Star Trek: The Final Frontier ~ Season I IC Thread

[G&MRPG]

[YT]XsxgcLf0TSY[/YT]​

The year is 2389, and much has changed in the galaxy.

After the Federation's help in stopping the Reman rebel, Shinzon, and saving the Romulan Empire, a new accord was reached between the two former enemies. The Romulan High Council and the United Federation of Planets agreed to try and put an end to hostilities, beginning with allowing trade between the two cultures. Captain William T. Riker, of the USS Titan, has spearheaded the talks between the two people and was the first Federation officer to set foot on the new Federation Embassy on Romulus. Although not officially the ambassador, Riker remains the most respected Federation personality in the Romulan Empire, and is the Federation's main spokesperson to Romulus.
Though, in the year 2387, a great tragedy struck the Romulan Star Empire when the star of Romulus' system went nova and obliterated the Romulan homeworld. With help from the Federation, the Romulans were able to evacuate many from the planet before it's destruction. Even still, millions of lives were lost in the catastrophic event.

The Klingon Empire, under the leadership of the aging Chancellor Martok, has been vocally against this new partnership. While maintaining their alliance with the Federation, the Klingons have slowly drawn back into a reclusive shell, leading some in the Federation to believe that the warrior race may once more return to it's old ways of conquest and war. The Klingon's Supreme General, and former Federation Ambassador, Worf, is torn between his past with the Federation and his new life among his people. Though he still has many ties to the United Federation of Planets, Worf will do what is necessary to protect the Empire's honor and it's people, even if it means going to war with old friends.

After their heavy losses at the end of the Dominion War, the Cardassians have become a fraction of what they once were. Over 800 million lives were lost on Cardassia alone, and the once proud people, staring uncertainty in the face, have been forced to seek aid from the Federation and Klingon Empire. With the tensions growing between the Federation and the Klingons, the Cardassians have remained neutral as they quietly keep a sharp eye on how those tensions evolve. They know that one day, they may be forced to take a side, so they are secretly rebuilding their defenses and armada to prepare for that day.

The Dominion still remains at peace with the races and factions of the Alpha Quadrant, but it is a shaky peace as there remains many on both sides who still are bitter and resentful of the other after the end of the Dominion War. The Dominion's presence in the Alpha Quadrant is relegated to a single embassy on the space station, DS-9, with their empire in the Gamma Quadrant still intact. Former DS-9 security chief Odo, after having rejoined his fellow Changelings, has been the one trying desperately to keep the peace between the Federation and the Dominion, and has finally convinced his fellow Founders to allow a United Federation of Planets delegation into the Gamma Quadrant to dissuade their fears of another Dominion attack.

The Borg have remained largely hidden in the Delta Quadrant, but many believe it is only a matter of time before the race once again finds it's way back to the Alpha Quadrant, and once more attempts to assimilate the galaxy. A small Borg faction, led by the Borg known as Hugh, resides on a remote planet in the Alpha Quadrant, and is no longer one with the Collective. Unlike the rest of their race, these Borgs prize their individuality, and, in the year 2387, they were permitted entrance into the United Federation of Planets, with the blessings of Captain Data, who was brought back by Geordi La Forge by downloading Data's memories into the body of the prototype android, B-4.
Hugh and the Borg do not assimilate other species like their counterparts do. Instead, with the help of their liaison, Data, they have spent their time liberating drones from the Borg Collective, making them hated traitors in the eyes of the Borg Queen and their species.

With this being a perilous time for the Federation, Admiral Jean Luc-Picard, with the approval of Starfleet Command, has ordered the commission of a new line of star ships, having a personal hand in the creation of a brand new USS Enterprise. The brand new Enterprise (NCC-1701-F) is the most advanced ship in the Federation, and is the first Federation ship to legally use cloaking technology after a new treaty was reached with the Romulans, nullifying the Federation's cloaking ban from the Treaty of Algeron. Being a high ranking and influential official in the Federation, Admiral Picard has personally set out to hand pick the crew of this new Enterprise from some of the finest officers in all of Star Fleet.


Gamemaster: Johnny Blaze
Assistant Gamemaster: The Question
Assistant Gamemaster: Wiegeabo

For game rules, roster, and character application, see the OOC thread.

 

[Johnny Blaze]

"Morning, sir", the bright-eyed ensign smiled and saluted as Johnathan walked through the corridors of McKinley Station.
Rourke saluted the man and kept on heading towards the designated docking port.
The past ten hours have been a blur. He had arrived at the station and met with Admiral Jean-Luc Picard, whom was every bit the charismatic man he had heard so much about from his former captain, William Riker.
John had known all about Starfleet's commission of a new wave of ships. With the growing tensions between the Federation and the Klingons, the fragile peace treaty with the Dominion, and the myriad of other threats in the cosmos, it was a decision he whole-heartedly supported. Granted, their mission was one of exploration, first and foremost. But it didn't hurt to be ready for any possible conflict.

But, Johnathan was caught off guard when Admiral Picard told him of his reassignment. Effective immediately, Johnathan Rourke would be promoted to the rank of Captain, and given command of the Federation's new flagship, the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-F.
It was the opportunity of a lifetime of hard work for John. He had been hoping to get his own command eventually, but for it to come so quickly, and to be on board the Enterprise...it was an honor Captain Rourke could not refuse.

John stopped as he walked down the corridors nearing the docking arm that lead to his ship. He stared, breathlessly, out of the window at the massive starship resting snugly in port.

"Amazing", was the word that escaped his lips as he looked out at his new vessel.

"She's a beaut, isn't she?"

Johnathan turned towards the man who had seemingly crept up on him while he was fixated on his new ship.

"You must be Captain Rourke", the man smiled as he extended his hand.
"Commander LaForge, at your service."

"Yes, I know who you are, Commander", Rourke replied as he shook the man's hand.
"I've heard a lot about you from Captain Riker. You're one of the best engineers in all of Starfleet."

"Well, I don't like to brag", he smirked as he turned his attention to the starship just outside the window.
"I did most of the design work myself. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what she's capable of. She's one of the fastest ships in the fleet, not to mention the first to carry Federation cloaking technology. I gotta say...part of me envies you."

"Really? And why's that?"

"Because I'm stuck here, going over reports and overseeing engineering projects from Starfleet Command. I'd much rather be out there, where you're going. Out into the unknown...I miss that", Geordi said, as if recalling memories past as he looked out at his handiwork.

"Whatever you do, take good care of her", Commander LaForge said as he turned back to the Captain.
"Treat her like the lady she is, and she'll never do you wrong."

"Don't worry, Commander", Rourke grinned.
"She's in good hands."

"From what Will's told me, I believe you. Now, let's get you to your ship, Captain", Geordi said as he motioned for Rourke to follow him.

Johnathan followed Commander LaForge through the corridor and into the docking arm connecting the station to the Enterprise.
Commander LaForge and Captain Rourke parted ways, and the Captain entered his ship quietly taking it all in as he made his way straight to the bridge. As the turbolift doors opened, the Captain was greeted by some of the crewmen going over last minute diagnostics and prep before the launch.

"Please, don't let me keep you from your work. We're scheduled to depart in an hour, so I want all systems in working order", Rourke said after a salute as the crew went back to their work.

Moving to the captain's chair, Rourke gently brushed his fingers across the brand new leather.
His mouth creased into a barely visible smile as he looked across the bridge of his starship. The brand new U.S.S. Enterprise.

"I'll be in my ready room if anyone needs me", the Captain stated before entering his room adjacent to the bridge.
Moving to his desk, Johnathan sat down, looking around and taking it all in. He had an hour to kill before launch, so he leaned forward and activated the ships computer, bringing up the personnel files of the ship's command crew.
It would be good to get to know who was serving under his command, after all.
So, the Captain went about reviewing the crewmen's files as time slowly ticked away on the large grandfather clock in the room's corner.

 

[wiegeabo]

Then

First Officer's log: Stardate 65021.3

These last ten years have been nothing like I expected. I had been hoping for a nice and quiet, but not too boring, stint on Deep Space Nine to end my career. It was also a last chance to reunite with Prynn and hopefully work out our issues.

Well, it certainly hasn't been boring. Anything but. And my relationship with Prynn has never been closer. I've never felt so...satisfied with my life. For the first time in decades I wake up each morning looking forward to what may come. It's a long way from the contemplations of ending it all after I lost Ruriko.

And in three days, the Defiant launches back through the wormhole. I will captain the ship as we escort the Federation delegation that will meet with Odo and the other Founders. And I'm excited at the prospect. I've seen far too many years of war. The chance to make peace instead is one I look forward to.

The computer terminal on my desk bleeps about an incoming message. "End log," I say to it as I take a seat.

I type in a command, and the message pops up. I smile as I see who it's from...but my face quickly drops as I read on. I've barely finished reading when I march out the door, angry, and feeling like I could bite through a bulkhead.

"Ent-"

I barge into the General's office, barley giving the computer time to signal my presence, or her the time to give me permission to enter.

"Command-"

"What the hell is this about?!" I say, slamming the padd onto her desk.

Glancing at the padd, she picks up the baseball that sits on the desktop and tosses it between her hands. "I just found out about it myself. I was going to tell you personally..."

"Well, apparently, he didn't feel like waiting for you to do that."

"I've been trying to contact him to clear this all up, but he's not taking any calls."

"Don't worry about that. I'll get through to him."

"Commander, don't do anything you'll regret."

"Oh, trust me, I won't regret tearing Jean-Luc a new one..."

I stomp out of the office, leaving Kira sitting there, a expression of anger and bemusement on her face. I doubt the anger is directed at me. The bemusement on the other hand...

I step into my quarters, my temper at a full boiling rage now. "Computer!" "Connect me to Admiral Jean-Luc Picard, Starfleet Command, Earth. Priority O...Two." I shout. If only I could use a priority one code.

I grab a cup of coffee from the replicator. Caffeine is the last thing I need right now, but I could use a good cup. A few minutes later, the computer finally speaks up. "Unable to establish connection. Admiral Picard is not currently accepting incoming transmissions."

"Sonova- Fine. Connect me with his aide." I wait another couple of minutes, finishing my cup, before the aide appears. And she pretty much says the same thing the computer did. I try to throw my name around, by Commander doesn't carry a lot of weight with the aides of Admirals. Which means I need to get hold of another Admiral...

"Elias, you old bag of bones."

"Kyle, you're one to talk. I've only got ten years on you."

"Ten looong years," he teases. "So, is this just a friendly call?" Kyle Spense is one of the few Admirals from the old days I can joke around with. And he's just the man I need.

"I need to call in a favor, but nothing major!" I quickly say when I see the expression on his face.

"Right. And the favor would be...?"

"In your capacity as Head of Operations, I need you to place a call to Admiral Jean-Luc Picard, and tell him it's about the Enterprise....Then give me the line."

"Ah, the old bait and switch." Spense starts typing commands onto his desk. "Ignoring your calls, is he? Well, since I shouldn't be doing this, we'll call us even."

"Even? Are you forgetting Torgus II? Or how about the Orion homeworld. And what was the name of that woman on Risa...?"

Spense tries to ignore me, but he turns a shade more red. "Fine, I still owe you a couple. Make it quick."

The screen shifts. "This is Admiral Picard."

"Admiral, this is Commander Elias Vaughn."

"Vaughn?! How did you-"

"What gives you the right to reassign me on a whim."

Picard exhales. "It wasn't a 'whim', Commander. The Enterprise will need you as first officer-"

"DS9 needs me as first officer!"

"Deep Space Nine has an excellent command staff-"

"I know, because I'm part of it. Let me make this simple, Admiral. There's no way in hell I'm transferring to the Enterprise, and nothing you say is going to change that."


Now

"Commander?"

I look up from my padd at the Ensign piloting the shuttle from the Defiant. "Yes?"

"We're almost to the airlock."

"Belay that. Take us once around."

"Sir?"

"If I'm going to serve on her, I want to see what she looks like. Take the shuttle around."

"...um...aye, sir."

The pilot does as I order, bringing the shuttle away from the ship, and turning us around so we can see her head on. I lean forward on the controls as I look out the window.

"My god...she's amazing."

 

[Byrd Man]

Fifteen Years Ago

"Grandpa, tell me about the Tribbles again!"

"Come on now, Carter. I've told you that a thousand times. If I have to tell you a story, I would prefer the one with-"

"It's my favorite."

"Alright, then...Tribbles. See, the trouble with Tribbles is how fast they reproduce. You blink, and two become four and then four become eight!Those darn Tribbles, they reproduced at will. And, boy let me tell you, did they have a lot of will!"


Four Years Ago

"Doctor Leonard McCoy, better known as Bones to friends and family, was a man who spent the majority of his life on the forefront of exploration. He helped save the Federation and countless lives time and time again. Above all else, Bones cared about life and the preservation of life. His compassion and desire to help was unrivaled. We now gather here to lay him to rest. I will be the first to say that, even though we had our differences in the beginning, it was always a joy and pleasure to serve with Dr. McCoy. He was one of my best friends. Rest easy, old friend."


McKinley Space Station
Now

"Dr. McCoy....Dr. McCoy?"

I look up, the ensign snaps me out of my trance.

"Are you alright?"

"Yes....just lost in the past."

The young officer and I look on in astonishment at the star cruiser.

"It's beautiful isn't it?"

"It's just a hunk of metal, Ensign. You want to show me a marvel, show me the Gorn digestive system. It's a wonder they're able to digest food at all."

I walk away from the officer and scan the new ship over.

McCoy and Enterprise. The two almost go hand in hand. I have a lot to live up to. It's intimdating, to say the least. Personally, I look forward to the challenge.

 

[Franklin Richards]

McKinley Station
Transporter Room 4


"Fate protects fools, little children and ships named Enterprise"

"I'm sorry, Ensign?"

"Just something I proved in sophomore Statistics."

There she was. My new ship. MY ship. I still cain't believe it. Uncle Chakotay said they wanted me for the Ops position. He said it was quite an honor. Not many Ensign's are assigned to the Bridge Crew. Much less the flagship of the Federation. Technically it's 1 in 4,612.

Damn statistics.

"You're clear to transport over, Ensign. Standby"

T'Pal
Spock
Voight
Parker
Data


...and now Puk.


"Energize."

 

[AnorexicBatman]

McKinley Station

The officer stood next to the docking bay looking bored as ever, cross checking all civilians and crew coming aboard the fancy new Enterprise. Bellatrix comes forward.

"All right, Cheif Tactical Officer Bellatrix, Romulan (with a hint of surprise). Welcome abroad ma'am. What do you think of the ship?"

Staring a the massive Century Class vessel she exclaims, "Never have I seen a ship which claims to be a humble exploration vessel be so hideously over powered with armaments. Bring's a tear of joy to my eyes"

The officer raises his eyebrow, tries not to think too much about her tone of voice and continues, "I beleive all is in order. You will transported immediately. Energize"

 

[wiegeabo]

Then

"They need you, Elias."

"...That's your argument?"

"What did you expect?"

"Basically? A break down of every detailed reason you chose to uproot my life in an attempt to convince me it's the right thing to do."

"Would that have worked?"

"No, I was prepared for that."

"It's good to see I can still surprise you. The simple fact is, they need you. You're the most experienced commander in the Fleet."

"There are plenty of excellent commanders, and candidates, out there. If I remember, Riker was brand new to the job and served you quite well."

"The difference was that I wasn't new to the job. An experienced captain can mentor a young first officer. But a new captain needs a first officer he can rely upon. Someone to support his decisions, but not be afraid to reign him back when he pushes too hard and far."

"Then why select Rourke in the first place?"

"Because Captain Riker said he'd be a fine choice. And I needed to put together a crew that could handle the Enterprise's mission."

"And what about my mission? I'm scheduled to depart for the Gamma Quadrant in three days."

"I believe General Nerys was going to promote Commander Dax to your former position."

"My former position." I grunt. "Well, Ezri wasn't happy about Julian being gone for three months. Now she'll get to be in charge of her husband." Picard smirks and takes a sip from a teacup. "You know I could get out of this with two or three calls."

"I'm aware of your standing within the Admiralty. By all rights, I should be calling you sir. Elias, no offense, but everyone on DS9 has more experience with the Gamma Quadrant and the Founders than you do. But no one, and I mean no one in the Fleet, knows more about the Alpha Quadrant. You know all the ins and outs. The names of the big players, so to speak. You have all the contacts. Rourke is going to need your help to get through these times."

"...how long do I have to think about it."

"You ship out tomorrow.

I roll my eyes. "No promises. I've got the goods on twenty admirals to get me out of this."

Jean-Luc smiles. "No promises. Picard out."

I lean back in my chair and just sit in silence for a few minutes. "Computer, display all information and schematics for USS Enterprise, NCC 1701-F, ." A list of text and images scroll across the screen. This is just the public information. Nothing special. "Show all classified information, authorization: Vaughn, Omega-five-Gamma-Echo." Now some more interesting technical specs start scrolling. But I'm still not at the good stuff yet.

So I type in one of my personal clearance codes. The type of code that doesn't officially exist. And I use it to bring up all the beyond classified data. Everything that only the designers and builders know about. Specifications even the captains don't get to see.

"...good lord." I walk over to the replicator. "Bourbon, neat." I read on during the familiar buzzing of replication, then reach down, and empty the glass in one shot.

Sisko once said he designed the Defiant to fight the Borg. If I didn't know any better, I'd say Picard designed the Enterprise to fight the Defiant.

"And he's putting her in the hands of a rookie...?"


Now

The airlock opens, and I'm greeted with the standard whistle by the yeoman sent to greet me.

"Commander Vaugn," he says, snapping to attention.

"Permission to come aboard."

"Permission granted, sir."

"At ease, yeoman."

"Sir." He stands at ease. "Commander, the Captain wished to see you as soon as you boarded."

"Of course."

"Shall I take your bag, sir?"

I instinctively grip the strap of my satchel tighter. "No need, yeoman. I always carry this with me."

"Then I'll escort you to the captain, now."

"That's alright. I've already memorized the layout. I'll manage. Dismissed." The yeoman looks at me oddly for a second, then snaps to attention with a nod and walks off. "Computer, location of Captain Rourke."

"Captain Rourke is in his ready-room."

"Ok then." I head down the corridor to the turbolift and step inside. "Bridge." I wait a several seconds as the lift changes direction a couple of times. Then the doors open.

I can only stand there in awe as crewmen busily rush around, finishing up all those little things that need to be done before a maiden voyage. I hear a half dozen voices over speakers talking to a half-dozen people on the bridge. One of the crew members notices me and is about to say something, but I wave them off. They have more important things to worry about then announcing me.

I walk down the bridge to the ready room doors, take a small breathe, and then step forward, letting the computer rely my presence...

 

[The Question]

"That is one beautiful ship."

The large mass of operations division crewman, somewhere around 100, stood in rows or ten off to the side of the docking arm. Two, a Vulcan and an Andorian, walked up and down the rows. The Andorian was busy counting heads, while the Vulcan absent mindedly stared off at the ship that awaited them.

"Yes yes she's pretty as a picture," said the Andorian. "Where the HELL is Francis?"

"You seem so enthused, Sarge."

"We're about to embark on the flagship of the fleet and the boy's off screwing some hooker," muttered the Andorian. He turned to his Vulcan comrade.

"What were you saying?"

"I was talking about the work of art that is the ship we're about to go on. Not that you would care, you old ground pounder."

"I've never been much of a sailor, but I admit, she's a looker. But even if it wasn't my job to keep you knuckleheads in line I'd still be the one stuck doing it by default. No time for sightseeing."

A young crewman cam running up to the group, adjusting his uniform and trying to catch his breath. He stopped in front of the Andorian and saluted.

"Crewman Alfred Francis, reporting for duty sir!"

"What the hell, Francis?"

"I'm sorry, Chief. I was saying my goodbyes to my family and..."

"No you weren't. You were screwing a hooker."

"... well, I...."

"Just get in line."

Francis, quite embarrassed, shuffled into line with the others. The Andorian moved to the front of the crowd.

"Alright, listen up!" he said. "We're going to go through all the formal introductions and protocol **** with the senior staff when we get on board, but I want to say my piece first. It is an absolute honor to serve aboard The Enterprise. Admiral Picard realized that we're a strong and capable group and needed to be assigned to this ship together. He knows you've got the stuff, and so do I. I've seen it time and time and again over the years, going back to the war with some of you. So please: do not **** this up. I know the temptation is there, but it will make me look bad. And if I have to explain myself to some young punk of an officer who outside of the service I would be warning to stay the hell away from my daughter, I will be very angry and take it out on all of you. And on that note, when we meet our new head of security, please, do not make me look like an idiot. You all know I am very good at thinking of new and creative ways to hurt people. Now let's move out and get acquainted with the new boat, 'cause it's gonna be our home for a while."

The mass of crewman made their way to the airlock. They filled through, one by one, names checked off the crew manifest as they boarded the ship. The Andorian took a moment to look around the new ship, taking a deep breath.

"Home sweet home."

 

[AnorexicBatman]

Bellatrix came off the transporter pad to be greeted by the ensign at the controls. A few more, security staff obviously were waiting to take her luggage and perhaps show her around. "At ease crew. Take my luggage to my quarters. Take me to the captain."

An ensign smiled politely and escorted Bella to Turbolift 3 and proceeded to the bridge. None of the senior staff were to be found.

She spotted a young human male ensign and tapped him on the shoulder.
"Ensign! Where is the captain? I must speak with him. I am the new Cheif of Security and this ship's Tactical Officer"

The ensign was taken aback. The cold voice, the focussed stare, she was staring into his soul. "Uh... Welcome aboard... the captain should be in his ready room. " He said, shaking all the while. He had heard stories

"What's the matter? You seem pale. According Starfleet regulations you should report to Dr. McCoy, our chief medical officer if you are feeling ill."

The ensign wiped some sweat from his brow and tried to seem more professional, "It's allright ma'am. It's just that I have never served under a Romulan before... I mean... there's nothing worng with it... I..."
She raised her hand to stop him mid speech.

"It's all right ensign. Your new. I was once too. By the way, what's your name?"
"Ensign Daniel Schumaker, ma'am" he repied with all the professionalim he could muster.

"I'll keep an eye on you Daniel. Now if you'll excuse me..."
She walked away. Stoic as ever. Daniel wondered wether he had somehow offended her and wether he should prepare to be booted off. He hoped his first encounter with the rest would be better.

Going towards the ready room, she saw a beast of a human going in the same direction. She recignized him. Elis Vaughn. A legend in starfleet. He was one of the few humans considered to be truly dangerous by Romluan Intelligence. The fact that he was here meant there was more to the Enterprise-F than she thought.

It then hit her, this ship was incredibly powerful, armed with cloaking technology and the experimental Multi-Vector Assault Mode. The only reason she even knew what the latter was because some years ago, a few Romulan Commandoes had commandeered an experimental starfleet tactical vessel, the Prometheus. Surely, Vaughn had something to do with this.

"The Human-Romulan Allaince was built on trust. I hope the Captain keeps his end of the deal."

 

[Byrd Man]

Sick Bay


"Welcome aboard," the gray haired man says to the small group. Including him and myself, there are three doctors and six nurses.

The majority are human. But one of the doctors is a Deltan, and we have two nurses, one Orion and one Vulcan.

"We should be launching in the next hour or so. My name is Doctor Peters, and I will be the Chief Medical Officer for Enterprise. Before my commission to this ship I was an instructor at Starfleet Medical. I want you to know that I expect hard workers, and

I know Doctor Peters well. He was my Xenobiology professor just a few years prior. Truth be told, I never liked the man. He has all the doctor attitude with none of the skill. Just based on my two years in his class I know more about extraterrestrial species than he does. And I also believe that the man has a touch of a drinking problem. Regardless of that, he's now my commanding officer.

"We have three doctors and six nurses. Given that this ship has close a thousand crew members and civilians, there will be one doctor and two nurses on call at all times. Three eight hour shifts. I've picked them at random. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. shift will be myself, Nurse Caldwell, and Nurse Henshaw. From 4 p.m. to midnight will be Doctor Ire, Nurses Rucker and Tenan. And working midnight until 8 a.m. will be Doctor McCoy along with Nurses Johnson and Dera."

Great, graveyard shift.

"Since this in launch day, feel free to explore the ship and mingle with the crew. Tomorrow we'll begin."

Doctor Peters walks away, leaving the sick bay and the rest of us behind. The nurses and doctors start to scatter.

I prepare to leave when a cute brunette stops me and flashes a smile.

"Doctor McCoy. I'm Nurse Johnson," she says with a southern drawl.

"I really look forward to working under you."

"I don't like women working under me, Nurse Johnson. I prefer they work alongside me."

"What about working underneath women?"

The Orion nurse holds out her hand.

"I'm Nurse Dera."

We shake hands quickly.

"Tell me, Doctor. Are you related to the former Admrial McCoy?"

"He was my grandfather."

"Really? When I attended Starfleet Medical, I did my thesis on Admiral McCoy and his medical work aboard the original Enterprise."

"That's fascinating. Maybe you can tell us some of your grandfather's stories? I have a feeling we'll have a lot of free time on working nights."

I look between Johnson and Dera.

Well, the graveyard shift suddenly looks better.

 

[Johnny Blaze]

I walk down the bridge to the ready room doors, take a small breathe, and then step forward, letting the computer rely my presence...

The computer beeps, signifying somebody at the doors, so Rourke puts the personnel files on the back burner.

"Come in."

The doors swish open and in walks the imposing figure of Elias Vaughn. Johnathan had read about the man, as much as he was able considering all the missing years of information in his file from his days in Starfleet Intelligence.

But, what he did know was that Vaughn was one of, if not the, most experienced officer in Starfleet, and was a man who was not afraid to speak his mind on any matter. And that was something Rourke admired.

"Commander Vaughn", Rourke stood up and greeted the man as he entered the ready room, the doors closing behind him.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person", the Captain said as he moved around from his desk to stand before his First Officer.

 

[AnorexicBatman]

She saw Vaughn go into the ready room and followed suit

 

[wiegeabo]

The computer beeps, signifying somebody at the doors, so Rourke puts the personnel files on the back burner.

"Come in."

The doors swish open and in walks the imposing figure of Elias Vaughn. Johnathan had read about the man, as much as he was able considering all the missing years of information in his file from his days in Starfleet Intelligence.

But, what he did know was that Vaughn was one of, if not the, most experienced officer in Starfleet, and was a man who was not afraid to speak his mind on any matter. And that was something Rourke admired.

"Commander Vaughn", Rourke stood up and greeted the man as he entered the ready room, the doors closing behind him.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person", the Captain said as he moved around from his desk to stand before his First Officer.

"Captain Rourke." I shake his hand. "Admiral Picard's spoken highly of you." A single bell rings out and I glance at the grandfather clock, striking the half hour. The sight of the antique makes me grin and I nod towards it. "Nice touch."

 

[Johnny Blaze]

"Captain Rourke." I shake his hand. "Admiral Picard's spoken highly of you." A single bell rings out and I glance at the grandfather clock, striking the half hour. The sight of the antique makes me grin and I nod towards it. "Nice touch."

"Thank you, Commander. It's been in my family for a long time. Used to be in my grandfather's office at Starfleet HQ, but, after his death, it was left to me. I guess he figured, since I'm a big history buff, I'd take better care of it then my father."

"So, I take it you've read the specs on the ship and her crew? My father always said you were the most thorough bastard in all of Starfleet", Rourke smirks.

She saw Vaughn go into the ready room and followed suit

Rourke and Vaughn's attention turns to the door as the Chief of Security strides into the ready room.

"Commander Bellatrix", Rourke states.
"Usually one 'knocks' before simply barging in. Next time, make sure you do so, Commander."

"Now...welcome aboard. I'd like to introduce you to Elias Vaughn, the First Officer of the Enterprise. Commander Vaughn, this is Commander Bellatrix, our Chief of Security and Tactical Officer."

 

[AnorexicBatman]

Originally Posted Johnny Blaze

"Usually one 'knocks' before simply barging in. Next time, make sure you do so, Commander."

"Now...welcome aboard. I'd like to introduce you to Elias Vaughn, the First Officer of the Enterprise. Commander Vaughn, this is Commander Bellatrix, our Chief of Security and Tactical Officer."
__________________

She greets the two officers. To the point.

"A pleasure to meet you Commander Vaughn, Captain Rourke."

Bellatrix stands upright with hands firmly behind her back and voices her opinion,

"I sincerely apologize for the sudden intrusion however there have been certain... developments ... that have interested me.

(Glancing at Vaughn) I have heard of Mr. Vaughn, one of Starfleet's finest. That is what troubles me. I thought that this was a mere exploration vessel but there seems to be more here. This ship is more like a prototype War Vessel, much like the once classified Prometheus.

The presence of Mr. Vaughn whose entire career has been involved with Starfleet Intelligence and Covert Ops also suggests certain things I would rather not mention.

(Talking directly to Vaughn) I do not intend to insult you Commander, it's just that your reputation precedes you. If I seem suspicious it is because I expect to be told everything about the ship on which I serve as Senior Officer.

I hope nothing is being kept from me. I assure you my loyalties as of now are with Starfleet. The last thing I want to do is shame the Empire by sparking off a conflict."

 

[Johnny Blaze]

"You have nothing to worry about, Commander", Rourke replied.
"I assure you that you know as much as I, or the rest of the senior staff, does."

"With tensions at a high throughout the Quadrants, Starfleet decided it was best to outfit all new vessels with top of the line armaments. It's a dangerous galaxy out there, after all, and one can't be too careful."

The comm channel buzzed, and Rourke moved to his desk, pressing the button and opening the line of communication.

"Go ahead."

"Sir, I just wanted to inform you that all is in order. All crew is aboard and we are ready to depart."

"Excellent news, Mr. Cobb. Prepare to take us out."

The Captain cut the comm link and walked towards the door leading to the bridge.

"You coming", Rourke asked to his two Commanders with a smirk before turning and walking out onto the bridge.

 

[wiegeabo]

She greets the two officers. To the point.

"A pleasure to meet you Commander Vaughn, Captain Rourke."

Bellatrix stands upright with hands firmly behind her back and voices her opinion,

"I sincerely apologize for the sudden intrusion however there have been certain... developments ... that have interested me.

(Glancing at Vaughn) I have heard of Mr. Vaughn, one of Starfleet's finest. That is what troubles me. I thought that this was a mere exploration vessel but there seems to be more here. This ship is more like a prototype War Vessel, much like the once classified Prometheus.

The presence of Mr. Vaughn whose entire career has been involved with Starfleet Intelligence and Covert Ops also suggests certain things I would rather not mention.

(Talking directly to Vaughn) I do not intend to insult you Commander, it's just that your reputation precedes you. If I seem suspicious it is because I expect to be told everything about the ship on which I serve as Senior Officer.

I hope nothing is being kept from me. I assure you my loyalties as of now are with Starfleet. The last thing I want to do is shame the Empire by sparking off a conflict."

The captain and I stand there quietly while our tactical officer essentially chews us out. Once she's finished, we glance at each other for a moment before Rourke speaks up.

"You have nothing to worry about, Commander", Rourke replied.
"I assure you that you know as much as I, or the rest of the senior staff, does."

"With tensions at a high throughout the Quadrants, Starfleet decided it was best to outfit all new vessels with top of the line armaments. It's a dangerous galaxy out there, after all, and one can't be too careful."

The comm channel buzzed, and Rourke moved to his desk, pressing the button and opening the line of communication.

"Go ahead."

"Sir, I just wanted to inform you that all is in order. All crew is aboard and we are ready to depart."

"Excellent news, Mr. Cobb. Prepare to take us out."

The Captain cut the comm link and walked towards the door leading to the bridge.

"You coming", Rourke asked to his two Commanders with a smirk before turning and walking out onto the bridge.

"Of course, Captain." He steps outside, and Bellatrix follows. "A moment, Commander?"

She turns to me and I wait for the door to close behind her. When it does- "You were completely out of line, Commander!" I say with the right amount anger. "I don't know how they do things in the Romulan military, but in Starfleet, if you have a problem you go to the first officer, namely me. And we discuss it in private. Only then do you even consider bothering the Captain with your issues. He's got enough on his mind, much less having to deal with your concerns about this ship's mission. If you can't do things the Starfleet way, I'll be more than happy to endorse your transfer off this vessel. Do I make myself clear?"

 

[AnorexicBatman]

Originally Posted By wiegeabo

"Of course, Captain." He steps outside, and Bellatrix follows. "A moment, Commander?"

She turns to me and I wait for the door to close behind her. When it does- "You were completely out of line, Commander!" I say with the right amount anger. "I don't know how they do things in the Romulan military, but in Starfleet, if you have a problem you go to the first officer, namely me. And we discuss it in private. Only then do you even consider bothering the Captain with your issues. He's got enough on his mind, much less having to deal with your concerns about this ship's mission. If you can't do things the Starfleet way, I'll be more than happy to endorse your transfer off this vessel. Do I make myself clear?"

Rourke was surpirsingly patient and Vaughn gave her the exact reaction she expected.

She replies unflinchingly,
"You are right Commander, I was out of line, however sometimes complications can arise which must be adressed immidiately. As a Senior Officer, I have as much as a right as you to speak to the captain directly. I could have talked to him in private but you yourself were one of my concers. I wanted you to hear my concerns as well.

Thankfully, it does not seem Starfleet has been trying to pull the wool over my eyes. We are still docked and I am sure some leeway can be given to the crew in terms of etiquette especillay the Senior Officer's.

I know you like to run a tight ship and I assure you, no one is as skilled in enforcing strict disipline as I am.

Thank you for your time and I hope our future encounters will be smoother."

She turns and leaves. Feeling slightly ashamed of herslef for being so reckless and that too on the first day but she would not dare show weakness, especially to someone like Vaughn.

 

[wiegeabo]

Rourke was surpirsingly patient and Vaughn gave her the exact reaction she expected.

She replies unflinchingly,
"You are right Commander, I was out of line, however sometimes complications can arise which must be adressed immidiately. As a Senior Officer, I have as much as a right as you to speak to the captain directly. I could have talked to him in private but you yourself were one of my concers. I wanted you to hear my concerns as well.

Thankfully, it does not seem Starfleet has been trying to pull the wool over my eyes. We are still docked and I am sure some leeway can be given to the crew in terms of etiquette especillay the Senior Officer's.

I know you like to run a tight ship and I assure you, no one is as skilled in enforcing strict disipline as I am.

Thank you for your time and I hope our future encounters will be smoother."

She turns and leaves. Feeling slightly ashamed of herslef for being so reckless and that too on the first day but she would not dare show weakness, especially to someone like Vaughn.

Bellatrix steps out of the room, the doors closing, leaving me alone. I grin.

"Oh, I like her."

I glance over at the grandfather clock as it ticks away. "Time to get to work."

I step out onto the bridge...

 

[Franklin Richards]

Bridge of the U.S.S. Enterprise


"And Mr. Prescot, I'll need a blue viewer circa 2261 installed into Science Station II. I'll need that by 1200 hours. Please reroute all functions for that station directly into the Ops station. I expect these two positions to work as if I can utilize both of them at the same time. And as far as you're concerned I can. Understood?"

"Yes sir!"

"Dismissed."

The gold shirted crewman turns to go.

"Oh and Chief... Thank you again."

"My pleasure ma'---uh sir."

Puk inspects both stations. Science Station II was just a few steps away from Ops. Both were on the port side of the bridge. At one point Puk forgets herself and stretches her arm five meters to access Ops from her other station. A roaming yeomen's eyes widen at the feat.


"Ooooh yeah. Sorry bout that sug."


Puk turns her attention to the user interface for the main sensor array.

 

[AnorexicBatman]

Please listen to this song while reading. Also, occasionally lens flaring yourself with a flash light is also recommended.

Bellatrix walks into the bridge only to be blinded by a sudden burst of light. The sun was coming up and the view screen was staring right at it. One ensign screams, "Oh god!! Polarize the view screen! We are very sorry."

It was Daniel again.

An electrical discharge occurs on the screen effectively reducing the light intensity. You'd think that it would be automatic by now, however in low light conditions polarizing the screen makes it too dark to see.

She saw Rourke nearby, rubbing his eyes. Proceeding to her console she makes an announcement, specifically to the security team,
"This is Chief Tactical Officer Bellatrix speaking. We will we leaving dock in a few moments and before that I would like a meeting with the security staff. The Chief Petty Officer and his team will meet me in the security station. That is all."

 

[wiegeabo]

As we take our positions on the bridge, I notice the Ensign's look of utter embarrassment. "It's ok, son," I whisper. "No harm done. Just don't let it happen again."

The kid brightens up instantly. "Yes, sir. I mean, no sir! I mean..."

"Just get to your station, Ensign."

"Yes, sir. Thank you sir," he says with relief, rushing to the back of the bridge.

"Just out of the Academy?" I quietly ask Rourke.

 

[Byrd Man]

Level 12

"Doctor McCoy," Doctor Peters says as he walks up to me. Stumbling appears to be a better description. I'd say he's currently two and a half sheets into the wind.

"I was just down in the galley..cele-...ahem, celebrating the departure of the new ship."

And I guess last night you were celebrating the fact that the sun went down? And the night before, and the night before that.

"It's a celebration worthy event."

"Indeed it is. Take a walk with me, I have something I want to discuss."

I follow Peters' swevering footsteps down the hallways, doing my best to make sure he doesn't run into the wall.

"You may not know this, but I remember you from my Starfleet Med. class and I remember your reputation. You're a bit of a know-it-all, but that's to be expected with younger doctors."

I guess a young know-it-all is worse than an old one?

"So let me say this right now: This is my medical staff and I am your superior."

He shoves me against the wall and I catch the full stench of booze. It makes my eyes water.

"I don't care what ship we're on who your granddaddy was, you answer to me."

Even though I'm a better doctor, smarter than you, and don't drink booze like a fish drinks water?

"I understand, sir."

"Good. I'm reporting to the bridge. The captain wants the Chief Medical Officer to report to the bridge for a briefing. As second in command, you'll go back to the sick bay and cover my shift."

Sure thing, Dr. Jack Daniels.

"Yes, sir."

Peters smiles and weaves away. I watch as he climbs into the turbolift and disappears behind the doors.

I just shake my head and turn back towards the sick bay.

 

[The Question]

The security station, while quite large, was not designed for the entire security force to be present at one time. Just over one hundred crewmen bunched together, bumping elbows and generally wanting to either get to work or go back to their quarters.

Senor Chief Petty Officer Tarkon Amoni, the highest ranking man in the room, spoke to his subordinates.

"Everyone try and clear a path. We don't want to make out new CO feel unwelcome."

 

[wiegeabo]

As the Ensign dashes off to his position, I take my seat and activate my console. "All department heads, this is the First Officer. Report readiness for launch."

I watch as department after department turns green with signals of readiness. I hear the turbolift doors open and see Doctor Peters step onto the bridge. "Medical ready for departure," he reports, his voice sounding somewhat unsteady. I give him a long glance and he seems...off. And I know it's not my imagination. I can tell when someone isn't themselves, even if I hadn't met them before. If I didn't know better, I'd think he had been drinking.

"Medical reporting ready, Captain," I confirm. "Waiting only on Security and Engineering, sir."