Stardate: 60304.2222
Title: How To Talk To An Air Vent
Author: Executive Officer Abigail Winters
Time: After "That New Car Smell"
Scene: USS Relentless


The Starbase docking area was cold and Abby felt weary after an uncomfortable and bumpy 15 hour shuttle ride. 

"Commander Winters?" Abby nodded at the two Ensigns before her.

"Captain Khavok sent us to assist with your luggage and show you to your quarters." The young Ensign went to take the pet carrier from Abby's hand but the loud hiss that Loula let out made the young man jump back.

"Sorry, she doesn't make friends easily" The Ensign smiled nervously and picked up another box with less hostile contents.

"This way, Commander" Abby liked her new Captain already as she had been dreading transporting all her own luggage. She was also impressed by her new quarters and thanked the Ensigns who had bought her boxes. Sitting down on the floor she pulled the cat box towards her. However, Loula had done her magical escaping trick and was no longer in it.

The XO decided she could use the exercise so she set out to find her furry friend. The ship was impressive and everything had a shiny new gleam. As Abby made her way down a corridor she spotted an open air duct; if there was one place she didn't want Loula to be it was in the vent system. Abby crouched down and stuck her head in the opening

"Loula - here kitty, kitty, kitty. I promise strokes and chocolate if you come back." Her voice had an echoing quality.

"Now there's an interesting way to talk to an air vent." Abby jumped at the unexpected voice behind her and bumped her head on the vent. She was working up an angry tirade until she turned and found herself looking into piercing blue eyes. There was a moment of silence before Abby counted the number of pips on the man's collar.

"Abigail Winters, Sir"! The Captain looked past her and eyed the air vent. "I'm looking for my lost cat," she continued.

"Alex Khavok" The Captain offered his hand, which Abby shook. "Lost cat, you say?" 

"Cat, cat!" They both turned to look at the Ferengi man who was shuffling down the hall towards them. "There is no paper work saying that a cat can come on board."

The Captain leaned in and whispered to Abby. 

"Consider dealing with Mr. Owbron your first duty." The Captain winked and headed for the bridge.

Abby sighed as she looked at the officious man heading towards her.


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Lt. Commander Abigail Winters
Executive Officer
USS Relentless
NCC-11966
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