Mission 17: Beacon Home

[Carl Torek]

Synopsis:

The ship is on a medical supply run to the Lycarr System’s seventh planet. On reaching the system, they are attached by a rogue trading alliance. During the battle, equipment being transported by the alliance vessels exploded. The matter/anti-matter explosion caused a miniscule rupture in space that the Raven falls into.

The alliance vessels that survived also fall through the rupture, and the Raven begins a running battle for their survival. Raven manages to find an obscure Star system, Dua Ceti, on long range scanners, that had until then remained uncharted, but it was enough of a beacon to guide the Raven home. Once defeated, the remaining alliance ships decided to remain in this sector of space.

[Carl Torek]

"Bring us round to two three zero mark four zero." Carl ordered watching the alliance ships, "Target the lead vessels weapons systems."

"Bringing us round now." Andae said, moving the dead Lieutenant from the Helm and placing her lifeless body as gently, but quickly as possible on the deck.

"We have a lock Captain." Jamison said, "Firing now !"

The beam of pure energy lanced across the distance between the two vessels in a fraction of a second. It cut through the hull plating and slammed into the ship's weapons systems. It also left a fifteen meter tear in the ship's hull. Open to space, the explosive decompression wrought havoc .. Their engines began to falter, the core suffering damage. Inertial dampers went off-line and the ship began a series of uncontrollable spins.

"Target the second ship." Carl ordered.

"Locked."

"Fire !" Carl said, and almost smiled when that ship too, came to a stop and floated dead in space.

"Get us the hell out of here Commander." Carl said.

The Raven jumped to warp ... Torek knew he had been lucky ... This was the third attack by the so called 'Trading Alliance' ship's, and he knew that if they couldn't get home and get help, they couldn't hope to win every battle.

"Sir ..." the Science Officer said, "... I'm not one hundred percent sure, well the sensors aren't that is, but I'm sure I've found the Dua Ceti Star System on long-range scanners."

"But thats ......" Andae began to say, but fell silent, as everyone on the Bridge knew how far from home the system was .. But nevertheless, it was the one recognizable thing in this region of space, and would provide them with a beacon home ..........

[Carl Torek]

*** NINETY SIX HOURS EARLIER ***

"Sir." Marcus said, "I’ve been informed by Chief Stone that all our cargo is aboard and we're, in his words, 'good to go' Captain.

"Thank you Jake. What about the Dock master and our clearances ?"

"Thirty minutes he say's. He's got the USS Tripoli to dock then we're next out."

Carl recalled the Tripoli, she was the twenty fourth century version of a twentieth century vessel. The Queen Mary II, a luxury liner, catering for the 'then' rich and famous. He didn’t like the idea of a private consortium having precedence over a Star fleet vessel, but what the heck, it gave his crew breathing space to ensure they were ready to leave.

"Andae, have the senior staff in the observation lounge in fifteen minutes. I'll be in my ready room."

"Aye Sir." The Raven’s new Executive Officer said.

Carl sat in his ready room running through the certification reports on the Ravens repair and refit, after their encounter with the Vackall in the Andromeda Galaxy. It had taken Star fleet engineering almost two months to get the Galaxy Class vessel repaired, and he knew that the Vesuvius had suffered much worse, he often thought about Challenger too, wondering how they were faring.

He won’t forget the meeting on Star base forty seven with Commodore Sonak in a hurry. Though she praised his actions in trying to destroy the Vackall mother ship, she was less than complimentary about the damage to her own vessel. He was still to read her final report on the incident.

The door chime sounded ...

"Come."

"Sir. The senior staff is in the observation lounge as requested." Commander Blakus said.

He outlined their mission, and informed them they would make a rendezvous with the USS Michael Collins, who will take Admiral Mc7_of_9 to SB Assailant.

Taking a breath, Carl stood .. It was finally time to take the leap from Acting Commanding Officer, to USS Raven-B Captain ..

Returning to the Bridge with his Staff, he made one final check that everything was ready ..



"Take us out Commander." He said to Andae with a smile ..........

[Deleted]

After the Senior Staff meeting, Will stepped up to his station and checked things over. Everything appeared to be fine at the moment. He really hadn't expected anything other wise. It seemed like a simple, straight forward mission.

"Sir. With your permission, I would like to get my personnel informed of the mission and finish up some security business while it is slow and we have the time." he said, looking at he Captain.

[Deleted]

Daniel woke suddenly and virtually jumped out of bed, unsure what had woken him he looked around his quarters trying to find the source for his sharp return to reality when he could not work it out h assumed it was the person next to him and feel back asleep . . . Daniel woke again to the urgent sound of Evan’s voice “whaaaaatt ... what is it?” Daniel did not know what the time was but he knew it must not have been long since he was woken last “what is it ... well did you not want to be up at 0800 hours, well it is almost 1000 hours.” Daniel quickly jumped up and checked the time as if Evan would lie about the time “Oh not today, we are leaving today and knowing our new Captain he will call the senior staff meeting soon, why did you not wake me up sooner” Daniel started yawning as he tried to get past Evan to get to the shower. “Well, for one you looked to peaceful for me to wake you, second i like watching you rush around, and third the XO called for you to be in the observation lounge in ...” Evan checks the clock before continuing “in 6 minutes” Daniel was stuck between horror that Evan had not woken him sooner, that the meeting was in 6 minutes and annoyed that Evan enjoyed making him rush. “Well you can go to my office and sort out the routers for the department and i want them in 10 minutes or you can spend tonight sleeping elsewhere” Daniel would never keep that threat but he had to do something to get Evan back. “okay okay, don’t stress yourself out. I’ve been in the shower already so i don’t need it after you, your uniform is all ready for you to put on and i have already sorted most of the departmental paperwork yesterday” Daniel walked over to Evan and hugged him “what would i do without you” Daniel kissed Evan before running into the shower, Evan walked to the doorway “probably have got to the meeting by now but with half your paperwork still waiting to be done” Daniel laughed as he entered the shower.

Daniel was happier when he was in his uniform, Evan had changed while he was in the shower and had taken great pleasure watching him try and change quickly. “Evan, could you send me any files for the XO while i am in the meeting, include the list of personnel that have to see a counsellor periodically, i hope Carl will have handed the files to ah ummm ah ...” “Andae, god your memory for names is getting worse, Commander Blakus, remember you out rank him by a pip” Daniel looked at Evan and smiled “I know i outrank our new XO, but while on the bridge it doesn’t matter much, but thanks for helping with the name, i think i would have forgotten it in the meeting otherwise.” Daniel adjusted his uniform while giving Evan a look “oh give it up, let me” Evan moved from his chair to help straighten the pips on Daniel’s collar, Daniel liked that Evan was doing this, he could never seem to get his rank on straight since he was promoted above lieutenant. “Thanks Evan, right i best run to the bridge or i will be so late i will be lucky not to need a new uniform after the phasser fire” both Evan and Daniel laughed at the thought of the senior staff shooting a counsellor, “Well i am sure they will forgive you, though they would forgive you better if they knew i had proposed to you” Daniel gave Evan a look “i told the XO by accident, and i do not want to look like some attention seeking idiot, you might like attention but i only like it from you” Daniel knew Evan wanted everyone to know, but Daniel was holding him back. After a quick kiss and hug Daniel darted out the door and made his way to the bridge.

Daniel arrived on the bridge to find it mostly empty of senior staff, but as he was already 10 minutes late they were most likely in the briefing. Walking into the observation lounge and quickly looked around the room to confirm everyone was there “Sorry guys, sirs, i got a little delayed” quickly taking his seat next to the CMO Daniel listened to the rest of the briefing
...
Daniel was happy with the idea of a medical mission, less chance of being shot, as the senior staff started leaving the briefing heading to their stations Daniel noted that his Padd had received the files he asked for. Moving to intercept the XO before he got onto the bridge Daniel spoke “Commander, here is my departments report, there are several officers noted in that report who are still working but must see either myself or another of my staff periodically as listed, so could you ensure they can do so. And i would like to apologise again for crashing into you the other day” Daniel felt really bad about it, he knew how much people liked to hold on to some level of dignity and being sent to the ground by a counsellor is not exactly the best way to do that.

<Tag Blakus>

Moving off the bridge Daniel returned to his office to begin working now that they were leaving the base the families on board would soon need looking after again.

[Andae Blakus]

Andae listened to Torek give the briefing, and was momentarily glad that it wasn't him that had to give it. But as it turned out, the mission was fairly simple. It was then that he had to check himself. Since when was any mission simple, and straightforward? Not once had a mission gone to plan in Blakus's Starfleet career so far. Perhaps this would be a change though, the laws of averages were bound to work in their favour eventually, weren't they?

The senior staff were dismissed from the briefing room and apart from Captain Torek Blakus was the last out. Counsellor Biers stopped him by the bridge entrance.

“Commander, here is my departments report, there are several officers noted in that report who are still working but must see either myself or another of my staff periodically as listed, so could you ensure they can do so. And i would like to apologise again for crashing into you the other day”

Blakus took the PADD handed to him by the Counsellor, "Thank you Counsellor, and don't worry about that incident." Blakus gave a slight chuckle. He had long since stopped worrying about the collision with Biers from two days ago. Satisfied that the Counsellor's apologetic look was appeased, he studied the PADD. More work..

The XO heard the swish of the briefing room door, and looked around to see Captain Torek emerge. After looking around at the bridge crew he smiled at Blakus.

"Take us out Commander." He said to him.

Raising an eyebrow slightly and grinning in return, Blakus swung into his chair beside Captain Torek's and addressed the helm. "Lieutenant, take us out of spacedock... He was sure he could see the officer at the helm tense up in anticipation Blakus ordering something like 'quarter-impulse'. It was surely what was expected of a brand new XO, to begin their tenure with a rebellious act rather than sticking to procedure.

"... Full thrusters." Blakus finished.

"Aye sir," said the officer at the helm. She worked the controls, bringing the Impulse engines up to full power, but not utilising the Space-Time Driver coils (built into every Impulse drive) that would accelerate the Raven to relativistic velocities.

"Never a good idea in Spacedock, sir," Blakus said to Torek, who had settled in the Captain's chair. "Especially with the Section Admiral on station.." he laughed.

With that, the Raven powered her way out of Starbase 47, and back out to the stars...

[Carl Torek]

Carl entered the Bridge and took his seat. He had asked the Admiral to take the Center seat for the trip to Star base Assailant, but Mc had declined the invitation, choosing to be on the Bridge as they left Star base forty seven, but as a 'passenger' only.

Glancing from his new Executive Officer to Admiral Mc7, he grinned, a little nervously if truth be known, but he hoped it didn't show in his expression.

"Take us out Commander."

"Lieutenant, take us out of space-dock ..." Andae said, "... Full thrusters." the Exec' said, then commented on his cautiousness with the Section Admiral being home.

This got a grin from several of the Bridge staff and Carl glanced at Mc, who made the slightest nod of approval in Torek's choice of Officer for his former role.

Hours later, they approached Star base Assailant, and Carl accompanied Admiral Mc7 to his quarters to pick up his bags. They talked about several things, but mainly the Raven. reminiscing about their time, or rather Mc's time on the ship he'd called home for a long time.

As they approached the transporter room, Carl was un-surprised to see the corridors lined with crew members.

The Senior Staff were assembled in the transporter room itself, and Carl felt a tightening in his throat, knowing his friend, and mentor, was moving on.

"Admiral on Deck !" Commander Blakus said, instantly making all snap to attention ..

Mc looked at the assembled faces, memories flooding back, both good and bad, 'but mostly good' he thought to himself with a wry smile.

"Admiral ..." Carl began, looking round the gathered Officers, "I'm sure I can speak for everyone who has served with you on the Raven, when I say we are sorry to see you leave the ship. We hope you have every success on Assailant."

Several murmurs of agreement were heard, and Mc looked at his former crew with deep appreciation and caring. This was, after all, his 'family' and he was leaving them behind. But everyone knew he would be welcomed back aboard the Raven anytime.

Mc nodded, then silently stepped onto the transporter pad ..

Taking almost a full two minutes to look at each of his friends, and former Officers in turn, he finally looked at Torek ..

"Take care of her ... Captain."

"I will do my best Sir." Carl said, the silent nod between the two men conveying more than words could have ever said, "Transporter Chief ......"

"ATTENT .. TION !" Blakus ordered. snapping all present to order.

"...... Transport." Carl finished ...

Mc vanished from the pad, and seconds later, the Chief confirmed his arrival on Assailant .. Andae dismissed everyone back to duties, then stood silently behind his Commanding Officer.

Torek took almost a full minute, before turning to his Exec' ..

"Set course for the Lycarr System Commander ... Warp five ... I'll be in my quarters if needed."

"Aye .... Sir." Andae said, watching Torek walk out of the transporter room ..........




OK everyone .. .. The mission has begun .. I hope you all enjoy our first outing together.

Carl ...

[Deleted]

Will was standing in the hall with all the others during the "ceremony" of the Admiral leaving. Will hadn't had the chance to serve with the Admiral but he could feel the bond between him and the rest of the crew.

"This is the kind of feeling i'm looking for." he thought. "The feeling of belonging. Of family."

After the Admiral departed, Will went to the Security office. He had yet to still choose an assitant and wanted to take the down time to go over all the security staffs records to see who needed what updated.

"Nothing like an easy delivery mission to get things caught up." he mused.

[Andae Blakus]

Torek walked slowly from the transporter room under Blakus's inquisitive gaze. The XO had underestimated how much of a bond had existed between the Vice-Admiral and his crew, Captain Torek was obviously going to need time to adapt and move on. Blakus could relate to that; both the CO and XO of the Raven were in periods of change.

Blakus realised that he was now alone in the transporter room, even the transporter operator had left the room to deal with other matters. Accompanied only by the ever-present background hum of the ship, Blakus's left hand went instinctively to his right arm. Although it was now fully healed, according to the Doctors on Starbase 47, he was sure he could feel the slightest tingling from time to time. The foot-long gash that had been rent open along the inside of his forearm had caused him excruciating pain, pain which, he was sure he hadn't fully felt. How very close to death he had come! Flushed out of the USS Victory through the hull breach made by the exploding shuttle, Blakus knew how lucky he had been.

The turbolift doors opened and Blakus stepped back on to the bridge of the Raven. He took a seat without thinking about it and then realised, to his pleasure, that he was sitting in the Captain's chair. He leant forward with a hand on his knee and the other in his lap, not wishing to be seen as some chair-'hedonist'. "Helm, set a course for Lycarr Seven, Warp five."

"Aye, sir." The male Ensign at the helm worked his controls and the Raven jumped back to Warp speed, en route to Lycarr. As he watched the forward viewscreen Blakus thought of how things must be in Engineering. Commander Scott McLean, or whomever was on duty would be monitoring the warp engines' performance, which was necessary after all the refitting and repairs done to the ship. Blakus fought off the temptation to go down there, he wasn't a CEO anymore, even if he was still an engineer. All on due time... he thought.

"Mister Marcus, when we enter sensor range begin general scans of the Lycarr system, if the situation changes on Lycarr VII we may need to increase speed to deliver these supplies. Doubtless we will contact them anyway for an update. In the meantime you can compile an inventory on the medical supplies, make sure we have everything, coordinate with Doctor MacGregor if you need to."

<Tag Marcus>

Blakus couldn't resist, =/\=First Officer to Engineering. How are the warp engines performing, have the SB four-seven staff done a good job?=/\=
Extra speed may be needed... Blakus justified the question to himself.

<Tag McLean>

[Deleted]

Daniel was glad that his department was very good at their jobs, since departing Star Base all of his staff had begun their duties to the families that were on the Raven. Most never really needed a counsellor but at the moment they acted more as activity organisers. Daniel picked up the next Padd to check that the few officers on counselling had appointments and who they were having them with, Daniel knew Evan would have done this but it was something to do. “Evan, why has Ensign Drassell not got a appointment this week?” Daniel spotted the name was missing from the list, having been there for almost a month now since his wife had a miscarriage, Evan looked up from his novel to give Daniel a look “Ummm remember, i took him off the books last week.” Daniel looked back at the list to hide his confusion, ‘why did i forget that’ “Sorry Evan, i must have forgotten” Daniel looked up and Evan was shaking his head “Daniel are you ok? This is like the fifth thing you have forgotten this week, should i be considering talking to the doctor to have you checked out?” Daniel put down his Padd and smiled at him, “i think i am forgetting half of that stuff because you are telling me these things while i am distracted” Daniel did not need to say anymore as Evan burst out laughing “Okay okay, i will try to tell you things more when you are not distracted, but i think you should go and rest more” Daniel knew what Evan was getting at “Right, i will go to my quarters the moment the Admiral is sent off” Daniel waited for Evan to nod before he returned to his paper work.

A few hours later Daniel was waiting in the transporter room for the admiral to enter so he could depart, Daniel had to admit to himself that he had not had much time to serve with the Admiral but he knew how much the crew liked him and how large the shoes Carl was now having to fill. Daniel was speaking to the Transport Chief as word came down that the admiral was on his way, taking his position Daniel waited for the admiral to arrive. “Admiral on Deck !" As Daniel heard their new XO say this he was already jumping to attention. Daniel looked down the line to see Admiral MC and Carl entering the transporter room. "Admiral ..." Carl began, looking round the gathered Officers, "I'm sure I can speak for everyone who has served with you on the Raven, when I say we are sorry to see you leave the ship. We hope you have every success on Assailant." Daniel did agree that everyone gathered did not want to see the admiral leave, but as Daniel heard it, it was a wise career move for the Admiral. "ATTENT .. TION !" caught off guard by the XO’s words Daniel jumped, mildly embarrassed Daniel quickly returned to full attention and tried to avoid looking the XO in the eye. As the admiral beamed away and the XO dismissed them Daniel quickly went for the door to avoid Andae. Remembering what he had said to Evan Daniel made his way to his quarters, when he arrived he was not surprised to find Evan waiting for him “Checking up on me?” Daniel opened the door and walked in, intending to rest “Normally i would have said yes, but i need you to look over this report and confirm my recommendation before i send it to Commander Blakus and Lieutenant Marcus.” Daniel took the Padd and gave it a look over, “okay, take her off duty and get her in for a counselling session, now get out so i can get some rest” Evan took the Padd and did not put up a fight about having to go, Daniel went to his bed and quickly feel asleep.

[Scott McLean]

McLean sat in his quarters staring at the data PADD that Dr. Macgregor had given him. It contained all the information a full bio scan would reveal about somebody, most importantly their DNA. McLean hated to admit it to himself but the DNA Starfleet had on Stephanie matched perfectly with the DNA they had taken today. This was Stephanie, it wasn’t a clone or a hologram, but it was actually her. But how was that possible? McLean thought, his mind doing everything but coming up with a logical answer.

He should have been on the bridge to help send off the Raven with her new Captain and Executive officer. Despite the fact that he had remained promotion less in the last several years there was still a distinct honor of being the longest serving senior staff member aboard a starship. It set a bar that Admirals and Captains alike wanted their crew to strive for, namely ships loyalty.

“First Officer to Engineering. How are the warp engines performing, have the SB four-seven staff done a good job?” McLean had Main Engineering patch all COM directed at him to his quarters, along with a full readout of the engine output. Being an officer who has been around the proverbial block McLean knew a thing or two about how new officers, especially Executive officers established their authority.

“This is Commander McLean,” he said as he got up from his couch to view the data on his console’s screen, “Engine output is perfect, power fluctuations are nominal and with in specifications. I’ll send my full report up to the bridge with in the hour. McLean out.”

The COM channel closed and McLean returned to his couch, PADD in hand. He knew he couldn’t stew about this for very long, especially after he reacted when he found out Stephanie was dead. Shouldn’t I feel happy? McLean scolded himself for the sullen feelings he was having about the sudden reincarnation of his wife.

Not knowing or trusting this Stephanie, McLean had asked Carl if Vanessa could stay with him for a while. Even though the Raven was out on a mission he still couldn’t risk leaving Vanessa to continue her normal routines, especially with some of the newest forms of transporter technology that they have seen recently. The last thing McLean would want is for his daughter to suddenly vanish form the safety of this Galaxy Class starship.

“McLean to Main Engineering.”

”This is Roberts, go ahead Chief.”

“Roberts, could you have the section reports ready to go? I’m going to go through them before the Alpha Crew goes off duty.”

“Sure thing Chief. Do you want me to bring them up to you?”

“No. I’ll be coming down to look at them. Just leave them in my office.”

“They’ll be here for you.”

“Thanks Roberts. McLean out.”

[jakemarcus]

"Mister Marcus, when we enter sensor range begin general scans of the Lycarr system, if the situation changes on Lycarr VII we may need to increase speed to deliver these supplies. Doubtless we will contact them anyway for an update. In the meantime you can compile an inventory on the medical supplies, make sure we have everything, coordinate with Doctor MacGregor if you need to."

Marcus looked over at the new commander. "Aye sir. When do you want the report?" Marcus had been working on that since they left space dock. He just need to get with the doctor.

<Tag Blakus>

Marcus turned and left the bridge grabbing the padd with the to head to sickbay and the cargobay. Entering the turbolift Marcus ordered. "Sickbay." As the lift took him down to the bowels of the ship. Entering sickbay he looked around for Doctor MacGregor

Not finding him in sickbay he figured he may check the cargobay. Heading out he entered the Cargobay and started checking the manifest for the mission supplies.

[Deleted]

After Will had finished updating the records that needed it, he left the Security office and headed to the gym. He hadn't had much work out time on their last mission and he didn't want to "get soft" a he had heard it called. He changed into his workout clothes and before heading over to the equipment, he checked in with the Ensign Malik who was manning the Security station.

"How are things going, Ensign?" Will asked.

"Everything's fine, sir. There have been no changes on any of our sensors."

"Very well. Contact me right away if there are any problems."

"Aye, sir."

Will than headed over to what appeared to be a new piece of gym equipment that must have been installed during the repairs.

No better time than the present to figure it out. he thought.

[Carl Torek]

Carl entered the Bridge of the Galaxy Class starship. Commander Blacus, his newly appointed Executive Officer, was sitting in the Command area. He stood, moving to his own seat as Torek neared.

"Captain." Andae said, nodding slightly.

"Andae." Carl said, taking his seat, "Status ?"

"We are still at warp five .. We should reach the Lycarr System on schedule."

"Once we delver these supplies I think we should give the ship a good ru ......"

"Sir." the duty Navigation Officer interrupted, "I'm picking up several vessels."

"Closing ?" Carl said, leaning forward slightly.

"Not at the moment Sir, they seem to be holding at extreme range. Almost shadowing us."

Torek glanced at his Exec' .. He didn't like the idea of being followed, but it was preferable to being followed unknowingly.

"Helm. Alter heading .. Twenty degrees port." Andae said.

"Aye Sir." the Helm Officer confirmed, causing the massive ship to tilt slightly as she turned, "They have changed course to match."

"Put us back on our original heading." Carl said, and watched the Raven re-orientate herself for the Lycarr System.

"There are five ship's now Captain." Commander Jamison said from tactical, "They are much smaller than us, but could do some damage if they chose to attack en-masse."

"Keep an eye on them." Carl said, "Check whether there's been any activity in this region over the last month that no-ones mentioned to us in the briefing." ..........



< tag : All >

[Deleted]

Daniel woke up to find himself wondering why he was still in his uniform, then he remembered that he had gone to sleep after the briefing and must not have changed out of his uniform. Quickly changing uniforms before Evan turned up and found out Daniel sat down at the table with a novel in his hands from the twentieth century, Daniel began to read while drinking the coffee that he had gotten from the replicator. Daniel had not gotten far into his novel when the door opened to allow Evan in. “Ah so you are awake, where you going to tell me you were up or were you going to surprise me by just appearing all of a sudden?” Daniel knew that Evan was just playing around but he decided to play along “oh i was going to beam into m office later and sneak up on you” Daniel grinned as Evan collapsed into the chair opposite him “Oh please you could not scare anyone. And anyway, let’s talk about us getting married, i know you want to leave this discussion till we get back to starbase 47, but this ship seems cursed to get into trouble every time she leaves the base, so i want to try and arrange our marriage before we need up being thrown back in time or to another galaxy or something.” Daniel stopped laughing when he noted the look in Evan’s eyes, ‘he is serious’ “well, i think we should talk to the captain, if you want to do it right now we are going to need him to marry us, i do not think he will object but i think we should ask him before we plan anything” Daniel stretched his hands out and took Evan’s hands into his grasp, “what do you think?” Daniel asked as he watched Evan think about it “Okay, as long as we ask him soon, i do not want to lose you before i marry you” Evan’s face broke into a smile again and Daniel could not help but kiss him, after he nudged him for suggesting he was going to die in 10 minutes.

Daniel left his quarters on his own, knowing that Evan needed to rest and that he should really speak to the captain about the idea of marrying him and Evan on board the ship. Making his way up to the bridge Daniel thought of how he was going to ask Carl, as the turbolift reached the bridge Daniel had decided it best to talk to the captain in his ready room about it and not to mention it if there was anything amiss. As the doors opened Daniel caught the end of a conversation on the bridge "There are five ship's now Captain." Commander Jamison said from tactical, "They are much smaller than us, but could do some damage if they chose to attack en-masse."

"Keep an eye on them." Carl said, "Check whether there's been any activity in this region over the last month that no-ones mentioned to us in the briefing." Daniel walked around the bridge to take his normal seat hoping he would not be needed but being present just in case ‘oh Evan is going to really hate this if they start firing on the raven’ Daniel looked around at the bridge staff, most were happily moving around their business but Daniel could see the worry in the Captain’s and XO’s eyes, he did not need to read their minds to know that. “Captain, when things quieten down, may i have a word with you?”

<Tag Carl>

[Deleted]

After checking the chronometer, Will was stunned to find that 2 hours had past since he began his workout. He went to his quarters and grabbed a quick shower, changed clothes and headed to the bridge.

As Will exited the turbo lift, Ensign Malik moved over to give him the tactical station.

Shortly after, there was action. Well. Maybe not ACTION. But something was finally happening.

"Sir. I'm picking up several vessels."

"Closing ?"

"Not at the moment Sir, they seem to be holding at extreme range. Almost shadowing us."

"Helm. Alter heading .. Twenty degrees port."

"Aye Sir. They have changed course to match."

"Put us back on our original heading."

"There are five ship's now Captain." Commander Jamison said from tactical, "They are much smaller than us, but could do some damage if they chose to attack en-masse."

"Keep an eye on them. Check whether there's been any activity in this region over the last month that no-ones mentioned to us in the briefing."

"Sir." Will began. "There have been reports of minor scrimmages in the area but nothing that warranted an investigation. Therefore, it wouldn't have been anything worth briefing us about."

"What kind of scrimmages, Commander?" Torek asked.

"A few trade vessels were attacked a few months ago but the local authorities believe they have captured the ones responsible for them. The area has been calm since the arrests were made."

[Andae Blakus]

"A few trade vessels were attacked a few months ago but the local authorities believe they have captured the ones responsible for them. The area has been calm since the arrests were made."

Blakus harrumphed quietly, "Well let us hope that it isn't the same group," he said to Jamison. He looked over at the Captain, who looked to be just as apprehensive as him. Why could something so simple not go to plan, just for once? His last mission on the Victory had likewise been a resupply mission, and that had nearly ended with Blakus being carried off by what turned out to be a Kzinti agent, such was the bizarre 'twisty-turny' nature of his recent missions.

"As the Captain says, keep close tabs on those ships, Commander.." the XO told Jamison. Blakus had tailed off somewhat, it was worrying that they had already encountered something of a hiccup on this mission. The Tactical chief acknowledged him and Blakus turned back to the forward viewport. Seeing the consoles at the front of the bridge, he was instantly reminded of all the extra responsibility that was now his. Lieutenant Marcus was not present on the bridge, he was doubtlessly working on the supply inventory, the report of which, Blakus had told the Ops chief to get to him as soon as possible.

At the helm was the attractive female Lieutenant, whom had handed him the helm duty roster earlier in the day. Blakus studied her as she worked the console for a moment, and then realised that he'd probably been staring at her for longer than was appropriate, for the first officer of a ship. He shook himself and looked away, instead deciding to occupy himself with his chair's side-panel. It had always been the tendency for Andae to go after the exceedingly pretty girl, he never knew why, it made relationships so... difficult, for him.

Anyway, he already had a girlfriend, of sorts. He had not talked to Christina Taylor since he had left the Victory. He would have to contact her by subspace sometime...

[Deleted]

Traks sat in his office reviewing the latest intelligence reports for the area they were entering as well as the latest training reports on his Marines. In peace time Marines on Star Fleet Vessels seemed to be heavy back up for ship board security.

"Computer begin recording; Marine commander's log; Lt Colonel James Traks recording; the unit is coming together as a team; the weakest link seems to be the Co. After our experiences in the Andromeda galaxy in the past I am having a conflict with my duties as a Marine and my oath as a Doctor. If this starts to affect my performance as a commander I will have no choice but to relieve myself of command.” Pause recording.

[Carl Torek]

Carl had been in his ready room for only minutes when the Comm activated ..

=^= Sick-bay to Captain =^=

=^= Captain =^= Torek answered.

=^= Sir .. Lieutenant D'Nor .. There has been an accident .. Doctor MacGregor is injured =^=

=^= On my way =^= Carl said, closing the Comm and heading out of his office.

The Exec' looked up, almost startled by the abrupt appearance of the Captain. Torek just signaled for him to follow and stepped into the turbo-lift. Explaining that the Doctor had been involved in some sort of accident as they traveled.

Entering Sick-bay, Carl was shocked to see how many people were round the main bio-bed. MacGregor lay unconscious before them ...

"We found him in his office Captain." D'Nor said, updating both Torek and Blakus, "He was slumped on his desk, he's in a deep coma but stable."

"What caused this and is it possible more of the crew could be affected ?" Andae asked.

"Unsure." the Doctor said, administering another hypo-spray to James' neck, "His field of medicine was wide-range. It could be something he's picked up during his research. We're in no danger from this i can assure you Commander."

Carl looked at Andae, both men thinking the same thing .. D'Nor was unqualified to take over as Medical Officer, and it was impossible to return to the Star-base for a replacement. The only fully qualified Doctor on board was Colonel Traks ... Carl tapped the nearby Comm.

=^= This is the Captain .. Colonel Traks report to Sick-bay =^=

=^= On my way Captain =^= came the almost instant reply Torek had come to expect from the man.

~~~~~~~~~~

The Marine arrived in minutes, and immediately began his own examination of the Doctor while D'Nor updated him.

"Make him comfortable. Have someone check him hourly." Traks said, then turned to the Captain and Executive Officer, "Deep coma. Signs say synaptic pathways are intact, but there is no way of knowing how long it will last, my opinion would be weeks rather than hours."

"Any chance there could be permanent damage ?" Carl asked, watching MacGregor being moved to a side room.

"I would say not at this point."

"Can you assign your Marine contingent to someone else for now. I would like you to take over as Chief Medical Officer."

"Sir." Traks said, moving away and tapping his Comm badge.

"Keep me informed. We will be on the Bridge." Carl said, receiving a nod of confirmation from Traks as both Senior Officers left sick-bay ..........


< tag : Lt Col Traks / All >

[Deleted]

As James continued his examination of Doctor McGregor he became more baffled and intrigued at the same time.

The Captain was truly in a spot with their current location and the way the medical staff were just doing their jobs and no one clearly taking command Traks was not surprised by the Co's next question and order.

"Can you assign your Marine contingent to someone else for now. I would like you to take over as Chief Medical Officer."

Activating his combadge "Traks to Lt Linkis; Shadow you are to implement op plan Delta one. You are in command of the Marines until further notice, If you have any questions you can reach me in sick bay." Shadow had been expecting this but was glad Traks had made preparations for it anyway. "Aye Aye Sir and Sir be careful what you wish for you might just get it. Simper Fi."

Traks just laughed and replied "Hu Ra Traks out." Looking up and catching the eye of the Co as he reached the door to sick bay Traks nodded to Torek and could tell the Captain understood.

Traks turned to the medical staff; "Ok people this is not a side show back to your duties, I want a status report on the CMO's desk in 10 minutes" Turning to the head nurse; ' Lets move the doctor to isolation room two and set up a level two isolation field, I am not worried about him infecting others if I am right we will have to keep others from making his condition worse." With that Traks left sick bay to retrieve some items from his old office.

[lewiswarren]

As Lewis boarded his shuttle from starbase 47 on route to his new assignment on the Raven his excitement and nerves began to grow. After passing through a small ion storm, making the journey a little bit of a bumpy ride he arrived at the USS Raven. After a deep breath he de-boarded the shuttle and was told "report to the Captain in sickbay". After naviagting the ship and turboshifts he arrived at sickbay and the doors opened. Lewis walked calmly in the direction of the Captain and stood to attention before saying: "hello Captain, new acting Chief Navigation Officer Lewis Warren reporting for duty".

[Andae Blakus]

Blakus stood slightly to the right and behind the CO as he gave Traks his orders. The XO found himself blinking in slight bemusement. It was an odd sight, seeing a temporary CMO in a marine's uniform. But, if he was fully trained then.. why not? Feeling slightly jaded by the fast pace with which he was moving around the ship, Blakus followed Captain Torek back out of Sickbay.

The Command officers walked on to the bridge once again, and immediately Torek excused himself to his ready room. Blakus took the Captain's chair without questioning and checked the status. They were on course for the Lycarr system, and despite the ships they had detected earlier, currently on schedule to arrive at the appointed time. Blakus knew that anything was possible, they may be attacked, or challenged or threatened in any number of ways by any number of things. All he could do was keep the ship on course and hope for the best, but of course, they always had to be prepared for the worst.

"hello Captain, new acting Chief Navigation Officer Lewis Warren reporting for duty".

Blakus blinked and looked around at who had spoken. A red collared uniform, he saw. A man, acting ensign pips, standing next to the tactical console on the upper level. Ahh.. it occurred to Blakus. This must be Ensign Lewis Warren, the new trainee CNO who had recently come aboard. Well... Blakus smiled to himself. His first instruction to Warren would be a correction.

"Welcome aboard Ensign," he said. "I'm afraid the Captain is in his ready room at the moment, I am the First officer, Commander Blakus." With that the XO stood, and leaned over the tactical station rail to shake the Ensign's hand. Warren came down to the command arena.

Blakus looked briefly forward towards the forward viewport, and took in the view of the stars that were displayed before them all. Of course, the image of passing stars was merely an illusion, created by the warp bubble of the ship but.. it was a nice view. Maybe Warren would enjoy a closer look. The XO turned back to the new CNO. "Would you like to take the helm Ensign?"

<Tag Ensign Warren>

[Deleted]

Will noticed as the new CNO reported for duty and than took his position at the helm but he never fully took his attention away from the ships that were shadowing them.

"Sir. The pursuing vessels have closed the gap between us. I 've been keeping an eye on them. It seems that about every 30 minutes, they will move in almost 20,000 kilometers and then returned to matching our speed. If they continue, they will catch up to us about 1 and 1/2 hours before we reach the Lycarr system."

[Carl Torek]

Carl watched the screen .. Space was moving past the ship at an incredible rate. They were traveling at warp six, and could increase that speed at any time, but both Torek and his Exec' were 'curious' at what the marauders may try to do.

There had been attacks in this sector before, but then, nothing the sheer size of the USS Raven had been here. Both men were airing on the side of caution though, because while a single marauder vessel couldn't damage the Raven, being attacked by several may lead to them sustaining damage they don't need.

"Mister Jamison ... Tactical on-screen." Carl ordered.

The image instantly changed to show a computer generated view of the surrounding space. The Raven, represented by a Star fleet insignia, was traveling toward the nearby Lycarr System. The marauders, highlighted in red, were slowly closing the gap between them and the Raven.

Jamison was right, they would be caught before they could deliver the much needed supplies to Lycarr Seven ..

Carl would have simply slowed enough to allow the marauders to catch them well outside the system, but in this case, he chose to wait for his new Executive Officers' opinion.

"Forward view on-screen." Carl requested, and the image changed to show stars seemingly flashing past them.

"What do you think Andae ?" Carl asked ..........


< tag: Exec' / All >

[lewiswarren]

As Lewis finished his introduction he looked around the bridge, and saw a Commander smile, he had misinterpreted him as the Captain from behind.

"Welcome aboard Ensign," he said. "I'm afraid the Captain is in his ready room at the moment, I am the First officer, Commander Blakus."

Lewis nodded and walked down to the command area and shook Commander Blakus's hand before saying " thank you sir, good to be aboard". He also felt apprehensive in this new environment as all the oficers took a quick glance towards his direction. As he looked towards the viewpoint the stars passed quickly, an effect created by the warp bubble, was quite a view. Commander turned back to him and asked "Would you like to take the helm Ensign?"

"Yes sir, i am ready for duty" Lewis replied.