Compile break down: Day: 183 (USS Dennison – Ready Room – CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1848) (U.S.S. Dennison – Ready Room – CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1932) (U.S.S. Dennison - Bridge - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1948) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 20.07) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CONN - Ens.sg Elenor Night -2008) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - Counselor - Lt. Alosar - 2203) (U.S.S. Dennison - Bridge - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2242) (U.S.S. Dennison - Bridge - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2305.5) (USS Dennison, Ready Room, Captain Archibald Stakes, 2307) Day: 184 (U.S.S. Dennison–Briefing Room–Ops Ensign Chance Raschen-0554) (USS Dennison- Briefing Room- Counselor- Lt. Alosar- 0554.5) (USS Dennison- Briefing Room- Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 0555) (USS Dennison- Breifing Room- Counselor- Lt. Alosar- 0556) (U.S.S. Dennison; Briefing Room; Ops; Ensign Chance Raschen; 0558.5) (U.S.S. Dennison–Briefing Room–Nymes & Night-0559) (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO Archibald Stakes - 0800) (USS Dennison – Office of the First Officer – First Officer - Commander Eric McDermott – 0907) (U.S.S. Dennison–First Officer’s Office–Ops Ensign Chance Raschen-0915) (U.S.S. Dennison–First Officer’s Office–Ops Ensign Chance Raschen-0925) (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 0926) (U.S.S. Dennison – Intelligence Office, Commander Trevan West- 0927) (U.S.S. Dennison; Operations Office; Operations; Ensign Chance Raschen; 0930) (USS Dennison, Office of the First Officer, Commander Trevan West, 0933) (U.S.S. Dennison; First Officer's Office; Ops; Ensign Chance Raschen; 0935) ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2408.01.08 Day: 183 ********************************************************* (USS Dennison – Ready Room – CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1848) "Sir, I already have an office down on the main engineering deck. Completely secure and operates independently from ship's systems. She's under guard at all times, all I would have to do is re-program the security systems in place to allow you access as well," he said gulping, "and I would really prefer not to move the office as most of the systems are hard wired. It took almost a month to get the office installed, sir." Archibald narrowed his eyes for a second, then realised that such an office would not be showing on a standard ship layout, like the one he had received from Star Fleet to assist him getting to know the vessel. What did come as a bit of a surprise was the willingness that Trevan displayed with allowing Archibald full access to it. Surely the Commander would realise that if anything Star Fleet Intelligence would not agree? It's not that Archibald particularly wanted to be able to look into the muddy waters that was SFI. It was merely an expression of him wanting to be kept in the loop at all times. And see how the Commander would react to a severe infringement on his territory. But perhaps the Commander would reconsider after giving the matter a bit more thought. That would be the correct way, even after making an mistake with the original assessment. In the end Archibald just nodded and continued with setting out the way he wanted the ship to be run and ending with the standard question for more questions. "No sir. No questions," replied Trevan, "Without sounding like I am kissing your behind sir, I also adhere to the rules and regulations." Archibald noticed McDermott looking at West for a second before responding himself. "No questions sir." Keeping his face impassive Archibald nodded. "Mister West, for a man of your position and rank I would take that as a given. But thank you for the confirmation. However, in future, I would suggest only appropriate language to be used." Archibald was just about to send them on their way, when he suddenly remembered something, which someone had told him in passing. "Oh, gentlemen, I understand that the dock engineers are nearing the completion of the repairs and upgrading. From twenty-three hundred or thereabouts, the ship is going to be powered up completely and the ship will be fully accessible. However, I would suggest that we would not let the crew return until we are sure everything is working as it should be, which should be the day after tomorrow. Then, I understand there are a few days of testing, taking the ship out for trial run etcetera and the ship should be ready to be taken out in earnest in one week's time. I would suggest we hold the ceremony of changing of the command when the crew has returned, say in two days time?" (reply Trevan, Eric, room for more) Archibald nodded. "In that case, gentlemen, you're dismissed." (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Ready Room – CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1932) “Sir, I completely understand your concerns and reservations about me and I don’t blame you in the least. I do thank you for allowing me to keep this.” Archibald nodded in response to the thanks and continued listening to the Ensign explaining himself. He was starting to get a bit anxious as Raschen continually stated payments throughout his explanation. It appeared to Archibald that money was an important drive in the Ensign's career. And that worried him. Because sooner or later someone would show up who paid just that little bit better. It was a privateer's mindset, no doubt. And it was probably a reason why Raschen was regarded as an issue within Star Fleet. Star Fleet and their officers prided themselves on their wish to endorse and protect Star Fleet and the Federation and its laws and moral background. The payment was never an issue, nor the amount. They served because they wanted to make a difference. "I promise you that I will do my best not to be any trouble to you sir; so yes, I will do my best to abide by the laws and regs of the fleet and the fed. I do suggest that you read over what the fleet psychologist wrote in my dossier sir; and please understand that I’m not afraid to come up with ideas and make suggestions no matter how crazy they may seem sir.” Archibald contemplated in silence how best to respond. He could see that, morals aside, their would be situations where a free-thinking person would have benefits. On the other hand, morals *did* matter to Archibald and as ship's Captain he was tasked with maintaining the rule of law, Federation law. And if the two would collide, Archibald knew what had to be done. "Thank you for being candid with me, Ensign," Archibald finally said with a nod, " and I will respond in kind. I appreciate that the background of serving as a Star Fleet officer may not have been the same as for the other officers yet, and I wish to be perfectly clear on this, you will be measured against the same ruler as they are. Once you have donned a Star Fleet uniform, you are, for all intents and purposes, a Star Fleet officer and *will* be required to adhere to the same rules and regulations. Whilst it may be true that unconventional thinking may be an asset, I do have to consider at which price that service comes." Archibald fell silent for a moment. "I will follow your recommendation, Ensign, and consider the psychological back ground, but you must be aware that under Federation law personal issues can not change a guilty verdict into a not guilty one. They may have an impact on the sentencing, but not on the decision. Also be reminded that if your personal situation led to a dereliction of duty, one of the questions raised at the hearing will be if a person with such a mind set should be allowed to continue to serve as Star Fleet officer." Archibald nodded. "It would be far preferable, Ensign, if this situation never arose, wouldn't you agree?" (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (U.S.S. Dennison - Bridge - Captain Archibald Stakes - 1948) Archibald continued to regard the female officer as she reacted to him, noticing the change of expression when he mentioned the 'computing' skills. Unfortunately she didn't provide an explanation into why Lydia might have considered it prudent to 'warn' him. In fact he had been wondering why she had mentioned it at all. He was pretty sure there was more to the story than Lydia and now Cattia let on. But it looked like he would never find out what exactly happened. And that annoyed him. You couldn't be in complete control if you didn't know all the facts. He forced himself to refrain the sigh that was building up inside him. "When may I start my duties, Sir?" The CO looked up. "As soon as, Ensign." he responded. " I understand that the ship will be finalising the repairs in a matter of hours, rather than days and I want you and Mister Raschen to make sure that the ships systems are all working properly before we leave the base. But for the mean time, it does mean that you will have to contact the star base quarter master. I believe quarters have been arranged for you, but he would know where. Then until you receive a summons, you are to study the files on an Indefatigable class vessel and familiarise yourself with the systems on board. As I said, I expect you will be able to bring into practice what you studied soon. Any more questions, Ensign?" (Reply by Cattia, iyw) Archibald regarded her for a second. "Then you are dismissed.) (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO - Captain Archibald Stakes - 20.07) Archibald nodded through the summary that the CONN officer gave of her service career. It was a good synopsis, but he had read her personnel file. So he already knew this. *And* it wasn't an answer to his question. He regarded her for a moment when she stopped with: "If you want any answers, sir, feel free to ask them." Archibald wondered if he should press his point. *If* she was hiding something, he should know. But if there wasn't anything worth mentioning, pressing it would be even worse. ~Neutral, then.~ he decided. "Thank you, Ensign. But I'm interested in what I can't find in your personnel file. Just so that I can get a better 'feel' for you, if you pardon the expression." (posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison - CONN - Ens.sg Elenor Night -2008) "Thank you, Ensign. But I'm interested in what I can't find in your personnel file. Just so that I can get a better 'feel' for you, if you pardon the expression." Ele nodded, it was rational the the man in front of her wanted to know some background of her life. "Well, sir, I grew up on Bajor with my parents - cut my teeth on grav-bikes when I could, and shadowed my mother when diplomacy demanded it. My father was involved with civilian aid, so I saw a lot of deprivation when I was growing up, watching everyone gaze upwards into the night sky to the stars and escape. My parents enrolled me into a pilots course, and took me up in there runabout when they had time, and I learnt to pilot then. One of my mothers colleagues sponsored my entry to the academy, and I started piloting single seater craft, earning my way into the display team, and the fighter squadron before it was destroyed..." Ele stumbled into silence. (posted by GC) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - Counselor - Captain Lt. Alosar - 2203) Alosar sat at the CO's bidding and listened to his self introduction. He could see that he was making an effort to try to not be erroneous in his dissertation, but it was a stretch, as it was with most humans, and those used to dealing with humans. "In short, Mister Alosar," the captain stated, "I believe in Duty and the Regulations. I pride myself on running a tight ship. You will assist me." Alosar almost shrugged. What else would he expect? To do otherwise would constitute as mutiny, and Alosar was, as yet, unwilling to take such a stance with a new CO. Stakes continued, "I have observed that certain crewmembers will react with more or less open rebellion when faced with a stringent regime. I will need you and your department to observe and defuse those tendencies before they can disrupt the vessel." he ended, then as an after thought. "Duty before self-fulfillment." When Stakes finished he nodded as if he expected a response. "You will, of course, have the complete cooperation of the counseling department Captain," Alosar replied. "However, I do not understand your assumption that there will be open rebellion. Do you feel that you do not carry enough authority to command those who used to a different regiment? I do not ask this to be insubordinate, sir, just to see where you believe you are with your own abilities. After all, open rebellion and mutiny on a Federation starship, although infrequent, has rarely been successful. There are many factors that would bring that to pass." (posted by Al Muir) === (U.S.S. Dennison - Bridge - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2242) Archibald sighed and took three steps back to inside of the bridge. He had almost left the ship to (belatedly) meet up with his family, when his comm badge had beeped. "Yes, Mister Freeman, I am available now to go through the repair update with you." he said to the Master Chief Petty Officer through his comm link . "Can you meet me here on the bridge?" (Reply by Edward) (U.S.S. Dennison - Bridge - Captain Archibald Stakes - 2305.5) "Captain, a moment if you will with you and Commander McDermott." asked Trevan. Archibald regarded the officers for a moment, wondering if they had some kind of radar that alerted them whenever Archibald was getting ready to spend some time with his family. However, he stood up, straightened his jacket and nodded. "My ready room, gentlemen?" "Thank you sir." (USS Dennison, Ready Room, Captain Archibald Stakes, 2307) "Sir, I will get right to the point." he said, "With regards to my position with Starfleet Intelligence, there are a few things you and Eric need to know." Archibald sat himself down as he directed the others to sit down as well. ~That was quick,~ Archibald thought as he nodded and said: "Continue, Mister West." Archibald nodded a few times as Trevan explained his spying background. When the following orders-bit was mentioned, Archibald was about to ask a question but thought it better to let him continue the explanation. "If a conflict exists, you will be notified about it." ~I would certainly hope so,~ Archibald thought. ~And that would be a bare minimum~, he considered. But again he refrained from speaking out just yet and waved the Commander to speak on. What then followed was the retraction that Archibald expected to happen and Archibald nodded again as he expected the next sentence to be more fo the same. However, his eyes suddenly flinched as Trevan continued, clearly less at ease, which should have triggered Archibald. It took Archibald a split second to regain his impassive face as thoughts raced through his mind and he could start feeling himself getting angry. ~Oh, do we now?~ he thought about SFI requests being placed above the ships needs, above Star Fleets needs, even. The statement was weakened by what West said afterwards but to Archibald the set up was clearly all wrong. "I have no issues with that." Trevan continued, which Archibald found a curious statement. But that was perhaps because he thought differently. "Are there any questions that you two want to ask me?" ~ I should bl**dy well think so,~ Archibald thought but instead of lashing out immediately, he decided to need some time to regain his composure. The CO looked over at Eric. "Mister McDermott. I take this information is new to you?" (reply Eric) Archibald nodded, thankful for the additional time to sort out his own response. "Remind me, if you will, Mister West, but I can distinctly remember from your personnel file that you joined Star Fleet before SFI approached you. If my memory is indeed correct then I think it would be clear that Star Fleet holds the senior rights to your duty. Plus the fact, of course, that SFI is a side branch of Star Fleet and we are, if you pardon the expression, the main branch. And if memory serves me correctly, Star Fleet Main Branch funds the sub-divisions, including SFI. And the one who controls the money, controls everything." Archibald fell silent for a second but continued before anyone else could. "Now I appreciate that SFI will say this isn't so, and that they are an independent body under their own control. And up to a point they are probably correct. You need to be in a very high position to force SFI to do anything. To be honest I can only see only the Commander in Chief of Star Fleet, Fleet Admiral Stanislav Bennet, who would be able to control them. So for a 'mere' Commander, or a Lieutenant, to stand up to them....." Archibald fell silent again. "Let's put it this way, they would not flinch before bringing down a Captain, let alone anyone lower. The only saving grace a Captain has is simply: status quo. Tackling a Captain would mean tackling the structure on which Star Fleet was built and nobody in SFHQ would want that to happen. We are already shown in an unfavorable light at the moment, after the war which we allowed to happen, as it is. And make no mistake, the public eye *is* upon us, weary, waiting for the next time that 'we' slip up. I think even SFI understands this and they will refrain from the more serious indiscretions." Archibald sighed. "Unless they are sure they can get away with it." Archibald looked at the Commanders. "I do not envy you your position, Mister West. It looks like you will the piece of rope used in a tug of war between SFI and Star Fleet. And I am afraid that I will do my best to win it. Nothing personal, just duty. And as such, Commander, I *will* expect you to place your Star Fleet duty before all else. However, I will seek further advice on the matter. Until then, I believe it best that you continue as before. I do not wish SFI to start pulling the rope until I learn how hard I am allowed to pull back." (reply Trevan, Eric) "Well then, gentlemen. Oh, before I forget, did either of you have given any thought on how and when we notify the senior staff of the changes in command structure?" "That will be in tomorrow's mission briefing sir." West responded to which Archibald nodded. "Then make it so," Archibald ended. (Reply by Edward, Trevan, Eric) (Posted by Adrie Geuken) ********************************************************* Healer in the Tower Stardate: 2407.01.09 Day: 184 ********************************************************* (U.S.S. Dennison–Briefing Room–Ops Ensign Chance Raschen-0554) Chance was whistling the tune ‘Dixie Land’ as he walked through the door to the Briefing Room with a spring in his step. On the way up from his quarters, he kept thinking about the female Andorian sergeant that he had spent another heavily intimate evening with the night before in her personal quarters onboard the U.S.S. Plantation. Chance remembered meeting So’nia at the costume party his mom had hosted aboard his grandpa’s ship, S.S. Bounty, the month before. They had become fast friends, and shortly after the party, ‘friends with benefits’. As he took notice of the looks on the faces of those present and the time on the wall mounted chronometer; he was glad he was early, but hoped he really wasn’t the last one in. “How’s everyone doin’ this morning?” Chance asked trying not to sound too chipper, but polite just the same as he sat down in a random, unreserved seat with a Cheshire cat grin on his face. (Posted by Charlie) === ( USS Dennison- Briefing Room- Counselor- Lt. Alosar- 0554.5) Alosar stepped into the briefing room and took a quick survey of the scene. He was quite surprised that not all of the senior officers had yet arrived, and wondered what could keep them from such an important meeting. Of course, the hour of the call might have something to do with it. Those on Alpha would find this time quite early, and those on Beta shift would find the hour in the middle of their down time. Only Gamma shift would find the timing to be acceptable. Of course, the counselor did not conform to a shift, and was always on duty, or on call. It was the nature of the job, just as the CMO and the CO were. Alosar had found the few hours of sleep he had gotten to be refreshing enough. But now he was curious as to the contents of this briefing. There had been no agenda presented, so the information must, logically, be new and important. As he walked to his seat he nodded to McDermott and West. The news of their new positions had spread through the ship as most rumors do. As counselor he had heard them all. One crewman had informed him that West was so upset by the situation that he took a swing at the new CO. There had also been a rumor that West and McDermott had had their own altercation, causing a rift in their relationship. Alosar had dismissed the rumors, but now noticed a little tension in the room between the two men. Perhaps there was some substantiation to those rumors. The only others in attendance at the time was the CSO, Lt. Bracken and the new officer that had arrived the day before, one Ensign Soma. "Gentlemen," Alosar stated at McDemott and West. Then he nodded at Bracken, "Lt. Bracken, good morning. Ensign." Alosar stopped at Soma's seat. "Ensign Soma, I am Lt. Alosar, ships counselor. It would be most advisable if we had an opportunity to talk, sometime today." (reply Soma) With that Alosar sat down in his chair, ignoring the coffee that was offered. Alosar had never enjoyed the beverage, although he had tried it on several occasions. At the academy he had been told once, by a human roommate, that one adapted to the taste. Alosar had found that illogical as there were already so many other beverages that he enjoyed. And so he sat and watched the others. He didn't have to wait long for the next person to arrive. (posted by Al Muir) === ( USS Dennison- Breifing Room- Ensign (jg) Ben Soma- 0555) Ben looked up as another officer entered the briefing room. The Vulcan was wearing a blue under shirt which meant he was involved in sciences, and the pips on his collar indicated he was a Lieutenant. "Gentlemen,"The Lieutenant stated at McDemott and West. Then he nodded at Bracken, "Lt. Bracken, good morning. Ensign." Then the lieutenant headed in Ben's direction and stoped at his seat."Ensign Soma, I am Lt. Alosar, ships counselor. It would be most advisable if we had an opportunity to talk, sometime today." Ben regarded the Vulcan for a second before replying, " Sir, would after the meeting be acceptable to you." (reply Alosar) With that the Lieutenant sat in his seat and never bothered with any of the refreshments on the table. ~ Maybe he does not like coffee~ Ben thought . Then the briefing room doors opened once again to admit another of the Dennison's crew. ( posted by Milo Young) === (USS Dennison- Breifing Room- Counselor- Lt. Alosar- 0556) " Sir," Soma replied, "would after the meeting be acceptable to you." "It would indeed," Alosar admitted, "if you have the time." It had been the Vulcan's experience that humans often obligated themselves for meetings when they really did not have the time to attend them. It was a matter of how long this meeting would take. With that he went to take his seat. (posted by Al Muir) (U.S.S. Dennison; Briefing Room; Ops; Ensign Chance Raschen; 0558.5) Waiting for the Intel briefing to begin, Chance just could not help but smile as he looked at the different facial expressions of the other folks in the room thinking ~any morning you wake up with your arms wrapped around a beautiful woman is a very good morning~ (Posted by Charlie) === (U.S.S. Dennison–Briefing Room–Nymes & Night-0559) Ele had spent an evening with her books and briefing PADDs, relishing the opportunity that had been given to her. She had the information of several of the new crewmembers at her disposal, and had a shortlist for the junior ACONN down to three. The Senior ACONN had been already assigned - an officer Ele was yet to meet - and the fleet had assigned several junior officers to the Dennison for training and psychometric tests before recall into the fleet pool. Of the officers, Joseph Lane stood out head and shoulders above the names on the list she had been given; a pilot who, despite his skill, hadn't been fast tracked onto the small ships for experience in the same way that Ele had been; she remembered her posting to the Defiant-class Brilliant with fondness, cutting her teeth before taking the step down/sideways to the Dennison's ACONN seat. Despite the jokes, she had made the night shift her own, spending time on the graveyard shift as and when she was needed. This morning, she considered herself strangely rejuvinated, and had woken immediately the commcall had come in, bounding her way into uniform with an excitement that would have embarrassed the most diligent cadet at the academy. She stopped off at Ten Forward on the way up to the briefing room, hoping to grab breakfast on the go. Nymes had had a hellish night, one of the worst since he had been seconded to the starbase's medical centre, but wore the strain with a smile, hiding the stress as was his custom, rejuvinated by the 30 minutes sleep he had managed to concoct in the lull between the mundane and the emergency cases. Lane had crashed repeatedly through the night, requiring 90% of the trill's effort as the officer repeatedly went into and out of PEA. The ACMO had looked dead on his feet at 0300, but Nymes had pressed on, giving the officer a generous 10 minute break once the man had stabilised. 4-30am had brought some good news, as the visiting doctor from the USS Sherwood had arrived for his duty shift early, allowing Nymes to focus more on the longer term plan for his patient, and stabilising him in the present. As Nymes walked off shift at 0530, he headed back to his quarters, grabbing a shower and uniform before heading up to Ten Forward for his morning meal. "You're eating salad?!?" Ele had said, wondering at the time for his choice of meal. "Its Dinner time, Elle, been hell today." Nymes had simply responded, before ploughing on through his meal; Ele making up for his silence by repeating the news of her promotion to CONN, and the plans she had for the department, the latest news from the group of friends; the Ash had left a message to them saying he had gone home to see his parents; that Dee seemed to be shouldering her responsibility as a2O, and that life continued apace. By the time Nymes was ready to speak, the Turbolift had opened at the bridge; and they silently walked to the briefing room which seemed to be bursting at the seams for all the people present. Ele headed straight in, taking a seat at the table, Nymes held back, disposing of his salad's plate and cutlery in the nearest replicator before stepping in, murmuring his "hello" to any who would listen to it, PADD in hand with a list of all outstanding medicals to be performed. (posted by GC) === (USS Dennison - Ready Room - CO Archibald Stakes - 0800) With a sideways glance at his computer to note the time, Archibald relaxed slightly. It was a sign, a decent sign, he considered as he listened to the medical officer explaining his reasoning. That he brought the logs to corroborate his story was one thing. Unfortunately the Ensign still seemed to be under the impression that his major mistake was just a minor one. Archibald narrowed his eyes as the doctor started to tread dangerous grounds bringing up Archibald's duties. It was not the fact that the doctor did not admit the fault, but it was the air that he gave it, making it appear that Archibald himself was the one who had made a moral mistake, or indeed did not know the regulations himself. He knew from the file that there were reasons for a hostile positioning of Nymes. But as Archibald considered, if the Doctor felt so bad about being mistreated, he could have just left. There were plenty of planets requiring medical services, especially after the war, to placate his 'holier than thou' attitude. "Ensign Joseph Lane, Junior CONN officer, posted to the USS Dennison Stardate 2408.01.09. Today is his first day." Nymes finally finished. "I'm sure the Ensign is thrilled to hear that, Mister Nymes," Archibald responded dryly, deliberately using the Mister reference as they were discussing disciplinary matters rather than medical issues. And maybe that would be enough to get into the thick skull of the medic that this wasn't about medical issues. But just in case even heavier sledge hammers were required, Archibald decided on a step by step approach. "Mister Nymes, you received a direct order via your comm badge that your presence was required elsewhere. You did not follow that direct order. You also failed to give notice of your inability to respond to a direct order. And you failed to instruct anyone near you to give notice of your inability to respond to a direct order. According to the rule book, Mister Nymes, at that point in time, you were absent without leave and I had every authority to have you placed under arrest right there and then. You may consider that a flaw in my character that I have not done so, a weakness of character, if you wish, but I considered that if I had done so the mental strain placed upon you might have affected your medical skills and created a dangerous situation for the patient. However, had I taken the decision to have you placed under arrest, as I was instructed to do so, and if at the time the patient would have died as a direct result of that, then the root cause of his death would not have been my decision to enforce the law, but your inability to work within the regulations." ~Although I doubt that you would ever admit to that,~ Archibald thought. ~People with a holier than thou attitude always blame the others, or the circumstances, or the position of Jupiter astrologically, but never themselves.~ Archibald raised his hand. "I understand that you are a good medic and I also understand that you feel that you have been mistreated in the past. If that is the case and you decide that because of my position I am to blame for your misfortune than I have one word for you. Tough. I am the Captain, Mister Nymes. And I am charged with upholding Federation law as well as Star Fleet Regulations. You can like it or you can lump it, but that is *exactly* what I am going to do." Archibald thought for a second. " I did notice your attire yesterday. I must admit I know little of medical procedures but I would have thought that it would be common practice to clean yourself and your garments of any stains and bodily fluids, for health reasons, rather than aesthetical reasons. Had you contacted me and explained the situation I would have been happy to reconvene the following day, to allow for rest and any required personal hygiene. Regulations are rather flexible in that. The one who gives out orders can change them. As can anyone placed above the one who gave the order. And I'm strict, but I'm not a bas*ard, Mister Nymes. However, mess with the regulations and you will find that I am much worse than that." (Posted by Adrie Geuken) === (USS Dennison – Office of the First Officer – First Officer - Commander Eric McDermott – 0907) McDermott stared with pitiless eyes at the three crewmen before him. Sitting in a chair near the back of the room was Lieutenant(jg) Lindsey Carter the Assistant Supply Officer and the superior of the three men before him. It had been a morning full of disciplinary hearings for him and this last one had been the worst yet. All manner of disciplinary problems had cropped up during the last chaotic months of Captain Davis' time aboard the Dennison and the worst had occurred during that uncertain time when it was unknown whether she would recover from her injury, or who or even when she would be replaced. With a new Captain aboard who had made it clear that like McDermott, he was a stickler for the book and the details, Eric could now act without fear of offending a C.O. who might take offence at his actions when she recovered. Now that he no longer had to worry about that constraint, McDermott was on a mission to let the officers and crew of the Dennison know that Star Fleet regulations were not something to be followed only when convenient. Looking at Ensign Timmons, McDermott could still make out the bruising around the youngsters face from the battering he had taken. Small boned and wiry he was a bookish, shy young man who served in Dennison's supply department. With less than three months aboard the Dennison he had quietly gone about his duties attracting little attention negative or otherwise to himself until two days ago. Staring coldly at the Ensign, Eric said, "So let me make sure I understand you correctly Mr. Timmons. You're saying that this gross disrespect and insubordination has been going on for months now." "Yes sir," Timmons quavered. "You're also telling me that yesterday is the first time you called Crewmen Poe and Crewman Wade on their openly disrespectful conduct to you?" "Yes sir." Eric's eyes narrowed and he said calmly, "Might I enquire as to why?" Timmons suddenly seemed to realize that he was the one on the hot seat, not the two crewmen who had assaulted him. "Sir…I…sir, I tried to the…first time it happened but…the proper way to…handle the matter…just did not come to me at the time. After that I-" "After that," Eric cut him off harshly. "The matter got worse didn't it Mr. Timmons." When the young man nodded jerkily Eric snapped, "Should something like this ever happen again Mr. Timmons can I trust you to act like an officer and not like some small rodent that scurries for cover every time it hears a loud noise that startles it!" Timmons flushed and something flashed in his eyes. McDermott saw it and was pleased. A little anger might give this young man some spine, the spine he would need to be a good officer. Otherwise he might as well just resign now and save everyone a lot of hassle. After a moment Timmons seemed to have lost some of his nervousness and he looked at McDermott with something approaching unfriendliness saying, "It won't happen again sir…you may count on that." Eric knew he had not made a friend but this had hardly been the day for that anyway. Giving the young officer a nod he said, "Good." Turning to the two brutish looking crewmen who both looked nervous and yet defiant he said, "Crewman Poe I've gone through your record and I must say if I were you I would not look so cocky right now and as for you Wade I cannot fathom how you even got on this vessel." Poe looked at McDermott openly angry and said, "Sir we don't have to tol-" "I didn't give you leave to speak crewmen!" McDermott thundered startling everyone present with the exception of T'vel who stood behind him and to his right at the ready, just in case things got out of hand. Eric stared daggers at the now sweating Poe and then noticing that Wade was looking at him in a pleading manner that made it clear he wanted to speak. Looking at him he said, "You have a question crewman?" "Sir regulations state we have a right to speak for ourselves and offer a defense. You can't just-" McDermott cut him off saying harshly, "Let me make sure I'm understanding the situation correctly Wade. Are you actually quoting regulations to a superior officer?" Wade opened his mouth for a moment and then closed it as he belatedly realized that if he continued he was likely to be facing additional charges. McDermott stared at him for a long moment and then said, "I thought not." Picking up two PADD's in front of him Eric said, "Alright Mr. Wade, Mr. Poe, I have sworn depositions here from Crewman Tristan who heard the commotion in cargo bay two and discovered the two you assaulting Ensign Timmons and called for help. I also have the depositions of Chief Reese and Ensign Serath the security officers on duty at the time indicating that when they arrived on scene they witnessed your attack on Ensign Timmons and arrested you both on the spot." McDermott was silent for a moment and then said, "So Mr. Wade you would like to offer a defense for your actions?" The silence extended for a long tension filled minute before Wade said softly, "I have nothing to say sir." McDermott looked at Poe who would not even meet his eyes but kept looking at the PADD's sitting in front of Eric as if he would like to smash them into their component parts. After a moment Eric said, "Good. Than we can wrap this up quickly, now gentlemen I could very well set into motion the events that would have you both kicked out of the fleet and dishonorably discharged. But frankly I think the two of you would be happy and relieved with such a penalty so I'm not going to make it that easy for you." Turning his terminal toward him Eric tapped at the keys for a moment and when he was done his office door opened and there stood three security officers with no nonsense expressions all watching him for instructions. Still entering data McDermott did not even bother looking up as he said:" Crewman Wade and Crewman Poe, you are both demoted back two grades and will be fined one half of your pay for the next ninety days. Your liberty, holosuite and leave privileges are suspended for the next six months and in addition to being confined to the ship, you are each assigned an extra four hours of duty daily including those days that you would normally have off. Additionally you will each serve a term of sixty days in the brig." Finishing the entry that he was working on he looked up at them and said, "Welcome back to Starfleet gentlemen. You are dismissed." McDermott gestured for the security officers to take the two men in custody and the senior officer stepped forward handing Eric a PADD. After a quick glance at it Eric inputted his signature and handed it back to the officer and watched as he left. When they were gone Eric looked back at Timmons and said, "Ensign I trust that the next time we meet it will be under much better circumstance or I will be quite put out." Timmons nodded saying, "Yes sir." It was obvious that if he had his way he'd never be willing to step on the same deck as the First Officer again. "Dismissed." When Timmons left Lt. Carter chuckled lightly and at McDermott's questioning look she said, "The look on his face was priceless." Eric looked at her for a long moment and then said, "You find this situation funny Lieutenant?" Carter looked at him and some of the amusement faded as she said, "Not the situation sir no. I just don't have much sympathy for Mr. Timmons sir." Eric looked at the young woman for a moment and then said, "That much is obvious Lieutenant. Tell me do you often allow your personal feeling to get in the way of doing your duty?" Carter stared at McDermott for a moment looking surprised. "Sir?" Eric's eyes narrowed as he said, "It was a simple question Carter. You allowed your personal animosity toward Mr. Timmons to allow a situation like this to go on in your department to the point where it got totally out of control. Your inaction and inattention to your duties have cost this ship two crewmen who will be in the brig for the next sixty days and one officer who was injured and off duty for one." "My question to you is rather simple. Is this how you intend to continue on with your career?" Carter had turned red as she suddenly realized that she was now McDermott's target and that he was gunning for her. "Sir I'll admit I don't particularly like the guy but I was not aware of the-" McDermott cut her off with, "I'm not sure what is worse here Mr. Carter. The fact that you allowed this situation to spin out of control because you've taken a personal disliking to a young officer in your department, an officer I'd like to point out that you should be taking under your wing and helping to settle into his new career. Or the fact that if, as you claim, you are so out of touch with what is going on in your department that something like this could happen without you even being aware of it until an incident like this." Eric stared at Carter for a long moment before saying, "Either way this situation leaves me in the position of wondering whether or not you are even qualified to serve as an assistant department head." Lindsey Carter stared at Eric her mouth open in a state of shock. Nothing could have possibly prepared her for the direction that this mornings proceedings had taken and as her mind raced to try to find a way out of the inescapable web of logic that McDermott had spun around her she realized suddenly that there was no escape and that her fate had likely already been decided before she had even arrived for this hearing. Finally she said, "Sir I…Sir you've got it all wrong." McDermott's stare was distinctly unfriendly and he said, "Do I. Do I really?" Lindsey Carter looked at McDermott for a long moment and then she looked down but not before Eric had seen the shame in her eyes. McDermott again went to work at his terminal and was silent for some time leaving her standing there staring at the floor. When he was done he looked back up at her and said, "Lieutenant Carter you are not fit to serve as an Assistant Department head aboard this ship and as such I am stripping you of your position as Assistant Supply Officer. As of this moment I am putting you in charge of Ensign Timmons's Division." After a moment he went on with, "That youngster needs your help to learn how to do his job and become an officer. I suggest you put aside your personal feelings and attend to your duty, a little compassion might not be out of place as well but that is entirely up to you. Whether or not you are ever seen as being fit to move back up again will depend on how well you train and prepare those who serve beneath you, specifically Mr. Timmons." Carter bit her lip for a moment and then looking up at him she nodded and said, "Understood sir." McDermott nodded and said, "Dismissed." After she left McDermott say quietly in his chair staring at the monitor before him. After a moment he called his Yeoman saying, "Peter I think we need to go over my schedule again, I think I'm going to need to meet with a few more people today." (Posted By: Ken Thacker) === (U.S.S. Dennison–First Officer’s Office–Ops Ensign Chance Raschen-0915) As Chance walked up to the door of Commander McDermott’s office he saw 2 crewmen being escorted away by 3 security officers and his first thought was ~Egad; they had 4 big guys escort just little ol’ me when I got arrested~. He then decided to wait a few minutes, just in case there were still others in the office. Plus it gave him an opportunity to prepare himself for the brig. (U.S.S. Dennison–First Officer’s Office–Ops Ensign Chance Raschen-0925) After watching a battered ensign and a lieutenant that looked like she just got berated; Chance considered giving Eric a chance to calm down first, but then chose not to. As Chance pressed the button to signal his arrival, he was glad that he managed to finagle at least five minutes of the commander’s ridiculously heavy schedule. Once he gained admittance into the office, Chance noticed the ever present T’vel behind the commander. Chance couldn’t help but wonder if there was something more than ‘professional’ between the two. Pushing the curiosity out of his mind, at least for the moment Chance took the initiative and began speaking “Sir, I need to speak with you about something that concerns the entire crew.” (Reply McDermott) “Well sir; I haven’t spoken with him yet, and quit frankly it’s none of my damn business, but it’s about rumors going around concerning the unspoken hostilities between you and Commander West at the briefing this morning sir.” (Reply McDermott) Chance held up his hands saying “Sir, there’s no disrespect intended when I say this;” Then as he continued speaking, Chance returned his hands behind his back “but the fact of the matter is that what ever it is needs to be resolved and that the crew recognizes that fact, other wise whatever you two have going on may cause dissention in the ranks and as it is written ‘No house can stand divided against itself’. Wouldn’t you agree sir?” (Reply McDermott) Chance listened to Eric intently, but broke eye contact with the man and looked over at T’vel as if appraising an opponent in a duel and thought ~She might kick my butt in a fight; but I’ll walk out of the Sick Bay on my own before she does~ and then returned eye contact with McDermott. (Posted by Charlie) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Office of the First Officer – First Officer – Commander Eric McDermott - 0926) "Sir, I need to speak with you about something that concerns the entire crew." McDermott's eyes were still on his panel as he was finishing his report on disciplinary actions for the day. He was also hoping that the rumors of today's activities would spread throughout the crew. If it did it was likely that he would not have to have a repeat of this kind of thing very often. He had glanced up at Raschen when the Ensign had walked in and then back down at his report. He wasn't entirely sure what the Ensign wanted but for his sake it had better not be a waste of McDermott's time. Without looking up he said, "I'm assuming that you brought this matter to the Second Officer before you chose to bring this further up the chain of command Ensign." "Well sir; I haven't spoken with him yet, and quite frankly it's none of my damn business, but it's about rumors going around concerning the unspoken hostilities between you and Commander West at the briefing this morning sir." The statement stunned McDermott although he continued what he was doing and when he had finally finished, he transmitted the report with a final flourish and then sitting back he awarded Raschen with a distinctly unfriendly look but said nothing. Chance held up his hands saying "Sir, there's no disrespect intended when I say this;" Then as he continued speaking, Chance returned his hands behind his back "but the fact of the matter is that what ever it is needs to be resolved and that the crew recognizes that fact, other wise whatever you two have going on may cause dissention in the ranks and as it is written 'No house can stand divided against itself'. Wouldn't you agree sir?" McDermott stared at Raschen unable to believe the temerity of the man. Never in his life had he ever met a junior officer who was so convinced that he carried the authority and position of an admiral! McDermott remembered his own days as an Ensign aboard the Nimitz and shuddered to think of what would have happened to him had he walked into Commander Wolfe's office and asked such a question and offered counseling on such a matter unasked. It was likely though that he would not be sitting where he was now though. Despite the seething anger he responded with, "I am interested to note Ensign that while you correctly point out that the…interactions between your senior officers are none of your business…you seem to have no problem with interposing yourself into them." McDermott paused for a moment and then went on with, "I am too busy to concern myself with ship board rumors and as a junior officer it is your job to keep that kind of thing under control and not let it get out of hand. What I would agree to is that uncontrolled rumor mongering on a ship, especially rumors started by officers who have taken part in a senior staff meeting could be seen as fomenting malcontent aboard a Starfleet vessel and the penalties for such actions are severe indeed." Chance listened to Eric intently, but broke eye contact with the man and looked over at T'vel as if appraising an opponent in a duel and thought ~She might kick my butt in a fight; but I'll walk out of the Sick Bay on my own before she does~ and then returned eye contact with McDermott. McDermott caught the look and felt another flash of fury course through him and had to struggle to keep it under control. It was not hard to know what the man was thinking. Looking back at T'vel he said, "Lieutenant this mornings disciplinary hearing are over you may return to your other duties." T'vel nodded and said, "Yes sir." When she had left McDermott snapped his eyes back to Raschen and stated coldly, "The Lieutenant's presence during disciplinary actions is required in sections 17, subparagraph 9 on Starfleet non-judicial punishments stating that command officers must have security present for their own personal safety during such action Ensign. She was here because the regulations require it not due to my personal preference. I would in fact prefer not to have security present because I do not feel the need for protection…from anyone. I am more than capable of defending myself should it become necessary and I feel a great swell of pity for anyone should they make the mistake of thinking otherwise." McDermott's eyes hardened as he finished with, "Sit down Mr. Raschen." When the Ensign had seated himself McDermott tapped his badge and said, "McDermott to West. I have a matter that needs your immediate attention in my office. I apologize if I interrupted you but this cannot wait." (Posted By: Ken Thacker) === (U.S.S. Dennison – Intelligence Office, Commander Trevan West- 0927) Trevan had managed to get back down to his office. After the briefing, he had to make a few rounds down in Engineering and then to the Science Department to grab some information. Finally just as he was sitting down and relaxing, he heard Commander McDermott's page. =/\=McDermott to West. I have a matter that needs your immediate attention in my office. I apologize if I interrupted you but this cannot wait.=/\= 'It is one of those days' he thought. Grunting as he got up, he tapped his badge, "I'll be there shortly Eric, West out." and tapped his badge to close the channel. 'I wonder what that's all about' he thought as he exited the office and headed towards the nearest turbolift, "It better be good," he said aloud to the empty lift. *Command not recognized, please restate command* the computer said. "I wasn't talking to you, but, Deck Two!" he said annoyed. === (U.S.S. Dennison; Operations Office; Operations; Ensign Chance Raschen; 0930) "Sit down Mr. Raschen." McDermott had ordered him. Once Raschen had seated himself McDermott tapped his badge and said, "McDermott to West. I have a matter that needs your immediate attention in my office. I apologize if I interrupted you but this cannot wait." Chance waited until Eric had closed the comm before speaking “Sir, while we wait for Commander West may I ask you a semi-personal question?” (Reply McDermott) “Well I know you can recite rules and regulations from memory and that seems to give you a pillar of strength; my question too you is this…do you relate rank with experience?” (Posted by Charlie) === (USS Dennison, Office of the First Officer, Commander Trevan West, 0933) Trevan rang the door chime to the office and then entered to see Commander McDermott and Ensign Raschen together. "You wanted to see me Eric,?" he asked. (Posted by Kerry Fletcher) (U.S.S. Dennison; First Officer's Office; Ops; Ensign Chance Raschen; 0935) After Trevan arrived and the two commanders exchanged “pleasantries”, Chance waited patiently until he was allowed to speak in which case he started “I felt this needed to be solved at the lowest possible level, which is why I came to you two because unfortunately the problem is starting from rumors about the both of you, thus making you the lowest level by default sirs.” (Reply McDermott, West) “Well sirs, I didn’t see it so I don’t know. But the story I heard was that if someone hadn’t walked in, you two would have been serving up knuckle sandwiches to one another. And because someone supposedly saw you give each other dirty, threatening looks in the briefing room a couple of hours ago, and mentioned it to a friend who told a buddy; well now not more than 30 minutes ago a small handful of folks were already having a debate in Ten-Forward on which one of you they should support incase something happened to the new skipper and there is a power struggle between you two. I might be wrong but this could impact on the vessel’s operational readiness.” (Reply any) “With over a decade of experience as a ship’s captain under my own belt, I suggest that the crew needs to SEE (and not just hear) that you are able to function cohesively together. You two need to set the example if you expect the rest of the crew to put their differences aside and work together.” (Reply McDermott, West) “Yes sir, a little I guess; but does that make what I’ve said any less true sir?” (Posted by Charlie)