Posted by Captain Alexander Cochrane (Commanding Officer) in Stabilizing Common Ground

It had been several days since her meeting with Alex Cochrane. It bothered her that they seemed to be at odds with each other. Especially since they were both after the same thing. In the end Cochrane had at least somewhat agreed to let her try, to judge her by her actions. There was…something else there. Revna knew it without a shadow of a doubt. Problem was she wasn’t a ship’s counselor anymore and she couldn’t make him tell her.

Then there was that strange meeting with his mother and sister. She hadn’t been trying to intrude on his time with family. Infact she hadn’t known that’s who it was. She was just relaying a personal message from the Ambassador. There was something there too. And she’d eat her rune beads if the issues weren’t two different things. His sister knew too - twins. They always knew.

But he had offered to meet again if time allowed. She hated to take time away from Mike. She’d be gone soon, but she also needed to try and figure this out. If she couldn’t stabilize their working partnership then Revna had no business being on his ship. It was better to find out now, rather than later and the man throw her in the brig or out an airlock. So she sent a message to Cochrane asking him if he had time to meet her again. That she didn’t wish to interrupt his time with his sister and mother, but if he was able she’d like to meet with him again before the Manhattan left the station.
McKenzie, DA

A message came through about thirty minutes later for Revna to meet him in the Officer’s Mess on the ship at 1300 station time.

Cochrane arrived in the mess at 1245 and took his usual seat at his usual table. A PaDD lay at his right elbow and he was reading something as the hour chime dinged in the empty Mess.

Cochrane, CO

Revna confirmed the time, and at 1230, PaDD in hand she left for the Manhattan. There was some awkward walking partners along the way wanting to know if she was the woman with Big Mike in the vid. That took some interesting verbal sparing to avoid and keep walking to get to the Manhattan on time. There was a delay as the security officer at the dock confirmed her identity and the fact she really was part of the crew. Then was the matter of finding the mess. Revna had a decent sense of direction, but was unfamiliar with the layout so it took her a few minutes. That didn’t make her late though. She walked up to the door at exactly 1259 and walked through the door. She spotted Cochrane and walked over to the table. Just as the chime rang, “Good afternoon , Captain Cochrane.”
McKenzie, DA

Cochrane rose from his chair and smiled, holding out his hand. “Mrs. McKenzie. Good to see you again. Please, have a seat. I was happy to hear from you.”

Revna shook the offered hand and then took the offered seat. “It is good to see you as well Captain. Thank you for making the time to see me. Have you been able to spend much time with your family?”

As they say, Cochrane said “I feel I must apologize for our first few interactions. I was dealing with a… significant personal matter… at that was very distracting. I apologize if I seemed aloof or uncooperative. So what brings us together today? Oh, and if I may… you will want to try Chef’s seafood chowder. I’m not kidding when I say it will be the best thing you will have had to eat almost anywhere.”

Cochrane, CO

Revna waved away the apology. “I believe captain we both carried quite a bit of ‘extra’ with us those meetings. You, your significant personal matter, and I, my own personal matters. As well as trying to find my feet from fleet to civilian service. And that is what brought me to request another meeting.” Honesty, plain and open. It always served her well in the past and she didn’t see any reason to change that now. “I really would like for us to at least have a better understanding of each other before Manhattan ships out again. And as for the seafood chowder, I would be thrilled. It has been a very long time since I’ve had any even resembling decent.”
McKenzie, DA

“Indeed. Water under the bridge, then. And I am always a fan of understanding. So… lay it all on the table. What do I need to understand, and what do you want to understand from me?” At that moment, the doors to the kitchen swung open and a Bajoran man came out with an earthenware crock in each hand and board with dark, freshly baked bread on it. He set a crock in front of the new Diplomat and then one in front of Cochrane. The bread went in the middle and he nodded at the Captain and looked at Revna. “Chef Harv, a pleasure. You must be that woman from the vid thats going around.” and Cochrane cleared his throat loudly and said “Chef, this is Mrs. Revna McKenzie, out new Diplomatic Attache.” Harv smiled at her and said “Yep… and the woman from the vid. Nice to have you with us. Bring Big Mike in sometime, will ya?” and he nodded once and then left back into the kitchen. Alex looked at her and said “Vid? Am I missing something?” with a smile.

Cochrane, CO

Revna gave his question some thought, what did he need to understand about her? She opened her mouth to answer when she was stopped by the presentation of food. And it smelled devine! She turned her attention to the man and offered her hand, “It’s a pleas....” Oh wow, the vid, that thing really got around…She should probably be glad....no better not think it into existence. “I will certainly ask him next time I see him.” Oh wow....this was out of her league, how did Mike deal with this all the time. She had a feeling Mardusk had a lot to do with keeping the crazies under wraps on Atlantis because 1 she didn’t think the entire crew was as oblivious to ‘famousness’ as she was and 2 no incidents of crazy fans were reported to her. She turned her gaze back towards Cochrane, cheeks red but not flaming. “I doubt you miss much captain. But yes a vid of me and my husband. From the Eclipse bar.” She dropped her voice as if sharing a huge secret, poking fun at herself, “See, in case you missed it, apparently my husband is rather famous. And I had no idea he was here, and I was rather elated to be in his presence again. I understand the vid is rather....wide spread now.”
McKenzie, DA

Cochrane chuckled. “Mrs. McKenzie… my tastes in music lie in much different genres than that your husband is famous for… and even I know who he is.” and he laughed in a good-natured manner. “I certainly hope this isn’t indicative of the observational skills you use in your professional life!” and he laughed again.

Cochrane, CO

Revna laughed, she could laugh, over it. “No it is not and I am rather put out with myself over it.” She tried a bit of the chowder, her eyes widening in happy surprise. She sipped her water and the patted her mouth with a napkin. “Now, I knew the song FedSec Fascists of course and the band Government Kills was responsible for it, but names of singers, actors, famous sports players has never been trivia that interests me, unless it was information I needed to do my work. Maybe if I hadn’t avoided his bar like the plague, I would have realized it, but I just knew him as Mike the bartender.” But that was the thing wasn’t it. Something she was still working on after her injury, a break down in her self esteem and certainty to do her job. Finding a new path and all that entailed. Maybe she would have realized sooner who Mike was, maybe not…”But honestly, Cpt I wouldn’t change not knowing. He knows I love him for him and not his fame or his money, just him. But getting to hear him sing any time I want is a perk to our marriage.”
McKenzie, DA

“Sometimes it is best to learn about people slowly. It can help avoid the misunderstandings and preconceptions that so often accompany becoming familiar with someone quickly.” He ate a bite of the chowder and nodded appreciatively. “I don’t know how, and I’ve stopped trying to figure it out, but Chef makes this every day, and it’s always perfect.” He tore off a piece of bread and then said “So… now that we have your obliviousness to your husband’s true celebrity settled; what else did you wish to talk about?”

Cochrane, CO

“Well returning to your first question of what we should know about each other. And then, well after our last talk and my previous talk with Ambassador S’Tek I get the impression that how I go about fulfilling my duties, within the parameters, duty, an security of the ship, is fluid. So I was thinking that perhaps I could tell you how I see that and then you tell me what is and is not realistic?” Revna took a piece of the bread and tucked into the chowder with a smile. “Reminds me of home.”
McKenzie DA

“The odd part of you saying that? That is what everyone says the first time they try it. No matter where they are from.” Cochrane said softly. “And I think that is a fine idea. And yes, I think ‘fluid’ is a most apt term to use. So please… you tell me how you see this working, I’ll tell you how I do, and maybe we can sort out what common ground we have to work with. Oh, and dip the bread… trust me.” and he grinned and winked.

Cochrane, CO

Revna tasted another bite. “It’s not just like home, each piece is unique and something I’ve not tasted before, except the brine, the salt water in it. That reminds me of home. I imagine there is something for each person in here.” Then she dipped the bread in and tried it. “Mmmm” she finished the bite. “Everything is better when dipped with bread.”

“So I say this knowing that there are already limitations in place for security of the ship and the fact that I’m civilian now, which is taking more adjustment than I anticipated. I would like to be present whenever possible for any contact, first or second or so on, with any species, even as just an observer. If being present is not possible I would like to be able to watch from another location or baring that watch the replays. Actually I would like that anyway. Sometimes we miss things, subtle clues and tells from people so being able to go back and watch is useful. And along those lines I would like to be part of the discussions as to how to proceed, again even if just an observer. I have the files on all the species we’ve encountered, but we both know that fleet files are different from civilian files. If possible, and I know it is highly unlikely, if there is something that could make a significant difference in how I should proceed, I would ask you share that with me, if you are able. You are an accomplished diplomat yourself, and though this isn’t my first go round, I come from a counseling background. I would be extremely ill fit for this position if I didn’t attempt to learn all I can from you. You’ve been out here a lot longer than I have. So in that vein I would like to meet you with you to go over any plans I make before following them through. At least for a little while. I’m sure there are other things that will come to mind, but at the moment, in a nutshell, I would like to advise you and you to advise me as the situation dictates.”
McKenzie, DA

Cochrane listened intently as she spoke. Nothing she was requesting was too far out of bounds, but previous experiences with the Diplomatic Corps did leave some room for skepticism in his mind. When she finished, Cochrane thought for a moment before responding.

“I see no real issue with your objectives, Mrs. McKenzie. In fact many of those very things were what was discussed when I first broached the idea of having a Diplomat assigned to the ship. And I would not be overly concerned with your civilian status. We have hundreds of civilians on board working in various roles and capacities. Also, this isn’t a warship… it’s a science vessel. So many of the necessary compartmentalizations that exist on a more tactical vessel do not work well here. You will have access to the bridge and conference rooms and the like. I would appreciate your presence in person when we encounter anyone, let alone first contact scenarios. That being said… rules and regulation are quite specific on what is to be done in a first contact role. In a situation like that, I will expect you to act as an advisor of course, but keep in mind that Star Fleet… not Diplomatic Corps… rules are the priority. Is that acceptable to you?”

Cochrane, CO

Revna nodded, not answering right away, rather savoring the chowder for a moment. “It is, Captain. Before I joined the diplomatic corp, as I’m sure you are aware, I severed Star Fleet, proudly for many years. Now I don’t know about the previous attachés you’ve had on board, but I am familiar with the first contact protocols, the reasons for them, and the success rate of having and adhering to those protocols.” And of course that meant both strict and flexible adherence but Revna was not experienced enough to decide how to proceed either way, but she learned fast. “But familiarity is as far as my expertise goes there, and perhaps I’m still a bit loyal to the Fleet, but I think we can both agree that in such a situation the Manhattan’s mission would best be served with me as an advisor. Though that won’t mean I always will agree, but I will support whatever decision you make.”

“Fair enough. I think we can both work with that.” Cochrane replied and inclined his head towards her in agreement.

She reached down to the floor where she had set a bag previously and set it on the table. “From my father’s meadery. It’s a lighter vintage, excellent for beginners.” She dipped the bread again and then washed down with her glass of water. “So who’s the older twin? In my case, it’s me.”
McKenzie, DA

Cochrane chuckled and said “My sister… by all of a minute and forty-five seconds. But you would think that was years the way she acts sometimes. And thank you. Mead isn’t something I am all too familiar with. But I have heard nothing but good things about the Edman meadery. I look forward to trying it. Do you have other siblings?” he asked as he took a bite of chowder-soaked bread.

Cochrane, CO

Revna chuckled, “58 seconds. According to my sister that means we were born in the same minute so I can’t really claim to be older. But she’s all too eager to give over responsibility to me when she doesn’t want to deal with it. This vintage was made with wild flower honey, so very sweet, but tempered by the floral undertones, so the kickback won’t surprise you. If you aren’t familiar with it, fermented honey has a smooth thick flavor, but the alcohol sneaks up on you. This one has a lower alcohol per volume limit. If you like it I am happy to get you more. I have one other sister, younger by 6 years. She works with my father and uncle in the meadery. We all have, but she actually has a degree in it. She helped my uncle develop a liquor based on our mead. I’ve heard it is very very good. I’m hoping the bottle she sent catches up with me before we ship out.” Revna finished the chowder and then mopped up the rest with the bread. “What was it like having a famous poet for a mother? I imagine that fame on Vulcan is very different from Earth.”
McKenzie, DA

“I would imagine it’s much like having a famous husband… although I imagine the Vulcan poetry groupies are a slightly more tame species than punk rock musician ones.” and he chuckled. “We don’t go out just to go out much. So we spend a lot of time at home together, especially when we all manage to be home at the same time… which is really rare.” and a thought occurred to him. “Oh… my… I just realised I haven’t been home in over five years…” and his eyes looked far away for a moment before he shook his head and said “Sometimes… the stars can be a harsh mistress.” and he shrugged.

Cochrane, CO

Revna grinned, “So I’m finding. It’s rather surreal though. I was stopped several times on my way here because of that vid.” Not going out wasn’t really an option for Mike and her. Not when considering both clans and their responsibilities there. And that was something they were going to have to decide on. She watched Cochrane in his moment of introspection, “Aye they are. I visited home for a day while I was on Earth for ‘orientation’ for the diplomatic corp. Visited home for a day. Then before that was…oh five or six years. Take it from someone who knows first hand how quickly time can be taken from you, make time, captain, whenever you can.” There was a wealth of genuineness and truth to her statement. It took in his responsibilities and the serious of that commitment but also the price that was demanded. “But sometimes, home comes to you in the most unexpected ways. For instance, my last posting, my twin sister was actually assigned there, and a very very dear friend, dear family, family made by choice, were on board. We take those blessings as they come.”
McKenzie, DA

“I have been on starships most of my life. I know all too well the rarity of such blessings, Mrs. McKenzie.” and he took a drink. “So… logistically and materialistically… what do you see as being needed to perform your duties to the best of your abilities? I’d prefer to work up a list now, while we are docked, so that we don’t have to tray and get anything moved out to us. I’m sure you understand.”

Cochrane, CO

“Logistically, access to quarters for dignitaries, Mess access for formal dinners, is there anyone who could work as a type of catering staff to provide food and drink during meetings, storage space. Probably a question for your CoS but is it safe to assume there are security officers trained in honor guard duty? And an office or a designated conference room. Not every situation calls for a formal event, but I’m sure you can understand that conducting such meetings in my personal quarters is not ideal. And a designated space will allow me to keep it prepared with only minor changes being necessary normally. Materials, most that I can think of are provided by the diplomatic Corp, which should arrive tomorrow. But food, fresh food. I am not sure how much Manhattan grows on board, but fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meat in stasis, especially ones native to the delta quadrant. I have a myriad of items to give as gifts, but if you know of specific types of items cultures you’ve encountered would appreciate more I can make adjustments before we leave. Oh and local flora. I can put a mix in the conference rooms and quarters.”
McKenzie, DA

Cochrane listened and nodded at most items. When she finished he said “Your quarters and your office are in the VIP quarters section on Deck 4. Mess access can be arrainged as necessary. Fresh food can be an issue, but we will assist as we can. A good portion of the time I would suggest reminding your guests that this is a scientific and exploratory vessel, not a fine dining establishment. That isn’t to say that we won’t provide such… but I would caution against testing Chef Harv with regards to expecting fresh ingredients at the drop of a hat. The man is a wonder with all fare, so don’t think that just because it is replicated that he can’t make it taste exquisite.”

Cochrane, CO

Revna nodded, “The request is absolutely not a judgement on Chef Harv’s talent or skill. If this chowder is all I have to go on, he’s quite the find for you. The request is more of a precaution, Cpt. There are species that see replicated food as taboo. So in the event that we should encounter a species with such cultural requirements logistically I would rather have a selection of such things in stasis for if they are needed, rather than regularly used. If we can’t accommodate I will cross that bridge then.” She sipped at her water while she thought. She couldn’t think of anything else, at the moment, unless the supplies from the corp were missing things. It was also too bad she wouldn’t get to experience more of Harv’s cooking. Hopefully she wouldn’t have to bother the man too often. Cooking for the officers on a daily basis was quite the undertaking.
McKenzie, DA

Alex smiled slightly and said “Didn’t take it as judgment. It was more of a… warning… than anything else. And while I certainly understand your desire for food in stasis, I can’t commit that amount of power to a ‘what if’ scenario. So I suppose you and I will burn that particular bridge when we get to it. Otherwise, talk with Harv. The man is almost irritating with his ability to find ingredients.” and he took a drink. “Now, you are allowed to dine in the Mess with the ship’s officers. Part of the arraignment with the Ambassador is that you are considered a Department Head for purposes of information dissemination and access. And since you have access here, you can bring up to two guests per week. That can of course be amended for diplomatic purposes. So small dinners should pose no problems. It will be the larger conferences that will require a more cooperative approach. And we will, of course, have a security presence at all of those. Is that acceptable?”

Cochrane, CO

Revna knew it was a long shot and for small amounts small self sufficient stasis boxes could be used, but for a large party it wouldn’t be enough. And she certainly understood the need to not waste ship’s power resources on such a thing. A small grin crossed her face, “Consider me properly warned. Though I learned a long time ago chefs and bartenders don’t like their territories encroached upon. I shall tread lightly and respectfully.” I shall learn from my sister’s mistake. That reminded her, she still had to get out of Mike exactly why he needed a dress… She nodded making mental note of the information, “More than acceptable Captain, thank you.” She didn’t want to take up too much of his time, but the hour wasn’t quite up yet. “Tell me captain, what is the most unique encounter you’ve had so far?”
McKenzie, DA