This compile concludes Days 6, 7, 8 and 15 ================================== ================================== Mission: Where Fools Fear to Tread Day 6 Stardate:2408.11.26 ================================== ================================== (USS Boudicca - Deck 19, Gym - ACEO Ens.(Jg.) Anton Gesar - 0530) Anton was putting away his towel and some of his workout gear. It was always his belief that the best way to start a work day was with good excersise. He slept well, the excitement of spending his first night on the ship overshadowed by his axhaustion from the days activities. He woke up feeling refreshed, and now that he was done with his workout he could not wait to get started. (Reply any) (Posted by Oleg Kislyuk) ********* (USS Boudicca-Qulaetha Vorenda- ACMO Ensign (jg) Hawkeye Dolphine- 0535) As Hawkeye walked into the Vorenda, He saw Cmdr. ManyHorses sitting at a table by the window. He walked over and addressed the Cmdr. ”Cmdr ManyHorses” Hawkeye addressed ”thank you for meeting with me sir” he said as he sat with the MCO. (Reply ManyHorses) “ I wanted to finish The conversation from the other day. I meant no disrespect with my response in sickbay. I simply wanted to clarify what the meaning of the request for the awayteam to meet in sickbay. It was meant as a health and saftey breifing. It was never my intention to bypass the chain of command, or to assume that I was in charge of the away team. (Reply ManyHorses) (posted by Ben) ******* (USS Boudicca-Qulaetha Vorenda- M-CO Cdr. Jerome ManyHorses & SPC Cy Tudor - 0536) Jerome had been sitting at a table by the portal since 0530, nursing a large mug of white tea and honey while he waited for Ensign Dolphine to join him, and staring out at space, lost in his own thoughts. He noticed the reflection of the doctor approaching him and turned just as Dolphine addressed him and thanked him for meeting with him. Dolphine sat down and Jerome raised a hand to let the waiter know that he was ready to order, having already told him he would do so, when the young man had come to the table shortly after he had sat down, and he had ordered the white tea to sip while he waited. ManyHorses listened as the doctor explained once again that he had intended no disrespect neither had he assumed he was in charge of the away team. Cy Tudor came to the table and waited politely until Jerome looked up at the young man after giving the doctor a nod and holding up one finger to show he would respond in a minute. "I'll have some of that wonderful sausage Arania makes with three eggs scrambled, a big helping of those mushroom type things and two slices of rye bread toast, oh!" Jerome slid the half full mug towards Cy, "and refill of white tea with honey please." Cy gave the handsome native man a big, dimpled smile showing his even, white teeth, pressed the appropriate code keys on the PADD he held and looked at the other officer expectantly for his breakfast order. (Reply Dolphine) Once Cy had left them ManyHorses spoke. "Really doctor there was no need to explain again, I do believe you had it covered at the time. Now why don't we forget about that and enjoy our breakfast. You can tell me what you think of the ship and the crew members you have met since you came aboard and what your goals are for the future." (reply Dolphine, any) (posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca-Qulaetha Vorenda- ACMO Ensign(jg) Hawkeye Dolphine- 0539) Cy gave the handsome native man a big, dimpled smile showing his even, white teeth, pressed the appropriate code keys on the PADD he held and looked at the other officer expectantly for his breakfast order. "'I"ll have the same as the Cmdr, with one exception. Make mine white toast instead of rye. And could I have an unsweetend Ice tea, no lemon. Please" Once Cy had left them ManyHorses spoke. "Really doctor there was no need to explain again, I do believe you had it covered at the time. Now why don't we forget about that and enjoy our breakfast. You can tell me what you think of the ship and the crew members you have met since you came aboard and what your goals are for the future." " The Boudicca is a fine ship Cmdr. When I first requested assignments I will be honest, she wasn't my first choice. Though since I've been on board and met most of the senior staff, I've come to be happy that I was posted to the Boudicca. I look forward to spending my tour of duty here. For the most part I haven't had any major run ins with any of the crew I've met, though I'm sure after my passionate outburst in the staff meeting, Soome of the senior staff may think I am too reckless. I'm still tasting the boot polish from that meeting." "As for my goals in the future, I'm a Dr. by trade. I would be content serving as a Chief Medical Officer on board a ship. Don't get me wrong Cmdr, I wouldn' t mind some time in the future dipping my hand into command, but right now I'm happy being a Dr. Maybe some day, when I've gotten settled in my professional life, I might consider settling down, but right now I plan to enjoy my time on board." (Reply ManyHorses iyw) (Posted By Ben) *********** (USS Boudicca-Qulaetha Vorenda- M-CO Cdr. Jerome ManyHorses - 0541) With the waiter gone on his quest to bring them breakfast, the doctor began by telling Jerome that the Boudicca wasn't his first choice to serve on but since serving aboard her and meeting most of the senior staff, he had become happy to be there and was looking forward to spending his tour of duty there. ".... For the most part I haven't had any major run ins with any of the crew I've met, though I'm sure after my passionate outburst in the staff meeting, Some of the senior staff may think I am too reckless. I'm still tasting the boot polish from that meeting." Jerome chuckled softly as Ensign Dolphine continued to tell him of his goals for the future, stating that he'd be content serving as a Chief Medical Officer on board a ship, although he wouldn't mind being a command officer some time in the future, when he'd settled into his professional life. "....but right now I plan to enjoy my time on board." "Excellent philosophy doctor! I agree this is a fine ship with an even finer crew, I shall miss both when it is time for me to leave." Jerome replied, his head lifting as he saw Cy Tudor approaching bearing a large tray with their orders on it and gave the waiter a welcoming smile. ManyHorses' stomach growled in anticipation of being fed as the young man placed their orders before them, bid them 'bon appetite' and left them to it. Jerome said a quiet prayer of thanks to the Great Manito for the fine meal, before he took up his knife and fork and tucked eagerly into his breakfast. (Reply Dolphine iyw) (Posted By Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Sickbay - ACMO Ensign Jahlen - 0601) Often Jahlen felt as if she should just claim one of the biobeds for herself and take up residence in the Sickbay because she spent so much of her time there, but she really didn't mind. During what she now called 'before Tollian' times, it was because she didn't have any close friends to spend time with. Then Tollian had come along and she'd spent much less time in Sickbay or the Research labs, choosing to be with him. Gradually she'd spent more and more of her off time in his company and had been happy, but now circumstances had changed. His growing alienation towards her since receiving his transfer orders, she realized, was a reaction on his part that was his way of coping with the upcoming separation, something that would lessen the pain. Her way of coping was to immerse herself once more into her work. She had been in Sickbay since 0500 and spent some time in the Research labs. Sickbay was quiet, gamma shift was still on duty and she'd just returned to the main area to get herself a drink when the doors swished open and a Dentarian look-alike ambled in. Having done his surgery and noting his uniform, Jahlen knew it was Lieutenant Trei. Trei walked up to Dr. Jahlen. "Lieutenant(SG) Trei reporting for the alterations as ordered sir. Where do you want me." "Any empty biobed will do, Lieutenant, just activate the privacy screen and get..." She was about to say get naked but decided it might be just a little inappropriate. "Get undressed and on the bed, a nurse will be along to prepare you for surgery and I'll have you back to normal in no time." (Reply Trei iyw, any) (posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Main Engineering - ACEO Ens.(Jg.)Anton Gesar - 0615) After grabbing a shower and a quick breakfast, Anton arrived at Main Engineering to verify that all systems were ready for the days activities. Sitting down at his station he checked his messages. There was a message from ManyHorses indicating that the away mission was being scrapped. Anton felt somewhat relieved that his work the previous day kept him away from sickbay. It would have been unfortunate to have gone through the alteration procedure only to have to go through the removal without getting to go down to the planet. No matter, it was time to look things over and wait for Lorimar and the orders to start. (Reply any) (Posted by Oleg Kislyuk) ********* (USS Boudicca- Sickbay- ACMO Ensign(jg) Hawkeye Dolphine - 0715) After finishing breakfast with Cmdr ManyHorses, Hawkeye ade his way towards sickbay. When he entered, he noticed two persons in sickbay, He quickly identified them as Lt Trei and Capt Rivers. They had both reported for the removal of the alterations. Hawkeye first approached Capt Rivers. "Ma'am when you are ready we can begin." (Reply Rivers iyw) With that being said he instructed the duty nurse to assist the Captain to the surgical bay. He went to the sonic sink and scrubbed in for the procedure. He read the readout from the bio bed and proceeded to begin the reconstruction. Surgey would take him approx. 25 minutes to complete. He instructed the administration of a sedative and began the work of turning Capt Rivers back into her original form. As he completed the captains surgery he had her sent to recovery. He checked the list to see who was next, after Trei. (respond Rivers iyw) (Posted by Ben) ********* (USS Boudicca - Sickbay - ACMO Ensign Jahlen - 0931) For some reason, returning some of the away team people to their original looks took longer than it did to alter them originally, especially the non-human variety, Jahlen decided it had something to do with it being quicker and easier just to shave off someone's hair and take out their wrinkles, spots and ridges, than it was to put them back. She hadn't long finished with Lieutenant Trei and had finally got the drink she'd been gasping for since 0600 hours as she sat in the CMO's office, when another 'Dentarian' ambled into Sickbay. Fortunately the Alpha shift duty nurse immediately led her to a biobed and began the preparation procedures allowing Jahlen to finish her coveted glass of iced sparkling water at her leisure. "Putting all those spots back in their proper places is going to take a while!" She told herself, sighing softly. It didn't look like she'd get back to her beloved Research labs any time soon. After giving the nurse time to finish, Jahlen popped the glass into the recycler and readied herself for another operation before walking through the holographic privacy screen to greet Ensign Rel who was half asleep. She placed a reassuring hand on the woman's shoulder. "Don't you worry, Ayslin, I know exactly where every individual spot has to go!" (Reply Trei iyw, Rel iyw, any) (Posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - QV - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1200) Detron walked into QV for some lunch after he was restored to his normal appearance. Detron took a seat at the bar and ordered a glass of Earl Grey to start. (Reply Ariana) (Posted by Edward) ********* (USS Boudicca - QV - Bar Manager Arania - 1201) Detron walked into the lounge and took a seat at the bar. Arania tilted her head at him in query and gave him a warm smile that reached her sparkling green eyes. When he asked for a glass of Earl Grey to start, she knew he'd come to get some lunch so she put a menu on the counter when she brought him his tea. "Is good to see you again Detron, I am seeing you are you so suspect there is no away team?" (reply Detron, any) She gave a nod and patted his shoulder, "disappointing it must be, I now away missions are much desired." She clucked her tongue in sympathy. "Never mind friend, a good lunch will take your mind from it." Turning, she hurried into the kitchen and quickly returned with a bowl of the crunchy beetles he liked, setting it down on the counter so he could help himself while debating what to have for lunch. (Reply Trei) (Posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - QV - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1205) Ariana asked if Detron was in his normal appearance the away mission must have been scrapped. Ariana tenderly patted Detron on the shoulder to comfort him. Though he really didn't need comforting per se, he sighed to emulate that emotion. "Yes the away mission was canceled. I believe it affected Captain Rivers much more that it did for me. I felt for her really. The beetles will work for an appetizer. I will have a nice built sandwich and some chips (french fries) with a side of Blood Pie. I am preparing to endure the Klingon Rite of Ascension." Detron enjoyed the beetles while he waited for his order. ~This should make her curious.~ (Reply Ariana) (Posted by Edward) ******** (USS Boudicca - Qulaetha Vorenda - Bar Manager Arania - 1206) Ariana tenderly patted Detron on the shoulder to comfort him and he sighed softly as if he was feeling disappointed. He told her the away mission had been canceled but felt that Captain Rivers was more disappointed than he was, causing Arania to think that she would send the captain a nice gift hamper of goodies, surely that would make her feel better. "The beetles will work for an appetizer. I will have a nice built sandwich and some chips (french fries) with a side of Blood Pie. I am preparing to endure the Klingon Rite of Ascension." Arania gave a nod and a little bow then disappeared in to the kitchen to get his food. A few minutes later she returned and put it down in front of him then took the empty dish that had held the crunchy, spicy beetles. She remained standing on the other side of the counter as he began to eat his meal. "Soooo," she started and continued when his eyes met hers. "What is this thing, this errr....Rite of Ascension? Are you going to learn to fly?" She'd never heard of Klingons actually flying but then again she didn't know all that there was to know about this dimension's species, or even her own dimension's for that matter. For all she knew perhaps certain select individuals could actually learn how to fly, stranger things could happen, hadn't they just met a race of being who had wings? (Reply Detron, any) (Posted by Sal) ********** (USS Boudicca - QV - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1210) Detron saw Ariana go into the kitchen and return with his order. She quickly took the empty bowl of beetles then came back standing in front of him intently. Ariana began to ask about the Rite of Ascension as Detron expected she would do. "Sooo what is this Rite of Ascension? Will that give you the ability to fly?" Detron let out a hearty Klingon laugh at Ariana's logic on the name of the ritual. Detron half thought she would come up with that kind of logic since we just made contact with a winged species. Though the that species did not fly. Detron explained. "It is not a ritual to allow an individual to fly. It is a spiritual ritual for Klingons to allow their spirits to pass into Klingon heaven or Stovakore. It is a very painful ritual involving pain sticks. It is for a warrior to prove they are worthy of Stovakore. You are invited to the event if you can handle the concept." ~lets see what questions she has now.~ (Reply Ariana) (Posted by Edward) ******** (USS Boudicca - QV - Bar Manager Arania - 1211) Detron let out a hearty Klingon laugh at Ariana's question and explained that it was a spiritual ritual for Klingons to allow their spirits to pass into Klingon heaven that was called Stovakore. He told her it was a very painful ritual that involved something called pain sticks. ".....It is for a warrior to prove they are worthy of Stovakore. You are invited to the event if you can handle the concept." Arania couldn't help it, she felt a little disappointed - pain instead of flying didn't sound like anything she'd enjoy but if she wasn't mistaken, Detron looked quite eager to participate in the barbaric Rite. She had rather hoped that other people could be taught to fly too, it was something she'd always wanted to do for as long as she could remember, but the closest she'd ever got was in her dreams, dreams where she soared like a bird high over the land. ~Why anyone would want to inflict pain on another person purposefully or receive it is most strange?~ The prospect was inconceivable to her and rather horrifying. Her eyes widened with alarm. "I wish not to be poked with pain sticks!!" She exclaimed vehemently, backing away from him as if he had the Torelian Rabies and shaking her head vigorously. (reply Detron) "Ooohhhh, I see. Scared me you did!" She replied and hefted a big sigh of relief very glad to learn that she wouldn't have to endure any pain. "So who does the poking with sticks and who will be there?" She asked him, now intrigued to find out all about this strange, barbaric ritual. (Reply Detron) (Posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - QV - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1215) Detron wasn't surprised to see Ariana jump back at the concept of pain. Detron was a bit concerned over her last expression though. He tried to calm her. "You will not be subjected to pain during the ritual. You are to watch me go through a gauntlet of holo warriors jabbing me with pain sticks. Good friends and family are to attend the ritual to applaud my spirit rising to the next level. It is Barbaric, but to a Klingon warrior it is to celebrate the spirit rising to the next level. You will not feel any pain except for empathic pain from watching me go through the ritual. I consider you a good friend. Dorga and her children are in that category as well." (Reply Ariana) (Posted by Edward) ******* (USS Boudicca - QV - Bar Manager Arania - 1216) "So who does the poking with sticks and who will be there?" She asked him, now intrigued to find out all about this strange, barbaric ritual. Detron explained in a little more detail that he would be the one to be subjected to pain by several holo warriors - Klingons she assumed, who would be jabbing him with pain sticks. Apparently his good friends and family were to attend the ritual to applaud his spirit rising to the next level. He agreed with her summation that it was a barbaric ritual, but he told her that for a Klingon warrior it was a celebration of the spirit rising to the next level. "....You will not feel any pain except for empathic pain from watching me go through the ritual. I consider you a good friend. Dorga and her children are in that category as well." Arania was pleased that Detron considered her as much a friend to him as the daunting Dorga was whom she knew was also half Klingon and surely shared Detron's acceptance and pride over the Rite of Ascension. She gave him a beaming smile and short bow. "If it will honor you for my attendance I will then also honored be, to attend your Ascension Rite for I am pleased you are my friend." She stated courteously, "but it will pain me to see you pained in such a way." (Reply Detron) (Posted by Sal) ******* (USS Boudicca - QV - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1220) Detron was pleased to hear Ariana will share his honor of the ritual. Detron suspected that Ariana will be making many faces of empathic reaction to his pain but that is to be expected. "Thank you foe accepting the invitation to share in my honor. It is possible for you to feel some uplifting from the ritual as well." Detron finished his lunch and waved at Ariana as he left QV. The next thing to do was inform Dorga of the ritual and see if the kids could endure the shock. Detron went to the holodeck for some endurance training before informing Dorga. (Reply Ariana iyw) (Posted by Edward) ******** (USS Boudicca - Dorga's Quarters - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1800) Detron stood outside Dorga's quarters and press the door chime. "Dorga it is TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei here to discuss a personal matter with you about the Rite of Ascension." Detron waited for the door to open. (Reply Dorga) (Posted by Edward) ******* (USS Boudicca - 2O's Quarters - 2O/CCOUNS/Lt.Cdr. Dorga 'cha Nooras - 1800.5) "Here's your supper you two, come on and get it!" Dorga called softly to the twins who were in their rooms doing their homework. The pounding of feet as they raced down the corridor almost drowned out the sound of the door annunciator, but Dorga's keen ears heard it and as the twins settled at the table, she walked over to open the door and heard Detron on the other side informing her he wanted to discuss the Rite of Ascension. ~ I wonder what he needs to know. ~ She thought as she pressed the key to open the door. "Come in." She said, stepping aside so he could and closed the door once he was through them. "Have you had supper yet?" (reply Detron) "We're just about to have ours, why don't you join us? At least have a drink." Dorga invited. "Yes Uncle Detron, come and sit down with us." Rivers called out, "we miss you when you're not around." Parami had his mouth full so he just nodded in agreement. (Reply Detron) (Posted by Sal) ******* (USS Boudicca - Dorga's Quarters - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1802) Detron entered Dorga's quarters and took a seat next to Rivers. He accepted the offer to stay for dinner and asked for some Earl Gray. "I will stay for dinner. I have a matter to discuss with you and the kids. It involves the Rite of Ascension." Detron reached over and tickled Rivers in her chair. Detron loved the kids so much it hurt so he didn't know how they would handle seeing him in pain. He would take that chance. (Reply Dorga and kids) (Posted by Edward) ******* (USS Boudicca - Dorga's Quarters - 2O/CCOUNS/Lt.Cdr. Dorga 'cha Nooras - 1805) Detron took a seat next to Rivers who grabbed his arm and hugged it. He asked for some Earl Grey tea causing Dorga's nose to wrinkle jusssst a wee bit as she'd never acquired the taste for it but she respected the fact that Detron was particularly fond of it, which is why she'd programmed her recycler to dispense it. "I will stay for dinner. I have a matter to discuss with you and the kids. It involves the Rite of Ascension." Parami's ears perked up and so did his body as he straightened up in the chair and looked eagerly at Uncle Detron with bright, inquiring eyes because one day he hoped he would also be able to go through that Rite and wanted to learn all he could about it. What he really wanted was to actively participate in a ritual. He had watched a few on the holovids but it was never the same as actually participating. Detron reached over and tickled Rivers in her chair causing her to squirm and giggle. She swatted at his hands to make him stop. Dorga brought his tea and his meal and placed them before him. "Now then Detron, you know I like my kids to be well mannered, especially at the dining table!" She admonished her friend but her tone was light. She sat down at her place at the head of the table. "So what is it you want to discuss with us?" She asked as she forked a mouthful of food into her mouth, watching Detron with curiosity. (Reply Detron) (Posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Dorga's Quarters - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1806) Detron took a sip from his Earl Gray and looked at Parami eager to learn about the Rite of Ascension. "I have come here to ask you and the kids to share my honor of enduring the Rite of Ascension. The Rite of Ascension involves walking a gauntlet of holo warriors jabbing one with pain sticks. The ritual is to lift the spirit to another level and make it worthy of Stovakore. I will endure the ritual to serve two purposes. The first is to serve the Klingon spiritual purpose and the second is to serve an honorable purpose for myself to feel worthy of command rank coming soon. To answer Parami's unspoken question, He can participate in the ritual as far as Dorga will allow him to do so." (Reply Dorga and kids) (Posted by Edward) *********** (USS Boudicca - 2O's Quarters - 2O/CCOUNS/Lt.Cdr. Dorga 'cha Nooras & family - 1807) Parami was all ears as he listened to Detron tell them that he had come to ask them all to share his honor during his Rite of Ascension. He told them that Parami could participate as much as his Mother would allow. The boy looked at his mother, face alive with excitement. "I don't suppose I can have a pain stick, can I?" Parami asked hopefully. Rivers had listened politely, not at all offended or disappointed by not being included in the offer or participating as much as Parami. Logically she could see no gain in undergoing so much pain even for spiritual purposes, still it was nice of Uncle Detron to think about inviting them all to the ritual, but she was more interested in her dinner now that their big friend had explained the reason for his visit. Dorga gave Parami the evil eye. "Of course you can't have a pain stick, boy! Are you a warrior?" She looked over to Detron. "I will be honored to attend as will Parami, I think Rivers will need a little more time to make up her mind about it." Parami looked very disappointed as he'd have liked to poke Detron with a big stick of pain and he lowered his head, pretending he was more interested in his food like his sister; he began playing with his food, moving it from one place to another and every now and then taking a little bite. Suddenly he looked up, despondency short lived as a thought came to his mind. "So what exactly can Rivers and I do then and when is it going to happen?" (Reply Detron) (Posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Dorga's Quarters - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1808) Detron heard Dorga scold Parimi telling him he is not a warrior so he would not be able to jab Detron with a pain stick. Detron looked at Rivers's expression as if she was indifferent about the ritual. Detron thought for a moment before continuing, "It would be wise son that you not handle the pain stick and wait at the end to celebrate my spirit rising. I would ask Dorga to inform all senior staff to attend the ritual in 3 days time at Holodeck 1 at 19.00. If Rivers will have a problem watching me in pain, I understand if she will not be there. If Parimi wants to, he can congratulate me in Klingon at the end. The ritual will be in Klingon so you may have to translate what is said. Thank you for dinner Dorga." (Reply Dorga and Kids) (Posted by Edward) ******** (USS Boudicca - Dorga's Quarters - 2O/CCOUNS/Lt.Cdr. Dorga 'cha Nooras - 1809) Parami was noticeably disappointed that he wouldn't be able to use a painstick and he picked at his meal dejectedly until Detron spoke to him about it, saying it he could celebrate Detron's spirit rising at the end and congratulate him in Klingon then. Rivers could attend or not, that was her decision. Detron asked Dorga to let the senior staff know about it and gave her the time and place and thanked her for dinner. She gave him a smile and her one curt nod in return. "Of course, consider it done and you know you're welcome here any time." She told him and rose from the table to escort him to the door. The twins took this as permission to leave the table and they began clearing away the leftover food and utensils while Dorga and Detron bid their farewells. Once Detron had left, Dorga made a note of the time and day in her schedule planner - 2408.11.29 - The Rite of Ascension Ceremony for Detron at 1900 hours in Holodeck 1, and left herself a note to inform the senior staff of it first thing in the morning. (Reply Detron iyw) (Posted by Sal) ============================= ============================= Mission: Where Fools Fear to Tread Days 7, 8 and 15 ============================= ============================= POST INDEX: =============== Day 7 Stardate: 2408.11.27 =============== (USS Boudicca - Crew Quarters - Crewman Shadow to Sretalles & Lieutenant Mistytail of Eiros - 0530) (USS Boudicca - 2O's Quarters - 2O/CCOUNS/Lt.Cdr. Dorga 'cha Nooras & CTAC/SEC Lt. Detron Trei - 0600) (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 3 - Con/Ops Ensign Micheal Orion - 0730) (USS Boudicca - Cargo Bay 1 - ACEO - Ens.(Jg.)Anton Gesar - 1113) (USS Boudicca - Cargo Bay 1 - ACEO - Ens.(Jg.)Anton Gesar - 1205) (USS Boudicca – Main Engineering – CEO Lorimar 1206) (USS Boudicca – CEO’s Office – CEO Lorimar – 1258) (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - ACEO Ens.(Jg) Anton Gesar - 1300) (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 1 - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1300) (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - CEO Lorimar - 1301) (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - ACEO Ens(Jg.) Anton Gesar - 1301.5) (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - CEO Lorimar - 1301) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - M-CO Cdr. Jerome ManyHorses - 1355) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Conn/Ops Ensign Micheal Orion - 1357) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO - Captain Susan Rivers - 1400) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO Captain Susan Rivers and M-CO Cdr. Jerome ManyHorses - 1401) (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 1 - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1500) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO - Captain Susan Rivers - 1900) (USS Boudicca - Stolev's personal quarters - CO Captain Susan Rivers and FO Commander Sasha Stolev - 1910) =============== Day 8 Stardate: 2408.11.28 =============== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO, Captain Susan Rivers and 2O/COUNS Lt Cmdr Dorga cha'Nooras - Day 8 - 0745) =============== Day 15 Stardate: 2408.12.05 =============== (Shonora Ellian, Command Deck - Marshal Torias Wersh - 1200) =================================================== (USS Boudicca - Crew Quarters - Crewman Shadow to Sretalles & Lieutenant Mistytail of Eiros - 0530) Shadow was startled to receive a deep space communication. She wasn't quite sure she really knew anyone off ship who would want to talk to her. "Yeoman to Sretalles here." She said, answering the comm.. "Why hello Yeoman," a familiar grey furred face said with her tail looping behind her. She held it up so Shadow could see, it was the equivalent of putting one's face on camera. "And how is my favourite Sioavaon finding Starfleet after two years?" "Two years?" She asked, confused to see Mistytail and her brain wasn't quite working yet. Four months in basic, seven months on the Starbase and.. oh! "Oh!" She said as Mistytail patiently waited for her to do the math. "Two SIAOVAN years." The two felenoids looked at each other for a few heartbeats. Mistytail was wearing a scarf in the colours of the counseling department and it was held in place by her rank pips and department badge. "I went back to Siaovo, you know." The older woman hid her age well, her fur looked rougher but her naturally silver fur hid any graying around the muzzle. She tilted her head to one side, "And?" she prompted. Shadow chewed on her whiskers, "And it was not home." Mistytail was too much a lady and a counsellor to sing 'I told you so's. "And you have found your home?" Shadow shrugged in a very Loren-esk manner. "I don't know if I will ever find my *home* but I have found my *family*." Mistytail's tail waved the difference aside as neglible. "And any plans for the future my kit?" Shadow made a face, her own mother had long ago abandoned her as hopeless, she wasn't quite sure she needed a mother, but Mistytail seemed to adopt everyone furless or not. At least she wasn't one of those hovering type matrons who watched every bite of food you did or didn't take and asked you about your bathroom habits. "I want more." Shadow said firmly. This seemed to surprise Mistytail, "More?" "More. I want to see more places, I want to talk to more people, I want to help heal rifts, I want to sing the songs of the stars and learn of worlds and their inhabitants. I want to sing of the people I meet to the people that should meet them. I want to see the universe and dance in its song. I want to .. I want more." She finished a little lamely. Mistytail's tail twitched from side to side for a moment, "I had thought to recommend you transfer to the counseling department, both our peoples tend to go into security or counseling, but.. I would think the diplomatic corps is what is calling to you." Shadow frowned. "How could I be a diplomat?" She probably didn't even realize how many habits and expressions she'd picked up off her best friend. Mistytail laughed, a sound that seemed all sorts of strange coming from the furred counsellor. It seemed Shadoww wasn't the only one corrupted by the furless around her. Her tail looped itself in delight, "By learning and a lot of it!" Shadow's tail twitched back and forth, "Would I have to leave the Boudicca?" It was the counsellor's turn to tilt her head to one side, "Everyone leaves camp." "It is not time yet." Shadow said firmly. Mistytail had several emotions flit across her whiskers, "Well, when you're ready, let me know." She finally said before changing the subject to ask about Shadow's lovelife, a subject designed to embarrass any teen. "I don't understand Parrr'Z at *all!*" she moaned before launching into the complex explanation that was their relationship; well, from her side anyway. Parrr'Z just seemed to be in it for the romps and hunts. Mistytail seemed to be doing her best to keep her tail straight, something probably easy for the Eeiaouns who only seemed to use tail expression around their cousins, as she tried to sort out the mess that was Shadow's social life. (Reply none) (Posted by Lorna) ******** (USS Boudicca - 2O's Quarters - 2O/CCOUNS/Lt.Cdr. Dorga 'cha Nooras & CTAC/SEC Lt. Detron Trei - 0600) The children were still snuggled in their beds, she'd peeked in on them just like she did every morning when she first got up. They looked quite cherubic as they lay there lost in their dreams, fingers or feet twitching like sleeping puppies, you'd think they never got in to trouble, that they were perfect angels. ~ Wonder what happens when they wake up to change that? ~ Dorga shook her head and smiling, headed to 'the head' before she headed to her computer console. She had told Detron she would send out the invitations this morning, but as she sat down to do so a thought came to her. ~ Surely it would be better if he waited until we're all on shore leave! That way he's more likely to get all his friends able to attend, while we're still working he'd be lucky to get half of us. ~ She determined to first send him a message with the suggestion he wait a few days until they were docked at Laatstekans Station and her reasons why and requested the computer to make sure he got it upon waking if he wasn't yet awake. With luck he'd be up already after all he was half Klingon and they had much in common. That done, she went for her sonic shower, hoping there would be a reply accepting her advice when she returned. Detron woke to the sound of a incoming message. He sat at the computer and played the message. The message was from Dorga suggesting to move the ritual until they were at the space station. Detron didn't have a problem with that and composed a message back saying the second day at the station was fine with him at the same time and same place. Detron sent the message and went to take a sonic shower. (reply none) (posted by Edward & Sal) ********* (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 3 - Con/Ops Ensign Micheal Orion - 0730) Orion felt comforted by the tight confines that encased him, has deft hand moved over the controls of the fighter. He was a lone wolf out in the darkness of space. Silently he crept though the asteroid field that offered him cover and masked his sensor read out. The enemy was playing a game Orion knew far to well. Use the asteroids to mask your approach, to attack a larger craft. Then the large rocks become shields allowing the more maneuverable fighters multiple firing angles, by the time a large vessel could lock on and return fire the fighters would be gone back behind the safety of the rock. Here he was sent to flush them out. He cut his impulse engines, drifting though space relying on thrusters alone. To move his craft though space. Drifting around a large asteroid his sensor came to life with one, two, no five enemy pings, their hot impulse engines giving them away. Orion knew he would get only one shot, before giving away his position. His hands graced the controls in front of him, over to the weapon controls. Space was filled with the bright lights of pulse phaser fire, as his fighter pulled energy from it's reactor to the impulse engines. Orion's fighter came to life following his fire. The enemy fighter wing was caught off gaurd, fighter pitched a rolled trying to dodge the incoming fire, has shields were raised in defense. Pulse phasers cut into two of the fighters as Orion straffed their formation. fire flashing against there raising shields, before they failed and exploded into a brilliant orange and red light. The other three fighters fell behind Orion and lit up the night with streams of phaser fire cutting though the darkness. Orion dodged, ducked, rolled to keep the enemy fire at bay. Alarms flashed in =/\= in comming enemy topeado =/\= the computer announced into the helm of Orion flight suit. =/\= multiple enemy taget locks indicated. "Computer give me a tageting solution on the enemy torpeado. " The power in Orion power shifted and flexed though the inpulse engines has Orion spun the fighter on her centeral axis bring him to face the enemy. HIs computer targeted torpeado has Orion unleased hell and detonated the warhead with phaser fire. He grinned has his computers gained his target lock on the nearest fighter, as the enemy formation broke to dodge the blast from the warhead. Pulse phasers flashed again, has the enemy fighter entered a series of rolls to throw of the targeting computer. Phaser fire hit the enemy fighter in a dozen place causing it's shields to flash and dance. However two torpeadoes that followed the phaser fire would not be deined. The first slamming the shield, has if flashed then winked out of exsistance the second hitting the main section of fulsage, as the enemy fighter broke apart in a thounderous explosion. Orion glanced at his sensors again tring to pick out the last two fighters. =/\= multiple enemy contacts detected. =/\= the computer announced again. "How many?" was Orion's quick repond. =/\= ten new contacts =/\= "So thats twelve in total?" =/\= affirmative. =/\= Orion turned his fighter the way he came and kicked in a high burn as he tried to maneuver away from the on coming enemy advance. Five was tricky, twelve was suicide. Fighters fired lighting the sky and space with weapon fire and torpedo's. Many missed finding the surface of some rocky asteroid or another, has Orion's fighter darted to and fro using the rocks for cover. However there was just to much fire power and to many targeting angles to avoid them all. So his shields beginning to flash when hit, slowly drained =/\= Shields down to 80, 74,63, 49 percent. =/\= the computer counted down the last jump was caused by a lucky torpedo hit on one of his starboard wings the shield flashed a violent red. =/\= hull down to 75 percent. =/\= " Computer plot me a course to the largest, closest asteroid that our weapons can destroy. " =/\= Course plotted. =/\= "execute." He pushed his fighter closer to the asteroid, at full impulse burn, just meters from the surface, Which exploded behind his with weapon fire from the enemy ships, which dusted Orion's fighter with debris that chipped away his already weakened shield. He dived behind the large rock, giving himself a brief respite from the the enemies fire. He pulled his fighter though a high velocity bank and bringing him to face the asteroid he just passed. "Computer, unleash hell" Orion said matter-of-factly and his ship responded all weapons fired. Phasers lit space and the torpedoes tore into the unprotected rock with thunderous efficiency. He pounded the asteroid. =/\= Enemy fighter to breach target asteroid in 20 seconds. "Hold target." =/\= 15 second, phaser meltdown iminate. =/\= "Computer override computer safety protocals and countinue to fire." An area on the asteroid began to glow as constant phaser and torpeado fire pored into the newly build crator. =/\= Enemy breaching target, mutiple target locks detected. =/\= the computer updated him. "Hold possition and continue firing" He yelled in defiance at the computer. Then his phasers went dead the high heat from the prolonged use melting thier cores, and his last two torpeados streaked toward the asteroid. Orion prayed "Gods grant me your grace to die well..." The torpeadoes slammed into the asteriod in a near silent explosion, they breached the outter layer of the large rock and pentrated before detinating. Space fell silent, and all things seemed to stop. The explosion of the last two od Orion torpeadoes tore and ripped large fisures into the rock it glowed and bulged slighty before exploding into a shower of debry and large rocks were thrown. The twelve enemy fighters were engulfed by the explosion and pelted by stones as llarge as their ships were, and destroyed. The large explosion carried on and rolled thoughout the asteroid field, it was a long while before space fell silent again. When it did Orion let out a long breath, " Computer end simulation Orion-119 beta." Space disappered and Orion once again found himself alone in a small empty room. sweat pored from him and nearly saturated his flight suit. He barly realised it in the simulation. He checked the time, he had a enough time to get to bis room take a shower, get on a fresh uniform and report to the bridge. (posted by Matthew Locke) (reply none needed but always welcome.) ******* (USS Boudicca - Cargo Bay 1 - ACEO - Ens.(Jg.)Anton Gesar - 1113) Anton issued the command as he looked at and heard the now all too familiar shimmer of the transporter. They had been at this for a long time and he was starting to get a bit tired. Lieutenant Lorimar had put the Engineering team on a rotation schedule to operate and maintain the transporters. But Anton felt that he had a responsibility as ACEO. So he worked double shifts without telling the chief. Just then an alarm went off on his console and a few seconds later some sparks flew from the bottom of his console. Anton swung his hand to clear the smoke, somewhat annoyed. He had a feeling this might happen. Being very tired and seeing the end so close he pushed the transporter harder. One of the Engineering Officers approached as Anton punched in commands into the console to start the diagnostic procedure. "How bad is it?" the EO asked. "It looks like the primary energizing coils are fused," Anton sighed in frustration. Had he gotten more rest he might not have pushed the transporter so hard to finish quicker. Now he had to explain it to the chief. They had been working all the transformers pretty hard, but always made sure that they stopped before reaching the operational limit. Each time the phase and energizing coils approached critical temperature it took them longer to cool down. It was possible to operate the transporter with the coils at elevated temperatures. However, run the transporter a few times when the coils are too hot and they fuse. They had managed to keep the damage to the other transporters minor. Mostly small, easily replaceable components and circuits that either fused or failed to to stress and overheating, but this was a major repair. As soon as Anton gives Lorimar the status and repair list he's going to know how the damage occurred. "Ok then, I'll go get the parts and we can get...." "Don't worry about it," Anton interrupted, "I'll take care of it myself. Run a complete diagnostic on the Cargo Bay 2 transporter and send it to me asap." (posted by Oleg) ******** (USS Boudicca - Cargo Bay 1 - ACEO - Ens.(Jg.)Anton Gesar - 1205) Anton had completed the diagnostic on the Cargo Bay 1 transporters to see what else would have to be repaired. Having received the diagnostics from all the other teams he assembled it into a comprehensive report outlining what must be repaired, what parts will be necessary and estimated the man hours it would take to complete the repairs. "Gesar to Lieutenant Lorimar." (Reply Lorimar) "Hello Sir, I have the status report for the transporters" Reply Lorimar, Any) (Posted by Oleg Kislyuk) ********* (USS Boudicca – Main Engineering – CEO Lorimar 1206) Lorimar was supervising two of the duty engineers as they made some minor adjustments to the warp engine control software at a work station in the upper engineering gallery. “If we follow the updated specifications from fleet engineering,” he tapped the display on the console for emphasis, “we should be able tae increase reactant injector efficiency by aboot point zero four percent. Ah think –“ =^=Gesar to Lieutenant Lorimar.=^= He tapped his commbadge. “Lorimar, go ahead.” =^=Hello Sir, I have the status report for the transporters=^= Bob restrained an audible sigh; he’d already reviewed some of the reports and logs involving the operation, and was less than completely pleased with things. “Unless ye have something critical, ah’d like ye tae meet me in mah office at 1300.” (Reply Gesar, Any) (posted by Russ) ******* (USS Boudicca – CEO’s Office – CEO Lorimar – 1258) Bob finished reviewing the balance of the reports from senior Chiefs and engineering officers regarding the extended transporter operations. Most of it had gone exactly as planned… in fact, even better than might have been hoped. There were a couple of troubling aspects that he needed to sort out. He was hoping that Mr. Gesar might shed some light on those things. He rose from the desk and grabbed a mug of coffee from the office replicator and waited for Gesar to arrive. (Reply Gesar, Any) (Posted by Russ) ******** (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - ACEO Ens.(Jg) Anton Gesar - 1300) The doors to the CEO's office opened and Anton stepped in. He nodded toward the CEO, "Hello Sir." He extended the PADD he had been holding when he entered. "A detailed status report of the transporter systems. Most of the systems did not suffer any major damage and are nearly 100 percent operational. Except for the Cargo Bay 1 transporter system. The damage and the repairs are detailed in the report." (Reply Lorimar) (Posted by Oleg Kislyuk) ******** (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 1 - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 13.00) After some lunch at QV, Detron went to the Holodeck for setting up the Rite of Ascension. Detron accessed the computer. "Computer. Create a new program . Set up a gauntlet of holo warriors 4 facing each other on platforms with a lower walkway platform under the higher platforms. The lower platform will run the length of the higher platforms and end at receiving point for congratulations and interaction. The holo warriors will have 1 pain stick each and the platforms will be red in color. The holo warriors will be Klingon in full warrior dress. The holo warriors will respond to Klingon only. How long will that take to set up." The computer said, "It will be ready in 2 hours." Detron said, "Good. Save program as Rite of Ascension Trei 1." The computer acknowledged Detron's order and began creating the program. Detron left the holodeck to return when the program is ready. (Reply Any) (Posted By Edward) ******* (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - CEO Lorimar - 1301) The doors to the CEO's office opened and Anton stepped in. He nodded toward the CEO, "Hello Sir." He extended the PADD he had been holding when he entered. "A detailed status report of the transporter systems. Most of the systems did not suffer any major damage and are nearly 100 percent operational. Except for the Cargo Bay 1 transporter system. The damage and the repairs are detailed in the report." Lorimar didn't look up right away, as he knew who was here and what news he was bringing. He was, however, interested in an explanation. "Mister Gesar, ah've read all but your report on the matter, as you've just now brought it to me." He took the PADD in his hand and rapped the edge of it lightly on top of his desk before continuing. "Care tae hit the highlights for me before ah read this?" (Reply Gesar, room for more) Lorimar still hadn't asked him to sit down, and he studied Gesar's reaction to that intently. "The logs indicate that ye were operating the cargo bay transporter when it was damaged... and that ye refused relief repeatedly, and were working a double shift while there were plenty of rested and qualified operators available. Care tae explain that?" (Reply Gesar) He digested Gesar's reply before he spoke again. "Ensign, engineers in starfleet, and specifically on this ship hae a critical role in both daily operations and crisis situations. Will there be times when we are called on tae work untold hours straight, wie nae meaningful rest under desperate, impossible conditions? Of course there will. But mah point is this was *not* one of those times. We had plenty of staff tae make things work in the given timeframe. There will also be times when we will need tae push the ship and her systems to thier limits, and beyond. Again, this was *not* one of those times. The operation's duration had been carefully calculated and the time frame allowed for. The damage tae the transporter system was both avoidable, and unnecessary." He paused a moment then finished. "Ah'd better not hear of ye taking undue risks with the equipment, or yerself again, is that understood lad?" (Reply Gesar, room for more) (Posted by Russ) ******** (USS Boudicca - CEO's Office - ACEO Ens(Jg.) Anton Gesar - 1301.5) Lorimar didn't look up right away which made Anton feel that much more uneasy. "Mister Gesar," Lorimar began, "ah've read all but your report on the matter, as you've just now brought it to me." Lorimar took the PADD. "Care tae hit the highlights for me before ah read this?" "Uhh... Well sir, during the mission we were using the Cargo Transporter for...," Anton decided not to recite the mission. "Essentialy sir we pushed the transporter a bit too hard which resulted in the primary coils being fused." Anton waited for Lorimar to continue, which was made even more uneasy as he still had not asked him to sit down. "The logs indicate that ye were operating the cargo bay transporter when it was damaged... and that ye refused relief repeatedly, and were working a double shift while there were plenty of rested and qualified operators available. Care tae explain that?" "I don't really have an explanation sir. At the time it appeared like the right thing to do. I suppose I was too eager to impress with my... dedication." Lorimar waited a moment before replying, "Ensign, engineers in starfleet, and specifically on this ship hae a critical role in both daily operations and crisis situations. Will there be times when we are called on tae work untold hours straight, wie nae meaningful rest under desperate, impossible conditions? Of course there will. But mah point is this was *not* one of those times. We had plenty of staff tae make things work in the given timeframe. There will also be times when we will need tae push the ship and her systems to thier limits, and beyond. Again, this was *not* one of those times. The operation's duration had been carefully calculated and the time frame allowed for. The damage tae the transporter system was both avoidable, and unnecessary." He paused a moment then finished. "Ah'd better not hear of ye taking undue risks with the equipment, or yerself again, is that understood lad?" "Yes sir." ~Never again, especially when it results in having to replace the primary phase coils.~ (Reply Lorimar, room for more) (Posted by Oleg) ******** (USS Boudicca - Bridge - M-CO Cdr. Jerome ManyHorses - 1355) The view screen switched off and ManyHorses sat back in the command chair, the smile he'd given Marshal Wersh as he'd bid him, his crew and the Shonora farewell on behalf of the Boudicca's crew, was still plastered on his face. "Helm set course for Laatstekans Station, warp 6." He ordered. (reply CONN) ~ I think this crew deserves some R & R, and *I* can now hand full command back to Captain Rivers. ~ Jerome thought, feeling no small amount of satisfaction for the successful mission they'd concluded. Not only had they managed to assist the Mithgiln on their mercy mission and done so so the Mithgiln would not have to make contact with the Denatarians, but they'd also done it without breaking the Prime Directive which the Commander had originally feared they might end up doing. As he sat in the command chair he thought about the time he'd spent aboard the fine ship and the crew members he'd come to know to some small degree. He felt comfortable here, more than he ever really had aboard the Saratoga and suddenly he knew that he didn't want to leave the Boudicca even if it did mean that he would no longer be a commanding officer. That didn't bother him in the least, he hadn't joined Starfleet with the goal of becoming a command officer, he'd joined to help people. He was a counselor, a shaman, and he always would be first and foremost. Standing, he gave CONN to the next highest ranking officer on the bridge and strode over to Captain River's ready room. The doors parted as he stepped towards them and walked in. (reply any) (posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Conn/Ops Ensign Micheal Orion - 1357) "Helm set course for Laatstekans Station, warp 6." Ordered Manyhorses "Aye." came the reply from Orion as the coordinates were entered into the computer system and the Boudicca shifted assumed the course and entered warp. (posted by Matthew Locke) (reply none needed.) ********* (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO - Captain Susan Rivers - 1400) Susan looked up as the door opened to admit Commander ManyHorses, and smiled at the M-CO as he entered. She had felt the ship go to warp, and knew that they were leaving the Dentarian system. Which also meant, technically, that she was back in charge of her ship, mission over. However, she didn't want to labour the point with ManyHorses, who had done a sterling job under difficult circumstances and who deserved credit where credit is due. "Any last-minute hitches?" she asked as she rose to greet him. (reply Jerome) Susan nodded and stepped over to the replicator. "Do sit down," she said. "Can I offer you anything?" (reply Jerome) Taking the refreshments over to the sofa, Susan sat down and sipped her Jasmine tea. "Five'll get you ten that the Mithgiln are even now making preparations to go down to the planet, but it's no longer our problem, thankfully," she commented. "And now Jerome - if I may call you that? - what can I do for you?" (Reply Jerome, any) (Posted by Liz) ********* (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO Captain Susan Rivers and M-CO Cdr. Jerome ManyHorses - 1401) The Captain looked up at Jerome as he walked into the Ready Room. "Any last-minute hitches?" she asked as she rose to greet him. Jerome gave her a reassuring smile. "No, I just wanted to speak with you if you have the time." With a nod, Captain Rivers stepped over to the replicator and invited Jerome to sit down and offered him something from the replicator. The Commander folded his tall body on to the sofa. "Thank you Captain, I would enjoy an iced mineral water with lemon zest and a sprig of mint if you wouldn't mind." "Certainly," Susan smiled and entered the order into the replicator, and then her own. It didn't take but a minute for Rivers to bring the refreshments over to the sofa where Jerome was seated and she sat down, lifting her drink as Jerome did so. They sipped appreciatively before she spoke. Susan sat down and sipped her Jasmine tea. "Five'll get you ten that the Mithgiln are even now making preparations to go down to the planet, but it's no longer our problem, thankfully," she commented. "And now Jerome - if I may call you that? - what can I do for you?" "I am afraid I am of similar mind about the Mithgiln, Captain, but at least we managed to help out without jeopardizing our careers and those of our crew..." He took another sip of his flavored water then placed the frost covered glass on the table. "I ummm....I was wondering if it would be possible for me to transfer to the Boudicca, Captain. It really doesn't matter to me if I must accept a lower rank as long as I can continue to be a counselor." He shrugged and smiled wistfully. "I must admit I missed that while I was the Saratoga's first officer and I'd like to get back into it on this ship if it is possible." Susan considered the request. She had come to respect ManyHorses in the dealings they had had over the last few days. It was true that she had an excellent Chief Counsellor in Dorga but she also knew that Dorga would welcome an able assistant. She smiled. "Then if you make your request for a transfer official, I will be glad to endorse it. I hope that your CO on the Saratoga won't object, I'll be happy to have you as a permanent member of my crew, Jerome." No sooner said than done, Jerome fished a PADD from his pocket and immediately texted in a request for transfer then handed the PADD to the Captain. "Tell me, have you been to Laatstekans Station before, Captain? I've heard that it is quite outlandish similar to the frontier towns that sprang up when the Americas were being populated by European pioneers." He listened with avid interest as Rivers replied. "No, I've never been, but from what I've heard your assessment is correct." She grinned suddenly. "I'm sure it will remind me of some of the Maquis bases my family lived on. It will be an interesting experience for all of us." "I am looking forward to exploring the station, perhaps Captain you would join me for shopping and dinner when we're there, I'm sure it will prove most interesting." Susan nodded, looking pleased. "I'd like that very much, Jerome. On one condition, off-duty and in private I am Susan." Jerome really liked Captain Rivers, he found her to be straightforward, honest - sometimes painfully so; he could see why the crew had certain nicknames for their captain, but he also knew they respected and trusted her. He admired her directness and found her to be an attractive woman. He knew he'd be very content to work under her and her reply pleased him immensely. "Very well, Susan it is and I look forward to spending some free time with you, hopefully we will become friends as well as colleagues." ~ Dare I hope for more, Great Manito? ~ (reply none) (posted by Liz & Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 1 - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1500) Detron walked up to the door and asked the computer if the program was ready. The computer said in its metallic voice "Program Ready." Detron entered the holodeck to find the scene exactly how he described it to be. "Good." Detron left the holodeck. He intended on doing some endurance training later. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) ******** (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO - Captain Susan Rivers - 1900) Susan sat back in her chair, deep in thought, one hand idly playing with an empty mug on her desk. She was deeply concerned about Sasha; he had been performing his duties just fine but that was it. There was no spark to him, and it seemed to her that there was something bothering him. Something that was eating away at him deep inside and which he was endeavoring either to hide or to keep bottled up. In the end, she knew, she had to do something about it. Just what, she wasn't sure, but a friend doesn't watch another friend in trouble without at least trying to help. "Computer, where is Commander Stolev?" [Commander Stolev is in his quarters] Susan stood up, and straightened her jacket before heading out of the door. She was a little nervous, truth be told. Intruding on someone's private life is never easy. (reply none yet) (posted by Liz) ******** (USS Boudicca - Stolev's personal quarters - CO Captain Susan Rivers and FO Commander Sasha Stolev - 1910) Outside Stolev's quarters, Susan paused and unconsciously tugged her jacket down again before sounding the doorchime. Sasha looked up from the holopicture of Eva and the kids at the sound of the chime. "Come in," he called out, wondering who would be ringing his doorbell at this time of the evening. Susan entered, stopping herself from looking around. His quarters seemed empty without the twins, and if they seemed empty to her, how much more would he feel that. "I just wanted a chat," she said, unsure how to start and so plunging right in. "But if this is a bad time..?" She let the question hang in the air. "Oh, no, of course," he said, pushing the holopic back into its place on his desk. "It's not like I have a lot else to do," he added with a rueful smile. Sasha walked around the desk and into the living area of the quarters. "Have a seat. Can I get you something?" he asked politely. For a moment Susan was tempted to ask for a glass of wine but remebering what had happened before, she asked for a tall St Clements instead, before sitting herself on the sofa. When Sasha brought the drinks over, she took a sip, and then looked at him. "You still miss them dreadfully, don't you." Sasha looked down into his own drink and nodded. "Yes. And now, with her being promoted to Captain of the Hades, there goes any slim chance of us ever being stationed together again." "She's made captain?" Susan asked. "Well good for her. But it's hard on the both of you, and as you say, it's unlikely they'd station the two of you together. I don't know, it seems to work for Archibald and Lydia but I don't think it works for everyone. I don't think it would work for me either." ~But that's something I have to work out for myself, and not the issue here.~ "Is there anything I can do to help?" she asked. "Make sure that you can at least take leave whenever Eva can for instance?" Sasha shook his head. "I don't think so. I just feel so... empty without them. Which would be all the time when I'm here, whether or not I got to take leave more often to be with them." He took a deep breath. "It's not fair. Not to me, and not to you." Sasha leaned back in his chair and chuckled mirthlessly. "It's funny how life changes in just a few short years, isn't it? A few years ago I could never have imagined myself even married, never mind having children. I was a career man, and sure I had some fun on the side, but that was always secondary. And now, it's becoming more and more evident to me that they are the most important thing to me... not the career, not the fleet. I've become the man I once derided on many a drunken planetside foray -- the family man." Leaning forward, Sasha looked his friend in the eyes. "And that is why I must do what I am about to do." He then pulled his comm badge off his chest, detached his pips from his collar, and reached out to place them gently on the coffee table. "I am resigning my commission, effective immediately. I will depart the ship upon our arrival at Laastekans Station, where I'll obtain transport to rendezvous with the Hades." Susan looked down at the pips and badge on the table for a moment and then met Sasha's eyes again. What she saw there made her heart ache but she was too fond of him to try to dissuade him from a decision that had clearly racked him for a long time now. "You will not 'obtain a transport'," she said eventually. "The Invincible is finishing up a patrol there about the time we'll arrive. I know her captain, she'll be glad to take you to rendezvous with the Hades." It was all she could do for Sasha, he'd been her friend for so long that she couldn't bring herself to let him make his way on a slow transport. "I'll miss you, Sasha," she added simply. "The ship won't be the same without you. For what it's worth, I respect you for making such a hard decision. If you ever change your mind, there'll always be a place for you here." Sasha gave Susan a small smile. "Thank you for not trying to talk me out of it," he replied. "And I appreciate your offer of passage on the Invincible. That will be much faster I am sure." He felt as though a thousand pound weight had been lifted from his shoulders as he leaned forward. "So, tell me, what has Luisa been doing these days?" As he listened to Susan, the smile growing on his face at each description of Luisa's recent adventures and antics, Sasha thought of how he would miss her and the rest of the crew on the Boudicca. It would be sad, but not as heart-wrenching as the last few months had been. So, determined to make the most of the rest of the time on board, he eagerly swapped stories with Susan as their conversation meandered from their children, to their first posting together back on the Nimitz, and points in between, the walls of his quarters echoing with laughter late into the evening. (reply none) (posted by Liz and Aaron) ================================== ================================== Mission: Where Fools Fear to Tread Day 8 Stardate: 2408.11.28 ================================== ================================== (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO, Captain Susan Rivers and 2O/COUNS Lt Cmdr Dorga cha'Nooras - Day 8 - 0745) As Susan closed the link and the Admiral's face was replaced by the Starfleet logo, she smiled grimly to herself. She might not have gotten Admiral Linden out of bed but she *had* definitely caught her at an unseasonably early hour nonetheless. Which may or may not have influenced the fact that Linden had acceded to all Susan's requests. Still smiling, but with a pleasanter expression, she tapped her commbadge. "Rivers to Lt. Commander 'cha Nooras. Dorga, I know it's early but could you meet me in my Ready Room as soon as possible?" Dorga had dropped the twins off at the schoolroom, promising to take them to explore the space station after school and then had gone to her office to catch up on some paperwork. She had just sat down at her desk when her commbadge warbled at her and she heard the familiar voice of her captain and best friend requesting that she go to see her a.s.a.p. Tapping her commbadge, she replied that she'd be along shortly and the link was broken. It didn't take Dorga long to get to the Bridge and subsequently the Ready Room, the door was open so she walked right in and came to a halt in front of Captain Rivers' desk. "What can I do for you?" The 2O asked, wondering if it was personal or official business. "There's something I want to ask you," Susan replied. "Please sit down, Dorga." Dorga sat down and folded her hands over her stomach, otherwise she sat straight, feet planted on the floor, head tilted slightly with curiosity. "We've been friends a long time, haven't we?" Susan began. "And we know one another pretty well, I reckon. So when I ask you what I'm about to ask you, I want you to think about it before you reply. I know you'll give me an honest answer, but this is a big ask and it will mean changes for you." She paused for a moment before continuing. "I had a talk with Sasha last night. You must have noticed that he hasn't been himself lately?" "Yes, I thought he was rather quiet, even for him!" "The thing is, he's missing Eva and the children terribly. I think he was hoping against hope that one day they'd be stationed together again, but now... well, now Eva has been made CO of the Hades, that doesn't look likely. It would be extremely unlikely that Starfleet would sanction a husband and wife CO/FO team, and to be honest remembering what happened when we attacked the Telepathy Lab..." She gave Dorga a brief description of the rehearsal in the holodeck, and Sasha's hesitation when it came to killing an Eva-look-alike. Dorga thought it was just as well that they weren't forced to kill Eva on Iradon during her rampage of destruction as the Anointed, obviously Stolev would not have been capable of doing so and most likely would have attempted to thwart any attempt to do so, which may have had catastrophic results. "So, to cut a long story short, he's been considering his options and has finally reached a decision." She sighed. "He's resigned his commission, Dorga, and is going to live on the Hades as a civilian." Her tone was carefully neutral, not giving away her feelings on the matter although she suspected that Dorga would know what they were despite that. "I'll be honest, I'll miss him as both a friend and an FO. And I'm not willing to take any old Tom Dick or Harriet as his replacement either. So...." The news that Sasha was resigning his commission was a surprise to the 2O, she thought he loved his job so much that he'd never do that, she had even doubted that he would accept a ship of his own if the offer were made. ~ So what is Susan going to do about it? ~ Dorga waited to hear. Susan looked at her old friend. "I can only think of one person that I would like to replace Sasha as FO, Dorga, and that's you." Dorga leaned forward and was about to tell Susan that of course she could rely on her for anything but she held up a hand to forestall any answer for the moment. "But you need to think it through very carefully. It will mean a big change for you. Its not that I don't think you can handle it, of course you can. But there's Rivers and Parami to think of too. Being FO will necessarily take up more time than being Chief Counsellor and 2O. Not only that but since you'll be leading more away teams, it could potentially put you in the line of danger more often. So please, my dear friend, think it over carefully before you give me your answer." With another one nod, Dorga told Susan, "I really don't need time to think it over, but if you insist I will wait a while before accepting." She laughed softly, "the answer will still be yes either way." Susan smiled then. "I'll accept your final answer tomorrow, Dorga. And thank you. I think we'll make a great team." Dorga just grinned at her friend and gave the one nod. "So...If I'm to be your number one who is going to be your number two?" "That," Susan said thoughtfully, "I haven't decided yet." "I see" Dorga replied, "well then good luck in deciding. Now if you will allow, I will get more paperwork done." (Reply any, none) (Posted by Sal and Liz) ==================================== ==================================== Mission: Where Fools Fear to Tread Day 15 Stardate: 2408.12.05 ==================================== ==================================== (Shonora Ellian, Command Deck - Marshal Torias Wersh - 1200) Torias watched on the forward screen as Shonora Marra and Shonora Rellus screamed into the system as fast as they were capable. Torias pitied the crews of artificial ships that were beginning to flesh out the ranks of the space force. It was truly something to behold when your ship quite fittingly stood along side of you, when it pushed itself harder and faster as it's crew did as well. Marra and Rellus spiraled around each other as they approached the planet, ever in sync with each other. Ellian slowly rolled in greeting, and Torias looked back to see Rennia smiling, her eyes closed, probably already in conversation with Marra's and Rellus's guardians. Torias smiled remembering the Wedding ceremony between Marra's and Rellus's Guadians, the two Shonora were a mated pair as well and had set the two Guardians up at some point. It had been a sight to see, a full herd showed up to take part in the Guardian's Marriage. Marra and Rellus were nearly always partnered on missions, in deference to both them and their guardians, and they always put on the best acrobatic shows together. Torias had already made contact with the Dentarians, shortly after the Boudicca left, in deference to their wishes. His medical teams were on the surface still, working closely with the various Dentarian medical organizations to treat those that the vaccine didn't take hold on. The various Dentarian governments handled everything fairly well, even if they were a tad worried about the plague. The Various opposing political interests had managed to work together quite well during the last ten days. Marra's and Rellus's crews would take over inside the day. They had the political and diplomatic members to continue working with the Dentarian people to make sure they adapted well to the sudden appearance of alien life. The Dentarians would be a long project, even after the virus was fully dealt with. They'd have diplomatic envoys on the surface or in space for a long while to make sure things went smoothly and peacefully. When the two Marshal's contacted him Torias filled them in on everything. Both Scholar caste members, and Doctors to boot, they commended him on finding a workable solution to the unexpected problem. He handed over command of the mission to Rellus's Marshal, as she had a more Administrative background than Marra's who was a surgeon first and foremost. She'd make sure everything remained calm and peaceful, and well organized. It wasn't long before Torias had made the introductions to the heads of state on Dentarians and explained that he and his crew would be leaving shortly, and that the two medical ships would be taking over. He still wondered what the Federation worried about, the Mithgiln had been doing this for a few centuries, when necessary, and no society had imploded yet. None had gone to war, or worshiped the Mithgiln as gods. They didn't make contact with societies that couldn't handle them, they worked in the background in less developed worlds, and those worlds never knew they had been saved. Still, he was sure the Mithgiln confused the Federation on some things too. It was the nature of things, every society was different, and nearly every society thought their way was best. With Introductions made, his teams recalled, and command of the situation transferred, Torias looked around the command deck, his officers busy at work. "Helm, find me something uncharted to explore and set a course. Inform Command once we're on our way. Time to get to work. (Reply None) (Posted by Patrick D.) ************************************************************** WHERE FOOLS FEAR TO TREAD IS NOW CONCLUDED **************************************************************