Digging in the Closet: Throwing out Old Clothes


 * Lisbet Ulrika

Digging in the Closet: Throwing Out Old Clothes

'' "They're trying to cut us off!!! Keep moving towards the L-Z! Conserve your ammunition and watch your spacing!" The team of Security officers followed Tom's orders to the letter as they leap frogged down the corridor back to the shuttle. Two-person pairs exchanged covering and then running as they fought through the scorched and forgotten remnants of the space station while blasts ricocheted and impacted around them. ''

'' Dutois took a grazing shot across his shoulder from a projectile rifle that removed a good chunk of flesh and fell groaning to the deck. Tom reached down and grabbed the strap of the PO's tactical vest across his back and using all of his adrenaline pumped energy, drug the man down the corridor. Sweat began to bead heavily on his brow and pour down his back as they poured into the large room where the shuttle had crashed through the walls of the station. Once inside, they set up a defensive front while the wounded were loaded. Captain Costala and the Vulcan woman they had come to rescue were taken inside as the approaching Xul began to be met by Federation phaser fire. The team was precise as they chose targets and knocked them down. ''

'' From the back of the horde a thunderous sound began to build. As the ranks in front began to part, Tom could see about thirty or forty Vutekh charging the defensive line like stampeding buffalo from an ancient west holovid. "Concentrate your fire!!! We can't let them break the line!!" ''

'' His voice was barely able to be heard over the raucous of pitched battle, the team did focus and began to quickly thin the herd, but it was too little too late. They broke through and brought the rest with them. Now the fight was different. Pockets of violence were spread around the room as the security team broke into pairs for mutual support. He had his back to Chris and they continued to pick and chose targets with precision. Then, Tom saw a Daughoff Rho with a large halberd bearing down on the unprotected back of Ben Pierce who was busy engaging another Vutekh. Tom turned, leveled his rifle, and pressed the trigger in one smoothe motion, eliminating the target. Then, there was a series of bright flashes and searing pain. ''

Tom bolted upright in his bed, a sheen of sweat covered his body, and his chest heaved as the last waves of adrenaline coursed through his blood while the scars up the left side of his stomach and chest burned like fresh wounds. He looked around the room, searching. Ghosts of Ali Mare of all species danced in his vision as he looked in every corner before turning to his left. Lisbet sat next to him, concern etched on her face.

“Another nightmare? Is this because we’re back her again?” Lisbet asked as she moved next to Tom and wrapped her arms around him. “Sweetness, I wish I could take them away, those memories that haunt you so much.”

He sagged into her arms with a heavy sigh, the ghosts still vaguely hanging in his eyes. "I don't think we need to go down that road again."

Slowly, Tom pulled himself from her embrace and slid from under the sheets, grabbing a robe to hold back the slight chill following his startling awakening. "I don't like bringing the ship here. The Xul could be out here ready to pounce when our back is turned. What if they launch another invasion? Our one ship won't stop them."

Bet sat in the bed, watching Tom slowly pace, “No, our one ship won’t stop them. But trust your crew to do all they can to avoid a surprise attack and to complete the mission we’ve been sent here to complete. Honestly, what they accomplished getting our warp core back should tell you that they’re a resourceful bunch, trust that and please trust yourself too.”

Tom stopped to look out the window at the infinite stars that streaked by with warp distorted light. The reflection of his face in the large windows was as haunting as the ghosts of the Ali Mare from his dream. "I do believe in the crew. I'm just not ready for another all-out war, and this is where the last one started. There's a lot of ghosts in that graveyard."

He spent what felt like minutes staring at the blackness of space, looking into the distance for something that wouldn't come. Finally, he turned back to look at Bet, who still sat on the bed, her knees pulled up to her chest. "I'm sorry. I haven't been much fun to be around lately."

“I don’t know about not being much fun, you’ve got a ship to take care of and I’ve got my own duties,” Bet said as she climbed out of bet and padded over to him next to the window and wrapped her arms around him again. “We complete this salvage, get back to Megiddo and get more crew members and you’ll be past this with no trouble. Trust that things will work out, they always do.”

He kissed the top of her head as she burrowed into his side, the smell of her hair almost intoxicating. "How did I end up with you? Even an Irishman can't be that lucky."

“I’m the one that’s lucky,” she said hugging him tightly. “But there isn’t luck, everything happens for a reason, or at least that’s what my mother would have me believe. Regardless, we have each other and that’s what matters.”

He laid his chin on Lisbet's head as he felt her warm body against his. A heavy sigh escaped his body as he wished he could go back to sleep. "When do we get leave again?"

“Not for a while I’m afraid and I haven’t heard back on my request for leave for our wedding. I suppose my CO has to give his stamp of approval,” Bet teased as they both peered out the window. Some found the light streaking past disconcerting when traveling warp speeds but Bet always found it soothing and awe inspiring.

Tom smiled wanly as he stood with her. The thought of their wedding seemed a million miles away. There was so much to do between now and then. In truth, he hadn't put in for his time off yet. It had been the last thing on his mind the past few weeks. "Your CO needs to put in his request off before he can process yours."

“Well you better get to work on that then, we’ll have very unhappy guests if we don’t show up. And could you imagine your Mother’s disappointment?”

Tom pulled his head back so he could look down into her dark eyes. "Have you already set a date with Mom? I thought we had a little time?"

“I’ve set the date with all interested parties...there was much negotiation with my mother too! But yes, we have plenty of time, don’t worry on that count. I’ll put it on your calendar too, if you want, just so you have it firmed up.”

For the first time, Tom felt his chest tighten. Knowing that there was now a firm plan made things different, and he didn't know if he liked that. The stars outside the window blurred slightly as thoughts raced through his head. The ship wasn't scheduled to return to Caloris for weeks, then it would be fully commissioned and fitted out for duty. How was he going to be able to find time to travel back to Earth, get married, and have a honeymoon. It was looking difficult, and so he knew he would have to talk it over with the admiral when they returned to the station.

“Its thirty six months from now, so I imagine we’ll have plenty of time to take care of all that we need to,” Bet said, sensing his sudden unease.

He took a deep breath to let his pulse settle when he heard that he had been saved, at least as far as he was concerned. "Well, I guess you better give me that date. I'll process my request accordingly. How long do you think we should take off?"

“I think that’s up to you, don’t even know where you want to go or what you want to do. Besides, by tradition, isn’t the honeymoon planned by the groom?” Bet smiled as she saw Tom’s eyes become large again, “And you thought you’d been saved, didn’t you?”

“Well, actually...yes.” Tom’s brow creased as he thought about the honeymoon. ''Where do you go for a honeymoon? I mean Risa is not really the place to take your new wife...'' He looked back down at Lisbet’s face, which was turned up to him. When their eyes met, another thought went through his head. ''Oh crap! She just heard that...''

Bet smiled up at him, enjoying his wriggling uncomfortableness. “I think I mentioned touring some spots on Earth, since we’ll be there. You know, the Pyramids of Egypt...or Stonehenge and other spots of the Isles. Honestly though Sweetness, anywhere with you will be perfect.”

Earth. Just the name of the planet was comforting. They hadn’t been back since they picked up the ship from McKinley Station. Though that had only been a few months ago, it seemed like an eternity. His mother felt the same way, or so her last message said. The time seemed to drag by as of late, most of that probably due to the stress. There hadn’t been time to spend off-duty, as it seemed that the captain never got time off. “I think lounging around on Earth for a couple of weeks, or maybe longer, would be fantastic. We’ll have to see what the Admiral says. Of course, staying on Earth keeps us in close proximity to Mom and everyone else who could just pop in. We might look at someplace far away.”

“The only person crass enough to ‘pop in’ would be my mother, but she’s not fond of Earth. I imagine she’ll be leaving just as soon as she can. But, if we don’t pass along our itinerary how could anyone find us?”

Tom’s arms tightened when Bet mentioned her mother. The memory of meeting Dunja wasn’t such a pleasant moment. But then he started to smile. “Well, you do know Chris has Raul to track us down.”

A JP brought to you by the future Mr. and Mrs. O'Flagherty
 * 09-02-2011, 22:22

Edward Pellew Edward moved toward his berth, he should have been tired but he was wide awake. He had just gotten off double twelve hour shifts. If he had to look at one more communications array or transport one more crate of lord knows what, he might have gone AWAL. Lieutenant Mari had him pulling double duty in communications and in the transporter rooms. One of his medic friends gave him a energy spray. The stuff was amazing, but he was told that if it wore off and he wasn’t in his bunk he would pass out where ever he was. The doors slid back and his berth mates were seemed happy to see him.

“Alright guys, where’s the fire,” He asked not really caring to hear the response.

One of the three men started, “you got a package Pellew and well…..we have nothing better to do.”

Pellew walked over to his bunk and picked up the package. It was heavy but that made it all the more exciting. He read the note that has attached to it. The package had a fancy looking P in between two lions. The note read as follows.

''Dear Big brother, I know that you have fallen out of favor with Mother and Father but my news may help. First of all I have eloped with Lord Hood’s daughter and neither of the parties is very happy but at least our families are connected like they wanted. I know she was being saved for you but I hope this next new will make up for any heart ache this may cause (though I doubt there is any seeing as how you couldn’t stand her.) As you know I was in the process of selling my entrepreneurial efforts up to this point. I have recently acquired two tobacco companies in Honduras area and three breweries out of Alabama in the Americas. In order to do so I had to name a partner so I put you down. So if Mother and Father cut you off you’ll be set. Plus we have a distribution in the alpha and gamma quadrants. I have enclosed samples of tobacco and cigars and a bottle of our whiskey I hope you enjoy them. With regards Your Brother, Horatio''

Edward put the note down and picked up the package. It was wrapped in brown paper with twine. He untied it then began to rip the paper open. There was a glass bottle of whiskey and a wooden box. In it were cigars, pipe tobacco and a clay pipe with the bowl in the shape of an old man blowing. Edward looked at his bunk mates, “Boys, this is the first official opening of the Atlas Man Club!”

The boys cheered and all grabbed their coffee mugs. Edward gave them each a cigar and grabbed himself the pipe. He filled the bowl and lit it with three good puffs. He grabbed the bottle; it had the P with the two lions on either side. Surrounding the cats read Pellew Brothers Brewery. He poured the contents in the mugs. He sipped his own and the smooth liquid slid down his throat. He sat on his bunk and thought of his fortune. First, he is rid of an unwanted romantic entanglement, second his parents probably weren’t angry with him though he expected a heated letter or call from his mother and lastly he would be set financially if his parents did cut him off.

His next thought was “oh bloody hell, what trouble could be on the horizon.” No sooner had the thought occurred to him than he passed out mid puff and thought.
 * 09-03-2011, 16:12

Jacey Adams “Stupid..” She grumbled as the console beeped back at her. The inertial dampeners were still out of whack. Their previous adjustments had sorted out most of the internal issues but it was that tiny little bit, that point nothing of a percent, that had Jacey wanting to kick the console.

“Hey,” Jacey said to a passing engineer, “You wouldn’t by any chance have a magic wand up your sleeve?”

Adina skidded to a halt as someone addressed her, a quick glance at the yellow-gold collar telling her it was a superior officer, by instinct Adina’s back straightened as she turned. “Ma’am?”

“Ma’am?” Jacey raised a brow, “That’s a new one.”

Adina allowed herself a small smile, “I can address you with something else if you wish...sir.”

She laughed, “I guess...I didn’t really expect I’d get a name change along with my very small rank change. I literally feel exactly like I did before I was...well still on the lowest rung of a very long ladder.” Jacey added, “Jacey is fine, please.”

Adina chuckled, offering her hand in greeting. “Adina Wolfe, what was that you were saying about a...magic wand?”

“Every play on a teeter totter? You balance one end and the other moves. It seems as if I’m playing with an internal teeter totter that hates me.” Her shoulder’s slumped slightly.

Adina tilted her head slightly, taking in the control panel behind Jacey. “Oh, the inertial dampeners, was wondering why my left side felt a lil heavy... “

“Yea..” Jacey shook her head,” Our sudden stop threw a lot of things out, like an old woman with a bad hip falling down the stairs.” She pressed a few buttons, “We need to compensate here and that causes overcompensation..well...all over. I can’t seem to make everyone happy.”

“I take it we’ve covered all the physical possibilities? Technical glitches, loose connections, that kind of thing?”

“We’re working on it. We’ve got so much ground to cover. Every time I think we’ve got it sorted someone else reports something else they’ve found. It doesn’t help that people are blowing holes in our ship.”

“Yeah I heard about that,” Adina nodded. “Chief didn’t look that put out that he lost his quarters though... Hmm, I take it all the physical faults being found aren’t showing up on the Diagnostics?”

“Not all of them,” Jacey raised her brow, “I hadn’t thought of that...”

Adina slid over to a nearby console and pulled up the latest diagnostic results on the screen, “Do you have a record of where the hidden faults were ‘hiding’?”

Jacey grabbed her PADD and pulled up the list, “Here we go, they formed an almost perfect curve from deck two to seven.” She handed over the PADD.

“Let’s see now, that sections covered by at least 4 different internal sensor banks, not to mention the self diagnostics....” Adina scratched her head lightly, her eyes flickering across the info before her. “Have we thought to run a diagnostic on the internal sensors yet?”

“Well Rebecca was supposed to have done that yesterday, although I ...haven’t seen her report as of yet,” She paused, “Perhaps I should prod her a little on that. She’s easily distracted.”

Adina chuckled, her hands already pulling up another schematic. “I know the feeling. Now then, if we’re only missing faults on this line, what would happen if we re-routed internal sensors from say..here?” She pointed to an adjacent bank of sensors to the line of reported faults. “Scan that whole area again with a pair of working eyes so to speak.””

“We could try that,” Jacey offered a smile, “You’re a little angel you are.”

“I seem to be building a reputation.” Adina blushed. “I’m just thinking out loud most of the time...”

“Please think out loud next to me whenever you wish,” Jacey said with a light laugh, “I could use the help.” It felt odd to be having a decent conversation with someone. Jacey had yet to really interact with anyone in a simple or generically friendly way, “Which area do you work in?”

“Power systems. Warp, Slipstream, EPS, that kinda y’know...” Adina offered.

“So you do the stuff that makes us go faster, and I stop the ship from falling apart while ya do,” She laughed, “It works lovely.”

Adina tapped away at the console, watching the fresh diagnostic reports come in... “Hmm, looks like we’re onto something, I’m reading some faults you haven’t got on here...Including one in the starboard diagnostic processor of the inertial dampeners on Deck Four. That might be why you can’t get the dampeners to level out, you’re working on duff readings. Maybe even fixing something that isn’t actually broken.”

Jacey nodded, “I can’t believe we missed that.” she promptly added, “I’ll get a few people up to deck four to see whats there. Maybe we can finally get some proper readings.” Inwardly Jacey was kicking herself. As grateful as she was, since Adina had brought a lot of questions into light, it still made her feel a little jealous that she hadn’t figured it out, “Thanks.”

“Not a problem.” Adina smiled, “Though if you will excuse me I have to scoot, I just remembered I got called down here....”

“I’ll see you around then,” Jacey said with a smile.

“Aye, see you!” And with one more smile Adina sprinted off deeper into Engineering...
 * 09-05-2011, 21:53

Edward Pellew Edward was feeling great. A good pipe smoke and a drop of whisky was just what the doctor seemed to order and maybe the four hours of sleep that he received after he passed out. He had all of twenty minutes until he had to be back with Chief Patel in the transporter rooms. He stopped in the crew’s mess deck.

As he walked in. he ordered a cup of coffee from the replicators. He glanced over and his shadow with blonde hair and green eyes was sitting alone. He took a gulp of coffee then marched over to her. He stood for a moment and then cleared his throat. She glanced up.

“Yes, can I help you?”

Edward opened his mouth to speak. “May I sit?”

She shot him a cold response, “If you must.”

Edward sat, “who pissed in your cheerios?”

The girl’s face suddenly flushed red. “I’m sorry, I’m working on a issue for my department and I’m going on no sleep.”

Edward nodded sympathetically. “I completely understand. I just woke up from a quick nap. I’m Edward by the way.”

The color returned to her face she half smiled/smirked. “I’m Ashley. I’ve noticed you around the mess a lot recently.”

Edward took another sip of his coffee. “Yeah Ive wanted to come introduce myself for a quick minute but time has never afforded it, speaking of which I am due in the cargo transporter rooms.”

She moved her bang out of her face. “Well I hope I see you around.”

Edward smiled, “how about mid rats after my shift?”

She considered it for a moment. “I’ll be off before they serve midnight rations, so…….yeah I’ll see you at mid rats.” “It’s a date.” With that Edward marched off with almost a pep in his step.

CARGO TRANSPORTER ROOM

Edward walked into the transporter room.

“Pellew, where have you been? We got to get these freaking crates moved into the storage hold. “

“Calm down Chief, I’m only a second late. Plus, I come bearing gifts.” Edward brandished a couple of cigars.

“Nice Pellew what’s the occasion. You didn’t knock the Admiral’s Daughter up did you?”

“No Chief, quite the opposite. I’m brother ran off with her and made me his partner in his Tobacco and alcohol companies.”

“Well look what we have here, we got ourselves a regular bar supplier on our hands. You should have brought some hooch!”

Edward pulled a flask and tossed it to the chief. “It’s our brand.”

The chief took a swig. “Woo, man! That’s some high quality shit. Make sure when you speak to your brother you get a bottle and a few more stogies for me. On the I’m your chief and can make your life a living hell discount.”

“Sure chief, Shall we get started?”

The two took their places and began transferring crates from where they were to the storage hold. After several hours, they finished.

“Well thank God for you Pellew, it would have taken me twice the amount of time to get all this moved.”

Edward shrugged, “Just doin me job. “ Edward glanced at the time on his console. “Holy fricking Moses. I got to get to operations and start on some more of those communications power cylinders. Petty Officer Harrison will have my arss!”

“Then run my little bootlegger friend .“ With that, Edward got hustled out the room and ran to the turbo lift.
 * 09-06-2011, 07:07

Katie Banninga [On the holodeck]

After the other team was captured Peter and Katie hit behind a wall so that they could come up with another strategy. ”What if we go along the other side” Katie said.. It was the third idea she had came up with. ”We could try it, waiting behind this wall won’t take us any further.” Peter agreed.

As soon as they started walking Katie noticed a unguarded door. ”Don’t say that door is there the whole time” Peter grumbled. Katie looked trough the window and saw that the door was leading to a hallway without any guards. They went in and saw another door. ”Ok, all or nothing” Peter said while he opened the door closely.

Then suddenly the holodeck grid appeared and Ensign Joel walked in the room. ”Time’s up” he said. ”You weren't able to save the hostages within the time, but don;’t worry, you have another change soon.”

”We were so close!” Katie said. She didn’t like to lose.

“You’ll have 30 minutes to change and eat before you must report to weapons maintenance”[/i] Joel said while he walked out of the room.

Peter helped Katie up to her feet. ”Thanks” ”I’ll see you in in the arms arsenal on the ninth?” she said to Peter while walking to her quarters.

[Later in the arms arsenal]

“And the last one” Katie said while taking another phaser. They were cleaning the phasers for the last couple hours. ''”At least we don’t have to do this in our next shift. What do you like better, sentry or patrol?”'' she asked Peter. ”I’m more of a sentry guy” he said while keeping his eye on the phaser he was working on. ”and you?”

”I like patrol better, getting to know the ship and getting some exercise in one, and all that while working, what do you want more.”

<>

''”Yes, finally. I thought this shift was never going to be over”'' Katie said while putting her gear back in the locker.

”Wanna grab some dinner when this shift is over” Peter asked her as they were walking to the security office. ''”Sorry, now. I’m going straight for bed. I really need to get some sleep.”'' Katie replyed.

[20 minutes later]

As soon as she walked in her quarters she took off her jacket and put it on a chair. Luckily her roommates were gone. She went in to the bedroom and threw herself on her bed. As soon as she was lying she closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep.
 * 09-06-2011, 21:33

Gerhardt Rahner “Alpha shifts,” Jacey grumbled quietly from her place in engineering, “Annoying, Agitating, Aggravating, Absolutely Evil!”

Her sleep, or lack of, probably had to do with her lovely demeanor. The sofa’s in the Mess were not half as comfortable as her own bed but, give the choice between listening to people eat versus listening to Apryl’s resonant...tone; the sofa was preferable.

Having checked over the morning data for her department Jacey sighed and headed towards the Chief’s office, “Okay girl...”she said to herself as she walked, “No stuttering. No being flustered. No blushing. It’s been well over a month. You should be fine.”

Her finger reached out and pressed the chimes, “Is he even awake right now?”

The turbolift door opened and Gerhardt power walked out, just zipping up his uniform. He had run back to his new quarters to use the ‘fresher and get a new uniform that didn’t smell of scotch and cigar smoke. He always tried to be early, but his side-track put him making it to his office just on time.

His normal path to his office took him through the pit. “Sir,” Baelika, the female Klingon in charge of E&E, matched his stride and offered a padd, “I’ve got the reports on the power couplings, and I’ve included a report of decreased efficiency in the starboard secondary EPS conduits, but I’ve already got someone looking into it, just giving you a heads-up in case it turns into a bigger problem.”

“Thank you, Ensign. I am sure you will handle it properly,” Gerhardt said over his shoulder as she stopped and he kept on.

Turning left out of the pit, Gerhardt looked up at the reactor as he past it on his right. “Good to see you back,” shouted Ayla from the opposite side of the reactor chamber. She added with a smile, “And rested, finally!”

Gerhardt waved the padd in his hand at her and grinned back. Circling around the reactor chamber, he came at last to the lift up to his level. As he rode up, he began to peruse the padd and didn’t look up as the lift stopped and he stepped off. His feet had trod this walkway so many times in the past weeks, he turned automatically, and walked straight into Jacey pushing the chime once more.

“Ah! Ensign Adams, I apologize,” Gerhardt floundered. Side-stepping her into the office, he waved her in, turning back to finish reading the line he was on and moving to sit at his desk. “Please come in; help yourself to a drink and a seat. How may I help you?”

“Uh...” She floundered as she straightened her uniform, “I... was just coming to give you the...I mean my report.” The PADD moved from her hand and to his, “We’re still cataloging all the damage but the repairs are a lot more complex in certain areas. Your quarters, for example. We’re also still finding small warping issues here and there from our sudden stop but, that’s nothing that won’t be remedied within the next week.”

“Well done, Ensign. I will review your report momentarily,” his voice came to a stop as he looked up and noticed Jacey’s demeanor. “Um, I do not want this to sound rude, but you are looking a bit... disheveled. Did you have a rough night, Jacey?”

Jacey looked down at her uniform, “I...” She hadn’t noticed the creases in her uniform and her hair probably wasn’t really even brushed, “I..am so sorry Sir. Early shifts always throw me off and I hadn’t had time to return to my room yet. I’ll fix myself as soon as I get a break.”

“Nothing to worry over,” Gerhardt tried to reassure her. “Lord knows I have arrived for duty in much worse states. I was just concerned. I do not want anyone to experience undue stress. If I may ask, is there a problem with your room we can resolve?”

“Just the fun of having roommates with...active lifestyles.” She shrugged, “I ..slept in the mess last night.”

“Slept in the mess?” Gerhardt repeated incredulously. “Ensign Adams,” he began, sounding for all the world like an indignant school master, “as Commander Vaughn has forced upon me to realize, we are a skeleton crew of a massive starship. There are racks aplenty. And if there were not, what keeps you from transferring to new quarters? I have no doubt that ops could reassign you.”

The irony of the situation struck him at that moment. Here he was laying out the very same reasoning Chris had given him when he had installed a hammock in his office. He contained a self-jabbing smirk and maintained his composure.

“I didn’t want to cause any problems, Sir. I’m more than aware how busy we are with repairs and the last thing I wanted to do was waste someones time with a petty issue like this.” She raised her brow, “Besides, if the Chief is reduced to a hammock as his quarters are currently under repair -what hope does an Ensign have of solace from her rather noisy roommates love making?”

“The Chief was ordered to find new quarters and remove the hammock from his office by our, shall we say, colorful XO,” Gerhardt corrected. “I realize that finding new quarters may have been easier for me, since I did not need an ops officer to assist me, so I will not repeat the order to you. But I would recommend that you at least schedule an ops crewman’s time to find new quarters. If, however, that recommendation must go unheeded for whatever reason, I think I can still offer you better solace than mess benches. Follow me.”

With that he stepped around his desk and marched out the door of his office, passing the lift to the main floor of engineering and staying on the walkway around the warp core chamber. He stopped just on the other side of the core, before the walkway curved back around where it could be seen from the main floor, and waited for Jacey to catch up.

Blinking rapidly at the sudden change, Jacey turned on her heels and followed the Chief, “ Don’t tell me we’ve installed beds in Engineering.”

Gerhardt chuckled slyly. “Not quite. I must make you swear to secrecy at this point. I have informed no other crew member of this, and if word about this gets out, I will throw your ass out the airlock before Commander Vaughn has a chance to throw my ass in the brig.”

With that, he popped open the access panel along the wall to reveal an EPS conduit which he used as a step to reach the ceiling panel. Removing that with a light push upwards, he used the ledge provided by its absence to pull himself into the gap above. And it truly was nothing more than a simple gap, a space between the outer hull and the deck and outer wall of deck 9 roughly 2 meters wide by 3 meters long by 5 meters high, seeming to serve no purpose until Gerhardt had secretly reinstalled his hammock here.

He gazed down through the open panel at Jacey and grinned. “As Commander Vaughn says,” here putting on his best impersonation of the XO, however distorted by his German accent, “This isn’t a goddamn Spanish galleon, and we sure as hell don’t hang hammocks in Main Engineering!”

He slid down through the hole and dropped to the walkway below. Returning to his own voice and diction, he said, “It is not technically in Main Engineering, so I think a decent JAG officer could get me out of an Article 90 charge. But in the event of a crisis, I will want to be readily available at my station. I have not used this space yet, and hope never to need it, but it is there should the need arise. And should you need a place to sleep, and should you still refuse my recommendation to transfer rooms, you may use this when your roommate is... being too noisy. However, I must reiterate my warning; if word of this gets out, to anyone, your ass will go down before they mine. Agreed?”

Jacey couldn’t help her giant ear to ear smile, “Agreed, Sir.” She covered her grin with her hand, “This is like something out of a childhood dream. That secret passageway in the house that nobody else knows about.” If she could have she would have hugged her Chief. That in itself was a giant leap forward in trusting someone of his position, “And believe me, you don’t need to worry about Vaughn. His name may be infamous around the galaxy, but he sure as hell isn’t all he brags to be.” She was lying of course, but it still felt good saying it.

With a childish squeal she moved over to the hammock, “Is there a secret to one of these things?”

Gerhardt shrugged. “Just roll in. It is much more comfortable with a strong drink and a good book, but I think we should keep this to a minimum.” He paused contemplatively before continuing, “I do not think this is the only hidden unused space on this ship, but I cannot put a finger on why.”

Jacey shrugged, “All the better to confuse you with my dear.”

A JP of hidden passages that might give the JAG office a headache on behalf of Jacey Adams and me.
 * 09-07-2011, 12:11

Aelan Why do these things always seem to happen to me? Aelan thought as he carried his few belongings off of the shuttle onto yet another ship. This made three in less than a year- at least the Skorr was getting good at moving. And in his copious amounts of free time on the journey here, he had been able to look over the crew manifest and see a few familiar names. They probably won’t even remember me, he had thought pessimistically, clearly ignoring the fact that he was a fairly memorable sight.

He passed very few other officers in the corridors- something that he barely noticed. The Epoch had had such a small crew that he could go an entire day without seeing anyone if he had desired it. And he often had.

Looking down again at the schematic of the Atlas on his PADD, he realized again how massive the ship was. It would be easy for him to remain anonymous. Just how he liked it. ''I just hope my roommates are quiet. And hopefully not around very often,'' he thought as he neared his quarters. He checked the room location on his PADD once.. or three times more.. before finally pressing the chime. A loud crash sounded behind the door, and then it slid open to reveal a smiling Trill.

“Hey! You must be Cadet Aelan! I’m Petty Officer Kynnovan Sorath. We’re going to be working together!” he exclaimed as he practically pulled the unsuspecting Skorr into the small room. “Uhhh don’t mind the mess,” he stated as they had to pick their way over the mess of clothing, equipment, and various other personal effects on the floor. “This’ll be your bed here. Umm just let me clean it off.” He grabbed the pile of dirty laundry that was on one of the lower beds and simply threw it on the floor.

“Hey new guy!” another voice exclaimed from the now open bathroom door. “I’m Phoss! Nice to meet you,” the Denobulan said. “Make yourself at home! There’s one more in here- Cadet Macalister, but he’s on duty right now,”

“Nice to meet you both, too,” Aelan finally said, realizing he hadn’t spoken since entering the room. “I just transferred here from.. well, it’s kind of a long story.”

“So can you fly?” Kynnovan suddenly blurted, his eyes still wide open, same slightly goofy smile on his face.

“Uh yeah, yeah I can,” Aelan responded.

“Sweeeet,” he said, nodding. “When you have some time off, we should go to the holodeck. I have an awesome hang gliding program. But you won’t even need a hang glider!”

“Okay, sure,” the Skorr said, not sure what hang gliding was. But hey, at least he seemed to already be making friends.

“Hey Ky, aren’t you on duty now?” Phoss, who had moved over to his bed, asked.

“Oh crap, I totally forgot! Hopefully Dr. Ulrika will forgive me, given I was greeting the newest member of her department,” he said even quicker than he had been speaking before. He threw on his uniform shirt and practically flew out the door.

“Yeah, I should get going, too,” said Phoss. “We’ve all been working like dogs to get this ship in working condition. You should get settled in, then go find Dr. Ulrika. She’s the CMO,”

Aelan was about to explain that he already knew the Doctor, when suddenly Phoss was also heading out the door. The Skorr sat for a moment, enjoying the silence. And wondering why these things always seemed to happen to him.
 * 09-09-2011, 22:46

Gerhardt Rahner Chief Engineer's Log, Stardate 64677.7

''For the first time in months, I have few pertinent details to add to this log. Repairs are continuing on schedule and with only a few surprises. T'Lara and Mott both report all systems go from Reactor and Propulsion divisions, which is frankly surprising considering the amount of damage to both. Baelika's E&E division no doubt had a hand in that. According to her most recent report, they focused most heavily on the damaged power connectors. It does not seem to have been at the detriment of the rest of their work, but her report included a decreased efficiency in the starboard secondary EPS conduits. This may be explained by the fault in the starboard diagnostic processor of the inertial dampeners on Deck Four noted in Jacey's report.''

Unfortunately for her, Structural division seems to have the most work. Our sudden stop and ejection took a major toll on the Atlas' structure. I cannot imagine our desperate dual warp-bubble propulsion helped with that either. Heath from DC has parts of his crew helping with the systems that were hit the worst. I have yet to receive a report from Mason York. This makes three late reports in a row. I tried to speak with him about it last time and he seemed recalcitrant, but it seems that was a farce. He always seems distracted.

I am pleased to report that, after three check-ups, Dr. Ulrika has given my heart a clean bill of health. I am still on orders from the CMO, XO, and Captain to maintain my current, slower pace, but I feel strange not being constantly hands-on. It feels like forever since I did any actual engineering.

Gerhardt submitted his report and closed down his console. He rose from his desk, put on his uniform coat, and left his office quietly. The lift carried him down to the main floor of Engineering and he strolled to the pit, glancing over shoulders as he passed engineers busy at work checking consoles and making minute adjustments. He stopped in front of the plotboard MSD and put his arms behind his back at parade rest. The MSD glowed a light blue on his face and reflect in his inquiring eyes. There were still some red sections of the ship display, but the ship was flying. And when his ship is flying, what more can an engineer ask for?
 * 09-14-2011, 22:34

Jacey Adams MAIN OPS: Edward had walked into the OPS station. He was sweating from running. His LPO came over to him.

“Pellew, you’re late.”

“Yes, but I........”

“Save it for the mess deck, Lt has a job for you, go see her right away.”

NoEdward turned on his heel and walked toward Lt Mari’s office. He tapped the chime and waited to bidden to enter.

“Pellew, I need you to go to main engineering and work on the distribution of power to non-essential systems for that deck. Report in to the officer on duty.”

Edward replied with an “aye ma’am” and walked off toward main engineering.

Jacey tilted her neck lightly, a sad attempt to loosen the rather stiff muscles. It was a relief to know that there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Now, no matter what Miller said or did with Apryl - she had a safe place to bunk down for the night. A brief smile touched her lips as she thought back to her conversation with the Chief. He was slowly gaining points in her books.

“Lost Pellew?” She asked as the slim engineer moved past.

“No ma’am, I am to report to the officer of the deck to start work on power distribution”, he said.

Edward was not surprised that she had thought that he was lost. He had a bewildered look about him. He had a thousand things in his mind but thank goodness for distractions like work,

“Ma’am, am I to report to you?”

Raising her brow Jacey shook her head, “I am an officer, but I doubt I’m the highest ranking one around.” A shrug followed “Although given that we’re all running around like chickens with our heads missing - good luck finding someone else.”

“Well hell ma’am, then I guess I just reported in.”

Edward moved toward the power station and got to work. He began by analyzing the current usage. Currently the main systems were receiving the majority of the power and now he had to partition some of that for some of the non-essential systems such as holo suites and personal replicators. He pressed some buttons then the power flickered. “Oh shit!” “Oh shit?” Jacey queried.

Edward bit his lip. “I think I hit something. The power levels to life support are dropping.”

Edward started transferring power from the main deflectors. Edward sighed, “Ok never mind I fixed it. Ma’am for some reason when I tried to add power usage to the holo decks it suddenly started to drain power from a main system.”

“You may need to head up there and see what’s going on. There’s been cracks all over the place, if something warped the wiring - that’s going to be fun to figure out.” Jacey looked over his shoulder, “Then again who needs life support.”

“Yeah air is overrated. I dont see why we need the holo-decks at full capacity anyway.”

The officer’s face showed no sign of an answer so he grabbed his padd and went to check the deck.

When Edward arrived he walked in the door and “gees o’petes” he thought. The issue had to be some type of wiring or malfunction. The suite was on and Edward walked from the deck of a star ship to a vast jungle oasis. he walked in and past the first palm tree he came to a pool with Tahitian beauties sunbathing and what looked like Starfleet officer’s playing Volleyball.

=^= Crewman Pellew to Ensign Adams =^= “Ma’am I think I know what the initial problem is.”

=/\=Which would be?=/\= Jacey inquired.

“Ma’am it looks like a beach party gone FRAT!”

Jacey rolled her eyes, “Miller...” She brought out a small grin, =/\=Pellew, alert the XO to it - and cut the power to the holodeck. If they give you any trouble, tell them you’re following orders. No holodeck use until after all the repairs have been finished=/\=

“Roger that.”

Edward walked passed the tree and stepped over a topless Tahitian. He could have cut the power elsewhere but he figured it was the little joys that made life great. He saw what had happened. they were muching power already and when Edward had tried to transfer more power the way they had it set up it caused a reaction that started to drain power super fast.

Edward shut the power completely off.

“what the hell, who the hell do you think you are?”

Edward grinned, “Just consider me the IFC.”

“What the hell, and stand to attention when you are addressing an officer. By whose authority are you disrupting our mixer?”

“Well sir, with all do respect A. OPS officer B. Ensign Adams. If you have any questions ask her.”

“Adams...that stupid little bitch-”

Miller, who’d been in the crowd put a hand on his friends shoulder, “Adams is friends with Vaughn.”

“Vaughn? Our XO is friends with that little nobody?” He snorted in disbelief.

“I saw them getting cosy in the Officer’s Mess after we left.” Miller paused, “I know it’s insane but I’m not up for getting on his bad side again.”

There was a brief pause, “Whatever - that girl’s going to get it one of these days.”

Slowly, the party disbanded.

Edward waited until constituents of the party left then he took another look at what they had done. It was quite smart. The wired it to run on minimal power and not raise alarm on the power readers in OPS.

Edward marched out and went back to Engineering. The procedure went much smoother.

“And......N..o..w! We can have that beach party.”

“Eh?” Jacey said with a raised brow.

“I fixed it, I have the non-essential systems running on full power agian. so the holo deck is fully operational.”

“Let’s not tell anyone that,” Jacey said with a grin, “Why don’t we just pretend it’s dead?”

Pellew winked.

“Aye Aye ma’am.”

“Good boy,” She patted Pellew on the head, “That’ll do.”

-A few hours later--

"Adams."

Jacey turned to see a new face standing by her side, "Yes?"

"I hear you're the reason our holoparty ended rather abruptly." He looked her over, a look of obvious distaste on his face.

"The XO has given orders..."Jacey began.

"To hell with the XO. Who's team are you on?" He moved closer, "The guy who shut it down said you, not the XO, were responsible."

"What?" Jacey judged the distance and given his aggressive tone, her lack of ability to move if he tried anything was minute.

"It was an Engineering party. We rigged that holo to keep it from the XO's killer gaze and now he's going to know because of you." He looked her over, "I know you're playing a game, and I think you're playing it in a very dangerous way."

"Game?" Jacey raised her brow.

"Apryl talks. A lot. She says you talk in your sleep." He smirked, "You're too good to spend time with us but apparently the XO..."

Jacey's eyes widened, "What are you..."

"Stuff it. You better realized that, although this is a big ship, you're picking on the wrong people. You're forgetting that not all of us here like people like you. So you have two choices, either you can stop pretending you're better than all of us, or you can learn what it really is like to be an outsider."

"I don't ...are you threatening me?" Jacey smirked, "Seriously? What century are you from? The era with stone wheels?"

"So smart with that tongue," He offered a grin, "Keep it locked or put it to better use."

Jacey watched him leave before sinking against the console, "Great.."

--A jp with the random and wonderful Pellew
 * 09-14-2011, 23:58

Christopher Vaughn ''':::XO’s Stateroom:::
 * USS Atlas, 0625 MST:::'''

The rustling of the sheets was the first thing that woke the Atlas’s executive office. A soft light in the corner of the bedroom followed, silhouetting a figure moving. Chris opened his eyes to see Amy Finch sliding into her undergarments. He glanced over to the clock on his nightstand; his alarm wouldn’t be going off for another five minutes.

Chris watched for a moment as Amy cast about the bedroom clearly looking for something while pulling her hair back in a pony tail. “In the living room, on my desk I think.” Chris said stretching.

She left the bedroom for a few moments before returning; now wearing a wrinkled medical uniform. Standing in front of his full length mirror she tried to adjusted the outfit and brush the wrinkles out – unsuccessfully.

“I didn’t mean to fall sleep over here last night, I don’t even have time to go to my quarters and get a fresh uniform.” Amy said, reading the clock from the mirror. “I’m supposed to be on duty in like, five minutes.”

Chris smiled, adjusting one of the pillows behind his head. “Just tell Lisbet you had an early meeting with the XO. I’m sure she will understand.”

“I’ve got to go.” Amy finished, leaning over and offering Chris a deep kiss before rushing out of his quarters.

After another moment Chris disabled the alarm before it could start going off. “Computer, start morning routine.” The lights in is quarters came on to a low setting, the replicator produced a cup of black Columbian coffee and he could hear his shower activate at his preferred temperature. A PADD on his desk flipped on and downloaded his schedule.

By 0730 Chris was stopping in his office to get a copy of the mid-watch logs, as usual he replicated a second cup of coffee and a light breakfast while he skimmed over the off-shift reports to prepare for the morning staff meeting. Nothing sexy. he noted as he finished the his meal and the logs.

=/\= Time is currently 0750 =/\= the computer reminded him.

“Fucking staff meetings.” Chris mumbled collecting his PADD and replicating a third coffee. In a few moments he was swaggering into the Wardroom and dropping into his seat, followed shortly by the captain. While his position on the ship allowed him many excuses to avoid the tedious staff meetings Tom had pointed out if he was forced to suffer through them so would Chris at least some of the time. As the first hour of the staff meeting ticked away Chris considered that theft of the warp core might be preferable to listening to the department heads drone on about resource allocation and staffing issues. What was almost as painful was the look on Tom’s face as he too was clearly struggling to push through. Tom however at least kept his expression neutral to everyone save Chris who knew him too well to be fooled. On the other hand Chris would frequently remind the department heads that he and the captain had ‘places to be later’ if they started to get bogged down in less pressing details. Sometimes he would throw in remarks to speed the process along. “Bottom line it for me” or “Are we still talking about that issue or can I let my mind wander?”

Fortunately by this time the department heads were learning to keep things moving with a minimum of nonsense. The meeting typically only lasted about an hour now, and even that seemed too long. Weighing in at the 1 hour and 23 minute mark Tom finally said the magic words, “Well, if that is everything...dismissed.”

Too much longer and I might have cut myself. Chris ducked out of the Wardroom hoping to avoid any of the others asking for him to approve a special work orders, provide some guidance on a personal conflict or help them get additional resources. Successfully evading the sycophants this round he made his way back to his office, dropped into the seat behind his desk and started on a stack of PADDs - time for the real work



“I can’t believe I’m willingly entering another office of his,” Jacey mumbled quietly as she pressed the chimes.

“What?” he replied. The computer understood that response to be the same as other officers ‘enter.’ He didn’t bother looking up from the paperwork he was reviewing.

Entering the room, Jacey paused and waited a few moments - as he was obviously enthralled in whatever he was reading, “Ahem...” She said quietly, growing slightly impatient.

Chris glanced up and set down the PADD he was working on. “Jacey, you must have gotten my work order for the holo-emitters in my office.”

“Holo-emitters?” She raised her brow, “Actually...no.”

“I see.” Chris said, standing. He walked over to the bar and poured himself a scotch and returned to his seat. “In that case what brings you all the way to deck 2?”

Jacey’s hands went through her hair as she found the words, “I’m here to properly report, and yet not …report...” She paused, “Okay, I can’t tell you that ...okay I am telling you that - but pretend it wasn’t me telling you that - we shut down a holo-party.” Another deep breath, “But it wasn’t so much the party as it was so much the fact that they purposely rewired the systems so that it wouldn’t be noticed and in doing so could have potentially caused some damage...luckily it didn’t but...” She stopped, “Get the picture?”

“Who.” it was a cold tone Chris rarely found a need to use. It implied more an order than a question.

“Do I really need to tell you that?” Jacey winced at the thought of what would happen to them and in turn to her.

“Before I start the executions yes. I want to make sure I’m shooting the right people.” Chris leaned in his chair. “And what else is there?”

“I’m not entirely sure who was involved,” Not exactly a lie as much as a half truth, “It was for Engineering - I’m pretty sure Miller would know...”She quickly added, “I’m sure that if you ...don’t do anything...it won’t happen again?” Okay that was a lie.

“You don’t sound very sure, ensign.” Chris replied carefully eying Jacey. “I’ll deal with Miller, thank you. Anything else I should know?”

Jacey shook her head, “Nope.” I’m going to die...

“Very well then. That will be all.” Chris said reclining in the chair and rubbing his chin.

Jacey nodded, “Thank you, Sir...” She turned and then quickly turned about again, “Okay - taking aside the crazy automatically dramatic responses flooding to my brain - can I just say that these people hate me. Like, hate in a generally wish me dead way and they are going to blame me for whatever happens so...if I get crucified - I’m fine with that but...if you could ...not...maim them too much...I might survive.” She offered a smile, “Partially.”

“I’m just going to enforce the Captain’s justice.” he replied neutrally. “That will be all.”

“Yes, Sir...” She turned again and moved towards the door and waited for it to close before her shoulder slumped, “Back to...yeah..”

Chris watched as Jacey left. He was furious, and while he appreciated her coming forward he wasn’t about to let those little shit’s slide. Finishing his scotch he tapped his combadge. “XO to Lt. Jackson.”

=/\=Jackson here.=/\= the Chief of Security replied.

“Lt. Jackson.” Chris began, taking a moment to plan out his next move. “Please arrange for a five man security detail to immediately take Ensign Miller into custody. Have him escorted to airlock 10 and held there until further notice”

There was a long pause Chris had expected from such an order. =/\= Come..again...sir...?=/\=

“You heard me correctly, LT. Is there going to be an issue?”

=/\=I guess we will see where this goes...but not yet sir. I’ll handle it personally. =/\=

“Very good.” Vaughn cut the signal. Then tapped his comm again, “XO to Cmdr. Rahner.”

The German accent was unmistakable. =/\=Ja, sir?=/\=

“Cmdr Rahner, I’ve just ordered security to take your Ensign Miller into custody for a violation of a standing order. I have had him escorted to an airlock. Please join me in my office at your convenience.”

the Life and Times of the Executive Officer....with a cameo by Miss Adams.
 * 09-16-2011, 12:35

Jacey Adams  Everybody,shake your body, lift your hands, stop frontin' you're just a puppet 

Jacey listened to the line and threw a pillow over herhead. puppet Yeah, that was about right. She felt as if her strings were being torn in different directions.Everything was a jumbled mess.

“Hey! Lazy…get…the door.” Apryl yelled from the shower.

She hadn’t even heard the door chime, then again her music was on rather loud, “Fine…” With a lazy roll she was off her bed, “Musicoff.” The doors opened and Jacey had to blink twice, “Are you…here for Apryl?”

Behold her stood a blue uniformed, broad shouldered,very handsome man with an evil glint in his eye.

“No,” His British accent was annoyingly cute, “I’m actually here for you, if you’re Ensign Adams.”

“I am Ensign Adams but you…aren’t really my type.Sorry.” Jacey looked back towards the shower, sure that Apryl had something to do with this.

“Your roommate hasn’t set you up.” He offered.

“Betazoid?” Jacey asked with a roll of her eyes.

“Very nosy one at that, I’m Counselor Chad Montgomery Wilson.“He offered a hand, “Pleased to meet you.”

Jacey eyed the hand, “Why is a Counsel-…Oh my god.” She let her head fall back as she rubbed her forehead, “My dad…my dad…”

“Yes, your dad…you sure are quick to catch on.” Chad offered a smile, “Take a walk with me.”

“Is it off a plank...” Jacey mumbled as she left her quarters to follow.

“Cynical. Your father said you had a way with words.”Chad offered a smile, “I’m not the enemy.”

“You’re close enough to it.” Jacey mumbled.

The walk was quiet for a few moments, passing fellow crewmembers and such.

“I’m sure you know why your dad contacted me.” Chadsaid, breaking the silence.

“He thinks I’m destructive.” Jacey said in a fatherly tone, “Apparently I need to get my act together.”

“You disagree?” Chad asked with a raised brow.

“Okay, so maybe I haven’t been the most popular but – I’m doing my job and I’m keeping my nose clean.” She shrugged, “He wants me to be like my mom, a social butterfly and little miss perfect.”

“You have something against being likeable?”

“No…” Jacey quickly added, “I have something about being predictable.”

“And you don’t think the whole ‘world hates me’ clichéd outlook on life isn’t predictable as well?” Chad laughed, “Seriously, you’re better off just trying to balance out your life.”

“Oh? And how do you think I’m going to do that?” Jacey asked with a shrug, “Make friends, and smile more…”

“Set attainable goals..” Chad countered, “Bring about small changes and you’ll see the bigger ones come into effect.”

“Changes?” Jacey stopped walking, “Is this is the part where you list off my faults and tell me how to fix them?”

“Do you want me to?” He simply asked.

“Not really…”

“Well then I’m going to give you a simple goal to set –make one new friend before our next meeting.” He brought up a smile, “And we’re meeting twice a week as of today. So you’ve got three days.”

“Don’t.. I get any say in this?” Jacey stammered.

“Miss Adams,” He lowered his voice, “You’re an introvert with an irrational fear of Engineering Chiefs that affects your simple ability to speak to anyone of a higher rank than you. No… you don’t get a say.”

“Is that all..” She gave a short laugh, “I hadn’t noticed…”

“Do you want me to get into this insane little prissy image you’ve created of yourself that has made you quite a few enemies?” Chada dded, “While in truth – you’ve got quite the idiotic crush on…”

Jacey glared, “Fine! I’ll see you in three days.”

“See, that wasn’t so hard.” He waved his hand, “Have a good sleep Miss Adams. I look forward to hearing your tales!”

http://i56.tinypic.com/fxt7pi.jpg
 * 09-18-2011, 11:46

Edward Pellew After a nice quiet time alone in his quarters, Aelan decided he should make himself acquainted with the layout of the ship. It wouldn’t do to have his beak burried in a PADD, trying to find his way on a map. I guess I should find some food, he thought after his growling stomach reminded him that he had yet to eat since arriving. He searched the location of the mess hall, stared at the map for a good 3 minutes to ensure he didn’t get lost, then set off to get some food.

Edward sat in the mess hall, he was exhausted. If it wasn’t one issue it was another. He was pulling his normal shifts in main ops and also doing extra shifts in the transporter rooms. he looked down at his cup.

“Ah, my old friend Java,” he said taking a sip. as he did so he read his manuals hoping that somewhere within them was the hidden key to unlock the trunk error that seemed to be Ops.

The mess hall was relatively empty due to the lack of crew on the Atlas. Normally, Aelan would have appreciated this and taken the opportunity to sit by himself. However, he decided it would be good to get to know someone other than his slightly mental roommates. He replicated an assortment of seeds, then took the closest available seat next to an gold collared crewman

Pellew was startled when a bird looking biped walked up and sat down. “Welcome aboard sir, take a seat. I dont think that we’ve been introduced, I am Crewman Edward Pellew from Portsmouth England you must be our new medical cadet.”

He stared at Edward awkwardly for a moment, then finally nodded. “I’m Cadet Aelan. It’s nice to meet you. What department are you in?”

Edward took a long sip from his mug. “Im in the OPS department, What brings you to us?”

“Hmm, that’s a long story,” the Skorr replied,”My ship decommissioned, I suppose you could say. I can’t say too much about it. What about you? How long have you been on the Atlas for?”

“Well sir, long story short..... I come from a long line of Starfleet admirals and naval heroes from England and what can I say Im in a rebellious stage. My father and grandfather have done all but have me transferred to Starfleet Academy. I am my brother’s partner in a Tobacco and Alcohol distribution enterprise. As far as the Atlas goes I came on during the last mission and here I am.”

“It’s sounds like you’re someone to be friends with, then,” Aelan replied, smiling in as much as he could.

“Sure, I guess. so a question that has been buggin me........ can you fly?’

“Ahh, I get that question a lot. Yes, I can. In fact, my roommate, Petty Officer Sorath, has already invited me to the holodeck to go.. erm.. hang gliding,” he responded, still not sure what that exactly was. “Would you care to join us?”

“Absolutely I loved to do that back home. Gliding in the sun off the cliffs of Dover, It was magical.”

“Of course.. Dover..” the Skorr replied, nodding, despite not knowing what Edward was on about. “Well, it was nice to meet you, Crewman. I need to go check in with the CMO,” he added, standing. He held out his hand to shake Edward’s.

Edward reached out and shook the Skorr’s hand. “It was a pleasure sir, and I look forward to the hang gliding.” Aelan nodded and left to find Commander Ulrika, still finding being called ‘sir’ a very odd phenomena.

JP with Edward and Aelan
 * 09-19-2011, 12:36

Gerhardt Rahner ''':::Main Engineering:::
 * USS Atlas, 1125 MST:::'''

Gerhardt hadn't left the pit for his entire shift. It just felt right being down in the middle of everything, working alongside other engineers and keeping a steady eye on the MSD, and his paperwork couldn't back up that much in a single shift.

"Alright, but do not let those variations shift more than 25 mHz, or we can go from a working experiment to a damn crisis in a hurry," he wrapped up his review. He had been aiding Ensign Taub with a possible change of the phase modulations in the tractor beam to increase efficiency. It looked like it was going to work, and Gerhardt was prepared to recommend the Bolian for a commendation if it became standard operating procedure.

"Aye, sir, I'll see that they don't," Taub responded before turning back to his work.

Gerhardt turned back to the MSD with a smile on his face. It wasn't a major change. Hell, it wasn't a difficult job, but the Bolian had asked for help and it made Gerhardt happy that he could. It was a good shift, he was enjoying his work, and nothing short of major systems failure could take away his smile. Not even Ayla marching towards him with a padd in hand and a sardonic gleam in her eye.

"Commander, I've got a report here you may need to look at," she said, not bothering to conceal the contempt she had towards the thing. She handed over the padd.

Gerhardt took a quick look of it and grimaced. "Why would someone try to hide power usage? Especially in such small allocations? I wonder if Commander Vaughn has seen this."

=/\=XO to Cmdr. Rahner.=/\= the comm cut in.

"Man vom Teufel spricht." He muttered with a grin. He turned his smile towards the MSD and tapped his commbadge. "Ja, sir?"

=/\=Cmdr Rahner, I’ve just ordered security to take your Ensign Miller into custody for a violation of a standing order. I have had him escorted to an airlock. Please join me in my office at your convenience.=/\=

For a moment, Gerhardt stood perfectly still, not even breathing, as the faint glow of the MSD gleamed on his frozen smile of gritting teeth and his slowly widening eyes. "Ja, sir," he answered mechanically, "I will be in your office immediately."

The comm closed and, after a short pause, Gerhardt bellowed, "Gottverdammt!" He turned on his heel and stormed onto the turbolift.

''':::XO's Office:::
 * 1127 MST:::'''

Gerhardt wasn't sure what to think or feel as he stepped through the XO's door, so he decided to dive into the situation without a plan.

"Lt Commander Rahner, reporting as order, sir," Gerhardt came to attention. "What is the situation?"

Chris smiled as Gerhardt entered his office, “I’m not going to beat around the bush, Ensign Miller rerouted power so he and few others could have a holo-deck party. The reason I am especially pissed is because just a few days ago I gave orders that any holo-deck activities needed to be curtailed until after repairs were complete. I gave these orders directly to Ensign Miller.” Chris stood, checking his watch. “Ensign Adams discovered the party was going on and broke it up then reported it to me.”

“For obvious reasons Ensign Adams doesn’t want them to know she reported it but I’m not going to let a fucking ensign think he can get away with trying to go behind my back. So here we are. Fortunately I’ve come up with a creative solution.”

"Well, that at least explains the odd report about strange allocations of power usage," Gerhardt fumed. "This solution of yours would be why Ensign Miller is sitting in an airlock, ja? If my conjectures on this power usage are correct, then Miller put our whole ship in jeopardy. I can think of no solution you may have involving him and an airlock that I would find disagreeable."

Chris offered a twitch of a smile in agreement. “Summary execution is –regrettably – forbidden as a disciplinary measure by Starfleet.”

He stepped around his desk and adjusted his uniform jacket and took a PADD with the JAG seal off his desk, “Ok, let’s go see our little ensign. When we get down there just follow my lead.” The German nodded.

''':::Airlock 10, Deck 7
 * USS Atlas:::'''

Airlock 10 was located at the forward tip of deck 7 – right at the nose of the saucer section, effectively the forward most part of the ship. Chris arrived with Gerhart in tow moving briskly to the center of the arranged security officers. There was an anticipated level of tension in the corridor next to the airlock. Ensign Miller looked terrified for obvious reasons. Lt. Lebowski gave the impression of a stern officer following orders of a superior but a shadow of uncertainty resided in his eyes as he waited to see where the confrontation would take them.

“Ensign Miller,” Vaughn began. “I trust you know why you’re here? I gave an order which you failed to follow and I warned you there is no ‘behind my back’ on this ship.”

“Sir, I…” the ensign began.

“Shut up.” Chris interrupted. “When Cmdr Rahner discovered your little stunt he, the Captain and I had a sit down powwow about your future in Starfleet.”

“Cmdr Rahner discovered…” Miller started to speak without thinking before silencing himself.

“My God how did you get a commission with such a low intellect? In engineering no less?”

“I apologize sir, I promise…”

Chris held up the JAG PADD, “You see this? It your courts-martial paperwork. The Captain wants you gone, I want you gone. Personally, I would actually be happier shoving you out of this airlock and writing a letter to you mommy and daddy telling them you have an unfortunate training accident. ”

Millers face was white with terror.

“The only reason you aren’t sucking vacuum or in the brig is because Cmdr Rahner here and Ensign Adams came to my office and begged for lenience for you. They say you’re a hard worker and you had more potential.” Chris turned toward Gerhardt, “Adams and this man came to bat for you – you owe them your career and as far as I’m concerned your life. From now on you live and die in their shadow. You get me?”

“Yes, sir!” Millers response was crisp. “Thank you sirs.”

“Don’t thank me.” Chris snapped. “If I ever have to see your face for something like this again you will be on the other side of the airlock and I’ll forget you ever existed.” Turning to leave Chris glanced over at Gerhardt, his back to the ensign and offered a wink. “You can take care of the post mortem.”

Gerhardt nodded to the XO as he passed and left the airlock. When he heard the doors slide shut, Gerhardt stepped to within a foot of Miller.

Lowering his voice so the security detail couldn't hear, Gerhardt hissed, "You do not truly believe that I give half a shit about you or your goddamn potential, do you? Let me make one thing very clear: an engineer keeps his ship running and a Starfleet officer does not make a mockery of the chain of command. Your actions put this ship, a vessel which has already fought through hellish odds, in danger, and you did so against direct orders from the man who answers only to the god of this little world we call a starship. Because I know for a fact that every man and woman who shipped out in my Engineering department was a qualified, intelligent member of Starfleet, I am left with two options: one, you are not a qualified, intelligent member of Starfleet who originally shipped out in my Engineering department but are in fact an imposter bent on sabatoge-"

He let the word drag out and hang, his German accent giving it a heinous twist on the end, before continuing, "or two, you were a qualified, intelligent member of Starfleet who shipped out in my Engineering department but have suffered severe head trauma and no longer fit that description. Until I discover which is the case, you. are. my. bitch."

Taking a step back, he said loud enough for all in the room to hear, "Ensign, a rank with which you will undoubtedly be burdened for many years to come and only retain now for lack of anything lower, you are hereby stripped of your security clearance, which is effective immediately reset to level 1. Any and all projects, teams, and crews to which you have been assigned will be relieved to be relieved of your presence and your absence therein will be filled by someone more competent, for instance if the Bussard collectors pull in a small cloud of methane. You will be reassigned a more fitting duty at the start of your next shift, until which time you will remain in your quarters."

Gerhardt nodded at Lt. Lebowski, who's security team led Miller away. It had been Gerhardt's first attempt at a major disciplinary action. The thought occurred to him that he may have been too harsh, but it was short-lived under the barrage of other thoughts about Miller's utterly incompetent actions.
 * 09-20-2011, 11:42

Adina Wolfe '''::USS Atlas::
 * Crew Quarters::'''

Adina was comfortable.

Her previous shift had been a slow moving hell of sorts, fixing conduit after conduit after conduit, none of the repairs dangerous to either her or ship, just boring, routine repairs... All over the ship. Now the young engineering Cadet was curled up in her bunk, almost in the foetal position, her pillows wrapped around and below her like a soft, down shield. Practically nothing bar a ship wide alert could get Adina out her bed now...

“Good Morning Atlas!” Came the incredibly loud voice of Rube, the hologram seemingly boosting herself through the rooms intercom. “It’s silly o’clock and I’m your host for this morning! Today’s schedule consists of yet more tedious work followed by no acknowledgement and very little praise with an after dinner mint of total exhaustion!”

“Rube, for the love of all that’s good and holy-” Her sleep addled mind wandered aimlessly for an appropriate insult, “-Sod off!” She finally managed, somewhat disappointed by it’s lack of flavour.

“You asked to be woken up, I woke you up.” Rube chuckled, appearing before the now awake Cadet. “Didn’t specify how.”

“Lunchtime, I’m replicating an alarm clock like all the other normal people.” Adina grumbled, literally rolling out of bed, hitting the ground with a audible thunk.

Rube chuckled as Adina picked herself up and stumbled off into the Sonic Shower, “Be grateful I let you sleep in...”

“You what?!” Adina shouted from the shower, quickly rushing out. “Computer! Time!”

“12:10pm.” The computers feminine voice replied neatly.

“Damnit Rube!” Adina almost screamed, rushing herself into a nearby uniform set out ready before vaulting out of the door. “I’m going to de-compile you when I get back!” -- '''::Main Engineering::
 * Five minutes Later::'''

“Morning,”Jacey said with a smirk, “Up late?”

Adina skidded to a halt, taking a moment to straighten up her uniform, her knee length skirt having ridden up slightly due to her long legged sprint. “Inefficient alarm clock.” she muttered, now straightening herself. Hopefully won’t happen again...”

“Coffee?” She offered the cup in hand, “I’ve only had one sip.”

“Thanks but no, can’t stand the stuff...I’ll be awake in a minute, just need to let the ol’ internal intermix get up to speed...”

Jacey looked down at her cup, “ I’d die without you.” She said quietly to the black liquid before looking back up, “I do hope your day gets better.”

“So do I, they’ve all started to blend together recently...” Adina sighed, already starting up a nearby console and checking for any new faults reported under her purview since she signed off last night.

Jacey moved over and leaned on a console, “Working too hard?”

“If you asked the rulebook they’d say I’m working ‘efficiently’.” Adina chuckled, sending a quick note to a crewman to check a fault on Deck 7, section 24. “Problem is with a skeleton crew efficient is a little too slow...”

“Efficient is...”Jacey shrugged, “Overrated.”

Adina smiled, “Perhaps, but I like a challenge...though a day off would be nice too...”

“So take a day off,” Jacey said with a grin.

“I think everyone wishes it was that easy.” Adina smirked, typing up a small reporrt for the ships engineering log. “Alas, reality isn’t so kind. I’ve got three more days yet...”

“Wanna take an early lunch?” Her eyebrows wiggled, “Since you’re late on shift I doubt you’ve eaten.”

“Lunch? I just got here.” Adina replied, her eyebrows raised in surprise. “The stuff I have to get done yet...”

“But it is lunch time, is it not?” She countered.

“For the folks who’ve been working the Alpha shift maybe.” Adina countered, “Beta has to wait till six..”

“But have you eaten breakfast, let alone lunch?” Jacey prodded.

“Not sure, either way I’ll survive till dinner.” Adina assured her, “I’ve done worse on McKinley Station...”

Jacey nodded, “Want me to bring you back something?”

Adina thought about it for a moment as she quickly filed away another report. “Sandwich?” She offered, “It’s under Adina 2-4.”

“There we go,” Jacey said with a wide grin, “A small bit of mutiny to help take the edge off of servitude.”

Adina chuckled, “Just don’t let the officers hear about it, I hear airlocks are popular these days with mutineers...”

She tilted her head slightly, “Airlocks?”

“Something I overheard going off shift. One of the night crew pissed off the XO, so he stuffed him in an airlock...”

“..M..Miller?” Jacey offered.

Adina shrugged, “Didn’t get a name...or I did and I was so tired it fell out my head. Why, reckon it was him?”

“I may...have had a conversation with the Xo regarding an issue with him. But an Airlock - “ She shook her head, “That’s a bit much isn’t it?”

“From our XO?” Adina chuckled, “Wouldn’t put it past him...”

Jacey blinked quietly for a moment, “I’m...going to go get your sandwich.”

“Okay.” Adina smiled as Jacey made a hasty retreat, “I’ll keep the core warm for you...” A JP with Jacey and Adina!
 * 09-20-2011, 19:44

Evan Stone Jacey, the Engineer, meets Evan, the Counselor ::Scotty’s:: ::1300hrs::

Having picked up Adina’s sandwich, which was a nice treat for the late running Engineer, Jacey dropped it off and returned for her own lunch. Her shift was almost over, which meant that the worst part of the day was upon her. Work gave her a purpose - after work however was empty time in which she normally sat on her own and pondered how miserable her life currently was.

“Hey Adams...” Rebecca Aubrey said quietly, “Got a moment?

She rolled her eyes, “Mhmmm.”

“So...what’d you do?” She continued to whisper.

“What’d I do when?” Jacey leaned over, “Why are whispering?”

“Because...”Rebecca stopped, “I don’t know. Her voice raised slightly, “So...”

“Damn it, Rebecca. Spit it out.” She growled.

“Are you related to Vaughn?” Her voice was low again, “Is he like your rich uncle?”

The comment, which given the real context of Jacey’s relationship to the XO, made her full out laugh, “Hell no!” She looked at Rebecca, “Where did you get that from?”

“You heard what happened to …” She looked about, “Miller...”

“The airlock?” Jacey offered with her head tilted, “What’s...that got to do with me?”

“Okay, this is on the real down low.” She paused, “Miller knows for a fact you hate him. He knows he doesn’t deserve your sympathy nor for you to ever stick up for him. But the XO said you did. He said that you went to bat for him.” She looked about, “So Miller is convinced you’re way up there. Hence why you’re such a priss.”

“Way..up there?” She raised her brow.

“Yeah, like you know how Vaughn is untouchable.” Rebecca grinned, “You’re like, starfleet royalty now on this ship.”

“You’re insane...on this ship.” Jacey patted her fellow crew mates shoulders, “Go work on Deck four’s dampeners.”

With an all too eager nod of her head Rebecca left, leaving Jacey to find her lunch in the crowded room. Scotty’s was popular and the ambiance was welcome, however the crowded nature was annoying. It was also dangerous as her elbow rammed into someones side.

“Oh god..”She covered her mouth, “I am so sorry.”

The sting in Cadet Evan Stone’s side and the instant apology that followed it didn’t come as too much of a surprise. The place, called Scotty’s was quite crowded and didn’t leave much room for breathing let alone maneuvering. Soon after arriving aboard the USS Atlas, Evan had gotten himself situated and left for the place of congregation. He decided that if he were best to serve those aboard the ship, he should spend some time getting to know them.

“Oh, no. Quite alright. This isn’t exactly the most roomy of places,” Evan replied cordially. The young woman was definitely not bad looking to him. He smiled at her and switched his drink to the other hand as he extended the other. “Cadet Evan Stone. Counselor’s Apprentice.” He smiled warmly to her as he awaited her hand in his.

“Another one...” Jacey said quietly as she shook his hand, “Did you purposely run into me? Is your boss seriously that twisted?”

Evan was instantly confused and his face showed it. His raised eyebrow raised and his mouth slightly agape, he tried to understand. “I’m sorry? My boss?” For a moment, Evan thought to himself and then realized that she must have been referring to Chad Montgomery Wilson, the Atlas’ Head Counselor. The two of them must have talked at some point and it seems from her demeanor and shortness that it had not gone too well.

“I’m afraid there’s been a misunderstanding. I haven’t even spoken with Wilson as of yet. I’m due at his office in about…” Evan looked down at his watch which was on the same wrist as his drink. “…An hour. Until then, I am not on the clock unless you need me to be.” Evan laughed a little and gave her his best smile in an attempt to help her be a bit more at ease.

Being a Ship’s Counselor, even an apprenticed one, could be a bit of a sore spot for many of the crew. When the crew found out his exact position aboard, they became a bit more defensive and watched what they said more carefully. That’s not who Evan wanted to be. He wanted to be part of the crew, a fighter, a shipmate, a cabin mate and just someone who they could go to in case they need to talk about things. Besides, what he really sought was to be a Diplomatic Officer. That would come in tow later on as he served aboard longer.

She flushed, “Sorry. I was cornered by your new boss yesterday. Literally.” Jacey looked about, “Are you...eating?”

Evan was intrigued by her remark, but if she had wanted to say more, she would have. Turning back to the table he had just stood from to refill his drink, he motioned for the young woman to sit. “I can eat if you would like to join me.” His free hand swept over the table to the chair opposite him. As he watched her move over to the chair, he began to take his own.

“I don’t believe I know your name or position, miss?”

She smiled, “That’s because I haven’t told you yet.” Taking the seat she ordered a grilled ham and cheese sandwich from a passing waiter.

From the same waiter, Evan ordered himself a chicken caesar salad. “Well, I could keep calling you miss, if you prefer. I promise, if I know your name, I’ll try not to wear it out.” He slowly smiled to her. “And if I do, I also promise that I will buy you a new one.” He gently laughed at the lame joke which he often liked to tell. For some reason, the corny or lame jokes that most people didn’t laugh at, Evan had a way of making them funny. Perhaps it was because it was coming from him.

A small laugh found its way out and she relaxed, “Miss would be a horrible thing to hear on a daily basis... Not that I’m going to have you around daily.” She stopped, “Jacey works much better.” She offered a proper handshake, “Ensign Jacey Adams - at your service.”

Evan took her hand and shook it firmly, but gently. “I’m afraid my services are ones which I hope do not need to be utilized on a daily basis. But, please know, my services are at your disposal whenever you should choose to need them.” He took a small sip from his Whiskey and continued. “My degree from Starfleet Academy is actually geared towards Diplomatic Relations.”

She tilted her head,”Diplomatic. There goes my argument that all men are unable to utilize tact.” Jacey took a bite of her grilled cheese after it was set down and smiled happily, “Simplistic beauty.”

Evan laughed at her jest. “Well, I think you will be happy to hear that all men have lapses in their ‘tactfullness’,” Evan said between laughs. After Jacey had taken a bite of her sandwich, Evan stabbed some of his salad with his fork and took a bite for himself. “And the salad isn’t too bad either.” Evan’s thoughts began to drift back to the remark that Jacey had made about her run in with Wilson the previous day. His interest had been sparked, but he knew he had to keep his business and pleasure separate – especially if he wanted to be the kind of counselor that the crew would like.

“So what’s your position aboard ship,” Evan asked to keep the conversation continuing.

“I an the one who makes sure that,” She pointed to his salad, “your food tastes like what it should instead of what it really is. As well as various other fun things that keep this place running. Technically I’m in charge of the structural department in Engineering.” Jacey paused, “Entirely off topic - did you know that when you, what I assume is contemplate something, your nose twitches slightly? Curious about something I did or said or something someone else did or said or....are you dreading sitting at this table?”

Evan was impressed at the young woman’s attention to detail. But then again, from what she said, attention to detail had to be important in her line of work. “Well, I must say,” Evan began after finishing his mouthful, “I feel more comfortable knowing that my food will taste better with someone like you in Engineering.” Evan smiled and laughed. “Yes, I did happen to know that. It’s the reason I don’t play poker anymore.”

He stabbed another mouthful of the salad. As he brought the fork back to his mouth, he said, “Did you know happen to know that your eyebrow tends to rise just the slightest bit at the corner of your face when you are feeling defensive?” He took the food off of his mouth and chewed slowly as he smiled at her.

Once he had finished another mouthful he continued. “Forgive me, no intention of changing the subject. Your remark about Wilson intrigued me is all. I am afraid that sometimes my curiosity tends to betray me through my facial expressions.

Jacey couldn’t help the grin, “Firstly, bravo on the eyebrow. It makes me feel slightly less...creepy knowing I’m not the only one who notices such things. Second, you aren’t on duty and you aren’t a diplomat yet so - conversation is free and I offered the comment regarding your boss. You’re free to query it. Is that you formally asking me or would you rather me not say?”

Evan’s smile never left his face. This girl could actually keep up in the conversation and was witty at that! “As we have only just met, I don’t feel that it is my place to pry or to ask about something that you are defensive about. However, you are more than welcome to inform me of whatever you’d like to.” Taking another hit from his glass of whiskey, Evan awaited the Ensigns response.

“My father is a pain in the ass,” She crossed her arms on the table, “He thinks that I need direction and I need to apparently...what was the words he used...” Her pointer finger lightly tapped her lips, “I think he said to get the stick out of my ass. So he contacted the ship’s counselor and had him hunt me down. I’m now supposed to see him twice a week, and ...figure myself out. He’s a piece of work your boss.”

Evan was appreciative of her frankness and honesty and showed it by placing his fork back to the plate and listening intently to her. Once she had finished, he thought for a few moments by staring into her eyes. “I see..” was all he began with. After a few more seconds of thought he began to speak freely.

“Well, I must say that it is no place of mine to offer you advice or guidance at this point in our,” he paused to search for the correct word, “acquaintance at this time. But in my opinion, being a part of Starfleet and as part of the engineering contingent, no less, you have chosen a path to follow – your own. That in itself is quite admirable and to me shows initiative. I can’t say what my opinion of a man is that I have not met – I mean Wilson, that is – but, I believe it is your privilege to choose who you wish to see as your counselor. That is your right unless ordered otherwise.”

Evan stabbed another mouthful of salad which was about halfway finished. “I suppose your father has some pull if he is to contact a ship’s Counselor; especially one that is on active deployment. Oh, and by the way, your mouth’s gentle twitch that follows your sarcasm is quite cute.” Evan said the last remark with a smile of his own.

Jacey full on blushed, “Thank you.” She really didn’t know what to say, “Uhm, I think.” Her mind refocused, “My dad...yeah. He’s a judge. A big ass of a Starfleet judge. My brother, now that’s where the pull comes in. He’s internal affairs. So...if you fear being around me, I’ll understand.” She smirked, “Most run.”

Evan listened and he swallowed another mouthful of the salad and took a sip of the whiskey. He nodded to reassure her of his listening to her. “My father never did quite like judges,” Evan laughed lightly to help her feel a bit more at ease. He could tell that speaking of her family – her father in particular – was not something she spoke of easily or without a twinge of resentment. “And, as for your brother being Internal Affairs, I think I will finish my salad before I run,” Evan said playfully.

He brought the whiskey glass back up and finished the contents. The girl was pleasant and playful, but there was pain and a wanting where her family was concerned. Evan could see it in her eyes. “Have you been aboard long?”

“Transferred recently. Although,” She stopped and checked the time,”I have to get back on shift. I am sorry but...” Jacey couldn’t believe the words about to come from her mouth, “If you were willing I’d love to continue our conversation later...” She winced,”Although I know you’ve yet to meet your boss and get to know your schedule and the crew and …” Jacey stopped, “and of course I don’t mean I’d love to. Of course like or would much rather see occurring sooner than later.”

Jacey’s stammering was unbelievably cute to Evan. He smiled as accommodatingly as possible for her to feel a bit less anxious in her speech. She was nervous and obviously, it came through. It didn’t take a skilled or seasoned Counselor to tell Jacey’s nervous stammer. Evan stood from the table, as was proper etiquette and he had been raised a gentleman. He wiped his mouth and hands with the napkin that was at his lap and smiled.

“Jacey, I’d love to continue our conversation another time. After all, I’ll be getting to know everyone aboard and since you’ll be in the Counselor’s Office twice a week anyways, I am sure we will have plenty of chances to see each other more and continue our conversation.”

Evan paused a moment as he took her hand into his and gently shook it. “And other conversations as well, I hope…” He smiled as they continued shaking hands.

“Well I hope so, I would hate to be the only topic on the table. I may feel slightly dissected.” She released his hand and smiled, “Just don’t use anything I say against me.” She backed away from the table, “I may need to show you a twitch you won’t like.”

Evan laughed heartily as they released their Jacey left the table. “Looking forward to it, Jacey.”

He watched as the crowd engulfed her and he lost sight of her. Something inside of Evan made him feel glad that she was one of the first people he had had a real conversation with while aboard ship. As he returned to his seat, he checked his watch. He had only about 20 minutes until he had to be in Wilson’s office for his first meeting with him. Evan was one for making good first impressions. Diplomats relied on good first impressions, and so would he. There was just enough time to finish his salad and get to Wilson’s office. And while he made the trip to the Counseling Center, he could think of Jacey and the future conversations they’d have.

 A JP brought to you by the lovely, Engineering Beauty, Jacey and Evan Stone!!!
 * 09-20-2011, 22:15

Evan Stone First Impressions in a Counselor's Mind... ::USS Atlas:: ::Scotty's::

Evan had made his way from Scotty's to the Counseling Center where he knew Wilson was waiting for him. During the trip up to the office, Evan had thought about his conversation with Jacey. It had been a pleasant one enough, but it had also been enlightening. It had given Evan a small glimpse into who Jacey was and where she was coming from. When it came to Counseling often times, a person's background proved to be a determining factor in a person's attitude.

As he passed Crewmen and navigated the decks with the PADD in his hand, his mind continued to work. Why was it that the Ship's Counselor was doing a Judge's bidding? Was it out of genuine concern for a member of the crew? Was it influence? Were they friends? The questions flooded his head like the breaking of a dam. Evan tried to push them to another part of his brain. For right now, those questions could wait to be answered - but, in time, he would make sure that they were answered.

::Counseling Center::

It didn't take him much longer to get to the Counseling Center. Upon arriving at the transparent windows of the Center, Evan used the reflection to make sure that his uniform was immaculate and that his appearence was presentable. Once he had made sure of that, he walked in front of the doors. The characteristic whoosh sound of the doors was once that Evan was quite used to aboard this ship now.

The inside of the Counseling Center was very office-like. A large, white, circular station sat in the center of the room. Pamphlet shelfs sat on either side of the Starfleet and Federation crests. Each of the pamphlets addresses various issues that could be helpful to the crewman aboard - from Mental Health to Physical Health. There was a young woman attending the desk and another enlisted man behind the station typing on one of the display monitors. There were sets of chairs along the transparent walls of the Counseling Center, no doubt for crewman to use while they awaited their appointments. In front of all the chairs was a long row of a display table which could play Counseling Videos to entertain or help the crewman who were waiting. To the left of the station, which was situated in the very center of the room, was a doorway with Wilson's name over the top of it. To the right, there was a doorway bearing an empty name display.

Evan walked up to the desk and to the young woman with almost white, blond hair on duty. "Hello, Attendent. I'm Cadet Evan Stone and I believe I have an appointment with Counselor Wilson." Evan was straight and to the point. If these would be the people he was going to work with, he wanted to make sure that they got that about him right away.

"Yes, Sir. Counselor Wilson is expecting you. Go right in," the woman said.

"Thank you very much, Crewman..." Evan said waiting for the young woman to fill in the space.

"Partcher. Janice Parcher. And the Attendent behind me is Lee Yao-Ling," Crewman Partcher spoke in a kind voice.

Evan looked over at Yao-Ling. "Sir," the man said while he nodded.

Evan looked back at Parrtcher and then to Yao-Ling and smiled at them both. "It' a pleasure to meet you both. I'd like to speak with you two after I get out of my meeting."

The two Attendents nodded to Evan and crisp, "Sir" in unison. Once more, Evan nodded and then turned around. He walked to the door and watched as it whooshed open before him, revealing Chad Montgomery Wilson seated behind his desk.

"Counselor Wilson, My name is Cadet Evan Stone and I believe you have been expecting me." Evan stood at sharp attention and stared straight ahead, waiting for Wilson to let him be at ease.

"Ah, yes. Cadet Stone. I have indeed been expecting you," Wilson said as he began to stand from his desk. His English accent was soothing and crisp at the same time - a helpful tool when trying to put his patients at ease, Evan thought to himself. As Wilson began to come from behind his desk, he spoke again. "Please be at ease, Cadet." Wilson came over to Evan and placed his hand on his shoulder. "Let's try to keep this meeting a bit less formal, shall we?"

Evan nodded and smiled slightly. "As you wish, Sir."

Wilson smiled and patted Evan on the shoulder. "Good. Please, take a seat."

Evan took a seat in front of his desk as Wilson moved back behind it. As he took his seat, he put on a pair of reading glasses and pulled up a PADD. "I've just been reviewing your file and I must say that it is certainly impressive." Evan felt himself puff up slightly, but quickly made sure that he regained his humble composure.

Wilson continued, "A degree in Astral Athropology from Starfleet Academy with Minors in Interspecies Ethics and Protocol." Wilson paused briefly before looking up at Evan and adding, "I will be sure to remember that when we have foreign dignataries and such aboard." Evan smiled while Wilson continued to read from the PADD. "High marks in your phsychology classes as well. That will be of great help to me." Wilson removed the glasses from his eyes and continued speaking. "I am curious as to why you decided to take this posting. Please, elaborate."

Evan stopped himself from thinking about how Wilson seemed to like the sound of his voice, in order to respond to the question. "Well, Sir, this is a newly commissioned ship. I believe that it presents an opportunity for adventure and for a good start to my future."

For a moment, Wilson thought to himself. "I see," was all that the man said in response. Evan watched as the man looked into his eyes, trying to read him. "And why is it that you are concerned with your future? What exactly is it that you'd like to do?"

Evan took a breath. He didn't appreciate the Counselor trying to treat him as a patient rather than a fellow colleague with the same goals and interests in mind. But, then again, they're outlooks on their service to the crew was probably quite different. "Well, Sir. I would like to be a Diplomatic Officer in Starfleet and continue a career in Diplomacy, particularly with Interspecies Relations."

Once again, Wilson looked thoughtful and it showed in his eyes. "Well, I hope that you do not treat this post as some sort of stepping stone on your way to your ultimate goal of being a Starfleet Diplomatic Officer." Evan instantly felt defensive, but he knew better than to show it. He was not going to be bated by the Counselor into being accused of immaturity. Before Evan could answer, Wilson continued. "The work we do here, in this Counseling Center, is very important for the well-being of this crew. I would hate for that to be neglected by a young Cadet who is interested in being a Diplomatic Officer in his future."

There was disbelief and shock running through Evan's brain at the moment. Was this man who did not even know him already assuming that he would shirk his duty or treat his current posting as less than what it should be? It was a surreal feeling. But, again, Evan was not going to let the Counselor bait him.

"I can assure you, Counselor Wilson, the crews well-being is every bit as important to me as it is to you. My duty is to the crew above all else before myself. I take their well-being to be a personal responsibility of my own. I am here to help," Evan said with a fixed look. He made sure that he came across sincerely, professionally and firmly. He meant every word of what he said, and it came across that way.

Wilson looked once more into Evan's eyes before he began to smile and stand. "Splendid," said Wilson extending his hand out to Evan. Evan took the man's hand and smiled. "I am very much looking forward to your Apprenticeship aboard the Atlas." The two men kept their handshake as Wilson moved them toward his door. "I'll have Crewman Partcher send you all of the crew's initial psychological evaluations and all the notes on the sessions I have had thus far." Once again, Wilson's hand moved onto Evan's shoulder. Evan smiled and nodded.

"Thank you very much, Sir. I'll spend the next few days reading over those and getting acquainted with everything. When would you like me to start taking on appointments," Evan asked.

"As soon as you'd like, Stone. Just let me know which personnel you would like to attend to, and I will pass them your way. As you know, we have a skeleton crew, but it will grow and so will the workload. Your presence should be very helpful. Once a week we will have a meeting to discuss any and all appointments and go over the patients' files." The two men spoke in front of the door with their hands finally releasing.

"Very well, Sir," Evan said as the door opened. As he stepped through the door, Evan stopped and turned around. "Actually, Sir," Evan said remembering, "there is one patient I would like to have put on my docs."

Wilson smiled broadly. "Making good with the Crew already, Cadet? Very good! Excellent, Excellent! I know now that your words were genuine. Whom is it?"

Evan took a leap and hoped it wouldn't be short of landfall. "Ensign Jacey Adams in the Engineering Department."

Instantly, Wilson's facial expression changed completely. The smile left his face and was replaced with a frown. "I am afraid that is quite out of the question, Cadet Stone." Evan looked confused and opened his mouth to speak but was cut off by Wilson. "Ensign Adams is a special case and I am afraid I cannot trust it to the hands of an Apprentice. I apologize, but this is not open to discussion."

Evan was disappointed, but this was not the time to express it. While he nodded his understanding, inside, Evan knew that he would definitely be pursuing her case. The questions he asked himself on the way to the center were going to be answered eventually. "Aye, Sir," was all Evan asnwered.

The door to Wilson's office whooshed open and Evan stepped through it, closely followed by Wilson. they walked side by side to the Reception Station and Crewman Partcher perked up.

"Crewman Partcher," Wilson began in a tone that was more that of a co-worker than of Starfleet Officer to Crewman, "please send all of the psychological evaluations and all session notes thus far to Cadet Stone."

"Right away, Sir," Partcher said with a pitchy tone. She began to eagerly go about her work.

Evan turned to Wilson and the two of them shook hands once again. "Well, thank you for the meeting, Sir. I will be in tomorrow to begin going over the dossiers and hopefully accepting patients."

Wilson once more smiled and nodded before returning back to his office. Evan then briefly spoke with the two Attendents about their work in the center and how Evan would be able to utilize their skills to help him with his own work. It seemed that things would begin in earnest and Evan was eagerly expectant. But as eager and excited as he was, there were still the questions of Jacey and Wilson. As Evan made his way back to his quarters, the questions all came flooding back. Not only the questions, but Jacey's face also accompanied them...
 * 09-20-2011, 23:51

Christopher Vaughn ''':::XO’s Office:::
 * USS Atlas, Deck 2:::'''

Chris hadn’t been in his office for more than fifteen minutes before the door chime sounded. He slid the stack of PADDs he had been working on to the side, “Enter.”

Lt. Jackson Lebowski entered, “Afternoon, sir.”

Chris gestured to one of the chairs across from his desk. The security chief moved with a sense of confidence, yet casual professionalism. Chris found he actually liked working with Lebowski. The chief was laid back when junior officers weren’t around and all business when they were. “What can I do for you?” Chris said withdrawing a cigar from his humidor, “Cigar, chief?”

Jackson started to shake his head but reconsidered, “You get actual Cuban’s right?” Chris nodded. “Well if you’re going to order me to I guess I’ll have one.”

“It’s an order.” Chris replied seriously tossing him one of the cigars. “So what's the score?”

Both men cut the fine tobacco and lit them before getting comfortable in their respective chairs. “Permission to speak freely?” Lebowski asked.

“Sure,” Chris chuckled. “Until you say something I don’t like.”

Jackson offered a smile, “I don’t mind a good disciplinary show of force as much as the next security grunt – I just wish I had some notice. I was worried with your reputation maybe I was going to be forced between mutiny or murder.”

“Nonsense.” Chris inhaled deeply and exhaled a few smoke rings. “Everyone there had a terrified look on their face. No one knew what I was going to do, not even me. It added to the moment.” He gave the chief a wink.

Jackson watched the smoke for a few moments longer as he tried to judge his XO’s mood before asking his next question, “You seem like the kind of guy who has been known to have a few parties yourself. I was a little surprised.”

“I don’t give a shit about a party.” Chris growled. “But what pisses me off is I ordered that little bastard not to do exactly what he did. And what pisses me off even more than that is that he got himself caught.” Chris offered a lopsided grin, “I have broken plenty of regs in my time in, and God willing I’ll get to keep doing it. But it’s always under the radar. If I ever get caught doing something I’m not suppose to…well…I expect someone to drop the hammer on me. And I’ll either fight it and get off or I won’t. But if caught I expect the trouble. I’m not going to be surprised by it.”

Lebowski let out a slight laugh. “Well, that’s a direct answer.” Chris gave only a shrug. “Did the captain really want to court-martial him?”

“Oh, the PADD just had a photo of the JAG insignia downloaded on it. I didn’t have the time or energy to try and muster a court-martial. But if Miller fucks up again that will be a different story.”

“Definitely an interesting approach.” Lebowski said recalling some of his previous commanders and executive officers.

“Enough about me, you’re like what…” Chris eyed the security chief critically for a moment. “Early forties? What the hell are you doing being just an LT?”

Lebowski shrugged. “Nothing much too it. I was a cop when I was younger, decided I wanted to be a hard charger and enlisted in the marines. Mustered out of service after the Dominion War and was a PI for a few years. Civilian life almost killed me so I tried to go back in the Corp. They said I was too old so I applied to Starfleet for an officer’s billet. And here we are.”

“What were you in the Corps?” Chris could see the tale-tail signs on a marine on the man now.

“I was a Infantry. They say all marines are infantry but I was really infantry.” Jackson pulled back his sleeve to show the large Corps tattoo on his bicep. “When I got out I was a Gunny.”

“Well, I’ll be damned.” Chris said checking his watch, “Well, I’m going to have to cut it short, department meeting in ten evidently there is an issue with the ship plans being off by a deck.”

“Off by a deck?” Lebowski arched and eyebrow.

Chris shrugged. “Go figure.”

 featuring the Chief of Security - Jackson Lebowski
 * 09-21-2011, 23:50

Aelan After leaving the mess hall, Aelan had called up directions to sickbay to hopefully find Commander Ulrika and start his duties. Walking quickly with his head down, he didn’t see the young engineering ensign walking his way until he had run into her. She toppled to the ground, and he just started at her for a moment, unsure how to react.

“I’m seeing a giant bird...”Jacey muttered, “I’m going crazy. I’m really loosing it.”

“Uhhm.. sorry.. I didn’t see you there,” he said quietly, reaching out a hand to help her up.

“And it talks. It’s a talking bird...” She covered her eyes, “You aren’t real..”

Aelan sighed slightly. He was used to odd reactions from people, but this was a bit more than normal. “Actually, I am.. I’m a medical cadet that just got reassigned here. My name’s Aelan,” he responded, trying to calm the young lady.

“You’re real?” She said quietly as her hand reached out to gently touch Aelan’s wing, “Wow... “

“Yup.. what’s your name?” he asked.

“Jacey,” She stood up, “Jacey Adams. Engineering.” She stopped and moved closer to him, “Your feathers are so shiny. How do you get them to do that?”

“Uhhm.. I don’t know. It’s just natural, I guess?” he responded, unsure what to say.

“Am I making you nervous?” She backed off.

“I.. I’m just not very good with people,” he said after a silence. “Although I’m getting better. Trying to make new friends since being here,”

“Friends,”Jacey thought back to her conversation with the Counselor, “Yeah, I know that feeling. I guess being a large...bird, no offense, has a way with people.”

“Well, it’s a conversation starter, for sure. I’ve never had quite the reaction you gave me,” Aelan replied. “I should get going, though. I need to check in with the CMO, so I’m on my way to sickbay. You can join me, if you like,” he looked at her cautiously, unsure if that was acceptable.

“Honestly, I think I owe you a conversation given my insane reaction.” She motioned for him to walk, “I really am sorry about that. I’m having one of those days.” A small laugh erupted, “Although I am glad you’re not a hallucination.”

“And I’m glad I didn’t injure you. That would be a very bad first impression, especially for a medical cadet,” he did his best attempt to smile. He had learned to mimic human facial expressions as they tended to help others feel more at ease with him. Or so the counsellor at the academy had suggested.

“I...”She nodded, “I’m not really good at the first impression thing so, not to worry. I tend to put my foot in my mouth within five seconds.” She stopped, “A record was one I think.”

He laughed slightly at the comment. “Glad to hear I’m not the only one. How long have you been on the Atlas for, Ms. Adams?”

“Not long, I’m a transfer. Still finding my feet it seems,”Jacey sighed,”Or more loosing my footing more than ever. Whoever thought that work in space was easier than on earth, seriously needs their head examined.”

“I agree. Sometimes I wonder why I ever left home.. It gets lonely out in space. Although I guess I’ve made two friends today. Assuming we’re friends now,” he said cautiously.

Jacey grinned, “If you don’t mind me quoting you on that, I can guarantee you that we are.” She laughed lightly, “I know why I left home though,my family is insane. I swear to God I would kill my brother if we lived on the same planet.”

The Skorr looked over at her, clearly startled by her comment.

“What??”Jacey asked, “Did I say something?”

“You would kill your own brother?? That’s terrible!” Aelan replied in a horrified voice.

“If you knew my brother, you’d probably wanna kill him too.” She laughed.

Aelan shook his head in disbelief, then noticed that they were in front of sickbay. “That was quick,” he murmered

“It’s a short deck,” She offered a smile, “If you’re free sometime, we should hang out. I promise I’ll leave my psycho tendencies at home.”

“That sounds fun. Actually, I’m going hang gliding in the holodeck with my roommate Petty Officer Sorath and Crewman Pellew, if you would like to join us. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind,”

“Pellew?” Her brow raised “Hang gliding. Oh god I would pay to see that.” She laughed, “Yeah, I’m in.”

“Umm.. What exactly is hang gliding?” he asked timidly.

“Leaping off a giant cliff with a fake pair of wings.” Jace replied with a grin, “Fun eh.”

“That explains things..” Aelan said thoughtfully. “Yeah, I guess it sounds fun. Anyways, I should really check in for duty. But it was nice to meet you, Jacey. And I’m glad to have another familiar face on board.”

“Believe me, I owe you.” She waved goodbye, happily mumbling some words regarding the counselor’s ultimatum and her winning.

He waved back, then took a deep breath and walked into sick bay, unsure of what was to come.

--- A joint post with Jacey Adams. Turns out she IS as crazy as she seems :thumbsup:
 * 09-25-2011, 20:48

Tom O'Flagherty Security Office

Lt. Lebowski was sitting at his desk, jacket unzipped, and feet on his desk, trying to shuffle the duty roster. This lovable activity seemed to take most of his shift everyday. He wanted to make sure that every person in his department got the requisite amount of training, as per the new stipulations from the Captain, and to get enough rest so they wouldn’t be completely overworked. On another padd, he had a new proposal for the senior staff that would lockdown areas of the ship that were not being used so they could save the manpower. The Patrol Division was having to cover so much ground, and though, relationally speaking, every department was shorthanded so it wasn’t as if anyone was having to do extra work, technically speaking, but it was difficult to give people downtime.

His reverie was interrupted by the sounding of his door chime. “Enter.”

Tom walked in with a slightly pensive look on his face. The week had been long, and sitting on the Bridge was beginning to drive him slightly batty. “Lieutenant,” he said as me moved in front of Lebowski’s desk.

Jackson almost fell over in the chair as he tried to get to attention. “Sir! I’m surprised to see you down here.”

“You mean I can surprise you, but Mr. Vaughn can’t? I’ll take that as a compliment,” Tom said with a smirk. “Lieutenant, consider this a review. Not formal of course, but I did want to get a good look at your department. Would you mind if I ran the simulations with your people?”

“No...not at all, sir.” Jackson Lebowski was quite literally taken aback. It wasn’t normal for the CO to join in battle simulations. “They are assembling in the armory right now, if you are ready, sir.”

“After you.” Tom let the lieutenant lead the way as they left his office. His nerves started to build as he entered the room and saw the security officers snap to attention.

“Captain on deck!” Lebowski barked into the gathering. “You all know today’s simulations, but there will be a twist. Today, Captain O’Flagherty will be leading one of the teams.” No one in the room moved from attention. It was rather quiet while Legowski waited for some response. “Sir, the room is yours.”

Tom looked out over the people in the room. “At ease. Now, where does a fella go to get some gear around here?”

Apparently everyone in the room was just as surprised as Katie was when the Captain walked trough the door. They were all staring at him. Katie stepped forward and said “ This way, sir” and walked towards the lockers.

Tom followed the young cadet toward the lockers. Inside was everything one person needed to take a small compound. Rifles, carbines, Mk. 23 pistols, and power cells lined the walls. He took a carbine, pistol, and power cells for the weapons; strapped on a tactical holster for the pistol and turned back to the young woman. “What’s your name, cadet? I don’t believe I’ve met you.”

“Uhm, Banninga, sir, Cadet Banninga.” Katie said a bit nervous.

"Well, cadet," Tom said with a gentle smile. "This will be a fun little simulation. I used to run my security departments through it." She seemed to relax a little as they finished strapping down their gear. Takong, the Sentry Division head, briefed the team on the mission. It would be a boarding repulsion simulation against a Xul boarding party.

Tom took a small team of four, Cadet Banninga, Chief Kron, and Petty Officer Blod, and went to their starting position, which was to be the Bridge. "I've had a little experience with the Xul. Speed and accuracy are more important than strength. They move and fight like a club. There is no subtlety to their movements, and no hesitation in their actions. You have to keep your head on straight at all times."

As soon as they arrived on the bridge Katie walked to the Tactical station to run a active scan of the vicinity. “Sir, Long range sensors detect a Xul Cruiser on a intercept course.

"Red Alert! On screen." Instantly, the simulation began. Holographic representations of the crew took form. Everyone carrying weapons, as if on a combat cruise.

The Xul ship was on a direct intercept course, no wavering of it's heading, and all it's weapons bristling. Without warning it fired a volley into the starboard shields. Tom ordered for a return volley of phasers and quantum torpedoes. It took twenty seconds for the bridge to be in flames and the intruder alert to sound. Instantly, the blast doors to the bridge sealed, but explosions and small arms fire could be heard in the corridor beyond. "Commander Vaughn, you have the Bridge. Team form on me."

He took point before they manually opened the door. Beyond was smoke, debris, and the bodies of both sentries who normally guarded the bridge. Tom raised his rifle as he entered the corridor and the doors resealed behind them. "Spread out. Cover all the angles. We need to move toward Engineering and secure that area."

As they were moving down the corridor Katie got a headache from all the smoke. Great she thought. She couldn’t see the Xul who attacked the sentries. They probably went to another part of the ship when they saw that the bridge was locked. When they reached the turbolift it didn’t open automatically. Katie tried to manually override the turbolift. Luckily the door opened. “Yes” she said. “At least we don’t have to crawl through those Jefferies tubes.”

Heavy footfalls reverberated through the corridor, heading in their direction. Tom new that sound, and immediately turned. “Get in the lift, now!” As everyone entered, he backed in with his carbine trained toward the sound. “Computer, hold door.” The confirmation beep from the computer signaled the door was locked open.

As the sound continued to approach, Tom changed the setting on his rifle and started the target scanners on their cycle. The system was loaded with upgraded software to detect the phase changes in the armor of the Xul’s elite warriors. “Keep your weapons trained. Make accurate shots. We have to clear this corridor before we can move on.”

Everyone held their collective breath as the thundering steps became louder with each second. Tom could sense the tension mounting, and flexed his fingers to make sure they stayed loose and light on the weapon. The steps continued to thunder through the corridors, it was almost as if the walls were beginning to vibrate from the repeated concussions when suddenly, three hulking Vutekh, their rhinoceros-like horns looking as vicious as Tom remembered, walked directly in front of the open lift doors. Without giving a verbal order, or waiting on someone else to make the move, Tom fired directly at the leader’s head.

Following the Captain’s example Katie immediately stepped next to him and started firing at the other creatures. The leader fell quickly under the barrage of phaser fire, but the other two turned. On the left, Katie’s shot hit center mass, dropping it to one knee before she cut it down with a second shot. Chief Kron and PO Blod took the last warrior down with their combined firepower.

“Computer, Deck 11.” The turbolift doors whooshed shut before the left started to descend quickly towards the lower decks. Tom turned to face the team he had with him. “We have to go approximately 40 meters before we get to Main Engineering. There’s no telling what we will run into between here and there, assume internal sensors are down. When we reach the door, we will enter and clear. Any questions?”

There were no responses from his dedicated group. They looked to be rather focused, and Tom was quite impressed by that. When the doors opened onto Deck Eleven, they moved out with the Captain on point. The muzzle of his rifle led the way down the corridor until the reached the door, which was locked. Cadet Banninga and Chief Kron crossed to the other side will Tom and the Bolian Blod crouched next to the command panel. Tom entered the override code, and the doors flew open.

Engineering was completely clear. If the Red Alert light wasn’t flashing you wouldn’t know the ship was in trouble. After they checked Engineering Katie started on getting internal sensor’s back online, while the others tryed to get communications with the bridge.

“I have internal sensor’s back online, I’m running a internal scan” Katie shouted above the alarm sound. “Sir, according to the scan there aren’t any Xul on board, at least not alive. I’ll run another scan to be sure” The second scan also didn’t find any Xul on board.

Tom searched the room visually, even though he had heard the Cadet’s report. He moved towards the warp core and to the right with Chief Kron, the Saurian, right behind him. As they neared the access hatch towards the Jefferies Tube network, an Etlu started to shimmer and apprear before them. Both Starfleet officers fired as their weapons beeped when they locked onto the phase signature of the elite Xul warrior.

Once the armor finished clattering to the floor, the holodeck shimmered back tot the familiar grid pattern, and Tom shouldered his weapon while turning to the rest of the team. “Alright, nice work team, but you need to always keep your eyes open. Let’s strip out of this gear, and get out of here.”

A JP with Katie Banninga
 * 09-25-2011, 23:14

Jacey Adams --Deck 8 --

“Okay...”She said quietly to herself as she walked down the coridor towards her quarters, “Shift done, check...random lunch with a very handsome counselor, check....met a giant bird, check...” She brought up a smile, “Most awesome day...mhmm”

Truth was, Jacey hadn’t had this much fun in months. She’d spent so much time dwelling on the lack of social status that she’d completely missed out on the fact she was surrounded by hundreds of people - each a little more interesting than the other.

“Well I’ll be...”She said quietly. Her CO, a man whom Jacey thought quite a lot of, was coming out of the Security office. Her last encounter with him, before his transfer, had been a rather humbling one. She’d acted out of character and had been rightly called up on it. Jacey smiled and nodded her head lightly, “Sir.”

Tom stopped when he saw the familiar face. “Cadet...I mean Enisgn Adams. It’s good to see you.” Since they had left drydock, Tom had spent so much time either in meetings or with his head buried in reports that he had failed to make his way through the ship and see all of the people who had come aboard. He remembered seeing her name on the crew list, but everything seemed to have been conspiring against him being able to get through the ship to meet the crew. But it seemed today was a good day, besides the impending doom of the Epsilon Indi system. “How are you, Ensign? How’s the chief treating you?”

“He’s …”She fought for the right word, “Amazing! He can be a little serious and the fact that he’s the size of a house means you don’t want to really mess with him but I think he’s really a kitten. A big muscly non-hairy kitten. As for me, I’m good. Slowly making this place home. How about you? Surviving your job as CO?” Jacey stopped, “Am I being to casual? Sir?”

Tom chuckled lightly at her explosion of praise. It seemed some things did change over time. “No, it’s fine, Ensign. I prefer it to be a little on the casual side. As for surviving, well...let’s just say I’m not going to let it kill me.” Tom started to turn towards the turbolift back to the bridge and motioned for Jacey to join him. “So, why did you transfer to the Atlas? I thought you were very happy on the Emissary?”

Jacey followed, “Honestly, Sir.” She clasped her hands behind her back, “I was happy but it wasn’t the same after certain parties left. The dynamic was rather confused and so, after a little bit of- okay a lot - of deliberation, I thought I’d follow what seemed to fit best.”

“Well, I’m sure Commander Hann is sorry to see you go. I know it must have been hard loosing Captain Luku like that. Part of me wishes I could have been there. Maybe things would have turned out differently if I had.” They fell silent for a bit as both pondered the loss of their former CO. Tom hadn’t really thought that much about it, which in turn made him feel slightly dejected with himself. “I shouldn’t bring up such negative things. Anyway, have you found a place for yourself here? I hope it’s not one that puts you too close to Commander Vaughn. I mean, he’s been a great friend to me, but he is an acquired taste.”

Jacey’s face flushed, “No, he and I haven’t had that many encounters since boarding. He’s a very busy man and apparently a rather tough XO. Or so I’ve heard.”

Ignoring the change in Jacey’s color, Tom smiled broadly. “Yeah, I read that report. It does mention your name, if I’m not mistaken. Becoming somewhat of a momma bear down in engineering?”

She lightly rubbed her forehead, “I...well you see...” She let her hand drop and shrugged, “I have a beautiful way of finding trouble. It’s like, the present you don’t want under the tree and yet you know you’re going to have to smile and simply accept it. I’ve been here a very short time and ….well...”She brought back a smile and laughed, “Just don’t boot me out an airlock.”

“Never! That’s the XO’s method...I shoot people out torpedo tubes.” Tom looked down and winked as he kidded the young woman. It seemed a lot had changed since that rather unfortunate dressing-down in his office aboard the Emissary all those months ago. She seemed rather a bit more confident and comfortable, but still discovering herself, which Tom liked. “So, off-duty? I bet you’re heading to Scotty’s. I hear the place stays rather crowded, which is amazing since we have such a small crew.”

“The crew’s working so hard, they’re all eager to group together and get a laugh in when they can. It eases the tension and makes everything bearable.” She looked back, “Actually my quarters are on this deck, I was heading there but that process has been halted.” Jacey returned her hands behind her back, “Although it is a welcome distraction. Having a Captain who’s bearable is a plus.” She stopped, “Have you married that Doctor yet?”

Now, it was Tom’s turn to blush. “No, not yet. We got engaged right after we left the Emissary, and have been in planning mode for the wedding. At least, she and my mother have. I’m afraid I haven’t been as invested in planning my wedding as she has.”

“Congratulations!”She resisted the urge to pat his arm or shake his hand. There was even the urge to bear hug him to show her excitement at the upcoming nuptials. Jacey inwardly took a step back in shock. Normally, she abstained from hugging or touching anyone on a general basis. She was really in a good mood, “I’m sure she’s going to do an amazing job, or they-as your mother’s involved, and in the end all you’ll have to do is show up - preferably dressed properly and say those lovely words every girl secretly dreams of hearing.”

“Well, don’t get to hasty. Remember, Lisbet is from Betazed. There may not be those clothes you so wisely advised me to wear.” Tom waited for her eyes to fully bug out in alarm before smiling, as he could no longer hold it in. “I’m kidding. We are having the wedding on Earth,...sometime. It will be a traditional Irish fair, or so I’m told.”

“It’s going to be lovely,” She said with a relieved grin, “Forgive my startled look but - could you imagine Vaughn surrounded by naked people? The thought just...” She shook her head, “No. Don’t want that thought anywhere...no..no.”

Tom frowned more than a little. “It’s not that hard to imagine. I’ve known him a lot longer than you have, and had to pull him out of some shore leave shenanigans. Believe me when I tell you, whatever you’re thinking, it isn’t nearly as bad as the actual event.”

Jacey put up her hand, “No..no sir.” She really didn’t like the look when he frowned, “I wasn’t saying anything like that. It wasn’t negative it was - comical the thoughts going through my mind. With his reputation with women I meant...he’d enjoy himself a little too much...”She stopped and lowered her head slightly, “I am sorry sir. I really didn’t mean anything by it.”

“No!” Tom felt stricken, he wasn’t trying to upset the young Ensign, and now felt bad that he had been misunderstood. “I mean, if Chris were anywhere nude, he would turn it into the most ridiculous thing you’d ever seen. He’d probably try to sleep with every female there, which would most likely cause some hilarious mayhem.”

“That’s about the lines I was thinking Sir,” She offered a small grin,”Although, it’s not really something I’d like to see.” A small chuckle bubbled out, “Again, I apologize for it coming out wrong. I guess I still haven’t gotten the hang of my tongue just yet.”

“It’s OK. That’s just something that comes with practice.” Tom took about three more steps before he realized what he had said. “Crap. I wasn’t trying to imply anything by that...” He stopped trying to backpedal and just hung his head. “I’ve been spending too much time with our esteemed Mr. Vaughn.”

A full laugh came out, “Relax Sir, seriously. I honestly hadn’t thought anything of the comment - especially since I’m talking with you.”

“Well, as long as that’s settled.” Tom stopped as they approached the turbolift. “I didn’t mean to drag you so far from your quarters. If you’ll excuse me, I need to get to the bridge. It was really good to see you, Ensign. If you need anything, let me know.”

“Sir..” She held up a hand to pause him leaving, “I never got to thank you for what you did on the Emissary. I mean, just putting up with me in general but also for ...being rather understanding regarding.” Jacey shrugged, “Well anyways, it means a lot and I’m really glad to serve under you. It’s an honour.”

Backing up slowly she looked behind then back, “Now that I’m done being disgustingly sentimental, I’ll let you get back to work. And I will come see you if I need anything but - don’t let it be so long till our next random passing. You’re fun - for an old guy.”

Tom narrowed his eyes at the young ensign, "You're fun too...for a child." Then, Tom let the door close before the lift took him to the Bridge. "I guess that rebellious streak never goes away."

--- A Jp with our epic Captain!
 * 09-26-2011, 00:52

Evan Stone Jacey straightened her shoulders, addressed her pony tail and entered the Counselling area. It was, in truth, the last place she wanted to be. After returning to her quarters, following her shift, her father had contacted her. Not the ideal thing before bed but she accepted it non the less. Oddly, her conversation with her father, which was always a dreaded event, had left her even more upset than usual. She knew that he was perhaps justified to worry about her, that’s what parents did. Yet Jacey was an adult and - as messed up as she currently felt- she could handle it.

Or so she thought. Perhaps she was wrong. It wouldn’t be the first time. Her dad’s words, although they almost always had a stinging tone, seemed to stab a little deeper this time. Her mother had tried to cut in, as she always did before her Dad let something slip, but had failed. Her father’s comment rang in her mind.

I’m paying for you to be taken care of, you damn well better listen.

Jacey was sure that counselling wasn’t charged to the family or the person receiving it. But her dad was pretty adamant. Jacey knew how much he guarded his finances, so for him to use it like that meant that he wasn’t happy about it. She smiled at the receptionist who told her to take a seat. Her eyes drifted to the other door, possibly Stone’s office. She felt a brief smile touch her lips. He’d definitely made an impression, but then again most good looking men knew how to do that.

The new thing in all this was that his looks weren’t the thing that stuck out most in her mind. Nope. Funnily enough it was the fact he’d payed attention to her quirks. Although she guessed that’s what he was trained to do, so she brushed the thought aside.

Evan Stone had sat in his office for the past few hours, still going over the mountain of files that Counselor Wilson had given him. He was careful to go over each and every file with meticulous detail - probably why itwas taking so long for him to accomplish the task. Each name that he read he committed to memory. These people soon wouldn’t be mere names and psychological work-ups. He hoped he could really get to know each and every person.Thankfully, the ship was still hosting just a skeleton crew, which would make his process easier.

Not many people had already had meetings with Counselor Wilson. As the Atlas had only been underway a short time, this did not surprise Evan atall. But something had jumped at Evan when he closed the file he had just finished reading and had opened the new one titled: “Cadet Jacey Adams.” A small smile found its way across Evan’s face as he thought of their brief dinner the other night at dinner. Evan was eager to get to reading over her file.

The first thing he did was read over her Psychological Profile ascompiled by Counselor Wilson. As was regulations, each and every crewmember would have to sit down with a Counselor and wade through question after question. The Counselor would then compile a Psychological Profile based on the answers to these questions provided by the crewmember. These Profiles were mandatory to everyone aboard and would give the Counselors a framework of reference for them to go to during meetings or if other needs arose.

Evan read over her Profile carefully, and with great attention.Everything in it seemed to confirm what Evan had already noticed in her – the nervous stammer, the tendency of soreness when speaking of family. Though he had the Profile, he wanted to know more of this girl. Coming to the end of the Profile, where the counselor’s opinion and diagnosis of the patient would be,Wilson had some interesting, and somewhat sketchy things to say.

“An obvious problem with any sort of authority figure in her life;characterized by rebellious behavior, outspoken anger, violent tendencies and planned subterfuge.” There were more notes, but this is what struck Evan most.

Flipping on his PADD to the next page of her File, Evan expectedto see the page where all meetings were noted. Though he knew that Jacey had already spoken with Wilson once, there were 3 different meetings listed. Evan’s eyebrow rose with his incredulity. Either someone had messed up filling out the form, or something else was the matter. Thinking the former, Evan closed her file and sat in his office chair for a few moments in thought. Again, thoughts began to flood his mind. Each question was pertinent and each began to burnmore than they had before in his mind.

Though he thought of asking Partcher of the discrepancy in Jacey Adams’ profile, he decided against it for now. What he did decided in favor of,since he only had a few more Files to go over before he would be finished, was of taking a break. Briefly stretching in his chair and letting out a long yawn,Evan stood and moved to the door of his office.

As the characteristic whoosh of the door opening filled his ears, Evan’s eyes fell upon Cadet Adams seated in the waiting area of the Counseling Center. Evan gently smiled and walked up to the young, beautiful Cadet. “Cadet Adams,” Evan said with a smile as he held out his hand, “I didn’t know that you would be coming in so soon.”

“Not my choice,”She couldn’t help the smile that appeared on her face,although she pulled it away and stood to shake his hand lightly, “It’s as if there is a gun to my head and …”She laughed,“Over dramatic much.”

Evan laughed at her joke in an attempt to put her little more ease. “I’m afraid that many may feel that way about their appointments with Counselors.” Evan released her hand. the questions that had begun to burn in Evan’s office a few minutes earlier began to push their way into his mind onceagain. “This is your first official consultation with Counselor Wilson, isn’t it, Jacey?”

“Unfortunately.” She mumbled.

At that moment, Partcher quietly spoke up, “Uhm... Miss Adams it seems that your counselor is running a little bit late and is unable to make his appointment. We’ll have to reschedule.”

Jacey’s brow furrowed, “Doing what? He’s not really employed anywhere else.” She groaned quietly, “I work the Alpha shifts - I changed it so I could be here. I...” She looked at Evan, “Can you do it?”

Looking over at Partcher as she explained the situation to Jacey,Evan made sure that the look on his face expressed his displeasure. As a head Counselor, there was no real reason that he should be late to an appointment that he himself ordered the Cadet to undertake. More questions began to slip their way into Evan’s conscious. It was Jacey’s comment to him that brought him back to matters at hand.

“Of course, I can. Remember, it is your right to choose the Counselor which you find to be the most beneficial to you,” Evan smiled accommodatingly to Jacey. He turned to Partcher sitting behind the desk.“Crewman Partcher, please let Counselor Wilson know when he comes in that I have Cadet Adams in my office and that I will send her to him once we have concluded our meeting.”

Patcher looked up at Evan from her seat behind the Reception Station and nodded her understanding. “Yes, Sir,” she chirped.

“Good,” Evan said before turning to Jacey and sweeping his arm towards his office. “Right over here, Jacey.” The two of them walked over tohis office door, which quickly whooshed open.

“So..” She took a seat, “Is this the part where you grill me and threaten to straighten me out or else?”

Evan was a bit taken aback by the Cadet’s statement. “Not at all,”Evan tried to reassure her. “I’m simply here so that you have someone you can talk to – someone who can give you some friendly advice or help you with things you may need help with.”

He tried to make sure that his tone was friendly and upbeat. Many times, Counselors were seen as enemies, but this isn’t how Evan wanted to be seen.He was there to help whoever wanted to seek his professional opinion and help.He was a fighter and a member of Starfleet just like anyone else in the crew.

“Exactly what is it you think that I am supposedly supposed to straighten out?”

“I..” She blinked, “Well...” Jacey wasn’t expecting that. Her dad had breathed fire and brimstone, as per his usual friendly attitude- and Wilson had come on rather strong as well, “I guess...I don’t know .”

Evan smiled at her once again. He loved staring into her eyes.“That’s alright. Please, take your time. There’s no rush.”

Evan wanted her to initiate the conversation. Often times, a Counselor’s initiation of conversations only served to put the patient on the defensive. The patient would feel as if they were being pressured or, as Jacey had put it, “grilled.” He took a calm posture in his chair in an attempt to put Jacey a bit more at ease. He knew from her file and from their dinner the othernight that speaking of her family and her father in particular was notsomething she did easily.

“Well...” She pulled her feet up into the chair and wrapped her arms around her knees, her chin sitting on top of them, “Give me a topic.”

Evan laughed at the posture she had just taken up in her chair. He smiled and leaned forward, resting his arms on the desk in front of him.“Well,” he began, “how about for the reason you joined Starfleet in the firstplace?”

It seemed like an innocuous enough question to Evan. Start atthe beginning, he heard his Counseling Professor at Starfleet Academy sayin his head.

“I went to a recruiting event, my brother dragged me.” She thought back and a brief smile touched her lips, “It was manic and there was so much to see. They had a miniature warp core which I couldn’t stop staring at. I was fascinated and - well to be honest when I told my dad I wanted to be an engineer and he full on laughed in my face. He said that was a man’s job and that I was far too flighty to handle it. It pissed me off...” She grinned, “ I kinda showed him there.”

Evan grinned and nodded as she spoke, occasionally laughing in line with her. It was readily apparent that she showed more than a little animosity towards her father. A need to compete with a father figure demonstrates a suppressed need for the patient to impress or prove themselves to their father figure, Evan once again heard his professor’s voice. But while Evan was forming a more detailed profile on Jacey, he was also constructing one on her father.

Obviously, the father’s comment about the job being for “a man”and that Jacey was “too flighty to handle it” told Evan two important things about her father; however, he would need to confirm this through more conversations with Jacey. The first was that her father probably did not have a very high regard for women or their capacity in being an opposite sex. To say that her father was chauvinist was too early to say. The second was that her father did not think too highly of his own daughter. This seemed to coincide with the father’s lack of respect for a person of the opposite sex.

The smile that had come across Jacey’s face at mentioning that memory told Evan that it could be a fond one for a few different reasons. The most probable and evident reason was that it was when Jacey decided to join Starfleet and that it was when she knew she could “beat” her father. Another reason could possibly be that her brother was in the memory and who introduced her to Starfleet.

Evan kept the conversation going. “That’s quite a unique way to decide to join Starfleet. How old were you?”

“Eighteen..” She paused, “No, nineteen. I had graduated and taken a year off to travel.” Jacey put her feet down and leaned back in the chair,“Dad didn’t like that much but, I’m glad I did. Being in space makes travel onEarth pale in comparison but, there’s something neat about the cultures on our planet. We’re an odd people.”

She sat up, “Have you read my file?”

Again, Jacey had touched on her father’s displeasure at Jacey doing something for herself that did not fit within his idea of what Jacey, or perhaps women in general, should do. Evan became a bit excited at Jacey’s comment about people on earth.

“You’re certainly right about that. That’s why I studied Astral Anthropology while at Starfleet. If you think the Human race is odd, you should take a look at some alien cultures. They can be quite odd and fascinating.”Evan quickly reigned in his excitement.

“I have indeed read your file. In fact, I had just finished it before deciding to take a break and seeing you outside in the waiting area.Talk about good timing,” Evan laughed at his last remark. “But files doth not a real person make,” Evan said in an attempt at humor.

Jacey chuckled and bit her lip, “So you ...read about my...” She rolled her eyes, suddenly feeling a little uncomfortable knowing the extent of his knowledge,“Okay, I’m sure we can talk about my daddy issues and my lack of love at home or whatever but...that’s a sob story for another time. I really am sure everyone has the same problems in a relative sense.” Jacey took a breath,“Honestly, this is ...a waste of your time. I know what I need to do and how istalking about this going to fix anything.”

It came as no surprise that Jacey spoke of her issues with her father. Obviously her father made it well known to her, and no doubt Counselor Wilson also brought ample attention to it in their impromptu meeting.

“We don’t have to talk about anything that you don’t want to. This is a first meeting, and we don’t have to dive into anything like that just yet,” Evan once again smiled reassuring her. “As far as this being a waste of time, don’t forget that this is what I do. Listening to you is in no way,shape, or form a waste of my time. I’d love to hear more about you, quite honestly, and I am not speaking in a clinical sense.” Evan blushed ever so slightly before he looked down at his desk and back up at Jacey.

He had let some personal things enter the conversation. He had been warned about that by his Counseling Professor, but he just couldn’t help it. This girl had intrigued him, and he just couldn’t shake it. “Any time you want to talk, we can talk. And unless I need to discuss something with you that has pertinence to our meetings, it can be about anything.”

“Counselor,” She playfully raised her brow, “Are you implying that we could, perhaps, go beyond the simple counselor-patient relationship?”

Evan smiled again and said playfully, “Why Cadet Adams, I would never…” but before Evan could finish his sentence, his office door whooshed open. Evan started to say, “Excuse me, I am in a meet…” but the sight of a livid Counselor Wilson was standing in the doorway, cut short his sentence.

“Just what the hell do you think you’re doing meeting with my patient, Cadet Stone?” barked the obviously angry Counselor.

Evan was floored. This was completely unprofessional. How could the man interrupt a meeting with a patient? And why had he referred to Jacey as“his” patient when Wilson knew full well of the rules regarding a patient’s“First Choice.” Evan could not believe his aggressive demeanor either. It was taught early on in Counseling classes that you never became aggressive in the Counseling Center. It put patients in turmoil emotionally and made them less likely to open up at all to the Counselors. This could prove to be traumatic tothe patient and greatly hinder anyb progress made in meetings.

“Sir,” Evan began, “you were late for your appointment with the Cadet, and as I was available and was requested by her..” he was once again cutoff.

“Cadet Adams does not have a choice as to whether she meets with me or you, Cadet Stone,” replied the fuming Wilson.

“Sir, I see no where in her file that states she has been ordered by the CO of the ship to be placed exclusively in your care; and, under the First Choice Regulation…”

“I know the damned regulation, Cadet. Don’t forget your place on this ship,” Wilson said cutting of Stone. He turned to Jacey now. “Cadet Adams,I order you out of this office and back to your quarters, immediately. We will have our meeting tomorrow.”

“You order me?” She laughed, “What are you? My dad?”

“You forget that you at in Starfleet now, Cadet, and you will obey the chain of command. I am your superior officer and I order to your quarters,immediately,” Wilson spoke firmly.

Standing up she looked Wilson over, “I really don’t think I’ll be showing up tomorrow and unless he,” She point to Evan as her jaw set, “is my counselor I won’t even be setting foot anywhere near here. I don’t take orders well. I’m sure you’ve noted that already.”

Jacey offered a smile to Evan, “You...need to finish your sentence, preferably without interruption next time.” She waved and hastily left the office.

Evan watched as Jacey Adams left his office, brushing past Wilson on her way out. Evan watched as the head Counselor walked over to Evan and put his finger in Evan’s face. “That girl is not allowed back in this office and that is an order. She is under my care and is not allowed to be in anyone else’s. The CO will see to it, you can rest assured.”

Wilson about faced and stopped at the office door, turning backaround to Stone. “I expect you to clean up your act, Stone, or you’ll quickly find yourself no longer on this ship and quite possibly no longer in Starfleet.Stay away from Adams.” And with that, Wilson left Evan Stone to his thoughts and the burning disgust he had in his mind for Counselor Wilson...

- A JP with the always amazing and kind of crazy, Jacey Adams!! And featuring Counselor Wilson!!