Host Trish says:
USS Cherokee 10610.15 Conscious Part 9, Interlude

Starring 
Steve Weller as CO Tio Ayidee
Dawn Freeman as OPS Kyleigh Nash
Mark Haslam as CTO Mark Hazzard
Zach Farland as CNS_Wells and FNS Reporter Kandi_Chase

Absent
Trish Yarborough as SM and Admiral Alexander
Brandon Mitcham as XO Trent D. Worthington III 

Guest Staring
Kurt G as aSO_Ens_Duke

Setting
   The events of this session take place between the missions of 10610.01 and 10610.08.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Captain's Log, Stardate 10610.15, Captain Ayidee recording.  As the Cherokee makes the journey from the end of the Corridor to our place on the border, things are relatively quiet, the proverbial calm before the storm.  During the downtime, we're taking the time to introduce ourselves to our FNN reporter, Kandi Chase.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
<<<<<<<<<<<<<Begin Session>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Host OPS_Nash says:
::sitting in the Observation Lounge, looking sad::

Host CNS_Wells says:
::In Observation Lounge waiting for the gathering to meet the press::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: walks into the Observation Lounge with a sour look on his face. :: Self: I still have two drills to conduct and that stupid port Phaser array still isn't up to snuff, but here I am playing twenty dang questions.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
::In the Observation Lounge, ready to begin our official introduction to the Federation News Network Reporter.:: All: Greetings everyone.  Is everyone ready to begin?

Host OPS_Nash says:
::nods::

Host CNS_Wells says:
::Looks over to Mrs. Nash and gives her a reassuring smile::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: looks at the officers already assembled. :: CNS/OPS/CO: As ready as I can be.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: takes a seat and tries to put on a neutral face. ::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
::Arrives in Observation Lounge, without her camera crew, she takes the empty seat next to the Counselor::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
All: I would like to thank you for your time.  Starfleet wants to make sure that the citizens can see the sentient face of the fleet, so let's give them a good luck at who we are.

Host CNS_Wells says:
::Looks at the reporter sit next to him and rolls his eyes thinking, there were plenty of other empty seats::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
::Looks at the people sitting around her trying to look as friendly as possible::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: Would you like to begin?

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: crosses his arms and looks up at the ceiling. ::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: Thank you, Captain.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
::Takes a seat.::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: and thank you all for taking the time to meet with me. I wanted this to be informal. I think it is important for me to establish a good working relationship with the Cherokee crew.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: nods as he takes a moment to observe the reactions of his fellow crewmembers.::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: I fear I may have gotten off to a rocky start. Truth is, I'm scared to death. I've never been in a war before.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: We'll do all we can to make your time here as smooth as possible.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: Thank you, Captain. I've been doing a lot of thinking as to how I should do my job here. It was not my original way of thinking.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: You'd be surprised with the amount of trouble and danger this ship has faced.  Honestly, you're in good hands.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: I don't want to be a pest or your enemy. I spoke briefly with Commander Nash earlier.  ::Nods and smiles at the OPS::

Host OPS_Nash says:
::nods at the reporter::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: Yes, you look like you have very capable hands, Commander.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: I think I could be a real asset to this ship. I want to show my viewers the personal side of war.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: is about to respond when he replays Chase's words.:: Chase: Umm, yeah.  Thanks...I think.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: And I'll need all of your help.

Host OPS_Nash says:
::notices the stammering CTO, she couldn't help it as she let out a slight chuckle::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: I can be a way for you and your families to get some comfort in these trying times, too.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: looks over at the OPS and puts a hand over his face. :: OPS: Not. One. Word.

Host OPS_Nash says:
::looks innocent::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: Imagine the joy when your loved ones see you doing some interview with me on their view screens in their own homes.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: They will know you are okay.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: sighs and tries to recover his cool. :: Chase: To be honest, my mother does enough worrying over me as it is.  Seeing me on the front lines will more than likely have her trying to get back on board.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
ALL: I'd like you all to just talk. With me and each other here. Talk about how this war is affecting you, your families too.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: As your mother I think she would just like to see your face, is all I'm saying.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: smirks :: Chase: You've never met my mother.  Look up Stubborn in the definition database...her picture is there.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: No, I haven't but, I bet she is a very patient, although tired, woman.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: In regards to my opinion about the war?  Honestly I really don't think my opinion has any relevance.  My job remains the same, ensuring that each and everyone of my crewmates is in the same condition they were in when they came aboard, alive.

Host OPS_Nash says:
ALL:  As you know, I just sent my children away for their safety.  That is why I was absent for a little while Captain, I was making the necessary arrangements.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: That's a nice way to look at your role here, I'm sure most of the crew have people they've left behind for the war.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: looks over at Kyleigh and puts his hand over hers, squeezing it lightly to give her comfort. ::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: Yes, Sir, like the Nash children.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: One of the things that I have in my favor is that this crew is like family to me.  They've been here for me during some pretty rough times in my life.  So it makes it that much more important to me to protect them from any harm that may come their way.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: Besides your Mom, is there any other family? No wife?

Host OPS_Nash says:
::wonders how the CTO answer that one as she knows the situation::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: frowns and looks down. :: Chase: Kinda a touchy subject Miss Chase, and one I don't want to get into.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: So, I take it that there is or, at least was, a Mrs. Commander Hazzard?

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: No...I haven't been married.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
::is glad that his hand is hidden by the table as he's gripping the arm of the chair rather tightly.::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: That...isn't a line of questioning to pursue, if you don't mind.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: I see ::Notices he is getting red under the collar and backs off::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CO: Its okay, sir.  She doesn't know.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: I'm sorry, Captain. I didn't know it was a sensitive matter. What about you Sir? Any family?

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: takes a deep breath and leans back in his chair.  ::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: None that I'm aware of.  My mother was killed when I was very young, and I don't know who my father is.  My family is of the fleet, and a fine family it is.

Host CNS_Wells says:
::Looks over at CTO, due to his odd answer. Feels he should be able to talk about them. Unresolved issues? Makes a note on his schedule PADD::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: I'm sorry to hear about your mother but, I am impressed with her son.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: So are we.  Although honestly he takes way too many chances.  As a member of his family. I've been tempted to ground him.  But he never listens to me. :: sighs:: Kids...what can you do with them?  :: smirks ::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: No need to apologize, it happened three decades ago, and I've come to deal with it.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: Love them? :: Smiles inquisitively at the CTO.  Turns her attention to the handsome counselor beside her::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: I'll stick to being the protective younger brother in that case.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CNS: What about you, Commander? Family? A wife, perhaps ::Hoping the answer is "no"::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
CTO: Taking chances is a part of the job.  The hard part is knowing when to fall back and play it safe.

Host CNS_Wells says:
KANDI: Mother, ex-wife, her son and a few friends, yes, I have people I care about.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CNS: Ex wife? How interesting.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
OPS: So, Commander, where were your children sent?

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: leans over and whispers into the CNS's ear :: CNS: I think the reporter is kinda sweet on you, buddy.

Host OPS_Nash says:
::feels that now should be a good time that Kyleigh lets her captain know something important::    ALL:  They were sent to live with my parents, and for their safety that location will not be revealed.  Oh by the way, Captain, I feel that I really should let you know that Kevin and I are expecting another child.

Host CNS_Wells says:
::Whispers back:: CTO: Just my luck, huh?

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: still whispering :: CNS: Dude, she's hot...seriously.  Go for it!

Host CO_Ayidee says:
::Looks at OPS.::  OPS: You're expecting another child?  Congratulations, Commander.

Host CNS_Wells says:
::Looks at Kyleigh and smiles at her proud news.::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
OPS: Kyleigh if you have any more children I am going to have to draft one of them.

Host OPS_Nash says:
CO:  Yes, Captain.  I have known since the "parasite invasion."

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: laughs loudly at the mention of the parasites. ::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
OPS: A baby? This must give you more to be concerned about.

Host OPS_Nash says:
CTO:  What ever you say Uncle Treeboy.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: groans loudly at the mention of the hated nickname. :: OPS: Oh you HAD to go there ...didn't you?

Host OPS_Nash says:
Kandi:  You have no idea.  My plate is full, nay, it's overflowing, right now.

Host OPS_Nash says:
::smiles at CTO::

Host CNS_Wells says:
ALL: Kevin and Kyleigh's news is very good news for all of us. A constant reminder of hope, and rebirth. Not even born and all ready the most important member of the crew, in my book.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: Just wait till you have to change one of their diapers, Commander.  Give me the Dominion any day.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
::Finds the counselors words inspiring:: CNS: Well said, Commander.

Host OPS_Nash says:
CTO:  You love it and you know it.  By the way, you still have that date with Kiandra and you need to "dress" your part.

Host CNS_Wells says:
CTO: Diapers don't scare me, I've had plenty of experience.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: eyes go wide at the OPS's words. :: OPS: Not in front of everybody, Kyleigh.  Sheesh woman.  I've told you enough times till I'm blue in the face!

Host CNS_Wells says:
CTO: You could say I've taken a lot of crap both in fatherhood and in my counseling career. ::Smiles::

Host OPS_Nash says:
CTO:  I am sure, Miss Chase would love to record that moment and broadcast your lovely image in a PINK Tutu and a big pink bow on your head for all to see.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
OPS: I see a world of breakfast foods in your future woman.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
OPS: Why yes, I would. 

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: Sorry, Ms. Chase.  That’s not gonna happen.

Host OPS_Nash says:
CTO:  Hey, I am still seeking revenge since the last time you did that.

Host OPS_Nash says:
CTO:  Wanna bet?

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: I had no idea you were a cross dresser, Commander. Is this why you have no wife?

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: It will take a lot more than that to get me out of this uniform.

Host CNS_Wells says:
KANDI: Oh, boy. Don't go there.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: realizes both what he said and what Chase has said.  Frowning. :: Self: Where's the Borg when I need them?

Host OPS_Nash says:
::bursts out laughing::

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CTO: My thought to you as well, Commander.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
::Knows a skirt chaser when she sees one::

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
Chase: You see what I put up with on this ship?

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: I feel I am missing something here.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Chase: This is what I meant when I said we were family, that Starfleet is family.  You put your life on the line, in the hands of your ship mates, and you either become tight, or you become dead.  This is a pleasant side effect.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CO: I don't know about the pleasant part sometimes.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
CTO: Oh?   During times of stress, when the Synod are pressing in on us, isn't this the kind of thing that reminds you why we're out here?  What we're doing?

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: And that is exactly the side of this ship I want to tell my viewers about, Captain. Starfleet is a family, so is the Federation. We need to show that.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: grins and nods his head. :: CO: Yeah, you're right there.  That and the fact that I get a kick out of doing my job.

Host CNS_Wells says:
CTO: Yeah, you enjoy it a bit too much at times.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: I hope they understand what they see, but I'm sure they will.  The Federation has smart people living in it.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: What’s that supposed to mean?

Host CNS_Wells says:
CTO: You get to much pleasure out of kicking the snot out of the bad guys.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: What’s not to love?  I mean seriously, anybody that intends harm on one of my shipmates is gonna get a Texas sized boot someplace unpleasant.  What’s not to enjoy about that?

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: This war is all about protecting our way of life. It's all about family.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Chase: Yes, that's just it.  The Federation isn't like other powers, we don't force others to join us, we don't hold our self together with force.  We're the only power that can do that.

Host CNS_Wells says:
CNS: As much as I appreciate you looking out for me, I'm not sure I want to feel responsible for another beings black eye.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CO: As dysfunctional as it can seem to be.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: Look...as far as I'm concerned, if they intend harm to anyone in uniform, they deserve the whompin I deliver.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: Don't feel responsible.  Its not your fault.

Host CNS_Wells says:
CTO: I'm glad I'll be right behind you to pick up the pieces.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: That’s what your there for.  That and to remind me to tone it down some.  I do actually listen to your advice.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
CNS: There is a cost to war, and it's often a hard one to pay.  Things that need to be done, despite being unpleasant.

Host CNS_Wells says:
CTO: So, you're the one. Good to know.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: grins. :: CNS: At least this week. Next week its the XO's turn.  Go easy on him, he's fragile.

Host OPS_Nash says:
ALL:  As I said to Miss Chase earlier, there are no winners in war, just a lot of pain and loss.

Host CNS_Wells says:
CO: I'd rather be nice, until being nice doesn't work, of course but, if we tried the talking approach with the Synod instead of the Hazzard method we may not need a war.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: turns to the reporter and smiles. :: Chase: This is what its like when were not saving the galaxy or whatever.  We're no different than any other person in the Federation.  Well, I look better in this uniform then most men, but other than that, just the same.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
CNS: That's what we all hope, but so far, those efforts have fallen on deaf ears.

Host CNS_Wells says:
OPS: The Captain's right, though. It's times like this that help melt some of that pain. Remember what I told you, it's okay to laugh, once in awhile.

Host OPS_Nash says:
CNS:  True.

Host CTO_LtCmdr_Hazzard says:
:: shrugs and leans back in his chair. :: ALL: Well, as long as I'm on the job, we won't have to worry about loss.  Someone wants to do harm to ya'll.  It will be through me first.  And I'm as tough as they come.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
CO: Do you know what, if anything, was tried to open a dialogue with the Synod, Sir? I haven't heard.

Host Kandi_Chase says:
::Rolls her eyes at the CTO's bragging comment::

Host CO_Ayidee says:
Kandi: I don't have the details, but everything I've heard says that every attempt at contact has been ignored.  But we will continue, that's who we are.

Host CO_Ayidee says:
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<End Session>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>