disclaimer - Star Trek and its affiliates are the property of Paramount, their use here is for entertainment purposes only. Any resemblance to people living or dead is totally intentional (when in doubt, go with what you know!), so enjoy!
Author - Talani Silverwolf
Rating:R - For Language
Genre - Adventure/Romance
The Enterprise has a new officer assigned, and she's not what anyone would have expected. But is there something more to Commander Grace Jimenez's presence than they've been told?
Wind at Our Backs
"What do you mean we've been assigned a new crew member?" There was little doubt as to the Captain's surprise, the last thing he'd been expecting to hear from Admiral Forrest was that a new officer would be arriving within the next two days.
The Admiral wore a contrite look as he replied, "I know Jon, but the brass feels that she would give us a more even footing with the Vulcans."
"What kind of training does she have that would convince Starfleet to assign her with us, in hopes of leveling the playing field?"
Forrest skimmed through the pile of notes before him, "Well, she holds degrees in zoology and paleontology, she also has extensive experience in sociology, biology, not to mention..."
Archer waved a hand in exasperation as he responded, "All right, all right! I get the picture!"
"Be civil Jon, she's descended from the ancient peoples of the American Southwest, from what I hear
her behavior doesn't conform with the norm."
Archer sighed, he didn't like being put in the position of having to accept a new person without having at least an interview. From the Admiral's tone, he was keenly aware that he didn't have the option of refusing the lady either. He couldn't quite keep the sarcasm from his voice as he replied, "Thank you Admiral, as always, you've put a bit of excitement in my otherwise boring routine."
He closed the connection before slumping into his chair.
As the intercom beeped, he threw his head back against the chair, "Archer here."
"Captain?" It was his communications officer, there was a puzzled note as she said, "We've just received a transmission from Concourse Station sir, confirming the appointed collection of our new crewman. Sir?"
"That's correct Ensign, H.Q. feels we could benefit from the services she can provide. Please inform them we'll be arriving by 14:00 hour."
"Yes sir."
He straightened and shook his head as he rose, leaving his quarters with a broad gait to join the bridge crew.
Ensign Hoshi Sato sat at her station, she hadn't missed the irritation in the Captain's voice. Curious too, she hadn't been aware that they were in need of any specially trained personnel. Glancing over at science ops, she realized the futility of trying to glean any answers from the Sub-commander.
All heads turned as Captain Archer stormed out of the lift and onto the bridge, he paused before taking his seat.
"Ensign", he said to Mayweather, "Plot in a course for Concourse at warp 3 please.
"Aye sir." Came the immediate response.
After several minutes of silence, Lieutenant Reed finally asked, "Sir, begging your pardon, when were assigned a new officer?"
Turning to regard Malcolm with an enigmatic look, he sardonically said, "Why I received the notice of transfer all of 40 minutes ago Lieutenant. It was also made clear that the length of her tenure is indeterminate."
Reed was about to say something, when the calm even voice of their science officer interrupted him.
"Captain, exactly who are we bringing aboard, and what credentials does she hold that would recommend her an assignment here?"
Sitting back in his chair, his gaze on the star field ahead, answered, "We're picking up one Commander Grace T. Jimenez, who has numerous 'credentials', which Starfleet deemed good enough to warrant an irregular posting."
"I see sir."
"Since her extensive knowledge pertains to sciences, I've decided that she'll report directly to you."
A satisfied grin crossed his face as he angled his head to see T'Pol's startled look.
"May I enquire as to why?"
"Since she's so knowledgeable in a number of sciences, it's only logical place to assign her to, besides, you're the only one we have working that position, it might not be a bad idea to get you a little help."
The look she shot him said more than any words could, that she didn't feel she required any assistance. Privately, he still felt somewhat annoyed with H.Q.'s abrupt decision. He hadn't even seen her file yet, just a few notations the Admiral had transmitted during their briefing.
After several more minutes, he stood, pausing as he turned, "Hoshi, let me know when we arrive at Concourse Station will you? I'll be in my ready room if you need me."
"Yes sir."
There were apprehensive glances exchanged by several of the crew as Archer disappeared through the door.
At the sound of the entry chime, Jon muttered to himself, "Damn!", then louder, "Come in."
He watched T'Pol enter, noting some hesitance as she started, "You seem to somewhat displeased with Starfleet's orders. And if I might add, you appear to be taking it as an affront to your authority as well."
Lowering his gaze, he shook his head, "No, I'm taking it as an attempt on their part to rearrange my crew as they see fit!"
"I'm sure that wasn't their intent, sir."
Archer took a deep breath as he glared at her, managing to keep a level tone, "No? We'll see if you're correct. She's been allowed to bring any equipment that might pertain to assisting with her studies. As fate would have it, we just happen to have quarters spacious enough to fit the bill."
She briefly searched his face before giving a curt nod, "You are referring to crewman Daniel's room, are you not?"
"As a matter of fact, I am. So on your way out, tell Malcolm to assemble a team and have them go over the place with a fine toothed comb if they have to. I don't want her finding anything that could send her God only knows when. I wouldn't want to try and explain that to the Admiral."
With a final glance, T'Pol left without her usual ease.
"Dammit!" He ran a hand across his face, wondering why was it every time he got things back on track, something always turned up trying to derail it.
Now we is gonna see some sparks flying! The crew gets to meet their newest officer, and she's brought a few surprises with her! (He,he,he! Just keep reading, you see shortly.)
Part 2
Wind at Our Backs
They were on final approach to Concourse station, an old Taurus style ring station that had been placed within an area used by a great number of ships on a regular basis. It's main purpose was to serve as a way place for refueling, repairs, and replenishing of provisions, but there were also establishments that catered to those more basic need. That was why Captain Archer had only Mayweather and Commander Tucker go over in a shuttle to gather up their new associate and her gear.
Archer dutifully reported to the shuttle bay and awaited the arrival of Ms. Jimenez. The first impression he had was of a tall lean figure, dark hair shortly cropped. The dark brown eyes that met his were blazing with intense curiosity, a slight smile playing at the corners of her lips. She leaped down and confidently approached him.
"Captain Archer, I presume?"
Reaching out to shake the proffered hand, he made note of the firmness in the grip, "Yes Commander, welcome aboard Enterprise."
"The honors mine sir, thought at first Bob was kidding me."
"Well then, why don't we get you settled in first. I'm sure your anxious to take a look around."
"I certainly am. Oh, let me take that.", she said as Travis carried out a handled container. She held it gingerly, grasping the handle with both hands.
Captain Archer hefted some of the articles as well, and led her to her new quarters. Once the crates, sacks and luggage were secured, she assured them that she'd be delighted to join the senior staff at dinner. As he headed back to his own room, Archer went over his own reactions to Commander Jimenez.
I forgot Admiral Forrest said she was of Native American descent. It's obvious once you take in those facial features. Those large eyes framed in high cheek bones and pronounced nasal bridge sure remind me of archaic photos I've seen of her people.
Commander Grace Talani Jimenez sighed with noticeable relief as she slung her duffel bag haphazardly onto the floor, then flopped her statuesque frame across the bed. She leaped up as indignant, feline complaints began issuing from the carrier.
"Hang on Jake, I'm letting you out."
With a final "Mrtt", Jake burned her a look of pure loathing as he strolled past her, tail twitching while he inspected their new home.
"Well Mister meow head, what do you think?"
"Mroow!"
"Yeah, that's what I thought you'd say."
She leaned down and scooped him up, ignoring his "Mrpt", of protest. Scritching his chin, she stretched back on the bed and soon had him purring like a coffee mill. With a final pat, she got up, stripping on her way into the bathroom, and climbed in the shower as soon as she turned on the water.
Singing as she dried off, Grace was feeling much better and glad to finally be on board. She still was unclear as to why she had been chosen for this assignment, only being told her skills would serve her people well.
My people they say, Ha! My people were hunted like animals and sent far from their homes to die from sickness and disease. But this is where I had hoped to be, I will not question the powers that guided me here.
She rummaged through her clothes and found a uniform that was still presentable, she dressed and gave her hair a quick rub of the towel, then combed it. Happy, she hummed as she finished getting ready, she cheerfully said later to Jake and headed for ship's mess.
Author - Talani Silverwolf
Rating:R - For Language
Genre - Adventure/Romance
The Enterprise has a new officer assigned, and she's not what anyone would have expected. But is there something more to Commander Grace Jimenez's presence than they've been told?
Wind at Our Backs
"What do you mean we've been assigned a new crew member?" There was little doubt as to the Captain's surprise, the last thing he'd been expecting to hear from Admiral Forrest was that a new officer would be arriving within the next two days.
The Admiral wore a contrite look as he replied, "I know Jon, but the brass feels that she would give us a more even footing with the Vulcans."
"What kind of training does she have that would convince Starfleet to assign her with us, in hopes of leveling the playing field?"
Forrest skimmed through the pile of notes before him, "Well, she holds degrees in zoology and paleontology, she also has extensive experience in sociology, biology, not to mention..."
Archer waved a hand in exasperation as he responded, "All right, all right! I get the picture!"
"Be civil Jon, she's descended from the ancient peoples of the American Southwest, from what I hear
her behavior doesn't conform with the norm."
Archer sighed, he didn't like being put in the position of having to accept a new person without having at least an interview. From the Admiral's tone, he was keenly aware that he didn't have the option of refusing the lady either. He couldn't quite keep the sarcasm from his voice as he replied, "Thank you Admiral, as always, you've put a bit of excitement in my otherwise boring routine."
He closed the connection before slumping into his chair.
As the intercom beeped, he threw his head back against the chair, "Archer here."
"Captain?" It was his communications officer, there was a puzzled note as she said, "We've just received a transmission from Concourse Station sir, confirming the appointed collection of our new crewman. Sir?"
"That's correct Ensign, H.Q. feels we could benefit from the services she can provide. Please inform them we'll be arriving by 14:00 hour."
"Yes sir."
He straightened and shook his head as he rose, leaving his quarters with a broad gait to join the bridge crew.
Ensign Hoshi Sato sat at her station, she hadn't missed the irritation in the Captain's voice. Curious too, she hadn't been aware that they were in need of any specially trained personnel. Glancing over at science ops, she realized the futility of trying to glean any answers from the Sub-commander.
All heads turned as Captain Archer stormed out of the lift and onto the bridge, he paused before taking his seat.
"Ensign", he said to Mayweather, "Plot in a course for Concourse at warp 3 please.
"Aye sir." Came the immediate response.
After several minutes of silence, Lieutenant Reed finally asked, "Sir, begging your pardon, when were assigned a new officer?"
Turning to regard Malcolm with an enigmatic look, he sardonically said, "Why I received the notice of transfer all of 40 minutes ago Lieutenant. It was also made clear that the length of her tenure is indeterminate."
Reed was about to say something, when the calm even voice of their science officer interrupted him.
"Captain, exactly who are we bringing aboard, and what credentials does she hold that would recommend her an assignment here?"
Sitting back in his chair, his gaze on the star field ahead, answered, "We're picking up one Commander Grace T. Jimenez, who has numerous 'credentials', which Starfleet deemed good enough to warrant an irregular posting."
"I see sir."
"Since her extensive knowledge pertains to sciences, I've decided that she'll report directly to you."
A satisfied grin crossed his face as he angled his head to see T'Pol's startled look.
"May I enquire as to why?"
"Since she's so knowledgeable in a number of sciences, it's only logical place to assign her to, besides, you're the only one we have working that position, it might not be a bad idea to get you a little help."
The look she shot him said more than any words could, that she didn't feel she required any assistance. Privately, he still felt somewhat annoyed with H.Q.'s abrupt decision. He hadn't even seen her file yet, just a few notations the Admiral had transmitted during their briefing.
After several more minutes, he stood, pausing as he turned, "Hoshi, let me know when we arrive at Concourse Station will you? I'll be in my ready room if you need me."
"Yes sir."
There were apprehensive glances exchanged by several of the crew as Archer disappeared through the door.
At the sound of the entry chime, Jon muttered to himself, "Damn!", then louder, "Come in."
He watched T'Pol enter, noting some hesitance as she started, "You seem to somewhat displeased with Starfleet's orders. And if I might add, you appear to be taking it as an affront to your authority as well."
Lowering his gaze, he shook his head, "No, I'm taking it as an attempt on their part to rearrange my crew as they see fit!"
"I'm sure that wasn't their intent, sir."
Archer took a deep breath as he glared at her, managing to keep a level tone, "No? We'll see if you're correct. She's been allowed to bring any equipment that might pertain to assisting with her studies. As fate would have it, we just happen to have quarters spacious enough to fit the bill."
She briefly searched his face before giving a curt nod, "You are referring to crewman Daniel's room, are you not?"
"As a matter of fact, I am. So on your way out, tell Malcolm to assemble a team and have them go over the place with a fine toothed comb if they have to. I don't want her finding anything that could send her God only knows when. I wouldn't want to try and explain that to the Admiral."
With a final glance, T'Pol left without her usual ease.
"Dammit!" He ran a hand across his face, wondering why was it every time he got things back on track, something always turned up trying to derail it.
Now we is gonna see some sparks flying! The crew gets to meet their newest officer, and she's brought a few surprises with her! (He,he,he! Just keep reading, you see shortly.)
Part 2
Wind at Our Backs
They were on final approach to Concourse station, an old Taurus style ring station that had been placed within an area used by a great number of ships on a regular basis. It's main purpose was to serve as a way place for refueling, repairs, and replenishing of provisions, but there were also establishments that catered to those more basic need. That was why Captain Archer had only Mayweather and Commander Tucker go over in a shuttle to gather up their new associate and her gear.
Archer dutifully reported to the shuttle bay and awaited the arrival of Ms. Jimenez. The first impression he had was of a tall lean figure, dark hair shortly cropped. The dark brown eyes that met his were blazing with intense curiosity, a slight smile playing at the corners of her lips. She leaped down and confidently approached him.
"Captain Archer, I presume?"
Reaching out to shake the proffered hand, he made note of the firmness in the grip, "Yes Commander, welcome aboard Enterprise."
"The honors mine sir, thought at first Bob was kidding me."
"Well then, why don't we get you settled in first. I'm sure your anxious to take a look around."
"I certainly am. Oh, let me take that.", she said as Travis carried out a handled container. She held it gingerly, grasping the handle with both hands.
Captain Archer hefted some of the articles as well, and led her to her new quarters. Once the crates, sacks and luggage were secured, she assured them that she'd be delighted to join the senior staff at dinner. As he headed back to his own room, Archer went over his own reactions to Commander Jimenez.
I forgot Admiral Forrest said she was of Native American descent. It's obvious once you take in those facial features. Those large eyes framed in high cheek bones and pronounced nasal bridge sure remind me of archaic photos I've seen of her people.
Commander Grace Talani Jimenez sighed with noticeable relief as she slung her duffel bag haphazardly onto the floor, then flopped her statuesque frame across the bed. She leaped up as indignant, feline complaints began issuing from the carrier.
"Hang on Jake, I'm letting you out."
With a final "Mrtt", Jake burned her a look of pure loathing as he strolled past her, tail twitching while he inspected their new home.
"Well Mister meow head, what do you think?"
"Mroow!"
"Yeah, that's what I thought you'd say."
She leaned down and scooped him up, ignoring his "Mrpt", of protest. Scritching his chin, she stretched back on the bed and soon had him purring like a coffee mill. With a final pat, she got up, stripping on her way into the bathroom, and climbed in the shower as soon as she turned on the water.
Singing as she dried off, Grace was feeling much better and glad to finally be on board. She still was unclear as to why she had been chosen for this assignment, only being told her skills would serve her people well.
My people they say, Ha! My people were hunted like animals and sent far from their homes to die from sickness and disease. But this is where I had hoped to be, I will not question the powers that guided me here.
She rummaged through her clothes and found a uniform that was still presentable, she dressed and gave her hair a quick rub of the towel, then combed it. Happy, she hummed as she finished getting ready, she cheerfully said later to Jake and headed for ship's mess.