Splitting Heirs

Anomaly TrekMUX Episode (#02-003)

Holliday chimes the door to Holosuite One.

From Holosuite One's comm, Poole says "Enter."

Holosuite One - Station 419 - [IC]

A gorgeous tropical white sands beach. It appears as Hawaii must have looked thousands of years ago, with no encroachment by man. Lush foliage borders the land side, the air thick with the scent of exotic flowers, only to be carried away by a gentle breeze. The water is a beautiful blue, and approximately 32 degrees Centigrade. Sets of perfect waves, gorgeous tubes of glass, roll in across the water with regularity. The only things spoiling the untouched picture are a changing tent and several beach chairs.

Poole (In Civilian Dress):

Honey-golden blonde hair is the first thing most people notice about Gwen. It comes down to her shoulder blades, though most days it is usually braided or bound as per Starfleet Dress Code. Her facial features are pretty, some may say they are a bit angular. She has a small nose with a scattering of freckles. Emotions are hard for her to hide, as they are clearly evident on her face and in her eyes.

Speaking of which, her eyes are her next most noticeable feature, a rich, dark-brown color. They are the gates to the tempest that is Gwendolyn Anne Poole.

Gwen is wearing a loose blue tunic that hangs down to her knees. She's also wearing a pair of light trousers on underneath, with open-toed sandals on her feet. The tunic is the darkest blue, the trousers a little lighter, and her sandals are a transparent sapphire blue.

Poole is seated on a beach chair, a few feet in from the surf. Her eyes are on the horizon, and she doesn't much notice the two entrants.

Holliday steps into the holosuite, sand forming under his feet as the program loads. He makes his way across the shore, walking a bit awkwardly- mostly on his heels to avoid flipping sand up with his toes..

Itaani comes up to Poole, walking on the sand with some uncertainty. She mutters something to herself in her native language, and approaches. "Lieutenant..."

Gwen smiles brightly, still looking out over the horizon. "Hello, Chief." Apparently she's heard of the promotion. "Congratulations."

Itaani smiles. "Thank you. Glad to see you're up and about..."

"Up, but not about... I've only been here, the Neutral Zone and my quarters... And the infirmary, of course." Gwen sits up in her chair, swinging her legs over the edge carefully.

Holliday mutters something about chiefs and Indians, nearing now. He crouches, brushing some of the sand off his boots. "Itaani." A nod of greeting. "How are you feeling today, Gwen?" A chuckle, "I was looking for you to discuss some holotherapy, opportunely enough."

"Ironic." Gwen smiles faintly, looking to the Doctor. "What kind of holotherapy do you suggest, Doctor?"

Itaani tilts her head, and kneels to examine the edge of a wave as it rolls up the sand.

Holliday searches inside his jacket for a moment, producing an isolinerar chip. He holds it up. "You'd said something about taking up martial arts. And I was looking thru the medical banks for some physical therapy options and found this. It's Tai Chi in a pool, basically."

"Thank you Doctor." Gwen extends a hand, holding it open to receive the chip. "I've also spoken to T'sal about taking up some of her Vulcan mental relaxation techniques... and some of their fighting techniques, in a few weeks or so, anyways."

Holliday nods. "Sounds good. I'll talk to T'sal about that then, as we may be able to incorporate the two. From my understanding, Tai Chi falls somewhere between a fighting style and a meditation technique. The aquatic environment's good for resistance as well as the buoyancy, which should reduce the chance of re-injury." A pause. "I've also got some 'crutches' for you to use if you're ready to get out of that chair." Another pause. "How are you feeling, anyway?"

"Full of piss and vinegar." Gwen chuckles lightly, then adds soberly, "I'm waiting for the next bad thing to fall onto my head." She pauses, then, "And I think I'm ready for those crutches."

Itaani glances up.

Poole's comm badge chirrups. "Lieutenant Ghorev to Lieutenant Poole," says a voice over it.

Poole taps her comm badge. "Lieutenant Poole here."

Holliday nods. He has more to say, but he nods, "I'll let you get that.."

Over Poole's comm badge, Ghorev says, "Wanted to give you advance notice, Lieutenant, that Subcommander Mekara's warbird is making its approach. I have Lt. Stone laying stalling them a bit with paperwork so we can all put our best faces on before they beam over."

Poole says into her comm badge, "Damn. Does she have an excuse for wanting to board the station? Orders from her government? I don't believe we have to let her dock if she doesn't have authorization."

Over Poole's comm badge, Ghorev says, "Shore leave, under the terms of the current alliance, I do believe."

Itaani mms, "And so soon."

Gwen makes a sour face as she replies to Ghorev, and looks from Holliday to Itaani. Her look says everything... the next big thing to fall on her head came 'real' soon.

Poole says into her comm badge, "You need not delay the paperwork, but you can tell her she's not welcome here... and that her crew is only to be given restricted access to the station. Mall level only... and perhaps the Diplomatic deck. If they so much as 'peep' at any other deck, they are off the station. That includes Mekara, alliance or no."

Itaani says "I think I'd best get up to Ops."

Over Poole's comm badge, Ghorev says, "I'll put as much restrictions on them as I can, under the alliance's terms. I've got to put them onscreen before they get suspicious. Ghorev out."

Poole terminates transmission with a tap on her comm badge.

Poole nods to Itaani, raising a hand in farewell. She whispers, "Good luck."

Itaani nods.

Itaani leaves the holosuite.

Itaani has left.

Holliday chuckles darkly. " Looks like your vacation has been cut short. Are you feeling up to a return to duty?"

"Sure. As long as you'll help me get to my post." Gwen replies, holding out a hand for some help... before she realizes she'll need more than that to get to Ops.

Holliday rises from his crouch, extending a hand, then he too remembers... "No need to get up yet. If you want to come to the IR with me, we'll see about outfitting you with some assistance and reinstating your duty status.."

"Computer, reveal lift chair." Gwen apparently hid the chair from view, as it appears suddenly next to the beach chair. "Let's go to the IR." She uses her arms and little pushes from her feet to slide into the lift chair.

Holliday waits, with no trace of impatience, observing her labors. He's there to help if need be, but seems he'd rather let her do it without assistance. Once she's seated, he nods. "Shall we go then?"

"Please... guide my chair, if you would." Gwen sits back in the chair and clutches her armrests.

Holliday smiles gently. "Sure. Though do you trust me to drive?" He chuckles and steps behind the chair..

Cut to...

Infirmary - Station 419 - [IC]

Throughout this room, the sound of forced air and the electric hiss of Level Three Containment Fields can be heard. The light blue fabric which covers the walls does little to disguise the severe sterility of the place. Eight medi-beds lie side by side down one wall. Above them, the monitors blink softly as they display appropriate medical information. On another wall, the extensive Medical Library computer's display screen shows tests in progress, simulations being run, and station monitoring information. Along the other wall, a series of small examining rooms sit with identical sets of medical testing equipment. Moving through all this is the quiet and efficient staff of the Chief Medical Officer, whose office is opposite of the infirmary's entrance.

Gwen is 'wheeled' in, actually it's a lift-chair, by the Doctor.

Fenlo is sitting on a biobed with a board look on his face he sees the doctor and walks up to him and smiles. " Hello , back from leave and reporting in for..." He pauses as he notices the person being wheeled in. " Umm you need any help sir?"

"That won't be necessary, nurse... I'm in the Doctor's hands for now." Gwen smiles at Fenlo, then looks over her shoulder at the Doctor.

Holliday smiles. "Acknowledged, Cas. ..I think we've got it." A pause. "We're going to need to fit Lt. Poole here for a partial exo-skeleton though."

Soon Poole has been fitted with the partial exoskeleton.. Holliday says, "Well, I'm afraid it's still a bit cumbersome, but you should enjoy greater mobility. We'll get you an integrated system once you get accustomed to this, but I'll need a day or so to tailor it and fine tune the servos."

Holliday says, "Basically, this is for some additional support while your bones and such continue to knit. As you recover, we'll keep turning the amount of mechanical assistance down until you don't need it."

Gwen nods, "Whatever you say Doc." She stands for the first time since the zombie attack, obviously pleased with herself. "Shall we venture out?" She holds a hand out to Holliday.

Holliday offers his arm, ready to support her if need be, but not actually doing so yet. He nods. "All dressed up an no place to go.. Well, except to meet Mekara I guess.."

Gwen accepts the Doctor's arm, then says, "My guess is she's in the Neutral Zone by now, no doubt wondering why she hasn't been met by the acting CO or acting XO yet."

Holliday chuckles. "That, or complaining about the lack of Romulan Ale on tap. The Neutral Zone it is then.."

They step towards the doors..

Mall S1 - Level 7 - Station 419 - [IC](#0RJM)

Mall Level/Sector One is probably one of the busiest intersections on Station 419. The gunmetal-grey corridor of the mall is much more spacious than any of the other station corridors, approximately ten meters across and two decks high. There is no upper level, but the raised ceiling gives one more of an 'open air' impression. Large, elliptical transparent aluminum view ports overhead provide a spectacular view of the stars, contributing to the simulated outdoor impression of a perpetual night sky. The whole impression of the mall is one of passing through a garden. Planters throughout the corridor, blooming with all sorts of strange and exotic flora, give a gradual 'winding path' effect which tends to break up the monotony of the circular corridors. The fresh oxygen that the plants provide carries with it the smell of food and drink, coming from the direction of The Neutral Zone, one of the station's busiest establishments. All manner of sentient beings can be seen moving through the Mall, heading into a shop, loitering at one of the smaller kiosks, or dropping in for a drink at the Zone. In the center of this section is a large three-sided black pillar, topped with display units - the station directory.

Outside a viewport the blue-white flash of the anomaly can be seen.

Itaani says "Secure that talk, Nevaren. Lady of Mercy, we don't need more tension."

Itaani heads into the Neutral Zone, the doors sliding open at her approach.

Nevaren shakes his head, grumbling. He stops at an access panel, kneeling down and dropping his kit. He pulls off the panel, placing it beside his kit, opens his tools, and pulls out a phase modulator. he starts running the modulator over the ODN conduits, recalibrating their throughput ratios.

Ghorev heads into the Neutral Zone, the doors sliding open at his approach.

Holliday comes along the pathway around the mall section, accompanying Poole. Seeing Itaani step into the 'Zone, he comments, "Looks like you were right, Gwen." A pause. "Well, I guess shore leave is nearly universal.."

"Do I win a prize for being right" Gwen walks along at an easy pace, trying -not- to hurry to what she's expecting to happen. "I guess we should get it over with."

Holliday shrugs. "Sure. I'll buy you a drink for it." A pause. Hmm. "You may notice the effects of alcohol more strongly for a while.. Your replacement organs, being cloned, are identical to the originals, of course.. but they're just that- new."

"Mmm... Like a new ship. I have to go through my shakedown cruise." Gwen smiles, then nods towards the NZ. "Let's go meet our destiny then."

Nevaren finishes his recalibration, putting his tools away and closing up the panel. He stands, shaking the dust off is knees. He picks up his kit and stats walking down promenade.

Holliday continues towards the NZ with Poole. He spots Nevaren now and waves. "It seems we're going for a drink.. Care to join us.. if you have time to spare?" He says rather lightly.

Gwen smiles encouragingly to Nev, "Come along, Nev... We can use all the reinforcements we can get." She thinks for a moment, then taps her combadge.

Nevaren stops and frowns. "In There?

Ghorev's comm badge chirrups. "Lieutenant Poole to Lieutenant Ghorev."

Nevaren says "I just Saw Mekara. Itaani's a bit mad with me because I was terse with The *good* Subcommander"

A voice over Poole's comm badge says, "Lieutenant Ghorev here."

Poole says into her comm badge, "How are things, Lieutenant?"

Holliday shrugs. "We're all friends now, supposedly. We share a common enemy anyway." He says this lightly enough as well, though his expression doesn't match it.

Nevaren sighs. I guess I can go have a drink. But please, don't expect me to be nice to her.

Over Poole's comm badge, Ghorev says, "Oh, just fine, Lieutenant. The Subcommander is asking for a brief tutorial as to the Guarantees of Federation Law. And we are discussing potential and actualization. Oh, and I believe she is attracted to my antennae, but she's hiding it well."

Nevaren quickly stops at an engineering utility closet, thumbs the thumb lock open, and stores his kit. He closes and relocks the locker. "There. Ready, I think. Think I'll need a phaser cannon?

Gwen looks to Holliday, smirking slightly. Whatever physical problems she has now, she's still got the same attitude.

Poole says into her comm badge, "Excellent. I shall be there shortly."

Poole terminates the comm by tapping her comm badge.

Holliday says "Need? I hope not. Want? Possibly."

...

The Neutral Zone - Station 419 - [IC]

Walking into the bar brings with it the usual experience of walking on bare deck plates. Each step is marked by a small clink as boot strikes against metal. The walls of the bar, in the tradition of such places from earliest Terran history, are lined with various objects of interest contributed by the crew and visitors. Here is a Cardassian Gul's rank-pin. Over there is the bridge alert indicator from a Jem'hadar battle cruiser. And in the center of the room, clearly in pride of place, is the actual bar itself. Made of gleaming metal, it takes a moment before it is recognizable as a piece of the hull of a Galaxy Class starship. Careful examination would be required to determine its origin, although the bar's frequent patrons might be pleased to share a wild story or two about it. A series of trapezoidal viewports offers a view of surrounding space. Suspended in the black void is something far more enigmatic than all of the odd artifacts in this bar. Looking almost like a miniature star, the anomaly quietly flashes alternately blue and white.

Also here is an old fashioned jukebox.

Mekara:

Her short-cropped black hair frames extremely angular features. Her nose is long and sharp but not unattractive, set below two piercing green eyes that flit about the room with cold intelligence. Her arrogance is evident in the smirk which she generally carries with her, typical of the smug superiority of a Romulan. Two pointed ears poke out from her hair. Her brow is ridged subtly just above the eyebrows, which slope down toward the apex of her nose. She appears to be approximately 50-60 years old by Romulan standards. She stands approximately 5'11, and carries herself with a swagger.

She is currently wearing a thatched grey Romulan Star Navy Uniform of a heavy material, with a high collar. The shoulders taper to a point and are wide. Coming across both shoulders, meeting at the breast and running down to a belt of the same material, is metal sash woven with a gold fabric. The uniform indicates that she is a Centurion in the Command Fleet, in the Command branch. Hanging from the belt is a sheath for a small knife opposite of a disruptor holster. The shirt hangs at the waist, over a pair of black pants. These terminate into a pair of calf-high, shiny black boots.

A young ensign carefully sidesteps one of the bar's more drunken patrons.

Mekara looks toward Ghorev. She shakes her head. "No, that's the first intelligent thing you've said all night, I believe." She grins to him. "But perhaps the stakes should be higher. Your Aegis against my D'Kamma." She suddenly mocks disappointment, snapping her fingers. "But oh, that wouldn't be fair, would it? A time ship versus a Romulan D'deridex class warbird.. I'd put my money on the time ship." She grins and looks toward Poole. "Gwen. So nice to see you."

Gwen strolls in on the arm of Doctor Holliday, Nev walking in with them. She is still dressed in her civilian clothing... though her commpin is back where it is supposed to be. She also seems to be wearing an exoskeleton of some type. Her gaze moves, with almost heat-seeking accuracy, to Mekara. The reply to Mekara is short, "Mekara. Pleased to have you."

Ghorev says "It's not the fairness that concerns me, Subcommander, but the lack of a built-up trust. Wargames would be safer for the tempers on all sides, and, besides, don't you feel that it makes one soft to rely on a ship's weapons? I should think you'd want to prove how a warrior lives."

Nevaren arrives from the mall, the entrance's double doors sliding silently closed behind him.

Nevaren limps into the 'Zone, carefully dodging other customers as he makes his way to the bar to place his order

Nevaren orders Kalva from Sileel.

After a few minutes, Sileel brings Nevaren his order.

Mekara grins toward Poole, her green eyes sparkling with mischief. "Feeling better?" she asks with a smirk. She turns toward Ghorev. "My troops will meet yours any time you wish it. And we will see who's training is superior."

Itaani says, "I think new training is in order. Joint exercises, so that no one forgets their duty and the objectives our commanders have set for us. As in, who is on whose side.

Nevaren thanks Sileel. smiling slightly, and turns to watch his friends. He takes a deep breath, steeling himself, and makes his way over to them and, unfortunately, Mekara as well.

Two Romulan centurions stand off to one side of Mekara, watching the conversation but not speaking.

Ghorev says "I quite agree," making a 'what she said' motion towards Itaani. "Subcommander, once your men have had leave, with Command Staff's permission, I'll arrange the wargames detail myself. If you've time to discuss the terms of the games later over a drink, I am not hard to find."

Holliday doesn't say anything at first, just standing there arm in arm with Poole, observing. Then he offers, "Pierce Holliday, CMO." A pause. "I guess with this alliance, I should brush up on Romulan physiology- what there is of it on record."

"Well enough to meet my favorite Romulan... Oh, where is Captain Seneka?" Gwen glances around mockingly, then regards Mekara again with a falsely warm smile. "I guess I'll just have to settle for you."

Blutox looks on the assembled crowd with a stoic expression.

Steran arrives from the mall, the entrance's double doors sliding silently closed behind him.

Mekara looks toward Poole. "Indeed." Glancing to the doctor, then, she nods to him. "I know who you are, 'Doc'. Your choice in escorts has much to be desired. But I suppose she still needs help in walking."

Nevaren frowns as he stops just behind the Doc and Mekara. Hearing her words, he suppresses a growl, instead taking a sip of his Bajoran liquor

Itaani nods. "At least, Subcommander, might we offer you something of less decadent sustenance? I was about to order a rekaak, myself..

Steran steps into the bar, his gaze sweeping the room. It falls upon the Subcommander, and he nods very slightly. The ambassador heads in toward her.

Holliday smiles. "My reputation proceeds me?" He chuckles, tips his head to indicate Poole. "Just figured someone should keep an eye on her." Another chuckle. "You think I'm holding her arm just to be friendly?"

Gwen doesn't seem to acknowledge the comment at her expense, instead she lets go of Holliday's arm and takes a seat next to Mekara. A quick glance behind her to Holliday, beckoning him to take a seat nearby... Then she looks to the bartender, "I'll have a pina colada..."

Mekara looks toward Itaani. "When I'm thirsty, I'll get it myself. Stop sniveling." She rolls her eyes and looks toward the door. She smirks again. "Ambassador Steran," she says.

Ghorev says, more than a little sharply, "Subcommander."

Steran nods to Mekara, smiling. "Subcommander... I am glad to see that they have already dispatched personnel from the Empire."

"No need to be impolite, Miss Subcommander." Gwen adds to what Ghorev said, as her drink arrives... with a little parasol as well.

A tellarite makes his way past. The exit parts for him and he disappears into the mall.

Itaani walks up to the Romulan, and looks her deep in the eyes, "When I'm sniveling, Subcommander, you'll know it by the suns shining dark, the snow falling up, and your disposition fashionable.

Nevaren 's eyes narrow. He is less than impressed by this egotistical commander wannabe. "Yes, Ambassador. TO bad it seems they are scraping the bottom of the barrel, so to speak. You would think they would send someone with at least a few victories under her belt."

Itaani says "It's called *hospitality."

Holliday takes a seat, if possible, between Mekara and Poole. He gestures to Blutox, "I'm buying for the ladies." Indicating Poole and Mekara.

Steran looks to Nevaren and makes tsk-tsk sounds. "Now, now... don't be rude. You do not want to ruin the extended working relationship so early in the alliance, do you?"

Itaani says "Something done and recognized by honorable people throughout most of the civilized galaxy. The Klingons understand it well. I pity that you yourself do not.""

Mekara's gaze levels on Itaani. "If either of you Blue People speak to me again in such a fashion, I will personally stuff those two antennae up your noses."

Nevaren looks at Steran coldly. "I will be *polite* when the good Subcommander here shuts her mouth, or at least gives us some respect. The only way I give respect is if it is shown.. and deserved."

Itaani looks up at her. "If you weren't hiding behind those foreign relations of yours, I would gladly give you the opportunity. You need to be taught manners.

Mekara laughs once, hard. "You don't deserve my respect. Posing as a Vulcan. You belong with your people, Nevaren."

Steran sighs. "We cannot all be diplomats, I see." He mutters to himself as he orders a wine from the bar.

Itaani looks behind her. "Be quiet, all of you. Please."

Steran orders Vulcan Wine.

Sileel responds, "We don't have that."

Steran orders Vulcan Port from Sileel.

After a few minutes, Sileel brings Steran his order.

Holliday sighs. "Come on. I think we can all acknowledge respect for a good challenge. Whether that challenge is in the form of a worthy opponent, or of exercising tact." A pause, a brief smile. "Which I believe is loosely defined as 'keeping quiet when you'd rather not'."

Nevaren frowns slightly. "What did you say?" He whispers.

Itaani looks to Mekara. "It is also transparent that you do not favor this alliance, and seek to undermine it in any way you can.

Mekara looks toward Nevaren. "Giving you a chance to come home, Lt. To Romulus." She smiles to him sweetly.

Gwen seemed about to speak, then shuts her mouth as Mekara speaks to Nev. She looks to Nevaren, then glances around at the rest of those gathered. "Subcommander. You'd better stow that attitude, and keep those comments to yourself."

Steran looks to Nevaren, then to Mekara. He cocks his head slightly.

Mekara growls, "Silence! I am speaking to Nevaren."

Ghorev says "No. You are not."

Ghorev says "Mr. Nevaren, return to your post."

Nevaren steps back, horrified. "You would insult me so? Just because I don't hide my emotions like the other Vulcans on board doesn't make me one of you."

Nevaren looks at Ghorev "But Chief.."

Mekara looks to Ghorev, then Nevaren. "Do not dismiss him, Ghorev. He will never have a chance to know his sister."

Steran makes a sort of hmph sound at Nevaren's response and sips his wine.

Ghorev says "Mr. Nevaren, the Subcommander wants toys to play with. I am denying her her toys. Go."

Itaani sighs, and turns her back on Mekara.

Steran takes a drink of his Vulcan Port.

Nevaren's eyes plaintively search his friends faces. "She doesn't know what she's talking about.." is all he says. He downs his Kalva, turns on his heel, and limps away muttering. "Lying whore..."

Gwen blinks once, then flushes. She seems about to speak again, then looks to Nev. "Lieutenant. You need not go, would you care to sit with me by that viewport?" It's more of a statement than a question.

Nevaren nods as he walks away, going to the viewport

A young ensign carefully sidesteps one of the bar's more drunken patrons.

Poole gets up, without help for those noting such things, and walks slowly over to where Nev sits. She sends a glance back at the rest of the Starfleet officer, it's meaning clear. 'Behave yourselves.'

Itaani glances across the room to Steran.

Ghorev turns back to Mekara.

Nevaren carefully sits at the table across from Poole, favoring his leg. He grabs another Kalva from Sileel as she passes and just looks out the viewport, his face stone cold.

Mekara pushes from the bar and follows Nevaren. "My mother's name was Nava, Nevaren. She was imprisoned on Cloour, a prison moon for the Cardassians."

Gwen turns slowly, placing herself between Nevaren and Mekara. "Subcommander, leave this man alone, or I'll order you back to your ship for harassing one of my officers."

Steran's eyes follow Mekara, and he takes a few steps toward Nevaren as well, although stays well to the periphery of the conversation.

Itaani says in Andorian, "Mother of change, she's either a liar or she insults her own kin, what barbarians."

Mekara watches Nevaren, ignoring the others.

Holliday remains sitting at the bar by Mekara, turning slightly to observe Poole and Nevaren. He shakes his head slightly at all of this, lifting one elbow to the bar and leaning his temple against his knuckles.

Nevaren is suddenly standing, his limp all but gone and pure murderous rage on his face. He stops, his face only inches from hers. "You lying Romulan (bajoran word for a motherless quadrupedal bovine.). I am NOT a Romulan. You hear me? I am not one of you. If you continue insinuating such I will break your neck."

Itaani shakes her head disdainfully, looking to Ghorev, then walks over to where Steran begins.

sits not begins.

Holliday says "So, Miss Mekara.. Subcommander. What are you drinking?"

Itaani mutters, as she passes, "I believe the word for the beverage is, 'bile,' Doctor.

Ghorev says "Mr. Nevaren." Again harshly. "Stand *down*."

"Lieutenant Nevaren. Please control yourself." Gwen winces as she turns from Mekara, then says, "Could you assist me to a seat at that table?"

Mekara smirks, glancing back toward Holliday, then looks back toward Nevaren. "There is no use denying who you are, Nevaren. Everyone can tell you're not a Vulcan. It's painfully obvious. However, I will make all the data available to you and you can see for yourself. You are my half-brother." She turns now and strides toward Steran. "Ambassador," she says with a smirk. "To the Federation. It might as well be exile."

Ghorev places himself between Nevaren and Mekara, just a few feet from the latter. "Subcommander, I am formally warning you under terms of our alliance that your attempts at psychological warfare will not be tolerated. One more word out of you on this course of action, and I will throw you in the brig myself, accordingly. I assure you, Subcommander, that I am eloquent enough to explain myself to Starfleet Command accordingly." He bares his teeth. "Are we clear?"

Nevaren is shaking but obeys, reluctantly. He shoots Mekara a "we will have words later" look and turns to help Poole. His face is so red and it's not rage but painful embarrassment and self loathing.

Steran stands up and deliberately stands next to Mekara. "Pardon me... but is it totally beyond the realm of possibility that the good Subcommander might be telling the truth? At least, as she knows it?"

Sileel darts among the dirty tables, cleaning them up.

"Thank you, Nev." Gwen says as she's led to the table, she pats him on the hand, then takes a seat. "I'm sorry that happened... I should have had you avoid her, she's always looking to cause trouble."

Poole sits down at square table.

Ghorev says "Ambassador, as you must well know, truth or falsehood is not a defense against such a charge. If the Subcommander continues on her course of action, it will be as I have stated."

Ghorev continues, in fact:

Nevaren shakes his head, unable to speak. He just helps her sit down at the table on the side of the bar far away from the Romulan.

Nevaren sits down at square table.

Ghorev says "Since first making contact with this station, the Subcommander has decided on this course of action. When we are kind, she mocks our attempts at kindness. When we say anything *else*, she threatens us with the alliance. But that threat works both ways. In short, Ambassador, kennel your cur or this 'Blue Person' shall."

Holliday shakes his head, addressing Itaani. "No, that's produced internally for the purpose of absorbing lipids." He says this with a completely straight face, then adds, "Sour grapes maybe. I'm guessing it's not the wine of victory anyway.."

Itaani leans on Steran's table. "Ambassador. In order to save your government some embarrassment, I will tell you before I take this through channels. This Subcommander of yours is obviously, manifestly, and aggressively at issue with the stated goals of your empire in pursuing an alliance with the Federation against the Dominion. Sooner or later, it will be asked that she be removed from this sector. It may as well be the sooner."

Holliday orders Scotch from Sileel.

After a few minutes, Sileel brings Holliday his order.

Nevaren takes a drink of his Kalva.

Mekara smirks, looking toward Itaani, then Ghorev. She smiles at them both.

Steran nods. "I cannot guarantee that such a request would be honored," he says to Itaani. "As I understand it, she is very familiar with this sector. It is solely the discretion of Romulan Command that she was assigned... and the Federation did agree to allow us to send personnel to study the anomaly and aid the alliance."

Holliday takes a slug of his drink- scotch on the rocks. "With friends like these, who needs enemies."

Ghorev looks to Mekara. "Do not think to press me on this, Subcommander. I advised you over hailing frequencies that I had high hopes for making your acquaintance, but you chose to scrawl on this blank slate with graffiti. That's fine, but it is your own choice."

Itaani looks over to Mekara, "If she is a relation of a crewmate of mine, I would see that her family be spared the shame of her in-decorous behavior before it becomes better-known.

Steran waves his hand. "If you are concerned with the Subcommander's honor, you should take it up with her."

Holliday gets up from his barstool, stepping towards the square table. He pauses midway there though, fairly central to the room, and raises his glass. "A toast. To the Dominion!"

Itaani says "She is an outworlder, she cannot be expected to stand to honor as we do."

Nevaren just shakes his head, completely lost in some... someplace or sometime. he puts down his drink and rests his head in his hands

Mekara looks toward her two men, then back to Ghorev. "Your bluster is wasted on me, Akeen Ghorev. Go scare some Bolians." She gestures around the Zone.

Poole looks up from her table at Holliday, an amused grin on her lips, then she goes serious again as she regards Nevaren.

Ghorev says "Subcommander, if you think it is bluster, try me."

Steran scowls. "Believe it or not, honor is just as important to Romulans as it is to Klingons and Andorians. It simply takes a higher form of duty that is not apparent to 'outworlders,'" He says, stressing that last word.

Mekara levels her gaze on Ghorev. "No. Try /me/."

There is a gale of hearty laughter from some of the traders near the bar.

Ghorev says "Ah, but Subcommander, from talk, half the Empire has been *there*."

Itaani indicates Mekara, "And her carryings-on are the expression of that duty, Ambassador? Are they or are they not?

Mekara's eyes burn on Ghorev. "Care to take off that uniform? I would enjoy killing you, Blue."

Steran shakes his head. "That is not for me to decide." Glances over. "I do believe your kinsmen and mine are about add a complication to this newborn alliance."

Holliday frowns. "Chiefs, if she's that bad, it doesn't reflect so well on you to play on her pitch now does it?" He gestures, "Now, lets just go on and get past this." He gestures to the watching patrons of the bar, particularly the laughing traders, "Unless you'd like to continue providing this evenings comedic entertainment."

Itaani glances over. "Indeed. Shall we send the records of this incident to both our governments now, or after it is concluded?

Ghorev says "Ah-ha, so you admit that the secret to your rise to success to kill men while they're undressing?" He narrows his own gaze. "I *warned* you, you know. And I meant it, and you chose to trample on that. *Again*, that's fine, but it's your own choice."

Mekara's eyes still burn on him. She doesn't say more. Just.. Marks him. She looks toward Nevaren again.

Ghorev follows her gaze. "If you open your mouth to him, what I have warned about an arrest will come to pass. Don't."

Gwen catches Mekara's shift to Nevaren, looking at her with a warning in her eyes. It's unspoken, but basically, 'Don't even think about it.'

Steran chuckles to Itaani. "We could make a small wager...? But seriously, perhaps we should stifle it. It would save us both the paperwork." He gets up and starts to head over.

Nevaren knows Mekara is coming towards him. Oh yes, he knows. He just sits there quietly, waiting and sipping his drink.

Itaani speaks up. "Akeen Ghorev, if she wishes Nevaren to be in her family so badly, let her speak. If she seeks to deride him thereafter, she only derides herself and her name. Let her."

Ghorev says simply, "Not my men. Not on my watch."

Steran tries to head Mekara off. "Pardon me, Subcommander, but with your arrival there are some matters that we should... corroborate on."

Holliday extends an arm in a comradely gesture to Ghorev. If the Andorian will allow it, he's put it around his shoulders in an attempt to lead him a pace or two away from Mekara. He says something quietly to him...

You mutter to Ghorev, "What exactly were you planning on arresting her for, Chief?"

Ghorev allows the closeness, and the talk, but not the arm. He watches Mekara, waiting for her to make the next move.

Itaani shakes her head. "Her words have no fire, Akeen Ghorev, only fear. Let her strut and spout her venom, war will teach her either true pride or death.

Mekara glares at Ghorev. "Ghorev, you are really starting to get on my nerves. If /you/ do not stop harassing me, I will make sure you pay for your insolence."

A young ensign carefully sidesteps one of the bar's more drunken patrons.

Nevaren takes a drink of his Kalva.

Itaani looks to Mekara again, following, "Oh, do shut up, Subcommander, we have your measure, now. Have a drink, or do not have a drink, and seem a fool. Make your case to the one you would call brother.

Ghorev makes a 'one moment' gesture in Holliday's direction while he watches. "Subcommander, as I said, you have but to try me. I offered you the chance to have a single personal ally on this station, at no greater cost than pleasantness, but you have chosen instead to take offense at every pleasantry uttered, while spewing bile. I will surrender to your people the communications logs of our earlier conversation to prove this, as well. But if you continue to try me in this, you will find out just how far over the line I can be pushed."

Mekara smirks at Ghorev. "I've asked you to take off the uniform. I will kill you where you stand so long as it does not affect this treaty. Let's take it off the record, shall we?"

Steran clears his throat. "Pardon me, Subcommander, I believe we have some very important business to discuss. In private." His tone is not commanding, but it is stern and urgent.

Mekara looks to Steran. "Shut up," she quips with annoyance. "I'm going to kill this blue person."

Ghorev says "Mekara ... " He smiles like the Earth proverb about cats and canaries. "The 'on the record' part is the part you *really* want to keep. It's the only reason you are here at all. If this goes 'off the record' as you say, I win, whether you kill me or no."

Mekara nods. "Good. Then shall we convene to a more suitable venue?"

Steran takes a step back, and simply shakes his head. He says nothing more.

A tellarite makes his way past. The exit parts for him and he disappears into the mall.

Ghorev says "If that is *truly* what you wish, I would dream of showing anything less than hospitality to an honored guest. However, the simpler way is to heed my warning about Lieutenant Nevaren. That is the *only* thing beyond the letter of the law of the Federation-Romulan alliance that I require of you. When you interfere with my subordinates, Subcommander, it becomes my business."

Itaani says "Then we'll need the senior officers present to witness. None are available to record, I'm afraid."

Holliday frowns and steps between the antagonists. He raises his hands. "Hold it. I really don't want my evening inconvenienced by having to treat either of you."

Gwen looks to Nev and comments, in her best 'southern belle' accent, "Your knight in shinin' armor has arrived.." She gestures to Ghorev, pleased to see Mekara so riled up.

Mekara looks to Holliday. "I think you're all afraid of the truth, just like Nevaren is. That I am his sister. And you're the man to prove it, 'Doc'."

Nevaren 's voice trails quietly from his table. It is slow and worded carefully and precisely. "Chief... Please.. stand Down. This is MY humor at stake, not yours. If Mekara wishes to say something to me, she may. No more of this fighting. This is now between me and her."

Steran tilts his head. "Yes... would that not settle this matter expediently, to see if their DNA does match?"

Ghorev does not turn away. "No, Mr. Nevaren. Return to Engineering, *now*."

Nevaren shakes his head. "I am off duty, sir, so I must regretfully decline your request. Let her be."

Mekara looks to Ghorev, then to Nevaren. She smiles to him.

Gwen stands from her seat, and looks to Nevaren. "Lt. That was a request from a superior officer. You'd better get to engineering." Her tone is gentle, but it is an order.

Holliday regards Mekara quite evenly. "I'd hope not." He smiles. "Yes, the test is a simple one. However, Nevaren may not want to submit to it. There's an old saying about 'You can pick your friends and enemies, but family you're born with.' He may not want to risk having to claim you."

Mekara looks toward Nevaren. "It would prove to you that I speak the truth, Nevaren."

Steran raises his eyebrows. "So you do think it might be true, Doctor?"

Ghorev looks back to Mekara. "Don't even look at him. I am denying you your toy. I am denying you your games. If you wish to play on *our* kochek field, you play by our rules. Which I have already aptly demonstrated by playing your temper like a fiddle the same way you have played others on this station. Because you have no hooks into me, Subcommander, but you've already shown me your throat."

Holliday raises a brow archly. "Or be something of an embarrassment if you're wrong, I think." He smiles, almost sinisterly. His words may answer Steran's question as well.

Mekara flatly ignores Ghorev and looks to Nevaren.

Nevaren stands up slowly, bringing himself up from his seat in an almost feline like manner. "The truth? You want the truth Mekara.. I'll make it simple. Whether I am what you think I am is of no concern to me. Why should it? If family is so important, and if I am a Romulan, then why didn't anyone come for my mother, or for me? Apparently, If I am Romulan, and if my mother was too, then we weren't important enough for your precious star empire to rescue and bring home. So then, Subcommander, what is the truth now? IF she was your mother why didn't you or your great government come for her?"

Nevaren looks Mekara straight in the eye, his own emerald gaze very cold and piercing.

Ghorev says "Mr. Nevaren, I do not expect to repeat my orders to you."

Holliday rolls his eyes heavenward- just a little, in an expression of 'here it comes'..

A drunken Ferengi toward the back of the Zone shouts for more tube grubs.

Nevaren holds his hand up gently, stopping Ghorev. "It is okay chief. I won't let her play with me anymore. If it were YOUR family's honor at stake I wouldn't stop you, would I?"

Mekara doesn't move toward him, but states, "She was an agent of the Tal'Shiar. Romulus had to have plausible deniability. And until this wall fell, I didn't know what had happened to her. And I didn't know about you."

Gwen backs away from the table slightly, then shakes her head. This battle is Nevaren's and Mekara's, not hers... She moves from her table, passing by Ghorev for half a moment (and whispering something to him) before heading for the door. Though unassisted, she has to hide a grimace as she walks.

Poole stands and leaves square table.

Steran's eyes dart over to Mekara, narrowing slightly. He remains silent.

Holliday says "Maybe you should count yourself lucky Nev. Balin coulda been your brother-in-law as well as your CO."

Poole mutters to Ghorev, "... is in your hands,... of... My... bothering... some...".

Mekara smiles as she watches Poole walk off. "We'll talk later, Gwen," she says.

"I'll be counting the seconds until our next meeting, Mekara. Good evening to you..." Gwen turns her head briefly to look back at the Romulan woman, glances to the Starfleet officers not speaking but her look says everything, 'Behave... and please, please, try not to kill her.'

Ghorev says, firmly, "Mr. Nevaren." He does not add anything further to that, but his tone is clear.

Nevaren shrugs. "Really, Mekara?.. well that's your story and I'll let you stick to it. But there's a few facts to consider here. Look at my record, my DNA profile.. it's available on the medical database. I am a HALF-Vulcan. SO, even if I were a Romulan, why would my record say otherwise? If it were hidden, then that would mean that there is a security rating on it. And if it has a security rating, how did you get around that? That would imply that you are a spy and that you are not even denying that you are one. This is a Starfleet station, Mekara, no matter the alliance. And if you ARE a spy who has stolen Starfleet information then you are able to be arrested and tried as such. SO which is it? Is this mind game over and do you concede, or are you willing to accept being arrested?"

Holliday says "Night, Gwen. We'll try not to break anything."

Nevaren finishes his Kalva.

Steran steps forward. "No one is getting arrested," he says, sternly. "Not without hard evidence. Now I suggest all of you start acting like officers of your respective navies. Now." His tone has lost its usual diplomatic restraint.

Mekara looks to Nevaren, shaking her head. "A DNA test will prove it, Nevaren. I did not 'steal' Federation intelligence. I obtained it through the opening of relations between the Tal'Shiar and Starfleet Intelligence. I requested, and received, all pertinent information concerning my mother. Imagine my surprise when your name popped up as well. I obtained the information legally. And your records are false. Starfleet Intelligence has been covering for you for years, it seems. Must be good to have half-brothers in high locations."

Itaani says "A fine idea, Ambassador. If the Subcommander wishes her DNA tested, she need only ask the Doctor. If Mr. Nevaren wishes his compared with hers, then that is his right. In the meantime, he has his orders."

Blutox looks on the assembled crowd with a stoic expression.

Nevaren looks at Steran, smiling slightly. "I'll tell you the truth, Ambassador. I actually respect you, despite your affiliations. You are trying to do your job to the best of your ability. I will rescind my accusations." He looks back at Mekara then at his friends, searching their faces. He just shakes his head. "A can of worms has been opened here, so to speak and it cannot be closed. This will always be in your minds, somewhere, unless it is resolved. I will allow the test. This woman is NOT my sister, and I will prove it here and now."

Mekara looks toward Holliday. "I will submit to the test. But I insist my doctors will supervise the administration of these tests so as to confirm untainted results." she states.

Steran nods. "I am gratified... I think." He mutters.

Itaani looks sympathetically to Steran.

Ghorev says "Are you willing to provide the credentials for these doctors so that we may confirm likewise?"

Mekara rolls her eyes. "Just like an Andorian, trying to turn an intimate moment into an orgy. Do me a favor and stand over there near the Tellarites."

Itaani says, lowly, "Much work to be done."

Steran glances away, sighing again.

Holliday smiles without humor. "I'll tell you what. I'll even let your doctors do an independent test, if Nevaren wants to supply a sample. But I don't see any reason to delay on my end." He chuckles, shakes his head. "Now, to split hairs.. Or heirs."

Ghorev says "Subcommander, you seem to think that was something other than a condition. I *can* keep Mr. Nevaren so busy he does not have time for any elective medical visits, and I *can* bar anyone I feel like who doesn't outrank me from Engineering. I repeat: On our field, you play by our rules."

Itaani observes, "Tellarites are wonderful company, as it happens."

A young ensign carefully sidesteps one of the bar's more drunken patrons.

Mekara steps away from the bar, now, toward Nevaren. "I will be in my assigned quarters," she says to Nevaren. "If and when you wish to speak to me, without these varool, then call on me." She looks back towards Steran. "I believe you said we had things to discuss."

Nevaren turns to Ghorev, his face full of anger. "CHIEF.. PLEASE. This is MY honor here at stake. I've seen how much family and clan means to Andorians, and how important the honor they share is. Why do you deny me the right to clear my own honor? I don't care about the conditions. DO TWO tests, one by each group, and if they are the same we have our answer.

Steran nods. "Yes, if you think these tests are to be delayed for the moment." He says to Mekara.

Holliday says, "Don't be so quick to step on her toes that you step on mine, Chief. Nevaren doesn't need to come in for any elective visits. Even if I didn't already have the information I need on file, he's still under treatment for his leg, which, you may have noticed, he is still favoring a little?" He smiles to Ghorev, then Mekara. "Though I'm afraid that wouldn't help if you want to validate any results I might get.""

Ghorev looks at Holliday. "Very well. If that is the way we *all* wish to play on this battlefield." He straightens.

Holliday says one word. "Stalling?"

Ghorev says "Mr. Nevaren, you are to report immediately to USS Aegis to take over the continued repairs there. Pack a case of belongings because you are not to set foot on this station unless expressly summoned by myself, or Command Staff. If Doctor Holliday wishes to declare you unfit for duty and confine you to quarters accordingly, then he can go ahead and do that."

Itaani says "Ghorev, the truth is the truth. The fact that someone who was behaving in an uncivilized manner also wants it known does not change the fact.."

Ghorev says "No, frankly, it doesn't. I agree. That doesn't change my orders."

Mekara looks toward Holliday. "Unless you get my doctors down here to /supervise/ testing, there will be no test." She turns and walks toward where Nevaren was sitting. Using a napkin, she picks up the glass he left behind. "We will use this to test for DNA residue."

Nevaren looks at Ghorev, his face pleading.. but it slowly fades "Yes 'sir'" Is all he says. He turns and limps back to his table, grabbing his satchel.

Itaani looks to Mekara. "You will *ask* if you may use that to test for DNA residues, Subcommander. We do have genetic rights in this Federation.

Holliday sighs exasperatedly. "Ok, fine." He smiles. "Take all the time you need. Or call your doctors. But I don't think you know whether you have anything to prove yet. Is that why you're not willing to submit to examination -now-?"

Steran steps promptly behind Mekara as she leaves, hoping to preempt any attempts to stop her. "Perhaps we should let the issue lie right here. For the moment."

A drunken Ferengi toward the back of the Zone shouts for more tube grubs.

Nevaren slings the satchel over his shoulder, turns, and nods once to his crewmates. He then starts limping through the bar towards the doors.

Mekara shakes her head, setting the glass down. "You Starfleet types. Afraid of the truth. I'll succumb to your goading Doctor, however, your results I fear will be tainted." She looks to her Centurion. "Summon the doctors down from the D'Kamma. We will begin as soon as they arrive." He nods to her, and steps toward the corner where he starts to hail the ship.

Steran clears his throat, looking pointedly at Ghorev. "I can see that certain officers on this station will present an obstacle to the integrity of this alliance," he says pointedly.

Holliday says "More or less tainted if I give you a chance to take sample back with you and prepare for the exam? Only thing I'm afraid of is someone making a crib sheet for that." He nods to Steran, "I'd agree. But don't worry, she'll be leaving once we finish the test, I think."

Ghorev looks back to Steran. "As I said earlier, Ambassador, I am more than willing to provide the logs of my earlier conversation with the Subcommander. If you wish to find truth, you can start looking there."

The Centurion steps forward again. "Subcommander, Doctor Kevoor is standing by at the Infirmary." Mekara smiles to Holliday. "See? Didn't take long at all."

Itaani sighs, and walks over to Ghorev, "Why we should now protect these people, I have no idea. But we must. Let them think what they will, they will learn. If we have to duel every one among them, they will learn, one day. This is only a beginning.

Nevaren stops at the door, talking quietly to Blutox.

Itaani adds, a bit more audibly, "They have much to prove to us, we should show forbearance.

Steran shrugs. "There is no need. I am sure the Subcommander's vessel has duly recorded the logs as well. If I were interested in them at all, anyway."

Ghorev says "*If* you were, yes. If you were not, you might simply stare at me pointedly and make a casual comment which isn't. Not that you would do either."

Steran smiles insincerely. "Of course. Shall we get on with this test?"

Blutox looks on the assembled crowd with a stoic expression.

Holliday raises a brow. "-My- infirmary? Well, tell him to get comfortable.. But not too comfortable. We'll be there in a minute. Shall we go there then?" He offers his arm to Mekara, though he's not all that close- at least more than arms length from her centurions.

Mekara smirks and looks to Holliday. "I believe I know my way there. You are all welcome to come, of course," she says. "After all, I think you should all be there when I'm declared a liar, shouldn't you?"

Ghorev smiles back, and his own smile is actually rather genuine. "You will do as you will do, Ambassador. I, myself, will be returning to duty. I interrupted it to offer the Subcommander a drink and the camaraderie of newfound allies, and we can see how that turned out."

Itaani says "Yes, Subcommander, the way to Sickbay is of course, clearly marked. Good evening to you.""

Holliday smiles. "You're welcome to come, of course. As far as the results of the test, that falls under doctor-patient privilege, here. That would be myself and Nevaren. And you and.. Dr. Kevoor, was it?"

Mekara shrugs mildly. "Very well. My Centurions will escort me." She gestures toward them, and the fall in step behind her.

Mekara heads out and into the Mall.

Mekara has left.

Steran turns toward the exit, clearly interested in following.

Holliday tips back his glass, draining the remainder in one gulp. He sets it on the bar as he goes out, nodding to Blutox.

Infirmary - Station 419 - [IC]

Steran arrives from the mall, the infirmary's outer transparent aluminum doors sliding silently closed behind him.

Mekara stands beside an old, tall Romulan male, carrying a Romulan Medkit. He nods as Doctor Holliday enters. "Doctor Holliday, I presume," states what must be Dr. Kevoor.

Holliday chuckles. "You were expecting maybe Dr. Livingston? My distinguished colleague, Dr. Kevoor then?"

Steran appears in the infirmary after Holliday. He takes a few moments to have a glance at the various instruments of the med bay.

Kevoor nods once. "Indeed. I am somewhat honored to be in your presence, Doctor Holliday. Your reputation as a physician precedes you."

Mekara waves this on boredly. "Yes, yes, you two can mate later. Let's get this over with. Ambassador Steran and I need to talk."

Stavek arrives from the mall, the infirmary's outer transparent aluminum doors sliding silently closed behind him.

Stavek walks into the infirmary to talk to the Doctor. His eyebrow raises in textbook quickness as he notes who is present...

Mekara is standing beside a tall Romulan male, older in years, carrying a medkit. Two Centurions wait off to the side of the room, staying quiet.

Holliday opens a drawer, takes out a hypovac. He raises a brow, a little surprised at that comment. "Really? Well, for a while, I thought your reputation had preceded you as well in the form of a nasty geneginered virus.. I'm glad to say I was mistaken." He smiles, "Good to make your acquaintance, Dr." A look to Mekara. "Now now. Be 'patient'."

Steran stands besides the Centurions, observing the proceedings.

Stavek looks at the Doctor, and says, "Good evening Doctor. What exactly is going on here?" He looks pointedly at the Romulans, and again raises his right eyebrow. "Do they require medical attention?"

Mekara looks to Holliday. "Not until you have drawn a live sample from my brother, Doctor. Or did you intend to show me his official DNA record? The ones falsified by Starfleet Intelligence?"

Mekara ahs. "The Vulcan acting Commander, Stavek. How are Commander Balin's shoes, Vulcan? Fit well?" she asks him.

Steran smiles. "Greetings, Commander. I am Ambassador Steran of the Romulan Empire." He bows with formality.

Holliday nods to Stavek. "Evenin', sir. Elective visit, so to speak." He looks him over for obvious injury.. He approaches Mekara with the hypovac. To Kevoor, "You're welcome to use our equipment for this, but I imagine you'd rather stick to your own.." To Mekara. "I'd considered it, but decided it wasn't ethical. I do however, have a recent sample from Lt. Nevaren we can use. Or you can wait and practice that virtue while I try to get him in there. I don't think Ghorev wants to be cooperative." Holliday, on the other hand, certainly -sounds- like he's trying to be cooperative..

Stavek says, "It is illogical to assume I would wear his shoes, Centurion. Starfleet provides appropriate footwear to all it's personnel. We do not "recycle" footwear." Knowing exactly what she meant, he ignores the barb. He bows slightly at Steran, and says, "I am honored to meet you Ambassador. Welcome to Station 419." He nods to the Doctor, and remains silent as the Doc continues talking.

Steran says "Thank you. Perhaps you can clear up a minor administrative issue here that will lead to a relaxation of tensions between your crew and ours."

Mekara shrugs. "Then we will wait, Doctor, for Nevaren."

Doctor Kevoor looks to Holliday. "Indeed, a live sample is the only way to insure of its accuracy and validity, Doctor. I'm sure you'd ask only the same." He sets the medkit down and removes a hypovac of his own.

Stavek nods to Steran, and says, "I see. What administrative issue would you be referring to Ambassador? I have read all the communiques from Starfleet on our alliance."

Steran shakes his head. "It is... a recent one. The Subcommander and your Lt. Nevaren wish to undergo a comparative DNA test, but the Lieutenant's superior officer is trying to block the test by forcing an assignment on him in his off time."

Holliday chuckles. "I'm sure I would." He pockets the hypovac, nods. "I'll see what I can do about getting the crewman in question in here for sampling then." To Mekara, "Just sit tight, Subcommander Mekara." He steps over to Stavek, elaborating on the situation in hushed tones and accompanying elaborate gestures..

You mutter to Stavek, "Chief Ghorev's given Nevaren repair duties on the Aegis to keep him out of the Infirmary for this test. I know I could override that order on medical reasons, but I'd rather not step on his authority any more than I have to..."

You mutter to Stavek, "Mekara's claiming kinship with Nevaren..."

Mekara smiles, looking toward Kevoor.

Stavek nods to the Ambassador and says, "I see. I will endeavor to discover why that is happening. Excuse me please." He nods to the Doctor, and moves out of earshot, even of the Romulans. "I see," he replies to Holliday. "I will make it an order then, if that is what is necessary." He blinks at the revelation, and says, "Fascinating."

Steran waits patiently, watching from a distance.

Holliday considers. "That'd work. Just have him come by the Infirmary on his way there should do it." A chuckle. "I don't think he's disembarked just yet.. Last time I saw him, he was walking slow.."

Stavek nods. "I understand. I will suggest to the Chief Engineer to expedite matters for our wayward officer. That will save his pride I believe."

Holliday grins, nods an affirmative. "Sounds like a nice, round, logical solution to me."

Mekara continues to stand there quietly, beside her doctor. The two Centurions watch on stoically.

Stavek nods. "Why thank you Doctor. That is a compliment. I will endeavor to make this matter a priority. If you see him before me, you may request the matter for me. If he has a problem with it, he can contact me immediately."

Holliday nods, chuckles. Waits for an objection from Mekara.

Mekara looks toward Holliday. "Now who is stalling? I don't have all night."

Stavek raises his eyebrow. "Impatience is for the young, Centurion. Isn't that right Ambassador?"

Mekara looks to the Commander. "For your logic to work, Commander, you would need all the facts. I have important matters of state to discuss with my Ambassador. This is not only inconveniencing me, it is inconveniencing him."

Steran clears his throat. "The Subcommander has been waiting for an extended time. A few members of your crew have been most uncooperative, although the majority have not."

Mekara smirks. "I may have contributed to that, some." She shrugs. "It is no matter. Just call him in and we shall be done with it."

Holliday smiles, shakes his head apologetically. "Of course." Like he just remembered she was in a hurry. "Well, maybe we can get this moved along while she still is young, sir?" A chuckle. "I admit, I'd like to get this matter cleared up fairly soon myself." Another smile. "Of course, I'm sure those repairs won't take Nevaren more than a week or two. He's very efficient. Would save us having to countermand his Department head."

Mekara smirks and looks to Kevoor. "More stalling." She looks back toward Stavek. "When this is settled out, I will make myself available to you for the testing. Shall we, Ambassador?"

Steran nods. "As you wish." He adds, "I do hope the Federation is not going to be this difficult with every little detail..."

Stavek does not respond. "I will talk to engineering and ensure that the delay is concluded. Is that acceptable?"

Holliday quirks his mouth. "Another couple of minutes isn't going to matter too much, I'd think? It's going to be easier to arrange this while you're showing your intent to cooperate.." A shrug. "I can take a sample and start it processing, and we should be able to have Lt. Nevaren in here by the time that's done, if that's acceptable?"

Stavek nods. He taps in a few commands to his PADD, and forwards a message to Ghorev.

Mekara bahs. "I am tired of your delays! Bring him here now and let us conclude this, or allow me to go with the Ambassador. An extraction will take two minutes, and then he can go busy himself about the Aegis. But I want him to be here to witness the blood coming from my body. His blood."

Holliday steps towards Mekara, taking the hypovac from his pocket. He pauses at her words and nods. He looks to Stavek, and then taps his commpin. "Lieutenant Holliday to Lieutenant JG Nevaren."

There are a few seconds delay as the comm badge performs a subspace linkup.

Stavek nods at the actions of the Doctor, in agreement. "I have already sent a message to Ghorev.

A voice over Holliday's comm badge says, "Lieutenant JG Nevaren here."

Holliday says into his comm badge, "Yeah, Nev. If you haven't disembarked yet, do you want to come to the IR for a couple minutes? -Doctor's orders-."

A voice over Holliday's comm badge says, "Right.. Be there shortly, Nev out."

Holliday terminates transmission with a tap on his comm badge.

...

Nevaren arrives from the mall, the infirmary's outer transparent aluminum doors sliding silently closed behind him.

Stavek nods and folds his hands behind his back. He nods to Nevaren and awaits the results with great interest.

Mekara sighs in exasperation. "Finally."

Nevaren limps into the infirmary cautiously. He stops just a few feet past the door. Seeing everyone, he sighs. "So... what's happening?"

Stavek says, "Please submit to the tests requested by Doctor Holliday Lieutenant."

Holliday chuckles. "Not a lot, yet. Lemme see your arm." He holds up the hypovac. "You know the drill, I think."

You say "While you're here, I'll take a look at your leg too," He looks to Mekara, quirks his mouth, "But, uh, let's get this done first.."

Nevaren nods, unrolling his sleeve to reveal his arm which is completely covered in cris-crossing white scars, even paler than his already pale skin."

Mekara pushes her sleeve up to, approaching Holliday. She regards Nevaren, her eyes touching on his own. She does not speak to him, however.

Stavek watches with absolute cool regard. He looks over at Mekara and Steran and studies them without staring. A fascinating pair...

Steran observes the whole affair from beside the Centurion escort, his interest in the test veiled, but apparent nonetheless.

Holliday withdraws some blood from Nevaren, then from Mekara as well. "All right. I'm volunteering you all as witnesses to the veracity of the sample sources." He nods to Mekara's physician "Your turn?" And then slips the sample cartridge into a slot for DNA analysis.

Nevaren rolls up his sleeve and just watches as Doc takes a sample from Mekara, his face unreadable.

Stavek nods slightly to the Doctor. He considers the test and ponders what it would reveal after the test were completed.

Kevoor moves to each in turn, withdrawing samples of his own. He moves across the room to his Medkit and inserts each cartridge in turn into the medical tricorder he carries.

Nevaren looks around, taking everything in, trying to fight the urge to just turn and walk away.

Stavek looks at Nevaren carefully, and subtly shakes his head.

Holliday watches the computer process the results. ((99.2 percent probability that they share the same mother.)) He looks to the others, rubs his hands together like he's dusting them off. "Well, that was speedy. Dr. Kevoor, you'll inform Mekara of the results I trust? Due to Federation Medical Standards and Practices, I'd appreciate if you do that confidentially. You can use my office if you'd like to do so now.." He gestures, then looks to Nevaren and Mekara. "Although you're both free to share this information with anyone you'd like, of course."

Mekara looks to Holliday. "I would like to speak to you and my brother alone then, Doctor."

Stavek looks at Mekara carefully at the revelation. He then looks at the Doctor and nods again. "That would seem to be...logical...Doctor. Unless you want me there as well."

Nevaren nods slowly. "Of course doctor. But right now... I waive the confidentiality, though. Just tell us... tell me. Because I would rather the others hear it rather then viscous rumors spread across the station.

Holliday nods. "Lets double check this I guess, since we've got the opportunity." He steps away from the console display, gesturing for Kevoor to take a look if he wants, and indicates the Romulan's tricorder. "Dunno how much luck we'll have reading the chart so to speak, but if you'd like.."

Nevaren 's voice goes very low and direct. "Just tell us here.. now."

Mekara looks back toward Nevaren while Kevoor finishes up. He doesn't have the benefit of the station's computer. The Romulan doctor displays his results to Holliday.

Nevaren doesn't look at Mekara, or at anyone else for matter. his gaze seems directed at something very far away.

Steran stands there with the same look of mild interest he has worn since entering the infirmary.

Holliday nods. "Albright, if Mekara concurs." He looks to Kevoor, "I'm not actually sure of Romulan Medical Law. Do you have something similar?"

The Romulan doctor shakes his head. "I'm afraid we don't, Doctor. But since this is your Infirmary, I give you the honor of announcing the results."

Stavek waits patiently...

You say "Well.. There's always a margin of error in any test. That's pretty low in this case though." A slight shake of his head, "It's about 99 percent certain that you share the same mother.." He tugs his moustache tip.."

Mekara looks to Nevaren. "Leave us," she says of the others. "All of you."

Nevaren just nods, as if he already knew somehow that lady luck would not be with him this day. "I see. I thank you for your help, Doctor." Nev then looks at Mekara for the first time. "It seems I misjudged you at least in one way, though I doubt so in any other. Just because I am your brother, do not think that it goes any farther than genetics. I owe you, nor the Romulans nothing." Nev then turns to Stavek. "Sir, as of this moment I am requesting the forms for my resignation. Also, I would like to state for the record that I will be pressing charges against Starfleet for it's gross violation of my rights to privacy as a federation citizen. My records were sealed by Starfleet intelligence and it seems that their promise to my anonymity was a false one."

Steran raises his eyebrows, about to say something, but cuts himself off.

Holliday sighs. "Some reunion. Don't you two kiss and make up all at once now.." He gestures to the others, stepping towards the door. "Lets give them a moment.."

Stavek looks at Nevaren quizzically. "I see. You are within your rights to request those forms. I will send them to your PADD of you require. We will discuss this further at length, Lieutenant."

**** After the others have left... *****

Mekara looks to Nevaren and sighs. "I'm sorry," she says sincerely. "I thought you would be happy to find kinship among your people. But I can see you won't be able to find kinship in me."

Nevaren looks at Mekara, sighing. "WHy should I find kinship with you or the rest of the romulans. They abandoned me. You spoke of plausable denial earlier, why they couldn't save me or mother.." nev unbottons his jacket, shrugging it off. he then lfts his shirt, reveailing a white torse completley covered in deep, old, criscrossing scars. "This is what the romulan's 'plausable denial' got me. 15 years of torture at the hands of the cardassians, shunned by all bajorans but a lonley old vedek.."

Mekara frowns, "Nevaren, if I would have known about you, I assure you, I would have come for you. But I didn't know about you until yesterday." She reaches out to touch the scars. "The Cardassians will pay for what they did to you," she says. "I swear it."

Nevaren shakes his head, lowering his shirt. "I killed the ones who did this to me. I snapped the Gul's neck like a twig. That is over. The past is over. Romulus doesn't want, or need, a halfbreed freak like me. The cardassians didn't. The Bajorans didn't. The Vulcans didn't.. now it seems the federation doesn't either."

Nevaren carefully picks up his jacket and slips it back on.

Mekara states, "I do. You are my brother."

Nevaren says "What good would I be to you Mekara. I'm 'tainted' by federation ethics. I will never be an equal to any other romulan. I don't have anything to offer you or the empire. I'm... I'm damaged goods, as they say."

Mekara sighs softly. "Why don't you get some rest and we will talk about this later?"

Nevaren sighs, suddenly looking very old and tired. "Maybe you're right. I need.. I need time alone to think. And sleep."

Mekara smiles to him. "If you want to talk, I will stay on the station for a while."

Nevaren nods slightly. "Okay. Later then."

The Romulan Subcommander says "Nevaren? Don't throw away your career. I managed to acquire the intelligence from an adversary in the Senate."

Nevaren looks at Mekara. "Did he get it from from Starfleet? I mean legally? That doesn;t even matter. My career ended when the others discovered I was kin to the enemy. It's not even your fault, really. You couldn't help being my sister. Look at it this way. Station 419 was my redempption, Cmdr Balin my savior. it took a long time to earn his respect and trust, after all I caused him. Now how will he treat me when he discovers this."

Mekara nods. "I'm sorry, then, Nevaren, for bringing you pain. I did not expect this response."

Nevaren shakes his head. "I can't fully blame you, Mekara. And I won't. I knew I would have to face this one day, I was just hoping it would be on my own terms." He turns and starts walking out of the infirmary. "Sleep well... sister."

Mekara smiles as she walks out.

*** Meanwhile, Outside.. ****

Mall S5 - Level 7 - Station 419 - [IC]

Mall Level/Sector Five is moderately well trafficked as most portions of this level. The gunmetal-grey corridor of the mall is much more spacious than any of the other station corridors, approximately ten meters across and two decks high. There is no upper level, but the raised ceiling gives one more of an 'open air' impression. Large, elliptical transparent aluminum viewports overhead provide a spectacular view of the stars, contributing to the simulated outdoor impression of a perpetual night sky. The whole impression of the mall is one of passing through a garden. Planters throughout the corridor, blooming with all sorts of strange and exotic flora, give a gradual 'winding path' effect which tends to break up the monotony of the circular corridors. The fresh oxygen that the plants provide carries with it the smell of their many perfumes. All manner of sentient beings can be seen moving through the Mall, heading into a shop, loitering at one of the smaller kiosks, or, in the case of a large number of uniformed personnel and civilians, passing in and out of the station's infirmary.

Outside a viewport the blue-white flash of the anomaly can be seen.

Steran comes out of the Infirmary.

Mekara's centurion guards come out of the Infirmary, taking relatively unobtrusive positions near some potted plants.

Kevoor also exits the Infirmary, joining the centurions.

Steran clasps his hands, and says, "Well... at least that's settled."

Stavek comes out of the Infirmary.

Stavek says, "Fascinating."

Holliday stands at the door of the Infirmary, keeping the portal open with his presence until the rest of the group join him, then he steps back. To Steran, chuckling, "Try telling -them- that." To Stavek, with a nod. "Interesting development." Pause, "You think he means to go thru with it?"

Steran responds, "Indeed. Although, I was hoping that if the test proved try, the Lieutenant could become an icon for the cooperative efforts of Romulans in this alliance, however..." He trails off.

Stavek nods with Steran. "I agree." He looks at the Doctor and says, "I do not know Doctor. He has to find his own way right now. His decision is his own."

Holliday smiles. "That's a good point. There was some cooperation between us at some point, obviously." He chuckles, then shakes his head. "You're right. Just want to be sure he's thinking it thru, I guess. Any way you could see clear to.. ah.. not get him those forms with utmost expediency? Give me a chance to have him talk to Counselor Crae?"

Stavek looks at the Doctor coolly, and nods. "Yes, I can wait before I forward him those forms. I think that is an excellent suggestion, Doctor. Have him talk to the Counselor."

Holliday chuckles, nods. "Thanks. Right. He's got a few things to work out whether he stays in or not... Might as well make use of the facilities while they're available.." He looks to Steran. "So, Ambassador.." He pauses, trying to think of a topic of conversation..

Steran looks to Stavek. "Well... it is most unfortunate that our initial meeting had to take place in such tumultuous circumstances..."

Stavek nods and agrees. "Yes Ambassador. It could have ended in worse conditions however."

Holliday chuckles, nods. "Considering what I could have been called in for, this wasn't so bad."

Steran nods. "Very true. With the arrival of personnel, it is in our best interests to allow Romulan staff members to integrate quickly. Has Admiral Whitehorse contacted you about our arrangements with respect to studying the anomaly?"

Stavek shakes his head. "No. I imagine it is one of those messages that are awaiting me at this moment." He turns to the Doctor and says, "Could you keep me appraised of the situation here?" He nods to the Ambassador. "If you will excuse me."

Steran nods. "Of course, Commander."

Mekara comes out of the Infirmary.

Stavek nods to Mekara as he departs.

Steran looks to the Subcommander as she arrives from the Infirmary.

Mekara steps out, regarding Steran. "Now that is concluded, do you wish to speak, or wait until a later time? In the interests of getting to know my brother, I am extending my visit to 419."

Steran nods. "I have time to speak, if you do. It is, after all, a valuable job skill in my profession." He smiles.

Holliday nods to Stavek. "I'll keep you posted." He looks to the Infirmary door now, as Mekara departs. "I should go see about Nevaren's leg.." A nod to Steran, "Ambassador." A nod to Mekara, "Subcommander." A nod to Kevoor, "Doctor, nice working with you. We'll have to stay in touch- I'm curious about your medical procedures, as you may be about ours?"

Kevoor nods to Holliday. "I find the prospect of collaboration indeed intriguing."

Mekara looks toward the ambassador. "All right." She nods to Holliday. "Thank you, Doctor."

Holliday smiles almost wickedly to Mekara. "Sure. ..Oh, if you're planning on an extended stay, be sure you drop back by for a physical. Protocol, you understand." To Kevoor. "Good enough." To all, "If that's all then.." He doesn't really wait for an answer, already stepping towards the Infirmary..