Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward - TAC/SC Ensign Kateb - 1230) Onyx was in Ten Forward eating when the message of the senior staff meeting came through, she was just finishing eating her italien lasagna gooey with cheese. =/\=Sash to all senior staff memeberss. There will be a general staff meeting in conference room 1 at 1300 hours. Please have all status reports ready at that time. Sash out.=/\= "Well, I guess I have to get ready... me who was thinking that I would have a day of peace." She got up and had to go to her office to get a few things together for the meeting. Stardate:2406.10.02 Mission: Fuel for Thought Mission Day 1 Stardate: 2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - En-Route to Conference Room 1 - Zach and Shondar Dorkin-1255) "Bridge," Zach said as he stepped inside the turbolift. He crossed his arms and looked around. There was only one other occupant in the room, a short furry thing that stood only just above Zach's waist. The Science Officer bent his head down and looked at the being from over his shades, then grunted. Shondar, the furry Tellarite, looked over and up at the grunt. After a solid three seconds of scrutinization, he narrowed his beady eyes. "Problem, human?" The Research Scientist crossed his arms, "Nope." The Tellarite snorted and turned back to face the door, "So much the better." Zach, who had been around Starfleet for more years then he liked to remember, actually grinned. "Meaning what?" The Tellarite didn't bother looking back, "Meaning you look like a pile of horse dung and you certainly aren't worth my time." An eyebrow quirked exactly an eighth of an inch over the shades of the much taller scientist. "I'm amazed you can see anything through that skalk-pelt you call fur. Maybe you should shower yourself, that horse dung might very well be attached to your own hide." Shondar, who was by nature a being that reveled in the Art of Debate (or needless arguing) barked, "Hold!" The turbolift obediently came to a halt, leaving the human and Tellarite alone in a quiet car. The Tellarite spent long moments looking at the human, almost as if he was measuring him up in a more thorough way. Finally, he said "Either you know the nuances of Civil Conversation, or you are itching for a Clan War. Either way, I just *HAD* to be put on the same ship as another smart-arsed human with to many muscles and not near enough brains. Why the hell does the twin gods always do this to me?" He finished, looking to the sky, almost as if he was calling out to his gods. Zach, on the other hand, decided to answer him. "Probably because your over-grown pelt is just screaming for a good run through the ringer." he said, almost helpfully. "If I need a good cleaning," Shondar shot back, "Ill go take a mud bath." He pointed one of his hooves/hands at Zach, "And from the smell of things you could use one of those same baths. I doubt you are medical, they tend to take better care of themselves, so I will assume you are Science. I take it this ship has relaxed standards when it comes to bathing and keeping one's self clean?" The Tellarite grunted and began turning back around. "Resume." "Indeed we do," Zach answered with gravity as the turbolift began. "And I think you'll fit right in. Didn't your previous command have standards for grooming, or was your hairy butt get an exemption for shaving? I could loose myself amidst the forest that is Lieutenant Major... Whatever your name is" "You may call me your Better, human." The Tellarite grunted, "Shondar Dorkin, don't be forgetting it." Zach chuckled, "How could I forget something so vile?" he asked philosophically. "Zach Falthgood, Research." The Doors opened, but rather then be quiet, Shondar stepped out. "Alright," he announced to the bridge. "I've just been stuck in an altogether too tight place with an arrogant human who has no sense of humor NOR any sense of hierarchy, where the HELL is the observation lounge?" (reply: any on the bridge, if desired) Zach crossed his arms, "Remind me never to follow you into battle, Marine." he said after a few moments. "If you can't find an observation lounge from across a bridge, you would probably walk backward into a firefight." "Certainly not," Shondar exclaimed as he made his way to the Observation Lounge, "I would be following right behind you, even an invincible Marine needs a shield! Can't go about the important work if I get taken out by the first shots in a fire-fight, after all." Zach's answer was cut short once the doors to the Observation Lounge closed. He filed his answer away for later as both of them took available seats. After a couple minutes of relative looseness, the Captain started with: "If we might get started, I would like to start this meeting by introducing some new members of the crew. First I'd like to introduce our new councilor, Ensign Harrison. Some of you have had an opportunity to know him..." Shondar nearly yawned as Sash proceeded to set his officers straight with promotions and such once everyone had arrived. Once he was done, he spoke up in his loud gravel tone, "You could be introducing me too, Captain, if it wouldn't be too much trouble and all." Zach snorted as he leaned back in his chair, "We can smell you, you don't need to be introduced." The Tellarite turned his head to the science officer, his pleasure at finding someone fluent in Civil Conversation completely buried. "If I wanted a comment from the peanut gallery I would have polled for it." He turned his head back to the Captain, "Well?" (reply: Any) (posted by Trout) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - 1258) Onyx arrived and there was already people there, she sat at her place giving a few smiles wondering what was happening until she saw that Kestra was back on board. Onyx also saw Tagon there, she gave him a head shake but she still wasn't to sure what to make of him yet. She also observed a few faces, and when Wilson came in, she gave him a glance and return her attention her padd briefly before turning her attention to the meeting. Once presentation and promotions came finally business. Onyx didn't know if she would like this considering that it was now Tagon talking and explaining the plan. "Thank you captain," Tagon began. He turned on a holographic star chart displaying the the area of the trawler over the center of the conference table. "As you can see the trawler will be at this location on Stardate 2406.10.06. That gives us four days, maybe less, to get there and prepare to ... acquire the anti-matter." He hit a button and the image turned to a picture of a trawler. "Anti-mater trawlers are large, lumbering ships, that, if taken care of, can do warp 6, with a tail wind. Most trawlers have a small entourage of fighters as protectors. The theory is that a small group of defenders is easier to hide than a large one. The ship itself has strong defensive capabilities, but it is not very maneuverable, and should pose no threat in an actualy fight." Tagon paused for a moment. "To borrow your phrase captain, that's the good news. The bad news is that there's a defiant-class ship running escort for the trawler, the USS Alamo. The CO of the Alamo is one Captain Remy LeBeau, a staunch Doenitz follower." Tagon stopped and stepped back from the table. Sash stood up again. "Thank you Lt. As you can see we have our work cut out for us. We need that anti-matter. it would not be acceptable if we destroyed the cargo, before getting it to the 52nd Fleet. So what we will need is a plan to take over the trawler, once we find it, and to get it back to Spacedock Pheonix, which is still in a secret location. Any questions?" Onyx look at him like.... on which planet did he drop off anyway. Just thay... take over a cargo ship who is escorted by a Defiant class ship. It made her speechless but at least Ensign Slytherwald expressed it. "Captain, if I'm not mistaken, if they don't give us anti-matter we will attack them?" "Sir, we are talking about attack on another Federation ship, and even if we won, we will still suffer some great damage. Attacking heavily fortiffied cargo ship defended by Defiant-class warship is not an easy task!" -explained Tom "Actually, it's down right suicide, they probably have it set up to blow just in case a situation like that happens." (Reply from Sash and anyone) (Posted by Laurence) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - CMO - Ensign (sg) BigWill Kinkaid- 1304) After assisting Lt. (Dr.) Michaella Kirien to her seat, Kinkaid realized that she was a doctor like himself, but felt uneasy about her presence. With her being higher in rank than he, Kinkaid had a notion that part of the staff meeting would be about his removable as CMO to ACMO or worst. The pressure was on his shoulders. Captain Sash began the meeting with a few announcements and then went straight to the meat and potatoes of the gathering. Knowing that the crew has been through a lot since arriving at Starbase Geneva, Sash mentioned a few names in recognition of the hard work and service while aboard the USS Nimitz. When Sash called out Kinkaid's name, Kinkaid could not imagine the disappointment he may have caused his captain and the crew. "I'd like Ensign Kinkaid to come forward." Sash said as he looked out into the group. Kinkaid quickly stood up and proceeded to the head of the conference table where Captain Sash patiently waited for him. Standing at the side of his captain, Kinkaid was posed and rigid as Sash said, "Ensign Kincaid, I recognition of all you have done for the medical welfare of the ship, I hereby promote you to the rank of Lt (jg) and bestow upon you the privileges and responsibilities of your new rank. Congratulations Lt. Kinkaid." He placed the pip on his collar. Kinkaid was unconfused but glad nevertheless. He shook Sash's hand and went back to his seat. He took a moment as the meeting continued on to clear his mind and get back on track with the mission of being ship's doctor. (Reply None) (Posted by Nathan M. Williams) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - COUNS Ensign John Harrison - 1307) "If we might get started," Sash said to quiet the group. He hated getting a late start. It set a bad precedent. "I would like to start this meeting by introducing some new members of the crew. First I'd like to introduce our new councilor, Ensign Harrison. Some of you have had an opportunity to know him..." The door opened and a woman entered. She tried to be as inconspicuous as she could, leaving a PADD on the table by him before sitting down. He heard Kinkaid say something, and Sash looked over at them, silencing them with the look. "As I was saying, some of you have already gotten to know hiim. I'd like the counselor to get to know you all. Counselor, do have anything you'd like to say?" Harrison looked at the watching faces. "Only that I'm looking forward to serving with you all. If you ever need anything, my door is always open, including those of my quarters. Any time, any reason." The Captain continued the meeting. (reply none) (posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - ACMO Dr. Michaella Kirien- 1310) Michaella had been trying very hard to get to her seat when something very large intercepted her. The Captain was talking, and MIchaella realized that either this guy didn't care, or he was completely oblivious to the world. "Greetings, I’m Dr. BigWill Kinkaid. May I be some assistance to you?” MIchaella flushed and shook her head quickly before settling down in the seat. On the other side of the table from her, near the Captain, was a Betazoid female. And over there was John Wilson. She caught his eyes for a moment, and allowed her true anger to show. She could tell that the Betazoid woman, who the Captain introduced as a Troi, was trying hard not to look at her or Wilson. She knew, if no one else did, that there was something going on between Wilson and Kirien. "One of our late comers is our new ACMO, Dr. Michaella Kirien. Although I haven't had a chance to welcome you properly, let me take a moment now to welcome you to Nimitz. Perhaps we can meet briefly after this staff meeting." Michaella inclined her head graciously in acceptance. "Yes, Captain." She said in her very musical voice. "Needless to say, I apologize for being late, Sir." She finished elegantly. She was doing her best not to make the same mistakes that she had made on Geneva. She looked over at Wilson out of the corner of her eye. Everyone else seemed to be doing the same. No one here really trusted him. ::Imzadi, What have you done to make all these people so wary of you ?:: She sent down their bond. (reply Wilson, any) (posted by melinda :-) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 – SFI – Lt.Cmdr John Wilson - 1312) ::Imzadi, What have you done to make all these people so wary of you?:: John paused for a moment to get over the voice in his head again. Not looking her direction he began to think on his response. :: I have done many things Mish, :: John stated in his mind not really focusing on the meeting. Other things were clouding his mind at the moment, the SFI issues and ship issues it was bound to take precedence. (Reply Kirien) : We will have to talk very soon, however in the meantime there are more pressing issues,:: John then began to recite Keats once more in his mind. It was a technique that in most cases blocked any telepathic communication. Or if not it might prove to drown out the voice in his mind. John sat uncomfortably watching the meeting progress and keep the woman out of his mind. John tuned out at the point of promotions it was of no real interest to him. He was going backward down the chain of command instead of forward so there was no real reason for him to pay any attention. As the interesting point came John perked up to listen in. The situation of supplies was a concern of his when the break was announced in what felt like such a long time ago. Geneva had been very much dependant upon trade and supplies and in such a manner was dependant upon the Federation and so was the fleet upon Geneva. After being fully vested in intelligence and his demotion it was deemed his best-suited position would be to remain on the Nimitz as an intelligence tactical aid. Sooner or later blood was going to flow like rivers. Intel was going to prove to be a possible dam against the flow, now he was no longer a senior rank he had one great ability he was expendable. As Sash paused it was Intel’s briefing turn, however John had no desire to actually talk to the intrepid crew of the Nimitz. Events were still fresh in the mind and he was not well liked. Nodding Tagon stood and made his way to the front of the room. The timetable was a very small one 4 days to get into position and manage to take the antimatter under control. Most transport ships held a fighter escort however the Nimitz could easily match them and squat them speedily. However the Defiant escort was the only part of the plan that posed a problem. However having served on a defiant class and commanded one in the past John knew certain weak points that could be exploited. John pursed his lips and spoke. “Captain, with all respect a cargo vessel, fighter squadron and defiant class ship are not about to hand over the keys and allow us a test drive now are they? So how do you propose to rectify this obvious problem? It might only be me but I still have certain problems killing our own,” (Reply Sash) (Reply Kirien, Sash, Any) (Posted By Richard Bowes) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - FO Lt. Commander Kestra Troi - 1320) As Kestra had not been announced as the new First Officer of the Nimitz, she just sat in her seat quietly. She was watching and listening to people as they arrived. She nodded to some that she knew from her previous tour on the Nimitz and said hello to others that greeted her as a new member of the crew. She still could not get over the sheer size of the CEO as he was the biggest crew member she had ever seen other than the Brikar earlier in her career. She also took note of the counselor when he came in and the captain greeted him. She smiled her greeting also and made a mental note to visit with him later. As she had been a counselor for most of her career, she wanted to touch base with him to see what changes had been implemented if any and to offer any help she could give. Dru Tagon was indeed a large person also and with Zzt, room in a turbo lift would be limited. She smiled at the thought of them both in one. Just before Sash started speaking the doors to the room flew open to admit Falthgood and a Tellarite. It had seemed as though they had been in a heated discussion but had stopped when the doors opened which they then sat down. Kestra could feel the frustration from Sash at not being able to start on time, but, finally he started. "If we might get started," Sash said as the group quieted down to listen, "I would like to start this meeting by introducing some new members of the crew. First I'd like to introduce our new councilor, Ensign Harrison. Some of you have had an opportunity to know him..." Kestra had noticed that John Wilson entered and tried to be as invisible as he could and went to a seat far as possible from everyone as he could. She made a mental note that she had to speak to him also. As the Captain was speaking, the door opened and a woman dressed in a medical uniform entered. As John had done she tried to be as inconspicuous. Kestra saw that she had left a PADD on the table by Sash before sitting down. Kestra also noticed that she was a few months pregnant then wondered who the father was. Kestra focused back on what Sash was saying. "As I was saying, some of you have already gotten to know him. I'd like the counselor to get to know you all. Counselor, do have anything you'd like to say?" (reply Harrison) Kestra listened with interest to what Harrison had to say so she could put that in her memory to talk to him about if there was anything that he needed or if there were concerns. Then after Harrison finished Sash continued. "You could be introducing me too, Captain, if it wouldn't be too much trouble and all." Shondar said in his loud gravel tone as he almost yawned. Zach snorted as he leaned back in his chair, "We can smell you, you don't need to be introduced." Shondar turned his head to the science officer, "If I wanted a comment from the peanut gallery I would have polled for it." He then turned his head back to the Captain, "Well?" (Reply Sash) After dealing with the two meeting bashers, Sash continued with what he was going to say. She had to make a note to speak with them both if the captain did not about their attitude in the meetings. She knew it probably would go on deaf ears where the Tellarite was concerned and was not so sure about Falthgood either. "One of our late comers is our new ACMO, Dr. Michaella Kirien. Although I haven't had a chance to welcome you properly, let me take a moment now to welcome you to Nimitz. Perhaps we can meet briefly after this staff meeting." "Yes, Captain." She said in her very musical voice. "Needless to say, I apologize for being late, Sir." She finished elegantly. Kestra liked the way Michaella's voice seemed to ring out like music and thought that maybe they should get to know each other. Kestra could feel something was wrong going on between Wilson and Kirien as she could feel the heated anger coming from Michaella and a little from Wilson. She could not get if Wilson's was because of Michaella or the fact that most people in the room would not make eye contact with him. She just decided that she would also not make eye contact with either of them until later. Sash continued the meeting and answering the various comments made by people still arriving. She knew that Sash was upset with all the interruptions that had been happening and also knew that he would address them more individually later. Kestra's mind had started to wonder a little to memories of past meeting she had been in many years ago when she heard Sash talking about her. "Finally, as you all know, our FO was promoted yesterday, and has gone off to her own ship today. Admiral LoDona has seen it fit to send us a new FO. Many of you already know Lt. Commander Troi. Some of you don't. You will all get the opportunity over the next few days." Kestra then looked around the room nodding once again to everyone in greetings. Sash took a deep breath. "Before we do anything else I need Lt. Commander Troi to stand." Kestra stood as she was told and knew that she was going to be promoted to Commander. It was logical since the 2O was a Lt. Commander as she was and it was unseemly for her to be the same rank. Anyways, she was hoping for the promotion. She had half expected it from Sevant before she left but she had to leave so fast that he maybe did not have confirmation on it from LoDona in time. She looked up into Sash's eyes and knew him to also be her friend and CO, "It is my honor to do something today, that you earned elsewhere. Before this meeting I received a communique from Captain Sevant stating that you left before something could happen, so I get to do it. It is my pleasure to promote you to the rank of Commander." She grinned as Sash pulled out a small box and opened it to show a gold pip. He then replaced her black pip with a gold one then handed her the box. "Congratulations, Commander Troi." he said as she saluted him along with shaking his hand. "I do thank you Captain" She said wanting to keep it formal, "I hope I continue to earn the right to be a commander and your First Officer." She decided that was enough and then sat down so Sash could go on with the meeting as she knew there was a lot to go over. "As you know we have had a restructuring of the command staff recently. With Lt. Commander Wilson, now acting as 2nd officer," Kestra knew this but she could feel that it was the first time Sash had announced it to all the senior crew members. She, as he was doing, looked around the room for the reaction that it brought. "I still feel a need to complete a command staff. So..., Ensign Saleke, please come forward." "Ensign Saleke, you and I have had conversations about the structure of command on this ship, and I here by promote you to the position of 3rd officer. While yo will continue your duties as CSO, you will also receive command training. Also, I here by promote you to the rank of Lt. (jg) and bestow upon you all of the privileges and responsibilities of your new rank." He pulled out another small box and place a gold pip on Saleke's collar. "Congratulations Lt. Saleke." (reply Saleke) Then there was the promotion of Ensign Kincaid to Lieutenant Junior grade and she had thought that was well worth it. Kincaid had proved himself a valuable asset to the crew as she had read his reports before the meeting. She watched as Sash placed the pip on Kincaid's collar. When Sash was finished, the crew clapped their acceptance. (reply Kinkaid) As Kinkaid sat down Sash looked out across his crew. "I do have two more announcement before I get onto the mission briefing. First, as you all probably have noticed, Lt. Tagon has agreed to rejoin Starfleet, and join our crew as part of our security department. I believe with him and with Lt. Zzt, that we now have the largest crew in the fleet. I can't wait for the annual tug of war contest at the picnic." Kestra smiled at the levity Sash had put into his little speech to the group. She could feel that most had not gotten his humor and there was still a couple holding onto their anger. She would not look at them at this moment. She did not want to give them credence. "Also, since the loss of Ensign Tannasg, we are working without an OPS officer. So I may be asking some of you to pull some duty time at the OPS station." At this announcement she looked over at the only Cairn onboard, which had been doing the duty as CONN and thought that he could be promoted to acting OPS for the time being. "Sir, I think that we should think on the possibility of promoting our CONN to the position of Acting OPS as he is already there basically." Kestra offered and waited for Sash to decide on it. (reply from all mentioned, Sash, any) (Pb Frank Rogers) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - CO Captain Devan Sash- 1330) Sash gave the crew a few minutes to settle down after the promotions. He had noticed that Falthgood had arrived with a Tellerite marine in tow. This must have been the new MCO that was replacing Lee. Lee had been requested by Nessa to go with her to the Mystique. How could Sash refuse her. Lee would be a source of familiarity for Nessa and for Jennah. Sash motioned for them to join him. "Gentlemen," he nodded to Dorkin, "Major Dorkin, welcome to the Nimitz. If you don't mind I'll dispense with the pleasantries, and get straight to the mission briefing. Perhaps we can meet up later and discuss our situation." (reply Dorkin) He watched as they sat down and cleared his throat. "Okay people, let's get down to it." When everyone resettled down, he stood and began to speak. "After the the fleet captain's meeting Nimitz had been given a task. It is not an easy task, so it's important that we all know what's at stake. Things have not been going well for us in this war. We have some support, but not an overwhelming amount. The truth is, that we are dangerously low on certain supplies. Things that we are not yet capable of producing. One of those items is anti-mater. Our production of anti-mater will not meet our need for at least another year." "That's the bad news. The worse news is that we need to get some, soon, or the fleet may be dead in it's tracks. Sooooo..." he looked out amidst his staff, "it comes to us to obtain the precious anti-mater, one way or another. And yes, that means taking from somebody that has a supply that is plentiful. And yes, again, I am talking of Admiral Doentiz." Sash could see a little glint in the eyes of some of the crew. He too had to smile. "It appears that we will be asking the enemy to fuel us. It has come to our attention that an anti-matter trawler will be traveling close to the subspace river within the next few days. This would supply us with enough anti-matter for several months. Mt Tagon has some more details." Tagon looked over at Wilson who simply nodded. It was discussed that for right now it was best that Tagon talk to the crew. He seemed to have their trust more than Wilson. Tagon walked to the front of the room, his footsteps hitting the deck plating hard. "Thank you captain," Tagon began. He turned on a holographic star chart displaying the the area of the trawler over the center of the conference table. "As you can see the trawler will be at this location on Stardate 2406.10.06. That gives us four days, maybe less, to get there and prepare to ... acquire the anti-matter." He hit a button and the image turned to a picture of a trawler. "Anti-mater trawlers are large, lumbering ships, that, if taken care of, can do warp 6, with a tail wind. Most trawlers have a small entourage of fighters as protectors. The theory is that a small group of defenders is easier to hide than a large one. The ship itself has strong defensive capabilities, but it is not very maneuverable, and should pose no threat in an actualy fight." Tagon paused for a moment. "To borrow your phrase captain, that's the good news. The bad news is that there's a defiant-class ship running escort for the trawler, the USS Alamo. The CO of the Alamo is one Captain Remy LeBeau, a staunch Doenitz follower." Tagon stopped and stepped back from the table. Sash stood up again. "Thank you Lt. As you can see we have our work cut out for us. We need that anti-matter. it would not be acceptable if we destroyed the cargo, before getting it to the 52nd Fleet. So what we will need is a plan to take over the trawler, once we find it, and to get it back to Spacedock Pheonix, which is still in a secret location. Any questions?" (reply anyone) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - CO - Captain Sash - 1338) "Captain, if I'm not mistaken, if they don't give us anti-matter we will attack them?" "Sir, we are talking about attack on another Federation ship, and even if we won, we will still suffer some great damage. Attacking heavily fortified cargo ship defended by Defiant-class warship is not an easy task!" "Well then Ensign," Sash looked at Slytherwald, his eyes narrowed slightly, "it's a good thing we have a well trained Tactical Officer to help us through this problem. We didn't come out here for our safety boys and girls. We're out here to fight a war." Then Wilson gave his opinion. "Captain, with all respect a cargo vessel, fighter squadron and defiant class ship are not about to hand over the keys and allow us a test drive now are they? So how do you propose to rectify this obvious problem? It might only be me but I still have certain problems killing our own." Sash nodded. "I can understand that sentiment Lt. Commander, and believe me when I say I hope that it doesn't come to that. However, a line has been drawn in the sand and we are about to cross it. If you have a problem with this fight then let me know now, and I'll find a convenient spot to drop you off." Then he turned to the rest of the crew. "That goes for everyone. This is it. In for a penny, in for a pound, as Captain Remmick used to say. Let's not beat around the bush here folks. I am about to take us into harms way. If you do not believe in our cause then I don't want you on my ship. Those kinds of feelings lead to hesitations, and hesitations lead to deaths. Our deaths. So ask yourself this question. Who would you rather see dead, them or us?" He paused for any further comments. (reply any if you want) "Very well then," Sash continued. "We will be setting a course for the subspace river immediately. Mr Wilson, since we are temporarily at a loss for an Ops Officer, I want you to cover that station. You can take your first watch tomorrow." (reply Wilson) Sash turned to Tagon and Slytherwald. "Security, I want things tightened up. you will cordinate with Major Dorkin here for marine support. And Ensign Slytherwald, since you are so concerned I would like you to investigate a way to take over the trawler with the least amount of fighting." "Major Dorkin," he turned to the Tellerite. "I want your marines ready for boarding party. You have some shoes to fill after Lt. Lee." (reply Dorkin, Tagon and Slytherwald)His next task was to science department. "Lt Saleke, I need you to see what you can do with the sensors. I'd like to squeeze a little more long range definition out of them." (reply Saleke) "Dr.s," turned to Kinkaid and his new ACMO, "I want sickbay ready for any emergency. I predict that if you get wounded they'll be coming in large quantities. Be sure your people are up to it Lt." (reply Kinkaid) "Dr. Kiernan, I'd like to see you directly after the meeting." (reply Kiernan) "Engineering," Sash looked at Zzt and O'Neill. "Mr. O'Neill I'm leaving main engineering in your capable hands. I want you to make sure that our engines are at full capacity and our shields are at full strenght." (reply O'Neill) "Commander Troi," Sash finally turned to his FO, "I want you to prepare an away team. When, and I mean when, we take over this trawler, I will need someone to captain it back to spacedock. Put together the team that you feel would best work for you." (reply Troi) "have I missed anyone? I don't think so. Very well people, this is it. We are about to officially cross the line into an act of war. This is what the last months have been all about. Stick to your pinciples and remember what's at stake. We need that fuel. Dismissed." (reply all) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - FO - Commander Kestra Troi - 1340) Kestra sat there listening to the anger and frustration that some had over having to attack one of their own. She could understand why they felt as they did, but, she also knew that it was out of necessity not out of hatred. She knew that none in command in the 52nd wanted to attack any of starfleets own, but, Doenitz had drawn the line. Each person knew they were on a warship and that it could go to battle at any time against any number of foes. They also had been given the chance to return to the other starfleet if they wanted and now Sash was giving them one last time to leave if anyone so desired. "Commander Troi," Sash finally turned to his FO, "I want you to prepare an away team. When, and I mean when, we take over this trawler, I will need someone to captain it back to spacedock. Put together the team that you feel would best work for you." This assignment felt as if she was getting ready to go over to the Gulian ship that the cardassians had a long time ago. She did not go that time because she had to take over as Acting Captain and she directed the battle from there. There had been a lot of casualties at that time but they also had not been trying not to take the ship over with as little casualties as possible. She wondered if it was at all possible to commandeer the trawler without a lot of casualties, she really hoped they could. "Aye sir I will compile it shortly and then discuss it with you." She said as she started thinking of the ones she wanted. Lt. Saleke was on top of her list as the third officer he probably needed some experience and this would give it. "have I missed anyone? I don't think so. Very well people, this is it. We are about to officially cross the line into an act of war. This is what the last months have been all about. Stick to your principles and remember what's at stake. We need that fuel. Dismissed." (reply any) (Pb Frank rogers) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - TAC\ASC Ensign JG Tom Slytherwald - 1342) Tom listened how Captain and Tagon where talking about acquiring anti-matter. "Captain, if I'm not mistaken, if they don't give us anti-matter we will attack them?" "Sir, we are talking about attack on another Federation ship, and even if we won, we will still suffer some great damage. Attacking heavily fortiffied cargo ship defended by Defiant-class warship is not an easy task!" -explained Tom Tom was suprised by that plan, he thougth it is a suicide run (reply anyone) (posted by Edward) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Deck 2 FO Office - FO Commander Kestra Troi - 1500) Kestra had been in her office for some time and decided to take a break from what she was reading. "Commander Troi to Commander Wilson, Please come to my office if you have the time. I want to talk to you for a few." She sent after she tapped her consol communications. She cut the connection after John had replied that he would be arriving soon and waited for him to arrive. He walked into her office as she never had the door where members of the crew could not enter. "Commander come in please and have a seat. Thanks for coming so quickly, I know your time is valuable." She said as she waited for him to take a seat. "Commander Wilson, as you know I am new and not new here on the Nimitz. I was an ensign(jg) straight out of the academy when I first came aboard. From that point I went to become the Captain of this ship for a brief period before resigning my commission and going off to help tyake care of a friend. You might have heard of him, Admiral Aragorn. He had a disease that made him have to return to Vega, his home planet. Well he was finally cure and returned to work some on Geneva." Kestra stopped for a moment when she remembered that Wilson had been the FO of Geneva at one time so he had to have remembered Aragorn. "Anyway, I digress sometimes, I am sorry. I wanted you here to talk with you about yourself and the real reason you are here on the Nimitz as SFI. I also want to know if I can count on and trust you while you are on the Nimitz. Remember, I am a Betazoid and I have been counselor for a very long time. I can tell if someone is not telling me the truth. Everything you say will be held in the strictest of confidence except for the captain of course." "Commander, I have already had numerous arguments with your predecessor and I do not intend on carrying the tradition. My original mission was to draw out any possible hostiles that might attack Commodore J Blackford. Unfortunately the Nimitz was used as a puppet to this end," John stated shifting in his seat. "The Captain has already inflicted his 30 lashes. I know my position is an uncomfortable one at the moment," Pausing he spoke again. "Ma'am" Kestra could understand Wilson's position on getting tired of constantly having to enumerate on what his mission was or is. She sat there for a minute behind her desk then decided that the posture she was setting was not good for a real communication between them. She stood up and walked to the couch, then motioned for him to set with her. After he came over to sit with her she started again. "May I call you John when we are alone? You may call me Kestra in a setting like this, if it feels better for you." She waited for his acknowledgment of what she was trying to do. John was took back for a minute as the FO dropped the standard formality. "A time for new beginnings Kestra," John stated smiling. "Yes, John a time for new beginnings." She paused looking at him and found him to be an attractive man, but, at this point she redirected her mind to what they were talking about. "Ok, now, John you have somewhat answered my first question and I will leave it at that. I do want you to know I am not my predecessor. I am somewhat different from her, not saying that Captain Vanyssa was not a good person or anything like that. I do things and view things sometimes different from her." She was not trying to downgrade Vanyssa just trying to inform him that most times, people that have been counselors tend to be a bit different in the same circumstance. "Now, what I really wanted to know is can I feel safe around you and can I trust you not to harm the Nimitz or the crew." "Harming the crew is not in the mandate," John stated pausing for a moment to search his memory. "Unless its necessary, in rare extreme cases," John stated grinning. Kestra was not sure she liked his answer, but, it did seem to be true about SFI agents. She was not sure what to ask him from that answer and thought for a moment. "Ok, so harming the crew has not been ordered" Then added, "as of yet." She watched his reaction to what she said to see what they would be and found him to be a competent SFI agent as he revealed little. "Care for something to drink, John?" she asked as she stood up to walk over to the replicator. John smiled, "Coffee black please Kestra, so you looking forward to serving on the Nimitz again?" Kestra retrieved her coco and John's coffee then turned around to make her way back to the couch. She bent over to put both on the table then sat down. She took her coco back up to take a sip before returning it to the table. She then looked up at John to answer him, "I don't think that I joined Starfleet to anything else really. No matter where I am reassigned, I am still thinking of the nimitz in everything I do. So, to answer your question, Yes I do look forward to serving on the Nimitz yet once again and as her FO." "So Commander, did you have any further questions for me Ma'am," John asked "Yes Commander, what is this between you and Lt. Kirien?" She asked knowing that it came out of left field. "Kirien, is the mother of two of my children we were involved many years ago and then she reappeared recently before my transfer to the Nimitz. She is my fiance officially speaking, however my new station as SFI chief puts that in danger Kestra to be honest," "I can understand the strain a duty position can put on a relationship. When I had become Captain way back, my husband had just gotten orders that would take him on the other side of the quadrant and he was going to take one of my daughters with him. We were not sure what it would do to our marriage, but, we had agreed before hand that we would not let our careers suffer from our marriage. You need to take care of this with her as we don't need the both of you to be going around the ship in a state of anger." She replied as she really did know what it was like and she felt for the both of them. "I don't get angry Kestra, i'm too relaxed. I do believe that due to my precarious position it would be wise for me to cut ties. As you are probably aware i have already made several enemies on this ship and my SFI position is a difficult one," John stated pausing. "I feel for safety of us all personal connections should not be encouraged." "I understand Commander, if you didn't know it my husband Sky was part of SFI when he was killed." She paused a feeling ran through her at the mention of his name which she had not spoken since her breakdown. "So, I think you had better take care of this as soon as you can. Don't leave her out there hanging." She wanted to finish this as it was his concern until it interfered with his duties. "Ok, now since you are the Second Officer, you are under me. With the Captain as busy as he is, I want you to come to me first with any you have. If we decide then that the captain needs to be involved we will but until then I want you to bring me everything first." She said as she wanted to change the subject. "Not to begin by enraging you but all SFI information will go direct to CO you are not at a rank to allow for immediate information. Certain sensitive materials will not be made available to you. As for Second officer position it is more a title to cover the ships operations. SFI is my primary concern," John stated making his objections clear. "I can understand that, all SFI information will go to the Captain and he will inform me of what he declares that I should know." She was not actually happy about being left out of the loop but she could live with that for the moment. "As for your status as Second Officer as just a cover, I am not of that opinion and when you have something that would fall under that jurisdiction it will be brought to me. You are the Second Officer and I will expect you acting as such until such time as SfI duties takes precedence. Are we in agreement?" She looked at him with a look that meant no alternatives accepted. "John" she started taking a softer tone, "We are on this ship together and I would rather work together in harmony not hatred. I would rather the both of us not giving the captain any headaches as to our working together. He is expecting us to work as a team and I hope we can." She finished hoping it would also soften his reply. John paused for a moment and pondered his response. "But of course Commander Troi," John stated bowing his head to the side a little. Kestra smiled at his response knowing that even though he acquiesced, he would still basically do as he pleased or thought would be in accord with what she asked. But, it was a start. "Ok John, is there anything you want to bring up with me while we are here?" She asked hoping he would feel free to talk to her. "Nothing that i can think on at the present moment in time Kestra," John replied "Ok John, remember to come anytime you have anything. I am always open for you. It was nice having a chat with you and I would like to do this every once in a while." Kestra was sincerely glad that she had this talk with him but knew that they would butt head more than not. She got up, "Well again it has been a pleasure John to talk with you." She offered her hand to him. John shook her hand and then turned and walked out of the office onto the deck once more to resume his duties. Kestra watched as John turned and walked out of the room. She wondered if anything she said to him would settle with him. She then walked back to her desk and started back to work. As she sat down Michaella came back to mind and thought that maybe she should get her part with her done. "Commander to Dr. Kirien could you please report to my office." Kestra said as she tapped her communications again. (reply from Kirien, any) (Pb Frank and Richard) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Deck 2 FO Office - FO Commander Kestra Troi/Dr. Kirien - 1530) After a very stressful meeting, in which she had saw John, he'd vanished again on her. Michaella had met with the Captain, which had gone well. Then...then she had gone back to her Quarters, trying to reassure her daughters that their father wasn't being the bastard that he was being, and that he did, indeed, still love them, something that Michaella was doubting herself. She'd just finished unpacking her scant belongings when she was called to the FO's office, something that Michaella had known was going to come. She sighed and headed over there, ringing the chime. "Dr. Michaella Kirien, reporting as ordered, Commander." She said, feeling very very tired. This pregnancy had taken a lot out of her. Kestra looked up as Kirien had entered her office and watched as Kirien reported to her as she had ordered. Kirien looked like the pregnancy was taking its toll on her and Kestra could remember when she was carrying the twins. Kestra stood up from behind her desk and motioned for Michaella to sit down on the couch. "Thank you Doctor for coming so soon. I really wanted to get to know you and how you were doing. I had noticed that you were pregnant and I remembered not to long ago I was also." Kestra was still standing and it was unseemly for her to be talking down to Michaella so she decided to make the best of it. "Would you like something to drink before we get started?" Michaella shook her head briefly, then got a very wistful expression on her face. "Cranberry juice." She said, then laughed. "The bizarre cravings that one has while pregnant..." She left off the fact that she wanted dill pickles and braeburn apples from the list. "I remember very well the cravings I had." Kestra said as she laughed while heading to get the Cranberry juice and she decided that Ice tea would be good for her. Kestra walked back to the couch and handed Michaella what she wanted before sitting down herself. "Yes, I'm about seven months pregnant." She said, frowning, hating John at the moment. "But you already knew that. I assume that you are here to chastise me about my record on Geneva, and to tell me to not repeat it again ?" She said, arching one eyebrow elegantly. "Well you already know that so we will skip that" Kestra said with a smile and continued, "I really wanted to get to know you before we got into what I expect from you, if I may. I know that you are probably very tired, so, we will try to keep this short as to get you back to your quarters." Kestra knew that anything at this stage of her pregnancy got her tired quickly. "I noticed that you already have two wonderful girls, Please tell me about them, are they telepathic as you are?" "Their names are Gabriella and Elizabeth. Ella is most like me, intelligent, keenly interested in science, she even looks the most like me. Beth, on the other hand, is impulsive, and tends to lead her sister into doing things that she shouldn't. She loves flying, and is the one that is hurt worse by John's....betrayal." Michaella had a hard time choking that word out. "Both are telepathic with me, and with other Betazoids. Oddly enough, Beth is more empathic than Ella." Michaella sighed. "Part of the reason I petitioned LoDona to be transferred was that there is a qualified teacher aboard, both to deal with the girl's telepathic abilities, but also.... their other interests." Michaella finished Kestra could feel the hurt and anger in Michaella when she mentioned betrayal from John. She also knew which John she was talking about. He had mentioned some of the trouble between Michaella and himself. Kestra knew that she could not get in the middle of their personal problems but wanted to help in some way. "If you want I can ask the Counselor to have a talk with the girls and try to help them through this." Kestra offered knowing that the counselor would probably be happy to help. "I do suggest though that you and Commander Wilson have to talk this out. It must be settled for the girls and yourself to begin to heal. With Commander Wilson being in SFI all there is for you is more pain and I don't think that you want that for your children. But, it is your life and I can't order you in that aspect." Kestra could only suggest a course of action but could not force any on Michaella as it had not effected her work yet. "My late husband, Sky, was killed in the line of duty while he was in SFI." She thought about Sky and wondered where he was, what he had been doing when he was killed. She also wondered if it was agents of Doenitz that had killed him. The one thing that she hated was that she probably would never know. "Was it the betrayal that had you upset in the meeting? I could feel that there was some strong feelings going between you two and they were not love vibes." Kestra asked knowing what they were. Michaella shook her head. "It's only part of it. I had a hard time on Geneva, after he left, and I found out that I was pregnant. I called and called for him, and he didn't come, didn't send a communication, nothing. He just cut us off from him." She sighed. "I don't do pregnancy well, especially the beginning of it, and I almost lost the baby. Twice." "I understand, but, I have to ask. Will his being here, even though he was the reason you came here, effect you being able to perform your duties?" Kestra had to finally ask. Michaella sighed again. "It shouldn't. I won't be anywhere near him. What will, is the pregnancy. I can't work long shifts, or be on my feet for long periods of time. But all of that is part of the usual Starfleet Maternity Policy. I'll do the best I can, Commander. It's all I can do. As for John... Maybe we should all talk with the Counselor." She took a deep breath. "After all, he can't be worse than the Counselor's on Geneva. Either of them." The experiences on Geneva took a large toll on Michaella, and her abilities to handle emotions. "It wasn't a good tour of duty on Geneva." She whispered, looking away, tears coming to her eyes. Everything while pregnant was always emotional. Kestra listened to Michaella with concern growing and could see that this conversation was taking a toll on her. She needed to get this done for now and let her return to her quarters so she could rest. "Doctor, I think you need to go back to your quarters and rest. We can continue later, maybe next time I will come to you in your quarters where you could be more comfortable." Kestra then stood up to move around the table and be ready to help Michaella up if she needed it. "One other thing, try and give the counselor a try then if the situation is still not satisfactory, remember, I was once a counselor myself." "That sounds like sage advice." Michaella said, struggling to get up out of the chair. "When I wake up, I will see about speaking with the Counselor." She realized that this was most likely a dismissal. "If I may be excused, Sir ?" "Yes you may and take care of yourself. If you need to talk to me, do so anytime." Kestra told Michaella as she helped her up to leave. After Michaella left Kestra went back to her desk to read more reports. There were things that had happened after she left that she had to get up to speed on quickly. She also had to figure out what to do about Commander Wilson and Dr. Kirien. She would have to have a talk with Sash about the problems that those two were having. Unless they were able to come to some terms with each other. She really hoped that they could so each would have a peace of mind and the children would not be torn apart. (reply none) (Pb Frank and Melinda) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz – SFI Office – SFI/2O – Lt.Cmdr John Wilson – 15:40) John paced the office; the Nimitz’s current mission was not sitting well at all. The prospect of killing up to 80 crew that the defiant class could house was an uncomfortable idea. However his sorrow over this prospect possibly meant that his soul was still in tact. Moving over to the centre table in the office he activated the holographic display. The records of the USS Alamo appeared, John glanced at the 3D representation of the ship and smiled. It reminded his of the Mirthandir that he had commanded in battle many times. As it was remarked many years ago the defiant class were ‘a tough little ship’ however after serving on one you discovered quickly that even the toughest defaceable vessel has a weak point an Achilles heel. However not all the Achilles heels were located in the same place. It was a matter of discovering this ships weak point. John paused for a moment and looked at the exterior of the ship, raising his hand he ran it across his face and contemplated the problem. The Defiant class held pulse phaser’s that could inflect significant damage on even a sovereign class. Quantum torpedoes, ablative armour, standard phaser banks and if they were running escort Proberly marines and extra security on board. Not exactly a target that would give up easily, in a head to head battle the Defiant should be beaten with minor to moderate damage on the larger more advanced Sovereign. However the primary problem lay in the fighters and the heavy weapons on the transport vessel. It was not exactly a fair fight one ship against 2 and Proberly a wing of fighters up to an entire squadron. The fighters that were common in usage by the federation were tough little things. Fighters had proved their worth in the Dominion wars and since then there had been an increase in usage and technological advancement. The squadrons in existent now were in most case 3rd generation pilots and thus used to battle and been raised for this purpose. Not the type of people to give up easily. In his early years John had watched a fighter squadron whom were loosing a conflict crash into the enemy to ensure that the enemy did not succeed or at least survive. The sheer determination and refusal to surrender was a dangerous card in any game. “TAGON!” John yelled. “Tagon, Tagon!” John yelled once more. (Reply Tagon) “I want you to start pulling the crew manifest for the transport vessel and fighter escort. Find me weak chains in the link that might sympathise and turn in the tide of battle!” John commanded, his passion for the job began to flow through his veins once more. It was finally good to have a distinction between the good and the bad. (Reply Tagon) “Captain LeBeau, I have some personal experience with,” John stated grinning. “He was at the academy the same year as me. LeBeau was always determined and never gave up; he had to be the best at everything. He was a stickler for authority however he had several problems. His determination to be the best was followed by his refusal to settle for anything less than the best. This was followed by a massive ego, and I love manipulating people with big egos. He still has not forgiven me for an incident at the academy, I managed to destroy his base and kill 90% of his forces with 50% less men. All because I used his nature against him, that resulted in him finishing second in the class and myself 1st. So as you can Proberly guess he doesn’t like me much? Added into that he is fanatical about our resident evil admiral,” John stated grinning. (Reply Tagon) “What I plan on doing is brining in Marines, Tactical department and Science to come up with some more options for Captain Sash. But Ill be dammed if the marines are to have all the fun!” (Reply Tagon, Any) (Posted By Richard) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Deck 2 FO Office - FO Commander Kestra Troi/CSO Lt(jg) Saleke - 1630) Kestra got up to replicate some more hot coco when she felt that she needed to talk to the Third Officer like she had with Commander Wilson. He had just been promoted and thrust into the position, she dd not now if he had any idea of what being 3O meant. Picking up her hot coco, she returned to here desk to hit her communications button on it. "Commander Troi to Lt. Saleke, would you be so kind as to report to my office. Thanks." She then sat back waiting for Saleke to report to her and think on what she wanted to talk about. Saleke rang the chime then entered at the summons, stepping inside her office he inclined his head respectfully to the new FO then said. "Good day Commander, I have come at your orders." Kestra was taken back as she watched Saleke enter the room. He reminded her very much of a crew member that she had worked with long ago when she was just an Ensign, Surin cha'Evekh also a Vulcan. She had not noticed it in the meeting earlier in the day, but, the striking similarities were astounding. Shaking herself back to the present, she realized that she had kept him standing. Standing up and walking around her desk, she presented her hand to him. "Thanks Lt. Saleke and I want to also again congratulate you on your promotion in rank and position aboard. Captain Sash must have seen and acknowledged the hard work you have been doing." Kestra said trying to set him at ease, then she remembered it was hard to catch a Vulcan off ease. "Please have a seat" She said as she gestured to the couch. Knowing that her couch had been used a lot today she smiled, "Lt. Would you like something to drink?" She asked as she still stood. Looking around Saleke noticed that Commander Troi had not yet had time to set up her office completely which was understandable considering she had just arrived today. The Commander herself would be considered quite beautiful by human standards but of course but to him beauty was merely an affectation for the emotional; those who had no control of their natural impulses. Neither was he here to consider her qualifications or her office. He hesitated only an instant at her offered hand, he had shaken the hands of humans and other beings before but not a Betazoid, he wondered as he set his mental defenses if they would be enough. The handshake was short and her control was excellent, he hardly even noticed her mental presence. "Thank you Commander Troi for your regards, I found orange juice with pulp to be to my taste when serving at the Academy." Saleke considered the couch for an instant. It was well known that those with a Counselor's background preferred to relax those to whom they talked in such a manner however it was not at necessary with him but considering that the couch was the only seating option and he did not want to appear rude he nodded his acknowledgment and sat down. Kestra walked over to the replicator, "Two cubes ice tea, mid sweet and Orange juice with pulp." She ordered and as they appeared on the tray she picked them up. She turned around to head back to the couch when a thought crossed her mind, ~does he think that since I am Betazoid that I automatically scan those that I meet?~ She handed the Orange juice over and sat down across from him. "When I first started my career in starfleet, I made the mistake of reading someone and then making a comment about it. Admiral Woldan at the time scolded me severely and I thought my career would end that day before it ever gotten off the ground. Ever since then, I make sure that when I meet someone, that I keep my mind to myself. That lesson has served me well all through my career so far." Kestra hoped that Saleke would ascertain her meaning. "Lt. I have actually read your file before you arrived and I found that your having studied alien customs and languages very fascinating. I have, over the years, studied the emotional aspects of languages. As I have always done, I love to listen to other languages and how inflection is used in different phrases and words. In so doing I have become somewhat of a Linguist. What aspects of alien languages catches your attention?" Kestra knew that her line of talking had probably caught the Lt. off guard and if it had, he wasn't showing it. Saleke nodded at the FO and said in response. "I beg your pardon Commander but many do not understand a Vulcan's view of the human custom of handshaking. The touching of hands among Vulcans is used almost exclusively in intimate embraces between a male and female and is a conduit for the joining of minds, many of my people therefore refuse to do so. I, however who am a student of other races adhere somewhat to other customs, it seems to set them at ease as you would say. Humans seem to hold the gesture in high regard. Also you must understand that those who have no or little mental control during such contact would tend to ... intrude upon my mind without meaning to. I apologize if I have offended you. As far as languages I am intrigued by the roots of the languages and how they connect and intertwine themselves over time forming offshoots and new languages. I also find literature itself to be a fascinating study." After speaking the Vulcan took a sip of the orange juice as he waited for the counselor's reply. "Of course I understand the reasoning behind Vulcans not wanting to participate in handshaking and I had misplaced that knowledge as Surin had enlightened me so many years ago. So, Please do not think that you offended me. I am a little hard in that way to offend and it is I that should be begging your pardon, I should have remembered. But, as we can sit here a long time discussing this issue, we will continue." Kestra smiled and took a sip of her tea before she decided to move forward in the conversation. "I too find alien literature fascinating. Tell me Lt. about what you expect being a third officer consists of?" Saleke had not expected that question but found it extremely appropriate. "As I see it Commander the duties of a Third Officer are to support the command crew in whatever way is necessary, whether it is manning a watch or administrative duties. The Captain and I have had discussions on the issue of command as he mentioned at the meeting today though he gave no specifics as regarding the question you have asked." "Ok, so, you do have some knowledge after talking with the Captain. Have you been through the command school at the academy?" She was wondering if she would have to take him through the different testing or if he had already had the required training. "My Academy training, Commander Troi, was in Science and Tactical. I had no training in the Command line." Saleke set the glass of juice on a small table to the side then turned toward the commander again. She thought that she had not seen any training in the command area, so, before she could let him take control of the bridge she would have to make sure that he passed the bridge command test. She would also have to inform Sash that Saleke was not fully command qualified. "Ok, Well, Lt. We are going to have spend time together as I have to ensure you pass the bridge command training before you can assume duties there. What I will do, is sit with you on your turn on the bridge and train you besides going with you to the holodeck to test you in the various aspects. You can replicate the required reading material from your quarters replicator." She got up and walked over to her command console to input the orders giving him authorization. After doing so, she returned and sat down. "Since you are Third Officer, as with the Second Officer, you report to me. Anything that happens that would fall under the aspects of third officer you bring to me. The Captain is a busy person with the running of the ship and so being, we will try to handle things before it has to come before him. Any questions so far, Lt.?" She knew that she was imparting a lot of information. Saleke shook his head crisply. "No questions Commander, it is all very logical and very thorough, my compliments." Saleke was impressed both with the FO's crisp businesslike manner and her knowledge of the handling of Command affairs. ~ Kestra Troi it appears will be an excellent asset to the ship as well as appearing to be a good trainer to be tutored under. ~ The Vulcan was considering himself extremely fortunate at the moment and was looking forward to the challenge of the command training. "Good, also, in this training you will be required to spend sufficient amount of time in each department to become familiar with what they do and how they do it. It will be part of the final test to become command qualified. I have faith in you Lt. And I look forward to helping you throughout your training. If at any time you have any questions please do not hesitate to come to me." She really was looking forward to training him as she thought he would be a tremendous asset to the command staff of the Nimitz and one day to the Fleet as a Captain. "OK Lt. If there is nothing else and as it is off duty time for you, I will let you retire to think about what we have said here. Like I said you can replicate all the required reading materials as I have authorized you to do so. We will start your training in the morning as events transpires." She knew that he had a lot to do and being the CSO also, he had not much time to do his studying. "Very well Commander," Saleke said as he stood up, he turned and picked up the glass and took it to the disposal. "Thank you for your time Commander, I am looking forward to training under you and since I have not done it before I also congratulate you on your promotion and your posting on the Nimitz. I believe we will work well together." Having said that he bowed and took his leave. As Kestra watched Saleke leave, she could not help but admire him and his way of looking at things. She moved over to her desk once more thinking that she could do a few more things before retiring but she was tired. (reply from no one) (Pb Frank and Charles) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Deck 2 FO Office - FO Commander Kestra Troi - 1700) Kestra had been up very early even before arriving on the Nimitz and it had been not only an emotional day but a busy one. She had attended the meeting where she was promoted to Commander and introduced to the senior crew members. Some she had known from the time before she had been reassigned to the Boudicca and others were new. She had gotten to meet Commander Wilson, their 2O/SFI Officer, whom seemed to be head strong and thought that he did not have to report to her. Kestra thought that maybe they had come to some understanding, but, she was not totally sure. Then she had a meeting with Dr. Kirien, Commander Wilson's Fiancee or at least for now. Those two had issues that needed to be addressed soon or they could affect the crew and that she did not want to happen. After that, she met with Lt. Saleke, whom reminded her of Surin, a vulcan from her past. He seemed to be just like Surin and that was comforting. During their talk she had found out that he needed to complete command training as he did not complete it back at the academy. She had given him orders to start studying the required books as she had authorized him to replicate. Over all, even though it had been a long day, it had been a fruitful one. Now it was time for her to find out where her quarters was. She knew that she needed to talk with Sash about what she had found out in her meetings today, but, did not know if he was going to be free. She decided that she would send him a message. "Computer take a priority message for Captain Sash" [recording] "Captain I need to talk to you about the meetings I have had today and what was discovered. If you can, please meet me at my quarters around 1900 hours. I still have to find them and unpack a few things. Kestra." "Computer send message" [message sent] Kestra sat back in her chair for a few minutes then started shutting things down so she could head for her quarters. (reply from Sash, any) (Pb Frank) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Counselling Department - COUNS, Ensign John Harrison - 18:30) His first day had been fairly quiet. He'd spent most of the day, familiarising himself with the command staff profiles, and considering the mission ahead. For his first starfleet assignment, this certainly seemed to be an eventful one. He checked his watch. Almost time to meet Saleke. he tidied away the PADDs and turned off his computer. Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Personal quarters - LT. Saleke, CSO - 18:35) Saleke was meditating in his quarters on the events that had transpired, sitting at the desk in his room with his fingers steepled before him. Many things had happened at the meeting today that had been unexpected not limited to the arrival of several new persons on board to complement the existing crew. The fact that the new Marine CO was a Tellerite promised to "Spice up" life on the Nimitz as some would say and might even prove to be a distraction however the Vulcan was not one to prejudge another and was interested in examing his interaction with the crew, from what he knew it was highly illogical that they were able to interact with humans considering their definition of "Civil" was often quite the opposite of most races. Humans however had proved to be adaptable to almost any condition. Also the movement of XO Wilson into a permanent position on the Nimitz was an interesting move, Saleke wondered what it might portend. He thought a moment longer and said. "Computer activate." The computer rose from the desk with a muted hum. "Lt. Saleke personal log Stardate 2406.10.02." He stopped there and lingered at that point, his own promotion of course was the biggest surprise as it had been completely unexpected, especially since when he came on board there had been little command crew to speak of except the Captain and First Officer Winters whom he had not had a chance to become very familiar with, her duties and child kept her very busy and the rest of her time seemed to be spent in the Captain's company. Now however the Captain had chosen a complete command crew and he was a part of it. Since his graduation from the Academy, Starfleet had been quite different from his expectations; he had never considered that he would climb so far so quickly. To leave the Academy to the CSO's post and then move so quickly into command seemed illogical at best however the Captain must have had a good reason to trigger the move therefore the Vulcan would do his best to make sure Sash's confidence in him was well placed. [Discontinue log?] He looked at the computer and answered. "Continue." "The meeting today proved to be very eventful and my promotion takes effect immediately. I sense that the mission that Captain Sash mentioned today will be a true test of this officer corps and command crew and intend on making sure my duties are performed at a level on a par with the expectations that Starfleet has in its members." The Vulcan noticed in the reflection of the screen the new pip that was clipped to his collar in the rooms' lighting that simulated the wavelengths of the twin Vulcan suns, though many thought Vulcan's knew nothing of pride it was not true, they just did not let pride rule their thoughts and emotions; logic ruled over all their emotions but did not delete them though Vulcans denied their existence and Saleke took pride in his place in the fleet. The chronometer showed 18:52 so he got to his feet, he had an appointment to keep. Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Deck ten, Ten Forward - Lt. Saleke - 18:55) Saleke took a seat and waited for the Counselor to arrive, when the man entered the door he stood up and motioned him over. "Good evening Counselor Harrison, please sit down. I have had a chance to speak to few of the officers. What would you like to drink?" (Reply: Counselor John Harrison, Any) (Posted by Charles) Stardate:2406.10.02 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward - COUNS, Ensign John Harrison - 18:57) He strolled into Ten Forward and instantly saw where Saleke was. He walked over and heard the Vulcan greet him. "Good evening Counselor Harrison, please sit down. I have had a chance to speak to few of the officers. What would you like to drink?" ~Counsellor Harrison~ he thought ~That's not going to get old, is it?~ "I'll just have a cup of tea for now," he said, sitting down. "By the way, congratulations on your promotion. I'm sure you'll do an excellent job." (reply Saleke) (posted by James Batchelor)