Stardate: 61015:2030
Title: A Return of Mixed Happiness
Author: Captain Khavok
Time: After "A Conversation"
Scene: USS Relentless/Starbase 9


There is a saying something to the effect of 'rank hath its privileges'. Relentless' Captain thought of that with a very dry amusement. The privilege of having a CEO pull a stupid, albeit successful stunt, an advanced warship suddenly develop a personality, and an unknown percentage of the "home team" wanting to stick a knife in your back.

One of the things Alex resented the most was the feeling of being in hostile territory in his "home". Khavok hoped that he kept the feelings of anger and revulsion of his face as he passed security checkpoints. He knew intellectually they were just doing their jobs the emotion was something different. He involuntarily tensed when a security officer stepped onto the turbolift with him.

"By your leave sir," the officer asked stepping into the lift.

"Of course," Alex returned with a forced smile.

The doors closed and there was an awkward silence as the tube rocketed up towards the Command deck. Both men studied the lift with seemingly great detail. Khavok found himself wishing he was armed. He knew of course that would bring more complications and be giving his enemies a victory. He also wanted to tap dance on Burgle's face but that would also hand them a victory.
Alex worried also about Libby's return and her putting a leash on Burgle, it would make him look like a mamma's boy.

There was no way out Alex thought glumly.

"Excuse me Sir, but may I speak freely?"

"Permission granted."

"Thank you. I just wanted to say I know who you are, and to apologize for the treatment you received last time you were here."

"Thank you." Khavok said with a neutral tone.

"You probably don't remember me. The last time we saw each other I was probably one of hundreds of infantrymen you saw. I just wanted to let you know that several of my best friends are alive because of you."

Alex's mood lightened and the two talked of old times and the war. It was refreshing for the Captain to hear how he'd helped someone instead of being the object of hate. It did a lot to restore his confidence. As fate would have it the two had chewed some of the same dirt, so to speak.

"I was on leave when what happened to you went down. It doesn't pass the smell test sir; a lot of us old timers were either rotated out or forced to take leave just before the Relentless' upgrades were complete and you arrived to take command. I just want you to know is there are enough of us Dominion vets to have your back."

In a rare surge of emotion Khavok clasped the man's shoulder. The officer returned the gesture.

"I appreciate that more than you know."

"Just returning the favor sir, here's my stop. Have a good day."

"You as well lieutenant."

The remainder of the ride to C & C was uneventful. Captain Khavok stepped out onto the command deck of the station and was directed by an orderly where to find the Admiral.

Alex handed the Admiral his reports and sat looking out a viewport as she skimmed the padd. A short time later Libby spoke.

"Do you have anything good to report?"

"Only that I'm recommending LTCMDR Winters for promotion."

"Your relationship is progressing then?"

"Just what are you implying sir," Khavok said with a sly grin, "you know I only have eyes for you."

"Seriously speaking, she is a capable officer and has more than earned it."

"Hmmmm..." Libby replied, "maybe I'll have her transferred."

Alex laughed. "When we were first assigned together I didn't think she would stay. Now I don't think you could haul her of the Relly with a warp sled."

"Good, what about you?"

"Kill me first, the ship is amazing and the crew top notch. I couldn't ask for anything more."

Admiral Foster nodded. "What will you do with the alien you have in custody?"

"Honestly I don't know, has there been any further contact with them?"

"None."

"I had thought about leaving it on station, but I don't want to risk it at this time and I have a young lieutenant that seems to have some kind of link or attachment."

"Is it affecting his performance?"

"Not that I can determine."

"Carry on for now then. What of your experience with the jump?"

"My feelings are mixed, I must admit to still trying to cope with seeing myself as a female."

"I'll bet. I have some things to help out with that respect. A counsellor, doctor, and science officer have been assigned to you. They should be boarding the Relentless soon."

"Excellent, I'm sure we'll keep them busy."

"Do you have time for dinner?"

"Of course," Alex said with a smile.


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Captain Alexander Khavok
Commanding Officer
USS Relentless
NCC-11966
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