USS Rosenante Compile Sensory Overload 10 ==================== Mission: Sensory Overload Day 2-5 Stardate: 2414.11.02 to 2414.11.05 ==================== (Rosenante Bridge, Signos, Day 2, 0601) (Runabout, Jackson, Day 2, 0602) (Runabout, Nolar, Day 2, 0603) (Runabout, C'Nell, Day 2, 0605) (Rosenante Sickbay, Andersen, Day 2, 0610) (Rosenante Bridge, Sanok, Day 2, 0611) (Rosenante Sickbay, C'Nell, Day 2, 0704) (Rosenante Sickbay, Signos, Day 2, 0707) (USS Titanic, Zyahn, Day 2, 0833) (USS Titanic, Zyahn, Day 2, 1134) (Rosenante, Jackson, Day 3,1930) (Daikatana, Corey, Day 4, 1123) (Daikatana, Bridge, Corey, Day 4, 1135) (Rosenante Bridge, Sanok, Day 4, 1145) (Daikatana, Bridge, Corey, Day 4, 1149) (SB 989, Base Commander’s Office, S’yes, Day 5, 0900) (Starbase 989, Sanok, Day 5, 0945) (Starbase 989, C'Nell, Day 5, 1000) (Starbase 989, Corey, Day 5, 1020) (Starbase 989, Nolar, Day 5, 1121) (Starbase 989, Corey, Day 5, 1235) (USS Titanic, Zyahn, Day 5, 1322) (Starbase 989, Zyahn, Day 5, 1548) (Starbase 989, Sanok & Corey, Day 5, 1600) (Starbase 989, Sanok & Zyahn, Day 5, 1900) (Starbase 989, Starfire, Zyahn, Day 5, 1912) (Starfire, Sanok, Day 5, 1933) (Starfire, Zyahn, Day 5, 1934) (Starbase 989, Holosuite 4, Signos & C'Nell, Day 5, 1935) (SB989, Finnegan's Tavern, S'yes & Zyahn, Day 5, 2004) (SB 989, RJ's, Sanok, Day 5, 2007) (Starfire, Zyahn, Day 5, 2116) (Titanic, Zyahn, Day 5, 2345) ==================== (Rosenante Bridge, Signos, Day 2, 0601) She watched the view screen before her as secondary explosions rocked the warbird. She did not need to scan the enemy ship to know the power node wss destroyed. It was evident in how the ship acted. The fact it could no longer cloak showed the extent of internal damaged. It was the same as attacking pressure points on a person. If you knew where to hit someone you could cause a goodly deal of pain, if not kill your opponent. Jessica tried, she did not want to see the warship destroyed. Nothing would be gained from that. If disabled once other federation ships made it to there position that the mission on Yora lll could be savaged. They would have the resources and the man power to know what was going on and what the Romulans had planned. She watched there was a flash from the warship's engineering. "Quickly divert all available power to the shields!" The words barely left her lips has there was a brilliant explosion from the warship's engine. The explosion spread swallowing the romulan ship, then in only final blast of brilliance the warbird blew apart. A second later, the shock wave hit the Rose's shield. The ship rocked violently and a few consoles erupted but has the wave of energy passed. Little other damage seemed to be reported. The Romulan ship was gone also with all of it's secrets. Jessica sighed, she hoped things were gonna be different. Jessica knew Romulan guarded secrets more than their lives. But the destruction of an entire ship, so mant lives wasted. She scanned keeping an eye for any other enemy ship, but as time passed and no other ships appeared. Jessica became restless, she wanted to go to medical, to C'Nell. Soon she was relived and Jessica quicly escused herself from the bridge amd headed to medical. (Reply None) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Runabout, Jackson, Day 2, 0602) The general sense of the runabout’s crew was disappointment! Cmdr. Matrix was down and seriously injured. He was virtually useless as his concussion was holding him back. With all these conditions, they’d see how the junior officers could function in a crisis. ~ What a mess~ Tom mused. This had been his first mission as CSec and he felt he had let everyone down. Then he heard the sweetest words in a long time “You are cleared to board”. They were now home and his families were but a few decks away. Tom intended to head straight to Sick Bay and get help. He’d face Sanok later. Tom Jackson didn’t like to admit failure but this time there was irrefutable proof he had done so. He began to formulate his report and critique of the mission. He was a hard a** and most people knew that. They also realized Tom was harshest on himself. Tom was seriously considering requesting a transfer to shore duty. He had missed so much of the twins growing up and was determined to rectify that. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Runabout, Nolar, Day 2, 0603) Apparently, no one had passed their engineering class. No one had answered when Gan had asked if any of them has had more than three class of engineering at starfleet academy. Better do the work yourself. So he did. Using the rubicon replicator, he managed to replicate some EPS conduits parts and started to repair one of the two main EPS conduits. He was still trying to repair it when he heard the communication from the USS Rosenante. He returned to the Cabin to realize Crenshaw and the ship had managed, without communication, to coordinate their effort to allow the USS Rosenante to position itself between the Rubicon and the D'Deridex. Morever, Gan had underestimated the Rosenante, or perhaps overestimated the condition of the D'Deridex. In any case, it seemed they would survive the day. There was no more need to fix the EPS conduits. Looking around, everyone seemed disappointed. They were all either injured, frustrated, or disappointed. Gan felt the exact opposite. Where everyone had failed, he succeeded. He had been able to repair the power facility. He had proven to Allen, and soon to the whole crew how Cardassian, thanks to cautious and meticulous approach, were superior... they succeeded where no one would. (Reply no one) ----- (Runabout, C'Nell, Day 2, 0605) The medics rushed into the shuttle and surprisingly to him; C'Nell looked at Matrix who already had help. "I am fine it is illogical to make a fuss" he said. It was as if he was remembering how a Vulcan should behave, he was in a way trying to conform. As he escaped he passed out into the arms of a nurse. ~Jess wont let me forget that one.~ (posted by Nathan) ----- (Rosenante Sickbay, Andersen, Day 2, 0610) The first thing after she entered sickbay was to get to Matrix. She knew he was in the most desperate condition, and the nurses relayed that the others are stable. For now, at least. The tests were being run, the results coming up one after another. None of it helped much. All the things she already knew. He was dying, and the saddest thing, there was nothing at all she could do for him. He needed a complete regeneration of one of his major organs. Rosenante just didn't have the level of technology present for something like that. There was only one thing she could do. "Andersen to Captain Sanok. Sir, Matrix needs immediate help, but the procedure needed isn't available on the Rosenante. Sir, there's simply nothing I can do for him. I understand we are scanning for Romulan survivors, but if we want Matrix to survive, we need to jump into warp, for the closest Starbase. It's a matter of life and death, sir." she explained, almost crying. She hated how she felt, and she really didn't like the fact so many of her friends were injured. (Reply: Sanok) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Rosenante Bridge, Sanok, Day 2, 0611) Sanok didn't have the official tactical report yet, but based on his experience in sec/tac, he questioned how quickly the Romulan ship had exploded. It had suffered damage that put it out of the fight, and there was significant damage on the interior, but it wasn't severe enough to cause it to explode. Romulans were known for self-destruction to avoid capture, but at this point, that was only speculation. There would be time later for a full investigation. "Are there any survivors out there?" said Sanok. "Were any escape pods jettisoned?" There were a few moments of silence before anyone responded. "No, sir. No life signs." What had happened out there and why? What was the reason behind why the Romulans had attacked the runabout? Knowing there were mysteries to solve, reminded Sanok of six-and-a-half years ago when he and Ben were on leave on Axtis III. Ben was entered in a martial arts tournament, but while there, Sanok and Ben had solved a murder, a murder Ben, and then Marah, had been accused of committing. Sanok never showed it, and he never spoke of it, but he missed his friend very much. =^=Andersen to Captain Sanok. Sir, Matrix needs immediate help, but the procedure needed isn't available on the Rosenante. Sir, there's simply nothing I can do for him. I understand we are scanning for Romulan survivors, but if we want Matrix to survive, we need to jump into warp, for the closest starbase. It's a matter of life and death, sir.=^= "Understood, Doctor, but we are several days from Starbase 989. Is placing Commander Matrix in medical stasis a viable option?" While waiting for Andersen's response, Sanok found himself thinking of Ben.... (reply Andersen) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Rosenante Sickbay, C'Nell, Day 2, 0704) C'Nell began to regain consciousness in the bed, his wounds mostly healed. "He has been asleep an hour" one of the junior meds said. "59 minutes" C'Nell replied and then he observed who the sentence was aimed at saw Jessica, he wondered how long she had been there. He kissed her lightly, straining a little. "You did really well, good shooting. We were a mess down on the planet." (Reply Signos) "It doesn't matter that it was destroyed, we might have died otherwise. Sanok is going to fry us and after my rush, I am pretty certain he will apply for a new candidate over me for the Science Officer post.". C'Nell let a tear escape, but choked it back-to cry was illogical. He forgot that sometimes, he needed to go to Vulcan, learn his proper heritage over his earth mother. (Reply Signos iyw) (Posted by Nathan) ----- (Rosenante Sickbay, Signos, Day 2, 0707) She wasted no time in getting to the sickbay once relieved from the bridge. Once she entered the large roombshe saw the members of the away team being moved to different areas of the bay. She found C'Nell in a small alcove being tended to by a medical nurse. She walked up to the two. "How long?" It was a simple enough question that could have varied outcomes. "He's been asleep an hour." The nurse answered. Then a voice came from the bio bed "59 minutes." Jessica looked at C'Nell a smile crossing her face as he kissed her hand, straining in the effort. "You did really well, good shooting. We were a mess down on the planet." "I should of been down there, but at least I was able to stop the Romulan warbird. I just can believe they destroyed themselves to hide their secrets." "It doesn't matter that it was destroyed. " C'Nell responded. "We might have died otherwise. Sanok is going to fry us and after my rush, I am pretty certain he will apply for a new candidate over me for the Science Officer post." She watched as a tear escaped her loves eye. He choaked back the rest. Jessica knew that C'Nell suffered internal conflict between his human and vulcan halfs. He chose to keep more of his emotions open to the rest of the world. Jessica loved that about him. He had accepted her when few would. She had suffered rejection before and it broke her heart. "I would not fret about the Captain or the science officer positions. Look at me, I will probably never promote futher than I am." Then she lowered her face to his ear whispering. "I'm to high of security risk, but for the most part I am happy to be here with you." She held his hand softly. "Now get some rest." (Reply C'Nell) She waited till C'Nell fell into a meditative rest before she moved to see the rest o her wounded friends. She watched Cmdr Matrix has doctors and nurses overed about him hoping that he would pull though this dark time. She moved to and looked in on Jackson, Dahlia was already there, a worried look on her face. It was the same worried look that was on Jessica's heart. Both Jackson and C'Nell had taken a beating. Jessica placed a hand on Dahlia's shoulder "He will be Ok." She spoke calmly "He's strong and stubborn." (Reply Jackson, Dahlia, C'nell iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (USS Titanic, Zyahn, Day 2, 0833) The mission of exploration they had been on had been rather, surprising. As much as she tried to recall iin her memory of Orihan and herself, she could recall anything like this. The USS Titanic had been investigating a rogue planet at the very edge of explored space. Space was empty, like a void. The closest star was several light years away. They didn't realize it had first, but time there was going much faster than anywhere else in the galaxy. In reality, their exploration mission had lasted close to a year. In term of time they were gone, according to Starfleet Command, only three months had passed. She had been convoked in the CO office. "Sir." she said. "You have done well in this mission. I don't think it could have been a success without you." the CO said. "Thank you sir. But I only did my job." she replied. "It's a strange feeling. I have chosen you to be part of my crew because I saw your potential. I knew you would make an excellent addition to our crew. Also, it's a young crew and I wanted someone of experience. I found myself today to regret my decision." the CO said. Ayehla could not understand what she had did wrong. Her CO was a rational person, and nothing suggested he was being affected or impaired by any substance or aliens. "My decision was egoistic. I was looking to have the best crew. I chose a young officer with the lifetime of ten people as my second officer without even considering in what situation I was pulling you into. I am only 40. My first officer is only 35. If you stay on this ship, you have no chance of promotion for the next twenty years." the CO said. "You have showed me during that year that you have a promising career ahead of you, and I would be disappointed to slow it down for my own sake. Starlfeet is in need of you better than I do." "Sir. With all due respect. You did not force me to come on this ship. I chose to come and I don't regret it at all. To the contrary. The experience i lived on this ship during that year was remarkable. We have a very nice crew. I've made friends on this ship. I don't want to go anywhere else." Ayehla replied, sure of herself. . "I thank you for those words. But I still think you deserve better. I had a talk with the Admiral a few hours ago. They are launching a new ship, the USS Starfire. The admiralty had been searching for a First Officer with certain characteristics in mind. They wanted someone with advanced tactical skills. Someone who would have no problem to adapt to a Defiant-class ship and the very spartian conditions. For every characteristic they were looking for, I could not stop but think about you. The admiral agrees you make for a strong candidate. Anyway, I just wanted to tell you you are considered for the job, and I would really like you to think about it. As I said, I really believe you would make an excellent FO on this ship, and it would be egoistic to keep you here. I anticipated you would want to stay, so I'm trying here to make the decision easier for you. This is a great opportunity for you. I really think you should take it." the CO said. In Ayehla's mind, all the experiences, all the great relations she had with the crew during that mission came to mind. Those feelings were so great...the experiences were so strong. She felt at home on the Titanic. "You are right, I don't see myself leaving this ship." she replied. "Then, please do something for me. Please promise me you will reflect on it for the next few days." the CO said. "I will, sir. " she replied. (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (USS Titanic, Zyahn, Day 2, 1134) After her meeting with the CO, Ayehla had been spending the next three hours in her quarters, reflecting about the reaffectation. So many lifetime, so many experiences, and yet she couldn't made her mind quickly. The closest memory to the kind of choice she was facing was the decision Alaniel had had to made early in his career. He had felt deeply in love for Netoya, but his career has an athlete had gone well. Came a time where Trill infrastructure and teaching weren't sufficient anymore. If he wanted to really become one of the best athlete in the Quadrant in his sport, he had to leave his home, his family, his friend and settle on Perthus II, where the best trainers were. That meant also sacrificing Netoya. She had a job on Trill she couldn't leave. He chose success over family and love.... and all his life, he regretted his decision. Perthus II had never been ever close to what he dreamed it would be. He was the only Trill there, and find it incredibly difficult. Most people there were teenagers, only thinking about fun. They had been immature, prone to competition... Alaniel was himself only 24, but being joined, he had the maturity of 8 lifetime. Netoya had been nice and waited for him....for a few years...and then she found someone else. In the end, he lost his love, his motivation, his friends for something that hadn't been worth it. Voran has had a completely different experience. He was fresh from university when an opportunity presented himself. One of his diplomatic relations teacher had been transferred to a University on Denobulal. Back then, few Trill were used to leave their homeworld. So everyone of his friends, family, had suggested him not to follow his teacher...but in the end, his relation with that teacher had been so good...he had decided to go with him there, on post-graduate studies. The kind of doors such experience had opened him had been phenomenal. He still remembered when a political conflict arose between the Denobulans and the Trill. Because of his experiences with the Denobulans, his teacher had been the one leading the diplomatic talks for the Trill government. Voran was asked to help during those talks. With such experiences in his belt, his career as a diplomat became much easier. The two experiences were worth reflecting upon. Both a lead to very opposite conclusion. Alaniel had left a home he loved for the risk of something better...leaving everything behind, and he regretted it. Voran had done pretty much the same, with the exception he knew his teacher. If he hadn't taken that risk, he may have never become a diplomat. However, the more she reflected upon it, the more Alaniel circumstances seemed closer to her reality than Voran's one. For the last couple of years, she had been bumped from one ship to another...the Tesla, the Mithrandir, the Titanic. It was only on that third ship that she finally felt at home. She felt such a chemistry with the crew... There was such a risk leaving it all behind for a promotion she didn't even know would work out. She knew absolutely no one on the ship. A Defiant-class was more a warship than a diplomatic or science ship. If it was closer to what Ayehla was looking for, it wasn't what Zyahn was the most comfortable with. As a joined Trill, she now preferred the kind of family and stable environment the Titanic was offering. There was much more opportunity for adventure, for recreation, for learning new experiences, meeting new people... What could she do on a Defiant-class? The ship was almost the size of a runabout. Everyone in Starfleet heard about the size of the quarters. Even a FO would have a smaller quarter on the Defiant, than an enlisted crew members have on a Prometheus-class. Before you were joined, the Symbiot Commission always used to tell you how much it is important you follow your own path. You must experiences new things. A symbiot must gain new experiences, so it is important you try something very different from what your previous hosts have lived. Does that meant trying again something new? But too new...too many changes were damaging. Already, learning to live with 9 other people within you, with all their own personalities and experiences had been an unsettling experiences. Only recently, after years of getting use to it, was she feeling more comfortable with her new personality, tastes, preferences... Getting a sense of stability...something to hold on to while all those changes were occuring had been hard. But now she had found it...in the USS Titanic and its crew. Deep inside her, she couldn't find the reason to leave that behind. It was too precious to leave. Perhaps her captain was right that if she said no now, she would miss a huge opportunity for her career. Alaniel....Voran.... But what was wrong with staying as a 20 and Chief Tactical Officer for several more years? On the Titanic, there would be no problem at all. There was so much potential....so much the Titanic could accomplish. Could the same be said of the USS Starfire.... (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Rosenante, Jackson, Day 3,1930) Sounds good for the portal for what seemed an eternity. He was oblivious to the comings and goings. His focus was somewhere other than the current time and place. Tom was thinking of the brief conversation he had just had with Sanok. With Steve Matrix down he was acting First a Officer. The captain explained they'd be dry docked for extensive repairs and refitting. Tom couldn't read Sanok the way Ben Soma could. Tom was told SF Command had determined his services were not needed on the Rosenante any longer. He would be transferred to SB Geneva for an extended shore assignment, Tom picked his haw up off the floor and made his exit without comment. His concentration was so intense he didn't notice Dahlia's entrance. " A penny for your thoughts Tom" she whispered. Tom slowly turned and smiled sadly as he held her close. She noticed the dried teats in her man's face. "We are leaving the Rose" Tom said simply. Moments passed before she dared to speak. She sensed Tom's hurt and extreme disappointment at being passed over once again. Part of the reason was Pez and the other part wS Tom wasn't a butt kisser and spike his mind. "Where are we going my beloved?" Dahlia asked finally. Tom sighed and said "SB Geneva - I anticipate my job will be in OPS". She smiled. "You'll be able to see the kids grow up maybe this in a blessing Tom". Tom smiled and said " I hope so ". (Reply: None) (posted by Bill West) ----- (Daikatana, Corey, Day 4, 1123) Same job as any else they said. Daikatana was heavily damaged, and was a lumping free kill, and even in that state, she was still escorting her cargo ship. "Wane personal log. I don't know what is on that ship, but it's sure as hell not what they told us. Of course we weren't allowed to question. Two local military powers attacked us in the last four hours...I don't know for how long this ship can take it. She's in ruins, barely holding together. We lost our Captain, and all the decisions are now made by me. I never wanted this, but I will see this to the end. Kargot, my friend and my Captain, was against any help, but he was a Klingon, a stubborn Klingon as well. We won't survive another attack, our warp engines are damaged beyond repair... I have little choice but to send the emergency signal on all frequencies. Hopefully someone is close by to hear them." "Wane personal log, supplemental. The ship is gone in high warp, and we are left behind, they sacrificed us so they can pass through the system with anomalies and get to their destination. Both of the local factions dispatched ships which are on our intercept course. The waiting is killing, we are dead in the water and can only wait for them here. In the meantime, my helms officer says our damaged long range sensors picked up a Federation signal moving on high warp. If it's not sensor tricks playing with us, then we might save our skins from this job after all. We have no means of communication, so we can only hope they pick our emergency signal broadcast and get here before the others do. Wane out." (Reply: none) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Daikatana, Bridge, Corey, Day 4, 1135) The crew of the Daikatana restlessly tried repairing as much system as it was possible in the time they had on their hands. It was understandable that in a current state that the ship was, they would not be able to defend themselves for too long. The priority was put on defensive system, by Wane's order. Even though some of the crew wanted to go in a blaze of glory, he knew better. He had a plan. "Status." asked Corey. "Impulse engines barely functional. Warp engines heavily damaged and inoperable. Shields are holding at 12 percent, hull is moderately damaged. Our weapon batteries are almost depleted. Our main battery has been destroyed. Our structural integrity field system is down and we are leaking plasma. On the flip side, we still have our photon torpedo launcher working and our self-destruct system is in tact." The Romulan said. He was manning the post that was Corey's before the Captain was killed by a bulkhead. "We are receiving a communication. It's from one of the ships in front of us." The same man said, looking back at Corey for a confirmation. "Patch it through." "You will....... all your valuabl...... including..... or prep..... be destr....." The communication system was heavily damaged. It was a miracle they were even able to hear as much as they did. "That's all sir." "It would seem they want all our valuables. Then that is what they shall get." Corey explained, jumping up from the seat. "I do not understand, sir." "This is our chance to take the battle to them. Prepare our shuttle." "Yes, sir. But who will pilot it?" "You will. Remotely. Remember back at Ryansi we used the shuttle as a drone? We will be using the same control mechanism from then." "So we will just ram them with a shuttle?" Romulan shrugged, didn't seem as a sofisticated idea he was looking for. "In on itself a good idea, but it probably wouldn't be enough to destroy one of their ships. We still have several large bars of mercassium left over as a tip from our Cardassian friend last time we escorted him?" "Mercassium is highly resistant material used for Federation and Cardassian shield generators, sir." the Romulan explained. "You're thinking too advanced. Gotta get to a more basic level. After it's hardened, it's one of the more durable and heat resistant materials. However, before it's hardening, it's susceptible to extreme pressure levels. If we can get a secondary reactant to a supercritical mass, we can relay the critical power wave towards the mercassium plates by compressing the material using the secondary reactant as the same as we would use any explosive, thus we can harness the released pressure to fortify the explosion ten-fold." "We could use the uncased photon torpedo as an explosive in the chain." "Now, you're thinking my language. To top it off, if we enrich the photon torpedo with the lithium trigger we use for our warp core reactions, we would get a lot of deuteriums flying around during that explosion, as a secondary destructive thermal-kinetic wave." "It would be like a one big bomb." Romulan said raising his eyebrow "And the best thing is, the shuttle wouldn't have to land on their ship, it would be enough if it would be close." "If we fly it between the two ships, if they are close enough, we could take two." "I'll leave that part in your capable hands." "Best case scenario means two ships down, but there's still two more to go." He patted the Romulan on his shoulder, "One ship at the time, my friend, one ship at a time." The plan was to present the Daikatana as a hard target, still with teeth. Corey knew exactly their hands were tied against the other two ships on the intercept course. What he was counting on, however, is that Federation ship would be dropping in before they are turned to dust. He knew the whole area is filled with subspace anomalies and only high technology level ships are able to fly at warp at this part of space, so he knew it will take some time for the Federation ship to arrive. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Rosenante Bridge, Sanok, Day 4, 1145) The Rose was still a day away from Starbase 989 and things had returned to a normal routine. Lieutenant Commander Matrix was in medical stasis, but everyone else had been treated and allowed to return to duty. The engineering department was repairing what damage they could from the battle with the Romulan ship, but most of the work would need to be done at the base. To cut down on the travel time to 989, Sanok had chosen a route that passed very close to a region of space called the Silent Rift. It was unlikely they would encounter any difficulties, but as was typical for Sanok in his career, the unlikely was just what happened. First, the Rose had picked up a distress signal. There was interference because of the area of space, but it was clear that it was indeed a call for help. When the Rose had gotten closer, sensors were able to identify the ship as a D12 Klingon Bird of Prey. An old ship, but functional enough. It was badly damaged, but as of yet, they couldn't tell why. Sensors had also detected four incoming ships heading directly towards the D12. Sanok ordered an increase in speed. After a short time, the four ships slowed, then turned away and began heading out of the area. It seemed they didn't want an encounter with a Starfleet vessel. When the Rose was close enough to be clear of the local interference, Sanok ordered a sensor scan of the D12. Based on the report, it had taken quite a beating. "Open a comm channel," said Sanok. "Channel open." "Klingon ship. This is Captain Sanok of the Federation starship, USS Rosenante. We are here in response to your distress signal. How can we help you?" (reply Daikatana) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Daikatana, Bridge, Corey, Day 4, 1149) This place... so much twisting of the space, so much gravitational fields, so much subspace anomalies. They had a map through the rift, an old map they got from the other merchants but it was worth every damn latinum slip. It showed a clear path between the three local alpha blackholes and a steady, stable high way on impulse speed around the most major anomalies. This region of space was devoid of any stars, and the outer stars' lights wouldn't shine through the Rift. If someone wanted to slip past them, only thing they needed to do is fool the sensors by masking energy signatures, and literally turn off the lights. In fact, if he could have done the first thing, they would be in a totally different situation now. Sadly, the negative particles created by the anomalies in the Silent Rift prevented Daikatana for even trying to engage their cloaking device, let alone maintaining a stable cloaking field around the ship. "I'm sure we can add additional power to the structural integrity if we take the disruptors offline." "Then we won't be able to defend ourselves, sir." the Romulan was surprised. "There are multiple ways to defend oneself, and weapons aren't always the best answer. I want all emergency power brought to the shields, at the current capacity, they won't hold for longer then a minute of continuous enemy fire." Corey ordered. "Sir, I don't want to argue with you, but the crew feels we should bring them some punishment, if we really must go down, at least make the old man proud." "I have no intention of going down." he explained calmly, while passing away the PADD with the subsystem repair priority list to the crewman. "Sir, that silhuette you found on the long range sensors, appears to gained some proximity. It would appear you were correct, it indeed seems to be a Federation vessel, although I don't recognize it's configuration. This is interesting, it would seem our friends don't feel courageous enough to attack us in front of the Starfleet vessel." "Are we still broadcasting the emergency signal?" "Yes. In fact, it would appear they're responding to our distress signal." "Open the channel." "Klin.... Captain Sanok..... ship... nante.... response to.... stress signal.... help you..." "Let's hope they can understand us better then we can understand them." he said nodding to the Romulan "Federation vessel, I am First Officer Corey of the Klingon Bird-of-Prey Daikatana, acting under freelancer licence governed and allowed by the Klingon chancellor. I'd send you the clearance, but our secondary data communication device has been destroyed, we can go through all the paperwork later. We sustained heavy damage through unprovoked attacks by the local ships in the area, we are unable to defend ourselves, unable to warp out of the system nor are we in any capability of repairing the damage ourselves. We kindly ask if you could tow us to the nearest Outpost or a Starbase, or at the very least, provide safe passage for our crew." "Sir." the Romulan whispered while waiting for the Federation ship to respond. "For a moment, our lateral sensors picked up a bounce of our ECM waves back to us, but the actual scans of the area do not confirm a visual." It was either another ship monitoring what was happening, or it was the Rift, playing tricks with sensors, as it usually would. Neither mattered much, one would think, with a modern Starfleet vessel gaining on their position, surely, they could see better then Daikatana could. (Reply: Sanok) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (SB 989, Base Commander’s Office, S’yes, Day 5, 0900) S’yes was sitting patiently outside the base commander’s office waiting for his appointment. The summons spiked the Caitian officer’s curiosity. He had been on the base for a day or so now. S ‘yes watched the ships coming and goings with interest. “Lieutenant, the Admiral will see you now” the aide de camp announced. “Thank You Commander” and S‘yes rose and entered the admiral’s office and stood at attention. “At Ease Mr. S‘yes – take a seat” the admiral suggested. S‘yes sat at attention – a habit he had picked up at the academy and not yet grown out of. “I suppose you are curious as to the reason behind the summons Lieutenant. I’ll enlighten you” the admiral added with a twinkle in his eye. S‘yes said “Caitians are curious by nature Sir”. “I suppose you’ve noticed a new Defiant class ship in the dock yard” the admiral said offhandedly. “I was wondering about her Sir” S‘yes admitted. “Well that is the USS Starfire soon to be under the command of Captain Sanok” the admiral added. S ‘yes searched his mind – ~ of the Rosenante renown?~ he wondered. The admiral turned serious. “Lieutenant, from this point forward this is a classified discussion”. S‘yes answered “Aye Admiral”. “Captain Sanok is currently the CO of the Rosenante. The Rose was severely damaged on a recent mission which turned up some VERY interesting details. As a result of their discoveries, the Rose has been severely damaged and will be in dry dock for an extended period. SF Command has ordered the transfers of the Rosenante crew to other assignments. Sanok will be given the Starfire and a new crew. We need a ship out on patrol as the Fleet is still weak from the Civil War” he added. S‘yes chewed on the data for a moment before replying. “Admiral, pardon my inquisitiveness but what does this have to do with me?” the Caitian asked. The admiral’s face began to show a smile. He let the lieutenant sit a bit longer before answering. “I am assigning you as the Chief of Operations with a recommendation to be Second Officer as well”. S‘yes, if human would dropped his jaw. He had secretly coveted a starship job. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Starbase 989, Sanok, Day 5, 0945) The Rose had finally arrived at SB 989, and a lot had happened on the way. Two days ago, after having sent a full report on Yora III and the attack from the Romulan ship, Sanok received a call on a secure channel from Command. While the Rose would be undergoing repairs from the battle with the Romulans, it had been decided that the ship would be given updates and upgrades. This would remove the Rose from service for several months, so in the meantime, the crew was going to be reassigned. Sanok was also told what his new assignment would be. Because of his record and experiences, Sanok was being named as the commanding officer of a new Defiant class starship that was ready to be launched, the USS Starfire. He was permitted to choose his senior staff, but when he said he wanted Lieutenant Commander Jackson, he was denied. Sanok knew it was because of Pez's interference, and Sanok protested this decision on the grounds that it was not fair, but Command wouldn't hear of it. Sanok had met with Jackson and told him of the decision that was made, that Jackson would be reassigned to SB Geneva. Jackson had been shocked, and he hadn't said a word after being informed. Sanok could understand the man's disappointment, but with a wife and two young children, this would be an opportunity for Jackson to serve in Starfleet, and still be with his family. There were only four candidates available for the FO position, and Sanok had studied their files. He had made his choice, but was told that the officer was recommended by her captain, but was possibly unwilling to take the new position. Her current ship would be on 989, so Sanok would have time to meet with her to discuss it. The day before reaching 989, the Rose had responded to a distress signal near the Silent Rift. A freelancer escort had been attacked and badly damaged. The Rose had arrived in time to scare off their pursuers, towing the small ship to 989. Sanok was able to talk with its engineer, a former Starfleet officer that had fought on the Doenitz side during the civil war. Upon learning of his resolve and skills in saving the ship after the captain had been killed, Sanok spent time researching the man. Though he disliked the Doenitz connection, and that the man had spent time in prison, he was part of the general pardon given by Starfleet to any personnel that wished to return to service. For a Defiant and the types of missions they were likely to get, a man like that engineer could be a valuable asset to have. Sanok was scheduled to meet the base admiral, but after that, he had several things he needed to do on 989.... (reply none) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Starbase 989, C'Nell, Day 5, 1000) C'Nell was glad to be on the starbase it would give him some time with Jessica, he had told her to meet him in the holosuite at 1100 that gave him an hour to finish off the programme. It had been transferred from the Rose but the superior starbase facilities would make it better. He guarded his secret time away from the crew (most of them knew of his plan just not what it contained) like Gollum in the ancient book which escaped his notice. (Reply None) ----- (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Corey, Day 5, 1020) It was nice doing a walkabout on a Starfleet starbase's promenade after all these years. The customs haven't changed much although there were some new races Wane couldn't recognize. He'd by lying if he said he didn't feel nervous, he was so used to a position on a freelancer ship as a permanent place of living, that he could only look at these magnificent space cities in awe. Daikatana was towed back to Starbase, he did what he felt was necessary, he gave the crew a short leave. After contacting the Klingons, Starfleet running the 989 decided they would help with the basic repairs. Due to some systems being destroyed, Daikatana would never be as good ship as she was before, since Starfleet engineers didn't have Klingon parts just laying around. However, he was told the ship would fly again. Torix, his Romulan friend and a current first officer of the Daikatana took it personally, and decided to track down the ship they were escorting. Without proper judgement, Wane told him, he would end up destroyed, but the young man wouldn't listen. He asked Wane to be given the ship. He was reckless, somewhat inexperienced but when he would have put his mind to something he could definitely do it. Strange thing even to himself, he actually said he'd think about it. A Captain of the Starfleet vessel that helped them and towed them, Captain Sanok, did a talk with Corey asking him lots of details about the escorting mission they were in. He did not know to what extent Starfleet knows about the races involved in the skirmish, but he promptly told him all that he knew, skipping the things he thought was but he had no proofs. Thanking him for showing up just in time to save the day, he asked him if he could stay on a Starbase for a time being, he needed a short brake. He was allowed. In the meantime, the crew were getting ready for a commemoration. They still had their friend to put down to rest. He'd want nothing more then be sent into the great deep space. Wane decided he'd add Captain's Bat'leth inside as well, and the rest of the bridge crew did a plaque "A great warrior was born, fiercely lived, honorably died. We set a course for Sto'vo'kor, our Captain goes on one last voyage." (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Starbase 989, Nolar, Day 5, 1121) When he had been assigned to the USS Rosenante as ACEO, Gan really thought at last he would see some actions. Having been on a Station for so long had been a little boring. Always the same surrounding.... always the same kind of duty. The USS Rosenante was really promising. But there he was, back on Starbase 989 with the news that after a very short mission, the ship would be under repaired for the next few months and Gan would have to be reassigned. Gan also learned that while Sanok would have a new ship, the USS Starfire, it was still without a Chief Engineer, yet Gan had not been asked to fill that roll. If the opportunity had been open to return to Cardassia Prime right now, he would resign his commission and return. But his life was still threatened there. So until a new engineer job was opening elsewhere, he would have to stay at his favorite starbase. (Reply, no one) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Starbase 989, Corey, Day 5, 1235) "It as been done! Someone actually brought you right here in Starfleet turf. Welcome my friend and brother, long time no see." the man said, hugging Wane. It was Michael, his father's friend from childhood and his mother's first highschool sweetheart. "Hey, it's good to see you, old man." Wane smiled. "You know I just came back from a long talk with your mother, she's still the fine woman I used to know, and one of the damn finest engineers I ever had a privilege to meet." "Yeah..." Wane said trying to think up what to say about it, but since he didn't really see his mother for quite some time, he had little words to spare. Seeing Wane stutter a bit, Michael seemed to decide to change the topic a bit, the old man knew he had to keep Wane's brain working if he wanted his own words to go through Wane and stay there. "Anyway, may I actually ask how did you developed the signal booster array for the listening posts? I'd understand if it's limited access data, but at least some information would go a long way of understanding what kind of equipment we're installing in our outposts." "Well, I believe the details are classified, but to put it to simple terms, the signal processing system involves compression and expansion as well as recreating the harmonical content of the signal, it is then fed up to a bank of dynamic filters, and then it's unprocessed main signal, however distorted and weak it is, is side-chained with the processed signal in a way that the original signal becomes modified additively and subtractively. This is then further ran through phase shift and correction units, the signal is compressed to mainly the high-frequencies and fed through subspace relay compiler and sent towards the nearest outpost or a starbase, where it is further expanded upon arriving, ready to be received." "Sounds so easy when you explain it." he smiled. "Tell you what, your family's been real nice to me. They helped me when I had it rough in my life, the downward spiral part, they helped me picked my dignity up and keep my chin up too. So, it's only fair that I try to do my best to help you as well. I'm gonna be frank with you, I know what happened before and I know you've been avoiding Starfleet territory all this time for a reason. But you haven't been visiting your family, and work out there is dangerous as a freelancer. Your mother asked me to come talk to you first thing she heard that the ship you served on was towed back." "I'm glad you came for a talk, but I'm really fine. I needed some time off the Starfleet until dust got swooped away." "I know what you mean, Wane. Listen... I can offer you a place back home in my team, you'd be directing the Engineering projects, and keeping things oiled up as a main supervisor of the team. Can't think of a better man for the job. Easy as pie for you, but you'd be close to home and safe. It's the best that I can offer." "Thanks. I really need to think about it." "You make sure you do. Your mother's been aching me to talk you over into it for hours. My guess she just wants to see you back home. I'll be going now, I'm staying at deck 17, suite 89." "Bye, old man. Take care." Wane said smiling. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (USS Titanic, Zyahn, Day 5, 1322) The USS Titanic was to arrive at Starbase 989 in two hours. There wasn't much for her to do, so the captain had given her the day off to reflect on the decision she would have to take. But right now, she was too hungry to even think. On board the Titanic she had gotten an habit to do a one hour jugging in the arboretum and then go the hydroponic bay to get some fresh and natural vegetables to cook herself a diner. It was midday, yet she thought it could be nice to do it once more time, just in case she would change her mind. She loved cooking, especially fresh vegetables. She knew it was coming from Shahydra, her previous host. She was a nutritionist who was convinced replicator food would one day cause an incurable disease. Ayehla didn't shared her opinion, yet fresh vegetables had a taste a replicator just couldn't imitate. And even if she was pretty sure no disease would happen, fresh food was probably indeed better for the health. "Oh here you are" said the First Officer while Ayehla was trying to chose which vegetables she wanted to eat. "Nothing better than fresh vegetables, wouldn't you agree?" she asked to her superior. "I should eat more of them. I've been so used to the replicators on the Intrepid-class I was on before, I always forget the Prometheus-class has quite a nice hydroponic bay." the FO replied. "I was about to cook something, are you hungry?" Ayehla asked. "Well, I won't say know. I've heard you have quite some skill." she said smiling. "In ten lifetime, good bet you will always have at least one of them who was into cooking, luckily. If you had asked me to cook before the joining, good chance I would have mysteriously disappeared." Ayehla added. The FO started to help Ayehla pick some vegetables. "I've heard you are leaving?" the FO asked. "A rumor or someone told you?" Ayehla asked. "FO privilege, lot of sources, all protected." she said smiling. "I was also thinking to prepare a cake...but since you don't want to tell me." teased Ayehla. "I forgot you had been trained to get information" she teased back. "I haven't decided yet, but to be honest, it's too great here. I see no reason to leave." Ayehla replied more seriously. "We have a nice crew, but the Titanic is not the only fine crew in the fleet. I'm sure the Starfire would be nice too. At least, give captain Sanok the opportunity to show it to you." the FO replied. "That's why I said I've not decided yet. I still give Sanok and the Starfire a chance, but I'm telling you, I am doubtful my mind will change." Ayehla explained. As they have chose their vegetables, the two officers started walking towards the turbolift. "You haven't told me what was your source" Ayehla commented. "I have none. He did told me about the opening, but I know you haven't taken a decision yet. I was just testing you, to see if I could get a hint of where your thinking where at" the FO explained. "And?" asked Ayehla. "It's easier just ask!" she said laughing. They stepped in the turbolift. "I promised him I would try to convince you, but...... if you were to accept.......I would really miss you." the FO said, not without a hint of emotions surfacing. "Very convincing! Seriously, you have nothing to worry about. My mind is pretty much made." she replied. "Even if you were to see a very handsome man?" the FO asked. "Even that has no effect on a Trill. But if there was, you know there is a FO position open on the USS Starfire." she teased. "Oh, so now you want my job and get rid of me both at the same time! I thought we were friends." she joked back. "We are. Friends share everything, don't they?" she said laughing. "Oh, and you want that man too... you have such a hunger!" she replied. "I have. It's gonna be awesome" Ayehla replied while looking at the vegetables she had in her hands. (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Starbase 989, Zyahn, Day 5, 1548) The USS Titanic had docked to Starbase 989. Her CO and FO had been convoked to the Admiral office for debriefing. The 20 didn't had to go. So Ayehla thought she could spend the time to get a look at what would be discussed in the next few days. Over the long bay giving to the USS Starfire, she was looking at it, staring at every detail, every window, every array. It was a brand new.ship, with some of the latest technologies. A Defiant-class ship, one of the biggest threat in the Starfleet Armada. Not only did the Defiant had slightly more firepower than the Prometheus-class, it's incredible maneuverability and impulse speed make it one of the most though ship to face. Ships equipped with disruptors such as Romulan or Klingon ships had a hard time aiming it. The Defiant was also very effective against any quick ship. But for what made it a huge success for Starfleet meant a lot of compromise for the crew. The ship was so small, with almost nothing on it....no hydroponic, no arboretum, no holodeck.... not even a ready room for the FO. She still remembered the time she was a marine. Marine were not used to luxury. Often, the ship on which they were carried on had not planned to have to carry marine, so all that was left were the smallest crew quarters. Some were not even quarters, but cargo storage quickly transformed into a huge common bedroom with 16 Bunk-beds to share with 31 other marine, Often, there was no holodeck to spend time and when there were, their superior didn't allowed it. So a Defiant-class would be no problem for Ayehla Nodel. But she was not Ayehla Nodel, she was Ayehla Zyahn. She was a joined Trill whose life and personality had changed a lot. She could never return to the life she had before. How could she? Ayehla Nodel was an impulsive woman who were afraid of nothing because she never really took the time to care. She just jumped from one dangerous place to another, without ever looking back, and without even questioning what she was doing. She was a train, or a bull....just going straight and through any obstacle she found on her way. She was careless about herself. Injuries, death, she didn't cared what happened to her. Ayehla Zyahn had Zyahn to take care for. She could never allow the symbiot to die. A symbiot life was the most important life in the Trill culture. And, she wasn't just Ayehla, she was also all the other hosts before Ayehla. No....the Defiant was not for her... She wasn't Ayehla Nodel. (Reply any, iyw) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Starbase 989, Sanok & Corey, Day 5, 1600) For the last few hours, Sanok had been involved in meetings, briefings, and in studying personnel files. Having chosen his senior staff, it was now time to talk to each of them. The first would be the new chief engineer. Sanok preferred to speak with the FO candidate first, but her current ship was just now arriving at the base, so he would see her later in the day. Sanok had sent a messenger to contact the new engineer, asking him to meet with Sanok in his temporary quarters at precisely 1600 hours. He waited for the door chime to ring. At the other side of the doors stood Wane, past few hours spent on a quiet ceremony attended only be few selected officers from the Daikatana, where he said his last goodbyes to a person that believed in him and stood by him the last two years. A part of his was sad for his Klingon friend, yet another part felt proud for the fact his friend died honorably, all that he would have wanted. He was still looking at the door, thinking of why he was exactly called in. Oblivious to the reason, he decided to step in and find out himself. It was exactly 1600, when he burst in, not waiting to be called in - somehow, few Starfleet customs were lost on him, and this was one of them, confronting Captain Sanok directly forward, extending his arm to press the door control button nonchalantly. "You wanted to see me." he murmured in his chin, it wasn't a question but a statement. He was that kind of man, and he knew very well if a Starfleet Captain wanted to see him, he had good reasons to. The door to Sanok's temporary quarters opened without the sound of the door chime. Wane Corey strode in, stating why he was there. "Come in, Mister Corey." Sanok had learned sarcasm long ago. "Please sit." Sanok paused before continuing. "As you know from our short conversation when we towed you here, the Rosenante was damaged in a battle with a Romulan ship. Because of this, the Rose is going to be out of commission while repairs are being done. The crew is being reassigned and I have been given command of a new Defiant class ship that will be launching soon. "After hearing what you did to save your ship and the rest of your crew, I studied your personnel file. Though it is disagreeable to me that you fought on the Doenitz side during the civil war, and that you served time in prison, on a Defiant class, I need people like you. Mister Corey, I would like for you to be the chief engineer on the Starfire." Wane patiently listened to Sanok, scratching his chin. "On any other day, on any other situation such as this one, I'd say no since my past with Starfleet wasn't exactly stellar, but I see you have no problem speaking your mind, a trait I like, Captain. I'd hate serving on a ship and being left in the dark, again. I think we'd go along fine. Also I have indeed been thinking about returning to Starfleet for some time as well, I am very familiar with the Defiant class, it's the class of ship I've been serving on and commandeered during the civil war. I accept your offer, Captain. As I understand it's a brand new vessel, when will be our shakedown cruise?" Sanok still had reservations about asking Corey to be chief engineer, but the man was definitely qualified. Under the Starfleet Amnesty Act, Corey was permitted to return to service, and Sanok had made sure he did any security checks he could do. "We will be leaving in two days, at 1500 hours. I will process your paperwork and have you officially reinstated at the rank of lieutenant jg, with the appropriate security clearances. Once you hear from base operations, you will need to get a uniform. Do you have anything else you wish to say?" "Not at this time, Captain." Wane said, thinking how wise was from the Vulcan Captain to paint a picture of a man based on his present, not of his past. He was looking forward working on a Defiant class after all these years, he wasn't up to date what kind of refitting were done to make these viable front line ships again. "Very good," said Sanok. "There is still much to do before we leave, so that will be all. Thank you, Lieutenant Corey, and welcome aboard." (reply none) (posted by Bob & Lani) ----- (Starbase 989, Sanok & Zyahn, Day 5, 1900) Sanok had met with most of his senior staff, and now it was time to meet with the officer he had chosen to be his new FO. He had spoken first with her current captain and been told she might not be willing to accept the position. To aid his cause, Sanok had asked her to meet him on the observation deck overlooking the new ship, the Starfire. Ayehla was back to the place she had been a few hours ago. This time to meet Captain Sanok. If her mind was almost made up, and she did not anticipated to change her mind, it would not be appropriate to be close minded and waste the captain's time. So instead, she came, willing to listen to everything he had to say, opened to be convinced to stay. Despite the noise around him, Sanok heard the footsteps of someone approaching him. He also saw the reflection in the glass of a female officer in command red. He turned around and saw that it was indeed Lieutenant Zyahn. "Greetings Captain. Congratulation for your recent promotion. I have read your resume, quite impressing!" Ayehla started with a light smile to show she was receptive to the meeting and happy to meet him. "Good evening, Lieutenant, and thank you." Normally, a Vulcan wouldn't acknowledge the congratulations, but Sanok was not the typical Vulcan. Having once lived with his emotions, he had learned the value of politeness and manners. "I will get directly to the reason I have asked you here. As you know, your captain from the Titanic recommended you for the FO position on the Starfire. Based on your record, and on your background in Sec/Tac, I have chosen you as the best available officer for the job. The Starfire is scheduled to leave in two days, at 1500 hours. I am asking you to be the FO when we leave." Getting straight to the subject was to be apprehended with a Vulcan. But she wanted a conversation that would be more than just formal and straight to be point. She wanted to feel this could be a new adventure. A new opportunity for experiences. "You will have my answer before that then... A Defiant-class ship is a nice ship. it is one of them most useful and powerful ship in the fleet. Yet, an hydroponic, or holodeck are always nice to have. But that I could adapt. If I may ask sir, can you tell more about you?" "I expect only the best effort from those under my command. I have rules and ways I wish things to be, but I also want my senior staff to be free to express their ideas and opinions, even if they differ from my own." Directly to the point and just the basics. There were things resume couldn't reveal and this was one. If you have based your judgment on the specie, you would have judged Sanok as a very rational and logical person. However, when you looked over some comments made and some information rather difficult to get, Sanok was less "typical" than you could have expected. The truth was probably somewhere in the middle. Only real experience would allow Ayehla to get to know and understand who Sanok was and how he worked. She had expected to be turned off by the kind of conversation you could expect with a Vulcan. Vulcan were not known for socializing. Yet, this also created opportunities. She was already thinking that, if Sanok was not the kind of CO to talk a lot with his crew, this would actually open the door for Ayehla to take upon her shoulder that responsibility. On the USS Titanic, both the CO and FO liked to socialize, so the opportunity was less present. "What do you want to accomplish in Starfleet? What is your motive to be here?" she asked. She knew Sanok would probably not like to be asked question, but it was important she knew to make the best decision she could. Sanok realized he wasn't going to get away with speaking as little about himself as possible. He supposed Zyahn being inquisitive was a good thing. He didn't really know that for certain, since his time as FO on the Rose was when Ben Soma was captain. They had served together from the beginnings of their careers and had become close friends. Sanok already knew his captain, inside and out. "I am in Starfleet to serve, to learn, to discover, but most importantly, to help. My goal is to be all that I can become." Sanok hoped that would satisfy Zyahn. In any case, it was time to get to why he had asked her to meet him on the observation deck. "Lieutenant, I would like to take you on board the Starfire so you can she the ship." Again, right to the point. Nodding, Sanok led the way. (reply none) (posted by Bob & Nick) ----- (Starbase 989, Starfire, Zyahn, Day 5, 1912) Ayehla and Sanok moved down the turbolift that lead to the docking port. As they moved closer, the line of the Defiant became more fluid. The disruptor cannons and the pulse-fire torpedo launchers were now visible, giving it much more teeth than from up the catwalk. For such a small ship, the Defiant had a lot to bite. In nature, it's not always the biggest of them that are the most dangerous. It wasn't as imposing as the Prometheus-class or Sovereign class. If you did not know where to look, it may have looked like a simple small cruiser. But it wasn't. That small ship was one of the most well-armed and strongest ship in the fleet. Her and Sanok entered the telescopic docking port which led to the head of the Defiant. She heard that in case of emergency, this little section could detach from the ship. It had only thruster, but it make it a more secure place for landing when crashing on a planet. On their left and right were the contingency cabins. The smell has something appealing. Everything was brand new, including the carpet. So both the freshness and the products own smells made him enjoyable. They took a short look into Cargo Bay 1 and 2 before going to check the shuttlebay. Something was odd with the place. A shuttlebay was always noisy, with the turntable and lift making noise as it moved up and down. Right now, there was absolutely no sound at all. They walked toward the first shuttle. A Defiant-class was too small to have a shuttle the size of a runabout. The small shuttles were brand new too. As she looked the first over, their was still missing a name beside the registry. They resumed their walk and turned right where the Main Computer Core was located. It was a nice piece of technology. From the look of it, it seemed to be the latest generations of computer core. It did looked different from the one on the USS Titanic. Then, they entered one of the crew quarters. The famous bunk-bed with so little room, intimacy was to be shared in pairs. That was one of the thing that she found the most annoying about the Defiant-class.... how much Starfleet had to sacrifice in term of comfort to allow such a small and powerful ship. Even a Klingon would complain it lack comfort, which would be no small symbols. "The Defiant-class is certainly the paragon of own sacrifice for the better good." Sanok did not say a word. Yet, his facial expression, especially his look, had something mysterious. The kind of face bad poker players have when they got pocket aces. Not the kind of expression you would anticipate from a Vulcan. They continued their walk towards the turbolift and stopped on deck 2. Then, they turned left and entered main engineering. Here it was, the new generation of Defiant warp core. She had never seen a warp core quite like it. Rather than having the usual cylindric form, there was some new pattern into the warp core lines that seemed to make no sense. An engineer was present, so she decided to ask. "The Warp Core has a strange shape". The engineer smiled. "As you probably know, warp core efficiency is mostly determined by its length. A Defiant-class is only three decks high, so they were limited. Those shapes you see are a way starfleet warp core designers found to increase the warp core length without increasing it. This new warpcore has the length equivalent of a six deck ships. There are also several new technologies that also contribute to improve the Defiant warp core efficiency. The Defiant can now stand a complete year standard mission without problem. It won't be stuck to a starbase as much as it was used to" explained the engineer. ~Nice work~ she thought. They then resumed their visit, looking one by one the transporter room, the mess hall, the medicals/science bay and sickbay. All were rather small in size, but still of a size decent enough for the very small crew. The Mess Hall seemed more like a small cantina than a place to rest and enjoy the view....it had no view, As for sickbay, it was equipped with the minimum equipment to do most of the surgery, but she doubted in case of a very special treatment or injuries or sickness, they will have the necessary equipment to do it here. Not without mentioning, the medical crew was probably of 2 to 3 officers maximum. They returned to the turbolift and headed to deck 1. The first room on the right was the Captain's ready room. It was of a more than decent size. They stopped at the the next crew quarters. The room was the same size that the one they had seen on deck 3, but with a notable difference. The upper bed was retractable, and became a place to store objects. It made for a slightly better officer quarters. At least, they didn't had to share it with someone else. She also realized there was washroom connected to the quarters. They had to share it with the neighbor quarter, but it was still better to share a washroom with one other person than the rest of the crew. She had been used to have a single huge washroom to be shared by hundred people when she was in the marine. They didn't had the place, nor the time to wait for all the men and transgender species to leave, There was no way to accommodate every gender and specie with their own washing time. That was the bottom line of intimacy. Then, they walked on the bridge. It was larger than it seemed on pictures. Yet, it was close enough to give the feelings you can hear someone else whisper. It was certainly a compact bridge, with all computers located near one another. Even the Ops console at the back was quite close to the Captain seat. Now she could understand why the Defiant didn