Command Seminar 
Stardate 10207.26 2200 
Conference Room #The_Big_Chair 
Hosted By: Captain K’Beth T’Kar Commanding Officer of the USS Delphyne

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Host Capt_K`Beth says: 
ALL: We'll give everyone a few more minutes and then begin.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
 ::gestures for Alara to come over::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She notices an officer in a gold room enter the room and smiles to him. He looks like an officer Alina Keindar once described to her, but places the thought out of her mind::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::grabs a seat close to Commander Xia::

OPS_McDuggle says:
:: finds an open chair and sits down::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
 ::couple of seats down though::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
Irvin: Lieutenant, may I ask you a quick question? ::She gives a friendly smile and leans closer so that he can hear her over the other voices::

Captain_Rya  says:
::Glances at the tall captain and gets out of her chair and walks over to him:: Ahkileez: Hello. ::A somewhat puzzled smile on her face::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says: 
::Stands by himself in the back looking out over the room slowly filling::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
 ::leans over::  Xia: Sure Commander.  

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She brushes the long curly hair behind her shoulder. The brown rings had begun to  block her vision as she looked over at the Engineer:: Irvin: You appear familiar to me, you wouldn't happen  to have served aboard the U.S.S. Pharaoh with Lieutenant Alina Keindar, would you?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
 ::looks at her PADD one more time and then decides that they should begin as it was getting late::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::slips into the room and heads to the back::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::chuckles::  Xia: You could say that...   

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles up at Alara:: Rya: It's good to see you again, Captain. I wanted to  congratulate you on your promotion. And your marriage. And of course on the birth of your child.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::walks up to the podium and sets her PADD down::  Hello, I am Captain K'Beth T'Kar.  Commanding Officer of the USS Delphyne.  ::waits for everyone to settle a bit::

Captain_Rya says:
::Doesn't want to be standing for the start of the lecture so she sits down next to Ahkileez trying to place him in her mind.:: Ahkileez: Thank you. ::Smiles as she finally remembers hearing stories about him.::

Captain_Rya says:
::Turns her head forward as K'Beth speaks::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::leans back over in his own seat::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Welcome to the Command Seminar.  During the course of the next hour I hope to show you all aspects of command and allow you a taste of the every day decisions that a CO may have to make.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::folds his hands and sets them on his lap::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Tonight is going to be a bit more than a lecture... I'm going to throw out different scenarios.  Some real, some imaginary and I'll let you ::points out at everyone:: decide the correct course of actions.  After I give you the scenario, raise your hand and I'll call on you to give me your answer and a short explanation as to why.

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::moves next to Captain Ahkileez:: CO: Is this seat taken?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::grins:: But first, the lecture part, otherwise they won't validate my parking.

Captain_Rya says:
::Chuckles::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::shakes his head and gestures for Sheridan to sit::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::laughs lightly::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::sits and smiles in return::

OPS_McDuggle says:
::chuckles a little::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
As every CO will tell you...the safety of the ship and her crew are paramount.  But even then there is a chance that you may have to  sacrifice the lives of everyone on board...down to the last child…in the line of duty without ever knowing if there is a favourable outcome.

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::leans over to whisper to Xia::  Xia: You know her?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
 ::leans back in the small chair and listens::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::looks seriously at everyone for a moment and then breaks out into a grin:: But on the lighter side...you get the corner office with the view and get to sit in the comfy chair.  Not forgetting to mention the really cool coffee mug that says "Because I'm the Captain, that's why..." on it.

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She gives a smile and nods to Irvin, giving her attention to K'Beth and keeping silent::

Captain_Rya says:
::Realizes just how large a man Ahkileez is and slides over from her seat on his one side to the vacant one next to her.::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::leans back over::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::chuckles at K'Beth's joke::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::starts to pace around the stage as she speaks::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::Smiles at K'Beth's last comment and thinks the quote suits her perfectly::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
The every day life of a Captain is filled with paperwork, paperwork and more paperwork.  Every major decision needs to be funneled through the CO's office.  Most of the time the decisions have already been made by the XO and department heads, but the final yea or nay is always decreed by the Captain.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
A good CO would not just rubber stamp everything but find the time to read each PADD that crosses their desk...which leads to another downside to command.  Very little personal life.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Very few CO's have what would be considered a 'normal' family life and the ones that do 	tend to find themselves weighing family against command. ::pauses and thinks for a moment:: You know...I just seemed to have painted a bleak picture about command, didn't I?  So why would anyone want it?  It's stressful, aggravating, exhausting...::smiles::

Captain_Rya say:
::Smiles at that.::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::nods in agreement::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
Outloud: ...Fulfilling...

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::glares at Xia for a moment at her outburst::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Self: Ones duty must come before family

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She gives a smile as she thinks to herself the brief moments where she got to sit in the centre chair - while it could be considered stressful, she found it quite satisfying::

Captain_Rya says:
::Thinks to herself that she and Drayan manage it and still have some time together.::

Capt-Royce says:
:: Smiles as she steals moments for herself and Dru. ::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::thinks to herself:: Self: I wonder if Doug feels that way?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
And the best damn feeling in the world.  When you sit in that center chair and you see your crew going about their jobs with efficiency and professionalism the feeling of pride and, yes even humility, at having the honor to command these individuals makes up for every frustrating moment there is.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Not only that...it's also the challenge ::her eyes start to twinkle:: The challenge to find the best possible solution.  To win a conflict and to supercede all expectations.  To be the best.

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She smiles at that last comment and thinks of how efficiently and comfortably the Delphyne crew appears to work under K'Beth's watch. She has only been aboard several days and she already realizes this fact::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::stops and looks at everyone in the audience and then breaks out into another grin:: Plus...you never have to clean your own quarters...or do your own laundry.

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::chuckles::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Any questions so far?

Capt-Royce says:
:: Smiles as she can relate to that. ::

OPS_McDuggle says:
::grins at last statement::

Captain_Rya says:
::Smiles at K'Beth::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::remains standing in the back::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She smiles and raises her hand::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::smiles since she still has nothing in her quarters to clean after seven months on the Huron::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::wonders why no one on the Sharikahr cleans his quarters::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::chuckles to herself and points to the eager CTO:: CTO: Yes Cmdr?

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
K'Beth: You've mentioned the largest downfalls and perks of being a Commanding Officer. Before we begin, would you have any one suggestion to give everyone here about how to interact with the crew under you?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
ALL: I don't think there is any 'one' answer.  Each crew member is unique.  Just as you wouldn't treat everyone you met the same way.  The biggest thing is to listen to them.

Captain_Rya says:
::Nods her head in agreement.::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::raises hand::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She nods at the response and makes note of it. She's already had an incident with this Captain - just from both of them having difficult listening to the others opinions. Events of the past in Xia's mind, but very important none the less::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
ALL: You may not like what you hear and you may not agree, but I find that if my crew knows that they can talk to me they feel more confident in their own abilities and decisions.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points to the commander:: Q'Tor: Yes Cmdr.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::I rose through the ranks as an engineer. I am also a warrior. I have only recently been appointed First officer of the QIb, and have had no diplomatic training. For the past several weeks I have had to act as the ACO, and have had to rely heavily on those around me with more....experience at diplomacy.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
So yes, I rely on the other senior officers of the QIb very much.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::nods:: Q'tor: I think there are several of us that were thrust into the CO slot without warning.  And your point is very well taken.  There is a vast amount of experience on the bridge and should be utilized.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
But when my decision is made, I expect it to be followed, and the crew realizes this.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::chuckles:: All: Please don't mistake listening for arguing.  I listen to my crew, yes.  But I don't let them argue.  And they will always 'listen' to me ::winks at her XO who just walked in:: Now...how about a few scenarios.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Scenario:  There is an immanent warp core breach.  The blast doors must be closed and the core ejected immediately but there are still 25 engineers that cannot be evacuated out of main engineering in time.  What do you do?

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::Listens to the officer and wonders how easy or difficult it was for him to gain ranks in Starfleet due to his Klingon background::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::raises hand::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She raises her hand - but knows that many others will be eager to answer the question::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::grins:: Our engineer first on the mark. ::points to the CEO:: CEO: yes lt.

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
Capt: Intraship Site to Site Transport.  Increase the signal mavagade to compensate for the increased radiation levels.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: What if transporters are off-line?

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She raises her hand::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points to the CTO:: CTO: Cmdr?

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
K'Beth: Using educated calculations, no matter how crude, it would be best to calculate the time needed to clear the anti-matter blast radius. Once that is found out, you can effectively decide a period of time that you have for evacuation...and in the failure of that, you must seal the area, regardless of the loss of life. All engineers are...are aware of the risks of their duty. It is better to sacrifice the few lives to save the entire crew and vessel. Unfortunate, but true.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::raises hand::

XO_Sykora_Tarrez says:
::Raises hand::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Q'tor: Cmdr?

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Of course every possible means of evacuation should be attempted, but in the end, should they die at their posts the engineers will be remembered with honor.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
But if you lose the ship in order to save them, then who will be left to remember them?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::nods:: All: Back to the needs of the many out weight the needs of the few.  A unfortunate and sad truism.  ::points to Tarrez:: Tarrez: Cmdr?  Did you have something to say?

OPS_McDuggle says:
::raises hand::

XO_Sykora_Tarrez says:
I think we all agree that if all else fails the engineers have to be sacrificed... I was wondering if maybe we could talk about possible evacuations procedures to try like... If the ship transporters are down I would try shuttle/runabout transporters

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: That's true.  All possible means must be explored and hopefully a good outcome.

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Silently walks in and takes a seat in the back.::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points to the OPS officer:: OPS: yes, you had a question?

OPS_McDuggle says:
K'Beth: I was thinking along the same lines as XO Sykora

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She listens to the other comments and opinions of the officers and looks back at her Executive Officer with a friendly smile:: Self: The options are in fact endless...it just boils down to a matter of time...

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Smiles as he glances around.::

Captain_Rya says:
::Shifts slightly in her seat wondering what the other scenarios K'Beth had planned are.::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: Okay how about another scenario...

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Scenario: A strange ship decloaks off of the port bow and fires damaging your ship inflicting casualties and creating a hull breach.  Your shields and weapons are still on-line but failing.  What do you do?

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::raises hand::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She has an option, but decided to wait this time and give others a choice to voice their ideas::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Q'tor: Cmdr?

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Sees Captain Fowler enter and smiles at her, then turns his attention back to the seminar..::

Capt_Fowler says:
::Turns to see who all is attending, sees Corjet, nods and smiles back at him, moves to an empty chair::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Thinks that he'd try to contact the assaulting ship and return fire while retreating somewhat.::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::is justifiably surprised to see Fowler and smiles::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Immediately get damage control teams to work, charge all weapons, reinforce shields, and destro......disable the enemy. If that fails, then there is no greater honor than to die in battle.

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She hears the XO's comment and smiles, raising her hand to respond with her own opinions::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::glances at Q'tor and then clears his throat, raising his hand::

Captain_Rya says:
::Shakes her head in disagreement.::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
And prepare for ramming speed!

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::keeps a serious expression on her face:: Q'tor: And that would be an honorable death for a Klingon warrior.  Except Cmdr.  Here, we represent the Federation and we have protocol.

Capt_Fowler says:
::Sees Jyg's hand raised and moves her hand to cover her smile::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points the tall Captain in the back:: Capt. Ahkileez?

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::shrinks down slightly:: I said disable them

Captain_Rya says:
::Looks at Q'Tor considering and thinks of two of her crew who would likely enjoy running battle simulations with him.::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::glances at Q'tor again:: As much as my knee jerk reaction is to remove anything blocking my sky, I'd have to disagree with the commander. I would think the proper reaction would be to, as he said, get damage teams on it and raise shields, but I wouldn’t' raise weapons. Which could just promote further attack in a bad situation. 

 Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::turns to look at the Captain next to her::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
And the power is best used on shields at that point anyway. After getting the shields up, I'd hail them, remind them of who we are and what we're doing, and demand the same information. Trying to sound diplomatic, but justifiably pissed.

Captain_Rya says:
::Turns her head to watch Ahkileez as he speaks.::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Grins with pride at his Brother-In-Laws comments and knows now why he's a Captain.::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She nods in agreement with the Captain who began speaking. While she respects Klingon opinions - Ahkileez presents the best possible solution::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: And if they don't respond to any hails?

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::shrugs and grins:: Self: Prepare for ramming speed

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::shrugs:: Then warn them again and back away until you're in a better position. Revenge is as likely to get my ship destroyed as it is to satisfy me. And I'd rather not sleep in vacuum.

Capt_Fowler says:
::Leans forward slightly, interested to hear Jyg's reply::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::nods at her Captain's answer::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Smiles and knows that there can't be any single possible solution, but knows that it would be dependant upon each and every situation.::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::Again, she agrees with the Captain. While her instincts as a Tactical Officer would demand she fight - recovery is always the best of options::

Captain_Rya says:
::Nods at Ahkileez's answers...agreeing with them for the most part.::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::nods approvingly:: All: And that right there is the crux of the matter.  How many command staff here in this room take every dent, scratch bump and bruise of their ship and crew personally?  ::raises her own hand::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::laughs softly and raises his own hand::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::raises hand::

Capt_Fowler says:
::smiles and raises her hand, also::

Captain_Rya says:
::chuckles and puts her hand up::

OPS_McDuggle says:
::raises hand::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Raises his hand as he's an extremely possessive Chief Engineer.::

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::smiles and lifts up a finger::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::raises a slender blue hand and thinks to self:: Self: It isn't?

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::As a non-command officer she prevents herself from raising her hand, but recalls her XO position on the Tyrial and raises one hand with the rest of the group::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: And yet...there are times when we have to put our own anger aside and even... ::mock shudders::... retreat and run away to hide.  Which irritates at least one half of my heritage to no end ::grins::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::raises his hand again::

Captain_Rya says:
::Speaks up:: There is no shame in retreat.

Capt_Fowler says:
::Smiles at Capt. K'Beth's answer, thinking that she could get to like her::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::shivers at the answer knowing that it is correct, but still goes against everything a Klingon stands for::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::turns to Rya:: Agreed!  There is no shame in retreat but you would be amazed at how many young officers think of regrouping as a last resort.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Understands K'Beth's mention of heritage::

Captain_Rya says:
::Nods, agreeing with that statement.::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Jyg: Capt Ahkileez?

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
:;looks at Captain Ahkileez again, smiling this time::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Looks around and sees others that aren't Captain or Command Officers and smiles, feeling a bit more comfortable.::

CO_McPherson-Quest says:
::quietly excuses himself by slipping out the seminar room doors, he doesn't want to keep his Sector Cmdr waiting::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::characteristic humor gone:: I'm interested in getting the responses of the other captains here. We've spoken about our duty, and how our dedication to it makes us muddle on and make decisions we'd rather not. ::pauses:: I'm wondering if there has ever been a time when their duty didn't seem like a good enough reason to give the order.

Capt-Royce says:
:: quietly gets up and moves to an exit. ::

Captain_Rya says:
::Considers Ahkileez's question.::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Thinks over Ahkileez's statement.::

Capt_Fowler says:
::Sobers at Jyg's words, images of Andy jump up in her minds eye::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::looks around the room at everyone:: All: A valid question.  Anyone?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::looks around, wondering if anyone will answer::

Captain_Rya says:
::Raises her hand::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::feels unqualified to answer that question as he has never run into such a situation.::

Capt_Fowler says:
::mumbles to herself:: Self: many orders, a lifetime ago

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points to Rya:: Rya: Captain?

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::looks around, interested in the replies::

Captain_Rya says:
All: I've been lucky in my command so far that I haven't felt that way yet, but I know it is only a matter of time. In the end you have to go with what you believe is the correct course of action and deal with the consequences whatever they may be.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
Perhaps I can clarify my point some...

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::leans on Jyg for a moment and whispers:: Ahkileez: Simple terms Captain........

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::raises her hands to pause him:: Excuse me Captain for a moment.  We seem to have hit our one hour mark but I'll stay here to continue this seminar.  All those who wish to stay, please feel free to stay.

Capt_S_Sheridan says:
::stands and slips out the door::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::waits patiently::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: For those that need to leave...there will be other seminars though out this conference.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Stays seated, listening::

OPS_McDuggle says:
::decides to wait::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::turns back to Jyg:: Jyg: Please continue, Capt.

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::Stays seated - as she wishes to speak to the Captain following the seminar::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::rises looking to Xia as if to say, "Can we meet up Later"?::

CTO_LtCmdr_Xia says:
::She immediately guesses what Irvin is going to ask and smiles and nods::

CEO_LtJG_Irvin says:
::shimmies out and quietly exits::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: While we wait for the captain to continue, let me thank all of you for attending.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::shifts in his seat and continues:: Here's the scenario: I was faced with issuing orders for my own wife and another doctor from the ship to head into an admittedly hostile situation, without the protection of the ship and little or no pre-cognitive Intelligence. I'd like to say that Duty was enough to make me say yes to it, but it wasn't.

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Smiles his thanks.::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
And I know that everyone from the Fleet Commander on down wouldn't have blamed me if I had simply said no. That is, after all, why they put sentient beings in the chair instead of making the computer run the ship. ::takes a breath:: In the end it was my wife's duty as a doctor that made the decision for me. I realized that it's not only my conscience I have to spare, but that of the people under me. I was not the only person that made a vow and signed up for this. By preventing people under me from doing their jobs, I would have been doing a disservice. So I was conflicted between my mission, my crew, and my personal life.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Jyg: but the big question is...what was your final decision?  Did you allow your wife to fulfill her duties?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles tightly:: K'Beth: Reluctantly.

Captain_Rya says:
Ahkileez: What was the outcome?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles again:: Rya: I went down with her.

Captain_Rya says:
::Smiles at him wondering how his first officer took that.::

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
::raises hand::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: How many decisions that we make are done...reluctantly?   Captain Ahkileez has stated a common problem that we have.  Do we have our spouses on board as crew?  Do we make friends with any of our crew?

Capt_Fowler says:
::Looks up and makes eye contact with Jyg, gives him a sad smile, looks around and raises her hand::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: Although I must applaud the captain's imaginative solution. ::points to Cmdr Tarrez:: Cmdr?

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Capt._Ahkileez: With all due respect Captain, that may be where Klingons have an advantage. A warriors duty comes before even his or her family.

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
I will wait until they have a go of your questions Captain

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles at Q'Tor:: Q'Tor: Tell that to my wife.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Capt._Ahkileez: Fortunately for me my wife is also a Klingon, and would expect nothing less from me.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points to Captain Fowler:: Captain...you had a comment?

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Smiles and beams as he hears about his beloved sister Kela.::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles more and settles down to not disturb the conversation farther::

Capt_Fowler says:
::Nods to K'Beth:: K'Beth: Thank you Captain.  I have had the honor of serving on two fine ships and I have faced that very thing.  Questioning orders.  Even those given by me

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::nods and waits for her to continue::

Captain_Rya says:
::Leans forward to listen with interest to what Captain Fowler has to say.::

Capt_Fowler says:
As an XO I lost two people on my watch, because I didn't have the power to contradict certain orders :: frowns a bit:: 

Capt_Fowler says:
As a Captain, I found that we can't and shouldn't even try to not get close to our crew.  As much as we don't want to admit it, a certain amount of people on a ship that close to each other for long periods of time, ::smiles:: well, we become a family.  Each situation is unique and I can't say that I won't question an order or change my mind on an order I issue.  But we have to follow our gut and hope that it turns out alright

Capt_Fowler says:
Otherwise, we become machine like if we follow every order and never question them  ::sits back down::

CEO_Cmdr_Corjet says:
::Nods his approval and quietly gets up and exits with a smile.::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::nods in complete agreement with Captain Fowler:: All: There's a saying that runs through my head whenever I'm faced with a situation with no clear cut answer.  It's from old Earth and goes: "Damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead."

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::leans across the empty chairs and pats Nancy on the shoulder::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Duj tIvoqtaH

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Always trust your instincts

Capt_Fowler says:
::Smiles at Jyg and puts her hand on his, giving it a gentle squeeze::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: Because often times that's all we have to go on is your instincts...that gut reaction.

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
I was wondering if I might get a general feel from the room about what type of situations warrants the CO to be on an AT over the protest of the XO? ::Grins at her CO::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
Diplomatic

Capt_Fowler says:
::thinks:: self: if I had followed my gut Andy would still be alive

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::shakes her head and chuckles:: All: As you may have guessed...::points to Xia:: There sits my CTO and it is a situation we discuss...at length.  Anyone have any comments on this?

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::sees her Captain and wonders how he knows the other Captain::

OPS_McDuggle says:
::checks chronometer and see that his duty shift starts soon and quietly leaves::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::raises her hand::

Captain_Rya says:
::Thinks about her situation with Drayan as XO but doesn't want to delve into it in a public forum so she keeps her mouth shut.::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::notices Sika there and smiles::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::points to the blue CTO in the corner:: CTO: Yes Lt.?

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Stands and doesn't look at her CO:: K'Beth:  It is my firm belief that the CO should stay on the ship.  They are not expendable.  ::glances at Ahkileez::  But when they decide to go, they should have at least two Security people with them at all times

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::sees her glance at Jyg and looks at him:: Jyg: And what does the Captain say about that?

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
For no other reason than to cover their as..... ::Coughs:: backs

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::chuckles  quietly and wonders if the tall captain has as much problems with his over protective CTO as she does::

Capt_Fowler says:
::Smiles at Jyg, remembering::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::shifts:: All: Well given my background in precisely Lieutenant Llynisika's position, I’d be a hypocrite if I disagreed with her. But there are situations where, no insult to XO's, the captain is better suited to go. He, or she, has the necessary experience, or command authority for the situation.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: I agree...and I have at least come to the compromise of having ::raises one finger:: one security officer with me. ::looks at her XO and grins::

Capt_Fowler says:
::laughs softly:: Self: Like getting married to someone on a planet, when you're already married  ::She knows Jyg can hear her::

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
Would any CO in here object if their CTO or XO sending a few more sec guys with them... even if it violates an order from the CO?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::laughs too and looks at Nancy::

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
::grins back::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::raises her hand::

Capt_Fowler says:
::winks at him::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
All: I would.  ::looks at her chronometer and sees the hour,  decides to wrap this up as interesting as it is::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Looks around::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
This has been a very small taste of sitting in the 'big chair' and of course there are dozens of small things that aren't mentioned.  The fact that Captains must constantly update themselves on the newest technology.  That they must memorize and know about each person on their crew.  That often they must be father and mother to homesick ensigns.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Wonders at the private joke between Ahkileez and this Captain Fowler::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
The job description for CO is simply written as command of a starship or station.  But that involves many if not everything.  But the biggest responsibility of any CO is to always portray someone who is respectful and courteous to even the lowest ranks. And above all, to understand that they are in command  not of positions and computers...

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
but of people and not everything goes by the book.

Capt_Fowler says:
::nods head in agreement, knowing that K'Beth must be a good Captain::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::grins:: I want to thank everyone for attending.  I'll be giving this seminar again throughout the conference and will have other scenarios to deal out so please join if you can.

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::turns and heads towards the door shaking his head:: Self: Life was so much easier when I was just the CEO

Captain_Rya says:
::Applauds.::

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
::claps::

Capt_Fowler says:
::Applauds::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::claps softly, antennae quivering::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::claps softly::

XO_Cmdr_Q`tor says:
::exits the room and heads off in search of a glass of real fire wine::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
Thank you very much.  Good night and hope to see you in the Main Hall later.

Captain_Rya says:
::Stands up and stretches.::

Capt_Fowler says:
::turns to Jyg:: Ahkileez: My congrats, .....Captain ::smiles:: They look good on you

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::grabs her PADD off of the podium and wanders out into the audience::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::somewhat sadly:: Thank you, Captain. But I wish they didn't come from your abrupt disappearance.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::moves to the back of the room, watching::

Captain_Rya says:
::Walks over to K'Beth:: Capt K'Beth: Thank you Captain. I enjoyed this seminar.

Capt_Fowler says:
Ahhh, that.  I wish I could tell you about it.  Maybe later.  How is the Shari?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::smiles:: Rya: Thank you very much.  I enjoyed giving it, had a good audience.

XO_Cmdr_Tarrez says:
::quickly leaves the room as she gets an important message from an Academy friend::

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: And your family, they're well?

Captain_Rya says:
::Nods her head:: K'Beth: There were some enthusiastic and interesting participants.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
Nan: Both well, I'm happy to say. ::smiles:: The triplets have just turned two, and Kelandra.. well.. she's with child again.

Captain_Rya says:
::Offer her hand:: K'Beth: I hope our paths cross again someday Captain. Best of luck to you.

Capt_Fowler says:
::raises her eyebrows:: Jyg: You don't say?  Please give her my regards.  And the triplets are two already?  How time flies ::Smiles:: If you will be around later, I have something I'd like you to give them

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::shakes her hand:: Rya: You too...Next time your at the Neutral Zone join me for a cup of coffee... ::grins::

Captain_Rya says:
::Chuckles:: K'Beth: It's a deal. We're usually on the Breen boarder. Look me up if you're ever out that way. ::Smiles and takes her leave.::

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: Are you going to Captain Starks seminar Sunday?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
Nan: I'll try to make it, but I'm not sure. ::shrugs:: Depends on what Command has planned. And what of you? How long will you be around?

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::laughs and then looks around and sees that blue CTO in the back.  Walks over to her:: 'Sika: Well, Lt.  Looks like you would get along with my CTO. ::grins::

Capt_Fowler says:
::Smiles:: Jyg: I hope to be here for the whole duration

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::comes to attention:: K'Beth: Ma'am?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
Nan: Then we've got to get you over to the ship. They finally installed that yacht. ::smiles::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
'Sika: Take your ease, Lt.  We're pretty informal in here.  I was glad to see non-command staff in here.  Wish there were more.

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: Oh they did?  Finally.  ::laughs:: Say, how is Ike doing?

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Relaxes slightly:: K'Beth: I thought it important to know more than just my Captain's style.  This seemed like the place to do that.

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: I never did get to say 'good-bye' to him

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::leans against the chair and picks his words:: Nan: He's... different. Shinji went home and came back.. I don't know, more centered.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
'Sika: Yes, get a bunch of Captains in the same room and you will find as many command styles as there are butts in the seats.

Capt_Fowler says:
::Looks at Jyg carefully:: Jyg: You say that like ....... it might not be such a good thing.  

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::shrugs:: Nan: I'm not sure if it is or it isn't. I know a lot of things shaped who I became. I think that Shinji has run into something of the same. Only no one's sure what he's changing *into*.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::raises an eyebrow at K'Beth's relaxed attitude:: K'Beth:  I see.  If I may ask, just how did you come to accept having a Security officer with you an away teams?

Capt_Fowler says:
::Frowns:: Jyg: I hate to think that Ike is having problems.  I'm hoping to someday visit Ike and explain to him why I left the Shari

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::nods:: Nan: He would like that.

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: And you wouldn't......?!  ::punches his arm, teasing::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::chuckles:: 'sika: My XO brow beat me until I gave in and promised to have at least one sec guy with me.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::chuckles:: Nan: Kelandra would say there isn't space in the ship for two captain-sized egos.

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: By the way, you've heard that Thorne has his own command.....

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::imagines browbeating Ahkileez, smiles faintly::  K'Beth:  I just might have to have a talk with your XO

Capt_Fowler says:
::Laughs:: Jyg:  You're the only one with a Captain sized ego, I'm much more relaxed ::smiles::

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles:: Nan: The Triton, yes. I knew he would make it. I'm very proud of him. ::smiles again:: Something of my protégé...

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::looks around for Sy but doesn't see her:: 'sika: If you're thinking of siccing her on the big guy there ::points over her shoulder at Jyg:: My bets are on my XO.  Where is she?  She was here a moment ago.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
K'Beth:  I didn't mean to over hear, but she got a message and left.

Capt_Fowler says:
::grins and winks at him:: Jyg: So I've heard...  ::her comm badge chirps::  Oh, guess I'm needed.  ::puts her hand on his arm:: you will be around?  

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::frowns:: 'Sika: Damn!  I needed to talk to her.  ::looks back up at 'Sika and smiles:: So tell me, what ship do you hail from, Lt?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::nods:: Nan: I think I will be. ::glances at the badge:: Off to adventure?

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
K'Beth:  The USS Sharikahr, Ma'am

Capt_Fowler says:
Jyg: Could be, but probably something mundane.  I'll see you around.  ::waves and leaves the room::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
'Sika: Sharikahr... Sharikahr... Where is she stationed?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::watches his captain go::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
Vulcan, Ma'am

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
'Sika: Nice place to be stationed at.  We used to have a Vulcan CTO on the Del.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Notices that Fowler has left::  K'Beth:  I have some Vulcan friends and I studied on Vulcan

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
For a time

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
'Sika: I never got a chance to visit that planet.  ::turns and looks waaaaaaay up at Jyg::  Do they all grow them that big?  ::turns to him and holds out her hand:: K'Beth of the USS Delphyne.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Sees Ahkileez:: Jyg: Captain

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::turns:: Sika: Yes?

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::glances at his officer and then takes K'Beth's hand:: I apologize for my distraction. ::smiles:: Jyg'Lo Ahkileez, USS Sharikahr.

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
Jyg:  I found this to be an interesting talk.  It has given me some insight as to how you think.  ::smiles::  K'Beth/Jyg:  I will take my leave of you both.  Good evening ::nods and makes her way out the door::

CTO_Lt_Jg_Llynisika says:
::Turns towards the main hall as the door closes behind her::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::watches 'sika go:: You have a fine officer there.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles:: I do, yes. I'm blessed with a great crew. Makes my decisions a lot easier when I don't have to make them as often.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::smiles:: Yep, that does help.  I noticed that your Operations Officer is giving a seminar.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
She is, yes. I want to pop in on it. See if I can get the inside track on how she pulls off her miracles. ::chuckles softly::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::laughs:: If she's anything like mine... ::shakes her head::  The things that kid can pull off...

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::sobers a bit:: You had some interesting insights tonight.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::nods:: Thank you. But that's just experience talking. More experience than I wish I had.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::laughs ruefully:: Sometimes I wonder why the hell I do it and then other times I wonder why anyone would want to do anything else.  No wonder they make certain to assign a CNS to every command.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::mutters:: I'm not a big fan of counselors. Although my wife used to be one. ::smiles again:: Of course I married her so I could stop going to the sessions.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::grins:: You do have the oddest solutions to your problems.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::looks at her chronometer:: I had better get going.  I have four more of these damn things to give during this conference and I have to stand command watch tomorrow too.  ::chuckles:: Herding cadets is like herding cats.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::laughs:: I know. I'm glad my children aren't as misbehaved. ::offers his hand again:: It's been a pleasure, captain.

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::shakes his hand:: Well Captain,  if you're ever near the Neutral Zone by SB-39S, stop by for a cup of coffee.

Capt_Ahkileez says:
::smiles:: I'll keep that in mind. ::nods crisply:: Captain. ::turns on his heel and heads for the door::

Host Capt_K`Beth says:
::follows after him and hits the light switch on the way out::

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