>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: You can’t go home again Day: 1 Stardate: 2444.06.01 (Runabout – Rear Cabin - Admiral Remae Ktell – 12:29) (Star fleet Martian Ground Facilities - Officer's Mess - CONN - Ensign (JG) - Ire Williams -12:45) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - TSC – Sec, Ensign Garek Darpeg- 13:45) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - TSC – Sec, Ens JG Rebecca Flagg - 13:48) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - TSC – Sec, Ens,(jg) Garek Darpeg - 13:52) (Castile, C. 1406 Hours, Mars Science Campus/Life Sciences Labs) (Mars base- Science Labs- Generator Annex - Science Officer- Ensign Sekal -1445) (Runabout – Rear Cabin - Admiral Remae Ktell – 15:19) (Runabout – Rear Cabin – CONN – Ensign (J.G.) – Ire Williams – 15:23) (Mars base- Science Labs- Generator Annex - Science Officer- Ensign Sekal -1605) (Peregrine Class Attack Fighter 01 - Cockpit - CONN - Ensign (J.G.) - Ire Williams- 16:17) (Mars base- Science Labs Annex- Science Officer- Ensign Sekal -1633) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4, SECTAC Ensign(jg) Carson Peters, 1831) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 5, Sec/Tac Ensign jg Sanok, 1832) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 5, Sec/Tac Ensign jg, Garek Darpeg 1835) (Starbase - Conference Room - Ensign Jaelle Foxglove - 17:07) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Officer's Mess - Engineering Officer - Ensign JG Keira Merek - 1915) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Personal Quarters – MO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken - 2040) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Williams-Verin Family Quarters – Sec, Ens JG Rebecca Flagg - 21:17 (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Williams-Verin Family Quarters – CONN, ENS JG Trip Williams - 21:19) (Mars Facilities - Officers Mess – CONN - Ensign (J.G) – Ire Williams - 21.29) (Mars Facilities - Officers Mess - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 21.30) (Mars Facilities - Officers Mess – CONN - Ensign (JG) – Ire Williams- 21.33) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 5, Sec/Tac Ensign jg Sanok, 2331) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Runabout – Rear Cabin - Admiral Remae Ktell – 12:29) Ensigns Williams-Verin had a question about the state of Starfleet and the political situation. The Admiral didn’t want them to worry about such concerns, but it was only natural; given the fact that the incident was only a year ago and the inexperienced crew was coming to terms with their new situation. “I'm sorry, Sir, but I'm scared.", she said and it was clear she was. Remae looked around as the runabout flew around their new home, he sat back and crossed his legs to consider the situation, he could just say, it’s their concern but it was, so he attempted to explain: “Do we have the support of Starfleet, as a whole? They are not stopping what we are doing here and we have the support of some of the Federation Council. So we’re going ahead as some of us think that we have lost our way, we need to explore and make scientific discovery our priority but to do that we also need to have the technology to defend ourselves, as needed, we can’t do that if we’re 20 years behind. Perhaps the other races will see this and return, we do not know.”, he said falling into a bit of speech had been saying for many years, before and after the incident. He considered the second part of the Ensign’s question. “Starfleet had caused the incident? Ensign, at this time, we do not know anything other than its effects – I must admit, the investigation into what happened is proceeding slower than I would have expected. As for us? Given the number of resources and time coming in, it seems they are letting us proceed, which is in fact greatly due to the support of our president. Without her, we wouldn’t have come this far.”, he paused for a second. “Let us bureaucrats worry about what’s happening with Earth and don’t worry, I am not going to allow anything to happen to you, to any of you.”, he said smiling. (Star fleet Martian Ground Facilities - Officer's Mess - CONN - Ensign (JG) - Ire Williams -12:45) "It’s a large facility i'm sure the ship is here" Ire thought about what Kental were saying. “That ship will be nice any type of ships will be good but for me I am looking for small craft or fighters.” He paused for a moment “A carrier would be nice. Now if you can find one, even a small escort one that would be good.” (Reply Grek, Trip, Kental) (Reply Grk, Trip, Kental, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - TSC – Sec, Ensign Garek Darpeg- 13:45) Darpeg turned and asked, "What are you doing here?" Ensign Flagg was moving slowly toward him, with a slight smile and said, "I am hear to help." Darpeg's Klingon sense of smell detected sexual pheremones coming from her. He decided against reacting to them since Humans could not control their smell, and most of the time it was bad. "I am trying to get the weapons systems operational." "Well, I do know my way around weapons esp, torpedos. After a serving as an EOD specialist in Starfleet marines before joining the feet." "Then it would be logical for you to lend your aassistance." Darpeg wish that particular Klingon mannerism of male superiority did not come out, but at least it was tinged with logic He saw her flash a bigger smile, and her pheramones indicated she was torn between coworker and potential lover. He began to depend more on Vulcan logic for control as she sontinued, "If I check warheads and you take the launchers, maybe we could get something that would not blow up as we fire." "We only need to blow up what we are aiming at." (Reply Flagg) (posted by Gary) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - TSC – Sec, Ens JG Rebecca Flagg - 13:48) "If I check warheads and you take the launchers, maybe we could get something that would not blow up as we fire." "We only need to blow up what we are aiming at." Rebecca could feel the Klingon domination behind his logic so she knew that she wanted to combine both of them, she squared up to Garek and looked him in the eyes. “Or disable them, we need to make sure that we maintain full control.” (Reply Garek) This was fun for Rebecca and she could have continued for some time but she know that it was not getting the work done. She could not resist one last poke and partly hoped he was going to continue it. “When you done up here, I am sure that I could use some help unless you not happy working on explosives?” (Reply Garek) (posted by Giles PJ) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - TSC – Sec, Ens,(jg) Garek Darpeg - 13:52) Ensign Flagg had implied that they might blow themselves up the moment that the missiles were fired. Darpeg understood it as what the Humans called black humor. He answered in a Vulcan literal way, "We only need to blow up what we are aiming at." She then switched to saying that they might just disable. That worked in the older, kinder Federation, but this new one that they were trying to bring about would have no such luxury. Maybe later, but not now. They would have to master the Vulcan Hello in strategy. "We must make anyone who wants to further weaken the Federation that it will be no longer possible. We must disable only to show that we are capable of mercy, but not obligated to grant it." Flagg seemed to ignore his last comment when she said, “When you done up here, I am sure that I could use some help unless you not happy working on explosives?” Darpeg responded by saying, "Fatigue may cause accidents, making dealing with explosives additionally dangerous." He wanted to see her project, and get to know her as an ally. :"I will be interested in your current project. I may learn from it. He added the last bit to get past her personal shielding, and become better colleagues. Reply Flagg (posted by Gary) (Castile, C. 1406 Hours, Mars Science Campus/Life Sciences Labs) Castile and LaChance came in pushing a cart. LaChance gave a wave to the science officers on duty and Castile held up two repair tickets. "I am looking for an Ensign Verin who requested a repair ticket on some tanks in Life Sciences? This is Crewman LaChance who is here to purge your computer problem. Don't worry he is nicer then he looks." (Verin Response) Castile flashed a smile even though his leg hurt. he could feel the servos in the artifical leg just killing him. "Okay, coudl somebody do me a favor and flush the tanks, we have water filtration up and its going to drain to the Olympus Mons sea. I am also going to need you to sign off the repair ticket Ensign Verin so I can get to work repairing them." LaChance laughed, "Boss that same bug that was in the EMH is here too. Looks like the gel system caught a cold." Castile rubbed his face. "Okay get something from medical to fix the neural system. Your systems are going to be down for two hours while this is flushed. But its routine sirs." He looked at any of the science officers as he strapped on the enviormental suit. "So somebody please sign off on the ticket and I am about to go scrub out a tank. Still beats mining." (response any) (Posted by Robert H) (Mars base- Science Labs- Generator Annex - Science Officer- Ensign Sekal -1445 ) =^= Sir, thank you. We have auxillary power running things, if you want to help, Reroute that power to enviormental controls. I just got air conditioning back up in Operations. getting it in the mess hall would benifit morale and give everybody cleaner water.=^= "Acknowledged, I will do so. Estimated time for start up is 1600." =^=Sir, I also need you to test your SIF containment. Let me know what you get. Because self containment generators should be online.=^= Sekal shook his head. "The backup for the science labs is old but very simple technology which requires some preparation. There is little to nothing that can effect it and it has very little energy bleed over which can occlude the results of very important experiments. In short then the system is working as designed." (Reply: Castille iyw) (Runabout – Rear Cabin - Admiral Remae Ktell – 15:19) "Sir, permission to speak freely?", asked Trip. Remae had taken on the idea of thinking of the Williams’ double act by their preferred name, it was easier on him. Would the Admiral deny, even as Ensign from speaking freely, even if he did, what would be the point? “Always, Ensign.”, he replied. “None of this is adding up to me. Is the fleet in such bad shape without anywhere to place lower-ranking personnel and new graduates that they have to just dump us all here on Mars.”, he said and it was a strong statement but a common one from anyone who had the time to think about their situation? “From your position, Ensign, I bet it is.”, he said but didn’t elaborate more. "I know it’s our job to get this place up to snuff, but it just seems odd. I mean yeah in the old days, we'd all be placed somewhere in the fleet, getting a chance to be mentored under experienced crews. Just seems odd, is all." Remae didn’t reply at this time but allowed the Ensign to continue. "I'm not trying to be disrespectful sir, but we've been attacked on Earth twice now in a year span. So why are we sending our resources to this backwater station when we should be playing offense to reactionary defence?”, he said finishing his training of thought. The Admiral considered the question for a moment. “Have you considered or been aware of what’s happened the past 20 years, Ensign, even since Andoria left the Federation?”, he said and without waiting for a reply, he accessed one of the runabout’s computer screens. “Computer, present the state of the Federation Border as of the year 2420, before the Andorian withdrawal from the Federation.” The map appeared and it showed a large amount of the Alpha Quadrant was dominated by Federation space, planets, stations, exploration, everything that seems normal. “Now, display the next 20 years of starship movements, personnel transfers, academy graduation locations and diplomatic activities.”, he asked the computer. [Information requested requires Alpha-1 Clearance, state identity and code] “Admiral Remae Ktell, Commanding Office of Mars : Gold 9252-Alpha.”, he said to the computer and screen changed again, arrows indicated movement of fleets, borders, personnel movements… all of it showed a clear pattern. From the outside in, the entirety of Starfleet contracted inwards with Earth at this centre. Fleets doubled back towards the core, personnel once shipped out, were shipped in, transports, convoys, diplomatic efforts, starbase construction, everything that Starfleet did, moved inwards towards Earth. 20 years had passed by and the final image showed on the screen. One-quarter of the Federation had gone, and the abandonment of that much of the Federation was shocking, even to him who had seen this data many times. “Ensign, there are many of us who believe that left unchecked, the Federation and the powers who are in charge will cheerfully continue what the last 20 years have shown, the continued contraction of the Federation.”, he said returning to the computer. “Computer, using the past 20 years a guide, continue the simulation.”, he said and the computer happily obliged. The contraction continued, it was accelerating, member worlds left, everything the Federation did stop until, in a year that was a lot closer than many who could have believed, the Federation winked out of existence. “We, and others needed a place away from the core of the politics, a place to slow or stop the contraction of the Federation. I asked for as many Ensigns as I could get my hands on for one reason alone, you all have not been infected by what the contraction has done, you have not listened to same dogma I’ve endured for the past several decades, you are the hope for the restoration of the Federation.”, he said simply before adding, “That’s why you are here and that’s exactly what we’re going to do because if we don’t, the dream of the Federation dies here and now, with this generation. (Reply from Williams-Verin, Williams x 2, Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) Runabout – Rear Cabin – CONN – Ensign (J.G.) – Ire Williams – 15:23) “We, and others needed a place away from the core of the politics, a place to slow or stop the contraction of the Federation. I asked for as many Ensigns as I could get my hands on for one reason alone, you all have not been infected by what the contraction has done, you have not listened to same dogma I’ve endured for the past several decades, you are the hope for the restoration of the Federation.” “That’s why you are here and that’s exactly what we’re going to do because if we don’t, the dream of the Federation dies here and now, with this generation.” Ire sat there taking in all what Ktell had been told and nodded in understanding. “Sir. Do you have a time frame in mind for us to do this? And when do you think we will be expanding out from Mars.” (Reply Ktell) (Reply from Trip, Ktell) (Mars base- Science Labs- Generator Annex - Science Officer- Ensign Sekal -1605) The two hours had expired and more had been required to pull enough current from the solar panel emergency lighting circuit. It was now in readiness and the generator was isolated. The initiator was activated and the generator came to life startling with a low rumble. Sekal waited until the unit had settled into a steady purr then turned his head and watched the junction panel blink to life showing various readings from output power from the generator and rpm to fuel gas pressure, storage volume and power routed to the facility which was currently nil. He initiated the lighting for the labs and the sudden brightness in the room caused him to squint. He lowered the brightness to 60 percent then routed power to the environmental systems until they showed green. The rest of the output for the generator would be available if and when it was needed. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Peregrine Class Attack Fighter 01 - Cockpit - CONN - Ensign (J.G.) - Ire Williams- 16:17) =^=yeah me too. I think I'm gonna try and find the Exeter. Would be pretty sweet to see what dear old dad was up to here=^= “Yes and it would also be good to have more ships.” =^=Yo Ire=^= He watched as Trip’s fighter speed up to Mach 8.5 as he sped past. =^=Eat my dust=^= He grinned. “So that’s how it’s going to be.” He pushed the speed of his faster trying not to over tax his engines. He saw Trip’s fighter in front of him and pushed the fighter faster. He smiled as the ships data was passed into his data port as his mind, he knew exactly how much he could push the engines before the failed. “Ow Trip Eat My Dust.” As he pushed the engines that little bit faster. (Reply Trip) (Reply Trip, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars base- Science Labs Annex- Science Officer- Ensign Sekal -1633) He left the generator after paging thoroughly through the junction panels included information on the power supply system and verifying proper functionality. Once in the hallway with the lighting functioning normally it became readily apparent just how badly the facility was in need of cleaning. Everywhere he looked there was not a place on door or wall not stained red by dust and it had settled on his clothing in streaks due to contact with a variety of objects. Environmental was fully powered now and when operating normally it would keep such contaminants outside but this went far beyond anything reasonable. Tomorrow would be a day for cleaning but that duty would not be performed by the senior officers, they would have much more pressing concerns. When he found a working monitor in the facility he was sending out a message to those who were awaiting assignment. He checked on the storerooms again then proceeded to Lab three. What little equipment that was left was blanketed in thick dust. He left and bypassed the rest of the labs on his way to the front lobby he had passed earlier. The monitor upon the deak had been kept somewhat clean. "Engage computer." =^= Meesa engaged. Awaitsa ordinaire.=^= He gave the computer a look as though it had grown wings and a tail. Eyebrow lifted of course. "Computer, message to be sent to all technicians assigned to the sciences division. Report to the science annex lobby at 0600 for orders tomorrow morning. message will be in printed text, Federation common." =^= Yes Dear. =^= The female voice was quite loud and sultry. "Computer you will not address me as ...dear." He then turned and left the lobby to travel to the Arboretum to find Sienna. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 4, SECTAC Ensign(jg) Carson Peters, 1831) After the meeting with the Admiral had ended and the tour was finished, the Ensigns of the department had all hurried off on their individual errands they'd all planned out for themselves. A few hours into the work Carson had began doing, it occurred to him that he hadn't checked with his colleagues on whether they were doing the same thing he was. They could be doubling up and he would never know. =^=Will Ensigns Darpeg, Flagg, Jackson, and Peters please come to office 5 in the security center?"=^= ~Seems Sanok has had the same thought.~ Carson thought to himself with a wry smile on his face. He didn't immediately respond, he knew Sanok was next door and it would take the other Ensigns a few minutes to gather themselves and get to the meeting. He finished sending the message to the Engineering department that he required a meeting with one of them in the morning and signed it off as politely as he could. He didn't send it to anyone in particular, but tagged in all the senior officers down there, as to not offend anyone. He hoped at least one of them would be able to meet with him, or at the very least send someone capable of answering his questions. They'd undoubedly be one of the busier departments on the base, what with all the repairs and renovations needing completed. (Reply any from Engineering) He turned off the PADD, but took it with him as he exited the office and within seconds entered Sanok's by pressing the buzzer and heading in as the door opened. As he expected, he was the first to arrive, having been in such close proximity when the call came through. He noted that there was only one chair in the office, so he nodded to Sanok and moved around to stand by the wall. "Evening," he said, whilst moving. "All settled in?" he said as he eyed the scorch mark in the corner. ~That explains the weapons hot alert earlier~ Carson thought to himself. (Reply Sanok IYW) After a few minutes the rest of the crew had turned up and Sanok began the meeting by explaining that he was not presuming control of the department, but he thought it useful to gather and discuss rather than all go their seperate ways. "I have studied the personnel files of each ensign assigned here as a senior officer; I am familiar with the basic skills and abilities of each. I also read the official inventory logs for the base. It is logical to say they are not accurate. Having a correct inventory for our department, should be a priority. The admiral will want a full report on this facility as soon as we can prepare one. "Does anyone else wish to say something?" Sanok concluded. Carson agreed with everything that had been said, he had also completed a similar skim of the officer records the day earlier, but hadn't thought to assist in the inventorising of Security equipment which some of the staff had already began completing. "It would be a good idea to have a senior officer, overseeing the inventory count, I agree." Carson said. He then continued after a short breath, "I also took a gander over the files yesterday. I'd like to apologise to you all for taking off like a hare after the meeting with the Admiral, I'm far too used to working solo and need to reintegrate myself into working alongside others. I'd love to spend some time together and get to know you all, but for now, know that my specialism is around base and ship security. This is where my experience sits and I'm more comfortable with the procedures and expectations of that role - whether it be on a ship, base or an away team. I have knowledge in Ship TAC and System defence, however no practical experience in it, so I'd be the first to defer to anyone here with more experience when discussing such matters." Carson finished and looked around, (Reply any present) Once the group had got a better idea of each others strengths and weaknesses, Carson decided to go into depth on what he'd been working on for the afternoon. "I've been working today on inspecting the bases security grid to better understand where it is working and what needs repairing. I've asked for a meeting with Engineering tomorrow to see what sort of timeline we can put together for getting the base fully covered by a comprehensive security sensor grid." (Reply any present IYW) "I'd suggest that until we have the bases sensors fully operational, we implement some security procedures for all base personnel to follow in regards to leaving and entering the base. Knowing where all our people are at any given moment, is going to be an important part of keeping everyone safe. I'd also like to setup Security checkpoints around vital areas of the base for the timebeing and a security escort around the Admiral or any visiting dignataries, or is that going too far?" (Reply any present IYW) "I don't know whether this would be prudent, but it could be feasible idea to split up the enlisted security personnel into task forces under each of our command. This could help with shift rotation and in an emergency gives clear lines of communication and command." (Reply Sanok, Flagg, Darpeg, Jackson) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 5, Sec/Tac Ensign jg Sanok, 1832) Ensign Peters was the first to arrive after Sanok requested the other senior officers meet. "Evening. All settled in?" said Peters. Sanok noticed that Peters glanced at the corner of the wall where the arachnid had been. "Pest control," he said, pointing to the phaser on his desk. The others began to arrive and once all were present, Sanok gave his report, followed by Peters giving his. Peters said, "I've asked for a meeting with engineering tomorrow to see what sort of timeline we can put together for getting the base fully covered by a comprehensive security sensor grid." "Adding to that," said Sanok, "I will be contacting our fighter pilots to discuss the defense perimeter." Peters said, "I'd also like to set up security checkpoints around vital areas of the base for the time being and a security escort around the admiral or any visiting dignitaries, or is that going too far?" "Check points at key areas is a logical and wise idea," said Sanok. "I also thought of the idea of a security presence for Admiral Remae and will be making an appointment to meet with him in the morning." Peters suggested the enlisted security personnel be divided into five groups, with each ensign leading a group. There were 657 enlisted, so having them in smaller groups, would be more efficient. "I agree," said Sanok. "This will also allow each of us to focus on different tasks in restoring the base to full functionality." So far, things were going well. (reply all in security) (posted by Rob) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 5, Sec/Tac Ensign jg, Garek Darpeg 1835) Darpeg listened to Sontal's speech. It sounded like it was coming from a Vulcan who was close to achieving Khol'inar. But he chose to ignore that lack of emotion. When Sontal asked for anyone to say something, Darpeg said, "Since we are all the same rank, I suggest we have a daily or weekly meeting to keep each other abreast of each of our activities. Also, each of us have a strength in each of the major areas of Security. I am strongest in cybersecurity. Now, from what I've seen, Ensign Flagg used to be a Marine, so she she should train and command the ground troops. I could assist her in melee weaponry. In fact, we could all command in one area, and assist in another. That way, we could all get crosstrained and know that area." (Reply any) (Posted by Gary) (Starbase - Conference Room - Ensign Jaelle Foxglove - 17:07) Jaelle took a few minutes to clear a spot as the Admiral took a seat at the table before them. It was a small device one that she stuck under her own chair. once activated a small dampening field activated barely big enough to cover the table and the occupants that were seated around it, but it was enough to keep their conversation private. “Ensigns…”, The Admiral spoke as he took a seat, “What are you doing here?” It was a valid question and one she planned to answer, but the Admiral continued. “Very well – Starfleet Intelligence, fine… where do YOU want to begin?”, he said, sitting back in the chair. Her niece started "Sir I think that we need to do a complete search of the base to see if there are any unwanted devices around. I know it is a large task but necessary as we do not want what we do leaking out to unwanted ears. First areas will be the most sensitive like research and development and the like." Jaelle nodded she was right in a sense operational security was important but there were more pressing concerns, that were time sensitive and needed addressed quickly. It was part of the reason Jaelle was chosen for this mission she had a natural distrust for people. It was one of the reasons she kept to herself at the landing pad. She was watching trying to pick out who was loyal to the cause or who was there in support of another faction. "Sir," Jaelle spoke taking her seat whipping the sliver hair from her face, "The federation as we know it is dead." Her crimson eyes showed no remorse for her blunt remark. "We are here for what was left behind. Mars not only had one of the largest ship yards, but it also had a large experimental research facility. There were experiments that were in the process new technology that if we want to rebuild the federation and become a force in this sector we will need." (reply Rosin, Admiral, iyw) "Also, we are to develop an intelligence network we are to know what are friends and enemies moves and motives are, what new technologies they are working on and how to leverage that information. We are also skilled in target acquisition." Jaelle took a deep breath she was still getting used to the new color of her skin. It felt familiar and at the same time not, like her reflection was not her own. (reply Rosin, Admiral, iyw) "I also want to look into the incident that happened on Earth. There are resources and back channels I have access to that can prove useful to bringing light on what actually happened. Sir, I understand that this is quite a bit to take in, and there is still more to cover. As you know what remains of the federation is behind are ability to defend ourselves is... " She lets the words hang in the air, everyone gathered knew what was at stake. "We must make inroads we need something that we can use to equalize our forces give us a fighting chance. We have to have a hand in having more knowledge then our enemy or the federation is going to fall off the knife edge that it currently is." (reply Rosin, Admiral, iyw.) "Lastly sir," Jaelle looked to Eva then back at the Admiral. "I know your not gonna take this at the face value of an Ensign fresh from academy, and I sure by now you have speculated that I am nothing of that sort. But my past is long and complicated, needless to say I have work in intelligence before and I was not thrilled in the prospect of returning. I have dirtied my hands before for the federation and I am will to do what is necessary to see that we succeed. If you wish to know who and what I am not is the time to ask, this is information I do not offer lightly." (reply Admiral, Eva) (posted by Matthew Locke) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Officer's Mess - Engineering Officer - Ensign JG Keira Merek - 1915) Keira decided on a quick bite to eat before she continued working. She tucked her PADD underneath her arm and approached the food replicator. ~I'll order of the pre-made entree list and save some time.~ She had acquired a taste for Terran food while she was at the academy. That's not accurate. Because her mother had cooked Terran food for her in the past, but just the stuff that was easy to make. It however did not prepare the young Half Romulan for the staggering variety that was actually available on Earth and especially in a city the size of San Francisco. The academy was situated in the North American continent dubbed the "new world" during the European colonial expansion portion of Earth's history. The food palates of the cultures had blended together to such an extent to create something mostly unique. The preparation of food was so important to Terran culture that wars were fought over the two most common seasonings salt and pepper. She ordered General Tao's chicken with fried rice, egg-roll and hot green tea. Which quickly materialized on the pad. She skipped the standard cutlery and grabbed a pair of chopsticks to eat her meal. Keira sat down by herself, though not trying to send off any "leave me alone" vibes. There weren't many on the Officer's mess side but the Crew's mess that she could see through the window reminded her of eating in the academy dining facility and while she was used to consuming meat from days on Caraya IV, as hunting parties would regularly bring game from the jungle. She had never tried something called "Texas Bar-B-Q" until her second year at the academy. Someone had mistaken her for a Vulcan and had made a large commotion over the issue. She took out her PADD while eating and started writing some programs. (Reply any, none needed) (Posted by Todd) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Personal Quarters – MO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken - 2040) Janey placed her glass down and put a comforting hand on Ailynns knee. "I had the exact conversation with your mother when she came back, always concerned she was in your grandmother's shadow. She never was and neither are you. Your mother is very special and very different, but that doesn't make her the only serving Bracken in the Federation. She found her own route and so will you. Now if your father had been here do you honestly think he would let you use that as an excuse for not getting on with the job at hand, let me tell you he wouldn't." Janey let go of her leg and picked up her glass to cover the small tear that had formed at the thought of Mil once again. “It just feels like…whatever I do, wherever I even go, they’re there before me – it’s like…my first day in Med School, the tutor turned round to me in front of everyone and said ‘Ah, another Bracken darkens my doorstep.’ At the Academy, again, first day, ‘Big shoes to fill eh? Seems we need to promote you to Admiral straight away eh?’ “ (Reply Janey) Ailynn sighed once more, and drained the glass in front of her, putting it down before she was tempted to refill it. “She misses you. I know that it’s her that has stopped contacting you, but…she misses your friendship.” (Reply Janey) (Posted by Mark) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Williams-Verin Family Quarters – Sec, Ens JG Rebecca Flagg - 21:17) "I don't need time to think. and I'm sorry." Rebecca looked at him understanding and Just nodded. "I don't have a problem with the one time thing, we all need to feel wanted, to feel whole. I can even learn to be ok with being a booty call. But, the kind of relationship you're proposing, the giving everything without full commitment. Yeah I've been there and it doesn't end well." Trip moved away to the bar, poured himself a shot of bourbon and downed it. He remained silent for a minute. She could have kicked herself, she had miss read Trip and maybe she could have gone for a no strings relationship but there was something about him. There was very few times when she did not know what to say and this was one of them. “I am sorry…” "You know, you enter into a relationship, and half way through, you both decide that to figure out if this is the right fit, you need to date others right." Trip said still facing the bar, "So you continue date, continue to be everything and anything to a person, but you're also free. Free to explore, free to be open to what is coming. Right, and you convince yourself it is a good idea, because you are young, because it doesn't matter, because destiny will keep you together." "But then it happens. Inevitably one becomes more attached than the other. One falls deeper in love, the other revels in the freedom, in the chase. And you sit there, becoming angry, becoming depressed. You fight every urge not to be jealous. Every notion not to spy. Because you hurt, and it sucks, and everything sucks. But you stick it out, even after declaring your love, because she says she is only doing it to be able to feel about you the same way you feel about her. So you stick around, even though it is killing you, even though everyone around you tells you that your sanity dictates you get out. But then she says things like, 'I feel like I am making the wrong choice by not realizing that you are the right choice.' So you cling to hope. Rebecca dropped her head as she watched Trip feeling his hurt, feeling a mix of angered that she had told him and relief that he did not find out what she was like later as it might have been worse. "Then she goes to study abroad right. There is an archaeology program on Bajor that has an exchange with the University of San Francisco, and she decides to go. She asks you to wait for her, to still be there when she gets back. Of course the relationship is still open, and you could move on, break free, leave, find someone new. But the whole time you were free to be with others, you stayed true to her. Because you loved her more than she loved you." Trip tried to hide it, but he was beginning to cry. "So she goes, and you know she is going to date, you know she is going to find romance, but you let it happen, because you think you're great, that no one else like you exists. She has to pick you. Because you think she is the one. Because you love her even though it hurts. And in her first few weeks on Bajor, she meets a guy and they start dating. You find from the grapevine that they are always together. But she still calls you almost every day, still wants you around. 'I just need to know.' she says. 'I want to feel about you, the way you feel about me. But I can't do that if you're the only boyfriend I've ever had.' Bullshit! It's all bullshit!" Trip poured himself another shot and downed it. He then moved away from the bar and sat down at one of the chairs around the ding table. He brought the bottle with him. "So you cling to hope, but it's wrecking you inside. You don't feel like yourself. Her mom calls you to give you hope, saying that she isn't gonna fall for someone she just met, from a different world. You remain polite, even though you know it's bullshit, because you are the children of two worlds, and your dad fell for your mom almost at first sight. But you soldier on, and then the bullet hits. She thinks she's pregnant. You know it's not yours, you haven't seen in her in four months. She still wants you around, and you ask yourself, can you raise someone else's child. But you don't think she is ever going to pick you so you start to gain the courage to leave, the courage to walk away. You find out she is pregnant, and even though you know you could stay, even though you want to, she doesn't give you the sign you are looking for. She isn't willing to commit to you, but she needs you for the emotional support, she wants you for the physical support. She wants you to keep waiting for her. But you are done. Being in an open relationship damn near killed you, and you can't take it anymore. So you tell her there is no hope and you walk away." Trip then took a swig straight from the bottle. Rebecca moved over to the table moving the bottle further away from Trip so that he could not take another swig. Still struggling to find the words that she wanted, she was out of her depth it was a feeling that Rebecca did not like. “I did not realise, I sorry for opening up old feelings. ” "So yeah, I can do a one time fling, I can do an occasional hook up. But I'm not getting emotionally attached, I'm not opening up myself to someone in that way who might be opening up themselves to someone else emotionally as well at the same time. I've been there it absolutely wrecked me, almost left me a cynical mess. And I just can't do that. I'm sorry." Trip then got up and walked back over to the couch. Rebecca on the other side of the couch looking at Trip with concern, making her body open in case Trip wanted a hug but worried about going in for one to help him. “There is one thing I am sure of I not going to leave you alone like this. (reply Trip) Rebecca let out a little smile. She wandered why she was still Rebecca had a feeling the trip was going to be a lot of work and there where easier fish in the sea but she had a feeling about him one that she had not felt many times before. “That is OK, I can do with the no emotional attachment but I think you need a friend and not a booty call right now. ” (reply Trip) (posted by Giles PJ) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities - Williams-Verin Family Quarters – CONN, ENS JG Trip Williams - 21:19) Trip got up and moved from the couch. He then started heading to his room. He turned to face Rebecca. "I'm never alone, I have a sister who can read my thoughts." Reply Flagg iyw) "Look, none of this is your fault. I've just got a lot of issues that I'm working through, didn't know the emotions would be triggered this way. Good to know I guess. Listen I'm sorry. But what you want, and what I'm willing to give, what I am able to give, I don't know if they are compatible." (reply Flagg iyw) "Look I'm sorry, but I am going to have to ask you to leave." (reply Flagg iyw) Trip was clenching his fists, straining to keep himself upright, he was about to have another anxiety attack and he needed to stay upright for just a few moments longer. He entered his room, not even checking to see if Rebecca had left and walked over to his chair and sat down. He listened to see if the main door had opened and as soon as it closed and he fet sure that Rebecca had left he released his fists and began to cry. He wasn't sure what triggered these moments, but they were all related to the incident. Where he felt all of his best friends emotions as she died. Memories are weird and many of them bring not just images but emotions of the past, and whenever he began thinking about her, about Rae, his mind would wander to those moments, to that time, and he would feel everything again. The fear, the loneliness, the emptiness, the anger, the pain, and floods his mind, his heart. As he begins to cry, Trip starts the breathing exercises his mother taught him, to focus, to ground himself. To do that, he needed to figure out who he was. Mars meant a new start for the federation, it also meant a fresh start for him. To do that though, he just needed to be alone for awhile. (reply Flagg iyw, none) (posted by Will Banowsky) (Mars Facilities - Officers Mess – CONN - Ensign (J.G) – Ire Williams - 21.29) Ire waited for Trei to return from the bathroom and rolled the drink around in his hands. She returned and sat beside him. "So tell me about yourself." Ire smiled at her and sipped her drink. “Well there is not a lot to say really. I’m a fleet brat, my parents who were CMO and CO on the Road Runner, a long-range survey vessel and while I they were on long term deployment, I would spend time with my Aunt. I got the bug for flying from her and joined Starfleet as flight ops when I was able.” (Reply Trei) “How about you.” (Reply Trei, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Facilities - Officers Mess - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 21.30) She heard about Ire's desire to fly. She understood that but did not feel the same desire. She always wanted to explore space so she joined Starfleet. Her father made sure she could fight well so she can protect herself. "My life on Betazed growing up was pretty normal. My father Detron made sure I could fight well to protect myself. I chose Counselor mainly because most Betazoids had an affinity for the job and I can use the strong empath ability to better help my patients. You can read my bio but I was a cheerleader all through schooling on Betazed. There probably won't be a need for that here. I also am a trained gymnast." She took a sip of her iced tea and listened for a response. (Reply Ire Williams) (Posted by Edward) (Mars Facilities - Officers Mess – CONN - Ensign (JG) – Ire Williams- 21.33) "My life on Betazed growing up was pretty normal. My father Detron made sure I could fight well to protect myself. I chose Counsellor mainly because most Betazoids had an affinity for the job and I can use the strong empath ability to better help my patients. You can read my bio but I was a cheerleader all through schooling on Betazed. There probably won't be a need for that here. I also am a trained gymnast." He nodded and sipped his drink as he listened to her. “No, I think that cheerleading might not the most relevant ability at the moment, but you never know.” He paused for a moment. “What martial arts are you trained in. I am partial to Mok’bara and a bit of Tai Chi but I really enjoy doing zero-g combat.” (reply Trei) (Reply Trei, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Base, Security Center, Office 5, Sec/Tac Ensign jg Sanok, 2331) After meeting with the other senior officers in security, Sanok returned to his research. There was still much to learn about the others with whom he'd be working. When finished with that, he began reading log entries from past COs and chiefs of security of the Mars facility. When Sanok realized how late it was, he knew he had to finish and go to his personal quarters. He had fallen behind on his meditation techniques for suppressing his emotions. Tomorrow would be a bigger day than today, so he had to complete the last few tasks so he could leave. Sanok accessed the serial numbers of the PADDs assigned to the senior officers. He set up a mass text to send to all of them. To: All senior officers, Mars facility. From: Sec/Tac Ensign jg Sanok. "Following orders and instructions given by Admiral Remae Ktell, from now until further notice, all personnel leaving the grounds of the Mars base, whether to go to another part of the planet, to the orbital base, or to the space dock facilities, must first notify the security department. The destination, purpose, and all personnel going, must be reported. Additionally, while away from the ground base, all personnel must be accompanied at all times by a security escort. When returning to the surface base, all personnel must check in with security. "I realize this may be an inconvenience, but until full and proper security protocols can be implemented, this is necessary. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to contact me any time, day or night, or contact any of the senior officers in the security department. Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated." Sanok pressed the send key. He opened a second text message and input the PADD numbers of its destination. To: Ensigns Ire Williams and Trip Williams. From: Sec/Tac Ensign jg Sanok. "Please schedule to meet with me at your earliest convenience to discuss the Mars defense perimeter." Sanok pressed send. He finished by scheduling an appointment to meet with Admiral Remae. Before turning off his computer, Sanok changed his password, something he intended to do on a daily basis. Standing up, Sanok looked at the corner of the ceiling where the arachnid was. Satisfied that the beast hadn't come back from the dead, he turned off the lights and headed out. (reply none) (posted by Rob)