Compile break down: Day: 183 (U.S.S. Dennison – Ready Room – Ops - Ensign Chance Raschen - 1935) (USS Dennison, Ready Room, Commander Trevan West, 2307.5) (Starbase Geneva – Stakes's temporary personal quarters – Captain Archibald Stakes – 23:39) (Starbase Geneva – Stakes's temporary personal quarters - Captain Archibald Stakes – 2350) (Starbase Geneva - Transient Officers Quarters - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 2355) Day: 184 (Starbase Geneva - Starbase Administration - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 0545) (Starbase Geneva - Holosuite 12:C - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 0550) (Starbase Geneva - Holosuite 12:C - Holo-Marine Jose Rameriz - 0600) (Starbase Geneva - Holosuite 12:C - Ensign Mia Simmons - 0603) (USS Dennison - Counselor's Office - Lt. Alosar and Ensign Miandra- 0700) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CMO Dr Nymes - 0801) (USS Dennison- Counselor's Office- ATac Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 0830) (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 0931) (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – Commander Trevan West- 0931.5) (Starbase Geneva- Holo-suite 12- ATac Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 1130) (USS Dennison - Sickbay - CMO Nymes - 1330) (USS Dennison - Sickbay - CMO Nymes - 1345) (USS Dennison - Deck 7, Conn's Office - CONN Elenor Night - 1600) ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2408.01.08 Day: 183 ********************************************************* (U.S.S. Dennison – Ready Room – Ops - Ensign Chance Raschen - 1935) "I will follow your recommendation, Ensign, and consider the psychological back ground, but you must be aware that under Federation law personal issues can not change a guilty verdict into a not guilty one. They may have an impact on the sentencing, but not on the decision. Also be reminded that if your personal situation led to a dereliction of duty, one of the questions raised at the hearing will be if a person with such a mind set should be allowed to continue to serve as Star Fleet officer." Archibald nodded. "It would be far preferable, Ensign, if this situation never arose, wouldn't you agree?" "Yes sir, I understand what you are saying. So to maybe make it easier on you as well as others on this ship I would like to ask about the possibility of a transfer to attempt a fresh start sir." (Reply Stakes) "Honestly and candidly sir...I can't work with Commander McDermott. Every time I try to do the right thing; he tries to have me thrown into the brig. I probably go about it the wrong way, but I seem to rub him the wrong way and I feel it would be better for this ship if I were elsewhere sir." (Posted by Charlie) === (USS Dennison, Ready Room, Commander Trevan West, 2307.5) "I do not envy you your position, Mister West. It looks like you will the piece of rope used in a tug of war between SFI and Star Fleet. And I am afraid that I will do my best to win it. Nothing personal, just duty. And as such, Commander, I *will* expect you to place your Star Fleet duty before all else. However, I will seek further advice on the matter. Until then, I believe it best that you continue as before. I do not wish SFI to start pulling the rope until I learn how hard I am allowed to pull back." "I understand sir, and I always place Fleet duty above anything else, as you stated I am an officer first and an agent second," replied Trevan. Upon thinking he added, "I know how that came out sir. It was not my intention to suggest that your orders are less important than SFI. This is just what was explained to me when I was um....recruited." "Well then, gentlemen. Oh, before I forget, did either of you have given any thought on how and when we notify the senior staff of the changes in command structure?" "That will be in tomorrow's mission briefing sir." West responded to which Archibald nodded. "Then make it so," Archibald ended. (Posted by Kerry Fletcher) === (Starbase Geneva – Stakes's temporary personal quarters – Captain Archibald Stakes – 23:39) "Thank you, Captain, for bringing this matter to our attention." came the non-committal response that Archibald had expected once it became clear to him that his secure link from the Starbase got nowhere but a junior assistant administrative clerk in Admiral Toshoga's staff to respond to his call. He knew that bureaucracy was bad in STHQ, especially the higher up you tried to reach someone. But as he had considered before, going through the route of filing his questions via the staff of Admiral LoDona, would have meant a further delay. Admirals were remarkably quick to locate you if they needed you but extremely hard to locate if you needed them. And the matter was not a 52nd fleet-matter, anyway. "We will endeavour to ..." Suddenly the screen went dark. Archibald frowned and considered that the the clerk might have made a mistake or decided that he couldn't be bothered and after a few seconds reached to flip down the screen when suddenly a scrambled voice whispered through the computer: "Are you alone, Captain?" "No," Archibald responded frowning heavily now. "My wife is in the other room and both my children are in the attached bedrooms, asleep." "Tell the Admiral to go shopping and ensure your children are asleep." There was something in the heavily disguised voice that made Archibald get up, pass on the message to Lydia and checked the bedrooms. As he returned he saw Lydia go outside with a rather angry expression on her face. But she did so none the less. As he returned to the room and Archibald sat down behind the computer, he waited for a second, unsure what to say. "I .... " he started but then he gulped as the screen turned on again and two peering eyes under very bushy eyebrows peered at him. The face in which the eyes were set was remarkably known to him, to anyone in Star Fleet, in fact. "Admiral Benn.." he started croaking but stopped when the figure in front of him raised his hand. "You are Captain Stakes of the USS Dennison", the CINC said and it was a statement, not a question. So Archibald did not react, Not that he could have, his voice was still too shaky. "So what do you know?" the voice came back. "Know, Sir?" Archibald managed to bring out reasonably clear. "Yes, man, know! About what John's intentions are!" It took only a split second to allow Archibald to work out that the CINC was most likely referring to John Merriweather, the CINC of SFI. "I don't know anything about Admiral Merriweather's intentions, Sir," Archibald responded and was rewarded with a grunt. "Then stop waisting my time, man," the man said and was seem to reach for the off button but his hand then stopped. "Dennison?" he asked. "Ohhh, that might actually prove interesting, Captain .... uhhh, Stakes was it?" Archibald saw the man glance down. "Yes, Archibald. You might be able to do me a little favour. Interesting timing of yours, I must admit. You see, John has been approaching me with this file about the Manolians, Metorians, well, whatever, and he seems to think that they might pose a threat to the Federation. So he wants to gather some data about them. To assess the risks, that kind of thing. Basically, Archibald, as your vessel was mentioned I want you to assist SFI in any way, shape or form. You will probably get a request to do so soon. Accept it. And follow. And observe. And once you have confirmation of any nefarious activities you will act. I will be da**ed if I was the one leading the Federation into another war. Of course, you are not to mention this to anyone and will receive no official backing, what so ever. But then again, you don't need that, do you? Ok, you know what I want, Captain. Make it so." The screen went dark again and somehow Archibald realised that it was definite now that the line had been cut. He stepped out of the little working room and entered his lounge until he suddenly remembered Lydia. He walked out of the door and saw her standing outside, leaning against the wall opposite of the door. She shot him a questioning glance but as he did not react she sighed and stepped past him into the room. (Starbase Geneva – Stakes's temporary personal quarters - Captain Archibald Stakes – 2350) "So are we going to see you tomorrow at a reasonable time?" Lydia asked him as they were about to enter the bedroom. "Bill was quite upset when you didn't show up. As was Esme." Archibald sighed. " I know," he started, "but it was just the way things went. But I'll try to keep my diary clear for y..." =/\= West to Captain Stakes, my apologies sir for contacting you at this hour but I need to call a Starfleet Intelligence Briefing for 0600 hours tomorrow. Everyone must attend, no exceptions. =/\= ~Oh, really?~ Archibald thought but then his better judgment kicked in. He tapped his badge. "When you mean an Intelligence briefing, I assume you want a meeting with the staff of the Dennison. At six hundred? Is this absolutely necessary?" =/\= Sorry sir, it needs to be done. =/\= Archibald rolled his eyes as Lydia puffed her cheeks. "Ok, Commander, would you mind telling me what it is going to be about?" Archibald responded although he thought he knew already the answer. And he suddenly realised that SFI would never need to ask him to assist, they were on that mission already. =/\= Yes, it involves the status of our current mission, =/\= Trevan confirmed Archibald's line of thoughts. "Then I guess you better make it happen, Mister West," Archibald replied. Well, he was ordered to comply, even though officially there was no order to do so. But you didn't become a CO without a certain amount of flexibility. "If nothing else then I will retire now for the night, Commander. Seems I have an early start tomorrow morning." =/\= Goodnight sir. West out. =/\= the response came. He sighed as he saw Lydia look at him. "Problems?" she asked to which Archibald shook his head. "No, inexperience, I think." "Inexperience? He's Commander, right?" Archibald shot his wife a grin. "Inexperience with dealing with me," he added. Lydia snapped her mouth shut and thought for a second. "Yeah, I think I can see that ........ yeah." (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (Starbase Geneva - Transient Officers Quarters - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 2355) The insistent chirping finally got through the exhaustion induced fog. Her bladder was also nagging. Mia managed to roll over and shrugged out of the blanket. She gave the terminal a hairy eyeball and saw that it wasn't a priority message. She could visit the head first. Feeling only somewhat fogged she found the demand she attend an Intel meeting on the ship that was, last she'd heard, not open to crew during repairs. The next message was one from the counsellor's office saying she couldn't possibly attend because she wasn't cleared for duty until she chatted up one Lieutenant Alosar; Chief Counselling officer. "Oh.. Goody." she muttered. Not that she minded counsellors, she minded the conflicting orders. Now she'd have to decide who had priority, a counsellor or a Starfleet intel ghost. There was a brief moment where Mia wished she had the computer know how to make it look like the first message had bypassed her terminal completely and gotten lost in netherspace. Thumping her head lightly against the wall since she couldn't do that, she decided to worry about it at 0530. She was too tired to think about it now. ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2408.01.09 Day: 184 ********************************************************* (Starbase Geneva - Starbase Administration - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 0545) "So," Mia concluded, "I have absolutely NO idea if I'm supposed to be attending this meeting," she hid a yawn behind her hand, "or if I'm supposed to go park my butt on the couch in counselling." The Lieutenant was looking amused, "Well, the case can be made either way Ensign. Let me ask you this, do you WANT to go to the meeting?" "No." Mia answered with more honesty than tact, "I would much rather go back to sleep." "Well, then, it's my informed and experienced opinion that you should go catch up on your sleep and then report to the Dennison's Chief Counsellor at your earliest opportunity.. say, 0900?" Was the suggestion with a smile on the woman's face. "That sounds wonderful. Thank you Commander!" Mia shook the woman's hand and didn't quite flee. It had been a moment of inspiration when she'd been walking past the admin centre to find someone who would know. She'd actually been looking for an Esme who could quote rules and protocols backwards and forwards, but had been intercepted by an officer. She stopped at a panel and looked up her energy credits, saw she had plenty and checked for an empty holo-suite or deck. Perfect place for a truly relaxing snooze! (posted by Lorna) === (Starbase Geneva - Holosuite 12:C - Ensign Miandra Simmons - 0550) Mia selected the first tropical island simulation she found in the list and entered the holosuite. As soon as the doors closed she was shucking her uniform, leaving a trail of clothes across the sand. One boot got stuck in a palm tree when she tossed it with a bit more enthusiasm than necessary. Oh well, it'd fall down when she ended the program. An easy dive and she was in the warm, salty waters of who knew what planet. Her gills rapidly taking over and the feeling of relaxation washing through her body as she had no cares or worries beyond the waters around her. Flipping over onto her back, she let herself drift. Now this was heaven. If only she could live in a holosuite between shifts.. (Starbase Geneva - Holosuite 12:C - Holo-Marine Jose Rameriz - 0600) Rameriz was bored. Bored, bored, bored, bored. He'd examined every single room on Starbase Geneva. He'd evaluated the readiness of Starbase Geneva for attack. He'd been left behind when the troop he was supposedly assigned to went to go dig out some colonists after their weather satellite failed. He was bored. He flitted through various holo-suites, but the major problem was, there just wasn't much going on and he was just a ghost in the machine. He stopped for a moment in the Gilligan's Island program to look up more fun for him to get into when he noticed the bits of uniform strewn about. It was curious because it was only ONE uniform, and not two. Normally in such scenarios you'd find a privacy flag and two occupants, not just one. Maybe that said occupant - one Miandra Simmons, apparently - was waiting for that partner? But, no the logs showed it was general access, not specific. Rameriz decided it was the gentlemanly thing to do to explain to the ensign how to turn on privacy settings and waded out into the water. Good things holograms didn't need to breath. (Starbase Geneva - Holosuite 12:C - Ensign Mia Simmons - 0603) Mia felt the presence watching her before she actually opened her eyes. She was very startled, to say the least, to see a short man in a marine uniform seemingly standing upright in the deep water watching her. Startled, she swung herself into a defensive position and signed a very impolite directive demanding him to explain his presence. Rameriz wasn't familiar with Aquadrian sign, which was probably based on American sign the same way Marine sign was, but he got the gist of that one when it looked like she was looking for a dagger. "No worries chica! I'm just Rameriz!" Mia was astonished, how was this.. this.. human??.. talking in water. How was he breathing? "I just wanteds to tell you that you hadn't set the privacy locks and.." the siren suddenly kicked up towards the surface, shrugging Rameriz decided to follow. Since the marine apparently didn't know simple sign, Mia decided it was probably for the best to communicate vocally, and since she needed oxygen and air to do that in, she surfaced rapidly, exhaling water and reinflating her lungs. Not a pleasurable experience, but one got used to it. "I really don't care if people share the program with me, I just don't expect them to stand around staring at me!" she told the man who had seemingly followed her up, ignoring the laws of physics. "Well, yer nakked!" Jose protested, "One would think that nakked chicas would want privacy!" he flailed his arms around, the computer unsure if he wanted to interact with the water or not let him splash a couple of times. What WAS this guy? "Of course I'm naked. I'm swimming!" Mia wasn't really in the mood for puritan values of the mixed Terran feelings. Half of them didn't see the problem, half of them had hissy fits while the third half flip-flopped in mathmatical uncertainty. "But.." Jose decided at this time the chica was obviously just insane. He thought about the situation for half a heartbeat. "So, you's wanna do something while you're's naked??" "WHAT?" Mia had heard less delicate propositions in her time, but she couldn't remember when at this point. "Who the hell are you?" "Oh. I am holo-marine Jose Rameriz!" he said proudly, "Based on Lance Corporal Jose Rameriz and spread through out the 52nd fleet." "Like a virus, I bet." Mia muttered, before perking up and smiling, "Well, then, holo-marine Jose Rameriz.. Get the hell out of my holosuite and holoprogram and STAY OUT." Rameriz was about to protest when the computer overrode him and tossed him back into the core. He'd have to work on the computer thinking it could control him.. Mia was happy to see the strange hologram disappear and shook her head. Damn, there was no way she was getting back to sleep NOW, she might as well go find that counsellor. (posted by Lorna) === (USS Dennison - Counselor's Office - Lt. Alosar and Ensign Miandra- 0700) Mia covered her yawns with the back of her hand as she walked into the counseling department. It was frustrating to short one's self on sleep just to find out you weren't allowed to take your duty station until a counselor said she could. She looked around the common area and saw no one at the desk to let the on duty counselors know she was here. Hopefully they had a chime or checked at the end of appointments or something. Mia settled into the couch and picked up one of the books on the table. "Treasure Island" the side said. She couldn't say she'd actually touched many books, replicated or produced in her lifetime. She'd not even known such things existed before arriving on Earth. So it was with no little interest that she opened the cover while she waited for a counselor to have time for her. The automated chime went off telling Alosar that someone had stepped into the waiting area for the counselors. He was curious who would be in at this time. There were, of course, some that he would have expected. As he stepped into the waiting room he noted that it was one of his suspects. He just hadn't expected her to come so easily. In fact, he thought that he was going to have to have her escorted there under guard. Still, the usual human pleasantries seemed a necessity. "Can I help you Ensign?" he asked. "Oh, sorry sir," Mia said standing and putting down the book. "I'm Ensign Miandra Simmons, I've been informed that due to my not having done a post-traumatic evaluation I'm not entitled to take my post aboard the Dennison; even though I was suited to take my post on the Boudicca just a little while ago." Alosar remained unflinching as the passive aggressive manner that Simmons had taken. "Yes, I can see why that might confuse you. However, as I am ships counselor of THIS ship, it is my duty to ensure that all crew are able to perform to the best of their abilities. So if you would excuse my boldness, perhaps we could talk for just a little while. Please, come into my office." He turned and led Simmons inside his office and the door closed. His office was functional. He knew that most species appreciated some decorative art and so he had procured several interesting paintings. He had no idea of the aesthetic value of the paintings, but he found them interesting. He also had found several pieces of Vulcan sculptures to adorn his cabinets. Beyond that there was only the usual furniture that one might find in a counselors office. "Oh, I'm sorry Sir, I didn't realize it was a counselor request not a bureaucratic hiccup." She explained as she followed him into the spartan office. She had to approve, she found most members of Starfleet collected THINGS with great fondness. While she did practice her art, it was always small and portable. Of course, if she stayed on any ship long, she'd probably find herself being weighed down with material objects herself. She took one of the chairs and was surprised by its softness. Normally Starfleet went in for 'almost comfortable with too much back support.' "Apologies are not necessary Ensign," Alosar said plainly. They were, in fact, irrelevant to the current situation. "However your reaction says to me that this was not unexpected." Mia smiled, "Well, I suppose I should have expected an intake review from both yourself and the CMO, but I expected to be given a time guide not a summons before I could attend duty." "Indeed," Alosar said with an raised eyebrow. "Can you not think of a reason that I would want to meet with you before you take up your duties?" "Well, I'm assuming you've read my files, where did you want to start?" Mia asked, not sure what this meeting was about. She'd not talked to a counselor professionally since her second year in the academy. "I have read your file. What do you think that this is about?" he asked. "Well, I would guess mental suitability for being responsible for the operation and navigation of a Star Fleet vessel." Mia replied amiably. "But, how you judge that would be beyond me. This is my first review since the academy." "Then perhaps it is past time for another," Alosar stated. "I would like to discuss what happened on Valhalla." Mia tilted her head to one side, "Not much of anything sir. I got locked up, I was given a tub to stay healthy and I was bored out of my mind for a very long time. I'm very much happy to be free and serving the Starfleet I joined." "I would think so," Alosar replied. "There was no evidence that they interrogated you or even interacted with you in any way?" "Oh, well, they did interact, I guess. I don't think I knew anything worth interrogating for. Mostly it was the guards bullying the prisoners for not believing what they did." "And what was it that they did?" he asked. "Oh you know, the typical boorish guard behavior; spitting in your food, trying to make you beg for drinking water, calling you names, shoving you around if they let you out of your cage. That sort of thing." Mia didn't seem to be particularly upset about it personally, but disapproving in general. "We reported it all to the then-Commander Stakes and he said he would take appropriate action." "I see," he continued, "but what did you not believe?" Mia looked confused at the question. "About what sir?" "You said that the guards bullied the prisoners for not believeing what they did. What was it that you did not believe?" "Oh, I'm sorry sir." Mia shrugged one shoulder, "Well, I suspect we were supposed to believe that Admiral Donut.. er, Doenitz, was the supreme leader of all, the best fascist to ever exist and to love his rule and approve his genocide. As I'm sure you can tell, I didn't agree with any of the above." Alosar realized that there was a slight communication error, and decided to move on. He looked into the eyes of the young Aquadran. By human standards she was quite lovely. The did have an aesthetic charm to them. "Let's go back to Commander Stakes. I take it you do not feel that he took appropriate action then?" "I have no idea what he did or didn't do," Mia replied with a smile, "I don't tend to check up on what my COs are doing. I just fly the shuttle, or ship, or plane, or whatever is necessary." "So you are telling me that you took the trouble of reporting the treatment to the then Commander Stakes, and have no intention to discover what action was taken? That is a most... Vulcan attitude Ensign. I congratulate you on your separation from your emotions." That got Mia to look rather quizzical, "I don't think it's a separation from my emotions so much as knowing what is, or isn't, my business. I have faith that Captain Stakes took appropriate action and I don't think it's my place to check up on him... is it?" "I am not disputing your logic, Ensign," Alosar said. "It is just not the view point that I have had experience with in most humans. It has been my experience that when any emotionally ridden person has been treated badly, they at least have a vested interest in what happens to their assailants, considering that you did care enough to actually lodge a complaint." "Oh." Mia thought about that for several moments, "I'm just not much of the type to worry about the past or future, I try to deal with what's on my plate at the given moment. As far as I'm concerned, those louts got what they deserved and they won't be doing it again so ... problem solved... move on to the next problem." Again the counselor was impressed. "Again, a most admirable attitude. Perhaps you could share it with the others on this ship." Mia shrugged, "I'm not much for telling others how to live their lives, or not. If they ask, I'd be happy to share though." Alosar sat up in his seat and leaned back, indicating that he was done. "In that case, Ensign, unless you have anything that you would care to discuss with me further, I am finished, and you may report for duty." Mia looked a bit startled and looked relieved, "Well, glad to hear I'm within acceptable parameters." She stood up, "Though, sir, if I'm not being presumptuous and nosey. I would love to drag you out for coffee at some point and find out how you chose to become a counselor." Alosar scowled. Although he understood the concept of humor, he did not always appreciate its application. Still, the invitation seemed valid. "Although I believe that the answer would be some what less stimulating than you might think, I would accept your offer. I do not consider it presumptuous, and nosey, as I understand the phrase, would only be if you pry into business that I would rather you did not. So far, you are safe." Mia gave a wide, toothy smile, "Well, as long as you're happy to tell me to butt out when I get presumptuous. Let me know when you're available. I should probably go see what I should be doing next to get properly assigned to the Dennison." Alosar stood up and watched the dark complexioned woman stand as well. Her smile was ... welcoming. "Indeed. Have a good shift Ensign. I will send you my itinerary and we can find a mutually acceptable time to get together." "I look forward to it," she said, eyes dancing as she took her leave. She didn't understand why people said Vulcans were stand-offish and antisocial, they seemed perfectly friendly to her! (posted by Al Muir and Lorna Appleby) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CMO Dr Nymes - 0801) Nymes silently rolled his eyes in his mind as this windbag once again confirmed his initial perception of the new captain; a windbag with zero on the ground common sense. When he was given an opportunity to respond, Nymes stated his point of view, politely, firmly, but intelligently. "Primo Non nocere, Sir. The one over-riding rule of Medicine. And as such, overriding everything else. If that means not leaving for a briefing on time, then so be it. Rank doesn't transcend that one principle, nor would I succumb to any bullying regarding it. I will do my job, as I have in the past, and do it successfully - I trust you have read the previous logs, and how despite all the problems I have maintained medical practice throughout, and saved the lives of not just one, nor two, but three of the command staff, even if the rules had to be bent on one occassion to ensure survival. "It was for my abilities that Admiral Gri'ann recommended me to this post, and I have served with conviction, representing an important, and alternative, view at the table during senior staff. I trust you realise that my department has had no disciplinary problems since that status was conferred. "I feel sure that there is a way we can work together, sir. But I am a Doctor, sir, just as you are a Captain, and will be addressed as such, if you please" (Posted by GC) === ( USS Dennison- Counselor's Office- ATac Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 0830) Ben walked into the Dennison's counselling department. He assumed that Lieutenant Alosar and read his record and wanted to discuss his feelings about his parents death. It had been a while since he had spoken to anyone about the subject and was not sure that he wanted to, but if it meant proving that he was fit for duty Ben would have to discuss the situation with the Lieutenant. Ben walked around the room for a moment before sitting in a chair. the table in front of him held a selection of books. Not finding a title that caught his attention Ben settled for sitting and waiting for his summons to enter the Counselor's office. ~ The last time I was in this position a couple grief counselor's wanted me to pour out my soul. Sure my parents death was a difficult time for me but over time I learned to accept it and move on with my life.~ ( posted by Milo Young) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 0931) Chance waited until Eric had closed the comm before speaking "Sir, while we wait for Commander West may I ask you a semi-personal question?" McDermott looked at Chance for a moment and then said coldly, "It does not seem to concern you that I have never given you the leave to speak freely to me so why concern yourself at this…very late stage?" Chance responded with, "Well I know you can recite rules and regulations from memory and that seems to give you a pillar of strength; my question to you is this…do you relate rank with experience?" McDermott almost smiled and a distinctly amused look came over his face, which was very unusual for him. "Ah…experience." Again reaching forward he entered several commands into his terminal before answering. "In answer to your question Mr. Raschen I equate rank with merit. In Starfleet one achieves rank through they're past history of actions, conduct and attention to duty, which I might add also includes adherence to regulations. That being the case a certain amount of experience and time in service can and in many cases does also affect an officer's position or rank." McDermott paused and looked up at Raschen continuing with, "However to use your word, it has also been my…experience that longevity of service does not always equal seniority in rank. To be blunt Mr. Raschen I have heard this same whine from more than one older officer who has failed to achieve the promotions or ranking that they seem to feel that they deserve. Every one of these officers has failed to realize that age and time in service does not entitle them to a specific rank or position. Only through actions and service does one advance in Starfleet, in other words merit Mr. Raschen, not the amount of dust that has collected on you while you have been at the same rank and position." It was at that point that Commander West entered the office. Trevan rang the door chime to the office and then entered. "You wanted to see me Eric?" he asked. McDermott pulled his stare off of Raschen for a moment and nodding to West he said, "I'm sorry to have pulled you away Trevan I know you're buried right now but this is a matter that concerns you personally and I didn't feel it was right to keep you in the dark about it." Gesturing at Raschen he went on with, "It seems that Mr. Raschen here has questions about our conduct as officers, our fitness for our positions and just about everything else so I thought you might like to have the opportunity to respond." With a flourishing gesture to Raschen he sat back and waited to see what else the foolish Ensign had to say for himself. "I felt this needed to be solved at the lowest possible level, which is why I came to you two because unfortunately the problem is starting from rumors about the both of you, thus making you the lowest level by default sirs." McDermott did not respond or make any encouraging gestures whatsoever but just continued to give Raschen his polite attention. (Reply: West) "Well sirs, I didn't see it so I don't know. But the story I heard was that if someone hadn't walked in, you two would have been serving up knuckle sandwiches to one another. And because someone supposedly saw you give each other dirty, threatening looks in the briefing room a couple of hours ago, and mentioned it to a friend who told a buddy; well now not more than 30 minutes ago a small handful of folks were already having a debate in Ten-Forward on which one of you they should support incase something happened to the new skipper and there is a power struggle between you two. I might be wrong but this could impact on the vessel's operational readiness." McDermott did not believe more than perhaps every third word that he was hearing and it was blatantly obvious as to who was the rumormonger. Raschen's own warped perceptions on how things should function aboard a ship affected the 'story' he was telling and made it all too clear who was the perpetrator. He was still nothing more than a pirate in Starfleet uniform. Glancing at West it was all McDermott could do to not burst into laughter as Trevan looked as though an Orion Dancing girl had just walked unannounced into the office and threw a glass of Saurian Brandy into his face and then walked back out…naked. Turning back to Raschen, Eric responded first to give West a chance to recover some composure. "Mr. Raschen…Commander West and myself have too much respect for each other and the regulations to even stoop to physically attacking each other and neither of us has cause to do so in any rate." "As for this mythological conflict between the two of us over command of this vessel should it ever become necessary in the incapacity of Captain Stakes, Commander West would take command as he has the most seniority in rank and has already commanded the Dennison in the past. You see Ensign I follow regulations…to-the-letter!" McDermott paused for a moment to allow West to react. (Reply: West) Incredibly Raschen forged ahead, "With over a decade of experience as a ship's captain under my own belt, I suggest that the crew needs to SEE (and not just hear) that you are able to function cohesively together. You two need to set the example if you expect the rest of the crew to put their differences aside and work together." McDermott was having a hard time containing his anger at this point and said, "So you think that due to your past…experiences you feel you are qualified and have the right to question us, our integrity and conduct despite the fact that you have violated protocol and regulations in doing so." "Yes sir, a little I guess; but does that make what I've said any less true sir?" McDermott's hands were trembling so he deliberately kept them in his lap and under the desk, as it would not serve any purpose to allow anyone to see how angry he really was. West seemed to realize how angry Eric was at this point and stepped in. (Reply: West) When Trevan had his say Eric stepped in not allowing Raschen a chance to speak again saying, "I have had enough of this Mr. Raschen. I don't care what rank you gave yourself on whatever converted garbage scow that you commanded during your days as a pirate. I am militantly disinterested in the fact that you are a decade older than I am, nor do I take into account the added experience that you seem to think this gives you." "Commander West and I have worked our way through the ranks and have earned our positions here in Starfleet, our service is a matter of record. Neither of us has to tolerate this kind of insubordination, disrespect and contempt." Touching a button on his desk the door to his office opened and two Security Officers stepped in. Standing up McDermott looked at Raschen and the contempt in his eyes was clear as he said, "Ensign Raschen I am placing you under arrest for disrespect to a senior officer, gross insubordination and conduct unbecoming of a Starfleet Officer." Turning to the two Security Officers, Eric said, "Ensign Raschen is to be taken to the brig where he is to surrender his uniform, willingly or otherwise. He is to be scanned medically to ensure that he has no hidden devices or other objects upon or within him and then he is to be allowed brig clothing only. He is to be placed in solitary confinement with only basic sustenance provided until further notice." Turning back to Raschen he said, "The Captain will decide your fate now get the hell out of my office." McDermott watched as the Security Officers hustled the prisoner out and when the door had closed he buried his face in his hands and rubbed his face. Looking up at West he said, "I'm sorry to have dragged you into this but I didn't think it was right to keep it from you either." (Posted By: Ken Thacker) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – Commander Trevan West- 0931.5) It was at that point that Commander West entered the office. Trevan rang the door chime to the office and then entered. "You wanted to see me Eric?" he asked. McDermott pulled his stare off of Raschen for a moment and nodding to West he said, "I'm sorry to have pulled you away Trevan I know you're buried right now but this is a matter that concerns you personally and I didn't feel it was right to keep you in the dark about it." Trevan had no idea what the hell was going on. ~In the dark about what~ he thought. Eric seemed to sense the confusion. Gesturing at Raschen he went on with, "It seems that Mr. Raschen here has questions about our conduct as officers, our fitness for our positions and just about everything else so I thought you might like to have the opportunity to respond." ~Does he now!~ was another thought to run through Trevan's mind. With a flourishing gesture to Raschen he sat back and waited to see what else the foolish Ensign had to say for himself. "I felt this needed to be solved at the lowest possible level, which is why I came to you two because unfortunately the problem is starting from rumors about the both of you, thus making you the lowest level by default sirs." McDermott did not respond or make any encouraging gestures whatsoever but just continued to give Raschen his polite attention. "Well sirs, I didn't see it so I don't know. But the story I heard was that if someone hadn't walked in, you two would have been serving up knuckle sandwiches to one another. And because someone supposedly saw you give each other dirty, threatening looks in the briefing room a couple of hours ago, and mentioned it to a friend who told a buddy; well now not more than 30 minutes ago a small handful of folks were already having a debate in Ten-Forward on which one of you they should support incase something happened to the new skipper and there is a power struggle between you two. I might be wrong but this could impact on the vessel's operational readiness." McDermott did not believe more than perhaps every third word that he was hearing and it was blatantly obvious as to who was the rumormonger. Raschen's own warped perceptions on how things should function aboard a ship affected the 'story' he was telling and made it all too clear who was the perpetrator. He was still nothing more than a pirate in Starfleet uniform. Glancing at West it was all McDermott could do to not burst into laughter as Trevan looked as though an Orion Dancing girl had just walked unannounced into the office and threw a glass of Saurian Brandy into his face and then walked back out…naked. Turning back to Raschen, Eric responded first to give West a chance to recover some composure. "Mr. Raschen…Commander West and myself have too much respect for each other and the regulations to even stoop to physically attacking each other and neither of us has cause to do so in any rate." "As for this mythological conflict between the two of us over command of this vessel should it ever become necessary in the incapacity of Captain Stakes, Commander West would take command as he has the most seniority in rank and has already commanded the Dennison in the past. You see Ensign I follow regulations…to-the-letter!" McDermott paused for a moment to allow West to react. "As do I ENSIGN," said Trevan, "Are you a ship's counselor? No, didn't think so. So what makes you think that you can just stroll in here and think that you could even talk to any ranking officer like that?" he asked. Trevan the nicest guy on the planet was about to explode,so he took a deep breath and waited for a response. Incredibly Raschen forged ahead, "With over a decade of experience as a ship's captain under my own belt, I suggest that the crew needs to SEE (and not just hear) that you are able to function cohesively together. You two need to set the example if you expect the rest of the crew to put their differences aside and work together." McDermott was having a hard time containing his anger at this point and said, "So you think that due to your past…experiences you feel you are qualified and have the right to question us, our integrity and conduct despite the fact that you have violated protocol and regulations in doing so." "Yes sir, a little I guess; but does that make what I've said any less true sir?" McDermott's hands were trembling so he deliberately kept them in his lap and under the desk, as it would not serve any purpose to allow anyone to see how angry he really was. West seemed to realize how angry Eric was at this point and stepped in. Trevan placed a hand on Eric's shoulder to indicate that he would step in, "Ensign, I can't believe what I have just heard. I never thought I would see the day where an Ensign would dare question a commanding officer! You know, I thought I could trust you, and when you tried to take over the ship, you lost that trust. Since then, things were okay," he paused, "until now that is. If I had my way I would take you personally down, but that isn't how we run this ship. We aren't pirates, something that you seem to forget." he said slamming his fist into the wall. When Trevan had his say Eric stepped in not allowing Raschen a chance to speak again saying, "I have had enough of this Mr. Raschen. I don't care what rank you gave yourself on whatever converted garbage scow that you commanded during your days as a pirate. I am militantly disinterested in the fact that you are a decade older than I am, nor do I take into account the added experience that you seem to think this gives you." "Commander West and I have worked our way through the ranks and have earned our positions here in Starfleet, our service is a matter of record. Neither of us has to tolerate this kind of insubordination, disrespect and contempt." Touching a button on his desk the door to his office opened and two Security Officers stepped in. Standing up McDermott looked at Raschen and the contempt in his eyes was clear as he said, "Ensign Raschen I am placing you under arrest for disrespect to a senior officer, gross insubordination and conduct unbecoming of a Starfleet Officer." Turning to the two Security Officers, Eric said, "Ensign Raschen is to be taken to the brig where he is to surrender his uniform, willingly or otherwise. He is to be scanned medically to ensure that he has no hidden devices or other objects upon or within him and then he is to be allowed brig clothing only. He is to be placed in solitary confinement with only basic sustenance provided until further notice." Turning back to Raschen he said, "The Captain will decide your fate now get the hell out of my office." McDermott watched as the Security Officers hustled the prisoner out and when the door had closed he buried his face in his hands and rubbed his face. Looking up at West he said, "I'm sorry to have dragged you into this but I didn't think it was right to keep it from you either." Trevan nodded, "Thanks!" he said in his usual sarcastic tone, and then added in a more friendly voice, "but I do appreciate it. I couldn't believe what he said to you, for a moment I thought this may be a prank or something. I thought I was going to have to restrain you when he said he was qualified from being a 'captain' in the past," (reply McDermott) "Now, should we have our little talk now since I am here? Or should we do it in Ten Forward where people can see us have it out," he said smiling ear to ear. (Posted by Kerry Fletcher) === (Starbase Geneva- Holo-suite 12- ATac Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 1130) Ben stood in the middle of an open field, to his right was a stand of trees and off the left was a slow grade heading down to a valley. In front of him and behind him there were no obstacles. Ben was dressed in the Armour of a 19Th century samurai, he'd always admired the samurai's lifestyle. He began a series of stretches that he had been taught to him in various martial arts classes, they were intended to lossen the muscles and relax the mind. His movements would have to fluid if he was to prevail in the simulation. After he was adequately stretched out he drew his weapon of choice, a Japanese katana. Ben began by making a few practise swings to get a feel for the weapon, after a few moments he started twisting the sword around and passing it behind his back and changing hands. When he was ready he looked into the sky and said, " Begin program." Ben then noticed movement off to his right, something was lurking in the trees. He turned towards the movement and adopted a defensive posture, legs slightly bent and sword held across his chest. His assailant burst through the trees and ran towards him across the clearing. Ben waited for the attack and remained still, he wanted to read his adversaries actions. The attack came in a down ward slash which Ben deflected causing his opponent to stumble, taking advantage of the mistake Ben swung around and thrust his sword into his opponents back. The hologram fell to the ground and disappeared. ~ One down, two to go~ Ben thought as he once again adopted his defensive stance. This time the attack came from Ben's left side from the slope, another samurai was climbing up to the clearing. Ben turned towards the new arrival and almost missed the movement coming from the opposite side of the field. He saw a flash of light and ducked down just as a sword passed through the space his head had just occupied. With an upward slash Ben brought his opponents attack to an end. Remembering the samurai on the slope Ben quickly turned in that direction just in time to see his enemy swing his sword at Ben's midsection. Ben blocked the attempt and countered the attack, but his opponent was skilled and blocked his attempt to disembowel the samurai. Ben focused his actions and locked blades with his opponent. He looked into the eyes of his attacker and saw hate reflected back at him. Pushing with all his might Ben caught his opponent of balance and managed to bear him to the ground, the advantage never lasted long as the other samurai jumped back on his feet and began advancing once again. ~ Alright Ben be patient, wait for the attack and pick your moment~ The samurai held his distance for a few moments,but Ben never let his guard down. Allowing his opponent an opening was not what Ben was about to do.Steeping to the side Ben brought is sword to waist level, a good position to counter his opponents attack. Quickly the samurai stepped up to Ben and both began attacking and counterattacking. Swing after swing, counter after counter Ben began to tire, he stepped back and allowed his adversary some space. But the samurai was not tired and began to attack again. With a downward swing the samurai tried to relieve Ben of his sword arm, countering the attack Ben managed to impact the other samurai in the forearm. With the injury the samurai stepped back and regarded Ben with a puzzled look. ~ Thought it would be me with the injury didn't you~ Ben thought as he prepared for what he hoped would be his final attack. ~Lets see how good you are at reading my posture~ Ben moved in for the attack, the injured samurai held his ground. Ben brought his sword above his head and faked a swing at the samurai, and he fell for the bait. When the samurai attempted to counter the attack Ben dropped low and swung his sword at his opponents midsection. Realization hit the samurai's eyes but it was to late, he attempted to counter but Ben's sword had found its mark.The samurai fell to the ground and faded like the others. Ben stood and replaced his sword in it's saya with a slight twirl and said. " End program." Everything faded and Ben found himself standing against the holo-grid, dressed in fatigues. ~ That was a good workout~ Ben thought as he turned and exited the holo-suite. ( posted by Milo Young) === (USS Dennison - Sickbay - CMO Nymes - 1330) "Mr Porter.... your assistance please." Nymes said, calling out of his office, where he was sitting reviewing the daily requests. (reply Porter) "It's time to get the mandatory medicals completed for the new crewmembers. I'll need your help to get the senior officers done today; I'll take our new CO and his family, you can look over our new ACONN and OPs personnel. Once we've finished there, we'll get the new security personnel done... is that okay?" (reply Porter) "Fantastic, well, feel free to send a message to your patients when you are ready, Doctor Porter." (reply Porter) (USS Dennison - Sickbay - CMO Nymes - 1345) Nymes tapped his comm, opening a channel to Captain Stakes. "Captain, this is Doctor Nymes. I am informing you that Sickbay is ready to conduct the staff's mandatory physical examinations, including you and your staffs, at your convienence." (posted by GC) === (USS Dennison - Deck 7, Conn's Office - CONN Elenor Night - 1600) Ele had sat down in her chair finally, getting reaccustomed to the feeling of management of a department, instead of assisting in it. The office had needed some changes to it since Will's departure, and the Engineering staff had worked their magic, installing new systems throughout the ship, including in here. The replicator afforded little in the way of personal touches to the room, but a plant had been there when she had walked in, and it seemed innocuous enough, a small palm. Knowing that the Captain had requested a full update on CONN and staffing, Ele needed to talk to those who were availiable for the post, or even interested in it, especially after Ensign Lane's incapacitation. First off, it would be a meeting with her new understudy, Ensign Miandra Simmons, a rarity in herself, as an Aquadrian. Ele knew little of the species, and tapped her commlink open with an open mind. "Night to Miandra Simmons. Please report to the CONN Office, Deck 7 of the Dennison." (posted by GC) ******************************************************************** Th.th.th.th.th.th.th.th.that's all, Folks!