El Sal Mission 9.3: One Hand Washes the Other

[Deleted]

Blaze Was on the bridge running some routine diagnostic on the tactical station when she was told by Commander Jackson “Well Ensign your in charge.” Thank you ma'am as she continue to work she her combadge went off.


Blaze tap her combadge Blaze here go ahead Ensign Dawson " Ensign Dawson it would seem you will be stuck working with me after all. If you are up to this challenge I suggest we meet to go over some of the new training that has come out. I suggest your office in 10 mins after wards we will run the drills you desire"


Well sir I am glad you are here to stay Because I would I do believe that I would not do your marines a great service.However It would had been Interesting To have had do so.However I am up for any challenge that might come my way. I am on my way Blaze out.

Blaze called over another one of security Officers to take her place while she headed off to Office to meet up with Colonel k’ratak.
Blaze spoke Ensign powers you have the bridge Ensign Powers took over the tactical station while Blaze left the bridge.

Blaze Arrived In the security office finding that she got there early which Is what she had wanted she gather the Information base on the drills she had Intend to run.


She had plan to In corporate some old an new training drills she had plan to In corporate some of the marine an security training drills. As well as any Ideas the Colonel k’ratak had In mind she Believe It would be wise not make to be Ignorant an act as If she were some type of hot shot.

She wanted to be respectful by allowing Colonel k’ratak to be a major part of coming up with drills an sharing In decision of what might take place In the training of the Officers.

She also gather the Information on spreading out the departments so that way there will be more places that they could cover within the ship weak points.

An In hoping that she will be able In corporate this In to all departments an would able to talk to all department heads about It.

[SA. Stacey Jackson [Ret]]

With the K’ratak matter now behind her Stacey decided returning to the bridge would be a rather large waste of time, a Senior officer was not required while in dock. The reports on the repairs were slow. There was no reason to hound the engineering staff as it would no doubt do noting but waste their time and distract them from their work.

Deciding the hustle and bustle of Deep Space Nine was not what she was in the mood for Stacey headed for the holodeck. Once inside Stacey looked at the metallic walls and wondered for a brief moment which program she was in the mood for, after a few moments Stacey had made her mind. “Computer activate program Jackson omega one.”

The Scenery shimmered into existence after only about a second, Stacey found herself on the middle of a rather massive rainforest, her current location overlooked a waterfall that cascaded down with both elegance and chaos. The noise of the water falling was loud but at the same time calming, The weather in the holodeck had changed to copy the that of a Betazed rainforest. Had she not been able to feel the slight differences in temperature and smell of the plants she would have believed she was actually there.

She sat down and her eye closed as she listened to the water and the occasional animal call. A feeling of calm washed over her as the frustrations of the last few weeks seemed to ebb away.

A half an hour passed with no interruptions when suddenly Jackson was abruptly brought out of her meditative state by the comm. Channel. “Bridge to Commander Jackson, we have a guest who requests permission to come aboard.”

Jackson’s eyes opened and her mind worked quickly, were it an Admiral or Ambassador or even a Captain, Savot would have been called she assumed it was probably a crewmember from Deep Space Nine who wished to either see the vessel or catch up with a friend or family member.

Tapping her comm. Badge she replied. “Unless protocol requires my presence give this to Commander Hope.” Her tone neutral but tired. Thinking that the end of the conversation she again closed her eyes and taking a deep breath. But a few seconds later a response came.

“My apologies Commander but the ensign is rather persistent that you meet them.” Eyes again opening she replied. “One my way, Jackson out.”

Wondering what kind of Ensign would dare persist in bothering a Commander that did not wish to be bothered. She walked the corridors with a heavy step and tired gaze, Minutes later she entered the bridge.

“Where is this Ensign?” she asked looking around and seeing no new faces, a young crewman manning a Science station looked up and replied. “He was escorted to the observation room Ma’am.” Now annoyed at having to chase down the Ensign Stacey walked to the observation lounge. Entering she started to say. “This had better be..’ she stopped as she laid eyes on the Ensign and immediately smiled widely. “Dean.. What are you doing here?” She asked as almost squeezed the life out of him with a hug.

“Ah mum please.. need.. to .. breath.” Dean replied from the midst of his mothers hug. She let him go and he took a step back and smiled widely. “Well for the time being I am a free agent, and I thought I should visit, with academy behind me I decided to take a little me time.”

“The joys of youth, mind that don’t lose yourself in all your me time young man.. I am sure you have had offers yes?”

Dean shrugged slightly as he answered. “Well two actually one from Utopia Station and one from the Engineering department of the U.S.S Vienna, I have yet to decide if I will accept either I want to make sure I choose something I will enjoy.”

Feeling happy to see her son after the scare he gave her back on Earth, she smiled. “Well enjoy yourself but don’t take too long choosing.”

Dean smiled as he stood up straight and looked to the door . “I will mum, there was another reason to drop in on you though.. We took a while deciding whether it was better to tell you by message or in person and well..” he motioned to the door.

Stacey turned with interest and almost suddenly her heart rate increased and her mouth dropped open. In the doorway Hannah stepped forward a baby in her arms from behind her Dean said with pride in his voice. “Your Grandson born last week.”

Stacey looked to Hannah and then down at the baby, her hand moved the blanket from his face and she looked down, “I.. I remember when you looked like this.”

Dean stepped forward and stood next to his Fiancé, “Would you like to hold him?”

Stacey too moved speak held out her arms as her Grandson was gently laid in them. She looked up to Dean and Hannah fighting to hold back tears. “He is beautiful.”

Dean smiled again as he looked down at his son. “We decided to name him, James.. it was Hannah’s idea.” Now tears moved down Jacksons face as she looked up. “Your Father.. He would be so proud.”

Hannah looked at them both and smiled as she said. “He is perfectly healthy.. though he gets cranky if he isn’t fed on time.”

She looked up almost having to tear her eyes of James.. “He was exactly the same.”

[kratak]

He arrived at Ensign Dawson office and entered to see her already hard at work. This was a good thing to see her already involved with ship security and not wasting to much time settling in. Still he hoped she made some time for her self at some point all work and no play made things a little boring in his book. Still they had things to go over and drills to run, when she looked up at him he motioned for her to stay seated.

" Well it would seem you are already busy planning the drills, I will provide what ever assistance you need Ensign. Also I do have a little problem already its a minor one, dont think for one moment you wouldn't have done my marines justice. My first impression of walking into your office and seeing already hard at work proves to me you would have done just fine"

" As for the drills I would suggest avoiding pirate attacks, only reason being this crew has already done that and will be sharp as ever. My though would be to lean towards things they have done in a while and deal with enemys they have seen in awhile. These are only suggestions but I feel you might get a better picture on what needs work. I"m not saying you can't do pirate attacks but I would leave them until last if thats your plan" <Tag Dawson>

He waited for her response it had made it clear they were suggestions and not orders. This was her drill and he was not about to impose himself. She need to make her own choices and get a feel for her department and his. He just wanted to make sure she got a big picture of what they could do. He was looking forward to see what new training had come out and what had been improved on as well.

[Deleted]

Blaze raise her brow at Colonel K'ratak as she listen to the minor problem she nodded In understanding yes I would had done well but I am afraid It would not be the same for your marines all do respect sir I think they might miss you an I would miss out on a chance of getting to know you.

There will be no need for repeats of pirate drills I am sure all Is well In order. But I will have to say It might be wise to have some normality for a change. Just some nice routine drills added with a twist of marine drill training I was hoping that we could arrange It so they get the best of two worlds.

I also would like to talk to you about say making separate Departments such as tactical being that of Its own department. As well as security having Its own department however I would also like to add a Hazard team. As well making of aerospace fleet department which will would work with your marines. spreading out the deparments would help us deal with covering more areas.

Now the hazard Team will consist of each of the following departments science,medical,marine security. I will need confer with the other departments on this I just wanted to know If you would mind being In charge of the hazard team?

An as for my program that I made for the drills I would love for you add your marine drill Into the program so we might start the drills

[kratak]

Looking at the new Ensign he admired her idea's and her attention to detail. Still some of the changes she wanted to make were beyound his approval.

" Ensign I like your ideas about the drills and a hazard response team I really due." pausing for a moment to make sure he didn't crush her idea's " On the other hand I do believe there is something of a response team in place. While your idea is a good one I think its already in place. We will have to check with Commander Jackson if there is I believe you could improve it and refine the duties of this team with command approval first."

" As for seperating the departments, I would have to disagree with you on that. I'm not telling you can't do it but you need to get Commander Jackson and the captain to sign off on it. I'm not so keen on the idea for the simple fact you are responsable for both they are conetected for a reason and I'm not sure its a good idea to break them apart. Please by all means discuss this with Commander Jackson and see what she thinks"

" As for the drills I'm thinking your idea's are good, I would suggest getting the crew involved as well. As we both know there are times where response time might not make it, and I believe a refresh training for the crew on how to handle the basic's of a problem until we arrive would be a good idea" <Tag Dawson>

[Deleted]

James walked along the corridors Of DS9 to meet up with his new ship the El Salvidor, He thought to himself ~ I hope I do well here.~ as he knew that his new posting was that of CEO and that meant a senior staff position.

He looked back at his PADD that held his transfer orders, he thought~first stop the Bridge then Medical then to meet my staff.~ he continued until he found the docking port that Held the El Salvidor. he looked at the two Security officers and spoke "Ensign James Stewart the new CEO." as he handed the PADD over to one of the officers.

"That's fine sir "replied the burly officer Handing the PADD Back to him whilst the second Officer opened the docking port, James stepped through the Hatch and knew that his Job started here and now.

He turned to head off towards the Corridor to find the turbo-lift that would take him to the bridge, James thought~ Wow this is what I'm responsible for keeping alive.~ as he continued on down the brightly lit corridor.

[Savot]

After bidding S'reena and Auric farewell for the moment, Savot left the holodeck to return to his quarters. Upon entering he noticed a message waiting for his attention but even as he went to access it Commander Jackson's voice rang through his room, =^=Captain, when you receive a letter from Colonel K’ratak, Disregard it he has changed his mind.=^=

Arching an eyebrow, Savot considered reading the message anyway just to see what situation it was that had apparently been resolved already but decided if it was indeed resolved there was no need for his involvement. Partaking in a sonic shower and donning a fresh uniform the vulcan captain then returned to the bridge, relieving Ensign Powers who had been senior officer until his arrival. Again the Operations console was the most efficient one with which to follow up on ship's status regarding repairs and keep track of crew coming and going between the ship and DS9, and it was still unoccupied due to the 12-hour pass and the El Salvador being docked so Savot comfortably assumed a seat there.

Minutes into his tapping away at the console, Savot registered an incoming hail coming from the Starbase on an emergency channel. Even as his eyes narrowed in concern over the use of an emergency signal the captain's fingers danced atop the console to receive the message. An Female human wearing Admiral's insignia appeared on the bridge's main viewscreen, apparently standing in one of DS9's conference rooms. Savot himself was easy enough to recognize despite his being seated somewhere besides the center chair and the admiral spoke calmly but with an urgent undertone.

=^=Commodore Savot, we have an emergency humanitarian situation to address. Meet me here in Conference Room 2 with your entire senior staff in 15 minutes; I apologize for the brevity but this has only just come to our attention and cannot wait. Hayes out=^=, the female admiral, apparently Admiral Hayes, finished with a firm nod before the viewscreen returned to the visage of the star's surrounding the station. Savot returned supervision of the bridge to Ensign Powers and boarded the turbolift to enter DS9 through one of the docking umbillicals.

As he descended Savot tapped his commbadge routing it to those of all his staff, =^=Savot to all Senior Officers. Rendevous immediately at Conference Room 2 aboard the station for an emergency mission briefing, Savot out.=^=

<Everyone>

As he exitted the turbolift he saw an engineering officer apparently en route to report in to the bridge. Savot clasped his hands behind his back as he walked, briefly holding out his right hand to accept and glance at the new officer's orders as he walked, "Chief Engineer Stewart; welcome aboard. My apologies for the curt introduction but we have been summoned to an emergency briefing aboard Deep Space 9 please follow me."

<Tag Stewart>

He returned Stewart's datapadd after keying in where the new engineer's quarters were located so he could have his things moved there after the briefing.

[Deleted]

As James continued down the Corridor he noticed an Officer heading towards him, James was about to give a nod to him he noticed the Rank insignia that of a Commodore. He spoke "Sir, I am Ensign James Stewart reporting in for Duty." he handed the PADD over that held his Transfer orders.

"Chief Engineer Stewart; welcome aboard. My apologies for the curt introduction but we have been summoned to an emergency briefing aboard Deep Space 9 please follow me."


He returned Stewart's datapadd after keying in where the new engineer's quarters were located so he could have his things moved there after the briefing.

"Aye Sir." replied James as he turned to Follow his new Commanding Officer, He asked "If I may ask Sir,What has Happened?" he looked back at the Senior officer and continued "Is it me or is the rest of the senior staff coming Sir?"

<Savot>

James thought to himself~this must be bad if the whole senior staff was involved~ he continued walking along side his new commanding Officer.

[Deleted]

Emergency meeting. S'reena scowled as she entered her quarters, nearly tripping over a handful of toys. She was saved the embarassment just in time as Daen reached out to steady her. "Michael has gone to sickbay," he told her, "and the children are in school save for your youngest child. She wasn't feeling well so I remained behind to look after her."

"Thank you. "Are you able to remain here a little longer? Apparently I have a briefing to attend, and no time to shower or change."

Smiling, Daen reached out and pulled her hair back then twisted it up. He reached back, then placed a clamp in her hair. "Fixed," he chuckled, before handing her a sleeveless, knee-length maroon tunic that tied with a sash around her waist. "Not exactly in uniform and not quite the correct colour, but it'll do. Go."

The Romulan woman smiled at the shapeshifter's thoughtfulness, and it earned him an approving warble from her companion as well. "Thank you."

Minutes later, she walked into the briefingroom. "Sir, my apologies for the lack of uniform, I had no time to change." And dressing usually did take slightly longer, if without assistance, so she did have a perfectly good excuse, even though the truth was that on her way home she'd been delayed by several of her staff who had wanted her opinion on one thing or the other. Auric took perch elsewhere in the room, where she had a clear overview of everyone, while S'reena took her seat.

"If you wished for Daen to be present I can summon him, he is currently watching Kyala, who is unwell."

[kratak]

Looking at Dawson after they heard the captain call for senior staff. This was a bit odd a meeting right now on DS9 something about this meeting meant they were going to be busy again.

" Well it would seem for the moment Ensign we will have to put our drills on hold until after the meeting. I suggest we get moving before we are late" <Tag Dawson>

They made there way to the meeting room when he entered he noticed most of the senior staff was there and a juinor officer he hadn't seen before. He wondered about that for a moment until he saw his friend Commander Hope she was not in uniform. Smiling from ear to ear he walked up next to her.

" My, My Commander it would seem nobody wanted to give you a chance to change" chuckling a litttle he made sure she knew is tone was one of having fun. Since the meeting hadn't started yet " How are the kids are they keeping you pretty busy last time I saw them they were quite youn. I'm sure by know they have you and your huseband running at warp 9.9. Knowing they have your blood I would dare say maybe transwarp drive with all that energy" <Tag Hope>

[Savot]

[El Salvador]

"Aye Sir." replied James as he turned to Follow his new Commanding Officer, He asked "If I may ask Sir,What has Happened?" he looked back at the Senior officer and continued "Is it me or is the rest of the senior staff coming Sir?"

"All senior officers have been summoned to the briefing though as yet I am unaware as to the details. Given the abrupt nature of the summons it seems reasonable to conclude an unanticipated emergency has recently occurred", Savot replied as he walked with the new CEO onto the space station.

************************************************
[Deep Space 9: Conference Room 2]

The Admiral had apparently stepped out for a moment to handle another communique because the entirety of the El Salvador's senior officers were present and accounted for upon her return. Savot first nodded away Commander Hope's apology and replied to her comment regarding Daen, "To my knowledge he was not required at the briefing, though if his presence seems beneficial to the assignment we can procure him afterwards."

Colonel K'ratak arrived with Ensign Dawson and gave Hope his own greeting as well.

<Can assume there's time to finish that back/forth before the briefing starts>

Soon thereafter Admiral Hayes returned, greying honey hair held behind her tightly via ponytail, "Please pardon my delay I'm having to juggle a number of details with regards to this mission." With that brief intro and without being seated the older human called up a solar system image on the main monitor of the Conference Room. A dusty-orange haze spread from the core star out to nearly the system's 2nd planetary body, the first planet was completely within the cloudish haze.

"This is the Jhedok system, territory awarded to the Klingon Empire for their crucial assistance during the Dominion War. As you can see the system's star is undergoing a peculiar form of decay resulting in a cloudlike phenomenon that has thus far enveloped the closest planet to the star. The system itself is thus far uninhabited so there is no planetary evacuation needed in this instance."

Zooming in to the space between the star and its closest planet, Hayes indicated a Klingon Scout ship listing at an odd angle before she continued speaking, "The Klingons sent a ship to investigate the cause of the star's breakdown. Their initial probes detected no radiation their shields and hull would have any problem blocking, but obviously something has left the vessel adrift, and eventually their shielding will fail entirely and even the previously harmless radiation will kill the crew should that occur. Failing that, the ship's drift course will eventually bring it within the gravity envelope of the star at which point it would be pulled it and destroyed with all hands."

The image reset itself to the broader view of the system as Admiral Hayes now took her seat and entered commands into the table interface which brought all the data they had so far to each officer's screen on the table in front of them, "It's common knowledge Federation metaphasic shielding technology is further progressed than that of the Empire and as such they have requested that we mount a rescue. Without knowing what disabled their scout its likely any followup vessel the Klingons sent would face the same result."

"However, given the unknowns of the situation we still have to hurdle, Starfleet doesn't want to risk a full crew needlessly. The scout ship carried only a half-dozen Klingon crew and as such your primary shuttle, which I believe you call the Mini-Sal, is the most sensible craft to send, crewed by the El Salvador's most senior personnel", Hayes intertwined her fingers as she rested her grandmotherly hands on the conference table and looked to each of the officers gathered, "I'll attempt to address any questions though time is of the essence and as stated our information thus far is limited."

<Tag Any/Everyone>

[Deleted]

" My, My Commander it would seem nobody wanted to give you a chance to change" chuckling a litttle he made sure she knew is tone was one of having fun. Since the meeting hadn't started yet " How are the kids are they keeping you pretty busy last time I saw them they were quite young. I'm sure by know they have you and your husband running at warp 9.9. Knowing they have your blood I would dare say maybe transwarp drive with all that energy"

S'reena smiled. “I suppose so Colonel,” she replied, “though Daen was thoughtful enough to hand me a tunic.” She laughed. “I know it's not much, and definitely inappropriate but it still beat being late. The children are fine, thank you for enquiring. Though Kyala's feeling unwell at the moment, so Daen's watching her while Michael is at work.”

The Romulan reached out to the back of her seat, missing it by far. “Some help?” she enquired softly, only for the Klingon to hear. “Auric seems distracted enough not to be of assistance right now.”

[K'ratak]

== during briefing ==

S'reena listened intently, her hands folded before her on the table, her head slightly tilted. “What do we know of the phenomenon that was created by the decay?” she asked, “is any scientific data available on that? What about the emitted radiation?”

The Romulan woman straightened, blind eyes 'staring' slightly past the admiral. “And would you define the term 'most senior personnel' if you please?” She wanted to go. As senior scientist, she felt she belonged on the away or rescue team, whatever the mission type was going to be listed as. “Did their sensors send any data back for us to study?”

[All]

[kratak]

He listened with interst they had been friends along time and he did care about her and her family. Some klingons would find there relationship distateful but he didn't care in trueth he trusted her more then some klingons he knew.

" I'm sorry to hear that Commander although I feel more sorry for the kids" chuckling a little " They will never beable to play sick because of your huseband and there grades will all ways be A's after all they did get your intelligences.

He heard her asking for help and noticed it was only he who heard. Looking around he leaned acting like he was having a private conversation " My Friend its 15 cm back and 10 degrees to the right." he was amazed how she adjusted and found her seat turning nobody seemed to notice which was good.

Listening to the briefing with great interst he had been in the defense force for awhile before turning to star fleet. So he thought he might be some help after all his firt tour was on a scout ship.

He listened to the questions and asked one of his onwn " Will the empire also give us the ships command codes to access its computer corp admiral. It would save alot to time then trying to hack it and figure out whats wrong if the crew is unable to assist us"

He waited he had his concerns but figure it was best to share them later. After all while the empire were friends right now. The klingons on that ship would not be to happy about having to accept help. Then there were the culutral differnece if somebody honor was insulted it could get ugly really quick.

[SA. Stacey Jackson [Ret]]

Looking to Dean and his Fiance with regret in her eyes she said. “I am sorry I have to go, it sounds important.. how long will you be on Deep Space Nine?”

the two exchanged glances before Hannah replied. “At least a month, Someone recommended a resort on Bajor that was peaceful we could both do with that.”

Giving them both one last hug and one last glance at her new grandson Stacey rushed out of the room and towards the turbolift determined to not be noticeably late for the briefing though given the choice of speaking with her family and being scolded for lateness it was no contest.

**Briefing**

She walked in just in time to hear the Admiral begin the briefing, she recognised the woman remembered her face possibly passed each other or spoke during Stacey’s tenure at Starfleet Academy, but the name eluded her for the moment.

Sitting at the far end of the table unable to hide her delighted grin and half interest in the Admirals words Stacey was partly in a world of her own. She snapped out of her own thoughts when the Admiral asked for questions though she herself had none, it seemed like a rather simple mission for someone in her position with the Commodore there to be in charge and the actual problem solving done by those with the expertise she was no doubt not overly needed. Though she would go much as she disliked it.

Hearing Hope’s questions and finding that she either knew or could guess the answers she again slipped into her own thoughts.

[Savot]

S'reena listened intently, her hands folded before her on the table, her head slightly tilted. “What do we know of the phenomenon that was created by the decay?” she asked, “is any scientific data available on that? What about the emitted radiation?”

Admiral Hayes turned to face the Romulan scientist and nodded slightly as she responded, "The phenomenon appeared to be a standard formation of a planetary nebula. For those without a heavy background in astronomy, including myself sadly, I'll give a brief summary of that." The slightly wrinkled cheeks drew back in a self-effacing smile at having to admit her lack of scientific knowhow as the Admiral proceeded, "At the end of a medium star's life, during the red giant phase, the outer layers of the star are expelled via pulsations and strong stellar winds. Without these opaque layers, the remaining core of the star shines brightly and is very hot. The ultraviolet radiation emitted by the core ionizes the ejected outer layers of the star which radiate as the aforementioned planetary nebula."

"Obviously the ultraviolet and thermal radiation were to be expected, but for the Scout ship to have been compromised there has to have been either another form of radiation of which we are as yet unaware, or the thermal radiation levels were unprecedentedly higher than they should have been for a star of this size and type. In which case the most likely explanation would be the presence of an element within one of the star's layers that has never before been encountered."

The Romulan woman straightened, blind eyes 'staring' slightly past the admiral. “And would you define the term 'most senior personnel' if you please? Did their sensors send any data back for us to study?”

Colonel K'ratak listened to the questions and asked one of his own, "Will the empire also give us the ship's command codes to access its computer corp Admiral? It would save a lot of time then trying to hack it and figure out what's wrong if the crew is unable to assist us."

Hayes smiled softly and nodded once again, "In response to your question Colonel the Empire has indeed provided the command codes for the vessel as it was anticipated that you might need to remotely access their sensors or crew logs to determine what had happened. Which partly answers your second question Commander Hope."

The Admiral turned back to S'reena, "The reason the Scout ship's incapacitation was noticed was due to their missing their first scheduled data transmission window to report initial findings. Therefore at this time the only way to know what they've already found is to execute the remote computer access Colonel K'ratak suggests. As to the defining of most senior personnel I was referring to those of you present in this room, the El Salvador's senior officers; though naturally in a mission such as this scientific expertise will likely be the most important. Also I understand your ship has recently accepted a Changeling passenger; we have no issue with his participation in this mission but given the lack of data at present we cannot know what effect this environment might have on our own biology to say nothing of a Founder's."

Hayes moved her glance to take in all of the gathered officers, "Though I've always held to the belief that any situation is best faced with officers from all departments, if any of you wish to remain behind I am authorized to permit it. Because if a similar fate befalls the Mini-Sal without providing us more data we won't be able to justify sending another rescue craft given the likelihood that more lives would be lost fruitlessly."

[Savot]

Admiral Hayes let silence fill the room for a few moments, glancing to each of the gathered officers to see if any further questions were to be given voice, then nodded, "Very well if there are no further questions I recommend you depart aboard the Mini-Sal as soon as possible. Every minute the Klingon scouts drift helplessly decreases their chances of survival. Godspeed, all of you."

"Following your departure the El Salvador will be moved to Starbase 24 to undergo repairs suffered during your recent marauder assault so you can rendevous with it there. Your next mission is high-security and as such ship and crew will be prepped thusly. During transit command will be supervised by the lead Repair Officer...", before the Admiral could identify the officer in question the conference room doors opened.

"Hey! Cap'n Buzzki- uh Admiral Hayes! I-I thought you'd be gone by now ma'am", the human male entering the room wore Engineering yellow and full Commander's pips. His first expression of mischevious humor quickly stammered into one of apologetic backpedaling.

Admiral Hayes smiled but there was no sweetness in it as her eyes narrowed like a hunting cat's, "I'm afraid not Mr. Delbridge; in my advanced years it takes me a little longer to clear the runway nowadays." She cleared her throat as she stood, gesturing to the new arrival, "Though the Commodore is already acquainted with him, I introduce the rest of you to Commander Chester Delbridge of the Jupiter Propulsion Research Station. He'll be supervising the repairs and commanding the El Salvador's relocation to Starbase 24. A manuever he will perform on his absolute, best, behavior. Isn't that right Commander?"

Managing to smile and gulp at the same time, Delbridge nodded, "Absolutely ma'am you can count on me; above and beyond my unwavering professionalism, I'd never let my buddy Savot down and let anything untoward happen to his trusty steed." He stood away from the door as Admiral Hayes nodded a goodbye to the El Salvador officers and left them to their business.

Savot, eyebrow arched in surprise, rose to his feet, "Commander Delbridge? I believe I recall you describing the Lieutenant Commander grade as the 'sweet spot' and had intended to remain as such."

Looking almost embarassed Delbridge shrugged before crossing his arms, "Yeah new pip's hot off the replicator presses. And this is your fault Elfis Presley so don't look smug. Admiral said they couldn't have anyone beneath a full Commander heading up the El Salvador prep for the next mission and I wasn't about to let you get stuck with someone boring."

"Heaven forbid", Savot replied in monotone, "Everyone, procure what equipment you need and prepare the Mini-Sal for launch we'll depart in 15 minutes."

<Tag everyone>

Savot left the briefing room and his friend followed along, "Commodore? Really? Thought you'd planned to avoid command-grade like the plague", Delbridge probed.

Clasping his hands behind him in his usual posture, Savot answered, "As with your tale, my advancement was someone else's 'fault'. I presume you are unable to divulge any details as to our next assignment given its high-security nature?"

Delbridge nodded even as he rolled his eyes at the collective 'throw ya to the wolves' mentality of most organizations, "Yeah in case you end up 'compromised', which in this case most likely means radiated-into-oblivion, they don't want anyone to glean critical data from interrogating your gooey remains."

"Your point of view is, as always, colorful Commander", Savot said with a bow of his head to thank his friend for being up front about it.

"Gah! Bad enough I have to wear the pips but don't you go beating me over the head with it. Anyway, don't worry about the ship I'll make sure she's all ready to go for you guys when you make it back to 24", Delbridge waved a goodbye to his vulcan friend but gave a concerned expression before he left, "You feelin' all right? Better take a look in the Mirror, you're a little green."

Savot didn't miss the slight emphasis Delbridge had placed on one of those words, and bowed his head gratefully, "I'll do that Mr. Delbridge, your concern is appreciated. I shall see you at Starbase 24." The friends parted and Savot made for the shuttlebay since he needed no extra equipment for the mission at hand.

[Deleted]

S'reena laughed quietly upon hearing the mirth in the newcomer's voice. Was this then, the friend that Savot had once spoken about? The one who'd given him his fish Alfred? She listened as one spoke merrily while she identified the captain's voice as being dry. Yet, was there a hint of humour in it? While the Romulan wasn't quite sure, she also couldn't deny hearing it.

~So he has a sense of humour after all then~ she thought as she waited for the briefing to be ended. Once she had the feeling that everyone was leaving, she waited in her seat, until everyone was gone. She had no desire of walking into anyone, or anyone being in such a rush they forget she generally took her time on getting somewhere, without the risk of hurting herself. The smallest chair being in her path could be dangerous.

By now, she knew the lay-out of the bridge like no other, and could find her way across it without walking into anything. Deep Space 9's conference room was another story but after waiting for the humanoid obstacles to clear out she managed her own departure with little difficulty. Anyone not knowing her wouldn't mark her for a blind woman, until they stood face to face. And those that did, only noticed it in the small things.

She eased her way out of the room listening intently. "Commander Delbridge?" she called out, hoping the man was still within earshot. She wouldn't have much time for she too was ordered to the mini-Sal, much to her own delight. "Commander Delbridge, a word if I may?"

Delbridge craned his neck, the wandering crowds forcing him to glance around for the person calling for him. A moment later he'd matched the face with the words and moved out of traffic's path while lessening his own pace, delighted that it wasn't the Admiral coming back with something stern to say. "Hello Commander... Hope yes?", he said with a friendly smile. He'd reviewed the El Salvador's personnel roster and though he hadn't memorized faces it wasn't like the ship had more than one Romulan Chief Science officer.

She caught up with the starbase officer. "I understand you're a long-time friend of Commodore Savot," she started, a mischievous grin playing around the corners of her mouth. "And I understand that you know him well? Rather, know him as well as you think you do?"

He grinned and gave a semi-shrug in response, "Well I met him about a year after he got back from 'wonder why it's even classified anymore since everyone's heard of it by now' Mirror land. I quickly discerned if anyone needed help having a good time it was him, so I took it upon myself to try."

Her smile widened. "I've sort of made it my goal to make him smile," she confided, "and though I personally won't see it, there are others who might benefit from it. For morale's sake. So ... I was wondering if you have any ah ... pointers on how to achieve that. Without embarassing him of course, I wouldn't do that to him. Not consciously anyway."

Delbridge grinned in response, sensing a sister-in-arms as it were, and proceeded to butcher a quote attributed to Surak, "There can be no embarassment where none is taken, Madame."

"Hmm, dunno about the morale benefit. Don't you think seeing a vulcan smile would be more creepy than anything else?", he made a face before giving a shudder, "Still, it's a noble goal. I've only seen him smile once so far though. Man that was good." Delbridge proceeded to chuckle softly to himself in recollection as he told the tale.

"A few months after he came to the Jupiter Station, we had a Sadie Hawkins dance, yanno where the woman asks the man. Anyhow, we had a recent graduate on the staff, female Ferengi basking in the whole women's empowerment movement so a Sadie Hawkins dance was right up her alley", he paused a moment and looked off to both sides as those telling a massive secret before continuing. "I did a little creative editting with the duty roster and afterwards there was only one male on the station who happened to be off-duty during the dance that hadn't already paired off with another girl. Not to be denied the dance, the Ferengi girl asks Savot and in his typical chivalrous manner he can't very well refuse since there's no one else to ask."

Delbridge has to stifle a laugh before getting himself together enough to go on, "Ever the scientist, Savot asks what's expected of him to be a suitable date to such an event. And being the friend I am I told him straight out that you're supposed to smile when the girl arrives to let her know you're pleased to see her, and a girl isn't interested in hearing about logic when she's up for a night on the proverbial town. So she shows up at his quarters to pick him up, and the door opens to the resident vulcan giving a decent attempt at a smile for the lady's benefit. And I hafta say, even after the genius it took to orchestrate it, having always seen him in stoic mode it was indeed a little creepy seeing him smile."

Delbridge then sighs, "So long story short, I got him to smile but not through any astounding comedic feat on my part. Had to resort to good old fashioned mischief. I won't keep you any longer, but I'll see if I can conjur up any other stories of note when you guys get back to Starbase 24. Take care."

== a few minutes later ==

S'reena reported to the mini-sal, carrying a small bag of belongings as well as equipment, while being escorted by Daen. "Commander Hope reporting," she announced formally, while waiting for permission to board.



(Delbridge reply editted in by Savot)

[kratak]

After the briefing he had concerns if the klingons on that ship were alive and well. There could be some trouble after all klingon warriors generaly don't ask for help and seldom accept it. He was caught off guard by the officer who would be commanding the El-Sal. It seemed he and Savot knew each other quite well. There was little time to go digging so he headed for his quarters and got his gear along with a klingon uniform just in case and packed them in his gear.

He headed for the mini sal and start stowing his gear and system checks until the rest of the crew arrived. Recent events had taught him there was no such thing as a simple mission when it came to this crew. If he knew anything before it was over there would be danger and life's at risk. Think it would be nice to set foot again on a klingon ship he just wished it was under the current circumstances.

[SA. Stacey Jackson [Ret]]

She stood and walked calmly out of the briefing room, the younger officers always seemed in such a rush to her but she knew that she most likely was like that in her youth.

It took her only a few minutes to get back on board the El-Sal, once on board she headed straight for her quarters on deck two. She didn’t have anything to pack as per say she wasn’t a specialist of any kind, and she doubted the Klingons would need nor submit to any Counselling so she resigned herself to only packing a change of uniform and a few Padds, some were reports or technical manuals and others were for leisure.

She headed for her door when a brightly coloured object on her coffee table caught her eye, it wasn’t something that she had left there so she turned to investigate. Picking it up she realised it was something that had been gift wrapped. Turning it over she smiled slightly as she read the small card stuck to it.

~ To Mom, Love Dean, Hannah and James ~

She tucked the slim gift under her arm, not having the time to open it in the allotted ten minutes and made her way to the shuttle bay.

She nodded to a few people on the way as they made greetings, but she largely avoided any conversation. Once inside the shuttle bay she walked to the Mini Sal, again with a small amount of regret that she had to leave.

Once inside she looked around and saw only K’ratak, Hope and Daen had arrived. With a smile to all of them she said. “Well been a while since I was on a what you call it… Road Trip.. Should be interesting, hope you all brought a change of uniform we are going to be in tight quarters.”

Walking up to the front she took the secondary pilots seat, it was about the only thing she would be of any use for on the trip, shield mechanics were largely beyond her aside from the basics and Commander Hope would have the science station well covered.

“Guess we have nothing to do but wait until the others arrive, anybody know any good jokes.” She asked jokingly as she pulled out on the padds she packed and began to read.

[kratak]

He noticed the commanders arrival and listened to the conversations. She was right tight quarters were going to be a must he had his gear stowed along with some personal items if needed. Turning to face those present he smiled and walked to commander Jackson station.

" Commander once the mission is under way I would like to with your permision brief the crew on the lay out of the klingon ship and more importantly klingon custom's and laws. If there's anybody alive on the ship then these things will be in effect. Also I would like to be assigned to Commander Hope if there's anybody awake. This is by no means a insult that she can't take care of herself. I just would like to avoid her having to kill anybody because klingons can't get past the romulan face they see and understand she's a fine officer. If nobody is alive the there will be no need" <Tag Jackson>

[SA. Stacey Jackson [Ret]]

Stacey turned as K’ratak approached her and listened as he spoke, she could see the logic in his words but at the same time knew S’reena well enough to know she didn’t like being assigned a babysitter. Smiling at K’ratak she responded.

“Assuming the Klingon’s are alive and assuming we will need to go aboard their vessel, The Klingon’s on board are very unlikely to start a fight, they would know that without us they don’t have a snowballs chance in hell of getting out alive.. And I am sure they would think twice before attacking a Starfleet Commander no matter the race.. and Commander Hope wouldn’t attack one of them.”

She paused and looked down at the control panel and frowned as she noted most of the senior staff were becoming very close to being late, looking back up to K’ratak she added.

“However a briefing on the layout of the Klingon vessel would be of help, most Starfleet Officers don’t get a chance to see one from the inside.. However I don’t think hearing Klingon customs and Laws are needed, we are all senior officers we have been around the race track more than once.. and most of it is common knowledge and taught in the Academy anyhow. But your diligence to duty is noted Colonel.”

Tapping her comm. Badge she said. “Jackson to all senior staff.. Get the shuttle bay double time people, take off time is getting close and tickets are none refundable.”

<Tag K’ratak and Arrivals>

[Savot]

Savot was en route to the shuttlebay when his commbadge chirped, the computer in his quarters having alerted him to the completion of the backtrace he'd started on where his father's autopsy reports had originated, and he diverted briefly to his quarters to check the results before departing with the Mini-Sal. Upon entering the vulcan tended first to Alfred, sprinkling some fish food into the tank and bidding his silent companion a temporary farewell, certain that Delbridge would look after the goldfish until his return since the human had given Alfred to him in the first place.

Entering his access code Savot brought up the results and narrowed his eyes... whoever had accessed his father's files had been aboard Starbase 24 when they had done so. Curious, he thought to himself. But for the moment his personal mystery had to wait as it wouldn't do for the Commanding Officer to miss his own deadline.

**********************************************
[Mini-Sal: Inside El Salvador Shuttlebay]

Savot boarded the shuttle nodding to those already assembled, and did a quick check of equipment and supplies which included transfering the EMH program to the shuttle since the holographic physician's immunity to radiation might prove necessary during the rescue effort. Per standard procedure the program was activated to confirm the transfer had succeeded, and the Doctor came into being amidst the 'cockpit' of the Mini-Sal, "You realize Captain, as a recognized sentient being I'm within my rights to request a transfer to a job where we don't intentionally fly into areas we know to be hazardous." The Doctor's tone was his typically sarcastic complaint-mode and no one believed he truly intended to leave.

Savot quirked a brow as he tilted his head slightly, but continued running through the preflight checklist as he replied, "However, such a transfer could not be approved before our departure so your presence would be required nonetheless. Should you wish to submit such a transfer upon our return; however, I would be pleased to proofread it for you."

"I'm a computer program... I have a spellcheck, Captain sir", the EMH retorted before deactivating and returning to the Mini-Sal's databanks.

When everyone was aboard and all gear was stowed, Savot stood in the middle of the cockpit behind the two pilot stations. The vulcan was surprised to hear Delbridge's voice already on the bridge confirming their clearance to depart the shuttlebay and wish them luck in their mission. When they'd cleared the bay doors Savot ordered, "Best speed for the Jhedok system, Yellow alert."



(Going to assume the presence of both Stewart and Dawson so they're able to participate when they can. Now, off we go)

[Deleted]

"Spell check?" S'reena asked while keeping her attention to her console. She felt Daen hover close by, but knew he was keeping his distance to keep out of her way. He was merely being curious and still learning all he could. "I don't understand captain, what does a hologram need a spell check for, especially when most messages are audio rather than text?"

The Romulan appeared truly puzzled. She started as something furry brushed past her hand, then smiled. "Hello Firestorm, I'd recognise your tail anywhere. You're not sticking it in anything are you?"

The feline doctor offered his version of a chuckle. "Only in this crew's health commander. How are you feeling?"

Pausing in her work, S'reena turned. "I'm fine. A little nervous, especially about boarding a Klingon vessel. I know their general lay-out as I've been on one before, but that was a few years ago, back when.." She fell silent, bowing her head. "When I could still see," she finished quietly. She felt Firestorm's tail curl around her wrist in offer of sympathy. She patted it with her free hand. "I'm fine," she reaffirmed. "Colonel K'ratak?" she called out, not knowing where the Klingon was at present. "A word please?"

S'reena waited for the Klingon marine to announce his presence, not wanting to rouse Auric from her slumber. The little gold was clearly exhausted and needed her rest. "Colonel, I appreciate your concern regarding my ah... disability and I'd be honoured if you'd keep close guard. I'm not worried about what the Klingons might think, I'm more concerned with walking into things that aren't supposed to be there for whatever reason. A babysitter is perhaps a bit much, but I'm sure you know what I mean."

[Savot]

Shortly after the EMH's departure Savot heard S'reena speak from her station, "I don't understand captain, what does a hologram need a spell check for, especially when most messages are audio rather than text?"

"Well in the case of Personnel transfers and other official issues Starfleet still prefers a hardcopy so to speak of those documents. However, I believe the doctor said it in this case as a shorthand of sorts otherwise his dramatically abrupt exit would lose some of its drama", Savot made an educated guess based upon his thus-far gathered experience of their EMH's personality program.

As Hope addressed K'ratak, the vulcan then took the opportunity to greet their organic medical officer, "Welcome aboard Dr. Firestorm. Thank you for joining the rescue effort; I have yet to encounter a scenario where there were too many medical personnel available. We have no detailed data as yet, but should Colonel K'ratak successfully access the Klingon vessel's computers both yourself and the EMH will be provided with whatever readings we can procure so you can prepare your treatment regimens accordingly."

[Deleted]

=Corridor=
James had left the briefing shortly after the others had, and thought~ Boy my first mission.~ as he strode back to his quarters to get his personal toolkit. still for him this was cool and hoped that he did not foul up in front of the Captain. although the Salvador's Co was a Commodore James knew that the Mini ship was due to leave.

Still He had to show willing that he was not some flash harry who had just strolled in from the academy, in fact he had. he strolled in to his new home and found his stuff sitting on the table wheres it had been left. he opened it up and extracted the small case.

He thought~ Better get a move on before they leave with out me.~ he knew that getting to the mini Sal and missing it would be a big mistake he thought~ I'd better run.~ so he did.