USS Champlain Compile: 2007 March Compiled by Connie Francisco This month, the crew of the Champlain wrapped up some loose ends from her mission on Ivor Prime, and then sank their teeth deeper into a new one. The ship unexpectedly discovered a primitive, unidentified warp vessel with a distinctly Federation warp signature, in a part of space where no such advanced civilizations were known to be. Plans got underway to find out more about how this happened, and to prepare for a possible First Contact mission. Total Posts: 68 Summary of Posts: Mission 1: Worlds Once Lost Day 12, Stardate 2407.03.07 (USS Champlain – Counselor’s office – ACEO – Ensign Gabe Suvik-Bertorelli – 1103) (USS Champlain – Counselor's office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1104) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's office – ACEO – Ensign Gabriele Suvik-Bertorelli – 1106) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1108) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office - Security Chief Lt. Jono Janeway & Coroner MO Lt. Vladimir Goldmark - 1309) (USS Champlain - Sec Chiefs Office – Sec Chief Lt. Jono Janeway - 1400) (USS Champlain - Cargo Bay #723 – STS – Dr Laura Schell - 1402) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – STS – Dr Laura Schell - 1408) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Sec Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1410) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Starfleet Theoretical Sciences – Dr Laura Schell - 1412) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Security Chief – Lt. Jono Janeway - 1416) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Starfleet Theoretical Sciences – Dr Laura Schell - 1417) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Security Chief – Lt. Jono Janeway - 1420) Mission 2: The Hephaestus Principle Day -4, Stardate 2407.03.09 (USS Champlain - Turbolift - Security Chief Lt. Jono Janeway and ACMO Ensign (JG) Henna-star - 0800) Day 1, Stardate 2.2407.03.13 (USS Champlain - Science Lab 1 - ACSO Ensign Samantha Wilde Fiacie - 1300) (USS Champlain – turbolift – MO Ensign Tia Adani – 1315) (USS Champlain – Bridge – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1329) (USS Champlain - Bridge - Chief Tactical Officer - Lt JG T'Larah Sullivan -1330) (USS Champlain –Sickbay - ACMO, Ensign Henna-star – 1333) (USS Champlain - Bridge – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier -1335) (USS Champlain - Bridge - ACEO Ensign Suvik-Bertorelli - 1336) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Chief Tactical - Lieutenant JG T'Larah Sullivan - 1337) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Sec Chief Lt. Jono Janeway - 1338) (USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Bird – 1339) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Ops- Ensign Smith - 1340) (USS Champlain – Turbo Lift – ACEO Ensign Bird -1346) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Chief Tactical - Lieutenant JG T'Larah Sullivan - 1347) (USS Champlain – Ops office – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier -1350) (USS Champlain - COPS Office – ACSO Ens. Sam Fiacie - 1353) (USS Champlain - COPS Office – 3O Bree Frazier – 1400) (USS Champlain - Ops Office – ACMO Ensign Henna-star – 1402) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1402) (USS Champlain - COPS Office –  ACEO Ensign Bird – 1404) (USS Champlain - OPS Office – ACops Ensign Hawk – 1405) (USS Champlain - COPS Office – SC Lt. Jono Janeway – 1406) (USS Champlain - Bridge - Ops - Ensign Smith– 1407) (USS Champlain – Corridor – ACMO Ensign Henna-star - 1411) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier – 1413) (USS Champlain – Astrometrics – Science Officer – CPO Banda Ree – 1415) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1415) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier – 1416) (USS Champlain - Personal Quarters – CO – Captain Edward Wolfe - 1417) (USS Champlain – Ops Office - ACops Ensign Hawk - 1417) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1418) (USS Champlain - Bridge - ACSO, Ens. Sam Fiacie - 1419) (USS Champlain - Science Labs - CSO - Lieutenant d'Kla's'turr - 1420) (USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO – Ensign Gabriele Suvik-Bertorelli - 1420) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office - Security Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1421) (USS Champlain - Sec Chiefs Office - ACOPS, Ensign Hawk - 1422) (USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO – Ensign Paul Bird- 1422) (USS Champlain - Sickbay - CMO - Doctor Mor'rel - 1423) (USS Champlain - Sec Chiefs Office - Security Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1424) (USS Champlain - Security Office - ACOPS, Ensign Hawk - 1425) (USS Champlain - Holodeck 5 - FO - Lieutenant Commander Ulia Mason - 1427) (USS Champlain - Sickbay - CMO - Doctor Mor'rel - 1427) (USS Champlain - Sickbay – ACMO Ensign Henna-star - 1428) (USS Champlain - Security Office - Sec Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1428) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1429) (USS Champlain - Bridge – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier - 1430) (USS Champlain - Sickbay - CMO - Doctor Mor'rel - 1430) (USS Champlain - Bridge - CO - Captain Edward Wolfe - 1433) (USS Champlain - Bridge – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier  - 1435) (USS Champlain - Bridge - CO - Captain Edward Wolfe - 1442) (USS Champlain - Sickbay –  CEO - Lieutenant Rellie Delzar – 1444) (USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Bird - 1446) (USS Champlain - Sickbay –  CEO - Lieutenant Rellie Delzar – 1450) (USS Champlain - Science Labs - CSO - Lieutenant d'Kla's'turr - 1452) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 2043) [Compile Begins] Mission 1: Worlds Once Lost Day 12, Stardate 2407.03.07 (USS Champlain – Counselor’s office – ACEO – Ensign Gabe Suvik-Bertorelli – 1103)   “I guess Ivor Prime surprised us all, Gabe,” Olen said. “Why don’t we start with the mission itself? How do you think it went overall? How do you feel YOU performed?” He put the PADD to one side, and settled back in his chair to listen.   “Yes, Ivor Prime took its toll on all of us. Overall, I think I performed well but… I don’t know anyone who doesn’t get nervous when the Borg is mentioned. For me, it’s worse…” Gabriele tried to order his thoughts and thus speak more clearly to Olen but he couldn’t; his thoughts and emotions were jumbled, fired by an inner turmoil. He continued.   “Some years ago my father was serving aboard a starship and was ordered into battle against the Borg. His ship was one of the last in an armada to engage the Borg. My father is listed as a casualty of war but they never found his body. It is presumed that all of the crew perished when his ship was destroyed. They never found the wreckage of that ship and there was speculation that it had been captured by the Borg. So you see I don’t know whether my father is dead; he probably is but there is a chance that he is alive - as a drone. It’s that possibility, however small, that has stopped me mourning my father and dealing with his death. I haven’t been able to assimilate it.” He laughed bitterly at the irony of his choice of words. “So, every time there is mention of the Borg I convince myself that I will see my father. I want to see him desperately so I can say goodbye properly. I see him, sometimes, in nightmares. He tries to assimilate me. I always wake up as the assimilation tubules hit my neck.”   Tears spilled down Gabriele’s face and his face was flushed green. He breathed slowly and tried to compose himself. The last thing he wanted to do was blub in front of Olen!   “That’s why I was reluctant to go to the surface of Ivor Prime. Knowing what the Borg did all those years ago…”   “Okay,” said Rhinehart, nodding. “Now let’s talk about Lt Sullivan. Are you having problems working with her?”   T’Larah...” Gabriele thought long and hard about what he was going to say. He didn’t know if Olen would tell her what he said. “I get the impression she is dedicated to her work and is a very capable person. But…I don’t think she likes me.”   (Reply Olen) (Posted by Matt) (USS Champlain – Counselor's office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1104) Rhinehart watched with detached interest as Gabe poured out the tragic story of his father's assimilation, and the nightmares he suffered. Most of this was not news to Rhinehart. He had read the cold and clinical details in Gabe's personnel file, but to hear the story told like this put a whole new slant on things. He did not move or respond, fearful of breaking in upon Gabe's therapeutic outpouring. In a session like this, the patient was the most important person in the room. He felt that he and Gabe would be revisiting this topic again in the future, and he needed to establish himself as a person who could be trusted. “T’Larah...” said Gabriele, in response to his second question. “ I get the impression she is dedicated to her work and is a very capable person. But…I don’t think she likes me.” Rhinehart leaned forward a little, sensing Gabe's reticence. “Gabriele,” said Rhinehart, “it's important for you to know that anything you say in this room stays in this room. The counsellor-client privilege is sacrosanct. The only people I answer to on counseling matters are Lt Alosar and the captain himself. And the only conceivable way I would share details of our discussions with either of them is if I felt there was a serious risk to the crew, the mission, or the integrity of this vessel. And even then, I would divulge only such information as was necessary to avert a problem. Do you understand, Gabe?” (Reply Gabe) Rhinehart nodded. “So, tell me about Lt Sullivan,” he said. “What's the problem?” (Reply Gabe) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's office – ACEO – Ensign Gabriele Suvik-Bertorelli – 1106)   Gabriel relaxed a little, knowing that T'Larah would not learn of what he would say. Still, he thought before he uttered his first word. He didn't want to sound bitchy nor like a child who thinks he has been wronged.   "To be honest with you Counsellor, I think she disapproves of my emotions. What I mean is; she disapproves of me because I show my emotions."   (Reply Rhinehart)   "It started down on Ivor Prime. When we were on the planet and looking for ways to power the systems I suggested rigging our main phaser to deliver an energy beam. I also raised concerns that we might not get a beam from orbit to the cavern as were so far underground...”   (Reply Rhinehart)   Gabriele breathed heavily and shifted in his seat. "T'Larah was very...quick to tell me just how far our phaser emitters could deliver an energy beam. She said it in a typically un-emotional way, but there was lot aggression beneath the cool exterior. At least...I think there was."   (Reply Rhinehart)   "After that, I got the impression she was doing her best to be 'off-ish' with me. I know; Vulcans can generally be like that but... Anyway, it wound me up and I decided to play a bit of a joke and it all got out of hand and now I am looking at either a court martial or meditation and training sessions with T'Larah."   Gabe said the last sentence in one rushed breath. He didn't expect giving an account of the incident would have such an effect on him. He breathed deeply, tried to settle himself, and waited for the Counsellor's wisdom.   (Reply Rhinehart) (Posted by Matt) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1108) Rhinehart uncrossed his legs again and sat back in the chair, opening his posture, as Gabe relaxed and began to speak. He couldn't allow his curiosity at this strange puzzle of a Vulcan override his professionalism. ~Remember your body language,~ he admonished, lightly. “To be honest with you Counsellor, I think she disapproves of my emotions,” said Gabe. “What I mean is; she disapproves of me because I show my emotions." Rhinehart nodded, a small crease of concentration angling his brows. “Yes... yes, you certainly do,” he murmured. "It started down on Ivor Prime. When we were on the planet and looking for ways to power the systems I suggested rigging our main phaser to deliver an energy beam. I also raised concerns that we might not get a beam from orbit to the cavern as were so far underground........" “Go on.” Gabriele breathed heavily and shifted in his seat. "T'Larah was very...quick to tell me just how far our phaser emitters could deliver an energy beam. She said it in a typically un-emotional way, but there was lot aggression beneath the cool exterior. At least...I think there was." “Hmm.” Rhinehart thought carefully about that as Gabe finished his account, comparing it to his fairly limited contact with Lt Sullivan. She had initially struck him as a slightly severe, austere figure. All-business, no-nonsense, in way that was extreme. Despite himself, his hand stole to his beard, stroking the longer hairs under his lower lip. "After that,” Gabe continued, “I got the impression she was doing her best to be 'off-ish' with me. I know; Vulcans can generally be like that but... Anyway, it wound me up and I decided to play a bit of a joke and it all got out of hand and now I am looking at either a court martial or meditation and training sessions with T'Larah." “I see,” said Rhinehart. “Well, I think it should be perfectly obvious which of those two options is preferable, don't you?” (Reply Gabe) “Quite. Gabriele, your notes actually tell me very little about you, but from what I can gather, your Vulcan side is quite the mystery to you, isn't it? Your heritage places certain... expectations upon you, that your more dominant, human, side is not yet equipped to meet. Would that be fair to say? Do you think T'Larah is aware of that?” (Reply Gabe) “Please don't repeat this, but in my non-professional opinion, T'Larah is walking a tightrope between two extremes herself. Her duties as a tactical officer often call upon her to be... aggressive... if not outright violent, at times. It's easy to see how that might conflict with the strict adherence to rationality and 'logic' that Vulcans generally demand of themselves. She's also half-human herself, which can only increase the pressure she feels to keep her emotions in check, given her duties. To put it colloquially, I tend to think she is 'wound a little tightly'. I think what you encountered was perhaps the sharper side of T'Larah's personality, as a result of your joke, which was, you must admit, perhaps ill-timed. But the two of you are probably far more similar than you realise.” (Reply Gabe) “I doubt very much that T'Larah dislikes you, Gabe. She barely knows you, after all. But I doubt she has ever encountered another Vulcan quite like you. I know I haven't. It's probably less that she disapproves of you, and more that she doesn't know quite what to make of you. There's a gap to be bridged there. Perhaps you should look upon these meditation and training sessions as an opportunity to do just that, and in the process, learn a little about what being 'Vulcan' really means?” (Reply Gabe) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief’s Office - Security Chief Lt. Jono Janeway & Coroner MO Lt. Vladimir Goldmark - 1309) Janeway had called Vlad after receiving the coroner’s report on the skeleton … ~, if that’s what you could call it after thirty-four years… ~ he had beamed up to the Champlain yesterday during the end of the mission. He had almost forgotten about the act until about fifteen minutes ago when he had read the report.   ‘Accidental death is unlikely, as burn points indicate forcible insertion of live electrical conduits.’ That was one line within the report; it had outlined the MO’s opinions about the facts he had discovered while studying the skeleton. It still amazed Jono how a skeleton that old could be looked at and pulled apart to figure out how the person died, and who they were... fascinating. Jono lifted his head as he heard the door chime ring.   “Come” he said, fully expecting the coroner to walk into the room.   “Hello, Sir. You called?” The coroner said as he walked in. Jono moved forward to shake his hand, but hesitated slightly before actually shaking it.   Vlad returned the gesture, albeit somewhat reluctantly on his part as well. Shaking hands with people he knew little about was not something Vlad liked to do… to much chance of sensing something unexpected and ugly. Besides, full-blooded humans were often startled by how cold his hands were… but Janeway did not seem to notice. In fact, he seemed so lost in thought that he barely realized that he had almost refused to shake the man’s hand.   “That I did, Lt.,” Janeway said as he pointed to the seat opposite his desk as he took the seat behind it. “So... I got your report. Could you outline the main facts for me? I want to make sure I have everything clearly pointed out in my head before continuing.” Jono said leaning back slightly and putting his hands together.   Vlad felt his ridged eyebrow shoot up on its own. “I apologize, Mr. Janeway, if my report was unclear. I thought I had already outlined the pertinent facts adequately…” but then, he leaned forward slightly. “However, I do have my own… ways of discovering the truth about criminal acts. I am blessed with limited, but very accurate psychometry. Nothing that is admissible in a court of law, but… it does aid me in figuring out where to look, which facts are the most pertinent. I know who murdered that man… but until it can be proven in a more standard manner, that knowledge MUST remain in this room.” With that, Vlad sat back, and waited for the security chief to indicate that he understood… or not.   Jono listened to the coroner; he kept a perfectly straight face as the MO spoke. He had learned in the past to keep a straight face when dealing with people. Of course, the coroner wasn’t a suspect in any crime; in fact, he seemed to be giving Jono another job. Janeway nodded to show he understood Vlad and then said, “You have my promise to keep what you tell me to myself. Unless the Captain needs to be informed of your information, In that case I will make sure to be able back-up you’re… theories… with actual evidence.”   “Mr. Janeway… the murderer was a woman. Her name was Dr. Schell. I believe that if you examine the personnel records in the archives of that lab on Ivor Prime, you will discover that she was in with the victim at the time of his death. And, if she is among those colonists who were, as I understand, rescued from the planet, and are on board at this time, may I remind you that no statute of limitations applies to the crime of murder.” With that, Vlad sat back. “I will leave the rest of the investigation up to you, unless you request further services from me. And if you wish that should I speak to the Captain, I would be happy to do so. Will that be all, Sir?”   Jono had lost his composure behind for a second when Dr. Schell’s name was mentioned. He opened his mouth a little but quickly closed it and continued listening to the Coroner. He nodded at the end.   “That will be all. If I need anything else I’ll call,” Jono said, quickly standing and seeing Vlad to the door. As Vlad left to return to his own duties, he wondered what would come of the upcoming investigation… and if any of it would reach him in his quiet little world of a starship’s morgue.   (Reply any, none) (Posted by Jono and Connie) (USS Champlain - Sec Chiefs Office – Sec Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1400)   As Vlad had suggested Jono had pulled up all the archived files that Science had brought up from Ivor Prime and as Vlad said, Schell was in the room the moment the doctor had died.   He had tidied anything on his desk to do with the investigation and then quickly tapped his comm. badge, "Lt. Janeway to Civilian Dr. Schell, Come in." He said into the open comm. link.   (Reply Schell)   "Dr, Would you be so kind in coming to me office. ASAP. I have a few questions I would like to run past you." He said politely and kindly.   (Reply Schell) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Cargo Bay #723 – STS – Dr Laura Schell - 1402) Dr Schell had slept the sleep of the dead the moment her head hit the pillow, her body curled around Hannah's small frame. Against her better judgment, she had finally agreed to be quartered aboard the Starfleet vessel. The 50-or-so colonists had been made acceptably comfortable in one of the ship's vast cargo holds. Homely it wasn't, but it would serve a purpose, for the time being. If her perception of the Federation's betrayal had made her ambivalent about accompanying the Starfleet officers back to their vessel, the news that she and the other colonists would be living aboard the ship for the foreseeable future left her furious. Her place was back on Ivor Prime, working to make the colony habitable, and getting their people back, not gallivanting about the galaxy. She had awoken an hour or two previous, disorientated, and disheveled, and found her anger and bitterness had not subsided one iota. She recalled what she had said the day before – about taking overall control of the colony and seceding from the Federation. Perhaps the officers had thought it was high emotion talking. More fool them. She had been deadly, deadly serious. At the moment, she seemed to be the de facto leader. If she was to do it, she had decided, now was the time. So now, she sat at a makeshift table, tapping notes into a PADD. She was going to make an independent society out of that backwater colony if it was the last thing she did. Her people, for so she regarded them, would never be abandoned at the whim of faceless bureaucracy again. She absently reached under the desk, her fingers gently running through Hannah's soft blonde hair. The child sat beneath the table, playing silently with her doll, Ely. She thought idly of Maximilien and Geoffrey, still trapped in the void. This, she did for them, as much as for the other colonists. =^=Lt. Janeway to Civilian Dr. Schell, Come in. =^= ~Civilian? ~ she thought irritably, her concentration shattered. ~At least he remembered the 'doctor' this time. ~ She tapped the civilian communicator she had been issued. “Yes, lieutenant, what is it?” =^=Dr, would you be so kind in coming to my office? ASAP. I have a few questions I would like to run past you. =^= She frowned. In truth, she'd been anticipating a call from one of these yes-men since she'd beamed aboard. As the person who'd initiated the disappearance on Ivor Prime, she would likely need to be thoroughly debriefed... she'd just imagined that the call would come from the captain, or at least his first officer... “Of course, lieutenant,” she replied warily. “I'll be right there.” (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – STS – Dr Laura Schell - 1405) She hit the door chime, more out of courtesy than anything else, not bothering to wait for a reply before walking through the door. In one arm, she carried Hannah. She wasn't sure if Janeway would take a dim view of this; on the other hand, she didn't much care. The hounds of hell themselves couldn't have separated her from her daughter now, not after everything they had just been through. She took a seat without being asked. “Well, lieutenant, what can I do for you?” she asked, curtly. (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – STS – Dr Laura Schell - 1408) "Yes," replied Janeway, "I would like to discuss your involvement in operating the machine planet-side. A discussion probably best suited for... adult ears only," he said, smiling and looking at Hannah. "Is there something I can get you, young lady?" “Juice!” Hannah cried with enthusiasm, not shifting her gaze from the face of her doll, whose hair she continued to brush. Schell's eyes had narrowed shrewdly at Janeway's words, and her mind raced ahead too fast too admonish her daughter for her lack of manners. What was this all about? “It's this or nothing, I'm afraid, Lieutenant,” she replied after a moment or two. “After everything I've been through, you can hardly blame me for keeping my daughter where I can see her.” She hefted the child against her flank, as if to punctuate the point. (Reply Janeway) “Perhaps you can get some cartoons or something up on that screen of yours, Lieutenant,” said Schell, nodding towards the terminal on Janeway's cluttered desk. “I'm sure she'd be far more interested in those than anything /you/ have to say.” (Reply Janeway) “And if you could get to the point sometime today, Lieutenant, I'd appreciate it. I have fifty-odd dislocated and homeless people to look out for, you know.” (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Sec Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1410)   After the child cried out for 'juice' Janeway looked to Schell, “It's this or nothing, I'm afraid, Lieutenant, After everything I've been through, you can hardly blame me for keeping my daughter where I can see her.” She hefted the child against her flank.   Janeway nodded, "Maybe not." Janeway said, He stood up and walked to the replicator. He typed in an order or juice and a second later a carton of juice appeared. He picked it up and passed it to the child. As he sat down Schell spoke again.   “Perhaps you can get some cartoons or something up on that screen of yours, Lieutenant,” said Schell, nodding towards the terminal on Janeway's desk. “I'm sure she'd be far more interested in those than anything /you/ have to say.”   Jono nodded, "Computer... Err." He looked back at the child. "Any particular cartoon?" He asked. He was sure the Champlain's directory would have something on any cartoon the child could pick.   (Reply Hannah)   After setting the channel for Hannah, Janeway looked back to Schell. “And if you could get to the point sometime today, Lieutenant, I'd appreciate it. I have fifty-odd dislocated and homeless people to look out for, you know.”   Janeway nodded, "Of course." He said quite officially. "I suppose we can start there. Your fifty-odd dislocated people. I look through a list of those survivors we have on the Champlain and I am glad of it. However, there is one man, which concerns me. Dr..." Janeway quickly looked down at the PADD the Champlain’s coroner had given him "...Patris, He WAS head of the deactivated classified Starfleet research project on Ivor Prime. I would assume you knew him?"   (Reply Schell)   "Would it come to a shock to you if I told you he was dead?" Janeway asked quickly.   (Reply Schell) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Starfleet Theoretical Sciences – Dr Laura Schell - 1412) "Computer... Err," said Janeway, looking momentarily lost. He looked back at the child. "Any particular cartoon?" “D'zill the Denebian Detective!” the child shouted. Schell rolled her eyes. The cartoon had been out of production for at least 150 standard years, but its CONSTANT, interminable re-runs had captured little Hannah's imagination. As a consequence, Schell had been forced to endure each and every episode at least a dozen times. She resisted the urge to groan, and almost caught herself wishing for a return to the quiet of the void, as that dreaded theme tune piped its jaunty way out of the terminal speakers. With the youngster finally settled to Janeway's satisfaction, he came around to the point. “I look through a list of those survivors we have on the Champlain and am glad of it,” said the lieutenant. “However there is one man which concerns me. Dr..." Janeway quickly glanced down at a PADD. The pieces instantly fell into place. She knew precisely where this was going. "...Patris, He WAS head of the deactivated classified Starfleet research project on Ivor Prime. I would assume you knew him?" “ Of course,” she replied coolly. “He was my immediate superior, we worked together very closely.” "Would it come as a shock to you if I told you he was dead?" Janeway asked quickly. Was he trying to catch her off-guard? A cartoon slide whistle punctuated the chilly silence in the office. The Denebian super-sleuth was apparently on the case. Hannah's absorbed laughter pealed out, providing an unlikely soundtrack to the interrogation. “After all that's happened... no, not really,” Schell replied. “I'd be curious to know how you could be sure of that, though. He wasn't listed among the surviving colonists you managed to bring back. As far as I know, he's still floating around out there...” (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Security Chief – Lt. Jono Janeway - 1416)   As the short pause lengthened, the only thing to be heard was the young girls cartoon, Jono carefully studied the doctor... it was obvious to him she must have been trying to sort out what had happened in her head.   Finally, Schell managed a reply, which Janeway assumed she had been working on for a few seconds. “After all that's happened... no, not really,” Schell replied. “I'd be curious to know how you could be sure of that, though. He wasn't listed among the surviving colonists you managed to bring back. As far as I know, he's still floating around out there...”   Jono nodded and took note of the Doctor's response. He looked up, "I assumed you wouldn’t be too surprised." Jono said to Schell, "And as far as his name being listed in the survivors, that’s because we haven’t released a list of those colonists we found dead. At the moment it is just this one person so it’s not so much of a list as a name but..." Jono realized he was rambling a little and stopped himself. "The point is we have the remains of male being and our on-board coroner has identified him Dr. Patris. Since finding out that the skeleton was the exact age as the artifact had been running. Mr. Goldmark also explained to me the manor in the way Patris died. I don’t want to horrify you with the details... as I assume you already know them. Sensor reports from that time period show that you were one of the only people in that room around the time Patris died or should I say was murdered?" Janeway said cutting the crap and getting to business. His voice changed and got more serious he leaned in slightly on and laid his arm on the desk.   (Reply Schell) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Starfleet Theoretical Sciences – Dr Laura Schell - ) "I assumed you wouldn't be too surprised." said Janeway, "and as far as his name being listed in the survivors, that's because we haven't released a list of those colonists we found dead. At the moment it is just this one person so it’s not so much of a list as a name but..." Schell's eyes cut to the screen. D'zill the Denebian hero was comically hunched over a tricorderesque device, using it like a magnifying glass to track a set of outsize footprints across the cartoonish landscape. Hannah was engrossed, but to Schell, the words D'zill spoke were inaudible. Funny how the simplest of things – a dimly remembered – or suppressed – name, the barest hint of a scent, a half-heard sound – could hurl one back in time, months, years... sometimes decades. Patris. Of the two lead scientists, he'd always been the driven one. Not that she hadn't put in her fair share of overtime on the Iconian artifact, but Patris... he'd been obsessed. Unlocking the secrets of that relic had been everything to him, and his intensity had only increased as Starfleet's arbitrary funding deadline bore down on them. But even in their desperation, he had never allowed his composure, his detachment, his scientific objectivity, to slip. When she met him, Schell had been immediately in awe of him. Her career had not lacked for distinction, but Patris moved in circles, which, though rarefied, were in orbit by comparison. She had respected his dispassionate air, which even for a Vulcan, had been icy. Not so the dozen or so other scientists in the Ivor Prime facility. She had never participated, but had always secretly enjoyed, the continual pranks played upon him by the interns and assistants that buzzed around the lab complex in an ever-shifting sea of faces. And Patris had never once dignified any them with even the smallest of responses, either amused or angry. Over the months, the jokes, bit by bit, took on the timbre of a challenge for the staff. Every whoopee cushion, every 'kick me' sign, every salted cup of coffee, Patris had taken all of them in his stride. As Janeway talked about the lists of colonists' names, it struck her as being a shame that, in spite of all of Patris' achievements, what she really remembered most of him was the way the spark in his dark Vulcan eyes had died as she held the electrical conduits against the skin of his arm. There'd been a glare of furious accusation in his contorted grimace as the current finally overcame his strong heart, and in the cold necessity of self-preservation, she remembered thinking to herself... ~Someone finally got a rise out of you. ~ There hadn't been time for her to feel ashamed of herself before throwing the switch, all fail-safes disabled, to activate the machinery hooked into the artifact. And during the 35 years she'd spent in the ageless, timeless void, only her own mind for company, she'd learned well to suppress the fact of what she'd done, until by and by, it was almost as if Patris had never existed, so thoroughly had she disowned the event. It was as if it simply hadn't happened. Since her return to corporeal being, she'd done all she could to avoid thinking about it, lest it somehow become real to her again, just as she had. "The point is,” said Janeway, startling her back to the present moment, her eyes still locked on the screen, “we have the remains of a male being and our on-board coroner has identified him Dr. Patris. Since finding out that the skeleton was the exact age as the artifact had been running. Mr. Goldmark also explained to me the manor in the way Patris died. I don’t want to horrify you with the details... as I assume you already know them. Sensor reports from that time period show that you were one of the only people in that room around the time Patris died or should I say was murdered?" She looked back at Janeway, leaning towards her, arm on the desk. She blinked, concentrating on keeping eye contact with the man. It was harder than it looked. Her mouth did not move. By her side, tucked under Hannah's body, out of Janeway's sight, her fingers curled into a fist. She took care to keep the memories - the sizzling crackle, the gruesome rigidity in Patris' features, the burning stench, all of them – at bay. Not denying them, simply acknowledging and then dismissing them, as if they had happened not to her, but to someone else. “Am I to understand,” she said evenly, “that you are accusing me of Dr Patris' killing, lieutenant?” A dramatic musical sting honked from the terminal as the cartoon Denebian reached the end of the line of footprints. The coolness with which she was now trying to talk her way out of answering for a murder alarmed her, in a detached sort of way, almost as much as did her taking of Patris' life itself. She looked down at her daughter's face, rapt in the cartoon, and knew again why she lied, and why she had killed. She had been needed then. She was needed now. (Reply Janeway) “Murder is a very strong and emotionally-charged word, lieutenant,” said Dr Schell, matter-of-factly, “so I should like very much to see what evidence you have before you accuse me of something so vile. And perhaps you ought to arrest me, while you're at it. That way I can get a legal representative in the room while you go about slandering me. Assuming, of course, that that right hasn't disappeared in the past 35 years...?” (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office – Security Chief – Lt. Jono Janeway - 1420)   Schell concentrated on Janeway, she kept eye contact and kept un-naturally calm and didn’t seem to flinch too much. As words slowly came to the woman’s mouth it was obvious she had thought about what she was saying at least a little bit.   “Am I to understand,” she said evenly, “that you are accusing me of Dr Patris' killing, lieutenant?” A dramatic musical sting honked from the terminal. Jono quickly suppressed a smile ~She catches on quick~ He thought to himself as the cartoon continued and Hannah didn’t seem to be listening to them at all. Janeway watched as Schell looked down at her daughter... Whatever the woman was thinking she seemed to be enlightened or calmed by the look of her daughter.   "You can understand what you wish, Doctor? I merely want the facts." Janeway said sitting back in his chair and making himself look relaxed.   “Murder is a very strong and emotionally-charged word, lieutenant,” said Dr Schell, matter-of-factly, “so I should like very much to see what evidence you have before you accuse me of something so vile. And perhaps you ought to arrest me, while you're at it. That way I can get a legal representative in the room while you go about slandering me. Assuming, of course, that that right hasn't disappeared in the past 35 years...?” Schell finished.   "Now calm down Doctor." Janeway said just as matter-of-factly as she had replied to him. "The fact in it's self that you believe I have accused you of murdering Dr. Patris, presents me in an unexpected position. I now have reason to feel you are keeping information back." Jono shifted in his seat, "I have no reason to arrest you. I assumed you would be willing to co-operate with me. If not I will take measures to get the information I need, Doctor. Believe me. Now I have sensor details locating you at the scene of the... in the same location as Patris when he was killed. I also know how Patris died, the only thing I need to know from you is how it happened. Will you tell me or will you keep it too yourself and force me to take action?" Jono said, his tone had heightened slightly and he his pulse was racing, he had never been in the situation he was in at the moment. ~Suppose there’s a first for everything, On a ship this size, I'm sure it wont be the last either~   (Reply Schell) (Posted by Jono) Mission 2: The Hephaestus Principle Day -4, Stardate 2407.03.09 (USS Champlain - Turbolift - Security Chief Lt. Jono Janeway and ACMO Ensign (JG) Henna-star - 0800) After Henna had reported to the Captain, Janeway had volunteered himself to show the Ensign around a little. They had made their way to the nearest Turbolift and as the doors closed Jono found himself wondering why he always volunteered himself for these jobs. It wasn’t like he ever enjoyed them that much, showing an Ensign -fresh out of the academy around a ship the size of the USS Champlain. He sighed slightly and looked at the turbolift’s controls. ~Medical Bay~ He thought to himself as he glanced at the Orion woman, He had to admit to himself though that the Ensign definitely wasn’t... bad looking. ”Computer, Medical Bay.” Jono said as he shuffled around a little. He turned to the Ensign, “I’m Jono, By the way. Only when needed should you call me Lt. Janeway. I much prefer Jono.” He said to the Orion. “I thought I’d show you to the Medical bay first. As it will be your primary station on the ship. I believe Dr. Mor’rel is off duty at the moment, but I’m sure we’ll be able to find some of the medical staff to introduce you too.” He said, trying to re-assure the ensign. He remembers his first time on a ship, the USS Nimitz. He was a little nervous... Although he was being shown around by a rather formidable Lt. Dru Tagon - a Brikar. Henna gasped as she saw inside. Clearly very interested in the objects around her, Henna began walking around the medical bay. Mesmerized with the technology around her, she felt out a sigh. She never once thought that she would actually be standing where she was today. Walking over to the bio-beds she out stretched her arm and with her hand touched the bed just to make sure that it actually was there. None of this seemed real to her. After looking at all the gadgets around her, familiarizing herself with the technology she would be working with, she remembered that she was in the presence of the Lieutenant. She quickly got herself together and walked back over to him. “Sorry” she said to him “I was just caught up in the moment, I can’t actually believe I’m actually standing here but I suppose your used to Ensigns’ being excited with the whole environment that we have around us now.” Janeway watched slightly be-mused by Henna-stars actions as she walked into the sickbay, He himself caught up In the moment of watching her glee-full face wonder around sickbay touching things. Once she returned to him he replied, “Yes, I suppose I am.” He said nodding, “But only because I was only an ensign myself a couple of months ago.” As Jono watched, a Doctor quickly approached them and Janeway quickly noted it as Dr. Deanno Lorn, another recent addition to the Champlain’s crew roster. “Can I help you?” She asked as she approached the two. Jono nodded slightly, “Doctor, This is Henna-star. She is the new ACMO on the Champlain. She’s just getting settled in.” Lorn nodded slightly in recognition of Henna, “Nice to meet you. I suppose I should get back on with my duties then, If you don’t require anything else?” She said kindly. ”No. We’re off to the science labs now. Quick tour of the ship before we head off to Ten Forward for a welcome drink. That is if you are up for it, Ensign?” Janeway asked Henna quickly. ”Definitely I would like to meet other Comrades on this ship. Not that your company isn’t welcome.” She added quickly. They both turned and walked out the open door together. While working down the corridor quickly behind Janeway, she was surprised at how big the ship really was. Feeling very tired from the days’ traveling she tried to keep up with him but felt like she was dragging behind. Obviously sensing that his speed was too quick, he seemed to slow slightly. Suddenly Janeway slowed down to a stop and Henna, who was looking around at the surrounding area, nearly walked into him but just stopped in time. Together they walked into the nearest Turbolift. Henna looked around as if to ask what we are waiting for. To be helpful she said “Computer, deck 4 please” She looked down at the floor so that Janeway could don’t catch her eye. She really didn’t want to look like a sot on her first day. Janeway smiled, Slightly impressed at the Ensigns knowledge of the ship… already. He hadn’t even memorized all the decks on his first day. ~ Intentive, ~ Jono thought to himself. As the Turbolift doors opened up onto Deck 4. He walked out and looked around, Looking for the nearest lab he quickly wondered in to Lab 1 with the Ensign in tow. As both of them entered, Janeway himself was a little inspired by the size of the scientific lab. He was sure not all the labs could have been built the same size; Another thing that surprised him was the fact that it was relatively quiet. He spotted a Dr. Fiacie in the middle of the lab and since he didn’t know any of the other scientists that were in the lab, He nodded in Fiacie’s direction for Henna’s sake so she knew where he was heading. “Ahh. Dr. Fiacie. How are you this morning?” He said loudly as he approached the Scientist. Fiacie looked up, quite surprised to have visitors. It was Janeway and an Ensign she had never seen before, “Lt. Good day to you.” She said with a slight sigh. She was hoping on getting an early start on her ‘to do’ list. “And... I’m sorry I don’t know your name.” She said to Henna. “Oh, I’m Henna-star the new ACMO” She answered. She looked at the ensign and looked at how tired she seemed ~obviously she had a lot to do~ she thought to herself. “We were going to go to Ten Forward to have a welcome drink. Is there any chance that you would like to join us?” “Well nice to meet you, Erma. Ok. Why Not, I’ll come with you. As long as you don’t make me drink or eat too much,” she said, picking up on the obvious fact that the new ensign was a little nervous around Janeway. ~Not surprised~ She found herself thinking. Jono stood quite surprised at Henna asking Fiacie to come to ten forward with them and even more surprised that the scientist had said yes. Fiacie had always seemed the very… work devoted type... The three of them walked out of Lab 1 and moved into the adjacent Turbolift. “Computer, deck 10 please.” The turbolift went up and came to a stop. All of them walked out of the lift and walked down the corridor lead by Fiacie, then Janeway and the Henna. She followed them into what she believed had to be Ten Forward. Inside there were plenty of species all in same uniform just different colors. She walked over to where Fiacie and Janeway were sitting. She sat down and got comfortable. (Reply none) (Posted by Jono Bradley & Becky Thomas) Day 1, Stardate 2.2407.03.13 (USS Champlain - Science Lab 1 - ACSO Ensign Samantha Wilde Fiacie - 1300)   After the last catastrophe of an away mission, Sam had kept a relatively low profile. Keeping the science department in check and continuing on with her work and also some of her more personal thesis that she had been working on for years. She was sat down awaiting the computers high definition scan results of the neighboring systems, She had tuned the scanners herself to scan for the anomalies she was looking for.   [Scan results ready] The computer chirped out.   ~At last~ Fiacie thought to herself, “Transfer them to the console I am currently logged into” She said to the computer as she stood up to view the console.   [Transfer complete]   Sam quickly opened the necessary files and began scouring the sensor data. She quickly sifted over the material she didn’t need, Un-necessary scan logs such as planetary movements, asteroid belt formations etc... until she stopped, suddenly confused at a small piece of data. ~Warp 1? ~ She re-checked the data; It seemed as the scan had taken place a vessel had initiated a rudimentary warp engine, Only for several minutes. She looked through the data concerning the ship, ~That CANT be~ She thought, ~Starfleet? No! ~   Her fingers quickly ran over the panel. Surely, it couldn’t be. It was predicted basically impossible for two different races to formulate the same warp signature... in fact it was meant to be impossible for them to be rather similar... Never mind identical.   =^=Senior bridge staff, please take your stations. =^= Came through the comm. link.   ~Yeah, yeah. Maybe later. ~ was all Sam thought as she poured over the data. She quickly initiated another scan, If she was going to take this data to the command line she needed more evidence and she needed more sensor data. A few minutes later the computer brought back as much detailed information it could on the ship and its inhabitants. They weren’t close enough to get a brilliant look but they were definitely close enough to get a sneak preview. ~Humanoids... Vessel created of... wait, different types of alloys and metals. Lucky enough that none of them deflected the scan~ She pondered on a first contact situation and then through that idea out of the window. It couldn’t be. They could NOT have created the exact same warp signature as 23rd century Starfleet ships.   She sat back slightly astounded and wondered why the bridge crew was called to the bridge. She shook her head, Whatever it was. This was bigger. No doubt about it.    (Reply none yet) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain – turbolift – MO Ensign Tia Adani – 1315)   Tia was about to take the turbolift toward a quick late lunch when a tall Ensign in blue rushed toward her, calling to her to wait for him. He looked a little haggard and harassed, despite his pleasant smile... and something about him did not feel quite right to Tia. He was familiar… he had been on the away team that had picked her up a little over a week or so from DS5… but she had not seen him since, and did not even remember his name. However, she waited, and nodded a smiling greeting at the young officer.   When he had entered the turbolift, Tia noticed that behind his calm exterior, the man was beginning to overstress. ~ What’s gotten into him? ~ Tia decided the best way to find out was the most direct.   “Ensign,” she began, “I get the sense you aren’t feeling well. I’m a Betazoid, and also a doctor. May I ask what’s bothering you?”   The man seemed about to answer, mumbling something about “Senior staff… Bridge…” when suddenly he froze in place, staring blankly. A strange, lopsided grimace appeared on his face… then his eyes rolled back in his head as he fell like a pine tree to a logger’s laser.   Tia went down with him, cushioning his fall, and calling out to the turbolift to re-route them to Sickbay as she did so. She pulled her tricorder with one hand and began scanning as she tapped her com badge with the other.   “Sickbay, Adani here. Medical emergency, turbolift 6. Meet me with a crash cart, stat.”   Tia’s tricorder confirmed what her experience and her senses told her. ~ Stroke… this guy won’t be attending any staff meetings today… ~ She pulled back his eyelid and ran an ID scan. “Ensign LaQua, you picked the right person to join you on this little trip”, she mumbled to him as she began to administer preliminary first aid to the best of her ability with what equipment she had available. All the turbolifts carried at least some kind of first aid kit… but Mr. LaQua here would be out of action for some time, regardless.   In moments, the turbolift doors opened, and the crash cart she had requested was already within a few feet. She and the other medics secured the stricken man, and she rushed off with them to see to his treatment. Wherever he had been headed, even to the bridge, whoever had called him there would have to wait a while to find out why he had not attended the party to which he had been invited…   (Reply none) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Bridge - Chief Tactical Officer - Lt JG T’Larah Sullivan -1330)   “...be included in the security detail. I think he would be ideal for the role. If Lt Sullivan is in agreement, of course.”   “I would wait until we get the preliminary biological scans back, before we assume who is going on the mission. If the race in question is say, one meter in height, it would not be logical to take a two meter tall Klingon, may make us intimidating enough that they react with fear and a ‘shoot first ask questions later’, to use the Terran vernacular, mentality. Not to mention that it may make him an obviously poor choice for the covert mission for those reasons. I don’t think I need to remind everyone that first contact situations are at best tense situations and the utmost care should be given, but providing that he is eligible mass wise, I have no qualms against it.” she said matter-of-factly from her post.   (Reply any) ”Mr. Sullivan, please keep a close eye on that ship… see if you can find out if it has any weapons, and what kind. If you can extrapolate from that, and from any other date, what kind of weaponry might exist on the planet’s surface, let me know… and watch for any incoming unfriendlies, while you’re at it,” the 3rd Officer said with a grin.    “Aye sir, I’ll get right on it, she said calmly. She tapped the controls in front of her using the long-range sensors to get a better idea of what was going on. Unfortunately, if it was a Romulan plot like she had suggested then their long-range sensors would alert the would-be aggressors. If it were a fledgling world like what it seemed, then the distance and dissipation of the sensors would conceal their presence, for a time. Her first priority was finding a suitable hiding place. She found it in an asteroid belt out past the fifth planet. She knew from her mother’s work that it could be remains of a smaller planet ripped apart by this star’s gravitational, pull, or what was left of two planets colliding. It was difficult to be sure with tactical sensor algorithms. It would be an interesting dilemma for the Professor to figure out.    “Sir, recommend an approach from the far side of the system, using the asteroid belt out past the fifth planet as cover. It should keep us concealed from a fledgling world’s line of site sensing capabilities at appropriate speeds, for approximately three days, longer with some creative flying.”   (Reply Frazier)   She kept the ‘eyes’ of the ship searching for anything that may clue of what lies in the system, in orbit around the planet, and on the planet below. It would take sometime for her to get enough information to make a report. She continued the appropriate scans, leaving some of the scanners for the Professor and his team, as they would need to know what was going on down there but for different reasons.   (Reply any, None) (Posted by Todd) (USS Champlain –Sickbay - ACMO, Ensign Henna-star – 1333)   Henna was walking around sickbay, looking for something to do. The noise of technology clicking and beeping was the only sound that could be heard. Still trying to familiarize with her surroundings, she walked some more checking all the equipment around her and making sure she had placed everything in its correct places. She’d always been a neat freak, not that that was a bad thing though, it just meant that everything was where she could find it     ~I need something exciting to happen. I’ve been here four days and I haven’t met anyone. Well apart from Lt. Janeway but I think that was just because he felt that he had to be nice to me, because I’m a new here. It’s going to be hard making friends here – especially because I am so shy~   Henna’s comm. badge began to chirp, startling her for the moment =^=Lieutenant Brianna Frazier to Ensigns Fiacie, Science, and Henna-Star, Medical. Please meet me in the Ops office immediately=^=   “I’ll be there right away Lt. Frazier” Henna reply.   ~Wonder what going on~ She thought to herself as she left the sickbay straight away.     (USS Champlain –Ops office - ACMO, Ensign Henna-star – 1349)     Henna arrived at the ops office to find the door open. She quickly slipped inside were she found several personnel already there. She looked around at the faces there around her but she didn’t recognize many of them. She got to a sit and sat down just as Lt. Frazier began to speak. Henna listened to all that the lieutenant had to say.      “Now. I realize that there may have been some… confusion when this phenomenon was first discovered and reported. But please bear in mind that this ship has only been in operation for well under a month. Despite our early successes, we… ALL of us… are still green.” As Bree paused, Henna could see a faint smile on her face. Henna blushed and looked at the ground hoping that no one would look at her.   Frazier began to talk to individual staff while Henna tried to regain confidence to look back at her! Just as she did look up again the lieutenant was looking straight at her.   “I don’t want to take more than five people, so that leaves me needing a doctor, an engineer, and a science officer. Mr. Henna-star, I would like you to accompany us.” Bree said to Henna. “Erm…. I am quite shocked to be asked to be quite honest but if you want me to go then I’m honored to go with you, Sir” Henna blushed again.   ~I must get over being shy; I keep embarrassing myself~ she told herself.   The meeting continued with Bree talking to other staff in the room. Henna shuffled in her seat trying to get comfortable. Then an image of a spidery object was shown to everyone in the room. Confusion spread around the room.   (Reply none) (Posted by Becky) (USS Champlain - Bridge – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier -1335)   Bree sensed that the confusion brought on by the sudden, withdrawn silence from Edward and Commander Mason was spreading throughout the bridge staff. Her concerns were alleviated somewhat, however, as the ever-astute T’Larah stayed on task. ~ Thank God… but something has to be done… now… ~   “Thank you, Mr. Sullivan,” Bree replied to T’Larah. “Keep us informed… and please check with Mr. Smith. He has been running scans, and may have found something you need to see.” Bree had been watching him work for the last few minutes out of the corner of her eye, and she had sensed his wonder as he discovered something… he had crossed to d’Kla and Sullivan, apparently to share whatever it was with them, but they seemed to be totally ignoring him. She wondered very much what he had found… but the situation was getting out of hand… everyone was talking at once, and order was breaking down. ~I’ll have to check with him later… ~   She stood up, and, carefully avoiding glancing in the direction of her two commanding officers lest her confusion be misinterpreted by anyone as annoyance, she said, “OK, Mr. Hawk, Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, Mr. Suvik, please come with me. Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Smith, please forward any discoveries to the terminal in my office immediately. Security,” she said, glancing at Kohlass, “please remain at your posts. With that, she strode toward the turbolift.   (Reply Hawk, Janeway. Rhinehart, Suvik, Sullivan, Smith, any security personnel on Bridge)   As the turbolift doors hissed shut on the group, Bree tapped her com badge. She still didn’t know where Derrick had got to, but she needed a science officer who was more communicative than d’Kla seemed to be at the moment… and she needed a doctor.   “Lieutenant Brianna Frazier to Ensigns Fiacie, Science, and Henna-Star, Medical. Please meet me in the Ops office immediately.”   (Reply Fiacie, Henna-star)   Immediately after they replied, Bree continued. “Computer, locate Ensign Derrick LaQua. [Ensign LaQua is in Sick Bay], came the intoned reply. Bree’s eyes widened as a twinge of concern tugged at her senses, but she only glanced around at the officers gathered around her and said, “We’ll find out when we get to the office.”   When Bree reached her office with her little entourage, she asked them to make themselves comfortable. As they settled in and they waited for the other two officers to arrive, she glanced through the ship’s operational statistics. The last time she had checked them, they were fine… but now there was a history of intermittent failures. She frowned, then glanced up at Suvik.   “Gabe, I think we may have a problem in engineering. I may need you down there, but stay put for a minute…” She tapped her com badge.   “Lieutenant Frazier to Ensign Bird, Engineering. What’s going on down there?”   (Reply Bird)   After Bird had responded, Bree turned to Gabe. “Gabe, I think you’d better check out this situation out hands-on. I don’t think we’re going to get much help from the CEO… she’s not herself. Don’t forget about Chuss and T’Kusilaya, though… they can help. And send Bird up here as soon as you can, OK? I need an engineer, but engineering needs you. Keep me posted.”   (Reply Gabe)   ~ Next task. Ducks in an arcade, Bree… shoot ‘em down, one at a time, fast. ~ She glanced up at the waiting officers gathered as she called up the next report.   “Computer, Sick Bay, Third Officer Lieutenant Brianna Frazier. Status report, Science Officer Ensign Derrick LaQua.”   [Ensign LaQua is indisposed. He is being treated for possible stroke.]   That one stunned Bree a little. As the rest of the officers she had called assembled, she sat quietly, allowing each of her companions to assimilate this news in their own way.   (Reply any in the office) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Bridge - ACEO Ensign Suvik-Bertorelli - 1336)   Gabriele studied the readouts in the engineering section. His attention was interrupted when he heard Lieutenant Frazier’s voice.   “OK, Mr. Hawk, Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, Mr. Suvik, please come with me. Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Smith, please forward any discoveries to the terminal in my office immediately. Security,” she said, glancing at Kohlass, “please remain at your posts. With that, she strode toward the turbolift.   Gabriele didn’t reply directly. Instead, he pushed a button on the console. “Main Engineering transfer from the Bridge.” The display went dead as all his command functions were routed back to Deck 36. He strode into the turbolift.   As the turbolift doors hissed shut on the group, Gabriele was instantly aware of their collective smell. He never needed a nasal suppressant as he was only half Vulcan but he could smell the pungent collective odor his colleagues gave off.    Bree tapped her com badge.   “Lieutenant Brianna Frazier to Ensigns Fiacie, Science, and Henna-Star, Medical. Please meet me in the Ops office immediately.”   (Reply Fiacie, Henna-star)   Gabriele hadn’t had a chance to meet Fiacie or Henna-Star. He wondered what they were like.   Immediately after they replied, Bree continued. “Computer, locate Ensign Derrick LaQua. [Ensign LaQua is in Sick Bay], came the intoned reply. Bree’s eyes widened as a twinge of concern tugged at her senses, but she only glanced around at the officers gathered around her and said, “We’ll find out when we get to the office.”   Bree told the group to make themselves comfortable while she busied herself with some readouts. She frowned before glancing up at Gabriele.   “Gabe, I think we may have a problem in engineering. I may need you down there, but stay put for a minute…” Before he could reply she tapped her com badge leaving him opened mouthed and about to speak.   “Lieutenant Frazier to Ensign Bird, Engineering. What’s going on down there?”   (Reply Bird)   After Bird had responded, Bree turned to Gabe. “Gabe, I think you’d better check out this situation out hands-on. I don’t think we’re going to get much help from the CEO… she’s not herself. Don’t forget about Chuss and T’Kusilaya, though… they can help. And send Bird up here as soon as you can, OK? I need an engineer, but engineering needs you. Keep me posted.”   “I am aware of the problem, ma’am. With most of my team tying to repair the holodecks and the CEO unwell, we are pretty stretched. Things are not progressing as quickly as I had hoped. I’ll get down there now and have Bird sent up to you as soon as possible. I’ll see you get a timely report.”   Gabriele nodded to the group and walked out of the office, glad to be doing what he joined Starfleet to do: be a starship engineer.   Walking through the corridor Gabriele pressed his communicator. “Suvik-Bertorelli to Bird.”   (Reply Bird)   “I am on my way to engineering. Our 3rd Officer has requested your presence in her office. There is a meeting currently in progress.”   (Reply Bird)   “Can you wait for me to get there before you leave? I need a status report and there are a few things I want to discuss.”   (Reply Bird)   “Great. Oh, and Bird? You haven’t seen a fat Bolian child hanging around engineering have you?”   (Reply Bird)   “Don’t worry I’ll explain when I get down there. Suvik-Bertorelli, out.”   (Reply Bird) (Posted by Matt) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Chief Tactical - Lieutenant JG T’Larah Sullivan - 1337)   “Prof d’Kla’s’turr, Lieutenant Sullivan. Sorry to bother you both but would you mind taking a look at what I have found. From what I can gather it looks like a small space station similar to the ones we had on earth around the 21st century.”   “No need to bother the Professor, Ensign,” she said to the man at Ops. “He is quite busy with tasks of his own; certainly send a copy of your findings down to the Sciences department. For now I will field your questions, what have you found?”   The young man nodded. “It looks like it was made by boosting the modules up from the planet and fixing it into place on orbit. Maybe they built the ship in orbit rather then launching it from the planet like we did on earth.”   T’Larah tapped a few keys on her display. It revealed that what Smith had found was quite correct.   “My display confirms what you have found Ensign. I will limit my search to a tactical analysis, if you concentrate on finding out what other technologies are present. This station may give us a good representation of what technologies they have besides warp,” she said coolly.   (Reply Smith, any) (Posted by Todd) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Sec Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1338)   “OK, Mr. Hawk, Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, Mr. Suvik, please come with me. Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Smith, please forward any discoveries to the terminal in my office immediately. Security,” Bree said, glancing at Kohlass, “please remain at your posts." With that, she strode toward the turbolift   Jono quickly moved away from his console and let one of his officers take the post up. He followed Frazier into the turbolift and listened as Bree contacted the new ACMO and the ACSO, Fiacie.   =^=Ahh. Lt. Frazier. I have some rather important news for you also. I'll be along ASAP! Fiacie out. =^= Janeway looked at Bree a little confused, but he shrugged it off as he listened to the ACMO give her response.   (Reply Henna-star)   Bree then went on to finding out where Ensign LaQua had disappeared to. As the computer gave its response, Jono frowned a little and nodded as Frazier said she would find out when they arrived at her office. When they arrived, Bree asked them to make themselves comfortable. Jono, remembering his old mentor Tagon, stood near the door and didn't take a seat. He didn't want to leave somebody else stood up.   Jono stood back and watched as Bree called engineering, and then found out about LaQua. Jono stood still as he heard what had happened to Derrick. He looked around the room and watched the others. He wasn't particularly affected by Derrick’s condition; although it didn't sit well with him that he had never had chance to fully get to know the man. ~Shut up, you're being silly. We have good medical staff...he'll, be up and running very soon...~   Soon enough, Fiacie rumbled into the COP's office and took her seat. As Bree stood up, Jono smiled at her. As the second ranking officer in the room, he understood what it was to take charge, and he admired Bree for doing so.   “Alright, people. As some of your are already aware,” Bree said, glancing around at the officers who had been on the Bridge, “we have discovered a primitive warp vessel, apparently from the planet Irlix, about two days flight hence. We have also discovered that the vessel’s warp signature is identical to a Federation signal. We do not know yet how this is possible, but we mean to find out. We’re looking at a First Contact mission here, but first, we have to find out as much as we can about what we are getting into. Understood?”   Janeway nodded waited for Bree to continue. “Now. I realize that there may have been some… confusion when this phenomenon was first discovered and reported,” she continued, once again nodding at the officers who had been there at the strange senior staff gathering, but with a somewhat harder expression this time. “But please bear in mind that this ship has only been in operation for well under a month. Despite our early successes, we… ALL of us… are still green,” she said, grinning a little at Henna-star. Then she again became dead serious. “However. We can, and will, work as a team on this mission… and make no mistake; Captain Edward Wolfe is very much in command of this vessel. Is that clear?” Bree stated firmly.   "Aye." Was all that Jono said as he nodded in agreement from the back of the room.   (Reply any)   "OK. Mr. Janeway, as you know, overall security preparations for an open First Contact is your ball of wax. Please cooperate closely with Mr. Rhinehart on this… as he has stated, we don’t know for sure what we are getting into, and we don’t want any unnecessary misunderstandings.”   Jono nodded to Bree and then nodded to Rhinehart. "We'll get on it ASAP." He said to the 30. Bree had then gone on to speaking about the Covert mission down to the planet. She explained that she didn't know what the species looked like, she then appointed Hawk to come along with her... To provide security. Jono made a quick mental note to have a quick chat with the Ensign before they beamed down.   (Reply Hawk)   After Hawk had added his piece Bree spoke up again, this time to the newest ACMO on the ship, Henna-star. She asked for the doctor’s presence on the covert team.   (Reply Henna-star)   “Mr. Fiacie, Lieutenant Janeway has requested that a reliable empath be included in the open First Contact team. Therefore, if it is agreeable to him, and to you, I would like you to fulfill that role. Meanwhile, however, I need a contact in Science to help coordinate our efforts there. Please give Mr. Ree a full briefing… I’ll be contacting him to see if he is willing to round out the covert team.” Bree then said to Fiacie.   "Indeed." was all Fiacie said. She seemed a little... disappointed at the news. ~What was the news she had? ~ Jono quickly pondered.   "Ensign, You said you had some rather 'important' news for us also. Would you care to share your findings, now?" Jono said, trying to assert his authority. Bree was doing a brilliant job, but she wasn’t really giving anyone chance to expand on any points they may have had. Simple 'Yes, Sir... No, Sir' answers.   Fiacie turned around to look at Janeway, "Er... yeah. Actually. Sir." Sam stuttered, "I also caught the scan results of the warp one signature. I don't know how much detail you the bridge officers went into?"   Jono was mildly surprised by the revelation and was quite relieved that the ACSO hadn't figured something *new* out... Giving the ship two separate tasks to work on... Separating the team. "Well show us what you have and you'll find out." Jono said to the woman.   "OK, I'll show you what I found out and then you'll see." Fiacie stood up and passed Frazier a PADD, "IF you could insert that into your computer and put it on screen, I'll explain my findings, Sir."   (Reply Bree) "As Lt. Frazier as already said, the warp signature was what I... we, found rather strange. The modulations are exactly the same as a regular Starfleet warp signature. The probability of this happening in our known universe is incalculable and even with all the statistics accounted, for it still comes to a very low probability. Anyway, once I had detected the warp signature I decided to do a little scanning of the planet the vessel originated from. What I found out interests me even more. The planet... you called it Irlix Lt. Frazier, is your standard Minshara (M) Class, with 65% of the surface is covered under water, with normal amounts of nitrogen, oxygen and other trace elements in the air. yet. It's quite different from Earth. Considering the planets 16 hour day cycle - which runs from sunrise to sunset, which equals out at a 32-hour day. Now I believe that this may cause a problem for any team to go down to... Irlix, Each team would have to learn to cope under these conditions."   (Reply Bree, any)   “Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, I think it’s obvious that your services will be required on the open FC team. However, I wanted you to be here, so that you would be in on the overall planning stages. Any comments so far?”   Jono shook his head, "Everything looks fine to me." He looked to Rhinehart.   (Reply Rhinehart)   Bree then explained what she would be doing until the ships arrival at the planet. She then called upon Ensign Smith who presented the team with a visual image of a spidery object behind Irlix's moon. Jono moved closer slightly to take a slightly better look.   (Reply all mentioned, Smith) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain  - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Bird - 1339) Paul was worried. The problem with the Isolinear chip could be a major problem, if it was more than just this one. Paul wished he had someone to turn to for advise, but Lieutenant Delzar seemed to be out of action for some reason, Gabe was dealing with this new situation, and even Chuss was elsewhere. They’d worked well together on the last away mission but Paul hadn’t seen the female Klingon since... ~ Must get over this shyness and socialize off shift, instead of just staying in my room. ~ Paul pushed away the thought for later as he realized that effectively he was in charge of this problem. He crossed other to the main diagnostic display panel. “ Computer , run five level three diagnostic alternated with five level four diagnostics on life support for the whole ship and report back on any anomalies with the results “ [ Running diagnostics ] , intoned the computer . Paul was just about to get in touch with Gabe for advice when his com badge beeped. =^= Lieutenant Frazier to Ensign Bird, Engineering. What’s going on down there? =^= Paul promptly replied, “Sir we have a problem with the Isolinear chips, at the moment I’ve found one. But we may have a ship wide problem with them, compounded with the fact that the computers chance of finding them are a gamble, sir. I could do with some assistance down here, please. “ ~ now I just Wait and see what we get “ Paul didn’t have to wait to long. =^=Suvik-Bertorelli to Bird. =^= ” Sir, we could have a ship wide problem with the Isolinear chips. “ =^=I am on my way to engineering. Our 3rd Officer has requested your presence in her office. There is a meeting currently in progress. =^=   Paul knotted his brow. Why would the 3rd want to see him? “ Aye , Aye Sir , Understood “   =^=Can you wait for me to get there before you leave? I need a status report and there are a few things I want to discuss. =^=   “Sir, I’m waiting for the computer to run several diagnostic programs and to correlate their results, they should be ready about the time you get here.”   =^=Great. Oh, and Bird? You haven’t seen a fat Bolian child hanging around engineering have you. =^=   Paul grinned to himself, so the colonists where still causing problems, “No Sir, I haven’t, but then again I’ve only just got out of the Jeffrey’s.”   =^=Don’t worry I’ll explain when I get down there. Suvik-Bertorelli, out. =^= Paul shook his head ~ Now what! ~ ( Reply Gabe , Any ) ( Posted By Paul ) (USS Champlain – Bridge – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1329) “Thank you, Olen,” replied Bree. He watched her face carefully, looking for the smile on the lips to be reflected in the eyes. “I’d like you to meet with me too, in my office, along with a couple of other key people, as soon as we get clearance, OK? Fact is, I could use a little help…” she smiled again. He found himself at a loss for what to think... to feel. He looked into her green eyes intently, his brows knitting. Could he still allow himself to feel soothed by her presence, even though she had chosen another? Wasn’t this just asking for more heartache? “Okay,” he said, at length, managing a smile. The pair sat there in a silence that was not quite comfortable, without actually being awkward. Rhinehart felt himself drift into thought, as Bree squeezed his shoulder encouragingly on her way past him to talk to Janeway. He stood, gazing silently out into the view screen’s blackness. He could feel the fading warmth, the sensate-memory of her touch disappearing from his flesh - but not from his being. He felt, for a moment, as if he wanted to fall somehow through the screen, out into vacuum, to be alone for all time, deeper than death. He started, struck by a sense of vertigo that suddenly overcame him, the same thing he had experienced every morning since his arrival on the Champlain. He shook his head to dismiss his strange, brooding thoughts, and glanced around the bridge. “Okay,” Bree was saying, an edge of authority to her voice. “Mr. Hawk, Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, Mr. Suvik, please come with me. Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Smith, please forward any discoveries to the terminal in my office immediately. Security,” she said, glancing at Kohlass, “please remain at your posts. With that, she strode toward the turbolift. He was the last into the lift, squeezed awkwardly against the doors, in spite of the plentiful space. He held himself stiff, tense, trying to maintain a respectful distance between himself and the others. >(USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1354) Apparently, it was time for a Serious Briefing. She stood behind her desk, the rest of the crew arranged in a semi-circle in front of it. Rhinehart couldn’t help but marvel at how far Frazier had come. He glanced sideways, looking at the rest of the crew, immaculately turned out, attentive and professional. He had rarely felt more out of place. He remained silent as the briefing unwound, listening carefully to the details of Bree’s plan. “Mr. Janeway,” she was saying, “as you know, overall security preparations for an open First Contact is your ball of wax. Please cooperate closely with Mr. Rhinehart on this… as he has stated, we don’t know for sure what we are getting into, and we don’t want any unnecessary misunderstandings.” Janeway nodded to Bree and then at Rhinehart. ”We’ll get on it ASAP,” he said. Rhinehart listened as the other teams were briefed. It sounded like the FC team was getting the milk run. He wondered if they would be expected to act as a diversion for the covert operatives, as they got their mission underway. “Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, I think it’s obvious that your services will be required on the open FC team. However, I wanted you to be here, so that you would be in on the overall planning stages. Any comments so far?” Janeway shook his head, “Everything looks fine to me.” He looked to Rhinehart. “Assuming our two missions are to be carried out concurrently, will there be any way for the two separate teams to communicate with each other as their missions are ongoing?” said Rhinehart. “I could easily foresee a situation where our team, or yours, might want to feed information back or forth. Some covert system or cipher could be arranged, perhaps?” (Reply any) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Ops- Ensign Smith - 1340) ”My display confirms what you have found Ensign. I will limit my search to a tactical analysis, if you concentrate on finding out what other technologies are present. This station may give us a good representation of what technologies they have besides warp,” she said coolly. Robert nodded. “Yes Sir.” He went back to his console looking at the data that he was getting from the scans. ~Hmm... Okay, its about 883,365 pounds, 35,000 cubic feet, 560 feet by 304 feet long and 170 feet high~ He kept looking at the data and glanced at the scans from the planet. ~Nice mountain ranges. Must be some nice views from the top. Better then getting you back side bitten off by the mosquitoes~ “Ensign Smith, Frazier. Forward me what you have.” He looked up from the console. “Yes Lieutenant.” He down loaded the information and the image that he had found to Bree. “Assessment, Mr. Smith?” Robert looked over at Sullivan who started. ”Scans show only the one warp signature in system, it has powered down at this time. Weapons, on the station there are three rocket launcher batteries and six x-ray lasers. On the planet, there is multiple surface-to-surface weaponry, mostly ICBMs. All weapon systems are powered down. Looks like they may have had some kind of cold war, stockpiling weapons, similar to Earth pre Eugenics Wars. At this time Isle no severe threats to the Champlain.” “Come up with anything Ensign Smith?” Robert nodded. “Yes Sir.” He scanned the data that he had gotten. “Sir from the computer data the station should hold about twenty crew. It’s made up of sixteen modules, which were boosted into orbit and attached together. It’s very low-tech stuff. Every thing they have is from the planet. Vacuum packed food no gravity. Not many home comforts.” He paused brining up some of the planarity images that he had gotten. They were nothing special. The closer they got to the planet the clearer they would become but it was a start. “From the images that we have gotten from the planet. It’s covered by about 45% ocean. The images show a mountainous regain crossing the northern hemisphere. The southern hemisphere is a tropical rain forest. We will have better images when we get closer.” (reply any) (reply any) (posted by Robbie) (USS Champlain – Turbo Lift – ACEO Ensign Bird -1346) Paul entered the turbo lift relieved that Gabe was on the problem of the Isolinear chips , his words just seconds ago had shown he had a grasp of the problem , and its significance , ~ Gabe’s the man , he’ll sort this ~ . As Paul gave the directions to Lt. Frazier’s office to the lift, Paul felt intrigued as to what she would want with him and how it tied up with whatever had happened on the bridge. Although the two had not actually met, Paul new that Frazier was a competent officer, as the recent mission had shown. His brows knitted as he thought about that mission, wondering about Frazier and the other senior officers as after the captain’s disappearance, a stab of guilt at the thought. Lt Janeway had officially taken other the mission but it was Frazier who seemed to take control , even continued to do so even when no. 1 beamed down , ~ I wonder what it is with those two that made her have to do this ~ . As the turbo lift doors opened, Paul also had to wonder at Mason’s decision to beam down. Star Fleets standing orders stated that the captain of a vessel should not normally beam into a hostile situation, but a few Captains’, apparently Wolfe amongst them, seemed to need to have hands on approach and be in the thick of it. Mason beaming down in this case had meant that all of the most senior officers where in the colony and an accident could have left the Champlain without a command officer. Paul put away these thoughts, took a large breathe and entered the ops. Office. >(USS Champlain – Ops office – ACEO Ensign Bird -1348) Paul entered the room, after greeting the others took a seat, and waited for the meeting to begin. Shortly after he had entered  a pretty Orion female dressed in medical blue slipped into the room and sat down , Paul nearly blushed , ~ ‘ Pretty ‘ not normally how you some up a fellow officer , come on , pull yourself together . ~ The arrival of the Orion kicked of the meeting as Lt Frazier began to speak. “Alright, people. As some of your are already aware,” she said, “we have discovered a primitive warp vessel, apparently from the planet Irlix, about two days flight hence. We have also discovered that the vessel’s warp signature is identical to a Federation signal. We do not know yet how this is possible, but we mean to find out. We’re looking at a First Contact mission here, but first, we have to find out as much as we can about what we are getting into. Understood?” (Reply Hawk, Janeway, Henna-star, Fiacie, Rhinehart) Paul nodded as others replied. ~ A Federation warp signal. How? , It can’t be a coincidence, so what, federation scientists helping them. No the Lt. said this was a first contact, stolen Federation technology then sold to them by whom? Or what else? ~ Paul’s thought where interrupted as the Lt. continued. “Now. I realize that there may have been some… confusion when this phenomenon was first discovered and reported , But please bear in mind that this ship has only been in operation for well under a month. Despite our early successes, we… ALL of us… are still green,” she said, grinning a little in spite of herself at Henna-star “However. We can, and will, work as a team on this mission… and make no mistake; Captain Edward Wolfe is very much in command of this vessel. Is that clear?” she stated firmly. (Reply Hawk, Janeway, Henna-star, Fiacie, Rhinehart) Paul agreed along with the others. Paul concentrated on the problem in hand, as Frazier went around the room informing each of those gathered there what she expected from them to which they gave reply. After the Frazier spoke to the Orion woman, Henna-Star, it was Paul’s turn. “Mr. Bird, would you be willing to participate in this? It might prove dangerous, but we need to find out where these people came by Federation technology, and determine any alterations or special… twists they might have put on it.” “Aye, aye Sir, I’d be glad to help out, I’m fascinated by where they got that technology from.” After she had finished talking to the rest of the personal, Lt. Frazier comm-ed ensign Smith to put up all the data on Irlix that they gathered so far up on the screen. As the information scrolled past Paul’s eyes opened wider in amazement. ~ Curiouser and curiouser ~ ( Reply Any Present ) ( Posted By Paul ) (USS Champlain - Bridge – Chief Tactical - Lieutenant JG T’Larah Sullivan - 1347)   She watched the information stream across her console, until it stopped.    She tapped her com badge. “Sullivan to Lieutenant Frazier, preliminary scans complete,” she announced.   (Reply Frazier)   “Scans show only the one warp signature in system, it has powered down at this time. Weapons, on the station there are three rocket launcher batteries and six x-ray lasers. On the planet, there is multiple surface-to-surface weaponry, mostly ICBMs. All weapon systems are powered down. Looks like they may have had some kind of cold war, stockpiling weapons, similar to Earth pre-Eugenics Wars. At this time I see no severe threats to the Champlain.” she rattled off dryly reading it off a list. “I am also currently sending all my data to your terminal.”    (Reply Frasier)   “Of Course, I will keep you informed, Sullivan out.” she said. Waiting to see how far the others got with their information gathering.   (Reply Any) (Posted by Todd) (USS Champlain – Ops office – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier -1350)   When all those she had called to her office were assembled, Bree took a deep breath. She stood up, her fingertips resting on her desk, feeling absurdly like a cheerleader coach just before the big pep rally… but it had to be done.   “Alright, people. As some of your are already aware,” she said, glancing around at the officers who had been on the Bridge, “we have discovered a primitive warp vessel, apparently from the planet Irlix, about two days flight hence. We have also discovered that the vessel’s warp signature is identical to a Federation signal. We do not know yet how this is possible, but we mean to find out. We’re looking at a First Contact mission here, but first, we have to find out as much as we can about what we are getting into. Understood?”   (Reply Hawk, Janeway, Henna-star, Fiacie, Bird, Rhinehart)   ~ Here comes the rally speech… ~ Bree took another deep breath.   “Now. I realize that there may have been some… confusion when this phenomenon was first discovered and reported,” she continued, once again nodding at the officers who had been there at the strange senior staff gathering, but with a somewhat harder expression this time. “But please bear in mind that this ship has only been in operation for well under a month. Despite our early successes, we… ALL of us… are still green”, she said, grinning a little in spite of herself at Henna-star, hoping the young doctor would appreciate her well-meant humor and not take offense. Then she again became dead serious. “However. We can, and will, work as a team on this mission… and make no mistake; Captain Edward Wolfe is very much in command of this vessel. Is that clear?” she stated firmly.   (Reply all above)   OK. Mr. Janeway, as you know, overall security preparations for an open First Contact is your ball of wax. Please cooperate closely with Mr. Rhinehart on this… as he has stated, we don’t know for sure what we are getting into, and we don’t want any unnecessary misunderstandings.”   (Reply Janeway, Rhinehart)   “As we learned on our last mission, there are some things you can’t really find out about a planet until you actually set foot on it… hence, Captain Wolfe’s suggestion that we may want to prepare a covert advance team. Now, we don’t know what these people look like yet, so we don’t know how hard or easy that will be… but my impression from what little I’ve seen of their ship is that it is probably built by and for a humanoid species of roughly our size. I could be wrong… we’ll just have to wait and see what our cameraman can send us,” she said, smiling as she thought of her eager colleague Robert. “But meanwhile, I’m going to go with my hunch and get an idea of who might be good to take planeside. I will be going down, if any of us can. Mr. Hawk has already volunteered his services… he will back me up, and provide security for us. According to his records, he has tactical and security training, and his experience as a non-commissioned officer might prove invaluable,” she said, nodding at Hawk and pausing.   (Reply Hawk, in your words)   “I don’t want to take more than five people, so that leaves me needing a doctor, an engineer, and a science officer. Mr. Henna-star, I would like you to accompany us.”   (Reply Henna-star)   “Mr. Bird, would you be willing to participate in this? It might prove dangerous, but we need to find out where these people came by Federation technology, and determine any alterations or special… twists they might have put on it.”   (Reply Bird)   “Mr. Fiacie, Lieutenant Janeway has requested that a reliable empath be included in the open First Contact team. Therefore, if it is agreeable to him, and to you, I would like you to fulfill that role. Meanwhile, however, I need a contact in Science to help coordinate our efforts there. Please give Mr. Ree a full briefing… I’ll be contacting him to see if he is willing to round out the covert team.”   (Reply Fiacie, Janeway)   Then Bree turned to the last two officers. “Mr. Janeway, Mr. Rhinehart, I think it’s obvious that your services will be required on the open FC team. However, I wanted you to be here, so that you would be in on the overall planning stages. Any comments so far?” Bree wanted to talk to Olen, but what she had to say to him needed to be said in private, so she just glanced at him meaningfully, hoping he would get the idea and lag behind a bit when the meeting was over.   (Reply Janeway, Rhinehart)   When Bree had finished talking to all the personnel gathered, she said, “For my part, I will be studying a little history. I’ll check Federation records to see what I can find out about how this people might have acquired our technology, and when we get some better reports coming in, try to put together some theories about the culture we will be encountering. Now, let’s see what we already have so far.”   She turned to her terminal as she tapped her com badge. “Ensign Smith, Frazier. Forward me what you have.”   (Reply Smith)   As Robert forwarded his report, Bree put it on the view screen for all to see. A strange, spidery object appeared from behind Irlix’s moon. Her eyes widened as she tapped her badge again. “Assessment, Mr. Smith?” she said simply, wondering if what she saw was as amazing to the others as it was to her.   (Reply Smith, any) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - COPS Office – Asst. Chief Science Officer, Ens. Sam Fiacie - 1353)   Fiacie had been in her chair for almost 7 minutes now. Surrounded by other staff, Some of them she had seen before... Some of them she had not. This was a rather unusual atmosphere for Fiacie. She didn't usually turn up to staff meetings. She proffered to have LaQua or d'Kla's'turr head off to them and then read their reports on the meeting. It was easier AND nobody had complained to her about it... yet.   She had sat and listened to Bree go on about the warp signature... the one she had found. Her big news, she hoped nobody asked about what she had said over the comm. She would be made to look like a fool if they did.   “Mr. Fiacie, Lieutenant Janeway has requested that a reliable empath be included in the open First Contact team. Therefore, if it is agreeable to him, and to you, I would like you to fulfill that role. Meanwhile, however, I need a contact in Science to help coordinate our efforts there. Please give Mr. Ree a full briefing… I’ll be contacting him to see if he is willing to round out the covert team.” Bree then said to Fiacie.   Fiacie looked Bree in the face and said, "Indeed." and she left it at that. ~Hmmm, Janeway. He was the one who wouldn't let me release the colonists... And the one who arrested Schell~   "Ensign, You said you had some rather 'important' news for us also. Would you care to share your findings, now?" A voice from behind her said. She turned around to find out who had said it. She quickly realized it was Janeway, ~Of course... yes, Sir. Arh! ~   "Er... yeah. Actually. Sir." Sam stuttered, "I also caught the scan results of the warp one signature. I don't know how much detail you the bridge officers went into?" She didn't want to sound too much of a fool, hopefully the scans she had done on the planet might make her scans... relative to the discussion.   "Well show us what you have and you'll find out." Janeway said. She wasn’t sure if he was trying to order her to do something or ask her to do it. Either way... she couldn't refuse. He was the second highest ranking officer in the room... Only Frazier was above him. ~Brilliant~   "OK, I'll show you what I found out and then you'll see." Fiacie stood up and passed Frazier a PADD, "IF you could insert that into your computer and put it on screen, I'll explain my findings, Sir." She had quickly added the 'sir' on to the end of her sentence, trying not too be too rude with the 30.   (Reply Frazier)   "As Lt. Frazier as already said, the warp signature was what I... we, found rather strange. The modulations are exactly the same as a regular Starfleet warp signature. The probability of this happening in our known universe is incalculable and even with all the statistics accounted, for it still comes to a very low probability. Anyway, once I had detected the warp signature I decided to do a little scanning of the planet the vessel originated from. What I found out interests me even more. The planet.. you called it Irlix Lt. Frazier, is your standard Minshara (M) Class, with 65% of the surface is covered under water, with normal amounts of nitrogen, oxygen and other trace elements in the air. Yet. It's quite different from Earth. Considering the planets 16 hour day cycle - which runs from sunrise to sunset, which equals out at a 32-hour day. Now I believe that this may cause a problem for any team to go down to... Irlix, Each team would have to learn to cope under these conditions." Sam said. She hadn't considered the effect of the cycle on any away team. But she quickly added it onto the end of her conclusions to make it look like she had.   (Reply Bree, any)   The meeting then went on and Fiacie sat back a little bit. Until the image of the spidery object behind the moon appeared. It seemed that she had missed something. It definitely looked like a space station... one of very old Earth technology... ~It couldn't be~ It looked to be a very close match to the 21st century type space stations.   (Reply all) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - COPS Office – 3O Bree Frazier – 1400)   Bree had finished her first round of speaking with the officers gathered in her office. All seemed to be ready… save one. As Lt. Janeway asked Fiacie to report her findings, she frowned slightly as she considered Hawk’s stony, sullen silence. ~ Volunteer or no, maybe he’s not such a good choice for the covert team after all… ~ But she quickly she quickly set her concerns aside, deciding to present the matter to Edward and go with his decision as she listened to Fiace, bringing up  the data she offered on the view screen. ~ Interesting… 36 hour solar cycle, that should make things… interesting… ~ Bree nodded, and thanked the Science officer as she then brought up Robert’s scan, and asked him for an assessment.   However, before he could respond, T’Larah’s cool voice came over the com with her requested report. Her suggestion of a possible cold war made Bree’s blood run a little cold. She remembered the history of Earth, when the “Space Race” first began in the mid 20th Century… both a result of and a provocation for just such a cold war. “Thank you, Mr. Sullivan,” she said. “Under the circumstances, with extremely rapid technological advances, a cold war might be quite possible. I’ll look into the history files and see if I can come up with any theories on that. Keep scanning, and keep us posted. Please concentrate on that ship for now, until we get closer to the system.   (Reply T’Larah)   Now, Robert, tell us about that station,” Bree said.   “Sir, from the computer data, the station should hold about twenty crew,” Robert replied. “It’s made up of sixteen modules, which were boosted into orbit and attached together. It's very low-tech stuff. Every thing they have is from the planet. Vacuum packed food, no gravity. Not many home comforts.”   “Anything else?” Bree asked, leaving the channel open as she heard talking on the Bridge. ~Still having focus problems up there, apparently… ~ But Bree was able to piece something reasonably coherent from all the out-of order chattering. After a pause, Robert continued.   “From the images that we have gotten from the planet, it's covered by about 45% ocean. The images show a mountainous regain crossing the northern hemisphere. The southern hemisphere is a tropical rain forest. We will have better images when we get closer.”   Bree frowned, arching an eyebrow in Fiacie’s direction. Frankly, if there was a rain forest, Fiacie’s figures of 65% water made a whole lot more sense… but as Robert said, they were not even in the system yet, so there would inevitably conflicting reports until they got closer. ~ But how… ~   “OK, Mr. Smith, we have some conflicting data here. Officer Fiacie’s scans showed 65% water coverage,” Bree stated, then voiced her own question, both to Robert and to Fiacie. “And if this is, as Mr. Fiacie has assessed, a Class M temperate planet that rotates on an even remotely normal axis, I don’t see how the northern hemisphere can be all one way and the southern one the other. Shouldn’t the rain forests be concentrated near the equatorial band, and the caps be at least cooler, if not polar?” Bree was not a scientist, but this was basic stuff she learned in elementary school. The longer solar cycle might make for larger, warmer equatorial regions, maybe a lack of ice caps, but would not explain such an odd division of the thermal regions. “We need to keep scanning, get our data together, and come up with a more cohesive picture. Mr. Smith, keep an eye out for any signs of cities or other concentrations of technology. I want to know where and how these people live these days.”   (Reply Robert)   Bree cut the channel and turned to Fiacie. “Mr. Fiacie, I think we need you on the Bridge. See if you can get together with Professor d’Kla and get things organized up there until the rest of us get back, would you? Please take some closer looks at that space station too…and keep in touch.”   (Reply Fiacie)   Bree turned to Henna-star. “Mr. Henna-star, when we find out what these people look like, we might need Medical to do some quick cosmetic magic on the members of the covert team… that is, if we look enough like them to blend in at all. We should know in a couple of days. Mr. Sullivan said she could hide us out for a while, but it will still probably have to be fast work. Would you be so kind as to report back to sickbay, and pass along the word to be prepared?   (Reply Henna-star)   Bree then sent Bird back to engineering. He was needed there, and there was little more he could do here for a while. That left her with her ‘core’, as she saw them… Janeway, Olen, and Hawk. She looked at them all in turn.   “Mr. Rhinehart,” she said, the formal address tasting strange and rather unwelcome,” I agree with you about the need for some kind of coded form of message transmission. If these people have Federation technology, then it’s possible they might have some of our codes, too. I’ll get on that… and see if I can get Mr. Smith to whip us up some clever devices to translate and send that won’t be obvious. He’s good at clever devices, as long as he’s not trying to hack the ship’s computers with them,” she said with a conspiratorial but kind grin. “Now… any more questions?” she asked, addressing all of them.   (Reply Janeway, Rhinehart, Hawk)   After that discussion wound down, Bree turned Janeway and Hawk. “Mr. Janeway, Mr. Hawk, would you be so kind as to get together and discuss the security issues that the advance covert team might encounter, and begin preparations? And Mr. Hawk, if the Captain does take my recommendations and assign you to the advance team, we’ll need to work pretty closely together… I’ll hail you, OK?”   (Reply Janeway, Hawk)   After Janeway and Hawk had gone their way, Bree turned at last to Olen. She sat down, visibly dropping her newly minted ‘command’ persona in his solitary, comforting presence.   “Olen,” she said with a weary sigh, “you saw what went on up there,” she said with a flittering hand gesture toward the Bridge. “I’m sure Edward and Commander Mason will be fine… but he might need you to… um… back him up a little from time to time…” she said, fumbling a little for words, hoping Olen would understand.   (Reply Olen)   “And one more thing. If Mr. Hawk hasn’t had his entrance psych eval yet, could you make sure it gets done before the advance team goes in?” She tried to keep her expression neutral… but if Olen could see her concern… well, so be it. ~ I’ve missed him so… ~   (Reply Olen)   >(USS Champlain - COPS Office – 3O Bree Frazier – 1425)   It had been a long hour… but the day’s work was only beginning. Bree tapped her com badge.   “Lieutenant Frazier to Captain Wolfe. Ready to report at your convenience, Sir.” With that, she scooped up the PADD that held her notes and headed back toward the Bridge.   (Reply Wolfe) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Ops Office – ACMO Ensign Henna-star – 1402) All in the room sat and listen to what Lieutenant Frazier had to say. Then in turn she turned to everyone in the room and told them what was to happen next. As Henna-star sat there listening to what was being said but she couldn’t concentrate, she still couldn’t work out what she had just seen. ~None of this makes sense~ she thought to herself. While she fidgeted in her seat, Bree turned to her and started to talk. Henna stopped fidgeting and gave the lieutenant her full attention. “Mr. Henna-star, when we find out what these people look like, we might need Medical to do some quick cosmetic magic on the members of the covert team… that is, if we look enough like them to blend in at all. We should know in a couple of days. Mr. Sullivan said she could hide us out for a while, but it will still probably have to be fast work. Would you be so kind as to report back to sickbay, and pass along the word to be prepared? “Yes, of course. Right away” Henna reply and with that she rose from her seat and left the room. Behind her she could hear the conversation continuing. (Reply none) (Posted Becky) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1402) “Now… any more questions?” asked Bree. Rhinehart just shook his head, his expression open. A warm prickle of jealousy crawled over his skin. The one thing he desired more than anything was to possess the kind of warm, genial confidence that emanated from Bree like a lighthouse. For that, he supposed, he would have to become a different man. His thoughts echoed. They had started as equals... but perhaps she could serve as his inspiration. He lingered awkwardly as the other officers filed out of the office, shifting his weight from foot to foot. He half-expected Bree to fix a questioning gaze upon him as he hung around expectantly. Instead, she collapsed into her seat, looking exhausted. “Olen,” she said, “you saw what went on up there,” waving her hand towards the door. “I’m sure Edward and Commander Mason will be fine… but he might need you to… um… back him up a little from time to time…” “Of course,” he said, simply, with a shrug. “It's my job.” “And one more thing. If Mr. Hawk hasn’t had his entrance psych eval yet, could you make sure it gets done before the advance team goes in?” Rhinehart searched her face for a moment before answering. “Certainly. I'll try and corner him this shift,” he said, still looking at her intently. Slowly, he moved towards a seat across the desk, settling himself into it slowly. He wondered what it was he could see in her features... Anxiety? Stress? Or was it something else? He settled back in the chair, crossing one leg over the other. By degrees, he felt a companionable silence settle over the pair. Minutes passed. He gave a small cough. “So,” he said eventually. “How have you been, Bree?” (Reply Bree) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - COPS Office –  ACEO Ensign Bird – 1404) Paul listened to the rest of the meeting, his mind playing over his assignment, when only a few moments later the meeting for him came to an end. Lt Frazier acknowledged that with the planet a few days away and the scans providing little accurate knowledge relevant to an engineer, Paul had the time to help out in engineering and try to get a handle with the problem down there. Paul left the briefing room and walked back along the corridor  , his mind full of  conflicting emotions  and worries ;- Excitement  ~ The up coming mission sounded like something he could really get his teeth into ~ Dread ~ Open skies , no comforting thrum through the deck floor , no background engine noises and      bird song ~ Unease ~ Working close with these people who I don't really know as my shyness has kept me apart from the crew , got to improve my inter-personal skills ~ Guilt ~ should of asked what a ' cold ' war was , better look it up later ~ Puzzlement ~ How have they got a federation warp core, or at least one that gives of the same signature, and are they up to warp technology anyway? ~ Concern ~ Just what is the problem with those blasted Isolinear chips? ~ Worry ~ How is Lt Delzar doing ~ Relief  ~ At least Gabe is on the problem , so we should quickly get to the bottom of it between us ~ Anger  ~ with myself for not fitting in better , must start to socialize , Hmm, I wonder if I should meet that engineering crewman , Carol , for the drink he owed her ? ~ Surprise ~ I'm here ~, that last thought coming as Paul, almost absentmindedly, walked into main engineering. Looking up Paul saw the controlled chaos that was the Champlain's heart and smiled to despite himself ~ Honey I'm home, did you miss me? ~ ( Reply Gabe , any engineer at the warp core) ( Posted by Paul ) (USS Champlain - OPS Office – ACOPS Ensign Hawk – 1405)   For the past few minutes, Hawk stayed silent, listening to the details of the upcoming missions. David let his thoughts wander imagining the covert mission and how many ways it could go wrong.    "Now… any more questions?” The sound of Frazier finishing her briefing snapped Hawk back to the meeting.   "No Ma'am," David said.   After everyone settled down, Hawk saw Frazier look his way.   “Mr. Janeway, Mr. Hawk," she began. "Would you be so kind as to get together and discuss the security issues that the advance covert team might encounter, and begin preparations? And Mr. Hawk, if the Captain does take my recommendations and assign you to the advance team, we’ll need to work pretty closely together… I’ll hail you, OK?”   "Not a problem at all," Hawk said once again thinking about anything that could go wrong. He knew he'd have no problem working with Janeway.   (Reply Janeway, Frazier) (Posted by Brian) (USS Champlain - COPS Office – SC Lt. Jono Janeway – 1406)   As soon as the channel with Ensign Smith was cut Bree turned back to the members in her office. She focused on Fiacie. “Mr. Fiacie, I think we need you on the Bridge. See if you can get together with Professor d’Kla and get things organized up there until the rest of us get back, would you? Please take some closer looks at that space station too…and keep in touch.”   Fiacie nodded, "I'll be in touch." was all she said before making her way through the room and out of the door. Once Fiacie had left Bree continued,    “Mr. Henna-star, when we find out what these people look like, we might need Medical to do some quick cosmetic magic on the members of the covert team… that is, if we look enough like them to blend in at all. We should know in a couple of days. Mr. Sullivan said she could hide us out for a while, but it will still probably have to be fast work. Would you be so kind as to report back to sickbay, and pass along the word to be prepared?"   As Henna replied Jono continued watching the reactions of the other people in the room. He continuously watched the new Ops Ensign, He was very quiet, but that wasn’t unusual for a newcomer.   “Mr. Rhinehart,” Bree said,”I agree with you about the need for some kind of coded form of message transmission. If these people have Federation technology, then it’s possible they might have some of our codes, too. I’ll get on that… and see if I can get Mr. Smith to whip us up some clever devices to translate and send that won’t be obvious. He’s good at clever devices, as long as he’s not trying to hack the ship’s computers with them,” she said with a conspiratorial but kind grin. “Now… any more questions?” she asked, addressing all of them.   Janeway didn't really smile that much at the mention of Smiths attempt on the computer systems in the last mission, He had been meaning to get together with Smith and look into improving the ships computer defenses. If he knew how to get in, Surely he would have had some ideas for improving them.   Jono shook his head as Bree had asked if there were any more questions, He hoped Hawk would have something to say but seconds later it was obvious he didn't as he replied with the standard, "No Ma'am," At that point Janeway wondered whether Bree preferred Ma'am or Sir from those underneath her. Only time would tell.   As the conversation settled down Bree turned back to Hawk and continued to look to Janeway also. “Mr. Janeway, Mr. Hawk," she began. "Would you be so kind as to get together and discuss the security issues that the advance covert team might encounter, and begin preparations? And Mr. Hawk, if the Captain does take my recommendations and assign you to the advance team, we’ll need to work pretty closely together… I’ll hail you, OK?” "Not a problem at all," Hawk said.   Jono nodded to Bree, Understanding what she wanted. "We'll get right on it. Ensign we must make our way down to the security section." He said motioning for Hawk to lead the way out of the door, Before the door closed behind them Jono turned and nodded to Bree and then to Olen in-turn.   (USS Champlain - Security Deck, Sec Chiefs Office - Security Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1416)   Jono entered the pass-code to enter his office and lead the Ops Ensign inside, He took a seat behind his desk and motioned for the Ensign to follow suit and sit. He quickly pulled up all the information the science department and T'Larah Sullivan had pulled up on the planet so far. He turned the screen around so both he and Hawk could see it, "Now. We're here to decide on the necessary security precautions that need to be put in place for the covert team." He said allowing himself a break, Waiting to see if Hawk would respond.   (Reply Hawk)   "The information that Mr. Sullivan has presented us with is in-valuable as if the information Mr. Fiacie has. The 32 hour cycle period in each day may cause issues for certain members of the teams - members that aren’t specifically trained in security or proper survival training. The suspected Cold war is another problem and we need to decide on how to deal with these threats, Any input Ensign?" Janeway asked.   (Reply Hawk) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Bridge - Ops - Ensign Smith– 1407) =^=OK, Mr. Smith, we have some conflicting data here. Officer Fiacie’s scans showed 65% water coverage=^= =^=And if this is, as Mr. Fiacie has assessed, a Class M temperate planet that rotates on an even remotely normal axis, I don’t see how the northern hemisphere can be all one way and the southern one the other. Shouldn’t the rain forests be concentrated near the equatorial band, and the caps be at least cooler, if not polar?” =^= =^=“We need to keep scanning, get our data together, and come up with a more cohesive picture. Mr. Smith, keep an eye out for any signs of cities or other concentrations of technology. I want to know where and how these people live these days. =^= Robert paused before answering. “Yes Sir.” As channel closed he accessed the data that he was receiving from the sensors. He then crosschecked it with the data that was being given to the science department. He felt his face redden as he realized that he had not accessed a high band spectral program to the data. It was the kind of mistake that a first year cadet would make but he was not a first year cadet. He quickly decided what to do as shut down his terminal and left the bridge. >(USS Champlain - Astrometrics– Ops - Ensign Smith–1414) Robert entered Astrometrics and looked at the giant image of the planet he had been studying on the bridge. The image took up most of the wall. ~The image is a little better. But size does help~ He looked back at the Chief who was working in astrometrics. “Chief, is this the data that is being sent to the science department?” (Reply Ree) He looked again at the image. “Chief is this the best we can do? You think with the sensors on board we could get a better picture?” (Reply Ree) Robert nodded. “That’s true chief, we could launch a Class III.” ~Send a planetary probe would give us a good heads-up~ (Reply Ree) “Hmm yes the Class VII probe would be good as well. My problem chief is that they have an orbiting space station they might be slightly un-nerved when a couple of probes pass by their window. I need to find a way to get maximum coverage of the planet with out being spotted.” Robert new that probes was not his strong point and listened to what the chief had to say. (Reply Ree) “Would it not be easier if we just stuck it orbit on the opposite side from the station?” (Reply Ree) “Hmm that might be true lets look at the data we have a see what we can come up with.” He walked over to the central console where the chief was working. (Reply Ree, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Champlain – Corridor – ACMO Ensign Henna-star - 1411)   Henna-star walked through the corridor leading away from the Ops office. Walking slowly around the ship, many crewmembers passed her by. Everyone was busy doing there own jobs minding there own business. She continued to walk down the corridor and took a sharp turn right.   Suddenly Henna stopped dead, in the middle of the corridor. Everything was silent. No one was about. Henna looked around her. She didn’t recognize were she was. ~Where am I? I can’t be lost! ~ She thought to herself. Shear panic wiped over her face. After looking about her, she turned around and walked the way she had just come. Her pace quicken, nearly breaking into a run. She needed to find a turbolift or at least someone to help her find her way.   Rushing around, she couldn’t believe that she couldn’t find any one to help. ~Where have all the crewmembers gone? There were loads before of them before~, As she thought this a crewmember came into Henna’s view. With all the decorum she could muster she hurried over to him. Before her was a man, who seemed rather annoyed to have been stopped by Henna.   “So sorry to bother you but I am lost can you point me out the nearest turbolift?” She asked him kindly. Without saying a word the man lifted his arm and pointed behind him. So happy that finally she could get back to sickbay, she gave the man a hug and swiftly walked off before he could say anything.   Before her a turbolift came into view. Henna let out a sigh of relief. She walked into the turbolift and tried composed herself. “Deck 12 please” The lift went up and the doors opened before her. She walked down the corridor and walked right into the sickbay just in time to hear Doctor Mor’rel say. "I see. I hope Ensign Henna-Star reports in soon. We have a few other items to discuss prior to the mission."   “Sorry Sir, I got lost. Won’t happen again!” ~I hope~ She thought to herself.   (Reply Mor’rel) (Posted by Becky) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier – 1413)   Bree was grateful beyond expression when Olen settled in. She basked in the familiar comfort of his presence… something she had wondered if she would ever again be privileged to do. She knew how he’d been feeling since he’d witnessed her holding Edward, and even before that… and the guilt she felt over avoiding him all week almost overwhelmed her. He might not be empathic, but he was hardly stupid. She would never, never have hurt him like that on purpose … but it had just… happened…   Finally, when he spoke, the dam nearly burst.   “So… how have you been, Bree?” he said gently, with a small cough.   “Confused,” she shot back honestly, her voice almost choking a little. She shook her head… she didn’t have much time with him now, she still had to report to Edward soon… but he deserved… something! ~ Make it count, Bree… ~   Tears threatened to well up in her eyes as she continued rather shakily, the words hanging up in her throat.   “Olen, I’m so sorry… I never meant… but I don’t know what’s happening. I really don’t. It all happened so fast… I’ve never felt this way about anybody before, and now… well, I don’t know what to do! All I know is, I care about both of you, but I don’t know what any of it means right now. One minute you’re there, the next minute you’re not… Edward, he’s… the Captain, and … she trailed off, because if she kept talking, her aching heart would overrule her self control. She hoped Olen would understand and not reject her outpouring out of hand, which would be little less than she felt she deserved at this point…   (Reply Olen) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Astrometrics– Science Officer – CPO Banda Ree– 1415) Ree was processing the scans from the planet and passing it to the different departments that needed the information. It was not the most fun assignment he had ever had but was something different so he did not complain. “Chief is this the data that is being sent to the science department?” Ree looked at an Ensign who he had not noticed enter. It took him a few seconds to realize that it was the one who had been framed as a traitor. That’s what the rumours said any way. “Yes Ensign.” He looked again at the image. “Chief, is this the best we can do? You think with the sensors on board we could get a better picture?” “ Ensign the sensor suit we have is excellent. If you want a better image you would have to launch a probe.” He saw the Ensign think about what he had said. “That’s true chief we could launch a Class III.” Ree looked back at the image of the planet. “I would also suggest sending a remote culture probe as well.” “Hmm yes the Class VII probe would be good as well. My problem chief is that they have an orbiting space station they might be slightly un-nerved when a couple of probes pass by their window. I need to find a way to get maximum coverage of the planet with out being spotted.” Ree paused for a moment before answering. “Ensign the class III and class VII probes are not warp capable. The only way we could do it is if we there sensor pallets into a class VIII probe shell. It should not be that difficult.” “Would it not be easier if we just stuck it orbit on the opposite side from the station?” ~Might work for both types~ “That might work for the remote culture study probe as well as the planetary probe. As they will have to be in a Class VIII hull they won‘t be able to do a sub-surface penetration mission. The only snag would-be if the station is orbiting rather then free. It would limit the areas we could scan.” “Hmm that might be true let’s look at the data we have a see what we can come up with.” The Ensign walked over to the central console where he was working and they started. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1415) He watched her closely, caught the catch in her voice, sensed the emotional torrent dammed up inside her as she spoke. He had thought she had already left him far, far behind. Her next words, broken, fragmented, aching, told Rhinehart how wrong he had been. “Olen, I’m so sorry… I never meant… but I don’t know what’s happening. I really don’t. It all happened so fast… I’ve never felt this way about anybody before, and now… well, I don’t know what to do! All I know is, I care about both of you, but I don’t know what any of it means right now. One minute you’re there, the next minute you’re not… Edward, he’s… the Captain, and …” For the first time since he had sat down, he averted his eyes, shaking his head. It hurt to watch her hurt. He wasn't surprised. For better or worse, one way or the other, this had to end. It was time to make a choice. “Bree,” he said gently, “I never went anywhere. I was never more than one tap away.” He brought his hand up to his combadge, fingertips hovering over it symbolically. “You were the one who went away.” (Reply Bree) He paused a moment, gathering himself, casting his mind back, ordering the way he had seen things unfold. Deep Space Five. The hip injury. The painkillers he had taken to get through the mission. The anaphylactic reaction. The rift that had opened between them. And that terrible moment at the foot of the mountain... that was the key. “I... I saw you, Bree,” he said, raising his eyes again. “After DS5. You were so... distant with me at the debrief. And I wondered why you didn't come to see me in sickbay. I didn't understand. But I swallowed my pride and I came looking for you, to talk things through. And I found you. On top of a mountain, in the holodeck. Sharing the view with the captain.” He worked hard to keep the rage he had felt at that moment from seeping into his voice again. Not for the first time, he found himself wondering why he bothered with these customary defences of his. He had never been less than an open book to this woman. (Reply Bree) “I don't get mad often, Bree. But... but, you know what, I've learned to live with it. And I don't blame you in the least. He's the dashing space captain, after all. I'm just some neurotic bookworm with a crappy office.” He caught himself again, ashamed by the bucolic edge in his voice. “I'm sorry, that's unfair,” he continued. He blew out a long breath; the expression of emotion was difficult and tiring. “It's just, to my mind, you'd made your choice clear back then. I needed you, Bree. I think you needed me too. But instead, you ran directly to the captain, and left me to talk to Jack Daniels. That's how I saw it, at least. When I saw you and him on Ivor Prime, at least I didn't have to wonder if I'd lost you any more. Now my only question is... where do we go from here?” He paused again. "All I want, Bree, is for you to be happy." (Reply Bree) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier – 1416)   Olen looked away as Bree poured out her heart to him… but she knew he wasn’t trying to evade her. She could feel her own ache echoed in him. ~ I hope this doesn’t just make it worse… ~ Then when he spoke, her fears were confirmed, despite the kind tone of his sweet voice.   “Bree,” he said gently, “I never went anywhere. I was never more than one tap away.” He brought his hand up to his combadge, fingertips hovering over it symbolically. “You were the one who went away.”   His words burned into Bree like a branding iron. She had been so eager to blame him…. it had seemed so easy to lay all the pain, the misunderstandings at his feet. But he was right… and she didn’t know how to explain. The sense of abandonment… the feeling that he didn’t care if she was there or not… his strange silences… ~ Bree, you knew what kind of man he was that first night you danced with him! He’s more of a man than that… how could you expect him to come chasing after you like some lovesick teenager? ~ She reprimanded herself, but no words would come. None that were adequate anyway. So, she just slowly shook her head, still fighting the tears that were becoming almost impossible to hold back, wanting so badly to deny the truth, but knowing that she could not. After a few moments, he gathered himself to continue.   “I... I saw you, Bree,” he said, raising his eyes again. “After DS5. You were so... distant with me at the debrief. And I wondered why you didn't come to see me in sickbay. I didn't understand. But I swallowed my pride and I came looking for you, to talk things through. And I found you. On top of a mountain, in the holodeck. Sharing the view with the Captain.”   The anger she felt rising in this wonderful man, the one she had chosen first, stung Bree almost unbearably. Of course, she couldn’t blame him… but…   “Olen…” she said brokenly, almost whispering. “I… knew you were there. I started to come after you, but… I was… afraid you wouldn’t… want me… I guess I was just being selfish…” But it seemed that his anger was giving him the strength he needed to say what had been on his heart, so, she trailed off again, and with a small open gesture, bade him speak on.   “I don't get mad often, Bree," he said. "But... but, you know what, I've learned to live with it. And I don't blame you in the least. He's the dashing space captain, after all. I'm just some neurotic bookworm with a crappy office.”   Now, it was Bree’s turn to feel the rising tide of anger. ~ Does he really think I’m that shallow? ~ She felt her eyes flash through the moisture gathering in them. But, to his credit, he seemed to catch himself before she could respond.   “I'm sorry, that's unfair,” he continued. He blew out a long breath; as if the expression of emotion was wearing him out. “It's just, to my mind, you'd made your choice clear back then. I needed you, Bree. I think you needed me too. But instead, you ran directly to the Captain, and left me to talk to Jack Daniels. That's how I saw it, at least. When I saw you and him on Ivor Prime, at least I didn't have to wonder if I'd lost you any more. Now my only question is... where do we go from here?”   Bree gathered herself in turn, as Olen had. She took a deep, steadying breath.   “Olen, I hadn’t made any choices. I didn’t feel like I’d been given any clear choices. I guess that with humans and Betazoids both, our hearts don’t always bother to consult with our heads,” she said, a slightly bitter little smile sneaking through her defenses. Then she sighed, remembering so clearly the words that had made her love him, barely two eternal weeks ago, when she had turned to him as a safe shelter from the storm that Edward, an Alpha Wolf in dress whites, had sparked in her unprepared heart.   “You once told me that everyone aboard this vessel is searching for something, whether they know it or not. That no one would warp off into unknown space unless there's some kind of hunger, some kind of need at their core. You said that the chances are, one day, we’ll find that what we’ve been looking for was with us all along. I guess we’ll just have to keep following our hearts, into the stars, wherever they lead. But know this,” Bree added gently, but firmly. “I never, ever meant to hurt you. I still don’t. If you have made your own choice, I respect that. But I will always care for you, Olen.”   "All I want, Bree, is for you to be happy," Olen replied.   Bree nodded. “The same goes for you, Olen.” But time had not stopped, no matter how much Bree might have liked for it to. She still had work to do, she still needed to get back to the Bridge and report to the command staff. She sighed again, and shook her head sadly… but she found some comfort in turning to her first love, the most solid constant in her life. Her lovely explorer, the mighty Champlain, was calling to her… but this time, she would not run. Bree was tired of running.   “Olen, I guess we’d better get back to work for now. I still have to report to the Bridge… but… we’ll talk again… won’t we?” she said, allowing her sense of vulnerability to come through in her voice unashamed.   (Reply Olen) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Personal Quarters – CO Captain Edward Wolfe - 1417)   Edward sat in his favorite chair and steepled his fingers as he listened to an example of 21st Century music. He had tried to get back to business as usual, but every attempt on his part just dealt him more anguish. He couldn't put where he was... what he had been behind him. It gnawed at him slowly and surely and made him question what he was doing and who he was.   [You know the way that things go, when what you fight for starts to fall...] intoned the music, mirroring his mood and present state of mine.   A myriad of issues, problems and thoughts flooded Edward's mind. He was 'dead' for all intents and purposes, or at least a steady approximation of what death must be. That was bad enough, but now the issues with Bree weighed heavily on him. There was a key attraction, a desire, on both their parts. There was a level of compatibility as well. However, she was of a lower rank and that complicated things. While there was no prohibition in Starfleet, it was still often frowned upon.   [And in that fuzzy picture, the writing stands out on the wall. So clearly on the wall...]   Edward sighed deeply as he thought about the mission ahead and where it could lead. More pain? More death? This was what he signed up for and while it caused him no end to insecurity and difficulty since his last experience, he knew that he had to perform. People's lives were dependent on it. What's more, there was no way he could raise Starfleet Command out here... out in the middle of nowhere.   [Send out the signal deep and loud, And in this place, can you reassure me With a touch, a smile while the cradles burning All the while the world is turning to noise Oh the more that its surrounding us The more that it destroys Turn up the signal Wipe out the noise =^=Lieutenant Frazier to Captain Wolfe. Ready to report at your convenience, Sir. =^=   Edward shook off his fears and doubts, at least for the moment, "I'll be up in a moment Lieutenant. Make sure recommendations are both on the PADD and I'd like a short verbal. Wolfe out."   >(USS Champlain - Bridge - CO - Captain Edward Wolfe - 1432)   Edward strode onto the bridge and nodded at the crew assembled there. His face was a mask, showing his normal impassivity and directness.   "Alright Lieutenant, lets hear it," stated Edward as he walked towards the centre seat... his seat.   (Reply Frazier, any) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain – Ops Office - ACops Ensign Hawk - 1417)   After leaving the OPS office, Hawk followed Janeway, who led him to the Security Office. Janeway entered his code and entered the office, where David followed. Hawk watched as the Security Chief sat behind his desk and then motioned for David to sit. Hawk sat down as Janeway typed something onto his computer. He then turned the screen around so David could see all the information the ship had on the planet up to date.   "Now. We're here to decide on the necessary security precautions that need to be put in place for the covert team," Janeway said.   "I agree," David commented quickly.   "The information that Mr. Sullivan has presented us with is in-valuable as if the information Mr. Fiacie has. The 32 hour cycle period in each day may cause issues for certain members of the teams - members that aren’t specifically trained in security or proper survival training. The suspected Cold war is another problem and we need to decide on how to deal with these threats, Any input Ensign?" Janeway asked.   "Of course, Sir," Hawk began. "First thing to remember is that even though the covert team is gonna consist of about six people, we should stick to parties of only two.” David paused and caught his breath. "When anyone sees a group of people, especially people that no one will recognize, they immediately suspect something. If we stick just to two people, no matter how many parties we send, it won't cause suspicion."   David stopped, waiting to see what the Security Chief thought of his idea.   (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Brian) (USS Champlain – Ops Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1418) “Olen, I hadn’t made any choices,” said Bree. “I didn’t feel like I’d been given any clear choices. I guess that with humans and Betazoids both, our hearts don’t always bother to consult with our heads.” Rhinehart nodded. 'Choice' had been a poor selection of word. It implied that her actions had been rational, and cognizant, when he knew very well that they had not. He allowed himself his own bitter smile to match Bree's. “You once told me that everyone aboard this vessel is searching for something,” she continued, “whether they know it or not. That no one would warp off into unknown space unless there's some kind of hunger, some kind of need at their core. You said that the chances are, one day, we’ll find that what we’ve been looking for was with us all along. I guess we’ll just have to keep following our hearts, into the stars, wherever they lead. But know this,” Bree added. “I never, ever meant to hurt you. I still don’t. If you have made your own choice, I respect that. But I will always care for you, Olen.” His eyes lost focus as he recalled the words he had spoken to her, listened as they were repeated back to him, in echoing chorus with the memory. His gaze flicked back, surprised, alarmed, even shocked. She had remembered it all, down to the last detail, practically verbatim. The words had been spoken only weeks before – but so much had happened since then, they seemed of another age. But she had really remembered. So used was he to feeling invisible, inaudible, inconsequential... He swallowed hard. His 'choice', as she put it, was far from made. “Olen, I guess we’d better get back to work for now,” she said. “I still have to report to the Bridge… but… we’ll talk again… won’t we?” Reality sprang back into shape around him with a tangible snap, and the moment, frozen between them, thawed. A thousand replies formed and dissipated, billowing and rolling like smoke in his mind. He was uncertain of what would come out of his mouth, even at the moment he began to speak. “I would certainly hope so, Brianna,” he said, softly. “Souls such as yours are rare... and precious. And yes, you're right, of course. I didn't mean to distract you from your duty... and I have a Hawk to track down.” He stood from the seat, smoothing his uniform, suddenly awkward again. He bowed slightly from the waist, for some reason, before turning and walking towards the door. He paused as it swished open, turning back towards the desk she still sat behind. “Perhaps... we might look in on Derrick – together – later on. That is, if you're not too busy?” he said. “Maybe we could get a bite or... or a drink, or... you know, if you want... that is... um.” He tried to keep the hopeful, adolescent tone out of his voice, the question hanging. (Reply Bree) “Very well,” he replied with a smile. He took a step back out into the corridor and let the door swish closed again. He stood still, the panel mere inches from the tip of his nose, uncertain of how he should feel. Dimly aware of the smile he wore, he decided that it pretty well summed things up. He turned and walked towards the turbolift, the same bounce in his step that he had felt after that night at the party. (Reply none) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Bridge - ACSO, Ens. Sam Fiacie - 1419)   Sam looked around the bridge from the console she had just stepped up too. In truth this was only her second time on the bridge for 'official' business. She had been on the bridge a couple of times before the launch but only twice since they set of for 'deep exploration', this being on of those times. Although unsure why she was on the bridge when she was meant to be co-operating with her science department, which she didn’t think she would be able to do that well from her current location.   =^=Please be advised that Ensign Smith did not take into account underground water sources. As a result, Ensign Fiancie's assessment of 65% water on the planet is correct. I'm glad to see you're all double-checking each other's information. Do continue. We need to know the population density and well as standard temperature zones. Please also do an analysis working with the anthropology division as well as the historians to see the most likely zones for civilization birth and growth. Keep the reports coming and keep up the good work. d'Kla out. =^=   Sam gritted her teeth as she heard the Lieutenant mispronounce her name to the whole of the science department and seemingly Ensign Smith who had received the same message. Sam stuck her head back down in her console and began several multi-phasic planetary sweeps so she could get a better idea of the planets population density. This would allow the command staff to make better decisions on going planet side, If she was made to leave the ship she would do so of course. But she wasn’t going to volunteer herself for the task. That reminded her; she needed to speak with Chief Petty Officer, Ree. She tapped her comm. badge.   "Ensign Fiacie to CPO Branda Ree. I need to speak with you momentarily please don’t leave your post until I arrive. Fiacie out" she then closed the comm. link giving Ree no time to respond. She quickly checked internal sensors and was vaguely aware of Lt. Frazier walking onto the bridge. She heard the mention of the conflicting water reports, waited at her station while the computer checked for Ree, and listened in.   "I also think I want to get Lieutenant Commander Mason off this ship for awhile. She has earned some field time. Lieutenant Ya'turith can have the Conn in our absence. I'll be in constant contact with the ship, as I'll be leading the official First Contact greeting party once we get some intel from you. I want the Lieutenant Commander to go with you," Captain Wolfe said, Sam looked to the FO her face didn’t look pleased with the CO's decision. Sam waited until she felt it was the right moment to approach the three command officers and said,   "Sirs... The water discrepancy has been cleared up by Lt. d'Kla's'turr. Ensign Smith didn’t account for the underground water sources so. In fact, my initial assessment of 65% water o the planet is correct. I hope that information can be of some use to you." She said to none of the command staff in particular. She quickly hide a smile, She knew she was right all-along, if d'Kla had given her enough time she would have proved it herself. ~Ah well, I'm right~   (Reply Bree, Mason, Wolfe) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Science Labs - CSO - Lieutenant d'Kla's'turr - 1420)   d'Kla cursed under his breath as he shuffled around in the lab. His pain intensified as he moved, but he also knew that movement was necessary and expected. There was no way that he was going to show weakness or disability. There was no way he was going to admit to anyone that he was in need of physical aid of any type. There was no way he was going to admit defeat. He knew, with no uncertainty, that if he was on the Coridanite homeworld, they would have already disposed of his spent carcass.   d'Kla looked down at the monitors and sighed and opened the hail to his department and to Ensign Smith. "Please be advised that Ensign Smith did not take into account underground water sources. As a result, Ensign Fiancie's assessment of 65% water on the planet is correct. I'm glad to see you're all double-checking each other's information. Do continue. We need to know population density and well as standard temperate zones. Please also do an analysis working with the anthropology division as well as the historians to see the most likely zones for civilization birth and growth. Keep the reports coming and keep up the good work. d'Kla out."   (Reply any working with science) (Posted by Jeff) USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO – Ensign Gabriele Suvik-Bertorelli - 1420)   Paul looked puzzled. "Command and Holograms? That's an odd combination. I can see why they would want to get into the command systems, and also affect environmental, but Holographic systems. , what do you think they wanted? " “My theory is that they tried to get to command functions via a route that might not be so well guarded. As for holographic systems, I don’t know. Perhaps they wanted some R&R after trying to hack the computer….” Gabe smiled wanly at Paul. “I’ve only investigated the first isolinear chip so far. Its slow going.” “Right, do you think we need Chuss or anyone else to help out? " Gabe nodded. Bird seemed to be on the ball and ahead of the young Vulcanoid. ~Perhaps he should be in command rather than me…~   “I think I will need to get Chuss off the night shift and will hopefully get Teak, er, I mean T’Kusilaya on to the job as well.”   (Reply Paul)   “Exactly. When are you due to go to the planet?”   (Reply Paul)   “Ok, until then, I will need your help on this. Can you carry one looking for isolinear malfunctions? It may involve you doing a manual sweep; I hope you don’t mind crawling through Jeffries tubes.”   (Reply Paul) (Posted by Matt) (USS Champlain - Sec Chief's Office - Security Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1421)   "Of course, Sir," Hawk began. "First thing to remember is that even though the covert team is gonna consist of about six people, we should stick to parties of only two.” David paused and caught his breath. "When anyone sees a group of people, especially people that no one will recognize, they immediately suspect something. If we stick just to two people, no matter how many parties we send, it won't cause suspicion." Jono nodded, "A good precautionary measure." He said while noting it down. He was as much testing Hawk as he was discussing details with him, He wanted to be able to tell Bree what the young man was able at, and what he wasn’t so able at. He also wanted to make Hawk feel part of the Champlain Family, to do that he needed to be involved. "However, As we do not know how the natives will react to parties of two. What happens if the covert team beams down, and there are people of 6 swarming around everywhere, and you can’t see a smaller group? You - as I understand Lt. Fraziers plan, Will be leading security advisor on that team. Don't take this as, a test, But what would you then advise? I just want to make sure you know what you are doing, that's all," Jono said, smiling at Hawk.   Of course, things like this weren’t usually thought at the academy and most of it was just plain common sense, but did Ensign Hawk have any sense about him. How well did he react under-pressure? Jono had decided he wanted to know all these things before getting onto actually planning any proper security precautions with the ensign.   (Reply Hawk) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Sec Chiefs Office - AOPS, Ensign Hawk - 1422)   David listened after giving his first thought to Janeway.   "A good precautionary messure," Janeway said.  Hawk noticed Janeway had a sort of smirk on his face but didn't know what to make of it.  "However, As we do not know how the natives will react to partys of two. What happens if the covert team beams down and there are people of 6 swannig around everywhere and you cant see a smaller group. You, as I understand Lt. Fraziers plan, will be leading security advisor on that team. Dont take this as a test.  But what would you then advise. I just want to make sure you know what you are doing, that's all"   David thought for a brief moment, looking into the question to see if it was a trick question or one brought up just to continue looking at unexpected outcomes.   "Well, Sir, as with anything you do whether its helming the ship or walking into your quarters, there are always things that are unexpected that could happen.  Once we have actual pics of the planet surface and the people, we should see how big their groups are.  My suggestion is just a broad general suggestion.  Although another idea would be to stick with that and immediately try to infiltrate another group.  The best way to get undercover and find out things about their community is to use the cover that we are from a town on the other side of the planet and we're thinking about moving there."     Hawk paused before making it seem like he was rambling.  He sat there allowing himself a slight smirk, and waiting for the Chief of Security to take that all in and see what he thinks of it.    (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Brian) USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO – Ensign Paul Bird- 1422)   “Right, do you think we need Chuss or anyone else to help out?” Gabe nodded. Bird seemed to be on the ball and ahead of the young Vulcanoid.    “I think I will need to get Chuss off the night shift and will hopefully get Teak, er, I mean T’Kusilaya on to the job as well.”   Paul noted the near use of a nickname , and decided he really had to get to know these people better , but he responded to Gabe's question " Great , the more heads the better on this one "   “Exactly. When are you due to go to the planet?”   " We wont be there for a couple of days , and there's no useable information at present until we get closer , nobody said anything , but there is bound to be more meetings as we get closer "   “Ok, until then, I will need your help on this. Can you carry one looking for isolinear malfunctions? It may involve you doing a manual sweep; I hope you don’t mind crawling through Jeffries tubes.”   Paul thought that Gabe almost jumped at the belly laugh that he let out " My Grandfather , back on the family cargo ship , used to tell me that I was born in a Jeffrey tube ,so no I don't mind , It's just going to take so long to track down every one "   (Reply Matt)   " Aye , aye Sir , I'll get onto it right away "   (Reply Matt) (Posted by Paul) (USS Champlain - Sickbay - CMO - Doctor Mor'rel - 1423)   Mor'rel labored, examining the basics and more advanced methods of temporary cosmetic surgery. Logic dictated that it would only be a matter of time before he would be called upon for this 'secret' mission. Logic also conflicted though as to its necessity and that concerned him. He only needed someone to give the order and the basic racial schematics and he could begin. He had the instruments, necessary product, and other items ready for work. He finally tapped his comm badge.   "Lieutenant Frazier, this is Doctor Mor'rel. I am assuming that the information for the cosmetic surgery will be coming to me soon. I am ready, but need the racial templates. Do you have an estimated time that I can expect the necessary data?" asked Mor'rel evenly.   (Reply Frazier)   "I see. I hope Ensign Henna-Star reports in soon. We have a few other items to discuss prior to the mission," stated Mor'rel before closing his channel.   (Reply Frazier, Henna-Star) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain - Sec Chiefs Office - Security Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1424)   "Well, Sir, as with anything you do whether its helming the ship or walking into your quarters, there are always things that are unexpected that could happen. Once we have actual pics of the planet surface and the people, we should see how big their groups are. My suggestion is just a broad general suggestion. Although another idea would be to stick with that and immediately, try to infiltrate another group. The best way to get undercover and find out things about their community is to use the cover that we are from a town on the other side of the planet and we're thinking about moving there." Hawk said, Janeway nodded and then noted the rather cocky smile on the Ensigns face.   He smiled slightly when he realized what department Hawk was in. ~Bree not be having with that Mr. ~ If Jono had learned anything about Bree, he was sure it was that. "Very good."   "Now onto weaponry for the covert team, As it seems Lt. Frazier doesn’t want any more security personnel apart from you going down with her. You'll be in charge of distribution and use of this. I will be advising palm phasers and other well-hidden weaponry, as this a covert team we don’t want to be attracting too much attention by taking too much technology down with you. But at the same time, we can’t leave you defenseless. Are there weaponry you feel the covert team needs to be taking down?"   (Reply Hawk) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain - Security Office - ACOPS, Ensign Hawk - 1425)   "Very good," Janeway replied after David had laid out his ideas. "Now onto weaponry for the covert team, As it seems Lt. Frazier doesn’t want any more security personnel apart from you going down with her. You'll be in charge of distribution and use of this. I will be advising palm phasers and other well-hidden weaponry, as this a covert team we don’t want to be attracting too much attention by taking too much technology down with you. But at the same time, we can’t leave you defenseless. Are there weaponry you feel the covert team needs to be taking down?"   David paused for a moment. ~That’s a good question, ~ he thought. ~But anything more and we risk accidentally leaving something and contaminating the planet. Although it would be nice to have a small demolitions pack, just in case. ~   "No, Sir," Hawk said. "I think that covers what we will probably need while keeping it light and compact."   David sat there, excited about the mission, and with the same butterflies that come before every big mission for him.    (Reply Janeway) (Posted by Brian) (USS Champlain - Holodeck 5 - FO - Lieutenant Commander Ulia Mason - 1427)   Ulia scrambled up the rock face to the plateau. Sweat poured off her brow, her uniform was disheveled and dirty. She felt alive. In a single and graceful movement, she propelled herself onto the face, in the middle of a group of Romulans. One fired at her instantly and she dodged the fateful arc of the fire. Flipping herself in the air she landed with aplomb on top of one of the offending individuals and stepped hard on his face, which turned into a mass of green goo. Her adrenal gland began working overtime as she moved and kicked outwardly, kicking another in the stomach and grabbing her phaser from her outstretched hands. At this point, the fight turned into a firefight... with Ulia moving gracefully, killing, maiming, and otherwise creating havoc. She had modified the holodeck safety features, preferring the risk of heaving stunning to no risk at all.   She felt alive.   Alive considering the 3rd Officer invading her job, her life...   Alive considering the problems she'd had during the first mission...   Alive considering all she wanted to do was go back to Geneva...   Ulia had pretty much decided she hated it here... she hated the Champlain... she hated being its FO... she hated everything having to do with Deep Space. She wanted the station. But right now, she wanted to kick some ass that wouldn't get her court marshaled.   With that thought in mind, and after firing a few more times, she looked around at the green blood and bodies around her. She'd taken them all out. Sighing she looked around and prepared to start level two.   =^=Lieutenant Commander? Can you report to the bridge please? We need to finalize for this mission. Thank you. Wolfe out. =^=   Ulia peered out into the distance, brow furrowed for an instant before shrugging. "Holodeck, end program.” Her next set of kills would have to wait. First off to her quarters for clean clothing, then to the bridge.   (USS Champlain - Bridge - FO - Lieutenant Commander Ulia Mason - 1434)   Ulia walked on the bridge only to see that Frazier was already there giving her report to the Captain. ~Little brown-noser, ~ thought Ulia as she took her seat and listened without speaking.   (Reply any, none) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain - Sickbay - CMO - Doctor Mor'rel - 1427)   Mor'rel noted the entrance of the young woman into Sickbay and nodded to her curtly when she explained the fact that she'd become lost on her way to sickbay. This was not an unusual occurrence at first on a Galaxy Class starship and Mor'rel doubted that she would take time to acclimatize and become used to the full layout of the vessel.   "I have received notification about the bridge meeting and about the task of surgically altering Away Team members. Am I to understand that you are accompanying the team to the surface?" asked Mor'rel, his voice as neutral as his face.   (Reply Henna-Star)   Mor'rel nodded, "I understand. You do know that we are currently short staffed in Sickbay. In fact, doctors and nurses are in fairly short supply. Hardly surprising given the war currently in progress. Please do bear this in mind." Mor'rel could scarcely stand to lose a member of his department and he was concerned about their safety as a result.   (Reply Henna-Star)   "What do you understand of this species? What changes do you envision taking place in terms of the Away Team? Are there going to be any 'racial' difficulties with any of the team members in terms of specific accoutrements we have to hide?"   (Reply Henna-Star) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain - Sickbay – ACMO Ensign Henna-star - 1428) Henna listened to what Mor’rel had to say to her. "I have received notification about the bridge meeting and about the task of surgically altering Away Team members. Am I to understand that you are accompanying the team to the surface?" he said to her. "Yes, Sir. I will be joining the away team." She responded. Mor'rel nodded, "I understand. You do know that we are currently short staffed in Sickbay. In fact, doctors and nurses are in fairly short supply. Hardly surprising given the war currently in progress. Please do bear this in mind." Mor’rel said it in such a way that Henna could see that he was concerned for her safety. For the first time she feared for her own safety. ~I’m sure it will be fine….. hopefully~ She thought to herself. "I will remember that, but I will be fine. I can look after myself." She said trying to reassure herself. "What do you understand of this species? What changes do you envision taking place in terms of the Away Team? Are there going to be any 'racial' difficulties with any of the team members in terms of specific accoutrements we have to hide?" He questioned her. Obviously wanting to know what was in store for his newest recruit. " Well, Sir, at the moment there are still no definite images of what and who these species actually are or what they are like. Obviously one of the main changes that is going to have to happen is changing my skin colour if they aren’t green. Ensign Bird and Ensign Hawk are both going to have to hide their facial hair unless the species are hairy then everyone else will have to gain some hair. The transformations have to be long last and withstand different climate changes in case the unexpected happens." (Reply Mor’rel) (Posted by Becky) (USS Champlain - Security Office - Sec Chief, Lt. Jono Janeway - 1428)   "No, Sir," Hawk said. "I think that covers what we will probably need while keeping it light and compact."   Jono nodded, "Yes. I think that about covers things for now. However, I would like to meet up with you in a holodeck so we can run through a few simulations. I'll give you a call when I'm ready for you, OK?"   (Reply Hawk)   Before Janeway could rep he was interrupted by the counsellor, =^=Counsellor Rhinehart to Ensign Hawk,=^=   (Reply Hawk)   =^=Please report to Counseling on Deck 12, ASAP. =^=   (Reply Hawk)   Jono stood up as Hawk finished his conversation with Rhinehart, "Well it seems you are needed elsewhere. I can finish up here. I'll call you for those simulations at some point before we reach the planet." He said as he moved around his desk and began walking the Ensign to the door.   (Reply Hawk) (Posted by Jono) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 1429) Rhinehart scooped the steaming cup of tea from the replicator hatch, and gingerly carried it across the office to his desk. He took his seat and quickly accessed Ensign Hawk's file from the desk terminal. Scanning the details, he found it had in common the same thing he had observed in the vast majority of Starfleet personnel files; it was unremarkable in its remark ability. Ens (JG) Hawk, D.J. sounded like a highly capable officer with a great deal of potential, and very few obvious points to begin with. Rhinehart sat back in his seat and tried to recall his impressions of the man from Bree's office... Yet all he could remember with any solidity was admiring the man's beard. Time to see what lay beneath. He took a mouthful of his tea before tapping his combadge. “Counsellor Rhinehart to Ensign Hawk,” he said. (Reply Hawk) “Please report to Counseling on Deck 12, ASAP.” (Reply Hawk) “Very well, Ensign. Rhinehart out.” (Reply Hawk) He took another sip of his tea, and signed contentedly, briefly recalling his fascinating recent talk with Gabriele. By comparison, this was probably going to be simplicity itself. (Reply Hawk) (Posted by Noel) (USS Champlain - Bridge – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier - 1430)   Bree arrived on the Bridge, PADD in hand, in time to see Edward stride to HIS chair. She could feel the turmoil in him, but the impassive mask on his face showed her without a doubt that Captain Edward Wolfe was back in business. She smiled ~ He’ll be OK… ~   She glanced around the Bridge, and noticed that Robert was gone. ~ Must be off working on clearing up those discrepancies we found… ~ She knew her colleague was competent, and she was most curious about what he would find… but now, Edward was speaking to her.   "Alright Lieutenant, lets hear it," he stated crisply, with his usual directness.   Bree fired up her PADD. “Preliminary scans indicate a standard Minshara Class planet, about 13,000 kilometers in diameter, normal Earthlike atmospheric composition, 65% water coverage. We have received conflicting reports of 45 % water coverage… we are working on clearing that up, but considering other data, I think the first report most likely. Temperate, with mountain ranges and rain forests. Solar cycle 32 hours… that could present a challenge to the covert team. We’ll know more as we get closer,” she commented, looking up briefly, then returning to her report.   “Mr. Sullivan has detected what appears to be a stockpile of weapons on board a module-built space station similar to those in use in the 21st century on Earth. According to her assessment, no threat is posed to us at this time, but the weapons stockpile might indicate a cold war in progress. I’ll be digging into the history of this sector, and crosschecking my findings with known cultures, to formulate some theories about the likelihood of that, among other cultural details. As soon as we get close enough, we will do further studies into the appearance and culture of the population. Mr. Sullivan has suggested an approach vector that should allow us to study the planet at a closer range without being detected.”   “As to the personnel who are willing to serve on an advanced covert exploration team, if our data indicates that one can be made to blend in, my recommendations are as follows: myself, Mr. Hawk for backup and security, Mr. Bird for engineering, Mr. Henna-star as for medical, and Chief Banda Ree for science, pending your approval, Sir. Mr. Hawk has already volunteered. I have spoken to all the rest save Mr. Ree, and they are willing. I will contact Mr. Ree as soon as we are done here. Oh, and, ah, we seem to be having some problems in Engineering… nothing too serious yet, but Mr. Suvik is on it. End of report.”   With that, Bree looked up from her PADD and fell silent, awaiting Wolfe’s response.   (Reply Wolfe, Mason, any on Bridge) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Sickbay - CMO - Doctor Mor'rel - 1430)   Mor'rel listened and nodded. He could see that the young woman was slightly shaken, and that was no surprise. He nodded slowly.   "We need images. We cannot proceed on guesswork. The consequences would be disastrous if we were to get this wrong. As for your skin pigment, that can easily be changed, at least temporarily. You may need to get pigment injections regularly, however, otherwise the green is dark enough that it will start to increasingly 'seep through' the repigmentation process," replied Mor'rel, "Currently we have too many 'perhaps' or 'maybe' statements. We cannot prep without concrete representation of one of these persons."   (Reply Henna-Star)   "What I need from you for now is to prep the triage centre and ensure it’s stocked. We may need to beam team members up quickly in order to tend to their wounds. I also will need an inventory," stated Mor'rel, "I'll start in the antiseptics, you begin with the bone knitting tools. Please also check in on Lieutenant Delzar."   (Reply Henna-Star) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain - Bridge - CO - Captain Edward Wolfe - 1433)   Edward sat and listened to the Lieutenant's report. There was no doubt in his mind that she had done a great deal of work. While Frazier was giving her report, he noticed Mason walk in and take her seat. There was even more of an air of coolness about her than usual as she walked past Frazier. Edward had no doubt that the Lieutenant felt it too. He resisted the urge to shake his head and sigh.   "I'm concerned at this point, Lieutenant, with the fact that your team is very... young. That isn't a criticism or a shot; I agree they need to get their feet wet at some point. But to have so many people at this time with little direct field experience with First Contact and with covert operations troubles me," stated Edward honestly and directly. He could see, in the corner of his eye, Mason nodding. ~There's a shock that she agrees with that assessment. ~   (Reply Frazier)   Edward nodded slowly as he looked at her, "I guess I need to know what prep work they've engaged in so they're able to pull this off. I'm not talking about cosmetic surgery either. This kind of mission has to be deal with very carefully; otherwise, we court death and disaster with our people. Two things I'm not overly enthused with. How have they been trained or will they be before we are ready to go down? Besides the Academy training that is, because I'm sorry, it doesn't count for much out here." Edward's voice was level and calm. He didn't mean this to be a challenge, an indictment, or anything else. He was just being plain and honest. For all he knew training was being accounted for, but he saw no evidence of it as of yet. He knew first hand how these missions could go wrong.   (Reply Frazier)   "I also think I want to get Lieutenant Commander Mason off this ship for awhile. She has earned some field time. Lieutenant Ya'turith can have the Conn in our absence. I'll be in constant contact with the ship, as I'll be leading the official First Contact greeting party once we get some intel from you. I want the Lieutenant Commander to go with you," Edward said trying to suppress a smile. He had no doubt in his mind at all that Mason would rather kill them both at the sound of this than anything else, but he hoped that somehow the two women would find common ground. He also knows that the Lieutenant Commander had more experience from her time on Starbase Geneva, and with diverse races, than anyone else on the ship except for a handful of individuals. He wasn't sending d’Kla, as he wasn't in the best of shape. He had to deal with the official landing party. Janeway had to come with him, as it would be unseemly for an Ensign to lead his security contingent on a First Contact meeting.   (Reply Frazier, any on bridge) (Posted by Jeff)   (USS Champlain - Bridge – 3O Lt. Bree Frazier  - 1435)   As Bree had been giving her verbal report to Edward, Commander Mason had arrived on the Bridge. Bree had felt a lot she had as a kid back home, when a sudden storm blew up from the Gulf over the bayous… but frankly, she had no idea why. She respected Mason, and the woman’s obvious dislike for her was something of a surprise. Just because she could sense emotions in others didn’t always mean she understood them. Bree hadn’t seen much Mason her since the mission a week ago, but it was real plain that all was not well with Commander Personality, especially where Bree was concerned! But, Bree had business to tend to, so she had blown it off to the best of her ability, once again grateful for Edward’s professional, impassive demeanor. ~ If he can do it, so can I… ~   When Bree finished her report, it was Edward’s turn.   "I'm concerned at this point, Lieutenant, with the fact that your team is very... young. That isn't a criticism or a shot; I agree they need to get their feet wet at some point. But to have so many people at this time with little direct field experience with First Contact and with covert operations troubles me," stated Edward honestly and directly. Bree noticed Mason nodding, and she nodded at both of them in return.   “Good point, Sir. Yes, they are young. I’ve had First Contact training, and Mr. Hawk has more practical experience than many of the others, but it’s true I’ve never done anything like this before as a Starfleet officer. Still, most of this crew IS pretty green, and a young team might bond easily on something like this… if they’re well led,” she returned, with a slight wry smile. She hoped Edward would understand that she said the last both as an assertion of cautious confidence on her part, and as a validation of his very legitimate concerns.   (Reply Wolfe, Mason)   Edward nodded slowly as he looked at her, "I guess I need to know what prep work they've engaged in so they're able to pull this off. I'm not talking about cosmetic surgery either. This kind of mission has to be deal with very carefully; otherwise, we court death and disaster with our people. Two things I'm not overly enthused with. How have they been trained or will they be before we are ready to go down? Besides the Academy training that is, because I'm sorry, it doesn't count for much out here." Edward's voice was level and calm. Bree could sense that this was not meant as an attack, and that he was only stating his concerns honestly, for which she respected him all the more. She nodded again, more soberly this time.   “We’re not close enough yet to get any decent snapshots of these people, but when we are, I’ll be able to tell you more about that. Meanwhile, I already have enough to start work on some theories about the effect of rapid technological advancement of a global culture… I’ll be getting on that right away. There should be enough in the historical logs to give me a starting point, Sir. As far as training goes, I agree with you… no amount of Academy training can substitute for experience on the streets. I learned a lot more about the dynamics of people groups before I entered the Academy that I did while I was there! I think I can get my team ready in time… I’ve asked for an entrance psych eval on one team member, and I’ll check on the rest at your request, Sir.” Bree did not want to bring Hawk’s name up specifically on the Bridge, as her personal concerns about him were not severe enough to justify risking embarrassing him by singling him out that way. After all, they had been just as concerned about her ability to perform before her first away mission… and justifiably so.   (Reply Wolfe, Mason)   Edward continued. "I also think I want to get Lieutenant Commander Mason off this ship for awhile. She has earned some field time. Lieutenant Ya'turith can have the Conn in our absence. I'll be in constant contact with the ship, as I'll be leading the official First Contact greeting party once we get some intel from you. I want the Lieutenant Commander to go with you," Edward said. Bree could feel him trying to suppress a smile. ~ Fink… ~ But in her heart, she thought it was a good idea too. There was plenty Bree could still learn from this unhappy, but competent, courageous woman. ~ Maybe I can get a few answers on more that one front… ~   “Very good, Sir,” Bree relied, nodding respectfully at Commander Thundercloud as she suppressed a smile of her own. “That will give us an even six, three men and three women. If we discover that moving as couples makes up less conspicuous in this culture, it could be helpful on that score, too.” ~Wonder whether she’ll pick Bird or Ree? Hawk is mine…. ~ The pictures forming in Bree’s mind almost made her laugh, but once again, she managed to maintain her self control… Then she listened as the commanders of the Champlain responded.   (Reply Wolfe, Mason)   Bree was about to ask if she was dismissed when Fiacie approached the command team.   "Sirs... The water discrepancy has been cleared up by Lt. d'Kla's'turr. Ensign Smith didn’t account for the underground water sources. So, in fact, my initial assessment of 65% water on the planet is correct. I hope that information can be of some use to you," she said to none of the command staff in particular. Bree could sense Fiacie’s gloating attitude, not unlike some high school kid who wanted to impress the Science teacher with her brilliance, at Robert’s expense. At this stage, a little conflicting data was inevitable, and it seemed unfair to Bree to lay Robert out in public like that. She did her best not to bristle… the woman hadn’t really done anything wrong… but she didn’t trust herself to speak, so she just nodded. ~ She REALLY needs to do some growing up… ~   (Reply Wolfe, Mason, Fiacie)   Bree was grateful that, for the moment at least, Edward seemed willing to consider her recommendations for covert team personnel, with the addition of Mason. Fiacie was a good Science officer, but perhaps not ready for this kind of mission… it wasn’t personal, but Bree did not relish the idea of taking with Fiacie with her under cover. ~ Mason will be quite enough for me to deal with… ~   “If that is all, Sir, then I’ll get on with organizing our data and doing my research,” Bree said. “When will our next planning session take place?” Bree hoped that all concerned would be present, and that they would manage to maintain some semblance of order…   (Reply Wolfe, Mason) (Posted by Connie) (USS Champlain - Bridge - CO - Captain Edward Wolfe - 1442)   Edward looked at Brie for a moment and waited for her reaction to his statement. He wasn't trying to upset anyone, but he had legitimate and very real concerns.   “Good point, Sir. Yes, they are young. I’ve had First Contact training, and Mr. Hawk has more practical experience than many of the others, but it’s true I’ve never done anything like this before as a Starfleet officer. Still, most of this crew IS pretty green, and a young team might bond easily on something like this… if they’re well led,” she returned, with a slight wry smile.    Edward nodded for an instant looking at her cautiously. He could understand what she was saying, but she was also very, very new. "I'm all for bonding Lieutenant. However, if given the choice between bonding and avoiding disaster, I'll always go for avoiding disaster. And that isn't a commentary on yours or anyone else's competency; it’s just that a certain amount of experience is often helpful. The holodecks can only do so much and so can the academy. This is a different world." Edward also felt a momentary nagging of concern about the woman. The last thing he wanted was her to get harmed in the line of duty. He quickly put this aside. She was a Starfleet officer first and foremost; his personal feelings could not become an issue.   (Reply Frazier iyw)   Ulia looked at Wolfe for a moment and stated, her voice dripping in sarcasm, "Oh yes, as we've learned recently, disaster is most assuredly bad." Edward decided to let that comment pass.   Edward nodded slowly as he looked at her, "I guess I need to know what prep work they've engaged in so they're able to pull this off. I'm not talking about cosmetic surgery either. This kind of mission has to be deal with very carefully; otherwise, we court death and disaster with our people. Two things I'm not overly enthused with. How have they been trained or will they be before we are ready to go down? Besides the Academy training that is, because I'm sorry, it doesn't count for much out here." Edward's voice was level and calm. Bree could sense that this was not meant as an attack, and that he was only stating his concerns honestly, for which she respected him all the more. She nodded again, more soberly this time.   “We’re not close enough yet to get any decent snapshots of these people, but when we are, I’ll be able to tell you more about that. Meanwhile, I already have enough to start work on some theories about the effect of rapid technological advancement of a global culture… I’ll be getting on that right away. There should be enough in the historical logs to give me a starting point, Sir. As far as training goes, I agree with you… no amount of Academy training can substitute for experience on the streets. I learned a lot more about the dynamics of people groups before I entered the Academy that I did while I was there! I think I can get my team ready in time… I’ve asked for an entrance psych eval on one team member, and I’ll check on the rest at your request, Sir," stated Brie.   Mason raised an eyebrow, "Odds are there are a few on here who should get those." She swiftly looked around.   Edward nodded and turned his steely gaze at the woman who was his second in command, "Indeed, I can think of at least one more."   (Reply Frazier iyw)   Edward continued. "I also think I want to get Lieutenant Commander Mason off this ship for awhile. She has earned some field time. Lieutenant Ya'turith can have the Conn in our absence. I'll be in constant contact with the ship, as I'll be leading the official First Contact greeting party once we get some intel from you. I want the Lieutenant Commander to go with you," Edward said.    “Very good, Sir,” Bree relied, nodding, “That will give us an even six, three men and three women. If we discover that moving as couples makes up less conspicuous in this culture, it could be helpful on that score, too.”   Edward nodded shortly, trying not to laugh at the look on Mason's face. She seemed both shocked and dismayed at the same time.   Then, in the course of the conversation, Ensign Fiacie interrupted them.   "Sirs... The water discrepancy has been cleared up by Lt. d'Kla's'turr. Ensign Smith didn’t account for the underground water sources so, in fact, my initial assessment of 65% water o the planet is correct. I hope that information can be of some use to you."   Edward resisted the urge to roll his eyes. There was obvious tone of smugness in her voice and he knew that she should have been carrying on with her tasks instead of personally informing them of her victory over another crewmate. Edward only managed, however, a mumbled, "Fine Ensign, carry on."   Ulia snorted and shook her head. "AND you though that it was worth interrupting what was obviously a senior conference to inform us that YOU were right and HE was wrong. My, your ego must be doing back flips right now. Next time, consider sending your findings in a PADD report like everyone else does. Now, I'm sure there are many other things YOU can be right on, so go and find them. We need more information than just water formation." Edward suppressed a smile. ~I knew there was a reason I brought her onboard.~   (Reply Fiacie iyw)   “If that is all, Sir, then I’ll get on with organizing our data and doing my research,” Bree said. “When will our next planning session take place?”   Edward nodded and considered it for a moment. "Time seems relatively short. I want department progress reports and for us to get together to consider next steps at 2000 tonight. Then we'll assemble again at 1000 tomorrow. We need to be sure we get some sleep in the meantime as well."   "Aye sir," Mason stated shortly.   (Reply Frazier) (Posted by Jeff (USS Champlain - Sickbay –  CEO - Lieutenant Rellie Delzar – 1444)   Rellie looked out at the stars from her biobed. The exoskeleton was apparently working again, but she'd managed to shatter her pelvic bone in 4 places, her femur in three and her patella as well was more or less crushed. She would be out of action for a long time. ~If not forever. ~ At this point, the possibility of retirement was a real one for Rellie, and she contemplated it long and hard. She had already sent her advice for her 'temporary' replacement to the Captain, knowing full well it could become permanent. Or that he'd have to transfer someone from elsewhere in the fleet. The Elysian laid back in obvious pain until Mor'rel came by to administer a painkiller again.   "You know Lieutenant, if you insist upon moving all the time, we will never be able to get you back to some semblance of normalcy," the Vulcan doctor said crisply. He had been as good as a Vulcan could be. It was true his bedside manner wasn't very good, but he was a good doctor. It was the crushed patella that was giving him the hardest time.   "I know Doctor, and I do appreciate your help. This is just very frustrating," stated Rellie, knowing that the Vulcan would really understand the concept of 'frustration' that well. He shrugged his shoulders and went back about his business. And Rellie sighed again aloud before tapping her comm badge, "Delzar to Engineering. What's going on with my baby? Anyone need any verbal advice or encouragement? I'm bored up here!"   (Reply any in engineering) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Bird - 1446)   Paul's hand hovered above the comm-badge to talk to ensign Suvik - Bertorelli , to inform him that once again he was going to enter the Jeffrey's tubes in search of wayward Isolinear chips , when the message came through .   =^= Delzar to Engineering. What's going on with my baby? Anyone need any verbal advice or encouragement? I'm bored up here! =^=   " Greetings Sir , glad to hear that you are all right! errr sorry I haven't been to see you " , Paul was washed with feelings of guilt , for it was his actions that had put the lieutenant in the sickbay, but as jet he had not addressed her , being more overwhelmed by the damage he had caused others. " I want to say how sorry I am again about the accident, and anything you want I can get you . "   ( Reply Delzar )   " Understood Sir , Now to the engines , we could most assuredly use your help . We have several Isolinear chips which have been damaged , Ensign  Suvik - Bertorelli believes by someone trying to hack their way in . The peculiar thing is that it's holographic and command systems , with some overlay into environment that's being attacked , Any ideas why?"   ( Reply Delzar )   " Sounds plausible , what do you think we should do about it ? "   (Reply Delzar )   " Okay , will do and again thanks and sorry "   ( Reply Delzar , Gabe ) (Posted by Paul ) (USS Champlain - Sickbay –  CEO - Lieutenant Rellie Delzar – 1450)   Rellie listened as the reply came to her hail across the comm channel. In truth, it was good just to hear someone's voice again. She had felt disconnected and apart from everything she loved to do while she was stuck in sickbay.   =^=Greetings Sir, glad to hear that you are all right! Errr sorry I haven't been to see you=^=, Bird stated, =^=I want to say how sorry I am again about the accident, and anything you want I can get you. =^=   "Honestly Ensign, these things happen. It’s over now, I'm on the mend. All I need right now is to keep busy and feel like I'm doing something. I'm bored. I miss work. So, what's going on down there?" asked Rellie again.   =^=Understood Sir, Now to the engines, we could most assuredly use your help. We have several Isolinear chips, which have been damaged, Ensign Suvik - Bertorelli believes by someone trying to hack their way in. The peculiar thing is that it's holographic and command systems, with some overlay into environment that's being attacked, Any ideas why. =^=   "If it is someone trying to 'hack' in it’s the perfect place. It would give them eventual control of the ship through environment and self-destruct, as well as other command functions. However, remember this redesign is new. There is also a real possibility that there could be some kind of design flaw. We didn't have enough time for a proper shakedown cruise before launch. Be sure to check that as well," stated Rellie calmly. Everyone had been finding saboteurs in the woodworks lately; part of it was doubtlessly hysteria.   =^=Sounds plausible, what do you think we should do about it? =^=   "Replace the chips. We have spares in the lockups. Put a security field over sensitive areas in case there is physical attack and talk to one of the software engineers about better encryption. Also, do a diagnostic to ensure that it isn't just a case of some problem in the initial programming phase. We don't want to overlook the obvious," stated Rellie.   =^=Okay, will do and again thanks and sorry. =^=   "Honestly Ensign, things will be better if we just forget about the past and move on. Keep me posted."   (Reply Bird) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain - Science Labs - CSO - Lieutenant d'Kla's'turr - 1452)   d'Kla moved down to and then through through the science labs with a driven intensity. The thudding of his cane could be heard reverberating on the deckplates in his wake. He knew that time was of the essence and things were just going too slowly. "Alright, we have basssic landformsss, wonderful; we have a lot more than that. We need to get imagesss from the planet of the people living there. Have we ssscanned for orbital broadcasssting sssatellites yet? There is a chancsse that if they have warp capassity they have some kind of transmissssssion sssyssstem that is planetwide."   (Reply Fiacie, LaQua, Smith, any others in science)   "Failing that possssssibility, we need to find a way to get imagesss from the sssurface from far enough away that we can't be ssseen. I want to give medical the possssssibility of getting an early ssstart. Any ideasss people?" asked d'Kla. This was the kind of problem that a group of scientists would excel at and he knew it, he hoped that their minds were agile and quick so they could overcome these obstacles.   (Reply any in science)   "We also need to sssomehow ssscan for population densssities, this ssshould give us an idea of where their capitalsss are located. That ssshould be relatively easssy once we get more ssspecssiesss data," stated d'Kla, "Let’s go people, we don't have THAT much time, and if I know command, they'll be looking for results yesterday."   (Reply any in science) (Posted by Jeff) (USS Champlain – Counsellor's Office – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 2043) Rhinehart leaned back in his chair, tipping the cold remains of his tenth – or was it his twelfth? – cup of tea down his throat. Following his interview with Hawk, he'd spent a sedate, if slightly uninteresting, afternoon reading and signing off on inter-departmental reports. He'd even managed to file a couple himself. It wasn't often he allowed himself the luxury of feeling pleased with himself... but it had been a good day. Stretching mightily, he glanced into the dim corners of the office, and the shadowed alcove occupied by Alosar. He tried to remember the last time he had actually seen the chief counsellor, never mind spoken to him. He frowned. Where had the lieutenant been of late? “Terminal off,” he muttered, shaking the question free of his mind, the shadows suddenly leaping inward as the light of his screen died. He sat still in the cool, soothing darkness a moment, enjoying the silent space, feeling the taut coils of his mind unwind. Almost before he realized it, his hand had tapped his combadge. “Counsellor Rhinehart to Lt Frazier,” he said. (Reply Bree) “I'm about done for the night, so I thought I'd head next door to sickbay, like we discussed earlier. Shall I meet you there?” (Reply Bree) “Good. Look forward to it. Rhinehart out.” He smiled again as the channel closed, glad that the air between them was finally starting to clear. (USS Champlain – Sickbay – COUNS – Ensign (SG) Olen Rhinehart – 2046) Rhinehart strolled through the doors, casting glances around the room. He was looking for any sign of Ensign LaQua, but he saw no familiar faces on the biobeds, and no obvious sign of Mor'rel or Henna-Star. “Hello?” called Rhinehart. (Reply any in sickbay) (Posted by Noel) [Compile Ends]