The TML PBeM

1992, Turn 3 - Part 4 (of 11)

Alcyon Armory

Azani shudders at the thought of a ruptured hull. "I wonder what it's like outside in grey space, not like we would survive if a stray rocket or FGMP blast hit the hull though, just curious."

"Anyway," Azani says, "I'll fit you for Combat Armor while we wait. The Alcyon has a selection of part sizes. It's a little heavy, but at least you don't need any more training to use it than you would for a vacc suit." He starts to measure Rigo's limbs, taking care not to obstruct Rigo's view of the monitor and making notes on a datapad. "Of course, you need a lot of practice to get into it in a hurry... that's why we aren't bothering right now...."

Azani mumbles to himself about "Lions, tigers and warbots, oh my!"

"Aw, put a SOCK in it, Azani," Mahlel grouses. "This is turning out to be one major shitter of a day without background music to boot. First I end up doing surgery on an Ale-Yale who's bleeding all over the damn deck, then His Holiness the CMO chews me out for saving the damn bird's LIFE and tosses me outa Sickbay on my EAR, THEN I get confined ta QUARTERS, and THEN I gotta go police up a half ton of BEDROCK in the damn JDRIVE ROOM, and NOW I'm on BATTLEDRESS DUTY....."

While Azani measures Rigo for later fitting of Combat Armor and Mahlel gets suited up, Rigo looks through the weapons lists to see what weapons capable of making an impression on a warbot the Alcyon carries. As the battledressed Mahlel enters the main compartment of the Armory and Azani sets the list of measurements aside for later, Rigo looks up from the manifest with a worried look on his face.

"I really, really hope Dr. Van der Merwe is right about his flying friend and that there will be no trouble with that warbot, because if we have to tangle with it, we're going to be neck deep in _fragi_ droppings. The only useful weapons we have is a PGMP-15 and six Assault Rocket Launcers. If we fire either one inside the Alcyon, we could rupture a bulkhead. And with umpteen tons of liquid hydrogen on the other side, that's one thing I'd as soon avoid. You'll have to make absolutely sure that the robot is between you and an _inside_ bulkhead if you fire at it. Understood?"

"Who tha' hell said anything about FIRING at the fuckin' thing, Rigo?" O'Shi makes a fist with the Battle Dress. "That's a standard Scout Orgasm Suck Face Four-- it's tough, but not THAT tough. It can't shoot at us with most of ITS heavy weapons, and our best bet may be to beat it ta death with the Battle Dress." He flexes a bicep.

"Shut up and listen, Mahlel! I don't give a damn about what you _think_ that thing can or cannot do, you don't know how it's been modified. And it's been programmed by an alien whose thought patterns we don't know all that much about. For all you know he's got "death before confinement" carved on his heart. You may have to take out that 'bot _fast_. And if you do, you make damn sure about where you're pointing your weapon, _is_ _that_ _clear_?"

"With all due respect, O Mighty One Who Has Just Named Himself My Conscience, What you don't know about warbots and Battle Dress could fill a book. If I were as crufty as you seem ta think I am, I'd 'uv died YEARS ago."

"Right," Rigo snorts. "Is either of you qualified on PGMPs and/or ARLs? We'd better check that the weapons are in working order -- as far as we can without firing them, that is!"

"The fusion gun works," Mahlel snarls. "Just ask 'Vouf!"

"It worked then, Mahlel. Since we've got the time, we now check that it still works. Here, Azani, you'd better take the fuser. And, Mahlel, the name is Mr. Edmondsen, or, as things are so informal here on the Alcyon, just Edmondsen. Rigo is what my friens call me when I'm off duty."

"I'LL take the FGMP, MISTER Edmondsen," Mahlel snaps. "If you'd 'uv bothered ta read the personnel records before issuin' orders, you'd'a'seen that Jordan's best qualified on slug throwin' squad support weapons an' I'M the one with the High Energy training. Nobody else on this squad's ever even FIRED an FGMP before."

Mahlel frowns at a bad memory. "Not even Abdul. The Major let him use it on Leadfoot against my better judgement, and HIS only qualification was raging horny pyromania. If anyone'd bothered ta ask me instead o' lettin' him do what he wanted, the engine room might still be in one piece."

"As for weapons," Azani says, seemingly oblivious to the verbal lightning bolts being hurled past his head, "most of my weapons experiences were with assault rifles and lazer weapons and light support weapons, machineguns, that kind of thing. What have we got?" Azani then tries to follow and look over Rigo's shoulder at the weapons on locked-up display.

"Here you go, stud," Mahlel says, handing an ARL to Azani. "Assault Rocket Launcher, standard Imperial issue. It ain't a VRF Gauss Gun, but it'll do."

Azani takes hold of the ARL. He then inspects it, caresses it lovingly, looks it up and down and says one word. "Groovy..."

Azani hands the FGMP to Mahlel. "Here ya go sport, one FGMP ready to rock and roll."

"PATER, record a memo for Major Lazer and notify him of it's existence as soon as possible without interrupting the meeting. Begin memo. "Major, tangling with warbot could be hazardous to health for more than the obvious reasons. Anything that can affect it can also affect bulkheads. Suggest that if you've _any_ reservations about Dr. Unpronouncable then you make it top priority to get that warbot secured. End memo."

Lazer's reply isn't long in coming.

::ABSOLUTELY. I left Mahlel suited up as last resort. VDM seems to understand Treweerel, so it seems likely we can wrap this up rationally. But can't relax completely until the 'bot is safed, understand.::

"Ya might mention that having its safeties engaged would be most appreciated before we starts ta do the securin'."

"Or better yet, disassembled and packed in a crate, right?" Rigo says sarcastically. "Don't try to teach a gobbler to swallow flies."

One armored finger pokes Rigo HARD in the breastbone. "You listen ta ME, buttbrain," O'Shi grits. "Psionic or NO psionic, I did NOT stitch that damn Ale-Yale up just ta get him shot ta pieces again. When we 'secure' that 'bot, I mean we SECURE it, not go in with guns blasting! If it's on 'safe' and it comes quietly, I'll be MORE than happy. If you think that chargin' in with a Fuison Gun is tha' way ta handle this, maybe YOU shoulda bin the one caught in Abdul's crossfire 'steada 'Vouf when we took Leadfoot out. Gettin' yer carcass cooked teaches ya respect fer Fusers. Capeesh?"

Admiral Ger walks into the conference room at 0443. He is as he normally looks with the Darrian navy duty uniform/vacc suit (see below) but the TacHUD is not on. Ger is also carrying a portable computer.

Ger nods to those here, and sits at the head of the table, opens up the computer and plugs it in to the ship network. With this done he sits back in the chair and relaxes for a moment.

[To the Aslan] "I am sure that my officers will be here in a few minutes. would you care for any refreshements? And how would you like to be introduced, I am still unaware of your executive officer's rank."

Etienne nods to those on the bridge {Zben and Witfield} but doesn't look interested in conversation as he heads for the pilot's station. Still holding the drink in one hand Etienne sits and taps a couple of buttons on the arm of his chair then waits until the seat has reconfigued itself to his liking. He proceeds to do the same for his displays and controls. He starts cycling through all the ship's data, not doing anything, really, just checking up on the Alcyon. Only when he reaches the sensor status does he sit up and move more purposefully. Glancing over at Mac he says "Mr. Witfield, would you please lock all active sensors. I don't think we should risk another EM burst." Once he sees that taken care of he returns to wandering through the displays.

"Aye, that indeed is a good idea." Witfield locks the active sensors, and set it up to report to him if the active sensors are activated.

Although he appears not to be paying any attention to the rest of the bridge, when the request comes through for a pilot Etienne motions to Zben. "If he can wait until after the meeting, I'll handle it. If not tell him to get Mr. Grey to do it. If there are any problems let me know." At about 0445 Etienne closes down his station, rises and heads aft. Just before he reaches the passageway the calls come in from the Westwind and GA.

"I've got our papers and there's so let's go." says Nichole

"Wait a bit. I have to call the Alcyon and ask permission to come aboard first." says Aurelia while opening a comm channel.

Zben is sitting at a (for the moment) quiet Commo console, when:

"Westwind to Alcyon. Ok, we've docked and we've got our contracts ready. What do you want us to do now?"

"Roger, Westwind. Stand by while I get instructions."

He starts to send a message to the commander, when:

"Jump Tender Alcyon this is the Diplomatic Courier Gemini Arbiter. Request permission for two to come aboard. Would also like to meet with your captain. Over."

"Gemini Arbiter, this is Alycon Commo. Please stand by: I'm processing your request now."

Muttering under his breath, "...everybody's in rush and we're not GOING anywhere..." then to the computer "Pater, is the Commander accessing a computer at the moment?" [PlayerNote: I seem to remember that he is] Receiving an affirmative, he routes a priority message to Ger: "Sir. I have requests for boarding from Westwind and Arbiter. Shall I request they wait for an escort, and ask security to meet them? Blaine."

Etienne flashes a grin at Zben just as the iris valve closes behind him. Finishing his drink in one last gulp Etienne tosses the container into the nearest refuse bin and heads for the conference room.

Lazer leaves the armoury, heading for the grav-lift in the mess. Staff meeting in ten minutes, and he wasn't looking forward to it. The time since docking had been too hectic to permit much thinking, and he needed to do a little before facing Ger again.

He dropped down a deck, and made his way to his cabin. First thing is to freshen up a bit. Among other things, we have guests to greet. Now why was Akhouw invited to this meeting? Surely Ger doesn't want this aired in public?

Hmm. Meeting the Aslan...

<< Rigo, this is Lazer. How do you say, 'Greetings', in Trokh? >>

Though there isn't really much point in trying to make a good impression if I'm about to be accused of mutiny. Lazer's lip curls up. Drawing a pistol on the bridge. Just what the HELL were you thinking? You've seen better men than Bishop die--so why did that affect you so much?

He palms the lock on the cabin, and steps past the opening door. He shucks his loose shirt with one quick motion, and peels down the torso half of his vaccsuit. He stops thought for a couple minutes in washing up. A cool wipe gets the grit out of the corners of his eyes, and a bit of scrubbing gets the sticky sweat off his chest. With a brief look of distaste, he pulls the vaccsuit back up, and shrugs into it. At least it keeps itself clean.

He looks at his wardrobe, and considers getting out his uniform. No, no one else will. He gets out a clean shirt, and pulls it on, then half-reconsiders and adds his beret. Heh. Proper mercenary look.

He leaves his cabin, his stride much crisper now. Don't know what the meeting is going to hold, but there's no point in delaying it.

Ger enters the conference room soon after the Aslan and Bhyarrvouf.

"I am sure that my officers will be here in a few minutes. would you care for any refreshements? And how would you like to be introduced, I am still unaware of your executive officer's rank."

Akhouw eyes Ger for a moment. "Certainly hkyadwaeh, if you can make it, or strong tea, if not. I am sure that as long-service Darrian veteran you will honor me with your introduction of Officer Commandant Aiwi and myself."

Ger looks around the empty room, and then taps his commdot. "To all command team representitives..."

"...This is commander Ger, We are awaiting you in the conference room. Should we not get much better attendance, Mr. Bhyarrvouf and I shall go through the agenda ourselves. Ger out."

"Aye sir." Witfield gets up from the sensor station. Set sensors on auto, and to alert him via commlink if anything unusual occures.

Christian activates his commdot. "I beg your indulgence, Commander. We've had a small emergency in Low Berth Four that is now under control. I will be there very shortly."

"Doktor Morser here, Herr Admiral. I vill be along prrresently."

As the messages file in, Ger gets a note on his deskcomp from Blaine:

::Sir. I have requests for boarding from Westwind and Arbiter. Shall I request they wait for an escort, and ask security to meet them? Blaine.::

He calls Zben directly-- "Okay Mr. Blaine, it seems the meeting is a bit delayed in getting started, anyway. Send someone, your choice, to meet each of the delegations, if the contracts are signed, and there aren't any irregularities (that is no other writing or notations), then collect the contracts and let them on board, I'll leave it up to you if you want to try to find someone to give them a tour... Ger out."

"Wilco, Sir!" Zben breaks the connection and checks the current status of non-department heads, starting with the contact team, then security. Finding that Horne and Sokuku and tied up, he tries Andon Shrike "Blaine to Mr. Shrike Do you have the time to escort the crew of Gemini Arbiter to the crew lounge? If so, please get in touch me" and then "Blaine to Mr. Jonson: Thule are you available to conduct personel from the Westwind to the crew lounge? If so, please contact me."

"This's Thul. Zben, Lazer wants me in the Armory in a hurry. The guys on the Westwind haven't been any trouble-- send someone like Frieder or Wrinkely, they oughta do fine."

"Mr Blaine, Shrike here. Can do. Just take me a few minutes to get there. Any special instructions? and do you want me to leave right away?"

"Thanks, Andon. Yes, the Commander wants signed Contracts from each person boarding the Alycon, which, just in case, I'll relay a couple of copies of to you. From the tone of message I think it would be wise to get there reasonably soon...but don't kill yourself. I'll tell them you'll be there in, say 15 minutes [rough estimate]?"

"Roger, I'll call in when I get to the airlock."

With that Shrike will shutdown the pilot station, it was only on standby mode anyway, and proceed off the Talisman and through the Alcyon to the docking ring occupied by the Gemini Arbiter.

With that Zben switches to a line to the GA: "Gemini Arbiter, this is the Alycon. Mr. Shrike with be at your dock in approximately 15 minutes to escort you to our crew lounge. Be advised that Commander Ger is in conference at the moment, but I'm sure will wish to speak to you quite soon. Until then we can at least offer you our hospitality. Please have the signed copies of the afformentioned contract for his inspection."

>"J.J. then clicks his comdot, "Hey who's on Commo, anyway whoever >it is I need to talk to Commander Ger ASAP on a secure line, I will >not talk to anyone but him or Vouf, but I prefer Ger. Or if the >commander wishes to meet with the 'Phin I can escort the phin to him"

"Person calling Commo, this is Blaine. Commander Ger is in conference at the moment, and should not disturbed. I will relay your request to him, ASAP." Zben toggles off and addresses the Computer,

"Pater; could you load a note into the Commanders hand-com that..." he breaks off and checks a read out "...Mr Horne requests to talk to him about the Dolphin. Would you also forward a copy of that to Mr Bhyrrvouf."

>Dave taps his comdot. << Contact Team-- Can anyone track down some >dolphin translation software? We've developed an urgent need for it >here on the Talisman. Also, anyone who speaks Aslan, please contact >Mister Farouk. >>

Zben sets up a message to Farouk: "Lazer, this is Zben. I understand you're looking for people who speak Aslan? I spent some time with on a trade mission within the Aslan Hierate, can speak the language ok, and I understand some of the social customs, etc. However, I'm probably going to be here on the bridge for some time yet. I'll be glad to do what I can, though..."

"Zben, this is Lazer. Thanks for volunteering--what I need are people who understand the Aslan, and if possible speak the language, in case we have problems. Hope we don't need it, but we need to be ready. Farouk out."

A call comes to the Bridge. "Hallo, Zben. This is Aaron haut-Frieder; if you still need someone to check out one of the ships, I have a few free minutes. I'll escort the passengers to the Lounge."

"Great. Thanks, Aaron."

"Roger Alcyon. Standing by." says Aurelia as she places the comm channel on standby and turning to face Nichole, "Shouldn't be long now."

Meanwhile, elsewhere on the Alcyon, Ralf looks up from his activity and checks the time. "Pater, whereinell are those people from the Gemini Arbiter?"

_The Gemini Arbiter is docked. Mr. Shrike has been dispatched to escort their representatives to their meeting._

"Right. Do me a favor and patch me through the internal network to the handiest speaker to the airlock. Ping me when they're about to board."

Lazer enters at two minutes before the meeting is to begin. Conflicting emotions surge within Lazer; he uses an uncharacteristic formality to conceal them from the world. Still, the Aslan may sense his tension.

Ger seems surprisingly calm, even cheerful. What does that mean? Does it not bother him that his crew held him at gunpoint an hour ago, or is his poker face just inhumanly good?

Lazer sits, and waits stoically for the meeting to begin. Mac Witfield enters a few moments later, and bows very deeply to the two Aslan before sitting down. Dave Sokuku enters soon after that, and nods to the guests before being seated.

About five seconds before the meeting is about to begin Abuko arrives in the conference room somewhat out of breath as if he had run the entire way to the crew spaces. A moment later, Karl Morser comes in, equally out of breath.

The door opens and Etienne de Mer steps through short seconds before the scheduled time. The presence of the two Aslan officers obviously startles him but by the time he crisply salutes Commander Ger he has regained his equilibrium. Etienne also salutes Bhyarvouf and gives a short nod to the Aslan. With only a slight hesitation Etienne sits at the table and turns his attention to Commander Ger.

As officers come in for the meeting, Akhouw is casually sitting in his chair, idly scratching at the palm of his left hand. His gaze is very direct and unwavering as he coolly identifies, analyzes, and accepts each person, all in a very brief span of time.

When Etienne enters, Admiral Akhouw responds with a similar nod. He notes the scabbard hanging from Etienne's waist, and quietly prrowls in approval.

A minute or two before Ger calls the meeting to order, Akhouw leans over to Aiwi for a private conversation. "Contact Aolkrhea'. The pod survivors may leave the _Trakh_ and join with their compatriots as they wish. When they do so, arrange the transfer through Alcyon Security." He pauses for a moment, then speaks even more softly. "Keep your eyes open, Officer Aiwi. When you return to the _Trakh_, run a check through Fa'eairl on their command officers, particularly as to Admiral Nanadth, and on Turnskaad."

At 0450.00 Ger stands up and addresses those present:

"I'd like to begin the meeting by introducing our two guests. First on my Left is Admiral Akhouw the illustrious commander of the Trakh, and to his left his Executive officer, Commandant Aiwi. They will be our guests until we are able to reach normal space."

Akhouw drinks a deep draught of whichever sort of tea was brought to him. He sets the tankard down and in the gesture common to so many species, raises an eyebrow at Ger. "Perhaps, Admiral Nanadth, but that depends on where normal space *is*."

"Admiral, please let me introduce you to my officers:"

Akhouw regards each with cool interest, and nods to each in turn.

"To my right, is my executive officer, whom you have already made the aquantace of." {indicating each in turn, and pausing in case anyone whishes to say a few words in greeting] "Lazer Farouk, Head of security" "Johann Abuko, Head of Engeering" "Head of Transport, Etienne de Mer" "Christian Van de Merwe, our chief surgeon, and head of Medical--"

At that moment, Christian strides into the meeting room with a determined step. He nods to his assembled colleagues, including Commander Ger and Vouf, before taking his seat. Sitting stiffly upright, he rests his hands on the table as he waits for the meeting to start. His inner tension is hidden under his practiced calm exterior.

"Dr. Karl Morser, Physical Sciences" "Contact & Social science head, Dave Sokuku" "and Mac Witfield, head of our generalist team" "Unfortunately Mr. Jett, our legal representative seems to be missing in action"

"We have decided [indicating to Admiral Akhouw] that it would be benifical for our crews to exchange information, and to echange guests. I will put the coordination of the exchange under Mr. Sokuku. I would like to remind all of you that our esteemed guests are not from your culture, and thus insults and worse can occur without any intent. Mr. Sokuku will prepare a list of cultural guides for both species, please brief your sections on these procedures."

"Admiral I will have Mr. Sokuku provide you with an imperial guide in case it is helpful. Also I think the first item on the agenda will be of interest to you, and if you could take just a bit of time from your pressing duties to stay for this one item..."

Admiral Akhouw opens his hands in a formal gesture of thanks. "Such information may be of use, even though much of my command has experience dealing with fiyfiyalr, or hisol'i. I would be honored to remain in the company of your officers."

"Item 2, discussion of investigating the universe. I think that we have been blessed with an unique oppurtunity to gather scientific data about whatever region that we are in. Dr. Morser, I would like you to corrdinate the investigation of the area which we are in, so that we don't have a repeat of the sensor failures." "If our guests are interested, I would like you to also coordiate the investigations with that of the Aslan scientists."

Akhouw leans forward with some pride. "Absolutely, Admiral Nanadth. Even in my long service I have never seen such an environment, and I suspect neither have my officers. Knowledge may give us an edge against the fate which we cannot discern... Scientist Hryawi will be most eager to collaborate with you, Doctor Morser..."

Nodding to the aslan, Morser replies, "As vill I, herr Admiral Akhouw. I am most interrrested in hearrring an aslan opinion of our little univerrrse..."

"Admiral I would like to thank you for your appearance here, I hope that our relations will be of benefit two both of us."

Akhouw stands up and formally bows. "We appreciate your gracious hospitality, Admiral Nanadth." He turns to address the whole meeting. "My greetings to you all, and my hopes that I shall meet each of you at some later time. Please do not hesitate to suggest an exchange, or ask questions of your own. With your permission, Admiral Nanadth, I would like to wait in your (pause) lounge until your business here is complete."

Since boarding the Alcyon, Aiwi has been silent, her only communcation a respectful bow of the head when acknowledged by 'Vouf. She has preferred to watch and listen closely as the Admiral engages the fiyfiyalr. Now, when the Admiral moves to leave the meeting after his briefly addressing the Alcyon's officers, she speaks quietly, but openly, to him. "With your leave I shall return to the Trakh, Admiral. There are details I must attend to in order to expedite the exchange of crewmembers."

A short bow, then he smoothly walks out, following Aiwi.

[After the Aslan's leave ger will flash up the full agenda on the room's computer display:

1) Greetings. 2) Investigating the universe. >3) Transfer of Rigo Edmonsen to security. 4) Bernoulli & crew 5) Chain of command 6) OOD 7) Aslans 8) Sensor reporting 9) Birds & warbots A) The Kingfisher incident B) Mission Objectives C) New Business ]

"Next on our agenda, is the Transfer of Rigo Edmonsen to Security as well as a Generalist. As Mr. Farouk is proposing the transfer, I will have him discuss his reasons...."

Lazer nods. "I'm making the proposal at Rigo's request. He feels underemployed on the generalist team, and believes his experience would be useful to us. Most of my men have military experience, and the addition of someone accustomed to civilian security would be valuable.

"I can use the extra man, since with the presence of the Aslan I see the probability of an incident of some kind much more likely now. He has some experience with Aslan, also, which is an added benefit. I don't believe there are any salary or contract issues, so I hope this won't be controversial."

Witfield adds, "I, as the head of the generalist team, don't have any problem with it. The role of my team is to assist other departments in everyway we can, thus I see this as a good thing."

Ger nods. "If no one has any problems with this, then 'Vouf, make the note in the ships records."

Bhyarrvouf nods. "So noted. Memo to Mister Blaine: update Mister Edmondsen's commo channel access to include Security Team codes. Memo to Mister Azani: outfit Mister Edmondsen with a suit of combat armor, per SecTeam specifications."

"On to item 4: The wreck of the Bernoulli and her crew." "I beleve the Aslan have 2 members of her crew on board their ship, which they will be turing over to us as soon as they have assuered to their health and well being... Dr. De Merwe or anyone, what do we know about the crew? who was the commander?"

"Correction, sir. The Bernoulli was the small Scout ship, with Doctor Trrweerrrl the only survivor. The lifepod and the people sent to our Sickbay appear to have come from the wreck that the Solomani destroyed."

"Oh really. I wasn't aware of that. Well in any case we'll need to know who the commander of the other ship is and get a contract to them, as well it would be nice to know their story."

After Vouf corrects Ger, the good Doctor speaks up. "Commander, we have sketchy information right now, due to the promptness of this meeting I did not have the chance to talk to them fully. It appears that a number of our new guests were passengers or crew aboard the liner "Glory of Efate." He consults his hand computer. "Lee Tiblisi, Tar Berana, Dr. Casey Rednisky."

"Commander, I've already asked Mister Farouk to detail a person to brief our guests on Alcyon security, but i would much rather have your permission to set up an overall briefing on events to date, particularly if you are looking to have them join our crew. They are rather disoriented, and it is in their medical interests, if nothing else, if we help them understand where they are and what is going on."

Ger nods in approval. "Give them a briefing, and if they then desire to join our crew, and sign those contracts of Mr. Jett's then by all means give them full briefings, quarters, computer access etc."

"Item 5: Chain of Command. It seems that the current method of command structure is not working as well as I would have thought at first. I would like each of you to make more of the day to day decisions, particularity those regarding your own departments."

Bhyarrvouf raises his eyes to the ceiling in a silent gesture of thanks.

"As such we will be assigning ranks and a better organizational structure to our crew. I would like input from you on two things. First should we be trying to find a space for the new crews in our own structure or leave them as guests. Second, would you prefer to have ranks corresponding to a merchant vessel, or those of a military vessel. I would prefer to have the latter. Discussion?"

Witfield: "With the new crews, assuming they have signed the contracts, I'd prefer they be fit in with our structures. I think it would make things easier. As for rank, I'd prefer military ranks myself."

"I believe," 'Vouf says, "That integrating the new people into the crew is of primary importance. We have had losses that need to be filled, and I don't regard 'guests' with nothing to do as being a good idea on a mission of this kind. From what I've gathered so far, all of the people we've taken on are competent and useful personnel, with the possible exception of the matched set of puyallup on the Gemini Arbiter, and the sooner we put them to wok, the better. The survivors of the Bernoulli and the Glory of Efate are particularly eager to make themselves useful, and the sooner we channel Doctor Trrweerrrlll's energies into productive avenues the better for all of us. The one exception MIGHT be the Aslan, who will almost certainly want to retain a separate command structure, but whom we should be able to trust, to an extent, not to interfere with OUR duties. Admiral Akhouw has said that those of his crew who might not work well alongside non-Aslan will be restricted to the Trakh."

Christian nods in agreement. "I quite agree, SubCommander. I see no cogent argument to decline their services, if offered. For example, one of the liner survivors isa very competent surgeon. Ignoring his potential usefullness would be more than a shame."

Etienne rather hesitantly speaks up, "Who will be responsible for deciding which teams they should join?"

"I would imagine that that job would fall to the Captain and myself," Bhyarrvouf shrugs, "With final approval or disapproval of a posting to be in the hands of the Team Leaders. I doubt that there'll be much trouble pegging what jobs people want to do, and we're shorthanded just about everywhere...."

Bhyarrvouf goes on, "As to ranking, I consider a strict military structure to be impractical-- who assigns ranks, and what do they mean? A merchant ranking scheme, divided by department with a clear command chain in each, would do as well in my opinion, but I will not argue the matter if I am outvoted. I WOULD suggest an immediate schedule of Officers of the Deck as soon as possible, so the Commander and I can get some sleep."

Christian looks vaguely irritated by Ger's suggestion of military ranks and structure. "I don't know about my colleagues, but I didn't sign aboard for another military tour. Structure and a chain of command is one thing, forming this into a military expedition quite another. I endorse the concept of a clear command outline, but would not agree that we need to outline each department much past an XO or Deputy. However, I do heartily endorse the SubCommander's suggestion for an OOD rotation schedule."

Ger shrugs. "One could say the same about merchant ranks, they would have to be arbitrarily assigned, I'm not about to write a bunch of merchant qualification tests. And military ranks would also provide a clear chain of command. I prefer the military system, as that is what I am most familiar with, though I have no problems with a merchant one."

"Okay We'll use merchant ranking then. I guess that makes me the Captain, 'Vouf you'll be the 1st Officer, the rest of you 2nd Officers. I want you to assign a clear line of command within each of your departments. Thus whomever replaces you would be a 3rd Officer, and then 4th and 5th and so on."

"Aye aye, Captain," Bhyarrvouf notes easily.

"The Departments will then be prioritized as to their familiarity with shipboard operations and the command chain will progress along that line for all 2nd officers, and then repeat for 3rd, etc. The following is what I came up with:"

[The following replaces the agenda on the conference room display: Transport Engineering Security Medical Generalist Social Science Physical Science]

"Any questions?"

"Looks good to me, sir," 'Vouf comments. "We can assure the availability of competent people to fill command-chain positions as needed from the other Teams by crosslisting them on Teams with higher priority. A good example of this is the recent crosslisting of Mister Edmondsen to the Security Team."

"I'd also recommend that any individuals who stand a chance of being in the position of Command during watches or emergencies make it a point to know the abilities and qualifications of those of similar rank, so as to assure proper delegation of authority and workload in a hurry."

"As for Officers of the Deck, the three highest-ranking members of the crew, The Captain, First Officer and Second Officer/Bridge, can cover the usual stints, but we should have others for duty cycles when the high-ranked crew are required elsewhere. Based on previous experiences and evaluation of work records so far, Captain, I wish to nominate the following suggestions, subject to your approval and those of their respective Team leaders: Zben Blaine, Andon Shrike, Morgan Grey, Nishu Neriika, Goughzar...."

He pauses and frowns for a moment, then grins lopsidedly. "And Mac Witfield. You're never too young to start learning how to lead."

"Lead, yuks!" Mac sighs, and shrivers. "Aye, first Officer, sir!" He said with half jest.

Etienne nods slightly at the mention of Grey and Neriika. "When will we be starting with this, sir?"

"Immediately, I should hope," 'Vouf says. "And let me clarify something here: by 'usual stints' I mean the fact that both Count Ger and I are comfortable on the Bridge, and spend time there when we can, but should not be placed on the rotation roster unless there's a desperate need. With six qualified men on the rotation and you to oversee them, Etienne, we should be able to come and go as we please without all operations shutting down until someone can get us on the proverbial 'horn'. Each man is to have an eight-hour shift every other day, and his duties adjusted so that he can work from his Bridge station when he's there. The OOD will have command authority for any reasonable circumstance that arises; naturally any vital decisions should be passed by the Captain or me."

Ger continues. "Item 7: The Aslans. Even though they are our guests, they still may be our adversaries. I don't want any of you or the rest of the crew discussing our orders from Turnskaad. As well, Mr. Whitfield, I'd like you to make a list of sensitive areas, such as the weapons, with the cooperation of security, close those areas and make sure that they are monitored in some way."

Witfield puts in, "Aye sir, off hand, I'd say the computers should be on the list, as well as weapons. I think various department heads, as well as everyone from the security department should have something more than just snub pistols. As for computers, perhaps an extra verification step be added for system saftey. Armory should perhaps have guards assigned, with security cameras. I recommand all security cameras be activated at all times, monitored by PATER, as well as a human operator on the bridge for standby. Sensitive areas such as enginnering, and bridge should have additional safty measure as well."

Ger nods. "I don't think that we have to increase anyone's armament. And as long as there is someone with them in engineering they should have access. Other than that, your suggestions seem reasonable."

"I'm not sure that department heads carrying lethal weapons is necessarily a good idea," 'Vouf agrees. "Gauging trust with those people is a tricky business. They seem to be comfortable with the level of preparedness we have right now; I have already authorized lethal ammo for the snub pistols carried by Security. I suppose we could extend that to Command Team members, if necessary...." He looks over at Farouk. "But not yet."

"Item 8: The Aslan commander has requested of me the identity of the person who put the fleet of ships on his sensors. He idicated that it was a matter of honour. My attempt to cover it up seems to not have worked. I promised him a report on the incident by this evening. I would like to suggest that the person who did it write up an explanation, but I would like your suggestions as to whether we sould give them the name or not. Actually does anyone remember who did it??"

"A coverup would be a bad idea, Commander," 'Vouf notes. "If someone IS culpable from among us, then your hiding his misconduct compounds the insult and places our relations with the Aslan in serious jeopardy. I don't see us as having any choice other than handing over the culprit to the Aslan. I don't THINK they'll kill him."

Etienne's face begins to show signs of anger but he refrains from any commment.

"Well," Ger says, "I don't beleive the Admiral indicating that they wanted them turned over, just the name of the individual. Perhaps if the report is well written...Well in any case does anyone recall who it was? No I don't remember, I'd have to review the logs."

Abuko frowns at the byplay. "Assuming that the person who did it is an Imperial citizen, since the majority of the Alcyon crew is, do we have the authority to extradite this person to a foreign jurisdiction where he, as 'Vouf says, might face a capital punishment?"

"Oh, we HAVE the authority, A.P." 'Vouf looks grim. "But do we have just cause? That's the tricky bit."

Etienne finally speaks up. "Tricky? Sir, I can't think of ANY excuse for turning one of us over to the Aslan! Whoever it was may deserve punishment, by us, for overstepping his bounds, but I don't see that the Aslan have any right to even know who did it. Now, if they're asking because they want to patch leaks in their security net, that I understand, but to send one of our team to another ship for discipline should be out of the question!"

"NOTHING is out of the question, by definition, where Aslan are concerned," 'Vouf growls. "I was never in a position to have to deal with them directly before this, and I never missed it. They can be touchy to the point of paranoia, and this Admiral Akhouw seems to have one SERIOUS bloodtick up his butt about the violation. If he starts making demands to know who the culprit is, and making the usual Aslan noises about honor and scummy humans protecting their own, then we ARE going to have a problem on our hands."

"Believe me, Etienne, I do NOT want to throw whomever it was to the Aslan, even if it's only for a formal apology. But these aren't just ANY Aslan-- they're the Number-Two clan in the Twenty-Nine, and the biggest bunch of obnoxious stuffed shirts you're ever going to cross anywhere in known space. MAYBE even worse than the K'Kree. We'd best be ready for ANYTHING, including trying to negotiate ourselves out of a hole in this matter."

Christian frowns slightly. "Doctor Abuko, I'm certainly no expert on Aslan, but it's hard to avoid picking up some knowledge if one stays in the Marches long enough. I think you are viewing it in a very human legal context. Nobody has said that the Aslan want the person dumped on their ship for a trial. Nobody has asked that we do that; all that has been requested is an identity. I am sure that they will make their intentions known before they do anything THAT drastic, if I read them correctly. I'm no expert on Aslan "honor", does anyone have a better idea of what the Aslan may intend?"

Ger puts an end to the discussion. "Well, as nobody seems to recall who it was in the first place, Mr. De Mer, I'm putting you in charge of the matter. Go through the logs and records from the period, determine who it was who did it, have them write up a report. I do have a feeling that it was someone from your department, and do let them know the report is going to the aslan. Then you myself, Vouf and Mr. Farouk will meet later to discuss the problem."

Somewhat deflated after his outburst, Etienne responds with a simple "Yes, sir."

"Aye, sir." 'Vouf nods.

"Item 9: The bird. 'Vouf and I have been not too successful at placing said creature under any semblance of control. I would like to space it, however the Dr. has spoken for said creature... If it breaks any other computer, security, or social procedures, I will have it arrested."

If Christian was a little frosty when the meeting began, when Ger speaks these words he is ice cold, reminiscent of 'Vouf's recent outburst, but with a reverse twist. "With all due respect, sir, Doctor Tweel is not a *CREATURE*, he is a brilliant sophont and should be accorded that basic respect! Doctor Tweel has been through a MOST stressful series of events; you must consider that he has been restricted aboard ships for some time now, and now finds himself locked into a cabin aboard a ship owned by a *corporate* entity."

Christian leans forward as he talks, animated and verbose. "Perhaps, sir, if you have been unsuccessful, it is because you have not considered the situation from the viewpoint of an Ael Yael, albeit a brilliant one. With tolerance and the proper approach, I believe we can get Doctor Tweel to "play along" with us. Sometimes less is more, sir, and a low-key, forthright approach should pay us dividends."

"Perhaps, sir, you should elaborate on your statement. I, for one, would be interested to know for what actions you would treat him as a most dangerous criminal, particularly in light of your expressed desire to kill Doctor Tweel for his prior conduct if not for my own intercession." Christian is looking directly at Ger, inviting him to rephrase his statement about "spacing" Tweel, his voice reflecting his devoted advocacy.

"Lazer, I noted the existance of a warbot on board the ship. I also beleive that it may be connected with the bird. Has it been deactivated yet, and if not, why?"

Christian lets Ger finish his statement before interrupting. "No, sir! He is not a BIRD, sir. He is Doctor Tweel. NOT a bird." Ger's casual use of the terms "creature" and "bird" have clearly irritated Christian. "No more than I am an ape, or SubCommander Bhyarrvouf a dog." The good doctor's face reflects his utter disgust at such epithets.

"I must concur with Christian," Sokuku adds. "We are dealing with several species all of a sudden and we must all remember that they are intelligent, thinking beings. Please keep that fact foremost when dealing with them."

Ger is unfazed by Christian's statements. "Well Doctor, the spacing was said in jest. It just exemplifies the fustration I have experienced in dealing with "Him". One does not use spacings even for capital crimes. Also 'Vouf is a dog, and you and I are apes. Without knowing "his" species, "bird" is all I had for "him" also I was unaware of "his" gender or even the classification of said genders. They are nothing more than labels that one applies for identification purposes."

Christian is clearly unpersuaded by the explanation, but his asperity abates somewhat. "Perhaps I reacted too strongly, Commander, but it was a jest in poor taste, in my opinion. You are entitiled to your opinion as to naming, but I prefer not to be casually insulting to my friends or mere acquaintances from other species. I do not accept your evident opinion that such derogatory terms are either neutral or benign, sir." He looks at Ger with an intent gaze. "I appreciate the opportunity to speak freely, Commander. Full communication is often theraputic."

Christian takes a deep breath to calm his inner gut-wrenching. "As for the warbot, Commander, it is Doctor Tweel's way of ensuring his own, personal security in an often hostile world. It is, if you understand the expression, a security blanket. I strongly urge that you consider it in that light before you issue orders regarding it, or Doctor Tweel."

Ger replies sharply, "In light of The Ael Yael's disregard for security and general uncooporativeness, I do not think that a weapon of unknown lethality should remain in his possession. No one else on the crew has access to any significant weaponry-- why should our guest?"

"I did not mean to say that we should simply ignore the issue, Commander." Christian's tone is mild and conversational. "Merely that we understand the concerns of Doctor Tweel and try to accomodate them while for our own sake taking cautious, prudent security measures."

"I concur, Commander," 'Vouf says. "The warbot will respond to my commands, but only if they are NOT countermanded by Doctor Tweel himself. If he will surrender the 'bot to us, I can arrange for its safe storage... but the move to do so MUST be his."

"If we can adequately assure him of his security, our task will be made substantially easier," is Christian's rejoinder. "I believe that if we indicate a readiness to permit his involvement in analyzing our current environment and our Ringworld data, and see if we can't find him quarters that are more suitable for a flight-inclined Ael Yael, we should be well on our way to the desired result. Some diplomatic assurances regarding Turnskaad and our relationship with it may also be in order."

"Does any one else have ideas here?"

Ger replies, "Assuming that he has signed the Judge's contracts, why don't you offer him a comfortable cabin, and computer access and involement in the current research, including assignment to the physical sciences team, in exchange for the 1st Officer storing the warbot safely away?"

Christian considers for a few moments. "Probably a doable deal, Commander. Between Subcommander Bhyarrvouf and myself, we should get Doctor Tweel squared away shortly. If you have no objection, I might suggest that the 'bot be secured aboard the Bernoulli (post-securing, obviously) or aboard the Aurora. He may find that more palatable."

Lazer interjects here. "Remember that the point of securing it is to prevent it from being used against the crew or other guests, so whereever it's stored, it has to be locked against Treweerel. That can be phrased more diplomatically, but I'm being blunt here to make the point."

"Two items to add, sir," Bhyarrvouf interjects. "One, a 'comfortable cabin' for an Ael doesn't really exist aboard the Alcyon. But when we get the Bernoulli safely stowed for repairs, the aft cargo hold will be large enough for him to do a little closed-course flying and stretch his wings a bit."

"And two, I think a formal apology on his part would be in order for the disruptions he has caused so far. Upset or not, he's not acting like a responsible officer or a responsible scientist."

"Item 10: The Kingfisher incident. I would really prefer to overlook the insubordination, and inefficency of the crew of the shuttle altogether during the simulation that I ran at that time. I cannot fault an officer from disobeing an order that they feel are wrong, but I can fault someone from trying to prevent someone else from executing an order. I do have orders to fire on the ringworld to destroy under certain circumstances, and I was actually running the simulation to test if the computer virus had left us, and if there were any leaks regarding our armament."

Bhyarrvouf remains stonily silent through this speech, and his eyes narrow.

Nearby, Christian is staring at Ger in total surprise, as if he had seen Ger goose-stepping down the hallway, singing pirate songs and drinking a tankard of rum. He stares at 'Vouf for a moment, then back at Ger, slowly shaking his head in disbelief and shock.

"Mr. Farouk, I'd be willing to forget the whole incident if you voluntarily submitted to being placed on probation, and a 50% cut in pay for the next 3 weeks. Either that or we can try to get a board of inquiry, and a court martial."

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