USS Cherokee 10807.13 Just Desserts Part 10

Starring 
Steve Weller as ASM_Steve and CIV_Ayidee
Mark Haslam as XO_Cmdr_Hazzard 
Dawn Freeman as OPS_Nash 
Rob Bindles as FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski
Christine Sheed as CEO_LtJG_Pasco
Zach Farland as MO_Monroe and CNS_Wells

Absent
Trish Yarborough, as Executive Producer
Brandon Mitcham as CO_Worthington 
Chris Wakelin as CMO_Ens_Downer

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: Night falls over Houston Texas as the majority of the Command Crew converge on the sprawling ranch of the Hazzard family.  A bonfire has been lit and a simple BBQ and picnic table has been spread out for the crew as they seek to relax and enjoy the camaraderie that has been the hallmark of the stalwart crew. ::

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CIV_Ayidee says:
::Sitting at the Hazzard ranch, watching the fire play over the wood and smelling the very strong food smells.::

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::Sits back in the flickering shadows cast by the raging bonfire and watches all the attendees milling about and chatting::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::sitting alone at a table, wishing her private drama will cease and desist soon.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: walks out carrying another tray of what looks like fruit, grinning as he seems to be enjoying having his friends and colleagues at his home.  His parents move from the different parts of the house to better accommodate the crew. ::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
ALL: Okay folks, my Ma and Pa wanted to let you know that you guys are more than welcome to stay here tonight if you want.  We've got plenty of rooms here.  Just make yourselves at home.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she is expecting her father to make an appearance soon.::

CIV_Ayidee says:
XO: Thank you for the offer.  This is a nice place.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: takes out several bottles of what looks like root beer from a barrel filled with ice.  :: ALL: Can I get everyone to gather around for a minute?  There's something I'd like to say to all of you.

CNS_Wells says:
::Attending the Hazzard Family Ho-down.  Joins Kyleigh at her table:: OPS: Would you mind terribly if I joined you, Mrs. Nash?

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::Looks up at the announcement and wanders over to where everyone is gathering::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she looks up.::  CNS:  I guess it'll be all right.  ::then she focuses her attention to Mark.::

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
::Entering the house slowly. Walking through different rooms to find the crew.::

CNS_Wells says:
OPS: It is difficult to explain to a three year old that Daddy is tired because a lunatic put him into a coma then he had to spend three days in court.  I finally got Little Z to go swimming with Gramma.

CNS_Wells says:
::Sits and listens to Mark::

Host ASM_Steve says:
<Party Guest> FCO: Looking for your friends?  They're right through the door there.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: hands a bottle to each guest, waiting for them to gather around before he takes out what looks like a handmade card three feet wide with several names written in a child's hand. :: ALL: My Ma does work at the local elementary school, and when she told them that we might be stopping by they made us this Welcome Home Card.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
CNS:  I understand about trying to find a way to explain something major to young children.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: The card has in bright colorful letters "WELkome HOME CHairokee!"  written on it with a somewhat close picture of the ship painted in finger paints. ::

CNS_Wells says:
OPS: Yes, I guess you would. ::Sips an iced tea he had with him::

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::smiles at the sweet gesture the children have made::
Self: Oh, how cute.

CNS_Wells says:
::Sees the fine card, and thinks it wonderful::

CIV_Ayidee says:
::Looks at the bottle from the XO, wondering what it is.  Smiles at the card, understanding what it really means.::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she sees the card and smiles.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
ALL: I just thought that we all could use a reminder that the work we do, the things that we accomplish...well, they do mean something.  I know the Captain would agree with me when I say that I cannot be any more proud of you all then I am right now.

CNS_Wells says:
::Applauds the XO's comments::

CIV_Ayidee says:
XO: Thank you, Commander.

CNS_Wells says:
::Looks around seeing many of the crew. It is odd to see them out of uniform and in such informal attire::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
ALL: And here's my toast for the night.  To Gary Wells, for his exemplary service in the courtroom over the last three days, and for ever so politely sticking it to the Defense.  I, for one, hope I have that kind of calmness under fire when its my turn.   Salute! :: opens his root beer bottle and takes a drink. ::

CNS_Wells says:
::Drinks to that:: XO: Thank you, Sir.

CIV_Ayidee says:
::Raises the bottle in response after opening, taking a quick drink.  Then spits it out, not having been ready for the effervescence.::  XO: What is this?!

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::Raises her glass in toast, and takes a sip::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: nods his head with a smile at the CNS and tries not to chuckle at the CIV. :: CIV: Its called Root Beer, Tio.  A carbonated beverage.

CNS_Wells says:
::Found it a real treat to meet with so many of the crew's family and having them finally meeting mine::

CIV_Ayidee says:
XO: Doesn't taste much like either of those things, although I have to admit there are a lot of both out there.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she sees her father arrive, he doesn't look happy because he's actually here to give something important to Kyleigh that she inadvertently requested when she invited him to come to this get together.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: meets eyes with the CEO and gives her a warm smile, this being the first chance they had been able to meet each other in civilian clothes.  He feels his cheek flush a bit at how beautiful she truly looks by the fire. ::

CNS_Wells says:
All: This is so nice us all being able to get together like this. Like a family reunion. This was a great idea, Mark. Thank you and your family for hosting this.  I drink to you and them. ::Takes a sip from his glass::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
CNS: Its my pleasure...I wouldn't have missed this for the world. :: still has eyes only for the CEO. :;

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she hurries over to her father.::    Stephen:  Did you bring it?

CNS_Wells says:
::Watches Kyleigh's Dad interact with her::

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::smiles back at Mark, blushing under his gaze::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
<Stephen>  OPS:  Yes, Princess, I did.  I still don't like what you have done.  I never wanted you to see what those files contain.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: How are you feeling?

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: takes a moment to slowly walk over by the bonfire, sipping his drink as he makes a slight gesture for the CEO to join him by the fire. ::

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
::Walked a bit more around. Just curious. And then meeting the others.:: All: Hey folks.

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: I'm much better thank you.  This must be a new thing for you, huh?  A big "family" shin-dig.  This is your chance to taste some real authentic Earth food.  I recommend the dessert table.

CIV_Ayidee says:
FCO: Lieutenant...sorry, Conrad.  Good to see you.

CNS_Wells says:
FCO: Well, hey there stranger. Ain't seen you in ages.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
Stephen:  I know, but I have gone through something major that brought this issue to the front.  I need to come clean or it could cost me everything.  Kevin didn't take the news too well. I haven't seen him since I told him.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: I've tried some of this stuff before, but others?  Not sure how you humans ever survive on your diets.

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::Wanders over towards the bonfire and Mark, smiling politely at partygoers as she walks::

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
All: Well so you are on the ship, days later in Poland, then on the ship again, drinking to much and now here.

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: Some don't.  I'd never recommend this kind of eating be an everyday event.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
<Stephen>  OPS:  Well, can't blame him as this is not easy to take.  Just give him time and he'll come around.

CNS_Wells says:
FCO: Well, you'll be happy to know, it's an open bar.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: I would hope not.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: slowly he reaches forward and takes her hand in his, squeezing gently. :: CEO: Seems its been forever since we had a moment to ourselves..:: he muses, the fire making his eyes seem to sparkle with warmth. ::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
Stephen:  I hope so.   I just hope my superiors will understand.   I never mentioned any of this to them before.

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
CNS: I have noticed. But I guess I take some uhm... water. Might be safer.

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: And if you value your stomach lining stay away from Mr. Hazzard's chili.

CNS_Wells says:
FCO: Live it up, Konrad.  This is the time for it.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: turns his head briefly and shouts out. :: CNS: I heard that Gary.  Just because your stomach ain’t got the gumption for some real home style chili don't mean you have to scare everyone away from it!

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: My nose tells me that, but it never hurts to back up one sense with experience.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
<Stephen>  OPS:  All I can say is that take one day at a time and you'll see what will come of this.  ::he hands her the case filled with PADDs that contain the information about her past.::

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
CNS: Uh uh... Last time, I had too much headache. ::Walks over and grabs a bottle of water opens it and pours it in a glass.::

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
XO: Well, with all the goings on of late, it's not surprising really.  It seems the Cherokee has been a madhouse.

CIV_Ayidee says:
FCO: Did you have a good visit with your family?

CNS_Wells says:
XO: I saw a cow earlier getting into that concoction of yours...it exploded.  And it has five stomachs!

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: Where do you think the burgers came from?  Nice and fresh.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: nods...smiling as he intertwines his fingers with hers. :: CEO: I...I meant what I said in that shuttle.  And I still do.  I love you Liiana.  I want to do right by you.  Be the man you need.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: And pre cooked, or so I've been told.

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
CIV: I did. Thanks for the interest.

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: Ah, life on the ranch.  I can see why someone raised here would really get excited about doing bodily harm to others.  So much violence on a ranch.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::taking the case.::  Stephen:  Thanks Daddy.  I hope I have the right frame of mind to deal with what is in this files.

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::smiles, looking down at her hand in his::  XO: I know Mark.  And as for being the man I need, all I want you to be is yourself.

CNS_Wells says:
FCO: Is your family here, at the party Konrad? They were invited.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: takes a moment to truly look at her, raising their hands together and kissing her finger lightly. :: CEO: As you wish. :: he whispers softly. ::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
<Stephen>  OPS:  You'll do fine.  Look, I really can't stay, your mother is beside herself as she knows about what you have asked.  I've been trying to convince her that you'll be all right.

CIV_Ayidee says:
FCO: Hopefully there will be time for more visits before this trial wraps up.  Which hopefully will be soon, although we can't go into that much.

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::looks into his eyes, smiling, secretly hoping that he doesn't choose tonight to formally introduce her to his parents::

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: I understand what you mean.

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
CIV: Yeah me too. Though I wished the trial was over already.

CNS_Wells says:
All: Truthfully, I can't wait to get back to space exploration.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS/ FCO: So, anyone know if this is where the "Tree" from the story is?

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: slowly he looks over to the fence and smiles, holding his hand up to indicate to her to wait right there, walks to the fence and plucks a small yellow rose from the bush at the ground and walks back, handing it to her. :: CEO: Something so you always remember tonight.

CNS_Wells says:
All: I've had enough of this trial and all the nonsense. If it wasn't for the fact that my family is here, I'd have had enough of this planet for awhile.
CIV: Hmm, the infamous tree.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> : walking up to the CIV, CNS, and the FCO. :: 
CIV/CNS/FCO: Hey, Mark pretty much didn't want to see hide nor hair of that thing ever since that nickname got around.  Good to see you boys here!

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::takes the rose and smiles, lifting it to her nose to breathe in its fragrance, then leans into plant a kiss on his cheek::  XO: Thank you.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
Stephen:  I understand.  I have a lot of friends here that will help me.  I just hope that I have Kevin as well.

CNS_Wells says:
Pa Hazzard: Thank you, Sir. And thanks for having us.

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
Self: Tree story huh.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: feels his cheek go a deep red and warmth flush through them, and none of that is because of the fire.  Wrapping her in his arms gently and enjoying this one perfect moment. ::

CNS_Wells says:
FCO: Yeah, you should ask Kyleigh to tell you that story.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> CNS: You think nothing of it.  I've been dying to get you folks here so I can see the kind of men and women that have to put up with my son's foolishness.

CIV_Ayidee says:
Pa Hazzard: Indeed, thank you for having us to your place.  So the tree really is real?  We thought it was a myth, or some of us thought it might be.

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::smiles and sighs enjoying the warmth of the fire and the embrace::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
<Stephen>  OPS:  As I said, let him have his space.  He will come around after all, he loves you.

CNS_Wells says:
Pa Hazzard: He's a good man, Sir. You can be proud of him but, yeah, he is a handful, huh? ::Smiles::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
Stephen:  I know.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa  Hazzard> CIV: Oh its real alright.  Its just beyond the bonfire.  Sometimes I send my boy a Holo of it for Christmas.  Just to get his goat.

CIV_Ayidee says:
Pa Hazzard: He's got a goat?  Didn't realize he had livestock still.  But that's it there, huh?  I thought it'd be...bigger.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> CIV: Its a real shame what Starfleet did to you.  To hear my boy talk about you, your the closest thing Starfleet’s had to a Jim Kirk in some time.  That's some pretty high praise coming from my boy.

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: I'd like to see the tree, myself.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
<Stephen>  ::he hugs his daughter::  OPS:  And I love you too.  Well, I do have to leave Princess, You take care of yourself.

CIV_Ayidee says:
Pa Hazzard: They did what had to be done, I knew I was disobeying orders when I did it.  Even if the orders were...never mind.  This isn't the place or time yet.

CNS_Wells says:
::Laughs::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: smiles as he looks down at the CEO and brushes his fingers against her cheek. :: CEO: So...what do you think of the place?  This is where I grew up.  Kinda nice to be able to show it off to the people that are important in my life.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
Stephen:  I will.  ::she watches him leave, then a stream of tears roll down her cheeks.  She goes off to be alone for a few moments.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> CIV/CNS/FCO: You folks don't have to explain to me "need to know"  Used to wear the uniform myself.  Know all about it.  Just wanted to make sure you folks know that there are still some of us that think the work you do is good...and just.

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
XO: I haven't had much of a chance to take it all in, but it is beautiful, and so open.

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
::Puts the glass in the air.:: Pa: Good to know sir.

CNS_Wells says:
::Looks over at XO/CEO::  XO/FCO: I don't think Mark has his mind on the tree.  More like he's thinking of show Miss Pasco to his hayloft.  ::Smiles at the couples PDA's::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> :: looks to where the CNS indicates and bellows out. :: XO: MARK WILLIAM ALLIOUSCIOS HAZZARD!  You get your butt over here right now!!!

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
XO: I mean, I know we work up there, but from here it seems like..  ::stops taken aback by the bellowing::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: winces as his father yells . :: CEO: Hold that thought...I think I might have to do some grievous harm to my Father.

CNS_Wells says:
Pa Hazzard: Did ya see me on the Chase Report, Thursday night?  How did I look?

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::stifles her giggles at the name Alliouscios::

CIV_Ayidee says:
Pa Hazzard: It's an honor to know that we are holding up the... ::Stops as the yelling starts.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> :: holds his finger up to hold the CNS's comment for just a moment. :: XO: Son, you better get over here and explain to me why your playing lollygog while you should be seeing to your guests.  You ain’t too tall for me to take the belt to you!  Now GIT!

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: groans and tries to explain but with every chance to talk his father over rides him.  Sighing as he knows its useless to argue.:: Pa: Yes Pa...

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard> :: returns his look to the rest of the crew. :: ALL: I swear that boy makes me wonder where his head is sometimes.  And just who is that young filly he was talking to?

CIV_Ayidee:
Pa Hazzard: That's Lieutenant Pasco, our Chief Engineer.

CNS_Wells says:
XO: Yeah, your Dad is right, you're being very anti-social. And, you are always hogging that girl. How long she been on the ship now? I hardly know her. You'd think when a lady puts a guy in a coma she aught to be allowed to say hello to him.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she regains her composure and she makes her way to the CNS and waits her turn::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: turns to look at the CNS with what can only be described as a murderous gaze.  Mouthing "Wait till we get back to the ship." at him as he returns to the table to bring out more snacks and things. ::

CNS_Wells says:
::Sees OPS coming back. Quietly asks her, without being obvious:: OPS: You okay?

CNS_Wells says:
All: I love buggin' that guy. It gives me a perverse pleasure.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: Everyone needs a hobby.

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
:: gives the CEO a look that practically shouts "sorry" as he continues to clear plates away ..blowing her a kiss and grinning at the sight of her. :;

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
CNS:  Daddy brought the files.  He wasn't too keen on the idea but he complied anyway.

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::walks over to the CNS, theatrically holding out her hand and introducing herself::  CNS: Hello there! I am Liaana Pasco, Chief Engineer and the lady who put you in a coma! How are you tonight?
::grins cheekily::

CNS_Wells says:
OPS: Put them away for now. Try and have some fun. We will both go through the stuff your Dad brought later. Agreed?

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
CNS:  Easier said that done, but I'll try.  One more thing, I am not letting this case out of my sight.

CNS_Wells says:
CEO: Ahh, very nice to meet you.  Now I can see for myself what all the fuss was about.  You are looking splendid my dear.  ::Smiles::

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Pa Hazzard>:: watches the young CEO for a moment...his face passive and almost stilled before he starts to laugh loudly, slapping his hand on his metallic thigh. :: CEO: I like you, Ms. Pasco.  You got spirit.  You make yourself at home here.  I've got to make sure my boy don't spend too much time mooning over you while his friends are here.

CNS_Wells says:
OPS: Okay, maybe have it beamed to the ship?

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
::curtsies and smiles:: Pa Hazzard: Thank you.
OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
CNS:  Did you not hear me?  I am not letting this out of my sight!  This is too fragile of information about my life.  I don't want to risk it getting into the wrong hands.

Action: Ma Hazzard starts bringing out the main course, including a large pot of Hazzard Thermonuclear chili.

CNS_Wells says:
OPS: Okay, okay, relax. It was just a suggestion.  Sit on it if you want just lighten up and have some fun.  Pick on Mark. That always cheers you up. ::Smiles, hoping she knows he has her best interest in mind::

CEO_LtJg_Pasco says:
Pa Hazzard: I do have to say, it is a lovely place you have here.

CIV_Ayidee says:
CNS: Is it safe to breath that scent?  I think we're all right over here, aren't we?

Host XO_Cmdr_Hazzard says:
<Ma Hazzard>:: smiles as she walks over to the CNS :: CNS: My boy told me that you haven't had your self a good home cooked meal in some time.  I made sure to fix you up a double helping seeing as you've been such a help to him.  You truly can't say no to an old woman now, can you? :; gives him a sad supportive look. ::

FCO_LtJG_Zdunovski says:
::Looks up when ma Hazzard speaks. And walks over to get some food.::

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she just smiles somewhat as she holds on to the case she is carrying.::

CNS_Wells says:
CIV: It smells like Hazzard’s cologne.  I recommend we break out the EVA suits ::Laughs::

CIV_Ayidee says:
::Laughs, then decides to be brave and try a small serving.::

CNS_Wells says:
Ma Hazzard: Umm, no Ma'am?  I guess that would be rude.  Dish it up.

CNS_Wells says:
::Is so going to regret this, and Downer ain’t around to forbid me to eat it either.

OPS_Cmdr_Nash says:
::she doesn't eat the chili or drink the root beer as she doesn't like either one.::

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<End Mission>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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