Compiled by Calvin Capps ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto- 11:07) (USS Paladin - Main Engineering - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto- 11:30) (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, CEO Lt. Commander Sarouk, 11:32) (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto 11:34) (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, CEO, Lt. Commander Sarouk, 11:35) (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto, 11:40) (USS Paladin, COPS Office - ACEO LT JG Steven Matrix - 1601) (USS Paladin, COPS Office - COPS Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1604) (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari - 1623) (USS Paladin, Medical Research Facilities, Mission CMO Dr Rick O'Shea - 1623) (USS Paladin, Medical Research Facilities, CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 16:24) (USS Paladin, Medical Research Facilities, Mission CMO Dr Rick O'Shea - 16:24) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 16:25) (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - ACSO Ensign K'Palla - 1625) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 16:26) (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari - 1630) (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - ACSO Ensign K'Palla - 1632) (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 17:00) (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - ACEO LT JG Steven Matrix - 17:00) (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 17:02) (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CPALMS: ACEO Lieutenant (jg) Steven Matrix - 17:02) (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 17:03) (USS Paladin - Deck 24, Quarters of Ensign Conaty - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto - 1914) (USS Paladin - Deck 24, Quarters of Ensign Conaty - Security Officer, Ensign Natalie Conaty - 1920) (USS Paladin - Deck 24, Quarters of Ensign Conaty - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto - 1922) (USS Paladin - ACMO Whetari's Quarters - Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari - 2045) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Security Chiefs Office - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto- 11:07) "What is the meaning of this!!", came the outburst at Sam’s rather rude arrival into the Lt’s office. Sam hadn’t been thinking, and entering a superior’s officers office, especially when they were Klingon, without being invited in, was not a good idea or the correct way to behave. But Sam was agitated, and he was only doing what he had been ordered so he snapped back. “I brought the requested team listings, sir. Or would you preffer me to be late?” Sam may have been a little to confrontational here, but ity wax the truth, and at this poin the didn‘t entirely care. And as Sam predicted, Kerge only seemed to get more angry, Slamming his fist on the desk, an Sam heard, in between the Klingon Swearing, “Not good enough…” and “if this were a Klingon Ship…” and something about the brig, but Sam could barely make it out, as he was concentrating more on the fact that the towering Klingon had rose off his seat and seemed ready to confront Sam physically, something he did not find appealing with any hot blooded Klingon. Thankfully, Kerge began to calm down and noting, ~almost to himself~ Sam thought, that they were on board a Federation and not Klingon Vessel, he sat back down, snatching the PADD’s in Sam’s hand and began to read through his and Nat’s work. He gestured vaguely for Sam to take a seat. And for a while he sat, whilst the Lt meticulously looked through the data. Sam began to feel a little more at ease as he saw the Lt’s nods of approval as he read down the lists, he no longer feared for his health. Suddenly Kerge looked Sam dead in the eye. "Explain to me your motivation for choosing Lieutenant Marjok to lead Beta". This question seemed very challenging, but Sam could see a hint of a smirk, and a glint in the Lt’s otherwise glaring _expression, and he wasn’t sure that the answer was what he was after. “As I did not know any of the security personnel aboard the Paladin, I requested that Ensign Conaty assist me, as she would more likely know the best candidates for certain roles in each team, without me needing to read the entire records of every member of security aboard this ship. She indicated he may be good for the role, and I then briefly read through his service history, which was spotless, and highlighted him as a strong leader, which seemed appropriate for this mission ahead. The Lt. Grunted as Sam put across his argument, and Sam thought he could see the Lt. Trying to work out something, like his next comeback perhaps, but Klingon’s were hard to read, and he maintained a glaring _expression as he sat opposite Sam. "Why not Versale, or T'urak, they have experience in the field also & both have the additional experience of extended combat awareness" barked Kerge as Sam finished. He half saw something like this coming, and had already got the answer for it. “Indeed they do sir, but to my knowledge and judgement, I did not feel combat would be a major role in our duties planet side, at least only as a last resort, and Marjok has had previous experience at public relations and working with frighten citizens. He would be less likely to resort to engaging in combat, and more likely to try and resolve things peacefully. Setting a good example for his team. In my experience in these kind of situations, people stick to what they know when they aren’t sure, and I combat hardened personnel will more likely turn to force.” Sam seemed to answer correctly and the Lt nodded, and his glaring _expression was now gone, ~probably looking for my reaction,~ Sam thought. He was sure about his choices, and he was pretty sure so was Kerge, although the Klingon never did like to make life easy for Sam. "Marjok it is then, have the teams assembled, brief their command operatives & also their second in commands, nobody must be uncertain of their roles in this operation". Continued the Lt. In front of Sam. "Make sure any equipment needed by the security teams is ready also, BDU`s, weapons & such plus any environmental protocols we need to be aware of in order to protect ourselves from this virus" Sam’s heart sank, he had hoped that he would be given some time to himself, so he could talk to Nat, but it looked like he would be busy for the rest of the day making these arrangements now. “I’ll get straight to it Sir. It will be crucial that everyone knows what they have to do. I just hope engineering isn’t too busy with repairs from the battle to have time to check the equipment. We cant have our security personnel becoming contaminated.” Kerge seemed agitated by this. "A despicable thing it is to have to defend yourself against an unseen enemy” he paused, "what honour is there in dying from a foe you cannot see or inflict pain against". He seemed to be talking himself more than Sam, but it did amuse him, ~spoken like a true Klingon~, he thought. For a while Kerge seemed to be thinking, and Sam sat, opposite, waiting for him to add to his assignments for today. Then the Lt. Turned to him. "So tell me Ensign, is it a woman?" This was entirely unexpected from the Man who had looked like he was going to hang him out the airlock only 10 minutes or so ago. And the pat on the shoulder seemed a bit patronising, And Sam wasn’t quite sure how Kerge knew anything was wrong, especially why! “What do you mean sir?” Kerge Laughed, "The reason you arrived in my office in the manner you did" before laughing again, "from my experience only a female could instil such reaction as that displayed by yourself upon your arrival". “Ahh yes, that” Sam said regretfully. He was lucky not to have been given disciplinary action for that, and now he saw that the consequences with this officer could have been severe. “It appears you are a good judge of character. I’m afraid it is a woman, and I think I’ve just complicated matters. And I really am at a loss as to what to do. But I know what I feel, but I don’t know what she does. I thought she felt the same, but things happened and now I‘m not sure.” Kerge suddenly became like a concerned best friend, and proceeded, to Sam’s amusement, to give advice. "My advice Mr Moto, take the woman, make her yours, if she has initiated an interest then leave her no choice in the matter, in Klingon society this is our way". Sam Nearly laughed, but knew that it would not be a good time to do so, and also, the Man was only trying to help him. “I’m not sure in this instance that that would work, and in Human society that can be seen as very disrespectful, and I would probably get a slap and a kick in the genitals for even trying such a method, But I’m thankful for your advice, if I’m ever in position to act in such a way.” Sam said with the purest intentions of not trying to offend the Lt. He was glad to see that he laughed at Sam’s naivety and sense of humour. "I could tell you tales you would never believe Ensign Moto,” He began, seating himself. “but another time..... go now, attend to your duties, I will offer your list to the Captain for her final approval but consider it accepted for now, you will be informed of any variations if they arise." Thankfully, Sam did not have to listen to these stories just yet, he feared he would have to wait until some party involving a fair bit of alcohol before that day, but he was in doubt that one day he would be the recipient of such tales. “I shall get to it sir. And hopefully I shall return in a slightly more professional manner next time we meet.” Sam then turned and exited the office, and made for engineering, the map Nat gave him in his hand. (Posted by Nick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Main Engineering - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto- 11:30) Sam had managed to find his way through the maze of corridors and turbo lifts to main engineering. As the doors slid apart, he gazed in aw at the three Warp cores towering above him. He had never seen cores this large before, yet alone three in one room. He stood there for a few moments, staring high and looking around at the cores. Only one was fully operating at the moment, it pulsed bright blue light rapidly. The one to the left was also pulsing, but at a much slower rate. The final core stood dark, like a sleeping giant. It wasn’t until a young ensign came across to him and interrupted his sight seeing that Sam remembered why he was here. “Can I help you sir?” The young ensign questioned, seemingly challenging as Sam invaded his space, especially since everyone was stretched for the next mission, Sam supposed that people didn’t like sightseers. “Ahh yes, sorry, its my first trip down to engineering. I was looking for your CEO, I believe it is Lt. Sarouk, although I’m not to sure on names at the moment.” Sam replied, getting down to business, he dint want to waste time today, especially after what had happened earlier. “Right this way then.” the engineer replied, and he motioned for Sam to follow him across engineering, which, as with most places in this ship, as unusually large. (posted by Nick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, CEO Lt. Commander Sarouk, 11:32) Sarouk turned from the Master System Display console as a crewman called his name, a young Ensign in tow behind them. Sarouk quickly recognized the young Ensign as the ATAC\ASC. Sarouk placed his hands loosely behind his back. "What can I do you for Ensign Moto?" Sarouk asked. (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto 11:34) Ahh, Commander Sarouk, I don’t believe we have been properly introduced, I am ATAC/ASC Sam Moto, it is a pleasure to meet you. (Reply: Sarouk) Ahh yes, it is official business I’m here for. I was hoping you could spare a couple of engineer teams to check over all the equipment required by security personnel once we reach the planet. I will also have security officers assisting in this, but I feel it is crucial that we have an expert eye on all the equipment, on such a crucial mission. (Reply: Sarouk) I have course have a complete list of all equipment, which includes the BDU’s, environmental add ons, Argo class light transports, shuttles, weapons, etc, that I cannot afford to be faulty or malfunction, as it could put my security teams and others in danger. (posted by Sam) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, CEO, Lt. Commander Sarouk, 11:35) "Ahh, Commander Sarouk, I don’t believe we have been properly introduced, I am ATAC/ASC Sam Moto, it is a pleasure to meet you," Ensign Moto said as he stepped up in front of Sarouk. Sarouk inclined his head slightly in way of greeting as he regarded the young Ensign. "I am very busy Ensign," Sarouk said, "are you here on official business?" "Ahh yes, it is official business I’m here for. I was hoping you could spare a couple of engineer teams to check over all the equipment required by security personnel once we reach the planet. I will also have security officers assisting in this, but I feel it is crucial that we have an expert eye on all the equipment, on such a crucial mission." "Do you have a list of the equipment you would liked checked?" Sarouk asked, grabbing a PADD from off the MSD table. "I of course have a complete list of all equipment, which includes the BDU’s, environmental add on's, Argo class light transports, shuttles, weapons, etc, that I cannot afford to be faulty or malfunction, as it could put my security teams and others in danger." "Transfer the list to this PADD and I will assign an engineering team to look the equipment over and send you a report. Will that be satisfactory?" Sarouk replied, handing Moto the PADD. (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Main Engineering, ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto, 11:40) No need sir I already have all the equipment listed here, he said presenting a PADD that he had recently transferred all the appropriate files to, I also have a list of the security staff that will be assisting in the checks, each knows that they will be under your supervision during this task. “I shall await a report then sir! Until then, I will leave you to your business at hand. Thank you again Lt. Commander.” And with that Sam headed for the door, and looked down at the next stop on his list. (posted by Nick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, COPS Office - ACEO LT JG Steven Matrix - 1601) "I'll mark Holodeck 16 off limits, until I hear back from you that you are done with it. As far as issues go, I just request that if you are going to be increasing power draws for more than 15 or so minutes, that you let me know so I can make adjustments accordingly. Also, I've set up Cargobay three as an infectious disease lab for Dr. O'Shea. In your repairs and adjustments, please make sure that there aren't any power or life support surges or failures to that bay, I so don't want to have to explain it to Dr. O'Shea." Michael said with a grin. "Once your done with the upgrades, just let me know and I'll get you and the rest of engineering, new power distribution and usage maps. Other than that, I don't think there should be any issues, unless you need a ton more power to those systems than they are already getting, Sir." Michael said, putting down the PADD. Matrix smiled, "Agreed. I'll keep you informed if we anticipate any power draws. I'm planning on agmenting the power feeds using the third warp cell for testing. Of course we're going to test this via the holodeck first." (Reply O'Connor) "If you'd like to assign a few of your own team members they are welcome to do some virtual testing too. I'll leave that to you." said Matrix. (Reply O'Connor) "Well Ensign, I've taken enough of your time for now. I'm off to Ten Forward for an early dinner, then back to engineering. Thanks for your time and I'll keep you posted." (posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, COPS Office - COPS Ensign (sg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1604) Matrix smiled, "Agreed. I'll keep you informed if we anticipate any power draws. I'm planning on augmenting the power feeds using the third warp cell for testing. Of course we're going to test this via the holodeck first." "Sounds like a plan," Michael said as he made a few more notes on his PADD. "If you'd like to assign a few of your own team members they are welcome to do some virtual testing too. I'll leave that to you." said Matrix. "I'll take a look at the roster for the upcoming shifts and see who's available to run through the tests with you. I'll send their names ahead once I have a few people set." "Well Ensign, I've taken enough of your time for now. I'm off to Ten Forward for an early dinner, then back to engineering. Thanks for your time and I'll keep you posted." M "Thanks, Sir. Have a good dinner, I'll let you know about the Ops crew for your testing. Have a nice Evening, sir." Michael said, as the Lieutenant walked out the door. Looking back down at his PADD he made a few more notes before going back to work. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari - 1623) While Dr. O'Shea spoke to the Lieutenant that arrived, Nissa noticed that Ensign K'Palla had moved closer to her. "I appreciate your input. It is helpful and quite welcome!" The Klingon science officer said with a smile. Nissa nodded bashfully, holding her hand out in the traditional Terran greeting. “Thank you for saying so; I’m still a bit nervous here on the ship.” She explained, wondering why it was she could come up with clever retorts and frequently challenge the most demanding doctors at Harvard, but she felt silly and childlike on this ship. “I was just assigned here from the Academy – I’m Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari.” "I am K'Palla, daughter of Da'Gor! It is an honor to meet you!" Klingon woman's smile grew a bit wider. She seemed genuinely friendly and Nissa, though shy, always enjoyed meeting and talking to new people. “It is an honor to make your acquaintance, K’Palla, daughter of Da’Gor.” Nissa said with a smile, looking over at Dr. O’Shea and the Lieutenant, who she took to be a science officer. “I hope you don’t feel too uncomfortable, being the science officer down here with us medical folk.” NIssa sympathized. "I believe the Terran term is being between a rock and a hard place." K'Palla replied. "Captain Straton assigned me here directly to report to Doctor O'Shea as the Science Dept liaison, but I am obligated to my CO, Lt Brownlee! I am glad that they chose to compare notes directly instead of going through me!" ~Ahhh...so this is the CSO, Lt. Brownlee,~ Nissa deduced, wondering if she could be sure she was right. ~Don't want to look silly, so I'll wait until I'm introduced.~ "It always makes me feel a bit uncomfortable to act as a liaison, though I'm sure that both Dr. O'Shea and Lt. Brownlee are appreciative of the job you are doing. I, for one, am glad to have a genetics expert here with us.” (Reply K’Palla iyw) As they spoke, Dr. Keller walked over to Nissa and K’Palla, holding his hand out to the latter. "Ensign it's good having you working with us, it looks like you have a good head on your shoulders and unless I miss my guess we'll need every one we can find before this is over." Dr. Keller said. "Thank you, sir. I am honored to have been chosen to assist in the research." K’Palla responded.. "I am anxious to view an actual sample of the virus. My hope is to catch it in the act of mutating, so that a marker can be easily identified." (Reply Keller, K’Palla iyw and there is a chance) Before Nissa had the chance to add her thoughts, something from the direction of Dr. O’Shea and Lt. Brownlee caught her attention. (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Medical Research Facilities, Mission CMO Dr Rick O'Shea - 1623) "Doctor, does the planet have any strategic or possibly any other value other than as a residence for the colonists?" she asked. Rick shrugged. "Not that I'm aware of, though I dare say the Captain could tell us if that were so or not." "Doctor, as a Klingon, I'm looking at this from a warrior's viewpoint." K'Palla began. "If the planet has some value, whether it be commercial or military, and the presence of the colonists prevent that value from being exploited, then the removal of the colonists would be the most logical approach!" "That's true," Rick replied cautiously. "Though I'm not quite sure where you're going with this?" "What I'm getting at, Doctor, is that we shouldn't rule out the idea that the virus might be engineered." the Klingon stated. "We could be very well be dealing with a bio-weapon!" Rick nodded. "At this stage we shouldn't rule anything out," he agreed. "Although for now there are no indications that is the case." He tapped his marker against his teeth. "Perhaps once we get to the planet we'll have a better idea of what we're up against. However, I would assume that an engineered virus would only affect a part of the population. It's not easy to engineer a virus, particularly not one that mutates like this one appears to. And I would expect different species to be affected in different ways, which so far is not what we're seeing here. But as you so rightly said, we can't afford to rule anything out at this point in time." He stood deep in thought looking at the work the three of them had done so far, ideas turning in his head. "I hope I'm not interrupting?" Rick turned to see the CSO had entered, and sighed. ~Of course you're flippin' well interrupting!~ "Not at all, sir!" K'Palla barked. "I see. What diseases have you studied in relation to this so far?" The CSO asked calmly. "I've been studying the Terran anthrax bacteria, sir." the Klingon woman offered. "Since this disease started with livestock, I was hoping there might be a connection between the two." Brownlee then looked over at Rick. "Doctor, I have here a PADD with information on a similar disease that ravaged Earth 1,000 years ago. Pneumonic plague. The incubation period is more or less the same, as are the symptoms and the time from first symptoms till death. Do you think this could be it, however unlikely?" Rick looked at him, a surprised expression on his face. "My goodness, you do like to stick to an idea, don't you? Like a dog with a bone. What we're looking at here is a virus, Lt, not a bacterial infection. There is a difference. K'Palla here is studying the anthrax bacillus because it can infect both animals and humans. True, the plague bacillus or yersinia pestis as it is more correctly called can also affect both animals and humans; however, since there are no reports of rats infesting the homes of the colony, nor yet an outbreak of fleas, I doubt very much whether it is responsible. Quite apart from that, although there are superficial similarities between the incubation period, and the some of the symptoms, I have to point out that first, there are distinct signs of the virus - and viri are very different from bacilli, although to the non-medic they can be easily confused - mutating. Furthermore, there are also no reports of inflammation of the lymph nodes of any of the patients alive or dead, and to find an outbreak of the plague without at least some of the patients exhibiting those buboes is so rare as to be almost a certain sign it is not the cause. But the biggest reason to discount it as a theory is that all the data we have been given indicates a viral infection rather than a bacterial one, which seems to respond to no known treatments for either viral or bacteriological diseases. 'Plague' in all its forms is nowadays very easily dealt with; so easily that it would not be a threat even to a relatively small colony such as this one. In fact, I'd stake my reputation on it that we are NOT dealing with plague, bubonic plague, cellulocutaneous plague, pneumonic or pulmonic plague, meningeal plague, pharyngeal plague, or indeed septicaemic plague, abortive plague, asymptomatic plague or pestis minor . However as K'Palla also pointed out, it would be foolish to absolutely rule anything out whatsoever until we reach the planet and make our own assessment and examinations." He looked at the PADD in Brownlee's hands. "So I tell you what, you hang onto that PADD for now. And the very first dead rat or flea or bubo I find, I'll come and get it from you. Assuming, of course, that our extensive medical database proves to be unaccountably missing the information you have there." He turned back to the boards, then suddenly swung round again to give Brownlee a piercing look. "Oh, I nearly forgot. Thanks for the input. I'm sure that three experienced doctors and a well-qualified geneticist studying the reports and case notes from the colony are bound to miss a little thing like a possibility of an outbreak of an easily-cured bacteriological infection between them. Only next time, try not to interrupt us, eh? Just send the information in a message and when we take a break from working on the data we have that actually does relate to this outbreak, we'll take a look at it, OK? There's a good chap. Now run along and let us get on with what we were doing before we were interrupted. Or do you not know sarcasm when you hear it?" (posted by Liz) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Medical Research Facilities, CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 16:24) "Doctor, I have here a PADD with information on a similar disease that ravaged Earth 1,000 years ago. Pneumonic plague. The incubation period is more or less the same, as are the symptoms and the time from first symptoms till death. Do you think this could be it, however unlikely?" Doctor O'Shea looked over his shoulder at him, a surprised _expression on his face. "My goodness, you do like to stick to an idea, don't you? Like a dog with a bone. What we're looking at here is a virus, Lt, not a bacterial infection. There is a difference. K'Palla here is studying the anthrax bacillus because it can infect both animals and humans. True, the plague bacillus or yersinia pestis as it is more correctly called can also affect both animals and humans; however, since there are no reports of rats infesting the homes of the colony, nor yet an outbreak of fleas, I doubt very much whether it is responsible. Quite apart from that, although there are superficial similarities between the incubation period, and the some of the symptoms, I have to point out that first, there are distinct signs of the virus - and viri are very different from bacilli, although to the non-medic they can be easily confused - mutating. Furthermore, there are also no reports of inflammation of the lymph nodes of any of the patients alive or dead, and to find an outbreak of the plague without at least some of the patients exhibiting those buboes is so rare as to be almost a certain sign it is not the cause. But the biggest reason to discount it as a theory is that all the data we have been given indicates a viral infection rather than a bacterial one, which seems to respond to no known treatments for either viral or bacteriological diseases. 'Plague' in all its forms is nowadays very easily dealt with; so easily that it would not be a threat even to a relatively small colony such as this one. In fact, I'd stake my reputation on it that we are NOT dealing with plague, bubonic plague, cellulocutaneous plague, pneumonic or pulmonic plague, meningeal plague, pharyngeal plague, or indeed septicaemic plague, abortive plague, asymptomatic plague or pestis minor . However as K'Palla also pointed out, it would be foolish to absolutely rule anything out whatsoever until we reach the planet and make our own assessment and examinations. So I tell you what, you hang onto that PADD for now. And the very first dead rat or flea or bubo I find, I'll come and get it from you. Assuming, of course, that our extensive medical database proves to be unaccountably missing the information you have there. Oh, I nearly forgot. Thanks for the input. I'm sure that three experienced doctors and a well-qualified geneticist studying the reports and case notes from the colony are bound to miss a little thing like a possibility of an outbreak of an easily-cured bacteriological infection between them. Only next time, try not to interrupt us, eh? Just send the information in a message and when we take a break from working on the data we have that actually does relate to this outbreak, we'll take a look at it, OK? There's a good chap. Now run along and let us get on with what we were doing before we were interrupted. Or do you not know sarcasm when you hear it?" By this point, Joran's blood was boiling. "Well, Dr. I'm-too-much-of-a-pompous-A**-to-listen-to-an-alternative- viewpoint, all possibilities should be explored, no matter how unlikely. I was just trying to help." He slammed the PADD on the desk, possibly rupturing a few circuits in it, before he turned around toleave. He turned to face Dr. O'Shea again, and was about to initiate a flurry of rude gestures when his communicator beeped. =/\=Captain Straton to Lt. Brownlee.=/\= Joran took a deep breath in, and tapped his communicator. "Brownlee here. What can I do for you, Captain?" =/\=Report to my Ready Room onfiltered=/\= "Acknowledged." He tapped his communicator, scoffed at Dr. O'Shea, and walked out, headed for the turbolift. (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Medical Research Facilities, Mission CMO Dr Rick O'Shea - 16:24) "Well, Dr. I'm-too-much-of-a-pompous-A**-to-listen-to-an-alternative-viewpoint, all possibilities should be explored, no matter how unlikely. I was just trying to help." Brownlee slammed the PADD on the desk, then turned around as if to leave, then swung around to face Rick again. Rick raised an eyebrow, an amused grin on his face. "Actually, I DO listen. Even to the foolish ideas. And trust me, we are leaving no stone unturned. And no turn unstoned, where it doesn't fit the data we have. That's all we can work on, Lt, the data. And since there are three well-qualified doctors and an extremely competent scientist here, I think you don't need to worry about a lack of ideas and theories. We are covering all the bases and just as soon as we know something definite, the Captain will know of it. But in case you didn't realise, we HAVE been studying all the available data and making some progress if only in eliminating possibilities. And if I AM a pompous ass (although actually I prefer to think of myself as a realist and a misanthrope), it's because I DO know what I'm doing and not to put too fine a point on it, I'm b****y good at it. That's why I'm here, not to be nice, not to soothe ruffled feathers, but to do a job that needs doing. This is my work, not a hobby." Brownlee looked as though he were about to explode, or at least give in to a desire to throttle Rick, but before he could reply, the scientist's commbadge beeped. =/\=Captain Straton to Lt. Brownlee.=/\= "Brownlee here. What can I do for you, Captain?" =/\=Report to my Ready Room on the double Lieutenant.=/\= "Acknowledged." He tapped his communicator, scoffed at Rick, and walked out. "Well that was interesting. Do they teach insults at command school now? If so, he needs a refresher course," Rick remarked to no one in particular. He rubbed his hands together. "Right, now where were we? Or has that little interlude wiped all our minds clear of what we're supposed to be doing here? Which in case you've forgotten is saving lives." (posted by Liz) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 16:25) "Captain Straton to Lt. Brownlee," Eva said, as she leaned back in her chair, looking at the stars as they streaked by. (Reply Brownlee) "Report to my Read Room on the double Lieutenant," Eva replied, her voice flat but hard. (Reply Brownlee) Eva closed the connection, still gazing at the stars streaking by. She idly tapped the PADD she held in one hand against her knee while she waited for Brownlee to arrive. A few moments latter the door chime sounded. Eva turned back around and moved back behind her desk, placing the PADD down. "Come," She said. (Reply Brownlee) "Have a seat,"Eva said, motioning toward one of the chairs in front of her desk. (Reply Brownlee) "I'm sure you've noticed that I have assigned Ensign K'Palla to be the primary liaison between the Science and Medical departments," Eva said, after Brownlee had sat down and got comfortable. (Reply Brownlee) "I did it as genetics is her area of expertise and I feel she is the best qualified for that particular assignment," Eva explained. "That doesn't mean you are getting a free ride. I have an assignment for you as well. This will be your primary responsibility and supercedes all other assignments. Understood?" (Reply Brownlee) Eva pushed the PADD on her desk toward Brownlee before continuing. "This PADD holds what little data we have so far on what appears to be a belt of polarized ion particles a little over 2.2 light years from the Beta Aquari system. This belt is reflecting or otherwise interfering with our attempts to scan what is inside or on the other side of the belt. This poses a serious tactical threat to the Paladin and the Battle Group. Commander Sarouk has informed me that Lt. Matrix is overseeing upgrades to several of the Paladin's systems. I want you to work with Lt. Matrix on upgrading the Paladin's sensors to allow us to scan inside and past this belt. You will also need to upgrade the fighters to better enable the sensors on the fighters to penetrate this barrier in case there are hostile forces lurking within or just past this belt. Contact Lt. Rath, the FSXO, and have her assign someone to work with you on upgrading the fighters sensors. I need these improvement as soon as possible. Preferably before we arrive at Beta Aquari III, but I realize that might be asking the impossible. Do your best and keep me informed of your progress. Do you have any questions?" (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - ACSO Ensign K'Palla - 1625) "I appreciate your input. It is helpful and quite welcome!" The Klingon science officer said with a smile. Nissa nodded bashfully, holding her hand out in the traditional Terran greeting. “Thank you for saying so; I’m still a bit nervous here on the ship.” she explained. “I was just assigned here from the Academy – I’m Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari.” "I am K'Palla, daughter of Da'Gor! It is an honor to meet you!" Klingon woman's smile grew a bit wider. “It is an honor to make your acquaintance, K’Palla, Daughter of Da’Gor.” Nissa said with a smile, looking over at Dr. O’Shea and the Lieutenant, who she took to be a science officer. “I hope you don’t feel too uncomfortable, being the science officer down here with us medical folk.” NIssa sympathized. "I believe the Terran term is being between a rock and a hard place." K'Palla replied. "Captain Straton assigned me here directly to report to Doctor O'Shea as the Science Dept liaison, but I am obligated to my CO, Lt Brownlee! I am glad that they chose to compare notes directly instead of going through me!" "It always makes me feel a bit uncomfortable to act as a liaison, though I'm sure that both Dr. O'Shea and Lt. Brownlee are appreciative of the job you are doing. I, for one, am glad to have a genetics expert here with us.” said Nissa. "I am far from an expert, but I would suppose it's better than nothing." K'Palla replied. As they spoke, Dr. Keller walked over to Nissa and K’Palla, holding his hand out to the latter. "Ensign it's good having you working with us, it looks like you have a good head on your shoulders and unless I miss my guess we'll need every one we can find before this is over." Dr. Keller said. "Thank you, sir. I am honored to have been chosen to assist in the research." K’Palla responded.. "I am anxious to view an actual sample of the virus. My hope is to catch it in the act of mutating, so that a marker can be easily identified." As they chatted, something from the direction of Dr. O’Shea and Lt. Brownlee caught their attention. The exchange between Brownlee and O'Shea seemed rather pointed and laced with barbs, which only relieved the Klingon more. She hated being in the middle of a battle of wills. She much preferred a physical confrontation, where one could back up their claim with action instead of words. She turned back to Nissa and commented to her. "It would seem that the targ droppings are about to hit the spinning blades!" she smirked. (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 16:26) Joran stepped off the turbolift, and onto the bridge. He crossed over to the door into the Ready Room, and rang the doorchime. "Come," came the captain's voice from inside. Joran walked in, and stood at attention, saying, "You wanted to see me, sir?" "Have a seat," she said, motioning toward one of the chairs in front of her desk. Joran sat, and crossed his legs, and waited for the captain to speak. "I'm sure you've noticed that I have assigned Ensign K'Palla to be the primary liaison between the Science and Medical departments," she said. "Yes, I just came from the research facilities, presenting a theory that I had." (reply Straton IYW) "I did it as genetics is her area of expertise and I feel she is the best qualified for that particular assignment. That doesn't mean you are getting a free ride. I have an assignment for you as well. This will be your primary responsibility and supercedes all other assignments. Understood?" "Clear as crystal, sir." Eva pushed the PADD on her desk toward Brownlee before continuing. "This PADD holds what little data we have so far on what appears to be a belt of polarized ion particles a little over 2.2 light years from the Beta Aquari system. This belt is reflecting or otherwise interfering with our attempts to scan what is inside or on the other side of the belt. This poses a serious tactical threat to the Paladin and the Battle Group. Commander Sarouk has informed me that Lt. Matrix is overseeing upgrades to several of the Paladin's systems. I want you to work with Lt. Matrix on upgrading the Paladin's sensors to allow us to scan inside and past this belt. You will also need to upgrade the fighters to better enable the sensors on the fighters to penetrate this barrier in case there are hostile forces lurking within or just past this belt. Contact Lt. Rath, the FSXO, and have her assign someone to work with you on upgrading the fighters sensors. I need these improvement as soon as possible. Preferably before we arrive at Beta Aquari III, but I realize that might be asking the impossible. Do your best and keep me informed of your progress. Do you have any questions?" Joran took up the PADD, and looked over it quickly. "None, sir." (reply Straton, room for more) "Thank you, sir." Joran stood up, and walked out of the room. He tapped his communicator. "Lt. Brownlee to Lts. Matrix and Rath. Report to my office ASAP." (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari - 1630) "It would seem that the targ droppings are about to hit the spinning blades!" K'Palla said, causing Nissa to chuckle. Being familiar with the corresponding Terran expression, Nissa smiled and, looking over at O'Shea and Brownlee, nodded slightly. "Well, I suggest that we move over here," Nissa suggested as she pointed to the wipe-boards, "to avoid the inevitable spray that blows off those spinning blades." (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Medical Research Facilities - ACSO Ensign K'Palla - 1632) "It would seem that the targ droppings are about to hit the spinning blades!" K'Palla said, causing Nissa to chuckle. "Well, I suggest that we move over here," Nissa suggested as she pointed to the wipe-boards, "to avoid the inevitable spray that blows off those spinning blades." Shortly after moving, K'Palla witnessed the exchange between Brownlee and O'Shea, followed by Brownlee storming out. The Klingon looked to her comrade, and grinned. "You were right. I'm glad we moved." she said simply. (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 17:00) "Computer," Joran said, "display sensor readouts of the anomaly lying between us and Beta Aquari III. Run comparison to other spatial anomalies encountered by any and all starships within the last 300 years." The computer chirped, and then stated, [No similarities to any known anomaly.] "Damn." At that point, Joran's doorchime went off. "Come in." (reply Matrix, Rath) "Ah, glad you both could make it. I need to speak with you." He stood up, and swerved his viewscreen around. "This is an anomaly lying 2.2 light-years from Beta Aquari III, and right in our course. This anomaly is such that it is reflecting all attempts to scan past it. We need to find some way to penetrate this anomaly and get through to Beta Aquari III. Any suggestions?" (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - ACEO LT JG Steven Matrix - 17:00) "Damn." At that point, Joran's doorchime went off. "Come in." Matrix had been reviewing his PADD when the office door to the CSO's office opened. "Ah, glad you both could make it. I need to speak with you." He stood up, and swerved his viewscreen around. "This is an anomaly lying 2.2 light-years from Beta Aquari III. This anomaly is such that it is reflecting all attempts to scan past it. We need to find some way to penetrate this anomaly and get through to Beta Aquari III. Any suggestions?" Matrix grinned slightly, "Well I'm assuming you've tried a trionic wave scan?" (Reply Brownlee) "Hum....well we could amplify the main deflector array and run the extra power through the secondary warp array. That would certainly boost the power, but I'm not sure it would do much for cutting through the reflection. It might just amplify the echo." Matrix leaned up again the desk, holding his chin and pondered other solutions. (Reply Brownlee, Rath) "What about a class one probe?" said Matrix and he checked inventory. (posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 17:02) "Ah, glad you both could make it. I need to speak with you." He stood up, and swerved his viewscreen around. "This is an anomaly lying 2.2 light-years from Beta Aquari III. This anomaly is such that it is reflecting all attempts to scan past it. We need to find some way to penetrate this anomaly and find some way to scan past Beta Aquari III. Any suggestions?" Matrix grinned slightly, "Well I'm assuming you've tried a trionic wave scan?" "Yes. All electromagnetic and most subspace frequencies have failed to penetrate it." "Hum....well we could amplify the main deflector array and run the extra power through the secondary warp array. That would certainly boost the power, but I'm not sure it would do much for cutting through the reflection. It might just amplify the echo." Matrix leaned up again the desk, holding his chin and pondered other solutions. "True, but it's worth a try, I suppose. I'll see what the captain has to say about that when we report in about it." "What about a class one probe?" said Matrix and he checked inventory. (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CPALMS: ACEO Lieutenant (jg) Steven Matrix - 17:02) "What about a class one probe?" said Matrix and he checked inventory. Joran stroked his chin. "Hmm," he said, "that might work. However, there is no guarantee that we will recieve telemetry from it once it crosses the event horizon. Lt. Rath, do you think we could rig up some cloaking devices on 2 or 3 of your fighters, and use them as a manned probe?" Matrix cleared his throat, "Sorry...I think we can get a class probe configured to boost any telemetry and cut through the event horizon. I wouldn't want to risk a fighter before we try a probe. I don't think the Marines would take kindly to us losing one of their fighters...nor the captain." Matrix continued, "If one probe doesn't do it we could send say three or more and cluster their telemetry systems. Just in numbers alone we should be able to gather the information we need. (posted by Steve) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 7, CSO's Office - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 17:03) Joran stroked his chin. "Hmm," he said, "that might work. However, there is no guarantee that we will recieve telemetry from it once it crosses the event horizon. Lt. Rath, do you think we could rig up some cloaking devices on 2 or 3 of your fighters, and use them as a manned probe?" Matrix cleared his throat, "Sorry...I think we can get a class probe configured to boost any telemetry and cut through the event horizon. I wouldn't want to risk a fighter before we try a probe. I don't think the Marines would take kindly to us losing one of their fighters...nor the captain." Matrix continued, "If one probe doesn't do it we could send say three or more and cluster their telemetry systems. Just in numbers alone we should be able to gather the information we need. "Very well. Lt. Rath, I want your fighters ready to go in case the unmanned probe doen't work. Lt. Matrix, you and I will repot this to the captain first thing tomorrow. Meeting adjourned." (posted by SPencer) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 24, Quarters of Ensign Conaty - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto - 1914) Sam stood outside the door, he felt so numb and so worried for her, she had not said anything for about five minutes, and couldn’t here sound through the door. ~is she ok? What’s happened? I need to make sure she’s alright~ Sam’s mind was racing. Suddenly he heard her voice, "Fine, you may eentter.." It was tearful and weak. The door opened and she flung her arms around him, crying in his arms, and she didn’t let go, Sam tried to comfort her, her body in his arms, she felt warm, she was breathing heavily. Her head as buried in his shoulder, her gentle tears soaking his uniform. Hours could have passed and Sam wouldn’t have know, he felt so right stood with her in his arms. After a while she separated, and smiled as she saw the wet patch on Sam’s left shoulder "I should really stop doing that to you Sam". The both a gave a small laugh. “ I might request they make uniforms waterproof at any rate” he joked. She gave a smile and nodded, before she moved and sat on her bed. She was still distraught and didn’t look at him as she sat. He moved to sit next to her, and comfort her. He wanted to talk. “What is it, Nat? Tell me what’s wrong.” He whispered, putting his arm gently around her trembling body. He wanted to show he was there for her. (posted by Nick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 24, Quarters of Ensign Conaty - Security Officer, Ensign Natalie Conaty - 1920) “What is it, Nat? Tell me what’s wrong.” Sam whispered, as he lowered himself onto the bed and sprung his arms around her. She wasn't too sure what to do next, she just lay her head back, brushing the tears away from her eyes and then closing them. She began breathing normally again, but she didn't open her eyes in fear of what she might see. She lay there for maybe 10.. no 20, maybe thirty minutes, she didn't know exactly but it seemed like a life time to just lie there with here eyes closed. She could feel Sam still there, she let out a yawn. But still wasn't sure what to say, she could feel the drowsiness close in on her. She shook her head and wondered what was running through Sams mind, she wanted to ask him but couldn't. Maybe if she could gain more confidence around him, maybe get to know him better. Things would just fall into place, without her having to be afraid. She tried to open her eyes but she was too tired, suddenly she fell to sleep... (posted by Jono) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 24, Quarters of Ensign Conaty - ATAC/ASC Ensign Sam Moto - 1922) She didn’t say anything but brushed her eyes and lay back. Sam felt it was right to lay back as well, and for a while they both lay there, on her bed, her body in his arms. He felt her begin to breath more slowly and deeply, and she lay, her eyes closed, he knew she wasn’t asleep, she was thinking. Sam wanted her to tell her what it was that troubled her, what she was feeling, what was going around in her head, what he meant to her, but he knew that she would tell him when she felt ready, so he was content in comforting her, watching her lay next to him, and occasionally run his fingers through her soft hair. He felt so much for her, as they lay. He couldn’t describe it, or categorise it, but it was overwhelming, and all he knew is that is was right, and it was good. But he couldn’t tell her, he didn’t know how she would take it, or if she wanted to hear it. Hours seemed to pass, but it may have only been minutes, Sam couldn’t tell, but Nat had let out a yawn, and he noticed she gradually fell asleep in his arms. Sam began to feel tired also, it had been a long, and emotional day. He could have slept right next to her, but he thought it best not to, so he gently let her go, careful not to wake her, laying her head softly on the pillow, and pulling the sheets over her limp body. Walking over to the replicator, he whispered, “Notepaper and pen.” the requested items materialised in front of him. Taking them, he sat at the table, a little way from where Nat lay sleeping, and he began to write. He sat for maybe 20 or so minutes before he finally finished. He carefully folded the paper, wrote her name on the front, and placed it neatly on the table. He then stood up, and headed for the door. As it opened he turned one last time to watch Nat sleeping. He gave a small smile as he felt a buzz inside as he looked upon her, then he left the room, and headed back to his quarters. (posted by Nick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - ACMO Whetari's Quarters - Ensign JG ACMO Nissa Whetari - 2045) After hours of research and tossing ideas back and forth, Nissa got the chance to head back to her quarters and settle in a bit. She'd dropped off her duffel before heading to report in to Dr. O'Shea, but now she picked it up and unpacked her few belongings. She had a holograph of her house-guardians on Aldea that she set down on a table near a chair. Taking a PADD out of her duffel next, she instructed the computer to upload the contents to her replicator memory. ~Guess I should see if it works,~ she thought. "Roasted vegetable brown rice, extra spicy, some garlic toast with goat cheese, and hot dark chocolate." Nissa asked. The three items soon appeared and Nissa brought them to the table to eat. ~All in all, not bad for my first day...I think.~ (posted by Sarah) ======================================================================================================================== Hope you enjoyed!