New Mission: Trouble in Paradise

[Deleted]

Prologue

The Federation Colony World New Haven

“Come on Alex,” Kerry called out playfully as she ran into clear blue sea, “it’s lovely in here!”

“I don’t know,” the boy called Alex said with apprehension, “it looks cold.”

“Don’t be such a wimp,” Kerry laughed as she submerged herself in the water.

“Am not a wimp,” Alex protested, slowly walking into the water.

“Are too,” Kerry teased as Alex tried to fight the urge to shiver.

“Not,” Alex answered in triumph as he swam out to meet her.

“Well hello,” Kerry said smiling as she wrapped her arms around him, “now you’re here what shall we do?”

“I have no idea,” Alex replied, smiling as he leant in to kiss her.

Suddenly, a massive explosion sounded in the distance, causing the young couple to break apart. Everything around them went into darkness, as if the sun itself had gone out. As Kerry’s screams sounded throughout the beach, a massive tidal wave engulfed the couple.

The Mission Begins

USS Hanson Stardate 93.1208

“I think a little more to the right,” Crewman Louise Carter said, her arms folded in concentration.

“Really?” Ensign Barry George asked, “I thought it looked good here.”

“No, diffidently more to the right,” Louise replied.

“I think Mr. George is right,” Paul Drew said as he walked into the mess hall, “the tree looks good where it is.”

“Admiral Drew!” Louise exclaimed in shock, sharply standing to attention, Ensign George followed suite, almost knocking over the Christmas Tree that he had been setting up.

“At ease please,” Drew smiled, “Commander Bates will kill me if I have his team replicate another tree.”

“Sorry sir” Ensign George replied, steadying the tree.

“Don’t mention it,” Drew said, “now have either of you seen Commander Hope? The computer said she was here.”

The two crewmembers exchanged a worried look, it seemed to Drew as if some mental battle was being fought between the two over who would answer him.

“Well?” he promoted.

“Sir,” Louise began, “the Commander was here but she had to go somewhere.”

“Really?” Drew said in amusement, “and just where was that?”

“Am sorry sir, I don’t know,” Louise said, in an unconvincing tone.

“I see,” Drew said walking over to the Christmas Tree that had
yet to be decorated, “I am sure this is nothing to do with singing duet I have arranged?”

Again Ensign George and Crewman Carter exchanged worried glances, confirming Drew’s suspicions.

“Drew to Hope,” Drew said, tapping his comm badge, “Commander, I clearly remember telling you to be in the mess for fourteen hundred hours to help with the tree decorating, and rehearse our duet for tonight’s concert.”

Interestingly enough, only silence answered Drew’s comm call.

Then surprisingly Commander Konal Manto’s voice sounded from Drew’s comm badge.

“Bridge to Admiral Drew, sir the cadets are arriving.”

“Very well,” Drew said, tapping his comm badge again, “Konal have all the instructors assemble in the transporter room to meet the Cadet’s, I will be down there shortly myself.”

“Aye Admiral,” Konal replied, closing the channel.

“Look’s like Commander Hope has been saved by the bell,” Drew said to George and Louise, “please continue with setting up the decorations, I will be back later.”

Leaving the mess, Drew called the nearest turbolift, much to his surprise, the lift opened to revel his First Officer.

“Why S’reena, there you are,” Drew said in mock surprise.

“Admiral!” S’reena exclaimed, “I was just on my way to meet you when Konal’s announcement came.”

“Of course you were,” Drew replied, “although don’t think this gets you off the hook, it’s going to be a long mission.”

“I can assure you I was not ‘trying to get off the hook’,” S’reena said as the turbolift doors opened again and they began walking to the transporter room, “I was just called away elsewhere.”

“Sure,” Drew said, as the doors opened and they walked in to be greeted by the rest of the Hanson senior staff, who were already assembled. Second Officer and Science Officer Commander Konal Manto stood at the head of the party, followed by Chief Engineer Commander Noah Bates, recently returned to the Hanson, next was the ship’s Counsellor, Commander Timothy Westgate, followed by Security Chief and newly promoted Commander Yahnie Youngblood and finally Senior Marine Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Methos.

“I hope you’re all ready for another action packed mission,” Drew said to his staff as he took his place in the line, “Chief, I believe we have two instructors to beam aboard first?”

“Aye Admiral,” the transporter chief replied.

“Lock on and energise,” Drew ordered, straightening his uniform and grasping his uniform belt.

Within seconds, two figures appeared on the transporter padd, one in the golden uniform of Operations, the other a teal Medical uniform.

Before stepping from the platform, both officers stood to attention and said:

“Commander Lorna Holsen, Chief Medical Officer and Instructor, reporting for duty.”

“Lieutenant Redos Egan, Chief Operations Officer and Instructor, also reporting for duty.”

“Welcome both of you to the Hanson,” Drew said warmly, stepping forward to greet them, “please join us in our little line up here as we wait for the cadets.”

“Thank you sir,” both replied, as they walked down from the platform and joined their fellow instructors.

“I believe that leaves just one more matter to attend to,” Drew said, looking back round at the transporter chief, “are the cadets ready?”

“Starbase Conqueror reports so,” the Chief replied.

“Very well, energise,” Drew ordered, turning back to face the transporter platform as six bodies materialised.

“Welcome Cadets to the USS Hanson,” Drew said when the transport process was complete, “I am Vice Admiral Paul Drew, commander of this vessel, and your captain for the foreseeable future, these fine people here,” he said, indicating the officers behind him, “will be your instructors for the reminder of your time in the Academy, listen to them carefully, do everything that they tell you and you will be fine.”

The cadets nervously looked over at the instructors, who Drew imagined with trying to do their very best to look scary and impressive.

“Now that the formalities are out of the way,” Drew said, “if you would all like to follow me, we have arranged a little party for you.”

As everyone began to leave the room, Drew pulled S’reena over to him, “I hope you remembered to bring your hymn book…”

OOC:

Welcome everyone to the Hanson, I thought I would start things a little differently this mission, given that we will be simming together for the festive season I thought it would be nice if our characters all got to know each other better in a more relaxed atmosphere. Cadets, you could post meeting your fellow cadets at the Starbase, your first reactions to meeting the instructors and arriving at the party. Happy simming!

[ryo8462]

*Back on the Station*

He took another sip, as Bit didn't respond right away. "So Cadet, what makes you think yourself worthy to possible become a Starfleet Officer?"

Bit sat there thinking about it for a moment He was just about to respond when Bates was summoned away to the ship.

"Well it looks like you have some extra time to think on it" he said before transporting away.

Bit sighed then got up and left the resturant and started to walk around again. It wasn't soon after Bates left that a announcement came over the COM for all cadets to report to Transporter 13.

Bit got a little lucky with the location because he happened to just walk by the room. He turned around and headed back to the transporter room and happened to be the first one there. It wasn't long tho before all the other cadets came in.

After all the cadets were on the transporter pad we were engergized and the next thing bit knew he was standing infront of the commanding officers and department heads of the Hanson.

*On the Ship*

“Welcome Cadets to the USS Hanson,” Drew said when the transport process was complete, “I am Vice Admiral Paul Drew, commander of this vessel, and your captain for the foreseeable future, these fine people here,” he said, indicating the officers behind him, “will be your instructors for the reminder of your time in the Academy, listen to them carefully, do everything that they tell you and you will be fine.”

The cadets nervously looked over at the instructors, who Drew imagined with trying to do their very best to look scary and impressive.

“Now that the formalities are out of the way,” Drew said, “if you would all like to follow me, we have arranged a little party for you.”

Bit followed with the rest of the Cadets towards the Mess Hall. They all stopped infront of the Turbolift doors. "Alright everyone were going to have to go in groups." Drew said and lead the first group of
6 people in.

The turbo lift doors closed and it was gone and back in no time. The same procedure happend till finally the last of the cadets and last two officers got on and headed off.

<Tag S’reena, or any other officer that wants to be in the last group>

[Deleted]

Noah sat patiently waiting for the turbolift to return, along with Commander Hope and Cadet Bit-Cloud. S'reena was standing immediately in front of Noah.

Without warning, and to Noah's great surprise, S'reena suddenly exhaled loudly and sat right down in Noah's lap. With Noah blushing slightly, S'reena turned around a bit and asked, "You don't mind, do you?" she asked.

Noah fought to regain his composure as he answered, "Not at all." S'reena was, after all, a rather attractive woman. "But let's not make a habit of this," Noah said, thinking of appearances. They were colleagues, and S'reena was married.

When the turbolift finally arrived, the Cadets parted to let Noah in. He was a little slower than normal in moving the chair, due to the added weight. "Let's definitely not a habit of this," he said, breathing slightly heavily from the exertion.

Noah was a bit relieved when S'reena stood up out of his lap as the turbolift doors opened, and he was able to propel just himself again.

[Deleted]

S'reena ignored the call from Drew; she'd just been able to make herself scarce when he had entered the mess hall. She'd been lured into singing a duet with him, but she wasn't all to confident about the purity of her own voice. Sure, she could sign all right when she was home alone, but in public? She gulped at the memory, but smiled ever so brightly when Drew confronted her with it. "Got it right here," she answered, patting the side of her tunic.

Cadets were arriving and they had to go in groups. She and Bates were the last to enter the turbolift, together with Cadets Bit-Cloud, Stewart and Anabelle Bennett. Sighing, she sat down on Bates' lap, flustering the older man. He didn't mind but she could see it was costing him a fair amount of energy.

When they entered the lift, she rose to her feet, squeezing Bates' shoulder gently. "Thank you commander, I needed that brief rest." She smiled at the two Human cadets and the one Vulcan cadet. "I'm getting old too you know," she chuckled, "and I've been running all over the ship getting it ready for our new mission."

She waited for anyone to speak but when they didn't, she shrugged. "Well, aren't you all excited about this party? I bet you're anxious to hear our duet..." She trailed off, suddenly looking uncomfortable.

[annannabelle]

Annabelle stood nervously in the transporter room waiting to join the ship. Around her she could see the other cadets were just as nervous, standing in awkward silence. She was thankful that there had been other cadets in the room when she’d got there but also that she wasn’t the last to arrive. Soon everyone was gathered and transported onto the ship.

Materialising on the deck of the Hanson, Annabelle saw the Commanding officers and instructors waiting patiently for the cadets to arrive. They were not threatening in appearance or posture but she still felt intimidated by them, knowing that they were not going to brook any disappointments. As the Captain started his speech, Annabelle became increasingly worried. A party? She was one of those people that felt more nervous of social interaction the more casual it was. She would have preferred to get to know her fellow crew members on a mainly professional basis to begin with, as small talk was not one of her specialities and did not want to be remembered as someone who said stupid things just to fill the silence. Lost in thought over Drew’s words, Annabelle almost didn’t realise that the rest of the assembled group were exiting the room and following Drew down to the turbolift. She trailed along after them, until she joined them thronging round the lift doors.

"Alright everyone we're going to have to go in groups." Drew said and led the first group of
6 people in.

The turbo lift doors closed and it was gone and back in no time. The same procedure happened till finally the last of the cadets and last two officers got on and headed off.

Annabelle followed what was left of the company into the lift. She could feel her palms moistening and hoped she wouldn’t embarrass herself too much in front of the people she would have to work alongside. Standing in the lift, the awkward silence that had filled the transporter room returned. It seemed to last forever and Annabelle was thankful when Commander Hope broke the silence.

Hope: “Well, aren't you all excited about this party? I bet you're anxious to hear our duet..." She trailed off, suddenly looking uncomfortable.

Unwilling to leave the Commander’s words hanging in the air, Annabelle replied in her slightly accented voice "I don’t know about the others but I’m looking forward to the party and being able to meet everyone properly.”
Then unable to think of anything else to say she fell silent. She hoped her answer would be enough to make the other cadets join in the conversation with the commander.

<a cadet or s’reena>

Just at that moment, the lift doors spilled open.

[redosegan]

Redos felt a momentary flash of nervousness as he made his way, as requested, to transporter room four to beam aboard his new ship. Entering the room, the Lieutenant found he was not the only officer present, as a Commander in a blue scientific uniform was waiting to beam aboard as well. With a smile and an extended hand, Egan decided it best to introduce himself. “Hello, I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Lieutenant Redos, the new COO.”

<Tag Holsen>

Smiling politely at the new CMO, Lieutenant Redos fought back a momentarily wave of jealousy and nostalgia, but those feelings were soon pushed aside as the two new officers stepped aboard the transporter pad. Another brief moment of nervousness returned, and Egan chided himself silently. ‘You’re far too old for butterflies. Get a hold of yourself.’ Soon after, the operations officer found himself standing on another transporter pad before a group of officers, his new colleagues.

A short set of introductions and welcomes later, and Redos was in line awaiting the first group of Cadets in his new Starfleet Academy career. When the six young people materialized, Egan smiled warmly at the two he recognized from several days earlier, Cadet Stewart and Cadet Wolfe. As the large gathering began to make its way to the turbolift, the Lieutenant managed to join Wolfe.

“Hello Cadet. It’s good to see you again. I hope you’ve been making good use of your time before the mission and catching up on the Hanson’s specs.” The new instructors tone was pleasant and slightly teasing, although he did hope the young man had indeed familiarized himself with the Intrepid class, as that would make things a whole lot easier.

<Tag Wolfe>

The turbolift departed with the first group before reappearing a few minutes later. Redos and Wolfe both joined the second group, while Cadet Stewart waited to take the third trip to the mess hall. A momentary silence descended on the lift, during which Egan glanced around at the other occupants mentally rehearsing the names, ranks, and positions of those he recognized.

“Well this should be fun, a party on the very first day…” the Lieutenant remarked cheerfully, trying to fill the silence.

<Tag Wolfe/Second Group>

[Deleted]

=/\= “Konal have all the instructors assemble in the transporter room to meet the Cadet’s, I will be down there shortly myself.” =/\=

=/\= Aye Admiral =/\= the Cardassian officer responded. She didn't mention that she had already taken position in the airlock, and awaited arrivals.

And streaming in they did. Each was had already been formally welcomed by herself, over subspace communication, but this was different. A face could be placed with the name, along with a personality.

It always amazed her how many different kinds of Cadets there were. Some came ready for action. Some came ready to learn. Some came with no clue what to do. All of them, even the confused, had a place on the Hanson. Konal had watched as the most unlikely of recruits had been turned into the most respectable of officers.

Then there were the different races. She watched as the Cadets walked by... a Vulcan, a Human, a Human, a.. well,.. she tried not to show any curiosity in her face when Annabelle introduced herself. She had not familiarized herself with the notes written with each Cadet in the last few days as she normally did, and the interesting features didn't register right away as a common race. She would poke in the personnel logs later. The melting pot that made up the Hanson gave the training vessel it's well rounded teaching ability. Konal was anxious to get started.

After welcoming Cadet Brighton, and after Admiral Drew's announcement, they joined the rest of the cadets and instructors on the way to the party.

"I am relieved that Mr. Bates took my advice and didn't cut down a real tree for this festival humans have." she told her Cadet. "I used to be a botanist." She mentioned it to explain her disdain for senseless harvesting of natural resources.

The middle-aged woman rubbed her neck ridges. Lately, the stress of keeping the botany lab on the Starbase on task, keeping track of all the incoming and outgoing cadets, and then repacking for the trip on the Hanson again had given her a bit of stress. "Hopefully this training mission won't involve anything physical." She wasn't that old though, nor was she that out of shape. It kept the walk from being quiet.

"Since I haven't had the chance to meet you yet, Mr. Brighton, perhaps you can tell me what brought you into Section 47?"

[clarabennet]

Clara stood waiting to be transported to the Hanson with the other Cadets. While it couldn't be claimed she was being impatient, the crossed arms and bored glances round the room showed she wasn't overly impressed to be hanging around. She was also unimpressed by the first impressions the others were giving off. Sure they weren't aboard yet but clearly the competition had begun. And what anyone said, it was a competition. Only one of them caught her eye at all, and that wasn't for apparent quality. There was something vaguely familiar about the girl that she couldn't put her finger on.


After what seemed like an eternity they transported onto the ship, and Clara was careful to observe the instructors from the outset.

"Welcome Cadets to the USS Hanson, I am Vice Admiral Paul Drew, commander of this vessel, and your captain for the foreseeable future, these fine people here will be your instructors for the remainder of your time in the Academy, listen to them carefully, do everything that they tell you and you will be fine."

She knew better than to roll here eyes at the idea of doing everything an instructor said. While she intended to complete this training mission with the same work attitude that had served her well so far, there was no point giving her superiors reason to think badly of her. Chances were they'd misinterpret her intentions entirely.

As they headed out the transporter room and down the corridor Clara was careful to stay near the front of the pack, ensuring when they grouped off that she was in the first batch. Any time spent with the Admiral would be a bonus. Although she would have to be careful with meeting everyone informally first. Every piece of information she had a chance to gain about other people was a chance that someone might mistakenly think something bad about her.

[zacharywolfe]

Cadet Wolfe was relieved to see Lt. Redos. "It is great to see you and Cadet Stewart Sir." The Lt. looked as nevous as he did. They matched each others stried as Cadet Wolfe left the transporter pad. This is when the Lt. Redos, obvioulsy trying to shake his and Cadet Wolfe's nerves, poped a question to Cadet Wolfe about reviewing the specifications about their new Intrepid class home The USS Hanson. Cadet Wolfe responded quickly. "Yes sir I have been reviewing her specs and she is quite impressive. Nothing like those old musty freighters I ran around the galaxy with my parents a few years ago. My only question is why do we need so much power, speed, and fire for a little training cruise?"

<Tag Redos>

At this point Lt. Redos looked at Cadet Wolfe and said “Well this should be fun, a party on the very first day…” His remark was cheerful, but turned a little bit when he saw Cadet Wolfe roll his eyes. There was more to Cadet Wolfe's story about his parents and their freighter the Mountaineer. He hoped that one day he could trust Lt. Redos and all his new Starfleet friends enough to go into it. "I wonder if it is a Christmas party?" Cadet Wolfe replied to Lt. Redos.

<tag Redos>

[ryo8462]

Unwilling to leave the Commander’s words hanging in the air, Annabelle replied in her slightly accented voice "I don’t know about the others but I’m looking forward to the party and being able to meet everyone properly.”
Then unable to think of anything else to say she fell silent. She hoped her answer would be enough to make the other cadets join in the conversation with the commander.

Just at that moment, the lift doors split open.


He and the other cadets that were in stepped out and waited for S'reena and Bates to come out. After the did they started to follow along towards the mess hall. "This should be fun" bit said to the cadet next too him.

It wasn't very long before they arrived at the Mess Hall and walked in. It had been decorated for the holidays and looking pretty awesome.

There was a tree in one of the corners that had been decorated, a buffet of food sitting out on the counter top, and everyone looked like they were having fun. There had been cadets talking to each other in different parts of the rooms, the Senior staff were talking some with cadets and other with each other.

Bit happened to see a pot of coffee out with the drinks he got a cup and went to get some then went to go look out the window

<tag>

[methos]

After the call for all the Instructors to meet the cadets in the transporter room, Methos headed that way. When he got there, most everyone was already there. He waited while the two new instructors were beamed aboard followed by the cadets. Admiral Drew gave his welcoming speech and everyone marched off to the officers mess for the 'party.'

Methos was in the first group with Drew. After the lift doors opened and the first group entered the mess hall, Methos was momentarily drawn back to his childhood and one of his first Christmases. After a brief stop he was suddenly thrown back to the present when an Ensign bumped into him.

"Excuse me, sir. It looks like you might have been daydreaming," the Ensign said. Methos nodded and said, "I was and it was my fault I stopped. Carry on."

Methos then went to the table and grabbed a plate and went to stand by one of the windows, looking at everyone at the party. He noticed a cadet walk over and grab a coffee and then walk to one of the other windows and was looking out. Methos set his food down, something he never would have done at home, and walk over to the cadet.

"So cadet, what brings you to the Academy?"

<Bit-Cloud>

[redosegan]

"Yes sir I have been reviewing her specs and she is quite impressive. Nothing like those old musty freighters I ran around the galaxy with my parents a few years ago. My only question is why do we need so much power, speed, and fire for a little training cruise?" the young Cadet wondered.

With a grin, Egan replied, “Best to be prepared for anything, Cadet. You never know what might happen. Having been in space before, I’m sure you’ve seen that first hand. I know I have. It helps to be as ready for anything as you can be.”

While the Lieutenant firmly believed this, he was also hoping maybe his first mission would be a relatively simple one. The Bajoran knew better than to hold his breath though, especially after some of the stories he’d heard about the Hanson.

At the mention of the party, Wolfe rolled his eyes, which surprised Redos a bit. He couldn’t imagine anyone turning down a party, especially a young person such as the Cadet was. Still, in spite of his display of…whatever it was he was displaying, Zachary managed to comment, "I wonder if it is a Christmas party?"

“Beats me, but I guess that would make sense given the time of year. Still, a party is a party, so whatever the occasion, I’m looking forward to it.” Redos responded with another grin. Having an informal get together with his fellow instructors and the Cadets suited the laid back ops officer just fine. It would be as good a time as any to get to know everyone.

"Feel free to get to know the other Cadets and instructors, introduce yourself to someone new. It's always a good idea to know who you're working with, especially when those unexpected situations arise." the Bajoran officer advised with yet another grin. He hoped that the young man would take his advice and make good use of this time. How he approached this opportunity would say a lot about him.

<Tag Wolfe>

As the lift stopped and deposited the small group at the mess hall, Egan moved forward with the rest to enter the festively decorated room. It did indeed appear to be a Christmas party, and while not Human, the Lieutenant did appreciate the effect of the tree and the lights. He had always enjoyed the smell of pine trees whenever this season came around, and today was no exception.

Moving to grab some food, Redos found himself unsure of what to do next. He wasn’t shy by any means, but the only people he really knew were his two Cadets, well and Commanders Bates and Holsen from earlier. On second thought, knowing four people wasn’t so bad after all. With renewed enthusiasm, the instructor set out to have a good time and meet a few new faces. He stopped for a moment on his quest when he saw Cadet Stewart enter and decided to say hello.

“Welcome to...the mess hall.” Redos greeted, laughing slightly at his rather pathetic announcement. “Make sure you have some fun and enjoy yourself while you’re here, because once the party’s over….well the party’s over.”

Grimacing at how ridiculous he was sounding, Egan smiled wanly at the young man, hoping he wasn’t making too big a fool of himself. Realizing he knew very little about his second Cadet, Redos quickly changed the subject. “So, I don’t believe we’ve had much of a chance to talk. Where are you from, Cadet?”

<Tag Stewart>

[Lorna Holsen]

Lorna had managed to meet most of her new staff on starbase but now the time had come to formally report in to the Hanson. She was in Transporter room 4 waiting when a Bajoran Lieutenant in gold arrived.


“Hello, I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Lieutenant Redos, the new COO.”

"Hello Lieutenant. I'm Lorna Holsen, the new CMO." She, thought he seemed a touch nervous so she smiled but there wasn't time to exchange any more pleasantries before they beamed aboard the Hanson.

Lorna reported in and joined the line of instructors, clasping her hands behind her back and fighting to keep a smile off her face. The cadets arrived and Admiral Drew spoke up to welcome them all.

"Now that the formalities are out of the way," he said, "if you would all like to follow me, we have arranged a little party for you."
That was a surprise to Lorna but she followed the cadets and officers out to the turbolift doing her best to look serious. She didn't know any of the cadets but it seemed that Lieutenant Redos did.

They made their way to the mess hall which was decorated for a Christmas party. She gave into the smile and looked round. She lost herself for a moment and then realised that she should be doing her job. Namely talking to the cadets and trying to ensure she didn't see them in sickbay needing to be patched up too often.

She looked round and saw a serious but nervously looking cadet that she couldn't put a name to, she was terrible with names. She walked over. "Hello cadet. I'm Doctor Lorna Holsen."

Tag: a cadet.

"I'd ask why you joined starfleet but I'm betting you're sick of that question all ready so why don't you ask a question?"

Tag:

[kratak]

He had gotten a invitation to come aboard the Hanson to see the tree and the party. The Admiral knew he had be interested in earth customs and told him to come by and take a look. He beamed aboard and got permission to come aboard, he didn't want to give Commander Hope anything to come back on him with. He still felt alot of anger toward her, since there last mission it only had gotten worse. He blamed her for endangering his crew and his ship for no reason, time lines were just that time lines subject to change, Q had proved somethings shouldn't happen. He didn't trust Q but agreed with the pain in the neck on that subject.

Making his way to where the crew was gathered he stayed in the back of the room. This was not his ship and he only wanted to watch and listen. He had a interest in earth customs and the admiral was trying to help him understand some of them. It was something that would never happen on a Klingon ship standing around a tree and singing. Well at leasting standing around the tree part anyway.

He saw the instructors and the cadets arrive but kept to himself, maybe nobody would notice and he would be gone soon enough. He wasn't use to the crew or the ship he missed his ship already but she wasn't due to leave until the Hanson came back. He watched with interest and listened to the singing. Thinking to himself that humans were a little funny they complain about Klingon Opera and sing like this good grief, talk about the pot calling the kettle black.

[Deleted]

Grimacing at how ridiculous he was sounding, Egan smiled wanly at the young man, hoping he wasn’t making too big a fool of himself. Realizing he knew very little about his second Cadet, Redos quickly changed the subject. “So, I don’t believe we’ve had much of a chance to talk. Where are you from, Cadet?”

"London Sir." replied James who looked round the mess hall and thought' I wonder what positsion am I gona have on this training vessel

<<Redos>>

"Sir May I ask a question?" asked James who stood with a glass of cola in his hand knowing full well that work started in the morning. the first thing he knew was not to get drunk untill graduation day then and only then would he have a beer.

<<redos>>

"Do you know what position I am going to have In Ops?" he wanted to know so he could prep for it. he allways knew that if he got the right point then maybe he could pass it with flying colors.

<<Redos>>

[ryo8462]

"So cadet, what brings you to the Academy?"

Bit stood there just watching out the window not registering anyone was talking to him because there were other cadets in the area. It wasn't until he was being tapped on the shoulder that he knew someone was talking to him.

Bit jumped a little not realizing he was that far out of it. He turned around and look at Methos. "Sorry about that didn't realize you were talking to me with all the other cadets around " he said half chuckling.

"No big deal" methos said "but i asked what brings you to the academy" he said.

Bit looked at him for a minute then proceeded to explain. "Well you see sir i'm hoping to become a engineer and it sounded like it would be awesome to come here so here i am" he said taking another sip of his once hot coffee.

"So what do you do here?" he asked not really familiar with every station on a starship yet

<TAG METHOS or anyone else that wants to join in ^_->

[huggybear51956]

On:

<Lieutenant Commander Youngblood’s Quarters>
<0:600 Hrs.>

Lieutenant commander Youngblood woke at 06:00 as usual. He was in his quarters on deck 5 Officer Quarters. When he woke his comm. link was blinking saying that there is a message for him. Yahnie’s Comm. Panel rose as he said his password Omega Alpha 1820 Beta. Commander Youngblood please report to my office at 08:00.End of Transmission.
Yahnie went to the replicator and said Tea El Grey Hot. Yahnie sipped on his Tea and had some toast for breakfast and a poached egg over it. After Yahnie ate he took a sonic shower and got dress into his uniform.
It is close to 08:00 hrs. And Yahnie left his quarters as he went towards the turbo lift. Yahnie walked in and said deck 1. Yahnie arrived to deck 1 and walked into the operations area where he was greeted by the secretary. Have a seat sir; I’ll see if someone is available to see you

<Operations>
<10 Minutes Later>

The Secretary said that the Director of Operations will see you now. Yahnie walked in to the office and T'lana had said to the Commander, Please have a seat sir. T'lana had his service record in front of him. Lt Commander Youngblood, I have been looking over your record and see that you have a great record with section 47. Yes Sir, Yahnie said.
“Please stand up Sir. I have the honor of telling you that I've entered on this date in your service jacket that I'm granting you a commission from Lieutenant Commander to Commander, Congratulations.” Before Yahnie could speak T'lana took a pip and added it to his collar. Yahnie had stood up when T'lana did after T'lana put the pip on, Yahnie had saluted and T'lana return the salute. “Thank-you Sir,” Yahnie said. “I hear that your ship will be leaving soon and you have a couple of new security cadets to train.” “Keep up the good work Commander” After T'lana finished speaking Yahnie had turned to leave.

<Yahnie’s Quarter’s on the Station>

Yahnie left the director of operations and headed back to his quarters to pack. He was due back on the ship in just a couple hours. Not much time he thought as he was packing. Yahnie didn’t quite understand his heritage, so Yahnie decided to come prepared just in case to pack his book, medicine wheel, and herbs and potions. He also brought a couple of old books about the tribe of his people.

<USS Hanson Stardate 93.1208>
<Hanson’s Transporter Room 2>

Yahnie was on the transporter padd at the station and ready to transport over to the Hanson. “Energize,” Yahnie said to the transporter chief and with a blink of an eye Yahnie found him on the Hanson. Permission to come aboard Yahnie said to the chief. “Permission granted and Welcome back. Congratulation on your promotion Commander.” said the Chief. You are due in the mess hall at 14:00 Hrs. sir.

<Yahnie’s Quarter’s>

Yahnie headed to his quarters first and put his things away. Yahnie took a quick sonic shower and put on a duty uniform and headed over to the mess hall.

<Transporter Room 2>

“Welcome Cadets to the USS Hanson,” Drew said when the transport process was complete, “I am Vice Admiral Paul Drew, commander of this vessel, and your captain for the foreseeable future, these fine people here,” he said, indicating the officers behind him, “will be your instructors for the reminder of your time in the Academy, listen to them carefully, do everything that they tell you and you will be fine.”

The cadets nervously looked over at the instructors, who Drew imagined with trying to do their very best to look scary and impressive.

“Now that the formalities are out of the way,” Drew said, “if you would all like to follow me, we have arranged a little party for you.”

<Crew Mess Hall>
<14:00 Hrs.>

“Sure,” Drew said, as the doors opened and they walked in to be greeted by the rest of the Hanson senior staff, who were already assembled. Second Officer and Science Officer Commander Konal Manto stood at the head of the party, followed by Chief Engineer Commander Noah Bates, recently returned to the Hanson, next was the ship’s Counsellor, Commander Timothy Westgate, followed by Security Chief and newly promoted Commander Yahnie Youngblood and finally Senior Marine Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Methos.

Yahnie recognized his Cadets Annabelle Bennet and Clara Bennet and went over to where they were standing and introduced him to them. “My name is Commander Youngblood; I will be your instructor on this mission I hope you are prepared and ready to go. I just have one question, Are you both related Yahnie wanted to know.

<Tag: Cadets Annabelle Bennet and Clara Bennet>

Off:

[Deleted]

S'reena had gotten off the turbolift together with Bates and the remaining cadets but she had lagged behind while the others moved on and mingled with eachother. Nervously, she glanced down at the hymn book in her hand, wondering whether Drew was trying to make her look like a fool. She shook her head in denial, she knew her commanding officer better than that; he wouldn't consciously do that, would he?

The Romulan glanced up at the tree she had helped decorate and marveled at the sight. When she was a child, she had heard classmates tell tales of how they had put up Christmas trees at home, and had listened to the stories of the holy child being born. At home, however, there were no such festivities as she was reared the traditional Romulan way.

When she had married Michael, they had agreed to rear their children according to both customs and while Michael was a Christian, he had never once suggested putting up a tree in their quarters. Perhaps now, it was time to bring a change in that. She walked up to the tree and ran her hand over one of the branches. Though covered with needles, it still felt soft to the touch.

She turned and glanced around the room, watching Methos talk with a Vulcan cadet, the new Bajoran instructor was talking with a human and Yahnie was also speaking with two cadets. S'reena sighed to herself, trying to spot Drew among the groups of people. When she didn't spot him, she walked over to the table with drinks, to where the new doctor was also standing on her own. "They always look so young when we first take them aboard," the Romulan whispered to Holsen, "don't they?"

S'reena then pointed to the tree. "What do you think? It nearly had Bates in a fit when we asked him to replicate it."

[westgate]

It was Westgate's habit to make a quick size-up of all the people he met. It wasn't a permanent impression at all, just a quick way to understand how, perhaps, to approach them and make them feel comfortable. This habit was particularly helpful when meeting cadets for the first time, and in counseling with them, he was often able to use the information to enhance their confidence or to suggest alternative strategies for dealing with problems as they occurred.

For the past several months, Westgate had been back at home in Dismal. Tennessee, that is. He had taken the opportunity to visit with his brother, Earl Dean, hover-chair bound from an accident he had had, and his sister Rhonda Jean, who had taken the primary responsibility for caring for him. As always, the visit had refreshed him, and now he had returned to the Hanson, ready to resume his duties as ship's Counselor. For this mission, he had not been assigned a cadet, which was disheartening a bit, but Westgate, in his usual way, decided that he could be of use anyway,helping out in Medical, if needed, or Science, with Commander Manto.

At this moment, he was standing with the other instructors, waiting for the cadets to board. He was slightly nervous, as usual, not knowing quite what they were going to get this time. As the cadets materialized on the transporter pad, Westgate smiled. They all looked so very young. There was a good mixture of races represented, and they were of different genders as well. But they all had one thing in common: they were entering the last phase of their academy training, and after this mission they would be StarFleet officers, bound for the stars in whatever capacities they chose, aboard vessels which would carry them, nourish them, protect them. Westgate smiled. It was a continual renewal of hope and growth for the Federation which he proudly served.

"Well, then," Westgate boomed. "Welcome to the Hanson, y'all! Name's Westgate. Dr Westgate, Counselor. I believe, if y'all will step this way, you'll find an interesting greeting awaiting." He moved aside to let some cadets pass, and took up a position near the middle in the groupings as they formed. He eyed Commander Hope for a moment, remembering their aborted attempt at a counseling session on the last mission; Westgate hoped that they would be able to reconnect.

As they reached their destination, Westgate saw with some humor and delight the looks on the faces of the cadets. They obviously had not been prepared for the spectacle of a Christmas tree, and the stares and smiles and fidgets told him that they were in for an interesting evening.

He sidled up to one cadet, a science cadet by the look of him, all in blue. Westgate introduced himself, and the young man replied that his name was Brighton, Calvin Brighton. Winking at Manto, Westgate started in on a story with the young man.

"Cadet Brighton, did I ever tell you the story of one of my Christmases, back in Dismal? Tennessee, that is. Well, no, of course I didn't, as we just met. It was a cold day, mighty cold. Everything had done froze up solid. Rhonda Jean--she's my sister--Rhonda Jean and me had done gone out to the barn, you know, to fetch some eggs for our morning breakfast. Ground was cold, too. There was a rabbit had done froze to the ground, in full stride, too. Musta caught a breeze. Well, I turned and saw my sister--Rhonda Jean, you know--a-sayin' something to me. But as soon as the words left her mouth, they froze. Wasn't till later, after we thawed 'em out, I could hear what she said."

Brighton looked surprised, certainly. Westgate chuckled, nodded to the cadet, and went on over to the drinks.

[clarabennet]

Clara stopped by the edge of the Mess Hall on the way in to analyse the scene in front of her. As each of the other Cadets entered the room she carefully noted their appearance and any weaknesses that were immediately obvious. While none of them would display her natural talents, some may proove a challenge at a later date.

She very quickly became aware that the familiar looking girl was stood near her. Whether this was an attempt to engage her in conversation or the other girl was analysing the situation too (which would clearly make her smarter than she appeared) was yet to be discovered. Luckily any awkward conversation attempts were stopped before they could start as someone walked over to them. Clara recognised him instantly from her research on the crew.

"My name is Commander Youngblood; I will be your instructor on this mission. I hope you are prepared and ready to go. I just have one question, are you both related?"

Clara took a step back, folded her arms and blinked in the other Cadet's direction in disbelief. No way did they have anything in common whatsoever. "Of course not. Why would you think that?"

The Commander seemed to be a little surprised at her bold tone. "The two of you have the same surname and appear to have similar backgrounds and interests."

Another glance at the other Cadet, apparently another Cadet Bennet, told Clara nothing of value. "It's a common enough surname. Obviously this is just a coincidence, wouldn't you say so?" She waited for the other girl to say something, hoping that including her would look good to their instructor.

<Annabelle>

[Deleted]

Noah milled around the room a bit, not particularly in the mood to talk to anyone at present. His cadet was engaged in conversation with Col. Methos, and Noah didn't want to interrupt. He settled upon the one person in the room he was the most comfortable talking to. Ironically, it was S'reena.

"What do you think? It nearly had Bates in a fit when we asked him to replicate it," he heard her say to Dr. Holsen.

"Darn right it did," he said, rolling up. "I've got some of my best people still trying to switch the industrial replicator back to molecular. Switching it to quantum was hard enough to begin with, but switching it back is proving to be a whole other bee's nest."

He chuckled and put his arm around her waist, as he couldn't reach her shoulders. "Ah, but it is a beautiful thing, isn't it? Been a while since I've seen a Christmas tree."

[Lorna Holsen]

Lorna wandered round the party. She was enjoying herself but part of her was itching to get to sickbay. She wandered over to the buffet table to get another drink. The first officer came over to her.

"They always look so young when we first take them aboard," the Romulan whispered, "don't they?" Lorna gave a laugh in response, "Always. There are days when I don't remember being that young." She shook her head with a wry smile.

S'reena then pointed to the tree. "What do you think? It nearly had Bates in a fit when we asked him to replicate it."

Lorna tried to picture the CEO being confronted with a request to replicate a Christmas tree and had to smother another laugh as Noah came over to join them.

"Darn right it did," he said, "I've got some of my best people still trying to switch the industrial replicator back to molecular. Switching it to quantum was hard enough to begin with, but switching it back is proving to be a whole other bee's nest." Now that metaphor did make Lorna laugh

Noah put his arm around S'reena's waist "Ah, but it is a beautiful thing, isn't it? Been a while since I've seen a Christmas tree." Lorna nodded, it had been a while for her as well, maybe back when she'd been and instructor at Starfleet Medical...

She scanned the buffet table. "I've got to get a couple of chocolate brownies, either of you want one?"

[Deleted]

As the cadets and instructors gathered together and began to get to know one another, Drew watched the proceedings with a smile. It had been a new tactic to start the mission with a party like this, usually the instructors would have given the cadets a tour of the ship and then shown them to their stations, but this allowed everyone the chance to become comfortable before things got too serious.

Drew was also looking forward to his duet with S’reena. The First Officer had been trying to avoid him all day, even going as far as to miss part of the staff briefing, usually a very private person, the last thing she would ever want to do is sing in front of a group, let alone members of the crew.

Seeing S’reena, Noah and Lorna by the tree, Drew walked over to greet them, narrowly avoiding a waitress who was hurrying across the room with a drinks tray.

“A chocolate brownie would be wonderful Doctor,” Drew said, overhearing Lorna’s offer, “I haven’t eaten anything all day.”

Lorna smiled and offered him a plate. Taking one of the brownies, Drew looked round to S’reena.

“So tell me Commander, are you ready for our sing-a-long?”

“Um,” S’reena replied uncertainly, “of course Admiral.”

“Excellent,” Drew replied, “computer, play music file Drew 1-1-B”

As a familiar tune began to play through the internal comm system all the chatter in the room ceased, everyone’s attention was instead focused on the Captain and First Officer. Everyone had been waiting for this moment.

S’reena smiled nervously at the crowd, then glared at Drew as he walked past her, causing Drew to chuckle to himself.

“Ladies and gentleman,” Drew called out, “S’reena and myself thought we would start these celebrations by engaging in an age old tradition from my culture, a sing-a-long round the Christmas tree. For those of you with sensitive ears, I do apologize.”

Clearing his throat, Drew took a deep breath, and began to sing:

“You better watch out
You better not cry
You better not pout
I'm telling you why”

Together Drew and S’reena sang the chorus:

“Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town”

Then, still glaring at Drew, S’reena took up her solo:

“ He's making a list,
Checking it twice;
Gonna find out who's naughty or nice.”
“Bridge to Admiral” came the stern voice of the bridge watch officer, breaking off the next chorus.

Holding his hand to apologise to crowd, Drew tapped his comm badge;

“Go ahead Lieutenant.”

“Sir, we are picking up a distress call from New Haven, there has been some kind of planet wide accident, and they are requiring immediate assistance.”

“Understood,” Drew replied, stepping away from the Christmas tree, “I am sorry everyone, but we are going to have to cut the party short, instructors, please take the cadet’s to their stations.”

Instantly everyone in the room started to move, party food was left disregarded as everyone made their way to the exits, S’reena leading the way.

“Mr. Bates,” Drew called out, stopping the Chief Engineer.

“Sir?” Noah asked.

“Commander, as you already know the entire bio-neural network was upgraded during our stop over at base, I wanted to give you some time to test the systems before we did anything too demanding, but it looks like we don’t have much choice.”

“I’ll do the best I can sir,” Noah replied, guiding his cadet out of the mess.

“Thank you Commander,” Drew said, leaving through the other door. As he approached the turbolift door, he was surprised to be stopped by Commander K’ratak, of the Hepta.

“Sir, I take it I don’t have time to disembark?” K’ratak asked.

“Unfortunately not, looks like you are going to be with us,” Drew said, as the turbolift opened and both walked in.

Arriving on the bridge, Drew was pleased to see that the senior staff and cadets were already at their posts, walking down the command level he began to bark out orders;

“Operations, bring all systems online and run a level two diagnostic, we’ve had some upgrades since our last outing and I want to make sure everything is at peak efficiency.”

“Science, as soon as we are clear of the Starbase, begin long range scans of New Haven, see if we can establish what has happened.”

“Tactical, we are going to be joined by Commander K’ratak, I need the ship put on full tactical alert, make sure we have no unexpected visitors at New Haven as we approach.”

Reaching the command deck, he looked round at all the crewmembers, each of them ready to carry out his orders.

“I don’t need to tell you all that New Haven is one of the most important and highly populated planets in the sector , we could be dealing with a huge crisis, I have full confidence in your ability to carry out the duties that you have all been trained for.”

His speech finished, Drew took his place in the command chair, facing the forward viewscreen he gave his final orders:

“Ops, clear our departure with the Starbase, helm as soon as we are clear, set course for New Haven, maximum warp, engage!”

[kratak]

Watching Admiral Drew and Commander Hope sing were going to be in his thoughts for along time. The look of on Commander Hope's face was priceless, something he would enjoy for a very long time. When the alarm when off everybody was a little shocked at the interruption, it wasn't very often you got a alarm in space dock. He listened to the message like everybody else and to the orders from the Admiral.

As everybody left for there positions he caught up with the Admiral and rode with him to the bridge. It appeared he would be staying on for awhile, something he was not to thrilled about. He was going to have to deal with Commander Hope, something he was not quite ready for. But he wouldn't disappoint the Admiral he had placed alot of trust in him on there last mission making him the Acting Xo even to the point of Acting Captain of the hepta.

Still there dealings with the future Admiral Hope did not sit well with him. He couldn't get over what she had done. He was going to have to try and deal with it the best he could, because he wasn't going anywhere for awhile. He still felt out of place on this ship, it wasn't the hepta and he really didn't have a position to fill. The Hanson had a very capable Tactical officer them selves he should know he trained him.

Arriving on the bridge just a little head of Commander Youngblood and his cadets, he heard the Admiral orders for a full tactical alert. Walking over to the tactical station he started to bring systems on line waiting for Commander Youngblood to arrive.


He looked up to see him arriving just like he knew he would. The only reason he had even beaten to the bridge was because he rode with the Admiral. Stepping aside so Commander Youngblood could take over. " I just brought up all tactical systems, the computer is still going through its warm up cycle of safety checks. By the way congratulations on your promotion Commander I knew you would go far. So since I'm going to be stuck on this ship for awhile what can I do to assit you. I do not want to over step myself this is your ship not mine, so what ever I can do let me know"

Just then he saw Commander Hope arrive on the bridge, he had to restrain him self. All he wanted to do was go over and tell her what he thought of her. Luckily for him he was older now and knew better it wasn't going to be a easy mission. But if he was lucky he wouldn't have to interact with Commander Hope to much at least thats what he hope for.

[Deleted]

“I’ll do the best I can sir,” Noah replied to the Admiral's implied apology, then continued out of the Mess Hall with Bit with him.

While waiting for the turbolift, he took the opportunity to pass word down. He tapped his comm badge. "Bates to Engineering."

"Brac here, Commander," his Assistant CEO replied.

"Get this ship ready for departure on the double. I'm on my way down," he said while rolling into the turbolift.

"Already down, sir. The Bridge informed us," Brac replied. Noah smiled at that. "Well done. Bates out. Deck 12," he then instructed the turbolift.

"Bio-neural circuitry upgrade? Is that what I heard, sir?" Bit asked as they rode down.

"Aye, Cadet, you did. After 25 years they've finally improved the technology. We're now equipped with Mark 2 Bio-neural circuitry. The gel packs are more complex, and the system overall is more efficient. But I haven't been able to test out the system, so there may be a few bugs in it."

A minute later, they arrived in Engineering. "Well, Cadet, welcome to Main Engineering. The Bridge can be considered the brains of the ship, but this, this is its heart. And well it's immune system and a bunch of other things if you wish to take the biological analogy further, but anyway."

Noah turned his chair around to face his Cadet. "Alright, now, first, a couple of questions for you. First, why do you want to be an engineer, and second, what do you think it means to be an engineer?"