The TML PBeM

1993, Turn 0 - Part 4 (of 7)

Captain's Office - 09:05

Bhyarrvouf ushers Aiwi into his office and motions her to a chair, one with the tail-hole already popped out for her. When she sits, he sits as well, not behind his desk but perched on the edge of it, very near to her. For a long moment, his strange blue-violet eyes bore into hers. When he speaks, his voice is quiet and cool, without a hint of anger.

"Aiwi, we don't know each other very well. But Akhouw trusts you with his life, and I trust Akhouw with mine, so I assume you're good at what you do. When I saw you working aboard the Trakh, you never failed to be a model officer, the very epitome of efficiency. That was in stark contrast to what I see before me right now." He grows stern.

"You were LATE for the call-up, and you came crashing onto the Bridge like a Virushi with a thorn in his flank, disrupting the orderly operation of the Bridge and coincidentally very nearly squashing your commanding officer like a bug on a windshield. I appreciate enthusiasm on the part of my officers. I do NOT appreciate getting bowled over."

"I assume you have an explanation for this unseemly behavior?"

Aiwi sits stiffly erect, her hands clasped together in her lap. She meets 'Vouf's gaze steadily, but without a hint of challenge. He can see that this is far from easy for her: the innate pride of a Fteirle noble officer wars with shame and dishonour in her posture and expression.

As 'Vouf speaks, she is completely attentive. It may have just been his imagination, but that could have been a blink, and an imperceptible flick of the ear, as though she were expecting something rather...louder?

"Sir!" A soft, even tone. "I hope I did not injure you in any way, sir?"

"Young lady, in my life I have been kicked into electric fences, impaled on decorative iron fence-spikes, clawed, knifed and shot at least fifteen times each, had over twenty bones broken with varying degrees of severity, had all of my teeth systematically knocked out, and most recently have endured a crushed ribcage and radiation burns at the hands of a psychotic robot. When I get HURT by bouncing off my Exec, it's time for me to retire."

A slight pause, then...

"I have, by my clumsiness and thoughtlessness caused you dishonour in the presence of your subordinates. I have placed in jeopardy the safe and efficient operation of this vessel. I..." She pauses. "I have brought dishonour upon myself and my clan in the eyes of my fellow crewmembers. I have transgressed the teachings of the Tao, which require of us patience and measured action at all times. For this, I am truly ashamed..."

She looks down. "I offer no excuses for my failings. The reason for my tardiness compounds my dishonour. I hade obtained a quantity of supplies both from the Trakh and locally, suitable for Fteirle on a long journey, and had made arrangements to have them delivered. I was unwilling to demand the Trakh's speeder for such a mission, since it is preparing to lift off itself, and so I hired a local cargo carrier, whose performance was," Her eyes slit for a moment and one fang shows, "Inadequate. We arrived late to the Staging Area, and my hasty and precipitate actions stemmed from a desire to be available on station as promptly as possible..."

She looks up at 'Vouf once more, a slight shine in her eyes. "Sir. You have the right under our traditions to select a female member of your crew to issue a formal challenge to combat against me. I understand that you may not consider that appropriate, and I suggest that you discuss with my lord Akhouw what disciplinary action you wish to take. He will no doubt wish to exact a penalty of his own, for the dishonour I have brought on all Fteirle aboard this vessel..."

She lapses into silence.

'Vouf looks at Aiwi for a long moment, saying nothing. Then he sighs gustily, half in weariness, half in disgust. "Aiwi, I can see that I have a lot to learn about having Aslan as subordinates. I don't think I'm going to like learning some of it. Fortunately, I have a fine enough perception of Aslan honor to keep from making TOO many severe blunders, and my being the Captain to whom you've all sworn fealty gives me a certain leeway. That, and the fact that I am after all nothing but a Vargr barbarian....."

He leans over toward Aiwi, and speaks very softly. "Listen and obey. I consider this entire matter forgotten. Your alacrity in reporting for duty is duly noted, and no harm is done. It is the nature of both humaniti and vargr to forgive trespasses that no fteirle would tolerate, and I rely heavily on the internal strength of your own will to maintain you on a path you regard as honorable, because as long as I am in command here you will not face Challenge for attempting to do your duty to the best of your ability. 'One cannot challenge the Rain for wetting one's cloak,' is it not said? I opened the iris valve at exactly the wrong moment. That wasn't your fault, and no apology or penitence is necessary." He pauses, then continues in a stiffer tone, "It is not my normal duty to instruct my subordinates on proper behavior, but I trust a lesson concerning precipitous flight through a crowded ship HAS been learned?" He raises an eyebrow.

"Oh, and Aiwi-- one more thing. You defer to Akhouw because he's male, but for purposes of doing your job your rank EQUALS his, as far as I'm concerned. If you feel it necessary to submit yourself to his discipline, that's your own PERSONAL choice, and has nothing to do with the Command structure of this ship. In fact, I would request--NOT order-- that if he DOES attempt to discipline you, which I doubt, that you politely ask him if he considers me too weak a Captain to discipline my subordinates properly. And if he does, tell him to look me up just as soon as he can--"

The blue eyes turn cold. "But not until after he chooses a Referee and notifies Sickbay." Aiwi has seen her Admiral vanquish many fierce foes, but there is something in the tiny Vargr's voice that tells her that a Challenge between these two men is something she does not wish to see....

"Have I made myself quite clear?"

"Yes, sir!" Her chin raised, her gaze steady, Aiwi's composure has returned. She pauses for a moment, giving 'Vouf a considered look, as if seeing him in a new light...

"Sir, Akhouw Tra'Ekhaul is my...there is no exact term in Anglic... `clan liege-lord'. I can do no other than show him the respect due by clan custom."

"I understand that," 'Vouf says. "But no one should be punished twice for the same crime."

A hint of a smile, then..."The ...natural exuberance of a Fteirle noble male, and the requirements for an efficiently-run starship do not always mesh satisfactorily, but I have been able to resolve these matters in the past without unpleasantness. Captain, both your Executive Officers will perform their duties to the best of their abilities, and without dispute over such things as relative status. I assure you of that."

'Vouf nods, smiling.

"Captain. By your leave, I wish to take my place at my station..."

She gets up, and turns to leave...

"Hey." 'Vouf stops her with a word. "I know what that tail position means on a Vargr, and I'm willing to hazard a guess that on a Fteirle it's not that far different. Aiwi...is there anything else you want to talk about, while you have my ear?"

Aiwi hesitates, and half-turns. A long, slow breath...

"I am very grateful for your concern, Captain. There...is something, but I would prefer to discuss it with a clan-sister." A wry half-smile. "A female matter."

"Erf." One ear folds back. "Well, keep in mind that I AM an Engineer, if that makes me any more 'female' for your purposes. I leave it up to you."

"Permission to take my station, sir?"

"Of course. After you." Bhyarrvouf ushers her out.

No more than a minute after the Captain takes Aiwi aside, the bridge door hisses open again. Nishu Neriika pauses on the threshold, noting the surprised silence that greets him. Glancing at his wrist chrono with a sigh, he straightens his shoulders and steps forward.

He looks around the bridge, briefly nodding to the others present. He stops before the imposing golden figure of Akhouw and salutes crisply.

"Duty Navigator Neriika reporting, sir."

Akhouw bows in reply. "Yes, Mister Neriika, Crew Chief Aiwi will be with us shortly. Please step over to the navigation station and she will be with you shortly."

The door to the Captain's Office opens, and Aiwi comes out. She is completely calm and composed, her uniform now straightened and neat and her fur rearranged. Her expression is unreadable. 'Vouf follows her out, and punches the iris-valve button to the Bridge.

Aiwi steps onto the Bridge. Behind her, 'Vouf says mildly, "Crew Chief on the Bridge, Commander-- oh! Hi, Nishu! Back later." And he trots off down the hall.

Nishu smiles and waves to the departing vargr.

Akhouw notes Aiwi's entrance with a sharp nod of acknowledgement. A sudden thought seems to strike him, and he thoughtfully tosses his mane, before he opens a comm channel. << Hrr, PATER, run full diagnostic modes on bridge systems, as well as gunnery and screen systems. List all faults. if any, according to system, level, and repair estimate. >>

_Yes, commander._ replies PATER. _Class zero yard diagnostics for the specified subsystems will require eight minutes and twenty seconds, and will require that sensor, screen, and weapon subsystems be taken off line. There will be intermittent interruptions to navigation and communcations subsystems. You may cancel the process at any time. Beginning fault detection sweep now._

Aiwi moves to the Navigation station, with a decorous nod to Akhouw. Once there, she takes a seat, and says crisply, "Mister Neriika, I look forward to working with you. We shall begin preliminary calculations for the first Jump in just a moment."

"And I you, my Lady." He pauses for a moment, then recites in passable and obviously-memorized Trokh, [It is an honor to serve.]

Aiwi notes the small courtesy with raised eyebrows, and nods. "Your courtesy does you honor, Mister Neriika."

Aiwi turns to Zben. "Mister Blaine, when Mister Bishop relieves you at 1600 I wish a complete sweep of the crew communications systems. I have reviewed your communications protocols for the Alcyon teams, and regard them as excellent in their clarity and efficiency. A suitable analog for the Elissa would be more than sufficient. In the meantime, maintain monitoring of OTHER late arrivals, and flag me at half-hour intervals with the names of crew who have not yet boarded."

She then turns back to Nishu and the task at hand.

With a smart "Aye, Sir!", Zben prompts PATER to give him a list of the crew status and whereabouts....

_Of course, mister Blaine._ replies PATER. _As you may note, aside from yourself, commander Akhouw, crew chief Aiwi, mister Goughzer, and mister Neriika are here on the bridge._

_The captain is enroute to cargo bay number three, which is where mister Merkle and mister Niigurd are currently located. Doctor van der Merwe is also located at the starboard airlock and seems to be engaged in some form of inpromptu entertainment._

_Mister Hur'Shurvan and Mister Doejin are currently in engineering. Mister Bishop and mister haut-Frieder have taken advantage of their free time and are both currently swimming laps in the pool. All members of the security team have reported aboard and are currently meeting with major Farouk in the armoury._

Doctors Yorblin and Aolrkhea' are currently in sickbay. Mister Hryawi and doctor Limner are located in the physical sciences compartment. Mister Abuko, mister Nanadh, mister Grey, mister Munro, and mister Witfield are all in their respective cabins. Mister Talon is currently filing flightplans in preparation for moving the Westwind to the Elissa. Doctor DaSilva and mister de Mer are just arriving at cargo bay number three starboard hatch._

_Mister MacLaeran, doctor Morser, mister Schmud, mister Silvmane, doctor Smythe, mister Sokuku, doctor Tabor, and doctor Werner have not yet reported in._

_Is that sufficient, mister Blaine?_ PATER inquires.

Nishu moves to stand beside Aiwi's chair, while she speaks to Zben. His manner is attentive and professional when her attention returns to him.

"Let us begin," Aiwi says. "I shall start with the stellar data; you shall calculate local gravimetric curves for the appropriate Jump point." She then calls up a star-map in the main holotank, leaving the secondary display for Nishu to use.

A wireframe model of the local system floats before Nishu as he works, with gravity intensities represented as faint nested spheres. The 10-diameter limit for each body is a brighter, red sphere, while the 100 is a softly glowing amber.

For the last several minutes, Nishu has been trying to draw a curve between the moon and the surface of the largest sphere, the safe distance from the massive gas giant. Each time he checks a number or two and adjusts the parameters with a sigh, glancing at the block of text displayed in another small window.

At last, he leans back in his seat and stares at the last attempt. He's assumed ideal conditions, and that still isn't enough. Nishu mutters to himself, earning a questioning glance from Aiwi, and taps his commdot.

"Captain, this is Neriika. Do you have a moment? I need to talk to you about our launch schedule."

There is no answer; about five seconds later, the door to the Bridge opens and 'Vouf strides in. "I was just next door," he says brightly. "Now, what seems to be the..."

He looks past Nishu at the display, and his face assumes an expression quite similar to what one would expect on the face of a person who just received a VERY large intramuscular injection in the left buttock.

"The gas giant," he says to no one in particular, and smacks a hand to his forehead. Then he sighs. "Okay, Mister Neriika. How far off was my Jump estimate? An hour? Two?" His ears fold back slightly. "...Four?" He swallows. "...Eight?"

Aiwi raises an eyebrow and looks over Nishu's shoulder at the holotank.

Nishu coughs politely, trying to sound as sympathetic as possible. "The minimum time to 100 diameters that I got was thirteen and a half hours from launch. 14 is probably more like it."

"Kae!" 'Vouf winces. "Leave navigation to the Navigators." Aiwi looks at him with fairly little sympathy.

A pause. "Sir, we need to either push back the Jump time or move up the launch schedule."

'Vouf stares at the holo for a long moment, thinking furiously. Then he nods sharply, a decision made. "We'll do both. Mister Aiwi, begin a new set of calculations for a transition time of 1200 tomorrow at the optimum Jump point specified by Mister Neriika. Mister Neriika, we'll use your real-world estimate; give me a course that gets us from ground to Jump point in exactly fourteen hours. PATER, put me on the All Call."

"Aye, sir." Neriika nods.

_Connection made, Captain._

Bhyarrvouf's voice echoes over all decks and in all offices. << All hands, this is the Captain. Our launch and Jump schedule has been revised; we will be lifting off at 2200 tonight, and Jumping tomorrow at 1200. The fourteen hours it will take us to clear the gas giant's gravity well shall be used for fault investigation and repair on all systems. Let's hustle, people. Captain out. >>

'Vouf then turns to Akhouw. "Mister Akhouw, at the Bridge Division meeting at 1400 or before, as your schedule permits, I want you to determine the pilot with the most experience lifting heavy ships from ground ports-- I don't want someone who's never launched anything heavier than a Scout ship trying to get the Elissa off the pad in one piece."

Goughzar comes in, and Bhyarrvouf greets him with a handshake and grin. "Goughzar! Good to have you back, little cousin. I was getting worried about you."

"YaVek!"

'Vouf looks surprised, then cautious, then finally amused. "'YaVek'? I'm coming up in the world, apparently!"

When Goughzar enters, Akhouw glances over his shoulder but otherwise remains engaged with his monitoring of the pre-flight preparations. His ears shift slightly, the only visual clues of his attention to the light talk between Goughzar and Bhyarrvouf.

Goughzar steps back, regarding the coloring of the famous "breed" of Vargr, a moments hesitation, and then a wide grin splits his face and a laughingly large bow.

"Bhranda kghfe zhdaetso?... oh, excuse me. We are aboard ship, I should use Gangalic. It seems like over a year since the debriefing, and here we are again. No funny colors this time? Perhaps you should be wary of sickbay this voyage...", followed by a passive face with a mischevious glint in 'zar's eye.

"Nice to know you haven't lost your sense of humor, little cousin," 'Vouf says with a grim smile. His face still turned toward the shifting displays in the holo, Akhouw snorts, ever so softly.

"In all seriousness captain... it is good to be of service. I had long thoughts about rejoining this mission, and I am still wary of Turnskaad, but I think this voyage should be... different than the last."

"I hope so. Talk to Commander Akhouw about staff meetings and Helm assignments as soon as he's available. Get settled in. Dismissed."

With a grin, 'Zar steps forward into the bridge and surveys the area. Immediately taking in the Aslan busy at his console, he steps around to the helmsman's position and turns to Zben.

"I don't recall we've had a chance to work together before. I'm Goughzar - previously the commander of the Kharrbyegh... excuse me, the Paladin. I assume that's Akhouw over there..."

Zben taps a button on his console, rises, and extends his hand. "Greetings, Mr. Gouhhzar." He stumbles slightly pronouncing the name. "Welcome aboard. We'll be working together on second shift, so if you need anything, let me know!" With a smile, he nods toward Akhouw. "Yessir, but don't let that poise fool you!" With that he sits and resumes plowing through the piled up messages....

Relaxing against the helms controls, Goughzar speaks out into the open.

"Pater, please establish an open communications line with the Kharrbyegh... excuse me, the Paladin.

"Kharrbyegh, voice identification Goughzar. Please activate minimal life support and all sensor arrays. Begin primary and secondary diagnostics for standard pre-launch. Modify the diags for the attachment to the Jump Tender. Oh, and warm up something for me to drink. I hope to be there shortly."

Suddenly, Akhouw swivels the chair so that he is fully facing Goughzar. His impassive face stares at Goughzar for a moment. "Yes, *Mister* Goughzar?" A faint edge is evident in his tone.

Goughzar turns quickly at the voice, faces Akhouw and comes to attention.

"Sikarrl", a slight bow, his eyes never leaving Akhouw's. "I apologize most humbly Sir, I was under the assumption you were still attending to private concerns and would prefer to not be disturbed." Zar finishes the bow and stands awaiting Akhouw's response.

Akhouw replies in his level velvet growl. "Your courtesy repairs your error, Mister Goughzar. Did you wish to speak with me?"

"Sir.. I simply wished to introduce myself and determine the duties assigned before launch. If I am not needed here, I would request permission to finalize checks aboard the Paladin and make sure everything is in order there."

"Yes, Mister Goughzar, do so."

"Sikarrl, it is my honor to meet you formally at last. I look forward to serving under your command to the fullest of your expectations."

Goughzar cautiously bows again and leaves the bridge for the Paladin, already attached to the dorsal mounts of the Elissa.

After Goughzar leaves, Akhouw sighs and looks around the bridge, idly watching Aiwi and Nishu talking about navigational vectors and stellar coordinates. Nothing but female talk. How boring. He yawns slightly.

"Good pup," 'Vouf says softly, watching Goughzar leave. "Polite, smart, well-trained. But...." His eyes are troubled. "'YaVek'. Why THAT? Why NOW?" He shakes his head. "Stupid old wolf. I'm off again, Mister Akhouw, please hold the conn." And he leaves the Bridge.

"Sir." Akhouw respectfully stands until 'Vouf has left, when he stretches his full frame with an expression of evident relief. "Much better..." he mutters to no one in particular.

Disconcertingly, he yawns again, and then shakes his head, as if to clear his brain. His gaze sweeps the bridge again, now with a purpose in mind. Where is the beverage dispenser?

At about 0910, a slightly battered-looking air/raft drops out of the sky near to the Elissa. It lands with a clunk and a rattle, and doors slide open on each side of it. Two figures emerge, both wrapped up against the cold. One is apparently human, the other a huge bulk covered by several thermal blankets.

"Well, this is it, Shurv. I hear they've installed PATER on board. Must be a bit of a come-down for the poor electronic lunk after the Alcyon."

"It is still a very impressive ship by most standards, Nicholas."

"Yeah. Let's go see what's cooking." Talon makes his way up the boarding ramp. "Hello PATER? Are you listening? Are Shurv and I supposed to report to someone?"

_Welcome aboard, mister Talon, mister Hur'Shurvan._ PATER announces as they step off the top of the ramp into the cavernous cargo bay.

_Mister Hur'Shurvan, you should report to Chief Engineer Munro once you are settled into your cabin. She is currently located in engineering control on deck four._

_Mister Talon, Captain Bhyarrvouf and Executive Officer Akhouw are both currently on the bridge and would no doubt like to see you once you have stowed your personal equipment._

A rather battered Turnskaad-marked air/raft drops aggressively out of the sky, landing heavily in the designated parking area. The driver gets out almost before its springs have settled, and ungently hauls a bulky duffle out of the back seat. He lumps this on his back, slams the door, and runs toward the Elissa with a bounding low-gravity gait.

He vaults the cargo ramp, dodging a couple of startled cargo flunkeys. "PATER! Tell 'Vouf I'm here and I'll explain innaminnit--where's my cabin?"

_Deck four, forward and starboard. There are three doors on each side of the Deck four forward corridor; the Armory is second on the right._

Following PATER's directions, Lazer hurries through corridors and gravlift. At his cabin, he just opens the door, slams the duffle in, and shuts it. "The armoury, PATER. Which way?"

A figure in a grav belt comes to a hurtling stop at the entrance way to Staging Area 11. Several moments pass, then a large female Aslan walks majestically through the entrance, face shield opened on a yoyeaokhtef-trimmed helmet. Without breaking stride, she unemotionally sizes up the Elissa, studying the stark lines of the Fiyfiylr vessel.

As Aolrkhea' approaches the busy workers her expression improves. A glance at an empty Turnskaad airraft provokes a staccato purr. She halts at the hatch. "Fiya'" she whispers, sans the knee drop.

She climbs the ladder. "PATER, if anyone notes my tardiness, tell them I submit to the dishonor. A misunderstanding with the wake-up call, entirely my blame."

With a twinkle in her eyes, she adds, "Please inform the pilot of the Turnskaad airraft which just arrived that I am indebted for his receiving the speeding ticket that was deservedly mine."

_ I shall relay the message to Major Farouk at once, Doctor._

In her cabin, she hangs up the grav belt and puts on a tunic with tabard from her overnight bag. Next, she strolls toward sickbay. She'll pick up her trunk from the Khtaliyr after it is docked.

After a short pause during which everybody gets acquainted, Rigo continues.

"I see that Major Farouk hasen't arrived yet. That gives us a small problem. I've spoken to the bridge, and they'd like someone to stand guard at the entrance and someone to help the Loadmaster with security checks. And someone should be here to check in personal weaponry. Unless and until the Major changes it the policy is the same as on the Alcyon. Security and Command may carry lethal sidearms, the rest are restricted to snub guns with tranq loads - or gauss pistols with tranq if the Major approves. All other weapons are to be registered and locked up, staterooms acceptable but Armory preferable." He pauses, then resumes. "You look settled in, Colonel. Why don't you stay here while the rest of us covers the entrance and the cargo? Does anyone have any objections? Preferences?"

"Check in regularly, if you don't I'll come looking," Thul replies.

"Sounds good to me." Rafe sets his laser rifle and its (disconnected) power pack on the counter next to Thul. "Please take care of that for me, Colonel; I don't think the landing bay's about to be attacked by a Bothlemian Ur-Hog." He turns to Rigo. "I'm carrying a gausspistol with smart tranqs right now, and I don't think I'll need anything more lethal for guarding an airlock, do you?"

"HAH!" exclaims Thul. "I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if the landing bay WERE attacked by an Ur-Hog!"

"Fine," Rigo says. "Then Mister Berana and I can help out with the cargo checks. Berana?"

Thul picks up the power pack and sets it into the charging rack and sets the function selector to "trickle."

He looks back at the laser rifle set down by Rafe "You want me to do a 'Thul Special' on this?"

"Perhaps we should wait a few minutes before dispersing," Tar says. "The boss might want a face to face before we head out. Although we might want to detail one of us to take the airlock, not that I doubt Pater's abilities. No use starting a bug hunt and have it interupted, you'ld HAVE to start all over again. "

Tar pauses, gives a thoughtful look and says "PATER, I presume you will inform us the minute Major Farouk comes into sight?"

_Of course, mister Berana._ replies PATER. _I will advise you the moment Major Farouk arrives._

"We have no idea when that will be, and I, for one, don't like to sit on my thumbs when there's work to..." Rigo begins, but breaks off as, almost without breaking stride, PATER continues, _Mister Berana? Major Farouk has just arrived outside the ship and is boarding the Elissa via the starboard number three cargo ramp._

"Well, that solves that," Rigo says, and takes advantage of the interval before Farouk reaches the Armoury to fill a second snub gun with Aslan tranqs and fit it's holster on the back of his belt.

Moments later, Lazer swings into the armoury, and lands in the console chair. "Hi, y'all. Sorry I'm late, I'll be with you in minute. PATER, give me bridge holo, please.

<< Captain 'Vouf. G'morning. Apologies for my tardiness. >>

<< I trust you have a good reason, Major, >> comes 'Vouf's voice.

<< I was just at Long Term Storage, to get my old battledress since we couldn't get those shiny new sets out of the Alcyon impound. They were late opening so I went over to Stores, to see if I could pry any more tranqs out of them than we managed to requisition yesterday--no dice. Seems some kind of zoological expedition left last week, cleaned them right out. Hope we don't need more than we've got.

<< Anyway, those clowns at Storage had lost their heavy lifter so I couldn't get my crate, but they said they'd get it over here on a truck-- swore it'd get here within the hour. We'll see.

<< With all that, I still would have been on time, but I got stopped for *speeding*. >> Lazer shrugs theatrically. << What can you do? >>

On the Bridge, Aiwi notes this last bit of information with slitted eyes.

Lazer continues. << Anyway, have Milden's techs arrived yet for the bug sweep? >>

<< All done, hours ago. I want your people to do ANOTHER. I trust Milden as much as I trust Rachel Turnskaad. Bridge out. >>

<< I couldn't agree more. Farouk out. >>

Lazer spins in his chair, to face the rest of Security. He takes a deep breath, then begins. "Welcome back for Take Two. Welcome aboard to you new guys, glad to have you with us. I'm Farouk, you can call me Lazer. We'll have a meeting later to discuss work assignments and so on, but for right now, we have work to do."

"Hmm. There's a face missing. Pater, has Kor reported on board?"

_Mister Kor is in her cabin._

"Patch me through then, please.

<< Mister Kor, this is Chief Farouk. Please report to the armoury. I have work for you. Farouk out. >>

Activating the comm channel Vanessa replies with "I'm on my way." Gathers up her hand comp and communicatior and heads out the door to the grav-lift.

"We have inventory to check. Since you've started already, it's yours, Thul. Awntremont, you get to help him.

Rafe smiles lopsidedly and nods agreement.

"More importantly, we have to do a bug sweep. The gear should be in here somewhere..." He stands and looks around. "There. Berana, you want to crack the boxes and see what we've got?" Lazer starts clearing cases of hastily-loaded powercells and ammunition from a table, to make workspace.

"Sure thing." Tar walks over to the indicated boxes, opens them and notes the contents.

Rigo speaks up: "Major, we have a request from the Loadmaster for security personel to check out cargo, and Bridge also thinks it would be a good idea to post a guard in the airlock."

Lazer stops sorting boxes, and looks up puzzled. "What? Surely PATER's as good a sentry as any... Hunh. Let me check. PATER, get me the bridge please.

<< Bridge, this is Farouk. I understand we have a request for a sentry at the personnel airlock. Requesting clarification, please. Over. >>

In the middle of analyzing PATER's reports, Akhouw snaps off a curt answer. << Captain's orders, Mister Farouk. Which word don't you understand? >>

<< Ah. My apologies, Exec Akhouw. It is an honour to serve. Farouk out. >>

_Bridge diagnostics have been completed, commander. I show one level five fault in communications firmware for the backup laser transceiver, and one level two fault in navigation subsystems firmware. Test data batteries presented to the stellar acquisition and classification firmware produced five plausable but incorrect results._

_helm subsystems, command repeaters, and bridge displays show an aggregate of two level five, and seven level six faults._

_Screen and sensor subsystems show no detectable anomalies and fault prediction shows both to be well within standard operational tolerances._

_Weapon subsystems show six level four faults, and one level one fault. Missile turret number eight is showing intermittent delays in the slew and traversal controller response. Fault prediction suggests that the target acquisition and tracking subsystem for that turret will fail within twenty five minutes of continuous use._

_A detailed list of those faults of catagory four and lower are as follows..._

After completing presentation of the list of minor faults, PATER concludes, _The potential failure in number eight missile turret is the most serious fault detected, but does not constitute a threat to the completion of the mission. The potential for significant navigation error due to the navigation firmware defect is great enough to warrent immediate attention._

Akhouw grumbles as he reviews the fault list for a minute before he begins to crisply issue orders, turning first to Zben. "Mister Blaine, note the level five fault in communications firmware and schedule it for correction." He taps at his console. "PATER, copy a list of all helm subsystem, command repeater, and bridge display faults to Crew Chief Aiwi's account, including the navigation firmware fault."

He turns to where Aiwi and Nishu are still babbling about those arcane matters that only navigators understand. His voice cuts through their conversation. "Crew Chief Aiwi, a list of all faults in bridge systems has been copied to your account. A level two fault has been detected in navigation subsystem firmware; please see to it that this is corrected promptly and schedule the minor faults for appropriate action, if you please."

Aiwi calls up a menu of the problems on her local display. "Kai! At once, Commander. Mister Neriika, see to the calculations; I shall repair the fault at once. PATER, authorization Beta: unlock the access to the forward avionics compartment and direct me to the faulty firmware." She picks up a small, elegantly-tooled satchel from the floor by her chair, and slips through the opened panel in the nose of the ship.

Another tap at the console. "PATER, copy Chief Engineer Munro a list of all weapons faults." A comm channel opens. << Chief Engineer Munro, this is Commander Akhouw. You have been sent a copy of all weapons system faults by PATER. See to it that the level one fault in missile turret eight is attended to immediately, and schedule appropriate action for the level four faults. >>

_Commander,_ interrupts PATER, _Chief engineer Munro has just ended a twenty nine hour tour of duty and is currently sleeping in her quarters. With your permission, I will delay transmission of your order until zero ten thirty hours. I have orders to wake her at that time._

Akhouw glares at the ceiling. "Negative, PATER. Notify the EOW immediately and inform Engineer Munro of the situation when you wake her at 1030."

_That is not possible, commander._ replies PATER. _Engineering crew members have only recently begun to report for duty, and no engineer of the watch is currently assigned to stand duty. All engineering functions are in yard idle mode and no engineering crew is required for such a state._

If looks could fry circuitry, PATER would be a mass of molten metal. Mounting irritation and exasperation are reflected in the angry twitching of Akhouw's ears, and a slight increase in his vocal level. "List all crew qualified to perform the repairs to missile turret eight. NOW."

_The following crewmembers are qualified to perform the necessary repairs._ replies PATER instantly. _Crew chief Aiwi, doctor Aolrkhea', captain Bhyarrvouf, mister Grey, mister haut-Frieder, mister Hur'Shruvan, mister MacLaeran, mister Merkle, doctor Morser, chief engineer Munro, mister Silvmane, and doctor van der Merwe. Of those listed, mister MacLaeran, mister Silvmane, doctor Morser, and doctor van der Merwe are not yet aboard. Mister Hur'Shruvan may experience access difficulties due to his size._

_If I might make a suggestion from the list, commander._ continues PATER, _Neither mister haut-Frieder nor mister Grey are currently involved in essential shipboard duties. They appear to offer the best choice at the moment._

Akhouw relaxes, very slightly, in his chair as his ears twitch once more and are still. "Excellent suggestion, PATER." He snaps off the words with emphasis. "Contact both Mister haut-Frieder and Mister Grey. Inform them of the fault in missile turret eight and that they are to proceed to repairs, *immediately!*. Inform Chief Engineer Munro of these events when she awakens."

He briefly stares at the ceiling once more before turning his attention back to the holo-monitors, muttering something about female-programmed computers....

_Done, sir._ About thirty seconds pass, then Akhouw's commdot pings.

<< Bridge, from haut-Frieder. Orders received and understood, complying at once. Out. >>

Another few seconds, then:

<< C'mander, this's Morgan Grey. I'm en route to Turret Eight, chop chop. You'll get a report from me when the turret's back online. Over an' out. >>

A sleek, grey grav-limo glides up to the docking berth and comes to a rest precisely in front of the loading ramp. Silence. A puff of airseals breaking is heard. A small cloud of condensation rises from the Turnskaad corporate logo stenciled on the side of the limo. Moments later, an empty bottle of lag phroaig whiskey tumbles to the ground, as the logo itself rises smoothly from the limbo. A bare (and apparently female) hand reclaims the bottle. There is a muffled shout, and the logo slides back down.

Sixty seconds pass. The rear section of the limo slides open. Two large, oblong boxes slide out and float up the ramp. Moments later, the boxes return to the limo.

The logo rises upward again, followed instantly by by the rapidly moving form of Doctor DaSilva, clad in black drawstring pants, slippers, and a white t-shirt. Once safely inside the warmth and comfort of the Elissa, DaSilva pauses and shivers, then turns to a porthole. The front of his t-shirt is revealed, bearing a large, red-orange-grey mushroom cloud and the slogan, 'Visit Scenic Asmodeus'. DaSilva waves through a porthole at the limo, which rises smoothly into the air and departs.

DaSilva rubs his bleary eyes for a moment, then rummages inside a capacious pocket and extracts a vial. Popping the top off, he shakes a pill into his palm. Looks at it. Looks at the vial. Shakes two more pills out. Swallows them. DaSilva turns and addresses the airlock intercom: "This is Doctor DaSilva. Permission to come aboard? And... could somebody provide me with a copy of the deck plans, properly marked with room designations?"

_Permission granted, Doctor DaSilva,_ comes a smooth, calm male voice from the intercom. _Deck plans are available via download at your convenience from any data terminal. Your cabin is 3-8; proceed up to Deck 3 via the lift behind you, and your cabin will be forward and to your right. Doctor Yorblin has called a meeting of Medical staff for 1100 hours._

DaSilva groans. "1100 hours? What IS it with this crew, you're all so disgustingly energetic in the morning. No, never mind, that's just a rhetorical question. Please notify Doctor Yorblin that I'll be there. Who is this, anyway? Mister..." a rapid search of his memories, "Blaine? I'll be settling into my cabin. Oh, could somebody tell the purser or loadmaster there's a sizable shipping module down here - handle with care, it's medical equipment - to be moved up to sick bay. Thank you."

_This is not Mister Blaine,_ the smooth voice replies. _My name is PATER. I am the artificial intelligence coordinating all systems aboard the Elissa. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Doctor DaSilva._ A polite pause. _I have informed Mister Merkle of the nature and destination of your medical cargo. Welcome aboard._

DaSilva staggers over to his luggage. He begins to bend over, stops abruptly and decides it'd be safer to just sit down. Rummaging through one of the cases, he extracts a standard hand computer, and downloads the deck plans. "Right. Okay, luggage, this way."

Three steps into the corridor, DaSilva stops and looks back at his luggage. "Damn, that's right." DaSilva walks back to his luggage and begins to laboriously drag it along the corridor, muttering something that sounds like "...damned third-class accomodations..."

DaSilva looks up from his luggage in surprise. "PATER? From the Alcyon? Pleased to meet you. I heard something about you, but they've been keeping you under wraps until now, right? Wonder how they managed to get Turnskaad to send you on this trip.

_That would fall under the purview of captain Bhyarrvouf, doctor DaSilva._ PATER replies. _He negotiated with the board of inquiry as some length to arrange my transfer._

"Uhm... PATER, what exactly does 'coordinating all systems aboard the Elissa' mean?"

_I am responsible for all normally manned functions aboard this vessel._ explains PATER. _The Aeolus-class jump tender requires a crew of ninety three under normal conditions. During this voyage, the ship will only contain forty three crew members. In addition to overseeing the functions of the standard onboard control systems, I serve as replacement and substitute for the remaining unfilled fifty positions._

"I see..." DaSilva pauses and lets his luggage thump to the floor. "What in the way of," He glances at the comm, and absent-mindedly reaches up to check his psi shield, "... monitoring equipment do you have access to, pertaining to the crewed areas of the ship?"

_I have control of all secure-cams aboard this ship._ replies PATER. _All public compartments and vital areas of the ship are monitored in the broad-spectrum audio and video range constantly. Radiation and gas sensors aboard ship are also monitored at all times._

"Public areas, hm?" DaSilva sighs as he relaxes momentarily, before standing to unpack his bags. "What about private areas? I realize we have to make some sacrifices to safety, but how private is my privacy? Particularly after what I've heard about the last expedition..."

_Under shipboard security protocols, I am not authorized to distribute information on this subject without direct permission from either the captain or the chief of security._ replies PATER.

"What? Shipboard security protocols? How exactly does shipboard security relate to my desire to know how much my privacy is being invaded, and how I can ensure that it is not invaded?"

_The answer to the meta-question you have just posed,_ PATER says, _Is of equal classification level to the question it concerns._

DaSilva hesitates momentarily, the continues, "If you cannot answer this, I must insist on being put in touch with the chief of security immediately. I realize that he or she - or it - has his, her, or its hands or whatever full right now, but I consider this a critical matter."

_Major Farouk is in the Armory,_ PATER says. _Would you like me to open a commdot channel?_

"Please do so. Mr. Farouk, this is doctor DaSilva. I require an explanation regarding this 'classificiation' of my questions regarding my privacy."

<< What? What classification of which questions? >>

"Please do not waste my time, Mr. Farouk. I am referring to the 'shipboard security protocols' which PATER says prevent him from answering my questions, questions about whether or not my privacy will be violated, and under what strictures. PATER says he requires permission from yourself to answer these questions. Please grant him this permission."

<< Doctor DaSilva, I haven't the vaguest idea of what you're talking about. If you want to know whether you can be absolutely assured at any time that PATER isn't looking at you, the answer is no. Period. If you want to know conditions under which there is a more than miniscule chance of anyone OTHER than PATER looking at you, that's almost as easy. What you do in your quarters is no one's business but yours, unless you're engaged in activity that could be deemed by PATER to be dangerous to the Elissa or her crew, like brewing plague virus in your aftershave or handloading frag grenades. Your camera logs cannot be accessed by anyone other than myself, the Captain, and the Execs, and we have much better things to do. OUT. >>

DaSilva sighs, and makes a mental note to speak to the Captain later. "Thank you, Mr. Farouk. Out."

DaSilva extracts a small piece of luggage, custom-sewn from some species of black leather, checks the medical supplies and equipment inside, and sets it within grabbing distance of his bunk. It is followed by a small, obviously highly-crafted wooden case bearing the logo of Sunshar and Ukenda. DaSilva sets the case on his bunk, and eyes the unbroken seal.

After a moment or two of puttering with clothing and extracting a bewildering variety of t-shirts and an endless stream of black, drawstring pants from his luggage, DaSilva removes a small black cube, roughly 5cm on a side, from his luggage and places it several feet from his bunk. Returning to his luggage, he extracts a largish, dense plastic mallet. He sets it between his bunk and the cube, then turns and regards the wooden case and unbroken seal again.

With a grim shake of his head and a muttered, "Suppose I'll have to open it sooner or later...", DaSilva breaks the seal and lifts the lid to reveal a finely crafted gauss pistol. Popping a holocrystal into a small handcomp, he pulls up the title screen: "You and Your Gauss Pistol: Care, Maintenance and Use". Selecting the second chapter, he reads through it and checks the components in the case. "Barrel, assembly, clip, spare clip, recharger, ammunition... have to check with the purser about getting ammunition... looks like it's all here." DaSilva extracts a few more odd accoutrements from his luggage, then collapses onto his bunk. A muffled "10:50 wakeup call." is answered by a the black cube with a display on one face, in small, glowing letters: ARMED. The letters fade away.

Arriving at the armoury and seeing some activity Vanessa keeps her introduction short and her posture a trifle too formal "Hello, I'm Kor. What do you need me to do?"

Without looking up from some personnel files, Lazer replies, "Will be needing you in a minute for a bug sweep, as soon as I sort out some jobs. PATER, patch me through to Horne.

<< J.J., this is Farouk. Please report to the personnel airlock for sentry duty. Sidearm rules are the same as last time. Farouk out. >>

<< J.J. Here, sorry I was late, really tied one on last night 'n missed my wakeup call. Roger on the sentry duty, on my way, Horne, out. >>

"Now Merkle, please.

<< Loadmaster, this is Security Chief Farouk. I understand you've requested some personnel to check incoming cargo. We have a full bug sweep planned once the loaders have left and the bays are sealed. How many men do you need now, and what should they be equipped for? Farouk over. >>

Pulling up his deck plans once more, Merkle replies, "Good Morning Sir.

"The bug sweep sounds good...you folks can wait 'til then if you've more pressing matters. Hold 3's cargo door on Deck 8, and Hold 2's door on Deck 4 are open, and I've pretty much been able to keep an eye on them, but there are a lot of flunkies around and I wouldn't want anyone slipping into to places where they shouldn't be."

"As far as security equipment, whatever you deem necessary to discourage any rubber-necking. By the way, I hope to have the final load completed by 1400 hours. Does this fit your schedule?"

<< I don't have any problem with that. As far as watching the holds goes, PATER, are your cameras adequate? Do you have the attention to spare? >>

_As of now, I have 100% coverage of all decks with significant camera-to-camera overlap,_ PATER responds. _As the loading of the Decks proceeds, I will advise you and Mister Merkle of dead spots in the coverage area as they appear. I have the processing power to watch the necessary security systems at all times, as of now, and do not anticipate enough of a resource drain between now and Jump to alter that situation. Will that be sufficient?_

<< Fine, thanks PATER. Mister Merkle, I don't have the men to spare to be posting enough guards to cover your holds, but we can certainly look into anything funny. Don't hesitate to beep us. Farouk out. >>

"Thanks for everything, Major. Merkle out."

Lazer looks up from the security console, where he had been standing while sorting out the demands on Security. "PATER, please ask Hfolraw and Azani to come down to the armoury."

_At once, major Farouk._ replies PATER.

<< Major, Hfolraw here. I'm on my way now, sir. >>

Lazer sits back in the console chair and stretches. "While we're waiting for Azani and Hfolraw, I may as well mention that I'll be posting a formal duty roster sometime tomorrow. I'll be taking the C-shift tonight, so you don't have to worry about that for tonight, at least." He grins.

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