Season 2 Ep 1 Page 01

LIST OF S2 Ep1 SIMMERS

Active Simmers

Cmdr J Somers CO

Lt. Cmdr M Sterling XO

Lt. A. Cahill CMO/MD

Lt. Sheela CIO

PNPCS

Maj. S. Donovan Bravo Unit CO

MCapt. J Lemoris Bravo Unit XO

CPO L Armitage Yeoman

Departed Simmers

These Simmers left for Personal Reasons, but still get a mention.

Lt. Serron CEO (Retd.)

MWO J Tanaka 100th Sqn XO

- Bridge -

Maia stood bridge duty while the captain was visiting the admiral. The Tomcat was undergoing final repairs and resupply here at Starbase 39 Sierra. The mission in the Hydaransz system had nearly cost them the lives of everyone on board including her. The Tomcat had been in an orbital repair tender for nearly two weeks now. Most of the power systems had to be prefabricated and upgraded. Maia was hoping that they would get a Quantum Slipstream Drive installed but the design of the Akira class was too old. The tomcat was built for battle.

"Commander a moment of your time please". Lt Lemoris asked.

"Certainly Lieutenant what is the problem"? Maia asked.

"Helm controls are sluggish in simulation I think there is a bad isolinear chip in the transfer conduit of this console, I would like permission to open it up and see if I can find the source of the problem". Jelan said.

"Certainly would you like me to call an engineering tech up here". Maia asked.

"No Commander I don't think that will be necessary". Jelan said

"Very well Lieutenant, carry on". Maia instructed.

"Yes Sir" the lieutenant replied.

Maia was almost at the end of her shift. One of the things she liked about dry dock was that no one was shooting at them. It also gave her time to catch up on her painting. She was still a bit sore from her last mission. Nothing that a little analgesic wont fix.

"Commander the Captains shuttle is approaching". The Comms officer reported.

"Good, open the hangar doors and guide her in". Maia ordered.

Unfortunately the transporters were down for a maintenance cycle but it was pre- coordinated.

Maia wondered if the Captain had new orders or not...

Transport Shuttle - Starbase 39 sierra

Jasmine was sitting down as the Pilot dealt with the landing clearances, she was going over their new orders.

"Okay Ma'am we are down" The Pilot said.

Standing up and gathering up her Padds "thank you Ensign, safe trip back" she said with a smile and stepped out of the shuttle onto the Tomcat's landing deck as she tapped her Commbadge.

=/\= Somers to Sterling, senior staff briefing conference room one hour =/\= she said.

=/\=Acknowledged Captain, one hour, bridge out=/\=

"Shuttle bay pressurized, Commander all are aboard and safe". Ensign Paulson at security reported.

"Acknowledged!! Mister Lemoris you have the bridge, its time for me to get something to eat. I'll be in the officers mess if anyone should need me".

Maia got up and headed to the officers mess..

As Maia got in the turbo lift her hands started shaking. Her experience with the Komer had left her body with just a bit of electrolytic residue. The doctor said it would pass and at least her hands didn't shake when she was on duty but when not occupied or in a moment of quiet contemplation they did shake and it was a bit of an annoyance.

If she concentrated she could stop the shaking. it was as if her fingers were charged with electricity but she knew it was like muscle memory. The Komer had used her body to its fullest potential. When she was freed of there influence she was sore for two weeks. and bedridden for the first week.

A shame that she didn't have the opportunity to study the monitor first hand but Lt Lemoris had debriefed her and told her of its purpose and fabrication abilities.

Maia found its presence and history fascinating, but far to dangerous for the Federation at our current tech level. The Hydaransz System has subsequently been quarantined; At least the mystery of the missing ships had been solved.

Maia made her way to the officer's mess and saw a quillan there serving tables.

- Officers Mess -

"Ah Commander Sterling, what can I get for you today".

"Do you still have some of that Beef Stroganoff, Mac"?

"Yes Ma'am, would you like it with the Capellan noodles, or the Altarian potatoes"?.

"The Capellan noodles I think, can I have iced tea with that please". Maia asked.

"Certainly Commander" Mac replied.

It was only moments before she was served. The meal was delicious, it was one of her favourites. Maia was glad they had hired a chef on the tomcat, the replicators were fine, but they couldn't do justice compared to a real chef. To think he was rescued from the Hydaransz system. What a bonus for the Tomcat.

Her hands had stopped shaking after she ate. Seems that she had her appetite back as well as her strength and then she went to the Conference room one. Apparently she was the first one there. Most of the senior officers were killed in the last mission. The Tomcat was still awaiting replacements.

Maia wondered what Captain Somers and the admiralty had in store for them this time.

Maia then received a communiqué from the Captain to meet her in teh briefing room in one hour.

=/\=Aye Captain I'll be there=/\=

Main Conference Room

At the designated time…

Jasmine had arrived ahead of her crew and had had her Yeoman prepare the meeting room.

"Thank you Lucy" She said.

Looking back with a smile "Not a problem Captain" She said and was away.

Maia was surprised that she wasn't the first one there as she had come in early.

Outside the view port she saw technicians applying a new coat of paint on a section of the hull that had been replaced.

"Hello Captain, I trust all went well with your meeting"?

Maia nodded to Lucy as well.

"We've tested the new torpedo launchers and saw a 42 percent improvement in both accuracy and firepower. The warp drive has been tested up to up to 30 percent. Structural Integrity Field for the primary hull wont be ready for two days and the navigational deflector upgrades are proceeding on schedule, Ma'am".

Looking up as her XO entered and nodded to Lucy.

"Hello Maia, please grab a drink if you want, the meeting went as expected, but I will do a full brief when the other senior Staff arrive."

"Good, after the meeting stir up the Starbase techs, I want be departing in a day from now, if they give you trouble let me know and I will speak to the Admiral as it is his orders that we go as soon as" She said.

"Coffee heavy cream and sugar". Maia ordered form the replicator, then walked over to a chair and sat down.

"We are leaving tomorrow then"?

oO Maia thought that was nuts as the SIF wouldn't be ready for 2 days. they already had crews working around the clock, not only that but they didn't have all there crew replacements yet. Maia wondered why it was so important that they left so early before they were ready again. She was sure the captain would explain everything in her own time.Oo Maia thought.

"I will make it so, Captain" Maia never argued with Captain Somers no matter how impossible a task she had given her. First a captain was never wrong. Second a captain got what a captain wanted. Third it would be downright unprofessional to voice opposition without first making sure it couldn't be done.

oO Such was life aboard a Starship Oo Maia thought.

Smiling "good Maia" Then deciding something "You know Maia all this Captain's right stuff aside, I need an XO who will put his or her point across if that person thinks the Captain is wrong or something cannot be done. *pause* contrary to popular belief the Captain is not always right" Jasmine said sitting back as Maia took her seat. "Blind obedience causes deaths, if you think I am ever in the wrong Maia I hope you will speak up!" Jasmine finished.

"Indeed.... " She said and stopped as the rest of the senior staff entered.

"We shall see about that tomorrow, either the ship will work or it wont. I would recommend another day however as the structural damage to the primary hull was pretty severe. the structural integrity field coils are still being installed and routed, at least the hull is complete".

Maia console beeped and she activated it. A new message..

"Got a new priority flash message Captain. Apparently Task Force 44 has been temporarily suspended. We have been assigned to Task Force 11 under the command of Rear Admiral Jonathan Hansen. Do you know him"?

Looking up at her XO as the other staff took their seats "No do not know him personally Maia, remember we have not been in Pegasus Fleet that long and we lost a lot of crew in the Hydaransz System. But let the Starbase techs know I will give them two days no more, have them concentrate on the essential systems, our engineers will fix the rest en-route" Somers said.

"Most of the systems are fine Captain. It's the last bit of the structural repairs both on the inner and outer hull. I will get the word out to the repair crews".

"If I may ask Captain what does Starfleet have in store for us next"?

Looking up with a nod, Jasmine stood up and looked around the room, she saw her two Senior Marine Officers, Major Donovan and Marine Captain Lemoris, her Squadron Commander of Raider group First Lieutenant Tabor, plus some others who were temporary in Command of the various departments.

"Okay when the needed repairs are complete, Fleet wants the USS Tomcat to head out to the Galen system. With the loss of Romulus and Remus a large population of Romulan and Reman refugees have settled there, along with some Cardassian's some Talarian's and the majority are human colonists. Now this system and Galen IV in particular is defended by only a token force, mainly Romulan Republic forces, we have some old style ships stationed there, these consist mostly of Excelsior and Miranda Classes, I do believe there is even a group of retrofitted Constitution Class Cruisers too. The Galen System is on the Federation side of the Talarian/Federation border and they are being attacked by Orion Slavers. *pause* Now the ships guarding there have recently been joined by some Cardassian ships and a Squadron of Klingon Bird of Preys as the Klingon's also have an enclave on Galen IV, but despite all this there are no advanced ships there. This is where we come in, as the fastest and most advanced ship available we are to head out there and render aid, we have the unusual orders where the Orion Slaver's are concerned" She paused.

"Captain, In Orion society, slavery was an important and ancient institution, dating back to their earliest history as a slave-race dominated by alien masters. It even became a vital tool for their survival after their liberation, and so it continued into modern times. Slavery ran deep and widespread in their culture, and formed the bedrock of Orion society, civilization and philosophy. It was considered to be a rational and honourable way of life, not a state of oppression, with little stigma to be either a slave or an owner. Bar the lowliest, every business, government, institution and household employed slave labour, and Orion slaves went willingly into service."

"Despite the name, Orion slaves were closer in practice to employees working under an all-encompassing contract, and began in a kind of school system. The Orion word for 'slave' was dubi, a contraction of the word for 'contractor', dubyal. Slaves worked for etadubran, translated as either 'contract-holders' or 'the obligated'. As such, Orion slavery was seen as a kind of contracted labour, not the ownership of a sentient being. For the slave, this meant being cared for and given a job."

A Brief pause.

"Both men and women could be enslaved in equal measure. Only Green Orion’s were slaves, and most would experience slavery at least once in their lives. By rigid custom, the high-born Ruddy Orions were never enslaved, whether by choice or by force. They were usually the slave-owners and trainers. In the traditional system, only Orion’s could be slaves, not non-Orion’s, and they did not export slaves to non-slaving races, despite frequent rumours, scandals and reports to the contrary. Other, specific forms of Orion slavery were the famous Orion slave girls and the scientifically skilled Grey Orion's. I can only assume that our presence there is interfering with the Orion Slave trade. Do you think that they may see this is an act of war. Has diplomacy been attempted Captain Maia added."

"The order concerning the Orion’s is give no quarter, shoot on sight any Orion Slaver ships attacking Galen IV. Now the slight problem there is we have to prove that they are slaver ships, as a lot of Orion’s do honest trading with Galen IV as do the Ferengi as the planet is rich in Dilithium and other essential metal ores. Galen IV is the fertile version of Nimbus III. Next I will give out the assignments and give a basic overview on Galen IV, well all what Starfleet Intel know at present."

After a slight pause she began.

"Okay Galen IV was originally a Federation Colony world, but became abandoned after the first colony was wiped out by Talarian forces in 2357. Since then relations between the Federation and Talarian's improved and with the discovery of rich ore veins the Talarian Government allowed Federation mining colonies and they have since prospered as they get a percentage of the revenue Galen IV has and with a multi species settling there bringing business in they have reaped the rewards of their experimental venture. *pause* Please remember that the Talarian's are or were extremely Xenophobic, but with all that has happened in recent years the Galen system is now co-owned by a Talarian/Federation Treaty. Galen IV being the fourth planet in a K class Star system is heavily forested and humid, it has a gravity of slightly less than earth normal, but a humidity factor higher. The planet was once part of the UFP but with the current treaty it entered into Co-ownership of UFP/Talarian so now with this treaty, we are being assigned to the area to put a stop to the Slave trade, I will free the floor up for questions after this briefing is over."

Another Pause...

"Okay the Assignments are as follows: Engineering the base techs will do the major repairs to our hull, but you will have to do all other repairs en-route to Galen system. Security you will need to tighten all ship security procedures and put in fail-safes to protect the ship against any intruders." Both acting CEO and CoS nodded. "Captain Lemoris you will take command of the remaining hundred Marines, you would make the hundred and first Marine. Major Donovan you and Bravo Unit will be given special assignment to be briefed when we get there, but for the present I want you to use your usual diligence and help Security secure my ship from any potential intruders we may get" She said and looked back at the Acting CEO "I want an interference field active by the time we get to Galen system that stops the Orion Slavers from transporting our people off this ship, but make sure you allow for our transporters" She added. All so far nodded, looking at the Intel Officer "from the moment we get into range I want you to access all Starfleet intelligence and other sources of information and get us the current situation on Galen IV" She said and the Acting CIO nodded.

"Now to Raider Squadron, Lieutenant Tabor you are Acting CAG and will work closely with Captain Lemoris and any ground assets we gain to provide cover or support to ground troops as and when needed"

"Yes Captain" Tabor responded.

"Now the situation on Galen IV is currently uncertain but expect a hotbed of subterfuge and mis-direction, also expect there to be Rogue elements of Tal'Shiar and Section 31 to be there. *Looking at the Acting CIO* If Intel has any undercover operatives keeping tabs on these agents, have them send you all they know, then hand that data over to me." The CIO nodded "Major Donovan and Commander Sterling and Chief Armitage I want you three to remain behind after the briefing, Captain Lemoris you will be in charge of the bridge until Commander Sterling or myself arrive there, now I will open the floor for questions."

"Both men and women could be enslaved in equal measure. Only Green Orions were slaves, and most would experience slavery at least once in their lives. By rigid custom, the high-born Ruddy Orions were never enslaved, whether by choice or by force. They were usually the slave-owners and trainers. In the traditional system, only Orions could be slaves, not non-Orions, and they did not export slaves to non-slaving races, despite frequent rumours, scandals and reports to the contrary. Other, specific forms of Orion slavery were the famous Orion slave girls and the scientifically skilled Grey Orion's. I can only assume that our presence there is interfering with the Orion Slave trade. Do you think that they may see this is an act of war. Has diplomacy been attempted Captain Maia added."

"Yes all diplomatic channels have been exhausted, but with things the way they are Starfleet Command has taken up a Zero tolerance position, very unusual for them, I suspect there is Political wrangling going on behind the scenes on the Federation Council. Also Commander this new order is due to the fact that the Orion Slavers and Syndicate are abducting Federation, Klingon, Cardassian and Romulan people from their homes. If the Slavers had kept to non-member or Alliance worlds then nothing would be done, but when Federation Citizens are involved it is a different matter. Besides I think the Federation is hoping to induct the Talarian's into the Federation, so this show of forceful action is to prove to the Talarian's that the Federation are not just bunch of fat well fed Politicians" Somers explained.

"I'm still waiting for someone to prove it to me, Captain" Maia said with a smirk.

"Did you not just hear what I said Captain? If the Orions had kept this capturing of new slaves within their own area and not begun to abduct Federation Citizens we would not have been given this mission and trust me I am no happier with this than anyone else in this room, but we are Starfleet Officers and we have been given new marching orders. It can't be fighting Pirates all the time, we saw where that got us, over a year and half in the Hydaransz System, look how many people we lost"

"Yes Captain I heard you, loud and clear! It's just with the other major powers sending in their blackest ops people, the Tal'Shiar, the Obsidian order, Section 31, who themselves always have plots within plots within plots, I realize there is no straight line to our objectives. Politicians are always using us as pawns, especially in these perilous times. I read the holonets too. Right now the Federation is in an obvious expansion phase. The Talarian’s and I've known a few are a very proud people. We would not be there if they didn't invite us. would I be mistaken if I suggested that the Talarian’s are being overwhelmed by the Orion’s at this time"? Captain Lemoris asked.

"They are taking people from their homes Captain, both adults and children and seizing freighters and taking their crews prisoner. So the Federation Council are under pressure from the Romulan Republic, the Detapa Council and the Klingon High Council. Not to mention the Talarian's, when Politician's feel threatened Maia, then us mere Officers have to suffer such duties, but I hate slavery in all ways. If the Orion’s had left our people and Allies alone I would just hold them in contempt and let them be as it would screw with the Prime Directive, but with their actions they have negated the Prime Directive. *pause* Now the diplomats are still talking to the Head families of the Orion's, but it is a long road and tough going"

"What is down on this planet that makes it a magnet for rogue elements of the Tal'Shiar and Section 31"? Maia asked curiously. Have they discovered some new preserver artifact or some such?" Maia added.

Looking at her XO "All in Good time Commander, so if there are anymore questions ask them now, otherwise this briefing is complete and I will want Major Donovan, Commander Sterling and Yeoman Armitage to remain behind" She said "anymore questions?"

Commander Sterling expected that answer especially with all the spooks involved.

She reserved any questions for when they got on station.

No one seemed to have any questions at the moment. At any rate she had a lot of work to do if they were going to get the Tomcat launched in two days.

"Alright people you heard the Captain lets get to action stations, I want hourly progress reports from each shift". Maia ordered.

Looking up "right you three take a seat, Lucy I want you to keep notes and then send a secured line back to Command addressed to CinC Starfleet Special Operations" Jasmine said.

"Yes Sir" Lucy Responded.

Jasmine sat back and steepled her fingers as she prepared what she wanted to say.

*inhaling* "Okay Major Donovan you will coordinate and keep in contact with Commander Sterling first or myself if she is unavailable." S'arila nodded "Now Major when we get to Galen system you will take Bravo Unit down to this location" Jasmine said calling up a hologram of a well armed compound as they looked at it Somers continued. "Now your units task is to get in, download all information, then rig the base to blow after wiping the base Computer core" Somers finished.

"What of the troops guarding that base?" Donovan asked.

"Expendable Major, the base is run by rogue elements of the Tal'Shiar and this operation has the blessing of the new Romulan government who are still reorganising after the Hobus incident and cannot spare the troops to take care of it themselves. From what Intel suggests Major this base is home to genetic engineering and improving the use of Thaleron weapons and other various Bio-weapons" Somers said and was stopped as her Yeoman’s Padd began to bleep. "What is it Lucy?"

Looking up as if uncertain to share this new Intel with the others, but a nod from Jasmine settled it and she began.

"We have just received words Sirs that this base is also experimenting with Captured Borg technology, where they got this from is a mystery to Starfleet Intelligence who is working with the new Cardassian Intelligence Service and the new Romulan Intelligence Directorate and the Klingon's own intelligence Unit. But it is confirmed that the Rogue Tal'Shiar elements are experimenting with Borg technology" Lucy said and sat back down.

Looking at the alarmed faces, one which mirrored her own "Well it seems things have just gone up a notch, you have anything to say Commander before I continue this high Security Intel briefing?" She asked Maia.

"Well it seems things have just gone up a notch, you have anyhting to say Commander before I continue this high Security Intel briefing?"

"Well I now understand why they want us there. There have been other reports that the Romulan's have upgraded certain ships such as ore miners with Borg tech. If they have somehow adapted Borg weaponry, computer or power systems then I say they are the real threat, and the Orion pirates are simply an excuse to go in and do recon to see how far the technology has developed". Maia replied.

Looking at her XO with a raised eyebrow "indeed" She said now that they were alone she said as Donovan came closer. "There is not much else to impart, all data on the facility will be made available to you S'arila and I mean everything we have on the building and to go over it and put it in the most basic terms Its get in take no prisoners download all information then set Spatial charges after wiping the data core of the Romulan computer, then you are to return directly back to the Tomcat" She finished.

"Yes Captain" Donovan responded then looked up startled as she could hear Jasmine's thoughts.

<< I know I will not be able to hear your response Major, just give me a nod at the end if you understand. There is also a Padd in the Romulan base Commanders office, you and only you alone are to retrieve it. It contains some very dangerous information on new weapon technologies, not even SFI know of this, I will not say who my contacts are, but they impressed on me that such information is not to fall into anyone’s hands. So your task is when your team is rigging the base to explode you alone get to the Romulan Commanders office and get that data Padd and tell no one else you have it. Then you are to only pass it to me, I want to give Maia plausible deniability, if I am unable to meet with you give it to Lucy she knows only that the Padds is important and that I need it, remember Major need to know >> Jasmine thought to the Major.

Donovan looked at Jasmine with an amused eyebrow, both women were well aware that the XO would be curious, but would not push the subject, Sterling was a damn fine XO and would understand the phrase 'Need to know'. Now the Trilon/Human hybrid who was the strongest telepath in the Federation nodded once.

"Right are there any more questions?" Jasmine asked looking at both women.

"I got none Captain" Donovan responded.

Maia heard just enough to know she didn't want to here anymore. Obviously they were planning on stealing or copying a computer core. Romulan's wouldn't take to kindly to espionage they were paranoid enough as it was. She got up to get another cup of coffee and introduced herself to the new Chief Medical Officer.

"Hello I am the XO Commander Maia Sterling, you must be doctor Cahill. Its a pleasure to meet you"..

Alexanderia nodded “Hello Commander, Captain” Cahill responded as she took a seat at the briefing nodding to others there as she did.

"Right are there any more question"?

"I have none either but request permission to be dismissed there is a lot to do before we launch".

"I have nothing either Captain" Donovan responded.

"Very well dismissed" Jasmine said and heard Lucy's Padd bleep

"Excuse me Captain, I got to meet someone" She said and quickly left.

Just as Sterling was leaving....

"Maia, stay a moment please!"

Maia watched as everyone else filed out of the room. She of course stayed. Now that the other officers were gone they could have a heart to heart.

"You have issues Commander" She said "I may wear a red shirt now, but I am still a Marine and can see you are uneasy with aspects of our upcoming mission, now is the time to speak" Jasmine said, now both were alone.

"Not uneasy per se' Captain. My main focus is getting there in one piece and making sure once we get there were ready for whatever comes up. Once again we go into the hornets nest to do one thing yet accomplish another. I'm a scientist captain, as well as a Star Fleet officer. The Tomcat is a warship Captain, my concern is that instead of keeping the peace we are being sent in to pick a fight. First against the Orion's and then against the Romulan's. I just don't want to be on the wrong side of history" Maia said.

Looking at her with some concern "I understand Maia, I feel the same too, but we have the unusual blessings of the Romulan Republic Government and the Romulan Empire who still operate the Tal'Shiar do not like what this splinter group is doing. The Klingon’s and Cardassian’s are all for it as well as the Federation Council and Talarian Alliance. *pause* I assume that with the Romulan Empire the thought of Tal'Shiar operatives working with Section 31 is an affront to them, with the Romulan's Maia its wheels within wheels and this particular branch of the Tal'Shiar have gone too far it seems and thus become the scape-goats. *pause* This irony is not lost on me, on one side we have the Romulan Republic who wish a less cloak and dagger life and are willing to co-exist with Remans. On the other side we have the Romulan Empire who is stuck in the old ways and do not want to lose it. I look at the Romulan Republic being the entity Ambassador Spock wanted and the Empire being of the old days. *beat* I also have a feeling there is something else afoot in the Romulan Empire that no other Empire knows about" Jasmine said looking at her bleeping datapadd a moment.

"But regardless with so many empires and Alliances backing us the only upset parties will be the Orion’s and the Tal'Shiar/S31 Coalition. The Orion Syndicate is actually keeping its distance on this one, but are supplying Intel to us via third parties on the movements of the Orion Slavers in Federation Alliance space" She finished as she slipped the Padd back into her pocket.

"Yeah, that's what I'm afraid of, the spooks always play ten simultaneous games at once. They are definitely up to something. While I don't agree with their methods, Section 31 usually does protect Federation interests, if they have aligned themselves with the Tal'Shiar, it could be indicative of a rift within that secret organization. Elements go rogue all the time. We probably have a section 31 operative on board and don't know it".

Looking at her XO "No we have not Maia, of that I am certain, lets just say I have contacts in low places that have better Intel abilities than Section 31 and they keep track of all Section 31 agents both main and renegades, lets just say that if they detected one of the Agents being assigned to this ship those agents would end up dead. No Commander we have no S31 agents on this ship" She paused "I cannot speak for the maintenance crews, have Security and intelligence departments work with all other departments and have them scan for any devices that are not supposed to be attached to this ship and its systems. While I trust my crew those Starbase Techs have had free reign of my ship and anyone could have planted any kind of device" Somers finished.

"Scanning for devices that are not supposed to be attached the ship will be impossible at this time; external sensors are offline due to the superstructure repairs going on. As it is I will have to expedite those repairs if we are to leave space dock on time. The marines could do space walking drills but I don't believe they would have the expertise to know what to look for".

"Have Major Donovan task two Bravo Unit Tech Marines to do an internal system search. Then have Captain Lemoris assign some Marines in sphinx work pods to look around the outside of this ship. The Marines Commander can tell the difference on what should be on the hull and what should not, Marines are not stupid" Somers said. "Better yet have Captain Lemoris lead the external search teams, then when we leave space-dock our new Chief Engineer can lead a team with Security to do a more thorough search of the places secret devices could be hidden as it will be a long journey to Galen IV" She added.

oO Maia would never imply that their Marines were stupid in fact they were the finest She had ever served with. Oo.

"Understood Captain, I will program a chip to help differentiate what is supposed to be part of the rigging and what is not supposed to be there. Passive and active sensors should be found. Don't worry Captain, I will get it done".

Looking at her XO knowing Maia was only doing her job "okay Maia we are done here, make it so with the repair teams" She said standing up "I now have to go and meet our new Chief Engineer a Vulcan named Lieutenant Serron" She added.

"Yes Sir, please have him hunt me down at his earliest convenience I would meet him myself to welcome him aboard but my plate is extremely full today". Maia replied.

With that Maia got up and left the briefing room. She hit her Commbadge.

=/\= Major Donovan, and Captain Lemoris please meet me in science lab 2. I have a little job for you =/\=

 With that the doors closed leaving Captain Somers with her thoughts..

- Science Lab 2 -

 Lemoris gave a big Sigh

 He crawled out from under the console and turned it off, he could get back to it later, there must be a module out, at least the interface wasn't interfacing correctly. Actually he could use the diversion, the Kriosian was definitely getting antsy for some action, even if it were in space dock and Commander Sterling's little jobs were usually dangerous enough to keep him occupied..

 =/\= Lemoris here acknowledged. I'm on my way =/\=

 Less than five minutes later he arrived in science lab two well ahead of Donovan. Commander sterling had been making copies of an isolinear rod that she had created a program for scanning the hull from work bees. Apparently Captain Somers had ordered that the hull be scanned for bugs and with the internal and external sensors being upgraded this had to be manually done.. At least it got him off the bridge.

 "Jelan I want you to take 1st platoon out in as many work bees as you can and scan the hull for anomalies, coordinate with tactical, if you find one please report it to me ASAP." Maia ordered.

 "Yes Ma'am" Lemoris replied..

 "Good get to it.." Maia said.

Approaching silently "You rang Commander?" Donovan asked practicing her humour, as it seemed that her species had little or no humour that was known to outsiders.

"Ah yes S’arila, I need you to take 2nd platoon, and scan the inner hull for listening devices or bombs, I have sent Captain Lemoris to scan the outer hull in work bees for the same thing. Captain Somers feels that security has been compromised since so many of our key systems are down, I want you to be meticulous. here are several tridents I have programmed with anything that might be considered anomalous. Your men will need gravity boots and environmental suits for this, any questions?”

Looking at the First Officer "The Captain is only concerned for her people commander, this includes you. So if you were not concerned with her actions I would be worried" Donovan said "but understood Commander I will get right on that" Donovan said with a smile and left the Lab.

"As am I, Major, including you and second platoon". Maia said.

Once S’arila was gone, Maia activated her Comms system and got a hold of the dockyard chief.

=/\= Commander Nelson, this is Commander Sterling of the star ship Tomcat. We have expedited orders, I request that work on the superstructure and Structural Integrity Field continue around the clock, We can spare as man personnel as you need to accomplish this if manpower is the issue..=/\=Maia requested.

=/\= Commander Sterling I have received orders bumping up the priority of the Tomcat from the Admiralty we will do what we can to get you launched on time =/\= Commander Nelson replied.

=/\= Thank you Commander Nelson, your attention in this matter is greatly appreciated, Tomcat out =/\= Maia replied.

oO One thing down 600 to go Maia thought Oo

After that Maia went to the Deflector Control Room to supervise the main sensor alignment adjustments. She wondered how the captain was fairing with the new chief engineer.

- Marine Deck -

 She heard Lemoris respond before she could.

Tapping her Commbadge =/\= Acknowledged Commander en-route, Donovan out =/\= She was so glad she had completed her given task by the Captain before the call had come in. Now she arrived at Science Lab two just as Sterling was finishing up with Lemoris.

- Space – External USS Tomcat – Work bee 9 -

Captain Lemoris was the last to leave the Tomcat's shuttle bay all 30 work bees were being used to scan for anomalies on the outer hull. The traffic was a lot more intense than he thought. Work crews were out in force and more seemed to be coming in every few seconds, some with plating some with conduits, welding torches or other heavy components for the Tomcat. Hull plating was open to space and he could see many different crews walking in and out of the hull. The tomcat looked like it was being refitted by a colony of ants.

=/\="Bravo team fan out, you have your sections, I want ever square centimetre of this ship checked. Anything not programmed into your sensors is to be flagged and reported, Lemoris out". =/\=

Jelan piloted his work bee on the underside of the primary hull, his work bee moving at 5 kph, yes a snails crawl, but Commander Sterling said to be meticulous. He was getting somewhat edgy on the bridge, and this detail suited his Bajoran sense of adventure.

His sensors beeped as he got near the port side torpedo launcher, but it was just an open hatch, and beeped again at the waving technician who was field testing torpedo guidance. He slowed the work be down after that to 2 kph.. There was so much going on it was really a puzzle to know what was right from what was wrong and the detail took several hours to complete. As usual the exec's programming was good, it seemed that most everything he scanned was meant to be there or was part of the construction. He wondered how the guys from 2nd platoon were doing going through the inner hull.

Jelan pulled his work bee back to inspect the Tomcat from a distance..

=/\= "All work bee units report in"=/\=

All the work be units reported in except work bee 17

Jelan turned his work bee in that direction and increased speed to 20 KPH which in this maze of workmen was probably dangerous..

- Captain’s Ready Room -

After Serron had left her office led out by Lucy a call came in from her 100th Squadron Leader Joseph Tabor who was flying their stealth Venture Class scout.

=/\= Raider One to base, I have located target and beamed her up, you should have told me of her temper, she is not happy, I am currently en-route back to the Tomcat eta twelve hours, Scout out =/\=

Smiling she closed of the communication and sat back as she was deep in thought, she was wondering what happened to the Marine who was coming to her, the Officer was a Major on Starbase 218 then after applying to the Niagara she was demoted three grades without a by your leave, suspecting shadowy figures involved Jasmine knew she would never find out the truth, but something happened on the USS Niagara that forced this officer to leave so soon after arriving.

What Jasmine did not understand was the woman was one of the few Marine Officers outside of the 95th Rifles that was entitled to wear the White Cord of Courage on her uniform, yet according to the woman's file she did not wear it. Wondering who the Officer was she called up the woman’s file and involuntary inhaled, activating the Communications.

=/\= Somers to commander Sterling =/\=

After tasking the marines about there detail Maia went back to the bridge to oversee operations. It wasn't long before someone needed her.

=/\= Sterling here go ahead =/\=

=/\= Maia report to my ready room asap, I need you to do something for me =/\=

=/\= I'm on my way Captain, Sterling out =/\=

=/\= Acknowledged, out =/\= Jasmine replied.

Jasmine said and closed the link, pulling out from her draw a bottle of cognac Brandy she poured herself a drink and sipped, as she sat back and placed her feet up on her desk "Oh Alex, what happened to you on your first mission with the Niagara" She said with a resigned sigh and removing her feet to the floor and finishing her brandy and putting the bottle away she updated the woman's rank and file jacket.

Maia was pretty close to the captain’s ready room being on the bridge so she went up to the door and signalled the chime, she heard and enter so went in.

"You wanted to see me Captain"?

Looking up from what she was doing "Ah yes Maia please be seated, I will not keep you long I know you got a million and one things to do" Jasmine said.

After a slight moments of hesitation....

"We have a new Marine coming aboard and most of all it is my cousin" Jasmine said.

"I was unaware that you had a cousin in Starfleet". Maia replied.

"I am as surprised as you are Maia, I did not expect this. It seems she was on Starbase 218 and a Major who commanded a Regiment, possibly larger, and then she ended up on the USS Niagara as a 2nd Lieutenant and Marine XO. From what I can tell her posting there did not work out well. What is more puzzling is how she went from Major to Second Lieutenant, she did nothing wrong, I read the transfer confirmation for her, and it is a puzzle that would never be unravelled I fear. *pause* another thing is she is a fully trained up member of the 95th Rifles and a Chosen Man, yet she does not wear the white cord, I can only assume that it was a requirement of her posting. *beat* But she is coming her with the rank of Marine Captain and will be assigned to Bravo Unit. What I want you to do is threefold"

Maia paused her eye browse going up in surprise. "Of course Captain anything I can do". She replied.

"First off regardless of who she is let Captain Lemoris know he will still be XO of Bravo Unit. Secondly let Major Donovan know that she will have a new Officer joining her little Unit. *pause* Lastly Marine Captain Alexandria Somers has a temper that rivals mine and she can be somewhat volatile in both actions and words, so I will need you to keep a surreptitious eye on her when you can, just to make sure she settles in okay; I will be roping in S'arila to keep an eye on her when you cannot, any questions?" Jasmine asked finally.

"Do you expect trouble from her"? Maia asked.

Looking at her XO as she sat back "No, but she must be carrying around some emotional baggage from her last posting however short."

"That is to be expected". Maia replied.

"Indeed, I mean something happened from what I was able to garner from my sources she went from a Major on Starbase 218 to Second Lieutenant on the USS Niagara. Hell that would give me some emotional baggage, but she is a Somers and like me she has trained on the Klingon homeworld and is more into warrior honour than I am, expect her to be spending a lot of her off duty hours with our Klingon pilots" Jasmine explained.

"A three step reduction in grade can only be for gross dereliction of duty, Captain, even insubordination wouldn't merit that". Maia said.

"From what I read of Alexandria's file Maia, there was no such thing entered into the log or her file. She was a Major on SB 218 and when she was posted to the Niagara she was Second Lieutenant, why the sudden drop not even she knows I suspect, I fear it is a mystery that we will never solve, anyway I think we are done here Maia, you need to get some sleep, I will cover you for no less than four hours, now go get some sleep Commander that’s an order, my Cousins been here for at least six hours, so you need to get at least four hours sleep" Jasmine said.

"Actually Captain my duty shift just started three hours ago, you're the one who should be sleeping Sir. As for your Cousin I will tell her exactly what I tell all new crew members. You start with a clean slate, but if you ever put this ship or this crew in danger by negligent actions, I'll space her myself. If there is nothing else, I have a rather full plate if we expect to get underway when you want us too. Sleep well Captain".

With that Maia walked out of the ready room and onto the bridge. but she wasn't there before another emergency pulled her away. She saw Jelan was there and gave him the bridge till she got back.

- Hallway outside of Science lab 2 -

=/\=Commander Sterling, I believe we are to meet soon? Deck 14, correct?

=/\=

=/\=That is correct I am on my way there now, Sterling out.=/\=

Maia ordered the turbo lift to take her to deck 14.

=/\= Bridge to Commander Sterling =/\=

That sounded like Jelan's voice.

=/\= Go ahead Bridge=/\= Maia replied

=/\= Dockyard control advises that installation of the new superstructure structural integrity field and external sensors have been completed. =/\= Jelan advised.

=/\= Excellent, run a level 1 diagnostic and calibration routines=/\=. Maia ordered.

=/\=Understood Commander, bridge out.=/\=

- Observation Deck, Deck 14 -

Maia walked into the observation deck and saw Mr Serron was already there.

"You must be Lieutenant Serron, I am Commander Sterling the Executive Officer, let me take this opportunity to welcome you aboard the Starship Tomcat. I trust you found everything in a sufficient state of chaos to warrant your interest?"

Serron instinctively stiffened in the presence of the XO. He had always paid careful attention to the chain of command, and believed that that quality would serve him well on Tomcat

"Yes, Commander. I scarcely have been able to take stock of the situation down here, and I am already somewhat concerned by our readiness, given our mission parameters. Even if we weren't concerned about sabotage, I would, under most circumstances, have requested more time. However, Tomcat does not seem to be like any vessel I have yet served on."

"Yes I am aware of the short notice to get this ship launched. The security situation is well under control, We even had bravo company perform outer and inner hull checks" Maia said.

"I have ordered level one and two diagnostics of all engineering systems. I believe that I have already endeared myself to my engineering crew: they have been instructed that the ship is to be ready for departure in 24 hours. *pause* I have instructed that all engineering components are to be subjected to both level 1 and 2 diagnostics, though I am fully prepared for the level 2 diagnostics to be performed en route."

"The ship's combat readiness is of utmost concern, if we are to leave port in a less-than-optimal condition. The fighter deck will be ready for action upon departure; I have made it clear to the deck personnel that this is not a flexible deadline. *pause* So yes, Commander, you might say that I have found enough to keep myself "interested".

Serron was not sure of the level of detail that the exec demanded; hopefully he had not provided too much information.

"Good I shall inform the captain that we are on schedule then". Maia replied.

I have instructed that all engineering components are to be subjected to both level 1 and 2 diagnostics, though I am fully prepared for the level 2 diagnostics to be performed en route.

"Excellent, we have found that a lot of the new components required some major adjustments to get them to work have you found any difficulties with the engines?"

"Whatever we cant get fixed here we will fix en-route. It will take two weeks to get to the staging area. That is why we are expediting repairs to launch early".

So yes, Commander, you might say that I have found enough to keep myself "interested".

"If you need anything let me know. Welcome aboard Lieutenant".

Serron took a moment to take mental stock of the work done thus far.

"Frankly, Commander, I have sensed a lack of discipline among the engineering crew. I am aware of the human engineers' predilection for 'self-directed problem-solving', but it does not seem to be adequate. This is especially a problem in main engineering; Level 1 diagnostics should be capable of being performed within 12 hours or less, no matter the component; the first was completed in 14."

"We have gone from the majority of our fighter force being down for maintenance, to now only having 7 fighters that are currently grounded. I have noticed some suspicious behaviour of the fighters' navigational software; I plan to investigate this by switching all fighters temporarily from fly-by-wire to direct mechanical control. This will no doubt be a hindrance to some of our inexperienced pilots, but it should last no more than a few days, and we have plenty of pilots with enough experience to cover flight operations until then."

"I believe that is all, Commander. I will take my leave of you now, with your permission."

Serron stood at attention.

"Very well Lieutenant, if there is anything you need don't hesitate to ask. Dismissed"!

Serron only nodded and left Sterling’s presence.

Maia had no doubt that Serron would whip the engineering staff into shape. A Vulcan engineering officer would be quite a change for this ship. Maia had no doubt that the ships would be working not only logically but efficiently as well. As Serron left Maia decided to get some rack time..

If this ship was launching tomorrow Maia wanted to make she was rested enough to make sure they wouldn't have to push the ship out of space dock.

- Deck 2 -

Having been dismissed by the CO, Serron strode briskly across the bridge. He entered the turbolift, bound for his quarters. He noted that he was accompanied by the Chief.

"Chief, you must have more pressing duties to attend to. I should like to make my way to my quarters unassisted. I have familiarized myself with Tomcat's layout, and should have no trouble.

"I have my Orders Sir, security is monitored on the Tomcat and it would be bad for me should I fail in my duties, I know you understand this concept" She said as the doors closed. "Deck 3" She added.

“Understood, carry on Chief” Serron said and went about his business

- Deck 3/Turbolift/Corridor -

As they arrived on Deck three the pair walked to the second set of empty quarters, Lucy handed the Lieutenant Datapadd "Here you are Sir, your quarters, this is where you are solo" Lucy said with a smile and a nod she left and re-entered the turbolift.

"Deck 3, Senior Officer's Quarters."

The turbolift slid smoothly into action, first descending vertically. As it quickly shifted to horizontal motion, Serron took a moment to reflect upon his meeting with Cdr. Somers. His last CO had been a Vulcan, and despite their common ancestry, Serron had found him difficult to serve under. Like all (part) Vulcan’s, Serron believed in the value of logic and pragmatism, but he believed - he stopped and admitted to himself that he felt - that the galaxy was entering a time of great strife. His last CO had been reluctant to take decisive action, preferring to wait for further orders or spend valuable time on unnecessary information gathering. It seemed that Somers had no such reservations about action.

Serron was jolted out of his reverie by the opening of the turbolift doors.

Serron made his way to his quarters, and was pleased to note that they were quite close to the turbolift, which would be valuable, as he could be in the bridge or engineering on short notice. He keyed in the code that had been given to him. On his last vessel, he had never changed the randomly-assigned code. But remembering the Captain's warnings of potential sabotage, he quickly reset the locking mechanism to accept DNA authentication only. Being the Chief Engineer, he and his quarters were likely targets, as he was responsible for both the ship's fighters and small craft, and its primary power and propulsion systems. He tossed his duffel onto his rack, took a moment to appreciate that he no longer had to cohabitate, and left his quarters.

=/\= Commander Sterling, this is Lt. Serron, the Chief Engineer. I am reporting to you per the Captain's orders. I am planning to report to engineering, and then the hangar deck, to assess the state of Tomcat's readiness. Unless you object, I should like to report there first, so as to be able to provide you with a status report.=/\=

=/\= That will be fine Mr Serron, I have my hands full at the moment as well, shall we say meet in my office at around 1500? Oh and Mr Serron welcome aboard =/\=

- Space Work bee 9 -

Jelan had been scouring the entire exterior of the ship when he found work bee 17 tangled up in the construction scaffolding. Apparently the pilot Corporal Virginia Hayes had spotted something and moved in for a closer look and hit and open EPS power tap which shorted out her work bee entirely.

Since she only had about an hour of life support Jelan grabbed her work bee with the mechanical claws and towed her back to the shuttle bay.

When they landed Jelan ordered Corporal Hayes to the sickbay for a check up. then had a maintenance crew get to work on restoring the work bee.

=/\= Lemoris to Commander Sterling, Security check of the outer hull is complete, only had a minor mishap but no injuries and no bombs or listening devices found. Lemoris out=/\=

After that Jelan headed back to the bridge to fight with the helm console again..

- Bridge/Between Tomcats walls -

Maia switched channels.

=/\=Sterling to Somers, Outer hull security checks completed still awaiting report from inner hull team, Sterling out.=/\=

=/\= Affirmative Commander =/\=

After suiting up S'arila and her team moved slowly between the inner hull and outer hull, there was a maintenance walkway or crawlspace for the team to move about. she had one team searching the left and two separate teams searching the struts from the hull to the torpedo pod. Her team was out there for at least a few hours, when the reports came in.

=/\=Team One, this is Team Two, Left side clear=/\=

=/\=Team three bottom of ships main hull is clear=/\=

=/\=Team four Left Pylon is clear=/\=

=/\=Team five Right Pylon is clear=/\=

=/\=Team one to all Teams Right side is clear, good job people, return to airlock, Donovan out=/\= S'arila said.

With that the teams spent the next two hours extracting themselves from the access ways.

"I hope Lemoris enjoyed his inspection pod" she quipped.

- Airlock - USS Tomcat -

As her teams arrived in the airlock and began taking off their suits she looked at them.

"Okay get a shower on and get some rack time" She said and her team nodded their thanks.

Before she herself had a shower she contacted the First Officer.

Tapping her Commbadge =/\= Donovan to Sterling =/\=

- Bridge -

Tapping her Commbadge=/\=Sterling here go ahead=/\=

=/\= Inner hull is all clear, I have sent my team for showers and rack time, wanted to report the all clear before I freshen up myself =/\=

=/\= Excellent, we didn’t find anything on the outer hull either. Main sensors are now online. Can you meet me in observation room four in 15 minutes? =/\=

=/\= Affirmative Commander, Donovan out =/\=

With that she closed the link and returned to her quarters where she jumped into the sonic shower.

- Observation Lounge 15 Minutes later -

Maia was waiting for S’arila and was famished so she replicated a scone and a cup of coffee. She was happily munching on it when S’arila showed up looking somewhat dishevelled. With triple shifts going on trying to get the Tomcat launched on time it was a miracle that no accidents had happened.

"Hello S'arila, The Skipper wanted me to inform you that you will have a new officer as part of your team, Marine Captain Alexandria Somers. Captain Lemoris will retain his position as XO of Bravo team. Keep an eye on her she is said to have a short fuse and a sharp tongue.. Her record is pretty convoluted. She is however fully trained. Any problems you can’t handle come to me about it. Is that understood"?

"Apologies Sir, not yet had time to freshen up" She said entering the room and keeping a respectful distance, due to her slightly off odour from being in an Environment suit for too long.

Looking at the XO as if she had mis-heard "Excuse me Commander, did you just say another Somers is coming aboard?" She asked and looked away "Note to self have the Lounge stock extra Bloodwine" She said then looked back at Sterling "apologies Commander this news surprised me a little. Hmm a short fuse and a sharp tongue sounds like a Somers all right" * Smile and a pause* Looking Sterling in the eyes Donovan's Red eyes brightened slightly "I will be fine commander, if I can handle our Skipper this Somers will be of little problem, but I will keep in mind the skippers directive to both of us" She said then looked in the direction of the Shuttle Bay.

She looked back to the First Officer "Looks like Alexandria Somers is landing Commander, my guess is that Armitage will be meeting her, I have to go make preperations and get a shower some rack time" Donovan said.

"No worries S'arilla, I haven't had a shower yet either, would you like some coffee"?

Maia sipped her coffee.

"I shall go meet her as well, your dismissed. go get your shower and rack time" Maia said.

Maia finished her coffee and scone then went down to the Shuttlebay looking for Captain Alexandria Somers.

After Serron had commed the Captain she responded.

=/\= That will be fine Mr Serron, I have my hands full at the moment as well, shall we say meet in my office at around 1500? Oh and Mr Serron welcome aboard. =/\=

"Thank you Commander that should be no problem. I will see you in your office at 1500."

Eager to get started (or as eager as one with Serron's level of control could

be, Serron made his way to the nearest turbolift.

“Deck 14, Main Engineering.”

As he said the words, Serron found himself experiencing an emotion that he was all too familiar with; pride. He was about to step into his first supervisory role, and he reminded himself to be careful of this irrational influence.

The turbolift arrived at Deck 14 quickly, and Serron took the most direct route to the primary observation area of Main Engineering.

- Main Engineering, Observation Deck -

He nodded to the Marine guards at the entrance, who had clearly been instructed to expect him. One of the Marines turned to Serron and spoke, simply and forcefully

Lieutenant, sir! Engineering has been informed of your arrival.

Somewhat taken aback by the directness of the Marine's delivery, Serron replied simply

As you were.

The armed guards did not do make it easy for Serron to quell his pride. He was now in charge of an entire department, on one of Starfleet's most heavily armed ships. But he had yet to take any real action in that post. That would almost certainly change, probably before the ship left port.

Upon entry, he took a moment to survey the area. Most prominent in the observation ara was the large, floor-mounted situational display, which monitored the operations of Main Engineering. From there, one could essentially monitor the vital signs of Tomcat. The colloquial designation was "Pool Table", if Serron recalled correctly.

As the doors slid shut behind him, Serron glanced out at the warp core, officially designated the M/ARA (Matter/Antimatter Assembly). Based on his initial observations, the standard complement was manning engineering: about 20 engineers and 40 techs. Serron noted that this would not be adequate in order to fulfil their goals.

He noticed that there were almost a dozen officers and crew in the observation area, which seemed more than necessary. None of them noticed his arrival.

Attention on deck!

At this, every eye in the room turned to him. He had projected loudly enough for all of Engineering to hear his call to attention, but he quickly keyed into Engineering's public address.

"I am Lieutenant Serron, the Chief Engineer. I have been instructed by the Captain that this ship is due to leave port in forty-eight hours. That means we will be ready to depart in, at most, twenty-four hours, with the remaining time spent on repeat diagnostics and optimization of this ship for action."

"Every inch of every component in Engineering will be tested and verified, both visually and with relevant equipment. FULL Level 1 and Level 2 diagnostics will be performed. After we are brought to the current designation of "full" readiness, I intend to show you what that term actually means. Several new protocols will be implemented to allow this ship to run to theoretical specifications and past."

"Once leaving port, we will first proceed at warp six, while we run another set of Level 2 Diagnostics. Upon successful completion of these in-flight tests, we will be proceeding at maximum speed. ALL engineering personnel are hereby called in for duty; double shifts to be expected until departure. That is all.

Serron turned, and left Engineering. He had been meaning to inspect his office, but there were more pressing matters to attend to. He entered the turbolift again, and instructed.

"Deck 8, Fighter Maintenance."

The turbolift arrived swiftly on Deck 8, which immediately appeared different to Serron. The lighting was different, darker and utilitarian. He noticed several placards on the walls, which warned that this area was for authorized personnel only. This was clearly one of Tomcat's unique areas.

Fighter Maintenance Hangar

Another Marine guard was stationed at the entrance to the hangar, but this one did not seem to recognize Serron.

"Lieutenant Serron, the new Chief Engineer. I'm here to take stock of the fighters."

The Marine took out a small Padd, keyed in a few commands, and held it up while looking at the Lieutenant.

"Very well, sir. Welcome aboard."

Serron nodded wordlessly, and entered the hangar. It was a bustle of activity, unlike anything Serron had seen outside of a Starbase. He counted 33 Valkyrie class fighters. That meant that more than 3/4 of Tomcat's fighter force was down for maintenance. To be expected, since they were in port, but still more than acceptable.

He called the deck to attention in the same manner as before, and found it pleasing to see the technicians and officers scurry to assume formation. He strode down the center of the deck, projecting loudly for all to hear.

"I am Lieutenant Serron, the new Chief Engineer. This ship is to be ready for departure in no less than forty-eight hours. That means this deck is to be ready for action in that time. Mission protocol allows for us to bring the ship to readiness en route to our objective, but I am not comfortable proceeding in this manner. I want us ready for action before departure. That means Level 1 diagnostics on ALL systems on ALL fighters. ALL hangar deck personnel can expect to work double-shifts until departure. I expect at least a dozen of these fighters to be ready before 1500 hours. You have your orders, dismissed."

The hangar deck exploded back into activity, at double the intensity. Serron was not entirely sure that the diagnostics on the ship's entire fighter force could be performed before departure, but he had decided that the best time to test his people was now, in port, before real action.

=/\= Commander Sterling, I believe we are to meet soon? Deck 14, correct?

=/\=

=/\= That is correct, I will see you then, Sterling out =/\= Came the response before the link was closed.

Shuttlebay/En-route to Deck One – USS Tomcat

Lucy was waiting on the flight deck as instructed by the CO, as she waited for their new Marine Officer she observed Lieutenant Serron making his rounds. Then the First Officer was standing Next to her.

"Hello Commander, I see you have also been instructed to meet our new Marine Officer too" Lucy said and it was not a question.

"Hi Lucy, I wasn't expecting to see you here". Maia said.

"Hello Commander, I see you have also been instructed to meet our new Marine Officer too. I know, but after you finished speaking to her, the boss wants her taken to the Ready Room. I was given such a task as Commander Somers knew you had other duties to attend to".

Maia chuckled.."Of course she did".

"I know, but after you finished speaking to her, the boss wants her taken to the Ready Room. I was given such a task as Commander Somers knew you had other duties to attend to" Lucy said as a shuttle arrived and landed on the Flight deck.

As the shuttle touched down, Alex picked up her kitbag and her TR-116 Rifle, which was in its carry case. Her Bladed weapons and Dual Desert Eagle Pistols were in her kitbag, now she looked out of the window and saw a Lieutenant Commander and a MCPO.

oO Interesting greeting party Oo She thought as she stepped out of the shuttle and onto the flight deck, with bags in hand she advanced towards the pair, she noticed the Commander wore the White Cord of Courage, obviously such a decoration was allowed here, stopping to attention in front of the Lieutenant Commander and MCPO, she introduced herself.

Maia made her way down to the light deck. She knew that MCpt A. Somers was landing soon, as she got there she saw the captain's yeoman.

When the shuttle landed several crew stepped off and then a marine officer of the appropriate rank she certainly looked like a Somers. She boldly strode over to them and introduced herself.

"Marine Captain Alexandria Somers requesting permission to come aboard Commander?" She asked.

"Permission granted, Captain, Welcome aboard, I am Lt Commander Maia Sterling, the Executive officer, and this is Master Chief Lucy Armitage, Chief of the boat and the Captain's Yeoman. You've been assigned to Bravo unit, and Captain Somers wanted us to do a meet and greet then escort you to the ready room. Please follow us."

Nodding "A pleasure Commander, Chief" She said greeting Lucy, the Master Chief only nodded and smiled, as she was led away from the flight deck.

"Please come with us Captain Somers". Maia said

Maia turned and led the two to the Captain's Ready Room.

"Yes I have some, what type of Akira is this? I know there are subtypes, but I cannot identify this one" Alex said.

"This is a Marine sub-type, this means the ship has less evac space as the room has been made for extra fighters and Marine shuttles and equipment, plus she is heavier armed than any current Akira in Service" Armitage said.

Ah, gotcha; so tell me what’s my Cousin like to work for?"

"I've served with her on several campaigns. She is brave, intelligent, unorthodox and resourceful and not entirely by the book. She can adapt to knew situations, personally I find tough but fair and overall an excellent commander. I do hope those attributes run in the family, Captain. I don't know exactly what happened on your last assignment but with me you will always get a fair shake. It is my sincerest hope that you will adapt to our family and truly become an integral part of it. Also let me say up front that if you ever carelessly put this ship or crew in danger I will space you myself, I hope that I have cleared the air here. Welcome aboard!! Maia said.

Maia led then to the Captain's Ready Room, where the boss was.

Lucy looked strangely at the First Officer, but spoke to Alex "but honestly Captain, if you are a true Somers, then what qualities your Cousin has, you will likely share some of them" Armitage said.

Looking directly at the First Officer "You will find Commander that I possess most of those qualities too, and trust me when I say this, I am a Somers and I will do what a Somers will do" She said, then with a sweet smile "I hope I also have cleared the air Commander?" She asked. "Also I look forward to being here, I understand you have a Klingon Squadron stationed on the Tomcat, just curious Commander, how are they faring with standard Starfleet quarters and how do you manage to avoid any fires getting out of control, as the Klingon tendency to kill and eat Targs must make eating difficult?" Alex asked.

"She is definitely a Somers, that’s for sure" Armitage said.

"You have cleared the air Captain. I appreciate the candour, I'm pretty blunt myself sometimes. The Klingon squadron is as yet untested; however they are all excellent pilots with that Klingon warrior tradition. Have you worked with Klingon's before?"

*Smiling wildly* "Oh Commander if only you knew" She said them more seriously "I was still a teenager when I attained high qualifications in the use of three Klingon melee weapons, the Bat'leth, Mek'Leth and Dag'TagH knife. While my Cousin may play it down as will I, my father is ambassador to Kronos, he holds the honorary rank of Colonel as that was his rank before retiring from active service. Apparently his unit fought aside some Klingon highly placed Elite Warriors during the Dominion War and gained their respect; *pause* a respect that gave him permission to allow his offspring to train with Klingon warriors on Kronos. So far myself and Commander Somers are the only two humans to have trained with Klingon’s, personally I think we were the lab rats" Alex said and paused a moment.

"Before coming here I heard that the Klingon martial Academy has allowed twelve new humans to train in melee weapons, from what I hear tell the majority are Marine recruits, but there are some Fleet Officers in there too"

The group fell into silence for a moment as they entered the Turbolift and the doors closed and the First Officer gave the destination command.

Maia nodded.

"I was unaware of that, and how do they fair in training Ms Somers"? Maia asked.

Looking at the First Officer "From what I last heard only half of them made round two of the training, the losing six will never again train on Kronos, they failed to prove themselves, so to the Klingon's they are not worth the effort to train further" Alex said.

Lucy listened to the conversation going on between the two Officers and inwardly sighed, this made her glad she was not an Officer, but in time they arrived on Deck one on the outside of the bridge. As they walked from the lift Lucy turned to Sterling.

"Commander I will take Captain Somers to the CO, you look like you need a break or have something to do" Lucy said, knowing full well the First Officer had lots on.

"That is very impressive Ms Somers; your skills must be championship quality". Maia replied.

"Commander I will take Captain Somers to the CO, you look like you need a break or have something to do" Lucy said.

"Thank you Master Chief, I do have a lot to attend to before we launch".

Maia then turned to Captain Somers. "It was very nice to meet you Captain Somers. I'm sure you will prove yourself to be an asset on this mission". Maia said.

With that Maia shook Alexandria's hand and walked off onto the bridge to check in with her science staff..

After shaking the First Officers hand Alex went in the direction of her Cousins Ready Room.

Pressing the anounciator comm. panel "Captain, Marine Captain Somers is here" Lucy said.

=/\= Thank you Lucy, send her in =/\= Jasmine responded.

Looking at Alex, "You can go in Captain" She said and watched the female Marine enter. Lucy sighed; she had a feeling that Captain Alex Somers would be spending lots of time with the Klingon fighter Pilots in her spare time.

- Captain's Ready Room -

Jasmine was in her Ready room when Lucy had escorted a Marine Officer into, like Jasmine she had red hair and her face was a picture of surprise.

"Thank you Lucy" Jasmine said and her Yeoman nodded and left.

"Hello Alex, how’s things been with you?" Jasmine asked with a smile.

Looking at her Cousin in clear surprise "I am fine thanks" she said and looked up at the banners behind Jasmine's desk "I see you can take the Uniform off the Marine, but you cannot take the Marine out of the Uniform" Alex said with a smile as she accepted a hug from her cousin.

Going over and giving her cousin a hug "please be seated and lets begin shall we?" Jasmine said sitting down behind her desk as Alex sat in front of it.

"So What is to become of me, now that I am here?" Alexandria asked.

"You will be given the official rank of Marine Captain effective immediately, you will have to wear the White Cord as you have earned it and you will be assigned to Bravo Unit under Major Donovan." Jasmine said.

Looking at Jasmine with mild surprise "so its back up two ranks to Marine Captain and I have to wear the white cord" She said.

"Yes, it was wrong of your last Commander to demote you so far for no apparent reason. I personally as a CO thought it harsh to demote 3 ranks, so this is my way of saying the CO of the Niagara or whoever on that ship actually done it stick you" Jasmine said with a smile.

"I know I have earned it, but my first posting was Starbase 218 and there were no 95th Rifles there and I was unsure if the White Cord would be allowed so I did not wear it. As to what happened on the Niagara, the Captain denies all knowledge of my large demotion from Major to Second Lieutenant. I have my suspicions and it no longer involves the Q; also I think it was a little harsh and nasty of the Niagara's Commanding Officer. While I kept a polite tone I was glad to be from that ship, they are in no way ready to host a Marine contingent" Alex said.

"A new ship, I have read their service Jackets, both CO and XO are of long standing Military families and it seems the old traditions have not died out with them, never mind what’s done is done, that is in your past now. So get your stuff stowed, Lucy will show you where you will be billeted, I will let you get settled in and expect Major Donovan or Commander Sterling to contact you. Also I cannot show special treatment to you despite us being family" Jasmine said.

"Understood, I would not expect anything less, speaking of the XO she met me along with your Yeoman upon my arrival here, it was interesting" Alex said and saw her cousin smile. "I take it we are done here?" She asked.

"Yes we are, Lucy will take you to your quarters, expect another meeting with the XO or Major Donovan soon, but until then you are to get settled in, and welcome to the Tomcat Alex" Jasmine said.

Alex nodded and stood up, picking up her stuff as Lucy entered.

"If you will come this way please Marine Captain I will show you to your billet" Lucy said.

Jasmine watched the pair leave, looked at the desk chrono "Oh my I better get me some rack time, otherwise my XO is going to use me for target practice" She said to herself and took her own advice and left her ready room for her quarters, safe in the knowledge that Maia would keep things running.

- Bridge -

After the outer hull security check, Jelan decided to get a shower and get something to eat. As he was showering he wondered if chef had any of that beef stew left. Normally he didn't go for off world food, but that was one delicacy that he could definitely live with.

Commander Sterling certainly seemed to have a bee in her bonnet, She always wanted everything yesterday. That lady was tough as nails, tougher even than some Marine Corps drill instructors that had graced his life back when he was at the academy. He decided that sonic shower had nothing on the real thing, real being an old fashioned water shower he used to enjoy on Bajor when he was a boy. Of course He wasn't under Cardassian occupation in Starfleet. Still He had learned to enjoy the small little pleasures in life.

After donning a fresh uniform and making his way down to the mess hall, He got some of that fresh beef stew and a large roll and chowed down, he was hungrier than he thought and once sated he decided to go to the bridge and work on that helm console.

The upgraded Mk III isolinear circuitry was not without its share of bugs. true it was much faster than even the bio neural gel packs and without that annoying chance of some bio contaminant eating away at your control circuitry. The Mk III isolinear design utilized 4th dimensional holographic memory storage and access increasing the speed of computer controlled circuitry by an order of magnitude. Still there were a lot of problems with production. seemed only 80 percent of the new chips were pure, as the sensory equipment couldn't quite scan for 4th dimensional anomalies and be 100 percent accurate. As a result he was in the process of going through every circuit on his console.

It was commander sterling who set him on this task she reasoned that a helmsman should know every circuit on his board; She was also the one who suggested that he use a multi phase trident to scan each circuit. So far he had found eleven chips that needed replaced. It was long work, but by the time he was done, he would know the console inside and out. So far he had been at it for a week.

There was a lot of activity on the bridge today. Most of the other bridge stations were in about the same state as his although the navigation station was already repaired and operating at 100 percent. at least the Tomcat would be able to chart a true course.

Commander Sterling had a detail of twenty working on the computer core and they looked to be about done. At least LCARS was back online.

Maia Sterling was on an off the bridge a lot it seemed. The Captain kept her hopping, so he was the senior officer on the bridge at the moment. Captain Somers was busy with something, and the Tomcat kept getting crew replacements in.

About an hour later, he ran through the final circuit and turned the console on, and got shocked for his efforts.

"Ahhhhhh" He almost screamed. he turned off the console ran a diagnostic and replaced the J26 circuit. After that his console came on line. He then re-calibrated it.

=/\= Dockyard control to Tomcat =/\=

Since he was the senior officer on duty Jelan responded.

=/\= Tomcat here, Captain Lemoris speaking =/\=

=/\= Be advised We have completed work on the structural integrity field, superstructure and internal sensors, you can begin running calibration tests at your convenience, dockyard control out =/\=

=/\= Acknowledged Control Tomcat out =/\=

As the duty officer Jelan made a log comment, then contacted Commander Sterling and advised her of the update.

Alexanderia was really happy to be appointed to the CMO postion on the Tomcat and rushed to get her stuff onboard and stored away. She the made sure her uniform was right and went to the Bridge.

She stepped off the turbo lift and went to the command chair and smiled, "Dr Alexanderia Cahill reporting for duty as The CMO for the USS Tomcat."

She stood by waiting for further information. While there she listened to what was being said due to needing to catch-up with what was going on.

Jasmine was sitting on the bridge in her chair watching things going on around her, she had her sleep and felt better for it, now she wanted to be amidst the humdrum of activity. She was a little startled that a new arrival took her off guard, swivelling the chair around to see a Lieutenant in Science Blues who introduced herself.

"Hello Lieutenant, welcome to the USS Tomcat, so you are my new Chief Medical Officer" She paused as she contacted someone.

A Moment later a Master Chief Petty Officer came onto the bridge.

"Lieutenant Cahill, please meet Master Chief Petty Officer Armitage, she will show you first to your quarters, then to Medical, there you will be left to your own devices. Expect the XO to speak to you also at some point, now we are currently making preparations to head out to the Mira Sector and to Galen IV, Lucy will make the Mission Brief available to you, please read it. So basically you will need to get sickbay into order" Jasmine finished.

Lucy waited till the Captain had finished "please to meet you Lieutenant, now if you follow me I will show you your quarters and Medical and I will answer any questions you may have and if I can answer them I will" Armitage said.

Alexanderia listened to what was being said about the Orion’s. She was amazed at the knowledge there was on them as she smiled.

"Captain from a medical point of view, we have noticed the slaves are well cared for and given all necessary medial assistance as needed. They appear to take extremely good care of the slaves and seem to give the proper care necessary to keep them going."

"Understood Captain, as she smiled thank you for the welcome to the Tomcat nice to meet you CPO Armitage."

She followed her to her quarters and then over to Sick Bay, Everything was nice but she did see a lot needed to be done. She sent a message for someone from Engineering to re-calibrate all the exam tables and tri-corders. She needed them in top notch shape and only settled for the best and would accept the best.

Alexanderia made herself busy, she was checking all medical systems personally as the Engineering team was calibrating the systems.

"Make sure everything is ready Petty Officer, One day your life or that of a close friend may depend on the equipment working like it should and I dont want a bad calibration to cause a miss diagnosis."

He looked up and smiled, "Understood doc and welcome to the Tomcat. Hope to only see you for my Bi-yearly physicals." He kept on working.

Alexanderia kept on making up grades to the medical treatments and also checking out the current ones. She deleted the obsolete files and added what was new. She noticed that things were getting close to what She needed but still was tense. She wanted all systems at full steam when they left for the mission.

Elsewhere on the bridge…

Once the calibrations were completed on the helm console Jelan took a seat in the captains chair as he was the senior officer on the bridge and the officer of the day. At least for another three minutes. He was due for relief soon. He still had duties as the Bravo unit XO that required his attention.

A whole slew of technicians were on the bridge laying optical cable and installing components. they only had 12 more hours in space dock and even now some stations were going through their pre-launch checklists.

"Captain can I get a hand over here please"? One of the engineering techs asked.

"Sure I'll be there presently" Jelan said.

Jelan looked over and saw that the tech was installing a new interface console to the security/tactical station, that particular component looked pretty cumbersome. To heavy for one man to handle with precision.

Between the two of them they got the console in and activated within 30 seconds.. Fits like a glove...

Jasmine decided to do something in her Ready Room, she stood up and started to leave when she saw Lemoris doing technical work.

oO Interesting Oo "A man of many talents I see Lemoris, now I know you are capable of technical tasks, expect more such tasks in the near future" She said with a smile.

“Atten-shun” Lemoris said standing bolt upright.

Looking at the Marine Captain, "At ease Captain, we are not on parade now, but might I ask what you are doing on my bridge at this moment in time?"

"Thank you Captain I was just lending a hand" Jelan said. I thought you were getting some rack time, Sir!" Jelan stated.

"Got me what I needed Lemoris, remember I am an ex-Marine, just because I am wearing Red, never forget this" She said.

"I am the duty officer today Captain, that and I was realigning the helm console, several of the new components needed same major adjustments".

"Eh..you may be wearing a fleeter uniform Sir, but you are all marine!!"

Looking at Lemoris with a smile, "thank you Captain, carry on with your task, I will not hinder you" with that she nodded once and went to the back of the bridge to check up on other bridge crew and what they were doing

- Medical -

After checking things on the bridge Cahill had returned to Medical, she looked up as the doors opened and the Commander entered.

After leaving the bridge in Lemoris' capable hands and after all they were not going anywhere, Jasmine decided to get her medical over and done with, so she walked into Medical.

"Doctor Cahill, I will get my medical out of the way" She said, sitting up on the bio-bed.

Things were about as ready as they could be in Sick bay. Alexanderia switched her priorities now. She need to update the duty roster and add all new crew members to the schedule and also decide on where their positions would be during a Red Alert.

The Captain came in a wanted her medical exam done as she sat on the table. "Glad to help to you Captain Somers. She pulled up her chart and smiled. Nothing out of the normal aches and pains from overworking I presume Captain? As I note all the readings from the Bio-Bed."

"Lieutenant Commander Sterling came by and got hers out of the way before she went on duty. I have to admit I do like her. She is very friendly. Also here is the report for Sick Bay , you saved me a trip to the Bridge to deliver it."

"I know Maia is friendly, I am choosy on who my XO is Lieutenant" Jasmine said with a smile, indicating the Padd next to the doctor "That for me Lieutenant? Also how goes the pre-set off mission examinations?" She asked her two questions.

"We are ready and able to handle whatever you decide to throw at us. 95% of the physicals are done already and the rest will be done in the next 36 hours. Everyone is good and fit for duty."

Smiling "Good to hear" Jasmine was about to ask something else when a Marine entered looking a little pale and holding his arm, the Doctor went over to see to the Marine while Jasmine sat there twiddling her thumbs.

She was about done when engineering brought in a marine with minor injuries. She stood back and watched as the Sick Bay crew members took care of him. In a few minutes he was taken care of and was resting comfortably. Ensign Johnson comes over and handed her the report.

"He had no serious injuries but needed to stay in Sick Bay for observation."

She smiled and signed off on the medical order and went by to see him.

"How did this happen sergeant?"

He looked at her and smiled back, "Hand to hand Combat Training Doctor. I let my guard down and got slammed."

"Ok you learned a hard lesson didn't you?"

He laughed, "Yes Ma'am"

As things went sickbay began to get busy, Jasmine looked around and stood.

"Am I okay to leave El tee?" She asked Cahill

"Captain, I was waiting on some results that just came in. You are in terrific ship[ and I am signing off stating you are Fit for duty. I also did not find anything you need to worry about."

Smiling as if she knew what the doctor already said " Thank you Doctor, I think I have taken up enough of your time, Injuries come first."

She handed the pad to the nurse and smiled as the Captain left Sick Bay. She hated to break away from her but anyone that is hurt comes first. No matter what rank they are.

With a nod to the Doctor and the Marine Sergeant Jasmine left Sickbay.

First Officers Cabin – Same day

Maia slept for a good seven hours. She was far more tired than she gave herself credit for. A quick check of her chronometer indicated it was 0400 hrs. This gave Maia at least 2 hours before she was due on the bridge.

She walk over to the replicator, "Coffee dark roast hot" she ordered into the replicator.

The coffee materialized on the pad and Maia grabbed it and went over to her desk computer. Turning it on to see if she had any pending messages. Fortunately all she had was a message from Mr Lemoris stating that the structural integrity field was back online and that all repairs to the outer hull were completed. Maia was pleased with this bit of news. That meant the ship could launch on time.

Maia sipped her coffee, and then went over some specs for the new astrophysics sensors that had been installed as part of the upgrades for the upcoming is mission.

Next she activated her Star Fleet News Service; apparently Admiral Kaitlin Walford died of natural causes on Cestus III She was quite young. Maia decided to send her condolences to the family. She also wondered who would be installed as the new commander of Pegasus Fleet.

- Marine Exercises - Marine Level -

The exec got up, and then got dressed in her gym clothes. She had been doing callisthenics with the grunts for over a month now and was in the best shape of her life. She was in the gym by 0500 doing squat thrusts, sit-ups and running with all the Marines. Working out seemed to clear her mind and invigorate her with a sense of purpose, not to mention elevating the sense of Esprit De Corps among the troops.

The exec got up, then got dressed in her gym clothes. She had been doing callisthenics with the grunts for over a month now and was in the best shape of her life. She was in the gym by 0500 doing squat thrusts, sit-ups and running with all the Marines. Working out seemed to clear her mind and invigorate her with a sense of purpose, not to mention elevating the sense of Esprit De Corps among the troops.

Alex after her meeting with her Cousin she had been shown to her new quarters and checked the interior of the ship and found out that the Marines run Calisthenics and other physical exertion exercises. Now dressed in her exercise gear she arrived and saw the back of a familiar person, like all female Marines she kept her body in good shape, but unlike most other female marines she had Amazonian type build and muscles, with her hair in a tight bun she walks up and stands next to the First Officer.

"We meet again Commander, I see you do some training with the grunts!" She said, "Also when did you make Chosen Man Commander? I noticed the white cord on your uniform. Not many Fleet Officers attain such an honour, I have no doubt you proved yourself, but it also tells me that my Cousin holds you in high regard and that goes a long way with me" She said with a sideways look and a small smile.

"Good Morning Captain, Yes I train with the grunts as often as possible at least 6 times a week. How else do you think I maintain my girlish figure and rapier wit" Maia said smiling. "I made chosen man during or last mission approximately 4 months ago for actions and service during the Hydaransz mission. It was an honour I certainly didn't expect it, but when I found out that this was a marine troop ship I started training with the grunts and learning everything I could about the culture. A crew is only as strong as there weakest link and I was determined not to be that link. Your Cousin decided to put me through specialized training and when I succeeded and led troops into combat successfully, it was then that your cousin bestowed this honour upon me". Maia said.

"I will say this once only Commander, you have my loyalty" Alex said without a condescending or nasty tone, in fact it was more neutral than she normally used, then fell silent.

"I will always endeavour to reciprocate that loyalty and be worthy of it Captain". Maia replied.

After several sets of high G sit-ups, squat thrusts, jumping jacks and a 10 mile run, Maia went back to her quarters took a sonic shower and got dressed in a standard duty uniform. She was due on the bridge in ten minutes.

Jelan led first platoon through the 10 mile run, the first sergeant actually led the overall session. After the run Jelan showered and changed then went to the mortar range on the holodeck. As he was now the Mar Det XO he often personally observed how the marines trained. Today Bravo unit was receiving advanced infantry drills. The terrain was eerily similar to Hydaranz 6. Today the platoon was playing a version of foxes and hounds. First platoon played the Foxes and and 2nd and third platoon that hounds. The hounds seemed to be winning, but utilizing cover stealth and the natural aggressiveness of the Starfleet marine the foxes regrouped, countered and defeated the hounds despite use of mortars.

Jelan took notes he would have to write this up.

After the demonstration on the holodeck, Jelan went to the bridge. His duty shift there started at 0800.

- Bridge -

Technically the Tomcat was ready for launch all repairs and upgrades had been completed hours ago.

Jelan re-calibrated the helm console one last time before launch and so far things were five by five. He did wonder about the new shield generators and Phaser upgrades, which were so far untested. Tactical systems had been tested in simulation only, but from what Jelan had heard this ship was to go into almost immediate combat operations.

S'arila having finished her duties below decks arrived on the bridge and took over at Tactical Station and looked at the Helm/Navigation Station.

"Greetings Captain Lemoris, you fare well this day?" She asked as she readied her console.

"Ah Major Donovan, good day for a launch, wouldn't you say? So far the day is going well Ma'am. Foxes and hounds drill was interesting this morning to say the least, and I’ve managed to calibrate the helm console one more time before we launch. Sorry we missed you for PT. Did our good doctor catch you for a physical his morning"?

Looking at Lemoris as she took her place at Tactical "No, unfortunately I did not Jelan, I had other things to do. Did you manage to get in some exercise?" S'arila asked.

"Yes Ma'am, it was very invigorating, Commander sterling and the new Marine officer Captain Alex Somers was their too. Afterwards the troops played foxes and hounds fine tuned their tactical abilities, blue team won using some very unorthodox strategy. I left a report for you in your inbox makes for some very interesting reading."

Smiling at Lemoris with a knowing smile "Good to hear" She said and sensed the Captain approaching, sometimes her telepathic abilities were more of a pain than a good thing.

Then Captain Somers entered the bridge. Jelan snapped to attention. "Captain on the bridge" Jelan shouted.

Captain Somers strode over to Commander Sterling and asked for a SITREP.

Jelan turned back to his board and plotted a course out of space dock.

Maia was on the bridge at exactly 0800, she was always very punctual. Fact of the matter was she had several full plates right now, however she felt great. The adrenaline rush from this mornings PT was still fresh in her system. Combined with a good nights sleep, and a fresh meal in her belly, she felt like million bars of gold pressed Latinum.

Maia noted the Captain was not on the bridge, off since they were due to launch in one hour.

Maia went over to the captain’s chair and relieved the third shift duty officer. Then took a seat and started going over the morning reports and ships manifest. She also noted Captain Somers was in the sick bay getting her physical. According to the morning reports all ships systems were functioning normally. Tomcat was ready for launch.

After leaving sickbay Jasmine headed straight for the turbolift, when she was fully in and the doors had closed "Bridge"

As she waited for the lift to get to its destination she mulled over she new mission, it was expected to be a very interesting one. When the lift doors opened onto the Bridge Jasmine looked around to see who was currently on the bridge and walked over to her XO.

"Good morning Maia you sleep well? And a sitrep if you will" She said.

"Good Morning Captain, A wonderful day for a launch. I slept very well and even got in some PT before my duty shift started. Dockyard reports all repairs and upgrades completed, we can depart at your discretion. Serron reported a minor fluctuation in energizer number 4 that has since been corrected. My board is all green, I recommend we get underway, Ma'am."

"Yes I think it is Maia" She said before taking over the Center seat from Maia Jasmine takes a look around the bridge then back at Maia and finally at Lemoris.

Maia took her seat at the first officer’s chair after she had been relieved at the science station. Dock control reported that they were cleared to leave, the moorings were cleared, and the Tomcat was floating free.

Then the Captain gave the order

"Take us out Captain Lemoris, make sure you have permission from Starbase 39 Sierra flight Control first" She said.

“Aye, Aye Captain” Lemoris responded and suited words to actions

With all crew physicals finish Alexanderia returned to doing paperwork and checking on supplies for Sick Bay. She sent a report to Captain Somers and Lieutenant Commander Sterling letting them know everything was good in Sick Bay and they were ready to leave the Docking Port when ready.

Alexanderia did a review of Sick Bay personnel and made adjustments to where they were to go to during a Red Alert or an attack. She liked to disperse personnel to different locations to be able to better handle anything that could possibly happen.

With the Tomcat leaving Space Dock, Alexanderia took up a station on the Bridge to be better able to direct all radical personnel. As she watch we left the Space Dock and proceeded to go off to new adventures.

She could not resist, she smiled. "All medical system ready when needed Captain."

Looking at Cahill with a smile "thank you, helm take us out one quarter thrusters till we leave space-dock then go to maximum warp heading Mira Sector" Jasmine said.

There was a slight sense of forward momentum, but Maia could see from the view screen that they were now moving out of the dock..

"Aye Captain one quarter ahead". Jelan responded.

The helm controls were all touch pad now so he carefully applied forward thrust.

"We have cleared space dock; we are free and clear to navigate. Setting course 257 mark 19 for the Mira sector Captain". Lemoris responded.

Once the warp drive status light on the board was green, and the Tomcat was pointed in the right direction, he activated the warp drive. Star lines appeared on the view screen as the Tomcat shot into warp..

"Warp 2...Warp 5...Warp 6..Warp 7..Warp 9...Maximum warp Captain" Jelan reported.

Sitting back in her Seat "thank you helm, Lieutenant Cahill ships medical status?" Jasmine asked.

The ships Chief Medical Officer worked the controls then promptly responded.

"All medical monitoring systems are working perfect Captain. No problems seen. All crew members are handling the situation well in normal parameters of stress for their species. All life support systems are operating in normal parameters also."

"Thank you Lieutenant, Commander Sterling what’s the Engineering status?"

"Nothing but a few settling in adjustments Captain, sensors were showing some minor buckling on the port nacelle, however it was due to a cross connection from the new structural integrity field. Technicians are currently correcting it. The warp drive is operating at 97.6 percent efficiency. We will have more information when they complete a level three diagnostic. We are ready to begin weapons drills at your command."

"Good to hear, begin weapon drills Commander, I do not wish to be caught with our pants down when we get to Galen IV" Jasmine said.

- First Officers Quarters -

"First officers log Stardate 86472.13. We have been travelling to the Mira sector for the last three days, Our ETA is 4 hours. Long range sensors do not indicate any hostilities that we can see. Captain Somers and I have been drilling the crew in battle stations drills every two hours around the clock, crew efficiently was a bit sluggish at first, however practice makes perfect and we are maintaining a 98.6 percent or better efficiently rating."

*pause*

"I am concerned about the outcome of this mission. In order for the Federation to extend its reach it may become necessary to construct a Starbase in the area. Also the Orion syndicate seems to be gaining power and notoriety for the first time in over 70 years after a period of steep decline. It seems slavery is becoming fashionable again to certain interested parties. The addition of certain rogue elements of the Tal'shiar, the Obsidian Order and Section 31 have their hand in the events of this mission as well. The galactic powers have been considerably weakened through years and years of galactic conflict, perhaps the criminal element sees there chance to regain a foot-hold of power in an otherwise civilized galaxy. Further updates as events warrant.

Sterling Maia A, Executive officer reporting.

Log out."

Maia finished with her crew evaluations when the klaxon started sounding..

"Red Alert, Red Alert."

The last three days had been very eventful for Mr Lemoris sitting at the helm, battle station drills and war games. duty shifts were very busy. for the first time in the last three days he drew watch as the officer of the day and was currently sitting in the center seat. He watched the stars streaking by on the view screen.

"Captain Lemoris I am picking up a distress call from a system less than 2 light hours away from here. A Trellian freighter is under attack in the Maab system" Communications Officer Rodriguez said.

RED ALERT *Ships alert level sounded*

=/\=Captain Somers and Commander Sterling to the bridge=/\=

=/\= This better bear real Marine Captain =/\= She said then more calmly =/\= On my way, SIT REP when I arrive =/\=

That sounded like Jelan's voice..

Maia pulled on her uniform blouse and hot footed it to the Bridge.

- Captain’s Quarters -

Jasmine was taking a relaxing break, she had ordered a pause in readiness drills, now with her top tunic off, she sat down and as she took a swig of tea from her mug.

"Red Alert, =/\= "Captain Somers and Commander Sterling to the bridge"=/\=

So surprised she was she sat forward quickly spraying her mouthful of tea everywhere as the Alert status changed.

"Dang flabbit, Jelan this better not be a bloody drill, if it is I will have your hide" She quipped as she stood up placing her mug down and putting her tunic on and grabbing her Commbadge and activating it.

 =/\= This better bear real Marine Captain =/\= She said then more calmly =/\= On my way, SIT REP when I arrive =/\= She said and left her quarters and headed straight to the nearest turbolift doing her tunic up as she went.

oO The Captain sounded pissed Jelan thought Oo

=/\=Captain Sick Bay is standing by and ready.=/\=

=/\=Acknowledged=/\= Jelan responded, then looked at the Science Officer "Science what kind of ships are they?" He asked.

"Three Orion warships attacking a Rigellian convoy, there appear to be 3 Rigellian destroyers ships defending the convoy of 10 freighters but they are hopelessly outmatched" Science officer Masada reported.

Jelan made the call, "Change course 174 mark 16 ahead maximum warp, Comms Warn those ships off."

Hearing the Red Alert Dr Cahill went to the Bridge. She always liked to be there when it happened to get a better picture of what is going on. As She came on the Bridge she heard a ship was being attacked.

She tapped her communications badge, =/\=Sick Bay standby to receive causalities.=/\=

Dr Jamison responded back, =/\=Sick Bay ready and standing by=/\=

She listened to the conservation on the Bridge. "Captain Sick Bay is standing by and ready.

Jasmine had just arrived on the bridge as first Lemoris then the Chief Medical Officer spoke.

Taking over from Lemoris who returned to helm control as other senior officers arrived back on the bridge, their resident telepath Major S'arila Donovan took over at tactical; now sitting in her chair "all is forgiven Lemoris" She said to the Bajoran Marine Officer.

As Jelan gave his orders, the captain returned to the bridge..

"Captain on the Bridge". Jelan said then added  "Yes Ma'am". Jelan replied.

The Captain looked around for just a moment summarized what she saw, then took over.

"ETA to the convoy is 1 minute 8 seconds; we will be within weapons range in 45 seconds".

Jelan relieved the helm officer, checked his panel and got ready for potential battle. The turbolift doors opened and Commander Sterling reported to the bridge. She noted Captain Somers already on the bridge so she made her way to the main science station.

Shortly behind Jelan S'arila arrived on the bridge, there was a new Marine Tactical Officer doing some duty on the bridge so she stood over him to observe what he was doing.

"Excellent job the El tee" Donovan said to the stand in Tactical Officer.

"All stations ready yourselves, take us in Captain, Comms try to hail the Rigellian ship and let them know help is on its way, Helm change course to intercept" Jasmine said and both officers nodded. Just then Maia arrived on the bridge, looking a little dishevelled; Jasmine knew how her XO felt, as she felt the same. Now looking at Sterling "take your post Commander, seems we have Orion’s attacking a Rigellian Convoy, we are on an intercept course to that convoy she added as the First Officer took up the Science station.

- Orion Pirate ship -

Leader Sarina looked as the convoy tried to defend itself but was outmatched 10 to one. Already the third Cruiser of the group had disabled two of the Rigellian escort destroyers and had engaged the third. Easy picking's for her squadron. The second had attached itself to one of the freighters and was even now boarding it. If all went well they would have there cargo in less than 4 minutes...

"Prepare to board the lead freighter. Dock the ship then run the tachyon pulse to disable her main power systems." Sarina ordered.

"Ship is disabled Leader". tactical officer Corm announced.

"Very good", Sarina said. "Board her and capture the iridium cargo, if you have enough time strip her of her main memory core."

About a minute into the operation her tactical officer reported, "Leader one of the destroyers got off a distress call."

"A distress call? Were the jammers activated?" Sarina asked.

"Yes leader but one of the destroyers got off a lucky shot disabling one of the jammers" Corm replied.

oO Changing tides of war. Oo Sarina thought.

"Status of capture"

"Leader we have captured 100 metric tons of the refined Iridium ore, 50 Kilograms of bio mimetic gel and several tons of small arms weaponry."

"Have the Ladies Vengeance abort the operation and lay stasis mines, and expedite capture of this ship. Increase power to the sensors to look for incoming ships" Sarina ordered.

"Leader a Federation Starship Akira class has picked up the distress call, they are turning and heading in our direction. They are sending a hail, no a warning. They are ordering us to cease hostilities and withdraw" Corm said.

"ETA and distance of the Federation Battle cruiser?" Sarina asked.

"ETA two minutes leader, distance 1.2 light years" Corm advised.

"Recall all plunderers, stand by on torpedoes target the Rigellian's life support systems."

"Target locked leader, all plunderers have beamed back. Ship detaching" Corm advised.

Sarina was upset they were not able to complete the plundering of such ripe targets.

"Federation Starship will be in weapons range in 30 seconds" Corm advised.

"Alert all ships, Escape pattern gamma epsilon. All ships retreat maximum warp. Fire torpedoes" Sarina said.

- Bridge - Day 2 -

Maia relieved the science officer on Science one, and checked her display..

"Captain the Orion raiders look as if they are preparing to retreat."

"Wait they just fired torpedoes at the Rigellian freighters they have destroyed their life support systems" Maia advised.

She checked her sensors again.

"The Orion's and entered warp on three different escape vectors" Maia advised.

Jasmine gave her XO a look that could melt duranium "Commander you and Lemoris take three teams and each take a freighter, have the teams consist of two Marines and a mix of both engineering and Medical teams, also find out what this convoy was carrying, I am going over the lead ship"

“Yes Captain” Maia responded.

As Maia was moving into action a young Ensign took over from Lemoris "Name Ensign" Jasmine asked.

The young Ensign look back with a mix of emotions "Ensign Robert Barker Captain"

"Well Mr. Barker do you have the lead on the main Pirate ship?" She asked.

"Yes" He responded after checking the readings.

"The moment the three teams have beamed over to those freighters give chase at Maximum warp, Tactical when we get into Phaser range target the ships engines both impulse and warp, I want that target disabled not destroyed" She said as the Tomcat slowed to half impulse to allow the three teams to transport over.

Activating the Comms =/\= Bridge to transporter Room, Your teams ready Commander? =/\= She asked.

"Aye Captain, Hailing the Rigellian vessels to let them know we are boarding with damage control teams.. They acknowledge. they are definitely in need of aid."

"Jelan your with me.." Then tapping her Commbadge =/\= Dr Cahill we could use some of your medical team's Captain Bron has indicated many wounded Rigellian's on each ship. =/\=

=/\= Acknowledged Commander, I have teams standing by and ready to go. They are in line to go over after the Engineering teams. So they can take care of the injuries there. I also have Triage teams in 2 Cargo Bays to treat the ones that may need to be brought to the Tomcat. I am also planning to take part and transport over also. =/\=

Maia checked her board again flipped some switches and got another acknowledgment.

"Three damage control teams are on there way to transporter room two; Captain request to use shuttles to transport parts and equipment."

Pressing the Comms button on her chair arm =/\= Permission granted Commander =/\= She said.