Mission 15 - Be Wary Of Your Friends (JM with Starbase 386)

[Starbase 386 Crew]

ON: <Starbase 386, Wardroom, Station Day 4, 1330>

Lange stifled a sigh as he rubbed his temples and tried to block out the arguing of the various delegates. He had a massive headache and saw no chance of it going away any time soon without help. Most of the morning had been spent introducing the various delegates to one another, and then what had been intended to be a discussion of the agenda had degenerated into an argument between the two Romulan delegates about whether or not the Reman delegation should even be allowed to be present, much less a participant.

After a break for lunch, not much had improved. The Romulans were still arguing, the Klingon ambassador was hurling insults at each of the Romulans for holding up the proceedings, the Ferengi appeared to be wagering on the outcome, the Cardassian ambassador was watching the whole affair with what appeared to be almost sadistic glee, and the Federation Ambassador seemed quite at a loss for how to handle the entire situation. And as for the Breen delegate, well... Lange couldn't tell through the suit, but wouldn't be surprised if he or she were enjoying the matter even more than Legate Heketh seemed to be.

As the base commander, Lange had felt somewhat obligated to be on hand for at least the first day, though he would probably leave observing and moderating the discussions to Kenah for most of the duration. Right now, though, Lange was wishing he had a bit less of a sense of responsibility. Suppressing another sigh, Lange rapped his knuckles on the table, trying to get the attention of the various delegates. The Federation, Cardassian, and Klingon ambassadors looked his way, but the Romulans kept right on arguing and the others were too engrossed in that argument. Not bothering to stifle the sigh that arose this time, Lange picked up his coffee mug and tapped it against the table, hard and loud, until he had everyone's attention.

"Ambassadors," he said simply, with none of the diplomatic pleasantries that he probably should have been using, "I'd suggest a recess for the time being." He'd like to call an end to the days discussions, but since absolutely nothing had been discussed at all, that didn't seem like such a good idea. "Let's meet back here in one hour."

Without waiting for a response, Lange stood up and headed for the door. He stopped just outside the door and rubbed his temples again, trying to decide if he should replicate a painkiller or go to the infirmary for something stronger. Before he could decide, his commbadge chirped. "Security to Captain Lange. We have a... situation on the promenade, sir."

Swearing loudly in Andorian, Lange acknowledge the call and headed down the corridor. The headache would have to wait.

<Lange's Office, 1350>

Lange held up a hand to forestall any comment by either of the men entering his office. He took a quick drink from the mug of tea he'd just replicated and swallowed the painkillers. After a few more sips from the tea, he turned to face the two Romulans, both of them looking quite... well, aggravated was probably the best description. "Before you ask, the answer is no."

That startled both of the Romulans. Lange decided to press on before they could regain their wits. "Your officers engaged in a brawl on my Promenade. They will thus remain in my brig for the next 48 hours. So, unless you have anything else you want to discuss, you can leave. Now."

One of the Romulans opened his mouth to object, only to be interrupted by the red alert klaxon. Lange groaned and lowered his face into his palm After a moment, he gulped down the rest of his tea, set the empty mug on his desk, and walked out the door into Ops. "Report."

"Sir, Fighter Element Alpha is coming in hot and fast. We've been trying to raise them, but subspace transmissions are being jammed. They'll be within normal communications range within 45 seconds," the officer at the tactical station reported.

"Thank you, Ensign," Lange replied. He stepped down to the lower level and looked at the situation table. The ensign there quickly switched the table's display to a tactical plot of the Aldani system. Lange nodded to him and looked at the markers indicating the two fighters moving across the panel, nearing the dotted line that indicated sublight comm range.

Just as the fighters crossed into range, a fuzzy indicator appeared at the edge of the display. Lange frowned as he heard the Communications officer hailing the fighters. He only peripherally heard the conversation between the Comm officer and Commander Meyer as he pulled up sensor readings on the new sensor contact.

"Sir," Ensign Veryn said, breaking through Lange's concentration, "Elyshan fleet inbound! They've just entered the system and are slowing to sublight speed."

"ETA?" Lange asked, looking at the indicator on the situation table. New information was popping up and it started splitting into multiple contacts as more and more of the Elyshan ships became visible to the station's sensors.

"At full impulse they'll reach the defense perimeter in two hours, thirty-six minutes, Captain," the Tactical officer replied.

Lange didn't even have to think about his reaction. "Red Alert. All hands to battle stations. Get the civilians to combat shelters... and get as many of the children as possible down to the surface. Their parents too, if possible, but the children first."

As the Ops staff hurried to carry out his orders, Lange stared at the growing mass of indicators on the situation table. "Contact security. Let the Romulans go back to their ships. We're probably going to need their help."

The ensign sitting next to Lange at the table quickly sent the order through, then turned back to the captain. "And then what sir?"

"And then, Ensign," Lange said softly, "We wait."

OFF:

All characters other than Lange are NPCs.

_________________
Tony
AKA
Captain James Lange
Commanding Officer
Starbase 386

[Starbase 386 Crew]

ON: <Starbase 386, Lange's Office, Station Day 4, 1415>

A holographic version of the situation table display from Ops hovered over Lange's desk as he paced back and forth across the open space of the office. He still didn't quite think of it as is, only party due to the fact that he had yet to set out any personal effects. Of course, Lange thought, if today doesn't go well it will be a rather moot point.

As he paused to consider the display, Lange heard one of the side doors to his office hiss open. He didn't bother looking to see who it was. There were only a handful of people on the base that the computer would allow to enter this office without his explicit authorization, and only one of them would come through the side door without ringing the chime. "Can I help you, Admiral?"

Admiral Meyer looked around the office as he entered and noted the lack of decorations. That didn't surprise him, given the hectic nature of Lange's first three days in command. And then there was the small matter of the Elyshan Fleet closing on them. "I thought," the admiral said slowly, "that you might want to talk."

"Admiral, if this is a pep talk... or something about those damn Ambassadors, I'm really in no mood. I have 237 more immediate problems," Lange answered, gesturing at the tactical display. "I've never even seen an Elyshan ship before, much less had to fight a whole fleet of them."

"It is my hope that you won't have to fight these ones," Meyer replied. "However, at the moment I have to admit they do look committed to driving us out of this system, one way or the other."

"Meaning retreating, imprisoned, or dead," Lange said sourly. "I've been working the rough numbers, based on the intelligence we have on their weapons systems. If they stick to conventional weapons we can fight them to something approaching a stalemate with the help of the Ambassadors' ships and the few spaceworthy ships we have in the shipyard. But most of the scenarios I've worked out the station is either heavily damaged or destroyed altogether."

Meyer nodded. That matched his calculations. Still, Lange seemed very pessimistic about the whole affair.

Lange turned to face the admiral. "Admiral, if I may ask a candid question, why did you assign me here? My tactical ability is better suited to single ship and small fleet engagements, not holding a solid position. I have no experience with the Elyshans whatsoever, and I have no patience for diplomatic niceties. Why am I here?"

Meyer smiled. So that was the problem: the good captain was lacking in faith in his ability to command this station and keep it in one piece. So, how best to put this?

"James," Meyer began, deciding to take a less formal approach, "I have to admit that you're largely right. This assignment doesn't exactly fit your demonstrated abilities. However, you are the best person to sit in this office in the current situation."

Meyer held up a hand to forestall Lange's next comment. "Hear me out. You are a unique case in Starfleet. In the hundred and fifty years or so that the Merchant Marine service has existed, no Starfleet Officer drawn from those ranks has held command of anything more than a scout. Most don't even last past a single tour of duty. That's not because they're not capable officers, it's because they're too used to the unstructured life they lead on a freighter to adapt to Starfleet's structured environment."

Lange quirked an eyebrow. "So I adapt better to a structured environment than most of my peers?"

"Partly," Meyer answered. "If I were to describe you I would say you are a decent tactician for starship combat, an above average leader, and a man who has occasional trouble with his temper. But what makes you perfect for this base is that you have a far different background from every other CO in Starfleet. You're going to end up dealing with a lot of freighter crew and civilians, assuming we survive past today. You already know how to deal with these people, and since you share a common background with them, they may just accept what you tell them without thinking it's just another case of an officer who doesn't understand the circumstances they have to work under."

Lange thought about that for a moment. He had to admit that the admiral had a good point, but that still left one question. "That still doesn't tell me how the hell I'm going to deal with that fleet out there."

Meyer smiled again. "Tell me, Captain, do you play chess?"

"From time to time," Lange answered, giving Meyer a puzzled look. "Why? This is hardly the time to start a game."

"Chess is a complicated game, and a good teacher of the basics of tactical thinking," Meyer replied, looking at the holographic display hovering above Lange's desk. "Each piece has limited moves that it can make, and you have to protect your king at all costs. In real life, of course, the king doesn't necessarily need to survive to win a war, or even a battle. However, one thing that is true in both chess and real combat: You don't always have to defeat your oponent to win. Sometimes you just have to make him BELIEVE you can defeat him."

Lange gave the Admiral an inquisitive look. "You mean... ?"

Meyer nodded. "They're operational enough to move into combat positions... but the weapons systems still aren't quite cooperating with the new power cores."

Lange nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you, Admiral."

"Any time," Meyer replied as he headed towards the door he'd entered through.

Lange tapped his commbadge. "Commander Richardson, could you step into my office please? It's time to figure out our strategy."

OFF:

Admiral Antoine Meyer (PNPC)
Deputy Chief of Staff
Federation 8th Fleet

Tony
AKA
Captain James Lange
Commanding Officer
Starbase 386

[Steele]

ON: [[Research Lab 2, Starbase 386, Station Day 4, 1340]]

"Computer, access historical files pertaining to Romulan Imperial State," Charlie said, checking his request with the notes on one of three PADDs sitting at the workstation. Other than himself, the lab was pretty quiet. Most of the researchers usually tried to get lab 1 or lab 3 because of their proximity to the main archives, but Charlie found that he liked lab 2 the best. The layout was easy to work in and it was usually quiet, which made it easier to work without interruption.

A moment later, the information he had requested from the computer began to scroll across the screen. It wasn't much, considering the relatively short time that the Romulan Imperial State had been around, but any little bit of information helped. When Commander Richardson had asked Charlie to take on this little project, he hadn't been very specific as to what the young scientist should be looking for. All the Professor had said was that the information would be important to know for the Summit. Charlie had been surprised, considering that the Professor usually enjoyed researching such projects himself, but he knew enough not to question a request like that.

Not having too much else to do until the Orlando arrived, Aniela had put on her uniform and headed to the Starbase's Science Labs. Most of her time had been spent in civilian clothes in civilian areas, but she doubted that station security would be comfortable with someone dressed as a civilian wandering the station. Having consulted with the computer before leaving her temporary quarters, Aniela had chosen to seek out Lab 2 first - the others seemed to have several officers in them while Lab 2 only had one person. As she approached the lab, the door swished open and she stepped inside.

While it was still shore leave, Aaron couldn't help but take a self guided tour of the Station's science labs. After a few wrong turns, he found himself outside what was labeled as Science Lab 2 just as the doors closed. Taking this as a good sign, Aaron entered the lab. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything. After escorting the Romulans here for the summit, we were given a few days off so I decided to check out the science facilities here on the station."

Realizing an introduction was in order, Aaron continued. "Sorry, I'm Aaron Steele, Chief of Science on the Malinche."

Aniela turned as the doors opened again, surprised. She'd been about to introduce herself to the young man inside when the other man stepped in. Offering a smile as she turned to face both of them, she said, "And I'm Lieutenant Aniela Darvetti - soon to be the Chief Science Officer for the USS Orlando."

"Sir, ma'am," Charlie said, looking up from his workstation in surprise, he had not expected anyone to be visiting this lab, let alone non-station personnel. It wasn't that access was restricted, but visiting personnel usually made use of the more easily accessed labs, like Research Labs 1 and 3 as well as Science Labs 1 and 4. It was an unusual and unanticipated visit, to say the least. "If I had known I was going to be having company, I might have baked a loaf of Deruvian Spice Bread," the young science officer joked with a smile, "Ensign Charlie Young, Cultural and Research Specialist here on Starbase 386."

Smiling at the young Science officer, Aniela said, "Pleasure to meet you, Ensign. As Mr. Steele mentioned, I'm sorry if I'm interrupting... I was just hoping to look around at the base's Science facilities - I've already seen the Promenade and some of the other civilian areas, but haven't seen the Science areas for a Nor class before and thought I'd stop by."

"I suppose I could spare a few minutes, if you're looking for a tour guide," Charlie said, glancing between the two lieutenants. Sure, the project he was working on was important, but not so much so that he couldn't take a small break to show fellow scientists around the facilities. Besides, having spent the majority of his time since arriving helping the science department settle in, he was the best man for the job.

"It would be much appreciated, if you don't mind. I don't want to keep you from your work though," Aniela replied. She hated to impose on others and was perfectly capable of finding the Science facilities, but it would be nice to have company.

Charlie waved his hand dismissively. "No trouble at all," he assured the woman with a warm smile, "Besides, I can only think of one or two people on this station who know our facilities better than I do and I happen to know that they are quite busy at the moment."

"Well in that case, I guess I've come to the right place. Besides, a formal tour by some ranking officer usually doesn't cover as much as a impromptu one by a person who actually works there."
Aaron hadn't been expecting a tour but wasn't about to turn it down.

Giving a gentle smile, Aniela said, "Shall we start here? Or would you like to start somewhere else?"

"Here's fine," Charlie replied as he saved his progress. With a deft movement, he shut down the workstation so that he could return to it when they were finished. The young science officer got to his feet and turned so that he was facing his two guests. "Well, as you can see, this is one of our research labs," he began, "Research Lab 2, to be exact. The research labs are connected to the station's computer library and are used primarily for project research rather than actual experimentation. Those seeking some of our physical research resources can visit the research library, which is adjacent to Research Lab 1."

"Any interesting projects going on at the moment that you can tell us about." Aaron had been surprised when he discovered the number of projects that were restricted to a need to know basis.

"A lot of us are still settling in from our transfers," Charlie replied, trying to think of what was already going on when they arrived, "I think there are a few botany studies going on in Lab 6. Other than that, I think everyone has been pretty focused on setting things up."

Aniela nodded; it was probably quite a transition to go from a ship to a station. For that matter, it was possible that the station would have more advanced equipment than a starship, since starships didn't always have a chance to upgrade all their sytems - especially Science systems - when they stopped at a base. "What about new or interesting equipment?"

"Our library interface is state of the art," Charlie replied, considering the lieutenant's question, "and they were able to incorporate a lot of enhancements into the long range astrometric sensors, enabling us to get a good look at distant objects in space. We're hoping to use it to get a better idea of what's out there beyond the border."

"That must be amazing...I'd love to see that - Spatial anomalies are my specialty," Aniela replied, her eyes shining. She wondered how good the Orlando's sensors would be...if nothing else, perhaps she could get some form of upgrade or enhancement to them.

"I'm sure I can arrange a brief stop...as part of the tour," Charlie said, leading the way out of the research lab, "In fact..." He paused to glance down the corridor to his right, then to his left. One way was just as good as another, but if the lieutenant wanted to see one of the astrometric labs, then it would be quicker to go to the left. Charlie stepped out of the lab and turned so that he could motion down the corridor. "...right this way," he said.

Smiling, Aniela stepped out of the lab, pausing to wait for the Malinche's Science Chief before following Charlie. She was glad she'd decided to come investigate the Science labs; apparently she'd chosen the right one to start with too.

Aaron followed the other two scientists out of the lab as the tour got underway. While the Malinche had decent systems, a Starbase such as this one with the latest in equipment was certainly worth a look.

Charlie didn't mind the slight delay in his research. He could always make up the time later so that he'd be back on track. It wasn't every day that he got to show off the facilities to two fellow science officers, though something gave him the impression that this was normal for a starbase assignment, given the advantage that station facilities had over those of a starship. Remembering that he had two guests to be guiding, Charlie began to point out different labs and facilities as they passed, describing their purpose to the best of his knowledge.

OFF:

JP brought to you by:

Ensign Charlie Young (NPC)
Cultural and Research Specialist
Starbase 386
played by: Commander Richardson

and

Lieutenant Aniela Darvetti
Chief Science Officer
USS Orlando NCC-58068

and

[Kersare]

<<Starbase 386, Docking Bay, Day 3, 1445>>

The atmosphere on the starbase was much different than the one he had recently become accustomed to aboard the Destiny. It was much more lively with sounds of joy and children running about. Jake turned back to his ship. The Destiny had evidence of phaser and torpedo burns all across the outer hull. The lower section of the ship had a portion missing and the port nacelle had been leaking plasma. Jake knew it would fly once more.

Jake's stomach rumbled; he hadn't eaten in hours. He thought about grabbing a bite to eat first but decided to seek out the Malinche first.

He turned and searched the area for the dockmaster's mate. "Excuse me Sir, where is the USS Malinche docked?"

The dockmaster tapped at his console and gave Jake directions.

<<USS Malinche, Captain's Ready Room, 1515>>

The Malinche slightly smaller than the Destiny; Jake had downloaded schematics of the ship so he could find where he needed to be. He made his way to the Captain's Ready Room.

Jake tapped the pad near the door requesting permission to enter.

Looking up from the display in front of her, Isabel said, "Come in."

Jake stepped through the doors. The woman sitting at the desk was adorned in a red uniform and wore the insignia indicting the rank of Captain. Jake had also taken the time to look at a picture of Captain Kersare so he would recognize her. As prepared as he was, Jake was wearing a battered uniform and was in a general state of disarray, his hair a mess, eyes red from fatigue and tears.

"Ma'am, Lt. McCarty reporting as ordered. I must apologize in advance for my appearance. My trip home on the Destiny was a little rough," He handed Kersare the PADD.

Isabel's eyes moved over the young man in command red. Though she had not met him before, she recognized the name; his transfer was one of the few she'd actually been informed of in advance. "That's alright, Mr. McCarty. I'm guessing you already know that I'm Captain Kersare. Please, have a seat."

Jake swiveled the chair in front of the Captain's desk around and sat down. "Yes Ma'am; I take the liberty of looking into my new assignments before I take them so I don't look like a lost puppy when I first come aboard. One of the first things I check is the appearance of my new Commanding Officer so I can identify him or her."

Nodding, Isabel replied, "Not a bad idea. I do my homework as well... I was sorry to hear about your crewmates. Hopefully your time with us will be happier than your most recent mission on the Destiny."

Jake placed his head into his hands. Mentioning the Destiny brought the events of the past few weeks back. Images of burning bodies, screams, blood. Captain Conaway barking out orders, Anna holding a dying child in her arms. Jake sat up and looked Isabel straight in the eyes, tears streaming from his. "It would almost take an eternity in hell Ma'am."

Isabel watched him quietly. While StarFleet couldn't have known what would happen to the Destiny, the man before her was quite obviously in bad shape. She had to wonder if he was even fit for duty in his current condition. Isabel didn't like stirring up difficult things, but still, she didn't regret mentioning it - better to have him break down here rather than during a mission. Quietly, she said, "Mr. McCarty, I realize you've been through a traumatic event...I'm not sure what was available to you prior to coming here, but I would like you to stop by and see our Counselor and Chief Medical Officer before officially reporting for duty. I'll let them know to expect you."

Jake smiled once again. The anxiety he felt upon entering his new assignment had now gone away with the warm words from his Commanding Officer. However he was not here to be a charity case. The one thing that made him who he was today was not sulking in a chair in the presence of his CO, rather it was having the courage to put a bad situation behind him.

He wiped the tears from his eyes and straightened his uniform. "Ma'am, the Destiny was an extraordinary crew and I had every available resource I could imagine at my disposal, a medical staff who in the crew's most dire hour performed at a level one would think could only be read in legends. The ship's counselor, a remarkable woman with a heart second to none and the skillset to match, but quite frankly ma'am...What happened aboard the Destiny.....it's in the past now. I cannot change what happened nor can I change what will happen. My duty now is to this ship. Therefore my focus is on her and her crew. My job does not allow me the luxury of crying into a pillow everytime I encounter the Borg. I cannot decide to take a time out because I dont "feel" good."

Not wanting to interrupt, Isabel simply listened to her newest crewmember. While she agreed that the events on the Destiny were in the past and that Jake couldn't change what had happened, she also knew that it was impossible to simply ignore it no matter how hard one tried. The events wouldn't magically disappear, they'd be with him forever.

Jake paused. "Ma'am I may not know you very well but I can be certain of one thing. When the time comes for this ship to enter battle, you will expect nothing but the best from me, nothing short of getting this ship and this crew back in one piece will be tolerated and I promise you I will give you no less. Regardless, if it would put your mind at peace for me to visit the counselor and the doctor I would be happy to oblige."

Nodding, Isabel said, "I do expect the best from anyone on my crew, but I know that nobody is perfect. Besides all that, I'm sure Lieutenant Zeral and Lieutenant JG Dormand (NPC) would want to see you since you're a new crewmember here, regardless of what you went through. So, when you have a chance, please stop by and see them."

Jake nodded. "Understood Ma'am."

With that out of the way, Isabel felt a little better. "Given that your first assignment was to a Sovereign class starship, I'm guessing you've not worked with a Prometheus before. As I'm sure you're aware, however, we do have MVAM capability, which would require you to coordinate with two other Flight Control Officers. One of the first Flight Control personnel to be assigned here once I took command created some holodeck training simulations that you may wish to use on your own or with the others in the department."

Jake adjusted his uniform again. "You are quite correct ma'am, although I am aware of the capabilities of this ship I have never flew in MVAM." Jake was not fond of the idea of having to rely on 2 other pilots during combat, to him, any ship he served on was his responsibility to navigate. Should the other pilots not possess the skillsets or intuitiveness Jake believed he had, he would have to deal with the losses that ensued. He was also not fond of lacking complete control of a situation especially his own ship. He continued. "I will begin training right away once I am cleared for duty. Until then with your approval I shall go see Counselor Zeral."

"If you need anything, let me know. Welcome aboard Mr. McCarty," Isabel said. "You're welcome to introduce yourself to the others in Flight Control - I'm sure they'd be happy to train with you as well. Dismissed."

As he walked out of her ready room, Isabel watched the door a few moments before sending a message to Nora and Julie about the impending visits from Jake. Obviously StarFleet couldn't have known the trauma that Jake would experience before coming to the Malinche, but what he had experienced was troubling. She had a feeling that it would take quite awhile for Jake to recover from it and was rather concerned it would affect his performance. Isabel could admire his desire to continue on and do his best; she just hoped that he wouldn't be too overconfident. For the time being, she'd keep her eye on things.

OFF: JP brought to you by:

Lieutenant JG Jake McCarty
Assistant Chief Flight Control Officer
USS Malinche NCC-38997-A

and

[Orlando Crew]

[[USS Orlando, Station Day 3, 1800 hrs]]

R'Sera walked out of the turbolift and made her way to the Captain's office. The bridge was the usual bustle of activity, which she watched with curiosity as she waited for him to respond to the door chime.

Quinn looked up from his computer. He couldn't believe the lack of solid tactical information there was on the Elyshan Empire. It likely had to do with empire being so fractured by the factions. "Come." he called, hoping it wasn't more bad news.

"Sir, a couple things if I may?" She said in her soft tone. "I have not checked your status since the Q incident." She placed her furry hand on her tricorder.

Quinn gave a look of slight irritation, not at the doctor for doing her job, but for choosing now to do so. Standing, he nodded and came out from behind his desk so that the doctor could more easily scan him. "I'm not an eight year old any more, if that's what you're worried about." he said, somewhat jokingly.

Sensing his tension, she made the scan quickly and put it back on her belt. They sat down in their seats before she continued entering the data in her Padd.

Quinn, never one to like being out of the loop, peeked at the padd. "What's this?" he asked.

"Oh, right." She stammered a little. "I have been working on some medical research in relation to my home clan on Cait. I have reached a point where I need to get this information to the authorities that be, or they may have an impending wave of problems." She sighed, then continued. "The Clan won't welcome me back but I have to for their own good."

"So, I am guessing that's your way of requesting leave?" Quinn responded, not quite sure of how to respond to the caitian's statement.

She smiled. "Yes, Sir. In a sense." She paused and let him see it. "I am not sure if I ever told you that I was exiled from my clan for joining the fleet. If they manage to look over their little noses and see what my genetic research means..." She sighed. "...they may reverse that decision."

Quinn nodded, "They may... but then again they may not. What happens to you if they don't? I need my Chief Medical Officer."

"I don't want to neglect my post, Sir. This is my family first and my home. I would request when it fits."

"Well, it will have to be after we're done dealing with the Elyshans, *if* we get done with the Elyshans. I will see what I can do." Quinn responded, glancing at the map being displayed on his main computer monitor.

"Fortunately they are not generally violent, so the likely worse outcome will be an escort out of the territory. Best case is they hold a Council hearing and actually consider what I have to say." She looked at the map. "What do we know about these 'Elyshans', if I may. I still have a bit of catching up to do on my hostile species."

Quinn twisted the display so that R'Sera could see it better. "Unfortunately not much. They're a highly fractured society governed by the central 'Elyshan Guard.' There's no way to tell for sure, but I'd be willing to guess that the ships on their way to 386 are part of the Guard. In any event though, the guard and several of the larger factions use subspace weapons and shields."

She tilted her head. "Subspace? Aren't those kinda things like really risky? I'm no engineer but I do remember that much. What do we do if they do play dirty like that?"

Quinn shook his head. "There's nothing we *can* do, in all reality. From what I've got from the preliminary reports from Altorus is that tricobalt devices seem to have a strong impact on their shields, but most ships only carry a handful of them and there hasn't been any research into the implications of detonating several tricobalt devices in the same region. It could tear a hole in subspace itself."

The caitian muttered in a felinoid way. "There are times I miss the ignorance of the old order. To most of them a padd was high tech. All this stuff about subspace and impenetrable shields is enough to make my fur stand up. Is that so unusual, Sir?"

Quinn gave a very small laugh, in many ways things were a lot easier 'way back when' but there was something also to be said for the present. "Not at all, Doctor." he responded. "I myself often find myself drifting back to simpler days. I guess that's why Q chose to turn me into a child." Quinn shrugged, things were much more complicated than that and the clock was ticking.

She smiled weakly. "What was that like? To see your son through his eyes and him through yours. It seems intriguing." She asked with an earnest curiosity.

Quinn gave a look of indifference and shrugged. "It was what it was. I don't really have the time to analyze it. Perhaps after we're done with the Elyshans at 386."

She nodded. "Fair enough. I do not wish to interfere with your tasks." R'Sera stood up. "If you need me, do not hesitate to call, Sir."

Quinn nodded. "Thank you, R'Sera." he said, before looking back down to his padd showing reports on the Elyshans that they were likely to encounter once they arrived at Starbase 386.

OFF:

A Post by:

Rear Admiral Quinn Androski
CO, USS Orlando

&

Lt. Jg. Dr. R'sera Nieth
Chief Medical Officer
USS Orlando

[McCarty]

ON:<Station day 4, 09:00 hrs, Shuttle bay USS Malinche>

Jake had woke up late today due to his eventful day before. He had met the Captain and at her request went for a session with the ship's counselor. After that he found his way back onto the station and enjoyed a late night feast for one on the promenade. Coupled with the amount of food he ate and his lack of sleep over the past few weeks he must have fallen into a deep sleep. On this day Jake decided to relax and take a tour of the ship and the Starbase. After a breakfast on the promenade he decided there was no better place to start than the shuttle bay where he had spent most of his early years aboard Destiny.

A Caitian technician was laying semi-prone on top of the Type-9 shuttlecraft, reaching into a hatch. She was not visible from the ground other than an occasional flick of her tail.

Jake had not noticed her at first but as he walked by, her tail tapped him on his head.

Jake turned suddenly expecting someone to be standing before him. To his amazement he say no one behind him. He was about to write it off as another one of his hallucinations when the technician called him from atop the shuttle.

"Up here." She giggled.

Jake looked up stunned by the origin of the voice. He found her location rather odd as he had not yet determined how she had tapped him on the head. He looked around for a means to climb the shuttle and was able to find a stepladder nearby. He climbed up to get a closer look at the technician. When he approached the hatch, he was bewildered by what he saw. Never in his career had he run into a species like her. Although she had the obvious shape and curves of a humanoid woman. She also had fur lining her body and a tail that protruded from the back of her uniform. Jake moved in closer curious. He tapped her on the shoulder. "Hey stranger, my name is Jake McCarty who might you be?"

She looked at the human with a raised eyebrow and sat up, holding her hyperspanner. "Ensign L'Randil. Shuttle Specialist. Who might you be, flyboy?" She said in her usual direct way.

Jake couldn't help but laugh at her remarks despite his increased curiosity in her. He took quick mental notes of her facial features. he could see the humanoid shape in her jawline but the rest of her face resembled a feline. He also realized if he stared any longer curiosity would not kill the cat as it would be the cat doing the killing. "Flyboy? What makes you think I'm a pilot? For all you know I could be a doctor." he replied sarcastically.

She smirked. "I've been around a flight deck since I was old enough to pass a review, and I may only be twenty one, but I have had great many years already. You carry yourself like a pilot. You look like you've never seen a gal with a tail before." She remarked, purposely laying her tail on his hand.

Jake laughed once again. "That obvious is it?" He took his other hand and began to caress her tail. "It's so soft, like some sort of fleece." he smiled as he continued to rub her tail, eyes fixed on it as if he was in some sort of trance, amazed by the feel.

The attention felt a little odd but at the same time not all that bad. She smiled, after a while she broke the silence by asking, "So, flyboy, what do I owe the visit to?"

"I just figured I'd go for a tour of the station and my new ship today. No better place to start off than where everything began. I remember when I was fresh out of the academy I was placed in the shuttlebay on my old ship. It where I learned most of what I know today."

Suddenly another blinding flash. Jake found himself in the shuttlebay on Destiny. Jake looked around. "This isn't right...." he said to himself. Everyone around him seemed to be in a rush to depart the ship. Personnel around him were busy loading cargo onto the shuttles. He felt a tap on his shoulders. Jake spun around to see Lt. Johnson smiling at him. He looked at her confused. "Impossible....." He thought to himself going back into his memories of his final weeks on Destiny. He remembered running to the shuttlebay after the attack by the borg only to find her dead body underneath a large pile of damaged bulkheads. He could see himself reaching in to touch her hand for one last time. Cold....like the ever-lasting expanse of the space that surrounded him.

Lt. Johnson put her hands to her hips. "C'mon dreamer, its time to go let's do this!" she said excitedly.

The only response Jake could muster was her name. "Sabrina." He whispered.

Suddenly he found himself back on the Mali with the young shuttle technician giving him a strange look.

She looked at him at first surprised, then knowing the expression.

"Flash-backing?" She asked softly. "I get them too sometimes."

"Huh?.." he replied not having comprehended what she said. He took a moment to catch up
than smiled. "Yeah...that was a long time ago though...I haven't flown a shuttle in quite some time." Both of them paused for a moment before Jake continued. "How about you? You spend all day fixing these things, ever taken one out for a trip?"

L'Randil smirked, reaching into the hatch for a part, then coming out. "Sometimes." She looked around the bay. "Usually when some flyboy officer comes by or I need to do a check ride. As fun as it is to feel G's, I like watching my kids go and return."

Jake sighed. "Why would I get a shuttle technician to do a test run for me? I didn't sign up to watch other people fly circles around me. I joined for the thrill of the new discovery, the split second decision. The gratifying feeling you get after a job well done, nothing in Starfleet can compare besides a command. As for the kids, not my cup of tea, I'd rather be feeling the G's."

She nodded. "To each their own. A technician generally likes supporting those who like to go." She paused, then smirked at him. "Assuming you don't blow it up or bang it up. Some pilots don't appreciate how much work it takes to keep these things going. What was that flashback about, anyways?"

Jake chuckled at her remarks. "I generally am not concerned if I cause a few scratches on a craft. My general concern is for the safety of the crew aboard the craft as they are much harder to mend and not replaceable. So long as you ensure I have a craft fit for flight I would be more than happy to assist you in anyways possible." The joyful look on his face faded. "As for the flashback, it was nothing no worries. Just some old memories..."

She noted the change of emotion and tilted her ears down slightly. "I didn't mean to pry. We all have our sordid pasts. Mine was before the fleet. Compared to the mining company, this is a safe zone. It still haunts me sometimes, though." She leaned up a bit more and pointed. "Could you hand me that panel?"

Jake grabbed the panel and handed it to her. He placed his hand on her shoulder. "It's fine don't worry. I just don't believe in dwelling in the past, I always look forward. You gotta keep your chin up high for in times of desperation and need there will be those who are unable to summon the strength to hold their heads up high and will be looking to us for courage. In my opinion it is one of our responsibilities as officers of Starfleet." He paused. "Now what's this about a mining company?"

L'Randil wasn't used to someone touching her and looked at his hand. "Um, yeah." She paused. "I used to maintain mine shuttles in the Cait system. Dilithium was a strong industry there. They turned on me after a job site accident, so I just decided it was time for a nicer career. These things don't pay as much but fleet regulations, annoying as they can be sometimes, don't risk one's safety just for the sake of the next bonus goal." She made a face, then continued. "Dilithium shuttles are so dirty too."

Jake noted she got a little uncomfortable when he handed her the panel. He guessed she probably wasn't the touchy-feely type. "You never struck me as the kind of girl who was worried about getting her hands dirty. Dilithium mines...doesn't sound like a very good experience. I don't think I could ever do something like that, being a pawn for some corporation. I am glad you decided to join Starfleet you seem like a good....um person."

She smiled. "Thank you." She replied, then paused. "It was a job for a rough around the edges teenager. I'm still a bit rough around the edges, but I think I'm getting better about that, eh flyboy?" She ribbed.

Jake laughed. "Yes, it seems like you've done a lot better for yourself." Jake could see L'Randil was uncomfortable with the subject so he promptly changed it. "Hey, have you ever been to the bridge yet? Tell me you don't stay couped up here all day?"

The caitian laughed. "Not always, but most of this ship is unexplored territory to me. The bay is home to me. Perhaps you could show me sometime. An ensign like me can't just stroll onto the bridge without an escort or reason." She stared off the edge of the shuttle and leaned back on her hands. "Holodeck, that is a place I go often."

Jake placed his hand on L'randil's shoulder. "Well then I guess I'll have to take you for a tour one day. Everyone aboard should have at least one chance to see the Main Bridge. I am sure Captain Kersare wouldn't mind. Whenever you feel like exploring come find me." He removed his hand and sat down on the shuttle. "So? What kind of programs do you run on the holodeck? I usually go for rock climbing, spelunking, even the occasional camping trip."

She thought a moment, raising an eyebrow at the contact but not frowning this time. "I like action stories. No heights. Heights scare me since the accident. Camping is a novel thing, since the colony was pretty desolate. Most of my life was in the titanium world of a ship." She looked across the bay to see Cmdr Peters walking through, so she slid off the craft to her tool cart. Then she turned and smiled at McCarty. "If you will excuse me, Jake, I have some duties to attend to."

Jake got up and walked over to the stepladder and climbed down the shuttle. "Very well than I look forward to talking to you again and maybe I'll even take you for a ride in one of these things, show you how to really fly one!"

N'rass chuckled as she pushed her tool cart to the next craft.

OFF: This has been a Joint Post by:

Ensign L'Randil N'rass
Shuttle Maintenance Specialist
USS Malinche NCC-38997-A

and

[Masterson]

ON: [[Holodeck 2, USS Malinche, Day 4, 1400]]

Aaron glanced at the PADD in his hand, then at the six individuals standing before him. He didn't want to have to repeat himself more than once, but it also wouldn't be the best policy to let the latecomers dictate how he was going to run his department. True, the final two still had three minutes according to the ship's chronometer, but even that was cutting it a bit close. If it were him, he would have made sure to arrive early.

Standing quietly slightly apart from the others, Derek (PNPC) kept his eyes either on Aaron or at a spot slightly to the right of him. Some of the others didn't seem bothered by his presence, but a couple did and he didn't want to unnerve them. Derek had to admit to being a little nervous himself; it'd been awhile since he'd gone to a department meeting. The last time he had, it was he who was leading it.

The seconds ticked by and Aaron was just beginning to wonder if he should just start and worry about bringing the others up to speed later when the doors to the holodeck slid open. When Aaron saw who it was, he almost let out an audible sigh. "Mr. Kepler (NPC), glad to see that you could join us," Aaron said, watching Mike take position near the others.

"Sorry, sir," Mike replied, "I...er...was delayed."

Derek watched the exchange with mild interest. This...Kepler, seemed to be fairly young - probably fresh out of Academy. In any event, he was definitely new to the Malinche. Derek would have thought the young man would want to make a good impression and arrive somewhat early, but at least he had arrived slightly before the scheduled time.

Aaron did not reply, but instead glanced at his PADD again to go over the order of events one more time. He hoped such timing would not become a regular habit for Mike, but he didn't want to seem as if he was playing favorites either. The door opened again and he looked up to see the formidable Klingon member of the security department, Warrant Officer K'Vora (NPC), enter the room.

"Well, now that we are all present, I think we can get started," Aaron began, "For those of you who do not know, I am Lieutenant JG Aaron Masterson, the new Chief Security/Tactical Officer aboard the Malinche. I am hoping to get to know each of you as we go on, but some things might change around here. By the time we're through, it's my intent that we will be able to work together as one department, a blend of tradition and new ideas."

So far, so good. Based on what he'd heard thus far, Derek felt that his thoughts on the young Chief had likely been accurate. He was a good speaker and certainly had a direction. Hopefully the others would be willing to listen.

K'Vora listened closely to the new Chief Security/Tactical Officer. To her, he seemed young for the position. And she would much rather get right into the training than listen to a speech, but she couldn't do anything about that. The Klingon hoped the terran would move things along.

"I've been reviewing the personnel records and, given that it will be a few days before we depart the station, I felt this would be a good time to go through a few team training exercises," Aaron continued, "As a security officer, you need to have the ingenuity to be able to work independently as well as the communication to work as a team. Hopefully, these exercise will help to give us an idea where we stand on both accounts."

Nodding in approval, Sirak (NPC) stood quietly. It had been a wise idea to review the personnel records, especially since he was new. And, though not surprising, it was also good to run through training exercises. Thus far, she was impressed with the young man.

K'Vora looked over at the man standing off to the side - Derek. She was unsure if she could trust him - he had been part of the Borg, after all. The Klingon was partly angered that he had been allowed to join them.

Having the feeling someone was watching him, Derek looked over and noticed the Klingon woman glaring in his direction. Apparently she was one who felt he didn't belong. Perhaps once they saw him during the training that Aaron had planned, they would change their minds. Derek couldn't blame them really; if their roles were reversed, he wouldn't be inclined to trust a former Borg either.

"...three scenarios programmed at random," Aaron was explaining, trying to keep it brief, "I won't bore you with details, but I can assure you that it will not be easy. Each one of these simulations is meant to test your ability to assess a situation and to be proactive in responding to it. Any questions?" He glanced at each of the members of the team assembled before him, waiting to see if any of them spoke up.

"Who will the team leaders be?" K'Vora queried, looking directly at Aaron. Perhaps he wanted them to just go in as a 'team' and work it out, but inevitably, there had to be someone in charge - to make the final call. The Klingon also doubted that this new Chief would be going in as the leader, since he would want to assess them. But, perhaps, if they went in as a single team he would lead them.

"We'll be running the first one in two teams," Aaron replied, glancing at his PADD, "and the team leaders will be...Warrant Officer K'Vora and...Mr. Greyman." Looking up from the PADD, Aaron focused his attention on Derek. It wasn't that he wanted to single the man out, but having reviewed the profiles of the personnel present, his experience prior to his assimilation made him an excellent candidate to lead a team.

Derek tilted his slightly, that was something he had not expected. True, of all the officers he had the most prior experience and had formerly been Chief Security/Tactical Officer...but that was before being assimilated and he had just returned. Part of him wanted to decline and Derek breathed deeply, trying to decide what to do. However, if he did well, it could help prove to the others that he could do the job.

Sirak glanced over at Derek, then at K'Vora. Given the terran's previous experience it only made sense for him to be one of the team leaders...and based on the looks K'Vora had been giving the former Borg, it would be unwise to have them on the same team. At least until the terran proved himself in the Klingon's eyes.

Digesting what Aaron had said, K'Vora was at first pleased that she was one of the team leaders. Hearing Derek's name, however, came as a shock. How could this new Chief put the ex-Borg in a position of authority? It didn't make sense. Her eyes slid over to Derek, giving him an icy stare before turning her eyes forward and focusing on anything but him.

Noting the glare from the Klingon, Derek decided it would be better to show the others that he was capable of being a member of the department. He had been training, after all; hopefully he wouldn't be too rusty. Derek gave Aaron a brief nod.

OFF

A JP by

Ensign Mike Kepler (NPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Lt. JG Masterson

Ensign Sirak (NPC)
Security Investigations Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

Warrant Officer 2nd Class K’Vora (NPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

Derek Greyman (PNPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

And

[Masterson]

ON: [[Holodeck 2, USS Malinche, Day 4, 1412]]

It took only a brief moment for Aaron to call off the team assignments. "Alright folks, let's get this show on the road," Aaron said, looking between the two teams and their leaders, "This first assignment is one that you may encounter aboard ship, your standard intruder scenario. Don't forget that you cannot take things for granted. You need to assess the situation and come up with a proactive solution before the intruders are able to gain control of the ship or the vessel is destroyed."

The first assignment sounded simple enough to Mike. He'd done at least a hundred of these training programs at the Academy. It wouldn't have surprised him if they were to complete the scenario before the expected conclusion. Glancing at his teammates, Mike could help but feel excited to be working with fellow members of the security department for the first time.

K'Vora was not concerned about this first scenario. It was something they would routinely train for anyway. Besides, she had competent officers to work with and, even better, she didn't have to work with Derek. Perhaps he would be able to prove his honor to her, but she wasn't certain. The Klingon glanced back at her team, who nodded to her.

As Derek looked over those on his team, it seemed that he was in part at a disadvantage. He had the newest member of the department on his team and neither he nor Mike had ever worked with the others. The exercise was not likely to go completely smoothly but he would do his best regardless.

"Computer, run program Delta-Phi-2, delayed start, two minutes," Aaron ordered. The grid around them shimmered until it was replaced by one of the Malinche's interior corridors. For now, the corridor was deserted, illuminated by the glow of the red alert klaxons, but otherwise silent. "You have two minutes to prepare yourselves for the first scenario," he told the two teams, "remember...all intruders must be neutralized."

As the red alert sounded, K'Vora looked at her team and nodded. They'd worked together enough to know how they would approach it. The Klingon said, "I'll take point, Sirak will bring up the back. Standard four person sweep delta."

Derek glanced over at the other team, then back at his. It'd been awhile since he'd given any kind of orders. "Alright, I will take point.... Morris (NPC) and Destor (NPC) will come next and Kepler will be in the back. Standard hand signalling and we remain silent until we engage the intruders." Not knowing the standard formations and sweep patterns in place, Derek thought it would be better to just signal each other. Hopefully things would go well - he was a bit leery of taking point, but also felt the need to show some leadership.

Without a word, Mike fell into step at the rear of the group, drawing his phaser from its holster and already beginning to scan the dimly lit corridor for any signs of intruders, even though the simulation had not yet begun. He'd heard a little bit about Greyman having been recently liberated from the Collective, but if Aaron was willing to trust him to lead a team, Mike wasn't going to argue.

Aaron watched as the teams diverged, each heading in an opposite direction down the corridor. A quick glance at his PADD told him that there was still roughly seventy seconds before the scenario would officially begin. He was looking forward to seeing how the two teams would approach the situation and whether or not they would attempt to handle things on their own. The Klingon, K'Vora, didn't seem too fond of Derek and Aaron had been aware that they would encounter some resistance to Derek's presence in the department, no pun intended. It was something that they would have to get past and this training exercise was the first step.

Derek moved forward, feeling rather than checking to see that his team was behind him. As they headed for Engineering, he paused every so often to give signals and change up their formation. Before going into an actual engagement with the intruders, he wanted to ensure they had at least a little bit of time to get used to working as a group. Trying to keep track in his head, Derek estimated that they had only seconds now until the training officially began.

Knowing the bridge would likely be a main target for intruders, K'Vora quickly led her team in that direction. True, it wasn't as large an area as Engineering, but vital functions were there - it was an important place to protect. Besides, they'd have the bridge cleared soon enough that they would likely have enough time to check on Sickbay and arrive to help clean up the stragglers in Engineering. She smiled confidently.

Following closely behind the team, Mike knew that things could start at any moment. They hadn't been given much information as to who or what they would be up against, so he kept his eyes peeled for anything out of the ordinary. So far, things seemed to be going well, considering that they had already used up their two minute preparatory period. He felt comfortable following Greyman, but he wondered how the other team was doing and whether they had encountered anyone or anything yet.

OFF

A JP by

Ensign Mike Kepler (NPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Lt. JG Masterson

Warrant Officer 2nd Class K’Vora (NPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

Derek Greyman (PNPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

And

[Starbase 386 Crew]

<<Starbase 386>>
<En route to Chief Engineer's Office, 1645, Day 3>

Quinn wasn't really sure why he was doing this, although it might have something to do with the fact that Jake had managed to get under his skin. For someone that was thousands of light years away he was awful good at making sure Quinn did what he wanted. Then again, Jake was always good at figuring people out. Quinn suspected that was the reason that he was so good at his job.

He drummed the PADD against his leg as he made his way through the twisting corridors of 386. He made a copy of the photonic readings that Jake had sent him; they weren't making much sense to him but maybe Chief Nira would have better luck. And there was also the fact that he wanted to point out that her power conversion rate was a tad low, something that he had tweaked to almost perfection on his last posting.

<Chief Engineer's Office>

Quinn tapped the key.

A bit surprised at hearing the doorchime, Kilana said, "Come in." She'd been in her office awhile now, catching up on the Shipyard reports that Mikaela (PNPC) had sent her.

He stepped inside, noting that the chief appeared to be engrossed in reading a different PADD.

Hearing the door open, then close, Kilana put the PADD down a few moments later and looked to see who had come. She resisted the urge to raise an eyebrow as she saw Quinn.

"Look," Quinn stated, holding his hands up. "I was an ass earlier, alright. I shouldn't have been so rude...not gonna lie and say that I get along with everyone all the time but you were only being friendly."

Kilana refrained from commenting on his apparent epiphany. Instead, she replied, "I wouldn't expect anyone to get along with everyone all the time. But I appreciate the...apology." She wasn't entirely sure that it was an actual apology, but Kilana figured it was as close as he would come.

Quinn sighed, he was glad that she wasn't going to make him apologize any further. He figured that she knew this was as good as it was going to get and he was just happy that he hadn't insulted her since he had come down here.

"I have a friend, please no comment on the matter," Quinn stated. "He's with Starfleet NCIS, they found some weird sort of photonic readings at the site of murder they are investigating, they couldn't come up with anything and frankly I am at a loss so far too. I thought that maybe you could have a look."

Raising an eyebrow, Kilana was a bit surprised that he had come to her for help. Although it did partly explain his attempt at an apology. "Yes, I could probably do that."

Quinn hoped that his peace offering wasn't that transparent, although even if it was at least he was making a peace offering. "I thought it might be some sort of weapon at first," Quinn stated, handing Kilana the PADD. "But the harmonics are all off from any known weapon, I checked already."

Kilana took the PADD, frowning, and accessed it. Likely she would need more time to look into it, but her eyes scanned over the basic information regardless. The harmonics did seem odd and the phase variant added another complexity.

"Oh and another thing, I did some rechecking; you could get your power conversion rate up to 99.98% if you re-routed secondary plasma flow through the back up EPS grid, you'd need to install some additional buffers but it should do the trick," Quinn explained, he was doing his best not to come off sounding as arrogant but wasn't sure it was having the desired affect.

"I'll look into it," Kilana said. Rather than calling him out on intruding in her area of expertise, she decided to not comment on that aspect of it. He was, in his own way, attempting to be helpful...even if he did lack some tact. "I hadn't quite gotten around to it yet since I've only been aboard a few days, but I'll add it to my list."

"Just a suggestion," Quinn stated, shrugging his shoulders.

Kilana nodded. Attempting to be conversational, she asked, "Have you gotten settled in alright?"

"Eh, I guess you could say that I am settling in ok. I am still not used to not being on a starship plus the way that they designed some of these interface systems is completely backasswards to me."

"I have a feeling that if you asked someone from many years ago what they think of even our current ships, they'd think the same things. Plus, this starbase was originally built by the Cardassians, which would account for that," the engineer said.

Quinn nodded at that comment; he was used to starship systems not the ones that he seemed to be encountering on 386. He had looked out the window on the way down and had seen the fleet of ships outside, he hadn't made it up to operations yet but that was his next stop.

"Anything else I can do for you, Mr. Scott?" Kilana looked at the man; he was certainly trying, which was more than she could say for him before.

"No," Quinn stated. "Just let me know if you find anything that I might have missed...I mean please let me know if you find anything."

A bit surprised at the added 'please', Kilana simply nodded, "Of course. Have a good day, Lieutenant." The half-Bajoran gave him a friendly smile; perhaps it was a good start at least - they may not end up best of friends, but she'd settle for cordial and pleasant exchanges.

OFF:

JP brought to you by:

Lieutenant JG Quinn Scott
Chief Operations Officer
Starbase 386

and

Warrant Officer First Class Kilana Nira
Chief Engineering Officer
Starbase 386

[Barrett]

<<Starbase 386>>
<Promenade, 1400, Day 4>

Adam took a deep breath, trying not to imagine Joey's right hook connecting with his face if he ever figured out that he had gone to talk to Jeremy. Then again, this was something that Adam felt like he had to do...something that he needed to do to finally gain closure after all these years. Adam found Jeremy easily enough, sitting at one of the tables that looked out into space.

"You're looking well."

Jeremy looked up, slightly confused until it registered who it was that was talking to him. He looked shocked and then smiled, standing and offering his hand.

"Adam, what the hell are you doing here?" Jeremy asked, gesturing to the empty seat.

"Medical Officer," Adam stated, indicating his pips. "And I could ask the same thing about you?"

"Not doing what you think I am doing," Jeremy responded. "And you seemed to have filled out even more."

Adam blushed slightly; he had always hated it when others commented on his body...even when Jason did it.

"And you still have the cute blush," Jeremy smiled.

"What are you doing here?" Adam asked, jumping right to the point. He didn't see any reason for beating around the bush, it wasn't something that he was good at.

"Working," Jeremy stated, indicating his PADD.

"Working? Selling more illegal drugs?" Adam asked, the comment came out harsher then he had intended.

"I told you that's all in the past," Jeremy sighed. "I'm head of R&D for Imperious. Look, I never got the chance to say that I was sorry for the way that things happened...for how things ended between us."

Adam fought back the urge to reach across the table and punch Jeremy in the face; he spent a month the critical care unit and all that Jeremy had to say was that he was sorry. Anger swelled up inside him and he had to calm himself down before he did something that he would regret. When he spoke he did his best to keep his voice calm.

"You're sorry? That's all that you have to say? You're sorry...I almost died! I spent a month in critical care and then another three putting my life back together!" Adam snapped. "You weren't there, if it wasn't for Joey I might not have pulled through."

"I know," Jeremy said, looking away from Adam and swallowing hard. "I wanted to tell you the whole time we were dating...I wanted to get out and I was going to. That was supposed to be my last job and then it was over."

"Why?"

"Why what?" Jeremy asked. "I never had a choice, I had been running for the cartel since I was 12 years old...it was the family business. But when I met you all that changed...you made me want to be a better person...I wanted to get away from that life and spend the rest of mine with you."

"You lost that chance," Adam stated, his voice wavering. Talking to Jeremy again was bringing back a whole flood of emotions that he really thought that he had buried a long time ago.

"I know," Jeremy responded softly. "And I hear that someone else has that chance, your XO Jason Barrett."

Adam didn't even ask how Jeremy knew that.

"Do you love him?" Jeremy asked.

"Not that its any of your business but yes, I do love him."

"And he loves you?" Jeremy asked.

Adam nodded, although he didn't know why he was telling Jeremy all this. He always had been good at getting information out of him; Jeremy could read Adam like a book. It was something that he used to his advantage time and time again in their relationship.

"Good," Jeremy said, standing up. "It was nice to see you again Adam, it really was. And for what its worth I am sorry for what happened."

With that said, Jeremy moved off leaving Adam sitting there alone with his thoughts.

OFF:

Adam Townsen
Medical Officer
USS Malinche
Played by:

[N'rass]

<Starbase 386, Promenade, Station day 4 1200>

Ensign L'Randil walked along the promenade of the station, hands behind her back, watching the people bustling about. It was a stretch for the technician to spend time in a crowded area, but she figured she may as well try. Occasionally someone would give the caitian an odd look for her tail and ears. No matter how prolific caitians were in the federation she still felt a minority or oddity in that environment. As nervy and blunt as she was in her bay, she felt self conscious and nervous in the crowd of humanoids.

Eventually she came to a quiet restaurant where she could sit down in a corner and relax. She dialed a menu padd and waited for a server to bring it out. One of the redeeming qualities of making the trip into the promenade was the un-replicated food. To the carnivore natural meat was a heavenly pleasure.

She flicked her tail impatiently until the food arrived. The server was a small ferengi. He set the tray down and stepped back.

"You seem a little tense, my dear. Are you from the Malinche?" He asked.

"Um, Yes." She replied, refocusing her eyes on him.

"Can I interest you in Root Cider? I know caitian's often prefer it, what few I see around here that is."

"No, thank you. I am on call." She stated. In fact she was on leave, but she still was such a workaholic that she wouldn't let it go.

"Very well." The ferengi replied. "Don't forget we have a very up to date holosuite and there is a discount for Starfleet personnel. I would imagine a young lady like yourself might go for a holo novel or romance."

L'Randil smirked. "I will have to keep that in mind. Not that I have ever tried such programs." She was trying to keep from laughing at the offer for a romance novel, but at the same time the more that she thought about it the more it seemed interesting. It was hard however to find anyone who gave a caitian option in such programs, which reduced the appeal to a degree.

The meat was good enough that she took her time eating it before returning to her den of the shuttle bay. The last of the type 9 shuttle refits was almost complete and she couldn't leave it for later in her compulsive mindset.

[Starbase 386 Crew]

ON: <Starbase 386, Lange's Office, Station Day 4, 1423>

Lange had just taken his seat and switched the holographic display above his desk to a view of the space within Starbase 386's defensive perimeter when the door hissed open and Richardson entered. "Doc," Lange greeted, "We have a bit of a mismatch on our hands, it would seem."

"Indeed," the elder officer replied, surveying the display grimly. He had seen Thomas (NPC) at the command table as he passed through Ops. No doubt there were many aboard the station who feared that they may not survive. It was difficult not to feel some sense of despair in such a situation, but Arthur wasn't willing to give up just yet. "However...just because something seems certain does not guarantee the outcome," Arthur said, watching the captain.

"Oh, I was never one for worrying too much about odds. When you're flying a freighter that's older than your father you can't afford to." Lange shrugged. "I've got a couple of bluffs that might deter them, and if that doesn't work we have enough firepower to take more than half of their fleet down with us, impenetrable shields or no. But I'd just as soon figure out a way to win this before it turns into a firestorm."

"I'm sure a great many of those aboard the station would agree with you, captain," Arthur said, continuing to assess the display. Compared to the number of Elyshan vessels reported to be inbound, the forces at Starbase 386 were minimal. Even with the available ships in the yards, it was clear that the numerical advantage was in the Elyshans' favor. Numbers do not win a battle, he thought to himself. The captain was right. Their best solution would be the one that did not require a single shot to be fired.

Lange keyed in a command and a new group of markers appeared orbiting Aldani 4. "These are our ace in the hole. The orbital thrusters are working, but the weapons systems are not yet adapted to work with the new power generators that Admiral Manley's crews installed a few months ago."

"A bluff," Arthur observed, eyes scanning the information the captain had brought up, "The question is, will they take it?"

"That depends on how well we sell it," Lange replied with a shrug. "I'm going to be talking to Kilana about that once we're done here. The real question is, how do we maximize our chances of survival if it does come to a fight?"

Arthur frowned slightly, considering the query. In his experience, he'd learned that the peaceful solution was often the best one. That experience also taught him that there were times when diplomacy was not an option. The approaching Elyshan fleet did not appear to be a sign of peaceful intent, especially considering the recent events of Altorus. There were times when one was forced to defend themselves through force and it looked like this was very close to becoming one of those times. "We know that their subspace weapons give them a tactical advantage, but that the subspace shields of the smaller vessels are susceptible to tri-cobalt devices," Arthur commented, "They know that we are aware of this weakness, though they likely have not had time to work out a possible defense."

Lange nodded thoughtfully. "Obviously we have a huge number of weapons on this base, but we can only point some of them in certain directions and the base can only rotate so fast. Then there's the question of whether we concentrate on a few targets at a time, or shoot at anything that comes in range and hope to scare them off."

"We have a limited number of vessels present that would be able to participate in the defense of the system, should it come to a direct conflict," Arthur pointed out, "but without reinforcements, we must consider the possibility that the Elyshans may prove victorious." Granted, defeat was not a pleasant thought, but it was something that must be considered whenever entering into an engagement. The starbase was home to a large population of non-Starfleet personnel, including civilians and families, that would be put in danger by the threat of conflict. As a scientist, Arthur had learned to account for all possibilities.

Lange nodded. "I've already ordered all children evacuated, and as many of the rest of the civilians as possible. Unfortunately, it takes a while to move seven thousand people. If the station is lost, they'll at least be on a planet where they'll have a chance at surviving long enough for Starfleet to send forces to retake the system."

One of the first things the Elyshans had done upon approach was to jam all incoming and outgoing communications. It was a standard siege tactic, one that had been used across the ages. Starbase 386 was isolated and alone with no way to call for assistance. It was unlikely that Starfleet Command would hear of the engagement until it was too late. They were on their own. Arthur knew that the next few hours would be crucial to determining how this whole thing would play out and it was important that they had a few plans in their hand, just in case.

"Of course," Lange continued, "At the moment we're deaf, dumb, and blind and have no idea what's going on outside this system. The only positive aspect of this situation is that this base sees too much traffic for total silence to go unnoticed for long."

Turning, Arthur approached the large viewport that took up one wall of the captain's office. He watched as another transport set off for the surface of the planet below, carrying civilians to what was hoped to be a much safer location than the station. Already, a number of the starships that had completed or nearly completed their repairs from the conflict at Altorus were emerging from their docking slips and taking up a defensive position around the station. The Tethys and the Marconi were readily identifiable, as well as a number of the delegation starships. Even the Scimitar-class warbird, which had caused such a stir upon its arrival, now appeared a welcome ally in the defense of the system.

"We must decide what to do with the time we have," Arthur said, turning back toward Captain Lange, "With your permission, I shall prepare the Peacekeeper for launch. When the Elyshans do arrive, we will be ready for them."

Lange was about to reply when the door chime sounded. He looked towards the door and saw a woman in a sciences uniform standing outside. He didn't recognize her, but assumed she had something important to bring to his attention. "Come in."

The butterflies in her stomach had been building on her way to the Ops Center, though Aniela did her best to ignore them. Her normally shy, reserved nature was fighting her and she was nervous at the thought of interrupting the base's Commanding Officer at such a crucial time. Still, he invited her in and she tentatively stepped into his office. "I'm sorry to disturb you, sir, I know you must be rather busy... I'm Lieutenant Aniela Darvetti - assigned to the USS Orlando as Chief Science Officer."

Lange nodded. That would explain why he didn't recognize her. He certainly didn't know everyone on the base yet, but he could recognize, by sight at least, all of the officers that had been on the Peacekeeper and/or Sentinel with him. "What can I do for you, Lieutenant?"

"I heard the red alert and have learned of the incoming Elyshan Fleet. With the Orlando still en route, I was wondering if there is anything I can do to help out," Aniela explained. "I also have two others who are to join the Orlando's Science Department, if you should need them."

Lange looked towards Richardson and quirked an eyebrow. It didn't surprise him that transient officers wanted to help out, but he hadn't thought of the matter before now. "Doc, do you think you could use some help on the Peacekeeper? Or any of the other visiting officers we have here? That might solve some of our staffing issues for the ships we're going to have to pull out of dock."

"Any offer to assist is more than welcome," Arthur replied with a grim smile in Darvetti's direction, "After all, we are in this together."

Aniela nodded, "My thoughts exactly, sir. I'm glad to help out in whatever way I can." They didn't seem to be upset at her intrusion, though the mood was still tense. She expected no less, considering the circumstances. In any event, she didn't want to just sit around or get sent to the planet when she was perfectly capable of helping.

Lange picked up a PADD from his desk and looked at it. After a moment he set that PADD down and picked up another one. With a nod he wiped the contents and began tapping in a series of commands. "You said your name was Aniela Darvetti, Lieutenant?"

"Yes sir," she replied simply. Her eyes followed his movements as he picked up the second PADD.

Nodding, Lange tapped in a few more commands on the PADD and then held it out to her. "I've issued you security access to the Peacekeeper for the next 48 hours as Acting Chief Science Officer. You'll need to register your authorization codes with the computer when you get aboard, but your access to the ship's systems will be ready and waiting for you when you get there."

Aniela took the PADD he'd offered her, "Thank you, sir. I'll register them as soon as am aboard." Her fingers clutched the PADD as she paused and asked, "Where is the Peacekeeper docked, sir? And who should I report to?"

Arthur gave a slight cough and a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "You'll be reporting to me, lieutenant," he said with a straight face, "and I was just about to head there myself, with the captain's permission." He glanced toward Captain Lange to see if they were through with the briefing. There were still many things that had to be done before the Elyshans arrived and so little time in which to do them. It wouldn't be long before they were facing a true test of their own capabilities and, grim as the outlook may have appeared, Arthur knew that there was no way to avoid this challenge. The only thing to do was to embrace it and to give the very best that they could. He had expected it from every one of his students, of those serving under him, and of himself.

Lange nodded. He had a lot on his mind and even more that he had to do. This base was not, truly, prepared for combat on anything nearing this scale. "Take good care of my ship, Doc."

"We'll bring her back in one piece," Arthur promised. He turned and held out his arm in a motion for Darvetti to join him. The doors to Ops parted and Arthur led the way out of the office. When he noticed Thomas (NPC) looking up at him from the command table, he nodded once, then continued toward the lift access point.

Aniela looked over at Captain Lange as she moved to follow the Commander, "It was nice meeting you, Captain. Perhaps some other time it will be under better circumstances... Good luck, sir."

Lange nodded and gave the younger woman a smile. "I hope so, Lieutenant. And thank you."

OFF: This has been a Joint Post buy:

Lieutenant Aniela Darvetti
Chief Science Officer
USS Orlando

&

Commander Arthur Richardson
Executive Officer
Starbase 386

&

Captain James Lange
Commanding Officer
Starbase 386

[Starbase 386 Crew]

<<Starbase 386, Shipyard, Station Day 4, 1440>>

Mikaela (PNPC) frowned as she looked at the latest reports. Some progress had been made, certainly, but not nearly as much as she'd hoped. Around half of the seven ships in for repairs were all but ready, but the refits barely seemed to be moving along at all. Mikaela knew that was to be expected - they were refits after all, and some quite extensive, but she was used to simply fixing a ship as they continued along on their merry way.

Suddenly her console chirped. Mikaela was surprised to see Kilana as she accepted the message. "Hello Kilana," she smiled. Her smile quickly faded though, when she saw the serious expression on Kilana's face.

"We don't have time for pleasantries right now...James just told me there's an Elyshan Fleet on its way," Kilana told her friend. It'd been unsettling news to hear in the first place and, somehow, it seemed even more unsettling when she had to explain it to others.

Mikaela quirked her eyebrow, "An entire Fleet of Elyshan ships?"

"Two hundred thirty-seven of them, to be exact," Kilana confirmed. "They're not messing around."

"So I guess it's safe to say they aren't just coming to have a chat with us...." Mikaela sighed. The seeming slowness of the refits and repairs seemed rather unimportant in comparison.

Kilana nodded, "You could say that. They'll be here in about two hours, so we don't have much time." Her mind was already racing with all the preparations she had to get through in that small window of time. The engineering department still wasn't fully staffed.

"What do you need me to do?" Mikaela looked at her friend as she sat a little straighter.

"For starters, how many ships are or can be made battle-worthy in the next two hours?" Kilana had a guess as to the number, but perhaps Mikaela would surprise her.

Sighing, Mikaela paused to consider what her team could do in that short a time and what was already ready. "Well....The Frontier certainly isn't ready. The Tethys, however, is in good enough shape to help out. The Malinche mostly just had a support craft swap out, so she's ready to go, as is the Peacekeeper. There's maybe two or three others that could be ready, but other than that....either the repairs are at a point that the ships would be useless or they're too far into the refit to help out."

"That's about what I expected," Kilana admitted. "Get the ships that can be ready prepared as soon as possible. Distribute your Shipyard personnel onto any ships that may need additional engineers and then report to the Peacekeeper to help out as Chief Engineer."

Mikaela's eyes watched Kilana for a moment before she replied, "I'll take care of it. Though considering that most of the Peacekeeper crew transferred to the base, technically, I'll likely need most of them there with me. I'll be sure at least one or two are on the other ships where repairs haven't been completed though."

Kilana gave a brief smile, "I knew you would. Sounds like a good plan."

"And what about you? What will you be doing?" Mikaela assumed the station's Chief Engineer would remain with the station, but otherwise...

"I need to make it look like the orbital defense platforms are working...and I'll be on the base when the Fleet arrives," Kilana replied slowly.

Raising an eyebrow, Mikaela said, "That should be interesting. Sounds fun, actually, if it were under other circumstances. Wish I could help you, though I think Marc (NPC) will have some ideas."

Kilana nodded, "My thoughts exactly. Anyway, I need to get moving and so do you. Good luck, my friend."

"And to you," Mikaela replied. She sat still until Kilana closed the connection, then stood. There was a lot to do and not much time to do it in.

OFF:

Lieutenant Mikaela Breland (PNPC)
Shipyard Foreman/Damage Control Officer
Starbase 386
played by: Warrant Officer First Class Kilana Nira

and

Warrant Officer First Class Kilana Nira
Chief Engineering Officer
Starbase 386

[Kersare]

<<USS Malinche, Ready Room, Station Day 4, 1445>>

Finishing her mug of mocha, Isabel leaned back in her chair. She'd been glad to hear that Derek's (PNPC) meeting with Aaron had seemingly gone well. He seemed more at ease since gaining actual responsibilities on the ship and, for the most part, seemed to be recovering well. Isabel knew he was still working on some things, and that he'd never be quite the same, but he seemed a closer to the Derek she knew now than even a month ago.

The console screen suddenly lit up and chirped, indicating a high priority message, "Incoming transmission."

Raising her eyebrow slightly, Isabel acknowledged the message, opening the communication link. She was a bit surprised to see James, "Captain Lange...what can I do for you?"

"Captain Kersare," Lange replied somberly, "I'm afraid I need you to prepare the Malinche for battle. We have an Elyshan fleet coming in and they're jamming subspace channels."

Of all the things he could've said, that was one she had least expected. Isabel's mind raced; it actually wasn't that much of a stretch considering the Taevon Summit which was underway, "How long until they get here?"

"They're currently less than 2 hours from weapons range at their current speed," Lange said. "I'm trying to get all available ships into defensive positions within an hour, just in case they decide they're in a hurry."

"Of course," she replied. "I'm almost afraid to ask, but how many seem to be in this Fleet?" If it truly was a Fleet, Isabel knew it wouldn't be simply a handful of ships. The main question was, were they coming to attack or were they coming to talk? Having not dealt with them before, she couldn't be entirely sure. Of course, the Battle of Altorus certainly demonstrated that they had no qualms about fighting.

"Two hundred and thirty seven," Lange replied after looking off to the side of the screen to check the numbers again. "Assuming they're not hiding any of them with cloaking devices."

Technically Isabel had no idea how many ships were in good enough condition to help defend the base, but somehow it didn't seem like there would be enough. Perhaps though.... "I don't suppose you have any tricks up your sleeve, do you Captain?"

Lange gave a humorless smile. Despite the fact that they'd only worked together once before, the woman had him figured out. "I have at least one ace in the hole. I'm working on other possibilities. If they work you may not get more than a really realistic battle drill. If not... well, I'm not going to think about that too much."

Isabel nodded, "I'll certainly be hoping for the battle drill... If there's anything else you need me to do, just let me know. I'll get my crew back aboard and at battle stations immediately."

"Thank you, Captain," Lange replied. He looked off to the side and read a note on one of his PADDs, then looked back at Kersare. "I believe Iluvar and the Tethys will be able to help us out, so he'll probably be taking the lead for the ships if it does come to a fight. I'll leave it to you and to him whether your ships fight in one piece or three."

It was good to know that the Tethys was in good enough shape to help out, even after the Battle of Altorus. Isabel guessed that some of the other ships weren't quite as lucky and were likely in the Shipyard. She replied, "I'll be sure my crew is prepared for either scenario; I image for the time being we'll likely plan on remaining in one piece, but perhaps my new Chief Security/Tactical Officer will have some other thoughts on using MVAM."

Lange nodded. "I'll leave you to your preparations. When you're ready to depart contact Ops for clearance and positioning instructions."

Her eyes watched him quietly a moment before she nodded, "Of course. Good luck, Captain."

Lange nodded again. "Thank you, Captain. Hopefully we won't need too much in the way of luck. Lange out."

The channel closed, Isabel let her body fall back against her chair. She sighed, then stood. "Yellow Alert."

With grim determination, Isabel tapped her comm badge, "Kersare to all Malinche crew. All crewmembers report to battle stations immediately. We are at yellow alert. I repeat, all Malinche crewmembers are to report to battle stations immediately. Kersare out."

She moved towards the doors, heading for the bridge. As the doors opened, the few currently on the bridge looked over at Isabel, surprised and confused. She didn't want to go into too many details and simply said, "There's an Elyshan Fleet on its way - get to your battle stations."

Too unnerved to sit, Isabel walked slowly along the bridge before tapping her comm badge once again, "Kersare to Senior Officers - report to Conference Room 1 at 1500 for a Senior Staff Briefing. Kersare out."

There was little time and things would have to move quickly. This was not what she had envisioned when the Malinche had been sent to escort the Revok to Starbase 386. But it was what was happening and they needed to be ready. With a final look at her bridge, Isabel headed for the Conference Room.

OFF: Tag crew!

JP brought to you by:

Captain James Lange
Commanding Officer
Starbase 386

and

[Masterson]

ON: [[Holodeck 2, USS Malinche, Day 4, 1458]]

Moving to lead the team into Engineering, Derek quickly entered and moved to the left, allowing the others to enter behind him. Inside it was mostly dark, other than the illumination from the consoles and the red alert lights flashing. He scanned the room with his eyes - no intruders were immediately visible. Looking back, he motioned the team forward.

Knowing Aaron, the simulation seemed to be progressing almost too smoothly. Even his training scenarios at the Academy hadn't seemed this easy, which was causing him to wonder whether they were missing something important. Putting the thought out of his mind, he moved forward as ordered, sweeping the area and then motioning all clear to the rest of the team. Greyman seemed to know what he was doing and, right now, it was best that Mike follow orders. After all, Aaron had said that this was an exercise in teamwork.

Derek continued forward until seven transporter beams materialized suddenly in front and behind the team. The Romulans appeared, disruptors in hand and ready. As they began firing at his time, Derek knew the time for silence was over, and yelled, "Find cover and fire!"

Mike did not have to be told twice. The young ensign dove to one side just as a Romulan disruptor beam sizzled through the air where he had been standing. Taking cover behind one of the engineering workstations, Mike returned fire toward the direction the beam had issued from. He heard a reassuring thud as the Romulan collapsed to the deck, but another beam from another direction forced him to return to cover.

From behind the console he'd taken cover at, Derek glanced around to see the positions of the Romulans and his team. He ducked back as a disruptor blast came, signalling that at least one Romulan had discovered him. Giving it a few seconds that felt more like an eternity, Derek departed from his cover and took a shot at a Romulan. The Romulan was quick though and quickly aimed at him. Repeating the process, Derek fired three shots in quick succession and saw the Romulan hit the floor.

Still pinned down behind his console, Mike tried to peer around the corner to see if he could locate the Romulan that was firing at him. The sizzle of another disruptor beam forced him back again, but he was pretty sure it had come from the upper level. If only there was some way he could distract the intruder long enough for him to...and then the thought came to him. In one of his courses at the Academy, they had talked about alternative methods for subduing an enemy. One of the key points had been to understand one's surroundings and use them to their own advantage.

Carefully, Mike reached up onto the console surface. He didn't know all that much detail about engineering systems, but he was sure that an overloaded console would be enough of a distraction, especially if it was right next to the intruder. Somewhat blindly, Mike tapped in a few commands, then peered over the edge so that he could see what he'd input so far. Figuring it was as good as anything, he sent the command. A moment later, a console on the upper level exploded in a shower of sparks, giving Mike a chance to emerge from cover and open fire on the Romulan. The phaser beam impacted the intruder in the center of his chest, sending him flying back into the bulkhead. Slowly, the Romulan slid to the deck, unconscious.

Watching the newest Security Officer's tactic, Derek nodded at him - the idea had been rather clever. Unfortunately, he wouldn't be able to perform something similar - the console he was near was for environmental controls and they wouldn't have the same effect. Glancing up from behind the console, he noticed two more Romulans on the upper level. They had a better vantage point, but were also more exposed. Exposing himself slightly, Derek fired several shots behind one of the Romulans, drawing him out further. He knew Mike would have a good shot at the Romulan and continued nudging the intruder in the direction he wanted.

Mike realized what his team leader was trying to do and took aim at the first of the two Romulans on the upper deck. With a steady hand, he fired his first shot, impacting the Romulan's right shoulder. The force of the beam caused the intruder to spin, dropping his disruptor before he hit the deck. The remaining Romulan must have realized that he was outmatched because he tried to make a break for one of the exits, passing to an area of the upper level where Mike did not have a clear shot.

Glad to see that Mike had caught on to the plan, Derek watched, somewhat frustrated, as the other Romulan tried to get away. He wasn't so much surprised, but disappointed that he hadn't gotten a chance to take out the last Romulan on the upper level. However, Derek looked over his shoulder as he heard additional phaser fire.

With the other Romulans behind them dispatched, Jolir had turned and noticed the last Romulan on the upper level attempting to get away. Being on the opposite side of the room from Derek and Mike, he had a good vantage point and fired. Jolir's phaser fire hit the Romulan square in the back, causing him to stop in his tracks. As the Romulan started to turn, Jolir fired again and watched him drop to the ground.

"Kersare to all Malinche crew. All crewmembers report to battle stations immediately. We are at yellow alert. I repeat, all Malinche crewmembers are to report to battle stations immediately. Kersare out."

"That's strange," Mike muttered to himself. He'd have thought such a call would have gone out before the Romulans had beamed aboard. If the captain was making such a shipwide announcement, perhaps the other team had reached the bridge successfully.

From where he was watching the scenario unfold, Aaron heard the captain's announcement over the ship's intercom and knew immediately that it was not part of his training program. "Computer, end program," he ordered, tucking the PADD under his arm as the holographic version of the Malinche shimmered out of existence around him.

Surprised at the sudden ending of the training, and, for that matter, the announcement from Isabel, Derek turned to search out where Aaron was standing. Based on Aaron's reaction, and his gut feeling about the announcement, he knew it was real. His eyes moved to K'Vora, who was standing with her team, phasers drawn at the enemies who had just disappeared.

"You heard the captain," Aaron barked, "This is not a drill. Battlestations...NOW!" He watched as his orders sunk in and the team began to discharge from the holodeck into the ship's corridor. Though he had no idea what was going on, he had a pretty good feeling that his place was going to be on the bridge.

K'Vora gave a grim smile - finally, some real action. She didn't know what it was yet, but at least she wouldn't be bored. Plus, it rescued them from additional training exercises, at least for now. Nodding to her team, the Klingon moved for the door.

Though he hadn't been in any form of battle from a StarFleet perspective in years, Derek still remembered protocol. The others from his team were already moving, other than Mike. They were more accustomed to this sort of situation than Derek was, but he quickly followed after them.

"We could use you too, Mike," Aaron said pointedly. Even though he wasn't officially part of the ship's Security/Tactical department, Aaron had a feeling that they were going to be needing every hand. Seeing that Mike was already aboard, it only made sense. Together, the two officers headed out into the busy corridor to see what was rousing such an alarm.

OFF

A JP by

Ensign Mike Kepler (NPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Lt. JG Masterson

Warrant Officer 2nd Class K’Vora (NPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

Derek Greyman (PNPC)
Security Officer
USS Malinche
Played by: Capt Kersare

And