Mission 6: Repercussions

[Andrew Kirk]

“Sir, we are now in weapons range of the enemy ships. Shall I fire?”

Kirk watched the main viewing screen as everything turned into slow motion. It was as if he suddenly had all the time in the world to make the right choice.

“Helm, continue on our course of the cargo ship. Stand by to fire.” Kirk ordered.

“Aye sir.” Was the collective reply on the bridge.

The tension on the bridge was tense, everybody was on the edge of their seats, just waiting to see what the Romulans would do. Kirk feared that they wouldn’t hesitate to fire, after all they were in fact at war. The chance to fight two on one against another starship doesn’t come everyday. He knows that he would take the chance if he was in the Romulans shoes.

“Sir, I’m getting something on the long range scanners.” Announced the JR Science Officer.

“What is it?” Kirk asked.

“I’m picking up two ships dropping out of warp at the edge of the system sir,” The Science officer looked harder into his scanning scope and finally his face broke into a big smile, “Their ours sir!”

Kirk quickly looked up and just as the Science Officer announced the arrival of the friendly starships the Romulans began to peel off. With in a few moments they had gone to warp, leaving their one disabled ship to fend for herself.

Beeping started to come from the Science Officers scope; he looked back down into it as intensely as he could. When he came back up he brought with him a look of sheer shock.

“What’s the matter?” Kirk asked.

“The two ships, they just…disappeared.”

Kirk couldn’t help but smile; he knew that somebody on the Romulan ship had just thrown the biggest Cosmic Curveball he had ever seen. Pushing the COM button on the chair, Kirk began instructing the transporter chief to bring back each of the strike team members.

“Once all of the strike team members are back on board set a course back to friendly space.” Kirk said.

“Aye sir.” Replied the Helm Officer.

“You have the bridge.” Kirk said to the Armory Officer. He walked quickly off the bridge into the lift and took it down a few decks. He needed to check on the Captain at once.

The walk wasn’t long but it seemed long as he thought about the possibility that Nelson might come back on duty. The chance that he could again endanger the lives of the crew again didn’t sit well with Kirk.

Walking into sickbay he saw Nelson lying in the fetal position on one of the far beds. Kirk could hear him mumbling something over and over again but he couldn’t quite make it out.

“How is he?” Kirk asked the approaching Doctor.

”He’s not fit for Command.” Replied T’Kara.

“Then who’s going to command the ship now?” Kirk asked.

T’Kara raised her eyebrow at Kirk in a curious manner. She seemed confused by his line of questions, he was the only senior officer on board and she knew that logic dictated that he assumed command until a new Captain was assigned.

“It would appear that you are.” T’Kara replied.

“Lieutenant Kirk,” Kirk heard from the wall speaker.

Kirk walked quickly over to the wall communicator and pushed the return button, “Go ahead.”

“Chief White reports that he has transported both strike teams back to the ship, casualties are on their way to sickbay.”

“Roger.” Kirk replied and closed the channel.

“Looks like you and Nurse Bylen are going to be busy.” Kirk said as he walked out of Sickbay.

Knowing that he had nowhere else to go, Kirk headed back to the bridge. He was excited to hear that everybody had come back from this daring mission and he had also hoped that none of his friends were apart of the wounded few.

<TAG ALL>

[Andrew Kirk]

Kirk had made his way back onto the bridge. When he arrived he saw Jack standing at his normal station, as well as Saryn. They looked worst for wear but still fit for duty.

"What's our heading?" Kirk asked.

"We are heading to a nearby Vulcan outpost." Replied the Helm Officer.

Kirk stood in the back of the bridge, not sure if he should just assume command. He had never been onboard any other ships, let along a ship that lost its Commanding Officer because he was mentally unfit for duty. These were definitely uncharted waters for the Chief Engineer, as well as for the rest of the crew.

"Commander Nelson has been relieved of Command, T'Kara found him mentally unfit for duty, “Kirk finally said, "I took command of the Challenger when I came back onboard. If there are no objections I shall do so until we hear from Starfleet Command." He judged the expressions of his fellow department heads and noticed that none of them seemed to have any objections. They seemed more concerned with getting home than who was in command at this point.

<TAG ALL>

[Deleted]

Saryn stood behind his usual station at tactical, feeling somewhat ill at ease. They were going to a Vulcan outpost, and as a Vulcan civillian he would have to account for his actions in Earth's past. He found himself dreading his eminent future, and much to his own annoyance he had to admit to himself that he was afraid. However he showed none towards his crewmates, that much was his resolve to do right.

Not only was he ill at ease about his future, currently he also felt ill at ease with his crewmates, all but one. The only one who had not changed his behaviour towards him since the incident had been Jack Logan, though Andew Kirk had also shown some normal behaviour. Well normal for him as Saryn knew Kirk had reason to dislike Vulcans.

"As tactical officer, I have no objections," Saryn spoke long after Kirk had finished speaking. He stepped down to the command centre to face the chief engineer. "You fought off the Romulan vessels on your own," he continued, "while the commanding officer proved what a coward he is and how unfit for command. You have proven yourself to be skilled at making command decisions. Would they give permanent command of this vessel to you, I would proudly serve with you again."

The Vulcan stood at attention, with his hands clasped behind his back, gazing into Kirk's eyes with only a slight hint of amusement. "Also, I believe we have uncovered a major ploy here. The Romulans seem to be using Vulcans aboard their vessels, to avoid showing their true identity. Not only are their vessels termed 'bird of prey', but they have proven to be true birds of prey themselves. It is unfortunate that their vessel exploded shortly after the landing party was transported back to Challenger."

[Andrew Kirk]

"As tactical officer, I have no objections," Saryn spoke long after Kirk had finished speaking. He stepped down to the command centre to face the chief engineer. "You fought off the Romulan vessels on your own," he continued, "while the commanding officer proved what a coward he is and how unfit for command. You have proven yourself to be skilled at making command decisions. Would they give permanent command of this vessel to you, I would proudly serve with you again."

Kirk had a long-standing hatred of the Vulcan race but time and time again his feelings toward them had started to change the longer he had served with Saryn.

“Thank you Saryn,” Kirk said extending his hand out for Saryn to shake, “That means a lot to me.”

[Deleted]

Only being away from the Challenger for a couple of hours was nothing new to the communications officer, but he had never been happier to be inside her once again. He knew that as long as he was within her walls he was relatively safe.

Jack was about to give out his orders, but there was no need. Medical crews were waiting for the injured and messages where relayed to the senior staff.

"Where's the git?" Jack asked looking for Nelson.

"Git, sir?" the crewman asked.

"Nelson, Robert Nelson," Jack said in a fake groan which caused the crewmen to smile and stifle his laugh. "We'll be on the bridge."

Jack would wait to talk to the Nelson and he would make sure to show his displeasure. He no longer cared if he got court martial. He was going to punch him squarely in the face and probably kick him a few times.

"Where's the captain?" Jack asked when he reached the bridge.

"He's on his way," the junior officer reported.

"Alright," Jack said as he took his stationed and contacted the Atlantis and Endeavor, thanking them for the support. He knew that it hadn't been easy to come after them. Especially with experienced crews needed on the front lines.

"Commander Nelson has been relieved of Command, T'Kara found him mentally unfit for duty, “Kirk finally said, "I took command of the Challenger when I came back on board. If there are no objections I shall do so until we hear from Starfleet Command." He judged the expressions of his fellow department heads and noticed that none of them seemed to have any objections. They seemed more concerned with getting home than who was in command at this point.

~Thank God, its not me~ Jack joked to himself. Andy had just proven something that he knew all along. He knew that Andy was capable of taking command if push came to shove.

"As long as you don't cancel any of my parties, then I'm okay," Jack said as he took his seat and waited for orders.

[Deleted]

Saryn half-smiled at that comment, but quickly recomposed himself. "I am certain that Commander Kirk will allow your parties," he commented, "especially if they are for entertainment of the crew and to maintain morale on this vessel."

The Vulcan raised an eyebrow at both officers. "Not to mention that the commander enjoys these parties too much himself." Again he nearly smiled. "Especially this beverage you called beer. I really cannot fathom what you both like about this beverage, it is alcoholic, bitter and has no definable taste."

As he had hoped, that comment drew an exhasperated sigh from both men. "Commander, permission to retire to my quarters? I may be Vulcan but even I need sleep from time to time. And Doctor T'Kara ordered me to take it easy since I was struck on the head while trying to repair a communications console."

Though he felt good in general, he was still suffering from a slight headache. T'Kara hadn't given him anything for it as she had commented that his own bio control should take care of the ache. As he had no chance yet to meditate, not even since returning from the past, Saryn knew that bio control would take a fair amount of energy to take place.

"Additionally, I would like to invite you for a game of what I believe is called poker? I have learned that this is both a chance and strategic game...and I would like the opportunity to master this game."

[Andrew Kirk]

"Additionally, I would like to invite you for a game of what I believe is called poker? I have learned that this is both a chance and strategic game...and I would like the opportunity to master this game."

Kirk smiled and looked in Jack's direction after Saryn spoke. They had both invited Saryn along before in hopes that he would loosen up but now after all their tries it was Saryn who decided to invite them to a poker game.

"How can we say no to that?" Kirk said with a large grin on his face, "What do you say Jack?"

"Sounds like we are back to our normal Poker Nights." Jack replied.

"Good, then it's settled. Lets go ahead and have it in my quarters tonight around 2200 hours when we are off." Kirk said sitting down in the command chair.

He watched as the other officers went about their buisness. As he sat there he began to ponder his place, he was always behind Jack in promotions but it was him who ended up assuming command. He was going to make sure and have a talk with Starfleet Command the first chance he got about it.

"Andy," Jack stated after a few beeps from his console, "We are recieving a message from Starfleet. Should I patch it through to the ready room?"

"Yeah, sure." Kirk said not really knowing what to do.

Kirk walked quickly off the bridge and into the Captain's ready room. Walking in he quickly took the seat on the other side of the Captain's seat. It was then that he noticed that the monitor didn't turn around to face the other way. Kirk jumped up and moved quickly around to the other chair. Pushing a few commands into the keypad Kirk waited for an image to appear.

Much to Kirk's surprise it was Admiral Gardner, "Lieutenant, I've requested to speak with Commander Nelson."

"Commander Nelson is no longer in command sir." Kirk replied, "He was found to be mentally unfit for command."

"By whom?" Fired the Admiral.

"The Chief Medical Officer aboard this ship sir." Kirk replied trying to keep from enraging the Admiral.

"Who's in command then?" Gardner asked.

"I am sir."

Admiral Gardner leaned back in his chair, his expression showed that of somebody conecrned wtih the situation in front of them. After a few moments of silence be leaned forward back into an upright sitting position.

"I will expect a full report when you return." Gardner ordered.

"Of course sir. I'll get started on it right away.

"And what of the mission?" Gardner asked, eager to hear what they had learned.

"The mission was a complete failure sir," Kirk stated matter of factly, "Commander Nelson led us into Romulan space, attacked a damaged Vulcan ship and sent two boarding parties over to a dead ship. We found out that the Vulcan ship was infact a trap ship and the Challenger was attacked by three Romulan ships. Commander Nelson retreated back into the Nebula cloud and left the two assulting teams behind."

"What about the intel I ordered Commander Nelson to retrieve?" Gardner asked sounding more upset.

"We were never ordered to gather any intellegence sir." Kirk said.

"What?"

"Yes sir. Nelson ordered us to assult and capture the ship with out any other orders." Kirk replied.

Gardner sat back in his chair once again and didn't speak for several moments. Again as before he returned to his upright sitting position to speak, "I see you are on corse to a Vulcan station."

"Yes sir."

"Good. Gather any supplies and repairs you might need. I'll contact you from there. Gardner out."

The screen went black before Kirk could reply. He wasn't sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing and he knew only time would tell.

[Andrew Kirk]

Acting Captain’s Starlog:

The Challenger is on her way back to a nearby Vulcan space station for a much needed R&R. The last few weeks have been nothing less than interesting. Commander Nelson was promoted to Acting Captain after Captain Adams left. Nelson’s tenure didn’t last as long as Adams because he became too overwhelmed in the midst of battle. When I returned from the derelict Vulcan cargo ship I found the bridge with out a Captain and learned rather quickly that the Doctor had removed Nelson from Command.

I’ve assumed Command of the Challenger until we hear otherwise from Starfleet. I’m worried that my relationship with the crew and especially the senior officers is going to make it hard for me to put their lives into danger. I doubt that is what Starfleet is looking for, a reluctant Commander.

End Log.

Kirk sat back in his chair. The Captain’s ready room still looked and felt as if it belonged to Captain Adams; and in Kirk’s mind it did.

“Sir, we have reached the Vulcan station.” Kirk heard over the COM.

Pushing a small button on the desk Kirk replied, “Roger. Start the docking sequence.”

“Yes sir.”

Kirk rose to his feet and walked out of the ready room and back onto the bridge. In front of him on the viewing screen was the massive station. For Kirk this had been the first time he had ever seen a docking sequence performed while on the bridge. Normally all he was able to look at was sensor readings on a monitor.

After a few minutes the Challenger was docked with the station. Kirk had given the crew passes to the station and informed them to check back regularly just in case the Challenger needed to leave.

“Captain, the station commander wishes to meet you and your staff members.” Said a Vulcan station member.

“As he wishes.” Kirk said.

Just as Kirk was about to leave the bridge Jack heard the beeps of an incoming communication. Jack rushed over to his station and decoded the transmission.

“Andy, it’s Admiral Gardner he is requesting to speak with you.” Jack said.

“OK. Do me a favor and you and Saryn meet with the station commander. Please inform him that I will be there at once.” Kirk said.

<Tag Jack and Saryn>

Walking back into the ready room Kirk again sat down at the monitor and opened the channel with Admiral Gardner.

“Admiral, it’s good to see you again.” Kirk said hoping some pleasantries would loosen the man’s rough exterior.

“Lieutenant, I received your full report and I’m surprised to read everything you had put down in your report. I hope you can back up these claims about Commander Nelson.”

“I can sir.” Kirk replied.

“That’s a shame them. He was a good officer.”

“With all due respect sir, he was a lousy officer.” Kirk said.

Admiral Gardner sat in stunned silence. Kirk thought for a split second that his career was over but just as he was starting to sweat Gardner broke out in a slight chuckle.

“I like an officer who isn’t afraid to speak his mind,” Gardner said, “As of this time I’m placing you in Command of the Challenger. She’s all yours Commander.”

“Sir?” Kirk replied in a questionable tone.

“That’s right son. You’ve just been promoted to Lt. Commander. Starfleet regulations state that one must obtain the rank of Lt. Commander before he can take command of his own ship. Not it’s official.”

“Thank you sir.” Kirk replied with a smile.

“Enjoy some well deserved time off Commander and I’ll get a hold of you with your next assignment. Gardner out.”

[Deleted]

Saryn wasn't surprised when he heard Garner announce Kirk's promotion to captain. What he was surprised about, was being asked to come along. Surely there had to be a catch to that?

He glanced sideways at Jack, who looked equally unsurprised. "I propose we celebrate your promotion, captain Kirk," Saryn suggested, as he turned to leave the room. They hadn't been formally dismissed, even though Garner had wished them a good shoreleave. Then all of a sudden the screen went blank. ~we are dismissed then~ Saryn thought idly, though somewhere relieved.

They hadn't been in contact much with starfleet command, ever since their return from the past, and Saryn was still dreading any action against him. ~dread is illogical~ he tried to tell himself, as he left Kirk's office and walked back to his own station.

"Powering down weapons and shields," he announced, since they were in dock anyway, "and preparing to shut down tactical for repairs and maintenance."

[Deleted]

~I have to call him Captain now. Fat chance~ Jack mused to himself as he congratulated his best friend on his promotion. He had ordered them to meet with the base commander, but they thought it prudent for their commanding officer to do the honors.

"I guess this means no more beer for you," Jack said as he entered the lift alongside Saryn and Andy," your the captain now. You have to set the example."

<Tag Andy and Saryn>

The trio slowly made their way onto the base to meet with the base commander. They wanted to enjoy this bit of good news for as long as possible. Admiral Gardner had approved some R&R, but they all knew it wouldn't last long. Challenger would be on the front lines soon enough.

"Andy, it seems that we have a new chief engineer," Jack said remembering the transfer orders that had come in," we'll be picking him up here."

<Tag Andy Saryn and Michael>

[michaelwallace]

Michael was wandering the corridors of the Vulcan Space Station. This was to be his first ‘real’ assignment he had been brought to the Vulcan space station onboard a Vulcan Ship that had taken him from Earth. He had hoped to have a look at the Vulcan engines, being an Engineer he was curious to sneak a look at Vulcan technology. However, the Vulcans being the wet blankets that they were wouldn’t allow him to have a look at the engines. He chuckled to himself...

Michael was bored stiff on the Vulcan Station he had been waiting for 2 weeks for the Challenger to arrive and was looking forward to getting aboard. He had just been informed of the Challenger’s arrival and was to meet the Base Commander before meeting the CO of the Challenger. The Base Commander was an old Vulcan called Vorik, he didn’t seem to appreciate Michael’s presence on the Base, probably because he asked too many illogical questions or cracked too many jokes. Michael sat in the meeting room on the Base waiting for his new CO to arrive.

Moments later, 3 Starfleet officers entered the meeting room. 2 humans and a Vulcan. Michael jumped out of his chair and announced:
“Acting Ensign Michael Wallace reporting for duty Sirs.”

<tag Andy/Jack/Saryn>

[Andrew Kirk]

Kirk stepped out of his ready room and saw that Jack and Saryn were both still on the bridge. He was happy they hadn’t headed off to the station yet; Jack could probably already tell the news was good by the smirk on Kirk’s face.

“It’s official.” Kirk said as he walked onto the bridge.

"I guess this means no more beer for you," Jack said as he entered the lift alongside Saryn and Andy," you’re the captain now. You have to set the example."

“I do?” Kirk joked.

“Yeah you do.” Jack replied while giving Kirk a pat on the back.

“Oh, alright.” Kirk said in a child like tone.

The three officers stepped on to the Vulcan station, Kirk noticed Saryn seemed preoccupied by something while Jack kept his face glued to a PDA.

"Andy, it seems that we have a new chief engineer," Jack said remembering the transfer orders that had come in," we'll be picking him up here."

“That was fast,” Kirk said.

“There is a war on, speed is efficient.” Saryn said.

“Good point.”

Kirk couldn’t help but feel a little bad, he had a few friends down in Engineering that were perfect candidates for the job. After a brief thought, Kirk figured that was why they sent a replacement officer; friends promoting friends was never a good thing.

“Here we are,” Jack pointed out, “After you Captain.” Jack stated on a near mocking tone.

Kirk smiled, and delivered a small jab to Jack’s chest before opening the door. Sitting in front of them were four Vulcan officers and one lone Starfleet Ensign.

“Acting Ensign Michael Wallace reporting for duty Sirs.”

“Good to meet you Wallace, I’m Lieutenant…Lt.Commander Kirk. To my right is the ships Chief Medical Officer Saryn, and to my left is the ship Chief Communications Officer Jack Logan.” Kirk said as he motioned to each officer.

“Please have a seat.” Said one of the standing Vulcan.

As Kirk sat down he felt funny. He had just gotten his promotion as Acting Captain but he was still wearing his Engineering duty uniform with his old ranks on them. He knew he was going to have a hard time wearing the ‘Golds’ as the Engineers called them.

“Admiral Gardner informed us of your arrival. He sent this in advance.” The Vulcan Base Commander slid a PDA in Kirks direction.

Kirk pulled it closer to him and quickly looked over the details. Saryn hit the nail on the head, Kirk thought, There’s a war on and all available ships are needed at the front.

“Thank you.” Kirk said standing up. He placed the PDA in one of his cargo pockets before the other officers joined him.

“You may take all the supplies you need before you depart.”

“Thank you.” Kirk replied, “Lets go.” Kirk turned on his heels and walked out of the room with Jack, Wallace, and Saryn in tow.

Once the door closed Kirk knew it was time to start giving out orders, “Michael I need you to report to the Challenger and make sure all the repairs are going according to specifications. Jack I need you to over see all incoming supplies on this PDA you will find everything the Vulcans are giving us. Saryn I need you to come with me.”

<TAG ALL>

OFF: Once we square away the ship we will head into our new mission.

[michaelwallace]

“Michael I need you to report to the Challenger and make sure all the repairs are going according to specifications. Jack I need you to over see all incoming supplies on this PDA you will find everything the Vulcans are giving us. Saryn I need you to come with me.”

“Yes Sir” Said Michael as he hurried off to board the Challenger he quickly made a detour to grab his possessions from his temporary quarters on the Vulcan Base. He knew the plans of the NX class starship like the back of his hand. He had always dreamt on serving aboard one and this was his chance. Once aboard the Challenger there were officers moving everyway around Michael, he assumed they were loading supplies and making sure the ship was ready for departure.

Finally, Michael reached D Deck. He decided to head for Main Engineering before finding his quarters. He slammed his bag filled with his clothes and possessions onto the floor as he reached Main Engineering. There were several engineers running passed Michael who were not taking much notice of him.

“Can I have everyone’s attention”
The engineers paused and stared.

“I am Michael Wallace, the Challenger’s new Chief Engineer, could I have progress updates on the Engines and any damaged systems needing repaired. Thank you!”

One of the Engineers passed the requested information to Michael on a PDA. “Thank you, now whats your name Ensign?” Replied Michael

“Ensign Neil Riggs, Sir”

“Nice to meet you Neil, I’m Mike – If you would inform the rest of the Engineering team of my appointment it may help with the transition.”

“Yes, Sir” Replied Riggs as continued with what he was doing.

Michael leaned on the wall and reviewed the PDA of how the repairs were coming along. Hull plating was operational and at optimal efficiency as were the Engines. This made Michael’s job much easier, he decided to review the duty schedules and review the systems to ensure everything was fully operational for his update to the Captain.

OOC: I hope this is okay

[Deleted]

Saryn stopped dead in his tracks after Kirk called his name and turned on his heels. "Sir?" He had just been about to head to sickbay and take an inventory since he had no idea what T'Kara had in stock before she transferred off the Challenger. "I have to get to sickbay, take an inventory and talk to the nursing staff."

Kirk shook his head in response. "That can wait." The new commanding officer looked hesistant for a moment. "Er, how do I address you now?"

Saryn almost smiled. "Doctor will do," he answered, "after all I have a medical degree, and I utilised our shoreleave to take a few refresher courses aboard the starbase."

Kirk smiled, still somewhat uncomfortable. "Doctor it is then. Your inventory can wait for now. How did you know about the war?"

"It is quite evident," Saryn answered, "the Vulcans aboard the Romulan vessel, the other two Romulan vessels that attacked us. Is it not evident enough? The Romulans are waging war on the Federation, and we are called out to the frontier because we already have encountered them."

As he talked, the Vulcan walked with the newly appointed commanding officer. "If I may ask, where are we going, and why am I singled out to come with you? I am certain a new tactical officer shall be appointed soon. I am needed in sickbay."

[Andrew Kirk]

“It is a matter of security that I’m pulling you aside.” Kirk said.

He could tell that Saryn was looking for a straight answer and even so this shadow play wasn’t working for Kirk either. Looking around the Vulcan base, Kirk checked to make sure the coast was clear before he spoke.

“It concerns our next mission,” Kirk said pulling out the PDA, “Starfleet wants us to head to this planet, observe it close up to see if it is ripe for First Contact. The brass would love to have a friendly planet in his region.” Kirk said showing Saryn the star chart.

“My question remains,” Saryn, said, “What do you need me for?”

“We need supplies for the procedure to alter our appearance slightly. Can you get them?” Kirk asked.

<TAG Saryn>

[michaelwallace]

Michael decided that everything was running smoothly in Main Engineering so he now wanted to find his quarters. He had requested his quarters on Deck D so that he would never be far from Engineering. Michael turned to Riggs the only engineer he knew and said:

“Riggs, I’ll be in my quarters. Then I’m going to take a look at key systems for myself. If the Captain requests an update its all on this PDA.” Michael passed the PDA to Riggs.

“Very good sir, do you need a tour of key systems or do you know where they are?” Inquired Riggs

“Ensign, I studied the schematics of the NX class for weeks whilst I was stuck on the Vulcan base. But just in case I need help I have the schematics on my PDA.” Replied Michael with a smile as he strode out of Engineering.

His quarters were no more than 10 metres from the entrance to Main Engineering. Michael lay on the bed as soon as he got in just to let everything sink in. He couldn’t believe he was the Chief Engineer on a starship, he stood up strongly took a picture out of his bag of his mother and 2 brothers who were back on earth and sat it on the desk. He then spun on his heel and headed to have a look at the warp nacelles.

He went up a couple of decks then had to use the nacelle access tunnels to get right up to the nacelles and have a closer look. He noticed some engineers working on the nacelles, he didn’t want to disturb them but they noticed him and turned round.

“I assume you are our new Chief Engineer!” The engineer said staring straight at him…

“Yes Mike Wallace. I was just coming up to see if the nacelles were undamaged and operating efficiently.”

“They are working efficiently, but we are just trying to get a little more out of them.”

“Let me have a go, pass me your tools.” Michael was trying to show he was very hands on. The engineer obliged and handed him his tools.
Since a kid Michael had loved taking things apart this included warp nacelles. Michael tightened a few screws and adjusted the position of the warp coil: “That ought to do it.”

The engineer looked at him with a raised eyebrow, almost not believing that it was possible. So he checked and ran some tests. The warp nacelle was at optimal efficiency, Michael just smiled and said “Carry on then.” And went off to review other key systems.

Michael had got lucky there, and got to showboat a little any Engineer could have did it. If they knew where to look... That didn't matter he was hoping he had made the right impression on his Engineers.

[Deleted]

Scanning the list on the PDA, Saryn nodded. "I should have all the required equipment in storage," he answered, "though I do not have a..." He paused as he scrolled through the list and pointed at the item. "The name is so alien, I cannot begin to pronounce it," he explained as he highlighted the item. "Once I have this, it should not be a problem."

The Vulcan tucked the PDA away in the pocket of his labcoat. "Was that all captain?" he enquired, "we still have a...date...for poker, correct? Perhaps we should invite the new chief engineer as well? I was headed down sickbay to make proper acquaintance with him, and direct him to sickbay for his check-up."

At Kirk's nod, Saryn turned and took the nearest lift down to engineering. He found the human showing his skills off towards some of the junior crew. "Ensign Wallace?" Saryn called, drawing the newcomer's attention while he approached. "We have met briefly earlier. I am Doctor Saryn, ship's chief medical officer. I have not yet received your medical files from the academy, but I would like to make certain for myself that you are not a hazard to this crew. Please come with me to sickbay, it will not take long."

[Deleted]

"Commander thats the last of it," Ensign Wyatt said as he lowered the last of the food rations in Cargo Bay 1.

"Good," Jack replied as he headed towards the second cargo bay. The Vulcan's had graciously given them all the supplies they could ever need. They had recieved enough materials to last them almost an entire year. What he didn't expect were the upgraded torpedoes. There explosive yield had been expanded five fold and there targeting scanners were the most advance in the fleet.

"Thank you Velek," Jack said to his Vulcan counterpart," the materials you have provided is much appreciated."

"There is no need for thanks, Commander, we are allies after all," Velek responded as he excused himself and headed back to the base.

=^=Andy.... I mean Captain, the Challenger has been restocked. We are ready to go as soon as you are ready=^=

[michaelwallace]

"Ensign Wallace?"
Michael heard someone call his name from behind him, he turned to see the Vulcan officer he had been briefly introduced to earlier on the base. ‘Oooh brother’ Michael thought to himself, what have I done… hoping he hadn’t made a mistake already.

The Vulcan then announced:
"We have met briefly earlier. I am Doctor Saryn, ship's chief medical officer. I have not yet received your medical files from the academy, but I would like to make certain for myself that you are not a hazard to this crew. Please come with me to sickbay, it will not take long."

“Ahh yes, Dr. Saryn. I remember our meeting briefly on the Vulcan station.”
As Michael held out his hand to greet his fellow senior officer. Saryn rejected shaking Michael’s hand, which was of no surprise to Michael. All the vulcans on the base had sort of ignored him and Michael had thought this vulcan to be different. Michael was not ofended it was an earth custom and Saryn was not from Earth so it was fair enough.

“Now Dr Saryn, I realise you have a job to do but couldn’t I continue examining the ships systems and leave the medical until later.” Michael had never been fond of medicals

“I am afraid not Ensign Wallace, come with me to sickbay immediately.” Replied Saryn

“Okay, okay you win lets go…” Said Michael, thinking the sooner he could get it over with the better as he followed Saryn to E Deck and the sickbay.

<Tag: Saryn>

[Deleted]

With the entire ship stocked to the max, Jack found himself with a little reprieve. It wasn't long but enough for him to relax a bit and meditate. It didn't take long for his body to totally loosen up and his stress level to drop to a minimum. After his meditation session was complete, Jack changed into a fresh uniform and headed towards sickbay. He knew that his physical was due and it would best to get it out of the way now.

~I wonder if Saryn will ever relieve of us of duty?~ Jack asked himself as he walked out of his quarters. If the Vulcan ever tried to do that to him, Jack would punch him squarely in the face first. ~I've never gone crazy~

"Commander Logan, I was wondering if you would be having a poker night anytime soon?" a Lt. Juno asked as Jack passed him in the corridor.

"Yes, though the one coming up is for the senior staff only," Jack said," the captain and I are going to welcome our new chief engineer by taking all his money."

"I hope you're joking sir," Lt. Juno said as he walked off.

"Nope, I actually plan to take all his money and make work some extra shift to boot," Jack whispered to himself as he walked into the lift and headed towards sickbay.

~Hopefully I can do the same to Saryn~Jack thought to himself which caused him to laugh silently.

When the lift opened, Jack saw the newest member of the crew walking into sickbay. He made sure to not be seen and gave him and Saryn some time to get to now each other. After pretending to look at the console for a few minutes Jack walked into sickbay.

"Can I do something for you sir?" the nurse on duty asked when she saw him enter.

"No, I'm here for my physical," Jack responded as he made his way to the nearest biobed.

"Lucy says you have some skills ensign," Jack said to the chief engineer.

"Sir?"

"Lucy was one of the engineers in main engineering when you made the modifications," Jack said smiling," she is the hardest to please among them. If you could impress her, you must be a damned good engineer. The only person I knew that could ever please that woman was Captain Kirk."


(Wallace and Saryn)

[Andrew Kirk]

Kirk sat inside what he was now trying to get used to calling ‘his’ ready room. The room still looked and felt as if it belonged to Captain Adams; his paintings still were hung in the corner of the room and small bronze models of old NASA space ships hung in formation on the far wall.

“Andy.... I mean Captain, the Challenger has been restocked. We are ready to go as soon as you are ready.” Jack said over the COM.

“Acknowledged.” Kirk replied. His face was plastered to the monitor in front of him. On the screen was the official ‘How to be a Starfleet Captain for Dummies’.

On the desk and just to the right was a PDA with the Challenger’s current orders. Kirk had hoped that there would be some rest and a brief return back to Earth but matters on the war front forced all available ships to remain on patrol.

Kirk’s eyes felt tired from reading so much but he knew the lives of the crew depended on him knowing everything he could about being a Starship Captain. Though some would say that he handled himself well during his first sudden command of the Challenger, he on the other hand felt as if he had gotten lucky. He knew that it was only a matter of time before his inexperience caught up with him.

Turning off the monitor, Kirk left his ready room for the hassle and bustle of the Bridge. Junior officers manned each station while the senior officers were busy making sure their departments were squared away.

Sitting down in his new chair Kirk and touched the pips on his shoulder. He was still wearing his Engineering duty uniform with his old Lieutenant pips. He felt a strong connection to his background and was having a hard time letting go. He knew that tomorrow would bring a fresh start.

Pushing the ship wide COM button on his chair Kirk spoke up, “Attention, this is the Captain. All senior officers please report into your departments. We are getting underway with in the hour. Kirk out.”

<Tag ALL>

[michaelwallace]

Michael followed Saryn down to sickbay and Saryn began the medical. Michael never enjoyed medicals not one bit, Michael just grinned and bared the different medical checks and was just hoping it would be over soon. Michael noticed the Communications Officer, Jack walk into sickbay and watched him speak to the duty nurse. He then sat down in the biobed next to Michael’s and then said:

"Lucy says you have some skills ensign,"

"Sir?" Inquired Michael

"Lucy was one of the engineers in main engineering when you made the modifications," Jack said smiling, "she is the hardest to please among them. If you could impress her, you must be a damned good engineer. The only person I knew that could ever please that woman was Captain Kirk."

Michael took a moment to reply as Saryn was looking in his eyes, Michael wondered what the heck could be in his eyes that made him a hazard. Although he was no Doctor so he did not complain. He sensed that Saryn knew exactly what he was thinking, he wondered what the Vulcan would have answered had he asked.

Captain Kirk, Michael thought… does that mean he was the former chief engineer? Alarm bells started ringing, Michael felt a great increase in pressure in doing his job. If the Captain used to be Chief Engineer he would have big shoes to fill.

“Thank you Sir, I’ve studied warp engines all my life. I’ve worked with warp engines back on earth and was involved in the design process, its just a case of knowing where to look. I’m glad I’ve made a good impression on my fellow engineers, so Captain Kirk used to be Chief Engineer?” Michael asked Jack

“Attention, this is the Captain. All senior officers please report into your departments. We are getting underway with in the hour. Kirk out.” The sound of the Captain came from the sickbay COM, Michael was eager to leave but was curious to hear about Captain Kirk.

<Tag: Saryn/Jack>

[Deleted]

While Kirk and Wallace chatted, Saryn continued the check-up on the new chief engineer. "Do you have any allergies I need to know about, that may compromise any needed treatment?" he asked as he shone a light in the young man's eyes to check pupil dilatation and contraction. "Your eyes seem in good order," he concluded, "please roll up your sleeve. I require a blood sample."

While he waited for Walace to comply, he turned to Logan. "Lieutenant, I do not recall calling you down for your medical, however now that you are here I may as well subject you to one. Please remove your shirt and lay down."

Just as Logan started to remove his shirt, Kirk's call came over the intercom. "Come back later lieutenant, duty calls." Saryn turned back to Wallace. "I will just draw the bloodsample and then you are dismissed to your duties."

The Vulcan applied the tourniquet to the human's arm and searched for the vein in his arm. Swabbing the area with alcohol, he then deftly applied the syringe to it and drew the required samples. After removing the tourniquet and the needle, he pressed a small bit of cottonwool to the puncturewound. "Press down for a few minutes, if you continue to bleed, call back in."

Saryn walked over to the nearest wall panel and pressed down the button. "Bridge this is Saryn. Lieutenant Commander Logan and Ensign Wallace are on their way to their respective stations."

[michaelwallace]

After removing the tourniquet and the needle, Dr Saryn pressed a small bit of cottonwool to the puncturewound. "Press down for a few minutes, if you continue to bleed, call back in."

“Thank you Doctor Saryn.” Replied Michael as he headed for the door accompanied by Lt. Commander Logan. Dr Saryn responded in kind as Jack and Michael left sickbay.

After leaving the sickbay, Michael walked with Jack along the corridor getting to know his superior. Then Jack said:

"Ensign Wallace, the senior staff will be having a poker night fairly soon and I am cordially inviting you to take part.” “Not so much inviting you but ordering you.” Jack jested…

“I do enjoy a hand or 2 of texas hold’em now again. Count me in, it is texas hold’em we are playing right?”

<Tag: Jack> - Feel free to add more to the conversation.

Jack explained who would be there and that it would be a good bonding session to get to know his fellow officers when they were out of duty. Michael accepted the invitation and headed to Engineering as Jack headed for the Bridge.

Upon reaching Engineering, Michael tapped the wall panel and pressed down the con button. "Bridge this is Ensign Wallace. I'm now in Engineering and awaiting your orders to start up the engines."

Michael approached Lt. JG Lucy Scott. She was running some additional systems checks to make sure everything was set.
Michael ushered her over to him:

"Lucy I'd like you to become Assistant Chief Engineer, I think you are a skilled engineer and would when I leave engineering I want to leave it in capable hands."

"Thank you, Sir - I accept" Lucy answered

"Don't thank me, I have it on good authority that you have earnt it. Now lets be ready to get the engines prepped for departure."

Michael and Lucy began running some minor checks and awaited the call from the bridge to fire up the engines.