S3:E5: Eliminating Shadows

[Kali Reyes]

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

While many Starfleet personnel cherished their Leaves, and any downtime that let them wear civilian garb, Nathan was much more comfortable in uniform. Even if this new one he had been given was a different color than he was used to. It was a mild fascination with the 'Human Condition' that had prompted him to pick a new career in counseling when he followed Kali across the cosmos to Memory Alpha. He had to do something while she was in class, and he did not much feel like rehashing the tactical courses he had taken in his younger years.

The tiniest of smirks pulled at the corner of his mouth as he heard Kali ribbing him as they rode the lift to find their new superiors. "You should be thankful Ms. Reyes. You have someone on your side within Medical now," he teased back. Someone who would at least try to head off any medications that would have an adverse reaction for the woman by his side. Nathan's voice softened as he gently reassured Kali, "I told you. I'm still me, even if my shirt's a different color. I'm not going to psychoanalyze you." ... Any more than he already did, in any case.

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

Her lips pursed in consideration. She hadn't even considered an ally from Medical. Kali's aversion to therapists could fill out an entire page in her dossier. Erratic mood swings brought on by Vulcan/Human genetics, sensitivity to most medications, and a destructive attitude to both machine and aliens alike would put grey hairs on any medical professional. Two counselors have even transferred off the Discovery while she was stationed there.

Still, she couldn't help but keep tabs on him from the corner of her vision. They could've taught him all sorts of psychological tricks to get her to do a mental backflip. And how sneaky they were - for they have deployed her greatest weakness: handsome men. It used to be alcohol, but since she was now a year sober, one sin had to replace the other. Clearly.

"I'm supposed to report to uh..." Kali glanced at her PADD. The interface was an utter mess. Every other tab seemed to be a maintenance schematic for the ship, including a plasma upgrade conduit that was still in progress that she was itching to get her hands on. Finally, she swooshed to the correct tab. "Lt. Lek. He sounds like an Andorian cabbage."

[Nathan Ryder]

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

"I'm supposed to report to uh..." Kali glanced at her PADD. The interface was an utter mess. Every other tab seemed to be a maintenance schematic for the ship, including a plasma upgrade conduit that was still in progress that she was itching to get her hands on. Finally, she swooshed to the correct tab. "Lt. Lek. He sounds like an Andorian cabbage."

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

Sharp eyes did not miss the side-long glance Kali shot his way, and he sighed softly. As she flicked through her PADD, he lifted one hand and let it fall gently on her shoulder. With a firm squeeze, Nathan said her full name once to get her attention. "Kaliandra. I know you, and we've already had this conversation. Still, I will say it as many times as I need to; I am not going to use any tricks on you." She would know him well enough to know he was not going to let this go that easily. A downfall of his infinite patience, perhaps.

"And your superior is not a cabbage," he added with an amused grin. At least he did not think they were. Nathan certainly hoped that the Fleet had not found a race of sentient cabbages, or at least had not hired them for engineering. Cabbages cannot hold tools.

[Kali Reyes]

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

Sharp eyes did not miss the side-long glance Kali shot his way, and he sighed softly. As she flicked through her PADD, he lifted one hand and let it fall gently on her shoulder. With a firm squeeze, Nathan said her full name once to get her attention. "Kaliandra. I know you, and we've already had this conversation. Still, I will say it as many times as I need to; I am not going to use any tricks on you." She would know him well enough to know he was not going to let this go that easily. A downfall of his infinite patience, perhaps.

"And your superior is not a cabbage," he added with an amused grin. At least he did not think they were. Nathan certainly hoped that the Fleet had not found a race of sentient cabbages, or at least had not hired them for engineering. Cabbages cannot hold tools.

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

A jolt of electricity shot up her spine like a live conduit. If she was a cartoon character she would most likely have her curls shot up on end. Because it slowly sunk in that he just said her full name. Out loud. "Ack!" she exclaimed in dramatic dismay. Her head swished around almost comically. The jitters borne from anxiousness with her new dream job and Nathan's calm demeanor was just too much.

"No one heard that! Do these cameras have audio?" Not even Starfleet had access to that name! She gestured frantically at him with her PADD. "Let me check! Quick, help me up so I can reach it-" Her rambling stuttered to a halt when she raised her eyes to the ceiling. "Is that panel loose? Oh. My. God."

What if the Andorian cabbage blamed her for this? Oh no, she thought lucidly. I've snapped.

[Olivia Briggs]

[Briefing Room - Deck 1 - USS Challenger]

When the door opened and Liv was greeted by Commander Sukal, recognising him from the crew manifest, Liv smiled politely as she replied. " Thank you, Commander and I'm sure she will" she replied, before entering. Taking a moment to acknowledge those present, including her husband. As usual he got the biggest smile of them all and it was reassuring in a way to have him here, alongside her. Plus it was something to tease him about later in private.

However her attention quickly turned towards Ruth, when the Captain acknowledged her and asked about the cocktail, still clutched securely in Liv's right hand. " It sure is although the virgin version for now".

Liv then acknowledged the officer that Ruth then referred to as a possible new customer in regards to the Nebula's and smiled as Ruth suggested that he get acquainted with her. Trying not to grin as Ruth then complimented her about being an expert, before teasing about how Kyle could lock him in the Brig, if Lahr got on the wrong side of her.

" I'm sure you won't but, I'm happy to make more if and when needed".

The new Medical officer then took her place at the table as Ruth then spoke to Maggie, before she got the briefing underway. Listening to each of the five points that were mentioned, appreciating the welcome and was happy to hear about the well deserved promotion, during what could have only been an awful situation to be in. Then as the briefing became more serious, Liv was glad to have had some background information of what the Challenger had been through since she was last here. It was a stark reminder of the more unpleasant side of being with the Fleet, however that wouldn't deter her as this is where her and Kyle belonged.

Still she would do everything she could to help her new family and as she received the document on the PADD, looked over it, trying to decipher the communication. Picking out words and what was obvious to her, before acknowledging Ruth in regards to what she needed to know from Maggie about the brainwashing device and the notes left by an old friend.

It was lot to take in, but she would ensure, that she would absorb and take in all of the information, as she gave Lek, her attention regarding his report.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger-A - Deck One - Briefing Room]

Lahr looked over the number code that the Captain said had been sent to her.  It certainly looked like the remote access coding for both a ship - mostly it's sensors and defenses given the SEN and DEF prefixes.  Lahr glanced to Kyle and the new doctor, Olivia... should he mention his interpretation of this aloud? Could these newcomers be trusted? Were they the actual Kyle Briggs and his wife? Or were they followers of Leyton.  'Roozh!'  He hated feeling so paranoid.  He was acting like a Romulan, by the Ice!  Well, screw that!

"Ma'am.  I might have a suggestion on what that code might be.  Remote override authorization for a ship... their sensors and hopefully even their defenses.  'SEN' and 'DEF'.  It makes sense.  Questions is:  for what ship or station?  And can you trust the source?"

[Briefing Room - USS Challenger]

"Last but most intriguing and definitely not least... Just before I came to the Briefing Room I received a communication.  No indication of whom it was from, so that's the first thing I want checked.  Secondly, what do you make of this?"  Ruth projected the two lines of the message onto the blank wall of the room.

Sen:  09NO13TY19EL
Def:  05JA09S80ON

A little later Lek gave his report.

[Briefing Room - USS Challenger]

Lek only half listened to the new people joining the crew. Between the station and the ship, new people were in and out constantly and he figured unless someone stayed around for at least six months, there simply wasn't a point in trying to get to know the 'free radicals' that floated around as common as hydrogen atoms in the universe. Lek did listen to the promotion of the flight ensign, but since he hadn't made it to the six month mile stone, he dismissed him as well.

He might be one of the least sociable members of the crew, but that was a choice, not because he was oblivious to others. He saw Lahr's expression and wondered what had bent him out of shape. He'd try to talk to him after the meeting to find out. The captain laid out what she had to say and Lek waited until she'd finished before he made his report, so he could get it out of the way early.

"Ma'am. As I'd checked out your shuttle just before your departure, the saboteur had only a very small window of opportunity to doctor your vehicle. Given the expertise the assassin displayed in her actions, it is reasonable to assume the same individual was responsible for leaving you stranded. I have personally inspected the Mjolnir and she is fully operational again. The inspections of, and level one diagnostics on, the other Delta Flyers will take another forty-eight hours."

Lek paused to let that sink in before he continued.

"The Challenger herself is also fully operational with the plasma conduit upgrade project now fifty-seven percent completed. All major systems are now fully capable of handling the power flow from both warp cores at the same time. Secondary systems are now the priority of work for the project.

"Finally, the special project you assigned to me and Petty Officer ch'Verret. We didn't have a lot of time to devote to our objective besides announcing our presence. However, given how fast Hecate's goons responded to even the suggestion of competition tells me her organization has completely infiltrated Innominatum station to the point that it jeopardizes the operational security of the station. I believe nothing classified should be discussed on the station and that the station is too compromised to be used for any further conferences.

"In order to get a more in depth understanding of Hecate's operations, Lahr and myself would have to devote substantial time to this project and I assess the threat to anyone assigned to the project as high. Subject to your questions, this concludes my report."

"I can vouch for Lek's threat level.  Apparently, Hecate's goon passed on my name or description on to his higher ups - a pair of Klingons - and they paid me a little visit.  The woman in particular liked to make her points quite physical.   It might have ended badly but for Lt Aune misunderstanding your orders and arriving on scene to arrest me.  You can tell him thanks for that and I'll be complaining if it shows on my permanent record."  Lahr flashed the Captain a smile to show he was just joking.

"The upside to being stuck in a jail cell overnight with a not so bright Klingon is that if you are someone like me .. you can convince them you are looking for a way out of the Fleet and open to new opportunities in drug cartel.  The male, Drek, talked.. I got a bit more info on Hecate and her ship.  The Tal'Beth is a Romulan vessel and if Drek is to be believed Hecate has influence with what remains of the Tal'Shiar and she'll likely be coming to Innominatum to free her Klingon underlings.   No so sure if I buy into that but Drek believes.   He was willing to get me an introduction but I guess when his partner B'Etalla heard about it... she didn't like the plan and nixed it - at knife point."   Shanking him was a sure sign she didn't want the Andorian joining up with Hecate.

"If you are wanting me to infiltrate further Drek is the way to go... but I don't see any way of swaying B'Etalla.   And if she sees light of day, I have no doubt that she'll get a message to Hecate and warn her against me.  After the last incident, I'm sure Lt Aune has her locked up tight but she'll be headed to some medium-security prison where she could easily get a message out, if she hasn't already via her public defender if he's in Hecate's pocket."

Lahr glanced about the table finally settling on the Captain.  "One thing though, if I do go in further undercover... I have to do it alone.. I only managed to sway the Klingon by really playing up how unhappy I was being partnered with 'the Ferengi' who kept the lion's share of the profits for himself.  Drek would never buy both of us wanting in with Hecate."

[Ruth Sigurdsdottir]

[OOC: I have skipped quoting everything or you'll be reading for hours!]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger-A - Deck One - Briefing Room]

Lahr looked over the number code that the Captain said had been sent to her.  It certainly looked like the remote access coding for both a ship - mostly it's sensors and defenses given the SEN and DEF prefixes.  Lahr glanced to Kyle and the new doctor, Olivia... should he mention his interpretation of this aloud? Could these newcomers be trusted? Were they the actual Kyle Briggs and his wife? Or were they followers of Leyton.  'Roozh!'  He hated feeling so paranoid.  He was acting like a Romulan, by the Ice!  Well, screw that!

"Ma'am.  I might have a suggestion on what that code might be.  Remote override authorization for a ship... their sensors and hopefully even their defenses.  'SEN' and 'DEF'.  It makes sense.  Questions is:  for what ship or station?  And can you trust the source?"

A little later Lek gave his report.

"I can vouch for Lek's threat level.  Apparently, Hecate's goon passed on my name or description on to his higher ups - a pair of Klingons - and they paid me a little visit.  The woman in particular liked to make her points quite physical.   It might have ended badly but for Lt Aune misunderstanding your orders and arriving on scene to arrest me.  You can tell him thanks for that and I'll be complaining if it shows on my permanent record."  Lahr flashed the Captain a smile to show he was just joking.

"The upside to being stuck in a jail cell overnight with a not so bright Klingon is that if you are someone like me .. you can convince them you are looking for a way out of the Fleet and open to new opportunities in drug cartel.  The male, Drek, talked.. I got a bit more info on Hecate and her ship.  The Tal'Beth is a Romulan vessel and if Drek is to be believed Hecate has influence with what remains of the Tal'Shiar and she'll likely be coming to Innominatum to free her Klingon underlings.   No so sure if I buy into that but Drek believes.   He was willing to get me an introduction but I guess when his partner B'Etalla heard about it... she didn't like the plan and nixed it - at knife point."   Shanking him was a sure sign she didn't want the Andorian joining up with Hecate.

"If you are wanting me to infiltrate further Drek is the way to go... but I don't see any way of swaying B'Etalla.   And if she sees light of day, I have no doubt that she'll get a message to Hecate and warn her against me.  After the last incident, I'm sure Lt Aune has her locked up tight but she'll be headed to some medium-security prison where she could easily get a message out, if she hasn't already via her public defender if he's in Hecate's pocket."

Lahr glanced about the table finally settling on the Captain.  "One thing though, if I do go in further undercover... I have to do it alone.. I only managed to sway the Klingon by really playing up how unhappy I was being partnered with 'the Ferengi' who kept the lion's share of the profits for himself.  Drek would never buy both of us wanting in with Hecate."

[Briefing Room - USS Challenger]

Ruth's good mood was hard to shake as most people gave their reports.  She savoured the Nebula, remarking, "Well, I am on duty so probably just as well! I draw attention to it because I thought those in undercover roles might be able to tempt anyone with them... you new 'friends' the Klingons for example, Mr. Lahr...get people to talk, you know 'Here, try this cocktail...'... or any Klingons for that matter!" she said giving Lek a quick but significant look and smile.

"Mr. Lek, thank you for your report I'm happy that we're fully operational, and your insight about Ms. Amoreen... that is likely.  Pending looking at security footage to confirm that seems likely.  If you have nothing to add about the code, as soon as Mr. Sukal has briefed us on what we're doing, you may go and find your new Petty Officer and get cracking the whip!  No toothbrush duties please, she's a bone fide Engineer!" she grinned.

Turning to Lahr she addressed his 2 points, noting that he was wincing when sitting, she made a mental note to nudge Maggie and Liv to see that he was patched up properly after the meeting, as she was pretty sure that the Klingons had done a number on him.

"As it happens I got a note in my messages... the ones I've read so far, from Lt. Aune, he said to thank you all for your cooperation, and he ... I quote 'Hope your Andorian wasn't too purple'... whatever that meant, and that '...I have never seen someone stick to their job quite so diligently.'  So I think, knowing Sven, you impressed him!"

Ruth paused taking a quick swig of the Nebula, revelling in its fruitiness.

"As for going undercover solo... that's something you might want to discuss with me in more depth after the meeting, and possibly with Lt. Briggs and Lt. Taray, possibly we could fit you up with a wire or some better security and work out something to keep you safe.  On the personal protection side of things I don't like putting my crew into situations like that, on an intel side of things... well it would be useful.  We'll talk about this later."

The Captain's attention was drawn back to the code.

"THANK YOU!!" she exclaimed.  "Sensors and Defence... yes but for what.  I did get Leyton and Jason - if you read the letters in the first set backwards it reads Leyton, and forward in the second that's Jason... not sure if that's relevant in any way.  And I have no clue what the numbers are unless they are as you say sensors and defence code overrides... As for where they came from, can we verify the source... that's your job Mr. ch'Verret! Well yours and the rest of the Operations Department, see if you can reverse track the message or anything."

"Mr. Sukal, any thoughts on this and would you like to give us our sub-mission so we can prepare ourselves before we get there." Ruth smiled at her XO and sat again giving him the floor.

[Sukal]

Briefing Room

Sukal listened to the reports as they came in from the various individuals, and focused on what it all boiled down to.  In the end, he could not agree with the assumption that Amoreen had been part of the MJORNIR's sabotage.  Something about that just seemed off, but he could see why such might be a possibility.  He noticed how Lahr had sat back down a bit gingerly, and knew that while there were no wounds to be seen - the Andorian had taken some abuse from the Klingons.  Considering he had reported that they had made their points rather physical - he could only imagine the damage done to him.  Wasn't it bad enough what the Andorian had gone through already?  Even before he had returned to Starfleet - Lahr had been skittish about away missions.  To have him going undercover and being abused did not set well with the First Officer.

When the codes had been brought up; Sukal focused his attention on the sequences and the comments from both Lahr and the Captain.

"I believe they are indeed codes," Sukal started.  "I believe Mr. ch'Verret is correct in assuming they belong to the sensors and defenses of a target, but my guess is it is directly linked to our mission at hand.  I find the timing of it being sent to the Captain too much of a coincidence to ignore.  These codes likely are capable of shutting down the defenses and sensors of the station we are about to investigate.  Someone from Leyton's organization is attempting to help us.  Who?  That is the question.  I have a theory, but I will keep that to myself for the moment.  We will attempt to reverse the message, and see if we can figure it out.  Honestly, I do not hold out much hope for that.  This does not come from any lack of ability on our part, but rather how much trouble someone in Leyton's organization would go to in order to keep themselves anonymous.  For if we can find out - then Leyton can as well, and that would put this person in danger.  Still, we must make the attempt.  Perhaps there is more hidden within which can be of use."

The First Officer took in the gaze of those seated around.  "I find it disturbing that the outpost has been infiltrated so deeply that we are at risk.  I do not like the feel of that in the slightest, but the reports suggest this is the case.  If so, we must weed it out as quickly as possible.  I know that doing so will upset Hecate's organization, but I would rather not let her have such power over a station the crew fought to capture at great cost.  It would also go a long way to stabilizing the region - which is a huge necessity.  Therefore, I suggest we lure Hecate into action prematurely.  If she does indeed have a Romulan ship at her command, and it likely has a cloak - then that would explain the unknown energy surge we had when the USS REDAV was destroyed.  We were rather focused on the disaster we had been led into, but I suggest that Hecate has already been monitoring us.  In fact, I would even venture to say she is pursuing us in the hopes of catching us off guard.  She is likely not in a full warbird, or she would have already struck.  Thus, she is waiting for a better chance to strike.  As such, I suggest we go to Yellow Alert as soon as possible, and remain at such until further notice."  The idea of a cloaked Romulan ship following them made Sukal rather tense.  "More importantly, we cannot allow her to know where we are going.  If she works for Leyton - she will let the facility we are about to investigate know of our impending arrival.  That simply cannot be allowed to happen."

He paused briefly before continuing, "As for our assignment.  We are on our way to a hidden facility rumored to contain a massive research set of labs - including an advanced cybernetics lab.  The information was given to me by Ambassador Alyssa Winslow in her own attempt to help us capture Leyton.  According to her, the station is located in the center of the Setisar Nebula, and is avoided due to rumors of a massive nuclear disaster which contaminated the area.  The rumor, she believes, was something which actually occurred, but has not been a problem for several years.  It is my hope that we can find something here which will help us start really eliminating the shadows that have plagued us for far too long.  Such a facility could hold the clues to many of the mysteries we have been investigating.  If these are indeed codes, we could actually slip in, and deal with this threat - which could considerably weaken Leyton's Rebels."

"Lieutenant Briggs, if you can come up with an idea to lure Hecate's ship into combat after the briefing - then I say we take her out here and now.  The sooner she is dealt with - the better.  I believe Mr. Lek and Mr. ch'Verret have gotten all they are going to on this matter without a great deal more risk to Mr. ch'Verret.  Hecate is no fool.  She isn't going to attack the outpost or attempt a rescue of the Klingons, because she already knows the outpost is still in a high state of alert after the assassination, and there is still the USS JANARAN on station there.  No, she is coming after us, and I would rather turn the tables on her while we have the chance," Sukal added with most of his attention on Kyle and his Captain.

[Nathan Ryder]

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

A jolt of electricity shot up her spine like a live conduit. If she was a cartoon character she would most likely have her curls shot up on end. Because it slowly sunk in that he just said her full name. Out loud. "Ack!" she exclaimed in dramatic dismay. Her head swished around almost comically. The jitters borne from anxiousness with her new dream job and Nathan's calm demeanor was just too much.

"No one heard that! Do these cameras have audio?" Not even Starfleet had access to that name! She gestured frantically at him with her PADD. "Let me check! Quick, help me up so I can reach it-" Her rambling stuttered to a halt when she raised her eyes to the ceiling. "Is that panel loose? Oh. My. God."

What if the Andorian cabbage blamed her for this? Oh no, she thought lucidly. I've snapped.

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

Well. That was certainly a different reaction to the last time he had said her full name. At least she was panicking about something other than his new role now? Nathan once again sighed and shook his head much more slowly than she did. Instead of hefting her upwards toward whatever she was trying to reach, Nathan wrapped his arm around her shoulders comfortingly.

"Breathe, Kal'. Don't make me reprogram your replicator access to Decaf Only," he teased. An empty threat, to be sure, but one that was likely to get her attention. She was far too high strung at the moment.  A glance at the Turbolift's control panel showed they were almost to their destination. "Focus on the job at hand, Engineer. You can panic after shift's done, and I'll make you dinner to make up for it."

[Lek]

[OOC: I have skipped quoting everything or you'll be reading for hours!]

[Briefing Room - USS Challenger]

Ruth's good mood was hard to shake as most people gave their reports.  She savoured the Nebula, remarking, "Well, I am on duty so probably just as well! I draw attention to it because I thought those in undercover roles might be able to tempt anyone with them... you new 'friends' the Klingons for example, Mr. Lahr...get people to talk, you know 'Here, try this cocktail...'... or any Klingons for that matter!" she said giving Lek a quick but significant look and smile.

"Mr. Lek, thank you for your report I'm happy that we're fully operational, and your insight about Ms. Amoreen... that is likely.  Pending looking at security footage to confirm that seems likely.  If you have nothing to add about the code, as soon as Mr. Sukal has briefed us on what we're doing, you may go and find your new Petty Officer and get cracking the whip!  No toothbrush duties please, she's a bone fide Engineer!" she grinned.

Turning to Lahr she addressed his 2 points, noting that he was wincing when sitting, she made a mental note to nudge Maggie and Liv to see that he was patched up properly after the meeting, as she was pretty sure that the Klingons had done a number on him.

"As it happens I got a note in my messages... the ones I've read so far, from Lt. Aune, he said to thank you all for your cooperation, and he ... I quote 'Hope your Andorian wasn't too purple'... whatever that meant, and that '...I have never seen someone stick to their job quite so diligently.'  So I think, knowing Sven, you impressed him!"

Ruth paused taking a quick swig of the Nebula, revelling in its fruitiness.

"As for going undercover solo... that's something you might want to discuss with me in more depth after the meeting, and possibly with Lt. Briggs and Lt. Taray, possibly we could fit you up with a wire or some better security and work out something to keep you safe.  On the personal protection side of things I don't like putting my crew into situations like that, on an intel side of things... well it would be useful.  We'll talk about this later."

The Captain's attention was drawn back to the code.

"THANK YOU!!" she exclaimed.  "Sensors and Defence... yes but for what.  I did get Leyton and Jason - if you read the letters in the first set backwards it reads Leyton, and forward in the second that's Jason... not sure if that's relevant in any way.  And I have no clue what the numbers are unless they are as you say sensors and defence code overrides... As for where they came from, can we verify the source... that's your job Mr. ch'Verret! Well yours and the rest of the Operations Department, see if you can reverse track the message or anything."

"Mr. Sukal, any thoughts on this and would you like to give us our sub-mission so we can prepare ourselves before we get there." Ruth smiled at her XO and sat again giving him the floor.

[Briefing Room - USS Challenger]

Lek listened to Lahr's addendum and winced to hear he'd thumped so hard during his part of the undercover operation. The news of a new engineer was of mixed value to Lek, if competent as the captain implied, great, otherwise, if scrubbing the hull wasn't an option, he could give them a piece of chalk and a hammer and have them check the armor got soft spots.

"Sounds like you have the code cracked, but it could easily be bait to trap us instead. Leyton seems to be entirely too clever when it comes to misdirection and tricks."

Lek wouldn't comment on the new engineer until he knew they knew how to find the business end of a spanner or not.

[Kali Reyes]

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

Well. That was certainly a different reaction to the last time he had said her full name. At least she was panicking about something other than his new role now? Nathan once again sighed and shook his head much more slowly than she did. Instead of hefting her upwards toward whatever she was trying to reach, Nathan wrapped his arm around her shoulders comfortingly.

"Breathe, Kal'. Don't make me reprogram your replicator access to Decaf Only," he teased. An empty threat, to be sure, but one that was likely to get her attention. She was far too high strung at the moment.  A glance at the Turbolift's control panel showed they were almost to their destination. "Focus on the job at hand, Engineer. You can panic after shift's done, and I'll make you dinner to make up for it."

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]

She entirely blamed Starfleet for her sudden bout of anxiety. First they drafted her into Operations and now her excitement going back to Engineering coupled with a new ship made her feel like she was a nameless crewman again. But Nathan's threat of decaf brought her antsy streak grind to a halt and she lowered her hands from her face when he comforted her with his arm.

The turbolift finally shuddered to a halt.

"Dirty pool, old man," she said, pouting. The doors swished open, revealing the corridor where her superior supposedly resided. She stepped backwards out of the lift and pointed at him in mock warning. If she had to go in and disable all replicators of that decaf abomination it was only a matter of when. "But I still want dinner."

[Zavrol Gohun]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger-A - Deck One - Briefing room]

Lahr looked up as the first of the others began to arrive, beginning with the Flight officer.  The Andorian gave a lazy nod back as he lounged in his chair.  "Sir." he greeted, then added in answer to the man's question.  "A bit sore... had trouble sleepin' last night."  The cots in the brig were not very comfortable - not in the least. "You?"

A moment later the Captain and First Officer entered.  Subconsciously Lahr straightened his posture somewhat even though he was trying to maintain character.

"As well as can be expected, sir." Lahr offered another lazy nod towards the Vulcan and one to the Captain along with a wink and cocky smile.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NPC Lt Taray
[USS Challenger-A - Deck One - Bridge]

Taray felt rather important being asked to assume the 'big chair' while the Captain and XO went to deal with the briefing.  However since security couldn't be unrepresented in the meeting - Taray knew she needed to send an underling in her place.  She missed having her Petty officers like Cleroux or tr'Lhoell to sit on these things for her.   She had planned to send Lt Briggs in her place - but as he hadn't reported in yet, that option was off the table.   Who else was on the Captain's trusted list?  Oh!

"Taray to Gohun.  Report to briefing room 1. Explain that you will be taking notes for me. You'll need to knock.  The room is locked via biometrics. Not sure if Lahr added you to that list.  If not get him to do so, from now on consider yourself my assistant.  Taray out."

Realizing the investigation was in good hands Crewman Gohun deletes all his files on it and decides that work off duty is not really worth it.
With that Gohum heads to the briefing room and knocks really hard. Realizing that he was on the wrong end of the ship he walks back tot he correct briefing room with a pencil paper and clipboard ready to take notes and then knocks on the door.

[Kyle Briggs]

Briefing Room

"Lieutenant Briggs, if you can come up with an idea to lure Hecate's ship into combat after the briefing - then I say we take her out here and now.  The sooner she is dealt with - the better.  I believe Mr. Lek and Mr. ch'Verret have gotten all they are going to on this matter without a great deal more risk to Mr. ch'Verret.  Hecate is no fool.  She isn't going to attack the outpost or attempt a rescue of the Klingons, because she already knows the outpost is still in a high state of alert after the assassination, and there is still the USS JANARAN on station there.  No, she is coming after us, and I would rather turn the tables on her while we have the chance," Sukal added with most of his attention on Kyle and his Captain.

Kyle lifted his head from the PADD he was reading we heard his name. He may have looked like he wasn't paying attention to the First Officer but he had indeed heard every word he'd said. What he had been doing, ever since the Andorian suggested it, was attempting to bypass records and logs to see if these were indeed ship codes for anything they had on record. Unfortunately, he no longer had the access he once had as a CO.

"Got it, Commander. I'll have something for you shortly after we break up here." Kyle promised. It had been a while since he'd done Security work but it was like riding a bike. You never forgot it.

[ShranLahr ch'Verret]

PO2 ShranLahr ch'Verret
[USS Challenger-A - Deck One - Briefing room]

[Briefing Room - USS Challenger]
Turning to Lahr she addressed his 2 points, noting that he was wincing when sitting, she made a mental note to nudge Maggie and Liv to see that he was patched up properly after the meeting, as she was pretty sure that the Klingons had done a number on him.

"As it happens I got a note in my messages... the ones I've read so far, from Lt. Aune, he said to thank you all for your cooperation, and he ... I quote 'Hope your Andorian wasn't too purple'... whatever that meant, and that '...I have never seen someone stick to their job quite so diligently.'  So I think, knowing Sven, you impressed him!"

Ruth paused taking a quick swig of the Nebula, revelling in its fruitiness.

"As for going undercover solo... that's something you might want to discuss with me in more depth after the meeting, and possibly with Lt. Briggs and Lt. Taray, possibly we could fit you up with a wire or some better security and work out something to keep you safe.  On the personal protection side of things I don't like putting my crew into situations like that, on an intel side of things... well it would be useful.  We'll talk about this later."

The Captain's attention was drawn back to the code.

"THANK YOU!!" she exclaimed.  "Sensors and Defence... yes but for what.  I did get Leyton and Jason - if you read the letters in the first set backwards it reads Leyton, and forward in the second that's Jason... not sure if that's relevant in any way.  And I have no clue what the numbers are unless they are as you say sensors and defence code overrides... As for where they came from, can we verify the source... that's your job Mr. ch'Verret! Well yours and the rest of the Operations Department, see if you can reverse track the message or anything."

Lahr's antenna wriggled about happily, despite the Andorian's laid-back demeanor, after hearing the Captain's words of recognition from Lieutenant Aune.  He just hoped the human hulk hadn't tipped the Captain off as to how serious his injuries had been nor how close.

A little later after he offered up his idea about the codes, Lahr was pleased again when the others seemed to agree with him.  That it could be codes for this station that they were being sent to was possible.   It was disturbing how the codes were sent not long after the Captain received the ships new orders..  I suggested highly that there was Leyton informant at HQ.

Realizing the investigation was in good hands Crewman Gohun deletes all his files on it and decides that work off duty is not really worth it.
With that Gohum heads to the briefing room and knocks really hard. Realizing that he was on the wrong end of the ship he walks back tot he correct briefing room with a pencil paper and clipboard ready to take notes and then knocks on the door.

Hearing the knock at the door at the same time that door chimed a presence outside in the corridor once more, Lahr as the lowest ranked individual present got up from the table once more and approached the door.   Rather than open it this time, Lahr used the wall panel to access the security camera outside the room and noted Crewman Gohun standing at the door with a pencil and clipboard.

"Was anyone expecting Crewman Gohun from Security?" he asked the room before answering the door.

"Crewman, the Captain and senior staff are in an important meeting.  What is it you want?" 

[Olivia Briggs]

[Briefing Room - Challenger]

Liv had remained attentive as further reports were given, including what Ruth had said in regards to the potential usefulness of her cocktail skills. Taking note of what was said,including the possible meaning behind the communication that had been received. She herself had picked up on the names and wondered about its usefulness. However she was also acutely aware of how new she was to this particular situation, yet wasn't going to let that get in the way of helping to stop Leyton. Even if she had to bring her old skills into play, then so be it.

Of course it would mean some more background reading, but she was willing to ensure that she knew as much as possible. This would add to what she would learn from Maggie, but that's what being in Starfleet meant, especially bringing down someone who could cause so much pain and misery. Still listening as the particulars of their next assignment were given and tasks handed out, including how her husband would play a part. Looking towards Kyle briefly as he responded, seeing the fire in his eyes at getting to grips with this particular request.

They had definitely made the right decision to return as others gave their input and answered those who had directed comments to them. Although there was a slight pang of sympathy when it became apparent that a Security crewman was waiting outside. For now she continued to observe and wait to see what happened next and if they would be dismissed or not.

[Nathan Ryder]

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]
"Dirty pool, old man," she said, pouting. The doors swished open, revealing the corridor where her superior supposedly resided. She stepped backwards out of the lift and pointed at him in mock warning. If she had to go in and disable all replicators of that decaf abomination it was only a matter of when. "But I still want dinner."

[USS Challenger - Turbolift]
"Of course, a girl's got to eat," he said. With a cheeky grin, Nathan let Kali get a few feet away before casually following her. It was not his fault they were headed in the same direction. He had seen no point in lingering around Medical when both the CMO and the Captain were in a meeting together. He could introduce himself to both of them at the same time once the meeting got done.

With that Gohum heads to the briefing room and knocks really hard. Realizing that he was on the wrong end of the ship he walks back tot he correct briefing room with a pencil paper and clipboard ready to take notes and then knocks on the door.

[USS Challenger-A - Deck One - Briefing room]
"Crewman, the Captain and senior staff are in an important meeting.  What is it you want?" 

[Outside the Briefing Room]
One eyebrow arched briefly when Nathan spotted the Security Crewman knocking on the briefing room door, and heard the voice that responded through the comm system. His gaze flicked to Kali before he nodded to the wall nearby. "I think we had best wait out here," he said softly to the Engineer as he came to a stop. He certainly had yet to be summoned and did not want to intrude on a meeting he had not been invited to. He could wait.