USS Dark Fire (IC)

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0855

When hora stopped and spoke the the Luxan it paused and looked at her before speaking. A new language that the translator took several minutes to process, thankfully it was a hard language.

“Are you deaf or stupid?” The Luxan asked after a pause. “Do I need to repeat myself or talk slower so your tiny brain can understand me?”

At seven foot in height he was rather impossing as she looked them over. In his chest were what looked like rings of metal that went through his collar bones. The tattoo’s on his face probably hurt a bit, but the metal… had he been conscious for that?

“We apologize for any misunderstanding.” Reeves said once the unit wasa translating. “We aren’t from this region of space and are trying to gather some information. We are from a region of space that is an organization of worlds and species. Is that the same here? Do you speak a common language?”

“We can pay for your time in gems, we don’t have any.. Imperial Credits.” Reeves said hoping he got the words right.

“Why were you speaking Nebari to me?” The Luxan asked.

“A Nebari was the first species we encountered when we landed. So our translation device used that.”

“Why don’t you have Delvian translator microbes? Nevermind, I don’t care, and I’m rather busy. Bother someone else.” Walking away the Luxan pushed his way through the crowed like a Klingon, entering a building with flashing words and pictograms.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“Well, crap… that was an epic failure. The universal translator seems to be glitchy here. Maybe we need to find us some Delvian translator microbes?” Hora said to Commander Reeves

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“I’m unsure if scientific specifics are my forte,” she replied to the ensign, “but we’ll see.”

Her hands fell back to her sides. “Oh, no, I’m not nervous. I’m simply keeping my ponytail from loosening up. With the current circumstances, the last thing I need in an emergency is hair in my face.”

Quite the progress they were making with those four steps. Xiana cleared her throat to get the leaders’ attention. “If I may suggest, perhaps we could go on a more traditional route and find an interpreter? It might take a little longer to locate someone, but at least we’ll have the assurance that they’re familiarized with the region’s dialects and that they might be recognizable enough by the locals to where they’ll be more open to speaking to us.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0855

“Ah yes,” The Ensign replied uncomfortably. “I hope I didn’t speak out of turn.”

“The scientific aspects of writing an introductory program are more Psychological than scientific. Write a speech and use the holo images as your slide show”

***

“Microbes are possibly Captain. Unfortunately The Counselor has already gone through decon as per Starfleet protocols, otherwise she might have been able to translate for us.”

“I recommend staying in one place and allowing the computer time to process all the languages. Eventually it will be able to translate them and we won’t need to go through the discomfort of attempting to communicate that we need a translator.”

“Or we walk around and speak Nebari to everyone.” Ensign Yito suggested. “I can eventually learn a new language, but not nearly as fast as the computer.” She could but that wasn’t a reasonable expectation of a biological life form, and she really was trying to conform to be Bajoran.

“The counselor’s suggestion may be more appropriate. We can ask for one from a Nebari, in Nebari. That may be the easiest way until the computer can adapt.”

“Thank the Prophets we didn’t bring any Klingons or Gorn along otherwise we’d be in the Eternal Fire by now. And Jail.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
“Well, I like the waiting idea. Let’s just wait an hour. Now on Orion we’d engage in sex to kill the time, but that is a non-start with this bunch. We could play Orion bluff—a fast-paced, game involving deception and pheromone manipulation, but I’d win that… Lt Mcleo what would you recommend?”

Mcleo
“Humans are all about toasting marshmallows and sharing rad tales. We should totally give it a shot! Dudes and dudettes”

“That sounds like good fun. I can tell some exaggerated stories of my past exploits!” Hora stated to the others. Maybe we could share Earth campfire songs and get Dr L’Sa to sing!”

“Or she drops some wisdom from Surak's vibes?” McLeo offered.

“How does that sound?” Hora asked the rest of the group with a mischievous smile.

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

Giving a look at their surroundings, the idea of bonding activities at that moment wasn’t the most appealing to her. “If we’ll be waiting, I’d like permission to do some exploration. I won’t wander too far, and I welcome company for safety purposes.”

Typically, strengthening the group’s chemistry was something she endorsed as a psychiatrist. But they weren’t her patients, and she wouldn’t make too much of a friendly comrade at the time anyway. Every passing day in her duties the idea of limitations, at any degree, was feeling more dreadful.

Who knew what or who she could encounter. For all she knew, they were as unpleasant as the earlier gentleman. She didn’t quite care, at least she learned something.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0900

“As this is not the time, nor place, for any of those activities I would recommend ‘browsing the market’.” Dr. L’Sa replied in her standard monotone voice. “Also, I have never learned to sing. Nor am I inclined to begin learning now.”

“I recommend we keep our eyes open and we not travel far from each other. People are watching us, and I’m not sure why. They may be slavers, or just curious.” Reeves added giving Captain Hora a frown.

***

“I will accompany the Doctor, tricorder scans from an alternate location may assist in the Ligua-Code assimilation.” Ensign Yito said. “Unless anyone objects?”

“Go ahead ensign,” Reeves said with a nod. “Fifteen minute check ins. See if you can get some DNA and ship scans as well. We’ll need to start building a data base until we locate the Parasites.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“I just want to go on the record,” Hora announced, standing like a federation diplomat, “as the captain… that I was fully prepared to toast marshmallows with my human crew.” She pause. “What is a marshmallow, by the way?”

“It’s like… a white fluffy ball thing,” McLeo offered.

Hora turned to him, blinking slowly. “That’s not helpful.”

McLeo shrugged. “It’s edible.”

Hora tapped his communicator. “Dark Fire, define ‘marshmallow.’”

“Marshmallows consist of four ingredients: sugar, water, air, and a whipping agent—aerator, typically a protein,” Dark Fire replied crisply. “The specific composition varies depending on desired texture and bounce.”

Hora stared at McLeo. “So it’s not meat?”

“Nope.”

“I assumed it was like a hot dog. I still can’t believe you humans eat your pets,” Hora muttered, glancing at Reeves with genuine concern.

Dark Fire sighed. “Humans don’t eat their pets.”

They wandered deeper into the market, passing stalls of sizzling street food and questionable souvenirs. Hora eyed a vendor selling plush green spiked plants and whispered, “Are these edible?”

Reeves didn’t answer. He just walked faster.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0905

“Vulcans cannot consume Marshmallows as the sugar content would react badly with our digestive system. Our Copper rich blood cannot absorb the sugar as a Human or Orion is capable.” Dr. L’Sa commented watching her tricorder readings. “There are twenty-four distinct species with a two-hundred-foot radius of me. This will take some time to collect the data we need.”

“A hot Dog is made from the pureed waste product of the four-leg creature Sus domesticus of the Suidae family, or the Bos taurus of the Bovine family. Neither is of the Canine family grouping. And although a few humans make pets of either animal, those pets are not normally used for hot dogs, though they are probably eaten.”

“There are several dissertations on this matter if you’d like me to send you copies. It’s a quite fascinating topic amongst Vulcan psychologists. Apparently, the food is named such based on a false belief that original ‘hot dogs’ were made from the meat of canines which was an acceptable food in the country of Origin.”

When Hora asked if an item was edible Dr. L’Sa scanned it and raised an eyebrow. “Although your body can process the food item in question, I would recommend not consuming it as it’s composition would result in a digestive distress resulting in a complete evacuation of your bowels through your anus.”

“I believe Humans call it ‘Getting the Runs’.”​

 

[milkmaiden38]

LT McLeo

It had been a while, so Shino check to see if the universal translator might work now. He pick a stall with a large humunoid looking toad behind it. the stall had all sorts of pills, bottles with colored fluids, and some gasses.

“Yo dude, what's your handle?” McLeo asked.

“Dr. Vellak” The humanoid toad croaked back

“What are you selling?” Lt McLeo asked with a purr.

“Various drugs and stimulants”

"Rad! I'm into this gnarly thing called Catnap, but that's off the menu now. Still, my crew digs on caffeine, a stimulant, which is pretty much a drug. Have anything like that?" Shino replied with a purring chuckle

The toad pushed a blue bottle forward "Try this on your friends, it is a stimulant cocktail. It get most species stimulated. The alkaloid blend with risshaz chemicals is borderline reckless. Might cause cardiac arrest."

"That is way gnarlier than a Bolian on hytrazine, dude! They totally buzz through walls, bro." McLeo joked

"Never heard of Hytrazine or a Bolian"

"No biggie, but like, everything's a buzz if you trip on it wrong. Even our captain's pheromones vibes. Catch you later, Bro" McLeo said as he departed the stall.

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

If not for the occasional odd look from a passerby, Xiana would’ve considered the touring rather pleasant. She tried her best not to stop too long at any stall, not wanting to get the vendors’ hopes up that she could purchase much with her lack of currency. Instead, she inched every here and there when things piqued her interest the most. In a perfect world, she’d already be chatting them up.

A certain setup with clothing caught her eye. The merchandise offered was a variety of attire, sewn of unique patterns and similar muted colors. She couldn’t confirm with a sole glance, but she was inclined to believe not one design was alike. The sharpness of the shaped in the clothing indicated expertise, while the stitches verified handwork. It made it all more impressive. “Are these not divine?” she asked to no one in particular. “I wonder how similar the textiles are to our own. It could give us a hint on their resources.”

Alas, she wasn’t there for a shopping trip. The apparent woman who maintained the stall seemed to understand Xiana’s respectful nod. She returned her attention to the group. “Is the translator reliable yet?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“A few of the languages are processing and translatable, albeit in a still crude manner.” Dr. L’Sa replied as Reeves looked at Lt. Shino.

“I do hope you’re not getting into trouble Lieutenant.” He said with a raised eyebrow. “It would be most… unfortunate.”

“Captain, Commander, I believe that finding a pilot willing to trade for their star charts, and information, would be our best alternative.” Ensign Yito said. “They tend to talk more than bureaucrats. Especially after a few drinks."

Looking at Shino she added, "No offense intended."​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“Ok… let me get this right. First you wanted us to stay in one place and wait an hour. I agree and even offer to toast sugar over a fire and tell tall tales. Then I was told to walk around the market… now you want to go back to the space port and talk to a pilot? Is it possible for you to make up your mind?” Hora asked with some irritation in her voice.

“No, Commander, I was just hittin' the local drug dude about stims for you and the Captain.” McLeo replied

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“Captain, in the ensign’s defense, the development of the translator’s abilities has been augmented by being exposed to the population, as she had anticipated. Not to mention, the doctor had pitched the market, not obligated.” Xiana tried. She considered adding how she hadn’t quite planned to make an excursion out of her curosity, but that wasn’t something worth being defensive about. “If anything, the Lieutenant being able to use it and being proactive in gaining more knowledge assures we’re not just wasting time.”

“Naturally, I can’t recommend any ideas on how to go on about the charts,” the counselor continued, “but I did want to ask for suggestions on, for lack of a better term, blending in more efficently. It might not be the appropriate place to stand out.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0910

“Captain. We needed languages in order to speak with anyone. The fastest way to gain those languages was to walk around the market. It also allowed us to perform genetic scans of te local populace and determine if any of the Silver Parasites were present in the locals. So far we have gained ten languages, thirty biomarkers and no Silver Parasites. As we also need navigational charts of the area, the fastest way to collect them is either from a bureaucratic liaison, or a pilot.”

“Also Sugar is not amenable to the Vulcan digestion. Nor is it likely that we find any marshmallows on this planet, or even in this galaxy.” Reeves explained in his constant calm demeanor.

“And the counselor is correct we stand out, due to the nature of our uniforms. Aquisition of local clothing may be prudent.”​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

“I understand aesthetics aren’t priority,” Xiana began, “but there is a shopowner a few stalls down with lovely wear that seems to be appropriate for the environment. I wasn’t sure if we would be able to purchase without the common currency, but perhaps if the translator was done we could use it to ask.”

“Perhaps, resembling the locals could not only avoid us conflict, but help them be more trusting of us. At the very least, it shows we are willing to assimilate.”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“If I can’t think for myself… I’m just putty in the hands of those who can,” Hora muttered, more to the static in her head than to anyone nearby. Then, louder—decisive, almost defiant: “Let’s go to the clothing stall.” And before anyone could object or overthink, she strode off, slicing through the crowd like a blade through silk.

The air was a cacophony—languages clashing mid-sentence, voices rising and falling in the dance of negotiation. Some sounded like haggling, others like threats disguised as charm. The stall itself was a riot of color, a visual scream against the beige monotony of the food stall next door, where something brown and vaguely gelatinous pretended to be edible.

Here, though—here was chaos she could appreciate. Fabrics spilled from shelves and hooks in every direction: neon clothing tangled with matte leathers?, sequins clinging to mesh. The scent was unmistakable—textiles and sweat, with a hint of something synthetic and vaguely illegal.

Hora sifted through the madness until her fingers landed on a body wrap with strategically cutouts, unapologetically revealing. It clung to curves and she had plenty of thoses. “Perfect for a sex slave,” she murmured, half amused, half calculating. Then she turned, holding it up like a trophy. “Dr. Marlowe, Commander Reeves—do we have approval?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0915

Reeves looked over at what she was holding and his eyebrow rose by a quarter of an inch in disapproval. “Might I remind you that you’re a Starfleet Captain, and as such certain protocols are in place.”

Ensign Yito was running her fingers through something that looked more like cloud pretending be material, the color shifting in the light. Putting it back she sighed. There wasn’t anyone for her to wear it for. No one to appreciate such an item on her skin.

Dr. L’Sa however did bring a similar material to the counselor’s attention. Even as she was selecting other clothing for herself and the Commander. She knew his sizes as well as her own so was able to easily to select items that fit, or could be adjusted to fit.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora

“I can’t tell how many times the iconic federation Captain Kirk was without a shirt. But I guess that was ok for him and that time frame.” Hora grumbled. She chose a less “exposing” wrap, that was still functional and sexy.

“I’m set…” She told commander Reeves

Lt McLeo also found an acceptable outfit, sort like a old earth tunic. He’d need to cut a hole for his tail, but it worked. He had also found a sort of round pith-like hat which added a bit of flare to the outfit.

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

The things the woman would do if she had the time and disposable income. She could lose days running her hands through the clothing. She resisted nonetheless. For all she knew, it wasn’t appropriate.

Still, finding something that was fitting to those around her yet efficent to move it was proving difficult. Quietly, she hoped to come across something she found visually appealing. It was looking like she’d have to compromise.

“As far as attire goes, I don’t think it’s bad to have something you like aesthetically,” she replied, bringing what seemed like a shawl closer to her face. “I do think it’s important to be realistic in the chance we have to escape or fight or meet with diplomats. I don’t know the attire protocols beyond my profession, but I do want to be safe.”

She took note of the material presented by the doctor. “This is beautiful. I’d love to know how they fabricate it,” Xiana answered. She was relunctant, however, nervous it would bring too much attention to her. Good or bad, she didn’t want it in an unknown place.

Instead, she was drawn in by a piece that blended wine colored stitching with dusty greens. She was enamored with the detail of the design, primarily rhombus shapes that came together like compasses.

Not too happy to see it was a dress, she kept her pants underneath, hidden by the long cloth. Her shoulders had a rare occassion to breathe, but a thick collar accompanied the dress. It felt familiar. The dress fell on her silhouette gracefully. Xiana was thankful that the material wasn’t too heavy. She took her hair down, eyeing those around her to see if she could mimick their styles. “Is this okay?”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0915

“It’s because of his actions, and several other, that protocols and codes of decorum have changed.” Reeves replied calmly while speaking with the shop keeper and trying to haggle the price.

Ensign Yito watched as McLeo found clothing and was grateful she’d never dated him. His clothing choices were abominable,

Eventually satisfied with clothing options Reeves was wearing slacks with a dark brown shirt while Dr. L’Sa found a dark blue dress that ended just below her knees. It had an oval cut out on her chest revealing a rather generous portion of her breasts, but still concealed most of them.

Yito opted to keep most of her uniform but had managed to find a semi translucent top that hinted at what lay beneath, if you could find the right light and angle.​

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora
Hora moved gracefully through the market, her wrap of local fabric clinging to her form with elegance. The garment didn’t just enhance her curves—it seemed to highlight them. Sex appeal wasn’t something she performed; it was something she radiated, no matter what she wore.

She led the group through the sprawling market, a chaotic symphony of species, scents, and sounds. Bioluminescent signage blinked over some of the stalls.

As they passed the towering structure Yito had flagged earlier—a stone structure—Hora slowed.

“That the admin hub, Yito pointed out,” she said, her voice low but clear. “Might be worth checking. Maybe we could dig up intel on nearby stars… maybe even who's been moving through them.”

Her gaze lingered on the building "thoughts?"

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Stardate 29870607.0930

“Sounds like a plan. Maybe split into two groups. One Checks the building another checks local water holes for a pilot. Maybe between the two we can get descent maps and information.” Reeves suggested.

“If we follow that plan, I’d like to check the pilots. I have no diplomatic or bureaucratic skills. And I can hold my own in a small bar fight if needed.” Yito commented.

Dr. L’Sa planned on going with the bar personnel as they would have more need of medical assistance if things went south, more than an Office visit would.

“I think McLeo would do well with the bar... pilot to pilot conversation and all.” Yito added as she looked at the Counselor and gave a tilt as if to say, ‘come with us.’​

 

[sereneotter00]

◅ XIANA MARLOWE ▻​

Noting the ensign’s suggestion, Xiana nodded, hoping she could contribute further. She did pray internally that the patreons of the location were more… approachable than the man that received them. Hopefully, with their new attire, their talks would carry on with less hiccups.

Following her group to the establishments, the counselor hung back with the Doctor. “I wonder if there are any money exchange houses in this place. Perhaps having actual currency would make things smoother,” she said, following with a “You look lovely in those clothes.”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Hora​

“I guess everyone’s off to the bar—except me,” Hora muttered, her tone laced with disbelief and hurt. She understood the logic behind the team’s split, sure. But logic didn’t make the sting of exclusion any softer.

She forced a smirk. “Fine. I’ll have all the fun while you lot get pawed by drunkards with boundary issues.”

With a flick of her hair and a determined stride, Hora headed toward the Administration building. It resembled a Federation office complex—sleek, sterile, and bureaucratically intimidating. The entrance opened into a cavernous lobby with polished floors and two reception counters embedded into the far wall like watchful sentinels. Multiple corridors branched off from the central space.

She approached one of the counters, where an alien receptionist perched behind a console. The creature resembled a massive bird—two expansive wings folded neatly against its sides, four muscular legs rooted to the floor, and a stubby tail twitching with idle energy. Its beaked head swiveled unnervingly, eyes darting side to side like it was scanning for threats or prey.

Hora eyed the razor-thin beak and silently prayed the translator was functioning. She didn’t want to find out how sharp that thing really was.

“Hello,” she said, keeping her voice steady. “I’m new to this region of space. I need information on nearby star systems—and any known parasites I should avoid.”

Lt. McLeo​

Shino stepped into the bar and was immediately struck by its resemblance to the taverns of the Kilimer Reaches—except this one was clearly built for creatures twice his size. The ceiling hung low, heavy with smoke and shadow, its rafters barely visible through the haze. Glow balls dangled from rusted chains, casting a dim light. The walls were lined with more glow orbs, but the place remained stubbornly unlit.

Tables and chairs filled the room, crafted from durable but cheap materials, each one scarred with knife gouges and burn marks. A massive hearth dominated one wall, large enough to roast an ox whole, and it radiated a comforting heat.

Behind the bar, the bartender was an amphibian of impressive size. Four arms moved with practiced efficiency, two legs planted firmly, and a thick tail curled behind her like a whip waiting to strike. She croaked something unintelligible as she placed four drinks on a tray for a nearby table.

Lt. McLeo leaned casually against the bar, flashing a grin. “I’ll snag one of those, babe,” he said, voice smooth and just a little reckless—testing the waters, or maybe just trying to stir them.