S3:E3 (MINISODE) Revelations - Part 2: Into the Rabbit Hole

[Richard James Litt]

[USS Challenger - Litt's Quarter]

Litt was passing a lot of time in the gym since they had all the events involving REDAV and BISMARK. He was knewing some other crewmen and talking a lot with chief Dradis about flying, vacation, and a lot of other stuffs.

About 3 days after they dock, Richard was sleeping when the Captain send a message to some people in order to invite them to a conference.

Captain Sigurdsdottir to all senior staff and critical team members - if you don't know you're a critical team member don't worry if you're needed then you'll have got this message! - there will be a meeting in Conference Room 1 - Deck 14, it's the huge one and we're taking it over for the next few weeks in One Hours Time.  Don't worry about uniforms so long as you are respectfully dressed.  I know I'm eating into your leave time for this.  Please be prompt, during this mission we will assume that you do the research in whatever manner you wish. I'll explain once there.  Sigurdsdottir out.

As he didn't listened at first was chief Dradis that appears in his door waking him up. He told to Litt about the conference and said that it was really important.

"I sir, I'll just suit up and reach you in a few moments." He said, and as soon as Chief Dradis left the room he started to dress up properly.

[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room 1]

A few minutes latter he took his way to the Conference Room indicated and looked that a lot of people was already there, including Chief Dradis.

"Sorry Ma'am, rough night... Ensign Litt reporting for duty." He said to the Captain putting his hands in his back and waited to entered the room to took a place.

[Sukal]

Outpost Conference Room

Sukal noted the meeting progressing nicely complete with an agenda which the Captain had drawn up.  Despite people being on leave; there was quite a bit to do from what she had outlined.  Much of it was already something Sukal had been thinking about in one form or another.  He noted Lek was quite pleased with the supplies that had arrived, and nodded to the Ferengi Chief Engineer.  With so much to take care of in only six weeks; the First Officer understood the greatest necessity was coordination and making sure the crew rotations were taken care of.  Fortunately, he had already worked on the crew rotations after having looking over and updating the roster, but it was not yet completed.

"The rotations are nearly completed, Captain.  I should have it up in an hour or so. Thus far, I have the roster with you taking first shift and me taking the second shift for the first two days.  After that, you will be off for two while I take first shift, and Lena can help by taking second shift as she learns what it means to be a Second Officer - temporarily.  Then, we shall rotate me off with your return two days after that, and have Tempest take second shift until my return.  Beyond that, I haven't finished the roster rotations. As for what we should work on first - I intend to get my physical out of the way before doing anything.  Other than that, I believe repairs are top priority along with the medical checkups needed to get the crew back in shape.  After I get done with my physical - I will have the rotations up, and we can get back in shape in that area as well.  Projects to get ourselves ready for the next engagement with Leyton and his rogues should be started according to the new roster and as time allows.  We don't want our people to be doing work while also trying to take leave...kind of defeats the purpose.  I will be going over procedures as far as security with Lena, and I will be working on keeping tabs on all assignments we currently have drawn up from your outline.  Once the ship is up to Chief Lek's satisfaction; I suggest we turn more attention to getting upgrades done to the outpost, and finishing anything she is still in need of.  I will be personally taking a hand in the questioning of the Cadets from the REDAV to further ascertain where they were and what they were doing during our time when Leyton was here with us.  I do not like the idea that Admiral d'Arth simply went rogue, and near him just prior to that had been one of the Cadets:  Rosario.  It just feels wrong to me.  I will be keeping myself free for any departments which need my aid in taking care of things," Sukal answered as he outlined his own plans.

Here he paused with a glance at those present from Security, and then back to his Captain before taking a bit of a sigh.  "As for the four questionable Cadets from the REDAV - I highly recommend taking them completely off the duty roster until their innocence or guilt can be proven in the incidents over the past month.  We have at least three incidents which are dangerous to leave unchecked, and even worse to let them continue to be on duty where they can possibly hurt us further.  Starfleet regulations specifically state that those under investigation pertaining to charges which could impact the safety of a ship or crew must be withdrawn from duty if at all possible.  I know we are a bit short handed, Captain, but I do not see it necessary to risk the crew further until they are cleared once and for all.  They should be separated and confined under guard until the investigation is complete," he added as his gaze locked with his friend's.

Sukal hated challenging his Captain on anything, but that was his job...well, part of it.  It was his duty to help her anyway he could, and sometimes that meant showing her where there was a danger or an error.  He could only hope she understood his reasons.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[USS Challenger - Litt's Quarter]

Litt was passing a lot of time in the gym since they had all the events involving REDAV and BISMARK. He was knewing some other crewmen and talking a lot with chief Dradis about flying, vacation, and a lot of other stuffs.

About 3 days after they dock, Richard was sleeping when the Captain send a message to some people in order to invite them to a conference.

As he didn't listened at first was chief Dradis that appears in his door waking him up. He told to Litt about the conference and said that it was really important.

"I sir, I'll just suit up and reach you in a few moments." He said, and as soon as Chief Dradis left the room he started to dress up properly.

[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room 1]

A few minutes later he took his way to the Conference Room indicated and looked that a lot of people was already there, including Chief Dradis.

"Sorry Ma'am, rough night... Ensign Litt reporting for duty." He said to the Captain putting his hands in his back and waited to entered the room to took a place.

[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room 1]

"At ease Ensign, Chief Dradis." said Ruth with a chuckle.  "You weren't expecting to be on duty today it's fine and my apologies for having dragged you out of bed." The Captain guessed that he'd still been in bed having been there herself many times as a Cadet and an Ensign.

"Get up to speed, Dradis, work out between yourself and Ensign Litt what you think needs doing in Flight, Everything and I mean everything needs overhauled as I want everything in peak condition before we go out again.  Liaise with Lt. Lek too." Ruth paused and smiled.  "Operations and Engineering, the glue that holds the rest of us together half the time, Medical puts us back together physically, Security keep us safe and Science are the whizz kids that think up funky ideas to give us an edge... well that's one way of describing us!"

Outpost Conference Room

Sukal noted the meeting progressing nicely complete with an agenda which the Captain had drawn up.  Despite people being on leave; there was quite a bit to do from what she had outlined.  Much of it was already something Sukal had been thinking about in one form or another.  He noted Lek was quite pleased with the supplies that had arrived, and nodded to the Ferengi Chief Engineer.  With so much to take care of in only six weeks; the First Officer understood the greatest necessity was coordination and making sure the crew rotations were taken care of.  Fortunately, he had already worked on the crew rotations after having looking over and updating the roster, but it was not yet completed.

"The rotations are nearly completed, Captain.  I should have it up in an hour or so. Thus far, I have the roster with you taking first shift and me taking the second shift for the first two days.  After that, you will be off for two while I take first shift, and Lena can help by taking second shift as she learns what it means to be a Second Officer - temporarily.  Then, we shall rotate me off with your return two days after that, and have Tempest take second shift until my return.  Beyond that, I haven't finished the roster rotations. As for what we should work on first - I intend to get my physical out of the way before doing anything.  Other than that, I believe repairs are top priority along with the medical checkups needed to get the crew back in shape.  After I get done with my physical - I will have the rotations up, and we can get back in shape in that area as well.  Projects to get ourselves ready for the next engagement with Leyton and his rogues should be started according to the new roster and as time allows.  We don't want our people to be doing work while also trying to take leave...kind of defeats the purpose.  I will be going over procedures as far as security with Lena, and I will be working on keeping tabs on all assignments we currently have drawn up from your outline.  Once the ship is up to Chief Lek's satisfaction; I suggest we turn more attention to getting upgrades done to the outpost, and finishing anything she is still in need of.  I will be personally taking a hand in the questioning of the Cadets from the REDAV to further ascertain where they were and what they were doing during our time when Leyton was here with us.  I do not like the idea that Admiral d'Arth simply went rogue, and near him just prior to that had been one of the Cadets:  Rosario.  It just feels wrong to me.  I will be keeping myself free for any departments which need my aid in taking care of things," Sukal answered as he outlined his own plans.

Here he paused with a glance at those present from Security, and then back to his Captain before taking a bit of a sigh.  "As for the four questionable Cadets from the REDAV - I highly recommend taking them completely off the duty roster until their innocence or guilt can be proven in the incidents over the past month.  We have at least three incidents which are dangerous to leave unchecked, and even worse to let them continue to be on duty where they can possibly hurt us further.  Starfleet regulations specifically state that those under investigation pertaining to charges which could impact the safety of a ship or crew must be withdrawn from duty if at all possible.  I know we are a bit short handed, Captain, but I do not see it necessary to risk the crew further until they are cleared once and for all.  They should be separated and confined under guard until the investigation is complete," he added as his gaze locked with his friend's.

Sukal hated challenging his Captain on anything, but that was his job...well, part of it.  It was his duty to help her anyway he could, and sometimes that meant showing her where there was a danger or an error.  He could only hope she understood his reasons.

Ruth saw the troubled look in Sukal's eyes.  He never liked seemingly countermanding her but his ideas were sound and he wasn't the only one with doubts.  She quickly put his mind to rest.

Laying a comforting hand on his shoulder she shook her head while smiling. "Sukal it's ok, I'm in agreement there, and that is one of the things that should be addressed. Liaise with Lt. Taray and Lena for that.  Although..." she cast dancing eyes both at Sukal and then over at Lek "I'm sure they'd be perfectly safe scrubbing the outside of Innominatum with toothbrushes... see not doing anything that might be deemed nefarious but being useful at the same time!" she let out a short snort of mirth.

"I'm joking but while this is serious and I know it is, I just had to sneak that in sorry.  Have it look like I'm giving them more time off, but get them to their physicals and question them.  The rotations look fine and I'm ok with Tempest taking a turn there too. I also promise, and all of you can bear witness that I'm promising Mr. Sukal, that I will at least try to take the down time as I'm rota'd but obviously I will have to take messages and act upon stuff as necessary.  We'll also have a weekly 30 minute catch up meeting I think just to bring everyone up to speed.  Agreed?  If Mr. Sukal is finished with me here and wants to get on with having his physical I'll come with you to Science Mr. Tempest, you can decide which we go to first, but I'd like to see the outpost Science at some point."

[AS CPO Hoshi Dradis - Chief of Flight]

"Ensign with me.  Mr. Lek do you have a preference in which we work on the shuttles and workabees since you might need those for anything external?" Dradis asked Lek.

[James Walding]

[Outside the Holodeck] After the meeting

James stepped out of the Holodeck, and he looked a state. He was dripping in sweat and looked like he had been through hell, and he had. For the past few hours he had been running a battle drill, to test some ideas he had about deceiving enemy vessels. While his idea ran into more than a few pitfalls during the simulation, James felt he had an idea he could bring to his commanding officers.

He wiped the sweat off as best as he could and, using a reflective surface as a makeshift mirror, brushed his hair back and tried to make himself more presentable, straightening his uniform and fiddling with his ensign pin more than once. He was anxious, the Captain while lovely still intimated him, and her number one gave off an aura of intellect and experience and..... "I'll go for a drink later" he though. "Meet some crew-members and try and relax." He closed his eyes and breathed in heavily.

"Ensign Walding to lieutenant Taray, can I meet you to talk about some ideas and data I have regarding tactics against layton"

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room]

[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room]

[Dr. York, Lt. Taray, CPO Maghouin, Ruth]

Maggie gave Lahr a wink.  "I dated an Andorian for a while Mr. ch'Verret.  I find them to be fascinating people, but I still have gaps in my knowledge... wanna help a girl out when you have some time?!" she said smiling over at the Ops officer kindly.  "Captain wants everyone to have a full check over, iron out any kinks... or in your case 'wonky antennae'!, and generally get us back to full fitness as a crew.  Most efficient way to do that is physicals.  Soooo... since it looks like you're gonna be busy for a while... swing by Sickbay when you're done and I'll sort you out, sooner you're done, sooner all you need is the RnR Rx!" she said spelling out the letters.

"I'll trust... well probably Ops in the form of Mr. Sukal since you're gonna be busy with other things, to work up an appropriate rota. To get your leave sorted.  With your permission Ma'am..." she said turning to the Captain "I'll go set up in Medical, can you make it a stipulation that medicals can happen even on leave days although they can stipulate a time.  Otherwise we might not get through everyone."

Lahr's good antenna bobbed in amusement at Dr. York's overly friendly manner.  Was she hitting on him during a briefing meeting?!

"I'll be sure to visit you in Sickbay when I have a moment, Doctor."

The Andorian then listened as the Captain suggested 'keycodes'... he felt obligated to comment - when there was a break in the conversation (which actually seemed to go on forever so that his words seemed way out of place)

"Um, Captain?  Rather than using keycodes... the security system aboard the Challenger does have the option of using biometrics for locking out individuals not on a 'invite list'.

"It would only take a few scans of the new staff to add them to the system, if that is preferable?   We had some issues a while back and biometrics seemed the best security option at the time.  Codes can be read from an individuals mind, and as you noted comm-badges can be stolen but biometrics are more difficult to 'hack'"

[Sukal]

Lahr's good antenna bobbed in amusement at Dr. York's overly friendly manner.  Was she hitting on him during a briefing meeting?!

"I'll be sure to visit you in Sickbay when I have a moment, Doctor."

The Andorian then listened as the Captain suggested 'keycodes'... he felt obligated to comment - when there was a break in the conversation (which actually seemed to go on forever so that his words seemed way out of place)

"Um, Captain?  Rather than using keycodes... the security system aboard the Challenger does have the option of using biometrics for locking out individuals not on a 'invite list'.

"It would only take a few scans of the new staff to add them to the system, if that is preferable?   We had some issues a while back and biometrics seemed the best security option at the time.  Codes can be read from an individuals mind, and as you noted comm-badges can be stolen but biometrics are more difficult to 'hack'"

"Mr. ch'Verret has a rather valid point, Captain.  Considering the level of treachery we have been dealing with; the biometrics idea would be much more secure than keycodes.  I do not like the way Leyton has been able to stay ahead of us on more than one occasion since even before my return.  Until we know more about how he is getting information; biometrics would be harder to hack than keycodes or stealing badges," Sukal added to Lahr's thoughts with a nod of thanks to the Andorian.  He liked this man who worked for him in Ops, and hoped he would rise through the ranks even as he had years ago.

"As to the security measures concerning the four Cadets - I am grateful you understand my concerns.  I have nothing else to add to this, and suggest we adjourn to take care of our prospective tasks between our breaks," the First Officer added.  "Department Heads, I will be coming around to each of you to see what you come up with, what you need, and how I can help coordinate your projects if they move into other departments.  Feel free to call on me at any time," he added with a look at each of the seniors present.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Outside the Holodeck] After the meeting

James stepped out of the Holodeck, and he looked a state. He was dripping in sweat and looked like he had been through hell, and he had. For the past few hours he had been running a battle drill, to test some ideas he had about deceiving enemy vessels. While his idea ran into more than a few pitfalls during the simulation, James felt he had an idea he could bring to his commanding officers.

He wiped the sweat off as best as he could and, using a reflective surface as a makeshift mirror, brushed his hair back and tried to make himself more presentable, straightening his uniform and fiddling with his ensign pin more than once. He was anxious, the Captain while lovely still intimated him, and her number one gave off an aura of intellect and experience and..... "I'll go for a drink later" he though. "Meet some crew-members and try and relax." He closed his eyes and breathed in heavily.

"Ensign Walding to lieutenant Taray, can I meet you to talk about some ideas and data I have regarding tactics against layton"

[Conference Room - Innominatum]

[AS Lt. Taray]

When Walding's message came through the Chiefs of Security for Challenger and Innominatum had been having a good long discussion with PO Wilson in the conference room over coffee, since there was a lot of space to spread out in.

"Yes, I think that's advisable... if we take what Lt. Commander Sukal said, add to that half of your staff and half of mine, that gives us enough people off duty to get their rest, plus enough on to do everything we need to do... do you have any specialising in customs?" Taray asked then excused herself to take the ping.

We're still in the Conference Room Walding, just make your way up here and I know this isn't regular duties but could you pick up something for us at 'Just a Bite' on the Promenade on your way up... Just say 'Lt. Taray's usual order' and they'll sort you out.  It's my treat for special occasions, if.. the Captai...

Ruth heard and nodded across.  Both Taray and the ex Ops chief Oftex had a habit of bringing snacks to longer meetings and she had no problem with it.

Yes it's approved so see you up here soon. Taray out.

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room]

Lahr's good antenna bobbed in amusement at Dr. York's overly friendly manner.  Was she hitting on him during a briefing meeting?!

"I'll be sure to visit you in Sickbay when I have a moment, Doctor."

The Andorian then listened as the Captain suggested 'keycodes'... he felt obligated to comment - when there was a break in the conversation (which actually seemed to go on forever so that his words seemed way out of place)

"Um, Captain?  Rather than using keycodes... the security system aboard the Challenger does have the option of using biometrics for locking out individuals not on a 'invite list'.

"It would only take a few scans of the new staff to add them to the system, if that is preferable?   We had some issues a while back and biometrics seemed the best security option at the time.  Codes can be read from an individuals mind, and as you noted comm-badges can be stolen but biometrics are more difficult to 'hack'"

"Mr. ch'Verret has a rather valid point, Captain.  Considering the level of treachery we have been dealing with; the biometrics idea would be much more secure than keycodes.  I do not like the way Leyton has been able to stay ahead of us on more than one occasion since even before my return.  Until we know more about how he is getting information; biometrics would be harder to hack than keycodes or stealing badges," Sukal added to Lahr's thoughts with a nod of thanks to the Andorian.  He liked this man who worked for him in Ops, and hoped he would rise through the ranks even as he had years ago.

"As to the security measures concerning the four Cadets - I am grateful you understand my concerns.  I have nothing else to add to this, and suggest we adjourn to take care of our prospective tasks between our breaks," the First Officer added.  "Department Heads, I will be coming around to each of you to see what you come up with, what you need, and how I can help coordinate your projects if they move into other departments.  Feel free to call on me at any time," he added with a look at each of the seniors present.

[As Ruth]

Glad that some snacks were being sorted as she was feeling rather peckish and there was much still to be done, Ruth nodded sagely at Lahr and Sukal.

"Yess-sss... I'm in agreement there biometrics definitely the way to go I think.  Do it.  Round up the usual suspects and we'll get the scans done and implement that as soon as we can.  I think biometrics to lock information on datapads too.  What do you in Ops recommend for secure upload of data to some kind of central databank ... for want of somewhere better - in here - so that all information is available to all members of this task force and we can pull info and analyse as much as we need, but only those that are on the force.  They may... take Lt. Tempest for example... he could set a new just arrived on the station yesterday crewman the task of 'find all instances of naturally growing Strobolin in these sectors'... he doesn't need to give a reason, he's not breaching security, but that info needs uploaded to here... now like I said those not on the force - info given to department heads only with they only allowed to upload, but how secure would that be?  How secure could we make it?" the Captain asked.

"And where would you like to conduct the interviews of the cadets, I was thinking the interrogation rooms down in the Brig with either Lt. Taray or CPO Maghouin present and one or other of us, and record them naturally visually and audibly.  I want to make sure that we catch anything.  Rather like when Rosario was questioned that time, visually she displayed everything you'd expect but you said you weren't reading her like that." Ruth queried. "Other than that yes, feel free to work where you feel best, Mr. Lek what will you be dealing with first? Just so I know what to cross off my list from all departments!"

[Lek]

[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room]

"Well it means 3 in Command, 3 in Security, 2 in Ops unless there's someone in Operations that Sukal wants to bring onto our team, Maggie is sorting out the Medical team as that will be all hands on deck, Lek I need you to appoint 2 Engineers to the team, Science we have Mr. Tempest, Ensign Farrah, Myself and Mr. Sukal... I know there is some overlap but that's the way it goes.  Mr. Litt and Chief Dradis for flight... I need them to overhaul the navigation systems of all craft.  Challenger should be ok since we've just done it... mentioning which where are they?"

Ruth turned to Sukal "What should we work on first?"

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

Lek was skeptical about this 'think tank' idea, but wasn't so opposed to it that he felt challenging the concept was warranted. No, he'd assign the two requested engineers, and good ones, because, who knew, they might actually stumble onto a practical tactic.

"Aye Ma'am, I suggest Lieutenant Gianetti because he really knows his stuff, and CPO Sharkey because he's an ornery sort that revels in making life difficult. I'm sure he will be useful."

Lek then allowed the others to speak as he was beyond fed up with Leyton and didn't want to think about him any more. He did put some thought into the smuggling, as a Ferengi, he had a natural mindset for such things.

"Whatever this 'Traveller' person is doing, if he is supporting Leyton, then it's because there is more latinum in doing so, than whatever he normally smuggles. Trick to shutting down this operation is to find something that is more lucrative that what Leyton offers. After all, the 62nd Rule of Acquisition says 'The riskier the road, the greater the profit.'"

"And where would you like to conduct the interviews of the cadets, I was thinking the interrogation rooms down in the Brig with either Lt. Taray or CPO Maghouin present and one or other of us, and record them naturally visually and audibly.  I want to make sure that we catch anything.  Rather like when Rosario was questioned that time, visually she displayed everything you'd expect but you said you weren't reading her like that." Ruth queried. "Other than that yes, feel free to work where you feel best, Mr. Lek what will you be dealing with first? Just so I know what to cross off my list from all departments!"

[Conference Room]

Lek paused for a moment, going over the 'to do' list in his head before replying.

"I would say the first priority is replicating the primary sensor array for the station and getting it installed. The secondary array only has 40% of the range of the primary and as getting the station fully operational was the priority prior to the Leyton snipe hunt, I assume that restoring the station's operations is again the priority.

"If you refer to the Challenger's first priority, it remains upgrading the plasma conduit system to handle the input from both warp cores at the same time. As we seem to be relying on dual core operations more and more frequently, the conduits have to be upgraded to withstand so much power to stop the EPS relays from overloading and shorting out equipment all over the ship. It's not a difficult task, but it is tedious as you are talking kilometers of conduits in some of the most inaccessible parts of the ship."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

Lek was skeptical about this 'think tank' idea, but wasn't so opposed to it that he felt challenging the concept was warranted. No, he'd assign the two requested engineers, and good ones, because, who knew, they might actually stumble onto a practical tactic.

"Aye Ma'am, I suggest Lieutenant Gianetti because he really knows his stuff, and CPO Sharkey because he's an ornery sort that revels in making life difficult. I'm sure he will be useful."

Lek then allowed the others to speak as he was beyond fed up with Leyton and didn't want to think about him any more. He did put some thought into the smuggling, as a Ferengi, he had a natural mindset for such things.

"Whatever this 'Traveller' person is doing, if he is supporting Leyton, then it's because there is more latinum in doing so, than whatever he normally smuggles. Trick to shutting down this operation is to find something that is more lucrative that what Leyton offers. After all, the 62nd Rule of Acquisition says 'The riskier the road, the greater the profit.'"

[As CPO Maghouin]
[Conference Room]

"Mr. Lek, The Traveller isn't doing it for profit, least not in terms of latinum.  And he doesn't like Leyton... Leyton is putting a kink in his business, it's not safe out there for him to do his transport any more. We have... a deal shall we say that's worth far more to him than GPL!" Lena said with a smile.

"The smugglers are, least so far as we have so far ascertained are two girls on Innominatum that I know as Veronique and Pema.  I have no reason to believe that these aren't their real names.  A step up from them is or was a woman called Lilith who from their description is Cardassian or least a hybrid with mostly Cardassian features, and then above her a Romulan/Klingon woman they refer to as Hecate. 'The Traveller' is a businessman, he has a ship, 'Dreams of Avarice', transports cargos but otherwise if he's smuggling anything I don't know about it."

Lena grinned "I suspect if there is going to be another drop of drugs, that we'll be right on top of them, because we now have tracers on the girls in and out going communications."

[Conference Room]

Lek paused for a moment, going over the 'to do' list in his head before replying.

"I would say the first priority is replicating the primary sensor array for the station and getting it installed. The secondary array only has 40% of the range of the primary and as getting the station fully operational was the priority prior to the Leyton snipe hunt, I assume that restoring the station's operations is again the priority.

"If you refer to the Challenger's first priority, it remains upgrading the plasma conduit system to handle the input from both warp cores at the same time. As we seem to be relying on dual core operations more and more frequently, the conduits have to be upgraded to withstand so much power to stop the EPS relays from overloading and shorting out equipment all over the ship. It's not a difficult task, but it is tedious as you are talking kilometers of conduits in some of the most inaccessible parts of the ship."

[As Ruth]

The Captain blew out her lips.  "OK with the full contingent of Engineers from both Challenger and Innominatum, plus the new recruits that have arrived over the last week, and taking into account that you are in no state still to be going crawling through, little accessed parts of the ship..and the physicals that need to take place, how long do you anticipate that taking?" she asked.

"Also, Lt. Gianetti yes I fully endorse that one, when you were injured he more than stepped up to the mark, I'm not yet acquainted with CPO Sharkey but from your description I can see him being an asset!" she winked at Lek "I know that some other ornery souls on my crew occasionally come up with fantastic ideas that save us!" she said raising one eyebrow in a manner that Dr. Spock himself only could have rivalled.

[Lek]

[As CPO Maghouin]
[Conference Room]

"Mr. Lek, The Traveller isn't doing it for profit, least not in terms of latinum.  And he doesn't like Leyton... Leyton is putting a kink in his business, it's not safe out there for him to do his transport any more. We have... a deal shall we say that's worth far more to him than GPL!" Lena said with a smile.

"The smugglers are, least so far as we have so far ascertained are two girls on Innominatum that I know as Veronique and Pema.  I have no reason to believe that these aren't their real names.  A step up from them is or was a woman called Lilith who from their description is Cardassian or least a hybrid with mostly Cardassian features, and then above her a Romulan/Klingon woman they refer to as Hecate. 'The Traveller' is a businessman, he has a ship, 'Dreams of Avarice', transports cargos but otherwise if he's smuggling anything I don't know about it."

Lena grinned "I suspect if there is going to be another drop of drugs, that we'll be right on top of them, because we now have tracers on the girls in and out going communications."

[As Ruth]

The Captain blew out her lips.  "OK with the full contingent of Engineers from both Challenger and Innominatum, plus the new recruits that have arrived over the last week, and taking into account that you are in no state still to be going crawling through, little accessed parts of the ship..and the physicals that need to take place, how long do you anticipate that taking?" she asked.

"Also, Lt. Gianetti yes I fully endorse that one, when you were injured he more than stepped up to the mark, I'm not yet acquainted with CPO Sharkey but from your description I can see him being an asset!" she winked at Lek "I know that some other ornery souls on my crew occasionally come up with fantastic ideas that save us!" she said raising one eyebrow in a manner that Dr. Spock himself only could have rivalled.

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

Lek listened to the security officer's report with skepticism about this Traveller. A deal with Starfleet was rarely profitable and never lucrative.

"You must have something on him so that working with the Federation keeps him out of prison. Regardless of his deal, he's smuggling, he's just better at it than you think he is.

"No matter, if you know the source of the smuggling, this Veronique and Pema as well as the supply chain through this Lilith and on to top of the pyramid, Hecate. Why are you bothering with the runners? You want in on the action, you skip the bottom feeders and go through the middle man. If you knew where this Hecate was, you'd have arrested her by now. So, that leaves the point of leverage as Lilith.

"Therefore, you lean on Veronique and Pema to set up a meet with Lilith. Make them the same offer you made this Traveller. You work for us and keep your freedom, or we turn you over to the Klingons, the Romulans, the Nausicans, or whoever sounds plausible. You need to get to Hecate and Lilith is how you find her."

Lek then looked at the captain with a bit of trepidation as she wasn't about to like what he had to say.

"Ma'am, as I said, we are talking kilometers of conduit, tens of kilometers. Replacing all of that will take months. Even if we were in a full spacedock, it would take weeks. You are talking about a systemic rebuild of one of the original designs of the ship when she was launched.

"Engineering has been working on the upgrade since long before you came aboard and we've only completed about 15%. We started with the main lines that lead between the cores as they bear the brunt of the power transfer. The only options we have are a full spacedock, taking months, or not putting the ship in situations that require both cores online. None of which are good options and I know that.

"It's not true that the Academy teaches engineers to triple estimated repair times in order to look like miracle workers. That's a choice by individual engineers. I don't buy into that, when you ask me how long something will take, the time I give you is accurate as I will never, as a senior engineering cadet taught me, piddle in your ear and tell you it's raining."

"Aside from the conduit upgrade, the Challenger is otherwise fully operational. Although we were hit hard by the Bismarck, the damage was limited to EPS overloads, which we have had too much practice repairing for it to take long for us to fix."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

Lek listened to the security officer's report with skepticism about this Traveller. A deal with Starfleet was rarely profitable and never lucrative.

"You must have something on him so that working with the Federation keeps him out of prison. Regardless of his deal, he's smuggling, he's just better at it than you think he is.

"No matter, if you know the source of the smuggling, this Veronique and Pema as well as the supply chain through this Lilith and on to top of the pyramid, Hecate. Why are you bothering with the runners? You want in on the action, you skip the bottom feeders and go through the middle man. If you knew where this Hecate was, you'd have arrested her by now. So, that leaves the point of leverage as Lilith.

"Therefore, you lean on Veronique and Pema to set up a meet with Lilith. Make them the same offer you made this Traveller. You work for us and keep your freedom, or we turn you over to the Klingons, the Romulans, the Nausicans, or whoever sounds plausible. You need to get to Hecate and Lilith is how you find her."

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

[As CPO Lena Maghouin]

Lena chuckled.  "Mr. Lek, either you've been around longer than I thought, you have a background in Security or you're just more wily than anyone gives you credit for." she wagged a playful finger at the Ferengi Engineer, liking his down to earth manner of getting a point across.

"Our Ferengi friend does smuggle, but well we know what he smuggles, how much and what comes in.  It's nothing majorly bad and he drops a bottle of Scotch my way gratis on occasions so we turn a blind eye.  It's nothing dangerous or illegal like the drugs, he's just cutting himself a little more of a profit than his information gives him and avoiding duty taxes and so on.  Besides he needs a cover operation. Lilith however, is actually a bit of a stumbling block.  We've offered the girls a deal, it was part of the deal cut with The Traveller that they got out alive so to speak and we protect them.  We've had them try contacting Lilith on a number of occasions but she's not answered.  I have a feeling the one time that this Hecate answered, and thus why the girls know of her, she terminated Lilith. For what reason we don't know.  We keep hoping that Hecate is going to contact them from another source but the Lilith side of things... I think that line is dead, there's been nothing in or out since that one call from Hecate, other than us having the girls attempt contact.  And all we know is, that last contact was made to the USS Poseidon a ship we assumed was lost in the Typhon Expanse about 16 or 17 months ago now, she last put into Innominatum around 2 years ago." Lena explained.

Lek then looked at the captain with a bit of trepidation as she wasn't about to like what he had to say.

"Ma'am, as I said, we are talking kilometers of conduit, tens of kilometers. Replacing all of that will take months. Even if we were in a full spacedock, it would take weeks. You are talking about a systemic rebuild of one of the original designs of the ship when she was launched.

"Engineering has been working on the upgrade since long before you came aboard and we've only completed about 15%. We started with the main lines that lead between the cores as they bear the brunt of the power transfer. The only options we have are a full spacedock, taking months, or not putting the ship in situations that require both cores online. None of which are good options and I know that.

"It's not true that the Academy teaches engineers to triple estimated repair times in order to look like miracle workers. That's a choice by individual engineers. I don't buy into that, when you ask me how long something will take, the time I give you is accurate as I will never, as a senior engineering cadet taught me, piddle in your ear and tell you it's raining."

"Aside from the conduit upgrade, the Challenger is otherwise fully operational. Although we were hit hard by the Bismarck, the damage was limited to EPS overloads, which we have had too much practice repairing for it to take long for us to fix."

[As Ruth]

"Actually, it's not me that I was asking other than the fact that I have a feeling that Mr. Sukal might be thinking that we can use as much resources as Challenger has available.  But I'll let him talk to you of his plans, you worked well previously together, so, I'll let you work that sort of thing out together.  So long as Challenger is operational, perhaps with a little bit more to give, that's all I ask." Ruth said. "And I'm not expecting miracles, ok maybe a few, but I can't ask for more than 'operational'. I just always ask the Gods, and my Chief Engineer who may or may not be one..." she chuckled. "...to have a little bit left in the tank in case we need to step on the gas so to speak.  Do what you and your team can Mr. Lek, I know you'll do us proud as always."

She half turned then remembered something.  "Oh by the way, I prefer you give it to me straight, I already know you're a miracle worker!" the corners of her mouth hitched up.

"Mr Tempest, I believe we have an appointment with your lab."

[Lek]

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

[As CPO Lena Maghouin]

Lena chuckled.  "Mr. Lek, either you've been around longer than I thought, you have a background in Security or you're just more wily than anyone gives you credit for." she wagged a playful finger at the Ferengi Engineer, liking his down to earth manner of getting a point across.

"Our Ferengi friend does smuggle, but well we know what he smuggles, how much and what comes in.  It's nothing majorly bad and he drops a bottle of Scotch my way gratis on occasions so we turn a blind eye.  It's nothing dangerous or illegal like the drugs, he's just cutting himself a little more of a profit than his information gives him and avoiding duty taxes and so on.  Besides he needs a cover operation. Lilith however, is actually a bit of a stumbling block.  We've offered the girls a deal, it was part of the deal cut with The Traveller that they got out alive so to speak and we protect them.  We've had them try contacting Lilith on a number of occasions but she's not answered.  I have a feeling the one time that this Hecate answered, and thus why the girls know of her, she terminated Lilith. For what reason we don't know.  We keep hoping that Hecate is going to contact them from another source but the Lilith side of things... I think that line is dead, there's been nothing in or out since that one call from Hecate, other than us having the girls attempt contact.  And all we know is, that last contact was made to the USS Poseidon a ship we assumed was lost in the Typhon Expanse about 16 or 17 months ago now, she last put into Innominatum around 2 years ago." Lena explained.

[As Ruth]

"Actually, it's not me that I was asking other than the fact that I have a feeling that Mr. Sukal might be thinking that we can use as much resources as Challenger has available.  But I'll let him talk to you of his plans, you worked well previously together, so, I'll let you work that sort of thing out together.  So long as Challenger is operational, perhaps with a little bit more to give, that's all I ask." Ruth said. "And I'm not expecting miracles, ok maybe a few, but I can't ask for more than 'operational'. I just always ask the Gods, and my Chief Engineer who may or may not be one..." she chuckled. "...to have a little bit left in the tank in case we need to step on the gas so to speak.  Do what you and your team can Mr. Lek, I know you'll do us proud as always."

She half turned then remembered something.  "Oh by the way, I prefer you give it to me straight, I already know you're a miracle worker!" the corners of her mouth hitched up.

"Mr Tempest, I believe we have an appointment with your lab."

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

Lek chuckled at the security officer's statement and shook his head as he replied.

"You don't have to be a security officer to know how a smuggler works if you are a Ferengi. Since this Hecate burned Lilith, that implies she's paranoid and careful. This also implies she will do anything to protect her territory. That means the way to flush her is to challenge her monopoly. Spread word there is a new player in town and she'll have to show up to prove no one is allowed to move in on her territory."

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room]

"Mr. ch'Verret has a rather valid point, Captain.  Considering the level of treachery we have been dealing with; the biometrics idea would be much more secure than keycodes.  I do not like the way Leyton has been able to stay ahead of us on more than one occasion since even before my return.  Until we know more about how he is getting information; biometrics would be harder to hack than keycodes or stealing badges," Sukal added to Lahr's thoughts with a nod of thanks to the Andorian.  He liked this man who worked for him in Ops, and hoped he would rise through the ranks even as he had years ago.

[Conference Room - Innominatum]
[As Ruth]

Glad that some snacks were being sorted as she was feeling rather peckish and there was much still to be done, Ruth nodded sagely at Lahr and Sukal.

"Yess-sss... I'm in agreement there biometrics definitely the way to go I think.  Do it.  Round up the usual suspects and we'll get the scans done and implement that as soon as we can.  I think biometrics to lock information on datapads too.  What do you in Ops recommend for secure upload of data to some kind of central databank ... for want of somewhere better - in here - so that all information is available to all members of this task force and we can pull info and analyse as much as we need, but only those that are on the force.  They may... take Lt. Tempest for example... he could set a new just arrived on the station yesterday crewman the task of 'find all instances of naturally growing Strobolin in these sectors'... he doesn't need to give a reason, he's not breaching security, but that info needs uploaded to here... now like I said those not on the force - info given to department heads only with they only allowed to upload, but how secure would that be?  How secure could we make it?" the Captain asked.

Pleased that the XO and Captain liked his suggestion, Lahr began working out in his head who on the Captain's 'key personnel' list would need to be scanned into the biometric system.  The new folk obviously... and perhaps he should check about those who had been around less than a year.  Lahr knew Chief Petty tr'Lhoell had kept up on the biometrics for the entire ship... his replacement... well... the guy had let things slide a bit, and while Lt Taray was Chief of the entire department, she did tend to let her Chief Petty deal with most of the implementation of the ship security so she wouldn't have pressed the biometric scanning as long as there were no security issues.

As he did his planning, the Captain, Sukal and Lek continued on about the repairs to the ship, station and how best to deal with the drug ring.  None of which he felt like he could help with so he kept quiet.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

Lek chuckled at the security officer's statement and shook his head as he replied.

"You don't have to be a security officer to know how a smuggler works if you are a Ferengi. Since this Hecate burned Lilith, that implies she's paranoid and careful. This also implies she will do anything to protect her territory. That means the way to flush her is to challenge her monopoly. Spread word there is a new player in town and she'll have to show up to prove no one is allowed to move in on her territory."

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

[AS CPO Lena Maghouin]

"Someone get this guy a gold shirt... oh wait!"  Lena giggled.  "You're right Mr. Lek, I wonder if my other Ferengi friend would be willing to start peddling 'drugs'. Also I hate to say it but if there's something dodgy going on, we tend to look at the Ferengis first.  Sorry." she apologised, with a sorrowful look at Lek, she liked him there was a good 'down to Earth' ness about him. To quote one of her favourite authors from the 20th Century - he '...called a spade a bloody shovel.'

"Something maybe that our Science department could replicate that would look like her drugs but just literally be sugar and water with a bit of fruit essence or something... Mr Tempest?"  she appealed to the Science Chief for some ideas.

"Then we need to peddle it.  I wonder... would it be wise potentially for us to pretend that we are under the influence... I believe street slang is 'stoned out of our faces' or some such, and using these crystal drugs - ours that is that are no more than sugar crystals or something that could easy be dropped into a hot beverage - and have someone, this Lilith is bound to have someone watching the Outpost, see us 'dealing' them.  Anyone fancy posing as a drug dealer.  Mr ch'Verret?  I'm not familiar with how Andorians are about drugs.  If we had a Risian around I'd use them... oooh wait we do, one of your Cadets is but not sure we want to use them from what you were saying." Lena said.  "We'll work it... we need a 'product' first then we can stage that little operation!"

[AS RUTH]

"Mr Sukal... might have an idea for you later based on Lena's proto-idea which I like.  We'll thrash that one out later Lena, baiting Hecate tho, that's a do-able." Ruth said  "Mr ch'Verret are you ok spearheading the biometrics and getting that sorted as a priority and then start working on other things...perhaps liaise with Dr. York to get our key personnel in for their physicals first, and do the scans at the same time... would that be possible? Two birds, one stone... , be sure to ask if you need someone to assist, like you've just seen there are surprising developments when the departments interact.  Also... did you say USS Poseidon, Lena?" the Captain asked.  "I mean where the last known communication with Lilith came from?"

"Yes, why?" Lena replied puzzled.

"Mr ch'Verret... wasn't the Poseidon one of the ships we identified as having been around the Redav?..."

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Deck 14 - Conference Room]

"Mr. ch'Verret has a rather valid point, Captain.  Considering the level of treachery we have been dealing with; the biometrics idea would be much more secure than keycodes.  I do not like the way Leyton has been able to stay ahead of us on more than one occasion since even before my return.  Until we know more about how he is getting information; biometrics would be harder to hack than keycodes or stealing badges," Sukal added to Lahr's thoughts with a nod of thanks to the Andorian.  He liked this man who worked for him in Ops, and hoped he would rise through the ranks even as he had years ago.

[Conference Room - Innominatum]

[As Ruth]

Glad that some snacks were being sorted as she was feeling rather peckish and there was much still to be done, Ruth nodded sagely at Lahr and Sukal.

"Yess-sss... I'm in agreement there biometrics definitely the way to go I think.  Do it.  Round up the usual suspects and we'll get the scans done and implement that as soon as we can.  I think biometrics to lock information on datapads too.  What do you in Ops recommend for secure upload of data to some kind of central databank ... for want of somewhere better - in here - so that all information is available to all members of this task force and we can pull info and analyse as much as we need, but only those that are on the force.  They may... take Lt. Tempest for example... he could set a new just arrived on the station yesterday crewman the task of 'find all instances of naturally growing Strobolin in these sectors'... he doesn't need to give a reason, he's not breaching security, but that info needs uploaded to here... now like I said those not on the force - info given to department heads only with they only allowed to upload, but how secure would that be?  How secure could we make it?" the Captain asked.

He was starting on the list of those that needed to be added - the Captain, Commander Sukal, Ensign Walding, Ensign Litt when the Station security officer addressed him.

[Conference Room - Deck 14 - Innominatum Outpost]

[AS CPO Lena Maghouin]

"Someone get this guy a gold shirt... oh wait!"  Lena giggled.  "You're right Mr. Lek, I wonder if my other Ferengi friend would be willing to start peddling 'drugs'. Also I hate to say it but if there's something dodgy going on, we tend to look at the Ferengis first.  Sorry." she apologised, with a sorrowful look at Lek, she liked him there was a good 'down to Earth' ness about him. To quote one of her favourite authors from the 20th Century - he '...called a spade a bloody shovel.'

"Something maybe that our Science department could replicate that would look like her drugs but just literally be sugar and water with a bit of fruit essence or something... Mr Tempest?"  she appealed to the Science Chief for some ideas.

"Then we need to peddle it.  I wonder... would it be wise potentially for us to pretend that we are under the influence... I believe street slang is 'stoned out of our faces' or some such, and using these crystal drugs - ours that is that are no more than sugar crystals or something that could easy be dropped into a hot beverage - and have someone, this Lilith is bound to have someone watching the Outpost, see us 'dealing' them.  Anyone fancy posing as a drug dealer.  Mr ch'Verret?  I'm not familiar with how Andorians are about drugs.  If we had a Risian around I'd use them... oooh wait we do, one of your Cadets is but not sure we want to use them from what you were saying." Lena said.  "We'll work it... we need a 'product' first then we can stage that little operation!"

Lahr blinked as his name was mentioned and he looked up from his PADD swiveling his antenna with a wince towards the woman speaking.

"Um, I'm not certain what you mean by that.. saf can be used recreationally by other species and is often sold on the blackmarket by those who are less than legit but it's a ... reproductive aid among my people."

He was grateful when her attention turned to the idea of using the Risian cadet.. until there was the uncertainty of his loyalty.  The notion of having to play the role of a drug smuggler didn't appeal but he'd do it if nothing better was suggested.

[AS RUTH]

"Mr Sukal... might have an idea for you later based on Lena's proto-idea which I like.  We'll thrash that one out later Lena, baiting Hecate tho, that's a do-able." Ruth said  "Mr ch'Verret are you ok spearheading the biometrics and getting that sorted as a priority and then start working on other things...perhaps liaise with Dr. York to get our key personnel in for their physicals first, and do the scans at the same time... would that be possible? Two birds, one stone... , be sure to ask if you need someone to assist, like you've just seen there are surprising developments when the departments interact.  Also... did you say USS Poseidon, Lena?" the Captain asked.  "I mean where the last known communication with Lilith came from?"

"Yes, why?" Lena replied puzzled.

"Mr ch'Verret... wasn't the Poseidon one of the ships we identified as having been around the Redav?..."

His thoughts on drug smuggling got redirected back to the biometrics when the Captain addressed him next.

"Yes Ma'am am already on it!  Most old crew have it done already... its just new staff since last fall that would need it.  So yourself, Commander Sukal and Ensign Walding and Cadet Litt here and your sisters if you are wanting them to have access as well."

When the Captain questioned Lena about the ship, the Poseidon, Lahr finally clued into the name.

"Oh.. yes Ma'am it was!  She was one of the ship warp trails we encountered."