>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: You Can't Go Home Again Day: 5 Stardate: 2444.06.05 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Cargo Bay - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams -0145) (Mars Base, Medical, Medical/Counselor, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice 02:00) (Martian Ground Facilities – Main corridor – officer living quarters section-civilian specialist engineer Kora – 0206) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Captain’s Quarters - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams and Ensign JG Ravok- 0416) (Mars Facility – medical bay turbo lift corridor - Civilian specialist Kora-0447) (Mars Facility – Admiral’s Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 0815) (Mars Base, Medical Center,  Sec/Tac Ensign Taya, 0846) (Mars Facility – Engineering – Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0900) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering, Chief Engineer’s Office – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek – 0902) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Main Security Office - SEC, Ens Carson Peters – 0903) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering - Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0905) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering, Chief Engineer’s Office – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek – 0907) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Brig– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 0910) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering – Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0910) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Tactical Command Post -Ensign Garek Darpeg – 0910) (Mars Facility – Gym - ENS JG Ailynn Bracken and Ensign JG Trip Williams -1910) (Mars Ground Facility, Science Annex -aACSO's office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 0930) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peter’s Office – SEC, Ens(jg) Carson Peters – 0937) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 0945) (Mars Facilities - Landing Pad 1 – Medical/Counseling Officer, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice – 09:45) (Mars Ground Facility, Landing Pad One, Runabout Delilah -- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 0955) (Mars Facilities - Landing Pad 1 - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 09.57) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Captain’s Quarters - Ensign JG Ire Williams and Ensign JG Ravok- 1000) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Cockpit - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams and FSO Ensign Ire Williams - 1230) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Cockpit - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams -1800) (Mars Base, Sec/Tac Ensign Taya, 1801) (Mars ground facilty - hanger bay - Ensign JG Ravok-1803) (Mars ground facilty - hanger bay - Pilot - Ensign JG Ire Williams-1804) (Mars Base, Science Annex - Arboretum - SO, Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin, 1805) (Mars Base, Triage, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 1806) (Mars Base, Science Annex - aACSO's Office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 1807) (Mars Base, Hanger, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 1807) (Mars ground facilty - Engineering department - Civilan specialist engineer Kora -1807) (Mars Base, Science Annex - Arboretum - aACSO, Ensign Sekal- 1811) (Mars Facility – Admiral’s office - Admiral Remae Ktell and Ensign JG Trip Williams -1830) (Mars Facility – Medical bay- Room 2 - Ensign JG -1940) (Mars Facility – Medical - Ensign JG- Ire Williams -1944) (Mars Facility – Medical - Ensign JG Ravok -1945) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Cargo Bay - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams -0145) Whoever they were up against the battle was over. There had been a group of Raiders that had left the Pioneer before she was destroyed, converging on Alex's fighter. They had sent one of the pirates aboard, but she had managed to subdue them. As for the other raiders, when they realized how surrounded they were by the remaining operational fighters, they began to flee, only to stop and then self destruct. The God of War had pulled up near the damaged skull one, bringing the prisoner aboard, Trip had placed him in the cargo bay. He then ordered the squadrons to evenly spread out those personnel whose crafts were unflyable amongst the shuttles so that everyone could have a lift home. He had also arranged for Ravok to be transferred to the God of War, the quarters there were more comfortable for a man who almost died. He also asked for Ire and Alex to get their things together and return back to Mars on the God of War. Having the three squad leaders would make it easier for him to debrief them as he started filling out his report for the admiral. As soon as he was sure that everyone was were they needed to be and that Ravok was stable, he gave the order for all craft to return home. Baker was piloting Warbird One, with another of the crew moving over to fly with him. A few craft were being towed home by the Shuttles, while Void One was a heap of debris floating in the Kuiper belt. They would be home in roughly 16 hours, hopefully those 16 hours were about as boring and uneventful as the first 16. Trip had other business to attend to. He stood in the cargobay looking at the Grazerite. Chief Taris and PO Rix standing next to him. "I can feel that you're scared, don't worry, we're not going to hurt you, we just want you to cooperate." Trip said calmly. "I'm not scared about you, I'm scared about them. The information was too good to pass up, the money too good. But they had insurance policies. They didn't want us talking to anyone. In a matter of moments I'm dead anyways." The Grazerite looked at Trip. Taris and Rix and phasers pointed at him as he tried to reach into his pocket. "Keep your hands where I can see them." The Grazerite smiled, "Can you at least let my body float in the infinity with my dead brothers." He looked at Trip, then a jolt went from the chip in his neck to his brain and he died. Trip moved over to the console and did as he request, beaming him into space. ~What a waste of life.~ He thought to himself. ~These men didn't need to die, so why would, why would anyone give them suicide devices just to keep them from talking.~ In that moment, Trip began to feel his anxiety began to rise, emotions surge, but he breathed, and he focused his mind on what mattered, his parents, his sister, his best friend, his crew, the anxiety lowered and he turned to Rix and Taris. "Well, are you about as ready to get home as I am?" (reply none) (posted by Will Banowsky) (Mar Base, Medical, Medical/Counselor, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice 02:00) Quinna sat and took a break. She used her shift time to keep organizing the storage closets. She was on the quietest shift, so she thought. A commotion in the back startled Quinna. She stood and moved to the back and looked in the room. “What the Frack is going on in here?” Quinna noticed the mess that was caused. At least is was the boxes that she had not already organized. "Hey Doc, I'm sorry, couldn't sleep and had an idea and well. Didn't mean to make noise trying to get around a box that wasn't there earlier. If you want to talk? You can keep me company while I work?" Kiva smiled. “What are you doing sneaking around here?” Quinna asked. She signed. There was no reason to get all up in arms. (Reply Kiva) “So what is this idea you have?” Quinna inquired. (Reply Kiva) (Played by Kris) (Martian Ground Facilities – Main corridor – officer living quarters section-civilian specialist engineer Kora – 0206) Kora walked down the main corridor with a a hard silver backpack on her back, a tool bag on her and scanner in her hand. She was scanning power conduits and relays to see if they were functioning at or above normal operating capacity. Ensign Merek had sent her a to do list. To repair and upgrade any terminals, power stations, power conduits, doors, atmospheric regulators, replicators, etc. Her scanner started beeping Kora turned towards the wall " There you are" she said as she closed her scanner and pulled out a tool. She raised the small cylindrical tool towards the wall panel it flashed blue twice and the panel opened . Kora put the tool away and dropped down to one knee and pulled another tool out located in a pocket on her right leg. The tool was used to locate any defective isolinear chips. The defective isolinear chip popped out of the plate . Kora reached her right hand behind her back , on the the lower right side of her backpack was a slot . The replacement isolinear chip popped out of the slot. Kora grabbed it and put the chip in place. All the chips flashed various colors as she inserted it. She then recharged the 4 bypass relays that surrounded the chip plate and all the chips let up green than orange then finally reset to their normal colors. " One down 89 more to go " she said as she whistled and closed the wall panel. She stood up and continued down the corridor scanning the walls. (Reply any) ( posted by davis ) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Captain’s Quarters - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams and Ensign JG Ravok- 0416) Trip sat overlooking Ravok. The poor man almost died, and had they not taken the Romulan pirate prisoner, he probably would have. Trip wanted to sit and take vigil over Ravok in case anything happened, but it seemed like he would make it. “You fought hard out there champ.” Trip said to what he thought was an unconscious Ravok. Ravok stirred and looked up at Trip with a groggy smile. "Hveolhaonn'm ueiik'h'unhr vorta vor ta'hwswai 'hh ouye" ((I'm in Vorta Vor….its beautifu)) He said in Romulan as his eyes focused in on Trip, still groggy he smiled . “Oh you’re up, I guess the sedative wore off, how are you feeling?” " I'm feeling good . Next time maybe a bigger dagger will do the trick. " He said with a laugh as he grabbed his side with pain suddenly a worried look came to his face. " Baker ? Petrova? Ire? Are they ok ?" He asked with fear in his eyes . “They’re all fine. None of ours died. Thanks be to whomever is watching over us.” " God, Gods , Goddesses there are so many to chose from . I guess we should thank them all. Maybe they are all the same ,him...her it doesnt matter . We owe them big time on this one " he replied to Trip. “You did good out there, we ran into some unexpected twists. But you’re gonna need to see a doctor when we get back and whatever medical leave she gives you, you have to take, and it doesn’t count for bereavement.” Ravok laughed and sighed " I just get here and get a vacation. Plus my mother is on Mars waiting for me. A few days with her trying to wipe food off my face with a napkin and trying to rock me sleep." He looked at Trip and jokingly said " If you kill me now I wont hold it against you." “If I killed you know it would be murder, and I’m not looking for a court martial.” ~Though, I may have one coming.~ Ravok noticed that Trip seemed to be bothered by something " Nickel.. I mean Penny for your thoughts sir "? He asked Trip “If I would have grounded you and stuck to my guns, you would not have almost died.” Ravok looked at Trip with stern look " Listen to me . This isnt on you. None of this is. You said we made it. We made it because you led us. You brought us together Sir . The only thing anyone can blame you for is the success of this mission. If anyone and I mean anyone says otherwise I will be at your side to defend you . I dont know if it means anything to you but you have my word on that sir " He looked at Trip and smiled. " I know a good man when I see one and I'm looking at one right now. Everything you said to me the other day was right.” “If I’m a good man, its because my mom and dad raised me right. To be honest, to be loyal, to do the right thing. Follow the rules when they make sense, trust your gut when they don’t, but remember the rules are the rules, because before they were the rules, people died.” Ravok nodded his head . " We dont always turn out the way they want us to but we can try...in the short time I have known you. You have been honest, loyal and whether you chose to believe it or not you do the right thing Sir. I'm sure they are proud of you . I am " Ravok said “They are, we did good today, you guys did good today. Honestly it was killing me being in tha back watching and directing and not being up there skirmishing with you guys, and when Alex almost went down, I’m not ready to lose anyone under my command just yet.” " You were right where you needed to be . We just graduated the academy two weeks ago. Asking any of us to command anything is a huge burden but you did it. And besides who is ever ready to lose someone under their command? " “The professionals,” Trip smiled. “Well I guess I would have been ok if you died, you’re kind of a pain and it would be addition by subtraction.” Trip laughed so that Ravok would know he was kidding. Ravok looked at him with fake mean face. But couldn't hold back a smile. " The past few years have been rough on me . Trying to assimilate into the blended culture of the federation. You all handle your emotions so different. I'm slowly understanding how you handle your emotions but no one understands us Romulans . I've been told we are more mysterious than vulcans on that matter. I would explain to people that If someone punched you in the face you would instantly jump to defend yourselves . We Romulans would seek to understand why ...before reacting.People have always treated me different . But when they treat me the same I dont understand. I'm young and still trying to find my place if I have one at all " “Well we have the rest of our lives to figure ourselves out. The thing is emotions are tricky and everyone has a different view on how to use them. Vulcans supress them, the more nefarious Romulans manipulate them, Klingons praise some emotions and not others, Ferengi praise the emotions related to pleasure and greed. Betazoids, embrace it. I’ve always preferred the human approach.” Ravok shuffled on the bed to sit himself up slightly. And breathed heavily. “The difference between my twin and I, is I’ve always felt more human, and she always felt more betazoid. I always felt more human, because emotion to a human is tricky, its sword of, a crazy ball of fun and sorrow, and it just ebbs and flows, but it centers, you directs you, and if you embrace it..Humans, we’re the most random, chaotic, and odd bunch in the Galaxy, I swear half are tech is held together by bubblegum and a prayer, but there is an unpredictability and a swagger of humanity, that I think, no I know, is part of my core. I just don’t want to tell my mom that I feel more in touch with my dad’s heritage than hers.” Ravok smirked. " My father told me that when he was a child his older brother would tell him there was a human hiding under his bed to scare him at night time. Humans are very complicated. I'm sure your mother would understand your feelings, she married a human after all. She would have to understand that you are a child of two worlds. Your complexity is beyond that of a human or betazoid. You are unique. Torn between two worlds. I have always felt like that too. I have never been around anymore than two romulans at the same time. I have never even been to New Romulus. I feel connected to a heritage I have never truly known besides my father I have no idea how to be a Romulan but I am drawn to it. But at the same time I want to find my place in all of this. " “Sounds like a noble goal.” " I had a human girlfriend. I met her in the academy the beginning of my second year. I loved her more than I have ever loved anything. She was my first everything. Her parents couldn't accept her being with me not because of who I am but what I am. She had lied to them and told them I was vulcan , she didn't tell me that so when I met her family and her father greeted me in Vulcan and her mother prepared a Vulcan dish for me I was surprised to say the least. " Ravok laughed. " I was so confused and angry but most of all hurt . That she expected me to go along with the lie. It's like she didn't even know who I was . I am honest and straightforward. I told her parents I was Romulan and her father pulled a phaser from under the couch and threatened to kill me" “Well that just sucks.” Trip said with a sigh, “I guess my family, we’re more open, I was really close to an Orion girl, and nobody cared she was Orion, granted she was adopted and her adoptive parents were human, but...I’m sorry to hear that. But who we are and where we are from, it doesn’t come from a rock, or a planet, or stories, it is in our blood.” " Yeah. Now I have the blood of a stranger running I'm veins . I wonder who I am now " Ravok said with a laugh and he grabbed his side in pain. " I'm fine I'm fine " Ravok lowered his voice and looked at Trip. " There is something I wanted to talk to you about sir. And if it's too much tell me to shut up...The other night I saw you getting in rather late . With a huge smile on your face. You didnt even notice me in the hallway I was turning the corner and saw you. Your uniform was let's just say it was very showing of a fun time. A wild Viking night for our commander ?" “It is none of your business. What I do on my spare time is none of your concern Ensign.” Trip got defensive. “Besides, how do you know I didn’t spend my night doing paperwork in the briefing room. Why do people always jump to firing torpedoes.” " Yes sir, " Ravok said in a fake serious tone. " No torpedos here Sir I'm just happy to have seen you happy and not under so much stress even if it was for a moment. I'm happy the paperwork made you look so at peace. " he said with a smile. " I'm sorry Sir I shouldn't have brought it up. It's just been on my mind and I want to be honest and straight forward with you at all times.” “It’s weird you calling me sir, we are in the same graduating class, but listen. You can speak your mind and be honest, when it comes to the mission, to the job, but when it comes to personal life, sometimes discretion is the key to valor. I mean does it matter if I spent the night somewhere else or with someone?” Ravok looked around the room and back at him . " Now I see the difference. When we Romulans say family. We mean it. When you shared your family tradition with us . And said Welcome to the family . I thought it meant more than just a phrase. I guess I was mistaken at it's intended purpose. Maybe it's just a human thing. But when we share family tradition we share ourselves and offer up something that cant be bought or taken . I am sorry for taking it the wrong way." “No, look listen,” Trip said trying to find his words, “Everyone thinks Romulans and Cardassians are the most duplicitous species out there. But they are wrong. It’s humans, we lie to ourselves all the time. When I said family, i meant it figuratively and slightly literally, but sometimes not everything is need to know for family members. When I was a Semi-Pro cage fighter I hid that from my parents, I concelead that part of my life. When my parents found out, they didn’t tell me they knew, they concelead that knowledge and let me keep fighting because they knew I needed to mature. Humans, humans, hide things from even those closest to them, because not everything is everyone’s business. We have our social lives, but we like to keep our private lives, well private.” " I would say you are the most confusing species of them all. But I think I understand what you are saying. Somethings are better left off the table where the family eats. I get it . It's hard trying to understand when I should take things literally or symbolically. Either way your sharing of the great William's family tradition meant and still means alot to me. " He said to Trip with a smile. " Now it's time for me to return the favor with the traditional Romulan song of my heritage it last 3 hours and its sang completely backwards . And every time I point at you you say Yeah! " Ravok said laughing . " I'm just kidding man. I think I got off on the wrong foot with you . I just want to seriously consider a guy like you my friend , when I earn it. That's all . I'm sorry for prying " Ravok said “Bro, you already have,” Trip paused, “Bro is a term of endearment, its like you are like my brother, but you’re not my brother, but I respect you like one. Trust me I need more guy friends, between Lynn and Sy, I’m surrounded by estrogen.” " I understand. Thank you ...bro " Ravok said with a slight hesitation but with enthusiasm. “But listen, when it comes to the hokey pokey, sometimes its best not to pry, because it takes two to tango, and sometimes its best to keep things private out of respect for the other dance partner, you get what I’m saying?” Ravok nodded his head in agreement . " I certainly wouldn't want to disrespect a fellow officer in such a manner especially if they are part of this family " He said to Trip as he pointed his finger back and forth between the two of them. Kind of hinting that he knew who the dance partner was . But he felt such a thing was better left unspoken. Out of respect for him and Ensign Petrova “Good, so let’s just leave my private life, private. Besides, what about you, anyone catch your fancy back on mars?” " If I had a private life to protect. I would have a strong rebuttal for you ." He said jokingly " Well the councilor you ordered me to talk to..she is beautiful. Soft delicate ridges. And the sweetest voice . Also my lead technician Maria Reyes is gorgeous. Ensign Petrova too strong for me . Only a good man for that woman " he said with a smirk. " I dont know. I dont think of women in that way until I know them. Im always afraid to make the first move " He said with a frown " There is one though. I have only seen once in person and then again in her picture on the roster. Her hair is the most beautiful shade of blonde I have ever seen. Her grey eyes peered into my soul.The glow of her skin took my breath away... And her ears come to the most perfect cutest points I have ever seen and she double majored at the academy in engineering and operations." He said as he nervously looked at Trip. "In other words ...Bro shes perfect " Ravok said with a smile as he looked at the ceiling “Umm, I don’t think I’ve met that one, but one of the engineers is half romulan. What, you gonna try and make her bloodline more pure or something like that.” Ravok looked at Trip and laughed " Nooo, look I first seen her at the academy during my third year. It was right after me and my ex split . I came back from our holiday break and she was the first person I saw she smiled and nodded her head as if to say hello and kept walking off to wherever she was going. But that smile , wow that smile . Unbelievable. Shes not only beautiful but she is absolutely brilliant. . I should of approached her , but I dont think I'm good enough for someone like that . None of us are" Ravok exclaimed looking as if he were on cloud 9 thinking about. Her . “Dude, you don’t know until you try. Man I dated a girl whose dad was a Marine, granted a Marine doctor, but a scary Marine, and that didn’t stop me from trying. Granted she ripped out my heart and had somebody else’s kid, but I don’t regret trying. The relationship wasn’t the best but there were more good than bad times.” " Yeah , I see what you saying but I feel like it's better to admire from afar , I dont want her thinking its because I'm a romulan and shes half romulan and shes the best choice I have I dont care if she was full human...her ears are perfect though. The way she tucks her hair behind her ears. Hmmm" “Listen, some officers go their whole career focused on rank and command, that they never find love and happiness. So you have to ask yourself, what is more important love and family or the pips on your collar.” " Well I probably wont have a choice in the matter. My mother is back on Mars as we speak , and Ensign Merek is now the you of engineering. My mother reports to her and my mother knows about the quote unquote mystery girl from the academy. My mother isnt an idiot she will put two and two together and realize this is it the mystery girl and she will run her big proud klingon mouth while trying to play match maker. Because she wants Grand babies " Ravok said as he gripped his side and his skin became green as his blood pressure rose. He took a deep breath. " I guess I have time to deal with this when I get back " “Just don’t be a creeper bud, talk to her. Nothing worth having in life is easy...trust me I know.” " I will take your advice . I trust you . I should get some rest now. I'm still a little light headed thank you for talking to me ...and Sir, well done. We are Spartans " Ravok said as he laid back down to rest . ( reply none) (posted by Will and Davis) (Mars Facility – medical bay turbo lift corridor - Civilian specialist Kora-0447) " That's the fourth one, what's going on here? " Kora asked herself as her scanner detected a high power surge in a terminal that was in other wise good shape. Kora checked the tactile input calibrations. They were perfect a little too perfect. She opened the wall panel next to the terminal. The power level was 68 percent above normal. "Just like the others...that's it I'm reporting this ." She stated. Kora knew that this was highly suspicious. The only way a terminal would maintain perfect settings with a massive over abundance of power running to it would be because someone set it like that. She pulled her PADD out of her back pack and sent a messaged to security and Ensign Merek informing them of her findings. As it was policy if something seemed suspicious to report it to security and immediate supervisor. ( reply any) (Posted by Davis) (Mars Facility – Admiral’s Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 0815) Remae was looking over the progress reports from all departments, work was proceeding nicely on many fronts but it seemed to him that everyone was working on everything at once and although that meant, eventually, everything would be operational, that would be years of work. Things were developing to a point where that was no longer a luxury they could afford. =^= Admiral, Starfleet Command is on the line. =^= Jenny was efficient as always and the Admirals terminal lit up with the face of Admiral Donovan Cayne was on the screen. =^= Ah, Admiral. I’ll keep this brief. We’ve reviewed your reports and we’re very interested in this Trill ambassador and her proposal. You are authorised to proceed. =^= The Bajoran’s head titled forward to the screen for a moment before he said, “Just like that? Go to Trill and just, ask them to return to the Federation? I am sure that will take no time at all! Plus, in the meantime, what happens here?”, he said. 5 days in and he and the entire senior staff are off to Trill. =^= Just make it happen =^= The screen flickered off and Remae spun the screen of his terminal around with a smack of his hand. Just like that, Remae went from CO of Mars to CO of ship and it had been a while, when was the last time he had sat in the command chair? =^ Admiral, you have a visitor to see you =^= A moment later, the Admiral was back at station business, “Okay, send them in.”, he said looking at the door as it opened to revealed a Cardassian walking confidently towards him, not just any Cardassian, a Cardassian in Starfleet Medical Uniform. The new Ensign identified himself as Dural Methor and Remae nodded, keeping his emotions in check. The database called the Cardassian an expert in Epidemiology; an interesting choice that Starfleet Command thought they needed such an expert, but a Doctor was a Doctor. “Have a seat, Ensign.”, he said and while he made himself comfortable, Remae thought back to the last time he was on Cardassia. The Spectre had crashed landed on the surface and the reasons and the official report to the loss of the Spectre was never made available to anyone and despite years of trying, he’d never seen the report. Remae’s parents had experienced the occupation and like most other Bajorans, the stories had been told and retold but that was the ancient past. “Welcome to Mars, Ensign. Tell me a little bit about yourself.”, asked Remae and he listened carefully as the Ensign talked about himself. (Reply from Methor, Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) (Mars Base, Medical Center,  Sec/Tac Ensign Taya, 0846) Recognizing her from her file photo, Taya saw Doctor Ailynn Bracken. Taya's antennae began to vibrate and a large smile spread across her face. She stood to meet her. "Good morning… Ensign?" "Taya. Ensign Taya from security." "Forgive the delay. Doctor Bracken, Ailynn. How can I help?" "Don't worry about any delays. We're all very busy here." Taya's stomach was fluttering and her heart was pounding. She had waited for this moment for her entire life and now that it had come, she felt like a giddy schoolgirl. Taya's and Ailynn's mothers served together for a short time on the Hades, both in medical and when Ailynn's mother, Aimee, was promoted to captain, and Taya's mother, Tesha, to CMO. Shortly before the Hades was taken out of service, Aimee learned she was pregnant with Ailynn, and it had been Tesha that made the original diagnosis. The plan was for Tesha to care for Aimee and deliver the baby. That never happened, as both Aimee and Tesha had gone their separate ways when their Hades tour ended. Taya's mother told her stories from that time and she could see it was a special part of her mother's life. As expected, Ailynn didn't know who Taya was, as she had a different last name from her mother. "I'm here, Doctor, er, Ailynn, to talk about the security and quarenteen protocols for the samples our new arrival, Doctor Methor has graced us with. I know your department is trained for this, and I'm not telling you what to do. I'd just like security to be kept informed of everything involved. I'd also like regular reports from Doctor Methor. Perhaps we could schedule a containment breech drill at some point. Again, I know you have this covered, so seeing you is more a formality, as I haven't been able to come by yet since I arrived." (reply Bracken, any) (posted by Rob B.) (Mars Facility – Engineering – Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0900) Aleese had finally gotten her ‘Vault’ the way she had wanted. It was not that it had been messy or dirty she had made sure that everything had been in its place since the shut down and had been periodically checking the files and designs to make sure that there was not any degradation. She also wanted to give the Starfleetl engineers time to settle in and begin to get a hands on their mammoth task before she went to say hi. ~Well now seam like a good time~ She tapped the PADD she carried which contained an overview of the all the designs in the ‘Vault’ she stepped into the room which was busy with people. “Excuse I would like to speak to someone.” (Reply Engineering) (Reply Engineering, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering, Chief Engineer’s Office – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek – 0902) Keira had just gotten things where everything was starting to make some progress. Then yesterday late into the night orders for Castile to go to a professional development school came in on a priority channel. The man had less than 6 hours to pack and head back to Earth for a grueling class regimen, when you get an opening, you get an opening. She knew it was going to hurt to send him. She didn’t know just how much, until today. The sheer amount that one person got done was more evident in his absence, but it wouldn’t be fair to his career progression if she kept him behind. The three shift Chiefs were now in her office finalizing the moving around of personnel to account for one man’s absence. The room was mostly standard issue with no decorations. There was a display monitor on the left side as you walked in with a desk perpendicular to it shoved mostly to the wall. There was a chair behind the desk with just enough room to move around. On the opposite side closest to the door was a bench against the wall and a pair of seats on the entrance side of the desk. These two seats and a bench is where the discussion had begun. “What if we move Smith up here and Boral to take that place…” “Yeah, then shift Leonetti down here.” “That could work…” “Excuse I would like to speak to someone.” Someone said. Keira would have missed it if not for her excellent hearing. The room broke to a dead silence as she held up her hand to the trio of senior NCOs. ~Must be here to place a work order.~ “Here to place a work order?” Keira asked while reaching out to grab the PADD that was usually handed out in these instances. She went into the “first timer” work order brief that she’s had to do at least a dozen times by now…“We’re extremely busy, we can’t guarantee work orders will be completed in the order they are received. Work is completed by order of precedence which can change on a case by case basis…” (Reply Aleese) “You aren’t here for a work order?” she confirmed. (Reply Aleese) (posted by Todd) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Main Security Office - SEC, Ens Carson Peters – 0903) Carson had made his way into the office earlier on in the morning and had completed his morning briefing with his personnel and then moved onto what was becoming somewhat of a chore every morning. There was a log the length of his arm of unauthorised off-base communications which he needed to sift through and sign off if they were legitimate. The reason this was necessary was because on the first day the base became inhabited again the security personnel were having to make 50+ visits to people making calls off base without following the correct base procedure. They did not have that kind of time, or that amount of staff, so between them the senior officers had temporarily deactivated the alarm which pointed out when there was an unauthorised transmission. Once everything had settled down, Carson was going to have Security officers visiting every department and re-educating everyone on the proper procedures to be used. He took the padd into his office and transferred the information onto the desk terminal, sat down with a cup of hot coffee and began sifting through the information. Every morning so far, there had not been anything major. Mostly younger officers and personnel making the “I made it, Mom” call back home and thankfully those had been lowering in quantity every day making the job easier. About 20 minutes in one communication peaked Carson’s interest, he put sat up a little straighter and delved into it. Late last night a communication had been made to someone unknown from somewhere- also unknown on the base and the message had been encrypted. “Computer, pinpoint source of the communication number 344782” [Unable to identify the terminal communication number 344782 originated from] The response troubled Carson. With everything going on now with the pirates and the information from the Breen prisoner identifying that someone on the base was selling integral flight information to them. This could be the clue they needed. He tapped his comm. badge and said, “Ensigns Taya, Flagg & Darpeg, this is Ensign Peters. Could you meet me in my office at 10am?” (Reply Taya, Flagg, Darpeg) Once he had made sure they were available he tapped his comm. badge once again, “Ensign Peters to Ensign Rozen & Foxglove. I require an Intelligence presence in a meeting at 10am, are either or both of you available to attend?” (reply Rozen &/or Foxglove) “Excellent, my office at 10am if you could.” Carson said as he closed the link and then once again reopened it. “Chief Tamblyn, could you come to my office at around 9:45 please.” (Reply Tamblyn) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering - Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0905) Aleese stepped over to a blond-haired woman whose hair was tucked behind her pointy ears as the room fell silent. ~Hmm Vulcan ancestry or Romulan does not matter~ “Here to place a work order?” “We’re extremely busy, we can’t guarantee work orders will be completed in the order they are received. Work is completed by order of precedence which can change on a case by case basis…” Aleese shook her head. “I can see, that’s not why I am here.” “You aren’t here for a work order?” She smiled politely. “No, I came to see if I could be some help to you. My name is Aleese Akess I am the archivist of the Vault. It is the Mars research and development archive section where all the designs, blueprints, plans and schematics for ships in Utopia Planica as well as some ground-based installations are kept. I have a large repository full of designs going back to the start of the federation as well as some from other governments.” (Reply Merek) She handed over the PADD. “This PADD has an overview of what the Vault contains most of it is up loadable but some of the data is hard copy only.” (Reply Merek) (Reply Merek, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering, Chief Engineer’s Office – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek – 0907) “No, I came to see if I could be some help to you. My name is Aleese Akess I am the archivist of the Vault. It is the Mars research and development archive section where all the designs, blueprints, plans and schematics for ships in Utopia Planica as well as some ground-based installations are kept. I have a large repository full of designs going back to the start of the federation as well as some from other governments.” The red haired woman began to explain. A single eye-brow arched in fascination from the Romulan, “So there’s a large depository of ship designs that exists here on this world that I am currently standing on, and I am just learning this information, now?” Despite the sarcasm, she was certainly eager to learn more. She handed over the PADD, and Keira accepted it. “This PADD has an overview of what the Vault contains most of it is up loadable but some of the data is hard copy only.” She explained further. She glanced through the PADD that contained a list so big the list itself was a database. The list itself was cross referenced by date of construction, alphabetically, by origin of manufacture. The class names, some she was familiar with, NX, Constitution, Miranda, Excelsior, Galaxy. Others she was not, Locknar, Markland, Larson. Various destroyers, and frigates and other types of vessels from all time periods. “How long have you been here? I did not know that there was even an archive, let alone that someone was manning it.” She asked still looking through the list. (Reply Akess) “Are you military? Civilian?” She asked. Still perusing the list, “You have the specs for a 2200s B’rel class bird of prey?” ~ Where would they get…~ She snapped her fingers in a eureka moment. “The whales! Right?” (Reply Akess) “I see, and you are giving access to this archive to me? No catch?” she asked. She was cautious. This could be a game changer if they were to get their dock facilities up and running. (Reply Akess) (Posted by Todd) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Brig– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 0910) Charles had gotten into the complex early; strangely enough, to visit one of the civilian “guests” that was being held in the brig. As he approached the cell in question, he called out “Anouk, What the hell were you thinking?” Anouk was a rather attractive Betazd woman in her early 40s with an interesting soul, to say the least. She had dark hair and green eyes with an Italian-like complexion. A reformed cat-burglar that at one time she had been studying to be a priestess. Sometimes, people make some interesting career choices. In the brig, Anouk sat up on her bunk and smiled at Tamblyn, “Well, Charles; its good to see you, darling.” “Its good to see you too. What happened” She stood up and walked up to the cell’s forcefield, “Honey, you know me. I get bored easily if I am not more…shall we say, more intimately entertained.” “I know, I know. But damn, the first time you break a major law of any kind and it is at the same station that I am working security in. What were you thinking? “I was lonely and missed you. Besides, you were only home a week before you mob-ed after you last ‘hunting trip’. Which reminds me; T’Lela wanted to know if you would be interested in part ownership of Impetuous Industries. She hasn’t been the same since Chance died. Now come on already, Charlie. Let me out of here already.” Looking at the floor and shaking his head for a moment. Charles looked at her, “Sweetheart, you’re my wife, but you should have remained on the ranch. You were caught while fleeing the scene of an attempted B&E.” “But those were your quarters, and I am your wife.” She stated as she stuffed her hands into her jumpsuit’s pockets. In frustration and a small amount of resignation, Tamblyn said, “Anouk, if it was me or one of the folks from the Sheriff’s office, it wouldn’t be a problem. But you got caught by one of the fleet security guys that I supervise. You didn’t even tell me you were coming.” Before Charles could continue, he was interrupted by, =^=Chief Tamblyn, could you come to my office at around 9:45, please. =^= As he looked at his wife as she started to pace in her cell and beginning to stretch out some, he tapped his comm badge, “I copy, sir. Will be there shortly.” Once the communication had been cut off, he then said to Anouk, “After I find out what he needs, I will see about getting you released. Just keep in mind that you will have to return to Earth.” She sat back down on the bed and got into a seductive pose and replied, “Just not right away though, right?” Charles smirked and blew Anouk a kiss. “If I can, I’ll bring you something good to eat later. Bye, babe.” Before she could reply, Tamblyn headed out of the brig area and proceeded to Ensign Peters’ Office. (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering – Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0910) “How long have you been here? I did not know that there was even an archive, let alone that someone was manning it.” “I have been here for about ten years but here has been an archive on mas since it was moved out here from earth. When the shipyards were building at its hight there was a staff of 40 people but now its just me.” “Are you military? Civilian?” “You have the specs for a 2200s B’rel class bird of prey?” Aleese watched Merek snapped her fingers “The whales! Right?” Aleese nodded. “That was our main resource but not our only one by far. I was with the fleet for a long time before I became the archivist.” “I see, and you are giving access to this archive to me? No catch?” Aleese smiled. “The Vault was built to help facilitate Utopia Planica. There is not conflict of interest about where the information goes event the ship designs from foreign governments were all obtained legitimately and above board.” “The main designs schematics can be retrieved form the Vaults main system but my personal schematics….” She indicated a couple of them. “…I only have in hard copy so you would have to come down see them personally.” (Reply Merek) “I was also wondering. If there are any ships that you are working on at the moment, if might be able to go and see them so that I can update my designs. It’s been a while since I was on a starship.” (Reply Merek) (Reply Merek, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Tactical Command Post -Ensign Garek Darpeg – 0910) Darpeg heard this come over his commbadge while he was compiling a list of items to ask the entity for in the form of downloaded files, =/\=Ensigns Taya, Flagg & Darpeg, this is Ensign Peters. Could you meet me in my office at 10am?=/\= Stevens had his own office now, or was he just using an unused office that he adopted as his own? Anyway, he struck Darpeg as somewhat officious. He decided to give him a dose of his own medicine. Darpeg the said, "I will put it on my schedule." (Reply Stevens) He then said "Computer, plot a path to Ensign Stevens, calculate travel time, and notify me when I can leave here and get to the destination at 0955." [Working] came the old fashioned computer voice. (Posted by Gary Dupree) (Mars Ground Facility, Science Annex -aACSO's office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 0930) He had been here since 0800 and considering his options. Currently there were five in the party headed to the Mystique and he had decided that splitting the group would be more efficient to accomplish multiple objectives. He needed a particular type of individual however. Counselor Solice was not a telepath and he needed at the least an empath. That made the decision as easy one. He spoke to the computer. "Communication to Counselor Trei." =^= Ready. =^= "Counselor Trei this is Ensign Sekal, are you available to transport to the Mystique with the science team? I have need of someone with your expertise." (Reply: Trei) "We will meet you at landing pad one and will be using the transporter on the Delilah. Thank you Counselor." (Reply: Trei) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peter’s Office – SEC, Ens(jg) Carson Peters – 0937) The door chime went, Carson looked up towards the door and remembered he hadn’t set the protocols on it yet. He had barely spent any time in the office thus far so hadn’t gotten around to doing so. Unless otherwise requested her preferred the door to just open to any Security Officer. “Open.” He said and then stood up and moved around the sparse desk to welcome his guest. Chief Tamblyn was an older man that had seen quite a few scrapes, he’d been a part of Starfleet years ago and then voluntarily re-enlisted and assigned to Mars base. Carson had gone through his service record a few days ago when he’d been on a “get to know” the team binge but up until this moment hadn’t actually gotten to meet the man in person. Carson had been happy to know that not all of the security officers on the department we’re inexperienced and he and the other senior officers had some experience they could lean on if required to do so. “Thanks for coming.” He said as he welcomed him into the office and offered him on of the chairs available, as he did Carson sat down in a chair as if to make it obvious that he didn’t expect to have this conversation whilst standing. “I’ve seen you around the department, but with everything going on unfortunately haven’t found that time to properly introduce myself so far and I felt it was the polite thing to do before I read you in on a problem we currently face.” He paused for a second and then continued, “So with that being said, I’m Carson Peters. Good to finally get a chance to meet you in person.” (Reply Tamblyn iyw) “I understand from your record that you have some experience in the Private Investigations business outside of Starfleet?” (Reply Tamblyn) Carson nodded at the response, “The reason I ask… is that we have an issue which requires immediate attention and I’d like to enlist your help.” He kept his voice level. He didn’t suspect Tamblyn at all, but neither did he know the man any until the perpetrators were caught or evidence came to light which ruled certain people out, everyone was a suspect. “Let me catch you up on what I know so far. The pirate attack left us with a prisoner, who is currently under Medical detention due to, ah, unfortunate circumstances during their interrogation. When this prisoner was detained we found information on their person which originated from this base.” Carson stopped for a second and measured the man’s response. (Reply Tamblyn iyw) “So it seems that either we have a traitor on the base or an entrepreneurial spirit which is selling confidential information to the highest bidder. Either way we need this person or persons found.” Carson pulled over a padd with the information on the encrypted communications and handed it to the Chief Petty Officer. “This morning when clearing through the unauthorised communication list, I came across one which concerns me. Everything about it is either unknown or encrypted several times, the person who initiated the call has used VPN protocols to route it through several terminals on the base as to hide where the call originates from. In the past 20 minutes, I’ve asked the computer to search back and look for similar communications over the past few days and it’s come back with 3 similar matches.” (Reply Tamblyn iyw) “I’ve called a meeting of the senior officers from both Security & Intelligence to set in place a closed loop investigation in an effort to weed out this person. The reason I’ve called you in a little earlier is because I’d like you work with whoever Intelligence sends over. I don’t entirely trust them, so need someone with your experience to work with them on decrypting these communications and following the information you gain from them to the source.” (Reply Tamblyn) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 0945) As Tamblyn entered the office, Ensign Peters walked around the desk saying, “Thanks for coming.” The young ensign offered him one of the chairs, and as he did, Carson sat down as well. “I’ve seen you around the department, but with everything going on unfortunately haven’t found that time to properly introduce myself so far and I felt it was the polite thing to do before I read you in on a problem we currently face.” He paused for a second and then continued, “So with that, I’m Carson Peters. Good to finally get a chance to meet you in person.” “Nice to meet you, sir. It’s obvious to me that there is something going on that’s causing that look of consternation on your face, and I prefer pleasantries over drinks. If you don’t mind sir, shall we get to the problem in question?” While his mother made sure that he had a classical education, to include diplomacy and a rather vast vocabulary; Charles was regularly rather blunt when dealing with others. But when the painful need arises, Tamblyn could out double-talk most politicians. “I understand from your record that you have some experience in the Private Investigations business outside of Starfleet?” Tamblyn raised an inquisitive eyebrow as he wondered what was going on that Peters would ask about his civilian employment. “Yes, sir. Private investigations is half of what I do in the civilian sector. Why do you ask?” Carson nodded at the response, “The reason I ask… is that we have an issue which requires immediate attention and I’d like to enlist your help. Let me catch you up on what I know so far. The pirate attack left us with a prisoner, who is currently under Medical detention due to, ah, unfortunate circumstances during their interrogation. When this prisoner was detained, we found information on their person which originated from this base.” As Peters spoke, Tamblyn knew about the skirmish with the pirates. He even knew one of the ones that had been killed, but he didn’t know anything about the one that had been captured except that he was injured and in sickbay. Other than experience to help focus and assist the investigating officer, Charles wasn’t really sure what the acting security chief was wanting from him. Tamblyn motioned for the ensign to continue with what he was saying. “So, it seems that either we have a traitor on the base or an entrepreneurial spirit which is selling confidential information to the highest bidder. Either way, we need this person or persons found.” Carson pulled over a padd with the information on the encrypted communications and handed it to the Chief Petty Officer before continuing, “This morning when clearing through the unauthorized communication list, I came across one which concerns me. Everything about it is either unknown or encrypted several times, the person who initiated the call has used VPN protocols to route it through several terminals on the base as to hide where the call originates from. In the past 20 minutes, I’ve asked the computer to search back and look for similar communications over the past few days and it’s come back with 3 similar matches.” Tamblyn’s wife, Anouk, was one of the better “Infiltration and Recovery Specialists” (not the best, but one of the better ones) in the Federation. She was even regularly contracted to test security systems for a variety of companies, of which Starfleet is not one. Otherwise, she will use her skills for sport to aggravate some of her friends. “Sir, my experience predominately consists of hunting down murderers, thieves, junkies, pirates, and bail jumpers; and doing some very questionable things to make the capture. So other than to help focus and assist the investigating officer. I am not sure what you are asking of me.” While he was talking, Tamblyn felt himself start to slip out of Starfleet non-commissioned officer and backslide into civilian bounty hunter. “I’ve called a meeting of the senior officers from both Security & Intelligence to set in place a closed-loop investigation in an effort to weed out this person. The reason I’ve called you in a little earlier is because I’d like you to work with whoever Intelligence sends over. I don’t entirely trust them, so I need someone with your experience to work with them on decrypting these communications and following the information you gain from them to the source.” Charles shifted in his chair and leaned toward Carson, “This next question needs to be just between the two of us and completely off the record.” (Reply Peters) Glancing at the clock on the wall and then back to the man he was addressing before dropping his question, “Just how far will I be allowed to go in order to get this individual? Do you have a preference on if he can talk or not when they are captured?” (Reply Peters) (Reply Peters) (Posted by Charles R.) (Mars Facilities - Landing Pad 1 – Medical/Counseling Officer, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice – 09:45) Qinna held tight to the med kit as she scanned the landing bay. She was not about to be late to this party. She stood to the side to get a look at who would show up. Being a bit of an introvert, she was accustomed to walk up and introduce herself. She waited to see if anyone was interested in talking to her. (Reply Any) (Played by Kris) (Mars Ground Facility, Landing Pad One, Runabout Delilah -- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 0955) He had arrived a few minutes early of course to greet those that were coming. The first arrival was a human male from security whom he was not familiar with. The man was sporting a phaser pistol on his belt. He was dark haired, of medium height and had a sober expression on his face. The man approached confidently. "Steven Hammons from security sir. Ensign Darpeg was called to an urgent meeting and sends his regrets... in a manner of speaking." "In a manner of speaking?" "Yes sir, I believe that was his intent. The words he used were actually something like, I will be unavailable and am sending you in my place." Sekal was aware that the man was using humor at the expense of his Vulcan superiors and shook his head slightly. "I do not believe you will be needing the phaser Mister Hammons." "With all due respect sir that is not your call. I answer to my superiors in the Security department and I am tasked with keeping you and the other members of the away team safe. I can't very well do that with a tricorder." He looked meaningfully at the unit that Sekal was carrying. "I am aware that science looks at things a lot like politicians do but I don't intend to be a statistic for another member of security who got disarmed then lost along with those under his protection." "Mister Hammons..." "I don't believe you heard me sir..." the security officer cut him off, "... if you wish to file a complaint with my superiors you are well within your right and I will certainly take the reprimand if I have one coming but the phaser stays. I fully intend to return to base in one piece if at all possible along with your party.." He returned Sekal's impassive look with an expression nearly as devoid of emotion. "Very well however it remains de-energized unless needed." "Phaser for dummies one zero one sir." The man quipped. "I don't plan on disintegrating my foot if at all possible." Before Sekal could answer the other members of the group began arriving. (Reply: Alyl, Solice, Trei, Verin) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Mars Facilities - Landing Pad 1 - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 09.57) She walked on to the landing pad and instantly felt the arrogance coming from Hammond. This was not of her concern at the moment so she walked further to meet the party. She asked what she was called in to do. "Reporting for duty. What am I summoned for sir?" (Reply Sekal, Hammond) (Posted by Edward) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Captain’s Quarters - Ensign JG Ire Williams and Ensign JG Ravok- 1000) Ire took the small chair by the small bunk that was in the back of the craft. He had been going since the engagement and had not stopped. Leaned back and placed his head against the metal bulkhead. He sighed softly to himself and he began to process what had happened. He glanced over at Ravok who was sleeping on the bunk and felt a pang of guilt about the injuries his friend had received. “Hay, my friend it's I am glad that you made it maybe next time don’t cut it so close.” Ravok opened his eyes and slid himself back onto the pillow he grunted in pain as he did. " I'm glad to see you alive Ire. How are you holding up ? Hows….Trip ? I'm so worried about him " Ravok asked Ire looked at Ravok as he made himself comfortable. “He’s doing okay, not gone crazy yet. For someone who is new to command he has done good. We are all heading home which is good and that we also got Alex out of the hulk that was her fighter was a bonus.” He smiled. “I’m okay really. Lost another fight but that’s another story” He grinned rubbing a hand through his hair. “Any way it was a close thing with you though. How are you feeling?” " I'm feeling great. Actually I'm gonna be sore for a few days. The dagger missed my heart and hit some connective tissues. " Ravok replied. " You are alive my friend . I consider that a fight well won I'm going to have alot of down time when I get back. Maybe we should get some drinks and celebrate this day " he said to Ire . Ire smiled. “It will be nice to get back and get a little time to relax but definitely need to celebrate the success of the mission. It would be great to get some drinks when we get back.” He grinned. “Are you sure that you should be consuming copious amount of alcohol in your condition?” Ravok laughed at Ire . " This is the perfect time. I need time to reflect plus my mother is gonna be there. She will want to have a few no doubt "Ravok stated “Your mother. What is she doing on Mars?”Ire asked him. " My mother took it upon herself to call in some old favors and get a contract with the Federation to work for them as a civilian specialist. Her job is too assist engineering on Mars, possibly on ship too . The Federation wants Mars as ready to go as soon as possible." Ravok replied . Ire smiled. “I guess she wants to keep an eye on you incase you go and do something stupid.” He indicated to Ravok’s chest. Ravok placed his hand on the right side of his stomach. " Our hearts are here , just about where a human liver would be ."he said to Ire with a laugh as he scratched his head " But if you happen to see a very friendly looking Klingon woman in the bar ….Stay away or she will make you drink all night ." “Duly noted no stabbing Ravok in the stomach.” Ire smiled “Sounds like an interesting woman and it might be nice to hear about your childhood. I wonder what a little Ravok was like.” " Well it's not as interesting as being raised by A.I. , but my mother always liked to keep me busy . A habit that she has beat into my head . I cant stand down time. I have to keep doing something. She would always chase me around the ship trying to get me to learn as much as I could about every little detail. But i was a child who had no friends . I had no one my age. We did have a holosuite though. It was small. I used to go in and pretend I was a great warrior. My mother tried showing me how to use a bat'leth. But she said I wasnt as good as her so she stopped showing me . Although I believe it was because my father didnt want me to be a warrior . He would constantly tell her " Your his step mother, a klingon. And he is a Romulan child not a klingon warrior . " but besides reading every thing I could , little Ravok spent his time helping my fathers crew. I remember the first time I stepped on a planet I was about 9 years old and I couldn't stop throwing up" Ravok said with a laugh. " It was horrible. I couldn't believe that people could live like that. The bajorans we were delivering to ran . I guess they thought I had come to Bajor bringing them some Romulan Death plague " He said with a smile as he stared off into the distance .. " Tell me about little Ire" Ravok said to Ire “Little Ire.” Ire smiled. “I lived every little body’s dream. I got to travel the galaxy on a space ship. Fighting bad guys and saving worlds in distress. Well that’s what I felt like we were doing.” “Then Geneva and the sub space river happen. I was on my way to Bajor on the Freebooster with my Aunt when we heard of the Roadrunner being classed as missing. She decided that I would stay with her rather than go to live with family on Bajor or Earth that I did not know.” “So there she was totally in charge of a 10 year old and no idea what to do. So she rapidly downloads information about child care from ever source she could find. In the beginning it was bazaar I can tell you. She realised that I needed company so she decided that I would have crew that I could interact. She loved old classic earth movies so she would become a different person each day from Mary Poppins to Elinor Riply unless it was school then she was also my teachers. So she would became a Vulcan for math and science, a Selki got swimming, She was an El-autism for history and she would run the historical events like we were there. Kirk and the Gorn, Wolf 359, The attacks on Deep Space 9, Voyager saga. also a Klingon warrior for physical exercise and when I was bad.There is nothing more scary that an enraged Klingon warrior charging towards you I can tell you.” “Well maybe you can.” “The ship had holo emitters on all decks so it basically became a very large holodeck.” " Sounds awesome . Better than securing cargo and checking it for radiation " Ravok replied “We also went ground side. She had some kind of compact armoured mobile emitter so she could leave the ship and she would take me with her.” He smiled. “Was very bad at getting up in the mornings. She would put the lights on full and play Klingon pain chants at full blast until I got up or the Klingon would come storming in to throw me out of bed. She once reduced the gravity over the course of an few hours so that I was floating above my bunk and she would then slam on the gravity as I dropped onto the floor. That was a scary start to the day that’s for sure but it was not just school and unusual punishment. We would explore the shipping routes, she would sometimes let me fly. If we had non perishable or non time critical cargo we would go the longer way round and see what was out there.” Ravok started laughing very hard " I'm sorry , I'm sorry but I just pictured my mother doing the same thing . Except mine was a Real klingon who would roar at me to wake up so I could fix a power junction. Help her tear apart some Bypass conduit and replace it with a newer one . "Ravok said " how did you feel your first time walking on a planet ? " he asked Ire Ire smiled “You mother might have been real but it did wonders for my cardio I can tell you.” He paused and thought for a moment. “No ceiling and how vast everything was the ability to see for miles in any direction without having an observation port or a view screen to get in the way. I did feel a bit agoraphobic at the start but I got used to it which is strange as I have not problem when I am out in a EVA suit. What about you?” " Well when I threw up . It was because the clouds were moving and I swear I could feel the planet spinning. I transported right back to the ship and hid in a corner "he said to Ire " It most certainly wasnt my proudest moment " he said with a smile . Ire grinned. “I am sure it was not as bad as you remember and also going planet side for people who spend their time in space is going to be hard, just like it's difficult for people on planets living in space. It's all about adaptation which is never easy.” Ravok nodded his head " at least we have that in common "Ravok replied “That and the fact that were are both crazy arsed pilots who thought it would be a good idea to strap ourselves into crafts no bigger than a runabout to go and attack starships. Rather then be flying those same said starships.” He grinned knowing he won’t want to be anywhere else. “Do you ever wish you had chosen big ships rather then fighters?” " To be honest I would pilot anything. The first time I was at the helm I was 8 years old . My father let me pull the ship out of a space dock in manual. I felt the raw power of that ship run through my body. I knew right there and then I wanted be a pilot ." Ravok replied “My parents were both Surgeons and they both guess that they were expecting me to follow them down the same path. They were a bit surprised that I wanted to fly rather then go up to my elbows in someone's abdomen but some of that have rubbed off as I took a major in medicine as you never know when that may come in handy.” Ravok thought about his father as he listened to Ire.~ Did he make it to Vorta Vor ? ~ "I am sure your parents would be extremely proud of you . You are an officer and graduated in the top of our class. " Ravok said to him. Ire shrugged. “Thanks. I hope so too. Aunty Colridge was happy but I think she misses having me on board.” He knew that she was on a cargo run but hoped to catch her when she passed though again. “What about your parents were they happy when you joined Star fleet?” "My father had hoped that I'd enter into the family business. Have my own freighter. My step mother was a afraid for me . When I got accepted into starfleet I could see the fear in her eyes. She told me it was because I would be the first Romulan to go and that no one would trust me. She was afraid at how I would be treated. " he said to Ire with a sigh " My father said the proudest day of his life was watching me graduate and seeing me in an officers uniform." Ravok said as he paused. "Its only been just over two weeks. Since I last saw him. I thought for sure I'd see him again. Funny how things work out "Ravok said as he looked down at his hands. Ire nodded and smiled sadly as he rested his hand on Ravok’s shoulder. “I know what you mean. I was only supposed to go to Bajor for the holidays and I would see them all in a few weeks.” He paused focusing his mind back. ~You are here for him~ “From what you said your father was proud of you becoming an officer and would still be proud of you as an officer.” “Especially that you joined Starfleet at the beginning of its re-growth.” Ravok patted Ires hand as it was on his shoulder " We will continue to make them all proud. " he said to Ire Ravok looked around the room and said " you know what I'm not gonna let them carry me like some wounded animal" Ravok shifted into a sitting position and placed his feet on the floor. Holding his side he started to get up. Ire moved forward to help know too well that stopping Ravok when he wanted to do something was not always a good idea. “Wow Ravok take it easy you maybe Romulan but you are not superhuman. Being stabbed is not something to just shrug off.” He allowed Ire to help him to his feet. Ravok grunted and shook in pain as he stood. His face turning green in frustration, but Ravok made it to his feet. And stood there "The EMH stopped the internal bleeding ….baby steps" Ravom said as he took a few steps. With Ire there for support. " you broke some ribs and you were fine, besides I am walking off this ship with my friends...Hail the conquering heros" he said with a smile. " Trip will probably have me stunned and knocked unconscious, but I need to do this" he said as he held his side with his right hand . Ire gave him a hand. “Baby steps to the replicator okay.” As he maneuvered his way out of the small room he looked at Ravok and grinned. “You really are a crazy Romulan.” (Reply any on board) ( posted by Robbie and Davis) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Cockpit - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams and FSO Ensign Ire Williams - 1230) Trip sat in the cockpit with Ire. The squadron was making good time, and it looked like they were going to arrive around 1800 hours which was Trip had planned. He had spent the last hour keeping Ire company in the cockpit while Ire was at the helm. “And then, and then poor Tommy Connicky, I swear he has the worst luck, he calls Dr. Bracken an Ice Queen or Ice Hearted bitch or something like that and I hit him so hard in the face his nose broke. Man high school was weird.” Ire smiled as he kept one eye one the console in front of him, making sure that the God of War was staying in formation with the other craft. “Sounds like you had an interesting time. My schooling was from the crew which was fascinating as they were all slightly different. Some were stern but fair, some were kind and others were a little crazy. I remember spending time crawling through jeffriess tubes with the chief engineer a man called Kenneth Smith. New the ship like the back of his hand he would show me the most bizarre parts of the ship like the little viewport on the ventral sensor array or the deuterium storage tanks. It gave me a good knowledge about starships and I think he was a little disappointed when I found my love was flying rather then engineering.” He gave a smile. “What made you want to first learn to fly?” “I used to go flying as a kid with my grandpa. He had an old shuttlecraft at the ranch, and I mean old, like 2265 old. And he and my dad and worked on it and fixed it up, and we would fly it around the ranch, and by the time I was 14, I’d take the shuttle out on joy rides. I ummm, don’t tell anyone this, but I lost my virginity in the back of that shuttle.” Trip laughed, “Picnic, gone terribly right or wrong depending on how you look at it.” Ire smiled. “Well that is definitely one way to enjoy your joy ride.” “Flying was just so freeing, and fun, and I wanted to stay away from engineering, my dad is an engineer, and I wanted to avoid the comparisons. But flying man, you can go anywhere.” Ire nodded and had a slight far away look in his eyes. “Totally. The ability to just go off a see somewhere new or different. Not always going the normal routes taking the path less traveled so see what’s there. That is why I enjoy Lightship sailing. It's not fast by any means but the journey is almost as fun as the destination.” "Flying is a metaphor for life. Don't know how but it is. How you holding up by the way. You evaced yourself into space at one point. How are you feeling?" Ire shrugged. “It's Greta Smith my flight officer I am more worried about. I grew up on a starship with two parents who understood the dangers outside the hull. I was almost able to zero-g before I could walk and then with my Aunt I have spent a lot of time out in the black. I have a few aches and pains and will feel sore tomorrow but nothing I have not had before.” He smiled. “If I had not gone into flying I would have been a zero-g specialist but Greta was unprepared and it might have shaken her a bit. I’ll get a drink with her when we get back and see how she is. I think is was her first one outside of training and it can shake people a bit.” “Well, I haven’t either, but I guess I don’t need to...It’s hard, I don’t know what the best way to lead this team is. I don’t know if it is better to be commanding it from the frontline, in a fighter, or to be here, on a command ship, directing traffic. It’s not fair that I’m at the back of the skirmish while all of you are risking your lives. I know the other guys think I was in the right spot, but what do you think? Ire paused thinking about what to say. “It's complicated. You need to be where you can see the whole situation especially as we have no carrier. Which meant that you needed to be somewhere that you can process all the data and act on it.” “In saying that you were spot on back there when you were directing from the God of War but it also made you a massive target and if you had been taken out it would have been disastrous. Being in a fighter would have given you better cover but made you more vulnerable like the rest but you would have to fly.” “It’s just hard man, I don’t know where I’m more useful..” Trip smiled, “Are you sure you don’t want to do this? Commander Ire Williams, has a nice ring to it.” Ire laughed. “What with my track record with ships I don’t think so. I want to be a pilot and fly.. You will find a style that works best for you where it's doing command and control from the God of War or from a fighter. You just have to make sure that you are happy with your decision and not worry about what anyone else thinks. You made the good calls. We are all here and the enemy is dead you should be proud of yourself.” “Well, you’re lucky Ire, that we live in a post money society, otherwise, I’d be making you pay for those fighters. At this rate, we’re going to need to develop an Ire proof fighter.” Ire blushed a bit. “Well Greta said that I have another 11 to go but I am going to need a new craft and I think that I need to find one that might be able to servive me. Also Lucky Ire that makes me sound like some charm or trinket they you ward off evil spirits.” “Hey don’t knock trinkets, I have a lucky dragon in my pocket…” Trip paused, “That sounded wrong. What I mean is that I have a little figurine of a dragon in my pocket, I bring it everywhere. Luck is what we make it, but why not bring a boost right?” “Ire. I need you to do something for me, make me a promise.” “Of course anything?” He said without hesitation. “I need you to step up out there, you have potential, but I need someone out there with a good head out there, to be an emotional core when I can’t, to inspire the pilots when I’m playing quarterback. Are you familiar with the old earth game of Football, not the one with the circular ball, the fun one with helmets and where you don’t really use your feet.” “Yes I had a couple of games at the academy. I understand the principles but its not my game” “I need you to be my clutch tight end out there. Look Ravok is a great pilot, but he can be cocky, over confident, and emotional. He’s a good, solid dude, but he’s like a running back, you know, you give him the ball, and he will make magic happen, but sometimes, he just, he uses instinct, not brain, and it can go wrong, he might miss an open hole, because he thinks he can bowl over a linebacker. He’s great when someone else is directing traffic, and he delegates well, but I think he is over confident in his abilities. Correct me if I am wrong here.” “No you are right he is good but some pointing him in the right direction, let him go and he will get his target.” “Then there is Alex,” Trip took a deep breath. “She knows what she is doing, she’s impressive, she’s a force of nature out there.” Ire hid a smile and nodded. “But she’s a linebacker, she's a battering ram. Linebackers, they’re kind of like the captain of the defense, they go in and they take things out. She’s all business, she’s cerebral about it, but she’s not...How do I put this, she is best in her element when she can focus and do what needs to be done. We can’t function without her, but she’s not what the only thing I need ...out there.” Ire noddd. “Totally just see how she took out the Pioneer. It was spectacular and ballsy but got the job done with minimum of risk to anyone else apart from herself. ” “I need a tight end, someone who can stick black and block when needed, be there to protect, but then go out and catch a pass if they nood, and someone who knows when they need to do it. I need some who can take my orders and put them into effect, while also being level headed enough to use prudence and know how to work with people. Can inspire on the battlefield, when I can’t. Someone to take my vision and help make sense of it.” ~Ow Trip you really in the poo if you think I am that good~ He pulled his sarcastic remark back and nodded. ~Ire he trust you so get off your backside and help him out~ “I understand.” “I love Alex……” Trip paused and tried to catch himself, “And I love Ravok, and I love you, we’re family. But I need those two where they are at. I need Alex taking point and blowing the shit out of things, destroying enemy offense. I need Ravok where he is, taking the hand off, and doing spectacular things, not needing to think, just act, react, and score. I need you to bridge the gap between those two, be the morale center out there, make sure that Alex isn’t over exerted and Ravok is sticking to the play. You’re my tight end, block and catch, keep the mission safe, and react when you need to. All of you are going to be great leaders. I don’t know who the Admiral will appoint as a number two.” He understood what Trip was saying saying but not sure how to act on it.. “That makes sense.” “So stop being reckless, and don’t lose anymore ships. We can’t have you getting the reputation of crashing everything. Yes you had to escape or you would have died. Ire, you need to find your swagger and your confidence, and own it. I’m strong as an ox, I get my confidence knowing that I work my ass off to make things happen, Ravok’s confidence comes from his cockyness. Alex’s confidence comes from her tough exterior, and strength of heart. You need to find the thing that makes you say, ‘To hell with all of you, I can do this,’ Ire, you are a sweet and sensitive soul, everyone here thinks you’re great, we expect great things from you, but you are too passive.” He sighed a little. “I just don’t have that kind of drive. I am not as cocky as Ravok or as tough as Alex.” “I need you to help me keep everyone alive.” It was like being slapped in the face by a shuttle as realisation dawned on him. ~There you have it. Keep them alive. What was it dad used to say when he was working on the SS Hepburn doing Search and Rescue Sic Vivant, Ut Alii. So others may live~ He looked at Trip with determination and nodded “That I can definitely do Trip. You can count on me to keep everyone alive.” He nodded again. “I can make sure that me and the Void Haunter’s are where we are needed to back everyone up but I can only be in so many places at once. Give me the drones and I can be in six more places watching people backs six more times.” "I don't want them plugged into your skull. Ire it's too risky. Too dangerous. I'm sorry but I need your mind in the game not possibly getting zapped by feedback." “It’s not like they are untested teck they had been in use for years and in actual combat. They were proven track record to be an advantageous force multiplier. I have been practicing with them on Mars, I can fly them and I am able to do it with all six simultaneously. I understand my role in the wing, you have given me the reason for being here. I would not risk that if I did not think that I could use the drones to help keep everyone safe.” “Trip I can do this.” "Ire, it's one thing controlling them from the Eclipse, but jacking them into your brain. It's too risky. What if your brain gets fried in combat." “I jack myself into the fighter every time I fly. I have been doing it since before the academy flight training. There is always a risk but I will be using computer guidance like I do when I fly the fighters or the Eclipse there is a built in protection to stop the user getting fried and if the link does break then the drones will attach themselves to the closest friendly unit as act as escort.” "I just don't know Ire, convince me." Ire paused for a moment realising that if he got this wrong he would not get another chance. “Okay. So I fly the ship by the use of my micro data port which is connected from the base of my skull to the fighter by a jack cable. This interns connects me to the fighters computer which then means that I can control the fighter. The drones link to the fighter via a highly encrypted subspace date link which gives me access to the drones. This link rotates it frequency thousands of times a millisecond which means that it is almost un hack able. The fighters computer is in constant connection with the drones they both verify the secure link at each end. My mind is protected a three layer system. The first is the link anything goes wrong from either end it shuts off and tries to establish a connection on a different frequency. The second is an isolated unit which is physically air gapped from the fighters computer but can still really the encrypted data between the drones, the fighters computer and me and the third is a cut of circuit in the jack which will sever all connection to the fighter and the drones.” “Controlling the drones is like the old fighter sims on the holodeck. I command them to perform functions like flying in formation or designate a target or protect a team mate. The drones on board computer takes my request and uses its set parameters to follow my instructions. I can take control of them individually but they also have a swarm logic which which means they work better in groups. I can also upload the mission parameters into their systems which gives them more autonomy when things go sideways but choices are always made through me.” "Can it be hacked?" “Well anything can be hacked given enough time but the answer is yes it can but the chances are so infetesinable small that it's almost not worth counting. Also the drones, the fighters computer, the isolation unit and my jack link are all scanned and checked for security breaches and malware at the end of every flight and security upgrade are installed before that are flown again.” "I don't know Ire, it just seems." Trip stopped. If he was willing to trust Ire to carry out his vision out there, he was going to have to trust Ire to know his limits. "I don't understand it, I don't get it. But I'll approve it. But if you fry your brain, I reserve the right to tell you I told you so." Ire gave a slight smile. “Don’t worry, I am sure you will as will my Aunty who will come and put my brain back together again just to tell me off.” He had no doubt that Colridge would make her displeasure very well known. “If I approve this, I need three things. A written recommendation from an engineer, a scientist, and a doctor that this is structurally, scientifically, and medically sound it may be your choice and your life, but if I approve this and you die, your death is on my hands. Does that make sense?” Ire nodded. “Understood.” “Good, how bout some music.” Trip then pressed a few buttons and the cockpit’s speaker’s came alive with metal riffs of the Klingon rock band known as Bloodwine. “Song is called Sto’vo’kor, it's about brave warriors who go to battle and each one persishes in battle, and they each ponder what they think Klingon heaven is like before they died. Interesting stuff.” Ire gave a small chuckle at the change of topic and listened to the music. “It's good to know that Klingon music has strong recurring themes through it.” “All I know is this Ire, one simple reality, whenever the time comes, where the great god of war Mars himself, calls us silly pilots home, that day, that fateful day, hopefully many decades from now. That day will truly be a good day to die.” (reply none) (posted by Will and Robbie) (Captain's Yacht, God of War - Cockpit - aFSXO Ensign JG Trip Williams -1800) As the Fighter squadron came into view of Mars, there was a feeling of relief in the heart of Trip Williams. It had been a long day, or was it days at this point. They had been away from Mars for around 33 hours. Trip could tell that fatigue was setting in amongst those on the God of War and he was running out of stories to tell to keep people from succumbing to boredom. But they were almost home, and he had given everyone who took part in the mission a mandatory day off, in addition to their regularly scheduled one. 33 hours of mission time, even if there were opportunities to sleep, was a bit of a bear and if he learned anything from the class on Team Management at the Academy it was that burn out was a thing. If anything Trip was feeling burnt out himself. On the bright side, with the mandatory day off and his regularly scheduled one being on back to back days, he would have plenty of time to rest, make it up to his sister, and explore Mars with Alex. He had a whole series of event planned for when the God of War landed. First he would make sure that Ravok was taken to sick bay. Then he was going to give his mission debrief to the Admiral. He was going to follow that by giving his sister a huge hug, and asking her about Lynn. The moment he got in range of the planet, the moment he could feel his sister again, he knew that she finally was honest. ~Good for you Sis~. Then he was gonna take a hot shower, make some dinner, sleep for 12 hours, and take Alex out on a trip into town. There was a lovely park near an artificial lake, and it seemed like a great place for a picnic. They were in a good place. He had asked her to ride back on the God of War, one because she needed a ship, and two because 16 hours was a good time to talk. They were going to take it easy, but they were going to officially date. Somewhere in the last four hours, when Trip's guilt was getting the better of him and he needed to tell the Admiral. So they went back and forth on who would request to transfer. He had originally denied the transfer, but then they reconsidered. There was an open position or two in Ops on the Starbase and Alex felt like that might be a good fit for her. She had filled out a transfer request and Trip was going to file it when he met with the admiral. Different department would solve that problem. Trip was at peace. Things looked like, to quote a late 20th, early 21st century animated television program, that they were all coming up Millhouse. As the God of War passed by the Starbase to make it's final descent, Trip opened a hailing channel. "Mars Base, this is the God of War, we are preparing to make our final descent, please have hangars One and Two open at Mars Base for our arrival. Please advise Engineering crews we are bringing in some damaged bird, and please arrange for a medical team on Standy, we have one critically wounded but stable, and quite a few of us who are banged up." (reply any in Station Ops if you want) "Roger that, thank you Mars Base." Trip smiled as the God of War entered the Martian Atmosphere, and then all hell broke loose. Almost as if on clockwork, the moment the God of War was mere moments from the base, preparing for a smooth landing, a small conduit in the aft section began to spark. Ensign Petrova was nearest when it exploded, burning her, slamming her into the ground with a hard thud head first. A fire began to Spread quickly in the craft as it became hard to maintain control. "Mayday, Mayday," Trip put out via the hailing frequency, "This is the God of War, I'm preparing for an emergency beamout, there has been an explosion in the aft section. I've lost control of her. Send Med teams ASAP." As he was speaking PO Rix quickly activated the emergency transporter, diverting all remaining power to those systems to that they would work. As the God of War then exploded mid air, a sad sight amidst the returning members of the Flight Team victorious from battle. It seemed to be the only craft that had encountered any sort of malfunction. Trip and the personnel aboard the God of War materialized inside the hangar. He was fine, as was PO Rix. Chief Taris looked as if she had broken her arm, and Ire and Ravok seemed to be ok. But lying still on the ground was Alex. She looked to be burned from the explosion, a gash on her head. He ran to her as quickly as he could, sliding when he got close. He quickly took his fingers to her neck checking for a pulse. She was still alive. Her heart still beating, but he knew the next few hours would be critical. "Medic, quick, I need a medic!" He yelled. What was supposed to be a festive homecoming had now turned into a possible tragedy. ::Sy, Sy, can you hear me, I'm home, the ship I was on exploded, I'm alive, sis, don't worry I'm alive. Alex may not make it. She's critical, Sy, I don't know what is going to happen.:: (Reply Sienna) Trip then looked up as the remaining craft began to land, people running to the group of six that had beamed from the God of War, chaos all around. He had planned a near perfect mission...and it was, until right at the very end. (Reply someone in Ops if they want, reply anyone who wants to react to the destruction of the God of War, Reply Ire, Ravok, Sienna, medical personnel, really anyone who wants to be on the scene of the "accidental" explosion) (Posted by Will Banowsky) (Mars Base, Sec/Tac Ensign Taya, 1801) After the pirate attack on the freighter that was coming to Mars, security had implemented a more strict and diligent procedure to do sensor sweeps of sector 001, so when the fighters were almost back, Taya went outside to watch them, bringing a pair of binoculars with her. She had also tapped into the main base comm channel, eager for any news about the personnel. The initial report came in from Trip Williams. "Mars base, this is the God of War. We are preparing to make our final descent. Please have hangars one and two open at Mars base for our arrival. Please advise engineering crews we are bringing in some damaged bird, and please arrange for a medical team on standby. We have one critically wounded but stable, and quite a few of us who are banged up." Taya let out a sigh of relief. Based on what Trip said and the tone of his voice, though exhausted, sounded like they hadn't lost anyone. Perhaps the clan blessing she recited when they left, helped in some small way. She was about to go back inside, when she saw something that didn't seem right. One of the ships, not a Peregrine, appeared to be vibrating. They were still high in the sky, so Taya couldn't tell for sure, but the descent just looked off. As it got closer, she could see there was definitely something wrong. "Mayday! Mayday! This is the God of War." It was Trip again. "I'm preparing for an emergency beam out. There has been an explosion in the aft section. I've lost control of her. Send med teams, ASAP." Taya swore in Andorian. After a few moments, the God of War burst apart, the sound of the explosion taking a few seconds to reach her ears. Debris flew in all directions, with dozens of smoky trails plummeting towards the ground. Taya was thankful the landing path was over uninhabited ground. Taya began running towards the hanger bays. When she arrived, medical people were already there, having beamed in. A crowd of ground personnel were gathering around, so Taya attempted to move them back. "Please stay back and give them room to work." The people were concerned, and she understood, but she had to maintain order. There was time later to ask what happened. (reply any) (posted by Rob B.) (Mars ground facilty - hanger bay - Ensign JG Ravok-1803) A loud explosion let loose through the ship. Ravok who was sitting in a chair was thrown to the ground . The next thing he knew he was in the hangar bay still laying on the floor . He had been transported to safety. He looked around in panic his Romulan ears still ringing his body in intense pain. He spotted Ire in the confusion . It was mayhem. His eyes glared through the panic it was all in slow motion to him . His hearing slowly returned to hear people shouting out for help. His eyes became fixated on a horrible sit , It was Ensign Petrova she was badly wounded and laying on the ground a few meters from him. He saw Trip running to her in a panic. .... Ravok gathered all the strength he had and stumbled to his feet and began limping over to them as quick as possible. Ignoring the pain overcome with adrenaline " ALEX!!" He yelled out . Ravok made his way to Trip and Alex and fell to his knees. His left arm was bracing him up while his right hand was holding his side . He was horrified by the site before him. He was helpless to save his friend. Ravok watched medical storm the hangar and head their way . ( reply anyone who wants in on the action, Trip, Ire, medical, engineering, anyone ) (Posted by Davis) (Mars ground facilty - hanger bay - Pilot - Ensign JG Ire Williams-1804) Ire materialised in the hanger bay. ~What the hell that’s three ships in five days. This is not funny~ He glanced over to see Greta beside him. He had come to visit her so that they could go to sickbay and get checked out from the emergency decompression. Now he was on the floor of the hanger bay with the ring of an explosion sounding in his ears. "Medic, quick, I need a medic!" His head snapped around to see Trip leaning over someone in a flight suit and glanced over at Greta who indicated that she was okay. He nodded to her in response as he stood on wobbly feet and began to stagger towards Trip. People were screaming and yelling all around him but all he could focus on with Trip. He was Ravok off to one side also move towards Trip. ~Thank goodness Ravok is okay~ “Alex.” Ire felt like his veins had turned to ice as Ravok’s word registered and he realised who Trip was hunched over. ~NO, NO, NO not Alex~ His staggering path became straight as he put on a burst of speed as desperation and panic began to rise. He came up beside Ravok who had gotten to Trip and Alex a few seconds before him and paused as he saw the state of Alex. ~Come on Ire not now. You’re the medic remember what mum and dad taught you. You can’t help her if you fall apart now, so you need to start treating her. Get your feelings in check if you freak out she is dead. You can deal with it later but not now Alex needs you. You are a professional, so act like one~ He took a deep breath forcing his emotions into a box marked Alex for later as he knelt beside Trip and Ravok. He gently moved Trip to one side just enough to get access to Alex and spoke calmly and reassuringly to Trip. “Trip let me work.” ~I need you to help me keep everyone alive~ Trip’s words only hours ago echoed in his mind. ~Alive Ire, Alex must be Alive~ “Its okay Trip I'll keep her alive.” He looked down at Alex, slamming the lid on the box in his mind as he got to work. ~OK observation, GO~ He began a visual scan of Alex making sure he did not miss anything. ~Burns, head injury~ He fingers snaked out to feel her pulse as he examined her for any other signs of injury ~Breathing but there is burns to the airway, she has a pulse, the head injury looks a lot nastier thought probably could be damage deep, we need help fast~ He tapped his commbadge. “Ensign Williams to Medical.” (Reply Medical) “Medical Emergency in the hanger bay we have wounded from the God of War. I need a site to site transport of one critical. Its Ensign Petrova, she has extensive burns on her upper torso, head and arms. She has deep skull laceration, skull fracture with traumatic brain injury suspected. She has an airway which is unstable, and I can get a pulse but its weak.” ~Come on Alex hang in there. You are strong I know you can~ (Reply Medical) ( reply anyone who wants in on the action, Trip, Ravok, medical, engineering, anyone ) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Base, Science Annex - Arboretum - SO, Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin, 1805) Sienna had calmed visibly once Trip's fighters were back within sensing distance of the Base. She had returned from the Mystique and found herself directing the enlisted personnel is eradicating the invasive species in the Arboretum, then helping with the sterilization of the soil. It would be a multi day project done in stages, and she was learning how to delegate and plan a huge project, one of the senior enlisted officers helping her to figure out how to allocate the appropriate amount of personnel and what a realistic time frame would be to accomplish this, since issues that cost time were inevitable, especially in a project this complex. It was her senior academy thesis, writ large. As she sat with Petty Officer Giana Yuslova, Sy gripped her head from the intense mental pain that suddenly assailed her. Giana was concerned, touching Sy on the shoulder, "Do we need to call the medical?" She asked, pulling her tricorder and scanning Sienna quickly. All of the people who worked regularly with Sy had received a memo on dealing with the young botanist. "N-no. It's my twin." She got out, tears streaming down her face. ::Sy, Sy, can you hear me, I'm home, the ship I was on exploded, I'm alive, sis, don't worry I'm alive. Alex may not make it. She's critical, Sy, I don't know what is going to happen.:: Trip's voice was amplified by distance, emotions, adrenaline and pain. ::Breathe, Trip. I'm here.:: She sent back, reaching for the calm center that her mother had spent so long instilling in her. Sy hit her comm badge, "Sickbay, something's happened with the fighters, an explosion.." Someone in medical took the time to tell Sienna that Dr. Bracken was on her way and so were others. Sy rested her aching head in her hands, unaware she was crying. She had -known- something like this was going to happen and her twin had shut her out rather than let her help calm him down. She had tried to warn her. She sensed Sekal near her and looked up at him, "My twin, Ensign Williams was just involved in an explosion. The yacht, God of War, exploded on approach to the Base. That was the shaking we felt. I do not know anything else, the rat..uh.." She quickly revised the phrase she was going to use, "He blocked me out. I called sickbay but they were already on their way. There is nothing I can do." She bit her bottom lip. Sy glanced over at Chief Yuslova who was looking nervous, guilty and defiant. Sy was getting slightly annoyed however that the entire science department was taking the job of babysitting her very seriously. Sy indicated the spot next to her at the makeshift table that was made out of an abandoned wooden spool turned on it's side. "Sit down, we may as well discuss the numbers - Chief Yuslova has been helping me figure out the numbers. I've never commanded this many people before, and apparently projects don't scale well in size." She tried to make it a joke, but the humor fell flat as pain lanced across her psyche as Trip's attempts to shield her out failed. Sy looked at the wall for a moment, her eyes dilating as she 'saw' through her twin's eyes for a moment, then deliberately built better shielding against him. Ensign Sekal was speaking and Sy tuned back into him, "I'm sorry, could you repeat that? I was staring down at Ensign Petrova's burned body for a moment." (reply the not-saleke :-) (posted by Mel) (Mars Base, Triage, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 1806) Ailynn’s blood went cold when the call came through. She understood the necessity for these missions, but there was always the risk of catastrophic injury. She turned to Chief Miller on the desk and called out to her over the background noise. “Standby Trauma teams. Clear Rescus room. Make ready Surgical bays 1 and 2. Medical Emergency. Page duty crash teams. Beam direct to the Hanger.” (Reply Miller) She turned again, and started to run toward the nearby storage, where the new medkits were stored, alongside the more nonstandard rescusitation kit. Chief Carter came striding out of a nearby room, and grabbed a medkit and Rescus bag, and fell in to Ailynn’s side. “Computer. Emergency beam out. 2 to the Hanger.” (Mar Base, Science Annex - aACSO's Office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 1807) Sekal had just finished completing a transmission to the quartermaster on Earth which he had initiated after returning to the surface this morning. There was a voluminous amount of data to go over regarding Luma'Lenai and the entity's relationship with the Mystique not to mention data they had brought back on technical matters concerning formerly deleted details on the construction of Akira Class components. His working theory was that this information would be helpful not only in fabricating components for the repair of that ship but could be translated into a useful foundation for rebuilding much of what the base required in the way of refit because of components stripped by the Andorians during "The Purge". Much of this data would have to be gone through and that which was relevant to the engineering department passed along to that group. He brought the beginning files upon the monitor and was beginning to peruse it when his combadge initiated. =^= Chief Sekal this is Petty Officer Yuslova with a report on Ensign Verin.=^= That got his immediate attention. Due to Sienna Verin's recent medical difficulties he had made it standing orders among the staff that she be accompanied and watched during the performance of her duties. This not only gave her needed additional help owing to the workload of returning her portion of the facilities to full operation but guaranteed that in case of a relapse there would be someone with immediate knowledge should she require medical attention. She had resisted at first the notion of him 'spying' on her but had given in when it became apparent that he had no intention of relenting on the decision and had received assurances that the situation was only temporary. While Medical had given her clearance to return to duty the order would stand for an additional three days, if there was no relapse then it would be rescinded. In all actuality it was akin to light duty since the physical burden had been lifted and her duties consisted primarily of directing the staff. "Continue Petty Officer." =^= You told us to watch for any signs of pain or emotional instability. It looks like she just had one hell of a migraine then called sickbay about the shaking we felt out here and mentioned her brother. She's currently 'zoned out' in the corner. She said it had something to do with an explosion that rattled the Arboretum.=^= "I am on my way, Sekal out." There had been no hint of the explosion within the annex that he had noted and if there had been a general call about the returning fighters it had been missed during his attempt to acquire needed parts and spares despite the run around and stone-walling he had been put through. He picked up the tricorder from the desk before leaving his office. (Mars Base, Hanger, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 1807) Seeing the chaos, that thankfully Security were now calming down and getting control of, Ailynn and Chief Carter ran the rest of the way to the scene. She’s seen other medics appear behind her, but in the moment hadn’t noticed who they were. “Take Ravok, I’ll take Petrova.” (Reply any Medic) Ailynn’s heart skipped a beat when she saw the condition that Alex was in. Carter was already checking vitals. “Pulse weak, breathing…no breathing.” “Check Airway.” Carter lifted the chin and opened Alex’s mouth, to straighten the airway. “Negative. No change. Possible blistering. On the Trachea.” “intubate. Put in a line. Crossmatch 5 units, make them ready in Surgical 1” Ailynn called out as she scanned. Carter was already in the rescus bag and pulled out a tube that would be pushed down the throat to open the airway. She'd made the decision to switch her ongoing treatment into Surgical the second she saw the head injuries. A few seconds went by, “Carter…I need breathing. Pulse is fading…Can’t start resus if I haven’t got an airway.” “I can’t intubate, Airway’s blocked.” “Tracheotomy. Scalpel.” Ailynn held out her hand, and received the scalpel with a firm pass. “ready with suction, there could be fluid.” “Aye Sir” Ailynn placed the scalpel at the very base of Alex’s throat, making a deep incision two finger widths below the larynx. “Hitting cartilage rings, ready. Into trachea, suction, and get me a valve.” Suction was applied, clearing the hole so Ailynn could slide in a plug. “Balloon pump. Keep her breathing. Assistance!” she motioned to the new attendant to squeeze the balloon attached to the airway at a steady pace compared to their normal breathing. “We have a pulse!” “Well done. Keep pumping. Carter..” “Aye Sir.” Ailynn finished up her scans. What she saw, made her heart sink further. “Carter. Patient has a midbrain aneurism, plus intercranial haemorrhage around the base of the brainstem. She needs surgery. Ailynn continued, snapping off a diagnosis, thankful that she had such good staff to assist. “Inform Trauma team to attend Surgical 1, they have incoming, Fractured Skull and associated damage. Burns team on attendance too, they need to sort out her airway. Once their done I’ll go in an alleviate the pressure from the ICH. The aneurism needs specialist attention that we can’t yet safely do. I’ll clip it, to secure. After that she’ll need to go to SFMHQ” “Aye Sir. Duty teams notified, and assembling Trauma 1.” “Medical this is Bracken. Trauma case incoming Surgical 1. Emergency Medical Transport. Patient and Chief Carter to Transport.” Seconds later, they had gone. Ailynn stood up. She had a couple of calls to make, and someone to catch up with. (Reply None) (Posted by Mark) (Mars ground facilty - Engineering department - Civilan specialist engineer Kora -1807) Kora heard the announcement. And heard the explosion of the ship. Her thoughts were flooded with her son. She ran with others as fast as she could to the hangars. Not knowing what to expect. As she made her way into the hangar it was chaos. People running everywhere . She pushed people out of her way. Trying to see if her son had made it. She noticed security frantically trying to control the situation. Through the crowd she saw her son , Ensign Ravok . It had been a year since she had seen him in person , this certainly wasnt how she expected their reunion to be . She noticed he was in pain and holding his side.She pushed her way to through the crowd making her way towards her son. ( reply anyone , Ensign Taya ) ( posted by Davis) (Mar Base, Science Annex - Arboretum - aACSO, Ensign Sekal- 1811) He entered the Arboretum and strode toward the sound of PO Yuslova's voice. "Over here sir!" PO Yuslova was standing over Ensign Verin who was sitting on a wooden cabling spool, withdrawn into her own mind and with tears streaming down her face. The non-com had a tricorder in her hand which she passed to him as he came within reach. He began looking over the readings as she was speaking. "She's been like this since I called you sir." He gave a short nod then reset the device and resumed scanning, the readings were indicative of brain function commensurate with the use of her telepathic ability as he had surmised so he shut it off and watched her an instant before speaking. "Ensign Verin you are obviously in telepathic contact, is there any way in which I might assist?" She looked up at him then. "My twin, Ensign Williams was just involved in an explosion. The yacht, God of War, exploded on approach to the Base. That was the shaking we felt. I do not know anything else, the rat..uh.." She stopped as she searched for words. "He blocked me out. I called sickbay but they were already on their way. There is nothing I can do." He nodded but said nothing, only watching and listening with interest. "Sit down, we may as well discuss the numbers - Chief Yuslova has been helping me figure out the numbers. I've never commanded this many people before, and apparently projects don't scale well in size." "That is why you were given an aide during the operation Ensign." She had closed her eyes then opened then suddenly and addressed him. "I'm sorry, could you repeat that? I was staring down at Ensign Petrova's burned body for a moment." "I was stating Ensign that the size of the operation was one of the reasons you were given an aide during it. Petty Officer Yuslova has experience with such projects though on a smaller scale and I judged her able to use her knowledge to assist you in setting a viable foundation for the project." There had been casualties then which was unfortunate, being emotionally controlled made it much easier to deal with the stark realities of battle and the odds he had given the group of returning unscathed after the action had been small. (reply: Verin) "You said you have been in contact with your brother, I trust that he is well." (Reply: Verin) (Mars Facility – Admiral’s office - Admiral Remae Ktell and Ensign JG Trip Williams -1830) Trip was dreading this meeting. Not because the mission had been a failure, in fact the opposite was the truth. They took out the pirates, the Pioneer was destroyed, and for the most part, everyone came back in one piece. For the most part. The reality is the mission could have gone a lot better, it could have been worse, but it could have been better. Many of the fighters were damaged beyond repair, the God of War had been sabotaged and exploded as she entered into the Martian Atmosphere. Trip had managed to beam everyone to safety, but he was not fast enough. Alex was badly wounded and it was unknown if she would make it through the night. n. He was second guessing a lot of things, should he have taken more ships, was his strategy sound. He was also unsettled by the kamikaze nature of his foes. The mysterious message bothered him. Not to mention the undetected sabotage. ~We are Roanoke, who the hell is Roanoke?~ The clean up and med crews had taken care of the aftermath of the explosion and once he was sure his people would be cared for he made his way to go see the Admiral. His heart was racing, his stomach churning, he knew when he entered that office. There was something he needed to tell the Admiral, and he didn’t know what it would do to his career. If his sister was right, this could be the end of his command. It didn’t matter, it was his emotional connection to Alex that caused him to have her on the God of War. His desire to spend time with her may have cost her life. The Admiral was back at his desk and planning tomorrow’s meeting to brief the staff about the mission to Trill but in the meantime, the crews had returned and Remae had learned that aFSXO was on his way to explain the mission outcome to him. “Sir,” Trip said, entering the office. “I just wanted to debrief you sir. We managed to eliminate the Pirate threat. From what we can tell, they have all been defeated. If there were any survivors they will know and most likely spread on word that Sector 001 is defended. Which should sort of boost are reputation a bit. But from the looks of it, once they knew they were beaten, they all committed suicide or something like that. Once Pioneer was destroyed, the remaining ships all self destructed, even ships that were disabled did the same. There were two prisoners, and they had some subdermal device that fried their brains after we captured them. It’s like something or someone didn’t want anyone to be able to talk.” Remae took all this in, this was no long a simple case of pirates attacking because they were simple pirates, there was an intent here, someone was planning these raids, and they didn’t want to be exposed. “There is one more odd thing. Upon the destruction of the Pioneer and the remaining ships self destructed, we received an odd message coming from the exploding ships on multiple channels. A warning ‘This is not the end, We are Roanoke, and we’ve only just begun’. I don’t know what it means, but if you would like I can pass that on to the intelligence team and they can deal with it.” “Roanoke?”, that rang a bell for the Admiral but he put it aside for now, he would consult the computer later on, “I will pass that and see what they turn up.”, he said and waited for the office to continue. “We lost a number of fighters sir, but no loss of life yet. Some are worse for wear, but everyone returned home. The squad performed well, sir, but I just feel uneasy about the whole thing. Maybe I just expected a flawless victory. But we did it. I want to commend my core team as well sir, Ensign Ire Williams, Ensign Ravok Shara, Ensign Alexandra Petrova. I don’t know if there is some commendation I’m allowed to give as the acting head of the Squadron, but if there is I’d give it to them. They all performed satisfactorily, exceeding my expectations. I think all of them have the ability to develop into excellent leaders. Though Ensign Petrova is in critical condition. The God of War was sabotaged, not sure why it didn’t go off during the fight, maybe the Ship was just old and worn out. But there was an explosion as we arrived. She’s utterly destroyed but I got everyone out in time.” “I see – this sort of thing, Ensign, battle, combat, never goes the way you think it will. All your do is your best and see what happens. For sure, I am holding a briefing tomorrow, I will authorise medals and commendations recommendations for you to award. I’ll send those to you later on.”, he said and then he thought about Ensign Petrova, “I will also head over to Medical after this meeting to check on our pilots.”, he said. “With that being said, I feel strongly that all personnel who took place in this mission receive the combat action ribbon as they all performed satisfactorily in combat. Along those lines, sir, I would like to put in Ensigns Petrova, Williams, and Shara for the Squadron Commander's Commendation, as they performed exquisitely under enemy fire and duress, and this mission would not have been a success without their assistance and leadership.” Remae simply nodded, the codes for medals and commendations would be sent over to the Ensign for allocation as he saw fit. “There is another matter sir, a personal and personnel matter that I need to come clean about.” Trip was normally an honest guy to a fault. He didn’t like hiding things, he didn’t like keeping secrets. The fact that he hid his semi pro cage fighting from his parents ate at him for years. He knew that if he didn’t come forward to this, the fear of knowing he might get in trouble would probably get in the way of anything that might exist between him and Alex and the guilt would eat him alive. His carelessness almost got her killed. At least that's how he felt.. “Go ahead Ensign.”, said the Admiral who looked up at the officer. He could tell he was struggling with something, but, his Counselling days taught him to be quiet and listen to what was going to be said. Trip was nervous, but he knew that the right thing to do was come clean. "Sir, I’m not sure what your stance is on fraternizing. There are some who think the I broke protocol and regulations. And I want you to hear it from me and the rumor mill. The night before the mission sir, I knowingly and willingly engaged in a sexual encounter with a subordinate officer. I know that sort of fraternization is frowned upon sir. And while it was completely consensual, and by that I mean completely one hundred percent consensual between Ensign Alexandra Petrova and I, and we were both off duty, of equal rank, and my command was provisional, as the acting senior officer I should have been more careful and not let it advance that far. Ensign Petrova should have been on the Jolly Roger sir, but I had my senior staff join me on the God of War for the trip home. For Ravok it would be more comfortable, he almost died. For Ire, his fighter was destroyed and I thought it would be good to have him there. With Alex, I wanted to talk to her, hash out things, this relationship. Here is her official transfer request to OPS here on the base sir, out of the fighter wing. We were going to present it to you when we arrived. But, well, had I not had her on board to use time to talk about this, about our relationship, had I not given into those feelings the night before…” Trip paused. “I can’t help but feel like this is entirely my fault sir, she might not make it through the night. So if anyone should bare any blame, as the senior officer it falls to me and I’m ready to take any punitive action that might come my way.” Remae took a moment to absorb the stream of conscious that he had just been told and then waved his hand at the chair in front of him in a motion that wasn’t a request for the Ensign to take a seat, it was an implied order. “… but they didn’t die, did they? If you are going to take command, Ensign, you can’t dwell on the might ofs or could have beens, they didn’t. Your mission actions were appropriate for the situation and the fact is, here you are confessing your so-called wrongdoings tells me that you are a man of honour, who values what others think of him, and who stands up when they’ve made a mistake.”, said the Admiral before folding his arms in front of him and leaning back in his chair. “You did good work out there. You are your team are to be commended and they will be but now, let’s think about your sexual encounter. You have indeed broken several regulations on fraternisation and there is the little matter about you conduct while wearing that uniform, not to mention your recent department promotion.”, he said seriously but he wasn’t angry. “The regulations give me wide latitude in this matter and I do not want to involve the Judge Advocates General Office, but firstly, what are your intentions, Ensign towards Ensign Patrova? She wanted to transfer out of the wing, should she recover? I get the feeling you do not know.”, and then added, “Stand to attention, Ensign.”, the Admiral then waited for him to get out of the chair and come to attention. “You’ve shown poor judgement in this matter and I am disappointed but I also recognise your honesty and willingness to accept responsibility.”, he said and then looked again at the Ensign. “A letter of reprimand will be going into your permanent record. Additionally, until further notice, when not on duty, you are confined to your quarters unless you are visiting Sickbay, Mess or other essential facilities. Furthermore, when on duty, you are to split your shift into thirds, one third for your flight duties, one-third assisting Engineering with the Liquid Plumbing Waste Extraction System and one-third you will report here to me, I have a few piles of PADDs that need sorting.”, said the Admiral giving the order. “Yes sir,” Trip said. He showed no emotion. He would take his lumps and he would grow from them. “Very well, dismissed Ensign. See you tomorrow.”, he said at the departing officer. Remae then stood up, he wanted to visit Medical to check on his injured officers. (Reply None) (posted by Will Banowsy) (Mars Facility – Gym - ENS JG Ailynn Bracken and Ensign JG Trip Williams -1910) It was an odd time for Trip, he had a successful mission, he should have been thrilled, happy. But at the same time, his heart was weary. He thought he had found a kindred spirit in Alexandra Petrova, given her more of him that he had given to anyone, except maybe Rae. He had admittedly moved to fast. And now she was in trouble, whatever caused the explosion in the God of War, she was standing right next to it as it happened. She was badly wounded, breathing, but critical. It would be touch and go. She might be the first to die under his command. His heart hurt, he felt something for her, he hoped the universe would not take her away. Even if the relationship were to one day fail, he felt sick thinking she might not make it through the night. After briefing the Admiral, he ran into him in the hallways as he was making his way to medical. Trip double checked that, after 33 hours of being cooped up in a shuttle, that the gym was an essential facility. He then went straight to his quarters, changed, and went to the gym. He didn’t stop to say hello to his sister, though he did inform her he was alive when he had beamed out. He had ignored Ailynn when the med team arrived to collect Ravok and Alex. He didn’t want to waste pleasantries when she was needed to save her life. He just wanted to be alone. He was sure Sy would take it the wrong way, but right now he needed to clear his own thoughts. He didn’t want to go to Sy with all this emotion and confusion in his heart, lest it cause him to react harshly to something she might say. He wanted to be more emotionally grounded first. Teeing up the punching bag, he laid into it. One punch, two punches, three. As he did so, he felt the weight of every lost love, his relationship failures, the fact that Alex might die, that he could do nothing, and that maybe it was his carelessness that caused it. He wanted to spend the ride home talking to her, and she stayed on the Jolly Roger she would have been fine.. He thought he might have had a second chance at love. Instead it was more proof the Universe might want him alone. Trip Williams, the grim reaper. One punch, two punches, three. Every punch filled with pain. He should have talked to his sister. He really should have, but when he got within range of her, he felt it, she had told Ailynn how she felt. He was happy for her, for them. But he just, his heart couldn’t handle in this moment the thought she would have someone and he would be alone, might be alone. There was still hope Alex could be saved. One punch, two. Kick, knee, jap, hook, headbut. He was frustrated. If he was going to be alone, fine, the universe, would win. He’d just find some other way to find fulfillment. Frustrated he threw everything he hand into tackling the bag, breaking it off the chain and he tumbled to the floor with it. “Damnit.” He said as he picked himself off the ground. “I just don’t get it. What the hell happened there at the end? Why didn’t we detect anything until it was too late. Why?” Trip grabbed the bag and tossed it at the wall. “Damnit!” Ailynn knew that she had to tell Trip about a couple of things, and she was terrified. Giving bad news to a relative was one thing, this was another altogether, but it had to be her doing it. She wasn’t sure how well it was going to go, especially since things between Trip and Alex had actually started pretty well. Now though... In the female changing room, she pulled on her gym kit, and guessing what Trip would be doing, asked one of the attending staff to tape up her hands, and braid her hair. ~Not done this in a while~ she thought to herself as she left the room and into the gym itself. She grabbed a pair of trainers pads off the shelf, and stepped slowly across the floor, pulling them on like she had how many times before those years ago as Sienna and herself, amongst others pulled him out of the hole he’d been in. Somehow she knew that he was aware of her, she changed her footsteps, slower, more careful and catlike, randomly she thought of Kenna, as it crept up on a paper ball. She raised the gloves, she knew that Trip wouldn’t hurt her, but her hands were her trade. Trip turned, and threw a punch, powerful, but controlled, buzzing right by Ailynn’s ear. He would never hit her, she knew that, he knew that. He had enough control of his body to aim a punch that wouldn’t land, as long as she didn’t flinch. She held his gaze, unblinking, and trusting that she really did know him, which thankfully, she did. She felt the blow whisper past her right ear. “What are you doing here? You should be in sickbay. Unless, Ailynn, I can feel something is bothering you. Just spit it out. She’s dead, isn’t she?” Moving gracefully on the ball of each foot, she raised the gloves, reaching out and giving him a mark to hit. “She did her best to be...but no she isn’t” Trip should have smiled, but he didn’t, he through a soft weak punch. He wanted to hit something as hard as possible. He couldn’t do that with Ailynn. He couldn’t hurt anyone else in his life. “She’s being kept unconscious at the moment, she sustained quite a head injury.” She moved the pads, and aimed a gentle kick to his midriff, her long legs extending out. “Might not have seemed much at the time, but she has a very serious aneurysm.” “What about the blast damage. She was right there when the explosion went off.” Trip effortlessly blocked her kick. Ailynn was fierce, but Trip was trained. He through two weak punches to be polite. But his pain was still there, if he hit Ailynn with the force he wanted to, he might break her hand. She knew why he was holding back, and he had every right to do it, if a punch went badly, he could hurt her considerably. However, Ailynn also knew that there weren’t many people who had a chance of reaching him when he was in this mood. “The blast damage, though widespread, was easily treated. Burns, fractures, the usual. No. the big issue was what couldn’t be seen on the outside. Deep in the midbrain. Trip, you aren’t going to hurt me, you’ll need to let loose at the pads now. You aren’t going to like what I’m about to tell you.” She swung the right pad around and patted him firmly on the left cheek, where a right cross may have landed if they weren’t training. “Ailynn, just get to the point!” He said landing a hit right on the padd, it wasn’t at full strength but it was close to it. “She’s going into surgery soon, I’m going to try to reduce the pressure that the aneurysm is causing to her brain, but I don't have the skill to do the whole operation and have any expectation of Alex’s survival. I can buy time, but she needs to go to HQ. Mum needs to do the full operation” Trip stopped punching, “Lynn It’s all my fault. I asked her to be on the ship. We needed to talk. She was going to transfer to a different department so we could be together. If ...If she had been on the Jolly Roger, had I not forced the talk…” Trip walked over to wall and punched it as hard as he good with his bare hand, causing a crack in the wall. His hand ached but he didn’t care. Ailynn sighed, “There’s twenty-seven bones in that hand. You crack any of them you’re off duty for a week, neither me or my team have time for routine surgery because idiots feeling sorry for themselves punched a bloody wall. Now listen. Yes, different decisions could have been made, and yes the outcome may have been different, but here’s the thing flyboy, people get hurt. That’s why I’m here, people doing their job, get hurt, and no one ever said that it was easy, or that commanding a team came with easy decisions that came with signposts labelling the right or wrong answers.” “It’s different, it was my call.” “Sure yes, she got hurt because she was somewhere where you asked her to be. So what! She’s a pilot, she knows all the risks every time she gets into a kite. And okay, maybe I didn’t connect with her, or talk enough to her, but I know that she’s a strong enough woman to have told you that what you were asking was a bloody daft idea.” She was being a little harsh with him, she knew, but over the years she’d had how many experiences with the Williams twins, that she had a number of lectures on mind for all occasions “ I know, Lynn, I know, shit happens, its no one’s fault, alright, but ...it's hard not to blame myself for this, it’s hard not to put the onus on me. We, we slept together...It just happened, and I don’t know, it’s like I thought there was something there, but it's like the fates are conspiring against me. Everyone I get close to physically gets hurt, some way somehow.” Feeling that they were getting to a point where they could actually talk, Ailynn pulled the pads off, and dropped them. “I do understand, really I do. However, the measure of a person isn’t what they can withstand, or what they can fight, it’s how they react when they’re down, it’s them picking themselves up again. Yes, a tragic accident happened this time, but here’s the thing. I don’t believe in fate, and I’m not sure you do either, things will change. Anyway, look at it this way. The injuries she has could have killed her, perhaps should have...but they didn’t. The second best surgeon in the fleet is going to operate on her soon, she’s then going to pass her care to the very best there is. She’ll be fine, and busting your ass for giving up on her sooner than you know it.” It was sheer bravado, Ailynn didn’t consider herself anywhere near second best, but it was the thought that was important. “Lynn,” He said with a sigh, “It’s not just that. We’re lucky everyone got home alive. I just, putting people in danger, I’m 22, how the hell do they expect me to make these calls. I’ve been an officer a week. Alex might not make it, Ravok almost bled out. Ire can’t keep a ship from blowing up. I’m in over my head.” Ailynn sighed, nodding. “Someone thinks you can. Trip, your options were limited from the off, the tech you have is what...40 years old? More? It was a blitz raid, not a sunday school picnic; and yes, you’ve been an officer a week, but that doesn’t mean you’ve stopped learning. You’re worthy of it, or you wouldn’t have passed. Your problem is similar to mine, you’re holding too much over yourself, and taking everything too personally, you have to take it less personal, you’ll go mad. And I am not explaining that one to any of our parents.” She smiled gently. “Lynn,” he said with a smile, “You’re right, this sucks. But I got everyone home, and I need to hold on to that, to the little things.” “Hold on to the good, learn off the bad.” She nodded. “Apart from anything, Sy was really upset. “Of course Sy is mad at me, I’m pretty sure. She’s not happy I slept with Alex, mainly because it was too fast and well she was a subordinate. And if what I sensed when I returned, I can’t talk to you about her anymore.” She knew it wasn’t how he meant it, she knew he wasn’t throwing words at her, unfortunately, when she was on edge like she was at the moment, she had a habit of taking things to heart. She felt her heart sink, and a tear begin to well up, which she managed to swallow back. “I see.” She spoke quietly. “I understand. Look. I’d better go, I’ve a procedure to prep for. See you later.” She forced her mouth into something resembling a smile, but her eyes didn’t follow suit. Inside, part of her was ashamed, mortified, and deeply deeply hurt. She turned, and left the gym, picking up the gloves and removing the binding tape off her hands. Trip ran to catch up to Ailynn and placed his hand on her shoulder. “What was it, what did I say wrong?” “From what you sensed, you can’t talk to me about Sy any more?...I’m guessing that you know about Sy and I? I had wanted to tell you myself, face to face. However, can you grasp how bad it sounds what you’ve just said to me?” “That, wasn’t what I meant….” Trip tried to think about his next words carefully, “I mean I knew Sy was into you. I figured it out at the Sands. Look, I didn’t mean anything by it. I just don’t want to put you in the middle of us you know. Like if anything happens, I don’t want to, you know make you feel trapped between me and her, especially if you, you know, nevermind. I’m sorry.” Trip turned to go back to the punching bag and pick up his debris. He had put his foot in his mouth, his new girlfriend needed life saving surgery, and he just upset his oldest friend. Not to mention the fact he had yet to say hello to his sister and was actively avoiding her. Yeah, he just kept burying himself deeper into the hole. Ailynn screwed up her eyes, cursing herself. “Trip you really are a lovable idiot do you know that? Putting Sy and I to one side for a moment, I’ve been stuck in between you two since...who knows when. There is nothing...nothing that can really come between us.” “It’s different now, and I don’t ever want to be the one who gets in the way of her happiness or yours. Apparently I’ve pushed away anyone that might have ever been interested in you too because, you know. Aggressive idiot.” She sighed, and motioned toward a bench. “Sit. I’ll grab us some water.” A few moments later, she passed a glass of ice cold water to him that she’d taken from the replicator on the wall. “I’m not kidding when I say that the operation is tricky, I need my head clear, and at the moment it isn’t.” “Well I definitely don’t want to cloud your mind Lynn.” Trip said sitting next to her. “Sienna may think that, and I dunno, maybe you were protective of me, but it wasn’t you who ignored someone all night on a date, it wasn’t you who chess club girl was figuratively threatened by. It was me. I was a horrible teenager.” She realised that once more, she was talking about herself, and actually didn’t exactly want to, but at the moment it was necessary. “I’m scared Trip, and I may be scared about the same things as you are...” she reached out and held his hand gently. “...but I can’t hold everything back anymore. I can’t be that emotionally stunted teenager anymore. Just...be there for her. She’s had a rough time of late. I’m not allowed to tell you much, but please go and see her, and spend some time. It would mean so much to her.” “See this right there is what I was afraid, you’re not allowed to tell me much, Lynn, I don’t want to put you in a position where you feel you have to keep secrets about me from Sy and Vice Versa. That is what I meant. And yes I need to see her, but I need to get my head on straight first. I need to, just, look she and I are so close, I need space, and I know it would mean so much for her, but I just need to work out my pain first, the way I best know how. I don’t know if Alex and I would have been good together in the long run, but even if she makes it, she’ll be off planet for a long time, with rehab, and with my job, it's an uphill battle and this probably marks an early end.” Trip paused and sighed, “But I want the two of you to be happy, so I wont get in the way, and I won’t put you into a weird spot.” “I appreciate that.” Ailynn said. “But you’ve misunderstood me. Trip. I can’t tell you much, for two reasons, one for the same reason that I couldn’t tell your dad, your mom whoever. Doctor Patient privilege. Same reason that it’s always been. Second.” She paused. “I’m not allowed to have anything to do with her treatment any more. Not now we’re together. You want your space that's fine. I get it I do. I have a lot of times that I want to be alone.” “Look, I love my sister dearly. But sometimes I feel like, I don’t have an identity without her you know. I mean I don’t want to lose her from my life, but...look, I’ll go see her soon, I live with her don’t I. And I owe her pancakes.” “Yeah you do. And don’t look at me I can’t stand pancakes. I only ever eat them because it makes her happy.” “So are you gonna tell her? “You going to snitch about the pancakes?” She smiled. “I understand...I do. I swear the reason I’m a mess is all the secrets that I’m supposed to remember not to tell the other, or my mom, or your dad or whoever.” turning to him, she shrugged and offered a hand. “We friends?” Trip shook her hand. “No, I meant, you know, at my cousin D.J.’s house, after your senior prom right? When Tommy Connicky crashed it and spiked all the drinks and everyone was pretty much trashed.” She laughed, “yeah, I remember,” wondering where this was going, her mind raced... “And we got so drunk we made out.” ...and stopped suddenly as Trip spoke, uncertain if he was joking. “Or at least I think it was you, you and Ashlyn Jones had the same dress on that night, and I was drunk, for the first time, and whoever I was with we were having this really deep conversation about dragons and the made out for 30 minutes. I thought it was you, you guys looked alike. Honestly I don’t even remember who it was. Just that Rae was pissed. She knew, because she showed up and saw it happen but she never told me who. She forgave me, because once she and my cousins D.J. and Will found out that Tommy had basically intoxicated everyone, they calmed her down. Also, I’m pretty sure he tried to fight D.J. and D.J. pushed him into the pool. Tommy got arrested that night. Man what a jerk he was.” “Wait wait. Is that why Rae didn’t speak to me for months after Prom?” Ailynn’s mind “Maybe. I don’t know, I honestly don’t know if it was you or Ashlynn. Rae didn’t speak to Ashlynn for awhile after that either.” Trip began laughing, “I’m a hot mess you know that. Drunkenly making out with someone I don’t know who it is. Breaking up with my Imzadi because 18 was ‘too young’, sticking to a relationship that was going nowhere due misconceived notions of love. Hooking up with one of my officers the night before a mission. I am just a hot mess. Maybe it doesn’t matter who it was.” She opened her mouth to answer, but stopped herself, thinking about what the next words carefully. “I spoke to Ashlyn a bunch of times, she was a Bajoran/Human as well, only she was half and half. She had the same condition as me. I wouldn’t say we hit it off, but we chatted a lot in the library. She was always in there do you remember?” “Lynn, I only entered the school library 3 times in high school. All of which were for detention.” “I was pretty toasted that night. But I grew up on a vineyard. I could hold a bit more than a lot of others. Yourself included in those days. Besides, I actually think if you use your imagination, you’ll remember that it certainly wasn’t me...Second base i believe the expression was? Wasn’t me hun.” Trip paused, thought for a second, paused again, thought again, “Yeah, It was Ashlyn Jones. Now that I think about it. Damn, such an idiot. Should have brought it up sooner, haha, spent years wondering the truth. Rae never told me, as she put it, ‘that’s your penance. ‘ Well guess penance is over.” “Look. If it’s any consolation, I talked to her about that night afterward, she spent ages trying to find out who it had been. She was such a beautiful, but lonely girl. Lots of people asked her out, but it was always for her body, never for her, and she knew that. No friends, bad home life, though none of us knew what that meant back then. Until now, I never knew that it was you...and here’s the kicker...you gave that girl hope, you made her feel worth something where she actually didn’t. You made her feel like there was someone out there who liked her and valued her. Now...ironically it took a talk about dragons and a drunken fumble, which isn’t precisely appropriate, but you still changed how she viewed herself. So...I’m not sure it’s what you wanted to hear, but it had a happy ending...of sorts. “You know she lives on Bajor now right. She moved in with her grandmother. I hear she is a teacher.” Trip paused. “It’s not fair when you think about it Lynn. Some of us, you and I, Sy, we have all the luck. Stable homes, no big real problems. We had the luxury of a childhood, of making mistakes. Of screwing up, being ok. But then nothing ever really bad happened to us. Except for the one time I almost died. But then you have others. R’Vek the Reman who saw his homeworld destroyed. Ravok just lost his father, Ire lost both his parents. Alex was addicted to drugs, her sister died of an overdose, almost died when getting run over by a shuttle. Sometimes it seems like the fortunate stay fortunate, and the unlucky get the shaft.” She nodded. “We had our problems too, but they weren’t a patch on others. Now, I’m not saying you didn’t suffer, you did, but what I’m trying to say is don’t go looking for bad luck, count the silver linings not the clouds.” “No, no I get it. I worked hard, at everything. Yeah I barely knew where our school library was, because I always studied at home, or snuck into the Academy Library. I worked for it all. I earned it. But, look, it just, its hard not to feel guilty about your good fortune, whether deserved or not, when you’ve earned it, especially when…” Trip sighed, “Sy works hard, she’s smart, she’s capable but I get the feeling that she thinks or I guess maybe it’s already happened, I’ve been gone for 32 hours, that the Admiral is gonna name that smug vulcan to a position over her. And with me as acting Flight XO, I don’t know if she is taking it well. I’m not gonna say she’s jealous. But I’ve always felt like, if I can’t do well unless she is, because otherwise it strains our relationship.” Trip put his head in his hands, “And here I had just promised I wasn’t going to put you in the middle of us.” Ailynn smiled, sadly, She knew what he was trying to say, but he still didn’t get it. She placed a gentle arm over his shoulders. “Look, I’m in the middle anyway.” She lifted his head up, gently by the chin. “I always have been, and always will be.” She paused. “Look, I’ll level with you. The rest of the acting Assistants were handed out yesterday. Sekal and myself were named aACSO and aACMO respectively.” “Damnit,” Trip hurt for his sister. “She came back from the science mission needing medical attention. I’ll get struck off if I tell you what happened, about any of it. I have to pass her care over now, I can’t do it. Those are the reasons that she’s been so...delicate in the last couple of days.” “And of course I’ve been gone for 33 hours. But I have some time off. I’ll need to do something.” Trip made sure not to mention he was essentially under house arrest. Ailynn nodded. "Have some you time too. Its important and she does understand that. I'm around too for her." She leaned on his shoulder. It was strange how differently she considered Trip and Sienna, Trip had always had a familial feel, but Ailynn's relationship with Sienna had been harder to pin down. "You as well yeah?" “Is Alex going to be sedated until she gets to Earth?” Ailynn nodded "once the pressure has been alleviated the initial danger will be over, she'll then be kept under with assorted drugs and be transferred. Mum will do the rest the second she arrives." She paused, we have every reason to think that she'll hear you if you go speak to her." “Ok, that’s good.” He said meekly. "I'd better go and start to prep. She's in Surgical 1 if you want to see her. I find it helps, but I get it if it's difficult." “At least I can say goodbye, even if she can’t hear me.” She stood up and rubbed his shoulder, moving toward the door but then stopped and went back, leaning over him, and placed a gentle kiss on the top of his head. "I'm always here. Love you Flyboy." She then turned and slowly walked to the door, her mind already on the procedure ahead of her. ~If there is a God out there, if you are real, whoever you are, whether you’re my mother’s goddess, the god of the Earth religions of Old, even the great ferengi continuum of wealth. The Bajoran Prophets, any of you, if you’re real, please, please watch over Alex, please make sure that her procedure goes well, that she lives. Even if I never see her again, even if it means the end of our relationship, I’d gladly trade that if it meant she would live. If anyone is out there listening. Please! I don’t care about this us thing. Like I’m not asking her to be alive so that I can date her. She has a lot to offer, she just doesn’t know it yet. She keeps everyone at an arms length, but she’s not a bad person. Selfishly, I’m not ready for someone to die under my command. Please, just let her have a second chance at life. I’ll do anything. Please!” Then he sat forward and joining his arms together, he whispered an ancient Earth prayer as tears began to fall down his face. He wasn’t ready to lose an officer. He wasn’t ready to lose a friend. He would willingingly break up with her if it meant she would live. He had faith in who Alex could be, and he wanted the world to get that chance. ~Don’t know if you’re real, but it can’t hurt.~ “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” Trip then stayed in silence in his corner of the gym, just hoping that Ailynn and her mom could save Alex’s life. (reply none) (posted by Will and Mark) (Mars Facility – Medical bay- Room 2 - Ensign JG -1940) Ravok laid in his bed waiting for news on how long his recovery would be. Thoughts of the mission ran through his mind. What went right ...but more importantly what went wrong. The shield frequencies were exploited. ~ I checked my numbers with the computer 6 times. And I ran the simulation 150 times. The calculations were spot on. I factored in every tactical output wield they had used and analyzed their capabilities....maybe i was wrong, maybe ...no that's crazy Ravok dont think like that of coarse no one leaked our tactical data...could they of ? How ? When ? Why? Who? ~ Ravok thought as he played there driving himself crazy. ~ Maybe a chair is just a chair...but some chairs are more comfy than others~ he thought . Ravok step mother was told she'd have to wait to see him. Ravok didnt even see her amidst the confusion in the hangar bay . He looked at his arm that was hooked up to an IV he was receiving fluids to remain hydrated. ~ Alex, please pull through ...please~ he thought really hard hoping somehow, somewhere, someone would answer his plea. Ravok got comfy on the bed and closed his eyes "Get some rest man" he said to himself . (Reply any, reply medical would be great ) ( posted by davis) (Mars Facility – Medical - Ensign JG- Ire Williams -1944) Ire had been in medical since explosion. He had kept tabs on all the wounded as they had been checked out by the medical staff. PO Rix and Chief Taris had been checked out and Taris’s arm which had been broken was set in a cast and been give strong pain killers. Rix had gone back to his quarters and Taris was in over night for observation. He had looked in on her and found her sleeping soundly. Trip looked physically okay but Ire was worried as he saw his friend shutting down. When Trip had gone brief the admiral he had moved to the seat outside Alex’s room and then to the entrance of the operation theatre where she had been rushed in. She had been told by a kind doctor that Alex’s chances were slim and that they were was aneurysm which was causing pressure deep in her midbrain. They could reduce the pressure but not fit the problem so after surgery they were going to transport her to Starfleet Medical on earth where the was a batter chance of susses. Greta had been seen by a doctor and cleared for duty and had found him as he waited outside the operating theatre. He had seen a strange expression cross her face and she had told him to keep her informed about Alex’s condition and when they were going to transport her. A nurse had come over to him and told him the operation would be a while and maybe he should get a drink or some food at the patient’s restaurant. He thanked her as he walked away but he realised that there was one person which he had not seen yet. He began to walk the corridors of medical drifting past the busy staff as they moved around, he passed an open door to a room in one of the medical bays when voice emerged that he recognised. "Get some rest man" He grinned and moved over and stood in the doorway. He saw Ravok lying on a bed, hooked up to a IV. “You really are a crazy Romulan.” (Reply Ravok) (Reply Ravok, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Facility – Medical - Ensign JG Ravok -1945) "You really are a crazy Romulan.” Ravok opened his eyes and looked at the door to see a grinning Ire. " Hey Ire, how are you?" Ravok asked him (Reply Ire) " Yeah, I'm under orders to remain in this bed, I'm going insane just laying here knowing Ensign Petrova might not make it. I can hear the conversations and the whispers. People aren't optimistic. " Ravok said ( reply Ire) " She is one of us, up there I feel like I can do almost anything. Down here on this planet in this stupid bed ,I feel useless...powerless" (Reply ire) " My mother isnt allowed to see me yet . Only officers I guess, last month I was doing Karaoke in some bar on earth . Now this " he said to Ire. ( reply Ire ) (Posted by Davis )