USS Paladin - October 2007 Compiled by Jason French ======================================================================================================================== Mission: Mjolnir's Fury Day: 0 Stardate: 2407.06.22 ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 13.53) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 13.53) Remae was sitting at his desk, feet up enjoying a coffee and resting from what the past several weeks had thrown at him. The refit of the Paladin was a major drain on him and the crew, they had achieved everything they had wanted but they had to work around the clock to do it. The teams from Stardock Phoenix and Geneva had been working on the Paladin ever since she had been moved to one of the docking bays, one that had to especially enlarged in order to fit the Paladin in place. "Computer, begin FO's log, stardate 2407.06.22, code for public access and allow anyone to read it: To say that the past month and a half has been busy is a major understatement, the ship has been refit as to the specifications but it was hard and a lot of the crew had to pull double shifts along with the teams from Geneva and Phoenix... it was worth it however.", he said to the computer... he began to list the changes and upgrades made. "... decks 14 and 15 now contain the upper and lower extendable docking ports. These will allow the Paladin to dock with several starships or a starbase, this will also allow us to transfer large amounts of personnel quickly in our new 'station mode'. They are located in the middle of the new civilian centre, we're now capable of carrying 140,000 people on top of a normal complement of 8,600. This could come in quite useful in moving colony sites for instance. In order to cope, we've now increased our support ships to 6 runabouts, 45 shuttles, several marine ships and a massive number of escape pods.", he said pausing for a moment to review his PADD. "The all new Tactical Interactive Holographic System is installed and working but I've no idea how it works really; apparently weapons are controlled by the fingers, and targeted/fired by 'touching' the matrix. It sounds all very fancy to me, I hope to get to the holodecks to try it once we are underway.", he took a sip of coffee and continued, "The new civilian centre was a massive undertaking, there is a community down there, complete with shops, restaurants and a promenade, this is on deck 19, but the civilian decks range from 15-20.", he paused again as he changed the page on his PADD. "We've increased holographic coverage to all decks, workstations are now equipped with holographic emitters, making them more efficient...", he continued on for a few more minutes, commenting on more enhancements to the warp drive, the tractor beam and the warp field. "Computer end log.", he said leaning back in his chair... before spinning it around and sitting on the old couch in his office, some fluff spewed out as he did so. (Reply from NONE) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== ************************************************************************************************************************ ======================================================================================================================== Mission: Mjolnir's Fury Day: 1 Stardate: 2407.06.23 ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - Commander Jennifer Rulestaad - 10.20) (USS Paladin, Bridge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 10.25) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 10.32) (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 10:35) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 10.55) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1056) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lieutenant Menelian - 1056) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CEO, Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 10.57) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Joran Matthew Brownlee - 1058) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 10.58) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 1058) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Pilot Officer Smith, 1059) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 10.59) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FSCO 1st Lieutenant Stephiea Rath, 10.59) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1100) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1110) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 11.11) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Pilot Officer Smith, 1115) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1116) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 11.18) (USS Paladin FO Remae's Office - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 11.31) (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FSCO, 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath, 11.56) (USS Paladin, FO's Office, Pilot Officer Smith, 11.57) (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 12.15) (USS Paladin, FO's Office, Pilot Officer Smith- 12.20) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 3 - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 13.00) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1315) (USS Paladin - Deck 4, General Conference Room - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1330) (USS Paladin - Main Engineering-Command Sky bridge - Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 1435) (USS Paladin, Pilot briefing room, Pilot Officer Smith– 15.00) (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.01) (USS Paladin - Main Engineering-Command Sky bridge - Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 1501) (USS Paladin - Security - Ensign JG Niles George - 15.02) (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.03) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1516) (USS Paladin - Deck 16 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1517) (Orbit of the Paladin, Pilot Officer Smith- 15.18) (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.18) (USS Paladin - Deck 15 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1523) (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.24) (USS Paladin - Deck 15 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1525) (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.26) (USS Paladin - Deck 15 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1527) (Space – Gueken fighter – Pilot Officer Smith -1533) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1900) (USS Paladin, Bridge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 19.05) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1910) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 19.16) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1930) (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1931) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - Commander Jennifer Rulestaad - 10.20) "Commander Rulestaad, the latest fleet report." Jenna's Vulcanoid ears twitched slightly as the footsteps behind her came to a halt, and she turned around immediately with her hand out, not even bringing her eyes up from the PADD she was reading. A second later, the padd was slipped into her grasp. "Very well Lieutenant," she said, turning back to her desk. She didn't have to look at the man to know who he was; she could recognize the footsteps of anyone who belonged in the sealed command-room of Strategic Operations. The first time she heard footsteps she didn't recognize, she'd be ordering a Security team in. She looked up from the PADD after a minute longer and looked out over her domain. From the sealed control room, sitting on top and in the middle of a football sized area, she could see every man and woman who were plotting courses, relaying information to various ships in the Battle-group and fleet, or liaising with their Klingon partners. Strategic Operations really was the last true Kingdom in Starfleet, and she was the Queen. And woe be to he who screwed up under her rule. She could wield her iron rod in such a way that no marks were ever seen, but felt for a lifetime. She looked back down at the second PADD she had been handed and quickly scrolled through it. She had no less then two of these a day, she kept constant tabs on the Battle-group she had been set to coordinate. Reports appealed to her Vulcan nature, so she kept lots of them. Her human nature, her emotional panorama, wouldn't come into play unless adrenaline was pumping- either in the middle of combat or when somebody irritated her. Her officers had long ago learned not to irritate her. Jenna put the PADD down on her pile once she was done scrolling and turned in her chair, "Communications, henceforth I want hourly status reports from the Pegasus. Those phaser-belt repairs are taking far too long. Also, make a note, if they're at it for more then five more hours I'll want a couple of the best engineers in the battle-group to beam over and take over... maybe the humiliation will induce the Pegasus crew to work faster next time." "Aye Commander," the Lt Commander at Communications said. The only other way you could tell he'd received her order was a small note he made on a PADD. Other then that, he didn't so much as twitch. Jenna stood up and crossed her arms behind her as she walked up to the holographic Starmap she had always running these days. It showed the disposition of every ship in the battlegroup, all other known assets, and known enemy positions. It was updated with every sensor sweep the Paladin (and every other ship in the battlegroup) made. It didn't take a genius to see they were being formed for something, but their ultimate goal still hadn't been revealed to her. All she'd been told, for now, was to keep the battle-group defensive in preparation for mission orders. And so she had done, all her ships were arranged in a pattern that would have made a 3-D Chess Grandmaster proud. And so she stood there, studying the map, until Commander Ktell commanded her to the Observation Lounge for a meeting in five minutes. She tapped her badge, "Acknowledged." She spun on her heel and said, "XO has the floor." NRPG: No message was sent, that I could see, so I'll just assume she gets one :-P (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Commander Jennifer Rulestaad - 10.30) Jenna stode into the Observation Lounge, only the Captain was there. "Captain." She said as the door closed behind her. (reply, as desired) She took a seat and pulled out a blank secureable PADD just as the door opened again. "Captain. Commander." Rulestaad turned her head and bowed it in acknowledgement. She knew who the new First Officer was, but she'd never seen him. She'd only caught a glimpse of him on Utopia Planitia as commander of the Firebrande, and that was assuming this was the same Ktell, there could be more since she was displaced in this universe. She turned her head back and waited for the Captain. (reply: any) (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 10.25) Remae had command of the Bridge; the Captain had been in her Ready Room quite a while, hours had gone by and the Bridge was silent. The Bajoran looked around at the crew on duty, each of them seemed to be waiting... he had an idea of what was going on in there but he concentrated on his duties. "CONN, new course: 354 Mark 56 ahead warp 7.", said the Captain, finally emerging and walking down. (Reply CONN) She then turned to face the First Officer, even as the ship jumped to warp. "... Until then, you have the Bridge. Maintain current course and speed.", she said apparently heading for the observation lounge. "Aye Captain", he said and began working on a ship wide communications channel. He had been ordered to get the senior crew together, it wasn't a problem but he had a few minutes before he was going to be joining his CO and the Strategic Operations Officer in the OL. "Senior Officers, this is the First Officer, report to the Observation Lounge at 10.55... attendance is mandatory.", he said carefully following his orders. Acknowledgements came from around the ship as Remae kept a close eye on the clock, when time was up, he handed over Bridge command to the next senior officer and headed for the OL. (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 10.31) "Captain.", he said walking into the OL, the Strategic Operations Officer was already there although he wasn't sure if he had met Commander Rulestaad before, he nodded in her direction, "Commander.", he said and he took a seat at the table and waited for the Captain to speak. NRPG: Room for a lot more here of course RPG: (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 10.57) Remae was listening to the departmental reports coming in, he sat, his customary right leg crossed over at the left knee and his seat back away from the table, giving his tall frame room to be comfortable. The battle simulation sounded interesting, the FO was trying to remember when he last had a phaser training session, he would have to speak to someone about that. He continued listening to everyone and then he added something to the reports, "We've installed the new Tactical Interactive Holographic System and we've received some training in its operation but I would like everyone here to be familiar with it, just in case. Does someone want to prepare a little training program for its use? I don't want to see us get into battle without know what this is capable of.", he said. (Reply from Anyone) "Captain, we tested the Extendable Docking Ports during our shakedown but there is an unknown regarding them, what would happen if the Paladin went to warp while they were extended... I would like Lt Matrix to conduct a few tests to see if it's possible to maintain a warp field while all are extended.", he said looking over at the CEO. (Reply from Matrix) Remae nodded and indicated he was finished as he waited for other reports to come and for finally, the Captain to speak. (Reply from Matrix, CONN, Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 10.32) Remae was waiting for the Captain to speak, whatever it was, it must have been very important... but while they waited the Bajoran turned to the STRATOPS. "Commander, I was wondering if you can do me a favour, can you locate a Federation ship for me? The USS Wraith... the last I heard, she was in the Beta Quadrant and I have a personal interest onboard.", he said carefully, not too loud as to disturb the CO but enough so that Rulestaad could hear. Whatever the reply, Remae simply nodded in appreciation and waited for the CO to speak. (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 11.15) He'd just heard the mission breakdown from his CO, he faded out to recall his last mission. As CO of the Spectre, he'd led an away mission to Betazed, only to step on a mine and have his legs blown off. If it wasn't for the quick thinking of Colonel Krige, one tough Marine, Remae would be quite dead instead of spending months learning to walk again on artificial legs. Remae was only out of it for a moment but he came back to life, remember what the Captain has said about battle drills and preparations for what was coming up. He turned to Lieutenant Menelian and said, "Lt, I will need to see you in the FO's Office at 12.00, please." After any questions were asked, they were dismissed and Remae had a lot of work to do. (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 11.30) ~ Battle Drills and all Preparations ~ He was looking over the specifications of his ship, the deck plans and he was making a list of ideas for drills... he would have to speak to several senior officers but the most important right now was Security. He continued to work as the time for his meeting with the Security Chief approached. (Reply from Menelian, Rulestaad, Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 10:35) Eva stepped out of her Ready Room and onto the Bridge a grim expression on her face. She had just spent the last three hours in her Ready Room going over the heavily encrypted message they had received early that morning. It had been marked 'Captain's Eyes Only' and it had taken the computer nearly an hour to decrypt such was the level of encryption on it. "CONN," She snapped as she stepped down to the command deck. "New course: 354 Mark 56 ahead warp 7. (Reply CONN) She then turned to Command Ktell. "Number One, assemble the Senior staff in the Observation Lounge in 20 minuets for a mission briefing, attendance is mandatory. I expect departmental status reports at that time. You and Command Rulestaad will join me in the Observation Lounge in 5 minuets. Until then, you have the Bridge. Maintain current course and speed," She said looking at her First Officer. (Reply Ktell) She looked around the Bridge one more time before moving toward the Observation Lounge. ~How many more good officers and crew will die on this next mission?~ She thought grimly as the walked through the door to the Lounge. (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1055) Eva had decided to keep their objective secret from the rest of the crew for now due to security concerns. She had given Commander Ktell and Commander Rulestaad a brief summery of their orders in the few minutes they had before the rest of the senior officers began to arrive. They would meet again later, just the three of them to go over things in more detail, but now she had to give her crew their marching orders. "We have received new orders from HQ," She said, bring the meeting to order. "Before I get to that, departmental status reports." She looked around to see who would go first. (Reply ALL) (Posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 10.55) Detron walked into the Observation Lounge and nodded at Captain Straton. He took a seat near the Captain and offered to give his report first. Straton waved him up to the front. Detron walked to the front and faced the room. "Security has been busy during the refit and the shakedown process. There are no injuries to report as operations were very careful and efficient. I set up a battle training program in Hollodeck 3 to prepare the crew for possible coming battle situations. I used the program along with half the crew. Their feedback confirm that I made the program well. I encourage everyone to use the program to practice for what is to come. We are ready to handle tactical matters regarding the Civil War as needed sir. Thank you." Detron waited for the applause to finish before he walked to his seat. He sat at the table and waited for the next report. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1056) Lieutenant Christopher Adams entered the Observation Lounge to find Captain Straton, Commander Ktell and Commander Rulestaad were already in there waiting for the rest of the bridge staff to arrive. He gave a nod of acknowledgement and took a seat at the table. The glow from the main deflector dish gave the room a blue hue. From the outer edges you could see the warp effect zipping off into the distance as the Paladin headed at maximum warp to somewhere only the senior officers knew. After a while the rest of the bridge crew arrived and Captain Straton started the meeting. "We have received new orders from HQ. Before I get to that, departmental status reports." Ensign Detron Trei stood up, walked to the front of the room and gave a report about the security training that had been taking place since the Paladin's refit was complete. After he was complete he stood there waiting for something, but only silence could be heard. Someone from around the room cleared their throat and Detron walked back to his seat and sat down. "Operations is fully operational," reported Adams. "We've just finished working out the kinks from the last shake down mission. There were internal sensor glitches, but we worked with the engineering staff to iron those out. We had a crash in the Bridge Module computer core, but I just got a report that it's back up and going. Besides those two things, everything else appears to have been worked out over the past couple of weeks and we are ready to go on full active duty." (reply ALL) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lieutenant Menelian - 1056) "Before I get to that, departmental status reports." Menelian was about ready to open his mouth when someone beat him to the punch. That didn't so much bother him, except that it was Ensign Trei who was speaking! "Security has been busy during the refit and the shakedown process." Menelian had turned his head and was giving the officer a full-blown glare by this point, but Trei wasn't looking at him. He continued on, even patting himself on the back about a program he'd designed. Once he was done, he stood there and didn't even try to sit down until someone else began their report... it was like the man was waiting for praise for doing his duty! Menelian's gaze never left his subordinate, but he was busy making mental notes to have a quaint little... chat... with the man later. Once the rest of the departments had given their reports, Menelian turned his head and said, "I recommend tightening security on sensitive areas, duel Marine and Security patrols. The closer we get to your respective homes, the more likely we'll have to deal with sabotage from those whose consciences are bothering them." ~And that, young pup, is why you keep your mouth shut until you are spoken too.~ he thought, his jaw tight, as he awaited the Captain. (reply: any) (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CEO, Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 10.57) Matrix sat motionless while the discussions crossed the room. He listened intently. "Captain, we tested the Extendable Docking Ports during our shakedown but there is an unknown regarding them, what would happen if the Paladin went to warp while they were extended... I would like Lt Matrix to conduct a few tests to see if it's possible to maintain a warp field while all are extended.", he said looking over at the CEO. Matrix sat up, "Captain. Preliminary testing shows the docking port unable to withstand more than half impulse. Since there is a significant shockwave associated with hull stress its likely that the docking ports would tear apart near half impulse speed. The connection linkages on the hull are my concern. If those fail we could have significant damage to the ship in those areas. We're bound by the laws of physics in this case. Matrix sat back down at the table. (Reply Straton, any, none) (Posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Joran Matthew Brownlee - 1058) Joran walked into the observation lounge with a mug of his usual Vulcan mocha in his hand. He took his usual seat, and laid the PADDs he had in his other hand down on the table in front of him. After a while the rest of the bridge crew arrived and Captain Straton started the meeting. "We have received new orders from HQ. Before I get to that, departmental status reports." Ensign Detron Trei stood up, walked to the front of the room and gave a report about the security training that had been taking place since the Paladin's refit was complete. After he was complete he stood there waiting for something, but only silence could be heard. Someone from around the room cleared their throat and Detron walked back to his seat and sat down. "Operations will be fully operational within the next few hours," reported Adams. "Internal sensors are having glitches that we are working with the engineering staff to iron out. We are still unpacking the new software upgrades to the new computer cores. The base software that came with the units and runs most of our systems has been up and going for a while now, but we had to put off the software upgrades until the very end. There could still be issues here and there. We really need a shake down to make sure all the bugs are worked out of the systems. A lot of changes took place over the next six weeks. Maybe a set of battle drills are in order." After Adams finished, Joran stood up to address the assembled crew. He punched a few buttons on the newly-installed panels on the conference table, and a hologram of the new science systems was projected into the air above the table. "The new science systems are up and running, and the last glitches have been worked out. Please note, as Matrix will probably go into detail more during his report, there are now holographic projectors installed in most workstations." (reply ALL) (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 10.58) Detron sat at the table listening to Joran Brownlee and SO Adams give their report. He was irritated at the fact that no one took his training program seriously. He did however show the proper respect to Adams and Brownlee by clapping for a report well done. ~So that is how its going to be. No respect for me GRRRR~ (Reply All) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 1058) Matrix sat silently tapping his PADD as the department head spoke. He took notes and added tasks to his engineering staff through the PADD as situations were reported. "Operations will be fully operational within the next few hours," reported Adams. "Internal sensors are having glitches that we are working with the engineering staff to iron out. We are still unpacking the new software upgrades to the new computer cores. The base software that came with the units and runs most of our systems has been up and going for a while now, but we had to put off the software upgrades until the very end. There could still be issues here and there. We really need a shake down to make sure all the bugs are worked out of the systems. A lot of changes took place over the next six weeks. Maybe a set of battle drills are in order." After Adams finished, Joran stood up to address the assembled crew. He punched a few buttons on the newly-installed panels on the conference table, and a hologram of the new science systems was projected into the air above the table. "The new science systems are up and running, and the last glitches have been worked out. Please note, as Matrix will probably go into detail more during his report, there are now holographic projectors installed in most workstations." Matrix adjusted his uniform and spoke, "We're nearly finished with all of the requested upgrades. As Mr. Adams stated the new stations are just about finished. Mr. Cohen is completing the programming work as we speak and my engineering staff should complete the replication details within an hour or so. We're having some energy distribution issues with the new systems, but I'm confident we can get those worked out in a few more hours. The new additions are obviously adding to the energy consumption required and we need to accommodate the routing pathways to provide the additional power. Some of the Jefferies tubes will have more conduits in them so don't be surprised if see additions in those areas. We are running into a few software glitches and my staff is working on repairing those issues. Overall I think those issues can be resolved within a few hours. We may find other bugs in the systems as we get underway. Internal sensors are our priority and I have two staff members dedicated to those problems now. Weapons and propulsion are 100% percent." said Matrix. (Reply any, none) (Posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Pilot Officer Smith, 1059) "We have received new orders from HQ," Jennifer watched as the room fell silent and they all turned to look at the Captain. "Before I get to that, departmental status reports." Jennifer looked at Rath who was her department head. She had given her 'Shark baits' readiness report but Jennifer was ready in case there were any questions thrown her way. (reply any) (posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 10.59) After hearing what Mendalan had to say, Detron processed the report. Detron didn't need anything to stoke his hatred toward Mendalan, but Mendalan provided such fuel by disrespecting Detron's efforts. There will be a talk when the meeting was over. ~%*%&*&%$ Romulan. What would he rather have me be a good soldier and follow orders like a drone, or have the courage to take action. I will always choose to take action.~ (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FSCO 1st Lieutenant Stephiea Rath, 10.59) Steph waited till the other officers had given their reports before standing herself. She adjusted the PADD on the table before her and then looked up at everyone sitting around the table. "The refit has brought all fighter squadrons back to full strength and ready for combat," Steph said, "We continue daily training exercises to maintain top combat readiness. We are as ready as we will ever be for whatever is to come." With that Steph nodded indicating she was finished and sat back down. (Reply Any) (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1100) Lieutenant Christopher Adams listened on as flight squadron XO finished her report. It sounded like the refit had transformed an already formidable starship into a juggernaut. The waiting was getting the best of him. They were now on the edge of Federation space and the captain said they had new orders from HQ. What could they be? Finally, he gave in to his curiosity. "So…Captain…," Adams spoke up. "I believe that's the last of the status reports. How about giving us a hint at where HQ is sending us?" (reply Straton, any) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1110) When the last of the reports had been given, Eva stood up once more and looked around at her officers before speaking. "The Paladin, and her battle group, have been reassigned to the 21st Task Group. The Task Force is currently gathering and we should arrive at the rendezvous coordinates in two days. I will be assuming command of the Task Force upon our arrival by order of Admiral LoDona. The task force will consist of 200+ ship both Star Fleet and Klingon. The 52nd is launching a series of attacks to liberate the last of the core worlds of the Federation. Our target is one of the remaining core worlds still under Doenitz control; Betazed. Our attack will also serve a secondary purpose of forcing Doenitz to split his remaining forces while the bulk of the 52nd retakes the Terran system. We will be engaging his forces around Betezed and preventing them from flanking the bulk of the 52nd during their attack on Earth. This will undoubtedly be the largest battle that the Paladin has been involved in so far in this conflict. I want to make absolutely sure that this ship and her crew are ready for what is likely to be a very lengthy and bloody battle. We will be running combat drills for every department on every shift as well as putting extra security measures in place to prevent any threat of sabotage. I will be spending a great deal of my time in StratOps working with Commander Rulestaad on our strategy and tactics for the upcoming battle. Commander Ktell will be overseeing all ship wide preparations. You will all report directly to him and he will keep me appraised of the ships status. I will allow him to hand out any assignments as he see's fit. Are there any questions?" (Reply All) (Posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 11.11) After hearing the mission told by CO Straton, Detron became exited that it involved his home-world Betazed. He also felt a great sense of apprehension at what they would face in the coming battles. He would have much to offer concerning strategy on Betazed. Working with Remae will be interesting for what he has seen from him so far. He was ready to liberate his home world. ~Here we go. May the Lord guide me to save Betazed. Mother, I am coming home.~ (Reply Remae, Any) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Pilot Officer Smith, 1115) "... Commander Ktell will be overseeing all ship wide preparations. You will all report directly to him and he will keep me appraised of the ships status. I will allow him to hand out any assignments as he see's fit. Are there any questions?" Jennifer sta in silence as the enormaty of what had been siad sunk in. ~Ow my. Were finaly going for it~ Altho she knew that it was going to happen some time she had just not htought that it was going to happen now. ~I need to get my squadren up to speed. Looks like We'll be spending extra time in the holodecks~ (reply any) (posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Observation Lounge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1116) Goose bumps formed on Lieutenant Christopher Adams's arms when Captain Straton announced the up coming plans. Finally LoDona was taking action. A thrust into the heart of the Federation in order to break Doenitz's hold on the last worlds held by the "governors" he had put in place to control the governments of the Federation. How Adams wished he was a part of the ships heading towards Earth, but that wasn't to be. The plan was sound. Force Doenitz to wage a two front war. It sound easy, but there was always something up Doenitz's sleeve. How else could he have taken over dozens of worlds? The question was: would those worlds trust Earth and Starfleet again? Can the Federation recover from this and go back to the way it was? Probably not, but maybe a new Federation could rise from the ashes of this bloody civil war and the first steps on the long road home are about to begin. Adams looked back and forth between Captain Straton and Commander Remae. "I guess the only question I have is: When do we get started?" A smile of anticipation formed on his lips. (reply Straton or Remae, any) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 11.18) The orders were given, the meeting was over but one officer had one more final thing to say. "I guess the only question I have is: When do we get started?", said Lt Adams... Remae felt the same momentum, he simply said, "Immediately.", and the meeting was over. The First Officer had to work on several assignments and get everyone up to speed as soon as possible. (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 11.32) His door chimed and Remae was already on his couch, with a PADD in his hand working on assignments, he assumed the Security Chief had arrived however... "ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei here and reporting for assignment sir!", said the half Klingon, Half Bajoran standing to attention... Remae saw no need to change that and left the Ensign at attention. "Ensign? I am not quite sure what you are doing here, I didn't ask you to report for assignment. As the Assistant Security Officer on this ship, you'll get your assignments from your superior, in this case, Lieutenant Menelian.", Remae looked around for a moment before adding, "At ease, Ensign.", he said before looking down at his PADD. NRPG: I am leaving room for Menelian to appear for his scheduled meeting with the FO and I am going to assume there is fun and games to be had between him and his Security Officer. RPG: Remae welcomed the Security Chief to his room and spoke to the Romulan as directly as he could, "Lieutenant, I want this ship and crew ready for war... I want you and your teams to schedule holodeck weapon training scenarios on all decks, training on all forms of weapons for all the senior officers, myself included and finally, strategies on situations if the Paladin is boarded.", he said. "Perhaps your Ensign here could design a holodeck program for the senior officers to practise their aim?", said Remae, "Apart from that, I am going to leave combat readiness drills in your capable hands, I expect random drills between now and when we meet up with the fleet, you don't need to clear them with me.", he said. (Reply from Menelian and/or Trei) "If you have any specific recommendations, now is the time to tell me.", he said leaning back in his old couch, waiting for any feedback they had to offer. (Reply from Menelian and/or Trei) "Very well, carry on.", he said returning to his PADD and looking what little he had written down. "First Lieutenant Rath and Pilot Officer Smith, please report to the First Officer's Office.", he said to the computer and when he heard the reply, he typed in some more commands into his PADD. (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 11.55) Remae opened the door for the two pilots as they entered together and he asked the both to relax before he laid out his orders to them. "Thank you for coming; I have to admit, I am not using to having Pilots and their Fighters onboard ship so I am little behind on procedures but I am simply going to say what I would like to happen and I will ask you to guide me in your operations and procedure, feel free to correct me and to education me.", he said looking back down at his PADD. (Reply from Rath and/or Smith) "From now on, your standing orders are to launch the entire complement of fighters at anytime we go to Red Alert, regardless if we are at warp or not... is that feasible? Also, when we go to Yellow Alert, I want a force of fighters to be launched with a reserve kept in reserve. Basically, any situation we face, I want a fighter complement to be in space, comments?", he said sitting back in his couch again so he could listen. (Reply from Rath and/or Smith) "Thank you for your comments.", he said and with the orders given and any alterations made, he dismissed both pilots. Remae continued to see officers from the ship and to issue orders for battle readiness drills for a while, he already had one in mind and he sent a message to the Captain and to Commander Rulestaad. "Computer, secure message to Captain Straton and Commander Rulestaad: I've planned a battle drill for 15.00, Captain, Commander... if there is any real danger at that time, I will use the codeword 'Epsilon Gamma 9' in a vocal or written communication, otherwise, I am going to spring this surprise as it were real in every sense to the ship's company." He ended the communication and made sure it was sent with an important and urgent marker. (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO, Commander Remae Ktell - 15.00) The Bajoran was on the Bridge but he wasn't concentrating on the stars, he had something else in mind... he looked around a moment before saying, "Red Alert... all hands to battle stations!", and moments later, the klaxons blared, the lights dimmed and everyone exploded into action. Remae was counting to himself as he launched another order, "Ensign Brownlee, increase speed to maximum warp, Engineering, this is the Bridge, I want maximum warp for as long as we can hold it.", he said launching another order, "Mr Adams, I want to hear when every department is at Battle Stations readiness.", he said looking over at the Chief of Operations. ~ Now we'll see ~ (Reply from ALL) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin FO Remae's Office - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 11.31) Detron walked iinto FO Remae's office. Remae was sitting at his desk as Detron approached. "ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei here and reporting for assignment sir!" Detron stood at attention until told otherwise. (Reply Remae) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FSCO, 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath, 11.56) Steph walked into the FO's Office followed by 2nd Lt. Smith. Steph walked up to the FO's desk and snapped to attention. "1st Lt. Stephiea Rath reporting as ordered Sir," Steph said as Smith followed suit right beside her. The Commander told them to stand at ease before getting down to business. Steph moved from attention to parade rest and watched the FO waiting to see what he had summoned them for. "Thank you for coming; I have to admit, I am not using to having Pilots and their Fighters onboard ship so I am little behind on procedures but I am simply going to say what I would like to happen and I will ask you to guide me in your operations and procedure, feel free to correct me and to education me.", he said looking back down at his PADD. Steph simply nodded, fighters were not common on star ships they tended to be something reserved for star bases and only the largest of star ships. "From now on, your standing orders are to launch the entire complement of fighters at anytime we go to Red Alert, regardless if we are at warp or not... is that feasible? Also, when we go to Yellow Alert, I want a force of fighters to be launched with a reserve kept in reserve. Basically, any situation we face, I want a fighter complement to be in space, comments?", Ktell said sitting back on his couch. "Sir," Steph said, "Our current orders are that we have a half squadron in formation around the Paladin at all times with the other half squadron prepped and ready for launch at a moments notice, so the Paladin is *never* without a fighter escort. A second squadron is on standby at all times should they be needed, with the third squadron down for rest. This allows us to put a full squadron in space within seconds and two full squadrons in space within minutes. At present, when the Paladin goes to Red Alert we have been putting two full squadrons in space with the third held in reserve, unless otherwise ordered by the Captain. At Yellow Alert one full squadron is launched and the second squad is prepped and put on hot standby, while the third squad is called back on duty and suited up. If you wish to change this procedure, just let me know in what way and I will have the changes carried out today." (Reply Ktell, Smith, any) (Posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, FO's Office, Pilot Officer Smith, 11.57) "1st Lt. Stephiea Rath reporting as ordered Sir," "2nd Lt. Jennifer Smith rerporting as ordered Sir." Jennifer who was standing beside Rath moved from parade to rest and waited for the FO to start. "Thank you for coming; I have to admit, I am not using to having Pilots and their Fighters onboard ship so I am little behind on procedures but I am simply going to say what I would like to happen and I will ask you to guide me in your operations and procedure, feel free to correct me and to education me.", he said looking back down at his PADD. Jennifer nodded. "From now on, your standing orders are to launch the entire complement of fighters at anytime we go to Red Alert, regardless if we are at warp or not... is that feasible? Also, when we go to Yellow Alert, I want a force of fighters to be launched with a reserve kept in reserve. Basically, any situation we face, I want a fighter complement to be in space, comments?", Ktell said sitting back on his couch. "Sir," "Our current orders are that we have a half squadron in formation around the Paladin at all times with the other half squadron prepped and ready for launch at a moments notice, so the Paladin is *never* without a fighter escort. A second squadron is on standby at all times should they be needed, with the third squadron down for rest. This allows us to put a full squadron in space within seconds and two full squadrons in space within minutes. At present, when the Paladin goes to Red Alert we have been putting two full squadrons in space with the third held in reserve, unless otherwise ordered by the Captain. At Yellow Alert one full squadron is launched and the second squad is prepped and put on hot standby, while the third squad is called back on duty and suited up. If you wish to change this procedure, just let me know in what way and I will have the changes carried out today." ~It will be a challange to change what we have but not impossible~ Jennifer waited for Ktell to answer. (Reply Ktell, Rath, any) (Posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, FO's Office, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 12.15) "... while the third squad is called back on duty and suited up. If you wish to change this procedure, just let me know in what way and I will have the changes carried out today.", said the FSCO, squarely putting the FO in his place. Remae freely admitted he knew nothing about the Pilots and their fighters, now, he had proven it. He thought to himself for a moment before looking at First Lieutenant Rath. "Thank you the information, First Lieutenant, however I do need to change your current arrangements. This mission is going to require every resource in use if we're going to make it, I need the third squadron in space when we go to Red Alert but only for this mission only, the current Yellow Alert strategy and patrols are approved for continued use.", he said looking at the two pilots. (Reply from Rath) "My experience with the fighter group on the Paladin is limited, Pilot Officer Smith, if duties and the situation permit, I would like you to take me out in the one of the two seater trainers I've heard exist, I want to see what the Fighters are capable of.", said Remae looking at the Pilot Officer, "Maybe tomorrow at 0800?" (Reply from Smith) Thanking the officers for their time, Remae dismissed them both as he continued to plan for this afternoons exercise. (USS Paladin, Bridge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 15.15) The Paladin has been running at its maximum warp for a short while and Remae was ready to execute the next part of the training exercise. "Mr Adams, where are our fighters, are the able to keep up with us at this speed?", asked Remae unsure of the maximum speed of the fighters compared with the maximum speed of the Paladin. (Reply from Adams) "Very well, emergency deceleration -- take us to half impulse.", he said to the CONN and the order was executed, the Paladin's warp drive was thrown into reverse. Remae was seated again as he typed in a few commands into the computer as the ship came to a rapid stop. The computer has been programmed, there were 2 Federation ships on the viewscreen, their transponders indicating they were on the wrong side, Remae made their orders clear. "Simulated targets ahead. Standby.", he said and just on cue, the simulations began firing. The computer recorded the hits of the enemy weapons, "Fire at will.", he ordered just as the computer beeped at him, "Somehow, we've got boarding parties on decks 15 and 16... Security, intruder alert on Decks 15 and 16.", he said, holographic Federation soldiers would prove just as much as a challenge. Remae smiled to himself as the doors to the Bridge opened and two holographic Marines entered, he spun up and took his phaser and fired at one of them which the computer promptly deleted, the other one was about to fire... (Reply from All) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, FO's Office, Pilot Officer Smith- 12.20) “…Alert strategy and patrols are approved for continued use.", Jennifer listened to Rath’s reply. "My experience with the fighter group on the Paladin is limited, Pilot Officer Smith, if duties and the situation permit, I would like you to Take me out in the one of the two seater trainers I've heard exist, I want to see what the Fighters are capable of.", ~This should be fun~ "Maybe tomorrow at 0800?" “Yes Sir.” (reply any) (posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 3 - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 13.00) After getting some lunch in Ten Forward, Detron accessed his battle training program. "Computer. Create a new program with modified Battle Training Trei 1 data. Keep Battle Training Trei 1 running if anyone needs both combat and target training. Create program Battle Training Trei 2. Run simulations of enemy infiltration. Run quick read and recognition simulation. Mark right choices in green and wrong choices in red. Run separate department scenes activated by department name. Make program available for every department Construct program." After a few minutes, (program ready) Detron sent a message informing the ship of the program in Holodeck 3 and its availability in every department. Detron left the Holodeck. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1315) Small fires were burning from various stations around the bridge. Every few minutes or so another station would overload. The smoke was starting to get thick in the diminished lighting on the bridge. Commander Remae Ktell stood up from his chair. "Lieutenant Adams, report." Adams's fingers few over the operations panel, now getting reports from all over the ship. "The collision with the enemy starship has caused a cascading overload of all systems. Shields are down. Transporter signals are appearing all over the ship. I've lost contact with Engineering and the Auxiliary Bridge." "Understood," responded Remae. "Security alert level 3. Dispatch security to all…" The commander's order was cut short when the sound of a phaser cut through the air. Sparks flew from the Bajoran's right leg and he went down to the ground. Lieutenant Adams turned to look and saw three Starfleet officers dressed completely in black and carrying phaser rifles appear on the upper half of the bridge. Adams jumped up out of his seat and took cover behind his station. He touched his badge, but he only got three short chirps in return. ~Communications must be out,~ thought Chris. ~I have to reach my phaser.~ Phaser blasts flew across the bridge as the bridge crew took up weapons against the intruders. Adams looked down at the base of his seat and reached through his workstation trying to get to the compartment where an extra phaser was stored. Stretching, he tapped the top of the panel and it slid out of the way to reveal the butt of a phaser. Adams reached in and grabbed the phaser and peaked over the top of his workstation. The three intruders had taken out the rest of the bridge crew. Two were located near the rear of the bridge, near the science station, while the third was approaching from the left. Adams took aim at the closest one and fired. A stream of energy emerged from his phaser and sailed high to the left of the enemy solder, who immediately dove behind the navigation workstation. Noticing the phaser fire, one of the intruders at the rear of the bridge took a shot at Adams while the other approached from the opposite side trying to flank him. Adams sat back and counted to five. He popped up and fired at the approaching soldier and then quickly turned to his left and dispatched the other one who was near navigation. His position exposed, the third soldier took advantage shooting Adams clear in the chest, knocking him on his back. "Computer. Freeze program," stated Adams wincing as he got back to his feet. "Analyze and report." The smoke and the lights on the bridge froze and an arch appeared to Adam's left. He walked over to it to see the report on how he did. The report consisted of a list of his actions during the simulation, some were highlighted in green and some highlighted in red. "Computer. Time?" asked Adams. "The time is 1323 hours," responded the computer in it's familiar monotone voice. ~I have to get to my operations meeting,~ thought Adams. "Save progress on Battle Training Trei Two Operations Scene and end program," stated Adams to the computer. The bridge disappeared revealing the familiar yellow holodeck grid. The doors opened up and Adams walked out of the holodeck. (reply any) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 4, General Conference Room - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1330) It had been a busy afternoon since Captain Straton had announced their new mission: the liberation of Betazed. The news of the new mission spread through all eighty-six hundred crew members like wild fire and in turn raised the level of excitement on the ship. After lunch, Lieutenant Adams met up with Commander Remae where he explained the need to be battle ready. Leaving the commander's office, Adams called a meeting with his fellow operations officers. Adams stood at the head of the table hands planted on the surface. "As you may have heard, we are heading to Betazed." A few celebrations could be quietly heard from the other members of the team. "We are meeting up with a contingency of over two hundred ships and from there Captain Straton will take command of this task force. With that many ships, it means our job has just gotten a whole lot tougher. We now have not only coordinate all the information from the duty stations around the ship, we have to coordinate all the information from the other ships on top of that. "Effective immediately, we will be starting twelve hour shifts," continued Adams. "These will be rolling shifts so that we have four people on duty at all times. Every four hours one person will roll on and one person will roll off. We will have two people on the bridge at all times and the other two will be positioned on the Auxiliary Bridge. All information will go to the team on the Auxiliary Bridge first. They will serve as an information filter. You should only pass on the highest priority data to the bridge. The bridge will be the point for querying information from the different duty stations and ships in the fleet. They will also pass on the relevant information to the commanding officer on the bridge. Any questions?" Lieutenant Boocher raised his hand and Adams acknowledge him with a nod of the head. "What if the ones in the Auxiliary Bridge loose communication with the rest of the ship?" asked the young lieutenant. "How are we supposed to pass on the information." "Good question," replied Chris. "I will order a half dozen crewmen to be on duty on the Aux Bridge. If it comes to that, start up a series of runners to go to each duty station and get the information. Any other questions?" "Good. If I'm not on duty and we go to red alert, you must wake me up immediately and I will take point on the bridge. Hastings and Smith, you are off duty first. Hastings report to the Bridge in four hours. Smith in eight. Catar and Sular, you will take the Auxiliary Bridge. Boocher, you are with me on the main bridge. "Okay, people. This is the mission we have been waiting for. We are finally taking action and with any luck, we will are months away from downing some beers back at the 602 Club in San Francisco." Another round of celebration, this time louder, came from the human members of the operation team. "Let's be at the top of our game at all times. Dismissed." (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1501) Lieutenant Adams sat at his duty station on the bridge going through the new holographic interface that was installed. It had taken him a few weeks to get used to all the sensor data coming to him in three dimensions, but he could now sort through different sets and dig down into the information he needed at lightning speeds. With a swipe of his hand he brought up the navigational data. They were still 46 hours from their rendezvous with the task force at the Kalandra sector. Over his shoulder, Commander Remae Ktell sat in the captain's chair watching the view screen. "Red Alert…all hands to battle station!" shouted the first officer. Adams brought down the navigation data and pushed the keyboard area reserved for sending the ship into general quarters. With a press of the button, the bridge lighting dimmed and the klaxons started blaring. "Ensign Brownlee," continued the first officer. "Increase speed to maximum warp, Engineering, this is the Bridge, I want maximum warp for as long as we can hold it. Mr. Adams, I want to hear when every department is at Battle Stations readiness." Lieutenant Adams's fingers flew over the keyboard, requesting a general quarters readiness alert from each duty station. (reply Weir, Menelian, Matrix, Joran Brownlee, Rath) "Understood, sir," responded Adams waiting for the duty station officers to reply to his query. (reply Weir, Menelian, Matrix, Joran Brownlee, Rath, any) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Main Engineering-Command Sky bridge - Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 1435) Matrix was in his newly remodeled office taking note of the refit to engineering. The refit of the Paladin was extensive. With the exception of the operations and engineering crew most didn't fully realize the changes onboard. Most were technology upgrades and not readily visible. Other areas of the ship were physically changed, none more dynamic as engineering. Engineering still encompassed nine decks, but now included what was referred to as the sky bridge within main engineering. Its resembled a large cat walk between decks overlooking main engineering and was constructed around the warp cores. The sky bridge included upgraded workstations and offices for engineering personnel to conduct repairs, upgrades and testing. The sky bridge also included an ingenious hoist and crane system which could reach most areas within engineering and folded away when not in use. When deployed it could be used to remove the antimatter pods, warp cores or any other heavy or bulky equipment. The main floor also opened up and away as needed to conduct repairs, accessing power conduits, circuits or for testing. Other than the sky bridge, the most noticeable structural change inside engineering was the placement of the warp cores and antimatter chambers. The three warp cores were reengineered and repositioned at 25 degree angles off the main engineering deck and were evenly spaced relative to one another. The crew affectionately called it Sherwood Forest. Below main engineering the warp cores were focused into the new antimatter inducers. The logic of the refit was an anticipated efficiency of nearly 25 percent and better heat dissipation. The new arrangement also offered an increase in useable space on the main deck. The overall look of engineering was much different than prior to the refit. Engineering had been bright and somewhat of a sterile appearance. Every workstation, computer panel and office within the nine engineering decks was remodeled with upgraded computer conduits and panels and were jet black when not in use. Overall engineering was much darker with only light coming from the main status boards and island at the center of the room. Active panels along the offices and walls helped eliminate the room when they were in use with new recessed light panels in the walls about a meter off the floor. Under normal ships conditions these glowed a soft, deep blue, but could change with the alert conditions within the ship or engineering. Amber lighting indicated degraded engineering operations or extensive testing, usual for repair operations or diagnostics with any of the main systems. Yellow indicated the ships condition yellow and red for condition red. Green indicated unsafe conditions and a visible warning to personnel to stay clear of that particular area or observe protective gear. The main engineering doors also included a light band using these new color codes, potentially warning of anything inside engineering. Through the main engineering entry you were greeted by nine new display panels which were larger and offered a quick look at the status of any of the ships systems and conditions. These hung below a section of the sky bridge and were visible from almost any where inside main engineering. Each panel was nearly two meters in width and 1.5 meters tall and all were arranged in a outward circular pattern around the engineering command island. Each could be reconfigured to display any information desired. The three center displays were usually reserved for engineering status, operation conditions and overall ship status with sections devoted to critical systems. These could be removed, moved or folded up into the floor of the sky bridge when not in use. The command island sat in the middle of main engineering about 45 feet from the main section of the sky bridge and Sherwood forest. The command island wasn't a new idea, but it was much larger than before and offered hide-away workbenches and tools. The entire island in its standard configuration was rectangular shaped with its sides wider than each end, and measured 4 by 7 meters. Its middle section measuring nearly 5 meters. It acted as an information display and could be reconfigured to display any information as required. Access panels within the command island deployed adjustable monitors, 3D holographic emitters and other tools. The island could also be moved or rearranged to accommodate equipment and acted as a staging platform for equipment repairs. The entire island retracted into the floor when additional space was required. Another upgrade included a dedicated computer core for engineering to conduct testing and research. This would prove useful when virtual testing was necessary and could augment the computing capacity of any system within the ship as needed. The engineering computer core could also take over any of the main department duties if any other core were taken offline or failed. (Reply none, any) (Posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Pilot briefing room, Pilot Officer Smith– 15.00) Jennifer looked at her pilots who were seated in front of her. She had informed them of the orders of the new FO. "Red Alert... all hands to battle stations!", The klaxon sounded and the lights dimmed. ~Looks like were in for some fun~ “Okay every one. Lets get going. Good hunting.” She watched as her pilots got up and piled out of the briefing room. She was the last one out as she headed for the flight deck. (USS Paladin, Flight deck, Pilot Officer Smith, 15.05) Jennifer ran up to her fighter. She scrambled in and fastened herself in to her seat. “Computer begin emergency start up.” As the hatch closed she brought the fighters systems up to speed. She watched as she was the other started up. When her command screen went green she opened her comm system. “Paladin control this is Alpha flight lead, Lead of ‘Sharkbait’ squadron. We are go for combat launch.” =^= Alpha flight lead this is Paladin Control go for launch =^= She jammed the throttle into combat speed. The G-force increased and she was pushed into her seat. Her fighter leaped off the flight deck and into space along with the rest of the squadron. She manovered inside the shields until the squadron was in battle formation. “Alpha flight lead to Paladin control. Were in combat formation.” (reply any) (posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.01) ^= Red Alert. Everyone to battle stations. =^ Red Klaxons blazed in Security. Detron rushed out of his quarters to prepare the department for battle. "OK. All officers grab a phaser. Four officers at every corridor access point. Search and secure units of six officers each deploy 2 units per department. Go now!! Rolling 12 hour shifts on guard detail. Lets go. I will stay here in Security to help coordinate" Officers executed their orders. Detron stayed back waiting for status reports. ~If this is not real, it sure feels real.~ (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Main Engineering-Command Sky bridge - Lieutenant Steven Matrix - 1501) Matrix had been monitoring the propulsion systems from the new engineering sky bridge. It spanned the new engine cores and ran along the main antimatter cores and overlooked engineering. The structure was an upgrade designed to enhance structural stability by offsetting the antimatter inducers by 25 degrees relative to the main engineering floor. From the main engineering deck looking forward it looks like Sherwood forest. The refit of the engine cores enhanced overall efficiency by nearly 25 percent and helped focus the antimatter inducers below. It also increased the Paladin's capacity to dissipate heat as needed through a new conduit system in the lower decks of engineering. There were other enhancements to engineering not apparent since the refit. In time these new enhancements might become useful. Matrix heard the bridge hail... "... Engineering, this is the Bridge, I want maximum warp for as long as we can hold it. Mr. Adams, I want to hear when every department is at Battle Stations readiness." =^=Bridge, engineering. Lieutenant Matrix. Engines are at full warp. We'll hold her together for as long as possible. Mr. Adams. Matrix out.=^= Matrix leaned over the new sky bridge that oversaw all of main engineering. The refit was at least pleasing to the eye. The buzz of activity below contributed to the excitement. ~We're ready Captain. Lets bring the fight to them this time.~ thought Matrix. (Reply any, none) (Posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security - Ensign JG Niles George - 15.02) "Red Alert! All hands to battle stations!" Niles heard over the ship wide communications system. ~Alright, let me think where do I go? Wait, now I remember!~ Niles wondered around the corner and just in time to hear Ensign Detron Trei say,"OK, all officers grab a phaser. Four officers at every corridor access point. Search and secure units of six officers each deploy two units per department. Go now!! Rolling 12 hour shifts on guard detail. Lets go. I will stay here in Security to help coordinate." Niles rushed up to Detron and asked,"Sir, do you know what's going on?" (Reply Detron Trei) "Alright, I better get to my position," Niles said,"I will report back to you later." He continued to rush down the corridor to his post and stood there to await further orders. (Reply Detron Trei, Any) (Posted by Niles George) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.03) After Detron completed his orders, Ensign George ran up to him. Detron considered what to do with him. "OK Ensign George. I will stay here in the north end. You stand post in the south end and inform me of incoming status reports." Detron stood his post. (Reply George) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1516) Lieutenant Adams stared at the chronometer on his Ops display tick away the minutes. He could feel First Officer Commander Remae eyes burrowing holes in the back of his head as he waited. Finally the last station reported at general quarters. "All stations report battle station readiness." "Mr. Adams, where are our fighters, are they able to keep up with us at this speed?" asked the first officer. The operations officer typed a few commands into his workstation and a three dimensional version of the Gueken Fighter appeared floating above the display along with the ship's specifications. "All three squadrons have just completed their launch and are rapidly falling behind, sir. The maximum speed of a Gueken Fighter in non-burnout mode is warp 4.5. We are traveling at warp 7.5." "Very well, emergency deceleration -- take us to half impulse," replied Remae. The empty sector of space suddenly came to life as the massive Paladin came out of warp with a flash of light. Following close behind her, dozens of smaller fighters came out of warp lighting up the void like tiny explosions next to the massive ship. Back on the bridge Commander Remae was ready to unleash his simulated attack. Lieutenant Adams's sensors lit up as two enemy Federation starships winked into existence. "Simulated targets ahead. Standby," ordered the first officer. "Fire at will." The panel next to this chair beeped a warning at him. "Somehow, we've got boarding parties on decks 15 and 16... Security, intruder alert on Decks 15 and 16." Lieutenant Adams looked at the various readings on his workstation. "Somehow they have obtained our prefix codes and read the frequency of our shield modulation allowing them to beam through our shields. I've changed our codes and scrambled our shield frequency. This should prevent any more getting on board." Suddenly a phaser beam cut across the bridge hitting near the forward view screen. Chris heard returning phaser fire and got up from his station to take cover. With a feeling of deja vu, he reached below his workstation to the hidden panel where he kept his phaser. He reached in and grabbed the end of his phaser and peaked over the top of his workstation to evaluate the situation on the bridge. Another phase blast flew over narrowing missing his head. A Starfleet marine dressed completely in black stood at the starboard entrance to the bridge phaser in hand. Three more were filing in behind him exiting the turbolift. Adams took a shot at the leading one hitting him in the chest and he disappeared. (reply all) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 16 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1517) "Security, intruder alert on Decks 15 and 16," Ensign George heard come through his combadge. ~That's some Civilian decks. What would they want there? Whoever or whatever they are.~ Niles had a dilemma. Either, go help, three decks down or stay at his post and follow orders. He thought it over and shook his head in frustration. ~I'm going to get in trouble for this.~ Niles ran over towards the nearest turbolift and stepped in, "Deck 15!" he yelled. He began to hear a whizzing sound and could feel himself descending. After awhile, the turbolift doors opened and he looked around the corners to see if anyone was there. There wasn't, so he slowly walked down the corridor as he could feel the adrenaline pumping. As he reached a three way corridor, he noticed a shadow. He jumped back into a door way backwards and watched the shadow. It wasn't moving, just sitting there. Stepping slowing away from the doorway to look, he saw a small human male on the ground. The man was wearing a teal Starfleet uniform, medical. ~He's probably from Medical Research Facilities.~ Niles continued observing the man from a distance. He looked back at the shadow, luckily it was still there. Niles jumped and turned around when he heard someone behind him yell, "Hey you!" only to see a Starfleet marine. Niles seemed relieved for a moment when all of a sudden the marine pull out a phaser and fired. He rolled out of the way, following the sound of an exploding panel. Niles took out his phaser and returned fire. Hitting the man in the chest, the man disappeared. Niles was shocked. ~Did I just vaporize him!~ Niles looked at his phaser settings. It was on maximum, he had forgot that he had set it to maximum when they went to Red Alert. Quickly, he turned around in the direction of the shadow, still lieing on the ground. The shadow had become more than just a simple shadow, it had become a second marine. The marine lifted his phaser up, aimed, and fired. Niles rolled out of the way and stood up. After he got up he started running at the marine, tackling him to the ground. The marine rolled away and pulled out a knife. Niles, from all the years of training, had learned to keep a back up plan. He turned around and ran. Half way done the corridor Niles, looked over his shoulder and saw the marine still following him, without a phaser. The two of them kept running. Then, Niles ran around a corner and stopped. He got up against the wall and waited till the marine ran by. Just as expected the marine started to come around the corner. Niles put his hand in a fist and stuck his arm out in front of the marine. The marine hit Niles's arm and did a 270 degree back-flip on to the floor. Niles shook his arm in pain and then the marine disappeared as the other one did. ~What the...~ Niles started to walked back down the hall to the injured man. (Reply Any) (Posted by Niles George) ======================================================================================================================== (Orbit of the Paladin, Pilot Officer Smith- 15.18) Jennifer watched her HUD screen as she kept station with her squadron and the Paladin. Her console peeped at her. The Paladin was decelerating quickly. ~Looks like we have arrived~ As they decelerated two vessels appeared on her sensor screens. They were designated as enemy targets from the Paladin. Her squadron accelerated to attach speed. “Bravo and charley flight this is lead. Keep it tight and together.” =^= copy Bravo =^= =^= copy Charley =^= =^= Fire at will.=^= As Jennifer got the command from the Paladin. She watched as the Paladin opened fire on the enemy ships. “Power up the phaser cannons and the torpedoes.” She watched as the range counter spooled down. ~Here we go~ “Flight lead to all flights open fire.” With that she his the fire button. She had joined the battle. (Reply any) (posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.18) Detron saw Ensign George run to the turbo lift. Before he could stop him , he disappeared down to the civilian decks. Detron suspected Ensign George was going to assist capturing intruders on those decks. This technically was disobeying direct orders, but Detron would give him some room for interpretation since we are preparing for battle. That did not mean Detron would not talk sternly with Ensign George after. An order is an order unless specified otherwise. He waited 5 minutes then tapped his com badge =^ Trei calling Ensign George. Report of your status now and explain your actions. =^ (Reply George) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 15 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1523) =^= Trei calling Ensign George. Report of your status now and explain your actions. =^= Niles heard over his combadge, just as he had reached the medical crewman. Niles turned his head up towards the ceiling and then back down to the floor, for he knew he was about to get in trouble for his actions. ~Here we go...~ He finally got the courage and tapped his combadge. =^= I'm sorry Sir, I know I disobeyed your orders, but right now I need a medical team. There's an unconscious man down here, from the medical research facilities by the look of it. =/\= Niles knelt down to the man. =^= I also think we have a bigger problem. I don't know how or why, but we have hostile Starfleet marines aboard. They come and then vanish. I'll stay here till help arrives and report to you if any knew information comes my way, before returning to my post. Niles out. =^= (Reply Trei) Niles observed the man. He did not recognize the man, even after hours of crew background histories. He ignored the thought and took cover in a doorway to watch for anyone coming. He didn't see anyone, yet. (Reply Trei, Any) (Posted by Niles George) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.24) Detron tapped his com badge. ^= Very well Ensign be careful. I'm sending the nearest unit down for support. Report when you can. Trei out.=^ =^Available secure unit go to deck 15 and Medical needed now. Secure unit and Medical to Deck 15=^ Detron prepared for intruders. He set his phaser to high stun and took a defensive stance. "Two security officers cover me. Phasers on high stun. now." (Reply George) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 15 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1525) "Very well Ensign be careful. I'm sending the nearest unit down for support. Report when you can. Trei out..." Niles heard over his combadge. He kept appearing around the corners of the doorway as if someone was going to jump out and yell "surprise." After a few minutes, he got worried. No one, not even a marine ran by. Niles peered around the corner another time, only this time he saw someones shadow coming. The shadow was just as big and was just as curious looking as the last one. Niles knelt down and aimed his phaser. ~Please don't be a marine, please don't be a marine, please don't be a marine.~ The now called "shadows" came around the corridor, and just as hoped, it was a three medical officers and two security officers. Niles lowered his phaser and walked towards them. "Sir, are you alright?" asked one of the medical personnel. "Yes, but I'm not the one who needs help," Niles pointed to the man on the floor, "I found him this way. I don't recognize him or know why he's unconscious, but I do know we need to get him to sickbay, fast." "Yes, Sir," the petty officer turned halfway around and noticed a cut on Niles's shoulder,"are you sure you don't need me to check you out?" "No, I'll be fine, just get him to sickbay, now!" The petty officer nodded and walked over to the other two medical officers. After the officer left, one of the security crewman came up to Niles. "Sir, we will stick with you," said the crewman. "No, I need you to escort these people to sickbay! I will report back to Ensign Trei," he responded. Niles looked back to the medical team and asked,"Something wrong?" The team looked at each other and replied,"Well, I can't explain it, we aren't getting any life readings on this man." He looked at the team with question,"What do you mean?" "I mean, I don't read any life signs, it's like he isn't even there. He isn't dead I know that much." Niles walked over to the man knelled down. He observed the man closely and saw something on the man's neck. ~What's this?~ Niles pulled it and the man vanished just as the marines did. ~Oh, not again.~ "Sir, what just happened?" asked one of the security crewman. "I don't know, but somethings going on and I don't like it." =^= Ensign George to Ensign Trei. We have some new news, I think... =^= (Reply Trei, Any) (Posted by Niles George) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security - ACTO Ensign(SG) Detron Trei - 15.26) Detron heard Ensign George over his com badge. ^=Ensign George to Ensign Trei We may have something interesting going on and I don't like it=^ ^= Trei Here. What can you tell me =^ (Reply George) (Posted by Edward) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 15 - Ensign JG Niles George - 1527) Niles heard,"Trei Here, what can you tell me?" before responding back. "Well, Sir. I'm not sure, but I don't think these are real people. I found this device on the unconscious man, when I pulled it off the man disappeared. I will head back with my team to your location." (Reply Trei) Niles looked over to the two security men, both of them still looking curious and shocked at the same time. "We have to get back up to the security department. I'll lead the medical team back, you two will secure this deck at your own risk." He looked at the medical personnel,"Lets get moving." "Yes, Sir!" they all replied. Niles headed down the hall and got in the turbolift with the other crewmembers. (Reply Trei, Any) (Posted by Niles George) ======================================================================================================================== (Space – Gueken fighter – Pilot Officer Smith -1533) Jennifer turned her fighter into a snap role. ~Come on come on, Lock Lock~ Her run was perfect the target was right where she wanted it. She could not miss the big starship from this distance. [Warning, Warning, Missile lock, Missile Lock] ~B******s~ Jennifer stomped on the foot peddle as her fighter slew left and skidded across space. Decoys spat out of there launchers. Jennifer snap rolled and went into a ‘dive’. She saw the hull of the enemy starship hurtle towards her. [Warning, Warning, Collision Immanent, Collision Immanent, Pull Up, Pull up] “Don’t blow a fuse.” ~Come Come on, a little closer~ “Now.” She spun her fighter up ninety degrees. Her stomach dropped and felt all the blood pool into her boots. She slammed the impulse engines into max and rocketed away. The following torpedo was not that luck. Momentarily confused by the changing signature of the fighter, decoys it lost lock and hammered into the star ship’s shields. Jennifer pulled her fighter out of the ‘clime’ and set about looking for a new target. (reply any) (posted by Robbie) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1900) Eva turned off her terminal and leaned back in her chair. She'd spent the majority of the day in StratOps with Commander Rulestaad getting things rolling for the Task Force. There was still a lot of work to do in that department, and she would be returning to StratOps shortly for another brain storming session but she had taken an hour off for dinner and to catch up with ship status. She took a sip of her iced tea and closed her eyes thinking of the events of the past day and what was likely to come. ~Having to invade my home world again, as if the first time wasn't bad enough. This time though I am leading the invasion not just another officer in the fleet. All those that are about to die will be dying at my command, on both sides of this fight, and all of them will be dedicated Star Fleet personnel. Even more blood on my hands, blood that will never wash off.~ Eva signed as she sat up and put her drink back on her desk. She knew the danger of her thoughts. She could not afford to lose her resolve, not now. The fate of the Federation hung in the balance. She would mourn the dead after the fighting was done and not before. ~Have to keep my eye on the goal: restoring freedom to the people of the Federation and throwing down the tyrant Doenitz.~ She looked at her blank terminal screen before tapping her comm-badge. "Straton to Commander Ktell," She said smartly, "Report to my Ready Room immediately." (Reply Ktell) She didn't have to wait long before the door buzzer sounded. She looked up knowing it would be Commander Ktell. "Enter," She said. She watched as Ktell entered the room and came to a stop in front of her desk. "Have a seat Commander," She said, motioning to one of the chairs in front of her desk. "Grab a drink, if you like, we have some matters to discuss." (Reply Ktell) Once the Commander was seated and she had his undivided attention, she put her hands on her desk, fingers interlaced. "First, I've been reviewing ship status reports and the results of the drills you ran earlier today,"She said, watching the Commander. "I would like your view on the crews current status. I am also considering naming a new Second Officer to assist you with the day to day running of the ship during this next mission. They would serve as your acting First Officer while I am otherwise engage in StratOps with the Task Force and the pending mission. Is there anyone you would recommend for the position?" (Reply Ktell, Any) (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 19.05) =^= Straton to Commander Ktell =^= ~ Commander Remae ~ Remae had spent more time around Stafleet Officers rather than his own people and was happy for his Starfleet Name to be used but he hoped that members of the crew would begin his name correctly, he always preferred Commander Remae to Commander Ktell. They had secured from the battle simulation but Remae was a little surprised to hear the Captain's voice, it had been a while. =^= Report to my Ready Room immediately =^= "Aye Captain.", he said standing up and passing command of the Bridge to the senior officer. (USS Paladin, Ready Room, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 19.08) The Bajoran was granted access to the CO's office and upon entering, the Captain said, "Have a seat Commander.", she said and then added, "Grab a drink, if you like, we have some matters to discuss." "Thanks Captain.", was all head said as he headed over the replicator and ordered a large cup of water. It had been a long day and he hadn't eaten... he took his seat. "First, I've been reviewing ship status reports and the results of the drills you ran earlier today.", she said, Remae wasn't all surprised and simply nodded as she continued, "I would like your view on the crews current status. I am also considering naming a new Second Officer to assist you with the day to day running of the ship during this next mission. They would serve as your acting First Officer while I am otherwise engage in StratOps with the Task Force and the pending mission. Is there anyone you would recommend for the position?", she said stopping and allowed him to speak. Remae had a PADD, he often carried one and this one contained the battle results from his point of view, with recommendations and so on but the question regarding the Second Officer caught him by surprise but he gave the matter some thought before answering. "I've had time to watch the crew, Captain and I have only one name for you, Lieutenant Adams, our Chief of Operations. My reasoning is as follows, he knows the ship and procedures well, a dependable officer and his record shows that he has an aptitude for command. In fact, he's assisted me with several administration duties already and was invaluable during the refit.", he said pausing and allowing the CO to absorb the information. (Reply from Straton) "As for the battle simulation, all the modifications made to the Paladin operated well under battle stress. I was eager to test the warp drive and I was also interested to see how the Security Forces would handle intruders, I am going to recommend that all senior officers spent time on the holodeck with their side arms, I want everyone to get very familiar with their operation. We had more than one bulkhead damaged with misfires and wrong phaser settings! I understand the OPS will be spending sometime in repairing them.", he paused again and took a sip of water before continuing. "The simulation had more than one firefight in the middle of the civilian section of the ship, although I don't have a lot of contact with them, I wanted to guide how they would react and how Security dealt with non-Starfleet personnel in a firefight. The results are quite interesting.", he said and he didn't elaborate before moving on, "The only department that didn't get a real workout was the Science Department but I am planning a few small missions for them to undertake before we reach our destination.", he said pausing once more. "I was impressed with the fighters of the ship, having limited experienced with them, I am planning an initiation flight with Pilot Officer Smith tomorrow, I need to understand how these resources are best used on the battlefield.", he said pausing again to hand the Captain his pre-written full report on the battle simulation. "My entire report is there Captain, including the security deployments to all decks, changes the fighter launch schedule and the new warp core procedures. The core will never be below 90% of plasma production from now to the end of this mission.", he said hoping he had covered everything vital. (Reply from Straton) "Captain, we've not discussed it at length... what is our arrival time with the fleet? Can I get a list of the makeup of the fleet we're being assigned to? Can you share any intelligence on what awaits us at Betazed. Having been there recently, I can tell you that the Spectre had a real tough time getting through the mass of the forces stationed there, I don't expect that has changed.", he said blurting out several questions at once and babbling on for a minute. He was only curious about what awaited them... if they were going to retake Betazed, it was going to be one hell of a battle. (Reply from Straton, Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1910) "I've had time to watch the crew, Captain and I have only one name for you, Lieutenant Adams, our Chief of Operations. My reasoning is as follows, he knows the ship and procedures well, a dependable officer and his record shows that he has an aptitude for command. In fact, he's assisted me with several administration duties already and was invaluable during the refit.", Commander Ktell replied. Eva nodded as she thought about what the Commander had said. ~Indeed Lt. Adams has come a long way since he first joined the crew as an Ensign fresh out of the Academy. His dedication to the ship and crew are evident.~ "Agreed," She said, "He's come a long way since joining the ship. I'll inform him of the promotion later today and have him report to you for coordination of assignments." (Reply Ktell IYW) Eva then listened to the Commanders assessment of the battle training simulation and taking the PADD containing the Commanders full report. She glanced at the report on the PADD briefly before turning her attention back to the Commander as he out lined the changes he had made in the day to day operations of the ship. Eva nodded indicating that she understood and approved of the changes. The Commander then asked questions about the up coming mission. "Captain, we've not discussed it at length... what is our arrival time with the fleet? Can I get a list of the makeup of the fleet we're being assigned to? Can you share any intelligence on what awaits us at Betazed. Having been there recently, I can tell you that the Spectre had a real tough time getting through the mass of the forces stationed there, I don't expect that has changed," Ktell said looking at her. "We will arrive at the rendezvous in two days," Eva answered, "The 21st Task Force will contain around 210 ships total. Roughly half that number is Klingon forces. We also have a sizable marine and Klingon ground force for landing on the surface. It is estimated that 150 to 180 enemy ships are currently deployed in or around the Betazed system. While I am quite familiar with the defenses around the Betazed system as well as the planet, I am still working on gathering more current intelligence on the current disposition of enemy forces in and around the system. I'm considering sending in either a single cloaked ship or a single fighter in an attempt to gather more up-to-date tactical data on what we might encounter in the system. It is something that Commander Rulestaad is having her staff run the numbers on. It will take us four days to reach the system from the rendezvous coordinates. I estimate the battle will begin in a week to 10 days time. That time may change depending on what intelligence we can gather in the mean time. If you would like to join Commander Rulestaad and I in the Strategic Operations Center in the morning, you can look over the data and offer your input on possible tactics. If you've been to Betazed recently, then your input could prove very valuable." (Reply Ktell, Any) (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 19.16) Remae listened to the CO's extended briefing on what they were facing. In two days, they were going to meet up with a task force and then proceed to Betazed. "... If you would like to join Commander Rulestaad and I in the Strategic Operations Center in the morning, you can look over the data and offer your input on possible tactics. If you've been to Betazed recently, then your input could prove very valuable.", she said finishing. "Yes Captain, I will recall all I can and be at the meeting. I have a flight in the morning with Pilot Officer Smith who is going to familiarise me with the tactics of the fighters we have and then I will be there.", he said and upon being dismissed, he returned to the Bridge. (USS Paladin, Bridge, FO, Commander Remae Ktell - 19.20) He returned to the command chair as the duty shift around him was changing, he was also replaced and the office in charge of the night shift took command. A few minutes later, he had given out the orders for the night, which amounted to nothing more than maintain course and speed and to alert him if anything happened. It wasn't long before he was off the bridge and looking for some dinner. (Reply from Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1930) Once Commander Remae had left, Eva activated her computer terminal before tapping her comm-badge. "Captain Straton to Lt. Adams," She said. (reply Adams) "Report to my Ready Room Lt," She said, closing the connection after Adams acknowledged the order. She began making the necessary changes to appoint Adams as the new Second Officer. She didn't have to wait long before her door buzzer sounded. "Enter," She said, knowing that it was Adams. She watched as the young man entered her office and came smartly to attention in front of her desk. "At ease Lt," She said, before motioning to one of the chairs in front of her desk. "Have a seat, Lieutenant. I would like your assessment of the ship and crews battle readiness. In your opinion is this ship and crew ready for the battle that is to come?" (Reply Adams, any) (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 1, Bridge - Lieutenant JG Christopher Adams - 1931) Lieutenant Christopher Adams was sitting at his duty station getting ready for the shift change when the his station beeped with an incoming message. =^=Captain Straton to Lt. Adams,=^= came Captain Straton's voice over the comm channel. Adams touched a panel on his workstation. "Yes, Captain? What do you need?" he asked. =^=Report to my Ready Room, Lieutenant,=^= responded the captain and then the channel went dead. Without skipping a beat, Adams gave a nod to Lieutenant Boocher, who came and took over his duty station while he attended to what the captain needed. He walked the few feet to the entrance to her Ready Room door and pushed the door chime. "Enter," he heard the captain's voice from behind the door. The doors slid open and Adams approached the captain's desk and stood at attention. "At ease Lieutenant," she said. "Have a seat, Lieutenant." Motioning to one of the seats in front. Adams took a seat while she continued, "I would like your assessment of the ship and crews battle readiness. In your opinion is this ship and crew ready for the battle that is to come?" Adams took a few seconds to think over his response. "I think we need a few more battle simulations. The response time for our surprise simulation was pretty bad. It was almost a full fifteen minutes before all stations reported as battle station ready. However, I think we are all just a little rusty. We are still 41.5 hours from the Kalandra sector and I have confidence we can be ready by then." (reply Straton, any) (posted by Jason French) ======================================================================================================================== ************************************************************************************************************************ ======================================================================================================================== Mission: Mjolnir's Fury Day: 13 Stardate: 2407.07.04 ======================================================================================================================== (Earth: Paris, France - Office of the President - President Rodrigo Doenitz - 0900) ======================================================================================================================== (Earth: Paris, France - Office of the President - President Rodrigo Doenitz - 0900) "It has been confirmed Mister President, Caladryll Sevant is in charge of the 19th Task Force, they're going to head our way soon. LoDona is somewhere in the area, along with all his forces. They're constantly changing position, but I think we have a fairly accurate map of their relative forces. Most of our agents have been... neutralized, unfortunately, so the traitor's greater strategy is as yet unknown." "Fool," Rodrigo said, looking at the map. "They don't need much strategy, they have almost enough force to break past the Perimeter and have enough to take us whole." The Admiral of the Fleet, Fleet Admiral Ricardo, nodded once. The man wasn't stupid, even if he was a political appointee... one of Doenitz's most faithful. In fact, being that close to Doenitz for so many years made him exceptionally intelligent... he would have had to been in order to survive. "This Sevant, what do we have on him?" Doenitz asked. "He was part of the ill-fated mission with Aragorn, the First Officer. His family was put to the knife to make a point... it wasn't taken. He was also captured about six months ago and scheduled for trial and execution as a Commodore of the 52nd fleet; he commanded one of their task forces. They managed to break him out though. His psychological records from Meridian Undersea Base suggest that he's got a strategic mind and he won't give up. Stratops says that he'd rather die then surrender, the records they have of him say that his Vulcan-oid personality will have reasserted itself after his emotional ties were, eh, removed." "We can use that against him," Rodrigo mused as he sat back in his chair. "We should have shut Meridian down sooner; the officers that came out of it have been a thorn in my side. Many of the Captain's coming against us now came out of that little gem." "Yes, Sir." the Fleet Admiral said. "How about the other Task Forces', do we know what their goals are?" "If our few agents are to be believed," the Fleet Admiral said. "Then they'll all pile onto Earth after the 19th breaks the Mars Defense Perimeter. We think Sevant will go gung-ho, straight for Earth himself. That many ships can pierce quite a large hole, the rest of the fleet can follow before the MDP can recover." "Hmm, maybe." Doenitz said. "They could also make a dash for Starbase Valhalla." "They'd be suicidal if they did, that's the strongest part of the Perimeter. But whatever they decide to do, we have the 1st fleet ready to move, plus all the reinforcements we've pulled into Sol. They'll be in for quite a surprise." Doenitz mulled over this as he looked at the force-dispositions. He had commanded troops in battle, but it wasn't his forte. He had risen so far by being in charge of black projects, not through the usual fleet commands. However, he wasn't stupid, and the numbers he was looking at didn't excite him. ~How could it have come to this?~ he mused, angrily. Finally he said, "I'm moving to Starfleet Command, have an office prepared immediately Admiral." "Yes Sir." He stood, "And get Yohen down here, we have some plans to make for our... special projects." The Fleet Admiral nodded once before taking his leave. Doenitz crossed his arms behind him and looked out of his window at the city of Paris. It wasn't nearly as pretty as it had been when he'd taken command, troops were everywhere, heavy weapons emplacements had been moved in to protect the President. Still, it could have been worse. San Francisco was even more heavily fortified, and he'd be there shortly. Rodrigo never gave up without a fight, after all. (reply: none, yet) (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== ************************************************************************************************************************ ======================================================================================================================== Mission: Mjolnir's Fury Day: 14 Stardate: 2407.07.05 ======================================================================================================================== (USS Boudicca - Admiral's War Room - Admiral Sevant - 14.10) (USS Steel Talons - Admiral's War Room - Admiral LoDona - 14.12) (IKV Ja'Kooth - High Council Chambers - Ambassador Miador Tane - 14.12) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Boudicca - Admiral's War Room - Admiral Sevant - 14.10) Sevant looked at the holomap with his arms crossed behind his back. It was now being updated by the minute from every Task Force and Fleet in the area, thousands of ships, tens of thousands. Millions of men. Every ship was ready to begin. Smaller battles were already taking place on some outlying regions, the Paladin's Task Force was being hit by several smaller battle groups, trying to take back the strategically important planet of Betazed. Falthgood was beside him, for once not wearing any shades, and looking more solemn then the Admiral had ever witnessed. They were, for now, the only two left in the room. He'd chased the rest of his planning staff out so he could have a few moments of silence before they began. He pushed a button on the table. =^= Yes Admiral?=^= "Send a message to the entire 19th and to Admiral LoDona. 'Cross the River Acheron.'... and send in my staff." "Yes Sir." The aide said just before the line went dead. NRPG: Something like the Japanese did before the launch of Pearl Harbor, "Climb Mount Niitaka". It's a code phrase that lets everyone know that hostilities are beginning as planned. RPG: Sevant looked up at the ceiling for a moment. Stratops had already cut the appropriate orders. Once they received this message, all the CO's would move into pre-planned positions for warp into the Terran Solar System. The battle command would put into motion everything they had worked for up to this point. He looked at Falthgood, "Are you ready?" The larger man only smiled. ~Strange individual.~ Sevant thought as the doors opened and the rest of his planning staff stepped in to take their places. "The battle begins soon, lets be ready." Sevant said to nobody in particular. "Open up a constant link to Strategic Operations." (reply: Various CO's) (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Steel Talons - Admiral's War Room - Admiral LoDona - 14.12) "Sir, message from Admiral Sevant-TF19, 'Cross the River Acheron'." LoDona, standing at the holo-table and looking over the total battle plan and fleet movements, nodded once. "Then it has begun, send a message to all other Task Force Commanders- Sail the River Styx, Prepare to launch at my command." "Immediately, Sir!" the aide said before running off to his communications console. He looked at another aide, "Send to the Ja'Kooth, request that they join our battle-line." He sighed, the last thing they would need was for the Klingon High Chancellor to rush off head-first into battle, probably with the 19th, and commit suicide against the Mars Defense Perimeter. He'd chosen Sevant as the Task Force Commander of the 19th because the man was strategically brilliant, and more then a little stubborn. He'd either break the line, or he'd break his fleet trying. LoDona rubbed his Borg Implant and looked over; Admiral Lee was watching the same map he was. Lee was no longer the head of Strategic Operations for the 52nd, LoDona had been forced to replace him when he'd been captured by forces loyal to Doenitz, but he was still part of the Admiral's personal staff and now his Stratops advisor. What LoDona might miss, Lee would see, and vice versa. Or so went the theory. The Fleet Admiral turned his attention from Lee, back to the table. It had indeed begun... but how would it end? (reply: none, yet) (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (IKV Ja'Kooth - High Council Chambers - Ambassador Miador Tane - 14.12) Miador took the PADD he was offered and looked at it. His face was grave, for all the martial feelings he harbored after living with Klingons in the midst of war for six months. All those years he'd spent on Qo'Nos, all those fights and brawls... even saving the Chancellor and then being named as Miador Tane, of the House of Tane, hadn't prepared him for the butchery and blood-lust that was the Klingon Empire at War. For once being a pacifist, the constant warfare was beginning to wear on his nerves. He stepped into the ring of High Counselors and offered up the PADD, and in Klingon said in a strong voice: "Cross the River Acheron." The Chancellor, his friend and confidant for so many years, smiled as though he was a boy given his first hunting rifle. "You Federalites have such strange ways of saying 'Let there be war!'" he bellowed, followed with an amused chuckle. The High Council laughed with him, and well they should, they were winning after all. There was much honor in winning, especially when they had begun with such impossible odds. Tane figured they saw it as a justification for their way of life... and endless excuse to get wildly drunk every night when there wasn't combat. He'd been to more parties in the last three months then in all his time since he'd last stepped foot in the Klingon Empire. And now he has a pair of bite marks on his left thigh, to match those on the right... but that was something that he wasn't going to think about just now. "The fleets are beginning to move," the High Admiral of the Klingon Fleet said. "We've just received all the pre-prepared orders. Admiral LoDona requests the presence of the Ja'Kooth with the Steel Talons, on their drive to Earth." The Chancellor nodded, "There will be plenty of glory for us, Earth is one of the most protected gems in this sector." He stood from his chair, "How strange, we go to destroy the Defense Perimeter... not to conquer our old enemies, but to help new allies. Destiny and Fate, they play ticks on us, eh... old friend?" "I don't believe in Fate," Tane said. It was an old argument, one they'd had often before. "Perhaps," the Chancellor said as he shrugged off his robes and put them on his traveling throne. "In eithercase, we have preparations to make. All of you, to your ships... we begin!" (reply: none) (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== *** End Transmission ***