S3:E4 ASSASSIN'S CREED

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Conference Room Two - Innominatum Base]

Lek didn't reply to Dradis as it was patently obvious with whom he would be spending his time and he didn't know Dradis well enough to share that sort of information.

Lek didn't like the sound of that 'special job' task one little bit, but there was nothing to say to something like that other than.

"Yes Ma'am. The only thing to report with engineering is that the plasma conduit refit is proceeding nicely, but we are only 40% complete. As I said, it is a miserable task requiring replacing literally kilometers of conduits. Other than that, all systems are nominal."

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

"Don't look so glum, Mr. Lek.  You'll be working with Mr ch'Verret which I'm sure isn't that much of a hardship, and getting out of the 'miserable task' of the conduits for a little while.  Or at least something to take your mind off it temporarily!" Ruth grinned.  "Thank you for the report, I know it will be a long job, and by the time it's done you'll likely almost need to start at the beginning again! If it's anything like painting the Forth Bridge!"

[Djann Tempest]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Base]

[AS Chief Dradis]

Dradis chuckled as Tempest came in  "Looks like you've just cost me a drink...well ok 2, Mr Tempest.  I had a bet on that it would be Lt. Lek was next here!  What brings you so early?!"

"As for your training, yes Richard, I think we can arrange that in as many disciplines as you like, although I suggest one at a time so you're not inundated.  I'll speak to the Captain about it soon as she's free, that might be after she's back from taking her sisters to DS9 or whatever, and the other... that I'll discuss soon as I see her."

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Base]

Smirking a little to the Chief Tempest offered "Next time we're in a lounge, the first round is one me next time". The Science officer sat at the table across from Dradis.

"As to your question, I feel as a new addition to the senior officer team I should put forth an effort to be extra present as it were" he looked briefly down and realized he was almost unfamiliar with the chief on a personal level. "Tell me Chief, what brought you here first though?"

[Sukal]

[Conference Briefing Meeting - Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Base]

[As: CPO Lena Maghouin - Chief of Outpost Security|Lt. Taray - Chief of Security (Challenger)|Dr. Maggie York|Ruth]

Lena Maghouin cleared her throat and for good measure, put up a hand once she was sure that no one was going to jump in ahead of her.  She and Taray had exchanged looks and Taray nodded for Lena to take point.

"CPO Maghouin, Outpost Security Chief for anyone that doesn't know me yet,.." she said standing.  "Two small items of query.  First since this is a meeting about the Conference,...Did you have a preferred rota for the security teams drawn up?  Also with reference to that, given the size and importance of this conference while we have Lt. Aune and his dog and Lt. Commander Amoreen to help, and both of them are sufficiently experienced to take charge of an area, we are still trying to cover too much of an area with too few crew.  Now I've spoken with Lt. Taray and she's said that Challenger will require a minimal contingent of staff while she's docked, and with your and/or Captain Sigurdsdottir's permission we intend to pull them on duty on and around the Conference... we'd also like to request that anyone who has had Security training..."

Maghouin and Taray exchanged a glance, then Taray gave Lahr a look, then looked at Sukal and the Captain hoping to convey her meaning.

"... could be seconded to us to make up the numbers."

Ruth smiled.  "Lahr's needed for other duties, I'm afraid.  He'll be on a special job for me, as will Lt. Lek, it will be taking up a lot of their time, even keeping at it in a fair amount of what would be their down time.  Sorry.  However, anyone else... yes, certainly.  I'd volunteer to take a shift myself but for the fact I'm not going to be a lot of use 4 days by shuttle away!"

She looked at Lahr and gave him a small smile.  She did have a job for both him and Lek but this wasn't the meeting to address that in, plus a promise was a promise.  While she didn't anticipate any major trouble at the conference, as Sukal had pointed out, there was enough of them didn't trust - Vulcan-speak for 'would rip each other's throats out given half a chance' she was sure - each other, she didn't want to put Lahr into a combat situation if she could possibly help it.  There were going to be times in the future of dealing with Leyton she was sure, when it couldn't be avoided but the times that could be, she'd keep her promise.

"Lahr, Lek I'll see you after this meeting about that!" she said with a small wink.

Taray spoke up.  "We were wondering.  This is, despite a lot of the delegates having superglued what passes for courteous smiles on their faces, for appearances sake.... is supposed to be a peaceful conference, correct?  So... are we to be armed with phasers, on stun obviously, and will the Captain want the Delta Flyer ordinanced and side arms checked out for her.  I'm sure a phaser is much more convenient than her throwing axes in a small space!"

The Captain chuckled."Certainly side arms for myself and everyone travelling with me,  you're right not much throwing room! I haven't flown for a while but I believe that's still common 'law' for most of Federation air space.  Dradis? Mr. Litt can you confirm or deny this, esp. Mr. Litt as we'll be sharing the pilot duties on this trip?" Ruth asked.

Another hand went up at the top of the table and Maggie stood up.

"Forgive me, but I have a suggestion.  We've done 95% of the..." she gave the Command pair a look and with a returned look of 'say it but don't say exactly why' from the Captain she continued.  "...ongoing physicals with a view to reviewing the state of health on the Outpost following their encounter with Leyton prior to your arrival Captain..."

She paused, that covered it both truthfully, but while missing out that it was to go on the offensive with Leyton again...

"... we have a little more leeway to offer another 'service' if you like.  I was thinking having roving medical teams, in pairs based around a certain area, say for example the Promenade - could have 4 or 5 teams up there covering a stretch, maybe 4 or 5 teams in the Conference Arena itself, with medkits, possibly hover stretchers more widely spread out, but basically to provide First Aid cover.  There are going to be a lot of people, we can't set environmental controls to suit every species unless we had them in individual pods so potentially there will be people getting too hot or cold, so that causing its own health problems as well as it being a slightly volatile situation.  and with approximately 500 or so extra people at this conference with all their entourages... someone is going to bump or hurt themselves at some point!"  Maggie said shrugging.

"So roving medical teams, either in pairs or pair up with Security... whichever is more convenient.  Also I've asked Dr. Al-Hambra if they will use the Secondary Sickbay for any visitor medical issues, leaving Primary Sickbay on base for residents and Fleet personnel.  Dr. Chang will be working with me on crew matters..." she stressed that with a small glance to the left to indicate the Primary Conference room and the Think Tank meeting next, "...and co-ordinating the roving teams." Dr. York concluded.

"I think that's a good idea, get the rotas and proposals to me and Mr. Sukal by the end of the day.  Mr. Sukal..." she said handing the reins back to Sukal to wrap up the meeting.  She hoped there wouldn't be too many other questions and those who were scheduled to be in the other meeting would have the sense to let others disperse first and/or not make it obvious that they were going next door.  She didn't want anyone not cleared to see what they were up to.

The First Officer listened without interruption to the various comments - which were not many - concerning the Conference.  When all was said and done; the Captain had given him back the floor to answer any questions.

"I had already considered adding Security and Operations personnel from the CHALLENGER to the security of the Conference.  I believe we can easily move two-thirds or more of those personnel to the station for this event in order to help better cover shifts so we are not spread so thin.  The JANARAN can also give about a quarter of their Security personnel; as their main function is to patrol outside.  This should help bolster our forces here for this event.  Shift rotations will be ready by then.  I will make sure Lieutenant Commander Amoreen takes over a shift to cover command in order to better spread the work load around.  As for Medical, I believe that is a rather excellent suggestion.  So, we will implement that plan as well.  Those Medical personnel who have field trauma training would be better qualified for such roving roles as they will be more use to handling potential hazard zones," Sukal answered with a nod at those who had spoken up.

"Now, as I see there seems to be nothing else; we will adjourn for those of us not needed for the Think Tank, and let the rest of you get to work.  Remember, by tomorrow, the Conference will be in full swing, and we must be alert.  That is all," he added after a brief pause, and nodded for those not involved in the next meeting to be dismissed.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Conference Room 2]

[Conference Briefing Meeting - Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Base]

[As: CPO Lena Maghouin - Chief of Outpost Security|Lt. Taray - Chief of Security (Challenger)|Dr. Maggie York|Ruth]

Lena Maghouin cleared her throat and for good measure, put up a hand once she was sure that no one was going to jump in ahead of her.  She and Taray had exchanged looks and Taray nodded for Lena to take point.

"CPO Maghouin, Outpost Security Chief for anyone that doesn't know me yet,..
...
Now I've spoken with Lt. Taray and she's said that Challenger will require a minimal contingent of staff while she's docked, and with your and/or Captain Sigurdsdottir's permission we intend to pull them on duty on and around the Conference... we'd also like to request that anyone who has had Security training..."

Maghouin and Taray exchanged a glance, then Taray gave Lahr a look, then looked at Sukal and the Captain hoping to convey her meaning.

"... could be seconded to us to make up the numbers."

Ruth smiled.  "Lahr's needed for other duties, I'm afraid.  He'll be on a special job for me, as will Lt. Lek, it will be taking up a lot of their time, even keeping at it in a fair amount of what would be their down time.  Sorry.  However, anyone else... yes, certainly.  I'd volunteer to take a shift myself but for the fact I'm not going to be a lot of use 4 days by shuttle away!"

She looked at Lahr and gave him a small smile.

"Lahr, Lek I'll see you after this meeting about that!" she said with a small wink.

At the exchange of glances between Maghouin and Taray, and then Taray's look towards him, Lahr's worst fears reared its' head.  Lahr didn't have to feign the droop to his antenna as the Benzite turned her glance towards the Captain and Sukal.

Oh please no... ! he silently begged.

And it seemed as if the Captain heard his plea for she cut them off and told them yes to pretty much anyone but him.. and Lek.   Lahr let out a sign of relief.

When the Captain stated she wanted to speak to him and Lek afterwards, he was grateful enough to ignore the fact that meeting with the Captain privately would be harder to explain away to others who might be trying to suss out the motivations of the new Andorian badboy on the station.

"Yes, Ma'am" he acknowledged.

Lek also answered but didn't seem too pleased to which the Captain responded.

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

"Don't look so glum, Mr. Lek.  You'll be working with Mr ch'Verret which I'm sure isn't that much of a hardship, and getting out of the 'miserable task' of the conduits for a little while.  Or at least something to take your mind off it temporarily!" Ruth grinned.  "Thank you for the report, I know it will be a long job, and by the time it's done you'll likely almost need to start at the beginning again! If it's anything like painting the Forth Bridge!"

Lahr bit his lip and kept his head down working at taking rather poor meeting notes, to keep from frowning as the Captain continued on about the work Lek was supposed to do with him.   Lahr didn't know if she was hinting at their drug-dealer teamwork or if she was giving them something else together to help give reason for why they might be hanging together more often.  But still that shouldn't even be hinted at during this meeting.

Then the XO was wrapping up the meeting.  Afterwards Lahr saved his meeting notes, fired them off to Sukal and then looked over towards the Captain as the room began to clear.  He took his time gathering up his stuff, noticing that several of the think tank members were also taking their time.

Lahr stood before the Captain.  "You wished to speak to me Ma'am? Mentioned you had a task for me?"

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Conference Room 2]

At the exchange of glances between Maghouin and Taray, and then Taray's look towards him, Lahr's worst fears reared its' head.  Lahr didn't have to feign the droop to his antenna as the Benzite turned her glance towards the Captain and Sukal.

Oh please no... ! he silently begged.

And it seemed as if the Captain heard his plea for she cut them off and told them yes to pretty much anyone but him.. and Lek.   Lahr let out a sign of relief.

When the Captain stated she wanted to speak to him and Lek afterwards, he was grateful enough to ignore the fact that meeting with the Captain privately would be harder to explain away to others who might be trying to suss out the motivations of the new Andorian badboy on the station.

"Yes, Ma'am" he acknowledged.

Lek also answered but didn't see too pleased to which the Captain responded.

Lahr bit his lip and kept his head down working at taking rather poor meeting notes, to keep from frowning as the Captain continued on about the work Lek was supposed to do with him.   Lahr didn't know if she was hinting at their drug-dealer teamwork or if she was giving them something else together to help give reason for why they might be hanging together more often.  But still that shouldn't even be hinted at during this meeting.

Then the XO was wrapping up the meeting.  Afterwards Lahr saved his meeting notes, fired them off to Sukal and then looked over towards the Captain as the room began to clear.  He took his time gathering up his stuff, noticing that several of the think tank members were also taking their time.

Lahr stood before the Captain.  "You wished to speak to me Ma'am? Mentioned you had a task for me?"

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

"Hi Lahr,.. " the Captain said with a smile.  "A promise is a promise.  Also don't look so worried when I single you out!" she mock chided.

"I've mentioned it before, and the reason I've only called you out is you can pout as you do so well after speaking to me then take yourself and Lek down to the bar and plot...and it looks 'normal'!!"  she raised one eyebrow and tried to look stern as if she was giving him a dressing down for anyone that was watching them... she hoped Lahr cottoned on because if not he wasn't the Andorian for the job!  She cast an eye around the room and bar 2 people walking out of the door at that moment, the only people still hanging around were those who were going to be in the 2nd meeting anyhow, those that formed the nuclei of the Think Tank.

"This faux drug gang, new drug dealer on the block thing.  Arrange it between you and Lek, you are both the drug dealers.  Lek can kill two birds with one stone, as I'm going to have the 'drugs' left in my...erm the Delta Flyer attached to the Challenger, so you can go pick them up, and he can check out at least that Flyer.  I thought with that many more people, more tongues to work their way back to Hecate about a new drug ring, was too good an opportunity to pass up on.  I will have the duty rota reflect your working the special assignment." Ruth said with the volume of her voice achieving more normal levels as she said the last two words.  She patted Lahr on the shoulder both in a comforting way and like she was being merciful and had done the telling off and had forgiven Lahr, and whispered "I'll never put you in a role you're uncomfortable in, so if you don't want to do this, just tell me."

Ruth spotted Dr. Chang sitting by Maggie York.

"Dr. Chang, may I borrow you a second?!  And Mr. Walding, Mr. Litt... just taking the opportunity in our 5 minute break between meetings to organise a few things!  Grab a drink and join me up here!"

"Sven, stay for this please, then you and the Security Chiefs can go check out the Delta Flyers!" she called across to Stryker.

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Base]

Smirking a little to the Chief Tempest offered "Next time we're in a lounge, the first round is one me next time". The Science officer sat at the table across from Dradis.

"As to your question, I feel as a new addition to the senior officer team I should put forth an effort to be extra present as it were" he looked briefly down and realized he was almost unfamiliar with the chief on a personal level. "Tell me Chief, what brought you here first though?"

[As Dradis]

Since the first meeting was at an end, Dradis took the 5 min break between to answer Tempest.

"Yeah I get that.  And I presume you mean Innominatum or Challenger.  Challenger it was I suspect like you, assignment orders, that was under Admiral Dylan a long time ago.  Innominatum... well that was a few months ago, fighting Leyton... don't really want to talk about that without a damn stiff drink if you don't mind!"  the Betazoid said with a rum look on his face.  The jolly features he normally had turned slightly morose.

"Anyhow, we get to sort Leyton once and for all soon I hope." he finished lamely.

[Oscar Chang]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

"Hi Lahr,.. " the Captain said with a smile.  "A promise is a promise.  Also don't look so worried when I single you out!" she mock chided.

"I've mentioned it before, and the reason I've only called you out is you can pout as you do so well after speaking to me then take yourself and Lek down to the bar and plot...and it looks 'normal'!!"  she raised one eyebrow and tried to look stern as if she was giving him a dressing down for anyone that was watching them... she hoped Lahr cottoned on because if not he wasn't the Andorian for the job!

"This faux drug gang, new drug dealer on the block thing.  Arrange it between you and Lek, you are both the drug dealers.  Lek can kill two birds with one stone, as I'm going to have the 'drugs' left in my...erm the Delta Flyer attached to the Challenger, so you can go pick them up, and he can check out at least that Flyer.  I thought with that many more people, more tongues to work their way back to Hecate about a new drug ring, was too good an opportunity to pass up on.  I will have the duty rota reflect your working the special assignment." Ruth said with the volume of her voice achieving more normal levels as she said the last two words.  She patted Lahr on the shoulder both in a comforting way and like she was being merciful and had done the telling off and had forgiven Lahr, and whispered "I'll never put you in a role you're uncomfortable in, so if you don't want to do this, just tell me."

Ruth spotted Dr. Chang sitting by Maggie York.

"Dr. Chang, may I borrow you a second?!  And Mr. Walding, Mr. Litt... just taking the opportunity in our 5 minute break between meetings to organise a few things!  Grab a drink and join me up here!"

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

Chang would be sitting next to Doctor York, throwing a hypospray up and down. He'd jump in his seat and drop the hypospray when he was called. "Oh! Sorry, of course ma'am! He'd pick it up and place it on the table before standing up and walking over to the replicator.

He'd clear his throat, "Tea, oolong. Hot." A glass cup of steaming oolong tea fizzled into existence and Chang removed it from the replicator, sipping on it and would burn his tongue. "Ow!" He would whisper. He'd place it down on the table, letting it cool down and would walk over to the Captain. "Sorry about that, so what's our mission ma'am?"

[Stryker]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Conference Room 2]

The fact that they were in Conference Room 2 should have clued in the Andorian that this was NOT the Super Secret meeting... but just a usual briefing.  But then Lahr was a bit sleep deprived with his efforts to get into the drug ring crowd.  Late nights and poor behaviors were taking its toll.   Given this revelation, Lahr had to play the role of the disciplined crewman.  While the Captain and Commander brought the meeting to order, Lahr sighed and opened a text program on his PADD to take notes.

Taking only periodic notes - he was supposed to be an unwilling participant here afterall - Lahr  glanced over towards the new guy in the room.  The human was huge!  The Andorian didn't think the species grew to that size, except when overweight.

Innominatum Outpost || Conference Room 2

Sven was used to the sideways glances, the open gawking or whatever else people did whey then their eyes were upon him. The fact that he had also competed in competitions with the spotlights on him deadened his nerves. So, in response to the slightly curious Andorian, Sven gave him a nod and continued to listen to the discussion about him.

The First Officer listened without interruption to the various comments - which were not many - concerning the Conference.  When all was said and done; the Captain had given him back the floor to answer any questions.

"I had already considered adding Security and Operations personnel from the CHALLENGER to the security of the Conference.  I believe we can easily move two-thirds or more of those personnel to the station for this event in order to help better cover shifts so we are not spread so thin.  The JANARAN can also give about a quarter of their Security personnel; as their main function is to patrol outside.  This should help bolster our forces here for this event.  Shift rotations will be ready by then.  I will make sure Lieutenant Commander Amoreen takes over a shift to cover command in order to better spread the work load around.  As for Medical, I believe that is a rather excellent suggestion.  So, we will implement that plan as well.  Those Medical personnel who have field trauma training would be better qualified for such roving roles as they will be more use to handling potential hazard zones," Sukal answered with a nod at those who had spoken up.

"Now, as I see there seems to be nothing else; we will adjourn for those of us not needed for the Think Tank, and let the rest of you get to work.  Remember, by tomorrow, the Conference will be in full swing, and we must be alert.  That is all," he added after a brief pause, and nodded for those not involved in the next meeting to be dismissed.

Given all that was around him with the security details, Sven thought that it might be a good idea to actively search for energetics. I.e. explosive devices. The fact that the Captain was using her Delta flyer as means for transporting faux drugs as she took her sisters back to Star Fleet posed another problem.

The large man shifted his weight and walked over to the Vulcan.

"Sir, with your permission, I would like to put together a small taskforce for sniffing out any potential bombs, listening devices or other materials that shouldn't belong. I believe that we should also secure the Captain's Delta flyer."

[Sukal]

Given all that was around him with the security details, Sven thought that it might be a good idea to actively search for energetics. I.e. explosive devices. The fact that the Captain was using her Delta flyer as means for transporting faux drugs as she took her sisters back to Star Fleet posed another problem.

The large man shifted his weight and walked over to the Vulcan.

"Sir, with your permission, I would like to put together a small taskforce for sniffing out any potential bombs, listening devices or other materials that shouldn't belong. I believe that we should also secure the Captain's Delta flyer."

Sukal turned to the massive man who had come from the ATHENA to help them out, and was a close friend to the Captain after he was addressed.

"That is excellent thinking, Lieutenant.  I will let you handpick the team members from Ms. Maghouin's people, and am confident you do an excellent job at this task.  Thank you for considering such an idea," Sukal praised the man with a nod of respect before sitting down to prepare for the second stage of meetings for the day.  While everyone else would be done after this particular one, except the Captain, he still had at least one more for the day, and another tomorrow.  The one for the Federation Special Envoy was not one he was looking forward to.  There was something about her he could not place, but he couldn't really put it into words.

It was then he noted that Lieutenant Commander Amoreen had not attended the previous meeting.  He frowned slightly before remembering she was in charge of customs for the moment.  It would have been a bit difficult for her to drop such a post to attend.  The frown vanished, but there was still a sense of unease from the Vulcan/hybrid First Officer.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Conference Room 2]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

"Hi Lahr,.. " the Captain said with a smile.  "A promise is a promise.  Also don't look so worried when I single you out!" she mock chided.

"I've mentioned it before, and the reason I've only called you out is you can pout as you do so well after speaking to me then take yourself and Lek down to the bar and plot...and it looks 'normal'!!"  she raised one eyebrow and tried to look stern as if she was giving him a dressing down for anyone that was watching them... she hoped Lahr cottoned on because if not he wasn't the Andorian for the job!

"This faux drug gang, new drug dealer on the block thing.  Arrange it between you and Lek, you are both the drug dealers.  Lek can kill two birds with one stone, as I'm going to have the 'drugs' left in my...erm the Delta Flyer attached to the Challenger, so you can go pick them up, and he can check out at least that Flyer.  I thought with that many more people, more tongues to work their way back to Hecate about a new drug ring, was too good an opportunity to pass up on.  I will have the duty rota reflect your working the special assignment." Ruth said with the volume of her voice achieving more normal levels as she said the last two words.  She patted Lahr on the shoulder both in a comforting way and like she was being merciful and had done the telling off and had forgiven Lahr, and whispered "I'll never put you in a role you're uncomfortable in, so if you don't want to do this, just tell me."

Ruth spotted Dr. Chang sitting by Maggie York.

"Dr. Chang, may I borrow you a second?!  And Mr. Walding, Mr. Litt... just taking the opportunity in our 5 minute break between meetings to organise a few things!  Grab a drink and join me up here!"

"Sven, stay for this please, then you and the Security Chiefs can go check out the Delta Flyers!" she called across to Stryker.

The sleep-deprived Andorian looked to the Captain more in surprise rather than a pout as she spoke.  He glanced about the still emptying room - true most of who remained were the Think Tankers' but there was still her colleague from the Athena that Lahr wasn't sure about.  He couldn't recall if the Captain had wanted the visitor on the Think Tank team or not.  But now was not the time to question her about it.  Not while she was openly speaking about the drug ring plans in an unsecure area!  Lahr's antenna hung low in embarrassment.

At her statement that she'd never have him do anything he was uncomfortable with, caused a slightly frown. When he spoke it was just a mumble, barely heard past her.

"Thank you ma'am, I appreciate that.  I do." and he meant it.  She could have easily reassigned him back to Security had she wanted to.  But when she gave him the opportunity to back out of this undercover op, he shook his head.  "No, ma'am." he stated firmly  then in a quieter tone, "I can do this."

When it seemed like she was done Lahr, kept his expression neutral as he requested permission to be dismissed.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum]

Chang would be sitting next to Doctor York, throwing a hypospray up and down. He'd jump in his seat and drop the hypospray when he was called. "Oh! Sorry, of course ma'am! He'd pick it up and place it on the table before standing up and walking over to the replicator.

He'd clear his throat, "Tea, oolong. Hot." A glass cup of steaming oolong tea fizzled into existence and Chang removed it from the replicator, sipping on it and would burn his tongue. "Ow!" He would whisper. He'd place it down on the table, letting it cool down and would walk over to the Captain. "Sorry about that, so what's our mission ma'am?"

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Outpost]

Ruth chuckled.  "Mission?" she nodded at her twin sisters and grinned.  "The mission, such as it is, is to deliver this pair of lovely academic ladies to DS9 to join the Academy shuttle, leaving tomorrow.  However, Lt. Commander Sukal and I thought it wasn't going to be a good idea for me to fly them over there on my own - 4 days there, day on base and 4 days back - solo.  It's not the flying that we're worried about although if you want to get a couple of hours flight training in there or back you're welcome to, since I am flight trained, so much as the idea of the Captain, and psuedo-Commandant of the Outpost of Innominatum being out there in potentially hostile, Leyton-controlled territory, on my own when I'm coming back.  So.... we decided to put together a small team."  she explained quickly.

"Myself, Mr. Litt to share the flying, yourself in case of any injuries.  I don't forsee any but other than basics I don't have any medical skill, I can mostly stop people dying but that's about it!" she winked, "... and either Ensign Walding or Crewman Gohun, whomever is rota'd to it with everything that Security have on the go at the moment.  And for your trouble you have about half a day on DS9 to have a look around.  I basically want to dock one day, what is left of that day and until 2 hours after the Academy shuttle leaves, you can have shore leave, but I don't want to hang around on DS9 if I don't have to, because there's far too much to do here, not that I don't trust Lt. Commander Sukal to run everything as smoothly as only a Vulcan can... and I wouldn't be leaving at all at this time if it weren't that it's my sisters and a promise was made long since."

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Conference Room 2]

The sleep-deprived Andorian looked to the Captain more in surprise rather than a pout as she spoke.  He glanced about the still emptying room - true most of who remained were the Think Tankers' but there was still her colleague from the Athena that Lahr wasn't sure about.  He couldn't recall if the Captain had wanted the visitor on the Think Tank team or not.  But now was not the time to question her about it.  Not while she was openly speaking about the drug ring plans in an unsecure area!  Lahr's antenna hung low in embarrassment.

At her statement that she'd never have him do anything he was uncomfortable with, caused a slightly frown. When he spoke it was just a mumble, barely heard past her.

"Thank you ma'am, I appreciate that.  I do." and he meant it.  She could have easily reassigned him back to Security had she wanted to.  But when she gave him the opportunity to back out of this undercover op, he shook his head.  "No, ma'am." he stated firmly  then in a quieter tone, "I can do this."

When it seemed like she was done Lahr, kept his expression neutral as he requested permission to be dismissed.

"I'll let you get settled for the other meeting Lahr.  Thank you.  Alternatively you can give your information to Mr. Sukal since I believe Mr. Lek has already given me his update and you can go and liaise your special task with your co-operative!  I'll be sure to get a report of all updates sent to your PADDs" she said with a smile.  She knew that if he could get out of it, Lahr would prefer not to sit in yet another meeting so she gave him the wiggle room to get out of it!

She caught the glance at Sven.  "Were you introduced PO2 Shran'Lahr ch'Verret, Lt. Sven 'Stryker' Aune.  He'll be with us and he has the clearance.  Oh I think Lek wanted to check out the Delta Flyer.  Make sure you get the pilot seat adjusted to my height!" she said with a wink, It wasn't the best of ways to get the drugs to Lek and Lahr but it was 'a' way.

Innominatum Outpost || Conference Room 2

Sven was used to the sideways glances, the open gawking or whatever else people did whey then their eyes were upon him. The fact that he had also competed in competitions with the spotlights on him deadened his nerves. So, in response to the slightly curious Andorian, Sven gave him a nod and continued to listen to the discussion about him.

Given all that was around him with the security details, Sven thought that it might be a good idea to actively search for energetics. I.e. explosive devices. The fact that the Captain was using her Delta flyer as means for transporting faux drugs as she took her sisters back to Star Fleet posed another problem.

The large man shifted his weight and walked over to the Vulcan.

"Sir, with your permission, I would like to put together a small taskforce for sniffing out any potential bombs, listening devices or other materials that shouldn't belong. I believe that we should also secure the Captain's Delta flyer."

Sukal turned to the massive man who had come from the ATHENA to help them out, and was a close friend to the Captain after he was addressed.

"That is excellent thinking, Lieutenant.  I will let you handpick the team members from Ms. Maghouin's people, and am confident you do an excellent job at this task.  Thank you for considering such an idea," Sukal praised the man with a nod of respect before sitting down to prepare for the second stage of meetings for the day.  While everyone else would be done after this particular one, except the Captain, he still had at least one more for the day, and another tomorrow.  The one for the Federation Special Envoy was not one he was looking forward to.  There was something about her he could not place, but he couldn't really put it into words.

It was then he noted that Lieutenant Commander Amoreen had not attended the previous meeting.  He frowned slightly before remembering she was in charge of customs for the moment.  It would have been a bit difficult for her to drop such a post to attend.  The frown vanished, but there was still a sense of unease from the Vulcan/hybrid First Officer.

"Thanks Sven, I echo Mr. Sukal's words.  Can't be too careful." the Captain said with a grateful smile.

[Just before the Conference Briefing- Ops/Security - Challenger Shuttlebay 1]

"In the Flyer?" Crewman Mystic, one of the Flight Engineering crewman remarked.

"Aye... seems she's taking her twin sisters over to Academy...herself!" Cadet M'rat replied holding out a PADD.  "And the easiest way to get all the twins stuff down here was a location tag beam... So we just have to make sure it gets here from the twins quarters."

There was the shimmering light inside the flyer and Mystic put his head in after it dissipated.

"Wll I can't be 100% sure but that certainly looks like that's all of it... looks like someone moving home!" he declared.

"Oh and she wants this put on the flight control seat."  M'rat said with a shrug passing over a small package about the size of a house brick wrapped in white paper, but rounded on all sides.  Mystic took it and placed it on the pilots seat.  "She's piloting so probably just something she doesn't want to forget.  Might be a last minute gift for the girls, you know what she's like, such a caring woman."

"True, and we are here to serve and obey not to question the actions of the higher ups!" Mystic grinned.

"Agreed, well I think that's it for now..." M'rat started to turn away from the shuttle and was sure she heard a small whine.

"Did you hear that, like a small whine..." she asked.

"Oh they're testing engines next door, was probably that!" Mystic said.

"Probably..." M'rat said unconvinced.

[Oscar Chang]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Outpost]

Ruth chuckled.  "Mission?" she nodded at her twin sisters and grinned.  "The mission, such as it is, is to deliver this pair of lovely academic ladies to DS9 to join the Academy shuttle, leaving tomorrow.  However, Lt. Commander Sukal and I thought it wasn't going to be a good idea for me to fly them over there on my own - 4 days there, day on base and 4 days back - solo.  It's not the flying that we're worried about although if you want to get a couple of hours flight training in there or back you're welcome to, since I am flight trained, so much as the idea of the Captain, and psuedo-Commandant of the Outpost of Innominatum being out there in potentially hostile, Leyton-controlled territory, on my own when I'm coming back.  So.... we decided to put together a small team."  she explained quickly.

"Myself, Mr. Litt to share the flying, yourself in case of any injuries.  I don't forsee any but other than basics I don't have any medical skill, I can mostly stop people dying but that's about it!" she winked, "... and either Ensign Walding or Crewman Gohun, whomever is rota'd to it with everything that Security have on the go at the moment.  And for your trouble you have about half a day on DS9 to have a look around.  I basically want to dock one day, what is left of that day and until 2 hours after the Academy shuttle leaves, you can have shore leave, but I don't want to hang around on DS9 if I don't have to, because there's far too much to do here, not that I don't trust Lt. Commander Sukal to run everything as smoothly as only a Vulcan can... and I wouldn't be leaving at all at this time if it weren't that it's my sisters and a promise was made long since."

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Outpost]

He faced the twins. "Ah, some good old recruits? They'll have a blast at the academy and will have a helluva career ahead of them! I've been out for... a few years and I'm finishing my residency aboard the Challie, so by the end of this month, I'd have a PhD in medicine!" He gave them a wink, then turned around to the Captain.

"And, ma'am I doubt there will be any injuries during this trip, but you can never be too careful can you?" He chuckled, and continued, "So 4 days there, and 4 days back with a little bit in between? That's a long trip in a shuttle I have to say. But yeah, I wouldn't mind hanging around DS9 for a bit. I've never been there, and would like to meet some Bajorans! To me, they're quite fascinating..." He trailed off into his own thoughts. "Anyways, so when do we leave ma'am?" He said as moved back to his seat, taking a sip of his now, cold cup of oolong tea.

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Outpost]

He faced the twins. "Ah, some good old recruits? They'll have a blast at the academy and will have a helluva career ahead of them! I've been out for... a few years and I'm finishing my residency aboard the Challie, so by the end of this month, I'd have a PhD in medicine!" He gave them a wink, then turned around to the Captain.

"And, ma'am I doubt there will be any injuries during this trip, but you can never be too careful can you?" He chuckled, and continued, "So 4 days there, and 4 days back with a little bit in between? That's a long trip in a shuttle I have to say. But yeah, I wouldn't mind hanging around DS9 for a bit. I've never been there, and would like to meet some Bajorans! To me, they're quite fascinating..." He trailed off into his own thoughts. "Anyways, so when do we leave ma'am?" He said as moved back to his seat, taking a sip of his now, cold cup of oolong tea.

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum

"Day after tomorrow, 0800hrs.  I have a meeting tomorrow I must attend, not that I want to get out of it either, with Praetor Aedile sometime during the day tomorrow, and then the twins belated birthday cross leaving party tomorrow night, so a couple of anti-intoxidant hypos might be useful as there will be real alcohol around, and I'm not going to be putting the damper on a good party!" Ruth answered smiling.

"I don't envision any injuries either other than cramp and severe cases of numb butt. Mjolnir is 21 meters long however... so should be able to stretch our legs somewhat."

[Richard James Litt]

[Innominatum Outpost • Conference Room 2]

Richard was sitted in his spot just listening carefully and taking mental notes from everything that was being said in the meeting. When the Captain asked him about the flight he seemed to think a little bit.

[As: CPO Lena Maghouin - Chief of Outpost Security|Lt. Taray - Chief of Security (Challenger)|Dr. Maggie York|Ruth]

The Captain chuckled."Certainly side arms for myself and everyone travelling with me,  you're right not much throwing room! I haven't flown for a while but I believe that's still common 'law' for most of Federation air space.  Dradis? Mr. Litt can you confirm or deny this, esp. Mr. Litt as we'll be sharing the pilot duties on this trip?" Ruth asked.

"Ma'am, as far as I know it is ok to do that." He said appearing to be certain in that.

A few moments later it looked like the meeting was almost over and they were doing only the final arrangements.

"Dr. Chang, may I borrow you a second?!  And Mr. Walding, Mr. Litt... just taking the opportunity in our 5 minute break between meetings to organise a few things!  Grab a drink and join me up here!"

"Aye sir." He answered and opted not to grad a drink in that moment because he was drinking earlier. Then, he approached the Captain just to hear what she had to say and agreeing about take shifts to fly with her.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[Innominatum Outpost - Conference Room 2]

[Conference Room 2 - Innominatum Outpost]

"I'll let you get settled for the other meeting Lahr.  Thank you.  Alternatively you can give your information to Mr. Sukal since I believe Mr. Lek has already given me his update and you can go and liaise your special task with your co-operative!  I'll be sure to get a report of all updates sent to your PADDs" she said with a smile.  She knew that if he could get out of it, Lahr would prefer not to sit in yet another meeting so she gave him the wiggle room to get out of it!

She caught the glance at Sven.  "Were you introduced PO2 Shran'Lahr ch'Verret, Lt. Sven 'Stryker' Aune.  He'll be with us and he has the clearance.  Oh I think Lek wanted to check out the Delta Flyer.  Make sure you get the pilot seat adjusted to my height!" she said with a wink, It wasn't the best of ways to get the drugs to Lek and Lahr but it was 'a' way.

Lahr waited to be dismissed; but even as the Captain did so - in her atypical way she gave him additional orders and alternatives to his orders.   'So did she want him at the meeting, yes or no?' the Andorian puzzled.

Then she further confused him by delaying his dismissal further to introduce him to the new Security officer, Lt Aune.  Lahr looked over to the man named and nodded to the large human. "Sir." he acknowledged the introduction.

Then he turned back to the Captain to respond to her seat adjustment request.  The wink giving him pause.  Normally he would delegate the task now but her wink, which he hoped no one else saw, suggested that it had something to do with his 'special assignment'.

"I'll see the the seat adjustment personally, after speaking with Commander Sukal, ma'am... assuming I am dismissed..?"

Following his dismissal, Lahr went over to where the Lt Commander was preparing for the next meeting in Conference Room 1.

"Sir, the Captain suggested I update you on my assignment's progress so that I can resume my special assignment with Lieutenant Lek.  If I may, I would like to draft it into a written brief and sent it to you encrypted - to practice the encryption process. I can have it to you within 10 minutes."  He suggested this because he didn't want to chance being overheard talking about the drug-ring.

After getting permission to do this from the XO, Lahr went to find Lek.

"Captain gave us one more task to do before we are clear to ditch the Think Tank meeting.  Let's head to the Challenger shuttlebay."

[USS Challenger -  Shuttle Bay 1]

"Ah.. there she is.  The Mjolnir.  Captain asked me to adjust the height of her seat." As he said this he gave Lek a look that suggested he was meaning more than he was saying.  "She asked you to give the ship a check over.  You do that while I go adjust her seat."

[Sukal]

"Sir, the Captain suggested I update you on my assignment's progress so that I can resume my special assignment with Lieutenant Lek.  If I may, I would like to draft it into a written brief and sent it to you encrypted - to practice the encryption process. I can have it to you within 10 minutes."  He suggested this because he didn't want to chance being overheard talking about the drug-ring.

"Of course, Mr. ch'Verret," Sukal answered with a slight nod.  "Carry on," he added before turning his attention back to his own notes about the Think Tank meeting they were suppose to have very shortly.  He had been so busy with the Conference preparations that there had been rather less time to devote to dealing with Leyton than he would have normally have liked.  Still, he had been able to work out a couple of things.

One of the things he had come to the conclusion on was the new Trailblazer-class was simply an overpowered version of the Excelsior-class.  She was good for what she could do, and had proven herself worthy in combat thanks to the brilliance of her Chief Engineer and the tactics the himself and the Captain had used to this point.  However, a single starship was simply not equipped to deal with Leyton's rebels alone.  No matter what they came up with, or how much they upgraded the CHALLENGER - she just was not suited for intense combat.  That left a couple of things in Sukal's mind a bit more clear.  Going after Leyton either had to be a stealth mission which could relatively be assured of slipping past the enemy's defenses in order to get to the target, or CHALLENGER needed a small task force in order to fully penetrate Leyton's base - wherever it was.

The second thing Sukal had noted was where the REDAV had taken off to in the escape when they had cornered her during their engagement with the BISMARK.  The First Officer could not really believe that Leyton would go directly to his base of operations while being pursued, but he did believe the man would go nearby in order to go to the next location.  The five warp trails suggested this secrecy was absolutely imperative to be kept in the area they had arrived in after discovering the abandoned REDAV.  Based on such logic - Sukal believed the base was available to Leyton via high warp from where the five ships had started from.  As such, it meant he was close to being discovered.

Interrogating the various Cadets which had fallen under suspicion had been another time consuming task - one which he had performed with Lieutenant Taray.  Of the Cadets, none of them were people he could trust.  Indeed, one of them was clearly suspected of murder and sabotage, and the other was suspected of hurting Admiral d'Arth.  Another had been suspected of deliberately tampering with the Navigation system in order to slow down the CHALLENGER's pursuit of the REDAV.  During the interrogation process of each one - Sukal had not been able to read a single thought or emotion from any of them.  Not a single one, and that severely worried the Vulcan/Betazoid officer.  There were those who could block him - various species whose minds were simply different or more powerful than his own, and those who had training to block out such telepathic and empathic readings.  None of the three Cadets were of species capable of preventing such probes, and none of them should have had the training to stop him.  Indeed, that had been the other problem he had encountered.  If there had been a resistance or a way to block him; Sukal would have at least sensed such, but this had not been the case.  They were not actively blocking him.

They simply didn't register.

Which had led Sukal to one other possibility - strange as it sounded, and it was something he needed to speak with the Think Tank about.  If Sukal could not read them, and they were not actively blocking his probes - then no matter how strange it sounded to him - there could really only be one explanation:  androids.  As such, he no longer had the three confined to quarters, but had Lieutenant Taray move them directly to high level security cells.

He hoped the drug operation worked, but he wasn't holding out much hope for it as a way of getting to Leyton.  At best, he saw it interfering with Leyton's work, but if it led them to the rogue Admiral - then so much the better.  He just hoped it wouldn't end up scaring Lahr and Lek in the course of their new assignment.  His personal hope was the Conference going well enough to where the various factions were able to come to an agreement, and help Starfleet track down Leyton's base of operations.  It was, to be sure, nearly as long of a shot as the drug ring operation, but he could hope.