"stelai ler'lloann ehhedra"

[Admiral Max Daystrom]

This is the personal Storyline for Reha Cha'Khev. Please ask for permission before posting here.

[rehakhev]

Introduction

The translation to "stelai ler'lloann ehhedra" is past the Federation Neutral Zone. This is the personal story of one Rihannsu exchange officer and the growth she experiences while here. There isn't gonna to be one set formal style of writing. Instead, a variety will be used based on the need at that time and which would work best. However, it will be pulled together.

I see this as more of a journal, of the events in her entire life and most importantly for the present. To get this started I'll be reposting certain passages or postings already on the Brad.

I hope the reader will enjoy this and begin to see Romulans as more then an evil power in the universe and as with all things they have good and bad traits. Both the good, bad and ugly will be shown to provide a balanced view.

The information in these postings will be both creative and factual based on over 6 years of research. Also playing a Rihannsu for over 4 yrs, closer to 5 yrs. Both the series and movies along with the writings of Diane Duane who was the only authorized person by Gene Roddenberry himself, to develop a Romulan language and cultural base that he personally approved after viewing each of her installments. The only guideline he gave her was that it had to be based on the ground work he already laid, in conjunction with his future plans for the race.

From this point there exist two separate schools of thought. The first is the strict adherence to established Cannon. Cannon as defined as what was seen only in the TV series or in the movies. That automatically discounts the work of Diane Duane for example. Doing that leaves out the vast majority of their culture and their language.

And leaving a race of people who live only in a dark realm of thought, action and deed. Having not one positive trait, and its this one sided dimension or notion that originally got me interested in them to begin with. There can't be anything real or imaginative that is totally evil or bad, nor good. Everything is balanced.

edited for clarity

[rehakhev]

And if one, thinks logically following known facts on sentient life, a total one sided view is not only ridiculous but incompatible with the basic premise of Star Trek.

The second school of thought strays from cannon in allowing aspects that were approved by Gene Roddenberry, or were in his vision to begin with. You will not find extremes in either direction instead you'll find a balance. Areas of gray if you will. As stated earlier, the good, bad and ugly will be seen.

Reha Cha'khev is a fictional character based on Star Trek set in the future year of 2390 Earth calendar, which is 1,730 years after they settled Romulas. She is about to embark on a period of her life that will alter, destroy and create new ideas, opinions and her view of the universe. In short she is about to grow in unexpected ways.

[rehakhev]

Prologue

There are events in ones life that are a foreshadowing of events to come. Reha had never been a believer in that. She felt that the major events happened as they should, with little or no warning. This way you couldn't avoid the lessons that the Elements needed or wanted you to have.

It wasn't until she was in the last year of mandatory schooling that she found herself becoming interested in the ways of the Federation. For her final paper that year she wrote on the founding of the Federation. While she worked on the paper, her concern grew that her sources would be incomplete, or lacking. She spent at least 20 hours a week on that one paper.

When it was returned she passed but not with the grade she had hoped for. But on the strength of that paper she was accepted in the top 30% of the applicants for the University. Her family had taken for granted that she would study science. And to please them she did for year.

Then she changed majors to history, with a second major in art. After her graduation, she was invited to the War College. Her family was thrilled, not many were invited. It would place her in line for an increase in standing and elevation for her house.

She did well and graduated within the top 12% of her class. She was then assigned to Valdore ship class. Where she served at the helm. The RSE Ra'kholh was her name. They were on patrol when they received orders to take S'harien Merrok to Subera Penal Colony. Where he could take his life, or life in isolation for the remainder of his life.

They were taking him instead of the usual prisoner transport ship, following rumors of an attempt to free him. Few would have the nerve to stand against the Ra'kholh. However, the rumor proved to be factual. While on the asteroid which housed Subera Penal Colony or with the unsuccessful boarding party she was exposed to the virus that nearly claimed her life and would send her to ch'Rihan for treatment, therapy and rest. And where her life would take the next turn.

Valdore Class

OOC: thanks to memory alpha for the ship image.

[rehakhev]

She was in a coma for a 4 days which was medically induced. Once the fever had broken, and the pain lessened she was brought out of the coma. Rihannsu have always favored the natural approach over the invasiveness of most medical treatments. Once awake she had to regain her strength, along with some weight she lost. Because of the strain of the virus, it left her very weak. So she given a rigorous physical therapy program. Once she completed the program she went on holiday.

She planned a trip to see the places her grandparents told her about. She was on ch'Rihan and was at Gal Gath'thong, the first place she visited on her last shore leave within the Empire. She recalled the magnificent view as they approached the southern mountain range. Unlike many mountain ranges this one lacked snow. The closer they got a pillar of smoke was seen rising to the heavens. She remembered her excitement and smiled.

Then she ascended to the top of the mountain, where the lakes of fire from a ring of volcano's spewed a continuous flow of lava over the cliff face. She stood entranced for a few minutes feeling the strength, passion, warmth, and the dual nature of the element Okhala (the element of fire that she adheres to.) Just as Okhala give give life, warmth, it could remove those in a heartbeat. From birth the diviners identified her as a Takaan, follower of the Fire sect. And as she grew her actions, thoughts, clearly identified her a Takaan. Which greatly pleased her mother who is also a Takaan.

This place held special significance to her. Many Takaans come here for a religious pilgrimage. She took a side road that allowed her to descend to the bottom of the cliffs. There she stood looking at the pool of lava as it collected. In spots there were flames shooting upward. As she watched she was overcome with a deep sense of joy, peace and felt renewed.

Then her dream reminded her that while she looked at the pooling lava she saw a vision where a funnel, swirled, casting out some debris that either burned or was still smoking. After a few hours she went to the Temple of Okhala. After paying her respects and worshiping Okhala she sought out a priest. He listened to her and watched her expressions, actions as she recalled her experience.

He nodded, "Child, you were indeed given a message from Okhala. You have been told a great change will take place. One that will shake your current thoughts, confuse you at times, but in the end will leave you without the excess feelings, thoughts, desires that will not serve you at all. Okhala is saying in effect it is time to move on, to cast out the child, accept the adult."

Reha looked at him, "I am now at the age where its acceptable to seriously date and look for a mate. I have reached adulthood."

She remembered his smile, "To Okhala, you stand at the threshold of adulthood and now you will be lead to the path that will make sure you cross that threshold."

Reha nodded still unsure of his interruption, or what she saw. She thanked him for his wise guidance in understanding the vision. But true to the words he spoke, 3 days later she was given the order to report for additional training for an exchange program.

When she reported back to the base she was told were she was assigned. She went and unpacked, making sure that if a surprise inspection took place she would not bring down the other officers who shared this room with her. After second meal, Reha went to the area where she would recieve the additional training. It was then she learned she would be sent to the Federation along with 5 other officers. Her expression, general attitude spoke for her. She was not as humans would say a happy camper.

[rehakhev]

There is a paradox residing within her. Which began when she was 17, it was at a family gathering, her cousin had finished University, deciding to delay his continued education in biology to satisfy the requirement of his saenora (5 year required military service for all Romulans). He wouldn't be attending the War College, instead he would attend another officer training academy.

He mentioned at the celebration that he ran across a book that was interesting but one he rejected. But that she would find fascinating, it was written by Kakabam Illialhlae. He was a prisoner of war and in a Federation camp for over a year. Reha read the book more then once. Seeing why Talar would reject the book and its author. She considered the writings and then submitted a short paper for some extra credit in her history class. That was when the instructor told her that her final paper due end of next year would be on the Federation.

Like all students she delayed the paper until the school year started again. When she turned it in, she received a 94, not what she expected for the amount of work. But....

Looking at the pending assignment in Federation space, the incident at Gal Gath'thong, and that assigned paper. Reha considered for the first time that foreshadowing may truly exist after all. And now she found herself here on a Federation ship, in Federation space.

[rehakhev]

Chapter one

The day she left ch'Rihan, her vada (Aunt) and vadi (Uncle) took her to the space port. They arrived at 0400 hours their was to be a meeting with the Llaugh. They looked anxious, she smiled and wondered if they were as anxious as she was.

"Don't look so concerned, it will be alright. The Federation is now in the Alliance with us. It should be interesting and I will send commuciates as often as possible." Reha assured them.

"It isn't that easy to be at ease with this. Not to long ago, we were not anywhere near this. Now." Her vadi shrugged his shoulders. "your leaving family, house and all you have known."

She interrupted him, "vadi Yhea, it will be alright and so will I be. I heard there will be another Rihannsu on the ship with me."

"Ah," her vada looked more at ease."then you will not be lonely. That brings us some comfort. Your ri'Nanov (mother) told me to give you this." She handed her a small package. Reha smiled as she took the package. "She said it would remind you of home, and who you are."

While they waited for the Llaugh House Representative, they had hholaer (coffee, having 3x's the stimulant of expresso) and nnhk (pastry that is served as dessert or for first meal). Reha had never met the Llaugh on ch'Rhian before and looked forward to meeting her. Both her vada and vadi stood up, Reha took the clue and stood as well. She saw a tall couple, above average height, walk purposefully to their table.

They bowed, "So this is Reha, its good to meet you at last. I was unable to see you in the hospital but oversaw your care. You had us very worried child." The Llaugh and her bond-mate hugged her.

Then the Llaugh put a necklace around her neck, on it was a pendent that identified the house of cha'Khev, headed by Llaiir Cha'Khev of Elehu, ch'Rihan. "Llaiir was unable to come, but sends her wishes for a safe journey. And to remind you to always remember who you are," she smiled at her "we know you will. This is truly an honor for our house. And we are aware you wanted no part of this. But you are chosen, out of all of the others who were equally qualified. Remember always the mnhei'sahe."

"It has been a long time coming that we were chosen for something this important. But I need to leave I will be a house meeting today, yes you are part of the reason." She and her bond-mate stood up. "Take care Reha Cha'Khev, our mediations and prayers will be with you." She watched as the couple walked off.

The announcement was made that the shuttle leaving for the base would be departing. She stood, bowing to both of them then hugged them tightly. Reha felt and then had to fight back the tears that threatened to materialize. Turning she walked off with the small package from her parents to the waiting shuttle.

[rehakhev]

Standing at the shuttle gate she took out her orders. It was really a formality. The Galae' already had transportation arranged. The records of this transport company could have had her information, image and route needed. The steward looked at her uniform went to the end of the line, bowing to her she nodded.

He lead her to her seat on the shuttle and stowed her gear. Then addressed her, "Arrian Cha'Khev we are honored to have you, if you require anything please do not hesitate to tell me."

"le, I will hanny'yo" Another saehne was lead in and sat next to her. He looked over smiled, "Arrian"

she smiled and nodded. "I'm Reha Cha'Khev."

"Yhea Pardek, Are you going to the base at Varald?"

"le, I am and au?"

"The same, I will be assigned to the Sseikea, a science vessel."

"Sounds very interesting."

He raised his eyebrow, "au?'

She dreaded that question but it was asked and would need to be answered. "The USS Bradbury, as part of the newly formed alliance."

"A Federation Vessel, thankfully I was not assigned. May the Elements protect you and bring you back soon."

She nodded. "Agreed."

For the reminder of the 3 hour ride they discussed various subjects ranging from the Galae' to her homeworld. He was never there. After they got to the base, they went thier separate ways. She was going to need a month of briefings and learning about them in general.

She entered her assigned quarters and found another Arrian there. They smiled to each other and finished unpacking in silence.

The other one broke the silence, "I'm Arrian Isha Tomalak, assigned to the USS New York, Federation vessel."

"ah, I am Arrian Reha Cha'Khev, assigned to the USS Bradbury also a Federation vessel."

"I'm pleased to have made the cut and assigned to the alliance fleet. What about you?"

"The opposite feeling. But I have been counseled so I now understand and accept the importance of this assignment." In her heart she knew she gave the standard party answer. But if she thought it enough and lived it, it would happen. She hoped.

[rehakhev]

The next month passed quickly as it always seems to do when is one is kept busy and occupied. The classes where long and very detailed. Normally a student would have 2 days to rest from classes. Even in the Galae' this was followed, but this time they attended class daily. They were encouraged to speak Standard Federation at all times. On the day they completed the course they were given leave for 3 days, to spend time with family.

She went to her Aunt and Uncle and had a very enjoyable and restful time. On the morning of her departure she arose early, after dressing and sending a message home to her parents she had breakfast. They all laughed and exchanged stories many of them she had never heard before.

She looked at the time and stood up. "Its time for me to leave. I thank you both for opening your home to me. But much too soon it has to end. I love all of you and will never this time we shared." She went around the table hugging and kissing each member of the family. Then turning she walked to the door and left.

[rehakhev]

As she walked out the door and it closed behind her, she felt a chapter in her life closed and would never open again. That she would never again be the person she was. And it was this realization that caused her to feel resentment in areas that it should not go.

She reached the base and then went to the transport to take her to the USS Bradbury. Getting on the transport she sighed deeply and again felt the door close.

[rehakhev]

Chapter 2

Her transport with the usual Rihannsu skill and drive to excel reached the destination on time. She watched out of the side VP as the shuttle docked at the station. Her stomach knotted, and she swallowed hard. Again she cursed the events that brought her here. It would be the last time she would do that, or so she told herself. It was time to adjust. Only a fool fights the tide expecting to win. She walked off the shuttle, then picked up her duffel bag and went to the gate leading into the main area of the station. Before walking into the depths of the Thraiin (plural of thrai a wolf like animal found on ch'Rihan) cave, she turned and looked at the Rihannsu shuttle getting ready to leave.

She turned back and peered into the station for a second. So many varied races, all in a seeming rush to get somewhere. She saw some that in the past were enemies of the Empire and now she must find a way to work with and among them. She had one one thought as viewed the site before her. "Caelis-a u' Kholairlh-a nodaire i deleth arhva" Powers and Elements! Guide and protect me. It was not planned nor meant to beseech the Elements. She wet her lips taking a deep breathe then walked though the gates with her orders in hand.

As she entered the station she carried herself with the pride, confidence and unmistakable air of a Rihannsu. No one would know that in her were grave misgivings concerning this assignment. Without realizing it a wall began to build and surround her being from the others on the station.

[rehakhev]

She was who she was and that would not change simply because she carried a padd with orders on it. She would not fail, not only was it not in her nature it was not the Rihannsu way. Failure was never an option. In battle perhaps a tactful retreat for the moment but never failure. By the time she reached the ship her wall was complete.

She walked to the gate and looked at the guard who gave her a surprised stare then reached for her orders. She handed it to him and never allowed her gaze to leave him.

"Everything seems to be in order Lt, place your thumb here." She said nothing and complied to this request. Taking her orders back she walked on the walkway to the ship. But she heard them say among themselves, "Friendly isn't she. Can you image being on a ship with that one?"

She said nothing and thought I can not image being on a ship with Fleeters. And since when is a check point supposed to be a place for casual conversation. She shuddered.

[rehakhev]

After entering the ship for the first time there were several observations she made. The first of these was the lightening it was high for her. The only adaptation of their eyesight since leaving Vulcan they was to lose the inner eyelid. The sensitivity to light still remained as part of their genetic make-up. To date the scientist on ch'Rihan theorized their eyes would eventually make the adjustment, but still didn't have any idea of when. As a matter of comfort they wore special contacts to shield their eyes. Most avoided going out when the sunlight was at its strongest.

The second observation was the lower temperatures on the ship. While she was not cold it was differently chilly to her. She noted the others on the ship seemed to be quite comfortable. Reha knew it would a little time to adjust. On the world she grew up on, it was slightly cooler then ch'Rihan, and the sunlight was angled so that it was brighter then most Rihannsu were accustomed to.

The third observation was the amount of casual interaction in the corridors. She was briefed that Rihannsu were more formal then the Federation and now she was observing it first hand. She noted the possible outcome of increased comradely among the crew.

No matter where she went she was greeted with one three possible reactions or a combination of them. Curiosity, and admittedly there was a fair amount of that within her. Concern, so much and so little was know about each other that concern was only to be expected. But perhaps for her it was more so. Rihannsu were naturally concerned about anyone who was not Rihannsu. Which was the opposite of the Fleeters. They seemed almost complied to meet others and interact. But then they must have had the opposite experiences. Perhaps someday the Fleeters would learn the truth but it was highly doubtful.

She went to the quarter masters for her room assignment and to find out where she should go to report in. After receiving the information she went to her quarters.