92.1009 - In Search Of Admiral Lin

[Zhukarak Hrisvalar]

The Jefferson had just returned from a short stint retrieving the USS Copenhagen from the vicinity of the Betreka Nebula. That ship had been reduced to impulse power and needed to be towed back to Assailant. It was the beginning of the end of their R&R.

That evening after the two ships had docked, Lieutenant Kristin Hope had notified Zhuk of a priority message. Zhukarak had received his orders and he couldn’t quite believe them. He had heard the rumblings of Admiral Lin requiring medical attention, but it was apparently more serious than that and now he had gone missing. It was he who had disabled the Copenhagen from any further pursuits by her, and the task had now fallen upon the USS Jefferson to seek out and locate him before it was too late.

The situation was so serious that they were going to have guests joining them. Admiral Drew was one of them, although Zhukarak couldn’t understand why with the exception of personal reasons. He dreaded being second-guessed while in command or worse yet, being relieved of command during this mission. Doctor Stuart Mercy was joining them too for medical reasons, as he was the stations doctor and the admiral’s personal physician, and a Trill, Guardian Laurana Regarn, also here for the welfare of the missing Admiral.

Zhukarak had just sent a copy of the mission orders to Matt when a knock on his door drew his attention. “Come in.” To his surprise it was Doctor van Breughel. "Could I have a word with you please?" Nathan asked, nervously, "It’s about my abduction..and I think you're the only one I can turn to."

Zhuk rose from his desk while sensing the anxiety of the doctor. Theel’zhiin was sensing it as well as he was relaying it to Zhuk. Zhuk mentally asked Theel’zhiin to leave them alone for a few minutes and Theel’zhiin disappeared to go ‘between’. Zhukarak motioned for Nathan to have a seat on the sofa while he went to the replicator. “May I offer you anything to drink?” Zhuk asked, awaiting for his response and preparing himself of the conversation they were about to have.

[Matthew Reynolds]

The unexpected pursuit of the Copenhagen was a sure bet that the Jefferson's R&R would be coming to an end. The details of situation were sketching, but Matt knew that it involved Admiral Lin. Matt had met the man almost a year ago and seemed like a nice enough man. Matt was positive that the Jefferson would be ordered to go after the Admiral since no other ship was available at the moment.

No sooner had he dressed for the morning shift, he received a message from Colonel Hrisvalar. Matt didn't expect to be surprised by the mission orders, but he was. It seemed that Admiral Lin was no longer in control of his mind. It seemed that one of the symbiont's former host might have taken over. This of course was very bad since Admiral Lin is one of the most knowledgeable officers in Starfleet. That must be the reason that Vice Admiral Paul Drew was assigned to help the Jefferson. Doctor Stuart Mercy and Guardian Laurana Regarn would also be joining them. Matt was sure that they would be very helpful, but he quickly realized that it may cause a problem in the future. The ship would now have three suitable chief medical officers, and a Flag officer that could easily take command of the ship.

A flurry of activity erupted on the ship as Matt made his way towards the bridge. It seemed that news of their mission has spread and people were ready to get on the way. When he reached the bridge he glad to see most departments hard at work.

=^=This is Commander Matthew Reynolds, as most of you know the Jefferson has been given mission orders. All departments report in two hours. Senior staff members report to a debriefing in one hour=^=

"Where is the Captain?" Matt asked Kristin who was still on the bridge.

"He's in his ready room talking to Dr. van Breughel," Kristin replied as she began to help out the science officer.

"I wonder what they are talking about?" Matt asked himself. For a moment he debated if he should see what they were talking about, but realized that he should get the ship ready to depart as soon as Vice Admiral Drew came on board and Captain Hrisvalar gave the order.

[Deleted]

Personal Log Stardate 92.1010, it’s been several days now since Magellan disappeared, and we are still no closer to finding him. I’ve been going over his logs, and records, trying to find some sort of clue as to where he might have gone, but I have hit a dead end. I am going to be joining the Jefferson for a full scale search, and I to admit I am feeling nervous. Magellan was in a terrible state when I last saw him, in his present state of mind; there is no telling what he may do. I fear he maybe a danger not only to himself, but to anyone who is around him. I just hope we can find him before its too late.

With a wiry sigh, Drew leaned across to deactivate the recording program. He had not slept well since Magellan’s disappearance, and his body was starting to feel the effects. Looking at himself in the holomirror, he decided he should probably have a sonic shower before he left for the Jefferson, a change of uniform would probably be a good idea as well.

A short while little, he felt marginally better or at least he no longer felt like he might drop. Walking over to the bed, he finished the packing that he had started the night before, really all he had to take was his uniform, as he had left most of his belongings back on the Hanson. He had not been expecting to be away for so long.

As he started to walk towards his quarters exit, he picked up the two padds that were o the table. These contained all the information they had so far on Magellan’s activities before he had vanished, with any luck they might just come in handy.

After a short walk to the docking level, he made his way to the airlock that led to the Jefferson, as she was a state of the art Sovereign Class ship, she had a security guard posted outside. Drew nodded politely to the guard, and then pressed the communication panel on the side of the airlock door.

“This is Vice Admiral Paul Drew,” he said, introducing himself, “requesting permission to come aboard.”

[Magellan Lin]

Against the deep vacuumous blackness of deep space the Betreka Nebula was a swirling mass of blues and purples, at any other time Laurana may have found it beautiful but not today. She had been on the station only a few days and had spent most of them either here in Magellans quarters or in sickbay.

Dinas the Admirals firelizard sat curled in his basket gentle snoring. Laurana moved away from the window and ran a hand through her stangled blonde hair, she needed a shower and some decent rest. She had spent nearly 30 hours straight in Sickbay with Dr Mercy and T'Val going over Magellans readings. She didnt know Magellan well... they had met when his Field Instructor Dr Kahn had sent her to help him integrate with his symbiont. She had brought him news that Lin had had more hosts before Toya, Magellans previous host.

That encountered had very nearly been their last, then the station had turned itself on everyone and the two of them had been trapped in a turbolift and then attacked at every point whilst they struggled to regain control of the computer.

They had met again a few months later when Magellan and a team had come to Trill. He had helped expose a parasitic infestation and helped her protect the symbionts in the Caves of Mak'ala, again they had only just escaped with their lives.

So many brushes with death had cultivated a bond between them and the two had remained in contact and as soon as she had heard of his problems she was on the first transport to Assailant. Unfortunatly she had been too late, Magellan and his symbiont had become so muddled that the stronger personalitys were asserting themselves. She checked the time and realised she should be going. She dashed into the next room and ran a brush through her hair a few times, she gazed in the mirror, it wasnt pretty but it would have to do.

First to Sickbay to meet Dr Mercy and then next stop the Jefferson.

[Deleted]

Nathan watched the blue flying creature disappear in midflight, wondering what it would be like to have such a pet. Absentmindedly he rubbed the now itching scratch on his right hand, where one of the kittens had clawed him, while he let himself sink down into the sofa.

"Café Latté please," he answered the colonel's question, "no sugar." He needed the caffein to keep his wits about him as the thoughts of the terror he endured flashed through his mind as though he was experiencing them again right there. He accepted the hot beverage and stared into it for a long time, completely silent.

Then he looked up to the Andorian, who sat across him waiting patiently. Nathan noticed the occasional twitching of his antennae, understanding the marine was waiting for him to start. "I don't know where to start," he finally spoke up, rolling the mug between his hands, watching the fluid twirl within. "I find myself unable to deal with it. This was my first mission aboard a starship and previously my trip to Bellicose was my first off-world. I never imagined what it would be like, and the threats I would be exposed to. Civillians aren't trained for this," he continued, quietly hoping the colonel would suggest some combat training or something similar. "I am a doctor," he said, then fell silent.

He quietly sipped at his coffee. "I keep seeing their faces, and keep feeling what they did to me." Unconsciously his hand went to his throat, rubbing it gingerly. "I still feel his knife in my arm, despite Doctor Keller having done a very good job of healing my physical injuries. But how am I to deal with the psychological damage?"

[mercy]

On his way, Stuart ran into Guardian Laurana Regarn. “I see you’ve made it, just a bit late I’m afraid. Admiral Lin has gotten quite worse and now he is on the run, although I’m sure it’s actually one of his other hosts that is on the run.”

“Yes, I’ve just come from Ops and have read the medical reports.” Laurana replied.

“The Jefferson is being dispatched to search for him, I was just on my way there. I’m hoping that you’ll be coming along.”

“Yes, of course. I have no other business here but the one you have requested me for, to help heal Magellan Lin.”

“Great. Let’s go then.”

They had arrived on the Jefferson within ten minutes and had found their quarters which had been arranged fairly quickly. As soon as they had settled in, they both agreed to seek out the ship’s doctor and his assistant and let them know what was going on. They had found sickbay in no time and the CMO as well.

“Doctor Keller, I presume? I’m Doctor Mercy and this is Guardian Laurana Regarn of Trill.” The introductions were made while everyone quickly shook hands.

[Zhukarak Hrisvalar]

Zhukarak was enjoying a non-alcohol version of Andorian ale as he was listening intently to the doctor. It was obvious that he was still traumatized from the ordeal he had been subjected to during their last mission. Zhukarak knew that he was already on the right track for recovery, as he had come here on his own accord knowing that he needed to speak with someone. He simply needed reassurances.

“Nathan, if I may call you by that name, you are already dealing with your ordeal. I am glad that you have sought me out for this, for it takes more personal strength than you realize to admit one has a problem.” Zhukarak took another sip as well as did Nathan.

“I do regret that you were exposed to such danger, for that I take full responsibility. That is my burden that I have to deal with on every mission, the safety of my crew. It doesn’t come easy to me when even just a single one has come into danger. I am at fault as I did not ensure their safety. Of course I understand that we can’t for see everything, but I am ultimately responsible.” Nathan shook his head in understanding.

Zhuk continued on. “This will take time. You are a good doctor, a good person, and if nothing else you will become stronger because of this. You of course have the option to transfer off the ship, but I am hoping that you have continued faith in my aim for your ultimate safety. If not…then it is I who has failed you.”

Zhukarak took another sip, looking out of the portal at the many worker bees and shuttles flitting about at this starbase. His thoughts to the past…on the countless of lives where his commitment to his troop’s welfare did fail him at times.

[Matthew Reynolds]

Matt was pleased with the efficency of the crew, all departments except for operations had reported condition green. It wouldn't take long for the ship to be ready to depart. Colonel Hrisvalar had yet to appear on the bridge, but there was no reason to bother him with any of the prelaunch procedures.

“This is Vice Admiral Paul Drew,” he said, introducing himself, “requesting permission to come aboard.”

Matt wasn't expecting the Admiral to show up so soon, but then again this was no ordinary Admiral. Admiral Drew was Matt's direct superior when it came to Section 47 matters. It was strange that they had never met, but the commendations department was working just fine. When he realized that Admiral Drew was coming to the Jefferson, he immediately contacted his brother Jason who currently serves under Admiral Drew.

"Permission granted Admiral Drew, welcome to the USS Jefferson," Matt said over the comm and dashed towards the turbolift. "Computer docking level."

It didn't take long, but like usual if felt like minutes. When the lift opened Matt saw an advanced security detail approaching. He made way for them and waited for the Admiral. The footsteps were the first things that he heard and then he noticed the man. To Matt he seemed rather skinny, but then again that was normal for humans born on Mars.

"Welcome aboard the Jefferson sir," Matt said as stood at attention and saluted," I'm Commander Matthew Reynolds, the first officer."

<Tag Drew>

[darankeller]

Daran was sitting in his office in Sickbay. The mission to recover the Copenhagen near the Bertreka Nebula had gone pretty easily and there had been no casualites to speak of. He had spent the majority of the mission going over personel reports for his staff, trying to find some similar interests between them so that he could arrange some cooperative research projects.

His reading was interrupted by a shipwide announcement. =^=This is Commander Matthew Reynolds, as most of you know the Jefferson has been given mission orders. All departments report in two hours. Senior staff members report to a debriefing in one hour=^=

Daran's head came up. Staff meeting in one hour, and actually he didn't know that the ship had been given mission orders. The CMO shrugged. He would find out at the briefing. He cleared up all the PADDs that were on his desk when he heard Sickbay doors swish open and Lt. D'Amato say "Lt. Keller? He's in the CMOs office." He was curious as to who was looking for him. He sat back down behind his desk and waited patiently, until a human and Trill walked in. The human took a step forward and said “Doctor Keller, I presume? I’m Doctor Mercy and this is Guardian Laurana Regarn of Trill.”

Daran quickly shuffled through his memory as he stood up and stepped around his desk. He had never heard of the Trill, but Doctor Mercy's name was familiar. The CMO for Starbase Assailant, and a commander no less. "Nice to meet you, Dr. Mercy, and you as well, Guardian Regarn. To what do I owe the pleasure of a visit from the CMO of Assailant?"

"Laurana and I will be tagging along for the Jefferson's upcoming mission. Admiral Magellan Lin is very ill and has fled from Starbase Assailant. The Jefferson has been assigned to recover him. I am the Admiral personal physician, and Laurana has extensive experience with Trill illnesses" the commander explained.

Leaving me in the backseat for this mission, Daran thought to himself, then shrugged inwardly. He was still just a lieutenant, and there was undoubtedly a lot he could learn from these two. "That's fine, Dr. Mercy. There was just a shipwide bulletin for a staff meeting in a just under an hour. Would you like a fast tour of shipboard medical facilities? I can also get Lt. D'Amato to arrange quarters for the two of you."

[Deleted]

With his request granted, Drew placed his hand on the security scanner, almost instantly the airlock doors slid open. Nodding to the security guard, Drew picked up his luggage, and walked onto the USS Jefferson.

One of the first things he noticed upon stepping aboard was how bigger the corridors were compared to those on the Hanson, and other vessels he had served on in the past. He had of course seen the specifications for Sovereign Class ships before, but this was the first time he had ever been aboard one. Before that, the Prometheus Class had been the biggest Federation ship he had been aboard.

As he walked further down the corridor he looked round to see who would be greeting him. He had never met Colonel Hrisvalar before, and although he knew Matt Reynolds, this would be their first face to face meeting. Spotting a command division officer standing smartly to attention at the end of the corridor, Drew decided he was probably the one to head for.

As he approached, he recognised the man to be Matt Reynolds, they had often communicated over subspace together, and he had seen photos of the senior Reynolds brother in Jason’s quarters on the Hanson.

"Welcome aboard the Jefferson sir," Matt said still standing to attention and giving Drew a salute," I'm Commander Matthew Reynolds, the first officer."

“Pleasure to meet you at last Commander,” Drew said, returning the salute, “Now please, at ease.”

“Thank you sir,” Matt replied, “if you would like to come with me, I will show you to your quarters.”

“Thank you Commander, that would be appreciated,” Drew answered, picking up his luggage bag again, “I am sorry we are had to cut short your R&R time.”

“I am sure it couldn’t be helped,” Matt said, as he led Drew towards a turbolift, “after all, Admiral Lin didn’t plan on disappearing.”

“No,” Drew replied, stepping into the turbolift with Matt, “no, I guess he didn’t.” Drew did not add that his his unspoken fear that whoever Magellan was now, that they had planned this all along.

The rest of time in the turbolift was spent in silence, as Drew became lost in his thoughts. Starfleet had given orders that any measure of force could be used to stop Magellan, although his security clearances had all been removed, he was still a major security threat to the Federation. If he were to deflect to the Romulans, or the Cardiassians, the repercussions would be disastrous. But, Drew had to ask himself, could he really kill his friend if he had to? Even if it meant saving the Federation? The answer scared him.

“Admiral?” Matt asked, bringing Drew back to reality, “are you alright sir?”

“Yes, I am fine, sorry,” Drew said, shaking his head to clear his thoughts, “I was a million light years away.”

“Not a problem sir,” Matt replied, “your quarters are just down here on the left, if you would like to follow me.”
“Of course,” Drew said, stepping out of the turbolift and following Matt.

“And here we are,” Matt said, stopping outside one of the VIP quarters and keying in a command to open the door, “I’ll give you chance to unpack your things and settle in sir, there is a staff meeting scheduled for one hour.”

“Understood,” Drew replied, walking into the room, “thank you Commander, I’ll see you then.”

“You are welcome sir. I’ll see you in an hour.”

Alone with his thoughts, Drew felt the familiar dread rise in him again, dropping his luggage bag to the floor, he walked over to the replicator and ordered a strong cup of tea.

Holding the steaming cup of energy restoring refreshment close to him, he settled into one of the chairs and accessed one of the computer consoles on the table. Tapping in his login codes, he searched the latest news feeds from Command to see if there was anymore on Magellan, sadly, there was not.

“Where are you Magellan?” Drew wondered out loud, as he slowly drank his tea.

[Magellan Lin]

Magellan sat quietly at the flight console of the small Hideki class Cardassian fighter that he had taken from Assailant. Since disabling the Copenhagen and escaping Starfleet several hours ago Magellan had let his course drift on a whim.

His mind, deep within Lin, reeled at what had happened he felt like a spectator within his own body. He could feel Bryson was in control now but the poor man had no idea what to do, he didnt have the strength to fight Loran and access all the memories but as a historian he didnt have a clue how to fly a fighter let alone one with a Cardassian interface. Out of the remaining hosts Loran obviously knew, she had a strength of will that was able to keep all of them in place unless she was resting. Gethin had been a diplomat and wasn't flight rated and Toya. Poor Toyas death at the hands of Symbiont Black Marketeers had scarred her so badly that what was left of her within Lin was mentally unstable. Magellan felt Bryson slip out of control, quck as a flash he attempted to reassert his control but Loran was faster and stronger.

With a smile Magellan turned in his seat and with a decisive touch entered new coordinates in to the computer and went to Warp. She knew exactly where she wanted to go and exactly what she wanted to do.

[Deleted]

Nathan felt somewhat better as he listened to the marine commanding officer relate his own experiences. He rose his eyebrows at the transfer comment. "Transfer? Not a chance...sir," he exclaimed, then offered a wry grin, "my sister would never forgive me if I did that. Nor would my...friend." He wasn't sure how to refer to his special friend in public, knowing the person in question wouldn't quite appreciate it. Yet, Nathan couldn't help but still feel a pang of worry ever when he thought about him.

"I would like to remain aboard, if that is permissible," he continued, "I'll not have one bad experience ruin the rest of them for me. At least, I'll try not to."

"I wasn't requesting that you transfer, not at all. I am glad that you want to remain with us. As I mentioned, it's time that will help you overcome this. Until then, feel free to speak with me when the need arises."

Nathan drank his coffee in silence, for the moment just enjoying the company. Theel'ziin had returned now that emotions had calmed down somewhat and had actually approached him. The human doctor held out his hand towards the little blue and it hopped onto his arm, crooning softly as Nathan carefully stroked his leathery hide. "His skin feels so soft," he said, gazing up at the Andorian in surprise, "what for creature was he again?"

"A firelizard. I aquired him at the starbase, it seems there are a few around. They select you in a way if you happen to be around when they are born, and then bond with you, essentially becoming life-long bondmates and protectors. That is why I have named him Theel'zhiin, it means Guardian Sword."

After he'd finished his coffee and his chat, Nathan got to his feet. "Thank you for listening colonel," he said earnestly, "I think I'll return to sickbay now. I heard something about another doctor arriving, and it wouldn't do for me not to meet him now would it? I also heard Admiral Drew is coming aboard?"

Nathan left the Andorian to his own thoughts and returned to sickbay, again absentmindely rubbing the scratch on his hand. The one on his cheek had finally stopped bleeding, but that one too started itching. When he entered sickbay, he saw a human wearing a teal uniform and wearing commander's pips on his collar talking to Daran Keller. With him was a Trill female.

He approached the small group and extended his hand to both newcomers. "Greetings. I'm Nathan van Breughel, ship's gynaecologist and assistant chief medic," he introduced himself, "and Nathan will do when calling me. I am a civillian." He turned to Daran, smiling a little more genuinely than the past days. "I've just had a most interesting chat, I'll talk to you about that later doctor," he explained, then extended his hand. "When you have time, could you have a look at this? I don't understand it, I'm not allergic to cats."

He looked over his shoulder at Laurana. "Are you a joined Trill ma'am?"

[Magellan Lin]

"No" Laurana shook her head, "I am a Guardian, our sole goal is to care for and protect the symbionts. We never take them ourselves."

"I see" Nathan replied,

"If you don't mind I think time is off the essence, I would like to see my quarters and then perhaps we should be underway?"

TAG All

[darankeller]

Dr. Mercy was about to respond to Daran's question when Dr. van Breughel walked into the CMO's office. Daran gave Nathan a surprised look as he walked in. Nathan's face and hand were scratched up. Even more surprising was his demeanor. His assistant CMO seemed almost...relaxed. At least more at ease than Daran had seen him. It was a pleasant change.

Nathan quickly introduced himself to the two visitors, then asked Daran to take a look at his scratches, which were apparently inflicted by a cat.

Laurana then asked to be shown to her quarters, as she was expecting the Jefferson to get underway quickly. Daran nodded and tapped his communicator. "Computer, this is Dr. Keller. Please assign appropriate quarters to Commander Stuart Mercy and Guardian Laurana Regarn. They are assigned to the Jefferson for the duration of our next mission."

There was a brief pause, then the computer replied. "Quarters assigned. Commander Stuart Mercy, Deck 3, Cabin 317. Guardian Laurana Regarn, Deck 3, Cabin 319."

Daran turned back to the little group. "Well, it seems that you have adjoining quarters. Nathan and I will accompany you up."

The party of four quickly left Sickbay and made their way to Deck 3, then to the assigned cabins. Mercy and Legarn went to their doors. Before they entered, Daran said. "Well, we'll leave the two of you to get your things organized. Is there anything else that you need?"

<Stuart or Laurana>

[mercy]

Stuart thought about the question for the moment when he realized that this doctor was a bit too formal for him. It then occurred to him why. “For the moment, no. I will take you up on your offer of that tour later on, once we are on our way. In the mean time, I will forward the medical records of Admiral Lin’s condition and our findings to you, for your perusal. Perhaps you may see something that we have missed. If it’s alright with you, I want us to work together on this, as colleagues. I have no use for rank when it comes to saving people’s lives.”

<Daran>

This seemed to please the Chief Medical Officer of the Jefferson, as he appeared a bit more relaxed during his reply.

Everyone took their leave from each other in order to get settled. Stuart entered his quarters and quickly decided that he could actually use some rest, but not before he uploaded the medical files for Doctor Keller. Soon afterwards he retrieved a cup of hot chocolate from the replicator and simply relaxed on his couch. There was plenty of time for the stowing of his gear later.

[Zhukarak Hrisvalar]

Zhukarak was pleased of the confidence Doctor van Breughel had shown by coming to him for counseling. Things would turn out well in due time.

A blinking indicator on his terminal caught Zhuk's attention, it was the one for new messages. With Theel'zhiin in his lap, Zhuk started to browse through them. The first was from security and it was about the arrival of their new guests, Doctor Mercy, Guardian Regarn, and Admiral Drew. Zhuk was surprised that he hadn't been notified by his First Officer, he might have noticed that Zhuk was in conference and he had the feeling that all was well taken care of.

The next message was a forwarding of the medical report from Doctor Mercy and Healer T'Val about Admiral Lin. It indicated a that the Admiral had become unstable and they had theorized that his past hosts may be vying for control of him.

The last message was the possible addition of new crew members, two of which for senior staff position. One of the names caught Zhuk's eye, he hoped it was true. He would be delighted if it was. For now he would keep this to himself and not get set up for disappointment.

Having gone through all of the messages, it was time he payed a visit. A quick glance at the assignments of the guest quarters told Zhukarak where he needed to go. Zhuk stepped from his Ready Room onto the bridge where Matt informed him of their guests.

"I was just on my way to greet the Admiral. Call all senior staff together for a briefing now. I'll bring the Admiral and then we can get started."

<Matt>

Zhukarak then left the bridge and headed directly for Admiral Drew. He noted that Theel'zhiin had gone 'between' again, perhaps to say good-bye to the others of his kind on the starbase. He smiled at the thought.

After ringing the door chime to the Admiral's quarters, he was allowed to enter. The marine within Zhuk came forth as he stood at attention and gave a crisp salute.

"Sir! Welcome aboard the USS Jefferson!"

Admiral Drew returned the salute and allowed him to relax.

"Thank you sir. If I may come straight to the point, in what capacity are you joining us for this mission? Am I to step down from the Captain's chair?"

<Paul>

[Deleted]

Drew looked curiously at Colonel Hrisvalar, in a way he had been expecting this, it was never a pleasant experience for a ship’s captain to have an admiral come aboard.

“Why don’t we discuss this inside Colonel?” Drew said, stepping back to allow the Colonel entry. Several passing crewmembers were already looking over with interest at the conversation between the two command officers, and Drew had no intention of adding to the lower decks gossip.

Walking over to the replicator, Drew asked Colonel Hrisvalar if he wanted anything to drink, when the Colonel shook his head, and declined to take a seat, Drew decided it was probably best to get right down to business.

“To answer part of your question, I have no intention of relieving you as captain of the Jefferson. This is your ship, and your crew, I fail to see the benefits in changing that.”

The Colonel relaxed slightly at that reassurance, but he was still on edge, after all, Drew still had not answered the rest of the question, what was to be his own role?

“As for my role, that is more difficult to answer,” Drew paused, trying to find the right words, “you have to understand Colonel that I have known Magellan Lin for a very long time, I regard him as one of my closest friends, he is in trouble, and I have to do everything I can to try and help him.”

Drew watched the Colonel’s reaction to his words carefully. He was of course aware of his service history. But not only was this there first meeting, it was also going to be there first time working together. With a mission this important, Drew wondered if he could trust this Colonel Zhukarak Hrisvalar. But then he remembered; Magellan trusted this man, he had spoken highly of him on several occasions. The Colonel would not be commanding a ship in Magellan’s fleet unless he was one of the best. Drew made his decision.

“Command of this ship, and this mission is yours Colonel, consider me to be nothing more than an advisor, if and when you need it.”

As he spoke those words, Drew hoped and prayed he had made the right decision.

<Over to you Colonel. I wonder how well these two will really work together >

[gracemitchell]

Grace had just recieved a request for her to re-join the USS Jefferson in hopes that her telepathic experience with the symbiot Jira will help with the search for Magellan Lin. Grace wasn't completely sure she could contact the symbiot but she was willing to try.

As she read through the request, Grace notcied that Admiral Drew and Dr Mercy were both going to be on board. Grace remembered a joint mission with the doctor when she had been stationed on the Nevada, so she was looking forward to reconnecting with him.

Admiral Drew was another thing. Grace's great, great, great, great granddaughter, Caring Sorrow had served with the Admiral for a short period of time. Caring had spoken highly of the admiral but as a rule, Grace wasn't too thriilled to be in close proximity to any admiral.

Of course she could turn the request down, but this was her chance to get back on board a ship, to prove herself ready for duty again and it would be with her old friend Zhuk and the crew of the Jefferson. It would be good to see them.

Grace acknowledged that she would take on this temporary assignment, then she began to pack. Just as she was finishing her packing she felt something appear on her shoulder. It was Theel'zhiin, who had come from 'between' to see her. Theel'zhiin wazs quite excited. apparantly Zhuk had already recieved word of her pending arrival, but it wasn't confirmed yet.

Grace had an idea, she immediately requested that her orders be brought to the Jefferson by herself as a surprise to the crew. Grace also requested that Theel'zhiin not give the surprise away to Zhuk. Theel'zhiin promised to stay 'between' until Grace was safely on board the Jefferson.

Grace downloaded her orders to a PADD and left her temporary quarters on starbase to where the USS Jefferson was docked.

As Grace approached where the Jefferson was docked she recognized the security guard, "Hello Tim! How have you been?"

"Commander. You are looking well. How may I help you?" Crewman Tim Howard said as he saluted Grace.

"Request permission to come aboard, Crewman!" Grace returned the salute and handed the crewman her padd.

"Permission granted, Commander. Please place your hand on the security scanner and the door will open." Tim replied as he returned the padd to Grace.

Grace placed her hand on the security scanner and she as allowed to enter the USS Jefferson once again. She stopped, looked around and said to herself "I'm home once again".

Grace accessed the first computer panel she came upon =^=Computer, please give me the location of Colonal Hrisvalar=^=

=^=Colonal Hrisvalar is located in Admiral Drew's quarters=^=

Grace wasn't ready to meet the admiral, yet so she decided she should report to the bridge to get her quarters assigned. Since she is only temporarily assigned to the Jefferson she knew she couldn't just plop down in her old quarters. Grace couldn't wait to see Matt's face, she knew he had been promoted to the FO position she had vacated. Grace headed for the nearest turbolift, made her request and off she went.

The doors to the turbolift opened and Grace stepped once again on the bridge of the Jefferson.

As Grace stepped on to the bridge, a number of personnel turned to look to see who had come on the bridge the majority were needeless to say just a little stunned to see their former FO. Some of the personnel started to look at their current FO, Matt, then back at Grace. From where she was standing Grace couldn't help but smile and say "Permission to come aboard, sir" as she saluted Matt.

Matt turned in the direction of the voice he remembered well.

<Tag Matt>

[darankeller]

Daran quietly breathed a sigh of relief as Dr. Mercy finished his statement. He had thought for sure that he would be quickly shunted aside as Commander Mercy and the Guardian conducted their search for the missing Admiral. "Yes sir. I'll take a look at Admiral Magellan's medical notes when they show up. Thank you."

The commander and guardian took their leave, so Daran turned to Dr. van Breughel. "All right Nathan. We seem to have a few minutes. Why don't I take a look at those scratches. They seem to be getting more inflamed."

Nathan nodded and the two of them returned to Sickbay.

[Deleted]

Nathan stood perfectly still as his chief ran a scanner over the scratches. "I don't understand," he explained, "I've been scratched before, and it never irritated me like this." Then he cast a worried look at Daran. "Could it be an effect of whatever I was drugged with?" he wondered aloud, while the CMO ran the dermal regenerator over his skin and injected him with a dose of anti-histamines and antibiotics.

He hoped it wasn't the case, but since whatever he'd been drugged with was from the future, it could contain anything his immunesystem had been unable to handle...or saw as self instead of non-self, and which was now compromising his immunesystem.

Nathan leaned back against the biobed, crossing his arms over his chest when Daran was done. "What exactly is ailing admiral Lin?" he finally asked, nodding towards where Mercy and Laurana had left. "They don't send a top medic here if it isn't serious. I've never met admiral Lin, but I have heard he's quite close to the previous CMO. I wonder why she wasn't sent, she also knows this ship."

He paused, glancing at the PADD Daran had lain aside in order to help him. "I went to see the colonel today," he said after a long silence, "and I actually feel better. I do need to talk to a counselor, and it'll take time before I'm myself again. However, it won't affect my judgement while working. I just wanted you to know, and I'm also available if you and Doctor Mercy need any assistance."

[Matthew Reynolds]

Matt's first encounter with Admiral Drew went rather well. There was a bit of small talk, but for the most part they both stayed silent. After showing the Admiral to the VIP quarters, Matt made his way back to the bridge where he immediately went back to work.

As he walked to his seat, Matt wondered if the Captain was still talking to Doctor Van breughel. His question was soon answered when the Colonel walked out of his readyroom alone.

"Good morning sir," Matt said," Admiral Drew and our other guest are already onboard."

"I was just on my way to greet the Admiral. Call all senior staff together for a briefing now. I'll bring the Admiral and then we can get started."

"Understood, sir," Matt said as he tapped his commbadge," All senior staff report for the staff meeting immediately." After making his announcement Matt lesuirley went back to work, until he noticed that the bridge had become eerily quite. Then he heard a very familiar voice, one that he couldn't forget.

"Permission to come aboard, sir" as she saluted Matt.

"Permission granted," Matt responded as he returned the salute. ~For future reference please don't call me sir~ Matt thought hoping that his former first officer would pick up on it. "Welcome back to the Jefferson, Commander."

<Tag Grace>

[gracemitchell]

~Now, Matt you know I don't read mind intentionally!~ Grace respnded with a her mind but on the outside she replied "I am happy to be back.
Altough currently it is only temporarily. Star Fleet is hoping my telepathic contact with another Trill's symbiot will be helpful in locating Admiral Lin." as Grace handed her padd to Matt. "Theel'zhiin is waiting 'between' until I have a chance to surprise the Colonal. I think he is aware it was a possibility that I would be on board but it hadn't been confirmed. I wanted to surprise him."

<Tag Matt >

[darankeller]

Daran studied the results of Nathan's scan. Everything seemed normal. There was a slightly increased histamine response going through Nathan right now. However, there was no history of cat dander allergies in his patient's records. So, if he was having an allergic response, it probably wasn't to cats. Just to be safe, he injected Nathan with a anti-histamine and a broad spectrum anti-biotic.

"I've been scratched before, and it never irritated me like this. Could it be an effect of whatever I was drugged with?" Nathan asked worriedly.

Daran continued to study the results of Nathan's medical scan. "I wouldn't worry about it, Nathan. It looks to me like your system is reacting to something besides a cat allergy. These results seem more like a pollen induced allergic reaction than anything else. Been anywhere unusual recently?"

Nathan shook his head negatively.

"How about your cats? You were out of your quarters a fair bit of the last mission" Daran inquired.

Nathan frowned as he answered. "I made an arrangement with Nurse Lowell that she would take them into her quarters if I was away for an extended period."

"Alright. Let's see where that takes us." Daran stuck his head into the bio lab adjoining Sickbay. "Nurse Lowell, could you step in here for a second?"

Nurse Lowell joined them in Sickbay. "What can I do for you doctor?" she inquired.

"I was just wondering if Nathan's cats had gotten into anything while he was on his away mission" Daran asked.

The nurse looked a little embarrassed, but said "Yes doctor. The cats got into my flowering hydranea's. They left a bit of a mess."

Nathan looked surprised. "Why didn't you say anything?"

Hannah shrugged. "They're just plants. I adore your cats, Dr. van Breughel."

"Thanks Hannah" The nurse left and Daran turned to Nathan. "Mystery solved. The cats paws and claws are covered with plant material and pollen, which they carried to your quarters and caused your allergic reaction."

Nathan relaxed visibly, then briefly explained that he had gone to visit the Colonel and explained his need to see a counsellor. Daran nodded along, inwardly relieved that his assistant had seen the need to talk to someone by himself. Then Nathan asked about their mission to recover Admiral Lin.

"I don't really know what's the matter with the Admiral. Dr. Mercy promised to send along the relevant medical records." Daran turned to his computer and opened his personal communication. In it, there was a file from Dr. Mercy. "Presumably this is it, but I haven't had a chance to look at it yet. Perhaps both of us could review and see if there is anything that we can add." Nathan nodded and stepped over.

Just then, the first officers voice echoed through the ship. "Senior staff, report to the briefing rooom."

Daran glanced at Nathan. "Well, maybe later. We should go." Nathan nodded and the two of the walked out of Sickbay.

[Magellan Lin]

Patience had never been an attribute of Lauranas. Old Yeth had often upbraided her for her impetousness he found it strange that someone whose job was to compliment the tranquility of the Caves of Mak'ala had ever become a Guardian, but then Guardianship was a calling and who knew the reasons behind that.

After checking into her quarters and tossing her bag on to the bed she was relieved to feel the Jefferson hum to life, from a window she could see the interior of Assailant begin to move and the space dock doors open. At last they were on there way.

She made her way briskly up through the Jefferson using computer direction arrows on the corridors to assist her in reaching the main conference lounge. She and Admiral Drew arrived at the same time and he led her over to one side of the table and pulled out a chair for her.
"Thankyou " She nodded politely
Colonel Hrisvalar stood by the window his Antennae twitching slightly, she had never met an Andorian before and was unsure what to expect.

The medical staff appeared next, Dr Keller, Dr Van breughal and Dr Mercy seemed deep in discussion as they entered they chatted a moment before Mercy joined Drew and her and Keller and Nathan went to sit with the other Jefferson Staff.

Some how aware that everyone was assembled Colonel Hrisvalar turned from the window and came to the head of the table,
"Thankyou for coming." He began, "I m sure most of you are aware of the general mission outline news of a rogue Admiral tends to travel fast but I thought I better formally introduce our guests and establish a plan of action."
Laurana scowled at the rogue Admiral part but smiled as Zhukarak turned to their side of the table.

"Let me introduce Admiral Drew formerly of Assailant but now of the Hanson, Dr Mercy Chief of Medical Staff on Assailant and Laurana a Guardian from Trill"
There was a polite round of greetings and pleasantries.
"As ranking officer perhaps you would like to start us off Admiral"
Paul accepted the floor and rose to move to the head of the table where he stood in front of the screen. He tapped a button and an image of a Trill Admiral appeared,

"This is Admiral Magellan Lin, Commanding Officer of Starbase Assailant and the First Fleet and a good friend of mine. Something very wrong has happened to Magellan. Last week I was summoned to Assailant by Captain Felix Savali - Sector JAG officer to assist him in removing Admiral Lin from Active duty pending charges of corruption. He furnished me with evidence that proved that Magellan rigged a Mayoral Election in favour of the incumbent Mayor - Drolem Simeth who is well known to have criminal contacts with any number of pirates, the Orion Syndicate and the Tammeron Consortium.
Approximatly 72 hours ago Magellan escaped custody and in his Hideki class Cardassian Fighter fled from the area. He was able to disable his pursuers - the Copenhagen with relative ease.

We...ladies and gentleman need to find the Admiral and return him for treatment and trial."

"Treatment?" Grace asked,

"We believe Magellan is not in his right mind" Paul replied, "Dr Mercy?"
Stuart now rose and crossed to the screen.

"Two weeks ago Magellan suffered a fall, he was beamed to a Debrune medical facility where he recieved treatment for a mild concussion. On returning to duty I examined him and detected a slight imbalance in his isoboramine levels"

"That regulates a trills link to the symbiont" Daran added

"Yes. Over the 2 weeks he started to become uncharacteristically snappy and suffer from extreme mood swings. He... like most CO's refused treatement or further examination. I however had the computer monitor his lifesigns when I became concerned that he was on the brink of a collapse psychologically and physically I medically removed him from command nad had him taken to sickbay. There it appeared the barriers that kept the Lin symbionts previous hosts seperate had broken down. Magellan is now one of five identities vying for control of his body. Its my belief that one of his hosts was in control whilst rigging the election. He was aware of the problem and tried to solve it by himself medicating himself with Isoboramine injections which very nearly killed him. The problem is that he has very nearly overdosed on the isoboramine that nearly shut down his renal functions but it was these injections that supressed his other hosts."

"Our job... your job is to help us track the Admiral down and try to help him, Guardian Lauarana is here to help Dr Mercy and Keller in that capacity. I am here as his friend and hopefully to try and out think him. You need to remember this is a Flag Admiral, he is my friend but he knows everything a Starfleet Admiral does... make no mistake he is dangerous especially when he is controlled by his host - Loran.... Questions"

Paul looked round at the bewildered faces, it was true it was an awful lot to take in and he wasnt even sure he had fully assimilated it all yet.

[Deleted]

Cyle sighed as the Jefferson came into view on the screen in front of him. Colonel Zhuk Hrisvalar, who was his former first officer, was now his commanding officer. Unfortuneatly for Cyle, his attitude hadnt changed much from the last time he meet with the Colonel, although they had an understanding.

Guiding his shuttle towards the Jefferson, he gave his request, and moments later was given permission to dock. Letting the shuttle take control, he gathered up his belongings and got ready to exit. Carrying the PADD with his transfer papers in hand, he headed out of the shuttle bay, after all other procedures had been completed.

Walking to the bridge, he passed his quarters and dropped his clothes and belongings off, placing them on his bed. He tapped his foot as the turbolift took him to the bridge, impatiently waiting. When the doors finally opened, he rolled his eyes and sighed as he noticed the senior officers were in a meeting. "great, a wild goose chase" he said turning around and heading towards the conferance room.

Moments later Cyle stood outside the door to the conferance room, and pressed the door chime. "Enter" he heard from the other side and stepped forward. Taking a quick look around the room, he saw Grace, Zhuk, and a few others including the admirals he didnt know personally. "Sir, Major Cyle Johnson reporting for duty"

OOC hello all, i am your newest addition to the Jefferson