Compile break down: Day: 183 (USS Dennison – Ready Room – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 1849) (USS Dennison – Ready Room – CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1918) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes -2012) (USS Dennison - Captain's Ready Room - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 2043) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2207) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - Counselor - Lt. Alosar - 2209) (USS Dennison - Deck 18 Primary Main Engineering - MCPO Freeman - 2230) (USS Dennison - Bridge - MCPO Freeman - 2244) (U.S.S. Dennison – Ready Room – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 2309) Day: 184 (USS Dennison - Shrekt's Quarters - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 0455) (Dennison, Briefing Room, ATac Ensign jg Sanok, 0558) (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 0559) (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 06:00) (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - Ops Officer - Ensign Cattia Spero - 06:01) (USS Dennison- Briefing Room- ATac Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 0602) (USS Dennison, Briefing Room, Commander Trevan West and CSO/a2O Bracken, 0602.5) (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 0623) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 0803) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CMO -Dr Nymes - 0804) (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 0933) (USS Dennison - Ten Forward - Ensign Miandra Simmons & Commander Trevan West - 20:30) ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2408.01.08 Day: 183 ********************************************************* (USS Dennison – Ready Room – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 1849) Just as things seemed to be wrapping up the Captain brought up another issue that he had obviously just thought of. "Oh, gentlemen, I understand that the dock engineers are nearing the completion of the repairs and upgrading. From twenty-three hundred or thereabouts, the ship is going to be powered up completely and the ship will be fully accessible. However, I would suggest that we would not let the crew return until we are sure everything is working as it should be, which should be the day after tomorrow. Then, I understand there are a few days of testing, taking the ship out for trial run etcetera and the ship should be ready to be taken out in earnest in one week's time. I would suggest we hold the ceremony of changing of the command when the crew has returned, say in two days time?" McDermott nodded and said, "Yes sir. After our last dry dock experience it might be best to make sure everything is one hundred percent before we bring everyone back on board. As for the change in command ceremony I can go ahead and make arrangements for that if you'd like sir. Just let me know at your convenience on when you would like the exact time of the ceremony to be and I'll see to it." Archibald nodded. "In that case, gentlemen, you're dismissed." McDermott nodded and said, "Good day sir." (Posted by: Ken Thacker) === (USS Dennison – Ready Room – CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1918) Archibald regarded the young officer as she sighed. She seemed annoyed. Yet she kept her composure and responded with: “Yes sir. I’ll pass on your order as soon as I see her. With your permission?” "By all means," Archibald responded, nodding. "A pleasant evening, Lieutenant." he said as she walked out. Once she had left, Archibald leant back and pursed his lips, lost in momentary contemplation. The overall impression had been favourable. She had kept her composure even when things started to turn personal. He wondered if he should have brought up the mission but then considered that he was glad that he had. She seemed to come alive when science was discussed. And she reacted like many scientists that had crossed Archibald's path. With wonder and excitement at the prospect of new discoveries. Archibald nodded as he got up. Most favourable even if she still needed to learn to consider the ship and her needs first. (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2012) Archibald listened attentively as the Ensign continued with her story. Archibald regarded her for a few seconds, seeing if she would continue after mentioning the squadron. But it looked like the wounds were still raw. "Yet here you are, piloting a ship again. That tells me something about you, Ensign. And it's good," Archibald followed. "But I must admit I would like to know what the link was, if there was one. The destruction of a fighter squadron you mentioned. Was it an accident?" (posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - Captain's Ready Room - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 2043) Shrekt had followed the captain to his ready room and took a seat when it was offered to her. She stiffened when the captain mentioned her family. The war had been difficult for her family. Her eight siblings had been split on both sides. As with many officers serving in Star Fleet they didn't have as much say on whose side they were on when the war started. Getting messages to the other side had been difficult. Her father, while moderately ancient at 90, was still an active man and high ranked. He was a general and still went on daily runs with whatever unit was assigned to him. He prided himself on being in fighting trim and could give a good fight to men half his age. When the war started he sent out a note to his clan that they should do their duty and follow their orders. He encouraged them to fight as well as they could, to limit the casualties on both sides, to not make any stupid mistakes that cost lives. He closed his note with his love and family above all. Most of Shrekt's siblings and their respective progeny were in the marines or in tactical, only her youngest brother wasn't and his family was young. Luckily he had been assigned to a station that was on the edge of space doing research and was relatively untouched. The rest of her siblings had not been so lucky. At the start of the war, Shrekt had been about to be promoted to full commander, something she had been looking forward to. But the war did not take in personal wishes and desires. During the war, Shrekt was repelling a boarding action on the starbase she had been assigned to and encountered a unit being lead by one of her younger sisters, Elizabeth. It was the only encounter during the war that the Shrekts would face each other directly. Joan recalled the being in full armor and staring at her sister, both of them with eager warriors ready to do battle. No matter how much Joan and Elizabeth might have disliked each other, they were family. For tense moments both sides stared at each other before both sides ordered their men to stand down. Elizabeth gave Joan a hug and between the two of them decided that their fight would be between just them, not their units. They shrugged off their armor and faced off each other. The fight seemed to last forever for both were skilled combatants. Joan hadn't gone into the marines like Elizabeth, but it didn't mean she was a slouch at hand to hand. Elizabeth wasn't going to go down without a fight to her big sister and they traded barbs and quips. But the verbal exchange ended as the battle continued and when it was finally over, Joan had stood over her unconscious sister and ordered the boarders to withdraw. She allowed them to take Elizabeth with them. The fact that Elizabeth's unit had withdrawn was a testament to Elizabeth's leadership and the respect they had for her. The fact that Shrekt had allowed the enemy to depart had made her commanding officer furious and it cost her her promotion and a pip. Others had disagreed with her commander's decision, but Shrekt understood. But she had done what she had thought right. She bit her lip about being demoted, but ultimately she could live with herself. Not all her siblings had made it out of the war. She lost one brother and three sisters in the conflict, including Elizabeth. When Shrekt had attempted to find out what happened to Elizabeth, she had heard that her loss to Joan had sent her into a self destructive spiral. Shrekt regretted it, but she knew her family had a history of instability. They had lost Marcus after the Cardassian War. But now to have lost Henry, Elizabeth, Mary, and Catherine. Her father had not taken their loss well. He had done his utmost trying to end the war from where he was. He sustained an injury that forced him to replace one of his legs, so now he was in rehab. Shrekt wasn't sure how he would come out of it all. She hoped that he would not join his other children. As much as Elizabeth's death haunted Joan, she knew her father was in even worse shape. You would never know it to see him, though. She had gone to him to talk and he had sent her away saying he was fine and his therapy was going along swimmingly, showing off by walking around without the use of his cane. But she could see the loss in his eyes. Shrekt didn't know what stories the captain had heard about her family. So she chose her words carefully when she finally answered him. "General Shrekt is fine, sir, and ready to serve again as soon as Starfleet Medical gives him a clear bill of health." she replied, trying to appear unaffected. The captain shrugged and said, "As long as you remember that I do not allow for any shenanigans to happen on my ship, I think we might get on reasonably well, Lieutenant." "Of course, sir. I shall serve you and Starfleet to the best of my ability." Shrekt replied. (posted by Kaweo Kanoho) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2207) "You will, of course, have the complete cooperation of the counseling department Captain," Alosar replied. "However, I do not understand your assumption that there will be open rebellion. Do you feel that you do not carry enough authority to command those who used to a different regiment? I do not ask this to be insubordinate, sir, just to see where you believe you are with your own abilities. After all, open rebellion and mutiny on a Federation starship, although infrequent, has rarely been successful. There are many factors that would bring that to pass." Archibald nodded. He had always wondered what life would be like having a Vulcan counsellor. Now he knew. Difficult. "I said more or less open, Lieutenant. Most cases will be a grumble here and there, minor annoyances. Not of real importance. Then there will be a few who will grumble and if left unchecked create dissension amongst the ranks. Those I want you to find and treat. And then there are one or two that feel they are butterflies and can not cope with 'rough' treatment. So far I have come across two that might fall in that category, Mister Nymes and Mister Raschen. What can you tell me about them?" (posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - Counselor - Lt. Alosar - 2209) Alosar nodded in agreement with the CO's comments. He was most likely correct. No matter how inevitable change is, humans find it quite distasteful. Still, the captain was really just speaking his mind, and was, most likely, not really concerned for any form of a coup. When the captain asked about Nymes and Raschen, Alosar took a deep breath. "Lt. Nymes is a proficient physician. Quite capable of performing his duties in sickbay. He does, however, have a tendency to not think about his actions before taking them, which has led him to difficulties in his past. He was one of the personnel that I was brought on board to look into. Unfortunately I have found him to be quite elusive in my attempts to actually counsel him. He will ignore my requests to meet, or evade the meetings after acknowledging that we need to meet. If I were prone to such a response I would find him quite frustrating." Alosar shifted in his seat knowing full well that he had neglected to fulfill his duty in counseling the doctor. There had just been so many others that seemed to need much more immediate attention. "As for Ensign Raschen is another matter," Alosar stated. "I have had opportunities to speak with him. I find him to be moody, irrational, belligerent, and at times most disrespectful. He has had some hardships in his life, but instead of discussing them, he tends to hold the emotions in and so his judgment is often impaired. He is, what you might classify as, a loner. At first you might not think that as he seeks as much companionship, especially female companionship, with relish. However, he rarely stays in a relationship, or a conversation. I have also found that he will take unnecessary risks, putting himself and sometimes others, in harms way. His solutions to problems are usually successful, but also require a certain amount of... luck. And so far he has been quite lucky." Alosar sat back in his seat. "I have painted a rather bleak picture of the ensign, but he also feels things quite deeply. I would imagine that if he felt that you were his friend he would step in front of a disruptor blast to save your life. He is also quite an adequate pilot. Although, again, he has made some questionable judgments about some of his decisions. I'm sure you already have those reports." Alosar stopped and looked at the CO, wondering if he had enough information. (posted by Al Muir) === (USS Dennison - Deck 18 Primary Main Engineering - MCPO Freeman - 2230) ~I have put this off long enough,~ thought Master Chief Freeman as read, for the fourth time, his report to the Engineering Dockmaster. ~Heads are gonna roll when this gets out... but what choice do I have? Federation before Fleet... Fleet before Friends... Friends before Self. Gah. I hate this. Why do they insist on screwing things up so I get placed in this position? Want to be a screw up... so be it. Do your job or be done by it!~ He stared at the controls before him for another short moment, then hit the button which sent the message packet on its way up the chain of command. Only one thing... well, two, actually left to do. First the call. "Computer open a secure channel, personal transmission. Recipient: Chief Petty Officer Larry Bock, Callisto repair yard. Authorization Freeman Four Alpha." [Initiating Transmission. Stand by.] As he waited Butch's thoughts drifted back to the last meeting he had earlier in the day with his supervisor aboard Geneva. That *could* have gotten ugly, but hadn't due in part to his respect for the man, and in equal measure the respect that the Engineering Yard commander had for Butch. His report about the shoddy and inept repairs performed on the Dennison had not sat well with the powers that be. Undoubtedly, heads were going to be chopped and rolling down the corridors of Callisto station when the details reached a high enough level. Geneva's yard commander was not keen on ruining careers. ~Well... that's just Bull isn't it? Had they done thier jobs, none of this would be happening. I'm sorry for your careers going down in flames you idiots. I'd be sorrier if this was allowed to continue. Dennison avoided disaster by the Grace of God and the skill of her crew. I'm not taking a chance on the next ship being so lucky. So... there ain't gonna be a 'next' ship!~ The console beeped. [Transmission complete. Commlink open.] The very sleepy and unhappy face of Butch's old friend Larry Bock appeared on the monitor in the nearly deserted engineering deck. He started to smile, then saw the look on Freeman's face and stopped cold. "Butch, do you have any idea --" Freeman's face was a mask of stone, his eyes intense and not a flicker of emotion on his face. "Yes. I know what time it is Larry. You may consider this a courtesy call." Bock laughed mirthlessly. "Some 'courtesy'. Some people in this fleet actually sleep, unlike you Butch." A trace of a frown crossed his face, then dissappeared again. "Larry... I'll give this to you straight. I just sent my report up the ladder regarding the Dennison's repairs." "And?" "And you know da*ned well what is in that report. Your boys really screwed up." Bock's face looked shocked and pale. "Butch... you can't send that report! I SIGNED OFF ON THOSE REPAIRS!!!" The last was nearly a desperation filled shout. Freeman swallowed hard then answered. "Larry, the *only* reason you are getting this call is because we've known each other so long. Otherwise... well, I don't know if you'll see your CO or security first. I guess that depends on how fast this information goes up the chain." Bock continued, his tone measured and eerily quiet. "Butch, I'm a short timer. They could prosecute for this, do you realize that? I'd be ruined. They'd strip my pension... I could wind up on a penal colony somewhere --" Freeman sighed inwardly as he felt thier friendship of nearly ten years dissolving like morning mists at sunrise. "I'm sorry Larry. Sorry that you decided to retire on duty. You know that this job is not like working in a retail store. Dam*itt man! Lives are at stake every second of every day. This is Starfleet! How could you forget your duty?" Not waiting for a reply, he pressed on. "Larry, I'm sorry, but you gave me no choice. Just be happy that no one was injured or died because of what you did... what you *allowed* to be done. Good luck Larry... I hope you can live with that thought. Goodbye." Whether Bock had any further comment or not, Freeman would never know. He closed the channel as soon as he was finished. Running the final set of diagnostics, he fed the data into a PADD. It was neatly compiled, concise... very much what you would expect in an engineer's report. Now the second and last duty. Let the Dennison's skipper know his proud ship was ready. He tapped his commbadge as he silently wondered what Captain Stakes was like. He had of course *heard* many things about him... most of which would be wildly exaggerated or simply untrue. He *knew* one thing. Somehow, Stakes had managed to get his last ship, the Boudicca, through the fires of hell at the MDP. Any man who could pull that off was worthy of a second look. "Captain Stakes, this is Master Chief Freeman from the Geneva repair detail. Apologies for the lateness of the hour, but I have standing orders to update you immediately on the Dennison's repair status. Sir, are you available now?" =^=Yes, Mister Freeman, I am available now to go through the repair update with you.Can you meet me here on the bridge?=^= Butch's response was instant. "Affirmative Captain. I will meet you there in two minutes." ~All business. Not afraid to work late. I could learn to like this guy. Maybe there are a few Captains left in the fleet after all?~ Butch smiled to himself as he grabbed the PADD with the status reports, along with another containing his report to yard command and sprinted for the turbolift. (USS Dennison - Bridge - MCPO Freeman - 2244) As good as his word, Freeman exited the turbolift at just shy of the two minute mark. He stepped briskly toward the center chair, and drew himself to perfect attention. "Sir. Master Chief Freeman reporting." He offered the PADD to the Captain and waited at attention. (Posted by Russ) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Ready Room – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 2309) "Sir, I will get right to the point." Trevan said, "With regards to my position with Starfleet Intelligence, there are a few things you and Eric need to know." Archibald sat himself down as he directed the others to sit down as well. As Eric took a seat at the Captains invitation he glanced at West with an openly curious expression. This was the first time that Trevan had offered any details on his other role on the Dennison. The more Eric listened the more concerned he became about the whole situation. His own experiences with SFI had been negative and had left him with little faith or trust in the organization. Now that he knew the extent of Trevan's own involvement with SFI Eric began to wonder whether the Commander would be able to keep his priorities straight. "Mister McDermott. I take this information is new to you?" At the Captain's question McDermott made eye contact with Stakes. While his expression was neutral the concern in his eyes was obvious. Nodding he said, "Yes sir. When I came aboard there was not enough time to go into Commander West's…conflicting roles and then we needed to get the Dennison ready for the battle at the MDP and then I was on the injured list for some time. There was just no opportunity before now." Archibald nodded. "Remind me, if you will, Mister West, but I can distinctly remember from your personnel file that you joined Star Fleet before SFI approached you. If my memory is indeed correct then I think it would be clear that Star Fleet holds the senior rights to your duty. Plus the fact, of course, that SFI is a side branch of Star Fleet and we are, if you pardon the expression, the main branch. And if memory serves me correctly, Star Fleet Main Branch funds the sub-divisions, including SFI. And the one who controls the money, controls everything." Archibald fell silent for a second but continued before anyone else could. McDermott listened as the Captain made his points and concerns clear and found that he was in agreement with all of them. He trusted West. The two of them had been through too much together for him not to. But…he didn't trust SFI and that was a problem…a big one. "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." McDermott was not sure what the Captain would eventually learn but he knew that if he were in Stakes position he would be prepared to pull pretty damn hard on the rope and loop it around someone's neck and throttle them if he had too. "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. McDermott rose and gave the Captain a friendly nod saying, "Good Evening sir." His expression was thoughtful and it was obvious that he had a lot on his mind. Turning he followed West out and onto the bridge. (Posted By: Ken Thacker) ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2408.01.09 Day: 184 ********************************************************* (USS Dennison - Shrekt's Quarters - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 0455) Shrekt's eyes flew open as her senses activated simultaneously. Within moments the computer was slowly bringing up the lights, as Shrekt swung her legs out of bed to begin her morning exercises. She stretched out and began to go through her routine. She had a meeting to attend to and she had spent her previous evening in a manner she had otherwise prepared for. But as it had been interrupted by her meeting with the Captain, Shrekt had decided to go over the senior crew's profiles and the ship's specifications one more time. She was certain now that the captain had arrived that work would begin in earnest. She would also have to meet her assistants, Sanok and Soma, following the meeting. The unusual tactical requirements of the Indefatigable class would require particularly close training. Shrekt looked forward to putting the department through its paces to see what kind of shape it was in. When she had finished exercising, she cleaned up. When the sonic shower shut off the computer activated the replicator producing a piece of fruit, some kind of grain dish, and a drink, all of which had been pre-programmed. It randomly cycled from dozens of choices that Shrekt had entered and ensured that she never quite started her day in the same way. While she ate, she reviewed her padd, taking in the details on the ship. When she had finished, she headed for the briefing room. === (Dennison, Briefing Room, ATac Ensign jg Sanok, 0558) Sanok entered the briefing room and quietly found a seat. He had not expected to be included in a senior staff briefing, as such things were usually restricted to the senior staff. However, since he had been summoned, he made sure to attend, and to be on time. Looking at the others present, without making it look like he was, Sanok saw numerous new faces. It hadn't taken long for things to change, and change is certainly what had happened on the Dennison. Since his return from Vulcan, Sanok had continued in his meditations more seriously than he ever thought he would. It was good for him to be back on duty, and the strict captain would help with his self-discipline. However, he did regret losing Captain Davis. No matter. Things were what they were. He was in a new phase in his life. He would deal with whatever came next, as a Vulcan. (Posted by Robert Brown) === (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 0559) Shrekt saw the captain enter the briefing room followed by a yeoman. ~Just in time.~ thought Shrekt, as she entered moments afterwards. She surveyed the room taking note of the faces present matching them to the records she had reviewed. She took a seat that was open and waited for the briefing to begin. ~This should be interesting.~ thought Shrekt, as she reviewed a padd that was provided to her. (posted by Kaweo Kanoho) === (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 06:00) At precisely oh six hundred, Archibald stepped into the meeting room, the hurried clack clack of her daughter's footsteps behind him as she struggled to keep up with the long strides that her father made. "Gentlemen," Archibald said with a nod in several directions as he made his was to the central seat, scanning the room for any absent faces. "My yeoman," he introduced Esme with a wave of his hand as he sat himself down. She assumed the position to the right of him behind his chair, a PADD ready to make notes when required. "Thank you for attending so promptly." Archibald continued after another scan of the room. "Commander West has requested the meeting as he has certain information to share with us all. As this is the first meeting chaired by me I guess it is appropriate to note that whatever is said in this room, stays in this room. I will not look kindly on those that pass on information to anyone outside of this room unless the information has been sanctioned first. Having said that, Commander West?" Archibald leant back in his chair, then sat up straight, his hands loosely clasped together on the table showing a relaxed and attentive mood. (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - Ops Officer - Ensign Cattia Spero - 06:01) Kit had made sure to be early for this, her first meeting aboard the Dennison. She knew that Captain Stakes would not appreciate tardiness, and had slipped quietly into the briefing room whilst there were still only a few people there. She had sat quietly down in a position where she could observe the room as a whole, and everyone in it. As she did so, she had sensed a slight air of tension, and couldn't at first place it. Eventually she had narrowed it down to the two commanders, who she guessed would be McDermott and West, the FO and the XO/spook who had requested the meeting. Mentally she shrugged; it was none of her business and in any case she had no idea what had caused it. It could be, she considered, that they were understandably nervous about their first briefing with the new CO. Overhearing a fragment of conversation between one of the commanders and a female lieutenant in teal she worked out that he must be West, and the lieutenant (Kit discovered moments later when the lieutenant introduced herself to another ensign) was Dale Bracken, the CSO and acting 2O. Sitting quietly and as far as she knew unobserved, Kit had watched and listened as the others arrived. At precisely 0600 Captain Stakes had stepped into the room, hastily followed by a tall girl in red, probably his yeoman and with enough of a likeness to both Captain and Admiral Stakes for Kit to recognise as their daughter. She had seen her once or twice on the Star too, which aided the identification. The Captain sent a penetrating glance around the room, presumably checking who, if anyone, was missing, and then began the meeting. Kit sat back as he handed over to West, for the spook to give his briefing. She prepared to listen attentively to what was said. (Posted by Liz) === ( USS Dennison- Briefing Room- ATac Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 0602) Ben took a sip of his coffe and looked around the table at those present. Captain Stakes had just introduced himself and his yeoman, who sat behind Captain Stakes with a PADD. Ben figured the yeoman would be taking notes as to who was present/missing and the important parts of the briefing for later review by the captain. Captain Stakes had just handed the floor over to Commander West, the intelligence officer and XO for the Dennison. Ben was intent on absorbing what ever information as he could. He had asked Commander West about the nature of the briefing and had received a breif synopsis. This misterious race could pose a threat so Ben understood his being included in the briefing, as a security officer on board the Dennison it would be his duty to safe guard the lives of everyone aboard aswell as protect the ship from hostile actions. Ben sat back in his seat and waited for the briefing to begin. (posted by Milo Young) === (USS Dennison, Briefing Room, Commander Trevan West and CSO/a2O Bracken, 0602.5) Now that everyone was there it was time to start the briefing. Trevan grabbed his PADD and holo emitter and made his way to the front of the room near the small view screen on the wall. Clearing his throat he began, "Good morning. My apologies for the early hour of this briefing, but this could not wait. As this is a briefing, it will be technical so I have placed a PADD in front of all of you to explain some of the finer points of what we are going to be talking about." Then gesturing towards Lieutenant Bracken, "Lieutenant Bracken will assist with the science aspects of this briefing. Now" he said turning on the viewer, "as you can see there are several blank spots and encrypted words. Apologies, as this data is not complete. Updated information will be coming," The display showed a map of the Maltorian home world as it existed 150 years ago. Two large continents dominated the picture, with a few small islands near the south pole. "As you can see here, this world is similar to Earth, although it only has two major landmasses. Now this," he said as he switched the image, "is what the planet looks like today." The image was striking, although now similar to the earlier view, this planet now had a large line across it at the equator. " That people is a large link to the other side of their planet. While they have transporter technology, they use this as their main transport to the other side of the planet. The engineering that needed to be done to design, construct and manage a structure is amazing. These people are far more advanced than we are in every area of science and technology." "162 years ago, they were a new race to the Federation. First contact was made, but after several meetings, the Maltorians decided to cut off plans to join us. 150 years ago, they disappeared." he stated. "While several searches to find out what had happened were made, no evidence was presented to account for the total disappearance of an entire planet. No detectable cloaking field, no debris, not even any gravity to suggest a nearby planet was found." Looking at the table he could see that he still had their attention, "That is until Starfleet Science received a message so powerful that it only took five seconds to send over one hundred years of information with no data loss." Trevan began to move around the table, "My sources at Intelligence have indicated to me that in addition to the Dennison's mission to seek out the Maltorian's, they also want their hands on any technology that can be scanned or taken." Thumbing the PADD he moved to the next page of information on the political status of the Maltorians, "As you can see, this planet has run under a type of dictatorship for almost three hundred years and has worked well for them. Unfortunately, there seems to be a small cell of people that don't recognize the legitimate government. Poverty, hunger, and racism, things that don't exist in the Federation, are still prevalent in this society. For more, I will hand this over to Lieutenant Bracken," Dale took a step forward, and began to address the room. “Thank you sir. Biologically, the Maltorians seem a fairly typical humanoid based race. The males have a green tint, and the females blue. Besides that the major observable difference is the ears join each other over the tops of the head. Other than that, they do display a major difference.” She tapped a button that would change the display. “A third sex, normally having a teal coloured skin tint. We have no idea at all how this impacts on their procreation, we have several theories, but that is all we do have. We’ve called this race the primaries, as although they seem to have developed as a genetic offshoot, they seem to hold most of the key positions in society. Those that the primaries don’t hold, the rest are held ruthlessly by the males. Females, I’m afraid to say seem to be oppressed in most walks of life.” She hit the button again, once more displaying the slide showing two major land masses. “It’s thought, from the newly decoded data from Fleet Science and Intel, that although the government is generally what we would term ‘totalitarian’ politically there has been a history that the two landmasses have shown a different ideology, with one showing a much more liberal attitude. Seemingly though, unlike in Earth’s history it was this that was the target of everyone’s hatred rather than the totalitarianism. The penal system is something else again, once more, our information is incomplete, but it seems that the penalties for even the smallest of crimes are harsher than you can imagine. The death penalty is still prevalent, criminals are also sent to the deep mines, where the conditions are...somewhat less than comfortable. How this will impact on the basis of our mission, remains to be seen. Scientifically this is an opportunity that we haven’t seen for how long. Caution though, must be displayed like at no other time. Our initial orders are to proceed to sector 4502, where hopefully, we will be able to pick up the trail once more.” Once more she hit the button to advance a slide. “This is a highly detailed subspace map of 4502, it displays gravitational wells the like of which we haven’t encountered before, and they will play merry hell with our maneuverability, all of us will have to be ultra familiar with every atom in this sector. So there we are, Racism Sexism, Religious Intolerance, Political Intolerance, In short they are experiencing the very worst and more, that was prevalent in 20th century Earth. As Commander West has already mentioned, this information is not to leave this room, everything that you have heard is highly classified very highly by fleet Intel. The penalties for breaking such secrecy, we are all aware of. Any questions? Trevan stepped in before someone could answer, "Sorry, just to add one more thing." he said activating the holo-emitter. A small tear shaped object appeared from the emitter, "This is one of their ships, according to the data thus far they only have six of these. They are small, about the size of a type nine shuttle but much faster. It can easily outrun the fastest starship." Then Trevan explained to the room that their level of weapons technology is still unknown but projected to be much more superior to Starfleet's. "They had achieved anti-matter weapons back during first contact, we assume that with their level of technology, anything they throw at us would destroy us in a shot or two. These people are isolationists, on the brink of being xenophobic. This was one of the reasons they broke off from talking with us. They also have their own version of a Prime Directive, however, unlike ours, they won't deal with any culture that is not as mentally evolved as themselves. So the reasons they are breaking this rule now, are confusing to say the least. One thing we are sure of, is that despite the looks, these people are very peaceful." he stated, "This Maltorian male, shown here on the emitter, is the current leader." Now thumbing to another page on the PADD Trevan began to explain how the political process works, "They have what we would call a senate, however the actual word can't be translated. The senate consists of forty-seven members, each representing a major city on the planet. These members then elect the leader or president of the planet. The leader can only be a male, and can only come from the largest city on the planet. They don't need to have political experience to be elected, or so we gather from their entertainment broadcasts and news outlets," he said then taking a swig of coffee, "The standard term for the senate is ten years, and president is for thirty. Although from our information, the average seems to be about six. The current president has held the position for twenty years. No new elections have been called in that time. "Now, any questions?" he asked the room. (posted by Kerry Fletcher, Mark Howard) === (USS Dennison - Briefing Room - TAC/SC Lt (sg) Joan Shrekt - 0623) Shrekt's brow furrowed as she followed along with the presentation that was being given. Now she understood some of the things in Commander West's file or things that weren't there. He was with SFI. And this mission was from them. Doenitz was with SFI, at least that was what she had heard. And now after the war just months behind them, they were taking a mission from SFI. That did not sit well with her. When the floor was opened, Shrekt decided to begin the questions, "Commander, given the advanced nature of their technology, what precautions are we taking to increase the ship's defenses against possible anti-matter weaponry?" (Reply West) "So what is our mission exactly, sir? Are we re-establishing contact with them? To establish a technology exchange? Or are we just going to steal whatever we can from them and running?" asked Shrekt, a single eye brow raised. (Reply West) (posted by Kaweo Kanoho) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 0803) "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" Archibald regarded the upstart for a second. At least he wasn't afraid to speak his mind or stand his ground. That showed strength of character. "As your commanding officer, Doctor, I can do both, Mister Nymes, without it being regarded as sleight on a character. But I take your point." Archibald looked at his screen then flipped it shut. "You are considered to be a good medical officer, Doctor. And even after I have made a lot of enemies in the battle for Earth, I am considered to be a good commanding officer. So we have something in common. Perhaps we should take that as a starting point. I'll respect you for being a good medical officer and you will respect me for being a good commanding officer and we undertake that we will make life for one another as easy as possible?" Archibald regarded the CMO for a second. "I noticed you have been awarded two medals. I got one as well. But I understood it is harder for a medical officer to get one. So how did you get yours, Doctor?" (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CMO -Dr Nymes - 0804) "I noticed you have been awarded two medals. I got one as well. But I understood it is harder for a medical officer to get one. So how did you get yours, Doctor?" Nymes pondered his answer before giving it, the truth be told that he didn't know why the captain had given him a commendation before taking away his rank. "For services during the final battles, sir, like you. And for services to the ship and crew, saving the lives of the command staff during the holodeck fiasco. As for the reasons, I am in the dark surrounding the exact circumstances, sir." (posted by GC) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 0933) 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 might 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," McDermott shrugged. Now that the confrontation was over he seemed deflated and tired. "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. McDermott snorted and said, "Here is fine, it won't matter for long what others think about how you and I interact." Eric sighed and said, "I apologize for not letting you know what's been going on with me but I figured you had enough things to be dealing with as it is. This…injury I suffered has not healed up as well as I hoped it might and frankly the pain is considerable and it's not likely to go away anytime soon." McDermott stood up and went to the window that showed a spectacular view of space and after a moment he went on softly. "I've had a number of episodes like the one you witnessed during the meeting today and it has forced me to face the fact that…I am no longer…fit for duty. As such I will be applying for a transfer off the Dennison as soon as it is feasible to allow someone who is more fit for the post to take over." Turning to West he took in the other man's surprised expression and said, "I've already contacted Star Fleet Medical to see about the possibility of seeking further treatment there but it may be possible that I will have to accept an early retirement due to medical disability. It's too soon to say at this point but it is a distinct possibility." Shrugging Eric said, "I regret it but unfortunately I may have no choice." (Posted By: Ken Thacker) === (USS Dennison - Ten Forward - Ensign Miandra Simmons & Commander Trevan West - 20:30) Mia wandered into Ten Forward happy to see the lounge open, even if it was still obviously under construction. She spotted a fellow red uniform at the bar and wandered over. ~They certainly do grow them big where he's from.~ Mia thought with no little admiration. A glance at his collar said 'Commander' even if it didn't indentify department. ~Probably command at that rank.~ she couldn't say she'd met many pilots over the rank of senior lieutenant. "Good Evening, Sir." she said with a friendly smile as she sat on a stool one over and picked up the menu that listed what the replicators were capable of and what was on as fresh. Trevan was sitting at the end of the bar seeing this new face. ~Plenty of new faces around here~ he thought to himself as she spoke to him, "Evening Ensign," he replied. Seeing her grab the replicator menu he just had to comment, "I'd stay away from the tomato and eggplant pasta. They still don't know how to replicate good tomato's" he chuckled. Mia smiled, "I'm not sure I've ever had a tomato to know a good one from a bad one," she replied. "Trevan West, Executive Officer," he said extending his hand and flashing his smile. ~Hope she doesn't think I am trying to make a pass at her~ Grabbing another seat closer to her, he made sure to leave one between them as they spoke. ~God, she's tall~ was all he could think as he just stared at her. Realizing he was probably staring a little too long at her he looked over the bar to get another drink, "I'll take a glass of Andorian Tonic Water please," he stated and then looked over at her, "and for you?" asked West. Mia shook his hand back, being careful that her sensitive finger webs didn't get smunched. "Mia Simmons, your newest pilot." She replied back. "Glass of H20 for me please." she ordered and glanced over the menu and decided nothing fresh leapt out of her. "I'll take the kelp salad with raw shrimp please." She suddenly looked back at Trevan, "Er, if you don't mind watching a barbarian eat, that is?" Trevan shook his head, "No, not at all. Shrimp and for that matter all seafood...." he drifted off realizing he may offend her, "what I mean is that I don....never mind." He was totally flustered, and this was something that almost never happened to him. Getting up he adjusted his uniform, "Sorry," he said and moved to the very end of the bar and stared into his glass wondering when the court-martial was going to happen for being a total jerk. Mia blinked, completely mystified. She studied the bar in front of her as she tried to figure out what had just happened and coming up with nothing decided she may as well put her foot in it. She turned to the executive officer, probably looking as confused as she felt. "Uhm, sorry for what Sir? I think my social skills just flopped." Trevan was totally taken aback that she came back to talk, "No, forgive me. I think it was my social skill that flopped there. I just didn't want to offend you." he said trying to see what her reply would be. "I know you probably get that a lot, and I apologize." he added quickly. Mia didn't think that cleared anything up. Whatever he was in command of, it certainly wasn't communications! "People going out of their way not to offend? Actually, it's a refreshing change." She teased. Well, it rather was after being called "fish girl" and "mermaid baby" for several months on Valhalla. Again, he was totally struck by the way she handled herself in this type of situation. He had known a few Captains that would be running for the nearest shuttle to the Gamma Quadrant in this type of ordeal. "Let me start again. Trevan West, ships' Executive Officer." This time he did not extend a hand for her to shake, "A pleasure to meet you Mia Simmons, and I for one am sure I will never forget this meeting for as long as I live." Grabbing what was left of his drink, he gestured towards a more comfortable spot away from the bar and construction equipment in the far end of the room. Before he sat down, he pulled out her chair, something he was always taught to do. "So, tell me about yourself, I don't have a..." and he realized he was about to let her know that he probably had a file on her somewhere in the mess that was his office, "any idea who you are" he finished hoping his recovery was not caught, but suspected it was. He was never a very good liar. "I'm a great listener," he smiled. Mia was more amused by the moment by this clumsy grouper of a commander. You'd think the man had never met a female before! That gave her pause for thought. Of course, the man had never met an *Aquadrian* female before, so maybe he felt like he was in a tide pool and didn't know which way was up. It was kind of cute, really. If you were supposed to think your vastly superior officers were cute. She took the gallantry as offered and the seat. A glass of water was delivered by a harried looking person who was probably juggling demanding crew, irritated construction workers and trying to get Ten Forward up and running before launch. "Oh, I'm just Mia." She replied with a smile, "First Aquadiran in Starfleet in 283 years and constantly being asked all sorts of questions." Her eyes danced, "Let me see if I can cover the basics," She put on a mock thinking cap, a gesture picked up from a human she'd roomed with in the Academy. "Yes, I lived in water. Yes, I can breath both air and water. I can hold my breath for seven minutes. Yes, I eat my food raw as its a bit hard to cook food underwater. No, I don't have scales. Yes, I have to take a batch of medications to serve in Star Fleet. No, I don't know the physiological make-up of my body, the genetic mutations done hundreds of years ago or how anything works beyond it does." She then grinned the final grin, "And yes, Aquadrians do copulate in water." She winked, "Though, I normally phrase that last one as 'Why? How long can you hold your breath?" Trevan laughed so hard at that comment that his tonic water came out his nose and all over the floor near his feet, "That is way too funny Mia Simmons," he said, "I have never met anyone quite like you before. You are certainly one of a kind that is for sure," "I do try, Commander." She said with a theatrical half-bow. About a million questions came to his head, "What made you join Starfleet?" he asked her, "and I have to admit, the Aquadrian thing kinda made me nervous on what to say. But now, it doesn't." he said honestly and this time staring right at her as opposed to his drink which was now empty. "I want to explore, travel, see new places, meet new people, learn all I can about the mysteries of the universe. A standard whale tale, I'm sure, but true." Waving over the waiter he ordered another one, and then looked back at Mia. "I don't drink." he stated bluntly. Crossing his legs, it made him instantly more comfortable, although the bottom half of his uniform was damp. Thankfully black pants hide stains well. There was this strange feeling coming up inside of him, something that he had not felt for a very long time. He couldn't place his finger on why, all he knew was that it was there and wasn't going away soon. "Mia," he asked softly, "do you mind if we go somewhere a little more quiet?" "Why Commander," she mock fluttered her eyelashes, "How long CAN you hold your breath?" "It's just that I would like to change, and then go somewhere nicer. Again, I don't want to hit on you. I just want to be dry!" he explained, "It would only take a second and then perhaps the holodeck? I know a great program you would like." Mia laughed standing and offered her hand, "First star on the right and on till morning!" (Posted by Kerry & Lorna) ******************************************************************** Th.th.th.th.th.th.th.th.that's all, Folks!