Compile Index: Mission: Wagon Train Amongst the Stars Day 14 (U.S.S. Mithrandir - Two-Port - Prime Director, Dak Osiris - 2100) (USS Mithrandir – Deck 02, "Hard2Port" – ACEO Ensign j.g. Elith Rejal – 2111) Day 15 (U.S.S. Mithrandir - Outside Holodeck 1- Crewman Morgan Randell-1800) Day 16 (USS Mithrandir – Personal Quarters – AOPAOPS/CONN BJ Stone - 0700) (USS Mithrandir, Sickbay, CMO's Office - Acmo Ensign jg Ava McGregor - 11:00 hrs) (U.S.S. Mithrandir - Sickbay, AOPS/CONN Ens (jg) BJ Stone 1130) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – ACSO Ens (jg) Martzia - 1338) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – AOPS/CONN Ens (jg) BJ Stone - - 1340) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – ACSO Martzia - 1345) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – AOPS/CONN BJ Stone -p;- 1347) (SS Wanderlust - Civilian sector 44 - ATac Ensign Ben Soma-1600) (USS Mithrandir – Officer's Lounge deck 4 – ACSO Martzia – 1800) (USS Mithrandir – Outside Officer's Lounge deck 4 – Crewman Morgan Randell– 16, 1805) (USS Mithrandir – Outside Officer's Lounge deck 4 – ACSO Martzia– 16, 1806) (USS Mithrandir – Officcer's Lounge deck 4 – AOPS/CONN BJ Stone– 16, 1810)  (USS Mithrandir – Officer's Lounge deck 4 – ACSO Martzia– 16, 1811) (USS Mithrandir – Officer's Lounge deck 4 – Crewman Morgan Randell– 16, 1812)  Day 17 (USS Mithrandir – Holodeck 1 – ACSO Martzi - 0500) (USS Mithrandir - TwoPort - Acmo Ensign (jg) Ava McGregor Day 17 -1035) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission Wagon Train Amongst the Stars Stardate 2408.06.20 Day 14 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<  (U.S.S. Mithrandir - Two-Port - Prime Director, Dak Osiris - 2100) The meal that Ms. Hikaru had provided had been delicious, Dak had almost forgotten what a decent meal tasted like after surviving on rations for the past several months, while waiting to be rescued. His wife and offspring had just left for they were tired after all the preparations to evacuate their home planet, and now all they wanted to do now was to relax in their fine quarters before heading to bed.  Dak had remained behind in an attempt to get to know some of the crew, or at the very least be known by them, and had told Reyna that he would be along shortly. He approached a small group who were talking and laughing among themselves. "Hello!!  Please excuse my interruption."  Dak smiled with genuine friendliness.  "My name is Dak Osiris and I am Prime Director of the New Edonites."  He stated, thrusting his right hand forward to firmly shake anyone's who cared to reciprocate.  "I have quarters here on the Mithrandir and I feel I should try to make everyone's aquaintance." (reply Any) (posted by Sal) (USS Mithrandir – Deck 02, "Hard2Port" – ACEO Ensign j.g. Elith Rejal – 2111) "Please," The Doctor assured with the slightest of smiles, "Ava is fine. We're all Ensigns, you don't need to be so fuddy-duddy with me." ~Fuddy-duddy? Does she mean formal?~ "My apologies, Ava, I was merely being polite." (Reply Ava/Lanista ifw) "And as for being busy," Ava wrinkled her nose, "Rushed off my feet more like," Her expression relaxed and she smiled, "But loving every minute of it." Elith nodded, "Sounds exausting, however it is good to hear that you're enjoying your work. I can't say that I've been quite as busy as you are, but repairing the freighters has been a daunting task in and of itself, as Lanista will surely tell you." (Reply Ava, Lanista, Any) (Posted by Matt Kirk) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission Wagon Train Amongst the Stars Stardate 2408.06.21 Day 15 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<  (U.S.S. Mithrandir - Outside Holodeck 1- Crewman Morgan Randell-1800)   Morgan had decided to take a little time for himself and spend some time in the Holodeck. He had eaten lunch, changed out of his uniform and pulled on a set of coveralls. Everything else he needed would be provided in the program. Upon reaching the doors he pressed the panel next to them bringing the interface to life. He enjoyed spending time in his programs every now and again, and after the last few days he felt he deserved a small respite.   "Computer, activate program Grease Monkey 1. Resume from the last time I used the program." Morgan said into the comm link.   He waited a few brief moments while the computer loaded the program and settings from the last time he was there. He still had a lot of work to do on the current "job" but it was a welcomed brake from the usual run of starship life. It slowed things down a little and gave him something to think of other then the problems that faced then with the convoy and its cargo.   [Program running, enter when ready.] Came the computers reply.   Morgan walked up to the doors and they opened showing him the inside of a garage, tools of various sorts hung from the walls, there was a calendar showing scantly clad women dated 2010. The doors and windows were open and outside the sun was shinning and he could hear birds singing. He could even hear the leaves on the trees rustling in the gentle breeze. All this was peaceful but not what he had come here for. Looking in the center of the floor was what he wanted, a 1967 Chevrolet Impala four door hard top. His pet project, he had been picking at this car for a number of years. Sure he could have requested a fully operation car, but where was the fun in that. He was an engineer and enjoyed working on machinery.   So far he had refurbished the chassis, painted it, plumbed it and connected a wiring harness to it. A couple months ago he installed a 350 cubic inch engine complete with headers and a high flow carburetor. The transmission was a five speed manual gearbox. A couple weeks ago he had installed a stainless steel exhaust system, dual pipes with a flow master muffler. After that he dropped the body on the chassis, completed the wiring and the interior carpeting and upholstery. He painted the body black, an acrylic based paint and then gave it five coats of clear coat, the light reflecting of the paint was almost blinding. Now he was ready to install the front and rear windshield and begin replacing the chrome.   Walking up to the workbench he picked up a tube of urethane window sealant, placed it inside a chalking gun and walked up to the front of the car. Reaching around he placed a uniform bead of the sealer around the front and then the rear of the car. Then he requested that the computer place the required glass where it should go, if he had thought about it long enough before he would have invited someone to give him a hand at placing the glass. Returning to the bench he replaced the gun where it was and then moved over to a roll away tool cart, picking up a couple boxed wrenches of various sizes he again requested the chrome for the car as well as the necessary fasteners from the computer. When it was produced he began placing it where it went and tightening the fasteners.   Before he realized it a couple hours had passed and all the chrome was installed, now all he had to do was complete the brake installation and choose a set of rims and tires to install. Not wanting to complete the job too quickly, he decided he would call it quits for the day and come back later. He would go back over the computer records and choose his rims and tires and then up load the information to the program from his quarters. Looking up at the ceiling he said,   "Computer save current settings and end program."   Moments later the garage and the car faded from view and the familiar hologrid was revealed. He walked over to the big doors and when they opened he exited the room. The doors closed behind him and headed of to his quarters.   (reply any) (posted by Milo) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission Wagon Train Amongst the Stars Stardate 2408.06.22 Day 16 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<  (USS Mithrandir – Personal Quarters – AOPAOPS/CONN BJ Stone - 0700) BJ popped out of bed when the alarm chime went off.  He had already programmed the room for his morning preference, a chime at 0700, coffee from the replicator at 0710, and the lights to come on dimly at 0700 and gradually brighten to ship-normal over a ten minute period.   Last night he had met the Captain, moved into his assigned room, grabbed a quick bite to eat, and had then spent an hour familiarizing himself with the ship layout before calling it a night.   BJ checked his PADD for messages and then popped of a quick call to schedule an appointment with the head of OPS, Cattia Spero.  Then he put the PADD back on the night stand and began to stretch while waiting for the replicator to chime with his coffee.   BJ did some simple stretching exercises and then cranked out 3 sets of pushups, situps, leg squats, and jumping-jacks.  He had just finished his third set when the PADD dinged with an incoming message.  Ensign Spero had requested they meet in OPS at 0830.   BJ could hardly wait!  He requested soft music from the computer, dived into a hot shower, and then dressed for success - right down to the spit-polish shoes while sucking down another 3 cups of coffee.  BJ's quarters were on deck 4 so he popped the lift to deck 3 and headed over to Life Support and Operations.   As he entered OPS he saw a dark-haired female Betazoid with olive skin and dark eyes.   "Hi, I'm BJ Stone, and I'm hoping you are Cattia Spero?"  BJ asked as he offered his hand.   (Reply Cattia Spero, and maybe Montro?)   (Posted by Mike Barrett) (USS Mithrandir, Sickbay, CMO's Office - Acmo Ensign jg Ava McGregor - 11:00 hrs)   Ava had to admit it Dr Maxwell was gorgeous. A stunning specimen of a human male. ~Very easy on the eyes~  Unfortunately this was not a social call.   "We thought she had a simple inner ear infection," he was saying after the briefest of pleasantries. "but on investigations we came up with this." The screen flickered and rolled, the image shook as the Doctor thumbed his own terminal on the cramped and barely functional sickbay. Ava heard his muttered expletives and winced in sympathy. She did not envy the new Eden medical team or the conditions they were being forced to work under. The image on the screen settled as it split into two, it took a second for Ava to recognise what she was looking at.   Leaning forward in excitement she asked, " Is that a vestibular Schwannomas?"   "You certainly know your stuff Doctor," The smaller image of Doctor Maxwell complimented her with a charming grin.   "How big are we talking about?"   "46mm" The doctor admitted, adding bad news onto worse. "Her intercranial pressure is increasing, the tumor is pressing on her brain stem. That we can control but she really needs surgery....its a very delicate procedure."   Ava took the hint, grey eyes twinkled, "My surgical suite is your surgical suite, Dr Maxwell."   "Please, David is fine. And thank you..."   "Ava."  Was the acting CMO guilty of eyelash fluttering?  Not so that she would admit to herself.   (Reply any/none) (posted by Jodie) (U.S.S. Mithrandir - Sickbay, BJ Stone 1130)   Still new to the ship, BJ was scrambling to take care of those initial duties one normally goes through as a new crew member.  Earlier this morning he had had an opportunity to meet his department head and get an idea of the expectations for him plus a good tour of the ship.  He had been pleased to meet Cattia Spero.  She seemed extremely competent and BJ could sense her love of the Mithrandir.  There were some people that didn't understand that star ships have a soul.  Free Traders imbibed that knowledge with their mother’s milk.   The tour had been a little longer than he had planned and he had actually had to cut it short so he could make his 1130 appointment for a checkup at sickbay.  BJ popped the lift to deck 2 and entered sickbay right on time.   Standing next to a counter was a very attractive blond human woman with fair skin who looked up from her PADD as he entered the room.   BJ walked over to her and extended his hand in greeting.  "Hi, I'm Barnie Stone and I have an eleven-thirty appointment in sickbay.  Are you Ava McGregor?"   (Reply Ava, any in Sickbay)   (Posted by Mike Barrett) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – ACSO Martzia - 1338)   "Wow, so in essence you are talking about reproduction via shattering the crystal matrix? What actually causes growth of the crystalline shards?"   "That is a good question. You see it has to do with the temperature, magnetic fluctuations, and energy absorption…" She went on for a bit and then looked up and dug a nugget out of her memory of a class she had taken. "Yes, back in 2008, I believe, was the first discovery of this phenomenon. A group of students was studying it using glass, quite appropriate for us. They watched the reactions while applying fluctuating magnetic fields and found the crystals would actually grow into the different fractal dimensions. In that case it was inert material and not an energy absorbing entity. That makes all the difference of course." She paused, "I could show you some of the calculations in the lab if you like sometime. I proved, theoretically, how the crystalline entity being made up of a material similar, of course far more specialized than glass, would have accomplished it. That actually it can be proven to not die but multiply." She went on with her explanation. She was so impressed with the Ops officer's honest interest.   The conversation went on for a few minutes her explaining and them chatting back and forth.  "BJ, I appreciate your interest." She looked at him and her eyes gleamed with copper flashes. "What do you do to occupy yourself when you're not on duty?" She smiled big and sat forward in her seat with full attention set on him.   (Reply, Stone) (Posted by Ber) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – AOPS/CONN BJ Stone - - 1340)   BJ and Matzia were discussing her research on the crystalline entity and the subject absolutely fascinated him.  As she walked him through her project and studies and shared with him some of her theories on the subject BJ could not help to notice her passion. ~ Passion - that's what makes serving in Starfleet so awesome.  Almost everyone I meet is self-driven - they are not just going through the daily grind.  They are taking life and getting everything they can from it.  I love the Free Traders Society and everything about being a keel-owner of a family ship but the type of passion that is typical of the people I meet in Starfleet was never the norm in the FTS.~   Matzia's eyes flashed with passion as she talked about her work.   The conversation went on for a few minutes her explaining and them chatting back and forth.  "BJ, I appreciate your interest."  She looked at him and her eyes gleamed with copper flashes.  "What do you do to occupy yourself when you're not on duty?"  She smiled big and sat forward in her seat with full attention set on him.   "Ummm.  Duty and play are almost the same for me," BJ replied with a laugh.  "I mean, I love my job and the field of Operations.  I'm kind of a jack-of-all-trades, so working with the transporter system one day and tracing down a problem with environmental on deck 3 the next day is the best part of the job.  I'm always busy - there's always something new to learn - and I meet people from all the different departments - I just really like everything about it.  BJ was leaning into the discussion now, his blue eyes gleaming as he spoke.  I really enjoy working with the different systems, learning how they work, studying the intent of the design and seeing if I can tweek it a little.  My sister always says I am natural tinkerer - it is kind of a family joke between us - but she is right.  I don't think I'm ever happier then when elbow-deep in a project and trying to squeeze the most I can out of it."   BJ leaned back a little and opened his arms as if to take in the room, the crew members, and the great view of the stars.  The timber of his voice changed with just a little trace of awe as he spoke.  "And what better place could a person be then in space, on a ship like the Mithrandir?"  You see, I was born amongst the stars, a Free Trader by birth.  To travel, to meet other people, to see other worlds - that's the other part of being in Starfleet that is so cool.  And shore leave!  To plant my feet on a planet I've never been on before, to see, hear, feel, and touch a new society and sample culture that I've only read about until that moment.  To barter with a shop keeper over the price of a cool drink - I mean - these are some of the best fringe-benefits of being in Starfleet!"   BJ looked into Matzia's eyes and smiled warmly.  He leaned forward again as he spoke.  "And when I'm not engrossed in work I like to wind down with something physical that pushes me."  BJ smiled again as he remembered fun times and close friends that he had met while on Earth.  "While I was in the Academy on Earth I joined a fairly adventurous group of jocks.  They had a good time introducing me to challenges that just aren't available to someone that has spent his life aboard a ship as a Free Trader.  I discovered that I like to swim, hike, and go bouldering - so I'm really glad we have a holodeck."   BJ paused to take a sip of water and then placed the glass back on the table.  "And once I've familiarized myself with the ship and crew I'll see if there are any musicians amongst us.  I play both the harmonica and the guitar well and it's fun to jam with other enthusiasts."   "I also like to dance," BJ said with another smile and a shrug of his shoulders.  "That's probably not a very masculine thing to say but - I like to just kind of go with the music and let it flow.  I don't know why but I just always feel good when I'm playing music or dancing to a good song."   BJ looked again into Martzia's copper-flecked eyes.  BJ found he was enjoying her company and he looked forward to getting to know her better.  He suspected that Matzia was what he liked to call 'good people' - high praise in his vocabulary.  First impressions were often hard to go by but he suspected they would both have ample opportunity to get to know each other better while on the Mithrandir.  "How about you?  What do you like to do with your free time?" (Reply, Martzia) (Posted by Mike Barrett) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – ACSO Martzia - 1345)   "I also like to dance," BJ said with another smile and a shrug of his shoulders. "That's probably not a very masculine thing to say but - I like to just kind of go with the music and let it flow. I don't know why but I just always feel good when I'm playing music or dancing to a good song." "Oh no, where I come from the of the men dance, alone, mixed groups, and sometimes just together!" Martzia laughed. "The community still holds some of the traditional practices. It keeps our culture rich and strong. I dance mostly folk and freestyle but love learning new tricks." She paused and took another deep drink of her tea. She looked around the room at the others sitting at the tables and suddenly she seemed to spark, almost visible. "Listen, I would love to hear you play. Would you like to try and get together later in the deck four officer's lounge? I am sure we can find other's to pull in and relax a bit."   (Stone)   "If you can make it I will be there around say 1700? Any change in schedule just let me know. I am always open, especially for friends." Martzia's PADD flashed, she glanced at it for a moment. "I have to be off for in a bit. I want to thank you for the advice about the holodeck. I will get with you on more details of course. Also, BJ, you have an open invitation to visit my labs and look me up anytime. I have greatly enjoyed our meal and the company even better." She stood and held out her hand. As she turned to leave she saw Tommy just at the next table looking at her. "Yes, Tommy, and you too." She tapped him on his nose and walked out of the Hard2Port.   (Reply Stone) (Posted by Ber) (USS Mithrandir – Hard2Port – AOPS/CONN BJ Stone -p;- 1347) "I also like to dance," BJ said with another smile and a shrug of his shoulders.  "That's probably not a very masculine thing to say but - I like to just kind of go with the music and let it flow.  I don't know why but I just always feel good when I'm playing music or dancing to a good song." "Oh no, where I come from the of the men dance, alone, mixed groups, and sometimes just together!"  Martzia laughed.  "The community still holds some of the traditional practices.  It keeps our culture rich and strong.   I dance mostly folk and freestyle but love learning new tricks."  She paused and took another deep drink of her tea.  She looked around the room at the others sitting at the tables and suddenly she seemed to spark, almost visible.  "Listen, I would love to hear you play.  Would you like to try and get together later in the deck four officer's lounge?  I am sure we can find other's to pull in and relax a bit."   "Sure, that sounds like fun," replied BJ.  "And it'll be a great opportunity to meet more of the crew and help me put names to faces.  Very cool idea Martzia."   "If you can make it I will be there around say 1700?  Any change in schedule just let me know.  I am always open, especially for friends." Martzia's PADD flashed, she glanced at it for a moment.  "I have to be off for in a bit.  I want to thank you for the advice about the holodeck.  I will get with you on more details of course.  Also, BJ, you have an open invitation to visit my labs and look me up anytime.  I have greatly enjoyed our meal and the company even better."  She stood and held out her hand. As she turned to leave she saw Tommy just at the next table looking at her.  "Yes, Tommy, and you too." She tapped him on his nose and walked out of the Hard2Port. "1700 sounds good to me.  And you can count on me taking you up on that invitation for checking out the labs or hooking up to go play," BJ said as he stood up and took her hand.  "I really enjoyed your company also; thanks for snagging me for a lunch mate," he said with a warm grin.   BJ gave a hand to Tommy also.  "It was a pleasure to meet you also Tommy Tucker.  Since you probably know most of the crew, if you run into anyone that plays musical instruments and would like to get into an impromptu jam session, please feel free to pass the word - 1700 in the officer's lounge on deck 4."    Bj paused for a moment as he played back Mei Ling's warning regarding citrus fruit and Tommy.  ~Maybe I can talk Mei Ling into letting me slip Tommy an orange slice or two for a private jam session.  Tommy might know a few songs that I don't know - and the bawdy songs always tend to be favorites amongst the crews of tramp freighters and trade ships.  And who knows - maybe Tommy sings well but just sings songs of poor taste...~   BJ smiled again at Tommy and then followed Martzia out of Hard2Port.   (Posted by Mike Barrett)  (SS Wanderlust - Civilian sector 44 - ATac Ensign Ben Soma-1600)   Ben was disappointed that he had been unable to locate Durean's sister, it seemed that she had fallen through the cracks somehow. The young man was upset, and Ben understood why. After he learned about what happened to his family he was a little upset too. Sooner or later they would find his sister somewhere, everyone had been evacuated from the planet, it was just a matter of time before they found her. A couple of the Civilians expressed concern over the missing girl and tried to comfort the young man in different ways. He had been quiet since Ben had broken the news to him, he was probably in shock.   All of a sudden there was a commotion coming from the area of the main door. People were shouting, and it was hard to make out what was being said because a dozen voices were yelling at once. Ben got up from where he had been sitting and walked towards the noise to see just what was happening. When he rounded the corner he saw a group of civilians facing off with a couple blue shirts. It seemed that things were heating up quickly because one of the civilians punched one of the blueshirts. After that swing things got out of hand quickly, within mere moments there was an all out brawl at the door.   Ben ran towards the battle and tried to get the attention of the combatants, but no one was interested in listening to him, they reminded Ben of a group of sharks in a feeding frenzy. People where jumping all over the place as throwing punches when an opportunity presented itself. The blueshirts were out numbered, and taking quite the beating. Ben had to do something, so he grabbed a couple of civilians who had pinned a blueshirt to the floor and where kicking him. He shoved both aside and tried to grab another when he was hit from behind. He tried to get them to stop fighting but it was futile, he had taken a couple good knocks himself after a few minutes.   Things were looking bad for the blueshirts, the civilians seemed to be coming from everywhere. For everyone Ben pulled off another two seemed to spring up. Not wanting to see anyone severely injured or killed, he decided he had to take more drastic steps to end the fighting. He did not want to injure the civilians but they were leaving him with little choice. Knowing about the bodies pressure points he was able to knock out several civilians. Many were still fighting but after witnessing what he was doing a few had stepped back, for them the fight was over. When he thought things were going to change he was jumped from behind, by they weight he felt on his back a couple people had jumped him. The floor rushed up to meet him and the last thing he remembered before blacking out was feeling a boot connect with his rib cage.   (reply Lanista, any on Wanderlust) (posted by Milo) (USS Mithrandir – Officer's Lounge deck 4 – ACSO Martzia – 1800 ) Martzia walked into the lounge after she finished in the physics lab. She was looking forward to meeting some of the people on board the Mithrandir in a more relaxed setting. BJ she knew played a couple of instruments and there were bound to be other's that enjoyed the same.  She had been on the ship only a 48 hours and had already met and made friends with at least two crew members and one little other friend.  She actually hoped Tommy showed up and felt he had the capability to liven up any gathering.    Earlier that day she had posted an announcement with the recreation coordinator on board the ship and been assured that the notice would go out to all the proper people. Martzia had asked if it could also be opened for visiting guests and was told it would have to be approved but if it was that too would be done. She walked across the room and took a seat across from the door. The lounge was fairly busy but not full. She sat and waited for any arrivals.   (Reply, Anyone) (Posted by Ber) (USS Mithrandir – Outside Officer's Lounge deck 4 – Crewman Morgan Randell– 16, 1805 )   Morgan was standing outside the officers lounge on deck four but could hear nothing coming from within. He received the general invitation and figured it was a good way to mingle with some of the crew. After transferring to the Mithrandir from the Dennison he hadn't taken any time to meet any of the new crewmembers, for that matter he didn't know that many of the old crew. It was time for a change, this gathering would give him a chance to mix and meet some of the crew. Since he couldn't hear anything inside the room he assumed that no one was here yet, or there wasn't many inside. Those that were inside were probably waiting for others to join them before they got things swinging.   Walking into the doors sensor pick up he waited for them to slide open so he could enter the room and join the party. When the doors parted he saw a woman sitting across from the doors, someone whom he had never seen before. This must be a new transfer, he probably should have at least checked the roster so he would have a couple names to put with the faces he was going to see. Walking over to her he introduced himself.   "I'm Crewman Morgan Randell from engineering. Looks like a little early for the festivities." (reply Maritza, any) (posted by Milo) (USS Mithrandir – Outside Officer's Lounge deck 4 – ACSO Martzia– 16, 1806 )   As Martzia took her seat she placed the carafe she had brought from her quarters on the table along with some other delicacies. She had a love for sharing and since she had been greatly rewarded for her many investments seemed to never be in short supply. As she opened the larger of the two containers she pulled out a few layers of K'tarian chocolates and nuts then looked around and saw a gentleman approaching. A well built man in an Engineering Department uniform. She hadn't remembered seeing him yet but then she had only been on board for a day and a half.   "I'm Crewman Morgan Randell from engineering. Looks like a little early for the festivities."   "Hello, I am Martzia Kosman, Science. You're not really too early just getting is jump started for us." Martzia stood, she hated sitting anyway and especially with new people likely to arrive. "Have a seat if you like or you’re welcome to stand with me. Would you like a glass of Bajoran Springwine? It is not replicated, but from a vineyard not far from my place on Bajor. Kala assured me it was some of her best." Martzia lifted the bottle and took a glass from the shelf against the wall. (Randell) "So, have you been with the Mithrandir long? I just arrived." Martzia asked.   (Reply, Randell) (Anyone else is free to arrive) (Posted by Ber) (USS Mithrandir – Officcer's Lounge deck 4 – AOPS/CONN BJ Stone– 16, 1810)    BJ popped in to the Officer's Lounge on Deck 4 with a guitar case in one hand and a small case of Chardonnay from the Flora Springs Winery of Napa Valley.  He had stumbled upon the winery on a cross-country bicycle run with friends while at the Academy on earth.   BJ noted there were already several people in the room already, which pleased him.  BJ saw Martzia standing next to a table with blond-haired, blue-eyed human male that had the thin, wiry build of a rock climber.   "Hi Martzia," BJ said with a grin and a wink as he walked up to the two.  "I thought I'd bring a few bottles of Napa Valley wine that I picked up on earth."   BJ gave a polite nod to the other person and then placed the small case of 4 bottles on the table where someone had placed of few trays of snacks.  This freed up a hand so he could offer it in greeting to the crewman.   "Hi, I'm BJ, the new Assistant Operations officer slash CONN officer," Barnie said as he offered his hand in greeting to the crewman.   (Reply Martzia, Randell, any)   BJ pulled out a small lime from his pocket and tossed it up in the air a few times.  He had that I'm-a-naughty-boy look in his eyes as he looked at Martzia and Randell.  "I brought this with me, just in case Mei Ling and Tommy show up," he said with a mischievous grin.    (Reply, Martzia, Randell) (Anyone else is free to arrive) (Posted by Mike Barrett) (USS Mithrandir – Officer's Lounge deck 4 – ACSO Martzia– 16, 1811 ) Martzia looked over the crewman's head and saw BJ enter the room.  She eyed him as he walked towards her, he had an easy kind of feel about him.  He set a case on the table and greeted them in his relaxed style. "Hi Martzia," BJ said with a grin and a wink as he walked up to the two.  "I thought I'd bring a few bottles of Napa Valley wine that I picked up on earth."  BJ gave a polite nod to the other person and then placed the small case of 4 bottles on the table where someone had placed of few trays of snacks.  This freed up a hand so he could offer it in greeting to the crewman.   "Hi, I'm BJ, the new Assistant Operations officer slash CONN officer," Barnie said as he offered his hand in greeting to the crewman.  As she watched the two greet each other and exchange information.  The group in the far corner started to pull out instruments.  "I brought this with me, just in case Mei Ling and Tommy show up," Bj said with a mischievous grin. "Oh, BJ you didn't!"  She laughed as she watched.  She had a thing for naughty boys.  "Did you talk to Mei Ling?  I hope she allows him to come.  Tommy could be the life of the party."  She looked in the case.  "So you brought some wine wonderful."  "Excuse me for just a moment."  Turning away from the two men Martzia tapped her com badge, "Lanista, are you going to make it to the gathering?  It wouldn't be the same without you." (Reply Lanista) (Reply, anyone, BJ or Randell) (Posted by Ber) (USS Mithrandir – Officer's Lounge deck 4 – Crewman Morgan Randell– 16, 1812 )    Morgan was about to accept the drink that Martzia had offered when they were joined by young man who introduced himself as the new AOPS/CONN. He called himself BJ. Morgan nodded and extended his hand.   "I'm Morgan Randell, Engineering officer. I don't get out of engineering much so I thought this would be a good opportunity to mingle with the crew and get to meet some of them. Martzia just asked me if I was on the Mithrandir long, I have been on her since she shipped out. Which hasn't been all that long, this is her first mission under Captain Stakes command."   It was still early and only a few people were in the lounge, Morgan didn't recognise any of them. He wasn't sure how long he would stay, there wasn't really anything he had to do in the next hour or so. He decided that he would converse with BJ and Martzia for a while and see where the conversation lead. BJ had mentioned Tommy and Mei Ling, Mei Ling me knew by sight and reputation. He had no idea who Tommy was.   "Forgive my ignorance but who is Tommy?" Morgan asked BJ and Martzia.   (reply BJ, Martzia, any) (posted by Milo) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission Wagon Train Amongst the Stars Stardate 2408.06.23 Day 17 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<  (USS Mithrandir – Holodeck 1 – ACSO Martzi - 0500)   After her visit with the counselor and Ensign Stone she had managed to get a scheduled spot on the Holodeck for early morning hours. She was glad for the opportunity and 0400 was not too early for her at all. She stood in front of the Holo-deck computer programming in her favorite place and activity. She took out the programming slip and entered. "Ha, home." She walked to the edge of the cliff and stared out across the deep valley and watched as the birds soared and swooped. She turned and walked to the stead that was awaited her arrival.   A large black Arabian with a white star on his face and a elliptical white ring on his left hind quarter stood and allowed her to stroke him lovingly, the stamping foot greeted her and said he was eager for their activities. He was glistening blue under the high yellow sun. Rubbing him gently and confirming to him how beautiful and regal he looked today, she mounted. She adjusted in the saddle and he welcomed her with a raise to his two hind legs and upon bringing them down took off. Speeding across the plain at a speed only attained by the best of his breed they became as one. The cadence of the ride felt like second nature to her and she dreamed of being on Shichar for real. Alas he sat in a stable some tens of thousands of light years away. Now he was getting regular exercise only by strangers. She closed that thought off and entered the dream.   As they flew across the flat dry red dirt and the constant rhythm of the horse's hoofs calmed the mind and helped her to focus on the past and future all at once. Her history and her future here and beyond melded as one. None of that mattered here and now. She could feel the air hit her face. The dust flew as he picked up more speed and she tucked into the horses back to aid in his effort. She could smell his skin and feel his sweat on her face. His muscles under her tensed and stretched, tensed and stretched and then suddenly he leaped through the air and took flight across a small gorge. Then the sudden landing and he never lost his stride or rhythm.   She began the process and slowly she took on broader shape and the feathers appeared farther down her back and from her flesh. Her arms became grew and morphed into wings, her legs into claws and she sprang from the stead's back and leapt into the hot air. She soared high directly to the sun and then dropped down passing the stead and the path they had just made across the plain. Then the valley appeared again and she dove sharply. Sailing on the wind and flapping her wings only occasionally she was air born. She could feel the freedom of the air's support under her large wing span, and then her eyes scanned the valley floor for prey. Then she spotted a desert rat unaware of its peril and dove again, deep and sharp. She became a diving missile with one goal and target.   The ground came up rapidly, she extending her talons, scooped up the prey and soared again, hauling it into the air. Success! After breaking its neck with a combination of talon and beak she deposited it into a waiting nest of hatchlings all eager for their latest meal. She stood in the large nest, ripping apart the treasure she ate some of the creature and regurgitated it within their open beaks and then left the rest of the carcass for them to practice eating on their own. They were not far from being taught to fly and this was skill they must learn alongside. The nestlings of eaglets would soon take their place in the program.   Again, she lifted herself onto the currents, soared high and landed again on the high plateau next to Shichar's double. She looked out over the vast area of caves and valleys little shrub and sand. It was her home. Looking to the west she could see from her position Jerusalem and she thought of Bubbe and her dishes served with fresh wine from the northern vineyards. To the NW where she knew Tel Aviv and she thought of her visits to the beach. The Dead Sea was just south and she stood in New Jericho. She shifted form once more and stood next to the horse that was recovering from his run and he greeted her with nods of his head and bumped her side as if to say, "Let's go again." She mounted and obliged the animal's desire. They played for the next hour then at last they took off once more for the edge of the cliff. They went headlong at top speed and stopped just short of going over the edge. Together they both looked once more over the high plateau, she lovingly patted the beautiful steed, and dismounted. "Computer, end program." she stated. Then she exited the holo-deck and headed for the showers.   (Reply, none) (Posted by Ber) (USS Mithrandir - TwoPort - Acmo Ensign (jg) Ava McGregor Day 17 -1035)   "*No* ice cream! I can cater for up to thirty people at a sit-down meal, a lot more if it's a buffet. With such short notice I can't really do specialty food, I'm afraid Lani will have to do without her gagh and there will only be synthehol available. How many people do you expect?"   Ava blinked, she had not thought it over really. She was still getting over the ice cream story, now that was a party she would not have minded being in the middle of, it sounded like a lot of fun. That was another black mark against the captain, how could anyone even contemplate shooting such a cutiepie as Tommy. Come to that, how could such a man father someone as lovely as Esme. ~The mind boggles~   Slim shoulder shrugged, "Oh I don't know, say forty? Or maybe fifty just to be on the safe side." The doctor pursed her lips thinking, "Would it be possible to have a holo string quartet? It's nicer than just plan piped music...give people something to comment on when there is a lull in conversation."   The doctor obviously had something elegant, even possibly sophisticated in mind. Perhaps missing the point totally as to who the majority of the guests would be.   (Reply Esme and Ling ) (Posted by Jodie)