S5: E: 8 Echos of a Tattered Past.

[Nira Said]

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

With the course laid in and the ship humming along at warp seven, there was no longer a reason for Ian to be on the bridge, especially with the mound of datawork he had waiting for him, thus he stood and said.

"Nira, you have the bridge, try ta nae scratch the paint. I will be in my ready room."

Ian then entered his office and began to tuck into the various reports and evaluations awaiting his attention.

[Bridge - Tactical Station - USS Challenger]

In her typically formal manner of speaking, T'Kel said.

"It is only logical that you be fully familiar with the ship's main tactical station Ensign. It is only prudent to be prepared for all contingencies regardless of your current rank and experience. More senior officers are naturally more likely to take over at Tactical than you, but with the uncertainty of casualty distribution, the normal chain of command could be interrupted and you could find yourself manning this station. It is therefore incumbent on me to insure you are prepared to take on that responsibility."

[Bridge | USS Challenger]

Buck glanced around the bridge, occasionally but frequently. He wanted to learn how the senior leaders led their teams, how they interacted with one another as he proceeded to run tests and analytics on operating systems all over the ship. The engineers on 157 seemed to be rather decent people; they all chipped in and the conversations he had with them in the canteen was something to listen to and to take on board, of course even with that being the case, he could not rely on it being 100 percent up to scratch.

He ran his fingers over the screen, allowing himself to take in the status of the various components of the Challenger. There had been some upgrades according to the manifest and he had to make sure that they all had synced and aligned themselves with the ship. Crunching numbers hadn't been something he had a particular astounding skill in but he was good enough to see that they were all seeing green and gave a small half-smile as he glanced to the view screen of space passing them by.

[Engineering - Robotics Lab - USS Challenger]

"Oh hi, Hyperion.  You're welcome to listen in on the question and add your thoughts to it if you like although I'm thinking of it as a sort of 'project' for Lahr which might, one - get him out of this Broom Cupboard a bit, legitimately and two, have him closer to me so his ... how did you put it mood indicators will be more vertical for a few months, that is if I can get it cleared with Tharn.  Basically, I'm going to throw the idea at Lahr and see if he thinks we could run with it!.. before fielding it to Tharn!"

[USS Challenger - Engineering - Deck 13 -  Lab off of Main Engineering  (aka 'The Broom Closet')]

"Well, like I say... I have noticed and if an AI - no offence meant Hyperion - recognises that your mood is 'off' then someone who gets to see you a lot more well it's plain as looking at a mirror and seeing my face... you really don't appreciate being shut down here."

She looked around and gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

Walking along she grinned at his subterfuge at trying to get Hyperion to play I Spy.

"You know we have a Cetacean Lab? Well I was wondering if we could have a robotic dolphin which could do any vet work we need, observe the dolphins closer and so on.  I know we can 'talk' to them but to actually be able to get in and interact with them more closely.  I dunno it's just an idea..."

She tailed off realising the AI was taking a more than curious interest in the conversation.

"That's the other thing... could I please have a timetable of when Hyperion is going to be in anything Scientific.  Some of my staff aren't entirely happy with an AI when he just 'shows up'.  If we know he's going to be around it's fine.  I'm ok with it but I need to keep my staff happy and I'm not sure if he comes under Science, Engineering or a law unto himself called 'Robotics'!  I just need to know where I stand.  There's other stuff but that's more personal and we're on duty so I'll talk to you about that later.  It's totally unrelated to this." Ruth said with a weary smile.

"Everything has changed but we do have Nira here, and that's something I really need to address after this.  So... do you think you could 'escape' to the Aquatics Lab now and then if you want a break, see if Robotics couldn't fit in there somehow?"

[Ensign Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas | USS Challenger | Bridge]

As his first proper assignment upon the USS Challenger, Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas, Caitian Security Ensign for the Federation, was currently learning through experience within the bridge. Found just behind Lieutenant T'Kel, his superior, he was avidly gazing at the tactical console, making sure to take in every detail as best as he could. His ears were positioned towards both the Lieutenant and the console, though they seemed ready to pivot towards the Captain in case anything else occurred, The small stay at Starbase 157 had allowed him to familiarize himself better with the ship, but he still had much to learn.

Whatever had happened on his previous assignment was a blur, though he was pretty sure he had not been on the ship. Still, he had a feeling that something fantastical had transpired recently. He remembered a kind Grazerite woman dressed in fine clothes that smiled at him, and a fae telling him he could recognize a 'Summer's Night Dream'. Also, a spooky King that spoke of rekindling a bonfire invaluable to the fae. Or something like that.

He chastised himself internally as he momentarily lost track of the console, deep in thought. It vexed him though, and he wanted answers as to why he had such fuzzy memoirs. Not the time and place, though. It didn't help that the ship's soft hum as it entered warp was oddly relaxing to him. He was used to noise and movement, as the Orion ships he once was transported in had proven much rockier than the much sleeker ships of the Federation. And he had the need to adapt to them.

Of course, he couldn't say that he wanted to be back in one...

Oh, there he was again. Focus, Zhuk, focus.

"I appreciate the chance of being allowed to obtain first-hand experience in such a manner, by the by, Lieutenant T'Kel" Came the comment from Zhukdra'shar, perhaps a little suddenly. Maybe keeping a conversation with a logical and measure Vulcan would aid him on remaining cool himself. He had to be ready in case danger appeared, after all.

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

"Aye, sir," said Nira. And so she took the Big Chair as Captain Galloway stepped into his ready room. She felt, in a way, awed to be in this chair. She didn't recall a time she ever manned the chair on Discovery. And it was certainly her first time on the chair.

She thought of pulling up holo screens when she remembered that the Challenger didn't have any. She shrugged and thought of what to do. It was only a few days to Kaimo. Well...may as well start with the basics. She did remember that departmental heads reported to the First Officer...she should know, she used to be one.

"Said to all departmental heads," called Nira. "Status report. Everything within normal parameters?"

She figured to start with the basics, provide a status. She looked especially at some of the lower officers, like Misters McNair and Zhuk, to see how well they can assist their departmental heads in their status reports.

While she waited, she decided to check the duty roster for the ship. A named jumped out at her. Hyperion. Who or what was Hyperion, she wondered.

[T’prith]

[bridge-USS Challenger]

T'Prith was at the environmental control station assisting the department head in making sure that everything there was working properly. She figured that she could help the department head in the status report alongside the other operations officers and engineers. If there was something that she was missing then then she would tend to that and make sure that it was taken care of. Her main goal was getting a normal status report that the department head could give to the first officer. Of course she looked forward to getting to know the other officers and how they work on the ship.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck 13 - outside Robotics Lab]

[Engineering - Robotics Lab - USS Challenger]

"Oh hi, Hyperion.  You're welcome to listen in on the question and add your thoughts to it if you like although I'm thinking of it as a sort of 'project' for Lahr which might, one - get him out of this Broom Cupboard a bit, legitimately and two, have him closer to me so his ... how did you put it mood indicators will be more vertical for a few months, that is if I can get it cleared with Tharn.  Basically, I'm going to throw the idea at Lahr and see if he thinks we could run with it!.. before fielding it to Tharn!"

[USS Challenger - Engineering - Deck 13 -  Lab off of Main Engineering  (aka 'The Broom Closet')]

"Well, like I say... I have noticed and if an AI - no offence meant Hyperion - recognises that your mood is 'off' then someone who gets to see you a lot more well it's plain as looking at a mirror and seeing my face... you really don't appreciate being shut down here."

She looked around and gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

"That's all I get?  A peck on the cheek?  Is it any wonder that my antennae are ... " he cleared his throat.  "Fine.  I'll take what attention I can get." He gave Ruth a suffering look.  "Just saying... I've had a more intimate kiss than that from Skye this morning"

Ruth's dog had been overly amorous this morning while Lahr was head down leaning over to pull on his boots before work.  Lahr shuddered at the rememberance.  Dog slobber kisses.

[Engineering - Robotics Lab - USS Challenger]

Hyperion took in Lahr's comments and had to scan his database to find the meaning of "I Spy" before he replied in the same new voice.

"My humanoid behavior algorithm deduces at 86% that you are engaged in some sort of subterfuge with this 'I Spy' task. Logic would dictate you wish to distract me from your conversation with Commander Sigursdottir. Rather than engaging in this task, I will ensure the calibration of my sensors via a self diagnostic and proceed to Astrometrics to assist with scanning the Kaimo system."

Ruth's hinted project did catch Lahr's interest.  Typically, if Ruth thought something was of value or importance, then it usually was... and Lahr didn't even think to argue that.   He was curious, especially when she noted that it would have them working together.

Lahr hadn't thought that was a possibility but apparently it was.

Lahr snorted at how quickly the AI had figured out about his distraction.  Yet before Hyperion could follow through on his desire to leave for Astrometrics Ruth had a question about Hyperion's duties.

Walking along she grinned at his subterfuge at trying to get Hyperion to play I Spy.

"You know we have a Cetacean Lab? Well I was wondering if we could have a robotic dolphin which could do any vet work we need, observe the dolphins closer and so on.  I know we can 'talk' to them but to actually be able to get in and interact with them more closely.  I dunno it's just an idea..."

She tailed off realising the AI was taking a more than curious interest in the conversation.

"That's the other thing... could I please have a timetable of when Hyperion is going to be in anything Scientific.  Some of my staff aren't entirely happy with an AI when he just 'shows up'.  If we know he's going to be around it's fine.  I'm ok with it but I need to keep my staff happy and I'm not sure if he comes under Science, Engineering or a law unto himself called 'Robotics'!  I just need to know where I stand.  There's other stuff but that's more personal and we're on duty so I'll talk to you about that later.  It's totally unrelated to this." Ruth said with a weary smile.

"Everything has changed but we do have Nira here, and that's something I really need to address after this.  So... do you think you could 'escape' to the Aquatics Lab now and then if you want a break, see if Robotics couldn't fit in there somehow?"

A robotic dolphin?  Did Ruth mean she wanted him to build a while new AI? That wasn't gonna happen! Hyperion was a one of kind find.  A deep space probe that went far beyond its anticipated capabilities.

As for vet work... he would have thought that most of that would be best done by one of the dolphin handlers and care-takers.   Maybe Ruth just wanted a simple assistant-type robot.  Basic program and such, but Lahr had reservations about even that.  He'd seen many a sci-fi horror holo about the shipboard AI gone mad due to the injustices of robotic-kind.   Yeah, let's not tempt fate.

Oh... but maybe the robotic dolphin could be just an extension of Hyperion?  Mmm, that had possibilities.  "I'll bring up the idea with Lieutenant Commander Tharn." Lahr promised.   Hyperion meanwhile responded to Ruth's comments as well.

[Engineering - Robotics Lab - USS Challenger]

As Hyperion's face was incapable of expression, it was impossible to know what he was thinking even when he canted his head, which he was not doing at the moment.

"Commander. My primary function aboard the ship is astrometrics, which is clearly part of the science department. I've been assigned to Engineering mainly for accountability and I suppose should I sustain damage, that engineering personnel would have a better chance of repairing me than the Medical department, thus from an efficiency point of view, my assignment to Engineering is logical.

"However, as my normal duty station is Astrometrics, I must therefore, in response to your query regarding my 'timetable of when Hyperion is going to be in anything Scientific' is now as I am in the process of reporting to Astrometrics as soon as I am dismissed.

"As Lieutenant Commander Tharn is also perplexed about my presence, she has given me full autonomy to work in Astrometrics whenever I chose. At least that is how I interpret her 'I don't care what it does as long as it stays out of my way' comment.

"Thus, unless you have anything else for me Commander, am I free to depart for my assigned place of duty?"

Lahr choked back a snicker at hearing Commander Tharn's comment.   Seems it wasn't just Lahr that the Tellerite  'couldn't be bothered with'.     Unfortunately, the AI got more autonomy that even its handler.    Guess that's what Lahr got for going enlisted.   Hyperion, as an AI consultant held duties and responsibilities on par with an officer. Yeah, even the robot was ranked higher than him, despite his being one of the long-standing crewmembers of Challenger - around for nearly 4 years now.

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

"Said to all departmental heads," called Nira. "Status report. Everything within normal parameters?"

The call from the Bridge sounded from Ruth's commbadge.

"Guess that's your cue to leave," Lahr lamented.  He didn't mention that with Hyperion heading off to Astrometrics, he was now obligated to go assist with general maintenance in Main Engineering.  To keep Ruth from worrying about him, he smiled wide and concentrated on keeping his antennae upright. "I'll see you around Commander.  I should get back to work."

He could have left it at that but Lahr needed to add in one humorous quip so that Ruth wouldn't worry about him.  "Tell the Captain, that I'll try not break anything while I'm down here, and that it'll be another day or so before the DJ booth is set up and I'm able to take song requests, so he'll have to be patient and avoid getting into any battles with the Romulans until then."  He waggled his antennae as commented this, then gave a wave before turning towards Main Engineering.

He hoped his acting was good enough that Ruth would never know how much he was dreading work. 

[Buck McNair]

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

"Aye, sir," said Nira. And so she took the Big Chair as Captain Galloway stepped into his ready room. She felt, in a way, awed to be in this chair. She didn't recall a time she ever manned the chair on Discovery. And it was certainly her first time on the chair.

She thought of pulling up holo screens when she remembered that the Challenger didn't have any. She shrugged and thought of what to do. It was only a few days to Kaimo. Well...may as well start with the basics. She did remember that departmental heads reported to the First Officer...she should know, she used to be one.

"Said to all departmental heads," called Nira. "Status report. Everything within normal parameters?"

She figured to start with the basics, provide a status. She looked especially at some of the lower officers, like Misters McNair and Zhuk, to see how well they can assist their departmental heads in their status reports.

[bridge-USS Challenger]

T'Prith was at the environmental control station assisting the department head in making sure that everything there was working properly. She figured that she could help the department head in the status report alongside the other operations officers and engineers. If there was something that she was missing then then she would tend to that and make sure that it was taken care of. Her main goal was getting a normal status report that the department head could give to the first officer. Of course she looked forward to getting to know the other officers and how they work on the ship.

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

Whilst Buck knew and recognised his position within the Operations chain of command, he was on the bridge filling in for LTCMDR CatalÁ¡n and such rose his head when the XO inquired about a status report. He waited a moment as he listened to the others. "Everything is operationally green, just sorting out the last remnants of what the grease monkeys had done upgrade wise"""œ Buck's fingers flew across the screen, swiping at the messages being sent in. He glanced over to T'Prith and motioned towards her. "Anything on your end, T'Prith?"

He hoped that he had pronounced her name correctly, it was on the easier to pronounce but he could never be too certain that his accent hadn't mangled it. Buck hadn't spotted Teron, but he assumed that the man was around the ship somewhere sorting out their duties away from the bridge.

Or so the hope went.

[Ian Galloway]

[USS Challenger - Otorin Sector - En Route to Kaimo System]

As was her way, the Challenger serenely moved outside of Einsteinian space enveloped by the cocoon of the warp field that allowed her to do the impossible of traveling faster than light.

As was her way, as the Challenger traveled, she didn't give a thought to the inhabitants aboard her. She knew they were essential to her staying in proper operating order, but their hopes, dreams, wishes, and thoughts were immaterial to the starship. All that matter was performing the task set before her to reach a set of coordinated within the boundless vastness of space.

On board the Challenger, as was his way, Ian Galloway walked along the various corridors of the ship to stop and visit the various departments of the ship. Mainly to keep himself occupied during the otherwise tedium of traveling at warp which didn't require his input once a course was given. However, he visited the ship's departments to learn more about the crew's hopes, dreams, wishes, and thoughts so that he might understand their motivations better. In addition, by visiting every deck of the ship, he got to see the various projects currently being studied and, truth be told, it let the crew know that the Captain had 'eyes on' even the most remote parts of the ship. This reinforced the adage of "œinspect what you expect".

After swinging by all the major departments of the ship as well as those out of the way places that usually get ignored, Ian stopped by the his favorite part of the ship, the Cetacean Lab on Deck 8 to visit the three navigation specialists Miriam, Sarah, and Ruth.

"Good mornin' ta you ladies! I trust you are well."

Sarah: "œCaptain!"
Miriam: "œCaptain!"
Ruth: "Captain!"

As the three swam over, Miriam, the most playful of the three, slapped a fluke in the water, which splashed Ian.

"You vixen!" Ian sputtered as he wiped the water off of his face. "What am I supposed ta do with you? I wouldn't do that ta our new first officer, she doesna ken you like I do."

"œCaptain, I'd never!" The unrepentant dolphin replied.

"Aye Lass, ye would. Now enough of this tomfoolery. Is all well?"

"œYes Captain, all is well. The Ortorin sector is most interesting. Will you be joining us in the tank today?"

"I believe I can make time for that. We're at warp and a good 36 hours from our destination. I believe I can manage a wee bit o' time with my best girls."

"Best girls you say? And what would Lieutenant Fellows say about that?"

"And how do you busybodies ken about Jessica?"

"œThere are no secrets on a starship Captain."

"Well, you got me there as truer words have never been spoken. I promise ta return within the hour."

The three dolphins emitted a series of squeaks and clicks in delight and returned to their duties as Ian departed.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck 13 - outside Robotics Lab]

"That's all I get?  A peck on the cheek?  Is it any wonder that my antennae are ... " he cleared his throat.  "Fine.  I'll take what attention I can get." He gave Ruth a suffering look.  "Just saying... I've had a more intimate kiss than that from Skye this morning"

Ruth's dog had been overly amorous this morning while Lahr was head down leaning over to pull on his boots before work.  Lahr shuddered at the rememberance.  Dog slobber kisses.

Ruth's hinted project did catch Lahr's interest.  Typically, if Ruth thought something was of value or importance, then it usually was... and Lahr didn't even think to argue that.   He was curious, especially when she noted that it would have them working together.

Lahr hadn't thought that was a possibility but apparently it was.

Lahr snorted at how quickly the AI had figured out about his distraction.  Yet before Hyperion could follow through on his desire to leave for Astrometrics Ruth had a question about Hyperion's duties.

A robotic dolphin?  Did Ruth mean she wanted him to build a while new AI? That wasn't gonna happen! Hyperion was a one of kind find.  A deep space probe that went far beyond its anticipated capabilities.

As for vet work... he would have thought that most of that would be best done by one of the dolphin handlers and care-takers.   Maybe Ruth just wanted a simple assistant-type robot.  Basic program and such, but Lahr had reservations about even that.  He'd seen many a sci-fi horror holo about the shipboard AI gone mad due to the injustices of robotic-kind.   Yeah, let's not tempt fate.

Oh... but maybe the robotic dolphin could be just an extension of Hyperion?  Mmm, that had possibilities.  "I'll bring up the idea with Lieutenant Commander Tharn." Lahr promised.   Hyperion meanwhile responded to Ruth's comments as well.

Lahr choked back a snicker at hearing Commander Tharn's comment.   Seems it wasn't just Lahr that the Tellerite  'couldn't be bothered with'.     Unfortunately, the AI got more autonomy that even its handler.    Guess that's what Lahr got for going enlisted.   Hyperion, as an AI consultant held duties and responsibilities on par with an officer. Yeah, even the robot was ranked higher than him, despite his being one of the long-standing crewmembers of Challenger - around for nearly 4 years now.

The call from the Bridge sounded from Ruth's commbadge.

"Guess that's your cue to leave," Lahr lamented.  He didn't mention that with Hyperion heading off to Astrometrics, he was now obligated to go assist with general maintenance in Main Engineering.  To keep Ruth from worrying about him, he smiled wide and concentrated on keeping his antennae upright. "I'll see you around Commander.  I should get back to work."

He could have left it at that but Lahr needed to add in one humorous quip so that Ruth wouldn't worry about him.  "Tell the Captain, that I'll try not break anything while I'm down here, and that it'll be another day or so before the DJ booth is set up and I'm able to take song requests, so he'll have to be patient and avoid getting into any battles with the Romulans until then."  He waggled his antennae as commented this, then gave a wave before turning towards Main Engineering.

He hoped his acting was good enough that Ruth would never know how much he was dreading work.

[USS Challenger - Deck 13 - outside Robotics Lab]

Ruth giggled at the thought of Skye kissing Lahr.  "But she loves her 'Daddy'!!" she said with a grin. "I'm on duty at the moment, but I'll make up for it later.  I should set an example after all!"

"And yes Hyperion, it's totally fine with me that you're in Astrometrics.  I mean with your paintwork it's not like people can't see you coming, they shouldn't really be surprised that you're around and I'm happy to have you work in my department.  I'll just reassign anyone who decides they can't work with you or feels really uncomfortable... reassign to scrubbing the outside of the hull with a toothbrush."

Her eyes found Lahr's and she gave a wink, knowing he'd understand where she got that idea from, the one, the only, Chief Lek!

When Nira's communication came through she gave a wry smile and said "Yeah I guess..." to Lahr's question.  "Think on what I said... it's open to alteration, just I know you don't like being down here too much and I have always liked to encourage co-operation between the departments."

Tapping her commbadge she smiled at hearing Nira's voice and hoped they could have some longer chats at some point.

Sigurdsdottir to Bridge I'm on my way up but before a slight detour to Engineering, my department was working well within normal parameters. And I've got Hyperion off to Astrometrics so they'll be operating well above normal. Be there in three, Sigurdsdottir out. 

"Well I have to depart.  Farewell sweet prince, parting is such sweet sorrow... or something suitably stupid.  Tho that's Shakespeare, far from stupid...and I believe about someone who died if memory serves... so don't go dying." Ruth said.  Grinning at Lahr's comment about the DJ booth.  "You can still send Ride of the Valkyries through to my earbuds if I have to go into battle, or the Mjolnir's sound system.  Captain Galloway knows I have a preference to that particular birdie, so if he needs an extra helmsman I would fight... and people know about my prowess with axes... for the right to take 'my' ship out!  Laters babe!  And..." she put on an overly exaggerated sexy look, raising her eyebrows.  "later...babes!" her look indicating 'Promises, promises'

[Bridge - USS Challenger

Entering the Bridge as the turbolift doors opened with a swish, Ruth put on a bright smile and prepared to report the message from Lahr, but then saw that unless Ian had had some rather radical surgery, it wasn't him in the centre seat.

"Two things, first from Petty Officer ch'Verret for the Captain, I'm to relay that but I'll do it later since he's not here.  I still can't believe he named a dolphin after me. But that's Ian for you!"

"The second is... Lt. Commander Said, welcome to the Challenger!  I always said you'd go far, and well, you're on the best ship ever now, I may be ever so slightly biased!" she added making a gesture with her thumb and forefinger measuring about an inch.

"So... what's happening, anything interesting out there? We got time for a chat to catch up?"  She indicated the 'spare' seat and raised an enquiring eyebrow.

[Nira Said]

[USS Challenger - Deck 13 - outside Robotics Lab]

Ruth giggled at the thought of Skye kissing Lahr.  "But she loves her 'Daddy'!!" she said with a grin. "I'm on duty at the moment, but I'll make up for it later.  I should set an example after all!"

"And yes Hyperion, it's totally fine with me that you're in Astrometrics.  I mean with your paintwork it's not like people can't see you coming, they shouldn't really be surprised that you're around and I'm happy to have you work in my department.  I'll just reassign anyone who decides they can't work with you or feels really uncomfortable... reassign to scrubbing the outside of the hull with a toothbrush."

Her eyes found Lahr's and she gave a wink, knowing he'd understand where she got that idea from, the one, the only, Chief Lek!

When Nira's communication came through she gave a wry smile and said "Yeah I guess..." to Lahr's question.  "Think on what I said... it's open to alteration, just I know you don't like being down here too much and I have always liked to encourage co-operation between the departments."

Tapping her commbadge she smiled at hearing Nira's voice and hoped they could have some longer chats at some point.

Sigurdsdottir to Bridge I'm on my way up but before a slight detour to Engineering, my department was working well within normal parameters. And I've got Hyperion off to Astrometrics so they'll be operating well above normal. Be there in three, Sigurdsdottir out. 

"Well I have to depart.  Farewell sweet prince, parting is such sweet sorrow... or something suitably stupid.  Tho that's Shakespeare, far from stupid...and I believe about someone who died if memory serves... so don't go dying." Ruth said.  Grinning at Lahr's comment about the DJ booth.  "You can still send Ride of the Valkyries through to my earbuds if I have to go into battle, or the Mjolnir's sound system.  Captain Galloway knows I have a preference to that particular birdie, so if he needs an extra helmsman I would fight... and people know about my prowess with axes... for the right to take 'my' ship out!  Laters babe!  And..." she put on an overly exaggerated sexy look, raising her eyebrows.  "later...babes!" her look indicating 'Promises, promises'

[Bridge - USS Challenger

Entering the Bridge as the turbolift doors opened with a swish, Ruth put on a bright smile and prepared to report the message from Lahr, but then saw that unless Ian had had some rather radical surgery, it wasn't him in the centre seat.

"Two things, first from Petty Officer ch'Verret for the Captain, I'm to relay that but I'll do it later since he's not here.  I still can't believe he named a dolphin after me. But that's Ian for you!"

"The second is... Lt. Commander Said, welcome to the Challenger!  I always said you'd go far, and well, you're on the best ship ever now, I may be ever so slightly biased!" she added making a gesture with her thumb and forefinger measuring about an inch.

"So... what's happening, anything interesting out there? We got time for a chat to catch up?"  She indicated the 'spare' seat and raised an inquiring eyebrow.

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

Nira looked up at hearing Ruth's voice. As much as it was good to hear her again, it also made her wonder who was this Hyperion in the Astrometrics. She returned back and got her replies from the other departmental heads, indicating everything was within normal parameters.

She had just finished when she heard Ruth's voice again, and she looked up and saw her face to face. Nira couldn't help but smile at her, it had to have been a year, maybe almost three, since they last saw each other face to face. She corresponded with transmissions, but it just wasn't the same. Nira did put on a perplexed expression when Ruth said she was passing on a message from the Captain.

"Good to see you, too, Commander," said Nira. "And thank you so much. Yes, we've got the time, we're still a few days from the Kaimo system..."

She nodded at Ruth to sit in the First Officer's chair, now that she wasn't occupying it at the moment. It would make some sense to Nira; Ruth technically ranked higher than Nira, but because she was in charge of the science department, Nira felt it would technically make Ruth Second Officer.

"I may need to conduct a more thorough inspection of the ship later," said Nira. "I am, after all, new to the job. It's been a few days. Just a way to get to know the ship more. I'll be sure to let...well, Ian," she added, given she would be on duty, but Nira knew Captain Galloway enough that she could use his first name, and Ruth seemed a lot more familiar to him, but then again, they served around each other longer. "I'll be sure to tell him that Mister ch'Verret told you to pass it to him.

"I am curious about a few things, though," she added to Ruth. "Who's this Hyperion? I'm presuming an android crewmember, given the synthoid ban is lifted. And also...dolphin?" she asked, her expression furrowed in befuddlement.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger - Deck 13 - outside Robotics Lab]

[USS Challenger - Deck 13 - outside Robotics Lab]

Ruth giggled at the thought of Skye kissing Lahr.  "But she loves her 'Daddy'!!" she said with a grin. "I'm on duty at the moment, but I'll make up for it later.  I should set an example after all!"

"And yes Hyperion, it's totally fine with me that you're in Astrometrics.  I mean with your paintwork it's not like people can't see you coming, they shouldn't really be surprised that you're around and I'm happy to have you work in my department.  I'll just reassign anyone who decides they can't work with you or feels really uncomfortable... reassign to scrubbing the outside of the hull with a toothbrush."

Her eyes found Lahr's and she gave a wink, knowing he'd understand where she got that idea from, the one, the only, Chief Lek!

When Nira's communication came through she gave a wry smile and said "Yeah I guess..." to Lahr's question.  "Think on what I said... it's open to alteration, just I know you don't like being down here too much and I have always liked to encourage co-operation between the departments."

Tapping her commbadge she smiled at hearing Nira's voice and hoped they could have some longer chats at some point.

Sigurdsdottir to Bridge I'm on my way up but before a slight detour to Engineering, my department was working well within normal parameters. And I've got Hyperion off to Astrometrics so they'll be operating well above normal. Be there in three, Sigurdsdottir out. 

"Well I have to depart.  Farewell sweet prince, parting is such sweet sorrow... or something suitably stupid.  Tho that's Shakespeare, far from stupid...and I believe about someone who died if memory serves... so don't go dying." Ruth said.  Grinning at Lahr's comment about the DJ booth.  "You can still send Ride of the Valkyries through to my earbuds if I have to go into battle, or the Mjolnir's sound system.  Captain Galloway knows I have a preference to that particular birdie, so if he needs an extra helmsman I would fight... and people know about my prowess with axes... for the right to take 'my' ship out!  Laters babe!  And..." she put on an overly exaggerated sexy look, raising her eyebrows.  "later...babes!" her look indicating 'Promises, promises'

Quoting Shakespeare.  Lahr would not have thought that of Ruth, but then she did tend to the eccentric.  Ruth's preference for axes was exactly that.

Hurrying, Lahr managed to make his way to Main Engineering.   As the Andorian arrived, he overheard Lt. Commander Tharn calling up to the Bridge with her reply for the status report.

"All systems show green across the board."

Despite Lahr's not saying a word, Tharn took note of his late arrival and cast a glare the Andorian's way.

"Hyperion is on his way to Astrometrics... that leaves me free to help here." Lahr pointed out redundantly.

Tharn rolled her eyes then glanced to her PADD which showed a list of all the tasks needing to be dealt with today.   Her glance skimmed down the list, to almost the very bottom. "You can spend the day learning the ins and outs of the waste recycler on Deck 12.   I want a full system maintenance of the unit by end of day."

Of course, poop detail for newbie in Engineering.   "Yes ma'am." Lahr acknowledged before checking his PADD for the necessary tools to do a system maintenance check.   Nothing more than an adjustable spanner and a diagnostic tool was needed - so he was good to go.   Off he went.

[Zhukdrashar Mrekrerhas]

[Ensign Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A | Bridge]

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

With the course laid in and the ship humming along at warp seven, there was no longer a reason for Ian to be on the bridge, especially with the mound of datawork he had waiting for him, thus he stood and said.

"Nira, you have the bridge, try ta nae scratch the paint. I will be in my ready room."

Ian then entered his office and began to tuck into the various reports and evaluations awaiting his attention.

[Bridge - Tactical Station - USS Challenger]

In her typically formal manner of speaking, T'Kel said.

"It is only logical that you be fully familiar with the ship's main tactical station Ensign. It is only prudent to be prepared for all contingencies regardless of your current rank and experience. More senior officers are naturally more likely to take over at Tactical than you, but with the uncertainty of casualty distribution, the normal chain of command could be interrupted and you could find yourself manning this station. It is therefore incumbent on me to insure you are prepared to take on that responsibility."

Zhukdra'shar nodded over at Lieutenant T'Kel's statement, fully understanding her reasoning as to wanting him to become acquainted with the Tactical Station. The thought of having to operate it if any senior officers were indisposed due to an unexpected happenstance, however, did intimidate him significantly. Especially with how inexperienced he still felt. Still, he dared not voice his concerns out loud or keep them in his mind lingering for too long. Lest T'Kel would notice and question him about it. Maybe he was worrying too much about the fact, though, even though he knew that Vulcans had some degree of telepathy. He didn't know to what extent, however, which made him remain a little wary.

"I see. And I cannot help but utterly agree with the logic behind such an assignment to be reviewed by one such as myself." He mrowled back as a response, offering a small smile of appreciation towards the Vulcan. Even with all his reserves about such an assignment, he still couldn't help but feel as if he was a valuable member of the crew. He just hoped that he could remain as such in the view of his superiors and fellow officers. "I must admit, it certainly feels much more different to be learning through such a first-hand approach to the console than what I was taught within the Academy. The importance of my duty upon such an ordeal is now much more clearer to me."

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

"Aye, sir," said Nira. And so she took the Big Chair as Captain Galloway stepped into his ready room. She felt, in a way, awed to be in this chair. She didn't recall a time she ever manned the chair on Discovery. And it was certainly her first time on the chair.

She thought of pulling up holo screens when she remembered that the Challenger didn't have any. She shrugged and thought of what to do. It was only a few days to Kaimo. Well...may as well start with the basics. She did remember that departmental heads reported to the First Officer...she should know, she used to be one.

"Said to all departmental heads," called Nira. "Status report. Everything within normal parameters?"

She figured to start with the basics, provide a status. She looked especially at some of the lower officers, like Misters McNair and Zhuk, to see how well they can assist their departmental heads in their status reports.

While she waited, she decided to check the duty roster for the ship. A named jumped out at her. Hyperion. Who or what was Hyperion, she wondered.

As he waited for T'Kel's response, his ear pivoted towards Lieutenant Nira, as he heard her voice asking for a status report to all department heads. Though momentarily hesitant to answer himself, considering the question was not particularly directed at him, he realized as he caught her gaze through the corner of his vision that he was expected to provide such information. At least, for the time being. He gazed forward, ready to provide her with the information.

"According to the readings within the console," He made a pause, as to verify his next statement, making sure that nothing had changed in the brief second that he had turned away, feline eyes taking in the information displayed quickly. "Shields and weapons, both phasers and torpedoes, remain within expected and safe parameters. Ready to be activated at a moment's notice" He reassured Nira, as he then added, "Long-range sensors remain active and fully functional, they have not yet picked up any anomalous reading, as far as I am able to tell, madam."

Something about Nira's voice seemed familiar to Zhukdra'shar. He could swear that he had heard it before, yet he was unsure where. His eyes returned to the console, as he pondered on that 'deja-vÁº' sensation that it gave him. She had recently been transferred here, sure, yet what could be the connection? Brief blurs of lava and the word 'Sandancer' came into his mind, yet he couldn't make much of it. It didn't matter now, he supposed.

He felt proud of his small achievement at the bridge, though, confident that his statement had been accurate, and, hoping that he had made Lieutenant T'Kel feel proud too. Vulcans could feel pride, correct? Or that emotion had also been suppressed alongside all others?

[Ian Galloway]

[Bridge - USS Challenger - Kaimo System]

"Captain's Log supplemental. We have just made orbit over Kaimo IV. Sensor scans of the system show that the star Kaimo is an unstable white sub-giant roughly half as bright as Sol, and is prone ta extremely powerful flares and periods of radically increased solar emissions. Furthermore, this instability has caused great fluctuations in the star's size as its internal reactions changed. The outer system is fairly typical with an extensive Oort Belt and outer cometary rings. The inner system is crowded with debris and high solar winds, creatin' hundreds of thousands of sensor ghosts and less-than-reliable sensor readings beyond planetary range.

"From orbit, Kaimo IV appears ta be a placid, quiet, classic Class M world - glowin' blue and green in the sunlight. Sensors show no other traffic in orbit, but the higher-than-normal solar winds are playin' havoc with the planet's upper atmosphere. This will make shuttle operations extremely hazardous and normal transporter operations will be difficult at best, especially durin' daylight hours.

"Scans of the planet shows evidence of pronounced geological and tectonic upheaval within the last several thousand years. In addition, background radiation levels are also slightly higher than normal, but not high enough ta be dangerous over the short term with adequate medical care.

"Plant and animal life on the planet are both verdant and plentiful. However, in an unexpected turn of events sensors indicate a large number of small villages dotting the area including one within ten kilometers of the primary subspace signal. Sensors estimate there are roughly a million stone or bronze-age inhabitants on Kaimo IV. The presence of sentient life will greatly complicate our mission.

"As for the subspace signals that brought us here, sensors have detected four discrete point sources arrayed in a pyramid shape around the planet. The three secondary sources are feedin' data to the primary, which is located at roughly 38° North and 118° west The area nearest the primary signal-source is a slightly depressed bowl some 1,000 kilometers in diameter. Given the unexpected presence of non-warp culture, the relic subspace sites, in addition to the suspected presence of Romulans on Kaimo IV, our rather routine mission has gained much higher priority that initially expected. End Log."

After closing his log. Ian smiled wistfully and thought. "One step short of disaster, they're quick, I'm much faster." As he envied Nira's ability to be the one that had to enter the lion's den of so many unexpected factors, but still had to succeed. The very essence of leading an away team before he spoke to his first officer.

"Okay Nira, this is it. Your first away team command. Because of the sentients, you're goin' ta have ta keep your numbers down, but with so many unknowns in play, I suggest you go in well armed. You will nae have an assault team, but armed a wee bit heavier than usual. Good luck."

[Nira Said]

[Bridge - USS Challenger - Kaimo System]

"Captain's Log supplemental. We have just made orbit over Kaimo IV. Sensor scans of the system show that the star Kaimo is an unstable white sub-giant roughly half as bright as Sol, and is prone ta extremely powerful flares and periods of radically increased solar emissions. Furthermore, this instability has caused great fluctuations in the star's size as its internal reactions changed. The outer system is fairly typical with an extensive Oort Belt and outer cometary rings. The inner system is crowded with debris and high solar winds, creatin' hundreds of thousands of sensor ghosts and less-than-reliable sensor readings beyond planetary range.

"From orbit, Kaimo IV appears ta be a placid, quiet, classic Class M world - glowin' blue and green in the sunlight. Sensors show no other traffic in orbit, but the higher-than-normal solar winds are playin' havoc with the planet's upper atmosphere. This will make shuttle operations extremely hazardous and normal transporter operations will be difficult at best, especially durin' daylight hours.

"Scans of the planet shows evidence of pronounced geological and tectonic upheaval within the last several thousand years. In addition, background radiation levels are also slightly higher than normal, but not high enough ta be dangerous over the short term with adequate medical care.

"Plant and animal life on the planet are both verdant and plentiful. However, in an unexpected turn of events sensors indicate a large number of small villages dotting the area including one within ten kilometers of the primary subspace signal. Sensors estimate there are roughly a million stone or bronze-age inhabitants on Kaimo IV. The presence of sentient life will greatly complicate our mission.

"As for the subspace signals that brought us here, sensors have detected four discrete point sources arrayed in a pyramid shape around the planet. The three secondary sources are feedin' data to the primary, which is located at roughly 38° North and 118° west The area nearest the primary signal-source is a slightly depressed bowl some 1,000 kilometers in diameter. Given the unexpected presence of non-warp culture, the relic subspace sites, in addition to the suspected presence of Romulans on Kaimo IV, our rather routine mission has gained much higher priority that initially expected. End Log."

After closing his log. Ian smiled wistfully and thought. "One step short of disaster, they're quick, I'm much faster." As he envied Nira's ability to be the one that had to enter the lion's den of so many unexpected factors, but still had to succeed. The very essence of leading an away team before he spoke to his first officer.

"Okay Nira, this is it. Your first away team command. Because of the sentients, you're goin' ta have ta keep your numbers down, but with so many unknowns in play, I suggest you go in well armed. You will nae have an assault team, but armed a wee bit heavier than usual. Good luck."

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

The next few days had Nira getting to know more about Challenger. She managed to meet Hyperion and was amazed by what she saw. She thought it was a good idea for him to be assigned to Astrometrics, but she wondered what else he could do. She was equally surprised by the Cetacean Labs and the talking dolphins that lived there.

She also spent time inspecting and getting to know the departments. She spent quite a time in Security, but then, she used to be Security Chief of Discovery. She was all the more impressed by T'Kel, Blackfeather and Zhuk, though she can't help but wonder if the Caitian seemed familiar. Same with Mister McNair from Operations. She managed to also meet Lahr, and she was also surprised by him, in a way. Andorians always came across to Nira as taciturn, but Lahr was somehow...different.

In no time at all, they were at Kaimo. She, like Captain Galloway, was surprised by what was around the source of the signal. She momentarily wondered if this was going to be a case of a highly technological being or piece of technology worshiped as a god. In any case, it was her first away mission as First Officer, and she had to admit, it was a good chance to lead some more; she rarely ever led away missions, she was always alongside the First Officer. Now she was a First Officer herself.

She took a good look at Kaimo with Captain Galloway. Transporters definitely seem to be the better option. True, the solar winds will make transporters difficult, but it was a better option than taking a shuttle.

"Small numbers indeed," Nira replied. "And acknowledged on the heavy arms."

She then began thinking of who to take. She'll need at most two Security personnel for protection. She momentarily considered Mister McNair, but as an Ops officer, he'll be needed on the ship. Same with Ruth, as Chief Science Officer. But she already knew which science officer to take. And in addition, an Engineer to provide assistance. And she'll need a medical officer just in case.

"Commander Said to the following personnel: Mister Zhuk, Mister ch'Verret, Mister Savar, Mister Blackfeather and Doctor Davis. Report to Transporter Room One. Zhuk and Blackfeather, bring along six Type 3A Rifles from the armory."

She figured it would be heavy enough, and she felt that it would be an adequate enough team and it wasn't too big. In any case, she began wondering if these are Romulans willing to play divinity to some primitives.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Deck 12 - Upper Engineering]

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

The next few days had Nira getting to know more about Challenger. She managed to meet Hyperion and was amazed by what she saw. She thought it was a good idea for him to be assigned to Astrometrics, but she wondered what else he could do. She was equally surprised by the Cetacean Labs and the talking dolphins that lived there.

She also spent time inspecting and getting to know the departments. She spent quite a time in Security, but then, she used to be Security Chief of Discovery. She was all the more impressed by T'Kel, Blackfeather and Zhuk, though she can't help but wonder if the Caitian seemed familiar. Same with Mister McNair from Operations. She managed to also meet Lahr, and she was also surprised by him, in a way. Andorians always came across to Nira as taciturn, but Lahr was somehow...different.

In no time at all, they were at Kaimo. She, like Captain Galloway, was surprised by what was around the source of the signal. She momentarily wondered if this was going to be a case of a highly technological being or piece of technology worshiped as a god. In any case, it was her first away mission as First Officer, and she had to admit, it was a good chance to lead some more; she rarely ever led away missions, she was always alongside the First Officer. Now she was a First Officer herself.

She took a good look at Kaimo with Captain Galloway. Transporters definitely seem to be the better option. True, the solar winds will make transporters difficult, but it was a better option than taking a shuttle.

"Small numbers indeed," Nira replied. "And acknowledged on the heavy arms."

She then began thinking of who to take. She'll need at most two Security personnel for protection. She momentarily considered Mister McNair, but as an Ops officer, he'll be needed on the ship. Same with Ruth, as Chief Science Officer. But she already knew which science officer to take. And in addition, an Engineer to provide assistance. And she'll need a medical officer just in case.

"Commander Said to the following personnel: Mister Zhuk, Mister ch'Verret, Mister Savar, Mister Blackfeather and Doctor Davis. Report to Transporter Room One. Zhuk and Blackfeather, bring along six Type 3A Rifles from the armory."

She figured it would be heavy enough, and she felt that it would be an adequate enough team and it wasn't too big. In any case, she began wondering if these are Romulans willing to play divinity to some primitives.

Lahr didn't want to admit that after a day or so he was settling into his new role with engineering.   He still missed being on the bridge at the center of activity with Ruth nearby, but despite Tharn's disagreeable personality Lahr found he actually had a bit of an aptitude for this engineering stuff - well the minor maintenance stuff anyways, it seemed.

While he was working in the bowels of the ship, he'd come across the ships newest XO.   A Betazoid - one of the few he'd met that had gone the counselor route.  Instead this one was a Security Chief.  Lahr promptly introduced himself (though he had no doubt that being the boy-toy of Commander Sigurdsdottir meant his name was likely already known) and offered to help introduce her around to folks since he tended to know most.   He thought he made a good impression.

Unfortunately for him, he was right and as a result his name got called to go on an away team.   Roohz!  Engineers were rarely tagged for away teams - so what the hell?!  Why was his name being called?  Lahr's antennae twitched in agitation.

He supposed he should be grateful that word of his lingering trauma from horrors witnessed during the Leighton War hadn't reached the XO's ears, but that just meant she had no clue of the potential for him to freeze up if it came down to an emergency.   Sure, he hadn't froze up during the more recent fracas on NÁ´r-AralÁ® IV.  His security training had kept him alive and useful even; but Lahr was all too aware of how much his easy-going attitude hid.

The fact that the security team members were bringing along enough phaser rifles for them all hinted that the Commander was expecting trouble.  Lahr shouldn't be the one going.  Hell, he wasn't even a certified Engineer yet - only having week in the department under his belt.  Surely the XO knew this, right?

Lahr was tempted to call back to the Commander and explain the situation but Andorian pride kept him dissent quiet.   After a long moment, Lahr tapped his commbadge and acknowledged the order.  "Yes ma'am"

His antennae twitched anxiously as grabbed an engineers kit and made his way up two decks via the turbolift to Transporter Room One.

[USS Challenger - Deck 10 - Transporter Room One]
"Petty Officer ch'Verret, reporting as ordered." he announced to the senior personnel present in the room.

His antenna flicked up in surprise and then drooped down when he saw the medical officer for the away team.  He'd wondered who Dr. Davis was.

NPC Lieutenant JG Chloe Davies, Head Nurse
[USS Challenger - Deck 10 - Transporter Room One]

Chloe was standing off to the side, reviewing the mission brief on her PADD when Petty Officer ch'Verret arrived and presented himself to the room.  The medical officer knew the Andorian quite well, given they had been an item 2 and a half years ago.  It was she who had first reported Lahr's sleeplessness after the battle at Innominatum Outpost.  It was shortly after that that he dumped her.  Chloe had initially thought he was just upset with her for trying to get him help for his PTSD so kept hoping he would return to her.  But she learned afterwards that he'd been secretly seeing Ruth Sigurdsdottir long distance during that time.  When they admitted their relationship to the Captain, Chloe had hoped Ruth would be kicked out of the service, but no; other couples on other ships had proven that officers and enlisted could maintain a relationship and be professionally impartial, so the pair were given a chance.  From what she'd seen there was nothing about the pair when they were together but her opinion didn't seem to matter.

In the years since their break-up, Lahr avoided Sickbay unless absolutely necessary.  Though when he did show up for his yearly exams or when actually needing medical assistance he was treated professionally - if a bit coolly by her and most of the longer term staff. It wasn't her fault that the medical staff all took her side of things when it came to the break up.  He'd been the one to cheat on her!  He'd hurt her enough that she hadn't trusted any other guy in a relationship since then.

His reaction to her presence - his antenna positioning - told her lots.  He hadn't expected her to be here that much was clear, and she understood why.   When the call came over the intercom for Doctor Davis to report to the Transporter Room, there had been baffled looks all around sickbay.  There was no Doctor Davis.   Doctor Fellows had looked to Chloe and ordered her to grab the standard medical gear, and to report to the Transporter room - interpreting the obvious mistaken name and title to be intended as her.

Chloe tried to not frown at the sight of Lahr.  They were here to do a job, not rehash a bad break-up, but it was hard to be around him.  She was just glad that Ruth - Commander Sigurdsdottir wasn't the one leading this away team - that might have been a tad too much to handle, even for Chloe.  The nurse looked back down to her PADD and tried her best to ignore Lahr's presence while she waited for the others to arrive.

[Zhukdrashar Mrekrerhas]

[Ensign Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A | Deck 4 - Mess Hall]

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

The next few days had Nira getting to know more about Challenger. She managed to meet Hyperion and was amazed by what she saw. She thought it was a good idea for him to be assigned to Astrometrics, but she wondered what else he could do. She was equally surprised by the Cetacean Labs and the talking dolphins that lived there.

She also spent time inspecting and getting to know the departments. She spent quite a time in Security, but then, she used to be Security Chief of Discovery. She was all the more impressed by T'Kel, Blackfeather and Zhuk, though she can't help but wonder if the Caitian seemed familiar. Same with Mister McNair from Operations. She managed to also meet Lahr, and she was also surprised by him, in a way. Andorians always came across to Nira as taciturn, but Lahr was somehow...different.

In no time at all, they were at Kaimo. She, like Captain Galloway, was surprised by what was around the source of the signal. She momentarily wondered if this was going to be a case of a highly technological being or piece of technology worshiped as a god. In any case, it was her first away mission as First Officer, and she had to admit, it was a good chance to lead some more; she rarely ever led away missions, she was always alongside the First Officer. Now she was a First Officer herself.

She took a good look at Kaimo with Captain Galloway. Transporters definitely seem to be the better option. True, the solar winds will make transporters difficult, but it was a better option than taking a shuttle.

"Small numbers indeed," Nira replied. "And acknowledged on the heavy arms."

She then began thinking of who to take. She'll need at most two Security personnel for protection. She momentarily considered Mister McNair, but as an Ops officer, he'll be needed on the ship. Same with Ruth, as Chief Science Officer. But she already knew which science officer to take. And in addition, an Engineer to provide assistance. And she'll need a medical officer just in case.

"Commander Said to the following personnel: Mister Zhuk, Mister ch'Verret, Mister Savar, Mister Blackfeather and Doctor Davis. Report to Transporter Room One. Zhuk and Blackfeather, bring along six Type 3A Rifles from the armory."

She figured it would be heavy enough, and she felt that it would be an adequate enough team and it wasn't too big. In any case, she began wondering if these are Romulans willing to play divinity to some primitives.

Ensign Mrekrerhas was caught slightly off-guard when he received the instruction to retrieve six Type-3A phaser rifles from the Armory and head down to Transporter Room One, alongside Chief Petty Officer Blackfeather. A solid choice for the mission, he believed, as his interactions with Mister Blackfeather had convinced him that he was a capable, dependable individual within Security.

Though his half-slice of pepperoni pizza remained uneaten on his plate, he made sure to press on his commbadge to give a prompt answer. He was under the impression that the potential to be sent off as a part of the away team was not an opportunity to be squandered by dawdling.

"Understood, ma'am. I shalt head there shortly, with the requested ordnance."

A few seconds were allotted for Zhuk to decide whether he would finish his meal or forgo it to instead focus on the mission. His hunger, however, eventually won over his sense of duty, as he quickly consumed the delicious pizza he had learned to love back on Earth, before quickly returning his plate and heading off to the Armory. He had to admit that his excitement made for the short trip from Deck 4 to Deck 9 almost unbearable, but soon enough, he was there.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

[Ensign Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A | Deck 10 - Transporter Room One]

Zhukdra'shar would shortly arrive after Lahr, followed closely by Chief Petty Officer Blackfeather, as each carried three of the requested phaser rifles. He offered a nod of acknowledgment to Lahr and then one towards Head Nurse Davies, as he wondered momentarily if some short conversation would be a good idea while they waited for the rest of the instructions to be provided, and the remaining members of the potential away team to arrive. He hesitated, however, as he felt a certain rift within the room he couldn't really explain.

Maybe it would be a good idea to diffuse what he considered to be a tense situation of some sort by speaking up. And so, after a moment, he offered a small smile as he cleared his throat.

"Greetings. I hope the two are well. I will provide you with your assigned Type-3A Rifles shortly, but first I shalt await the instruction of Lieutenant Commander Said." He made a short pause, as he gauged their reactions for a bit "Have any of you been incorporated within an away team before? This is my first time since becoming a part of the USS Challenger, and I must admit I am both eager, if somewhat nervous about what we may find on the surface."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

Nira looked up at hearing Ruth's voice. As much as it was good to hear her again, it also made her wonder who was this Hyperion in the Astrometrics. She returned back and got her replies from the other departmental heads, indicating everything was within normal parameters.

She had just finished when she heard Ruth's voice again, and she looked up and saw her face to face. Nira couldn't help but smile at her, it had to have been a year, maybe almost three, since they last saw each other face to face. She corresponded with transmissions, but it just wasn't the same. Nira did put on a perplexed expression when Ruth said she was passing on a message from the Captain.

"Good to see you, too, Commander," said Nira. "And thank you so much. Yes, we've got the time, we're still a few days from the Kaimo system..."

She nodded at Ruth to sit in the First Officer's chair, now that she wasn't occupying it at the moment. It would make some sense to Nira; Ruth technically ranked higher than Nira, but because she was in charge of the science department, Nira felt it would technically make Ruth Second Officer.

"I may need to conduct a more thorough inspection of the ship later," said Nira. "I am, after all, new to the job. It's been a few days. Just a way to get to know the ship more. I'll be sure to let...well, Ian," she added, given she would be on duty, but Nira knew Captain Galloway enough that she could use his first name, and Ruth seemed a lot more familiar to him, but then again, they served around each other longer. "I'll be sure to tell him that Mister ch'Verret told you to pass it to him.

"I am curious about a few things, though," she added to Ruth. "Who's this Hyperion? I'm presuming an android crewmember, given the synthoid ban is lifted. And also...dolphin?" she asked, her expression furrowed in befuddlement.

[Bridge - USS Challenger - Previously]

Ruth sat in the First Officer's seat and chuckled.

"Well, depending on who you ask there's a lot of answers to that!"she said "The straight answer is 'he' for want of giving a bundle of metal and wires a gender, it's what he prefers and I'm not going to argue with that, is an AI assigned to Astrometrics.  My headache.  Not him personally but he rather perplexes a fair few of the Science Crew.  Arya, my younger sister, is ok with him when she's in there keeping her hand in with the Science side of her training, but some of the others aren't.  I should mention both my younger twin sisters are aboard.  Katya is in Security, Arya mainly in Medical but since she took dual courses in Academy she likes to poke her nose into Science in her spare time."

She rolled her neck scrunching up her shoulders. "Off topic you any good at Parises Squares, or something else physical, I've been rather stiff lately, need someone different to work out with!  Anyhow... Hyperion is Lahr's - Petty Officer ch'Verret that is, pet project much the same as the dolphins are to our Captain atm.  He's even had the audacity to call one of them Ruth!  I mean the cheek of it!  Maybe it's the best looking one!" she grinned knowing that Nira would know she was only joking.  "Maybe you could get Petty Officer ch'Verret to introduce you to Hyperion... would answer a lot of questions, it's the best way, or pop down to Astrometrics and ask him to meet you there.  And if you want to get to know the ship... she did used to be mine, I know all the nooks and crannies so to speak, I'll give you the Executive Tour!"

"Don't worry about Hyperion, he's efficient and you definitely know he's coming being bright yellow.  So what about you Ms First Officer.  I always knew you were command material, and honestly, don't worry about the rank thing, I'm not going to disrespect you, some things happened, Ex-Admiral Leyton for one, then some enforced medical leave and taking a rank reduction so that I could serve on the Challenger again since Ian needed a CSO and I wanted to be with Lahr.  I assume you've been filled in on that particular relationship?"

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

"Commander Said to the following personnel: Mister Zhuk, Mister ch'Verret, Mister Savar, Mister Blackfeather and Doctor Davis. Report to Transporter Room One. Zhuk and Blackfeather, bring along six Type 3A Rifles from the armory."

She figured it would be heavy enough, and she felt that it would be an adequate enough team and it wasn't too big. In any case, she began wondering if these are Romulans willing to play divinity to some primitives.

[CSO's Office - Challenger]

Ruth was surprised yet not that Nira was going down without a Senior Officer as back up.  While she knew that Nira was capable, she would have preferred that the young woman had someone to back her up.  She was also nervous about Lahr being down on the planet, now she knew how he felt when she was on away missions.

Mentally shrugging she signed off on the last PADD on the pile she was working on and walked to the nearest turbolift and took it to the Bridge.

[Bridge - USS Challenger]

As Ruth walked onto the Bridge she smiled at Ian.  "Boy I wish I could be down there, the Scientist in me is itching.  Still good experience for Savar and I know he'll be through.  Scans are ongoing, I've got them collating as much information as they possibly can down there.  Mind if I take Science 1, Captain?"

She was pretty sure that Ian would see straight through her ruse to be in the Bridge so that if anything happened to the away team she would know right away and not be down in the Science Department worrying to the point that she walked a hole in the deck plates.

[Nira Said]

PO1 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Deck 12 - Upper Engineering]

Lahr didn't want to admit that after a day or so he was settling into his new role with engineering.   He still missed being on the bridge at the center of activity with Ruth nearby, but despite Tharn's disagreeable personality Lahr found he actually had a bit of an aptitude for this engineering stuff - well the minor maintenance stuff anyways, it seemed.

While he was working in the bowels of the ship, he'd come across the ships newest XO.   A Betazoid - one of the few he'd met that had gone the counselor route.  Instead this one was a Security Chief.  Lahr promptly introduced himself (though he had no doubt that being the boy-toy of Commander Sigurdsdottir meant his name was likely already known) and offered to help introduce her around to folks since he tended to know most.   He thought he made a good impression.

Unfortunately for him, he was right and as a result his name got called to go on an away team.   Roohz!  Engineers were rarely tagged for away teams - so what the hell?!  Why was his name being called?  Lahr's antennae twitched in agitation.

He supposed he should be grateful that word of his lingering trauma from horrors witnessed during the Leighton War hadn't reached the XO's ears, but that just meant she had no clue of the potential for him to freeze up if it came down to an emergency.   Sure, he hadn't froze up during the more recent fracas on NÁ´r-AralÁ® IV.  His security training had kept him alive and useful even; but Lahr was all too aware of how much his easy-going attitude hid.

The fact that the security team members were bringing along enough phaser rifles for them all hinted that the Commander was expecting trouble.  Lahr shouldn't be the one going.  Hell, he wasn't even a certified Engineer yet - only having week in the department under his belt.  Surely the XO knew this, right?

Lahr was tempted to call back to the Commander and explain the situation but Andorian pride kept him dissent quiet.   After a long moment, Lahr tapped his commbadge and acknowledged the order.  "Yes ma'am"

His antennae twitched anxiously as grabbed an engineers kit and made his way up two decks via the turbolift to Transporter Room One.

[USS Challenger - Deck 10 - Transporter Room One]
"Petty Officer ch'Verret, reporting as ordered." he announced to the senior personnel present in the room.

His antenna flicked up in surprise and then drooped down when he saw the medical officer for the away team.  He'd wondered who Dr. Davis was.

NPC Lieutenant JG Chloe Davies, Head Nurse
[USS Challenger - Deck 10 - Transporter Room One]

Chloe was standing off to the side, reviewing the mission brief on her PADD when Petty Officer ch'Verret arrived and presented himself to the room.  The medical officer knew the Andorian quite well, given they had been an item 2 and a half years ago.  It was she who had first reported Lahr's sleeplessness after the battle at Innominatum Outpost.  It was shortly after that that he dumped her.  Chloe had initially thought he was just upset with her for trying to get him help for his PTSD so kept hoping he would return to her.  But she learned afterwards that he'd been secretly seeing Ruth Sigurdsdottir long distance during that time.  When they admitted their relationship to the Captain, Chloe had hoped Ruth would be kicked out of the service, but no; other couples on other ships had proven that officers and enlisted could maintain a relationship and be professionally impartial, so the pair were given a chance.  From what she'd seen there was nothing about the pair when they were together but her opinion didn't seem to matter.

In the years since their break-up, Lahr avoided Sickbay unless absolutely necessary.  Though when he did show up for his yearly exams or when actually needing medical assistance he was treated professionally - if a bit coolly by her and most of the longer term staff. It wasn't her fault that the medical staff all took her side of things when it came to the break up.  He'd been the one to cheat on her!  He'd hurt her enough that she hadn't trusted any other guy in a relationship since then.

His reaction to her presence - his antenna positioning - told her lots.  He hadn't expected her to be here that much was clear, and she understood why.   When the call came over the intercom for Doctor Davis to report to the Transporter Room, there had been baffled looks all around sickbay.  There was no Doctor Davis.   Doctor Fellows had looked to Chloe and ordered her to grab the standard medical gear, and to report to the Transporter room - interpreting the obvious mistaken name and title to be intended as her.

Chloe tried to not frown at the sight of Lahr.  They were here to do a job, not rehash a bad break-up, but it was hard to be around him.  She was just glad that Ruth - Commander Sigurdsdottir wasn't the one leading this away team - that might have been a tad too much to handle, even for Chloe.  The nurse looked back down to her PADD and tried her best to ignore Lahr's presence while she waited for the others to arrive.

[Ensign Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A | Deck 4 - Mess Hall]

Ensign Mrekrerhas was caught slightly off-guard when he received the instruction to retrieve six Type-3A phaser rifles from the Armory and head down to Transporter Room One, alongside Chief Petty Officer Blackfeather. A solid choice for the mission, he believed, as his interactions with Mister Blackfeather had convinced him that he was a capable, dependable individual within Security.

Though his half-slice of pepperoni pizza remained uneaten on his plate, he made sure to press on his commbadge to give a prompt answer. He was under the impression that the potential to be sent off as a part of the away team was not an opportunity to be squandered by dawdling.

"Understood, ma'am. I shalt head there shortly, with the requested ordnance."

A few seconds were allotted for Zhuk to decide whether he would finish his meal or forgo it to instead focus on the mission. His hunger, however, eventually won over his sense of duty, as he quickly consumed the delicious pizza he had learned to love back on Earth, before quickly returning his plate and heading off to the Armory. He had to admit that his excitement made for the short trip from Deck 4 to Deck 9 almost unbearable, but soon enough, he was there.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

[Ensign Zhukdra'shar Mrekrerhas | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A | Deck 10 - Transporter Room One]

Zhukdra'shar would shortly arrive after Lahr, followed closely by Chief Petty Officer Blackfeather, as each carried three of the requested phaser rifles. He offered a nod of acknowledgment to Lahr and then one towards Head Nurse Davies, as he wondered momentarily if some short conversation would be a good idea while they waited for the rest of the instructions to be provided, and the remaining members of the potential away team to arrive. He hesitated, however, as he felt a certain rift within the room he couldn't really explain.

Maybe it would be a good idea to diffuse what he considered to be a tense situation of some sort by speaking up. And so, after a moment, he offered a small smile as he cleared his throat.

"Greetings. I hope the two are well. I will provide you with your assigned Type-3A Rifles shortly, but first I shalt await the instruction of Lieutenant Commander Said." He made a short pause, as he gauged their reactions for a bit "Have any of you been incorporated within an away team before? This is my first time since becoming a part of the USS Challenger, and I must admit I am both eager, if somewhat nervous about what we may find on the surface."

[Lieutenant Commander Nira Said | Transporter Room One | Deck Ten | USS Challenger NCC-40117-A]

Nira arrived first and awaited everybody else. Savar had come with his usual scientific equipment. Lahr, of course, arrived with a grumpy expression, which surprised Nira, given his friendly attitude from before. But then, when Davis had arrived...Nira was taken aback by the emotions she felt. Those and the expressions indicated...those two were a couple who had broken up.

Nira decided to start briefing. "Okay, people, now that we're all here," she said, "I will begin. There's a suspected Romulan listening post at the planet below, and I mean suspected. Could be a hostile faction, not at all in harmony with the Free State. But there's a further complication: Sensors detected several villages within ten kilometers of the signal, stone or bronze age inhabitants. There's a potential chance that the Romulans could be playing god here, or that the post could be worshiped as an inert idol. Either way, stealth is essential here, but there's a chance these villagers would be in with the Romulans, but the potential for hostilities is why we're going in heavy.

"Mister ch'Verret," she said to Lahr, "your expertise is going to be essential when we get to the listening post and shut it off. You'll be helping Mister Savar with that," she added, nodding at Savar. "And I trust there won't be a problem, especially with Doctor Davis?"

She looked at the two in an aside manner, hoping whatever issues and differences they have will be set aside for the mission. Although when informed that Davis wasn't a doctor, Nira blinked in befuddlement, and then she checked the crew roster.

"My apologies, Head Nurse," she said. "The damn roster never gives titles other than those of Starfleet rank.

"Now, Mister Zhuk and Mister Blackfeather will be our protection," continued Nira, "and Davis will be on hand medically in the event of injury. Again, hostilities are to be expected below, especially from the Romulans. Now arm yourselves and position on the pads."

Once the team gathered their armaments, she turned to the transporter officer on duty, a Vulcan named Grelek. "Alright, Mister Grelek, find a place as close as possible to the source of that signal. Energize the moment there's a break in the solar winds in that area."

And thus, rifle on hand (and Allah-awfully heavier than her favored compression rifle, but it'll have to do), she took her position, ready to beam down.