El Sal Mission 10.1: And Everything in its Place..

[Savot]

(This is the new mission thread folks, though I'm leaving the last one open for a few days in case people feel like certain tag responses or backposts would be more effective and lucid contained in the same mission that started them. But whenever folks are ready you can begin posting in here. Story-wise we'll be at Starbase 24 for a few days for repair and security debriefings for members of the 2 Away Teams, then we'll start another actual mission.)


[El Salvador: Docked at Starbase 24]

Stacey stepped off of the turbolift onto the bridge, she took a deep breath as she walked through it instinct almost making her sit in the Executive Officer’s chair. She made it to the Captains ready room and stepped inside.

“Commodore.” She said she as walked inside. “I’ve been told I need to leave fairly soon, but Command was nice enough to allow me one last look around and say goodbyes.”

She stopped as she made it in front of his desk. “It was an honour serving with you sir.”

Savot had already been aware of Jackson's impending transfer but it made this last moment no less potent. As a sign of his respect and gratitude towards she who had so effectively backed him up for so long, the vulcan captain rose from his chair offering the hand salute of his people, "The honor has been mine, Captain Jackson; your absence will be felt.

Stacey gave a nod. “Well I should be off being late for ones own ship launch probably is not the best way to start things off.” She turned and headed for the door. Before turning her head and adding.

“Oh, I stole the chair from the Executive Officer’s office.. Tis’ too comfortable to leave behind, oh and I am stealing Lieutenant Palmer little jerk made a wise crack about recruiting Captains from retirement villages.” She gave a slight smile.

The captain arched an eyebrow before nodding, recognizing the humor that tinted her voice, "I shall confirm his transfer orders right away, and procure a replacement chair from the Starbase."

“But I did arrange a present of sorts.. I know how much fun it was for you to have one Jackson on the ship so I’m leaving you with three.. See you around the Galaxy Commodore.” She walked out of his office and made her way off the ship.

************************************************
[The following day]

Things were getting back to 'normal' aboard the El Salvador, the vessel underwent repair and decontamination from her battle with the Penance, and the crew that had remained behind had all been re-integrated including a few incoming transfers. Savot instructed all the senior officers to run diagnostics on the ship's systems that fell within their respective departments' pervue, and then it came time for another goodbye.

Savot manned the transporter controls that would send Commander Chester Delbridge back to the Starbase for a return to the Jupiter Propulsion Research Station, "I thank you for your assistance in this endeavor my friend."

Delbridge grinned at his old friend's sentimentality and gave a firm nod, "Sure thing Savot, anytime... though before I leave the Starbase I plan to perform some grievous offense that'll make Admiral Hayes demote me back to Lieutenant Commander. It'd be just like her to force a command position on me just for spite. Take care buddy."

Savot nodded his agreement and sent his human friend over to the base. Then it was time to get back to business and he made his way back to the bridge to oversee the repair team reports.

[Jamey Gaz]

[On Star base]

During his helm simulations, Gaz freshened up his skills in for multi-vector ships such as the El Salvador and the memories of his last post aboard this ship were all heightened. Overseeing each third while the computer's autonomous systems were a bit taxing but amazing all in the same moment. With his session over he logged his time and spoke with the simulation officer in charge about some aspects of the simulation. With that, he was done and headed for a rest. Upon exiting, there was a message of the return of the El Salvador and where she was located. Seeing she wasn't in space dock but in a repair structure made him wonder what did she go through in order to return.

Returning to his temporary quarters to gather his few belongings he scheduled the rest to be transferred via transporter handling. He wondered if he would run into Firestorm on the way to the transporter.



[On El Sal]

The transporter beam released his form and he quivered in his boots. Even with the latest in transporter technology he still felt light headed being a joined Trill. He recalled reading something on his last visit to Trill about the transporter process is suspected in giving the host a sensation of the Symbiont being removed or un-joined. That thought was even more disheartening as that would start a clock running if medical attention wasn't administered. All this flashed across his mind before he nodded to the El Salvador's transporter attendant who said, "Welcome aboard sir." Gaz almost always forgot his three gold pips, "Thank you crewman, it is indeed good to be aboard the El Salvador again." He was sure the crewman wouldn't recall his history with this ship but his comment was still non-the-less heart-felt.

Pausing only for a moment before exiting the transporter room he tapped his badge, "Computer, Commander Gaz reporting on-board and on-duty; inform the Commanding Officer." The computer acknowledged with its familiar beeps and Gaz stepped through the door way.

<Tag Savot>

He stopped by his new quarters only to drop off his small backpack and to see if his things had arrived; he noticed his desk terminal flashing. Tapping it, the terminal displayed his first on-ship action item. The Vulcanesk wording made Gaz smile and he had forgotten the efficiency of Vulcan orders.

Turning on his heals he stepped back out of his quarters and just a few steps away the lift. Calling for the bridge the lift quickened to comply and take its occupant to their location. The doors opened to a busy bridge, repair crews, removed panels, dangling optics wire, test pattern on the main view screen. All signs of a busy but effective repair process. Making his way to the CONN he took his seat and started with bringing up status and systems log screens.

It has been obvious the return home as well as events just prior were hard. The navigation sensors and main grid were misaligned and reminded him of watching old-Earth 3D movies with out the special glasses needed to finish the effect. Only the backup navigation processor was on-line with the main being off getting its power supply refurbished. He took a long breath and started to his work. Gaz whispered to himself, "The tall ship needs to be able to see the star in order for him to steer her by."

[Deleted]

[Starbase 24 Five Days Earlier]

James walked from the freighter, it had been a rough ride all the way from the Nevada to the starbase where he was to check in on the El'Salvador. The excitement was overwhelming, and at the same time he had felt nervous. He still had five days left before he was expected to be on board so a set of guest quarters were arranged for him. James was not wearing his uniform deciding to be comfortable for once and wear a pair of jeans and a black shirt.

With a deep breath he sighed heavily the terrible smell of his cramped quarters on the freighter were behind him. His back was sore from sleeping on the flat mattress that was given to him for the ride. That is why I work in Starfleet not a damn freighter... He thought aggressively as he came to the residential wing in the Starbase where his quarters weren't too far in front of him. That was when he realized that perhaps he was more tired then he originally thought. His time on the freighter was wrought with sleepless nights. And, no sooner did he lay over on the bed was he snoring...

[USS El'Salvador]

James watched the transporter pad appear below him, and sighed with relief once he was on board. Words could not describe what he felt like as he came aboard the ship where he was stationed when his career had began. He was an Ensign all that time ago, and he was the pilot on board. Somehow no matter where he'd gone after becoming a part of this ship he could never quite forget her.

But, he recalled the night prior reading the crew roster there weren't the same people on board as there were when he originally checked aboard. And, Commander Jackson had been promoted to be the Commanding Officer on a new ship in the fleet. The former science officer went with her, in fact the only two on board still were Commodore Savot and Commander Roberts. The other names he didn't even recognize, and just like when he originally checked aboard there wasn't an XO. As he stepped off the transporter pad he remained deep in thought when a voice startled him.

"Welcome aboard Commander!"

James turned to see the transporter chief standing there, it was another face that he didn't recognize though he would smile regardless. "Thank you Ensign." He responded before turning and walking out of the transporter room. His pace increased as he came to a halt at the turbolift, "Deck Four." The trip was rather short as it came to a halt.

He stepped out of the turbolift and slung the bag over his shoulder before making his way into the quarters that had been designated for him. They looked so familiar inside as he sat his bag down in the corner of the room, and hung his other yellow uniforms inside the closet. Softly he ran his fingertips over the yellow portion with a smile. He did enjoy being in a yellow uniform way more then a red one. Afterwards he would exit his quarters and walk back down the passage way towards the turbolift. "Bridge."

[Bridge]

James made his way forward his PADD in hand with his information that was needed to report on board with. He seen a Commander sitting at the CONN station, but like so many other officers on board he did not recognize him. He did however recognize the individual on the bridge sitting in the center seat. Who was at one time a Captain when he first checked on board so many years ago as an Ensign was now a Commodore however the fifth pip telling him that. "Commodore Savot...Lieutenant Commander James Cohen reporting on board!" He said calmly, but the slight hint of excitement was there buried in his features.

(Tag Savot)

[Savot]

[El Salvador: Bridge]

Savot sat unnecessarily at the center seat using it as a makeshift command post from which to monitor the various repair reports and oversee the overall effort. As he perused a datapadd confirming the return of all previous personnel who'd stayed behind during their latest mission, the computer informed him that one of their new arrivals was now here as well, =^=Captain Savot, Commander Jamey Gaz reports on board and prepared for duty.=^=

A quirk he had yet to shake, Savot nodded in response to the statement and inclined his head slightly as he spoke in response to the machinery, "Commanding officer acknowledges." He checked to make sure that Gaz' transfer orders included the location of his shipboard quarters and seeing that they had the vulcan captain left the returning helmsman to settle in.


************************************************

Sooner than anticipated, Jamey came to the bridge prepared to assume his station. Savot stood and welcomed the officer with a slight bow of his head, "Welcome back to the El Salvador, Commander. Your willingness to assist right away with the repair efforts is most appreciated. As you can see the ship's equipment was put under significant strain recently. When time permits please report to sickbay as well for your incoming personnel physical."

Turning to look up from the lowered CONN and OPS station Gaz replied, "Thank you Sir, I'm happy to be back home, if you will. I will report to sick bay for that physical when this level one diagnostics is started. It will take several hours for that to run and report."

His policy was to give incoming crew 48 hours of 'settling in' time before having to report to duty unless there was an emergency, but more often than not the new officers elected to start to work straight away which he respected; though he certainly thought no less of those who took advantage of the 48 hours.

Only a few minutes after Jamey took his station, their new Chief Engineer was deposited onto the bridge via turbolift as well and reported in, "Commodore Savot...Lieutenant Commander James Cohen reporting on board!"

Savot rose to give a welcoming nod to him as well, "Welcome back Commander Cohen; your arrival is most fortuitous as the ship is undergoing repairs at this time. However, as we are currently without a specific assignment from Command you are welcome to take up to 48 hours to settle in aboard ship before reporting to duty; though in either case please report to sickbay within that time frame for your routine physical. Additionally, feel free to refer to me as captain when aboard ship as I find it takes less time to say and is therefor more efficient."

The vulcan handed Cohen a PADD, "This is a comprehensive list of damages sustained by the El Salvador during her last mission, as well as shield frequency modifications that had to be implemented. They're currently inactive but even so they will need to be removed and our standard shield parameters re-implemented. Commander Delbridge should still be aboard the starbase should you have any questions as to alterations he made during our assignment."

<Cohen>



(Will be letting about a week go by before 'starting' our next real mission so in the meantime people can post their repair work, meeting and greeting, etc.)

[Deleted]

Savot rose to give a welcoming nod to him as well, "Welcome back Commander Cohen; your arrival is most fortuitous as the ship is undergoing repairs at this time. However, as we are currently without a specific assignment from Command you are welcome to take up to 48 hours to settle in aboard ship before reporting to duty; though in either case please report to sickbay within that time frame for your routine physical. Additionally, feel free to refer to me as captain when aboard ship as I find it takes less time to say and is therefor more efficient."

The vulcan handed Cohen a PADD, "This is a comprehensive list of damages sustained by the El Salvador during her last mission, as well as shield frequency modifications that had to be implemented. They're currently inactive but even so they will need to be removed and our standard shield parameters re-implemented. Commander Delbridge should still be aboard the starbase should you have any questions as to alterations he made during our assignment."

James accepted the PADD carefully and placed it under his arm, "Thanks sir it's great to be back." He remarked before kindly departing from the bridge with PADD in hand. "Main Engineering!" He called out as he activated the datapad, and carefully began to read as the doors opened and he stepped out. The damages weren't as bad as he had originally feared knowing little in the way of their previous mission during his own time away. A classified errand boy that he'd become lately in the field of intelligence.

.:.Main Engineering.:.

James looked towards his shields specialist, "Any success in removing our-" He paused looking oddly at the Ensign standing before him. The woman must have been fresh from the academy as she seemed to tremble at the sight of her Department head. "Ensign at ease!"

"Y-y-yes sir..."

James tried hard not to crack a smile, "Ensign have you ever actually...You know what come here." He said walking over to the shields control station. "There are inactive shield modifications that must be scrubbed from the system. I want you to wipe the computer's memory banks of their existance and set the harmonics in this pattern."

"I...understood s-sir!"

James turned to walk away shaking his head knowing that her head was not turned in his direction. There were several small amounts of hull damage, however it appeared that the station was nearing completion on that. He could slip inside his office to arrange things back to his liking. However, before he could step all the way inside his office he heard a sharp noise followed by a loud scream. James turned around to see the shields console smoldering, and the young Ensign balled up in the corner shaking back and forth slowly.

James simply shook his head wondering how hard it could possibly be to do a simple task and not destroy things. "Ensign Kal Letta in my office now!" He said to the young human woman who winced at the sound of his voice. He then looked towards the two J.G.'s standing nearby, "Put that fire out, and quit snickering. That's an order!" He barked before spinning around. And, inside his office he went where he seen the young woman now standing at attention though tears still streamed down her face.

The engineer made his way to his replicator, "Coffee black!" He said sharply before grabbing the dark blue mug and sitting down with a new PADD in hand. His eyes darted over the PADD quickly and discovered that she was not a fresh Ensign, but was previously assigned to another ship prior to this one. During her time there aparently her clumsiness had destroyed half of engineering. He frowned, <i>Only I would get stuck with a destructive shield specialist.</i> He thought to himself, "Look try not to destroy the ship, you're dismissed to your quarters!" He said...

[Savot]

(Just a minor story note for reference. At some point during this downtime Savot will have left the ship with the Mini-Sal to return Yarna Hope to her mother S'reena Hope aboard the U.S.S. Rainier.)

[Deleted]

JP between Nathan and Hannah

"Did we bring Terry!" Hannah asked as she turned to look at Dean who had just drifted off to sleep. He groaned slighty as he figdtied in the shuttle crafts small chair. "What?" he asked as he opened his heavy eyes.

Hannah frowned clearly much more awak and nervous than he was. "Terry the Tiger did we bring him?! James won't go down without him!" She said as she began to rummage through her bag. Dean sighed as he rolled over and pulled the small stuffed tiger toy out from under him. "Yes here he is."

Handing her the Tiger he said. "Stop panicking we tripled checked everything." He moved a little more as he slunk down to go back to sleep, only to be surprised to a finger jabbed in his side.

"Don't sleep now we are nearly there.. besides you don't want to meet your new Commanding Officer looking like you just rolled out of a coma." She took a deep breath as she looked beside her at James as he slept quietly.

Dean sighed heavily as she sat up straight. "I'm not the senior officer dear, you are." he leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek before rolling over and saying. "He won't be judging me! it will be you." With that he went to sleep.

**One hour Later El Salvador Shuttle Bay**

The shuttle landed smoothly and Hannah stood up slowly as she picked up James as softly as she could. To her surprise he merely snuggled up a little and went back to sleep. "Just like your father." she muttered as she looked down at Dean sleeping deeply mouth wide open.

She stepped over the sleeping Dean and walked to the back door that began to swing down. Stepping out she gave a slight smile.

Nathan had been informed of the fact that a new counselor would be arriving and he for one was relieved for that. Until now he'd been dealing with the crew stresses and he wasn't even qualified to do that. Not to mention that he had to keep his own stress levels in check too. Surprisingly though, he hadn't suffered any form of heart attack recently, which was also quite a relief. ALso for Ayden who just kept watching him like a hawk when they were together.

"Such an adorable child," he said by way of greeting. "I'm Doctor Nathan van Breughel, ship's chief medical officer, though you can call me Nathan or any variant thereof." He smiled. "How old is he?"

"Nine months old." She replied with a smile. "I'm Counsellor Hannah Jackson.. Call me Hannah." She shifted her arms slightly as she said. "I've heard a little about you Doctor I look forward to working with you." She gave a slight smile as she turned as she heard footsteps stomp out of the shuttle.

And that is my husband "Ensign Dean Jackson... he's delighted to meet you too." She handed the very sleepy looking Dean the baby and said. "You should take him to our quarters he needs changing." Dean groaned as he carefully held the baby and walked off.

Hannah turned back to Nathan and said. "He is much more talkative normally... So tell me how is this crew holding up? I understand you all returned from a hard mission and have lost some crew to transfers."

"So far they seem to be dealing with it just fine," Nathan answered, "though I can't really judge. I'm a doctor, not a psychologist so you'll have to nark them for appointments, and judge for yourself." He paused. "Me, I'm coping. I'm doing the best I can, we had some severe injuries and those that need it are being transferred to starbase for further treatment. I am just relieved we returned to tell the tale." He stared at her, his eyes taking on a brief haunted look. "I thought I had killed my mate for a while," he confessed, then shook his head. "We'll save that for later. Would you like a tour?"

"Yes I read the mission report." She replied simply not pushing the issue. "A Tour would be appreciated, perhaps we can start at my office? I understand it has gone uninhabited since Stacey was there.. I should check it isn't covered in dust and cobwebs."

"I made sure it was cleaned up before your arrival ma'am," the doctor responded as he gestured. "This way."

She gave a smile. "Please don't call Ma'am.. Counsellor is sufficient.. and I appreciate the cleaning of the office." She took a deep breath as she began to follow him.

** Five Minutes Later **

She walked into the office and gave a look around. "Yeap this her style." She muttered as she looked at the light blue couches. "Blue couches with cream carpets." She walked over the to desk and seemed to look around it for a moment before tilting her head and kicking the side that was closest to the wall.

She down and moved aside the panel she had knocked loose, standing up she held a bottle of scotch and said. "Christen the office with me Doctor?"

"I fear I would have to decline on the alcohol ma'am. Even if I would love to, I am not allowed. But I'll have something else instead." He smiled. "Your mother-in-law was a friend of mine," he confessed, "even if she could be...difficult."

She nodded. "Oh well." pulling up a glass she poured herself a small amount and motioned to the replicator. "Take your fancy Doctor."

"Stacey needed to be.. difficult." She drank the mouthful of scotch and said. "She raised a son alone and managed to hold together a career.. I don't think I could manage the same... besides that she is a fantastic lady." She sighed slightly as she added. "But still has horrible taste."

She titled her head slightly. "We may share the same last name and profession but I am not Stacey, I hope this crew doesn't expect me to be.. for better or worse we have different personalities and styles."

"I'm sure we can give that to someone who does appreciate it." Nathan smiled, indicating the scotch. He sure would, but he had promised Stacey to not touch any again. "No, you are not her, and you could never be her. But you can be the best of who you are. I'm sure you will fit in well."

"I'm sure we can." She said as she picked up the bottle and place it back in it's hidey hole. "Myself." She stood back up and took a deep breath. "I should report in with the Commanding Officer." She gave a smile as she walked for the door. "Thanks for showing me my office." She stopped and looked at Nathan for a moment and said. "Till next time Grandad."

"I think..that'll be a while." Nathan smiled gently. "My son is only eight years old. My daughter is but one."

"Yeah.. but you got some gray here.. and your much too nice.. it's your nickname now." She shrugged. "Nothing I can do about it.. these are the rules.. You should feel honored only people I like get nicknames!" She gave him a smile before walking out.

*Bridge*

She waited for the Captain's ready room doors to slide apart before she walked inside and said. "Commodore, Counsellor Hannah Jackson reporting for duty sir."

<Tag Savot>

[Jamey Gaz]

His time on duty didn't seem as long as it was, Gaz mused that he must have been having fun. With main and backup navigation fixed, calibrated and on-line he looked at the flight officers and repair crew standing around the CONN, "Thank you all for your time, not only fast work but efficient and quality as well. I'm sure the Commodore will appreciate the work." The crewmen and officers around all had big smiles and Gaz added, "Now, get out of here and get some well deserved off-duty hours." The repair crew exited the bridge and the rest of the flight crew was still standing around talking over their repairs and what must have caused the issues. Gaz logged the needed information and smirked, "No, really get off the bridge and to have a drink. I really don't want to make that an order." The officers all agreed that an order wasn't necessary and all made their way to the lifts.

With work out of the way, Gaz still had an order - medical review - that he needed to finish. That fact put him in a lift to sick bay ...

... arriving at sick bay he halfheartedly meandered to the attending, "Commander Gaz reporting for a medical check-up." He never really liked non-Trill medical staff ever since he was joined. He had never, as he recalled, his whole carrier in Star Fleet found a doctor who knew more than what fables told of Trills. In fact if one were to read over his personal logs they would find that the "Trills have cold hands" joke was a micron from driving him from finding the nearest air lock. 'Cold hands - warm heart,' indeed he thought as he heard from his Earth shipmates with every assignment. Maybe, just maybe he wouldn't have to hear that on this ship.

<tag medical>

[Deleted]

"I'll be with you in a moment doctor!" The voice sounded cheerful, but it's owner was nowhere to be seen so far. "Give me a few seconds to clean up here."

A few seconds later, the chief medical officer appeared, carring a young child on his arm. He was closely followed on his heels by two felines. Carefully, he set the little girl on one of the biobeds, and erected what seemed like a sort of safety net around it. Next he lifted both felines and set them beside the little girl. "My apologies doctor, I had my little girl to take care of first."

Nathan gestured towards the next vacant bed. "Hop on sir, and we'll see about your physical. It shouldn't take long, and I actually have to hound the commodore for his check up too. See, he was injured recently and well you know how stubborn Vulcans can be, right?" He babbled on cheerfully as he flipped open his tricorder. "I know all about Vulcans," he continued as he walked around his patient. "Not so much about Trills, but enough not to mess up anything."

The tricorder beeped once and he peered at it again. "Ah, I see you are joined. How long have you been joined? Have you been experiencing any issues since having done so? I know, rather, I read that some Trills lose their identity for a bit, before getting accustomed to all those lifetimes that they're now joined with."

He closed the tricorder and laid it aside, then picked up a syringe and a few vials. "Roll up your sleeve please, I need to take a few blood samples." Nathan waited patiently for Gaz to comply and then swiftly did what he needed to do. "Aside from insect bites, anything you are allergic to? Anything I need to know, to most efficiently treat you when you're injured? I have isoboramine in stock, should you require it, but insofar I can see, your levels are stable at the moment."

(Gaz)

---

Some time later

---

Nathan made his way to the bridge, medkit in hand. If the captain wasn't coming down to sickbay, well then, sickbay obviously had to come to the captain. "Captain, your readyroom please," he stated patiently as he approached the commanding officer. "I apologize for disturbing you here while on duty, but you've been ignoring my calls. You were injured, ergo, I need to do follow up examinations, and that does require your presence in my sickbay. Since you refuse to come down, I see no other alternative but to come up here. Your readyroom would be least embarassing, however I can do my scans here if you prefer."

[Savot]

[Jamey Gaz]

The wait wasn't that long so Gaz had a moment to look around the sick bay. It wasn't that much different than than he remembered it from this last assignment on the El Sal. However he could tell a few, however small, refits had been done. When the Chief Medical Officer rounded the corner, holding a child and felines, Gaz was a bit surprised. In fact his confidence in the Doctor fell as he heard, "Not so much about Trills, but enough not to mess up anything."

~Mess anything up~ Gaz thought. His heart sunk a bit as he didn't even need to ask the Doctor's experience with a joined Trill. As the Doctor opened his tri-corder he mentioned to Gaz, "Ah, I see you are joined. How long have you been joined?" And a myriad of other questions at almost a rapid fire pace.

Gaz replied, "Yes I am joined and have been for my entire career in Star-fleet and most of my life." Gaz remembered his joining well and how indeed he lost himself, as the Doctor put it, for a while. "Joining does take some time getting accustomed too, but that is known and a host isn't allowed to leave Trill until that phenomenon has passed." Gaz never was bothered by explaining his joining as long as it didn't become the only topic talked about. "The 'lifetimes', Doctor, as you put it is what a host looks forward to and a benefit from the joining. It is something that can be enjoyed - I am blessed to be joined."

Gaz rolled up his sleeve and gave the customary blood sample as he waited for the Doctor to find the oddity of his patient. But that question didn't come and that surprised him. Instead something about allergies and isoboramine. "No, Doctor, I do not have any reactions out side the normal for a Trill." Gaz offered but continued, "I would like for you to note in your medical logs that you should not administer isoboramine until levels fall below 40%. If done before that level then I will suffer memory loss that is normally 48 prior and past the administering of the drug. Isoboramine will heighten the memories of the past hosts. This is not a fatal or even a long lasting loss, but that would require me to be off-duty for a while."

Gaz was still troubled as to why the Doctor had not found from his blood test, even initial preliminary test, he was not just a Trill but Human/Trill. "Doctor, does your initial blood test not come as a surprise to you?"

[Savot]

[El Salvador: Ready Room, following Savot's return from U.S.S. Rainier]


Savot granted entry to whoever was on the other end of the Ready Room door's chime, then saw that it was the new Counselor, Stacey's daughter-in-law. She walked inside and said, "Commodore, Counsellor Hannah Jackson reporting for duty sir."

Savot stood to welcome her with a bow of his head, indicating the chair opposite his should she care to sit though it was by no means mandatory, "Welcome aboard Counselor; we're pleased to have you and your family with us. Please feel free to refer to me as captain while aboard ship; it takes less time to say but still 'gets the point across' if I'm using the phrase accurately. Do you have a title preference? Your predecessor preferred Counselor to her rank until she became First Officer."

<Hannah>

Savot nodded, resuming his seat as he continued, "We've just completed a difficult assignment; the crew performed admirably and I am aware of no unresolved difficulties but my expertise in such areas is admittedly low. I hesitate to make any formal counseling sessions mandatory, and as such I would appreciate it if you'd be willing to observe the crew and inform me if you think such a course is warranted. Likewise at your convenience I'm willing to answer any questions you may have if you make it a practice to evaluate a commanding officer upon arriving at a new assignment; with little exception I should be able to amend my schedule to match whatever would work best for you."

<Hannah>


************************************************
[Bridge: 2 hours later]

Nathan made his way to the bridge, medkit in hand. If the captain wasn't coming down to sickbay, well then, sickbay obviously had to come to the captain. "Captain, your readyroom please," he stated patiently as he approached the commanding officer. "I apologize for disturbing you here while on duty, but you've been ignoring my calls. You were injured, ergo, I need to do follow up examinations, and that does require your presence in my sickbay. Since you refuse to come down, I see no other alternative but to come up here. Your readyroom would be least embarassing, however I can do my scans here if you prefer."

Savot had turned his chair to face the turbolift when he saw the doctor enter the bridge, and his face was pure innocence as he arched a brow in response to Nathan, "My apologies doctor; it was not my intent to ignore you. I've only recently returned from a 3-day absence I had to take to return Miss Yarna Hope to her parents aboard the Rainier; however, I was following your instructions as standard shuttle piloting falls within the parameters of light duty."

"If your work would be easier in sickbay I will accompany you immediately; but if you would prefer not to waste the effort in bringing your equipment all this way I have no objection to being scanned on the bridge. I understand captains are often perceived as being reluctant patients but I recognize that ailment and injury are likely in Starfleet service, and as you were selected for posting as the El Salvador's Chief Medical Officer I have every confidence in your abilities Doctor", Savot shifted his weight slightly within the center seat, prepared to either sit back down or stand and walk to sickbay with the Doctor as Nathan preferred.




(OOC: Will do another tomorrow or the following day to begin the new mission, but wanted to separate that so response tags to the mission briefing wouldn't feel cluttered together with the tags I had waiting for me. Thanks again for everyone's patience.)

[Deleted]

.:.Jefferies Tube.:.

James hung upside down inside the jefferies tube checking the circuits for the plasma manifold, and the warp nacelles. It was the finishing touches that would be required to complete removing the many upgrades to the ship's engines. His face was red, and sweat continued to roll down the senior engineer's forehead. "Fusion cutter?" He said quietly.

Ensign Jeffery Donaldson looked down through the kit before handing the tool to the suspended Lieutenant Commander. "You've missed a lot since you were away sir."

James smiled weakly as he ran the cutter across the wiring removing the fitted piece that enhanced the warp nacelles. He had read up on who had invented this hardware, and found that he was quite impressed. "Yeah, well Starfleet has moved me from station to station lately. It's good to finally be back on board Ensign." He didn't know Jeffery prior to his departure just like so many others things had changed greatly since his last go around here.

"I'm sure it is sir. I heard in the past few months you've been an engineer, an intelligence specialist, and a pilot?"

James nodded after extending his body out and placing the cutter on the ground and grabbing the EPS gel pack that he was replacing the old part with. He leaned up and placed it inside, "Yes something like that. I can honestly say though that it's nice to be working on this ship's engines again. Hopefully I-"

=^=Commander Cohen there has been a replicator malfunction on deck eight crew quarters.=^=

James heard his communicator go off, and sighed heavily, before tapping his communicator, "Oh really, and who's quarters are they and please describe to me the details of this replicator malfunction?"

=^=Ensign Kal Letta says she was trying to get it to make her some hot tea when the replicator instead created some sort of detonation pack. The detonation pack went off shortly after she says she put up a level three forcefield around it to prevent further damage. The bulkhead as well as the entire replicator are well...Gone sir.=^=

James grumbled under his breath, "Finish getting this into place Ensign Donaldson." He said before responding to his communicator, "I'm on my way tell Ensign Kal Letta not to touch a damn thing!" He said sharply half the ship would be destroyed before he was finished repairing it.

.:.Junior Officer's Quarters.:.

When James entered the Ensign was sitting on her bunk, and the bulkhead was smoldering behind the forcefield. "Care to explain what happened." Although, it was obvious since there was food on her table she had to have been clearly eating and tried to order something with food jammed in her mouth.

"I had some food in my mouth and-"

James shook his head, "Nevermind." He said before looking at the wall once more, "Computer lower forcefield." He said and walked over with the extinguisher. Quietly he put out the fire, and tapped his communicator, "Commander Cohen to Lieutenant Blish please bring a team to Ensign Kal Letta's quarters with tools to replace an entire bulkhead, and replicator."

=^=On my way.=^=

James smiled his Second for the engineering department was willing and able to do anything that was asked. And, James also had a splitting headache the last thing he wanted to deal with was another explosion caused by the same engineer. How could an engineer destroy the ship by herself? He shook his head and awaited...

[Deleted]

"Doctor, does your initial blood test not come as a surprise to you?"

Nathan turned back to his patient, surprise on his face. "No, should it?" He cast the man a questioning look, wondering if he had missed something. He looked over his scans again, with a bit more scrutiny this time. Perhaps he had, in his excitement to be treating a joined Trill. "Ah..I see." Only now did he notice the mixed DNA pattern. "Which of your parents is Human?"

"I was wondering if you would notice - my father is human." Gaz rubbed the spot where blood was taken. "I normally get asked to provide another blood sample as most believe that it can not be correct. As far as I know, I'm the only Human/Trill that has joined. most do not posses the stomach pouch for joining."

---

"If your work would be easier in sickbay I will accompany you immediately; but if you would prefer not to waste the effort in bringing your equipment all this way I have no objection to being scanned on the bridge. I understand captains are often perceived as being reluctant patients but I recognize that ailment and injury are likely in Starfleet service, and as you were selected for posting as the El Salvador's Chief Medical Officer I have every confidence in your abilities Doctor"

Nathan recalled that the Vulcan's injuries hadn't been too severe, despite how they had originally looked. However, the doctor also reasoned that the man had been lucky, that his chest plate had been struck, rather than his side armour. But it had been the worst injury. His shoulder and thigh had been bruised badly but the impact on the chest had done more damage than had been thought, initially.

He stared down at the now seated Vulcan and in silence took out his tricorder, taking the wand from the top to start his scan. "How do you feel?" he asked pointedly, "you have been following my instructions in regards to light duty and light exercise?"


Savot sat calmly so as not to interfere with Nathan's scans, "I feel quite well Doctor, thank you. The dermal abrasions from the disruptor blast are nearly gone, and while the areas punctured by my chest plate when the blast caused it to concave inward are still sensitive, following the light duty you prescribed has resulted in their causing me no unbearable discomfort. I thank you for your care doctor; you seem quite capable at the healing arts."

Before he could continue, the main viewer came to life once again with the visage of Admiral Lisa Hayes, =^=Commodore Savot; my apologies for rushing your ship and crew back into service so quickly after your recent assignment, but there's a problem and we're the closest station capable of responding, and even undergoing the final stages of repair your ship's the best equipped for the job. Please gather as many of your senior staff as you can in your briefing room and I'll explain in 15 minutes. Hayes out.=^=

The screen showed space again as quickly as it had been usurped by the communication from the Admiral, but Savot knew from working with her that it was merely the need of the situation and not rudeness that spurred her to such abruptness. He tapped the intraship speakers even as Nathan continued to finish his check up, =^=Captain to all senior officers; please meet in the briefing room in 13.5 minutes, bridge out.=^=[/i]


(OOC: Modified with permission -Savot)
(OOC: me too -Gaz)

[Savot]

[15 Minutes later: El Salvador Briefing Room just off the bridge]


Since the Doctor hadn't needed him in sickbay, Savot saw no reason not to move immediately to the briefing room once the scans were complete. He wasn't surprised to see the rest of the staff arrive in a timely fashion either. None of them were completely new to the El Salvador, and Savot had found that this particular starship, illogical as it might be to think so, had a way of bringing out the best in her crew.

True to her word as well, Admiral Hayes appeared on time via the briefing room's viewscreen, her dark-blonde hair pulled back into a conservative bun that was now equal parts silvery gray, =^=Hello everyone, I apologize for the abruptness of this assignment but it's an unanticipated emergency and due to the unknown nature of the variables in play I feel the El Salvador is best equipped to look into it.=^=

As she entered controls on her console, the data on a standard looking freighter appeared in front of each officer's position on the computer surface of the briefing room table. =^=This is the independent transport Tillis. She was carrying a cargo of routine but needed medical supplies to Yantru 3 but she was due to arrive 2 days ago and we're unable to locate her. As stated, the supplies are in need on Yantru but not critically so the time isn't the primary concern here. The planet is a minor Federation territory with no particular strategic value so intentional interference would seem unlikely at first glance=^=, the Admiral began.

Other data was downloaded to the El Salvador for the crew to review and make use of as Hayes continued speaking, =^=There is the Tillis' cargo manifest and last confirmed coordinates before contact was lost. I recommend Commander Gaz try to access the navigational buoys in the area to rule out the possibility the Tillis may have simply gotten 'bad directions' for lack of the patience needed to use a more technical term. Commander Cohen your recent arrival is advantageous as well since if either the buoys or the transport have suffered damage your skills will needed to repair them. Doctor, none of the listed cargo are volatile by themselves but my medical expertise is limited so please determine if any could be harmful were they to combine and if so prepare the appropriate treatment if any. I've sent you all the data we have but if there are any questions I'll do my best to field them before you leave?=^=


<Tag Any/Everyone>

[Jamey Gaz]

~An independent transport, routine, this never bodes well~ Gaz thought while the Admiral was talking. Indeed most missions that have the word 'routine' anywhere in the description never turned out to be routine. That, however, was almost expected in this line of work. To think otherwise was foolish. Continuing his thought, ~then why send a Prometheus class star ship if this is indeed routine and a minor territory~ It wasn't like Gaz to doubt even in thought missions or orders but lately he had found himself doing just that. The longer he remained in Star Fleet the more he found himself second guessing the command - never out loud and never in front of lower ranking crew. He was looking forward to the logic of a Vulcan CO.

In reply to the Admiral's suggestion pertaining to the navigational buoys directed toward Savot, "Sir, I would recommend visiting those buoys." He had already referenced how many was in the area of the last known coordinates of the Tillis, "There are two, one on the way to and one on the way from those coordinates. Accessing directly would be the best if indeed they have been tampered with or damaged. The logs of the prior suggest it has not been serviced in a while and is not manned. The later is manned and has a filed report for this morning but that doesn't rule anything out mind you."

[Deleted]

.:.Kal Letta's Quarters.:.

James had needed to replace the entire replicator, as the previous one was in pieces throughout the quarters. The new one having just arrived after they had reconstructed the entire bulkhead on that particular side. He smiled as he knelt down to pick up the replicator, "One...two...three!" He said and on three the three engineers lifted the replicator and slid it into place.

=^=Captain to all senior officers; please meet in the briefing room in 13.5 minutes, bridge out.=^=

James smiled, "Understood Commander Cohen out!"

.:.Conference Room.:.

=^=There is the Tillis' cargo manifest and last confirmed coordinates before contact was lost. I recommend Commander Gaz try to access the navigational buoys in the area to rule out the possibility the Tillis may have simply gotten 'bad directions' for lack of the patience needed to use a more technical term. Commander Cohen your recent arrival is advantageous as well since if either the buoys or the transport have suffered damage your skills will needed to repair them. Doctor, none of the listed cargo are volatile by themselves but my medical expertise is limited so please determine if any could be harmful were they to combine and if so prepare the appropriate treatment if any. I've sent you all the data we have but if there are any questions I'll do my best to field them before you leave?=^=

James sat in silence listening as he was informed what his primary goal was. Repair the transport if it was located, as well as the navigational buoys if they had needed it. The ship wouldn't take too much to repair, but navigational buoys that was a different cup of tea all together. He tried hard to remember why he'd became an engineer in the first place, better yet he tried hard to remember why he'd joined Starfleet in the first place. He sighed under his breath so that nobody heard him, and continued to withhold the smile. He had became an engineer in order to fullfill a promise. As for joining the Fleet that still remained elusive to his memory.

James simply nodded, "Do we know the exact amount of damage to the buoys and the transport?"

(Tag)

[Valad Tavik]

Working through various repair details had proved to be quite the boring task as Valad moved to and fro among the El Salvador. He had been enlisted by the engineering department to assist in repairing power conduits on the decks surrounding the main computer core. It was a relatively easy, yet time consuming task, requiring the worker to flush the area, clean it, inspect it, and make any necessary repairs, finally reintegrating the section back into the power grid. He was in almost constant communication with the Engineering department and in the short few days he spent on the detail, had made a few more friends down in the depths of the ship. His next major task was an full diagnostic of all computer systems throughout the ship. The dirty work the crew could do, but it took very keen eyes to spot a lot of the problems that were always bound to be present. He had a good team in his department. Valad had noticed on his most recent check at the department roster that nearly seventy percent of his department were made up of enlisted crew. He was quite thankful that the cumulative experience would last several generations and that many of the Operations department were age thirty-five and up. Experience was key.

Valad had been closely monitoring his healing wound. He had remembered that Nathan insisted that should there be any pain he would be taken straight off duty to heal. That was an order Valad was eager to ignore. The doctor had done quite well in proverbially stitching him up, however as the days wore on, he was quite sore. Every day he went to bed, expecting the pain just needed to be slept into oblivion, but then waking up each morning to the stinging sensation of a stab wound. He looked at it every day, but didn’t notice any unusual discoloration or anything of the like. Valad just dismissed it and moved on.


(Briefing room – present)

Valad quietly walked in to the briefing room and sat in his usual chair. He didn’t really speak to anyone, which was unusual in itself, but kept relatively quiet. The Admiral appeared on the viewscreen and went through her briefing. It seemed to be a fairly simple search and if needed rescue, but one thing Valad noticed was that there were no specific orders for Valad. It didn’t bother him in the slightest since the new faces he didn’t recognize were more the topic of discussion. It would be beneficial to see what they knew and what they could do, so Valad just sat back on watched the show. All he could hope now was to remain unnoticed. He just might get lucky….

(Tag all)

[Savot]

Savot paid close attention to the Admiral's briefing, and was pleased to see the crew jump right in so to speak.

In reply to the Admiral's suggestion pertaining to the navigational buoys, Jamey directed his statements toward Savot, "Sir, I would recommend visiting those buoys. There are two, one on the way to and one on the way from those coordinates. Accessing directly would be the best if indeed they have been tampered with or damaged. The logs of the prior suggest it has not been serviced in a while and is not manned. The later is manned and has a filed report for this morning but that doesn't rule anything out mind you."

The vulcan captain nodded in agreement, "I concur Commander. Upon the briefing's completion plot a course for the first of the two buoys. While I agree that a direct interface is the best course of action, I want to use a shuttlecraft to do so as the El Salvador has had prior experience in contracting a computer virus left in the computer banks of a listening outpost we were sent to repair. If the same happens in this case the rest of the El Salvador will still be operational to rescue the shuttle's occupants. If you wish to pilot the shuttle yourself I will leave the selection of additional personnel to your discretion though I would recommend Commanders Cohen or Tavik."

<Gaz>

James Cohen simply nodded, "Do we know the exact amount of damage to the buoys and the transport?"

Admiral Hayes spoke again to field the question, =^=At the moment we're not even sure there is damage involved. All we have is a transport late on its delivery and no sign of where she went. Could be navigational error, pirate attack, one of the Q getting bored, or the Tillis crew going space-happy and plotting a course for Never-Never land.=^=

She shrugged, and from her expression it was clear that she didn't relish sending the El Salvador out with practically no idea of what they would be facing, =^=That's the main reason I'm sending you all in particular to investigate. Whatever the explanation ends up being, the El Salvador stands the best chance of dealing with whatever it is. We'll be in direct communications range until your past the first buoy if there's anything else we find out we'll let you know immediately. Godspeed people, come back safe.=^=

It wasn't very likely, but something the Admiral mentioned gave Savot an idea of something else to look into, and he turned to Nathan, "Doctor, Starfleet medical should have the latest evaluations for the crew of the Tillis; I doubt anything glaring would have been overlooked before they were sent on this courier mission but please check to see if anything could have been missed that might affect their behavior."

"Mr. Tavik, with Ms. Garrett's departure I'll want your experienced eyes on the sensors as we enter the Tillis' last known location. If she was attacked it was likely by marauders either equipped with sensor-dampening technology or utilizing some natural phenomenon in the local space to hide prior to their attack", Savot handed out the last of his starting orders, "Commander Roberts, let's maintain Yellow alert upon entering the area as a precaution. Any other questions?"

<Any final questions/comments from any/everyone>

"Very well, dismissed. Commander Gaz you may disembark from the station and engage your course for the first buoy as soon as it's plotted", Savot rose from the briefing table and re-entered the bridge amongst his crewmates.




(OOC: Will reply with additional comments from Admiral Hayes during the briefing if needed, but wanted to go ahead and get to the point where those who were ready could jump right into continuing forward in the mission.)

[Deleted]

=^=At the moment we're not even sure there is damage involved. All we have is a transport late on its delivery and no sign of where she went. Could be navigational error, pirate attack, one of the Q getting bored, or the Tillis crew going space-happy and plotting a course for Never-Never land.=^=

It was not the answer that he had been looking for, and now he also had to deal with an Ensign that seemed to have a difficult time not breaking his gear. There was lots of different reasons for the Tillis being MIA, "Perhaps Ensign Kal Letta was on board?" He muttered under his breath. Without another word the Commander left the briefing room behind the others.

They all had went to the bridge, the Chief Engineer however went elsewhere.

.:.Main Engineering.:.

Upon entering the engineering his excitement quickly vanished from his face. He seen a person swinging from the upper deck platform by some sort of optical cable. Upon further inspection it was Kal Letta who was blindfolded. Below her another junior engineer had a pole and was swinging away with each whoosh he heard the young woman yelp. The hell? He thought to himself, "You unstring that Ensign NOW!" He barked causing the other Ensign to jump out of his skin. "I WANT YOU BOTH IN MY OFFICE NOW!" He found himself yelling beneath the chin hair his face had turned bright red.

He heard a thump and seen them both scurry off into his office. "Lieutenant Blish!" He snapped turning around to see the Bolian engineer appear beside him as if on cue. James pulled the datapad from his pocket, "I need these modifications to be made to the sensor array!" His voice seeming slightly less aggressive.

"Understood sir."

He then tapped his communicator, "Ensign Dean Jackson this is Commander James Cohen please report to main engineering."

(Tag Jackson)

James turned to see the young man arrive he looked like his mother who James remembered vaguely having not really dealt with the woman often. "We may need to arrange for repair teams on several bouys and a frieghter that seems to have gone off the radar. I know you're new here but please arrange a team to lead in the repair efforts."

(Tag Jackson)

*edited by Jackson to add requested rank.

[Deleted]

Watching Savot walk into the briefing room, Nathan saw no point in going back to sickbay first. He packed up his medkit and stuffed the tricorder in the left pocket of his coat. He glanced around, briefly acknowledging some of the senior staff before claiming his seat.

Arms folded across his chest, he listened as several people spoke, then perked up when he was addressed - something he hadn't quite expected. "... Doctor, none of the listed cargo are volatile by themselves but my medical expertise is limited so please determine if any could be harmful were they to combine and if so prepare the appropriate treatment if any..."

Nathan inclined his head as he pondered on the orders. "Of course," he replied solemnly. "I will need a complete list of the cargo and I'll go over it with the science experts." The list intrigued him though, even though he was no chemical expert, he did have basic farmacology back in medical school. "How classified are the details?" he asked, "because I may require additional assistance. External assistance, that is."

[Jamey Gaz]

Jun 13, 2011 0:27:03 GMT Savot said:

" Commander Gaz you may disembark from the station and engage your course for the first buoy as soon as it's plotted", Savot rose from the briefing table and re-entered the bridge amongst his crewmates.

It was still exciting to hear any Captain say but even more so now he was home as it were on the El Sal. Smiling Gaz replied, “Yes, sir.”

Gaz left the room as the others were still discussing orders, tapping a few commands into his PaDD the plot for the first buoy was sent to the CONN station. The door hissed open and then did the same as it closed behind him. The bridge was busy with activity and the person of the watch had command but Gas was now the ranking officer on deck. “The Captain has given orders to disembark, ready your stations – alert all stations.” Gaz took the CONN and called up the status of the ship – all was ready. "Computer, undock program Gaz-beta-nine".

“USS El Salvador to flight control” after opening a channel.
“Flight control here”, a voice replied back over the communications system.
“Requesting permission to disembark,” Gaz responded.
“USS El Salvador, you are cleared to leave … you have free space for departure and God's speed

Gaz called for the turbo lift gantries to clear and then cleared the air locks of personnel for depressurization. Confirming that the umbilicals were closed and released, the RCS thruster system was activated.

“Thrusters are confirmed at station keeping - traffic is clear of any other ships and obstructions; releasing docking clamps.” A mufulled thud could be heard as the docking clamps released. The whine of the internal dampeners became audible reading for the movement.
“Bow thrusters back one-third”, as the ship began to slowly reverse from the dock. The ship was smaller than a Galaxy Class but was never the less an awe-inspiring sight to see. The formation lights were flashing as the deflector dish began to glow the familiar hue of blue.

Gaz turned the bow thrusters off as he gave the port bow thruster a quick pulse - turning the ship to line up the large space door’s center line beacon. The large doors began to flash its bright red clearance lights on either side. Looking down at the navigational sensors, Gaz used the thrusters to line up the ship.

“Aft thrusters ahead one-third”, as the controls responded as smooth as any ship he had piloted. The ship looked very streamline, like it would have very little wind resistance if air were present. People who were viewing from the dock’s inner view ports were all poised by the windows and couldn’t help but stare while watching this ship leave.

“We are clear of the doors, aft thrusters ahead to half”, Gaz reported with a grin, he loved his job. “We are clear of traffic, heading set; ahead at half impulse.”

After leaving the traffic pattern, Gaz increased to full impulse. Pulling up sensor information from the tactical station and overlaying over the navigational read-out he noticed they were clear of the system, "Clear for warp."

OFF
--- message to Commanders Cohen or Tavik ---
do either of you wish to do a joint post taking a shuttle to the first buoy ... finding what ever we find ?

[Savot]

"Clear for Warp", came the readiness report from Commander Gaz.

Savot nodded, once again seated in his chair, "Very good Mr. Gaz, you may engage Warp drive." The Prometheus class vessel stretched into faster than light speed on its way to the first Navigation buoy.

*****************************************************
[Buoy 1]


The El Salvador came out of warp and immediately got to work. "Mr. Tavik, scan the area. I want to confirm no immediate hostile presence before the shuttle team departs; but you may proceed with your preparations Commander Gaz", Savot spoke to his Ops chief and Helmsman in turn.

"If it shows signs of tampering, attempt to establish a patch into the buoy's internal sensors. It's possible the Doctor could determine the species of whoever was most recently aboard by analyzing trace particles in the Buoy's life support systems."


(OFF: I didn't have anything specific in mind with regards to his missions' details, so as always within reason, everyone's free to contribute to the developing plot if so inspired.)

[Deleted]

*Backpost*

“I don’t have a preference Captain, Counsellor or Lieutenant are both accurate.” Hannah replied. She really didn’t care some crew preffered to use rank when talking to her, perhaps in a small way in denial that they weren’t talking to a counsellor and others preferred to say Counsellor.

Hannah went silent for a moment as she contemplated the Vulcan’s offer to use him as a ‘test’ session. She smiled somewhat awkwardly. “Thank You Captain, I don’t normally grill my Commanding Officers when I first arrive unless circumstance deems it needed, and with all due respect.” She paused and her smile became less awkward. “Vulcan’s don’t make for interesting counselling subjects, and I have confidence if you were mentally unfit Captain Jackson would have relieved you of duty, so either your fit or good enough to fool a Betazoid at which case I’d never know.”

She stood up and took a deep breath. “Your promise you will seek me out should you feel the need is good enough until your scheduled yearly session is more than enough for me.”

**Present**

"Ensign Dean Jackson this is Commander James Cohen please report to main engineering."

Dean rolled over in bed and sighed, he had spent all the previous night constantly getting up to try and get James to go back to sleep. He yawned heavily as he pulled himself up into a siting position. “On my way Commander.” He replied as he rubbed his tired eyes.

**Engineering**

He had been asked to assemble a team to get ready to repair buoys and at least one freighter. He nodded heavily and took a deep breath. “Yes Commander, I’ll get them ready, I’ll need the information we have been provided regarding the class of freighter and buoy designs.”

<Tag Cohen>

“Yes, Commander.” Was his reply as he turned and walked over into the middle of Engineering, he didn’t know anybody and shrugged slightly as he pointed to a few and said. “You, You, You and You Congratulations you made the team.. Make sure a shuttle is stocked for a repair run.” He watched them walk off before himself walking to a computer terminal to pull up the information he would need.

[Deleted]

Savot re-read the transfer orders on the console in his Ready Room to make certain they were accurate. There had been a lot of personnel shuffling over the past weeks but it seems Command had a reason for it; as they usually do. Confident that he understood them correctly, the Vulcan tapped his combadge, "Savot to Doctor van Breughel. Please report to the Ready Room at your convenience."

“On my way sir,” the doctor replied, casting his husband a questioning look. “I wonder what that is about,” he murmured as he pulled his tunic over his head, then tugged it down. “I'll be back shortly.” He kissed the man quickly, then headed out. A few minutes later, he walked into the readyroom. “You wished to see me sir?”

Savot stood at Nathan's entrance, indicating the opposite chair as he himself sat back down, "Yes, thank you Doctor. Abrupt as it no doubt seems, Command has issued transfer orders for your family to the starship Rainier. They have need of a Counselor and it would appear your recent assignments have been chosen in advance to prepare you for such a posting."

Nathan blinked in surprise. “Counselor sir?” He didn't feel ready for that yet. “But...” He felt the need to protest as he looked the Vulcan square in the eyes. “I don't want to leave here, this is my home now.”

Savot nodded as he clasped his hands together atop his desk, "Understandable Doctor, and ultimately the transfer won't be forced on you. I am pleased you found a place to fit here; your assistance on our last mission was instrumental in achieving success with minimal casualties. However, while my familiarity with the Rainier as a whole is limited, and your own contact with Captain Jackson was under less than ideal circumstances; I can assure you she is one of the finest officers I've had the privilege of serving with. I believe you would be able to work well with her. You likewise handled an extremely serious mission while maintaining your focus in the field, so I don't believe the duties of a Counselor would be beyond you in the slightest. Still, as stated you may refuse."

“It would be good practice,” the doctor mused as he sank down in the chair opposite of the desk, “I have just received word that I am granted a license to practice.” He smiled thinly. “I have been studying sir, as you might be aware. Which was why I seemed a little...overworked?”

The captain's brow arched in slight surprise before he shook his head slightly, "If so, it wasn't apparent in your performance. Regardless of your decision, I congratulate you on obtaining your license. We should always work to expand and better ourselves rather than taking satisfaction solely in past accomplishments. I cannot make the decision for you Doctor, but I've gathered the personnel files of the Rainier's senior staff and sent them to your office console should you wish to review them and make a more informed decision."

“That'd not be ethical,” Nathan answered as he shook his head, “I shouldn't base my decision on their necessity for a counselor. The reason I am happy here is because ever since my arrival I haven't suffered any health issues.” He looked away briefly. “The ones I suffered while on the Jefferson, and my greatest fear is that it'll happen again. I can't do that to Jayden, or our children.”

"I didn't mean for you to assess their mental states, but to ascertain whether the environment created by their staff is one where you and your family could flourish, please pardon the misunderstanding", Savot explained, "Though, logically speaking, there is no aspect to the El Salvador that should render any healthier than any other starship as all the environmental systems have the same technological base. Forgive me, it's not my intention to argue you off the ship; but I do wish to ensure that if you remain you do not do so on tenuous reasoning."

“You're not the first Vulcan to tell me that,” Nathan smiled, “my sister has said so many times but I'm not buying it. How much time do I have, before I have to report for departure?” He might as well try this new assignment, now that he had a chance to play counselor, he might as well grab the opportunity to put what he had learned into practice. It was now just a matter of convincing his family that it was time to move on. Such was the life of a Starfleet officer, he mused, shaking his head to his own inside joke.

"Nothing in the El Salvador's assignment necessitates a rushed departure, but I understand the Rainier is currently on a non-divertable mission travelling at high warp", Savot explained, "Ergo the longer the departure takes, the longer it will take to catch up to her. You are free to take one of the El Salvador's shuttles; we'll requisition a replacement upon completing our current assignment."

“Neither I nor Jayden are qualified pilots,” Nathan commented, “I would request a pilot, then he or she can return the shuttle to you when we are delivered to the Rainier. Is that acceptable sir?”

Savot nodded, "Certainly; given Commander Gaz' presence we're able to spare one of the other pilots and I'm sure they'll have no qualms with the assignment to transport your family safely to the Rainier." The captain then stood again offering the vulcan hand salute, "If I may doctor; even briefly, it was an honor to serve with you. Peace and long life to you and yours."

Nathan returned the salute without effort, after rising to his feet as well. “Live long and prosper,” he returned. “it was an honour serving with you sir, even though we never got to spend much time together. Please listen to anyone who replaces me, and don't overdo yourself on any exercises for a while. Your injuries are still fresh and still need frequent check-ups.”

Savot bowed his head, impressed that the Doctor would still focus on his patient's condition even while digesting such a drastic life change, "Indeed I will Doctor, thank you."

This time, the doctor smiled. “Goodbye sir,” he finally spoke, before walking out of the office. He and his family needed to start packing and leave the El-Salvador as soon as possible, before the Rainier was too far away to catch up.

[Deleted]

Though the ride in the escape pod had been far from fun, the ride on the starship had been all the more comfortable. The family had been granted passage by use of one of the guest quarters and the trip to catch up with the USS El-Salvador had been uneventful. The El-Salvador was currently not showing as being in flight, but rather being stationary around some buoy, as the ships gossip had it.

S'reena gathered her children and this time actually made a literal headcount, making sure she had all her offspring with her. She smiled up at Michael, who was certain he'd not seen her this thrilled in a long while. "We're going home honey," he reassured her, "in a few minutes, we'll be home."

The Romulan smiled back at him, taking Yarna firmly by the hand, while Kahlan picked up one of her brothers and Michael carried the other two. As soon as they were on board the El-Salvador, Michael and Kahlan took the boys and Kyala to the quartermaster to see about their new quarters, which he knew would likely be the XO's quarters, which were generally bigger than any standard size quarters.

S'reena, however, took Yarna on a little walk around the ship, looking up old friends, among which Delbridge who seemed happy to see them both again. Of course, Firestorm was also mighty happy to see his Romulan friend again and his tail snaked forward to wrap around her wrist in greeting the moment she walked into sickbay - something that was an oddity and a rare sight at best as it was well known she had an uncanny fear for sickbays. S'reena smiled and felt him tense as she hugged him. "No claws," she reminded him.

"No claws, but a good temper," Firestorm chuckled as his paw ruffled Yarna's hair. "So all of you are back now? Family complete? No-one left behind?"

"All here," S'reena confirmed with a genuine smile, while Yarna giggled at the giant cat. "Michael's gone to sort quarters while I take this little one here to the bridge. I think there's someone she'd like to see."

Firestorm made a good impression of a smile, while his tail coiled up tightly. "Go then, can't keep a Vulcan waiting."

Mother and daughter left sickbay and boarded the first turbolift they found and got to the bridge. S'reena had no time to warn her daughter about proper behaviour on the bridge as the girl stormed out the second the door was opened enough for her to slip through. "Captain!" the girl cried out as she flew at him.

Rolling her eyes, S'reena followed at a more sedate pace and stopped a few feet away from him. "Commander S'reena Hope, reporting for duty sir," she announced, making no effort to free the poor Vulcan from her daughter's hug.

(savot)