Naruto: Infinity Divide
Runaways
Blanket Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or Star Trek
AUTHOR'S NOTES:
This one wrote itself and flowed pretty smoothly. Here is Chapter 102, Enjoy!
Port = Left
Starboard = Right
[ ] Signifies a foreign language
{ } Signifies hand signs
~ ~ Signifies singing
…
Last time:
Acadia Minor III Orbit, U.S.S. Wolverine
Naruto was talking to Konohamaru via subspace. "They want nothing to do with the United Federation of Planets and wish to remain isolated." reported Sarutobi. "It's a shame but they don't wish to change the status quo."
"At least the meeting was a peaceful one, Commander." replied Naruto. "Not all first contacts are."
"We're headed towards the tunnel now Fleet Captain." said Kono. "We'll return to the ship shortly."
…
Acadia Minor III, New Gaia Colony
The away team was aboard their shuttlecraft heading back to the U.S.S. Wolverine. "I guess we'll have to chalk this one up as a loss team." said Konohamaru. "It's a shame but they don't want to be part of the larger galaxy. But, they have a right to their views."
"At least I was able to scan some new flora and fauna to catalog." said Ayasugi. "The science staff will be busy studying the New Gaia Colony ecosystem for some time."
…
Stardate 2298.120, Edge of Acadia Minor System, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine
The U.S.S. Wolverine and U.S.S. Bastian parted ways after they jointly completed mapping the surface of planet Acadia Minor III. The star system was simply labelled off limits as far as Starfleet was concerned. There were many other places to explore, and the small New Gaia Colony was happy to be left alone…
…
Chapter 102
Stardate 2298.122, Starbase 6, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine
The fast cruiser Wolverine docked at Starbase 6, Berth 7, for a resupply when a few new crewmembers came aboard. One of them was Lieutenant Junior Grade Portia Falkland. The young woman was tall and statuesque with dark blonde hair cut in a wavy bob. All in all, she was quite stunning.
…And poor Konohamaru was totally lovestruck when he saw her board the ship. He quickly stepped up and said, "I'm Commander Konohamaru Sarutobi, Lieutenant. Welcome aboard the U.S.S. Wolverine. I see you are in the Command Branch."
She smiled brilliantly. "I'm Portia Falkland, Commander. It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm part of the Starfleet Historical Division. My duty aboard is to write an account of Fleet Captain Naruto of Vulcan, the Think Tank, and their part in the General War. You don't know how excited I am to be here!"
The Executive Officer did his best not to deflate at her declaration. 'Great. She'll be interested in everyone but me…'
"The Wolverine is a historic vessel with an amazing record." stated Portia enthusiastically. "I can't wait to meet the crew." She held up her data tablet. "I have my transfer and mission orders here, Commander. I was told to report directly to Fleet Captain Naruto."
Sarutobi mentally sighed. "He should be on the bridge Lieutenant Falkland. I'll escort you there."
"Thank you, sir!" she said giddily. "I'm thrilled to be on the U.S.S. Wolverine at last."
"I'm sure you are." replied Konohamaru.
…
Captain's Ready Room
Naruto was speaking to Rear Admiral Arthur Van Hugen who was the head of Starfleet's Historical Division at Memory Alpha. The Vulcan wasn't sure what to make of the older man. The Admiral said, "I realize we've never met before Fleet Captain, but it is of vital importance that the U.S.S. Wolverine and her crew's histories are recorded for future generations. I'm sure you understand."
The blonde raised an eyebrow in his usual way and replied, "I thought that was what log entries were for, Admiral. Wouldn't it be more logical to consult them for an unbiased account?"
"Lieutenant Falkland and others have been diligently researching the log entries for years, Fleet Captain. There are gaps that need to be filled, and personal interviews hold the key to bringing the Wolverine's history to life." stated Van Hugen. "I can't emphasize how important individual histories are. It's a well-known fact you and your crew practically wrote the book on commerce raiding that paved the way for the other fast cruisers. You exploits are legendary."
"The Wolverine and her crew went through a lot during the war, Admiral." said Naruto. "There are many that want nothing more than to forget those days."
The old Admiral smiled. "And that's exactly why I'm calling you, Naruto of Vulcan. I want you to facilitate Lieutenant Portia Falkland in her efforts to capture the events that happened to your ship and crew during the General War. Naturally, it's going to be time consuming but trust me when I tell you that Falkland is a superb historian. She is very bright, and I think you will like her a great deal. She helped write Fleet Admiral Nogura's autobiography which I'm sure you've read."
Naruto grimaced mentally at the thought of the retired Fleet Admiral Nogura. "I was unaware he had an autobiography."
Arthur looked shocked. "The Fleet Admiral mentioned you several times in his biography. It really provides insight into his character. I think you would find it illuminating."
Quickly changing subjects, the Vulcan asked, "When is Lieutenant Falkland reporting aboard, Admiral?"
"She should be there at Starbase 6." said the older man. "Make sure to give her a warm welcome."
"We'll do our best Admiral Van Hugen." replied Naruto as he signed off. 'Just what the crew doesn't need, another distraction. We will just have to make the best of it.'
…
Bridge
Portia had stars in her eyes. "You are Lieutenant Rafi Meta of the Think Tank! Not only do you hold numerous doctorates and awards, it's also been claimed by many that you are the finest helmsman in the United Federation Starfleet!"
Rafi stared blankly from her seat at the starstruck historian and said, "Ummm…Yeah, I'm Rafi Meta…"
"This is simply amazing!" exclaimed the younger woman. "I can't wait to interview you. I'm Lieutenant Portia Falkland from the Starfleet Historical Division. It's an honor to meet you!"
Samui walked onto the bridge and saw Konohamaru with a rain cloud over his head and Rafi looking glazed at the exited historian. Frowning slightly, the Augment woman marched over and asked Falkland, "What's all this about, Lieutenant?"
Portia whirled around and saluted Samui before introducing herself and saying, "…And since you are all living legends, I'll be thrilled to interview each of you while I'm stationed aboard the U.S.S. Wolverine. This is going to be fantastic. I can just feel it!"
Samui's ice blue eyes were wide at Lieutenant Falkland's enthusiastic introduction. The blonde bombshell was at a loss at how to respond. Then Portia said, "Oh yes! I need to introduce myself to Fleet Captain Naruto and show him my orders. Can you direct me to him Commander Schrodinger?"
The Augment woman motioned towards the Captain's Ready Room and said, "Follow me."
…
Captain's Ready Room
The blonde Vulcan received a mental message from his wife Samui that said, 'Brace for impact.' just before she knocked on the door.
Naruto mentally groaned and said, "Enter." as Samui came in with the historian in tow.
"Allow me to present Lieutenant Portia Falkland from Starfleet's Historical Division at Memory Alpha." said the blonde bombshell. 'Good luck, Fleet Captain.' she added mentally.
Portia smiled happily as she saluted and said, "It's an honor to meet you Fleet Captain. I've come to present my orders and mission statement from Admiral Van Hugen. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to be aboard the U.S.S. Wolverine."
Naruto saw Samui dismiss herself leaving him with Falkland alone. The blonde Vulcan said, "Please be seated Lieutenant. I've spoken to Admiral Van Hugen, and I need to see your exact orders."
She quickly handed over her tablet and Naruto read the document in detail. He raised an eyebrow. "…So, there will be two main documents. One will cover the first three war cruises on the Klingon front and the yerkwak incident. The second will cover the cruises on the Romulan front up to the ship's decommissioning. You do realize we've had multiple Executive Officers during those times."
"Yes sir, I intend to interview them in order via subspace." she answered. "I'm thinking about the working title for the first book to be Nightstalker: The U.S.S. Wolverine's War on the Klingon Front. What do you think, sir?"
"I was unaware that the Klingons referred to me as Nightstalker for many years Lieutenant." replied the Fleet Captain.
…
Stardate 2298.126, Federation Space, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine
"Personal Log of Fleet Captain Naruto M'Fau, Stardate 2298.126. The addition of our new position of ship's historian has been met with mixed reactions. Lieutenant Falkland is both friendly and outgoing but at the same time her presence is an unneeded distraction to my crew and I."
…
Bridge
The Wolverine was skirting the Vren System which was inhabited by humanoid people that were just entering their space age with liquid fuel rockets. Technologically, they were close to the level Earth was at in the 1960 era. The Federation avoided entering the system due to the Prime Directive and the fact that there were multiple nation-states that seemed to be in a cold war.
This was why it was unusual to detect multiple subspace transmissions and warp capable craft zipping around the Vren System…
Alison Fairbanks was at the sensor station and said, "We are detecting seven warp signatures travelling at approximately warp one point four. One is heading directly towards us. Either they had a quantum leap in technology or someone else has interfered in the system's development. It was labeled as off limits to Federation vessels eight-five years ago."
Naruto frowned slightly and ordered, "All stop. They may have detected us and wish to make contact."
M'rella reported, "I'm receiving a transmission from the closest ship that is directly on course for us. It's an S.O.S."
"On screen M'rella." said the blonde Vulcan.
"It's audio only sir." replied the Caitian. "I'm trying to cut through the static."
They saw a small vessel on the screen that looked like an inverted vee racing towards them. It was dark green and had obviously been in combat. The ship was badly damaged.
"Transmission coming in." reported M'rella. "I'm piping it through."
They heard a female voice coming from the corvette sized vessel. There was a lot of interference, but it could be understood well enough. "This is the Vren Kh'ataa ship L-14. Our ship is failing, and we don't have much time left. Please help us!"
"This is the U.S.S. Wolverine of the United Federation of Planets." said Naruto. "How may we assist you?"
"We need to get off L-14 and away from the Vren Kh'ut Tyranny." answered the voice. "They mean to exterminate us! We may be the only ones left of our kind! Will you provide us with amnesty?"
Alison said, "Their warp core is unstable. They have forty-five minutes at most before L-14 explodes."
Naruto frowned and said, "The Wolverine will provide assistance L-14. Can you shut down your warp reactor before it detonates?"
"All the controls are fused Wolverine! We have no way of shutting it down. There are children on this ship!" said the female voice desperately.
"Inform transporter Chief Gaul we have an emergency beam out situation," ordered the Fleet Captain. "Tell Doctor Wilson we have incoming wounded."
"L-14, bring your ship alongside the Wolverine and we will help you evacuate."
Forty frantic minutes later, the L-14's warp core went critical, and she exploded in a ball of fire. The U.S.S. Wolverine extracted all 347 people off the stricken ship.
…
U.S.S. Wolverine, Sickbay
The medical staff had their hands full. Many of the passengers on the L-14 were malnourished and ill. Ino was speaking with their Elder. As it turned out, the Vren Kh'ataa were telepaths much like Betazoids. They had various shades of purple hair and pointed ears that stuck out horizontally rather than vertically like a Vulcans. They were also victims of attempted genocide…
"Sending these people back to the Planet Vren would mean certain death Captain." reported Ino over the comm. "They believe they are the last of their kind left."
"The other Vren ships are approaching." replied Naruto. "I will deal with them accordingly."
…
Bridge
"I'm in contact with the Vren ship L-4." said M'rella. "Their Captain wishes to speak with you."
Naruto nodded, "Pipe them through."
"This is Tyrant Drel of the Vren Tyranny ship, L-4. Who am I speaking to?" asked the Vren aggressively.
Naruto raised an eyebrow and replied. "This is Fleet Captain Naruto of the United Federation Starship, U.S.S. Wolverine. What can I do for you, Tyrant Drel?"
Drel stated, "The Vren Tyranny is hunting the Vren Kh'ataa which stole ship L-14. They are renegades and we demand that you turn any survivors over to us."
The Fleet Captain stroked his chin and said, "The L-14's warp core was going critical. There were no survivors aboard her when she exploded."
"This is a great day for the Vren Tyranny!" cheered Drel. "The last of the Vren Kh'aata are nothing but a page in the history books! Our world will celebrate this news!"
"We will leave you to your celebrations then, Tyrant Drel." stated the blonde Vulcan. "U.S.S. Wolverine out." He turned to Rafi and Samui. "Reverse course and get us out of here, warp factor four."
…
Sickbay
Counselor Ino Yamanaka was talking to the de facto leader of the Vren Kh'ataa, an elderly woman named Tash. "Up until forty years ago, the Vren Kh'ataa lived peacefully with the Vren Kh'ut. We were telepaths and pacifists by nature, so we stayed out of the territorial wars that took place. We were just considered different."
"But something changed." said Ino.
Elder Tash nodded. "The country called the Northern Confederacy came into contact with a group called the Pharoah Clan*① who started trading with them. The Pharoah Clan started exchanging technology and weapons for rare minerals and such… Suddenly the Northern Confederacy launched an offensive on the world and conquered it within a decade. The conquered nations were filled with civil strife and the Northern Confederacy declared a new order called the Vren Tyranny. They declared the Vren Kh'ataa as the root of the world's problems. It united the people through hatred, and they set about exterminating us systematically." She shed a tear. "…We are the only ones left after the genocide…"
…
Captain's Ready Room
The Fleet Captain was talking with Doctor Shelly Wilson and Counselor Yamanaka. Shelly said, "Despite the people's poor physical condition, there is no permanent damage. We've inoculated them all and treated them for injuries, but they need a safe place to settle and recover."
Ino said, "I suggest we contact my home world Betazed*②. These people are telepaths as well as pacifists so I believe they could start over there. The Vren Kh'ataa are very similar to the Betazoids in their philosophy as well."
…
Stardate 2298.140, Beta Veldonna System, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine
"Ship's Log, Stardate 2298.140. Fleet Captain Naruto M'Fau reporting. After contacting the Planet Betazed, their Matriarchy*③ agreed to interview the surviving Vren Kh'ataa about the possibility of settling there."
"In the meantime, I have been discussing with Starfleet Command what we should do about the Pharoah Clan of the Orion Pirates contacting the Vren to begin with. The Planet Vren's Society has been irrevocably contaminated by the pirates and taking direct action could make matters worse rather than better..."
…
Beta Veldonna System, Planet Betazed Orbit, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine
Ino was on the bridge speaking to one of the elected matriarchs of Betazed. Her name was Axsaka. She was a very stern, regal woman and said to Naruto, "We normally don't welcome ships-of-war like the U.S.S. Wolverine into our system, but we are making an exception because you are on a mission of mercy."
Then she turned her attention to Ino. "Counselor Yamanaka, have you assessed the character of the Vren Kh'ataa people?"
"They are much like the Betazoid in character and beliefs Lady Axsaka." said Ino. "On a world full of warring nation-states, they chose pacifism. Unfortunately, this led to their near extermination. I believe that they would not only find save haven on Betazed but would also contribute positively to our society there."
Lady Axsaka looked at the Counselor for a long while as if searching for something before she said, "I will speak with their Elder and you in person Yamanaka. Beam down to the Rixx*④ Great Hall of Adjuration in two standard hours and all of us will discuss this matter in detail."
Ino smiled widely and said, "You have our deepest gratitude, Lady Axsaka. I will inform Elder Tash of our protocols so she can present her case."
"See that you do, Counselor." said the older woman. "I will see you shortly."
The screen went blank, and the scenery returned to the beautiful Planet Betazed below. Ino said happily, "That went extraordinarily well. I never dreamed we would be taken directly to the Great Hall in Rixx."
"What is the Great Hall exactly?" asked Konohamaru.
"The Rixx Great Hall of Adjuration is where the Seven Elected Matriarchs meet to discuss matters they judge are of planetary importance. Then they debate and finally cast a vote upon it."
"Ah, democracy…" commented Thera Sorkalif. "It has its good and bad points. Perhaps this will work out in the Vren Kh'ataa's favor."
Naruto turned to Ino. "Do you need anyone to go with you Counselor?"
Ino grinned. "Elder Tash and I were the only ones invited, Fleet Captain. It would be in bad form to bring additional people."
The blonde Vulcan nodded. "I understand Ino. Best of luck."
"Thank you, Naruto." said Ino with a salute.
…
Planet Betazed, Rixx Great Hall of Adjuration
Ino and Tash beamed down outside the Great Hall in Rixx and Tash said, "What a beautiful world. It's nothing like my own. This is amazing!"
"I hope your people find a new home here Elder Tash." stated Ino sincerely. "Be aware that the questioning may seem harsh or even critical. Just answer truthfully and with dignity. Let's do our best."
The doors opened and the two travelers went in…
…
Planet Betazed Orbit, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine
Everyone aboard the Wolverine was waiting for Ino as no form of shore leave was granted for the time being. As strict as the Matriarch Axsaka had been, they weren't sure if shore leave would even be allowed.
Being the people they were, the members of the Think Tank immediately started studying Betazed in detail in case they actually did get some shore leave.
Maya Ayasugi was telling the bridge crew about the planet below. "Betazed is a remarkably lush, beautiful world, sometimes described as 'the jewel of the outer crown' by traders and other visitors. Its gravity and atmosphere are comparable to Earth, and water covers 78 percent of the planet's surface."
"What else?" asked Rafi curiously.
"Interesting…. The Betazoid sky is blue with pink clouds." said Maya. "There are five continents and hundreds of islands. Climatic zones range from tropical to arctic, with temperatures averaging 23 degrees Celsius in summer and 13 degrees in winter. Most of the time, the weather is calm and pleasant, but when atmospheric conditions shift, they do so at startling speeds. No weather-control technology is employed."
"No weather control?" asked Shizuka. "You'd think such an advanced world would employ it."
"As I understand it, Betazoids are naturalists in the extreme." commented Alison.
"That would be correct, Doctor Fairbanks." confirmed Ayasugi. "According to this, great expanses of natural wilderness cover much of the planet, varying from dense jungles to wide canyons and cliffs. Many of the major continents are dotted with lakes, and the planet is home to thousands of forms of native wildlife. There are also a lot of farmlands and cities that are devoted to philosophical studies."
"Sounds heavenly." said Shar. "Hopefully we will be able to experience it firsthand."
…
Planet Betazed, Rixx Great Hall of Adjuration
The last four hours had been very taxing for Counselor Ino Yamanaka and Elder Tash of Vren. However, after a great deal of brutal debating, it was decided that the 347 Vren Kh'ataa would be welcomed to resettle on Betazed. Tash was thrilled and Ino was immensely relieved.
Ino got out her communicator and said, "Yamanaka to Wolverine. Come in, Wolverine."
M'rella's purring voice came over the communicator. "Wolverine here. We read you loud and clear, Counselor. Did you find out anything?"
The blonde Betazoid smiled. "We met with success, M'rella! I'm happy to report the Vren Kh'ataa will have a new home here on Betazed. It is being discussed as to exactly where they will settle. Elder Tash is eager to share this with her people. I have two to beam up."
…
Stardate 2298.147, Planet Betazed Orbit, NCC-1602 U.S.S. Wolverine, Captain's Ready Room
"Ship's Log, Stardate 2298.147. Fleet Captain Naruto M'Fau reporting. We have beamed down the last of the Vren Kh'ataa to the Betazed city of Dekoa which is considered a place of healing. The hospitals there will help the people of Vren make a full recovery both physically and mentally. It is a fortunate conclusion to an otherwise doomed voyage of the Vren ship L-14."
"Starfleet hasn't made a decision about the Pharoah Clan Pirate Cartel that is in contact with the Vren Tyranny Government. It is clear that the situation is already volatile, and a Federation incursion might make matters worse. The best thing we can do at this point is monitor the situation and try to eliminate the pirates in the area…"
…
After completing his log entry, Naruto heard a knock on his Ready Room door and said, "Enter."
Portia Falkland came in and asked, "May I have a moment of your time Fleet Captain?"
The Vulcan nodded and said, "Be seated Lieutenant. How may I help you?"
She said, "Thank you sir. I have been observing your crew and the dynamics of the way they work for my book. I am amazed at their performance and synergy. To be honest I've been on several ships, and I've never seen anything comparable."
The Fleet Captain looked at her and asked, "…And your point is…?"
"They are all so busy with projects both on and off duty that they have no time for interviews!" fretted the historian. "They're all geniuses and all of them are still furthering their learning. How many doctorates does one need to be satisfied?"
Naruto replied, "The Think Tank's thirst for knowledge is unquenchable Lieutenant Falkland. I believe your question would best be directed at Counselor Yamanaka now that the Vren Kh'ataa situation has been resolved. She can put things in perspective for you better than I can."
…
Counselor Yamanaka's Office
Ino was tidying up her workspace a bit when Lieutenant Falkland knocked on her transparent door. Motioning the historian to come in, Ino smiled and questioned, "What's troubling you Lieutenant? I can sense you are a bit stressed. Do you feel like talking about it?"
Portia asked, "You know I'm supposed to be writing this ship's history, correct?" Seeing Ino nod, she said, "The crew is too busy studying to sit down for an interview. They are always, always busy! I asked the Fleet Captain about it, and he sent me to you. I'm at a loss. Most people like to tell their stories. The Think Tank seems to avoid it. What should I do?"
The sassy blonde smiled. "The Think Tank is made up of quirky, eccentric, genius introverts. They are more like a big family than a group of officers. I'm sure you've noticed the massive amount of nonverbal communication among them?"
Portia gave a nod and Ino continued. "They have a huge amount of implicit trust among them. You've just come aboard, and they don't know you yet. It's simply going to take time. Try talking to Lieutenant Edgar Shores in Security for an interview. He's a normal guy and has known them since before the General War started. It could open some doors for you."
…
Portia looked up the 51-year-old Lieutenant Shores and asked him if he had time for an interview about the U.S.S. Wolverine's history. Edgar had only met Portia in passing but thought the young historian seemed very nice (not to mention beautiful). He got a kick out of the idea of being interviewed and agreed to meet her in the Officer's Mess to talk over chow.
Edgar said, "I've known the Think Tank since the Battle of the Void Asteroid Belt*⑤. Have you ever heard of it?"
Portia's eyes goggled. "Heard of it?! It's required reading at the Starfleet Academy. Are you actually saying you were there?!"
Shores grinned. "You bet I was. I didn't think we stood a chance in hell, but they all proved me wrong…"
…
"…And the Romulan War Eagle R.I.S. Shikra was blown to smitherines in that trap the kids set. I was shocked to be alive, let alone in one piece. It was one hell of a ride." finished Edgar.
"Wow." said Portia. "I've never had a chance to interview someone about the Battle at Void. I wonder if I could use this in my book."
Shores chuckled. "It's been a few years, but I'll never forget it. That was when the Think Tank really came into their own…"
…The pair ended up talking for hours.
…
Lieutenant Portia Falkland's Quarters
"Personal Log of Lieutenant Portia Falkland, Stardate 2298.148. Lieutenant Edgar Shores candor about the Think Tank and their Battle of the Void Asteroid Belt really opened my eyes. I had no idea just how cunning and brilliant the Think Tank was even as junior officers. I want to interview them starting with the bridge crew as an introduction to my book."
"I was fascinated by the Battle at Void as a cadet but hearing a firsthand account really excited me. I'm going to reread the battle reports and then talk to Lieutenant Rafi Meta and Lieutenant Commander Samui Schrodinger about it. I can't wait to get started!"
…
Bridge
Early the next morning, the crew of the U.S.S. Wolverine was disappointed to hear that they were not only not going to get shore leave, but they were also ordered to return to Starbase 6 to resupply (again).
After Konohamaru made the customary morning log entry, he saw Naruto stride onto the bridge with a tiny frown on his face. The Fleet Captain said, "Konohamaru, you are with me. Samui, you have the bridge."
Naruto led his First Officer into his ready room and said, "Kono, after we resupply at Starbase 6, we are going pirate hunting."
Sarutobi asked, "Are we heading up a task force?"
The blonde Vulcan shook his head. "That's what Starfleet suggested but I rejected the idea. It was too obvious a move."
"You rejected a Starfleet order sir?" asked Konohamaru in a worried tone.
The Fleet Captain gave one of his extremely rare, fanged, bone chilling smiles. "We're going to put this cloaking device to work, Kono."
The Exec smiled. "You want to follow them back to their base and destroy them at the source."
"Precisely Commander." replied Naruto. "I knew you would catch on quickly."
…
POSTSCRIPT:
*①: Pharoah Clan -This is an Orion Pirate cartel.
*②: Betazed -This is the Betazoid home world. Some sources listed the home world as the Betazoid Colony Haven where Ino Yamanaka grew up.
*③: Matriarchy -The Betazoid government is noted as a matriarchy in TNG but is unfortunately not named. The ceremonial ruling family is the Fifth House of Betazed. See Memory Beta.
*④: Rixx -It is the Capital City of Planet Betazed. See Memory Beta.
*⑤: See chapter 48.
This installment is transitional, but I enjoyed it. We also got to see a new member of the crew. I doubt there will be another chapter before 2025, but never say never. See you next time. Blue out. 12/22/24
