TannaLanvin

Tanna glanced at the small clock on the night table. She had to meet with the Ambassador and Captain Nurani in about twenty minutes and she knew it would not go well. She had returned from the lab less than an hour earlier. Since then, she had been seated at the small desk in her quarters where she had played and replayed the data chip given to her by Captain Ayers. At first, she all but dismissed it as a bizarre piece of fiction. But during the fifth or sixth viewing, she began to suspect there might be some truth to what Ayers had told them. The possibility frightened her even more than the experimental drug she had been given while in the lab. The newly created vaccine was only a temporary solution to Rixian Syndrome but at least it offered her people an element of hope. On the other hand, the information contained on the tiny data chip might very well result in the disintegration of the entire Rixian civilization. She watched in macabre horror as the picture unfolded. Two humanoid males, both young, wander through a large, well designed city. The architecture is different yet, somehow familiar to Tanna....far more familiar than anything she had seen on Aegis. The two start their journey in a public park. In spite of its overgrown condition, she can't help but notice the park is designed much like those in her hometown. The framed sidewalks remind her of Elders Park in the center of the capital city, one of the oldest, continuous parks on all of Rixis. There is only one thing missing. Elders Park is always crowded with people. The park these two humanoids walked through was eerily deserted. She watched intently as they move on into the city proper. Passing building after building, they finally stop in front of one particular structure. Tanna instinctively knows what it is. For some, inexplicable reason, she is able to translate part of the sign. Again, she had never seen the words before but they were definitely familiar. It was a large medical facility. One of the males, the one called Kelain, bounds up the steps to the entrance and pulls at the door...a door that should have opened automatically. At that point, Tanna realized there was no power in this city. That might explain why there were no people. Or, perhaps it was the other way around. The city was abandoned therefore there was no one to man the power stations. The other man, Eoerin, doesn't want to go inside. He grabs the arm of his colleague and they exchange angry words. Kelain wins out and the two step inside to record a truly gruesome sight. Tanna was taken aback by the images of hundreds of dead bodies in various stages of decomposition. They laid everywhere....some in the beds lining the corridor....some sitting with their backs against the walls....but most, stacked haphazardly on the floor as though left were they fell. They had come to the facility seeking help but instead of healing them, this hospital offered them nothing more than a place to die. The male called Kelain approached one of the victims. Again, his colleague attempted to stop him but Kelain persisted. Tanna got a close look at the deceased man. Though he had been dead for at least five days, she could easily discern the twisted expression on his face. He died in pain....gut wrenching, agonizing pain. This too, was familiar. She had seen such contorted expressions on the faces of the earliest victims of Rixian Syndrome. Tanna put that thought out of her mind. There were many diseases that caused painful deaths. There was no reason to believe these hapless people died from anything remotely similar to Rixian Syndrome. Kelain moved closer to the dead man. He reverently reached down and closed the victim's eyes. That was when Tanna first noticed it. The skin was mottled due to decomposition but her trained eye had no problem discerning the color. These people were gray skinned, almost blue, not quite as dark her own people but close enough to take Tanna's breath away. And the hair was also familiar. It was a rich brownish red. Hair color on Rixis ranged from dark, rose pink to bright red but most Rixian children were born with hair very similar in color to that on the deceased man Kelain so carefully documented. Tanna replayed the data over and over again, studiously examining as many of the deceased as she could. No matter how desperately she tried, there was no denying the truth. The facial features, the similar skin tone and hair color all pointed to one undeniable fact. These dead men, women and children looked very much like modern day Rixians. During the fourth viewing, Tanna forced herself to carefully listen to the conversations between Kelain and his friend, Eoerin. They were not supposed to be on this unnamed world. It was apparent Kelain was the one who wanted to go there so he could document the extinction of the planet's inhabitants. Eoerin appeared to be a reluctant companion and he was far less sympathetic. It was Eoerin who reminded his friend that "they would not listen." As the exchange continued, Tanna realized this now extinct race had asked for help. For some reason, they rejected the assistance they were offered....a decision that ultimately proved fatal. "He called them the Tr'iexia," whispered Tanna to the empty room. "Could they have been the Trxia....the Ancient Ones?" Dr. Lanvin dropped her head into her hands. She felt flushed yet she shivered as a chill washed over her. She wanted to believe her sudden discomfort was a side effect from the new vaccine but she couldn't be sure of that. She was certain of one thing. The lump in her throat and the knot in her stomach had nothing to do with the medication or the disease she was being treated for. The gruesome data on the tiny chip from Captain Ayers was responsible for that. She glanced at the clock once again. It was almost time for her to meet with her colleagues. She shook her head and forced herself to stand. She could only imagine what they would say when they saw the data. She was fairly certain this would not go well.

Once again, Tanna found herself in the control tower. But this time, she wasn't the only Rixian present. Her entire delegation had been ordered to report. And so they did. Tanna and the Ambassador arrived with their respective 'escorts.' However, Captain Nurani was accompanied by an impressive entourage of security officers. It was obvious by the expression on his face, as well as the presence of so many security personnel, that something was wrong. She could only imagine what that might be. Tanna slowly closed her eyes and leaned against the wall beside the lift. She was exhausted. She'd lost track of how long she had been working in Aegis's medical bay helping the Federation staff treat their wounded. She knew it had been several hours at least. But she felt like it had been days since she slept or ate. Tanna feared the worst as far as the research was concerned. In spite of reassurances from Captain Ayers and others, Tanna couldn't escape the sinking feeling that more pressing issues would prevent any further research on Rixian Syndrome. And Captain Nurani's attitude toward the Federation certainly wasn't helping any. She opened her eyes and surveyed the controlled chaos surrounding her. Tanna heard bits and pieces of conversations but paid little attention to them. It didn't matter that martial law had been declared on Cardassia or that a fleet of Federation ships had passed by the station. She could have cared less that three Dominion warships had just popped out of nowhere. Tanna was too wrapped up in her own misery to care about much of anything. There was a time when she would have been able to work for days without food and only minimal sleep. That was the norm on Rixis. One of the many perks of genetic engineering. But six months earlier, Tanna noticed she was tiring more easily. At first, she ignored it. Several weeks later, her decreased stamina became more noticeable and she had to face an ugly possibility. Tanna was a research physician at one of the most prestigious scientific facilities on Rixis. She had easy access to everything she needed to test herself privately. She also had access to the various medications used to treat the early stages of her illness. By the time Tanna diagnosed herself, she had already been appointed to the Rixian delegation that would visit the Federation space station. She was never asked about her health when she interviewed for the post and she chose not to mention it after the fact. No one, not even her parents, knew the truth and she had hoped there would never be a reason to reveal it. Tanna continued leaning against the wall, watching and half listening to what was going on around her. As soon as this meeting was over, she would return to her quarters, take her medication and sleep for a few hours. She would feel much better then, physically and emotionally. Glancing quickly at the Ambassador and then at Captain Nurani, she offered a silent prayer to the Ancients that she could maintain her ruse until after they were safely back on Rixis. She didn't bother praying for a cure. Tanna was now convinced there wouldn't be one, at least not anytime soon. "What a fool," she whispered quietly. "Why did I ever believe we would find a cure in time. Why did I put so much faith in this Federation?" The answer came to her immediately. She had to trust the Federation because there was no one else they could turn to for help. And she had to believe there would be a cure. To think otherwise would be to despair. Tears stung her eyes. "Despair," thought Tanna. "I always wondered what it felt like. Now I know." There was no time to ponder the misery of her newly realized despair. The Rixian delegation was summoned into another room to meet with the Andorian admiral. Tanna quickly pulled herself together and followed the others into the room. She smiled slightly at the sight of Admiral Meve. His skin was such a gorgeous shade of blue. She made a mental note to look into engineering such a skin tone into the Rixian DNA code. She was certain it would become a very popular choice. By the time she entered the room, Tanna felt her spirits lifting a bit. Her smile soon faded once the doors closed behind them. Almost immediately, Captain Nurani launched into a belligerent tirade about access to his ship. Tanna slowly moved to a nearby chair and sat down. She again closed her eyes and tried to block out the sounds of the angry voices all around her. "There will be no further research," she thought sadly, sinking deeper into that black pit called despair. "Especially after this."

A joint log by Nick Lepage and Tanna Lanvin. She looked around the crowded Sickbay, patients lay everywhere including the floor. "Federation politics are more complicated than I ever dreamed possible," she mumbled sadly. "You have your own survival to worry about." Nick could only guess at the disappointment Dr. Lanvin must be feeling. He started to understand her a bit more. From what he could gather from her words, she belonged to a minority who would want more contact with other species. Now the attack on Aegis jeopardized everything she had hoped for, the possible cure for the syndrome as well as any chance of further contact with the Federation. He smiled. "Federation politics are complicated and that's why I never think about it more than I have to. I am a doctor and, though I do not know what Captain Ayers thinks, I am confident we will be able to resume research as soon as the worst is over." Tanna nodded slightly. "Captain Ayers assured me the research would continue," she said. "It is comforting that you have now expressed a similiar sentiment. Perhaps my fears are unjustified." She paused again and considered how to phrase her next remark. "I have never been exposed to a situation such a this," she began, keeping her voice low. "There have been catestrophies on Rixis, but they are usually the result of natural disasters or unfortunate accidents. This is my first experience dealing with death and destruction at the hands of...." she stopped abruptly, not knowing what term to use. "I can only assume whoever is responsible for this attack lacks a conscious," continued Tanna, quickly surveying the sea of patients in the sickbay. "I don't know what to call such individuals. Nick sighed and moved on to the next patient. Tanna followed him. He wanted to ask her a question but was not sure whether she would misunderstand him and maybe be offended. "Doctor, I do not know how to put this. I do not mean to offend you but don't you think that trying to avoid any contact with other species limits your possibilities to develop? I mean look around," he let his arm sweep around sickbay. "All these different species have contributed to what the Federation is today. We have all learned from each other. Every species has its own abilities...Vulcans can heal themselves to a certain degree and others are telepaths as you have already mentioned. Isn't it these differences that make living with each other so interesting?" Nick hoped he had made his point. This was something he had wondered ever since he had read about Rixis for the first time. Ever since he was a little boy he had found other species intriguing. For him the unknown was not a threat but a challenge to learn about it. At highschool one of his best friends was Klingon and he had learned a few painful lessons regarding his temper. But he had never let anything discourage him from learning about and from other people. Dr. Lanvin smiled sadly. "I take no offense at your remarks," she replied calmly. "Yesterday, I would have agreed with you wholeheartedly. But now," she shook her head. "Now, I am uncertain." The Rixian physician looked at Lepage, her eyes searching his. She made a snap decision to trust this alien. She hoped she wouldn't live to regret it. "I beg of you, please keep this part of our conversation confidential," she said, nervously glancing around the Sickbay. "I had hoped the Federation research teams on Aegis would be able to develop a cure for the Rixian Syndrome. If you succeeded where we had failed, our political leaders whould be forced to reexamine their centuries old isolation policies. I was not alone in this." Tanna drew a deep breath and glanced around yet again. She instinctively lowered her voice even further. "Now, there is a question as to whether or not you will be able to continue the research, much less develop a cure. Even if you do find a solution, there are some Rixians who will insist we are better off remaining isolated. They will use the attack on your station to bolster their arguments." Lanvin looked away, the hopeless feeling she'd first experienced in Captain Ayers's office started creeping over her once again. "I fear we are a doomed people." Nick sensed the desperation in her voice. "Doctor, the question is not whether we will find a cure, it is when will we find it. We have made a lot of progress already. Especially in desperate situations, you should never give up hope." He stopped and looked at Tanna. There was something that had occured to him as she had talked. "I do not know why exactly your government objects to having outside contact as you call it. I do get the feeling that there is more about it than just the general scepticism concerning genetic engineering. Wouldn't a highly developed people like yours be able to deal with any criticism about your traditions? Especially since you seem to think yourselves superior to other species." Lepage hoped he had not gone too far this time. He had simply wanted to express his astonishment at the Rixians reluctance to have dealings with others. Tanna had hoped this professional would understand but it was obvious he didn't. "It wasn't our traditions the offworlders criticized," she replied stoically. "It was our very way of life. We were told we needed to alter our reproductive process in order to join the galactic community." She looked at Dr. Lepage as a hint of definance crept into her voice. "Our ancestors considered it inappropriate for offworlders to insist that we change anything. After weeks of debate, the Parliament chose to discontinue relations with other worlds. The rest is history." Nick smiled. "There is no reason to get defensive now, Doctor. I am not criticizing any of your government's decisions. I was merely expressing my astonishment." He stopped to think about what she had said and how he could make his point. Look, I understand the motives behind your ancestors decision that outside contact was not beneficial at the time. But, as you have correctly observed yourself, things have changed since then. What I do not understand is not the decision as such but why your people are so hesitant to give us another chance. What harm could come of it if you tried every now and then to see whether things have changed?" Drawing a deep breath, Tanna shrugged her shoulders and smiled wistfully. "Long held beliefs are difficult to change. I, personally, have long held reservations about my government's policy of isolation and I am not alone. The Progressives, as we are called, are eager broaden our horizions. We are confident Rixians would now be accepted for who we are. There would be no demands of any kind, much less that we discontinue our genetic engineering." Tanna sighed and shook her head sadly. "Ours is an unpopular view with the majority of my people, especially those within the governement and military. My colleagues and I have discussed it at length. We believe the establishment is afraid of change; afraid of how those changes could affect the power base on Rixis." "Unfortunately, I am just a research physician," continued the Rixian physician. "Not a well placed politician. There was only one thing I could do and that was encourage my people to ask the Federation for help with the plague. I, along with a few others, succeeded in doing that. As I mentioned earlier, we had hoped this would eventually result in more contact between my people and the Federation. Now, I fear this endeavor will do more harm than good." Nick frowned as he thought about how to answer to this. "I just hope that you yourself have not becpme discouraged by these latest events. It can be dangerous to go out there but it is worth the risk." With that he turned to the next patient and asked Tanna to scan him with her tricorder.

A joint log by Nick Lepage and Tanna Lanvin. Dr. Lanvin and Dr. Lepage walked over to the next patient, a Vulcan crewman who appeared unconscious. Nick looked around for a tricorder but could not find one close by. "So, Doctor, what is your diagnosis?" he asked, as he moved behind Dr. Lanvin to look at her tricorder. "Very interesting," replied Tanna, concentrating on the tricorder's reading. "The patient's pelvis is fractured. So is his right femur. The femoral artery was damaged resulting in significant loss of blood. However, the bleeding has now stopped." Nick raised his eyebrows, "Not bad for someone who is still getting used to the technology." Tanna glanced at Dr. Lepage and smiled. She was rather pleased with herself at how quickly she was adapting to this new technology. As different as the Federation issue tricorder was, she found it was also somewhat familiar. "We should make sure that circulation below the injury is still intact." With that, Nick motioned to Dr. Lanvin to scan the patient's foot and waited for her to tell him what she thought. She looked up at him and nodded. "Circulation below the injury is still sufficient," observed Tanna. "It appears this patient has received adequate treatment for the time being. The artery could have been life threatening but that is no longer an issue. The broken bones, though painful, can be dealt with after other, more critical patients are treated." Tanna took a step back from the patient and looked at Dr. Lepage. "I have never before seen a species with copper based blood," she said quietly. "Is this unique to Vulcans or are there other species within your Federation who possess this characteristic? Also, the patient appears unconscious. However, I found no evidence of head trauma nor has he received any sedation. This too is very intriguing." Nick was surprised to find the Rixian doctor interested in other species besides those she was treating. He had read about the Rixians and learned that they were a xenophobic people. Dr. Lanvin however seemed to be an exception. "Well, humans have iron based blood. But generally blood can be based on anything that can bind oxygen in order to transport it. Copper is just one of those elements. I do not know about all species in the Federation but most have blood based on one metal or other with similar properties. And, well, Vulcans are a species noted for their mental disciplines," he explained. "I suspect this patient has placed himself in a healing trance. While in the trance, his body will actually repair itself as well as manage any pain associated with his injuries." Tanna stared at Lepage in wonder. She could hardly believe what she was hearing. "I must admit," she said, clearly impressed. "I am amazed at some of the characteristics displayed by the Federation species on this station. It wasn't until my arrival here that I learned of telepathy. Now, I find some of you are capable of self healing. Such traits are unheard of on Rixixs." She was almost anxious to move on to other patients. Tanna couldn't wait to find out what other secrets these aliens might possess. "I really do appreciate your help, Doctor," said Lepage while wondering if it was appropriate to ask questions about Tanna's people. He decided to give it a try. "But I understand this must be a difficult situation for you. You are helping us treat patients while you hoped we might help you find a cure for a disease that is threatening to eradicate your people. Still, you don't seem to believe we can do anything to help you." Nick smiled bitterly as he thought back on Captain Nurani's visit to the science lab. Then he looked Dr. Lanvin straight in the eyes. "Why do you find it so difficult to trust others, especially in such a desperate a situation?" Tanna felt herself blushing, her cheeks quickly developing a darker blue/gray hue. She hated this question. Primarily because she'd asked it herself more times than she could count. Still, she was obligated to respond and her answer had to be politically correct. "Dr. Lepage," she began slowly. "I believed you could help us. I was very encouraged by our Parliament's decision to seek assistance from the Federation." She paused, her shoulders slumping just a bit. "But I must admit, if it weren't for the fact our people are faced with almost certain extinction, I doubt my government would have authorized us to appeal for your assistance." We have always felt...." Tanna hesitated, searching for the right words. "Unwelcome," she continued quickly. "Decades ago, there was limited contact between Rixis and a few other worlds. But we were criticized, in some cases, very harshly criticized. Our political leaders decided it was in our best interest to discourage outside contact. That has been our policy ever since." Dr. Lepage nodded but didn't say anything. He supposed that the criticism had been about genetic engineering. He did not want to bring this up because he himself was very sceptical about it. He did not, however, see any necessity to indulge in a discussion about Rixian culture. While the notion of reproduction by genetic engineering made him uneasy he was not so ignorant as to question it while he knew this practice had been applied successfully on Rixis for generations. The Rixian physician carefully closed the tricorder and again looked at Nick Lepage. She had vivid memories of what happened during Captain Nurani's tour of the lab. Nick had been there as well. He personally witnessed Nurani's "attitude." Tanna was almost certain that incident was behind Lepage's question. "Not all of us are hostile to outside assistance, " she continued, choosing her words carefully. "I considered your help essential to the survival of my people. But now, under the circumstances, we may be forced to return to Rixis and continue our research alone." She looked around the crowded Sickbay, patients lay everywhere including the floor. "Federation politics are more complicated than I ever dreamed possible," she mumbled sadly. "You have your own survival to worry about."

Tanna couldn't believe her timing. She had been wanting to talk to Captain Ayers for a couple of days but, for one reason or another, she kept putting it off. She finally met with him just a short time ago and, among other things, expressed her concerns over the Cardiassian situation. Nicholas Ayers had reassured her the Rixian delegation was in no danger. Tanna had no reason to doubt his word. When she left his office some fifteen minutes earlier, her primary concern was whether or not to tell Ambassador Avensis that she had spoken to Ayers privately. It wasn't the first conversation she'd had with Captain Ayers. During a previous chat, he assured her their little talks would be kept strictly confidential. As much as she believed him when he told her the Rixians were in no danger, she had doubts about whether or not he would keep her conversations with him a secret from the other members of her delegation. She had allowed herself a few minutes to think about it before taking the lift from the Control Tower back to her quarters. The attack began just as Tanna was about to step into the lift. Suddenly, klaxons were blaring accompanied by a sea of red lights flashing on and off. The station's personnel were clearly alarmed. Captain Ayers rushed from his office and started barking orders, his voice both calm and angry. She heard the crew talking about damage and causalities. Tanna had never experienced anything like it. She was not only frightened, she was also disappointed. Her first concern was the Ambassador. She had decided to trust that Captain Ayers would keep their conversation confidential. So there would be no need for Tanna to tell the Ambassador about it. He would never know she had been to the Control Tower. But that was before the attack. Now, it was Tanna's duty to not only contact Avensis to make sure he was safe but also to report all that she knew about this emergency. Sooner or later, he would wonder why she was in the Control Tower to begin with. Before she contacted him, Tanna made up her mind to tell him the truth should he ask that particular question. She leaned against the back wall of the room, right next to the lift and hoped she wouldn't be run over by the constant rush of crewmen as they hurried about. She managed to contact the Ambassador over the Rixian comm units they all carried. He was safe. She reported all she could about the station's status until Avensis advised her that a security officer had arrived to escort him to a secure location. It was just a moment later that Captain Ayers noticed she was still in the control tower. She remained silent as he took her by the elbow, led her into his office and ordered her to stay there until someone arrived to escort her to safety. Then he was gone. Tanna stood in the middle of the office and looked around. She thought about contacting the Ambassador again but decided not to. He was with a security officer now so they wouldn't be able to speak privately. Besides, there was nothing else for her to report. She couldn't remember if Avensis had asked her where she was when she contacted him. Nor could she recall if she had volunteered the information. In the long run, it didn't really matter. Dr. Lanvin walked back to the office door and stared at it for a moment. She doubted it was locked. She could probably leave if she really wanted to. But where would she go? She was unfamiliar with the huge station. She had no idea which areas had been damaged or how to avoid them. She stood beside the door for a few seconds before making her way to the nearest corner where she slowly slid to the floor. She sat with her legs pulled close to her chest, her forehead resting on her knees. Tanna's fear slowly ebbed away leaving her with nothing but the bitter taste of disappointment. She had believed wholeheartedly that her people would be better off if they reached out to offworlders. She believed offworlders would provide the Rixians with a cure to the plague that would eventually render them extinct. Now, that all seemed like a child's dream and Tanna felt like a fool for having believed in it. This Federation had too many irons in the fire. They couldn't take care of themselves much less the Rixians. For the first time in her life, Tanna Lanvin experienced hopelessness. Not only for herself, but for all of her people and the civilization they had worked so diligently to create

Tanna's mind raced as she made her way to the medical lab on Level 4, Midway, her confidence badly shaken. Why was she so surprised to learn there were problems on Cardassia Prime? Rixis was a relatively peaceful planet. From time to time, disagreements arose between nation states regarding everything from trade to child custody disputes. These were always settled through arbitration. Tanna had never heard of a war on Rixis. Perhaps that was because they were relatively young compared to other species. The Rixian people were only a thousand years old. Tanna figured the Ancients must have known the dangers of planetary war. They chose to breed practicality into their decedents to insure such tragedies were avoided in the future. That was one reason the Rixians had been so successful in such a short period of time. Criminality on Rixis was practically unheard of. Most law breakers were young males attempting to prove their superiority among their peers. Such characteristics were actually breed into them. They would prove useful in the future. These violations were always nonviolent in nature. Rixians considered them juvenile mischief...a part of growing up. The laws existed to prevent these young people from serious injury or death before they were mature enough to channel their energies into more productive efforts. The offenses of the young and foolish were dealt with in a strict yet compassionate manner. They were punished but never branded as incorrigibles. Most went on to live very productive lives. Of course, there were a few unfortunate exceptions. On occasion, outrageous behavior led to death or debilitating injuries. In cases like these, the victim's DNA was carefully reviewed to insure their death or injury was the result of "immature behavior" and not a genetic flaw. This was the society Tanna was accustomed to. What's more, from cradle to grave, Rixians were taught that offworlders were often violent. The histories of many were replete with horrific wars that almost wiped out their entire species. Tanna had been questioning this dogma for years. There had been very little contact with offworlders. No one on Rixis could name a single species that had nearly annihilated itself due to war or violent behavior. Tanna firmly believed much of what was taught about aliens was pure propaganda. Now, she wasn't so sure. Perhaps the Ancients had extensive contact with offworlders. Perhaps they knew about these things and were intent on protecting their progeny from such disasters. It was possible other species learned valuable lessons through their wars; lessons that would lead them to more peaceful futures. But they paid a terrible price for their education. Tanna found herself grateful that her people had been spared such traumatic events. On Rixis, lessons were learned quite differently. Then again, Rixians themselves were quite different. They had moved beyond such uncivilized behavior through the miracle of genetic engineering. A miracle most other species considered...uncivilized. Tanna was almost at the lab. Instead of proceeding down the corridor and turning right, she stopped just outside the lift and leaned against the wall. She took a deep breath and forced herself to calm down. She had to avoid the trap most of her people had fallen into. They had allowed the behavior of a few offworlders to color their opinion of all aliens. Tanna wanted desperately to keep an open mind. She believed contact with other species would benefit Rixis. She had hoped this trip to a Federation facility would confirm that belief. She had hoped it would have a positive influence on the Ambassador and through him, the planetary government back home. The Rixian physician shook her had sadly. Maybe the Ancients didn't approve of this trip after all. Maybe they were sending Rixis a message that it was better to remain isolated. Or maybe it was just bad luck that the first Rixian delegation to meet with the Federation happened to stumble into what could be a very ugly war. Tanna pushed away from the wall and strode toward the lab. Whether or not the Ancients approved was irrelevant. And there was nothing she could do about luck. Right now, she had to focus on her primary mission. She stepped into the lab determined to leave this station with a cure for Rixian Syndrome. She was just as determined to seek out Captain Ayers and ask him the questions she had kept to herself during their meeting in the Ambassador's quarters.

This log was written by Vatric and Tanna Lanvin. Seated in the Observation Lounge in light meditation, Vatric heard the doors open. He glanced over to see one of the Rixian dignitaries. It was someone he had previously met and recognized her as Tanna. Standing, Vatric fashioned his right hand into a V-shape and while pressing his left hand to his chest bowed his head slightly in respect. "I am pleased to meet you again Ms. Lanvin", said Vatric. "Welcome to our station. This is one of my favorite places to visit after my shift is complete. Isn't the view of space beautiful? From a seated position you can see clearly Argolis Cluster which is especially bright." He pointed far off in the distance. "I'm glad you could spare the time to join me. I would like to become more familiar with the Rixians and their fascinating culture." Tanna responded to Vatric's bow by nodding her head. She was told earlier that he was Vulcan and assumed his gestures were the traditional Vulcan greeting. She had done a little homework before coming to the Observation Lounge. Tanna learned that Vulcans were a highly logical civilization. They kept a tight rein on their emotions and most were touch telepaths. That unnerved her a little. But she decided to go ahead and meet with Vatric. He was one of the scientists researching a cure for the plague now ravaging Rixis. It was her duty to assist in any way possible. She would simply keep her distance so he wouldn't be able to read her thoughts. She would also try not to smile. Tanna quickly glanced through the floor to ceiling windows into the darkness beyond. Vatric was right. It was beautiful, in an eerie sort of way. "It is a lovely view," said Tanna softly as she turned her attention to her Vulcan host. "I am honored that you requested this meeting, Mr. Vatric. As you know, my people are in grave danger. It is most kind of you and your colleagues to assist us." The Rixian physician seated herself a discreet distance from Vatric and inquired, "What is it you would like to know about my world and my people?" Noticing her slight apprehension, he displayed a calm expression. "Ah yes, well as I am half Human I may not be the best example of a Vulcan. However, we are a most inquisitive and open minded people. There are varying degrees of spiritual perfection as with most cultures and I would like to dispel the idea that all Vulcans completely repress their emotions." Vatric leaned forward and poured out two cups of simple green tea and offered one to Tanna. "It seems that Rixians are rather more biased in favor of their own kind to the exclusion of alien influences. I wonder, dare I say even suspect, that this perception has been encouraged by your government. Does it sees fit to keep the population of Rixis prejudiced against off worlders in order to protect you from alternate moralities? In the vast array of societies in the galaxy, there are many cultural norms which preclude genetic engineering. Very soon, it will be no secret that Rixian physiology is the product of extensive biological manipulation. While we Vulcans take a less passionate view of genetics than Humans or other species in the Federation, it must be cause for some concern on Rixis." "Another hybrid," mused Tanna when Vatric revealed he was half human. She accepted the cup of tea while wondering about the ramifications of his mixed parentage. She was going to ask him about it but Vatric immediately launched into a series of questions about Rixis and its people. Tanna bristled at his less than tactful approach. Then she remembered what she'd read about Vulcans. They were always very straightforward. Even though he was a hybrid, Vatric must have inherited this particular trait from his Vulcan parent. "We are not as isolated as you may have been led to believe," replied Tanna, with a calm voice. "We have had numerous contacts with other species throughout our history." She made a point of looking directly at her host. "Our expertise in genetic engineering has never been a secret. We firmly believe we have developed into a superior species through our extensive use of such engineering." Tanna leaned back in her chair and carefully sipped her tea. "Genetic engineering has served us well for hundreds of years. We are content with it and have no desire to change. So you are mistaken to believe that it is a cause of concern on Rixis." "You speak of our world remaining isolated to protect the population from alternate moralities," continued the Rixian physician. "There is a reason for that." She paused a moment to gather her thoughts. "We do not claim genetic engineering is the only acceptable means for reproduction. We realize other species prefer to do things differently." She smiled sadly. "Yet, when we initially made contact with other races, many of them took it upon themselves to unfairly criticize us for the way we manipulated our DNA." She glanced down at the cup in her hands. "Because of this unwarranted criticism, our Parliament decided it was best to keep the galaxy at arms length." She again looked directly at Vatric. "What would your planet's government do if strangers suddenly decided your reproduction techniques were inappropriate? Better yet, what if these aliens labeled your culture's propensity for logic as immoral or unethical. Would you welcome such people to your world? Would such criticism be tolerated?" Somewhat taken aback at another comment about reproduction, Vatric decided that it was best to keep a somewhat professional distance. He assumed the discussion would be about the desire for telepathic abilities so instead of becoming either prudish or licentious, he responded to the questions with a tone of sympathy and reason in his voice. "I am only concerned in that if your government's hesitance to come forward with information concerning the engineering techniques, it may hamper our efforts considerably. Trying to find a cure for the Rixian Syndrome will be much more difficult and painful unless we can shed light on the troubling aspects of this disease. You cannot hope to procure a remedy when its evolution and progression has been shrouded in darkness." "I hope you will be able to overcome your hesitation. Your personal expertise is invaluable to our cooperation. We must have both an open dialogue and an informed scientific and medical analysis. We Vulcans have been tolerating criticism of our 'propensities' for generations. It is one thing to feel pride at accomplishment. Quite another to refuse to share it." Tanna felt her frustration rising. Why was she having difficulty making her point? It was important to her that Vatric understand the Rixian position. "We have never refused to share our technology, Mr. Vatric. Nor have we attempted to keep it shrouded in darkness. Quite the opposite is true." She chose her words carefully not wanting to offend the Vulcan/Human scientist. "We are very proud of our use of genetic engineering. In the past, what few alien contacts we had were not interested in such technology. Instead, they criticized it. Some went so far as to call us barbarians. Such charges puzzled us then and they puzzle us now." Lanvin carefully placed her tea cup on a small table between the chairs where she and Vatric were sitting. "Such insults were and remain offensive to all Rixians. We concluded these people did not understand our technology. Even more disturbing was the fact they didn't want to learn anything about it. They preferred to remain ignorant and disrespectful of our culture. It was in our best interest to discontinue contact with such species. That is why the Rixians are so isolated today....because of unfortunate episodes that occurred decades ago." She folded her hands and looked intently at Vatric. "I am willing to answer whatever questions you may have about all things Rixian. That includes genetic engineering, what we like to eat for lunch..." She waved one hand dismissively. "Whatever you care to ask about, I am more than willing to discuss with you. That's why I'm here." Tanna again folded her hands. "Please remember, I am a research physician so don't know all that much about economics or politics. But I can provide you with generic information. In exchange, I need something from you." At this point, Tanna hesitated, unsure if she should explain what she wanted from Vatric. She quickly decided she had already come this far. It would be a shame to waste the opportunity so she plunged ahead. "I am confident you will treat the Rixian position with respect. My research of your species tells me that Vulcans welcome diverse opinions. I only ask that you keep our conversations on non-medical subjects confidential." Tanna forced herself to look directly at Vatric. "I would also like information from you....informtaion regarding mental telepathy....and I would like you to keep those conversations confidential as well." Vatric responded apologetically. "Perhaps our lack of a proper Rixian database has put me under the misapprehension that your technology is secret. It is without doubt that the Federation could learn much from your medical sciences. I hope I will have the opportunity to visit your home world someday. Let us part in peace and may you have long life." Vatric stood up respectfully, shook her hand, and departed. He wanted to retire to get a good night's sleep. He was anxious to conclude his preliminary research so that the doctors could begin working on a cure. Tanna bid farewell and then watched quietly as Vatric walked away. She waited until he'd turned a corner before she sat down again, clearly disappointed. She had hoped to learn more about Vulcans and telepathy in exchange for information about her homeworld. Perhaps she had used the wrong approach with Vatric. At the same time, she had learned one thing. It seemed the Federation knew practically nothing about Rixians. This was deeply disturbing to Tanna. She was among those who pushed for contact with the Federation, convinced they would be able to determine the cause of the disease ravaging her home world. Now, she was overwhelmed with uncertainty. After her conversation with Vatric, Tanna was concerned the Federation was riddled with misconceptions about Rixians. This both surprised and disappointed her. She thought they would be more knowledgeable than that. The Rixian physician finally rose to her feet and slowly made her way back to her quarters. By the time she arrived, she had drawn another conclusion from her brief chat with Vatric. In spite of the Federation's lack of knowledge about Rixians, they were still her homeworld's best chance at solving their problem. After all, one couldn't blame the Federation for not knowing much about Rixis. Her people had not been intentionally isolated by the rest of the galactic community. The Rixians had freely chosen to keep their distance. As Tanna stepped into the well appointed guest quarters assigned to her, she felt much better about the situation. She was also determined to quietly spread the word about Rixis to as many Federation personnel as possible. How else would they ever learn about the place she called home.

Tanna's mind was reeling. She'd been on Sky Harbor Aegis for no more than an hour. Yet, in that short period of time, she found herself faced with a disturbing dilemma. There were aliens on this station who could read minds! Both Captain Ayers and Lieutenant Commander Hawke possessed the ability to communicate telepathically. In other words, they could exchange thoughts the same way Rixians exchanged words. Tanna had never heard of such a thing. Apparently, they was also "empathic." They claimed they could tell what others were feeling....sense their emotions....or something like that. Again, such abilities were totally foreign to Tanna. There were no such things as empaths or telepaths on Rixis. She had never anticipated meeting beings who were capable of such feats. As if that wasn't enough, Ayers also claimed his El Aurian heritage might allow him to live for centuries! He was uncertain of his life span because of his human genes. Tanna was forced to admit, this was all a bit unnerving. As a matter of fact, it was more than unnerving. It was freightening. Tanna looked around the room and noticed a table laden with a wide variety of food stuffs. A couple of people were milling about it, helping themselves to the various delicacies. Tanna excused herself and slowly made her way across the room toward the table. She followed the example of the two aliens who were already there and picked up a platter and eating utensils. She then carefully spooned small portions of several of the items offered onto her platter and found a place to sit in a dimly light corner of the room. From here, she hoped to quietly observe the Federation's finest while at the same time, calm her nerves. Her thoughts immediately drifted back to Ayers and Hawke. They were both hybrids in the truest since of the word. Each were the products of interspecies breeding. Tanna shook her head slightly. A Rixian would never consider such a thing. She found the very idea repulsive. At the same time, both Ayers and Hawke possessed unique attributes as a direct result of their mixed heritage and that resulted in a new dilemma for Tanna. As disturbed as she was about the telepathic and empathic abilities of Ayers and Hawke, she had to admit she found those traits intriguing. So was a life expectancy that spanned centuries. They were definitely beneficial and could even be considered desirable. The Rixians were a genetically engineered species and had been for a thousand years. They prided themselves on their ability to constantly improve their civilization through the miracle of genetic engineering. She knew such things were frowned upon by most offworlders. Tanna considered this disapproval archaic. She was absolutely certain the Rixians were far superior to any other species because of their genetic engineering. Yet, in a thousand years, they had never produced a single individual with empathic or telepathic characteristics. They had never even considered the possibility. And forget about life spans that were centuries long. "How could that be?" thought Tanna as she tried to appear interested in the food on her plate. "Why is it we never pursued the development of such traits among our own people? Telepathy is a superior method of communication. And think of all we could accomplish if we lived for centuries. Certainly we should have these skills yet they are totally foreign to us while mixed breed aliens have possessed them for hundreds of years." She glanced across the room and caught sight of Ayers and Hawke. They were engaged in polite conversation with the Ambassador. Torana Avensis looked a bit uncomfortable. She wondered if he'd overheard her conversation with their hosts. Did he know these two hybrids could communicate wordlessly? Did he know they could sense the emotions of others? If so, it was no wonder he appeared uneasy. On the other hand, did he still cling to the idea that these aliens were inferior beings? Was that the problem? It was at that moment that Tanna realized the unintended consequences of her visit to Sky Harbor Aegis. A solid truth she'd known all of her life had suddenly been challenged. She had always known....had always believed that the Rixians were superior to all other species. They were better because their forefathers had developed the wonders of careful genetic engineering. Each generation improved their techniques and would continue to do so until the end of time. But now, for the first time in her thirty-three years, Tanna was forced to question the validity of her long held beliefs. Again, she shook her head slightly and forced such thoughts from her mind. Unlike the Ambassador and the Captain, she considered herself progressive. She was willing to meet and work with aliens. She thought establishing trade relationships with other worlds would benefit Rixis. But even she was unwilling to suggest that other species might be superior to her people. Surely, that could not be the case.

Tanna Lanvin could barely contain her excitement. She was in her thirty-third year but at this moment in time, she felt just like she did on her sixth birthday. That was the day her parents gave her Malla, her beloved teraph. Tanna had wanted a teraph so badly she could taste it. She had begged, pleaded and prayed for one from the time she was old enough to talk. Her parents were less than enthused about having a pet in the house, especially a hairy taraph that would probably outlive all of them. But they finally relented and Malla joined the Lanvin household as Tanna's sixth year birthday gift. She had never been so excited and happy before or since....until today. In a few minutes, the air lock would open and she would come face to face with multiple species from other worlds. Tanna had wanted this just as badly as she had wanted a taraph all those years ago. She had done everything in her power to get this particular assignment. She could hardly believe it when she received word that she had been chosen to accompany the Ambassador to Sky Harbor Aegis. Never mind that only four of her colleagues from the university even bothered to apply for the position. And she chose not to think about her parents' reaction to her "fabulous news." She would allow nothing to dampen her enthusiasm. Tanna was bothered by the parochial attitude of her fellow Rixians. Hers was a closed society. Very few were the least bit interested in contact with offworlders. The vast majority, including her own parents, agreed with the Ambassador and the Captain. Other species were to be avoided. Most were inferior anyway so why waste time cultivating relationships with them. Tanna agreed that the Rixians were far superior to humans and most other species. But she was also curious about those from other worlds. She couldn't help thinking the Rixians might learn a few things if they expanded their horizons a bit. She also knew her opinions were politically incorrect. Tanna wisely kept them to herself for fear of retribution. She had a great position as a research physician at the most prestigious university in the world. She had no desire to sacrifice that position to satisfy her curiosity about alien species. At the same time, when the opportunity to travel to Sky Harbor Aegis presented itself, Tanna was the first to submit her application. During the interview, she made it clear she was only interested in contacting the Federation because of the plague sweeping across her homeworld. She doubted they would be able to help but these were desperate times. It would be criminal not to at least explore the possibility of outside assistance. That was almost the truth. These were desperate times for the Rixians. The plague was worsening and there was no cure in sight. Tanna really doubted the Federation would be able to help. But she also believed it would be criminal not to ask. However, unlike the Ambassador and everyone else involved with this mission, Tanna was looking forward to meeting and mixing with the aliens who lived and worked on Sky Harbor Aegis. Of course, she kept quiet about that. Now, as she stood behind he Ambassador at the air lock, her excitement building, she forced herself not to smile. She didn't dare let on that in spite of the serious nature of their mission, Tanna suspected she was about to embark on the experience of a lifetime.