ST:SoD001 | "Latenter"

Stardate [redacted]

Mischa receives new transfer orders to take command of the infamous USS Latenter. Hoping she can take it forwards without repeating the ship's troubled past, she prepares to disembark from her role as XO of the Endeavour.

---

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Mischa@crystyll chimes the ready room door

Sam@drcrippler: "Come in,"

Mischa@crystyll approaches the desk, hands folded at her back and holding a PADD, "Captain"

Sam@drcrippler: "Mischa," he smiles, placing his papers down. "How are you?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Honestly...? A little bewildered..." she notes, clearly seeming it as she sits

Sam@drcrippler: "Oh?" he leans back. "How so?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Well, I was just minding the bridge when Riomi informed she has received a classified communication from the Sol system. She said it had my name on it, and so she handed it to me..."

Mischa@crystyll drums her fingers indicatively on the PADD, "Suffice to say, it was actually addressed to you..."

Sam@drcrippler glances at the PADD. "It had your name on?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Well. Both of us, but mainly you... and it is regarding me, it seems"

Sam@drcrippler takes the PADD and glances at at

Mischa@crystyll slides it across for Sam, leaning back some as he reads

Mischa@crystyll FX | The PADD is a transfer order signed from the Office of the Head of Starfleet Intelligence

Mischa@crystyll FX | It doesn't say it's from Chakotay...

Sam@drcrippler: "Ah," he smiles. "Guess you're leaving us,"

Mischa@crystyll FX | It states a stardate and coordinates for the Endeavour to rendezvous with a USS Latenter, where Mischa is to transfer to with immediate effect, further orders pending

Mischa@crystyll twists her lip some, "No need to look /quite/ so happy about being rid of me" she says in jest

Sam@drcrippler chuckles. "Finally, I might get some action," he smirks. "Congratulations, this is a big moment for you,"

Mischa@crystyll: "Perhaps, it's not like HQ to make a sudden move like this without a specific mission in mind though"

Mischa@crystyll: "I've worked with the Latenter some previously, before I took on the role here, but..." shakes her head, "I haven't the foggiest what is going on now..."

Sam@drcrippler: "Is that... trepedation I hear in your voice there Commander?" he raises his eyebrow. "If you've manage to not only survive, but thrive as my XO, you are totally ready for whatever lies ahead for you

Sam@drcrippler: ,"

Mischa@crystyll: "Oh of that I have no doubt Sir, but as you well know; I don't like being in the dark" she smiles

Sam@drcrippler: "Knowing you, you won't be in the dark for long. Either you'll be told, or you'll find out,"

Mischa@crystyll smirks a little, "Damned straight" then sighs, "I just feel regret for the position this puts you and the Endeavour in, I do not like walking away from my responsibilities..."

Sam@drcrippler: "Don't worry," he smiles. "We've survived without a XO before; Tasha is really good at doing the job unofficially. We'll survive until we get a transfer. Have you told anyone else?"

Mischa@crystyll shakes her head, "As soon I reviewed the communique I came straight in here to inform you. The timeframe provided does not leave us much room to manuever. I guess on a personal note, I am still +

Mischa@crystyll: + processing..."

Sam@drcrippler: "Well, you might have to process faster," he grins. "The Latenter isn't too far off our course, we'll be able to rendezvous in three days," he checks his console. "Don't worry Mischa," his voice

Sam@drcrippler: softens slightly. "I know for a fact you'll exceed no matter where you go. This ship is far better now than it was when you arrived. In the short time you've been here, you've made waves. You'll do

Sam@drcrippler: the same in your next posting, for sure,"

Mischa@crystyll smiles sincerely, "Thank you, Captain. It has been quite the adventure, short lived as it was. With your permission then, I'll have Pippa alter course then see to my own preparations?"

Sam@drcrippler: "You know, we're totally going to throw a party for you..." he shrugs. "Well, not me, but Tasha will twist my arm to host one,"

Mischa@crystyll chuckles, "I certainly hope to enjoy a final drink with you before departing; a toast to our Endeavour" she smiles, standing

Sam@drcrippler: "Of course. It was indeed, our Endeavour," he smiles.

Mischa@crystyll dips her head again with a tentative smile, turning to exit and give the course adjustments

***

Mischa@crystyll sits in her usual - comfy and favourite - seat, watching the viewscreen

Mischa@crystyll: "Pippa, confirm coordinates. This is the right place, yes?"

Mischa@crystyll | Pippa nods, "Yes, ma'am - to within an inch!"

Sam@drcrippler steps out, looking unusually crisp and proper

Mischa@crystyll FX | The Endeavour hangs motionless in the middle of deep space

Sam@drcrippler: "Report?" he says as he takes his seat.

Mischa@crystyll looks over with a smile, "We are here and on schedule. Just waiting for the Latenter now"

Sam@drcrippler: "Any sign of them?" he looks at the viewscreen

Mischa@crystyll | Amelie shakes her head, "Negative Captain. Nothing on sensors at any range yet"

Sam@drcrippler: "Are... Starfleet Intelligence always late?" he looks at Mischa

Mischa@crystyll shakes her head, frowning at even the thought of it, "I know Captain Franzman. He is nothing if not meticulous. This doesn't seem right..."

Sam@drcrippler: "Well, let's sit around," he looks at his watch. "Space does have a habit in getting in the way with plans," he mutters. "Amelie, keep those sensors working,"

Mischa@crystyll | Amelie suddenly pipes up, "Wait, I'm reading something... an energy surge to our starboard flank"

Mischa@crystyll grins, shaking her head some, "On screen"

Mischa@crystyll FX | Viewscreens shifts to show a shot over the starboard nacelle. At first nothing is there, just... space

Mischa@crystyll FX | Then the space begins to ripple before the elongated form of the Eclipse class Latenter comes into view, taking position beside the Endeavour

Mischa@crystyll | Riomi: "Captain, we are receiving a comm link from the... Latenter?" she looks to Mischa curiously

Mischa@crystyll nods, confirming that is the Latenter

Sam@drcrippler: [Brie] "I just want to say, that is not as impressive from the inside, despite what it may look like,"

Sam@drcrippler sighs. "Onscreen,"

Mischa@crystyll gives Brie a curious glance, wondering when she was where. MACO's...

Mischa@crystyll FX | The image of a relatively young blonde haired Vulcan woman appears. Looking stoic as the best of them, "Captain Bishop, Commander Leveson-Scott. I trust we did not detain you long"

Sam@drcrippler: "Oh no, we just got here," he nods. "It's nice to meet you, Captain,"

Mischa@crystyll | She perks a very Vulcan brow, "Lieutenant Commander actually. I am T'Lana, acting XO of the Latenter. We are ready to receive the Commander at your convenience"

Mischa@crystyll perks a brow herself at the 'acting XO' bit, curious what happened to Courrege and wondering if that's her new assignment

Sam@drcrippler smirks. "Of course, I get the rank wrong," he mutters, "Well, my convenience would keep the Commander here for a very long time, but orders are orders," he looks at Mischa. "Ready to go Commander?"

Mischa@crystyll stands and nods, looking to the Vulcan on screen, "I will transport across momentarily. Endeavour out"

Mischa@crystyll FX | The Vulcan gives a curt nod and the feed cuts

Mischa@crystyll looks to Sam drawing a deep breath, "Well this is it. I'll head over and get up to speed. Once I know what the lay of the land is, I'll comm you and see about popping back before we part ways"

Sam@drcrippler: "Lieutenant Commander," he mouths, shaking his head, before standing. "Well," he looks at Mischa

Mischa@crystyll chuckles at that, "The long ponytail over the shoulder does serve well to hide the pips. I should try that myself some time..."

Sam@drcrippler: "Or... you know... just not..." he chuckles.

Mischa@crystyll smirks some, "I'll take it under advisement, how about that? Alright, well don't make me get emotional saying goodbyes on the bridge now, eh? I'll pop back shortly alright, so don't go warping off!"

Sam@drcrippler steals a glance at Pippa and motions across his neck, shaking his head. "Sure,"

Mischa@crystyll rolls her eyes with a chuckle, settling to just set a hand on his shoulder briefly, "I'll see you soon, Captain" she smiles, turning and heading back to the transporter pad

***

Mischa@crystyll materializes on board the Latenter, a small smile forming as she takes in the familiar setting before eyes settle on T'Lana

Mischa@crystyll steps off the pad, "Commander T'Lana, I was not expecting a personal welcome"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I believe it is fitting for the situation. Welcome on board, Commander Leveson-Scott."

T'Lana@anncarise , unlike the typical Vulcans from Trek, speaks with an audible London accent instead.

Mischa@crystyll: "Thank you. So... acting XO now? I must confess some curiosity what happened to Courrege and Franzman..."

T'Lana@anncarise: "Nothing dramatic, fortunately. Courrege has taken a field assignment, a very understandable decision as one should always keep their skills honed if possible."

T'Lana@anncarise: "Franzman has taken a position at Headquarters. He is not expected to take command or work in the field again, but he has had a most eventful career."

T'Lana@anncarise: "It was choice, not punishment, as I understand it. He has endured much in his service, especially for a human."

Mischa@crystyll: "That he certainly has. Well, it seems my time working alongside SFC has left me rather out of the loop. I must make a point of passing on my congratulations to him"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Though the job was taking a toll on him, he was content to be in command where he believed he could have the greatest impact. He took the decision rather regretfully."

T'Lana@anncarise: "From my understanding of Starfleet internal politics however, it is likely Captain Franzman will be promoted to Commodore or Rear Admiral within two years. Perhaps that would be a more appropriate -

T'Lana@anncarise: - time for congratulations?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Perhaps" she smiles, "A most logical conclusion, as always"

Mischa@crystyll: "But on the subject of new postings... as acting XO here, I assume you have details of my new assignment?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Yes. I am to hand over command of the Latenter to you."

Mischa@crystyll blinks, "You... wait, what now?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I will rephrase more clearly. Your new assignment is as Commanding Officer of the USS Latenter."

Mischa@crystyll blinks again, still a little blindsided. Then frowns some, "Well, much as value discretion one would have thought some indication to that effect could have been included in my transfer order"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I did not pen the transfer orders, and while I am aware of your assignment, I am yet to be informed of our, the Latenter's, assignment."

Mischa@crystyll: "Then I suppose we should make haste with the transfer of command so I can see what HQ has in mind for us" she smiles some

T'Lana@anncarise: "Perhaps the ship will be deployed on a mission where it may be advantageous if the identity of the Commanding Officer is not known to outsiders."

T'Lana@anncarise: "That would be a logical reason for the vagueness of your orders, especially considering that the ship has been infiltrated before."

Mischa@crystyll: "I'm glad to see you continuing to apply those powers of deductions so aptly, T'Lana. Shall we proceed then?"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "After you, Commander."

Mischa@crystyll heads on out, "I assume I have been assigned Franzman's old quarters...?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "That is correct. It has been rearranged to standard configuration following his departure."

Mischa@crystyll: "Still upholding the Latenter's high standards of efficiency, I see?"

Mischa@crystyll comments witha knowing smile

T'Lana@anncarise: "Of course, Commander."

***

Mischa@crystyll steps off the turbolift after settling into her new quarters, and crisp new tunic

T'Lana@anncarise stands from the command chair, "Commander. The bridge is yours."

Mischa@crystyll eyes the big chair a moment, looking back to T'Lana, "You are relieved Commander. Stand ready though, I need you to hold the fort here once we transfer the command codes"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Understood. I will remain on the bridge for the moment."

T'Lana@anncarise steps aside and gives the chair to Mischa.

Mischa@crystyll steps up and tries it on for sizing, shifting a little as she adjusts to it before tapping on the console

Mischa@crystyll: "Computer, initiate command transfer"

T'Lana@anncarise is fortunately around the same height as Mischa so Mischa doesn't have to go through Keelah's struggles with the seat.

Mischa@crystyll Computer | Command transfer initiated. Awaiting confirmation from acting CO LCDR T'Lana

T'Lana@anncarise: "Computer, transfer all command codes to Commander Mischa Leveson-Scott. Voice authorization, T'Lana-Omega-One-Six."

Mischa@crystyll Computer | Transfer acknowledged. Awaiting acceptance from Commander Leveson-Scott

Mischa@crystyll: "Computer, register command codes to Commander Mischa Leveson-Scott. voice authorization; Leveson-Scott-Gamme-One-Nine"

Mischa@crystyll Computer | Transfer complete. USS Latenter now under command of Commander Leveson-Scott

Mischa@crystyll: "Computer, record the transfer completion the ship's log as of stardate 95342.9 and route all pending standing orders to the ready room console"

Mischa@crystyll FX | A beep of acknowledgement

Mischa@crystyll looks to T'Lana, "Well that's that then. You have the bridge, I must get up to speed with what HQ has planned for us"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I must admit I am quite curious myself."

Mischa@crystyll smiles a little at that, knowing exactly that feeling, and heads off to her new ready room

***

Mischa@crystyll: <C> T'Lana, could you please report to th-... to my ready room

T'Lana@anncarise: <C> I am on my way, Commander.

T'Lana@anncarise | A moment later, the doorbell rings.

Mischa@crystyll: "Come in"

T'Lana@anncarise steps inside.

Mischa@crystyll looks over with a smile, standing at the replicator, "It seems my old tea recipe was still stored here, small graces and all. Care for anything?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Which tea is that, if I may ask?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Prince of Wales blend. Care to try some? It's no spiced tea, but you may enjoy the subtle flavourings"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "I am not acquainted with that blend. I will give it a try."

Mischa@crystyll smiles and promptly orders two teas from the replicator, presenting one to T'Lana before gesturing to the sofa, "Shall we?"

T'Lana@anncarise takes the tea and moves towards the sofa, "Thank you."

T'Lana@anncarise leaves the big comfy sofa for the CO, of course.

Mischa@crystyll nestles into yet another unfamiliar seat with a slight frown, before enjoying a welcome sip. Now it feels like home

Mischa@crystyll: "Aah, much better. Well as you have no doubt surmised already, I have reviewed our standing orders"

T'Lana@anncarise takes a sip as well, "I have suspected as much, yes."

Mischa@crystyll: "Tell me, how familiar are you with current affairs in this region?"

Mischa@crystyll: "I'm afraid I've still got a long way to go in catching up on the ship's logs since I was last on board..."

T'Lana@anncarise: "I am well-acquainted with affairs here. The region faced a disconnected Borg threat as well as a local power playing with technology they do not fully comprehend."

Mischa@crystyll gives an impressed nod, "Both quite the adventures for the Endeavour at that. So what do you know of Forged Earth?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Forged Earth, a lost and recently rediscovered colony of humans predating the time of the Federation. Diplomatic contact was successful for the most part, save a xenophobia-motivated attack on -

T'Lana@anncarise: - Starfleet personnel."

Mischa@crystyll: "Very good. I assume then you are also aware of the discovery of an Iconian gateway in the system, too?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "That was what sparked the incident, if I am not mistaken."

Mischa@crystyll: "Correct. Well to fill in the more recent gaps; local fleet operations performed a trial activation of the gateway, which rendered it inoperable"

Mischa@crystyll: "They also - however - confirmed it as having a fixed connection, somewhere rimward of Forged Earth"

T'Lana@anncarise: "That is uncharted territory, and from what our observed movement patterns suggest, the likely origin of vessels identified with the Colonial Fleet and its infamous leader."

Mischa@crystyll: "Indeed it is, that is where we come in it seems"

T'Lana@anncarise: "We are to gather information on the whereabouts of this gateway and which power may currently possess control over it?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Not exactly. Command has just approved a mission proposed by Admiral Torin of DSEC to send out an exploratory mission for that purpose"

Mischa@crystyll: "Given what SFI already knows of the immediate region, our job... is to follow them, and analyze all new contacts for potential threats"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I see. That is a logical step to take. Uncharted space always has the potential for threats, but this portion of the rim may be especially dangerous."

T'Lana@anncarise: "We have data of several attempts to push into that direction. An early Klingon expedition, a Cardassian expansion effort, even an Iconian task force during the war."

T'Lana@anncarise: "None of those have been observed returning."

Mischa@crystyll: "HQ agrees with that assessment. At the very least - as you noted - we have reason to suspect this as being potentially hostile region"

Mischa@crystyll: "That is why we are being deployed to shadow the Command expedition"

T'Lana@anncarise: "We will remain hidden during the majority of our voyage then, I assume?"

Mischa@crystyll nods, "Our orders are clear in that we are not to intervene with - or make our presence known to - the Command expedition, save for extenuating circumstances where emergency aid is paramount"

T'Lana@anncarise: "What of General Order Six concerning non-enemy polities? Are we to assist them per standard operating orders, or does our directive to maintain discretion supercede the general order?"

Mischa@crystyll: "That would be our extenuating circumstance. The expedition knows they are out of support range, so if they find themselves in a position to even consider a general distress hail... that may well be +

Mischa@crystyll: + cause to warrant the revealing of our presence"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "Understood."

Mischa@crystyll: "Continuing contact with local parties first encountered by the expedition may well be warranted in more traditional capacities however"

Mischa@crystyll: "Subject to our assessments of the political climate in the new regions, and any other circumstances, further contact may be warranted in order to help secure the region for all"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Indeed. If a likely threat to the Federation is discovered, I assume all standard protocols are still in place?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Naturally. Now in terms of preparations, I know the Latenter crew is generally more accustomed to extended duration missions"

Mischa@crystyll: "So while the Command expedition prepares in spacedock with shuffling personnel around and stocking up provisions, we are to make port and fully resupply"

Mischa@crystyll: "We will need to make room for additional stock of long range probes in particular. Far reaching as the Latenter's sensor palette's are, we will be constantly moving and so lack the luxury of time +

Mischa@crystyll: + for in depth study"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I will check over the requisitions and deliveries personally and ensure we have an ample supply."

T'Lana@anncarise: "Our storage has recently been reorganized already, so making the room should not be too difficult."

Mischa@crystyll nods to that, "We will also need to upgrade all of our encryption protocols. Once out of range, we'll be relying on the general subspace relays dropped by the expedition as it progresses. And I know+

Mischa@crystyll: + I don't need to tell you how insecure they are compared to our own networks"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "The Son'a relay network stretches well into that region of space. If their relays are configured properly for espionage, a feat I believe the Son'a are fully capable of, they will be able -

T'Lana@anncarise: - to listen in on the information carried by these expeditionary relays."

Mischa@crystyll: "Which is one thing for general reports from the expedition, but quite the other when it comes to anyting sent to or from this vessel. Excellent, so we have clear parameters for what must be done in +

Mischa@crystyll: + preparation"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I believe I am in full understanding of what is expected of us for this mission."

Mischa@crystyll smiles, "That's what I like to hear! And I'll be continuing to rely on your knowledge here - and of course your intellect - at time goes on. I am confident that we will make an exemplorary team to +

Mischa@crystyll: + lead this ship through the mission ahead"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I will serve to the best of my capacity, as I hope you have come to expect of me."

Mischa@crystyll smirks a little, standing, "Expect, and rely upon"

T'Lana@anncarise stands as well, "Then I will be sure not to disappoint, Commander."

Mischa@crystyll nods lightly, "Good. Now with that out of the way, I must see to wrapping up my affairs on the Endeavour"

Mischa@crystyll: "I suspect this may draw out some, so consider it a standby plan for us to travel with them for a while as they return to DS13. I will comm you with a confirmation of that order as and when it comes +

Mischa@crystyll: + to pass"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "I will oversee the preparations needed for resupply in the meantime."

Mischa@crystyll: "Perfect! We can review them first thing in the morning, and hopefully by then I can start getting to know the new crew as well. That will be all for now then"

T'Lana@anncarise: "Until then."

***

Mischa@crystyll FX | A few hours later Dix pipes up, "Captain, I have an update from the Latenter, they have Commander Leveson-Scott standing by to beam back on board

Sam@drcrippler: "Let them know we're ready to recieve," he nods, straigtening his dress jacket.

Sam@drcrippler moves towards the back

Mischa@crystyll | Dix nods, "Energizing..."

Mischa@crystyll materializes amid the typical sea of blue sparkles, immediately tugging awkwardly at her crisp new tunic before settling eyes on Sam and smiling warmly

Mischa@crystyll performs the Picard Maneuver.

Sam@drcrippler steps forward. "Commander... I see you ditched our uniform,"

Mischa@crystyll materializes amid the typical sea of blue sparkles, immediately tugging awkwardly at her crisp new tunic before settling eyes on Sam and smiling warmly

Mischa@crystyll performs the Picard Maneuver.

Mischa@crystyll: "Latenter colours..." she chuckles, stepping off the pad

Mischa@crystyll: "And what's all this-" she indicates his fancy dress, "- in aid of, hm?"

Sam@drcrippler: "They look good on you," he nods. "Well, I thought we needed a bit of Bishop pomp and circumstance for such an occasion. Also, I'm fairly sure I won't get blood on them so... I'm safe,"

Mischa@crystyll smirks at that, stepping forward and straightening his combadge all motherly like, "Well then who am I to complain, hm?"

Sam@drcrippler: "Dammit, I thought I got that right this time," he frowns. "How are things on the Latenter?"

Mischa@crystyll smiles a little, "A lot has changed since I was last there... Franzman retired from the field and is now serving back at HQ, and her former XO Courrege is reassigned in the field"

Sam@drcrippler: "So, she hasn't got a CO or an XO currently?"

Mischa@crystyll: "Both now actually..." a flash of a proud smile, "T'Lana is now fixed as /my/ XO"

Sam@drcrippler: "Which means," his face breaks into a grin. "Congratulations, Captain," he holds out his hand

Mischa@crystyll 's grin brightens as she accepts the hand, "Still Commander actually, but CO yes"

Sam@drcrippler: "Well, that's what I meant," he chuckles. "I'm so proud of you!"

Sam@drcrippler [Tasha] steps forward and pulls Mischa into a tight hug, pushing Sam back

Sam@drcrippler: [Tasha] "Congratulations Mischa!"

Mischa@crystyll flushes a little, "I always suspected HQ was groo- oh, ok we're doing this then!" she chuclkes, welcoming the embrace

Mischa@crystyll: "Thank you Tasha. I can at least take comfort in knowing you're still here to keep him in check"

Sam@drcrippler [Tasha] pulls back, the hint of tears in her eyes. "Of course, I'll keep him in line, don't worry,"

Sam@drcrippler: [Brie] steps forward, pulling her hands out of her pockets. "Well done Commander," she nods. "You actually managed to do the thing we all wanted to do... get away from him," she jerks her thumb at Sam

Mischa@crystyll holds her hands on Tasha's shoulders as she pulls back, an emotional smile on her own face as she turns to Brie with a smirk

Mischa@crystyll: "Well if you all got away Brie, who'd be left to keep him in line, eh?"

Sam@drcrippler [Brie] shrugs, "I'm just saying, a gun and one bullet would do the trick," she fingerguns Sam

Mischa@crystyll rolls her eyes, chuckling

Sam@drcrippler glances between the two. "Should... I start sleeping with my eyes open? And... with a gun near me?"

Sam@drcrippler: [Brie] "The fact you don't already tells me everything I need to know..."

Mischa@crystyll: "Anyway, last I checked you weren't in any immediate rush to run off anywhere right?"

Sam@drcrippler: "Other than... wanting to be back home for leave... no, not really,"

Mischa@crystyll: "Well, I've got scope to head that way with the Latenter a while. Mind if we ride shotgun? Give us the chance to share one last drink?"

Sam@drcrippler: [Brie] "Are we racing?"

Sam@drcrippler: "No we are..."

Sam@drcrippler: [Pippa] "Did someone say racing? I'll get this bucket of stembolts moving!"

Mischa@crystyll laughs, focusing on Sam, "Don't ever let our crew lose this magic. Promise me this, Captain"

Sam@drcrippler blinks and looks behind him. "The XO has been gone for less than a day and already I'm losing control..." he sighs

Sam@drcrippler glances at Mischa with a weary smile. "I... don't doubt that they ever will..."

Mischa@crystyll: "Jokes aside though, how about it? Much as there is for me to do on the Latenter I have the luxury of time for now"

Sam@drcrippler: "It's up to you Commander," he smiles. "You're always welcome on the Endeavour,"

Mischa@crystyll: "Well then, what's say we get this crew home for some well deserved R&R!"

Mischa@crystyll: "I'll have the Latenter form up and travel alongside for a spell"

Sam@drcrippler turns. "Well Pippa... set a course for home," he smiles. "AND NO RACES," he adds quickly

Mischa@crystyll smirks, tapping her combadge, "T'Lana, proceed as discussed. I'll be in touch shortly"

View Bonus Content

T'Lana@anncarise rings the doorbell.

Mischa@crystyll: "Come in" she calls from across the room

T'Lana@anncarise steps into the room, "Commander."

Mischa@crystyll FX | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izQsgE0L450 plays within the room

Mischa@crystyll is knelt by the coffee table. An open Starfleet packing crate next to her with a smattering of personal effects dotted about as she is clearly trying to find the right home for them

Mischa@crystyll looks over her shoulder and smiles, "Aah T'Lana, what do you think?" she asks, looking to the purple stuffed dragon she just sat leaning against a flower planter in the middle of the table

T'Lana@anncarise tilts her head curiously as she examines the dragon, "I assume that has personal or cultural value for you?"

Mischa@crystyll smiles, picking the dragon up and holding it to her chest, arms wrapped around it, "In varying contexts, yes. This little fellow was a gift to me from Captain Bishop to welcome me on board the +

Mischa@crystyll: + Endeavour after he heard that I lost my previous one in the evacuation of DS13"

Mischa@crystyll explains it without really explaining why she has a purple plush dragon in the first place...

T'Lana@anncarise: "Interesting. I take it you are in the midst of setting up the room to your preferences?"

Mischa@crystyll nods, setting the dragon back down - making sure he behaves and sits upright, naturally, "Tea?" she offers, moving to the replicator

T'Lana@anncarise makes her way further into the room, "Tea will be agreeable."

Mischa@crystyll smiles, turning and organizing the drinks, "Do come in, make yourself comfortable"

T'Lana@anncarise makes her way over to and takes a seat.

Mischa@crystyll: "And to answer your question; yes. I thought it may help with the acclimatization to this being /my/ ready room now. It is difficult not to still feel Benjamin's aura here"

Mischa@crystyll she notes with a smile, presenting the drinks and taking a seat herself

T'Lana@anncarise takes her drink, "Thank you. I presume you mean aura as a metaphorical sense? I was unaware that humans possessed any telepathic ability, at least without interference."

Mischa@crystyll chuckles, "Quite right, yes purely a metaphorical reference. But I digress... was there something you needed of me?"

T'Lana@anncarise takes out a PADD and hands it over to Mischa, "I have been calling my contacts in the region of any information they may be able to give of the area of space we are venturing into."

T'Lana@anncarise: "Much of it aligns with what little we have in the Federation database, and that which does not is unverifiable at the moment, so it was not fit to enter it formally."

T'Lana@anncarise: "However, I thought some of it may be of interest still, so we have an idea of what we may encounter."

Mischa@crystyll: "Aah, keeping sharp I see" she smiles approvingly as she takes the offered PADD, giving it a peruse as she sips her tea

T'Lana@anncarise sips her tea as well. The PADD contains various information on alien sightings inside or by the edge of unexplored space, some feasible, some likely exaggerated or a result of sensor glitches.

T'Lana@anncarise | Some entries appear to be significantly more credible than others, though there is no way of confirming them without first entering the area. There are also several allusions to a 'Horde' from -

T'Lana@anncarise: - aliens who are thought or have claimed to be locals from the region.

Mischa@crystyll: "We should let the analysts take this information into hand as we come into the relevant regions. Then with luck, we will see a discernible pattern of credibility forming as we gain our own +

Mischa@crystyll: + verifications" she taps it curiously witha fingernail, "This 'Horde' that keeps cropping up though. If nothing else, then volume alone suggests there may be something to it"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "Excellent suggestion, Commander."

T'Lana@anncarise: "I have noticed the frequency of references to this 'Horde' as well. In addition, there is another segment of information that, while unconfirmed at the moment, originates from a Cardassian contact -

T'Lana@anncarise: - whose intelligence have proven accurate in past instances."

Mischa@crystyll leans back a little, resting the PADD in her lap as she considers T'Lana, "Well, you've spent enough time in the field to have a reliable sense for things. What does your intuition tell you on this?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "That second-hand information is rarely reliable, but they are also rarely a complete fabrication."

T'Lana@anncarise: "Those who traverse space, especially regions others are unlikely to be familiar with, often take liberties to embellish tales in order to impress their peers. However, in most instances, there is -

T'Lana@anncarise: - usually a sliver of truth buried within."

Mischa@crystyll nods, "A logically cautious assessment. But seeing as - in the field - we often had little else than hearsay to work with, you must have an affinity for discerning that sliver; if not a 'gut +

Mischa@crystyll: + instinct', if you prefer a more Human coloquialism" she smiles a little

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "I believe I have developed such a sense from my time in the field. For example, I am fairly certain that despite the rumours, there is no technologically advanced race of intelligent -

T'Lana@anncarise: - starships hostile to all biological life, but there may be a machine intelligence somewhere in the region or perhaps a group who prefers the use of automated vessels without a crew."

Mischa@crystyll nods approvingly, "That would seem a fair assessment to me. I suppose we need to consider how exactly we plan to progress with leads such as this, given the context of our mission in shadowing the +

Mischa@crystyll: + Command task force"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I suppose that for the most part, we will merely be confirming or disproving the rumours or categorizing civilizations and factions not covered by any preliminary information."

T'Lana@anncarise: "In the case that a region the Command task force is headed towards may possess danger, I am sure that they are well-trained and equipped to handle such situations. However, if we were to have -

T'Lana@anncarise: - confirmation of a severe enough threat, it may fit within extenuating circumstances that may warrant intervention, namely a warning."

Mischa@crystyll nods, "Yes, it is that latter hypothetical which troubles me. Not a decision I relish the thought of having to make, in all honesty"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I understand that the task force will have its own scouting vessel with stealth capabilities, so such a situation is not likely to occur."

T'Lana@anncarise: "In the case that it does, perhaps our first consideration should be to deliver a warning through a third party rather than expose ourselves, and only do the latter if all else fails."

Mischa@crystyll: "Not one where they walk blindly into a dangerous position at least. But were they to encounter 'smiling assassins', then standard protocol could lead them down a dangerous path, where we would +

Mischa@crystyll: + hopefully at least, have prior warning to such tendencies"

Mischa@crystyll: "Hmm... You propose, what, placing an operative within the task force?"

T'Lana@anncarise: "That...is an option. Though I was thinking that were they to make allies in these regions, we may be able to contact them as well and perhaps convince them to pass word to the Command force -

T'Lana@anncarise: - as 'local knowledge' without raising awareness of our presence."

Mischa@crystyll: "Certainly an option, though reliant on a number of caveats. Too much so for it to be a reliable first plan of action, but rather a 'nice to have'. That said..." she smiles a little

Mischa@crystyll: "We have a small complement of infiltrator class small craft on board. It's been a while since I used one myself, but as I recall; they come with holographic projection and signature masking as +

Mischa@crystyll: + standard. Once a new ally is established, it should be a simple enough task to prepare one of the craft and an operative to appear as said race and play the role of the one passing on local tips"

T'Lana@anncarise: "An excellent plan, Commander."

Mischa@crystyll: "Not optimal" she shakes her head, "But it is, at least, a contingency that we can work towards in preparedness. Right now, keeping the crew focused on task is as much as a concern for me as the +

Mischa@crystyll: + actual matter of intelligence handling..." shakes her head lightly, sipping her tea

T'Lana@anncarise: "Do you believe the crew is off focus and in need of stricter regulation?"

Mischa@crystyll smiles, shaking her head with more conviction, "Not at all, I know our crew is at the top of their game, I just want to ensure they stay there"

T'Lana@anncarise nods, "I will do everything to ensure they do not lose their focus, then. The nature of the mission should hopefully keep them on edge, as we are to remain undetected from the main task force -

T'Lana@anncarise: - during the entirety of their travels. If I notice any lax in discipline, I will be sure to bring it to your attention."

Mischa@crystyll chuckles, "I certainly don't envisage anyone slipping /that/ far! But it may be worth considering that many of crew do still lack your level of self-discipline. It is Human nature to grow complacen+

Mischa@crystyll: + and while we may be on a focused task, that will still likely result in extended periods of running dark with minimal shipboard activity. Now they can all handle that perfectly well in shorter +

Mischa@crystyll: + bursts for recon missions and the like. But this will be much more of an endurance test, and one this is more likely to see guards drop over time"

T'Lana@anncarise sips her tea, "I see your point. I will do what I can to keep the crew functioning at the standard they currently are."

T'Lana@anncarise: "While I can promise to maintain my own level of focus, doing so for the rest of the crew may be more difficult. I must admit this is my first proper command posting."

Mischa@crystyll sighs softly into her tea, "Or maybe I'm just overthinking everything now I'm suddenly responsible for all these people, rather than helpfully propping up the one who is"

T'Lana@anncarise: "I understand your position. This is a first for you as well."

Mischa@crystyll nods, "Though I am no stranger to being atop the command tree for a starship's crew - and much more sizeable than ours at that - being CO... is still as big a leap, if not more so, than going from +

Mischa@crystyll: + operative to XO" she chuckles

T'Lana@anncarise: "That is certainly is. I recall from your file that you have been in command of starships in times of crisis, though that is still quite different from being in charge of one on a daily basis."

T'Lana@anncarise: "Almost like surviving temporarily in wilderness compared to living off the land permanently."

Mischa@crystyll: "Which is no picnic either, let me tell you"

Mischa@crystyll: "But yes, we all have a long way to go. I know that between us though, we will steer our crew - and each other - true, when needed"

T'Lana@anncarise: "With my familiarity of the ship and crew and your experience, I am certain that we will."

Mischa@crystyll: "Of that, I have no doubt" she smiles, "But for now... I'll settle for getting unpacked" she chuckles, setting her tea down on the side

T'Lana@anncarise finishes her tea and stands, "I will leave you to it, Commander. I hope the scraps of information I have gathered proves to be of some use on our journey."

Mischa@crystyll: "I'm sure they will" she smiles, getting to her feet, "Now where to set these blades..." she looks back to her box of goodies

T'Lana@anncarise inclines her head to Mischa and heads out of the ready room.

Mischa@crystyll smirks a little, dipping her head in kind as T'Lana departs