USS Illuminar

Mission: In the Vanguard
Day: 4
Stardate: 2446.06.23
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(USS Raptor - Deck 17 - Marine Country - Major Audie Murphy - 0600)
(USS Raptor -Deck 2 - FO’s Quarters - FO Commander Sienna Verin and Lt. Commander
T’Mur - 0601)
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Counselor's Office - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0650)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - Biochemistry Lab - SciO - Ensign (sg) Skashe (Sky) Winters and CSO,
Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 0705)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0745)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room – ACEO Ensign Ssvresh – 0746)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0747)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room – ACEO Ensign Ssvresh – 0748)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0749)
(USS Raptor- Deck 1- Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0750)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0751)
(USS Raptor- Deck 1- Conferece Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0755)
(USS Raptor -- conference room -- 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0756)
(USS Raptor -- Deck 1- Briefing Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0757)
(USS Raptor -- Deck 1- Briefing Room -3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice - 0758)
(U.S.S. Raptor - Deck 1 – Conference Room - Marine - 2LT Charles Temerity - 0759)
(U.S.S. Raptor - Deck 1 – Conference Room - Marine - Major Audie Murphy - 0800)
(USS Raptor - Outside Conference Room - Deck 1 - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0801)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0802)
(USS Raptor -- Deck 1- Briefing Room -CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0804)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Major Audie Murphy - 0805)
(USS Raptor -Deck 1 -Conference Room - FO Commander Sienna Verin, Lt. Commander T’Mur
and Commodore Tahlmari - 0806)
(USS Raptor- Deck 1- Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0810)
(USS Raptor - outside Deck 1 Conference Room - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0811)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - Marine Major Audie Murphy - 0812)
(USS raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO - Captain Sekal - 0814)
(USS Raptor -- Briefing Room -- Deck 1 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0818)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0822)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0826)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0827)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CSec/Tac - Lt Commander T’Mur- 0828)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0829)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 Conference Room - Marine Major Audie Murphy - 0830)
(U.S.S. Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Marine - 2LT Charles Temerity - 0831)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CSec/Tac - Lt Commander T’Mur- 0832)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0833)
(USS Raptor - Conference Room, Deck 1 - Marine Major Audie Murphy - 0834)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0835)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0836)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0840)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CMO/3XO Commader Quinna Solice - Temas
Laredo - 0841)
(USS Iluminar - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0842)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0843)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0845)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0846)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0849)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0850)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice - 0851)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0852)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - FO Commander Sienna Verin - 0853)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0854)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0855)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0856)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0857)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Strategic Operations - Commodore Tahlmari - 0858)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0900)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CSec/Tac - Lt Commander T’Mur- 0901)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0902)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CSRD - Lt Bohb - 0903)
(USS Raptor -- Conference Room -- Deck 1 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0904)
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0905)
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Strategic Operations - Commodore Tahlmari - 0906)
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Counselor's Office - CO, Captain Sekal and Counselor Temas Laredo -
1115)
(USS Raptor - Deck 17 Marine Country - Major Audie Murphy - 1200)
(USS Raptor - Personal Quarter - Deck - SFI Lt. Michael Weston, and CMO/3XO Commander
Quinna Solice - 1600)
(USS Iluminar - Deck 10 - 10 Forward Lounge - Strategic Operations - Commodore Tahlmari
and Lt. Ariel Trei - 1700)
(USS Iluminar Science Deck - SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1735)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen- 1745)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office SPA LT Ariel Trei - 17.47)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 1749)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1750)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 1753)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1754)
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 1756)
(USS Raptor -- Personal Quarters - Deck 4 -- Bridge Pool Officer - Ensign Tavay – 2100)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 17 - Marine Country - Major Audie Murphy - 0600)

Audie stood in PT gear with the other marines. The daily dozen woke everyone up before a 5
km run. Having their own deck made it easier for them to run laps in the halls.

Each platoon ran together, and he ran with the Myrmidon along with his two tactical officer. He
chuckled as each group sang their own cadences, showing the overall attitude of each platoon.
As the marines finished their running, they reassembled in the main chamber.

Audie walked up to the head of the assembly. "Marines," he boomed. "Welcome to Mushroom
Central. We are here to do the will of the Federation. When, where and how is up to a higher
authority. We're meeting for the first time. I am Audie Murphy and I have two rules. First,
everyone fights and no-one quits. Second, never leave a Marine behind. Follow those two rules
and we'll get along fine. Today we keep unpacking and inventorying the gear. Training
schedules will be posted later today. As Josephus once said, "Drills are bloodless battles and
battles bloody drills. I subscribe to this philosophy so we'll be training a lot."

He looked around. "Dismissed," he said. He watched as the platoons dismissed their members
for showers or chow. Murphy headed to his quarters for a shower and to get ready for the
briefing, and hoped he would learn more about the reason they were on the Raptor, and why his
command increased by three score new members.

Tapping his com "Lieutenant Temerity, we have a briefing at 0800. Hopefully we'll learn what
Star Fleet has in mind."

Reply Temerity, any)
(posted by Tim)
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(USS Raptor -Deck 2 - FO’s Quarters - FO Commander Sienna Verin and Lt. Commander
T’Mur - 0601)

T’Mur lay in bed with Sienna in her arms. They had had quite a few days and Sienna had
earned her sleep in. The previous day started with a series of meetings followed by a shift
learning the new ships systems.

Last night had been their first night in their new quarters, but as exhausted as they were Sienna
had sent other ideas through their link. Ideas that T’Mur was happy to indulge her in. They made
love until Sienna fell asleep. T’Mur fell asleep listening to her breathing and woke up in exactly
the same position.

Leaning in she kissed her mate on the cheek, and said, “Wake up love. We have a meeting to
be at in two hours.”

Sienna snuggled down into her blankets. “Not enough blankets.” She muttered and tugged the
blanket back over her head to put her back into the blessed darkness. T’Mur was used to
Sienna’s non-desire to get out of her soft, luxurious bedding. The problem was that they had not
had the crate with Sienna’s soft pillows and blankets moved from the Illuminar as of yet. Sy was
unamused by not being a priority. T’Mur pulled the blanket off Sienna who made a displeased
sound as light hit her eyeballs.

“Go bother Sekal, T. Lemme sleep.” Sy murmured, her body turning to bury her face is a
traditionally hard Starfleet pillow. Sienna growled and threw the offending pillow across the
room, barely missing T’Mur’s head as she threw it.

Sitting straight up, Sy growled again, “I want my bedding aboard this ship before we leave dock.
Luma!” Sienna commanded.

=^= Luma is here Our Sienna! Good morning! It’s early! Why is our Sienna awake? =^=

“That’s an excellent question, Luma. Can you make sure that my personal belongings make it
from the Illuminar today? And can you grab Yeoman Whitney to unpack my bedding, please.
When I get back here, I want my bed to look like a nest of pillows and blankets, please. Being
the First Officer should involve some privileges.” Sienna thrust the rough blanket away in
disgust as she climbed out of the bed, wanting to kick the damned thing that wasn’t letting her
sleep. Glancing over at her lounging, quite naked mate Sy grumbled again. “Blasted Vulcans
and early meetings.”

T’Mur raised an eyebrow, “It’s illogical to blame an entire race for the scheduling of a single
meeting, my love.” She was, of course, being the Vulcan equivalent to facetious, knowing it
would cause a rise in her mate. She quickly ducked to miss the trajectory of a second pillow.
Luma manifested in the Quarters, and showed off a new trick of hers. She had learned how to
use the transporters to give weight to objects, and the hologram brought Sienna the gigantic
sugar concoction that she called coffee. =^= Caffeine, sugar and chocolate - the things that Our
Sienna runs on, but Luma has an idea! =^= Sy glanced over to T’Mur with a grin, Luma’s antics
were usually very entertaining. Luma moved over to the replicator and an effervescent green
drink in a tall glass with ice appeared.

=^= Our Sienna should try this! One of the new cadets likes it and says it is better than
coffee.=^=

“Better than coffee? I’m going to have to give it a try then.” Sienna set the mug of “coffee” aside
and took the glass from Luma. She sniffed it and then sneezed. “What’s this called Luma?
What culture is it from?”

=^= The early 2000s on Earth! They called it ‘The blessed green elixir, the dew of the mountain’
but Luma analyzed it most thoroughly and there is nothing from a mountain in it. It contains
much of the same molecules as that thing you call coffee but without the chocolate. It’s not
healthier, but it is different.=^=

Intrigued by Luma’s presentation, T’Mur sidled over to Sy and sat on the edge of the bed,
observing her lips touch the edge of the glass, warily. For any drink to give Sienna the promise
of better than coffee it had better deliver. And although she did not drink the beverage that she
loosely called coffee, she did enjoy feeling what Sienna felt when she consumed it, through their
link. It was … exhilarating.

Sienna put the beverage to her lips and sipped it. It was bubbly, good, sweet and it felt
energetic? But it wasn’t the concoction she preferred in the morning. “It’s pretty good, Luma
but I really need the chocolate to get going in the morning.” Sienna spoke with a smile, “It’s a
Betazoid imperative I believe.”

T’Mur gave her a dubious look but slid closer to her Sienna. As the Betazoid took a sip of her
“coffee” she leaned in and kissed her lips. There was such a mixture of sensations. The taste of
the chocolate and coffee, the taste of her mate, and the sensation of her pleasure at both of
those at the same time in their telepathic connection. She could feel Sienna’s arousal.
“No, Sienna,” she chastised her carnal thoughts, “we must pick up Commodore Tahlmari and
escort him to the meeting.”

She stood up and walked to the bathroom to shower. Suddenly she sent an image of both of
them in the shower together before she disappeared into the bathroom.
Sy grumbled but followed her mate. If she had to be awake, then she could have some fun.

(reply none)
(posted by Al and Mel)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Counselor's Office - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0650)
The morning had gone well, for both himself and for Luma. After she had made her way into
her new skin, he could feel her excitement as she investigated and played. Stretching her new
"muscles". He had wanted to go to his quarters, but he knew that if he did, he'd probably lie
down and fall asleep. He wanted to be awake and ready for the crew's first shift. And it wasn't
like he didn't have things to do.

So he went to his office and emptied the contents of the box he'd brought from the Illuminar. Of
course that wasn't much since he only came with the clothes on his back. He wanted to get
something to decorate his walls with, but they really hadn't had the time.

He sat down at his desk as his comm badge chirped.

=^= I would like to make arrangements to come in next week.=^= It was Doctor Solice. He was
pleased that she was seeking out time. He was afraid that he was going to have to hunt her
down like he has had to for the other senior officers. =^=Let me know who is available and what
time.=^=

"Dr. Solice, I'm so pleased to hear from you. I'd love to talk with you. But we don't have to wait
until next week. We could talk today, if you like? For you, I'm available any time."

(reply Soloice)
(posted by Al Muir)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - Biochemistry Lab - SciO - Ensign (sg) Skashe (Sky) Winters and CSO,
Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 0705)

He had already been through the physics lab which was aligned and calibrated according to the
specifications of the CSO aboard so hadn't touched anything. One thing he was noticing about
the labs were the size which had him wondering what astrometrics was going to be like. So to
say the least he was getting excited since he routinely pulled shifts there.

 He ran his hand over the globular molecular analyzing unit as he made the rounds of the room,
the scanner which digitally enhanced molecular objects and had replaced the electron
microscope was next. He passed a cabinet with beakers, pipettes and abutted by an infrared
oven before turning, he had barely gone through a third of the equipment here. The ultrasonic
cleaner was on the other side along with three terminals which could be tied together.
Biochemistry wasn't Skashes' strong point but he was more than conversant with it.

Luma'lenai's joyous starsong had been playing through the speakers for a quarter of an hour
which he had been smiling about, the entity had found her new home in the computer core.

He turned to go and gave a start, he hadn't heard the door open. A Betazoid Lieutenant
Commander was looking at him over wire rimmed spectacles. The frames were ultra thin and
light, the man's brown hair was speckled with grey and his dark eyes were pronounced.

"Good morning sir."

"Good morning." The man's gaze passed over his pointed ears then back to his eyes. "I take it
you are Skashe Winters."
"Yes sir." That gaze was backed by a very firm look. Skashe automatically saluted and stood at
attention.

Holis stepped farther into the room. "Son of Vice-Admiral Winters."

"Yes sir." Skashe was getting uncomfortable with his stare.

"A two year, career ensign."

That made Skashe even more nervous. "Uh, yes sir."

The Betazoid crossed his arms. "I'm doctor Holis Gralen, your chief science officer. I've delved
into your reports and and am glad for the chance to talk to you without interruption Mr. Winters."

"Sir?"

"Coasting and just getting by isn't going to work with me Ensign Winters. I expect you to bust
your ass in my department. You are highly intelligent and you are going to put that intelligence to
use, I'm going to pull it out of you. I know your mama and I'm not scared to cross her. Do you
understand me?"

Sky gulped. "Yes sir."

"You are going to distinguish yourself and advance. Am I clear?"

"Yes sir."

"Good." Holis looked about before his gaze settled on him. "I'm assigning you primarily to
astrometrics. I want you to spend the next two days familiarizing yourself with the setup. After a
few days of travel I'll review your participation and we will go from there."

"Yes sir." Skashe had no problem with that, he enjoyed astrometrics unlike most of the officers.
"I'll make you happy sir."

"Good. Dismissed." Holis watched the Vulcan/Betazoid/human hybrid hurry past him and leave
the room then smiled, he had a lot of talent around him that he planned to make good use of.
Skashes' sister Celiste was next on his list to talk to.

(Reply: None)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 1 Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0745)

Ariel entered the room as she normally did for a meeting. Before she took a seat near the front
of the table, she ordered a strawberry scone and a glass of Earl Gray with honey and lemon.
She took her seat at the table and put her PADD down on the table. She would like it if Zara
can sit next to her to help her through the routine of it but that remains to be seen. There was
much to discuss with her to prepare her for combat. Zara needed to be ready to defend herself
and Ariel will try to prepare Zara.

(Reply, Any)
(Posted by Edward)
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(USS Raptor, Conference Room – ACEO Ensign Ssvresh – 0746)

Having spent the last day becoming familiar with the hard reality of the Raptor’s systems, the
Selay engineer was feeling less daunted by the prospect the new ship represented. That said,
they’d not done anything to truly test those systems yet – and no telling how things would go
once the ship began to feel the stress and to push back against their demands.

Arriving a few minutes early for the briefing, Ssvresh saw that he was not alone and approached
one of the officers already seated around the table. “Is thiss seat taken?”

(Reply Trei, any)
(Posted by MCD)
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(USS Raptor, Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0747)

She was reading from her PADD when ENS Ssresh asked if the seat next to her was taken.
She didn't know if she met him yet but more likely this was the first time meeting him. The seat
was open at the moment so she made a gesture to have a seat. Seeing he had an engineering
uniform they had someone they mutually knew in Zara. She could talk about her.

"Have a seat. I don't think we have met before. I am Ariel Trei. You may call me Ariel. What
may I call you?"

(Reply Ssresh)
(Posted y Edward)
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(USS Raptor, Conference Room – ACEO Ensign Ssvresh – 0748)

"Have a seat. I don't think we have met before. I am Ariel Trei. You may call me Ariel. What
may I call you?"

The Selay officer lowered into the chair and gave his name with a lingering hiss; “I am Ssvresh.
What do you think of our new assignment? She is a big ship – a presence!”

(Reply Ariel)
(Posted by MCD)
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(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0749)

Zara filed into the Raptor conference room with the senior officers. Being the lowest officer rank
and out of the Academy for such a short time, she felt both thrilled to be included and out of
place.

Over the last few days, the reasons for being on Mars and for leaving the Illuminar had been
shrouded in mystery. The CO and FO were in meetings. Security was tight. Leaves were
cancelled. Movement was restricted.

Something big was coming and it seemed it was time to learn what that was.
Scanning the room for an available seat, Zara saw Ariel, who was eating something, talking with
Ssvresh from engineering. Quickly making her way, Zara plopped into the chair next to Ariel.

“I am Ssvresh. What do you think of our new assignment? She is a big ship – a presence!”

Before Ariel could reply, Zara jumped into the conversation.

"A presence indeed. The Raptor is big. The quarters are nice, better than I expected for an
ensign jg. Have you seen the science labs? I could spend a week there and not be bored.
Why do you suppose we're here? What do you think is going on?"

Zara glanced at what Ariel was eating.

"Is that a strawberry scone? Do you like it? Of course you do. Maybe I should try one. No, this
is an important meeting. Time to snack later. Oh, this is so exciting!"

(reply Ariel, Ssvresh, any)
(posted by Mary Lou)
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(USS Raptor- Deck 1- Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0750)

Sekal walked in and noted that the room was already filling up, he moved to the head of the
table and looked about.

"Good morning Ensign Ssvresh, Ensign Khatri, Lieutenant Trei."

(Reply: Any)

The Captain sat back. "I'm expecting the others to be along shortly." His eyes turned to the door
as it opened to reveal his new chief science officer. "Dr. Gralen."

"Good morning captain." Holis looked about the room then quickly moved to a seat, plopping
down beside the young woman in teal.

"Ensign Khatri." He said brightly. "I've been meaning to catch up with you, I'm glad to see you
here. After this meeting I'd like to talk with you a bit and go over how I run the department, your
duties and such."

(Reply: Khatri)

"The Ready Room will serve in that capacity doctor, I need to speak with you both following the
meeting."

"Splendid captain!" Holis adjusted the thin, wire frame spectacles. "We will be there with bells
on."

"Bells are not a required item of ornamentation for your uniform." The Vulcan dead panned.

Holis chuckled as he glanced at Zara and winked. "Yes sir."

(Reply: Zara, any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0751)

"Oh, this is so exciting!" said Zara.

"Good morning, Ensign Ssvresh, Ensign Khatri, Lieutenant Trei."

Recognizing Captain Sekal's voice, Zara sat back in her chair and folded her hands on the
table. "Good morning, sir."

An officer in science blue entered.

"Doctor Gralen," said Sekal.

Zara watched the new arrival as he moved around the large table and sat next to her. He
greeted her and said they would talk about the science department after the briefing.

Before Zara could say anything, the captain stated he would meet with them in his ready room.
That seemed to thrill Gralen.

It was going to be a busy morning,

(reply any)
(posted by Mary Lou)
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(USS Raptor- Deck 1- Conferece Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0755)

Tegian entered the Briefing Room, one of the few places he hadn't explored in the twenty-four
hours since he'd transported to the Raptor. He'd had all of Engineering studying the
specifications of the Raptor when he met with them at 1400 yesterday. After a short meeting
where he'd laid out the new shifts, with the leaders staying the same, just some reshuffling of
personnel, he dismissed everyone to finish unpacking their gear, and then told everyone to
spend the rest of the day poking into every nook and cranny of the ship that wasn't private.
They could do it in groups or alone, but take along a PADD and make notes of the differences
between the Illuminar and the Raptor. They were going to be responsible for maintaining this
ship. They needed to get to know it.

And then Tegian had grabbed a PADD and headed for the Bridge, figuring he'd better make an
appearance there. And then he'd spent much of the day and the night climbing through Jeffries
tubes with his PADD, reading about the location and then making notes. He'd come up with at
least a couple of dozen ideas for drills that Engineering needed to do to familiarize themselves
with this new ship


He saw that the Captain had arrived before him and nodded. "Good morning, Captain."

Tegian moved to the replicator, putting his PADD down in the middle of the table and getting a
green tea flavored with strawberry this morning. He returned to his PADD and sat down, staring
quietly into his tea while he waited for others. As they came in, he greeted them in a soft voice,
but didn't engage in any conversation.
(Reply None)
(Posted by Keith)
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(USS Raptor -- conference room -- 3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0756)

When Quinna entered the conference room, she recognized that she was not the first one there.
Ariel, Trei, Pex, and Ssvresh were seated and already engaged in something or other. Quinna
did not take the time to focus on what was going on. She had drawn into herself so deep that
only Michael could pull her out. This morning she was doing the motions on a self autopilot
mode. Today marked day 7. 7 days from having the baby. 7 days from losing her child. How
was she supposed to be expected to be ok for this?

Taking a deep breath she heard something from the outside. She looked up as she was facing
the windows. Then she saw him. She was curious about the man outside the ship.

She brought her attention back to the table, she built up the energy to say “Good morning.” as
she waited for the meeting to begin.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Kris B)
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(USS Raptor -- Deck 1- Briefing Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0757)

Doctor Solice entered the room and Tegian's heart nearly broke just seeing her. He wasn't sure
what to do for her or what to say, but he wanted to give her a hug. He knew that was
inappropriate so instead, at Pex's urging, he jumped out of his seat and pulled out a chair for
her. "Doctor Solice, would you like anything to eat or drink?" He knew he was being an idiot, but
he just wanted to be kind to her.

(Reply Solice)
(Posted by Keith)
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(USS Raptor -- Deck 1- Briefing Room -3XO/CMO Commander Quinna Solice - 0758)

 "Doctor Solice, would you like anything to eat or drink?" Pex had provided a small distraction.
Quinna had not realized until he pulled the chair for her. His momma raised him right.
“Oh, Lt. Pex.” Quinna took a seat, “Thank you. And I am fine, I am not hungry or thirsty.”
Quinna gently put the usual PADD that she had since she started the academy. There was
much much information on it.

“How are things, Lt. Pex?” Engineering all set the way you like it?”

(Reply Pex)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(U.S.S. Raptor - Deck 1 – Conference Room - Marine - 2LT Charles Temerity - 0759)

Temerity was following the passageway on his way to the turbo-lift as the major stepped out of
his quarters as the second lieutenant was passing. They exchanged greetings as they
proceeded to the conference room on deck one.
While on the turbo-lift Charles noticed the sidearm that the major had attached to his belt.
Temerity had decided to have only his twin bowie-knives under his uniform jacket. He figured
after the last briefing he attended, and it got ugly after asking a question as simple as the
identity of the author of an intelligence brief. Perhaps he had seen for too much to blindly
accept what is said from on-high.

Exiting the turbo-lift, they entered the briefing room and looked around. Temerity held no illusion
that Starfleet would give the Marines the information they really needed, fleet rarely did.
Charles made it a point to greet and, in some cases, exchange handshakes and some chit-chat
with everyone whose path he crossed on his way to an available chair he had set his sights on.

Taking a seat next to the commander of the Marine contingent with his back to a wall, he looked
around and put a defiant smirk on his face to counter the major’s scowl. As a freighter captain
fighting pirates, Charles learned to smile hungrily in the face of one’s enemy if for no other factor
than the mental games. If done correctly, it makes those that think themselves wolves feel as if
they were sheep.

While the Fleet and the Corps shared common goals toward the protection of the Federation. It
was like two rival clans fighting for the same cause. Briefings like this for joint service missions,
the Corps always fell under Fleet, and there was a plethora of reasons each resented the other.
On an individual basis, Charles had nothing against members of the fleet, and he hoped that
philosophy went both ways.

Weeks prior, Temerity had promised Murphy that he would try to behave, but he was not going
to pull any punches when it came to getting the information the Corps needed to achieve its
objectives. Temerity legitimately respected most that would be attending this briefing, even the
ones he had not gotten to know yet. There were some others that he had almost no respect for.
He respected their rank and position, but that was it. If for no other reason than the
disrespectful way, they treated the Marines.

“Why don’t they publish an Op-Ord (Operations Order) like we did years ago? Then we would
know what the hell is going on and what is expected from us so we can plan accordingly without
it being last minute off the hip.” Temerity commented to no one in particular.

(Reply: Murphy, Any iyw)

(Reply: Murphy, Any iyw)
(Posted: Charles Raschen)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(U.S.S. Raptor - Deck 1 – Conference Room - Marine - Major Audie Murphy - 0800)

Murphy noticed his lieutenant didn't wear his sidearm. Probably a safe bet after the last briefing.
He was happy to let his lieutenant be the stalking horse in the meeting, it served his purpose to
watch the others around the table. He would have to have his intelligence officer make nice with
the crew to see what he could learn. It was frustrating that the two groups often worked cross
purpose. His Marines could do a lot, when pointed in the right direction.

"Why don’t they publish an Op-Ord (Operations Order) like we did years ago? Then we would
know what the hell is going on and what is expected from us so we can plan accordingly without
it being last minute off the hip," the lieutenant asked.
Murphy chuckled, answering in a stage whisper, "Mushrooms," he said. Looking around the
table, "The replicator makes a credible mushroom risotto, if you have not tried it."

Looking at the CMO, "Dr. Solice, if you can be spared, I was hoping my medics could get some
refresher training from you. It would be good to augment their training with time running
simulations under the watchful eye of a Chief Medical Officer. Might make all the difference for
my marines in the field."

(Reply Solice)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Outside Conference Room - Deck 1 - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0801)

Shaw and his damage control team had been assigned to a repair chore
outside the ship. The four of them were suited up and in the airlock.
Each of them checked the other one more time to make sure everyone was
sealed. Confirming that, Shaw closed the inner door and activated to
the atmosphere exchange.

Moments later, the outer door opened to space. Shaw consulted his map
on his HUD and started out. Step by step with the magnetic boots, they
made their way from the airlock to the location where they were to be
working.

He assigned the team to the different areas they needed to check and
repair as he made his way to outside the officers Conference room. He
peered in and noticed many of the officers that had transferred over
from the Illuminar. He'd not met most of them but expected at some
point he would.

Pulling out his spanner, he started removing the maintenance hatch to
gain access to the guts. He wasn't paying attention and banged one of
his tools against the window.

(Reply, officers in the briefing)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0802)

Temas didn’t like the idea that he was running late, but he hadn’t really been notified that he was
expected until the last minute. The insights that he had gained from his time with the First
Officer, perhaps, gave him some room for input. Although he knew absolutely nothing about
these creatures that had been plaguing Verin’s mind.

Q had given her an insight that her mind had not been prepared for. He hoped that, over time,
he would be able to help her repair that psychic trauma. Working with both Verin and T’Mur
together would be his best remedy.

He walked into the the conference room and the first thing that caught his eye was a crewman
on the outside of the hull, looking in through the view port. He thought that odd, but then the
eyes of the others turned and faced him. He could sense the tension in the room. It wasn’t
directed at him, in particular, but it was there.

“I apologize for be late Captain Sekal,” he said, giving no further excuse.

Walking around the table he found an empty seat. He noted that there were still three other
empty seats, which meant he wasn’t the last to arrive. He took a deep breath as he sat down
and nodded at each person at the table.

(reply Sekal, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor -- Deck 1- Briefing Room -CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0804)

“Oh, Lt. Pex.” Quinna took a seat, “Thank you. And I am fine, I am not hungry or thirsty.”
Tegian pushed the chair gently in and returned to his own seat.

“How are things, Lt. Pex?” Engineering all set the way you like it?”

Tegian shrugged. "The Raptor's a lot more ship for my department, Doctor. As capable as we
are, I'm concerned there's not enough of us to go around. Then again, if this is just a once
around the block shakedown, we can probably tough it out."

“How are you ... doing, ma'am?"

(Reply Solice, iyw)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Major Audie Murphy - 0805)

Murphy checked himself in the mirror again. Everything was in place, and he fastened his side
arm to his belt before heading up to the briefing. He nodded to Temerity as he fell in step.

Exiting the turbolift, they entered the briefing room and looked around. Last time they had a
briefing, things got a bit heated. He was ok with Temerity being his attackdog to see what really
popped out, cause he was not sure Star Fleet would give him the information he really needed.
Taking a seat with his back to a wall, he looked around and put on his classic scowl.


(Reply Temerity, any)
(posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor -Deck 1 -Conference Room - FO Commander Sienna Verin, Lt. Commander T’Mur
and Commodore Tahlmari - 0806)

They had gone to collect the Commodore from his quarters before the meeting. HOwever, they
had not anticipated the slow gait that the Zakdorn walked with. His limp slowed them down
immeasurably. By the time they arrived at the conference room they were late. T’Mur had no
appreciation for lateness, in others nor in herself, but she held her self in check to be respectful
of the age and knowledge that Tahlmari brought with him.
“Forgive your people for their tardiness, Captain Sekal,” Tahl said. “I’m afraid I don’t move as
quickly as I used to.” He emphasized his statement by slowly limping a seat near the captain
and easing himself down.

If T’Mur didn’t know any better, he seemed to slow down and speed up at will. It seemed that he
enjoyed just walking around with the two women.
Sienna followed her mate and their tardy guest into the briefing, and taking T’Mur’s hand she led
her over to the seat next to her. Sienna was chronically late - she was not good at leaving
problems alone, and getting this adviser to the meeting was her task today. That the three were
only five minutes late was impressive.

“My apologies, we were escorting the Commodore. It seems there is some problem with the
communications array - some of the invitations to the meeting went astray.” SIenna nodded
towards Temas as she looked around the room, “Is everyone here familiar with Mr. Temas
Laredo? He is Luma’s bond-mate and when the inevitable issues arise as the crew get used to
Luma, and she to them, you can find the time-out shuttle in the hanger deck?” She looked to
Temas with a grin, “To rescue your errant crew.” Sienna poured herself a cup of coffee and sat
back.

Temas hid a smile and just shook his head. He knew exactly what she was talking about.

(reply any)
(posted by Al and Mel)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor- Deck 1- Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0810)

There had been discussion going on as the Captain waited on stragglers to arrive, it must be
noted that the two primary ones were command officers. And there was another issue as he
looked about the table, one department was not represented. Well, not technically since there
was an individual from operations present as he had found out when inquiring about the window
cleaner who was clinging to the hull outside.

He opened the comm. "Since Mr. Shaw is a spectator in operations he might as well take part.
Summon him inside and send him to the primary briefing room."

=^= Aye sir. =^=

(Reply: Shaw)

Sekal stood to his feet. "While we wait for Mister Shaw and our stragglers to arrive we will begin
with departmental reports. Dr. Gralen will be followed by Major Murphy. After Major Murphy
Commander Solice then Lieutenant Pex. I want to know the state of readiness of your
departments and whether any equipment is required, also state drills or training ongoing.
Anything related to the function needs to be addressed.

After departmental reports are complete there will be an abridged version of our upcoming
mission followed by a detailed overview for security and the marines."

He looked directly at the Betazoid. "Dr. Gralen?" Then sat down.

Holis cleared his throat as the door opened and Tempest Greywolf entered.
"Sorry Captain."

"Ms Grewolf your departmental report will follow Lieutenant Pex."

"Yes sir." Tempest took the nearest seat as Holis dipped his head and began.

"I have been aboard two days and have been running diagnostics and function checks on the
lab equipment. Everything has been functioning within tolerance. The sensor suites for the ship
have been calibrated and read green but I'm going to want to check them out exhaustively after
we leave dock and compare them against known readings. The department is well staffed and
I've been touching bases with the new officers coming aboard and assigning duties. Catching up
with Illuminar officers should be completed today. There are no outstanding issues at this time."

"Thank you Doctor Gralen. Major Murphy." Sekal motioned to the marine and waited for his
report.

(Reply: Murphy)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - outside Deck 1 Conference Room - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0811)

James had just finished one section of the work and was adjusting his harness to move to the
second area when his com chimed.

=^= Ensign Shaw, you are ordered to report to the Conference room, Deck 1, at your earliest
convenience. =^= came the voice.

Shaw did a double take, and cocked his head to one side, "Uh, can you repeat that last
message," he said. "I thought you said to report to the senior officers briefing. I am most
definitely not a senior officer."

=^= Don't think to hard Ensign Shaw. You heard correctly. Captain's orders. =^=

~The Captain.~ He had seen the new captain when he came aboard, but had no other
interactions. With a crew of 500, an Ensign ranked low on the depth chart. That, and well, he's
been working on the Raptor for a while now and was not part of the Illuminar invasion. In fact,
other than the cute Romulan, Tavay, his new roommate, he'd not met anyone.

"OK. Message received. It'll take a bit to get there," he said.

=^= With all do haste Ensign. With all do haste. =^=

(USS Raptor - Airlock 1 - Deck 3 - Ensign James Shaw - 0821)

Shaw finished cycling the Airlock and stepped into the dressing room. No matter what anyone
said, it took a good 10 minutes to get out of a space suit, stow it properly and get dressed. He
began peeling it off piece by piece. Stowing each one in his cubby for review by another team
later. Once he was stripped to his undergarments, he pulled out his uniform and began
dressing.
Finished with that, he stowed his toolkit and signed in. ~Time to face the music~, he thought.

(USS Raptor - Conference Room - Deck 1- Ensign James Shaw - 0835)

Shaw stood outside the door, psyching himself up. Perhaps the Captain wanted to thank you
and his team for their work. Maybe he could get a better look at that blue uniformed woman he
waved to from outside. Wishing he had a drop of the Pure to give him courage, he entered the
room.

All eyes turned to him, so much for a quiet entrance. He sat down in the first seat he could find
and waited.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - Marine Major Audie Murphy - 0812)

Murphy sat ramrod straight when the Captain started the meeting. He could already feel it was
going to be another Charlie Foxtrot. He sat through the report by the science officer talk about
meeting the science team. He shook his head, why were his Marines here when there was a
whole science department and laboratories. That was wasted space on a warship, like the old
Defiant or Steamrunner class. Heck the Akira class, with its shuttle complement could provide
the air support his Marines would need.
'
"Thank you Doctor Gralen. Major Murphy." Sekal motioned.

Murphy stood up, "Sir, will an Op-Ord for this mission be published?" he asked before
continuing, "The Raptor has a three platoons of Marines. One platoon of heavy weapons.
Lieutenant Temerity has been assigned to lead the recon squad, the Myrmidons. They will be
our eyes and ears. Short of planet busting weapons, the Marines are fully equipped. Final
checks are being made today and Lieutenant Poole is overseeing the final checks. Training
schedule is being finalized by my platoon leaders and will begin later today. For your officers
understanding, our daily PT begins at 0600, and includes a 5 kilometer run around deck 17. I
would discourage them from coming down to visit during that time, unless they wish to get run
over."

He paused, "I would like Captain M'Melar to interface with your tactical and intelligence
departments so we have the most up to date information. I am aware that on the Illuminar the
Myrmidons interfaced and worked closely with your security department. Given the increase in
the Marine contingent, should you wish that to continue, I would recommend you send your
security to deck 17 and participate in the Marine's drills."

"That is all, for now, Sir," he concluded before sitting down.

(Reply Sekal, any)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO - Captain Sekal - 0814)

Sekal watched Commander Verin enter as Major Murphy was speaking.
"Sir, will an Op-Ord for this mission be published?"

"Affirmative. You will have access to all of the operational intelligence available to us and rules
of engagement."

The major then began his report.

Training schedule is being finalized by my platoon leaders and will begin later today. For your
officers understanding, our daily PT begins at 0600, and includes a 5 kilometer run around deck
17. I would discourage them from coming down to visit during that time, unless they
wish to get run over."

"I believe the officers will be busy enough with their own duties that they will not be an
impediment to your operation major."

"I would like Captain M'Melar to interface with your tactical and intelligence departments so we
have the most up to date information. I am aware that on the Illuminar the Myrmidons
interfaced and worked closely with your security department. Given the increase in the Marine
contingent, should you wish that to continue, I would recommend you send your security to deck
17 and participate in the Marine's drills."

"A logical suggestion. Due to the nature of this mission I expect security and the marines to
work closely together to coordinate defensive as well as offensive operations." The Captain
concurred.

(Reply: T'Mur iyw)

"That is all, for now, Sir,"

Sekal looked toward Quinna as Murphy sat down. "Commander?"

(Reply Solice)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor -- Briefing Room -- Deck 1 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0818)

Quinna sat at the meeting and it felt very different. She knew she needed to snap out of it to be
able to do what was expected of her but she was hurting inside. When Pex asked how she was
doing all Quinna could do was reply, “I’m here.”

Then Muphy asked Quinna about extra training for the field medics. She made notes in the
PADD. “I can make arrangements for that. No worries.”

And then it came and the meeting started. She sat there and listened to the captain and to
others speak but everything seemed to go in one ear and out the other. Luckily she registered
her rank being said.

Sekal called her out "Commander?"

“Sir?” Quinna started, “Oh yes of course. “Sickbay is stocked. We are waiting for some special
medical equipment that I like to have on hand and some incidents I like to put in the medkits
throughout the ship. Sickay will be running a bit differently during this mission. Dr. Kyllee will
handle the medical as the lead doctor. I will be working on the administration side unless there
is an emergency that will require my presence. I still have yet to meet with the counseling
team.” Quinna admitted.

(Reply any in Meeting)

Quinna sat back down after her “Stand and Deliver” report. She sat there as the meeting
continued. She only looked up from her PADD when the door slid open. She looked at the
man. He looks very different without his EVA suit. She gave him a small wave. It seemed
appropriate since he waved at her.

(posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0822)

Tegian watched Major Murphy and Doctor Solice present their department status, since this was
the first time he could remember having to do this. When it was his turn, he stood, straightening
his uniform as he did.

"Captain, the Illuminar Engineering department met yesterday at 1400 where they were told to
review the specifications of the Raptor and then to explore every non-private corner of this ship
and make notes. I've also asked my ACEO, Ensign Ssvresh, to book as much holodeck time for
our shifts as possible so that we can practice repair drills for every major system. Sir, what's our
mission? I'm concerned that we don't have the capacity to cover this ship unless this is just a
quick shakedown trip."

(Reply Sekal)

Tegian sat back down.

(Reply Any)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0826)

"Captain, the Illuminar Engineering department met yesterday at 1400 where they were told to
review the specifications of the Raptor and then to explore every non-private corner of this ship
and make notes. I've also asked my ACEO, Ensign Ssvresh, to book as much holodeck time for
our shifts as possible so that we can practice repair drills for every major system. Sir, what's our
mission? I'm concerned that we don't have the capacity to cover this ship unless this is just a
quick shakedown trip."

"Your questions will be answered after the departmental reports Lieutenant." Sekal made a vee
with his fingertips. "The security department has one hundred individuals who are cross-trained
and certified for repair duty to assist with ship repairs and another fifty who have intensive
responder training to assist the medical department. You may call upon those trained within your
purview to analyze their capabilities and use in drills to ensure they will be adequate for your
needs."

(Reply: Pex iyw)
He turned to T'Mur. "Lieutenant Commander T'Mur what is the report on security?" He looked
about. "Counselor Laredo will follow tactical and security."

(Reply: T'Mur)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0827)

"Your questions will be answered after the departmental reports Lieutenant." said the Captain,
making a vee with his fingertips. "The security department has one hundred individuals who are
cross-trained and certified for repair duty to assist with ship repairs and another fifty who have
intensive responder training to assist the medical department. You may call upon those trained
within your purview to analyze their capabilities and use in drills to ensure they will be adequate
for your needs."

Tegian, having sat down nodded. "Thank you, Captain. Lieutenant Commander T'Mur, with
your permission, may we schedule drills with members of security for cross training?"

Tegian wondered how Security got so large. It wasn't that large on the Illuminar.

(Reply T'Mur)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CSec/Tac - Lt Commander T’Mur- 0828)

T’Mur listened to the reports from the others, taking in the information.

"Lieutenant Commander T'Mur what is the report on security?" He looked about. "Counselor
Laredo will follow tactical and security."

T’Mur stood up and looked at her PADD briefly. She had already memorized the data but she
she also realized that she needed to deliver her report with care.

“The security department is five times larger in the Raptor as it is on the Illuminar. I am still
working through the scheduling, integrating our existing force with that which was already here. I
am looking at a rolling series of layered shifts rather than simple sets of Alpha, Beta and
Gamma shifts. At the moment I have set up a shift change every four hours in which half the
shift will rotate. I will be happy to explain that further in private Captain. Unless you like to hear it
now.”

(reply Sekal)

“As for teaming up with the marines, we have already had an ongoing arrangement with them
on the Illuminar. I trust that we can continue a similar arrangement on the Raptor.”
She looked at Murphy matter of factly, “I would, however, caution the marines' continued attitude
of superiority over my security people. I do believe they are each capable of an equitable job,
and those attitudes do create a division in the teams.”

(reply Murphy)
“I will have a schedule of interdepartmental drills prepared by tomorrow by 1000 hours.” She
looked over at Pex and nodded. “That would include engineering.”

(reply Sekal, Murphy, Pex, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0829)

“I will have a schedule of interdepartmental drills prepared by tomorrow by 1000 hours.” said
Lieutenant Commander T'Mur as she looked over at Pex and nodded. “That would include
engineering.”

"Thank you," replied Tegian, something that the Captain said about security's size sinking
through. How did the Lieutenant Commander have so many people? That wasn't the size of
her command on the Illuminar. He tapped a few buttons on his PADD and realized his own
department had grown to 75. He kicked himself mentally for not checking the engineering
department when he came onboard instead of just contacting Illuminar engineering. He didn't
expect that anyone had set up things in the computer, so he'd used what he had had from the
Illuminar.

Tegian wasn't sure he kept a good poker face when listening to Major Murphy, Lieutenant
Temerity and Lieutenant Command T'Mur trade barbs. He had respect for all of them and didn't
like that they couldn't seem to find common ground. He saw Ensign Khatri's reaction and heard
her chuckle and he gave her a small smile before assuming a neutral face.

(reply none)
(posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 Conference Room - Marine Major Audie Murphy - 0830)

“I would, however, caution the marines' continued attitude of superiority over my security people.
I do believe they are each capable of an equitable job, and those attitudes do create a division
in the teams.” Commander T'Mur said.

Murphy chuckled, "With all do respect Commander, there is a significant difference in the
training, experience and rules of engagement that my Marines operate under compared to Star
Fleet Security. We're first in, last out. We take the challenging missions and execute them
successfully. We provide and project force that the Federation deems necessary. I disagree
with you that each are capable of an equitable job. Our missions are completely different and it's
better to realize that now and develop plans around that."

He paused, "On the Illuminar, there were 10 marines, and at the recommendation of Lieutenant
Temerity, there was cross-training, and my marines served as support for the security
department. Now there are 70 marines, and I need to hone them into a cohesive fighting force.
We will be training, as I said, on deck 17. Once I have assessed the qualities of the team, I will
be ready to discuss possible joint training."

Murphy looked around the room, and back to T'Mur, his voice low. "One more thing,
Commander, with all due respect, Those marines have earned their swagger, having survived
the most difficult training and boot camp in the Federation. It is that training and a marines
single-minded purpose that earned them the nickname of Devil Dogs at the Battle of Belleau
Wood, and have distinguised themselves in every combat before and after that."

(Reply any - T'Mur, Sekal)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(U.S.S. Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Marine - 2LT Charles Temerity - 0831)

Charles paid as close attention to the meeting as he could but felt himself getting irritated at the
cheap verbal shots at the Marines from the Chief of Security when she stated “I would, however,
caution the Marines' continued attitude of superiority over my security people. I do believe they
are each capable of an equitable job, and those attitudes do create a division in the teams.”
Commander T'Mur said.

Just before Major Murphy began his reply, Charles said under his breath, “It wasn’t Marine
‘attitude of superiority’ that insisted that the Marines be forced to wear Security gold uniforms on
the Illuminar while performing security duties.”

Before Temerity realized it, Murphy looked around the room, and back to T'Mur, his voice low.
"One more thing, Commander, with all due respect, those Marines have earned their swagger,
having survived the most difficult training and boot camp in the Federation. It is that training and
a marines single-minded purpose that earned them the nickname of Devil Dogs at the Battle of
Belleau Wood and have distinguished themselves in every combat before and after that."

Charles had always respected the Major for his rank, position, being in the service, and simply
because he was a living sentient being. But in that moment as Murphy verbally fired back at
T’Mur, Temerity had begun to have a genuine respect for the man himself. As Murphy finished
speaking, Charles held up his right hand in what he referred to as the ‘British three-finger salute’
and mouthed the word “Cheers” as he ran his middle finger over his eyebrow.

(Reply: Any iyw)
(Posted: Charles Raschen)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CSec/Tac - Lt Commander T’Mur- 0832)

T’Mur’s sharp Vulcan ears picked up on Temerity’s comment under his breath. Her eyes
narrowed at it, but his timing was excellent as she didn’t have time to respond before Murphy
started his response to her recommendation.

When he finished T’Mur took a breath and said. “I find it intriguing that started with all due
respect, which then followed by a display of lack of respect. Actually, the lack of respect began
when Lt Temerity questioned my request to have marines wear security uniforms while
performing security details on the Illuminar. If you recall, Lieutenant, that request was made to
create a united front on the ship, and not have a joined force of us and then. If also recall, Lt.
Temerity, you agreed to that recommendation. So, from a historical point of view, that was not
“forced” on you but rather agreed upon.”

Then she turned back to Murphy, “Major, while I agree that your marine training is different than
security training, since you and your people are trained for war, and mine are trained for peace,
Inwould say that both of our teams are best trained for the duty they perform.”
She paused and then continued, “I also agree that the duty you will be performing on the Raptor
will be different that non the Illuminar. I can appreciate the skills that your people bring to the
table. However, I also believe that any time one group believes that they are superior to another
there is no longer room for respect. There is then only room for conflict. In this mission I believe
that we will all be required to work together. We will not have the ? to be us and then in a fight.
That division could prove to be our undoing.”

“You may feel that your people have “earned their swagger,” but it is my belief that mine have
earned their due respect.”

“He answer,” she concluded, “is that we are my people and your people. We are us, with two
very different parts of the same job. I would not want all of my security staff in engineering, nor
would I want all engineers in security positions. However we are all going to need to work
together. That would be the reason for interdepartmental drills. As Lt. Pex suggested. Would you
at least agree with that?”

(reply Murphy)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0833)

“The security department is five times larger in the Raptor as it is on the Illuminar. I am still
working through the scheduling, integrating our existing force with that which was already here. I
am looking at a rolling series of layered shifts rather than simple sets of Alpha, Beta and
Gamma shifts. At the moment I have set up a shift change every four hours in which half the
shift will rotate. I will be happy to explain that further in private Captain. Unless you like to hear it
now.”

He shook his head. "No explanation is necessary. Having a layered approach which allows you
to assess multiple shifts is a logical approach. I agree. The reason for the larger complement of
security is due both to the the mission and the ship type we have been assigned to. Under
normal conditions the departments would be proportionate however this situation is not normal
as you will find out during the briefing portion."

T'Mur appeared to find that an acceptable explanation... for now.
“As for teaming up with the marines, we have already had an ongoing arrangement with them
on the Illuminar. I trust that we can continue a similar arrangement on the Raptor.”

She addressed the next to the major. “I would, however, caution the marines' continued attitude
of superiority over my security people. I do believe they are each capable of an equitable job,
and those attitudes do create a division in the teams.”

(reply Murphy)

“I will have a schedule of interdepartmental drills prepared by tomorrow by 1000 hours.” The
chief of security included Lieutenant Pex. “That would include engineering.”

(Reply: Pex iyw, as much as you want)

The captain looked toward the door as it opened and one of the Raptor crew entered then took
a seat.
"Ensign Shaw are you not?"

(Reply: Shaw)

The Vulcan settled back. "As you are most familiar with preparations on board the Raptor within
your department I would like to hear the state of readiness of Operations. You will follow
counselor Laredo."

(Reply: Shaw)

Sekal gave a brief nod. "Counselor Laredo, your report please."

(Reply: Temas, any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Conference Room, Deck 1 - Marine Major Audie Murphy - 0834)

“I find it intriguing that started with all due respect, which then followed by a display of lack of
respect. Actually, the lack of respect began when Lt Temerity questioned my request to have
marines wear security uniforms while performing security details on the Illuminar. If you recall,
Lieutenant, that request was made to create a united front on the ship, and not have a joined
force of us and then. If also recall, Lt. Temerity, you agreed to that recommendation. So, from a
historical point of view, that was not “forced” on you but rather agreed upon," the security chief
said.

"Commander T'Mur," Murphy began, "If you have issues with my staff, you deal with me directly
and I will address them. I don't know how it is in Star Fleet, but a Lieutenant doesn't make
agreements to change uniforms. The buck, as they say, stops with me."

“Major, while I agree that your marine training is different than security training, since you and
your people are trained for war, and mine are trained for peace, I would say that both of our
teams are best trained for the duty they perform," T'Mur replied before continuing “I also agree
that the duty you will be performing on the Raptor will be different that on the Illuminar. I can
appreciate the skills that your people bring to the table. However, I also believe that any time
one group believes that they are superior to another there is no longer room for respect. There
is then only room for conflict. In this mission I believe that we will all be required to work
together. We will not have the ? to be us and then in a fight. That division could prove to be our
undoing.”

The Major leaned forward, staring at T'Mur "I believe it was General John Pershing who asked
'Why in hell can't the Army do it if the Marines can. They are the same kind of men' why can't
they be like Marines?'" He paused, "We are the tip of the Federation spear. If you or those
under you have an issue with that, that is their problem, not mine and not my marines." He
paused a moment, "We are all biased by our past, our training, so I can forgive your inaccurate
perception."

She continued, and concluded by saying “The answer, is that we are my people and your
people. We are us, with two very different parts of the same job. I would not want all of my
security staff in engineering, nor would I want all engineers in security positions. However we
are all going to need to work together. That would be the reason for interdepartmental drills. As
Lt. Pex suggested. Would you at least agree with that?”

"To quote General Krulak, 'Being ready is not what matters. What matters is winning after you
get there.' Get us there and we will do the job," Murphy said.
"I am sorry Commander T'Mur that you clearly missed it when I stated that first I needed to
assess the quality's of the team, hone them into a cohesive fighting force and then would be
ready to discuss joint training. You must first learn to walk before you can fly, Commander. That
is not my rule, but natures."

He sat back, and looked to the Captain, "Pray tell, Sir, can you share any more information
about the mission, or shall we continue to harvest mushrooms for the officer's mess?"

(Reply Sekal,T'Mur, IYW)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0835)

"Pray tell, sir, can you share any more information about the mission or shall we continue to
harvest mushrooms for the officer's mess?" said Major Murphy.

Zara had remained quiet while the others gave their departmental reports. They were important
and necessary, but she was there to hear why they had been ordered off the Illuminar and onto
the Raptor. Something important was happening and something big was coming, and it was all
she could do to keep from jumping up and waving her arms for the captain to tell them.

Zara did notice the counselor's inappropriate mentioning of a counseling session with Doctor
Solice. Medical things were to be private and confidential and he should have known that.

What intrigued her most was the bickering between security and the marines. Commander
T'Mur was right that both groups were different, but when the marines admitted they deserved
their swagger, it was obvious they did believe they were superior. What they did was needed,
but Zara had trouble understanding having pride in killing other beings and the kind of person
that would feel that way.

Zara thought about asking the major if he would care to have a conversation about proving that
algebraic topology can never have a non-self-contradictory set of abelian groups. See if he still
thinks he's superior.

She chuckled.

Realizing her mirth was a bit louder than intended, Zara pretended to be reading from her
PADD.

(reply any)
(posted by Mary Lou)
 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0836)

James had tried to be quiet as he snuck into the conference room. He had just slid into his seat
when the Captain looked at him. "Ensign Shaw are you not?"
That surprised James, so he jumped up to attention. "Sir, yes sir. Damage Control Officer,
Ensign James Shaw, sir."

The captain looked at him, "As you are most familiar with preparations on board the Raptor
within your department I would like to hear the state of readiness of Operations. You will follow
counselor Laredo."

A look of confusion crossed James face. Familiar with Operations. He stuttered, "Uh, but Sir, I
am a junior Ensign and in charge of a damage control party. I don't have any information about
the readiness of operations. I just practice drills with my team and do what I'm told. Sir.”

(Reply Sekal)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0840)

Temas had listened to Quinna’s report as she said, “I still have yet to meet with the counseling
team.”

“I am ready when you are Doctor,” he replied. “We can meet after this if you like.”

(reply Solice)

Then T’Mur gave her report. When she was done he stood up. “We’ll, I’m not exactly sure what
to tell you. I have already met with most of the Illuminar’s crew with a few notable exceptions. I
understand how busy you have all been over the last week, but I still need to talk with you
Captain Sekal. I was hoping we could do that later this morning.”

(reply Sekal)

“Commander Solice is already taken care of,” he continued, “so that leaves Lt. Commander
T’Mur. And Commander Verin had promised we’d all have lunch together. Today might be a
good day for that.”

T’Mur raised an eyebrow at the suggestion then glanced over at Sienna. “I am prepared to eat
lunch with you Mr. Laredo. If Commander Verin is available.”

(reply Verin)

“That takes care of that,” Temas said satisfied. “As for the rest of the crew, for the most part,
have come through their experiences with the virus quite well and are all fit for duty. Even
Ensign Long is coming along. I did meet with her last week, since Dr. Solice was unavailable.”
He looked over at Sekal and smiled, “Is there anything else you need to know, Captain?”

(reply Sekal, Verin. Solice)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CMO/3XO Commader Quinna Solice - Temas
Laredo - 0841)
Quinn finished her brief but accurate report. The captain said nothing about her report but she
did not expect a reply. She is usually kept a tight ship on sickbay. What surprised her was what
Temas said next.

“I am ready when you are Doctor,” he replied. “We can meet after this if you like.”

Did Temas just say in front of the whole group that they could meet for a counseling secession?
Now everyone knows she is seeking counseling. She took a deep and looked at Temas with
her lost eyes. “I appreciate that, Counselor, I have things to do after this meeting, so in a day or
two of course. I was actually referring to the meeting as a team with the department to make
sure everyone is settling in and the changes I am implementing for the next few weeks.”
From there the meeting continued. Quinna made more of an effort to pay more attention in the
meeting.
(Reply Anyone)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Iluminar - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0842)

Temas saw the look on her eyes and resisted the urge to reach in and see what she was
thinking. Instead he analyzed the words she said. He must have misinterpreted her meaning
earlier.

“I apologize for the misunderstanding,” he said. “I presumed you were speaking of the
mandatory meeting that you missed a couple of weeks ago. However, the offer remains.”

“I appreciate that, Counselor,” Quinna said. “I have things to do after this meeting, so in a day or
two of course. I was actually referring to the meeting as a team with the department to make
sure everyone is settling in and the changes I am implementing for the next few weeks.”

“Ahhh,” Temas replied, looking every bit as young as he was. “I apologize again. I can’t speak
for Counselor Hammons. But I am at your disposal. Aliyah has been … having some time to
herself since… for the last week. I can check in on her and see when she can meet, if you like?”

(reply Solice, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0843)

“I am ready when you are Doctor,” The Counselor replied to Commander Solice. “We can meet
after this if you like.”

(reply: Quinna)

There followed a discussion between security and the marine contingent. After that had
concluded Counselor Laredo presented his report.
“We’ll, I’m not exactly sure what to tell you. I have already met with most of the Illuminar’s crew
with a few notable exceptions. I understand how busy you have all been over the last week, but
I still need to talk with you Captain Sekal. I was hoping we could do that later this morning.”

"What time Counselor?"
(Reply: Temas iyw)

"1100 would be agreeable, I will meet with you in your office."

An invitation to T'Mur and Verin followed with an invitation to lunch.

(Reply: T'Mur, Verin)

Once that was concluded. “Is there anything else you need to know, Captain?”

"Thank you Counselor, that will be all."

"Uh, but Sir, I am a junior Ensign and in charge of a damage control party. I don't have any
information about the readiness of operations. I just practice drills with my team and do what
I'm told.
Sir."

The Vulcan was unperturbed. "How would you classify your training Ensign? Has it been
detailed and comprehensive? Are you equipped to deal with an emergency should it arise? Or
do you believe further training is necessary and I would like examples so that I can target further
operations."

(Reply: Shaw)

He nodded his head. "Your input has proven to be valuable."

He then turned to Sienna.

"Commander Verin do you have any concerns about personnel or equipment that should be
brought up at this time?"

(Reply: Sienna)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - DCO Ensign James Shaw - 0845)

"How would you classify your training Ensign? Has it been detailed and comprehensive? Are
you equipped to deal with an emergency should it arise? Or do you believe further training is
necessary and I would like examples so that I can target further operations," the Captain asked.

James stood there, all eyes on him.

"Ah... um .. well," he stuttered. "My TO, my training officer says there is never enough training.
She has been having my team run three drills a day. Always surprises, like real emergencies.
We stay away from the big engineering things, but focus on the secondary systems and
computer core for example. My TO says that to be equipped for an emergency is 95% keeping
your cool." Shaw paused to think some more.

"I'm sorry Sir," he stuttered some more, "I ... ummm.. am not sure what I can offer. This is my
first assignment out of the Academy and this is such a new ship, half the manuals haven't been
written yet. Most of the procedures are, according to my TO, Ass-fricking-backwards, written
and designed by monkeys and completely unhelpful. Sir."

(Reply Sekal, IUW)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0846)

She listened to Shaw's report and his take on the systems on the Raptor. His candor was
refreshing. She thought that she was a free thinker and even freer mouth but Shaw proved her
wrong. She liked the man and would like to talk with him openly about anything. It will be a
great time telling things like it is. She can imagine monkeys working at various stations even
her department with monkeys watching video all day. The monkeys would offer their opinion
about anything they saw on video. She responded in her mind to Shaw as a monkey would but
didn't vocally respond what she was thinking . Though it would be a great release on tension if
she did jump up and down at her seat like a monkey. It is good that she didn't do so.

(Reply Any)
(Posted by Edward)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0849)

He was aware of the question that all had on their minds and would get to that at the proper
time, after Sienna had finished her report he continued.

"Shift times and order are hereby changed. All command and senior officers including assistants
are now on Alpha. Alpha shift is changed to 1000 hours to 1800 hours but during an alert all will
take control of their departments. Beta shift will be 1800 to 0200 hours and Gamma 0200 to
1000. Are there any questions so far?"

(Reply: Any)

"The bridge has ample stations for all and unless you are needed for direct, hands on oversight
that is where you will be, monitoring the assets from the command center. The only exception to
that is the marines, they have their own deck and a complementary commission though
detached from standard StarFleet operations. Their zone of control and command center is on
deck 17."

His eyes swiveled to major Murphy. "The marines have a very specific duty set and will be
called upon where and whenever needed but let me be clear, I expect full adherence to orders
as well as respect to the chain of command. If respect is not shown to my command officers I
can and will see that changes are made before we launch. Lieutenant Commander T'Mur is now
my second officer, give her the respect she is due."

(Reply: Any)

"As for the mission as given us by StarFleet Command." Sekal stood to his feet. "Computer
show the Typhon Expanse."

The area above the briefing table all the way to the ceiling filled with a volumetric display of that
area of space in three dimensions, 500 light years deep.
"We are being sent on a scouting mission to determine if an enemy of the Federation is making
a move toward us. Everything we know about the Xenolithe will be covered during this meeting.
Security/tactical and the marines will have immediate access to the full suite of information
following the briefing, the other department senior officers are being exposed to this but it is
considered need to know information for the rest of the crew."

His eyes traveled about the table. "Doctor Gralen, the Illuminar encountered an anomaly during
an earlier mission in romulan space and took in-depth readings of it. Command believes that
these readings will assist us in circumnavigating the Expanse. What do you know of it?"

"The Typhon Expanse?" Holis' eyes narrowed in thought briefly. "Almost totally unexplored due
to temporal flux and spatial instability."

"Correct." The vulcan noted. "Scans of the maestrom have given what the science division
believes to be a working framework for not only detecting but avoiding local space distortions
and that data has been made available to your department. Science will be crucial in providing
early warning and course corrections to helm as we penetrate the expanse."

"Understood sir. I can't wait to get my eyes on that data and will get to work on it as soon as you
are done with us." He turned to Zara. "Expect some cramming over the next few days, it will be
a lot like the academy."

(Reply: Khatri)

"To continue...," Sekal touched a button on the holo control which had appeared and the view
changed to one of the Nageri. "We are tasked with a fact finding mission only and are to refrain
from combat if it can be avoided. It is not known if the Xenolithe are currently there. If we are
unable to avoid coming to blows with them the Nageri, living ships enslaved by the Xenolithe will
prove to be a formidable opponent. Lieutenant Pex, the engineering department along with
operations may become hard pressed to keep the ship functioning at an optimum level during a
battle and you don't have much time to acquaint yourself with the ship, eight days by my
calculation before we make the expanse. When and if we will find them waiting is unknown."

(Reply: Pex, Ssvresh)

"Lieutenant Greywolf." Tempest had slipped in earlier during the meeting and had gone largely
unnoticed.

"Yes sir."

"The science department will be feeding you real time information on local space once we enter
the expanse which should give you an overview and allow you to make course corrections or
adjustments as required."

"Understood sir. That will be very helpful." Tempest gave an inaudible sigh as she sat back, this
was going to require an extra set of eyes at conn.

"As for the Xenolithe themselves...," the captain continued. He touched another control and
video of the Xenolithe rending apart marines in BDU began playing. "... at distance they have
weaponry equal to our own but hand-to-hand their claws and strength are unmatched. Keep
them off of you if possible. Energy weapons are less effective due to their resistant exoskeleton,
use phasers at the higher settings and maintain the burst until they are taken down. If in hand to
hand as a last resort use bladed weapons to their joints to effect."

He touched another control and the video began playing of the brikarian demolishing three
Xenolithe. "The brikarian's encounter shows that extreme strength and blunt force trauma can
incapacitate them. Marine BDU strength assists may be helpful in this regard during an
emergency but is not assured."

Looking about, he folded his arms. "Are there any questions?"

(Reply: Any)

He looked directly at Quinna. "Doctor Solice as you are already aware, if we encounter the
Xenolithe and are unable to avoid fighting them casualties may be high and medical will be
stretched. I will leave you to any arrangements that need to be made."

(Reply: Quinna)

His voice was sharp as he spoke again. "I am aware that engineering and medical may have to
make use of elements from security at various points and you don't have much time to assess
them. Make what arrangements are necessary in order to make it happen. If we are hard
pressed by the Xenolithe they will not take a break to allow us time to reorder our assets."

(Reply: Any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0850)

Reacting to what Captain Sekal was saying, Zara was glad to be assigned to alpha shift. Being
new, she presumed she would get the night shift. It felt good inside to be on duty with the
higher ups.

The captain addressed the marines, putting to rest the bickering. That was a good thing. He
could order them to show respect, but he couldn't make them mean it. It would be an interesting
situation to scientifically observe.

Finally getting to the reason for all the cloak and dagger the last few days, they would be going
to scout the Typhon Expanse to determine if an enemy was coming. That both excited Zara and
scared her. Whoever it was had to be formidable to send a ship like the Raptor.

"Expect some cramming over the next few days," said Doctor Gralen, addressing Zara. "It will
be a lot like the academy."

"I'm looking forward to it." Zara was, but her stomach was churning over possibly meeting a
hostile enemy.

Hearing about living ships fascinated Zara so much, she leaned closer to the holo image, all her
trepidations disappearing like they were never there. She hoped there would be an opportunity
to study one.
Hearing about the Xenolithe, Zara felt jittery again. Watching the footage of close combat with
them and what they did to the poor marines, her face went ashen and her lips wrinkled. She
had to take deep breaths and force herself to not deposit the contents of breakfast onto the
conference table.

From deadly nanites to Xenolithe. It seemed there would never be a dull moment.

(reply any)
(posted by Mary Lou)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice - 0851)

It did not slip by Quinna that the Captain did not have a comment about her report but then
again he could just agree and had nothing to add to her report. Besides the words between the
marines and T’Mur did take over the meeting for a bit.

After it was reeled in, the meeting continued and Quinna continued to sit emotionless. Her
empty eyes found their way to a spot on the wall. She may not have been looking at anyone,
in particular, she was listening to every word that people said. As everyone was being updated
on the Typhon Expanse and the potential encounter with the Xenolithe. As discussions went
around, preparedness came to her.

He looked directly at Quinna. "Doctor Solice as you are already aware, if we encounter the
Xenolithe and are unable to avoid fighting them casualties may be high, and medical will be
stretched. I will leave you to any arrangements that need to be made."

Quinna turned her head and face the Captain’s gaze, Still no signs of emotions, just quiet self.

“I understand, sir. Medical will be as overly prepared as usual.” Quinna then once again found
her spot on the wall.

(Reply any)

With his big voice, Captain Sekal added. "I am aware that engineering and medical may have
to make use of elements from security at various points and you don't have much time to assess
them. Make what arrangements are necessary in order to make it happen. If we are
hard-pressed by the Xenolithe they will not take a break to allow us time to reorder our assets."

(Reply: Any)
(Posted by Kris B)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO, Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0852)

The Captain then changed the shift times. Tegian didn't really care, but found it concerning that
he was expected to be on the bridge more often. He was a hands-on leader. He let the shift
leaders rotate their people for bridge duty and only took it himself on important occasions while
he stayed either in his office, Main Engineering or out repairing something. He didn't want to
say something here, so he tabled it, thinking to speak with the Captain, later.

And then they got the mission briefing. Tegian knew of the Xenolithe. But, not much more than
was here.
The Captain gave Tegian and his department a timetable. Eight days to reach the expanse.

"Captain, how long before we leave the dock?" he asked, wondering how long the trip would be
versus how long they'd be connected to the umbilical. He could drive his team hard in drills
when the ship wasn't traveling. Once they left the dock, he had to leave some skeletal crew
from each shift available.

(Reply Sekal)

Tegian watched, with some horror as the Xenolithe ripped through marines in BDU. He looked
over at Major Murphy and Lieutenant Temerity.

"Captain, do we know what their claws are made of? It has to be more than their strength that
allows them to go through our armor like that."

(Reply Sekal)

The Captain reminded them that time was at a premium. "Captain,if we stay in dock longer, we
could use the Illuminar's holodecks and any others here to train. From what I've seen of the
schematics, the Raptor has only three holodecks, two on Deck 5 and one on Deck 17. With all
the training we need to do, having access to more holodecks for another few days would be
useful," suggested Tegian.

(Reply Sekal)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - FO Commander Sienna Verin - 0853)

"Commander Verin, do you have any concerns about personnel or equipment that should be
brought up at this time?"

Sienna sat up further, "No Sir. The communications relay issues are being resolved by 1200.
The pre-flight checks seem to be coming up green. I think we're ready to launch and do basic
flight trials, then proceed to warp within the time-tables given by the Admiralty. My only real
concern is going to be how the new crew integrate with the Illuminar. There are going to be
some inevitable clashes, but I trust our people" Sienna had already dealt with two of those
issues and appropriate bribes to calm the ruffled feathers had been sent.

She looked down at her notes again as the Captain moved onto the Xenolithe portion of the
briefing and began to take fast notes from that. A few minutes passed and she was shocked
when their 'expert' that the Admirals had sent just walked out of the briefing. Sy looked to Sekal
curiously, the shock apparent in her expression. Should she follow? The slight shake of Sekal's
chin kept her in her seat.

"Our expert appears to have left. We know what the claws and the exoskeleton are made of. We
have a lot of limited information, but we do have some. Our job is to find out more, as stealthily
as possible. Pex, Bohb, can you two get with Penn and Teller and see about rigging up some
defense against those claws. It sounds like we aren't going to be able to 'stand and tank' the
way that Federation troops are trained to do. I am well known not to be a fighter however, but
the scientist in me thinks that we can figure out a way to negate those claws. Short of issuing
swords to slice arms off, of course." She looked over to T'Mur. Sienna wanted to fight T's battle
with the Marines for respect, but that was hers to fight.

"The other idea that is niggling in the back of my mind is, well." Sienna leaned slightly forward,
"We have a fairly well studied nanite that decimated us. Can we use that nanite technology
against the Xenolithe? Specifically, that nanite was targeting the carbon, correct? Can it be
reprogrammed, re-engineered to affect the duranium or tritium that the species uses so
extensively? Turn the armor and weapons brittle." She looked around the table, "The Illuminar is
a science and exploratory vessel. We have some of the brightest Federation minds. Let's
brainstorm people. No idea too stupid. Lay it out." Sienna was challenging her people to start
thinking and stop reacting. They could vanquish this foe...enough to survive at least.

(reply Pex, Bohb, Sekal, etc any at the meeting)
(posted by Mel)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room SPA LT Ariel Trei - 0854)

She saw what the Xenolithe look like and they resembled metal bugs. She never seen anything
like this species. She has seen images of the Borg which her father has encountered. He told
her of the harrowing fight. These metal bug guys seem to be much tougher. A klingon never
shows fear but she felt a sense of apprehension facing this enemy partially because they were
new to her and partially because she didn't know how to deal with them yet. She had some
ideas on how to approach the problem but she didn't want to verbally suggest it until it can be
scientifically hashed out with Zara. She didn't want to look stupid even though no suggestion is
stupid at this point. The idea concerned the nanites. If what Sienna suggests is right, the
nanites will in essence eat the metal leaving their armor weak and brittle. That may work
initially. Ariel had a different idea along the lines of what Sienna is suggesting. She had an
idea that serve 2 purposes. One is the weaken their armor. The other is to dismantle their body
if all goes right. The concept is that nanites eat their armor but also in the process disrupt their
body connections essentially crippling the Xenolithe for the munching in key places. The claws
would have to be dealt with too. She imagined the nanites feasting on the Xenolithe armor
making it weak. The nanites would feast on disrupting their skeletal structure and muscular
structure leaving them much slower than before. Hopefully that will allow us to survive the
encounter. She needed to talk with Zara to confirm the theory. For now she acknowledged
Sienna's theory as a good suggestion.

"That can work. Can the nanites also eat places like skeletal joints and muscle connections in
the process?"

She threw it out there even though it was not scientifically confirmed. She will confirm that later
with Zara.

(Reply Sienna, Any)
(Posted by Edward)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0855)

"Captain, how long before we leave the dock?"

Sekal turned to face the engineer. "Estimated time of departure is 0500 tomorrow."
"Captain, do we know what their claws are made of? It has to be more than their strength that
allows them to go through our armor like that."

The captain nodded as he looked toward Pex. "According to the data transferred with this
information the xenolithe exoskeleton is composed of a biocarbonate weave which includes
cobalt, a naturally occurring duranium composite and tritium. Their claws are composed of the
same material."

 "Captain, if we stay in dock longer, we could use the Illuminar's holodecks and any others here
to train. From what I've seen of the schematics, the Raptor has only three holodecks, two on
Deck 5 and one on Deck 17. With all the training we need to do, having access to more
holodecks for another few days would be useful."

"Acknowledged." The vulcan replied. "However our timetable is set by command and any delays
in launch will have to be approved. Due to the importance they are placing on the mission I
conclude that any attempts at a delay will be denied. The launch time may slide however if
realignment and final testing run beyond the time allocated for them. The ship will not launch
until the technical crew assigned for those duties have been removed."

He looked about. "Is there anything else?"

(Reply: Any)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0856)

Tegian had asked about departure time and the Captain had responded with a depressing
answer of, "Estimated time of departure is 0500 tomorrow."

Tegian nodded. "Then, I request permission to bring up the Illuminar's holodecks and make use
of them until tomorrow for Engineering. That will free up the Raptor's holodecks for other
departments. We can isolate the information about the Raptor to just data rods that we bring
over and return and that information will be the responsibilities of myself and the shift leaders.
We can use the Raptor's transporters to beam over and back."

(Reply Sekal)

Next, the Captain had answered the question about the claws. "Then I have an idea. I wish
Lieutenant Bohb was here, but I think we might be able to come up with a personal force field
for the BDU's keyed to the makeup of those claws. The only question will be how fast can it
come on and how long can it last."

Tegian looked over at Major Murphy and Lieutenant Temerity. "As long as we have the
information about the Xenolithe's in the computer, we can simulate something in the holodecks
with what we know about the BDU's capabilities and see if we can enhance them. I'd like you all
to survive an encounter with them."

Tegian's suggestion to stay longer at the dock didn't seem to meet with much encouragement,
but the Captain reminded him that the ship was equipped with holo emitters just about
everywhere. Something that had escaped Tegian's review of the specifications. But, that was
good news. It would take some creative usage of the drills, but not all of his department had to
train on the same thing at the same time. So, they could spread out into the nooks and crannies
of the ship and simulate failures all around to train on fixing them.

Tegian nodded. "I'd forgotten, thank you Captain. My department doesn't need much space for
most of our training. We only need it for the large systems where we'd expect multiple people to
work on it together. Everything else can be simulated elsewhere. Ensign Ssvresh, please look
at other options and reserve other locations, please."

(Reply Ssvresh)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CO, Captain Sekal - 0857)

Tegian had asked about departure time and the Captain had responded with a depressing
answer of, "Estimated time of departure is 0500 tomorrow."

Tegian nodded. "Then, I request permission to bring up the Illuminar's holodecks and make use
of them until tomorrow for Engineering. That will free up the Raptor's holodecks for other
departments. We can isolate the information about the Raptor to just data rods that we bring
over and return and that information will be the responsibilities of myself and the shift leaders.
We can use the Raptor's transporters to beam over and back."

(Reply Sekal)

Next, the Captain had answered the question about the claws. "Then I have an idea. I wish
Lieutenant Bohb was here, but I think we might be able to come up with a personal force field
for the BDU's keyed to the makeup of those claws. The only question will be how fast can it
come on and how long can it last."

Tegian looked over at Major Murphy and Lieutenant Temerity. "As long as we have the
information about the Xenolithe's in the computer, we can simulate something in the holodecks
with what we know about the BDU's capabilities and see if we can enhance them. I'd like you all
to survive an encounter with them."

Tegian's suggestion to stay longer at the dock didn't seem to meet with much encouragement,
but the Captain reminded him that the ship was equipped with holo emitters just about
everywhere. Something that had escaped Tegian's review of the specifications. But, that was
good news. It would take some creative usage of the drills, but not all of his department had to
train on the same thing at the same time. So, they could spread out into the nooks and crannies
of the ship and simulate failures all around to train on fixing them.

Tegian nodded. "I'd forgotten, thank you Captain. My department doesn't need much space for
most of our training. We only need it for the large systems where we'd expect multiple people to
work on it together. Everything else can be simulated elsewhere. Ensign Ssvresh, please look
at other options and reserve other locations, please."

(Reply Ssvresh)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Strategic Operations - Commodore Tahlmari - 0858)
Tahl had sat silently throughout the entire meeting. He found it interesting that he was the
“expert” in the Xenolithe, yet nobody had any questions for him. Which was fine. He’d gotten
used to sitting in the background. And Bob always kept him company.

“You should say something,” Bob insisted. Tahl ignored him. “Hey moron, they have no idea
what they’re getting themselves involved with. Say something.”

“All right,” Tahl said, under his breath. However, it did catch people’s attention and they all
turned to look at him. Tahl sat up in his chair and tried to look official. “Look, I just want
everyone here to understand the scope of what you’re looking at. All I hear is words of how
you’re going to deal with this, and what precautions you’re going to take. Drills to run.” He
looked at T’Mur. “No offense, Lt. Commander,” he looked at the major, “Major, but you have no
idea what you’re dealing with. This is an enemy like none other. There will be no to “settle” with
the Xenolithe. There will be no peaceful engagement if we engage with them.”

He stood up and began to walk around the table, “This is an advisory that will not quite… ever.
They attack, and attack, and when you think they’re done attacking they’ll attack again. There
not going to be there assimilate or conquer. They’re going to be there to eliminate. Period.”
He pulled up a video file and showed it. It was a file of three Xenolithes tearing through a group
of about 20 federation officers. The skirmish lasted less than thirty seconds, and he paused it
as the last man fell, with Xenolithe's claws coming out of his chest.

“I just want you to be aware,” he said. “They’re not unbeatable. But if you wind up in a fight
with them, you will have casualties. Bad ones. People will die. We barely beat them last time.
This time they’ll be ready for you.”

By the time he had circled the table, he realized that he was not carrying his cane. He reached
over and picked up his cane and then limped out of the meeting.

(reply none, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Counselor/Bondmate - Temas Laredo - 0900)

Temas listened to the rest of the reports then Captain Sekal laid out their mission. As
Commander Verin had informed him, they were going to investigate reports of the Xenolithe
being seen. He could feel the room’s mood change. Clearly this news was like hearing the
boogie man was coming. The Xenolithe were almost a fictional horror story to most of the
people here. And information regarding the species was highly classified… for a reason.

Then there had been the video files that had been shown. They were chilling, to say the least.
Frightening to say the best. The sight of the carnage they were capable of left the room
speechless. There was discussion about plans and drills.

Throughout the whole presentation their special guest had remained silent. But Temas could
sense the Zakdorn’s sense of frustration growing. But there was something else too. A sense of
duality about him. Something Temas just couldn’t put his finger on.

There was a moment of silence that Tahlmari clearly thought was the end of the discussion.
“Look, I just want everyone here to understand the scope of what you’re looking at,” Tahlmari
said. There was a desperation in his voice. “All I hear is words of how you’re going to deal with
this, and what precautions you’re going to take. Drills to run. No offense, Lt. Commander, Major,
but you have no idea what you’re dealing with. This is an enemy like none other. There will be
nothing to “settle” with the Xenolithe. There will be no peaceful engagement, if we engage with
them.”

He stood and began to walk, without the aid of his cane, “This is an adversary that will not quit…
ever. They attack, and attack, and when you think they’re done attacking they’ll attack again.
There not going to be there assimilate or conquer. They’re going to be there to eliminate.
Period.”

He made a concluding statement, then grabbed his cane and the limp suddenly returned as he
left. Temas looked over at Verin with a question. She motioned with her head for him to follow.
There was more to say and they need more input from his experience.

Temas slipped out of his seat and followed the Commodore into the corridor. Apparently he was
talking to himself.

“I did what I could, damn it. You were there. You heard. I couldn’t have been any clearer.
They’re not gonna get it until they’ve lost some people.” He paused and gave himself a wry
smile, “Yeah, yeah, they’re the hope generation.”

“Commodore?” Temas said as he closed the distance.

Tahl almost jumped at his approach, “Counselor, I didn’t hear you coming.”

Temas smiled, “I’m sure. Can I ask who you were talking to?”

Tahl have a small laugh, “You wouldn’t believe me.”

“You might be surprised at what I’d believe,” Temas replied as lightly.

“I was literally talking to myself,Counselor,” he admitted.

Temas could feel that duality again. He was being completely honest., and he gave the
Commodore a look that showed it.

Tahl nodded and sighed, “Let’s just say it would take a long time to explain,”

Temas nodded, “A conversation for later?”

“Absolutely,” Tahl sounded relieved that the Betazoid had backed off.

“Commodore, please come back to the meeting.” Temas urged. “I don’t believe the conversation
is over. We still need your input.”

Tahl sighed, “If you think it will do any good. If they’ll listen to the warnings.”

“I can’t promise that they’ll listen,” Temas said, “but at least they’ll get to hear them.”
“Very well Mr. Laredo,” Tahl said, “let’s go back inside.”

Temas followed Tahlmari back into the conference room. As they entered they could hear
Verin’s voice saying, “No idea is too stupid. Lay it out.”

“Words to live by,” Tahl said as he rejoined the table without explanation.

(Reply none)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CSec/Tac - Lt Commander T’Mur- 0901)

T’Mur nodded at Temas and Tahlmari as they both reentered the conference room together.
Neither had a word to say about their sudden departure. However, her mind was also on the
discussion at hand. She could sense Sienna’s confidence returning as she took control of the
meeting.

She had mentioned negating the utility of the Xenolithe claws, which was a great idea.
“To be honest, Commander,” the Vulcan interjected, “I believe Penn and Teller may have already
found he solution you seek. If you recall several months ago, the incident in their lab when they
had discharged a phaser without authorization to test a personal shield they had developed. It
could be used by both the marines and the security forces.”

(reply Verin)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Briefing Room - CEO - Lieutenant Jg Tegian Pex - 0902)

"Our expert appears to have left. We know what the claws and the exoskeleton are made of. We
have a lot of limited information, but we do have some. Our job is to find out more, as stealthily
as possible. Pex, Bohb, can you two get with Penn and Teller and see about rigging up some
defense against those claws. It sounds like we aren't going to be able to 'stand and tank' the
way that Federation troops are trained to do. I am well known not to be a fighter however, but
the scientist in me thinks that we can figure out a way to negate those claws. Short of issuing
swords to slice arms off, of course." She looked over to T'Mur. Sienna wanted to fight T's battle
with the Marines for respect, but that was hers to fight.

"Yes, ma'am. My thought is to train the computers on the BDU's to detect the makeup on the
claws and turn on a personal force field before it encounters the armor. As I said, the key will be
how fast and how long it can last."

"The other idea that is niggling in the back of my mind is, well." Sienna leaned slightly forward,
"We have a fairly well studied nanite that decimated us. Can we use that nanite technology
against the Xenolithe? Specifically, that nanite was targeting the carbon, correct? Can it be
reprogrammed, re-engineered to affect the duranium or tritium that the species uses so
extensively? Turn the armor and weapons brittle." She looked around the table, "The Illuminar is
a science and exploratory vessel. We have some of the brightest Federation minds. Let's
brainstorm people. No idea too stupid. Lay it out." Sienna was challenging her people to start
thinking and stop reacting. They could vanquish this foe...enough to survive at least.
"Commander, I studied the nanites on our return trip. I still don't know how Penn and Teller
knew how to shut them off. But, yes. We can theoretically reprogram them to go after anything.
They don't appear to need copper to reproduce, they were just programmed to do that." Tegian
looked over at Zara. "The only question is do we know enough about the nanites to control
them and make sure they don't harm us. And that the Xenolithe can't wrest control from us and
use them against us. Not to mention the ethical concerns about the nanites potentially affecting
their entire population."

Tegian left that thought hanging there. "Maybe it's as the Commodore has said. That they are
just going to eliminate us and it's a matter of our survival or theirs. But, if we unleash the
nanites, we'd best be sure they can't be turned back against us."

(Reply Any)
(Posted by Keith)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - CSRD - Lt Bohb - 0903)

Bohb had sat through the meeting silently. There had been little he had to add to the discussion
into now. He found the images of the Xenolithe to be disturbing. By nature, as we’re most
Magillan’s, Bohb was a pacifist. He abhorred violence but also knew that at times it was
necessary.

He had sailed through the required self defense training courses when he was younger. But his
size and natural strength made him a formidable opponent that few could overpower. Still, he’d
rather find a more civilized solution whenever possible. This did not look like one of those
opportunities.

“Pex, Bohb, can you two get with Penn and Teller and see about rigging up some defense
against those claws,” Verin said.

T’Mur spoke up before Bohb could, “To be honest, Commander, I believe Penn and Teller may
have already found the solution you seek. If you recall several months ago, the incident in their
lab when they had discharged a phaser without authorization to test a personal shield they had
developed. It could be used by both the marines and the security forces.”
Bohb chuckled, “Indeed, I was thinking the same thing. We can approach them about it.
Although the last time they had them I believe the captain confiscated the item.”

(reply Sekal)

Then Verin asked about using the nanite virus that they had just recently over came.

"Can we use that nanite technology against the Xenolithe?” she asked. “Specifically, that nanite
was targeting the carbon, correct? Can it be reprogrammed, re-engineered to affect the
duranium or tritium that the species uses so extensively? Turn the armor and weapons brittle.
The Illuminar is a science and exploratory vessel. We have some of the brightest Federation
minds. Let's brainstorm people. No idea too stupid. Lay it out.”

"That can work,” Trei added. “Can the nanites also eat places like skeletal joints and muscle
connections in the process?"
Bohb was apprehensive of the strategy, “Just a point of order Commander, the viral nanites that
we recently dealt with had actually target molecules of copper, which weakened our immune
systems. I’d have to talk to Penn and Teller about how they changed the behavior of them to
consume themselves at the right time. If we could change it I would still be concerned. Some of
the elements you’re mentioning are in the make up of the hull. This is not something we could
control once it was unleashed. The last thing we would want to do would be to infest the
Raptor. If we thought clean-up of the Illuminar was difficult… well, this ship would be harder.”

Then he looked at Trei, “However to have target a specific area would be unlikely. They would
eat everything they were designed to eat. However to specifically get them to eat specific
tissues we’d need the composition of the tissues and be sure they are different enough from our
own to avoid the aforementioned consequence of reinfection of us.”

(reply Trei, Sekal, any)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor -- Conference Room -- Deck 1 -- CMO/3XO Commander Quinna Solice -- 0904)

Quinna sat there like a bump on a log during the meeting. She had been avoiding any eye
contact and finding a focus to keep her emotions in check and the technique seems to be
working on her raw emotions. But her abilities to keep her in check did not impede on her
abilities to may attention.

When Quinna heard ‘nanites’, made her shift her eyes to members of the meeting.

"Can we use that nanite technology against the Xenolithe?” she asked. “Specifically, that nanite
was targeting the carbon, correct? Can it be reprogrammed, and re-engineered to affect the
duranium or tritium that the species uses so extensively? Turn the armor and weapons brittle.
The Illuminar is a science and exploratory vessel. We have some of the brightest Federation
minds. Let's brainstorm people. No idea too stupid. Lay it out.”

"That can work,” Trei added. “Can the nanites also eat places like skeletal joints and muscle
connections in the process?"

Quinna pulled out her PADD and started writing. She placed thoughts on them. But her
concerns came down to the fact that they just experienced nanites used as a bioweapon and
lives were lost.

Bohb spoke, “Just a point of order Commander, the viral nanites that we recently dealt with had
actually targeted molecules of copper, which weakened our immune systems. I’d have to talk to
Penn and Teller about how they changed the behavior of them to consume themselves at the
right time. If we could change it I would still be concerned. Some of the elements you’re
mentioning are in the make up of the hull. This is not something we could control once it was
unleashed. The last thing we would want to do would be to infest the Raptor. If we thought
clean-up of the Illuminar was difficult… well, this ship would be harder.”

Then he looked at Trei, “However to have target a specific area would be unlikely. They would
eat everything they were designed to eat. However to specifically get them to eat specific
tissues we’d need the composition of the tissues and be sure they are different enough from our
own to avoid the aforementioned consequence of reinfection of us.”
“I am sorry I have to weigh in here,” Quinna started, “I have grave concerns about this plan. I
know that much much research needs to happen for this to become a reality and there is a
chance that we may not even have to go to extreme measures. But we just got through our own
genocidal nanite issue and I am not sure that is the best recourse." A small pause, "Hear me
out. One. The nanites we encountered were not meant for us, and we still managed to contract
them but also lost some valuable members of our crew in the process. Two. If we are able to
get into alien technology and reprogram them, someone can get into ours. This could turn very
quickly. And three. What if we do not need the nanites? Then what? And what if they still get
released? If anything we learn here is that nothing ever goes according to plan. We are still
talking about bioengineering warfare. I know it may come down to them or us, but I think these
are legitimate concerns that should be answered when conducting this research.” Quinna said.
“In the end, we would have to check the moral compass.”

(Reply any)

"The flip side of the coin is that I do not have any other suggestions as an alternative," Quinna
admitted.

(Reply any)
(Posted by Kris B.)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor, Conference Room, ACSO Ensign jg Zara Khatri, 0905)

While the conference briefing continued, Zara sat quietly and unnoticed like the proverbial
church mouse. With so much being said, she felt she should say something as well. After all,
she was invited.

"I don't know if using the nanites will work." Her voice squeaked, so she had to clear her throat.
"But if we use them, who cares about being moral or ethical? If your guts were being ripped out
and you were in agony taking your last breath, are you going to be proud that you did the ethical
thing?"

All her life, Zara was never afraid to speak her mind.

"As far as close combat, why not just set our phasers on maximum level 16 and using
continuous fire, vaporize every Xenolithe in sight? Two hundred years ago we had weapons
that could burn a one-meter hole in three inches of steel in seconds. Phasers can vaporize
noranium at setting 11. I know this could be a dangerous mission and I'm a scientist not a
marine, but why is this such a huge issue?"

(reply any)
(posted by Mary Lou)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 1 - Conference Room - Strategic Operations - Commodore Tahlmari - 0906)

Suddenly Tahl was glad he had returned to the meeting. This was the exact arrogance he was
worried about. He started to chuckle and stood up.

“If it were that simply Ms….Khatri?... don’t you think we would have tried that the first time we
faced the Xenolithe. Their resistance to our energy weapons was not just in their armor. Their
very cells seemed to absorb our phaser fire. Granted, we have fourty years of technology
behind us that we didn’t have before, but rest assured that they have not been idle either. And
even if we could cause damage to one Xeno with one phaser, these beings attack in a swarm.

You won’t be facing one at a time. You’ll be facing several, all working in hive mindset.”
He began to pace behind his seat again. “The Xenolithe do use non-organic ships as well,
especially as fighters. Watching a Xenolithe fighter attack it’s like… have you ever seen a nest
of angry hornets? That’s how they attack. All over.” He began to swat at imaginary hornets
flying around his head.

(reply any)
(posted by Al Muir)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 5 - Counselor's Office - CO, Captain Sekal and Counselor Temas Laredo -
1115)

The meeting had run longer than expected and there had been unforeseen business that had
arisen requiring his attention which caused one of those very rare occurrences of tardiness on
his part. Temas Laredo however was not currently busy as he was aware. One of the perks of
being a CO was having access to the schedule of everyone on his ship.

 The door opened obligingly for the captain and he stepped inside. "Counselor Laredo I ask your
forgiveness for being late, unexpected duties cropped up."

Temas stood up behind his desk. He was genuinely glad to see the captain. He had to admit
that he was starting to feel he’d been forgotten, again.

“Captain Sekal,” he said, “that’s quite all right. As the ship's commander I am certain that many
unexpected things can happen to take your attention. I am glad you could make it. Please
come in.”

He stepped further into the room and walked to the desk then took up his habitual, open stance
as he waited. Termas sat down and indicated to the chair across from him.

“Please, sit down,” Temas said. “I would like you to be comfortable while you are here.”

Sekal looked at a chair, shrugged, went to it and sat down stiffly as he waited for the Counselor
to begin.

Temas had to admit that this was the one interview that… intimidated him. Sekal was probably
the one person on the ship that Riven Mias had confided with about him. And he was a very
imposing figure. Still, the Vulcan had been nothing but welcoming. It was interesting watching
him try to get comfortable.

“So Captain,” he began, “you and the crew have had quite an eventful few months. How would
you describe how the crew has handled the stress?”

The Vulcan's eyes briefly widened and he sat back as he considered the question. "The crew
was stretched near to the breaking point due to the loss of the Rhyne and the struggle with the
Maelstrom. Even after retrieving the officers and crew aboard her there have been … stresses
within some such as Commander Gregory who removed himself. Among the remainder of the
crew, due to frequent shore leaves most but not all appear to have recovered."
Temas nodded, “Yes, apparently. How about yourself? I noticed that your shore leave has not
been as, shall we say, utilized. How have you been able to recuperate?”

Sekal cocked his head slightly. "Your question has two variations, counselor Laredo, one about
my shore leave habits and the other about my recuperation. Though the two are parallel in my
case they are not proportional therefore I will answer both. I routinely take very little shore leave
as is common with vulcans in the fleet, we do not require it. Other species depend on rest,
relaxation and play to de-stress, we do not. As for my recuperation, it has been advanced by
meditation, discipline and focus. I can assure you that its effects have been dealt with."

Temas sat forward, intrigued, “Really? Meditation? I would love to learn more about this
discipline. Is it something that I could learn?”

"Indeed. Meditation is not limited to vulcans and discipline is taught to us through kolinahr. Due
to its purpose of purging emotion through discipline you are likely not to enjoy it."

Temas chuckled, “Most likely. I do rather enjoy my emotions. But I am not new to discipline and
mental control. Still, it might be intriguing to try.”

"As I have been told. Your battle for control was difficult but successful which makes your mental
control noteworthy."

Temas nodded in acknowledgment, then refocused, “I’d like to discuss Commander Gregory for
a moment, since you mentioned him. For lack of a better way of asking, what do you think about
what happened with him? I was going to ask how you feel about it, but I know that is not a
logical question. But what do you think about it?”

"Thank you counselor." Sekal leaned forward, Temas had caught his interest. "You are no doubt
aware that the reason my initial psych evaluation on Mars was not completed was due to the
Counselor continually asking that very question, to the point of being insulting."

Temas was very aware of that report. He thought that the counselor in that evaluation did a…
poor job of reading the room.

He leaned back again. "As for commander Gregory, I believe that his departure from the ship
was a loss to the fleet. I found him to be a brilliant officer and his contributions will be missed.
Vulcans took the route of eliminating emotions due to their destructive nature and in the end it
was his negative emotions that resulted in that departure."

“Indeed,” Temas replied, “the loss of Doctor Vanderstein hit him hard. Apparently his feelings for
her were greater than anyone had imagined. I can’t help but wonder if I had a chance to discuss
it with him earlier, things might have been different. I’m sure the crew will adjust to the new
command structure quickly.”

He paused and took a breath, “I’d like to ask a difficult question.”

“How do you think the rest of the command staff will react to making Lt. Commander T’Mur
second officer over Commander Solice? After all, the doctor out ranks her and has command
experience as a third officer.”
Sekal quirked an eyebrow at him. "Lieutenant Commander T'Mur is respected by the crew and
highly adaptable as well as intelligent or I would not have elevated her to the position. Doctor
Solice requires time to heal from a traumatic experience and has been placed on reduced
workload because of it. I foresee no issues from it. The crew of the Illuminar are well aware of
the situation and I anticipate the new crew members will see the logic of it over time."

Temas smiled, “Of that I am sure. Lt Commander T’Mur is a special officer. She sees patterns
others don’t. Including patterns of behaviors. She’s quite intriguing.”

Sekal nodded but said nothing, his point had been made.

“I know the policy of ship relationships, but I was wondering what your thoughts are about the
relationship between Lt Commander T’Mur and Commander Verin. Do you believe that their
relationship could interfere with certain command decisions?”

"Negative. Commander Verin has shown an ability to divorce herself from individual
entanglements to perform her duty and while her mate is devoted to her she is capable of
performing her duties with excellence as well. Commander Verin had no part in my choice of
succession nor am I harbor any doubt as to their ability to perform their roles on the ship."

“Even after her recent and recurring health issue?” Temas knew he was treading on dangerous
ground here. He had no doubts about either Sienna nor T’Mur, but at this point he needed to be
sure that the captain had no doubts.

Sekal shook his head briefly. "There was some initial concern about commander Verin due to
her fragile health but those have been alleviated as she has gotten stronger and is reasserting
herself. Let it also be known that I have been adamant on the initial pacing of her recovery to
ensure that she would have the opportunity to return to full form. I have no doubts as to her
current state of health which will continue to improve as she puts on weight and avails herself of
my conditioning program."

“And this is your opinion?” Temas asked.

"It is my scientific opinion which is backed up by reports from the medical department." He
shrugged off the question.

“And your own mental clarity is not in question?” he poked, knowing he was poking a sleeping
Sehlat.

"Negative. My mental acuity and focus is at optimum."

Temas stood up and came around his desk, holding a PADD. This was the hardest thing he was
about to do. “Do you recall an incident on the bridge, Captain, when we were facing the
Maelstrom?”

He activated the PADD and a video began to play. In the video Sekal had been with his yeoman.
An attractive young woman. It was clear what was happening between the two of them. And it
was not an appropriate action for the CO, on the bridge, with the most junior officers.

"Affirmative." His voice was unemotional as always. "I recall it vividly. I approached yeoman
Whitney while on the bridge in order to assist her and gripped her left wrist. After I had pulled
her to her feet she screamed at some phantasm caused by the maelstrom. It was at that point
that I realized how beautiful she was and that I could make her my own by asserting my mental
will. The contact lasted approximately eight point three seconds. During that time my grip had
tightened and she asked to be released because I was hurting her."

He leaned back and looked away for an instant then his eyes returned to Temas' face. "It was at
that moment that I realized that I was teetering on the brink of a full collapse of logic and that
emotion, long dormant and tied to the savage inheritance of my race, was attempting to exert
control. I released her and stepped away as I began the process of re-exerting discipline."

“So I’m going to ask this question,” Temas warned. “How do you feel about that now?”

Sekal gave a slight movement of his head. "A logical question under the circumstances as
framing it in another manner would be extraordinarily difficult." He leaned forward again. "I
acknowledge the circumstance and the result of my actions which may still be due. Doctor
Solice, quite logically made a point to question my condition at the time with the warning of the
possibility of removing me from command if I was unable to maintain control. And weeks
afterward yeoman Whitney approached me in my quarters."

“And what was the result of that interaction?” Temas asked.

He wasn't going to provide every detail as that was unnecessary and could be a source of
embarrassment for the yeoman. "She believed that I … wanted her. It is undeniable that for that
period of time it was true. She approached me with the intent of consummating a relationship. I
turned her away of course. Aside from my duty to avoid romantic entanglements on the ship I
am also betrothed. And I have no emotion to share with her."

Temas nodded, “But you have guilt?”

Sekal's eyes narrowed at the question. "Negative but I do understand that because of my loss of
control I have opened myself up to possible future ramifications and I will deal with those as
they arise."

“Forgive me Captain, but I don’t believe you,” Temas said. “You are telling me that your only
concern is for yourself. You initiated an intimate contact with Yeoman Whitney, then rebuffed
her, and you have no concern for her emotional or mental state? I don’t believe you are that
callous.”

He paused for a moment and put the PADD on his desk then stood in front of the CO of the
Illuminar. “I only bring this up to remind you that as much as we wish it, nobody is infallible,
especially in their own eyes. And to remind you that help is there, for the asking.”

"Should I require your assistance counselor you may rest assured that I will seek it. As for those
things which have not been said." Sekal's gaze was unblinking. "I iterated to you the facts, what
may or may not have been considered concerning her actions or my future outside of those
facts is not germane to the discussion nor are they necessary for the drawing of a conclusion.
They are concrete and unassailable. Even as a being of logic I understand that certain actions
are necessary in carrying out one's duties, even to the point of withholding information that may
be damaging or appear to be damaging to another and I would prosecute any who step over
that line without conscience or remorse as you might go so far as to say. I am not infallible as
the incident on the bridge shows nor am I so prideful as to believe so. Pride, after all, is
considered a negative emotion."

Temas smiled to himself, but couldn’t help but chuckle a little. He sat on the edge of his desk
and said, “Indeed it is. And I would not be so bold as to contradict you. Sometimes it’s nice to be
reminded that, in the end, you are only Vulcan.”

"Thank you for the compliment counselor."

“You are quite welcome, Captain,” he replied. “Do you have any questions for me?”

Sekal rose from the chair. "Negative, only a warning. If we do encounter the Xenolithe and are
forced to fight you will have a rigorous duty before you. Counselor Hammons is on this crew
because she has learned from the best as have you and I suggest you make plans in case the
need arises in order to share the duty otherwise it might become overwhelming."

Temas nodded, “I appreciate the warning. I will avail myself to others to prepare as best I can.”

Sekal nodded in agreement. "Very well Counselor, I assume this evaluation has concluded?"

“It is, sir. Thank you for your time and openness.”

Sekal turned then stopped and spoke over his shoulder. "I demand honesty and loyalty from my
crew and it is little enough to ask that I return it in kind."

He then moved to the door.

(Reply: Any, none)
(Posted by Charles and Al)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 17 Marine Country - Major Audie Murphy - 1200)

With a final "Yes, Sir," the screen went blank and Murphy sighed. He didn't think that he would
get extra help. Or that there was some secret weapon developed that would help in this case.
These Xenolithe and their armor were going to be a problem. He mused that a photon
grenade set to high yield might have an effect. Better make sure the men were practicing using
them, and see if there were any MGL-140's on board. If not, he hoped Poole could get some on
the quick. Maybe even some tricobalt devices.

"Sargent Major, have the Marines assemble at 1230," the Major called over his intercom. He'd
address them then, let them know what they were up against. But first, "?Poole, report," he
called.

The supply lieutenant came running onto the Major's office. "I have a mission for you," he said
as the door closed.

(USS Raptor - Deck 17 Marine Country - Major Audie Murphy - 1230)

Murphy walked slowly down the ranks. Looking at the marines in their work uniforms.
Everything he read said that casulty counts were going to be high. Only way around that was
preparation. And weapons. The later Poole was working on.
"General Pershing said 'The deadliest weapon in the world is a Marine and his rifle.' That was
true then, and it's true now," he said. "So much so that the Federation had to go find something
tough enough to challenge us. Not the Klingons, not the Jem'Hadar. They are children
compared to what we're going after. A race of creatures from your nightmares, tall, ugly wearing
armor and claws. They like to rend their victims limb from limb. A race called the Xenolithe."

"Now, we'll get you pictures of them soon enough. We'll tell you what we know. We'll get the
simulations up and running. But at the end of the day it is you Marines - your cunning, your
courage, your motivation that is going to win the day. We will train hard. We will train
often. We will find a way to overcome this foe, just like every other enemy that has stood in
front of the Marines."

He paused, "I need you all to speak up during training. After each simulation we will run a
detailed After Action Review. We will debrief till we extract every iota of information we can and
we will use that information in the next drills."

"Go clean up your gear and get some chow. We start in an hour."

He looked around at the Marines, when Sargent Major Skipper called out "Oorah!"

The Marines battle cry echoed through the room.

~God help us all~ the Major thought.

(Reply Marines)
(Posted by Tim)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Personal Quarter - Deck - SFI Lt. Michael Weston, and CMO/3XO Commander
Quinna Solice - 1600)

Getting over her loss was not happening to everyone’s time schedule. She needed to get back
to work but couldn’t. Quinna sat in her quarters on the Raptor. She choose a smaller quarter
than what she had on the Illuminar. The change did her good. She didn't want to get too
comfortable.

She made a check of things she needed to do. She needed to meet with the counseling team,
but after their meeting with Temas, Quinna was not wanting to do it. She was not sure if one of
the key counselors would attend. Her mind went to Michael. She decided to go check on him.
Quinna tossed the PADD, she was working on, on the couch as she read the same sentence 5
times.

Quinna sought out Michael.

(USS Raptor - Deck 19 -Tactical Offices - SFI Office (Cartagena) - CMO/3XO Commander
Quinna Solice and Lt. Michael Weston - 1610)

Michael sat at his desk staring at the screen in front of him. He’d been staring at it for the last
hour and still hadn’t absorbed any of the information on it. Getting the information hadn’t been
easy. Nobody was really willing to allow Michael to call in any favors owed. So he’d had to result
to old-fashioned skullduggery.
It took some time and a few firewalls to get around but he finally found a database that held
references to the Xenolithe, and his new friend Commodore Tahlmari. But none of that
information had managed to find a way into his brain. He’d start to read and something would
remind him of Leeza, or turn his thoughts to Iris.

He had replicated a rubber ball earlier in the day and suddenly threw it at the wall.

“Damn it, get focused,” he chided himself.

He was finally getting motivated to work when he heard the door to his office open. Quinna
stepped in. Michael smiled and stood up, coming around the desk.

“Quinna, what a surprise,” he exclaimed. “Welcome to Cartagena.”

“Hey, Handsome.” Quinna said, “How’s the office?” Quinna moved closer to Michael and gave
him a kiss. There was still a bit of a red mark where Alaya decked him. “Do you have a med
kit? I can fix that cheek up for you.”

Michael shook his head, “Just leave it. It’ll heal.” He turned away from her for a moment. He
had allowed Alaya to take out her anger and frustration on him. He was surprised, in a way, that
the counselor would be so quick to judge and not consider the pain of others. However, it wasn’t
as if he didn’t feel he deserved it. So he hung on to the bruise.

“I don’t know about you but I am having a hard time concentrating,” Quinna confessed.

Michael laughed, “I was just thinking the same thing. I keep thinking that immersing myself in my
work will at least take my mind off… things. But it just seems to make things worse.”

He turned his full gaze on Quinna and suddenly pulled her in close, smelling her hair and
pressing his cheek against hers.

“I can’t help it,” he said, struggling for a moment. “I miss her. Both of them.” His hand moved
down to Quinna’s tummy.

“I know you do.” Quinna put a hand on his. “I miss her too. It feels different, empty, but right
now, the best we can do is…” Quinna wondered what was the best they could do. There was
no child to fawn over. No time to grieve. “... I don’t know what to do.”

“Keep moving forward?” he suggested.

“I know you lost more than any of us, not to mention, you are taking the brunt of it all. She was
out of line.” Quinna said.

Michael shrugged, “She’s hurting too. A different kind of hurt, but hurt nonetheless. She needed
to let it out. And I’ve been an easy target since I arrived on this ship, so I can’t say I’m not used
to it. You,” he kissed Quinna on the cheek, “have been my one safe haven. Then Dieter got on
board. And then I had Leeza, with her own… special brand of love.”

He chuckled at the thought of the two of them torturing each other. Then he got serious. “I
suppose I was getting used to being a solid citizen, and an officer.”
“Well, you deserve respect. From everyone.” Quinna said, “You have more than proven your
worth to the crew.” Quinna said and then moved to sit down. “I know your pain kept you from
speaking up.”

“I’ll be fine,” Michael said, finally looking into Quinna’s eyes. “But thanks for always looking out
for me.”

“Michael Weston, you are an amazing man,” Quinna said. “It is a shame that no one wants to
see it.” Quinna turned in the chair and looked at his desk. She saw how he made things belong
to him. She picked up the holo-image sitting on his desk. “A risk worth taking?”

He came up behind Quinna and wrapped his arms around her, “Always.” He thought for a
moment, ”Some people are worth taking a risk on.”

Quinna put her hands on his, “With all we have been through, it is hard to believe we have only
known each other for 4 months. Feels like forever.” Quinna wiped some tears that tend to fall
at random. “I need help. I have been doing some thinking.”

“Uh oh,” Michael quipped, “this could be dangerous.”

 “And…,” she continued, elbowing Michael’s midsection, “I think I need to reconsider ‘light duty’.
I’m thinking that I need to take the third shift on the bridge and the first shift handling the
administration of sickbay.”

Michael smiled and hugged Quinna, “I think that’s a terrific idea. It sure beats sulking around
your quarters.”

Quinna gave Michael a puzzling look. What they went through was not the type of thing that
you get up the next day and act like it never happened. “And to add insult to injury,” she
continued, “since this happened, Captain Sekal promoted T’Mur over me, stating that it is only
for this mission. Then think some more, I remember that Alaya said something to the effect. It
was your responsibility because of a list of reasons, but one of those was because I was
pregnant. Everyone but you has lost their faith in my abilities.” Quinna said. Of course, she
also thought that no one had bothered to come to check on them was another cue but she did
not say that. “Do you think I am pushing it? At first, I thought I was being paranoid, but now…”

Michael knew that her presumption that nobody came to see her was not exactly accurate, but it
was her perception and he wasn’t going to tackle that yet. Most people checked on her but
didn’t want to interrupt her recuperation. However, she felt the loss, especially of Verin and
T’Mur. T’Mur had had her own issues recovering from the nano-virus.

“Pushing it? Absolutely not,” Michael said, adding his favorite quote, “Being paranoid?” He
raised his hand and waved it side to side. “I won’t even pretend to get in Sekal’s head, but if
there is one thing I know about him, he is always looking out for your interest, and the ships.
That being said,” he threw in one of his favorite quotes, “ just because you're paranoid… “

“Doesn’t mean it is not true.”

“I think the more you integrate yourself back into the ship the faster your recovery will be. And
we’ll both not be hiding out in fear.”
Quinna sat up a bit, “Hiding in fear? I never thought I was hiding in fear. There is nothing to be
afraid of.” Quinna looked into Michael's eyes, “Why do you think I am afraid?”

“It’s not what I think, and perhaps I’m speaking more for myself,” Michael admitted. “But I’m
pretty sure Steven might expect me to give him a wide berth. And it appeared he thought I
should be afraid. I’m not giving him that satisfaction. Perhaps not hiding in fear, but still hiding.
I want everyone to see that we’re still here, and they can rely on us.”

“The only person I want, need, and can rely on now is you,” Quinna said and she meant it.
“And that is never a bad thing.”

He turned Quinna around and pulled her into a hug, “Never a bad thing.”

“So what are you trying to work on in here?” Quinna asked trying the whole ‘get into your work’
routine.

Michael moved around his desk and sat down. He turned the monitor so Quinna could see it.
“Well, our special guest turned me onto the ships that the Xenolithe use. I thought I could help
out with some intel on them. Like everything else about the Xenos, is highly restricted,
especially for me.”

He stuck his tongue out at the monitor. “Fortunately I have skills that … bypass the normal
channels… and most of the special channels.” He winked at Quinna, knowing if he were caught
with this information he could be arrested… or worse.

“So this is everything I could pull off the database about the Nageri. I’m sure it’s fascinating if I
could focus enough to read it.”

“So read it to me,” Quinna suggested. “My Inquiring mind wants to know. And I promise not to
let people know where I got this information. We can seal the deal with a kiss if it will help.”

Michael sighed and smiled. He was pretty sure she’d get the information eventually so it may as
well be now.

“Deal,” he said, and sealed the deal.

(Reply None)
(Posted by Al. M and Kris B.)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Iluminar - Deck 10 - 10 Forward Lounge - Strategic Operations - Commodore Tahlmari
and Lt. Ariel Trei - 1700)

Tahl sat back in his seat staring at the drink on the table in front of him. He really didn’t even
remember what he had ordered. It was something… blue and frothy. He was trying to figure out
what the likely mortality rate was going to be if and when they encountered the Xenos. Tahl
wasn’t convinced that these people were mentally prepared.

The server came by and put a plate of food on the table beside his drink. He looked at the food
wondering what he’d ordered.
“You’re cheeseburger and salad, sir,” the server reminded him. ~Salad? Thanks, Alex.~

“Thanks,” Tahl said with a smile. He picked up the burger and took a bite.

Ariel walked into Ten Forward and found Tahl sitting at a table by the viewport. She saw that he
had a cheeseburger and fries along with a blue frothy drink she usually doesn't order. She took
a seat and ordered a cheeseburger with dill pickles and fries. For the drink, she ordered an iced
tea with lemon and sugar. She didn't want to do the long island iced tea just yet. Maybe the
second drink she can do that even though she can handle it.

The cheeseburger came and she thanked the server. The iced tea was refreshing when she
took a drink of it. She wasn't that great at small talk so she went right in.

"I understand you have a possible solution to the Xenolithe problem. I have some ideas too.
Tell me what you have and we can work together to figure it out."

Tahl looked at the woman that approached him with extreme curiosity. Over the years he’d
gotten used to people he barely knew, or didn’t know at all, coming up to him. His role in the
Xenolithe invasion was not public knowledge, but his role in Strategic Ops during the civil war
was. Plus the fact that Zakdorns did not have the reputation for being riveting
conversationalists. But he was not a typical Zakdorn.

“Ms. …. ?”

“Trei, you moron, Trei,” Bob chastised him. “She’s cute. Don’t blow this.”

Tahl frowned at his imaginary friend but managed to not say anything. Bob was the last thing he
wanted to explain right now.

“... Trei,” he continued. “I’m sorry, but I’m not sure, exactly, what you’re talking about. How
would you know that I have a possible solution to the,” his voice dropped a level, “problem.”
Then he resumed a normal conversational tone. “If id had, don’t you think I would have brought
it up this morning?”

She had ways of knowing but left it to be disclosed later. She was the Security profiler agent
after all. She decided to offer her ideas for the problem instead to deflect the question.

"Ariel Is fine. I have a tactic or two that we can work on. I would like your thoughts on how to
implement them. One is to use nitrous oxide to affect the Xenolithe. A high concentration of the
gas should have a similar effect as on humans. Your thoughts please."

Tahl sat back and laughed, “Well, that is an interesting idea. The problem is that, to the best of
our knowledge, the Xenolithe do not breathe the way that we do. From what little we know of
their anatomy they do not have mouths or noses. They have organs in which they absorb what
they need through. Secondly, we have no idea about their body chemistry, or how such an
anesthetic would affect them. I’d be more concerned that it would affect the crew more than any
of the Xenolithe. What else do you have, Ariel?”

When her nitrous oxide idea was shot down, she had to go to the backup idea using nitrogen in
a different way. Her idea was to have liquid nitrogen freeze the Xenolithe in some way. The
trick would be to freeze them and not freeze us.
"Is it possible to use liquid nitrogen to freeze the Xenolithe and their ships without freezing us?
A good way to do that is to use special ampules to explode when we want them to be filled with
liquid nitrogen."

Tahl looked at the young woman with curious interest and leaned forward. “You’re an interesting
girl, aren’t you Ariel? I didn’t really get a chance to look into the entire crew before coming on
board.”

“Liar,” Bob whispered in his ear. Tahl knew who everyone on board was and what their job was.

“Tell me about your background in science,” he said. “I’m intrigued by the notion that you can
affect a starship with liquid nitrogen when duranium can withstand the harshness of space. As I
understand it, you are the ship's Intelligence profiler? Whatever that is.”

She considered the questions and thought about her response. The nature of her position
made it difficult to discuss what she is. A lot of what she does is classified and only the high
command has a need to know status but she had to give him an answer.

"I really don't have any experience in science. My first position out of the Academy was
Counseling. If you read my bio, I am Half Betazoid and Half Klingon. My father is the
well-decorated Detron Trei. What I tell you now must be held confidential. I review the security
cameras all over the ship and I profile all the members of the ship. We need to leave it as that
until we get to a secured location to tell you more. I thought an old-school approach was the
best option. Liquid nitrogen acts very quickly with devastating results. The Xenolithe will not
have the time to react."

“And you know this because…?” Tahl asked. “Look, Ariel, liquid nitrogen has never been proven
to be an effective military weapon. You couldn’t project it very far or drop it from very high up
before it evaporated. It isn’t very useful as a smoke screen because it would evaporate too
quickly to do much good. You could seal some in an unvented, non-thermal container and it
would rupture the container, but once the container burst the rest would just spill and evaporate;
it would not release much destructive shrapnel. Overall, the logistics headaches involved in
transporting the stuff would outweigh any tactical advantages. Let’s put that up against the fact
that we have absolutely no idea how it will even affect the Xenolithe. It’s barely an effective
weapon against humans.”

So two of her ideas were shot down and she was getting frustrated. That is why she chose
counseling in the Academy so she can use her empathy in helping patients. She heard all of
the stories her father told her of his adventures and wanted to get in some action herself but
would ease into that on her time. Now that she is seeing combat more often, she appreciates
the resolve and judgment he had in those situations. She had one more idea to run by Tahl that
had to do with acid. She was hesitant to get shot down again but had nothing to lose.

"Is it possible to contain highly corrosive acid and explode it where we want it to.."

Now Tahl was intrigued. “Did you have a particular acid in mind?”

"You are the scientist,” Trei said, “you tell me, but something powerful like hydrochloric acid."
Tahl thought about it for a moment then sat back. “I’m no scientist,” he admitted, “I’ve just had a
lot of experience, especially with weapons and military strategy. Of the three ideas you’ve
mentioned I think that one has the most potential. My recommendation… go and visit the
science department. If you don’t have the first-hand knowledge, seek out those that do. Ask
them if they know of an agent that can eat through duranium and dissipate before it eats
through the ship.”

"Ok,” Trei nodded. “In your opinion, how would you implement the acid idea?"

“Me?!” Tahl questioned. “You are outside my area of expertise. And if I’m honest with you Ms.
Trei, you’re outside your own area of expertise. It’s commendable that you want to come up with
new ideas. The problem with new ideas is that they meet with the resistance of practicality.
Especially in the area of Strategic Operations and tactics. How would I implement an acid
bomb? I’m not sure I would because I’m not sure how it would work. Your best bet is to head to
the science department. They all like to chase dreams.”

"Ok. Who would be the most receptive to the idea?"

Tahl shrugged, “You know these people way better than I do. I’ve only met Dr. Gralen, but I hear
tell that the team of Dr. Penn and Dr. Teller is amazing. Your guess is as good as mine. But
again, you’re the profiler.”

She was reluctant to talk with Penn and Teller because she can't understand them. She needed
to meet new people on the ship so Dr. Gralen was the better choice.

"Ok. I will talk with Dr. Gralen and work with him on the idea. I presume he is on alpha shift."
Tahl leaned forward and put his hand on hers in an older man-to-younger woman gesture, and
said, “Sweetie, for a profiler you seem very uninformed about the crew of this ship, and then
expect me, a veritable stranger here, to know such things.”

He sat back and said, “Let me give you a simple lesson on how to locate people. It’s not really a
Strat Ops secret but it’s always worked for me.” He tapped his comm badge. “Commodore
Tahlmari to Dr. Gralen, what is your current location?”

=^= Hello Commodore. I'm in my office. How may I help you? =^=

Tahl smiled at Ariel, “I have this lovely young lady with me right now who was uncertain how to
find you. I was demonstrating one of the many uses of the comm system. I will send Lt. Trei
your way.”

He looked at Ariel, his eyes twinkling, “There you go, my dear. As much as I enjoy being seen
with an attractive young woman, I believe what your looking for is on the science deck.”

"Ok. Thank you." She responded. She usually asked the computer to find people using their
comm badges. The computer usually leads the way to who she is looking for but she
appreciated Tahl doing the direct route. She blushed a bit when being called an attractive
young lady. She took a last drink of her iced tea and waved at Tahl as she left Ten Forward.
Her objective now is to form a plan to fight the Xenolithe. She hoped that she can find one in
the science deck.
Tahl waved with a smile and looked at Trei’s plate of barely touched food. Slowly he reached
over and plucked a french fry from it and put it in his mouth, savoring the flavor. His wife had,
long ago, tried to program him to accept that eating a salad was more rewarding to his body
than the fries were. He had to admit, on this matter, she was dead wrong.

(reply none)
(posted by Al Muir and Edward Engle)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Iluminar Science Deck - SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1735)

She entered the science deck looking for Dr. Gralen's office. She had some ideas to work out
with him. She found his office and pressed the door chime.

"SPA LT Ariel Trei here to speak with you about the xenothe."

(Reply Gralen)
(Posted by Edward)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen- 1745)

The door chimed and he sighed, there was going to be a lot of work to do and data to catch up
on. He could already feel it.

"Come in."

The newcomer didn't waste any time as she walked through the door, she appeared to be a
klingon hybrid due to her lighter complexion and softened species characteristics.

"SPA LT Ariel Trei here to speak with you about the xenothe."

"Come in Lieutenant and have a seat. What is an SPA by the way? I don't believe I've heard of it
before." Holis gestured for her to pull up a chair. Maybe she was bringing him some information
he could pass on to xenobiology, that would certainly come in handy, at present they had
precious little on that particular race. Records from the xenolithe war which predated his arrival
in the fleet were sparse, to put it mildly.

(Reply: Trei)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1747)

Dr. Gralen motioned her to take a seat. She pulled the chair up to his desk. She could tell he
was looking at her determining what kind of species she was. She told him right away.

"SPA stands for Security Profiler Agent. I am half Betazoid/Half Klingon. I am here to discuss
ways to deal with the xenolithe. One involves acid the other involves poison. Help me make a
plan to implement either as effective as possible."

She liked to be direct. Once a topic is established then the discussion can be more general..
She waited for Him to give her something to build on.
(Reply Gralen)
(Posted by Edward)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 1749)

"SPA stands for Security Profiler Agent. I am half Betazoid/Half Klingon. I am here to discuss
ways to deal with the xenolithe. One involves acid the other involves poison. Help me make a
plan to implement either as effective as possible."

"Security profiler and analyst, interesting." Holis adjusted his spectacles. "Acid or poison? Hmm.
I see where you are going with this, you are trying to come up with inventive weapons to use
against our prospective adversaries. So let's break down the pros and cons first shall we?

Acid is almost nothing but cons. Think about it, from the little we know about the xenolithe, their
carapace includes heavy metals and is extremely dense, for acid of any type to eat through it
would take a lot of time, most likely hours and would be dangerous to anyone they touched. The
corrosive effects from a brush with them would burn skin on contact and be hazardous to
equipment. The best you could hope for would be a splash to the eyes that would blind them
quickly and render them ineffective in a battle. As for poison..."

He scratched his chin. "An organic poison would be an option if we had access to a biological
workup on them which we don't. A toxin could be tailored to work quickly on their nervous
system and put them down.... in theory. The toxin once administered internally would have no
effect on any of the crew but in aerosol form could have cross contamination and possible
deadly consequences. Until we have a specimen to study there is no way to synthesize a toxin
guaranteed to effect them, anything we came up with would be shooting in the dark."

(Reply: Trei)

Holis chuckled. "Liquid nitrogen is almost guaranteed to affect any biological organism and
should be able to freeze them solid very quickly. The issue with liquid nitrogen is that you can't
target it finely enough to effect only the xenolithe if they are in contact with other beings. You
would have to flood a room or corridor with it. Now it could be contained by force fields along
with the creatures and make icicles out of them most likely but any personnel exposed to it
would be similarly affected unless they were wearing protective gear such as an eva suit."

(Reply: Trei)

Holis nodded. "You have a couple of good ideas. The nitrogen would be situational and the toxin
dependent on a thorough examination of a cadaver. Both require thorough planning and
situational awareness. I'm afraid dipping them into a vat of highly corrosive acid however isn't
workable."

(Reply: Trei)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1750)

She considered what Dr. Gralen had to say and understood his assessment. She had one
more shot to take relating to the toxin theory.
"It is my understanding that the xenolithe are some kind of insect. Is it possible to create a toxin
deadly to insects but mild to us"

She thought of an old Television program called V for visitors where they used a toxin deadly to
reptiles which the alien visitors were essentially and defeated the visitors pretty effectively.

(Reply Gralen)
(Posted by Edward)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 1753)

"It is my understanding that the xenolithe are some kind of insect. Is it possible to create a toxin
deadly to insects but mild to us"

Holis took a second to call up the briefing logs and projected a view of one of the aliens above
the desk then began rotating it slowly as he peered at it.

"The xenolithe do have some external resemblance to insects though that may only be skin
deep as far as we know at this point. As for possible toxins, there are a wide variety that have
been adapted for use against these types of life forms and are generally considered mild in their
impact to others including sentient life. The ones we use today are a far cry from the
organophosphates, carbonates and other types in use a few hundred years ago on Earth which
were highly toxic and crossed over with horrendous effects."

The fingers of his right hand rapped lightly on the desktop in time to some internal tune. "So an
answer to your question might be yes but that is highly qualified. IF they have a biochemistry
similar to categorized insect species then a highly concentrated form due to their large size
could be adapted. IF their internal composition is comparable. IF not then they would be
ineffective and we would have to start from scratch after doing a biological workup."

He dismissed the display then tipped his hand in a helpless gesture. "I'm sorry I can't be more
specific at this point, we know very little about them. When hearing of your speciality I was
hoping you had some in depth analysis I could use. Be assured though that when we know
more we can revisit the subject and work up a battle plan to use against them going forward."

(Reply: Trei)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office SPA LT Ariel Trei - 1754)

She considered his question. If the xenolithe are insects, then they will follow insect behavior.
She thought of a response to that.

"If the xenolithe are insects, they will have insect behavior. Insects tend to attack as one so we
can formulate a plan to draw them into a trap. Is it possible to create an illusion to trap them in
a situation we control. Say we create a gravity well for the xenolithe to get stuck in then we hit
them with what we can to defeat them. Mind you we will be far enough away until the xenolithe
are trapped."


(Reply Gralen)
(Posted by Edward)
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(USS Raptor - Deck 6 - CSO's Office - CSO, Lieutenant Commander Holis Gralen - 17.56)

"If the xenolithe are insects, they will have insect behavior. Insects tend to attack as one so we
can formulate a plan to draw them into a trap. Is it possible to create an illusion to trap them in
a situation we control. Say we create a gravity well for the xenolithe to get stuck in then we hit
them with what we can to defeat them. Mind you we will be far enough away until the xenolithe
are trapped."

Holis gave a big smile. "I see you have been thinking of ways to use the holographic capabilities
aboard. Kudos.
As for a gravity well, the possibility is unlikely...," he shook his head gravely, ",... the holographic
matrix and artificial gravity field are independent systems though they can be used
cooperatively. The artificial gravity safety is set at three times earth normal which according to
what we have seen may slow them a bit but I'm not certain it will stop them. Anything greater
would require a command override unless I'm mistaken."

He gave a slight chuckle. "But as for a distraction... the holographic matrix, properly
programmed should be able to provide a suitable one."

He gave her a wink. "Is there anything else?"

(Reply: Trei iyw)
(Posted by Charles Gatling)
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(USS Raptor -- Personal Quarters - Deck 4 -- Bridge Pool Officer - Ensign Tavay – 2100 )

Tavay looked at the tiny room: table, replicator, and a double bed. Not very plush but it was
bigger than her usual rack, but still too small for 2. She had returned to the quartermaster, told
her that the rack was gone, and assured Tavay that this was all she had. This was indeed an
uncomfortable situation.

Looking at the floor, Tavay figured she could make herself a nice place to sleep. At least the
Quartermaster was able to secure herself extra blankets, pillows, and a Mattress pad. That was
all she needed.

Tavay moved the table closer to the bed and made herself a bed on the floor. She made sure
that it did not get in the way of anyone walking around. She changed into some comfortable
clothes and pulled out her PADD. She need to study if she was going to be in the Bridge pool for
the new ship. She wanted to be flawless.
Putting her PADD away, she closed her eyes and went to sleep.

(USS Raptor -- Personal Quarters - Deck 4 -- Bridge Pool Officer - Ensign Tavay and DCO
Ensign James Shaw – 23:30 )

The door opened and James Shaw entered the room. “What a night,” he said. “Computer,
light,” he called and the light turned on. He dropped his duffle bag on the floor and noticed the
lump on the floor. “Hey, roomie, are you asleep?”
Tavay groaned and turned over and covered her head with the blanket, “Turn back haeiul'llhnae
khoi ehdhihss (hhaeka int) fvadt iebhe heavy hlumir.”

“Great move to get us private quarters. Do we have our own head?” he asked as he poked
around the small room, “I had a few drinks and need to pay rent on the ale.”

Tavay grumbled “The head is through the door at the end of the bed.”

Shaw entered the room and a few minutes later came back into the main room. He stuck his
hand out. “Ensign James Shaw. My friends call me Jay,” he said. “I’m from Ireland, I like to sing
and I play a mean penny whistle. What’s your name?”

Tavay grumbled, “Tavay. Can you keep it down, I have to be on shift in a few hours and could
use the sleep.”

“Táé sé iontach bualadh leat,” he said with a smile, “It's great to meet you,” he said ignoring her
plea.

He moved to the desk and sat in the chair. “Listen Tavay, I have an idea. I’ve been on this ship
for a bit and in damage control, I know the ins and outs. You up for getting your hands dirty? I
think we could build a nice bunk bed arrangement here in the room. You can even have the
bottom bunk. That way no one sleeps on the floor.”

“Sounds like an interesting plan.”

“If you add a curtain around, it’ll feel like you are sleeping with the other lower deckers. We
might even get an extra chair in here.” James sounded excited at the prospect.

“One of the things I have learned to be is resourceful. Besides, when was the last time you
slept on the floor? What is the saying…’ Don’t knock it until you try it.’”

“Tavay, I’ve slept on plenty of floors in my day. Some even of my own choosing. Having a bunk
makes it and will prevent us from tripping over each other,” Shaw said.

“We can do what you like, but I am very content. We can do as you wish. Would not want you
old bones to go still no do we?” Tavay said. She had since put her PADD down. She leaned
forward and started to fold up her blankets.

“I see you’re a comedian too,” he said smiling, “Ain’t an old bone in this body, some are even
really new. I’ve had my share of accidents playing football and rugby,” he said. Turning to the
computer, he typed in some commands, and the display changed. “What do you think?

Tavay looked at the screen. Last thing she wanted to do when staying up late with a man was
building but he seemed insistent. “Looks great. Do you know where the materials are located
to build the bunk?”

“Deck 15, the fabrication lab for the frame pieces, Cargo bay 1 for an extra mattress and such,”
Shaw said. He pushed a button and a timer appeared on the screen, “Take a couple of hours to
get the pieces finished. Why don’t you take the bed for now while the replicators do their work.”
Tavay looked at the bed and shrugged. Tavay stood and finished folding the blankets. Tight
folds made the blankets crisp. She placed the blankets and pillows in the closet and the
mattress pad remained on the floor. “Let me change and then we can get started.” She was not
going to be able to go back to sleep now.

(Reply none)
(Posted by Kris and Tim)
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End Compile