TRIBUNAL Part 1 - Opening Ceremony

Posted on Mon May 27th, 2019 @ 6:40pm by Captain Enalia Telvan & Petty Officer 2nd Class Ila Dedjoy & Death & Az'Prel & Maica III 47 & Kodria Mizu & Hera & Baroness 2nd Class Schwein von Alcott & Baroness 3rd Class Sarika & Commander Rita Paris & Lieutenant Commander Thex sh'Zoarhi & Lieutenant Commander Mnhei'sahe Dox & Lieutenant Commander Sonak & Lieutenant Asa Dael & Lieutenant Samuel Clemens XV & Lieutenant JG Rena Pacci & Petty Officer 2nd Class 'Big Ethel' Jablonski & Petty Officer 3rd Class S'Rina Wil'I'Ams & Petty Officer 3rd Class V'Nus Wil'I'Ams & Jaeih Dox-t'Aan
Edited on on Mon Jul 1st, 2019 @ 11:17am

Mission: Fractured Fairy Tales
Location: Artan Family orbital Fortress Trial Hall
Timeline: 2396 - Part 1

This was it - the day of the actual Tribunal had arrived and the opening ceremony had begun. The Trial halls had been prepared, and arranged so that each Baroness could bring up to three crew with her. Each of the Royal family could bring up to nine crew, as per the laws by which they all abided. As for Captain Magnus, he was allowed four; as he presided over the proceedings, as hopefully an impartial party.

The holographic maids were in top form today- ushering the groups to their respective dressing rooms to prepare for entry into the trial halls. They had been remodeled from their normal knee-high black and white maid outfit and cat ears and tails, to something more akin to an ankle length warrior maid outfit. They also carried sabers, though it was unclear if they were programmed in how to use them or not. Either way, it was the only type of weapon allowed on the floor of the Trial hall and this was a constant reminder of it.

As Captain Telvan arrived with her group, she was shown to one of the two Royal family dressing rooms, where they could freshen up before being introduced to the assembly. The maid that escorted them bowed politely. "Princess, please wait here and enjoy these comforts while you wait. As procedure dictates, the fourteen Baronesses will be introduced in reverse order of rank, then yourself, then the Queen Regent. Do you find this agreeable?"

"I do," replied Enalia as she glanced at her collection of companions. "I have four late arrivals as well, if you don't mind escorting them here."

The holographic maid bowed again. "I must remind the Princess that she is allowed nine crew on the floor. However as two Baronesses are present, if they would be so kind to be introduced separately, three crew each are allowed, as per the Tribunal guidelines."

"Understood. Once they arrive, we'll work out the details." Then Enalia realized their first issue. Captain Magnus was already in there... But Dox was the first one that would be introduced since she was the very lowest ranking Baroness. Tugging down on her white Starfleet dress uniform, she turned to her Romulan Flight Control Chief. "Mnhei'sahe, who do you want to go out with you? Or would you rather go out as part of my crew?"

The red-headed Romulan Lieutenant and Baroness was fidgeting slightly with her own white, Starfleet dress uniform as she had never had to wear it before today. Taking a brief moment, she thought on the Captain's question before answering. "As I see it, Captain, if I come out as part of your crew, the other Baronesses will view me as only Starfleet and I would be concerned that it would invalidate my own legitimacy as a Baroness."

The spotted captain grinned her usual lopsided piratical grin. "You've grown into a fine officer and, if I might add, a fine Baroness. I agree completely."

As she spoke, Dox turned to look at the crew that was her family, uncertain. The entire Command crew was present, along with the Vulcan refugee Az'Prel and Dox's mother, Jaeih. The two had been sent out on a top secret mission of Intelligence gathering and had returned successfully only hours ago.

Before the anxious young officer could speak, her mother stepped forward in her standard grey Intelligence tunic and the customized comm badge in the shape of the Romulan sigil Rita Paris had made for her. "Captain. With your permission, it would honor me to stand with my Daughter as a member of her crew." As she spoke, the stern face of the elder Romulan cricked an eyebrow and the slightest of smiles as she nodded towards her unlikely partner in espionage, Az'Prel. A questioning gesture that read clearly as 'are you in?'.

The Vulcan woman stepped forward as well, her hands at her sides. She was dressed in something resembling Artan crew livery and looked mildly uncomfortable in the fancy clothing. "It would be remiss of me to not volunteer my own services in this instance. I too will accompany you." After a slight bow of her head, she continued. "We come to serve."

As Az'Prel and Jaeih stepped behind Mnhei'sahe, Commander Rita Paris nodded silently to a gold-clad security officer, Petty Officer Lu, to go with the group to fill out the three available slots. Paris had briefed the Security personnel she'd brought on this mission, and they all knew their parts in the plan.

As she did, Mnhei'sahe shot her First Officer and friend a smile and then turned back towards the maid. "We're ready."

Then the maid once again spoke up. "Baroness Mnhei'sahe Dox, the hall awaits you. If you and your crew will follow me."

With a final tug on her crisp, white uniform top, the young Dox turned and smiled at the rest of the crew nervously, as she knew she would have to put her best face on the second she turned back around. 'First out the door, dressed in Starfleet white. They're going to love you, Mnhei'sahe.' She thought to herself as she turned back to the maid and followed with Az'Prel, Jaeih, and Lu close behind her.

Lieutenant Commander Thex was waiting with the rest of the group feeling nervous as she gave her Starfleet formal wear another one last look over. She was thankful for her twins not being big enough to have her body show any signs of being pregnant. She didn't want any of the Baronesses or the other pirates to know. Still, she was going to help her friend no matter the risk. She had the bracelets that would allow her to summon the armor of Achilles tucked into her pocket just in case. Not that she'd be needing them she hoped to herself.

As for Commander Rita Paris, this was the culmination of entirely too many sleepless night, miles paced in worry and concern, and plotting and planning that had made her question her convictions, her morals, as well as how far she was willing to go to protect her crew, and her Captain. In the moment, finally arrived at the situation, she found herself possessed of a preternatural calm. There was, she felt, very little that could occur in this proceeding which would surprise her. She knew their opposition, she knew what was likely going to happen, and she had contingencies and plans in motion which might or might not come to pass.

Whatever happened, she would be ready for it. After all, she’d made a promise to a little girl who very much wanted to see her grandmother when she woke up one day in the far-flung future, and Rita Paris wasn’t in the habit of breaking promises to little girls. Especially not when she was all decked out in the crisp white of a modern-day Starfleet dress uniform, which made her feel like a Big Damn Hero. The soft white and gold piping looked austere, even if she wasn't quite so accustomed to having so many medals on her chest and wrists. Once she had looked them all up, she was actually surprisingly decorated as an officer.

Which was nice, but overall she was just happy they were such a vast improvement over the dress uniforms of her own era, which she recalled with an involuntary shudder.

This situation was a tightrope she didn’t want to walk- but aside from that promise, this was for Enalia. The woman had saved her life, and given her a port when most would have thought her useless. She was her captain and her friend, and she wasn’t going to allow this to destroy her. She’d take a disruptor bolt for the woman, and damned if she’d let a controlling old murderess ruin her friend’s life any further.

At her side stood Sonak, seemingly quite at ease in his formal wear. The whiteness of the upper portion made his greenish-copper skin stand out glaringly, which in turn made his steely grey eyes almost luminescent under his blue-black typical Vulcan haircut. As it were, he looked more stern than any of the judges would be. But the glint in his eye was that of the curiosity of the exosociologist observing from a privileged standpoint the laws and customs of an alien people; not judging, but observing, studying, understanding; but most of all ready to stand by his commanding officer. There was no emotional involvement, only logic. But loyalty was the logical stance of a Starfleet officer towards another.

Lieutenant Samuel Clemens, the USS Hera's Intel Chief, stood there at parade rest, in the gleaming white of a Starfleet dress uniform, his bright blue eyes rapidly scanning the room in some detail from under his bushy brows. What the shorter, wiry man was searching for, he did not disclose in present company, but his gaze was that of an eagle, awaiting the other shoe to drop.

"Ok, with luck, Schwein and Jablonski will get here before they're called." Enalia pursed her lips thoughtfully as she considered their next steps. "Since she still has no crew... I think Jablonski should go with her as a show of force. And since she's Hera's honor guard, and no one else here should technically know who she is..."

Enalia had more to think on this, but was interrupted by the holo-wall display springing to life with the proceedings in the Trial hall being broadcast. The round mahogany chamber was centrally lit and sparsely furnished, compared to the rest of the fortress, having instead relatively simple handrails, furnishings, and no plants whatsoever. Even the walls were blank white, with just mahogany trim around the doors that led to each of the pseudo balconies.

Fourteen were arranged on a lower level around the main floor with two on either side for the royal family members and their crew on a slightly higher level. At what could be called the head of the round room was another balcony at the same level as the two royal ones - the only one with a desk. The five seats were already occupied by Captain Magnus and his chosen four crew, one of which was his own daughter.

In the center of the room one of the holo-maids announced the first of the Baronesses to enter. "I present to you, Baroness fifth class Mnhei'sahe Dox, of the Artan ship Khallianen and the Federation Starship USS Hera... and her crew." She then held out her arm towards the doorway and the balcony that they were assigned just as Dox and crew stepped out and took their seats.

The holo-maid then moved on to begin introducing the next Baroness in line, but Enalia interrupted the holographic playback. "Computer, volume ten percent." With the volume subdued, they could at least discuss their plans, but still have an eye on the opening ceremonies.

"Well, Commander? What are your thoughts? Is there a third that should go out with Schwein?" Enalia asked, turning to her first officer, just as Schwein and Jablonski were escorted into the room by one of the holo-maids.

The eye patched pirate was fussing with her white and gold Baroness dress jacket with the cape as she entered, which seemed to fit a bit more tightly than the last time she wore it. "Mein apologies for our tardiness, Prinzessin. We have what we need."

"For the Baroness von Alcott, no mere retinue would do," Paris declared. "It's good to see you both, and I'll trust that you have good news for me. I'll also trust you to deliver it at the appropriate moment, Baroness. For now, Jablonski, you're with the Baroness. But why don't we request the attendance of our VIP suites 11 and 13 to attend as the remainder of the Baroness' retinue? It will be interesting to see who can 'pierce the veil' as it were."

"Agreed," Enalia grinned as she knew few of the Hera's own crew could see one of their own guests, and the other, while powerful, was somewhat unassuming.

''A logical approach,'' commented Sonak.

"Thank you, Mister Sonak. Jablonski, pass on my orders and get them down here on the double. And it goes without saying, this is a hostile negotiation and I expect treachery, so remain on high alert. As I said, swords only until I give the word, understood?" Paris fired off her orders in shorthand, but the stout guardian understood, and started calling the Hera for reinforcements for the Baroness.

Sonak, of course, was not wearing any sword nor phaser, since both were not part of Starfleet's formal dress code. But as a Vulcan, he was allowed to wear something of his own culture as a part of it. Hence why his hips were belted by his anh woon, the inconspicuous-looking twin length of weighted leather that could be used as a most bewildering whipping and entangling weapon, in the hands of a kolinahr master like himself.

It only took a moment from that point for Taxes to make the trip from the Hera with both of its riders. Though to most it looked as if Hera popped into existence while dismounting an invisible horse, those that could 'pierce the veil', saw the pale horse arrive with both riders through some sort of deathly film and step off with the surety that comes from genuine practice with such animals.

Hera moved to greet her favorite person with open arms. "Rita, my darling. You look divine. You all do. I'm told that we are to accompany the Baroness von Alcott?"

Gratefully accepting a Hera hug, Rita Paris smiled at the matron goddess. “Thank you for coming. Yes, if you would be so kind, ma’am. The Baroness lacks a crew, and I can think of no better retinue for the next Asgardian in this instance. Petty Officer Jablonski? Whatever happens here today, not a single hair on her head. We are in accord?”

Stepping forward, the hulking captain of Hera's honor guard nodded once. If trouble erupted, she would fight til her last breath to ensure the safety of her charge, as would any good defender. Standing behind the goddess, the Amazonian Security officer stepped in protectively close, and it was clear to Paris that her orders would be carried out to the letter, no matter the cost. It might have been a trick of the light, but Rita could swear Jablonski swelled up a bit as her brows set and she hovered protectively over the goddess.

After Rei patted down Taxes, she dismissed the pale horse and turned to the collection of officers, wondering just how many would be able to see her during these proceedings. And if they could... How they saw her.

Clemens' parlor perusal paused, as he heard the hoofbeats incoming. A wide grin crossed his face, as he turned toward the sound, and saw not only the lovely Lady Death, but also the loyal Taxes, and the surprise passenger, the Goddess Hera. Sam gave a slow head nod to the arrivals, and with a twinkle in his eyes, returned to the micro-monitoring of the room for any potential hostile developments. "Should've brought an apple for Taxes..." he mused.

"He would enjoy that," Rei softly intoned, curtseying before the southern gentleman. "I hope you don't mind that I will be escorting a Baroness this eve."

The man with the eye of the tiger caught her gaze as he continued to be vigilant, and said in a low tone, pitched for her only, "I would never presume to infract upon your duties, sweet Rei. I look forward to seeing this affair through with you nearby." He swept past her countenance as though nothing had passed between them, continuing to divine what treachery might come, a slight upturn of his mouth incrementally betraying his improved humor.

“So it looks like the musicians are in place, the orchestra is tuned, and the singers are ready to take the stage. Captain?” Paris turned to the Trill woman and placed one hand on each of the white uniformed shoulders, and she peered directly into the eyes of the pirate princess. When she spoke, her voice was low and soft, for these words were for Enalia alone.

“All of your life has led to this moment,” Rita Paris began, searching for the words that might inspire her captain, to lend her fortitude in the trial ahead.

”This is your one moment in time, when you are racing with destiny. You are stronger than you know, cleverer by half, and you have a crew who are willing to lay down their lives all out of loyalty to you. Not rank, not orders- we’re all here solely because here and now, in this time and place, you need us. So whatever happens out there, remember- you earned our allegiance, one and all. Which makes you light years better than someone who rules through fear and murder. We've assembled a solid case, we've used teamwork and trust, we've planned for the contingencies and we're all here to stand beside you.”

"A crew and a family, and I admit I don't see a difference between them." The Pirate Princess Turned Starfleet Captain took a deep breath and adjusted her dress jacket once more before addressing everyone. "My mother may have designed me to be what I am, but because of my time with everyone else, I am who I am. I am also not alone in this. We are not ever alone. Even in our darkest moments, we rise up because of our peers and those behind us, pushing us forward to be better than who we were yesterday. To be the best versions of ourselves."

"The Queen Regent does not see that, and cares nothing for true morals or principles. She cares about power and holding onto it. She always has. That is why we must be the best that we can be today. To show her and everyone assembled that while we do indeed work in the shadows, there is a better way and that in the end, the principles and morals of the Federation do win out every time."

With that, Paris led a cheer, "Hooray for the Captain!"

The cheer caught on, and the assemblage all joined in, in their own ways. "Well said, Captain. Wait'll they get a load of you, eh?"

The holo-maid spoke up, motioning towards Schwein. "Baroness von Alcott, it is time for you and your crew to be introduced. If you would please follow me."

As Schwein stepped forward, Hera, Rei, and Jablonski took their places with her and were led out of the room, only to appear on the holo-screen moments later as they were introduced to the ten other assembled Baronesses. There was a bit of a fuss with a few of the Baronesses, as there was a disconnect between a select few being able to see Rei, and everyone else reporting only two crew with her.

"So if they can see her, does that mean they're not long for this world, or they're just a little too chummy with Death?" Rita muttered.

Making a delayed entrance and looking freshly washed, Doctor Dael entered quietly, waiting to be seen and signaled if needed. The doctor had just come off an 18 hour shift in sick bay delivering a child that had been loathe to enter the universe. After a quick wash to refresh body and mind, the doctor stood, ever ready, med-bag in hand, waiting for instructions.

"I suppose it would be a bit of both," Enalia mused, making a mental note of those that reacted to the presence of Death. As Enalia waited, she turned back to the remaining crew and marked out who would go out with her. "Rita, Thex, Sonak, Asa, Sam, Rena, and the two Wil'I'Ams sisters. I think that should be a good showing."

Maica leaned in, giving her wife a good, long, passionate kiss. "I think it's a marvelous selection. I'll keep an eye on things here and cheer you on."

"Thank you, my love," the Trill woman replied softly, her hand softly caressing her green holographic lover's cheek.

"In step, move as a unit, drill formation flying diamond, people," Paris ordered, and quickly lined everyone up for the Captain's entrance. With everyone arranged, Paris called the cadence. "We all step out on the left, and let's show these freebooters a bit of Starfleet coordination and discipline, shall we?"

Leaning in to the Captain, Paris nodded. "Is the word given, Captain?"

Just then the holo-maid spoke up. "Princess Enalia Telvan, it is time. If you and your crew will please follow me." She ten motioned for them to proceed out and towards the chambers.

"The order is so given," Enalia confirmed, adjusting her uniform one last time and taking her place at the head of the procession. As they stepped out into the spotlight shining on the large double doors leading onto their balcony, Enalia stood at military attention as she waited for everyone else to take their places in front of their seats. Then as one crew, they all sat down together.

Meanwhile, the holo-maid acting as an announcer in the center of the audience chamber was calling off the announcement of the Captain and her crew. "Ladies and Gentlebeings of the assembled Tribunal. I present to you the Ruling Princess of the Artan Pirate Lineage. Savior of Haslak nine. Defender of The Fortean Rifts Alliance. Scourge of the Syndicate. Passion of Starfleet Academy. Exterminator of the Twin Suns Pirates. Breen Bane. Defender of the Unified. Protector of the Free. Princess Enalia Telvan!"

A few cheers went up as the announcement was finished, but a couple dirty looks were also tossed their way.

Then it was the Queen Regent's turn. She came in with as much hatred and vinegar in her veins as a Disney villain. Of her chosen nine, most looked like life had chewed them up and spat out the worst parts as gristle and pirate stereotypes. One man stood out though - he wore a gold and red uniform similar to those in the mirror universe's Terran Empire and though the emblem on his chest was that of the Artan family, there was no mistaking the dagger at his hip for anything but a relic of that universe.

Over in Dox's balcony, Az'Prel stiffened visibly and leaned in towards Jaeih. "Him..." she said, indicating the oddly dressed man in the Queen's retinue, the venom barely concealed in her Vulcan tone. "That is the father of my daughter."

Setting her eyes upon the man from the mirror universe, Jaeih replied with a discreet whisper only Az'Prel and Mnhei'sahe could hear. "Then we know who needs to be asked some questions before this is over, Az'Prel. Will any luck, we can ask him in as unpleasant a fashion as is possible."

The holo-maid announcer, if it was possible, seemed slightly less enthused about announcing her entry. "Ladies and Gentlebeings of the assembled Tribunal. I present to you the Queen Regent of the Artan Pirate Lineage." She then began listing off title after title, each one sounding worse than the last.

After several minutes, Arenara waved it off. "That's enough. You may dispense with the rest of my accomplishments as we would be here all day."

With a slight bow, the holo-maid continued. "Queen Regent, Retired, Arenara Artan!" Unlike for Enalia, there was no celebratory noise making, other than the possibly collective sigh of having the introduction over with.

Captain Magnus then raised his gavel and slammed it down twice. "I hereby call this, the third tribunal of the Artan Family to order."

"If there are any objections or grievances, let them now be aired..."

Continued in Tribunal - Parlimentary Procedure...