Mission 15: In a Mirror, Darkly

[Mc7_of_9]

Mc7 sat alone in his quarters. There was some soft music playing in the background, though he wasn't quite sure what it was. Sitting with his eyes closed, he reviewed the events of the last few hours, and their culmination in him being relieved of Command of the Raven by Admiral Kimmel. His conversation with Captain Worthing of the Wolf also worried him greatly. He had heard rumours for a few months now about an element inside Starfleet Command which had begun to suspect the ever increasing number of former Borg drones which had been freed from the collective and returned to active duty within Starfleet were a security threat. Until today however, he hadn't put much stock in the rumours. Suddenly he wished he had.

Computer, are these quarters currently being monitored by security?

That information is restricted to active duty officers.

The friendly female voice of the Raven's computer replied, giving Mc7 the answer he needed. Walking over to the desk against the wall he lifted the P.A.D.D. from it's holder and began to type a series of commands, being careful not to hit enter until the right moment came. As he was finishing inputting the sequence the chime of his door sounded.

I wonder if this is the interrogation starting, he thought to himself. Instructing the person on the other side of the doors to enter, they parted to allow Commander Torek to enter. Mc7 was pleasantly surprised to see his XO coming through the doors.

Carl, have a seat. Can I get you something to drink?

Thanks Sir. I'll have a cappuccino please.

With a look of almost pain crossing his face, mc7 answered him while walking over to the replicator station,

Cappuccino it is, but since I've been relieved of Command I think you can drop the Sir.

Having collected the drinks from the replicator Mc7 made his way back to the seats around the coffee table where Carl was seated. After sitting down, Mc7 tapped the button on his P.A.D.D. to run the first sequence of commands he had programmed into it. A second later, the console on the desk beeped.

Do you want me to give you some privacy to get that?

No, it's fine Carl, the older man said as he walked over to the desk. Looking for a few seconds, he turned to Carl and told him it was for him.

A confused look spread over Carl's face as he made his way over to the console and began to read.

Anything important?

No, it was just Scott updating me to the status of the engine trials we've been conducting.

Mc7 was relieved. That was the code phrase he had put into the message for Carl to say if he was prepared to help Mc7 carry out the second part of his plan. As he hit the run command on his P.A.D.D. for the second time, a number of different things happened. Holodeck 2 sprang into life, with the room becoming an mirror image of Mc7's quarters, complete with Mc7 and Carl continuing their conversation. Simultaneously the security feeds currently being taken from those quarters was re-directed to the holodeck.

Thanks for this Carl, I really appreciate it. When Kimmel came aboard and gave me some hints as to why he was here, I put this little plan in place in case it became necessary to get myself out of a little predicament such as this one. All of the security feeds are now directed to holodeck 2, which is running a program that mirrors my quarters with us in them. The computer now thinks I am in my quarters and wont leave them until I get it instructions otherwise. I think we can trust Captain Worthing to help me. I'm going to beam over to the Wolf and convince her to help. If it works I'll set a course straight to Earth and let them know exactly what's going on. If Commands in on it, then the President better expect a visitor. If you could stay in my quarters for another hour or so, that will give me a chance to talk to Worthing without raising any suspicions.

Carl didn't say a word, he merely nodded, which was all Mc7 needed to see.

Standing up, mc7 hit the run button on the P.A.D.D. for the third and final time, and then felt a slight tingle wash over his body as the transporter beam de-materialised his molecules carrying them to the USS Wolf's ready room.

[Carl Torek]

Carl arrived at the Admirals quarters .. A solitary Security Officer stood in front of the door. He stood a little straighter as the Exec' approached, but made no move to step aside ..

"I'm going in to see the Admiral." Torek said, matter of factly.

The Officer hesitated for half a second, then activating the door chime, stepped away from the door ..

" Carl .. Have a seat." Mc said, a wry grin forming, "Can I get you something to drink ?"

"Cappuccino .. Sir." Carl replied, taking the offered seat.

"Cappuccino it is .. But since I've been relieved of Command I think you can drop the Sir."

Carl took the cup and stayed quiet while his Commanding Officer spoke .....

~~~~~~~~~~

Thirty minutes later, Carl headed for the door ..

"I'll do that Admiral." he said as the door closed behind him .. Nodding to the Security Officer, Torek headed back to the Bridge .... Admiral Kimmel was there, watching the Wolf and seemingly deep in thought.

"Commander .. You have just visited Admiral Mc7_of_9 .. Would you mind telling me what you spoke about." he said, raising his eyebrows.

"You didn't record our discussion then ?" Torek replied, all semblance of respect gone from his voice, "I find that hard to believe."

"No Mister Torek .. We didn't." Kimmel said, walking slowly toward the turbo-lift, "I would be very careful Commander .. Your 'tone' is bordering on insubordination as it is .. I would hate your promising career to end abruptly."

Carl watched the man enter the lift, making sure to keep his expression as neutral as possible. Once the doors closed, Carl took his seat. There was no way to inform the Bridge crew without getting them involved too deeply. He also knew that Kimmel would waste no time getting Mc wherever he needed him .. McLean entering the Bridge gave him an idea. So before the Engineer could begin to complain about the treatment of his engines, Carl asked a question ..

"Scott .. How long would a Level One diagnostic take on the warp core systems ?"

"What ?" McLean said, obviously taken by surprise, "We can run a Level One check in just under four hours .. But why woul ......"

"Run a Level Two diagnostic now." Carl interrupted, then explained briefly as the Engineer frowned yet again, "Scott .. The Admiral has been relieved of Command .. I'm certain that Kimmel and Willard are NOT planning on taking him to Earth for questioning .. I'm more certain that we NEED that diagnostic." he finished, watching his idea dawning on Scott ...

"We need to run a diagnostic on the warp core systems Commander." McLean said, for the benefit of any recording, "A Level Two should suffice .. The warp engines will be off-line for one hour."

"OK Commander." Carl said, grinning, "Run your checks ..... Mr Ramius .. Status of the Wolf ?"

"She's brought her warp engines on-line .. But apart from that she's still sat ten thousand meters away."

"Thank you Marko." Torek said ...



'When will you bolt Admiral .. When will you bolt ?' Carl thought, smiling inwardly as he watched the ship hanging is space before them ..........

[Mc7_of_9]

As the transporter lost its grip over Mc7, he looked around at his new surroundings. He was now aboard the USS Wolf, a Defiant class vessel captained by Janice Worthing. Tapping his comm. Badge, Mc7 spoke to the Wolf’s computer.

Mc7_of_9 to computer of the USS Wolf. What is my current location?

You are currently located at section 2, deck 2.

Only one deck below the Bridge then. That should make this a bit easier, he thought to himself. Walking to the end of the corridor where he could see a turbolift, he stepped in and speaking the word Bridge, the doors closed and the car began to move. Seconds later, the doors parted to reveal the small and compact Bridge of the USS Wolf. A few heads turned to see who was entering the Bridge, and an Ensign manning the tactical station jumped out of his seat and barked,

Admiral on the Bridge

At the sound of those words, Worthing stood from her command seat and turned to face the turbolift. A look of puzzlement passed over her face and before she could say a word, Mc7 spoke.

Captain, we need to talk.

Yes Admiral, I think we do,

Came the reply, as she nodded her head back towards the turbolift. Once they were both in the car, the Captain ordered it to take them to the mess hall, since the Defiant Class vessels didn’t come equipped with a captains ready room. When they arrived at the mess hall the Captain asked for it to be cleared, and the four crew members who were using it obliged immediately.

Captain, I’ll lay all of my cards on the table. I need your help to save Starfleet from itself.

Despite being an Admiral who had undergone many trauma’s in his life, no less being assimilated then freed from the borg collective, Mc7 had never felt as exposed as he did right now.

Go on

Was the only response he received from the woman sitting opposite him.


~~~35 minutes later on the Bridge of the Raven~~~


Marko looked up with a hint of surprise from his console as he spoke,

Commander Torek, the Wolf has just gone to warp with no advance notice.

A small smile crept over Carl’s face as Marko spoke, and when he had finished Carl asked for the Wolf’s heading.

If she stays on the same heading Sir, she’ll reach Earth in a day and a half.


OCC: The chase is on people!

[Carl Torek]

Carl had only been seated on the Bridge for five minutes .. He figured the Admiral would want to put 'space' between him and the Raven, sooner, rather than later. So he wasn't exactly surprised when Ramius spoke ..

"Commander Torek." he said, puzzled, "The Wolf has just gone to warp with no advance notice."

Carl grinned ..

"What's her heading ?"

"If she stays on the same heading Sir .. She will reach Earth in a day and a half."

'Good for you Admiral' Carl thought as he smiled at the view-screen .. He wasn't quite certain how Kimmel found out about the Wolf's departure, but he suddenly 'flew' from the turbo-lift ..

"COMMANDER ...... Where is the Wolf ?" he said, almost glaring at Torek.

Carl gave the question some serious thought ... Seeing that 'Admiral' Kimmel was about to, figuratively, explode again, he answered.

"She's left .. I assume in the circumstances the war games are canceled .. She's more than likely hea ......"

"Shut the HELL up Commander .. If I find out you are ......" Kimmel stopped in mid-sentence, something had obviously suddenly occurred to him, "Computer .. Current location of Admiral Mc7_of_9 ?" he said, burning a hole through Torek with his glare. He was not happy with the reply.

"Admiral Mc7_of_9 is no longer on board."

There was complete silence for almost a full minute .... When Kimmel spoke, it was un-nervingly eerie.

"Get us underway MISTER Torek .. Then get off the Bridge .. Under Starfleet Order 104: Section B, Paragraph 1-A .. I hereby take Command of the USS Raven-B .. Computer .. Note time and Star date."

"Noted." the ship said neutrally.

Carl began to walk toward the turbo-lift, then before Kimmel could speak again, he turned ..

"We're going nowhere Admiral .. Our Chief Engineer is running a Level two diagnostic on our warp core systems .. It will take an hour to complete."

Carl grinned openly, and nodding to Scott, entered the lift ..........




OOC: OK in the Admiral's words ... "The chase is on people !" ... So come on ...

[Carl Torek]

As Admiral Kimmel:

Slamming himself into the Command chair, Kimmel regretted his outburst ... 'But no matter' he thought to himself. He had a job to do. And do it, he would !.

"Mr McLean .. How much time can you shave off that 'diagnostic' Commander Torek suddenly needed to run ?"

"Sir .. I initiated the diagnostic .. Not Commander Torek .. It never occurred to me that given the circumstances we would need to actually move for the time being." Scott replied, trying his best to look innocent.

Daniel chose that moment to step from the turbo-lift .. He watched the scene play out between Admiral Kimmel and the Raven's Chief Engineer .. Then as McLean moved away to check, presumably, on the progress of the diagnostic, Biers decided to talk to the Admiral. hoping, but not expecting to get some answers ..

"Admiral Sir .. May I ask where Commander Torek is ?"

Commander Torek is no longer in Command of this ship ... Councellor ... He is I assume in his quarters .. But I couldn't sware to that." Kimmel said, making it plain by his expression that the situation wasn't, in his opinion, a major concern ..

"Then .. If I am not needed." Biers said hesitantly, glancing at Ramius, who was nodding toward the 'lift hoping the Councellor would take the hint, "I will go to my office .. I have a back-log of work to be getting on with."

Kimmel casually waved toward the door, not even replying to the Councellor's statement .. Biers nodded, then left the Bridge, deep in thought as to the current situation. To the condition of Mc7. To the condition, and conviction of Admiral Kimmel, and above all, it's effects on the crew ..........

[Deleted]

"I can assure you Councillor .. That neither you .. Or the ship are being placed in any danger .. 'IF' you want to report this incident in your logs please do so .. But if there is nothing else I'm certain there are more 'pressing' things for you to be getting on with in your office ....." Daniel was more than shocked by the tone of the XO, he had expected resistance not all out defence before Daniel could think of how to respond to this Carl looked at him "Well ?" Daniel felt backed into a corner, deciding that for now it would be best to back off and hope that this was just an off day “no sir” Daniel noted in his voice a slight tone of submission ‘for now anyway’. With this Daniel returned to his seat on the other side of the bridge and turned to watch Carl closely and he made it obvious he was.

Finally MC arrived on the bridge and began to speak to Carl, after which they left the bridge and entered MC’s Ready room followed shortly behind by the Wolf’s Captain, Daniel watched and waited for them to finish and in the meantime many officers attempted to speak to Daniel over his actions earlier. With nothing more than a shrug most returned to their duties fast enough. After 35 minutes past finally MC returned to the bridge, feeling that he should speak to the admiral at some point to explain his actions earlier standing Daniel waited for MC to finish with Captain Worthing. As MC and Carl took their seats Daniel was about to move from his to speak to the admiral when the turbo lift’s doors opened. Daniel was taken aback by the presence of another admiral and in his shock Daniel felt his mind reach out to Admiral Kimmel and in that moment Daniel felt like he had run himself into a force field, not only did he have his probe blocked but he felt physical pain as it did. Daniel composed himself quickly so as not to let the admiral know what had happened, which Kimmel had not noticed and as the admiral made his way round to the command chair Daniel took a seat to wait for the Admiral to finish ‘I seem to be waiting allot today’.

” Vice Admiral Mc7_of_9, it is the view of Starfleet Command that you present a clear and present danger to the safety and security of not only the USS Raven and her crew, but the to the entire United Federation of Planets. I am hearby relieving you of Command and placing you under armed guard.” Daniel felt that had he been standing he would have fallen down, Daniel was shocked by what he was hearing and confused, ‘why is he a danger, it is not like a counsellor has said he is mentally unfit’ Daniel watched as MC left voluntarily more or less from the bridge and Carl, obviously angry at this decision began to show this to the admirals before they finally left him in charge of the Raven. As the turbo lift’s doors closed the bridge was awash with questions and worries about what was happening, Daniel listened to Carl’s statement before Daniel stood and left the bridge. Daniel had no doubt the rest of the bridge staff probably felt that Daniel had gone to get MC in even greater trouble, but Daniel’s goal now was to get to his office and clear it.

Arriving at his office Daniel quickly had his Assistant clear the office and put all the counsellor’s on a temporary break, when they all left Daniel quickly moved to the computer consol “Computer, please seal this office, then open a secure channel to Starfleet headquarters, Commodore Liam Kevic’s office” Daniel hoped that with all the commotion they would not notice this communication, after a few moments the screen finally changed from the Starfleet seal to a young face that Daniel recognised quite well ”Commander, Daniel, what can I do for you?” Daniel could understand Liam’s reluctance to call him by name on this communication beings as he had it on a secure link and hence must be official “Sorry Commodore ... umm Liam, I know I should not do this but things have gone out of control here and I need to see what is going on. Are you aware that Star Fleet Command has three Admirals on the USS Raven-B and have just removed Admiral MC 7 of 9 from his command for being a threat to the federation, could you shine any light on this?” Daniel felt that it was unlikely that his brother in-law would be able to help but what information he could get would be helpful ”Well Daniel, got yourself a problem, and let me guess, you wanted to remove him and now that the admirals got there first you want him back so you can have the honour” Liam laughs at his own humour “Am I right?” Daniel felt the urge to throw something back at Liam but this was not the time for a family fight “No, can you please tell me if these three Admirals have the blessings of Star Fleet Medical, or if they are getting their opinions from elsewhere?” Daniel watched as Liam’s face turned serious ”well well, if only I had this recorded, I think your sister would get a kick out of this. Well let me see if there is anything I can tell you” Liam looks off screen obviously accessing documents trying to see if there is anything ”Well I can tell you this, they never got Medical’s stamp on removing this Admiral, but his name does pop up from Intelligence quite a bit, seems they want him removed because he is a former Borg drone” Liam fell silent ”I should not have told you that, so keep it to yourself, whatever is happening on that ship, keep your head down and do what the admirals from headquarters say, Commodore Kevic out” with those last words of warning the screen returned to the usual display.

Daniel went over what was said and tried to make sense of it, if these Admiral’s really wanted to remove people for being ex-Borg then they would need medicals support, yet according to Liam they did not have it. Unless Liam was lying which would not be the first time. Deciding his place was the bridge not his office Daniel opened his office and returned to the bridge. As Daniel arrived the atmosphere was very different to the one he had left in, the first thing was that the Wolf was no longer there and the second was that instead of Carl in the command chair there was Kimmel. Walking down to the command chair Daniel felt a little bold “Admiral Sir, may I ask where Commander Torek is?”

<Tag anyone>

(OOC: this was before Carl's post, do not know what happened there, good thing i keep a backup lol)

[Deleted]

Commander Torek is no longer in Command of this ship ... Councellor ... He is I assume in his quarters .. But I couldn't sware to that." Kimmel said, Daniel was mildly shocked at what little compassion or feeling the admiral was showing at this time, "Then .. If I am not needed." Daniel said hesitantly, Daniel shot a glancing at Marko hoping for some help, who was nodding toward the 'lift hoping the Councillor would take the hint’, "I will go to my office .. I have a back-log of work to be getting on with." Daniel knew that was a lie he had dealt with all the reports while he had been on the bridge last, leaving the bridge Daniel hoped this was not causing too much havoc with the rest of the crew.

When Daniel arrived in his office, he was glad no one was around, quickly closing the door he immediately got to work “Computer, please begin Personal log entry” Daniel took a seat as he heard the computers beep telling him to start “Personal log, Star date 9405.05, today we have seen a large amount of shuffling in the command structure of the ship, Admiral MC 7 of 9 is presently on the run from us and Commander Torek has been removed from command. I fear this may have had an impact on the crew that I believe that Kimmel is not thinking of, or I fear even cares about. Liam has given me much to think about, including that Kimmel does not have the backing of medical but it seems that intelligence does, which makes me wonder if this is not an attempt by them to get one back on MC after their last encounter.” Daniel pressed the button on his consol to stop the recording while he got up to look out his window, they still were not moving which he could not decide if it were a good thing or a bad thing. Turning back he pressed the button on his desk to continue his log entry “Kimmel has me worried, I have never had such a reaction to someone’s mind, it felt like hitting a force field while running, no humans mind can be so well sealed, which makes me think that maybe he is not human ... maybe he is a Borg” Daniel giggled slightly at that last statement, he considered removing it but what was the point “All I know is, if he continues the way he is going he is going to cause problems or worse. Computer end log”.

Daniel took his seat then thought carefully about what he was about to do, “Computer, please locate Commander Torek” As the computer confirmed Carls location to be in his quarters Daniel made up his mind hitting his comm. badge Daniel spoke “Commander Torek this is Commander Biers, would you come to my office please” Daniel hoped Carl would listen to him, but just to make sure Daniel knew a few things from a engineering cadet friend of his that taught him how to send a message without the computer recording it, the question was could he remember how to do it.

<Tag Carl>

[jackbaltimore]

The admiral was no longer on board the Raven, The Wolf had made a run for it. This was all happening so fast, the Raven could also not pursue because of a so called level 2 diagnostics test. Jack had a hard time keeping track of it all. And now Admiral Kimmel was in command of the Raven, well he had Assumed command. So many questions and so little time for it to happen in. Jack figured it had been a ploy to give the admiral as much time as possible, but he wasn’t even sure of that.

Jack had had enough of it he didn’t know what was going on. And being the chief of security it was his job. He decided to make his move after the Commander Biers had left the bridge.

“Admiral Kimmel sir” Jack said “May I ask what is going on?”

“No Ensign all you need to know is that as soon as the raven is ready to go we are going to pursue the Wolf and Apprehend admiral mc7” Kimmel’s reply was made matter of fact.

“On what charge sir?” Jack managed to dare the question.

“Presenting a clear and present danger to Starfleet”

Jack was now angry. “Sir I have seen no evidence to support that”

“Ensign I don’t like your tone”

Jack calmed “Sorry sir, but I have seen no danger to Starfleet or even to this ship until you arrived”

“Ensign this is your last warning, when we catch the Wolf you will personally apprehend Mc7. That is all. Unless you want to spend your time in the brig for obstructing the course of justice.”

Jack almost dared to question the admiral one more time. But he knew he would be no good to his crew in the Brig so he just replied “Yes sir”.

Then he moved over to commander Mclean.

“How long till the diagnostics are complete Commander?” Jack asked as innocently as he could.

<tag Mclean>

“That quick huh. How about I throw another spanner in the works? Jack said his voice low.

<Mclean>

[Carl Torek]

"Get us underway MISTER Torek .. Then get off the Bridge .. Under Star fleet Order 104: Section B, Paragraph 1-A .. I hereby take Command of the USS Raven-B .. Computer .. Note time and Star date."

"Noted." the ship said neutrally.

Carl began to walk toward the turbo-lift, then before Kimmel could speak again, he turned ..

"We're going nowhere Admiral .. Our Chief Engineer is running a Level two diagnostic on our warp core systems .. It will take an hour to complete."

Once in his quarters, he changed out of his uniform ... At present, there was no need to continue wearing it. Then checking he had all he needed, he left ...

~~~~~~~~~~

As he walked back from the target, he knew he was only one point behind the Russian champion. Meklov had scored a perfect one hundred and eighty, and Carl was beginning to think he couldn't win .. His bracer, the arm-guard, there to protect the skin of his forearm, was twisting, and he decided to change it before the next round .. Stepping back behind the line, Meklov nodded in appreciation of Carl's score.

"End Four !" the announcer said, and both men prepared to shoot ..

Meklov had the honor, and shot a nine .. Carl drew back the arrow slowly, raising his extended arm above the intended flight-path. As the kiss-knot neared his lips, he slowly lowered his arm until he acquired his target. The instant the knot touched his lips, he released the Easton X10 arrow .... It flew through the air in a perfect parabolic arc, hitting the target, ninety meters away .. The spectators erupted in cheers as they saw a perfect ten register on the score board .. Carl was pleased, the two were now level .. Meklov's next shot scored an eight, a bad shot for the Russian champion, and Carl would take advantage of that lapse. He drew the arrow back ... Slowly, slowly, and controlled his breathing to an almost meditative level. the kiss-knot was centimeters from his lips .....

~~~~~~~~~~

Thirty minutes later..

"Computer .. End program."

Carl re-entered his quarters. He was relaxed and somewhat pleased at the fact he'd managed to beat Meklov in the World Archery Finals .. Carefully placing his bow, quiver, and accessories in their case, he began to get ready to take a shower ..

=^= Commander Torek .. This is Commander Biers .. Would you come to my office please =^=

Carl was slowly loosing patience with the Councellor. He had been picking at the Executive Officers' conduct for hours. But Torek knew he was doing his job, so sighing, he replied ..

=^= Is it important Commander .. I was just about to ...... I'm a little busy at the moment =^=

=^= I do need to speak to you Sir .. But no .. It is not essential we speak right now =^=

=^= Give me ...... Twenty minutes .. I'll meet you in Ten Forward .. Torek out =^=

Checking the chronometer, Carl could see Scott's dead-line approaching fast .. If possible, he hoped the diagnostic would over-run, but that was up to the Engineer .. He hoped Scott would give the Admiral as much a head start as possible ..

Requesting .. 'Water - Hot' .. He stepped into the shower ..........

[Scott McLean]

McLean had made quick work on getting started on the Level Two diagnostic that Commander Torek had ‘requested’. To make the diagnostic that much more effective, McLean ran it in parallel with another ship wide program that he knew would end up butting heads, thus requiring a system restart and re-initialization of both scans. If McLean played his cards right he would not only give Commander Torek an additional half hour, but he would also be able to mask transporter activity during the internal systems restart.

“How long till the diagnostics are complete Commander?” McLean heard from over his shoulder.

At first glance all McLean saw was divisional colors and a single pip on the man’s collar, “I don’t believe I answer to you Ensign.” After a second look McLean realized it was the Raven’s rookie Chief of Security and out of respect for his position onboard replied in an official capacity, “The warp drive should be operational with in two hours.”

“That quick huh. How about I throw another spanner in the works? Jack said his voice low.

“Although my personal opinion of flag officers is low, I suspect even this Admiral would feel another delay would be to much of a coincidence. I wasn’t put in charge of Main Engineering on Starfleet’s newest Galaxy class starship because I was incompetent if you catch my drift.”

Without saying another world to the young ensign, McLean turned form the Engineering console on the bridge to address the Admiral on deck, “Sir, I can’t seem to work out the problems using this console here, I’ll be in Main Engineering if you happen to need me.”

“Make if snappy Commander or I’ll see to it that you never hold another engineering position with in the entire Federation.”

“I will do my best sir,” McLean finished addressing the Admiral and turned to leave the bridge, “Ensign.” McLean nodded to the young Chief of Security before leaving the bridge on his trek down to Main Engineering.

[jackbaltimore]

After realising that Commander Mclean was right, he decided to give up on the idea. So far jack had figured out they were trying to give Admiral Mc7 a head start. But that was it, he wandered if admiral Kimmel was here on star fleet business or if he was here acting on his own using his rank to his own end. All these thoughts were possibilities, jack kept them to himself as he did not want to spend the rest of the trip to earth in the brig.

They still hadn’t reached Mclean’s deadline yet but it was fast approaching. Jack realised that one hour must be enough time, it had to be since there was no way to stall Kimmel any longer. Standing behind his Tactical console he tried to look busy. There was no battle situation and no security issue that needed dealing with, that made his duty even more dull and boring. If they did set out in pursuit of the Wolf soon. It would be the only bit of excitement he would have. Even if they never intended to catch her.

Jack was still trying to piece together why the Admiral was such a wanted man. True he was ex borg but so were a few other officers in Starfleet, but the had been resimulated back into there normal culture and some back into Starfleet itself. Which in Jack’s opinion was always a calculated risk.

Jack mulled over his thoughts, one thing he was definitely sure of, the clock was ticking and time was nearly out.

[Carl Torek]

Carl had showered, and after dressing, read a couple of chapters of a book. But even though he enjoyed reading Stephen King, he just couldn't concentrate ..

Although he'd been banished from the Bridge, there were no standing order's confining him to his quarters. So he put the book down and left. He didn't have anywhere specific in mind, but felt that having the crew see his face would at least prevent some of the more 'imaginative' rumors ..

"Commander ..." Torek turned at the voice, to see McLean approaching.

"Scott."

"You on your way to Engineering ?" McLean asked, the slightest hint of puzzlement on his face, as he obviously knew of the situation on the Bridge.

"Engineering ..." Torek said, looking round, and realizing where he was, "Well no .. But as we're close I'll pop in ..... If you have no objections."

"Be my guest Comma ... Carl." Scott replied, hoping the familiarity would give the Executive Officer a 'hint' as which side he was taking in all this.

The two men walked in silence for a moment, making comments on one subject or another as they were passed by other Officers. But in the corridor leading to Engineering, they found themselves alone, and Carl stopped the Engineer ..

"Right .. I'm taking it that you are opposed to whats happening .. The pursuit of the Admiral etc etc ......"

Scott hesitated .. Looking up and down the corridor before finally speaking ..

As the two entered McLean's department, Carl knew exactly what he needed to do ..........



< tag : Scott / all >

[jackbaltimore]

The bridge was quiet, too quiet. everyone seemed to just be mulling about doing their jobs. Jack just stood there as he had been doing for the past three quaters of an hour. Hoping that by the time they had suppoedly run the diagnostic test of the warp core, the admiral would be out of reach of the Raven.

Jack was not a stupid man, he had not been long onboard the Raven, but he realised that the charges bought against the Admiral were obsurd. And if they were legitimate, why hadn't Kimmel come straight to the Chief of security? Jack wandered. Being the chief of security onboard the Raven, Jack would be the first person to contact in a security issue, not his two junior officers who had placed Mc7 into custody.

Jack stood watching Kimmel for any signs that could be considered unstable, anything, small may it be would be reason enough for Jack to remove Kimmel of his temporary command. Jack couldn't leave the bridge to contact the XO about his concerns it was one, too suspicious and two he couldn't find an excuse, being tactical officer his department was a console on the bridge, and being security chief, he would have to find a security risk to go off chasing. Jack observed Kimmel as he slowly daised away the time in the Captains chair.

The old man looked like he was just about to dose off, but it was just a look, The admiral seemed as alert as any of the young sprogs that had just began their career in starfleet.

"You, tactical officer ensign???" Kimmel waved his hand in a gesture for jack to complete the sentence.

"Baltimore sir" Jack replied in his best bowing to authority tone

"Go and see what's keeping them down there and report back to me" Kimmel spat the order with a suspicious slurr.

"Aye sir" Jack replied and left his console for the turbo lift.

As he entered the turbo lift he thought about what he would say when he reached engineering. He would need to gather as much intell from Commander Mclean as he possibly could, assuming he knew anything at all.

[Deleted]

Kirk had spent the better part of his duty shift pacing back and forth in Main Engineering. He wanted to go introduce himself to Admiral Mc 7 of 9 but knowing Starfleet regulations one just does not walk up to a Flag Officer and make the proverbial small talk. He needed a reason, and the reality of the situation was that he actually had one, but it was more of a conspiracy theory than an actual fact.

“Sir?” One of the junior officers spoke up as Kirk stopped his facing to face the man.

“Yes.”

“Is everything alright? We’ve all notice that you seem a little distracted.”

“I am fine.”

The reality was that he was not fine, and he needed to leave Main Engineering as soon as possible. He finally made up his mind, “Computer, locate Admiral Mc 7 of 9.”

“Admiral Mc 7 of 9 is located in the crew lounge.”

Kirk looked around for a minute and then he was off. Upon entering the lounge Kirk noticed a little bit of a fan fare for the Admiral. He knew it was not everyday that normal line officers and crewmen got a chance to be aboard a ship with an Admiral as well known as Mc 7 of 9.

As Kirk walked close to Mc 7 of 9 he could start to feel the former Borg drones presence in his head. It was the singular link between all drones and former drones that bound them in a similar pool, a collective, and despite how hard they fought to regain their humanity, the reality of the situation was as inevitable as the rotation of the Earth, they will always be Borg.

“Sir,” Kirk spoke in an official tone, “May I join you?”

<Tag Admiral>

[bubblesdelight]

Even from my perched position at my science station I could tell that something odd was going on. I hadn’t gotten the chance to get to know the chief engineer onboard this ship, but I did know other engineers and they always were quicker with repairs, and a lot smarter on when to initiate a ship wide scan. It was almost as if several of the key officers on board are intentionally stalling, but why?

Could this be one of those mutinies we always talked about at the academy? I never really put any stock into it, but all the symptoms are here, officers disobeying orders indirectly while they try to isolate the ship in the vastness of space. Quite talking among key officers aboard the ship without the knowledge of the commanding officer. My God I think I’m the only one who knows! I’ve got to tell the Admiral.

I didn’t know how to approach the admiral. I mean, how many times do you get to walk up to an admiral and tell them that you think there is some dark business conspiring behind his back?

“Admiral Kimmel?” I asked, not fully knowing why I asked instead of stating his name.

“What is it Lieutenant?” He replied without even looking up, which only impressed me because I doubt he was able to see my rank, so how did he recognize me?

“I would like to speak with you in private sir.” I said just before I knelt before him so I could make eye contact with him, “I think there are officers aboard this ship who are conspiring against you for control of the ship.”

(Admiral Kimmer)

[Mc7_of_9]

While Mc7 was chatting to some of the Wolf's crew he suddenly felt a presence within his mind. It was as if a person was standing over his shoulder watching him, although rather than being over his shoulder, he felt them in his mind. They weren't being forceful or trying to detect his thoughts, but they were there. As soon as the man entered the room Mc7 knew he was in the company of someone who had undergone the same pain and suffering of being assimilated into the collective, followed by the heavy weight of guilt over the actions he carried out as a drone.

Sir, May I join you?

Looking up, Mc7 seen that the man he who he had felt was a Commander in Engineering or Security. He also seen that while Mc7 showed no outwards signs of his history as a member of the collective, this man had the remnants of an eye piece just over his left eye.

Of course Commander, please have a seat.

The Admiral said, indicating to the seat next to him at the table.

If you don't mind, the Commander and I have to talk,

Mc7 said to the various other members of the Wolf's crew who had been fretting over him since he entered the crew lounge thirty minutes before.

There were several mutters of course, yes sir, and similar pleasantries, and then the group dispresed throughout the lounge.

I'm Jonathan Kirk Sir, on temporary assignment as the CEO of the Wolf

Nice to meet you Jonathan, I'm Mc7_of_9, Comm..... Mc7 paused, for the first time realising that he was no longer the CO of the Raven.Of the Raven, and I'm happy to drop the Sir's and ranks if you are he finished.

Sounds good to me, Mc7.

So do you know much about what's going on then Jonathan?

The Commander shook his head, indicating that he didn't.

Mc7 slid a P.A.D.D. across the table till it sat in front of Kirk, who picked it up and see the header,

Federation for a Borg Free Starfleet

The header was enough to know where the rest of the literature was going. The Admiral told Kirk all he knew, or had heard through the grape vine, up to and including his being relieved of Command of the Raven only hours before.

I've convinced Captain Worthing to set a course for Earth at maximum warp, and when I get there I intend to go straight to the Admiralty and find out what the hell if going on. If that doesn't work, I'll go to the seat of power in the Federation, even if it means the President herself.

Obviously this group aren't only out to get rid of me, but all former Borg officers who are now serving in Starfleet, so it looks as if we're in this together Jonathan. Obviously you don't need to help, but the more voices we have articulating our argument, the more chance we have of ridding the Federation of this insidious group.

Well Jonathan, what do you say?

[Carl Torek]

As Admiral Kimmel:

Kimmel was glaring at the view-screen. It wasn't making the Raven's diagnostic go any quicker, and every second they sat here, the USS Wolf was getting further and further away. But more importantly, closer to her destination ...

Kimmel had sent a Lieutenant to see what the hell was going on in Engineering. The Chief Engineer, McLean, wasn't going to be too happy with it, but he'd just have to cope .. He wanted answers, and was going to get them !

At the Science Station, Lieutenant Anderson was nervous ... She had heard things, things that wouldn't normally be uttered on a Star ship. Admiral Mc7 and the Executive Officer had both been relieved of duty, and no-one seemed in any hurry to stand by Admiral Kimmel, that needed to change ...

She stepped down to the Command area, nervous at speaking to Kimmel, but needing to inform him of what was happening ..

"Admiral Kimmel."

"What is it Lieutenant ?"

"I would like to speak with you in private sir." she said, leaning forward so she wasn't over-heard, "I think there are officers aboard this ship who are conspiring against you for control of the ship !"

"Oh ......" Kimmel said, patting the Exec's seat, clearly an order to sit.

Less than five minutes later, Kimmel had listened to the Science Officers concerns, and in some part, was beginning to agree with her ..

"Get someone to cover your station Lieutenant .. Take a break in Ten forward." he said, nodding briefly so she understood what he was asking of her, "I want to know everything thats being said .. You understand .. If I need to confine every last Officer to do what I need then I damn well will !" he waved her away and slammed his finger onto the Comms panel ...

=^= Bridge to Engineering =^=

After a short delay, but in Kimmel's mind, much too long, the comm was answered.

=^= McLean =^=

=^= How long before we're underway Mister McLean ? =^=

=^= Twenty .. Twenty five minutes Admiral .. I'm trying to hurry the diagnostic all I can =^=

=^= Is Lieutenant Baltimore there ? =^=

=^= Here Admiral =^= Jack said, not wanting to look at the glaring Chief Engineer.

=^= Can we get moving quicker .. In your opinion ? =^=

Jack knew exactly what the Admiral was saying, and so, it seemed, did the rest of Engineering. Kimmel was all but undermining McLean in his paranoia, and Scott knew it.

"If you can do ANY better MISTER Baltimore then feel free !" he said, placing a PADD on the work station in front of him, "I'll be in my office catching up on reports."

Jack watched him walk off, and felt the disdain coming from the others in the room. He reddened, and finally replied ..

=^= No .. Admiral .. It can't be done any faster than Commander McLean is doing it =^=

The Comm went dead ...

On the Bridge, Kimmel was watching everyone like the proverbial hawk, for any signs of uprising ..........

[Deleted]

USS Wolf

Kirk sat looking at the PADD that Mc7 had slid him. The headline on the portable device was something the Chief Engineer had seen before; it was one of the reasons why he had taken the hasty transfer from the USS Scavenger when it returned to port.

“Well Jonathan, what do you say?”

“I am in,” Kirk said as he handed back the PADD, “Whatever you need I will be there.”

The two sat in silence for a moment. It was not the awkward kind of silence but it was a tactical silence, each officer going back on their own experiences and training to come up with a viable approach to the problem. The trouble was that this was a movement, an idea that was growing with in the Federation and to Kirk’s knowledge there was only one person who could squash this movement, the President.

“Here is the problem,” Kirk stated, “There is some validity to this movement. Several weeks ago the USS Daytonville came under attack from a Borg scout ship, most likely a pyramid. They fired a weapon at the Daytonville that caused no damage to either the shields, ships systems or the hull. However, a single officer who showed no signs of being a former Borg drone suddenly was reactivated and began to assimilate those around him in the botany department. If we are to go to the top we need to find some countermeasure for this weapon. I do not know about you but I have fought for years to regain my humanity, I do not wish it to be stripped away because of the fear of assimilation from with in.”

<Tag Mc7>

[Scott McLean]

=^= Can we get moving quicker .. In your opinion ? =^=

“Ensign Baltimore is a security officer Admiral, he’s not qualified to make such an estimate.” McLean said, but it he quickly found out that the Admiral wasn’t listening to anything he said.

The two officers just looked at each other for a moment and before long Baltimore again spoke up, =^= No .. Admiral .. It can't be done any faster than Commander McLean is doing it =^=

McLean nodded in appreciation to the young security officer in a small thanks for his help, “If anybody needs me I’ll be up in Ten Forward.” McLean announced to the group. He began to walk off when he stopped to speak to his assistant, “Let me know the second the diagnostic ends.”

“Sure Chief.”

McLean walked alone until he suddenly ran into Commander Torek. At first he wasn’t sure how he should approach the now relieved of duty officer, but Torek made it quit clear in his first couple of sentences.

After a brief conversation they pulled to the side of the corridor and spoke privately as fellow crew members passed on by, "Right ... I'm taking it that you are opposed to what’s happening .. The pursuit of the Admiral etc etc ......"

McLean took a moment to answer, looking both ways to make sure the coast was clear, “Yes I am. I don’t see a point to all this madness, and in all honestly I’m starting to get sick of a certain Flag Officer and his constant pressing. I can only delay the inevitable for so long Carl, but eventually we are going to get underway and we will end up catching the USS Wolf, it’s just a matter of time.”

<Tag Torek>

[markoramius]

Marko had been in sickbay when the Raven’s most recent mission had gotten underway. Suffering from stress, the young Commander had been told to take it easy and had been easing himself back into his shifts aboard the Raven. That was until today, his computer terminal in his quarters chimed to signal a new message.

The message was from an Admiral Ried, a friend of his fathers, it was entitled 'A message from the Federation for a Borg Free Starfleet'. Marko was sceptical at first, but the more he read the more it all seemed to make sense. Unsure of whether his reaction was one of hatred for the Borg or that of a genuine fear for the future of the Federation. The message also contained a report detailing an incident involving the USS Daytonville in which a former borg drone had seemingly been reactivated and began to assimilate the crew of the Daytonville. The message ended giving Marko specific instructions to support Admiral Kimmel, who would be assuming control of the USS Raven. Admiral Mc and Commander Torek would be relieved of duty and Marko’s orders were to support Admiral Kimmel.

Marko hauled himself from the computer terminal and to the replicator and ordered a synthehol to steady his nerves. He felt loyalty to the Captain and the First Officer but it was clear there was an overwhelming threat to the Federation.

Marko stepped onto the Bridge after a short turbolift journey and saw the unfamiliar figure of Admiral Kimmel. Marko’s presence had not gone unnoticed as the duty Ops Officer gave him a sideways glance as Marko dismissed him taking up his familiar Ops Station. The Admiral had also noticed him.

“Commander Marko Ramius, Chief Operations Office reporting for duty.”

Marko said quite matter of factly, Kimmel seemed to look Marko up and down as Marko offered his hand to the Admiral.

(Tag Admiral Kimmel)

As Admiral Kimmel somewhat reluctantly accepted Marko's hand, Marko lent over and spoke to the Admiral privately.

"I would just like you to know that you have my full support Admiral. I believe what we are doing is not only necessary but vital to the future and very survival of the Federation."

(Tag Admiral Kimmel)

Marko had never met or heard of this Admiral Kimmel before but he was going to support him fully. This new borg threat could undermine the entire Federation and Earth and Marko was intent on preventing it.

[Carl Torek]

Carl had been wandering the corridors for a short time. Some Officers nodded, one or two seemed unsure how to react to the relieved Exec'. He didn't mind, given the circumstances, he was happy for the privacy.

Turning a corner, he all but collided with Commander McLean ..

"Oh sorry .. Hello Scott .. Taking a break ?"

Scott smiled, at least he knew where he stood with Torek, as he was edged toward a bulkhead ..

"Right ... I'm taking it that you are opposed to what’s happening .. The pursuit of the Admiral etc etc"

"Yes I am .. I don’t see a point to all this madness and in all honestly I’m starting to get sick of a certain Flag Officer and his constant pressing .. I can only delay the inevitable for so long Carl, but eventually we are going to get underway and we will end up catching the USS Wolf .. It’s just a matter of time." Scott said, shrugging.

"Is there any way we can reduce the Raven's maximum warp so we can't catch the Wolf before her arrival at Earth ?"

The Engineer shrugged again, remaining silent as two crewmen passed ...

"There are 'several' ways I could do it yes .. None that any one of my Engineering team couldn't figure out in minutes unless I damage some vital part beyond repair .. But either way none that would keep me out of the Brig and facing a Court-Martial once we do reach Earth."

Both men fell silent again as Lieutenant Anderson passed.

"All we need is to give Mc7 and the Wolf time to reach Earth ......" Carl said, frustrated.

"I was on my way to Ten Forward .. Care to join me ?" Scott said, "We can mull the issue over and see what we get."

"How long before we can get underway ?"

"Twenty .. No fifteen minutes .."

"If I'm done in Star fleet maybe I should eject the warp core." Torek said, a grin forming on his face.

"That would require two Command Officers or one with the help of one of my staff .. But with all due respect Carl .. It's not the answer." Scott said, a wry grin forming at the suggestion, "Let's get that drink .. While we still can." ..........

[Carl Torek]

As Admiral Kimmel:

A dull ache was making it's presence felt in Kimmel's left hand ... Looking down, he could see he was clutching the armrest with such force his hand had lost most of it's blood. Confused for a second, Kimmel let his grip ease, and flexed his fingers to get some circulation back ... He was still wondering about his hand when someone stepped in front of him ..

"Commander Marko Ramius .. Chief Operations Officer .. Reporting for duty Sir." Kimmel looked Ramius up and down for a moment, pondering this new arrival, so Marko continued, "I would just like you to know that you have my full support Admiral .. I believe what we are doing is not only necessary but vital to the future and very survival of the Federation."

"Where have you been since we left Star base Bellicose Commander ?"

"Sick-bay Sir." Ramius said, then lowering his voice, "I had been suffering from stress Admiral .. But I am fit to return to duty now .. You could check with Doctor MacGregor Sir."

"I am fully aware of what I can do Commander .. So you are siding with me against your Commanding Officer ?"

"As I stated Admiral .. But my 'loyally' to Admiral Mc7 is not in question and neither is my loyalty to the Federation."

"We will just have to see .. Won't we Mister Ramius ......" Kimmel said, his eyes never leaving the Commanders' ...

"With your permission Admiral .. I'll take my station."

Kimmel merely waved Ramius away.

"Sir .." Marko said, "I have checked with Engineering .. We will have warp capability in fifteen minutes."

"...... Fifteen minutes ......" Kimmel whispered ..........

[Scott McLean]

McLean and Torek had tossed back several drinks during course of their private conversation. At first the only strong logical ideas flowed from their lips, but after exhausting all the usual routines for keeping a ship out of warp the outright silly ideas began to spring to life as the liquor took its effect on the two men.

“I think we’re thinking about this entirely wrong,” McLean said chucking a little to himself as he realized how he must have sounded.

“You alright doing this?” Carl asked in a genuine tone.

McLean knew what the former First Officer was referring to, and by all rights they always said the first drink off the wagon was the one that led back down the path of self-destruction. Being an intellectual, McLean disregarded those warning form men or women whom had less self control then he thought he had. This was different however, he wasn’t trying to run and hide from something, he was just trying to unwind and it felt like something a normal person would do.

“I’m fine.” McLean replied with his traditional grin. It was an expression that could mean a multitude of things, but in this moment it was a look of confidence.

“Good, cause I don’t wan to have to-“

“I’ve got it!” McLean interrupted Carl at loud whisper.

“What?”

“Come with me.” McLean said rushing past a young brown haired science officer who had taken notice to his semi-loud excitement.

The two officers found their way back down to Main Engineering and back to a specific section that routed all the systems sensors.

“Okay,” McLean started in with his technical explanation of what he had in mind, “A Galaxy Class starship is a big ship, and because of that we have several highly specialized departments to deal with specific problems. Mechanical, software, ect. Well one thing we can do from here is calibration.” McLean said with a big smile on his face by this point. He was ramping up for the big finale of this speech and by the look on Carl’s face he could tell he too was thinking the same thing.

“So you’re saying we could mask out the Wolf’s warp signature by recalibrating the sensors.”

“Exactly,” McLean said with child like excitement, “The warp signature is specific to each ship to help identify it from the thousands of other ships out there. What we can do is re-calibrate the sensors and place this frequency under the ‘background’ radiation section.” McLean pointed to a diagram on the screen. It was a horizontal graph with wave lines high at the top and dotted line going through the bottom third, “That,” McLean said pointing at the dotted line, “Is the limiter. Below that is background radiation we really don’t need to consider. What we can do is raise the limiter to include the Wolf’s warp signature.” McLean illustrated this point by bringing his finger up high on the chart to where about the Wolf would show up.

“There is one problem.” McLean said as he realized it looking at the chart.

“There always is.” Carl joked, “What’s the problem?”

“If we do this, we are going to filter out a lot of information we need to make it back in one piece. Warp signatures are very high because of the power that is emitted during matter anti-matter annihilation. There is a chance that we could run into something out here.”

“That’s true, but what about the active sensors?”

McLean privately cursed himself out for not thinking about those, but after a moment of thinking through the fog of inebriation he had his answer for the Commander, “Right now all we have to go on is the warp signature. If it suddenly disappears then we have no way of knowing which way they went, or if they changed course.”

“How often do these sensors need calibration?”

“Not often,” McLean said, “But this is a shake down cruise, they should be doing another one with in the hour.”

“Make your adjustments and be sure they can’t trace it back here.” Carl said.

“I’m on it.” McLean replied.

[Carl Torek]

As Admiral Kimmel:

"Sir .." Ramius said, "Engineering has informed me that the diagnostic is complete."

"Why didn't Commander McLean inform me himself ?" Kimmel said, loosing patience by the second with the Raven's Officers.

"He went off duty Sir .. The duty Engineering Officer informed me of the ships readiness."

"Helm .. You still have the Wolf's warp signature ? ....." getting confirmation, he gave the order he'd been waiting for, "Maximum warp .. Follow that warp signature until we're nudging their nacelles !"

"Aye Sir." The Navigation Officer said, as she inputted the information required, then the Raven leapt forward, and rotating through eighty degrees as she turned to her new heading, arrowed forward toward her prey ..

"What's our distance from the Wolf now ?"

"We're curren ......" the Navigation Officer began, then fell silent, confused at the readings before her, as a Star ship couldn't simply 'vanish' ...

"WELL ?" Kimmel demanded.

"Sir .. I've lost her .. She was there a second ago I know she was .. But now there's no sign of the Wolf .. I can't understand it .. I'm not getting a single warp signature" she said, now totally confused, not to say worried.

"FIND IT ...... NOW !"

"Sir .. We need to .. Need to reduce speed .. At this rate we could fly straight through another Star ship before our sensors could detect it .. There's got to be some sort of glitch in the system !" she muttered.

"Admiral." Ramius said from Opps, "There was a full system check less than ten minutes ago as part of the shake-down checks .. There was nothi ......"

"Could the system be tampered with ?" Kimmel interrupted.

"Well ......" Marko thought for a moment, "It could yes .. But the only person capable of doing it without detection would be the Chief Engineer I think .. Certainly none of the Engin ......"

"COMPUTER .. Location of Commander McLean !" Kimmel all but shouted.

"Commander McLean is currently in Ten forward."

"It's possible it's just a system hiccup .. It happens." Ramius said, shrugging.

"Sir .. Our speed ?" the Navigation Officer prompted, "I would suggest warp three until we can resol ......"

"NO !!! ......" Kimmel yelled, but he had the presence of mind to know that they were right, why destroy themselves when it was the Borg he was after, "OK .. Reduce speed to warp Four !" he said, defying anyone to question him again.

"Aye Sir .. Warp four."

"And FIX THAT SYSTEM." Kimmel said, storming from the Bridge to the ready room ...

Watching the Admiral leave the Bridge, Marko wondered if in fact the Engineer, and worryingly, the Exec' .. Could have sabotaged the Raven ..........

[Carl Torek]

Making their way back to Ten Forward without being seen, both McLean and Torek were totally conscious of what they were doing.

It could, and most certainly would, if detected, see them both facing Court-Martial, and being thrown in prison for the foreseeable future.

Nearing their goal, McLean stopped and accessed a manual computer terminal, while Torek watched the doors to Ten Forward .. Less than thirty seconds later, Scott tapped the Exec', and checking the room was almost empty, both men slipped in un-noticed, and moved quietly to a corner table, where their drinks were still waiting ..

Talking casually, they watched as the Raven jumped to high warp. Only to reduce speed moments later .. Scott picked up his drink and discretely lifted it to Carl, who returned the gesture.

"Cheers." Scott said in almost a whisper.

"Cheers." Carl replied.

According to the ships' log, neither man had left Ten Forward for over thirty minutes ..........



< tag : ALL ! >