Not What It Seems MISSON END

Posted on Sat Jul 3rd, 2021 @ 9:23am by Commodore Ledeya ‘Ed’ Ehestri (*) & Commander Christopher Mitchell

Mission: Cosmos
Location: USS Cosmos, Captains Ready Room
Timeline: 2396
1140 words - 2.3 OF Standard Post Measure

Ledeya sat back at her desk and looked at all the data in front of her. The crew that had gone down to support the crew were all back and she hoped they had rested enough for her to catch up with them. They had all been given 48 hours to sort themselves out and have psychological checks after some experiences from the telepathy that was thankfully under control with the support from the medical ships and the colonist all better and running the colony again. She had called Christopher to her ready room when he was awake again from the experience but she was surprised when the door chime went off.

Christopher walked in calmly; with the virus passed, he was far less strung-out and on edge. It was a welcome relief to be back to normal.

"Commodore. We're just about done recovering the last of the crew and supplies from the surface. The rest of the task group is mopping things up, so we're free to leave whenever you are."

“Good morning to you Christopher.” She commented lightly with a small smile indicating the sofa where she had been going through the specifications for Starbase 47. It was after all where they were heading for the end of year holidays to allow everyone involved some respite. “So how are you feeling?” She wondered.

"The headache is gone, which was the worst of it. Still tired, but the doctors said that will clear soon." He took a seat. "From what I understand most of the crew are fit and able to continue shifts as normal. I think we're out of the woods."

"Well, that is a relief to hear Christopher. It seems you and Command Agrax had quite the adventure?" Ledeya had received the medical reports to assure herself that they were all okay but hearing it from someone involved was a relief. "Medical has confirmed three crew are in for observation due to dehydration and after-effects from the virus but apart from that it seems everyone has escaped without any long term side effects." She nodded in relief. It would allow her to relax and potentially enjoy Starbase 47 and all it had to offer.

"I'd recommend psych evaluations for everyone affected," he nodded. "As much as I hate talking to a counsellor I imagine it'll be better than an empathic virus. And the holiday will help. Do you have plans?"

“Your psych evaluation has already been prepared for this evening,” Ledeya said smirking just a little at the man. “I do not actually have any plans. I have several Task Force meetings and… other issues.” She sighed wishing she did have more time for something she wanted. She really needed to unwind after lowering her dose to make sure there was a supply for the crew. It had left her a little twitchy.

"Other issues. Sounds cryptic." Christopher smiled. "I'm sure it's all classified, above my clearance level. Sometimes I forget you're privy to more than a regular starship captain. I'll make sure things are locked down on board while you're away. And no doubt Commander Agrax will make sure I don't get bored."

“Well, you cannot say it is not interesting being a non-regular Captain's executive officer.” She teased leaning back looking at him properly taking a few sips of her coffee. It was a good bean from Brazil on Earth which she had grown fond of at the Academy and it had stuck with her ever since. “What are your thoughts on Commander Agrax?” She wondered.

"Commander Agrax?" He wasn't expecting the question, and he wasn't sure if there were some ulterior motive for her in asking. "She's an excellent officer. A little rough around the edges sometimes, but she's competent and experienced. She'll make someone a hell of an XO herself someday. If they can find a Captain that could handle her." His lips curled up at that last remark. He left it open, wondering if Ledeya would circle back to her reason for asking.

“She was an executive officer,” Ledeya revealed holding out her PADD to the man that showed Alexis service record and how she had been the Executive Officer of Cassiopeia until the pocket universe discovery and the rescuing of Commander Liam Snow - her ex-husband. “We have been requested to see if she is capable of doing her job. Someone onboard has reported her actions on the planet. Your report seemed to contradict it.”

Christopher had been aware of some of Alexis' history, but not all of it. "Someone reported her actions?" he echoed back, wondering if he'd heard that correctly. He scanned the PADD rapidly with his eyes, his brow furrowed with confusion and concern. "I didn't witness any actions unbecoming of a Starfleet Officer. My report was accurate, and I'd challenge anyone to prove otherwise."

“I believe your account but some at Starfleet Command do not believe that people can change and are worth the second chances.” Ledeya frowned and shook her head. She hated this type of espionage. “Yes, but they did it straight to command. Someone onboard either has a hidden agenda or issues with Alexis. We need to watch ourselves and keep an eye out.”

Christopher didn't like that either. He preferred honesty and integrity over sneaking around and being underhanded. "Do you want me to find out who it was?" he asked slowly.

“Yes. If you can. My attempts have been futile. It might also be worth having a talk with Alexis and find out if she’s annoyed anyone enough for them to want to destroy her career.” Ledeya added. The frown lines were an unwelcome addition to her face that day.

"Hmph. Knowing her, that could be a long list. But I'll look into it. We'll have some answers before we reach Starbase, Commodore. I promise."

Ledeya smirked a little. Alexis had the way of getting under people’s skin without even trying, she was not the typical Betazoid that most people seemed to expect. It was a long-held stereotype that her species were calm, composed or all doctors and mental health professionals. The security officer broke every stereotype without even trying. “Well, I am sure it will keep you busy for a while but please also take some of your vacation time. I am sure we cannot get into much trouble on Starbase 47 but maybe start with that.” Ledeya lent over pointing to the restricted access on Agrax’s service record.

"You too, ma'am," he smiled, despite feeling concerned about this new information. "I'll see you in the morning?"

"You will. Continue to get some rest and recover." She did not make it a direct order with words but her tone left no room for him to disobey. She needed to have someone healthy and fit for duty for whatever was coming their way.