Colony Tour - Part II
Posted on Tue Oct 14, 2025 @ 3:31am by Commodore T'mpest Michaels & Colonel Nicholas Means III & Lieutenant Sarah Mackenzie & Lieutenant Carissa Holmes & Civilian Nyla Thane
Edited on on Tue Oct 14, 2025 @ 3:35am
1,343 words; about a 7 minute read
Mission:
Time After Time
Location: Pangaea
[PREVIOUSLY]
Means had seen, even felt, that enmity all too well having faced the Cardassians unfortunately on multiple occasions. On one hand she was right but on the other hand her statement held the seeds of the same outlook that had led to the Federation being attacked over and over again...but then again that's what made the Federation what it was. Willing to take the chance that maybe THIS time they will learn; to take the risk in the hope that peace would hold.
[CONTINUED]
But his job didn't always allow for that, as the old saying went...'Trust but verify'. "Ambassador. While my Marines primary duties are to protect the Portal Complex, the other sites, and be ready for action if needed. They have also been instructed to intervene in ANY situation. They are not here to police, that's on security, but rest assured any hostile action...even against Cardassians...will not be tolerated."
"Good that is information that I needed to hear. Also there has to be some efforts in trying to work for peace, Colonel. I am not blind to the fact that it doesn't work all the time either. In fact, it does lead to risk of one losing their life, much like what you and the marines face, as well as security. Being a diplomat isn't all sunshine and rainbows, a lot of it is hard work, mixed with sacrifice." Carissa's tone, gentle and not antagonistic.
Having been on missions with negotiators in the past he knew what she was saying, and gave her a nod.
"There will be misgivings, yes, but the Cardassian scientists have all proven themselves. They had no part of the recent conflict and are trusted by the other scientists," T'mpest assured the ambassador. "And, while we will be developing an area around one of the nearby lakes for station personnel, Pangaea is not open to anyone who wishes to visit as most of the planet is restricted. You can rest assured that those who work here have the protection of the Marines, as the colonel said, as well as station security, regardless of their planet of origin." When she returned to the station, she would look into why the ambassador had concerns about gifts being sent from non-family members as this was the first she had heard of the problem.
Nyla listened closely and when the conversation reached a natural pause, she spoke.
“Security should always be a consideration. Especially given the diversity of those working and living here. But I would caution that we don’t allow caution to become a blanket of suspicion. The strength of this colony lies in the trust we’ve built, fragile, yes but real.”
She looked toward Carissa. “If there are specific concerns about items being sent here, I would encourage those be formally logged with Commander Wells or security. So far, we’ve had no incidents among the scientific teams, and I’d prefer not to undermine that cohesion without cause.”
“That said, if there are protocols that need revisiting, we should take the time to revisit them. Our priority is and should remain ensuring the safety of everyone here, without casting shadows over those simply trying to do their work.”
She glanced around the open space, noting the curious glances from a few passersby. “If we’re going to continue this line of discussion, it might be better done somewhere more private than the middle of the colony.” She motioned for them to keep walking.
T'mpest simply nodded in agreement and followed the other scientist.
Carissa just beamed at what Nyla had said she was quite happy to go with Nyla's recommendation, following after T'mpest and Nyla.
Once inside the building, Carissa gave an approving nod, from all that she has seen before, there was even more indication that the scientists were being well taken care of.
Nyla led the group to Starfleet Science Lab One, guiding them through the entrance and into the open, functional lobby. She paused briefly to let them take in the space. “This is one of our main science facilities.” She said. “There are a few administrative offices here, but the majority of the building is dedicated to research. We house an Astrometrics lab, Exobiology unit, Geological survey rooms, and several other specialized labs depending on ongoing needs and projects.”
Carissa nodded, "If time permits, and I have permission, I would like to look at the research. I have a strong interest in archeology, as well as histories of different cultures." her eyes were lit up with all that there was.
A thought occurred to her which caused her smile to dim. "Well, that is if I will be assigned to the station." In her eagerness to see how those who were residing here were doing she had almost forgotten that this might be just a brief visit before she was sent someplace else. There was a look of longing in her eyes as she gazed around once more.
"Then perhaps we should wait and see what happens after the negotiations," T'mpest replied blandly. Most of the research being done in the colony was unexceptionable, but she knew of two Romulans who were working closely with Alanna. That research was not for general discussion.
"Speaking of the negotiations." Carissa remarked, "As much as I would love to see more of this colony. I feel that I shouldn't be seeing anything more. What I have seen is exactly what was needed to be seen; nothing more, nothing less. I thank you for showing me what you have." the ambassador stepping into her business mindset.
"If you wish," T'mpest replied. She turned to the colonel. "Is there anything you wish to show us while we're here?"
Means shook his head. "Probably safer not to take a tour through the base while things are under construction. If the Ambassador would like to see what's being worked up I can show her the plans for the site."
"I would like that sometime." Carissa giving a smile, her mind was though focused on getting the negotiations done and see where she was going to end up at.
Means nodded, "Whenever you'd like to look over the plans, I'm at your disposal."
"Then it looks like we are done for now," T'mpest replied. "Thank you, everyone. The only question now is, who is staying here and who is going back to the station?"
Nyla hadn't expected the visit to wrap up so quickly. She had braced for a drawn out tour, but now found herself almost caught off guard. Her eyes moved between the group before settling on Carissa. “You’re welcome to return anytime, Ambassador.” She said.
T'mpest turned to Sarah. "Well, if they are done, I would like to take a look at a couple of places. Perhaps Nyla will wish to accompany us? Unless Ms. Holmes has need of her."
Carissa shook her head, "It's alright, and I can catch a ride back up to the station. Thank you again for the tour." she turned her gaze towards the others. "Colonel, Nyla, Sarah, Commodore, I hope to see you all later on."
“I’d be happy to accompany you, Commodore.” Nyla said. She turned to the ambassador. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Ambassador. I look forward to working with you in the future.” With that, she returned her attention to T’mpest, awaiting her lead.
T'mpest gave the ambassador a Vulcan bow. "Until later."
Means gave the ambassador a nod.
Then the commodore turned to Nyla. "I am curious to see what has changed on the planet since my last visit." She smiled. "And yes, there may very well be changes. Pangaea has quite the personality."
Nyla nodded. "That's part of this world's charm." She said gesturing for the Commodore to lead the way.
A post by
Carissa Holmes
Federation Ambassador
Dr. Nyla Thane
Deputy Director of Science, Exploration, and Archaeology
Colonel Nicholas Means III
MCO - 21st MEU
Lieutenant Sarah Mackenzie
CAG
Commodore T'mpest Michaels
Commander
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