STARFLEET COMMAND
UNITED FEDERATION OF PLANETS

Memorandum to: All Team Cadmus Crew
From: Captain Farah Greene
Date: Stardate 48242.24
Subject: Mission Briefing

Report to Command Center for Mission Briefing.


OOC: There are a few weeks time between the Mihoshi returning to DS5 and this scene to account for repairs and recruiting the new player's character.  As such, there may be additional side threads and private RP that takes place prior to this, but I don't want to hold up the main action doing any of that.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:36, Fri 11 Sept 2020.

Alex arrived looking in good condition. He had been kept fairly busy with the stress debriefs from other crew from the previous missions. He'd given Chief Engineer Blatt some input on improvements he'd like for the Med Bay after the previous missions and constraints put upon the team. (Whether it happened is up for discussion)

Thani was absolutely beaming. Her posture bears forth she is in a fantastic mood, antennae are attentive to the surroundings. "Doctor Dupont, good to see you again."

She had enjoyed the leisure time afforded to her. Spending time with those important to her and the efforts to support her people had her renewed with the Federation spirit.

She took a seat and waited for the rest of the team to show up.

Because of the recent mission and the chaos that followed, Bart had started to refresh his knowledge of Quantum Mechanics and other theories.  He had just finished up Sarok's treaties on Quantum Mechanics and was about to start on sh'Charaz's insights when the announcement for the meeting was called.

Walking into the conference room he smiled at Thani and noticing Dr. Dupont, he sat down next to him.  "Good day all.  Doctor, I'd like to meet with you about your redesign of the Med Bay. At first glance, very doable with some minor changes and considerations."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:35, Wed 16 Sept 2020.

Kate enters the conference room glancing around and smiling at everyone politely.  "Good morning, any idea what this is about?" She asks politely as she takes a seat near the back of the room.  She hoped it wasn't anything too vital since it was nearly the time for her weekly call home to earth.

Vanna entered and took a seat next to Thani looking slightly tired but otherwise in good health.  She took a seat near where she figured Istala was going to be sitting and lay her head down on the table to try to sneak a little more rest in before the meeting started.  She'd been up for most of the third shift doing some continuing education material and honestly didn't feel up to a briefing, not that she wasn't going to do her best to pay attention.

Tekar arrives for the briefing and takes a seat next to Alex.

Jason entered in and found a seat next to Thani and the proceeded to stare at the table till the meeting started.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:46, Fri 11 Sept 2020.

In reply to Jason Walker (msg # 8):

Deckar, walking in, surveyed the room.  He spied a place next to the captains chair and sat next to it. "I hope this day has found everyone well.  The Captain should be here shortly."

Nynev arrived, her appearance in line with what you've come to expect from her over the last year. Her hair was in her typical braid, looser than some styles, yet still regulation. She was disappointed that she was relatively late to arrive, but she gave everyone a small smile and nod as she made her way to her seat.

She seemed unaffected by their recent mission. Whether it was just her natural ability to let such events wash over her without real impact, or her ability to cover it up was left to be determined.

"My apologies. It is good to see everyone," she said as she took her seat, shifting her Hrisal as smoothly as though it was part of her.

Alex nods to Bart. "Excellent. Let's meet after this meeting then. I'm keen on the modifications after our last adventure."

His gaze wanders the room giving everyone acknowledgement through a head nod greeting. His eyes land on Jason a moment and see the man must be in deep thought.

To Nynev. "Why apologize. As long as you made it and the captain is not here, I think we can agree that makes you early." The good doctor said with a smile.

Thani sees her fellow Andorian officer and suddenly her antennae begin to betray her nervousness. Her eyes lock with the other woman, but then she looks away. She had not had time to get to know the woman and suddenly her thoughts wandered to what might be a potential conflict for them ahead. She hoped being in Starfleet will moderate those feelings. Thani made a mental note to herself to speak to the woman later if possible.

"Hello," said in general to all.

Jason was a human she didn't quite understand. He sat next to her but ignored the room. She needed to learn more about humans as they continued to baffle her.

Jason jerked his head up at Thani's voice and blinked a few times. He glanced around and noded. "Sorry, hello everyone. I hope the rest has been good for you."

Istala entered looking a bit bedraggled.  She hadn't gotten much sleep last night for the best of and worst of reasons.  Malko was leaving and she wasn't. Such was the nature of Starfleet, but at least they had a hell of a goodbye.  Still, it hurt.  He had treated her like a princess from the fairy tales and she didn't know if she would ever find another like him.

Eyeing Vanna, Istala went to the seat next to her and sat with a sigh.  They had been together enough for Vanna to know what the sigh meant.  "I bet we got a new mission," she said, hoping something would come up that would serve as a distraction.  "Good.  I'm tired of all this sitting around."

Istala and Vanna were already here, so it wasn't long before their new boss was in the door behind them.  While it wasn't super-early morning, H'Raal was used to having to wake up in the middle of the night to answer questions with regards to operations on the Osler, and it wasn't a habit he'd quite kicked yet, waking up for an hour or two in the middle of the night.

The Caitian Ops Chief made the most of the time he was awake, reviewing the technical specifications of the ship and other such minutiae, but it still led to him waking up and not feeling up to Warp 6, so perhaps in contrast to some of the rest of the attendees, there was a large transparent aluminum cup held in his hand (his PADD was tucked under one arm, his tricorder and phaser pistol stowed at his sides.

In said transparent aluminum beverage vessel was hot raktajino, something he'd picked up since his days on the Ataturk.  "Ladies, good morning," he greeted Istala and Vanna.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:05, Sun 13 Sept 2020.

"Morning Sir." Vanna let out with a slight yawn without bothering to lift her head off the table.

"Good morning, sir," Istala said to H'Raal, straightening up in her chair a bit as she did.  He was new and she didn't have a feel for him yet.  She hated breaking in a new CO.  Was he a stickler for protocol and regulations or more easy going?  He didn't have a feel for her either and until she did, she had to be on her best behavior.  Ugh.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:03, Sun 13 Sept 2020.

In reply to Istala Res (msg # 17):

Smiling a little bit as he drank his Romulan tea. It was something he had picked up in his childhood growing up on Beta Penthe. Leaning over he said softly, "Long nigh, ms Keyes?"

After giving everyone a chance to gather, Farah emerged from her office with three people behind her - Teala, a Catian woman... and Jessica Laurent.  She was about to speak when she caught sight of Vanna with her head on the table and she made it know her displeasure at the sight with a quick glance at H'Raal and Geary - who seemed to be allowing it - and icily asking Vanna, "Didn't get enough sleep, Lt. Keyes?  Should I postpone the mission briefing so you can get a bit more?"

OOC: Because Nynev's player was away, I'm assuming Nynev arrived in a timely manner because Nynev wouldn't be late :p.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:06, Sun 20 Sept 2020.

Vanna sat up quickly as Farah speaks. "Sorry ma'am, no I'm fine just slightly tired." She said quickly having been caught off guard.

In reply to Farah Greene (msg # 19):

H'Raal was doing his best to remain awake, as well - hence the hot raktajino.  The Ops Chief had spotted Geary with his own cup, figuring he'd done the same thing.  He could tell the Captain was slightly irked that not everyone at the table was full upright; well...if he was honest, had any of them expected to get a mission this soon, and a lot had apparently happened in the night between then and now.

"Captain?" The Caitian asked. "We're all here, and we're ready to do our jobs." He nodded to the Caitian woman he'd met at the party last night.  "Does our next assignment have to do with cybernetics?"

Kate gives a confused look at Farah but says nothing about Jessica being with them, her eyes show restrained rage at seeing her though.  What was she doing here, shouldn't she be at court marshall or better yet being transferred to a prison facility?  Not that Kate should say anything, given her trouble with the Cardassians, she should have been confined as well.

Jessica follows the captain in without a word. She surveys the room with caution, expecting someone to excuse themselves, or make a hostile comment. She deserved it, but she was going to take this chance to try to show them a different Jessica. Anyone who does look at her will see what a Starfleet member might look like fresh out of the academy. Uniform in perfect condition, standing at attention with arms behind her back, and a mix of fear and caution as they hope to make a good first impression. Though this was obviously not a first impression for most of the people in attendance, it felt like it was to Jessica after having had her implant removed.

Jason glanced up at the movement and he was looking not towards the captain but the rest of the room at first. Finally his eyes moved towards where Kate was staring in utter fury. Well that explained things but he felt there were others that were going to be harsh on young woman behind the Captain. He observed the rest as he casually crossing his arms over his chest. It wasn't for him to say anything. The Captain had giving Jessica a second chance and he trusted the Captain.

In reply to Jason Walker (msg # 24):

Bart was looking over the day's reports to make sure he didn't miss anything when he felt the tension of the room rise.  Spying the Betazoid, he stiffened.  He wasn't sure how long it had been when he let out the stale air in his lungs and started to breath again.  He wasn't sure what this meant for him as his mind switched from anger and worry with a bit of betrayal thrown in.

Thani can sense the tension in the air. Looking around the room, she takes note of Ms. Laurent. She knew the woman had been demoted but had little to do with the woman herself. Obviously the woman was part of the brief. She was attentive.

Of all the people most impacted by the crewman now standing behind the captain, Alex had plenty of reason to dislike Jessica. But oddly enough Alex just gave an encouraging smile to the young ensign Laurent. Then just observed the rest of the reactions in the room. Giving respectful silence to the captain.

This was Captain Greene's mission brief, she would likely address the elephant in the room.

Nynev blinked at the arrival of Miss Laurent sans cybernetics. Not just for that small but significant change, but for her very presence. She had been responsible for no small bit of danger, damage, injury and drama.

Her lips were tight and her expression was, except to those that knew her well, largely unreadable. For those that did, she was not amused. But there was also an uptick at her brow and wiggle of her antennae that indicated curiosity, as well.

Something was wrong.  While H'Raal didn't know the team dynamics of Cadmus all that well - not yet - there was now a tangible air of quiet in the room.  It hadn't been anything he said, he'd just noted they were all here and that they could begin the briefing.

"Captain Greene?"

Then what the hell was it?

Sometimes a situation called for a bit of warning and sometimes not.  Farah had considered giving the team a heads-up, but she had opted to wait until they were all gathered so she could address them at one time.  "It is a mission briefing, Chief H'Raal," she said, glancing at the Catian, "but first I want to make announcement."

She was by no means and overly tall woman, but Farah might have grown an inch or two as she took on the air of her full authority.  "Almost all of you are aware of the incident that occurred aboard the Mihoshi on way to Jouret IV as well as Ensign Laurent's involvement in it," she said, making a motion to Jessica.  "After a full analysis of the situation and its underlying causes by Dr. Dupont and Lt. Rr'zah..." She motioned to M'Lera.  "I have decided to give her a path to redemption.  A very narrow path.  Both Lt. Cmdr Teala and Lt. Cmdr Matheson feel similarly, but let me be clear, ultimately the decision is mine and mine alone.  After the briefing, Cmdrs. Geary and H'Raal, Chief Blatt and Lt. Cmdr zh'Idrani will remain."

In reply to Farah Greene (msg # 30):

Deckar sat attentively, showing no emotion at the arrival of the captain and the three people behind her.  He was used to surprise announcements, this one had a minor twist to it, which he would deal with eventually.  Once Captain Greene had finished with her introduction he replied, "Aye Captain."

"Aye captain," Alex answered calmly. Eager to meet after with Chief Blatt.

"Aye captain," Thani answered. She had plenty to do and wanted to accomplish before they headed out.

Kate gives Farah a look of disbelief before quickly glancing at Jessica then back at Farah with a frown.  "Yes ma'am." she says in a semi-cold tone, crossing her arms beneath her breasts as she shows with her posture how displeased she is.



Vanna and Tekar both say "Aye Captain"

Catching the smile Dr. Dupont sent her way, Jessica relaxed ever so slightly. She turned her head to the Catian as he addressed Captain Greene for the second time, observing a new face as he spoke. Then the captain explained her situation, and she watched for reactions again. Lt. Seward's lack of excitement was not unexpected, and Jessica added the human to her list of people she needed to be careful around.

Nynev gave the Captain a nod at both her comments about Laurent and her 'request' for her presence after. "Aye, Captain," she said, in agreement with the others. She even glanced at Laurent and gave the woman a small nod.

In reply to Farah Greene (msg # 30):

"Yes, Ma'am."  The temperature in the room had dropped about a dozen degrees between the last time he'd said anything and now.  And it apparently had something to do with an event previous in Cadmus history.  Something this woman had been involved in, and was now being given a chance to redeem herself.  So, clearly something had gone wrong, and she was to be held at fault - H'Raal imagined that he was being asked to remain behind to be informed about the event.

In reply to Katherine Seward (msg # 34):

Farah noticed Kate's reaction, it was hard not to, and if Kate wanted to ask later, that was certainly her prerogative.  Farah had more important things to do at the moment, however, than smooth ruffled feathers.  Hearing the others in the room acknowledge her decision, she moved onto the rest of the briefing.

"To answer your question, while Lt. M'Lera Rr'zah will be joining the team as a cybernetic specialist under Chief Blatt, this mission is not cyber related." She glanced to Nynev.  "It's more security related.   You're heading to Tolen IV to mediate a dispute between the pro-Federation faction who want full membership and separatists who want to establish independent rule.  Besides a good observational point to the Romulan Neutral Zone, Tolen V is rich in dilithium, tritanium and Trillian-D and High Command consider these resources critical towards us fortifying our defenses in case the Dominion become hostile.  Cmdr. Geary will have full operational command while I've been called to Starfleet Headquarters to further discuss the time jumps I reported out of Jouret IV.  To be clear, however, the Federation must remain a neutral party in this.  Our presence is solely to ensure the talks' security and fairness."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:17, Fri 25 Sept 2020.

In reply to Farah Greene (msg # 38):

At the mention of cybernetics, Bart perked up and looked at the catian giving her a slight wave and a smile, acknowledging who he was.

Alex listened calmly. Seemed like a fairly simple mission.

Provide security and ensure fairness.

Based upon the last simple mission he’d be getting additional supplies, just in case...

“Thanks captain,” If it was clear the brief was over and leave the room so the captain could speak to those indicated to stay back.

Well, that sounded rather dull for a change. It would allow her to focus on more testing and hypothesis challenges. Very little need for science on a security mission.

If the briefing was done then Thani would exit the conference room. The captain had a lot to do and Thani would not impede her.

She does glance at the odd pink skin female that has altered the mood in the room. Seems humans are touchy about past grievances and have issues moving forward.

Maybe there was something different, she looked different and less nervous. Quite interesting, maybe she could add additional studies into the human behaviors. They were such a peculiar species after all and she loved them all the more for their quirks.

Nynev perked up at the new mission. This would fall heavily on her and her team. She gave the Captain a nod in acknowledgement, but also understood that Commander Geary would be overall lead for the mission. She looked forward to working with him and hoped it went smoothly.

Jessica noted the nod from Lt. Cmdr. Zh'Idrani and returned a half nod with the tiniest bit of a friendly smile on her face.

Listening to the captain, Jess would wait until it was clear she was finished. If no one else needed the captain's attention, she would ask quietly, "Captain? Would you like me to remain? Or shall I return to my quarters?"

In reply to Jessica Laurent (msg # 43):

Farah pursed her lips and Jessica's question.  She had given the order to the crew, but some things, such as trust, could not be commanded, only earned.  "Remain as we'll be discussing your assignment, but if you wish to say anything to those gathered, Ensign, now's the time."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:27, Fri 25 Sept 2020.

M'Lera nodded towards Bart with a soft smile.  The approval for her transfer had only just come through, so despite her presence at Teala's party, she hadn't formally introduced herself as part of the team.  Later, once they were on their way, she would speak to Bart in a more professional manner.

In reply to Farah Greene (msg # 38):

Well.  This was...not quite what he had expected from a ship of their sort.  While he hadn't yet studied the deckplan in full, Saber-class ships like the Mihoshi were designed as chase and pursuit ships, also for border operations and basic survey operations.  But here they were, being expected to handle security arrangements at a peace conference in what appeared to be a vital system.  Near the Neutral Zone...of course...H'Raal hated Romulans.  For more reasons than one.

The captain herself would be out of action for this mission, and Geary would be in command...the ops chief supposed that made him next in line.  Hopefully it would not come to him to negotiate anything.

The captain's offer to speak was unexpected, but Jessica realized that she had to take every chance she had in order to begin to make some headway. Also, with the captain leaving, Jess would have fewer… she wasn't sure 'allies' was the right word, but fewer people who she could talk to.

Taking a step forward and facing those who remain, Jess looks at each of them. With a bit of strength she didn't know she possessed, and a heart full of contrition and hope, she speaks. "Officers, whether you know me, or my mistakes - or not - I ask you to be upfront with me if any of my actions or words are ever in question. I understand that things will be difficult, and I'll have no trust. I do not expect you to turn around and smile at me just because the captain has said that I will remain. I only hope, given time, you will allow a seed of trust to be planted again, and give it a chance to grow." She takes a deep breath. "This opportunity means everything to me." Looking down briefly, Jess looks at the captain first, and then the officers to see if she can determine whether any of them are willing to give her the chance she hopes for.

Attentive to the young woman who was speaking. "You have injured fellow crew members, but own up to your mistake now. I am curious as to this sudden shift in behavior, but I believe humans have a saying to prove yourself through actions. The captain is giving you another opportunity, this bodes well for you. Perhaps we can speak later when you are free?"

The reception to Jessica was as expected. Alex knew the captain and him were not doing her any favors, but if she could overcome her past with the crew she betrayed, then she would become a much better Starfleet officer. She still had to face those who had been hurt, that would be a tougher reception than the friends of those hurt.

Passing closely to Jessica.  Before leaving the room to prepare for departure.

Surprised by Lt Cmdr. sh'Elliaph's request, Jess nods. "I'd like that," she says with a small, but genuine smile.


As the doctor passes, Jess nods appreciatively before returning her attention to the room.

Jason waited a moment for the room to clear and then paused near Jessica, frowning a little. "Hey, glad to see you trying to do better." He understood all too well about being given second chances and with that he gave a nod to her before heading for the door.

H'Raal had noted the apology offered, and he, too, wanted to find a time to speak with the now-Ensign...but now was not the time.  They would be leaving for the Tolen system within the day, and Tolen was not a nearby system, that much he knew.  He would try and find a suitable part of the journey to sit down with her and offer a few words.

Nynev took in Laurent with what could be considered a stern gaze, her antennae seemingly focused onto the human woman. Her jaw clenched a couple times, almost as if she were chewing. The breach of trust Laurent had created was vast but not irrepairable, she supposed.

She had already given the Captain her nod. What else could she do in that regard. But this was a request from Laurent herself. She finally nodded. "Nurture that seed, Ensign," she said, matter-of-factly.

In reply to Nynev zh'Idrani (msg # 53):

Bart paid full attention to the comments in the meeting, but he could not bring himself to look in the Ensign's direction.  He knew he would have to deal with her eventually, but now was not the time.

In reply to Your Loving GM (msg # 1):

Deckar waited for the people to leave after the briefing was completed and for those that remained to sit down.  "As Captain Greene stated, we are to assist and mediate with the Tolen IV government and opposing faction for their membership into The Federation. Our job is not to directly influence the outcome, but to ensure that both parties are fairly represented in the negotiations."  Tapping on a few buttons on his PADD he brought up the orbital view of Tolen IV. With another push of a button a distinguished visage of a Tolen appeared on the screen.  "The main people at the meeting will be Parak Joffies.  Parak is the title of the spokesman of the planetary government.  Heis a staunch supporter of full membership into the Federation."

Another image appeared, "Senator Phregg. Another supporter of membership.  He is currently the head of the Tolen Defence Advisory Council. He has taken a hard line against the Separtists/  To the point of advocating a heavy-handed reactions to demostrations the past few weeks."

A Third picture rested besides the other two, "And Halan Rizel. A former Senator, he is the leader of the Separtists.  He is quite passionate about Tolen IV remaining independant and sees the Federation as an occupier.  At this time he does not advocate violence and, as far as we know, prevented the more radical members of the separtists from doing so."

In reply to Decker Geary (msg # 55):

H'Raal watched Geary take over the briefing, cuing them in on the various faces on Tolen that they would be dealing with. "If the Tolens didn't live practically on top of the Romulans, I'd probably understand their desire for independence a little more...Commander?" He prompted Geary.  "Do we know if the Romulan government has made any overtures to the Tolens?"

In reply to H'Raal (msg # 56):
Looking at the catian, "As far as the Federation knows, there has been no interference from the Romulans.  The separatists just want to remain independant. While we are, per the Prime Directive, not allowed to interfere with their decisions, we can be good examples of what the Federation has to offer.  We are to be availabe to answer any questions the Tolen's might have."

Deckar changed the screen and added a picture of Ensign Laurant,"Commander H'Raal, your concern is valid though, one which I have thought about, which is why I am assigning ensign Laurant as part of the security detail during the negotiations."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:25, Tue 29 Sept 2020.

Jessica couldn't think of anything that would have surprised her more, and her eyes showed it. Her eyes widened as far as was possible without straining them. However, keeping her comments to herself, Jessica composes herself again. This was her new assignment, and she was going to do it to the best of her ability.

In reply to Jessica Laurent (msg # 58):

Turning to ENS Laurant, "I know this is a surprise to you, but my understanding is that you still have your natural ability to tell if someone is hiding something or lieing.  If we are to ensure the fairness of the negotiations, we will need this information."

"It's a suprise to me, as well, Commander," Nynev spoke up after her eyes went from the man to the Ensign and back.

"Even if she can still do as you say, it would not be our place to interfere with the negotiations, correct? How would our standing there and calling out either side before helpful  to our presence there. In fact, I would argue it would hinder our position and strengthen that of the separatists," she went on.

She looked at the Ensign, once more. "This is not necessarily an issue I have with you, Ensign. This is an issue I have with the idea of using you in such a fashion."

OOC: Using Jessica's telepathy can get into a gray area as far as Federation/Starfleet rules go.  Jess could passively sense someone isn't telling the whole truth or flat out lying, which may simply be part of their negotiation tactics.  Actually reading the mind of a citizen of a sovereign world, however, can be seen as a kind of espionage, especially since a number of the players are part of Tolen's government.  Of course it can all be done covertly and Geary does have operational control.

Tread carefully. ;)
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:05, Wed 30 Sept 2020.

In reply to Your Loving GM (msg # 61):

Turning to the Andorian, "I understand your concern.  First of all, we never blurt out that someone is being dishonest, in fact that is for our information only.  If we feel that someone is being coerced in some manner, then we may have a duty to act upon that information.  Nor am I advocating that she tries a deep mental probe."  Looking up at the screen, "And it could be that they don't wish that a Betazoid be present. In which case, we've lost nothing."

Nynev thought of the races with various levels of psychic ability...Vulcans, Aenar, Betazoids, others...around three dozen known with several represented in their crew. The Federation would have given Tolen IV the standard 'Welcome Packet' which included the basics of the member systems and races, including those that had telepathic potential.

"I imagine the Separatists will already be leery of Federation presence, Commander. If we bring her, or any other crew member like her, we should be upfront about it. I could see them using that presence as fuel for their position on how the Federation could manipulate them," she offered.

Jess considered what was being said very carefully. At the moment, what Cmdr Geary was saying didn't seem to be crossing any lines. She also agreed with the lieutenant that being upfront was a good idea. However, she decided not to speak unless a decision was made that crossed her own opinion of right and wrong.

In reply to Jessica Laurent (msg # 64):

Addressing the Adnorian, "Lieutenant, you make a good point.  We will check Star Fleet's official stance and act accordingly."  Then to no one in particular, "Computer, what is The Federation's regulations on having telepaths in diplomatic meetings?  What obligations do we have to disclose such information?"  Then turning to the Betazoid, "Ens. Laurant, if you don't mind, what are the extent of your abilities?"

Thani itched to be working her brain on a project, but the discussion had devolved into some finer points of security, perceptions, and appropriateness. Though she found asking the crewman the extent of her abilities to be a bit forward. What she knew of the Betazoid race was they were all full telepaths, could read emotions easily, all common knowledge. Was Geary implying she was not full Betazoid, and if so wasn't that personal information not to be disclosed to the crew?

That thought made her slightly uncomfortable herself and for the ensign. Talk about being put in a difficult situation.

Alex was quiet, he didn't know much about security matters or how to manage diplomacy. He did find it odd that Kate wasn't taking lead on the proper protocols on diplomacy during this briefing.

He did look at Ensign Laurent when Geary asked her the extent of her capabilities. Her service record would have been accessible to him, so what was the point of this exercise? Gauge honestly, willingness to respond, or see how grilling her in a very precarious position would push her. A stress test response perhaps?

Unless the Ensign showed signs of distress, he'd merely sit and watch her response. This was being thrown into the deep end of the pool. The old Ensign would have shied away and been timid, but the Jessica he saw was more comfortable about herself.

In reply to Decker Geary (msg # 62):

"Commander," H'Raal spoke up again.  "Do we know anything about the security arrangements at the conference itself?  Not the people, the location.  It occurs to me that a well-placed transporter could serve to abduct any of the representatives to be held hostage."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Fri 02 Oct 2020.

The ensign in question took a moment to look at Dr. Dupont and Captain Greene, hoping they understood why she said what she was about to say. Then, looking at Cmdr Geary, Jess kept her tone even and said, "If you would like a full explanation, that is a conversation better had in a smaller company. Perhaps directly after the briefing."

Jess hadn't liked that question at all, but she was trying to walk a fine line.

In reply to Jessica Laurent (msg # 69):

Looking at Jessica, "Very well.  Since your arrival was kept from me, I shall look at your medical records once this meeting is finished, I shall thus withdraw my inquiry.  Please forgive my ignorance and I do apologize if I have offended you in any way."

Pushing a button and the screen brings up a building, "Per your observation, Commander, we will be setting up the security for the meeting.  For now it will be held at [location TBD].  Lt. zh'Idrani and her team will set up the security measures.  If needed we can transport all parties onboard the Mihoshi, if there are no objections from either party."

Kate observes the building with interest, "Do we know who will most likely be a threat to negotiations?  You mentioned a movement that opposed joining the federation, how likely are they to take violent action against anything we do?  That would really determine which is safer for all parties involved." Kate said as she glanced at Geary.

In reply to Katherine Seward (msg # 71):

"That is a good question." Deckar began, acknowledging Kate's question, "Halan Rizel has prevented violence from the Separatist.  With that said, there maybe some of those with more radical beliefs that may cause issues on their own."

"We might want to play it by ear then, start out on the surface and if any IEDs or dangerous weapons are detected on-premises move the meeting to the Mihoshi as a precaution?" she suggests.

"Perhaps we should consider a social function before the actual conference begins?" Maria suggested.  "It would give Kate, myself and others a chance to meet them and see what more we can learn."
This message was last updated by the player at 23:53, Sun 04 Oct 2020.

In reply to Decker Geary (msg # 72):

"The oversight is mine, Mr. Geary, not Dr. Dupont's," Farah said, realizing what had slipped through the cracks.  She leaned over and whispered something to Teala before adding, "Speak with me afterward and we will discuss the matter within the limits of medical privacy."

Nynev took in the information with little expression. "We will have to plan for the worst and hope for the best, I think is the expression you humans like so much. I would fully expect more radical elements to make a move, but if they are savvy, they may understand that such an action may actually hurt their stance as those worried about such violence may realize the Federation can assist in keeping that to a minimum if allowed to," she offered.

"I would ask for regular scans from the ship and numerous scanning devices available to the ground team for known types of IED's. I would also like to offer EP teams available for both parties, if they desire such protection. And, of course, security for our own delegation. The people likely most at risk will be those Executive Protection teams and we need to be prepared for false flag attacks, should they happen. It will not change how they operate, but we need to look at all the evidence before we respond with undue haste."

"There shall never be Starfleet or Federation personnel in groups smaller than two throughout this event. I must insist on it, and at least one of those much be Security. I would prefer two Security personnel per group, but I understand that we may have personnel limitations thrust upon by the Tolens. That said, we cannot compromise our safety."

(IED = Improvised Explosive Device)
(EP = Executive Protection)
This message was last edited by the player at 03:58, Mon 05 Oct 2020.

In reply to Nynev zh'Idrani (msg # 76):

"Aye captain"

Watching each person as they spoke,"Ms. Seward, A Meet and Greet would be welcomed.  We can also offer guided tours of the ship to answer any questions each side might have."  He was about to address someone else but returned his look, "One other thing, since the Federation is interested in exploration, please se if the Tolen's would allow us to scan their planet for geological and scientific purposes.  We would be more than happy to share with them any information we obtain."

"Good suggestions Lt.  And perhaps set up some proximity detectors for weapons and explosives along with a portable forcefield to protect the meeting room if needed."

Kate smiled at Geary and wrote that down on the list of things that she and Maria had to do.

In reply to Decker Geary (msg # 70):

"Understood.  Istala?  Vanna?  When we get underway, and you're settled in your quarters, report to the Engineering Fabrication lab.  I have a few ideas about how to secure the site for the conference."

There was one other matter that crossed his mind.  "Commander?  One other thing.  I know we said that the Romulans had made no overtures to the Tolen government, but I would not put it past the Tal Shiar to try something anyways.  They're fairly adept at surgically altering their own agents to look like those of other peoples.  I remember reading a report about...two years ago?  Out of Deep Space Nine.  There was a Cardassian plot to destroy the station that relied on an agent changed thusly to resemble a Bajoran.  And if the Cardassians can do it..."

Jessica's only response to the commander was a nod of thanks for his understanding.

Farah had largely sat back and let Geary conduct the briefing.  With him leading the mission, he needed to set the tone and direction for the rest and there hadn't been anything requiring her commentary.  She began to think to herself that this was a straightforward enough mission, then reminded herself so had the previous one.  "You'll have a few days to refine your plans while you're enroute to Tolen IV," she said.  "Unless you have any additional questions, see me in my office, Mr. Geary.  The rest of you, make whatever preparations you need before departing.  Good luck."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 04:38, Thu 08 Oct 2020.

In reply to Farah Greene (msg # 81):

"Aye Captain."  Addressing the rest of the meeting members, "Just to reitterate, We will be the mediators for the negotiations, of which we will be a neutral party.
We will set up the security.
We will have a social gathering and possible give guided tours of the ship.
We will request permission to study the planet.
Lastly, we will represent The Federation, to the best of our abilities."

Changing the screen to the Federation logo, "Unless there is any urgent business to discuss, the meeting is adjurned."

Motioning towards the catian, "H'Raal, one moment, please."

In reply to Decker Geary (msg # 82):

H'Raal approached Geary.  The two men were of equal rank to each other, but as he was the first officer aboard, the Caitian would defer to him, especially since this was not an engineering or technical mission of any kind.

"What did you want to talk about?"

In reply to H'Raal (msg # 83):

"Your suggestion of possible surgical alteration is a good one, with precedence on Deep Space Station K7 and the Klingons, and of course Admiral James Kirk did the same as a Romulan."  Deckar said trying to recall the history lessons from the Academy.  "I would suggest that you get with Dr. Dupont and make sure the security scanners can detect any changes."  Sliding a bit closer to the catian, speaking a bit more softly, "And if we discover anyone following them may be the wiser course of action to discover who they report to."

In reply to Decker Geary (msg # 84):

"We should have time in transit to collaborate, see if our scanners can be adapted for inconsistencies...or maybe, if we're lucky, scan like medical tricorders." He listened as Geary suggested not grabbing any possible Tal Shiar agents. "...I see your point.  Very well.  I'll speak with Dr. Dupont when we get underway."

There was one other thing that had occurred to him. "One last thing.  It occurs to me that with Captain Greene temporarily away for the mission, and you and I the next in line for command of the task force...one of us is going to need to be aboard the Mihoshi at all times, or at least have a capable subordinate running the ship if we're both on Tolen.  You know the crew.  Any suggestions?"

In reply to H'Raal (msg # 85):

He smiled at the catian, "First thing you have to remember is that Captain Greene handpicked the members of her crew.  Even though they may hold a junior rank, they are probably more capable than other Star Fleet officers of the same rank or higher, on other ships."  Even though he had only been with the crew a short time, he had learned to trust their capabilities. "With that in mind, my goto person to hand the conn over to is Lt. Res. "