AT/D07 - Shuttle Bay

[Tyra Crawford]

== Shuttle Bay ==

[Aeryn Miller]

<< Bridge <<

== Deck 7 - Outside of the Hangar ==

Aeryn knew she was early, but with Wolfen having already taken over the science station on the Bridge, there was little for the CSO to do, other than head in the direction of where she needed to be. That being said, she thought it best to take a slow approach towards her destination, allowing for any conversations before meeting up with the rest of the assembled away team, and getting the appropriate gear from Mara. As she walked along, her commbadge sounded with an incoming call from Maguire, who had been assisting Medical with the samples collected from the Freighter.

[Maguire to Miller, I've finished assisting Medical, and I'm about to head back to the complex. We discovered that the Cardassian clones have been genetically enhanced with aspects of the Vorta that the Founders created. Aspects such as enhanced hearing, immunity against poisons, and rapid healing, we also looked into the Klingons, but there was nothing unusual about them, apart from evidence of inbreeding.]

The redhead had to admit that she found the information interesting, and hopefully, they would get more answers when they arrived at the base and figured out exactly what was going on. Tapping her badge, Aeryn quickly responded. " Miller to Maguire, acknowledged, I'll be heading to the base shortly as part of an away team, so I'll catch up with you once I'm back".

She didn't know how useful it would be, but that was something to put together later once she returned to the ship. Aeryn then received an acknowledgement from Owen.

[Acknowledged, Chief, stay safe, Maguire out]

With the call ended, Aeryn remained outside the hangar for the time being.


== Tags ==

[Robin Mayfair]

<< Medical Complex <<

Robin walked down the corridor to the turbolift, her custom medkit in a small shoulderbag and a larger hardcase carried two-handed. As the door opened she tapped her combadge.

"Mayfair to Bridge. I have the final report on the genetics of the Klingons and Cardassians. The Cardassian blood showed modification with Vorta genetic code giving them increased healing, hearing, and at least resistance to poison if not immunity. Nothing that rises to the level of a full Augment. The Klingons are just ordinary, though there's a bit of inbreeding generations ago. Sorry there wasn't anything more we could discover. On my way to the Shuttlebay now."

Yeah, I know I should assign someone. CMOs and delegation and all that. But my most combat-ready doctor is out of action, Beka's got the floor and just had a confrontation with Mara. I'm not going to send any of the others into this mess, especially someone green like Melody. And maybe it's stupid of me, but I need to get out of that Sickbay and somewhere where my skills can do some good. 

It was odd that Robin was now confident enough that going into a possible combat situation was only moderately worrying to her. The diffident Middie who'd stepped onto the decks of the Artemis was long gone. The young Augment had been on enough away teams, had been in enough messes that she was confident enough now. She wasn't worried anymore that she'd fail to pull her weight or would screw up. She was trained as a trauma nurse. CMO was a title. This was what she was. 

Besides, Bashir and Crusher and McCoy went on missions all the time. 

The turbolift doors opened and she saw Aeryn outside the Shuttlebay door. She went up to the former Security, now Science Chief and set her case down. "Hi Aeryn. Ready to go?"

It was small talk and the nurse knew it, but that was fine. She still had a bit of nerves, nothing major, but talking to someone helped. "I brought my combat armor just in case. Mara didn't mention it but I know how these missions go." 

== Tag Aeryn and whoever else shows up for the party ==

[Aeryn Miller]

Thoughts about what was about to come permeated Aeryn's mind, fully aware that this would be her first away mission as a scientist. Of course, her being cross-trained would be to her advantage, especially if they met resistance from whoever was in charge of the base, or inevitably ended up in a fight, but the redhead understood what her primary goal would be. Mara would no doubt have a plan for them once she arrived, so in the meantime, Aeryn could only speculate and prepare herself mentally. The physical aspect of readiness was thankfully not a concern, as, despite changing departments, the former security officer maintained the kind of fitness she was used to.

The next person to arrive was Robin, and Aeryn smiled warmly upon seeing her friend, who promptly asked if she was ready to go, after greeting her. " Hi Robin, and I'm as ready as I can be," she replied, before the CMO revealed that she had brought her combat armour and why. Robin wasn't wrong about Artemis missions, as they rarely went smoothly, so she didn't blame her for wanting to be extra prepared.

" I don't blame you, and agree we do have quite the track record when it comes to away missions. I know Mara is bringing everything else that we might need".

Which made Aeryn wish that she had stopped by her quarters to grab her dagger; however, she decided that a phaser or rifle would be enough, along with body armour.


== Tags ==

[Hallowette Maxas-Darl]

Just focus on getting there safe. You have done this a thousand times in the simulators and exercises. You're rated for this because you're GOOD at it. The Captain wouldn't have asked you to take the flight if you weren't.

Hally had stopped by flight ops to put on a flight uniform (slightly more form fitting and with more pockets, more of an EV suit than a standard uniform) and gather up her survival kit. As she stood in front of her locker she tried her best not to look at or engage with any of the other pilots, preferring to just get on with it. She knew it was already known that she had just spent the last shift in control of the Artemis, and that sort of thing would be eager conversation among the men and women here - but that conversation would have to wait. 

Just as she turned to leave CPO Garrett approached her. She met his grizzled gaze and tried not to flinch as her eyes settled on his. The man had been a fair if not demanding taskmaster when she joined the ship, and she was uncertain why he had chosen to confront her now of all times.

"Midshipman Maxis-Darl." said the old deck officer. "You've had a busy day."

"Yes...I have at that Chief." Hally said, her voice quivering slightly as her nerves were given a chance to express themselves.

The veteran non com looked her over, reaching up to secure a check on her pilot harness. Hally said nothing as she allowed the man to do her flight suit check. 

"Looks good...Sir." Garrett said, giving her a rare affectation. Her teal eyes grew as the weight of his words settled on her, the gesture somehow serving to give her some quiet calm.

"Thank you Chief Garrett." Hally said quietly. The man put his hand on her shoulder and for the first time he allowed a fatherly, proud look to wash over his face, "You're going to do fine. Just see the mission as far as you can before it goes off the rails, then do what you do best - FLY." he pulled a container from her locker, opened it and offered it to her, "Don't forget this, just in case." Hally took the type 2 phaser, ensured it had a full charge and placed it in the suits holster.

Hally nodded, giving the man a thankful smile. "See you when we get back." she uttered, placing a hand over his on her shoulder. "That we will, Sir. Good hunting." the older man stated confidently with a nod.

<----------------------------------------------------------->

The doors to the hangar bay opened with a swoosh and Hally took stock of the area. The Shuttle was a Type 14, the Aura, and Hally's favorite to fly. As she strode across the deck she noticed Aeryn and Robin standing outside the hangar bay doors, likely awaiting the rest of the insertion team. She waved slightly at the pair and began her ground checks, speaking to a deck hand who offered her a PADD with the ships preflight checklist. 

"Thanks Corrin." she said, suddenly feeling very official. "I'll take the checks from here." As she scanned the PADD she placed it on a cargo container sitting across from the Aura, and allowed herself one more selfish ritual. She took out a worn bit of citrus scented cloth and scraped her auburn curls into a messy bun - the knot uneven and heavy with gaps where the hair resisted, allowing several stray spirals to slip loose, framing her face and catching the light like errant sparks shaken from a flame.

As she walked around the shuttle her mind focused on the minutia of flight. Scenarios, maneuvers, responses - all possibilities of what she might encounter and how to mitigate the risk to her most important cargo - the combat troops relying on her to get them on the ground safe and in one piece. Once they were in position she would follow whatever orders Mara gave, and she would fight alongside them if she had to. She couldn't allow herself to let the 'what ifs' shake her ability to do what she was there to do.

Satisfied with the preflight Op checks she triggered the ramp to deploy and she glanced back towards her friends at the entrance to the bay and nodding to them before she entered the shuttle and took her seat. From here she began the engine warm up cycle and began the diagnostics. By the time everyone arrived, she and the Aura would be ready to fly.

==TAGS!==

[Eun Ju Han]

<<Engineering<<

The Turbo lift door opened, allowing Han and others to step out of the lift and onto the shuttle bay. Ju's eyes shifted around the bay, looking at the surroundings for a moment before her eyes found some familiar faces. Mostly, Aeryn, because they had really bonded earlier when they worked together. Han found a smile crossing her face seeing the red headed Scientist waiting outside the shuttle. Going with her Chief and now Aeryn actually made her feel much more comfortable. A pocket full of candy wouldn't hurt either in keeping her awake and helping her stay focused when she struggled. Everyone in the academy came up with their own coping strategies for the amount of studying and work that had to be done, hers had not been the healthiest choice but it wasn't the worst by far.

As she got in ear-shot of the conversation she heard them drop Mara's name. Well this will be a whole party then, Ju thought to herself. Mara was her best friend, thus far, on the Artemis. She might be a little twitchy when it came to her anger management skills but she was a good friend to Ju and the young Korean woman could certainly use as many as she could get. "Nice seeing you again," Ju said coming to a stop in front of the other two.

"Any idea what we're doing this time?" she asked the pair. Who knew if they knew anything more than 'get on shuttle' but it couldn't hurt to ask. Ju was just glad she was with so many familiar faces at this point. The shuttle seemed to be warming up which meant the red-head, yes another one, had probably been the one to start it up. I really feel like I'm going to get a complex about being one of the few people on this boat that don't have red hair, she thought to herself.

"Should we go find our seats or wait for Mara to join the party?" Ju asked curiously.

==Tag all==

[Mara Calleja]

<< Security Office <<

Amongst the armoured forms of Security officers that headed towards the bay was Calleja herself. Her rifle was slung over her shoulder and a sheathed machete hung from her belt. On the other hip was her helmet, and she had two holsters and a pair of pouches clipped in place.

“Come on, in,” she said with a grin as she walked past Aeryn, Robin and Ju. “Let’s get this party started,” she added, having caught the end of the Korean woman’s question.

The shuttle bay doors opened and admitted the group. Mara carried herself with an easy confidence, and when she saw the Aura undergoing pre-flight checks she figured that would be their ride and headed over.

“OK, who have we got, and who else are we expectin’?” Calleja asked. “Give my lot a second to get down here then I can brief you all and then we’ll be good to go, pendin’ the word from the Bridge.”

She stuck her head in through the rear hatch of the shuttle.

“Hey Hally. When you’re ready, out here please,” she called. “You’re part of the team, I need you in on the briefin’.”

Dark eyes looked around as she did a quick count of attendees.

== If you’re coming, please join us sharpish.   ==

[Aeryn Miller]

It wasn't difficult to see Hally wave to them from inside the bay before the pilot got to work with the pre-flight checks of the Aura. With the pilot in place, Aeryn knew it would only be a matter of time until they joined her. The CSO was about to suggest to Robin that they make a move when Ju approached the pair and enquired if any of them had an idea as to what they would be doing. " We're about to head to a hidden base that we found," she began before the Engineer continued the conversation. However, Mara appeared at the right time, bringing out a grin from Aeryn as she answered Ju's question.

" Let's indeed," she quipped, following the Security Chief into the shuttle bay properly, stopping just short of the Aura, when Mara asked who they had and who they were still expecting to arrive. The team leader also mentioned waiting for more security before she briefed everyone, which made a lot of sense to Aeryn.

" Devereaux should be here soon," she stated, wondering where Lucy had gotten to, especially with them both being relieved by Wolfen on the Bridge.

She hoped it wasn't an omen for what was to come by her not already being present, but pushed that thought to one side, while Mara asked Hally to come out of the shuttle she could also be a part of the briefing.


== Tags ==

[Ardanna Svenson]

<< Security Complex <<

Arriving at the designated Shuttle Bay only took minutes, enough time for Ardanna to be left alone with her thoughts and to mentally prepare herself for what was about to come. While she might not have expected to be called for another away mission so soon after returning from the last one, she knew that she was doing the right thing and that whatever the outcome was, she would have done her best. Approaching the entrance, Ardanna spotted several officers, including a couple of DHs, and Mara, who was already entering the bay. There was also an Engineer whom she had yet to meet, and while an away mission wasn't ideal for a first introduction, it was just one of those things.

Upon closer inspection as she got nearer, Ardanna realised who one of the DH's was, and how she could not have heard of Aeryn Miller, considering how she used to be the head of Security. There was still a lot for the brunette to learn as she entered the bay, just as the Chief addressed everyone present. Standing to one side, Ardanna waited for the other security officers to arrive, so the Chief could share the plan with the rest of the away team.

Readiness and adrenaline were very much coursing through her veins, but at the same time, she respected the chain of command, because soon enough, they'd be leaving the safety of the ship.

[Lucy Devereaux]

Lucy arrived at the entrance to Shuttle Bay. She picked up a tricorder from the Science Labs. She had eventually found an Engineering Field Kit. Aeryn had hurt herself opening an unpowered door at Utopia Planitia. Lucy knew she should have helped. She mightn’t have been that much use, but even a little help might have been better. The tool kit was a just in case.

Contingencies. Better being kinda prepared. Lucy was still surprised that Aeryn would willingly bring her along. This had to her first Away Team since the first disastrous one. She wondered if the pirates would be primarily male. Klingon women were a curiosity, but Lucy wasn’t up for those kind of risks.

She saw Ayern, she also saw Ju. She needed to greet Aeryn first. Lucy wondered if she should have turned around and get started on her scut duty. It would probably save time. If she could stop being a one woman walking disaster it would be a major improvement. She shouldered the kit and approached Aeryn.

“Reporting in, Lieutenant Commander. Aside from a weapon and body armor I’ve got what I might need.”

Lucy wanted to approach Ju to make a formal apology for her thoughtless words. She didn’t want it to matter to her if she couldn’t be forgiven, but she wondered if she would be able to mentally move on herself. Lucy had shown herself to be a monumental idiot in front of all of the senior and junior staff or at least the ones that had been at the mission briefing. This was a chance to repair her reputation or at least make her less of a lady who should have reconsidered her Starfleet application. 

== tag. ==

[Robin Mayfair]

"I don't blame you, and agree we do have quite the track record when it comes to away missions. I know Mara is bringing everything else that we might need." Robin nodded in agreement at Aeryn. She was right, and most of the away teams they'd been on recently had been disasters in some way or another.

"Seems like most of what we do is nowadays is infiltration or storming the castle. Honestly I'm glad we're taking a shuttle. Beaming into a nest of Klingons seems like a bad idea."

Others began arriving, Hallowette first. She gave the two department heads a wave and headed inside, presumably to begin checks and make sure the shuttle was ready for departure. Eun Ju Han, an Engineering officer who Robin didn't know well, arrived and stopped to talk with them. "Nice seeing you again. Any idea what we're doing this time?" She asked if they should head in or wait for Mara, and Robin honestly wasn't sure.

Aeryn suggested they should head in, and it was at that point when Mara appeared, loaded for battle. "Come on, in. Let’s get this party started," she said with a grin before heading into the shuttlebay and calling for Hally to join them.

Well, that settles that. 

Robin set her case down and opened it, taking out the custom combat armor she'd had made after the Kazon station. The standard 'one size fits most' sets didn't fit the small and slight nurse. They were too heavy for her, extremely uncomfortable, and hindered her movements. This set had been designed for her based on some specs she'd found in the ship's databanks for Jennifer Braggins, a similarly small woman (and apparently a fellow Augment, if scuttlebutt was true). It was light and designed for speed but still tough, or at least tough enough. She strapped it on and checked it while they waited for the rest of the team to arrive. She'd need to get a phaser, but there never seemed to be a shortage of those. The nurse didn't like wearing armor but she understood the need for it. She didn't put her helmet on yet but held it. 

She didn't know most of the Security officers with Mara except through her duties, patching some of them up after wounds or training. Injuries weren't uncommon in Mara's department. But she did know Lucy and gave her a quick wave. With that the CMO waited for the briefing to begin.

== Tags ==

[Omdor Jaein]

Jaein settled in near the back of the shuttle as he walked in, letting Han go and reconnect with the others. He felt a little bad, pulling her onto a second away team so quickly, but that was sometimes life in the service, just as it was his lot to join on this one.

Face it, he thought, you feel guilty for not going the first time. He'd had every reason not to the first time, and it was technically the right decision, but given the way that that expedition to the Klingon ship had gone he still felt bad about sending so young an officer on her own over there. But not this time; he was here to help, and the two of them should be able to handle whatever happened.

He looked around, getting his head back in the moment to be ready for the brief. So far he saw a lot of security, but also a pair of scientists and the CMO. It was going to be a rather interesting one. He adjusted the strap on his engineering kit and resettled his phaser on his hip as he settled in, and wondered just what they were really in for at this point.

==Tags to anyone==

[Hallowette Maxas-Darl]

>>> INITIATING PRELAUNCH DIAGNOSTICS <<<
[POWER]  PRIMARY GRID  .......... ONLINE
               EPS RELAYS    .......... NOMINAL (99.2%)
               AUXILIARY      .......... STANDBY
[PROPULSION] IMPULSE ENGINES .... READY
                      RCS THRUSTERS ...... GREEN 
                      INERTIAL DAMPENERS . CALIBRATED (±0.002 VAR)
[STRUCTURE]  SIF FIELD .......... 100% IRL
                      HULL INTEGRITY ..... VERIFIED
[NAVIGATION] DEFLECTOR .......... ALIGNED
                      SENSORS (SR) ....... CLEAR
                      SENSORS (LR) ....... ONLINE (RES 98.7%)
[LIFE SUPPORT] ATMOSPHERE ....... STABLE (M-CLASS)
                        GRAVITY PLATES ... ENGAGED
                        EMERG. O₂ ........ 48 HR RESERVE
[DEFENSE] SHIELDS ............ IDLE / WARM
                 PHASERS ............ TYPE-V ARRAY, SAFETIED
                 TORPEDOES .......... 2x MICRO, SECURE
[COMMUNICATIONS]  SUBSPACE LINK ... ACTIVE (USS ARTEMIS)
                  INTERNAL COMMS ... FUNCTIONAL
>>> ALL SYSTEMS NOMINAL <<<

Hally looked over the computers diagnostic report, her practiced eye pleased with the read out before her. As she nodded quietly to herself the computer reported in its familiar warm tone, "Shuttle Craft Aura preflight diagnostics complete, standing by for pilot authorization: Midshipman Maxas-Darl."

Hally took one more glance at the readout before responding back, allowing herself a moment to feel the hum of the engines as they cycled beneath her. "Acknowledged Computer. Authorize Mid. Hallowette Maxas-Darl, primary pilot, Combat Insertion, this stardate." a few beats later the authorization tone chirped, and the computer responded. "Acknowledged."

Hally's concentration faded as Mara's voice filled the interior of the shuttle, "Hey Hally, when you are ready, out here please. You're part of the team, I need you in on the briefin'."

Hallowette looked over her shoulder to see Mara's head disappear from view. "On my way Lieutenant."

The lanky hybrid spryly lifted herself from the pilots recliner and she grabbed up her PADD before making her way out the side entrance closest to where the team was gathering. Hally recognized a fair number of the crew, but also was aware of just how many here she didn't know at all, especially those from engineering. She made a note to try to get to know more people in the coming days.

She willed away the simmering anxiety fluttering like summer glee flies in her stomach, and she stepped up between a brown haired female security officer she thought she remembered was named Svenson, and a muscular blonde human carrying a case of weapons and a cocky grin. She smiled at them both shyly as she joined the circle, and made sure she nodded towards Miller, Robin and Lucy, hoping quietly that she didn't look as nervous and out of place as she felt like she was. 

As she scanned the circle of proficient looking officers she felt both reassured and aware of just how real things were about to get for her. Years of training had come to this. Every cadet dreamed of what their first away mission would be, and suddenly felt very childish. She was all too aware of how this was both just like, and completely different from what she had often dreamed of. The phaser at her side suddenly felt much heavier than it ever had in training.

As her eyes fell on Mara she bit her lip unconsciously and waited for a moment to pipe up, her normally husky voice carrying a bit more gravel than normal - something she attributed to the adrenaline that was coursing through her body. "Shuttlecraft Aura is prepped and ready to disembark whenever you...uhm, we,...are ready Lieutenant."

==Tags! Assume Pearson is there, prepped and joking around as the group forms up==

[Mara Calleja]

"Shuttlecraft Aura is prepped and ready to disembark whenever you...uhm, we,...are ready Lieutenant."

Mara nodded to Hally, and then looked around and did a quick mental head-count. She hadn’t been expecting 2 Engineers but she also wasn’t going to turn away Omdor’s experience and expertise. It would have been all too easy to let herself get unsettled and insecure at the prospect of leading a team consisting of so many officers who technically outranked her, but the Security Chief was made of sterner stuff than that.

“OK, we’re all here. Listen in please, because I’m not goin’ over this again,” she said with a feral grin. “And don’t judge me for how I gotta talk to make sure everyone understands me for the briefin’.”

She beckoned Pearson over with the holo-projector, and at her touch it sprang into life with a representation of the base on the planet below. 3 buildings inside a compound fence, and another half-finished shell on the other side of the barrier.

When Mara spoke, her accent had disappeared. From the expression of distaste she wore, she wasn’t happy about it, but she understood the need to be clear and concise.

“This is where we’re going. If the planet has a name, it’s not on record. But what it does have is a Dominion-era cloning facility,” she began. “Evidence collected from the freighter qoH indicates that this facility is producing Vorta and Cardassian clones, and it’s under Klingon control. Our mission is to infiltrate it and find out who’s really calling the shots. Are the Dominion making a comeback, or do we have a rogue Klingon faction that’s just got lucky?”

Calleja pointed to the buildings of the compound as she spoke.

“These 3 buildings inside the compound are all Dominion constructed and date back to the Dominion war. Scans indicate that we’ve got a barracks here, the cloning facility itself here, and the pen where the clones are held here. The building outside the compound is much more recent and it’s a Klingon construction, but it’s not even half-finished yet.”

Mara paused to give everyone time to take in what she’d said.

“For my many, many sins, the Captain has asked me to lead the away team. We’re to go in via shuttle whilst Artemis covers our approach. I want to put that Klingon shell between us and the base itself, try and keep the shuttle out of sight as much as possible. We have 2 Security officers carrying powered cutters and a sapper so that we can breach the fence. Once we’re in, we split into 2 teams.”

She looked up, dark eyes moving from person to person.

“Team 1 is under my direct command. We’re going into the building where they’re keeping the clones, because that’s where we believe the command centre is. Coming with me are Omdor, Han, Maxas-Darl, Svenson, Howland and Vedlar. Team 2 is under LCdr Miller’s command and is going to the clone lab. That’s Miller, Devereaux, Mayfair, Yordan, Pearson, Coyn and Partik. Each team has a fluent Klingon speaker. Team 1, that’s me. Team 2, that’s Partik.” Calleja nodded to the male Klingon hybrid stood next to Miller.

“Everyone needs to be equipped with full tactical armour and a weapon. If you’ve got your phaser certifications, you get a type II. If you don’t, you get a type I. The armour is equipped with experimental tech to mask our lifesigns from casual scans, but we don’t know how effective it will be so time is of the essence. We need to be in, out and gone as fast as possible. If we get in a fight, follow the orders from the Security team and get out of the way. We will bring you all back. Help us do that by not trying to be the hero. I’m authorising kill shots because the priority is the mission and a swift evac back to the shuttle. Keep open comms between the two teams and if either finds the answer to our questions, we leave immediately.”

Calleja paused again.

“Does anyone have any questions? Now’s the time to speak up. Please don’t be afraid to ask if you’re unsure. I’d rather you say something now before we get down there.”

She turned to the odd Security officer out.

“Sansum, you’re sitting this one out, sorry for getting your hopes up,” she said. “Can you contact Okehampton and start getting the armour and weapons down here.”

With the evidently disappointed CPO moving away and contacting the Security Office, Mara looked back at the assembled officers.

== Tags all! The experimental armour tech was cleared with the Captain earlier. ==

[Aeryn Miller]

Aeryn had barely spoken the words about Lucy when her fellow scientist finally showed up, sporting not only a tricorder but also an engineering field kit. The CSO wasn't sure why she had brought the kit, or why she hadn't said that she was going to make a stop before leaving the Bridge, so Aeryn decided not to question it. It was better that way, especially with the rest of the team assembling and ready to hear Mara's mission briefing, including Hally, who had stepped out of the shuttle and was now standing near Svenson and Pearson.

" Okay, we're about to have a briefing," she said quietly to Lucy, wanting her to pay attention. The redhead also knew that things like weapons and armour would be distributed by security to those who needed them before they left. Mara then got the briefing underway with some help from one of her officers, who had brought a holo-projector with him. The image being displayed instinctively had Aeryn switch to a familiar mode, noting how Mara's accent disappeared as the Security Chief explained what they were seeing and what the objective was. The redhead didn't like either of the options; however, personal opinions aside, she knew that they had to find out exactly what was going on down there, who was responsible, and stop it.

Mara then went on to the buildings themselves, indicating what they were, before continuing in more detail about what her plan was, and who was in charge of each team. Aeryn was familiar with Partik and so gave the hybrid officer a nod, while committing every detail to memory, and Mara's plan was not only sound but also made a lot of sense. Leading team 2 to the clone lab, already had Aeryn thinking about what they would find, and who they might encounter, as Mara brought the briefing to a close with who would be equipped with what weapons, and the introduction of experimental armour. That unintentionally brought out a grin from the Science DH, which quickly disappeared as Mara gave the final instructions and then asked if anyone had questions.

" None from me, great plan by the way".

Aeryn momentarily felt sorry for the CPO who had gotten dismissed, but these things happened, and now she was itching to get suited up and onto the shuttle, not realising how much she was going to enjoy being involved in something like this.


== Tags ==

[Ardanna Svenson]

With everyone in attendance who needed to be, Ardanna turned her attention to the Chief as she began the briefing. The images projected instantly became familiar to the brunette, thanks to the efforts of Yordan, Ollie, and her in the security complex. Even seeing them now only brought back her thoughts on the base, what they had uncovered, and how they were now going to put the Chief's plan into action. The adrenaline within her felt like a wild animal about to be let loose; however, Ardanna knew how to keep it under control, to channel it where it needed to be, otherwise things were likely to go wrong.

Listening as the Chief continued, Ardanna absorbed every detail, every nugget of information, aside from the buildings themselves, as those had seemingly already ingrained themselves in her memory. She understood why the Chief was explaining about them, for the benefit of the others, and then she relayed her plan, specifically who would be in each team, who would be leading them, along with specific instructions regarding weaponry, armour, and what Security's role was should they get into a fight. Ardanna also agreed with Mara about bringing them all back, and how no one should try and act the hero. The use of kill shots and the mission priority were equally reasonable as the Chief brought the briefing to a close, and dismissed Sansum with instructions for Nat.

Chief Miller spoke next, while Ardanna shook her head as she had no questions either. The plan was straightforward and clear, and once they got back, she would ask Ollie and the others to go for a drink in the lounge, as they would have definitely earned it. Since she was already geared up, Ardanna made herself available in case anyone needed assistance.

== Tags ==

[Omdor Jaein]

Jaein listened quietly as Mara went through the plan. It was straightforward enough, and simple enough. There didn't appear to be a lot in the way of opposition, which was good, and the armor and weapons would all be very welcome for what opposition there was.

For a moment, he considered questioning keeping both engineers on the same team, but thought better of it. After all, the second target was mostly the cloning facilities, and the scientists and medic would be better equipped to evaluate that gear than he would. Sure, you may have fought in the Dominion War and helped tear through some of their equipment, he thought, but for stuff that complex all you'd really be able to do is just turn it off. To figure out how much of a threat we have will take better minds than yours.

Instead, he just nodded and gave the COS a smile. "Ready when you are, chief," he said, and got ready for deployment.

==Tags==

[Hallowette Maxas-Darl]

==Ens. Oliver "Ollie" Pearson, Security NRC==

The broad chested Aussie stood easily by as Mara began the briefing, only stepping forward when asked by the Chief to present the holoprojector he had carried down alongside his gear. He had noted several new faces among the away team, though most were familiar, at least in passing. The pilot was a diminutive woman, perhaps partly Trill, whom he didn't personally know and he couldn't shake the feeling that she seemed nervous. He hoped internally that the pilot was capable. She was a Middle, a young one at that, and that made him nervous - but he rested his anxiety at the feet of the Captain and Callejo. If they chose the little Sheila for the mission, they had to know something he didn't, and that was fine by him - Ollie prided himself on knowing as little as possible and still getting the job done - though he might have phrased it slightly differently had he phrased that aloud.

The young officer in the pilot jumpsuit noticed his glance and met his gaze confidently, though the smile she flashed was less certain. Ollie, despite his usual cocksure demeanor returned the smile, nodding supportively. The skinny young woman turned her eyes back to the briefing, and Ollie did the same, taking in Mara's words and their meaning. He wished he was on Svenson's team, but he got why Mara had put him on team two - besides he knew Miller well enough - he had worked under her for a time before her transfer and was glad for her returning back to action, even if it was in blue. As Mara finished the briefing she asked for questions, and to his credit, he kept his usual comments to himself. It was time to get to work, and as he turned his gaze to the woman he fancied, Svenson, he hoped there would be time for play afterwards as well.

-----------------------------------

== Midm. Hallowette Maxas-Darl==

Mara spoke clearly and succinctly, a clear departure from the usual rough cadence and vernacular that Hallowette had grown to expect from the Chief of Security. She was impressed by the woman's ability to encapsulate the plan and the respect she showed for both her people and what they might encounter on the planet.

Hally allowed herself a few glances among the crowd, noting that most paid her little mind outside of any curiosity that might accompany unfamiliarity, but luckily for her, she at least knew most of them by sight if not by name. The large blonde human at her side had given a curious appraising look, but she had appreciated the warm reassurance in the smile he returned when she acknowledged him. Her father being a former security man, she knew that the personnel wearing gold could be difficult to win over, and often were wary of new faces, so she tried to just be present and not judge any looks too harshly.

Mara spoke of the mission, the teams roles and then the assignments. She tried to ignore the pit in her stomach when Mara announced she would be part of the first team, the entry team, but the feeling was real, and she suddenly felt light headed. She had hoped that somehow she would be assigned to stay with the shuttle - to give overwatch or firesupport from the air, but Callejo - her friend - had different plans. 

Luckily Mara's briefing continued in such a way that gave her the distraction she needed to avoid spiraling into a void of anxiety. As the amazonian woman mentioned translators, Hally perked up, and she allowed a brief pause in the cadence of the briefing to raise a hand, one that still throbbed slightly from her injury earlier, and she offered, "Lieutenant, I am fluent in Klingon and speak a bit of Dominionese as well..." she paused before adding, "Uhm...if I can help...with that..." She felt her face flush as she felt the eyes of the others in the group fall on her. She silently cursed her awkwardness - she had debated in front of thousands, had performed, sung and engaged with proper UFP diplomats and politicians as a youth - why was this proving to be so challenging for her?

She pushed the feeling aside as best she could and nodded that her comment was concluded as she settled back into the rhythm of the briefing. She would need help with the full tactical armor - she hadn't put on full armor since her junior year - and she hoped it wouldn't impede her ability to fly, but she wasn't about to challenge the Chief on the order. She knew that if things went bad she would probably need it, so she would make what adjustments flying she needed to. Her type I would have to do also, as she had never completed advanced weapons certification - though she wondered if maybe she should have - or at least paid more attention to her father's lessons back on Bajor years back.

Mara concluded the briefing, asking for questions, and Hallowette shook her head in the negative. It wasn't totally true, though she wasn't honestly sure where to start with all the questions she had. She recognized though that the desire to know more came more from a nagging need to solidify a feeling of control than any genuine lack of information. She resolved to trust the team and it's leaders, and be where she was needed when the time came.

As the CPO went to retrieve the armor Hally stood quietly to herself, only speaking to others when and if they approached her. She figured she would ask Aeryn for help donning the armor when it arrived as she didn't want to bother Mara with such trivialities. 

Otherwise she just tried to focus on the business at hand. It wouldn't be long before she was no longer an away team newbie - not long before she would no longer be battle tested.

And strangely enough, She REALLY missed her Dad.

==tags==

[Robin Mayfair]

Mara's briefing was as efficient as she always was when on the clock. Robin was going to be on Team 2 under Aeryn's command. That was fine; she'd worked with her friend before on the Utopia Planitia mission. the two of them had tracked down a Breen spy.

And I remember how that mission ended. I pray I don't have to kill anyone.

But Robin wasn't naive about it. These were Klingons, and they often made it necessary. She was well aware how the first away team on the freighter had gone. This time she wouldn't hesitate; she'd just feel terrible about it later. 

“Everyone needs to be equipped with full tactical armour and a weapon. If you’ve got your phaser certifications, you get a type II. If you don’t, you get a type I. The armour is equipped with experimental tech to mask our lifesigns from casual scans, but we don’t know how effective it will be so time is of the essence. We need to be in, out and gone as fast as possible. If we get in a fight, follow the orders from the Security team and get out of the way. We will bring you all back. Help us do that by not trying to be the hero. I’m authorising kill shots because the priority is the mission and a swift evac back to the shuttle. Keep open comms between the two teams and if either finds the answer to our questions, we leave immediately.”

Mara asked for questions and Robin raised her hand. "Do you have a set of that armor sized for a pixie? This suit isn't equipped with that tech." 

I wonder if we could replicate one on short notice.

== Tags everyone but especially Mara ==

[Mara Calleja]

There was a question mid-briefing, and Mara looked over at Hallowette as the Midshipman spoke up.

"Lieutenant, I am fluent in Klingon and speak a bit of Dominionese as well..." she paused before adding, "Uhm...if I can help...with that..."

“Good to know, thanks,” Calleja replied with a nod before continuing. It wasn’t meant dismissively. The Security Chief had filed that information away and would use it if she needed it.

Given my record for gettin’ stuck in, I’m probably the one we most need to cover in case I go down…

As she finished the briefing, Mara looked across at the assembled officers and asked for questions.

"None from me, great plan by the way,” Aeryn said.

“Did you like the part where you were 2IC the most?” Mara replied with a wicked grin. “But thank you.”

"Ready when you are, chief," Omdor said.

“Cool. I guess we’re good to go then,” Calleja replied, seeing as nobody else had anything to add. She looked up as Okehampton and Sansum brought in crates. They had suits sized for everyone on the away team, as well as weapons. As well as the smaller phasers, there was one additional rifle, and the armourer Okehampton handed it over to the former COS Miller. “OK. Gear up,” the Security Chief added. “If you need a hand, ask. No judgment here.”

With the team getting ready, there was one last question from the CMO.

"Do you have a set of that armor sized for a pixie? This suit isn't equipped with that tech."

“Oh yeah. Actually, I’m pretty sure it’s a module that plugs in to existing ports, so I think we can make it work with your suit,” Mara said. She felt a degree of camaraderie with Robin when it came to finding gear that fitted - her own was a custom size as well, just for the opposite reason.

It turned out the armourer had been listening, and Nat Okehampton approached with the module in hand.

“You are correct, Chief. Please hold still a second Commander, I’ll soon have you connected,” she said, in her accent that sounded straight out of a period drama set in 18th century England. Still, she knew her way around her equipment, and it didn’t take her long to get the CMO ready.

“All done,” she said with a gentle pat on Mayfair’s shoulder.

After a few minutes, everyone seemed to be armed and armoured.

“OK, you all look done to me. Let’s get goin’,” Mara called, her usual accent returning as she shepherded the teams aboard the shuttlecraft. With everyone aboard, she tapped her commbadge.

“Calleja to Bridge. Team is ready to go, awaitin’ your command.”

== Tags all! GM, not sure if you’re covering the lift off, but if so, ready when you are please! ==

[Aeryn Miller]

" I did, and always," Aeryn remarked, mirroring Mara's grin after the Security DH had acknowledged Hally and answered her. Omdor also didn't have any questions, informing Mara that he was ready to go. It seemed as though everyone was as eager to get going before Nat and Sansum brought in the crates containing everything they would need for the mission. She might be in a different department now, but that didn't stop Aeryn from feeling that familiar sense of anticipation, especially when Nat handed her a rifle. " Thanks, Nat," she said, before turning her attention to the weapon in her hand. " Hello, old friend," she whispered more to herself, while Mara ordered everyone to gear up and ask for help if required.

Setting it to one side momentarily, along with her tricorder, Aeryn then picked out a suit in her size, slipping it on like a second skin, checking that everything was in place. Satisfied that it was, the CSO grabbed her helmet, tricorder, and weapon as Nat and Mara assisted Robin with a module that could connect with her custom-made armour. Then it was time to get onto the shuttle, and Aeryn didn't dawdle, trusting Lucy to pick up the pace so she wasn't left behind. There would be time to go over the details again during the shuttle ride, as the redhead science chief boarded the Aura and found a seat.

Strapping herself in, Aeryn then waited for departure as Mara spoke to the Bridge.

== Tags ==

[Ardanna Svenson]

With the briefing over and only one question asked regarding the CMO's body armour, there was little for Ardanna to do unless someone needed assistance with their suit. Nat and the Chief were quick to assist Commander Mayfair, while everyone else appeared to be doing okay, at least from what the brunette could tell. Although with the rest of the team getting ready, she stopped for a moment to speak to Ollie, because she might not have the opportunity once the mission got underway.

" I want you back in one piece this time, understand, Mister?" she quipped, " But seriously, take care down there, and you owe me a drink once this is over".

He didn't, but this was the only time she was going to use her usual brand of cheeky humour, and it was better to get it out now, before things got serious. Leaving it there, Ardanna then headed to the shuttle, finding a seat just behind Chief Miller. This might be her second away team in such a short time, but that didn't mean that she wasn't ready as she listened to Mara speak to the Bridge, while securing herself properly.

== Tags ==

[GM-02]

With the crew safely aboard the shuttle, clearance was given and the shuttle took off without incident.

==Everyone, please move quietly and calmly to the Klingon Base. Thank you for your cooperation, and for flying GM Airlines...==

[Robin Mayfair]

== Where are my peanuts? And the in-flight movie is "Rise of Skywalker?" I want my money back. ==

“Oh yeah. Actually, I’m pretty sure it’s a module that plugs in to existing ports, so I think we can make it work with your suit,” Mara said.

"Good deal," Robin said with a bit of a smile. She was relieved at not having to change gear into the bulky one-size-fits-most armor. And truth was she felt more secure in this suit than she ever had in the standard issue gear. She still wasn't a fan of armor, but she understood its necessity.

Looking forward to the day when we can go on some missions that don't look like commando raids. 

Nat Okehampton came over to get the nurse hooked up. Nat Okehampton approached carrying the small module. “You are correct, Chief. Please hold still a second Commander, I’ll soon have you connected.” It didn't take long. The RA-3 port on the armor took the connector and the small cable was plugged into the side. Her helmet, being carried at her side, issued a small >ping< and she looked down, seeing an indicator light up on the HUD. "All done," the Security officer informed the CMO and Robin gave her a grin and thanks.

With that the team was ordered to embark. The CMO took a phaser (type 1, since she wasn't combat certified) and set it to kill. She only hesitated briefly.

I'm not sure if that's a good sign or a bad sign.

Truth was that this mission was already giving her a bad sense of deja vu. On Utopia Planitia she'd tried to take the Breen alive, but that had proven impossible. Even so she'd shot its disruptor instead of the spy. The explosion had killed the alien, but it was the casualness of her actions that had made her worry. She'd done so coldly, and if the next shot hadn't stopped the Breen she'd have flicked to maximum and vaporized it with no more concern than swatting a fly. Mara had been one of the one who'd talked her down, helped her to understand that she wasn't some cold uncaring Augment... even if that worry popped up from time to time. 

She dismissed the thoughts as Hally spun up the engines and eased the shuttle out of the bay.

Of course, we might just get blasted to bits before we get there if they detect us. So think positive thoughts.  

>> Klingon Base >>

[Hallowette Maxas-Darl]

==Ens. Oliver "Ollie" Pearson==

As the briefing concluded the parties began to break up into pairs and cliques, close friends chatting amongst themselves and preparing what gear hadn't been seen to prior. Oliver joked lightly with a couple of the deck crew that were working in the area before turning his attention to the pilot again. Her unease was under control, but it was obvious to the veteran security man that she would likely need help donning the armor, especially as it could be tricky to fit over a non standard utility uniform such as a flight suit - a choice that Ollie had found interesting in itself.

The young slim hybrid was folding the armor this way and that, setting it against herself to check the fit, but certainly unfamiliar with it. 

“What’s this then—armour givin’ ya grief, eh? Don’t worry, kid, I’ll sort the bastard out. Been wranglin’ Starfleet kit since before you knew how to spell tacti-cool.”

Ollie sashayed over with that easy, lopsided grin, giving her a wink as he lifted the chest plate and set it in her arms before stepping behind to untangle the maze of straps and buckles.
“Name’s Pearson, but my mates all call me Ollie. You got a name there, Flight Suit?”

The young woman blushed, her fair skin taking on the same hue as the scarlet tunic peeking from her collar. “Uhm… Darl—Maxas-Darl. My name’s Hallowette. Hally, if you’d like.” Her voice wavered between shyness and surprise at the officer’s unfiltered charm.

“Pleasure, love,” Ollie said, his tone warm but unhurried. For all his size and swagger, his hands were surprisingly gentle as he settled the armour across her shoulders. “Combat gear’s easy once you’ve done it a time or three, but it can be a real ass to figure on your own. Take it you haven’t strapped in since the sims back in Sanny Fran?”

Hallowette grunted softly as he cinched the buckle, then eased the pressure until it sat comfortably. “Yeah, haven’t had much cause to wear it since then,” she admitted.

“Ah, the poor fly-types always get stuck in sideways when we’re doin’ shuttle insertions,” he chuckled. “Don’t worry, you’ll be fine. Between Calleja, Svenny, Miller, and yours truly, you’re in good hands.” He gave another wink as he finished the final strap check and stepped back to look her over. “Right as rain, Flight Suit. Looks good on ya.”

He nodded to the young tactical officer, flashing a cocky grin as she thanked him for the assist. “No worries, kid. See ya out there.”

Ollie had just turned when another voice—warm, teasing, and far too familiar—cut through the hangar noise.

“I want you back in one piece this time, understood, Mister?” she quipped, one brow arched. “But seriously—take care down there. You still owe me that drink when this is over.”
Ollie’s grin shifted from cocksure to genuine, the corners of his eyes softening.

"Ahh, you know me, Ard. Always happy to cock up a mission, 'specially if it’ll impress a girl.” He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck before his voice dropped to something more sincere. “But yeah… I’ll do ya a solid and try not to do anything *too* stupid.”

He gave her a look that lingered just a moment too long. “Wouldn’t wanna jeopardize that drink with a beautiful—” he caught himself, grin widening—“with the beautiful lady.”

Svenson left it at that and disappeared into the shuttle. Ollie watched her go, the expression lingering a beat before he noticed the pilot—Hallowette—grinning despite herself.
He straightened, clearing his throat, then shrugged with mock seriousness. “Yeah, nah - She digs me.”

Hallowette’s grin widened to match his own. “Oh, no, for sure,” she replied, playing along with perfect deadpan.

==preliftoff tags! The two will enter the shuttle after this exchange and take their seats==

[Mara Calleja]

From her usual spot next to the shuttle’s rear hatch - she was always one of the first into any potentially hostile zone and wouldn’t have it any other way - Mara felt a momentary flutter from her chest as the shuttle lifted off. It was only a split-second and then it was gone.

Don’t matter how confident I feel I guess. There’s always that little bit of nerves. ‘Cause here we go again.

Only an idiot truly felt no fear, and the Amazonian officer was no idiot. As she looked around the away team, she realised quite how many of the assembled crew she called friends now. Her biggest fear now was whether she was strong enough mentally and physically to make sure they all came back at the end of this. They were all her responsibility and she took it deathly seriously.

Broad shoulders rose and fell as she drew in a deep breath and let it out before donning her helmet.

Too late for gettin’ in my own head now. We’re on the way. Dice are rollin’.

>> Klingon Base >>