INCOMING TRANSMISSION
STARFLEET PERSONNEL, SAN FRANCISCO, EARTH
PRIORITY ONE COMMUNIQUE
AUTHORIZATION ALPHA-BETA-1879-GAMMA

TO: Captain Chod, USS Broadsword 
CC: Commander K'anis, Senior Staff, USS Broadsword
FROM: Admiral William Crenshaw, Starfleet Command
DATE: 10201.06
RE: Mission Orders 

Captain :

The Broadsword is to join with Captain Da'Chak of the IKS Wa'Dich for wargames against a small fleet of modified Cargo vessels, configured to simulate Privateer type craft. Once the Wargames are complete, Starfleet will require a report on ship readiness.

Good luck. 

Admiral William Crenshaw,
Starfleet Command

[On Bridge.]

As the Broadsword approaches the rendevous coordinates, a Bird of Prey decloaks in front of them. It soon Hails, identifying itself as the Wa'Dich. Asking for it to be put on screen, Chod turns to the viewscreen.

Appearing on the screen is an older, grizzled Klingon. "Greetings Broadswor...uh, Broadsword, I am Da'Chak, Captain of the Wa'Dich. We've been ordered to proceed to the Morrak system, where we will begin to hunt down a number of smaller craft. They are configured to look like Pirates, and should not be a challenge. If you are ready, we will take the lead."

"Captain", Chod answers, "Greetings from the Federation. We are ready to follow, and I hope your confidence is well placed. Lead on, to glory and profit."

Motioning for the transmission to be cut, Chod sits back down into his chair. "Ens. Phillips, set course to follow our Klingon friends. And lets all be a bit careful, the Klingon is a bit confident, but I don't want to underestimate our opponents. Lets get to it, people."

With the Viewscreen set back to the forward view, the Wa'Dich can be seen lazily turning about and making for the Morrak system.

[On the Bridge at Tactical Station Two]

Blaine stands at tactical two running last minute diagnostics on the defensive and offensive systems before the wargames begin. She checks to assure the modified weapons have been configured properly for the games. When she see's the green lights on her console indicating the computer has completed the diagnostics, she checks the readouts to confirm all systems are within Starfleet parameters then turns to Lt. Mazer at Tactical One, "Sir, all defensive and offensive systems are within Starfleet parameters and weapon configurations have been completed. We are ready."

[At the helm of the USS Broadsword]

"Matching the Wa'Dichs course and speed, sir."

[Kincaid goes over her, um, stuff... on the Bridge]

Kincaid looked through her sheaf of PADDs and Frowned.

Aside from the fact that hauling around a whole stack of PADDs was a singularly stupid thing to do, Kincaid wasn't quite sure what to Do.

Only three people had made any attempts to show up at her office, and only one assessment had been completed so far. She might just have to activate her Anti-AntiCounsellor Memo Subroutine.

She looked through Ensign Floyd's profile, made some notations, and scheduled an appointment. She sent him a short note acknowledging his memo and looked through her schedule.

Nothing ground-shaking, except for the departmental meeting later.

She watched the interaction between the Klingon captain and Chod, and settled into her seat.

It was too bad, she thought briefly, that she wasn't Betazoid; it would have been a lot more interesting if she were telepathic..

[T`Lura, heading to her office]

T`Lura entered sickbay, nodding to the MOs that were busy getting the area ready. She mentally noted their efficiency and walked on to her office. As she sat at her desk, she flicked the terminal on and read the list of crew that had completed their physical - almost all the senior staff. It probably helped that the Captain was the first to get his done, but there were a few that hadn't contacted medical to explain their delay. T`Lura decided to give them a little more time, as they may have had a lot to do to get the ship space ready. 

T`Lura then opened the first record and began reading the details, wanting to familiarize herself with the contents.

[standing in the back of the brigde, near the MSD]

Commander K'anis kept a diplomatic silence while Captain Chod made acquaintances with his Klingon counterpart from the bird-of-prey.

"So far, all follows the schedule", thought the Antican while Chod had the FCO follow the Klingon ship to their destination.

After the Captain expressed his concern regarding the Klingon's apparent overconfidence, K'anis spoke up. "I must agrre, Captain. It will be of no use to be cautch off guarrd."

Turnig to the newly assigned CSO, K'anis continued. "Mrr. Floyd, compile all astrrometrric data we have on the sectorr we arre headed forr.", and lastly, the Antican faced the Tactical station. "Mrr. Mazerr, have you and yourr team familiarized with the specs of the freighters we arre to battle with - both the original and the uprated ones - as well as the Klingon BOP, just to be on the safe side"

K'anis then turned to his Captain, for his approval.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

As the Akira Class Broadsword followed after the Bird of Prey, Mazer monitored his long range and short range tactical sensors for anything amiss. It wasn't that he didn't trust the Klingons. They were, after all, their allies ... who had grown to respect Starfleet after the brutal and bloody Dominion War. However, all that talk a while about about the Klingons and their Prophecy of Blood [although he wasn't sure what THAT was all about] made him slightly nervous. As did all prophecies.

So, for the time being, he would monitor his sensors for anything abnormal ... although eagerly awaiting what was to come ahead.

[On Bridge.]

After a short trip, both ships enter the Morrak system. Not that it is much of a system. A small White Dwarf orbited by a sparse asteroid field. Signs of mining of the asteroids, including a few ships actively mining on the far side of the system, are the only signs that this system is even known to rest of the Galaxy.

Near to the point the two ships exit Warp is a small debris field. From within is an automated message, inquiring as to the identity of the vessels. Once the Broadsword and the Wa'Dich identify themselves, the automated message begins.

"Greetings Captains, and welcome to the start of the Wargames. Before you is your first "clue", the remains of a freighter. Within it are modified probes, programmed to respond to sensor scans to present the information you would receive if the situation was real."

Within each sensor Window on the Bridge, a secondary Window opens to present the information for the Wargames.

Standing from his seat and moving to the Science console, Chod smiles. "Well, it looks like they have presented us with a chase. Lets see if we can find who attacked the freighter."

[On the upper level of the Bridge]

After deciphering the first 'clue' from the debries field, the Broadsword is left to the hunt.

Hunting was K'anis field of expertise. As it was to all Anticans. He was eager to get down to action.

"Captain, I suggest take the ship to Yellow Alerrt as we prresently do not have all the inforrmation available on this scenarrio. It's wise to be on the safe side until we know morre on the enemy", the executive officer proposed.

After Chod's comments, K'anis approaches the Ferengi inquiring him in private. "What about the Klingons, sir? Do you plan on coordinating all our efforts with the WaDich or shall we operate in a more independently way?"

[At the helm]

After listening to the automated communique, Simon watched as the flight data flashed across his console. He began quickly integrating it into his flight patterns, taking in course and trajectory.

"Sir," he said, talking to either K'anis or Chod, "i'm receiving flight telemetry from one of the probes."

[At the helm]

After studying the data for a few moments longer, he realised what he was looking at.

"Correction, sir. I'm actually recieving old flight data from the debris, it's forecasted trajectory and flight co-ordinates."

[On Bridge, at Science station.]

"That would be a wise precaution, Commander. Lieutenant Mazer, Yellow Alert." Chod answers. "As for the Klingon's, we're going to work with them. It will be good for our alliance, and may teach us a few new ideas on how to carry things out. Start coordinating our search with them. Ensign Phillips, lay in a course to follow the indicated trail. Have it prepared as soon as our scans are finished."

[On the Bridge at Tactical Station Two]

Blaine listens as the automated message describes the debris field and the probes within. She taps her console scanning the debris, looking for indications of weapons traces on the remains of the freighter's hull. 

The numbers scroll quickly on her display terminal as the computer begins analyzing the information sent to the tactical sensors from the probes.
She begins studying the readouts as she waits for Lt. Mazer to give her his instructions.

This reminds her of the simulations she went through in the Academy holodecks only this time she is on a real ship, out in space with a Klingon Bird of Prey flanking the Broadsword. "It's just a wargame, it isn't real,” she thinks to herself, as she feels a bit tense.

Her attention is suddenly directed at her console as the computer signals it has found weapon signatures on the hull fragments. Tapping her console redirecting the sensors to a small area of the debris field, she turns to Lt. Mazer at Tactical Station One and says, "Sir, the computer has located weapons traces on the hull fragments. Sending the coordinates to your console and attempting to identify."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical One]

While the Broadsword maneuvers, Ensign Blaine points out that she has detected trace weapon signatures nearby. The information soon scrolls across his console, with an additional list of known weapons signatures scrolling down on the other side ... attempting to match.

"Thank you, Ensign. Captain, I'm attempting to determine who fired the weapons in the region now," the CTO reports as he continues scrolling.

[on bridge at OPS station]

Wolfe sits at his station reviewing all the data that has been collected so far, hoping to find something "useful" in the bigger overall picture. While continuing to review the data, Wolfe completed a quick ops systems check to ensure peak performance. 

Letting his mind wonder for a movement, he thinks back to the exchange between Captain Chod and Da'Chak. They seemed friendly, but Wolfe could feel a small amount of tension between the two. But, on the other hand, perhaps that is normal between a Klingon and, well, anyone.

[T`Lura, just finishing reading the results of the crews' physicals]

T`Lura sat back in her chair, thinking about the crew. Most of the results were normal, as would be expected on a starship. However, one was distinctly 'abnormal.' With a quick decision, T`Lura stood, walked out of her office, and called MO Clark to her.

"Doctor," T`Lura began, "please have someone run a level 3 diagnostic on the brain wave scanner. I've just gone over the crews' physical results and I believe the scanner may have malfunctioned during one of the exams. Let me know when the diagnostic is finished. I'll be on the bridge."

"Yes, Doctor, we'll get right on it," replied Clark, as he quickly beckoned a technician over.

T`Lura didn't linger to hear Clark talk to the technician, but headed to the bridge. As she waited for the turbolift, her thoughts kept going back to the BW results. With a mental shake of her head, T`Lura entered the 'lift.

"Bridge."

[At the helm]

"Couse laid in, sir."

[T`Lura, entering the bridge]

T`Lura exits the turbolift just as Ens. Phillips finishes telling the captain the course was laid in. She takes a look around the bridge, watching the crew at work. She gazes a bit longer at the counselor than seemed necessary, her left eyebrow raising, as if in a question that only she heard, and then quietly strolls to her seat. She acknowledges the Captain with a guick "Sir" before sitting down.

[The Counsellor welcomes the Doctor to the Bridge]

Kincaid was enjoying the view outside when she noticed that the good Doctor had entered the Bridge, even though she didn't have eyes in the back of her head.

She turned around and saw that, indeed, Dr. T'Lura was around.

"Hello, Doctor!" she said, giving her a small smile.

[T`Lura, acknowledging the CNS]

"Counselor," T`Lura nods in acknowledgement of the greeting. "I see we are about to get underway."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical One]

His console finally gives up the requested data as the Intrepid Class vessel's sensor array finishes its scan of the region. As the data scrolls across his screen Mazer takes the time to memorize it for later use, while at the same time proceeding to inform those who need such knowledge.

"Captain, there seem to have been multiple weapons involved in action here ... phasers, disruptors, even an occasional photon blast. I am attempting to determine more specifics sir," he reports, returning to his work.

[On Bridge.]

"Thank you, Lieutenant Mazer. Seems the test is well planned out at least. If they are pirates, they should have a patchwork defense system. See if you can determine the amount of firepower they had available, so we can know what kind of a threat they are."

Turning to the Science Station, Chod comes to a realization. "Ensign Floyd, before we get too deep into the hunt, are there any life signs aboard those ships? On the simulated sensors, of course."

[On the back of the Bridge]

Agrees to the Captain's suggestion to keep in communication with the Klingons during the wargames.

"A wise decision, sirr. Even if they brrig us any trrouble we'd betterr have a close eye on them than letting them ran on the loose", said the XO.

"With your perrmission, I'll get down to Main Engineering forr an ... inspection"

After the captain's reply, the Antican moves into the turbolift, headed for M.E.

[Standing at tactical station two on the Bridge]

Blaine watches the monitor on her console as the computer scrolls several sets of long numbers, each representing elements of the weapons traces. She begins to feel a bit mezmerized by the scrolling numbers and finds her mind drifting off. Her eyelids begin to relax along with the rest of her body as she struggles inwardly to stay alert.

The sounds of the computer consoles on the Bridge and the crew calling out sensor readings to the Captain and XO begin to fade into the background.

She hears someone calling her name "Blaine? Hey Blaine, you there?" the voice says. "Blaine!" Startled, she jolts back to reality and shakes her head to clear it. "Yes, I'm here" she says softly as her head turns quickly from side to side, searching for who is talking to her. She turns a bit to look behind her at Lt. Mazer standing at tactical one, his head tilted downward staring at his console. She realizes the voice is coming from her COM badge. "Who is this?" she whispers. "It's me, JJ. Ensign Walker in Security, remember?" the voice says quietly. "What is it, Ensign?" she says. "You wanna meet me for dinner after your shift tonight?" he asks. "Dinner?" she says a bit shocked, her body tensing up. Just to shut him up she quickly states, "Okay, sure, sure. I'll meet you in the messhall right after my shift. Now leave me alone, we're about to start the wargames and I don't want Lt. Mazer to find out you're messaging me while I'm on duty. Blaine, out" "I'm going to kill that guy!" she thinks to herself.

Blaine quickly looks back at Lt. Mazer. "He doesn't seem to have heard the COM" she thinks to herself as her body relaxes a bit. She turns to her console and begins to watch the readouts again.

[Bridge, at OPS]

While in the middle of watching the rest of the bridge crew continue their duties, a warning light on Wolfe's panel begins to blink and a quiet chirp is emitted. John instantly looks down at his panel, and suddenly feels a tingling sensation normally associated with a rush of adrenalin.

“Captain… we’re receiving a distress call from the freighter Mithnak. The message indicated that they are located in the Richak system.”

[At the helm]

Immediately after Ens. Wolfe had spoken, the panel before Simon flashed impertinently. 

"Captain, the Klingon vessel has altered course, now bearing one-one-five mark zero-zero-three." Simon turned his head to look over at the Captain and his first officer. "They're headed for the Richak system, sir."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Noting the reports coming from operations and the conn., Mazer hears the beeping alert coming from his own console. On his screen, minute bursts are being recorded in a nearby star system ... Richak. A battle is in progress, he quickly realizes. Pushing sensors to their extent, with assistance from science, he attempts to determine what exactly is going on ... with little luck.

"Captain, there is a battle in progress within the Richak Star System. I cannot determine who is exactly fighting who ... but there are several small fighter craft involved. Permission to go to yellow alert, sir?" he inquires.

And then the silence before the storm begins.

[sitting, on the bridge]

T`Lura listens to all the reports coming in and taps a few times on her small console. At a response from CMO Clark, she turns to the captain.

"Sir, sickbay is ready for any casualties. With your permission, I will stay on the bridge for the time being."

T`Lura doesn't expect an immediate response from the captain, as he is busy listening to the incoming reports, and settles back to see who is involved in the fighting.

[On the bridge, near the turbolift]

K'anis stop dead in his tracks upon hearing the reports from OPS, FCO and Tactical. Seems his visit to Main Engineering will have to wait for now.

"Sirr, this is not accorrding to the warrgame profile we werre intended to follow, but the indications of battle are worth a closerr investigation. I'd suggest we proceed to the new coorrdinates", the Antican says.

K'anis walks to Mazer's side at Tactical. "Lieutenant, can you determine if the Klingon vessel will intercept the battle coorrdinates?"

[Moving to Tactical to see Lt. Mazer's findings.]

"I'd say this fits within the Wargames, Commander." Chod stops for a second to look at the sensor readings. "Looks like a pirate raid, and the weapons signatures are only registering on the game 'sensors'."

Turning to his Chief Tactical Officer he continues. "Lieutenant, make it Red, not Yellow Alert. We have a combat situation in a Wargame environment, I'd say Red Alert is not going overboard." 

"Ensign Phillips, make for the battle zone, assuming the Klingons are moving to get a jump on the fight, don't let them. Catch them and then maintain position 1500 M off their Port."

Before he continues, the Wa'Dich Hails the vessel.

"On screen."

Da'Chak appears on screen, almost smiling. "Well Captain, it looks like its begun. Don't fall to far behind, we'll try and save you some. If nothing else we'll let you pick the corpse. That's a Ferengi trait, right?" The last thing the crew see's is Da'Chak laughing as he cuts the comm signal.

"Well, it looks like the Klingon's don't think we can show them up. I think we can show them what we're made of, and they can hope for leftovers. Keep sharp, of course, but lets show 'em what we can do."

Chod returns to his chair and awaits the battle to come.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Jornas momentarily quirks his eyebrow at the Captain following the Klingon Commander's remarks ... slightly hoping he isn't letting emotions play a part in their response. Not that he, himself, wouldn't do something to shove those words down Da'Chak's throat. With a nod to the others, he presses the appropriate buttons at his console.

The result is almost instantaneous ... klaxons sound throughout the ship as the light fixtures go from their normal pleasant color to a bright flashing red. The already modified phaser arrays and torpedo tubes go into active status ... teams rushing to pull the appropriate cases from the racks. It was time to get "serious" ... or something along those lines.

"Red alert activated," Mazer announces ... as if he had to. It was obvious enough to the crew as it were. He muses to himself, "Lets show these Klingons what an Akira Class starship can do ..."

[T`Lura, in her CMO chair, on the bridge]

T`Lura takes in all the information from the various reports and turns to the TO. 

"Ensign Blaine, do you have any idea what species either combatant might be? Or the crew complement of the freighter?"

T`Lura’s fingers fly over her small console as she looks up information about the Richak system and raiders.

[At the Helm]

"Aye, sir. Going to full impulse." After a few moments of silence, Simon piped up again. "Sir, we've come up parallel to the Wa'Dich, and holding off her port bow as ordered, sir. The Broadsword won't have any trouble keeping up."

[On Bridge.]

As the Broadsword approaches the system, the vessels break off, obviously having detected the approaching vessels. They split into two directions, with 4 heading in one direction and the other 2 heading in the other. The Wa'Dich breaks its course and makes for the group of 4.

"Lieutenant Mazer, track both groups as long as possible. Counselor, lets see if we can figure out what they are doing. Doctor, once we get a casualty report from the freighter we'll know more about what we're in for. Commander K'anis, prepare an Away Team to lend assistance if the freighter requires it. This may be a hunting drill, but we still have to follow our rules. Ensign Wolfe, see if you can get in contact with the freighter, see if they require assistance. Also, open me a channel to the Wa'Dich. I don't like how they are running off like berserkers."

Waiting for the Channel to open, Chod watches the course of the hostile vessels. Why split up? 

As the Channel opens, Chod addresses the Klingons. "Captain, this is supposed to be a joint drill. Our first task is to ensure the safety of those aboard the Freighter. Those ships can only make Warp 6, so they won't get far."

Da'Chak appears annoyed at the interruption. "You may consider helping the freighter to be the chief priority, but it is not mine. Follow when you have satisfied your need to coddle. Qapla, Federation." Da'Chak's voice is dripping with sarcasm.

"OK, add to our 'to do' list keeping an eye on our allies. Lets look sharp, I don't want to loose them, but we need to see if they need help."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

After noting the reports spouted off from other personnel on the bridge, Mazer nods at the Captain's order and begins to track the two groups of vessels as they move off. The Klingons are their typical arrogant selves, wishing to go straight for the "attackers" and leaving the rescuing to the Starfleet crew. 

All in all, Jornas doesn't mind this. While he is prepared to go into "battle," he'd much prefer rescuing people ... it makes him feel much better to save a life than to take one. An irony to be honest ... a Tactical Officer with morals. "Well," he thinks to himself. "No one ever said that Starfleet was out here to slaughter the space lanes." Putting his thoughts aside, he keeps with the task at hand. 

On his sensor read out, he monitors the departing vessels ... wondering who exactly they were. Coordinating with science, he attempts to "reach out" and find out whom they were dealing with. Unless of course the Klingons beat him to it.

[On the Bridge, standing near the MSD]

Commander K'anis hears Captain Chod's orders to prepare a rescue mission and simply nods in agreement.

"Verry well, Captain. Mrr. Angel, Mrr. Blaine, you keep on stand by if the frreighter requirres assistance. You shall meet with me on Transporrter Room #1", K'anis says to the CSO and TO and then turns to the CMO. "Dr. T'lurra, if therre's need of such please assign a couple of medical officerrs to the the away team. If you wish, you could come along yourself"

In other times, K'anis would have argued in defense of the Klingon captain, that they should first do the hunting of the perpetrator and not bother with 'rescue' missions.

But those were times gone. Far away in the past, even before his 'delaythful' assignment to the Rura Penthe penal colony. Now, he liked to think of himself as a better Antican.

The hunt for survivors, now he admitted, had its own honor. With that, K'anis excused himself and headed for the turbolift.

"Captain, I shall be in the Engineerring Room to overrsee operations from therre.", the large furry officer said before entering.

[On the Bridge at tactical station two]

Blaine turns to look at Doctor T'Lura as she hears the Doctor ask her a question "Ensign Blaine, do you have any idea what species either combatant might be? Or the crew complement of the freighter?" 

"The computer is still trying to identify the vessels, Doctor and I have not yet identified the species involved, however sensors are detecting approximately 69 bio signatures aboard the freighter."

Just then she hears her name again, this time it is Commander K'anis, "Mrr. Angel, Mrr. Blaine, you keep on stand by if the frreighter requirres assistance. You shall meet with me on Transporrter Room #1." "Aye, Sir" she replies. Blaine motions a relief officer to her station then turns, quickly entering the turbolift. "Transporter room one" she commands as the turbolift doors slide closed.

She tugs her uniform and stands a bit nervously as this is her first away mission since coming aboard the Broadsword. Even though she knows the rescue mission is only an exercise, she still feels a certain amount of excitement and anticipation.

[Exiting the turbolift]

Blaine exits the turbolift and walks a short distance to Transporter Room One and enters immediately heading for a wall locker and tapping in her security code. She extracts a hand phaser, checks the setting then slides it into her holster, checking to see it is seated properly in place. She then reaches in and takes a tricorder, flipping it open to check the activation. Satisfied it is working properly she flips it shut and places it in her belt. She closes the locker and makes sure it is secure then waits for the rest of the Away Team to arrive.

[Walks into Main Engineering]

Surely there could be no more agitated place as any starship's Engineering room.

As the large furry Executive Officer entered Broadsword's M.E. he witnessed officers of various ranks going from one station to the other, reading reports and making necessary adjustments for the ship's optimal performance. K'anis felt satisfied that the team had gotten together as a coherent unit in such a short time.

Most certainly due Regin and B'Renak, former and current CEOs, diligent work. K'anis hoped Lt. Regin was doing fine in his new assignment at Starfleet Corps of Engineers. B'Renak on the other hand was a quick learner, the Antican had already noticed.

Speaking of which, K'anis held out a clawed hand to a passing Bolian ensign, whom stopped dead in her tracks as if the Antican was to slice and dice her down. "Humanoids", K'anis sighed but dismissed the thought as he grew accustomed to people reactions to his visage.

"W-what can I do for you sir?", the Bolian girl replied composing herself as best as she could.

"Ensign, wherre's CEO B'Rrenak?", K'anis asked bluntly - his usual manner.

"I'll get her down here ASAP, sir", the Bolian said as she flashed away, around a corner.

{If the ensign finds the CEO and brings her to K'anis for a ritual sacrifice... er, I mean for a status report}

"Ah, Chief. You seem to be doing a good worrk down herre. Expect some upcoming action real soon. How's the Broadsword's status if we were to engage the pirates in battle?", asks the commander.

After B'Renaks reply, K'anis nods satisfied. "Verry well, Chief. Have a damage control team ready in case the freighter we are rescuing is salvageable".

With that the Antican leaves M.E., headed for Transporter Room #1.

{If the CEO is nowhere to be found}

The ensign returns with an apologetic look in her face. "Sorry, commander. I could not find the Chief. I'm sure she might be deep down inside one of the Jefferies tubes overseeing repairs..."

"Well...than yourself is to come up with a status report to be delivered to the Captain in half an hour. Have a Damage Control team ready if we find out the freighter needs repairs."

K'anis turns on his heels and walks out of Main Engineering

[Standing impatiently in Transporter Room One]

Blaine crosses her arms across her chest as she waits for the rest of the Away Team to arrive. The Transporter Chief glances her way every few minutes and notices she is growing impatient with each minute that passes.

“First time on Away Team Duty, Ensign? he asks. “Yes, is it that obvious?” she replies with a smile. “I’ve seen the signs several times before on my previous posts” he says with a chuckle. “I wonder what is taking the rest of the team so long to get here?” she asks as if he would know. “Oh, they’ll be along any minute, that you can be sure of” he replies. “I hope so, this waiting is getting to me,” she says as she uncrosses her arms and begins pacing in front of the transporter pad.

“You must be Ensign Blaine,” he states. “Yes, how did you know that? She asks as she stops pacing, looking to the Chief. “Ensign Walker was in here earlier and said….” Blaine quickly raises her hand to interrupt him, “Please, Chief, say no more! I don’t want to hear what Ensign Walker said!” she says with an obvious irritation in her tone. 

The Transporter Chief resumes his work at the transporter console and says nothing more, after all, she is a female and she is armed and he knows from past experience it would not be a good thing to get her upset.

[T`Lura, on the bridge]

“Doctor, once we get a casualty report from the freighter we'll know more about what we're in for.”

T`Lura nods in response to the Captain and listens to the rest of his orders. She starts to comm. sickbay when she hears the XO address her.

"Dr. T'lurra, if therre's need of such please assign a couple of medical officerrs to the the away team. If you wish, you could come along yourself.”

She turns to the XO to reply, “Aye, sir, we will be ready. And I will head the medical team, sir.”

Instead of comming sickbay, T`Lura rises from her seat and turns to the Captain. “Sir, with your permission, I will be in sickbay, getting prepared for the away team.”

[Entering TR#1]

After checking out Main Engineering, Cmdr. K'anis made his way to the transporter room and the away team operation.

As he entered, his Antican senses told him there was something up between the TR operator and Blaine. Nonetheless, he declined to comment and went straigth to the point.

"Ensign Blaine, therre has been a small change. Drr. T'Lurra will be accompanying us in the rescue operration instead of Mrr. Angel, who's needed on the bridge. I take you had everrrything else ready?", the Antican asked.

K'anis nods at her prompt reply and reaches for his badge. "Captain, this is K'anis, the away team will be rready to go as soon as Drr. T'Lurra and herr technicians get herre"

The Antican wait, eager for the hunt to begin.

[Over the COMM system]

"Captain, this is K'anis, the away team will be rready to go as soon as Drr. T'Lurra and herr technicians get herre"

[Pacing in front of the transporter pad in Transporter Room One]

Blaine hears the familiar "swissh" of the transporter room doors and turns quickly to see Commander Kanis enter. "Commander" she acknowledges.

"Ensign Blaine, therre has been a small change. Drr. T'Lurra will be
accompanying us in the rescue operration instead of Mrr. Angel, who's
needed on the bridge. I take you had everrrything else ready?", the Antican
asked.

"Aye, Sir." she states as she hands him a hand phaser and tricorder then steps onto the transporter pad. She instinctively checks her phaser settings again while they wait for the Doctor and her medical team to arrive. "Sir, do you have any further information of what we might find when we transport over?"

[Pacing in front of the transporter pad in Transporter Room One]

Blaine hears the familiar "swissh" of the transporter room doors and turns quickly to see Commander Kanis enter. "Commander" she acknowledges.

"Ensign Blaine, therre has been a small change. Drr. T'Lurra will be
accompanying us in the rescue operration instead of Mrr. Angel, who's
needed on the bridge. I take you had everrrything else ready?", the Antican
asked.

"Aye, Sir." she states as she hands him a hand phaser and tricorder then steps onto the transporter pad. She instinctively checks her phaser settings again while they wait for the Doctor and her medical team to arrive. "Sir, do you have any further information of what we might find when we transport over?"

[On Bridge.]

"Of course Doctor, I'll let you and the rest of the team know as soon as we learn anything new."

The view screen is unusual to look at. Sensors are reading the vessel as heavily damaged, unable to go to Warp. Multiple Hull breaches from numerous weapon hits are registered. Yet the visual display shows what there is in "reality". A well maintained Freighter with barely a scratch from the minimized weapons strikes of the simulated battle.

A message is coming in from the freighter, and Chod places it on speakers as it is audio only. "Incoming Starship, this is First Officer Jameel of the Freighter Sublte Wind. We have been attacked by pirates, engines down, along with most of our systems. Life support is stable on our backup generators. Our crews can handle the damage on our own, but we have 23 injured crew, including our Doctor. Please, we need your assistance."

"We have a crew preparing to beam over, Jameel. They will arrive shortly. We will enter transporter range in 2 minutes. Hold on, we're coming." As the channel closes Chod relays the information to Commander K'anis and his team. "Commander, we have received word from the freighter. They have 23 injured in need of assistance, including their doctor. They say they have the repairs under control, but lets see what we can do while their injured are treated. I'll inform you as soon as we enter Transporter range."

"Mr. Mazer, I just want to double check that the area is secure before we lower our shields and put our crew over onto that freighter. Lets make sure everything is as it seems, shall we? Mr. Angel, cross check your readings with Tactical. Just confirm that our systems are working properly."

[Over Comm System from Bridge.]

Captain Chod relays the latest information from the Bridge to the Away Team. "Commander, we have received word from the freighter. They have 23 injured in need of assistance, including their doctor. They say they have the repairs under control, but lets see what we can do while their injured are treated. I'll inform you as soon as we enter Transporter range."

[On TR#1]

After receiving Chod's comm, K'anis turns to Blaine. "Looks like we both got answerred, Ensign. Drr. T'Lurra will get her team to tend to the wounded."

K'anis goes to the locker and suits himself a phaser rifle. "Yourself and I will do an 'in locco' assesment of the freighter's situation. After that, we play it by ear", he adds - glad that the Captain was not around to hear it.

The Antican prepares himself as he waits for the hunt.

[Lawrence makes some psychobabbly... er, I mean, Professionally-Oriented... remarks]

While everyone else was busy bustling about, Lawrence was busy thinking about the Psychology of Simulated Pirates.

That wasn't as difficult as figuring out the Psychology of Real Pirates, actually, since simulated pirates, by definition, had some laws of behaviour programmed into them.

"Captain," she said, when he seemed to have a bit of time, "I believe that there are several possible reasons for the hostiles' intentions. Perhaps they were counting on our ship and the Klingons' splitting up after their vessels. Since Klingons will fight to the death, and will fight only an honourable battle, perhaps the hostiles decided to bet that heading off with four vessels would draw the Klingons. Depending on their capabilities, the hostiles may be able to outgun us with just two of their vessels. Then they'd have both a Federation and a Klingon ship to plunder... and not just the freighter. Perhaps," Lawrence surmised, jumping out on a limb, "they raided the freighter to lure us close."

She scrunched up her face, deep in thought; an idea had crossed her mind for a moment, but it had disappeared almost as soon as it had arrived...

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Listening to the report from the first officer of the "attacked" freighter, Mazer is already working with science to confirm or deny the report. As the sensors have been modified for the training simulation at hand, they do confirm the report. Soon enough, the small Commanding Officer of the Broadsword turns to Mazer and orders yet another scan of the area. The pirates of the simulation may very well be brazen, and attempt to launch an assault on the Starfleet cruiser coming to the freighter's rescue.

In truth, these days, pirates [unless they had something REALLY good to use, or were just plain crazy] would high tail it to safety. Piracy was an ancient practice amongst the space lanes. Generally one would find it coming from individuals from races which did not benefit from the lack of poverty or equality in the United Federation of Planets, such as the Orions [the infamous Orion Pirates practically were the only ones OUT there during the 23rd Century] or the Nausicaans. Once in a while, one would encounter an actual human or Andorian performing such acts. Usually, those involved were actually just out for the adventure ... and not the prize.

The 23rd Century's Orion Pirates would later evolve into the uniquely dangerous Orion Syndicate of the 24th Century, which operates their own smuggling rings [without the bravado & "romance" of vessel raids] out of Rigel IV. Piracy would die off a good percentage in the early 24th Century with the generally changing of pace with the Orions, and the ending of cold war hostilities between the Federation and the Klingons [which had provided a seemingly endless line of supply freighters moving to Federation outposts along the secondary neutral zone in case war ever broke out]. 

It would not be until the latter portion of the 24th Century that the threat of piracy would rear its ugly head again. The breaking out of the Dominion War called for greater use of freighter supply routes [and eventual use of civilian freighter routes of those friendly alien nations to the Federation during the darker days of Starfleet's war against the Jem'Hadar], and as such, opportunities arose for piracy. Pirates, in this day and age of more advanced defensive measures [Starfleet had indeed risen to become a mighty offensive starship power], had to be even more cunning and dangerous than before. 

The case of the "Knights of Archon" comes to mind in which a band of pirates managed to so well train themselves and gather enough resources that they actually became a tactical threat to Starfleet in the war rather than an annoyance. It actually later turned out that the KoA were being backed, somewhat, by the Dominion itself to disrupt supply routes. Starfleet was forced to come after piracy in it's entirety in force ... in order to protect supplies needed to hold off the Jem'Hadar. With the war's conclusion, more forces were dedicated to the downplay of piracy ... and indeed, pirates everywhere began to either disappear on their own, or were arrested & tried for their crimes.

"Those pirates that are left out there would probably not choose to engage us," Mazer muses to himself as he begins scanning the area one last time.

[T`Lura, getting supplies for the AT]

As T`Lura walks through the door, MO Clark greets her.

"Doctor, I have everything you requested. Since we aren't sure of exactly who is on the freighter, I've added a few items. They may come in handy. Nurse Gable and Technician Lombard are ready to join you,” Clark nods in their direction. 

T`Lura glances in that direction, nods in response, and turns back to Clark, “Excellent, Doctor. Please be prepared for incoming wounded. At this time, we have no estimate of casualties or type of injuries.” T`Lura takes the medkit Clark hands her, “I will contact you as soon as I know more information.”

“Nurse Gable, Technician Lombard.” With that short greeting, T`Lura turns, exits sickbay, and heads for transporter room one at a quick pace.
[T`Lura, entering TR1] 

The doors 'swish' open as T`Lura steps close to them. As she enters the room, she finds the XO and Ens. Blaine already there. 

"Sir," she nods to the XO, "I hope we have not kept you waiting. My team is ready, but I am aware only that 69 personnel are on board. If you have more information, such as race, number of casualties, or types of injuries, that would be most helpful." 

T`Lura motions to Gable and Lombard to step up to the transporter padd, then follows them.

[Standing on the transporter pad]

Blaine holsters her phaser just as Doctor T'Lura and her medical team arrive in the transporter room. She nods to the Doctor as she takes her place on the transporter pad. 

Blaine turns to face the transporter Chief, firmly sets her feet approximately 16 inches apart and clasps her hands behind her back, waiting for Commander K'anis to give the word to "Energize."

[In center seat on Bridge.]

As the Broadsword approaches the freighter, Chod nods to the situation reports coming in. "Ensign Phillips, take us into position and hold 1000 Meters off their hull. Keep your eyes open Lieutenant Mazer, we're about to Transport."

"Captain Chod to Commander K'anis, we are within range of the freighter. You can energize when ready. Keep us informed of your progress."

"Now," Chod says to himself, "where are our targets headed?"

[Waiting for the 'go ahead]

K'anis stood near the transporter controls talking with the ensign there.

At that point everything sped up. A couple of engineering officers reported and took their places behind Blaine. Tagging along, reported Dr. T'Lura and her team.

"The only news, Doctorr, are that they reporrted some 23 injured in various degrees including theirr own medical crew. You know what to do with them, ensign, but I'd suggest you only beam over those critically injurred under the current circumstances", the Antican informed the Vulcan CMO.

"You", he addressed the engineers. "Priorities are life support, shield and propulsion"

"Blaine, you and I will do a throughout search of the freighter", he finished.

The COMM comes to life and Captain Chod informs they are good to go. Adrenaline - or the Antican equivalent - fills K'anis bloodstream in anticipation. He takes his place on the pad and orders the transporter operator.

"EneRRgize"

[Standing on the transporter pad in Tansporter Room One]

Blaine looks on quietly as the engineering officers step up onto the transporter pad. She listens while Commander K’anis gives them their orders, "You", he addressed the engineers. "Priorities are life support, shield and propulsion. "Blaine, you and I will do a throughout search of the freighter", he finished. Blaine nods, “Aye, Sir” then turns back to face the transporter Chief.

The Away team hears the COM come through from Captain Chod, informing them it is time to transport. Commander K’anis turns and orders, “EneRRgize” 

The familiar “whirling” sound and the shimmering effects of the transporter initiates as the Away Team dematerializes from the Broadsword.

[Rematerializing on the freighter]

The Away Team rematerializes on the transporter pad of the damaged freighter. The transporter area opens onto the Bridge, almost like a small alcove set at the rear of the Bridge.

Blaine stands firmly next to Commander K’anis with the rest of the team standing behind them, waiting for the Commander to open a dialog with a representative of the freighter’s command staff and to give the orders to disburse.

[At the helm, responding to Cpt. Chods commands]

"Aye, sir."

[After a moments maneuvring ...... ]

"The Broadsword is now holding 1000 metres from the frieghter, sir."

[T`Lura, on the freighter's transporter pad] 

As T`Lura materializes onto the freighter, she does a bioscan. 65 lifesigns – mostly human, but also one Vulcan and a Bajoran. Looking up from her tricorder, T`Lura realizes the transporter pad is on the bridge. She takes a quick look around, noting that two bridge personnel seemed to be nursing injuries, but neither overtly serious. With a short nod to Gable, she sends him off to see to the two injured. She then waits to be directed to sickbay, where presumably the remaining injured are located.

[On Freighter Bridge, meeting the away team.]

"Ah, welcome aboard and thank you for your speedy assistance." The short, stocky human appears bored and unhappy with this job. "Our damage is mostly to our engines, but our crew is working on them now. Our biggest problem are the injuries to the crew, especially our Doctor. He's in Sickbay right now, got caught in a plasma explosion when the engines went out. Commander, can I get you a drink while you "debrief me"? I have some wonderful chilled brandy ready if you would like." The man finally cracked a smile at the thought of the brandy, and already was moving towards the refrigeration unit at the front of the Bridge.

[Materializes on the Freighter]

Commander K'anis is greeted by a stocky Human, the commanding officer of the 'damaged' freighter as soon as the ACB releases him.

"This is our job, no need for thanks", K'anis returns the compliments and continues to listen. When the Human mentions the engines, the Antican simply nods with his head to the two crewmembers from the Broadsword's engineering dept, whom left immediately.

"Captain, this is our CMO Dr. T'Lura. I'm sure she's more than capable to lend the necessary aid", K'anis says indicating the Vulcan officer by his side. "Doctor, feel free to proceed. Whenever you have an assesment of the situation and time permits I'd like a report"

The captain offers K'anis some Human drink, but it's not likely the Antican and alcohol with be a good mix. He declines politely. "Thank you very much, Captain. But I'd rather move on with protocol at this point.", then he turns to the TO on his other side. "Blaine, let's perform a throughout review of their 'sensor logs'. They can reveal important information about the pirates"

And they go about their business.

[Materializes on the Freighter]

Commander K'anis is greeted by a stocky Human, the commanding officer of the 'damaged' freighter as soon as the ACB releases him.

"This is our job, no need for thanks", K'anis returns the compliments and continues to listen. When the Human mentions the engines, the Antican simply nods with his head to the two crewmembers from the Broadsword's engineering dept, whom left immediately.

"Captain, this is our CMO Dr. T'Lura. I'm sure she's more than capable to lend the necessary aid", K'anis says indicating the Vulcan officer by his side. "Doctor, feel free to proceed. Whenever you have an assesment of the situation and time permits I'd like a report"

The captain offers K'anis some Human drink, but it's not likely the Antican and alcohol with be a good mix. He declines politely. "Thank you very much, Captain. But I'd rather move on with protocol at this point.", then he turns to the TO on his other side. "Blaine, let's perform a throughout review of their 'sensor logs'. They can reveal important information about the pirates"

And they go about their business.

[T`Lura, on the freighter bridge]

T`Lura raised an eyebrow as the freighter captain offered the XO a beverage. It seemed a strange time to worry about pleasantries. People were injured, the ship was in need of repair, and pirates may or may not still be in the area. As Commander K’anis introduced her, T`Lura bowed her head toward the freighter captain. As she was about to respond to the XO, Gable spoke.

“Doctor, these two have only minor injuries – some scrapes and bruises. We’ve patched them up and are ready to assist with the rest. This one,” Gable pointed to a young man, “says he’ll take us to their sickbay equivalent.”

“Very good, Mr. Gable. We are ready to proceed.” T`Lura turned back to the XO. “Sir, I will report in as soon as I know the extent of injuries.” With that, T`Lura followed the freighter crewmember, Gable, and Lombard off the bridge.

[On Freighter Bridge.]

"Oh, if you insist, I suppose we can play out our task. Pity, this was good drink. A side bonus of carrying liquer I suppose. Now, our 'sensors' detected the raiders coming in hot and fast. We raised shields, but they weren't strong enough." The man stops with his report long enough to pick up a small snack. "Pretzel? Something without alchohol to drink perhaps? Oh well, where were we? Yes, our shields failed after their attacks, although we managed to hit one, she was leaking plasma as she left, so at least we made them pay. Still, with 6 of them and only one of us, it didn't last long. Feel free to take a look at our logs, its all here."

As the Captain pushes a button on his console, the sensor readings appear on a work station just off to the side of the Bridge. As he reported, there were 6 ships attacking. The one that was damaged left with another while the remaining 4 left together. The Plasma trail is not great and shouldn't cause them any serious problems...except their ability to blend into normal space traffic.
The Weapons used by the attackers are of various sorts, each set to approximately a Type VIII Phaser in terms of power output. Each vessel had between 2 and 4 of these Phasers, and sensor readings indicate the presence of torpedo launchers on two of the vessels, although scans do not show if they are loaded or empty.

[On the freighter Bridge]

Blaine moves to a console and begins reading over the sensor logs and begins her report to Commander K'anis, “Sir, according to the sensor logs, six ships attacked the freighter. The freighter managed to damage one vessel, which managed to escape the area with one of the five remaining vessels. The remaining four vessels then fled in the opposite direction when the Wa’Dich and Broadsword moved in. The damage vessel is venting plasma. Although trail is weak it should be enough to allow us to pursue." 

“Scans of the weapons signatures indicate various weapon types were used in the attack, however all weapons had power output equal to a Type VIII phaser. In addition each vessel was equipped with 2-4 of these weapons arrays and there are indications of torpedo launchers on at least two of the vessels although scans are not clear on whether or not the launchers were armed. I would like to verify this information with the Broadsword’s sensor logs, Sir.” Blaine pulls her tricorder from her belt and begins downloading the information for later analysis.

[On the Freighter]

Commander K'anis hears both the reports of the freighter captain and Ensign Blaine about the pirates.

"Ion trrail, good", he says more to himself. A trail leading them straight to their prey. But there are other subjects to address. "Blaine, contact the captain and inform him of the situation. If he so wishes, there's a way to pursue the rest of the pirates. Also, download the freighter's logs to the Broadsword", he asks the Tactical Officer.

He taps his communicator after some deliberation. "Ensign Stark, what's the engines status?", the Antican asks one of the engineers that came with them.

"Well, commander, the status is pretty grim. There has been an overload and most EPS conduits were blown.", replies Stark.

"There's supply station in the nearby star system. Do you think you could put together enough warp power for the freighter to reach it?", K'anis inquires.

"Give me 30 minutes and I'll get you a clearer profile, sir", Stark states.

"Execute then, ensign. K'anis out", changing the frequency K'anis reaches for the other members of the away team. "Drr. T'Lurra, what's the situation with the injured?"

[T`Lura, in the freighter's sickbay]

T`Lura arrives in sickbay and quickly takes an assessment. There seem to be about 15 or 20 injured, with one person moving from bed to bed attending them. T`Lura walks to him. 

"Excuse me. I am Doctor T`Lura, of the USS Broadsword. My team," she nods in the direction of Gable and Lombard, "are ready to assist you. Are you the ship's doctor?" T`Lura doubted this, noting his youth, but sees no one else tending the wounded.

The young man blushes as he looks at T`Lura, then lowers his eyes to the floor. "No, ma'am, I'm not the doctor. I'm the cook. He's the doctor," he says as he points to an older man lying on a bed. "He was burned while tending the injured in the engine room. I've tried to do the best I could, with the doctor calling out directions."

T`Lura's eyebrow raises at the last, looking towards the doctor, who is definitely unconscious. Noting her look, the young man stammers an explanation. "He just passed out, ma'am. I think it was taking all his strength to guide me, and he just passed out."

"I am not finding fault with you, Mr ..." T`Lura trails off.

[Standing on the Bridge of the freighter near the Captain's console] 

Blaine has already begun downloading the freighter's sensor logs into her tricorder when she hears Commander K'anis speaking to her, "Blaine, contact the Captain and inform him of the situation. If he so wishes, there's a way to pursue the rest of the pirates. Also, download the freighter's logs to the Broadsword" 

"Aye, Sir" she replies as she taps her COM badge, "Blaine to Captain Chod. Sir, according to the freighter's sensor logs, six ships attacked the freighter. The freighter managed to damage one vessel, which managed to escape the area with one of the five remaining vessels. The remaining four vessels then fled in the opposite direction when the Wa’Dich and Broadsword moved in. The damaged vessel is venting plasma. Although trail is weak it should be enough to allow us to pursue. Scans of the weapons signatures indicate various weapon types were used in the attack, however all weapons had power output equal to a Type VIII phaser. In addition each vessel was equipped with 2-4 of these weapons arrays and there are indications of torpedo launchers on at least two of the vessels although scans are not clear on whether or not the launchers were armed. Stand by to receive the freighter's sensor logs" Blaine taps the control console establishing a connection to the Broadsword's computer and begins transmitting the sensor data. 

"Doctor T'Lura reports 15-20 personnel injured including the freighter's Doctor who was burned when the engines went down. The Doctor and her medical team are in Sickbay treating the injured. Engineering teams are reporting major damage to the EPS conduits and are requesting an additional 30 minutes to give a more accurate time estimate for repairs." 

Blaine waits for a response from Captain Chod.

[From Broadsword, over the Comm System.]

Chod's voice replies over the Comm Badge. "Very good, Ensign. See what you can get repaired over there in the next 30 minutes, and then we'll see if we can resume pursuit. The farther they get the harder it will be to track them. Once the vessel is secure enough to make it back to port, we need you all back here."

[On Bridge, looking over the Science sensors.]

While looking over the sensors, trying to keep a lock on the fleeing vessels, Chod hears a report coming over the Comm System.

"Blaine to Captain Chod. Sir, according to the freighter's sensor logs, six ships attacked the freighter. The freighter managed to damage one vessel, which managed to escape the area with one of the five remaining vessels. The remaining four vessels then fled in the opposite direction when the Wa’Dich and Broadsword moved in. The damaged vessel is venting plasma. Although trail is weak it should be enough to allow us to pursue. Scans of the weapons signatures indicate various weapon types were used in the attack, however all weapons had power output equal to a Type VIII phaser. In addition each vessel was equipped with 2-4 of these weapons arrays and there are indications of torpedo launchers on at least two of the vessels although scans are not clear on whether or not the launchers were armed. Stand by to receive the freighter's sensor logs" 

Turning to look at the view screen (more out of habit than for any real need), Chod answers Ensign Blaine. "Very good, Ensign. See what you can get repaired over there in the next 30 minutes, and then we'll see if we can resume pursuit. The farther they get the harder it will be to track them. Once the vessel is secure enough to make it back to port, we need you all back here."

Turning back to the Science Console, Chod notices something strange. While they are getting further away, the fleeing vessels are still within Long Range Sensor range. Their course is appearing to change, however. They appear to be coming back together.

"Lieutenant Mazer, it appears the ships are coming back together. I think our Klingon friends may be falling into a trap. Do you think the ship's that hit the freighter are a threat to the Klingon Bird of Prey? Keep the ship ready, as soon as the freighter is able to resume its course, we are going after them. I just hope the Klingon's are still there."

"Ensign Wolfe, see if you can raise the Wa'Dich. They don't seem willing to listen, but we should at least try and warn them the ships are coming back together."

[On the freighter Bridge]

The response from Captain Chod is clearly heard "Very good, Ensign. See what you can get repaired over there in the next 30 minutes, and then we'll see if we can resume pursuit. The farther they get the harder it will be to track them. Once the vessel is secure enough to make it back to port, we need you all back here." "Acknowledged, Blaine, out" she confirms.

Turning to Commander K'anis, "Sir, the Captain has given us 30 minutes to get this vessel repaired good enough to get it back to port. He is concerned the plasma trail will degrade making pursuit impossible. We are to transport back to the Broadsword as soon as repairs are completed."

Blaine waits for Commander K'anis' response.

[On the Freighter's Bridge]

K'anis had his large self bent over the main control panel on the freighter bridge, studing the logs a bit more when a blue light blinked. He hit the button to open the link to Engineering.

"sir, Stark here. Tony and I have some news. We've found enough spare parts down here that we think we can put together in a makeshift warpcore and get the freighter up and running again", said the engineer over the intercomm.

"Verry good worrk, Mrr. Starrk. Execute immediately", the Antican replied with true satisfaction. He also noticed Blaine finishing her talk with Chod and the TO turned on him to relay the message.

"30 mins...fading warp trail....", K'anis was attacking the problem at hand from all sides in hopes of find the best way out and back into the hunting.

K'anis touches his commbadge, linking with both the Engineers and Dr. T'Lura. "Dr. T'Lurra, have the worse injurred crew beamed aboard the Broadsword, we are on a hurrry. Mrrr. Stark, you and Tony will remain on the frreighter to complete repairs and take it to Outpost 199 distant 2 light-years from here. Carry on all"

"Blaine, prepare to beam back. We have some pirates to get", he smiles her a toothy smile.

[Standing on the frieghter Bridge]

Blaine looks to Commander K'anis as he gives orders to the away team members. "Blaine, prepare to beam back. We have some pirates to get" he says as he flashes a toothy smile. "Aye, Sir" she grins and replies as she taps her COM badge and begins checking in with her security officers. "All security teams report in" she states as she turns slightly, still keeping her eye on the XO.

Almost immediately comes the response "Alpha Team-Chang, checking in. All secure." "Beta Team-T'Rel, checking in, Sir, all is secure." "Very well, resume your stations and prepare for beam out in 30 mintues. Blaine, out"

[T`Lura, in the freighter’s sickbay]

T`Lura continues suturing her patient as she hears the comm from Commander K’anis. 

“Dr. T'Lurra, have the worse injurred crew beamed aboard the Broadsword, we are on a hurrry. Mrrr. Stark, you and Tony will remain on the frreighter to complete repairs and take it to Outpost 199 distant 2 light-years from here. Carry on all.”

With a nod to Technician Lombard, who immediately recognizes that T`Lura wants her to finish closing, T`Lura steps back from the operating table. 

“Commander K’anis, how much time do we have? At present, we have 17 patients, one seriously wounded and 8 moderately wounded, including the freighter’s doctor. If we do not have enough time to treat those 9 properly, I would like to transport them to the Broadsword. It will take approximately 15 minutes to get the wounded ready for transport. Also, Commander, I must report that 10 of the wounded were injured by what appears to be close-quarters combat – 5 were hit with stun beams, 4 were knocked over the head with phaser rifles, and 1 was stabbed with a blade. I was unaware the pirates had boarded the vessel, sir.”

[Standing on the freighter Bridge]

Blaine turns quickly when she hears the Doctor's report and immediately moves forward to the freighter Captain. "Excuse me, Captain but the logs made no mention of the pirates boarding your vessel. Would you care to explain?" 
Blaine looks at the freighter Captain suspiciously as he sips on a brandy.

[On his Bridge, "overseeing" repairs.]

"What's that, Ensign? Well it must have been a programming glitch. My orders were...Oh, wait, the script. Excuse me, forget what I just said."

The Captain turns around, takes another drink, and turns back to Ensign Blaine. "I can't say Ensign, although they did take some time playing around with the Computer. Maybe they were trying to cover their tracks?"

[On bridge, at his station]

Looking up from his console when he hears the Captain address him, Wolfe turns towards the Captain. 

“Ensign Wolfe, see if you can raise the Wa'Dich. They don't seem willing to listen, but we should at least try and warn them the ships are coming back together."

“Aye sir.”

An at once Wolfe turn back towards his terminal and brings up a diagram of the current positions of the ships regrouping. He then opened an audio channel to the Wa’Dich.

“This is the Ens. Wolfe. Broadsword. I have urgent information for your captain and tactical officer concerning current sensor data.”

After 30 seconds of silence, Wolfe restates the message. Finally, the communication officer responds.

“Ensign Woolerf. This is the commutation officer of the Wa’Dich. Your tactical data is not needed. Wa'Dich Out.”

And then, once again, the commutation link was silent. Wolfe looked back towards the Captain with a quizzical look.

“Captain, would you like me to continue to try to reach the Wa’Dich?”

{Assuming yes, of course}

After three more broadcasts Wolfe turns towards the Captain and announces, “Sir, the, uhh, fourth tactical officer has been delegated with the ‘burden’ of hearing our information. I can put him on the screen if you wish.”

[Standing on the freighter Bridge]

"Perhaps, Captain" Blaine offers, "And how long were the pirates onboard and did they take anything from your ship?" she questions.

Blaine can't quite put her finger on it, but there is something not quite right about this Captain. First, he drinks alcoholic beverages while on duty, second, he neglects to inform us the pirates had boarded his vessel and third, he is not elaborating on exactly how they came aboard or what they wanted. She turns to the Captain again, "May I see your cargo manifest, Sir?"

[On Bridge.]

"On screen Ensign, lets see if we can get anything through to them."

A moment later a rather small, almost battered looking Klingon comes on the screen. "What do you want, Ferengi? We don't want to buy any used shuttles."

"We are following orders, rather than running off like spoiled children. Now, if it pleases your self important, glory hounding, dishonorable excuse for a Captain can pull himself away from his wine, I have some information that my orders insist I give to you..." Chod's response is cut off by the appearance of Captain Da'Chak, pushing the Tactical Officer out of the way.

"Ferengi scum! How dare you insult my honor while you sit back and hide behind us?" 

Standing and walking to the front, a smile appears on Chod's face. "Ah, Captain, very good. Now that I have your attention, our following of orders and investigating the attack has revealed some tactical information which you may find helpful. Furthermore, it appears that the 2 groups are now headed for the same point, coordinates included in our data package. We can't scan that far ahead, and suggest you hold up and wait until we can give you some backup."

"We need no help from you. Continue with your humanitarian aide, we will deal with the warrior's work." Da'Chak then turns to his side and orders the comm signal cut. 

Chod shakes his head and turns back to his seat to get a status report.

[Speaking with Ensign Blaine.]

"Certainly Ensign, right over here. Will this take long? I know the Federation is compensating us for our time here, but still, the sooner we are done the sooner we can get back to real work. Here you go, several million liters of wine, some assorted packages for individual consumers, normal run. Apparently they were thirsty I guess."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Mazer listens to the angered comments of the Klingon Captain, and refrains from sighing. The Klingon Empire had come out of the war with the Dominion with a bigger ego than they had gone in with ... victory tends to do that. "If we were dealing with the Jem'Hadar, would they act differently?" the Trill wonders to himself. 

"No matter," he mumbles ... somewhat acquiring the glance of a nearby engineering officer. "Captain, the Klingons may be able to put up a fight ... Birds of Prey are good for that. But, they wouldn't last for long under these circumstances ... they're still outnumbered. It stands to chance they may need our help. I recommend that we proceed to assist either after reacquiring the away team, or, leaving the team here while we head off. I would much better prefer that the Klingons draw back here as I am not sure that there are any more pirates in the area, but ..." he reports. "You know Klingons, sir. They never seem to want to pull back from a fight." 

He doesn't bother to point out that they could request that the Klingons draw back to protect the freighter ... while the Akira Class cruiser goes in as a show of force. Something the Federation is good at when needed.

[On the freighter bridge]

K'anis is very satisfied at Ens. Blaine's performance and following of protocol. Were all this simulation for real, he might even allow her to detain the freighter captain for interrogation.

The Antican followed her inquire from the corner of his eye, as he replied to Ens. T'Lura at the same time. "Stand by, Drr. T'Lurra. We are questioning the captain of the frreighter on this subject and I'll contact Chod to deterrmine the urrgency of ourr deparrture. Proceed as you may see fit for the time being."

Tapping his communicator, K'anis now raises Captain Chod. "Broadsworrd, K'anis herre. Captain we seen to have gotten through some intriguing events down here. Seems the freighter was not only attacked but also boarrded by the pirrates, whom took most of the cargo of wine being trransported. Would you want us to go forth investigating orr should the AT return? Drr. T'Lurra has some injured crew she'd like to beam aboard the Broadsword forr properr treatment if we are to get back"

K'anis waits for Chod's decision.

[Over Intercom.]

Hearing the reports from the Away team and from Chief Mazer, Chod decides that they must move quick. The freighter is safe, and sensors are picking up a Service Tender coming to assist the ship in its trip back to port. The Klingon's are another matter.

Turning to answer the freighter team first, Chod turns to the viewscreen. "Negative Commander, our Klingon friends seem to be running into trouble, and we have to get underway to assist them as soon as possible. If needed leave behind a small team to assist, but I need you, Ensign Blaine, and Doctor T'Lura back as soon as possible. Once you are aboard we'll be moving off at Warp 9. Let the simulated local authorities continue the investigation, they should arrive shortly."

"Chief Mazer, make sure the shields are ready and sensors are set to full. We are going to have to make a dash to get there to help the fools out. Ensign Wolfe, as soon as the Away team reports back aboard, let me know. Helm, lay in a course for the Klingon's, maximum Warp. Lets hope they are still there when we arrive."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Nodding at the Captain's request, Jornas immediately begins coordinating with the engineering personnel on the bridge in regard to shields, sensors and weapons. If they are about to enter into "battle," untested, they might as well be ready for it. One by one, each requested system and subsystem is thoroughly diagnosed, and all reports come up green. "Captain, we are set ... preparing to go to red alert upon your order," he states ... knowing full and well the order would not come immediately. Not until the away team was safely onboard, and they were en route to the rescue of the ... "stupid" Klingons, as their Ferengi Captain put it. 

For a moment, Jornas wondered if there was some prejudice involved. But then again, he knows he probably would have reacted the same way to Klingons ... they do know how to push people's buttons, quite well.

[On the Freighter]

"Verry well, sirr", the Antican replies to his CO over the COMM link with the Broadsword. "We'll reporrt back immediately"

He closes the channel and turns first to Blaine. "Ensign, recall your teams. We are beaming back." Then, K'anis taps his communicator. "Doctorr T'Lurra, our Klingon allies got themselves into some sorrt of trouble. We have to reporrt back ASAP to the ship. If you need, beam the injured back as well"

K'anis finally addresses the freighter captain. "Authorities are being notified of yourr situation and will arrive quite soon to take overr investigations. Trry to keep as low a profile as you can in the mean time as we will not be able to lend assistance quite quickly"

He brings up the COMM with the starship again. "Transporrterr Operrator, this is Cmdrr K'anis. Prepare to commence away team retrrieval on my mark"

K'anis then waits for everyone be ready.

[In the freighter’s sickbay]

“Understood, sir,” T`Lura acknowledges the XO. She takes a quick look around sickbay. “We will be transporting nine of the freighter’s crew, including her captain. With your permission, I will contact Ensign Wolfe and have my team and the injured transported directly to sickbay.”

{Assuming the XO gives permission}

T`Lura turns to Gable and Lombard. “We need to finish getting these nine ready for transport. We do not have more than a few minutes.” Gable and Lombard continue prepping as T`Lura moves to Mikey. 

“Thank you for your assistance, Mikey. According to Mr. Gable, you were an asset. Perhaps you should consider a transfer to the medical field.” 

Mikey blushes, as he seems to do whenever T`Lura addresses him. “Thank you, ma’am. I might give that some thought.” With that, Mikey heads out the sickbay door.

“Doctor,” Lombard began, “we are ready for transport.”

“Very good.” T`Lura taps her communicator. 

“Ensign Wolfe, this is Doctor T`Lura. Please transport 12 directly to sickbay.”

[On the Bridge]

"Ensign Wolfe, this is Doctor T`Lura. Please transport 12 directly to sickbay.”

Wolfe actives his comm system with a light touch on his panel. 
"Understood Doctor. Prepare for transport... initializing."

A quiet beep confirms a successful transport.

[Standing on the freighter Bridge]

Blaine follows the freighter Captain a few steps to another console where he hands her a PADD containing the cargo manifest. She taps the button and scrolls down the list, while listening to the Captain, ramble on, ignoring his question as to how long this will take. "Captain, I find it difficult to believe pirates would attack your vessel and risk damage just to steal wine. Who contracted you to deliver this wine and from where was this wine produced?"

Blaine continues to scroll down the list of cargo when she hears the order from Commander K'anis, "Ensign, recall your teams. We are beaming back."
"Aye, Sir" she replies as she turns to the freighter Captain, "I assume you have another copy of this manifest because I will be taking this back with me to the Broadsword" she states as she waves the PADD in front of his face.

She taps her COM badge, "Blaine to all returning security teams, prepare for immediate transport." Turning to Commander K'anis, "All departing security personnel are ready for transport, Sir"

[On the freighter]

K'anis had just closed the link to Dr. T'Lura granting her request to beam the simulated injured aboard. The Antican felt pride that the crew was performing so well in the simulation.

"Good indication how they'll do when time for hunting comes", he thinks to himself. Just then Ens Blaine talks to him.

Taken off his brief reverie, K'anis acknowledge his TO 'ready-to-go' report with a nod and immediately contacts the Broadsword.

"Mrr. Wolfe, retrrieve the away team", he orders the Operations Managers and stands his full height waiting for the ACB take hold of him.

[Standing on the freighter Bridge]

Blaine tucks the PADD containing the freighter's cargo manifest into her belt then moves to stand beside the XO as she readies herself for the beam out. She glances at the XO then turns to face forward, hand behind her back, feet slightly spread. She feels the familiar tingle as the transporter effect initiates.

[Materializing in Transporter Room One aboard the Broadsword]

Blaine rematerializes on the transporter pad in Transporter Room One aboard the Broadsword and immediately steps down off the platform and stows her phaser in the weapons locker before rushing out the transporter room doors for the turbolift.

She stops and taps the control pad next to the turbolift door and watches as the doors slide open. She steps in, turns an about-face and she sees Commander K'anis jogging towards the turbolift. "Computer, hold turbolift" she commands as Commander K'anis enters. "Sir" she says as she nods acknowledging him. "Computer, Bridge" she commands. Immediately the turbolift doors close and they begin their ascent to the Bridge.

Blaine turns to Commander K'anis and asks, "Sir, what is your impression of the freighter Captain? There's something about this whole thing that just doesn't sit right with me. First there's the attack on the freighter...why would 4 vessels attack one freighter? I mean, why risk damaging four vessels when at most all they needed was two. And what about the omission from the freighter's logs about them being boarded? I suspect those entries were deleted. And why did the Captain neglect to mention the boarding sooner? 

I strongly suspect that this whole attack was a ruse to make it look like the freighter was robbed to cover up some kind of smuggling operation. I mean, who knows what was in those barrels of wine? We only know what the Captain told us, which could be anything he liked."

Blaine stands firmly waiting for a reply from Commander K'anis.

[Lawrence is caught napping. Well, sorta.]

Things had taken on some bewildering turns while she just sort of Sat there, thought Kincaid Lawrence a bit distractedly.

This was probably because she was extremely low on caffeine at the moment.

The Away Team had been beamed back, and now they were on course to... hmmm... if she recalled correctly, they were on their way to meet up with the Klingon ship, which was funny, considering the fact that the Klingons didn't want them around.

How rude.

Kincaid rubbed her eyes and tried to look as though she'd been awake and alert the entire time, instead of suffering from caffeine withdrawal.

She gave herself a 8.0 out of 10.

Counsellor, analyse thyself.

She analysed herself and came up with diagnostic code 292.9: "Caffine-Related Disorder Not Otherwise Specified."

[Walking off the turbolift onto the Bridge]

As she stepped off the turbolift she surveyed the bridge but a moment before walking over to take her place at the Science station.

[Steps out of the lift after Rayton]

M'rel crosses the bridge get to his engineering console.

"Ah, Ensign Rayton, Ensign M'Rel, welcome aboard. I'm Chod, Captain of the Federation. Currently we are engaged in Wargames, and as soon as we recover our Away Team we'll be getting under way. Ensign Rayton, take Science. There are at least 6 pirate vessels closing on our Klingon friends, and we need to know if there are anymore. Ensign M'Rel, we're going to push the engines to the maximum to get us there in time to help our Klingon partners. Keep your eyes on them. Carry on." 

Turning to the front, Chod turns to Ensign Wolfe, noticing on the screen the local authorities have arrived to continue the "investigation", leaving them free to depart when the team is secure. 

"Ensign Wolfe, is our Away Team back aboard?"

[ at the Science station on the bridge]

"Aye Captain," Ens. Rayton said turning to the science console and started running scans for any other ships in the area.

[On the Bridge]

"Yes, Sir." M'rel says as he reaches his console. He starts running simulations on how much he can push the engines just in case his captain asks for more power.

[in the sickbay]

T`Lura materialized in sickbay and found MO Clark waiting.

“Welcome back, Doctor,” he said as he moved to the nearest plasma burn victim. With the help of Technician Lombard, he transferred the freighter crewman to a biobed. “As soon as we learned what types of injuries may be transported to the Broadsword, we ran diagnostics on the necessary equipment and everything is ready.”

“Very good, Doctor Clark,” T`Lura replied as she watched the sickbay team move into action, a seemingly choreographed dance in which everyone moved to an assigned patient, never getting in the way or bumping into another, and transferred all the wounded to sickbay biobeds. T`Lura nodded in approval. Although together only a short time, the sickbay complement was gelling into a cohesive team, which boded well for far more difficult encounters ahead.

“Most triage was done on the freighter,” T`Lura continued to Clark, “but I did not feel comfortable leaving the wounded in the freighter’s sickbay. I expect a full recovery from all our patients, although the knife-stab patient is in critical condition. He lost a large amount of blood.” 

T`Lura turned to Nurse Gable, “Mr. Gable, please check the blood level of our knife-wound and replenish as necessary. Immediately advise me if he needs extraordinary levels or his wound reopens.”

“Yes, Doctor,” responded Gable as he moved off to take care of his charge.

Clark paused in his ministrations to the freighter crewman. “Two new senior staff reported for duty while you were on the freighter, Doctor. Their medical profiles are on PADDs on your desk.”

“Excellent. Although their physicals will have to wait until our current mission is over. Let’s finish our work here and then you can fill me in on what happened while I was on the freighter.”

[Materializing on TR1]

The confinement beam release his hold of the massive Antican who served as the Broadsword's XO. Cmdr. K'anis was all concentration now that they had a clear prey to pursue, namely the lousy Klingon 'allies' who might have gotten themselves into the oldest of the traps.

"Captain Chod, K'anis here. The away teams are back", he says after tapping his commbadge. "I'm on my way to the bridge as we speak".

K'anis left TR#1 without even nodding at the operator and dashed to the nearest turbolift. The XO was a quite agile individual for one his size, but truth be told, Tactical Officer Blaine beat him to the TL and was holding it for the Antican.

He nodded as he entered and turned his attention to the ensign. After ordering for the bridge, Blaine expressed her concerns regarding the freighter captain. K'anis appreciated her initiative more and more.

"Those are good points, ensign.", he says after her. "Very observative of you. There's really something going on that does not meet the eye. I think yes that the freighter commandant was not much collaborative and may have much to explain to the authorities now that they got here"

"You suspect that captain to be collaborating with the pirates, and you might be right about that. Just wine would not be good enough a reason for the pirates to mobilize their assets"

"I surmise they might be just playing the role of prey, while they are really the predators. Surely a Klingon Bird-of-Prey is a far more valuable prize for them.", K'anis concludes his remarks to Blaine.

"Let alone a Federation Akira-class battlecruiser...", K'anis adds just as the TL doors open onto the bridge.

It would be interesting to hear Blaine's thoughts about those assessments.

[Materializing...]

The confinement beam released its grip on the large Antican and K'anis wasted no time now that a prey was at hand and he would go for it.

"Captain Chod, K'anis here. The away teams are back", he says after tapping his commbadge. "I'm on my way to the bridge as we speak".

Dashing out the TR, K'anis - a rather agile individual for one his size - found Ensign Blaine had beaten him to the turbolift. She held the door for him and then commanded it for the bridge.

Blaine was a person who used to speak out her ideas. K'anis liked it on an tactical officer. He paid attention to her explanation therefore.

"Very observative, ensign", K'anis conceded. "I tend to agree with you that there's more than meets the eye here. The authorities will be notified on such details and deal with it properly"

"What I think is that these pirates may be just pretending to be prey here, when in truth they make have predator intentions. Looks like our Klingon counterparts are about to find out. Surely a BOP is far more valuable than a cargo of wine", the Antican points out to her.

"Not to say a Federation Akira-class battlecruiser", he concludes his remarks while storming onto the bridge.

[Kincaid plays the counsellor. It's an unpopular job.]

Being a shrink meant one of two things.

1. People ignore you.
2. People are obsessed with you.

At the moment, she was banking on the former.

This was because her face was contorted into an expression that someone might wear if ammonia gas started pouring into the vents for no apparent reason. 

She was really starting to wonder about one of several things.

1. Since this was an exercise in wargames, was the freighter really real, and were Dr. T'Lura's patients real?

2. Since, again, this was an exercise, where did the pirates come from, and were *they* real?

3. Were, for that matter, the Klingons real; and, if so, what did they sit on earlier in the day that had made them so disagreeable? (Upon reflection, Kincaid decided that this actually didn't mean anything at all, since most Klingons she had met were *always* acting like they had had some unpleasant encounters with a porcupine, especially if people tried to help them or anything. Talk about your single-minded strive for independence. Talk about your overgrown sense of self-reliance. Talk about... well, she didn't need to worry about that, decided Kincy. After all, the Klingons weren't *her* responsibility... at least, not yet. She rather hoped it stayed that way, too.)

4. What would their chances be of ever finding out exactly what was going on in this exercise? She somehow doubted that an Admiral would ring them up and tell them that objective A had been met this or that way and that objective B had seemed to be Y but was actually Z and so on and so forth. Rats.

5. Kincy was somehow under the impression that this wasn't over yet. Well, she was looking at her timepiece, and it was an entire hour At Least since they'd started off. Did these things go on forever? (Then she realised that hour-long simulations were fabrications of the Academy curricula and that real missions lasted a lot longer than even an hour.)

Then she wondered if she should have been psychoanalysing the Klingon Captain.

Then she decided that she was NOT supposed to do that.

Psychoanalysing people was dangerous enough.

You didn't want to go totally insane trying to analyse an aggressive species like the Klingons, in case transference caused you to suffer extensive physical injury or something.

[FCO Moore at the helm]

Moore checks for the correct course to the Klingon ship, lays in the course &
max. warp, then replies : "Course laid in for maximum Warp, Captain."

[ at Science station ]

"Captain I am reading no additional ships in the area but I will continue my scans and alert you to any changes," Lana said continuing her scans of the region.

[On Bridge.]

"Very good Ensign Moore, Ensign Rayton. Just as soon as we answer our 'rescue relief' we'll get under way. Ensign Wolfe, download our findings to the approaching relief ship so they know what our team has found. As soon as our team is aboard, we will get underway."

"Crew, it is a definate possibility that we are the intended target. If they have done this to lure us in, we will have to be both quick and careful. We can't give them time to set up, and yet we can't rush in blind. Keep observant, and don't hesitate to make any suggestions. It never hurts to be flexible."

[On Bridge.]

"Commander K'anis, Lieutenant Blaine, welcome back. We'll be getting under way as soon as we brief the ship coming up to continue the investigation. Good work over there. I hope that their Captain was simply bored and not hiding something, but for right now we can't be sure. Have teams ready to repel boarders. If we or our Klingon friends are the intended target, we need to be ready."

[Standing at Tactical Station Two]

Blaine’s attention is diverted from the tactical console as she hears the Captain, "Commander K'anis, Lieutenant Blaine, welcome back. We'll be getting under way as soon as we brief the ship coming up to continue the investigation. Good work over there.” "Thank you, Sir." she replies. 

“I hope that their Captain was simply bored and not hiding something, but for right now we can't be sure. Have teams ready to repel boarders. If we or our Klingon friends are the intended target, we need to be ready."

"Captain, I have made a preliminary report of my findings on the freighter to Commander K'anis and Lieutenant Mazer and my first impression of the freighter Captain and the entire attack situation are suspect, Sir. I am certain there is more to this than meets the eye but until I can complete my analysis of the freighter sensor data and further my investigation, I cannot make any further comments. I will have Security teams prepared and in position within 5 minutes, Sir” she replies as she turns her attention back to the tactical console.

She taps the console opening a COM to Security, “Blaine to Security” “Walker here, Sir” comes the reply. “Ensign Walker, initiate Security Protocol Alpha 1. I want teams armed and stationed in all sensitive areas of the ship within 5 minutes. All team leaders are to report in when in position. Blaine, out” “Aye, Sir” he replies as the COM closes.

[in sickbay]

T`Lura was just finishing the treatment of a burned victim when a shout ould be heard from across the room. She turned to find Lombard struggling with a freighter crewman. Clark quickly moved over to assist her, quickly giving the frantic crewman a sedative via his hypo.

"What happened?" her Vulcan ears could easily pick up the question from MO Clark.

Lombard shrugged, "I'm not sure, Doctor. He was fine one moment, we were talking about his job on the freighter, and then he just went crazy. I was afraid he was going to undo all the work we did on him."

T`Lura quickly finished up and headed over to the two. "Was there anything that might have precipitated this?" she inquired of Lombard.

"No, Doctor, not as far as I could tell. He just went crazy," Lombard repeated.

T`Lura's left eyebrow rose, but she nodded at Lombard, who went back to her duties. As Lombard walked away, T`Lura turned to Clark. "Any thoughts, Doctor?"

Clark looked squarely at T`Lura, wondering if she was testing him. "I believe he is experiencing post-trauma disorder, Doctor. With the severity of his injuries, it is understandable and, quite frankly, expected. I would suggest the counselor visit sickbay. These men will need counseling as well as medical attention."

T`Lura nodded again, "Very good, Doctor. Those were my thoughts also. Thank you."

T`Lura turned and walked to her office. Taking a seat, she toggled her comm.

"Counselor, if you are not needed at present, would you please report to sickbay."

[still at the engineering console]

M'rel runs diagnostics on the engines and the integrated systems that accompany them and finds a slight inefficiancy with the drive systems (a mere human wouldnt have been able to detect it). The Ens. makes a quick note about it mentally so he can put it in his logs later and corrects the minor problem. There was no sense in telling the captain about something so small as this slight fluctuation especially since it was getting corrected immediately. 

The engineering console gets very lonely since no one really talks to the engineer unless they have a problem or want more power. Also he didn't want to go down to Main Engineering since he left Master Chief Wilkins in charge and he knows M.E. is in good hands for the time being.

[Kincaid Lawrence asks to take leave of the Bridge]

Hearing the comm from Sickbay, Lawrence turned to the Captain.

"Permission to report to Sickbay, sir?" she said, almost hopefully.

[On Bridge, center seat.]

"Of course, Counselor, just keep us informed. If we need your expertise we'll give you a call."

[Lawrence hops off to Sickbay]

Kincaid listened to the Captain's reply with some relief.

"Thank you, sir," she said, and tried not to run to the turbolift.

She almost succeeded.

[Lawrence arrives in Sickbay to take care of People. Yeah!]

Kincaid used every bit of turbolift transport time to calm down and take stock.

She was nearly keeling over from excitement, though. Psych evaluations were all very well, but most counsellors became counsellors to, well, counsel people.

Kincaid Lawrence became a counsellor to analyse the psychotic mind, but she still liked to counsel people.

Most of the time.

She hoped that was the reason for Dr. T'Lura's request.

She would be so Disappointed if Sickbay contained nothing but a mentally healthy crew of medical department staff.

She walked into Sickbay and was happy to note that some patients were about.

Perhaps her services were needed!

"Hello, Dr. T'Lura," she said to the Chief Medical Officer. "Reporting as requested." Her eyes strayed toward the freighter crewmen.

[in Sickbay, taking care of People]

T`lura was just starting to catch up on her paperwork when the counselor walked into Sickbay.

“Hello, Dr. T`Lura,” she heard. Getting up, T`Lura walked out of her office. “Counselor,” T`Lura nodded. “You are very prompt. I hope we are not taking you away from anything, but I believe our patients will need counseling during their recovery. As you know, treating a victim’s physical health is sometimes easier than treating their mental health.”

T`Lura moved closer to one biobed. “I am most concerned about Crewman Mays. He bore the brunt of the explosion and is the most seriously injured of the plasma burn victims. I thought he was recovering nicely, he was even speaking to Technician Lombard about his duties on board the freighter, when he lost control. It was necessary to sedate him. The sedation should be wearing off in a few minutes.”

T`Lura began reading Mays’ biosigns.

[Ens. Moore at the helm]

While waiting to get under way, Moore looks around the bridge and thinks,
" I'm getting ready to fly this ship into possible combat, unbelievable! I also can't believe Rayton & M'rel got assigned to the Broadsword ,too. I wasn't around her much at the Academy, but that M'rel is such a stuff shirt. "

[On Bridge.]

"Engage at maximum Warp, Ensign Moore. Keep sharp everyone, this is just an exercise, but we still don't want to fly into a trap."

[at the helm]

Moore has been sitting on ready and almost jumps out of his seat when the Captain tell him to engage. 

"Yes, Sir! Engaged! We're on the way!"

[ at Science station ]

As Lana continued to run every scan she could come up of for any strange readings, she thought about how ironic that she was the CSo considering she was better at engineering then science.

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine completes her report on the freighter investigation and transmits it along with the information gathered from the freighter's logs to the local authorities that have just arrived on the scene. She is hopeful they will get to the bottom of the suspicious attack and the freighter Captain's involvement.

She turns her attention to the sensors and monitors the pirate vessels and the Wa’Dich carefully studying the positions of each vessel on the tactical screen. For the time being there are only 4 pirate vessels to contend with, however that could change at any moment. “Between the Broadsword and the Wa’Dich we should be able to handle four pirate vessels” she thinks to herself. “But any more than four and we might have a problem.”

Her console starts beeping an alert as the Wa’Dich suddenly changes course to intercept the lead pirate vessel. “Captain, the Wa’Dich is changing course to intercept the lead ship. Her weapons are powered up. The other ships are moving into an attack position. We should hurry or we’ll miss the fun.” 

Blaine double-checks the defensive and offensive systems again, making sure they are ready. “Weapons are powered and ready at your command, Sir”

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine monitors the vessels on the tactical screen watching as the Wa’Dich changes course to intercept the lead pirate vessel. An alert beep sounds as two more pirate vessels move into the sector. “Captain, they must have called for reinforcements. Two additional pirate vessels entering the sector, coordinates 209 Mark 3 and heading directly for the Wa’Dich. The ships are about the size of a Nova class vessel however scans reveal the ships consist primary of cargo holds, engines and weapons. We are now facing a total of 18 Type VIII phaser arrays between the six ships but their torpedo launchers are empty, which is a good sign” she says trying to sound convincing, her voice sounding a bit anxious.

[On Bridge in seat.]

"Very good, Lieutenant Blaine. Looks like all the birds are coming back for the party. Let's see if we can disable them, but I don't want to loose our Klingon allies to do so. Everyone, keep your eyes open. We're approaching the end of the exercise, this isn't the time to make a mistake."

[ at the science station ]

Lana frowned as some new sensor readings appeared on her console, " That's interesting," she mummered to herself. And doubled checked the readings to confirm them.

[Lawrence tries some counselling]

"Nothing's more important than the mental health of our patients," said Kincaid. "Anything on the Bridge, well, other people can take care of that."

She drew up a chair from nearby and sat down next to Crewman Mays's biobed. No point in towering over him when he woke up.

A few minutes later, as predicted, the crewman opened his eyes.

"Hello, Mr. Mays," said Kincaid carefully, trying to sound as friendly and unassuming as possible. "Do you know where you are?"

[in sickbay]T`Lura nodded approvingly as Counselor Lawrence sat by the biobed. “Excellent,” she thought to herself, “although the counselor is a bit quirky, she seems to have an empathy for the patients.” Knowing Crewman Mays needed no immediate medical attention, T`Lura spoke softly to the counselor. “I will be in my office or attending patients, if you should need anything or have any questions.” 

Not waiting for a reply, T`Lura moved from biobed to biobed, checking the vital signs and recovery of the other freighter crew. She stopped last at the knife-wound patient. “Mr. Gable,” she asked of the attending nurse, “any problems?”

Gable smiled at his chief, “No, Doctor, in fact, just the opposite. The wound is healing exceptionally well and there is no sign of infection. I’d say this guy,” Gable gestured towards the patient, “should be ready for duty in a day or two.”

T`Lura raised her eyebrow at Gable’s prognosis but only commented, “Very well, Mr. Gable. Thank you,” as she moved over to confer with MO Clark.

“Doctor,” she nodded, “I see our patients are all recovering, at least their physical injuries. Counselor Lawrence,” T`Lura glances in the counselor’s direction, “is available for any psychological needs they may have. As everything is under control, I will be in my office.”

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine watches the tactical monitor as two additional pirate vessels move into attack position against the Wa'Dich. "Captain, the Wa'Dich has opened fire on the lead vessel and they are returning fire. The rest of the ships have moved into attack formation and have opened fire on the Wa'Dich. Estimated time to weapons range, 2 minutes, Sir,” she informs as beads of sweat begin to form on her brow. “Running scans on the Wa’Dich.” 

As the tension mounts Blaine runs the scans on the Wa’Dich. She begins analyzing the data as it scrolls on the monitor and makes her report, “Sir, the Wa’Dich’s shields are down to 60%. Structural Integrity fields are weak but holding. She has taken damage to the starboard disrupter cannon.” Her attention shifts back to the tactical monitor. The random blips on her screen are moving very quickly, “Sir, the pirate vessels are regrouping and coming about for another attack run. A couple of more runs like the last one and the Wa’Dich will be history.”

[At the helm]

Moore looks over his navigation sensors, notices only a rouge planet at 10 A.U. from the battle area, and thinks, " We could come in at almost any angle of approach, but what would be the most advantageous for us?"

"Captain? What if we use this rouge planet as a screen? We could make a pass behind it, and possibly gain a little element of surprise on the pirates."

[ at Science station ]

Lana looked up as her readings where confirmed, and caught what Ens. Moore said. " Sir I don't know if that would be such a good idea, I got some very strange sensor readings back from that planet."

[On Bridge.]

Turning to Ensign Moore, "I think we need to move in direct. Although the cover might give us more of a punch, our allies might not be able to wait." Chod hears the additional comment from Ensign Rayton. "Strange how?"

[at the helm]

Moore shrugs his shoulders, and continues on the direct course to the battle scene. As the ship races toward the area, Moore starts running through different ship manuevers in his mind trying to decide on the best approach possible. Then he turns and says:

" Captain, I'm going to try to come in on the pirates' flank unless you or the TO have any objections or other ideas."

[ at science station ]

"The planet has no atmoshpere, but I am picking up an artifical enviroment within what appears to be a dome-like structure. I am also picking up fairly high energy readings eminating from the structure for it to be an uncharted settlement." Lana said looking over her sensor readings.

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine nervously checks the weapons and targeting systems for the 4th time since leaving the freighter. "Weapons....check, targeting scanners.....check, shields.....check" she mumbles as she looks up hearing the FCO in the background, "Captain, I'm going to try to come in on the pirates' flank unless you or the TO have any objections or other ideas."

"Sir, considering the attack formation of the pirate vessels, the present condition of the Wa’Dich and the fact that we are outnumbered, I recommend initiating attack pattern Beta 2-7, which will allow us a few extra seconds to acquire the target and fire” she offers.

[Lawrence counsels Crewman Mays] 

The crewman's eyes wandered for a moment, unfocused, then slowly settled on Kincaid's face. 

"A Federation ship..." He sighed. "I don't know which one." 

"That's all right." Kincaid leaned a bit closer so that the crewman could see her more easily. "Yes, you are on a Federation ship. There was an explosion." 

"I almost died in there," muttered the crewman, as if in a dream. "The pain..." 

Kincaid waited patiently, nodding slightly to show that she had heard. 

"Why would anyone do this?" asked Mays. "How could anyone..." 

Kincaid quietly drew the curtains around Mays's biobed. Some things should be private, even in a Sickbay. 

She was actually glad that Mays was showing some emotion already. So many times, people put their emotions aside when disasters struck, stashing them away until months, even years, later. 

That usually made things worse. 

"I wish that... that *idiot*... who did this..." 

Kincaid listened, not saying a word, only exuding support and sympathy. 

Sometimes, the only thing a counsellor could do was to listen.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical One]

Mazer listens to the external fighting reports coming from his subordinate, and the tension strikes him as well. The Klingons, as brash as ever, have gotten themselves into a situation they very well may die in. Although they probably wouldn't mind that at all. One must always keep in mind that Klingons have a death wish ... as long as it is a death with honor. "I agree with the Lieutenant's recommendations, Captain," states the Trill Chief Tactical Officer as he prepares the weapons systems.

[at the helm]

Moore hears to TO & CTO's recommendation, and says, " Beta 2-7, aye Sir." As he sets the course, he thinks, "Is what Rayton saw on that planet part of the test or not?"

[On Bridge, receiving reports.]

"Very well, Tactical and Flight control, just make sure you are coordinating maneuvers. We'll try and rescue our allies first. After all, I'm not sure if simulated death in combat carries the same honor with it."
"Ensign Rayton, keep an eye on that planet. If I were to guess I'd say that is there base. If not, it's still worth investigating."
"Ensign M'Rel and Ensign Wolfe, see what kind of power you can dig us up and let us know at the first sign of trouble with any systems."
"Commander K'anis, looks like we're ready to go in."

[At the Engineering Console]

"Aye Captain," M'rel almost happily says as he thinks, 'Finally something to do!' 

[calls M.E. from his console]

"Master Chief Wilkins, get damage control teams ready, we are about to get into a 'hotspot'" 

"Aye sir, repair teams are being mustered right now and will be dispatched when necessary." The Master Chief responds.

[Standing at tactical station two]

The tension on the Bridge is so thick you could cut it with a knife as Blaine’s eyes are glued on the tactical screen. 

She hears the beep from her tactical console signaling the target coming into weapons range. She watches as a red crosshair hovers over the lead pirate vessel as the scanners try to lock on. Not taking the time to think in her excitement she calls out loudly, “Bingo!” as the crosshairs begins to blink. “Target acquired, Sir!” she calls out to the Captain and Lt. Mazer a bit anxiously. “Weapons ready to fire!”

[ at the science station]

" Aye Captain, " Lana says turning her attention back to her science console.

[At station on Bridge]

"Aye sir. If there is power, you will have it."

[At the XO's chair]

The Antican scrolls up the datastream coming from most departments as the time for hunt approaches. He hears the Captain addressing him.

"Yes, sirr. I'd agrree that time has come forr the hunt to begin", said K'anis to his superior. "I'd recommend a warrning shot off the lead ship's bow, in orderr to state ourr business here. If that fails - as I expect - then we should focus on the lead ship herself. Pack hunters as these pirrates can be intimidated if we take off their leader"

The Antican tapped his chair armrest console, contacting sickbay and informing the CMO and CNS that they are to be prepared for eventual casualties. True, it was just a wargames simulation, but they've followed it properly so far, and K'anis would like to maintain the high performance level where it was now.

"Mr. M'rell", K'anis asks the new CEO of the Broadsword. "Take all non essential systems offline and divert power surpluss evenly to shields, weapons and SIF"

"Mazer, Blaine, any further recommendation?", the XO inquires the Tactical crew then.

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine turns to face Commander K’anis as he proposes his strategy plan. "I'd recommend a warrning shot off the lead ship's bow, in orderr to state ourr business here. If that fails - as I expect then we should focus on the lead ship herself. Pack hunters as these
pirrates can be intimidated if we take off their leader” 

After giving orders to the engineering department, he turns to tactical and asks "Mazer, Blaine, any further recommendations?" Blaine steps forward to tactical station one, positioning herself next to Lt. Mazer and states “Sir, we have the advantage now. We should take them out while we have the chance. A warning shot will only give them time to regroup and attack the Broadsword and the Wa’Dich is in no shape to come to our aid. I have the lead ship locked into our targeting scanners and we are ready to fire. I advise we make our move, now. Umm…Sir” she says her voice trailing off, backing up a few steps with her head slightly bowed realizing she should have allowed Lt. Mazer to speak first. “Sorry, Lieutenant” she apologizes quietly to Lt. Mazer, a bit embarrassed by her outburst to the XO.

Moving back to tactical two and nervously taps a few buttons on the panel, “What did I just do? Stupid, stupid, stupid!!” she scolds to herself. “When will you learn to keep your big mouth shut and just do your job?”

[On the Bridge, at Tactical One]

Mazer watches Lieutenant Blaine "retreat" back to Tactical Two, "Your recommendation is sound, Ms. Blaine. But let's wait and see what the Captain wants to do ..." With that, Mazer prepares the phaser arrays and torpedo tubes for any specific combat situation ... but preps Arrays One and Two for warning shots. 

"Captain, I have prepared the weapons systems for warning shots as per recommendations. Should I take the shot?" he inquires, looking at the inbound targets which are bleeping on his console.

[On Bridge.]

"Very good Chief Mazer, Lieutenant Blaine. Fire the warning shot, but be ready to engage with hot weapons. Ensign Wolfe, see if you can raise the pirates on the Comm channel. Commander K'anis, crew, lets see what this ship can do."

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine turns her upper body looking behind her at Lt. Mazer as the Captain decides to fire a warning shot instead of just firing on the lead pirate vessel as she suggested. She turns her attention back to her console and prepares to fire on the lead vessel already locked into her targeting systems and waits for the order to fire.

Blaine begins stabbing firmly at the console buttons in frustration thinking, “What can the Captain be thinking? We are outnumbered, the Wa’Dich is all but lunch meat barely holding together and he thinks the pirate vessels are going to run when they detect OUR WARNING SHOT?????” Suddenly she stops her train of thought and tries to recall if Trill, Ferengi or Anticans are telepathic or not.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Mazer nods at the Captain, and loads a single photon torpedo. Noting the location of the inbound vessels, he programs a specific course. The course will take the torpedo past the noses of all the ships, before causing it to harmlessly detonate away from the vessels. Jornas feels this is the best way to get the ... point across. 

And with that done, he fires the torpedo.

[in her office]

T`Lura had barely sat down when she heard the quiet hiss of a biobed curtain
closing. Looking up, she saw the counselor had enclosed herself and Crewman
Mays within the curtain. "Very good," she thought herself, "although it
does not afford true privacy for conversation, it gives the impression of
it. This may be all Crewman Mays needs to open up to the counselor."
T`Lura looked back to her monitor, reading over the report MO Clark had
prepared in her absence. 75% of the crews' physicals had been completed -
the rest were scheduled for after the current training mission. Two
engineering noncoms had cut themselves while doing maintenance; a junior
science officer was treated for a minor rash; and one of her staff was six
weeks pregnant. T`Lura's left eyebrow rose at this last entry. She had not
thought a Starship was the proper place for children, which is why her
husband and son were on Vulcan.

T`Lura turned her eyes and thoughts back to the report. Biobed 3 was still
malfunctioning. The brain wave scanner was working within design
parameters. A short note regarding shift manning ended his report. T`Lura
nodded in satisfaction. She was pleased with MO Clark. Although young, and
barely two years of practical experience, he so far had accounted well for
himself.

T`Lura was just starting a report to Captain Chod when she heard loud voices
from outside her office.

[still at the engineering console]

"Aye Commander," M'rel acknowledges the XO's command and quickly begins the delicate act of redirecting the power from systems not needed to the SIF, shields, and weapons. As he is taking power from the holodecks he thinks to himself "I hope there aren't any personnel down there getting a rude awakening during their little fantasy time," He stops himself wondering why he would even think anyone would be down in the holodecks at a time like this and slightly chuckles to himself at the image of the look on that individual's face as everything would vanish in the middle of his or her story. 

[at the helm]

Moore hears the Captain say "Let's see what this ship can do." and thinks to himself, " Yeah, baby!"

[At ops station]

"Ensign Wolfe, see if you can raise the pirates on the Comm channel."

"Aye sir, they are responding."

[Standing at tactical station two]

“Torpedo away” she says as she keeps her eyes riveted to the tactical monitor watching the blinking torpedo indicator moving across the screen towards the pirate vessels. Beads of perspiration begin to form on her brow as she prepares for the pirate’s counter-move, again checking the weapons systems and waiting for the order to fire at the lead vessel. 

The torpedo speeds across the bow of the lead vessel and past the others who have since regrouped. Once safely past the vessels it detonates sending streaks of bright light radiating outwards and creating a mild shockwave, which jolts the vessels momentarily.

“Captain, the torpedo has detonated. No damage to the vessels” she reports as she completes the scan. Turning her attention back to the tactical monitor she reports, “The vessels are changing formation. Four vessels now on an intercept course to our position! Recommend initiating evasive maneuver Alpha-3-2!” she calls out loudly as her fingers begin rapidly tapping the controls on her console. “Resetting targeting scanners…I have target lock! Phasers and torpedoes ready to fire!

[at the helm]

Moore hears Lt. Blaine's recommendation, and thinks " That'll work". He prepares the controls and says " Ready to initiate Alpha-3-2 evasive on your mark."

[On Bridge.]

Watching the pirates ignore the warning shot, Chod is not surprised. Heck, even if it wasn't a wargame he wouldn't be surprised, but it is the Federation's way.

Turning to his Tactical Officers he sighs and orders "Engage with all necessary force, fire at will."

On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Responding to his subordinate's urgent reports, and the Captain's given order, Jornas locks onto the inbound hostiles with all forward phaser arrays and available torpedo tubes. Confirmation comes in from the torpedo crews that there is one available photon barrage right now. He uses it. On his console screens, several small blips enter the foray ... signalling the launch of his torpedoes at the initial two pirate ships. The Trill's hands gracefully glide across the screen, locking onto the areas of the pirate vessels which were struck by the torpedoes ... and lancing out with brief, yet powerful, bursts of phaser fire.

"Mr. Moore, engage attack pattern omega-forty-niner please," Mazer states. The specified attack will have the Broadsword swing around wide, providing the port arrays and tubes a chance to open fire. As he awaits the FCO to provide the stated maneuver, he lets loose with an additional burst of intense phaser fire at a third pirate ship which has attempted to come in on the Broadsword's starboard side. "Looks like that pirate has found out not to mess with an Akira Class Starship the hard way," Jornas muses. 

While Jornas more appreciates the gracefulness and scientific capabilities of an Intrepid Class starship ... its hard not to admire the sheer tactical capability of an Akira Class. Tactical capability which he is "gleefully" demonstrating to these simulated pirates.

[On the bridge]

The Antican equivalent for adrenaline flooded his bloodstream. K'anis had a fangy smile on his face. Excitement before the hunt.

The prey (the pirates) had not taken their chance to leave when the predator (the Broadsword) entered the arena. Whatever happened to the pirates now was their fault exclusively.

This freedom of action was rare even for an Antican. He'd not let the moment pass by, even it being a simulation.

The rush made his mind clearer as potential tactical and strategic options crossed it. K'anis turned first to the Operations officer.

"Mrr. Wolf, put them on scrren", he said. K'anis did not expected a plea for mercy or something along those lines. But as per protocol, they had to hear whatever the pirates might have for them, even if just senseless insults. But the Kligons had also insulted them, and yet they were here to help them.

Moments before the OPS officer put the link through, K'anis distribute optional tasks for the bridge crew in case the engagement is put forth.

"Mrr. Moore, take us strraight to the middle of their formation. We'll have to break it and disperrse theirr forrce", he says to the FCO.

"Mrr. Mazerr, load forward torpedo launcher and phaser arrays. Feel free to show the crriminals that our 'warming shots' are to be taken seriously", the Antican instructs the CTO knowing he had to say no more to the competent Trill officer.

"Lt. Blaine, take over secondary phaserr banks and be ready to operrate them manually if you need. When the pirates break formation, I want a direct hit on the engines of the 2 closest ships as we fly through their ships. Make them worthy, Blaine, we'll need those couple of ships out of business to even things out"

Cmdr. K'anis turns then to the Captain, nodding and waiting for his commanding officer to approve the plan or adjust it.

The hunt is afoot..

[at the helm]

Moore says "Omega-forty-niner, now!" A big smile crosses his face as the Broadsword swings gracefully around the pirates' formation. Even though its only an exercise his heart hammers in his chests as he realizes that he is flying an actual starship. He thinks "If only Gordy could see me now."

[Standing at tactical station two]

“Lt. Blaine, take over secondary phaserr banks and be ready to operrate them
manually if you need. When the pirates break formation, I want a direct hit
on the engines of the 2 closest ships as we fly through their ships. Make
them worthy, Blaine, we'll need those couple of ships out of business to
even things out" “Aye, Sir!” she replies to Commander K’anis’ orders.

Blaine stares at the tactical monitor as the four blips, formed in an arrowhead-like formation approaches their position. She can feel her heart pounding as beads of perspiration begin to re-form on her brow. Suddenly several more blips appear on the screen headed towards the two lead pirate vessels. She unconsciously holds her breath as she watches the torpedoes hit their mark. She taps the console opening a COM to the torpedo crews “Blaine to torpedo room. We need another volley, port launchers, NOW!” and closes the COM. 

Blaine configures the port phaser arrays for manual targeting and stands by, watching Lt. Mazer as he has a little “fun” with the targets. She hears Ensign Moore in the background "Omega-forty-niner, now!" “Manual targeting activated! Tactical two ready, Sir!” she states as she maneuvers the crosshairs over the second pair of vessels and waits for Moore to bring the Broadsword into position. 

The FCO brings the Broadsword in a wide-angle sweep around the pirate vessels as Blaine centers the crosshairs on the target. The crosshairs begin to blink signaling a lock, “I have target lock, firing phasers!” she exclaims as she hits the fire button sending out a barrage of phaser fire. “Scanning the vessels for damage!” her fingers moving quickly over the console. “Shields on vessels 3 and 4 down to 60%, minor damage to the engines on vessel 4. Shields on vessels 1 and 2 are offline, major damage to their weapons arrays! Bring us about for another run! Re-targeting vessels 3 and 4!” She begins to maneuver the crosshairs again targeting their engines.

[at the helm]

Moore says a little"Yes!" under his breath as the pirate ships are damages by Mazer & Blaine's fire. He hears Blaine's request tocome around for another pass on vessels 3 & 4. He says " Continuing Omega-Forty-Niner for #3 & 4 targets, Lt. Blaine."

[Standing at tactical station two]

"Continuing Omega-Forty-Niner for #3 & 4 targets, Lt. Blaine" Moore calls out as he brings the Broadsword about and initiates another run. Her nerves are strained, her body tense as she begins zeroing in on the targets, the red crosshairs hovering over the blips on her tactical screen, “Target lock! Firing!” she shouts out, hitting the “Fire” button on her console sending several phaser volleys to the targets.

“Scanning for damage” she says as the FCO brings the Broadsword out of the arch. “Shield on vessels 3 and 4 offline! Engines on both vessels are offline! I think we’ve got ‘em now, Sir! Port torpedo launchers loaded and ready. Shall I finish them off, Sir?” she asks, the tension in her voice a bit more relaxed.

Blaine taps the console switching the scanners to the Wa’Dich and gives a report, “Sir, the Wa’Dich is heavily damaged. Weapons are offline, shields are down to 20%, structural integrity is down to 30%, and she is venting plasma. She won’t last another run by the other two pirate vessels.”

[On Bridge, Center Seat.]

"Make for the Wa'Dich, Ensign Moore. Ensign M'Rel, have teams standing by to assist when the area is secure. Ensign Wolfe, inform the pirates that they are ordered to surrender, failure to do so will result in their destruction. Commander Mazer, Lieutenant Blaine, target the vessels on the Wa'Dich and fire."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

As the FCO brings them around for a final volley [with both he and his subordinate targetting the vessels attacking the Klingon starship], Mazer silently murmurs a wish of good luck for the unlucky souls who are about to feel the full fury of the Broadsword. "Ms. Blaine, on my mark, open fire," he states. Locking onto the maneuvering pirate ships with a fully volley of torpedoes, and forward phaser arrays ... Mazer is well and prepared to end this little war game. 

"Fire!" he commands. And with that, his console readout lights up with various signatures stating a winning battle.

[at the helm]

Moore says, "Setting course for the Kingon ship, Captain"

[in sickbay, checking out a disturbance]

T`Lura looked up from her screen when she heard loud voices coming from sickbay. Standing, she moved swiftly to the door of her office, but the shouting was already subsiding. MO Clark rushed over to her side immediately. 

"Doctor, it's another of the burn patients. It was the same as the first. He was talking quietly to Nurse Gable one moment and then became irrational in the next. I quickly gave him a sedative. He should be out for about 10 minutes."

Clark had barely finished his report when another burn patient began shouting incoherently. "No, get away! What do you want? Why are you doing this?" Clark, hypo still in hand, quickly moved to the biobed. He had a bit of trouble, but was eventually able to inject the sedative into the neck of the patient. Clark then returned to T`Lura.

"Doctor," began T`Lura, "although I anticipated some psychological trauma from the victims, this seems more extreme than expected. I suggest there may be something besides the burn injury involved here."

Seeing Clark nodded reflectively, T`Lura moved over to Crewman Mays' biobed. Without opening the curtain, she spoke to Counselor Lawrence.

"Counselor, I do not intend to intrude, but a moment of your time, please."

[Standing at tactical station two]

"Lieutenant Mazer, Lieutenant Blaine, target the vessels on the Wa'Dich and
fire" orders Captain Chod. Directly behind her CTO Mazer gives her the
order "Ms. Blaine, on my mark, open fire." "Aye, Sir. Switching to auto
targeting. Aft torpedo launchers and phasers standing by!" she replies, her
eyes glued to the tactical display. "Fire!" comes the order from Lt. Mazer.

As Ensign Moore brings the Broadsword into her attack run, Lt. Mazer locks
onto the two pirate vessels and fires a full volley of torpedoes from the
forward torpedo launchers and following with a barrage of phaser fire. The
vessels begin their evasive maneuvers in a futile attempt to escape the
incoming fire. Quickly they come about firing all weapons on the Broadsword.

The Broadsword coming out of the attack run, rocks from the impacts as
Blaine gets a target lock, "Target lock! Firing aft torpedoes!" she states
sending a volley of torpedoes streaking towards the vessels from the aft
torpedo launchers and follows with a several blasts of phaser fire.

As the seemingly endless barrage of weapons fire bombards the vessels they
loose navigational control eventually spinning and colliding into one
another causing a massive explosion. The resulting shockwave slams into the
Broadsword sending the crew tumbling to the decks. The crippled Wa'Dich is
shoved backwards into a slow spin as it rides out the wave. Alarms activate
on the Broadsword bridge as the lights flicker and the crews scramble to get
to their feet and back to their stations.

Blaine grabs the tactical console and pulls herself up from the deck. She
taps her console trying to assess the damages, "Sensors are offline! Mr.
Wolfe, we need emergency power!" she says loudly. Damage reports begin to
roll in. "Damage reports coming in, Sir! Hull breaches on decks 7 and 8,
starboard sections 21 through 32 Alpha. Minor injuries reported on decks 4
and 6. Engineering reports damage to our starboard nacelle. Damage control
teams have been dispatched."

Blaine completes her report to the Captain and Commander K'anis then takes a
deep breath feeling the tension finally leave her body. She turns to Lt.
Mazer and whispers "Nice shooting, Sir" with a slight grin on her face. 
"Nice flying, Ensign Moore"

[at (no near)the helm]

Moore gets up from the floor, moves all his limbs, decides nothing is broken, and gets back to his station. He checks the navigational sensors to make sure the ship is in no danger of colliding with any debris, and makes a minor course correction to avoid a piece of (he assumes) pirate ship. He hears Lt. Blaine say " Nice flying, Ensign Moore". " Thanks, Lt. , Nice shooting, too." he says.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

The exploding pirate vessels had a greater affect on the general status of the Broadsword than Mazer would have expected in a simulation. "Starfleet sure has improved these weapons simulations ... must have called in some Academy trainers to prep all of this," Mazer muses to himself. "And perhaps the Corps of Engineers. Sheesh." The crew on the bridge begin to pick themselves up, and the quite cheerful Lieutenant Blaine congratulates him on his shooting ability. 

Jornas nods with a light smile, although he does not consider it much of a victory. To capture the pirates and bring them to justice, THAT would be victory to Jornas. Simply blowing them away doesn't change much of anything. There are always others to fill the void. Shaking his head, he tells himself to stop thinking too much. It was only a simulation. There are plenty of other missions which the Broadsword will have to deal with. And not all of them will deal with pirates. 

"Commander," he starts, directing his question to the XO. "Should we step down from red alert? And perhaps we should consider rendering assistance to the Wa'Dich?"

[On the bridge, XO's chair]

Thankfully Anticans are outfitted with sharp claws. K'anis dug his into the chair's armrest as the Akira-class starship run from one side to the other of the battle field.

Unimpeded. Unchallenged.

They did take upon some shots from the 'pirates'. Lt Blaine provided enough details of the shockwave impacts. Nevertheless, everyone performed admirably.

The Antican, however, had to wait to praise on the crew. "Drr. T'Lurra, Counselorr Lawrrence", he said through the intercomm system to sickbay. "Medical teams to Decks 4 and 6. Have an extrra team ready in case the Klingons need help overr there."

The Antican then closed the channel and turned to the Engineering station. "Ensign M'rrel, dispatch immediately damage contrrol team to the affected decks. Put sensorrs and the damaged nacelle at top priority. Again, have a sparre team ready to beam overr and help the Klingons if theirr honorr permits"

Finally, K'anis addressed the OPS officer. "Mrr. Wolfe. Open channels to the Klingons and to the pirrates. Ask if our allies need help, but try not to upset them regarrding honor issues. And the pirates should surrender unconditionally"

K'anis looked around the bridge and saw satisfaction on the crew's face. He knew that feeling was on his own face as well.

They made an expectional hunt today.

[Responding to Mazer]

The tactical officer addresses K'anis about their readiness status. It takes the Antican a few seconds to make a decision.

"Yes, Mrr. Mazerr. Take us to Yellow Alert and prepare the rescue teams to the Klingons and to the surviving pirates, whom should have medical attention and be put on the brig"

Anticans have evolved from simple predators to a spacefaring civilization when they realized how senseless it was to hunt the prey just for the pleasure of the kill.

Anticans were still rather violent and warrior-like as a race, but they learned how to coupe with his raw emotions and think clearly even in the heat of the hunt.

The pirates have been subdued. Kill them would be of no use. Be it a simulation or not, they were Starfleet officers.

And the crew of the Broadsword showed they can become one of the greatest crews on Starfleet.

[Standing at the Engineering Console]

"Aye sir, I will see to the repairs imediately." M'rel slightly brushes himself off from the fall he had while the little skirmish jostled the ship. He quickly taps the comm to Main Engineering to call up the Master Chief, "Wilkins I need you to send out the repair teams to the hull breaches on decks 7 and 8, starboard sections 21 through 32 Alpha and to the starboard nacelle. I will be down there shortly to take over the repairs." Wilkins replies with a quipped "Aye" before yelling at a crewman for using the wrong tools to fix the slightly damaged consoles in engineering. M'rel turns to head for the tubolift, as he walks across the bridge he says "If anyone needs me i will be in the lower decks fixing things."

[On Bridge.]

Recovering from the shock of impact, Chod climbs back up into his seat. Checking himself quickly, he hears the reports coming in.

"Well done all, but I think we need to have a word with Command about the realism of the test. That explosion was far greater than needed. Lets make sure everything is working and everyone is treated for any injuries, then move to ensure the Wa'Dich is stable. After that, make a pass of the planet to see what is there. Let's show them we can finish this off with some style and class."

[in sickbay]

Almost as soon as she finishes asking the counselor to join her, the ship was rocked. One of the burn victims fell off his biobed, while the rest were rolled about. She watched as some equipment fell onto the floor.

"I'm sorry, Counselor, we will have to continue this later." T`Lura turned to MO Clark. "Doctor, please call Bravo shift and have them prepared to report for duty. I am sure we will have various injuries, but numbers are unknown at present." T`Lura then turned to Technician Lombard. "Ms. Lombard, please see to the equipment. It needs to be secured." T`Lura then moved quickly over to the burn victim on the floor. "Mr. Gable, your assistance, please." With that, she bent over and, with Nurse Gable's assistance, helped the patient to his feet and back to his bed. As the staff began to put sickbay back into order, she commed the bridge.

"Captain, this is T`Lura. Are we under attack? Should we expect more disruptions?" 

While she talked, the doors to sickbay opened and the first casualty arrived - an apparent head injury, as blood was dripping from a cut on his scalp.

[heard over the intercom]

"Captain, this is T`Lura. Are we under attack? Should we expect more disruptions?"

[at the helm]

Moore hears the Captain's orders to make a pass by the rouge planet after repairs and any injuries are taken care of. He runs diagnostics on the controls & navigation equipment. After the routines run he calls Chief Stein. 
" Chief ? This is Moore. I've run my diagnostics up here and everything looks OK, but send somebody to the Navigation sensor suites to have a look around. Oh, check on the shuttle bays, too."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

"Stepping down from red alert," Jornas announces as the now familiar dimmed red lighting that had been flashing in the background fades to a more pleasant status. They had apparently done well in this simulation, and it was time to end it. Tapping his comm-badge, Jornas opens an instant communication to Sickbay, "Sickbay, this is Lt. Mazer, expect some possible wounded from both the Wa'Dich, and any surviving pirate ships. Expect some security on hand just in case either way. Mazer out." 

Opening a ship to ship comm., "I.K.S. Wa'Dich, this is the U.S.S. Broadsword. Do you require assistance? Please respond." Now, once again, it was the waiting game.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Turning to his subordinate, "Ms. Blaine, in case we do beam over any surviving pirates or injured [yet rowdy] Klingons, please dispatch a minute security force to Sickbay. Just to be on the safe side. Other than that, tie in tactical two to science one, and comb the area for any other possible threats. Let's be thorough on this one time only."

[in sickbay, preparing for casualties]

T`Lura pauses in her work as she is hailed from the bridge.

"Sickbay, this is Lt. Mazer, expect some possible wounded from both the
Wa'Dich, and any surviving pirate ships. Expect some security on hand just
in case either way. Mazer out."

Tapping her comm badge, she replies. "Understood, Lieutenant. If we get wounded, please remind any security detail to stand back, out of the way, so we may attend the injured." 

T`Lura turns back to the task at hand.

[Standing at tactical two]

Blaine turns slightly to Lt. Mazer, "Ms. Blaine, in case we do beam over any surviving pirates or injured [yet rowdy] Klingons, please dispatch a minute
security force to Sickbay. Just to be on the safe side. Other than that, tie
in tactical two to science one, and comb the area for any other possible
threats. Let's be thorough on this one time only." 

“Aye, Sir” she replies tapping the console to open a COM to security, “Blaine to Security” “Walker here, Sir” comes the reply. “Walker, dispatch three security officers to Sickbay immediately. Tell them to keep an eye on things down there and to stay out of the medical staff’s way. We may be transporting wounded from the Wa’Dich. Blaine, out” “Acknowledged, Sir” 

Blaine taps her console linking it with science station one and beings scanning the area for any possible threats approaching their coordinates. “Tactical two and Science one link established. Scanning now, Sir”

[On Bridge.}

"First thing when we are done here, I'm finding out who's bright idea it was to throw in that shock wave. Tests are fine, but placing the lives of the crew at risk is completely unacceptable. Ensign Rayton, isolate the sensor information from when the ship exploded. I know I'll need it for the report to Star Fleet."

Opening a Comm to Sickbay, he continues. "Doctor T'Lura, that shockwave was the result of an apparently overly exuberant test prepairer. To the best of our knowledge, that should be the end. Of course, to the best of our knowledge that shouldn't have even happened. Let me know if you need any additional help down there."

As Chod finishes, Captain Da'Chak appears on screen. "Broadsword, your help will not be necessary. Our systems are being restored as the test is over, at least as far as we are concerned. Enjoy your hunts. Perhaps we will meet in the future."

"Thank you Captain, may your journeys be filled with honor and profit." Chod answers as best as he can, almost positive he saw the Klingon shaking his head as the transmission ended.

"Allright, lets see what is on the planet so we can head home and find out who set this test up."

[Lawrence does some Thinking]

With the doctors' being Occupied with shockwaves and injuries, Kincy turned back to her patient alone.

She wasn't entirely sure why the others had taken such a long time to start acting paranoid, or why they were violently paranoid in the first place, but she was Intrigued.

Mays seemed to be on the mend, for the most part, so she assured him that she would be in the vicinity and stepped over to some of the other crewmen who had been on the freighter.

Before she sat down, though, she Thought about whether or not she should be on the Bridge, seeing as there were...

...oh, wait, shockwaves weren't exactly a shrink's line of work, she though happily, and sat down.

Baby-sitting potentially violent injured patients, unlike shockwaves, *was* a shrink's line of work...

[at the helm]

Chief Stein reports that everything looks OK in the navigation sensors & the shuttle bay. Moore says " Captain, setting course for the planet, ready to engage on your signal."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Mazer listened to the Captain talk to the Klingon Commanding Officer of the Wa'Dich who, as expected, did not wish any assistance for his vessel or his crew. The Captain then went on to give orders on the investigation of the nearby world which apparently holds some key to these war games. Obviously, the Ferengi Commanding Officer was annoyed ... perhaps even angry about how the war games turned out. This was his starship, a new one at that, and he was not intent on seeing it damaged during training. 

Jornas was annoyed as well. He had seen enough death and destruction during the war to not have the patience to deal with a training mishap. Starfleet often put the lives of its personnel at risk ... and they need not be risked during a training operation. "Lieutenant Blaine, work with science to scan the planet upon our approach," he states, anticipating the Captain's later requests in regard to the investigation. 

His inner science officer, long since put away in favor of tactical, somewhat tugged at him to take control of the planetary investigation. But as Chief of the tactical department, he had other responsibilities ... in this case going over the results of their little engagement himself before sending them off to whatever idiot had put them in this situation in the first place. For that he was willing to hand over the planet investigation to Ms. Blaine.

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine begins running scans of the area when a blip appears moving rapidly across her screen. Quickly she taps the console switching to the tactical scanners, which will enhance and continuously follow the blip, keeping it in the center of her display. “Captain, I have a possible threat vessel bearing 259 Mark 2 headed out of the system at warp 7.2. Attempting to extrapolate the origin now.” Blaine taps her console and waits a few moments as the computer calculates the trajectory and displays the results. “The vessel was launched from the planet, Sir,” she reports. “Trying to identify now.” She taps the console running the sensor data through the ship’s database. “Sir, the computer is unable to make a positive identification, due to insufficient data probably due to interference from the debris field blocking our sensors.”

"Lieutenant Blaine, work with science to scan the planet upon our approach." Lieutenant Mazer states with a tinge of irritation in his tone. “Aye, Sir” she replies as she switches her console back to the science sensors and begins scanning the planet. “Sir, scans of the planet indicate a small explosion occurred on the surface at almost the same time the test vessels collided. That would explain our mysterious shockwave.” “Ensign Rayton, please run a chemical analysis of the explosion residue in the atmosphere,” she requests.

Blaine feeds the sensor data into the computer and waits a moment for the results, “Taking into account the exact time of the vessels colliding and the explosion on the planet and calculating the time it takes a vessel of that size to launch, ascend through the atmosphere and adding the time it takes to reach it’s present position at warp 7.2, I estimate the vessel launched at just about the same time of the planet’s explosion,” she concludes as she takes a deep breath.

[at the helm]

Moore sets an alternative course to intercept the outbound ship sighted by Lt. Blaine, as a back up, just in case the Captain wants to pursue them first.

[in sickbay]

T`Lura moved over to the injured crewman, helping him onto a biobed, as she heard Captain Chod respond to her query.

"Doctor T'Lura, that shockwave was the result of an apparently overly exuberant test prepairer. To the best of our knowledge, that should be the end. Of course, to the best of our knowledge that shouldn't have even happened. Let me know if you need any additional help down there."

T`Lura replied quickly, "Understood, Captain. Sickbay out." and immediately began tending the cut on her shipmate's head. As it was not a bad cut, T`Lura was able to clean and close the wound in a few minutes. She then ran a series of tests for concussion and possible internal injuries. Finding them negative, she spoke her patient.

"Crewman, I would like for you to take your next shift off. Although not a serious injury, head wounds are not something to take lightly. Also, report to sickbay immediately if you experience any dizziness or nausea. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Doctor, understood," came his reply.

"Very well. Please stay in sickbay for a short observation period, after which Nurse Sawyer will escort you to your quarters."

"Thank you, Doctor."

T`Lura was about to continue her conversation with Counselor Lawrence when three security officers entered sickbay. Walking over, she quietly said, "Gentlemen, I understand the need for your presence, should we get injured from the hostile ships, but please do not interfere with our work." Nodding slighty, she walked over to Counselor Lawrence.

"Counselor, I have been giving the volatile behavior of our visitors some thought. There are two possibilities - the injuries have had a serious psychological affect on them, which would seem extraordinary for each to suffer the same, almost exact symptoms; or they are experiencing the effects of some kind of drug, possibly withdrawal symptoms. What are your thoughts, Counselor?"

[On Bridge.]

"Helm, bring us around the debris. I'm not sure what that ship is, but I get a feeling its not part of the Wargames. Keep sharp, something isn't right."

[At OPS station]

A small red right was blinking slowly, accompanied by a chirp from the console. Wolfe looked down, and noticed that we were receiving a transmission from the planet. 

“Captian, we are receiving a detress transmission from the planet.”

“Ens. Wolfe, let’s hear it.”

“Aye Sir.”

“.... This is ...... help..... please help us ...... “

"Sorry sir. That is all I got."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Following up on the Captain's statement, Jornas compares the sensor scans on the departing starship with the war games records. What he finds is not entirely surprising ... but none-the-less worth the quirking of an eyebrow.

"Sir, the departing vessel is definetly not part of our war games. It is not in the registry. I would suggest sending out information on the vessel to the nearest Starfleet vessels in case it is later encountered," Mazer states.

[at the helm]

Moore hears the Captain's order to move around the debris field. After hearing both Wolfe & Mazer's reports, Moore decides to move into a position to move either toward the planet or to pursue the ship. He keeps helm settings for both options on standby, an half turns in his chair towards the Captain, to make sure he can respond quickly, which ever choice is made.

[On Bridge.]

"OK, that decides whether we pursue the ship or not. Set a course for the planet, Ensign Moore. Ensign Wolfe, send a message to Starfleet about our departing friend, inform them we need to assist the test crew." Opening the channel to Sickbay, Chod continues. "Doctor, Counselor, simulation is being shut down. All new patients will be real. There is some kind of emergency at the planet, so more patients will be coming in."

Looking at the view screen, Chod muses "What would cause an explosion and an escaping ship from a test facility?"

[Standing at tactical station two]

Blaine looks up from her console and notices the CSO is not at her station but instead a relief science officer is on duty. “Ensign, please run a chemical analysis on the explosive residue in the atmosphere,” she repeats. “Acknowledged, running scans now,” he replies.

“Sir, the computer confirms the explosion on the surface was in fact real, not simulated. I suspect I will find the same results when I run the scans on the debris from the pirate vessels. It would seem we have accidentally stumbled into something here.”

“There are several possible scenarios working here,” she continues, “but one thing seems certain, whoever is in the fleeing ship set the explosives. The question is “Why?” One possibility is that the test facility isn’t a test facility at all but perhaps a front for some kind of factory manufacturing illegal or top secret product and the perpetrators were trying to destroy the evidence to keep us from discovering it. We should begin by accessing any information we have on the inhabitants of this planet, background information, major industries, etc, but more specifically who was working in the facility and what exactly were they doing there. We can find out more if we transported down to take a look, Sir.”

Blaine glances over to science station one, “Ensign, anything on those scans?” she asks. “Scans are registering hundreds of chemical compounds in the atmosphere. It’ll be a while before I can sort it out, Sir” replies the science officer. Blaine sighs in frustration, “Acknowledged, get back to me when you have something.”

She turns her attention back to the planetary scans of the explosion area thinking, “I wish I had paid a little more attention in my science classes.”

[at the helm]

" Setting course for the planet, Captain.", Moore says.

[in sickbay]

"Doctor, Counselor, simulation is being shut down. All new patients will be real. There is some kind of emergency at the planet, so more patients will be coming in," came Captain Chod's voice through the intercom.

Tapping her communicator, T`Lura responded. "Understood, Captain. As soon as you know what kind of emergency, please let us know. T`Lura out."

Within a few seconds, all holographic patients disappeared, leaving only the head injury patient. 

T`Lura spoke quietly, but her voice carried throughout sickbay. "Ladies, gentlemen, you heard Captain Chod." T`Lura paused as the doctors, nurses, and technicians turned to her. "We will be getting wounded from the planet. Please clean up from our simulated patients and run diagnostics on all equipment used. Any questions?" 

Seeing only head shakes, T`Lura nodded and turned back to Counselor Lawrence. "Counselor, would you like to accompany me to my office?"

[heard over the intercom]

"Understood, Captain. As soon as you know what kind of emergency, please let us know. T`Lura out."

[Lawrence gets MAD]

Kincaid nearly yelped as the holographic patients Disappeared.

She Totally HATED Real Life Situations that got in the way of Scientific Studies in the Simulated World. She was THIS CLOSE to figuring out -- or, at least, starting to figure out -- what was wrong with the freighter crew, and NOW this... oh, just BEAUTIFUL. Oh, this was just GREAT. This was the biggest IWK to EVER have happened since...

SHEESH!!! Just because her stupid neurons had been three picoseconds slower than everybody else's in firing, she would forever and A DAY live in Total Uncertainty about what had caused those crewmen to Act so Bizarrely, and it would be a Complete and Utter Disservice to Mental Health Practitioners Everywhere, especially to those who got Hit by a Suddenly Violent Patient!

Not only that, but this was THE SECOND TIME! She was sick of it! She was TOTALLY SICK of the fact that She Couldn't Run a Simple Scientific Experiement without GETTING INTERRUPTED!

"Yeah, I'll go into your office, Dr. T'Lura, and I'll CHOP THAT WHINY LITTLE PLANET'S.... uh, excuse me."

Kincy followed the Vulcan, but she hoped, for the sake of her patients, that no new patients would be beaming in any time soon, because she just might chop THEIR heads off, too...

[From Bridge, over intercom.]

"Of course Doctor. So far all we know is there is a distress call from the planet, and there was an explosion a few minutes back. We are enroute, and will give you more information as soon as we have it."

[On Bridge.]

Opening a channel to Sickbay, Chod tries to bring the Medical staff up to speed. "Of course Doctor. So far all we know is there is a distress call from the planet, and there was an explosion a few minutes back. We are enroute, and will give you more information as soon as we have it."

As he finishes, the distress call changes. "Hello, Wargame ship, uh, Broadsword was it? I need help. Artock took the SigMask unit, and blew out half the facility doing it. Our internal forcefields are holding in the atmosphere, but I don't know how long the batteries will hold out! Can you hear me?"

"We can hear you, and we are on our way. How many of you are there and are you injured?" Chod asks, trying to figure out what a SigMask is and what its value was.

"Uh, there are two of us left, after Artock that is. I've twisted my ankle, but am otherwise allright for now."

"Hold tight, we are on our way. Ensign Wolfe, see if you can lock onto his signal and beam them direct to Sickbay. Commander K'anis, take Mr. Mazer, Mr. M'Rel, and a repair team to see if you can secure their station. If you need to, take a shuttle to supply power to their systems while you make repairs." Chod looks at the facility coming into view. "And see if you can find out what happened..."

"Doctor, we have 2 incoming. One is reporting a twisted ankle, both are likely suffering from exposure. They should be here shortly and they will be beamed straight to Sickbay."

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Mazer looks at the alien on the viewscreen, and tries to find any hints of deceit. But as a Trill, he is not gifted with telepathic abilities ... nor is he much of a psychologist. The Captain seemingly agrees to help them, and orders the XO to take him, and a few others, down to the surface to render assistance. 

Mazer turns to his subordinate who is at tactical two, "Ms. Blaine, take over tactical for me while I am gone. I will endeavor to keep an open comm. link with you, just for security matters." 

With that said, he moves over to Commander K'anis.

[On the Bridge, at Tactical]

Mazer looks at the alien on the viewscreen, and tries to find any hints of deceit. But as a Trill, he is not gifted with telepathic abilities ... nor is he much of a psychologist. The Captain seemingly agrees to help them, and orders the XO to take him, and a few others, down to the surface to render assistance. 

Mazer turns to his subordinate who is at tactical two, "Ms. Blaine, take over tactical for me while I am gone. I will endeavor to keep an open comm. link with you, just for security matters." 

With that said, he moves over to Commander K'anis.
[Standing at tactical two]

"Ms. Blaine, take over tactical for me while I am gone. I will endeavor to keep an open comm link with you, just for security matters."

Blaine turns as she hears the order, "Aye, Sir" she replies as she begins setting up tactical station one by transfering the data from tactical station two so she may resume her scans of the explosion area. "Good luck, Sir."

[Conducting repairs in Main Engineering]

As M'rel starts to finish patching up the damage that last unexpalined explosion caused during the scenario he calls up to the Bridge, "Engineering to Bridge... Captain, I have finished the repairs to the ship within acceptable parameters. Master Chief Wilkins and his repair crews have helped with minimizing the damage that was caused during the attack and have helped speed up repairs effeciently. I have determined that the Engineering crew can finish cleaning up with out my help, is there anything you require me to do?"

[On Bridge.]

Opening the Intercom to Main Engineering, Chod answers. "Yes Ensign M'Rel, we will likely need your assistance on the planet. Join Commander K'anis for an Away Team. Likely structural damage, priority is to stabilize the facility down there so we can figure out what happened."

[at the helm]

Moore puts the ship into geosynchronous(did I spell that right?) orbit above the base. He also runs a projection on the navigational sensors of the flight path of the fleeing ship in case it might be needed later. As the computer does its thing, he leans back in his chair and thinks " Coffee, I need coffee bad."

[in her office]

T`Lura was just heading to her chair when the Captain's voice came over the intercom.

"Doctor, we have 2 incoming. One is reporting a twisted ankle, both are likely suffering from exposure. They should be here shortly and they will be beamed straight to Sickbay."

T`Lura responded, "Understood, Captain" and turned to Counselor Lawrence. "I guess we will have to speak later, Counselor. We have wounded incoming. If you would like to stay in sickbay, you would be welcome." 

T`Lura walked quickly into sickbay and spoke to her small crew, "We will have two injured arriving shortly. One has an ankle injury, both may have exposure symptoms. Mr. Gable, please get the necessary equipment prepared."

T`Lura paused as another voice was heard over the intercom. 

"Doctor, this is Ens. Wolfe. Initializing transport now."

T`Lura watched as the two injured materialized in sickbay. Clark and Lombard quickly moved to put each on a biobed. Clark nodded to the patient on the left bed, indicating he would minister to that one, and set to work. T`Lura walked to the patient in the right bed, tapping her comm badge as she did. 

"Ensign, this is sickbay. Both patients have transporter successfully. Sickbay out."
[heard over intercom]

"Ensign, this is sickbay. Both patients have transporter successfully. Sickbay out."

[On Bridge.]

Hearing the report from Doctor T'Lura that the patients have arrived, Chod returns to his seat and prepares a report to Star Fleet on the situation.

To: Star Fleet Command
From: Captain Chod, USS Broadsword
Re: Training mission update

Admirals,
During our battle drill operation, an unexpected situation developed that is obviously not part of the normal drill. During the simulated battle with the pirate vessels, one of them exploded in real space, not just in the simulation. The shockwave was severe enough to cause some injuries on board. While this could normally be attributed to an accident, at the same time an explosion occured on the planet/ base and a vessel launched that base personnel report as being piloted by Artock. They also report that he stole the Sigmask, although I am uncertain exactly what the Sigmask is. We are currently moving to assist the station, and will update soon.

Sending the report to Star Fleet, Chod opens a comm to Sickbay. "Doctor, as soon as our guests have sufficiently recovered, I need to speak with them."

[Lawrence, less MAD, returns to the Bridge, where she will pretend to be a wallpaper]

Seeing as the Doctor would be Occupied and everything, Kincaid acknowledged T'Lura's suggestion to postpone their discussion until later (though, with the Disappearance of the crewmen, there really didn't seem any Point) and took the turbolift to the Bridge (she figured that she would rather not deal with patients -- or Stewart Large -- in her current state of mind).

Once on the Bridge, she managed to squash her face into an expression of, "I'm just ducky, I'm very properly professionally cool, I'm not mad At All" and sat down in her chair, looking for all the world as if she hadn't even Left.

Yes, thought Kincaid, she should definitely be nominated for an Emmy, at least.

[Listening to the Captain's response]

"Yes Ensign M'rel, we will likely need your assistance on the planet. Join Commander K'anis for an Away Team. Likely structural damage, priority is to stabilize the facility down there so we can figure out what happened."

"Aye Captain, myself and 2 technicians will meet the Commander in the transporter room," says M'rel as he retrieves the required gear and calls crewman Gunj and chief Marthon to come with him to the transporter. He quickly fills them in on what might be expected at the station. He calls back to the Master Chief "Keep things together until I get back." Wilkins replies with a big grin, "I always do sir."

[Arriving in Transporter Room One]

Mazer arrives in the transporter room with his selected group of three security personnel. All are armed with typical type two phasers, Jornas having decided not to alarm anyone with larger weapons [such as the Type III or Type III-A phaser rifles]. He walks over to one of the side cabinets, and removes a tricorder. Jornas, still the science officer at heart, always has the need to know what is going on at all times. And the tricorder should help in this.

Turning to his personnel, "Stay on guard at all times. We do not know much about the situation ... and it would not beneficial for anyone if someone were to get the jump on us. However, that is not to say we should be paranoid over there. Your primary job is to scout the area, and protect the remainder of the away team. Phasers on stun." 

His personnel nod ... and Jornas smiles inside. It feels good to have a well-taught security force under his control. Looking around, he decides its time to wait for Commander K'anis and the others to arrive.

[On the bridge, following up the events unfolding]

The Antican had his furry ears straight upright at this unexpected turn of events.

They were participating in a wargame drill alongside with a Klingon BOP against a fleet of pirates. The pirate ships, although outnumbering the Federation vessel, posed no match to the muscle of an Akira-class. The Broadsword showed what she came to. Or almost.

Things got weird when one of the pirate ships, supposedly simulated, actually blew up and caused minor to moderate damage to the Broadsword. Then an explosion on the surface of a near-by planet is detected, as well as an unidentified fleeing craft.

They were contacted by the remaining occupants of what the crew learned was a scientific outpost. "Too odd we did not got word of such an installation in our wargames drill area", thought K'anis. The Captain acknowledged the distress call from the station and decided in favor of salvaging whatever was possible, instead of chasing the departing ship.

The first officer inwardly agreed with such a decision. Anticans were a race of pack hunters, but they never left one of their keen behind defenseless. After giving orders to Mr. Wolfe at Operations, the Ferengi turned to K'anis.

"Commander K'anis, take Mr. Mazer, Mr. M'Rel, and a repair team to see if you can secure their station. If you need to, take a shuttle to supply power to their systems while you make repairs." Chod looks at the facility coming into view. "And see if you can find out what happened..."

Already on his feet, K'anis nods in acknowledgement. "Yes, sirr. Immediately.", he says and turns to find Lieutenant Mazer surrendering his station to Blaine. "Mrr. Mazerr, select a small securrity group to accompany us. Arm them as you see fit. I anticipate no confrrontations down therre, but it surrely won't hurrt to be on the safe side. Meet me in Transporter Room 1 in 10 minutes"

Mazer efficiently acknowledges the Antican and leave the bridge and K'anis returns to the Captain's side. "Sirr, I'd also suggest we contact Command regarrding these recent events. They may have anotherr vessel that can interrcept the fleeing craft."

After Chod's reply, K'anis leave the bridge and takes a turbolift straight to the TR. Each minute they loose can make a difference to those down there. And more importantly, saving them is possibly saving the answers and clues to this newly-found mystery.

[Steps onto the TR#1]

K'anis enters the TR in a rush to find the CTO already there with his group. Good, thought the first officer.

"How are the beaming conditions?", the Antican asked the transporter operator.

"I've got some severe radiation interferrence in most of the facility.", replied the officer. "But I squared down a couple of spots that I can get a fairly clean window for beaming the Away Team here and here." - he pointed to the schematic display on his board.

K'anis observed that both were practically across the facility from the computer core, one of their main targets in the salvage operations. It was of utter importance that they get the logs for the station if they wanted to know what was going on here and what went wrong.

"Trry and put us herre", K'anis indicated the most secure of the two locations. It was of no use to take foul chances in that hazzardous environment. He then turned to the away team. "Seems we arre going to trry out the brrand new environmental suits of the Brroadsword", he commented. "As soon as Mrr. M'rrel gets herre we are leaving."

[Finishing suiting up]

As K'anis makes final checks on his environmental suit, a contingency plan crosses his mind. He moves to the nearest comm panel and contacts the bridge.

"Mrr. Wolfe, this is K'anis. Please, have a cargo shuttle ready for immediate launch in case we need a last minute rescue and transporters are unavailable." said K'anis over the internal communication system.

[ on the bridge at the science station ]

"I have pinpointed where the explosion had took place, it appears that it originated in the hanger area. Even though it was a large explosion and had caused damage it appears that the atmosphere in the facility is intact." Lana reported from her latest scans of the facility.

[In Transporter Room One]

As per Commander K'anis' order, Mazer and the other security personnel begin to put on the specified suits. Upon doing so, Mazer presses a button on his arm unit control, opening a comm. unit to the other suits. "This is Mazer, testing one two three." 

The other security personnel acknowledge his comm. [and perhaps eventually the remainder of the away team]. With that settled, he establishes a comm. with the bridge, "Lieutenant Blaine, this is Lieutenant Mazer. I am testing the comm. between the AT and yourself. Do you copy?" 

Just to make sure everything is in order, Mazer assures himself.

[Standing at tactical station one]

"Lieutenant Blaine, this is Lieutenant Mazer. I am testing
the comm. between the AT and yourself. Do you copy?"

"Loud and clear, Sir. Good luck."

[waliking into the Transporter Room]

M'rel walks into the TR with a couple of techs following closely behind. "Commander K'anis, Lt. Mazer." He nods to them both repectively.

[at the helm]

Moore takes this quiet time ( for him, anyway) to run diagnostics on the helm, and checks in with the flight deck. " Chief Stein, make sure we've got a pilot on standby in case they need a shuttle down on the planet."

[in sickbay, tending the Real patients]

T`Lura quickly began a scan of her patient, attempting to determine the extent of his injuries. Low-level exposure to radiation, mild dehydration, and a bruised left ankle. Nothing life-threatening or even serious, which was borne out by the man’s jovial attitude.

“Doctor,” he began, “thank you for your help. I’m all right, except for this ankle.” He pointed to his left foot.

“I concur with your assessment,” T`Lura replied as she ran a dermal regenerator over the man’s left foot. “This will only take a moment and you should feel no ill effects from your injury. However, I would like you to remain in sickbay until your electrolyte levels have returned to normal.” 

“Whatever you say, Doc,” came his response.

T`Lura nodded and turned away from her charge. Just then, the captain’s voice was heard over the intercom.

"Doctor, as soon as our guests have sufficiently recovered, I need to speak with them."

T`Lura tapped her communicator. “Captain,” she said, looking from one patient to the other, “their injuries were not that severe. You may come to sickbay at now, if that is your wish. They will be staying here for the time being.”

On Bridge.]

Hearing Dr. T'Lura's response over the comm, “Captain, their injuries were not that severe. You may come to sickbay at now, if that is your wish. They will be staying here for the time being.”, Chod takes a look around the Bridge. While the other officers on the Bridge were young, scans showed nothing threatening in the immediate area. He should have the time.

"Lieutenant Blaine, you have the Bridge. I'm going to speak with our new guests and see what happened down there. Notify my the second anything happens or if we hear from the Away Team. Counselor, would you care to join me? There are a few patients who may require your assistance."

Turning to the Turbo Lift, Chod enters and requests Sickbay.

[Standing at tactical station one]

Blaine looks up in surprise as she hears the Captain, “Lieutenant Blaine, you have the Bridge. I'm going to speak with our new guests and see what happened down there. Notify me the second anything happens or if we hear from the Away Team.” “Aye, Sir!” she replies a bit excitedly, her eyes widening in surprise.

“Wow, I have the Bridge!” she thinks. Turning she motions a relief officer to take over the tactical station and after mumbling a few instructions, she turns to move to the center chair, stubbing her toe on the tactical console and stumbling down the two stairs leading to the command deck. Oblivious to the stares from the Bridge officers, she sits down on the edge of the seat, feeling her bottom slide backwards along the soft leather upholstery. Placing her hands on the armrests she unconsciously looks down and watches as her hands slide along the length of the armrests, feeling the grain of the leather against her palms. “Maybe someday…” she thinks, “Maybe someday…”

Tapping the control panel next to the command chair she resumes monitoring the long-range scans of the area, always looking for possible threat vessels.

“Ensign Rayton, anything yet on the chemical analysis of the atmosphere?” she asks without looking up from the console.

[at the helm]

When Moore hears the Captain turn the bridge over to Lt. Blaine, for some odd reason it reminds him that the FCO is the bridge's liason to engineering when no engineering officer is on the bridge. He looks at the engineering station on the bridge.

{If there is no officer at the Engineering consol}

Moore sees no one there, so he links the engineering consol to the helm.

{If an officer is there}

Moore nods to the officer at engineering, sighs, and turns back to the helm.

[Sitting in the command chair]

As Blaine watches the long-range sensor monitor she sees a movement out of the corner of her eye. Without moving her eyes from the monitor she asks, "Mr, Moore, status report, please."

[at the helm]

Moore nearly jumps out of his chair when Lt. Blaine speaks. He looks over his console and says,"Lt., we are still in geosynchronous orbit, all systems are go, and the away team is assembled in Transporter Room One, but they haven't beamed down yet."

[Sitting in the command chair]

"Thank you, Mr. Moore." she replies, her eyes still glued to the long-range sensor monitor. "Have you plotted an escape course? I mean, it never hurts to be prepared, right?"

[ on the Bridge at the Science station]

"The information is coming in now Lt.," Lana said pausing to bring up the information. " The planet itself has no atmosphere. And the atmosphere inside the facility is stable as long as the forcefeilds down there hold. Scans detect no hazardous gases or anything that would harm the awayteam."

[Sitting in the command chair]

"Thank you, Ensign, however I was trying to findout what chemical traces were present in the atmosphere after the explosion in order to determine what type of explosives may have been used on the planet surface. I believe your assistant was working on the analysis prior to your return to duty. Please check with him and find out if he has come up with anything even remotely resembling explosive substances."

Blaine turns back to the console and switches her scans back to the planet preparing to keep her eagle eye on the away team.

[Lawrence prances along to Sickbay!]

"Aye, sir," the Counsellor replied to the Captain's Invitation to accompany him to Sickbay to speak to The Injured and The Brave.

Kincaid tried her best not to appear TOO happy that the Captain had asked her along.

After all, should her services be needed, it would mean that her patients were Emotionally Distressed, and it would be completely Unseemly to be so Excited about the whole situation.

Also, and this preyed on her mind a bit more, she was giving up her One Opportunity in Life to get an Oscar for Best Actress. How was she going to Justify this to her parents? How could she Explain to them that she couldn't give the Acceptance Speech because she had not, in fact, been Nominated?! How could she possibly be a Best Actress for her Portrayal of a Professional Counsellor when, in fact, she was REALLY a Professional Counsellor and FEELING like one?!

That was when she realised that there was Immediate Work to be Done and that, in fact, not only her career as an actress, but her career as a wallpaper as well, had ended (at least for the moment).

So, unwallpapering herself from her seat, Kincaid stood up and followed the Captain into the turbolift, almost slamming her nose into the door on the way in (fortunately, her nose was so short that it didn't get slammed...).

[ on the bridge and the science station]

" Scans indicate no signs of any explosive residue. It appear the explosion was caused by phaser fire to the shuttlebay doors." Lana reported.

[at the helm]

Moore replies to Lt. Blaine. "Escape course has been plotted, ready to be executed on your mark, if needed Lt.."

[Sitting in the command chair]

"Escape course has been plotted, ready to be executed on your mark, if needed Lieutenant" comes the reply from the helm officer. "Very good, Mr. Moore,” she acknowledges.

Blaine looks to the Science Station as she hears the response from the CSO, "Scans indicate no signs of any explosive residue. It appears the explosion was caused by phaser fire to the shuttlebay doors,” she reports.

Standing from the chair, she walks over to Science Station one, "Could you check your analysis again, Ensign Rayton? The explosion on the planet surface caused a shockwave strong enough to send us flying out of control. Even if they used a phaser, there had to have been something they hit that caused an explosion large enough to cause a shockwave."

Blaine nods to the Ensign and turns then walks back to the command chair and sits down. She taps the console and begins looking over the chemical analysis of the atmosphere. "I hope Lt. Mazer is able to find uncover some clues as to what caused the explosion,” she thinks.

[Arriving on the Station]

The transporter beam took ahold of Mazer and the remainder of the away team, instantly spiriting them from the Broadsword and to the planetary station that needed their assistance. His security personnel instantly draw their phasers and slowly move out along the corridor they have arrived in. Leaving his own phaser holstered, Mazer took out a tricorder and began to scan the area. 

The results were almost instantaneous ... there was nothing out of the ordinary here. No life signs either ... but that was to be expected as the inhabitants had been beamed out to the Broadsword's sickbay, "Mr. Wurdoch. You'll take point for this expedition ... Mr. Davids & Ka'Leil, you'll remain with us." 

Turning to the XO & CEO, Mazer reports, "Commander, scans of the immediate area suggest nothing out of the ordinary. I've confirmed that all personnel were beamed up to the Broadsword for medical treatment and for investigation. Shall we proceed?"

[on the bridge at the science station]

Lana went back and checked the sensor readings at the time of the shock wave, "Lt. sensor logs at the time of the shockwave show that the shockwave was from the nearby vessel exploding. The explosion on the planet was small, detectable but not a threat to the ship," Laan reported.

[Sitting in the command chair]

Blaine looks to Science Station One as she listens to the CSO's report on the cause of the shockwave. "So, what you are telling me is that those two pirate vessels who collided with each other were in fact real ships and not holographic, correct?" she asks.

[on the bridge at the science station]

"Yes Lt. they were real ships at least according to sensors and that shockwave that hit us."

[Materializing...]

As the anullar confinement beam releases its hold on the Antican, K'anis takes in his surroundings.

Efficiently, the security officers had made sure the perimeter was secure. The lights were dimmed, mostly sure due to the power loss from the explosion.

Mazer informs the XO that there's no other personell in the facility and asks wether they should proceed.

"Yes, Lieutenant. Let's move on since the Brroadsworrd has taken in the injurred already. Mrr. M'rrel, take your team to the arrea of the explosion and assess the situation therre. Inforrm me immediately of yourr findings and begin repairrs as needed"

After the CEO's reply, the Antican turns to Mazer. "Chief, let's get to theirr science labs and computerr centerr. Inforrmation will surrely be found therre"

[at the beam down site being released from the transporter]

M'rel checks his surroundings and already sees some of the damage from the explosion. He asseses the damage to more efficiently prioritize what needs to be done. Hearing the XO tell him and his techs to get to work he responds "Aye sir, Crewman Gunj and Chief Marthon let's work on the structural integrity of the station first and then try and get these lights to work a tad bit better." He thinks to himself, "Working in the dark is very nerve racking in a deserted place like this."

[Sitting in the command chair]

"Thank you, Ensign." Blaine replies as she leans back in the chair. "What the heck is going on here?" she asks herself as she tries to go over the facts of the situation in her mind.

"We were ordered on a routine training exercise to check out the weapons and propulsion systems. Upon our arrival we rendezvoused with the Wa'Dich, a Klingon vessel and our ally in this exercise. Sensors them detected a battle ensuing between a freighter and four pirate vessels. We move to intercept. The Wa'Dich takes off after two of the pirate vessels while the other two broke off their attack and fled. We transport aboard the freighter and find a drunken Captain, several injured crew and discover the pirates had boarded his vessel and made off with several barrels of wine and other assorted cargo.”

“We transport back to the Broadsword to move to assist the Wa'Dich who had engaged the two pirate vessels and was taking heavy damage from the battle. Two additional pirate vessels enter into the battle, presumably the same two vessels that fled the scene earlier. We open fire on the two vessels causing their navigational systems to go offline, resulting in them colliding into one another completely destroying both vessels. The vessels turn out to be real and not holographic as we had assumed.”

“At the same time a small explosion occurred on the planet surface and sensors detected an unidentified vessel warping out of the system. A computer extrapolation revealed the vessel launched from the area of the explosion just minutes prior to the explosion.”

“In communication with the station, we were informed that someone by the name of “Artok” was piloting the unknown fleeing vessel. Artok had caused the explosion on the station and stolen an object called a “Sigmask” whatever that is.”

“We dispatch an away team to the planet surface where they find two injured aliens. The aliens are transported to our Sickbay while Cmdr. K’anis, Lt. Mazer, Ensign M’Rel and his engineering team are busy with the investigation of the explosion and effecting repairs to their systems.”

“Now, these are the known facts of the situation. How do they piece together?” she asks herself.

Blaine stands from the command chair and turns to Science Station One, "Ensign, what did your scans of the debris field reveal?"

[on the bridge at the science station]

Lana didn't even look up from her console and turned to anothe screenr to bring up the sensor scans of the debris. " Everything appears normal, hull fragments, traces of deuterium, asorted bits of ship components." she said turning to the Lt. "The only thing that sensors are picking up that is alittle lets say strange is that their appears to be a great deal more explosive material then there would be expected."

[Standing in front of Science Station One]

Deep in thought as the CSO checks the analysis on the debris field Blaine is suddenly jolted back to reality at the sound of Ensign Rayton’s voice. "Everything appears normal, hull fragments, traces of deuterium, assorted bits of ship components. The only thing that sensors are picking up that is a little let’s say strange is that their appears to be a great deal more explosive material then there would be expected."

Blaine quickly makes her way around the console next to Ensign Rayton and looks down to the monitor at the analysis, “Well, now we’re getting somewhere. What type of explosive material is it?”

The numbers on the screen quickly scroll as the computer completes its cycle. She watches as the CSO taps the console displaying a graph of the chemical analysis and waits for the CSO to show her exactly which explosive material was found on the hull fragments and in what quantities. “Were the greatest concentrations of explosive residue found on the hull fragments from the aft, bow or mid section of the ships? Is this explosive material normal for this kind of ship or could it possibly have been cargo they had on board?” Blaine pauses a few moments before asking, “Did you find any evidence of wine in your analysis?”

[stepping through an open hatch]

M'rel takes out his engineering issue tricorder as he steps carefully into another compartment, one not fairing much better than the one he just came from. Scanning around the room he notices some trace elements from the recent explosion, he rechecks his findings a second and third time before actually believing what his tricorder was "sensing". He taps his comm badge to contact his XO.

"Ensign M'rel to Commander K'anis. I have found something very interesting, my tricorder is picking up a residual trace of small yield plasma grenades and a low powered phaser. I would assume that whatever happened here was a very calculated attack. I would believe that the intention was what would be called a "hit and run", quickly get what was sought causing little damage then get out of the station as quickly as possible. I am going to attempt to get power restored enough to check the internal sensors during the time of attack and hopefully also see if there are any visual or audio records of any kind stored in the computer."

[On the Station]

As the Chief heads off to begin repairs, Mazer motions for his personnel to take point while he and Commander K'anis begin moving toward the science labs. His mind is wandering for the moment ... wondering how exactly they went from performing war games to investigating this in such short time. 

"Commander, what exactly do you think is going on here?" he asks.

[Entering Sickbay.] 

In the Turbolift, Chod had been trying to guess just what a Sigmask is and why someone would want it. Not that guessing would help much. He'd have his answer in a few moments. "Counselor, our chief duty here is to figure out just what happened. If you guess anything is amiss, or want to jump in with a question, feel free." 

Entering Sickbay, Chod moves to the Beds with the 2 patients. One of them, wearing Commander's Pips, is sitting up, obviously expecting a visit. The other 1 is looking away, trying to look like they are just resting. However, they are all agitated. Maybe he was just upset at the attack? 

In the human fashion, Chod extends his hand and says "Commander, I'm Captain Chod. Sorry for the abrubtness, but what happened down there?" 

The Commander shifts a bit before answering. "He took the Sigmask...the Signal masking device that lets our wargame ships take on the sensor signature of whatever ship they are supposed to 'be'. Normally that wouldn't be a problem, but this one was...special. Designed not to just create a signal for the ship set up for the Wargame. This one could mask its signature to any ship." 

"Why would Starfleet have such a device on one of its test facilities? Or would it be safe to guess that it wasn't originally built that way?" Chod can't believe what it would mean if this were true. Such a ship would be almost impossible to find. 

"No, we modified it for a run to Tellax last year. Didn't have leave, so we made it look like we were merchants on a normal run. We called it a test, at least among ourselves. Some test, I guess we failed." 

"Yes, it appears you did. Of course I'll have to inform Star Fleet of this, and for right now you are all confined to Sickbay until further notice." 

Turning, Chod heads to Dr. T'Lura. "Doctor, as you said, these men are not to leave Sickbay. Security will be posted soon to ensure that they do not leave. If they give any trouble, let me know."

[at the helm]

Moore is finally coming down from the adrenalin rush from the battle with the pirates and things that were said around him start popping into his head. He thinks to himself " Did we leave a couple of crewmen on that freighter when we went to the Klingons' aid? Which way was it heading?" He decides to see if he can find it on the navigational sensors.

[Walking to the Science Labs]

With Mazer tagging along, K'anis and a few security guards made their way to the science labs of the compound. The Antican's commbadge chirped.

"Cmdr. K'anis, this is Ens. M'rel", came the CEO's voice over the link. He informed the XO of his findings regarding the kind of weaponry used and a possible modus operandi for the criminals, hit and run. K'anis had to agree with his accessment.

"Very good, ensign. Please proceed with yourr suggestion. Scrreen the interrnal securrity camera's logs and try and identify the aggressors if you can. Mazer and I will be investigating their databanks in the science labs.", replyied K'anis.

[Entering SciLab1]

A short walk later, the CTO and himself entered the laboratory. It was a mess. No detective was needed to tell them the criminals had been there, searching (and possibly finding) something of importance.

The said 'sigmask', whatever that was.

"Commander, what exactly do you think is going on here?", Mazer asks him. There was no good answer for that right now.

"I'm uncerrtain as well, Lieutenant. At this point I can't find anything that tells me wether the explosion was a result of our unexpected - to the criminals - presence in the area, or if they were running their plans and by coincidence we got past here at the exact time to allow us to detect them."

Moving among the debris scattered through the ground, the Antican made his way to what once was a LCARS interface. "Here", he called Mazer over. "I think this unit can be restored to power. Let's try to put it online and search for 'sigmask' "

[Lawrence grills the Commander. No, not THAT kind of grill!!!]

Chod had stepped over to Dr. T'Lura for the time being. Kincaid followed; and, after Dr. T'Lura had received her orders, Kincaid made a request of her own.

"Do you mind if I put up a sound barrier field around that patient's biobed?" she asked, nodding slightly toward the Commander. "You can monitor if you like, of course," she added to the Captain, "but..." -- she lowered her voice -- "...I want to keep the other patients from hearing what we're saying."

{if the sound barrier is allowed}

Kincaid sat down next to the patient's biobed. It was a lot more calming for most patients if she weren't staring down at them (not that she was all *that* tall, but...). She would start with him, since most high-ranking officials seemed to want to be addressed before their subordinates.

"Commander," she said, her voice gentle and as soothing as she could make it, "I'd like to hear more about the person who stole the sigmask. Can you tell me more about what happened, and why he took off with it?"

{if the sound barrier is not allowed}

Kincaid chewed her lip, assessing the situation. The Commander's injuries, T'Lura had reported, were pretty minor. Even with a bad ankle, he could be moved safely...

"In that case," she said to the Captain and the Doctor, "would it be permissible to move the patient to a more private location, perhaps one of the conference rooms?"

[On the Station, in the Science Labs]

While the security personnel secure the labs, Commander K'anis and Mazer move forward to an apparent computer terminal. K'anis had just requested his assistance in powering up the console and determining what exactly 'sigmask' was. 

Mazer kneels next to the terminal, and easily pries open the back. Going back to his minor engineering cross-training from his academy days [and his days of working as a Science Officer with his own console repairs during the war on the late U.S.S. Mercury], he soon figures out that some of the power processing had been fried in whatever caused the damage. With delicate hand maneuvering, he pulls out the wires connected to the isolinear chips from their main power connection. 

"Just one moment, Commander, I should have this set up," he grunts out as he picks up his phaser, and opens the casing ... then pulling out the power pack. There is small whine from the phaser as it shuts down, and he opens the pack delicately. Taking the wires, he gently inserts them where needed in the pack, and then places the small object into the panel itself so it won't disconnect.

"Chief M'rel who?" he jokes with a smile, standing up. "It should work now, sir." He reports, pressing a button on the side. 

The screen is dark for a moment ... and then suddenly activates to the surprise of Mazer. Various lines of information scroll up, indicating the activation of whatever computer system the terminal was hooked up to. A moment or two later, a box appears, indicating for him to input a search item.

Cracking his knuckles, Mazer types in 'sigmask' via the keyboard. There is a momentary flashing on the computer screen ... and then new information scrolls up. Mazer blinks, not really expecting this at all. 

"Sir, sigmask is apparently a system used to create false communications signatures for starships participating in the war games," he reports, and then upon further contemplation. "I remember R & D considering using something like this during the war ... to throw off the Jem'Hadar. Apparently Dominion sensors were too advanced, and it didn't work. Guess they threw it to the trainers ..." 

Tapping his comm. - badge, he sends a message to the Broadsword, and more specifically, Lt. Blaine, "Lt. Blaine, we have found data on 'sigmask.' It is a system used by war games personnel to modify the comm. signs of vessels participating in the games itself. Please relay that to the Captain." 

With that completed, Mazer looked around and wondered what was going to happen next.

[in the room adjacent to the beam down point]

"Aye sir, I should have the information for you in a little bit." M'rel tapps a few touch points on the "keyboard." The room suddenly lights up. "Now I know I didn't do that...."

[In Sickbay.]

"Certainly Counselor, a sonic shield is a good idea as long as the security personnel I am sending can see them. Try and find out if there is anything we missed, as I'm sure Star Fleet will want a full report. I'm heading to my Ready Room to file a report if you learn anything new."

As Chod leaves, the Commander becomes a bit more relaxed. "Well Counselor, my Chief Engineer decided he could live the life if he had the Sigmask. I'm not sure what he's going to do with it. I know there are about 3 things that pop to my mind without thinking of it. He was always talking about getting his own ship and cruising the space lanes looking for fun. Honestly though, I'm thinking he would sell the thing. Smugglers would pay a fortune for that thing, not to mention other low lifes." Shaking his head, he leans back onto the bed. "What a way to end ones career, don't you think?"

[In Sickbay.]

"Certainly Counselor, a sonic shield is a good idea as long as the security personnel I am sending can see them. Try and find out if there is anything we missed, as I'm sure Star Fleet will want a full report. I'm heading to my Ready Room to file a report if you learn anything new."

As Chod leaves, the Commander becomes a bit more relaxed. "Well Counselor, my Chief Engineer decided he could live the life if he had the Sigmask. I'm not sure what he's going to do with it. I know there are about 3 things that pop to my mind without thinking of it. He was always talking about getting his own ship and cruising the space lanes looking for fun. Honestly though, I'm thinking he would sell the thing. Smugglers would pay a fortune for that thing, not to mention other low lifes." Shaking his head, he leans back onto the bed. "What a way to end ones career, don't you think?"

[Standing at Science Station One]

Blaine waits rather impatiently for Ensign Rayton to find the answers to her many questions regarding the explosive residue on the hull fragments when the relief officer at tactical informs her of an incoming message from Lieutenant Mazer, “Lieutenant Blaine, Lieutenant Mazer is hailing, Sir.” “Very well, transfer it to the command console” she replies as she moves quickly to the command chair and taps the console. “Blaine here, Sir.” "Lt. Blaine, we have found data on 'Sigmask.' It is a system used by war games personnel to modify the comm. signs of vessels participating in the games itself. Please relay that to the Captain." “Aye, Sir, right away, Sir” she relies.

Blaine stands from the command chair and takes one step towards the Science Station then freezes in her tracks as her head quickly turns to the back of the Bridge in time to see the Captain appear from the turbolift, "Lieutenant Blaine, I'll be out in a minute," he states as he walks quickly to his Ready Room. “Aye, Sir, but I’ve just heard from Lieu...ten..ant…May....zerrr…” her voice trailing off as the doors to the Ready Room slide shut. “Boy, Ferengi sure walk fast! Must be those stubby legs,” she thinks as she continues to the Science Station.

Stepping up to the console next to Ensign Rayton, she watches as the CSO analyzes the graph and waits for an answer to all her questions. 

A few minutes pass and the Captain walks quickly out of the Ready Room, "Lieutenant Blaine, we have a change in plans. Star Fleet wants this station sealed until their investigation team arrives. I need you to prepare a couple of quarantine buoys and when our team is back, send the following code to the station. It will initiate the shield." The Captain hands her a PADD with the code and other details on the system. “Aye, Sir but I’ve just heard from Lieutenant Mazer on the surface. He asked me to relay to you that they have discovered what the “Sigmask” is, Sir. He said it is a system used by war games personnel to modify the comm signs of vessels participating in the games.” 

Holding the PADD up she turns, not waiting for a response from the Captain and states “I’ll get right on these buoys, Sir” making her way back to tactical station one and relieving the officer on duty.

Blaine taps the control console preparing the quarantine buoys then inputs the code into her console in preparation to send the signal to the station once it is secured.

[at the helm]

Just as Moore finds the freighter on course to its destination, and Moore shrugs and thinks " Oh well, that's a dead end.", The Captain reenters the bridge then enters the ready room. When the Captain exits the ready room, he orders Moore to set course for Starbase 13. Moore inputs the course and says, "Course for Starbase 13 set and ready to engage on your command. Sir."

[in sickbay, with the freighter's injured]

T`Lura stood to the side as Captain Chod spoke with the freighter's ranking crewmember. She kept a close eye on his vitals and noticed the more he talked with Captain Chod, the more elevated his blood pressure became. 

T`Lura looked at the Captain as he addressed her. "Doctor, as you said, these men are not to leave Sickbay. Security will be posted soon to ensure that they do not leave. If they give any trouble, let me know."

"Of course, sir. However, I do not think more security," T`Lura glanced at the two officers flanking the main sickbay doors, "is necessary." Before the Captain had time to respond, Counselor Lawrence spoke up.

"Do you mind if I put up a sound barrier field around that patient's biobed?" she asked, nodding slightly toward the Commander. "You can monitor if you like, of course," she added to the Captain, "but..." -- she lowered her voice -- "...I want to keep the other patients from hearing what we're saying."

"Certainly Counselor, a sonic shield is a good idea as long as the security personnel I am sending can see them. Try and find out if there is anything we missed, as I'm sure Star Fleet will want a full report. I'm heading to my Ready Room to file a report if you learn anything new." Even as the Captain was agreeing to the Counselor's request, a slight nod to Clark from T`Lura had a sonic shield erected around the freighter's Commander.

"Counselor," T`Lura began, "please let my staff or I know if there is anything else we can do for you."

Knowing everything in sickbay was in order, T`Lura turned to her office, hoping to tackle some of the paperwork that was piling up.

[on the bridge at the science station]

"It appears that the explosives were centered around the Deuterium tanks, away from the cargo bays. Also scans are picking up what appears to be fragments of some sort of detonation device.It appears that the ship was rigged or timed to blow close to the ship to possibly distract us. As for wine there was no real wine on board, the wargame sensors I should say the secondary sensors for the wargame detected wine on the ships for the game but there in truth really was no wine. At least that is as far as I can tell Lt."Lana reported from the analysis.

[accessing the video logs and internal sensors]

M'rel finally was able to retrieve the records, both internal sensors and video logs, of the incident. As he is watching he stares at the screen in a slight shock. He taps his commbadge once more, "Uh.. Ens M'rel to Commander K'anis, you are going to have a hard time believing this... I just accessed the logs of the raid and identified the raiders. Our suspects would be a small band of Gorn. Frankly, sir, I am having a hard time believing this myself and am wondering if this would be part of the simulation or did the Gorn actually invade this station to get the Sigmask device? So far it has been a little difficult to differentiate between what has actually happened and what is simulated."

[Standing at Science Station One]

Blaine is looking at the display as the CSO describes the results of the hull fragment analysis, "It appears that the explosives were centered around the Deuterium tanks, away from the cargo bays. Also scans are picking up what appears to be fragments of some sort of detonation device.It appears that the ship was rigged or timed to blow close to the ship to possibly distract us. As for wine there was no real wine on board, the wargame sensors I should say the secondary sensors for the wargame detected wine on the ships for the game but there in truth really was no wine. At least that is as far as I can tell Lieutenant."

Blaine thinks for a few moments then replies, "Yes, that makes sense now, thank you, Ensign, good work." She turns and sees the Captain enter the Bridge from the Ready Room.

[On the Station]

Mazer looked around, and walked over to one of his security personnel, "Report." The officer nods a hello, "Still no signs of activity besides what we are doing and the CEO's team sir. It does indeed appear that the station is all clear." The Trill nods, noting the universal sign of trouble being the scratching of one's spots has not happened yet. "All right. But keep on guard none-the-less." 

Seeing that Cmdr. K'anis is quite busy trying to gather additional data on sigmask [or something along those lines], he taps his comm., "Broadsword, this is the away team. We have gathered the data on sigmask, with Cmdr. K'anis looking for more. Mr. M'rel is off doing repairs. How would you like us to proceed?"

[Standing at tactical station one]

Blaine stares down at the tactical console watching as the computer completes configuration of the last of the quarantine buoys. She is puzzled as to why Starfleet Command would pull them off of this assignment after discovering their situation was not part of the war games and someone has stolen what could be a dangerous piece of equipment from the station. "Just when we were beginning to make some real progress we are being ordered back to Starbase,” she thinks. “We are already here and there is still time to pursue the perpetrator. By the time another starship arrives it will be too late, the warp trail will have dissipated and the thief will be long gone.”

Blaine taps the console, loading the final quarantine buoy into the launchers and readies them for launch. She then transfers the code into the computer and waits for confirmation of the away team’s return to the ship. Setting the PADD on top of the tactical console she informs the CO, “Captain, the quarantine buoys are ready for launch. Awaiting confirmation of the return of the away team before initiating the station’s shields, Sir.”

[Working on the console at the Science Labs]

After Mazer's expeditious work on the console, he and K'anis were able to find the necessary data on the 'sigmask'.

"Interesting devide", K'anis thought to himself while scrolling down through the data files. "Very useful in a hunt"

His communicator chirps with the CEO contacting him and informing him on the possible involvement of the Gorn in the situation. "Indeed that would add a twist to the plot" K'anis thought before replying.

"Good worrk, Mrrr. M'Rrrel. Gatherr the data and transferr it to the ship. As soon as you're done, reporrt to the beam in site. K'anis out.", the Antican replied.

Hearing Mazer contact the Broadsword, the Antican thought the circle was over. They have did everything they could according to protocol. It was finnaly a time to call the entire simulation to a halt.

"Lieutenant, I think we've done all we could down herre. This 'detour' to the original warrgame schedule is indeed parrt of the simulation as well. It was devised as a means of testing the crrew readiness without we knowing it was simulated. We shall now reporrt back to the ship and conferr with the captain".

Upon the CTO's baffled face, the Antican can only offer a toothy smile as he lead the group back to the coordinates of beaming out.

{After everyone gathers back}

Seeing everyone is accounted for, the XO taps his communicator once more. "Broadsworrd, this is K'anis. Mrr. Wolfe, the away team is ready to beam out"

[from OPS station]

"Broadsworrd, this is K'anis. Mrr. Wolfe, the away team is ready to beam out"

"Aye sir. Initialization transport."

[Standing at tactical station one] 
"Lieutenant Wolfe, please confirm safe transport of all away team members." Blaine requests as she taps the console. "Preparing to initialize station shields."

[At station on Bridge]

"Lt. Blaine, the transporter room has acknowledged a successful transport."

[Arriving in Transporter Room One]

As the momentary feeling of discorporation faded, and the familiar sight of the Broadsword's transporter room faded into view Mazer breathed a sigh of relief. For some reason, tension within him had escalated back on the station. His security personnel, their phasers having long since been holstered, step off the pad. They turn to him for their orders, "Report back to the office / armory, secure weapons, etc. And make your reports. I'll have Lt. Blaine debrief you later." He was already feeling too tired to that himself ... and if you didn't let your subordinates do some of the work, well, what was the point of having them?

Stretching his arms behind his back, he turns back to the XO & CEO, "Hopefully this particular mystery is coming to a close ... I wouldn't mind some off duty time and rest myself."

[Standing at tactical station one]

"Lt. Blaine, the transporter room has acknowledged a successful transport."
"Acknowledged. Initiating station shields." Blaine taps the console sending the code to the station computer. "Station shields at full power, Sir. Launching quarantine buoys, now."

Blaine watches the monitor as the quarantine buoys are launched. "Quarantine buoys in position, Sir, activatiation is confirmed." she reports to the Captain.

[Materializes...]

Once more the Antican has his molecules assembled in his natural form on the Broadsword transporter room.

K'anis acknowledged the technitians nod and waited as Mazer debriefed his officers. Afterwards, the CTO expresses his desire for some down time, to which the XO could not pass on.

"Yes, Lieutenant. That would be good indeed. Perhaps when we arrive back to Starrrbase 13 we may find the time, eh?"

K'anis walked calmly out of the transporter room and into a turbolift to the bridge.

[finishing up work in the station]

"Good worrk, Mrrr. M'Rrrel. Gatherr the data and transferr it to the ship. As soon as you're done, reporrt to the beam in site. K'anis out," was the reply from the XO. M'rel answered, "Aye sir, transferring all data found to the ship now," he closes off the the comm, "Chief, Crewman let's finish up here and get back to the beam in site we are done here." Both of the techs answered with "Aye Sir" and started to gather their equipment. After M'rel and the techs finished what they were doing they arrived back at the beam in site. 

(assuming everyone else is there)

The transporter wisked up the away team in a bright blue column of light. As the team was leaving the station M'rel thought to himself "Now this has been a very unusual first mission, I wonder what we are going to do next. I can't wait to know if it is going to be anything like what we just encountered."

[at the helm]

Moore hears Lt. Wolfe confirim that the away team is back aboard, and Lt. Blaine has launched the buoys.

"Captain, course for Starbase 13 is set and ready to engage on your command."

[On Bridge.]

"Excellent Lieutenant Blaine. Now, I think it's time to..." Chod is interupted by an indicator beap from the Tactical Console, reporting 2 ships entering the system. The lead ship, a Defiant Class, hails them.

"Put it on screen, Mister Wolfe."

On the screen appears a tall Andorian wearing Captain's pips. "Captain Chod, I am Captain Merzot of the Regent. We have been sent to pursue the fleeing vessel, if you would, please transmit any information you were able to get on it to us." Chod motions for the data to be sent as the Andorian continues. "The Charon is going to continue to investigate at the station, Command wants you to return to Star Base for further orders. Have a good trip, Captain."

"Thank you Captain Merzot, and good hunting." Chod motions for the channel to be closed. "Engage your course, Mr. Moore."

[at the helm]

"Yes, Sir. On course for Starbase 13 now."

[going over the never-ending paperwork]

T`Lura picked up the PADD MO Clark had given her before the freighter's injured arrived in sickbay. Two new senior staff, along with a half dozen new crewman, had been transferred to the Broadsword during the training mission. These were the last needing physicals, T`Lura noted. T`Lura pressed the comm icon on her console.

"Ensign Moore, Ensign Rayton. Please report to sickbay."

[ on the bridge at the science station]

Lana looked up from some data anaylsis she was doing, Sickbay? It probably is just a physical, she thought rising and heading over to the turbolift. "SIckbay," she said as the turbolift doors shut behind her.

[ walks into sickbay ]

Lana walks into sickbay," You asked to see me?" she said walking over to T'Lura.

[exiting the turbolift on to the bridge]

Moore had just finished a meeting with the Flight Control crew and returning to the bridge when he heard the page to go to the sickbay. He shrugs his shoulders and grimaces at the gamma shift helmsman on duty. "I guess I won't be relieving you just yet." He turns back to the turbolift, get in, and says, " Sickbay"

[entering sickbay]

Moore glances around the room as he enters, and when he sees the doctor he walks over and says " Ens. Moore reporting, Doctor"

[entering sickbay]

Moore glances around the room as he enters, and when he sees the doctor he walks over and says " Ens. Moore reporting, Doctor"

[in sickbay]

Lana walked over to biobed one as instructed and hopped up on it in a sitting position.

[in sickbay]

Moore hops up on the biobed indicated.

[On Bridge.]

Watching the viewscreen as the Broadsword approaches Starbase, Chod lets a smile out. Any mission you can make it home from is a good one, as his first Captain used to say.

"Excellent job, everyone. Now, lets get resupplied so we can get on with the next mission. See you all on the Bridge at 09:00 hours."

Entering his Ready Room, Chod notices messages coming in from Star Fleet.

[Entering her Quarters]

Blaine yawns as taps the control pad next to the door of her Quarters and enters as the doors slide open, “Computer, lights 50% illumination” she commands as the computer beeps in acknowledgement. Placing her phaser and a couple of PADDs on the table she turns and walks a few steps to the replicator, “Computer, tea hot.” She takes the teacup and walks over to her desk, setting the teacup on the desk as she sits down. Leaning back in her chair she takes a deep breath then yawns again. “What a day” she says out loud as she bends over and pulls off her boots, placing them neatly next to the desk.

Straightening up she turns back to her desk tapping the button on her terminal, “Computer begin duty log,” she commands as the computer beeps in acknowledgement.

“Tactical Officer’s Duty Log, Stardate: 10204.20. The war games are completed and we have been ordered to Starbase 13 for our next assignment.”

“It is unclear at this time, which events were real and which were part of the simulation. I guess we’ll never know for sure.”

Debriefing with the security team will commence at 0600 tomorrow morning and we should reach Starbase shortly afterwards.”

“End log.”

“Personal log, LtJG. Kelly Blaine, Stardate: 10204.20

I am curious as to how we scored on the simulation. The offensive and defensive systems seemed to work flawlessly and the crew, although new, seemed to work together without any problems. Hopefully our score was high.”

“I hope my performance during this simulation was acceptable as it was my first time performing my duties on a real starship. I must admit even though it was a simulation, it seemed very real to me and I found the experience very exciting. It is what I’ve always dreamed of and it is everything I had hoped it would be.”

“I only hope my career in Starfleet will be just as adventurous as this.”

“End Log.” 

Blaine taps the button on the terminal closing the log then picks up her teacup and sips the hot liquid, feeling the heat warm her body and it relaxes her. She glances over to the bed, her eyelids becoming very heavy. She puts the cup back on the desk, stands and stumbles over to the bed, falling face down onto the mattress.

[in his quarters]

Moore yawned and stretched as he sat heavily at his desk. "FCO duty log, Stardate...uh... Computer enter todays date here please.. The war games are over and we are on our way to Starbase 13. THe crew seemed to work well together even as the mission went a little haywire. The Flight Control crew mission debriefing will be at 0630 in the morning." Clay got up and walked over to the replicator. "Ribeye sandwich, medium well, lettuce, dill pickles, and a large glass of iced tea,sweet." He sits back at the desk and finishes his snack. He falls asleep at the desk.

[ In her Quaters]

Lana walked into her quarters after her trip to sickbay and sighed as she gazed at all the unopened boxes that contained her personal items that were sent on aboard when she was transfered here. Lana looked at them with dread, she really didn't want to start unpacking now, she was exhausted. "If it doesn't get done now it wont get done later," she told herself. She threw up her hands in defeat and walked over to the replicator, "One green tea, hot." she said and a steaming cup of tea materialized in the replicator . She took the cup and walked over to set it on her desk as she started to unpack her belongings. After an 2 hrs., 3 cups of tea and two slices of coffee cake she was done unpacking. She put up the last wall hanging, and stepped back to look at her new home for who knows how long. "Perfect," she said walking over to her couch and sitting down.As soon as she had sat down she dozed off.

[Just coming into his quarters]

"This has been an intriguing day, very interesting...." thought M'rel as he was passing through his door. He goes to his replicator and orders his usual tomato soup with sourdough bread. He takes his dinner, the only thing he has eaten all day, to his small computer terminal to start his duty and personal logs.

"Computer start recording for duty log stardate 0204.23 2100 hours. I have reported for duty as the new Chief Engineering Officer abord the USS Broadsword, Akira class, registary number NCC-80864 to the Commanding Officer, Captain Chod. When I reported in the ship was participating in simulated war games with the Klingon ship the IKS Wa'Dich against a group of modified freighters to give the impression that they were pirates. The engineering department that served under my command worked very efficiently getiing all tasks finished under a reasonable amount of time. If this was an actual situation I would ask the captain for permission to give Master Chief Sandy Wilkins a commendation, alas this was only a simulation. This ends my report. Computer end and save duty log." The compuuter beeped then replied, "Log ended and saved." 

"Computer start recording for personal log stardate 0204.23 2145 hours. What an unusual day I have experienced... when I reported to the Broadsword they were already engaged in a war game simulation that had a few circumstances that still are not understandable. I have a feeling that I will have a momentous time while stationed here on the Broadsword. I have not been able to interact with any of my crew members on a personal level as of yet since I haven't had the time, but as I do, I hope that no one will judge me based on my genes. Being half Romulan AND Vulcan is quite difficult enough when neither societies will accept you. The Romulan people don't want anything to do with me because of my Vulcan blood and the Vulcans don't because of my usage of emotions. The only reason it seems that anyone would want to tolerate my presence on both worlds is becauase my parents are very respected diplomats. But I won't dwell on this much longer. I only would like right now is that I can start a new life in Starfleet and hopefully have a lasting friendship with Ensigns Clayton Moore and Larania Rayton, two people i have gone to the academy with. Computer end log, save, and encrypt." The computer did as was told. M'rel finished with his dinner then sat on the floor in front of a small table with candles on it, closed his eyes, and meditated the night away.

[Asleep in her quarters]

“The time is now 0430 hours” Blaine’s eyes remain closed as she rolls over slowly, groaning as she hears the voice of the computer echoing from some far away place. 

“The time is now 0440 hours,” it repeats precisely 10 minutes later. She strains to open her eyes, one other eye sealed shut from the crusty-stuff that sometimes forms on the eyelids during the night. Slowly she moves her fingers to her eye then manually pries it open. “Oh man, I do not want to get up,” she thinks as she stretches her arms above her head, rolling her head around and hearing the familiar cracking sound. “Cm..p ter, lyys onnn” she mumbles through a yawn, throwing off the covers and moving her legs over the side of the bed, bringing herself into a sitting position.

Running her fingers through her hair, pulling it from her face she blinks several times attempting to wake up. Reluctantly she stands and stumbles into the restroom to shower. 

20 minutes later Blaine exits the dressing area in a clean uniform, boots polished to a high-luster and heads for the replicator. “Computer, coffee, cream, one sugar” she orders. She listens to the familiar “whirl” of the replicator and watches as a nice hot mug of coffee materializes on the receiving tray. Taking the coffee mug she sips the “elixir” and makes her way to the desk, sitting down and activating the terminal. “We should be almost to Starbase 13 by now” she mumbles as she gazes out the portal taking another sip of her coffee.

The terminal comes to life and quickly displays messages that have come in overnight. Tapping the button she scrolls through them, skimming the subject lines, opening and reading a few then scrolling again. She finds one from Captain Chod and opens it. 

To: Lieutenant Junior Grade Kelly Blaine, USS Broadsword NCC-80864
CC: Captain Chod, Commanding Officer, USS Broadsword NCC-80864
Commander Cyndjahl Kanis, Executive Officer, USS Broadsword NCC80864
From: Starfleet Personnel
Subject: Reassignment

LtJG. Blaine,

You have been reassigned to the science vessel, USS Venture, NCC-28461 as Tactical Officer. You are to disembark the Broadsword at Starbase 13 and board the Federation transport vessel, USS Colorado at 1100 hours on Stardate 10204.25.

Good luck on your new assignment.

Sincerely,
Admiral Norman Fraser
Starfleet Personnel

Blaine chokes and begins spitting coffee all over her desk. “What the…? Why have I been….? But who…?? I just got here!” she stammers out loud.