S1E3 - New Horizons

[Therem Estraven]

[Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon]

Therem had finished up his first day as the Horizon's janitor, and he felt like he learned a good deal about the ship. Even if this was a temporary job there was no reason not to try to enjoy it, so he decided to end the day by checking out the mess hall. However, he almost gave a spit take when he heard his name listed under the engineering team. The Commander certainly had a lot of faith in him for some reason... However, until the pirates were dealt with there was no reason not to keep working for the Federation.

As the briefing continued, Therem quiet;y whipped out his handy padd and started looking up information on aquarius-class ships. At the very least he hoped to learn some of the lingo so he wouldn't be completely lost when Ensign Feeka started giving out orders.

[Don Damien Addams]

[As Lt. Don Addam - Horizon]

Onboard the Horizon, it was a pilot's dream—a legend among starships. Don had run with pirates before, back in his smuggling days. The infamous duo, Leggs and Frogger, had been quite the handful, but the pirates they were dealing with now seemed to be a different breed altogether. Pirates had their own set of rules, and alliances were as fluid as they were necessary.

As First Officer, Don nodded with a sense of satisfaction. He had always enjoyed this rank. Though Torra wasn't too far off, their proximity posed a unique challenge that they both needed to navigate.

The pilot in him longed for the helm, but his role as First Command provided its own unique thrill. Watching his department in action was exhilarating. He wanted them to demonstrate that they were the best in the fleet. A proud smile spread across his face as he observed their efforts. He saw the potential in each of them, and in turn, they thrived under his confident gaze.

Wait. His department was not taking Helm.

Lindsey Aubrey was at the helm. Initially, Don wasn't thrilled about this. Memories of the USS Discovery and Tekin flashed through his mind, bringing an unexpected smile to his face. He accepted it—adaptability was key, and sometimes, the past had a funny way of providing perspective.

[BlueDonim]

Outpost Solaere|Medical

Feeva watched as they were interrupted by Rimous' working on the Onlie. Only she didn't know yet that that's what this fellow was. He looked like a child in a Starfleet costume, like some of the chislers dressed as at Hallow's Eve. Of course...so did she, but at least she was...developed.

Feeva nodded. She understood.

"Well. Please, do your best to stay out of trouble, and if your injuries act up again, report back 'ere immediately," she said. "Mr. Rimous, please join me in the office once your patient is squared away. Do you know how to do the check-out procedures?" She asked the cadet, trying to get them back on track. The Betazed woman didn't handle deviations from schedule too well, though she wasn't mad. Just overwhelmed.

Doni Rimous
[Outpost Solaere | Medical Bay]

Doni finished up by giving the young looking man a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Remember, take it easy for a bit, alright?" he said, his smile warm and genuine. "And definitely avoid Nausicaans for a while. They're bad for your health."

As Kyan hopped off the bio-bed, Doni heard Feeva's instruction and turned to her, nodding quickly. "Yes, Dr. Drylo, uh Ma'am. I know how to do the check-out procedures," he replied, his tone earnest and respectful. "I'll just make sure everything's in order here and then join you in the office."

He gave her a quick smile, hoping to convey his eagerness to learn and help despite the overwhelming situation. "I'll be there in a minute," he assured her before turning back to finish up Kyan's discharge paperwork, his fingers working efficiently on the console and picking up a PADD.

"Ok, I'm discharging you. Please follow these after care instructions on this PADD and if you have any issues don't hesitate to contact us." Doni gives a reassuring thumbs up before turning away to go and join Feeva in her office.

[Kinley Garrison]

[ approaching the station | shuttlecraft ]

The cargo hold was filled with items, valuable or not was yet to be determined.  Might be completely worthless,  might make someone's day. She'd find out soon she hoped.

Following a simple course back to the station she was starting to relax again when the shuttle's proximity alarms blared, jolting both women to attention.

"What's that?" Chuna asked, her voice edged with concern.

Lindsey's fingers flew over the console, bringing up the sensors. "We've got a drifting object directly ahead. It's... Oh no, it's a torpedo. A live one."

The torpedo floated ominously in their path, its sleek, deadly form clearly visible against the backdrop of space. Lindsey immediately cut the shuttle's speed, bringing it to a halt a safe distance away.

"Can we go around it?" Chuna suggested, eyes wide with worry.

Lindsey shook her head. "It's too close to the outpost. If it detonates, it could cause serious damage."

Chuna bit her lip, thinking quickly. "We need to disarm it. Do we have any equipment on board that can help?"

Lindsey scanned their cargo hold. "We've got some tools from the salvage. Maybe we can use them to deactivate the warhead?"

As they floated closer to the torpedo, the scale of the weapon became even more apparent. Its targeting sensors were inactive, but the warhead glowed faintly, a stark reminder of the danger it posed.

"Chuna, do you know how to disarm this thing?"

Chuna hesitated, her antennae twitching nervously. "I've handled a lot of tech, but military-grade torpedoes? This is beyond my expertise."

The realization hung heavy between them. They were alone, floating in the void, with an armed torpedo capable of catastrophic destruction. Lindsey's heart pounded as she considered their options.

"Any movement might trigger it, and the station didn't see it, so the only way they can find it - is if we stay here"

Chuna swore, it seemed the appropriate thing to do

With a sigh, Lindsey picked up the com again

"mayday mayday mayday.  This is shuttle 7 close by the station in section 4.  We have a drifting torpedo with what appears to be a live warhead.  We are ill equipped to move it, disarm it or survive it.  Please advise.  Mayday"

[Continuation of Post #88]

"Noo, onto business," the Admiral stated, then proceeded. "I have called as many department heads and department deputies here today to describe assignments regarding the Horizon: First and foremost, that the Horizon is strictly limited to the Ciden System and the outlying Tarod Sector, and nae further past anywhere unless specified by assignment from Starfleet Command.

"Second, given the situation of the command staff consisting of two Commanders, for the moment, we will look at it like the situation of when the Enterprise-A had her command staff of two Captains, Kirk and Spock respectively, Kirk having captaincy after being demoted from the rank of admiral, and etcetera. Therefore, as main Commanding Officer, Commander Garrison will be remaining command of Outpost Solaere and aboard, unless she needs to command the Horizon. Horizon's command, meantime, goes to Commander Said, who will operate the vessel for inter-sector affairs, patrols, escorts, transportation needs and exploration parties, again etcetera.

"Bear in mind, not all the senior officers can be available to man the Horizon; Commander Said need only take one or two additional senior officers to help her command the Horizon, but the assignments to the Horizon will strictly be for junior officers, and for attachment ship senior staff to be assigned to the department deputies. Civilian volunteers will also be of use aboard the Horizon, especially since the task force sent from the Seventeenth Fleet won't be here forever, at least until the situation with the pirates is resolved.

"And noo, on the subject of the pirates," Gillespie said, changing the subject. "Garrison, Said, yeh each have a mission in regards to them. Garrison, you're to handle the internal matter; this is why we're meeting aboard the Horizon. Commander Mail here and I have been investigating the idea of somebody who is leaking the convoy schedules to the pirates, hence all the trouble yeh have had the past two months. Our investigations into the guts of the outpost have revealed several stations that are used by parties unknown, but are being used to eavesdrop on internal ship comms, even accessing computer systems.

"Additionally, our reviews of the system logs indicate evidences of a sort of hacking involved; access has been gained through use of the command codes of the outpost's previous command staff. I appreciate your wiping those codes from the system," he added, nodding in approval, "but I find it disturbing that somebody is using the codes of Pablo and Nunia Javiera, especially since...since Pablo had been killed in the battle of the Tyra system, and there nae had been a trace of Nunia since the Dominion War ended."

He paused a moment, and Nira wondered about the mention of those names. Did Gillespie know them? And from the way Gillespie spoke of Nunia Javiera, she wondered what was wrong with her.

"In summary," Gillespie finished, "Garrison's mission is to search for the leaker, capture him, her or it, and find oot what their connection is to the pirates. Said, you're to take the Horizon to deal with any further pirate raids. Your first assignment in that regard is to help protect the incoming Federation convoy with the Corps of Engineer ships. I will be remaining around Solaere to assist yeh and to point oot to yeh where to go; yeh will receive details for the convoy escort when yeh meet them, once they arrive at the Tarod Sector in the next few hours."

"I look forward to it, Admiral," Nira said. Then she looked around at those in attendance. "Lieutenant Addams?" she asked of Don. "Counselor Drylo, Ensigns Fawkes, Nelois, V'Larinn, Doctor," she added to the EMH, "I hereby choose you for my senior staff on the Horizon, Addams as acting First Officer. I may have some additional civilians in mind, too, Lindsey Aubrey for helm, when her salvage run of the day is finished, and Therem Estrevan to assist Ensign Feeka at Engineering."

[Ready Room - prior]

Kinley nodded as she had her job; to try and root out this mole. She wasn't a fan of keeping secrets in her job, never had been,  but it seemed like there was no choice. she only could hope that things would be back to normal as soon as possible. Watching as the Admiral's assistant took down the device, she walked into the bridge, and noticed the bustle. Aryth came up to her with the sitrep.

"Commander... We have a problem. Shuttle 7 has reported coming across a live warhead! what should we do?"

"We need to get them out of there. Now."

This is Commander Garrison to Shuttle 7. Stay calm. If you feel like you can, back away carefully. If not, hang tight. If it looks like it will imminently explode, then get out as  fast as you can, full speed. We'll be sending out support to you as soon as possible. Please send us your coordinates.

[Present time]

[Mess hall]

Kinley nodded as the Admiral gave their mission. As much as she'd like to see this new ship in action, someone had to keep an eye on the home front. She smiled to the crew in front of her. They'd do great.

Suddenly, Aryth came into the room, kind of frazzled,  holding a datapad and looking rather intimidated in front of the Admiral. " Um.... so sorry to interrupt, but we have gotten some scans of enemy activity in the area!

Kinley nodded. noting the admiral . ' We don't have much time to lose then. Shall we get this ship flying?" she asked, as she knew he far ouranked her.

[Feeva Drylo]

Medical|Oupost Solaere

My god, where did all these people come from?

"Bloody ship in the area," she said. "As if we NEED more bodies in 'ere," the woman replied. "This here is Cadet Dr. Doni Rimous. This is the EMH," she said, to Doni.

Yes, Dr. Drylo, uh Ma'am. I know how to do the check-out procedures...I'll just make sure everything's in order here and then join you in the office.

"Alright," she said, and made her way to the office. She jumped into the seat. Was she nuts? She was probably slowly going around the bend.

----------------

USS Horizion|Mess Hall

The small woman had finally found her way to the giant ship and then, to the mess hall. She quickly took a seat, climbing into a chair-quite literally-and adjusting her glasses. She hoped she hadn't missed much but she'd had a minor emergency to attend to-a patient had begun projectile vomiting and she'd needed to attend to that.

She hoped she hadn't missed TOO much. "Apologies for my tardiness, there was a vomiting patient," she sent to Nira, telepathically.

[Charlotte Fawkes]

[Commander Nira Said | First Officer's Quarters | Deck Two | Outpost Solaere]

Nira looked up from her meal when Ensign Fawkes called in. "Indeed?" she said. "Well, it's good and prudent, Ensign. See if you can calculate and estimate its course; we'll see if any incoming ships will come into proximity to this asteroid in the next few hours. Thank you for the heads-up. Said out."

As they ate, Ian's words made Nira look up in surprise. "Rebuilding? That makes sense, my Chief of Security...who used to be my own Chief of Security...he did mention the weapons array isn't just going to need to be reset, but made from scratch. I approved of that work, but it will still leave Solaere vulnerable...

"I don't think fully rebuilding could be in order," Nira said, and then she chuckled. "...it's ironic, I used to think the same thing about the Challenger, but that was before I got used to it; even if the Challenger would've been more of an Excelsior-class ship, it just has new innards that make it more effective, produce more of a punch. In fact, look at Deep Space Nine: It was an old station, despite being fifty years old when Starfleet and Bajoran authorities took over, and yet it was converted into one of the most powerful fortresses in the quadrant.

"And it seems to me that Outpost Seven, before becoming Outpost Solaere, had gone through similar stages in varying points in its history, fixing itself up, modernizing itself," Nira continued analytically. "Before the Borg emerged and the project came about to upgrade itself to counter the Borg, the only time it ever had such a huge armament phase was when outposts like this one were attacked by that Romulan Bird of Prey Kirk chased down...

"The challenge I see is more in regards to how the station had been abandoned, looted, and used as a cache and base for pirates and criminals...that and manpower. Hopefully, we'll see what Admiral Gillespie has in store for us - and the Horizon - tomorrow."

[Continuation of Post #88]

"Noo, onto business," the Admiral stated, then proceeded. "I have called as many department heads and department deputies here today to describe assignments regarding the Horizon: First and foremost, that the Horizon is strictly limited to the Ciden System and the outlying Tarod Sector, and nae further past anywhere unless specified by assignment from Starfleet Command.

"Second, given the situation of the command staff consisting of two Commanders, for the moment, we will look at it like the situation of when the Enterprise-A had her command staff of two Captains, Kirk and Spock respectively, Kirk having captaincy after being demoted from the rank of admiral, and etcetera. Therefore, as main Commanding Officer, Commander Garrison will be remaining command of Outpost Solaere and aboard, unless she needs to command the Horizon. Horizon's command, meantime, goes to Commander Said, who will operate the vessel for inter-sector affairs, patrols, escorts, transportation needs and exploration parties, again etcetera.

"Bear in mind, not all the senior officers can be available to man the Horizon; Commander Said need only take one or two additional senior officers to help her command the Horizon, but the assignments to the Horizon will strictly be for junior officers, and for attachment ship senior staff to be assigned to the department deputies. Civilian volunteers will also be of use aboard the Horizon, especially since the task force sent from the Seventeenth Fleet won't be here forever, at least until the situation with the pirates is resolved.

"And noo, on the subject of the pirates," Gillespie said, changing the subject. "Garrison, Said, yeh each have a mission in regards to them. Garrison, you're to handle the internal matter; this is why we're meeting aboard the Horizon. Commander Mail here and I have been investigating the idea of somebody who is leaking the convoy schedules to the pirates, hence all the trouble yeh have had the past two months. Our investigations into the guts of the outpost have revealed several stations that are used by parties unknown, but are being used to eavesdrop on internal ship comms, even accessing computer systems.

"Additionally, our reviews of the system logs indicate evidences of a sort of hacking involved; access has been gained through use of the command codes of the outpost's previous command staff. I appreciate your wiping those codes from the system," he added, nodding in approval, "but I find it disturbing that somebody is using the codes of Pablo and Nunia Javiera, especially since...since Pablo had been killed in the battle of the Tyra system, and there nae had been a trace of Nunia since the Dominion War ended."

He paused a moment, and Nira wondered about the mention of those names. Did Gillespie know them? And from the way Gillespie spoke of Nunia Javiera, she wondered what was wrong with her.

"In summary," Gillespie finished, "Garrison's mission is to search for the leaker, capture him, her or it, and find oot what their connection is to the pirates. Said, you're to take the Horizon to deal with any further pirate raids. Your first assignment in that regard is to help protect the incoming Federation convoy with the Corps of Engineer ships. I will be remaining around Solaere to assist yeh and to point oot to yeh where to go; yeh will receive details for the convoy escort when yeh meet them, once they arrive at the Tarod Sector in the next few hours."

"I look forward to it, Admiral," Nira said. Then she looked around at those in attendance. "Lieutenant Addams?" she asked of Don. "Counselor Drylo, Ensigns Fawkes, Nelois, V'Larinn, Doctor," she added to the EMH, "I hereby choose you for my senior staff on the Horizon, Addams as acting First Officer. I may have some additional civilians in mind, too, Lindsey Aubrey for helm, when her salvage run of the day is finished, and Therem Estrevan to assist Ensign Feeka at Engineering."

| Ensign Fawkes | Science Officer | Deck 1, Ops Center | Outpost Solaere |

"Affirmative, Commander. I will get on that."   Once Fawkes ended her communications with Said, the science officer immediately retook control of the scanner to calculate the rock's trajectory. The nearest planet on the asteroid's course was Ciden II. She wondered momentarily if the planet, with its exposed core, might pull the asteroid close enough to hinder mining in the area. Fortunately, the rock was not of enough mass to pose a viable threat to Ciden II. However, by her calculations, Fawkes determined the asteroid would miss the miners' route by approximately 300,000 km. She immediately notified the mining vessels orbiting Ciden II.

"Commander Said. The asteroid will approach Ciden II within 300,000 km, which warrants observation. I don't foresee any trouble, but I've notified the miners to be on the lookout. Fawkes out."

| Ensign Fawkes | Science Officer | Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B |

Charlotte was pleased that Savar was feeling better. She planned to visit him but was pulled away from the outpost to the Horizon – some big to-do with Admiral Gillespie. With time to spare, Fawkes examined the labs and was pleased to find such a well-equipped science lab on the Horizon, given the ship's size and specifications. While she enjoyed working in Ops, a part of her longed to get stuck in a lab working for long hours while unraveling the unknown. But such thoughts were romanticizing Starfleet and her place. As an ensign, she went where she was told and did what she was asked.

Finding her way to the mess hall, Fawkes stood at ease, listening to the Admiral and commander. She was surprised to hear of the spy but even more surprised to hear Said call her name. "Senior staff?" she whispered to herself. "On a ship?" A smile spread across the ensign's face. Whether she served in the lab or on the bridge, either would be a dream come true.

[Danjar-Torra Addams]

Lieutenant Danjar-Torra Addams
[Outpost Solaere - Deck One - Operations Center]

Gohun was unsure of what he should do. He didn't remember being put in charge of a department, but he could simply perform a basic inventory and see what was needed for the next quarterly expenditures and filled it out. With that, Gohun sent the needed materials in a message.

Torra received the message from Gohun and forwarded it, along with a list from her department, on to Nira.  With any luck they would be able to get most of the supplies from the USS Challenger.
.
.

[hours later...]

[Spatial grid ref 77 | Outpost Solaere | Borrowed Shuttle 3B | Lindsey Pilot | Chuna V'Tal Npc Salvager borrowed from Cloten ]

The hours passed as they methodically worked through the wreckage. Each recovery was meticulously documented and secured. Despite the eerie silence of the derelict ships and the ever-present threat of radiation, the sense of purpose kept them focused.

Finally, with the shuttle's cargo hold filled with an eclectic mix of valuable and crucial items, Lindsey plotted a course back to Outpost Solaere.

"Shuttle to Ops"
"We have a selection of useful stuff for the engineering teams, and um, we also have 6 body bags with whole or part occupants"

Even the best of endeavours could end on a down when going through ship graveyards

Torra had wanted to be on the salvage run but the staffing issues were still tying her to Operations Center.  Hearing the shuttle call in, Torra responded back.

" Thank you Shuttle Seven. We appreciate your good work.  I'll contact medical to have some personnel ready for return."

After closing the comm, Torra sent a message on to Counselor Drylo regarding the body retrieval.

Given the request for dinner with Captain Galloway, Torra informed Commander Garrison that she would be on break for the next hour or two and handed over Ops to the Commander's assistant - unfortunately all other Ops personnel were otherwise occupied.
.
.

[Later that evening]

[Lt. Don Addams - Outpost]
He and his wife busied themselves with preparations for dinner. Although he was available if needed, he had no plans to visit the Horizon. He trusted the situation but felt it wasn't urgent.

[ approaching the station | shuttlecraft ]

The cargo hold was filled with items, valuable or not was yet to be determined.  Might be completely worthless,  might make someone's day. She'd find out soon she hoped.

Following a simple course back to the station she was starting to relax again when the shuttle's proximity alarms blared, jolting both women to attention.
...
"mayday mayday mayday.  This is shuttle 7 close by the station in section 4.  We have a drifting torpedo with what appears to be a live warhead.  We are ill equipped to move it, disarm it or survive it.  Please advise.  Mayday"

[Ready Room - prior]

Kinley nodded as she had her job; to try and root out this mole. She wasn't a fan of keeping secrets in her job, never had been,  but it seemed like there was no choice. she only could hope that things would be back to normal as soon as possible. Watching as the Admiral's assistant took down the device, she walked into the bridge, and noticed the bustle. Aryth came up to her with the sitrep.

"Commander... We have a problem. Shuttle 7 has reported coming across a live warhead! what should we do?"

"We need to get them out of there. Now."

This is Commander Garrison to Shuttle 7. Stay calm. If you feel like you can, back away carefully. If not, hang tight. If it looks like it will imminently explode, then get out as  fast as you can, full speed. We'll be sending out support to you as soon as possible. Please send us your coordinates.

Torra had just finished changing out of her uniform when her comm pinged regarding a situation up in Ops.

"Go ahead to the dinner without me... I'll be there as soon as I can."

Then still dressed in her green dress Torra returned to Ops to respond to the emergency.  She found Commander Kinley advising Shuttle 7 to attempt circle around a derelict torpedo.

"Commander, the Shuttle Onias has a long range tractor beam and stronger shielding they might be able to reverse the tractor beam to push and then when at a safer distance detonate the warhead with a phaser shot."

.
.
.

[The next day]

Torra is to remain aboard Ops to take temporary command, but I know it's because of how she felt of the Revenant, and how the Horizon is a sister ship. Stryker is also remaining aboard, as his technical skill with the weapons array is especially needed. And, thank Allah, the CSO has been discharged and able to relieve Ensign Fawkes.[/i]

Torra was grateful that she wasn't selected to be a part of the Horizon's crew, she had new personnel to train.

[Nira Said]

[ approaching the station | shuttlecraft ]

The cargo hold was filled with items, valuable or not was yet to be determined.  Might be completely worthless,  might make someone's day. She'd find out soon she hoped.

Following a simple course back to the station she was starting to relax again when the shuttle's proximity alarms blared, jolting both women to attention.

"What's that?" Chuna asked, her voice edged with concern.

Lindsey's fingers flew over the console, bringing up the sensors. "We've got a drifting object directly ahead. It's... Oh no, it's a torpedo. A live one."

The torpedo floated ominously in their path, its sleek, deadly form clearly visible against the backdrop of space. Lindsey immediately cut the shuttle's speed, bringing it to a halt a safe distance away.

"Can we go around it?" Chuna suggested, eyes wide with worry.

Lindsey shook her head. "It's too close to the outpost. If it detonates, it could cause serious damage."

Chuna bit her lip, thinking quickly. "We need to disarm it. Do we have any equipment on board that can help?"

Lindsey scanned their cargo hold. "We've got some tools from the salvage. Maybe we can use them to deactivate the warhead?"

As they floated closer to the torpedo, the scale of the weapon became even more apparent. Its targeting sensors were inactive, but the warhead glowed faintly, a stark reminder of the danger it posed.

"Chuna, do you know how to disarm this thing?"

Chuna hesitated, her antennae twitching nervously. "I've handled a lot of tech, but military-grade torpedoes? This is beyond my expertise."

The realization hung heavy between them. They were alone, floating in the void, with an armed torpedo capable of catastrophic destruction. Lindsey's heart pounded as she considered their options.

"Any movement might trigger it, and the station didn't see it, so the only way they can find it - is if we stay here"

Chuna swore, it seemed the appropriate thing to do

With a sigh, Lindsey picked up the com again

"mayday mayday mayday.  This is shuttle 7 close by the station in section 4.  We have a drifting torpedo with what appears to be a live warhead.  We are ill equipped to move it, disarm it or survive it.  Please advise.  Mayday"

[Ready Room - prior]

Kinley nodded as she had her job; to try and root out this mole. She wasn't a fan of keeping secrets in her job, never had been,  but it seemed like there was no choice. she only could hope that things would be back to normal as soon as possible. Watching as the Admiral's assistant took down the device, she walked into the bridge, and noticed the bustle. Aryth came up to her with the sitrep.

"Commander... We have a problem. Shuttle 7 has reported coming across a live warhead! what should we do?"

"We need to get them out of there. Now."

This is Commander Garrison to Shuttle 7. Stay calm. If you feel like you can, back away carefully. If not, hang tight. If it looks like it will imminently explode, then get out as  fast as you can, full speed. We'll be sending out support to you as soon as possible. Please send us your coordinates.

[Later that evening]

Torra had just finished changing out of her uniform when her comm pinged regarding a situation up in Ops.

"Go ahead to the dinner without me... I'll be there as soon as I can."

Then still dressed in her green dress Torra returned to Ops to respond to the emergency.  She found Commander Kinley advising Shuttle 7 to attempt circle around a derelict torpedo.

"Commander, the Shuttle Onias has a long range tractor beam and stronger shielding they might be able to reverse the tractor beam to push and then when at a safer distance detonate the warhead with a phaser shot."

[Commander Nira Said | First Officer's Quarters | Deck Two | Outpost Solaere]
[the previous evening...]

Suddenly Nira received notification from Ops: A shuttle had found an adrift torpedo with a live warhead. Nira blinked in horror. Lindsay. Her salvage flight...

She was informed of a recommendation from Ops to dispatch one of the long-range shuttles, Onias, to get to the smaller shuttle and the warhead, and she remembered that there was somebody with the right technical expertise.

"Said to Lieutenant Aune. Stryker, there's a situation arising. A salvage flight has come across an adrift torpedo with a live warhead. Get to Shuttle Onias via site-to-site transport, and I'll have a flight officer get down to you. Said out."

Nira then gave a reply:   "Said to Ensign Ch'ishrelnin, report to Shuttle Onias via site-to-site transport for a flight assignment."

Then Nira called back to Ops: "Said to Ops: I got word of the situation. I've sent Lieutenant Aune and Ensign Ch'ishrelnin to handle the warhead. Commander Garrison, pardon for relaying the order, but I felt it was an urgent enough of a situation to get Lieutenant Aune over; he has some technical expertise when it comes to weapons technology, and I felt he's the right person for the job. Said out."

And she went back to dinner to pass the time while waiting for the Adamses.

[Stryker]

[Commander Nira Said | First Officer's Quarters | Deck Two | Outpost Solaere]
[the previous evening...]

Suddenly Nira received notification from Ops: A shuttle had found an adrift torpedo with a live warhead. Nira blinked in horror. Lindsay. Her salvage flight...

She was informed of a recommendation from Ops to dispatch one of the long-range shuttles, Onias, to get to the smaller shuttle and the warhead, and she remembered that there was somebody with the right technical expertise.

"Said to Lieutenant Aune. Stryker, there's a situation arising. A salvage flight has come across an adrift torpedo with a live warhead. Get to Shuttle Onias via site-to-site transport, and I'll have a flight officer get down to you. Said out."

Nira then gave a reply:   "Said to Ensign Ch'ishrelnin, report to Shuttle Onias via site-to-site transport for a flight assignment."

Then Nira called back to Ops: "Said to Ops: I got word of the situation. I've sent Lieutenant Aune and Ensign Ch'ishrelnin to handle the warhead. Commander Garrison, pardon for relaying the order, but I felt it was an urgent enough of a situation to get Lieutenant Aune over; he has some technical expertise when it comes to weapons technology, and I felt he's the right person for the job. Said out."

And she went back to dinner to pass the time while waiting for the Adamses.

Sven received the communication, grateful that he had an excuse to get away from that admiral. Even if it meant disarming a tactical warhead.

He acknowledged the communication,  "Yes, ma'am." and found himself transported to the shuttle. The flight controller navigated the empty space to the site and Sven saw it floating in the vastness of nothingness. A sleek black obloid object. The shiny black plating reflecting light off the distant sun, and the lights of the shuttle. Sven would have to do an EVA walk. He suited up. The suit was tight around his frame and bulging muscles. But he was used to it. He popped the helmet on, and gave the pilot a thumbs up and checked the communication. Lights inside the helmet light up his rugged face.

"Ready t'go." He said.

The pilot initiated a forcefield between themselves and Sven, then decompressed the side Sven was on. The rear door opened and Sven pushed himself out into space. He used small jets from his suit to maneuver to the torpedo.

A moment later he was on it. He pulled out his tools and magnetically sealed it to the frame of the warhead. A moment later he popped off the outer access hatch. He was in his element. As a bunker-buster back in the war, his job was to blow things up, break into things, or seal things up and bolster them.

Under the panel was a screen. Whatever it was, it was encrypted. He put his hacking skills to use. It looked like a standard starfleet torpedo, but it was altered. The program was encrypted, but poorly done so, and not of Starfleet design.

"Sven to Solarere. This warhead is of Starfleet design. But its security protocols have been tampered with and altered. The overlying designation shows it to be a mark 5 photon torpedo, but it's actually a mark 7 quantum torpedo. The device is live. I'm workin' t'deactivate it now. Stand by."

[Nira Said]

[Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon]

Therem had finished up his first day as the Horizon's janitor, and he felt like he learned a good deal about the ship. Even if this was a temporary job there was no reason not to try to enjoy it, so he decided to end the day by checking out the mess hall. However, he almost gave a spit take when he heard his name listed under the engineering team. The Commander certainly had a lot of faith in him for some reason... However, until the pirates were dealt with there was no reason not to keep working for the Federation.

As the briefing continued, Therem quiet;y whipped out his handy padd and started looking up information on aquarius-class ships. At the very least he hoped to learn some of the lingo so he wouldn't be completely lost when Ensign Feeka started giving out orders.

[As Lt. Don Addam - Horizon]

Onboard the Horizon, it was a pilot's dream—a legend among starships. Don had run with pirates before, back in his smuggling days. The infamous duo, Leggs and Frogger, had been quite the handful, but the pirates they were dealing with now seemed to be a different breed altogether. Pirates had their own set of rules, and alliances were as fluid as they were necessary.

As First Officer, Don nodded with a sense of satisfaction. He had always enjoyed this rank. Though Torra wasn't too far off, their proximity posed a unique challenge that they both needed to navigate.

The pilot in him longed for the helm, but his role as First Command provided its own unique thrill. Watching his department in action was exhilarating. He wanted them to demonstrate that they were the best in the fleet. A proud smile spread across his face as he observed their efforts. He saw the potential in each of them, and in turn, they thrived under his confident gaze.

Wait. His department was not taking Helm.

Lindsey Aubrey was at the helm. Initially, Don wasn't thrilled about this. Memories of the USS Discovery and Tekin flashed through his mind, bringing an unexpected smile to his face. He accepted it—adaptability was key, and sometimes, the past had a funny way of providing perspective.

USS Horizion|Mess Hall

The small woman had finally found her way to the giant ship and then, to the mess hall. She quickly took a seat, climbing into a chair-quite literally-and adjusting her glasses. She hoped she hadn't missed much but she'd had a minor emergency to attend to-a patient had begun projectile vomiting and she'd needed to attend to that.

She hoped she hadn't missed TOO much. "Apologies for my tardiness, there was a vomiting patient," she sent to Nira, telepathically.

| Ensign Fawkes | Science Officer | Deck 1, Ops Center | Outpost Solaere |

"Affirmative, Commander. I will get on that."   Once Fawkes ended her communications with Said, the science officer immediately retook control of the scanner to calculate the rock's trajectory. The nearest planet on the asteroid's course was Ciden II. She wondered momentarily if the planet, with its exposed core, might pull the asteroid close enough to hinder mining in the area. Fortunately, the rock was not of enough mass to pose a viable threat to Ciden II. However, by her calculations, Fawkes determined the asteroid would miss the miners' route by approximately 300,000 km. She immediately notified the mining vessels orbiting Ciden II.

"Commander Said. The asteroid will approach Ciden II within 300,000 km, which warrants observation. I don't foresee any trouble, but I've notified the miners to be on the lookout. Fawkes out."

| Ensign Fawkes | Science Officer | Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B |

Charlotte was pleased that Savar was feeling better. She planned to visit him but was pulled away from the outpost to the Horizon – some big to-do with Admiral Gillespie. With time to spare, Fawkes examined the labs and was pleased to find such a well-equipped science lab on the Horizon, given the ship's size and specifications. While she enjoyed working in Ops, a part of her longed to get stuck in a lab working for long hours while unraveling the unknown. But such thoughts were romanticizing Starfleet and her place. As an ensign, she went where she was told and did what she was asked.

Finding her way to the mess hall, Fawkes stood at ease, listening to the Admiral and commander. She was surprised to hear of the spy but even more surprised to hear Said call her name. "Senior staff?" she whispered to herself. "On a ship?" A smile spread across the ensign's face. Whether she served in the lab or on the bridge, either would be a dream come true.

[PRESENT DAY]
[Commander Nira Said | Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Nira noted the different reactions, and she could sense Don wasn't happy. It made Nira figure that she could have him at the helm at times.

"Seems I have my crew. And there are those on the Horizon that they can answer to," Nira said. "I'll have to find the volunteer helmsman later, Admiral. Now, is there anything that we need to know about the Horizon that can be resolved."

"A handful of issues," Gillespie said. "The lateral drives are so that at high warp, it can get a little rough, but we're not expecting this ship anywhere past the sector. The biggest issue is that the weapons systems, powerful as they are, and being able to channel phaser power through the main engines, will burn out at times; we discovered that on our shakedown cruise."

"Holy Allah," said Nira.

"I ken. We've been working on the issue, Feeka leading things oot. We had hoped that, at the stop at our last starbase will give us the time required. And if we had had our full shakedown cruise, we hoped that issue would be resolved by the end of it. Unfortunately, given the situation, we had to end early; the problem had to be worked on en route to Solaere, even with our borrowing Engineering personnel as much as Challenger can spare, like Chief ch'Verret once in a while, and even then, there's still the slight chance of burnout, especially to phasers.

"It shouldn't be much of a problem, and given time for a cooldown, phasers, especially pulse phasers, will get back online. However, the inevitability of burnout is still prevalent, so be prepared to fire torpedoes, manually if need be. Noo, I believe there's one last matter of business...Ensign Charlotte Fawkes?"

He then pulled out a small black pip, handed it to Kinley, and whispered in her ear, pointing to Ensign Fawkes, and Nira knew what was coming. It was verified as Gillespie started quite the impromptu promotion ceremony. "As the highest ranking officer present, and in reviewing personnel records, I hereby authorize the following action regarding Ensign Fawkes. It is under your overall commanding officer to execute this action."

He nodded to Kinley, and Nira grinned; how like him to pull a surprise promotion ceremony. And she remembered how some promotions on Challenger were authorized by him. She looked on with a smile as Charlotte Fawkes was promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade, and she was the first one in the ensuing applause. The congratulations and praise were cut short, and just as soon as the black pip was pinned next to Fawkes' gold one, that Yeoman Aryth Castellan appeared.

[Mess hall]

Kinley nodded as the Admiral gave their mission. As much as she'd like to see this new ship in action, someone had to keep an eye on the home front. She smiled to the crew in front of her. They'd do great.

Suddenly, Aryth came into the room, kind of frazzled,  holding a datapad and looking rather intimidated in front of the Admiral. " Um.... so sorry to interrupt, but we have gotten some scans of enemy activity in the area!

Kinley nodded. noting the admiral . ' We don't have much time to lose then. Shall we get this ship flying?" she asked, as she knew he far ouranked her.

Nira and Gillespie whirled around at Aryth and flinched. "No...they're back," Nira said. "It can't be a coincidence, the mole you mentioned may have informed the pirates that the weapons are offline, Solaere will be defenseless."

"Then I think it's time we haul our arses," Gillespie said. "Garrison, you and I to Ops. Said, yeh noo what to do."

"Yes, Admiral," Nira said. "All hands to your stations...oh, and Admiral, inasmuch as we don't have additional helm personnel, would you mind if I borrowed your aide to be my temporary first officer on the ship? Lieutenant Addams will report to the helm." She looked over to Don and nodded.

The buzz-cut and scarred Trill blinked and looked over to the Admiral, who grinned. "Don't mind if I do. Ruzal's gotten to noo the Horizon for a while, she can help point yeh oot; this ship is entirely different from the Revenant, given what's been worked on."

"I understand, Admiral," Nira said. She then walked alongside Feeva as she took her to the bridge. "It's okay, Feeva, you didn't miss much..."

[Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Nira was at the Horizon's conn and was ready. Ruzal Mail sat at First Officer position, Kela next to her. Fawkes was at the science station next to Feeva, who manned Mission Ops, which was more akin to the third chair on a big Starship bridge, the chair most used by Counselor Troi in the days she served on Enterprises D and E. Nira had Don at the helm, while behind, V'Larinn manned Tactical, as Therem took the station across from him. Nira had just finished writing a text order to Lindsay Aubrey; she notified her to beam over to the Horizon once she was able to.

"Commander, Ops has cleared us for departure," Ruzal notified. "Space doors have opened."

"Alright, Lieutenant, take us out at quarter impulse," Nira ordered Don. "I can promise a worthy flight, Don. She's not the Martha, but the Horizon will do beautifully."

[Lindsey]

Sven received the communication, grateful that he had an excuse to get away from that admiral. Even if it meant disarming a tactical warhead.

He acknowledged the communication,  "Yes, ma'am." and found himself transported to the shuttle. The flight controller navigated the empty space to the site and Sven saw it floating in the vastness of nothingness. A sleek black obloid object. The shiny black plating reflecting light off the distant sun, and the lights of the shuttle. Sven would have to do an EVA walk. He suited up. The suit was tight around his frame and bulging muscles. But he was used to it. He popped the helmet on, and gave the pilot a thumbs up and checked the communication. Lights inside the helmet light up his rugged face.

"Ready t'go." He said.

The pilot initiated a forcefield between themselves and Sven, then decompressed the side Sven was on. The rear door opened and Sven pushed himself out into space. He used small jets from his suit to maneuver to the torpedo.

A moment later he was on it. He pulled out his tools and magnetically sealed it to the frame of the warhead. A moment later he popped off the outer access hatch. He was in his element. As a bunker-buster back in the war, his job was to blow things up, break into things, or seal things up and bolster them.

Under the panel was a screen. Whatever it was, it was encrypted. He put his hacking skills to use. It looked like a standard starfleet torpedo, but it was altered. The program was encrypted, but poorly done so, and not of Starfleet design.

"Sven to Solarere. This warhead is of Starfleet design. But its security protocols have been tampered with and altered. The overlying designation shows it to be a mark 5 photon torpedo, but it's actually a mark 7 quantum torpedo. The device is live. I'm workin' t'deactivate it now. Stand by."

Taking the advice (for a change) of Starfleet,  Lindsey backed the Shuttle away to what could be considered a safe distance and held position whilst Stryker went to work.
There wasn't anything she or Chuna could do to help. But being in the vicinity for moral support seemed the least she could do

[Lindsey]

[PRESENT DAY]
[Commander Nira Said | Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Nira had just finished writing a text order to Lindsay Aubrey; she notified her to beam over to the Horizon once she was able to

Lindsey wasn't quite sure what was going on whan she had returned to the station.  After handing back the shuttlecraft the station was all ahoo with the departure of the challenging (or whatever it was called).
She used the distraction to nab a shower from one of the station gyms (at least they were cheap) - and was just getting ready for a well planned day of monotony when her com sounded again
"can a gal get no rest?"
None the less,  she read the message,  and then had to read it a second time.
She's not a transport, and im not worth chucking on a armed vessel just to be evicted... so..
She shrugged and made for a transporter room.
I've been requested to pay the Horizon a visit
She stated to the duty chief and decided it wise to back it up by showing the message on her Bicorder.

She received a raised eyebrow but the chief complied and after checking with the Horizon that they were expecting - gestured for Lindsey to mount the pad.

That disconcerting sensation of all of ones molecular parts going in every direction whilst staying stationary was never one to enjoy.   Some people liked it, and you couldn't deny it was convenient - but flying across in a shuttle was a lot more entertaining.

The pad on the Horizon faded into view

"apparently I'm expected?"
She had half expected someone to be waiting with binders (it would have been traditional) but seemingly this Outpost and its new ship were bucking the trend

[Charlotte Fawkes]

[PRESENT DAY]
[Commander Nira Said | Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Nira noted the different reactions, and she could sense Don wasn't happy. It made Nira figure that she could have him at the helm at times.

"Seems I have my crew. And there are those on the Horizon that they can answer to," Nira said. "I'll have to find the volunteer helmsman later, Admiral. Now, is there anything that we need to know about the Horizon that can be resolved."

"A handful of issues," Gillespie said. "The lateral drives are so that at high warp, it can get a little rough, but we're not expecting this ship anywhere past the sector. The biggest issue is that the weapons systems, powerful as they are, and being able to channel phaser power through the main engines, will burn out at times; we discovered that on our shakedown cruise."

"Holy Allah," said Nira.

"I ken. We've been working on the issue, Feeka leading things oot. We had hoped that, at the stop at our last starbase will give us the time required. And if we had had our full shakedown cruise, we hoped that issue would be resolved by the end of it. Unfortunately, given the situation, we had to end early; the problem had to be worked on en route to Solaere, even with our borrowing Engineering personnel as much as Challenger can spare, like Chief ch'Verret once in a while, and even then, there's still the slight chance of burnout, especially to phasers.

"It shouldn't be much of a problem, and given time for a cooldown, phasers, especially pulse phasers, will get back online. However, the inevitability of burnout is still prevalent, so be prepared to fire torpedoes, manually if need be. Noo, I believe there's one last matter of business...Ensign Charlotte Fawkes?"

He then pulled out a small black pip, handed it to Kinley, and whispered in her ear, pointing to Ensign Fawkes, and Nira knew what was coming. It was verified as Gillespie started quite the impromptu promotion ceremony. "As the highest ranking officer present, and in reviewing personnel records, I hereby authorize the following action regarding Ensign Fawkes. It is under your overall commanding officer to execute this action."

He nodded to Kinley, and Nira grinned; how like him to pull a surprise promotion ceremony. And she remembered how some promotions on Challenger were authorized by him. She looked on with a smile as Charlotte Fawkes was promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade, and she was the first one in the ensuing applause. The congratulations and praise were cut short, and just as soon as the black pip was pinned next to Fawkes' gold one, that Yeoman Aryth Castellan appeared.Nira and Gillespie whirled around at Aryth and flinched. "No...they're back," Nira said. "It can't be a coincidence, the mole you mentioned may have informed the pirates that the weapons are offline, Solaere will be defenseless."

"Then I think it's time we haul our arses," Gillespie said. "Garrison, you and I to Ops. Said, yeh noo what to do."

"Yes, Admiral," Nira said. "All hands to your stations...oh, and Admiral, inasmuch as we don't have additional helm personnel, would you mind if I borrowed your aide to be my temporary first officer on the ship? Lieutenant Addams will report to the helm." She looked over to Don and nodded.

The buzz-cut and scarred Trill blinked and looked over to the Admiral, who grinned. "Don't mind if I do. Ruzal's gotten to noo the Horizon for a while, she can help point yeh oot; this ship is entirely different from the Revenant, given what's been worked on."

"I understand, Admiral," Nira said. She then walked alongside Feeva as she took her to the bridge. "It's okay, Feeva, you didn't miss much..."

[Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Nira was at the Horizon's conn and was ready. Ruzal Mail sat at First Officer position, Kela next to her. Fawkes was at the science station next to Feeva, who manned Mission Ops, which was more akin to the third chair on a big Starship bridge, the chair most used by Counselor Troi in the days she served on Enterprises D and E. Nira had Don at the helm, while behind, V'Larinn manned Tactical, as Therem took the station across from him. Nira had just finished writing a text order to Lindsay Aubrey; she notified her to beam over to the Horizon once she was able to.

"Commander, Ops has cleared us for departure," Ruzal notified. "Space doors have opened."

"Alright, Lieutenant, take us out at quarter impulse," Nira ordered Don. "I can promise a worthy flight, Don. She's not the Martha, but the Horizon will do beautifully."

| Ensign Fawkes | Science Officer | Mess Hall | Deck Three | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B |

The news of possible phaser burnout on the Horizonfrom Admiral Gillespie was troubling, but there seemed to be a workaround using photon torpedoes. The solution wasn't perfect, but Charlotte had difficulty imagining a permanent fix that wouldn't require a few days at a starbase. She thought about the problem while Gillespie continued with his speech. And then she heard her name called.

"Sir?" inquired the ensign, becoming nervous as Commander Garrison and the Admiral whispered. But soon, anxiety gave way to surprise as Kinely applied the black pip to her collar. The new Lieutenant Junior Grade couldn't help but smile, blushing slightly at the applause and attention. "Thank you, Admiral Gillespie, Commander Garrison. I will –" Though she did not want to make a speech during the surprise ceremony, Charlotte did want to express her gratitude and devotion to Starfleet. But duty called as Yeoman Aryth Castellan approached.

| Ensign Fawkes | Science Officer | Bridge | Deck One| USS Horizon NCC-75668-B |

With the outpost in danger, Lt. Fawkes raced to the bridge with the rest of the senior staff. She had not helmed a science station onboard a ship since the academy. Once seated at the station, she readied the console. The oncoming pirates were a serious matter, and Gillespie's concerns of the phasers replayed in her mind. Murphy's law may not be recognized by science, but it seemed just as real as any Newtonian law. The woman let out a sigh, ready for what lay ahead.

[Kela Nelois]

[Continuation of Post #88]

"Noo, onto business," the Admiral stated, then proceeded. "I have called as many department heads and department deputies here today to describe assignments regarding the Horizon: First and foremost, that the Horizon is strictly limited to the Ciden System and the outlying Tarod Sector, and nae further past anywhere unless specified by assignment from Starfleet Command.

"Second, given the situation of the command staff consisting of two Commanders, for the moment, we will look at it like the situation of when the Enterprise-A had her command staff of two Captains, Kirk and Spock respectively, Kirk having captaincy after being demoted from the rank of admiral, and etcetera. Therefore, as main Commanding Officer, Commander Garrison will be remaining command of Outpost Solaere and aboard, unless she needs to command the Horizon. Horizon's command, meantime, goes to Commander Said, who will operate the vessel for inter-sector affairs, patrols, escorts, transportation needs and exploration parties, again etcetera.

"Bear in mind, not all the senior officers can be available to man the Horizon; Commander Said need only take one or two additional senior officers to help her command the Horizon, but the assignments to the Horizon will strictly be for junior officers, and for attachment ship senior staff to be assigned to the department deputies. Civilian volunteers will also be of use aboard the Horizon, especially since the task force sent from the Seventeenth Fleet won't be here forever, at least until the situation with the pirates is resolved.

"And noo, on the subject of the pirates," Gillespie said, changing the subject. "Garrison, Said, yeh each have a mission in regards to them. Garrison, you're to handle the internal matter; this is why we're meeting aboard the Horizon. Commander Mail here and I have been investigating the idea of somebody who is leaking the convoy schedules to the pirates, hence all the trouble yeh have had the past two months. Our investigations into the guts of the outpost have revealed several stations that are used by parties unknown, but are being used to eavesdrop on internal ship comms, even accessing computer systems.

"Additionally, our reviews of the system logs indicate evidences of a sort of hacking involved; access has been gained through use of the command codes of the outpost's previous command staff. I appreciate your wiping those codes from the system," he added, nodding in approval, "but I find it disturbing that somebody is using the codes of Pablo and Nunia Javiera, especially since...since Pablo had been killed in the battle of the Tyra system, and there nae had been a trace of Nunia since the Dominion War ended."

He paused a moment, and Nira wondered about the mention of those names. Did Gillespie know them? And from the way Gillespie spoke of Nunia Javiera, she wondered what was wrong with her.

"In summary," Gillespie finished, "Garrison's mission is to search for the leaker, capture him, her or it, and find oot what their connection is to the pirates. Said, you're to take the Horizon to deal with any further pirate raids. Your first assignment in that regard is to help protect the incoming Federation convoy with the Corps of Engineer ships. I will be remaining around Solaere to assist yeh and to point oot to yeh where to go; yeh will receive details for the convoy escort when yeh meet them, once they arrive at the Tarod Sector in the next few hours."

"I look forward to it, Admiral," Nira said. Then she looked around at those in attendance. "Lieutenant Addams?" she asked of Don. "Counselor Drylo, Ensigns Fawkes, Nelois, V'Larinn, Doctor," she added to the EMH, "I hereby choose you for my senior staff on the Horizon, Addams as acting First Officer. I may have some additional civilians in mind, too, Lindsey Aubrey for helm, when her salvage run of the day is finished, and Therem Estrevan to assist Ensign Feeka at Engineering."

[Ensign Kela Nelois - USS Horizon]

Kela stood at attention of the Admirals and Commanders explaining the situation at hand. The Horizon was a good ship and he was sure it could handle whatever the pirates had. Personally he was glad Starfleet was finally taking a hard stance on this issue. He hoped whoever was assined to the crew would be able to quickly get to work on securing the surrounding space.

What he wasn't expecting was to be one of those people assigned to the ship. It was a valid appointment, yet Kela had never served on a ship before much less worked on one. The closest he ever got was acting as chief of the security detail for a Betazoid diplomat while they transited to a planet. He accepted his orders though as any good officer should. How different could it be from a station console? Would he be able to effectively handle his duties in combat? These thoughts filled his head as he took advantage of the few hours between the meeting and the scheduled time for Horizon's departure to inform his family.
---

"Wasn't your commission specifically to help man this station? Why are they having you go on a ship now?" Mara asked him.

"It's not my choice. The Horizon is an assigned ship to the station. By regulations it is considered a part of the station and its crew can be used however between both vessels. I would not worry though dear. At most we will be gone just a few days while he conduct our search and initial tests of the ship."

Mara gave a small sigh before walking up and giving her husband a hug. Kela could sense her confidence in him yet her fear. Pirates could be anywhere and all it would take is a lucky shot and she would lose her husband forever, "Make sure you message back when you can. When Zexala returns from the day center I will tell her where you are. Stay safe!" she gave a confident smile yet her typically bright demeanor always cracked whenever Kela would leave on missions like this, it was the part of his job she never got used too.

[PRESENT DAY]
[Commander Nira Said | Bridge | Deck One | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Nira was at the Horizon's conn and was ready. Ruzal Mail sat at First Officer position, Kela next to her. Fawkes was at the science station next to Feeva, who manned Mission Ops, which was more akin to the third chair on a big Starship bridge, the chair most used by Counselor Troi in the days she served on Enterprises D and E. Nira had Don at the helm, while behind, V'Larinn manned Tactical, as Therem took the station across from him. Nira had just finished writing a text order to Lindsay Aubrey; she notified her to beam over to the Horizon once she was able to.

"Commander, Ops has cleared us for departure," Ruzal notified. "Space doors have opened."

"Alright, Lieutenant, take us out at quarter impulse," Nira ordered Don. "I can promise a worthy flight, Don. She's not the Martha, but the Horizon will do beautifully."

Kela took a seat at the Ops console. He was glad for the most part it was similar to the systems he trained on for station duties but he had to admit he felt like an old man looking at new technology among all of the younger officers taking their positions and handling their duties without a second thought. For a few minutes while they waiting for approval to leave the station he explored the console to make sure everything was in order and he could quickly find what information he needed when he needed it. He made sure to keep his thoughts hidden, their were many Betazoids on the bridge and he didn't want them sensing what he was feeling.

"All systems functioning Commander. All crew reporting in." he spoke looking up from his console.

[Therem Estraven]

[Therem Straven | Bridge | Deck One | USS Horizon NCC-75668-B]

Therem's eyebrows perked up during the crew announcement. From janitor to working on the bridge was quite a jump. He would miss the opportunity to test out all the high tech cleaning equipment, such as the dust degausser gun, but he was confident that acting a sensor operator would be just as interesting. As he settled into his seat across from the Tactical Officer, he immediately began to reposition the monitors to his liking. He stroked his beard and muttered to himself (a bad habit he picked up after working alone in a desert for so long) at the many scanning protocols and engineering subsystems to monitor.

"Damn, I could tell what the pirates ate for breakfast with some of this tech..."

Since he didn't know all the Federations customs and courtesies for working on the bridge, Therem didn't want to do or say anything that would get him immediately fired. However, he noticed Ensign Fawkes (or was it Lieutenant Junior now?) on the bridge as well. He gave her a silent, double thumbs up for her promotion as well as well as her new assignment.