USS Paladin

Compiled By: Calvin Capps
========================================================================================================================
Mission: Piercing the Iron Curtain
Mission Day: 4
Stardate: 2407.01.13
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Sickbay, CMO, Dr. Jared Keller, 0945)
(USS Paladin, Sickbay, CMO, Dr. Jared Keller, 0945)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Corridor, Paladin crew: ACEO Ens(jg) Samuel Samtak , 0959)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Guest Quarters, Paladin crew: Counsellor Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1010)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Guest Quarters, Paladin crew: ACTSO Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1011)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: Counsellor Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1040)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1441)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ACTSO Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1045)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: Counsellor Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1046)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Sam Moto 1048)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesah Kotal, 1050)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ATC/ASO Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1054)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesah Kotal, 1100)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesah Kotal, 1200)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ATC/ASC Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1205)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Mess Deck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1235)
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Mess Deck, Paladin crew: ATC/ASC Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1250)
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1500)
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - Ensign Tar Loxari - 1500)
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller- 1502)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1503)
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - Ensign Knightley - 1505)
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller- 1506)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron & FO Lt. Commander Capps - 1512)
(USS Paladin - Jefferies Tube 12 - Ensign Zack Tristen - 1523)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1532)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1533)
(USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:34)
(USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:35)
(USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:36)
(Starbase 234, Outside Cargo bay 3 - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 1540)
(USS Paladin - Deck 27, Brig - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:40)
(USS Paladin - Deck 27, Brig - Lance Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne- 15:40)
(USS Paladin - Deck 27, Brig - Lance Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:41)
(Starbase 234 - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1542)
(USS Paladin - Security Centre - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:43)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1543)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO LT JG Steven Matrix - 1543)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1545)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1545)
(USS Paladin - Deck 27 - Brig - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:46)
(USS Paladin - Deck 27 - Brig - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:47)
(USS Paladin - Deck 27 - Brig - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:49)
(Starbase 234, Cargo Bay 3 - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 1555)
(USS Paladin, Cargo Bay 3, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1600)
(Starbase 234 - Main Engineering - Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1603)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1622)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -LT JG Steven Matrix- 1622)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1624)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1625)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1625)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1626)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1626)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1627)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1628)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp - 1629)
(USS Paladin - Cargo Bay 3 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee and ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 16:29)
(USS Paladin, COPS Office - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1630)
(USS Paladin - Transporter Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1640)
(Starbase 234 - Outside Main Ops - Science Officer Ensign (jg) Olesia Belden and Corporal T'Sora - 16:46)
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1647)
(USS Paladin - Transporter Room 3 -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1652)
(USS Paladin - Lt Tirrel Office - 3rd Lt Hyde - 1727)
(USS Paladin - MCO`s Office - MCO Conner Tirrel - 17:28)
(USS Paladin - MCO's Office - 3rd Lt Philip Hyde - 1730)
(USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Lt Max - 2000)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2000)
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joram Matthew Brownlee - 20:02)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2005)
(USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Lt Max - 2010)
(USS Paladin, Ensign's Quarters - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2010)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2015)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2022)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 2023)
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 20:24)
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 20:25)
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 20:25)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2, COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2028)
(USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Ensign Tristen - 2230)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2030)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2035)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2036)
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 2037)
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2040)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Sickbay, CMO, Dr. Jared Keller, 0945)

Dr. Loxari grinned back at Jared.  "I'm sterile.  I think I'm clean enough and I don't think the patients in the 
makeshift sickbay are going to be that concerned with a few tattered stitiches on my uniform.  And my ankle is fine.  
I'll just keep my weight off of it as much as I can.  Time is of the essence right now and apparently my wounds are 
minimal compared to some." 

Jared nodded, he liked dedication though some had to learn their limits... during a surgery or other medical procedure 
was a bad time to find you were gassed. Better to take it slow and work your way up a bit at a time till you knew how 
far you could go. ~But maybe I'm just being a worry wart, he seems energetic enough.~
 
 "So, shall we begin, sir?"
 
"Of course the chief said, satisfied he was sterile and led the way to the operating room where the young woman was 
already prepped and the sterile field hummed around the biobed. Her external wounds had already been closed by Dr. 
Maybrey. Jared spoke out loud. "Computer I want a full scan of Ensign Knightley's sinus cavity and a 3D image at eye 
level."
 
The image was available almost immediately. "See here," Jared pointed. "A soft tissue tear that is still bleeding a 
bit though not profusely, in my learned opinion it was due to the concussion of the exploding panel as there was no 
entry wound nor is there any alien bodies near the wound. Computer continue scanning for non biological material."
 
[Scanning.]
 
(Reply: Tar)
 
The probe was inserted into the cavity and Jared controled it in minute increments, the 3D view now showed the cavity 
from the probes point of view, once it was in position he smiled and lifted his head a bit. "We are there Dr. 
Loxari." While the fluid was vented with a small tube overseen by Tar, Jared used the dermal regenerator in the 
probe to close the wound, after finishing he stepped back smiling. "We're done here, would you withdraw the vent 
please then I'll remove the probe"
 
(Reply: Tar)
 
"Thank you Doctor for assisting me," After removing the probe he handed it to a nurse for cleanup and return to 
stores. "If you'd like you can return to cargo bay 3 while I report to the Commander."

(posted by Charles)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Sickbay, CMO, Dr. Jared Keller, 0945)

Dr. Loxari grinned back at Jared.  "I'm sterile.  I
think I'm clean enough and I don't think the patients
in the makeshift sickbay are going to be that
concerned with a few tattered stitiches on my uniform.
 And my ankle is fine.  I'll just keep my weight off
of it as much as I can.  Time is of the essence right
now and apparently my wounds are minimal compared to
some."
Jared nodded, he liked dedication though some had to
learn their limits... during a surgery or other
medical procedure was a bad time to find you were
gassed. Better to take it slow and work your way up a
bit at a time till you knew how far you could go. ~But
maybe I'm just being a worry wart, he seems energetic
enough.~
 
 "So, shall we begin, sir?"
 
"Of course the chief said, satisfied he was sterile
and led the way to the operating room where the young
woman was already prepped and the sterile field hummed
around the biobed. Her external wounds had already
been closed by Dr. Maybrey. Jared spoke out loud.
"Computer I want a full scan of Ensign Knightley's
sinus cavity and a 3D image at eye level."
 
The image was available almost immediately. "See
here," Jared pointed. "A soft tissue tear that is
still bleeding a bit though not profusely, in my
learned opinion it was due to the concussion of the
exploding panel as there was no entry wound nor is
there any alien bodies near the wound. Computer
continue scanning for non biological material."
 
[Scanning.]
 
Tar could sense Dr. Keller's apprehension about his
current physical state.  "Don't worry Doctor, I'll be
fine.  Ah yes I see the tear.  Nothing the dermal
regenerator can't fix though."  Tar said examining the
view before him.
 
The probe was inserted into the cavity and Jared
controled it in minute increments, the 3D view now
showed the cavity from the probes point of view, once
it was in position he smiled and lifted his head a
bit. "We are there Dr. Loxari." While the fluid was
vented with a small tube overseen by Tar, Jared used
the dermal regenerator in the probe to close the
wound, after finishing he stepped back smiling. "We're
done here, would you withdraw the vent please then
I'll remove the probe"

"Two steps ahead of you." Tar said as he was ready to
remove the vent immediately.  "That was easy.  No
further internal injuries, I take it?"
 
"Thank you Doctor for assisting me," After removing
the probe he handed it to a nurse for cleanup and
return to stores. "If you'd like you can return to
cargo bay 3 while I report to the Commander."
 
"I will indeed.  Once you return to the cargo bay,
however, I think some good old-fashioned ice is what
this ankle needs." Tar said as he felt his ankle
starting to swell inside his boot.  "That is with your
permission, sir."

(posted Rhone)
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(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Corridor, Paladin crew: ACEO Ens(jg) Samuel Samtak , 0959)

Sam Samtak walked through the corridors of the Klingon vessel he
boarded just a few days ago, the CO told him that they would be
getting two other Starfleet Officers aboard.

''Computer, when do the two Starfleet Officers that are scheduled to
board today come onboard?''

[Two Starfleet Officers boarded  approximately 15 minutes ago]

''Where are they now?''

[Deck One, Main Bridge]

Samuel quickly headed for a turbolift, as Sam entered he requested to
go to the bridge.

(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Bridge, Paladin crew: Counsellor
Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, TAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto and ACEO Ens(jg) Samuel
Samtak , 0959)

A few seconds later the lift doors opened and he was standing on the
Main Bridge. He saw a Lieutenant and one very young Ensign, probably
just graduated the Academy like himself.

~Mmm, I think I'll introduce myself.~ Sam's thoughts were as he
started walking slowly to the to Officers.

''Hello, I'm Ensign Samuel Samtak, I heard you were coming aboard, so
I thought that I should introduce myself, since we are all assigned to
the USS Paladin.''

Aya turned to see a young ensign, wearing an engineer's uniform and
junior ensign's pip. She smiled.

"Nice to meet you, Samuel. This is Ensign Sam Moto, and I am
Lieutenant Ayesha Kotal, thought my friends call me Aya. And since
we're not formally on duty yet, I think you could call me that", she
added with a smile.

''Pleased to meet you too. Just wondering, how long till we reach the
Paladin and Starbase  234? ''

"According to Captain Tkur, we will be there in three days," Aya 
answered.

''Oh I see. Well, that gives us plenty of time to do something 
together.''
Sam said with a grin.

"and what did you have in mind exactly?" Sam (Moto) turned to face the
engineer and gave a sidewards grin, "shall we see what recreational
facilities they have? I fancy a little competition, as long as you 
don't
mind loosing?" A cocky smile crossed over his face and he looked at the
engineer who was sporting a similar grin.

Sam then looked at the Counselor stood next to him, they had been 
chatting
only a few moment before the engineer had arrived and Sam had seen a 
very
calm and gentle person in this woman but now he could sense that she 
too
felt her competitive side kicking in and wanted a piece in this little
tournament as it was turning into. "Sooooo, who's up for a quick 
session in
the holodeck, no pun intended of course."

Aya grinned. "Why not? With your permission, Captain Tkur?" she added
with an apologetic smile towards the Klingon, who nodded and growled
something at them. She sensed his desire for them to leave his Bridge
so he and his crew could get on with their jobs, though really you
didn't need to be empathic to work that one out. His body-language and
facial expression was enough.


She drew her companions with her towards the turbolift. "So what did
you have in mind?" she asked.

(posted by Liz, Konrad, Nicholas)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Guest Quarters, Paladin crew: Counsellor Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1010)

Aya watched the Klingon crewman who had shown her to her quarters
leave, and sighed once she was sure the door was closed. The room was
small, bare and the bed appeared to be a shelf. With no bedding.

There was a tiny cubicle which served as both shower and toilet
facility, a touchpad on the wall transforming it from one to the
other.

Since there was another bunkbed (or shelf) in the room, she assumed it
was meant to hold two people and was suddenly very grateful she was
the only female Paladin crewmember travelling on this ship. At least
there was no question of having to share!

She didn't bother unpacking much, but she did root around in her
baggage until she found a large throw which she could wrap around her
at night. Hopefully that would soften the shelf a little too.

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Guest Quarters, Paladin crew: ACTSO Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1011)

Sam gave a quick smile as he entered his room, he should have known not 
to 
expect any significant improvements to the crew quarters on klingon 
vessels 
since he was last aboard one. He said goodbye to the crewman that had 
escorted him here before looking around, ~not that it would take long~ 
Sam 
joked to himself. He looked at the bed, well the stone shelf that he 
knew 
would be his bed. ~it?s a good job I knew that was coming!~ Sam laughed 
whilst pulling out a blanket and a thin roll mattress.

(posted by Nick)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: Counsellor Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1040)

Aya stood outside the holodeck, waiting for Sam Moto to arrive. She
got a few stares from some of the Klingon crew as they passed her on
their way to wherever they were going, but simply stared back
stoically. She could feel their curiosity about her, and wondered
whether it was based in the fact that she was part-Betazoid, or the
fact that her position was counsellor, a position she strongly
suspected Klingons did not have on most ships and could see no use
for.

She grinned to herself. This should be an interesting journey.

To her relief, Sam finally showed up.

"I guess you were too busy examining your huge quarters," she said
with a grin, though quietly so as not to offend any of their hosts who
might be within earshot.

(reply Sam)

"OK then," Aya said. "Any ideas about what kind of holoprogram we 
should try?"

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1441)

A loud pop and a flash filled the area where Matrix was working. Sparks
filled the immediate area, then subsided as quickly as they had 
appeared.
Matrix sat up on one elbow, "Well that's not going to look good on a
resume."

Kyp grinned, "Heh, it's your resume. Just make sure to tell them when 
they
ask about it that this happened after the marines blew up Main Ops. We 
had
to come through and fix what they broke." He winked. 
 
Matrix was waiving the smoke from his face, still leaning on his elbow.
"Whew, plasma cutter and polytrialuminum stinks. You're right, but that
little blunder didn't help any." Replied Matrix
 
Kyp opened up another panel and found out what was missing from the 
other
panel to connect it to the computer. He helped Matrix reroute the panel 
they
had repaired. Kyp smiled when the panel lit up like new and seemed as 
if it
hadn't been blown open about an hour ago. "See, we're a good team?"
 
Matrix got off the floor, smiling at Kyp, "agreed, lets see what else 
we can
fix while we're here."

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ACTSO Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1045)

The request that came through to meet up with counsellor Kotal came 
sooner 
than Sam had expected. He had known that their was someone else 
travelling 
on this ship to the Paladin, but until the Klingon had arrived with the 
PADD 
that introduced Sam to this woman, he had not known who or what 
position 
they held. What intrigued Sam more was that she wanted to meet him in 
the 
Holodeck, ~what could she want to meet there for? A nice chat and 
drinks 
isn?t good enough?~ he laughed, remembering the burning Alcoholic 
drinks and 
live food that was the staple Diet amongst Klingon?s ~that would be 
why!~

Sam entered the holodeck and found that the counsellor was already 
there 
waiting for him. She looked relieved to see him, but Sam decided not to 
point this out, ~not a good first impression to make fun of someone new 
~ . 
She smiled and spoke "I guess you were too busy examining your huge 
quarters." Sam laughed at this, no doubt this counsellor had been 
shocked at 
the living conditions aboard a Klingon vessel.

?Just making it a bit more homely. I see that its your first timwe 
aboard a 
Klingon ship, so I brought you this just in case,? he help out another 
small 
roll mattress that he had brought with him, ?I know how uncomfortable 
it can 
get so I came prepared for both of us.? he smiled as the Counsellor 
took the 
mattress gratefully.

(Reply: Ayesha)

She then turned her attention to the consol on the wall, "OK then, Any 
ideas 
about what kind of holoprogram we should try?"

?How about I let you choose.? Sam chuckled, he knew the types of 
programs 
found on Klingon files and thought it could be quite amusing to watch 
her 
choose.

(posted by Nick)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: Counsellor Lt(jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1046)

"Just making it a bit more homely," Sam replied with a laugh. "I see
that its your first time aboard a Klingon ship, so I brought you this
just in case," he held out a small roll mattress that he had brought
with him, "I know how uncomfortable it can get so I came prepared for
both of us." he smiled.

Aya took the mattress gratefully. "Thank you, Sam!" she exclaimed.
"This will be MUCH appreciated, I can assure you!"

She then turned her attention to the console on the wall, "OK then,
Any ideas about what kind of holoprogram we should try?"

"How about I let you choose." Sam chuckled.

Aya shot him a thoughtful glance, wondering what was so funny, then
brought up the choices available on the console. As she read down the
list, she understood Sam's chuckle, and turned to him with a grin.

"Not exactly the usual range of choices," she said. "How about this
one?" Aya added, pointing to a program which loosely translated as
'Bat'leth For Beginners'. She had done a little fencing whilst at the
Academy, and had enjoyed it, though she doubted that bat'leth fighting
would bear much resemblance to the Terran sport.

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Sam Moto 1048)

When Sam saw the realisation and grin spread across the counsellors 
face he 
knew that she had understood why he had laughed when he let her choose. 
Nearly every single holodeck program that Sam had seen on any Klingon 
vessel 
or computer focuses on combat and killing, whether it be space, hand to 
hand, or sharp shooting. Klingon?s thrived on honing their fitting 
prowess, 
and did not see the point in wasting time on other ?mundane? 
activities.

After searching through the vast archives of how best to kill people 
and 
avoid death, she seemed to settle on a program, "Not exactly the usual 
range 
of choices," she joked, "How about this one? 'Bat'leth For Beginners'.? 
she 
pointed at the console. Sam had been trained to use a Bat?leth and had 
become quite adept at it during his 6 year?s living on a small Klingon 
colony a few years ago, but since he had joined Starfleet, he had not 
had 
the opportunity or willing opponent to exercise his skills. He doubted 
that 
Aya had even even seen a Bat?leth fight, but he did not under estimate 
her, 
she seemed to have something up her sleeve from the smirk in the corner 
of 
her mouth.

?This seems as good an opportunity as ever to see if I can remember 
anything 
from my training, when I used to live in a Klingon Colony, I may be 
able to 
give you a few pointers even, if you will allow it?? he said rather too 
cocky than he had wanted. Aya simply tapped the console, loading the 
program, a sparing room with various weaponry attached to the wall, a 
traditional Klingon training room. She walked over to a sleek Bat?leth 
and 
brandished it with a traditional Klingon fighting stance.

(Reply: Aya)

?It seems I may have under estimated you counsellor.? Sam replied as he 
too 
took identical weaponry from the wall and stood ready to intecept Aya?s 
attack, ?Your move.?

(posted by Nick)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesah Kotal, 1050)

Aya simply tapped the console, loading the program, a sparing room
with various weaponry attached to the wall, a traditional Klingon
training room. She walked over to a sleek Bat'leth and hefted it,
testing the weight and the swing of it before taking a traditional
Klingon fighting stance.

She looked perhaps more confident than she felt. Fencing with swords
was one thing, but this would be, she knew, rather different. Still,
and unusally for a woman, she had specialised in the sabre, the
heaviest of the swords used in Terran fencing, which she hoped would
stand her in good stead. ~This should be an interesting learning
curve~ she thought.

"It seems I may have under estimated you counsellor." Sam replied as
he too took identical weaponry from the wall and stood ready, "Your
move."

Remembering some displays of bat'leth fighting she had seen, Aya
brought her blade up diagonally, shielding herself from a
counter-attack whilst simultaneously thrusting forwards. Sam
countered, and they circled one another.

Despite her best efforts, it wasn't long before Aya found herself flat
on her back, her opponent's blade at her throat.  She looked up at Sam
with a grin."What was that you were saying about pointers?" she asked,
chuckling. "As you can see, I need some!"

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ATC/ASO Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1054)

Sam couldn?t help but smile as he easily countered the counsellors 
opening 
moves. However it did shock him slightly at the precision and knowledge 
of 
some of the techniques she performed, ~she has had experience at some 
kind 
of fighting, possibly sword?~ but Sam could not be sure. He circled her 
before feinting a left and following with a right, catching Aya off 
guard, 
knocking her bat?leth away from her centre of gravity before quickly 
swiping 
her legs from under her. He let the situation sink in to the counsellor 
before he gently placed the end of the blade at the throat, just enough 
for 
her to feel. He moved so that she could see his face, serious and cold, 
but 
before long he could not hold it any longer and let out a laugh and a 
warm 
smile spread across his face.

?Well done Lt, you?ve had some experience at other forms of fighting I 
can 
see, it makes a change to see a counsellor who can kick the enemies 
arse as 
well? he lent down to help Aya up. She grabbed his arm and he gently 
began 
to raise her.

(Reply: Aya)

She looked up at Sam with a grin "What was that you were saying about 
pointers?" she asked, chuckling. "As you can see, I need some!"

When she was at her feet he stepped back a little, ?well your stance is 
good, as is your foot work and grip, but the trick with Bat?leth is not 
always strength, as many people stereotypically think with Klingons, it 
is 
about balance and using your opponents strength against them.? He 
looked at 
her for a moment to make sure she understood this, and also to see if 
she 
was recalling any skills on fighting this type of battle, after all he 
didn?t want to get caught off guard just yet. He continued, showing her 
a 
few basic moves and techniques, she picked them up quickly, ~almost too 
quickly~ Sam joked to himself. Before long they stood opposing each 
other 
again.

(posted by Nick)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesah Kotal, 1100)

"Well done Lt, you've had some experience at other forms of fighting I
can see, it makes a change to see a counsellor who can kick the
enemies a*** as well" he leaned down to help Aya up. She grabbed his
arm and he gently began to raise her.

"Thanks," Aya said. She rubbed her behind ruefully. "Though I'm not
sure it's the enemy's a*** that'll be getting kicked," she added. She
looked up at Sam with a grin "What was that you were saying about
pointers?" she asked, chuckling. "As you can see, I need some!"

He stepped back a little, "Well your stance is good, as is your foot
work and grip, but the trick with Bat'leth is not always strength, as
many people stereotypically think with Klingons, it is about balance
and using your opponents strength against them." He showed her a few
basic moves and techniques, which they then practised in another
sparring bout.

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt(jg) Ayesah Kotal, 1200)

Aya got up off the floor for the third time and held up her hands in a
mock gesture of surrender, laughing.

"Enough!" she said.

They had spent the last hour alternating between instruction from Sam
and practice bouts, and Aya felt she was showing some improvement. Of
course, Sam was still far more skilled than she was, but she thought
that she was benefitting from his help.

"You're a good teacher," she continued, slotting her bat'leth back
into the stand. She knew that in theory it didn't matter, since it
would disappear as soon as the holoprogram was ended, but tidy habits
die hard. "But I'm whacked! How about we see if we can get anything to
eat? I've not actually eaten Klingon food before, but I'm game to try
anything at least once. Speaking of which, could we continue our
lessons with the bat'leth tomorrow? I think the workout will do me
good, and it never hurts to learn a new skill."

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Holodeck, Paladin crew: ATC/ASC Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1205)

The last hour had proved quite exhausting for both Sam and Aya as they 
continuously sparred and practiced some of the core skills and moves 
used in 
Bat?leth, skills which had took Sam years to master. The counsellor was 
a 
keen learner and also a very quick one. By the end of the hour she had 
already got to grips with the basics of the Kap?lak style of fighting, 
a 
swift agile form, which Sam had correctly assumed would most suite Aya. 
So 
well in fact that in a few bouts she nearly beat Sam, although he 
pulled off 
a few tricks to make sure that it didn?t happen just yet, ~not that?ll 
I let 
her know it either!~ he chuckled to himself.

Sam helped Aya up off the floor, both laughing, although it was quite 
painful to do so at this point they were both exhausted, sweat poured 
of 
their foreheads and the rest of their body?s for that matter. "You're a 
good 
teacher," she continued, as she moved over to the stand, slotting her 
bat'leth back into it.~does she know that it?ll only dissapear in a 
minute 
anyway? ~ he joked. "But I'm whacked! How about we see if we can get 
anything to eat? I've not actually eaten Klingon food before, but I'm 
game 
to try anything at least once. Speaking of which, could we continue our 
lessons with the bat'leth tomorrow? I think the workout will do me 
good, and 
it never hurts to learn a new skill."

Sam laughed. ?So I?m a teacher now? So be it, that makes you a pupil 
you 
understand? he smiled, ?And I totally agree with you on the totally 
Whacked 
point, although I probably wouldn?t have used that phrase.? Laughing he 
continued ?Computer, end programme.? he commanded. The Sparring room 
vanished and the familiar orange and black holodeck walls returned. He 
began 
to walk over to the door. Aya followed out into the corridors of the 
ship. 
?The mess is down this way, I think!? he joked.

They chatted all they way down to the Mess deck, about, their new 
postings, 
the Paladin, its latest mission, and other more pointless topics, 20 
minutes 
of more, Sam got them lost a couple of times, but he insisted that 
Klingon 
ships all looked completely different inside, although niether of them 
brought it. Before Sam stepped through the doors he turned to Aya, ?so 
you 
say you?ve never had Klingon Cuisine before?? She nodded. ?Well I think 
your 
in for a treat then!? he couldn?t help but burst a little laugh as they 
entered. He looked at Aya, waiting for a reaction more than anything!

(posted by Nick)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Mess Deck, Paladin crew: COUNS Lt (jg) Ayesha Kotal, 1235)

Before Sam stepped through the doors he turned to Aya, "so you say
you've never had Klingon Cuisine before?"

She nodded.

"Well I think you're in for a treat then!" Sam laughed as they
entered. He looked at Aya, as if waiting for a reaction.

Aya's eyes twinkled. While it was true that she'd never had Klingon
cuisine before, she'd eaten some weird and wonderful things in her
time, from a dish called tripe and onions, which she ate whilst
visiting the home of a terran room-mate at the Academy, to live
Borellian slug-worms at a formal dinner on her last ship assignment.
And she had researched the subject of Klingon cuisine at length so she
thought she had a fair idea what to expect. But she was willing to
play along, so she smiled back innocently.

"That's good," she said.

When it was her turn to choose her food, Aya kept a straight face as
she said, "Everyone always speaks of what a delicacy gagh is, and how
much better it tastes fresh, but that the only place to be served it
*really* fresh is on a Klingon vessel."

She thought she caught a strange sound from somewhere close, as if
someone had stifled a laugh, but couldn't locate it.

(reply Sam iyw)

"So I'd like gagh, please," she said cheerfully to the server.

Her nerve very nearly deserted her when she saw the bowl of wriggling
serpent-worms she was presented with, but she thanked the man politely
and took her seat at a long table next to Sam. The other seats were
filled with Klingon crew, amongst whom was the Captain. There was an
exchange of comments around the table as she sat down with her food,
which hushed in anticipation as she began to eat.

On the whole, Aya preferred her food both dead and cooked, but rather
to her surprise, the gagh was not nearly as unpleasant as she had
feared. In fact, half way through the bowl she decided that she
actually rather liked it. Even the way the worms wriggled on their way
down was not a completely unpleasant sensation.

As she swallowed the last worm, she was astonished at the burst of
noise that greeted her and she realised that almost the entire room
had been watching her eat. To her intense surprise, money seemed to be
changing hands all over the room, and she sudenly realised they had
been betting on whether she would manage to eat the gagh or not. She
laughed aloud then almost choked as one of the winners came over and
clapped her on the back in congratulation.

She shot Sam a mischievous grin. "You're right," she said as she got
her breath back, "It *was* a treat!"

(posted by Liz)
========================================================================================================================
(Klingon Transport Vessel Q'Ro'Q, Mess Deck, Paladin crew: ATC/ASC Ensign (jg) Sam Moto, 1250)

He could not help but smile as he and the Counsellor entered the 
Klingon 
mess hall. She looked shocked and slightly taken aback, slightly calmer 
than 
some people he had seen though, she maintains an essence of calm about 
her 
and tried to stay on top of the situation, making sure she was a polite 
as 
possible to her hosts. Sam had seen many people walk in, sweating, 
clammy 
hands, and etching in, not wanting to offend anyone but also trying 
their 
best to get out of their situation. Aya was not one of those people. 
She 
confidently strode up to the cue and waited for her turn. Sam cued up 
behind 
her. He could see out of the corner of his eye several Klingons having 
looking in their direction and whispering, but the counsellor seemed 
oblivious to this.

Sam nearly choked when Aya ordered gagh. That dish had to be the most 
aquired taste in the universe! He had only had it a couple of times and 
he 
could only just stomach it, and now a counsellor who had never even 
eaten a 
Klingon dish was about to face eating an entire dish full!, to keep up 
appearances of course.

Sam could now hear and see many whispering Klingons throughout the mess 
hall 
and he got the jist of what was going on. As Aya went to sit down Sam 
ordered what could only be described as a large horn beetle like 
creature, 
about a foot long and, still alive of course. It came sit a rather 
large 
knife and skewer, but Sam had had this many times and it actually was 
one of 
the nicer dishes on the Klingon menu, despite its appearance. He also 
walked 
over to one of the Klingon?s who seemed to be dealing with money, and 
had a 
quick word.

He sat opposite the Counsellor, who was still deciding on how best to 
tackle 
the bowl in front of her. But she soon got stuck into it, and as the 50 
or 
so people sat and watched discretely she actually looked as if she was 
beginning to enjoy it.

A burst of appluase and cheers erupted in the room as she finished the 
last 
of the gagh and several people came up to her and congratulated her. 
Sam 
just laughed. ?Welcome to the Klingon way of life. I can?t understand 
how 
you didn?t notice all the betting going on? he laughed again for a few 
moments, he was close to hysterics, ?but you sure did provide them with 
top 
class entertainment?,? a Klingon tapped Sam on the back, he turned and 
took 
a fair large amount of money off him, ??and also me with a good sum of 
money,? he divided it and gave half to the counsellor ?I think you 
deserve 
this more than me! I can?t believe the odd were so high! But I?m glad I 
was 
right about you Counsellor. I?m honoured to know you. Now where to now, 
Lady?s choice!!!?

(posted by Nick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - Ensign Elizabeth Knightley - 1500)

Elizabeth laid on the medical bed. Her body was stiff straight. Her body was still in
a state of shock with everything that had happened to it in the past several hours.

Her eyes began to open, but it was difficult for her to do so. She had to give all
her strength to open them half way. The light stared down into her pupils causing
her discomfort and the ability not to see.

Ensign Knightley attempted to remember where she was and why was she there,
but she was unable to. She could feel a headache coming on, and a bit of
dizziness as well.

It was hard for her, but the confusion began to bother her. She needed to know
what was going on. She pulled more strength that she did not have to try to
speak. "Hello," Elizabeth said as loud as she could but only came out as a
small whisper.

(reply any in the medical bay, Tar or Jared)
 
Elizabeth was still unable to see anything, but she could feel a presence.
She extended her hand in effort to find some one. She felt another hand and
clasped it. "Hello," she said again in a whisper. "What is going on?"
 
Her eyes closed, but she could still hear. Her body lost all strength. She laid
there listening to the hum of the ship.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - Ensign Tar Loxari - 1500)

It was hard for her, but the confusion began to bother
her. She needed to know
what was going on. She pulled more strength that she
did not have to try to
speak. "Hello," Elizabeth said as loud as she could
but only came out as a
small whisper.

Tar turned around.  She was conscious.  He made his
way to her bedside.  He sensed pain, confusion, and
fear.

(Reply: Keller)
 
Elizabeth was still unable to see anything, but she
could feel a presence.
She extended her hand in effort to find some one. She
felt another hand and
clasped it. "Hello," she said again in a whisper.
"What is going on?"

Tar took her hand gently and said "You're alright. 
I'm Dr. Loxari and Dr. Keller and I just performed
some minor surgery to patch up a few wounds.  You just
need to rest right now.  You're under the influence of
a mild general anesthetic but you'll be up and running
in a few minutes.  For now, relax."

(Reply: Keller)
 
Her eyes closed, but she could still hear. Her body
lost all strength. She laid
there listening to the hum of the ship.

(posted by Rhone)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller- 1502)

"Commander Capps..." Jared said and waited for the FO's reply.
 
(Reply: Calvin)
 
"Yes Commander, I'm calling you to report on Ensign Knightley's condition. The surgery was minor and a complete 
success, she should be awake shortly."
 
(Reply: Calvin)
 
"That depends on her recovery time of course but I shouldn't have to hold her more than an hour for observation if 
that. We'll see after she wakes up."
 
Jared saw Tar move over to the woman out of the corner of his eye and wondered faintly why he had not already 
transported back to the cargo bay but shrugged that off, he would go himself if necessary.
 
When the young doctor started talking with her that got Jared's attention. "It appears she's waking up as we speak 
Commander, I'll let you know soon."
 
(Reply: Calvin)
 
After disengaging the comm Jared walked over to the two of them with a smile forming on his face, in his mind he 
could sense her fears subsiding mthanks to Dr. Loxari's ministrations.
"Well, well Ms. Knightley it appears you've come around, how are you feeling?" Jared asked as he took out the small 
medical scanner and ran it over her as he hummed lightly.

(posted by Charles)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1503)

Calvin was picking up a heavy chunk of metal, and placed it inside of a cart.
He watched as an corporal attempted to pick even a heavier one up by himself,
but couldn't. Lt Cmdr Capps walked over to him and grabbed the other side of
it. "Need some help?" he asked as he lifted with his legs.

"Thank you Commander," said the officer.

After a loud clunk noise from the metal Calvin's communicator sounded.
=/\=Commander Capps...=/\= Jared said and waited for the FO's reply.
 
Calvin recognized the voice immediately, and his thought went straight to
Elizabeth's well being. He walked away from the rest of the workers and went inside
of the Commanding Officers Ready Room. Once inside he began to speak to
the Doctor. "Doctor! Do you know anything yet?" Calvin asked with a sincere
tone.

=/\=Yes Commander, I'm calling you to report on Ensign Knightley's condition.
The surgery was minor and a complete success, she should be awake shortly.=/\=
 
~Thank You!~ Calvin exclaimed loudly in his thoughts. "Thank you Doctor. How
long do you think it will be before she can leave sickbay?"
 
=/\=That depends on her recovery time of course but I shouldn't have to hold her
more than an hour for observation if that. We'll see after she wakes up.=/\=
 
Jared saw Tar move over to the woman out of the corner of his eye and
wondered faintly why he had not already transported back to the cargo bay
but shrugged that off, he would go himself if necessary.
 
When the young doctor started talking with her that got Jared's attention. =/\=It
appears she's waking up as we speak Commander, I'll let you know soon.=/\=

"Once again Dr. thank you. Please let her know that I am fine. Capps out."
 
After the comm went silent Calvin let out a large breath of relief. He looked around
the ready room he now stood in and noticed that it was just as bad off as the rest
of the starbase. He began the task of cleaning the office. 

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - Ensign Knightley - 1505)

"You're alright. I'm Dr. Loxari and Dr. Keller and I just performed some minor
surgery to patch up a few wounds. You just need to rest right now.  You're under
the influence of a mild general anesthetic but you'll be up and running in a
few minutes.  For now, relax."
 
Elizabeth knew the name Dr. Keller, but she could not remember the doctor that
was talking to her. However she did just what he said. She laid on the bed,
and relaxed.
 
"Well, well Ms. Knightley it appears you've come around, how are you feeling?"
Jared asked as he took out the small medical scanner and ran it over her as
he hummed lightly.
 
When she heard the voice of a Dr. Keller it made her feel better knowing that a
doctor she knew was at her side. "I am feeling tired doctor. I am in a little pain, but
not much. Do you know what happened to me." she whispered.
 
(reply both, either)
 
"Well thank you doctors. I appreciate both of you."
 
(reply both, either)
 
Her thoughts started to come around, and she remembered more about the battle
of starbase 234. "Wait, how is the battle going. Is Calvin...Cmdr Capps ok?"

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Medical Bay - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller- 1506)

"I am feeling tired doctor. I am in a little pain, but not much. Do you know what happened to me." she whispered.
 
"The report I received regarding your injuries was that you were caught in an explosion on the bridge," Jared said as 
he paused the scanner for a moment over her cranium and watched the panel above the bed closely, satisfied he switched 
the scanner off with an audible click and smiled down at the young woman who had closed her eyes.
 
"Well thank you doctors. I appreciate both of you."
 
"You're very welcome," Jared said. "Next time you visit sickbay though please try to do so while erect." He grinned 
then to show he was joking.
 
 "Wait, how is the battle going. Is Calvin...Cmdr Capps ok?" She asked timidly.
 
"Commander Capps is fine though he was in a bit of shock when he brought you to the cargo bay. I just talked with 
him a moment ago and he is relieved you are doing well. By the way do you need a neural receptor block for that headache?"

(posted by Charles)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron & FO Lt. Commander Capps - 1512) 

Kyp got up and wiped sweat from his brow. He and Matrix had managed to get 
Main Ops running a bit. They had repaired a wall of panels and had connected them 
to the computer. Other specialized engineers had moved in along with other operations 
officers to open up the computer, so Kyp moved out of the way to let 
them work. He headed over to where Commander Capps was speaking with 
some other members of the crew to give him an update. He stood to the side a bit 
and waited for him to finish.
 
Calvin was speaking to another engineer about how to safely move the 
destroyed metal pieces that were lying around on the main ops floor. The 
engineer agreed with his assessment and walked away. Calvin turned his body 
toward Kyp. "Report."
 
Kyp stepped up and pulled his scattered thoughts to the matter at hand. "Sir, 
we've managed to effect minimum repairs to Main Ops. We have about 40 percent of 
it back online and the operations officers along with some engineers are trying 
to reroute command of the main computer to here. Also, we've taken control of 
the internal comm systems of the station." 
 
"Good. Ensign K'Palla continuous to work on the encryption codes." Calvin 
looked around the room for a second. "Now that we have internal comm back on-line 
I need you to go down to engineering and start accessing how bad it is and 
start repairs. Lt. Matrix will stay up here and continue repairs."
 
Kyp looked off to the side, though he wasn't looking at anything. He was reviewing 
the map he had seen of the building. "Yes, sir, but will I be going through areas of 
the base being defended by the enemy?"
 
"No you will take a safe route that will lead you to engineering. You will 
be accompanied by a security officer. I will ask for additional engineering crew 
from the fleet. They will beam in engineering directly. Unless you have anything 
to add, you are dismissed."
 
Kyp tapped his chin in thought before answering. "Don't try to rush them to 
do anything with the power systems on the station. We have a very tenuous hold 
on the stability of this section as it is. Other than that, there is nothing pressing that 
I think you should be aware of."
 
"We will take this one step at a time, Ensign," Capps replied.
 
Kyp nodded. "Very well, sir. I will be going now."
 
Calvin watched Kyp and the security officer walk away, and leave main ops. 
"Ensign Durron. Contact me as soon as you are down there. I shall need 
another report."
 
"Aye, sir," Kyp saluted as he and the security officer left Main Ops. Their trip down 
to Main Engineering was uneventful, other than that they were stopped at 
various points to identify their identities. As they walked in, Kyp found himself to 
be quite surprised that engineering hadn't been beaten up as bad as Ops in the 
battle for it. The warp core was stable, if running a little weak, but most of the 
panels had been smashed. He tapped his comm badge. =/\=Durron to 
Commander Capps.=/\=
 
Calvin tapped his badge. "Go ahead."
 
=/\=Main Engineering is in moderately okay condition. We will have to repair 
almost all the panels here, reroute the power and communication lines, et cetera 
et cetera. At a glance, we should have it up and running in one to three hours.=/\=
 
"Do what you have to do. Keep me apprised. Capps out."

(posted by Calvin and Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Jefferies Tube 12 - Ensign Zack Tristen - 1523)

Zack was tired of doing all the dirty work in Engineering. He wished he could just
pass it along to a less experienced  Ensign, but he knew it would need to be done
the first time...not the third.
 
Ensign Tristen continued to crawl through the jefferies tube. He counted each panel
as he passed them until he came to the 37th one which was more than halfway.
 
He took a deep breath and he was hesitant to take the panel off the wall. He
was dreading to see what was behind it. Once un-latched Zack placed it on to
the ground beside him. He looked up at all the circuity, conduits, and relays or...
what was left of them.
 
"Damn War!" Zack exclaimed to no one except himself, but also to everyone in
the universe. There was at least a few hours of work for him to do if he had to do it
by himself.
 
Zack began by using his relay ratchet to deactivate part of the main-flow stream.
As he worked he despised Chief Sarouk for sending half the Engineering crew over
to Starbase 234; Ensign Tristen exaggerated, but it made him feel good.
 
After only a few minutes of work Zack became bored, and tapped his
communicator, "Ensign Tristen to Cmdr Sarouk."
 
(reply Sarouk)
 
"I REQUIRE assistance sir!" Zack reported with his teeth clinched. After all he
was still speaking to a superior officer.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1532)

"Qaplas!  Commander, the Science Station is up and running!  Diagnostics show
that the Main Computer went into hibernation mode during the attack.  Once I
break the encryption's, I will able to bring it up to full operating capacity!"
 
"Good." Calvin quickly responded to the Science Officers report. Calvin then
walked over to her station. He stood shoulder to shoulder with the Klingon. "How
long do you think it will be for you to break the code?"

(reply K'Palla)
 
"I need you to work on it fast. As soon as you are done with that. Began working
on the scanners and sensors. If Doenitz decides to send a war fleet of his own we
this starbase needs to know about."

Calvin had already requested additional personnel to come aboard Starbase
234. Much work needed to be done every where. Ensign K'Palla continued working
on her console. Calvin turned to one of his hardest working Engineers.
 
Lt Cmdr Capps was happy to have the Paladin's former Engineering Chief
back aboard. "Lt," Calvin spoke up louder than a normal tone.
(reply Matrix)

"Report," Calvin demanded as he walked closer to Lt. Matrix.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1533)

"Qaplas!  Commander, the Science Station is up and running!  Diagnostics show
that the Main Computer went into hibernation mode during the attack.  Once I
break the encryption's, I will able to bring it up to full operating capacity!"
 
"Good." Calvin quickly responded to the Science Officers report. Calvin then
walked over to her station. He stood shoulder to shoulder with the Klingon. "How
long do you think it will be for you to break the code?"

"Unknown, sir.... I will compare encrytions to known Starfleet codes then extrapolate from them if they are unsuccessful." 
explained K'Palla.
 
"I need you to work on it fast. As soon as you are done with that, begin working
on the scanners and sensors. If Doenitz decides to send a war fleet of his own we
this starbase needs to know about." said Capps.
 
"Yessir." replied the Klingon, as she set herself into her work.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:34)

Once Rana had pressed the doorchime, she heard Kerge say "Enter," from within. She walked into the office and sttod in 
front of his desk.

"What can I do for you Ensign?", said Kerge.
 
"Sir," she said, "As you may or may not know, there were some Marines captured from the boarding party earlier this 
morning. They are now safely in the brig. I have come to you to ask your permission to extract any information that 
I can from them. Would that be acceptable?"

(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:35)

"What can I do for you Ensign?", said Kerge.
 
"Sir," said Apar, "As you may or may not know, there
were some Marines captured from the boarding party
earlier this morning. They are now safely in the brig.
I have come to you to ask your permission to extract
any information that I can from them. Would that be
acceptable?", said Ensign Apar.

Kerge leaned forwards in his chair & placed his hands
onto the table at the Ensigns words.

"I am the security chief Ensign", said Kerge, "I would
not be much of a chief if I did not know who was in
our brig", he added.

"However, I very much doubt they will be forthcoming
if you interrogated them, they would not have much
honour within them if they gave us Admiral Doenitz`s
secrets so easily", said Kerge. "But....so long as you
follow starfleet regulations, you may of course
question any of the officers we are holding......",
said Kerge.

(Reply Apar)

"Keep me informed of anything you may learn Ensign",
said Kerge.

(posted by Alan)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:36)

"Sir," said Rana, "As you may or may not know, there were some Marines captured from the boarding party earlier this 
morning. They are now safely in the brig. I have come to you to ask your permission to extract any information that I 
can from them. Would that be acceptable?"

Kerge leaned forwards in his chair & placed his hands onto the table at her words.

"I am the security chief Ensign", he said, "I would not be much of a chief if I did not know who was in our brig", he 
added.

"However, I very much doubt they will be forthcoming if you interrogated them, they would not have much honour within 
them if they gave us Admiral Doenitz`s secrets so easily", said Kerge. "But....so long as you follow starfleet 
regulations, you may of course question any of the officers we are holding......", said Kerge.

"Thank you sir."

"Keep me informed of anything you may learn Ensign", said Kerge.
 
"Of course, sir." With that, she turned on her heels and walked out of the office, headed for the brig.

(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234, Outside Cargo bay 3 - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 1540)

Rellam stood with what was left of his squad outside the cargo bay
three, they had finally managed to take Engineering, but only after he
had lost two more marines to injuries.  His squad was down to 8 men,
of the four missing, one was dead, one gravely injured and probably
wouldn't make it, the other two were out with minor to moderate
injuries but would survive.  The Doenitz Marines had fought back hard,
and worked to make the 52nd fleet Marines pay for every inch of ground
that wanted, and now they were threatening to blow up the station.  It
was a bit of an understatement to say Rellam was not a fan of Scorched
Earth tactics.

An explosive expert had been sent in to disable to bomb that had been
set up, and was going to signal when they were successful.  Besides
Rellam's squad, there were four other squads waiting to go in on the
signal.  A Recon squad and a Rifle Squad were going in on the upper
gangway, and Rellam's Squad and two Heavy Assault Squads were ready to
go in through the ground level doors as soon as they were given the
signal.

Rellam waited calmly, leaning back against the wall outside the door. 
His team waited around him, some of the eager others nervous.  Rellam
quietly watched as the squads newest private paced back and forth. 
Rellam couldn't see the privates face, but he knew that if he could he
would see the private talking to himself, trying desperately to calm
himself down.

Rellam quietly opened up a comm line directly to the private, no one
else would know the two were even talking.  "Penn, I want you to talk
a deep breath and answer a question for me."

=/= Aye, Gunny,=/= Private Penn said, as he stopped his pacing and
stood still for the first time in about half an hour, one of the other
Marines from their squad looked up at Penn, who was staring down at
the floor, and then over at Rellam who looked like he always did,
relaxed.  The Marine visibly shrugged and went back to doing what ever
he had been doing.

"How long have you been out of Boot?"  Rellam asked, his voice calm
and relaxed, sounding more like he was talking to an old friend over a
glass of even older whiskey, than like he was ready to step into
battle.

=/= Six Months, Gunny,=/= Penn said, his voice wavering a little less
than it had been.

"I assume you were assigned to this squad right out of boot then?" 
Rellam asked.

=/=Aye, Gunny=/=

"How many times have you been deployed on a mission like this, a full 
on fight?"

=/= Just this once Gunny, never expected to be in a war.=/=  Penn
said, sounding more than a little scared.

"No one expects to be in a war Private, but we do what needs to be
done."  Rellam said, his voice calm, yet touched with a hint of
sadness.

=/=How many wars have you seen, Gunny?=/=  Penn asked.

"Too many, Penn.  But in the end, they are all the same, the targets
change, the theaters of war are different, but a war is a war." 
Rellam said, thinking of all the friends he had lost in the past
conflicts.  It didn't matter much to Rellam that this was the first
actually declared war he had been in, Not calling a conflict a war
didn't make it any less of one.  There was a long pause where neither
Rellam or Penn said anything, but it was Penn who broke the silence.

=/= I shouldn't be this afraid, Gunny.=/= Penn said, turning to look
in the Gunny's direction for the first time in the conversation.

"Fear isn't a  bad thing Penn, you'll learn that as you see more
action.  Fear is normal, and it is good, in limited doses.  Your fear
will keep you on your toes, make sure you think decisions through,
just don't let it control you.  It's your mind, and it's your body,
you are in control.  Now take a deep breath and relax, I'm don't
loosing squad members today, so you missed your chance at getting
wounded, you can try again on the next mission."  Rellam said,
dispensing some sage advice, advice that had been given to him what
seemed like a lifetime ago.  Penn chuckled then slowly walked over to
the rest of the squad and leaned back against the wall, turning to
talk to one of the other privates.

Rellam smiled a smile no one would see, thanks to his helmet's visor
being down, and leaned back against the wall.  Looking at his helmet's
display he noticed that he and his squad had been linked into an ad
hoc comm system for the cargo bay strike force.  The Platoon sized
group was now able to communicate with each other, even though they
were all from different units.  Rellam looked around at the two heavy
assault squads that were waiting with them to go through the door, and
noticed that each of them had a sniper and spotter with them.  Due to
the nature of the base assault, many of the Heavy assault and Recon
squads had exchanged fire teams so that they could better handle on
the situations.

Rellam smiled when he heard someone start to hum a familiar tune over
the ad hoc comm system.  Soon another person started humming, and soon
there was a third person singing.  The song was a sad lament, one
written by a Marine Corps Sniper, many years ago, but which was still
used as the Sniper hymn.  Soon there were at least 10 Snipers and
Spotters singing the hymn, Rellam included.  Looking over, he saw his
squad looking around.  As suddenly as the singing had started the
singing ended, as they had been given the green light to breach the
cargo bay.  Rellam switched to his Squad comm and stacked his squad
behind one of the Heavy assault squads at the cargo bay doors.

The officer in charge of the strike force Platoon, set a count down
until entry, the number flashing on the inside of everyone's mask. 
Within a minute of being stacked there was a large bang and the sound
of metal doors screeching against their gears as they were forced
open.  In one single and fluid motion, the Platoon breached the cargo
bay and moved in to take the battle to the Enemy.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Deck 27, Brig - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:40)

Rana strolled into the brig, a PADD in hand. She nodded to the guard, and he understood. The force fields on all but 
one became transluscent. The captured Marines in those cells could no longer see or hear beyond the cell's confines. 
She walked over to the one that wasn't opaque. It contained one downtrodden, yet determined Marine of maybe 20. He was 
about 1.76 meters tall, well built, with short blond hair and cold blue eyes. She addressed him directly. "Lance 
Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne, I presume?"

(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Deck 27, Brig - Lance Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne- 15:40)

Rana strolled into the brig, a PADD in hand. She nodded to the guard, and he understood. The force fields on all but 
one became transluscent. The captured Marines in those cells could no longer see or hear beyond the cell's confines. 
She walked over to the one that wasn't opaque. It contained one downtrodden, yet determined Marine of maybe 20. He 
was about 1.76 meters tall, well built, with short blond hair and cold blue eyes. She addressed him directly. "Lance 
Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne, I presume?"
 
Chirs looked up and glared, "Why are you presuming? You know who I am." Chris was determined not to give these 
people an easy time. Traitors to the Federation all, they were. They were beneath his attention. He felt disgusted 
that he was captured by the likes of them. He spat at her, but the spittle disintegrated against the forcefield. 

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Deck 27, Brig - Lance Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:41)

Rana strolled into the brig, a PADD in hand. She nodded to the guard, and he understood. The force fields on all 
but one became transluscent. The captured Marines in those cells could no longer see or hear beyond the cell's 
confines. She walked over to the one that wasn't opaque. It contained one downtrodden, yet determined Marine of 
maybe 20. He was about 1.76 meters tall, well built, with short blond hair and cold blue eyes. She addressed him 
directly. "Lance Corporal Christopher Michael Gagne, I presume?"
 
Chirs looked up and glared, "Why are you presuming? You know who I am." Chris was determined not to give these 
people an easy time. Traitors to the Federation all, they were. They were beneath his attention. He felt disgusted 
that he was captured by the likes of them. He spat at her, but the spittle disintegrated against the forcefield.
 
Rana's stern glare turned hostile. She didn't have to take that from him, and she wasn't going to. She stood tall, 
and said, "Now we can do this the easy way or the hard way, which would you prefer?"
 
Chris leaned back in the cell. He didn't really care if he hurt the precious little feelings of some semi-Ensign 
security officer. He yawned, "You choose, I'm not in the mood."
 
"You should know that you won't hurt my feelings, Gagne. And taking a completely nonchalant stance on this will not 
help matters much for you."
 
Chris grinned at her. "Okay...Warrant Officer," he squinted, pretending to misread her pips.
 

She found that to be a failed attempt at humor, ignored it, and proceeded. "Now, tell me about this ship you came 
from, the USS Archer, correct?"
 
Chris smiled to himself. "The Archer was a good ship. We didn't have to deal with prissy little ensigns who thought 
they were so important that they could frighten a marine into giving away information."
 
"Oh, I'm not going to scare it out of you. There are many more...subtle ways of getting information. Something you 
might not know about me is that I am Betazoid."
 
"Pfft, please excuse me if I'm not worried now. I've been trained to resist telepathic intrustions." He turned away 
from her, "Now, would you get someone a little more threatening to interrogate me? I'm afraid I find it to be too 
comical for you to do it."
 
"Well, let's see. You can cooperate, tell me the truth the FIRST TIME, and this will be easy for you. Should you 
refuse and lie, I will know, and this will not be as...pleasant as it would otherwise be for you."
 
Chris hummed a tune to himself. "Well, I guess this will have to be unpleasant, because I'm not going to betray 
the Federation to a bunch of renegades who only want power for themselves."
 
Rana nodded. "I see. So you want to play ball, huh? Computer, raise the temperature within Gagne's cell 5 degrees 
and 10% humidity." The computer chirped in response. "The truth is, we wish to give power back to the people, 
unlike Doenitz, who has taken it all for himself. So, would you so kindly indulge me as to what you know of your 
fleet's deployment?"
 
Chris pulled his shirt off with the rise in temperature. He grinned at the security officer before him. "Now, 
don't get too excited about seeing me with my shirt off. Hmm, fleet deployment. Well, we have ships...and we are 
protecting the citizens from the Federation from the likes of you."
 
Rana was unimpressed. "Does 'protecting' include leveling planetary capitals? Because if it does, I must have 
been reading the wrong dictionaries. And by the way, I'm engaged. Not that you'd have a chance if I wasn't. So, 
would you like to answer the question, or would you like to wait until it feels hotter and damper than a jungle?"
 
Chris frowned, "Okay, this game is over. I'm not going to tell you anything, and torturing me would ruin the 
information in my head. I'm not going to sit here and humor a little girl who thinks she's being 'noble.' "
 
"'Noblility' has nothing to do with it. It is only because of the rules of engagement that I don't come in there 
and pommel it out of you. Computer, raise the temperature and humidity another 5 degrees and 10%. If you don't 
talk, I will have to get backup, and you won't like the backup."
 
Chris tapped his chin thoughtfully, "You know, that's just like a woman to need a man to back her up."
 
"I wouldn't need it if you weren't so obstinate." She tapped her communicator. "Ensign Apar to Kerge, sir I need 
you down here in the brig."
 
(reply Kerge)
 
Chris smiled, "Ah, so you do admit that you don't have what it takes in you to get what you need out of me?" He 
was starting to sweat a lot, and the cell was becoming very uncomfortable.
 
"That may be the case, that may not be. So, how's it feel in there? Kind of like summer back home in New England? 
How about we go up 5 more degrees and another 10% humidity?" The computer chirped and the relative temperature 
jumped up again.
 
Chris closed his eyes and started taking calm, controlled breaths. He sat with his legs folded beneath him with 
his hands clasped. "Yes, it is warm and muggy in here, but I'm from the southern part of the former United States. 
It gets much warmer and muggier down there. You won't get anything out of me that is useful. If you have time to 
waste we can spend it here. You're an attractive woman. I'm sure I can...entertain you."
 
"Well, as I said before, I'm engaged. So, how about hiking it up double? Computer, raise the temperature another 
10 degrees and 20% humidity."
 
Chris was breathing heavily by now. He felt like he was in a broken sauna. He managed to pant out, "I. won't. 
tell. you. anything."
 
"I see," she said. "If you're a Southerner, let's see how you deal with this: computer, reduce temperature to 0 
degrees Centigrade and 30% humidity."
 
His body twitched violently at the sudden temperature drop. He was sure he'd pass out from going into shock, but 
sadly he didn't. "Okay...it's cold in here. Stop it, or kill me."
 
"Ah, it seems we're getting somewhere. How about this: I'll return the temperature and humidity to normal if you 
tell me what you know about the deployment of your fleet."
 
Chirs involuntarily started chattering his teeth, but he pulled resolve from deep within himself. "I will tell..
y-you...n-nothing. You may as well k-kill me and get it over w-with." Chris was a loyal man and wasn't going to 
be a traitor to the Federation.
 
Rana made a sympathetic sound. "Unfortunately I'm not authorized to kill you, but I'm authorized to wait here as 
long as necessary. So, tell me, you're married, aren't you, with two children?"
 
Chris turned away from her and pulled his shirt back on. He rubbed his cold arms with his hands. "Die, bitch."
 
"Hmm, now why would I wan to do that? Just think, if you die in here, what would your wfe think? Your children?"
 
Chris held in the pain of losing his family; he would not crack at the work of this...child. "They would know that 
I died fighting for what was right."
 
"I can sense your pain. Why not let me get rid of it for you? Just tell me what I need to know."
 
Chris took a deep breath of the freezing, damp air and coughed. "No. I can't do that."
 
Very well," she said. She sat down on the floor, crossing her legs, and making a note on her PADD. "I'm surprised. 
I thought the Marines were supposed to be tough. Where I come from, what you're experiencing would still be 
considered picnic weather."
 
Chris turned back around and glared at her. "Then why don't you come in here and have a picnic, then?"
 
Rana laughed and shrugged. "Persistent, aren't we? I would, but I'm not in the mood. However, I will throw in a 
couple extra replicator rations for you if you tell me your fleet's deployment. Maybe then you could have a picnic
for yourself."
 
Chris leaned back against the bulkhead and drew his legs up to his chest to concentrate his body heat. He closed 
his eyes, feeling his stregnth drain in the moist, cold atmosphere. "We can be no more, and no less, than what we 
are. I'm a loyal marine. I cannot and will not give you the information I have."
 
Rana read his thoughts. "Hmmm, you are telling the truth. You're a low-ranking officer, and know nothing other 
than the deployment of your own ship. It seems that I have wasted my time here. Good day, Mr. Gagne. For your sake, 
I hope we don't meet again." She stood, turned, and said, "Computer, return environmental controls to normal." She 
turned back. "Now, is there anything else you'd like to tell me before I leave?"
 
"No." Chris smiled inwardly. He was glad that he had learned to project only his surface thoughts. It kept him from 
giving her more than she expected from him. He continued to look like a beaten marine and laid back on the floor. 
"Just go away and bother someone else. I don't have the patience to deal with you anymore."
 
"Very well," she said, as Kerge walked in.

(posted by Ben and Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1542)

"Oww!" Kyp exclaimed as something hit his head. He looked up and glared, "Who did that!"
 
A young crewman looked down with a sheepish look on his face. "Uh, sorry, sir. I dropped my tricorder."
 
Kyp rubbed the back of his head. "Well, just watch your tools. People are gonna get hurt around here if you keep that up."
 
The crewman turned red. "Aye, sir."
 
Kyp went back to reconnecting the injector coils for the warp core that he was replacing with two other engineers. 
Engineering was coming along quickly. They all knew the importance of quickly affecting repairs in case they had to 
fight off a fleet by the enemy. He turned to Warrant Officer Daniels. "Daniels, how are we looking?"
 
Daniels handed over a PADD with updates. "Well, sir, the warp core is looking good. The backup warp core in secondary 
engineering is weak from a busted plasma manifold. We're working on getting that one up and running again. The 
starbase defenses are slowly being put back together, but we only have enough power conduits for minimal defense."
 
Kyp nodded at the news. "What about shielding?"
 
"Well...it's taking longer than expected on getting them back up. Our fleet literally smashed a lot of the deflector 
arrays and getting the replacement parts is rough."
 
Kyp frowned, "Repairs here are coming steady. Thank you, Daniels."
 
The warrant officer saluted and moved off to continue his work. Kyp tapped his commbadge, "Durron to Commander Capps."
 
(reply Capps)
 
"Repairs in main engineering are coming along well. We should be back to minimal operations in about twenty minutes 
and full capacity in little over two hours. I'm afraid to inform you that the tacitcal and defense systems are giving 
us some trouble to repair. The shields took a heavy beating from our fleet and are going to take some time to repair. 
Also, the starbase defenses are going to take some time to bring back online until we can fix the power distribution 
throughout the starbase. Critical EPS nodes were destroyed during the battle and too much power is being forced 
through the surviving ones. All-in-all, it'll take about five hours to bring this station back to minimal 
capabilities to withstand an onslaught."
 
(reply Capps)
 
"Hmm, I think I can push it to maybe four and a half hours, but I can't promise any sooner than that."
 
(reply Capps)
 
"Aye, sir. Durron out."
 
Kyp climbed up a ladder onto the second floor of engineering. He was looking at a display with a few other engineers. 
One, a chief petty officer, spoke up. "If you can get a team in there we could have the starboard shielding back online 
in about a half hour."
 
An ensign shook her head, "No, we check already. The entire array is gone."
 
Kyp saw what they were looking at and presented an idea. "We don't need to rebuild the old one. Look here and here," 
he pointed, "These shield arrays are fine. If we take a backup from one of the larger ships like the Paladin, we can 
use it to reinforce the two that work. Yes, it won't be as strong as before, but we will have the starboard side 
up and running."
 
The female ensign turned to two others, "You heard the man. Hop to it!" The crewmen rushed off to follow the orders." 
She turned back to Kyp. "What about the main EPS node that was damaged? How are your teams coming?"
 
Kyp frowned and rubbed his chin. "They should have it back up in about ten minutes. That will take the power burden 
from the remaining six. We can then use more of the power the warp core is putting out. Ensign, what are we looking 
at on tactical?"
 
She shook her head, "Let's just say our fleet knows how to do its job."
 
"That bad?"
 
"Yeah."
 
"Any chance of getting it back up in four hours?"
 
She paused in thought, "We could have shields back up and a few torpedo launchers. Phaser arrays and strips are an 
unkown. We haven't even gotten to some of the areas because the marines and security are making it hard." Some 
sparks showered down, making them cover their heads. "We can only do our best, but I'm sure we can make this 
station somewhat defendable in the four hour time-limit."
 
"Good." Kyp tapped his commbadge, "Durron to K'Palla. How are things coming with the computer?"
 
(reply K'Palla)
 
After speaking with K'Palla, Kyp called Commander Capps again. "Durron to Commander Capps. We can have the shields 
back up in about three hours. The starboard shielding will be up up in about forty minutes and the rest should be 
up about two hours after that. Torpedo launchers and phasers are an unkown to us as we don't have access to the 
internal scanners yet because of the computer lockouts."
 
(reply Capps)
 
"Aye, sir. Durron out."

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Security Centre - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:43)

=/\=Ensign Apar to Kerge, sir I need you down here in
the brig=/\=

Kerge tapped at his combadge in responce to the hail.

"What is it that you require Ensign?", said Kerge.

(Reply Apar)

"I will be there shortly", said Kerge as he put down
the PADD he had been reading & headed out through the
door towards the turbolift.

(posted by Alan)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1543)

Calvin had returned to the Main Ops area after he had half way cleaned the
ready room. For the bigger and heavier items Calvin assigned a 2 man team to
the specific room.
 
In main ops there was more repairs going on on the computer than there was with
just simple cleaning. Lt Cmdr Capps was proud of his team already. Cleaning
was going smoothly and quickly. All that needed to be was dusting for the most
part. Calvin laughed at the thought of him with a duster in his head.
 
=/\=Durron to Commander Capps.=/\=
 
"Give me good news Mr. Durron." Capps responded.
 
=/\=Repairs in main engineering are coming along well. We should be back to
minimal operations in about twenty minutes and full capacity in little over two
hours. I'm afraid to inform you that the tactical and defense systems are giving
us some trouble to repair. The shields took a heavy beating from our fleet and
are going to take some time to repair. Also, the starbase defenses are going to
take some time to bring back online until we can fix the power distribution
throughout the starbase. Critical EPS nodes were destroyed during the battle and
too much power is being forced through the surviving ones. All-in-all, it'll take about
five hours to bring this station back to minimal capabilities to withstand
an onslaught.=/\=
 
"It sounds like you have alot of work to get done. I hope I have provided you
with enough engineers. If I was able to give you more men do you think it would
go any faster?"

=/\=Hmm, I think I can push it to maybe four and a half hours, but I can't promise
any sooner than that.=/\=
 
"Very well. With fleet wide repairs I won't be able to give you any more engineers.
Do your best Mr. Durron. Capps out."
 
=/\=Aye, sir. Durron out.=/\=
 
Lt Cmdr Capps then left Main Ops and entered into the Ready Room once again.
The team he had assigned had already cleaned more than 3/4 of it. He went
behind the desk and said down int he chair.
 
=/\=Durron to Commander Capps. We can have the shields back up in about
three hours. The starboard shielding will be up up in about forty minutes and the
rest should be up about two hours after that. Torpedo launchers and phasers are
an unknown to us as we don't have access to the internal scanners yet because
of the computer lockouts.=/\=
 
"Thank you." Capps responded.
 
=/\=Aye, sir. Durron out.=/\=
 
The starbase was bustling with good news and reports so far. Calvin didn't want to
be negative, but he was waiting for something to go wrong. But he hoped
nothing would.
 
=/\=Commander, this is K'Palla!  I've gained access to the Main computer and
am bringing main systems on-line now!=/\= she reported.
 
Calvin jumped to his feet. "I am coming to Ensign K'Palla." Calvin walked out of
the office and went straight over to Ensign K'Palla. "Good work. Give sensors as
much power as you can and start scanning."

"Lt Matrix. We now have computers back on line. Start running all diagnostics
and began any repairs in order of necessity."

Starbase 234 just got a littler busier.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO LT JG Steven Matrix - 1543)

Matrix had spent the last few hours working to repair anything and
everything on the Starbase. Operations was slowing coming back to life.
Engineering teams were all over the station making repairs as fast as
possible. Things were looking up and at most system were running again 
at
some level. 

The commander shouted, "Lt Matrix. We now have computers back on line. 
Start
running all diagnostics and began any repairs in order of necessity."

Matrix turned in the direction of the commander, "Aye sir, diagnostic
routines already running. We'll keep you posted on repairs as we learn
more." 

Matrix returned to his immediate task of stabilizing the power flow 
into the
engineering panels and sensor systems. Matrix smiled as the first 
diagnostic
results streamed on the display panel. "Good," Matrix said in a low 
voice,
"very good." 

Over the next half hour Matrix sat at the main console reprogramming 
the
command paths while the results of each systems diagnostics were 
reported on
the display. 

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1545)

K'Palla linked her tricroder to the Paladin's main computer to research the Starbase encryption codes.  Standard 
Starfleet encryption codes didn't work.  K'Palla researched Starfleet archives for past code variants and that too 
proved ineffective.  Considering this was a rebellion faction, the Klingon began looking into code variants from 
different rebellion groups, Maquis, Bajoran and finally looked into the the more recent rebellions: The Cardassian 
rebellions against the Klingon invasion and during the Dominion War.
 
"Paladin Computer, apply encryption codes from Cardassian rebellions to Starbase input channel!" she ordered the 
computer.
 
|| Working. ||  a chime rang, and the Starbase computer spoke.  || Access denied. ||
 
K'Palla slammed her fist on the console, in frustration.  ~~ Time for a different approach. ~~
 
"Paladin Computer, can you determine the nature of the access code?  Is it a sequence of numbers, or a word or string 
of words?" she asked.
 
|| Working.  Access code is a single word. ||  was the reply.
 
~~ Fine, then I'm try the most obvious one! ~~  She typed in 'Doenitz'.
 
|| Working.  Access granted. ||  "QAPLAS!" shouted K'Palla, as her commbadge beeped.
 
=^= Durron to K'Palla. How are things coming with the computer? =^= he asked.
 
"We're in, K'yp!  Bringing systems on-line now!" K'Palla said proudly.
 
As main systems were being brought on-line, the entire station started to return to life.  She commed to Commander Capps.
 
"Commander, this is K'Palla!  I've gained access to the Main computer and am bringing main systems on-line now!" she 
reported.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1545)

"Commander, this is K'Palla!  I've gained access to the Main computer and am bringing main systems on-line now!" she 
reported.
 
The Commander walked out of the office and went straight over to Ensign K'Palla. "Good work. Give sensors as much power 
as you can and start scanning."
 
"Aye, sir!" replied the Klingon.  As she brought up the scanners, she was obviously impressed with them.  Starbase 
scanners were much more powerful and highly detailed.  K'Palla figured she could find a Denobulan toenail clipping 
in the Delta Quadrant from here.
 
"Scanners online and running, sir!" she reported, then added her results.  "Nothing in the immediate vicinity except 
for our vessels, sir!"

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Deck 27 - Brig - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:46)

"Just go away and bother someone else. I don't have
the patience to deal with you anymore.", said the
aggrieved sounding voice within the cell the TAC/SC
had just been approaching.
 
"Very well", said Apar as Kerge entered the brig to
see a marine seated against the wall in the process of
putting his shirt back on.

Kerge glared towards Ensign Apar with a look of
concern upon his face.

"What has been happening here Ensign?", said Kerge as
the marine all of a sudden sat up & took notice of the
big Klingons presence.

(Reply Apar)

Kerge turned & glared at the marine where he remained
against the wall now fully clothed again.

"I did not think you would get anything out of him",
said Kerge, "If he had been on a Klingon vessel I
would have killed him where he stood if he had
betrayed his own", he added whilst the marine simply
cocked a snoot in his direction. Kerge growled in
responce & advanced upon the man to lift him bodilly
into the air with one hand.

"Be thankful that you are indeed on a starfleet vessel
& not a Klingon one", said Kerge agressively as he
held the man aloft for a short while before
uncerimoniously dropping him to the floor again prior
to leaving the cell.

"Your report Ensign Apar", said Kerge. "Did you learn
anything at all?", he added.

(posted by Alan)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Deck 27 - Brig - ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 15:47)

"Just go away and bother someone else. I don't have the patience to deal with you anymore.", said the aggrieved sounding 
voice within the cell the TAC/SC had just been approaching.
 
"Very well", said Apar as Kerge entered the brig to see a marine seated against the wall in the process of putting his 
shirt back on.

Kerge glared towards Ensign Apar with a look of concern upon his face.

"What has been happening here Ensign?", said Kerge as the marine all of a sudden sat up & took notice of the big Klingons 
presence.

"Well, I learned that he's not going to crack easily. I've almost got him, though. I think that I won't have much more 
sway over him now."

Kerge turned & glared at the marine where he remained against the wall now fully clothed again.

"I did not think you would get anything out of him", said Kerge, "If he had been on a Klingon vessel I would have killed 
him where he stood if he had betrayed his own", he added whilst the marine simply cocked a snoot in his direction. Kerge 
growled in responce & advanced upon the man to lift him bodilly into the air with one hand.

"Be thankful that you are indeed on a starfleet vessel & not a Klingon one", said Kerge agressively as he held the man 
aloft for a short while before uncerimoniously dropping him to the floor again prior to leaving the cell.

"Your report Ensign Apar", said Kerge. "Did you learn anything at all?", he added.

"I learned that he is hiding something. I believe that you may be able to get it out if you work on him awhile." She 
handed him the PADD. "Everything is there, I suggest you look over it. Do you need me here any longer?"
 
(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Deck 27 - Brig - TAC/SC Kerge - 15:49)

"Your report Ensing Apar, did you learn anything at
all", said Kerge.

"I learned that he is hiding something", said Apar. "I
believe that you may be able to get it out if you work
on him a while.", she added as she handed him the PADD
she had been using to compile the results of her
interogation.

"Everything is there, I suggest you look over it. Do
you need me here any longer?", said Apar.

"No ensign, you may return to your prior assignments
or you may attend to those pending", said Kerge as he
walked off with the thoughts of the cocky young marine
still fixed firmly in his head.

As to wether he would indeed have wrung anything out
of the mans flailing body as he throttled him
senceless however, that was anyones guess, for now
anyway he would sleep well....

(posted by Alan)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234, Cargo Bay 3 - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 1555)

Rellam followed his squad into the cargo bay, which was blazing with
phaser fire from the Doenitz loyalists and the Heavy Assault teams
that had gone in first.  They didn't know exactly how many loyalists
were in the bay, but it looked to Rellam as if most of them were
Marines or Security, which made some kind of sense as they would have
been the two groups most able to deal with a running fire fight to get
to the Bay in the first place.  As it was they were putting up one
hell of a fight.  The heavy assault teams were just pounding away at
the areas that the Loyalists had managed to entrench themselves.  The
Bay must have been a contingency plan, as they had managed to set up
portable shield generators, and they had way to many ultra dense, and
phaser absorbent materials stocked in this bay.

As befitted a Starbase of that size, the Cargo bay was literally a
maze of containers and parts, supplies and other assorted items, it
made the bay a particularly nasty place to to have any type of fight. 
Heavy assault teams were pushing into the maze while their grenadiers
were pounding the 'base' are of the loyalists.  Recon Sappers were
working on disarming what booby traps the loyalists had set while the
Infantry and Rellam's Squad tried to gain a foot hold on the starboard
side of the bay.  Rellam had his crew working hard to batter down the
Loyalists defenses as they very slowly moved from cover to cover. 
After a while they had made it about half way to the back side of the
bay when his comm line buzzed.

=\= Overwatch to Strike 4 leader, Freeze and hold, now!=\=  Rellam
stopped dead in his tracks, moving only enough to put his foot on the
ground and relay the freeze command to his squad.  You didn't question
a freeze command from Overwatch, that's what they were there for, to
watch for things the Marine on the ground couldn't see.  Even Generals
stopped when Overwatch told them to freeze.

"What's wrong Overwatch?"  Rellam asked calmly his rifle pointing
straight in front of him.

=\= ten feet ahead of you is a pathway leading to the port side of the
Bay, 50 feet down that path are 4 tangos moving slowly in your
direction=\=

"Acknowledged overwatch, are their any friendlies within 30 feet from
the location of the junction?"

=\= Negative, you have a clean playing field=\=

"Thank you, please keep a running countdown on their distance to the
junction,"  Rellam said, then turned now the the freeze had been
explained, and signaled Penn to move forward.  "Penn, you heard
Overwatch, here's the plan, we are going to toss two grenades each,
I'll toss from low you toss from high, We toss when their point is at
10 feet.  Got it?"

=\="Got it Gunny=\=  Pen said as he pulled two photon grenades off his 
harness.

The two Marines crept up to the junction and waited, grenades in hand 
and ready.

=\=20 feet till contact...15 feet...10 feet=\=  At the same moment as
the Overwatch said ten, Rellam gave the signal to throw.  Both Marines
let loose with the grenades, two followed by two.  They pulled back
away from the edge, and waited for the explosion.  It went off and the
crates and shelves that made up the walls and walk ways shook.  Half a
heart beat after the explosion the Rellam and his squad were around
the corner, two Marines had been kiilled outright by the explosion,
their armor shredded by the force of four grenades going off at their
feet at the same time, the other two had been cushioned slightly, but
were still wounded, badly.  Rellam started to tell them to drop their
weapons, but before he could finish they were raising their rifles and
taking aim.  Rellam and his squad had no choice but to fire and kill
the last two.

"Police the bodies, take any weapons or ammo we can use and pile the
rest up outside the junction."  Rellam said as two of his men went to
work.  After that the squad continued moving, taking the bay inch by
inch.  Before long the 52nd Fleet Marines had managed to force the
remaining Doenitz forces to the back center of the bay, where they
were desperately trying to hold out.  Soon enough, one way or another,
The Loyalist would be defeated, and the Base would finally be secure.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Cargo Bay 3, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1600)

Eva walked through the nearly full cargo bay a somber expression on
her face.  Wounded were laid out on beds in neat rows as medical 
personnel
moved all about the room tending to their wounds and making sure the 
most
critically injured were transferred to one of the Paladin's sickbays. 

	Eva just walked amongst the beds, careful to stay out of everyone's
way.  She considered it her duty to see first hand the wounds taken by
those under her command.  To witness the wounds they had taken 
following
her orders, the sacrifices they making for Star Fleet and the 
Federation.
She never wanted to forget that war ruined lives, that war was a 
terrible
thing and the only good thing about it was it's ending.  She walked 
around
and up and down the rows, looking at the horrors this battle had 
wrought.
The lives broken, and the lives lost.  As she walked, followed 
discreetly
by two armed security personnel, she swore that she would do everything 
she
could to see that their sacrifices where not made in vain.  That they 
would
succeed in saving the Federation.  They would save their home worlds 
from
the grip of a mad man.  They would save Star Fleet and the Federation 
and
put it back in the hands of the people, where it belonged.  With 
renewed
determination, Eva walked around one more time then headed for the exit 
and
back to the Bridge.  She had work to do.

(posted by Wes)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Engineering - Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1603)

Kyp gave a groan. It was hard getting new materials back and forth to repair this damnable starbase. ~This seems a 
little off to me. THEY blow up the starbase and we have to put it back together?~ Unlike some officers, Kyp hauled 
equipment back and forth with them. His jacket and vest were off, long discarded with the extertion of moving heavy 
tools and parts into areas the transporters couldn't reach.
 
They had finally gotten the shields up and running for the starbase. When the computer had finally started responding, 
their work moved much more quickly and allowed them to effect repairs in the most efficient way they could. The weapons 
systems were almost completely destroyed, leaving only four torpedo tubes damaged lightly enough to quickly repair and 
a decent portion of phaser strips and arrays to mount defenses. All in all, things were moving well in making this 
starbase a vantage point for the fleet.
 
Kyp was taking a water break with a few of his men after they had repaired a critical EPS junciton point. They were 
congratulating each other on a job well done, because the environmental controls had gone back to normal when the node 
went operational. The temperature had gone back down to standard levels and Kyp could swear that the ventilation systems 
were sending more oxygen to the different parts of the base. A petty officer came running up with a terrified look on his 
face. "Sir, we have a problem."
 
Kyp wiped sweat from his brow, blinking more than usual with how tired he was. "What is it Randal?"
 
"Something is going on in Main Ops. We lost contact with them and alarms are going off." A worried look passed across 
the man's face. "We think security measures were accidentally set off in there."
 
Kyp snapped to full attention in a second. "Well, get them out of there!"
 
"We're trying, sir, but we can't get the computer to open up there."
 
Kyp started jogging at a steady pace down the deck, engineers drawing to him like a magnet. "Then we'll do this the 
old fashioned way." He stopped when he found a team of marines. "You! Come with us. We need you to blow open Main Ops 
now!"
 
The marines thankfully didn't question the order, seeing the anxious looks on their faces. They finally got to Main 
Ops and found the doors locked. Operations officers quickly jumped to panels and tried to open them up. Kyp ignored 
them had the marines place charges.
 
They moved back down the hall as the charges blew. Kyp didn't see the marines place them, but whatever they did had 
the doors fall out instead of in. The smoke cleared and coughing people stumbled out. Kyp ran in. "Are you all okay?"

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1622)

Every crew member was getting tired including Calvin. Normally it would be
nearly time for a shift change, but right now was not normal times. There was
still repairs to be made, but it seemed they were going well. Threats were now low
on the fleets priorities. Captain Straton had sent scouts out, Starbase 234
has sensors at full alert and so far nothing has popped up.
 
Calvin wasn't doing one task in specific at the time except boosting his crew
on Starbase 234 morale. He walked from console to console talking with the
different members. Some of the officers were from the Paladin, but there was a
great deal from the different ships of the fleet. Lt Cmdr Capps attempted
successfully to get to know those crew members. He also got to know some of
his own crew a little more.
 
Suddenly the red Klaxons buzzed in main ops. Calvin looked up from the console
he was standing behind. His eyes showed surprised. "What is it?" Calvin asked,
but before any one could answer the computer began to make an announcement.
 
[Security alert 33. Security alert 57. Security alert 3]
 
Calvin was unaware what those alerts were exactly. He turned to Ensign
K'Palla. "Ensign run those alerts through he computer figure out what they are.
 
(reply K'Palla)
 
It only took her a few seconds to find the first one. "We will need to evacuate
main ops." Calvin commanded. The crew moved to the turbolift doors, but they
would not open. "Computer, open turbolift doors."
 
[Security alert 57 restricts turbolifts. Warning Oxygen levels will be depleted in
one minute]
 
"We will beam out he said to the crew trying to reassure them. Lt Cmdr Capps to
the USS Paladin" There was no answer. "Capps to any ship in the fleet!" Calvin
said with a calm voice, but inside he wanted to scream it out. There still was
no answer.
 
"Computer, establish a communication link to the USS Paladin"
 
[Security alert 3 prevents that task]
 
"Lt Matrix we have one minute to get the oxygen levels back in this room!" Calvin
said to the Lt giving him a clear and precise order.
 
~What is going on?~ Calvin thought. 

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -LT JG Steven Matrix- 1622)

Matrix had been programming one of the main consoles in operations. He
looked up periodically to review the status boards and those around 
him. The
commander was silently reviewing the work going on around operations,
stopping to chat with some of the crew as they worked. The mood was 
relaxed
but busy.  Matrix returned to his programming tasks when alarms went 
off.
 
[Security alert 33. Security alert 57. Security alert 3]
 
The sound was piercing, "Now what?" said Matrix aloud, but he was 
certain no
one heard him. Matrix heard the commander order evacuation of 
operations,
but the alerts were preventing anyone from leaving. 
 
[Security alert 57 restricts turbolifts. Warning Oxygen levels will be
depleted in one minute] 
 
A few more frantic moments went by, Matrix was working at the console,
trying to figure out what was going on. Matrix accessed the command 
status
system, ~What the hell?~
 
"Lt Matrix we have one minute to get the oxygen levels back in this 
room!"
Calvin 
said to the Lt giving him a clear and precise order.  
 
"Aye sir,  It appears an intruder alert has been triggered. I'm trying 
to
override now sir." Replied, Matrix. A brief wave of panic came over 
Matrix
has he was accessing the main computer. ~I can't gain access to
environmental controls, damn...let's try...~ The sound of the panels
feedback was barley heard over the alarms while Matrix worked. ~Aah, 
getting
closer.~
 
"Commander, I'm unable to access environmental controls for operations, 
but
I can override the ventilation systems on the adjoining decks. With the
damage to the base the inter deck seals may be inoperative in this 
area. I
should be able to open the air vents around us, hopefully we'll get a 
flow
of fresh oxygen in here."

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1624)

Kyp ran into Main Ops after the smoke cleared. A few coughing officers stumbled out. "Are you okay?" he asked them. 
He saw K'Palla smiling. He frowned at her jokingly, "I thought we were supposed to NOT get into trouble...but I guess 
I should have seen it coming. Do you know what happened?"
 
(reply K'Palla)
 
Kyp looked past her and saw Matrix. "Matrix, you okay? This one isn't going on my record; your resume will suffer for 
this." Kyp grinned at him.
 
(reply Matrix)
 
Commander Capps walked up. Kyp saluted him, "Sir, we noticed the disturbance. We didn't have much time to think, so we 
uh...blew the door open."

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1625)

K'Palla was running some diagnostics on some lesser sytems, trying to get the entire station up and running.
 
Suddenly the red Klaxons buzzed in main ops. Commander Capps looked up from the console he was standing behind. His 
eyes showed surprised. "What is it?" Calvin asked, but before any one could answer the computer began to make an 
announcement.
 
[Security alert 33. Security alert 57. Security alert 3]
 
He turned to K'Palla. "Ensign run those alerts through he computer figure out what they are."
 
"Aye, sir!" the Klingon said over the alarms. "Security alert 33 is a failsafe for unauthorized intruders in Main Ops, 
sir!!  Life support is shutting down!!"
 
"We will need to evacuate main ops." Calvin commanded. The crew moved to the turbolift doors, but they would not open. 
"Computer, open turbolift doors."
 
[Security alert 57 restricts turbolifts. Warning Oxygen levels will be depleted in
one minute]
 
"We will beam out he said to the crew trying to reassure them. Lt Cmdr Capps to
the USS Paladin" There was no answer. "Capps to any ship in the fleet!" Calvin
said with a calm voice, but inside he wanted to scream it out. There still was
no answer.
 
"Computer, establish a communication link to the USS Paladin"
 
[Security alert 3 prevents that task]
 
"Lt Matrix we have one minute to get the oxygen levels back in this room!" Calvin
said to the Lt giving him a clear and precise order.
 
"Aye sir,  It appears an intruder alert has been triggered. I'm trying to override now sir." replied Matrix. "Commander, 
I'm unable to access environmental controls for operations, but I can override the ventilation systems on the adjoining 
decks.  With the damage to the base the inter deck seals may be inoperative in this area. I should be able to open the 
air vents around us, hopefully we'll get a flow of fresh oxygen in here."
"Negative!!  Environment control was one of the first systems that I restored!!  Those seals are working!!"  the Klingon 
yelled, cursing her own efficiency.  K'Palla returned to her station, and attempted to find a security over-ride for the 
alert.  She was not about to die in such a fashion.  ~~ I'd rather be pushed out an airlock at warp speed than die like 
this!! ~~
 
A chime sounded over the Klaxons.  ||Warning. Oxygen depletion in 30 seconds.||
 
K'Palla felt a little light-headed, realizing that the air was growing thinner.  She blinked as she concentrated on her 
console, inputting command after command in her attempts to over-ride the alerts.
 
||Warning. Oxygen depletion in 10 seconds.||
 
Suddenly, the doors to Main Ops exploded and fell outwards.  Her head cleared as fresh air rushed back into Ops.  As 
soon as the air levels balanced, the alarms ceased.
 
Through the smoke, she saw her friend, K'yp run in.  "Are you all okay?"
 
All she could do was smile.  She would have to thank him properly when there was less of a crowd around.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1625)

 
Kyp ran into Main Ops after the smoke cleared. A few coughing officers stumbled out. "Are you okay?" he asked them. He 
saw K'Palla smiling. He frowned at her jokingly, "I thought we were supposed to NOT get into trouble...but I guess I 
should have seen it coming. Do you know what happened?"
 
"I cannot help it, K'yp!" K'Palla smiled wider.  "If I don't look for trouble, it seems to look for me!  Apparently, a 
failsafe was set off when the computer realized that unauthorized intruders were in Main Ops, life support was shut 
down!  We were being immobilized by a lack of oxygen! You could not have come at a better time!"

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1626)

K'Palla and Matrix worked as fast as they could, but it didn't seem as if they were getting any where. Calvin could 
feel the breath being taken out of him. It became harder and harder to breath. He began to choke, and he grasped for 
air. But he was not able to recieve any. He fail to his knees, but then there was an explosion.
 
Calvin had no idea was it was, but he continued to grasp for air. Little by little he could breath a little easier. 
Once oxygen filled his lungs again he stood and looked over at the people that had just saved everyone lives in Main 
Ops. He walked slowly over to Kyp and the few maries.

"Are you okay?" he asked them. He saw K'Palla smiling. He frowned at her jokingly, "I thought we were supposed to NOT 
get into trouble...but I guess I should have seen it coming. Do you know what happened?"
 
"I cannot help it, K'yp!" K'Palla smiled wider.  "If I don't look for trouble, it seems to look for me!  Apparently, a 
failsafe was set off when the computer realized that unauthorized intruders were in Main Ops, life support was shut 
down!  We were being immobilized by a lack of oxygen! You could not have come at a better time!"
 
Kyp looked past her and saw Matrix. "Matrix, you okay? This one isn't going on my record; your resume will suffer for 
this." Kyp grinned at him.
 
(reply Matrix)
 
Commander Capps walked up. Kyp saluted him, "Sir, we noticed the disturbance. We didn't have much time to think, so 
we uh...blew the door open."
 
"In this situation I am glad you did. You saved our lives for you fast thinking." He turned to the marines. "And you 
as well, we thank you."
 
The marines began to talk to one another quietly and under their breaths.
 
Calvin contineued to breath the fresh, but slightly smokey air from the corridor. "We of course have to fix the door 
AGAIN!" He said jokeing.
 
(reply Kyp, K'Palla, Matrix)
 
"We have gone through enough for now. Lets make our way back to the Paladin. Get some fresh air, eat and rest a little. 
We will come back later. I will contact you all. As for me I have some one I want to see."
 
Repairs began again immediatly. 

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1626)

Kyp looked past her and saw Matrix. "Matrix, you okay? This one isn't 
going
on my record; your resume will suffer for this." Kyp grinned at him.
 
Coughing Matrix replied, "My record? That wasn't my fault...although 
you're
right. It's not going to look good on a resume." Matrix smiled wiping 
the
smoke residue from his face.
 
Commander Capps walked up. Kyp saluted him, "Sir, we noticed the
disturbance. We didn't have much time to think, so we uh...blew the 
door
open."
 
"In this situation I am glad you did. You saved our lives for you fast
thinking." He turned to the marines. "And you as well, we thank you."
 
The marines began to talk to one another quietly and under their 
breaths. 
 
Calvin contineued to breath the fresh, but slightly smokey air from the
corridor. "We of course have to fix the door AGAIN!" He said jokeing. 
 
Matrix was still blinking heavily and trying to hold back a laugh 
worthy of
a Klingon, "Aye Sir, the second time is a charm. This time we'll make 
sure
those deck seals aren't working." Matrix hoped the Commander would
appreciate a little humor considering the situation.

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1627)

"Are you okay?" Kyp asked them. He saw K'Palla smiling. He frowned at her jokingly, "I thought we were supposed to 
NOT get into trouble...but I guess I should have seen it coming. Do you know what happened?"

"I cannot help it, K'yp!" K'Palla smiled wider. "If I don't look for trouble, it seems to look for me! Apparently, a 
failsafe was set off when the computer realized that unauthorized intruders were in Main Ops, life support was shut 
down! We were being immobilized by a lack of oxygen! You could not have come at a better time!"

Kyp looked past her and saw Matrix. "Matrix, you okay? This one isn't going on my record; your resume will suffer for 
this." Kyp grinned at him.

(reply Matrix)

Commander Capps walked up. Kyp saluted him, "Sir, we noticed the disturbance. We didn't have much time to think, so we 
uh...blew the door open."

"In this situation I am glad you did. You saved our lives for you fast thinking." He turned to the marines. "And you as 
well, we thank you."

The marines began to talk to one another quietly and under their breaths.

The Commander took a few breaths before addressing them. "We of course have to fix the door AGAIN!" He said jokeing.

Kyp laughed. "Sounds like the story of my lift lately." He winked at the mariens. "They blow stuff up and I put it 
back together."

(reply K'Palla, Matrix, Capps)

"We have gone through enough for now. Lets make our way back to the Paladin. Get some fresh air, eat and rest a little. 
We will come back later. I will contact you all. As for me I have some one I want to see."

Repairs began again immediatly.

(reply K'Palla, Matrix)

Kyp nodded to the lieutenant commander and headed to a transporter room. He was tired and had gone well over his shift. 
Petty Officer Daniels said he'd inform Ensign DiMarco of his departure. As he entered the transporter room, the 
transporter chief glanced at Kyp's arm. "I guess you'll need to go to Cargo Bay 3 to get that gash fixed up?"

A frown spread across Kyp's face. He raises his arm to inspect it, finding a deep cut on his upper arm he hadn't 
felt. It wasn't bleeding profusely, but the uniform was ruined. "I think that would be best."

"Then please step up, sir."

Kyp did as instructed and rematerialized on the Paladin. He found himself in the cargo bay, teal uniformed people 
running about. One ran up to him, looked over his arm, and all but threw him on a bed next to a junior grade ensign 
with a broken leg. Kyp grinned off to the side at him. "I didn't know nurses were so strong."

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1628)

Commander Capps walked up. Kyp saluted him, "Sir, we noticed the disturbance. We didn't have much time to think, 
so we uh...blew the door open."

"In this situation I am glad you did. You saved our lives for you fast thinking." He turned to the marines. "And you 
as well, we thank you."

The marines began to talk to one another quietly and under their breaths.

The Commander took a few breaths before addressing them. "We of course have to fix the door AGAIN!" He said jokeing.

Kyp laughed. "Sounds like the story of my life lately." He winked at the marines. "They blow stuff up and I put it 
back together."

"Perhaps, we should leave the door for last until I can root out anymore failsafes?" suggested K'Palla.

"We have gone through enough for now. Lets make our way back to the Paladin. Get some fresh air, eat and rest a little. 
We will come back later. I will contact you all. As for me I have some one I want to see."

Repairs began again immediatly.

K'Palla was relieved and followed Kyp and Matrix to the transporter room.

Kyp nodded to the lieutenant commander and headed to a transporter room. He was tired and had gone well over his 
shift. Petty Officer Daniels said he'd inform Ensign DiMarco of his departure. As he entered the transporter room, 
the transporter chief glanced at Kyp's arm. "I guess you'll need to go to Cargo Bay 3 to get that gash fixed up?"

A frown spread across Kyp's face. He raises his arm to inspect it, finding a deep cut on his upper arm he hadn't felt. 
It wasn't bleeding profusely, but the uniform was ruined. "I think that would be best."

"Then please step up, sir."
 
K'Palla stepped as well, without saying a word.  She stood next to Kyp as they beamed into the cargo bay.

Kyp did as instructed and rematerialized on the Paladin. He found himself in the cargo bay, teal uniformed people 
running about. One ran up to him, looked over his arm, and all but threw him on a bed next to a junior grade ensign 
with a broken leg. Kyp grinned off to the side at him. "I didn't know nurses were so strong."
 
K'Palla walked over to where Kyp lay.  She glanced down at his arm.  "Wear your scar well, K'yp!  You have earned 
it!"
 
(reply Durron)
 
"Your actions were well-timed in Main Ops, K'yp!  It would have been a terrible way to die!" she added.
 
(reply Durron)
 
"Just the same, you saved my life, K'yp!  I owe you a blood debt!" the Klingon beauty smiled, then glanced around to 
see if anyone was looking.  When she saw that the coast was clear, she leaned down and kissed her fellow ensign fully 
on the lips.  She let the kiss linger for a moment, then broke away.  "Thank you!  When you are healed up, I'll buy 
you a drink in the lounge later!"
 
(reply Durron)
 
With a wink, she turned and left the cargo bay area.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp - 1629)

Commander Capps walked up. Kyp saluted him, "Sir, we noticed the disturbance. We didn't have much time to think, so 
we uh...blew the door open."

"In this situation I am glad you did. You saved our lives for you fast thinking." He turned to the marines. "And you 
as well, we thank you."

The marines began to talk to one another quietly and under their breaths.

The Commander took a few breaths before addressing them. "We of course have to fix the door AGAIN!" He said jokeing.

Kyp laughed. "Sounds like the story of my life lately." He winked at the marines. "They blow stuff up and I put it back 
together."

"Perhaps, we should leave the door for last until I can root out anymore failsafes?" suggested K'Palla.

"We have gone through enough for now. Lets make our way back to the Paladin. Get some fresh air, eat and rest a little. 
We will come back later. I will contact you all. As for me I have some one I want to see."

Repairs began again immediatly.

K'Palla was relieved and followed Kyp and Matrix to the transporter room.

Kyp nodded to the lieutenant commander and headed to a transporter room. He was tired and had gone well over his shift. 
Petty Officer Daniels said he'd inform Ensign DiMarco of his departure. As he entered the transporter room, the 
transporter chief glanced at Kyp's arm. "I guess you'll need to go to Cargo Bay 3 to get that gash fixed up?"

A frown spread across Kyp's face. He raises his arm to inspect it, finding a deep cut on his upper arm he hadn't felt. 
It wasn't bleeding profusely, but the uniform was ruined. "I think that would be best."

"Then please step up, sir."
 
K'Palla stepped as well, without saying a word.  She stood next to Kyp as they beamed into the cargo bay.

Kyp did as instructed and rematerialized on the Paladin. He found himself in the cargo bay, teal uniformed people 
running about. One ran up to him, looked over his arm, and all but threw him on a bed next to a junior grade ensign 
with a broken leg. Kyp grinned off to the side at him. "I didn't know nurses were so strong."
 
K'Palla walked over to where Kyp lay.  She glanced down at his arm.  "Wear your scar well, K'yp!  You have earned it!"
 
"Besides, I just reacted to the situation."
 
"Your actions were well-timed in Main Ops, K'yp!  It would have been a terrible way to die!" she added.
 
"Eh, dead is dead. Besides, it was nothing really. Just ordered some mariens to blow open a door."
 
"Just the same, you saved my life, K'yp!  I owe you a blood debt!" the Klingon beauty smiled, then glanced around to 
see if anyone was looking.  When she saw that the coast was clear, she leaned down and kissed her fellow ensign fully 
on the lips.  She let the kiss linger for a moment, then broke away.  "Thank you!  When you are healed up, I'll buy 
you a drink in the lounge later!"
 
Kyp stood there a bit stunned. A lopsided grin formed on his face. "Uh, sure. A drink, yes. That would be good." He 
waved, a little unsure of what to do.
 
With a wink, she turned and left the cargo bay area.
 
Kyp turned back to the man next to him. "Hi," he said

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Cargo Bay 3 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee and ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 16:29)

Christian had been transferred to a makeshift biobed since he first realized he had broken his leg. Soon afterwards, a 
yellow-shirted ensign was laid in the bed next to him. He felt like he recognized him, but he didn't know from where. 
The young ensign turned to him, and smiled, saying, "I didn't know nurses were so strong."
 
Christian chuckled. "I think they're helped a bit by the antigrav units, but, yeah they are pretty strong. I'm Christian 
by the way."
 
"I'm Kyp. I'm an assistan chief engineer. Seems I cut my arm fixing everything they just had to blow up." He looked 
down at Christian's leg. "What'd you do to get that one?"
 
Christian shrugged. "Well, I was on the Away Team to the USS Hope, and I was the one to pilot her. I guess I broke my 
leg when we got tossed by that shockwave from when the mines went off."
 
Kyp closed his eyes and winced. "Ow...definitely gonna feel that for a few days. How long did you go without a 
painkiller?"
 
"Oh, I don't know. Maybe fifteen to twenty minutes? I really didn't notice until I was back here and was trying to 
get up and walk around. I stood up, felt a sharp pain, let out a yelp, and crumpled to the ground. I was a bit 
embarrassed to tell the truth. You?"
 
"Me?" Kyp shrugged, "I really don't know how I cut open my arm. Lugging stuff into needed areas is hard work. You 
don't really feel much when you're exhausted and running on adrenaline. We managed to get most of the station up 
and running. What's been going on the Paladin?"
 
"Don't exactly know. The blasting has stopped, so I can only assume that the space battle is over. What about on the 
Starbase? Is it secure yet?"
 
The nurse came back over. "Alright, Ensign, I'm going to seal up your arm. Stay still." She gave Kyp a hard look to 
show how serious she was.
 
Kyp laughed a bit. "Yes, ma'am." The nurse nodded and used a dermal regenerator to seal up his arm. "Ow! That hurt!" 
he exclaimed as she poked his arm to see if it was okay. She grinned at him and walked off, telling him to rest here 
until they could be sure of his condition. Kyp looked back over at Christian. "The starbase is mostly secure. From 
what I hear, there are pockets of resistance. We hit an intruder protocol that almost killed everyone in Main Ops, 
but we got them out of there. Other than that, things are going smoothly. We even got control of the computer."
 
"Hmmm. That is good news. So, how much longer do you think we'll be here?"
 
"Here, as in this impromptu sickbay, or here as in orbit around the starbase?"
 
"Well, either."
 
Kyp laughed and scratched the top of his head. "I think I'll be here for the night. I need to eat and sleep. But in 
orbit...I don't know. I guess we'll be here until the starbase is at full operation again so that we can create a 
new outpost here. The Paladin is in her own right a starbase, so I guess we'll be here to protect our new prize until 
she's ready to go on her own. We're a powerful ship, so I don't expect us to be here too long."
 
"True. I would like to get out of here though. Joran has told me how concernced he's ben for Rana and I during this 
whole affair. He was originally going to be second in command aboard the USS Hope, but that captain decided that he 
wasn't needed on this mission. So, he stayed here. I just was wondering if it was possible to see him at some time 
soon."
 
A frown spreading across Kyp's face in confusion. "Joran....You're a Brownlee?"
 
"Yeah, we're brothers. Couldn't you tell?"
 
"Well," Kyp laughed, "I don't like to jump to conclusions on matters such as these."
 
"Oh, it's no problem. I must confess it is a little strange having your older brother be Second Officer on your first 
assignment. But it's kind of nice too. He's there to show me the ropes and get my footing. Do you have any brothers or 
sisters, Kyp?"
 
"Hmm, if I do I wouldn't know. I'm an orphan. I was found on the streets of San Francisco on Earth. Put me in an 
orphanage and I eventually joined Starfleet, and here I am now."
 
"Wow, I never would've guessed. You spent your entire childhood in an orphanage? That must've been rough."
 
Memories flashed through Kyp's mind. Christian had no idea. "Yeah, that's one way to put it."
 
"But, you turned out all right, I see. Wasn't it you who commandeered that shuttlecraft to the USS Paladin and 
essentially defected? You did all that you could to fight for what's right. I respect that."
 
Kyp nodded. "Thank you. I did what I had to. Killing innocents is not right. I just know that if we don't stand up for 
what's right then we are letting tyranny and evil run rampant. That we cannot do. About me turning out alright...I don't 
know how I did. I guess it's something about me."
 
A nurse came over to Christian and said, "Alright, ensign, I'm going to set the bone. You'll feel a sharp, but brief 
pain as I set it back in place. I'll then fuse the bone, and put it in a splint. You won't be able to walk for a few 
hours at least, and you'll need to use crutches for a few days." She jerked his leg, and a wave of pain radiated 
through his leg, but dissapated soon after. As she was fusing the bone, Christian said to Kyp, "So, what do you do 
around here for fun? Holodeck?"
 
~He bears pain well.~ "Eh, sometimes. I don't do much in the way of 'fun' around here. Don't know too many people. 
I've been to ten forward a few times and met your brother there, but I mostly just do my job."
 
"Well, when we get out of here, I've got a card game we could play together. I bet you've never played it before."
 
"Oh? Is it that game Lt. Brownlee was going to teach me? I forgot the name of it, though..." Kyp tapped his chin in 
thought, trying to recall the name.
 
"Well, if he was telling you about 45's..."
 
Kyp pointed his finger at Christian excitedly, regretting it as a searing pain ripped through his arm. "That's the 
one! 45's."
 
"Oh, so he's told you about it! What has he told you? I can fill in the rest of the details."
 
"Actually, nothing really. We never had a chance to play. My shift came up and I had to run."
 
"Too bad. It's a fun game to play, but the rules are very confusing. My cousin is an astrophysicist, and I thought 
he'd be able to get it, but he was clueless. The best way to learn, I think, is watching a game or two to get the 
feeling of it."
 
Kyp nodded. "It's the same way with Spades. Rules make perfect sense and are easy to those who know how to play, but 
it's hard for those who don't know how to play."
 
Christian looked confused. "Don't think I've ever heard of Spades before."
 
Kyp grinned. "Orphanage game. We played it a lot. Four people play. The first person plays a card and the other 
four people are required to play the same suit. The person opposite you is your partner, and you are trying to gain 
the most tricks. A trick is the four cards picked up by the person who plays the highest card. Spades are stronger 
than the hearts, diamonds, and clubs. Yeah, it's a little odd."
 
"Ah. Sounds like Hearts. Well, anyway, the card ranking in 45's isn't what you'd expect. The highest card is the 5 
of trumps, which is the suit chosen for play, followed by the Jack of trumps, Ace of Hearts, Ace of trumps, and then 
straight down the line. I just can't remember at the moment whether it is red or black cards that have the reverse 
numerical value."
 
Kyp frowned. "Okay, I'm an engineer, but that went right over my head." He chuckled. "I guess I'll--AYE!." The nurse 
had come back and was poking something into his cut again. "What are you doing!"
 
The nurse glared at him, "Fixing you. You broke yourself." Her features softened, "This is necessary. Stay still." 
Kyp obliged and the nurse quickly finished and ran off.
 
"You all right?" Christian asked.
 
"Yeah, it's just Miss I-Like-To-Sneak-Up-And-Stab-People here is getting on my nerves."
 
"Ugh, that's rough. Anyway, I could write down the rules for you if that would be easier."
 
"That would be good. Sounds like a game that takes a little getting used to, though."
 
"Sounds like a plan." Christian laughed.
 
Kyp laughed with him, then laid his head back on the pillow. "I guess I'll go to sleep now before that gruff nurse 
comes back and puts me to sleep. I'll say goodbye to you on my way out in the morning."
 
"Sounds good." Christian turned away from his newfound friend, put his hands behind his head, and looked up at the 
ceiling. It wasn't long until he had fallen asleep as well. Overall, he felt that even though it was a long, hard 
day, it was still a good day.

(posted by Spencer and Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, COPS Office - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1630)

Michael looked at the PADD and handed it back to the Supply Clerk.
"We already filled this order, earlier today.  I saw it myself."
Michael said as he moved on to the next PADD in the stack.

"Um, no sir, they need a second new door for Ops," the Petty Officer
said, not liking having to correct his boss.

Michael took the PADD back and looked at it again, "What happened to
the first New Door we sent over?"  Michael asked, not quite sure he
wanted to know.

"Someone mentioned explosives, sir, that's all I know."

Michael raised his eye in surprise, but as he hadn't heard anything
about wounded or another attack he decided he would find out the
details later.  "Ok, add it to the list of things to replicate, as I
am pretty sure we are out of Station Ops Doors,"  Michael went back to
looking at the second PADD.  "Ok, We are ready to transfer the
supplies and parts to the Terminator," Michael said, signing off on
the transfer order.  "Coordinate with the Terminator Ops."  Michael
handed the second PADD back to the Petty Officer, moving on to the
third and final PADD.  "Ok, The Vanguard is next on the list, start
filling their requests," Michael said, adding a new set of orders to
the PADD.  "You are authorized to place orders with Industrial
Replication for anything we don't have on hand.  Lets see if we can't
manage to get the resupply done soon.  And assuming we can get
permission at some point, lets send over some of the Crewmen to see
what we can find on the station.  I'll see if I can get access to the
station's cargo manifest soon.  You or your shift replacement should
check back with me in two hours, unless something comes up sooner.
Dismissed,"  Michael said, after he handed the last PADD back to the
Petty Officer.

Standing up he walked over to his replicator and ordered some food and
drink.  This was probably the only chance for a break he was going to
get for a bit so he figured he would take it.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Transporter Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1640)

Calvin did not waste anytime. Once the transporter chief finished doing his job
Calvin stepped down from the pad, and walked out quickly into the hall. But not
before a nod of the head to the crewman behind the console.
 
Calvin walked briskly to the nearest turbolift, and entered. He knew he could use
the site to site transporter if he wanted to, but with all the repairs and extra energy
the ship was using he decided that it would be best for him not too. "Main
Sickbay." He said tot he computer.
 
It had been a long few hours ago when Calvin held Elizabeth in his arms when
they both were transported over the Paladin form the Hope. Ever since that time
he had been concerned about her while she was in sickbay being operated
on. Although Calvin had full confidence in the doctors on board he knew he could
trust Dr. Keller and Dr. Loxari the most.
 
He had kept himself busy on Starbae 234, and there were times when he did not
have her in his mind, but when the intruder alerts sounded and the oxygen levels
were depleting fast. He could feel his life being drained out of him. At that
exact moment he thought of Elizabeth. At that moment he wanted to see her
more than ever.
 
He made it to sickbay, and stepped inside. A few nurses were making fast trips
back and forth from bio bed to bio bed. Calvin knew if it was this busy in sickbay
that there must be a ton more crew in in the cargo bay.
 
Calvin walked up the closest nurse. "Nurse." He said to get her
attention.
 
"Commander.." she said as if she was surprised. "Ensign Knightley is in that
room." She said as she pointed and smiled. ~I wished I had someone that cared
for me that much.~
 
"Thank you." Calvin went in the direction the nurse's finger pointed. Once he
walked through the open doorway he saw Dr. Loxari beside the bio bed. He was
very happy to see that Elizabeth was not lying on the bio bed, but sitting. It
seemed that she had made a full recovery in a short time.
 
Elizabeth jumped own form the bio bed much to Dr. Loxari's surprise. She walked
to Calvin until they met each other arms and hugged.
 
Seconds went by and Calvin did not want to let go, but he did. He looked
into Elizabeth's eyes, "How are you?"
 
"I am wonderful thanks to the great Dr's we have on board," she said as she
looked over at Dr. Loxari.
 
"Dr," Calvin said. "Is she free to go?"
 
(reply Loxari)
 
"Thank you Dr." They both said in unison as they walked out of sickbay.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Outside Main Ops - Science Officer Ensign (jg) Olesia Belden and Corporal T'Sora - 16:46)

T'Sora was just outside Main Ops, making sure to wipe out the last bit of resistance when she was grabbed from behind, 
most likely by one of the station personnel. She loosened the grip that her assailant had on her, and found herself in 
the grasp of a relatively young Trill woman, wearing a blue uniform.
 
"You will take me to your captain," Olesia said to the Marine.
 
"I will see what I can do." T'Sora tapped her communicator, and said, "T'Sora to Captain Straton."
 
(reply Straton)
 
"There is an officer wishing to speak with you over here. May I bring her aboard?"
 
(reply Straton, assuming a yes)
 
"Aye sir." She turned to the science officer. "Prepare for beam-out."
 
"I appreciate it," Olesia said, as she felt herself begin to disintegrate.

(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(Starbase 234 - Main Ops -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1647)

~The prospect of door repair, there must be a book on the subject~ 
thought
Matrix. It wasn't long before the ops center returned to normal. Matrix
continued work on the engineering consoles and had begun the 31st of 
what
was to be 42 detailed programming chores.

A few hours had passed and Matrix finally sat back in his chair. Almost
alone in operations. All the programs were complete. 47 to be exact. ~I
haven't programmed like that since the Geneva~ said Matrix to himself. 
~Time
for a break...I should get back to the Paladin.~

Matrix made his way to the nearest transporter room. Destination the
Paladin.

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Transporter Room 3 -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 1652)

Matrix materialized on the Paladin about 42 seconds after entering the
transporter room on the Starbase. Matrix looked down at his PADD and 
glanced
at the engineering status indicator. ~Hum...all is well it seems. Time 
to
grab some food and get back to engineering.~ Matrix stepped off the
transporter pad and proceeded to the turbo lift. 

"Deck 19." The doors shut in the turbo lift and the familiar hum filled 
the
tiny cylindrical room. 
 
22 seconds later the turbo lift doors opened at deck 19. Matrix made 
his way
toward the observation lounge. ~I'm hungry, very hungry.~ said Matrix 
to
himself. Matrix made his way toward the most forward open seat near the
window. There was a fantastic view of the star system's nebula. The 
waiter
stopped by and asked the Lt what he wanted. "I'll have an ale, Colorado
angus steak, medium with mashed potatoes." The waiter nodded and walked 
back
to the kitchen.

Moments later his meal arrived along with his second ale. Matrix didn't
waste time and eat his long awaited steak in only a few minutes. It had 
been
14 hours since his last meal. ~Oh, that hit the spot. I'd better check 
on
the Paladin and where the staff is.~ 

Matrix headed back to main engineering, but he had to make a stop 
first.

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Lt Tirrel Office - 3rd Lt Hyde - 1727)

The Paladin Marine CO wanted a report from each sqaud leader as soon as
possible, and as far as Philip was concerned he would be the first to deliver his to
Lt Tirrel. With his report in hand he pushed the chime button on the outside wall.
 
(reply Tirrel)
 
The doors opened nearly immediatly, and Philip walked inside and stood in
attention. He saluted to his CO.
 
(reply Tirrel)
 
"I am here to give you my report sir." He said as he took a few steps forward
and placed the PADD on to the desk. He then went back to a relax stance.
 
Philip tried to be modest, but this time around he could not allow himself to be.
He thought back to all the fighting that happened ealier on the Paladin, and how
he was a big effect of the outcome being good. He was proud of the way he lead
his team today. He felt that he had come along way. Only months ago did he fail
his team because he was too shell shocked to fire his supression rife at the enemy. 

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - MCO`s Office - MCO Conner Tirrel - 17:28)

The marines had fought a hard pitched battle to take
Starbase 234, there had been casualties of course but
the job had been done, they had done what they had
come here to do & Conner was proud of them all.

After any battle however there were always those that
had not returned, those that had payed the ultimate
sacrifice & it was to those now that the MCO`s
thoughts were now focused. In the heat of battle he
had seen men whom he had fought alongside many a time
succumb to enemy fire, their bodies lying mangled &
broken, fallen heroes one & all.

It was never an easy task compiling lists & reporting
losses but it was a neccesary one. The names were
already becoming familiar, Drew, Higson, Tappet.....

All of them would have relatives that would need to be
informed, there would be tears as always, such were
the horrors of war & conflict.

The chime sounding at the MCO`s door however provided
a brief respite from the task in hand.
 
"Enter", said Conner in responce & in walked Hyde to
imediately stand to attention before the desk.

"At ease son", said Conner, "what can I do for you?",
he added laying aside the PADD in his hand for a
moment or two.
 
"I am here to give you my report sir.", said Hyde as
he placed the PADD he had carried with him onto the
MCO`s desk. Conner picked the PADD up & began reading
the Private`s report, momentarilly stopping midway to
look up into Hydes face as he did so.

"You did good Phillip, damn good", said Conner. "I
knew you had it in you to lead given the chance", he
added proudly as he continued to read through Hydes
report.

"I`ll be recommending you for a bravery award on the
strength of the leadership of your team in the defence
of the Paladin", said Conner.

(Reply Hyde)
 
"You brought your entire team back from this alive
Phillip, modesty does not become you", said Conner
with a smile.

(Reply Hyde)

"Nonsence, you earned this....my recommendation
stands", said Conner, "now get your marine butt off
for some food & rest", he added.

"That`s an order 3rd Lieutenant....dismissed", said
Conner with a smile as he then returned to the
depressing task he had been engaged in before Hyde had
arrived.

(posted by Alan)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - MCO's Office - 3rd Lt Philip Hyde - 1730)

"I`ll be recommending you for a bravery award on the strength of the leadership of
your team in the defence of the Paladin", said Conner.
 
"Sir?" Philip barked out of his mouth, but his Commanding Officer quickly cutting
him off. Probably not wanting to listen to any bull crap.
 
"You brought your entire team back from this alive Phillip, modesty does not
become you", said Conner with a smile.
 
"Sir. I believe thre may be others out there more deserving than I. I must protest to..."
 
"Nonsence, you earned this....my recommendation stands", said Conner, "now
get your marine butt off for some food & rest", he added.

"Thank you sir, but.." He stood there with more pride than ever before. He felt
like bursting, but his contained his emotions for now.
 
"That`s an order 3rd Lieutenant....dismissed", said Conner with a smile as he
then returned to the depressing task he had been engaged in before Hyde had arrived.
 
"Aye sir." Philip then saluted to his CO and left the office to get some rest.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Lt Max - 2000)

Max was one to always find the most dangerous task because he enjoyed
the adrenaline in them. There was no difference when he was behind the Helm
console during the battle. He could still remember the way he felt, the way hid
body when he was pushing the buttons at the console earlier.
 
That battle was over, but a new mission would be coming soon. And he could
not wait for it, but since life forced him to do so he must find a way to have fun.
He didn't know exactly what he was going to do yet.
 
As he sat at his dinner table, he pulled the desk computer closer to him,
"Computer show me my top 10 rated holo programs."
 
[Working..Complete]
 
Max looked them over. As he read each one he thought about them individually
and decided which one he wanted to do the most.
 
~Now, who will join me in this adventure?~

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2000)

Michael walked into the holodeck, it's walls the standard yellow grid
on black walls.  Looking around he wasn't sure what exactly he wanted,
but he had a general idea.

"Computer, construct an environment from the following
criteria...Temperate Climate, Deciduous Forest, consistent with Europe
and North America.  Open floor with low to no underbrush, a path,
wandering into the forest, terminating at one end at the edge of a
small lake, one small cottage, slightly off the path 100 yards from
the pond.  A Large stream or small river feeding into lake, and
running by the cabin, place multiple fords and rock crossings.  Stock
the cottage with typical food stuffs, and furniture typical to a Irish
household.  Place the starting point at about 20 feet from the front
door of the cottage."  Michael said, laying out the starting
guidelines for his little world.  "Draw any needed references from
records of Forests located in Ancient Ireland on Earth, pre 15th
Century.  Create and run program."

NRPG:  The cottage is very similar to the one that Crusher had in the
TNG episode "Sub Rosa"

RPG:

Michael waited half a second before the space around him shimmered and
turned into a beautiful forest, he could hear the stream/river flowing
not far from the cottage.  "Computer lower air temperature by 10
degrees, and create a slight breeze".  The temperature soon cooled and
the breeze blew through the trees, making the world feel more like
spring or fall than summer.  He walked up the small path that
connected the main path to the front door of the cottage and opened
the door.  The indoors were perfect, places to lounge and relax, a
fire place with a small fire going, some gas lamps lighting the room.
He walked through to the kitchen and started a pot of tea, on the
counter there was a basket of what smelled like fresh baked scones,
and he noticed there were food stuffs just like he liked when he was
growing up.  He he poured the water from the kettle into a tea pot,
grabbed a cup, some scones and some jam and headed to the living area.

Michael sat down and poured himself a cup, put some jam on a scone and
sat there for a second before he realized what was missing.
"Computer, access my personal files and stock all bookshelves in this
simulation accordingly"  Soon enough there were books filling up the
bookshelves and a couple on the end table next to the chair he was
occupying.  He picked it up and flipped it open, it was one of his
favorites.  Sitting back in the comfy chair he took a sip of his tea
and a bite of the scone and settled into some distressing after a very
stressful day.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joram Matthew Brownlee - 20:02)

Joran walked onto the holodeck, and saw that he was in a forest somewhere on Earth. He walked down the path and came 
upon a lake. He looked out across the small lake, and breathed in the brisk air. It almost smelled like the forests at 
home. He turned around, and saw a small cottage, and went up to it, knocking at the door.
 
(reply O'Connor)
 
"Mind if I join you? Looks like a very relaxing program."

(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2005)

Michael was sitting in the comfy chair in the living area of the
cottage, reading a book simply for the pleasure of reading.  Before he
had come to the holodeck that evening he had changed into some
recreational clothes, a nice Aran style sweater, and some loose
fitting jeans.  He had just put his cup of tea down when he heard a
knock on the door.

~~That's odd, I don't remember adding other humans to this
simulation~~  Micheal thought with a shrug, as he stood up and slid a
book mark into the book to save his page.  He walked slowly across the
room to the front door and opened it, revealing none other than the
second officer.

"Hello sir,"  Michael said, not quite sure how to great your superior
officer when standing at the front door to your imaginary cottage in
an imaginary forest.

"Mind if I join you? Looks like a very relaxing program."

"Not at all, Sir, come right in.  I can't say this is an exciting
program, but if you are just looking to relax, this is working wonders
for me.  Tea's on the table by the chairs in the living area, along
with some scones and jam, there's more food in the Kitchen at the
back.  Thought I saw coffee although you will have to brew it."
Michael said, as he lead Joran into the Cottage.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Lt Max - 2010)

Max continued to wonder which program he wanted to do. He finally rested on
one, and knew that he would need to reserve a holodeck or better yet one was
open. "Computer please show me available times for recreational holodecks."
 
The computer beeped and displayed the information Max asked for. Max looked
over the holodeck and most of the times were filled. It seemed alot of the officers
on board had the same plan he did. This made since to him since everyone person
on board needed some well deserved rest.

Max was determined to find something to do though. "Computer display
current running holoprograms."
 
Once again the computer worked, beeped, and displayed the asked information.
There were a few running, but one did stick out to him. The Chief of Ops was running
a program. It was a little bit more relaxed of a program than Max was looking for,
but there was nothing else for him to do. "Computer, show me who is in holodeck 2."
 
[Ensign O'Conner and Lt Brownlee]
 
"Thank you," Max said on instinct.
 
[Your welcome] the computer replied. Max laughed that even the computers
had better manners than some.
 
Max went over to the replicator. "15 SPF sunblock, and one large blue beach
towel." The computer materialized the items in front of him. He picked them up
and threw them on the table near him.
 
He walked to his bedroom and put on a bathing suit with a white shirt and flip
flops. He walked back through the living area and picked up the sunblock and
towel and left the room.
 
He walked to the nearerst site to site station. "Computer transport me to holodeck 2."
 
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - Lt Max - 2015)

Max materialized on the site to site station that was closest to holodeck 2. He
made his way to the holodeck doors where they opened and he entered.
 
He looked around and saw the nice forest, but what he was looking for was the
pond he read the program had. He walked down a trail for about 5 minutes and
came along a small cottage and a pond. He walked closer to the pond. He
looked around in the trees and decided there needed to be a swing. "Computer add
a rope to this program located near my feet."
 
Instantly a rope appeared below his feet. Max picked it up and swung the rope
around a branch on the tree next to him. After he tied a knot in it he grabbed the
rope and walked back about 15 feet. He ran with the rope in both hands and as
he neared the end of the dry ground he jumped and swung in the air. After a
few seconds he let go of the rope and his body continued to fly forward and
downward. His body then hit the water.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Ensign's Quarters - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2010)

The day went well for the Klingon beauty.  She saw her friend K'yp earlier and left him wondering, which was advice 
she learned from her mother.  ~~ Child, keep a man interested by keeping him wondering! ~~ she recalled.
 
There was someone else she wanted to see: her other friend, Oak-honor.  They had agreed upon a drink later in the lounge.  
She tapped her badge and spoke out.
 
"Computer, what is the location of My-kill Oak-honor?" she requested.
 
|| Michael O'Connor is in Holodeck 2.||
 
With a grin, she returned to her closet to change out of her uniform and into something more "comfortable".  The 
Klingon donned a maroon halter top that covered enough but also suggested enough as well.  She pulled on a pair of 
jean cut-off shorts, then slipped on a pair of Birks.  Her father's necklace finished the outfit.  A quick brush of 
her hair and she was out the door.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2015)

The doors to the holodeck opened as she approached.  She took in the scent of the forest and felt the cool breeze 
against her skin.  K'Palla smiled as looked around, impressed with the program that her friend had set up.  She saw 
the cottage not far off, and walked up to it.  The ensign opened the door and called out.
 
"Oak-honor!!  Are you here?" she spoke out.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2022)

Michael and Lt. Brownlee were sitting in the cottage when he heard the
door open and a voice call out.

"Oak-honor!!  Are you here?"

Michael chuckled recognizing both the voice and the unique
pronunciation of his name.  "In here K'Palla," Michael said loud
enough to carry to the front door.  He waited for K'Palla to walk into
the room before standing.  "Well it looks like we are getting our own
little party going here."  Michael said.  "Food's in the kitchen,
although I am sorry to say I didn't stock up on anything Klingon, hope
you don't mind Irish."  He said, taking in her outfit as subtly as he
could.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 2023)

As Kyp entered the holodeck, he was surprised at the scenery and that K'Palla wasn't alone as he had assumed. He 
reprimanded himself for making assumptions and stepped forward. "So...looks like we have our own little party going 
on here."

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 20:24)

Joran looked up and smiled as he saw Kyp enter the now rather filled cottage. "So...looks like we have our own little 
party going on here."
 
Joran laughed. "Well, you could say that. And what's a party without music? Computer, create a Vulcan Lute." The 
instrument materialized leaning against one of the chairs in the living area. Joran sat down, and picked it up. He 
sighed a little, thinking to himself ~Well, this is the first time I've ever played in from of anyone, but here it 
goes.~ He plucked the first few chords of an ancient Irish melody called Rosemary Faire, and soon began to sing:

"You may go down to Rosemary Faire
Every rose grows merry and fine
Pick me out then the finest girl there
And I shall make her a true lover of mine.


Tell him to find me an acre of land
Every rose grows merry and fine
Between the salt water and the sea strand
Or he'll never be a true lover of mine.


Tell her to send me a carembrick shirt
Every rose grows merry and fine
Made without needle or needlework
Or she cannot be a true lover of mine.

Tell him to bring it to Rosemary Faire
Every rose grows merry and fine
When he arrives there'll be nobody there
And he'll never be a true lover of mine."

(posted by Spencer)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 20:25)

Joran looked up and smiled as he saw Kyp enter the now rather filled 
cottage. "So...looks like we have our own little party going on here."
 
Joran laughed. "Well, you could say that. And what's a party without 
music? Computer, create a Vulcan Lute." The instrument materialized 
leaning against one of the chairs in the living area. Joran sat down, and 
picked it up. He sighed a little, thinking to himself ~Well, this is the 
first time I've ever played in from of anyone, but here it goes.~ He 
plucked the first few chords of an ancient Irish melody called Rosemary 
Faire, and soon began to sing:


"You may go down to Rosemary Faire
Every rose grows merry and fine
Pick me out then the finest girl there
And I shall make her a true lover of mine.


Tell him to find me an acre of land
Every rose grows merry and fine
Between the salt water and the sea strand
Or he'll never be a true lover of mine.


Tell her to send me a carembrick shirt
Every rose grows merry and fine
Made without needle or needlework
Or she cannot be a true lover of mine.


Tell him to bring it to Rosemary Faire
Every rose grows merry and fine
When he arrives there'll be nobody there
And he'll never be a true lover of mine."

"Wow," Kyp said, "that was great, sir."

(posted by Ben)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 20:25)

K'Palla was rumaging through the cabinets for some glasses.  She had found a bottle of Irish Whiskey and poured herself 
three fingers, leaving the bottle with the other glasses.  She was taking her first sip when she heard Joran start singing.  
She listened to the tune and it sounded familiar.  Something she had heard on Earth when she was in the Academy.  The words 
were different but the tune was the same.
 
She listened and then joined in singing harmony and in between his lines with a softer yet lower voice.  She winked at 
the CSO as she sang.
 
On the side of a hill in the deep forest green.
Tracing of sparrow on snow-crested brown.
Blankets and bedclothes the child of the mountain
Sleeps unaware of the clarion call.
 
On the side of a hill a sprinkling of leaves.
Washes the grave with silvery tears.
A soldier cleans and polishes a gun.
Sleeps unaware of the clarion call.
 
War bellows blazing in scarlet battalions.
General order their soldiers to kill.
And to fight for a cause they've long ago forgotten.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2, COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2028)

Michael listened to the Second Officers and then K'Palla sing then
decided to join in the music making.  Quickly and quietly he had the
holodeck add a Irish flute, he quietly joined in as the two were
singing, and continued playing after they stopped, changing the tune
into something more lamenting, the memories of the battle, only a few
hours gone, coloring his mood slightly.  He played an old tune,
'Culloden's Harvest', then put down his flute.

"Well," Michael said smiling to the now assembled group, "I think this
place has a pool table, somewhere, I can't say I've had a chance to
explore it yet, and even if it doesn't we can always add one.  Anyone
up for a game?" Michael asked.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Ensign Tristen - 2230)

Zack was restless, tired, grumpy, and not in a good mood. He walked into
his bedroom ready for bed. He was ready to 'hit the pillow', and let his body rest
from all the work.
 
He plopped on to the soft, and most relaxing mattress. He did not even have
enough time to pull the covers over his body before he fell into a deep sleep.
 
His body laid stiff still in the bed. His breathing was soft, and slow. His heart
rate began to level off to a normal rate. He than slipped into a REM sleep.
 
Through his eyes he could see his body when it was 6 years old. He watched
himself sleep in his old bed. He looked around the rom and saw his two
bothers sneaking out of the bedroom. Although is body was still lying in the bed
he began to follow his brothers leaving the room.
 
Zack could see the inside of his old house as he continued to follow his
brothers down the hall and into his parents bedroom.
 
At this time Zack knew what was about to happen. He knew that he was
dreaming when his brothers killed his parents. He wanted to wake up so he began
to scream as loud as he could.
 
Suddenly Zack popped his upper body up and began to breath hard. ~It was
another nightmare~
 
Zack remembered back to the investigations, then he remembered the
young councilor that helped through this the first time. ~It looks like I need
help again.~ Zack thought as he began to cry.

(posted by Calvin)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2030)

The music was relaxing, especially Oak-honor's flute playing.  K'Palla poured herself some more Irish Whiskey, as the 
COPS spoke up.
 
"Well," Michael said smiling to the now assembled group, "I think this place has a pool table, somewhere, I can't say 
I've had a chance to explore it yet, and even if it doesn't we can always add one.  Anyone up for a game?" Michael 
asked.
 
"Excellent!!" said the Klingon.  "I haven't played since the Academy!"
 
They found the pool table easily, and K'Palla grabbed a stick from the rack on the wall.  She spun it around like a 
quarter staff, then grabbed up the chalk cube, and proceeded to chalk up the cue's tip.  "I prefer Eight-Ball, but 
I'm game for anything!" she said with a wink.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2035)

They found the pool table easily, and K'Palla grabbed a stick from the
rack on the wall.  She spun it around like a quarter staff, then
grabbed up the chalk cube, and proceeded to chalk up the cue's tip.
"I prefer Eight-Ball, but I'm game for anything!" she said with a
wink.

"Well, then eight ball it is, you want to rack 'em or break 'em?"
Michael asked.

(Reply K'Palla)

"Excellent," Michael said, and chalked up a cue, ready for the game.
"So, K'Palla, learning your way around the ship ok?"

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 2036)

"I prefer Eight-Ball, but I'm game for anything!" K'Palla said with a wink.

"Well, then eight ball it is, you want to rack 'em or break 'em?" Michael asked.

"I believe the Terran term is 'Ladies first?'  So I will break!" grinned the Klingon beauty.

"Excellent," Michael said, and chalked up a cue, ready for the game.  "So, K'Palla, learning your way around the ship 
ok?"
 
"I do alright, Paladin is a big ship!  But I doubt that I will see every inch of it!" she admitted as she smashed the 
balls around the table.  Fortunately, one fell into a pocket.  "I will be solids!"
 
The Klingon took a very scientific approach to the game, with all the banking and vectors involved.  It was just a big 
calculated problem.  She sank a few more before finally missing one.  with a mild curse, she looked to Michael.
 
"You're up, Oak-honor!" she smiled, and took a seat on a stool near her drink.

(posted by John)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin - Holodeck 2 -  LT JG Steven Matrix  - 2037)

Matrix arrived at the holodeck doors after a few hours in engineering. 
He
noted a lot of activity on the engineering boards and wanted to see 
what was
keeping a number of the crew busy. The holodeck doors opened and Matrix
walked into what appeared to be a billiards pool hall. ~Wow, this is
interesting.~ Matrix walked inside, the holodeck doors closed behind 
him. He
could hear the sound billiard balls being hit and dropping. As he 
looked
around he noted the enjoyment everyone was having. 

Matrix approached on table where Ensign O'Connor and K'Palla were 
playing. 

"Excuse me, may I watch your game Ensign?" said Matrix to O'Connor.

(Reply O'Connor)

Matrix smiled and sat on a bar stool, near the billiard table and 
proceeded
to watch the two play an old Earth game.

"Ensign, how long have you been playing this game? It seems to be a 
simply
game of angles and physics." 

(Reply O'Connor)

"I don't think I've ever seen this game played before, but I've read 
about
it long ago. I didn't realize that there was a holoprogram on the 
subject.
Did you have the computer teach you how to play?" said Matrix

(posted by Steve)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, Holodeck 2 - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 2040)

It was Michael's turn to shoot when he heard the door open and a new
face walked into the room.

"Excuse me, may I watch your game Ensign?" said Matrix to O'Connor.

"Sure thing, L.T."  Michael said as he lined up for his first shot.
K'Palla was a scientist and was working the table as such, but Michael
wasn't a slouch with Math, and he also had been playing this game
since he was a kid.

Matrix smiled and sat on a bar stool, near the billiard table and 
proceeded
to watch the two play an old Earth game.

"Ensign, how long have you been playing this game? It seems to be a 
simply
game of angles and physics."

"Been playing it since I was a kid, or at least watching it since
then, been playing since I was tall enough to lean over the table."
Michael said, as he lined up his shot and took it, smiling up at
K'Palla as he cut the cue ball around the eight ball with a good
portion of English, dropping one of his stripes and banking the cue
ball back into position for the next shot.

"I don't think I've ever seen this game played before, but I've read 
about
it long ago. I didn't realize that there was a holoprogram on the 
subject.
Did you have the computer teach you how to play?" said Matrix

"Nope, my dad taught me to play, and my uncle.  Actually my uncle
taught me to shark," Michael said as he lined up his next shot, looked
up and K'Palla and gave her an evil grin as he shot blind, smiling
bigger as he heard the ball drop.  He ran the table for a few more
minutes before he had to safety the shot to put K'Palla in a bad spot.
 The game was still up in the air, both he and K'Palla were very good,
it was anyone's game, although Michael had a good feeling.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
Mission: Piercing the Iron Curtain
Mission Day: 5
Stardate: 2407.01.14
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, 'Fire and Brimstone' Marine Squad Bay, Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam, 0900)
(USS Paladin ? Ten Forward ? ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron and ACSO Ensign JG K?Palla ? 0927)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin, 'Fire and Brimstone' Marine Squad Bay, Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam, 0900)

Rellam finished dressing then pulled on his boots and strapped on his
sidearm before he walked out the door and across the hall to his
squads bunk room.  He idly reached over his shoulder and scratched a
spot high on his back between his shoulder blades.  New tattoo's
always made him itch for a day or two, but it wasn't anything that he
couldn't handle.  What he didn't want to handle was writing two
letters to the mothers and families of the Marines that had died under
his command.  He had never had to do it before, and he certainly
wasn't looking forward to it now, but that could wait until later in
the day.

Walking into the squad bay he looked around, everyone was already up,
and it looked like they had already had chow.  "All right grunts,
listen up,"  Rellam said in his usual calm level tone.  The room went
quiet and all 9 sets of eyes were on him almost instantly.  "Our job
is essentially over...for now.  You all did good yesterday, you should
be proud of yourselves,"  Rellam said, giving them praise they didn't
expect.  "We are still on alert so don't let your guard down too far,
however, I have managed to secure a duty exemption for you all for the
next two days," Rellam said this and heard the intake of breath from
his men.  He would have preferred to get his men leaves to a base of
planet side, but that wasn't possible, so the next best thing was to
get them a couple of days off, without the normal work and training
that was required.  What he didn't mention was that due to the loss of
two of the squad, Rellam barely had to ask for the passes, it was
determined that it was probably needed.  "Settle down, I'm not done.
You all know what this means, you are free, except in cases of
emergency, to do as you please, within the confines of the law and
good behavior, for the next two days, starting in one hour.  I however
have some words of warning.  Engineering is repairing the ship at the
moment, DO NOT get in their way.  There is to be no consumption of
actual alcohol, you are all still on alert and can be called back at
any time.  If I hear of a single incident of the Marine Guard unit, or
Ships security being called on a single one of you...lets just say,
you all will be sorry,"  Rellam didn't glare, didn't even raise his
voice, but every single Marine he was talking to, knew that he was
absolutely serious.

"All right, One hour until your pass starts, don't do anything to
disappoint me," Rellam said.  "Penn, Marks, come here."  Rellam said,
calling his youngest Private, and his second fire team chief.  When
the made it to the front of the he pulled them off to the side.  "I'm
going to ask you a favor, and that's all it is, you don't want to do
it, say so.  You two were the closest to F'lon and Terris, Someone
needs to pack their gear into their foot lockers and organize their
stuff so we can get it back to their folks, do you think the two of
you can do that before your pass starts?"  Rellam asked, to his great
satisfaction, he received back two nods to the affirmative.  "Good,
organize their stuff, pack it and seal it.  When you are done put them
by the door, I'll have the unit clerk come and pick them up.

"Aye Gunny," was all the response he got, it was all the response he
needed from them.  They wouldn't like the job, but they knew it was up
to them, as they knew the dead the best.  Better a friend packing your
stuff than a stranger, besides as soon as they started, the rest of
the squad would either help or leave them alone as appropriate.

Rellam dismissed the two and then headed back out the door and back to
his room/office, walking slowly to a job that he did not wish to do,
but like the job he had given his men, had to be done.

(posted by Patrick)
========================================================================================================================
(USS Paladin ? Ten Forward ? ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron and ACSO Ensign JG K?Palla ? 0927)

Kyp had gotten away from that rough nurse and had gone to Ten Forward for breakfast. He was starving; the food he had 
eaten last night in the Sickbay in Cargo Bay 3 did not hold him long. He tapped his commbadge to see if K'Palla wanted 
to eat with him. =/\= Durron to K'Palla =/\=
 
K'Palla had just stepped out of the sonic shower after her morning workout.  The holo-program "Gronk" had given her 
quite a challenge today, but she was able to prevail.  She wondered if anyone on Paladin would be able to handle Gronk's 
massive power.  She hated to fight alone.  She heard her comm-badge chirp and she trotted over to retrieve it.  "K'Palla 
here!"
 
"You hungry? I'm in Ten Forward, and I figured we'd have that drink now...and  meal while were at it."
 
"Excellent, K'yp!" she replied.  "Let me get dressed and I'll be there shortly!"  She wasn't due for any shift work, so 
the Klingon beauty decided to dress in something more casual.  She donned a black cotton tank top, with a pair of 
matching shorts.  A pair of sandals that laced up her calves finished the outfit.  As a last touch, K'Palla put on a 
necklace that was given to her by her father.  It was a platinum chain with a small charm of a ku'tluch, a type of 
Klingon dagger.  Once dressed, the ensign headed out to meet her friend.  She saw him as she passed through the doors 
and strode up to him, a big smile on her face.
 
Kyp's mouth opened and closed again without any sounds coming out. "You...uh...look nice today." Remembering his manners, 
he stood up and held out a chair for her. "Please. Have a seat."
 
"It is good to see you too, K'yp!" she grinned, pleased with the desired reaction, and took a seat.  "Thank you!"
 
"You're welcome." Kyp gave a small smile and sat across from her. "How are you this morning?" He waved his arm and 
called over a waiter.
 
"If I were any better, I'd be twins!" quipped the Klingon.  "I had an outstanding session in the holodeck!  It felt 
good to work out all those kinks I get when I'm hunkered over a terminal!"
 
Kyp laughed. "That I can relate to. I don't think I'll do a full workout today. Maybe a nice run. I better be careful, 
though. That nurse might come back and yell at me again."
 
"Can I see your arm?" asked K'Palla, curious about his scar.
 
"Which one?" Kyp asked. He had a lot of scars from his training as a youth.
 
"The one that was just injured!" said K'Palla, slightly surprised.  "You have more scars?"
 
He nodded. "Yes, quite a few." He rolled up the sleeve of his Academy T-shirt and showed her the scar from the gash he 
had received. "I didn't feel this one. I guess pain doens't register as much to me anymore."
 
"Hmmm!" she looked at the red mark, and nodded her approval.  "You wear it well, K'yp!  Scars are a mark of a true 
warrior!  I would never think of getting rid of mine!"
 
The waiter had finally made it over. "Can I get you two something today?" he asked.
 
Kyp looked to K'Palla. "Ladies first."
 
"Something light today!" decided K'Palla.  "An Elvis Special and an Ambassador to drink!"
 
The waiter looked a little perplexed.  "And what are those?" he asked sheepishly.
 
K'Palla sighed slightly, then explained.  "An Elvis Special is a hero-sized sandwich with peanut butter, bananas, 
strawberry preserves, and a pound of fried bacon!  And an Ambassador is a tall glass of chilled Prune Juice!"
 
The waiter tried to hide the odd look on his face as he turned to Kyp.  "And for you, sir?"
 
Kyp tapped his chin in thought for a moment. "I'd like a ham, cheese, and egg omelet. Give me some sour cream on the 
side. I'd like a coffee with that." The waiter nodded and moved off. Kyp leaned back in the chair. "So...how did you 
end up out here?"
 
"I transferred from one of the Klingon vessels.  I was a science liaison for the Federation!" she stated.
 
"Why were you transferred?" The waiter came back and sat their drinks on the table. Kyp added to creams and two sugars 
to it, stirred it, and took a sip.
 
"I was no longer needed!" said K'Palla. "The Chief Science Officer was killed and I was returned to regular duty!" 
 
"I'm glad you're here, then." Kyp idly sipped his drink for a bit. "I hope we don't have to fight to hold this station 
soon. I got trapped under a piece of bulkhead in the beginning of the battle."
 
"That is regrettable!  Did you miss a lot of action?  I was fortunate to face a few marines on the bridge of the 
Paladin!  The gates of Gre'thor greeted them with open arms!" said K'Palla, taking a long pull on her juice, savoring 
the rich flavor.
 
"Eh, not too much. I took a few shots at some marines before the bulkhead fell. I managed to shove one under it as it 
came down and he was crushed, but that was about it. Damage teams pulled me out after about two hours. It was really 
hot in that space, and I it was rather small."
 
The food came and K'Palla took a long sniff of her meal.  The combination of bacon, peanut butter, jelly, and bananas 
made her mouth water.  She tore into her food as if she hadn't eaten in days.  After the first swallow, she let out a 
slightly audible sigh.  She spoke up, not knowing there was a trace of slightly melted peanut butter dripping down the 
corner of her mouth.  "Mmmmmmm, this is fabulous!"
 
Kyp was methodically cutting away at his omelet, eating sliced off portions along the way. He was never one to rush 
anything if necessary. He grinned and started laughing at K'Palla. "I'm sure it is, but I don't think your cheek is 
the one hungry here."
 
K'Palla realized the mess on her face and licked it up with her tongue, which only spread the mess further on her 
cheek.  She attempted again, but failed miserably, which caused her to snicker hysterically.  "I must look a sight!  
A great warrior... beaten by a glob of Peanut Butter!" 
 
He laughed with her. "Sounds like a new holonovel coming out. Death by Peanut Butter."
 
"It would not be an honorable death!" she laughed even harder, so hard that a tear strayed from her eye.
 
Kyp rubbed his chest after he finished laughing. "That was good. Hadn't laughed that hard in a while. Ah, peanut butter, 
there are so many different jokes that can arise from your use."
 
"Agreed, I have not laughed so hard in a while!  You sound like Shakespeare, K'yp!" K'Palla commented.
 
Kyp laughed again. "I could never compare to Shakespeare, though I did act out a scene of Romeo and Juliet once. I think 
it was Act III, Scene IV. I played Mercutio. I fought with Tibalt and died, but I cursed both the Capulet and Montague 
families before I died. Was really fun to do...but we broke one of the swords in the process."
 
"An excellent play to be sure!  A shame about the swords!  Do you still perform?" asked the Klingon beauty, continuing 
to eat, but taking care not to make a mess again. 
 
"Not much anymore," Kyp said, eating a bit more. "It was a long time ago. Children's stuff when we did it. I can hardly 
remember the lines anymore."
 
"I perform on occasion, at least I did when I was in the Academy!" admitted the science officer.
 
"Really? What plays were you in?" asked Kyp, his curiosity chirping in at a new piece of information.
 
"Well, not so much in plays..." K'Palla sounded a bit embarrassed to be opening up like this to someone she just met.  
"I sing on stage."
 
A smile spread across Kyp's face. "I'd like to hear this sometime. That would be very interesting to hear. From the sound 
and texture of your voice, I would surmise you to be a good singer."
 
"Thank you!  I have surprised many people with my voice!  Most do not find Klingons synonymous with singing!  Most of 
us are stereo-typed to Klingon operas, you know!  If I have to listen to "Aktuh and Melota" again, I think I'd hurl!" 
she admitted with a smirk.
 
Kyp blushed a bit with the smirk, but his dark skin covered the fact. "What do you like to sing?"
 
"Actually, I favor an old artist from Earth, whom we call 'The Kang', but he was better known as Elvis Presley!" she 
said, her accent slurring the name.  "I have been told I'm the best Elvis Impersonator this side of the Typhon Expanse!" 
 
"Elvis...That's a little surprising. I would never have expected to hear that one." Kyp chuckled a bit. "How did you 
hear it the first time?"
 
"I was doing some research on Terran music appreciation at the Academy, so I visited his home, 'Graceland'." she 
explained.  "I heard 'Heartbreak Hotel' for the first time, and I was hooked ever since.  The impersonating came later, 
after someone dared me to enter a talent contest.  My hair works nicely into his 'doo?, and the snarling lip is a 
Klingon's natural _expression!"  K'Palla emphasized the statement with a perfectly mimicked Elvis face. "Uh-huh!"
 
Kyp laughed again. "That's pretty good." He ate a bit more of his food, and then set the fork down. He took another 
drink of his coffee.
 
"Anyway, I still practice on the holodecks when I get a chance.  Not that there's much call for a Klingon Elvis 
Impersonator!" she grinned and finished her sandwich.  "Maybe you'd like to watch sometime?" she offered.
 
"I'd like that," Kyp smiled.
 
"I would too!" K'Palla returned the smile.  There was a pause.  Then the Klingon beauty started to rise.  "Well, thank 
you for the company, K'yp!  I have to get ready for my shift!  I enjoyed talking with you!" she said.
 
Kyp stood with her. "I enjoyed it, too. Can I ask a question before you leave?"
 
"Of course!" her eyes sparkled.
 
His ears heated red and Kyp reached up and scratched the side of his head. "Why did you kiss me?"
 
"You saved my life!  I wanted to thank you properly!  Did I offend you?" she asked.
 
"Oh! No. No. It's not that. I was...um...just wondering."
 
"Wondering......what?"
 
Kyp nervously wiped his sweaty hands on his pants. "Why you did it. That was all."
 
"I did it because I wanted to do it!" she said as she leaned over and kissed him again.  It was just as lingering as 
the last one.  When she pulled away, she gave him a sly grin.  "Just like I wanted to do that!" 
 
Kyp felt like his face was going to burn off. A grin spread across his face. "Um...thanks..."
 
"You are very welcome, K'yp!  See you later!"  K'Palla said and turned to walk away.  She put a little extra sway into 
her hips as she made her way to the doors.
 
Kyp flopped back into his chair as he watched K'Palla exit. "Oh, sure," he said to himself, "You can fly a shuttlecraft 
through an asteroid belt to escape to the 52nd Fleet, wield a katana, and help with major repairs to a starbase but you 
crumble when a beautiful woman kisses you." He shook his head and sipped on his coffee.

(posted by Ben and John)
=====================================================================
END OF COMPILE

I hope you enjoyed!