The Second Senior Officers Meeting

Posted on Sunday February 16th, 2020 @ 9:54pm by Commander Kanaka Shakura & Captain Franklin Johnson & Lieutenant Commander Canaan Serine & Lieutenant Colonel Phoebe Graydon & Lieutenant Commander Freya Mannerheim & Lieutenant Commander Karn Karn & Lieutenant J'Loni Mo'Bri Daughter House L'Keth & Lieutenant Nealey Brinsley & Lieutenant Hibiki Zh'kallas & Lieutenant Commander Nivora T'vek & Lieutenant Commander T'Pri & Lieutenant JG Sydney Allen & Gunnery Sergeant Maximilian Pfaffenheim & Commodore Gregory Paladin & Lieutenant Oscar Vladinchi & Master Chief Petty Officer Charles Payne

9,247 words; about a 46 minute read

Mission: Shakedown Cruise
Location: USS Poseidon; Deck 6 - Forward Briefing Room
Timeline: Day 003 - 0530 Hours
Tags: Post-Incident, Senior Officers' Meeting, Pavan Investigation

[ON]

Once again, Commander Franklin Johnson greeted the empty forward briefing room; isolated to thoughts and notions of insecurity due to recent events, his mind felt drained and almost absent of the will to proceed. It was a fragile emotional state, one in which had him depleted of motivation, but somehow he managed. He had meant to go see Lieutenant T'Vek about this but he was afraid that rumours would spill out. They had just endured one of the most tragic recent events in the Poseidon's history, a practical ill omen if any traditionalist had catalogued their events up to that very moment. Losing a good officer and leader was not something that simply drifted away in such a short amount of time.

This was partially the reason why he had been so reserved with personal logs. While it was true that keeping a clear record of the development of this situation was necessary, he didn't feel it wise to allow himself the necessary (or perhaps unnecessary) process to let out his misgivings and fears. He was now a commanding officer, one of the newest and freshest, and to honestly tell the computer through his virtual worded journal that he doubted his ability to follow through with that command after these events wouldn't help anyone, let alone himself. This was what Franklin was fighting currently, a deeply entrenched personal battle with the demons that virtually gripped his being, and one he struggled tooth and nail to keep secret from everyone else.

A soft tremble displayed itself as he had his hands behind his back, one hand gripped the wrist of the other, and that hand freely trembling behind him. His eyes were focused outward, towards the stars, and the now visible visage of Starbase 99 with a plethora of keenly visible starships and smaller dots indicating further instances. The stress was going to kill him if he didn't get a hold of it, he decided. A gentle sigh escaped his lips, eyes closing, mind focusing. Turning, he examined the room.

Like last time, sixteen chairs dotted the room. Of those sixteen, eight surrounded the oddly shaped, almost rectangular meeting table that resembled the furniture styles of the 2300's; an inlet portion for the Captain to sit with adjacent screen, with the rest of the Senior Staff surrounding it. Along the wall, eight chairs were placed, four on each end of the room. Since their last encounter with this specific briefing room, yeomen and other operations officers had come in to moderately decorate the spartan room. There was now potted plants on the two four corners, with a wide mural painting to one side depicting the USS Poseidon as it participated in Operation Return in the Dominion war, the words "Operation Return: Never Forget Those Who Served" painted in stark white that complimented the mural down on the bottom; the entire piece a fantastic display of replication capabilities, no doubt taken from actual records, the Poseidon herself was shown tilted starboard with visible battle damage along the bridge and stern areas of the ship but still fighting a Cardassian ship in the distance, firing phasers and photon torpedoes as she sailed past a friendly Galaxy-class starship.

Franklin found himself musing over the image, his mind finally finding something to use to crawl its way out of the midst of his internal struggle and depression. His recollection of the ships history took to the fore, and he recalled that in this specific event - if he wasn't mistaken - Captain Henry T. Paladin had been killed by the visible damage on the bridge section and Commander T'Miak, his First Officer, had assumed command for the first time. The Vulcan First Officer had gone on to save the ship and crew and finish the mission.As a matter of fact, as he thought on this, he remembered he had been reading on the then-Commander T'Miak and his service history to that point. Ever since their new Vulcan arrival, Lieutenant T'Pri the ships new Chief Intelligence Officer, had come on board he had become fascinated in T'Miak's role in the evolution of the Poseidon. If he wasn't mistaken, Commander T'Miak would later go on to be promoted to full Captain, going on to command a newer line of Starfleet ship class.

So lost was he in recollection of his readings that he hadn't heard the entry door slide open and closed. Further, he hadn't heard the footsteps behind him, closer. A brief pause as a voice softly spoke to his side, a slight jolt visible on Franklin's form but quickly subdued as his mind pieced the voice with that of a trusted friend.

"My Uncle died in that battle," Gregory Paladin said, eyeing the mural. "Henry Tiberius Paladin, a great man. He got me into the service. At the time of his death I had barely started my training at the Academy. He was a heavy inspiration for me. One that led me to eventually command the ship."

Franklin had been silent as he admired the art piece, turning his head slightly as acknowledged the Commodore.

"Kinda like you and me?" asked Franklin, a small smile playing his expression then.

"Almost," Gregory replied, coyly, a slight grin present. Gregory turned briefly to look at the opposing wall, seeing nothing of note stationed there. He nodded to Franklin as the two would turn to gaze out at the visage of Starbase 99 through the briefing room observation windows.

"Hell of a first start to a mission," Franklin said, his expression changing slightly. "I figured it'd go more along the lines of your first run. I didn't imagine we'd have a potential sabotage on our hands."

"To be fair, Franklin, you're doing quite well with all this," Gregory replied after a brief silence. The Commodore brought his hand to his chin, rubbing it as he appraised the Commander briefly, turning to return to gaze outward of the ship. "You really are. And two officer's meetings to boot. Greater number than mine. Nothing to be ashamed of, though in the end we'll find out what really happened."

"What about the mission?" Franklin asked, glancing to the Commodore. "We were set back a few days. What about our delivery?"

Gregory scoffed, waving a hand in dismissal. "Already took care of. Starfleet Command is kept up to date, especially considering the event that transpired and proximity to their Starbase. One of the reasons T'Pri is here, mind you, which was a specific requirement from Command. Regardless, the back channels have been used, we've informed the colony of the delay and they've relayed they still have plenty of supplies to last them till our arrival. Probably a good month after our expected arrival date. Should give us some wiggle room, not much though, especially considering the severity and need for what we got."

"I'll make sure to bring that up then," Franklin remarked. "After Pavan died I'm not sure we're all on the same page right now. I want to make sure we are. Felt like we lost some momentum there."

"You did," agreed Gregory. "Not much though. The reaction of your crew was absolutely fantastic. I got compliments from above regarding the reports and dedication to detail. It's not everyday that cadets are forced into a stressful situation like this and come out on top. Take it as a good sign, an indication that they're ready for this."

Franklin sighed, head lowering briefly as he closed his eyes, shaking his head and looking back outward with a smile. "Yeah," he agreed. "Yeah I see that now. I needed to hear that."

A soft pat was heard as Gregory clapped Franklin's shoulder. They locked eyes and for a very brief moment, the Commodore saw the pain. They shared a nod and, after a moment of hesitation, a hug. Mentor and Mentee stood there, briefly still, embracing as friends, embracing because the Mentor understood the struggle of his Mentee. They parted, a nod of recognition shared, Franklin regarding Gregory highly in that moment, recalling the prior events that led him to admire the man so much, almost like an Uncle he never had himself. A brief nod by the Commander in recognition of the event.

"For whatever it's worth," Franklin said, "I'm glad you're here Gregory. I've been struggl-"

Gregory raised a hand, cutting Franklin off. At first the Commander gave an expression of baffled surprise, but seeing Gregory's confident smile - warm and understanding - he closed his mouth and stood there, eyeing the Commodore.

"You don't have to say it," Gregory assured. "I know, I saw it, and I'm not going to pry or force you to share it. I don't want you to share it, not now, not when you're about to face your crew. Just know that I am extremely proud of you, Franklin. If you were my son, I'd be a very proud father. We'll talk more on this later, alright?"

A smile, then a nod. "Alright, thanks Greg."

The two then shared the smile, returning to gaze outward at the visage of Starbase 99. Close by, an Excelsior-class starship drifted past, the fighters softly drifting close to the Poseidon as their pilots admired the old ship from the past.

Lieutenant Commander Shakura was the first to arrive for the Senior Officers' Meeting. She was punctual and arrived almost on the second of when they had agreed; her face carried a calm expression but her eyes communicated a great seriousness and determination. Arguably, it had been her impetus that had eventually led to this meeting being called; she had been very stern to both the Commander and the Commodore in the aftermath of what had happened, but not in an act of anger or bitterness. She, just as much as the two of them, wanted to set the record straight and hold the crew together. Things had certainly stabilised in the past few days since the incident, but with their original mission still yet to be fulfilled, they all knew there could be no further delay.

"Commander, Commodore." She nodded to them both as she approached her seat at the table, immediately beside that of the First Officer. For the time being she remained standing, one hand behind her back as the other carried her first green tea of the day. Looking to Commander Johnson, she could sense that he still felt deeply insecure, but to his credit he was putting on a very brave face. "You've done well to call this meeting, Commander. It will help both us as Senior Officers and demonstrate our cohesion to the rest of the crew, and help get us back on track."

"No doubt," the Commander replied, unusually vacant in replied as both Gregory and he watched the final group of fighters fly past, along with the final visual of the rear nacelle of the Excelsior. Franklin took in a deep breath, turning. The Commodore remained trained to the visage of Starbase 99. "I'm sure things will make greater sense later on," the Commander concluded finally, approaching the table.

"Please, sit," he invited to his Second Officer as he himself would sit at his position, at the fore of the table, nearest to the built in monitor that he casually turned on its support axis to face him. He eyed his notes for the morning.

Kana nodded and obliged her Commanding Officer, taking her seat. While he glanced over his notes, the Chief Counsellor's gaze rested on the Commodore while his back was still turned and looking out at the Starbase. Since the conversation that she had with him in the Captain's Ready Room a couple of nights ago, both she and Gregory seemed to be coming to more of an understanding between each other - particularly in light of events concerning Canaan - though she was still convinced there were things which he was not being entirely truthful about. For the time being, she had no choice but to give him some benefit of the doubt.

Phoebe was next to walk in, having handed over the bridge to one of the Junior Officers. She smiled as she walked in, seeing the assembled Command Staff. "Morning all. Anyone want a drink?" She asked, heading straight to the replicator. She was finishing up the night shift so was feeling a little tired.

"Number One!" greeted Franklin, he smiled back. "Yeah, how about a sweet tea? How's the bridge?"

"Aye sir, one sweet tea coming up. Still in one piece...for now." She replied with a wink. She replicated the Sweet Tea for Franklin, and a Black Coffee for herself. She placed the drinks on the table and took her seat.

Kana acknowledged her First Officer with a polite nod and a smile. Following the meeting she would be having breakfast with her and her daughter Chloe, in a very subtle form of therapy intended to be the beginning of addressing Phoebe's concerns for her daughters shyness. The Chief Counsellor was not too concerned, but at Phoebe's insistence she had agreed to have the meeting, if only to calm a worried mother's concerns. Kana could appreciate her intentions; they were certainly more noble than her mother had ever been to her.

Franklin took the offered tea, nodding happily at Phoebe. He sipped gently as he waited and gazed at his screen.

Lieutenant T'Pri entered, looked around. She didn't know many people yet and she really wasn't one to mingle at least least without a purpose. Small talk seemed illogical. She was perfectly friendly for a Vulcan, which was to say a bit stand offish. Still personal interaction had never been her strong suite and she liked to think that she had mellowed a bit during the war. She had a lot of things in common with her fellow crew mate's and looked for ways to fit in, without making it look like she was trying to fit in. Only another Vulcan would be able to tell the difference. So far T'Pri hadn't found another Vulcan assigned to this ship. She strode to the replicator and ordered a Tarkalian tea and then took a seat.

As T'Pri took a seat, it took Franklin by slight surprise. He looked up from his screen, the illumination of it wafting off his expression as his eyes glanced upward. His expression turned pleasant.

"Lieutenant T'Pri, very nice to see you again," Franklin greeted. "I hope you have been settling in well? Any problems?"

"No Sir, I had my things moved over from the base and the quartermaster assigned me a cabin on Deck 4. I have not had an opportunity to walk the ship and tour it. But I do look forward to the opportunity." T'Pri replied.

"I'm not expecting anything after this meeting, so maybe we can tour it together?" Franklin inquired, a sincere tone to his voice. "I can also assign someone else or leave you to tour yourself, if you prefer."

"Most Kind. I would enjoy that, Sir" T'Pri said.

Franklin smiled, nodding back at his Chief Intelligence Officer. He resumed glancing at his computer.

Canaan walked into the forward briefing room, data slate and stylus in hand. Although his professional appearance was impeccable, there were dark circles under either eye. The Lieutenant's fare skin emphasised the discoloration, evidence of another sleepless night.

He approached the replicator, ordering a hot lemon tea with honey. Upon retrieving the beverage, Canaan approached the table, finding his place directly beside Kana. The Lieutenant placed the beverage and slate down, offering a friendly nod to the senior officers assembled so far.

"Good morning." He greeted them kindly before slipping into the chair.

Turning her attention towards Canaan, whom last she'd seen in his quarters following his panic attack from yesterday, Kana gave a warm smile. She noticed the bags under his eyes, but chose simply to make a mental note of them. While she had excused him from his official duties for at least another day, it was probably a good idea for him to be at the meeting. "Good Morning, Lieutenant. I'm glad to see you today."

Nealey entered the room and briefly scanned around for a seat. There weren't many left so after getting herself a much needed cup of tea from the replicator the Australian sat in her chosen seat and greeted those who were present.

"Hello everyone" Nealey said.

"Lieutenant's Nealey, Serine, welcome to both of you," greeted the Commander. A pleasant smile as he resumed his slow appreciation of his sweet tea, focusing back on the screen before him.

For his part, Gregory paid close attention to Canaan. There was an exchange of smiles, at least on Gregory's behalf towards his mostly private lover. The Commodore paid respect to the professional distance, not going farther than that.

Canaan's gaze lingered in Gregory's for a beat longer than was customary, yet shared only between them, lest someone acutely observant of their sustained eye contact. His head dipped ever so slightly, offering a soft nod toward the Commodore with the subtlest of smiles. Although his rosy cheeks deepened in colour, one wouldn't have guessed as to why.

Kana noticed the exchange - perhaps only because she was aware of their entanglement - but did nothing to outwardly acknowledge it. As it was their wish, she would respect the want to keep it a private affair, although she felt it would be better in the long term if they were more open.

"Thank you, Captain." He replied kindly.

Karn was the next to swagger in as he greeted the command staff and gave the sharpest salute he could muster.

"Commodore, Captain! I have completed my initial investigation and am ready to report!", he stated handing a PADD over to the Captain.

He waited for a moment as if asking permission to give the report now or if he should wait until the rest of the senior staff arrived.

Maximilian stepped through the door shortly after. He surveyed the room, with an unmoving expression as usual, gave his best Marine salute to the already assembled staff, and walked over to the replicator. "Computer, one cup of Arrabica coffee." Taking a cup of the black coffee seconds later, he sat down at his assigned seat.

"Let's make it during the meeting, Mister Karn," replied Franklin as he gave a firm nod to the Staff Sergeants salute. He greeted Karn with a smile. "Go ahead and get yourself a refreshment, it might take a bit until everyone assembles."

Taking the pad, he nodded to Karn, mumbling, "Thank you," before glimpsing at it and sitting back in his chair.

The Commodore made brief eye contact with Canaan again, remembering their talk from earlier in the morning. He would make a note to meet with him after this meeting. Cautiously, he glanced away, not noticing the interaction prior between the two - however subtle - had been picked up by the Chief Counsellor.

J'Loni arrived, PADD in hand, worried about the engine core of the starboard nacelle. It needed new magnetic coils. Not knowing how much time they would be staying here and if she could get them in time to install, test and make sure they were done before the Poseidon leaves. "Morning all". she said and sat in her usual spot.

"Good Morning, Chief Engineer J'Loni," Franklin managed, despite the mountain of notes he was now gazing at for the meeting. "How's the Poseidon humming today?"

"Engines are humming along nicely except I am worried about the starboard nacelle. It needs new magnetic coils. I want to get them changed asap. Other than that everything is good," J'Loni said smiling.

"Is that so?" replied Franklin, now attentive to the Chief Engineer. "I'm actually reviewing your report right now, I'm glad you clarified it. How long do you estimate repairs may take if we hold in the bay? Have you contacted the Starbase Engineering staff?"

"Twenty-four hours, no more. My people are already working on it with the Starbase engineers. We should be ready to go in a day," J'Loni spoke confidently.

Neteri entered the the briefing room silently. She was still slightly upset but slowly accepting what happened and was dealing with it. "Morning all", she said softly taking her seat quickly. Neteri's face looked calm and placid but it was anything but that. She had pilots to deal with and she knew she had to stay focused in order to teach her crews.

Franklin nodded at J'Loni. "Excellent news, but off the record, keep an eye on whatever those repairs or replacements they make."

Smiling as he turned his attention to the new arrival, the Commander waved. "Welcome, Lieutenant! Glad to see you again."

The doors opened once again to reveal Freya entering the room. Smartly and indeed militarily, she stepped in and stood to attention in lieu of giving a salute. "Morning everyone," she said, before swiftly getting a cup of coffee from the replicator, and taking a seat next to Lieutenant Brinsley.

Looking up again as he had just began to resume his reading, he made a polite have-wave gesture in greeting to Freya. "Lieutenant, welcome!" Franklin offered, quickly resuming his reading as Freya had sat.

Hibiki entered silently. It wasn't every it day she was invited to a senior briefing. However by the look of the rooms layout, a few of the other assistant chiefs would be joining them too. She politely nodded towards the two command officers before taking a seat just behind Karn.

Behind Hibiki, T'vek entered. The Chief Medical Officer offering polite greetings before taking his seat.

Trailing T'vek, Lieutenant Oscar Vladinchi entered, signalling the end of those who were scheduled to attend - save for the Quartermaster. Once she was to arrive, Oscar was to seal the doors. He casually glanced towards Kanaka, eyeing the Chief Counsellor with some familiarity. His recent experience at probably reincarnation and subsequent visits to her office had been enlightening. He gave the Chief Counsellor a firm and friendly nod before concentrating forward.

Kana took note of Oscar's entrance, and returned his friendly nod. She had still been considering how to proceed with his case in the time since they had seen each other, and she felt she knew of a way forward. Before she could be sure, however, she would have to have a meeting with Lieutenant's Serine and T'vek to make sure both Medical and Science were on board.

It was at this point the doors opened. In walked a man that nobody had seen before. The man looked around the room seeing the strangers before him. He wore the uniform of a Master Chief Petty Officer. He looked until he saw what he was looking for. He walked up to Commander Johnson. Then stood at attention. " Sir, Master Chief Charles Ermey Payne reporting as ordered to assume my duties as Chief of the Boat for the USS Poseidon Sir. "

Franklin watched the new Chief of the Boat approach. As the man stood at attention, the Commander rose and adjusted his uniform. With a smile, he nodded his head, extending a hand for a shake.

"Welcome aboard Chief," Franklin said while maintaining his smile, "I just read about your transfer, and I'm very excited to have you here. Please, take a seat anywhere you like, I think we're about to begin."

" Yes Sir. Thank you sir. " Said Payne. Payne walked over the the nearest available seat and sat down after he shook the hand of his new CO

Sydney was rushing to the meeting room, as she had got held up by another meeting with her team and as she entered the room she noticed all the officers had already been seated and was waiting for her to start the meeting, giving a nod to the Commander she took a seat at the back of the room.


==== AFTER THE ROOM HAD SETTLED ====

The Commander gazed up from his computer screen, standing as he returned the nod given by his Quartermaster. Noticing all expected were in attendance, he pressed a button on the console near his computer console, the light in the room dimmed as a shade extended over the view-ports. With hands behind his back he paced around the table, quietly observing his Senior Officer's, catching a few glances, then turning toward the far wall. He was silent for a moment, pondering his next words carefully, trying to properly judge just how to articulate what he wanted to say.

"The last time we were all here," he began as he turned around slowly to face those in the room, "we began in earnest on the highest of hopes. The highest of expectations and promises brought forth to us by the Department of Academy Operations and its Director, Commodore Gregory Paladin, with whom we are thankful to have with us still."

In the middle of the table, the holoprojector lit up as the lights dimmed a bit further. Gregory had quietly pressed a button on a secret signal discussed beforehand, permitting the projector to come to life as the first image cleared and stabilized. It began with an image of the Poseidon from outside the ship, nearest the docks and moors, as it began to cast off.

"With that, I ask you all to pay heed to the feed that is playing now. I'll have more to add in a moment," Franklin quietly said, standing there to observe as well.

The feed progressed. All the events that took place during their initial shakedown, from their successful undock and unberthing to their departure and high impulse shakedown, all gloriously catalogued and recorded by Starbase 99's onboard sensors. It was a fantastical event, seeing the old Miranda-class zooming and waving as she went through the motions. Showing off not only her sleek style and hull, but also those of the careful hands that guided her and the stalwart eyes that kept vigil over any threats. The feed came to the point of the fighter launch then.

Franklin's eyes bore into the image, watching the feed from the starbase zoomed close on the Poseidon. The fighters began their launch and, almost as instantly, one exploded. The feed continued for a brief few minutes to follow the lone fighter left standing until it landed, then it ended. The holoprojector turned off, the lights brightening only slightly. Franklin took in a deep breath.

"That was the official feed provided to our investigation team, one of many, from Starbase 99," Franklin said. "The events portrayed were all experienced by everyone in this room, save perhaps for those new arrivals after the fact. In that precious time before you new arrivals, we were all down one man, a dedicated fighter pilot and officer, whose professional career would have done well to provide inspiration even for the most seasoned senior officer. You all knew him as Lieutenant Pavan, some of you knew him more closely, I knew him as one of my crew, my most trusted senior officers."

The Commander gazed downward solemnly, quietly reflecting as he tried to arrange his words appropriately. He continued momentarily after.

"We have all had three days to go through the motions," Franklin said. "Three days to mourn, three days to reflect, three days to investigate the causes and reasons behind such a horrible accident. In those three days, I've met with some of you, had heart to hearts, and had some very meaningful discussions. Most of all, I've had time to reflect on those events myself. I want to share with you something I've said to someone else during this trying time."

Quietly, Franklin turned to pace the room, eyes downward as his thoughts reflected his concentration of the moment. He continued.

"Space has always been a dangerous place. We as humans - and I'm sure those of us non-humans present can relate to what I'm about to say - have a horrible tendency to become accustomed to the luxuries we provide ourselves in this very hostile environment called outer space. It has never, and I doubt will ever, be a safe place for life. Save for those few species that specifically evolved in the confines of this extreme environment, we as humans must be careful to remember that our evolution is primarily associated with an environment of atmosphere and dynamic motion. No matter how advanced we become, how big we build the bubbles to hold that environment from which or similar to that which we evolved from, we cannot escape the fact that mere meters separate us from the void of no return."

A silent breath as he stopped midway around the table, facing those watching him now.

"Lieutenant Jonas Pavan was the most experienced, most capable of us in that regard. He had the training, the expertise, the capability and determination to face the fact of that void and adapt to the circumstances as he faced them. His career history was exemplary, his pedigree far above most I've ever viewed. Yet even he fell victim to the very thing we seek to avoid, even now, in this very room. Due to circumstances beyond his control, his fighter craft was lost, and he died undertaking his duty as a Starfleet Officer. We cannot forget that death is as equal a part to space as it is our living and breathing right at this moment. For it is by that death, the very same death that Pavan endured, that these very ships sail this vast expanse of outer space even now."

There was a slight pause as Franklin took a moment to observe the room. He continued in a softer tone.

"Lieutenant Jonas Pavan died as a Starfleet Officer, his death provided all of us a valuable lesson on the fragility of life as we know it as we seek to live it in this endless void. Through his death, others will now live, because the circumstances that led to it will now be corrected and adjusted for future pilots. His lessons on flight and experience thereof will be taught. His insights and skills will be reflected upon. Lieutenant Pavan did not die in vain, the Academy and Starfleet already saw to that much, and we as his crew must see that we take the lesson of that death to heart to ensure that we ourselves do not make that death in vain."

Another pause as he nodded to all in the room. He rubbed at his chin briefly, just a spec across his cheek as he turned to examine the table. A quiet cough as he nodded towards Karn.

"I believe our Chief of Security will have the floor to provide some insight into the accident which claimed our fellow crewman. I want to add that Lieutenant Pavan's remains and belongings have been transferred to his family per their request. There will be a Reflection held in the ship's chapel later this week, I invite all of you to share that information to those closest to Jonas and keep an open invitation for yourselves. Lieutenant Karn?"

Franklin gestured towards the Lurian, a polite smile offered as the Commander briskly made his way to his seat.

The Lurian nodded to his Commanding Officer, promptly standing and making his way to be visible to the table. He cleared his throat as he held his datapad to his side.

"As the Captain stated, Lieutenant Pavan's remains were transferred over to the station after my investigation. There were several crew members who participated in this effort and I want to personally send my thanks. Starbase 99 also sends their thanks, as with our help the final phase of the investigation can move quickly with their supervision."

Karn adjusted his posture briefly before looking at his datapad as he held it up, speaking as he read the words he had prepared.

"First and foremost, the cause. As your ships Chief of Security it is my job to ensure the safety of not only this ship but also her crew. To that end I operated under the impression that the explosion of Lieutenant Pavan's fighter was not an accident. My assigned team and I worked tirelessly in cargo bay on deck six to ascertain the appropriate cause of the accident. We quickly deduced that bad drive plasma was to blame."

Karn went silent as he looked up, seeing familiar faces from the investigation in the room, while others were absent. He gave a slow nod to the Chief Engineer before he continued.

"The Chief Engineer was quick to deduce that the drive plasma that assist the fighter functionality was contaminated and at this time we believe the contamination was due to a lack of maintenance on the fighter in this specific area. Normally, this would amount to fault on behalf of the fighter prep crew, but considering Lieutenant Pavan had his own personal fighter that he requested to personally maintain, both on file and in meeting, we can deduce that the fault itself amounts entirely to an accident. Within my best judgement, I cannot fault the fighter prep crew nor the Lieutenant for this terrible incident, only a lapse of judgement."

"However," Karn quickly added after a moment to take a breath. "It is also with the sound judgement of Chief Engineer J'Loni and myself that that we have come to the conclusion that due to Lieutenant Pavan's exemplary service and meticulous record keeping of maintenance intervals that we do not believe the deceased Lieutenant to be at fault. As his fighter had a brief layover on Starbase 99 before being loaded on the Poseidon, I agree with the assessment of the Chief Engineer that it is likely his fighter was loaded with faulty drive plasma. This assessment was given to Starbase 99 Security personnel for further review, in which while I state my suspicions of possible intentional tampering, it is also highly likely that the drive plasma itself was unknowingly going bad and therefore was missed by maintenance personnel on the starbase."

Another bit of silence as the Chief of Security ran a finger over his datapads screen, briefly glancing at some notes. His eyes focused on those present as he continued.

"My final assessment is that this was probable to a horrible accident on the part of multiple circumstances of overlooking vital steps in the maintenance process from multiple individuals, on multiple angles, including Lieutenant Pavan himself, but that there is no particular individual to blame. It was a freak accident, resulting from bad drive plasma that while probable at the time of loading on the fighter possibly appeared acceptable. This is, of course, an assumption on behalf of better thinking."

Karn slowly lowered his datapad, eyes focused on the crew as he straightened. The Lurian's demeanour was uncharacteristically serious just then.

"As for my unofficial opinion which was notated in my final report to Starbase 99. I believe there is pretense for possible sabotage, that there was enough possibility in these steps of failure for one or multiple individuals to purposely cause this accident - particularly within the interval of when the fighter was stationed on the Starbase. I have already concluded the innocence of the Poseidon crew, as no one but the Lieutenant himself touched his fighter due to our records; no one but those he approved, even then still as in those circumstances the drive plasma was not touched. It is therefore we are left with three possible conclusions, in my off the record opinion.

Either the accident is as I officially deduced as a series of unfortunate oversights, or we have an act of sabotage. The final possibility, and most remote in my opinion, is that Lieutenant Pavan had his fighter prepared to explode intentionally. Due to his service record, I have all but excluded this as a high probability. The only other alternatives are, in my professional opinion, of high merit to continue to pursue and investigate."

The Lurian glanced briefly at Franklin, nodding his head as the Commander took the signal appropriately and stood. Franklin gave Karn a pat on the shoulder as his Chief of Security returned to his seat. The Commander faced those present.

"Due to the nature of our mission," Franklin began, gesticulating gently as he spoke, "I am of the same mind as Lieutenant Karn. It is highly probable that and acceptable that the incident itself was an oversight of major proportions. As I stated in the beginning, space is dangerous, and Lieutenant Pavan accepted that danger. However, we cannot ignore the possibility of the alternatives as Lieutenant Karn hinted. As he stated clearly, while there is no evidence and purely based on his own assumptions, Lieutenant Pavan could have been killed intentionally by an unknown party. I want this to sink in with everyone today."

Being careful to glance to each face, his expression stern and serious, Franklin continued.

"Even in the Federation, there are still foreign elements that could infiltrate and cause damage unbeknown to any of us. That includes pirates and other nationalities that oppose Starfleet in general. You, as department heads, must be vigilant. Until Starbase 99 delivers their final report, and they will personally deliver it to me the moment they know, we cannot place anything off the table. Lives are at risk, as is our most precious cargo bound for lives in need of it."

A brief moment passed before he stood a bit straighter and corrected his uniform. He cleared his throat, the Commander glancing about.

"Any questions before we proceed?"

Freya looked around the room. Sabotage of a fighter, rigging it to explode just as the ship was about to leave? This almost reeked of Terran involvement. She glanced over at the Commodore, curious to see any change in his expression as the Lurian mentioned this possibility, and when Commander Franklin opened the floor for questions, she decided to speak out.

"This report is rather worrying, sir, and I am sure all of us gathered here will agree." She looked around, briefly looking every single officer in the eye before turning back to the Commander. "Frankly, Commander, I am not sure if we should depart under these circumstances. Are we certain that none of the drive plasma in the other fighters is contaminated, or any of that stored on board for refuelling? What about the ship's warp plasma?"

She shook her head. "If this was truly sabotage, and I must admit that, to me, that seems to be the logical conclusion, we are either looking at a complete idiot saboteur, or at an expert. If it was the former, we escaped a far bigger tragedy. But I fear that this may well have been but a warning."

"That's a good question," Franklin said. "Karn and his team personally inspected the ship. We're safe. The type of contamination required for that detonation is, while technical, also plausible to naturally occur over the lifetime of the plasma itself. We know no other fighters suffer from any - forgive the usage here - spoiled plasma. Neither our ship. Karn personally informed me, and I agree, that if the Lieutenant's ship had to be messed with it had to be on the Starbase."

"And also," added Franklin as he smirked at J'Loni, "I know our Chief Engineer would kill anyone that messed with the ship."

Looking at the Captain smiling, "That is an understatement. Drive plasma does not get old with time. It can be contaminated, and that contamination can live on until it is used and there goes your boom or accident, to put it bluntly", J'Loni said.

A slight chuckle, then glancing back at Freya. "To that end, we will not be holding back our voyage. We have to depart and deliver our supplies. It's nearly a three week trip there, three weeks back if we return the same way. A lot is running on the delivery of these supplies."

T'Pri listened intently. It was illogical to assume that the drive plasma had simply spoiled. Perhaps contaminated, but not spoiled. To her it did seem that there was sabotage. Drive plasma simply didn't spoil unless there was a sever engine or injector malfunction.

"Captain intelligence has no new information on this matter at this time.". T'Pri stated.

Nealey sat back and listened to the briefing in relative silence - nodding at intervals to let her colleagues know that she was indeed listening to what was being said. She was also making several notes which she hoped would assist her department carry out their role in the mission.

"Well engineering is making headway in double checking our plasma and from all reports there is nothing wrong with the warp plasma. In addition the supplies that will be stored in our cargo bays will have monitors installed to make damn sure that nothing contaminates anything in there," J'Loni said.

Neteri was hesitant in saying something. J'Loni nudged her and she relinquished finally. "Captain my people will ready to assist with CAP if needed," she said finally.

"Thank you, Lieutenant," Franklin said giving a solemn nod to Neteri. "I appreciate you volunteering. Check with the appropriate department head for the time being, I'll let them decide."

Franklin turned his attention to J'Loni, "Keep me apprised of that. I want a full report when you're able."

Turning his attention back to the table at large, he gesticulated softly in an open fashion. "Any further questions?"

Hibiki did have a question. "I do have one Captain" she spoke up. "I would think it appropriate to interview any officer onboard who is capable of manipulating or changing the plasma. If it was sabotage, we need to find if someone on the crew is responsible" she said. "I would like to conduct a list for interviews with means to back up any alibi's they may have"

"That's a very astute observation," Franklin said with a nod. "While I am not prone to automatically blaming my crew for what happened - for anything that happens - I do agree that prudence in this situation could help smooth things along."

Franklin briefly gestured towards Karn. "Get with Lieutenant Karn on the matter."

"Anyone else?" Franklin asked, after a moment.

"A most interesting chain of occurrences, and quite a convenient set," came the inevitable drawl into the yawning gulf of silence, "however I must add another coincidence to the pile, my own efforts have added perhaps uncovered more details in regards to this macabre spectacle."

T'vek paused to cast an almost condescending jade eye over the assembled, he had encountered some of them outside of these briefings thus far, but by no means most and he had yet to learn much about their competencies, and his experiences with the crew had been mixed, with several crewmen nigh convinced he was some Tal Shiar Agent and others had been polite yet promising, while others ultimately flawed.

"The condition of the remains is remarkably curious," he murmured, his tone indicating that it was almost anything but, "not in the least that they do not conform to what is on record with Starfleet medical in regards to similar incidences, I have been pursuing my own investigations, complicated as they were by the removal of said remains to the Starbase, nevertheless. I am not so easily hindered, in short his blood and body chemistry have trace remains of compounds outside the accepted norm."

"Or so I would hope," He added dismissively, "of a Starfleet Officer, this is somewhat hindered by the less than meticulous medical history I have available, it would seem comparatively, that Starfleets medical protocols are lacking in diligence," his eyes narrowed as he eyed up most of the command staff disapprovingly an arched brow and an almost imperceptible change in his expression, almost a smirk tugging at his almost impassive mask of clay with it's viridian recesses.

Franklin's eyes were fixed on T'Vek as he spoke. He had been mostly unaware of this private investigation and this was the first time he heard about it. His expression remained passive as the Romulan spoke, but as he finished, curiousness crept on its surface. His attention was fully on his Chief Medical Officer.

"Lieutenant, are you suggesting what I think you are?" he inquired carefully.

"That certain compounds and chemicals were found within the remains outside of the accepted human norm which were, after my own exacting diligence, were found, and that due to lack of protocol pertaining to regular medical checkups and centrally collated records of such, that could explain their presence," his tone almost distinctly frosty in a matter that some could consider to be combative if not for the distinct lack of ire, "then yes I believe I would be suggesting something yes, however I regret that I cannot be entirely certain, I am after all not a telepath," the drawl concluded with a wry smile at this last.

Franklin held a guffaw, maintaining posture and composure as he nodded politely. "Alright," he replied, taking a moment to examine the room then think a moment as he looked away. "I want you to continue your investigation," he finally said after those few tense moments. "I want a full report after you feel you've had plenty of time. Additionally, you might want to work with Intelligence and Science. See what you can round up with more perspectives on the case."

Nodding to himself, he glanced around. "Floor is still open, folks."

Canaan listened to each exchange, attentive to his counterpart's questions, explanations, and suppositions. T'vek's preliminary findings posed some very interesting scientific curiosities, but nothing more until he had the opportunity to dig into the Romulan's research and methodologies. In fact, thus far, nothing that Karn, Hibiki, J'Loni, or even T'vek had proposed told the Senior Officer's anything more than that these were interesting theories, yet inconclusive at best. More research was needed, and it satisfied him, for the time being, that Commander Johnson and Commodore Paladin supported this necessity. For his part, however, the Science Officer remained silent, choosing to listen first, take notes, and absorb most of what was being discussed. Although many questions roiled within in his mind, Canaan kept each to himself, instinct and past experience telling him this was no accident.

Master Chief Payne raised his hand. " Sir, May I speak? " He asked. " If I may Sir, given the potential for danger on this mission, is it wise to make this a training cruise Sir? "

"Master Chief Payne, the Poseidon is not only a training ship, but in every instance, she is a Starfleet ship who much like the Enterprise of old always was a training ship regardless. Our missions are twofold, one to teach and second to carry out the Federations missions, and hands-on experience is the best teacher out here," J'Loni stated. "Now if I have overstated myself..."

" That's all well and good Sir, And trust me, nobody respects the Starfleet way more then I do. But, is it not possible that we generally stopped doing this form of training for good reasons? Some of these babies don't exactly seem ready to have their lives put in danger, potentially speaking. And, if that's the case, would that not be putting everyone else in danger Sir? ". Chief Payne said answering the officer.

Maximilian spoke up after Payne had finished. "Arguably no one's really ready to get shot at on their first deployment, Master Chief. Simulations, even on the holodeck, can only get one so far. So in that point I agree the Lieutenant." He stopped for a moment, collecting his thoughts. "However I do have to say that longer preparation time would have gone a long way. Alas, I am aware that our cargo must be delivered as soon as possible, so as I see it we'll have to compromise between everyday duties and further training."

Franklin gave a brief glimpse at Canaan who appeared to be extremely attentive and taking notes. Moving his gaze across, they fell on a rather new face, that of the Master Chief. He listened to the question provided, then watched as his Chief Engineer replied. When Maximilian spoke up, he remained quiet. After a moment of silence, he spoke up.

"These are wonderful issues to address, Master Chief," said the Commander. "As Chief Engineer J'Loni stated correctly, and to paraphrase, we need these cadets to get experience. Our job is to lessen the dangers of our journey upon them, as senior and experienced Starfleet Officers. What we can prevent in time, they must also in time experience themselves. Sometimes fate or what have you, or even circumstance does not wait for the inexperienced. The same is true for our Academy cadets. One way or another, they have to learn. The Academy believes that on a training ship like this, it's the best way, and I happen to agree on that."

He smiled, "Anything else?"

Freya looked around, and when nobody else took the cue, she pulled out a PADD and spoke up. "I actually have an announcement to make. A few days ago, after the whole drama on the bridge, as you know, I made a few changes to my appearance. On that note, I would like to thank the Commander again for allowing me to diverge from standard uniform. However, that is not the only change I made. I can now announce that my request to Starfleet Command to change my official name by adding a surname has been approved."

She smiled, and stood. "Therefore, let me introduce myself again. Lieutenant Freya Svanirsdottir Mannerheim, pleasure to meet all of you." She sat down again. "Of course, in informal contexts, feel free to keep calling me Freya - but for official purposes, it's now 'Lieutenant Mannerheim'."

Commander Johnson nodded towards Freya, giving a smile. "You're very welcome Lieutenant. I'm very happy we have come to an amicable solution following that, and I thank you for your patience. I look forward to working together with you again as you lead the Poseidon onward on our journey."

A nod towards the Lieutenant, "One last opening before I conclude our meeting. Anything else?"

The Second Officer and Chief Counsellor had been dutifully listening to the entire meeting as it transpired, measuring everyone's reactions and the general mood of the room. Understandably a sense of foreboding had developed once several key voices in the room had voiced their suspicions that Pavan's death may have indeed been a case of sabotage. Kana focused first and foremost on Neteri's reaction, considering her volatile emotional burnout following the incident. She was of course shocked, but since she had always held her suspicions about the circumstances, did also demonstrate a degree of relief. For her, a measure of justice was potentially about to be served.

Kana then listened to the Chief Medical Officer's statements, and she did happen to wonder what the Romulan officer spent most of his time doing besides being in his own quarters and Medical. She made a mental note to visit him at some point, since they hadn't yet been formally introduced. It would be key for a number of reasons, least of all due to the work she soon envisioned they would have to do together regarding the cast of Lieutenant Vladinchi. Furthermore, in light of his 'investigation', it was probably apt that someone from Command liaised with him.

As she went to say something, Lieutenant Freya spoke up, to announce that she had adopted a new surname. Mannerheim. Kana outwardly showed a calm and friendly smile at the announcement, though in her own mind she did wander what helped influence the decision, in light of the most recent conversation they had both had. Since they had an official counselling appointment scheduled soon, Kana would be sure to bring it up there.

At the Commander's call for any final remarks, the Chief Counsellor then spoke up. "I would just like to reiterate, Commander..." She said, standing up so that she could be heard and seen clearly by everyone in the room. "...The need for everyone to remain vigilant. Not just in terms of potential threats, but for the well-being of our fellow crewmates and the cadets in our charge. The Poseidon's counselling services saw an exponential increase in demand following the incident, and I only expect this to be maintained as we venture out on our first mission. It is incredibly important that the Senior Officers of each department and their staff lead by example and show calm and absolute candor in the face of the challenges we're likely to face."

She gave everyone a firm gaze, before turning explicitly to the Commander. "In regards to investigating possible sabotage of Pavan's craft, Commander, I would strongly encourage that there be a formal investigation into the matter, combining the findings of Lieutenant's Karn and T'vek, and enlisting the combined efforts of Security, Medical, Science and Intelligence. Both Lieutenant Commander Graydon and I can help to oversee the joint effort, and report back to you when conclusive evidence presents itself."

Looking at him intently, there was a subtle communication in her eyes - even though they were solid black - that this was a chance for him to demonstrate clear leadership, the kind she had willed for him to have only three nights ago.

Phoebe had been sitting quietly, listening, rather than taking part in the meeting. She was a woman of very few words, so she didn't feel the need to say anything further than what Kanaka said, and She simply nodded at what Kanaka had said, before looking across to see the Commanders reaction.

Franklin's eyes focused on his Number One's, then focused on his Second Officer. Both Phoebe and Kanaka seemed to have agreed on this course and while he felt somewhat out of the loop, it did bode well that his Command Staff was working so functionally behind the scenes. He nodded, finally.

"Make it so," he told his Second Officer, then looked to Phoebe. "Number One, I want you and Number Two to make a clear and dedicated effort to resolve this. I firmly believe Lieutenant T'Vek is onto something, so let's make sure we clearly and concisely investigate all routes."

"It shall be done, Commander." Kana smiled as she nodded firmly and then returned to her seat, content that Franklin had shown a good display of leadership.

Phoebe nodded again. "I'll get with you shortly so we can go through some things, probably after our meeting later on." She said, smiling.

"Very good," the Commander remarked, clasping his hands in a positive gesture as he faced those present. "I'm going to go ahead and call this meeting. We have discussed in our short time some very concerning issues, as well as some positive affirmations that we will be pursuing our best course and direction.

As I stated before, Senior Officer's, we are an Academy training vessel. I expect your updates and reports to continue as planned. I also expect that my responses to those reports will be more forthright very soon as I anticipate the arrival of my newest Yeoman. Let us all make a constructive effort to make the cadets proud of their work, and learn enough to warrant their early inclusion in starfaring life. Go and be the best crew I know you to be. Dismissed."

[END]

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