Third Annual BF betleH Tournament

Third Annual BF betleH Tournament (http://www.betleh.com/cgi-bin/b3/YaBB.pl)

Before the tourney >> XFY prepares >> Zylla Arrives
(Message started by: Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian, XFY aCIO on Feb 8^th, 2005, 9:38am)

Title: Zylla Arrives
Post by Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian, XFY aCIO on Feb 8^th, 2005, 9:38am

ON:
<Transporter Room 3, Xavier Fleet Yards>

The trepidation she'd been feeling ever since leaving Trill for XFY deepened the moment she stepped on to the station. She looked around, seeing everything for both the first time, and for the nth time, and noting the heightened security. XFY was hosting a bat’leth tournament, she was told, which was why the ship she’d hitched a ride on from had been put into a parking orbit rather than docking, and she’d been beamed over. She sighed, adjusting the strap of her bag so it sat more comfortably on her shoulder, and then nervously adjusting her commbadge and new rank pin as she headed for where she knew the nearest turbolift was.

Zylla: Deck 219.

The turbolift began its ascent, as she raised her hand to her shoulder. Grabbing empty air, her hand moved higher, grabbing a lock of chin-length black hair and tugging. The tug startled her out of her thoughts and she let go of her hair quickly.

Zylla: *muttering* I've got to try and control these habits that aren't mine.

The turbolift stopped, and she took a deep breath before walking out onto deck 219.

A human male and two Vulcans, one male, one female, stood in the small reception area of Xavier Fleet Yards Intel department. The female Vulcan stepped forward with a frank demeanor.

T'Ren: Good afternoon, Lieutenant. *taking note of Zylla's collar and pips* Your purpose here?

Zylla: *politely* Good afternoon, Ensign T'Ren. I'm here to report to Commander Jackson.

The Vulcan woman quirked an eyebrow, her head tilting to one side.

T'Ren: I have an eidetic memory, Lieutenant. You and I have not met. How do you know me?

Zylla's eyes going wide were the only outward reaction of what she'd just realised she'd done.

Zylla: ...I'm sorry about that, Ensign. My last host met you. *small cough* I'm still sorting out my memories from those of my past hosts.

T'Ren's eyebrow remained raised, but she relaxed and took her hand away from her sidearm.

T'Ren: Your name, Lieutenant? To which ship or unit are you attached? *gesturing at the retinal scanner* Identify yourself to the computer, etcetera. I'm sure you know the routine.

Zylla: Zylla Rian. I've just been stationed on Xavier.

Walking up to the retinal scanner, she stood on tiptoe on the rung of the stool next to it in order for it to scan her eye.

Zylla: Computer, identify. Rian, junior Lieutenant Zylla. Blue-5-9-Gamma.

Computer: There is no Rian, Zylla on record.

Zylla blinked, then swore in Trill.

Zylla: Don't tell me they haven't updated my files yet!

The three people in the reception area not Zylla Rian drew their phasers and pointed them in her direction. All three wore steely looks. T'Ren acted as their spokesperson.

T'Ren: Raise your hands, Ma'am. Keep them raised while Petty Officer Schrage confiscates your sidearm. Do not move or you will be fired upon. Do you understand?
You're being taken into custody under the authority of Starfleet Intelligence Directive 34 detailing the detention of unauthorized personnel. Do you understand?

Zylla suppressed the urge to keep going with swearing at the computer, and also suppressed the urge to roll her eyes as she raised her hands.

Zylla: Could you please call Commander Jackson out here? He knows who I am.

Behind Zylla's back there was a sound. The double doors embossed with the logo of Starfleet Intelligence sliding open. A man's voice spoke, evidently addressing her.

Jackson: T'Ren, Schrage, Remek, stand down. I've been expecting *a pause* this person.

The one of the three guards Zylla could see lowered his weapon. Presumably the other two she could see also did so. Zylla lowered her hands cautiously, and then turned around. Then tilted her head back to look up at Jackson. Then tilted her head back further. He was a lot taller than he'd seemed via commscreen.

Zylla: *saluting* Reporting for duty, sir.

Jackson made a curt gesture indicating she should follow, and then turned to walk into the main area of the Intel Department without bothering to see if Zylla was even following. Zylla fell into step behind him, lengthening her step and walking a little faster than usual in order to keep up.

Jackson's voice was brisk and efficient; he didn't bother to turn around, though perhaps he did slow his pace ever so slightly.

Jackson: I'll see to it that your proper data is input to the station's computer. It should have already been so. My apologies, but our personnel have strict orders concerning the detention of those who attempt to enter this area without proper authorization. You'll have to go through the process of identifying yourself to the computer and passing retinal scan each time you come on shift and when you return to the department any time you leave during the course of your shift. I demand punctuality from my personnel, Lieutenant and there is usually a queue at shift rotation times.

He was leading her through a large open area with several worktables. Many people stopped to look up, a few pointed and spoke with one another as they passed. Jackson stopped at the doors of what looked like an office. Reading the doorplate, Zylla could see it belonged to him. Zylla nodded, even though she knew that he wouldn't be able to see that.

Zylla: *stopping behind Jackson* Yes sir.

Jackson keyed a sequence into the panel beside the door, and then nodded to the doors as they opened.

Jackson: This is my office. Don't even think of being in here if I'm not or I haven't told you to be. We're clear on that?

Zylla: Crystal, sir.

Jackson nodded, and walked into the room. Entering, he remained silent as he turned to look at the young Trill.

Jackson: Well? What're you waiting for?

Zylla cocked her head to the side and blinked, then silently walked into the office.

If Jackson's breath caught for just a second, it was just that, for a second. When he spoke, he was a man at the centre of his very universe.

Jackson: So, you're Zylla Rian.

She wasn't surprised; on the trip to XFY she'd decided it would be 50-50 as to whether Jackson would be able to tell before she told him herself. She nodded slowly.

Zylla: Yes, sir, I am.

Jackson: *deadpan* And you're here. On Xavier. Why?

He slowly walked behind his desk, but didn't sit. He turned around to face her from the other side of the desk, as though confidant it was moat against something that he did not understand.

Jackson: The fleet would have put you somewhere else if you asked. Why are you here, Zylla *Rian*?

Zylla had been about to reply with the obvious, then stopped and cocked her head to one side again as she tried to answer that very same question herself.

Zylla: *slowly* Because asking for a transfer off Xavier before I even got here would have been too much like running away.

Jackson's eyebrows went up and he nodded in her direction. Perhaps he was impressed? Slowly he sat behind his desk, but did not yet invite her to take a seat. Zylla put her hands behind her back and laced her fingers together, to keep herself from accidentally slipping into Jaell's hair-tugging habit again, and waited silently.

Jackson waited a solid minute, sitting behind his desk. For perhaps ten or fifteen seconds he perused a PADD. Setting it down, all he did was *look* at Zylla, his blue eyes boring into hers, weighing and measuring. Then he nodded at one of the chairs in front of his desk.

Jackson: Take a seat, Lieutenant.

Zylla nodded back, unlacing her fingers so she could put her bag down next to one of the chairs and then sat in it, putting her hands together in her lap and lacing the fingers together again. Jackson's eyes held hers a moment longer, then returned to the PADD. He tapped it, pursing his lips and then raising an eyebrow.

Jackson: Three Nausicaans and a Ferengi, Lieutenant?

Zylla: *without batting an eyelid* They were irritating me.

Jackson: And Cardonia Prime? Who irritated you that time?

Zylla: That time was my older brother.

Jackson nodded, seemingly content with her answers. He picked up another PADD from his desk, tapping it with a finger. After a moment he set it down.

Jackson: And tell me, Lieutenant, what was it like to be one of the first Trills in Starfleet?

Zylla was silent for a few moments, sorting through all of her new 'memories,' and thinking.

Zylla: It was...complicated. Those of us who joined Starfleet, we didn't talk about the symbionts much. Not after the misunderstanding when we first met the Federation. But it was also interesting. Most of the races in the Federation were ones we'd never met before,
so we got to learn a lot about them.

Jackson nodded, leaning back in his chair.

Jackson: Lieutenant, I shall be perfectly frank on the subject at hand. Your job will be challenging, demanding and fast paced. Depending on the circumstances, it could even be hazardous.

Jackson rose, walking to the replicator and tapping a key. He took a coffee tray from the
dispenser and set it on the desk.

Jackson: *aside, gesturing at the tray* Help yourself. *taking a cup of coffee and a Danish pastry from the tray and sitting* My question would be are you sufficiently in control of yourself, your selves perhaps I should say, to be capable in the position to which you've been assigned?

She thought about that as she poured a coffee for herself, then adding milk and quite a bit of sugar.

Zylla: Yes. Sure, I'm still constantly finding myself slipping into habits that aren't mine, and saying things that I -- that *Zylla* -- didn't know, but that's not going to stop me from doing my job. If I thought it would interfere, I'd still be on Trill adjusting before coming out here.

Jackson raised an eyebrow, his coffee and Danish untouched.

Jackson: You're here to do your duty? And that's all? There's no other reason for you to be here?

She stirred another sugar into her coffee, still not having drunk any, and looked up to look Jackson square in the eyes.

Zylla: There are reasons enough for me not to be here, sir, but like I said...that would have been too much like running away. I'm here to do my duty. *she cleared her throat and glanced down quickly before looking up* And Rian -- and I, I guess -- want to see what happened to Jaell get solved.

For a moment, Jackson's features visibly softened. He looked away, addressing the floor.

Jackson: You're, neither of you, the only ones. I still have a team on the matter, working with Culshaw at Medical and with *he caught himself, then stopped* and with Station Security.

Zylla didn't say anything when Jackson caught was he was saying. She looked a little sad, then something Jackson said -- or, rather, didn't say -- caught her attention.

Zylla: Not with Tirren Niko?

Jackson turned to look at Zylla, his eyebrows both rising.

Jackson: You *have* been away. A day after you...I mean...a day after Jaell died,
Tirren Niko was killed. Neither of the people sent to guard him had arrived yet, but he and fourteen others died when their transport exploded. DS9 reported no survivors. CID has a vessel looking in to if the explosion was an accident or not. My guess? Not.

Zylla lowered her head, looking down into the untouched coffee in her cup.

Zylla: Oh...*clears throat, looks up* That means the files he had, too...and if the ones in Infirmary were being wiped...*bites her lip, thinking* What about Jaell's personal backups?

Jackson: *raising an eyebrow, genuinely surprised* I wasn't aware there were any. Her quarters have been sealed. No one has been in them since she died, except to get her dress uniform for the casket.

Zylla nodded, her mind whirring as she sorted out the memories she wanted to look at.

Zylla: Yes…she got mad at you a couple of years ago, and began keeping PADD backups of all her important files in her quarters. It became a habit that she never lost. The last backup she did was the night before…*falters slightly*…before she woke up sick.

Jackson took a sip of the coffee mug in his hands, swallowing thoughtfully.

Jackson: Only one thing to do, really. I’ll speak with the command staff, exactly who, well that’s in a state of flux at the moment, and then see to it you take custody of what is, after all, your property.

Zylla sighed and looked into her cup, tilting it slightly to make the coffee swirl around in it.

Zylla: Yes...Nyv...*they* probably consider everything evidence, right?

Jackson tilted his head to one side, a bemused look passing over his face as he pondered how to respond to both the question and the mutual inclination that was apparent in his office at present, that being to avoid any reference to the station's security chief.

Jackson: I once knew a prosecutor who used to declare everything she could to be evidence, to disrupt the lives of those whom she intended to prosecute. Someone in Station Security's ranks has evidently taken lessons. Yo...those...particular...apartments, are guarded, to this day, by a phalanx of security officers in body armour and mourning armbands, with phaser rifles. Now, could I get past them, one way or another, possibly. But it's something that will have to end. Something for Admiral Arelwynn or Commander Kajiada to deal with though, really. Not my business, or yours. *after a moment, and quietly* She's going to have to realize, no matter how many legionnaires she posts, the stone isn't going to roll away.

Zylla tilted her head to the side and blinked, looking puzzled.

Zylla: The...stone?

Jackson: *raising a rueful eyebrow* My apologies, Lieutenant. I voiced my thoughts. But, that said, do you mean to tell me that at no time in ten lifetimes did you study comparative religion?

Zylla frowned, digging through all of her memories, trying to come up with the reference.

Zylla: In past lives, there's been some study of it...Kardasi -- well, Hebitian, the modern Cardassians don't have much to do with it; Bajoran, Rihannsu....*frowns, keeps thinking*
Legionnaires....that would make it the Terran Christian religion, I think....but I can't remember anything about a stone rolling away.

Jackson nodded, then stood and walked to one of the bookshelves that lined his office's walls. Pressing a brief sequence into the panel adjoining the bookshelf, he deactivated the force field that protected the contents from damage.

Jackson: I'm going to give you a couple of things, Lieutenant. A book of poems, by a man named William Butler Yeats, a human poet. And a book that will tell you the story of the stone to which I referred, as well as many other bloody tales, which at their core made up one of the great human spiritualities. *selecting two books from the shelf and then reactivating the force field before turning around* These are loaners, you understand? I expect them back when you've finished with them.

Jackson walked to his desk and laid the books near the edge, closest to his new assistant, then sat again behind his desk.

Jackson: Of course, this is an aside, but the reference I made pertains to the resurrection of a man named Jesus from the dead. It's said, and it's debated even now by some as to if this is myth or history, that he rose from the dead. A fanciful tale, I say. But I was referring to his tomb. An analogy not entirely appropriate, and quite flawed. But this is what you get when you get me thinking aloud. *a bow of his head* My apologies, Lieutenant.

Zylla looked at the two books on the desk and nodded.

Zylla: Thank-you, sir. *looks up, shakes head* I find when people start thinking aloud, that's when you learn the most. *very softly* For good or ill.

She swirled the coffee around again, and cleared her throat.

Zylla: So I should ask the Admiral if he could do something so Security will let me into Jaell's quarters to find those PADDs?

Jackson leaned back in his chair and shrugged his shoulders thoughtfully.

Jackson: Well, Lieutenant, it's entirely possible we can get into those particular quarters without including the CO. I have authority as station second officer. And there's the matter of just whom exactly it would be letting us in to consider. I could.... handle her *a
small cough* handle the *matter* in your stead, if you'd prefer.

Zylla sighed, and looked up, absently fingering her collar.

Zylla: Right now...that would probably be best, sir. *glances down* I'm going to have to...sooner or later...though...

Jackson nodded, and then stood up, clearly deciding a change of topic was necessary.

Jackson: Chief Mason will be briefing you, Lieutenant, regarding your role as A/CIO in charge of Operations. It's a matter of courtesy that I'm sure someone with your experience understands that I'm letting John keep his office; we'll just put the appropriate nameplates in the appropriate places. Don't worry, his is a closet anyway.

A clear attempt at humour.

Zylla nodded, not bothering to hide relief at the topic change, and also stood up, putting her cup down on the desk.

Zylla: Yes, sir.

Jackson: You probably also noticed the heightened security on-station. Over the next few days we’re going to be playing host to a fleet-wide bat’leth competition.

Zylla: Yes sir. I heard that when I arrived, when the ship I was on had to be put in a parking orbit. That means Xavier’s about to be overrun with Klingons, I take it?

Jackson: Along with everyone else in the fleet that knows which end of a bat’leth is which.

Jackson indicated the offered books on the desk with a tilt of his head as he made his way to the door, tapping his commbadge to summon John Mason to Mason's own office.

Jackson: Don't forget your books. By the way, would you prefer a man or a woman?

Zylla picked up her bag and shouldered it, then carefully picked up the books.

Zylla:...how do you mean, sir?

Jackson stopped short, turning to face the young woman he was going to have to accept as both one of his principle aides and as the next incarnation of the Trill symbiont Rian, whom he'd known as a doctor with whom he butted heads as often as he agreed. Then again, his discomfort was likely a small patch on Zylla's own. Still though, he was stern looking at her.

Jackson: Do you remember Jaell remembering Ms. Kincaid, my aide?

Zylla: *raising an eyebrow* Your bodyguard, you mean? Sir.

Jackson grinned, nodding and impressed.

Jackson: Yes, indeed. Ms. Kincaid is a member of what down here we call Foxtrot Squad. An elite unit that provides various services to a select group of people. Myself, Mr. Hanniman, the A/CIO for Analysis. Mr. Singh, the a/CIO for Strategic Operations. And you.

Zylla simply nodding, not saying anything and waiting for Jackson to go on. Jackson continued, visibly considering how to phrase his next words.

Jackson: Well, given your situation, I'm going to be making it mandatory that your Fox, be with you at all times while you're on duty. And I'm going to suggest, though not require, his or her presence in your company when you're off duty. Given how...how things worked out for you. The last you I mean.

Immediately Jackson shut his mouth, aware of just how cavalier he'd sounded and just how wrong that was.

Zylla looked up and blinked, then smiled grimly.

Zylla: And Zaeny before Jaell, too. Rian hosts seem to be having a run of bad luck with life expectancy.

She shifted the books in her arms, and then nodded slowly.

Zylla: All right. I understand. *another grim smile* I'd kind of like to break that cycle, myself.

Jackson nodded, handing Zylla a PADD.

Jackson: Those are the members of Foxtrot Squad who are currently up for rotation of their current duties. You're free to select of your own accord. They're all quite capable of the duties required of them. Hence I ask, a man or a woman? It really is up to you.

As the two left the office, Jackson turned to look at Rian, she was Rian, again.

Jackson: Precious few things in this life or any other are entirely up to us, Lieutenant. So cherish this decision, as small as it might be.

Zylla nodded again, taking the PADD in her free hand and examining the list there.

Zylla: Yes sir.

Jackson: *nodding* I'm aware you've been killed in action before, Lieutenant. But I don't intend for you to be killed in action this time.

There was only a ghost of a smile this time, quickly wiped back to a neutral expression and a nod.

Zylla: Yes sir. Experiencing it twice was more than enough.

Jackson nodded at Zylla, then at the approaching Ms. Kincaid.

Jackson: Ahh, Claire. Meet Zylla Rian. Lieutenant Zylla Rian. She'll be our a/CIO operations, taking over from John.

Kincaid's nod was civil, and she called Zylla "Ma'am." But beyond that, her poised demeanor was frosty at best. Jackson ignored her apparent lack of pleasantry.

Jackson: I take it Mr. Mason is ready to meet his new boss, Ms. Kincaid?

Kincaid: *coming to attention* Sir, yessir. He's awaiting your convenience, sir. Yours and the Lieutenant's.

Jackson raised an eyebrow at Kincaid, and then nodded for her to fall in. Turning again to Rian, he smiled again, a crooked grin.

Jackson: Ready, then?

She half-wanted to say no, but instead she just nodded.

Zylla: Ready sir.

OFF

~By~

Lt. Cmdr. David Jackson
Chief Intelligence Officer
Xavier Fleet Yards

~and~

Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian
Assistant Chief Intelligence Officer (Operations)
Xavier Fleet Yards

Title: Labo An Navi
Post by Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian, XFY aCIO on Feb 8^th, 2005, 9:39am

ON:
<Intelligence Department>

David Jackson led his new a/CIO (Operations) through the main Intel Department "Bull Pen" on Deck 219 of Xavier Fleet Yards' main module. As they walked and talked weaving through mostly open cubicles, Jackson nodded toward the large double doors which the young woman, whom he would have to get used to being Zylla Rian and not Zylla Citocran, followed in his wake.

Jackson: Through there, of course, is Access. It's the only way into the Department's area from the station proper. If you're me, Mr. Hanniman, or, I suppose, you, Lieutenant....*a pause as if remembering something* or if you were Vice Admiral Arelwynn, it is possible to beam in, but that's during a Red Alert situation or other dire emergency only. If you do it at 0200 because you want to skip the doors, well, when the computer wakes me up I'll be less then pleased. Follow me?

Zylla gave a shadow of a smile, and inclined her head in assent.

Zylla: Yes, sir.

Jackson made a broad an expansive gesture, taking in most of the large bullpen with its regularly spaced and uniform sized cubicles, most occupied by busily working men and women. Many were ensigns, with a smattering of warrant officers and enlisted personnel. Most seemed quite diligently about whatever it was they were going about, occasionally moving between their desks to speak to one another.

Jackson: These are mostly Mr. Hanniman's people, reviewing and compiling information as it comes to us from various sources. The Tactical Sensors managed by Security are very effective systems. Careful though, they're quite fond of their precious T-Scan operation, so always ask nicely if you need pictures. Inter-departmental cooperation, and all that jazz.

Jackson saw Zylla nod at that, and kept walking, toward a small open looking lift shift. It clearly wasn't an actual station turbolift, but rather something smaller for use within the Intel Department's three-deck domain.

Jackson nodded toward the lift, actually a trio of such units, side by each, as he and Zylla joined the shortest queue.

Pointing at the floor, Jackson smiled almost roguishly.

Jackson: We keep the Strat folks down on 220. Mr. Hanniman oversees their operation down there as well, co-ordinating the day to day operations with Lieutenant Singh. In many cases Strategic Operations is an independent department, but our current layout is such that it falls under my jurisdiction. *a tight smile* I have Admiral Neirbo to thank for that. *getting on the lift and speaking whimsically* Then again, perhaps it's time they have their own space again, it would make some of them very happy.

Jackson shook his head and ceased musing aloud, turning to smile again at Zylla.

Jackson: So if the Analysis people are covered, and the Strategy people are covered, that leaves what, Lieutenant?

Zylla: *one eyebrow arching ever so slightly* Operations, sir.

The two disembarked the open lift after a brief ride up to the next deck.

Jackson: *deadpan* Indeed. Your office will be up here. There are a couple of empty ones; you'll be free to chose from them. If you really *want* Chief Mason’s office, then you can have it, but there are larger and more posh places available. Operations is based from up here, Infiltration Specialists, Interview Specialists, Counter-Intelligence Operatives, Extraction Specialists, R&D, the armoury and quartermastery are here. Specialized personnel who could fall under either Mr. Hanniman's jurisdiction or Mr. Mason's...forgive me Lieutenant, of course I meant under your jurisdiction, yours or Mr. Hanniman's depending on the circumstances, they also have offices on his deck. Also, we have some modest training facilities, although much of that sort of thing of course takes place on sealed holodecks and on the environmental decks and other areas the locations of which you can be briefed on at a later point. If you haven't ever seen the sort of work that's done on those decks, by the way, you most certainly should. It's quite amazing. *a small cough as he realizes that of course she's seen them, just SHE
hasn't.* Yes, well, regardless of that, it's time for you to meet Mr. Mason, I believe, and collect whatever briefing notes he has for you. He'll also assign you your primary bodyguard, although given your situation I've asked him to look into the feasibility of providing you with more comprehensive protection.

Jackson stopped outside an office that presently bore only a nameplate reading "CWO II J.P. Mason." A second doorplate had obviously been recently removed. Jackson cleared his throat and looked down at Zylla.

Jackson: I'd ask you "any questions" but I imagine the answer is in the affirmative. And since I don't intend to answer them here and now standing outside this door, I'll hold off. Come back to my office when you've finished here, but feel free to settle in your office before coming back down.

Zylla: *nodding* Very well, sir. I'll do that.

Jackson raised an eyebrow, and then nodded toward the door.

Jackson: In you go, Lieutenant Rian. *a brief pause* Labo a’navi. Probo tuiego

Zylla: *dryly* Khnai'ra rhissiuy.

Jackson: *quirking an eyebrow* You speak Romulan, Lieutenant?

Zylla: *nod* Yes. Kardasi and Klingon, as well. *pause* More accurate to say Rian knows Rihannsu and Klingon, actually, Zaeny was fluent in both. I only knew a little of each until joining. *sheepish grin* I'd actually meant to speak in Trill, but found myself speaking Rihannsu instead. Zaeny used to do that a lot.

Jackson nodded thoughtfully, then turned and walked away. Stopping a meter or so away, he spoke, but did not turn around to face Zylla.

Jackson: This cannot be easy for you, Lieutenant Rian. Know that I sympathize.

That said, Jackson left at a brisk pace, leaving Zylla Rian in front of the door. As he left, Zylla took a deep breath, straightened her shoulders, and rang the buzzer. The voice that answered was gruff and brisk.

Mason: Come!

The door slid open and Zylla walked in, hands clasped behind her back. Her eyes briefly flickered around the small office, taking in the cases with the rifle, armour, bat'leth and medals before settling on the silver-haired man behind the desk.

Zylla: Chief Mason? I'm Zylla Rian....no, please don't stand up. *smile* You're as tall as me sitting down, and my neck hurts from having to look up at everyone.

Mason nodded in acquiescence to the instruction not to stand, his face betraying no emotion. His greeting was polite, if quite…succinctly brief.

Mason: Sir.

He indicated the chair across from his desk. There was also a small couch in the office, but it was occupied by a disassembled weapon of some kind, the manner of which was not entirely discernible, as well as a large filing crate filled with PADDs.

Mason: Welcome to Xavier Fleet Yards, Lieutenant.

Zylla inclined her head, and took the indicated seat, her eyes briefly flickering over everything again.

Zylla: Thank-you, Chief.

Mason: I was about to have a cup of tea, Lieutenant. May I offer you one as well?

Zylla: *brief smile* I would, thank-you.

Mason smiled somewhat thinly.

Mason: I will, of course, have to stand up in order to do so, Lieutenant.

The flat look those brown eyes turned on him at that point was a look that an early Rian host had perfected, and all other hosts since had picked it up without realising it.

Zylla: *deceptively mildly* Since when we're both sitting I'm looking up anyway, Chief, I don't think it makes a difference.

Mason seemed unfazed by the gaze directed his way, largely unfazed at least. His head cocked slightly to the side, as if taking note of something he'd seen before but not expected to see again.

Mason: *graciously* Of course, Lieutenant. *rising and moving to his replicator, speaking with his back to Rian* Do you take cream? Honey? Would you care for a wedge of lemon?

Zylla: Just black with sugar, thank-you, Chief. *brief pause* Four sugars.

Mason addressed the computer ordering their tea in cups with saucers. Coming around the desk he offered Rian the darker of the two cups with a nod of his head.

Mason: There you are Lieutenant.

Returning to his desk he sat, taking an experimental first sip of his tea. Scowling, he inclined his head apologetically.

Mason: You will have to forgive me, Lieutenant. I keep trying to get it just so, you understand. Never have quote gotten tea like I remember as a boy. Ah well. Likely futile, that.

She raised an eyebrow just slightly, taking a small sip of hers.

Zylla: *reflectively* Memory's a funny thing that way. Nothing ever is quite like you remember it.

Mason took another sip and then set his cup down on its saucer.

Mason: So, here you are. But you're not who they said you'd be, are you, Lieutenant?

Zylla cocked her head to one side and blinked, looking a little thoughtful.

Zylla: No, not entirely. Not anymore. Now I'm me, and everyone who came before me.

Mason nodded thoughtfully, then sighed somewhat.

Mason: As the person handing over the position to you, and as one of your principal subordinates, I'm supposed to fulfill certain duties, Lieutenant. I'm supposed to brief you on current operations being handled by our Division, as well as bring you up to speed on the overall picture. It's also my responsibility to assign you your bodyguard. Foxtrot Squad is the best of our best, Lieutenant, and I shall remain their Lead Operator. We're whom you come to for wet work.

Zylla nodded, and took a sip of tea, waiting for him to continue.

Mason: Operations personnel not actively deployed or on standby for deployment, which, given the nature of things presently is most of the complement, are generally assigned to training rotations and guard duty. *a dry smile* The latter of which is particularly exciting for our people, I'm sure.

Mason indicated the crate of PADDs on the sofa behind Zylla.

Mason: Everything is covered in great detail there, Lieutenant.

Zylla glanced over at the crate, then back at Mason.

Zylla: Is there anything I should know about now?

Mason considered that, taking another sip of his tea.

Mason: There are three deep cover operatives on Trixia at the moment, two of mine. Yours. And one from HQ. Looking into the terrorist organization that calls itself "Trixian True Path." They're the ones who kidnapped Admiral Neirbo; the file regarding that is in the crate. We've also got people who visit colonies on a couple of the rougher moons in this system every so often, keeping tabs on local underground types. Station based operations involve coordinating with station security to ensure that known watch listed persons don't embark or disembark here. Which is a larger job then one might think, given the size of this station. There are things we could do if we had more personnel. But we don't. Something that could change in the future, but at the moment we make due with what is our allotted dole.

Mason paused a moment and then elected to elaborate further.

Mason: This job, really, is defined largely by Commander Jackson's job. Which is in turn defined by the CO's. The CO needs to know everything relevant that happens aboard this station, and in this system, and this sector, etc, etc. Commander Jackson needs to be able to provide the CO with much of that information. We need to be able to provide it to Commander Jackson, which means you do, in conjunction with Mr. Hanniman. That's the day to day. Beyond that, every so often, you get to have some fun.

Zylla: *taking a sip of tea* Our two are Matthews and Jat, right? Is there any way to bring Matthews back briefly? She's going to need the masking redone in about a month and a half. *pause, another head tilt and blink* What do you mean by 'fun'?

Mason stopped short, blinking and somewhat off guard if only for a moment.

Mason: I take it then we've not been properly introduced, Lieutenant. John Patrick Mason, Lieutenant, sir, formerly Gunnery Sergeant Mason of the Marine Corps, now CWO, Starfleet Intelligence. And you're Zylla Rian. That or you're David Jackson, somehow. Or Erica Matthews has gotten a lot better at her job and is in deep trouble for impersonating an officer.

Zylla: *smiling* I'm sorry, Chief, after Commander Jackson picked it before I even introduced myself, I guess I didn't think to mention it. I'm Zylla Rian, yes. Formerly Zylla Citocran. I'm the tenth host for the Rian symbiont -- Doctor Jaell Rian was the ninth host.

Mason: A pleasure, Lieutenant Rian. Commander Jackson is quick on the uptake; I'll give him that. He's even reasonably swift, for an officer. *another polite smile* I'll see to it that Matthews is extracted and brought back in short order. Shouldn't be too hard to arrange. Business trip or something of the like. *sitting back in his desk chair* As to your question about what I consider fun, well, every so often people come along who need to be asked some questions. And every so often, they don't want to be forthcoming. I enjoy...encouraging cooperation.

Zylla: *neutrally* Ah, I see.

Mason: *shrugging* Whether you enjoy it or not, Lieutenant, I suggest you brush up. It's in your job description now, to be part of interview teams. *a pause* I'm sure you can put various areas of knowledge you now possess to effective use in that regard, Lieutenant. *very mildly* More tea?

Zylla: *crooked smile* Indeed. Jaell -- *a* Jaell, at least -- was quite an effective 'interviewer.' Perhaps she still is. *shakes head* No, thank-you, haven't finished this one yet.

Mason nodded, then finished his own cup and visited the replicator for another.

Mason: Do you have any other questions, Lieutenant?

Zylla thought about that for a moment, and then shook her head.

Zylla: No...wait. You and Commander Jackson both mentioned a Fox?

Mason nodded, and then tapped a few commands on the computer console on his desk.
Mason: Yes, Lieutenant. Your bodyguard. Or, well, your "administrative assistant" if we're being politically correct.

Zylla: *small smile* Or circumspect.

Mason nodded, then posed the relevant question.

Mason: So has the Commander given you the PADD with the dossiers of the personnel eligible for the assignment as your aide?

Zylla nodded, picking the PADD up from where she'd put it and looking at it.

Zylla: Yes, but...I don't know any of these people, Chief. Reading a dossier on a PADD is one thing, actually *knowing* what they're like is another. *pause* You know them. Who do you think is best for the job?

Mason: Assuming you have no preference regarding gender, Lieutenant, I'd suggest Petty Officer Yumeko Seiya. Something tells me you two would...bond.

Zylla raised an eyebrow ever so slightly, and simply nodded.

Zylla: Very well. Petty Officer Seiya it is.

Casually, Mason consulted a PADD in front of him, peering at it as if still not sure the information it was providing was accurate.

Mason: Your average range score with a type-II is really 91%, Lieutenant?

Zylla: *calmly taking a sip of tea* It is indeed, Chief.

Mason set the PADD down and looked at Zylla frankly. His expression was not disbelieving, per se, but it was certainly....quite frank.

Mason: I should very much like to see that.

Zylla: *slight smile* Anytime, Chief. Stationary, moving, or both?

Mason: Foxtrot Squad has a standing schedule, Lieutenant. I could forward it to the computer terminal in your office, if you like. You're welcome to join us. I'm sure you'd find our training scenarios more then...adequate.

Zylla: I'm sure I will. Yes, please, do that.

Mason nodded, tapping a command to the computer console behind his desk.

Mason: Yes sir.
Finishing her tea, Zylla put her cup down and stood, indicating the crate.

Zylla: If you could give me a hand with this, please, Chief? I'm not going to be able to lift it along with everything else I have to carry.

Mason stood, nodding acquiescence to the request. Moving around his desk he took his uniform jacket from his coat tree and slipped it on, then picked up the crate.

Mason: Has Commander Jackson informed you of your office assignment, Lieutenant?

Zylla picked up her bag, the books, and her PADDs, shaking her head.

Zylla: No, he just told me which ones were free and said to pick one. So I'm just going to take the nearest one.

Mason nodded, then indicated the general layout of the surrounding area with his a broad look around.

Mason: I apologise, Lieutenant. That our little trio of decks have no windows. But, you know, nature of the beast.

Zylla raised an eyebrow, indicating surprise that such a thing even needed to be mentioned.

Zylla: Of course.

Mason nodded, and then indicated that Zylla should take the way.

Mason: After you, Sir.

Zylla gave a slight nod, leaving the office and heading towards where she remembered the nearest free office was.

OFF:

I can’t quite remember what Jackson said ‘labo a’navi. Probo tuiego’ means, but IIRC it means something along the lines of ‘sink or swim. Good luck.’

‘Khnai'ra rhissiuy’ means ‘thank-you very much,’ at least according to the Rihannsu-English site I use ^_^

~By~

Lt. Cmdr. David Jackson
Chief Intelligence Officer
Xavier Fleet Yards

~and~

Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian
Assistant Chief Intelligence Officer
Xavier Fleet Yards

~and~

Chief Warrant Officer 2nd grade John P. Mason (PPC)
Intelligence Officer
Xavier Fleet Yards
~ Played by:
Lt. Cmdr. David Jackson

Title: Re: Zylla Arrives
Post by Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian, XFY aCIO on Feb 8^th, 2005, 9:40am

ON:
<Rian’s office>

David Jackson was bristling. His first interaction with Vice Admiral Valren Arelwynn had been...interesting. Certainly he hadn't intended to be leaving Xavier. It was a foul taste, in his mouth; however interesting what he was going to do might end up being. Still he had a job to do. At the moment that meant he had an interesting task to complete. He had to make someone's life a little more difficult. Coming to a door with two very fresh plates on it, Jackson stopped and rang the chime.

Inside her new office – so new she was still unpacking -- Zylla was kneeling on the floor next to a crate full of PADDs, pulling PADDs out, looking at them quickly, then putting them in one of the stacks on her desk. A small bookshelf next to her desk held few books -- two of Jackson’s, and a couple of her own, all sitting there out of the way where they wouldn't be damaged. At the chime, she pulled her head out of the crate where she was trying to get the last few PADDs, and looked at the door, brushing hair out of her eyes.

Zylla: Come in!

The door opened, admitting David Jackson. He looked toward the desk, then down at Zylla and her crate.

Jackson: Lieutenant. There were larger offices, you know.

Zylla gave a slightly impish grin, and then schooled her face into a more serious expression.

Zylla: Yessir. But I'm a small person, and a larger office means fewer things within reach of my chair. So long as it's big enough for me to keep everything in...*shrug*

Jackson smiled, picking his way to the desk across from Rian's desk.

Jackson: So, how're you liking things so far? You've met John? Things went well?

Zylla smiled and stood up, brushing dust off her uniform as she stepped around the crate to get to her own chair.

Zylla: Yessir, I did. We arranged for me to train with the Foxes, the Chief was interested in seeing if I really am as good with a phaser as my record says. It's...interesting so far. I like it here, but it's also a little odd reconciling Jaell's memories with everything.

Jackson nodded, toying with the stylus of his PADD and looking at a document displayed on the small device's screen.

Jackson: If I could, Lieutenant, I'd tell you to take a couple of weeks of minimal duty, to get yourself accustomed to things. But I'm afraid I won't be able to do so.

Zylla: What's come up?

Jackson: I'm leaving. Mr. Hanniman and Chief Mason, along with Ms. Kincaid, several of her fellow Foxtrot Squad cohorts, several other individuals. The Admiral is sending us for.... training.

Jackson handed over the PADD he'd been reviewing.

Jackson: So, if I'm gone and Mr. Hanniman is gone, well, you're in charge. *a small pause* Well, you, or Mr. Singh. But I like you better.

Zylla: *dryly* I'm touched, sir.

She took the PADD and scanned the list of personnel going, and raised her eyebrow.

Zylla: Just training. Right.

Jackson shrugged, scratching a finger under his nose.

Jackson: Certainly, Lieutenant, in as many lifetimes as you've lived you've been sent for.... training?

Her eyebrow still raised, Zylla looked at Jackson steadily.

Zylla: Oh, of course. All sorts of...training. Drink, Commander?

Jackson: *nodding graciously* Please, Lieutenant. Just a glass of ice water, 3 degrees C, that would go down quite well.

Zylla went over to the replicator, ordering the water for Jackson and tea for herself -- complete with her standard four sugars -- and carried them back to her desk, handing the water over.

Zylla: It's odd to be going on...training...just as the tournament is starting, sir.

Jackson nodded, accepting the glass and taking a sip.

Jackson: Yes Lieutenant, but it is our Commanding Officer's prerogative, when...training...takes place, and where, and who receives it. All his perspective. Could almost consider it a good thing, really. I'll stay out of trouble, being busy with...training.

Zylla: You stay out of trouble? That'll be the day.

Even as she finished speaking, her brain caught up with her mouth and she realized what she'd just said. Her eyes went wide and she clapped one hand over her mouth as her face turned scarlet.

Zylla: *mumbling through her hand* Qu'vatlh! Sorry, sir....

Jackson blinked, and his eyes narrowed momentarily, but then he smiled and shook his head.

Jackson: Lieutenant Rian, consider yourself forgiven. Under other circumstances, perhaps I would be displeased, well, no, I would be displeased. But these circumstances are not those circumstances. But, all in all, this.... training...will be quite straightforward. It will be up to you to mind this store, and make sure no hordes of rampaging Klingons burst through the doors, hmm?

Taking her hand away from her mouth, Zylla nodded, still bright red.

Zylla: I hardly think that's going to happen, sir. Anything I should know about this...training? Like if people should or shouldn't be sent somewhere...?

Jackson smiled and scratched his index finger under his nose again.

Jackson: This training will involve xeno-entomological aspects. Entomology, as in bugs. You follow?

Zylla tilted her head to one side and blinked, then smiled and took a sip of tea.

Zylla: I hear some bugs can swallow people whole. Especially the old and battered bugs. If you're going to be around them, I gather you're expecting some pest exterminators to follow?

Jackson shrugged, taking a sip of water from his glass. He let an ice cube slide between his back teeth and crushed it, swallowing the flakes before carrying on.

Jackson: Well, Lieutenant, certainly exterminators will follow in some bugs' wakes. Personally, I'm thinking that this sort of thing will be kept to a minimum, considering this is the sort of training that one does not, precisely, advertise.

Zylla nodded.

Zylla: Well, the old and canny bugs can generally avoid the notice of exterminators. And evade them if necessary. Good luck, sir.

Jackson finished his glass of ice water, swirling the remaining ice in his glass, then stood and set the glass down.

Jackson: Indeed. Thank you, Lieutenant. Oh, and by the by. If you should happen to have time to keep an eye on any local specimens of a xeno-entomological nature, it might be wise to ignore anything they might do, the next while or so. Such specimens, so I hear, are occasionally given to...misleading upheaval? So yes. Ignore them, and perhaps see to it that they are ignored?

Jackson smiled again, a cagey show of teeth, and scratched his index finger under his nose a final time.

Zylla also stood up, but still had to crane her head up to look at Jackson, and gave a quick smile.

Zylla: I'll do that, sir. With the tournament, it shouldn't be too hard to have people pay more attention to that then to bugs.

Jackson *extending a hand to Rian* Thank you, Lieutenant. This is a good shop we've got here. Take good care of it for me. This sort of thing shouldn't take more then a week. 10 days at most.

Zylla took Jackson's hand and shook it.

Zylla: I'll make sure it doesn't fall apart, sir. *smiles* Have fun...training.

OFF

Lt. Cmdr. Jackson is going to be LOA until the 21st, but passes on his best wishes to everyone for the tournament (so long as you don’t try to access decks 218, 219 and 220, that is ^_~)

~Post By~

Lt. Cmdr. David Jackson
Chief Intelligence Officer
Xavier Fleet Yards

~and~

Lt. j.g. Zylla Rian
Assistant Chief Intelligence Officer (Operations)
Xavier Fleet Yards