A Simple Thank You

Posted on Wed May 6th, 2015 @ 1:10pm by Ulani & Captain Enalia Telvan

Mission: The New Sydney Fiasco
Location: Ten Forward
Timeline: After Ulani Speaks with Ethan and Dylan

Ulani had a rough start aboard the Hera. It was difficult to tell Ethan about his father. At least she did meet Nexi, a girl that was recommended through a mutual contact. Now Ulani just needed some down time. Time to unwind and relax.

Quickly, she dressed in black form fitting pants and a black sleeveless shirt. Her boots for tonight only came halfway up the calf. She headed for Ten Forward, ordered a drink and sat at a table viewing the stars. She contemplated just which direction the three Ferengi were at. Deep down, she knew they would show up. She had plenty of feelers out and was getting more each day.

Enalia didn't often spend time in the lounge, but with all that had gone on, she wanted to be more available to the crew as a whole and that meant trying to mingle. Well... She was there at least. Never mind that she was sitting in one of the darker corners with her customary tea and pastries, staring out the window. She too had a lot to think about and though she was technically available for anyone to approach, the mood around her was just too somber for most to try.

Ulani began to think about what Ethan had said to her. Had the drinking become too much. Its easy for him to say; he's not alone anymore. Perhaps she should cut back when she's around him. She sat the drink on the table and stretched her arms back, cracking her back up the spine on the edge of her seat. Glancing to her left she noticed the Captain, sitting alone.

Ulani stood from her chair and approached the Captain. She seemed to wish to be alone at the moment, but Ulani wished to take advantage of seeing her in this setting. A civilian couldn't just walk onto the bridge and demand to talk with the Captain.

"I see you are deep in thoughts," Ulani affirmed, "so I'll keep this short. That is if you don't mind, Captain."

Slightly startled from her reverie, Enalia glanced up at the woman she had only met via a viewscreen prior to now. "No, please, join me. I came out to the lounge so I'd be available, though it seems to always have the opposite effect," she said as she motioned to one of the other chairs at her small table. "What can I do for you?"

Ulani sat down across from the Captain. It was one thing she had never accomplished and was glad. The highest responsibility she had achieved was Chief of Security. She did not want the pressures and concerns of an entire ship or station upon her shoulders.

"It is good to finally meet you face-to-face," Ulani admitted. "Ethan has said much about you...and I wish to thank you for protecting my son when I couldn't be there for him."

Enalia flashed one of her knowing smiles and nodded respectfully. "I was just in the right place at the right time. You know how that is, I'm sure. I'm just glad I was able to escape and get him out of there alive as well." Raising her teacup in a salute, she sipped the cool beverage and set the cup back on its saucer. "He talks about me does he? All good I hope."

"Not one complaint," Ulani chuckled. "The past four years have been hell. I'm sure the shorter amount of time for you hasn't been heavenly."

"I swear, if I ever have to deal with temporal BS again, it'll be too soon. about six hours in the past and we miss four years of the present. I'm just glad there's no sign yet that says we messed up history." Enalia replied with a shake of her head. "And sorry about making him CMO. I swear the position is cursed. My four prior CMOs all died. If I could have left him as assistant and named the EMH CMO..."

Ulani grinned, "He'll do you proud."

Ulani pressed on, "I'm not sure if you know why I'm out here. I've been tracking a few Ferengi who have done damage on Earth. I've recruited a few people. One is not a civilian...I was wondering, when the time came if Air...Lieutenant Saxa could be on loan. She would be helpful as I wouldn't have to concentrate on flying."

"I had a suspicion. Hence why I offered to speed that one unfortunate Ferengi along his way." Enalia said with a chuckle. "I'm sure you heard about his attempted visit. As for my Chief Flight Controller... She's almost as good a pilot as I am and a better shot. Mission allowing, from one intel officer to another, just let me know. If she doesn't object, I won't either."

"A previous host as an Intel Officer helps too," Ulani chuckled. "I've already met with Airi. Nexi too. Both of them remind me of myself. I figure the Ferengi Slavers will have their hands full with us. Their ears will get all fidgety."

Enalia raised her hand as if to object. "I don't want to know any more than that. The less I know, the more I can deny and all that, you know."

Ulani gave a knowing smile. "Thank you again, Captain. If there is anything I can do for the Hera and her crew while I am here, just let me know. Your hospitality has been greatly appreciated."

"All I ask is that you help me keep from losing a fifth Chief Medical Officer." Enalia replied with a weak smile. "And stay as long as you like. There's plenty of room."

"I just might take you up on that, Captain," Ulani added. Then she noticed the weak smile. Ulani realized she had spent a good bit of time discussing her needs. Now, she wonder how the Captain was faring.

"What about you Captain? How are you holding up in all this?"

That was a good question and a fair one. How was Enalia holding up. To be frank, she had no idea how she was still holding it together after losing so many of her crew in so short a time. Still with that weak smile, she did her best to reply. "Hard times have fallen upon us. I'd like to think I'm holding up better than most and at least providing a stable point for everyone, you know?"

Ulani saw the effects of the weight upon the Captain's shoulders. She bears everything about her crew upon her shoulders. Ulani reached for the Captain's hand and gave it a squeeze.

"Promise me you'll see Ethan if the stress becomes unbearable. When all this is over, think about a leave. You know the ancient saying about all work and no play..."


Enalia enjoyed the brief comfort, squeezing Ulani's hand back. "Don't worry, I will."

Ulani slowly removed her hand. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got some searching to do. Be well, Captain. And again, I'll lend a hand anywhere you need!" She flashed that grin full of mischief, turned and exited Ten Forward.