USS Excelsior http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php Nova, Anodyne Productions' premier RPG management software en-us john.doe@example.com Copyright 2017 Released for Duty http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/24 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/24
The vaporous mixture of steam and water from the sonic shower caressed the body like like a warm blanket. The remaining tingling that had saturated her body for weeks, seemed to just roll away with the beads of water. It was a mystical experience to achieve equilibrium again. For the first time in several weeks the body and mind could retreat from all the details and mandatory tasks of life. Reluctant to turn of the sanctifying mist, she rested her forehead on the shower wall and toyed with the red off switch. She glanced with disdain, closed her eyes, and terminated the steam. She braced herself, opening the shower door from a distance and quickly grabbed the Egyptian cotton towel from the nearby rack. The royal blue towel with the starfleet emblem proudly displayed functioned more as a shield from the assault of cold air outside the shower door. The process of drying was a sensual ritual as opposed to routine. Delicately swaddling the hair prevent further dripping. Starting from the head and drying to the toes created a neutral balance, as the feet were often the first to enter the cleansing waters. Emerging from the mist and shedding the most primordial substance in the afforded a perspective of rebirth: a new start. This was the feeling she was looking for after weeks of fatigue, muscle cramps, and fluctuating hormones.

"Vulcan Spice Tea; hot." Sienae had attempted her best to unify the sparse atheistic pleasure of Vulcan with the Rich colors, textures, and fragrances of Romulus. The oasis she created was a reflection of her own diverse, yet unified genetics. Often torn between two philosophical approaches to life, Sienae could find solace and congruence in a universe of her own creation. One of her more guilty pleasures included a "oneness with the universe" free from the confines of cultural garb and repressed Vulcan notions of indecency. The rift between freedom, emotion, culture, and expectation haunted Sienae throughout her lifetime and into early adulthood. She struggled to find a place to call home until she came to Earth and entered Starfleet Academy. Among the emotionally volatile humans (as her father described them) and the uncivilized uncultured (as her mother described them) Sienae found acceptance for all her physical, emotional, and spiritual traits.

"Begin Personal Log." Sienae paused lying in bed atop silk Romulan grade sheets.

"I am nervous about returning to duty. I can only imagine what my colleagues and subordinates are thinking. My genetic combination and appearance betray my need for vacation every seven years. Unfortunately, my Romulan Pheromones intensify the Vulcan biological process...and intensify...well...everything. I greatly appreciate Dr. Lecourtier's discretion and sensitivity in explaining my unique situation with Captain Gardner. I should have a few weeks of reprieve before I'll have to begin regulating my regular passions. I have agreed to meet with Dr. Lecourtier and update the team of doctors at the Science Directorate on my decision to return to medication or continue with more natural supports and remedies."

Sienae focused her eyes on the vast emptiness of space outside the port window. The topic of her journal was an uncomfortable one. In many ways it was fulcrum of biological and cultural clashes. There was no neutral way of explaining her situation to others without extreme attempts at sympathy, mostly from the women. Men often found the situation to be an asset which could be taken advantage of on a regular basis. From within her own family the topic of sexuality and emotion was something to be purged or confined to intimate relationships with a spouse, neither of which was on her mind at this time.

"Computer, delete personal log and list activity list by priority."]]>
Sun, 22 Jan 2017 00:15:47 +0000
Let Him Posture http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/23 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/23
Lieutenant J.G. Beardsley, Personal Log

Just got off the comm with Dad. I told him about my transfer to the Excelsior, and he barely batted an eye. Just told me what he usually does, about how it'll just be a luxury cruise compared to how he served. Yeah right, Dad. I know you served on the Sutherland--that ship was bigger than this one, and probably more luxurious, too. Who does he think he's kidding? Everybody knows they made them bigger in the past.
Whatever he served on, it wasn't more prestigious than the Excelsior. Let him posture and peacock about his hard life; I know now that I'm onward and upward to greater things. You know...now that I think about it, I bet he knows it too. He was probably just taken by surprise and didn't know what to say. But it's pretty sad that when his daughter surprises him with good news, his first reaction is to downplay it.
Well I'm not letting it get to me. This is my last night aboard Intrepid, and I'll be on the shuttle in the morning.
Computer, end recording.

]]>
Sat, 09 Apr 2016 03:55:49 +0100
A New Journey http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/22 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/22
For four years, she had studied on foreign worlds, conducting research for the benefit of the Alpha Quadrant's most vulnerable species. Her first ship assignment, the Excelsior, would now take her to possibilities she could not imagine, at least that is what she hopes.

Personal Log, Stardate #####

"This is it," she said, "this is where my career has taken me. I feel grateful that Starfleet gave me this chance to pursue my dreams. I have so many ideas and dreams."

She took out a PADD and scrolled down a list.

"Task Force Command approved all my experiments," she said, "Genetics, radiation therapy, acclimatization; so much good can come out of these studies."

She laid down the PADD on the table and sighed.

"Unless our foolishness gets in the way," she said, "The last thing the Federation needs is another war, and I fear that there are many in Starfleet itching to see more destruction rather than a renewed peace. I hope the Excelsior, a most powerful ship, is free of those individuals."

==END==]]>
Sun, 19 Apr 2015 23:39:34 +0100
Chief engineer's log entry http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/21 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/21
"Chief Engineer's Log, Lieutenant Command Rachel Hanssen, USS Excelsior.

"Today, Lieutenant Adow, Senior Chief Miller, and myself found ourselves assisting some junior recent transfers in replacing a plasma conduit in the port nacelle. It was entirely uneventful, save for some uncharacteristic swearing on behalf of the senior engineering staff. I believe that these kids shared more then one laugh at our expense, until they realized that they will now be demagnetizing the starboard nacelle during tonight's graveyard shift with micro-resonators. That should only take them about 18 hours, as the Warp Drive will be offline for routine maintenance as scheduled.

"No other ship maintenance was performed, in preparation for the warp drive maintenance beginning at 0200 hours. We anticipate a warp drive restart beginning at 0900, and should be back online no later than 1100 hours.

"No other punishments were dispensed.

"Duty Roster submitted to the Executive Officer at 15:47 hours.

"End Log."]]>
Tue, 10 Mar 2015 19:25:05 +0000
Romantic Entanglements http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/20 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/20
Yoshi always eagerly anticipated his scheduled calls to Koko. She was performing so admirably at the academy and her results so far indicated she would make a splendid Starfleet Scientist. She loved the stars and so it was only fitting that she major in Astro Physics and Stellar Cartography. Yoshi smiled with pride at the thought.

He wore his favourite black Kimono with grey undergarment. He had a strong fascination for historical Japanese culture and this made him feel at one with it. His ceremonial Samurai Swords hung on the wall above his desk where he now sat selecting Koko from his contact list to call.

She took longer than usual to answer but when she did, Yoshi was delighted to see her in her academy uniform, smiling into the camera.

"Konbanwa!" She greeted. "How is my big brother?"

"Konbanwa, Koko. How are the studies coming along?"

Koko shrugged and Yoshi knew she was just being modest. "OK I guess. I scored 96% on my last assignment." For Koko, this wasn't good enough but for Yoshida, he flt nothing but pride for her.

"That's excellent Koko. Don't be hard on yourself my dear. Mother would be so proud!" encouraged Yoshi.

Their mother Kaori had passed away 12 months earlier after a drunk driver hit her as she walked along the sidewalk. In a moment, all their lives were changed and their world thrown upside down. Yoshi had been furious but could do nothing from the other side of the sector. He was granted extended shore leave to assist in funeral arrangements but felt he could have done more.

A tear formed in Koko's left eye as she acknowledged her brother's encouragement and remembered her mother's tender care. "Thank you." she mustered.

"How is life on the Excelsior?" she asked, changing the direction of the conversation.

"You should visit Koko. The Sovereign is an amazing class of vessel and the Excelsior C in a class of it's own. It is magnificent. I have larger quarters than I have ever had and the engines purr! You need to experience it to believe it. We have an outstanding crew and of course, Captain."

She laughed a little. It seemed her brother became a boy again whenever he spoke of Starships. He had been just as excited with every new assignment and that was contagious. He was the reason she joined the academy after all.

As they continued chatting Koko's personal communicator chimed.

"Who is demanding your attention now?" asked Yoshi. "An admirer?" he joked.

Koko gazed back at him stunned. How could he know? She knew he had contacts at the academy but......

"Koko?" her look said it all. She did have an admirer. Just what he feared.

She mustered up the bravery to tell him. She never lied to her brother. Sometimes she withheld the truth but never lied.

"I have started seeing someone Yoshi." she began. Yoshi's chin fell to his chest. "Please listen." she pleaded.

Of course he would. He always did. "Koko.....we spoke about this...." he attempted before adding, "......go on."

"He is a good man. His name is Harley."

"Harley?" Yoshi wondered how good a man he could be named after an ancient motorcycle. What kind of parents did he have?

"Yes, Yoshi. He is an engineering cadet. Like you, he studies systems and electronics. His father is a Starfleet engineer too. He serves on the USS Sirius as the Chief Engineer."

Yoshi made a mental note to check up on this Chief and his son. "I see." He wasn't happy. "I thought we agreed Koko. Study first. Your Starfleet career is not worth jeopardising for....." he found his voice raising slightly but his sister interrupted.

"It won't be jeopardised Yoshi!" She sighed, "he's a good man. He is serious about his career too. Trust me Yoshi. Please."

Yoshida Okawa rubbed his face. "Ok Koko. I trust you. You know I do. I just care for you and don't want to see you hurt or become distracted. Promise me you will keep me informed of this....Harley," he recalled the name.

"I will brother. You have my word." She replied with a smile of victory. She knew Yoshi only had her back. Her communicator chimed again and she looked anxious to answer.

"Go on Koko. Answer him. We'll catch up later. Be good!" he added.

His little sister thanked him and promised to call later or send a message. "Bye Yoshi." The screen returned to the image of the Starfleet insignia and Yoshida stretched his back and shook his head. His baby sister was in a relationship. He had dreaded this moment for years and now it was here.

"Computer," he said, "Run query on USS Sirius. Who is the Chief Engineer?" and so the detective work began.]]>
Wed, 03 Dec 2014 20:58:49 +0000
Side post http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/19 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/19
14.1504.20.02
Rhiannon entered her quarters, kicked off her shoes, and began stripping off her uniform as she crossed to the bathroom. "I need a long bath," she said as she began filling the tub. Five minutes later she was soaking in warm tub of soothing bubbles surrounded by the soft glow of apple cinnamon candles.

Twenty minutes into her soak the door chimed. From under her wash cloth covering her eyes she asked, "Computer who is it?"

"It is Kedar Dallin."

At the sound of his name she sat up and froze as a wave of excitement and regret passed through her. The door chimed again. "Let him in then lock the door behind him."

"Hello," Dallin said sticking his head in the door as it opened, revealing an open room. Cautiously he entered and the door swished closed behind him. "Rhiannon?"

Taking a deep breath and letting it out, "In here."

Looking around the room he saw the only open door and could tell it was the wash room because he could see the sink in the faint glow of candles. Sticking his head in, a wide smile filled his Bajoran face. "Well I need to make surprise visits more often."

"If I knew you were coming I would have waited to add the bubbles," she said with a seductive smile. "When did you come aboard?"

Dallin took a seat on the edge of the tub and brushed a stray curl from Rhiannon's eyes. "I've been around since about 0900. You were in sessions and I wanted to," he stroked the surface of the water, "make it a memorable reunion."

[To Be Continued] ......]]>
Wed, 16 Apr 2014 09:15:13 +0100
Operations Officer's Log SD 63942.73 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/18 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/18
The repairs to Excelsior are proceeding, but it's making my job harder.

Not only do I have to coordinate the resources aboard the ship, but I also have to coordinate the repair teams from and to the station as well.

Needless to say, I'll be glad to get back on the road...
]]>
Sun, 23 Feb 2014 08:22:45 +0000
Mission Log, Aendeh Dhivael http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/16 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/16
Rachel's afternoon was busy, if for no other reason than appearances. A visiting officer on a starbase, certain activities were expected, and Rachel did whatever it took to satisfy her curiosities before retiring for a nap.

Instead of a nap, Aendeh [Major] Dhivael rose from the depths of her mind. Careful, so as to appear a routine officer just settling in, Dhivael did a cursory, yet thorough inspection of the visiting officer's quarters. Turning up nothing, she pulled a tactical tricorder from her bag. After nearly 20 years in Federation space, and as many years in the service of Starfleet, Dhivael desired to find these examinations unnecessary, but had personally witnessed the effect of becoming complacent. Far too many spies would be caught merely by their own overconfidence, letting their skills and covers slip even for the briefest of times would prove disastrous.

The truth was, the cover that Dhivael and her superiors had devised was less than ideal right from it's inception. Most deep cover agents were designed to be much more difficult to find-- often requiring substantial gene therapy, surgery, and training. Dhivael was given the cover of a mostly-Vulcan which would seem the first thing anyone would think of with a Romulan, especially given the fact that the Enterprise-D had run into a Romulan masquerading as a Vulcan. But it was carefully designed. The Tal'Shiar was prone to over thinking and overly complex plans, so her cover was the most obvious thing they could think of, expecting (correctly) that the Federation Intelligence Services would have its most junior agents running background on Vulcans. Even her persona's name was ironically picked (although not in isolation-- poor Rachel fit too many other categories) for a famous 20th century Terran spy who was caught. But the biggest advantage she had was timing. During the Dominion War it was clear that Starfleet would not be looking too closely at those who joined their ranks, and the Tal'Shiar was playing a long game, making sure they had valuable assets in the post-war period among all the major Alpha and Beta Quadrant powers.

Dhivael checked the time. She still had two hours before she was to meet the Excelsior's new doctor at the bar, and forty minutes before the new LCPO was to report to her. One of the more difficult parts of her assignment was having been assigned by Starfleet to the engineering division. She had taken some classes in theory, and had learned a lot over the years, but was not an exceptional engineer by any stretch. What Dhivael had brought with her was an incredible leadership ability and reorganized her department to act with peak efficiency. So far that had been enough to continue pushing her up the ranks. Federation technology, especially warp mechanics were so radically different from their Rihannha counterparts. And sadly she had no ch'Havranssu, but Federation engineers were nearly as diligent, if not as... pliable.
]]>
Sat, 04 Jan 2014 00:47:26 +0000
Aboard Diogara Station http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/15 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/15
‚ÄúBegin personal log, Lieutenant Commander Rachel Hanssen.

‚ÄúDiogara station is incredible. This is the first time I‚Äôve set foot on an immense-class station. They‚Äôre an amazing feat of engineering, and I got permission of the Station Chief of Operations to take a tour of her later today. Looking forward to that.

‚ÄúAfter that, I am meeting with the new departmental Leading Chief Petty Officer, who arrived with the Pheonix, and I need to review the personnel files, duty rosters, and reports from Ensign Adow. I‚Äôd like to reorganize the engineering department, and have some ideas about how I‚Äôll do that, but want to make sure I have the right people in the right roles. I‚Äôd like to have that report ready for the XO and CO by the time I report aboard.

‚ÄúI had the honor of meeting the new Chief Medical Officer. Unlike the last couple of assignments, she seems both smart and respectful. It seems that Starfleet does have a couple of doctors with decent bedside manners. I am looking forward to getting to know her better, and invited her out for a drink before we report aboard the Excelsior.

‚ÄúEnd Log.‚Äù
]]>
Mon, 16 Dec 2013 23:39:33 +0000
En Route http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/14 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/14
[En route, Earth to Utopia Planitia]

‚Ä®‚Ä®The fact that Hanssen had been planet-side for less than thirty minutes was irrelevent. Nor was that she still had not had time to process the reality of the promotion and transfer, despite the nice going away party the engineers has thrown her in the Halsey's officers lounge. The aging USS Bismarck was set to leave in under 20 minutes, and she had to get aboard.

Right now the first order of business for the newly minted Lieutenant Commander after arriving at command was making it to the Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards. She stepped aboard the transporter pad after the Lieutenant in front of her cleared, and nodded to the duty officer. The officers who were stationed here were never surprised to see officers of rank. Every day Admirals, famous Captains, Master Chiefs, and the greenest of ensigns beamed right on through without a second glance. They hardly even blinked at the sight of a mere Lieutenant Commander, even though today Rachel thought she was floating on top of the world.

Rachel nodded to the duty officer.¬†‚Ä®‚Ä®"Energize."‚Ä®‚Ä®The strange tingling of the transporter beam took her, whisking her across the vast nothingness, bouncing off relays on the moon and in orbit of Mars before depositing her in a similar looking room.‚Ä®‚Ä®

[En route, USS Bismarck]

The shape of the Explorer-class cruiser's transporter room materialized in front of Commander Hanssen. Rachel looked at the pair that were responsible for her successful re-materialization.¬†‚Ä®‚Ä®

"Thank you," She offered, "Permission to come aboard, sir?" ‚Ä®‚Ä®"Permission granted, sir." the elder of the two smiled her way. "First one today to actually say thank you. You're very welcome, Commander."‚Ä®‚Ä® Rachel couldn't help but allow a smile to that, as she swung her bag back over her shoulder and consulted the schematics of the ship.

A startled looking human crewman raced into the room. "Commander, welcome aboard. The XO sends his regrets, but hopes that the two of you will be able to meet in the few days that it will take us to get to Diogara Station. Please allow me to show you to visitor's quarters."

Commander Hanssen nodded. "Lead on, crewman."

]]>
Sat, 14 Dec 2013 23:09:26 +0000
The Captain's Shadow http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/13 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/13
Visitors packed shoulder to shoulder to pay their respects to a heroine. Despite many in attendance never meeting her, Captain Cerise Duvall had directly or indirectly affected the lives of all. She first came to celebrity when she nearly sacrificed herself to save 30 members of her crew as the First Officer of the USS Lexington in 2267. As the Klingon War came to a head in the 2270's prior to Khitomer, Duvall was a pivotal figure in several key battles in her role as Captain of the USS Virginia. In exploration, her crew's discoveries and first contacts‚Äîparticularly that of the Betazoids‚Äîput her in the pantheon of Starfleet's greatest of the era: Garth, Decker, Kirk, Wesley, Spock, Duvall. She became the most decorated woman in the fleet‚Äîa record that stood for nearly 60 years. With an illustrious career behind her, at the age of 45, she set her sights on family life and stayed out of the limelight. She married, had several children, and in her later years wrote a book, which quickly became required reading at the Academy in certain programs of study.

Her state funeral proved that her deeds nearly a century ago had not been forgotten. Several ex-presidents of the Federation and top-ranking admiralty made appearances, and it was a vibrant, though mournful celebration of a life well-lived. Her immediate family was given royal treatment, particularly her youngest great-grandchild and partial namesake, Ameli√© Cerise DuBois. At the tender age of 18, she was the very likeness of Duvall at that age, only without the fire in her eyes. In fact, aside from her appearance, Ameli√© didn't seem to have anything in common with her ancestor. She was timid, weak, and unambitious. Ameli√© was a mystery to everyone. To anyone who simply observed her, she was just a shy little girl, but to anyone who was familiar with her relation to the famous Captain, she was a wellspring of untapped potential. As the presidents and admirals paid their respects to the family, Amy was nearly universally encouraged to follow her ancestor's footsteps.

She didn't pay any attention to them.

Ameli√© wanted nothing to do with space travel, exploration, ships, phasers, diplomacy, or anything a Starfleet Officer dealt with. All she wanted to be was a happy secretary in some easy-going company. Her personal goals were set low: make ends meet until she could find a nice guy, get married, and become a homemaker. It wasn't until her only real friend, her older brother Fran√ßois, mentioned Starfleet's free education and pension a year later that she started to change her mind. She imagined a world where she could be assertive, go to school, make friends, and create a life for herself. Giving into the peer pressure, Ameli√© enlisted, and as soon as she signed her life away, she regretted it. the young woman was thrown into boot camp, yelled at, forced into a nearly impossible exercise regimen, fed nutritional slop, was given a pat on the back and a 3 week course on being a Yeoman, and the next thing she knew, she was in space on the USS Excelsior-C as Commander Gardner's Yeoman waiting for her contractual obligation to Starfleet to end in 6 years. In 4 short months, Ameli√© DuBois went from living in a Captain's shadow to being a Captain's shadow.

Ameli√© had grown up hearing about the Excelsior's predecessors. Captain Sulu was one of her great-grandmother's rivals after the Klingon War. The starships Virginia and Excelsior had a bitter rivalry right up to the time the Virginia-B and Excelsior-B were destroyed in the Dominion War. She didn't know exactly, but Ameli√© was pretty sure the Commander who gave her the assignment was an old Excelsior-B veteran himself and was trying to convert Captain Duvall's great-granddaughter to his team. Since there were no current plans to continue the Virginia line of starships, his victory was very small.

If DuBois learned anything from her ordeal, it was not to give in to peer pressure anymore. After being forced to endure no end of humiliation the last time, there was no way she would allow the likes of Commander Gardner to convince her to become a career officer like her great-grandmother. Ameli√© was making her own decisions from now on, and if she had anything to say about it, she'd never become an Ensign, let alone a Captain.]]>
Sat, 14 Dec 2013 03:28:30 +0000
A New Personal Log. http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/12 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/12
"Begin personal log, Lieutenant Commander Rachel Hanssen."

She paused, trying to plan her next words. The reality of the promotion and transfer hadn't event quite set in. When the Admiral had stopped by her quarters aboard the William F Halsey, Rachel had been sure that she was being discharged from the service for something or another, or demoted for the way she had yelled at a young engineer's mate third class earlier in the day. Instead the news had been a promotion to a brand new ship.¬†‚Ä®‚Ä®"Sometimes even Command gets things right..." the Admiral had said.

"I am having very mixed emotions about leaving the Halsey.‚Ä®‚Ä® But to have my own engine room aboard a Sovereign Class... that will be a real honor. This third pip means so much less to me than the prospect of being out exploring the stars. That's the real difference, I suppose. The Halsey is a warship, but the Excelsior represents the mission of Starfleet. Dealing with the unknown.

"As I've been recording this, I received a short note of congratulations from Commander LaForge of the Enterprise. Apparently he likes to throw down the gauntlet with every Sovereign-Class chief engineer in the fleet, and see who can maintain the highest efficiency rating. Well, all I have to say, is that Mr. LaForge had better watch out."

Hanssen smiled to herself at that. She knew that she wouldn't be able to best him, but trying was half the fun, and together with the Chief Engineer of the Halsey had been experimenting with the overpowered drive that the Ronin-Class had been designed around. Maybe some of those ideas could be modified to the Sovereign-class.

"End Log."]]>
Fri, 13 Dec 2013 23:01:30 +0000
Earning Respect http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/11 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/11
"Personal log. I've only been aboard the Excelsior a short time...and boy did I make a bad first impression. Got lost heading for the Shuttle bay, literately feel into a runabout... not the way I wanted this assignment to start."

"Since returning from the mission, which wasn't a cake walk by any means, I've been familiarizing myself with the ship's layout, her Senior Staff, the Captain, and the current mission. It's a big one, but I need to earn my shipmates' trust and respect."

"Time to get into the zone."

"End log."]]>
Sat, 10 Aug 2013 06:34:33 +0100
Time's Up http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/6 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/6
I haven't made any Personal Logs since this mission began. I guess I've been scared to. I ask myself why...I look back I realise that coming back here, facing Lannie....knowing that potentially Angharad could be dead.....deep down it scared me. But I was taught to ignore it and fight through it. And thats what I did.

I know Angharad would hate to think I'd got soft *a small laugh is heard* but the truth is, I'll be be glad to return to my old job. Angharad deserved the promotion. I just want my old job back. But being the Excelsior's Commanding Officer has been amazing. The crew have performed admirably, despite being us being thrust together. And I've even made some friends. Its going to be hard to say goodbye....but I guess it is time.

If they assign me to the station, great. If not, I may take early retirement. I don't want to be far from here.

I look back and realize the fool I was, living for the next mission. Well I guess this is it.

End Log]]>
Wed, 03 Jul 2013 20:29:37 +0100
Fresh Start http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/10 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/10
Lieutenant Commander Thrall worked diligently on her personal PADD, writing a long message. When she was satisfied with its contents, she prompted the computer. "Computer, begin recording."

There was a beep, indicating that she was now on the record. She read aloud from her PADD in a soft but confident voice.

"Tox rithal, terau kras-tor, cloudy light, ae'r bed aoi. Melifa Thrall, 7374108077. As you listen to the sound of my voice, relax your muscles. Focus on my voice and let yourself ignore the other thoughts. It's alright to let them go. I would like to talk to your subconscious. As you listen to the sound of my voice, relax your muscles. Focus on my voice and let yourself ignore the other thoughts. It's alright to let them go. I would like to talk to your subconscious."

"Imagine that all of the secrets you possess are laid out on a table in front of you. You can see them all clearly, but I know you don't want anyone else to see them. If you look down with your mind's eye, you see a locket around your neck. For now, when you open it, it is empty. When your secrets are in that locket, nobody can see them. You can't see them unless you open the locket. You know that you need your secrets, but in order to keep them safe, you need to hide them. Pick up all of the secrets on the table and put them in the locket. There are a lot of them, but it won't take longer than a minute or two."

"Computer, insert four minutes of silence," Thrall commanded, and the computer chirped twice in acknowledgement. She immediately continued in her calm yet authoritative tone.

"As you look into your locket, you can see all of your secrets as plainly as you saw them laid out on the table, but you know that you are the only person who can see them. You must be very careful so that others cannot see them through your eyes. When you open your locket, you must ensure that you do not show its contents to anybody. You know that you must never open your locket unless you are in a situation that demands it, and above all, you must never allow someone else to open it or take it from you. I would like you to close your locket now, Melifa. When your locket is closed, you can't see your secrets anymore, but that's alright. You don't even remember you're hiding any secrets, and it feels so good not to worry about it. You're Lieutenant Commander Melifa Thrall, First Officer and Chief Counselor on the U.S.S. Excelsior. You have to keep secrets as part of your job. You must maintain your patients' confidentiality, and you must protect the ship and the integrity of Starfleet's command protocols, but you won't have any trouble keeping them. You're excellent at keeping secrets from people who shouldn't know them."

"Now, I'm going to count from one to five, and then I'll say, 'Fully awake.' At the count of five, your eyes are open, and you are then completely aware, feeling rested, revived, relaxed.
One: slowly, gently, and effortlessly, you are returning to your full awareness once more.
Two: each and every muscle in your body is loose and relaxed, and you feel remarkably good.
Three: from head to toe, you are feeling perfect in every way. Physically perfect, mentally perfect, emotionally calm.
Four: your eyes start to feel clear. On the next number I count, eyelids open, completely aware, feeling calm, rested, invigorated, energized, full of energy.
Five: You're fully awake and aware now. Eyelids open. Take a good, deep breath, and stretch. Good."

When Thrall was done dictating, she reformatted her PADD so that there was no trace of the script. Then she laid down on the sofa in her office with her hands at her sides and her head back in a comfortable position.
"Computer, play back and delete recording when finished."

There was a beep and a short delay before the Betazoid heard the sound of her own voice speaking her multilingual, nonsensical, and trance-inducing code phrase.

"Tox rithal, terau kras-tor, cloudy light, ae'r bed aoi..."]]>
Tue, 02 Jul 2013 01:22:23 +0100
The Old & The New - MD4 2214 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/9 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/9
Personal Log,

Well that was an eventful day! I went and introduced myself and shipmates to the Starbase Construction Team CO and once they learnt that they have four accomplished engineers wondering around the starbase with very little to do they asked if we would mind lending a hand until the Excelsior returns.

With not much call for Arin's specific focus of engineering skills, she has been doing anything from installing consoles and connecting them to the power grid and data network, to installing internal sensor clusters etc, tomorrow will see her helping install emergency systems in the last few sections of the base to be built.

T'Kareq has been helping the Structural Engineers team, his skills being put to better use than Arin's, T'Kareq is doing more of the same tomorrow.

Buzz was working on the Starfleet Holodeck & Hololab Computer systems however a certain Ferengi holosuite owner heard about Buzz's skills and the fact that he was not regular personnel and he some how manage to coerce Buzz into installing his holosuite computers, tomorrow he starts work on the holosuite emitters. I will have to find out what it was the Ferengi offered him, so far he has been very quiet about the subject and has ignored or diverted conversation away from the subject.

I on the other hand have been helping to finely tune the stations last few main, auxiliary and emergency fusion reactor plants. This is in preparation for tomorrow when the station goes completely autonomous with all it's systems and looses the umbilicals from the construction yard generators. Tomorrow will see me partaking in final adjustments and checks of a more sinister system, that being the station's auto-destruct system. I hope it will never be used for real as it will make one hell of a bang!

We all met up again later in the day, for dinner at a Bajoran Restaurant. I quite like Bajoran food, Buzz will take it or leave and of course Arin loves it, however T'Kareq supposedly does not like Bajoran food and this gave him one more thing to grumble about. That being said for someone who doesn't like Bajoran food he ate twice as much as the rest of us, to which he replied when questioned about this "Well a warrior has to eat!". Arin then said to him, "So, it's only your Vulcan half that will get fat then?" So before it started another argument, I told T'Kareq it was his round so he could stew to himself at the bar for a bit.

I honestly think that the pair of them actually really like each other, they are just too proud to admit it. Perhaps one day they will both "Grow Up" and admit it to each other, we will see.

Well I'm turning in aboard the Astute, we were offered guest quarters aboard the station but whilst the Astute is in limbo between homes I'd rather not leave her unattended, the others are in guest quarters though. Besides it is only for one or two more nights I am happy enough here, peace and quiet with out the need of a audio dampening field!

Scott Charleston signing off.]]>
Fri, 28 Jun 2013 16:08:02 +0100
The Old & The New - MD4 0610 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/8 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/8
Personal Log.

Well the Alarm went off at 0600 and I'm up and dressed having been in the sonic shower and gotten a fresh set of uniform on and looking forward to experiencing the Transwarp Gate Jump today.

Last night was the best sleep I've had for a couple weeks albeit in a cramped bunk, I think it is partly owed to the fact that I was extremely worn out and I had the audio dampening field on.

Apparently T'Kareq and Arin have already kissed and made up! Arin beeped me whilst I was getting ready this morning to firstly tell me that T'Kareq has repaired and given her her PADD back and now it has a micro holo-emitter on it so she can see schematics in three dimensions. She tells me she is very chuffed with and that "Buzz" helped T'Kareq fit the holo-emitter.

She in return has hand cooked a traditional Bajoran Breakfast for everyone so I'm looking forward to it.

That's all for now.

Scott Charleston signing off

---------

MD4 0832

Well the Transwarp Gate is certainly an amazing piece of technology I expected the journey to take a few minutes but in all reality it took literally only a few seconds. Before leaving Starbase 900 I asked for what technical data they could give me about the Transwarp Gate so I can get a clearing understanding of how it works. They have obliged and I intend on reading it this evening.

We are now docked at the almost complete Immense Class Starbase in the Diogara system. I am just making the last post shutdown checks on the Astute and I will be joining my three shipmates to take in the sites around this new space station. It being not quite complete yet I am pretty certain that I will find some way or another to get my hands dirty and help with finishing it before it is brought online as a fully autonomous facility.

Apparently the Excelsior is due in either tomorrow or the day after, they are currently dealing with a "Situation" that they are not prepared to discuss over comms but will do in person once they arrive back at Diogara Station. There are some details with the ongoing situation which I need to be briefed on.

Right final post shutdown checks complete, activating security measures and thats me done for now.

Scott Charleston Signing Off.

]]>
Wed, 26 Jun 2013 20:18:59 +0100
The Old & The New - MD3 1336 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/7 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/7
Personal Log,

I have just departed the QSD complex in the Astute, with a course set for Starbase 900 to make my first journey through a Starfleet built Transwarp gate, once we are past the Jupiter orbit markers we can jump to warp. Unfortunately due to the classified nature of the small QS Drive onboard the Astute I am not allowed to use it yet outside of the testing grounds, until my future shipmates are granted security clearance, so for all intents and purposes this is a prototype test-bed for a new class of vessel and many new systems, none of which have nothing to do with "QSD".

Speaking of the Astute, she is running at optimal efficiency in all respects and she now has the latest operating system installed in her QS computer. Thanks to a last minute finalisation by the software team at the QSD complex. The latest Nav Deflector Quantum Field handling algorithms are installed in the main computer core as well. These new algorithms allow for more efficient control between the QS computer and the Nav Deflector. This allows the vessel to jump to QS speed faster and more importantly, a damn sight smoother, no longer is it the roller coaster ride it was when voyager first experimented with QSD.

The Astute had a complete systems shakedown test this morning and passed with flying colours.

There are only two other operational prototypes, the Ambush and Artful, there is a third, the Audacious but she is still being built. So you can imagine it took some wrangling with Commodore this morning to let me take her but eventually he gave in. Luckily he just about managed in time for my departure, to cut through the red tape, with the pretense that the Astute will be on a "Fleet Integration Field Test". So every week I will have to send back performance reports about the Astute.

For the moment the Astute and anything inherently related to it is to be referred to as the "A-Class Super Runabout Project".

Anyway duty calls I must finalise some of my reports from my last draft at QSD.

Scott Charleston signing off.

---------

MD3 1632

Personal Log Supplemental.

I have brought a trio of passengers with me. They are acquaintances, no friends, well they are most of the time, that is, when they are not arguing. They too are former members of my old QSD team like me. Bringing them along with me seemed like a good idea at the time but now I am unsure. Two of the three are arguing about some discrepancies with each others ideas about some new modifications they would like to put forward for consideration when we arrive onboard the Excelsior. The other is snoring so loudly in the bunk compartment that I can hear him from the cockpit.

Note to self, as soon as I get a few free hours the next modification for the Astute is better soundproofing and maybe even audio dampeners in each compartment.

The main reason I've brought them with me is to keep some familiar faces around me in a new environment and to augment the Excelsior's engineering team with some QSD boffins. This will become a boon in the future, as in the long run we will be attempting to retrofit the Excelsior with QSD. I personally think the Commodore was fed up with the three of them and sent them on their way with me to be shot of them and as a penance to me for taking one of his prototype craft, I guess I can't have my cake and eat it after all.

So I better list who they are I suppose. Computer add the following details and transmit immediately to the Excelsior via Starbase 900's Transwarp Gate Signal Relay Antenna, advising them of the additional personnel transfers.

Lieutenant J.G, Aldrin, James, Arthur, "Buzz", Human, Male, Age 31, Computer Systems Specialist & Holographic Systems Specialist.

Ensign, T'Kareq, Son of B'Mok, Klingon/Vulcan Hybrid, Aggressive little sod certainly did not take to his Vulcan heritage as much as his Klingon side. Hmm that wont do, the new Skipper will think I bringing a bunch of psychopaths onboard which isn't far from the truth I guess... Computer delete Ensign T'Kareqs entry and start again.

Ensign T'Kareq, Son of B'Mok Klingon/Vulcan Hybrid, Male, Age 22, Structural Integrity & Materials Engineer.

Lastly.

Lieutenant J.G., Sul, Arin, Bajoran, Female, Age 24, Warp Coil & Subspace Field Geometry Specialist.

Encode and Transmit.

Now then for the unofficial record "Buzz" is the snorer and the other two are the mentalists intent on killing each other over various engineering theories.

I get on with "Buzz" the best as he is the most mature of the three and he too has little time for the other two when they argue. Speaking of "Buzz" I guess he is the pessimist of the group, I suppose we need one to balance out my optimism. For example "Buzz" didn't believe me a few years ago when I said not only could the QSD project make QS a safe possibility for the majority of all current Starfleet vessels but I also theorised that we could make it possible with something as small as a shuttle. I still don't know to this day why "Buzz" joined the QSD team if he was so pessimistic about it.

Anyway we aren't quite there with a working shuttle sized QSD yet but the Astute is the next best thing. Two, albeit slightly cramped decks of ridiculously over powered runabout, however we made certain the cockpit was comfy. Very similar in design to the Delta flyer but not quite the same and it most certainly does not posses those eccentric controls of Tom Paris's blast from the past. She will just squeeze into the Secondary shuttle bay on Sovereign class vessels, this being the class it was originally designed in mind for.

This runabout has been my "hobby" outside of the office as it were and hopefully Commander Gardener wont mind her cluttering up his secondary shuttle bay. I'm sure he wont have any issues with it once he see's the potential of the craft and what it can achieve. I have already forwarded a communique with what this little gem is "officially" capable of so hopefully I have piqued his interest to give him the "Unofficial" tour once we arrive. He is the only member of the Excelsior's compliment of crew that can be told about almost all of the Astute's abilities.

If he isn't interested which I highly doubt given his background, I know the Green Beret contingent onboard will more than be interested in her, certainly from a assault landing craft point of view; it far out performs any other current equivalent and it is ideal for long range covert tactical missions. Especially with the few extra gizmo's onboard which shall remain unnamed for fear of breaching secrecy regulations. A few select personnel onboard the Excelsior will have to be informed once correct security clearance is granted but until certain technologies are de-classified the true potential of this, "Super-Runabout" as Starfleet Command like to refer to it, will have to remain known only to very few.

*A loud clattering noise from an aft compartment and a muffled growl followed by muffled shriek can be heard of the recording, followed by a large huffing exhalation from Charleston*

Sorry, got to go and see what the children are up to.

Scott Charleston signing off.

---------

MD3 1801

Personal Log Supplemental.

So what was the noise back aft you ask? Well I'll tell you. As I walked into the starboard sleeping compartment amidships I find T'Kareq seething with spittle down either side of his mouth standing over a prone Sul, Arin who was holding a large schematic PADD in front of her chest with T'Kareq's D'k Tahg lodged in the middle of it.

I immediately ordered T'Kareq to the aft crew compartment, which doubles as a communal mess deck, conference room and in emergencies a small triage bay, there to wait for me whilst I sorted the situation and spoke to Arin first.

I helped a clearly shaken Arin to her feet and ordered her remove her items from the starboard sleeping compartment and take them into the port where she will bunk until we join the Excelsior. I also ordered her clear my items from the port compartment and bring them into the starboard section. Her two punishments were as follows; she had to share the compartment with "Buzz" and his snoring and two she had to write a hand written account of what happened between her and T'Kareq and hand it to me within the hour. Then she was confined to her Sleeping compartment until breakfast.

I then asked "Buzz" to take over in the cockpit whilst I went aft to sort out T'Kareq. I walked into the Mess Deck to find that he had managed to calm himself enough to talk to me. He remained at the Aft window the whole time stood to attention whilst we spoke.

It turns out that during their "heated debate" as T'Kareq called it, understatement of the century I would say, Arin quite crudely insulted T'Kareqs mother's heritage.

My lesson of the day never insult a Klingon Vulcan Hybrid's Mother.

So I ordered him to fold away the table into its floor recess and put on the Holo-Visor and spend an hour on one of his Calisthenics programs to get rid of his pent up aggression followed by an hours meditation. His punishment was to have Arin's schematic PADD fixed only using replicator for creating new components the rest had to be done by hand and completed by breakfast.

Both are currently busy with their tasks, I in the meantime replicated my one of my favourite meals, a proper, traditional, Cornish Pastie. The replicator pattern is taken directly from one of my own hand made pasties and it was divine if I say so myself.

Just as I finished my meal Arin came in and handed me the paper report I read it and then told her to rip it up and put it in the replicator for recycling. She looked at me stunned, to which I said. If the two of you are going to act like children then I will treat you both like children. I then told her that the pair of them can consider themselves in the dog house until i decide otherwise. Luckily for for them I decided not to give them an official reprimand for behaviour unbecoming of Starfleet personnel, as our new Commanding Officer would read it and it would be a total embarrassment for me let alone them.

I believe I will sit and read some of the latest Technical Papers released this week now.

Scott Charleston signing off.

---------

MD3 2059

Personal Log Supplemental

My Final log entry for today, I am now turning in early as we are scheduled to enter the Transwarp Gate at 0800 tomorrow and I have had no sleep since yesterday. What sleep I got the day before was disturbed with worry about upsetting the Commodore and last night I couldn't sleep as I was to excited, like a child waiting for Christmas morning. There's me telling T'Kareq and Arin off for behaving like children I no better myself.

I am currently bathing in silence in my bunk I have set my tricorder to emit a audio dampening field around my bunk so I cant hear "Buzz's" snoring next door or T'Kareq fumbling around with Arin's PADD or his chuntering to himself. It is pure bliss.

So, much to my relief the Commodore sent me off this morning with his blessing and he asked me a small favour to myself as well. He said, "Next time you're worrying about something, do something about immediately instead of letting it gnaw at you, I don't want to hear of anymore stupidly embarrassing incidents Mr Charleston! Oh and bloody well look after your "pet" the Astute."

I've taken what he said to heart and imprinted it in my memory so that I will do both of the things he asked.

Finally I am relaxed enough to get some sleep and I've settled down although I have to admit I have got some butterflies in my stomach still in anticipation of the new job and the possibility of becoming an XO, we will see how it turns out.

Also I need to make T'Kareq and Arin kiss and make up in the morning.

*Yawns*

Sorry, excuse me I'm worn out, Goodnight.

Scott Charleston signing off.

Computer save and close today's personnel log.]]>
Wed, 26 Jun 2013 02:09:46 +0100
Getting settled in. http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/5 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/5
It feels a bit weird to have my own quarters. So used to having my parents around, and at the Academy I was in a shared dorm room, so I wasn't really alone then either. Speaking of mom and dad, they sent me some family holos. Still I miss them.

Cuddles has already spent some time exploring our new room. Got him his own little bed, but he seems to prefer curling up to sleep on my pillows. While his kitten mind is so different, making it close to impossible to read it, I have been able to pick up on his feelings. Feelings of happiness for the most part, sometimes so strong they surprise me. I think he views me as family now, even though I lack fur and paws. I admit, I have a strong interest in the relationships of animals and the people they choose to bond with. Much has been written about such bonds, but always solely from the person's view. It makes me wonder how strongly such feelings of love and family are reciprocated by the animals in question. Fortunately I may be in a position to find out, at least when it comes to myself and Cuddles.

I'm starting to get sleepy. Had a long day with getting to my new assignment on the Excelsior and getting settled in. Think I'll head to bed a little early. Want to be well rested for the department meeting in the morning. The moment I stand up from my chair, Cuddles runs over ready to follow me around. Well come on, little ball of fluff, time to get some sleep.]]>
Mon, 11 Mar 2013 21:09:37 +0000
Deep seated issues http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/3 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/3
The floral shower of blossoms fell down on the standing guests as they stood to watch her, the red carpet, bisecting the group, like a phaser beam of love, pointed at the desire of her heart. He smile at her as she walked towards him, her left arm crooked in that of her father's right arm.

"You look so beautiful, honey. I am so proud of you. I love you."

" I love you daddy."

He deposited her in front of the dais, her love looking at her with a school boy grin. She smile back demurely, but inside she was as happy as she had been in 5 life times.

The 'ahem' of the officiator drew their attention to him.

"I am pleased to stand before you all to join together these two young people, who wish to combine their experiences and knowledge, bound by their mutual love and respect, to share lifes pleasures and difficulties. And as they grow together, and the arrival of new loved ones, yea, even children, they will know true happiness and unity in the mutual efforts to raise their children in the path of knowledge, experience and love, thus perpetating the cycle of life, which starts here today before us all.

By the power invested in me by the Federation, and Starfleet I know present to you Alecz Lorhrok and Shria Hst. You may know kiss each other."

As she reached up to kiss her beloved she placed her hand on his bare chest, and realized he was naked, and then she realized she was too, then looked around at everyone in the wedding party, and the guests. *Betazoid wedding customs?*

Just then, the rumbling started, low at first, then increasing in noise and intensity. The accompanying wind started as a slight breeze and increased to a sustained gust, then a full blown gale. The bright light of the sky darkened as the cloud above the now cowering party, huddling onto each other in fear and confusion looked up. The cloud resolved into the outline of a starship. A Sovereign class, the name can be made out on the bottom of the primary hull, USS Excelsior.

The light/hum/disorienting feeling of the transporter grips her. She sees her grip on Alecz disappear. The world slows down ever so briefly. The laughing figure of a green woman points at her mockingly and sidles up beside Alecz, who takes her in a loving embrace, and joins her laughter. Neeva, his one true love, always had been. The stern looking Asian woman comes out behind the Orion woman, and joins in the scorn. Yubari, last acting captain of the Excelsior before the end of her current missions. A tall, brunet woman comes out behind her and twiddles her fingers. *B bye, Good riddance* Shria hears in a telepathic voice in her head.

The world disappears around her, as she...Awakes in her childhood room of her family home on Mars. #Girl, you have some unresolved issues# she thinks as she awakes from her dream.]]>
Tue, 26 Feb 2013 23:30:21 +0000
Personal Log - SD 90841.7 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/2 http://ussexcelsior.net/index.php/sim/viewlog/2
Everything seems so new; I'm not just talking about the ship, but the joining as well.

I thought after my second host that it would get easier, but it never seems to. I'm sure I'll adjust easily, but I don't know how well others will adjust.

Settling in nicely on the new ship; haven't been up to the bridge yet. I wanted to give Peter...Commander Gardner...a chance to settle in first.

[END LOG]]]>
Sat, 23 Feb 2013 10:10:11 +0000
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