NRPG: Didn't you all realize that thing at the bow of the Boudicca *is* our Wave Motion Canon? :) I bet we've been firing it off without putting on our goggles. We'll have to fix that. 5... (see ShuttleBay) 4... (see SickBay) 3... (see Torpedo Bay) 2... (see Engine Room) 1!!! (see Bridge) Boudicca is Go! *whoosh* Start Credit Music Today's Compile Index is brought to you by your local Shuttle Dealers, if you can find it cheaper somewhere else, we'll knock off a hundred..... umm... yeah... Day 16 (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Commander Archibald Stakes - 0925) (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, Commander Archibald Stakes, 10.14) (USS Boudicca, Main Engineering, CEOs office, ACEO Jael al-Sharif, 10.42) (USS Boudicca - Main Engineering - CEO's Office - ACEO Lorimar - 1043) Day 22 (USS Kitty Hawk - Sickbay - Civilian Francesca dela Rosa - 2040) (USS Kitty Hawk - Sickbay - Arania - 2041) (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC/2O Lt. Cmdr. Aleksander Stolev - Day 22 - 2100) (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - Capt Sevant - 2110) (USS Boudicca - Corridor outside Observation Lounge - OPS Lt (jg) Donald Johnson - 2133) (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - TAC/SC/2O Lt. Cmdr. Aleksander Stolev - Day 22 - 2135) (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - FO, Commander Archibald Stakes - 2140) (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - OPS Lt (jg) Donald Johnson - 2141) (USS Kitty Hawk - Sickbay- CEO- Lt. Matthew McLaren-- 2145) Day 25 (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0800) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Capt Sevant 0801) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0802) Day 29 (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - Capt Sevant - 1500) RPG: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission: The Anointed, Day 16 Stardate: 2407.03.09 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Commander Archibald Stakes - 0925) With his nose suddenly filled with an extremely bad smell, Archibald watched Donald open one of the other crates to bring out a subdermal regenerator. "I am so sorry about this Commander" the officer said with a gesture to treat Archibald's wounds. Keeping his mouth closed he simply nodded, trying to breath as little as possible. He had plenty to say but in this case not having to inhale too much of the stinking air was a higher priority. Besides it would give him time to think of some excruciating punishments. "Sir would you like me to find some room for these...........crates someplace more fitting? Like an airlock Sir?" suddenly Lorak pipped up but before the Commander could react, Johnson spoke up. "What?" I'm sorry Ensign. I may be new here, but rest assured there are better places than airlock for Thelma and Louise here." "With all do respect Lieutenant, I'm sure that your petting zoo was a big hit from where ever you came from, but this is not a place for so much......junk." "Enough!" barked Archibald, forcing himself to breath again, which was when he noticed that the air filters had already begun to get rid of the bad smelling air. Which was a good thing as he could now concentrate fully on blasting the disrespectful Ensign and the equally hazardous Lieutenant. His mind stepping through all the different and some quite interesting ways to punish both of the officers, he watched how the OPS-officer got up and released the bleater, which rather unsurprising turned out to be a goat. "I will have them out of your hair in a second, just don't make any sudden moves," the Chief of OPS said, which Archibald considered to be slightly late. But he watched in amazement as the goat seemed to have some powers over the lizards and was able to 'call' the remaining lizard. "If you could assign me quarters, I will get out of your hair. I will return promptly, Commander." Archibald walked over to the command chair and assessed the ship's room list. "Deck 3, Room 25, Lieutenant," he replied to Donald and made a note on the list to signal the quarters now to be occupied. He then let himself slide into the chair and cringed when he heard that Johnson didn't want to let matters rest. "Perhaps you could clean up the eggs, Ensign. I'm sure you know where to put them." "Yes Sir I put them right up your a........." the TAC/ASC replied and Archibald was suddenly acutely aware of some sniggering sounds. Lorak however seemed to refrain himself, only a tad late, as he followed on with: "I'll have it taken care of." Archibald held his breath for a split second to make sure he had his voice under control. "No, you will not, Ensign. You will do it yourself, as Mister Johnson asked. Only I don't ask, I give orders. You understand the difference, Ensign? And when you are done, you and I will have a little chat about the proper way to address higher ranking officers, Ensign. That is, if you wish to remain an Ensign, Ensign." (Reply Lorak,any) With a final look towards the tactical Officer, Archibald then turned his chair towards the OPS-officer, who was just talking to the security officer, who had brought up the crates. "I DO hope I misheard you, Lieutenant, and that you are not suggesting to use a Starfleet Security Officer as your personal lackey. If anyone will shift those crates, it will be yourself. Unaided. They are your crates, not Starfleet property. I believe there is a storage locker available on Deck 7 that you may use. Oh, and don't forget the crates that are still waiting in transporter room 2. But first you may bring your menagerie to your quarters. Just be advised, Lieutenant, there will be surprise inspections held, regarding sanitation and the general state of the quarters. If they are not conforming to the minimum state of cleanliness, it won't be just the ensign who will be doing manual cleaning jobs." (Reply Donald, any) (Reply Lorak, Donald, any) (Posted by Adrie Geuken) (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, Commander Archibald Stakes, 10.14) Examining the woman as Archibald did his best to discredit the once-Captain, he noted how much self-control the engineer could muster. An amazing amount in fact. And where any 'normal' Ensign would have flinched or started to look uncomfortable, this 'Ensign' remained as unmoving and unemotional as a robot .... or a Vulcan, which Archibald suddenly considered as a possibility. But then he disregarded that thought as quickly as it came. What Archibald suddenly did notice as he was continuing hammering away at Rivers, was that he was starting to enjoy himself. This was turning into a battle with a very worthy opponent. Not an enemy, mind you, an opponent. Whatever Archibald had said, Rivers would never have bonded with an enemy, of that Archibald was sure. And he was sure that there was a connection between the two, the non-reaction of the 'Ensign' was proof enough for him. He also was sure that his hide would be cooked if the Commander ever heard of what Archibald had said about her, but to be honest it would be almost worth it. Then, having laid his trap, Archibald fell silent and waited for Jael, or whatever her name was, to respond. And waited. And the longer he waited, the more he became convinced that there was indeed a bond between the two women. "I am sorry?" she finally said, evenly. "To whom were you referring? As far as I can tell, there is no captain in the room..." "Oh, but there is, Ensign. There definitely is. " Archibald decided to leave it there. He had not lied. It was just the question of whether there was one Captain, or two. "I see. Well, Commander, I am quite certain that I know not to what you are referring." the engineer replied, making Archibald sigh inwardly. He had actually expected a counter-attack, in an attempt to get way from the issue at hand. But then her next words nearly made him smile. "And furthermore, I was not aware that Starfleet Regulations permitted officers to be so candid as to their feelings when speaking of other superior officers. I believe, sir, that you have misunderstood the situation. While I am not certain why it is that Commander Rivers felt my performance worth mentioning in a record, there must have been something that I had done. As for Commander Rivers, she most definitely did not make my life *easy*." Archibald nodded to 'Jael'. If she thought that this would have turned away the danger, well, let her. "That is good to know, Ensign. I hate sloppy leaders." He then fell silent and regarded his hands for a couple of seconds. "Oh, I nearly forgot," he said with a smile as he tapped the communicator button on his console. "Commander Stakes to Sickbay. I have just read Doctor Manzo's report on the new mark of medical tricorder that Sickbay has received. I must admit I was intrigued by his report and would like to validate a few of his remarks for myself. Be so good and send one of the new recorders up to the Ready Room. Immediately, please. Stakes out." He then turned back to the 'engineer' and smiled. "Please take a seat, Ensign. You will not be leaving this room until I am certain that you are who you say you are and that you are not a danger to this ship and this crew. So, until then, you might as well make yourself comfortable. It looks like this is going to be a long day for the both of us." (Reply 'Jael') (Posted by Adrie Geuken) (USS Boudicca, Main Engineering, CEOs office, ACEO Jael al-Sharif, 10.42) "Forgive me lass...my manners are poor. Did ye just report aboard? Do ye need quarters? Are ye hungry? Can I buy ye a coffee before we get started? Forgive me, I make a poor first impression and a poorer host I fear." Jael attempted a feigned laugh, despite all the disaster that was around them, the ACEO was trying to make her feel at home. She kept a semi-forced smile on her face as she was trying to get along with her crew people, especially in light of the encounter she had just endured. She shuddered again, thinking of what had most recently transpired. She needed to sift, she needed to think. In short, she felt she needed to be alone and the best place to do that would be in the company of massive damage in a Jeffries tube. Although she realised that working by herself at this particular point of time might be a luxury that the Boudicca couldn’t afford. "I am fine, thank you" Jael responded in an attempt to be somewhat kind. "And, no, I don't think you a poor host, especially considering the current state of affairs of the ship. Perhaps we could have a coffee together another time, but for now, how might I be of most use?” She thought back to the questions that he had asked prior to offering her a coffee. “My specialty is pretty much anything. I work well by myself and with others. Did you want me to start running diagnostics? Or work on the down transporter? Or...” She accentuated what would have been represented by an ellipsis with a wide gesture of her hand. (Reply Lorimar) (Posted by Kat) (USS Boudicca - Main Engineering - CEO's Office - ACEO Lorimar - 1043) Bob studied, or attempted to study, Jael's face without appearing to stare. He pondered just what might be going on in her mind at the moment. ~Ah've been in enough Pub's tae recognize a fake smile on a person when I see one. Perhaps ah've made her uneasy in some way?~ Abandoning that unprofitable line of thought for the certain loser that it was he cupped his chin in his hands for a moment and allowed his eyes to close just a second before he responded. ~Ye need some sleep Bob... yer mind is getting fuzzier than normal...~ "Right. A short answer seems in order eh? Fresh eyes and a clear head are what I need most. Would ye be so kind as to see if ye can run down that impulse engine variance for us? It *seems* its in the control circuits, but I cannae be sure. We replaced so many of the bio-neural gelpacks its almost like replacing a person's nervous system with a brand new one. I've been workin' on it so long I cannae be sure I am seeing what is really there, or what I *think* is there. If ye'd take a look at it, I'll work on that ventral phaser issue." (Reply Jael) "Right. If there's nothin' else I'll be headed for the lower decks. If ye need anythin just call. An' if ye find what ah've missed call me an' ah'll come back up so ye can slap me in the face, alright?" Bob grinned, quite delighted to have another mind working on the problem. He grabbed his toolkit and headed out for the turbolift... (Reply Jael, Any) (Posted by Russ) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission: The Anointed, Day 22 Stardate: 2407.03.15 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Kitty Hawk - Sickbay - Civilian Francesca dela Rosa - 2040) Francesca had spent the last hour or so sitting by John's bed. The medical staff had been very kind but she still felt quite lonely sitting there, waiting for him to wake up. The nurse, whose name she couldn't remember, had told her that John had short periods of consciousness, but that they couldn't predict when they would happen. In the meantime, she had arranged for Inez to be brought over and for someone to babysit whilst Francesca stayed with John. The door opened and she looked up to see someone completely unfamiliar. The woman wasn't wearing a starfleet uniform either. "Did you want something?" Francesca asked. "I think the nurse is around somewhere, if you need medical attention." (Reply Arania, any) (Posted by Liz) (USS Kitty Hawk - Sickbay - Arania - 2041) The door to the intensive care room opened and Arania stepped through them, pausing, eyes closed to draw in several calming breaths to clear her mind of the hostility she felt towards the man outside, it wouldn't do for John to sense that she was now angry, and it certainly would carry into her music and have an adverse effect on the healing attributes of it. "Did you want something?" A female voice asked. "I think the nurse is around somewhere, if you need medical attention." Arania startled and literally jumped giving a little squeal of surprise. Her eyes flew open and she pressed a hand to her beating heart. "Gracious Goddess!" She exclaimed. "You scared me. I wasn't expecting anyone to be here except John." Arania laughed nervously and gracefully walked over to the woman seated at John's bedside. She gave a little bow, guessing that this woman must be John's woman as Arania was Matthew's. "Greetings, I am Arania from Iradon, please forgive my intrusion, but I have come to play the Song of Healing for John as I have done every day since he was damaged. Please don't send me away, for it is important that the Song be sung for at least four days." She reached into the folds of her robe and brought out her pipes. (Reply Francesca, any) (Posted by Sal) (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC/2O Lt. Cmdr. Aleksander Stolev - Day 22 - 2100) Stolev hurried into the Observation Lounge, running borderline late as usual. He was surprised to find it much more crowded than usual; all the seats were already occupied and people were already standing along the outer wall. As he made his way to stand near the only open seat -- the one reserved for the captain -- he did a double-take as he saw Zzt sitting on the floor at the edge of the room. He hadn't seen the oversized engineer since their days together on the Nimitz. As his eyes passed over the rest of the room, Sasha also saw Eva sitting at the table, in full uniform, studying a PADD. ~That must be the reason for the guys standing outside the door,~ he realized; he had been in too much of a hurry to take much notice of them when he had initially arrived. He hadn't had a chance to talk with her since she had learned what had happened on the planet, but he wasn't really surprised that she had managed to convince someone to let her attend the staff meeting. Sevant walked through the doors just as Stolev had found a spot along the wall next to the viewport; he placed his PADD on the table, did his own double-take upon noticing Zzt, then called the meeting to order, at which point he announced the news that Rivers had been promoted to Captain and given her own command, and that Stakes was the official new FO. While he had strongly suspected Rivers would be leaving, he was still sorry to hear the news, though pleased for her that she was getting another chance at command, which was where she clearly belonged. He listened to the other announcements, involving crew both departing and arriving, and listened as the new folks all introduced themselves. He nodded at Ensign Laroon, whom he had seen from the various reports he had perused prior to the meeting was his new TAC/ASC. Once the introductions were complete, Sevant leaned forward again. "I realize we've only been on board for a short time, but you've all had time to at least check in. What's our intermediate Status?" "Repairs have progressed better as originally planned. Commander Zzt's team as well as our own engineering officers have performed an examplory service, Sir." reported Commander Stakes. "The ship is almost fully operational but tomorrow we will be complete. If I may, I have prepared a listing of crew rotations and crew changes to account for the hard work that those who were on board this vessel have performed. You will all see them on your monitors in front of you. For those who have seen them already, you will notice that all crew who have been participating in the retrieval of Lieutenant Colonel Straton as part of the away team are not listed. That is because I deem that they did not receive sufficient downtime after the mission. Hence they will get it now. They are as of the end of this meeting off duty for 48 hours. No exceptions allowed. Afterwards I will hold meetings with all department heads to discuss the workings of their departments. Again, no exceptions allowed." Stolev blinked at this, as he had only scratched the surface of the mountain of reports and updates awaiting him, and another two days would put him even further behind. Then he mentally shrugged, deciding instead that this could be an opportunity for him to see how much his new assistant could get done over the next two days. Zzt gave an engineering update, then reached for a plate of cookies on the table and managed to send them skittering in all directions; Stolev did his best to keep from chuckling. ~It'll certainly be interesting to have him around again.~ Eva was the next to give a report, and Sasha noticed that she did not so much as glance in his direction. "The marines are combat ready as always," she said with a strong voice but not looking up or meeting anyone's gaze. Stolev waited a moment to make sure she had finished, then gave his own report. "Tactical systems are very nearly back to 100%. We should be fully up and running within a day -- two at the most. My compliments to the engineering staff for their hard work." (reply anyone else) Once everyone had spoken, Sevant stood. "Very well, you all have your orders." But then Stakes intervened, informing them all that Linskens would not be returning to the Boudicca; he would instead be going to Geneva for further treatment. Stolev still couldn't quite believe that the man was alive at all, and would never forget his bravery and self sacrifice that had enabled the rest of them to make it back to the Kitty Hawk. As the meeting finally began to disperse, Stolev looked around for his new Lyran TAC/ASC and saw him marching out of the room. He glanced at Eva, but she was still refusing to even look at him. After a moment of indecision, he decided it would be best to go speak with his new assistant briefly, even if he was supposed to be technically off duty. Stolev had to walk briskly and didn't catch up with Laroon until they got to the turbolift. "Ensign," he said. "A moment, if you please." (reply Laroon) "We haven't had a chance to meet formally," Stolev said, extending his hand. "Though I'm technically supposed to be off-duty, I'd like to quickly discuss some departmental things with you, so that we'll all be on the same page and you'll know better what to work on over the next twenty-four hours." The doors to the turbolift closed behind them. "Deck Ten," said Stolev, before casting Laroon a sidelong glance. "Since I'm supposed to be off-duty, we can chat in Ten Forward," he said with a smile. (reply Laroon, any) (posted by Aaron) (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - Capt Sevant - 2110) Sevant had listened to the First Officer quietly, sitting back in his chair and supporting the weight of his head with one finger on the temple. The man was every inch the Captain; it was an enigma... why he would be put on the Boudicca as First Officer. The 52nd fleet was hard-up for Captains, especially those with anything that resembled battle experience. He inclined his head, ever so slightly, when Stakes was done. He would have preferred to keep everyone on duty while the Kitty Hawk was around, but the Assistant department heads could handle the load. This was likely to be the only quiet time they had left. Saying or doing anything more would demean the man's authority before it had really been established. Zzt rose next to his full height. The creatre wiggled his paws at them, in the kind of attitude Sevant had almost forgotten about, then said. Zzt explained what he had upgraded, along with a few other details. When he asked if he could be allowed to elaborate, however, Sevant waved a hand. "Later, Commander." Sevant said, before anyone else could say a word. One thing he DID remember, Zzt liked to talk. He closed his eyes briefly as the giant creature tried to get at some of the refreshments that had been provided and flung them around the table. He picked up one from in front of him and placed it to the side, calmly. "Continue." He said. "The marines are combat ready as always," She said with a strong voice but not looking up or meeting anyone's gaze. Sevant's eyes narrowed slightly. The Colonel hadn't looked up the entire meeting, it hadn't gone unnoticed. She was almost acting... timid. A word he had never associated with her before. He made a mental note to look into it, and nodded for the next to continue. (reply: any who want) Once everyone had spoken, Sevant stood. "Very well, you all have your orders." He was about to dismiss them when the new First Officer said, "Before you all return to either your duty station or your quarters, I think I should mention that Ensign John Linskens will not be joining us. He will remain on the Kitty Hawk and will be returned to the medical facilities on Geneva Space Station to undergo further treatment. As I have already done so for some," Archibald's gaze just 'happened' to glance in Matthew's direction, "transporter restrictions for short return trips to the medical facilities on board the Kitty Hawk have been lifted, if people wish to say their goodbyes. I appreciate that John is unconscious most of the time, but there are some down there who will appreciate a visit from his old mates. As I was told a short while ago, no-one is left behind. Which reminds me, Mister McLaren, could you stay behind after the meeting. There is something I wish to discuss with you." Sevant quirked an eyebrow, and made yet another mental note to talk to Mr Stakes later. He liked knowing what was going on with his personnel, nothing had been discussed that would require a personal word with his CEO. Still, he would deal with that in private, later. He picked up his PADD and stepped out the door. (reply: any) (posted by Trout) (USS Boudicca - Corridor outside Observation Lounge - OPS Lt (jg) Donald Johnson - 2133) Donald approached the giant officer with a little trepidation and excitement. It was like his own first contact situation, something that Donald relished. "Commander Zzt?" he said, trying to catch the Gerattlian just as he lumbered out the door. The Gerattlian paused, giving Donald some time to catch up. "Would you care to grab a bite to eat?" "Who you gain?" asked Zzt. "I'm Donald Johnson" replied Donald. "Jew-sin? Jo-hen? Jo-sin?" said the Gerattlian, chewing his way around Donald's name. "You want eat wit Zzt? Zzt hungry. Where go? 10 Forward?" "Ten Forward. That's fine." agreed Donald quickly, thinking that he had planned to have a meal later, but it would be interesting nonetheless. (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - TAC/SC/2O Lt. Cmdr. Aleksander Stolev - Day 22 - 2135) Stolev and Laroon entered the lounge, where Stolev led the way to a small two-person table near the edge of the room. A waiter walked up and asked if he could get them anything. "I'll just have some Altair water," replied Stolev. (reply Laroon) "Very good, gentlemen," replied the waiter before heading off to get their drinks. Stolev watched him for a moment, then turned back to his new assistant and leaned forward. "So, I've had a chance to review your service record," he began. "I saw that you're a graduate of the Lyran Military School for Combat. I don't believe I've ever met anyone who has that distinction, though admittedly I've met very few Lyrans in my time. So, what sorts of things did they teach you there?" (reply Laroon) "I see," replied Stolev. "So what prompted you to join Starfleet after that?" (reply Laroon) "And this is your first assignment out of the Academy, I noted." Stolev rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Well, as I'm sure you've noticed during your brief time aboard, there are a lot of things to keep up with on board a tactical ship during a time of war. Lots of reports, lots of requisitions, and many regulations and procedures to be followed. I had time to get through only the most critical items before the meeting. And now that I am spending the next 48 hours off-duty, someone else will have to go through them all. That, unfortunately for both of us I'm afraid, is you. You may be green, Mr. Laroon, but I can't afford to hold your hand... er, paw... whatever... while you get acclimated. You have to hit the ground running, or you might as well not be here at all. Is that clear?" (reply Laroon) "Oh, and one more thing. If you haven't already, you'd better see Chief Haverstaad about getting certified on TIHS. You have to have that in order to serve on the bridge, and you absolutely will have to be able to serve on the bridge." (reply Laroon, any in Ten Forward) (posted by Aaron) (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - FO, Commander Archibald Stakes - 2140) "I would like to visit with Mister Linskens before I no longer have an opportunity, and I also have some paperwork to fill out which the Commander was kind enough to provide." "Yes, I guess you do. Give my regards to Mrs Dela Rosa when you are down there. Mr. McLaren," Archibald finished with a nod of his head. (reply Matthew, if you wish) Having waited until the Lieutenant had left, Archibald was about to go to his office when he noticed the rather forlorn, yet bulky figure of the acting Counsellor as he stood further down the corridor, apparently slumped against the wall. Archibald walked up to him and from behind he said: "Not content with the results from your little experiment, Ensign?" The Counsellor suddenly turned and his face broke into a smile. "On the contrary, Archibald," he said enthusiastically, apparently disregarding Archibald's raised eyebrow when the FO heard his first name being used. "But like I said before, please call me Oggie, Sir. Everybody else does." "It has not slipped my mind, Ensign." Archibald replied dryly, which made Oggie sigh. "Still persisting in this ide-fixe that a commander of men may not become emotionally involved with his crew, I see. But no man is an island, Archibald." Without hesitation, Archibald replied: "All mankind is of one author, and is one volume; when one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated...As therefore the bell that rings to a sermon, calls not upon the preacher only, but upon the congregation to come: so this bell calls us all: but how much more me, who am brought so near the door by this sickness....No man is an island, entire of itself...any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee. I am aware of John Donne's meditation 17. But rest assured, Ensign, when I feel the sudden urge to be a mass of land surrounded fully by the sea, you will be the first to know. But until that time my bell-tolling will be just for me, thank you. But the Colonel, Mister Marsh?" Oggie sighed again but this time his face turned to the corridor that Eva had used to. He slowly licked his lips. "She is .... progressing," he said finally, not wanting to say too much. There was the patient-doctor confidentiality, after all. Archibald picked up the hesitation and nodded. "Good," he said, "Make sure she keeps .... progressing. In the right direction." He nodded to the counsellor and headed for his office but after a few steps he turned back. "Oh, Mister Marsh? As you are temporarily assigned to the Boudicca as acting Counsellor, I deemed it best to make some arrangements for you. I have approached Sergeant Gardner from the Marine Training Corps and he has consented in becoming your personal fitness trainer for the journey. He expects you to arrive tomorrow morning at nine hundred hours in training hall 1. Fitness clothing will be required. Don't be late. Good evening, Ensign." Archibald continued on his way but after a few steps he halted again. "I guess, Ensign, you could say: and therefore never send to know for whom the fitness instructor tolls the bell; it tolls for thee." He then continued on his way, leaving a perplexed Oggie slumped against the wall. "VERY droll, Sir," Oggie muttered, before he sighed and shuddered. (reply Matthew, none) (posted by Adrie Geuken) (USS Boudicca - Ten Forward - OPS Lt (jg) Donald Johnson - 2141) Donald followed Zzt into Ten Forward and surveyed the area. He watched as Zzt rearranged an area for them to sit. "Zzt, how would you like to prepare our meal with me? I enjoy cooking, how about you? Would you like to give it a try? I promise it won't hurt." said Donald reassuringly. (Reply Zzt) Donald said, "Wait here. Let me check with the barkeep." (Reply Zzt, as desired) Donald walked over to the bar and flagged down a petite asian woman. "Excuse me, may I have a word?" he asked (Reply Mei Ling) "My name is Donald Johnson and you are?" he asked. (Reply Mei Ling) "Pleased to meet you, Ms. Hikaru. Do you happen to have a cooking area that my friend and I might prepare a meal? I am not a terribly big fan of replicator food preparation." explained Donald. (Reply Mei Ling) Donald turned to wave Zzt over. "Please lead the way." said Donald. (Reply Zzt, Mei Ling, Any) (posted by Kaweo Kanoho) (USS Kitty Hawk - Sickbay- CEO- Lt. Matthew McLaren-- 2145) Matthew stepped through the doors as they slid aside to permit him entry into the Kitty Hawk's small sickbay. Matthew walked up to the glass partition that surrounded the intensive care unit and noticed Arania and Francesca sitting chatting while they held the vigil for John's possible recovery. He smiled then, despite the way he felt. Knowing that John Linskens had nearly lost his life because Matthew McLaren had made a bad decision. But it was a strange thing. The decision wasn't entirely bad. He had Arania, a woman that he loved and someone that he would cherish forever. He hoped that John had realized exactly how much that meant to him. But at the same time, his decision to bring Arania along had jeopardized John's life. A life with a woman and child who loved him dearly, even if John didn't realize it himself. He tapped softly on the glass getting Francesca's attention, then pointed to himself and then to the door. He thought he saw her nod, so he walked over to the door and entered. The room was anything but pleasant. The sight of John laying on the biobed that monitored his vital signs was disconcerting. "Hello Fran." he said as lightheartedly as he could, despite the knot in his stomach. "Any change?" (reply Francesca, Arania, John iyw) (posted by Daniel Greene) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission: The Anointed, Day 25 Stardate: 2407.03.18 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0800) Eva stepped out of the turbolift and scanned the Bridge with a cold steely gaze taking in everything in a glance. Her long red hair was tied back in it's customary pony tail, and her uniform was flawless, including the standard duty uniform versions of her Legion of Honor and Star Fleet Shield medals she wore opposite her rank pips on her collar. Her gaze locked on Sevant, sitting in his command chair regarding a PADD. She stepped down to the command deck and snapped to attention in front of Sevant. "Colonel Straton reporting as ordered Sir," She said smartly, her eyes locked straight ahead. (Reply Sevant, Any) (posted by Wes) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Capt Sevant 0801) "Colonel Straton reporting as ordered Sir," Sevant looked up from his PADD after a few moments, and quietly placed it to the side. He folded his hands together over his stomach as he looked up at the Colonel, obviously appraising her. After a few more moments, he turned his head to the side and said, "The Bridge is yours, Commander." (reply: Stakes) He stood and crossed his arms behind his back, "With me, Colonel." And without stopping to see if she'd reply, he stepped off towards the forward turbolift. (reply: as desired) Once he was in the turbolift, he took a glance at her and said, "Have you got some fire back, Colonel?" (reply) "Mmm." He turned back and finally said, "Deck Nine." The turbolift began to move, but only for a few seconds. The doors opened again quickly, and Sevant stepped out. There really wasn't much on this deck, mostly junior quarters and the mess hall. There was, however, a secondary Observation Lounge... a lounge which was designed to be converted like so many other auxiliary rooms on the Keltoi Class. He stepped inside that Observation Lounge and came to a halt a few steps inside. It no longer looked like a Lounge; there were desks and monitors, and a medium sized holographic plotting table in one corner. The secondary Observation Lounge had been turned into the Battle group Strategic Operations Center a little while back, though very little had been done with it lately. Sevant had only just retaken command of the battle group; Mr. Grailik had run its day-to-day operations during the last twenty days, following his previous strategy and orders. For the moment, the room was empty, excepting for the two officers. Sevant turned to face the Colonel. "There was a time long ago that we both pledged to protect and defend the Constitution of the Federation from all threats, foreign and domestic. Your courage, your perseverance, has been exemplary. I have never had cause to regret your presence on my ship, I still don't. I am afraid; however, I must ask you one more favor in that pursuit." Sevant gestured to the room, "I need a Strategist, Colonel. I need an Officer that has proven to have an excellent grip on Tactical and Strategic Operations. I need a Strategic Operations Commander to command the strategic assets of the battle group while I'm tied up in combat on the bridge. There are very few that I would trust could do this job, even fewer I would not be loathe to give this command too. You, Colonel, are one of those few." He walked up to a desk and placed his hand on the backrest of a seat. "This is why you need your fire, Colonel. You have had the presence of mind, character and heart to send your three hundred into the fires, if necessary. Do you still have the strength of mind and character to command several thousand into the same fate?" (reply: Straton) (posted by Trout) (USS Boudicca, Bridge, MCO Lt. Colonel Eva Straton, 0802) "With me, Colonel," Sevant said, standing and placing his arms behind his back. Eva turned her cold expressionless glare toward Stakes staring him in the eye momentarily before turning and following Sevant into the turbolift. "Have you got some fire back, Colonel?" Sevant asked as the lift doors closed. "Yes Sir," She replied evenly, looking him in the eye with the same cold expressionless glare she'd given Stakes. "Mmm." He turned back and finally said, "Deck Nine." Eva turned her gaze back on the lift doors saying nothing else as the lift started moving. When the doors opened she allowed Sevant to exit first and took up position one step behind him on his right. She followed him into the auxiliary Observation Lounge silently. She knew what purpose it was now serving but wasn't sure why Sevant had brought her here. ~Guess I will find out shortly.~ Sevant turned to face her. "There was a time long ago that we both pledged to protect and defend the Constitution of the Federation from all threats, foreign and domestic. Your courage, your perseverance, has been exemplary. I have never had cause to regret your presence on my ship, I still don't. I am afraid; however, I must ask you one more favor in that pursuit." Sevant gestured to the room, "I need a Strategist, Colonel. I need an Officer that has proven to have an excellent grip on Tactical and Strategic Operations. I need a Strategic Operations Commander to command the strategic assets of the battle group while I'm tied up in combat on the bridge. There are very few that I would trust could do this job, even fewer I would not be loathe to give this command too. You, Colonel, are one of those few." He walked up to a desk and placed his hand on the backrest of a seat. "This is why you need your fire, Colonel. You have had the presence of mind, character and heart to send your three hundred into the fires, if necessary. Do you still have the strength of mind and character to command several thousand into the same fate?" Her eyes narrowed and she pursed her lips in contemplation. "And what of my marines?" She asked. "Who would lead them into battle were I to accept? Major Drizzt is gone and there are no other combat experienced marine officers that can fill the position." (Reply Sevant, Stakes, Any) (posted by Wes) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission: The Anointed, Day 29 Stardate: 2407.03.22 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - Capt Sevant - 1500) Sevant looked over the PADD for a few moments, continued therein was the sworn testimony of every living member of the Away Team that had been sent to retrieve Colonel Straton. Paradoxically, the shortest testimony that had been given had been given by the Colonel herself. Except for how she had found herself on the planet, and the few moments after she had 'awakened', everything she had done had been done as an amnesiac. He looked up and leaned back in his chair, thinking. The Observation Lounge was empty now; it had been for the last hour as he 'weighed' the evidence given. This wasn't a Court Martial, but it was a prelude to one. As Captain of a Starship without a JAG officer, Sevant had to decide if there was enough valid evidence to convene a court martial. Testimony had been given live non-stop since oh-eight hundred hours. Some testimony had had to been given by subspace communiqué, from Drizzt and Rivers, but it was no less binding for it. The outcome had been certain from the beginning; there would be a Court Martial. Even if she was legally not in control of herself, only a Court Martial could vindicate her. The fact he had taken an hour to deliberate the matter was less because it wasn't a clear-cut issue, and more because he was making sure his case on temporary dismissal was air-tight. It was, of course. Sevant placed the PADD on the table and tapped his badge, "Colonel Straton, Commander Stakes and Commander Stolev, report to the Observation Lounge Immediately." (reply: All three) The three wouldn't be far away, as was proven not a minute later when all three stepped into the room. Sevant gestured to the center of the room, before the table, where Straton stepped before coming to attention before him. Sevant looked at Stolev and Stakes for a moment, the two ranking members of his command staff. He folded his hands together over his PADD and said, "Commander Stakes, Commander Stolev. You two shall serve as witnesses to what transpires here, and shall testify before any JAG officer that inquires as to the specific outcome of this General Inquiry. Am I understood?" (reply: Stakes, Stolev) The Captain nodded and looked at Straton, "Colonel Eva Straton, Starfleet Marine Corps. After a thorough Inquest into your personal actions on the planet Iradon, from Stardate 2407.03.05 until 2407.03.12, as Officer of the Court I find sufficient evidence to warrant a general Court Martial. Let it be known that you stand accused of Murder, Willful and Deliberate Disregard of the Prime Directive in regards to the peoples of the planet Iradon. Willful and Deliberate disregard of the Federation's Telepathic Moral Laws, again in regards to the peoples of the planet Iradon in addition to the individual Officers and Crew of the Starfleet Away Team sent to retrieve you. And, finally, Conduct Unbecoming a Starfleet Marine." He paused, "There is no need to plead or formally acknowledge these charges at this time, this Inquiry is over and you shall be offered Council once a Court Martial can be arranged." Sevant stood, "Now that the Inquiry is officially over, I call upon Commander Stakes and Stolev to again bear witness. I, Captain Caladryll Sevant, do hereby place these charges and the ordered Court Martial in abeyance until such time as our State of Emergency has passed, for the good of the ship. I do so on this date, 2407.03.22, with and under the full authority of the Articles of War- the Federation then being in a State of War." He looked back at Straton after looking deeply into the faces of his two command officers. "Understand me, Colonel. You shall stand and answer these charges, but not until your essential duties to the ship have been dispensed and we are not in open conflict. Until that time, you shall continue as a full member of the crew without the specter of being condemned, you are innocent until proven guilty." Sevant picked up his PADD, "These are my orders on this subject. All three of you shall sign it as witnesses. Signing does not, under any circumstance, denote that you agree with my decision or precipitated it... only that you bare witness." He placed the PADD on the table again, "Proceed." (reply: Stakes, Stolev, Straton) (posted by Trout) NRPG: Puppets! He's using puppets? On a sci-fi show? Isn't that a bit ludi.... Hey, who's that behind you? Is that a hand up your...? Hey what are you doing? Don't come near me! There's nothing above me! Hey, don't cut tho.... -USS Boudicca, NCC 49901 Star Trek: Freedom - http://www.startrekfreedom.com