Created by Commodore Phoenix Lalor-Richardson on Sat Mar 2nd, 2019 @ 9:56pm

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - "Departure"

A Mission Post by Fleet Admiral Paul Carter & Commander Phoenix Lalor & Avalon & Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor & Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Commander Tate Sullivan Ph.D. & Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Bridge/Other Locations

Timeline: MD 1, 09h00

The day was here. The Elysium was off on her hunt for those who had caused so much death and destruction of her crew, her family.

Phoenix had finished moving her sister's and her belongings into the double level Commanding Officer's quarters. It was too big. She had tried to get a normal family cabin but Ops had over ridden her. Now, she stepped on the bridge, neatly attired in her uniform. She paused and took a breath. "Avalon."

The AI appeared. "Commander Lalor" The light british accent of the ship's AI was a nice change from ALICE's harsher tones.

"Summon the senior staff to the bridge." She ordered.

"Yes Commander"

[[Attention All Senior Staff to the Bridge. All Senior Staff to the Bridge!]]

Gary was in his quarters when the summons from the ship's AI came through asking him to report to the bridge. Moments later he was on the bridge. He saw Lalor already there and wasn't surprised that she was already there.Since it was probably on her order that the AI had issued the summons.

He moved without hesitation to the XO's chair, nodding to Phoenix and greeting her with a quiet "Captain."

"Commander" She replied with a small smile.

Phoenix moved down to the Centre chair and stood in front of it.

"Commander. Admiral Carter is awaiting you on the Comm." Avalon announced.

"On Screen."

The admiral appeared. "Commander."

"Admiral"

"Are you ready?"

She hated that question. "The ship and Crew are ready for departure."

"Good." Paul let his gaze sweep the bridge as the crew flowed onto it.

Gary listened in silence to the conversation between Phoenix and the Admiral. Unless he missed his bet, they were getting ready for departure but the Admiral wanted to see for himself how Phoenix and the rest of the crew were doing.

"On my way, my alpha," said Matias. He left Engineering and made his way to the bridge. As the turbolift doors opened, he made his way to the Engineering section and logged in. Turning around, he said "Reporting for duty, Commander."

Phoenix nodded at the Engineer with a smile. "At ease lieutenant."

Dyhei exited the turbo lifts cautiously, a little concerned that she might be the last arrival, but thankfully science was a side station on most ship bridges, as it was here thankfully. She slid into the chair and started setting the station up for space activity. Glancing up and over to the command area, with a little uncertainty stated "Science present." Then returned her attention to the console and the protocol list on the padd place to her left.

Liselle stepped onto the bridge, not fully aware of how much attention she drew to herself as her hands preened about her uniform for any imperfections. Lint, creases, wrinkles -- all things she could not tolerate. She felt her skin flush cold with dread at the though of facing Phoenix and Taylor eye to eye. Yes, Phoenix and Lieutenant Taylor would have been informed about her decision to spend her time in quarters aboard the Starbase instead of the Elysium. And yes, that probably had raised some flags with them. She didn't know for certain. But when it was time for the Elysium to depart, Liselle promptly returned aboard. Still, she wasn't sure if she was making the right decision in coming back. Admiral Carter had suggested reassignment. The notion was stuck in her brain like a splinter. Leaving Starfleet was also an option....

Liselle's lips were tucked firmly between her teeth as she crossed in front of Phoenix and Taylor. She looked up at the pair, gave them a firm nod, a firm smile. Without another word the Trill made her way to the CONN. Maybe when they were at warp, once Phoenix had some time to get her feet under her, then Qwyyn would talk to her about these thoughts she couldn't shake.

Tate emerged from the lift, and before she sat in the once familiar chair, she took a moment to look around the bridge. Like everywhere else on the ship, this space felt altogether different but also the same in many ways. Of course, Sullivan knew there was a world of difference between the crew now and the crew she had once known. Given what they had all just been through, it was understandable none of them would feel the same.

Lia emerged onto the bridge, her first task was to report to the Captain. Her second task was to find her allocated cabin and stow her gear, she somehow got the impression the transporter Chief wasn't a happy bunny with all her gear spread out in his domain. Lia noticed she couldn't see the Captain, but a Commander sat in his chair. oO Could that be the C.O. of this merry band of nut jobs? Oo, she wondered. Walking over to the Commander her soft Dorset accent seemed to silence the whole bridge, "Lieutenant Commander Holmes reporting, permission to come aboard?" The Englishness of her statement for once sounded out of place, even to her ears. Mind you that dishy male Commander in the XO's seat, could make this little jaunt around the universe quite worthwhile.

"Welcome aboard commander. We are about to get underway, if you would please take the security console, we can meet afterwards" Phoenix said softly.

As she turned to leave she stopped and said, "I know this sounds stupid, but two questions. First, can you please inform me of the location of my accommodation. Second, you are the C.O. of this vessel right?"

Phoenix bit back a very nasty swear word in her own language and said almost coldly. "Lieutenant Commander Holmes. I am commanding officer of this vessel and not your lackey. Find your accommodations after our departure. Now take your Station. If I have to ask again, I will be very displeased." She then stood and marched past her towards the centre of the Command well.

"Ouch" muttered an ensign from the communications console. What an impression to make on your new CO.

Phoenix calmly assessed the assembled crew and then turned to the viewscreen. "Admiral we are ready for departure. With your permission?"

["Permission granted commander. Good hunting"]

Matias' ears perked up at the words Good Hunting. That was a Grral greeting when they also left on a mission.

Phoenix turned to Liselle. "Commander Qwyyn, if you could please take us out. Lieutenant t'Valk" she addressed her former assistant chief. "Clear us from the starbase."

"Aye sir" T'Valk replied

"Aye, sir," Qwyyn nearly wheezed next. She took a breath. Those stars out there in the great beyond felt different now. Cold. Dangerous. Qwyyn cleared her throat and spoke more clearly this time. "Aye, sir. Moorings confirmed clear, all clamps have disengaged. Taking us out to sea."

"Avalon, ship wide communication please"

"Of course Commander Lalor."

She looked at the Comm. "We shall be in touch Admiral" And the Main screen shut off and changed to an image of the Elysium leaving dock.

Taking a breath Phoenix began to speak. "Ladies and Gentlemen, We have been given the green light from Starfleet Command. Our destination is Risa. This is, however no pleasure cruise. We are to find out what has happened to commodore Heling. He is the former commanding officer of the USS Skylark a decommissioned Galaxy class ship and the man who signed off on our last mission which ended as it did." she said. "Just over a week ago, he vanished from his home in Texas. Intelligence tracked him to Risa." She paused. "We are to find him, secure him and return him to earth. I fully expect this to be rather straight forward.. just like all of our other missions. Our ETA to Risa is 3 days." She nodded and Avalon cancelled the ship wide comm.

Lt. Liducca had just about finished all of the configurations and setting needed for her station for a launch as the departure instructions were given. She sat back and breathed a sigh of relief and told herself to enjoy the moment. Although the final line from the ship's CO caused her to raise an look of puzzelment and irony, passing comments from the existing person's in her department both the last and previous missions were interesting to say the least. This new chapter had potential to be very interesting, as she redirected her attention back to the view screen and the departure of the ship.

Lt. Grronkil was pleased. All in Engneering was ready. 3 days to Risa. They could possibly make it earlier. He spoke up. "Commander, Engineering is ready, and I could make our ETA two days instead of three if you like."

From his XO's chair, Gary watched as the senior staff entered the bridge and moved to their assigned stations.His gaze lingering slightly as the female manning tactical. Was that a wolf manning the Engineering station? He'd have to read that file. To the other's he nodded politely, with the silent promise of meeting them all at a later date.

Phoenix turned to Helm and said "Once we are clear Commander, take us to warp 5."

Liselle punched in their course, forgoing the military routes reserved by Starfleet. Certainly those routes included Risa in their path, but like all experienced pilots in Starfleet, Qwyyn knew to mingle amongst the charter ships that ferried vacationers from Starbases and science stations to shore leave. Although the Starfleet reserved routes had originally been carved out to avoid the civilian traffic for the purpose of saving time, the charter ship companies had since made clockwork perfection of charting the perfect course for getting their clients to their vacation destination as quickly as possible. They didn't exclusively own these better routes, and in fact, were quite happy to see the powerful and intimidating Federation starships pass through the lines from time to time, sending a clear message to anyone that might think to run a raid on the civilian ferries.

Qwyyn paused. This was the start of the Elysium's first official mission under Lalor. Some Captains liked to give the word: "Engage" or "Punch It" or "Step on it" or "Proceed". Liselle announced, "Course laid in, sir."

Lia walked slowly to her console, the C.O's words ringing in her ears. oO Bit of a touchy one it seems, may take some getting used to Oo she thought. She flicked through the menu, "Here we are, Tactical display and long range sensor sweep" she said to herself. Lia glanced up to see an Ensign looking at her, "Do you have a problem Ensign? If not then concentrate on your own duties, not on what I'm doing. Got it!" The Ensign on comms quickly looked away, oO Grotty little 'oik Oo she decided. She then moved onto the Security file, not much leapt out at her. Not a good sign for a security department, so she formulated a department plan. She decided to recruit only those she thought worthy of being in security, when she was finished with this ship. It's security department would be the best she could make it, with or without the C.O's permission.

Phoenix nodded at Liselle. "Engage."

Liselle let two fingers drop to the blinking command control on her board. The console chirped acknowledgement as the stars beyond stretched out into long rainbows stripes of light through the effect of the warp field. With that done, Liselle turned about in her seat to face her commanding officer. It was time to talk to Phoenix about the dilema she was facing over her future in Starfleet.

And then Phoenix turned to the security Chief. "Lieutenant Commander Holmes, In the ready room please. Commander Taylor, if you would join us please," Phoenix said as the ship went to warp. She would deal with this here and now.

And she turned on her heel and headed to the Ready room.

Lia stood up and followed her C.O. to the ready room, oO Oh this ones got a bee up her posterior Oo she thought. As she entered she side stepped to allow the X.O. to follow on behind the C.O. She knew what was about to go down, her ex Director used to have that same piggy face when he was about to let rip. oO Seems to be a trait of certain command types Oo she considered.

Watching the exchange, Liselle spun back to her board. Another opportunity to speak to Lalor would come later, she figured. Though the Trill couldn't help feeling a slight sting of resentment at how much the job demanded of her old friend. She worried now that commanding a starship was going to make what time they spent together off duty all but impossible. She sighed quietly.

Matias was monitoring the energy flow to make sure all was going right. He didn't want any accidents to happen, even though the last accident brought him here.

LT Dyhei Liducca's Personal Log - Pre launch details (Concurrent with 'departure')

The following is a personal log from LT Dyhei Liducca.

"........and the last group of techs arrived this morning, so we are fully staffed." Stated the Scientist Mate as Dyhei nodder and then added "and fully supplied?" Which drew a nod from the Human male, "Final thing the experiment project continuation approvals four of them, two of which are going to need command approval. "

This drew a slightly sigh from Dyhei, still getting used to having regular contact with senior and command officers, "In that case I'll set up a meeting with him hopfuly today and who is that?" She asked asking part of her responce clashed with the speaker announcement. "That's the ships a AI." The mate responded patiently

"We have an AI?"

"Yes"

"Do I get an AI"

"No, It's a Command aid, so it would be an idea to pay attention to what she says. Particularly phrases such as 'senior officers' and 'bridge'

Her eyes widened at this, "Damm your right, this is still feels unrealike. "

"Well at least we've got a little longer before you start being pedantic and impossible to deal with." The mate staxed with a smirk, already worked out he could push a little more with this chief, something he liked. "Chief get going."

"Yeah.....I'm going......in going. Give me the approvals, might be able to get these done whileostomy I'm there there's rest......" Dyhei said with a wave as she turned to go checked herself and held out her ands for the padds.

"I'll sort and I'll catch you when you back down here." He offered with a grin.

"Thanks, catch up soon." The Lieutenant said as she turned and hurried out of the lab towards the nearest set of turbo lifts

Joint Post: Cheng and CO

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Main Engineering

Timeline: Current

Phoenix made her way down to engineering to make sure everything was square down there. She hated fanfare and chose to avoid the security officers who had chosen to follow her around, by arriving by the Tube entrance. Climbing out of the hatch she looked around at the Engineers who were scurrying past working hard in preparation for their departure.

Matias was at a console, looking over the different tasks that remained before they were ready when his ears perked up and his commander's scent met his nose. Turning, he snapped to attention. "My alpha! We are very close to being ready for departure. Only a few items rrremain."

Phoenix smiled at the officer. "That's good. Let operations know what is needed and they will get it for you if you have trouble with the requisition team.." She paused. "I take it you have settled in well?"

"As well as can be expected, Commander," said Matias. "I have been told to remember my Engineering crew are not Grral, and not expect them to do their assignments yesterday. The Counselor has been working with me on that. Although they are in need of the discipline I can provide to be the best Engineering crew that they can."

Phoenix hid a smile at that. The Engineers were in for a big shock. "I am glad to see that you have everything under control." She replied though. "As long as your discipline remains within Federation standards I foresee no issues"

"Thank you, my alpha." he said. "All that is left is some fine tuning, and we will be ready."

"Good." She smiled. "We are looking to depart within the next 48 hours."

"I will be ready, Commander." he said.

"I have every confidence in you Lieutenant. I will leave you to your work" She gave him a nod.

"Thank you, my alpha." said the Grral Engineer. He returned to his work.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Proper Meeting of the Security Chief

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Commander Lalor's ready room, Deck 18

Timeline: Current

=/\= Previously =/\=

And then Phoenix turned to the security Chief. "Lieutenant Commander Holmes, In the ready room please. Commander Taylor, if you would join us please," Phoenix said as the ship went to warp. She would deal with this here and now.

And she turned on her heel and headed to the Ready room.

"Of course Captain." Gary answered as he rose from his chair to follow Phoenix into her ready room.

=/\= Now =/\=

Phoenix led the way into the ready room. It had been completely redone and now reflected the personality of its newest occupant. The Desk was neat and tidy. There were several low couches and a couple of paintings around the room.

In front of the desk was three chairs. Phoenix moved to stand behind the desk.

Lia watch as the XO passed by her, oO Shame he's married Oo she thought. oO This is going to be nasty, I just know it Oo, She decided. Lia then chose to put her point first, "Captain, it would appear we have got off to a rather shaky start. It's just unusual to have a Commander in charge of so large a vessel, I didn't want to offend anyone. As for my accommodation, despite my best efforts I still can not locate it. And the Transporter Chief wants my luggage out of his location stat". She stood ready for the storm which was about to break over her, after a year at the Department with her new head honcho she was used to it.

Gary passed in front of Lia and took a seat in one of the chairs. As he did his head turned back to Lia and his arm moved in the gesture to join him in sitting in one of the chairs. That done, his head swiveled back to look at Phoenix to see her reaction to Lia's statement.

Phoenix sat in silence and studied the woman before her desk. She didn't glance at Gary, figuring she should speak and see how things went from there. "While it is strange for a commander to be in charge of such a vessel, I find it more strange that you did not familiarise yourself with the crew prior to your arrival. I guess I expected that our new security chief would have made some effort to find out who the commanding officer and executive officers were on this ship." She held up a hand to forestall more comments. "As for your room assignment, you should have told the transporter chief to beam it to the Security Chief's quarters, which are on the same deck as the rest of the senior staffs, deck 17. One deck above this one." She looked at the woman. "I believe you were being played by that transporter chief Commander. Be seated."

Lia sat down and with great difficulty explained her mistake, "I apologise for my obvious error, but for the past seven years I've been attached to Star Fleet Intelligence. The only ship board experience I have is while investigating cases, which means the department sorts out the accommodation. The last time I actually served on a ship was when I left the academy, and those skills are somewhat rusty. Rest assured I will be having words with said Transporter Chief, as I did mention I was the Security Chief". She moved in the chair as the C.O. and X.O. watched her, had her old Director put his oar in and sabotaged this deployment already? She then continued, "As for checking out who and what this deployment held, I did ask my old Director to give me all the information we had. I received very little in the way of data, I wasn't told who was the C.O. nor any other crew details. What I was told was deemed classified, and was vague in the extreme". She sat waiting for the howls of disbelief, her reply sounded weak even to her.

Gary listened as Lia gave Phoenix an explanation of why she couldn't find her quarters as well as not knowing who was in command of the ship. If what she said was true and he had no reason not to believe it wasn't then the Transporter Chief and he were going to have a loooong and not very nice conversation.

Classified. Phoenix stopped herself from rolling her eyes. Nothing about the command of the ship was classified since their return without the admiral. She looked at her desk and picked up a PADD. She held it out to Holmes. "The most current and up to date listing of the crew and senior staff." she said calmly. "It includes family of said crew who are on board as well. As for the transporter chief, I will look into that"

Lia stood up and looked straight at the Captain, "Thank you Captain, I will read and digest the required information". She then went a little bit further than she intended, "Did you know that there is a S.F.I. Agent on board this vessel? And I don't mean me, I'm ex S.F.I. And just for your peace of mind Captain, I'd check that classification. Your Admiral that disappeared happen to cross my desk before I left the agency, an agent was assigned. Seems he has certain information Star Fleet doesn't want spread around, so a sleeper agent was placed aboard. Now I've given you data that you shouldn't be in receipt of, what you choose to do with it is your concern. But Captain, this vessel seems to have some sort of black op's classification attached to it, I'd be inclined to find out why". Lia now sat back down, she felt no loyalty to her old agency. Her loyalty was now to this ship and its Captain, however that person chose to command.

"Commander Holmes, I suggest you stand easy." Gary warned the Security/Tactical Chief. His voice was measured, controlled and deceptively calm. They were the only words he had spoken to this point.

"I am going to clarify something for you lt. Commander." Phoenix said calmly. "Admiral Myrkul Sharr gave up his life and freedom so this crew could return to the Alpha quadrant. He made a deal to secure our future. He didn't disappear. He remained behind in the Andromeda Galaxy as a prisoner." She calmly sat back in her chair. "He left this ship in my hands. And any intelligence officer on this vessel had best get comfortable for a boring assignment. THere is nothing classified left on this ship. They went over it with a fine tooth comb."

She looked at Holmes. "The admiral gave up much for the crew of this vessel. I will get you access to my debriefing with Admirals so you are across the situation."

*Oh Boy!* Gary thought silently, *Nothing like poking at grizzly bear with a stick* As he listen to Phoenix and Lia exchange words. Wondering if Holmes realized the hole she was digging for herself.

Lia glanced between the C.O. and the X.O. Things were getting frosty, "Captain, I don't need access to your debrief. As for why the S.F.I. Have an agent on this ship, I guess that's their business. If I've offended in my haste to defend myself, I'm sorry that wasn't what I was trying to do". Lia cast her eyes down to the floor, "If you wish Captain, I will request another deployment on another ship. It would appear as if I have made myself unpopular with the two most senior staff available, not bad for me. I normally take at least a whole day before I ruffle someone's feathers, S.O.P. yet again". (S.O.P.= Standard Operational Procedures).

"There is no need for that, lieutenant commander." Phoenix replied. She was not Sharr, she had to remind herself. Sharr who would have left this woman in tears and kicked her off for her audacity. "What I expect from you, moving forward is a more informed approach to your job."

Gary sat and listened as Phoenix spoke to Lia and what she expected from her. When she had finished, he spoke, " For what it is worth, you haven't offended me. If you offend me, I'll let you know. I would only hasten to say don't be so hard on yourself. Relax and do your job."

Nodding Lia stayed silent, she had made herself look stupid. And in her own eyes that was a inadequacy, one she couldn't except. She stood up and looked at the Captain, "Permission to leave, I feel there is little more to be gained by my remaining here. I will return to the bridge and continue my duties, if it pleases you Captain?" She was going to speak to the XO, but thought better of it. Perhaps later when things were more settled, if she stayed that long.

Phoenix glanced at Gary for a moment then said "I suggest Commander you find your quarters and get to know the ship. We are currently at Warp and will be for the next few days. Take that time to organize your department, put what changes you need to in place. I am sure you will feel better once you have done that. Dismissed."

Turning to leave Lia spoke, "Thank you for your understanding Captain, I will improve my performance. And thank you Commander". She then left to locate her cabin, on deck 17 she found what she was looking for and set about making a space for her self. On a table in the middle of the floor sat a PaDD, on that was Lia's plans for her department. She gave it a glance, oO Well that was a waste of time working that all out Oo she thought. Her suggestion about leaving the ship hadn't been an idle threat, it still played on her mind and maybe she wasn't ready to return to ship board duty yet. Seven years was a long time to be out of the loop, things had changed but Lia hadn't kept up with those changes. She was no better than a first year Cadet in many ways, that would have to be amended.

=/\=

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - A gorn doctor

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Sthilg

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Commander Lalor's ready room, Deck 18

Timeline: MD1 13h

Sthilg grumbled slightly as he banged his head on the turbolift as he stepped out of it. Federation turbo lifts were not built for a creature of his size and despite his years of working on them he still regular bashed his head on the top. Seeing the bridge crew we're looking at him he politely grinned as he stood up to his whole height.

It was still highly unlikely to see one of him in the fleet and even more unlikely to see one in medical colours. " Helloo everyone." He said politely as he walked over to the ready room door. Waving his hand over the alert he waited patiently for it to open. Doing one last look over his uniform he put on the best look he could as the door opened. Ducking down and stepping in he smiled as he stood to attention.

" Lieutenant Sssthilg reporting for duty."

Commander Phoenix Lalor looked up, and up. Her eyes widened slightly but she stood up as he stood at attention. "Welcome to the Elysium Lieutenant." She said casting her mind back to the new crew listing. "You are our new chief Medical officer is that correct?" She asked. "Please be seated."

" Yesss I am the new medical officer." The gron said pausing to look at the chair. The habit of chairs breaking had been a problem and even with his underweight frame he still wondered if it could hold him. Carefully sitting down he did his best to have a warm friendly smile on his mouth. " I am happy to be here. Ssshe sssemsss like a good ship."

Phoenix nodded. "The ship and crew are both good." She paused. "I do believe however you will have a lot to do. Our previous CMO while a wonderful doctor and diligent in his work, left us shortly after our return from our last mission and we have a number of new crew who will need their physicals."

" It will be my first priority to make sssure everyone has a clean bill of health before we get under way. Including all members of the sssenior ssstaff. " replied the lizard. He'd already set the computer to began organising the needed appointments.

At that hint, Phoenix gave a small smile. "If you arrange mine for as soon as possible, I will be there Lieutenant."

" I'll try and make you one of my first patientsss." The gorn said with a reassuring yet toothy grin. " Is there anything else I ssshould know or may i get on with my dutysss."

Phoenix considered. "I would suggest you speak with the counselor she may have patients who you might work together with."

" One of my first priorities." The gorn replied.

"Then I will let you get to work Lieutenant. Let me know if you have any issues" Phoenix said with a smile.

" That i will commander. I'll see later in the sssickbay. " The gorn said as he stood up and turned to leave. He had a lot of work in front of him.

"Of course Lieutenant." Phoenix watched him go with a small smile. This was going to be very interesting.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - "Sometimes You Can Go Home Again"

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Tate Sullivan Ph.D. & Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Captain's Ready Room, USS Elysium

Timeline:

So much had changed and yet so much hadn't. So much felt different and yet, so much felt exactly the same.

As Doctor Tate Sullivan moved through the corridors of the USS Elysium, she knew this was not the same place or the same crew she had left so many years earlier. How could it be? After all they had been through, and all they had lost, it didn't take a therapist to understand they would be forever changed by their experiences in Andromeda.

Yet, as soon as Sullivan boarded, she felt a sense of déjà vu, an echo of familiarity, almost like she was actually reexperiencing something she had only ever perceived in a dream state. Because she'd been here many years earlier, it might as well have been. That was, after all, why she had been chosen to conduct these psychological debriefings of the Elysium crew. She was somewhat familiar, at least with the ship, but she was also far enough removed from the crew as to being more objective. It was a strange sort of existence, but Tate could appreciate the brass has logic in assigning her here, whether temporarily or permanently. That, she'd been told, remained to be seen.

For now, however, she had only one priority. She rang the chime and waited.

The door opened and a slim male with yeoman rank slid out. He nodded to the counselor and waved her in.

The room was a mess to put it mildly. Packing boxes were everywhere and the new CO, the former chief of Operations was loading things into them, it was obvious the items were not hers. Phoenix looked up and nodded at Tate. "Commander Sullivan?" she asked cautiously.

The reference to her most recent rank still sounded foreign to Tate's ears, having only recently acquired it just before this assignment. "Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry to disturb you. I only hoped to report in, but I can come back if you need me to."

"No no now is fine" Phoenix said with a smile. "I am just finishing clearing out the admiral's things. They are going to ... well I am not sure where."

Tate nodded, the mention of the Admiral bringing up mixed feelings. Truthfully, she didn't know the man very well even though she had been his Chief Counselor back when she initially served aboard the Elysium as well. It wasn't unusual for command officers to stay as far away from counselors as they could, but Sullivan always got the sense there was more to the Admiral's avoidance than even the cliché or his own trauma history. She had gained the impression he felt a closer kinship to members of the command, tactical, and even engineering departments. "I'm afraid I can't be much help there. I worked with the man before, but as you might know, he wasn't terribly forthcoming about himself."

"Oh believe me I know." Phoenix said with a wry smile. "Well, welcome back to the Elysium Commander Sullivan, I do hope you find your time here well worth it." She deftly cleared off a chair and waved Tate to it.

"Thank you, ma'am," Tate replied, both in response to what she'd said and the effort she made to clear her place to sit. Thinking on what Phoenix offered, Sullivan said, "I don't wish to suddenly open wounds when you're not expecting it, especially in an initial discussion, but I did want to say I'm aware much of the crew has suffered significant trauma. While I don't know all of the details, Starfleet Medical has asked me to conduct the required debriefing evaluations and any follow-up therapy required. I assumed you are probably aware of my assignment as Chief Counselor, but perhaps not my initial assignment from Starfleet Medical. I know sometimes the brass aren't always as forthcoming as they intend to be."

Phoenix nodded. She gave a small shrug. "We went through a tough time. The counselors we had, struggled with their own grief as well as the crew's. We lost a lot of good people and." She paused and then hunted on the desk. "Here. My debrief to the admiralty." She said as she handed it to Tate. "Commander, I am going to be honest, this crew needs a stable counseling crew. We have rarely had one. I will be insisting all involved go through counseling, myself included. Commander Taylor the new XO will liaise with you so you get all that you need to get this done. He was not on the ship at the time of the... event."

Tate couldn't be sure, as she was just getting to know the other woman, but it seemed to Sullivan that Phoenix was trying to keep her emotions in check as best she could while she talked about what they'd all been through openly. Still, when she talked about needing a consistent counseling staff to tend to the crew, Tate thought she detected some degree of vulnerability. It made the counselor that much more eager to provide whatever help she could. "I appreciate that you have already thought all of this through. It will certainly make things easier moving forward. I will meet with commander Taylor immediately, but in the meantime, is there anyone that you want me to meet with right away because you're concerned about his or her physical safety as a result of what they've been through? Is there anyone you know of whose health is immediately being compromised because of their psychological state? Constant nightmares or suicidal thoughts, perhaps? Naturally, I don't want to leave anyone in jeopardy any longer than they have to be. While it is true I will need time to get up to speed, I want to allow my lack of knowledge to keep people from having someone to talk to immediately if anyone needs it."

Of course, Tate already knew the ship had had its problems in terms of keeping a consistent counseling staff. She briefly wondered why that might've been and if the attitudes of the command staff toward counselors have anything to do with it.

Phoenix knew she had to be honest. "Our flight controller Liselle." She said. "I tried to get her to a counselor while we were undergoing the event. She went but I believe she will still need a bit of assistance."

Sullivan nodded. "I'll read her file as well as the mission logs, but is there anything in particular I need to know about her situation right away? I don't expect you to betray any confidences, ma'am, I just want to make sure I have all of the information I need to as soon as I need to have it."

"She was severely injured in the explosion. She almost died. Took weeks for her to get back on her feet. She had some issues within her department. A practical joke went wrong... It caused some stress and embarrassment." Phoenix said.

News of a practical joke gone awry was a surprise. "I can imagine the Admiral was too thrilled by that. Thank you for the overview. I'll be sure to meet with her as soon as possible. Is there anyone else you can think of, ma'am?"

Phoenix shook her head. "No not currently." She considered informing the counselor that the Admiral had not known about it to her knowledge but chose not to. "Counselor, I know you will do the best by this crew. I am glad the fleet assigned you back here. They need someone who knows the ship, and who has a history here. If they had sent some stranger, I think we would have an issue."

"I appreciate you saying so, ma'am. I wasn't with the ship long and obviously, much has happened that I don't know about and wasn't present for, but hopefully, some people will remember me, and at the very least, those who don't will be willing to get to know me. I know opening up after dealing with so much and not having consistent therapy will be challenging, but I'll go slow and demonstrate with time that I'm not going anywhere."

"That's all we can ask" Phoenix replied with a smile.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! – WIP

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location:

Timeline:

Now thankfully a ships main engineering was a recognised turbolift stop and was generally with in a few dozon meters of its location, Dyhei fell in step with a pair of gold collored person's, hopeing they were heading towards and not away from main engineering. Where she would find the Chief , again from her brief experience on the bridge earlier she knew who she was looking for and that also he was a species she hadon't encountered yet.

A quick word with an engineer monitoring some display that was likely quite important, she made her way over to the area pointed out. "Lieutenant Grronkil. I was hoping to discuss a few things if your not to busy?"

Matias' ears perked up and he turned. "What can I do for you?" he said. He was learning the ways of these humanoids, and hoped he got it right.

“Im Lieutenant Liducca, chief of science. I'd like to discuss a small amount of modification work to one of the multi-purpose labs.” She stated clearly, in response to the direct request, but curiosity bit her a little and she had to ask, “I've not encountered your species before, are you related to the Cataian at all?”

"I'm afraid not, Lieutenant." said Matias. "I'm not even from this galaxy. There is a similar species to the Cataian in my galaxy called the Katharis, but we're not related. But now to business. What is the modification that you require?"

"Interesting." She responded, ever curiose she made a mental note to catch up with the lieutenant off duty and find out a bit more about his species and him. "Of course, the Bio-Chemistry section are running an experiment, they have some existing apparatus, but it needs additions and a degree of fine tuning off some of the existing components." She passed the PaDD with the specs over, showed a diagram of the set up already in place, with the additions overlayed. "Can you spare any engineers?"

"All is in working order here. I can go myself to do what is required," said Matias, looking at the PADD. "It should be no problem implementing these changes."

"Really! That's.......that's reallyour helpful, Thank you." Dyhei responded trying to take the supprise out of voice but failing, years of hearing officers grumble about engineers had her going into this expecting to have to work to convince. She was pleasantly surprised it seemed, may be this chief business wasn't all that hard she started to think. "Can you get to it today or will it be tommorow? either way I'll tell the officers and technicians to expect you."

"Everything is in order here, so I would say today." said Matias. "I'll get my things and be over as soon as possible."

"Great. Well I've got a few other departmental things to see too, I'll leave you to it, any issues let me know" Dyhei nodded and turned to go. "If you see me in the lounge, I owe you a drink." She added before making her way out of engineering.

"Very good." said Matias. "I'll take you up on that."

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!- Gary meets the gorn.

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Sthilg & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Med bay.

Timeline:

As another successful patient left the med bay the old gorn splashed what was left of cold water onto his face. Grinning to himself he walked over to his small office and checked the schedule of the crew who were due for their medical checkup. The next one due was the executive officer.

Tapping his comm badge the gorn spoke clearly and politely.

=^= Lieutenant Gary Taylor this is doctor Sthilg are you ssstill free for your medical checkup."

Gary was in his quarters, he was going over some personnel files where he could read them without fear of interruption or so he thought until his combadge chirped and he heard Sthilg's voice. *Well so much for no interruptions." He said to himself. Heaving a silent sigh, he answered =^= As a matter of fact, I am free Doctor and it's Lieutenant Commander or Commander. I take it you want me in Sickbay now?" The last said more as a question.

" If possible commander. I have a long list of people to examine." came the gorns reply.

"Very well Doctor. I'll be there within five minutes." Gary replied. Four minutes later Gary was standing in Sickbay's outer receiving area. "Alright Doctor, I'm here, might as well get this over with." He announced more brusquely then he intended. Gary had nothing against the Gorn, doctors in general were a necessary evil to tolerate and submitting to an annual physical was part of being tolerant.

Noting his tone the gorn guessed the commander wasn't a fan of check up's. " If you'll come with me will get this over as quickly as possssible commander. " He said walking over to one of the bio bed and pulling out a padd. " Any sssurgeries or injuriesss accured since your last medical checkup?" He said bringing up the checklist that was all to familiar.

Gary followed the CMO over to one of the bio beds and sat down on it as Sthilg asked his required questions. Shaking his head from side to side, he replied. "Nope. Fit as a fiddle doc. No complaints."

Ticking the box the gorn slid the padd back into his pocket before switching on the medical scanner. " Very well. This ssshouldn't take long. " He said politely as he looked at the data coming through. " Everything appears to be within acceptable parameters. The ssscars along your chest and back ae they giving you any pain?" He inquired.

Gary subconsciously fingered the scars on his chest. They were a reminder of what he had endured during his time as a prisoner in the Romulan prison camp. The scars showed what he had overcome and not broken. "No pain doc." He replied simply not wishing to elaborate on the statement.

Noting the human's body language the gorn didn't pray any further. He had his own experiences at lifeforms who specialise in getting information from other creatures. Thankfully the humans scan brought up other questions. " You train in unarmed combat commander?" He asked noting the strain on some of his muscles.

"Yes I do doctor." Gary acknowledged, "Several forms to be precise. I am a master in a variety of them." It was not said in an arrogant or boastful manner but rather in a simple straight forward way.

" It'sss ssshows on the inside. " Replied the doctor as the scan's finished. " Well commander other than a ssslightly low sssalt level you appear to be in perfectly acceptable health. " Sthilg announced as he saved the scan and sent the results of to the commanders medical profile.

Gary nodded at the doctor's prognosis, a slight smile coming to his face. "Perfectly, acceptable health huh? I think I can live with that." He replied wryly.

" Is sssomething wrong commander? " The gorn said nothing the tone in his voice.

Gary shook his head, the grin still plastered on his face, "Nothing at all doc. I'm glad to be in perfectly acceptable health. Of course tip top health would have been better." He jested lightly.

" Very well." The gorn said handing the commander a padd containing a copy of his medical scan. " If I may ask commander have you heard were the ssship going to be deployed? I haven't had a chance to asssk the captain while I've been down here."

Sliding off the bio bed, Gary accepted the PaDD. Standing he studied the CMO for several seconds before replying. "Yes. I've heard.'' was his short reply.

" Well, asss sssoon asss you and the captain deem it necessary can you sssend me any information you'll think I'll need. Always nice to have a sssurplus of necessary medical sssupliesss we'll need." The gorn said his mind as always on the job.

Heading for the exit out of Sickbay, Gary looked over his shoulder at the CMO, "No worries on that score Doc. I promise you'll know soon enough so you can have an adequate supply of medicine." He replied before exiting.

" Take care commander. " He said after the commander as he returned to his work around the sickbay.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!-Inside a flight officer

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Sthilg & Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: medbay

Timeline:

Sthilg scowled as he bite down into the grey which he hastily swallowed. Having to eat a large amount of protein mix to help regain his weight he'd lost was very unpleasant. Pushing what was left of the bowl to one side he downed the water at his side in one gulp though it did nothing to hide the bitter taste in his mouth.

Thankfully the sound of the medical bay doors opening distracted him. Recognising the trill stepping through the door as the ships flight officer who was the next crew scheduled for their medical checkup.

" Lieutenant Commander Lissselle Qwyyn isn't it?" He said standing up and walked over to the trill hoping he didn't look to threatening.

Qwyyn's eyes grew to the size of moons. She raised both hands in front of her as she slowed to a stop. "I -- didn't -- you're a -- if --" her eyes continued to remain as they were, stretched wide open, unblinking.

Having received this treatment quite a few times before the gorn simply smiled back. Not many people did have a positive reaction to a gorn doctor. " Yesss i know not many of my ssspeciesss in the fleet."

She collapsed her hands over her left breast. "I'm sorry," she stammered. She flushed with embarrassment. "It's just that I wasn't expecting -- I mean, not that it should matter -- I've never seen -- what I'm trying to say --" she took a breath. "Yes, Lieutenant Commander Qwyyn reporting."

" Well commander if you'd like to follow me we can get the ssscan done." the gorn said reassuringly as he walked over to one fo the bio beds. " Any new injuries or allergiesss sssince your last ssscan?? He politely inquired as he switched on the computer.

Liselle breathed a sigh of relief as she followed him, greatful that he had let her off the hook. Still, she was embarrassed beyond belief. "My symbiont was badly hurt a few months ago. I was in a coma and then on bed rest for several months," she said as she hopped up onto the bed. She didn't know why she was telling him this, clearly he had already been through her file. But she was concerned. "My last doctor was closely monitoring me. He was a little concerned about turning my long term treatment over to someone else. I'd take it as high praise that he trusted you," she said, forcing a warm smile. In truth, even her own people back on Trill hadn't expected her to survive given her wounds. She could only hope this gorn was as good as Dr. Monz seemed to think he was.

" Doctor Monz is a dear friend and he will happily tell you i wasss fixing people before his grandmother walked the galaxy." The gorn replied with a friendly calming tone as he ticked off the padd before sliding it into his lab coat. Nothing new to report. Hopefully, he would be updating it wth good news. " It's been a while sssince I've worked with a joined trill. Don't sssuppose you know a zesh sssymbiote? " He said as he began starting a new medical scan.

Liselle grabbed the doctor's arm before she realized what she was doing. "Vaz tol pel ma vo'on!" she exclaimed in Trill. Only then did she notice she had grabbed the gorn's arm and she smartly took her fingers from his lab coat. "Sorry," she added, another degree added to the heat of her embarrassment. "My previous host, Melbin, he was a crotchety, stoic old man and a Trill Guardian. Long Story. Anyway, I watched over Arx, Valic, Nor, Tul, and Zesh!" She placed a hand on her forehead, her eyes lost. "Zesh! Gods! What a finite galaxy it truly is! Zesh's last joining must have been, vo' prel ta mass, how many years has it been?"

" Well i'm not to sssure of that, but lassst time i sssaw the current hossst was doing well after we fixed her and the sssymbote. It had a very nasty reaction to the drugs she was talking. We had to cut off the sssymbiotes ssssupply to her blood ssstream so we could inssstall an artafical blood supply. " The gorn said happily remembering happier times. Noting the slight look of confusion on the trills face he responded. " Ssshe was taking a combination of pheromonesss and other drugs to aid her pregnancy. Turnsss out the Zesh sssymbiote was very allergic to one."

Liselle's eyes went wide once again. Thankfully, this time it was in admiration and not in inappropriately displayed surprise. "You were able to sustain a symbiont with artificial blood? During a pregnancy?" she asked, incredulous. Qwyyn immediately began to feel the tension of having a new doctor watch over her begin to dissipate. Without further argument she resigned to give herself over to Sthilg and his judgement of her care. "Doctor, I'm sorry I ever doubted you. If Ian trusted you, then I trust you," she said with finality. A thought occurred to Qwyyn then, and she couldn't help but voice it on Melbin's behalf. "Do you know what happened to the symbiont? I never tended Zesh again after the last joining..."

" Lassst time I sssaw her ssshe and her hussband were taking seeome time of to take care of their daughter. " The Gorn said as he started the scan. " The painkillersss you were pressscribed are they ssstill working?" He said looking at the scan results as they began to come through.

Qwyyn couldn't help but continue to smile at the notion of Zesh back out there again in the galaxy with a new host. It seemed like only yesterday since the last time Melbin had communicated through the telepathic pooling channels in the caves beneath Elbadon on Trill...

She brought herself back to the present again, and to the Doctor's question. "The pain comes and goes. It's usually worse at night. I wake up a lot," she said, and she dragged a hand down her face to emphasize her fatigue. "I don't suppose you have anything that could really knock me out? For when I have a particularly bad stretch of nights?"

" I'm afraid you have sssome of the ssstrongessst ssstuff in the fleet. Anything else could caussse ssserious harm." The gorn replied with a serious look on his face.

Liselle bit her lip. Before her joining, Liselle Swii had been a surgeon. She remembered a very powerful narcotic, traxolprine, that could knock out even a rabid Klingon for hours. She nearly asked the Gorn about it, but quickly thought better of it. Not only would he likely deny her, it would likely trigger him to become suspicious about her current need for pain killers. "Well, if you do come across any other ideas that might help, please let me know," Qwyyn said.

" Off courssse. I will. " The gorn responded as he looked at the scans. " Well you're healing, but very ssslowly. I'll need to run a deeper ssscan to get a good look at the sssyombiote."

"Of course," she said, relieved that the talk of pain killers had passed. "What do you need me to do?"

" Roll over onto your ssside." Sthilg said as he picked up a more detailed scanning device and clipping on the holo projector onto his other arm.

She did as he instructed so that she was facing away from him now. "Can I ask you something?" And without waiting for a reply, she pressed on. "How did you end up being a doctor? I was a surgeon before my current host was joined. After the joining, I wanted nothing to do with it."

The gorn was silent for a while before smiling and replied. " My home was a sssmall barren rock in the middle of nowhere. Wasssn't much work to go round other than mining, hunting and ssstring the wrecksss of crassshed sstarships. All of which i failed missserably at. When i came of age the colony healer took me on as her apprentice. Nothing asss fancy asss this. Grinding herbs and brewing basic tonics to help. I wasss rather good at it. It all changed one day when a federation constitution classss ssship crasshed onto the planet. We rescued the surrviving crew and with the help of the ssshipsss sssurvivng we we're able to get everyone ssstablaised."

The gorn paushed in telling his tale though he still continued his work. Though his face didn't change the look of sadness in his white eyes was unmistakable.

" Then the sssicknesss came. The ssship had dug it up from it centuries of dormancy. It ssspread through the colony like wildfire and killed both gorn, human,vulcan and andorian. I'll ssspare you the detailsss, but within a week half of usss were dead. Me and the ssshipsss sssurvivng doctor tracked back to the ssship to ussse its facilitiesss to make a cure. Luckily we managed to make it and sssave who was left. Doctor T'Madh gave me her medical almanack for helping her. I treid to ssstay at the colony, but within a few mouths everyone decided to leave. With no other ssskillsss i left and ssstarted ssselling my ssservicesss in the badlands. Always people looking for doctors out there."

Although there was a chance that it would interfere with the testing, Qwyyn couldn't help herself from rolling back slightly so that she could look at Sthilg over her shoulder. She wanted a moment to connect with him, to see his eyes and share a moment of sympathy with him. She wasn't sure if this was appropriate behavior for his people, if in fact such a direct action might be considered insulting to him, but it was something she needed to do. "You've been through a lot," she said softly.

" You don't get to my age and not go through a lot. " The gorn replied as he returned to the scan. A holographic image of the symbiote appeared which the doctor froze to get a better look at it. It was obviously badly hurt, but it did slowly seem to be recovering even with the scar tissue on it's surface. " I'll have to sssend the ssscansss to trill to let them have a look, but it appearsss to be healing."

Qwyyn's hand went subconsciously to her abdomen. "I'm sure they'll be thrilled to see the trouble I've managed to get myself into with yet another host," she said sarcastically.

" They'll be happy you're ssstill alive and kicking." The gorn replied as he downloaded and stored the scan for further use. " Well your healing, but ssslowly I'd like you in here in the next few daysss ssso i can check on your progressss. " he said concern showing in his reptilian voice.

A request for immediate medical follow-ups would normally cause an involuntary groan from Qwyyn. She stayed silent. She liked this sapient. He intrigued her in all the ways that he taught her to reconsider her archaic stereotypes of what little she knew of the Gorn. She wanted to learn more about him, and she was more than happy for the excuse to speak with him again. She gave him a quick two finger salute from the top of her right eyebrow. "I'll be here," she promised. She extended her hand and gave the doctor a genuine smile. "And welcome aboard, Sthilg. If anyone had to replace Ian, I'm glad it's you."

The gorn nodded politely as he prepped the computer for another scan. " Happy to be here." he said as the door's closed and opened as another patient stepped through the door. The work never ended here in sickbay.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - A New Family

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Commander Lalor's Quarters

Timeline: MD 1

Liselle stood outside the doors for a long time. Long enough that she had to nod with a pleasant smile to several officers that passed her by in the corridor. Long enough that she saw the same officer come back down the corridor again at one point, returning from whatever duty he had once left for in the first place.

Qwyyn gently clapped her hands in front of her nose several times and took a breath. "Like a band-aid, Qwyyn," she coached herself. "The longer you draw this out..."

She took the plunge. Leaning to one side, she reached out a hand and stabbed a finger at the door chime to Commander Phoenix Lalor's quarters.

The door opened and Phoenix stood there in casual jeans and a sweater but bare foot. "Hey!" She said brightly. "Come on in!" She stepped back and waved her friend into the quarters.

Liselle felt a wave of relief wash over her. She wasn't sure how Phoenix would react to her new role, whether the demands of command would require her to distance herself from her friends aboard the Elysium. Qwyyn decided to tread carefully until she was able to get a good read on the situation. "Thanks," Liselle said. Upon stepping through the doorway, her eyes went wide. "Gods. This place is enormous!"

Phoenix laughed. "I know. I think they never considered that some people do not need so much space." She led her into the lounge room. "Have a seat, do you want a drink?" Phoenix asked.

Liselle planted herself on the couch, placing her hands in her lap. She squeezed her eyes shut as she forced out her next words while she still had the courage to say them. "I'm thinking of leaving the Elysium," she blurted. She opened her eyes again slowly, unsure of how Phoenix would react.

Phoenix sat down opposite her friend. "I can understand that." she said softly to her. "Things have not been easy."

Qwyyn couldn't help but smile despite the tear she felt welling in the corner of her eye. And then she looked down at her hands and the smile faded. "We lost so many people, Phoenix. I - I can't believe -- I mean we've lost people before. But so many -- so many lives -- they're all just gone," she said. "I look at the news feeds and I -- those poor families. And we were all family. You, and me, and Miran, and Ephraim, Ian, and the Admiral, and...everyone...but they've left us behind. Or maybe we left them behind."

Phoenix reached out and touched Liselle's hands. "Ephriam and Ian, they had to go. They could not stay. Too many memories and they wanted a fresh start. I can understand that. I was expecting a transfer and the ship to be mothballed. Liselle, we are family. But you have to do what is right for you. If you want a transfer, a fresh start, I can speak with the admiral and get you a great posting somewhere." Phoenix did not bring up Sharr, it was a raw wound on her as well.

Liselle considered her friend's words. If Phoenix was willing to help her move forward with some kind of transfer...no. It wasn't possible. 'Liselle, we are family' she had said. And, frankly, she was the only family that Liselle had. Or, more accurately, she was the only family Liselle wanted. "Phoenix," Liselle said, "I honestly can't picture my life without you in it." She winced at the awkwardness of her own words. "Besides, what other captain would put up with my eccentric personality?" she joked.

Phoenix smiled at that. "I think you would be surprised Liselle, as to who could handle you. Though I will say, without you at Helm, I doubt this ship would get where it needs to go. And I personally think you leaving would be bad for all of us."

Liselle smiled as she closed her hand affectionately over Phoenix's own. She lifted her gaze, looked at her friend, directly in her silver-blue eyes. "I'm proud of you, you know. What you've accomplished is nothing short of incredible, how you've been able to press on and keep the Elyisum going is...well, we all appreciate it, even if we don't always remember to say so." Qwyyn then tilted her head to a nearby replicator. "I think I'm ready for that drink. And you're going to have one with me," she announced with a teasing smile.

She was not long in bringing back two drinks, deep V-shaped glasses that held purple-blue Trillian cocktails. Liselle bit her lip as she handed a glass to Phoenix. "Brace your taste buds. My people aren't exactly known for their cuisine," she apologized. The Trill's cheeks flushed red with self-aware embarrassment then. "You know, I've been dying to tell you this for a while, but there really hasn't been an opportunity..." Qwyyn began. She took a breath, stared down into her glass. "You remember Udal? Our Tactical officer? Well....he and I...well...we...we kind of slept together. It was actually...my first time...and he sort of transferred off of the Elysium at the very first opportunity." Liselle couldn't help but giggle as she heard her own words aloud. She brought her glass up to her mouth to cover her smiling lips with the hand that grasped her drink. "I knew I wasn't going to be exactly amazing my first time, but I didn't think I would be THAT bad," she said, again breaking into giggles at her own joke.

Phoenix smiled at that. "I had heard about you two from the bartender. Did you enjoy it?"

"Honestly? I really did. It felt good to let my hair down. To go a little crazy and stop worrying about everything. Be in the moment. Just have fun. You know? I've never had anyone lust after me like that before. Sure it was fueled by way too much alcohol, but in the moment it was...nice. As for the sex itself -- " she shrugged " -- meh. I think I could not ever do that again and be perfectly happy."

Phoenix sat back and grinned. "Oh then you didn't do it right." she said brightly. "Maybe he was not a good match in bed for you. Though being an Orion, I find that hard to believe. They are apparently brilliant at sexual pleasure."

Liselle tilted her head in thought. "Well, to be fair to him, we were ungodly drunk. It's a miracle we managed to find our way to a bed at all. It's a shame I won't get the opportunity for further research into the subject. Though, I've also heard it said that many joined Trill simply don't enjoy physical intimacy. I might be doomed!" She threw up her hands in mock exasperation while still wearing a smile.

A thought struck Qwyyn just then. She realized now that she felt like a whole different person than the woman who had stood nervously outside in the corridor just a few minutes ago. "Thanks for making me feel better, Phoenix," she said genuinely. She took another drink. "Okay! Enough about me! Any Orions in your life lately? Or is the ship's Commander sentenced to a lifetime of reports and books?"

"Uh..." Her cheeks went red. "I had a night with one of your team a few weeks ago... haven't seen him since. Been too busy."

The Trill lowered her glass. Slowly. The smile faded. "One of my team?"

Phoenix ducked her head. "Liselle, don't overreact please. It was something we have been dancing around for months. And it has not changed anything. He obviously has not been wanting more than that one night cause I have not seen him since." She paused "It was Ken Waters" Phoenix admitted. "Please don't freak out." She reached out a hand to Liselle.

Qwyyn took a step back. Nearly a year ago, Ken had been involved in a prank that had reflected poorly on her entire department as word quickly spread via the rumor mill. The subject of that prank: Phoenix Lalor. Liselle had taken the responsibility of her misbehaving officers personally. The whole situation had deeply bothered for a very long time. She had nearly demanded that Ken be kicked off the Elysium over it. And now Phoenix was sleeping with him? She looked to either side of her, searching for somewhere to set her glass. It took a moment to realize that the table right beside her was more than adequate. "I - I - Ken. But. When?" She shook her head even as she stammered. "Why would you? Ken? Phoenix. How could you? I - I - don't -- why would you do this?"

"Woah." Phoenix stood now as well. "Liselle, You just admitted to sleeping with the chief of Tactical. What? I am not allowed a bit of fun? I have desires and needs as well you know and what Ken and I did was to mutual benefit. It was while we were in the Andromeda Galaxy, shortly after Magnolia's demise." She looked at her trill friend. "Liselle, I am sorry I slept with someone from your department." She paused. "Why does that bother you? Other than the fact that he is in your department... was he trying to sleep with you as well?"

"No!" Qwyyn insisted. "I mean...I don't think so? You know I can't read people! Besides, that's not the point! The point is..." Qwyyn hesitated. "I don't know what my point is," she admitted. She swallowed. Her hands began to shake and she clasped them together in front of her. "Is this serious? Are you two serious? Tell me this isn't serious."

Phoenix studied her friend closely and stepped up to her. "I don't think it is serious. He has not contacted me recently. Why, would it upset you if it was?"

"Yes," Qwyyn said softly. Her eyes found the floor. She knew what she wanted to say, but she didn't know how to make the words come out. She was torn, there were the words she wanted to say to Phoenix, and there were the words she knew she had to say to Phoenix. She swallowed. She knew the answer to her dilema, there was no real decision to make here. Before anything else, before any other secrets would be revealed, Phoenix had to know about Ken.

"Phoenix," Qwyyn said. "I don't know how to exactly tell you this, but as your friend I think it's important that I don't keep it from you." She sighed with the weight of what she was about to tell her. "I overheard that -- well -- that -- Ken -- Ken and Feyth have been seeing each other. Intimately. I've heard it's been going on for several weeks now." During the same time that Ken was seeing you, apparently, Liselle thought to herself. "It wasn't any of my business so I just shrugged it off. If I had known there was anything going on between you two, I would have told you right away."

She wasn't sure how Phoenix would react. She and Feyth had butted heads several times now. In fact, it surprised Qwyyn that Phoenix hadn't put her off the Elysium at the last starbase. And now, one of them was 'the other woman.'

Phoenix had to stop herself from stepping back. Her arms dropped to her side, and her hands clenched. "Oh... oh well I guess he has made his choice. Guess one night was enough to get me out of his system." She forced the words from her throat.

Damn the Triad, she would NOT cry over this. She had extended her friendship and then her body to the man and he had never come back to her, no she would not cry. Just because he had the bad taste to sleep with that bullying cow.

She turned abruptly and walked back to the couch where she had been sitting and sat down, her facade barely holding.

Qwyyn was stunned. Never in their years together could she remember seeing Phoenix drop her guard. Not like this. There were things that Liselle wanted to say to her; she wanted to be supportive. But she froze. She didn't know how to handle this. She didn't trust herself not to make things worse. Should she offer to leave? Should she sit next to Phoenix and put her arms around her? Instead, she laced her fingers together and looked down at them. "I'm sorry, Phoenix. I probably should have found a better way to tell you."

"Well it explains things." Phoenix said softly. "No thank you for being honest about it Liselle, You are better than him. He couldn't even tell me himself."

Liselle felt anger welling up inside her. She had warned her officers that she would not tolerate any more bad publicity in her department. And now this. And with Phoenix no less. Again. She cleared her throat. "Do you want me to give you some time alone?"

Phoenix shook her head. "No I think I will have that drink now though." She stood, her shoulders straight. "Besides I am not about to let them win." She looked at Liselle. "I am not going to ask for their removal either Liselle. That is showing them both I care. And frankly I don't."

Liselle set her jaw. She wasn't sure what she was going to do with the pair of them. But it would be something. She had warned them. Vota Prell! She had warned them not to cause any more problems! Without any more second guessing, Liselle reached out to hug her friend. She might not have any idea what to say, but she could at least push past her own inhibitions and give in to her instinct to be supportive.

Phoenix normally would not have accepted hugs from anyone. But this one she allowed. She returned the hug and let herself relax this once. "Thanks for being a friend Lise"

The Trill kept the embrace short. She held Phoenix's forearms as she stepped back. "Hey. We're family, remember?"

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Starry, Starry Night

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Stellar Cartography

Timeline: MD1

A pensive look crossed the face of Dyhei as she exited another of the departments labs, her sixth of the day, she turned and started down the corridor, having spent most of the morning trying to get familer with her little section of the ship, section of the crew and the details of the new role she found herself in. It was high time see felt to get back towards more familiar ground, which of course meant a trip to Stellar Cartography.

Dyhei had made sure to book her time in the room, a little out of habit but also some notion of not wanting to be seen as doing what she wanted when she wanted.

As she approached the room and reached for the door control, the 'projector in use' indicator was little she noted, pausing she shrugged to herself and keyed the door open. She herself had gotten carried away and run over her alloted time more then a few times in past, it was not something she was going to make an issue of. Stepping into the room Dyhei smiled at the projected images that filled it masking the rooms boundaries and making the space seem well just like space. As her eye settled on the still figure lay on the floor, worry gripped her and she moved quickly to the person.

Liselle sat up in surprise at the sound of approaching footsteps. Her hands went to hair, adjusting the stray whisps that had spilled out from her bun as she lay upon the floor. "My apologies I must have fallen asl -- That is, I think I dropped...I was looking for my..." Qwyyn's voice fell away as no reasonable excuse would come to her. "Oh, forget it." She sighed and let back drop back to the floor so that she once again faced the infinity of stars above.

Slowing to a halt beside one of the consoles, as the person in question sat up who looked like the Helm officer from the bridge earlier that day, a hint of smile came to her as Dyhei identified with the moment of trying to find a reason for being somewhere. "Well the room was free, and I try not to be the picky sort." Dyhei said kindly leaning against the railing that defined the walkway and console area. "After all t s why were here mostly, to see the stars." Pushing away and dropping into a crouch a short way from Qwyyn and started to sit, "Mind if I join you?"

Liselle couldn't help but smile. She patted the deck next to her playfully. "Please do."

Qwyyn didn't know this Lieutenant, but already she knew that she liked her. With her own future in Starfleet still not certain, and with everything that had happened this last year, The Trill didn't have the strength nor the desire to put on a facade with her colleagues. To hell with fitting in. At least for now. Right now she felt like being herself -- being damn weird. Weird was comfortable. She needed to feel comfortable otherwise she was afraid she'd lose her mind. Qwyyn's eyes reflected the stars that spilled out in infinity all around them. "This is what unifies all the races in the galaxy," she said pointing up. "The desire to look up. I wonder why that is."

Laying down carefully, Dyhei settled down, her back adjusting to the hard deck, and looked up. Ever the astronomer she found herself trying to guess which patch of the galaxy had been selected, her musing was interrupted by the statement of her stargazing partner. It felt like it required a responce and Dyhei lapsed into silence as pondered. “It broadens our horizons, fills us with a sense of wonder or fear, depending on culture or background, I guess.” Another stretch of silence passed “What do you see when you look up?” She asked back.

"Fear," Qwyyn said softly. She felt a sob catch in her throat and she swallowed it. She carefully folded her hands over her chest, not taking her eyes from the millions of worlds glistening above them. "There was a time when I wanted nothing else out of life than to explore this. All of this. I wanted to go to the ends of existence and back again. See it all...." her words fell away. "But after the things we've been through -- after coming close to death so many times -- after losing so many of our crew. Admiral Sharr..." She blew out a sigh. "Sorry. I've been better about keeping the crazy under control lately. But I nearly had a panic attack getting out into open space again." She gestured to the projection above. "You just happened to catch me in the middle of some exposure therapy."

Listening carefully it wasn't to difficult to pick up on the fear and hurt emotions in the woman's voice, Dyhei felt a need to provide some sort of comfort but at the same time wanted to be sure to not make light of her experiences, it would also be an idea to get a name at some point soon as well. “Hey crazies allowed, especially when your talking about loss, if I may try and make it constructive crazy, the destructive sort tends to end badly.” Pulling herself up and resting on her elbows Dyhei carried on. "If it helps most of my guys, still getting used to that, seems to have the same sort of fond memories of the guy. As well as the same sort of feelings about what's next, fear, confusion, and in some cases definite anger, to be expected after losses.” She avoided the word ‘normal’ in that context, nothing about loss was normal as she well knew. “What would you say was the Admirals good points, what made him a good leader? It might help and I'm indirectly serving him, I guess, it'd be nice to know the type of person he was."

The Trill choked out a laugh at the question. "Oh, the Admiral? He was an absolute asshole. Pig-headed. Stubborn. Arrogant," she said defiantly. She fell quiet as she thought on him more. She could almost see him standing there with them. "Passionate. Courageous. Loyal. Sexy as hell." She smiled, lost in memory now. Liselle mimicked Dyhei's posture, bringing herself up to lean on her elbows. "I'm not one to follow a crowd, but there was just something about him. He made me feel safe, like everything was under control and he wouldn't possibly let anything bad happen to me, to any of us. He was a good man." She shifted her weight to one elbow then so that she could extend an open hand to the woman next to her. "Liselle Qwyyn," she said warmly. "Chief of Flight Control." She didn't know who this woman was that had stumbled upon her, but she was glad she had, and now Liselle wanted to know her. Somehow, despite all of Liselle's expectations to the contrary, this young woman had managed to pull the Trill away from her little pity party.

Dyhei allowed herself a slight giggle as the woman described the man in question, and to be honest quite liked what she heard so was a little sorry that it she would not get to meet him, ”Sounds like a decent person, but just happened to run a starship. Yeah I waneed to know the whys now, funny how that happens the when you get to know all little but about the person.” She responded with a smile as she reached for the extended hand, finally having a name to put to the person, she shook the hand firmly and then introduced herself. “Dyhei Liducca, Chief of Science, pleased to meet you Liselle."

"A pleasure to meet you," the Trill said genuinely. She had never been good at reading people, but she knew when she liked someone, and she liked Dyhei. The woman displayed an insight and sensitivity that Qwyyn envied and appreciated. "Don't listen to my rambling. You will like the Elysium, I promise. There are a lot of good people aboard. Before you know it, you'll come to think of everyone here as family," she said. She tilted her head. "How did you end up here, anyway? Transfer or request?"

"Oh Transfer an unexpected one at that, up to a few weeks ago I ran the stellar cartography bay on a Steamrunner-Class and now I'm heading up a department on one of the biggest ship in the fleet........ so brand new chief here." Dyhei started off, the comments of the type of people she now shared this new home playing on her mind in a positive way, but her thoughts soon turned especially to the room", I guess we sort of come full circle, I came in here for a touch of familarlity. That said it's not that familer, I've been used to a lab with a full wall holo display. But this.....two deck space........three sixty degree.......fully holographic." She beamed with enthusiasm and large and warm smile creeping on her face as she put into words the cutting edge tools that she now had to full indulge her life's passion. "Speaking of rambling."

Qwyyn laughed. "You'll never have to apologize to me for --"

The doors to Stellar Cartography opened at that moment and a young Ensign walked into the room, stopping abruptly as he noticed the two officers on the ground. "Sirs?" he said uneasily. He turned back to the door for a moment before looking at them again. "Sorry, sirs. I must have messed up the room booking."

Qwyyn held up her hand to him. "I'm sure you booked it admirably, Ensign. The room is all yours. Help me up, would you?"

He dutifully obliged, and once she was on her feet she turned to offer Dyhei a hand as well. "I guess our little picnic is over."

Grabbing onto the offered hand, Dyhei was soon on her feet again, "For now at least, malbeit we should make the next one in deflector control, it's quite spacious I hear or maybe just the lounge." She added with a smile, flicking her eyes to the Ensign. "I'd like to stay and observe, if you don't mind."

"Of course, Lieutenant. I'll just get set up." He responded, clearly still a little flustered. Moving stiffly past the pair.

Turning back to her new found friend, "Until next time Liselle."

"I look forward to it."

And with that Liselle set out down the corridors of the Elysium. It was time to bite the bullet and talk to the ship's commander. It was a conversation she had been dreading, but this little chance meeting made it seem all the more possible to get through.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - "Plot thickens

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Avalon & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor & Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Cargo Bay 2

Timeline: MD 2 0949

They had been at warp 5 for nearly 24 hours when an Ensign raced into the Chief of Security's office. He braced his hands on his knees "Lieutenant Commander Holmes!" He gasped out.

Lia spun round to see what was wrong, "Ensign, take your time. And draw breath, you'll find it easier to speak".

"We need you in cargo Bay 2..." He panted. "We have locked it down as per procedure...You might want to get the Commanders as well!"

Holding her hands up Lia moved towards the Ensign, "I will be doing nothing, until you explain to me what is happening. Now Ensign, slowly tell me the event which is causing all this commotion?" As she spoke, she opened a comm link to the X.O. Thus allowing him to hear the Ensign himself.

"One of the crates we got from Earth Space Dock. It... opened on its own. In it is another box and it has a sign on it. And an electrical field around it in the crate"

To say her interest was pricked was an understatement, "All right Ensign, continue. What does the sign say? And have you scanned the electrical field to locate any weak points?" Lia now decided it was time to inform both the Captain and XO, "Holmes to the bridge, inform senior staff that they are required in Cargo Bay 2 stat! Then inform the rest of the security staff to make their way there also, I will meet them there". Turning to the Ensign she spoke softly, "Ok Ensign, shall we go to Cargo Bay 2 now? And you can show me the problem, personally". She then followed the Ensign out.

Phoenix was on the bridge with Gary when the call came out. She frowned and then cancelled the call for the rest of the senior staff. She looked at Gary. "Lets see what it is first." She said in a low voice as they headed to the turbolift.

The Ensign led Holmes into the sealed off cargo bay.

There in the centre of it was a large crate. All four sides of it were splayed out and the obvious lid was beside it. In the centre of the crate was a box of about a meter squared and it was surrounded by a highly charged electrical field. The sign mentioned by the ensign was clearly visible. It was made of what looked to be cardboard and had been written on in old fashioned black ink.

It read "FOR CO and XO eyes Only."

No names were mentioned.

Lia looked at the box, then she looked back at the Ensign, "Why didn't you report this to the XO? I can see no security problem at this time, and the XO may indeed know what this is all about". She scanned the field with a tricorder, "From this scan, that field is very highly charged electric. But I can't scan beyond it to check the box, that is strange but not a security risk". Lia now headed for the exit, keep a level one security field on this location for now. and await the arrival of the CO and the XO".

They arrived a short time later. "Commander Holmes" Phoenix said calmly. "What's the situation?"

As Phoenix spoke with Holmes, Gary was studying the box.From all outward signs it was an ordinary box, one that was protected by an electric field. "Mighty peculiar." He muttered as he continued to study the box. "I wonder why it's addressed so vaguely? Surely, the information to who the CO and XO is readily available."

Running a more detailed scan with the internal sensors, Lia hadn't seen the Captain and XO arrive. "Oh sorry Captain, I was running a detailed sensor sweep of our little package there. And the fact I can't penetrate that field with internal sensors, now has me more than a bit concerned. Other than that, I can find no reason why its here. I've checked the loading docket but its just a vague as the label, no one seems to know where this package comes from". She glanced at the XO, "Commander, do you have anything we should know about regarding this package?"

Gary looked up from his study of the box and addressed the Security Chief, his face a mask. "Afraid not Commander. I'm just as much in the dark as you and the Captain are. Sorry."

Lia heard the Commanders reply, but something didn't ring true. Her first thought was the XO was lying, but then why would he? What would he gain by doing so? Her S.F.I. Mind set kicked in, perhaps he was telling the truth. But not the WHOLE truth, just enough needed to douse any doubt that might linger. Again she returned to the question why? Perhaps this needed further investigation, for now she would remain quiet and keep things to herself. No need to get the Captain involved just yet, and perhaps giving the Commander the benefit of the doubt for now. Lia now faced the Captain, "I will keep digging Captain, and let you know what I find. I'll keep you up to speed also Commander, if you wish?" She then turned and left for her office, and a quiet word with an old colleague.

Gary caught the faint tone of doubt in Holmes voice and he resented it. He didn't have to prove his loyalty, he had the scars to show for it! Along with the lost years. So biting back any angry retort that might spring from his lips, he replied politely if not a little frostily. "I'd appreciate that, though I don't want to put you out. You appear to have your hands full."

Phoenix had also heard the tone of voice but chose like Gary to ignore it. She stepped to his side. "Lt. Commander Holmes, Clear the bay please. You may remain but everyone else out."

When the Captain made her statement about clearing the bay, Lia knew she had stepped on someones toes. But whos? The fact that the pair now stood together could be interpreted in many ways, could both of them be "in" it together? This was getting complicated, was she chasing ghosts? Was this all just smoke and mirrors, maybe her thoughts that her Director had poisoned the water before she got here was correct after all. She now did as she was ordered, "Ok people, lets clear this area. Ensign put a level 3 force field on that door, no one, and I mean no one, enters here. Or they answer to me". Turning to the Captain she spoke, "Bay clear, please continue".

"Avalon, please turn off all surveillance in this cargo bay. I will record the happenings on my PADD."

[Does that include your own vocal surveillance Commander?] The AI responded.

"Yes." She replied.

She looked at Gary and Aurelia. "I have survelence on me 24/7 due to some old claims of sexual extortion." in way of explanation. "I really should discontinue it but its habit now."

Gary said nothing about Phoenix's revelation. He would stay quiet and let her continue at her own pace.

This was unexpected, thought Lia. That put the Commander right back in the picture, but why would the Captain place her First Officer in that position? Keeping quiet she waited for the Captain to continue.

Once the bay was cleared Phoenix studied the box and electrical field. "Your scans picked up nothing commander?" she queried calmly as she began to walk around the box.

Nodding Lia answered, "I scanned it with a tricorder and got nothing. So I used the ships internal sensors, but again I got nothing. All I can say with certainty, is its an electric field. As to the box its self, a complete mystery Captain".

"I have never seen anything like it before." Lalor admitted. "That said, there are a ton of things on this ship that have happened that no one has seen before."

"To be blunt Captain, the whole thing is starting to get suspicious". Lia replied. "Without further investigation, we may have to return to earth so S.F.I. Can take the case over".

The Commanding officer shook her head. "I'd hate to do that. I want that Commodore in our brig before we return to earth." she muttered.

Phoenix waved a hand near the field and it fluctuated like a power drain occurred.

Lia winced, "I'd be careful in doing that Captain, my last scan noted the field was at 50,000 volts. That could prove fatal".

"Did it drain when my hand come near it?" Phoenix asked. "Can you scan as I do it again?"

Walking back to the main controls Lia set the ships sensors on the field, "When ever your ready Captain" she said.

"Commence Scan Commander" And so saying, Phoenix waved her hand right next to the field.

Gary watched as Phoenix readied herself to move her hand near the field. A random thought fluttered through his mind, how would the field react if at all if he did the same thing?

The scan started to run, Lia watched as things began to happen. "Captain, I'd move your hand if I were you. The field is becoming unstable". There followed a sudden bright flash, Lia spun around. "CAPTAIN!!!!" She yelled.

The Field was gone. And Phoenix was slowly standing from a crouch. She winced as she glanced at the security chief. "Guess I now know what its like to be on the other end of that cry." She muttered and looked at Gary. "You both ok?" she asked.

"I'm fine the question is are you okay? Do you need to go to Sickbay and have the CMO check you over?" Gary questioned.

Standing ashen faced Lia now spoke, "Due respect Captain, but that was a bloody stupid thing to do. Are you ok? Shall I get the Doctor to report here?" she found herself shaking, the thought that she might have killed a Star Fleet Captain suddenly dawned on her.

"I would also like to say that was a dangerous thing to do. We could have erected a force field around the box and taken the field down remotely." He continued.

The way the XO sounded made Lia stop and look at him, "Commander, how can you remain so calm? I nearly killed our Captain, somehow dangerous doesn't really cover that. I wish I could stay as focused, please excuse my outburst earlier".

Gary favored Lia with a look. "I've plenty of time to learn how to remain focused. " He said simply. "As for almost killing the Captain, yes you should have known better but so should she." He said looking over at Phoenix. "Hopefully you both learn from this incident."

Phoenix simply sat on the deck and began to grin and laugh. "Sorry" she got out once she could stop herself. "I am just having flashbacks to when I used to loose my cool at the Admiral when he did dumb shit. Must be the Center chair that makes people take stupid risks." she hung her head between her knees and took a breath. "Ok.. I won't be so stupid again I promise." She pushed herself to her feet. "Shall we see what is in the box?"

"A promise I shall hold you to Captain." Gary replied not unkindly. "As lets open the box, my curiosity is peeked."

Phoenix waved to the box "Commander Holmes, if you please, please scan the box now."

Grabbing a tricorder Lia scanned the box, "Well after all that security, its just a standard packing case. Wonders never cease".

Phoenix nodded and walked to the box and lifted the lid. She felt rather than saw Gary and Aurelia move to flank her as she did so.

Gary looked into the box and saw the PaDD. "A data PaDD? Who puts a PaDD in a box and then surrounds it in a high electrical field?" He questioned.

Phoenix frowned. "Someone playing games" She said with a touch of irateness in her voice. She was not pleased with this turn of events.

"A game or someone testing us?" He offered.

Phoenix shrugged. "Can't say I like either option very much."

"Get no argument from me Captain.Shall we see what's on the PaDD that it needed all this security?"

Stepping back slightly, Lia was still looking into the box. "Is that a piece of paper I see stuck to the bottom of the box?" She didn't retrieve it as this clearly involved only the Captain and XO, but who still used paper these days?

Phoenix looked at Gary. "I'll get the paper. You take the PADD." She suggested already reaching in. Her culture used paper.

Gary nodded and as he did, he reached for the PaDD. He was decidedly curious over this whole affair. He wanted to know who was behind this and why they would go through such unusual steps.

His fingers grazed and then closed over the PaDD, straightening he handed the PaDD to Phoenix. "lets get some answers." He told her

Turning for the door Lia spoke as she left, "I'll wait outside, that will leave you to sort out what the hell is going on. It does state on the box CO & XO after all, and now the field is down I really don't think you need me here". She stopped at the door, "With your permission Captain?"

"Of course Commander." Phoenix said as she unfolded the piece of paper. It read "Commanders, this is a recording of past offenses. Do not try to recognize those within it you cannot. But they are still on board. Enjoy." Phoenix swapped the note for the PADD but she didn't turn it on.

"Captain?" Gary asked as Lia had left and Phoenix read what was written, "Care to enlighten me?" As he looked to the PaDD she still clutched in her hand.

"Past offences... It could be the rumours about a group of mutineers was true." She said softly.

"Then we need to be very careful on n who we can trust. As this is a very serious matter," Gary replied decisively. "I also think we need to take a look as to what is stored on that PaDD.

"Indeed." She took a breath. "We'll take it to my office and lock the place down. And watch it there."

"Then lets get do it." He answered. firmly. "So we know just what we're dealing with."

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! – Discussion

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Captain's Ready Room

Timeline: MD 2 10:30

Phoenix entered her office, Gary behind her, and once they were inside she sealed the doors and locked it with her clearance code.

Then she placed the PADD on the desk.

Then she turned it on and pressed play.

The PADD displayed the events of several months ago, though the faces and ranks were blurred, the image was pretty clear.

=/\=Various NPCS- 6 all told Teal (Human) NPC, Vulcan NPC-(Yellow Collar), Red (Bajoran) NPC, Grey (Human) NPC, Blue (Betaoid) NPC, Bolian (Red Collar) NPC

“The commander is dead.” Whispered one in a teal shirt. “They just brought her body into the Morgue”

The gathered group sighed and shook their heads “Impulsive” Said one, the lone Vulcan of the group, the yellow of his uniform glowing slightly in the darkness.

“True but... do you think he knows if it is all of us?” another commented, red suited this time with Bajoran nose ridges, softly looking around the small dark area where they had gathered.

“Magnolia would never have betrayed us. She might have sown enough seeds to make him doubt others in the command chain.” The Teal uniformed officer replied.

“Which could be good or bad depending.” Muttered one in Blue.

“So who moves up next?” This voice was from the lone Bolian, the red of his collar contrasting against the blue of his skin.

“Lalor is the second officer.” The Vulcan replied. “Suitable, but not one who will betray the admiral. For all her bluff and bluster, her concerns are for the ship, the crew and him. She will not betray him.”

“And she never trusted Magnolia” The man in grey by the wall watching their entry and exit points, pointed out.

The rest looked at him. “What do you mean?” Asked the Blue collared Betazoid.

“Its well known in the intelligence team, that Phoenix Lalor, doesn’t trust many people. And the Executive Officer, has always made it clear that after the Borg debacle, and the way Magnolia arrived that her trust was still to be earned. As far as we know, this opinion was never changed and more so seeing Magnolia made herself scarce while we were all planet side. She really should have worked closely with Lalor, we could have foisted the suspicion onto her.”

“So she will not be on our side.” The teal officer mused. “We need to get rid of her then.”

“No.” The Vulcan replied. “That would cause too much instability if we kill them both off.”

“Agreed” The Grey replied. “And once we get rid of the Admiral, Lalor will have to deal with the crew and face the choices... we can influence her choices”

The Bajoran sighed. “Her highness is going to order more to the admiral’s security detail when she learns about Magnolia’s death.”

The Bolian nodded. “You can all but put money on that. Good thing, the Trill is so pedantic at the moment, my department is going to be too busy for the Trill to be any use to the Erisan Princess in this matter.”

The Bajoran nodded. “Being in Security means that there will be a roster I am sure, that will affect us all to look after the admiral, but there are not many who would side with us in the department.”

The man in grey held up a hand. “Debate is pointless until we know what the admiral knows. We should wait and see before planning the next move, he lives for now. Go back to your stations or quarters. I will send word when it is safe to meet again.”

With nods and quiet goodbyes, they left, either by main door or by hatch. Soon the man in grey was alone all by himself.

He pulled out a padd and made notes and then left it in a concealed wall hatch. He then left the room like a silent wraith. He had done what he could to protect the chain of command. Now all he had to do was hold back the knives a bit longer.

=/\=

Gary watched as the video ended. For several seconds he said nothing then all at once he blurted "This is appalling! Mutineers on a starship! It's too bad we couldn't see their features clearly but at least we know the departments they work in. I do wonder however who the man in grey is and what his objectives are in all this."

"He might be the SI agent Holmes mentioned." Phoenix said with a frown. "Erisian princess. Huh. have never claimed it. And I can tell you that Helm officer if Liselle knows who it is.. is going to be chop liver." She looked at Gary. "Someone left this here for a reason. They want these people found."

"Sounds reasonable.Too bad we don't know who he is for sure. You're right he could be the SI agent." Gary shook his head, "The problem with all this,we're not sure who we can trust. It appears these mutineers are a small group but they could just be waiting for some instance to make a move."

"So... do we tell the senior staff? or keep this to us and pretend nothing happened?" She asked wondering what his opinion was.

Gary didn't answer immediately, he thought on the question and all the ramifications that came with it. "No we can't pretend nothing happened. This is a serious matter. However we can't go off the deep end and suspect everyone. The key is who do we trust? You know the senior staff better than I do." He admitted, "But my own opinion is Holmes I think you can trust. So is Liselle by your own admission.I think the CEO is trustworthy as well as he wasn't a part of the crew when all this first started. The others I'm not sure. Not because of mistrust but do we need to tell the CMO, the Counselor and the Science Chief?"

"Tate, the Chief counselor was once chief counselor on the Elysium under Sharr." Phoenix said softly. "Though I highly doubt she would have been approached by Magnolia." She went to the small lounge area and picked up a small box. "This box contains all the data we have on Magnolia. And to be honest, its not much."

Placing it on the desk she continued. "She arrived during an encounter with the Borg, beamed right onto the bridge during a 'training simulation' in which the ships AI could not differentiate between fake and real Borg and we lost the Admiral to the Borg. Thankfully he was not assimilated during that event. I think that's when I lost my temper the first time with him over his stupidity. Magnolia was XO for all of 5 minutes when she had to take command of the Elysium under those circumstances. After that I was promoted to second officer but even then I had very little to do with her. She basically kept to herself. I don't know much about her, and when we were stranded in the Andromeda Galaxy she played least in sight and I ran the camp and did the paperwork and reports. I was executive officer in fact but not in title. I had half resolved to resign during those months while she did nothing and I had to do everything. Sharr was no help either but now I know he was making a deal for our return" She paused. "Her death was not a shock. What was a shock was the declaration that she had tried to kill Sharr and that others were involved. I didn't think she had any friends."

Phoenix looked at him. "I don't like keeping secrets. But in this case we may need to. You, Holmes most likely and I should be all that knows."

Gary saw the pain in er eyes at the realization that she/they would heave to keep this from some of the senior staff. "I understand how you feel about keeping secrets but for now it's the best option available until we can get more information. We can always tell the others once we know more but for now the less that know the better."

"Agreed." Phoenix replied. "I will let you brief Holmes. Show her the recording. I'd like her security teams to do patrols of the ship. She can borrow Marines if she needs the extra manpower." She paused. "It is no secret of where we are going. If these are still here, they may try to stop the ship from getting there. Engineering will need to be searched and secured."

"I'll brief Holmes, bring her up to speed and remind her to keep all this to herself. Do you wish to have a standing security detail in Engineering , to be on the safe side?" He paused for a moment, looked into Phoenix's eyes. "We'll get to the bottom of this and take all these mutineers into custody. You have my word Captain. I"m with you all the way." He told her with unbridled conviction.

She gave him a smile. "Thank you commander I appreciate that more than you know. And yes to the Engineering idea. Lets not give these miscreants any openings"

"Agreed. and it's Gary remember?" He said with a smile of his own.

Phoenix laughed. "And its Phoenix."

"Touche'." He grinned "and yes I know."

Gorn Medical.

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Sthilg

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Sick Bay

Timeline: Current

Another day had started down in the medical bay and the medical staff we're busy undergoing the tasks required of a busy starship. The gorn chief sipped his coffee as he looked at his to-do list. Another large amount of crew needing medical scans starting with the security chief. Tapping his combadge the doctor opened up a channel. =^= Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmesss please report to medbay you have a ssscedualed medical ssscan.=^= He said politely, but firmly.

Lia heard the hail, but didn't recognise the voice. oO Doesn't sound human Oo she thought, still I better report got more than enough trouble as it is.

It wasn't long before the doors opened that caught the gorns attention. Smiling at the human he walked over to offer his hand. " Commander Aurelia Holmesss? Nice to meet you."

The shock of seeing a Gorn heading for her gave Lia more than a scare. "Oh, ah, um. Your a Gorn, who knew? Sorry Lieutenant, not expecting this. Hello, how are you?" Taking a deep breath she smiled back at Lieutenant Sthilg, "I really am sorry, but I've never met your kind before. I've only ever heard or read about your people, I never thought I'd actually meet a Gorn. Why on earth are you here? I wasn't aware that your people served on Federation ships, and as a Doctor our physiology must cause you no end of problems". Lia decided to stop talking, as even she knew she was now digging herself a rather deep hole.

The gorn gave a polite smile having been through this plenty of times. " Quite an unusssual officer aren't I. It'sss a long ssstory on how I got here I'll be happy to explain, but I like to talk while I work. If you would follow me we can get your ssscan done. "

Lia took a deep breath, "Ok Lieutenant, I'm all ears. You talk. I'll listen. That way my mind will be occupied while you work, I am sorry but to be honest. You scare me a little, old habits I suppose".

Sthilg grinned slightly. Despite his year's in the fleet, it seemed he could never shake his people's reputation. Pulling out a padd he began asking the necessary questions. " Any new injuriesss ssssince your last medical checkup?" He asked in the polite manner of a doctor.

Shaking her head Lia replied, "No Doc, not even a strain". Her mind went back to that last medical, it had been in the department. Now a year later here she was on a ship, who'd have thought it.

" Very good. Let's just sssee if everything's okay on the inssside." The gorn said as he activated the computer and starting the scan. " Is everything going sssmoothly with sssecurity?" The doctor asked politely.

Taking a sideways glance at the CMO, Lia shook her head. "You know what Doc, I somehow feel that the section needs a bit of a boot up the rear. Don't get me wrong, the guys are ok. But their getting complacent, more reactive than proactive. If you know what I mean, so a little bit of house cleaning maybe in order". She stopped and looked at the CMO, "Anyway doc, your new here also. How are you finding the ship? You getting many customers like me?"

" I had two of your department in earlier. Nasssty accident while sssword fighting. Asss for the ssship she is looking like she will be an an excellent assignment." He replied grinning slightly.

Lia didn't like the sound of that, "Two of my lot? Right Doc, as soon as your finished I think a little word maybe in order. Will this take much longer?" She asked with a slightly serious tone to her voice.

" Jussst a moment longer." The gorn said as the scan finished and he saved it onto the commander's profile. Handing the human a small data crystal he smiled. " You copy of your ssscan and i declare you fit for duty. "

Trying to hide her smile, Lia took the data crystal. "Thanks Doc, but please don't take this the wrong way. I hope we don't meet professionally to soon, but other wise I hope to see you around". Then with a wide grin she continued, "For my first Gorn, you were a fine ambassador for your kind". Then with a wave of her hand she left for the bridge.

LTCMDR Aurelia Holmes's Personal Log - Lia Suprised

The following is a personal log from LTCMDR Aurelia Holmes.

"Computer record personal log. Well now I've scored a first, I've had a medical from a Gorn!!! I'd never even seen one before today, they are big. But our Doctor is real gentle, and so polite. They are gonna have to re-write the history books, I can't see him ever being cruel and killing someone. The only bad bit of news is I had to discipline two of my staff, they were sword fighting. Ok I sword fight, I totally get that. But these two numpties took each other on, and the pair got injured. Not cool, so now their doing extra duties to cool their heels.

I still haven't been told what was on that damn PaDD we found in cargo bay 2, both the Captain and XO are playing it close to their chests. But one of my people seemed to think it must be about this missing Commodore, why else would it mention only those two? Which when you think about it, makes a lot of sense. I've also started reorganising the Security department, that didn't go down to well with some people but what the hell.

Right I'll call it quits on this log for now, computer save log and place on my personal file".

Inside the captain.

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Sthilg & Commander Phoenix Lalor

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Medbay.

Timeline:

After another long day the day shift of the medbay slowly drifted off. The chief still sat in his office filling the reports from the day and looking at the one last appointment he had to do. Tapping his comabadge he spoke clearly and politely. =^= Commander Phoenix you have a scheduled medical checkup can you make it?" =^=

Phoenix looked up from her paperwork. "Of course doctor. I will be there shortly."

The gorn smiled as he took a sip from his herbal tea. One last job and he could get some rest.

Not five minutes later the CO entered the medical bay. "Lieutenant Sthilg, I am here as requested." she called out.

The gorn weakly smiled as he pulled up a pad and beckoned the captain to follow him. " Glad you can make it. Sssince your lassst medical checkup have you received any additional injuries?" He asked prepared to tick off the checklist.

"yes" She replied. "I have additional injuries to my back. Deep cuts and such. They have since healed."

" Noted. " The gorn said as he ticked off the list as they reached one of the biobeds. Indicated for her to lie down he walked to it's foot and activate the console. " If you don't mind me inuring commander isss everything running well on the ssship?" The gorn doctor asked politely.

"So far. No brawls and no fist fights." Phoenix smiled.

" Very good." The gorn said as he switched on the computer. Looking at the captain's scans it was clear she'd been through a lot. " Are any of your old injuries giving you any pain?" He asked with a tone of concern and empathy in his voice.

"No, I know about the scars and they can be removed I just have not chosen to have them removed." Phoenix replied. "I leave them there as a reminder of the past."

" I know the feeling. The federationsss doctors have sssaid they could clone new limbs for me and replace my sssynthetic parts, but i've to much history with them." the gorn replied as he kept his eyes on the computer.

"Its good to keep history with oneself as it makes sure you understand the present." Phoenix said. "So aside from my injuries, am I healthy doctor?"

" Looksss like it. A little ssshort in a few vitaminsss, but it not near danger levelsss." The gorn replied with a polite grin on his reptilian face.

"Thank you. I will make sure I fix those levels then." Phoenix replied. "is there anything else?"

" Unlesss there anything you want me to take a look at you're declared fit for duty." The doctor replied handing her a copy of the scan.

Phoenix sat up. "Thank you doctor." She said with a smile.

The Doctor and the Engineer

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Sthilg

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location:

Timeline:

" And don't let me sssee you taking more than three of thessse at a time. " the gorn said to the young ensign who nodded before leaving the sickbay. Giving a worried growl to himself he made a mental note to check on her later in the day. His attention turned to the door as it opened again. He'd never seent he species stepping through the door, but he guessed it was the ships chief engineer.

" Lieutenant Matiasss Grronkil isss it?"The gorn said as politely as he could.

"Yes, Doctor," said Matias. "I have come for my checkup." He looked up at the reptilian Gorn doctor. In his own galaxy, there weren't any like him, at least not in the sector where he lived. This one could easily pick him up and break him in two, if he wasn't a doctor. And he had heard of the unwritten regulation, never cross the CMO, and always show up when expected, so he had wasted no time in meeting the appointment on time.

" Very good. If you'll follow me we'll get this over with. " The gorn said leading the way to one fo the bio beds. " I hope you won't mind me having to check with the computer during this I've never done a medical check up on one of your ssspecies before."

"I understand, Doctor," said Matias, and he handed the gorn a chip as he followed him to the bio bed. "This contains my medical records and information about my species from the physician I was under back in the other galaxy. I've been at work translating it and it should make your job easier." He realized that the Gorn was just as curious about his own species as Matias was curious about the Doctor's. "This is a first for both of us."

" Very good." The doctor said as he picked up a padd before pausing for a second. Putting the ad back in his pocket he began typing on the console. " Jussst have to open up a new folder for you're sscansss and we can get underway." He said before with a grin pushing the button to activate the medical scanner. " Ssso how are you doing in the fleet? It must be hard being so far from home."

"I am doing surprisingly well," said Matias. "It is hard, but adjusting has been easier than I thought, as I had nothing to live for there after I lost my mate. I do miss my friends, but I left with my alpha's blessing."

" I know how it feelsss to loossse everyone. Jussst keep going forward and let their memoriesss aid you." The gorn replied as he looked at the computer console having to watch two screens at once.

Matias smiled. He had found a friend which he hadn't had since he left his home.

" Well I can't give you full clearance until me and the computer have a good look over your ssscan, but everything look'sss good." The gorn said as the scan finished. The gorn saved the scan and copied it onto a data crystal which he handed to the lieutenant. " Your copy of the scan and your declaration that your fit for duty."

"Thank you, Doctor. I'll be in Engineering if you need me. And...we should get together some time when we're off duty. We've got a lot in common and a lot to talk about."

" Indeed. I'll sssee you later." The gorn doctor replied as another crewman stepped through the door. Never a quite moment he thought as he began his work anew.

LTCMDR Gary Taylor's Personal Log – Secrets

The following is a personal log from LTCMDR Gary Taylor.

Gary sat in the dark. He was in his quarters. It was quiet and peaceful and he found solace in that. For the past hour, he had sat in the dark going over the meeting he had earlier with Phoenix. He finally spoke breaking the quiet. "Computer open personal log and lock under my security code when done recording."

"Acknowledged. You may begin recording." Came the monotone reply of the computer.

"I've just come from a meeting with the Captain. I won't go into the particulars here. Only to say the topic was deeply disturbing and one which action will be needed to deal with. However for now all we can do is wait. I'll set up a meeting with Lt.Commander Holmes and inform her of the meeting as well as the topic, then proceed accordingly."

"End log."

"Log entry is now locked ." The computer informed him.

In the dark, no one could see him nod.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Talking with the bosses

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca & Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location:

Timeline: MD1

IC

A number of emotion rushed around the head of Dyhei as she made her way to the middle of the ship, it was time for her first sit down meeting with this ships Command element. Given the basic briefing given at launch she was not sure if the permissions she was after would be granted, but ultimately talking was the only way to dispel that uncertainty she told herself, Also it was a good an opportunity as every to state exactly what type of officer they were getting. Pausing outside the door for a few moments she rehearsed her introduction and opening request.

She strode in trying to project an aire of confidence and then started with "Hi" great start. "Lieutenant Liducca, I have an appointment to discuss the continuation approvals." at that point the officer registered vocally that the commanding officer was also present, "Oh hell you’re both here, well I guess I get a unified and definite decision." She offered the PADD across to the xo then to the co switched back before finally holding it for the Co, passing her own reference PADD to the xo. As you can see they are small experiments which I feel will not impact on the ships resources enough to screw sorry skew our main objectives. " She lapsed into silence at this point, contemplating that that was probably zero to correct reporting procedure and one to letting them know what they were in for. "It's worth noting that besides these only two others were logged. Most of the department have tagged for data gathering and analysis duties, given scientists are a self centered bunch that's unusual, this commodore person must have gotten under there skin."

Gary took the offered PaDD and listened to the accompanying statement. When the Science Chief had finished he looked to her and asked, "Well, that's all well and good. However what exactly are these 'small' experiments you're already running?"

Dyhei cleared her throat and then started with a brief overview of the two items starting with the one she assumed would require the most work. "Well, I'm not running either myself, but the first as you can see is from the Bio-Chemistry section, they are attempting to combine the amino acids of a plant from Vulcan with a plant from Tellar, hopefully producing a Hardy and high oxygenation plant for use after terafoming projects." She paused at this point before coming to the point she assumed was the reason she needed upper approvalley. "There is an amount of modification needed to some of the existing experimentation equipment. They're gonna need a couple, of engineers for a day. Then the experiment period is six days after which h there should be a conclusion."

Gary glanced down at the PaDD and then back to Dyhei, "What sort of modification? Will the modification pose any sort of danger to those working on said experiment?" "The modifications are needed to increases the number of variables they can play with to find the right balance, mostly temperature and pressure. As long as they abide by the guidelines, minimal danger to the persons involved." Dyhei answers confidently.

GAry looks over to Phoenix, "Sounds okay to me. I don't see any inherent danger here to the crew or ship."

"Agreed" Phoenix said softly.

"The second is for a pair of Astrophysicists, they are running a data corolation and comparison, with four other sites. Two of them are in other fleets an one is a station that has a lot of projects with high security clearance needed, but this project isn't one of those." Dyhei carried on, rattling off the second item, she could feel herself starting to want to get the meeting over with, it appeared her unease when in front of command officers was going to take a while to get over. "There is one more thing I need clarifying?"

Gary looked to the science chief, "By all means Lieutenant please clarify as I for one still don't know what this experiment is correlating or comparing."

"Supernovae. According to data, four happened with in a few minutes but in completely different sectors. It's the sort of thing that gets attention, mine included, but department to run mission to follow so that's that......" She stated simply, almost as if she was trying to prove she could get to the point when needed.

"I see." Gary replied, not really sure if he did but he couldn't fault the science chief for her enthusiasm. He shot a sideways glance to Phoenix. "Sounds okay to me. I don't see any problem with it."

"To be honest, Science has always confused me. I guess it is to do with my upbringing." Phoenix said. "If you believe you can do the experiments without issue and without there being a danger to the ship, Lieutenant, I will take you at your word."

Dyhei jumped in quickly with reassurance, this was one area of her life and jib that she actually made sure to follow the rules . "As regards the experiments, protocol and procedures are being followed I'll make sure of it, so I don't anticipate any dangers." Pausing for a moment she possessions her first question, one that truth be told had been niggling at her since she stepped aboard. "As regards the main mission objectives, given its a manhunt I'm not expecting the blue collars to be first picks, more likely to step in and assist, but I would like to know what expected of the department?"

Phoenix smiled. "For this mission, I am afraid there wont be much for Science to do. But the next it is my hope that we will get some exploration to do and science will have a lot to do. I think your teams ideas will keep them busy though."

"Fair enough, we'll do our thing, but ill have a few people i can throw your way if you need."She offered, before adding "Granted most people here seem quite determine and skilled, i guess you'll have the guy in short order. but no things certain out here so ill be prepared."

Gary listened to the exchange between Phoenix and Dyhei. He was glad the science chief was so enthusiastic about her work. It made for a better work environment for all in her department.

"Thank you for your time, Commander's." Dyhei said having said all she need Ed and having the clarification she needed, she figured it was time to leave. Turned neatly and strolled out of the room.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - "Confrontation and Events

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Senior Chief Petty Officer Ken Waters & Chief Petty Officer Railli Feyth

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Main Mess Hall

Timeline: MD2 15h00

Phoenix had an idea. So she called Liselle to the main mess hall and saved a 4 seat table. She knew Ken and Feyth often came to the main mess hall. So she took her seat and waited for Liselle to arrive.

When the Trill did arrive it took no time to zone in on her. She saw the Erisan's mischevious grin from across the room, and Qwyyn returned a coy smile of her own. "And just what are you up to?" she asked.

Phoenix gave a mock innocent look. "Who me? I am here to play some mind games."

Qwyyn watched as Phoenix's eyes darted to a point at the far end of the room. The Trill followed her line of sight to see two familiar figures: Ken Waters and Feyth Railli. She couldn't make out what the pair were saying, but she watched as Feyth playfully smiled at Ken while she jabbed at his ribs with an outstretched finger. He grabbed his side and held up his other hand for mercy, even as the two of them laughed.

It was then that Qwyyn realized the significance of the two empty seats at their table. She could barely contain the amused expression that threatened her features. She tossed a look to Phoenix. "You know you're evil, right?" she teased.

"Me? Oh of course I am." Phoenix replied softly. "Care to invite the happy couple over?"

She couldn't help her smile now. "It would be my pleasure."

She sought out the pair and soon her eyes locked with Feyth's own. The Bajoran flight control officer gave Qwyyn a polite nod, a polite smile -- until she noticed that Phoenix Lalor was sitting next to her. Then, the smile was gone, and her eyes darkened. Standing at her side, Ken's reaction could not have been any different. He scowled slightly as he saw Qwyyn (she'd made a point of being extra hard on him in his work life lately), but his eyes positively brightened as he noticed Phoenix.

Qwyyn waved the pair over.

Ken and Feyth hesitated, turning to one another instead. It was clear from Feyth's body language that she absolutely did not want to sit at a table with the ship's commander. Finally the argument ended, and Ken started toward the table, practically dragging Feyth along with him.

He has no idea that Phoenix and I know everything, Qwyyn thought. You poor soul.

"Commander," Waters said, and his attention turned to Lalor, "and Captain. Do you mind if we join you?"

"No, of course not" Phoenix gave a smile. "How are you both going? Did you get time to catch up with family during the time off?"

Ken coughed uncomfortably. Next to him, Feyth narrowed her eyes. "I don't have any living family, sir," she said, speaking the last word pointedly.

Qwyyn raised a questioning brow at her, giving her a look of warning.

Feyth chewed the inside of her cheek, her emotions clearly bubbling up to darken her face. But when she saw Ken take his chair, she did the same. Despite her dislike for Phoenix, at least the Bajoran knew well enough not to turn her back on the ship's Captain.

Ken took the chair directly across from Phoenix, he placed his hands on the table in front of him. "What about you?" he asked. "I imagine everybody in Starfleet wants a piece of you these last few days."

He was looking at Phoenix as he spoke, so Qwyyn said nothing.

Phoenix nodded and shrugged. "I had to do the rounds of those we losts' family as well as the brass. I did get time to look into houses on Earth. Miran wants a place where we can grab down time instead of hotels and such." She had been speaking generally. She was puzzled though. Either Ken didn't see anything wrong with sleeping with her and Feyth at the same time.. or ... were the rumours wrong. She gave Ken a warm smile. "I didn't get time for friends and such though."

Little did Phoenix know, but Qwyyn was thinking the very same thing she was. Ken did not seem particularly flustered by the situation. She knew that Ken and Feyth had grown up together on a Bajoran colony. Perhaps the Bajora took a more lackadaisical attitude to monogamy? She didn't know. Maybe the rumors around the department were completely unfounded -- Liselle would be horrified if she learned that she had alarmed Phoenix over nothing -- but that rumor about these two was so widely spread at Flight Control...

She decided it was time to drop a little blood in the water. "I have to say that it's nice to see you two getting along so well in your off hours," Qwyyn said of Phoenix and Ken. "Considering everything that happened with that flight assessment last year, well I suppose a full year of silence was probably the right way to heal the wounds from that stupid prank."

Ken coughed again, placing a fist over his mouth. "Yes, well..." he hesitated. He gave Phoenix a look. "I mean we did get a chance to talk again when we were planet side." Was he unsure of how much she wanted to reveal, or was he begging her not to mention their encounter a few weeks ago?

Feyth's ears perked up at this.

"Oh?" Qwyyn said. "So you've been getting along even better than I had hoped."

Feyth leveled a dangerous, questioning look at Ken.

But the human ignored her, looking down at his hands folded on the table instead. He wasn't smiling any more. In fact, it appeared that all of his energy was very deliberately spent in avoiding Feyth's attention.

"Ah... " Phoenix gave a half smile. "Now now Liselle, one does not kiss and tell"

Feyth was nearly fuming now. From the way that the muscles worked beneath her cheeks, Liselle was worried that the Bajoran would shatter her teeth she had clenched them so tight. It was clear she wanted to say something, but it was also clear that she didn't trust herself to speak without putting her career in jeopardy.

For his part, Ken was trying to laugh Phoenix's comment aside. It was not a very convincing performance. "You know it's funny how different things are now that Sharr -- ow!" he yelped. The human spun on Feyth. "That hurt!"

Qwyyn could see that she had grabbed his leg in her fingernails beneath the table. "Can we speak for a moment?" Feyth asked him. "Please." The last word was spoken with venom.

Ken was flustered, clearly uncertain of what to do next. He looked to Phoenix. "Uh, well, actually, ummm...Captain, I was hoping that I might speak to you for a quick moment first, I know you don't have a lot of free time."

Qwyyn almost fell sorry for the man. Almost. But not quite.

"Oh? Is this where you tell me that what happened between us was a mistake Senior Chief?" Phoenix asked curiously, "I have already heard that you have moved on. With the Chief Petty Officer here." Phoenix was through beating around the bush.

"Wait, I can explain," Waters began, but he was cut off by the sound of Feyth pushing her chair back. Qwyyn turned to see her jumping up from the table. Feyth pointedly did not look at Ken as she spun on her heel and marched from the room.

Liselle could clearly see that the Bajoran girl was trying to keep herself from bursting into tears until she was out of the room. So, the Trill thought, she really hadn't known about Phoenix and Ken. Liselle rose up from the table as well. She gave Phoenix's shoulder a comforting squeeze. "I have to check on her," she said softly. "Good luck with this." She took a moment to strike Waters with a glare of rage before she chased after Feyth.

Left alone with Phoenix, Ken had the look of a scolded child. He swallowed as he looked his former lover in the eye. "Can I just have a moment to explain?"

"Sure, though I doubt Feyth will give you that time." Phoenix sat back and crossed her arms, her blue eyes icy as she studied the man she had let into her bed.

"I don't know what's going on here, but I promise you that there is nothing between Feyth and me," he said. He held his hands out in front of him, as though a magic force would be propelled from his palms to keep Phoenix pinned in her seat. "I know that you and Feyth have never seen eye to eye. And so I didn't tell her about us. I was working up to it. Hell, I wasn't even sure if you wanted anyone to know about us. So I didn't say anything. I started pursuing you when you were the CHOPS officer. Next thing I know, you're the Captain of the entire ship!" He pressed his hands together and set the edge of his fingers against the table. "I like you. I've always liked you. You know that. And I didn't want to overstep my bounds with you, or make things difficult for you as the head of this crew. I wanted you to have your space while you figure out all these changes in your professional life. Penelope, you have to believe me."

"Do I?" She asked curiously. "Its all over the ship that you and Feyth are seeing each other. In that way." She paused "I told Liselle. That is how I found out about this.I didn't choose to be captain Ken. It was given to me on Sharr's recommendation. I had very little choice if I wanted this crew to stay together. And while you wanted me to have my space, did it occur to you that I might want support?"

"Of course it did!" he said. He realized then that he was being inappropriately loud with the ship's Captain in a public setting. He immediately lowered his eyes. "Sorry," he said. He stretched his hands across the table, as if reaching for her. "Phoenix, don't punish me for trying to do the right thing. I wanted to see you again, and I think you know that. But the last thing I wanted was to set off a fire storm of rumors, and for those rumors to put you in a bad position. Honestly, I was half-worried that you might get the idea that keeping me on your ship wasn't going to work out. So...maybe I was even trying to avoid you for a bit until you could see that I wasn't going to cause you any career problems."

How little he knew her truly. "So your solution was to flirt with Feyth so people thought you two were together. And not to tell her that you had slept with a woman she hates?" she was glad most had left the room when they had spotted the group at the table, and seen how tense things were.

"Listen to me, Feyth and I are very close. I won't deny that. We've been through a lot together. But I am telling you that there is nothing going on behind your back. The fact that I didn't tell her about you? Yes, that's on me. But it's because I didn't want to rub it in her face. It's not exactly easy to break news of an 'enemy' romance to your closest friend. Maybe I made a bad call on that, but I certainly wouldn't call that a betrayal. I respect the chance you took in letting me through those shields of yours. So whatever rumors you've been hearing are exactly that: rumors. I don't know why the hell they started, or how the hell they spread so far, but no one has bothered to tell ME any of these juicy details," he said. "All I can do is ask that you think back on the past we've had together, and whether or not I've earned your trust. Because either you do trust me, or we had better just call this whole thing off right now. I know what I want to do. So at this point it's up to you what happens next."

She stood abruptly. How had this turned into her fault? She looked at him in the eye. Her blue eyes glittered with something akin to pain and anger. "I didn't do anything wrong here Ken. You stayed away from me. I think I will take some time to think on this. You have bridges to mend."

He stood up to face her. He studied her face for a moment, as though this may very well be the last time he would stand so close to her. "Then I guess you've made your choice," he said. "You can keep the earrings I made. I sincerely hope that someday they remind you of what those shields of yours keep costing you."

"And you don't listen" She replied softly. "I have not made a choice. I merely said I would take time to think." Her hands clenched and she moved to walk around the table past him. "I don't sleep with just anyone Mr Waters." She said in a low tone as she drew level with him. "I only do with people I trust."

Ken swallowed. He wanted to grab her by the shoulders, to hold her there and keep her from leaving him. Instead, he kept his hands at his sides and said what he truly felt. "I will give you all the time in the world. And I will apologize to you for as long as you'll listen, for me not being there for you. But only if you can look me in the eye right now and promise me that this time you're taking for yourself is not your way of waiting for the results of an investigation into these rumors."

She looked him straight in the eye and said "It is for me." she said softly. "I am not going to do a witch hunt Ken. If I was that type of person, I could have transferred you both off the ship to different postings."

He nodded. "When you've made your decision -- " he reached down to give her hand a brief squeeze " -- you know where to find me."

And with that, Ken Waters turned and left the ship's captain standing at the table. Alone.

Phoenix watched him go and then went the other way.

=/\=

The Company of a Stranger

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: XO's Office

Timeline: Current

Gary sat at his desk, his fingers tapping on his desk. He knew what needed to be done. He just hoped for the Captain's sake and his, he was making the right choice.

Tapping his combadge, he spoke =^= Commander Holmes, please report to my office immediately.=^=

Sitting back in his chair, he whispered, :Now,it begins."

The call from the XO came as a bit of surprise, =^="Holmes here, on my way Commander"=^=. As she made her way to the XO's office, her mind turned over just what he might want. Could it be that damn PaDD? She arrived at the office door, pressing the button she waited to be invited in.

Hearing the chime on his door buzz and knowing it was probably Holmes, Gary forced himself to relax before uttering "Enter." He sat back and waited for the Security/Tactical chief to enter, so he could brief her on what the PaDD contained and come up with a course of action to flush out the mutineers.

Lia entered the office and stood opposite the XO, "Commander Holmes reporting as ordered". She glanced around the office quickly, there wasn't much to show just who used the office. oO This guy doesn't want people to know him unless he lets them Oo, she thought.

Gary gestured to the nearest chair, "Thank you for coming so promptly. Please have a seat, if you'd like something to drink before I start, help yourself."

Sitting down Lia politely refused the drink, "I'm fine thank you, but I am slightly confused as to what you want me for". She kept all thoughts about the strange PaDD to herself, Lia had already decided to let the XO take the lead. That way she wouldn't look stupid, as she had done earlier.

"Yes, you probably are. I apologize for that." He answered. He was silent for several seconds before speaking again. "What I'm about to tell you only one other person knows, that being the Captain. Also what I tell you stays here, so it will only be the three of us who know. Other members of the senior staff are not to know." He paused to gauge her reaction to what he was saying. "It pertains to the PaDD we found in the cargo bay."

Nodding Lia gave herself a mental pat on the back, "Due respect Commander, but that sounds a little odd to me. To keep the other senior staff in the dark over the PaDD, is to invite trouble at a later date. We may require their assistance, or even their knowledge". She knew by putting that thought out there, the Commander would have to explain exactly why it was so important to keep things quiet.

"I'm well aware of how it appears Commander as is the Captain. We feel this is the best way to proceed. Now may I go on? Once I'm done, I'm sure you'll agree and see the reason for secrecy."

Taking a deep breath Lia nodded, "Please carry on Commander, I was only attempting to get some depth as to what was being discussed". the Commander sounded guarded, never a good sign.

"Thank you. Now as you know the PaDD was addressed to both the Captain and myself. However what you didn't know was the PaDD contained a disturbing message." He paused before going on, " It seems there is a cell of mutineers on the Elysium and the former XO was part of this cell."

Lia sat thinking, "I can't see why a former XO would propagate mutiny, to what ends would it serve that individual?" She also thought about the cell the Commander mentioned, "But the fact there's a cell on board prepared to carry out that mutiny, puts a whole different spin on it. Do we have any suspects?" Her S.F.I. nose was twitching again, it seemed she couldn't get away from plots and schemes.

"In a matter of speaking we do have suspects. The PaDD contained a recorder of the mutineers, Unfortunately none of their features were in the light, so we can't I.D. them that way. However a bit of good news..We do know what departments they work in and here's something you will take great interest in. Two of them work in security."

That made Lia sit up, "There are two in Security? That will put a brake on any chance of catching them unawares, my 2ic knows where I am. If he's one of the two?" She stood up and looked straight at the XO, "Can you get me a copy of the record? I have an idea, but it maybe backfire if the wrong people get wind of it". She turned towards the door, "With you permission Commander, I have work to do. Unless there is more I need to know?"

"Sit down Commander." Gary answered sternly. "You can see the record but only here in my office. There is more to know, As of now you are to station a security detail in Engineering." He leaned forward his elbows resting atop the desk. "Just what is this idea you have? If I may be so bold to inquire."

Turning back to face Taylor, Lia shook her head. "Oh no way Commander, what I got planned stays with me. As for a Security detail in engineering, do you think that's wise? I mean two of my merry men are in on this mutiny, you got any idea which two?" She sat back down, "Now show me that recording, or to use an obnoxious comment. I'm outta here!" Lia knew she was pushing the envelope, but somehow she knew Taylor wouldn't be to keen to stop her. He wanted this solved just as much as she did, and he wasn't about to loose his only ally on the ship. "Next move is yours Commander". Lia said crossing her legs and arms.

Gary glared at her, his eyes like twin phasers burning into her very soul. "I am prepared to show you the recording right here and now however only when I hear your idea. You scratch my back, I scratch yours. it's in both our self interests. That's how it goes.As for the security detail, yes both the Captain and I think it's a wise idea..... at this time. Take some of your junior personnel and assign them the detail. I doubt they are part of the mutineers.

"Oh your good Commander", Lia said slowly. "But the thing is, one XO caused this. How do I know another XO won't carry it out? You see my dilemma? I don't know you, and I certainly don't know if you can be trusted, no disrespect intended. So I'm sorry but my plan stays with me, the fewer people who know the less it can go wrong". Somehow she had to make Taylor understand, she couldn't let him know because it could backfire on all of them. Lia stood back up, "I guess this is gonna go against me but, you keep your little recording. You keep the information to your self, I guess that's what XO's do. Me! I'm gonna go do some good old fashioned questioning, if that blows this whole thing to bits. Sorry, but I can only use what I got. I'm ex S.F.I. We don't involve other people, that way they don't get hurt". She turned to leave, her mind in a turmoil. The one person she thought would understand, didn't.

Gary gave her a disbelieving look and finally shrugged his shoulders. "Have it your way Commander. If there's one person on this ship you can trust it's me. Like yourself, I'm new to the ship. So, I am new to this whole mutiny scenario. So frankly no, I don't see your dilemma. Also you'll do nothing without briefing myself and the Captain. To use your own words you could be part of the mutineers and I've tipped my hand. So you see my dilemma." He gave her a humorless smile.

Lia now spoke quietly, "How can I trust you? You block me at every turn, you fail to understand when I say I can't share information. Then you preach to me about trust, honestly Commander I wouldn't trust you if my life depended on it". She slowly turned around, "As for being `new to mutiny', join the club. I've just spent seven years dealing with this kind of stuff, I didn't survive that long by joining any damn mutiny. And you can relay to the Captain that this vessel requires a new Security Officer, because I'm damned if you or anyone is going to shackle me where security is concerned". She moved towards Taylor, "I can do my job Commander, if I'm allowed. And the only thing you tipped, was your lack of understanding". She stood only inches away from Taylor, "I will be in my cabin if required, or on duty on the bridge. No doubt court martial proceedings will be forthcoming". She now waited for Taylors response.

Gary said nothing. he slowly leaned back in his chair. He made no comment about his own time , running and carrying out classified assignments that Holmes could only dream about. He simply looked at her,his face an unreadable mask. Then slowly he brought his hands together and clapped. His voice calm and even but hard as steel. "Oh that is good Commander. Just the right touch of righteous indignation. Bravo! Then you try to turn the tables on me and saddle me with a guilt trip. Won't work. As for a court martial, no, sorry not in the cards for you. Nor will you seek or get a transfer. You will be stuck here, doing your job, reporting to me and the Captain. Do I make myself clear Commander?"

"Clear as crystal Commander, just make sure your enlarged head can fit through the door. I don't do guilt trips, I leave those to the idiots that require them". She headed for the door, "We're approaching Risa, I'm needed on the bridge. I suggest you take over as Security Officer Commander, you seem to think you can do the job better than I can". On reaching the door she spoke again, "Mutiny is a bloody messy thing, I hope you've made peace with what ever deity you worship". She then left for the bridge.

"Nope. That's your job. Mine is making sure you do it right. Oh, I have a long time ago. I hope you have." He quipped darkly as he watched Holmes head for the door.

Outside in the corridor Lia kicked the wall, "Bloody stupid man!!" she shouted at the door. She then composed herself and headed for the bridge.

Gary sighed at hearing Holmes's muffled shout and shook his head, "Well that could have gone better."

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - All blue collers here

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Sthilg & Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location:

Timeline:

Dyhei sighed and frowned as she tipped a PaDD towards her, eyes flashing over the data contained and then flicking back to the display terminal in front of her, she was still fighting against the concept that admin afternoons wouldn't likely be a daily rather than weekly thing.

Down in the ships medical bay the gorn doctor was doing his usual stock taking of the day. Noting his wrist scanner was indicating he had an appointment due he opened a coms to the officer in question. Dyhei Liducca the ship's science officer.

" Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca this is the ssship's chief medical officer you have an appointment in fifteen munitesss can you make it?" He asked politely. "I remember, and yes I can make it. I'll just finish up here and be along." She responded with a smile as she steetched in her chair, more than thankful of the interuption and distraction. But given her lack of familiarity with the ship, she left straight away, giving plenty of time for the odd wrong turn which happened.

Dyhei strolled into medical, catching sight of the gorn, she assumed had called before, either that or someone doing an impression of a gorn. "Well aren't you a bit unexpected, as I'm sure you've heard off everyone who's come thought that door. To be honest I'm glad you called, I had forgotten and was drowning in paperwork, which I'm in no rush to get back to by the way. Take all the time you need."

" I'm used to by now. " The gorn replied with a grin as eh walked over to one of the bio beds and beckoned the science officer to follow him. Pulling a pad from his pocket he turned to look at the hybrid. " Any injuries sssince the last medicle ssscan?" he asked politely.

Following the large Gorn towards a bed, Dyhei pushed herself onto it, sat on the long sides she smirked that her eye level was just above her stomach area. She hesitated to answer, expecting the usual first question regarding her past history. "Er...not unless you count a stubbed toe, misjudged a step Durrington the afternoon of shore leave it managed to squeeze in while transferring here."

" Not unlessss it broke." the gorn said as he stopped at one of the bio beds and indicated her to lie down on it as he pocketed the padd.

She shook her head in response before lying down as requested, giving her shoulders a slight wiggle to relax herself and then stared at the ceiling, but her interest was piqued and she couldn't help herself. "My turn, blue collars to blue collar what speciality do you go with?"

" Epidemiologissstsss, neurosssurgery, perinatology and trauma sssurgery. " The gorn replied beaming. Noting the look on the hybrids face he smiled and replied. " I'm over four hundred years old ssso i learned quite a lot from my time in the galaxy."

The surprise of the number of areas her new physician reeled of soon gave wayou to a look of approval. "You put them to good use nothing more noble and almost nothing more satisfying than seeking to understand and to help, although do you mind if I ask what perinatology involves? It's the only one in that list I haven't come across?" She asked, that genuine curiosity rising to the surface again.

" The care of the mother and fetus prior to, during, and ssshortly after pregnancy. What about yourself what are your ssspecialtysss? " The gorn responded as he looked at the scan. The hybrid had clear signs of alcohol addiction in her system though it was slowly healing.

Dyhei made a low 'huh' sound at the explanation, she was familiar with the field just under a different name. She smirked a little at the retuning question. "Stellar Cartography, the universe around us is a beautiful thing, even more so when you understand it fully, I think anyway." She sighed and lapsed to silence for a moment or two. "That's all I've had time for so far, don't forget I've not quite had thirty years yet, and they haven't always been.........as focused as some, as your scans are no doubt telling you. How's my liver and lower organs fairing these days?"

" The universe is truly a beautiful thing as for your organsss they are ssslowly recovering, but they ssstill ssshow sssigns of former alcohol poisssoning. Do you want to talk about it?" The doctor responded in as gentler voice as he could manage as he looked up from his computer.

Dyhei tilted her head and adjusted herself too look at him while still lay down, the smile lesser somewhat and a Sean's of sadness was evident in her features. "I was young and stupid..........and hurting." She started, this was familer ground but this doctor was crossing it in a different way, yet old ground was still sore ground, but she'd promised to herself, no more dodging the subject. "I was a functioning alcoholic, I believe the term is. My partner and child were killed aboard ship.......almost seven years ago. I didn't handle it at all, tried to avoid any feeling with drink, flirtatious behavior, and a few other barely legal things." She paused and looked away, back at the ceiling for a moment or two, then to the Gorn. "But I got help, detox clinic, counselling, sponsor, a lifestyle program, which I try to stick to, had a couple of slips, but I'll keep trying." The last part she stated firmly.

" From your file and your actions you've been very brave. Jussst remember if you feel yourssself ssstumbling remember people are there to help you. Sssome of us know what it likes to lossse loved ones. " The gorn responded in an oddly calming voice one that no one expected to come out of his kind.

"I know, i know, sometimes you get wrapped up in trying to be normal or whatever passes for that, you know." She responded, supprised at the type of care and understanding she was getting but welcoming that supprise. "Then I end up running to you guys, but its encouraging to be talking to someone whose had those feelings and managed them D octor.......you got a name?"

" Sssthilg. " Was the gorns single word reply as he smiled back at her.

"Sthilg. Strong but not harsh, nice. Good to meet you." Dyhei said kindly, glad to put a name to the face and the nature, with a sense that her ongoing recovery was now covered she, made sure to check she hadn't overlooked anything else . "Anything else I need to watch, body wise?"

" A few of you vitamin levelsss are ssslightly low, but nothing ssseriousss. Keep up the regular checksss and keep doing what your doing." The big lizard said with a warmign smile.

Sitting up and swivelling to one side with a positive and cheery demeanor. "That sounds like something I can do, thanks for the check up, and for being attentive. Means a lot." Pushing off the bed, she stood next to the gigantic Gorn, and agained smirked at the almost comical difference in size. "See you in about three months then."

" Sssee you in three mouthsss if the galaxy should be ssso curiousss." The gorn replied with a smile on his face before turning to the other patients in sickbay. Always more work to do.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - A Working Relationship

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Sthilg

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Lt. Cmdr. Qwyyn's Quarters

Timeline: MD 2

" And call me if there any sssign of trouble." The doctor called back over his shoulder to the Andorian who was taking over sickbay for the B shift. He had faith in all of his staff, but he couldn't help but worry. He was a doctor if he didn't worry about his staff he'd have to hand in his credentials.

Remembering the small vial in his pocket he remembers he had one last stop to make before he could enjoy his off hours. It didn't take him long to reach the senior officers quarters and one in particular. Pressing the alarm he yawned before speaking. " Commander Liselle Qwyyn It's doctor Sthilg i have sssomething for you."

"Coming!" the comm panel at her door relayed her voice from within her corridors. A few heartbeats later the doors slid open to reveal the Chief of Flight Control. Liselle was wrapped in a towel just under her arm pits that fell to behind her knees. Her hair was frizzy and dripping, her skin still glistening wet from a bath. "Oh, Doctor! How good to see you!" she looked up at the strands of hair that matted her forehead and she gave him a wry smile. "Sorry. I've never been a fan of the sonic. Water bathing is relaxing, but adds a whole drying cycle. Would you like to come in?"

Ducking slightly the gorn stepped through the door allowing his frame into the room. " No need to apologissse can't use the sssonic ssshower either. messsss up my oldest cybernetics. " The gorn said politely as he reached into his pocket and produced a small phial of blue paste. " Zonilan Adynogel. Old recipe from the almanack. Discontinued due to more effective medicinesss coming into fleet production, but it won't classsh with your other painkillersss".

She followed him back into her quarters and the door closed behind them. She took the gel from him and held it up to the light. "Doctor, this is very kind of you!" she said. She closed her hand around the vial and turned back to him. "But you didn't have to come all the way here just to give me this."

" Well if I didn't give it to you I'd have probably forgotten about it and accidently sssat on it. " the gorn replied with the best cheerful smile he could give.

Qwyyn laughed at that. "In that case I'm very grateful to you for coming over," she said, and she inclined her head. With her eyes inline with her toes beneath her, she suddenly realized her state of dress. She was old enough as a joined Trill and as a former doctor to not share in the typical Federation fear of a nude body, and she imagined that the Gorn probably felt very much the same, but she thought it best to err on the side of professional courtesy. She was a member of the senior staff after all. She tossed her thumb to the adjoining bathroom. "I should probably change," she apologized.

" Go right ahead." The gorn replied turning his head out of professional courtesy. He would be lying to himself if he didn't find the lieutenant attractive having developed a fondness for most humanoid women over his many years. They were less likely to try and eat him like females of his own species would occasionally do. Putting the thoughts out of his head he brought up something more relevant. " I heard back from trill. The Sssymbiosis Institute aren't to happy that i'm working with a joined trill again." He said from his position.

She rolled her eyes at that, and breathed an annoyed scoff. "Trill society at large has been very slow to modernize. It amazes me how xenophobic we can be, particularly with the symbionts. My previous host urged the other members of the Symbiosis Board to explore the medical diversity available to us throughout the Federation." She shook her head and started off to the bathroom to change. "Melbin rarely won those arguments, of course," she called out from the adjoining room. "But think of all the symbionts that we might have been able to save if we weren't so damn stubborn!" She poked her head out of the doorway then, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Wait. The Institute is unhappy...again? You've had a run in with them before? Was it because of Zesh?"

" Yes, they were very angry that we'd performed sssurgery on they sssymbiote without their doctorsss presssent. Don't know why. I'm a highly qualified sssureon and doctor Sssolek was one of the most qualified ssspecialists of parasitology in the federation. " The gorn replied snorting to himself at the ignorance of the institute.

Qwyyn stepped back into the room. "Doctor, your knowledge and experience could prove to be invaluable to my people. My file has detailed records of Ian's work. If you and I can continue to build on that, we could save a lot of joined Trill lives. She looked down then and realized that in her excitement she'd forgotten that she was still in the middle of changing. She gave an embarrassed shrug and hopped back into the bathroom. "There's probably not going to be a lot of help from the Symbiosis Institute, but it's not like they're going to assign me my own dedicated Trill doctor. Plus, you're *already* doing the research work as part of my continuing treatment, so why not do as much good as we can with the opportunity my particular case brings?"

The gorn thought for a second before responding. " Indeed we could easssily do that. I have plenty of contactsss that could help as well. Maybe we could find out why they don't want aliens sssnooping around with the sssymbiotes."

"We've always been very protective of the symbionts," she called. "And my people have always exhibited an unhealthy level of xenophobia. Personally, I've always thought that our fears greatly overshadowed any actual danger, but popular opinion is not on my side. But imagine what might happen if we could show the Symbiosis Institute some concrete evidence of extra-planetary medical research! It's far past time that my people learn the good things that come from being a little more open minded."

" All true. Would you like me to arrange a holodeck so we can start our research?" The doctor replied already beginning to type out some notes on his wrist computer.

"I think that's an excellent idea!"

With a few taps the gorn had booked one of the holodecks for later in the week. " Everything okay in there?" He asked noting how long she was taking.

She stepped out fully dressed in her uniform now. Her hands were up in her hair as she worked to pin up the loose strands. Her lips firmly held several bobby pins between them. "When do we start?" she managed from between her pressed lips.

" I've booked one of the holodecksss for three daysss time. We could go ssstart now and have a look at my old notesss." The big lizard responded grinning to himself offering his hand to hold the pins.

She reached up to her lips, gathering the pins between thumb and forefinger, and dropped them into a neat pile in the Gorn's hand. She looked up at him, affecting an apologetic pout. "I'd love to, but I'm up next at the CONN."

" Well I'll let you get to work. I need to get some sssleep and food anyway. " The gorn replied as he handed her the pins as she needed them.

"Thank you so much, Doctor. I really appreciate everything you're doing. I mean that." When she had placed the last pin in her hair, she walked with him to the door. "Oh! Wait!" she said suddenly. She walked quickly back into the bathroom, returning with the blue phial he had brought her. "Application instructions?"

" Apply to the area in which you feel pain. Allow to dry onto your ssskin. " The gorn replied as he made his way towards the door.

An inappropriate joke sprang to her mind then. Miraculously, she managed to bite her tongue. She realized that she didn't know the doctor very well, and she wasn't altogether certain he would appreciate her humor. Instead she said: "Thank you, doctor. I look forward to working with you, soon."

" The sssame to you my dear." The gorn said as he stepped out of her quarters his stomach grumbling as he did. He needed something to eat.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Her Side of the Story

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Chief Petty Officer Railli Feyth

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Shuttle Bay 2

Timeline: MD2 15h15

* Continued from "Confrontation and Events" *

The doors to Shuttle Bay 2 opened slowly and Liselle Qwyyn stepped through.

From where she sat on the extended ramp of a personnel shuttle, Feyth Railli called out, "Ken?"

"It's Liselle," Qwyyn replied. She walked around to the rear of the shuttle. Feyth had clearly been crying, was crying still. Her face was puffy and red, her eyes swollen, her nose running.

"Commander," Feyth said with a sad laugh. She sniffled, wiping her nose with the back of her hand. "Here to continue the interrogation?"

Liselle folded her arms across her chest. She studied Feyth for a moment. Her eyes narrowed as she considered her. "Are you pregnant?"

Feyth coughed out a surprised gasp. "What?"

Liselle began ticking off points on her fingers as she listed them. "After the rumors started I noticed that you've been sick several times in the last few weeks. You've been white as a ghost for just as long, and when the crew goes out after shift you stick to virgin drinks," she said. "I don't have a problem with that by any stretch. But it's unusual for you. And that's not to mention your emotional state as of late. Next to you I look positively sane."

"There's been a case of Alterian Flu going around," Feyth said quickly. "A lot of people aboard the Elysium have had it since we left the starbase. It's almost the exact same symptoms."

"Are you pregnant?" Qwyyn repeated, the question firm.

Feyth looked down at her abdomen. She placed her hands over her flat stomach. Her chest rose and fell with her breathing. "I don't know," she admitted in a soft voice. "I'm too afraid to find out."

Liselle walked up the ramp and sat down next to Feyth. She looked over at the Bajoran seated beside her. "The rumors going around about you and Waters..."

Feyth's head fell forward in defeat so that she was staring down at the shuttle ramp beneath her boots. "You ever drink too much, Liselle?" she asked sadly. "You ever stay up drinking so late with someone that you end up doing something that you never thought you'd do, not in a million years?"

Qwyyn couldn't help but smile at the memory of her and Chief Tactical officer Udal. A night of drinking on their very first meeting, a night of laughs, a night of more drinking, a night of... "Yes," she said. "I've been there. I've certainly made that...choice before." She avoided using the word 'mistake.'

"That's why I stopped drinking," Feyth said. "Because of what happened that night." She sniffled again. Her breath came out in shaking starts. "I'm so ashamed. I never wanted...if I could take it back. I wish, more than anything I wish I could take that night back."

Qwyyn put an arm around Feyth, and the Bajoran broke down entirely, burying her face in Qwyyn's side and crying uncontrollably.

So was that the whole story, then? Feyth and Ken had drank themselves stupid one night, fallen into each other's arms, and Ken genuinely didn't remember what had happened? The next day Feyth told a coworker and the rumors began? It all seemed a little too convenient, a little too perfect of an excuse.

Regardless, now the poor girl might be pregnant. And the child's father was in love with another woman.

"Feyth," Qwyyn said gently after a time, "Phoenix and I didn't set out to torture anyone. We were just tired of all the whispers and all the rumors, and all of the pain that they were causing. We wanted everything out on the table. Frankly, I once warned you that if you ever crossed Phoenix again while you were on my team, I was going to take you off of my team."

Feyth managed to steady her breathing. She looked straight ahead, Qwyyn's arm still around her. "You have to believe me, I had no idea about Ken and Commander Lalor. I don't know why I lost control like that back there. It's not like Ken isn't allowed to have relationships. We're not involved or anything. It's just that hearing about him and Phoenix surprised me. And I guess my emotions are a little high right now and --"

"I believe you," Qwyyn said, cutting her off. "But the stories about you and Waters."

"Oh God," Feyth moaned. "Liselle, you have no idea what I've done."

"Oh, honey. I think I have a pretty good idea."

"Trust me. You think you know everything, but you don't."

Qwyyn's voice was firm, "Then tell me."

Feyth closed her eyes, she brought a shaking hand up to her mouth and without sound the tears began to spill again.

"Okay," Qwyyn sighed. She was growing frustrated, but she managed to stow those feelings. She decided to try another approach. "Then don't tell me. Really, it's not my business. But I want you to talk to the Captain."

Feyth got control of herself once more and disentangled herself from Qwyyn's arm. "Are you ordering me to disclose my sexual relationships to Phoenix Lalor?"

Qwyyn thought about the question. For a heartbeat she almost considered saying yes. But instead she said, "No. Of course not. What I want is for you to make your best effort to bury the hatchet between you two. Tell her everything that's going on, or don't. But this cold war the two of you have going on isn't going to work anymore. Phoenix recently reminded me that the crew of the Elysium is a family. If we're all going to survive out here, we all need to remember that. Like it or not, this is her ship now. Your mutual dislike of one another was one thing before the Admiral gave the Elysium over to her, but now you are in a very different position. If you can't respect her, and if you can't work with her, then you shouldn't be here. It's not fair to either of you. It's no way to go through life. And that's not advice from your superior officer, that's advice from a friend who cares about you."

Feyth thought on it. She was silent for a long time. Qwyyn watched a far off light in the shuttle bay faintly flicker. Finally, Feyth nodded. "Okay. I'll try it your way," she said. "Because you're right. This isn't working."

"Good," Qwyyn said warmly.

"But can you do me a favor?"

Qwyyn shrugged. "Of course."

"Can you ask her if she'd be willing to talk. I mean, REALLY talk? I don't have the energy for sniping at each other anymore. I'm tired."

"Absolutely," Qwyyn said.

The only problem, Qwyyn thought, was whether or not she could get Phoenix agree to try and bury the hatchet. She expected it would be best to forewarn her about the potential pregnancy news as well -- so that it didn't come as a surprise and set off her emotions.

"Absolutely," she repeated.

Meeting the CEO

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: XO's Ready Room

Timeline: Current

After his not so successful meeting with Lt.Commander Holmes and her insistence on keeping HER plan a secret even from him and adding she wouldn't trust him if her life depended on it. Gary decided to talk with the Chief Engineer and give him some information as to what was going on as well as hopefully get some cooperation. Sitting up in his chair, he Tapped his combadge =^= Taylor to Grronkil, please report to my ready room.=^=.

=^= On my way, my beta," said Matias. He left Engineering and made his way to the XO's office. Soon, he was chiming the door.

Gary heard the CEO's reply and sat back in his chair. He hoped this meeting was going to be more productive than the one with Holmes. Moments later he heard his chime. "Enter." He announced, sitting straighter in his chair.

Matias entered and snapped to attention. "Lt. Grronkil reporting as ordered, sir!" he said.

'Ah.Mr. Grronkil, at ease, come have a seat and we can get started." Gary told the CEO

"Thank you, my beta," said Matias as he sat down. "What can I do for you?"

"I think this might be a case of what I can do for you." Gary countered. "I wanted to inform you of some security changes and how they apply directly to your department." Gary answered seriously.

"I was wondering why security came to my department," said Matias. "Nobody seems willing to say why, as I have things under control there. My ears are open to what you have to say, my beta."

"Let me first put your mind at ease. These changes in no way, shape or form are a reflection of you, your skill or your leadership. However, we, that is the Captain and myself have received reports that there may be "attempts" to disrupt activities aboard ship and what better department to strike than Engineering." Gary finished pausing to see if Grronkil had any questions at this point.

"Please go on, my beta," said Matias. "If it affects my department, I need to know. There has been a lot of grumbling among my crew, and they think I don't hear it. It's hard for a species like mine not to, as I'm like the Terran wolf."

Gary nodded, "Anything you hear." He said referring to the grumbling, "Report back to me. We want to stop any plans to cause a disruption in normal ship activities before they get started. So there will be a standing security detail in Engineering around the clock. There may even be some roving patrols throughout the ship."

"Understood," said Matias. "Most of what I hear is discontent that somebody from outside Starfleet is running the department, namely me. Also there's questioning the decision that brought this ship to my galaxy. That's the most I hear, and have tried to ignore it until now. I've been told imposing Grral discipline is not the Starfleet way, so I've been trying to be lenient."

"Don't let that affect how you do your job or what you expect from your department. Don't let anyone slide by. Be aware of what is being said as you are and if something is said that can improve efficiency in the department than implement it. Be lenient but don't be a pushover. The only people you need to be concerned with complaining is the Captain and myself and we're not."

"Understood, my beta," said Matias. "You may have seen the way authority is done in a Terran wolf pack, how there is an alpha and beta in charge, and challenges are immediately dealt with, as it is with the Grral. And I am glad you are pleased with my work. I have improved the efficiency in the dapartment as it was somewhat sloppy when I took charge. In my department, I am alpha, and I will let them know it, as I have done when I took over." He took great pains not to look Gary in the eye, as to do so is a challenge in Grral custom.

"I'm impressed and pleased at how well you have adapted to our way of doing things as well as incorporating some of your customs into the running of your department.Don't forget you are the alpha of the Engineering department." Gary replied to the CEO.

"I will remember, my beta." said Matias. "Is there anything else?

Gary shook his head, "No, nothing else Mr. Grronkil. I appreciate how accepting you've been with the security changes I gave you. You may return to Engineering."

Matias nodded and left the office.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Brown not do dull after all.

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Stellar Cartography

Timeline: MD1, (follows starry, starry, night)

The moment the doors closed, she turned her attention back to the stary display that filled the room, placing both hands on the rail she leaned back, any further contemplation was cut through by the clearly still nervous Ensign who had taken to giving a commentary of his actions.

"Saving image point and reseting to current sensor data point."

The image blurred out and shifted quickly, the type of effect that if a person had motion sickness would likely make them want to hurl. It resettled on local space, the area detectable by a combination of the ships sensors including long range to the passive proximity.

"Accessing Starfleet Cartography"

Dyhei closed her eye at this point anticipating another change in focus and field of display,

"Searching sector charts, isolating system eight-three-seven-lambda-two." At this point Dyhei glanced over at the back of the Ensign who at that point had glanced over his shoulder before quickly looking back to his console read out. "Look I don't need a running own of the steps your taking, I'm not here to judge your adherence to protocol or whatever, I curiosity to see what catches your interest, relax, take me to your destination."

"Okay........and here we are seven-lambda-two, former binary star." He remarked a little more at ease. "I can see that, that's. ........wow, that's something else." Dyhei remarked as the display cycled to zoom in and puthe the objects in the center of the room.

One the one side the dull completion of a brown dwarf star stood in stark contrast to the huge cloud of stellar matierial that hung in a loose sphere around a brilliant but shrinking orange dwarf, the clear aftermath of it supernova. But it appeared the change was not quite doneasy yet, the sense of change and motion was brought into focus by a sterling trail of stellar matierial, being visably sucked away from the former supergigant and beginning to envelop and wrap itself around the dwarf.

Ost of her now caught up in shear wonder of the spectical of the image before, but a small part being dragged back to the theoretical world, by the young ensign who had restarted his commentary, only this time it's focus was the data being collected. Dyhei half frowned half smiled for a few more moments allowing him to continue, he was after all just doing what he should, what trainingredients had taught him, time for an object lessionot.

"Ensign, your doing it again, can I ask you are the recorders open is theasy data being logged?"

"Yes of course sir, according to protocol......."

"Then forget the numbers for a while, there's a whole light show going on, you can run the numbers later, for now just watch." Dyhei exclaimed, as she allowed her own eagerness and passion for their field to come to the fore. He seemed to get the message and lapsed into silence, save for a few exclamations of wonder. Dyhei allowed the smile to return as she gazed at the image once more, allowing a length of time to slide by, and circling back to the data. "Okay now look at the numbers, what are they telling you."

"Well the gravitational field and central point has shifted, it's now double over the browe dwarf. To be expected given the other going nova. The stellar gaseous shift is quite pronounced, eight to the fourteenth power parts per meter per second, I'll compere with other like events such when I'm done here. Huh......"

"Huh? Huh means unexpected or unusual, what you got?" Dyhei said with eagerness.

"A chemical signature, comparing and cross reference. It's a cessei-bromide compound, defiante concentrations and in the nova material, highly unusual." The Ensign said halting as he carefully checked both the datalent stream and the analysis parameters he was using.

"Anything in the surrounding systems that could have been pulled in by the event?"

"None, could it be a unique byproduct?"

"Could be." Dyhei responded pensively, her mind racing at both the find which was truly fascinating and it's implications or more to the point if it had and implications. "Tag it as an anomaly, make sure you pay it attention when you review. I'll be doing some cross checking as well, just so you know." She decided and directed quite forcefully, it appeared the hybrid had something to occupy herself with while the rest played man hunt.

"Anything else........."

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - "Arrival at Risa"

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Avalon & Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor & Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Commander Tate Sullivan Ph.D. & Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Sthilg & Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Bridge and Various

Timeline: MD 3 12h00

IC:

Phoenix walked out of her office in silence. The past three days had been very different for her and in a personal sense, difficult but she kept that under wraps. Nodding to a passing ensign she moved to the command well and stopped in front of her chair. Her chair. By the Triad would she get used to that.

She turned and looked at the main viewer. They were still at Warp for another few minutes. "Avalon" She called. And the Holographic AI appeared beside her.

"Yes Commander."

"Inform the crew that we are about to arrive at Risa. And call the senior bridge crew to the bridge if they are not here already."

The hologram nodded. And throughout the ship echoed ["RISA arrival time in t minus 2 minutes. All senior bridge crew to the bridge for arrival."]

The turbo lift door opened as the ships doctor arrived still cleaning his hands with a bio wipe. Noting the planet they were coming to he groaned internally. The number of injuries this planet caused a ship was unbelievable. If they were here on shore leave. " Ah, Risssa. Lovley planet for gorn'sss when you get out of the areasss covered by the weather control network." He said mostly to himself as he leant on the rail watching the blue orb in front of him.

Liselle smiled from the CONN at the doctor's comment. To the command center she announced: "Bringing us up on Risa. The long way around. A little show for the tourists to thank them for letting us tag along," she said. While the tourism companies appreciated and welcomed the sense of safety that the Starfleet ships that traveled on their flight paths brought, they were even more grateful for a little show now and then. It meant a lot to them to have a powerful starship casually swoop by the windows of a couple of transports to wow the guests as their vacations began. There was an unspoken mandate in the Federation to play nice with the tourism companies, particularly when Starfleet had need of leveraging them for information about unsavory characters that might be using their services. Liselle was impressed that the AI had factored the showboating into her estimations for arrival.

Gary sat in the XO's chair. He listened to the CMO's comment as well as Liselle's about Risa. whatever his own thoughts were about the planet and the activities they offered he kept to himself. He was more concerned with finding a AWOL Starfleet officer and finding out all the particulars as to why he disappeared.

"Bring us into the designated orbit please Commander" Phoenix said to Liselle. "And notify the Orbital facility of our trajectory."

"Aye, sir," Qwyyn replied as her fingers made their way across her board. "Standard orbit. Orbital facility Bravo 1 has acknowledged our request and are clearing us for high orbit at 104 degrees latitude."

Matias had never heard of Risa or been there, so he was in for some surprises as he manned the Engineering station.

Lia entered the bridge and cast a quick glance at the view screen, "Fun in the sun for some, every time I've been here before it's been work related. And this time is no different, story of my life". She walked over to the Security/Tactical station and scanned the surrounding vessels, "Has anyone picked up the Ferengi Marauder standing off the starboard side at 80,000 meters? There also seems to be a Ferengi Pod heading for us, Comms have we had any contact with that ship?"

Phoenix turned to listen as the Comms ensign replied in the negative. She disliked Ferengi. "Contact them Warn them off. I have no time to deal with them and their backdoor tactics." She said to the Comms officer. "Commander Holmes, target them so they know we mean business but do not fire. I do not want them on this ship. Their pod can go else where."

Lighting up the ferengi vessel their pod seemed to shear off, "Captain, I think they got the message. But knowing Ferengi, I doubt it. Any further orders?"

Phoenix nodded. "Keep reminding them if they move towards us again. I want them to know we are not interested in any dodgy dealings."

Lia responded, "Aye Captain, we also have an Orion Freighter keeping station with us. It's about 100,000 meters off our portside rear, almost as if it's trying to find our blind spot". She wasn't sure if it meant anything, but informing the Captain of it couldn't hurt.

"Monitor them as well." Phoenix replied. "No one is to board this ship Commander. We have enough issues without adding the underworld to it."

She thought about lighting up the freighter as well, but then stopped herself. "I'll keep a weather eye on both vessels Captain". Lia made a mental note, and continued to scan around the ship.

Phoenix nodded and looked to Operations. "Inform all decks that we have arrived please and remind them that shore leave will not be happening."

The ensign at Ops nodded.

With the announcement they had arrived and the reminder this was not a shore leave venture, Tate headed to the bridge, the doors to the department closing just after she heard the barely stifled groans, all in good fun, of course, that this was no time for vacation. That was going to be rough on morale, considering the crew was just trying to find its footing again.

The doors to the bridge hissed open, admitting Tate. She took a position near the Commander.

Phoenix turned to Gary. "Commander, select your away team. Let us go find ourselves a commodore"

Gary gave a nod of acknowledgement, "Commanders Holmes and Qwyyn and Mr. Grronkil, you're all part of the away team, grab phasers and tricorders and meet me and the Captain." He looked at Phoenix as he said the last, "In the transporter room."

"Yes, my beta." said Matias. He left to get a tricorder and phaser and then made his way to the transporter room.

Qwyyn quickly summoned her replacement to relieve her before jumping up from her console to follow the Grral.

" Ssshould i prep sssickbay in case of wounded? " Asked the gorn from his position.

Phoenix nodded. "Yes, that would be an idea Doctor"

Lia sat somewhat shocked, after her little chat with the XO this was the last thing she expected. "Aye sir, I will tell Lieutenant Stiegalle to take over. I will see you both in the transporter room". As she left she watched the XO, but didn't notice anything.

Phoenix merely walked silently to the lift. She was not heading down to the planet but she knew that Gary wanted her there when they beamed down.

[Science Decks]

Down in the Science labs Dyhei's attention was caught by the announcement, a smirk spread across her face at there destination, she'd spent several fun filled shorelines here, but not this time still she could resits a comment. "Ahh Risa, Risa, you den of pleasure and relaxation, to bad this is all business." Then turn back to the calculations she was running, to compare a results cross section, just as a petty officer technician piped up. "You know I hear there's some unique plant life on the shore line of the south Beach, it's a reason."

Dyhei laughed and shook her head. "Yeah not sure that would fly. They need as few complications as possible, but if we do get called on your cheek just put on the possible away team list."

=/\=

Meeting with the Counselor

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Matias Grronkil & Lieutenant Commander Tate Sullivan Ph.D.

Mission: Episode 0: History Speaks

Location: Counselor's office

Timeline:

Him Since there was nothing important to do in Engineering, and his crew had things well in hand, Lt. Grronkil took leave and left for the Counselor's office for his appointment. He chimed the door and waited.

Doctor Tate Sullivan was in the process of organizing her office, which strangely enough, looked exactly like she'd left it, minus her scant personal belongings several years earlier. It just made her to learn there hadn't been a consistent chief counselor since she'd been abruptly reassigned back then, but assuming things went well with the initial crew debriefings, that was about to change. Looking up from her desk where she'd organized all of the information she'd need before meeting with the crew, she was surprised to hear her door chime. Either a member of the command staff had forgotten to tell her something or the crew was more eager to meet with a therapist more than she expected or remembered.

"Come in," Sullivan called out, genuinely curious.

Matias entered. "My beta, I am Lieutenant Grronkil here for my appointment with you." he said. He stood until invited to sit down.

"Hello, Lieutenant," Tate greeted. "Please feel free to have a seat and make yourself comfortable. May I ask what you meant by 'my beta'? I don't believe I've heard the expression before."

Matias sat down as his beta gave permission. "Forgive me, Commander, it is a custom of my people," he said. "A beta is one in command who is lesser than the alpha who commands us all." He did not look her in the eye, as among the Grral, it was an insult and a challenge to his betters. "I have been sent here as I have found it difficult to adjust to the ways of this people."

"No forgiveness is necessary," Tate replied. "You were only speaking as you were accustomed to. I appreciate you sharing information about your culture and your customs. I am still new here and getting to know the crew. I would be pleased to help you settle in and adjust to service aboard the ship. Is this your first time serving in Starfleet?"

"Yes it is, my beta." said Matias. "Before, I was in the Grral fleet in a world in the galaxy you call Andromeda. I have never been here in the Hunter...what we call your Milky Way."

"I see," Tate offered. "So in many ways, you and the rest of the crew are experiencing similar feelings, I imagine. They had never been in the Andromeda galaxy until recently either. I'm still learning the details, but I know they haven't had an easy time of it since their arrival. How has it been for you so far?"

"It has been an adjustment," he said. "This is so different from my home. Humanoids with their unique psychology are rare in my galaxy. I have not been homesick as I had nothing more there after my mate died. I wanted to get away and see new worlds, so I joined the crew of this ship."

Tate nodded. "The opportunity to get away and see new worlds is a common reason why many of us joined Starfleet, so you'll fit right in in that regard. I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your mate. It sounds like you've endured a great many changes in a fairly short period of time. I'm really glad you were willing to reach out for someone to talk to. Sometimes it takes time for us to feel the full impact of our emotions, and change can be stressful under the best of circumstances."

"Thank you, my beta," said Matias. "I was at a loss for somebody to talk to when I came aboard, and am glad to have an open ear. I hope to be a valuable member of this crew."

"I'm certain you already have been," Tate replied. "I'm still learning about the circumstances of how the crew came to your galaxy and what they endured while there, but I imagine having someone already familiar with the environment was invaluable to ensuring the crew survival."

"Thank you, Counselor, It is what interested me in coming and helping repair the ship in my galaxy. I'll take in mind what we have discussed."

Sullivan nodded. "In the meantime, feel free to come back sooner than scheduled if you experience any trouble sleeping, nightmares, periods of extreme sadness, or any other emotional changes. Sometimes changes like that have a way of sneaking up on us."

"I will do that, my beta, and thank you." He got up and left.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Process of Simulation

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Dyhei Liducca

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location:

Timeline: MD3, 13

15

Concerned and contemplating. Twisting the fact of cesium - bromide being present in her mind, and more importantly how it could have gotten there in the first place, then equally as importantly what that could mean.

Dyhei already had thoughts of how to run a simulation of the formation, informed by her lab tech years, but the feeling this meant something was not going away and the hybrid wanted to be sure each step was as accurate as possable and recalled she had an active chemistry team on ship, currently working on a bio - chemical theory. But a quick favour for the new boss had to work, if not a small bribed incentive was certain to.

"So how are things progressing?"

Adequately. I have to say the promptness of the engineer and the fact it was the Chief was a plenty supprise. What did you ave to promise? "

Nothing. I was expecting to have to argue the importance, and it's what you needed.

Exactly and then some we've been able to start the process and have already processed some readings, next step adjust the varables and monitor. "

"Glad to hear it. Would like you to take a look at something for me, need a second opinion, here."

"This is cesium - bromide compound, this relatively common stuff apart from the slightly elivated cesium particles, so the physicist's playing with lasers so much they forgotten basic chem." He tried to hide obvious interest behind a common dig at another field.

"Not exactly. These are Anomalies reading from a star study, I know the theory and have a lab booked youll have more hands on experience. Any chance i could steal you away for an hour or so." Dyhei explained trying to phrase the offer in away he'd likely accept, then throwing in a deal clincher " I'd owe you one."

"Your not like other chiefs. I guess I could spare the time, process run if im watching or not, and I have lab techs to cover that." He offered with a slight smirk, the offer was to good to refuse as it was, the additions were interesting and could make for a different tone in the department.

"See you in ten, were in lab six." Dyhei arranged, flashing a quick smile before turning and walking away.

- Forty Minutes Later-

"Minimal compound formation. Again" He stated with a lage amount of dispondancy and frustration behind the statement. "Nothing in the system, could be pulled in enough quatities to produce the readings your getting. Nothing natural anyway." He restated a conclusion he'd come to just prior to running this particular simulation. " I'd start looking at debris. Plenty of ships dump things, Starfleet vessels included."

This last remark caught Dyhei's attention, as all the natural progression tests were returning inconclusive results, she was turning to the fact it was not a natural event, "The flow could give us a start point, extrapolate how large a dump from the readable material." She responded with a firmness that made her subordinate take action, albeit with a roll of eyes and an expression that showed off his doubt.

"Setting the simulation to introduce the mass of compound, reletive bearing zero four seven by zero three three at distance of point six two AU, point four five second prior to event." Dyhei related her alterations to the simulation perameters, after double checking her calculations. "Begining simulation." Tapping the execute command on the input panel, Dyhei leaned back in the chair focusing her attention on the readout screens, watching as the figures cycled on there proposed path, deep in her subconscious the events took on a visual effects, the sudden and violent supper nova followed by the calm initial aftermath, then the effects of the negbouring star began to show the shift in stellar material, and more importantly the cesium - bromide compound, it followed the same path as the 'natural' material. Accessing the results of a past scan, she added a reading match cause to the simulation, eyes beginning to widen as the numbers fell along a certain path, a path that led to a pause and the screen boarders to flash green along with 'Match Dettected' notice across the screen.

"Looks like we got something, finally." The Lieutenant stated frankly breaking the silence and snapping Dyhei away from a negative thought track.

"Yeah it does, what's the variation?"

"One point one three, middle of the accepted experiment variation allowances, coincidence."

"Or not." Dyhei remarked, herself being an advocate of the 'no such thing as coincidence' ideas this left her with questions, that would take time to mull over. "Thanks for your input, I'll make sure it's noted, you can go back to your duties I'll finish up here." She replied sofly, already make a start to on the colate and catalogue procedure.

Once the Lieutant had left Dyhei allowed herself a smile. It seemed like a project had found her.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - "And down we go

A Mission Post by Commander Phoenix Lalor & Lieutenant Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Commander Gary Taylor & Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Matias Grronkil

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Transporter Room 1`

Timeline: MD 3 12h20

IC

Transporter room 1 was quiet but it soon changed as the away team entered the room.

Matias was first to enter the transporter room and stepped up on the pad.

Qwyyn followed closely behind, her nose buried in her tricorder as she ran it through a series of standard self-diagnostics. She stepped up onto the pad behind Matias, paging through the diagnostic report with quick taps on the small screen.

Lia had obtained her phaser and tricorder, and slowly made her way to transporter room one. Her inclusion in this away mission still surprised her somewhat, as she entered the transporter she noticed Grronkil. "Oh hello Chief, I'm Commander Aurelia Holmes. I don't recall us being formally introduced". She took her place on the pad, and wondered why a large wolf would become an engineer.

Gary entered the transporter room next. He had his standard phaser to go along with the cricket phaser he always carried tucked inside his waistband. It was a carryover from earlier,deadlier times and was standard equipment for personnel in his former line of work. It also gave him an added sense of security. He saw the others were already there on the pads and waiting. He stopped short of stepping onto a pad as he was reasonably sure Phoenix was coming down to see them off and perhaps give him some last minute orders.

Phoenix entered after everyone, a PADD in her hand. She handed it to Gary. "An arrest warrant for the Commodore." She said softly. Turning to the rest she said calmly "Your orders are as follows. Find the Commodore, bring him back. No Heroics no unneeded violence. Keep in contact."

Gary took the offered PaDD. "Simple enough and understood. I hope the Commodore also sees reason and refuses to engage in violence. I'd like to bring him back in one piece."

"I'm not sure I would," Liselle muttered to herself.

Phoenix gave them a smile and she had heard Liselle's mutter. And then she said "Old Erisian Saying 'A' win, be ringwe vee' khelek' - To win be as cold as ice" She looked at Liselle. "It is much like the human saying of 'Revenge is best served cold'. When you have the commodore in custody, I have assurances he will pay for his crimes."

Qwyyn folded up her tricorder and tucked it into its pouch at her side. "Glad to hear that, sir."

Gary moved to a pad and stepped on it. "If there's nothing else I think we're ready sir." He glanced over at Holmes, he needed to talk to her. They didn't have to like each other but it was imperative that they work together in capturing the Commodore and return him to the authorities where he would answer for his crimes.

Looking at the other three, Lia thought she was the only one without a motive against the Commodore. Then she caught Taylor giving her a look, oO Who the hell does he think he is? Oo she thought.

Gary caught Lia, returning her look, he gave her a tight smile and a nod of his head before turning it around to face Phoenix and prepare to beam down to the planet's surface.

The response from Taylor caught Lia by surprise, was that smile genuine or just fake for everyone else to notice? She decided to confront Taylor on the planet, alone if possible.

Stepping back, Phoenix nodded to the chief. And then she looked at Taylor. "Commander, good hunting." She said calmly.

The away team was beamed away the very next moment.

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Death Stalking

A Mission Post by Avalon & Lieutenant Protector Lambada & Lieutenant Protector Beta & Lieutenant Protector Delta & Lieutenant JG Protector Epsilon & Lieutenant JG Protector Gamma

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Location Unknown

Timeline: MD 3 14h00

With an away team off to investigate something on the planet, their target numbers were reduced.

There were five of them currently, five to do the work of what was once had been a cell of 8. Their numbers had dwindled to 6 before their return to the Alpha quadrant and while all 6 were still assigned to the USS Elysium, only 5 were currently aboard.

Now gathered in their normal meeting place, hidden from prying eyes.

"We split up" Said Beta. "With Taylor planetside, he took with him the chief of security and the chief engineer and chief of Flight control. That leaves only a small number of senior Staff on board. And the Captain."

The other 4 shifted. It had been a shock when Sharr had given himself in payment for their return to their home galaxy, and then had advanced Phoenix Lalor to Acting Commanding officer. But it had been something they had considered being able to work around.

"So our targets will need to be changed. I would suggest that we take page from our mysterious ally's page. Blow up something in medical."

"Too Cliche." Gamma replied coldly. "Shuttle bay."

Lambada shook their head."No, let's take out the weapons systems"

"But what about the new security precautions the Chief has put in place?" Epsilon replied.

"I can work around them" Lambada replied confidently.

"How about a double attack then?" Delta suggested quietly. "Cargo bay and weapons bay?"

The rest exchanged looks and then nodded. "Good" Beta said. "Let's get started"

Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here! - Fly in the Ointment

A Mission Post by Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Holmes & Lieutenant Alfonse Stiegalle

Mission: Episode 2: Hell is empty, all the devils are here!

Location: Various Locations

Timeline: Current

ON

Alfonse walked along the corridor heading for transporter room one, he was hoping to catch Commander Holmes before she left on her away mission. As he turned the corner he saw the Captain leave the transporter room and head off to the bridge, oO Looks like I missed her Oo he thought. He turned and headed for the security office, the Commander had been working on some sort plan perhaps he could take a look and help her out.

As he approached the office he noticed two of the team hanging around the door, they hadn't spotted him so had stopped to watch what they were up to. Because they had their backs to him he couldn't tell who they were, plus his location didn't help with a couple of corners blocking part of the view. He strained to see just what they were doing, but from where he stood it appeared as if they were forcing the office door. oO Why the hell would they be doing that? Oo he considered.

Suddenly he heard the doors of the turbo lift open, so did the two at the door. They now headed towards the sound and out of his field of view, he slowly made his way to the office door. It was as he thought, the door showed signs of damage as the pair had tried to force it open. But who were they? And why do this? Alfonse wished he'd seen their faces, but he hadn't and so identifying them was out of the question. Also just what were they after in the office? It did prove one thing, Holmes had changed the security status of the office for a reason and from what he could tell it had been the right choice.

He knew that this would cause a bit of a problem for him, because now he had at least two security guys who couldn't be trusted. Did Holmes know something about all this? And if she did, why didn't she tell him? Maybe she thought he was one of them, that made him feel depressed. But what to do now? Did he contact Holmes on the planet and inform her of the pair, or did he stay silent and hope to catch the pair at it again and identify them? He quickly discounted the first option, as he didn't know who they were he really couldn't tell Holmes much. That only left the second option, but would the pair try the same thing again?