As Shione says her goodbyes and heads off to begin her in routine, the Commodore's aide, Cynthia Adler, approaches and greets Argent and Nivran. "Your new crew member, Lt. Marissa Swann, is in Gymnasium 342. She is has been made aware that you've arrived. You may go down there and greet her." She hands Argent a PADD with Marissa's transfer orders.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 1):

[OOC: Sorry, I'm at Comiccon all weekend. See you Monday!]

Argent took the PADD, not sure why he would be involved in her transfer, other than that they'd be crewmates.

He looked her data over in case there was something significant he needed to know. She was part Klingon, he noted, which made him wonder just how much of her Klingon heritage she indulged in.

He shrugged, a Human expression that he'd picked up in the Academy, and headed down to the gymnasium. At least the PADD had let him know who he would be looking for.

In reply to Lt (jg) Argent Merawdr (msg # 3):

When he arrives he sees two combatants fighting it out on a large combat mat
A Vulcan male and what appears to be a half Klingon.
They seem to be rather evenly matched and are moving through intricate maneuvers which almost seem like dance if it wasn't for the Kicks, punches and other strikes directed from and to each other.  The woman notices him and holds up her hand halting the Vulcan's latest maneuver.

"Another time LIeutenant. You know where to find me"

The bow to each other and she sweeps a towel from the floor, wiping her face and arms.

As she approaches , Argent sees that she is not as tall as Shione, but IS more muscular. The head ridges are not as pronounced, as a full blooded Klingon, but she definitely has their blood.
She walks over to him, smiling.Lt Merawdr, I presume? I am Lt Marissa Swann. Pleased to meet you"

She picks and dons a jacket from her bag, shoulders it and nods towards the exit."Walk with me if you would. I'm open to any question that you have about me, and I am also curious about your impressions of the Dyson Sphere. Please speak freely, and for now, call me Marissa, or Mari if you wish"

He half-expected the Vulcan to be a hologram... until he walked out the door.

"Greetings, Marissa," he responds. "I'm afraid if I called you Mari, you would then call me Arri, and we'd confuse the heck out of people!"

"I believe the Humans have a word for the Sphere--'ginormous'. I must say, though, that it is very disconcerting to find that it was built by a species from another universe. I suppose, for me, at any rate, it is like discovering that the shed in your backyard actually belongs to your neighbors."

"I don't know whether to be outraged at the... trespassing, or annoyed at the intrusion. It's like they were dumping their trash in our yard. Why didn't the take it with them when they left?"

"Mostly, I'm just a tad sad now that the mystery is gone."

"As for questions, is this an assignment you requested?"

In reply to Lt (jg) Argent Merawdr (msg # 5):

She grins "Well I could call you a Marauder, and I become a Swan.So as long as we know who WE, are I'm sure it'll be ok"

When he expresses his opinion as to the creation and origins of the sphere, she stops him, with a hand on his shoulder.

"You and I are Starfleet. Explore, discover, engage with whatever the universe gives us, is why we are out here.
Think about it. What difference is it, if it had been blinked into existence, by one of the Q, or built by a race from the Galactic core; who left, never to return?"

By now she has stopped, her back against a wall, forcing Argent to stop, and face her. She grins "I am equally intrigued by your pique at it's origin.

It is full of races from our Universe, a virtual microcosm of flora, fauna, cultures, and technology. All of which is now under OUR supervision.

C'mon, you're a scientist, Arrgie," she smirks, a teasing tone to her voice"And you have an opportunity, that most scientists would give up a body part, to have the chance to explore. And as to the mystery, we've explored, what 10% of it, maybe a bit more? I think there just might be a few mysteries left for you and I"

She casually throws her arm over his shoulder as they continue to the transporter room " And do I WANT to be here, hell yeah I do. You are aware, aren't you that the hand pick the best for this mission? And who wouldn't want to work with the best of Starfleet?"

They walk into the transporter room, her arm still draped over the Caitian's shoulders, which gets raised eyebrows,and whispers between the two PO's working there. She removes her arm, turning on the two."What's with you? Do you have a problem with interracial couples, Hmmn? Well do you?"

She snorts derisively, and Argent sees her wink at him, as she steps onto the pad alongside him." I don't want to hear any rumours, about this, or any other matters relating to the personal lives of other Starfleet personnel, Petty Officers. I trust I am being clear?",she barks.

Which gets a quick pair of "Yes Ma'am and Understood Lieutenant" from the two, whose eyes are now firmly centered on their consoles. " Two to beam up."

After they arrive, she strode out of the room alongside Argent , stopping at a point where no one was."When I arrived, they were carrying on about two female junior officers, that they caught smooching, so I figured they needed a bit of reeducation, Klingon style.

So I have another question for you, my new Caitian friend. Give me your assessment or opinion on the Kapecki COmmander that you met? And feel free, at any time to speculate based on your experience"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:34, Sun 14 May 2017.

Kapecki Commander?

Argent felt like he should know who she meant, but it was escaping him at the moment. While her arm around his shoulders didn't really bother him, it was a bit disconcerting. He wasn't used to such physical contact from other Starfleet personnel. He wondered if she was what the Humans called 'a hugger'?

"It's a bit too soon to have a reasonable opinion," he equivocated. "Even speculation is pointless at this stage."

"He has to actually do something before any opinion or speculation is warranted."

"Why? Do you know something about him?"

In reply to Lt (jg) Argent Merawdr (msg # 7):


"Sorry about the contact, I should have warned you. I forget sometimes, and I get exuberant. I spent some time in the Federation ground forces and there is plenty of back slapping and such done there.

I joined Starfleet afterward. I lost a lot of my unit in an encounter with the Borg, and felt I wanted to get out here and make a difference. I chose this assignment from the ones offered me. I remain concerned about the possibility of threats emanating from the sphere, so I wanted to be onsite when and if they appeared"

"It's a bit too soon to have a reasonable opinion," he equivocated. "Even speculation is pointless at this stage."

"He has to actually do something before any opinion or speculation is warranted."

She leads him into her quarters, which is topped off with packed bags, including a locked weapons case which appears to be able to hold a long weapon.
"Just make yourself comfortable, while I clean up and change"
She pushes the bathroom door , mostly closed and after she showered talks to him through the door.
" I understand, but don't you think as Starfleet officers we need to be aware and prepared for a possible threat, from Commander Olivaw and his fellow Kapecki? I only ask, given that you were in the group which met him"

She comes out in a few minutes, her uniform pants on with a sports bra identical to the one she was wearing before. She sits on the bed, drying her hair."I'm not trying to put you on the spot Argent.I haven't met them and I am wary of a race of androids, that's all"

She finishes dressing and taps her comm badge "Lieutenant Nivran, this is Lieutenant Swann, please meet me at the Starbase officers club. I wish to treat you and Lt Merawdr to lunch, before we leave. Swann out"

SHe indicates to Argent to lead her out and locks the door under a personal code.

"Ok let's talk about something that you don't have to speculate on. Tell me something about Lt Merawdr. What excites you as a Scientist and interests you as an Officer, about this assignment? And I'll do the same once we have met Nivran"

==Tag Argent==

Argent, Marissa and Nivran receive a chirp on their commbadges. "Attention Lts. Swann, Merawdr and Nivran—Lt. Adler speaking. I've been asked to inform you that the USS Thames will be arriving at Starbase 21 shortly with Lts. Sloan and Clare, and that you will be returning to Dyson Base aboard the Thames. The USS Kitchissippi will remain at Starbase 21 pending its replacement crew's arrival. Lts. Merawdr and Nivran, please retrieve any personal effects from the Kitchissippi. You will be informed when Lts. Sloane and Clare have arrived. Adler out"

Oh, THAT Kapecki Commander...

"I don't know enough about androids to know what to think about Olivaw," Argent replied.

"Given the technology that is at his disposal, it wouldn't seem to matter much if they were a threat. The only short-coming I can see is that they thought the sun was going to go nova... and they didn't choose to stabilize it... if they could."

"They just abandoned all the people of the sphere to their doom."

"For that matter, how do we know if there are more Kapecki still alive? As an android, Olivaw could have such an extended lifespan that he has outlived the species that created him."

"As you can see, there are many questions to be answered. I don't know that exploring the sphere will answer them."

Just then, as they were exiting her quarters, his comm chirped, followed by an announcement.

"The unknown intrigues me," he answered her last questions. "I want to know how it works. I want to know what it is and where it came from. That was the appeal of the Dyson sphere. Now, those questions have been answered."

"I cannot imagine anything more to be discovered on Dyson. There are probably still things to be learned, but it will mostly be just busy work. We could find a hundred new species of intelligent life on Dyson, but what of it? The Federation is full of new species. Then there's the horta, the crystalline entity, the exocomps and the sandmites. Is there anything stranger than those?"

"Anyways, I have to collect my travel bag from the Kitchissippi."

...error...
This message was last edited by the player at 23:19, Tue 16 May 2017.

In reply to Lt Shione Kurasa (msg # 11):

She listened to Lt Adler's message with interest. Finally here, and right on time she thought.

"Ok Argent, let NIvran know where my quarters, are and the two of you can stash you gear there

She tapped her comm badge "Lt Swann to Lt Adler. DO we need to get quarters for Merawdr and NIvran, or is the THames arriving soon?
Swann over"

Adler replies, "Probably not for another day, Lieutenant. I'm assigning them quarters. Please be reminded about your briefing at 1500 hours."

Nivran meets Argent and Marissa at the docking bay. Shi has already been in the Kitchissippi to collect hir belongings and is awaiting Argent.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 13):

...

Argent hurried to the Kitchissippi and walked in to get is kit. He traveled light most of the time... just a flat backpack. Replicators could make most of the items he'd ever need, so it was just a few personal mementos that he dragged around with him.

"Hello, Lieutenant," he said to Shione. "They're kicking me off!" he joked.

"Met the new person. She seems... okay. A bit more exuberant than I'm used to. One of us may have to... adapt."

"Heading back to the sphere. Got any suggestions for what use I can be there?"

It's coming up on noon, and all three of the characters are finding themselves somewhat peckish, not the least of them Marissa after her workout with MCPO Storn. When Nivran was here only a couple of weeks ago, shi had found a good restaurant on the commercial levels named The Blue Trogg, which had one of the best steaks shi had ever had. Shi recommends the place to Marissa and Argent.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 16):

"Ok I'm up for anything edible"

The steak proves to be tender, moist and delicious, as described. Nivran takes hir steak almost raw, devouring it almost daintily but with obvious enjoyment. Mounds of mushrooms and/or onions accompany it, along with potatoes prepared in a number of ways. Hot, steaming mugs of raktajino are available, along with milder Earth coffees and a wide range of teas from all over the Federation. The restaurant is dimly lit, with simulated rustic wood paneling and coarsely woven cloth tapestries. Marissa does not recognise the ethnicity of the decor.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 18):

"Excellent suggestion for lunch Nivran. So tell me, either of you. What is the relationship like between your species? I am unfamiliar on he topic, not being much of a student of diplomacy.

But I do wonder if your races are in any way related to one another?"

She sat back, enjoying her wine."By the way we will be meeting the Thames tomorrow so quarters are arranged for you both.  I have a short meeting after lunch, and it would appear we have the rest of the day free.

Nivran suggested the restaurant, Argent, what would you enjoy doing while we're here waiting?"

At that point in the conversation, Argent's commbadge chirps and a communications crewman says, "Lieutenant Merawdr, we have an incoming personal transmission from Dyson Base. Do you wish to receive it now, or should we record it for later attention? It is flagged as important but not urgent."

While Argent is answering the call, Nivran asks, "Did you not say that you have a briefing at 1500 hours? That's only two hours away, so if we do do something, it had best be short."

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 20):

" Let's wait and see what might be something urgent for Argent."

Nivran says, "My hearing is much sharper than you Humans'. They say it's important but not urgent." If shi's heard more, shi declines to pass it on.

"As far as I know, there are no genetic markers in common between a Mirak and a Caitian, though clearly the 'feline' genes are common in both, even though they aren't the same," Argent replied to Marissa. "That's not to say that the Progenitors didn't seed both species from some common genetic pool. Whether they tweaked us to be different, or just let natural evolution take its course, who's to say?"

Just then he got a comm message.

"I'll hear it now," Argent replied to the comm after stepping away from the others. The message couldn't have been so important that no one else could hear it. Besides, he was curious. Did he leave the oven on or something back at Dyson Base?

He hoped it wasn't something that called him away. After feeling a bit hungry, he'd been enjoying the lunch with Marissa and Nirvan.

"Hello, Argent? It's Talja. I'm so excited that I had to tell everyone! The Challenger is back! My sister Greta is alive and well. I'm so happy!" The Challenger is an Intrepid class starship reported missing after that last Borg assault on Earth. Talja's sister Greta is the ship's Counsellor. "They followed the Enterprise into the temporal rift and got stranded in an alternate timeline where the Borg... Well, we can talk about that later. The Challenger found a way to return to the real timeline and she's okay. Oh, and I've been promoted and assigned to the Thames II. That new alien, Dahlakino will be with us, too. Isn't that great?" Talja sounds breathless, a great contrast from her usual subdued demeanor.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 15:48, Mon 22 May 2017.

"Wow," Argent replied to Talja, too surprised to even sound excited. "That's great! Have you seen her yet? Do you need to take some leave to see her?"

"Dahlakino is joining us, too? That's... unusual."

"Guess I'll see you back on Dyson soon."

"No, I haven't seen her—she's going to be undergoing an extended debriefing and the ship needs a full post-combat refitting, but we'll get together this summer. Now that I know she's back and safe, it'll just fly by 'til then. And Dahlakino's really something. They want to keep her around because she's an expert on some tech we don't have. She's really smart and she works well with Tony Gazzo on the tech assessment stuff. Besides, I think she really likes you anyway. So, how's the new officer? What's she like? Any news on the Thames?"

Marissa, didn't try to listen to Argent's call and kept talking with Nivran, to keep hir from hearing.


"So I read in your file that you enjoy hand to hand combat. I've got some skill to speak of. Perhaps we can spar this evening if you're up to it"
She spoke in a playful, but taunting tone of voice

Nivran replies, "I do not think so, at least not right now. Perhaps once we're back at Dyson Base."  Shi brightens up as Argent saunters over. "How did your call go, Argent?"

Everyone's commbadges chirp and central communications announces, "USS Thames II is in bound and will arrive at 1830 hours."

[OOC: Zedrick's player has informed me that he'll try to post this evening.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:44, Tue 23 May 2017.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 29):

Lt. Zedrick Sloane looks out the viewer at Starbase 21.  Zed (to all his friends) is wondering if this assignment is a step up or not.  Fresh off a combat duty this new assignment seems a huge departure.  But today is not the day to worry about that.

Today he gets to meet his new crew mates. Zedrick says to himself "Well I guess its time to dock". Zedrick taps the comm "USS Thames to Starbase 21, requesting permission to dock."

The tannoy announces, "Attention all hands. USS Thames II arriving. Docking Bay doors opening."

The Atlantic class Runabout glides into the hangar bay and lands directly on the target markings. Tractor beams lance forth from the emitter heads and deftly manœuvre it into a
parking space. A hatch at the aft end on the upper deck opens and two Human-appearing officers clamber down the ladder set into the hull side. One is a bearded, deeply tanned Lieutenant with dark hair wearing command red, and the other is a pale, freckled redhead Lieutenant (junior grade) in sciences blue.

Waiting for them are a dark haired female Lieutenant in command red and two black-furred felinoid Lieutenants (junior grade). One is a Caitian of average height and wears sciences blue, while the other is a Mirak, nearly 2.4 metres tall and wearing operations gold.


A young Human woman, a Lieutenant (jg) in command red with with a staff aiguillette, enters the docking bay. She steps forward and says, "Welcome to Starbase 21, Lieutenants Sloane and Clare. I'm Cynthia Adler, aide to the Commodore. Commodore Stone has asked me to see to all new transfers to Dyson Base, so I'll run you through your in-routine. This is Lieutenant Swann, your new XO, and Lieutenants Merawdr and Nivran," indicating the Human woman (who appears to be part Klingon), the Caitian and the Mirak in turn.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:58, Wed 24 May 2017.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 31):

"Lieutenant Adler, permission to come aboard."

Turning to the other three "Lieutenants Swann, Merawdr and Nivran. I'm looking forward to our tour together." Turning back to Adler he continues to say "Hopefully Lt. Adler doesn't have us too busy briefing in-route to Dyson Base. Looking forward to some down time to a learn a bit about all of you.  It will make us a better team."

"Oh, the call was personal, but good news," Argent replies to Nivran, just before the arrival of the Thames is announced.

"A friend's sister was missing, presumed dead, but it turns out she is alive, as is the rest of her crew."


After the Thames docks and the new crewman disembarks and introduces himself, Argent replies.

"Pleased to meet you, Lieutenant Sloane. Call me Argent. I've not heard the name 'Zedrick' before. Is there a story behind it?"

Clearly Argent's name has to do with the silver-colored eyes he has.

This message was deleted by the player at 18:52, Thu 25 May 2017.

OOps my bad
Forgot to select my new PC

"Thank you Lt Adler. Greetings to you Lt Sloane and Lt Clare. I am Lt Marissa Swann, your new XO for the Thames II. Welcome.

She had extended a hand to each, her handshake was firm, and her smile seemed genuine."I suppose you have a million questions. Lt Argent and Lt Nivran, have served on the Kitchissippi and finished the first mission.Their former commander is here on the Starbase and if there are questions not answered in her report" and she  hands a chip to Sloane," then I think it likely you could ask to meet with her.

If you'd come this way, Lt Adler will take you through your in-routine, though I'm sure we will be close by, once you have completed the drill" She grinned mischievously, and winked at Clare.

"It's pretty strenuous, so we'll understand if you're not up for supper with us"

Both new officers thought it likely that she was joking

Lt. Adler says, "We'll just put your paperwork thorough, ant the Commodore will brief you at 0800 hours tomorrow, then you'll be on your way to Dyson Base. You'll have the run of the starbase for the evening. I'd assumed that it being 1830, you'd all eaten, but if you want to grab a bite after the in-routine, it should only take a half an hour to get done."

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 36):

Turning to greet Argent, Zedrick replies, "One of my ancestors worked with Zephran and since then all the kids have had names starting with the letter zed. And call me Zedrick, Argent"

"Lt. Swann, looking forward to serving with all of you.  I have only briefly reviewed everyone's files.  And haven't had much of a chance to review past missions. I have read some on the Dyson Base but that is about it.   I'm sure I will have a million plus one questions." Zedrick said with a smile.

Responding then to Lt. Alder "Yes we had a quick bite while we were in bound.  Didn't know what was expected when we arrived." Turning to everyone and said "I'm sure we will be starving after the in-routine"

[OOC: It's beginning to sound like all we do is eat! We just had lunch! Must have dozed off during the time skip!]


Zedrick referring to his name starting with the 'letter' zed clearly gave a clue to his homeland, but Argent wondered how they made a distinction between the 'letter' zed and the syllable 'zed' which clearly Zedrick's name started with. But wouldn't they have just spelled his name 'Zrick'?

Although, now that he thought about it, it probably wasn't any different than the letter 'b' and the syllable 'be', or even the word 'bee'. Context was everything! Unfortunately, there was no corresponding phonetics in Caitian, which is why he'd always been a bit fascinated with the idiosyncrasies of languages. There were a few documented cases of alien languages that the universal translator couldn't quite handle, and he momentarily wondered how the programmers had dealt with the 'z-zed' issue.

"Well, I, for one, had a rather large and filling lunch, so I'm good till after the in-routine," Argent said to Zedrick. "You can always join us for a drink, Zedrick, or just nibble at something."

"See you when you're done."

IT is the next day Argent, just so you know

[OOC: Nope, the Thames has just arrived. It's 1830, and the lunch was at 1200. The full briefing will be tomorrow.]

Jonathon Clare isn't saying much, seemingly content to let Zed Sloane do the talking. Adler leads them off to the admin section, leaving the rest to take a look at the Thames. One thing they notice is in the aft cargo hold of the Scout module—an off-road four-wheeled scout buggy [OOC: Same as the Argo vehicle in Star Trek Nemesis] crammed in to the space. Since Tony is a 'wheelman' in the parlance of Sigma Iotia II, Argent is sure he'll have some fun with the vehicle. The Scout module has six bunks and two small washrooms in addition to the cargo hold and a large area devoted to exploration—sensor stations and what-not. Argent recognises a cartography station, similar to one for stellar cartography but oriented around planetary mapping.

Perhaps we can work up a timestamp system for the GM posts to cut down on confusion?
Just a suggestion

In reply to Lt Shione Kurasa (msg # 41):

[OOC: Shione isn't involved in this adventure any more... :) ]
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:38, Fri 26 May 2017.

<red>I know</b>

SD 53080.89, 1900 hours, January 31, 2376

Lt. Adler runs Zed and Jon through their in-routine and they return about 30 minutes later. "So," she says, "I'm off duty as of now. What do you folks want for supper? We have a wide range of restaurants with cuisine from all over the Federation, as well as the local sectors. Anything your hearts—or stomachs—desire!"

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 44):

"What is the local cuisine.  I love taking a risk and trying some different.  There must be a restaurant on the station that has combined several cuisines and made something unique." Zed replies to Alder. Zed is playing his bit as a thriller seeker and even taking it into account when it comes to trying strange foods. 

In reply to Lt Zedrick Sloane (msg # 45):


Marissa grinned at the question about 'local cuisine'.

"Local, Lt? Not sure if there is an indigenous population but we'll see what we can do for you. There is an excellent spot that serves the finest Klingon cuisine, mixing it with Bajoran, and some Terran. Their Gagh, and Pipius claw is excellent, but the Rokeg Blood pie is the most memorable dish; though not for the faint of heart.

If vegetarian is your desire there is a married Vulcan couple who produce some amazing selections, however our feline crew members may find it less than appealing.

There is quite a considerable variety in the main Starbase Officers club, and likely in the interest of the wide gastronomic desires present in our crew; just might be the easier choice."

Once the choice is made, she will lead them, having spent considerable time here."So I'm guessing by your choice of using names vs ranks that you would prefer to run a relaxed ship, Zedrick?"

"Don't be so sure that feline's wouldn't like vegetarian cuisine," Argent replied. "I'm rather partial to catnip soup."

"Unfortunately, I never could get used to Klingon cuisine. I know everyone says it's an 'acquired' taste, but I think there is a gastronomic incompatibility with Caitians."

"If we are to all eat together, I suspect we should go to a more generic eatery."

After a brief discussion along these lines, the group eventually succumbs to hunger and make their decision. The food backs up Cynthia Adler's assessment of the excellent cuisine available and all are sated.

Afterward, Cynthia suggests a holographic performance of Hamlet 'in the original Klingon', she qualifies with a smirk.

In the morning, Commodore Stone holds the briefing, requesting that Marissa, Argent and Nivran also attend even though they have received earlier versions of the briefing.

"Good morning, Lieutenants. Some of you will already be aware of much of this information, but please bear with me. In the past month there have been several developments regarding the status of the Dyson Sphere. Lieutenant Merawdr was involved in some of these develpoments. We now know more about the creation and history of the Sphere."

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 48):

"Commodore Stone, I have reviewed the reports available while travelling here.  The Dyson Sphere seems to be a vast and diverse ecosystem.  Any additional information on the creation, history and perhaps the original purpose will definitely provide valuable insight."

Looking around the room to his crew, Lt. Sloane adds "The intent of our mission and how it relates to the Dyson Sphere would be beneficial."

Commodore Stone replies, "That is the point of doing this briefing, Lieutenant—to bring everyone up to speed on what we know. Thanks to Lieutenants Kurasa and Dul, along with their teams, of which Lieutenant Merawdr was an integral part, we have made contact with a race of androids or as they call themselves, replicants, called the Kapecki who were previously deemed a hostile force but who were apparently being externally controlled by a species called the Finori who are confirmed as a hostile force. You've all previously been briefed on the general aspects of the Dyson Sphere and a general précis is in your briefing materials."  Lieutenant Adler passes PADDs to everyone.

Stone continues, "This is the latest information we have. It duplicates some of the materials previously available. It includes general information on the Kapecki and the Finori, deck plans for the structures designated Gamma Stations and a review of the Klingon settlement known as BortaS City. Ambassador Worf is currently at Dyson Base meeting with Klingon emissary Klaang on that subject and a Klingon geneticist, Dr. Keh'lef will be stationed at Freeman's Island to oversee the scientific end of what is now being called the BortaS Project." He pauses to take a sip of ice water. "On the subject of the Kapecki, our current attitude is to regard them as neutrals rather than either allies or enemies. Back in old Earth's 20^th century Cold War, they had a saying—"Trust but verify". We will be working hand-in-glove of some projects with them to explore certain areas of the Sphere such as the Museum of Flight and the Museum of Life. On the other hand are the Finori—we've had several encounters with them and they are most definitely hostile. Kapecki under their control attacked Freeman's Island. We've been informed that the Kapecki have recovered all their personnel from Finori control but as these 'replicants' are synthetic in nature, we don't know but that the Finori are capable of creating their own. If so, we need to find out and find a way to detect them. As the Kapecki replicants are biosynthetic androids, they read as living beings, do the Kapecki Chief Researcher R Daneel and Security Chief R Thera will be working with our Science personnel to create algorithms whereby out tricorders will be able to discriminate between them and true biological beings. We have five Kapecki bodies in stasis which were used by the Finori to infiltrate Starbase 21. Three ore completely fused and seeming useless, but two are merely deactivated and are being studied intensively by Starfleet at a classified facility. We do know that the Kapecki are immune to stun setting on phasers but that they are susceptible to lethal settings. Finori, on the other hand, are vulnerable to the same settings as any other humanoid. They are warm-blooded oviparous pseudo-reptilian humanoids at least as intelligent as Humans. The creator of the Sphere, Yaskoydray the Grandfather, is of the parent species to the Finori, but is immensely old and has the technology to create entire bubble universes. He has a proégé named Möbius, a Human from the late 22nd century named Edward R. Morbius who he 'ascended' to an energy-based lifeform like himself. The Finori active in the Sphere are a splinter group who call themselves the 'Sons of the Grandfather' and are apparently in revolt against the Grandfather to take over his domains, which include the Dyson Sphere. They are also active in a series of bubble universes known as the 'String of Pearls', of which we know nothing other than the name.

"The Dyson Sphere is an experimental laboratory created approximately a million years ago by sucking matter from another universe through tame artificial wormholes to forn the carbon-neutronium outer shell around the star we designate Dyson, a class G5V variable star, a yellow dwarf a tad smaller and slightly cooler than Sol. It is home to an ongoing series of 'experiments' many of which involve sapient humanoid life forms. These 'experiments' seem to be purely observational, at least on Yaskoydray's behalf. The Finori appear to be more intrusive and the recently explored Gamma Two Station was involved in psionics research. There appear to be many, many life forms living in the Sphere, some planted there by the Grandfather and some, like the Klingons, having made their way into the Sphere on their own more recently.

"Due to this recent contact with the Kapecki, the Federation has gained limited access to the Sphere's control computer—not enough control to interfere with the Sphere's base operations, but enough to request information and to access various areas."

In reply to Cdor Dale Stone (msg # 50):

Marissa listened intently to the briefing and when he was finished , she spoke
"Commodore Stone,assuming we have unobserved access to one of their computers in the future, are we authorized to attempt to get past the limits they have set. It might provide intel, or would you rather just not discuss it and give Command plausible deniability?"

Stone grimaces. "How do you define 'unobserved', Lieutenant? The Computer is an extremely advanced expert system, as close as makes no difference to a true AI. Any access to the Computer should be regarded as being observed. We have high-level computer experts doing what they can to circumvent the AI, but that's way above your level of expertise. These are experts who design high level systems, so its best if thy're left to their arcane studies. Lieutenant Dul has already tried what they refer to as a 'Kirk attack', and it seems not to be effective. Bear also in mind that if Commander Olivaw wishes, he can shut off our access entirely, as he seems to have a neural link to the computer. Best not to try antyhing cute with the Computer... for now, at least. We believe that the Computer's Avatar was 'playing dumb' and was fully aware of what Lt. Dul was attempting. It is our experts' opinion that the best way to proceed is to treat the Avatar as a person."

In reply to Cdor Dale Stone (msg # 52):

She nodded to him

"Understood, just clarifying. Thank you Sir.

One other thing . If Lt Sloane wishes to speak with Lt Kurasa, who I believe is on this base, is she available, Sir?"

Stone looks at Zed. "Lt. Sloane, if you wish to consult with Lt. Kurasa, We can make time available. Her studies don't start for a couple of days."

"I'm still not clear on just what is expected of us," Argent speaks up.

"We've discovered the origin and the secrets of the Sphere, and any additional secrets it might hold have been effectively removed from our ability to find them."

"If there are several thousand different species on the inner surface of the Sphere, isn't that the realm of the biologists and anthropologists? Of what use will we be?"

"Also, has a latitude and longitude grid been established for the inner Sphere? Do we have access to any records of all those species, and where they might be found?"

Commodore Stone turns his attention to Argent. "True, you've discovered the identity of those who claim to have built the Sphere, but you haven't by any means discovered all the secrets of the Sphere itself. The mission is very much in the beginning stages. Remember, the surface area inside the Sphere is 1.26x10¹⁷ square kilometres, whereas Earth's surface area is 5.1x10⁶. In other words, more surface area than all the worlds in the Federation by far. We need all the different scientific specialties known to us to fully explore the Sphere, and with the Dominion War just ended, resources are at a premium. True, the Dyson Sphere Exploration Mission is a high priority, but it's a monumental task that may take centuries. Add to that the possibility of the alternative dimensions potentially contactable by the Grandfather, the Kapecki and the Finori, it also has become something of a hot potato scientifically, politically and militarily. It may actually be the most important discovery the Federation has ever made. That is why the commandant of the entire Dobhran Sector, i.e. myself, has been ordered to take a personal interest in this project. When you take into account the vested interest our friends and allies the Klingon Empire have in the Sphere through the stranded BortaS crew's descendants as well as its proximity to the Empire itself, you can see what immediate political ramifications there are."

In reply to Cdor Dale Stone (msg # 56):

As Sloane hears Lt. Swann request about digging deeper into the Sphere computer system ((msg #51), he smiles to himself.  He thinks that is the type of ambition he likes in his crew.

Sloane then turns to Lt. Swann (msg #54 & 55) and replies "Yes Commodore, talking to Lt. Kurasa will likely be very helpful.  Any first hand background information I can get will be helpful.  Nothing beats first hand intel, so much can be misunderstood when just reading the reports." as he gestures with the PADD he was handed.

It was not until Commodore Stone's last comment about the shear size of the Sphere did Sloane actually start to appreciate his new assignment, fresh off of a combat assignment he thought he was going to be on a boring exploration assignment. Now he started think there could be so much more to his new placement.

The comment that caught him most of guard thou, and caused him to blurt out "Possible alternative dimensions, is that a possibility here? Do we have the information available to deal with that scenario?"

Stone replies, "Yes, Lieutenant. Not only is it a possibility, it's a confirmed reality. The crew of the Runabout Lena led by LCdr. M'Rel," he grimaces "have had several misadventures which have touched on multiple alternate dimensions, including interacting at some length with Dr. Morbius, or Möbius as he prefers to be called, not to mention an alien who has begun hanging around with them, named Gurrrps. This creature seems to have the ability to cross dimension or "shadow walk" as he puts it."

He stands up, stretches and begins to pace.

"LCdr. M'Rel is the CAG of the Dyson Sphere. He's an extremely quirky and somewhat insubordinate character. His science officers, Lts. Seth and Leiliri, are more level-headed, but Lt. Tal, his engineer, is a typical Tellarite although he seems to have an affinity for Klingons."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:16, Wed 31 May 2017.

In reply to Cdor Dale Stone (msg # 58):

"Commodore I have read many of Lena's reports and some of there actions seemed unorthodox so I wasn't sure how much weight to put into them. In the event we travel to an alternate dimension do we have the information and means available to get back, or do we have to count on this Dr. Morbius."

Watching the Commodore pace Sloane decided not to push for more details on the Lena's mission reports or even suggest talking to them even though he was sure as CAG he would talk at some point shortly after arrival with LCdr. M'Rel.

"What will our actual mission be when we arrive at the Dyson Sphere.  Will it be more detailed follow-ups to areas already explored or exploring new areas. This will help us focus in on what preliminary investigation we can do while travelling to the Sphere."

OOC: you had to expect me to respond here: Seth more level-headed.  He might remember you saying that.

In reply to Lt Zedrick Sloane (msg # 59):

"Not sure we're going to be in a position to 'cross over' Lt. There's plenty of space to roam, just within the sphere, without venturing into alternate dimension."

She turned to Commodore Stone. "We're going to play a part in the BortaS city visit, are we not Sir?"

Stone answers, "The BortaS mission is going to involve a great many people, and the Thames will almost certainly be involved. That decision will be up to Commander Samson. Dimensional crossover missions are of course not a priority, but if the Thames gets a chance by all means take it, purely as an intelligence gathering proposal. Even LCdr. M'Rel's transdimensional adventures all—at their core—have been inpromptu affairs. But, and I want to stress this, you are not expected to active seek out such opportunities. On a final note, we will need some coordination with Lt. Talbot, the Sphere's Intel officer. Lt. Sloane will have his plate full as the Thames CO, so the XO will have to liaise with Lt. Talbot."

"Some last-minute additions to your team—Ensign Talja Gröen has just been promoted to Jaygee and will be assigned as you Biosciences Officer, and the alien the Kitchissippi freed from the Gamma Two station will be joining you to work under Lt. Gazzo in Tech Assessment. She is skilled in robotics and will be an asset in dealing with any mechanoids you may encounter."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:28, Thu 01 June 2017.

In reply to Cdor Dale Stone (msg # 61):

" Hmmn, it should be an interesting crew.
Lt Sloane,do you want me to contact Lt Kurasa and set up a meeting?"

Commodore Stone replies, "That won't be necessary, Lt. Swann. Lt. Adler will handle it. It is her job, after all."

This message was deleted by the player at 21:59, Fri 02 June 2017.

In reply to Cdor Dale Stone (msg # 63):

"As you wish Commodore. Just trying to be a good XO, and make appropriate arrangements.

She turns to Sloane. "Anything else Lt?"

In reply to Lt Marissa Swann (msg # 65):

"Lt. Swann, I think we can start by you briefing me about our two new crew members, as well as, the BortaS"

Turning the Commodore "Commodore Stone, when will we be departing for the Dyson Sphere, I'm eager to get started."

The Commodore replies, "Actually, Lt. Swann has not yet met Lt. Gröen and Ms. Dahlakino. Lt. Merawdr has, however, met both. Lt. Merawdr, would you be so kind as to bring Lts. Sloane, Swann and Clare up to speed on that subject. Lieutenant Sloane, Since Cynthia has done your in-routine, you may depart anytime, but you wanted to speak with Lt. Kurasa first. How does 1300 hours sound? She has the afternoon available, according to her schedule." He gestures to his PADD. "I'll have her brief you and she can give you her impressions of your new crew members as well."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:25, Sat 03 June 2017.

SD 53083.553, 1300 hours, February 1, 2376

After lunch [OOC Yes, Argent, another meal], the crew of the Thames arrives at a study hall where they are scheduled to meet with Lt. Kurasa. She is a tall, athletic, dark-haired woman in Operations gold, whose black irises and pointed ears betray her mixed Betazoid-Vulcan heritage.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 68):

Shione was reading command protocols on her Padd when the Thames crew entered. She nodded to Nivran, and smiled at Argent, before extending her hand to the new officers.

"Nice to meet you Lt's Sloane and Clare. A word of warning, you had better watch out for Argent's Cat jokes, and if he asks for a scratching post, you should likely draw the line.

So I expect you're curious about your new crewmates. Argent know Talja better than I but in my experience, she is a solid, and skilled officer.

Your wild card is named Dahlakino. She is a Twilek, and a member of a monkish style order, known as the Jedi Knights, but at the level equivalent to a squire, I think.A Padawan learner, I believe she called herself.

They are the keepers of order in her universe, but have fallen on hard times, and fight against a great evil there. Her talents as an Engineer, and her knowledge of robotics, should be of great use. She is intelligent, hard working, and eager to make a difference while she is in our universe.

The Kapecki are a wild card in the sphere. After the Enterprise arrived I spoke with Commander Data, and the assessment is that he shares many things in common with them.

However,in my report, which you have read by now, I stressed that you should be wary of them. They are immune to telepathy, and are therefore inscrutable, so we have only their word, that they are benevolent.The access codes they gave us could likely be changed with a mere thought from Cdr Olivaw, So if you have the chance to check out any of their facilities, I would do so, while we enjoy their cooperation"

She smiled, and took a drink of water from the glass in front of her." So that was a lot of talking for me, what questions do you have?"

Obviously I'm not gonna talk with myself, so Marissa is busy elsewhere ;)
This message was last edited by the player at 14:50, Sat 03 June 2017.

In reply to Lt Shione Kurasa (msg # 69):

"Likewise, nice to meet you Lt. Kurasa.  Thanks for giving me the heads up about Argent" Zed says with a smile.

"I will be sure to follow-up with Argent about Talja"

"Not familiar with either Twilek on Jedi Knights. Keepers of order you say. And being monks I envision them being very focused on something specific, what are these monks believes, is it belief based, focus on a particle skill, discipline based?" Lt. Sloane asked

"Doesn't seem to have much connection to engineering or robotics.?"

"The Kapecki, seem to be a real wildcard if they are similar to Commander Data.  So if checking out their facilities an official mission based side order or an opportunity based suggestion. Just want to know how to prioritize. And either way do we have a good indication of where there facilities are." Sloane finishes.

In reply to Lt Zedrick Sloane (msg # 70):

"Sorry I don't know much about her order, but she is a very attractive, though."
A wistful look briefly crosses her lovely face

"I think Engineer was simply her job, and her universe seems to have more,...Droids, I think she called them."

She shrugged at Sloane's comment regarding the Kapecki "I'm not sayinmg don't trsu them, but their cooperation does seem to be a little too good top be true.

Anything else Zedrick?"

In reply to Lt Shione Kurasa (msg # 71):

"Not really, I'm somewhat eager to get going and see the Dyson Sphere in person. I keep hearing how big it is but I really can't fathom it. " Zedrick replies with a smile.

"Once everyone is ready I'm hoping we can head out. I'm not much for just seating around, I love the thrill of action." He adds.

After their meeting with Lt. Kurasa, Zed and Clare rendezvous with Marissa at the Thames, while Argent and Nivran collect whatever personal items they had with them. Once the two felinoids have rejoined the others at Docking Bay 94, Starbase 21 Control tells them, "USS Thames II is cleared for departure from Starbase. Space doors opening for departure. May the Great Bird of the Galaxy guide you." The Thames glides effortlessly out of the Hangar Bay and enters the departure corridor from Felakon III's orbit.

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 73):

Once finished plotting course for Dyson Sphere, Zedrick turns to his crew and says, "Well we have a bit of time before we get to the Dyson Sphere, I know some of you have already served a bit of time there.  Tell me what I should expect? What's the base like? What the commanding officer like?" He pauses realizing he could ramble on but figure to give them a bit of a chance to reply.

Nivran replies, "The commanding officer is a Human woman named Cdr. Delilah Samson. She seems an excellent officer and runs what the Humans call a 'tight ship'. I've only been at Dyson Base for about two weeks, but I've been very impressed with her. I've spent most of my time at Outpost Three, which the crew call 'Dodge City', which seems to some peculiar Human in-joke. Lt. Atek runs Outpost Three. He's a Betazoid and also seems a competent officer. The recent events following the First Contact with the androids has been turbulent. There was a conflict between Lt. Kurasa and Lt. Dul, who was affected by some sort of neural infection. Lt. Dul has been transferred to the Enterprise, as has Lt. Kurasa, who have reconciled and apparently long-lost sisters. I's very confusing..."

In reply to Relic GM (msg # 75):

Marissa had little to say, and sat quietly during the discussions.

Sloane seemed to be a capable officer, and was interested in hearing from his crew. That was all good, but given that she hadn't served on Dyson, she waited until the discussion came around to something she could speak about.

In reply to Lt Marissa Swann (msg # 76):

"So Cdr. Samson runs a tight ship.  Like the sound of that.  When on missions I like a well run crew, but I also understand the importance to unwind between missions.  I know I have a time or two." Sloane says with a grin.

"So it looks like most of us are new to being assigned to the Dyson Base.  So what was everyone's last assignment?" He asks as he looks at the sensors and controls to make sure they are not caught if guard.

<OOC> gives me a bit to build my own back story if asked in return.

Nivran gives Zed the following information:

Shortly after shi was conceived hir mother was the victim of a major radiation leak which while hir mother survived the radiation it had an adverse effect on her fœtus. At first no one realized there was a problem until Nivran was born, with black fur and a white strip on each side of hir face from the eye to the corner of the mouth, and having a dual gender, all caused by mutations resulting from hir exposure to radiation while still growing in hir mothers womb. Growing up Nivran was ridiculed by others due to hir fur coloration and gender which made it nearly impossible for hir to make any friends, but despite this shi always tried to be nice and caring towards others, as hir mother taught hir.

Nivran was almost constantly getting into fights growing up though due to other children not liking hir ignoring their taunts but in every case the other children started the fight but Nivran was the one to always end them, especially after hir father started to train hir in unarmed combat while shi was still young. During hir Trials of Ko’Rathivor some of the others the grew up with hir banded together and interfered with hir trials but even despite this Nivran came through successful in the end, but also realized that no matter what shi did shi would never be really accepted, but then to make matters worse hir parents disappeared during a patrol they had been assigned in space and shi found out that the Mirak where making no effort to find out what happened, so Nivran decided to leave and join Star Fleet. Hir parents had a human friend from the Federation that shi had liked so shi talked to him about how shi could get into the Academy as it seemed to be the only place where shi might be able to go and not put up with the same problems shi faced on Oranth, hir parents friend turned out to know some Starfleet captains and the next time one was on a patrol nearby Nivran used a shuttle to go out and meet the captain's ship and the captain reviewed Nivran's records plus the recommendations shi had that said shi already had a spot reserved for hir in the Royal Navy if shi chose to join, and wrote a letter of recommendation for Nivran to be allowed to join Starfleet. Doing the entrance exams for the Academy had actually been easier for Nivran then shi had thought they would be, but shi was slightly disappointed once shi arrived at the Academy, as it seemed like even here shi would have to put up with the same things shi had back home. But at least at the Academy things were forced to be more low key due to the rules that were enforced properly, but shi still never found any one shi could actually consider a friend, especially in hir combat classes. When shi graduated from the Academy shi was one of the top cadets in the combat courses and while proud of it shi was still prouder of the first time shi had beaten hir father during their training.

Name: Nivran
Rank: Lieutenant (jg)
Position: Tactical/Engineering Officer
Assignment: USS Thames II NCC-74033

Species: Mirak (Jubata clan)
Gender: hermaphrodite
Age: 28

Background:
  Birthplace: Oranth, Izar system (Mirak homeworld)
  Birthdate: 2348

Service History:
  Early Life History: Martial Arts Trained
  Academy Life: Engineering Cross-Trained
  Cadet Cruise: Section Leader (1 year)
  First Tour: USS Gettysburg, Deep Space Exploration (2 years)
  Second Tour: USS Columbia, Hostile Frontier Defense (Dominion War, 3 years)
  Third Tour: Dyson Base Exploratory Mission (current)

Physical Description:
  Height: 2.34m
  Mass: 125kg
  Physique: Slim, feminine, but athletic
  Hair: solid black over hir entire body with white tear stripes
  Eyes: crystal blue
  Complexion: furred
Personality
 Nivran is usually fairly easy going, varying between being talkative or quiet. Shi refuses though to take any kind of leadership role where hir choices might put others at risk but when it’s just hirself that at risk shi has no problem making hard decisions.

[OOC: Mirak are the in-universe counterpart to the Kzinti. They do not have bat-wing ears or naked rat's tails. From the Beta Quadrant, they fought several wars with the Klingons before running into the Federation, when they were defeated by Captain Kelvar Garth in the battle that won him the sobriquet Garth of Izar]
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:14, Fri 16 June 2017.