DS9_Fan
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Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:13:13 GMT -5
I'm going to try to put this story up but it will take a while. The following is a summary of the premise, followed by the first bit of the script. Unforunately I've found that I can only post around 2.5 pages at a time and this is over 35 pages long so it might seem like I'm spamming. But I'm not. Here's the summary:
It is the 24th century. The United Federation of Planets is struggling to survive in a post-war era. Questionable new alliances are being made, while old alliances crumble. This is not the Federation Captain Keith Mitchell of the Starship Discovery once knew. In 2195, a temporal anomaly caused by the unknown thrusts he and his crew into the year 2381. He will have to adapt to a new crew, a blend of his old officers and some unusual new ones. And to function as a normal crew, they will have to learn to adjust to two very different points of view as they try to keep the Federation, its honor, and its spirit intact.
Watch the 22nd and 24th centuries meet in…..
Federation
----------------------------------------------------------- CAST: Captain Keith Mitchell- 54, from Canada, Earth Commander Monica Tanzia- 42, from the United States of Africa, Earth Commander Warren Hawkins- 39, from Australia, Earth Lt. Commander Sonak- 198, from Vulcan Lt. Commander Tedriz Zal- 36(host) and 544(symbiont) from Trill Lt. Rebecca Martinez- 26, U.S.A, Earth --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
And here's the story... Federation
Episode 601-602 “Discovery”
Caption: THE 22nd CENTURY…
Exterior: Space. The Daedalus class USS Discovery, NCC 558 cuts through the vast expanse of space at warp 5.
VOICE OVER: Captain’s log, September 8th, 2195, Captain Keith Mitchell recording. Our 5 year science mission has ended. Course has been set for the nearest starbase, where I hope the Discovery will receive a much needed re-haul of her systems.
CUT TO:
Interior: The Discovery Bridge. All officers are wearing Starfleet uniforms which appeared in the first TOS episode “The Cage”. The bridge officers clap as Captain Mitchell ends his log, and then they drink synthetic wine from their glasses for celebration. A yeoman takes his PADD away. The Captain releases a huge breath and relaxes in his chair. His first officer , Commander Monica Tanzia approaches.
MONICA: Well, well, well…who could have thought that this rust bucket would have lasted 5 years in deep space.
MITCHELL: Hey, Moe, it may be a rust bucket, but it’s *my* rust bucket.
MONICA: Whatever you say, boss. I just wish Starfleet would have equipped it with at least photo n cannons to defend itself.
Then Monica slaps him in the arm playfully.
MITCHELL: What was that for?!
MONICA: You know I hate it when you call me Moe.
MITCHELL: I know. But I love the look on your face whenever I say it.
MONICA: What look?
Mitchell does his best impression of Monica, crossing his arms and making a face.
MONICA: I don’t do that!
MITCHELL: You sure do. Just yesterday---
Monica’s security console starts beeping. She runs over to it, almost spilling her wine in the process.
MITCHELL: What is it?
MONICA: There was something on sensors for a second, but whatever it is, it’s gone now.
MITCHELL: Anything coming from the science station?
LIEUTENANT RICH DAVIS: I’m going over the recording a second time…No, I’m not reading anything more than a sensor glitch. It’s probably nothing.
MONICA: I just had the sensors recalibrated yesterday. I’ll have engineering take a look at them again.
MITCHELL: Nothing unusual for a ship that was commissioned almost 30 years ago. I’m glad we’re getting that overhaul soon. Helm, increase speed to warp 5-2. The sooner we get to base, the better.
Fade Out: End of Scene
Exterior. The Discovery. It’s been two weeks. To the close observer, the Discovery has a little battle damage here and there, accumulated over the long 5 year voyage.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:20:54 GMT -5
CUT TO:
Interior: Discovery: Captain’s quarters. He is off duty. His door chimes.
MITCHELL: Come on in.
Monica walks in with a duty padd.
MONICA: I thought you’d like to know that we’re approaching Sector 242. We should reach Starbase K-4 within the hour. Finally.
MITCHELL: I thought your duty shift ended a few hours ago.
MONICA: Yes, but I wanted to check in with all of the departments to make sure everything is ship -shape when we arrive.
MITCHELL: Getting nervous?
MONICA: Nervous? No. Having our logs and data and ship picked apart by Starfleet big wigs happens every day, doesn’t it?
Mitchell laughs a little.
MITCHELL: If it makes you feel any better, I was nervous too when I was anticipating my first command.
Monica looks at the captain curiously.
MITCHELL: That *is* what you’re nervous about isn’t it?
MONICA: How did you know I wanted my own command?
MITCHELL: Over the past few years, you’ve been taking charge more. And you’re a lot more confident than when I first met you 9 years ago.
MONICA: That’s all? That’s what tipped you off?
MITCHELL: When you’ve been around someone for this long, you can almost read them like a book.
MONICA: Thanks a lot…I’m going to send my request to Starfleet command when we reach base. But I wasn’t ready to tell you.
MITCHELL: I see.
They pause for a moment.
MITCHELL: I’ll send in my recommendation. I don’t think it will be very hard for you to get a command. You’ve been a---
Intercom: Davis to Captain Mitchell.
MITCHELL: Yes, Lieutenant?
DAVIS: I don’t know how to tell you this sir--
Mitchell begins to get worried by those words.
MITCHELL: Then just say it.
DAVIS: Station K-4 isn’t registering on the sensors.
Commander Tanzia and Mitchell exchange confused looks.
MITCHELL: I’m on my way.
Fade Out: End of Scene End of Teaser
Caption: “Discovery”, the episode title.
Ext: Discovery, no longer at warp.
Int. Discovery’s bridge. The Captain and the Commander walk into the bridge. Mitchell sits in his chair while Monica gets to her station, taking the place of a Non-Com.
MITCHELL: Could you explain what’s going on here?
DAVIS: Station K-4 simply isn’t on the sensors.
Mitchell then shows a grim expression.
MITCHELL: Check for debris, weapons signatures, warp trails, anything.
Davis nods, and with a few punches on buttons he says:
DAVIS: There’s nothing there.
MONICA: It must be a problem with the sensor grid. The station can’t just vanish into thin air.
MITCHELL: Are we close enough for a visual?
MONICA: We should be. I’ll activate the view screen.
All that shows is empty space. The Captain stands up to get a closer look that the view screen.
MITCHELL: That’s just too d**ned peculiar. Is there a starship nearby?
MONICA: There are a few ships, but I don’t think any of them are Starfleet vessels.
MITCHELL: Then what are they?
MONICA: I don’t recognize them.
MITCHELL: Then we’ll just have to find out.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:22:44 GMT -5
Then he flips a switch on his chair.
MITCHELL: Red Alert. All hands report to your duty stations and batten down the hatches.
He flips the switch off.
MITCHELL: Helm, lay an intercept course, maximum warp.
HELM OFFICER DOYLE: Warp 5-5, aye, sir. We’ll be there in about half an hour.
MITCHELL: Hail them when we’re within range. I want to know what happened to a heavily armed, state of the art Starbase.
MONICA: I hope you know that if these people are responsible, and somehow they managed to destroy K-4, that this little ship is no match for them.
DAVIS: It looks like we’ve been detected.
DOYLE: Confirmed. And they’re traveling at warp 9...
MITCHELL: I’ve never heard of a ship that’s gone that fast before.
MONICA: If they have the technology to travel at warp 9, then they certainly have the power to destroy K-4.
MITCHELL: They probably have the power to do whatever the hell they want.
DOYLE: What should we do?
MITCHELL: Hold your course. We still don’t know who they are and what their intentions are.
MONICA: Captain, look.
She points to the view screen. It’s a small and odd shaped ship. It has 5 decks and it appears that the warp nacelles are fused with the saucer section of the ship. There isn’t a secondary hull attached.
MONICA: They’re dropping out of warp.
MITCHELL: Approach them at impulse speed.
MONICA: They’re hailing.
MITCHELL: On screen.
The view screen activates and a woman wearing a gray and black uniform with a red turtleneck appears. The uniform has similarities to the Discovery’s crew uniforms. Mitchell is surprised to see that she is human, but is still suspicious.
FEMALE: This is Captain Bennet of the Federation starship Alamo. Stand down from red alert. We’re not your enemy.
MITCHELL: I’m Captain Mitchell, and I don’t believe you. That ship isn’t any Starfleet configuration I know of, and I’ve never heard of a ship that travels at warp nine, let alone one that Earth developed. Who are you really, and what happened to station K-4?
BENNET: K-4? That station was destroyed by the Dominion over 6 years ago.
Mitchell and his officers look at each other in confusion.
MITCHELL: That station was only a year old! How can you destroy it 5 years before it was even completed?!
BENNET: Stand by for a moment, Captain.
MITCHELL: No, I want to know---
Bennet cuts the transmission. Mitchell lets out a frustrated sigh.
DAVIS: I should mention that I’ve already checked the logs, and there’s no mention of a ship called “Alamo”, or a ship of that class.
MONICA: She’s an imposter. Even her uniform is different.
MITCHELL: They didn’t even get the colors right. A command officer doesn’t wear red.
MONICA: The only problem is that she certainly looks human.
MITCHELL: But that ship…can you give us a closer look at the hull markings?
The view screen zooms in to the markings, written in Federation standard.
MITCHELL: “United Federation of Planets”…
MONICA: They’re hailing us again.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:24:03 GMT -5
Bennet is back on the screen.
MITCHELL: You story doesn’t check out well with us. There’s not a ship called “Alamo” in the logs.
BENNET: Captain, I think I can explain your confusion, but it would be best if we did it face to face.
Mitchell hesitates.
MITCHELL: All right, we’ll meet here. Do you prefer shuttle or transporter?
BENNET: No, I mean you should come to our ship. All of the evidence you need is here. You’ll just have to trust me.
MITCHELL: Can I discuss this with my staff for a moment?
BENNET: Take all the time you need. Bennet out.
MITCHELL: Well, what do you think?
DAVIS: If you’re planning on going, take me with you. If they really do have evidence, I might be able to judge it’s authenticity.
MONICA: And you’re not going without an experienced security officer.
MITCHELL: Like you?
MONICA: Like me.
MITCHELL: I guess it’s settled then. Inform the Alamo of our decision
Fade Out, End of Scene
Ext. The USS Alamo.
CUT TO:
Int. What appears to be the Captains briefing room. Mitchell and his two officers are alone with the Captain of the Alamo.
MITCHELL: So what class ship is this, if I might ask?
BENNET: Defiant class.
MITCHELL: Never heard of it.
Bennet, for a second, is unable to make eye contact, dreading what she is about to tell them.
BENNET: This might be hard for you to understand, but you’re not in the 22nd century anymore.
Mitchell narrows his eyes suspiciously.
MONICA: Then where are we?
BENNET: You are in the latter portion of the 24th century. The year is 2381.
MITCHELL: That’s impossible.
BENNET: Time travel is possible Captain, and you’ve experienced it firsthand.
MITCHELL: How? We never recorded any disturbances of any kind on our way here.
BENNET: I don’t know how you got here any more than you do. But I can prove to you that we’re in the 24th century.
She taps a few controls on the table and a small display is activated. It’s a picture of Captain Mitchell and information written with it.
BENNET: This is your bio, captain. It says--
MITCHELL: I can read. Why does it say I’m dead?
BENNET: Your ship was lost in 2195. Contact with your ship ended before you returned from your 5 year mission. It was listed as missing for a year, then it was listed as destroyed. It was generally assumed that your ship was destroyed by the Romulans, since you were so close to the Neutral Zone. There was a long investigation, but in the end, it was never proven. And this….
Bennet taps a few more controls, stands up, and heads to the display, using her finger to circle a region of a map.
BENNET: …is a map of the space you were exploring. We can assume that whatever happened to you occurred somewhere between the Ktarian system and Sector 242, which is where we are right now.
DAVIS: We surveyed the Ktarian system two months ago. That was our last planetary visit, and our last contact with other people. There wasn’t anyone who had the technology to bring us here. None that I know of.
MITCHELL: We need to go back to where we came from. Surely you people have the technology to send us back.
BENNET: I’m afraid we can’t.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:25:41 GMT -5
MITCHELL: You can’t or you won’t?
BENNET: Captain, you have to understand that Federation law has expanded over time. Time travel is possible, but if we sent you back, we would be altering history. There is a Temporal Directive that applies to this case.
MONICA: You’re saying we’re not allowed to return to where we belong? That we’re stuck here?
BENNET: You could put it that way. I’m very sorry.
MITCHELL: Fine. We’ll do it on our own. There’s got to be someone besides the Federation who can help us.
BENNET: I can’t allow you to do that.
MITCHELL: If something like this happened to someone in the 22nd century, we wouldn’t hesitate to help them out, if we had the technology to.
BENNET: With all due respect, you’re in the 24th century now, and we have found more ethical ways of doing things.
MITCHELL: Who are you to judge the 22nd century way of life?
BENNET: We can argue over this all day, but you are a Starfleet officer, and you took an oath to obey the law.
MITCHELL: Our law, not yours.
BENNET: There’s no such thing as an “our law” or “your law”. The Federation is the same entity it was 200 years ago.
There’s a long, uncomfortable pause. Then Mitchell stands up, and addresses his two colleagues.
MITCHELL: We’re leaving.
BENNET: I will give you time to consider what I’ve told you. Do you need an escort?
MITCHELL: We can find our own way out.
CUT TO:
Int. The Discovery Briefing Room. Mitchell and his 5 senior officers are gathered around a small table.
MONICA: So what are we going to do?
MITCHELL: We don’t have a choice.
MONICA: Of course we do. We can’t just give up.
MITCHELL: I’m not saying we should give up yet. I’m saying that we should return to Earth and take this to the Federation council. Maybe they will help us.
MONICA: And if they don’t?
MITCHELL: I don’t know.
Monica and the rest of the senior officers don’t say anything to that, but they are clearly frustrated.
MITCHELL: I’m going to try my best to make sure we go home. And that’s all I can give you. But for now we will do what they tell us. Do we have an understanding on this?
The rest of the officers nod.
MITCHELL: Good. Monica, can you open a channel to the Alamo?
DAVIS: I’ll get it.
Davis goes to a panel in the briefing room and flips a switch.
DAVIS: You’re on, Captain.
MITCHELL: This is Captain Mitchell. We request permission to return to Earth.
BENNET: Permission granted. I would recommend that we accompany you. We can get you home faster, if you let us tractor you there. I believe your ship is capable of withstanding warp 7, with a few modifications to your inertial dampeners and some reinforcements in your hull plating…it might take a few days.
MITCHELL: Thank you for the offer, but we’d like to go home on our own power.
BENNET: Whatever you say. Good luck, Captain. Alamo out.
MITCHELL: All right, let’s get under way.
Everyone says their “Aye, sirs” or nods, and they exit the room.
Fade out. End of Scene.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:27:57 GMT -5
Ext. Discovery approaching Earth. It has been a three week trip.
CUT TO:
Int. Bridge. The crew watch Earth through the view screen. They’re in awe of a few of the changes.
MITCHELL: What in the heck is that?
Station McKinley catches their eye.
MONICA: Looks like a space station, but I’ve never seen one that big.
DAVIS: If I recall correctly, Starfleet wanted to build a permanent space station in Earth’s orbit, but that was only a pipe dream. It must have taken decades to build that.
MONICA: They’re hailing us. They’ve been expecting us for quite some time. We’re to turn our engines off completely.
DOYLE: Engines off, sir.
MITCHELL: What are they going to do now--
Ext. McKinley station’s doors open as it locks a tractor beam on the Discovery and pulls it inside.
Int. Discovery bridge. The crew just sits in awe of the technology that the base has as it is being pulled in.
MITCHELL: There must be dozens of Starships and shuttles in there…
They watch as the Station pulls it in and docks it. Monica’s console beeps.
MONICA: They want to see you, Captain. And they recommend that the crew makes use of the base’s facilities.
MITCHELL: Then let’s not keep them waiting.
CUT TO:
Int. Admiral Edward Grayling’s office.
Mitchell enters to find an Admiral Grayling sitting in his desks. Behind him is a window to the vast docking area, where small shuttles can be seen buzzing about. In the distance is the Discovery. Akira, Excelsior, Ambassador, Galaxy, and many other classes of ships are also docked.
GRAYLING: Captain, please, have a seat.
Grayling reaches over to shake Mitchell’s hand, but is distracted by the view.
MITCHELL: That’s, uh, quite a view you have there.
GRAYLING: Being an admiral has it’s advantages…
Grayling turns around and takes a short look, then turns back around.
GRAYLING: Oh, I see. You must not be used to all of the different kinds of ships we have now.
MITCHELL: What kind of ship is that?
He indicates a ship close to the Discovery, which is over twice it’s length.
GRAYLING: That was an Excelsior class ship.
MITCHELL: Was?
GRAYLING: That ship’s almost 100 years old, the third ship of its class. It was decommissioned recently. Soon it will be torn down. Now, normally, that would be Utopia Planita’s job, but they’re overworked as is. We’ve been scrambling to make vessels ever since the war.
MITCHELL: What war?
GRAYLING: The war with the Dominion. We lost over a third of the fleet to them, along with tens of thousands of people. Six years later, we’re still struggling to recover.
MITCHELL: I’ve heard of the Dominion.
Grayling is surprised of that.
MITCHELL: The Captain of the Alamo told us they destroyed Station K-4. We were to rendezvous with that station. Speaking of which--
GRAYLING: I already know what you’re going to ask. You want us to send you back.
MITCHELL: Yes, sir.
GRAYLING: As Captain Bennet told you, we can’t. I wanted to explain a few things about the Temporal Prime Directive.
MITCHELL: You’re afraid that if you send us back, we’ll alter the future.
GRAYLING: That’s correct.
MITCHELL: From the looks of things, it looks like this future is as grim as it can get. You’ve lost countless lives and a third of your fleet from a devastating war, and you still haven’t recovered. We can’t make matters any worse.
GRAYLING: To be perfectly candid with you, this is an open and shut case. It’s not open to debate.
MITCHELL: Then what’s going to happen to us? There isn’t a function for us here in Starfleet.. Our technical and tactical expertise would be useless to you. But we can still impact lives in the 22nd. That’s part of why we all joined Starfleet.
GRAYLING: I’m not saying it’s going to be easy for you. But I still think you can make a difference in this century.
MITCHELL: How? By mining dilithium? Cleaning exhaust manifolds? Selling chronometers?
GRAYLING: You can be trained in 24th century procedures, Captain.
MITCHELL: You know what they say about old dogs. And I’m about as old as you can get. I don’t envy your position right now, but either we get sent back to where we belong, or I will tender my resignation right now.
Grayling sighs and shakes his head.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:29:11 GMT -5
GRAYLING: I have the utmost respect for you as an individual, and I certainly don’t envy your position either, but we’ve already made our standings on this issue final.
MITCHELL: Then I’m sorry to say that as of this date, I, Keith Mitchell of the Starship Discovery, being of sound mind, hereby resign my commission as Captain, understanding that I forfeit the rights and privileges therein. Have a good day.
GRAYLING: If you change your mind--
MITCHELL: Thanks, but no thanks.
Mitchell turns and leaves.
GRAYLING: He’ll be back.
Fade Out, End of Scene
Int. A lounge in Station McKinley. Mitchell and Monica Tanzia are seated across from one another. Mitchell is wearing civilian clothing, and Monica is still wearing her old uniform, with the exception of a com badge.
MONICA: They said no, didn’t they?
MITCHELL: Yes.
MONICA: Where’s your uniform?
MITCHELL: I resigned my commission.
MONICA: What?
MITCHELL: I’m going to get us home. But any attempt we make won’t be sanctioned by Starfleet. Besides, who’s going to give me command of a starship? One minute I’m finishing an important 5-year mission, the next, I find out that not only is all of our work obsolete, but that I’m obsolete as well. While I was in that briefing room with Admiral Grayling I was watching a ship that was 100 years old being disassembled. I feel just like that ship. There’s nothing more I can contribute in Starfleet, when they’ve learned all there is to know about the universe.
MONICA: I’m going with you.
MITCHELL: No. Cooperate with them for now. I’m doing this alone. I will not have you jeopardize your career.
MONICA: If you’re no longer my Captain, then you can’t order me around.
MITCHELL: I’m speaking as a friend. Don’t do this.
She thinks it over.
MONICA: I want to help you.
MITCHELL: You can do that by listening to me. This is up to me now, and no one else.
MONICA: Is there anything I can do to change your mind?
MITCHELL: No.
MONICA: Then what do you plan on doing?
MITCHELL: I don’t know. I’ll try to find a place to live back in Canada and I’ll teach myself all there is to know about temporal mechanics.
MONICA: I don’t think you’re being rational.
MITCHELL: This isn’t a rational situation. And we’re not going to find a rational solution.
MONICA: Why do you think we’ll do any better finding a place to fit in at Starfleet?
MITCHELL: You’re younger. One moment we’re just normal officers, and suddenly, in the blink of an eye, someone comes around the corner and informs us that we’re obsolete. You can change that. A 24th century crew won’t trust me to command them if they ever found out who I really am.
MONICA: I don’t agree with you.
MITCHELL:: Will you just listen to me? Don’t follow my lead.
MONICA: I’m supposed to do as you say, not as you do. Is that it?
MITCHELL: Yes.
Her combadge beeps.
MITCHELL: What’s that?
MONICA: A communicator. After I was debriefed I was given one.
She takes it off her uniform, taps it, and puts it up to her face to speak into it. A few officers, obviously from the 24th century, look at her funny. Monica lowers the communicator and covers the front of it for a second so the other end of the line can’t hear.
MONICA: Do you people have a problem?
The 24th century officers turn around immediately. Monica holds the communicator up to her face again.
MONICA: Commander Tanzia here.
Combadge: This is Commander Jk’tal. Can you report to my office for a few minutes?
MONICA: Certainly. Tanzia out.
MITCHELL: What’s that about?
MONICA: Admiral Grayling told us that we would be called to Jk’Tal’s office later for information about where we should go from here. I’m sure the first place they’ll send us is back to the Academy.
MITCHELL: Good luck, then.
MONICA: You too.
Monica squeezes Mitchell’s shoulder then leaves.
Fade Out, End of Scene
Caption: 2 months later…
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:30:34 GMT -5
Ext. A small cabin in a region called Canada on Earth. It is daytime, late afternoon. There is a fierce blizzard going outside. We notice that someone has beamed in in front of the cabin’s door.
CUT TO:
Mitchell’s work desk. Mitchell has fallen asleep on top of at least a dozen PADDs. He appears to have lost weight. He has bags under his eyes, and he doesn’t look like he’s slept much over the past few months. Someone knocks at his cabin door, but he’s in a deep sleep. The door opens , and Monica and Davis walk in. Monica taps his shoulder and he slowly wakes up.
MONICA: Wake up, sleepy-head.
MITCHELL: How long have you been here?
DAVIS: We just got here.
Davis looks at one of the PADDs Mitchell has been studying and picks it up.
DAVIS: This is interesting. Temporal paradoxes?
MITCHELL: Yes, these 24th century people sure must get around. They know of about 100 different time paradoxes.
DAVIS: We’ve been over temporal mechanics a little at the academy, but they didn’t go in depth as much as you have.
MONICA: I’ve taken a brief leave of absence, so I don’t know anything about it. Learn anything interesting?
MITCHELL: It’s all very interesting…but I assume you’re asking if I’ve found a way home.
MONICA: Yes.
MITCHELL: Well there seem to be a lot of methods for time travel. The most popular is the slingshot method, where you take a ship around a star at high speeds. It would take a while to explain the whole process but that’s the gist of it. I’ve also heard that a race called the Bajorans own objects called orbs. They say that these orbs were sent to them by their gods. Each orb has a different function, but one is called the Orb of Time. They say they’ve used it to travel to different points in time.
MONICA: That’s interesting. Anything else?
MITCHELL: The Borg, who are apparently an enemy to the Federation, manipulated a deflector dish on their ship to travel back in time. There’s a problem to all of these methods, though. You need a starship, and we don’t have one. Also, in one case you’ll have to steal a religious icon that holds a great deal of importance to an entire race. I’m not going to commit theft, either. So I’m not making a lot of progress so far. But there’s a lot that’s been written on the subject.
MONICA: So how are you doing? You look terrible.
MITCHELL: I’m fine. I haven’t had a lot of rest lately.
MONICA: You don’t look like you’ve eaten either.
MITCHELL: I guess I can take a break, can’t I? Give me a moment, and I’ll take you to a great restaurant in New Orleans I went to once. Have a seat over there.
Monica and Davis sit down while Mitchell goes into the other room. After a short moment of silence…
MONICA: I’m worried about him.
DAVIS: So am I. Maybe this was the wrong time.
MONICA: You’ll have to tell him sooner or later. When do you plan on breaking the news to him?
DAVIS: Maybe we should wait until after we’ve eaten. I don’t want to ruin it for him.
MONICA: That’s probably a good idea. But try not to feel so guilty.
DAVIS: It’s a little hard not to.
MONICA: I’m sure he’ll respect your decision.
MITCHELL: What decision?
Monica and Davis are a little shocked, but they try not to look that way.
MONICA: That was fast.
MITCHELL: Oh, yes. It’s a little easier getting into civilian clothes than a uniform. An advantage of staying on Earth, I guess.
TANZIA: You’re becoming a land-lubber, eh? Don’t get too used to it.
MITCHELL: I’ll try.
DAVIS: We should get going.
MONICA: Yes. Besides, it’s freezing in here. You’ve never had it this cold in your quarters before.
MITCHELL: I guess I’m getting used to the cold.
MONICA: Then let’s get out of here.
Fade out, End of Scene.
Ext. Mitchell’s cabin (evening). It has been about 4 hours since Mitchell and his two former crewmates went to dinner. The storm has passed and the sky is clear enough to see an aurora.
Int. Mitchell’s cabin. They all walk back in.
MITCHELL: Well, that was the best time I’ve had in weeks. I’m glad you came.
DAVIS: Sir, there’s something I need to tell you.
MITCHELL: Sure, but I’ve got to sit down.
Mitchell sits down in his living room. The others follow his lead. He activates a switch which turns the fireplace on.
MITCHELL: Spit it out.
DAVIS: I’m afraid I won’t be able to go with you when you return to the 22nd century. I wish to remain at the Academy and learn all there is to know about this century. There have been so many breakthroughs in science…As a science officer, it’s almost a dream come true to have answers to so many of the questions I’d been asking. And I really don’t have a family to return to in 22nd century. Not like the rest of the crew.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:33:00 GMT -5
MITCHELL: You’ve considered this thoroughly?
DAVIS: Yes.
MITCHELL: Then I wish you the best of luck.
DAVIS: You aren’t disappointed?
MITCHELL: Why would I be? I resigned from the fleet on my own will, and I’ve said from Step one that everyone should continue on with their normal lives, or at least try to make their lives more normal. You’ve succeeded in that, and I wish you the best of luck.
Davis relaxes.
DAVIS: Thank you, sir.
MITCHELL: So why didn‘t you tell me earlier?
DAVIS: I didn’t want to spoil the evening.
MITCHELL: I’m happy for you…
DAVIS: Thank you.
MITCHELL: It’s strange.
MONICA: What?
MITCHELL: Everyone is adjusting but me. I should be setting an example for my crew, not feeling sorry for myself in this cabin.
MONICA: People handle crises in different ways. Do you remember those Kobyashi Maru tests? Do you remember how you handled that?
MITCHELL: Yes. I knew that no matter what, the end consequence would be that our ship would be destroyed.
DAVIS: What did you do?
MITCHELL: I sent out a distress signal, then set a collision course with the lead Klingon ship. Destroyed ourselves, but taking them down with us, and leaving the other two ships without a flag officer.
MONICA: That’s not a solution most people will think of. You thought that if there was no way to win a situation, then the best thing you can do is improve the situation.
MITCHELL: So are you saying that this is a no-win situation?
MONICA: Yes. And that you should do what you did on that test. We’re not going to win this, but at least we can go out with a bang.
MITCHELL: How do you propose we do that?
MONICA: I don’t know. But it’s not healthy for you to remain here. If you’re able to learn all of this nonsense about temporal mechanics, then you sure as hell can learn how to be a good Captain again. You know that 100 year old ship you saw, the one being disassembled? Sometimes an old ship doesn’t need to be decommissioned. Sometimes all it needs is a good refit. Go back to Starfleet, Keith. Let go of the past.
There is a pause.
MITCHELL: Let me think about it.
MONICA: No, there’s nothing to think about. Get your butt into Grayling’s office and tell him you want your job back!
MITCHELL: Fine. I’ll do it in the morning. I’m going to bed.
MONICA: No, you’ll do it now. Don’t make me drag you there.
MITCHELL: This is revenge for all of those times I dragged *you* out of bed back when we were on the Champion, isn’t it?
MONICA: Partially. That, and I outrank you for the first time. Now go!
MITCHELL: Yes, ma’am…
Fade Out, end of scene.
Ext. McKinley Station. Mitchell walks to Grayling’s office, and he finds him at his desk.
GRAYLING: Mr. Mitchell, come on in. You said you had something to tell me that was urgent? How are you doing?
MITCHELL: As well as can be expected. Thank you for asking.
GRAYLING: But you’re not here for small talk are you?
MITCHELL: No, sir, I’m not. I’m a little uncomfortable to say this…
GRAYLING: Then don’t. You want your job back?
MITCHELL: In a nutshell.
GRAYLING: You realize that when you resigned, you abandoned your responsibilities as a Captain, don’t you?
MITCHELL: Yes, and I regret it. You have my apologies.
GRAYLING: Good. When you said you resigned, I didn’t believe that I would be hearing the last from you. So I wrote it down as an extended leave of absence. But you did surprise me that you came to your senses much sooner than I had anticipated. I thought it would take at least a year. And coming here so soon, and having the guts to say you were wrong is one of the few things keeping me from knocking you down in rank to Ensign. The other reason for my leniency is because of your accomplishments. If you had gotten to your Earth, I bet they would have given you a commendation.
MITCHELL: Thank you, sir.
Grayling just grunts in response.
GRAYLING: While you were gone, I kept an eye open for certain jobs that you may be interested in. There isn’t a lot to choose from. You came here under extremely unusual and not to mention mysterious circumstances. Tell me, your ship was close to the Romulan Neutral Zone during your 5 year mission, am I correct?
MITCHELL: Yes.
GRAYLING: How much contact did you have with the Romulans?
MITCHELL: We were in a few skirmishes with them.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:35:13 GMT -5
GRAYLING: There have been many changes over the past 200 years, many of which have occurred just over the last 6 years since the war ended. While the war was a terrible ordeal, it brought the Romulans and the Federation closer together. Three years ago the Romulans and the Federation signed the Second Khitomer Accords.
MITCHELL: Second? I’ve never even heard of a first.
GRAYLING The first involved the Klingons---
At this Mitchell raises an eyebrow.
GRAYLING: --- but that’s a different story. I’m sure you will find out more about that later. But these Accords have changed things. A few decades ago, the Romulans attacked Khitomer. It was believed that if the Second Accords were signed there, it would begin the healing process between the Klingons, the Federation and the Romulans. Khitomer, many years ago, was a symbol for peace. We wanted it to be that way again.
MITCHELL: Something tells me that things didn’t work out the way you planned.
GRAYLING: To a point it did. Relations between the Romulans and the Federation haven’t been better. But it hurt our relations with the Klingons. They weren’t as enthusiastic about peace with the Romulans as we were. They still don’t trust them. Things have gotten to the point where it’s possible that the Klingon Neutral Zone could be re-established.
MITCHELL: How can I help you, then?
GRAYLING: The Klingons may have been right. Starfleet received a transmission that the Romulans may be plotting against us with another empire.
MITCHELL: Who sent the transmission?
GRAYLING: We were unable to track it. So the credibility of this transmission isn’t that great.
MITCHELL: What is this other empire?
GRAYLING: We don’t know that either. It could even be someone we’re familiar with.
MITCHELL: Someone could just be manipulating Starfleet into believing a lie. It would be an easy way to destabilize relations with the Romulans.
GRAYLING: Which is why this needs to be investigated further. It’s a simple job, but it’s important. You are to find out if the reports are true. The person or persons behind this transmission said that there have been meetings on a planet just outside Romulan territory.
MITCHELL: Where is the planet?
GRAYLING: About two week’s travel at warp Seven.
MITCHELL: Don’t you think there’s another starship closer that could do the job?
GRAYLING: The letter said that the next meeting is in about 3 and a half weeks. We can send any ship to do this assignment, but you have experience with the Klingons and Romulans, and what you don’t know, you can learn in the time it takes to get there. It’s a good chance to prove yourself.
MITCHELL: Ok….but the Discovery doesn’t have the capability to go to warp seven.
GRAYLING: We weren’t going to send you with the Discovery. Today’s cruising speeds are faster than your ship’s maximum warp speeds. You will be taking a small Oberth class vessel. We don’t want you traveling in a ship that’s too outdated. It’s not fast enough, and it’s not equipped with modern weaponry.
MITCHELL: I’ll function better with my own ship. I know what she’s capable of, and how far I can push her. If you modify her engines, then I’m sure it will be sufficient to get the job done. Can you do that?
GRAYLING: Yes, but you should realize you would be adding risk to this mission.
MITCHELL: The way I see things, I’d be adding risk if I didn’t take the my own ship.
GRAYLING: I’ll see what our engineers can do.
MITCHELL: If I’m not overstepping my boundaries--
GRAYLING: Oh, I’m afraid it’s too late for that.
MITCHELL:--can I have my crew back too?
GRAYLING: We’re in the process of breaking your crew up. We’ve already reassigned them to various missions on various starships. It’s not safe to put a crew of people who haven’t had as much training as the average Starfleet officer on a ship by themselves. We’d be asking for trouble. You’re going to need officers from this century to guide you.
MITCHELL: I have an officer who’s been with me even before my 5 year mission, and I’d like her to come with me. She’s been invaluable.
GRAYLING: Then I’ll make a few exceptions. You’ll probably see about a third of your crew again.
MITCHELL: Thank you. I know you’ve been going out of your way ever since I came into your office two months ago.
GRAYLING: I’m aware of that. And you’re welcome. I think you should start preparing yourself for this trip. Learn all you can about the last 180 years, because you’ll need that information.
MITCHELL: Aye, sir.
GRAYLING: Dismissed.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:37:12 GMT -5
CUT TO:
Ext: The USS Discovery.
Int: The Bridge. Captain Mitchell walks on it for the first time in over two months. He tries out the Captain’s chair. Nodding in satisfaction, he gets up to leave. Monica Tanzia comes out of a turbo lift.
MONICA: Thank you for recommending me for this mission.
MITCHELL: You were the one who got me back here in the first place. I wasn’t sure if you would accept.
MONICA: I think all of my hopes for command have been put aside. I don’t think I’d ever adjust to a ship without you, anyway. So you’re stuck with me.
MITCHELL: Great.
Just then, someone walks onto the bridge, a male with the rank of Commander. He has an Australian accent. His name is Warren Hawkins.
HAWKINS: Captain. I was looking for you.
Hawkins shakes the Captain’s hand.
HAWKINS: I’m Warren Hawkins.
MITCHELL: Captain Keith Mitchell. You‘re my science officer, right?
HAWKINS: No. I’m going to be your first officer on this journey.
Mitchell glances incredulously at Monica, and she just shrugs.
MITCHELL: You must be mistaken. That position has already been filled.
TANZIA: By me.
Hawkins takes out a PADD and hands it to Mitchell.
HAWKINS: The orders are here, if you need proof. Signed by Admiral Grayling.
MITCHELL: Why wasn’t I informed?
HAWKINS: I thought you *were* informed.
MITCHELL: I’ll have to get this straightened out. Monica, can you open a channel to Admiral Grayling?
MONICA: Yes sir. Channel open.
MITCHELL: Admiral?
Grayling gives an exasperated expression.
GRAYLING: Yes.
MITCHELL: Why wasn’t I informed that you had asked someone to take my first officer’s place? I was told that I would assign my own personnel after I received the crew roster.
GRAYLING: Captain, I can’t have the two highest ranking people on your ship being from your century. It makes sense that there needs to be someone at your side to guide you. I need to know that if something you’re planning on doing is against 24th century policy, that someone will be able to have the rank to overrule your decision.
MITCHELL: Monica’s perfectly capable of doing that. We’re both well versed in the new procedures.
GRAYLING: But she doesn’t have enough 24th century experience.
MITCHELL: With all due respect, neither do I.
GRAYLING: Which is why you’ll have Mr Hawkins at your side. Grayling out.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:38:45 GMT -5
The viewscreen turns off and there’s an awkward silence.
MITCHELL: Well, this is obviously not a matter open to discussion. I’m sorry if I’ve made this difficult for you, Mr. Hawkins, but this was completely unexpected.
HAWKINS: It’s perfectly understandable. Besides, I’m quite sure that I’ll be making this much more difficult for you. Part of my duty is to help you get used to this environment.
MITCHELL: Just so we’re on the understanding that I’m the Captain. I thought you were a good choice for a science officer. In my time, the first officer had a secondary task that they fulfilled. On my ship I’ll expect nothing less. That is the second task you’re responsible of.
HAWKINS: If you say so.
Mitchell glares at him, and Hawkins realizes he took the wrong tone with him.
HAWKINS: I’m sorry, I didn’t mean for it to come out that way.
MONICA: Captain, what do you want me to do?
MITCHELL: You’ll serve as the Security and Tactical officer. You did a fine job at that before.
MONICA: What about my rank?
MITCHELL: You’re still a Commander. But if something happens to me, Mr. Hawkins is in charge.
MONICA: Yes, sir.
MITCHELL: I’m going down to sickbay to meet our new Medical Chief.
Monica walks up to him and whispers:
MONICA: Be careful.
MITCHELL: What is that supposed to mean?
MONICA: You’ll find out when you get there.
She grins mischievously at Mitchell as he leaves, confused.
CUT TO:
Sickbay. A young woman named Rebecca Martinez walks down the corridor, humming, carrying about 5 bags with her. Then, when she makes a left turn into sickbay, the sight makes her stop humming. She looks at the outdated equipment and sighs. She opens her bags and begins unpacking her state of the art medical equipment, and places the dated equipment into a different bag. Just as she is holding a piece of medical equipment, Captain Mitchell enters.
MITCHELL: I’d hate to know what that thing’s used for.
Martinez turns around quickly, startled at the fact that she didn’t know he was there. She was about to make a startled cry when she recognized the speaker.
MITCHELL: I’m sorry, did I scare you?
MARTINEZ: No, no, I’m just a little surprised. I always get a little spooked when people walk from behind me.
MITCHELL: I’m---
MARTINEZ: Captain Mitchell. I’m Rebecca Martinez.
Indicating the piece of equipment Mitchell was speaking about, she continues, speaking at a fast pace, which Mitchell can barely follow.
MARTINEZ: This is just a dermal regenerator. Nothing to be afraid of. It helps damaged skin to heal, and it also is used to make cosmetic changes. For example, if you want to look like a Klingon, I just make a few adjustments.
MITCHELL: No thanks. So you must be the new--
MARTINEZ: Chief Medical Officer, yes. I was just unloading some of my equipment I had beamed over to the transport room. That was my last load. I would have had it beamed directly to sickbay, but I figured I could use the exercise. Some of this equipment you have here is so primitive. These things belong in a museum. As a matter of fact, I was bringing your out-dated equipment to the Daystrom Institute. It’s not often that they see these things in perfect condition.
MITCHELL: I’ll try not to take offence to that. So what do---
MARTINEZ: I’m really sorry, no offence intended. I don’t mean to be that way. It’s just that sometimes I say stupid things without realizing it until after I’ve said it.
MITCHELL: Perhaps if you talked a little slower, you might not have as much of a problem. Sometimes--
MARTINEZ: Thank you, that’s good advice.
MITCHELL: And *sometimes* it helps if you let people finish their sentences.
MARTINEZ: All right. I’ll keep that in mind.
MITCHELL: Good. I’ll be on my way, now.
MARTINEZ: Ok, have a nice day.
Mitchell leaves sickbay and sees Monica standing by the entrance chuckling.
MITCHELL: How long have you been here?
MONICA: Long enough.
They start walking down the corridor.
MITCHELL: Her heart is in the right place.
MONICA: I think she’s rude. She screamed in my face when I tapped her on the shoulder. How could someone so jumpy be a doctor in the first place?
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:41:08 GMT -5
MITCHELL: I read her file, and she had an excellent record up until 2375. She even had a commendation for her work on a colony called Archer IV. Then after that…I guess that her career hasn’t been very noteworthy since then. There weren’t complaints about her work, but she’s been transferred to about two colonies and four starships since that year.
MONICA: She probably annoyed the hell out of them, too.
MITCHELL: Well, let’s give her a chance before we try shipping her off to the next ship, shall we?
MONICA: I suppose that’s a good idea.
They enter a turbo lift.
MITCHELL: Engineering.
Mitchell activates the turbolift and it starts moving.
MITCHELL: Where are you headed?
MONICA: I’ve called all security personnel over to the training room for their daily drills.
MITCHELL: Maybe you should postpone the drills until we’re underway. We haven’t gotten a chance to meet the crew yet.
MONICA: I want them all prepared for this mission. Security hazards don’t take the day off.
The turbolift arrives at Engineering and the doors open.
MITCHELL: Well, go easy on them. I don’t want you to work them to death.
MONICA: Oh, you have nothing to worry about. I’ll have a lean, mean, security team by the time we’re off.
Mitchell exits, Monica stays on the turbo lift. As the doors shut, Monica throws off one of her patented, mischievous grins.
MITCHELL: That’s what I’m afraid of.
Mitchell heads into the Engineering room. It’s more advanced than the Enterprise NX-01’s drive, but not as advanced as the Enterprise 1701. But the warp core is still in a horizontal position. Most of the core is covered up behind panels, in the wall, whereas on the NX-01’s drive was completely exposed running down the middle of the room. You can still see the antimatter swirling in a few windows that run down the wall. The Engineering team has a few wall panels ripped open as they make adjustments to the drive. Mitchell approaches the only Lieutenant Commander in the room, a 198 year old Vulcan. He maintains his emotions as work goes along, but he is obviously pleased with the progress…much more pleased than the average Vulcan would show.
SONAK: Greetings, Captain. Would you like a status report?
MITCHELL: That would be great, Sonak.
SONAK: We should be ready to go in about a week. The warp refit is 50% complete and there are teams outside working on reinforcing the hull and making some adjustments to the deflector dish. However, when we’re finished, the ship will still be in poor shape.
MITCHELL: How about the weapons and defense systems?
SONAK: Modern phasers, and the newest multi-spectral shielding are compatible with Discovery. However, it won’t be possible in the time allotted to install quantum torpedoes. An entire deck of this ship would be required to have a refit to install them. It may have been easier if you were equipped with photon torpedoes.
MITCHELL: Photon torpedoes were experimental at the time this ship was built, and only a handful of ships in the fleet tested them.
SONAK: Yes, that is what your helmsman told me.
MITCHELL: Oh, a history buff?
SONAK: No. He helped build your ship.
Mitchell raises an eyebrow.
MITCHELL: You must be mistaken…this ship was built over 200 years ago. It was built the year the Federation was founded.
SONAK: No, I am not mistaken.
MITCHELL: Hmmm. Well, you’re doing a great job. I’m going to my ready room. Apparently I haven’t been studying the roster well enough. I’ve been so wrapped up in learning about the 24th century that I forgot to finish it. If anything happens, tell me.
SONAK: Of course.
Mitchell leaves, and Sonak tends to the warp core. For a split second, he smiled, but it only took another split second to contain it.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:42:29 GMT -5
CUT TO:
A large room, the size of a basketball court, which serves as the Security Drill Room. About 45 people are assembled in it. Most are new to the Discovery, but there are about 10 officers who were with Captain Mitchell’s crew when it got stranded. They are lined up in 8 rows, 5 people in each row. Monica Tanzia stands in front of them. All of them, including Tanzia herself, are doing jumping jacks.
MONICA: All right, we can stop.
The 24th century officers exhale a sigh of relief, but the 22nd century officers don’t.
MONICA We’re not through yet, people. We’re now going to do 50 laps around this room.
The 24th century officers groan a little.
MONICA: Is there a problem, Mister Adama?
An Ensign new to the ship raises his hand. The “old” officers get ready to run, while the rest have their eyes on the ensign.
ENSIGN ADAMA: Well, we’ve already done 150 sit-ups, 100 push ups, and 20 minutes of jumping jacks.
MONICA: All right. You can have another break. Everyone get something to drink. But no longer. We still have target practice after your laps.
ADAMA: Have we done something wrong?
MONICA: Why do you ask that?
ADAMA: With your permission to speak freely…
Monica nods.
ADAMA: We haven’t had training like this since the academy. I think we all know what we’re doing.
MONICA: You mean you don’t have drills in the 24th century?
ADAMA: An hour a week, we work on training.
MONICA: On this ship, we have 3 hour drills every other day. You’ll get used to it. And if I can do it, I’m sure you can.
Tanzia calls out to everyone else:
MONICA: The break’s over. Start running.
She watches as everyone gets in line and starts their laps around the Drill Room. Then she points at a female Ensign and shouts:
MONICA: Hey! Ensign Phelps! Stop cutting corners!
Monica shakes her head, and starts running with them.
CUT TO:
Captain’s quarters. It’s about 6 hours later, in the evening. He’s eating dinner with the helmsman, Tedriz Zal, Commander Hawkins, and Lt. Martinez. Monica rings, then enters when she gets the word.
MONICA: Hi, you called, sir?
MITCHELL: Yes, sir down. We were just having dinner from the new replicator that Sonak installed.
MONICA: Where is Sonak?
MITCHELL: He’s busy with the refit. He seems to be really enjoying himself.
MONICA: Odd. I thought Sonak was from Vulcan.
MITCHELL: Yes, he’s a full-blooded Vulcan. Nevertheless, that’s the impression I got from him when I asked him to come here.
MARTINEZ: Maybe I’ll call him down to sickbay.
MITCHELL: I don’t think he’s going to make himself available for a while. Just sit back and relax.
Monica sits down and tastes the food.
MONICA: You said this came from a replicator? Tastes real.
Hawkins enters the conversation
HAWKINS: Yes, we’ve made a few advancements over the last two centuries.
MONICA(dryly): Yes, I’ve noticed.
TEDRIZ ZAL: Commander Tanzia, I don’t believe I’ve met you before. I’m Tedriz Zal. You can call me Tedriz.
MONICA: You can all call me Monica.
MITCHELL: She loves it when you call her “Moe”.
Monica kicks Mitchell from under the table, but Mitchell just smiles.
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DS9_Fan
NCC 1701
Ever the optimist...
Posts: 73
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Post by DS9_Fan on Apr 9, 2002 16:43:34 GMT -5
TEDRIZ: I’ll try to remember that.
MITCHELL: You’ll be interested to know that Tedriz helped to build this ship.
MONICA: How is that possible? You look like you’re in your thirties.
TEDRIZ: 36 to be exact. And I’m 544.
MARTINEZ(speaking quickly): Tedriz is a Trill. His people live lifespan is as long as a humans, but they co-exist with small sentient beings who can live for centuries. Some Trill become joined with them.
TEDRIZ: Zal is in my abdomen.
Monica accidentally chokes on her food, then tries to regain composure. Still, she looks like she is about to lose the food that she just swallowed.
TEDRIZ: Don’t worry. It’s not a parasitic relationship. It’s symbiotic.
MONICA: I’ve never heard of a Trill before, yet you said that your…
TEDRIZ: …Symbiont.
MONICA: …Symbiont…helped build this ship?
TEDRIZ: Trill aren’t well known in the Federation, even today. There were very few Trill who were associated with the Federation during your time. Over the years that number has grown. There are about 80 Trill officers in Starfleet today. I was picked for this job because I know this ship well.
MONICA: Oh. So how long have you been joined?
TEDRIZ: Since Tedriz became 18.
MONICA: I see. That’s interesting.
MARTINEZ: If you’re interested in that, I can tell you about a few other interesting civilizations we’ve met since your time.
Monica isn’t interested in talking to Martinez, but Mitchell gives her a look that says “Do it”.
MONICA: I’d be happy to hear it.
MARTINEZ: That’s great!
Martinez begins talking about all the races she’s met or heard of over the years for about 20 minutes. Everyone listens. Mitchell, Tedriz, and Monica are actually enjoying her lecture. Hawkins has a “been there, done that” attitude, quite normal for modern Starfleet officers, but listens politely.
MARTINEZ: ….so the Borg have sort of a symbiotic relationship with technology as well. In the Dominion, thousands of shape shifters exist as one when they’re in liquid form, but---
She stops.
MITCHELL: Well don’t stop now. Please continue.
MARTINEZ: If it’s all right with you, I need my rest.
Hawkins raises an eyebrow.
HAWKINS: It’s only 1900 hours.
MARTINEZ: Yes, but I haven’t slept in a while.
MITCHELL: Then it’s probably a good idea that you do. Have a good evening. Maybe we can resume our conversation tomorrow.
MARTINEZ: …Maybe. Bye, everyone.
TEDRIZ: Actually, I think I’ll be leaving to. I was going to see if I could help Sonak.
MONICA: I have a little studying to do, so I guess I’m out as well.
MITCHELL: All right. Goodnight, everybody.
Everyone says their goodbyes. Monica is the last to file out of the room.
MITCHELL: Monica…Tedriz, can you stay here?
Monica and Tedriz stop, and the doors to the quarters close. They re-enter the room.
MONICA/TEDRIZ: Yes?
MITCHELL: There’s something I need to talk to you about. And Tedriz, I could use your opinion on this.
MONICA: This isn’t about me kicking you under the table is it, because you deserved--
MITCHELL: Actually it has nothing to do with that. You see, I got a report from one of your men, Ensign Adama.
MONICA: What kind of a report?
MITCHELL: He complained about your Drilling routine. He said you were working them too hard.
TEDRIZ: I don’t see why this concerns me…
MITCHELL: You’ll see.
MONICA: That’s strange. My routine hasn’t changed at all.
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