New Player, New Game

Marine Contingent Commanding Officer's Log, Stardate 2361246

The death of Lieutenant Commander Shaka and the disappearance of Commander Toran has shown to be a demoralising agent on the Starfleet crew. I noticed this upon overhearing a small conversation between two crewmembers on the way back from the forward shuttle bay. I am sorry to say that I cannot relate to them on this loss. I never had the full opportunity to actually meet and talk to Commander Shaka. I will, however, remember Commander Toran. He was a bright individual with charisma and a strong grasp of the natural world. He will surely be missed by all.

On a happier note, A football game has been scheduled between two squads within the company. Apparently a squad from Lieutenant Truman's platoon upset a squad from Lieutenant J'Lan's and the two would settle the dispute tomorrow afternoon. This is always a welcome sign. The high spirits are a good thing to see, especially when we are trapped in another galaxy." Jon paused briefly to regain his thoughts, and to figure out what he would say next.

I have talked with Captain Devore about putting the Marines on a rotation with Lieutenant Dakul's security force. One squad would take security duty for a day and then have the next day off. It gives each squad one-days vacation once in a while and would further aid the moral around here. It would also give one of Dakul's security teams a break as well, something I'm sure his squad members won't object to.

Lieutenant Truman has volunteered to aid in Engineering. Being a former engineer that was previously under Shaka's command, he feels that he can aid Lieutenant Tyra in repair and upkeep of the slipstream drive.

End Log.

The screen flashed "Log Ended." Jon tapped a key, closing down the computer. He then rose from his seat and stretched out. Jon had been in his office most of the day doing paperwork.

*The joys of being a contingent commander.* He walked forward, and out in to the small waiting room where his assigned assistant sat.

"Leaving sir ?"

"Yes Private. I have some other errands to attend to. You are dismissed for the day if you wish."

"Sir, thank you sir." The private replied, now on his feet.

Jon nodded and made his way in to the corridor. A platoon on their way back from evening phaser training had their weapons slung over their soldier. They saluted as they passed, with Jon saluting as he made his way down the opposite side of the corridor.

The time was coming up on 18:00 hours. Any time after dinner was theirs and the two training holodecks were converted over to holographic bars, pool halls or whatever the majority felt like doing. Personally, Jon preferred McGinnis' Pub. As he continued down the corridor, he saw one Starfleet officer, an Ensign performing some kind of operation in a lower access panel.

"Can I help you Ensign ?" Jon asked.

The man turned around to look at him. "No, that's perfectly all right Major. I can handle this."

Jon grinned. "All right, let me put it this way. Who are you and what are you doing ?"

The Ensign rose from his position and stood to face the Marine CO. "Ensign Morriden, Major."

"Hmm... Morriden... You must be the new Intelligence officer."

"Your sense of deduction is exemplary Major." Morriden gave a confident smile. "You still haven't answered the second part of my question."

"Official business is all I am at liberty to say."

"Really ?" Jon asked.

*Confident indeed. He doesn't acknowledge the fact that I am a superior officer. The last thing I need is dealing with another stuck up, snot nosed, ivy league...*

"You wouldn't mind if I take a look then ?" The Major asked.

"Not at all. You'll find everything in order."

"I'm sure I will." Jon commented. "Next time, I expect you to notify me you are doing work within the Marine decks."

"I will Major. My mistake." He smiled again. "Have a good day." Morriden stepped on to the nearest turbolift and was gone.

"Figures." Jon commented. He looked into the access panel and did not see anything unusual. He tapped his combadge. "Jack."

[Yes sir.] Lieutenant Jack Truman responded.

"Bring your bug finder to Beta Deck. I think we've made a new enemy."

[On my way Major. I'll be there in a minute. Truman out.] The channel closed.

*A new challenge from a new intelligence officer. It's nice to see that the Marines are up there on the priority list.*