "What would you like to know? I will assist as I can," ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 "Well... first, what can you tell us about the Blues?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "The Blues work shops. I meet them all the time when I run errands," ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Gives a nod “What about yellow, greens, pinks?” ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Greens are important. I don't know what they do exactly. Pinks I think run transport. I don't know about any yellows," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "A green was manning the information terminal I got our passes from" she adds in ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "I see them with people though. They're not reds like me," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Interesting. And you said to me earlier about blacks tending parks? And we saw whites at the facility, browns working as... law enforcement?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Blacks don't tend parks. Or I don't think they do. They normally work in the fields or in the mines," "Browns are scary, and the whites are rude," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Aah of course, that makes sense. And... yes, we found that with the whites..." ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 Red nods and looks around the room, before looking back at the other two. "Is there anything else I can help with?" ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Looks between the two as he folds his arms again. "Do you mind if I ask how long you have been in service?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Three years," ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 "What work did your... owner do?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "He sold clothes," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Is that three years with that specific owner, or in total?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "In total. All three years with that owner," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "I see. Interesting" she notes, thinking on what they learned in sickbay before, "Red what can you tell me about your colour, the reds?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "I do jobs that my owner tells me to do," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Right, a personal assistant of sorts you said? But what about reds as a whole, or even the wider culture around the colours and the Pures?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Erm," she thinks. "Well... we work, so the Pures don't have to," ________________ Mischa 02/03/2019 "Indeed. Do you know how long this has been the case?" ________________ Sam 02/03/2019 "Forever," ________________ Nimitz 02/03/2019 Slowly nods "What can you tell us about Ace?" ________________ February 4, 2019 Sam 02/04/2019 "Ace is our glorious leader," ________________ Nimitz 02/04/2019 "Do you know anything more about him? How old he is? How long he's been in power?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "For as long as there have been Nelaraans, there has been Ace," ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Have you ever attended an Ace Day celebration with other Reds? We witnessed such a thing recently but seemed exclusively Yellows" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "I have. On Ace Day, we all go to the town hall and celebrate there. The Reds who have completed ten years of service are given retirement," ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "10 years? Curious... did anyone ever tell about retirement? It sounds like a great reward after such a length of service" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red nods and smiles. "It's wonderful. You don't have to ever work. Some say that you become Pure after retirement, but I think that's a load of rubbish. I think retirement is like going to the park and never leaving," she beams ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "I see..." she casts an uneasy glance to Nimitz , "What about your lifestyle Red? On the planet we heard news about... a supplement shortage, or something?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "Oh yes. The pills shortage. Owners have been instructed to recycle non-essential clones, and to make sure that all clones are recycled. Owners have also been instructed to limit pill use to one per day," she recites ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Recycle... non-essential clones...?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red nods. "I know Red 4 and Red 1012 were recycled two days ago. I don't know what that means though. I've not seen them since," ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa squeezes Red's hand as she looks across again, uncertain if they should share what they know at this point ________________ Nimitz 02/04/2019 "What number are you?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "Red 41!" Red smiles ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa looks back to Red, shifting slighty in her seat to face the girl squarely, "Red, what if I told you that our investigations on Nelara so far had provided us with further insight into this whole process, but that it was not as you believe amd in fact may be quite troubling to learn? I believe you have a right to know, but I don't want to present you with anything upsetting if you do not feel comfortable with it"(edited) ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "What insight?" she asks Mischa. ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Well..." she starts hesitantly, "when the colours are recycled, it means they are... repurposed, their energy converted into the supplement pills. That is why we believe there is a shortage. Since as Pure society grows; clone numbers increase; but the increase is imbalanced against the lifecycle of different colours - which also seems to vary depending on their nature..." she pauses, looking to Red and giving her hand another squeeze of reassurance ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "I... I don't understand..." she says, before falling onto the sofa heavily and holding her head. Her hologram flickers slightly. ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa hugs her tightly, "Don't worry Red, None of that will happen to you now. You are safe here, I promise. I am so sorry to be telling you this, but it would not be fair to lie to you about it" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red doesn't respond, and her hologram keeps flickering. [COMP] "Warning, holodeck malfunction. Program ending" ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa frowns at the malfunction, liftjng Red's chin to bringher eyeline to meet her own, "Red, listen to me; I know this is difficult to process but please try to stay calm. Focus on me Red; I'm here and not letting go" she offers reassuringly ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red blinks at Mischa, not seeming to comprehend, before she disappears, along with the room. [COMP] "Simulation ended successfully, diagnostic report generated." ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa sighs, "Computer, diagnose program corruption and reload saved parameters from last integration marker"(edited) ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 [COMP] "Hologram titled "Red" has suffered from a 12% loss of her neural network. Reloading simulation," The program starts again, and they find themselves back in the house Red blinks. "Madam Mischa, Captain Nimitz ," ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa smiles sadly, "Hello Red, how are you doing today? And please, just Mischa is fine" she takes her hands with a welcoming gentle squeeze ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red blushes. "I'm sorry," she bows her head ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 She smiles softly, chucking Red's chin with a fingertip, "Red you have nothing to be sorry for. If anything I owe you an apology. It seems we erred with some of the code that allows you exist here, don't worry though; we should have it corrected now. How are you feeling?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "I feel... a strange pain in my head. It feels like... a dull throb, as if a bird was flapping it's wings in my head," ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 Mischa's sad smile shows as she raises a hand to Red's temple, brushing her back, "That is a side effect of the error. It should pass soon enough, but please tell me if it doesn't fade soon, ok?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red nods meekly. "Sorry, you wanted to know my number. I am Red 41," ________________ Nimitz 02/04/2019 Nimitz smiles to Red 41, trying to mask his sympathies for her. “Thank you red, you’ve been very helpful, however I have to depart now.” He starts making his way out of the holodeck. ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "Are you going too Miss Mischa?" she looks over at her ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "I think it might be best Red, maybe give you a chance to rest while your head hurts, yes? Would you like to go back and explore the park some more in the mean time, or somewhere new maybe?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red frowns. "The park?" ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "You... don't remember our visit there earlier?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "No?" ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Oh, that's ok" she smiles, saddened that the butterfly momemt from earlier is lost on her, "But you remember where we are, yes? And how you are holographic now so you can explore all these wonderful places?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "Yes... I think so," she nods. "Can you not stay with me?" ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "As long as you are certain you wouldn't prefer aa rest?" She smiles ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "I might... Require rest..." she nods slowly ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Tell you what..." she smiles, taking Red's hand. I'll come with you to visit the park again, and I will stay with you until you find a nice place to get some rest and fall asleep. How does that sound? If I'm not back you wake up, you have your badge to call me with. Ready to go?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red smiles and nods ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Ok, don't worry; you seemed to enjoy it here last time so we'll make sure to make you forgrt this time! Computer; change environment; Hyde Park, London with previous parameters". She watches as the world shifts around them, looking to Red's reaction at seeing the park again, maybe hopeful that it prompts some memory of their key time there earlier. Sam 02/04/2019 "No?" ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Oh, that's ok" she smiles, saddened that the butterfly momemt from earlier is lost on her, "But you remember where we are, yes? And how you are holographic now so you can explore all these wonderful places?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "Yes... I think so," she nods. "Can you not stay with me?" ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "As long as you are certain you wouldn't prefer aa rest?" She smiles ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 "I might... Require rest..." she nods slowly ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Tell you what..." she smiles, taking Red's hand. I'll come with you to visit the park again, and I will stay with you until you find a nice place to get some rest and fall asleep. How does that sound? If I'm not back you wake up, you have your badge to call me with. Ready to go?" ________________ Sam 02/04/2019 Red smiles and nods ________________ Mischa 02/04/2019 "Ok, don't worry; you seemed to enjoy it here last time so we'll make sure to make you forgrt this time! Computer; change environment; Hyde Park, London with previous parameters". She watches as the world shifts around them, looking to Red's reaction at seeing the park again, maybe hopeful that it prompts some memory of their key time there earlier. ________________ February 5, 2019 Sam 02/05/2019 Red isn't too unfazed by the change anymore, but does keep a hold of Mischa's hand. "This place looks nice," ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "It's a place on my homeworld where people cam go to explore and relax. Go ahead, this is your space now. I'm right here with you still" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red takes a few tentative steps forward looking around. "This place reminds me of fields. Where are all the Black Colours?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa chuckles at the mirrored wuestioning, "There are no blacks here, Red. No colours at all in fact. At leadt, none in subservient roles" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "Who does all the work then?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "People do the work. But because it is what they want to do, not through any pre-disposition to do it. They make a conscious decision of their own free will" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red thinks about it for a moment. "Do I have free will?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "I believe you do, Red. I fear you have been trained not to use it. But I believe in you. Do tou remember our talk before about the temperature?" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "No?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "At first it was a little cold for you in here, then I asked what your preference would be. You told me that Pures like it around 25 degrees, but that you preferred it a litte cooler than that. Do you know now what you maybe told me you preferred?" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red thinks. "I'm not sure... What temperature is it now?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "It is currently 21.5 degrees" she smiles ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "This is okay then," she reciprocates the smile ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "And this is the temperature you asked for earlier" she smiles, squeezing Red's hand, "So you see Red; that you formulated and expressed a personal preference means you do indeed have your own free will and the ability to act on it" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Thinks on that. "Hmm," ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa quietly studies Red's reaction ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "What else can you do with Free Will?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 She smiles, "You can do whatever you want; obviously rules of society still apply, but you can decide things for yourself" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "What if I don't know what I want?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "That's ok" she chuckles, "In time you will experience things and discover what you want; like with the temperature. I'd like to try and help you, if you want me to of course" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red nods. "Please," ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "Then why don't you start by taking some time to explore the park? And when you feel like you're ready for a rest we can find somewhere suitable" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red looks around. "The park is so big. I don't know where to go," ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "That's the fun of exploring!" She smiles, just... take a look around. See what you can spot in each direction and go explore whichever feels most interesting" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red looks around. "Is there a lake over there?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa peers over, "You know, I'm not entirely certain! Want to go see?" Her eyes glisten with the excitement of possibility ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red beams, nodding eagerly. ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "Come on then!" She chirps, extending a hand, inviting Red to her side for an exciting adventure! ...walking through the park... Sam 02/05/2019 Red grabs Mischa's hand, bubbling at the prospect of exploring the park. <C> Biaan to Commander Leveson-Scott ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa pauses, "Go on Red, I'm right here still" she smiles before tapping her badge, <c> "Go ahead" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red looks back briefly, before carrying onwards, slower. <C> Commander, it's the Captain. He's been admitted into sickbay. ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa remains close to Red, hanging back to speak freely while keeping an eye on her, "What is his condition?" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 <C> He's severely dehydrated, he looks whiter than an Aenar in the snow, and claims his head feels like someone's moving... rocks to build Stonehenge? Whatever that means... anyway, he's in no state to command. ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 <c> "Acknowledged. Keep me apprised of his condition" she taps off the comm and again for a new call, "Leveson-Scott to T'Lyra"(edited) ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 <C> T'Lyra here. How may I assist Commander? ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 <c> The Captain has been taken ill so I am assumimg command until he recovers. What is your present status? ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 <C> Commander, we are currently attempting to repair the damage on Deck 10 caused by a power surge due to an increased use of energy in Holodeck 8. The Captain listed it as a priority repair since we are expecting a very important guest. ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 <c> "Acknowledged. Maintain your priorities for now; stable power flow to holodeck 8 is of the upmost importance. Leveson-Scott out" she sighs, looking around for Red ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red is looking at a duck waddle towards the pool, an army of little ducklings waddling after their mother. She tilts her head as they go past her(edited) ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 A smile forms on Mischa's face as she watches, "Cute, aren't they?" She offers, approaching after a moment ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "Is this big one in charge? Are the yellows ones its colours?" she looks at Mischa ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 She chuckles, "They are a family. The yellow ones are the offspring of the big one; the mother. Look Red, I am ever so sorry but I'm afraid I must leave you for a while now. But I think you have plenty here to explore here for now, yes?" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "Mother?" she looks at Mischa curiously. "Oh... are you going now?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 "Yes, my Captain is ill so I must see to some duties" she takes Red's hand with a smile, "I am still only a comm call away if you need me, and I will ask another friend to come amd keep you keep you company until I return. Does that sound ok to you?" ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 "Okay," she nods with a small smile ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa gives her hamd a gentle squeeze before letting go, "I look forward to learning about your exploration later! Have fun, Red" she smiles, moving to the exit ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 Red watches Mischa leave, before watching the ducks again. ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa taps her comm again after calling the arch, <c> Leveson-Scott to LT Maia ________________ Ann 02/05/2019 <C> "Maia here. What can I do for you, Commander?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 <c> Lieutenant, I have a special guest in holodeck 8; I apologize for lack of prep time, but I am needed elsewhere and need you to look after her for me. She is stable, but I would feel better with a sympathetic ear there. Someone to keep an eye on her until I return" ________________ Ann 02/05/2019 <C> "I'll head up there immediately. Anything else you can tell me about this guest in the meantime?" ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 <c> she is a holo-revival of the Nelaran clone from sickbay. She barely comprehends the nature of her existence and struggles to process the truths we learned about her people. I have been focusing her on exploring a park as she learns to exercise her free will she continues the dialogue ehile en route to the bridge ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 ---END---

Part 2

5th February 2418: Red is enjoying her time in the holodeck. But other people would like to interact to her... Mischa 02/05/2019 After recovering from her brief illness, Mischa returns to the holodeck to check on Red, ahead of Captain Morton's arrival. She enters the doorway with a curious glance to size up the current environment amd locate Red ________________ Sam 02/05/2019 The environment looks very familiar to Mischa, who soon realised that its the coffee shop Red first awoke in. She sits in a chair on the balcony and is watching everything go by. ________________ Mischa 02/05/2019 Mischa smiles at the sight, "Hello Red. Enjoying the familiarity?" She greets on approach to Red's table ________________ February 6, 2019 Sam 02/06/2019 Red turns. "Hello Miss Mischa," ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "How are you doing, Red, I see we are back on Nelara now" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "I didn't know where else to go," ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa aww's, "Did you find anything else interesting in the park with LT Maia?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "There were some birds that we saw. They looked very different than the birds on Nelara," she frowns ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa ponders the frown amd smiles, "It is only to be expected; you were peeking at a whole new world after all! So, would you like to do anything particular today?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red looks out over the view again. "I don't know. Normally I would be following my owner around in case he needed me," ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "I appreciate that suddenly having freedom can feel disconcerting." She hrms,"Let us start with broad spokes; do yoy think you would like to experience something new again, or share something you are more familiar with?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Hmmm," she thinks. "What would you like to do Miss Mischa? I can experience something with you," ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 She smiles, "Well I always enjoy experiencing new things" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Let's do that then," she smiles. "Oh... Miss Mischa?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "Yes, Red?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Yesterday, you said that those creatures were a... fam lee?" she tilts her head. "What does that mean?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "They are called ducks by the way; the creatures we saw" she smiles, "As for the family term; in this instance it describes a group who consist of parents and offspring. This is formed from the natural evolution of many biological lifeforms which use procreation as the primary means of continuing the species. The term is often used too in reference to more of a purely social bond" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Oh," she nods. "I have heard the term before, but I didn't know what it meant," she thinks. "Do I have a family? Is it my owner?" Mischa 02/06/2019 "Ok first thing Red, you no longer have an owner" she smiles, "As for family; you were not born of such means so no; you do not have family in this same sense. However, in time... you may find you feel close enough to another person to regard them with closeness of family" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red thinks again. "Can I regard you as my family?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "I would be honoured" she smiles, offering Red her hand, "Come on then, ready to try exploring some new things?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red beams and takes Mischa's hand. "Where are we going to go?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "I thought it might be nice to explore doing different things today instead of simply seeing them. So we can visit am arts &crafts fair!" She smiles before ordering the computer to generate the appropriate environment and standard variety ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Arts and Crafts? What is that?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa smiles, "It's a whole variety of creative things people can do for fun. You'll see!" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red keeps a tight hold on Mischa's hand as she looks around ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 their environment shifts to that of a typical english village. The large green before them hosts a moderate marquee with numerous stalls around the outside of it. There is a small crowd in good spirits around a pleasant village fete atmosphere ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red looks around. "There's so many Pures here. I've never seen this many all at once," she shuffles a bit closer to Mischa ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa holds an arm around Red, "We can make it less crowded if that would feel more comfortable?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red looks up to Mischa. "I think it might be nicer," she smiles slowly ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 with a nod amd a reassuring smile, Mischa has the crowd reduced to a minimum, slightly quieter average than as seen on Nelara(edited) "How's that?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "This is better," she nods ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "Well then, how abouut we take a look around? You will find all these different stalls have different activities you can try. Shall we try and find something that you might like to try?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red looks around. "Oh, it's those small ducks we saw yesterday," she points to one of those hook a duck stalls ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "Aah yes" Mischa smiles, that is a game stall where you have to try and catch them; a test of hand-eye coordination if you will. Go ahead amd have a go if you like" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red bundles over to the stall and reaches in to grab a duck. "Got one! " she beams ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa laughs, "Good job, Red! But... let's try playing the game of skill to catch it, shall we?" She picks up a hook and attempts to snag one, managing after a few calculated misses to demonstrate the challenge, "There! See Red? You can challenge yourself amd the feeling of satisfaction when you succeed is what makes it rewarding" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red picks up the hook and almost whacks Mischa in the face with it accidentally ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Chuvkling as she dodges, Mischa encourages Red to a softer approach, demomstrating alongside her ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red watches Mischa carefully, before trying again. She knocks the ducks but isn't able to hook them. "This is difficult," ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa nods, "It is meant to be a challenge. That way wjen you did succeed, the feeling is so much rewarding because you have conquered the challenge" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Can you show me again?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa helps Red, showing again and guiding her along ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red comes close to hooking one of the ducks but it tumbles into the water as she lifts it up. "Grrr," ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa helps Red, showing again and guiding her along "Almost! You're gettimg there, but don't worry if you miss. The challenge is meant so you miss more than win, else it wouldn't be a challenge" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 "Why would you make things hard? I don't understand," she huffs ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "It is... difficult to explain. But the feeling of elation after beating something hard is greater than beating something easy. That drive to conquer challenges is what pushes species like mine to develop and better themselves" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red puts the rod down. "Can we do something else?" Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa hugs her, "Of course! The whole reason we came here is to fimd things you do and dont like. Now we know you dont like hook a duck!" She looks around, spotting a stand doing drawings and paimtings, "Lets have a look at this..." ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red looks at the stand inquisitively. "Oh, I've seen this before! You put those colours onto the paper, right?" ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 "That's right" she smiles, "This is more about creative expression than any kind of challenge. Would you like to try?" ________________ Sam 02/06/2019 Red nods and goes for the red paint, beginning to draw two people ________________ Mischa 02/06/2019 Mischa stands back quietly watching as Red works away ________________ February 7, 2019 Coby02/07/2019 After a long moment, and his winding walk towards the holodeck, Coby arrives at the archway. "Holodeck .... 8?" he starts, to himself, smirking only to catch an odd-glance from a passing Endeavour-naught. Chiming the doorway as to not abruptly interrupt. ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 Mischa steps back, allowing Red toncontinue uninterrupted, "Computer; arch". She ssmiles to see the door open to reveal Coby, "Captain Morton. Glad you could join us" ________________ Coby02/07/2019 With an instant growth in his smile, he calmly steps forward onto the holodeck. His eyes do a brief transverse of the running program, and then straight to Mischa. "Commander Leveson-Scott, s'always a pleasure." His voice was a little quieter than usual, perhaps as to not make his entrance too disruptive for Red. ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 Red's tongue sticks out as she continues her very important painting ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 She glances back to Red, "We have been working on expression of thought in attempt to assert her free will. She got damaged by a previous attempt to reconcile her with cold hard truths we know about the clones on Nelara. So now I am proceeding with caution..." glances again, "...and painting apparently" ________________ Coby02/07/2019 The October's Captain pursed his lips, impressed by the though which was shown also in a little few bobs of his head. He looked over to Red, hard at work. "Nothin' wrong with a bit of painting. Love some water colours, me." he paused, tilting his head some, "How serious was the damage?" ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 Mischa sighs sofly, "The memory lapse was minimal, though regrettable in some ways. However the integrity of her neural pattern dropped by approximately 12%" ________________ Coby02/07/2019 The man's pursed lips turn a little less happy. "12% is pretty significant in the long run, I can see why you'd want to be cautious. Any recovery on that?"(edited) ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 "Nothing yet. Our staff is sadly working at peak just to sustain a stable power flow..." shakes her head at that, "I know an expert in this field who I plan to consult, I just need to try and help Red find herself in the mean time" ________________ Coby02/07/2019 "Understood," he starts, "I'd certainly like to hear how that progresses, if you wouldn't mind when your expert has a moment. In the meantime, mind if I say hello? Bit of a rarity I get chance to speak with the dead." ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 She chuckles, gesturing towards the holoclone, "By all means". Walking the short diastance with him to approach, "You seem to be enjoying yourself, Red. I have a friend here who would like to meet you" ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 Red looks to Mischa. "Is it... Captain Nimitz?" ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 "No Red, this is someone new" she smiles, gesturing to Coby ________________ Coby02/07/2019 His smirk reappears for a moment, before fading to his natural soft smile. "Allo Red," he pauses, his right hand rises and tugs subtly at his grey-shouldered uniform tunic, undoing it just a little. "I'm Coby, s'nice to meet you. What're you up to over here?" ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 Red turns her image around to show two people standing side by side. The painting shows the basic features of the person, though it's no masterpiece. The only paint she used was the red one. "I was painting Mister Coby," she dips her head slightly ________________ Coby 02/07/2019 Coby bobbed his head softly, turning a look to the no-masterpiece bit of work. "Nice colour you've chosen there. Red's my favourite colour, y'know." the hand that'd just tugged at his collar now taps his little red-stripe across his chest. "Are they friends of yours?" he indicates back to the painting. ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 She shakes her head. "No," she says. "It is my family," she glances at Mischa ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 Mischa's cheeks flush a tad, "That is very sweet, Red." ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 "Thank you Miss Mischa," she beams ________________ Coby 02/07/2019 He glanced between the two, observing the sweet interaction with another smile before looking back towards Red, crouching down just a fraction. "Say, Red. Have you always liked painting?" ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 "I don't know," she shrugs. "One of my owners liked to paint. I'd hold the paint as she painted," ________________ Coby 02/07/2019 Coby raised a brow, "But you didn't used to paint yourself?" ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 "No," she shakes her head ________________ Coby 02/07/2019 "Fair enough, Red!" he straightens. "I suppose if I were holding paint up for someone else to paint all the time, I'd certainly not have the appetite for it. Well, you seem to be enjoying it now at anyrate, yeah?" ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 "It is okay," she nods ________________ Coby 02/07/2019 Coby adds, "What else have you been doing during your time with Commander Levescott, here?" ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 "We've looked at ducks," "And tried to catch them," she points over to the hook a duck stall ________________ Mischa 02/07/2019 "That one wasn't so fun..." she notes ________________ Sam 02/07/2019 "No, that was difficult," ________________ February 8, 2019 Coby 02/08/2019 He thought for just a moment, "I take it you've never had much opportunity to play those sorts of games?" pausing, "I was never any good at them either." ________________ Sam 02/08/2019 "I don't play games," she says ________________ February 10, 2019 Coby 02/10/2019 Coby snorted, tilting his head somewhat as he looked towards the Endeavour's XO. His face winced very subtly, but just for a short moment before his msile reappeared. "... Thankyou for letting me pop by, Commander. I was certainly curious." ________________ Mischa 02/10/2019 Mischa dips her head with a smile, "Always a pleasure, Sir" ________________ Coby 02/10/2019 Coby dipped his head in return and offered the holographic Red another glance. "Enjoy your painting." he says, softly, and offers another faint smile towards Mischa, departing the holosuite ________________ Sam 02/10/2019 Red smiles at him, before grabbing the painting and going over to Mischa. "This is for you Miss Mischa," she smiles, handing it to her ________________ Mischa 02/10/2019 Mischa smiles warmly, admiring it, "Why thank you Red. So come on, what would you like to do now?" ________________ Sam 02/10/2019 "There's a lot of things to see here, we should explore," she tugs Mischa's arm ________________ Mischa 02/10/2019 "Well how can I argue with that! Lead on!" She laughs ________________ Sam 02/10/2019 Red leads Mischa down to the food stalls ________________ Mischa 02/10/2019 "Lots of new experiences down here Red. See anything tjat appeals?" ________________ Mischa 02/10/2019 She taps at her PADD as they explore, instructing the program to save the image drawn and export to her personal database ________________ February 11, 2019 Mischa 02/11/2019 The pair spend considerable time further exploring the food stalls, with Red further educating Mischa with her take on their supplement pills and learning in kind about 'Pure' foods; particularly sweets... -----END-----

Part 3

11th February 2418: Under orders from the Admiral to purge the Red holoprogram, Mischa assumes personal responsibility for the task and pays the girl one final visit... Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa enters the holodeck to find Red once again back in the reproduction of the Nelaran city. She smiles a sad smile as she watches the girl a moment before approaching, "Hello Red" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red is sat at the café, looking out over the balcony again. "Miss Mischa!" Red bounds over to give Mischa a hug ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa almost chokes up right there as she hugs Red, "You are in good spirits today I see" she smiles ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Oh, because I tried to use the computer as you taught me, and I created the hook a duck game, and I caught the duck like you!" she beams ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 "See now, that smile tells me you found the success very gratifying" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "It was, I wanted to show you!" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 "That does sound fun Red, but I actually thought we might show you something new today" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Oh?" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa smiles gently, "Yes, nothing so fancy or adventurous though Red. But since I've had a taste of your home, I thought it would be nice to show you a glimpse of mine" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "That would be nice Miss Mischa," she beams ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 "Alright then!" She takes Red's hand, "Computer; reload environment only from program Scott-1, grid 10-12" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red grips Mischa's hand tightly, but is not scared by the scene change(edited) ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Their surroundings ripple away once more and are replaced by Mischa's horse riding program. The pair find themselves at Mischa's ending spot atop the hill which looks down over the endless rolling countryside. It is a warm late evening with the sun almost setting in the distance ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Wow Miss Mischa, this place looks really nice," ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa smiles, drawing a deep breath of the simulated country air, "This is my favourite in the whole world, Red. As a girl, I would come up here to look out across the beautiful world. It would remind me both how wonderous life is and also what a small part of it I am" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "It is very nice," she nods. "But would your favourite place in the world be the real place, and not this holographic version?" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She chuckles, "Well yes Red, you got me there. But it is so far away from us here that I rarely get to visit it. That is why I have it recreated here on the holodeck, so I can still experience the joy of being here when I feel the need for the comfort it instills" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Will I ever be able to leave the holodeck and go to visit these places myself?" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa's look saddens as she considers Red a long moment before taking her hand, "Come" she smiles softly leading her to a spot just over the brow of the hill where she sits on the grass ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red sits down next to Mischa ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She leans back, hands outstretched behind her and turns to face Red, "You know I like to believe that we live in a galaxy full of endless possibilities" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red nods at Mischa. "I think so too. Over the last few days, I've experienced so many new things," ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Another sad smile forms across Mischa's face, "And I couldn't be more proud of you proud for what you've achieved. You are truly a testament to the capability of your people to grow beyond their current existence" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Miss Mischa. My previous existence was good. I had a purpose, a job. I was needed," she smiles sweetly ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 "That you did Red, but you have proven that your people have potential for more too. You should be proud for that" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red thinks for a moment and then smiles, tilting her head. "I don't know what I've done but if you're proud, I'm proud!" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa reaches over and brushes Red's hair back, "I couldn't be more proud Red. That is why I wanted to bring you herr; think of it like... a reward for doing so well. I love nothing more than sitting here and watching the sun set and wanted to share that most cherished experience with you" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Is there something special about the sun setting Miss Mischa?" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 "In and of itself Red... maybe not, it is simply the mechanics of the universe. But my people find a certain artistic appreciation everywhere we can..." ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "It is very nice. All the colours merging into one," ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She looks out as the sun begins to dip, "I look out there now Red, and I don't just see a setting sun. I see a beautiful reminder that as night draws on one thing, dawn will soon follow on another. The cycle that is the miracle of life in this universe in it's endless wonder. It is as beautiful as it is scary and humbling" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 "Yes," she beams. "After every day, comes night, and after night comes day!" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa smiles warmly, "Exactly Red. A cycle which echoes through everything that is the miracle of life. Come, let us share this eternal reminder" she extends a hand inviting Red into a hug ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red obliges, curling up in Mischa's arms. "What are we going to do tomorrow Miss Mischa?" ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She looks side on to Red with a tear in her eye, "I think all your hard work has earned you a good rest now, Red. It's time for a well deserved sleep" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red gives a small yawn. "I think so too," she giggles ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa brushes Red's hair back with a fingertip, looking out as the sun dips over the horizon before turning her gaze down to Red, "Just close your eyes and relax. Know that I am here and won't ever let go..." ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Red gives a content sigh and closes her eyes Sam meanwhile enters the holodeck, and stops, hanging back. His hands are in his pockets. He says nothing. ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 Mischa looks down through teary eyes at Red's peaceful form, "Computer... end program and purge files from memory..." The environment fades away, as does Red. Mischa's lip quivers as the hologirl disappears from within her arms, drawing her knees to her chest she buries her face against them and sobs ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Sam walks over, and gives Mischa's shoulder a right squeeze. ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She jumps a little at a rare lapse in her awareness of surroundings, but quickly realises the presence and holds steady ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Sam gives Mischa a firm nod. ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She draws a deep breath to compose herself, looking up at him, "Tell me we did the right thing..." ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Sam crouches and looks at Mischa. "I can't answer that question Mischa. Only she could. And something tells me that she would have said yes," ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 She turns her gaze up to him proper, a still sad smile though a hint of optimism is clear in her face too, "I truly hope so" she extends a hand to grasp his arm and pull back to her feet ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Sam pulls her up and holds her shoulders. "You've made me proud number one. But, I think, more importantly; you made Red proud," ________________ Mischa 02/11/2019 "Anyway. It is done, and I don't know about you but I could use a drink" ________________ Sam 02/11/2019 Sam slings his arm around Mischa's shoulders. "First round is on me," he says, leading her out of the holodeck --END--

A parting gift from Red