Challenges #17"
By: Ian Hunter, Commanding Officer, [PC]
Jonathan Wright, Executive Officer, [PC]

Stardate: 58208.02 0800

Hunter sipped a cup of hot chai as Commander Wright settled into his chair their morning meeting. As usual, both men read the reports from the previous day.

"The preliminary report has been filed with Fleet," commented Hunter on the events of Gowron's death.

Both Officers knew the consequences of yesterday's situation would have far reaching ramifications.

"Northrop will file a more detailed intel report shortly."

"I see that the Ambassador has left us," noted Wright looking up from the report.

"Yes, against my advice, the Ambassador departed late last night after we returned to the ship. He and Worf have assumed command of the Gho'stah," said Hunter with the correct Klingon inflection on the name.

"I can't help but wonder what will happen next," mused Wright. "The Alliance with the Klingon Empire is very important to us."

"When the Cardassians hear of this I am certain they will try to capitalize on it," agreed Hunter.

Hunter flipped to the next report, "What's next?" he asked, "OPs report?"

"Yes," said Wright. "I would like to propose moving Lieutenant Westfall to Gamma shift."

"Interesting," said Hunter, "why is that?"

"I am concerned that the whole affair with Birkoff has damaged his confidence level," explained Wright. "I would like to try to give his confidence level a boost by making him night watch commander."

"An excellent idea Number One."

Hunter took a sip of his tea as he scanned the reports further. "I also noted that the vulcan science officer will be stationed on the bridge now more frequently..."

"Indeed," said Wright. "Sarik was unable to return to duty, I thoguht it would be best to activate the science station on the bridge."

"I think that is wise," Hunter paused, "are you sure though, that the presence of a young vulcan on the bridge won't be a problem for you?"

"I will be fine Sir," said Wright.

Hunter nodded, "Of course Number One." He returned his attention to the reports.

"Oddly, I don't have the engineering report, I might have uhm..." Hunter looked up from the report, "Do you have that?"

Wright nodded, "Everything is running within normal parameters. Lieutenant Silvio is pleased with the way things are running." Wright paused a moment. "He did report that he placed one of his engineers on leave for two weeks."

"Oh?" said Hunter looking up.

"Ensign Witmore apparently spent his entire shoreleave working and was showing signs of stress."

"Whitmore huh?" Hunter pondered for a couple minutes, "Well, put in a note to Zoei and Dane, he should be evaluated before returning to work."

"Silvio said in his report that he strongly suggested that Whitmore visit the ship's counselor," said Wright.

"Okay, good." Hunter scanned through some more reports, "we have a pregnacy I see."

Wright nodded, "Yes, a young woman named Jaza, from Stellar Cartography," he replied.

"That makes sense," muttered Hunter as he shook his head. "I hope we can get a replacement ASAP. Perhaps we should try and cash in a few favors and get some better science staff."

"Stellar Cartography is probably the most important function," observed Wright. "I hope we can get a good replacement."

Hunter turned off the PADD and put it on his desk. "Time to go to work Number One."

"Yes Sir," said Wright standing up. This was Hunter's customary way of telling him their meeting was over. "Have a good day Captain," said Wright as he left the ready room and took his place on the bridge.