Chapter One

Riding Herd: Chapter OneReady Room

The corridors were filled with crew, and the cargo bays were crammed wall-to-wall with supplies. Tom had been meeting with department heads all morning, and had just gotten the word from Engineering that the ship was ready for Quantum Slipstream travel. All that was left to do was give the order, but part of him just couldn’t do it. In his heart, he knew that the moment the Atlas left Caloris Station would be the moment that Lisbet tried to come back. It was irrational, but he clung to that hope with all that was in him.

It was only when Chris came that he even thought about giving the order. “Is it time to go, yet?”

Tom stared at the chronometer on the desk, and hoped to hear his commbadge beep. It didn’t happen, and the longer he waited, the more impatient Chris became. “I think Admiral Maddigan might be upset if we just sit here in spacedock.”

Tom sighed in frustration. “I guess it is time to go.” He hauled himself up out of the chair and made his way for the door. As he passed Chris, his old friend clapped him on the shoulder for reassurance.

As they passed the sentries and moved into the Bridge, the large room had more activity than Tom was used too. As well, the ceremonial bronze plaque of the commissioning was now mounted next to the doorway. Tom stopped for a moment to admire it. When they had left Earth to begin their mission, the ship had been barely more than a shell with braces, but even then, the small skeleton crew had made the large ship into a home. Now, it was filled with its full crew complement, and for the last two days had felt chaotic.

Chris’ hand on his back brought him out of his silent reverie again. Tom moved up to his command chair let himself down into it rather roughly. He looked up to see eyes turned towards him. “Do we have clearance for departure?”

Before Johanna Mari at Ops could respond, Chris coughed loudly to get his attention. Tom had been trying to avoid the customary speech since it had been brought up by his old friend. He had been trying to get Tom to laugh, but it had failed. Instead, Tom had responded with serious questions, effectively killing the joke.

Now, he was staring down the barrel of said speech, and he had nothing prepared. Screwing up his courage, he pressed the controls in the arm of his chair to activate ship-wide communications. “Attention crew, this is the Captain.”

“We stand on the precipice of a new mission. While traveling into unexplored space has been put-off, but we are still officers of the Fleet. The mission before us can be difficult, but I believe we can work together to overcome any trial. I expect all of you to give your best. If not for yourself, than for the other members of this...family. Carry on.”

A short round of applause followed, but Tom cut it off quickly. “That’s enough. Mari, get us clearance for departure. P’Rim...take the ship out, and set course for our rendezvous with the Sar’goth.”

A post featuring our XO...Chris Vaughn 06-26-2012, 20:50 Jacey Adams --Engineering--“

Jacey!” Rebecca ran past a group of new engineers and threw her arms around the surprised engineer, “I’ve missed you! Thank God you’re back!”

“It was only three days,” Jacey managed to get out as she was constricted.

“Do you have any idea what can happened in that amount of time?!” Rebecca let go and pulled jacey through the busy work space, “We’ve tripled our crew and all these lovely new Engineers are trying to prove their the best which means they’re being stupid.”

“Did you just call them stupid?” Her brow rose, “Are you feeling alright? “

“Why?” She stopped, “Do I look ill?”

“I’ve never heard you insult anyone like that before,” Jacey stopped, “It sounds out of character.”

“Never had anything to say before. As flakey and forgetful as I can be, that’s still me being nice. Right now, I’m pissed off.”

Jacey nodded, “So...”

“So you should meet the new people in your team, come on,” Rebecca resumed dragging Jacey,“I don’t know how the Chief feels about you still being in charge of the structural side of things but, I for one, hope he keeps you.”

“Why?”

“You’ll see in a few moments,”She grinned, “Our team just got a whole lot bigger.”

Our team Jacey hadn’t really thought of it as her team. She’d been thrown into the group upon her arrival. They hadn’t spent much time getting to know one another and, given how their past missions had been, there hadn’t been much leading. Well...leading worth mentioning.

They rounded the corner. “Hello Miss May,” A deep southern accent drawled out as they moved into position. “Who have we here?”

“Ensign Adams,” Rebecca smiled, “Meet the new boys. That’s Mason, Willard, Willard, Wood, Banks, S’Vek and Egg.”

“Egg?” Jacey looked quizzically at the tall thin man, “Did your parents hate you?”

That brought out a chuckle and Egg moved forward, “No ma’am, it’s a nickname from the Academy. I’m apparently quite bright.”

“Actually,” Wood chimed in, “It’s because of the shape of his head. We graduated a year apart.”

“That too,”Egg agreed.

Jacey nodded. Egg did have a small oval face, and he was - to her relief- younger than she was. It was nice not to feel as if she was the baby around.

“We’re all glad to be here,” Banks stepped forward and offered his hand.

“Suck up,” Willard and Willard mumbled.

“Is his greeting not correct?” S’Vek asked with a typical raised brow.

“Are you two related?” Jacey asked, releasing Banks hand.

“What gave it away? Was it the nose? The height?” Both Willards looked at each other.

“They’re twins,” Rebecca cut in, “I have no idea why the Atlas received both of them.”

“Doubly gifted.” “Equally blessed.” “Twice as much fun as any other engineer.”

“Okay okay,” Jacey held her hands up to stop them, “Skinny twin, you’re Willard one. Not so skinny twin, you’re Willard two.”

“Hey! I’m not...” He looked down, “Well maybe I am slightly rounder.”

“You’re pudgy,” Willard One cut in, “Still damn good looking.”

“Is there a purpose to us all standing around here?” S’Vek asked, “I assume Engineering has need of us.”

“I’m sure they do,” Jacey cut in, “I’m going to go catch up with the Chief. Rebecca can give you a few lists to finish up while I’m doing that.”

“I...”

“She’s basically my right hand girl,” Jacey patted Rebecca’s shoulders, “Be nice to her.”

“Or you’ll shoot us?” Wood quipped. Egg quickly elbowed him in the side.

Oh greatJacey sighed, I guess that story will be hanging around for awhile “It’s a possiblity” Jacey said with a nodd before heading off to find the Chief.

Introducing some new toys of mine! 06-27-2012, 11:10 Edward PellewEdward was wandering the corridors on patrol. He was oddly relaxed, being in port made him nervous. He wasn’t sure why but it did. He rounded the corner and headed into the security office. He walked into the cadet “office” and sat down. He put his feet up on the table and spit into his the coffee cup he used for a dip cup. So far the days have been slow and the crew had been fairly good. Who knows, that could change at the drop of a hat. As he started to flip through paperwork, his mentor Senior Chief Billy Sunday came in. Edward looked up, “Mornin Senior, what brings you my way OPS too lonely?”

Senior Chief Sunday laughed, “Naw sir, we’re doing pretty good so far. Just goin to grab some joe and thought id see if you wanted to tag along?”

Edward smiled, “Hells yeah mate just let me toss these padds in the drawer and we’ll go.”

Edward and Senior Chief Sunday walked down to the galley. The two grabbed some coffee and sat down.

Senior Chief Sunday Stirred his coffee and asked, “So my Friend, How life?”

Edward sipped his, “Can’t complain too much. The brig is empty, I’m bored and my brother found some new vendors for our cigars and alcohol. Why you ask?” Sunday shrugged, “You worry me boy. Ever sense you got your appointment as a cadet you’re like a friggin recluse. Whatever happened to that nice girl in the science department?”

Edward winced, “well she transferred when we pulled into port but she wanted more than I did. She asked the wrong questions.”

Sunday smiled, “Like what?”

“Like where is this going? And other crap like that.”

As the two were conversing two crewmen started raising their voices then suddenly the two were on the ground pummelin the hell out of each other. Edward chugged his coffee and sprang into action. Though he didn’t look very strong he grabbed the two by their collars and flipped them over. He looked at the Senior Chief, “And thus it begins!” 06-30-2012, 17:41Gronthor na'YotCostume Party: a festivity in which the guests arrive wearing clothes that make them appear as a famous person, an animal, a character from a story, etc. Also includes Masquerades in which the guests wear elaborate masks to hide their identity.

“No.”

Birthday Party: a celebration of the anniversary of the day of birth of the person being honored--

“Next.” The computer’s cheery voice cut off at Gronthor’s command and moved on to the next entry in the list. Human customs had not grown any less baffling in the short time he had been aboard the Atlas, and while he was looking forward to organizing a party with Selina to meet his new colleagues the task was seeming a good deal more daunting than he had originally anticipated.

Mixer: a party which is organized for people who are not married and who want to find a partner for friendship, dating or sex.

“Great spirits, no. Stop.” The Daugoff Rho stifled a sigh as his hand came up to his face to rub absently at his beard in thought. He had wanted to be more prepared before going to meet Lt. Vimes but it seemed he was entirely out of his depth.

“Computer, download this information to this padd.” He quickly scooped up the padd and headed to the turbolift and her quarters. When he arrived in front of her door he paused for a moment, settling his mind before reaching out and pressing the chime.

Selina had put on some music in anticipation and was dancing wildly around the room maknig her appearance at the door a little wilder than even her norm. “Gronthor!” Grabbing his hand she dragged him into the room. “Music, we gotta have great music. And stuff from everyone’s home world, what do you listen to?”

Gronthor hesitated a moment as he caught up with the whirlwind that was Selina. “My people have many types of music but I most enjoy songs that tell stories.” He paused, listening to the music she had playing in her room and smiled. “And of course anything one can dance to.”

Her laugh rang out as she ran over to turn down the blaring music. “I thought this was interesting, I can’t tell whether it is Terran death metal or Klingon pop.” Once she had turned down the volume so she no longer had to shout she smiled. “But that is a great idea. If we could have two different rooms or maybe more, for people to check out what other crewmembers listen to.” She bounced over to him and grabbed his hand. “Do you have any songs we could use, story songs, I doubt we have much Daugoff Rho on the data base.....or better yet.” She nearly levitated in her excitement. “Can you sing????”

“My mother would say ‘Anyone can sing.’” Gronthor said with a nod. “And in this I am no exception. I did bring a few recordings of Rho music with me as well, however. To remind me of home. I will share them with you if you would like.” He thought for a moment, his eyebrows furrowing over his red eyes. “I like this idea of music from different homeworlds. That seems like an excellent way to meet the crew.” He hesitated slightly before gesturing with the padd in his free hand. “Perhaps you can help me to understand something... what kind of party will this be? The computer has over two dozen entries for types of parties and that is only within Human customs.”

Selina thought for a second. “A party party....” Was there a definition? “kind of gathering with people we don’t know to meet them and have fun? Isn’t that a party? A mixer?”

Gronthor’s eyes widened and his face became ever so slightly more pale. To avoid accidentally offending anyone he was going to have to study human mating customs. His brain did a somersault as he realized how many other species were likely onboard and stifled a groan. He was going to have to study quite a bit before this party. He realized Selina was looking at him and he did his best to smile and managed a nod of understanding.

“We could always call it a ‘cross cultural musical extravaganza if it needs a name!”

“A fine name.” Gronthor managed as he shoved his fear of committing social gaffes aside to focus on the moment. “There will be food, yes? And it seems alcoholic beverages are a common addition?”

“Yes!” She looked at him like he had overturned Einsteinian physics. “Of course! We have to have food! And drinks....replicators? Or should we try to do something clever with that. Do you think they would let us have more than one room or should we try to comendeer a reaaallly big room and have different sections for different cultures.” Her eyes almost crossed. “I don’t even know how many races are on board. Do you?”

He shook his head slowly. “I do not...” He tapped a finger against the padd in his hands. “Perhaps to simplify things we could get a list of the races on board from the computer and simply ask one or two members of the crew from those races their favorite cultural dish that has been programmed into the replicators. Then we could make a list of suggested dishes to replicate. This way we will not need as much space and there will still be a diverse selection.”

“Great!” She gave him an impulsive hug. “And that gets more people involved and more chances to meet them!” Selina danced a little in place. “I feel kind of like I am existing in a bubble...I would love to meet more of the crew.” She smiled up at the Daghoff Rho. “Or if no one shows I will just make you sing me all your stories while I stuff myself on chocolate!”

He wrapped an arm around her and returned her hug with a chuckle. “Very well. I agree to your terms.”

--

Gronthor checked the chronometer on the wall display for the hundredth time in the past ten minutes. It was nearly time, guests would be arriving any moment. He looked around the lounge, looking for any detail he had missed. invitations had been sent to the entire crew, the room was decorated festively if sparingly, there were tables where the crew could sit to converse or eat. There were two adjoining ‘music’ rooms that were even fit with small stages to accommodate any spontaneous performances. The Daugoff Rho took a deep breath. It was as ready as he could make it.

“Perfect!” Selina clapped her hands together in glee. “This is so exciting!” She ran barefoot across the room to pounce on Gronthor, she had replicated shoes to match her candy apple red dress, but since she had tripped three times going to the door she had kicked them off and left them in her quarters. The better for dancing, she had justified to herself.

“Gosh, I hope someone comes,” she looked around the empty room. “or else you had better have a pretty extensive repertoire.”

Party Time with the lovely Selina Vimes!07-02-2012, 05:39Anahera Chernova1 Attachment(s) U.S.S. Atlas '''

''' Although Anahera hadn’t been sleeping she shown up for her duty shift, dosed up on caffeine to stop herself falling asleep, but that brought its own problems, she was getting jittery and developing a headache.

She made her way quickly down the corridor to the Security Office.

Kate just finished her coffee when the Chief asked her to do the briefing for the new shift. He didn’t have time because of all the new crewman arriving and the associated trouble that went with it. Kate took a deep breath before approaching the Alpha shift group. The group had almost tripled in comparison with a few weeks back. “Good morning all,..” she started. “for the upcoming the shift the attention is at patrol. With all the new crew arriving to the ship, we need to make sure everything goes without any problem. The entire ship is used to working with a skeleton crew, which means plenty of room. Now that has changed, so expect some getting used to that from everyone on the ship. As for the Sentries, if you see someone wondering around the ship, report that, or even better, talk to the person.” she stopped a moment to look around the group. “We made teams of two and assigned a deck to the couples. The names are on the board in the back. Have a nice shift, and keep your eyes open to prevent any problems.”

Anahera caught the end of the briefing as she entered the Office. Approaching the attractive brunette Lieutenant who’d just delivered the briefing she said. “Good morning, Ma’am, Cadet Chernova reporting for duty. I apologise for my tardiness, but I had trouble finding the place. This ship is a lot bigger than any I’ve served on previously.”

“Good morning Cadet, I was expecting you, you’re with me today and lucky for you we got deck 8 to patrol.” Kate walked to the replicator to grab another cup of coffee. “Don’t worry about the ship, you’ll get to learn every inch of it very soon. Want some?” she asked holding up her cup.

“Thanks, Ma’am, but no, I’m already pretty close to the recommend daily caffeine intake, another cup of coffee would have a detrimental effect.” She said with a smile.

“I know the feeling! Come on lets walk.” and they started to walk in the opposite direction as most of the people where going. “Is this your first shift on the Atlas?”

Anahera followed the Lieutenant, “Yes, ma’am.” She said. “I transferred over from the Emissary where I was a team leader, but this a bigger pond, so I’m just have to grin and bear it as work my way back up the chain of command.” She laughed. “Oops, I seem to have mixed my metaphors.” Then changing the subject she asked. “So, ma’am how do like serving aboard one of Starfleet’s newer vessels?”

"I just love it" Kate responded. "It never gets boring and because it's such a big ship there's more chance to get to higher up." They turned around a corner. "you'll probably get a chance to lead a team soon. Even though we're a big ship with a large security team, there aren’t so many officers. I already led several missions, even when I was still a cadet."

“Well, you must have worked very hard to be given such an honour. So I take it the Atlas your first posting.” Anahera said as surveyed her surroundings. This ship was indeed a technical marvel.

“Jep, it is.” She said with a smile. “And you? Have you served on many ships?” Kate had read her file just before the briefing, so she knew of her heritage on mother’s side.

“More than my fair share, mostly freighters, I even owned a few, but the Emissary and the Atlas are the only Starfleet ships I’ve actually served on, though I was the guest of the crew the U.S.S. Monitor for my transport back to Earth for my trial.”

Before Kate could respond her comm beeped. She pressed it to hear the chief's voice. "Lieutenant, I need you to go to the lounge, I got word of a party and need some eyes in there." Kate looked at Ana with a smile. "We'll take a look, sir" She loved these kind of assignments. "Want to go to a party" she asked the cadet.

“Sure, I could use a chance to let my hair down and meet some new people.” She replied with a smile. ’And maybe it will take my mind of things for awhile.’ she added in her head.

“Great, let’s go!” they took the nearest turbolift and went three floors up.

As they stepped out of the turbolift Anahera asked. “So do you know who’s throwing the party?”

“No, I don’t. I know just as much as you!” '''

'''Party? Who's party? A JP featuring Anahera Chernova and the delightful Kate Banninga

Attachment 857 07-04-2012, 13:32 Zara Cooper'''USS Atlas Sickbay'''

The job of getting settled in her new quarters the previous night had been short lived, whereby Zara had unpacked her various changes of uniform and civilian attire and hung them in the closet, before she brought up data on each of her staff members on her computer terminal and settled herself down for a night of reading.

Morning had come around all too fast and for Zara, it meant her first shift as CMO and time to meet and greet her team. She had already left her quarters a good half an hour earlier than necessary in order to arrive in Sickbay in time to say hello to the night shift before they went off duty and so she could get acclimated to her new surroundings.

She was just about to go and have a look in the lab when the doors opened and in stepped the massive frame of an Avian whom Zara knew to be one of her staff; an Ensign named Aelan. She suppressed her surprise; having never met an Avian before, and walked toward him; extending her hand, smiling. “Ensign. it’s good to meet you. I’m Lieutenant Commander Cooper, the new CMO.”

Aelan simply stared at Zara for a moment, confused, before remembering his human manners. “I’m Ensign Aelan. Good to meet you, Commander. I hope you had a pleasant journey to the Atlas?” he stated, taking her outstretched hand.

“It wasn’t much of a journey.” Zara replied with a grin as she took his hand, shook it and released it again. “From Caloris transporter pad to the one here, but I suppose it was pleasant enough.” She craned her neck as she looked up at him; still amazed by his plumage and the fact that he had arms and hands too. “I apologise if I’m staring,” She said apologetically. “but you’re the first Skorr I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so I hope you’ll forgive me for seeming rude. I wonder if you’d mind awfully giving me the guided tour of the sickbay facilities and bringing me up to speed on how things work around here?” She asked.

He smiled awkwardly,"Don't worry, your reaction is still better than a lot of people's." he said as he lead her away from the door. "This is where I work most of the time, along with the other lab tech, Erim. We normally get our assignments from the CMO or the head nurse, Chief Petty Officer Fuqua," he said, gesturing to one of the stations on the wall to his right.

He proceeded to point out the various stations, bio beds, and equipment, finishing the tour with the CMO's office. "Did you have any questions?" he asked, looking at Zara intently.

“Only one.” She replied. “How do you think the staff would feel about a meet and greet in a less formal setting after their shift ends?” She gave Aelan a smile. “I know there are going to be a few people who aren’t happy I’ve replaced a good person so I thought if I got everyone together for a drink or two and properly introduced myself it might go a long way.”

"Umm I'm probably not the best one to ask about social gatherings," the Skorr replied awkwardly.

“Ah...” Answered Zara, “I take it you’re not altogether comfortable with large gatherings?” She gave Aelan a reassuring smile. “You know, I’m not thinking of making it an order to attend.” She added lightly. “I just like to get to know my team and usually I find relaxing with a beer...or two allows me to let people see who I am.”

"I more meant that I don't get invited to parties very often," He replied, feeling a bit pathetic, but grateful for Zara's tact. Although he was initially quite unsure about having a former marine as his new Chief, she seemed very pleasant thus far. "You know, I think I will come. I'm trying to be more personable. Just name the time," He nodded, pleased with the decision.

“As soon as I decide where and when,” Zara answered lightly, “You’ll be the first to know.” She glanced down at the PADD she had been carrying around with her and quickly opened up a message that she had read earlier; giving it a cursory glance before looking up at Aelan again. “In fact, talking of social gatherings...Have you seen this open invitation from Selina Vimes and Gronthor na’Yot?” She turned the PADD around to show him the invite. “I haven’t yet familiarised myself with the entire crew manifest, so I’m not sure who these people are, but you should maybe think about taking them up on their invitation after your shift ends.” Zara gave him a wide smile. “I might pop along myself later and do a little mingling myself.”

"I will come. I worked with both of them before and they are excellent people. And I'm sure it would be a good chance for you to meet some more of the crew," he replied, smiling back. "It was lovely to meet you, Commander. I look forward to working with you."

Zara nodded. “It was a pleasure meeting you too Ensign. I’d better let you get to work and I really should get some work done myself. Thanks for the tour.” She flashed him another smile and then walked away to her new office to really get settled in.

A JP with the lovely Aelan 07-15-2012, 09:36Gronthor na'Yot“KATE!” Selina jumped straight up in the air as the woman walked into the room. She wacked Gronthor on the arm then dragged him with her. “This is Kate! She got knocked unconscious during the war games.” Gleeful to have them meet each other, Selina beamed. “How are you feeling? How many fingers am I holding up. Did you get any headaches?”

Kate immediately had to smile upon hearing Selina enthusiasm, waiving her worries away. “I’m fine!” she turned to Gronthor “We’ve met! Great to see you you’ve found your place on the ship”

Gronthor nodded with a smile, relieved to see some guests showing up in duty uniforms so he didn’t feel quite so under dressed at his own party. “Indeed. Lt. Banninga was the officer that welcomed me on board when I first arrived.” He added for Selina’s benefit. “It is a pleasure to see you again, Lt. Banninga. I am glad you were able to attend.”

Ana waited for the Lieutenant and her friends to get reacquainted. The small human woman had a joie de vivre that the somewhat jaded Security Cadet found delightful and she could not help herself from smiling at her antics. The male, who she would later find out was a Daugoff Rho named Gronthor, seemed amicable, but from a security standpoint he would make a formidable opponent.

“Hi.” She said. “I’m Anahera, I work with Lt. Banninga, Kate, it is a pleasure to meet you both, so what do the two of you do around here?”

Selina reached out her hand and shook the newcomers hand furiously. “Pilot. Always loved to fly and being in Starfleet means I get as much of it as I want...even when I am not working.” She said with a laugh. “I am SO glad you came, now we have a party! What kind of music do you like? Can I get you something to drink? To eat? Should Gronthor sing?”

Kate turned to face Gronthor. “You can sing?”

Ana tried to keep up with Selina’s questions. “20th century rock. Kava juice, please. Do you have any zilm'kach? I’m sure he has a beautiful singing voice.” Ana said with a smile.

“I have always found it suitable,” Gronthor agreed. “But I am likely biased.” He grinned to Ana over his own joke before continuing. “At Selina’s request I had planned on singing a traditional Daugoff Rho song. It is the story of how the spirits sang the universe into being. I had planned on taking the stage later in the evening however.”

Selina had already darted over to the replicator, got the kava juice and after several attempts that sounded like a cat hacking up a furball and getting nothing from the replicator, FINALLY got close enough to the correct pronunciation to get a small fruit on a plate. “Not at all what I expected.” She commented to herself as she bounced back handing over her bounty. “Anyone else?” She poked at Gronthor. “You don’t have to sing yet if you don’t want to...we can make a BIG deal out of it!” Smiling up at him she kept chattering. “Music master! We need...20th Century Rock!”

The Daugoff Rho simply shrugged. “We should let more guests arrive. Perhaps it will encourage others to take the stage and share music from their worlds.” With that he reached over and tapped a panel on the wall, fulfilling his role as ‘music master’ and the song playing shifted to a rock song. He cocked his head to listen to the music as it played, eventually giving a nod of approval. “Interesting.”

“Spasybo,” She said as she acepted. Seeing the looks of puzzlement on their faces she explained. “That’s ‘thank you’ in Ukrainian, my native language.” She took a sip of her drink. “Umm. Okay, who wants to dance?”

“Not me” Kate immediately said. She hated dancing, she had from the moment her grandmother put her on dancing lessons. “I just watch how you dance, while I enjoy another cup of coffee.” she said with a big smile and moved towards the replicator.

“Nope,” Selina cut her off before she reached the replicator. “EVERYONE has to dance!” Clasping her hands, she swung her around merrily. “Right, Ana? Grab Gronthor!” Selina’s long limbs seemingly went in every direction, somewhat in time to the music, her dancing every bit as enthusiastic and unrestrained as her speech.

She should have known Selina wouldn’t accept her not dancing, Kate thought. She tried very hard to be angry, but eventually she gave up and even laughed.

“Right.” Ana agreed. “Gronthor, may I have the pleasure of this dance?” She asked holding out her hand.

The Daugoff Rho placed his hand gently in Ana’s with a smile. “It would be my pleasure.”

Getting Funky with Kate, Selina and Anahera! 07-15-2012, 22:44Tom O'Flagherty"You have been hiding things from me, and the more this happens, the more I feel like you are pushing me away."

"Ah!"

"Captain, I'm so sorry." Raven Duvall recoiled away from the Captain at the sound. Sweat was already pouring from his forehead, now his face was as red as a Bussard Collector. "I didn't mean too."

Tom pulled the gauze from his mouth, and took a deep breath to calm his nerves before speaking. "It's OK, Lieutenant. Just keep a closer eye on your work than my pips."

"I'm sorry, sir. It's just that with Dr. Ulrika gone and now Dr. Cooper here...I'm just really nervous." The young dentist looked away with shame coloring his features.

Though Tom couldn't be sure, he thought the reason for the young man's reticence had something to do with him. Part of the equally young commander feared it was the perception and gossip of his role in the recent personnel changes that prompted the response. That part of him reacted with sadness while the part that had been a Security officer wanted to put the young officer in his place. "Doctor, is this your first shipboard posting?"

"Yes, sir. I was on Bolarus for a year during my residence."

"Well, I'm sorry that this has been so hectic. I promise you that your safety is a high concern around here. I want everyone to be safe." Tom was taking a stab in the dark at understanding his concern, but he wanted to avoid what was most likely the big conversation. "As for Dr. Ulrika, being a senior officer, she was able to pursue her own positions of service. After a few years in the Gamma Quadrant, she felt it was time to move on."

Dr. Duvall seemed to screw up his courage before continuing, "Sir, some of the crew believes that she left because of an argument with you. We all know the two of you have a special relationship. For what it's worth, I'm sorry."

Tom was struck silent. He couldn’t believe how much had gotten out into the rumor mill. In fact, he was a little horrified about how much people knew about him. “So...” Tom started as he laid back in the chair and stared at the ceiling. “That is what they are saying around the ship. I guess it’s true that you can’t believe everything you hear.” The inexperienced captain took a moment to collect his thoughts before moving on. “I don’t arbitrarily remove people from my crew after an argument.”

“So, that’s not the reason she left?”

“That’s none of your business, doctor.” Tom’s voice was a little more harsh than he would have liked it to be, and so he took another moment to collect himself. “Our argument concerned a personal matter. Her decision to leave was based on her own personal reasons. I did not throw her off the ship. That’s not the way I handle disagreements, or Commander Vaughn would have been ejected out an airlock a long time ago.”

“Well, that’s good to know,” Dr. Duvall said with a sigh. “I didn’t mean to get personal, sir. I’m sorry if I upset you.”

“It’s alright, doctor. I know on a ship that rumors travel faster than even we can go.” Tom readjusted the dental bib and settled in. “I’m ready to finish up this little check-up if you think you’re still up to it.”

Raven Duvall took another deep breath and let a small smile cross his lips. “Sir, if we can forget that this conversation happened, I would appreciate it. I don’t think the rest of the crew would be comfortable in my chair if they knew I hurt the captain.”

“You’re secret is safe with me.” Tom closed his eyes again as the dentist activated one of his tools. His thoughts began to wander, but they seemed to keep going to the same place. Tom, we need to talk... 07-25-2012, 22:06Tom O'Flagherty=/\=Mari to the Captain.=/\=

The corridor was packed with people. Over the din of people either leaving their shift, going on shift, or milling around during off-hours, Tom could barely hear his commbadge over the noise. =/\=O’Flagherty here. Go ahead, Lieutenant.=/\=

=/\=Sir, we have a priority communication coming to you from Earth.=/\=

Tom’s heart started to gain in pace as his mind raced with all of the possibilities. Could it be that Lisbet wants to talk with him? Had she come to some new realization that she needed him? Was she going to forgive him? At that point, he would have done anything, including leaving his new command to be with her. He looked up to get his bearings in the corridor and saw a vacant conference room. =/\=Have it sent to my location.=/\=

The lights obediently activated as he crossed the threshold, and he immediately activated the wall mounted communications panel. When the face of Admiral Kyla Farraday filled the screen, his heart sank. ''Captain, I know you are most likely preparing for your new mission. I wanted to send you a message, and state that Command has its fullest confidence in you, and your crew’s, ability to resolve this situation.

The Sar'goth are a valued ally, especially after our conflict with the Xul. Our position is to restore the borders of our ally, while maintaining a cordial relationship with the Kodana. I hope you understand that any prolonged engagement would be costly to everyone involved. With the end of conflicts in this region, we need to begin the process of fostering peace. Starfleet and the Federation put its full authority in your decisions during this mission. Don’t let us down.''

As he stared at the Starfleet Crest which had replaced the Admiral’s image, Tom couldn’t help but feel a sense of hopelessness at not seeing Lisbet’s face there. The Admiral’s words had stuck in his mind, and so he knew where he was supposed to be focused in the coming negotiations. It still would have been nice to feel the warmth of her smile, especially since the impression of their psychic connection had faded so long ago.

Bridge

As Tom passed through the main doors, both sentries snapped to attention. The same happened on the Bridge as his yeoman, PO3 Kallindra, called everyone to attention. She was efficient as anyone could ever be, but so by the book that Tom was sure she carried one with her at all times, even in the shower. “At ease, everyone. Carry on.”

“Captain, here are the latest status reports from all departments, including Stellar Cartography, and Lieutenant P’Rim reports that we dropped from Slipstream speeds with only an 18% loss in structural integrity, our lowest drop yet. We should be intercepting the Sar'goth task force in three hours.”

“Very good, Petty Officer,” Tom replied. He motioned for her to come closer as he said in a low voice that only she could hear. “You can relax. I don’t have to be announced onto the Bridge, and you don’t have to be standing next to the command chair waiting for me to arrive.”

“Sir, regulations clearly state...”

“Petty Officer, we are in deep space. The Inspector General can’t get the drop on us way out here.” He gave her a wink of reassurance. “You’re doing a great job.”

“Thank you, sir,” the young Deltan said. She even blushed a little as she hurried to the main floor of the Bridge and exited for the administration offices on Deck 2.

“Lieutenant Mari, get me the commander of the Sar'goth task force on subspace.”

“Aye, sir,” and without looking up at the Captain, she began to manipulate the the subspace array. Within minutes, an imposing looking creature glared out of the main viewer at Tom. Most of the crew tried to look busy, but it was palpable that the tension level just rose.

“I am General Valtaun of the Sar’goth fleet.”

Tom adjusted the viewer with the controls in his armrest to give the General a close-up of him. “And I am Captain Thomas O’Flaghery of the USS Atlas. Starfleet Command has sent us to act as mediators for your negotiation with the Kodana. We are transmitting rendezvous coordinates. We should all arrive in three hours.”

The General glared at the young captain, trying to make Tom flinch. Fortunately, he was able to hold his ground. “I hope you brought your spine with you, Captain. These negotiations may become...heated.”

And without another word, the screen switched back to the starscape surrounding the ship. Lt. P’Rim, the Vulcan Chief Helmsman turned from his chair and looked back at Tom. “I believe, sir, you humans would call that a rocky beginning.”

“Oh, I don’t know, Lieutenant. I thought that before he started talking we were going to get along just fine.” 07-25-2012, 22:54Christopher Vaughn''':::Sickbay:::
 * USS Atlas:::'''

The sterile smell of medical cleaners lingering in his nostrils alerted him that he was in the sickbay long before the dim lights on ‘night mode’ entered his eyes. By the time his eyes adjusted to the faintly lit recovery ward he had noticed he was lying in a medical bed hooked up to a number of machines. What the hell?, he half thought and half mumbled. His tongue felt was heavy and dry. He tried to recall the last memory prior to waking up in the sickbay. A staff meeting...he recalled vaguely how his stomach had been upset most of the day....his abdomen had hurt....but no memory of coming down to sickbay.

Trying to slide himself up in the bed he felt a sharp stabbing pain in his lower abdomen, “Son of a bitch.” He snapped through clenched teeth.

Someone sleeping in a recovery bed a few bunks down rolled over letting out a pained huff, “Keep it down – tying to sleep here!”

“I’m the goddamn Executive Officer, you can freaking blow me!” Chris shouted back in annoyance cupping a dermal regeneration patch he found near his hip which seemed to be radiating pain.

A figure came running from one of the side offices at the sound of the commotion. A dark skinned female, Chris assumed she was human but he didn’t know her name. “Sir, are you alright?”

“I’m in an ass-less patients gown with no memory of how I got here and missing a piece of my body.” He explained pointing to the incision on his hip. “How do you think I am?”

“I’m Nurse Kreig,” she said calmly. “The Gamma shift team lead. You are about a day out of surgery…”

“Surgery for what?”

“Your appendix ruptured sir.” She continued ignoring his belligerent tone. “You were conducting a staff meeting.”

“I remember part of the meeting.” he said, slowly easing himself upright.

“Dr. Cooper did the surgery herself, spent most of her time with you.” The nurse walked over and checked Chris’s vitals while speaking. “You had a negative reaction to the anesthesia, seems like your pulling out of it though.”

“Excellent.” He said. He slid his feet off the side of the bed and onto the cold floor.

“Sir…what are you going?” Nurse Kreig asked cautiously.

Chris gave a snort as he ripped off the leads connecting him to the monitoring devices, “I’m checking out. You said yourself I’m on the mend and Tom needs me. We have to be almost on station.”

“Sir, with all due respect you are still recovering.” The nurse acted as if speaking to a child. “You haven’t been cleared to leave yet. Not to mention you have other health concerns…”

“Such as?”

“Well your lungs and liver aren’t too good…”

“Am I going to die?” he asked, suddenly serious.

“No sir, we just need to keep an eye on…”

“I’m checking out then.” Chris ripped the last of the leads free and hobbled to his feet.

“Sir you cannot!” the nurse stood firm.

Still clutching his side he stood face to face with the petty officer, “And who’s authority on this ship countermands my own?”

“Captain Tom O’Flagherty.” She said without hesitating.

“Indeed he does.” Chris replied. “But he isn't down here and I am. I’m leaving petty officer. Step aside.”

“The Chief Medical Officer can confine you on medical grounds.” The nurse called to him as he limped around her.

“And where is Commander Cooper?” There was a moment of silence as the nurse tried to think of her chief’s location given he hour. “Not here...no? Exactly.”

Chris left the recovery ward and bobbed his way into the main sickbay, Dr. Duncan stood as he entered, Chris waived his hand and smiled as he moved to the door. “It’s ok, I talked to Dr. Cooper. She said I was in great shape. Free to go. Excellent stamina.” He shot the half Vulcan doctor thumbs up and smiled again. “Don’t worry. I’ll make my own way out, thanks.”

Leaving the sickbay behind he slowly limped the rest of the way to his quarters. Inside he started to run a bath, laid out a fresh uniform and poured himself a gin and tonic. He sipped the drink while he waited on the tub to fill.

Dr. Aaya Duncan watched the XO slide out of side grinning about the clean bill of health he had been given by Dr. Cooper. A second later Petty Officer Kreig came storming out of the recovery ward. She gave the nurse a quick appraisal before letting out a slightly un-Vulcan sigh, “Dr. Duncan to Dr. Cooper. I’m sorry to disturb you ma’am, however Chris Vaughn.” She caught herself too late. “Commander Vaughn has woken up. And then left the sickbay claiming he was cleared by you.” 07-26-2012, 09:06Anahera Chernova '''U.S.S. Atlas Crew Lounge'''

“Gosh, I hope more crew members come, this is GREAT!” Selina swung Kate around and bounced off Gronthor in the process. “Sooooooryyyyyyyy.”

“Oops, botsing.” Kate said dryly. “So, Selina, what have you been doing lately. Got in any trouble for our last mission?”

“When isn’t Selina in trouble?” Jacey asked as she came up from behind.

"Jacey!! Welcome!" Kate said and grabbed Jacey's hand and invited her to the circle.

Gronthor had been watching the three women dancing, attempting to emulate how they moved, trying to dance to the strange music but he paused at hearing a new voice. He turned and grinned at Jacey. “Lt. Adams, I am glad you are here.” He nodded his approval as Kate pulled her into the circle and placed a large hand on her shoulder. “Welcome, indeed.”

“Trouble?” Selina laughed. “I was worried about you so I didn’t even think about it.” Pulling Gronthor into the circle she tried to spin him around as she had done Kate, but just ended up orbiting him like a moon. “Nice to see you again,” she waved at Jacey. “now, this is starting to look like a party...what kind of music is next?”

“Jacey.” Ana said, a smile lighting up her face. She was so happy see the young engineer again. She hadn’t seen her since her transfer off the Emissary. Then her smiled faded as she recalled certain incidents aboard that ship, there friendship, if you could call it that, hadn’t been without its problems, perhaps the human didn’t want her around, she couldn’t blame her, she’d acted like a child and been a jerk. Or was that acted like a jerk and been a child? Thanking Grothor for the dance, the Security Cadet excused herself and went to retrieve her drink. Taking a sip, she wished she’d chosen something stronger.

“Well well...they let anybody aboard this ship..” Her eyes rolled, the memories of the cadet not bring anything but a grim smirk to her lips, “I think I’m going to find something to eat.”

“Gronthor.” Selina poked at him, not sure whether he could even feel it or not...it felt a bit like poking a mossy rock. “I am going to head off Ana...you happy up Jacey.” She started to run over to head off Ana then darted back to Gronthor. “Good luck.” She swatted his arm, muttered ‘ouch’ and danced over to Ana. “Come on! You can’t need a rest yet!!”

Ana wasn’t sure what she’d expected Jacey to say, it wasn’t like they were good friends, when they served together on the Emissary, the engineer wouldn’t even let her call her ‘Jacey’.

When the whirlygig that was Selina Vimes approached her and tauted her playfully about needing a rest, Ana laughed. “Actually I can, to tell you the truth,I’m physically beat, in fact I’m coming close to overdosing on caffeine, just so I can stand. I won’t go into my reasons for doing this to myself, I don’t want to spoil the party. Let’s just say sleep has eluded me lately.”

Selina had gone through her dark times after her accident, but she knew that dwelling on them just made them worse. “You know what’s even better than caffeine?” She asked taking the drink out of the woman’s hand and putting it on the table. “ADRENALINE!” She swung her back out onto the dance floor just as the music shifted. “I promise...one more dance...and I mean you have to dance then I will let you sit down.”

Selina’s energy was infectious and she was quite attractive. “Well, adrenaline’s been a friend of mine in the past, so you have yourself a deal.” Ana said with a smile, as they began to dance.

Kate looked at the others with a smile as she sneaked to the other side of the room. It was nice to see everyone interact with each other. Just when she wanted to grab a seat in one of the boots, she got a call asking her to come to the Security Office. She left the room.

Gronthor watched Selina with Ana, his head cocked to one side. He somehow suspected that she was much better at ‘happying up’ people than he was. He took a breath and turned to walk over to Jacey near the replicators. He stood next to her and waited in silence until she looked at him to speak softly only for her ears.

“The supreme source of happiness is calmness of the mind. Once you have found that, there is nothing that can destroy it except your own anger.” At Jacey’s confused expression he shrugged his shoulders and smiled broadly. “You seemed...perturbed. I thought it might help if I were to share something that makes me happy.”

“Thank you,” She took the hot soup from the replicator and took a seat.

The Daugoff Rho’s smile faded as he watched her walk away and sit down. He watched her for a moment before walking slowly back to Selina where she was dancing with Ana. “I don’t believe I succeeded.” He glanced back to Jacey as she ate her soup. “In fact, I may have only made it worse.”

Selina looked up at the woebegone Daugoff Rho and tugged him into the dance. “Nope, we all decide whether to be happy or sad, you can give someone a nudge, but bottom line it is up to them.” She grabbed his huge hand and lifted it to spin underneath. “Look at Ana, tired as she is, dancing the night away!” The woman did another spin, half tangling the trio up and found her face pressed against the front of Gronthor’s uniform. “Mrrph mmrph?”

Ana was enjoying herself this was the most fun she’d had in awhile, sadly. At mention of her name she smiled and gave Gronthor a reassuring pat on the arm. “Inter-species socialisation is a difficult to thing to master,” She told him. “I’ve had 200 years and I still made the odd faux pas.” Who was she kidding, she seemed to upset nearly everyone she met.

Out of the corner over her eye she saw Jacey eating soup. She raised a quizzical eyebrow, but before she could begin to to contemplate why someone would eat soup at a party, Selina was spinning again and she had to move quickly to avoid impacting with the Daugoff Rho’s solid back.

The door to the lounge slid open, and Aelan surveyed the mess of people before him. The Daugoff Rho quickly stood out. "Gronthor, is that you?" he asked, a quizzical look on his face. Although the two had served together on the Epoch for only a brief period of time, it would have been impossible to forget Starfleet's only Daugoff Rho member.

Gronthor looked up from the dancing at hearing his name. His brows furrowed in confusion as he took in Aelan. “I am Gronthor. Forgive me. I do not recall ever meeting you.” And meeting a giant yellow bird is something that few could forget. He stepped out of the circle of dancing and towards the avian, his expression melting into a relaxed smile.

When the doors opened, Ana turned to see a giant yellow bird enter and wondered for a moment if she was hallucinating due to caffeine overdose. That was until the being in question greeted Gronthor. Gods this place was strange, she’d just got used to the towering Daugoff Rho and now here was a bird taller than she was. She smiled at the newcomer in what she hoped was a non-threatening gesture, she’d encountered large birds before, though certainly none like this fellow, and they tended to get aggressive if startled.

Selina clapped her hands together with glee, she hadn’t gotten a chance to meet the giant neato keen bird guy in the sick bay, but it looks like she was going to get her chance now. “HI!” She bounded over. “I am Selina and I am sooo glad you are here!”

'''The Party animals. featuring Ana, Gronthor, Selina, Kate, Jacey and  Aelan.''' 07-26-2012, 15:33Jacey Adams ''Tinkling Crystal.An unforgettable sound that delicately resonated througout the packed ballroom at the Adams Estate. Quiet voices, loud drunken laughter and the perfect harmony of the string quartet were the only things louder than the glasses moving about the room.  

That was unless you were in the office adjacent to the lavishly decorated room.

“Don’t pander to her,”Byron grumbled as he fidgeted with his bowtie.

“Dear, she’s just...”

“She’s moping because Phillip is my guest,”He gave up arguing with the crooked bow, “I damn well won’t have her embarrassing me again! She’s going to get in that ballroom and show the entire city that we’re fine.”

“Byron my love,” Rhea Adams moved to his side, “She’s had her heart broken. You can’t expect her to just get over it.” Her lithe fingers fixed his crooked bowtie in a matter of seconds, “Why don’t we just say she’s at a friends for the night?”

“Because they’ll investigate which friend and catch us in that lie. We’ve already been humiliated. I can’t risk that.”He took her hands away from his neck and held them in his own, “She’s got a future ahead. When Phil was around she picked her grades up and got involved in some activities. It’s not a perfect final year score but with a little of my help she’ll be on track. I’ve invited the dean of three schools that I feel would suit her. ”

“So you go talk to them, make a donation, do what you do best.There are dozens of guests out there, who's going to notice if our daughter isn’t in the crowd.”

“I will!” Byron let go of his wife and moved towards the door, “Make sure she’s there.”

He opened the giant wooden doors that kept his office separate and moved into the bustling crowd.

“Oh dear,” Rhea quietly said as the doors closed behind him. Sighing she looked towards the door that led to the grand staircase. Pulling the bottom of her long gown into hand, she moved towards the door and up the stairs. ''

---Ark Royal ---

“Jacey Adams, what on earth are you doing sitting alone...eating soup?” Rebecca took a seat next to her, “This is a party. Or at least from the dancing I can assume it is.”

“I just...suddenly became hungry.” Jacey shrugged, “I like soup.”

“Yeah...still odd.”

"Don't like parties. Soup is calming."

"So don't come to a party then," Rebecca looked about, “Have you seen the twins?” Jacey couldn't really argue with Rebecca's last comment. Nobody was forcing her to be there. “At least once everyday so far.” A small grin touched her lips, “Don’t tell me - you like one of them. Or both of them?”

Rebecca flushed, “Well I’m not sure.”

“You like one of them but aren’t sure which one?” Jacey finished the bowl, “Thin or Stocky?.”

“I think it’s the thin one,” She laughed, “I sound insane.”

“Or desperate.” Jacey smiled and grabbed her hand,” Come on. I’m done being depressed. Let’s join in with the crowd.” 07-31-2012, 11:19Zara CooperCMO’s Office

Zara’s head snapped up from where it had been leaning against her palm and a loud crack could be heard as her stiff muscles repositioned themselves in her straightening neck. She hit her communicator a little more forcefully than she had intended; from a combination of tiredness and frustration. “What the Hell do you mean......he left sickbay? Did I not give express instructions that no matter what he said, did or threatened, he was not to be allowed to leave?”

Dr Duncan gave a sigh that was clearly audible before she attempted to explain to Zara exactly how the XO had merely strode from his sickbed and no-one had wanted to tackle him about his departure knowing, how they did, about his penchant of blatantly disregarding anything he didn’t want to do himself.

Zara listened quietly as she quickly shut down her computer console and brought up Chris’s vitals on the PADD she had kept beside her. It gave her hourly readouts on his status and though he was recovering steadily from both the surgery and the complications of his allergic reactions to the anesthesia, he should have remained under constant medical supervision for at least another twenty four to forty eight hours.

By the time Duncan had finished both explaining the situation and apologising profusely for it, Zara was already on her feet, collecting some essential medications and tricorder and heading out of the CMO’s office door; making her way to the XO’s quarters. She thanked Dr Duncan for her alert and told her that she would deal with Commander Vaughn, then closed the comm channel, pursed her lips and marched to his quarters; armed with her PADD, his medication and the wrath only a pissed off doctor could pull off.

XO’s Quarters

She pressed the door chime and stood waiting for an answer; her foot tapping impatiently on the carpeted flooring. “Come on Chris...” She said under her breath. “If you don’t open this door in ten more seconds I’ll have no choice but to come in anyway...”

Chris was just enjoying the first deep pull from his Montecristo cigar when the chime sounded. Exhaling a trio of smoke rings he finally called out to the door, “Enter.” He knew the doctors would be along shortly, his blatant throwing of his rank aside he knew Zara didn’t give a tinkers damn about that. Still....his actions had gotten her to his quarters. He adjusted his position in the tub slightly but a sharp pain shot up his side from the cut. He briefly wondered if he should be in a scalding hot tub with a dermal regeneration patch still working to heal the incision wound. It’s probably fine.

As Zara stormed into the bathroom Chris’s smile slid to a more neutral expression when he saw the harsh look on her face as she noticed the gin and cigar in each hand. “Zara! Finally. This ship has been needing some good ‘stern’ marine leadership.”

She stood aghast at seeing him in the tub with both alcohol and cigar in hand. “Do you have a death wish?” She countered; her expression still like thunder, ignoring his teasing words. She took a slow, deliberate step towards him, placed her PADD, tricorder and the drugs on the floor and continued to advance on the XO. “I spent who knows how many hours in surgery taking out your burst appendix and fixing the internal damage it caused, then you go and have some bloody allergic reaction to the damned anesthetic which means that twice...” She held up two fingers. “Not once Chris...but twice...you almost die on the table and so my staff and I have to bring you back from death’s door only for you to check yourself out against my express orders and I find you, lounging and smirking in a bloody bath, smoking like a chimney and drinking alcohol that will react with your carefully prescribed medication and probably mean you have more adverse reactions.”

She placed her hands on her hips and took a deep breath to calm herself after her diatribe. “Are you actively trying to kill yourself, because I wish you’d have let me know sooner. It would have saved my people an awful lot of time and trouble.” She took the last three steps that took her to the very edge of the tub and she leaned forward to place her hands on the edge of the bath. Her tone lowered to one of concern and her brow creased as she spoke. “Tell me why you had to risk your life just for this? Is it really worth it?”

Chris slumped against the back of the tub and suddenly wondered if there was any way he could slide down the pipe drain to avoid the onslaught. “Well....I’m not trying to kill myself....I just didn’t realize it was that serious.”

He started to instinctively take another sip of his gin before stopping himself and setting in on the side of the tub with the cigar next to it. “I mean, this is the twenty-fourth century I just sort of assumed I was better now.” Her gaze was unrelenting. He suddenly felt like a twelve year old. “And you know...they um...they say the best way to heal is to get back in your normal routine so I was just...” he swallowed nervously. “Um...well I was trying to facilitate the healing process. Obviously. If anything you should thank me for doing my part as the patient.”

As he awaited her response he wondered if she would simply decide to drown him in the tub in his weakened state and be done with him. The incision made his entire right hand side feel like it was on fire.

She had expected the usual bravado in response but Chris seemed genuinely regretful. The fire was extinguished from Zara’s wrath as quickly as it had ignited and she knelt down beside the bathtub and rested her forearms on its edge. “Thank you for doing your part.” She answered in a tired tone. “Your part being trying to age me prematurely because you please yourself and come back here way before you’re healed.” Zara watched his expression and noticed what she thought was a wince as he shifted in the tub. “You’re in pain aren’t you?” She asked; leaning back to retrieve her medkit. “You can’t go placing stress on that patch.” She added with a shake of her head. “We had to use the dermal regeneration patch because you were in no fit state to continue with the surgery.” She laid a hand on his arm. “It was just a stop gap measure until your vitals had stabilised enough for me to go back in and repair the internal damage before we patched you up again, good as new.” She gave him as much of a smile as she could muster. “It was close Chris...too close for comfort so do me...and your friend Tom a big favour...stop being so pigheaded okay? You don’t have to prove how the great and wonderful Chris Vaughn can walk away from major surgery and near death in less than forty eight hours.” She moved her hand to his cheek. “Well...you can prove it temporarily, but if you then die because of a lame assed stunt like that it seems kind of pointless. You don’t have anything to prove, okay? Just let my team and I get you fixed up...in our own time...and you’ll be better before you know it.”

Chris nodded, “My side really hurts.” He added dejectedly. “If I am going to be confined to bed rest for 48 hours can we at least make it my own bed? I’ll even let my attending physician have unrestricted access to my stateroom....and bed.” He threw a smile in to sweeten the deal. “Besides, I suspect it was a poor reaction to the sickbay beds - not the anesthesia - that nearly killed me.”

Zara gave him a grin. “Ah...yes.” She replied; her face deadpan, but a sparkle of amusement in her dark eyes. “I hear biobed allergy can be a real problem for some.” She stood up and extended her hands to him. “Let’s get you out of there and then I can get you into that bed of yours and look at that wound, but no funny business, okay Chris? As much as the offer is tempting and I’m having trouble with concentration at the moment...” Her smile returned once again. “I don’t want to be the one responsible for hurting you even more than you are already, just because I can’t keep my hands off you!”

She leaned forward to help take some of his weight so there wasn’t as much strain on his side, then slipped her arms beneath his; her face almost touching his chest. “Come on Vaughn...let’s get that fine ass to bed!”

Chris took her hand and carefully made his way to the bed with her help. “I can get myself into too many shenanigans unfortunately. My side is killing me. But I can assure you once I’m mended I’ll make up for lost time.” He gave a slight grin as he eased into the bed.

Zara gave him a sly smile as she pushed the covers aside, let him get settled, then covered him again. "You better." She answered softly. "I'm holding you to that!"

A JP with Chris (I don't listen to medical advice) Vaughn 08-07-2012, 16:49Draka Ren ColokGronthor took a moment and surveyed the party. More people had shown up in a mismatch of uniforms, casual wear, and party clothes and the sound of their conversations were a dull roar next to the music. The Daugoff Rho smiled before turning to Selina “It would appear our party is a success.”

Throwing her arms around him...well, they only went about half way, but it was a valiant effort, she looked up. “Yup! And I have already talked to more people tonight than I have in the entire time I have been on this ship. Thank you!”

“Great party, Guys.” Ana said. “It was just what I needed and it was great pleasure meeting the both of you.” Then she frowned. “Is it over, now?” She asked.

“There’s always the rest of the ship to invade,” Jacey added as she walked past, “Engineering could do with some streamers.”

“Good idea.” Ana said. “I’ve always thought Sickbay would look better with some pink fairy lights strung around the place.”

“PARTY PATROL!” Selina raised her arms above her head. “LETS PARTY THE WHOLE SHIP!’

Gronthor thought the idea over for a moment before shrugging his shoulders. “If you are sure we will not be breaking any rules...” He smiled, “Party patrol indeed.

“Alright,” Selina swung into excited action, she was thrilled that both Ana and Jacey were up for this. “Ana, grab some streamers, I will get a bunch of chocolate to hand out, Gronthor...can you find something fun but not alcoholic so we can give it to people on duty? She turned to Jacey. “What would you like? Silly String?”

“You know,” Jacey said with a slight tilt of her head, “I think I’m just going to be the wing-girl here. I’ll aid where necessary.”

Aelan followed quietly behind the group, still confused as to Gronthor's reaction. If he didn't remember Aelan, the Skorr supposed it was best to leave it alone.

Ana grabbed a bunch of different coloured streamers, wrapping some around herself, so the ends didn’t drag on the ground. Despite not having had much sleep and running on a cocktail of adrenaline and caffeine, she was enjoying herself for the first time in quite a while and had a huge smile plastered on her face.

Gronthor made his way to the replicator and looked over the list of cultural food and drink that Selina and he had compiled prior to the party. “Something fun and non-alcoholic...” He mused to himself as he perused the options. “Computer, please replicate a pitcher of Trixian Bubble Juice and several disposable cups.”

He strode back to the gathered group moments later, drink in one hand and cups in the other and spotted Aelan without a task. He smiled broadly at the Skorr and offered him the cups. “Perhaps you would like to help with the cups? I would be grateful for the assistance.”

“Don’t eat the cups,” Jacey cut in, “I remember I had a bird once that ate everything. Although I don’t see you being anything like my pet.”

Aelan slowly grasped the cups in his clawed hands, thanking Gronthor quietly. “I hope I’m not like your pet!” he said to Jacey, trying his best to be friendly. It did help that he had met the Lieutenant before.

“Well you’re a lot bigger,”Jacey smiled, “And smarter and definitely more useful.”

Draka made his way down the corridor, heading towards the lounge doors. Quietly he reflected on the events of the past several days. The sudden decommissioning of the Ark Royal, his reassignment to the USS Atlas and his position change. Upon arriving at the station he had had but a few hours to get settled on the ship before it left port, bearing its new Chief Tactical Officer. Wearing a crisp, clean uniform the Delian stepped through the lounge doors as they swept aside for him. He had reviewed the basic crew files in the time since arriving... but a computer file or two doesn’t prepare one for the reality of it. Amongst the more common species represented in Starfleet Draka saw before him a man sized avian and even more surprising and distressing, a Daugoff Rho. Draka’s instincts fought with his rational mind for control, causing a brief, tense moment for himself as he forced himself back from his fight or fight response. Steeling himself he suppressed and forced down the attack urge, before stepping forward to meet some of his new crewmates.

“HI!” Selina bounced forward seeing the shock on the newcomers face. “Welcome to the Party Patrol.” She handed him a piece of chocolate and smiled. “Did you want to be on streamer duty with Ana?”

“Hey, Handsome, I’m Ana and I sure could use a hand or two.” Ana said shamelessly flirting with the newcomer.

Gronthor was no stranger to the look of hostility that flashed across Draka’s eyes and so decided that perhaps for now it would be best to keep his distance from the Tactical Officer. He hung back in the rear of the group, doing his best to not draw attention, grateful that Aelan was as tall as he was to aid with his blending in. He watched carefully, a small smile on his lips, as the Party Patrol claimed its first victim.

Draka blinked first to Selina, taking the chocolate instinctively, then to Ana, errring and umming a bit. “Honestly...I had come here for a meal before turning in for the night. I didn’t realize there was a party. I’m not exactly sure what streamer duty is but, I’m not one to shirk from a challenge. Lt Draka Ren Colok, Chief Tactical officer, by the way.” He offered a small, somewhat nervous smile, anxiety over the new posting still fresh in his mind, though Ana did garner a bit of his attention. “It might be interesting to learn about this streamer duty.”, he said to her, with a wink,”But first, I need to attend to something.” He turned then, towards Gronthor, moving closer to the Daugoff Rho, offering one hand to the being,”I want to apologize for my initial reaction upon seeing you. You’re a member of Starfleet, and this crew, and you deserve more respect then immediate hostility.”

Gronthor took the man’s hand in his own and shook it gently. “Your apology is not necessary. I am aware that it will take time before those that fought in the war do not instinctually view my people as a threat. I simply wished to give you that time. Still, thank you for your kind words.” He smiled and shrugged his shoulders. “Besides, there have been worse reactions. Let us simply say that it is good that phasers are not standard issue to the crew while aboard the ship.”

He let go of Draka’s hand and gestured around the party by way of introductions. “I am Gronthor. This is Lieutenant Selina Vimes, Lieutenant Jacey Adams, Ensign Aelan and Cadet Anahera Chernova.” He filled in ranks from the pips on their uniforms where he did not already know them, hoping he had introduced everyone properly. He glanced back to Draka. “Welcome.”

“Well now that we’re not going to kill each other, can we keep going?” Jacey raised her brow.

“Great sentiment, Jacey.” Ana said. Then turning to Draka, she said. “Streamer Duty, I believe means that we hang streamers around the place.” She untangled some of the streamer from around her body and smiled as she handed them to the man with metallic coloured hair.

“Tactical! Perfect.” Selina couldn’t have been happier that Draka had gone out of his way to speak to Gronthor and ran up and gave him a kiss on the cheek, which might have confused him, but she really didn’t care. “So Oh Man of all tactical knowledge, where should we hit first? Engineering? Could they use some cheering up? Or...would they let us in sickbay? If anyone is there the definitely need cheering up!”

Draka thought a moment, glancing between Ana and Selina, before speaking,”As a new arrival to this vessel, and the new chief tactical officer...I’m not sure I wish to annoy the captain or XO. But I’m loathe to risk the headway we’ve made. So, to offer my tactical advice about our next step, let’s hit sickbay. As you’ve suggested, they could use some cheering up then. Let’s not keep them waiting.”, he said, gathering up the streamers Ana draped on him, reaching to grab hold of some of the streamers wound around herself to gently pull her along by the streamers.

“Relax,” Jacey said with a wave of her hand as they walked, “They’re harmless.”

<<>> 08-09-2012, 11:05

Jonathon Hann '''.: USS Atlas - Deck 11:. .: Main Sickbay :.'''

The Atlas was a fine ship. The limited time he had spent on board, since arriving, and yet already he knew it was a ship finer than either of the Emissary’s. Being back in the Gamma-Quadrant wasn’t exactly the assignment he had been expecting. Indeed, the man wasn’t sure how he felt about being back with the fleet this side of the wormhole in general. Orders, though, were orders. At least he was still in Starfleet. Seaton had given him a choice, and he had taken it.

Setting foot in the ship’s main Sickbay, Jack wanted to get the exam over with, and be able to meet the man who would be his CO for the voyage. He disliked doctors, as a general rule, and hated medical facilities. So, it was his hope this would be fast, and painless.

“Anyone about?” He called, seeing the empty Sickbay, and feeling a little unnerved.

She’d been checking the calibrations on biobed number three when she heard a voice calling out. so Zara got to her feet and emerged from her place on the floor to see an old acquaintance. Her brow creased as she tried to figure out what he was doing onboard, but she donned a smile and walked towards him. “I might be seeing things, but if I’m not I can only wonder how in the Hell Jack Hann could possibly be in my Sickbay?”

Pausing for a moment, Jack had been about to say something, when his brain finally registered what it was he was seeing. Zara Cooper. His eyes trailed over her for a moment, taking in the medical attire, and his eyebrows nearly vanished into his hairline. “Zara Cooper.” He had thought this assignment was going to be an awkward one. Now he was sure. “Of all the ships in all the fleets, in all the Galaxy.” He muttered. “I had to step onto yours.”

Shaking his head with a sigh, Jack just smiled. “It’s good to see a friendly face.” That brought him to her own question. “Would you believe I’m here for a physical?” He asked with a smile.

She returned his smile and held out her hand for him to shake. “It’s good to see you again, but I don’t remember seeing your name on the manifest. Mind you...” She gave a sigh. “It’s been a hectic few days around here. Not that you’d know that by looking around.”

Shaking her hand, Jack pulled out a PADD. “New orders.” He said simply, and with some reluctance, handed the device over for her inspection.

“They come to us all...” She replied, taking the PADD from him and giving it a cursory glance. “As you can see, I left the corps behind myself. Talking of the Corps though....How’s Laura and David doing?”

The smile on his face fell when she mentioned those names. It was inevitable, of course. He knew that as soon as he had seen her. Giving her a look, his eyes said everything. “That,” he replied in a resigned tone. “Is something best discussed over a strong drink. It’s also how I got this.” His hand waved in the direction of his collar.

“Shit!” Zara said; realising that he’d not only been demoted, but demoted by a considerable amount. “Jack...I’m sorry. I had no idea. Listen, if you don’t want to talk about it, that’s absolutely fine and I’ll keep my snout out, but if you do...well...you know, right?” She offered him a seat on the nearest bed and took another quick look at the PADD. She didn’t want to make him feel any more uncomfortable that he clearly was already so she placed it down on the nearest trolley and instead picked up a tricorder. “Routine medical eh?” SHe said, changing the subject to make him feel a little easier. “Ah...the joys of transferring. So...Mr Hann...Tell me. Do you have any recurring medical issues I need to be made aware of?”

Taking the offered seat on the Bio-bed, Jack nodded as she offered a proverbial shoulder to cry on. “Zara. You were her boss. More than that, you were among her closest friends here. I...” He licked his lips and went on. “I will tell you, because you deserve to know. Just... not here. Not now.” He knew the med staff - if any were around - wouldn’t go blabbing to the rest of the crew, but he didn’t know who else might be hovering. That, and he would need a stiff drink to go through that story.

“As for medical complaints.” He said, moving onto the other subject. “Some doc at Starfleet Medical did a bang up job frakking around with my knee, since then it aches every morning.” He had to chuckle then. “Or when the ambient temperature reaches 15 celsius. I’m the human barometer.”

“I’m sure we can look into that knee and see if we can’t up its thermostat.” She answered airily, taking the hint and dropping the obviously painful subject of his family. “If nothing else Jack, I can replicate a hot water bottle for it.” She gave him a wink as her tricorder did its job of recording his vitals and committing them to its memory core. “Other than the knee then, it’s all fine? No other joint pain, lumps, bumps, bangs or scrapes for me to stick a band aid to?”

“Nah.” He said, feeling her friendly disposition cheer him up already. “You forget, I’m half-Bajoran. Takes a lot to knock my mother’s people down for long.” Maybe this wouldn’t be as bad as he had first thought. Though, only time would tell. “So, am I all set?”

Zara glanced down at her hand and checked the readout. “As far as my tricorder and I are concerned...yes. You’re fit to report for duty and might I be the first to say, welcome aboard! When you’re settled in we’ll grab that drink, yes? I never did need an excuse to get the liquor out.”

That brought out a full laugh. One like he hadn’t had in a long time. “Sure you left the Corps behind?” He asked with a wink. “Once a Marine, always a marine, right?” It was an old saying that most didn’t really get. “Though you leaving the Corps must be a story in itself.”

“It’s true...” She admitted with a hint of regret in her voice. “Underneath these Starfleet Blues still beats the heart of a marine, but you know how it is...things...and people change and spending my days behind a desk just wasn’t my idea of life...”

“That I can appreciate.” Jack said with a nod. “There comes a time, when you have to question what you’re doing, or question yourself. If something’s wrong, you’ll find it there. Then you can fix it.”

“Exactly.” She said with a nod; agreeing wholeheartedly. “It was time for a change, both of career and scenery and it’s really good to have come back to my roots again. I think it’s taken me this long to really realise how much I’d changed since the war. Now it’s time to do what I do best.” She paused, looked serious for a moment, then added. “You know...drink and raise Hell!”

“I might just join you there.” Jack agreed. “After I’ve met with the Captain, of course.” One couldn’t go gallivanting about without having met the CO. “But yeah, once I’m settled, I would definitely like to take you up on that drink. Then we can have a good catch up on everything.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Zara said readily, giving Jack a grin and motioning for him to jump down from the bed. “I’ll send the medical report straight to the Captain and then you’re all set for duty.” She placed her tricorder next to the PADD; resolving to have a better look at it when she finished her shift. “It’s good to see you again Jack.”

“You too, Zara.” Jack answered back, and shook her hand once more. “Blue really does suit you, though. It has to be said.” Granted, it wasn’t green, but the colour - as a colour - did look good on her. “I’ll keep in touch if I twist or tear something.” He called, heading for the door. As far as medical exams went, that was one of the better ones he had had.

A JP with the ever amazing Zara Cooper 08-10-2012, 15:11Tom O'FlaghertyReady Room

Tom was reading over the intelligence report for the Sar'goth commander when his communicator sounded. =/\=Sir, this is, Mari. We are nearing the rendezvous coordinates for the Sar'goth task force.=/\=

"Understood, lieutenant. Have Commander Vaughn meet me in the transporter room."

The final surgery to fix the explosion of nonsense when his appendix ruptured had (finally) been a success. Which he fully credited it to his convalescence being moved to his stateroom. Factoring in this ‘hands on’ care from Zara his recovery had been good. He stepped into the transporter room to see Tom just stepping in from the opposite corridor.

“Well, I’m glad you finally decided to grace us with your presence,” Tom quipped with a deadpan expression. “Lord knows, the ship’s XO needs more rest than the rest of us, but the last few days have been ridiculous. I thought I was going ot have to come down and make sure you weren’t malingering.”

“Me....” Chris feigned ignorance. “Malingering...” He shook his head slowly. “I can’t fathom what my captain is accusing me of.” Slapping Tom on the shoulder as he brushed past him he stepped onto the transporter pad. “Besides, I’m waiting on you now. Chop chop.”

"My friend, if you are waiting on me, you're going backwards." Tom said has he stepped on the platform. The transporter operator, a young human man who had just been posted to the ship was trying to suppress a laugh as he listened to the senior officers banter. When Tom cleared his throat, the young man instantly went deadpan. “Energize.”

The usual wash of blue shimmering light fell over him as the transporter grabbed their spines and dematerialized them. As the blue light faded, the two Starfleet officers were standing on the transporter of the Sar’goth lead ship. A towering figure moved forward towards them, and his voice rolled out in a low rumble. “Welcome aboard, Captain. I’m Commander Baltain, the first officer.”

“Thank you, Commander. Allow me to introduce my Executive, Commander Christopher Vaughn.”

Chris have a respectful nod of his head, “An honor to meet you, Commander Baltain.”

The tall, complete bald Sar’goth warrior turned and indicated the door leading to the corridor. “This way. The General is waiting.” Beyond the transporter, there were few people in the corridors. It seemed as if only the necessary personnel were around.

As Chris and Tom followed Baltain into a turbolift that took them into up a few decks, Tom broke the silence. “It seems that there are few people about in the halls.”

Without any hesitation, the towering officer responded. “They were told to remain in their quarters while we have our conference. Many of the crew are not of high enough caste to see high ranking officers about.”

“Charming.” Chris replied dryly. “Do you find that sort of policy hampers efficiency a bit?”

"Naver," Baltain responded. "All Sar'goth understand the responsibility of their place in the social hierarchy. Squabbles over such unavoidable truths as what a person is capable of are pointless. Therefore, our people work their best when they live in harmony with their position in life. Follow me."

The lift door opened onto an equally unoccupied deck as the last, and the trio strode out quickly. Two turns later, they entered the conference room where the general was waiting at the end of the table. "Captain O'Flagherty, welcome aboard. Now, we can get this trivial business out of the way."

"He doesn't waste much time, does he?" Tom mumbled under his breath to Chris.

Chris smiled, “General Valtaun, pleased to meet you. We were just talking to Smithers here,” he gestured toward Baltain. “About your exceptionally efficient ship. Most impressive.”

The general lifted a quizzical eye at Chris's response, and was about to speak when Tom jumped in. "General, your ship is well-staffed, and we thank you for all hospitality. My XO, Christopher Vaughn," he said with a gesture. "Is very struck by the way Sar'goth society translates into a disciplined service."

The general smiled a wolffish set of teeth at the humans. "I understand what your subordinate is saying, Captain. I know the Federation does not have the same appreciation for order as we. But that is not what we are hear to discuss."

"Quite right." Tom settled into his chair before continuing. "We are here about your dispute with the Kodana. I'm sure you are aware of the Federation's official stance on the situation."

"Yes," the older General said with no hidden contempt. "Your government will not aid us if a conflict erupts. And after our support of you when the Xul attacked."

“That was a different time.” Chris said pointedly. “The Xul wouldn’t come to the peace table - we tried. And we will try here as well. Besides, the Federation isn’t looking for another war and the Sa’goth wouldn’t profit from one if there was.”

Baltain was the next person to respond, as his wild glare fell on Chris. "Where is your sense of honor that you would let and ally spill blood?"

"We are not ignoring this situation, gentlemen." Tom responded. He took another breath to let the tension in the room dissipate before continuing. "My assignment is to do all that is necessary to negotiate a peaceful end to this situation. As much as the Federation doesn't want to go to war, we do not want to see our allies die needlessly when it can be avoided."

"Then, you wish for my ships to sit and wait while you, and inexperienced captain talk out a deal with these out-caste people?" Valtaun was incredulous. His complexion was darkening as his anger built.

“You're throwing around the word ‘inexperienced’ a bit liberally.” Chris retorted. “The captain as seen combat in multiple interstellar wars and has been at the forefront of nearly a dozen diplomatic incidents.” he gave a shrug, “But if you feel your fleet is blessed with a dearth of exceptional experience perhaps you don’t need the Federation for allies. Should we show ourselves out and let you get to it then?”

Baltain bolted from his seat. "By all means!!"

It was at that moment when the general laid his hand upon the forearm of his subordinate, calming the towering warrior and guiding him back to the seat. "As you can tell, captain, this situation means a great deal to our people. It is cavalier for you to step in and feel you can solve all our problems on your own."

Tom sighed in frustration. It was beginning to feel as if he was arguing with a brick wall. "I never said that we were going to be solving all of your problems. I need you to be thoroughly involved in the entire process. I do not speak for the Sar’goth anymore than I speak for the Kodana, and I do not wish to be in such a position. I am serving solely as an intermediary, trying to prevent a conflict that doesn’t need to happen."

General Valtaun rose from his seat and crossed to Tom and Chris. “If you understand your position as such, then I believe we can work our way through this...unnecessary business.”

“General,” Baltain exclaimed as he likewise rose. “We can’t allow our future to be decided by the Federation.”

“Commander, you need to listen more carefully.” He turned to face his adjutant. “I will agree to play by the Federation’s rules through negotiations. If they fail, then it will be up to us to solve the situation.” As he turned back to Tom he added, “is that satisfactory, Captain?”

Tom met the even gaze of the Sar’goth general. “It is all I ask, sir.”

“Perfect,” he said as he turned back to Commander Baltain. “Then, would escort these men back to the transporter? We need to get underway immediately.”

As they crossed through the door, Tom looked over at Chris. “You were laying on a bit thick with the General, don’t you think?”

“Pffft.” Chris snorted. “Screw that guy. We got more experience just flying to Sar’goth space for this meeting than their entire navy.”

A JP with Chris Vauhn...esq. 08-11-2012, 02:03Kate Banninga Kate rushed in the office. “Sorry I’m late, that last thing you asked me to check out, well it took a little longer. But it’s all under control, nothing serious. Everyone was about to leave, when you commed.” She looked around to see both Takong and Joel already being present in the office. “Oh, hi” she said to both men. When she faced Lebowski she noticed the two new pip on her chiefs collar. “Congratulations, sir. You’ve deserved it.”

“It’s ok, your just on time” Lebowski said when Kate stopped rambling. He looked at the fellow officers of his department. Philip Joel and Takong serving on the Atlas with him from the beginning an Kate Banninga joining them a few months later. “Last year and a half we’ve run this department with only 25 crewman. It was hard, but we managed. Last weeks we gained 50 crewman, what means that we can finally run the department with full capacity. It also means we’ll inserting some structure to the department.”

He opened his desk draw en removed a box with two black pips from it. “Philip, Takong, as a token of my appreciation for your hard work during the Atlas maiden voyage I promote both of you to the rank of Lieutenant junior grade.” He took a step towards both men and placed the new pips on their collar.

“That’s not the only change I’m going to make.” Lebowski continued. “Now we have a full crew complement I want to divide the department in three divisions, and I want the three of you to lead them. Joel Patrol, Takong Sentry and Banninga the Rapid Response Team.”

At that last remark Kate’s eyes widened. She hadn’t expect that. She expected someone new, with more experience would take the position. “You want me to lead the RRT?” she asked.

Lebowski smiled. “Yes, I believe you have the qualities to lead the team.” He handed a padd to all of them. “I’ve already divided the crew in the three divisions, except for the two cadet’s who will be rotating between the divisions.” He stood up. “I love to keep chatting, but I’ve got a lot of work to do, and I’m sure you do to. Make sure you’re teams are ready before we arrive at our new mission, especially your team, Banninga. Dismissed”

Kate left the office and walked to the closest desk. As she sat down she let a sigh. She was still a bit shocked. Leading a team was a big responsibility, in particular the RRT division. They are a section that specializes in deploying to wherever they need to be on ship to deal with emergency security situations. If the ship has been boarded, and the need to repel boarders arises, the RRT's would be able to be the first ones to respond to the situation until back up arrives. Their training is more intensive and in depth than regular security officers. Along with the Emergency Security Response Responsibilities while aboard ship, the RRT’s can also act as an Armed Security Landing Party for when planet-side deployments are called for.

She stared at the padd that listed her team. First thing she needed to do was make teams, name teamleaders and get the trainings started. She let out another sigh and shook her head. Ok, here we go! she thought. She walked to the replicator to order a new coffee and went to work.

08-11-2012, 15:43Christopher Vaughn''':::XO Office:::
 * USS Atlas:::'''

''“What have you done with your life?” William Vaughn demanded. He stepped from the corner of the office quietly, his stone like face etched with anger. “What have you accomplished?”

It was amazing to Chris, after all this time his father could so quickly put him on the defensive. “I have done plenty!”

“You have wasted the gifts you were born with.” William continued unencumbered by Chris’s protests. “The money, the time, the education.” His father shook his head as he looked down at him. His features were like looking into an aged mirror of himself. “I regret you were ever my son.” ''

Chris nearly exploded out of his chair and spun around on the man. A cup of coffee was knocked over along with a number of PADD’s. The room was empty. “Damn it.” He mashed his thumb into the call button on his desk, “Yeoman.”

Stepping into the small head attached to his office he ran cold water and splashed it in his face to try and wash away the sleep. It takes that stupid oaf a month to get in here.. Marching back to his desk he pressed the call button again. “Yeoman!”

A waited another several moments and was on the verge of hitting the button again when his office doors slid open and a young crewman of a soft build came in. “Sorry sir. Sorry.” Crewman Belvin said weakly.

“What the hell were you doing that was so damn important?” Chris barked.

“Sorry sir.” He began and then stopped abruptly. “Well…I…”

“Well you what?” Chris waited. “Do I have to order my own bloody yeoman to answer questions now?”

“Sorry sir.” Belvin apologized looking down at his feet. “I got all wrapped up in this holo-vid I was watching and didn’t hear the call.”

Chris felt his fist ball up, but he kept it firmly planted at his side. It wasn’t the first time his Yeoman was found lacking, and Chris had little doubt it wouldn’t be the last. How the hell did Tom end up with a good Yeoman and me with this twit.

“Well if you can pencil it into your busy schedule of neglecting your job, I need the coffee cleaned up.” Chris pointed to the cup and puddle around it.

The yeoman looked unsure how to respond. “Commander…did you want me to check my schedule?”

“No you moron!” Chris groaned. “I want you to clean up the damn coffee. It was a rhetorical question.”

Once Crewman Belvin started clearing up the mess from the coffee Chris shook his head and dropped himself into the chair and went back to reading reports. This mission was going to be taxing Chris suspected. Tom was out of sorts from Lisbet leaving him. Lebowski had mentioned Tom has up at all hours and likely wasn’t getting much sleep. Then there was the nonsense of dealing with this stupid Sar’goth border dispute, Tom needed a mission of great importance to keep his mind off things. Not the mind numbing drudgery of a brushfire border dispute in the middle of nowhere.

“Oh, sir…” Crewman Belvin said as he stood up, the coffee spill gone. “I’m sorry but I was supposed to tell you that the captain wanted a copy of Ensign Hann’s service record reviewed with your comment on it.”

“When did the captain want it?” Chris asked.

“He wanted it by yesterday night.” Belvin admitted. “He told me to tell you a few days ago…but I went and forgot.”

Chris felt his anger near to boiling over. He wanted to hit the feeble looking man in the throat. All this imbecile does apologize for fucking things up. “And what were you doing that was more important than delivering the captains message?”

Belvin shrugged. “I don’t know.” One of Chris’s eyebrows shot up. If looks could kill the crewman knew he would have been a smoking pile of cinder. “I mean, nothing more important sir….it just slipped my mind. I just forgot.”

“Your level of uselessness amazes me!” Chris shouted.

“I promise I’ll do better sir.” Belvin added. “I am very sorry.”

“You had better do much –much- better.” Chris barked. “Now get out of my office.”

“Did you want me to get Ensign Hann’s file for you, sir?” the yeoman asked belated as he started for the door.

Chris fought the urge to lunge out of his chair at the man. “That is too complicated a task for you to be intrusted with. I’ll get it myself. Now get out of my office.”

'''A Post with the ever temperamental Chris Vaughn, featuring his newly assigned Yeoman, Crewman Belvin. ' 08-15-2012, 21:39Tom O'FlaghertyChaos reigned.

Everywhere he turned his head, Tom could see phaser blasts impacting walls, people, the floor, the ceiling. It was total pandemonium in the most stark Miltonian understanding he could fathom. The front sight of his carbine was filled with the images of Xul soldiers. He pressed the trigger as fast as he could while maintaining a good sight picture. His training kept him from losing his composure, but it was a great struggle.

Suddenly, a pain shot through his left side, and he was on the ground. He was hit, more than once. He clawed himself back to his feet, and in front of him there was a huge, fur-covered form towering over another officer. There was a weight in Tom’s right hand, and he swung it at the top of the form. Then, he swung it again, and again, and kept swinging until...''

CRASH!!!!

The dozing captain jerked in his chair behind the ready room desk as the insulated coffee mug hit the floor. He looked down through the haze of sleep and exhaustion to see the puddle on the floor by his right foot. As Kallindra, his yeoman, came into the room, he said, in a dreamy voice, “Man, and the replicator was just beginning to get the coffee right.”

Kallindra froze, worry clearly etched on her Deltan features. “Sir, are you OK?”

“I’m fine,” Tom replied while rubbing his face with his hands. “What’s next on the schedule?”

Her olive colored brow furrowed lightly, but she didn’t question her captain. Instead, she just set the collection of padds on the table. “We have set course for Kodana at warp six, so as not to outpace the Sar’goth. It will be a couple of more days before we reach the planet’s orbit. Until then, we are continuing to gather intelligence from the planet through a source reporting through Caloris station.”

When she looked over at her CO, his eyes were looking towards the upper corner of the room, but she could tell his mind was elsewhere. "Captain, are you alright?"

Tom snapped straight in his chair and blinked hard. "I’m fine. So, we are going to be to Kodana in a couple of days. Make sure all of the departments are making their regular reports to Commander Vaughn.”

Kallindra could sense the emotional pain rolling off Tom. That pain was amazingly complex, but some was pure loneliness, and she could sense that most of all. The need to heal that pain was almost too compelling, but she remembered her oath from joining Starfleet, and cursed its effects. “Of course, sir. Should I also redirect all the questions they have to Commander Vaughn?”

“He is the one they are supposed to report to.” Kallindra handed Tom another cup of steaming hot coffee. “Thank you. Keep it coming.” 08-19-2012, 22:26Gerhardt Rahner'''USS Atlas Main Engineering'''

The increased crew size meant more time for controlled tests and speculative work, and Gerhardt’s team was focused on a recent problem, structural integrity loss during slipstream drive.

“How bad was it this time?” Gerhardt stood in his favorite spot, in the pit, facing the MSD, with the central console between him and the massive display.

“DC read-out still shows 18% structural integrity loss,” McDaniels answered from his station. Even after two changes to the intermix and entrance formations, they were unable to show any change in the outcome. The same 18% integrity loss occurred after each simulation.

“Hmm... 18 is better, but too much,” Gerhardt mused. “If we come out of slipstream into a battle situation, 18% integrity loss will not do us any favors. Very well, McDaniels, when your teams have finished their work, team up with Adams and anyone else you need to find anything we can alter to increase integrity during slipstream. I know you are not experts on the quantum mechanics of slipstream drive, so you may need to pull from Science for this one, unless one of our new additions in Mott or T’Lara’s divisions have done extensive work in the field, in which case keep this in our department. This should be high priority. Mott, T’Dara, same problem, same priority, but I want you examining this from your end. No one should let your regular duties fall down for this, but I want some answers before the week is out.”

Orders delivered, Gerhardt retreated back to his office. The new workload of a fully-staffed department kept driving him back to his desk more and more. Shift schedules, maintenance reports, project theses, resource requests, personnel reviews, all vying for his attention; and he just wanted to go play with the reactor core and the trans-warp drives. ''Surely there is some way to take this paperwork down a notch. After all, I am supposed to put in some workshop time, right?''

Thinking of the workshop, Gerhardt found himself suddenly distracted. There was always his pet project to be considered, understanding the coaxial drive, or an old project from the Ark Royal, using the residual data from an incorporeal consciousness to improve the quantum slipstream drive. That was it! That mission had left him with a striking puzzle, pieces of which the alien consciousness found but couldn’t comprehend, pieces Gerhardt understood but couldn’t put in place. And he was sure that he could find an answer to their very problem if he just...

A blinking light on his desk interrupted his excitement. He tapped the control and his desk displayed a single, short textual message. ''”Your department report is coming due, Commander. Have it on my desk, or I’ll tie you to the wasted genetic material that is my yeoman and throw you in a hole.”''

Damn He scooped up a padd and started banging out the engineering department report. Although he was working diligently again, he couldn’t shake the irony that Christopher Vaughn was being a buzzkill. 09-05-2012, 05:22Anahera ChernovaThe party goers made their way through the corridors of the ship leaving behind them a trail of streamers and a string of crewmen with baffled expressions holding chocolate in one hand and cups of bubble juice in the other. The Party Patrol was underway and headed towards Sickbay. The group reached the turbolift and waited patiently until the doors were opened.

Gronthor looked through the doorway as people began filing into the lift, his brows furrowing. “Perhaps we should split up and take more than one lift...”

“NAH!” Selina shouted happily, squooshing herself in and pushing the massive Daughoff Rho to the back. “More fun if we all try to fit, c’mon everyone.” As the PP started to fill the elevator Selina began to hum ‘Getting to know you’ or rather she sang the first four words and hummed the rest because she didn’t know them.

Ana smiled at Gronthor and Selina’s conversation as they all piled into the turbolift. Despite her nightmares and lack of sleep, she was starting to feel at home here on the Atlas.

Draka piled into the turbolift with everyone, squeezing in snugly. Chuckling softly, he spoke up,”You realize they might think we’ve all come down with something and confine us to the isolation ward.”

“Well...” Selina thought for a moment. “since this is all about getting to know each other, we could still do that in an isolation ward.” She felt infectious laughter at the insanity of them all squished in begin to shake her. “Hey, as long as they don’t take away my chocolate it is all good.” The door slid open and with a giant exhale they all began to spill out of the lift. “and we could breathe.”

“Yes well..breathing is always good. Right then.. leading the charge.”, Draka said, heading down the hall towards sickbay, unwinding a couple of streamers from around Ana, stepping inside as the door swooshed open. Draka swept to the nearest patient, in for a badly sprained ankle, and draped a streamer over the young man,”There, you’ve been cheered up.”

“Have some chocolate!’” Selina handed him some whether he wanted it or not and waved for the bubble juice. “Party Patrol at your …..service.” She looked around. “I feel like I need another p...p word that is.”

“Painkiller?” Zara offered, as she stepped forward and approached the group of newcomers who were draped in varying amounts of streamers and had their hands full of chocolate and drinks. She gave them all a smile and looked from one to the other of them. “Party injuries maybe?”

“Party Patrol Painkillers?” Selina cocked her head to the side and looked down at her chocolates. “I LOVE IT!” Bounding over to the woman...who as she threw her arms around her to give her a big triple P hug, seemed as if she was the CMO.” “HI!

To say that Zara was taken aback was an understatement and she had to plant her feet so as to prevent herself from being propelled backwards by the excitable young woman. “Hello.” She answered giving the dark haired woman and everyone else a smile. She recognised Jacey and Aelan but as for the rest of the people in the group she had no idea who they were. “I’m the CMO, Lieutenant Commander Cooper...Zara...” She said; extricating herself from the woman’s bear hug and extending her hand instead. “It’s good to meet you.”

“Good to meet you, Lieutenant Commander. I’m Lieutenant junior grade Draka Ren Colok, Chief Tactical Officer and avid participator in holodeck training exercises. So you might see me down here fairly often.”, Draka said, offering a warm, if slightly shy, smile.

Zara turned to address him. "It's good to meet you..." She replied. "All...of you!"

“Like wise, Zara. I’m Ana.” Ana said. “And may I say what nice place you have here.” Waving her arm to indicate Sickbay. “Though I feel a few strings of pink fairy lights would do wonders.”

“TOTALLY!” Selina high fived Ana. “We could replicate some for you and take care of hanging them up!” She stuck her hand out. “Selina Vimes and this is Gronthor.” He was being his chill self and hanging back and Selina dragged him forward. “He is the first Daughoff Rho in Starfleet!”

Zara smiled and shook everyone’s hand then turned her attention to the Daughoff Rho. She had fought hand to hand against his others of his species during the war on Megiddo and seeing him standing in front of her in the flesh was quite disconcerting. However, Zara took only milliseconds to compose herself and extend her hand to him. “Gronthor. It’s good to make your acquaintance.” She gave him a smile.

The Daugoff Rho’s cheeks reddened slightly at Selina’s introduction but he stepped forward as she dragged him and nodded to Zara. At her extended hand he smiled brightly and shook her hand gently. “It is my pleasure, Lieutenant Commander Cooper.”

“Hrm... I’m not sure I want to know what fairy lights are. They might be a bit ~too~ much. Might as well replicate some and let me see what they are.”, Draka said to Ana, nodding over to the replicator before making his way over there himself.

Selina beamed, thrilled that everything seemed to be going so well. “Doctor...Commander..DoctorCommanderCooper,” She held out her chocolates. “Have some chocolate? Would it be bad to give it to people in here? We would love to help cheer them up.”

Zara took one of the offerings and smiled at Selina’s infectious enthusiasm. “Thank you. I’m sure my patients would enjoy some, but can I draw the line at the fairy lights?” She gave the partygoers an apologetic look. “Pink really isn’t my colour and they might get in the way...”

Ana looked a little downhearted at Zara’s suggestion they draw the line at fairy lights. But this didn’t last long. There was something she found intriguing about this Dr Cooper. Then it struck her, Zara had a look about her that Ana saw every time she looked it a mirror. It was the look of a hunter, a killer.

Zara couldn't help but notice the look on Ana's face. It was somewhere between recognition and confusion. "Is there something wrong Ana?" She asked; taking a step toward her. "Have we met before and I don't remember you, because I'm usually quite good when it comes to faces."

“Everything’s fine, ma’am and no we haven’t met before, you’d remember me it we had.” She smiled wickedly. “It’s your manner I was recognising, not your face. You’re a killer, Gods know I’ve seen enough in my time. It’s the way your eyes scan your surroundings for threats, your stance, relaxed but alert. You’re a former Marine, right, Ma’am?”

“Is it that obvious?” Zara replied with a grin; wondering how Ana had been able to figure out her past in such a short time and from only looking at her. “I am indeed an ex marine, but I prefer to think of myself less of a killer and more of a healer...at least on a good day.”

"To me yes, but only because I've spent a lot of time around Marines." She smiled. "Perhaps too much time, if my manners are anything to go by. No offense."

“None taken.” Zara answered lightly; a smile still adorning her features. “So, how’s the party going?” She asked them all. “Sorry I couldn’t make it, but I’m glad you stopped by with the chocolate.” She popped the chocolate into her mouth and grinned.

''' The Party Patrol is on the move. A JP Featuring, Selina, Draka, Zara, Ana, Gronthor, Jacey and  Aelan. '''