Briefing and Shakedown Cruise Part #1

Posted on 12 Aug 2025 @ 12:11pm by Captain Jasmine Somers FCapt & Lieutenant Commander Samantha Smithson SB51 & Lieutenant Commander Paul Sharpe & Lieutenant Karyn Somers & Master Chief Petty Officer Lucy Armitage & Lieutenant Commander Leland Hawksley & Major Emily Janeway & Lieutenant Thex sh'Zoarhi & Lieutenant Lamia ‘Mia’ Kildare & Lieutenant Matthew Thompson & Lieutenant Paul Winchester & Lieutenant Serina "Reaper" Donovan & Lieutenant Margeurite "Maggie" LeFebvre & Lieutenant JG Faith Benson & 1st Lieutenant Cassandra Matthews & 1st Lieutenant Gavin Ross Dr. & Ensign Alexi Michelle Brevet & Ensign Otes Ze & Ensign Homer Estonburry & Ensign Cael Maz & Chief Warrant Officer Glenn Stone Mr & Warrant Officer K'Muss & Master Sergeant Thomas Zang

7,610 words; about a 38 minute read

Mission: S04 Episode 02 The Hackers Backdoor (Main)
Location: USS Tomcat Briefing Room
Timeline: MD: 00

[ON]

It was finally time to test the new retrofitted ship, but this briefing would be a little different. Commander Sharpe would be here, but only to give a brief on the ship's changes with the upgrades and such. Fleet Captain Somers was in the briefing room of the newly refurbished Tomcat with her Aide, Lucy, setting things up.

"You know, Lucy, it is going to be strange not having Remy around for this mission", Somers said.

"I know he was always full of it", she said with a smile.

"He was full of something", Jasmine said as both women laughed. The comments were not mean; it was just two women chatting. Just then, both looked up, surprise on their faces.

"You both look like you got caught with your hands in the cookie jar", Sharpe said with a sly smile. He just shook his head ruefully and took a seat at the back of the room.

With a dirty look at Sharpe, she tapped her Comm badge =/\= All Tomcat crew report to the Tomcat Briefing room immediately, Somers out =/\= Jasmine said and closed the link. Now all they could do was wait.

Major Emily Janeway entered the USS Tomcat’s briefing room with disciplined precision, her marine uniform pristine despite a faint tremor from the neurotoxin’s bioweapons effects in 2405. Her violet eyes scanned the room, noting Captain Somers, Commander Sharpe, and Master Chief Armitage. She felt the weight of the carved figurine of a rearing Friesian stallion, its ebony form evoking the breed’s medieval warhorse valour, secured in the pouch of her Cross Belt, a constant reminder of resilience.

This ship marks a new mission, yet my past lingers, she thought, recalling her 2396 revival.

Responding to Captain Somers’ summons, Janeway adjusted her holstered cross belt and faced the leadership. Her rasping voice, scarred by the brutality of the effects of neurotoxin, conveyed authority.

“Major Janeway, reporting, Captain,” she said, words aligned with Starfleet protocol. “I am prepared for the Tomcat’s shakedown cruise briefing.” She nodded to Commander Sharpe, then focused on Somers. My assignment demands focus, despite temporal displacement, she reflected.

Janeway sat, ready to apply her marine expertise to the mission.

Fleet Captain Somers looked up at who entered, "Major, you feeling okay?" She asked.

Janeway met her gaze, voice steady despite its rasp. “Fit for duty, Captain. Neurotoxins are currently under control. Thank you, Captain ma’am.”

The Captain nodded, "Okay, but make an appointment to see Doctor Ross, the Chief Medical Officer, he will need your full Medical file and such, but otherwise welcome to the Tomcat", the Captain said.

“Understood, Captain,” Janeway replied, her tone crisp. “I’ll schedule with Doctor Ross post-briefing to ensure my medical file is transferred. Appreciative of the welcome, ma’am. Ready to contribute to the Tomcat’s shakedown cruise.”

"Oh, our missions are strange sometimes, and this will not be a normal briefing," Captain Somers said.

“Understood, Captain,” Janeway said, her rasping voice a blade of precision, steady and unyielding despite the storm within. “I’m ready for the briefing and prepared to fulfil my role, ma’am.” Her words were clipped, her nod to the crew sharp and professional, oO a shield against any scrutiny as she sat, ironclad, braced for whatever came next. Oo

The Captain just simply gave her a curious look...

Lamia had been sitting with her feet up in her office when the call to the briefing room came through. Picking up the small cushion she’d had behind her back, she brought that, and a PaDD, to the briefing with her. Taking a seat, she offered a polite smile as she made herself as comfortable as she could be, given that she was now 24 weeks along.

Serina was sporting her maternity flight suit as she entered the briefing room, watching for Paul. "Morning, Captain. Flight deck looks marvellous," she said with a grin. As for comfort, that was too much to be desired given the few weeks apart from Lamia. She understood what it was to have a baby, but this was ludicrous. Back pain, legs hurting, and swollen feet, occasionally a bout of nausea, and now the length of time she would be carrying the baby! Oo And where the hell is Paul? Should have been there already, Oo, she thought to herself.

Faith finished off what she was doing before leaving the Bridge and headed for the briefing room, giving a little stretch before actually looking over who may have been there already. Her violet eyes locked onto Major Janeway for a moment. "Why does she seem out of place?" she said to herself under her breath. Brushing it aside, she moved to take her usual seat at the table. "How are you doing, Ms. Donovan. And the baby."

Looking up again, "Hello, Lamia, Serina, Faith, you ladies enjoy your shore leave?" Captain Somers asked.

Faith's right eyebrow lifted a little bit in question, "We were supposed to be on shore leave, ma'am?"

Lamia offered a smile as she looked towards Somers. “It’s been a nice rest from the usual routine, Captain.”

What shore leave? We were busy tuning up our fighters. They needed their final tweaks before we take off and go hopping all over the universe," Serina said, smiling and looking up quickly at the fighter... her eyes opened wide!!!!

"Captain, sorry to interrupt, but one of the fighters is listed as being ready. I checked my stats myself. I have to check it out. I will be back as soon as possible," Serina said as she left running.

The door slipped open as Thex stepped in. The blue Andorian, as always, seemed to light up the room. "Morning, all hope I'm not late," she said with a smile upon her blue face as she took a sip of her coffee.

Thomas entered the room next. He glanced around at all the brass and wondered if he truly was supposed to be here for this meeting. The ship's captain had called for all personnel to be here; he had stopped at his quarter and got changed quickly from having been training. He was dressed in his working uniform as he shifted slightly and decided to take a place by the doors, standing at attention as he did his best to stay out of all the higher-ups' way.

Paul had just finished his report and had made his way to the briefing room, and knew that after the meeting, he would take a look at the new Bridge. He entered the room and smiled at his wife, and headed over to her.

Mags had left the gym. She wasn't on duty yet; she was doing Beta shift today. Which left less time to spend with Todd, BUT more time for exercise and primping. To that end, she arrived in the Meeting room in a breeze of perfumed fecklessness and was wearing an actual uniform instead of her flight suit, but it was askew, and her sunglasses were in their usual perch atop her blonde head. Her makeup, though, was perfect-not too much, but accented by her signature red lip. She smelled vaguely of roses, courtesy of her favourite perfume, and she smiled as she came in. "Hello, sorry I am late," she said. Why was she even here? She wasn't a department head!! She was just a pilot, and she liked that. She liked being able to fly and not having to worry about command-type things.

The Captain looked up to see the newest Pilot enter, "Lieutenant Febvre, kindly remove those sunglasses off your head", Somers said, noting her askew uniform; she would need to speak with Febvre after the briefing.

"OH! Yes, ma'am, my apologies," she said, snatching the sunglasses off her head and tucking them into her pocket. She was a good pilot but not so great an officer. She settled in and sat up straight. No need to push her luck. "How is everyone doing?" She asked. She turned on her PADD, but didn't pick it up yet. She didn't want to appear distracted, though it didn't take a PADD in her hand to distract Maggie. Any number of things- dust, men, the other women, a smell- could distract her from what she considered the "boring" stuff.

"Okay!" Somers said, hiding a smile.

Stone had been dealing with enlisted matters since the crew had returned to the Tomcat. The ship was beautiful, in Stones's opinion. It was much different from the Special Warfare Command and teams. There was a difference in discipline. There were a few Petty Officers he would like to take out of leadership positions. He would discuss this with the First Officer, the Captain, and the new Second Officer, a Major in the Marines, regarding who needed to be removed from leadership positions. Right now, he was called to a staff call in the briefing room. He would have to deal with that first.

He walked in as usual, surveying the staff and the Room and evaluating each person and the briefing Room. He looked for any discrepancies he could find and made a mental note of them. His appearance was impeccable, and his mannerisms were executed flawlessly. Gave a nod to the Room, acknowledging the offers in the Room. Turning to the Captain, a look. "Captain, Good day." He said with just a small smile, then continued to his seat at the briefing table. He set his coffee mug down as the steam rose from the coffee inside.

On the coffee mug, in bold letters, is Warrant Officer. Below that, said Noun and read: 1 A person who solves problems you can't. 2 One who does precision guesswork based on unreliable data provided by those of questionable knowledge.

He sat back a little, taking his mug, taking a drink with satisfaction on his face, and waiting to see who was going to come next, or listening to any conversation that might be going on. He saw the new Major sitting. He put his mug down, watching her closely. Her muscles twitched so slightly. Something was off about her. She was tall and muscular, very much a Marine. Stone stopped looking so as not to look creepy. If the Captain were not reacting, he would not be right now.

He looked at Major Janeway. "Ma'am or Major Janeway. I am Chief Warrant Officer Glenn Stone, Or Mister Stone, Chief of The Boat. I don't think we have met yet," he said in a polite tone but firm, confident one.

Major Emily Janeway turned her head slightly, her sharp eyes meeting Stone’s with a steady, composed gaze. Her posture remained upright, exuding the disciplined confidence of a Marine, though a faint flicker of curiosity crossed her expression as she registered his introduction. She nodded respectfully, her voice clear and measured, carrying the weight of her rank but tempered with professional courtesy.

“Chief Stone, a pleasure to meet you. I’m Major Emily Janeway, Second Officer. I’ve heard good things about your work as Chief of the Boat.” Her tone was polite but direct, with a hint of warmth that didn’t compromise her authoritative presence. “I look forward to working together and getting up to speed on the Tomcat’s operations. I’m sure we’ll have plenty to discuss regarding the crew and their readiness.” Emily responded.

Stone just smiled and replied, "I am sure we will, Major Janeway. We will," He said in a polite tone.

Lieutenant Commander Leland Hawksley, Chief Engineer, strode into the USS Tomcat’s conference room, gripping a coffee mug and PADDs with retrofit schematics. His 6'2" frame moved confidently despite ECH glitches and his wife Lilliana’s nearing due date.

“Captain Somers,” he nodded warmly, “ready to test this refit?” Glancing at Commander Sharpe, his retrofit partner, he added, “Sharpe, she’s nearly perfect.”

Sharpe looked at Hawksley, "Yes, but I am sure you will be able to get all remaining issues to 100%, as it only requires Field Testing. Congratulations on your promotion, Leland," Sharpe responded with a smile.

"Of Course, Capt. Midnight oil and all of that." Leland winked.

Chugging his double cream coffee, Leland set his PADDs down. “Retrofit’s 98% done. ECH and EPS relays need final tweaks. Full report’s here.” He sat, ready for the mission brief, balancing engineering demands and impending fatherhood with hawk-like focus. A few new faces, Leland passively noted.

Somers nodded at Hawksley in greeting and acknowledgement of his short report.

Alexi had been in her room looking over the files, looking for anything she may have missed the first dozen times she'd looked at them. Her concentration was broken by the call to report to the Tomcat Briefing room. She closed the files and secured her data in a small safe before exiting the room. It felt odd reporting for 'staff' calls. But now that she was designated as an Ensign, she had learned she would be expected to participate. Arriving at the briefing room, she entered, feeling a bit out of her element among all the officers. She glanced around briefly to locate an empty seat as she paused just inside the doorway. "Ensign Michelle, reporting as ordered,' she said, directing her focus towards Somers.

"Welcome, Ensign. How goes the decoding of those Terran data crystal dumps?" Somers asked.

She paused mid-step and turned to Somers, "There has been some progress, although there is still a lot to go through." She glanced around the room quickly, then decided that if it had been classified, Somers would not have asked about it. "Of the four crystals, three have been completely decoded, and I am looking for those items you requested within the information." She had been continuing down the table to take a seat as she spoke.

"Excellent, Ensign, keep at it", Somers said.

- Tomcat's Morgue -

In the USS Tomcat’s sterile morgue, Lieutenant Gavin T. Ross, the charming 28-year-old Chief Medical Officer and neurosurgeon with a devious streak, savours a cigarette, eyes closed. His combadge chirps. “Captain Somers to all officers. Briefing room. Now.”

Gavin stubs out the cigarette, smirking. “Computer, clean air, sterilise uniform.” The room hums, erasing smoke. He spritzes Polo Blue cologne, grabs Medical PADDs and a vintage Diet Coke—his quirky vice—and strides out, the can’s snap-hiss echoing.

In the briefing room, Captain Somers glanced up as Gavin sauntered in, passively nodding to others. “Captain Somers,” he says, flashing a roguish grin, sipping his Coke. “New mission? Better not be chasing stars.”

Smiles at Ross "new mission, yes, chasing stars, nope, I will be commanding the mission so it will be pointless chasing any stars", the Fleet Captain said with dry humour.

Ross chuckled. “Certainly.”

Todd Hewitt, the 100-year-old El-Aurian Engineering Specialist, entered not far behind his Chief. Acknowledging Captain Somers with a sharp one-off salute, he took a seat at the table, relaxing. Todd was busy with orders from Leland to ensure that the remaining minor glitches were addressed. Todd, lanky tall, always with a friendly demeanour, turned and winked across the table subtly at his fiancée, LeFebvre.

Maggie saw Todd and beamed. She winked back at him, but tried to remain professional, which was hard because she was fighting the urge to spin around in the chair like a child might. She wanted to be in the Hangars, where she felt most at home. She wondered if she could convince Serina to feign some kind of pregnancy illness next time so they'd be forced to hold these dumb meetings in the Flight Deck area.

Alexi had taken a seat at the far end of the room. She watched as the others entered the room. Some she had gotten to know fairly well through shared missions, others, not so much, or even at all. Still, it allowed her to familiarise herself with those she hadn't met before. For that reason alone, she decided it would be an interesting meeting as she sat back to watch.

K'Muss entered the briefing room of the Tomcat. Gladly, I might add, in his mind, it was great to be home. He nodded his greeting to everyone as he took his seat near the other marines.

Looking around, "Okay, now all that is to arrive is Lieutenant's Thompson and Matthews, then we can get this started," the Captain said.

Serina came to a skidding stop in the briefing room. "Sorry about being late, but Raider 4 was not checked by me for performance and space-worthiness. I will not have any fighter misperform their abilities on my watch!" Serina said as she walked down the row of chairs till she found Paul and sat next to him, giving him a very hard punch in his shoulder, making him wince.

Lieutenant Thompson, reporting as ordered, Matt took a seat among the assembled.

- Outside the briefing room -

Hawthorn finished running the dermal regenerator over the last of Cassandra's bruises. As they reached the door of the briefing room. "Cassandra, you have to say something. " Melody stated again.

"I told you I would deal with it." Cassandra snapped back, her blue eyes cold, her tone, though a low whisper, now seething with the anger she held back. "I told you, it was nothing, a training..."

"I know what you said." Doctor Hawthorne cut the marine off with her own voice, low and angry. "I also know it's a lie. I'll report it if you don't."

"Go ahead, put my kid in danger it will be the last thing you do. I saved your ass. Now you will return the favour." Cassandra hissed dangerously. "I could have let them take you. Remember that. I sacrificed my position and possibly my rank for you. Try not to forget that. Be a little grateful."

Melody frowned and nodded, feeling guilty now as she remembered those horrific circumstances. The doctor took a deep breath. "Mathews, I.."

"You will keep your mouth shut and that's a damn order. Or I might feel compelled to let them know what you're playing with in that lab of yours. Now leave." Though whispered, the command held weight, and Cassandra watched the hurt expression on her friend's face a moment before the young woman turned and headed back the way they both had come.

Straightening her uniform, the best she could. Still stiff from the quick patch job to her bones and muscles, Cassandra composed herself as best as she could before entering the already full room. Never in her life was she more grateful to be late. She nodded to Thomas by the door. She saluted Sommers and the other officers present and then went to an open chair.

Chief Stone took a drink from his mug and set it down. "Glad you could make it, 1st Lieutenant Matthews and who said the Marines were never late?" Joked Chief Stone with some sarcasm in his tone towards Matthews.

Cassandra forced a smile even though her face still hurt, "Oh, we are never late, nor are we early. We arrive precisely when we need to." She shot back at the chief of the boat with as much humour as she could muster.

Faith finally got to the briefing room. She'd been working on something and lost track of time. Giving a glance, yup, everyone must be in there already. Skirting her ass into the Briefing Room.

She'd not even said anything about an apology or explanation as to why she was tardy. Faith sat down where she could and put her hands in her lap.

He was about to say something when he saw her smile and her eyes. It's the eye that always gives someone away. With a hint of pain and muscle control, or a flinch as she smiled. Something had happened recently. Stone would hold his comments for now.

The Captain's Padd sounded. She pulled it out "it seems we are going to be delayed a little in getting the briefing started. We have a new pilot assigned to us, an Ensign Cael Maz, a joined Trill, he is being rushed through Orientation," Somers said, looking up at Donovan and Winchester.

"After the briefing, you need to get him ship launch qualified, start with a simulator until we can get into space and do a live test, understood?" She asked the pair.

"I am sure you will keep your new pilot, Ensign Cael Mazunder, under control. First time he tries to do a fly-through on my flight deck, I will personally test to see how many Gs he can take," said Mr. Stone, sounding a little displeased.

Cassandra chuckled slightly at Stone's warning despite her headache.

"Have the new pilot report to me, Captain", replied Paul, looking at his wife, as he wanted his wife to take it easy and rest up and not worry about work. " And I will put him through hell, Sir."

Janeway gave a curt nod, her violet eyes scanning the room briefly before she excused herself. “Pardon, Captain, I’ll be right back,” she said, her rasping voice low but firm, stepping out to retrieve her canteen of water. Hydration keeps the neurotoxin’s edge at bay. This crew doesn’t need a weak link, she thought, gripping the ebony Friesian stallion figurine in her cross belt pouch for resolve.

Returning moments later, she slipped back into her seat, canteen in hand, her posture ironclad. She caught Captain Somers’ eye and nodded, signalling readiness. “Captain, my Marines are prepped for a pre-launch security sweep if needed,” she said quietly, her voice steady despite the weight of her condition, then leaned back, ready for the briefing to proceed.

Thomas had nodded and saluted the Major when she had left and again when she returned shortly after. He was still standing next to the door, as he was uncertain of where he should be. He looked around at all the various ranks and was still thinking he had been called her by mistake, as everyone here was an officer of both Starfleet and the Marines, while he was literally the only enlisted person present.

Jasmine looked up, "Mr Zang, get your ass into this room properly and have a seat, you a Rifleman or a doorstop?" Somers asked with a smile.

Cassandra motioned to the empty seat next to her. "Got a seat right here. Come pop a squat, Master Sergeant Zang." She offered.

Major Janeway back in her settled into her seat, the water bottle’s cool plastic pressing against her palm, its crisp gulp sliding down her throat like a mountain stream, soothing the neurotoxin’s molten flicker in her veins. Her violet eyes, sharp as splintered amethysts.

Somers’ firm voice cutting like a laser, Matthews’ warm invitation a soldier’s lifeline—while her maroon Marine uniform, its green collar a bold stripe, clung to her, the midnight-blue cross belt glinting with its medallion and chain’s soft clink. The neurotoxin’s heat pulsed, but she steadied herself, her thumb brushing the ebony Friesian figurine in her pouch—a warhorse thundering through her mind’s temporal haze. Zang’s a Marine, not a shadow; he belongs with us, she mused, recalling her own 2396 revival. Taking another sip, she rasped softly, “Master Sergeant Zang, your spots with the team—take it strong.” Her tone, a low blade of encouragement, carried her rank’s weight. Catching Somers’ gaze through the crowd’s restless hum, she nodded, eyes ablaze with resolve, ready to lead her detachment into the shakedown’s unknown.

Thomas jumped when Somers had initially called his name. He started to move as directed, looking for an open seat when Cassandra had motioned for him to sit next to her. As he was about to shift to take the proffered seat, his new MCO spoke up. he took a deep breath and stood a bit taller as he walked over to the seat with confidence that he didn't feel. He had to be proud of his position, though he felt overly intimidated in this setting. He sat down next to Cassandra as soon as he had gotten there.

Stone raised an eyebrow at the tension between Thomas and the Marine CO. If there was a problem, why was it not brought to his attention? If he were addressed that way, it would not fare well for the officer. That was disrespectful for that offer to do that in front of the others, and not to be done in front of the Captain. Again, he would address that latter. He paused on that thought. "Major Janeway, and Master Sergeant Thomas. If you two have a problem, take it outside. We do not need to see that in this briefing room, and not in front of the Captain," he said it with authority and in a sharp but respectful tone.

Thomas looked in shock at Warrant Officer Stone, then at Major Janeway. He looked back at Stone before he spoke. "There is no problem, Sir. She was just reminding me to be proud of my position and not to be nervous here." He glanced at Cassandra, then back at Glenn.

Cassandra reached over and patted Zang's shoulder in reassurance. "Just a misunderstanding, is all. No harm done. Let's get on with this briefing, shall we?" Cassandra urged. Her blue eyes gazed into those of the chief of the boat. Her head was throbbing, and she wanted to finish this important business before she returned to sickbay to get the rest of her wounds dealt with.

Major Janeway’s violet eyes flicked from Chief Stone to Master Sergeant Zang, her posture rigid yet composed, the faint tremor in her hand steadied by gripping the edge of her canteen. Her rasping voice, scarred but resolute, cut through the briefing room’s tension with the precision of a phaser.

“Chief Stone, Master Sergeant Zang, Lieutenant Matthews—no issue here,” Janeway said, her tone a low, authoritative blade, tempered with professionalism. “My words to Zang were encouragement, nothing more. He’s a Marine, integral to our team, and I expect us all to operate as one.” She nodded to Cassandra, acknowledging her support. “Matthews is right—let’s move forward with the briefing.”

Turning to Captain Somers, her expression hardened with resolve, the ebony Friesian figurine in her cross belt pouch a silent anchor. “Captain, my apologies for any distraction.

With warrant offers an accurate way of thinking, he picked up his mug and took a slow drink of his coffee. he shot a glance over to the Captain, then to the Marines sitting. Seeing no reaction from the CO. and having a reply from Janeway, he placed his mug down. It was still an inappropriate way to address the NCO in front of the others. He would let it go for now. "I see and accept your answers. Since the Captain has no objections. We are good," he said in a tone of respect. But his eyes had scepticism in them.

"Almost all are here", Somers said and looked at her beeping Padd "Wow, another new Nugget, this is unprecedented", the Captain commented.

Serina's head spun fast, making her dizzy as she looked at the Captain. "What is a nugget?" Turning her head back to look at Paul, who by now was laughing. She had no idea why he started laughing. Where was the punch line?"Someone, please tell me where the punch line is? Or at least tell me the joke. I want to laugh too!" Serina sat and closed her eyes, and she started crying softly.

"As far as I know, nugget is a way of saying newbie. At least that's what my first CO said." K'muss offered.

"Correct, Chief. Nugget is Pilot slang for newbie. Honestly, Serina, you did not know this, you are a pilot!" Somers said light-heartedly.

Otes had been a little late getting from the space station to the Tomcat. The night before, he had been talking to Tos, who had walked him through 90 per cent of the crew he knew. Otes ran through the corridors, charging through personnel A as he made his way to the briefing room. His uniform had been freshly pressed, and he had managed to get himself somewhat ready before he had to high-tail it to the Tomcat. He arrived at the corridor and took a short breath. "You can do this, Otes... You’ve got this," he murmured to himself, walking up to the door. The blast door retracted. "Ensign Otes Ze, Head Nurse Reporting for Duty, Captain... Sorry, I'm a tad late, the starbase got a little confusing," he said with a slight smile as he motioned to take a seat.

Cassandra was caught off guard to find Serrina already in the room... Moreover, why was Donavon crying? She had just opened her mouth to ask what was wrong when the door opened, revealing yet another officer. She could have guessed his origins; he was a spitting image of his older brother — a nurse to boot. This was a good thing because if this kept dragging out, she was pretty sure her concussion would soon require the attention of a nurse or doctor again. She turned her blue eyes back to the crying Donavon. She wanted to ask what was wrong, but she also wanted Somers to get on with the briefing before Cassandra ended up throwing up over the table. Unfortunately, compassion won out. "You... you okay, Serrina?" she asked finally.

She looked up at an Ensign in Medical colours and entered. "Hello, Ensign, and who might you be?" the Captain asked Otes Ze.

Otes looked at the captain with a brief smile on his face. "Ensign Otes Ze, your new Head Nurse, Captain," he said, holding onto his padd as he nodded towards an open chair — none other than his brother’s best friend, Leland Hawksley.

Major Janeway’s violet eyes flicked toward Ensign Otes Ze as he entered, her posture unwavering despite the neurotoxin’s faint pulse. She nodded briefly, acknowledging his arrival in support of Captain Somers’ greeting. “Welcome, Ensign Ze,” she rasped, her voice steady and authoritative, “take your seat.”

Turning slightly, she caught Lieutenant Matthews’ concerned glance toward Serina Donovan, whose soft crying tugged at Janeway’s disciplined heart. She leaned toward Matthews, murmuring, “Keep an eye on her, Lieutenant. We’re a team.” Her tone was low, encouraging, Marine’s quiet resolve.

Janeway then faced Captain Somers, her expression unyielding. “Captain, my Marines are prepared and awaiting your briefing. Ready to proceed, ma’am.” Her words, clipped and precise, carried the weight of her rank, anchoring the room’s focus on the mission ahead.

Otes smiled at Major Emily Janeway. "Thank you, Major," he said, seating himself now next to Hawksley, turning to smile at everyone gathered.

Major Janeway’s violet eyes tracked Ensign Otes Ze as he settled beside Lieutenant Commander Hawksley. Her posture was rigid yet composed, the faint tremor of neurotoxin steadied by her grip on the canteen. She offered a curt nod to Otes, her rasping voice carrying quiet authority. “Ensign Ze, good to have Medical on board. Ensure your team’s ready for the shakedown’s demands.”

Otes looked to the Major. "First thing on my list, as soon as I can, is to get to sick bay and take a stock of who and what we have, Major," he said, placing his hands on the table.

Major Janeway nodded curtly at Ensign Ze, her violet eyes sharp, neurotoxin’s pulse steadied by her canteen’s grip. The Friesian figurine in her cross belt grounded her. Noting Matthews’ glance at Donovan’s sniffles, she leaned back, uniform taut, gaze sweeping Stone and Somers. Her silence commanded, Marines ready, awaiting orders.

“NO WAY!” Leland blurted out, having completely LOST HIS MIND. IMPLODING. Hearing the words of a young Ensign Ze-MANNNN!!!

Leland’s head immediately cocking like an English spaniel darting to the object of extreme endearment. “What…. Your Ze’s BROTHERR!!!!!!!! OHHHHHHHh, I GET it NOW.” Leland Guffawed, before tempering, tempering…. Tempering himself internally. Breathe,

“Welcome. Aboard. The Tomcat!” He gleamed a beaming smile back at Brother ZE.

Otes smiled as he looked to Leland, "Thank you, Commander Hawksley, my brother sends his warmest regards" he said with a small smile, keeping up his face.

Ross looked up from his medical PADD and settled into a more comfortable position in his conference room chair, stretching slightly to shake off any lingering fatigue. He was deeply engaged in reviewing a medical report about staff and patient care, the words almost resonating in his mind. “Ensign Otes Ze, Head Nurse.” Gavin's pen glided smoothly across his pad as he carefully entered prescriptions for patients already logged in the sickbay system.

“Congrats. Welcome to the Tomcat.” Gavin said with a pleased nod, both in Medical. The young man seemed confident and highly skilled in his scientific medical expertise. Dr. Ross responded with a warm nod and a gentle half-smile, welcoming the new officer, Ze, Head Nurse.

Otes smiled at his Department head, "Thank you, Doctor. I look forward to many moons serving with you and the tomcat." Otes had done a little homework on his chief of staff and, to say the least, Otes was impressed and knew that from this man he would learn more than he could hope for.

Her gaze shifted briefly to Serina Donovan, whose soft crying still lingered in the room’s tense air. Janeway leaned slightly toward Lieutenant Matthews, her voice a low murmur, “Matthews, keep supporting Donovan—discreetly. We need her focused.” The words were firm but laced with a Marine’s camaraderie, reinforcing the team’s strength.

Turning to Captain Somers, Janeway’s expression hardened with resolve, the ebony Friesian figurine in her cross belt pouch a silent anchor. “Captain, my detachment is prepped for the security sweep and any mission requirements. Awaiting your orders, ma’am.” Her tone, sharp and precise, cut through the room’s restlessness, signalling readiness and redirecting focus to the briefing’s purpose.

Not that Chief Stone did notice the CAG, Donovan sniffling, still unsure what was going on with that. However, it did not significantly disrupt the briefing. Turning now to the Nurse, " Ensign Otes Ze, yes, welcome to the Tomcat." The warrant officer stared before his facial expression changed to one of frustration. "I am sure next time you might think of bringing a Padd with the latest medical reports and the statute of the medical department," he said, not in a condescending way, more as a piece of advice that should be followed. He said all that, sliding his Padd over to the Ensign. "It should be all there to look over." The Chief said with a smile that bordered on sarcasm.

Major Janeway’s violet eyes swept the briefing room, her posture unyielding despite the neurotoxin’s faint burn in her veins. She gripped her canteen, the ebony Friesian figurine in her cross-belt pouch grounding her resolve. Chief Stone’s sharp advice to Ensign Ze and Serina’s lingering distress hung in the air, but Janeway’s focus remained razor-sharp on the mission.

Rising slightly, her rasping voice cut through the room with measured authority. “Captain Somers, ma’am, my Marines are locked and loaded for the shakedown cruise. Security sweeps are prepped, and we’re ready to adapt to any curveballs this refit test throws our way.” She nodded to Ensign Ze, her tone firm but encouraging. “Ensign, Chief Stone’s right—get those medical reports squared away. We need Sickbay at peak readiness.”

Her gaze flicked to Serina Donovan, softening briefly with a Marine’s camaraderie. “Lieutenant Donovan, you’re our CAG—your pilots are counting on you. We’ve got your back.” Turning to Lieutenant Matthews, she added quietly, “Matthews, keep her steady.” The words were clipped, a subtle directive to maintain team cohesion.

Facing Captain Somers again, Janeway’s expression was ironclad. “Captain, my detachment stands ready for your orders. Let’s make this shakedown count.” She sat, her violet eyes blazing with resolve, signalling the crew to refocus and move forward as a unit.

Lamia’s attention was on Serina; there was something awry for her to be upset during a briefing. She would wait until after to try and catch Serina to see if there was anything she could do to help.

Cassandra nodded. The movement was making her dizzy. It made her stomach churn. Between the broken ribs she was hiding and the concussion it was hard to maintain her military bearing. Now, a new sorta struggle of trying to swallow the vomit that kept threatening to climb up her throat. She wanted to lie her head on the desk, just pass out. Unfortunately, her situation forbade it. So she kept her eyes on Serrina as ordered and hoped that Somers would keep the briefing brief.

Stone not missing a beat, observing everyone and evaluating everything. Watching and learning about each officer and enlisted in the briefing room. The new officer under his gaze was Lieutenant Matthews. He probably would not have even noticed her, except that her head moved forward slightly and her eyes fluttered, showing her pain. She was moving in a way to protect her midsection, and her breathing was light. He was surprised no one else noticed her pain. Stone started to wonder what he had gotten into with this ship and its personnel.

The Chief Warrant Officer took a deep breath to calm himself. He was a bout to explode. He took a drink of his coffee, finishing it, and made it obvious. He stood up and moved towards the replicator in the room. He was moving by Lieutenant Matthews' chair, rubbing it and making her twist just a little, and watching her reaction.

It was subtle, almost unnoticeable, the soft gasp. The tightness around her blue eyes. She said nothing, though her insides felt like a punch to the gut. Her body protested against the involuntary movement. She wanted to curse at Stone. It was an accident, though; he hadn't meant any harm, the room was after all pretty full, and he had no way of knowing what she was dealing with. Knowing that didn't make it hurt any less, though. Nor did it stop the wave of dizziness that swept over her. One involuntary action triggered another as her stomach lurched in a painful spasm that made her eyes slightly tear up. 'Oh sweet lord, ' her mind screamed, 'not here, not in front of everyone.' Outwardly, she said. "Damn it, Donovan, you're making me want to cry now, too." She took the opportunity to wipe her eyes carefully, the movement calculated.

Stone paused, watching her reaction. "Sorry, Lieutenant Matthews, forgive my clumsiness," Stone apologised. He was right and he knew it. He did have a bit of guilt for causing her pain. He finished his trip, got more coffee, and sat down back in his chair, this time being more careful around Lieutenant Matthews' chair and others. He would deal with it if it got worse. Stone gave another look at Captain Somers. He wondered how much of this got past her. He just took another drink of his coffee, thinking.

Ross noticed. How could he not? There was more to things than just the short emotional outburst from Donavon, and then sensing a pain gradient coming from Matthews' observations... He paused with his pen on the pad. He popped his double-bubble sugar-free gum before eyeing the situation. He would have to speak to the two Officers later, see how things are...

Lamia was planning on speaking to Cassandra as well as Serina, both were struggling, and she would cross-reference with Doctor Ross as well. As medical professionals, they were both responsible for the well-being of the crew.

The Captain noted that there was a lot of tension in the room. She made a note to make sure next fleet meeting it would only be Department Heads and their Deputies.

"Anyway. This has been great, truly a learning experience she said, hoping she didn't sound rude. She was being truthful-it had been eye-opening. "I have learned a lot," she noted. Could they GO now, though? She had a shuttle to inspect.

Major Janeway’s violet eyes blazed with unyielding resolve, snatching her canteen with firm authority to quench the neurotoxin’s searing pulse—its 2405 legacy causing her hand to tremble with muscle spasms and a faint, burning numbness—as she slammed it down with a sharp thud, her thumb grazing the ebony Friesian. Rising with commanding dominance despite the quivering strain, her rasping voice thundered with assertive power, “Captain Somers, ma’am, I stand ready for the shakedown—my Marines will crush any refit challenge with disciplined might.”

Ross stared forward. Something was also wrong with Emily Janeway. As soon as this meeting was over, he needed to speak with her. He took a drink of his Diet Coke and stared at the Major.

Samantha and the Ensign finally arrived at the Tomcats' Briefing Room. Sam opened the door and looked at Jasmine, "The First of your new Flock Captain", she said

Then the Captain looked up as a familiar face entered with a new person, "Thank you, Sam", she said, then addressed the Ensign, "Welcome to the Tomcat, Ensign?" She asked.

Ensign Homer Estonburry, the brand new Science Officer, with the characteristic new-crew smell, looked up and around at the mention of the word 'Ensign.' Seeing that it was the ship's Commanding Officer who had spoken the word, signifying the lowest in the chain of command, he came to attention and said, "Ensign Homer Estonburry, Reporting, freshly graduated from the Academy with that new Science Officer smell. I will endeavour to perform my duties with a level of sophistication that rivals more experienced Science Officers.

Stood at attention, realising that he might have just made a mistake. Perhaps using humour on the Commanding Officer might have been a career-ending faux pas.

*Smiling* "At ease, Ensign, before you hurt yourself, plonk your ass in a chair," the Captain said light-heartedly.


"Yes Ma'am!" Ensign Estonburry snapped a sharp salute, then promptly sat in a chair farthest from the captain as he could. Big meetings where the worst place to be; there are more opportunities to put your foot in your mouth. But a closed mouth gathers no foot!

A short time later, Karyn Somers entered. Jasmine looked up and smiled, "Hello, Karyn, I take it you are bringing another new crewmember, huh?" The Captain asked.

"Yes, Captain, Ensign Cael Maz is a new Pilot for the 100th Squadron", she said, indicating for Maz to enter.

As he entered, she said, "Hello, Ensign Maz, welcome to the Tomcat. If you can find a seat, please take it, and then we can start." She then looked at her cousin. "Thank you, Lieutenant," she added. Karyn nodded with a smile and left the area.

"Yes, thank you, Captain," Cael said with a nod and a soft smile as he began the search for an open seat amongst the already packed room.

Cassandra carefully motions Maz to an empty seat next to Thomas Zang with what she hoped came across as a friendly smile.

With all now Present, the Captain realised the briefing could get started.

[OFF]








 

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