Exeter Compile 1 Dates: May 26, 2020 to May 31, 2020 Mission: To boldly go, Day -9 to Day -2 Mission: The Flames of Purity, Day 1 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -9 Stardate: 2445.08.24 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars - Williams Family Townhome - Lt. Trip Williams and Civilian Ashyln Williams- 9:00) (Mars - Williams Family Townhome - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Lt. JG Ailynn Bracken - 12:00) (1st Fighter Wing of Mars Complex -FSXO’s Officer - Lt. SG Trip Williams, Ensign Ravok Shara and Ensign Ire Williams- 14:00) (Mars - Schiappareli Park - SPC Ensign Greta Smith / Lieutenant JG - Ire Williams -1530) (Mars Base - CEO’s Office- Lt. SG Trip Williams and Lt. JG Keira Merek - 16:00) (Mars Base - CIO’s Officer- Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Senior Grade Jaelle Foxglove - 17:00) (Mars Complex - FS2O’s Office -Lieutenant JG - Ire Williams -1730) (Mars Base - Medical wing - Exeter FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Mars Ens(sg) Erin Cortez - 1800) (Mars Base - Medical wing - Exeter FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Mars ACMO’s Ens(jg) Gabe Vesper and Ens(jg) Kasian Poldan - 1900) (Mars Base - Security Office - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Junior Grade Paul Sleeford - 20:00) (Mars Base - The Red Sands Tavern - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Junior Grade Dareshaa - 22:00) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -8 Stardate: 2445.08.25 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Complex - 1st Fighter Wing of Mars, FS2O Office - LT. SG Trip Williams - 0900) (Mars Complex - 1st Fighter Wing of Mars, FS2O Office - LT. JG Ire Williams - 0903) (Mars Complex - 1st Fighter Wing of Mars, FS2O Office - LT. SG Trip Williams - 0905) (Earth - Starfleet HQ Geology Lab - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Senior Grade Adala Michaels - 16:00) (Earth, San Fran, HQ - Geology Lab - Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 16:30) (Mars Base - The Red Sands Tavern – Nurse - Ewan McDonald / Master – Maia McDonald- 22:05) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -7 Stardate: 2445.08.26 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Facility – Outside Platform -ACTO Ensign SG Sleeford – 08:45) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform - Commanding Officer Lieutenant Trip Williams – 0900) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0907) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – COO – Lieutenant jg. Ravok Shara– 0908) (Mars Facility - Outside Platform - Chief Tactical Officer Ensign Dareshaa - 0909) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams– 0910) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform - Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 0911) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – CFO – Lieutenant JG – Ire Williams – 0913) (USS Exeter - Transporter Room - ACTO Ensign SG Sleeford - 09:15) (USS Exeter – Deck 03, Room 03-2383 – 2O / CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0930) (USS Exeter – Deck 03, Room 03-2383 – COO - Lieutenant Ravok Shara – 0951) (USS Exeter – Transporter room – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1000) (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1010) (USS Exeter –Sickbay – Nurse – Ewan McDonald– 1026) (USS Exeter – Main Sickbay – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1030) (USS Exeter - Bridge - Commanding Officer Lt. Commander Trip Williams and ACADCO Vice Admiral Duke Williams - 10:31) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1035) (USS Exeter – Personal quarters ACMO – Ensign Kasian Poldan – 1036) (USS Exeter, Deck 7, Counselors Office – Counselor, Ensign Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre – 1040) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – Pilot - Lieutenant JG – Ire – Williams - 1045) (USS Exeter –Sickbay – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper– 1046) (USS Exeter –Sickbay –Nurse – Ewan McDonald – 1047) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1050) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - Nurse – Ewan McDonald - 1053) (USS Exeter – Main Sickbay - Ensign Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre – 1059) (USS Exeter – Main sickbay– ACMO – Ensign Kasian Poldan– 1100) (USS Exeter – Main sickbay– Medical Officer, Ensign SG Kyros Ryelle, MD - 1101) (USS Exeter – Main sickbay– Medical Intern, Ens(jg) Lyssa Wakeman - 1102) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - COUNS, Ens(sg) Jester Lavorre - 1103) (USS Exeter – Main Ward – CMO- Ens Gabe Vesper – 1105) (USS Exeter – Operations - Quartermaster – MCPO Janey ‘Chief’ Brown - 1106) (USS Exeter – CMO Office – CMO – Ens Gabe Vesper – 1107) (USS Exeter – CMO Office – COUNS, Ens(sg) Jester Lavorre – 1109) (USS Exeter – CMO Office –Nurse – Ewan McDonald– 1111) (USS Exeter – CMO Office – Med Intern aEns(jg) LAna Wakeman– 1112) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - MO, Ensign SG, Kyros Ryelle- 1113) (USS Exeter – Deck 13- operations department – COO - Lieutenant Ravok Shara – 11:14) (USS Exeter – Deck 13- operations department – Ensign Rylee Page – 1116) (USS Exeter – Operations - COO – Lieutenant Jg. Ravok- 1119) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - ACTO Ensign SG Sleeford - 11:30) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – Assistant Chief Flight Officer, Ensign Senior Grade Ronnie Winters - 11:31) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – CFO – Lieutenant JG – Ire William - 11:34) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – Shuttle Bay Officer - Ensign JG – Isra Tiar -11.40) (Mars Base - Arboretum - Exeter CO Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO Sienna Williams-Verin - 12:30) (USS Exeter - Deck 8 - CTO Office - Chief Tactical Officer Ensign Dareshaa - 1300) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - CO Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Engineering Intern Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 15:00) (USS Exeter - Observational Viewing Lounge - Engineering Intern Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 16:30) (USS Exeter – Deck 11, Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1633) (USS Exeter - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - Engineering Intern Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 16:36) (USS Exeter – Corridors deck 2-COB-MCPO Erik Knight-2258) (USS Exeter - Bridge – CONN – CFO - Lieutenant JG – Ire – Williams - 23:05) (USS Exeter – Bridge -deck 1-COB-MCPO Erik Knight-2308) (USS Exeter – Bridge – CONN – CFO- Lieutenant JG- Ire Williams - 2310) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -6 Stardate: 2445.08.27 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Junior Officers Quarters - Eng Intern Rissa Williams and Med Intern Lana Wakeman - 0835) (USS Exeter – Intelligence Office– 3O Lieutenant(jg) - Jaelle Foxglove – 1111) (USS Exeter – Bridge– Lieutenant(jg) - Jaelle Foxglove – 1117) (USS Exeter – Spa – Lieutenant(jg) - Jaelle Foxglove – 1130) (USS Exeter – Spa – StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander – 1133) (USS Exeter – Spa – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1139) (USS Exeter – Spa – StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander – 1141) (USS Exeter – Spa – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1144) (USS Exeter – Spa – StratOPS, Ensign SG Billy Alexander– 1147) (USS Exeter – Spa – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1150) (USS Exeter - Main Science Lab - CSO Lt jg Erin Cortez - 1202) (Mars - Red Sands Tavern - CSO Lt jg Erin Cortez - 1215) (Mars Base– Red Sands Tavern – StratOPS Ensign Billy Alexander – 12:16) (Mars – Red Sands Tavern – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1217) (Mars – Red Sands Tavern – StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander – 1218) (Mars – Red Sands Tavern – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1221) (USS Exeter - FO’s Quarters - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and VAdm Aimee Bracken - 2200) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -5 Stardate: 2445.08.28 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams - 0830) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander– 0900) (USS Exeter - Deck 8-Room 8-1225- PO3 Sytuk - 0911) (USS Exeter - Deck 3 - Merek/ Shara shared quarters-COO Lieutenant jg Ravok - 1619) (USS Exeter - Captain’s Personal Quarters- Commanding Officer Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Civilian Ashyln Williams- 18:00) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -4 Stardate: 2445.08.29 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams (SPC)- 10:00) (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Coffee Shop Manager, Vulan Tlurg - 10:29) (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Caity Dubois - 1031) (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams - 1032) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -3 Stardate: 2445.08.30 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Captain’s Ready Room – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1345) (USS Exeter – Captain’s Ready Room –CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams – 1347) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -2 Stardate: 2445.08.31 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter, Quarters - aOPS Ens M'Rurrh - 0055) (USS Exeter, Holodeck 1 - aOPS Ens M'Rurrh - 1358) (USS Exeter, Holodeck 1 - COO- LIEUTENANT jg. Ravok- 1359) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: Unknown Stardate: Unknown >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Gamma Quadrant, Undisclosed Location - The Vessel - 1833) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 1 Stardate: 2445.09.01 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Bridge - Commanding Officer, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0800) (USS Exeter - Bridge- - COO- Lieutenant jg. Ravok - 0802) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 0803) (USS Exeter - Bridge- CONN - CFO- Lieutenant jg – Ire Williams - 0805) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters - Assistant Chief Flight Officer, Ensign Senior Grade Ronnie Winters - 0806) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0820) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Begin Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -9 Stardate: 2445.08.24 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars - Williams Family Townhome - Lt. Trip Williams and Civilian Ashyln Williams- 9:00) It had been an insane morning. Exceeding all his expectations, and from this moment forward his life was going to change. It was a bit of a surprise to him, the fact he was being pegged to lead his own ship, his own crew. But it was real. He never expected it. He was young, still a year out of the academy, a lot left to learn. Besides, he had been the Commanding Officer of the 1st Fighter Wing of Mars for a year, he didn’t expect to leave that position, not this soon anyways. He was excited for the new opportunity, he was excited for the fact the Exeter class was designed by his dad. But there was one thing that made the new job a bit more stressful, his sister. Trip loved his sister dearly, and wanted to do everything he could to be in her life, but with the new job it meant that they would be separated. He wanted to ask her to join his crew, but from what he had heard, she was at the top of of the list to be named First Officer of the Illuminar. How could he stand in the way of her career. He couldn’t, he wouldn’t be able to live with himself if she passed off such a great opportunity just to stick with him. She had done great work on the virus, the Illuminar was a science ship. It made sense. Of course she might have said no anyways. It seemed that she had been a bit more distant lately, and he didn’t truly know why. He had a feeling that it might be because his life was going at a faster pace. He had fallen in love, gotten married, moved out. But hopefully she didn’t think he had moved on. That was something he would never do. Of course he would need to have her over for lunch, just the two of them, a celebration brunch. Just like they had over a year ago when they got their first promotions. Trip smiled as he approached the front door of his new home, a two story townhome in the memorial park district of Ares City. He opened the door and stood in the entryway of his home. He had only lived there for maybe a month, with his darling new bride, Ashlyn. They had just finished unpacking the last box just yesterday, and now, well it might be time to start putting some of those things back into boxes. They both knew that with Trip’s job, that at any point they would have to get up and move. But Trip thought he would have had more time.The 1st Fighter Wing of Mars was growing and clicking, and he assumed they would leave him there. What was the old adage, if it aint broke dont fix it. Though as sad as he was to have to pack again, he was excited for the new opportunity. He entered the living room and sat down on the couch. There was a framed picture from their wedding on the coffee table. They had been married a little over a month. “Ash, are you home?” Trip shouted from his seat. “I umm, I need to tell you something super important.” Ashlyn collapsed the final box and put it aside. Looking at the room around her. It had taken days, weeks to sort everything out into places that she felt things belonged, and now, as she shifted the last time into it’s proper place, an antique Bajoran carving, from her mum, symbolising love, and family. “I’m in the bedroom, I’ll be right through.” Trip waited for Ash to enter and smiled. As soon as she sat down he took a deep breath. “Hey baby.” She leant forward and kissed him. “What is it?” “We’re moving.” Ashlyn sighed, exasperated. “You said you loved this house. If you hated it why didn’t you tell me?” “I l love this house. Kitchen, living room, office, and a dining room downstairs. Three bedrooms upstairs. Small front yard overlooking the park, nice backyard with covered deck and a grill. Yeah, we’re not losing this house.” “It’s not the house? Then where are we moving to?” “Umm, Space, the final frontier.” He said with a smirk. Ashlyn laughed. “You’re an ass.” but she hugged him, she could almost see his nervousness “You know how I had a meeting at HQ this morning and ummm they gave me a ship. The Exeter to be precise. I’m going to be the commanding officer of the ship that my dad designed. And well, my first act as captain is to declare spouses are allowed on board.” “The Exeter? Trip this is your dream…So…” “So we’re moving. To space.” “AAAAAAHHH!” Ashlyn’s face erupted into excitement. She threw her arms around his shoulders and lifted her knees up “Yeah, it’s happening, it’s really happening.” “Are you crazy? You still don’t get it? I’ll move to the gates of who knows where so long as I get to move there with you.” “Well, I hear real estate by the gates of hell is really cheap.” He said with a chuckle. “So...what’s my job?” “Well that’s entirely up to you. There are a lot of recreation facilities on the Exeter, with a lot of civilian staff to run them. I guess if you want, you can pick any job you want. Because knowing you, if you’re not working you’ll get bored and bored Ash, can be mischievous.” She fluttered her eyelashes. “You don’t like mischievous Ash?” Blushing, she stopped being silly. “Yeah I will.” She leant her head on his shoulder. “So then, name your job and I’ll make it happen.” “You said there’s loads of recreation facilities?” Her face was serious, thoughtful. “There’s what, I don’t know 500 people on board?” “Yeah, about 400 crew, 100 civiilian staff.” “So you need someone to oversee the usage of those facilities. That everyone has their slots, and that should some Hi-brow Fleet nonsense hit us then it can be managed?” “What are you saying, that I should just go ahead and give you the job of Director of Recreation and Special Events?” She pulled away from the hug. Her face was the one that her face seemed to fall in when she was thinking; the one that for some reason made her look the most like the Bracken girl she was. “I haven’t seen your spec, but since you mentioned them specifically, then it must be on your mind. That being the case you haven’t yet got anyone to pull it all together and put it out of your mind. YOu mentioned it to me, because you know I have that stupid attention to a single letter’s difference in a whole list. You also need someone who knows where the cracks in systems are, how any VIPs you pull on board can be…”she ran a finger over his pips. “...nudged in your favour.” “Well,” he said with a pause, “That was more detailed than I was thinking, I just wanted to make sure you had enough to do.” He began laughing. “So. Do I get the Job...Captain?” “Well” he said as he kissed her cheek. “I suppose you are qualified for the job.” “Suppose?” she smiled. “Besides, I think that job is probably more exciting than just being the captain’s wife.” “Trip...just being stood by you is crazy exciting enough. Being your wife.” She looked up at him and love filled her eyes, followed by genuine excitement at the prospect of being on board a Fleet ship. “This is happening? I mean, if this is a joke I am sooooo sleeping in the spare room.” Trip smiled. “It’s really happening love, I’ve got my own ship. The boyhood dreams of an 8 year old are coming true.” “James,” She never called him his name, only when she was deadly serious. A habit she’d picked up and copied from her mum. “Are you okay baby?” “Ash,” he said looking at his wife dead in the eyes, “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared out of my mind.” “Well, I’ll be there to hold your hand...and besides. You’ll have an FO who knows you inside out.” “But I haven’t even asked her yet. How did you know I was gonna ask Ailynn?” “You didn’t need to.” She shrugged. “Sometimes a girl just knows.” “And you know me pretty damn well, Mrs. Williams.” Ashlyn’s face erupted into a smile. “I have my moments” “I do want to keep the house though, I’ve really grown to love Mars, love this community. It gives us a home to come back to. I really like the sound of that, you know, a place to come home to that is our own.” “I completely agree. We may be off having adventures together, but...I want to come back.” She answered. “And some day, maybe, if we’re lucky, we’ll have a reason to fill those two extra bedrooms.” Her heart melted, and the love that flowed from there welled in her eyes. Somewhat wickedly, her eyes then twinkled, she lifted her head up and whispered into Trips ear, before pulling out of the hug, and leaving the room. Trip smiled and followed her upstairs. (reply none) (posted by Will and Mark) (Mars - Williams Family Townhome - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Lt. JG Ailynn Bracken - 12:00) Trip was nervous, in a good way. He was going to get his own ship, his own crew, his own mission, and top it off it would be the ship his father designed but never got to finish. He was excited about it, but it also meant he needed to put together a senior staff. He was going to start with his FO. He knew who he wanted, but he wanted to surprise her. So he tricked her by asking her to come over and check out his new home. The new home that he had moved into maybe a month earlier with his new wife. A home they would have to wait to enjoy, but hey, at least it would mean they would have an anchor, a home to go back to. “Ailynn, come in.” He said answering the door. “Welcome to our home, I’m glad we could finally have you over. We’ve just been busy, you know the move, the honeymoon.” T Ailynn stepped inside, and gave her oldest friend a hug, and a quick peck on the cheek. “Trip...this place is gorgeous.” “Hey listen there is something I want to ask you. I’ve ummm, I’ve been transferred to the U.S.S. Exeter..” he paused. “As her captain. We are leaving at the start of the next month. And I need to put together a senior staff.” The change in the atmosphere was sudden, “Okay…” Trip reached into his pocket with his left hand, gripping the small black box tightly in his hand. He then placed the box on the table. “Five years ago, I made a promise to you, and now its time to keep it. Open the box.” He waited for her to open the box holding a single gold pip. Opening the box, she saw the gold pip. She was in two minds about rank. Primarily, she was a doctor, a surgeon, and held such things as whatever rank as secondary. However, she was also competitive, and having the family that she did, and the positions that they now held, she didn’t want to stay on the junior ranks too long. “I want you to be my First officer. You will be Lieutenant Senior Grade Ailynn Bracken effective 2445.08.26, First Officer of the U.S.S. Exeter. Has a nice ring doesn’t it?” She took the pip out and looked at it. “It certainly does.” Her eyes lit up, “All those games as kids and we actually get to do this?” “This is for real, this isn’t an elaborate prank. This is the real deal. But ummm, Sy isn’t coming with.” Ailynn nodded. “That’s…a kind of conversation for later.” She smiled sadly. “I don’t know where you two are at, but she’s going on the Illuminar as First officer. Unfortunately that means y’all will be separated. I’m sorry. I wanted to get bring her on board, but I can’t stand in the way of her career, I can’t ask her to give up a great opportunity like that.” She nodded, and pulled him into a hug. “ Best we don’t talk about it now.” She wanted to open up to him, about how painful it was all going to be, that a relationship that she held close to her heart could potentially be coming to an end. She however couldn’t speak about it at the moment. “Who else?” “Ravok, Ire, Merek, they’re on my target list, I think I want you to recruit the CMO. If that’s ok. Maybe talk to Cortez, I hear she is doing better and maybe a change of scenery and environment will be good for her. It’s been over a year so I think she should be fit for duty. But you know her better than I do.” “Understood. Medics are a cinch, and I’ve read Cortez’ RTU assessment already.” She stepped around the room, admiring the home that Trip and Ash had set up. “The Exeter...I can’t...all those...games...and now?” “ this is real, and its happening, and there is no turning back.” She smiled, a large portion of her soul ablaze. “Second Star to the right...Keep going ‘till morning.” (reply none) (posted by Will and Mark) (1st Fighter Wing of Mars Complex -FSXO’s Officer - Lt. SG Trip Williams, Ensign Ravok Shara and Ensign Ire Williams- 14:00) Trip was smiling, he had just recruited his FO, so now it was time to get together the rest of his senior staff. He was trying to figure out what order to go in, but he knew there were two people he wanted, no, needed to go with him. His brother’s in arms. It was crucial for Trip that both of them go with him, even though it would mean they were leaving the fighter wing, and for Ravok, command of the wing. “Hey guys,” Trip said, his new pip being reflected by the light in Ravok’s office. “Thanks for meeting with me.” " Sure thing " Ravok said with a nod of his head as he sat back down in his chair. “Not a problem Boss.” “Listen, this will be brief, I have a busy day. Anyways. Look I’ll cut to the chase. There is a reason we’re meeting in Ravok’s office, because the FSCO’s office is no longer mine. I’m not the FSCO anymore. I don’t know who the new one will be yet.” ~They are going to give Ravok the FSCO’s position which he deserves~ Ire glanced at Ravok and then looked back at Trip. “Okay.” " I was just starting to like this office too." Ravok laughed . “Look, Ravok, it could very well be you. But before they give you the official offer, I’d like to make you both a counteroffer. I’ve umm, been given command of the Exeter. I’m a ship’s commanding officer now, and I’m putting together a senior staff, and I want both of you on it.” Ravok raised an eyebrow. " Congratulations " ~No way in hell am I staying here on this rock. ~ Ravok thought to himself as he smiled. “Congratulations on getting the Exeter.” “Look, the choice is yours, especially because if you stay here, one of you will be my successor. But if you go on my ship, your duties will not be as great, but the adventure is better. Anyways, first off, my last act as Flight Squadron Commanding Officer is to promote you both to Lieutenant Junior Grade.” Trip then placed two boxes on the desk and opened them, both contained a singular black pip. “You’ve earned it.” Ravok didn't look at the box, but instead kept looking at Trip and crossed his arms,leaning back slightly in his chair. Ire took the box that contained his new rank and took breath. “Thank you.” “Now then, Ravok, I’d like you to be my Chief Operations Officer and Ire, I want you as Chief Flight Officer. If you both accept. Think about it, because you guys are slotted for FSCO and FSXO. It’s not an easy decision. Take your time.” Trip then nodded and headed towards the door. ~Well Ire you could be FSXO and then become FSCO be in charge of the Wing but promotion is not as important as being with friends and I go where my friends go~ Ravok stood up " Stop!" He exclaimed. " Sir.." Ire looked at Trip “It's not a difficult decision.” "Are you sure because it would be a difficult decision for me." Trip said with a smile. " You're crazier than a Vulcan during Pon farr , if you think you're going to walk in here, drop new ranks on my desk and walk out of here…." He paused and smiled " Without letting me accept your offer first...Captain" He smiled, picking up his new pip and slapping it on his uniform rank bar "Thank you.' "Sir, I'd follow you...anywhere. It will be an honor to serve aboard your ship, under your command. " Ravok said proudly Ire smiled and nodded at Ravoks words. “Where you go, we go Sir. It will be an honor to serve under you aboard the Exeter.” "The OG trio, together til the end." Ravok smiled at both of them "But Sir, I must ask. Why Ops?" Ire looked from Ravok to Trip. “Sir would you not want Ravok at the helm?” ~ Because you're at the helm. You goof~ Ravok thought quickly. "Ire, you're a great pilot, but you're a pilot. Its what you do best. But Ravok, he knows a little bit about a lot of things and has managed well overseeing the repair crews of the wing. There is no one else I want in that position." Ravok nodded his head " Thank you for trusting me, and for the chance to serve, Sir." he said extending his hand to his friend, now Captain. Trip shook his hand. “The honor is mine.” “Thank you Sir.“ Ire extended his hand to Trip. Ravok walked back over to his desk. " Now I can finally, formally deny these other requests ." He said looking at Trip. " It took you long enough Sir." He said jokingly Ire rolled his eyes and shook his head as he smiled. (reply none) (posted by Will, Robbie, and Rob) (Mars - Schiappareli Park - SPC Ensign Greta Smith / Lieutenant JG - Ire Williams -1530) Sitting on a bench in the park on Mars, Greta sighed. Noticing her knee was shaking, she placed a hand on it to stop. ~why are you so nervous? This is probably gonna go well, you daft woman~ she thought to herself as she put a hand on her pocket and sighed. Ire dropped his hand which had subconsciously been touching his new lieutenant pips as he walked through the park. He felt his jubilation turn to worry as he spotted Greta sitting on a park bench. He had been trying to work out a way to ask her but she had found the perfect place. The icy hand of doubt began to creep in as his steps took him closer. ~I mean we are about to go into deep space. She might want to start a fresh new posting and every thing~ He reached the bench and smiled at her. “Hey Greta.” Smiling, she looked up at him, "hey yourself. " ~oh no…. He's looking scared.~ He sat down beside her and looked out over the park. “This is a lovely place. I can see why you would want to meet here.” "I love it here. So peaceful. " ~Now here is you opportunity to tell her~ “I have been with Trip and Ravok….~Wimp~....Trip is getting command of the Exeter and he wants Ravok to he his Chief of Ops and me to be his Chief pilot and we both got bumped up to junior LTs…...” His voice trailed away as he looked at her and a blade of worry slammed into his heart. She was worried but trying to hide it and her hands were in her pockets. ~Ow hell we are going to break up. I need to tell her now. This is my opportunity if I don’t do it now I will lose her. But what if she laughs in my face? You know she would not. But it's a big change and with everything else. Stop, STOP DO IT NOW~ “Um Greta……” "Ire, that's amazing. Congratulations!" She replied, kissing him softly on the cheek. ~I have to tell him…~ "Look, I have something I need to tell you." “Me but please you go first.” "I've decided to … make a change." That blade sunk deeper and twisted. ~And here it is. It's not you Ire, it's me~ “Making a change?” "I've moved to tactical." “Moving to Tactical?....” He paused for a second as his brain caught up with the statement. “.....why I thought you loved to fly?” "I do but, with you at the helm, I can't compete." she smiled. “Are you staying on Mars or do you have a ship board post?” "You don't get rid of me that easily, fly boy. I'm heading for the Exeter too." “Ow that’s great we will be on her together.” He paused again, his happiness melting again. “Greta I need to tell you something.” "What?" She replied, her voice trembling for a moment. “Greta I……” "Ire, I have something I want to ask you but you go first." She responded, her hand in the pocket of her Jeans. “Greta we have been together for awhile now……” ~Idot what you are saying~ He reached out and placed one hand on her hand which was still in her jeans pocket and cupped her chin with the other one turning her head to face her. “Greta I love you. Since we have been together I have been the happiest I have ever been. You make me complete….” he frowned slightly realising that he was still babbling and took a calming breath. ~Say it you morone now is your chance~ Ire looked into her eyes. “Greta I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you….Will you marry me?” ~oh…. Oh….~ she thought to herself as she realised she was silent. "Ire…." “Yes Greta….” that blade twisted deeper and he felt like it was about to be ripped out his chest. “....I mean if you don’t want to, it's not a problem. I totally understand.” "Shut up and let me say something. " ~Ow Hell ~ he thought, thinking that he had totally blown his chance. “Yes Greta.” Taking a deep breath, she took his hand and smiled, "I love you. I've never said those words to anyone. I love you. You make me feel safe, feel wanted. You make me the person I am now." “I feel the same way about you.” "Ire Williams… you are the most amazing man I have ever met. You are honest, kind and caring. I would love to spend the rest of my life with you… however…" He just smiled as his heart sored. "I need to ask you a question. " “Yes Greta.” Pulling a small box from her pocket, she handed it to him. "Will you marry me?" “Yes, by the prophets yes but…..” He also pulled out a small box and handed it to her. “.....only if you marry me as well.” A grin flew over her face as she nodded and watched as he placed a gorgeous sparkling but simple ring on her finger. She returned the favour by placing a simple gold band with an inscription on it on his finger. He looked at her as he tried to read it. “What does it mean?” "It's Gaelic. It says cridheachan a ’bualadh mar aon. Hearts beat as one." “That’s so lovely.” "We both were gonna ask each other at the same time…" “Yes we did …..” Ire smiled. “....Well we don’t exactly fit into the old standard norms of man asking the woman to marriage do we?” "Who wants to be normal, Mr Williams?" “Well that is true.” (Reply any) (Posted by Jackie and Robbie) (SPC Greta Smith) (Mars Base - CEO’s Office- Lt. SG Trip Williams and Lt. JG Keira Merek - 16:00) After recruiting Ailynn, Ravok, and Ire, his next recruit would be the beautiful and brilliant Chief Engineering Officer of Mars. He hoped it would be an easy sell because her boyfriend was already on board. But he didn’t know. He had only really interacted with her a few times, mostly double dates with Ravok and Staff meetings. Though she was apparently a hoot to be around at his wedding. “You got a moment Lieutenant,” Trip said as he entered the office. “Won’t take but a few minutes.” "Sure, what's up, Lieutenant?" “I’ll cut to the chase, I’ve been named commanding officer of the Exeter and I need a senior staff. I need an engineer. I’d like you to come with.” Trip then open a black box and placed it on her desk. It contained a single gold pip. “If you accept,” he said with a smile, “You will be promoted to Lieutenant Senior Grade effective 2445.08.26 and serve as second officer. Oh and I already poached your boyfriend’ "I've heard musings about the two ships, hell we've been building them for months." She looked at the small black box. ~ It's nice to be picked, but play it cool.~ "You've got Ravok on board?" She asked rhetorically. “I can give you 24 hours if you want?” "Don't need it. All right, you son of a bitch, I'm in." She said with a grin and offered her hand to shake. Trip shook her hand and smiled, “Ravok always said you were a straight shooter.” " I've got some ideas…" She picked up the black box and palmed it. "Walk with me?" “I knew hiring you was a great idea. Lead the way, Lieutenant, lead the way.” (Reply none) (Posted by Will Banowsky and Todd Holladay) (Mars Base - CIO’s Officer- Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Senior Grade Jaelle Foxglove - 17:00) “You’re a hard woman to track down.” Trip said with a smile as he entered the office of the enigmatic beauty known as Jaelle Foxglove. The woman who Trip’s father once named the murder fairy, but Trip wondered if Foxglove was aware that his Father had told him snippets of her past after seeing her on Mars for the first time. Duke Williams never forgot a face, which was what made him a good professor and a good commandant for Starfleet Academy. She nodded, as she looked up at the man who entered her office. "I didn't know I was lost." “Do you have a moment to chat? I have an important question to ask you, and feel free to say no.” She motioned to a chair across the table before her. “I’ve been given command of the Exeter and I’m putting together a team, and I need strong capable officers. We all have sources, and my sources tell me you are a phenomenal officer, with a lot of experience, not just in intel.. I think I could learn from you, which is why I’m offering you the position of Chief Intelligence Officer and Third Officer. It would mean you would have to leave Mars, and all of this.” He said motioning to the Intel center, “But the fleet could use someone of your calibre out in the galaxy, not behind a desk.” She nodded intrigued. "I see, give me some time to think it over." “You can have 24 hours if you want, but if accepted, it does come with a promotion to Lieutenant Junior Grade effective 2445.08.26, not that rank really matters to you does it?” She smiled slightly with an underlying warth. "Indeed, someone has done their homework." “Like I said, I have an inside source.” Trip then turned to walk to the door. “Oh and by the way.” he paused for dramatic effect. “Thanks for Bartholomew, I’ve had him on my bed ever since I was born" A soft wide smile graced her features. "I'm glad he's been by your side." 'Now I have to accept.' She thought to herself. It was an old habit, making stuffed animals for the new born children on starships she served. "I guess every ship needs a murder fairy." She spoke softly but loud enough to be heard as Trip left her office. Trip smiled, pulled out a small personal communications device from his pocket and sent her a message. The simple text read, “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anybody who you really are. Your secret is safe with me. The amount of times Bartholomew helped me when I was scared of the dark, well, I owe you at least that.” He then walked out the door. Again she nodded if Trip only knew. She remembered leaving stuffed animals next to him and his twin sister Sienna. It was the same day she left the Spectre for her date with destiny, and the mission that would lead her away from the Federation. I was funny how life came full circle. (reply none) (posted by Will Banowsky and Matthew Locke) (Mars Complex - FS2O’s Office - Lieutenant JG - Ire Williams -1730) Ire was crossing the complex still feeling elated about his proposal to Greta. It had been a roller-coaster day and he wanted to take some time to get his mind in order, so he decided to walk back. He could not believe that he was now engaged to Greta, going on the Exeter as its chief pilot and was now a lieutenant. He slowed slightly as a thought came to him. ~I better go and tell Trip as he is the Skipper. If he feels that this is going to be a problem for the ship and crew, I need to tell him now so that if he needs too, he can find a new chief pilot. I also need to tell Ravok but Trip first~ He paused gathering his thoughts before tapping his comm badge. “Lieutenant Williams to Lieutenant Williams” (Reply Trip) “Sorry to bother you. I have something I need to discuss something personal with you and was wondering when would be a good time for you?” (Reply Trip) (Reply Trip, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Base - Medical wing - Exeter FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Mars Ens(sg) Erin Cortez - 1800) Ailynn sat back, in her chair, eyeing the last remaining box on her desk. She smiled happily, the next position she had on her list was that of Chief Science Officer. “Bracken to Ensign Cortez. Report immediately to my office in the hospital please.” Hearing her good friend's voice through the comm, Erin smiled, tapped her combadge and replied, "On my way." A few moments later, Cortez arrived, Ailynn wondered it she’d notice the Senior Lieutenant’s pips that she now wore. “Erin, thank you for coming so promptly.” "Anything for a friend." Erin replied, taking a seat on the opposite side of the desk, wondering if she had been called here to see how she was doing. Her eyes looked at her friend and she kept a slight smile at bay, noting the change in rank. ~I've missed a lot.~ "There’s something I need to tell you. I’ve been transferred to the U.S.S. Exeter..” she paused. “As her First Officer.” Smiling widely, Erin replied, "Wow! Big promotion. Well done, boss lady!" Ailynn smiled. “Thank you. We’re leaving at the start of the next month. And Commander Williams and I need to put together a senior staff.” "Okay…. And you have called me here because….. ?" “Ensign Cortez. I hereby request that you take up the position of Chief Science Officer on the newly launched USS Exeter. The position comes with a promotion to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade.” Erin's eyes blinked at the surprise of the offer and then she smiled, ~I can't pass up the opportunity, not just the promotion and job.~ Taking a breath, she looked at her friend and smiled, "I would be a fool to say no…." “Then it is with the greatest honour that effective stardate 2445.08.26, I hereby promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade, and to the aforementioned position, together with the rights and responsibilities held therein.” She picked up a small box that was on her desk, opened it and removed a single black pip. She stepped forward and added the black pip next to the gold one on Cortez’ chest, and replaced it with the gold. “My deepest congratulations Lieutenant.” Erin smiled as Ailynn sat back down. ~this is going to be too much fun~ she thought to herself ~ "However…." Ailynn raised an eyebrow. “However?” "I can't accept this." Sighing. Ailynn removed the black pip. “I’m so sorry to hear that, may I ask why” "I've been offered another role. Another job if you will." “Another Role?” she replaced the pip back in its box "All this time away from Mars made me realise I need a new direction in my life." Ailynn perched on the edge of the desk, “and this new direction is…?” "I'm moving back to earth in a couple of days. Starting a Tribble farm with a friend." She replied and waited for the penny to drop. Ailynn suppressed a smile. And decided to play along. “Well, in that case, I feel I can’t compete. Your full resignation is accepted and will be forwarded to StarFleet Command forthwith. Good luck.” she knew that her face was smiling deeply, she then burst out laughing. “You daft cow.” Laughing, Erin realised that this was what she had been missing. Laughter and friendship. Once more picking up the box, she lifted the pip out again, and replaced it on Erin’s uniform. “Congratulations...Lieutenant Cortez” "Congratulations to you too, Lieutenant." “Thank you Erin. Senior Lieutenant at that too.” "I noticed. But before I forget, you might want to notify someone about the Tribble I left in your quarters. I say one, I left it an hour ago so, if my maths is right, there's gonna be around 24 in there by now." Ailynn shook her head, laughing. Glad to have Erin round around again. “Been dull around here without you.” Erin's face crinkled as she laughed, "I've missed you, A. I know I needed the time away but I wish I hadn't. I miss this, being silly with a good friend, a sister. " Pulling Erin into a hug, Ailynn smiled warmly “That’s a lovely thing for you to say. I’m due a break, lets grab a coffee.” She grabbed a PADD off her desk “I’ve a couple of things to show you. You will not believe the Quarters for Heads of Section on the Exeter.” "Not as good as First officer quarters I bet?" “The smooth with the rough.” Ailynn said smiling, “Come on.” She then left the Office with her friend alongside, gently conversing and laughing as they made their way down the busy corridor. (Reply none) (Posted by Mark and Jackie) (Mars Base - Medical wing - Exeter FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Mars ACMO’s Ens(jg) Gabe Vesper and Ens(jg) KasianPoldan - 1900) Ailynn smiled deeply as she entered the Hospital that she had helped to rebuild. She wore the rank pips of a senior grade Lieutenant, that Trip had pinned on her earlier, but still wore the blue tunic of a medical officer, she’d change to the red for command later. She and Trip had sat down, and a list of senior officers had been drawn up, it was her duty, her honour to recruit the new Senior Medical Officers for the Exeter. She greeted a few people as they passed each other, and tapped her commbadge, opening a channel. “Bracken to Ensigns Poldan and Vesper. Report to my office in the hospital please.” =/\= on my way =/\= Gabe answered =/\=on my way=/\= Kaz replied A few moments later, both Officers had arrived, standing up out of her chair, she smiled and greeted both of them. “Kaz, Gabe, thank you for coming so promptly.” "Hmm, I didn't realise we had any outstanding medical cases to review?" Gabe was as always a little off at being pulled from his work, it had started to calm down over the last month but every now and then he sounded off. "No, " she answered gently, getting used to Vesper's nature. "No new cases. There’s something I want to ask you. I’ve been transferred to the U.S.S. Exeter..” she paused. “As her First Officer. We are leaving at the start of the next month. And Commander Williams and I need to put together a senior staff.” Gabe nodded his head, there wasn't much to say at this point. Kasians head had been extra fuzzy today he was getting used to it, things still weren't right with him. He was shocked the Trill council allowed him to even return to starfleet. It probably had a lot to do with his mom at this point but that was important right now. Kaz was more confused at why he was here than anything but he remained silent and listened to lynn. “Ensign Vesper. I hereby request that you take up the position of Chief Medical Officer on the newly launched USS Exeter. The position comes with a promotion to the rank of Ensign Senior Grade.” Looking at his sister, he saw something, a look that she had always had, something that must had been their father. After having had the chance to actually research his family history fully he knew this was the right step, a chance to follow in the steps of his family. 'I accept" he said simply. “Then effective 2445.08.26 I hereby promote you to the rank of Ensign Senior Grade, and to the aforementioned position, together with the rights and responsibilities held therein.” She picked up a small box that was on her desk, opened it and removed a single gold pip. She stepped forward and removed the black pip from Vespers chest, and replaced it with the gold. “My deepest congratulations Ensign.” "Thank you" “Ensign Poldan. I hereby request that you take up the position of Assistant Chief Medical Officer on the newly launched USS Exeter. The position comes with a promotion to the rank of Ensign Senior Grade.” Kaz looked at Lynn for probably too long he wanted to scream no he wanted to leave. He had just gotten back not long ago and this new doctor was still out of his comfort zone one that was so different recently. He couldn’t tell her no he didn’t have it in him not right now. “I accept.” he finally managed to get the words out. “Then effective 2445.08.26 I hereby promote you to the rank of Ensign Senior Grade, and to the aforementioned position, together with the rights and responsibilities held therein.” She picked up a small box that was on her desk, opened it and removed a single gold pip. She stepped forward and removed the black pip from Poldan chest, and replaced it with the gold. “My deepest congratulations Ensign.” “Thank you Lieutenant” (Reply none) (Posted by Mark, Mat H and Rich) (Mars Base - Security Office - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Junior Grade Paul Sleeford - 20:00) Sleeford woke and showered, running his and over his face he made a note to visit the base barber for a trim, smiling he reflected on the changes the past year had brought, his first day had been somewhat manic to say the least, murder, insurrection, civil war. It had been an interesting 24 hours. Having been placed on the Investigating team to track down the source of the information leak had led to some interesting discoveries, the officer eventually arrested was so far off the radar that the shock still resonated around the base. Sleeford could still see the look of apoplectic rage on the face of Peters, the station Security Chief,when the man had been brought in. Most of the time since the first two weeks , Sleeford life had fallen into a routine, since he’d been posted to Beta shift command, he’d spent the mornings devising training sessions in either the range, the gym or holosuites, pushing himself harder than the men under him. His fitness had improved and his reliance on the cane lessened, his two affairs had been short, the last one turbulent.. Standing at the security office desk thinking his own thoughts he didn;t hear the approaching footsteps. “Ensign Sleeford,” Trip said as he approached the Security Officer. “Do you have a moment for a quick chat?” Standing straighter Sleeeford nodded, “yes sir, what can i do for you?” “How would you like to transfer to a Starship?” “Starship sir, Which ship?” Sleeford knew of a small fleet being put together, noting specific, just the usual base rumors, “The U.S.S. Exeter is launching within the week and I need to put together a solid crew. It also means, I need to make sure my senior staff is supported and backed up. I’m in need of someone to take the role of Assistant Chief Tactical Officer.” Sleeford nodded, it made sense, mulling the offer over he realised that on Mars it would be a long haul as there where a few in the department, yes it was an easy billet, but like most land based duty stations, promotions came slow, “It will also come with a promotion to Ensign Senior Grade effective 2445.08.24 So what do you say?” “Yes, When do we leave?” Sleeford smiled slightly, the promotion was an additional present, the idea of serving on a ship, off into the wild ‘blue’ yonder is what people joined the feet for. He had to admit that life here at the station was getting a bit dull. (reply none) (posted by Will and Alistair) (Mars Base - The Red Sands Tavern - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Junior Grade Dareshaa - 22:00) Recruiting had been going well. Most of the senior staff had been assembled. The rest of the crew would just be given transfer orders, but for the Senior staff he had been given the freedom to choose who he wanted. He had also managed to recruit his cousin Billy for the Strategic Operations position. The guy was an analyst, and it would be beneficial. His flight officer and assistant Ronnie was also going with him, because she was a good officer and because no one else was able to get his dog to behave quite like she could, which was a must, because he couldn’t leave his dog behind, especially since his sister was the one who gave him the dog. He had also managed to recruit MCPO Erik Knight as Chief of the Board, a solid, hardworking, no BS NCO who had worked with both Trip’s dad and his uncle Thomas at different phases of his career. He came highly recommended. The last piece of the puzzle was his Chief Tactical Officer, and the computer said she was at the Red Sands. She was easy to spot, as not many of the clientele had green skin. “Is this seat taken?” He asked her as he sat down at the bar. Dareshaa had watched the Lt. walk through the doors of the Red Sands, and she kept her eyes on him as he made his way toward her. She hadn’t been on Mars very long, but she was aware of who he was. In fact, he was one of two reasons why she was on Mars in the first place. Up until recently Dareshaa was spending her professional time on Earth. But when she discovered that two new ships were likely to be launching and they both needed crew she slithered her way to Mars. Her hopes were to gain a chance to serve on a ship instead of a stale building on Earth. “I don’t think we’ve ever been properly introduced, my name is Trip, well Lt. Trip Williams to be precise.” Dareshaa gently placed her right palm flat on her chest, to indicate she was speaking of herself. “Dareshaa,” she said softly with a slight bend of her neck forward. “Lt.,” she greeted him. “Listen, I don’t want to cut into your evening, and I’m sure the missus would like me home sooner rather than later. I’m putting together a senior Staff for the U.S.S. Exeter and I need a Chief Tactical Officer with my contacts at Starfleet Security and they recommended you as a bright young officer who could excel and grow.” Dareshaa peered into the eyes of the male officer as if she was trying to read his thoughts. She leaned forward toward him slightly. “Lt, you honor me,” she replied as she locked her hands together and held them against her chest. “So how about it? Do you want to stay on Mars, or travel the stars? If it sweetens the pot, it comes with a promotion to Ensign Senior grade. Effective 2445.08.26” “The answer is yes. I’m not sure how anyone could tell you no, sir.” It seemed as if her plan had now come full circle. Two months of planning paid off. “Well, good that takes care of that.” Trip said smiling, “Welcome aboard I guess.” A genuine smile now on Dareshaa’s face she looked down at her glass. “A toast, Lt.?” She took an empty glass on the table, and poured a small amount of liquid from a clear glass bottle into it and slid it over. “To new adventures, discoveries, and friendships,” she said raising her glass. “To taking names and kicking ass!” “Now, I have to ask, because I need to do my due diligence, your, umm pheromones, won’t be a problem will they?” A sweet chuckle followed her new COs question. “A very common concern, I find.” Dareshaa adjusted her position, placed her elbows on the table, and rested her chin on top of her hands. “I’m well practiced in not overstaying my welcome. Something that comes with experience. Just like any other member of your crew my skills are mine, and I use them appropriately.” “That’s all I wanted to hear.” (reply none) (posted by Will Banowsky and Calvin Capps) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -8 Stardate: 2445.08.25 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Complex - 1st Fighter Wing of Mars, FS2O Office - LT. SG Trip Williams - 0900) Ire had asked Trip to meet with the day before, but Trip had been busy going about his evening recruiting his senior officers and assistant chiefs. He was curious about what Ire wanted to discuss, but he knew it was probably not an emergency, since Ire hadn't indicated. Though in his mind, he was curious if Ire was going to try and get his precious drones on the Exeter, of which Trip was ready to say no. "All right, Ire," Trip said as he sat down across the desk from Ire. "You said you had something to discuss?" (Reply Ire) "And for the record buddy, you're not getting drones." (reply Ire) (reply Ire) (posted by Will) (Mars Complex - 1st Fighter Wing of Mars, FS2O Office - LT. JG Ire Williams - 0903) Ire took the seat across the desk from Trip which he had been indicated in. "All right, Ire," Trip said as he sat down across the desk from Ire. "You said you had something to discuss?" “Yes thank you I know that you are busy getting everything set up for the Exeter departure.” "And for the record buddy, you're not getting drones." Ire grinned at Trip. “But Trip I had plans for the second shuttle bay. We could fit a launch and recovery system in there and with that amount of space would pack at lease two squadrons maybe more of drones.” His grin widened know that he was teasing his friend. The drones had been prickly topic since he had joined the Wing over a year ago and even though they had been integrated into Mars Defence Plan he knew that Trip had never been totally happy with their use. (Reply Trip) “No…okay but there have been whisperings of a drone carrier.” (Reply Trip IYW) He paused and took deep breath. “All drones aside. Me and Greta proposed to each other yesterday and are now engaged to each other. I wanted to tell you first as you are my friend but also my new skipper and especially as you bumped me up to Lt and made me your Chief Pilot. Greta is moving to tactical so she would not be under my command but I wanted to give you opportunity to rethink your option of my position on the Exeter if you feel that there maybe conflicts of interest before the Exeter’s work up properly begins.” (Reply Trip) (Reply Trip, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Complex - 1st Fighter Wing of Mars, FS2O Office - LT. SG Trip Williams - 0905) “No…okay but there have been whisperings of a drone carrier.” "Maybe, but there are at least 10 Starships that have precedence." Trip said with a smile, "And you won't be around to use it." “All drones aside. Me and Greta proposed to each other yesterday and are now engaged to each other. I wanted to tell you first as you are my friend but also my new skipper and especially as you bumped me up to Lt and made me your Chief Pilot. Greta is moving to tactical so she would not be under my command but I wanted to give you opportunity to rethink your option of my position on the Exeter if you feel that there maybe conflicts of interest before the Exeter’s work up properly begins.” "Why would I rethink your position? Do you think I'm going to demote you or ask you to stay on Mars and separate you from your fiance? You know that would make me a hypocrite. I am bringing my wife on board." Trip said with a smile. (reply Ire) "Look, Ire, are you an adult?" (reply Ire) "Is Greta an adult?" (reply Ire) "Do you both intend to act professionally and as adults while members of my crew?" (Reply Ire) "Good, then I don't see it as an issue. I mean yes, both you and Greta are wild cards, but I trust you." (reply Ire) "Now then , is there anything else?" (reply Ire) (reply Ire) (posted by Will) (Mars Base - Geology Lab - Lt. SG Trip Williams and Ensign Senior Grade Adala Michaels - 16:00) Trip entered the geology lab and smiled. Ensign Michaels was exactly where the computer said she would be. He was getting tired, it was late and he kind of wanted to go home and rest. He had grabbed a small sandwich as his dinner but there were still a few more senior staff members he needed to recruit. Thankfully Ailynn was recruiting the CMO, ACMO, and CSO. But he wanted to recruit the ACSO candidate as she had just returned to Mars after a year long assignment at Starfleet HQ in the science department. “Ensign Michaels, you are working late I see. You should probably go home and get some rest. The rocks will be here tomorrow.” Adala laughed at his comment. "I have more rocks in my quarters Sir. I live, eat, and breath them." She glanced at a light blue rock which lay on the table next to her. “Lt. Trip Williams,” Trip said, extending his hand, “I don’t think we’ve had the pleasure of meeting.” "No Sir, I don't believe we have." she said as she shook his hand. "Ensign Adala Michaels, science geek. A pleasure to meet you Sir." “And yes, the rocks will be here tomorrow. But they don’t have to be. I know you just got back to Mars, but how would you like to transfer to the U.S.S. Exeter as Assistant Chief Science Officer?” Adala looked at him as if not hearing him correctly. "Transfer?" She thought about what she'd been working on since leaving Mars and smiled slightly. "How long do I have to think about this Sir?" She was going to accept, but didn't want to appear too eager. Anything to get off the planet and back into space. "You can have 24 hours if you need it, but I hope you say yes." Adala shook her head. "I don't need 24 hours Sir. I made up my mind the minute you asked. “ "Just let me know," Trip said with a smile. Adala held out her hand now. “I accept your offer Sir.” “Well then, you better get your rock collection packed, don’t know if we can take all of them, but you will have a geology lab, all for you.” "Most of these will be sent back home. They are from my personal collection." She picked up the small blue stone. "This one comes with me." “Now then are you ready to rock and roll.” Trip chuckled at his joke. Adala glanced at the rock which seemed to quiver slightly in her hand and laughed. "Nice joke Sir." she nodded. "Ready as ever Sir. It won't take me long to pack and to get stuff ready to send to the ship or send home. All I have are my rocks." “Well if that is the case, I certainly hope you don't forget to replicate some spare clothes.You can’t wear rocks to work.” Trip said with a laugh. He found himself hilarious, but his ex girlfriend Celia would often remark about his sense of humor that she found him neither cute nor funny. Thankfully his wife Ashlyn found him hilarious. Adala laughed. "Oh I have enough clothes Sir, I mean how many uniforms do I need?" She motioned around her with her free hand. "This is my world. I don't get out much. I don't need to." “Any specific project I should know about?” Adala held out her hand that held the blue rock, it seemed to quiver in her palm. "Only this Sir." It's something we've never seen before. I picked it up on one of my many caving and climbing trips off-world. I will have all the information on it sent to both you and your Chief of Science." She smiled slightly as the rock seemed to take in the Lt. and began rocking slightly. "It appears it, she, still haven't figrued out what sex it is or if it has one." This was one of the reasons she’d been back on Earth, one which had been taking up most of her time and energy. “Well make sure you pack it, there is not telling when we might be back.” Trip then excused himself and went back to his recruitment drive. (reply none) (posted by Will and Kathleen) (Earth, San Fran, HQ - Geology Lab - Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 16:30) Adala watched as the Lieutenant left her lab. She sat down at her desk and fell deep in thought. It had been a rough year for her. Coming back to Earth and working on projects for HQ, some she knew she’d have to give up, others she’d be able to continue, she hoped. She wondered who her department head would be. She would be happy to be back in space. Planetside just wasn’t her thing. Thankfully HQ had given her several interesting projects to keep her motivated. She hadn’t had a chance to get bored. The rock she still held in her hand glowed slightly, growing warm and wobbled in her hand. This was one she’d take with her. It was something she had found on one of her climbing excursions. There was something about this stone, almost alive, but not. She’d been studying it for some time, trying to learn of a way to communicate with it, if possible. “I hope I am doing the right thing.” she whispered. And as if in answer a trilling sound came from the rock. She smiled at the response. Maybe this was a sign, she didn’t know. She didn’t have time to think about it because at that moment one of the many techs appeared with a box. “More rocks for you Ma’am.” Adala laughed and stood up, taking the box from the woman. “Thank you, Rocks I don’t mind.” She watched as the tech turned on her heel and exited the lab before turning back to the counter and placing the blue rock next to her work space began sorting through the box she’d just been given. Comparing the contents with the Padd that had been included. (reply none) (posted by Kathleen) (Mars Base - The Red Sands Tavern – Nurse - Ewan McDonald / Master – Maia McDonald- 22:05) Ewan looked over at his sister and smiled. They had not seen each other for what seemed like a long time even though they were both on Mars. He had been working out in the civilian hospital as well as on the base which had kept him busy. Maia on the other hand had been going nonstop for almost a year with getting the Vital Spark ready for launch. Which meant it was nice to get these infrequent opportunities to get together for an evening to catch up. “and then I looked at the wound and I must tell it was………aww.” A shape pain of Maia’s foot slamming into his ankle. “We are having a nice dinner together I don’t need your gory work stories.” “Okay. Then tell me about how your week has been.” “Well we are going to launch the Vital Spark soon.” “Soon? Like before the Exeter and the Illuminar?” “Yes we have been asked to be on standby in case they have any problems and need a tow.” “Yes really think that the Exeter or the Illuminar are really going to need a tow?” Maia smiled and shook her head. “Of course, not but the view of them coming out of drydock is going to be spectacular and I’ll have one of the best seats in the house.” Ewan grinned. Maia had been the Master of the Vital Spark for the last five years and had gotten it when she launched. Now the Vital Spark was in dry dock undergoing refit and updating to its original design as a four nassel high speed courier the only sign that she had been a long range tow and salvage vessel was the two large and powerful tractor beam emitters in her hull which could run of one of the two warp cores if needed. With schematics found in the Mar’s Vault the Utopia Shipyards had removed all the salvage and towing equipment and put her back to her original purpose, which was to travel far and very, very fast. Ewan pulled him self back from the memory. “So, does that mean that you are going to be attached to some specific Admiral?” “No when we are ready to go we will be a floating command be sent where we are needed and not placed under one specific person but we are being attached as a Star Fleet Support Vessel.” “Are you getting a whole fleet crew or mixed?” “I as able to keep a mixed as most of the original crew know her systems better then any but it will be interesting to integrate the two dynamics.” “How does Dad feel about steeling the Vital Spark away from him and going fleet?” She rolled her eyes at him. “Well he’s about a happy as when you arrived here. But he never really wanted the Vital Spark. She was an oddity and ……” “Yes, yes you feel in love with her and pestered dad so much that he relented and got her.” He moved his leg to with stall the incoming kick. “Hay I gave him a very comprehensive out line as why she would be good for the company and she has been worth her weight in gold pressed Latium.” “And now she is being seconded to the Fleet? How did you manage to do that?” “Well there was no way that we were going to get her through her five year refit with in the economic climate so Dad spoke to some friends at the Admiralty who said that they would put her through her refit but only if she could be used as a designated courier ship. There was a slight compromise which is why we have to two tractor beams in case we need to do any towing.” “You said last time we had dinner that they were going to take out the launchers out? Does that mean you are defenceless?” “No, the phaser arrays have been reinstalled, but the Admiralty did not feel that putting an unstable element into a critical situation.” Ewan frowned. “What?” “If we get into trouble we run and as we can run very fast it was thought that us being too heavily armed would make us fight rather than retreat.” “What do that think you are the new Captain Kirk?” “I don’t know but the Vital Spark will get to fly again, and I will be at the helm. Now tell me little brother have you heard the latest from dad and what he heard about Wendy and her new man..……no………….well let me tell you.” (reply any) (Posted by Robbie) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -7 Stardate: 2445.08.26 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Facility – Outside Platform -ACTO Ensign SG Sleeford – 08:45) Sleeford stood with the rest of his new crew mates, it felt strange seeing the Mars 'Crew' separated like it was but each of the two squares where now separate teams, some of the faces he knew, others he would come to know as the day and weeks progressed, as the commodore finished his long speech and pinned the new pips on Sekal and Williams, assigning each a ship to command. As the brass left the podium, Williams walked to stand in front of his crew and gave another speech. As the new CO finished and dismissed the crew Sleeford like the others went to collect his belongings and head to his new home. (posted by Alistair) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform - Commanding Officer Lieutenant Trip Williams – 0900) As the festivities had ended and the crowd was dispersing, Trip gathered the assembled crew of the Exeter for a small briefing. "Some of you know me, some of you don't," Trip said with a smile. "My name is Lieutenant Commander Trip Williams. I am your commanding officer and I am very much looking forward to serving as your captain. For me this is a great honor and a great privilege and I know you will be a great crew. Myself and Lieutenant Bracken are very much looking forward to getting to know you." He paused and smiled, "When my father began putting down the design plans for the Exeter, he was doing it based on a dream he had. It was within the first decade of Andoria leaving and it seemed the federation was in shambles. He wanted to create something that would inspire hope, inspire a new generation of Starfleet officers. He studied design after design of Starship, and he knew that the best thing he could do was reflect on history, reflect on the past. So he began designing the Exeter based on the old design of the Constitution class. For many the Constitution class embodied a special place, image, in Starfleet's history. How many people saw the old Consitution class ships, The Enterprise, the Hood, the Lexington, The Defiant, The Consitution, the Farragut, the Kongo, the Intrepid, and the Exeter, and were filled with hope for a brighter future. It was that ideal, that principle, that my dad poured his heart and soul into, to make the Exeter class a reality. Unfortunately, Utopia Planitia closed before it could be completed. But now, 15 years later, she is done, she is ready and she is ours." Trip began to smile wider, "And so it is up to us, the successors of the brave explorers of Starfleet of yesteryear, to carry on that legacy, carry on that torch, and bring back the hope, ideals, and principles that Starfleet stands for back to the Alpha Quadrant. That is our mission, that is our goal. To be the beacon of hope Starfleet was always meant to be. Those of you who are to be promoted, your promotions are effective as of right now. You should be receiving your quarters assignments via your personal communication devices within the hour. I expect all of you to be moved into your quarters by the end of the 30th and have the ship ready for launch by the first of the next month. So get on board, get settled, and get to work." With a laugh Trip decided to finish his initial briefing. "As a great man once said, Space is the Final Frontier, our mission is not only to bring hope back to the Federation but also to explore strange new worlds. To seek out new life and new civilizations. To boldly go where no one has gone before. And with that being said, dismissed." (reply any) (posted by Will Banowsky) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0907) “If you have a moment sir?” Keira said once the gathered died down she grabbed Ravok to go speak to Trip. (Reply Ravok, Trip) She whispered to Ravok on Trip’s approach. “You had a question for me a couple days ago, this is your answer.” She squeezed his hand. (Reply Trip, Ravok) “Sir, I was wondering your position on Officers sharing quarters and freeing up bunk space.” She said quietly. (Reply Trip, Ravok) “Well, we stay over at each other’s quarters more often than not as it is.” She answered. (Reply Trip, Ravok) “Bunk beds? Truthfully, I stopped making him sleep on the couch several months ago.” She said with a grin. (Reply Trip, Ravok) “No, I won’t hurt your OPS Chief.” She said. (Reply Trip, Ravok) (Posted by Todd) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – COO – Lieutenant jg. Ravok Shara– 0908) “If you have a moment sir?” Keira asked trip. ( reply trip) "What are you doing ?" Ravok questioned. . “You had a question for me a couple days ago, this is your answer.” She said as she squeezed his hand. ~ I had lots of questions. What's for dinner ? Have you seen my boot?~ he thought to himself (Reply Trip, ) “Sir, I was wondering your position on Officers sharing quarters and freeing up bunk space.” She said quietly. Ravok snapped his head and looked at her " Favh?" { romulan for what} (Reply Trip, ) “Well, we stay over at each other’s quarters more often than not as it is.” Keira answered. He nodded his head " Yeah it happens alot" he smiled, but than corrected himself " Staying over that is Sir" (Reply Trip,) “Bunk beds? Truthfully, I stopped making him sleep on the couch several months ago.” She said with a grin. He smirked " Does wonders for my back Sir" Ravok stated (Reply Trip, ) “No, I won’t hurt your OPS Chief.” Keira said. Ravok laughed " Really funny Captain " ( reply trip) ( posted by davis) (Mars Facility - Outside Platform - Chief Tactical Officer Ensign Dareshaa - 0909) Barely an hour ago Dareshaa watched her new Commanding Officer receive his first command. She watched with inspiration as he was granted his promotion and prized ship. A ship that held a personal attachment to him. During the speeches, which were fairly dull and standard, Dareshaa pondered on the thought of rank and positions. The relationship between ones greed and ambition associated with their rank and position was a tricky path to step. A path that Dareshaa found herself on often. She recognized that for her it felt more like greed than ambition. But then again, wasn't her greed just another word for ambition in relation to gaining rank and promotions. Maybe it was the tactic one took in order to receive their accolades. Some choices could be considered bad or even evil, whereas others could be thought of as right, just, or the proper way. For each individual person there was a slightly different track to their current rank and position and her new CO was no different than any other in that regard. Her on the other hand. She felt the way she handled her business was different than most Starfleet Officers including how she applied and graduated from Starfleet Academy and how she made her way to Mars to become the Chief Tactical Officer of the Exeter. Was there really a right way and a wrong way she questioned. She concluded there probably was, but she didn't allow her mind to dwell on that answer for too long. It was time to continue to meet the crew of the Exeter. After all, she would be watching them. There could be nothing better than knowing everyone. (reply none, any) (posted by Calvin Capps) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams– 0910) “If you have a moment sir?” Keira asked trip. "For my Chief Engineer, always." Trip said with a smile. "What are you doing ?" Ravok questioned. . “You had a question for me a couple days ago, this is your answer.” She said as she squeezed his hand. "Umm, is everything okay?" “Sir, I was wondering your position on Officers sharing quarters and freeing up bunk space.” She said quietly. Ravok snapped his head and looked at her " Favh?" { romulan for what} "Well, I mean I guess, I don't necessary see a problem with it. Are y'all planning on moving in together. “Well, we stay over at each other’s quarters more often than not as it is.” Keira answered. He nodded his head " Yeah it happens alot" he smiled, but than corrected himself " Staying over that is Sir" "Well I guess we could get you some stuff for a blanket for, maybe some bunk beds." Trip said with a chuckle. “Bunk beds? Truthfully, I stopped making him sleep on the couch several months ago.” She said with a grin. He smirked " Does wonders for my back Sir" Ravok stated "Well as long as you don't hurt him. We only have one of him." “No, I won’t hurt your OPS Chief.” Keira said. Ravok laughed " Really funny Captain " "Look you've kept it professional for the last year, I have every hope that you will continue to do so onboard the Exeter. But you're adults and I expect you to act that way. You two are essential parts of my senior staff, and I expect you, when you are outside of your quarters, to comport yourselves as model officers. Is that understood?" (Reply Ravok, Keira) "Now then, if there is nothing else, I need to get going." Trip began to walk away. "And don't worry, I'll get you a house warming plant or something. I'm a benevolent captain after all." Trip then laughed as he began to head back inside. ~Those two, they're either going to make my life easy or a lot more interesting.~ (reply Ravok, Keira) (reply Ravok, Keira) (posted by Will) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform - Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 0911) Adala was glad she hadn't had to come back to Mars except for the ceremony and to get her orders. This was the one place she'd been avoiding and had put out of her mind with her work back at HQ. That had been a welcome change to her routine. The only drawback was that she'd been out of touch with everyone, until she ran into Erin, her new department head. She was glad of that at least, this gave her some comfort. She stood in silence as Commander Williams was given command of the ship she'd be serving on, the USS Exeter and Commander Sekai was given command of the USS Illuminar. It was a short ceremony and after she’d joined the rest of the crew for the short briefing by her new CO she slipped back to the hole in the wall that was her quarters to finalize the distribution of her belongings between a shuttle back to Earth and the few items she'd be keeping with her on board the ship. Any of the classified projects she'd been working on had been stowed away and either sent directly to her quarters on board the Exeter or left back on Earth, as it had no reason to be with her if she wasn't under the security of HQ. She was still waiting to hear from HQ about what projects she'd be allowed to continue to work on and what ones she'd be passing on to others. (Reply: None) (Posted by Kathleen) (Mars Facility – Outside Platform – CFO – Lieutenant JG – Ire Williams – 0913) Ire had watched as the Trip was given command of the Exeter and that Sekal was given command Illuminar. He listened to Trips speech afterwards and was excited in the fact that they were going out into the big black again. He had enjoyed being in the Sol system, spending time at the academy had been great for Ire who had not had the opportunity with real interaction with other people. Then getting sent to Mars and joined the Wing. The last year had been exhilarating being in charge of the Void Haunters. Having the responsibility of all those men and woman had been terrifying at first but as time passed, he’s growing understand of what it meant to be in command grew and he was immensely proud of his people. Now a new adventure being at the helm of the Exeter would be fantastic. The Exeter was so big compared to his little fighter. He was exchanging a 20 meter fighter with a 375 meter starship and although the basic flight parameters were the same mass in motion will make a huge difference. He was a fighter pilot not a starship pilot and he was going to have to spend the next few day in the holodecks getting his skills on big ship flying back up to scratch. The last thing he needed was to scratch the hull as they were leaving the dock. He was still a but surprised that he had go the position of Chief Flight Officer rather then Ravok who was the Wings first officer, but Trip had chose him and made his reasons clear. He sighed to him self as he realised that he had been standing by himself as the rest of the crew were departing from Trips chat. He turned and began looking for Greta and as he moved off he wondered if he would be able to fly lucky thirteen one more time before they departed. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter - Transporter Room - ACTO Ensign SG Sleeford - 09:15) Stepping off the platform with the seven other crew members Sleeford nodded to the harassed chief and left the transporter room to find his quarters, as he walked the thronging corridors he glanced at his PADD, finding the right sector on deck three was easy, the harder part , finding the room. entering he fund his gear in a pile. As the door closed Sleeford threw the PADD onto the couch and set about stowing his gear. Whistling as he placed his books on the shelf and his off duty clothes in the compartment. (posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter – Deck 03, Room 03-2383 – 2O / CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0930) It was a very short conversation with the quartermaster to get the room assignment for her and Ravok. Keira was pleased with her fortune just assuming she had beat the rush. She had packed a small bag and put in a work order to have the rest of her things brought up at a later time. Ravok from the brief meeting with the CO had left to finish some operations assignment delegation, and said he would “catch up”. The door swished open on her approach, and she was surprised how spacious it actually was. She unceremoniously dropped her bags at the door as it closed behind her. She quickly moved about the nearly empty space to check everything out, opening every drawer, door, hatch or anything else. She was pleased to see that their windows had a view of the port side nacelle and the bussard collector. She started thinking about where everything would go. Couch, table. Where Venus’s bedding would go, that she would ignore and hop in the bed with Ravok and her. They could hang the Bat’leths on that wall. She could make some Martian iron decorations. “The bed!” she said out loud to herself and ran into the main bed room. She ran and jumped two meters from the bed soaring in the air for a moment with her legs straight back and her arms straight out in a “T”. She landed face down on the bed with a satisfying muffled “pumbf”. The bed satisfactorily absorbed all the force of her landing. She had only a moment to herself before she heard the door opening. (Reply Ravok) “In here.” She said loudly but her face being buried in the bed, it came back muffled. (Reply Ravok) She rolled over onto her side. “I know, right?” she grinned because now she had the opportunity to say, “It’s not much, but it’s got a great view.” (Reply Ravok) “I’m glad you remembered.” She said. “But it does have a great view.” She said pointing out the nearest window. “Can you imagine what that’s going to look like when warp plasma is sent through the warp coils and it lights up?” (Reply Ravok) “No, sadly I still have a lot to do today, I’m sure you do too.” (Reply Ravok) “Rain check until tonight?” she said before giving him a quick kiss. (Reply Ravok) “You, cook? You mean the replicator is cooking?” she said teasing him. (reply Ravok) “You’re on Lieutenant.” She said. “See you tonight.” She said as she left to take the lift to Engineering. (Reply Ravok) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Deck 03, Room 03-2383 – COO - Lieutenant Ravok Shara – 0951) Ravok found the quarters which were to be the joined quarters of Lieutenant Merek and himself. He walked up to the door and the biometric systems scanned him, almost instantly. ~ Well isn't that something? ~ he thought as he entered the quarters. He waited for the door to shut behind him. " Keira ? " he asked out loud. “In here.” She said loudly but her face being buried in the bed, it came back muffled. He heard the sound of her voice with Romulan ears. She was in the bedroom he looked around the quarters, as he walked into the room. " This is pretty cool, brand new everything. The biometric door scanners are nice little touch." he said walking over to the window. " Wow, this what I'm talking about" he said as he rested his arm against the window and and looked out at the view. She rolled over onto her side. “I know, right?” she grinned. “It’s not much, but it’s got a great view.” Ravok looked back at her and laughed. " This definitely better than my view on the Mystique" “I’m glad you remembered.” She said. He smiled. " Of course I remember" “But it does have a great view.” She said pointing out the nearest window. “Can you imagine what that’s going to look like when warp plasma is sent through the warp coils and it lights up?” His heart skipped a beat with excitement " Its gonna be the best. "He said and smiled. " The bed looks comfortable too" he said as he plopped down on it " Let's take a nap" he joked and grinned at her. “No, sadly I still have a lot to do today, I’m sure you do too.” He looked back at the window" Yeah , I know. Would be great though." “Rain check until tonight?” she said before giving him a quick kiss. " Rain check..." he said as he tried to remember the phrase. " Oh yeah , a rain check" he said as he smacked himself lightly on the forehead and laughed. " How about I cook dinner tonight , here " “You, cook? You mean the replicator is cooking?” she said teasing him. " Oh ha ha " he laughed. " You're so funny. No for real I'll make steak , rare just the way you like it and some baked potatoes. Tri...I mean the captain showed be how to make baked potatoes the right away. No more fires. " Ravok said. “You’re on Lieutenant.” She said. “See you tonight.” She said as she left to take the lift to Engineering. " See you later Lieutenant " he replied mocking her. After Keira left he stood up and walked around the quarters. Checking everything out. " The bat'leths would looked great on this wall" he said out loud, but with no one there to hear him ,he was just talking to himself. He looked around for a good spot for Venus' bedding. He laughed " Who am I kidding , she's just gonna jump in bed with her momma..." he said and paused. " I'm seriously out numbered." He spoke once again to himself. Ravok walked to the couch in the common area and sat down and slapped his commbadge " Lieutenant Ravok to all Exeter operations personnel. Please meet me aboard the Exeter on deck 13 in the operations department for a brief meeting today in one hour, the time is currently. 1007. Ravok out" ( reply all exeter ops .spcs included ) ( posted by Davis) (USS Exeter – Transporter room – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1000) Gabe walked down the steps from the Transported pad, his boot hit the deck plating, for a moment he swore he heard the reverberating sound of rubber against the plate but it was in his head. Pushed past by other arriving officers he tried not to be urgent, tried not to go with the flow; he took the moment in. Leaving the room he tried to remember the way to his new home the ships schematics ran through his head, lost he wandered the corridors just soaking the day, the moment in. (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1010) Arriving finally he threw his duffle bag onto the sofa, his stuff was yet to be transferred from Mars there was a long list of things to be moved and he knew there was time. “Peach tea, over ice splash of hibiscus” he ordered from the Replicator, taking his drink he wondered to the window to watch the worker bees make the changes after the shakedown. Always admiring the engineering side of Starfleet a road he sometimes wished he had gone into, but medical was his calling, his home. The last few weeks he knew why, his extended family and paternal side were all medics. Looking at the display he noted the time; he had wanted to get to sickbay before anyone else, he wanted that moment alone in his new domain. Downing the drink he tugged his uniform and left the room (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter –Sickbay – Nurse – Ewan McDonald– 1026) Ewan had literally dumped his duffle bag on his bed the NCO quarters that he saw sharing and headed for sickbay. His usual routine when getting somewhere new was to unpack his sleeping and wash kit and make sure his bed was ready as he might not be getting back to it until extremely late. That was when we was living in an emergency tent with hundreds of patients to treat and doing late nights and early days for weeks was the norm but he was on a star ship in dock and reasoned that he would have time later. Arriving in Sickbay he had realised that things were crazy. He smiled to himself as he gazed around sickbay with engineers and other staff working hard to reach the deadline. ~Okay treat this as a day one MST drop where you have been dumped with all the kit. Your surgeon, anaesthetist and ward nurse have just gone to do that first round of examinations on the patients and you are standing beside 650kg of equipment and stores~ He looked again with a more critical eye and nodded to himself. ~Starfleet sickbays are all designed to a set pattern no matter their configuration lest get started~ He nodded to an orderly as he picked up a box that said medical supplies sickbay gamma five echo. He glanced at the tracker icon that was sitting on the top. “Okay storage locker five third shelf.” He stared at the set of storage lockers along one wall found what he was looking for. As he slid the box into place, he heard raised voices near the open door. “Watch it crewman, you almost knocked me over.” There was a tall man with dark hair he could not see his face as he was talking to a Bolian orderly. “Sorry sir, didn’t see you there.” “Clearly. Dr Vesper, CMO” he said trying to see the rank of the man “Oh, well sorry. The last of the new equipment. Some person wanted bespoke stuff on board.” “I would check the name on the transfer, that person was me, theyre to go in medical storage two, try not to knock anyone else over, sickbay isn’t up and running yet.” He watched as the man named Dr Vesper turned and headed towards an office marked CMO which Ewan presumed was his as he was the CMO. He walked over to the Bolian and gave him a friendly smile. “Don’t worry about it. Everyone is a bit stressed at the moment. Let me give you a hand putting this equipment away.” “Yes. This way.” He followed the cart pushing Bolian who manoeuvred the cart through mass of people and stopped at its appropriate place. Ewan had no idea how the Bolian knew where Storage Two was, but he gave him a hand off loading his cart. He was approached by an Engineer waving a PADD. “Are you in charge here.” “Well umm I work here.” “That will do. Here is a PADD with the updates to the work being done. You can tell the new CMO.” “Ow thanks.” The PADD was thrust into his hand and the Engineer walked off. He scanned the PADD and saw that there was a lot of work, but everything should be done before they departed. He stepped back into main sickbay scanning the PADD. He spotted the Vesper exiting his officer and picking up a tricorder. He gave a mental shrug and headed over to intercept his new boss. “Good Morning Dr Vesper, I am Nurse Ewan McDonald. I have just been given the revised time scale on getting sickbay up and running from Engineering.” (Reply Vesper) (Reply Vesper, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter – Main Sickbay – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1030) Gabes wish had not been granted walking into sickbay he saw the swarm of engineers putting the very last touches to things. Avoiding a large create of supplies being pushed in by an orderly he yelled “Watch it crewman, you almost knocked me over.” “Sorry sir, didn’t see you there.” The bolian replied with their normal brashness “Clearly. Dr Vesper, CMO” he said trying to see the rank of the man “Oh, well sorry. The last of the new equipment. Some person wanted bespoke stuff on board.” “I would check the name on the transfer, that person was me, theyre to go in medical storage two, try not to knock anyone else over, sickbay isn’t up and running yet.” Gabe said turning on his heels and heading through the doorway to his office. (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Bridge - Commanding Officer Lt. Commander Trip Williams and ACADCO Vice Admiral Duke Williams - 10:31) The bridge was silent, perhaps the last time it would ever be this quiet. Trip walked from the turbo lift door to the center of the bridge and took it all in. This was his bridge, not his old tree house that was set up to be a pretend bridge, but the real deal. It was his bridge. No longer was he that little kid playing pretend, soon it would be real. He looked at the center chair, smiled, and sat down. "It's a good fit son." Trip looked over to the ready room door as it opened, out walked an Admiral with a very familiar and friendly face. "Hey Dad, what's up. You stalking me old man?" Trip said with a smile. "No, thought I'd take advantage of being over on Mars and tour the Exeter, I haven't walked her halls since the day they shout down the program. So I just wanted to see what she looked like done." "That it Dad?" "Yes son, that's it, well and I left a box of cookies on your desk, Memaw's secret recipe. Thought you and Ash might appreciate it." "Thanks Dad," Trip said as he smiled as his father approached and sat down in the first officer chair. "I'm proud of you son, you and your sister." Duke said with a calming voice. "I'd be proud of both of you no matter what, but you have both turned into fine young officers, with a bright career, but more importantly, you will both do good in the universe, and to me that is the most important thing." "Yeah, we'll we had good parents." Trip said smiling, "Hey Dad, can I ask you something?" "Do you talk to Sy, ever since she got back from Trill, and since I got married, she's been distant, shutting me out, more than usual, and I just, I just don't know what I did. Or how to fix it." "Son" Duke said looking at his son right in the eyes. "It's not that simple. The fact that Ailynn is your First Officer, rather than the possibility of going with your sister, which, well look, I'm not going to judge you for that, the Brackens are excellent officers and Ailynn is no different. Though you could have handled it in a different way. But its a bit more complicated than that." "What do you mean Dad?" "Look it goes down to personality, to who you are and how you live your life. You both may be twins, but you are both very different people. You were always the more independent one, even as a kid. Always trying to do your own thing, hanging with Ailynn and your other little friends. But as a kid, you always had time for your sister. But then you went to high school and you quickly became a big man on campus, dating, playing baseball. You had a better grasp on who you were. You always felt more human and you embraced it, and that helped you become the outgoing, caring, person you are." "But? Dad there is always a but." "Trip, as you got older, had more activities, you always made time for you sister, but it became less and less, and that weighed on her. You are more human, but she's always been more Betazoid. Her side of the bond is stronger. Her skills her stronger. You don't have the health condition that she has, the allergies she has. Many time she felt like an alien in her own skin. While you were sure of who you were, she needed more time to figure it out. Then you got to Mars and both of your careers took off. And as you spent less time with her, you spent more time with your friends, with Ash, whom I adore. But when your sister got back from Trill, in her eyes, it was almost like she was replaced. And I know Trip, you weren't doing that, you just fell in love. But from her perspective, it was just another way you were moving on from her. You move at different paces, and moving forward is good. But you moved faster than she had ever expected, it caught her off guard." "But I never intended to..." Trip tried to say. Duke stood up and put his hand on Trip's shoulder. "I know son, trust me, sometimes us Williams men, we mean well, but we don't always understand what we do are say effects the ones we are closest to. We have insert foot in mouth disease. You are no different son." "Thanks Dad," Trip said with a laugh. "Son, did you ever tell your sister why you picked Ailynn as your first officer, did you ever mention why you didn't offer her a position on the Exeter." "Umm no, I didn't." "Well there you go kiddo. Sometimes, what we think is obvious, isn't obvious." "Guess you're right." "Talk to her, be honest, and let her know. She just needs to know." "Guess you're right pops." "Of course I'm right, I've learned from my mistakes." "I'll try." Trip said as he stood up. "Listen kiddo, I've reinstated the Academy internship program, placing cadets that meet the requirement qualification on ships in the fleet. I'm placing two on your ship, one in Medical and one in Engineering. They're good kids, and should serve you well. One of them is one of our former fosters. Rissa. I think she'll do well here. Not sure if you two spend much time together, she came to us when you were already in the academy. Get to know the two of them, I'm gonna send you the curriculum requirements for both." "Yes sir," Trip said. "Alright kiddo, I got to finish my tour. You take care of yourself son, I'm proud of you and I love you." "Thanks Dad," Trip said as he hugged his dad, "I love you too." (Reply none) (Posted by Will) (USS Exeter – CMOs Office – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vesper – 1035) Letting out a sigh he looked, there was a small box in the corner of the room, he hadn’t requested anything be sent to the sickbay other than the equipment. Opening the box there was a large soft parcel and on top a photo, the same photo that had caused so much trouble before, this time complete. Gabe laughed and pulled the frame out, he placed it on his new desk; stopping to look at the Risa scene with his half sister, their mothers and Janey. Pulling out the soft package he sat down to open it. Under the ribbon was a card that simply said ‘mum’ sliding off the ribbon and the packaging he saw the teal blue material. Standing to his full length he let the coat drop, examining it there was a faded patch for an old style combadge. Turning the coat inside he saw the uniform allocation –Lt Cmdr M Nicolae 4576391- Laughing to himself he tried it on, the fit was a little short but it didn’t matter, the idea shone through. “Lets get this over with. Computer, activate the EMH” Standing infront of him was a small darker skinned woman “Please state the nature of the medical emergency” her voice of soft with a raspy edge and as she spoke her head accentuated the words. “No emergency, I’m just checking youre working” Gabe said impressed with the upgraded EMH. “Starfleet Regulations state that I am only to be used in an Emergency, my holomatrix and pathways have all been checked by the Engineering team.” The EMH said without a hint of annoyance but more of a tone of mother telling their child not to do something again. “Yes, I know, I have the full report on your diagnostic) ~well I don’t, not even looked at the padds~ “but youre not good to be if you don’t turn on, not that we should be using you often, with a full medical compliment” Gabe blustered through, it wasn’t often he met someone with his bedside manner. “I’ll let this one slide, Ensign. But in the future please remember regulations. Oh and that style lab coat is no longer standard issue” “Yes….computer deactivate the EMH” Gabe said locking eyes with the woman. “No need to be….” The hologram faded away. Looking around he saw some of the medical staff arriving and knew he now needed to start sorting the various watches out and the dreaded crew medicals. Pinning his badge onto the coat he tapped it. “Dr Vespers to all medical and Counseling leads, report to sickbay at 1100” (reply Ryelle, Poldon, Lavorre, any) Acknowledging the calls he closed the comm. Walking through to the sickbay he picked up a tricorder from its holder and placed it into his pocket. Approaching the orderlies he started organising the room. (Reply Ryelle, Poldon, Lavorre, any medical, any) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – Personal quarters ACMO – Ensign Kasian Poldan – 1036) =/\=Vesper to all medical leads, report to sickbay at 1100=/\= Kaz tapped his combadge closing the channel without responding he had only been back a short time but something about Gabe Vespers annoyed the hell of him. He already hated his new assignment and wanted nothing to do with his actual title. His head was pounding all the extra work he was putting in today was draining him. He couldn’t hear Poldan at all he was completely cut off from him. He felt so alone and it scared him so much. Tears filled his eyes as he sat at his desk looking at a picture of his family. Kaz let them time pass in silence only getting up and leaving to make it to sickbay right when the meeting was scheduled to start. (posted by Richard) (USS Exeter, Deck 7, Counselors Office – Counselor, Ensign Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre – 1040) Feeling somewhat jolly that moving day was finally here, Jester was stood surveying her new office. Having just placed a large painting behind her desk, she stood and stared at it, giggled a little and then swiftly moved over to the next box she needed to unpack. =^=Dr Vespers to all medical leads, report to sickbay at 1100=^= Tapping her comm. badge she responded, "Dr. Vespers! I shall see you then! You CAN respond to this message." Feeling pretty dandy with herself, having now spoken to her superior for the first time since she was recruited for the mission aboard the ship she skipped with it back to her desk and began to open it up and decant the golden tipped candlesticks, (posted by Jono) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – Pilot - Lieutenant JG – Ire – Williams - 1045) Ire stood in front of what the inventory said was a Delta Class Shuttlecraft. She was bigger than his fighter Lucky Thirteen, he paused, not his fighter anymore. He pushed that thought to one side and looked back at the sleek aggressive looking craft as he ran a hand over its surface and smiled. “You are very pretty it will be fun to take you out for a spin.” He thought for a moment. ~No it probably wont be you as you will be on the bridge, it might be the Shuttle Bay Officer if I can keep Trips hands off the controls~ “Who is my Shuttle Bay Officer and my Assistant Flight Officer?” ~Come on Ire Trip would have been on this by now~ He looked at the PADD he had been carrying since he had arrived on board. He quickly brought up the information and found that an Ensign Ronnie Winters as his number 2 and Ensign JG Isra Tiar as his Shuttle Bay Officer. ~Okay where can I meet them~ He scanned the ship deck plan on his PADD. ~Okay I don’t have an office, but the shuttle bay flight ops should be empty~ He looked to the row of windows that overlooked the shuttle bay and nodded to himself. He had one quick errand to do be fore meeting his senior team and as headed across the shuttle bay toward the doors he tapped his comm badge. “Lieutenant Williams to Ensigns Winters and Tiar please report to main shuttle bay flight ops at 1130.” (reply Winters, Tiar) (Reply Winters, Tiar, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter –Sickbay – CMO – Ensign Gabe Vespers– 1046) Looking around this time in more detail Gabe was heading to the main ward when a man stopped him. “Good Morning Dr Vesper, I am Nurse Ewan McDonald. I have just been given the revised time scale on getting sickbay up and running from Engineering.” Gabe took the PADD from the man the annoyance once again on his face. "Thank you for being the messenger nurse, I'll make a note with Engineering to ensure future correspondence is given to the correct people, your time is as prescious as mine. I have the clinical leads coming in shortly, general tour of the facility and breakdown of all works to be completed prior to departure. Would you care to join us?" (Reply Mcdonald) "In the mean time I could do with a hand clearing these boxes that have been dumped." Gabe said looking at the PADD "Oh you're kidding! Emergency medkits weren't ready in time for fitting, we'll have to fit them ourselves. 23 decks and God knows how many sections." (Reply McDonald) (Posted by mat) (USS Exeter –Sickbay –Nurse – Ewan McDonald – 1047) "Thank you for being the messenger nurse, I'll make a note with Engineering to ensure future correspondence is given to the correct people, your time is as prescious as mine. I have the clinical leads coming in shortly, general tour of the facility and breakdown of all works to be completed prior to departure. Would you care to join us?" Ewan paused for a moment taken aback by the Vesper’s comment. “Yes Doctor of course.” "In the mean time I could do with a hand clearing these boxes that have been dumped." Ewan nodded as he noticed Vesper looking at the PADD and gave a mental wince. As there was a lot of things on that list that needed to be finished before they left the system or things would get very basic very quickly. "Oh you're kidding! Emergency medkits weren't ready in time for fitting, we'll have to fit them ourselves. 23 decks and God knows how many sections." He nodded and gave a slight smile. “Yes Doctor it is a lot but at least we don’t have to put them together first.” (Reply Vesper) (Reply Vesper, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - CMO - Ens Gabe Vesper - 1050) "Yes Doctor it is a lot but at least we dont have to put them together first" Ewan said with a slight smile "Once again, every cloud Nurse. You are correct the packs are made up, we just need to find them." (Reply McDonald iyw) as the two officers moved around sickbay working through the boxes, putting away the equipment they could find; the doors opened and Gabe became aware of someone coming up to him "GOOD day! Morning you all, I'm Ensign Lavorre at YOUR service." Gabe looked at the green officer, he smile would be infectious if he had time to smile ~wonderful, an Orion, this should be interesting. ~ “Good Morning Ensign Lavorre, ships counsellor yes?” (Reply Lavorre) “We’re just waiting for the rest of the medical staff to arrive, this is Nurse McDonald, he was in the wrong place at the right time so will be joining us, he was also the tempory liason to engineering for about 30 seconds.” Gabe laughed a little at his own joke (Reply Lavorre, McDonald) As the officers spoke Gabe spotted Dr Poldan arrive “Excuse me a moment” Heading off Poldan he took him slightly to one side “Dr Poldan, Dr Vesper excuse the abrupt welcome I was looking at service records so I recognised your face. Just a quick note, when a superior officer contacts you, its generally considered respectiable to reply; shall we?” (Reply Poldan) As the two lead officers returned to the small group Gabe noted that no one seemed to understand the instruction to arrive at 11am, other than the Lavorre. “Ok everyone, a fair bit to get through. Welcome to sickbay, what seems to be the forgotten world of shakedowns. There is a lot of equipment that has been dumped and needs to be put away, Nurse McDonald has made a start on that, so thank you. I would like the nurse to continue his work and lead the ordleries in clearing the triage area once weve finsished the tour” (Reply McDonald) “Shall we?” Gabe pointed to the door off the room they were in. (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - Nurse – Ewan McDonald - 1053) "Once again, every cloud Nurse. You are correct the packs are made up, we just need to find them." Ewan nodded. “Yes Doctor I am sure its here some where.” "GOOD day! Morning you all, I'm Ensign Lavorre at YOUR service." Ewan followed Vesper’s gase and saw an Orion heading towards them. “Good Morning Ensign Lavorre, ships counsellor yes?” "Correct on that one- Sir?" “We’re just waiting for the rest of the medical staff to arrive, this is Nurse McDonald, he was in the wrong place at the right time so will be joining us, he was also the tempory liason to engineering for about 30 seconds.” "An absolute pleasure to meet YOU Nurse McDonald." “You too Ma’am.” “Excuse me a moment” Vesper moved away to talk to another person and Ewan before joining them again. “Ok everyone, a fair bit to get through. Welcome to sickbay, what seems to be the forgotten world of shakedowns. There is a lot of equipment that has been dumped and needs to be put away, Nurse McDonald has made a start on that, so thank you. I would like the nurse to continue his work and lead the orderlies in clearing the triage area once we’ve finished the tour” “I’ll get on to it when we finish sir.” “Shall we?” Ewan nodded and then followed the others. (posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter – Main Sickbay - Ensign Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre – 1059) Not wanting to be late to her first ever meeting, she skipped along the corridors of the Exeter, saying 'hello' whenever she passed anyone with a huge grin on her face. As she got to the doors of sickbay, she continued to skip and pressed on in as the doors opened coming to a stop just inside as she noticed a few people gathering. "GOOD day! Morning you all, I'm Ensign Lavorre at YOUR service." She looked around the group with smiling constantly. Whilst standing there, she thought back to what one of the guards had said when they had delivered the painting she'd put up in the office and wondered the meaning behind him asking why she had a phallic painting. She might need to bring him in for an evaluation. (Reply all medical leads) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (USS Exeter – Main sickbay– ACMO – Ensign Kasian Poldan– 1100) Kasian walked into the room that looked like a mess. Nothing seemed to be in the right place or did it even have a home. He walked around dodging the people working till he found the rest of the medical staff. He didn’t say anything as he joined the group. (Reply any medical) (Posted by Richard) (USS Exeter – Main sickbay– Medical Officer, Ensign SG Kyros Ryelle, MD - 1101) Ryelle arrived in sickbay for the meeting of medical staff, and as he looked around at those assembling there were some familiar faces, and some new. The Chief Medical Officer was Dr. Gabriel Vesper, who was a 1/4 Bajoran, but unlike some of the other Human/Bajoran hybrids that were on the crew, Gabe's ridges were visible rather than subdermal. Then of course there was Dr. Poldan, the Trill. He had seen both of them in action over the course of the last year and they were both phenomenal doctors and was looking forward to continue working with them. Then of course there was the new comer. He had not had a chance to meet her yet, but just looking at the Orion officer, he could only describe the smile on her face as one, according to an old earth song, possessing a pocket full of sunshine. "Dr. Kyros reporting in as ordered sir." (reply Vesper) (reply Vesper, Med team) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Main sickbay– Medical Intern, Ens(jg) Lyssa Wakeman - 1102) Lyssa trembled slightly as she approached the room where the Medical staff meeting was being held. She quietly entered the room, seeing the diversity of the other medical staff, some of whom from peoples who not that long ago, would have never worked together. “Forgive Me Sirs, won’t happen again.” (reply Vesper, Med team.) (posted by Mark) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - COUNS, Ens(sg) Jester Lavorre - 1103) “Good Morning Ensign Lavorre, ships counsellor yes?” the CMO replied in what seemed to be a rather sullen tone. "Correct on that one- Sir?" she winked at him and took a seat whilst waiting. “We’re just waiting for the rest of the medical staff to arrive, this is Nurse McDonald, he was in the wrong place at the right time so will be joining us, he was also the tempory liason to engineering for about 30 seconds.” Gabe laughed and so did she, happy to see the man had a sense of humor afterall. She continued laughing until realising everyone else had stopped and then cleared her throat. Not really understanding the joke either, hadn't have helped. "An absolute pleasure to meet YOU Nurse McDonald." (Reply McDonald iyw) (posted by Jono) (USS Exeter – Main Ward – CMO- Ens Gabe Vesper – 1105) “We are lucky in a way to be given an updated, more spacious sickbay than ships normally this size. As you enter you go into the main triage area, this is the ward more of a recovery area, its quieter better suited for recovery. Through that room is the main surgical area” He stepped aside to allow the officer to look “Through here and looping back to the main triage is the CMO office and through those doors are the labs, morgue and medical storage areas. You may notice the lay out is similar to the old Galaxy Class design, a little more compact but more spacious than the current designs. Now, to business” Gabe said as he lead the team into the office to be free of the mess (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – Operations - Quartermaster – MCPO Janey ‘Chief’ Brown - 1106) Janey pushed past the officers crowding the hall ways, she had opted this morning for the overall working uniform, knowing that she was already up to her neck in work. Carrying the various different PADDs she needed, crew requests, transfers, repair lists and quarter assignments she huffed her way along. ~call us to a meeting, the first day, all hell is breaking loose and im in a meeting, god I miss the old days~ Her normal calm and happy exterior had clearly been replaced with an aged and badly tempered oldwoman. Walking into the room she grabbed a drink from the replicator and sat. The chief of operations finally finished speaking “Sir, if I may?” (Reply Shara) Nrpg: assuming yes RPG “Sir, I’ve been going over the crew alloacations, there seems to be some officers sharing quarters that don’t need to, am I to assume that this is correct and not an oversight? Only I wouldn’t want the Quartnermasters dpt to be pulled into some sort of argument.” (reply Shara) “Very well I’ll note it. Also, you asked for the meeting to start at 1107, you didn’t start until 1114 nothing more than an observation sir but can we assume that punctuality will be required in the future; I’ve set up many ships in my time in the service and it really is important to the smooth operations of the ship that we stick to what is requested. All our time is precious, sir.” Janey tried not to be off but the green officers were already showing. (Reply Shara) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – CMO Office – CMO – Ens Gabe Vesper – 1107) “Help yourselves to drinks, we’re gonna need it” he said getting himself a peach tea. “on board are about 400 officers all transferring across the next few days, Utopia crews will start to depart hopefully soon. We need to complete their medicals, check the records are up to date; any officer transferring onto the ship needs their medical done prior to departure. Nobody likes them I know, but this will be quick and simple, a mere walk in the park, everyone should be within their timeframes so wont need a full physical. I would like to kick them off tomorrow at 0800 hours Dr Poldan, if you could arrange to break down the crew so we all have a manageable workload?” (Reply Poldan) “Thank you, Nurse McDonald, you have until 0600 tomorrow to have the equipment, triage and ward cleared away. You can use the auxiliary rooms for storage and working areas if you need.” (Reply McDonald) “Dr Ryelle and Intern Wakeman. It appears that the emergency med kits have arrived on the ship but were too late to be fitted. I need you both to work with a team and ensure they go to the correct places, you’ll find them somewhere I cant impress on you the importance of need to make sure each of the 23 decks have medkits. Starfleet and the Federation being what it is now we will no doubt have some trouble to run into.” (Reply Ryelle and Wakeman) “Counsellor, I’ll let you work out your own schedule, but I would appreciate and update 0900hrs tomorrow where and what your plans are, I would also like to see you on a private matter 1800hrs this evening?” (Reply Lavorre) Nrpg: room for more RPG: “Very well, I will be down in operations and Engineering kicking a stink up since the two medical consoles havnt been fitted, we’re to have one in each ward, and there is a list as long as my arm of stuff not completed. Any questions?” (Reply any) Vesper sipped his tea (Reply Lavorre, McDonalds, Poldan, Ryelle, Wakeman, any) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter – CMO Office – COUNS, Ens(sg) Jester Lavorre – 1109) The CMO had given them a very brief tour through Sickbay and then lead them to his office, offering them drinks Jester turned and grabbed herself one following the mans lead. She then sat herself towards the back of the group so she could gain any insight into her new colleagues as they spoke and discussed shift patterns, workloads and generally met up for the first time. “Counsellor, I’ll let you work out your own schedule, but I would appreciate and update 0900hrs tomorrow where and what your plans are, I would also like to see you on a private matter 1800hrs this evening?” She smiled a big smile, nodded, "This is much appreciated! I MUST say, after listening to you all here and now, I'm extremely happy to be working with you all. This team is THE team." looking between each and everyone one of them, "as ships Counselor my hours will no doubt shift dependant on appointments. As they say, my door is always OPEN. Unless it is shut." and she winked. Leaving a little gap before continuing whilst pulling her padd to her, "I will book you in for 6pm now, Doctor." (Reply Vesper iyw) The meeting then continued for a brief amount of time before ending. (Reply any present) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Jestayre "Jester" Lavorre) (USS Exeter – CMO Office –Nurse – Ewan McDonald– 1111) Ewan followed the group around the main ward and then ended in the CMO’s office. “Help yourselves to drinks, we’re gonna need it.” Ewan shook his head and moved towards on corner of the office. “on board are about 400 officers all transferring across the next few days, Utopia crews will start to depart hopefully soon. We need to complete their medicals, check the records are up to date; any officer transferring onto the ship needs their medical done prior to departure. Nobody likes them I know, but this will be quick and simple, a mere walk in the park, everyone should be within their timeframes so wont need a full physical. I would like to kick them off tomorrow at 0800 hours Dr Poldan, if you could arrange to break down the crew so we all have a manageable workload?” (Reply Poldan) “Thank you, Nurse McDonald, you have until 0600 tomorrow to have the equipment, triage and ward cleared away. You can use the auxiliary rooms for storage and working areas if you need.” “Yes Doctor.” “Dr Ryelle and Intern Wakeman. It appears that the emergency med kits have arrived on the ship but were too late to be fitted. I need you both to work with a team and ensure they go to the correct places, you’ll find them somewhere I cant impress on you the importance of need to make sure each of the 23 decks have medkits. Starfleet and the Federation being what it is now we will no doubt have some trouble to run into.” (Reply Ryelle and Wakeman) “Counsellor, I’ll let you work out your own schedule, but I would appreciate and update 0900hrs tomorrow where and what your plans are, I would also like to see you on a private matter 1800hrs this evening?” "This is much appreciated! I MUST say, after listening to you all here and now, I'm extremely happy to be working with you all. This team is THE team." looking between each and everyone one of them, "as ships Counselor my hours will no doubt shift dependant on appointments. As they say, my door is always OPEN. Unless it is shut." "I will book you in for 6pm now, Doctor." “Very well, I will be down in operations and Engineering kicking a stink up since the two medical consoles havnt been fitted, we’re to have one in each ward, and there is a list as long as my arm of stuff not completed. Any questions?” (Reply any) Vesper sipped his tea (Reply Lavorre, Vesper, Poldan, Ryelle, Wakeman, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter – CMO Office – Med Intern aEns(jg) LAna Wakeman– 1112) “Dr Ryelle and Intern Wakeman. It appears that the emergency med kits have arrived on the ship but were too late to be fitted. I need you both to work with a team and ensure they go to the correct places, you’ll find them somewhere I cant impress on you the importance of need to make sure each of the 23 decks have medkits. Starfleet and the Federation being what it is now we will no doubt have some trouble to run into.” Lana turned slightly toward the Cardassian officer that she happened to be stood next to. Her mouth opened and closed a few times before she tilted her head slightly… “There is nooooo...short way of doing that...is there.” she murmured, It sounded like a question, but was almost a sigh of one’s resignation to fate. (Reply Ryelle) “Lana Wakeman…Intern...I should apologise, but...that is a lot of medical kits.” She smiled gently. (Reply Ryelle) (Posted by Mark) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - MO, Ensign SG, Kyros Ryelle- 1113) “Dr Ryelle and Intern Wakeman. It appears that the emergency med kits have arrived on the ship but were too late to be fitted. I need you both to work with a team and ensure they go to the correct places, you’ll find them somewhere I cant impress on you the importance of need to make sure each of the 23 decks have medkits. Starfleet and the Federation being what it is now we will no doubt have some trouble to run into.” “There is nooooo...short way of doing that...is there.” The Bajoran doctor looked at her and smiled, "The only way to do it, is deck by deck, corridor, by corridor. Each journey begins with a single step, errr, Ensign Wakeman, yes?" “Lana Wakeman…Intern...I should apologise, but...that is a lot of medical kits.” She smiled gently. "Don't worry, I'm sure we could rope in some operations staff to make sure it gets done at a reasonable speed." Ryelle then turned to his CMO, "Don't worry sir, Myself and Wakeman will make sure that everything gets done as soon as possible." (reply Vesper) (reply Vesper, any medical) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Deck 13- operations department – COO - Lieutenant Ravok Shara – 1114) Once everyone arrived Ravok began to speak. "Hello Everyone, I am your Chief Operations officer. I wanted to welcome each of you here and also discuss how I plan on running the department." He looked down at his PADD in front of him. " We will operate on a Three shift rotation, Alpha shit begins at 0800 and will run until 1600. Beta shift will begin at 1600 and run until 2400, Gamma shift will begin at the end of Beta shift and run until 0800" He looked up. " Ensign M'Rurrh you will lead Beta shift with Master chief petty officer Brown. Ensign Foster you will lead Gamma shift with Ensign Page as your support. " Ravok swiped a few times on his PADD " Petty officer 3rd class Kervik, you are a part of the operations department but you have been assigned as comm ops. You will have a team of 4 people within the communications branch of this department use them wisely." He paused a drew a breath. " We have enough coverage in the department , that everyone gets two consecutive days off. So thats five days on two days off. These off days are subject to disruption if the need for staffing of stations arises during yellow and red alert situations. I will be available around the clock. If there are any questions, you are always welcome. I will always be a slap of your commbadge away. ( reply any, all in ops) ( posted by davis) (USS Exeter – Deck 13- operations department – Ensign Rylee Page – 1116) "Hello Everyone, I am your Chief Operations officer. I wanted to welcome each of you here and also discuss how I plan on running the department. We will operate on a Three shift rotation, Alpha shit begins at 0800 and will run until 1600. Beta shift will begin at 1600 and run until 2400, Gamma shift will begin at the end of Beta shift and run until 0800. Ensign M'Rurrh you will lead Beta shift with Master chief petty officer Brown. Ensign Foster you will lead Gamma shift with Ensign Page as your support. Petty officer 3rd class Kervik, you are a part of the operations department but you have been assigned as comm ops. You will have a team of 4 people within the communications branch of this department use them wisely. We have enough coverage in the department that everyone gets two consecutive days off. So thats five days on two days off. These off days are subject to disruption if the need for staffing of stations arises during yellow and red alert situations. I will be available around the clock. If there are any questions, you are always welcome. I will always be a slap of your combadge away.” Rylee listened carefully to the details being given and felt an immediate sense of pride. Knowing that she was one of the few Trill that had joined Starfleet since they had rejoined the Federation, she was proud. As the meeting disbanded, she walked over to Ensign Foster, “Sir?” (Reply Foster) “Ensign Rylee Page, Sir.” (Reply) “I am happy to work wherever you wish me to Sir.” ( reply Foster, any) ( posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter – Operations - COO – Lieutenant Jg. Ravok- 1119) Suddenly a woman spoke. "Sir, if I may?” It was Master chief Petty officer Brown. " Yes, you may" he responded nodding his head , acknowledging the older ,more seasoned looking woman. “Sir, I’ve been going over the crew alloacations, there seems to be some officers sharing quarters that don’t need to, am I to assume that this is correct and not an oversight? Only I wouldn’t want the Quartnermasters dpt to be pulled into some sort of argument.” " I believe this was done to allow for proper allocation of resources at the moment. If every crew member were assigned their own quarters, we would quickly run out of space. Until noted otherwise enlisted personnel and junior Officers will share quarters. If you wish to allow for transfer request , you have my support on the matter Master Chief." Ravok responded. “Very well I’ll note it. Also, you asked for the meeting to start at 1107, you didn’t start until 1114 nothing more than an observation sir but can we assume that punctuality will be required in the future; I’ve set up many ships in my time in the service and it really is important to the smooth operations of the ship that we stick to what is requested. All our time is precious, sir.” Ravok looked around the room. As he looked at each of their faces, times of arrival went off in his head ~ 1102, 1058 ,1101, 1103, 1100~ he thought matching the times of arrival to faces. Ravok was particularly observant of people , it was perhaps his greatest skill. Maybe it was his Romulan nature to observe, to take mental notes on everyone and everything. Perhaps it was just who he was. " I asked for everyone to meet me in an hour and noted the time of my request. I had taken into consideration the randomness of my request and the unique nature of the situation Master Chief" He said laying his padd down in front of him. " But you presume right, once we launch , all of us will conform to strict time tables and response times. Any help and guidance you could offer to assure adherence to this departments punctuality mandates , will be welcome to my ears. Time is precious to us all, but your experience is precious to me." Ravok said and smiled at her. ( reply any in ops , janey brown iyw) ( posted by Davis) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - ACTO Ensign SG Sleeford - 11:30) Walking into sickbay was like walking into chaos as people rushed everywhere, nurses carrying bundles of bedding, doctors carrying equipment, crewman generally getting in the way and getting things done. Walking round the edges keeping out of the way Sleeford made his way to the CMOs office. Poking his head round the door frame Sleeford called out. "Anyone home" (Reply Vespers) "Came for my medical, get it over with, so to speak" (Reply Vespers) Sitting on the edge of the bed Sleeford waited for the examination to begin. (Reply Vespers) (Posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – Assistant Chief Flight Officer, Ensign Senior Grade Ronnie Winters - 11:31) Ronnie was excited. Since she was a little girl growing up with her grandmother, the prospects of soaring the galaxy on a Starship was always something she had dreamed of. But the stories of the Starfleet that her grandmother had shared with her, and the one that the grew up with were almost two different entities. Yet here she was on the Exeter, mere days away from going of to try and recapture the spirit of the Starfleet of her grandma's stories. She was excited. She liked being a flight officer in the fighter squadron, it was a lot of fun and led to a fulfilling career. But the thought of being out in Space, zooming across the whole galaxy, that to her, was more exciting. Besides she was following her boss, Trip, so it wasn't to big of an adjustment. She had really enjoyed working with him. So of course when he asked her to join the Exeter crew, she was going to. They were the same age, but she was often mesmerized by the fatherly concern he showed to his crew, his friends, and the fighter wing. The part of Trip's personality that Ravok had dubbed, "papa Trip". Walking into the shuttle bay she approached Ire. "Reporting in as ordered sir." (reply Ire) (reply Ire, Isra) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – CFO – Lieutenant JG – Ire William - 11:34) Ire looked at Winters and Tiar as they both entered the shuttle bay. He paused gathering his thoughts before he started. “Thank you both for coming. I know that you are both busy, so I will not keep you long. I just wanted to gather you both here as you are the senior members of flight ops and introduce myself. I am Lieutenant Ire Williams, the Exeter’s new Chief Flight Officer and I wanted to have a quick chat with both of you before we get the Exeter ready to fly.” “Okay we will be operating a three shift rotation, Alpha, Beta and Gamma. Alpha shift will be from 0800 to 1600, Beta shift will be from 1600 to 2400 and Gamma will be from 2400 to 0800.” He looked at Winters. “I will be on alpha shift with Ensign Winter as the assistant flight officer will take Beta and Gamma will be run by one of the Ensigns.” He looked over at Tiar. “Ensign Tiar as our Shuttle bay officer you will have flexibility in which shift you want to place yourself as the shuttle bays and their maintenance staff will be under your authority.” “Over the next few days as we get ready to depart, we will be getting the department up to scratch. We will be getting the flight ops staff allocated and the rosters sorted. As well as running familiarisation scenarios for flight crews for the Exeter we will also be getting as the shuttle bay crews and maintenance staff. Once we are settled in the next day or so it would be good to get our heads together and get something hashed out.” “I also have an open-door policy so if you have any problems or queries then please don’t hesitate to come and see me anytime.” He paused hoping he had not rushed it too much. “I may be the Lieutenant in charge of Flight Ops but I am not running this as a dictatorship and I am not infallible. I will need your help to get us ready for launch. I want and need your views and options, so if you both have any questions or suggestion please ask?” (Reply Winters, Tiar) (Reply Winters, Tiar, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter – Main Shuttle Bay – Shuttle Bay Officer - Ensign JG – Isra Tiar -11.40) Isra ran into the shuttle bay, having just gotten notice of the meeting. She ran up out of breath but remained silent as the Lieutenant spoke. She nodded as he spoke to show that she understood and acknowledge her new duties. "Yes Sir, I understand." She shook her head at his last question. "No Sir, none here, .... yet." (reply Ira) (Posted by Kathleen (SPC)) (Mars Base - Arboretum - Exeter CO Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO Sienna Williams-Verin - 12:30) “I knew I’d find you here.” Trip said as he walked into the arboretum and walked towards his sister. “Do you have a moment?” he asked. She froze, her hands in the dirt. She had not felt him. She had been shielding that hard and she always felt him before. "I do. Several as a matter of fact. I was digging up some things I wanted moved, this is a research arboretum rather than a pleasure one," A single tear rolled down her cheek unbidden. Trip walked over to her, and taking out a handkerchief wiped the tear from her eye. He didn’t say a word about it. “I just wanted to see how you were doing, see if you wanted to get dinner or something before things pick up. Just the two of us, if you want?” "I don't know what I want. Other than to go back and change it all. To try and figure out what happened with Trill. It was like I disappeared into a dark hole with the research and became obsessed. When the papers were published and Mom helped me stomp on the politics to get the meds TO Trill… I came back up and instead of everything being the same it had changed and I did not really know what to do." She potted the culinary herb starters she was separating into the two rectangular shallow trays. "One is for you. Maybe someone there can plant them for you, I will let you know when I have them split." She wiped her very dirty hands off on a rag. And just stood there. Not sure. Trip approached his sister and pulled her into a big hug. “I’m sorry.” he said in a soft tone. “I didn’t make things easy for you did I.” Sy did not pull back from the hug, she just froze, as if confused. “I talked to Dad a little bit earlier, and he ummm, he helped me sort of figure it out. I’m sorry. I never, never really looked at things from your perspective. And I never really saw or understood how hard I must have made things for you.” "You have what you most want though." She said in a very tiny, scared little girl voice that spoke of night terrors and worst fears. “Not everything I want.” Trip said as he placed his hand on the back of her head like he used to do when they were younger and she was scared. “Life without you, isn’t full. But no matter where I go, wherever you go, I want to make sure you know I’ll be there.” Trip paused, “I never….. I never….” He was struggling to find the words. “I’ve always been more independent, but, I never thought we would drift, and I guess for my part in that I’m sorry Sienna. And I don’t want us to have our careers take us to different places without, without letting you know how much...how much I care about my sister.” Trip pulled away to wipe away a tear. “Sorry dust in my eye.” He said lying. She continued to look down, dropping her shields for just a fraction of a second to see how utterly fractured her heart was with the way things were with Lynn. She let him see how bad the relationship with Ash had itched at her emotions until she had put enough distance in place to dull it. She tried very hard not to let him see other things, but flashes were there. Sy had her first major relationship fail at the same time her twin was finding his life partner apparently. There were other things she did not say, doubts that haunted her in the dark. But under it all was a beautiful, piercing unbreakable love for Trip. "You know what I want the most? Right now, this second? I want to go home." That last word was a soft wail that was barely heard. "Why don't children ever appreciate the amazement of a childhood home until it is gone?" “Because, when you're a kid, all you can think about, is growing up as fast as possible.” He said, still reeling from the flood of her emotions. He hadn’t felt her that clearly in a long time, at least since before the wedding. “And when you’re an adult, or start to become one, and you enter into that world. You realize that you wish you would have had more time as a kid, more time to play. More time to just have a simple life, with minimal burden. We never really appreciated what he had until….” he paused. He felt a wave of emotion, not from his sister, but his. He had to sit down on a small nearby bench. “ We don’t appreciate what we have until it is about to slip through our fingers.” She brushed back a strand of her hair, smearing dirt on her face. Taking a look at Trip she entered into the small break room and returned with one of the energy chasers the science interns were tinkering with, the latest fad a fizzy blue flavor, if you could taste a color. She tossed one of the shot size bottles to him before moving back to sit beside him. There was something deeper under it all, and Trip both had enough psych and knew his Sister well enough to guess. But she needed to say it, and realize how baseless that ridiculous fear was. She twisted the cap off her shot and downed it, wrinkling her nose at the intensity of the flavor and how quickly she was beginning to perk up. She was tired under it all. So she tried changing the subject "I got caught up in the Illuminar's flight trials. It was the most exhausting month I had since I boxed the first thousand vaccine doses and the most at risk symbionts… And I told some people, but it was not natural. There is very little way it could have been. Sekal wont tell me where or what we are doing but my very human intuition says it is going to be rough." “Yeah, I’m not quite sure on my orders either. I’ve got a meeting at HQ, but they haven’t scheduled it yet. I’m sure he’ll let you know as soon as he can,” Trip paused. “Tell me more about the virus, we haven’t really talked about it much.” She paused, "I can't beyond what is public. But I am positive it was deliberately created. Other more important, better credentialed scientists are saying no, but would the government want the truth out there? Trill philosophy is a little different than ours, in that the symbionts are much more important than the hosts, they hold the legacy, and destroying the symbionts… that basically will destroy Trill's history and culture. But we averted it, thank the Goddess." She sighed again, haunted and tired, not at all herself, but she had not been for several months. “Good…I’m glad.” Trip said as he finished the drink his sister had given him. “Listen Sy, ummm. I guess I didn’t think I had to say it but, look the reason why I didn’t offer you a spot on the Exeter was I heard that you were going to be offered the spot on the Illuminar and I didn’t want you to turn it down, I didn’t want to get in the way of your career…. And I couldn’t…. I know it probably hurt, picking Lynn over you as my first officer, but I couldn’t.” He paused to get the strength to finish his thought, “Idiotic promise aside, I have to be able to send any member of my crew into danger, into the unknown, to their potential death. I can do that was Ravok, I can do that with Ire, as much as it would pain me forever, I could do that with Lynn. I could never do that with you. I don’t think I am capable of putting you in a situation where you could be seriously hurt or die. I’d be emotionally compromised before I could even make that call. You’re my sister and I’m not strong enough to make that call.” Something a little bit lost passed over her features before they shuttered again, as if her emotions were too painful to be born. “If that is what you are telling yourself. It doesn’t matter. You got what you wanted. It was always Lynn that you picked in the games. I knew then that you loved me and that I was the other part of you. Now… Now I don’t know anything. There was not anyone else you could have picked that would have hurt me more. I don’t know where we go from here, James. I finish potting the herbs for meals I won’t have anymore. And I don’t think you understand… I have nothing in my life now when a little over a year ago I had everything. I’m not you. I didn’t want to be running a ship before I was 25. I wanted nights like the first night we really got here on Mars and Lynn, you and I were performing for the crowd, singing and music. I wanted picnics where we all - including Ash- had time to get to know each other. I desperately wanted to be included in your decision making. I didn’t want what happened. I didn’t want to have everything I loved and cared about just disappear in a blaze. I didn’t want to not be Mom so bad that I turned into her. I just… I don’t know anymore. You tried. I tried. It wasn’t enough on either side. Maybe we can rebuild it. Maybe the first step is to ask me what I want to do. You came here wanting to go have lunch just the two of us, right? Where did you have in mind?” She bit her bottom lip and looked back down at the herbs she needed to finish potting. Trip sighed, he heard what she was saying, but it took a lot to keep his internal monologue to himself. In his mind she was being selfish, but he didn’t know best how to approach it, he knew what he said next would either make things better or worse. But to him, the thought that she had nothing in her life, that he couldn’t move forward with his life upset him. He wasn’t trying to replace her. “Look,” he said as he stood up, clenching his fists in frustration as he tried to think about what to say next. “I understand that you wished you would have more time, but we always knew this would happen, we always knew we’d be separated by the fleet. It didn’t happen after the academy, but its happening now, and it's ok. We will always be a team, but I can’t always be with you everyday, every second. We are twins, but we are also two independent people, with different wants and desires. I always tried my best to include you. But even from the moment we got to Mars, we were being pulled in different directions, different paths. It's part of growing up, part of life. I never tried to get rid of you Sy, never tried to leave you out, but…. It’s selfish to think that I have to go at your pace, at your comfort. Yes, I’m married, but that doesn’t change who you are to me, or relationship. And yes, picking Ailynn hurt, and I’m sorry, but I needed someone in that position that I could trust, who knows what I am thinking, who can anticipate my orders. And since it obviously can’t be you, she was the best choice. I’m sorry for that. But you have also grown, and you will realize that. You’ve come into your own, your science brilliance is known, you are the first officer of a brand new science vessel. You have more than you realise. And I know, I know, we’re not going to be in the same physical proximity anymore, but how many times do I need to tell you that no matter what, I’m still going to be around. But Sy, everything you said was I, I, I, Me, Me, Me. I love you Sy, I do. But I’m not a possession.” She stared at him for a very, very long moment. “We both made mistakes Trip. And maybe mine are worse right now. I love you too. But I can’t be where you are with Ash.” She swallowed hard. “I tried to shield, I did. I went to the Counselor. The only thing that helped was distance and town from base, then even that wasn’t enough. The ship was almost enough most of the time with me shielding hard. I never had that happen with you and … others. Ever. And it hurt. It hurt when Lynn … her Mom’s going to lose her mind when she hears that Lynn’s your FO, you know that? But…” Sy shook her head again as if it really hurt her. “I don’t know.” She whispered after another moment. “I want to rewind.” “But that's the thing, Sy, it’s not like I can just put my life on hold until you are ready. It’s not fair to me, and what if you were never ready? This was going to happen eventually. And I’m sorry that me finding someone to share my life with hurt you rather than you being happy for me. But look, I’m going to be here for you no matter what, so when you’re ready, I’ll be there. As for Miss Aimee and Lynn, she’ll come around eventually. We all have an idea of what we think our lives and the lives of those we love should follow, but life doesn't always do what we want.” He sighed, “Look, I don’t want to make this any worse than it is, and I will give you whatever you need to feel comfortable with this. I’m not going away from your life, and neither is Ashlyn. Both of us want to be there for you. When you are ready. I get that you need more time to be ok with everything, but I hope in time you can get to a point where you can be happy for me. I’m proud of you and I love you.” Looking at her he placed his hand on her shoulder. “I am still open for lunch, but I can understand if you’d rather be alone right now.” “Would rather you got down here and helped me separate these herbs.” She whispered. “I hope your wife is a better gardener than you are.” “I don’t know if anyone can be a worse gardener than me.” He said with an awkward laugh. “I kinda expected you to ask me how the trials went. But maybe you didn’t know. Sekal sent me out with the Illuminar for the space trials.” She said that last bit quite shyly. “I didn’t know.” he said, “I really only found out about the ships recently, I wasn’t involved in the Exeter shake down cruise. As they told me, we didn’t want to take you away from the fighter wing until there was a succession plan in place.” He paused, “How did the trials go?” “Well,” Sy said and lowered her voice mischievously almost to the timbre of the voice their Father used, and in almost perfect imitation of Duke, “She flies.” Sy held her breath for a second and then just burst into laughter. She had their Dad almost down pat. “I loved the trials. They were difficult, especially the exhaustive testing that the Illuminar needed for the new systems and drive. She’s sleek and she will fly.” This was the most relaxed and like herself that he had seen Sienna for months. “The integration with Luma is going well too. We had to do the trials without her, but with the Illuminar, it means the Mystique can really be retired as she should be.” Sienna put her hands back in the dirt, “Do you want all the forms of basil that we have?” The dirt seemed to do something to his sister, it always had. It grounded her and kept her stable. “If you don’t mind. I’ve been tinkering with my pesto sauce, but it doesn’t really taste the same without your basil.” Trip said with a smile. “I’m glad that Trials went well and that Luma is integrating securely.” “I truly do not mind.” Sienna easily sifted the different forms and wrapped the seedlings in a cottony fabric. From experience Trip knew to dampen those but not get them wet, and to keep them damp until the seedlings were planted. “I’m kind of jealous.” He said with a laugh, “The Exeter was completed before the Illuminar and did all her trials before they knew for certain I was going to be the CO, I didn’t get to do any of that. I bet it was a lot of fun, taking a brand new ship out, and testing her limits. Like training a new puppy.” “We built inset panels by the turbolifts on each deck. For roses. They will be self sufficient and glassed and we will be bringing an expert along and roses from over fourty different worlds. For Luma.” Sienna smiled, but it did not reach her eyes. “Are you relieved she is not on the Exeter? I liked that we could deal with the integration issues she had with the Mystique from the ground up. She’s got improved sensor function.” “Relieved wouldn't be the right word. I never understood Luma, not in the way you did. So not relieved that she’s not on the Exeter, but more relieved that she is on the Illuminar, where she can be free to continue to learn, with those she is closest to. It’s a good situation for her. So in that sense I am relieved.” “Sy,” he said as he began rubbing his hands together to get some of the dirt off so they wouldn’t get too caked with dirt. “Ash and I would love to have you over dinner, one last time before we depart. I know, I know, you want your space. But I need to at least offer.” Sienna sat back on her haunches as she looked up at him, “It isn’t that. It’s that I don’t know or trust what I feel right now. I feel like Trill was where it all began to go very wrong. Lynn discovered her long lost half Aunt, you fell for her, and you fell hard. And Lynn started to drift away… Or maybe that I perceived it that way. I don’t know. Lynn is without a doubt my Imzadi. But is she my life partner? I don’t know. I hope so. I hope we cycle back to each other Trip. But it all hurts so terribly.” Sienna looked up at him and unshielded completely, then guided her brother towards where the Imzadi bond was and it was razor sharp, jagged and not at all healthy. It was obvious why Sienna was in such absolute pain. “Please don’t tell her.” She whispered. “If she’s functioning better than me, then I am glad.” He did not need to know how little sleep she was truly getting. “I know Sy, trust me. I know better than you think. Which is why I hope you get to a place where you feel like you can talk to me about this. It takes time to heal, but it will in time. And don’t worry I wont share any of this with Lynn. Your feelings are between you and me.” She nodded and then leaned against him. She needed her older by a few minutes brother. “But if the offer for food is there, I would not mind some of your double chocolate pancakes. What I really want… I want to get back home Trip. I want to sit at Dad’s feet and lay my head on his knee. I want to cry on my Daddy’s shoulder. I want Mom to make everything better with her fussing. I want the kids to run around like crazy and shove drawings in my face and make me recite the periodic table in two languages for their homework. Speaking of…” Sienna looked over, “Is it true Rissa, the Tiburonian sweet pain is going to be on your ship? Dad mentioned it in a line in his last communique. I don’t know whether to congratulate you or feel sorry for you. I saw that she’d settled a lot at the wedding and wasn’t all sharp thorns anymore.” “Yeah, her and another cadet will be interning on the Exeter. I set up a meeting with her later to set up some boundaries, but also to make sure she feels welcome. I think she will do well. Hopefully she learns a lot from Lt. Merek. She can be a bit intense at times, but she’s a good person for Rissa to learn from.” “I hope… I should let Rissa know she can contact me too. Some things it might be easier to talk to a girl about.” She finished packaging the plants, “You should have these moved. Or I can get a crewman to do it.” “Probably best to get a crewman to do it. There is a lot of paperwork that needs to get done.” He paused. “Sy, maybe you should go home. You’ve done a lot of work on the Illuminar already, maybe Sekal will give you a day off to go home and spend time with them. If there is one thing I know to be true, no matter how far you go in life, home will always be a place you can go back to.” She looked up, “Would you come too? If so, I’ll ask him. If not, maybe I’ll still ask him. Or maybe mom and dad can get up here for a few hours.” “I don’t know if I can take any time off to go to Earth. There is a lot that needs to be done, and I need to be around, ya know.. But you should totally take advantage of the opportunity. If it’s what you need, you need to go for it.” She nodded. And gave it thought. “It get easier in time you know…” Trip said with a brotherly smile. “Being away from your Imzadi, not having them around, having to live in a world without them…. It’s hard, but time heals.” he paused, “And I will be here to talk about it, and so are mom and dad. I don’t get over Rae without you, My heart isn’t ready to be made whole by Ash without you. And if I need to, I will return the favor.” “I won’t be a stranger. I just… I can’t handle the sense of your forming bond while mine is being jaggedly destroyed. I need the space.” She looked down, then moved, and began to pick strawberries for him to take as well, giving her hands something mindless to do. “Surprisingly Sekal hasn’t pried, and has done me many small kindnesses like prioritizing my quarters over his when the ship was being built.” She looked up as another tear escaped. “Maybe once everything settles it will be easier. Time like you said. I love you.” She was beginning to close down again, trying to compartmentalize her pain and personal issues from her professional. Trip walked over to her and embraced her in a giant hug. “Hey, sis” he said, holding her as close as he could. “I can feel what you are trying to do. Don’t bury your feelings. It’s important to find someone you trust over there that you can talk to and process. But sometimes, when you buy things, it can linger until it boils over and explodes. You need people in your lives you can talk with, cry with, have a beer with, and cry in your beer with. I hope you can find someone like that on the Illuminar.” She smiled shyly at him, “Maybe if I can get some Betazoid mead.” She said with a nod, “But I’ll try.” She looked down at her dirty hands, sinking them back into the earth “I expect at least weekly letters. I might write you every day.” She sighed. “You’re going to be ok, we’re going to be ok. And Ash really likes you.” Sienna seemed disbelieving at that notion. “It’s all going to be ok. And I mean let’s be real. We’ve just made history.” She now was confused. “I’m a commanding officer, you’re a first officer, and we’re both only 23. The skies the limit for us sis, we may be separated by quadrants of space, but we will always be together, and together we are unstoppable.” She laid her head on his shoulder again. He was right, they were together. (reply none) (posted by Will and Mel) (USS Exeter - Deck 8 - CTO Office - Chief Tactical Officer Ensign Dareshaa - 1300) As if she was gliding Dareshaa stepped into her office which was positioned in the back of the main tactical hub on Deck 8. One could not simply reach the CTO by an exterior door, but rather would have to interact with the front desk first and allowed into the facility behind it. The facility consisted of more than just offices, but access ways to brigs, writing stations, training facilities and other rooms necessary for tactical. The bright lights of her office annoyed her. "Computer, turn down lights to 50% and change light temperature to 2000K." The computer complied as expected. Dareshaa immediately felt better in the space. As of now her office had none of her personal touches, but that would change in time. But for now she walked behind her desk and sat. Reaching, she tapped on her terminal which was embedded into her desk. In her soft yet no doubt serious tone she spoke. "Chief Tactical Officer Dareshaa to all senior tactical officers. Your presence is requested at 0900 in the Main Tactical Briefing Room on Deck 8 tomorrow." (reply Senior Tactical Officers) (posted by Calvin Capps) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - CO Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Engineering Intern Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 15:00) Rissa had just reported to her quarters to drop off her two regulation duffel bags of belongings when she had received the message to report to the Commander’s Ready Room on the Bridge. Of course Rissa knew that the Commander of the Exeter was her foster-brother, Trip Williams. She had been lucky that her final foster placement was the Williams’ ranch in Texas. She had been lucky that she had a fantastic social worker who knew Sophie Williams-Verin and that she took on the difficult cases. Rissa snickered to herself that she was certainly a difficult case. The Ranch was a place full of animals, people, children and a Clan of mostly human people that before she had met them Rissa would have thought existed only in a novel. She hadn’t been that nice when she landed on their doorstep would a duffel bag of broken dreams. Bur Sophie was a Betazoid, otherwise known as the nosiest race of do-gooders to walk the planet. Sophie had made it clear that the reason Rissa had landed on their doorstep was her engineering aptitude and that it was not going to be lost due to poor decisions. Sophie had kept Rissa in the ranch house all through the rest of her very abridged high school career. Duke Williams was the most renowned engineer of his generation and he was a patient and caring man where children were concerned. Rissa only had a few months of meeting the twins, and only one meeting with the older girl from Sophie’s first marriage. And then other children cycled into and out of the Rance until the Incident, and they got four permanent additions. Adorable additions that wormed their way into Rissa’s previously uncaring heart. The pearlescent greened skinned Tiburonian tugged her tunic straight as the turbolift she had been reminiscing ended the journey at the bridge. Taking a moment to stare at the ship that she had before only seen in diagrams and engineering problems at the Ranch’s kitchen table, she remembered the call. A few steps towards the ready room and she toggled the sound, frowning when she did not hear the sound from the outside and was curious if it needed a repair. “Come in,” Trip said. He expected his next appointment. He didn’t know Rissa very well, but he knew his parents were both very fond of her. He knew she was desperately seeking a home, a clan, a place of belonging. He knew it was important to set some boundaries but also make sure she knew she was welcome. “Have a seat Rissa.” Rissa looked around his ready room, smiling a little bit when she saw the hologram of his wedding. She had attended as part of the Clan. She took the indicated seat and nervously crossed her ankles under the desk. “Listen, I wanted to have a chat with you real quick before things got away from me. First I just wanted to let you know that I am very happy to have you here. Dad thinks you will flourish here. I’ll have a full briefing with you and your roommate in a day or two, especially as it concerns your academic requirements. But that can wait.” Rissa’s dark eyes looked into Trip’s for a moment, “Master Duke,” She spoke of his Father as the head of this branch of the Williams Clan, “Has been very kind to offer me this opportunity. And to you for providing it.” Her white teeth shined against the pearly skin. “First off, there is a sense of familiarity between us, a family bond and connection, and that is very important. But when on duty, when I’m on the bridge, when I’m wearing the uniform, I’m not your foster brother, I’m your CO, I’m the Captain. Is that understood.” Rissa’s smile disappeared. She had known this talk was coming. “I understand, Sir. The Captain is always the Captain, even when he is not. I know my place in the Clan, Sir. And I will bring honor to you, and in reflection to Master Duke.” Tiburonian Clan structure made little sense and the poor girl was trying to make sense out of the joyful chaos of the Williams Clan. “With that being said, you are family, at least in my eyes, and I know that you are desperately looking for your tribe. So after hours, I just want you to know that my door and my wife’s door are always open to you, whatever you need. Ash and I are there for you, no matter what.” Her jaw just literally dropped when he said that. “You are my Clan brother in truth?” She spoke carefully. “Master Duke said that you were but…” Her voice dropped off in surprise and good tears appeared in her eyes. “Of course that also means a family dinner once a week, if that is ok with you?” Rissa looked up, “Do you have the knowledge to replicate Clan Mistress Sophie’s sunday deep friended chicken?” She had never managed to call it fried, and Sophie had declared that with the number of people who ate it, it may as well be Friend Chicken. “Yes, I can make her friend chicken, and I can make my father’s cookies, and of course my own recipes. And yes for the family dinner, everything is made from scratch.” Her knowledge of standard had her blinking for a moment as if searching for the meaning of that word, “Ah, non-replicated. Clan-Brother, many aboard will expect a favoritism from you, or attempt to use me to get that from you. I do not know my judgement of humans is perfected.” Her accent had grown a lot less in the academy as she worked with a dedicated speech therapist to minimize what could be a distinct handicap for her. “I know that in a Tiburonian ship that those favors would be expected or I would be beaten.” She whispered that last little bit, “Clan Master Duke says that if any bring pressure upon me that I am to report it to you, but in the Academy that is referred to as snitching, and it is a bad thing to be? I am unsure…” She sighed. “If you feel you need to, then you can always come to me. But this is Starfleet, if they don’t understand no means no, and they pressure you into anything, then I need to, because that is inappropriate and they should be disciplined. Yes you will be an acting ensign, but you are still a cadet, and they just teach you, not take advantage of you.” Trip paused. “And your tribe isn’t just Ashlyn and I, I will be bringing my dog Layla with me, and you are welcome to play with her whenever you like.” Her eyes lit up at that, literally lit up. “Clan Brother to take solace in your spirit animal would be a pleasure above few others, not even the Clan Mistress’ triple chocolate brownies.” “And I can make those too. And I know Layla will be happy to have more people to play with.” He smiled again. “The tribe and the clan is very important for your culture, and as you bear the Williams name, my clan is your clan. We are here for you Rissa. Now do you have any more questions for me?” Shyly she reached into her pocket and took out the box Duke had given her. It was a jewelry box with two pendants. The W of their name, a Starfleet arrow below, in a circle. “Clan Master Duke told me to give you these, Clan Brother. He had them created. They are for you and your Lady.” She was still shy as she showed him the one on a platinum chain Duke had given her. “The Clan Master said we were a Clan in spirit, before? Now we are one in truth. There is a gem, ah… chip. For the computer to create one for your cousin. He is having one sent to Clan Sister Sienna, although he gave the impression of wanting to speak with her.” Rissa cast her garm, jewel-like eyes down, “Clan Brother, I feel so lost even now within your culture. The Clan Master desires that I continue my counseling sessions.” She wrinkled her nose in disgust. And like any twenty-ish year old, tried to get something out of an elder sibling, “Perhaps you could override?” She asked, a quirky half smile as she already knew what the answer would be. “Now, now, I wish I could. I really do. But while he’s my dad, he’s also the Academy CO, and he made that request in the file as Academy CO, and I can’t do that. It would also be inappropriate for me to do that. But going to the counselor is nothing to be afraid of. But if it helps, I’ll let you in on a secret.” She sighed, but he had that tone to his voice that their adopted brother Declan would sometimes get, “If it is not a problem to divulge?” She did not always understand human teasing. “I go to a counselor once a month to talk about stress and anxiety, for guidance and comfort. So you aren’t alone. I have to go see the counselor too. And you’ll like our new counselor, Jester. She’s very happy and friendly, not scary in the least.” Rissa had a lot of experience with counselors through her years, “It is considered rude to doubt a Clan sibling, but … would it be wrong to ask you to accompany me to meet her?” For all her academic accomplishments, she was still a lost barely twenty. “I will make the introduction. I would want any of my crew to feel comfortable with the counselor and if this is something you need to feel comfortable, I will. But, after that, I can’t go into the meetings, but I can be there to make the first introduction.” She smiled lightly at that, “Yes, Clan-Sib. I will endeavor to understand and keep the appropriate boundaries between us.” “You will do well here, and learn here, but I can’t hold your hand. You are an acting ensign JG, and I expect you to comport yourself in that way. So I expect you to treat your counseling with seriousness. But that doesn’t mean that on rough days, there might not be a plate of cookies in your quarters for afterwards. You know, to share.” He said with a wink. She quirked an eyebrow at that, “And Clan Master Duke did not? Or the Clan Patriarch? But I understand. I will do my best as I said to bring honor to the Clan...and in the human concept for the Clan Mistress to be proud of me.” She whispered that last word, she obviously admired Sophie. “I do not know if it is wise for me to seek out the Lady Lt. Merek or if I should wait to be summoned by her.” Subtleties of human culture still eluded her. “I don’t think it would hurt to pop in and say hello.” Trip looked down at his console and saw the time. “Unfortunately, I have to cut our meeting here.” Trip then stood and stretched out his arms for a hug. Quickly standing she stretched as she had seen other humans do and took the offered hug. “From my Clan Sibling, not my Captain.” She whispered to him. “Yes from your clan sibling.” Trip then released the hug. “But as your captain now, Acting Ensign, you are dismissed.” She kissed his cheek softly before leaving. She stopped at the door, closed her eyes, took a very deep breath and then exhaled it after five seconds before leaving his ready room. Trip smiled as she left. “I hope she can find her place here. She has a lot to offer as long as he can find where she belongs.” (reply none) (posted by Will and Mel) (USS Exeter - Observational Viewing Lounge - Engineering Intern Acting Ensign JG Rissa Williams - 16:30) Rissa had left the meeting with her Clan-Sib/Captain and had gone to one of the many observational lounges to stand and stargaze and think. She pulled out the small Williams Clan 'crest' she had been given by Duke and thought. She was blessed, she knew that. It was a human concept that she really did not understand. Sophie had tried to explain it to her in the several years that Sophie had gently molded and taught and sanded the prickly thorns from Rissa's edges. Duke had helped. The meeting with her Clan Sib had surprised her. She had not expected that Trip Williams would obey the edicts of the Clan Master and the Clan Patriarch and treat her as a full Clan Sib. But he had and he said he would do so. She worried the stylized crest between her fingers as she thought. She hoped that she could put the spectacular knowledge that she had of this ship to use. But first she needed to find her Senior Officer, the Lady Lt. Merek. So she hit the comm badge, "Lt. Merek, this is Ensign Williams, your engineering intern. If it would please you, when should I report in to you to review the academic requirements and responsibilities?" >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -6 Stardate: 2445.08.27 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Junior Officers Quarters - Eng Intern Rissa Williams and Med Intern Lana Wakeman - 0835) Lana walked down the corridor, trying to follow the map that she had on her PADD. Eventually finding the room that she had been assigned to, she stepped forward and into the room that according to her notes, she would be sharing with another intern. The room itself looked well kitted out, a central living area, with a sleeping area to each side. It would be strange, she thought, only sharing with one other person, and actually having her own room, back at the academy, it had been bunks. “Hello? Anyone in here?” Rissa Williams was a pearlescent green skinned, dark green haired Tiburonian with the classic overly large ears, but otherwise looked more like an Orion than a Tiburonian. She was wearing the ensign uniform she had been assigned, but had the cadet insignia of a fourth year cadet. Her green hair was braided back away from her face and reached her shoulders. Unlike most females of her race, she had cut her hair. She wore no tribal markings, not inked into her body visibly or obviously in jewelry like some did. Rissa peeked her head around the corner into the shared common room, “Greetings unto you Be you lost or is this your quarters as well?” She asked with a grin. Rissa’s dark eyes lit with an easy smile. “Hey there!” Lana’s hazel eyes erupted into a smile. “No, these are my quarters too.” “Do you have belongings that are going to be delivered later?” “They said they would be, apparently there were more security checks. I’m Lana, Medical Intern.” She held out her hand. Rissa looked at the hand for a fraction of a second, the clasped it. Her skin temperature was slightly cooler than a human. "If you do not know, I am a Tiburonian and there be few of us in the Fleet. Rissa of the Clan Williams." She did not draw attention to her sharing the family name of the Captain. "Engineering Intern." She gave an internal sigh, she should have taken the Clan Mistress up on her shopping trip to outfit her quarters properly, but her life had been regimented for so long in foster care that she had never really accumulated many belongings. “This is crazy. I can’t believe that we’re on this ship it’s so amazing, and we’re the first interns in like...forever.” Lana smiled and breathed, calming herself down. “I’m so sorry to be so intense, I’m so excited.” Rissa well understood the other young woman's enthusiasm. "Let us sit. I have upon me my Clan Mistress' triple chocolate brownies and a tumbler of freshly milked cow milk from the Ranch where I fostered. It would be agreeable to begin such ties?" Lana smiled warmly, “I’d like that. I...I don’t have many ties, so I’d really like that Rissa of the clan Williams.” she’d never met a Tiburonian before, but she’d heard the unusual cadence of speech. Rissa returned with the milk in two glasses and a plate with 4 brownies. "I am placed with you, as I am… unsure..about many things. I was a found Tiburonian child on the streets of Mars and no appropriate Clan desired me, so I went into the foster system of Earth and jumped from home to home until I was 13, almost 14. I was placed with the family who often dealt with such difficult cases. She was a Captain in StratOps on Earth, but the Clan Mistress and her partner were recently promoted. The Clan Master placed us both here and the Commander is my Clan Sib, but I do not know him well. I spent almost 3 years with them being homeschooled and taught before placing into the Academy at 17. I am thrilled to be here, but I am also very lost on how normal, well adjusted humanoids interact. So if'n you would be my friend and catch when mistakes happen and help teach me, I can share academic help and the treats that may sometimes come my way, like the brownies and the real milk. Tiburonians need a lit of calcium, and my Clan Mistress always made sure I had a large tumbler every day. I understand it is what other species Mother's do?" She finally wound down and reached for the second brownie, having eaten the first during her speech. "I never had many friends in the Academy. I was too shy, too different and I was too focused towards a career that would bring glory to my adopted Clan." Lana shifted in the seat that she found herself occupying. The first brownie had melted in her mouth, the rich, dark sweetness ruining her concentration for a moment. “Well...Rissa of the clan Williams. For someone who is so shy...you sure know how to entertain a new friend, and make them feel at ease.” she tilted her head. Pulling at her hair and squinting at the ends, before dropping the curl that she was fiddling with. Rissa perked visibly up, "It is because I understand where you rank to me, and the rules that enter into it." She smiled. As well as for their robotic skills, the race was also known as charming and charismatic. "Tell unto this one, your new friend, about you?" Rissa was very interested. “Myself? I’m afraid...that my story isn’t nearly as interesting. I’m just a plain girl. Lana of the clan Wakeman. Oldest child of three, and least appreciated. Do you know what Rissa?” Rissa seemed concerned about those words, she had seen more than one foster family like that. “I think that this brownie,” She held up the soft, chocolaty square in her fingers. “I think that this is the first home made thing I’ve ever eaten, non-replicated I mean.” She nodded, understanding that as well. "When I entered the Clan ranch, I had never really eaten anything that was not replicated, and sometimes it was basic rations, you know those horrid bland nutrition cubes? At the Ranch almost everything is non replicated. And it is in the earth territory known as Texas. Many livestock chores, but also much caring. And, the Clan Mistress is a betazoid." Rissa grinned. "If you meet them, they prefer Miss Sophie and Mr. Duke, but if they are official, it is Admiral Williams" she sighed. This was difficult. "Being here scares me. I need to do well to make the proud, and not reflect badly upon them. And there will be so much academics we will do. Unlike real ensigns there wont be much downtime but, we should stick together." Lana paused for a moment, and then carried on shyly. “Can I share something? I mean...we’re like totally roomies? So we’re kind of like...I dunno…” "I am not sure what that means but is it similar to the concept of the best friend?" “Riss...We’re going to spend like...a year in here together...so yeah...best friend…” Rissa grinned, more like a teenager than an adult, but getting there. “Yes. It will be a pleasure to have someone to share secrets with.” Rissa missed the ranch already. “So a few months ago, Doctor Bracken spoke at the medical prospectees ball. I mean...she’s like totes my hero; and guess what…” Lana sipped the milk, and bit the brownie, resting her hand on the upper arm of her roommate “Oh dear me these are...totes amaz..where was I? Mmm! Anyway...so I actually spoke to her afterward...and this whole thing about expectation came up, and I asked her what drove her...was it to prove herself to her mum. She said, no, it didn’t matter what her mum wanted her to do, she could have sat back and painted butterflies, so long as it both made her, Ailynn I mean, happy, but also that she tried to be the best...painter of butterflies that she could be…Does that sound weird?” Rissa thought for a long moment, "Clan Mistress Sophie says often that we are not bound to the paths we are forced to walk by circumstances. Sometimes it is a nudge by one person, to make the jump to a new path. I am gifted with robotics and electronics but not skilled in other things like people interaction. But I think had I desired truly to stay at the ranch, if I had tried this path and not liked it, she would have supported me as long as I did my best. Something must have shown to the Academy CO of your potential, of your skills to put you here." Rissa paused a moment, "You matter now. Every action here, it matters. It is real." She patted Lana's hand gently. Lana smiled. “Do you know what? For a girl who claims to be shy...and who supposedly had no friends...you’re doing pretty well.” “I have one friend outside my clan then. You.” Rissa grinned. “But outside of here, these quarters… I am very much at a loss. I have to be careful. Starfleet is not like the Tiburonian ships I remember and the rules I learned in the Academy, things I don’t really know, I’m afraid that I will make my Clan-sib Trip sad, and that he will have to be the Captain in a punitive sense and I know it could happen but it’s the worst fear I have right now. Outside of the one where the Lady Lt. Merek will beat me like a Tal’Shiar would.” She shrugged. “I am told, in my weekly mandated counseling sessions that it is normal my friend, Lana, to be nervous and have fears, but it is how you conquer them.” “I have few personal belongings. Perhaps I can help you with yours when they arrive?” She asked hopefully. Maybe one day in the future Lana could help her purchase some, “And ensigns are allowed to have small animals. Do you desire one for the room? We could approach the Counselor and ask before we leave.” A soft barely there smile. Something nudged Lana’s mind “Back up girl...wait...Lady Merek beating you Like a Tal’Shiar? Riss...I have no clue what that means, and I apologise for my ignorance...but this is not a Triburonian ship, if Lt Merek even thinks of raising her hand against anyone, then...no...just no. I don’t know her, she might be grumpy and surly, but you’re an intern, not the chief of engineering.” Rissa stilled, “It is a fear. You have fears. I am told my fears are baseless on a federation ship.” She stayed quiet, “I’m glad that you are here.” “As to a pet...I dunno - we’re both going to have long hours...a fish maybe?” Rissa was not sure why they would keep a fish, but if that was what Lanna desired and would be appropriate. She did not tell her that pets were an emergency food source on the kind of ships she vaguely remembered. She knew that much. “Perhaps you can help me find a few? If that is your wish.” “I was forced, then encouraged to practice tai chi, would you care to learn it? And what physical exertion do you engage in?” More nervousness as she fell onto the more formal patterns of speech. Again, Lana blushed. “Nothing that interesting, I do fairly standard self defence classes, nothing like...you know...but I was on the Rowing team, so I have to keep very fit for that, or I did when I was next to SF bay, now? Just going to be plain old gym work.” “I need to spar as well and learn more. I do not ever want to be helpless again.” As Rissa came to the end of her reply, the door chime went off, and looking puzzled Lana got up and opened the door. A few seconds later she came back with her bags. “Mind helping me unpack?” Rissa nodded, “Let us do it.” (Reply none) (Posted by Mel and Mark) (USS Exeter – Intelligence Office– 3O Lieutenant(jg) - Jaelle Foxglove – 1111) Fourteen months... it had been little more than a year. Since the incident on earth and the complete upheaval of highest ranking members of the Federation, and the later board of inquiry that she had to pass on her actions. Adrmial Cayne was now gone. The Federation was completely behind its charter of expanding its influence and a return to exploration. For Jaelle the months passed. The Intelligence operation center was her baby of a sort. It was her place in the world. Its separation from the base saved her from a good deal of drama from the base. Now she had to leave it, again venture into the unknown. On a new ship, surrounded by a crew who were all children in comparison to her. Not to say that they weren't good people, its just they lacked any real experience in the vast deepness of space. Jaelle had traveled among the stars and as such she knew the dangers. She looked over the Intelligence office it was a small suite of rooms that connected to a central office, her officer. It had a replicator, a desk with built in holographic displays, and of course a nice comfy chair. She ran a finger along the desk, she knew her section would be small. Only a handful of officers, she would wait to hold a Section meeting till they we closer to being underway. She wanted those under her charge to have a moment to move in and get settled. As it was Jaelle already made plans on having her things moved from her quarters in the Intelligence center to the Exeter. It was only her most precious trinkets and items that could not be replaced by a replicator. Everything else she would replicate and get anew. Leaving her office she went about to tour the rest of the ship. (posted by Matthew) (USS Exeter – Bridge– Lieutenant(jg) - Jaelle Foxglove – 1117) The bridge was large and well laid out, there was just one thing missing. The bridge lacked any intelligence operations. It wasn't just this bridge most lacked the resources or room for such a specialized compartment. It was something that she was told the CO already took into consideration. That brought her to the cluster of command chairs sat in the middle of the bridge. The center chair was for the captain, to his right was FO, to his left where the 2O was to be seated was a break in the norm. Her was her chair, she guessed that the CO wanted to keep her and her experience close. She sat in her chair and hand graced to holographic command console with in its structure. The computer opened before her and with a few deft strokes of her hand she entered her command codes allowing her access to the computer. She nodded while the Intelligence office was nice it seemed she could control her entire section from the bridge if needed. She shook her head. It seemed Trip wanted to make a bridge officer out of the enigmatic Foxglove. Only time would tell happy that all was as it should be there was only one thing she wanted to do. A clearly personal and slightly childish need. (posted by Matthew) (USS Exeter – Spa – Lieutenant(jg) - Jaelle Foxglove – 1130) Jaelle had been on many ships of the line, they were all different and had certain perks that helped break the monotony of deep space. But she had never been on a ship that had so many little extras. In some aspects the Exeter was more like a starliner and not a ship of the line. It only took a brief moment to store her duty uniform with the safety of the locker room before she was at the waters edge. Dipping her toe into the clear depth she smiled at the pleasant maintained temperature of the water before she dove into clearness, breaking the mirror like surface with her person. Swimming was always a great way to keep in shape and it was one that she enjoyed. Being able to claim the first dive into the pool would be a pleasure that she alone would keep, she smiled as she made laps in the refreshing waves of her own motion, only exiting the pool once sheer exhaustion forced her to the side. To once again return to the world at large. (Reply any, none needed) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter – Spa – StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander – 1133) Billy had been wandering around Deck 9 trying to take in the sights of the so called "Rec Deck". It seemed the design team, and if he didn't know if this was his Uncle's idea or someone else's, but it was clear that whoever it was knew that if a crew was going to be out in deep space for long periods of time, not knowing when their next shore leave was going to be, that they were going to need places on board the ship to cut loose and unwind. Other than holodecks and holosuites, the crown jewel of recreation were the facilities on Deck 9. There was the large and luxurious Starlight Lounge, the pub themed Nine and Dine, a traditional coffee shop, full gym, and a pool and spa. Everything he knew would at least keep him sane. He had toured the other facilities and he wanted to see what the spa and pool facilities looked like. As he entered into the pool facility, there was one person there. He couldn't help but chuckle. "You know lieutenant, if you keep doing normal activities like this, people are going to stop being scared of you." (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Spa – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1139) "You know lieutenant, if you keep doing normal activities like this, people are going to stop being scared of you." She dropped into the water to hide the redness on her face and surfaced again at the side of the pool splashing Billy. "And... your... not... supposed to be here." She spoke gaining her breath back. Besides do you understand how much I have to train to keep up with the rumors of my unparalleled ability." She folded her arms on the side of the pool resting her head on her hands. Using her feet to tread water. (Reply Billy) "Besides its peaceful." She voice softened. "What does bring you here, or do you just like to sneak around catching peeps at girls in there swimsuits." (Reply Billy) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter – Spa – StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander – 1141) "And... your... not... supposed to be here." She spoke gaining her breath back. "Besides do you understand how much I have to train to keep up with the rumors of my unparalleled ability." "Well, I guess whatever, ummm...Floats your boat." He said tyring to make a nautical joke. "Besides its peaceful." She voice softened. "What does bring you here, or do you just like to sneak around catching peeps at girls in there swimsuits." "Well first off, last time I checked, this is the only pool facility and open to the public. Second, I'm not one of those creepers walking around for fan service, like those crazies from those weirdo cartoon shoes from the 20th and 21st century, what are they called Anime. No crazy nose bleeds squirting every where." Billy said with a chuckle. He walked over and sat down on a nearby bench. "Honestly, I was touring the Rec Deck and just checking out the facilities. First real starship assignment right, wanted to see what we had. We got spoiled on Mars, because if the base didn't have it, there was a whole planet to scope out and find something to do, but on a starship, our options are limited. So, this was the next stop on my tour. Otherwise I wouldn't have wandered into the pool area wearing my full uniform." (reply Jaelle) "What about you? I mean taking the offer was easy for me, StratOps, seems like a lot more fun then checking an Admiral's mail. But you, giving up Intel on mars for a Starship doesn't exactly seem like a lateral move. Unless you figured less people would see you little mermaid impression if you were on a Starship." Billy continued to chuckle. Over the course of the previous year he found Jaelle less and less frightening and was one of the few people he knew who didn't mind cracking jokes at her expense. (reply Jaelle) (reply Jaelle) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Spa – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1144) "Honestly, I was touring the Rec Deck and just checking out the facilities. First real starship assignment right, wanted to see what we had. We got spoiled on Mars, because if the base didn't have it, there was a whole planet to scope out and find something to do, but on a starship, our options are limited. So, this was the next stop on my tour. Otherwise I wouldn't have wandered into the pool area wearing my full uniform." "This ship is something else. Someone took into consideration the long voyages starships find themselves on and planned accordingly." "What about you? I mean taking the offer was easy for me, StratOps, seems like a lot more fun then checking an Admiral's mail. But you, giving up Intel on mars for a Starship doesn't exactly seem like a lateral move. Unless you figured less people would see you little mermaid impression if you were on a Starship." Billy continued to chuckle. Over the course of the previous year he found Jaelle less and less frightening and was one of the few people he knew who didn't mind cracking jokes at her expense. She smiled. "I still have my voice." Replying sharply at the little mermaid quip. "I go wherever I'm needed where I'll do the most good. In the end we all have a part to play, just mine was no longer on Mars." (Reply Billy) "Now can you be a dear and hand me that towel next to you?" She asked as she came out of the pool. She wet swimsuit stuck to her like a second skin hiding little to the imagination. Her hair feel around her face as the cool water flowed off her person. (Reply Billy) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter – Spa – StratOPS, Ensign SG Billy Alexander– 1147) I still have my voice." Replying sharply at the little mermaid quip. "I go wherever I'm needed where I'll do the most good. In the end we all have a part to play, just mine was no longer on Mars." "Well I guess that makes sense." Billy said with a smile. "Now can you be a dear and hand me that towel next to you?" As she got out of the pool Billy began to blush a little bit and turned his head away slightly as he reached for the towel and handed it to her. He waited for her to wrap the towel around her body the turned his head back to her, looking into her red eyes. "You know contacts or getting your eye color changed might make you less scary." (reply Foxglove) Billy smiled as his belly began to rumble a bit. "Sorry about that, it is about lunch time. Anyways, I'm gonna head to the Red Sand Tavern for a bite, take advantage of the great food before, you know, we depart. Maybe I'll see you there." (reply Foxglove) Billy then started towards the door, "Oh, and don't worry, I won't be going around telling people how normal and harmless you can be when you choose. But if you a hear a rumor that you like to jam out to showtunes. I promise, that wasn't me." And with a laugh he exited the pool area. (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Spa – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1150) You know contacts or getting your eye color changed might make you less scary." Billy's comment struck her, she smiled at him weakly. "I had to get them changed along with my hair color. It would cause issues with my past if it wasn't done." Billy smiled as his belly began to rumble a bit. "Sorry about that, it is about lunch time. Anyways, I'm gonna head to the Red Sand Tavern for a bite, take advantage of the great food before, you know, we depart. Maybe I'll see you there." "Do you want to see me there?" She let question slip from her lips and hang on the air. Billy then started towards the door, "Oh, and don't worry, I won't be going around telling people how normal and harmless you can be when you choose. But if you a hear a rumor that you like to jam out to showtunes. I promise, that wasn't me." And with a laugh he exited the pool area. She chuckled as he exited she headed toward to locker wondering what to do next. Should she head to the Red Sands Tavern, or should she distance herself. Billy had become a good friend one that could see past her mask, the hardness that she wore to keep people at arms length. Jaelle finished drying off before getting dressed again retrieving her things from the locker she was using. She took a moment to look in the mirror. Could she go ever go back to who she was. She left the locker room, maybe food would help quite her mind. (Reply Billy, iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Main Science Lab - CSO Lt jg Erin Cortez - 1202) Looking around with her hands on her hips, Erin smiled happily. The lab which was going to be her home away from home was on its way to being sorted. Erin had spent the last few hours running tests on all the equipment she had brought up from Mars and had transferred from Earth. (posted by Jackie) (Mars - Red Sands Tavern - CSO Lt jg Erin Cortez - 1215) Walking into the tavern, a smile on her face, Erin walked up to the bar, ordered a coffee and some food and sat at a table by the window. Knowing she was in a better place, she sipped at her coffee and glanced out of the window. Her heart skipped a beat. ~Billy…~ She watched as he walked through the door of the tavern and went to the bar. Not knowing if she should say anything, she turned her gaze back to the window and sipped at her coffee. (Reply any) (Posted by Jackie) (Mars Base– Red Sands Tavern – StratOPS Ensign Billy Alexander – 12:16) Billy walked into the Red Sans smiling. There were a lot of familiar faces, especially amongst the wait staff. He probably stopped by at least once a day. It was one of his favorite places to hang out, a place where everyone knew his name, and he liked that. As he walked in the waiters, bartenders, and many of the regulars looked t him and shouted, "BILLLAY" "Hey guys," he said as the took his seat at the bar. Out of the corner of his eye he saw his ex girlfriend Erin, but shrugged it off. ~She looks good, better than the last time I saw her. I hope this last year was good for her.~ Billy hadn't seen or spoken to her since she left after the incident with Gul Dulon to heal. He tried calling her, but she needed time, space, and so he gave it to her. She was reckless back then, not really seeing the big picture. He very much hoped that the year was good for her. He had seen that she was going to be on the Exeter as Chief Science Officer, and he hoped that the change of scenery was also beneficial for her. The year off was also good for him. He really came into his own as an adult. More sure of himself, more of what his father would call a smart alec, but still kind, generous, and bit of a sarcastic fool. He was himself and he loved it. He was a charmer, a flirt, and as some of his english friends called him, a good bloke but a bit of an arse. Sitting down at the bar, "The usual for me Norm, Dr. Pepper, Bacon Cheeseburger, with Jalapeños, chiptle cheddar, and than habanero BBQ sauce, fries and cole slaw on the side." Norm the bartender looked at him and smiled taking down the order, "So a Billy Burger, got it." Norm then went back to go put in the order and get Billy his drink. Billy smiled, he was going to miss the Red Sands, the place where everyone knew his name. Hopefully he could have that rapport with the Nine and Dine or the Starlight Lounge. He was a social being, and this was his kingdom. (reply any who want to join Billy) (posted by Will) (Mars – Red Sands Tavern – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1217) It wasn't that she didn't know the way to the Red Sands Tavern, but more to the point that she never really saw a reason to go. Normally choosing the quite company of herself and maybe a good book to the more boisterous environment of the Tavern. She opened the door to the sounds of conversations and friendly banter. However the noise soon died as Jaelle crossed the threshold and entered t he Red Sands. 'I dont know if this was such a good ideal.' The thought crossed her mind. 'What are you doing.' Was the next, as she made her way to the bar. Slowly the clamor raised back to normal levels but she could feel the eyes upon her from the regular customers. She slid unto a chair as the bartender came to her after dropping of Billy's order to him. "What can I get ya?" Norm asked. "Yes; a coke with a cherry added, and maybe..." she took a moment to glance over the menu. "The chicken alfedo." She continued after a moments time. Norm smiled and left to go fill her order, as she looked over the Tavern. (Reply Billy, iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (Mars – Red Sands Tavern – StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander – 1218) Billy looked at Jaelle and laughed. "You know for someone who projects an image of being able to kill someone with a mere look, when taken out of your element you look like a lost little child. I mean seriously, you walked in here, and its like you seemed like a kid at the mall who lost her parents in the crowd, and the ordering chicken alfredo. Thats like one of the safest foods in the universe." (reply Jaelle) Billy continued laughing, "I mean, you keep coming out to public places and I wont have to spread rumors to make people realize how normal you are. Little miss mermaid and now little miss chicken alfredo, no spice no kick." (reply Jaelle iyw) "Seriously, after this outing, people are gonna have a hard time believing that people ever called you murder fairy." Billy continued chuckling, trying his best not to snort his drink out of his nose. (reply Jaelle) (reply Jaelle) (posted by Will) (Mars – Red Sands Tavern – CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove – 1221) Billy looked at Jaelle and laughed. "You know for someone who projects an image of being able to kill someone with a mere look, when taken out of your element you look like a lost little child. I mean seriously, you walked in here, and its like you seemed like a kid at the mall who lost her parents in the crowd, and the ordering chicken alfredo. Thats like one of the safest foods in the universe." She eyed Billy searching her mind for the right retort, "Come to my world sometime, let's see who lost you'll be." Billy continued laughing, "I mean, you keep coming out to public places and I wont have to spread rumors to make people realize how normal you are. Little miss mermaid and now little miss chicken alfredo, no spice no kick." "Keep it up, I'll give more kick then you can handle." She sneered at Billy as he continued to laugh, it seemed the more she tried to fight back the more he laughed at her expense. "Seriously, after this outing, people are gonna have a hard time believing that people ever called you murder fairy." Billy continued chuckling, trying his best not to snort his drink out of his nose. "If thats how you wanna be, at least I'm not going with a heart attack burger. Do I need to have medical on stand by when you finish that." (Reply Billy) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - FO’s Quarters - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and VAdm Aimee Bracken - 2200) Ailynn was exhausted already, and the mountain of work was not going down any. She looked around the boxes that stacked up in her room that showed no sign of being unpacked, she looked at the sterility of the room around her, and sighed deeply. She stood up, and moved to the large window, crossing her arms across her chest and leant on the frame, sighing deeply. Behind her the door chimed. Not feeling particularly up to the company, but feeling that her position dictated that she couldn’t say no, she called out a touch irritably without turning. “Enter.” A few seconds silence, and a voice spoke gently, a voice that made her heart jump. “That the greeting you have for me?” Ailynn whirled around, suddenly full of emotion. “Mummy? Striding across the room she caught her mother in a deep embrace, and as she felt her mothers arms encircle her, her emotional defences crumbled, and she erupted into tears. “Darling girl what’s up?” Aimee’s voice soothed. “What’s the matter.” Ailynn lifted her face out of the nape of her mother's shoulder, and dried her eyes. Realising that her mother was in uniform, she pulled herself up. “My apologies Admiral. Please, welcome to the Exeter.” Aimee smiled warmly, watching her daughter struggle. Motioning to the rank pips at her chest, Aimee chuckled. “It is rather ridiculous isn’t it...I’m still just ‘mum’ Ailynn.” "They're 15 years overdue mum. Please come in, coffee?” Aimee shook her head. “I can’t stay long, just a flying visit, I have something mid morning, and it’s too late for coffee.” Ailynn nodded. “Not that it isn’t amazing to see you, but…” “Why am I here? A mum is allowed to congratulate her baby. Even if I don’t precisely understand the decision.” Ailynn nodded, and motioned to the couch. “I suppose I expected this. You have a right to know...all things considered.” “I’m not cross Ailynn, I just don’t get it...You’re 26, and without question the best surgeon in the fleet. The evening where you performed the procedures on Remae and Cortez set Medical HQ ablaze. I had the professor of neuro at my door demanding that I ‘did whatever it took’ to get you to lead his team. You led the team on Mars that has all but rebuilt the second largest medical facility in the system, and one of the largest in this part of the sector, all before your 26th birthday.” Ailynn opened her mouth and shut it a few times, a rare moment of not knowing what to say. “Well since you put it like that…” “And then I hear you took the Bridge Officers and Command courses, and are now the First Officer on one to the two newest and most advanced ships in existence? Baby, I’m not mad, its just…” “Mum…” “Ailynn I’m not saying this because you’re my daughter, but you were on track to be…” “Okaaay! Mum, please! Yes yes I was...but here’s the thing. I take 5 years out, expand not only myself, but help rebuild the Federation. Then, I return to Medical, and lead a team there. Maybe Professor of neuro...who knows, but I don’t want to be a one trick pony, I want to push myself in directions that I’m not precisely comfy with, and yes, at the moment it’s hitting me hard.” “Hmm.” “You don’t agree with my decision do you.” It wasn’t a question Ailynn sighed internally. “I…I…” her mother, the Admiral in charge of her daughter's former department faltered. “I don’t agree and I think you’ve made a big mistake Ailynn.” Ailynn said, her irritability and annoyance rising. “I don’t agree and I think you’ve made a big mistake Ailynn.” Her mother repeated sighing, voicing her opinion under duress. Her daughter knew her all too well, and her training, and ever-increasing responsibility had lessened her fear of tackling an issue head on. For a moment she pitied all the people that she herself had gone eye to eye with when she was a far younger woman. “This isn’t just a social...well done...is it mum.” Again, it sounded like a question, but really wasn’t one. “Dammit you’re difficult when you’re like this Ailynn Bracken.” Ailynn’s temper was rising rapidly; hunger and tiredness were not a good thing in her life, but coupled with the immense stress that she was under “When I’M like this? Well congratulations Princess Admiral but that might just make you the only perfect person in this whole bloody family!” “Ailynn...I…” Her voice fell off, “Don’t. Don’t you dare switch this onto me. Not this time. You come here, unannounced onto my first ship and the first one I’m on as FO. My name is on the launch plate downstairs did you see that? Did it even figure on your attention?” Aimee shook her head, silently. She could see that she had badly bungled this meeting. She’d only meant to say hi, but found herself voicing disapproval at the most personal time to her daughter. “Thought not.” Ailynn continued. “The only thing that I’m surprised about is that you didn’t bring a medkit to check that I’m STILL BLOODY CLEAN!” Aimee couldn’t help it. Her eyes flickered a thousandth of an inch toward the door; but she knew that Ailynn would notice. Even the moment she was born Aimee could see that Ailynn’s eyes didn’t miss anything. Sure enough, Aimee could read people’s tells like a book. She’d never really played poker, She got the concept, but no one ever played with her in any proper fashion. She saw her mother’s eyes flick to the door, and then back to her ashamed. “It’s outside…” Ailynn spoke, her voice whispered awfully. “You bitch.” “Ailynn...I…” “Go and get your kit…” Ailynn snapped. Confusion reigned on her mother’s face. “...I…” “...and keep walking. I never want to speak to you again…” Ailynn’s voice was ice cold. “...Ailynn…” “Admiral…” again. “...I…” Aimee’s voice was full of tears, her eyes desolate, but in her mind was the knowledge that this was indeed all her fault. All she’d had to say was ‘baby I’m so proud of you’. She hadn’t said that though she’d undermined her daughters achievements at every step this evening. Slowly she stood up and stepped out of the room, taking a look at her beloved daughter, the tiny baby, with such profound health problems, that she still to this moment worried about every second, but she’d failed to notice had grown into a tall, beautiful, strong and proud woman; and Aimee had treated her like… She stopped at the door, seeing the fury in her daughter’s eyes, cut her to the core, but that wasn’t the only wound, the fury hid a pain, an upset and obvious signs of feeling stabbed in the back were plainly evident on her face. “...” Aimee tried to speak. “Goodbye...Admiral. My bloods will be filed in the morning, and flagged to your desk...Sir.” The door closed behind her mother as she departed, and she fell to her knees, her shell breaking, and howling an almost animalisic shreik of despair. Tears of desolation poured down her face onto the rug that she found herself lying on. Eventually, still lying where she was...her body exhausted...Sleep took her for its own. (Reply None) (Posted by Mark) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -5 Stardate: 2445.08.28 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken and Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams (SPC)- 0830) Two hours ago Ailynn had woken, still lying on the rug in the centre of the floor, and for the most wonderful half a second wondered why she was lying there, still fully clothed, and not in her bed. Then, with the icy-cold curtain of dread, the memories of the previous night’s argument descended on her, rendering her soul, removing the night’s rest, and leaving only bitter, cold memory and the most deepest of shame in its wake. So she had sat, in that same place hugging her knees, her face buried. She couldn’t speak to Trip about it. Her shame was so deep, that she was even scared to speak to her closest friend, or Erin who was probably her other nearest confidante; so she had waited, waited until the only other person in the universe that understood her was alone in her office. She hit the doorchime, and stepped inside following a voice of entry. Allowing it to close behind her, ~a coffin-lid on my fate~ she thought, as the doors slid shut, silently in their judgement behind her. “Lock. Command authorisation.” [Authorisation accepted doors locked] Ashlyn looked up as Ailynn entered. In all the years she’d known her, back at school, and in the last year, she had never seen her this dishevelled, this fidgety, Ailynn was highly strung, sure, but to the extent of the woman in front of her? Never. "Ailynn? Whats up honey? In the nicest way, you... you look dreadful." Ailynn paced back and forth biting her nails, unsure of where to begin. Slowly she stopped pacing. This was the sign that Ash had sat back and waited for, she'd come to know Ailynn the adult very well in the last year, she was beginning to truly understand her niece. "Honey?" Ashlyn was younger than Ailynn was, but in her mind a billion maternal neurons, all genetically preprogrammed to look after her own, fired. She stood up slowly, and stepped slowly over to the quivering Ailynn, where she carefully enveloped her in a deep and caring embrace. She felt Ailynn’s slim figure relax into her arms, and felt the warmth at her shoulder and the gentle shaking that told her that Ailynn was crying once more. It was at that moment that she truly appreciated how tall Ailynn was, the poor girl was bent over a good few inches. “Ssssh Ssssh Ssssh” She found herself gently rocking forward and back. Slowly, Ailynn’s breathing came back to normal, and she pulled herself out from Ashlyn’s unknowingly maternal embrace. “I’m so sorry Ash. I know you have soooo much to do.” Ailynn spoke, her voice a quiver. “Nothing that can’t be put aside for family baby. What’s up?” A Bracken by nature, and a Williams by Marriage had had the profoundest affect on this girl from the poor side of the tracks. She’d found herself the crux of two very very tight and loving families, and that had awoken her a sense of maternal familial duty that she wasn’t even sure Trip completely understood. “I’ve done something soooo bad Ash.” Ailynn was still shaking. ~This girl is one of the strongest, most level headed…~ It was then that Ash looked at Ailynn, perhaps truly looked for the first time, and she didn’t see the strong, unflappable Officer that she’d known recently. She saw the schoolgirl that she’d know all those years ago, the one who though Ash hadn’t then realised it, was so much more sensitive than her manner suggested. “Lynn?” Ash never used the common abbreviation of Ailynn’s name, it just wasn’t her thing. “Honey what’s happened.” “Mu…” A sigh. “Your sister...we had a massive massive argument….” Ailynn’s eyes looked sadly toward her, red raw from crying. “I said such bad things...I told her…” She welled up, and cried once more. “Ash I was so angry, and so desperate for just a thank you...I lashed out...I told her….” Ailynn was hyperventilating again. “Lynn...Breath baby….with me...ssssssh ssssssh ssssssh ssssssh….breath…” “I told her I never want to speak to her again…” “...” “Ash...please?” Silence. Ashlyn found herself kissing the top of Ailynn’s head, giving Lynn the time for her highly strung nature to unwind. “Honey, I don’t pretend to understand my sister as well as you know your mum, but…” Ailynn looked up, rubbing her eyes. “Sorry” “I’d gamble that she’s having a similar conversation with mum as I am with you about now.” “So what’s your point?” Ailynn spoke quietly. “And when did you become so authoritative and sensible?” Ash laughed gently. “This is me, This is me how I’ve always been, I’ve just never had anyone to open my heart to.” She smiled. “Lynne…” Ash never used the common contraction of her name. “You and your mum are so crazy similar it’s scary. SO clever...so focussed, but you and her are very emotional creatures.” She continued. “Your mum really adores you more than anything, and I think that you know that. Sure, she really didn’t approach it at all well, but...and honey...please don’t take this the wrong way, in her eyes, you’ve thrown things away, years of work and study. Your past, although now in control, you have to admit will always give your family another reason to worry.” Ailynn flushed, opening her mouth to reply, but Ash carried on. “Sweetie, I’ve spoken to Aimee a lot in the last few months, and she was so worried she’d lose you, your health when you were born was touch and go for a long time. She thought she was going to lose you just after she lost your father. So...yeah she’s a touch overprotective, but…” “I’ve been a thoughtless cow again haven’t I.” “Thoughtless no, you’re mum upset and insulted you, and I get that, but you perhaps didn’t handle it like…” “Like a First Officer should have?” Ashlyn shook her head gently. “My terminal is there. Speak to her.” Ailynn nodded, and sat down, opening a channel to her mother’s office. A few moments later, her mother’s face appeared, she looked red around the eyes. “Ash, this isn’t the best of ti...Ailynn?” “Mum? I’m sorry, I was cross and I lashed out…” (Reply none) (Posted by Mark) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and StratOPS Ensign SG Billy Alexander– 0900) Trip sat in the ready room, the two interns were across the desk from him sitting in the chairs opposite his, Billy was standing behind him. Trip smiled at them both and began speaking. "Rissa, Lana, welcome. I was hoping to have had the chance to have this meeting earlier, but unfortunately things got away from me. So I'm glad to finally get the chance to sit with both of you and have this meeting." Trip smiled and took a sip of his tea, "Oooh, still a little too hot. Anyways, while both of you will be acting Ensign Junior grades, you are still for intents and purposes 4th year cadets, and Admiral Williams has a list of academic requirements that he would like you to meet. You will primarily report to your respective department heads, as they will be giving you most of your day to day work. They are both good young officers, so I hope that you can learn from both of them." (reply Lana, Rissa iyw) "The other thing to remember, is that even though you are acting ensigns, and that many of the officers on board where only one, two, or three years ahead of you in the academy, they are here on a full commission, learn from them as well. Even though it might be hard to take orders from someone you used to hit up the pub with on campus, that is the reality. Also learn from the Enlisted personnel. They have a lot of experience and are a great avenue for learning and growth. Trust them and trust their opinion and advice and you will go far." (reply Lana, Rissa iyw) "Lastly, for you academic requirements, such as your thesis paper and other assignments, you will be reporting to Ensign Alexander here. Along with his duties as Strategic Operations Officer, he will be doubling as our Intern coordinator. So any issues you might have, whether with personnel, or with feeling like you are not doing enough, or with your academic assignments, they should all go to him." Trip then turned to Billy, "Billy, any words?" Billy smiled and looked at the young interns, "I look forward to getting to know you and working with you, and making sure you get a full education here, like you would at the academy. I might not be the sharpest crayon in the box, but I'm organized and dedicated to making sure this year is as fruitful as it can be. Now then do either of you have any questions?" (reply Lana, Rissa) (reply Lana, Rissa) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter - Deck 8-Room 8-1225- PO3 Sytuk - 0911) Finally done with moving the last of his things to Exeter, Sytuk looked around his shared crew quarters. The crew member who had previously been assigned to share quarters with him requested a transfer. Sytuk preferred it that way instead of having to be around someone who clearly didn't want to be around him. Sytuk decided he would use this alone time to catch up on some much needed work. He set up his canvas and opened some containers of paint and began his much needed work. He started with soft green textures and strokes, he then switched brushes and began working blue and greys onto the canvas, shortly after that he began painting with brown and a darker grey. It wasnt long before a clearly defined image was coming to life on the canvas. Finishing the blending of colors and skillfully applying his name to lower lefthand corner of the canvas , he set his brush down and stepped backwards towards the couch and took a seat. He sat looking at the image in front of him. It was an painting of a small stone footbridge passing over a small stream. The stream was banked by beautiful lush green grass. The time of day portrayed in the painting was early afternoon ,late morning. Where the sun was just right. Sytuk had come to admire images of structures and nature during the daylight. He found himself envious of others who could enjoy such pleasures in real life, He was limited because of his Reman skin and eyes being sensitive to the bright light of the day. The Sytuk nonetheless liked to imagine that sometimes he was in his paintings feeling the sunlight gently touching his skin, and a summer breeze carrying the scent of flowers and nature on it's back. He raised his left hand slightly and imagined how the grass would feel on his finger tips. He took a deep relaxing breath and leaned back on the couch. ( reply any) ( posted by davis- spc PO3 Sytuk) (USS Exeter - Deck 3 - Merek/ Shara shared quarters-COO Lieutenant jg Ravok - 1619) Ravok finished hanging their bat'leths on the wall. He stepped back and eyed up their evenness, they were perfect as far as he could tell. He backed up a little more and nearly stepped on the dog, Venus. " Would you stop doing that? " he yelled. Venus quickly moved out of his way and made her way to her bedding with one of her toys. He shook his head laughing. Walking over to one of the moving crates he pulled a framed image display out of it . The image was from Trip's wedding, a picture of Keira and himself sitting at a table with Ire and Greta. All four of them were raising their glasses and smiling. Ravok placed the image on a shelf. He looked around the quarters , Keira had done most of the work setting the place up. His desk was set up and ready to go and so was hers. Ravok walked over to the L shaped couch and sat down. ~ Only a few more days.~he thought. ( reply any ) ( posted by Davis) (USS Exeter - Captain’s Personal Quarters- Commanding Officer Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Civilian Ashyln Williams- 18:00) “What a day huh?” Trip said as he hung the last picture frame on the wall. It was a photo from the wedding. It had Ash and Trip in the middle, flanked on each side by Trip’s Parents, Dale, and the wedding party, the groomsmen Ravok and Ire, the bridesmaids Ronnie and Sienna, the best woman, Ailynn, and the maid of honor Aimee. A happy photo from a happy day. Ash looked radiant in her wedding dress and Trip’s dress uniform was pressed to perfection. It was a memorable day, even Ravok’s toast, which while heartfelt was very Romulan, even the good advice had secrets. Trip stood admiring the living room area. It looked nice and homey. Ash sat in what had already become her favourite seat in the room, one end of the couch near the wall, adjacent to a large window. She loved the view across toward the aft of the ship, with one of the large nacelles in view. “I’m exhausted already. But this room is lovely.” “So the living room is set, the office is set, the bedroom is set, and the boxes are unpacked. Replicating new stuff and leaving our home on Mars fully furnished was a great idea honey.” “It makes sense while we’re still in dock. Saves packing another 4 times. We even have copies of some things that are back home.” “So when do you think we should go get Layla and start sleeping up here?” Ashlyn opened her hands and shrugged. “Up to you. I kind of want to settle, and I kind of feel you do to? Longer that Layla has to settle into here the better.” "So tonight then?" Trip asked. “Say tomorrow, first thing. I can be in here all day, and keep an eye on her while she explores.” "I guess it will be good to be on call when the crew gets situated. We're so young. The officers that is. Average year out of the academy for the officers is maybe two. The Enlisted crew are all seasoned. But outside of Foxglove, the officers we're all a bunch of babies. Not even sure if the average age of officers is over 30. And I bring down that average." “Trip, you’re mistaking age for ability, years service with ambition, and sheer bloody-minded drive. The recent sweeping changes in the Admiralty should tell you that. The people in the jobs now, like mum, Aimee, your parents, should have been the young, driven headstrong new Admirals 20 years ago.” "I know, and I put on a brave front, sure. But I just want to make sure I earn the crew's trust." She smiled. “They trust you beyond.” "But that's the thing, sweetheart. Pretty much every officer here went to the academy at the same time. And I picked the best officers I could for senior staff. But imagine seeing your classmates jump past You career wise at warp speed. Where my picks to much nepotism?" “Trip...okay. Lets be unfair. Ailynn...” she stopped as he carried on. "My first office is my best friend. My ops and flight chief are my former squadron mates. My chief engineer is shacking up with my ops chief, my science officer used to date my cousin. My Chief Medical Officer is the half brother of my first officer. The only one with no ties is my tactical officer. But i mean I picked the best available." “You’re picking on ties that in a month would have existed anyway. Tell me something. Ailynn…” "Yes?" “Did you pick her because of some stupid kids promise, some even stupider blood pact thing? Or did you pick her because you absolutely trust her, You trust her to tell you when you’re being an idiot. Did you pick her because you were friends at school, or because she’s the most intelligent person in most rooms she goes into, and she’d have been snapped up by someone else?” "I picked her because outside of you, my sister, and my parents there is no one else i trust as explicitly and implicitly as her. We've been dreaming of this for so long, she already knows my tendencies and instincts as well as I do. It had to be her, because she always tells it to me straight. I know. Cant a guy be nervous?" “Of course, but you’re being nervous about the wrong things. Who cares why each Head of Section was picked; a months time, they’ll have something different to gossip about. You hungry?” "A bit," Trip said with a sigh. "And you're right. Its just hard not to feel the pressure. I'm 23. A baby so to speak. But you're right, I have a good team to back me up. Trust in them and I'll be ok. Trust in you." “Absolutely.” She slid over and sat next to him. “I get that you’re on edge, and I’d be more concerned if you weren’t. I’m far from an expert, but your team is crazy talented.” Ashlyn’s stomach chose that point to interject, and rumble loudly. “Sorry.” Trip stood up, "so food, do we eat up here or hit up the Chinese restaurant by your old apartment?" “Let’s get Chinese...could be the last in a while." "Lead the way. I may be the captain, but you're the boss." Trip said with a chuckle. Ash smiled as she slipped her boots back on, and then jumped up, adjusting her hair out the collar of her top. She slipped her arm into the crook of Trips elbow and playfully nudged him with her shoulder. “Come on you. Lets get food.” (Reply none) (Posted by Will and Mark (Ashlyn Williams) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -4 Stardate: 2445.08.29 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams (SPC)- 10:00) Ashlyn looked over the ever-increasing list of things that needed her attention, an increasing list of staff, stock items, deliveries and who knew what else. Dimly she began wondering if a ‘list of all her lists’ would be the way to go. However, she drew comfort from the fact that whatever her burden was, it paled into insignificance when compared to the burden that the Senior Staff, and Command crew were carrying. Thinking of Senior Staff reminded her of her own team. There were about 100 civilian staff on board, predominantly in the 4 main rec areas of deck 9, the Starlight Lounge, Nine and Dine, the coffee shop ‘bean me up Scotty!’ and the gym/spa. It was time to catch up with the managers of these areas to check how things were progressing in their respective areas of the ship. She tapped her commbadge, something that still felt strange after a year. “Ashlyn Williams to Recreational Deck Managers, please report to my Office at 1030 please.” (Reply DuBois, Manager ‘Bean me up Scotty’) (Posted by Mark(SPC)) (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Coffee Shop Manager, Vulan Tlurg - 10:29) The short tellarite barged into the room carrying a tray a drinks she spotted the woman at her desk and slammed the tray infront of her. "I had heard you were ugly but noone told me your face had been sucked out of the airlock at full warp. Try the spa, they might fix things." (Reply Williams) "Talk less, youre sucking the air out of the room. Here I'm making new drinks, Plasma coolant and Dilithian shots. Or as you call them green tea latte and peppermint esspresso." (reply William, any in room) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Caity Dubois - 1031) Walking into the office, Caity pulled her uniform straight. Having not had to wear a uniform for a very long time, she felt uncomfortable but was not about to admit it. Nodding an hello to those present, she looked towards who she assumed was the Recreational manager and said, “I apologise for being a minute or so late.” (Reply Williams) “No, the bar is fine. Just got caught in the midst of stocking up and shouting at one of my contacts on Earth who promised me a case of the finest bourbon known to man that hasn’t arrived yet.” (Reply Williams) “Between that and getting into a spat with Bert this morning, it’s been a hell of a day.” (Reply Williams) “Bert? Oh he’s my four foot long albino python. He’s only a baby yet. Hasn’t learnt manners.” she replied with a smile. (Reply Williams) (reply Williams, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Rec Directors Office - Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams- 1032) A short tellarite barged into the room carrying a tray of drinks and slammed the tray infront of her. "I had heard you were ugly but noone told me your face had been sucked out of the airlock at full warp. Try the spa, they might fix things." Ashlyn smiled internally, it was somewhat odd, but she quite enjoyed dealing with Tellerites, however the studied insults did not come naturally to her and she’d had to work on them. “It’s funny that you should mention the spa as you are so clearly absent of any familiarity of the concept, your uniform alone, if one would be generous enough to call it that, appears as if you simply poured your breakfast down your front in order to eat...it...later.” "Talk less, you're sucking the air out of the room. Here I'm making new drinks, Plasma coolant and Dilithian shots. Or as you call them green tea latte and peppermint espresso." Ash looked at the tray of offered drinks. In truth she wasn’t a massive fan of what she’d call the fancy designer combinations, much preferring a simple filter or americano with milk, but the quality of the gesture from her colleague impressed her. She was about to reply when someone else entered the office, Ashlyn recognised the girls face from her file photo. “I apologise for being a minute or so late.” “It’s all good, any problems with the bar?” “No, the bar is fine. Just got caught in the midst of stocking up and shouting at one of my contacts on Earth who promised me a case of the finest bourbon known to man that hasn’t arrived yet.” “Okay, well done, keep on it. Anything else?” “Between that and getting into a spat with Bert this morning, it’s been a hell of a day.” “Bert? New staff member?” “Bert? Oh he’s my four foot long albino python. He’s only a baby yet. Hasn’t learnt manners.” she replied with a smile. “Surely you could get Bert to deal with your supply guy on earth?” She smiled and winked gently. “Save us the energy credits, you wouldn’t need to feed Bert for a whole year.” (Reply DuBois) “My apologies. Caity...this is Vulan Tlurg, the Manager of our Coffee shop. He’s provided samples of a new range.” (reply Tlurg) “So. How are we....SitRep, 4 days until launch.” (Reply Tlurg/DuBois) (posted by MArk(SPC)) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -3 Stardate: 2445.08.30 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter – Captain’s Ready Room – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1345) The chime could be heard announcing her presence from outside the Vessel Master’s Inner Sanctum. Once allowed to do so, she entered carrying a foot and a half wooden case underneath her right arm. She felt a little guilty having started this project over a year ago, but had just finished it last night. (Reply Trip) “This has actually been long overdue.” She said pulling the wooden case from under her arm and then instantly realized how bad that sounded. Alluding to some kind of long planned out assassination attempt. (Reply Trip) “No, no, no. Nothing like that!” She said apologetically. “It is however long overdue. I started this shortly after the mission that you activated the EMH that saved my soon to be boyfriend’s life. I feel really guilty for not finishing it sooner.” She placed the case on his desk. “With building your ship and supervising crews to the Illuminar as well…I’d been busy.” (Reply Trip) “That mission made me realize that our missions can and often do leave us no choice but to fend for our lives. Some times literally tooth and nail. This is a way of saying thanks by giving you something a little better to do that with.” She explained. (Reply Trip) She nodded. “Go ahead. Open it.” Opening the deeply stained cherry wood box revealed an approximately 400 mm blade from tip to pommel. The blade was made in the “Jim Bowie” style with a clipped point, polished to a satin finish that glinted a light blue in the light. Fullers were common in this type of blade to make it lighter and faster in the swing, but what also made this one unique is that it had three fullers running down the center of the blade. The handle was hidden tang walnut wood with a polished brass cross-guard and formed pommel cap. On the bottom of the pommel cap was the symbol of the Exeter with two engraved phrases encircling it. The Ship Motto “Semper Fidelis” was on the base and around the top were the words “Si vis pacem, para bellum”. Underneath the blade was a leather carrying case that could be affixed to an away uniform belt and an 18 gauge wire display mount. (Reply Trip) “Oh, the metal. I salvaged it from the wreckage of the “God of War” your first ship that survived the mission but didn’t survive after. So it’s the same tritanium/duranium alloy that most Starfleet ships are made out of, plenty strong.” she said. (Reply Trip) “Yeah, they’re called fullers. Usually a blade like this has one deep one going down the middle. Yours has three, for “Trip”.” (Reply Trip, room for reactions, questions) “I was wondering if you’d seen Ire, He’s next on my list.” She said. (Reply Trip) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Captain’s Ready Room –CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams – 1347) "Lieutenant Merek," Trip said as the chief engineer entered his office. "What brings you to my neck of the woods?" This has actually been long overdue.” She said pulling the wooden case from under her arm. Trip looked at her and with a sly smile, "You know, if you're going to kill me, can I at least say goodbye to my wife first. You know, common courtesy." “No, no, no. Nothing like that!” She said apologetically. “It is however long overdue. I started this shortly after the mission that you activated the EMH that saved my soon to be boyfriend’s life. I feel really guilty for not finishing it sooner.” She placed the case on his desk. “With building your ship and supervising crews to the Illuminar as well…I’d been busy.” "Hey don't worry about it. And I didn't think you were going to kill me. At least not directly. You're Romulan, I expect more subtlety from you. So what's up?" “That mission made me realize that our missions can and often do leave us no choice but to fend for our lives. Some times literally tooth and nail. This is a way of saying thanks by giving you something a little better to do that with.” She explained. "Thank you," Trip said looking at the box. She nodded. “Go ahead. Open it.” Opening the deeply stained cherry wood box revealed an approximately 400 mm blade from tip to pommel. The blade was made in the “Jim Bowie” style with a clipped point, polished to a satin finish that glinted a light blue in the light. Fullers were common in this type of blade to make it lighter and faster in the swing, but what also made this one unique is that it had three fullers running down the center of the blade. The handle was hidden tang walnut wood with a polished brass cross-guard and formed pommel cap. On the bottom of the pommel cap was the symbol of the Exeter with two engraved phrases encircling it. The Ship Motto “Semper Fidelis” was on the base and around the top were the words “Si vis pacem, para bellum”. Underneath the blade was a leather carrying case that could be affixed to an away uniform belt and an 18 gauge wire display mount. "Wow, this looks very well crafted, expertly made." He said holding the blade. "The metal looks a bit...different from a standard blade." “Oh, the metal. I salvaged it from the wreckage of the “God of War” your first ship that survived the mission but didn’t survive after. So it’s the same tritanium/duranium alloy that most Starfleet ships are made out of, plenty strong.” she said. "And what are these grooves in the blade?" Yeah, they’re called fullers. Usually a blade like this has one deep one going down the middle. Yours has three, for “Trip”.” Smiling Trip walked over to the replicator and replicated a glass display case that would fit the dimensions of the blade and the mount. He then situated the blade, unsheathed in the display case, then making sure it was secure and looked nice, placed it on the corner of his desk. "There we go, much better. Thank you very much Lieutenant. I greatly appreciate this gift, and I hope I never have to use it." Trip then looked at Keira, "Seems like you have something else on your mind?" “I was wondering if you’d seen Ire, He’s next on my list.” She said. "Well, I'm not quite sure, if he's not on the bridge, he could be in the main shuttle bay, or of somewhere doing lord knows what with Greta. Hopefully he's not crashing any of our new toys." (reply Merek iyw) "Keira, thank you once again for this gift, I will treasure it greatly." (reply Merek) (reply Merek) (posted by Will) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: To boldly go Day: -2 Stardate: 2445.08.31 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter, Quarters - aOPS Ens M'Rurrh - 0055) Entering her quarters, M'Rurrh thrust her arms above her head and stretched, enjoying to feel of her tired back being forced to relax. The pre-launch schedule of final upgrades, diagnostics and even completing one or two parts of the actual build were pushing the crew to work at a pace they'd rarely seen on Mars. ~The joys of a static base near the heart of Starfleet!~ A large yawn escaped her lips and despite feeling the lure of her bed, M'Rurrh sat down to compose a long overdue message. Careful hints and sideways conversations over time had determined which of her crewmates would be interested and it was now time to pounce. Coding the message as personal to avoid any embarrassing on-duty deliveries, M'Rurrh combined a sound file [NRPG: https://youtu.be/ESVj75HyKek] with the text: Holodeck 1 1400 Here There Be Dragons (posted by MCD) (USS Exeter, Holodeck 1 - aOPS Ens M'Rurrh - 1358) The curled horns of M'Rurrh's helmet felt heavy as she stepped forward. It was an odd mix of excitement and boredom as she ran through the opening minutes of the program she'd first discovered at the Academy but had since began many, many times. Kneeling and placing her head on the axeman's block, she heard the sound of the Holodeck door opening and had time to call out "Welcome to Skyrim!" before a massive, black dragon descended to a tower on her other side and the sky cracked with thunder and flaming debris. (Reply any who wish to join for quick dip into Tamriel) (Posted by MCD) (USS Exeter, Holodeck 1 - COO- LIEUTENANT jg. Ravok- 1359) Ravok had mad an inquiry into the location of his assistant chief of operations. She was in the holodeck, as he stood in front of the holodeck he read the program in progress. " Skyrim?" He opened the doors and entered. He saw Ensign M'Rurrh kneeling down, about to get decapitated. "Welcome to Skyrim " she yelled out. Ravok stepped in and the archway disappeared behind him, suddenly a large dragon landed on top of a large Tower and let out a thunderous noise...people started running anywhere they could as the dragon proceeded to destroy the town around them. He saw Ensign M'Rurrh get up and run away with a man toward another tower, her hands were bound. " Why the hell not.. " Ravok said to himself as he ran toward the tower they were in. As soon as he entered the dragon busted through the side wall of the tower, he watched as Ensign M'Rurrh jumped through the large opening, Ravok ran up the steps and jumped through after her...." Ensign M'Rurrh!!" He yelled as he rolled across the wooden floor of the partially destroyed upper floor of the building he jumped into. ( reply M'Rurrh) ( posted by davis) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: Unknown Stardate: Unknown >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Gamma Quadrant, Undisclosed Location - The Vessel - 1833) The group had searched several nearby systems. The calculations involved in celestial drift over eons are difficult if you have all the right detailed information, but they were going off of ancient forbidden scripts, rumors and bad conjecture. They were running out of options. If this part of the plan fell through, they didn't have a plan. ~We need to start thinking what we are going to do if we don't find it.~ :: Make them search harder. It must be here!:: The entity insisted. He'd been doing a lot more of that lately, as he'd grown stronger. The Bajoran empathized with him, countless millenia since he had been cast out of his home. Literally across the cosmos from the ancestral world of Bajor, only to wallow at the back door with barely a "porch light" to keep him company. Not unsimilar to the Bajoran man's own plight. His father was a member of the clergy. Joining to do the Prophet's work after the atrocities he witnessed in the Cardassian occupation. His father even joined Starfleet to fight in the Dominion War that threatened their home. Joining the clergy had been easy. Many all remembered his father fondly. Early in his career as he came to be recognized as archeologist of sorts, it was actually quite prestigious. Searching out artifacts lost because of the "reallocation" by the Cardassians. He started suspecting that the Vedek Assembly was holding back information. When he confronted them, he was cast out. "WE FOUND SOMETHING!" Yelling from another section roused him out of his reminiscing. "Be careful not to touch it. It could be very fragile." He called back. :: Let them touch it. It should be quite amusing to see one of them go blind or deaf.:: ~ No. These are my people. I care for every one of my flock.~ He hurried over to where the Acolyte had called out. She was standing and did as instructed. She did not touch or meddle with it. She bowed as he approached. Her loose brown hair cascaded out of her red hooded robes. There hidden underneath a pile of rubble, was a rectangular bundle wrapped in animal skin. He knelt down and placed his hands on it. ::YES! This is it.:: The entity inside him buzzed with a mix of joy and avarice. As he gripped it and began to pull it out of the scattered remains of an archway, the vessel could feel a tingling fire, a hollow warmth spread from his hands up his arms and across his chest. As he pulled it free the last bit of resistance gave way, the skeletal hand that held the book and gripped it tight snapped off at what remained of the forearm. He tossed the forgotten would-be holder of the tome remains to the floor. He started by unfurling the animal skin wrap. ::YES!:: It revealed a leather bound tome containing innumerous sheets of impossibly preserved parchment. ~This is the Kosst Amojan ? I thought it looked different, and wasn't it destroyed in the battle against the Emissary of the Prophets?~ :: This is the first draft of that book. It's not as pretty but it has what we need.:: ~ How do you know that?~ ::Because those are my words. I was there when it was written.:: He opened the ancient tome and was greeted with blank pages. "What?" He exclaimed in disbelief, "it's empty." ::The words are there. You just need to coax them out. You know how.:: "The knowledge is revealed if watered by the Prophet's greatest joy." He absentmindedly said softly. ~No.~ :: You must we are so close.:: "I refuse." He said defiantly as he stood up, the book fell off his lap and landed, spine down and wide open. "Master? What's wrong? Did I not do as you asked?" The young woman spoke as her head came up from the bow. :: If you don't then....:: The entity summoned his will and thrust it down into the man's own hands. The hands of the vessel were worn like gloves. It drew the dagger he kept at his waist line. In one swift motion the hands grabbed the woman and shoved the blade up though her abdomen and into her chest cavity. Confusion and sadness washed across her face. Just as the vessel started to weep at the loss of a valued follower and friend, seeing it with his own eyes but not his intent. He was powerless to stop it. Bright red blood, her blood, fell onto the pages of the book. An explosion of red-orange fire erupted forth sending the young woman's corpse flying six meters. Bolstered by the Pah Wraith's power the vessel was unmoved. :: I will rest now. Start the next phase of the plan. Like our agreement.:: The presence of the wraith was muted now as it slumbered gaining back its strength. ~ At least my daughter wasn't here to see this.~ He thought wiping a year from his cheek. (Reply none) (posted by Todd) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 1 Stardate: 2445.09.01 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Bridge - Commanding Officer, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0800) The time had come, and Trip was nervous and anxious. There was a larger crowd assembled around Mars than he had anticipated or he had liked. What if something went wrong? Sure the Exeter had already had a shakedown cruise and had been officially commissioned, going from NX-1672 Exeter, to the NCC-1672-C USS Exeter, the first ship commissioned of the Exeter class of Starship. There were at least three others currently being constructed at Utopia Planitia that would eventually be commissioned as the NCC-1717-D USS Yorktown, the NCC-1709-C USS Lexington, and the NCC-1702-C USS Hood. By the end of the year, the ship class designed to harken back to the days of the Constitution class would be joined by her sister ships, all named after original Constituion class ships, with their original NCC registration numbers restored, just like with the Exeter. Sitting in the captain's chair he was flanked by his First Officer Ailynn Bracken on his right and his Third Officer and Chief Intelligence Officer, Jaelle Foxglove on his left. The adrenaline was coursing through his system. There was a level of increasing anxiety that he was certain would dissipate the further he got from Mars and closer to exiting the system. They were ordered to go to Bajor and investigate the situation of the planet that seemed to have gotten more chaotic as the years progressed. With his nerves a bit rattled, he knew he had to continue to put on a face that showed he knew what he was doing. Not so much a fake it until you make it, but doing his best to show a sense of confidence that was hiding the reality that he was still just a 23 year old trying to figure out what he was doing. "Petty Officer Kervik, open a ship wide channel." (reply Kervik) "All hands, this is the Captain. This is a momentous occasion for all of us. The time has come for the Exeter to depart as a fully commissioned Starship. All the hard work that the designers, engineers, and crew have put into this dream, the work that we have done over the last week, has led to this point. We are the first crew of this Ship. We have the honor to bring life to this beauty of engineering and technology. We will soon depart Mars orbit and make our way to Bajor. I don't know exactly the situation we will encounter when we get there, as Starfleet's presence has been minimal for at least a decade, but out goal is to reconnect with our friends on Bajor and remind the quadrant that Starfleet is still here and we are doing our best to get back to business. Traveling at our cruising speed of warp 8, we should arrive at Bajor in 18 days. Ladies and gentlemen, this is our new reality. This is our home, our ship. This mission, this cruise, it's just day one. As I have said many times over the course of this last week, I am proud of all of you, and I know you will perform exceptionally. Now then, all hands, prepare for departure." Trip then nodded at PO Kervik and the channel was closed. He then turned to his First Officer, "Well Lynn, you ready?" (reply Bracken) "Good, then let's do this." "Lt. Williams," Trip said with a huge smile on his face. "Set course for Bajor. Quarter impulse until we clear mars orbit. Full impulse until we are at a safe distance for warp." (reply Ire) "And Lieutenant, please do your best not to crash. There are 500 lives on board who are counting on you not to hit anything." Trip then let out a little chuckle so that everyone knew he was joking. (reply Ire) "Well then, let's get this show on the road." Trip took in a deep breath. He looked at Ire and Ravok, his two close friends both at the helm and the ops station at the front of bridge. The anxiety was beginning to settle and knew in his heart of hearts that everything would be ok. "Alright Ire," he said dropping the formality, "Rev it up and take us out." (reply Ire) (reply all) (posted by Will Banowsky) (USS Exeter - Bridge- - COO- Lieutenant jg. Ravok - 0802) "Petty Officer Kervik, open a ship wide channel." Commander Willams ordered. Sitting at the auxiliary one station next to the engineering stations, Nesha quickly opened a channel " Open Sir." After Trip had finished his message to crew about the departure. He nodded his head to Nesha, she closed the channel. Ravok listened as Trip gave the order to Ire to set course and speed. Ravok made a final systems check of the impulse systems and checked to make sure Flight systems were in the green. ~ You got this buddy ~ Ravok thought to himself. After a playful exchange between Trip and Ire. The time had finally come. "Alright Ire, Rev it up and take us out." Trip said to Ire. After Ire initiated the impulse drive and they began to move. Ravok did a sensor reading of the asteroid belt they were going to circumvent. A rogue asteroid was going to miss their flight path by 613.4 kilometers. Ravok thought about the day he met both Trip and Ire, he even thought about their first official meeting. Trip was eating chocolate chip cookies while Ensign Petrova was going off the hinges about a flight rotation schedule, and Ire was having a nervous breakdown. This memory made Ravok smile. ~ Now look at you guys.~ he thought to himself. Ravok turned his chair towards the right side of his terminal. In this position he was facing Ire and could see trip out of the peripheral vision of his right eye Ravok thought about the mission briefing before the battle of the Kuiper belt. Trip had said that sometimes a chair is just a chair. Ravok turned his head slightly and looked at Trip for brief moment and thought. ~ Sometimes a chair is just a chair, but the chair your sitting in is unlike any other you have occupied in your life. It's a command chair , your command ~ Ravok turned back, facing forward and smiled. ( reply any) ( posted by davis) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/ 3O, Lieutenant(jg) Jaelle Foxglove - 0803) Jaelle sat in her seat monitoring communication channels from mars but also from deep sensor probes closer to Bajor it would give them a small glimpse of what was futher away. She figetted in her chair trying to get comfortable. The center chairs even after all these years still seemed to swamp her smaller frame. Additionally Trip sent down word that all command officers while on the bridge would wear command red. It not that Jaelle had an issue with the color red. But there was a nagging statistic that more red shirts had met there end on mission than any other, and Jaelle didn't want to temp fate anymore than she had to. She looked up from her holographic display and over the bridge god they were so young. For a few this was only there second mission away from the safety of Sol. Others were still wet behind the ears. She alone held the distinction and the record of experience. Even if most of that record was heavily hid underneath layers of black ink. She took a deep breath soon they were clear and the order was given and the Exeter went to warp. As the entire crew placed their collective lives in Ire's hands. 'My God what where they thinking.' (Reply any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Bridge- CONN - CFO- Lieutenant jg – Ire Williams - 0805) ~Okay Exeter this is it. Not remember let’s do this nice and slow. There is no need to go tearing off, okay we will do that later~ "Lt. Williams.” ~Okay Exeter here we go~ "Set course for Bajor. Quarter impulse until we clear mars orbit. Full impulse until we are at a safe distance for warp." His fingers moved purposely across the console imputing the coordinates and setting up the flight path. “Yes sir, Setting course to Bajor. Quarter Impulse until we clear mars orbit and then increase to full impulse.” "And Lieutenant, please do your best not to crash. There are 500 lives on board who are counting on you not to hit anything." He grinned to himself. ~Thanks Trip~ “Yes, sir I will try and not scratch the paint.” "Well then, let's get this show on the road." ~Ready Exter?~ "Alright Ire," "Rev it up and take us out." “Yes Sir, reving her up and taking us out.” ~Here we go~ His finger which had been poised over the impulse engine control icon pressed down and activated it. He felt the ship begin to move as he glanced over his readouts just in case, he had missed something. The Exeter began to pick up speed as the impulse engines pushed them through space. A navigation alert blinked on to his screen as Ravok at the console beside him sent him date on a rogue asteroid was going to miss their flight path by 613.4 kilometers. He moved the data into flight computer which would track it with out him having to take his concentration off his flight path. He watched as the distance to the outer marker spun down as he paused with his finger in the acceleration controls. ~and……………………now~ “Sir we have cleared the outer marker. Going to full impulse.” He slid his finger across the console as the Exeter powered up to full impulse. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters - Assistant Chief Flight Officer, Ensign Senior Grade Ronnie Winters - 0806) In theory Ronnie could have gone to one of the lounges for the launch, and spent the moment that the Exeter departed Mars for her mission with her crewmates. But she had a room that faced the outside with a spectacular view, so it made sense to just see it from her room and have a moment of quiet reflection. She looked at the picture she kept at her night stand. It was a picture of her and her grandmother. It was the last picture the two of them took together. Her grandmother died shortly after. She was 18, and was just about to leave home for the last time, to head out and make her life, build a better future for herself and others. She got to say goodbye to her grandmother that one last time, but she still missed her dearly. ~I miss you Gran, but I did it, I'm in Starfleet, I have a place on the Exeter. I have a home. I love you Gran, but you would be so proud. And Trip is a good officer, I think he will be a great captain.~ Ronnie never knew her parents, they both died in accident before she was even two. Her grandmother had been babysitting while they were out on a work trip. The ship they were on was destroyed. From that moment, her Gran raised her and took care of her. Of course her Gran may have been a tad overprotective of her little winter princess, home schooling her at the family homestead, and making sure that she had everything she need for a happy childhood. She was indebted to her Gran. She joined Starfleet for her Gran. Her Gran always told her, that one day, things will turn around, and Starfleet will surely go back to being who they were supposed to be. You want to be there for that, in those moments. "Veronica," she would say, "My dear Veronica, you are strong enough to build a better future for yourself and for others, trust in yourself." And so she did, and while her Grand never got a chance to see her achieve the dream of becoming an officer, and now leaving for Bajor on a brand new Starship, she had met many along the way to help fill that void. And she got lucky, she found a confidant and mentor in Admiral Dale Bracken, who took a chance on her and made Ronnie her assistant. She found a good friend in her Captain Trip, who she had worked with over the last year as his flight officer and assistant. He was charming and smart, and made her feel welcome from the start. Then there was the captain's wife who was a sweetheart. The first officer had also helped her with a bit of a health crisis when she was CMO of Mars and had become someone she could go to when she needed to talk. She found Ire and Greta hilarious, and Ravok had all the makings of a hero. She was glad to still be with them. For the orphan girl raised by her grandmother, who had lost her beloved Gran right as she was entering the academy. She had finally found her family. And that made her nervous. She had lost everyone else she had love in her life. Would this time be the same? (reply None) (posted by Will Banowsky) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0820) Keira looked at the request for movement from the helm that came through, after all it was Engineering’s job to produce the power. She was looking at the feed and the Skipper’s announcement simultaneously. It didn’t make sense, he was asking for cruising speed, which was warp 8.4, but the request came from helm for warp 8. ~That doesn’t make sense, do they want warp 8 or do they want our cruising speed which is 8.4?~ “Sir?” came the voice of her senior enlisted. “I see it too.” She said and thought quickly. “We’ll make enough for cruising speed, if they don’t take it we can shunt the power somewhere else.” “Aye.” Instantly the warp core jumped from standby to a steady cruising rhythm. She breathed a sigh of relief. There was a small amount of surprise from her Chief Engineer when it didn’t atomize into a billion pieces. ~Calm down. It’s a new engine, but we’ve been working with it for several months now.~ Keira settled into a comfortable routine. (Reply any in Engineering) (Posted by Todd) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< 2