Stardate:2406.10.24 (Spacedock Phoenix - Quarters - Commander Kestra Troi - 0700) The time that the crew of the Nimitz had aboard the Phoenix space dock had helped them gather much needed rest. Another thing that it gave them was time to gather a new perspective on what had happened during their last mission. Some had decided that fighting their own people was not what they signed up for and left Starfleet to go home to their families. She understood with their feelings as she was also having troubles. The current situation with Starfleet has gone against everything that she had actually been taught in her main profession, Counseling. In her training and her beliefs, there is always other ways to accomplish things that killing. In all her training from Betazed to Earth trained her to think and evaluate other ways. To help people from their hostile thinking and to promote the ideals of peace, cooperative thinking, etc. She had seen the evidence that was presented for the break away and had agreed that the actions were warranted. She had hoped that there could have been a chance to come up with an alternative action that could avoid the killing of each other. As the time continued she found that there would not be an alternative to the killing without taking out the one that has caused it all. As a Starfleet Officer she has sworn to do as she is told, but, they can not order her to accept all that she does. This All or Nothing thinking that has been going on is not her way of thinking. Standing there in her quarters, looking out the window at the activity around the Dock, she was trying to come to peace with herself. It was not easy and she was not sure that she would ever again be at peace with herself. *Beep* *Beep* Kestra looked around to her computer console sitting on the desk not far from her. On the screen was the identification of a priority message waiting for her to accept. Sighing and turning away from the window, she moved over to it. Hitting the key for acceptance, a message came across from the Betazoid government that made her suddenly sit down. She sat there just reading the message over and over not knowing how much time had passed before she reached up to turn it off. She got up and walked to the window once again. ~I guess my choices have been made for me~ She thought to herself. Wiping a tear from her face as it slid down, she tapped her commbadge, "Commander Troi to Captain Sash, I need to speak with you in my quarters ASAP. Sash it is very important." Sash had been worried about Kestra since they got to spacedock. She'd been quiet. Too quiet. And she'd been avoiding him. That was not a good thing.  =^=What's going on Kestra?=^= "Sash I can't explain like this, I need you here" She said before closing the contact. =^=I'll be right there,=^= he replied as the channel closed. Kestra continued to stand and look out the window at all that was happening, but, she was not looking at them. She was looking far beyond them to where she would have to go now, to what she would have to do now. She was unaware that there was a steady stream of tears running down her cheeks as she continued to think and remember days gone past. Of the childhood she had, the fun times she had, the times on diplomatic missions with her dad and mom, the graduations from the different schools and her dads grin as he watched her accept her awards. She remembered the smiles that her mother had secretly had not wanting anyone to see that she was so proud of her daughter but not wanting her to know either. Kestra guessed she always did know but they were at odds with each other a lot. She remembered the adoption of Trish and her marriage to Sky, the birth of the Twins, Her friendship with Aragorn and Susan along with many others. Then she remembered the message of her fathers death and how she felt then. The funeral that followed, the feelings of loss that she felt then and still feeling. Now she is coming to feel a brand new feeling, that of being alone.  Alone to face whatever comes her way. Of thinking that maybe this is what makes the really good counselors, the tragedies that they go through their own lives so they can help others more efficiently. She did not even turn around when she heard the door to her quarters open and knew it was Sash coming in. As Sash stepped into Kestra's quarters he saw her silhouetted against the window. He couldn't help but notice how lovely she was, and how sad. It practically seeped from her. He knew she'd been having troubles. He just had no idea how to approach her with it. She was the ex-Counselor, not him. "Hi," he said softly. After Sash spoke, the reality of all her troubles came crashing in and she started trembling. To steady herself she reached out to the window and half wished it would let her fall, but, it did what it was suppose to do, hold.  She just did not have the strength to turn around and face another that she cared for, to possibly see the disappointment in his face. "I don't know where to start," she started quietly, "but, I guess I will just have to let it come. I am a starfleet officer and I accept what that all encompasses. I know that there are times that when something happens and we don't agree, we still have to carry out our orders." She was still not looking at Sash or even talking very loud. She did not know if he heard her but she continued. "I had agreed that what we were doing was the right thing, but, now I am not so sure that the end justifies the means." Sash walked across the room and sat on the arm of the sofa, watching her closely. His eyes narrowed a little. "So you think that Doenitz and his crew should pretty much make their way through the universe, unchecked, and not held accountable?" Dropping her head, she knew he was not getting what she was saying or where she was going. "That is not what I was trying to say. I believe that Doenitz must be stopped and made to pay for what he has done and what he has caused to be done. It is just that I wished..... oh I know that there is no other way." She pause with sigh, "I am a starfleet officer and I do what I am told, but, I have to come to terms afterward for the actions that I had to do to accomplish my or our mission." "Actually, this is not really why I called you here. I have received some rather bad news and I guess I needed someone to help me get past it." Her tears started once again as she turned to Sash to look at him. "My........ mother........ has passed away." She barely whispered out the news. The news stunned him for a moment. He was on his feet and by her side immediately. "Oh Kestra, I am so sorry." Sash put his arms around her and drew her into a tight embrace. He could feel her body shudder under his touch as she released herself to her grief. It was the first time that he had allowed her to get so close, since she had returned to the Nimitz. When Kestra had left the Nimitz to become CMO, Sash had allowed her inside his own emotional defenses. She had been the first since his wife. Then, when she came back he had kept her at arms length, knowing how inappropriate it would be for CO and his FO to be involved. Sometimes it was difficult.  Right now, all of that didn't seem to matter. He wished that he could take away her hurt. Kestra had yielded to the need to be held and that need was to be held by Sash. It felt so good to be in his arms and to be able to release her emotions for a moment. She could feel the want in him to take her pain away, but, she could not and would not let anyone do that. It was something that she needed to deal with in her own time. After a few moments of comfort from Sash, she regained her composure and slowly moved away from him. She knew that no one would come in on them, but, as CO and FO, it was inappropriate for them to be this close. If the Admiral found out about this he probably would split them up. So, to save his career and probably hers, she had to put distance between them. "Thanks Devan." She used his first name which she had not used in a long time, "I needed that, but, our positions prohibits things like that." Turning back to the window and bringing up her emotional shield once again, "I need a little bit of time to find someone to take care of my kids, then, I will be ready to proceed on the next mission." Sash let her go. He knew what it was like to lose someone, and the need for solitude. It was part of the healing process. Another part, though, was taking the time necessary to simply take care of business. "Don't be silly Kestra," Sash said, "you need to go home and take care of your family. Get things settled there. Your mother was raising your children, you can't just find a baby sitter for that." Kestra turned to him, "You know as well as I do that we can not afford to lose even one command staff during this time of peril. My kids will just have to understand that mommy can't come right now." She wanted so bad to go to them as she knew that they were probably taking it hard also, especially Trisha as she is the oldest. He moved over to Kestra and grabbed her by the shoulders, turning her to face him. He looked sternly at her. "Listen, what they understand is that first their mommy left them behind for their own safety. Now they've lost another care giver. They understand that they are alone in this universe. That's your children." He realized he was being a little hard. "True, we need all of the help we can get, but, believe it or not, our efforts will not fall apart without Kestra Troi. Your family needs you, and you need to be with your family. That's part of what we're fighting about." Kestra looked hard into Devan's eyes and she surface brushed his thoughts to find that he was as he had always been with her, honest. She put her arms around him, forgetting once again the regulations about fraternization to get the warmth that he offered her. "But, this means that I don't know when I will be back. What do I do?" She asked him while she laid her head against his chest. Sash held her tightly. "You do what you know you should do. Go take care of your family. You're no good to me if your spending half your time worried about them. Get your life settled, and we'll see where things lead from there." The warmth they both were generating was a comfort to her as she knew it could and probably would be a long time till she would see Devan again, if ever. "I know that my kids need me and that I need to go there, but, I am also torn with my loyalty to Starfleet, the Nimitz and to you." She looked up at him, "I will be thinking of everyone while I am gone." She stood on her tip toes and gave him a kiss. "Please keep me informed of what is going on." Sash smiled. he knew that he had won this one way too easily. Kestra knew where she really needed to be. She seemed relieved that he was actually talking her into taking this leave. "Your loyalty has never been in doubt, or questioned," Sash assured her.  "And of course I'll keep you as informed as I can. You, however, need to be careful. You'll be in the heart of enemy territory. So keep a low profile." He looked into her beautiful eyes. "I will miss you.. Commandr Troi." At that he leaned down and gave her a light kiss on the lips. (reply from none) (posted by Frank and Al) Stardate:2406.10.24 (USS Nimitz - Counsellor's office - COUNS - Ensign (sg) John Harrison - 1000) John Harrison had been in his office for about two hours now. Having woken up worryingly refresed after the past week's events, he was filled with a pride and determination to do his duty. Presumably everyone was taking a well-earned rest from their duties, which meant a counsellor under their feet would be more or less tolerable today. He'd had eaten fairly heartily, asking the replicator for a full english breakfast just like he used to have back on earth. It didn't taste as good as those he had back home, but it seemed to put things in perspective for him. He had only been in space for a couple of weeks at most, and already he got a sense of nostalgia from a simple breakfast. Was that a testament of how quickly he felt he'd settled into life on the Nimitz, or was it a symptom of homesickness? The huge ship was still confusing to him, but he felt it was a home. His home. He had spent the first two hours of the morning in his office, going over the list he had compiled to afternoon after the battle. It showed all of the people he wanted, no - needed, to talk to. At the bottom, the words "Captain Devan Sash" sat, waiting patiently. This was to be his first truly official duties as a counsellor, and he was determined to prove his worth. At the top of the list had been Dr. Kirien's name, but he had spoken to her already. He intended to speak briefly with her before he spoke to her daughters. Before that, however, he had to work his way through the senior staff. His own name was above the captain's. Before he could make a report, he wanted to counsel himself with a little holodeck time, in order to be in the right frame of mind for speaking to his commanding officer. At the top of the list was Zzt, so he rose from his desk and made his way to the turbolift. "Engineering," he called to the lift controls. (USS Nimitz - Counsellor's office - COUNS - Ensign (sg) John Harrison - 1019) The turbolift glided to a halt, the doors slid open and Harrison felt instantly lost. He had never been to the engineering department - he had not needed to. He didn't really care how the ship worked, providing that it DID work. Properly. He stepped out of the lift and made his way to the nearest information panel. "Computer," he said pleasantly, "Locate Chief Engineer Zzt." [CEO Zzt is in Main Engineering] ~Well, even I could work that out!~ he thought. "And where is that?" The computer once again asked him to follow the arrows and arrows appeared along the walls. Harrison walked along the corridor and turned smartly into main engineering. The size of it took his breath away. So many complex computer terminals. So many people walking around, busy keeping the ship in order. And there, in the centre of the room, throbbed the mighty Warp Core. He immediately recognised Zzt and walked over to him. "Good morning," he said, "How busy are you today?" (reply Zzt) "I wondered if you would care to talk about the mission?" (reply Zzt) (posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.10.24 (Spacedock Phoenix - boarding hall - private 3rd. class Kane Curtis - 1001)   Kane, a big pile of muscle was to be reporting himself on the Nimitz for duty, found himself looking at the Nimitz from inside the spacedock. He just stared at for half an hour, end then boarded the ship.   (USS Nimitz - Hallway - Marine Kane Curtis - 1035)   He stepped inside, onto the Nimitz, his first steps on a starship..... well, at least for as far he knew. He went directly for the staging area. People were staring at him, he didn't let it bother him, and just kept walking. He reached the staging area, and dropped of his stuff he that needed to be there, nothing much since he didn't have that many property. He went to his queaters, nothing much, just the basic needs like a bed, and means of washing himself up. He dropped an army-bag there, and took a note out of it. He was supposed to give it to the Captain without looking into it himself. What he didn't knew was that it held information the scientists found out about Kane. It was a top-priority that Captain Sash would receive this letter. So he walked out of his room, and with a quick pace, he made his way to the Captain's room. People had to dodge him, or he would've stepped over them. He held strict to the top-priority. When he reached the turbo-lift, he pushed a few people aside and entered.   "What are you doing man?" One asked   "I'm on a top-priority mission, you'll have to excuse me." He said, and the doors closed.   (USS Nimitz - Captain's room - Marine Kane Curtis - 1057)   He chimed the door and waited for a reply.   (reply Sash)   He marched in, stomping his feet to the floor, very disciplined, making the floor shudder, like it would almost fall apart. He came to halt with a big stomp from his right foot, and saluted, with a loud strong voice.   "Marine Kane Curtis reporting for duty Captain."   (reply Sash)   "I was ordered to hand you this letter Captain."   He placed the letter on Sash's desk and waited for a reply   (reply Sash) (posted by Anthony Struelens) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – Sickbay – CMO/2O – Lt. BigWill Kinkaid – 12:35) With damage control commencing and the repair teams across the ship working at a feverish rate, Kinkaid could only imagine that since the arrival of the Mystique the fast pace scene would be almost unbearable to deal with once involved. The medical section was having its ups and downs in meeting the tight mission schedule brought forth by Kinkaid at the last medical briefing. It was like two ridged surfaces rubbing together without a trace of lubrication to ease the fiction which was starting to be the case in sickbay. Kinkaid was trying to process patients that needed to be screened and those that required immediate attention when out of the blue of the quietness of sickbay he heard his name being called. “Kinkaid!” The rude sounding voice said. Kinkaid turned in the direction of the voice. It was Lt. Cmdr Edward Gideon standing near the entrance to sickbay. Kinkaid responded in an immediate fashion as if emergency aid was needed. “Yes, Lt. Cmdr Gideon. Is there something I could help you with?” Kinkaid said with some form of concern in his voice. Gideon stated emotionless, “Can you make sure that Doc Kirien gets this if she wants it; if not throw it away.” Gideon handed an image of the late Cmdr Wilson, Dr. Michaella Kirien and their two beloved children over to Kinkaid. It was almost a revisited moment for Kinkaid which was something he did not want to dwell upon due to the emotional atmosphere that may resurface if given to Michaella. “Of course, Sir, I’ll make sure Dr. Kirien receives the image.” Kinkaid wanted to say more, but stopped before doing so. Gideon had something else on his mind, “Also, I need to have a medical at some point. I still haven’t had one since coming aboard; I believe it’s some sort of archaic ritual that we just can’t seem to get rid of but still...” Kinkaid knew exacting what Gideon was trying to say about going through the whole medical screening process. He, himself, has put in numerous requests to Starfleet Medical about modifying or developing a system where the medical screening automatically updates the person’s bio-telemetry when arriving to a new location. “I truly concur with your sentiments, Lt. Cmdr, but rules are rules and yes, you are in need of one.” Kinkaid said as he scanned his PADD of crewmen who still needed a medical exam. “And when can you be available?” “Whenever is good for you Chief I’m currently just looking busy in the SFI office,” Gideon stated, making his sarcasm apparent in his tone. Kinkaid took notice to Gideon’s sarcasm in his voice and look at his PADD while scanning his sickbay. “Well, well, what do we have here? An available opening has just occurred. Will now be a go time? It will just take a few minutes of you time.” (Reply Gideon) (Posted by Nathan M. Williams) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – Sickbay – SFI/SC – Lt.Cmdr Edward Gideon – 12:39) Edward looked at the doctor who was a tad taller than him to his displeasure. He hated people larger to him it made him think too much. His training dictated to always look for a weak spot on people even if they were allies and the bigger the person the larger the weak spots were. Grinning to himself he listened to the Chief once more. “Well, well, what do we have here? An available opening has just occurred. Will now be a go time? It will just take a few minutes of you time.” Edward resisted with all his might the urge to roll his eyes, putting on a fake smile he spoke. “Anything for you Doc,” Edward stated. “Where do you want me?” (Reply KinKaid) “Before we begin are you familiar with my race?” Edward always loathed medical examinations they always were followed by Doctors insisting on more probing and examination something that he loathed with a passion. (Reply KinKaid) “Right then Doc probe away then,” Edward stated awaiting the medical check up. (Reply KinKaid) NRPG I shall leave that in your capable hands Doc ;-) RPG (USS Nimitz – On route to Bridge – SFI/SC – Lt.Cmdr Ed Gideon – 13:30) Still walking a tad uncomfortably Edward continued to scowl along the corridors of the Nimitz. Medical checks were never fun and as always this was no different. From his reading of the mission files it appeared that Wilson had not won any awards for popularity of the SFI office. Practically coming aboard and spying on the Commanding officer was obviously not going to go down well. Edward needed to make a conscious effort to improve the standard of SFI on the Nimitz. At the present moment SFI should be cooperating more throughouly with the fleet since the break from the main fleet. However the break elements of SFI were clinging to the old ways with every fibre of their being. Comical situation was Edward was practically triple the age of most SFI operatives yet he wasn’t going to maintain the old ways, now was a time for a clean break. As the bridge came into view Edward continued his gentle pace and then smiled as he entered the bridge. Being in a better condition from when he had first arrived he looked around at the officers at their stations smiling he made his way over to Onyx. “How are you this afternoon?” (Reply Kateb) “Good, do you know where id find Tagon?” (Reply Kateb) “Very good, most importantly though are you free around 17:00?” (Reply Kateb) “I was thinking we could go for a walk on the holodeck or something like that. Im going blind on paper work and would appreciate the break,” Edward stated smiling leaning on a consol absent minded feeling to relaxed at the moment. With the ship undergoing repairs there wasn’t much for a security officer to do and thankfully no one had decided to breach the peace meaning he was on easy street for a bit. (Reply Kateb) (Reply KinKaid, Kateb, any) (Posted By Richard) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – Sickbay – CMO/2O – Lt. BigWill Kinkaid – 12:42) Kinkaid could see Gideon’s facial expressions go from a lack of emotion to ‘what did I get myself into’ facial look. Kinkaid sometimes likes to be called a ‘miracle worker’ in getting his patients with a little humor; sarcastic at times into sickbay so he can do his profession in treating and curing people regardless of gender or species. “Anything for you Doc,” Gideon stated. “Where do you want me?” “Right this way...” Kinkaid escorted Gideon to a nearby biobed and said, “And here we are...” Kinkaid motioned by tapping his hand on the biobed. “Hop up on top and laid down and be very still during the exam.” Kinkaid instructed while setting the bio-scanner on the biobed. “Before we begin are you familiar with my race?” Gideon said trying to prolong the exam. Kinkaid responded. “Yes, I am familiar with your race.” Kinkaid knew this type of question would come up eventually during the course of the procedure. He accessed a medical console near the biobed. Kinkaid inputted a few reference points and began the summarize Gideon’s species background. “Well, let’s see… it says here that you are from sect of El’Aurian race called Silic’ians. Your anatomy resembles almost every characteristics of the Human race of Earth, but you have two hearts and 60% of the brain capacity is used along with incredible healing abilities and increased strength. According to Starfleet Medical, with these characteristics there are some side effects to note like increase migraine headaches which if severe could result in mental properties like schizophrenia.” Kinkaid glanced at Gideon lying on the biobed knowing that he was familiar with the topic enough to carry on with his duty. “Right then Doc probe away then,” Gideon stated awaiting the medical check up. Kinkaid began the exam by activating the bio-scanner. In a matter of a few minutes, once the scanner made three good passes over the patient’s body, the test results were in. It seemed that not too many crewmen come in and leave sickbay with a clean bill of health, but with the results at his fingertips, Kinkaid gave his diagnosis. “Well, Lt. Cmdr, it appears that besides an above average neuro activity which is generally caused by stress; you are in good shape. You are free to return to your duties, Sir.” (Reply Gideon, if you want to) (Posted by Nathan M. Williams) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – Sickbay – SFI/SC – Lt.Cmdr Edward Gideon – 12:46) “Well, Lt. Cmdr, it appears that besides an above average neuron activity which is generally caused by stress; you are in good shape. You are free to return to your duties, Sir.” Edward hopped down from the bio bed and grinned. “Thank you Doctor,” Edward paused for a moment and then spoke again. “How is the new position going?” Edward enquired not really knowing the crew and knowing that KinKaid was sort of involved with his nurse and that was about it. This seemed as good as a time as any. (Reply KinKaid) “How are things with the Nurse?” Edward stated raising his eyebrow, he only saw the woman on the view screen and unfortunately crew don’t wear name badges. Although it would make his life easier if they did. ~Have to suggest that at the next meeting, ~ Edward thought to himself. (Reply KinKaid) “Doctor might I speak confidentially?” (Reply KinKaid) “For the last 5 Generations of my family at a certain age we have had psychological breaks that we do not recover from,” Edward took a breath attempting to figure his words carefully. “I have told Onyx im 10 years away. In fact im about 1 year, 2 at most,” Edward stated. (Reply KinKaid) “As far as research goes nothing has been uncovered yet and a lot of my family and species have attempted to uncover a solution. Nothing has been uncovered though, from what I do know is that my brain will continue to increase until the containment between my previous peoples memories and my own mix. Result is a form of psychosis,” (Reply KinKaid) “Well symptom wise I have only begun stage one, im getting more frequent memory bleeds and a lot more migraines,” Edward stated not really comfortable about discussing his weakness but seeing no other alternative. (Reply KinKaid) “I don’t know if you will be able to do anything Lieutenant but you should know being the ships medical officer. I will be able to function completely for about 1 year after then in most cases I as a personality will disappear. I know you doctors as a whole can work miracles so im hoping you can pull something out of the bag here,” (Reply KinKaid) NRPG Add more iyw ;-) RPG (USS Nimitz - Bridge – SFI/SC – Lt.Cmdr Edward Gideon - 1342) Edward smiled as Onyx spoke it was an involuntary reaction to her being around him. Whenever she was near he acted less like a Starfleet officer and more like a child coming into maturity. Mentally he was calculating how far he would make it if he punched her in the arm and ran off. Of course his boredom at not having much to do and not wanting to go blind on paper work properly had something to do with that. It was more down to one simple logic if KinKaid could not come up with anything he had to make sure what time he had left was worthwhile. “That is a good idea... A walk on the beach perhaps!” Edward stroked his jaw and then twisted his face as if he had sucked on a lemon. “Oh I don’t know, last beach we were on I did get sunburn,” Edward stated not really a sun lover at all. (Reply Kateb) “Well it is only fair that you get to choose so if you do all of that it will be grand,” Edward stated smiling and moving towards the tubolift. “Im going to catch up with Tagon so I shall see you later my dear,” (Reply Kateb) (USS Nimitz – Tactical Planning Lounge – SFI/SC – Lt.Cmdr Ed Gideon – 14:00) Edward entered the lounge from first sight it was not clear that a rather large creature was residing. Edward continued to move around the exterior of the circular room, the sides, which he stalked, were darkened in comparison to the center of the room. It might have been a result of his old training but he still didn’t like people seeing him until he wanted to be seen. Edward saw the large Brikkar looking over a series of maps clearing his throat he moved into the light. “Lieutenant Tagon,” Ed stated quite formally using his best British aristocrat he could muster. (Reply Tagon) “Sorry for disturbing you Lieutenant, and further more sorry for not meeting you properly before now,” (Reply Tagon) “I understand you have been working Intelligence for a short time since you were transferred from Geneva?” (Reply Tagon) “Could you tell me what is our exact resources on Nimitz from what I have seen they are minimal,” Edward stated referring to the quarters that his predecessor had resided in and formed his office in. (Reply Tagon) “Did we collect all files from Commander Wilson’s quarters? And was the room sealed and secured after his death?” (Reply Tagon) “The councilor, ACMO and numerous others entered for a group counseling session,” Edward stated quite disgusted by this. “Does no one understand the Commander might have held sensitive information in his quarters? Was a full itinerary performed on his quarters after he died?” (Reply Tagon) “Was anything missing and had anything been accessed?” (Reply Tagon) Edward paced around the center of the room for a moment and then spoke. “Im going to go speak to the Councilor,” Edward stated turning to walking out of the door. He was not angry with Tagon or anyone else for that matter it was a simple logic that they should not have entered with out security escort. Sensitive materials were present the type that eyes shouldn’t really come across. As he continued his mental rant he became aware he had not locked his own office. However for Edward that was not the issue at the moment. “Gideon to Councilor Harrison,” Edward stated tapping his com badge. (Reply Harrison) “Mr. Harrison, might it be possible to meet with you to discus a matter,” (Reply Harrison) (Reply KinKaid, Kateb, Tagon, Harrison, Any) (Posted By Richard) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Shuttlecraft Euphrates- Passenger Lounge- TAC/ASC- Ensign Paul Casely- 1427hrs)   Paul could see the ship in the distance. A month... a month he had travelled to get to his recent posting. First on board NCC-900, the Fisher, a transport tug. Cramped, uncomfortable, a reminder as to what happens to those who either don't graduate the Academy or don't do so in a proper fashion... then on board a science vessel named the Minsk, much more comfortable but Paul felt like he never understood the dinner conversation which was frustrating at best. Finally, for two weeks Paul had been on the Columbia, a fast Viking class long range scout vessel. He felt the most comfortable on this vessel as the people on board seemed to be carrying out missions that would be similar to what he was anticipating. Now... finally the prize was in sight and the shuttlecraft lanched from the Columbia's present holding position, was preparing to dock with the USS Nimitz. Paul felt a chill of excitement, and fear, run through him.  He watched the shuttle craft get closer to the bay doors and check his belongings, including the PADD which held his assignment information. No doubt the Captain was aware of his arrival, but the PADD still should be relinquished.  Paul glanced over at a mirror and checked his uniform. It felt so strange to be dressed in the gold and black uniform of tactical and security.  Paul could feel a shift in momentum as the tractor beam caught the shuttlecraft and guided it into its docking bay.  Just a few minutes now. Paul knew that once onboard he would have to quickly make his way to the Ready Room to report for duty.     (USS Nimitz- Ready Room- TAC/ASC- Ensign Paul Casely- 1500hrs)   Paul paused briefly at the door before stepping inside. This was it... and then he walked through the door.   "Ensign Paul Casely reporting for duty, Sir!" said Paul to the man seated in front of him who had obviously been waiting for his arrival.   (Reply Captain Devan Sash)   (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz- Ready Room- CO- Captain Devaqn Sash- 1501) "Yes Admiral," Sash said to LoDona,who was on the screen, "of course she can have the use of Lt. Falthgood. I'm certain that he will be invaluable to Captain Winters. I'll make the arrangements. Sash out." Sash looked at the blank screen and chuckled. ~Whjo else is the woman going to want. Next thing she'll be asking for Zzt.~ Sash was happy to send Falthgood with Nessa. And to be honest, with the events around the whole "Blood Fued" thing, he was more than happy to seperate Falthgood from Dorkin. There had been a rash of unexplainable phenomonon occuring in the marine's training area, that Dorkin cintinually blamed Falthgood for, eventhough the man always had an alibi. The last one, where the holodeck only seemed to produce giant Thallonian stink bugs as adversaries, almost made Sash chuckle in front of the MCO. That and the fact that the program wouldn't shut down for an hour, was definitely an indication that somebody was messing around with Dorkin. Sash smiled at the thought of the marines, knee deep, in the most offensive smell that he could imagine. That one required a difinate sick imagination. Dorkin, was true to his word, and had not retaliated with brute forsce, yet. But Sash could see that he was at a breaking point. The door chime brought Sash from his thoughts. "Come," he called out. A young man entered and stepped over to the desk. "Ensign Paul Casely reporting for duty, Sir!" "Ah yes," Sash stood and came around the desk, "Mr Casely, welcome aboard the Nimitz." Sash reached out and covered Casely's hand with his rather large hand. "I've been expecting you. You are our new Tactical officer and Assistant Security Chief. Sit down, and tell me one important fact about yourself Ensign. And none of that academy crap about how you'll work your harderst. this is the real world, and I want to know something real about you." Sash sat on the edge of his desk waiting for an answer. (reply Casely) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz- Ready Room- CO- Captain Devan Sash- 1508) A young man entered and stepped over to the desk.  "Ensign Paul Casely reporting for duty, Sir!"   "Ah yes," Sash stood and came around the desk, "Mr Casely, welcome aboard the Nimitz."  Sash reached out and covered Casely's hand with his rather large hand.  "I've been expecting you.  You are our new Tactical officer and Assistant Security Chief.  Sit down, and tell me one important fact about yourself Ensign.  And none of that academy crap about how you'll work your harderst.  this is the real world, and I want to know something real about you." Sash sat on the edge of his desk waiting for an answer. "Ummm... Yes Sir.  Well, to start with... not to question you Sir... I thought I was stationed as Assistant Tactical Chief with some duties as a Security Officer. Has something changed?" Paul asked uncomfortably. He didn't want to question his Commanding Officer, but had to be sure of his duties ahead of time.   (Reply Sash)   "As for your question. Well, I'm a bit older than your average Ensign I guess. I studied History and Politics in university for some time. History for the tactics which I found fascinating, politics for the diplomacy which I felt might keep the tactics from being necessary. Anyway, I completed my Masters degree and was starting my doctorate when I decided that I wasn't persuing that for myself... it was because my parents wanted it. I always wanted to be in Starfleet, so I left university and enrolled... they gave me some advanced standing because of my previous work in some courses." stated Paul.   (Reply Sash) (posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz - Personal Quarters - Lt(jg) Falthgood - 1545) Zach laid out on his specialized bed, one made for his long length, and took a deep breath. The hours were long on this ship, especially considering all the little extra's that kept popping up from Lee or LoDona or whomever else thought they were in command of the fleet at any given moment. Sometime soon Zach would have to see about cutting back transmissions to the ship, if someone else hadn't thought about it already... if anyone caught wind that he was still around, the Nimitz was sure to turn into a flying target. [Incoming Secure Transmission for Lieutenant Zachary Falthgood] Zach quirked an eyelid open, "Tell whoever it is to suck my shorts and eat my big toe... or something like that." [Authorization required.] Falthgood sighed, he hated this sh*t. "Alright, alright... pushy wench. I didn't take that from my wife, I aint going to take it from you either computer." He groaned and sat back up again, then swung his legs out. "Actually, come to think of it, I did take it from my wife. But don't get any ideas or Ill turn you into an over-sized toaster/coffee maker combo." He faced the screen, but didn't bother to redo his uniform. He was off duty, whoever wanted to talk to him (and he had an idea, he was going to skin Lee later), would have to live with it. "Alright, computer... accept message. Authorization Falthgood zeta seven one." The screen popped into life, but rather then a Captain, an Admiral was on the screen. Falthgood groaned again and rubbed his brow. There was only one person it could be, he only knew of one admiral in the 52nd with Borg implants. Never before had LoDona contacted him directly... it wasn't seemly, after all, for Admirals to associate with lower-class life forms such as Lieutenants. "What can I do for you, Admiral?" "I am giving you a temporary transfer, Lieutenant, to the Mystique. Be ready to leave in three hours time." Zach stopped his motions and looked at LoDona, "For what, might I ask?" "You will be more useful there, and I've had a couple requests to get you off the Nimitz for a time, in order to keep anyone looking for you confused for a while longer." "Ah." Was Zach's only response. "Right, how long is this temporary assignment?" "At least a month, after that will depend on your proximity to the Nimitz and transportation to get you back. Captain Sash has already been notified, your orders are cut." "Right-O." Zach said wearily. "Anything else I can do for you, your worship?" The Admiral on the other end quirked an eyebrow, "Yeah, get a haircut. LoDona out." Zach stared at the screen as it went blank, then ran a hand through his thinning hair. Finally, after long moments of indecision, he said "Blasted admirals, no sense of humor." (USS Nimitz - Transporter Room 1 - Lt(jg) Falthgood - 1810) "Right, make sure this stuff gets aboard to my quarters directly. And make sure the probe goes directly to their secure lab facilities." The Transporter Chief, a pro who had been listening to Falthgood for at least fifteen minutes repeating himself as he made last minute arrangements, rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Sir," she finally said. "Get you're butt off my pad before I throw you out of my transporter room." Zach grinned, he knew this chief, he talked to her like that all the time. Occasionally, usually when she was pushed beyond all limits, she would respond in kind. "Why, Chief, I do think I'm baiting you." "You would know, Sir." She said mildly. "You're a master at it." "ooooOOOOoooo...." Zach said as he threw the strap of his carry-all over his shoulder. "Disobedient chiefs, off-color and very suggestive humor, I should report you." "Yes, you should. Now, shall we?" she said, taking her place behind the controls. "I suppose, if you must." He said as he stepped onto the pad. "See you in a couple months, energize." (USS Nimitz - Transporter Room 1 - Lt(jg) Falthgood - 1815) Whatever she said was lost as the beam gripped him, he immediately reappeared on a very similar looking pad in a very similar looking room. Zach scanned the room with his eyes and shook his head, Starfleet Engineers and designers had no sense of style or taste. HE stepped off the PADD and looked at the Mystique's Transporting counter-part. Another female, at least, but much more aesthetically pleasing to the eye. "A distinct improvement." He muttered. "Sir?" "Or maybe not," he said after a moment of consideration. "Ah well, life is imperfect. Lieutenant Falthgood requesting permission to come aboard." "Granted, Sir... welcome aboard the Mystique." "Right, so... what'cha doing on Thursday?" "Sir?" she said, looking confused. "Ah, nothing... Ill catch you later." He stepped out of the room, leaving a very puzzled chief behind him. Once out, he did a couple walking-turnabouts and looked around. "Distasteful, I really should complain to the designers, these colors are all wrong." He sighed, "Ah well." He crossed his arms behind his back and nodded to a passing Ensign. "Computer, where's the Captain?" [Captain Winters is on the Bridge.] "Really? How delightful, a Captain who knows the location of her own bridge. And here I thought that die-hard breed had died out. Who would have guessed?" [Please restate the parameters of your question.] Zach snorted, "Smart-alec computers, remind me to have a very looooong talk with you later." He stepped into a turbolift, "Bridge." He unslug his pack and held it lightly by the strap as he whistled an off-tune. After a few moments, on inspiration, he pulled out his antique pair of Sun-glasses and slipped them on, completing his personal image. He looked at himself briefly in the door's reflection, and adjusted them a trifle bit. After a few more seconds the lift stopped and the doors opened, Zach immediately stepped out. The bridge was a different layout then the Nimitz, more dedicated to Science the Tactical, and a bit smaller to boot. Not that it mattered; his place was in the labs anyway. He took half-a-second to get his bearings, then noticed the blond-head of the Captain and immediately dropped his pack and sprinted to the bridge-railing. Though it might have been funny under different circumstances or with people that knew him, the image of a 7'4 man weighing in at over 260lbs running, putting his rump on the bridge-railing and sliding his way to her side... and promptly falling on his face right at the Captain's feet, silenced the bridge. The only sound he heard, besides the occasional beep of a console, was his own slow groan of "o u c h". He looked up after a few moments, "that... hurt... Needs more... grease." He finally managed, "Zach Falthgood, reporting for duty Captain. Now if you don't mind, I think Ill tour sickbay..." (reply: CO, any) (posted by Trout) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz - Holosuite 7 - Ensign Miles O'Neill - 1755)   "Alrighty. Computer, generate the Normandy invasion, circa 1945." Miles said. He finally got some sleep, and needed something to do. He decided that there was one thing he always wanted to do in the holosuite, and now he could. "Generate a P-51D Mustang fighter, named the Warp Viper, a bit smaller than it's usual size, so it can fit into the holosuite. Generate twice the amount of Me-262's from historical accounts. When I enter the cockpit of the Mustang, begin the program. Save this program under O'Neill Normandy 1." Miles was always a fan of WWII planes, there was always something about them he liked. He entered the cockpit, and the simulation began.   He was barely five minutes into the program when he heard his comm badge beep. "Computer, pause the simulation." He said. Everything around him froze, and he heard Sash's voice through the badge, =/\=There will be a general staff meeting tomorrow morning at 0900. All departments be ready for their reports. Captain Sash.=/\=   ~Okay, let me see....I think I can keep in here 'till 2000 hours, then get some sleep.~ He thought. He did exactly that.   (Reply none, any) (Posted by Matt Krik) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz - Bridge- CO- Captain Devan Sash- 1800) It had been a long and interesting day, for sure. Sash sat on the bridge and watched as the crew worked around him. There was, as usual, a low hum of activity. It was hard to believe the amount of work that went into the bridge. They were still working out the kinks in some of the systems, but it sure was nice to be able to go to warp 9 if they needed to. He ahd already made his tour around the bridge, seeing that everything was functioning. As it was nearly dinner time he decided to call it a night. Before leaving he tapped out a message and sent it out. "There will be a general staff meeting tomorrow morning at 0900. All departments be ready for their reports. Captain Sash." With that sent sash stood up to leave. He looked for Kestra to give her command, and then remembered that she was no longer there. He saw that Lt. Rodriguez ranking officer on the bridge. "Lt. you have the conn." "Aye sir," Rodriguez replied, as Sash stepped onto the turbo lift. (reply all) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – Bridge – SFI/SC – Lt.Cmdr Edward Gideon - 1801) Edward stood at the security station on the opposite side to the tactical. The repairs of the ship had yielded results and he now at least had his own little station on the bridge and he wasn’t going to have to work around Onyx. That was going to make concentration easier to say the least. Edward continued to monitor the internal sensors, with so many repair teams wondering around and not all from the Nimitz he hated the situation. It would be too easy to place bugs or bombs. A lot of the crew were off the ship taking R and R whilst the repairs were going on so it would be the perfect time. The moment they were going to get underway he was going to insist on a thorough scan of the ship just encase anything was out of place. His concentration was fine until the rather loud Lieutenant piped up from the command seat. Glaring at the Lieutenant from his consol he noticed KinKaid and calmed his stare a little. He turned slowly back down to his consol; he continued to listen to the loud Lieutenant that was conversing with the Doctor. As KinKaid seemed to read the pad he waited till the Officer was finished and then spoke. “Lieutenant, How much longer are the little umper lumpers going to be on the Nimitz,” Edward stated then realising majority of the crew wouldn’t have watched the highly entertaining film it was only due to his grandfathers memories that he had any recollection of it. (Reply KinKaid) “Security wise they are a nightmare, but besides my paranoia all is well. Other than Crewman Williams who is going to have me make a visit later for misuse of the replicator. The Nimitz is as quite as a morgue, pardon the bad choice of words,” Edward stated continuing to look at the doctor in the chair. (Reply KinKaid, any) (Posted By Richard) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – Enroute to the Bridge- CMO/2O- Lt. BigWill Kinkaid - 1805) Sickbay finally became operational an hour earlier than what he had expected, but was impress nevertheless. Kinkaid took pride in his work and in making sure his medical staff was doing the job at proficient and professional means to accomplish the task. With his recent position promotion as Second Officer (2O), Kinkaid needed to uphold his new obligation. Kinkaid entered a nearby turbolift. He called out, “Computer, Bridge.” The computer voice answered. [Acknowledged.] (Reply None) (USS Nimitz – the Bridge - CMO/2O- Lt. BigWill Kinkaid - 1806) The turbolift whizzed from Deck 10 to Deck One with ease. The repairs to the lift made the ride a bit smoother. Once at Deck One, the Bridge, the turbolift doors slid opened. Kinkaid stepped out of the lift and onto the Bridge. The activity was something to be in awe of. The crew on the bridge were working at a diligent pace in finalizing the repairs so the ship can return back into action. Kinkaid walked over to the center command chair area. The lieutenant sitting in the Captain’s chair turned and was caught of guard by the presence of Kinkaid. “Second Officer on the bridge!” he said in a loud manner. Kinkaid flinched by the sudden outburst. “As you were, Lt. Rodriguez... is it?” Rodriguez responded, “Aye, sir it is.” Kinkaid looked around from the vantage point of the center chair and his curiosity was starting to peak by all of the activity at each individual station. “Lt. what is the current status of the Nimitz?” Kinkaid said wanting to be up to date on the current status of the ship if something were ever to happen. The lieutenant handed Kinkaid a PADD that contained the requested data. “Thank you.” (Reply Anyone) (Posted by Nathan M. Williams) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – the Bridge- CMO/2O- Lt. BigWill Kinkaid - 1810) After receiving the PADD from Lt. Rodriguez who then returned back to his station, Kinkaid was about to sit down when Lt. Cmdr Gideon spoke up as he approach, “Lieutenant, How much longer are the little umper lumpers going to be on the Nimitz,” ~ Umper lumpers ~ Kinkaid thought for a brief moment hoping Gideon meant the repair teams. He refocused his attention towards Gideon. Kinkaid responded, “Well, according to the latest repair report, the best estimates are sometime tomorrow for the repair teams to have most of the damage control completed.” Kinkaid felt that his presence on the bridge in the center chair might be difficult for some to handle, but he put that out of his mind for the time being. Gideon, still looking at Kinkaid in the chair, continued on by saying, “Security wise they are a nightmare, but besides my paranoia all is well. Other than Crewman Williams who is going to have me make a visit later for misuse of the replicator. The Nimitz is as quite as a morgue; pardon the bad choice of words,” Chuckling to himself by the hyperbole made by Gideon, Kinkaid spoke. “No need to apologize, Lt. Cmdr. The ship does seem to be too quiet for my blood, but I sense in the near future it will be quite active for the ship and crew.” (Reply Gideon, if you want to) (Posted by Nathan M. Williams) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz – the Bridge- CMO/2O- Lt. BigWill Kinkaid - 1812) Being on the bridge sitting in the Captain’s chair of the fleet’s most powerful starship gave Kinkaid a euphoric sense of passion to become a captain himself of a ship of his own. The atmosphere on the bridge was unique in a way that the only thing that Kinkaid had to get use was the interaction of the individual consoles beeping. Kinkaid found it quite relaxing in the center seat with the humming of the main engines vibrating at a particular point, which converged right underneath his position causing a massaging effect. Kinkaid thought, from a medical point of view, that this effect could be useful in some form of medical treatment, but had a second thought that the captain would not allow his chair to be use in that fashion in sickbay. (Reply anyone, if you want to) (Posted by Nathan M. Williams) Stardate:2406.10.28 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward- Assistant Tactical Chief- Ensign Paul Casely - 2118)   Paul walked into the lounge and ordered a drink.  He had heard about these lounges and their spectacular views. It did look impressive, even if it was a view of the starbase. He would have to make a point of coming back when they were out of dock.  Paul knew that he should be resting before the meeting in the morning, but he also knew he was going to have difficulty sleeping.  It was all overwhelming. He was used to the technology, the Academy had all of that, however the fact that he was actually light years away from home was still hard to fathom. The ship was like a living organism... people were everywhere, all of them moving with a sense of purpose, all of them seeming to know each other. At this point, more than at any previous time, Paul felt alone. Not alone in the sense that on this ship he really knew no one... alone in that he had no one who he could really share his accomplisments with. His parents didn't even know, didn't even care, where he was right now.   Paul sighed, best not to think about that it would just serve to depress him. He had a lot to get accustomed to, a lot to learn. He had started going through the tactical capabilities of this craft during his month of travel, but he knew that all starships started "deviating" from the "by the book" configurations almost the moment they left dock. The engineer would find a better way to configure this, the tactical chief would find a more useful way to boost that. By the book didn't always mean much in space, probably one of the reasons it appealed to him.   A quick glance around confirmed that he was the only single party in Ten Forward at this moment. No big shock. He was the new guy on board. It would be awhile before he felt included and part of things. Hopefully he would find his own way "in" sooner rather than later. At the moment he was feeling hungry. Paul glanced over and noticed that it was indeed possible to get food here. Paul got up and started over to get some food.   ~ I wonder if the replicators are programmed make tourtiere here. ~   (Reply anyone, if you want to)   (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.28.10 (USS Nimitz - Bridge - chief TAC Ensign Kateb - 1337) Onyx had been up early enough, and had went training alone letting Edward sleep. When she came back, he was gone but not without leaving her a little breakfast and a love note. She ate, got dressed after a good shower and made her way to work. It wasn't a surprise to see him on the bridge, since there wasn't much to do he had some free time on his hands. He was smiling has he came beside her. “How are you this afternoon?” “I'm fine, I got an excellent morning.” “Good, do you know where id find Tagon?” “The last I know of him is that he was going to the Tactical planning lounge and kinda made his office there. “Very good, most importantly though are you free around 17:00?” “I am... if nothing happens in the mean time. Whatdo you have in mind?” she gave him a smile. “I was thinking we could go for a walk on the holodeck or something like that. Im going blind on paper work and would appreciate the break,” Edward stated smiling leaning on a consol absent minded feeling to relaxed at the moment. With the ship undergoing repairs there wasn’t much for a security officer to do and thankfully no one had decided to breach the peace meaning he was on easy street for a bit. “That is a good idea... A walk on the beach perhaps!?” (Reply from Gideon, anyone) (Posted by Laurence)