March 9th 2401

Tremt Hunsen had been away from the USS Themis for far too long (well, it had only been for five days, but it felt like a lifetime). He missed the familiar hum of the ship’s engines and the familiar faces of his fellow crewmates. His shuttle, the Hathon, had been his ride back to the Themis. Now as he stepped off the lowered ramp and back onto the starship, he was greeted by the warm smile of Captain Cambil Bexa. 

“Welcome home, Tremt,” the captain said. “We’ve missed you around here.”

Hunsen felt a rush of gratitude towards his captain. Knowing he was appreciated and valued as her first officer was good. He smiled back at Captain Cambil and nodded his head in thanks.

“I’m glad to be back,” Hunsen said. “It’s been a long journey, but I’m ready to return to work.”

Captain Cambil nodded approvingly. “We have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s get to it,” she said. “You know the drill.”

Hunsen grinned. It felt good to be back in the thick of things

As they made their way through the ship, Hunsen felt a sense of comfort settle over him. This was where he belonged – on the USS Themis, exploring the far reaches of space and pushing the boundaries of what was possible. With Captain Cambil by his side, Hunsen knew that he could take on anything that came his way. Well, besides what he had left behind.

“So, how’s Louwanna doing?” Cambil asked as they approached the nearest turbolift. 

Hunsen nodded to confirm she was doing okay. “I think we’ve sorted out our issues, and we left it in a good place for now. In fact, I left her consuming a lot of chocolate, more than normal, but she also has a bizarre craving for Hasperat.”

Cambil chuckled at that news. “I’ll send her my father’s recipe.” Their turbolift soon arrived. “I’m glad though, you both have resolved things.”

As they stepped in and Cambil called for it to take them to the bridge, the doors closed immediately. Now within the private confines of the cart, Hunsen turned to his commanding officer. “So, seriously, how are things going on here?”

She sighed heavily. “I know it’s only been a fortnight, but I miss them so much,” Cambil said, referring to her husband and sons. “I’m still trying to suppress my anger over Starfleet’s orders to remove our entire civilian population.”

“Don’t worry, many on the Odyssey feel the same way,” Hunsen replied. “Louwanna said she’s been worried about those on the senior staff who have become dependable on their family as a source of strength being ripped from them.”

“It’s madness, I tell you,” Cambil stated. She crossed her arms. “The fact we are exploring the Black Cluster and patrolling the Kzinti border seems pointless to me.”

Hunsen agreed with her just as the turbolift arrived on the bridge. “At least it’s given the Triton something to do.” 

Cambil rolled her eyes as she led them off the lift and down the ramp towards the bridge’s centre. Her second officer, Lieutenant Commander T’Rani, sat comfortably in the centre chair. “Report, T’Rani.”

“No updates, ma’am. We continue to hold our current course, and besides detecting a class three comet, sensors have not picked up anything else.” The Vulcan woman replied.

“Starfleet does like chasing comets,” Cambil said dryly. She turned to her first officer, “With me, Number One. T’Rani, the bridge remains yours.” The Bajoran captain said as she gestured for the pregnant pilot to stay where she was while she took Hunsen into the private confines of her ready room on the edge of the bridge. 

Since the two of them had started to serve with each other again (at the beginning of the year), there were many times that Cambil would confide in Hunsen, more so since Starfleet had sent her husband off the ship.

“Hot chocolate?” Cambil offered as she headed towards the replicator.

Hunsen shook his head and hands, “No thanks. Though I love chocolate like any other Betazoid, I’ve seen too much of it while visiting Louwanna. Just a Deka tea, please.”

Laughing somewhat at that, Cambil ordered their drinks. “Two Dekta teas, hot.” The replicator created her request, and she picked them up. Then, gesturing with a nod for Hunsen to take a seat on the long curved corner sofa, she brought their drinks over and handed one over to him. “I don’t think I’ve ever known you to drink anything but hot chocolate.”

Taking the tea, the first officer inclined his head to agree. “I suppose you’re probably right,” Hunsen took a sip. “So what’s the latest with the Themis while I’ve been gone away?”

Leaning towards the small circular coffee table, Cambil picked up a PADD and passed it to him. “Not much, to be honest,” She said as she shared a status report. “Trev and Decter gave up trying to work out what the upgrades to our transporters have done to improve efficiency. But, unfortunately, the new coding doesn’t make our systems any more efficient than what we were told by those engineers on Starbase Thirty-Eight.”

Peering at the report, Hunsen pulled up the summary that their Tellarite chief engineer had created. The inner engineer in Hunsen wanted to see the system analysis himself, but he knew it would require him more time to read it all. “I suppose the fact that the Themis is still relatively new and her refit recently, then there wouldn’t be much difference. But, you want me to take a look at it.”

Cambil shook her head. “Leave it; Decter and Trev spent almost two days on it. I don’t want to waste any more time on it.”

“Talking of our chief operations manager and chief engineer, where are they and the others? I was expecting to see them on duty on the bridge,” Hunsen said, motioning his head towards the door that led back to the bridge.

“Oh, I’ve given them the day off to release some unnecessary tension on the holodeck,” Cambil said as she sipped her drink. “Let’s just say yesterday’s senior staff meeting got a bit tense.”

Hunsen was worried to hear that. “Problems in paradise?”

The captain shook her head as she put her mug in her lap. “I don’t think so. Well, Samris thinks it’s more to do with Starfleet ordering us to evacuate our entire civilian population before being ordered to the Black Cluster.”

“Cancelling our expeditionary in the Delta Quadrant still doesn’t make sense,” Hunsen agreed. “Have we heard any more about what we’re meant to do while on patrol?”

“Not a single word,” Cambil said, starting to sound frustrated herself.

“Have you taken time for yourself, Bexa?” Hunsen asked. She had permitted him to call her by her first name years ago, back on the Odyssey, and that same arrangement existed here on the Themis. “I mean, have you spoken to Naprem or the boys?”

She raised her drink, and before the mug reached her lips, she nodded a bit. The mention of her family did sting. “They’re home, safe on Olbari. Again.”

“That’s good to hear,” Hunsen offered. 

“I told Naprem I was considering putting in a transfer request, and he told me ‘no’ and that I needed to see this out,” Cambil said, motioning to the room around them with her free hand before drinking more. “I’m sure Starfleet wouldn’t approve it or use some stupid ruling that prevents me from leaving again.”

Sensing her mixed feelings of being frustrated and upset, Hunsen knew there weren’t any words he could use to comfort her. So instead, he placed a reassuring hand on her free hand that was now by her side. “Now tell me, what our valiant lot up to on the holodeck?”

Hearing that question made Cambil burst out into laughter. “Oh, Tremt, you will love what I’m about to tell you. But let’s just say it involves all wearing green tights, and Decter is playing some damsel in distress on top of a castle!”

Hunsen was undoubtedly intrigued by that comment and listened intently as he heard what his fellow crew were up to.  

Nottingham Forest was a vast expanse of lush greenery and towering trees that stretched out as far as the eye could see. It was a place of wonder and mystery, where tales of daring feats and heroic adventures were whispered by the wind that rustled through the leaves.

Tucked away in the heart of the forest was the secret hideout of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. It was a place of safety and security where the outlaws could gather together without fear of being caught by the Sheriff’s men. The hideout was hidden away in a dense thicket of trees and was accessible only by a narrow path that wound its way through the forest. Only specific individuals knew how to navigate it.

Once inside the hideout, visitors would find a bustling community of outlaws going about their daily business. Some were cooking food over open fires, while others were sharpening their swords or practising their archery skills. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and brotherhood as the Merry Men banded together to protect the people of Nottingham and stand up against the tyranny of the Sheriff.

Despite the dangers that lurked in the forest, Robin and his band of outlaws continued to fight for what they believed in. They would often venture out into the surrounding area to rob from the rich and give to the poor, always staying one step ahead of the Sheriff’s men.

It wasn’t long before Robin’s exploits became the stuff of legend, and his name was known throughout the land. People would tell tales of his daring deeds and the bravery of the Merry Men, and children would dream of one day joining their ranks.

For many years, Nottingham Forest remained a place of mystery and adventure, and Robin Hood and his Merry Men continued to fight for justice and freedom. And though the forest may have changed over time, the legend of Robin Hood would live on forever, an example of the goodness and bravery that can be found even in the darkest of times.

“I look bloody ridiculous!” Samris complained again as he pulled on the tight-fitted leggings he wore. Alongside his almost revealing bottom wear, Samris yanked on the collar of his green tunic and proceeded to ruffle the brown belt around his hip. The Romulan counsellor was not best pleased with the attached hood that he wore too. “And don’t get me started about wearing all of this over a white shirt. How can we keep ourselves out of sight when this doesn’t match our surroundings?”

Abbej burst out in laughter from where she stood in the middle of their campsite. Playing the lead role of Robin Hood, she wore a similar attire to Samris, along with black leather boots, a quiver of arrows hanging over her left shoulder, and a pointed green hat with a feather. They all looked perfect to play a group of outlaws in the forest. “Come on, Samris, get into the spirit of things.”

“I know, but I think I’d prefer to be the bad guy. The Constable.” Samris stated as he finally sat on a log to stare down at the fire.

“The Sheriff,” She corrected before looking at the other two with them. “Are you both okay with your gear?”

“Yeah, but why are we playing this holonovel?” Lenjir asked as he put down the bow and arrow he had in his hands. 

“It’s escapism, Cline,” Forbes said, sounding a bit exasperated at hearing the same complaints again from both him and Samris. “I thought you both said you were up for an adventure?”

“Yeah, I was going for something a bit more modern,” Lenjir shared. “And comfortable.”

Forbes shook his head. The young doctor looked at what he was wearing.  His attire consisted of a forest green tunic that was both comfortable and durable, while a brown leather vest added an extra layer of protection. Like Abbej, he wore a feathered cap that adorned his head, which gave him a distinctive and charming appearance. He had even styled his beard to match the period’s style. His leather belt held up his dark brown leggings. Last but not least, his sturdy leather boots completed the outfit, providing him with the necessary grip and support to navigate the forest terrain. “I like what I got; maybe we could convince the captain to use these for away missions besides those awful leather field jackets.”

“Please don’t, Remi,” Samris begged.

“Guys, come on, take this seriously. We have a damsel in distress who needs rescuing,” Abbej explained.

“And just how are we meant to save her from this fortress of evil?” Lenjir asked, his tone of voice not sounding that excited about the prospect of actually playing the storyline out.

“It’s called Nottingham Castle,” Forbes corrected the taller, muscular Tiburonian security and tactical chief.

“Whatever,” Lenjir quipped back. “So, what is the plan?” He looked at Abbej.

The Boslic chief science officer was in the role of Robin Hood and went on to explain to them that her character had planned for weeks to rescue Maid Marion from the tall towers of Nottingham Castle. It wouldn’t be easy, but they were determined to save Robin Hood’s beloved. Gathering all his trusted men and the detailed plan would ensure success. “So the first thing we need to do is gather as much information as possible about the castle.”

“We don’t have intelligence about it already?” Samris whined. 

Forbes gently shoved Samris in the back with his knee, which resulted in Samris looking up at his comrade and seeing the expression he was showing. It was one of him telling him to stop complaining. Forbes then went on to make a suggestion. “Could we send out our spies to gather information about the guards, their movements, and the castle’s layout?” 

Abbej gave out a huge grin. “Exactly my thinking, my fellow merry man!” Once we have enough information, we will sneak into the castle disguised as merchants.” She continued explaining the plan to the others, and before they knew it, they were already beginning the rescue attempt.

Moving through the thick woodlands at night, Abbej (as Robin) led her men towards Nottingham Castle. It was hard to describe the grandeur of Nottingham Castle at night time without experiencing it firsthand. As the group walked up the winding path to the castle gates, the towering walls were illuminated by the soft glow of street lamps, casting long shadows on the cobblestone streets below. The air was crisp and cool, and they could hear the distant sound of music and laughter drifting on the breeze.

As they passed through the entrance gates, the group was immediately struck by the stunning view of the castle courtyard. The stone walls were bathed in warm, golden light, and the flagstones gleamed in the moonlight. The castle’s turrets loomed above us, casting long shadows on the ground.

The courtyard itself was a sight to behold. In the centre stood a magnificent fountain, its waters glistening in the moonlight. The statues surrounding it were illuminated from below, creating a haunting, almost ghostly atmosphere. The sound of rushing water filled their ears as they walked around the fountain, taking in the intricate details of each statue. Carefully they avoided bringing much attention to themselves. The crowds were preparing to go home for the evening or continue enjoying themselves at the local taverns. They faded among them.

Overall, Nottingham Castle at night appeared to be a magical experience, but dangers were indeed lying behind its walls for the band of outlaws. 

Robin Hood and her men made their way to the tower where Maid Marion was being held. They planned to use a rope ladder to climb up to the tower window. They would then use a grappling hook to break the window and enter the tower. Slowly and carefully, they were cautious not to make any noise to avoid alerting the guards that patrolled along the turrets and walls of the castle. Though Lenjir and Samris complained a bit about the equipment’s simplicity, both men eventually joined in with their ‘mission’. 

“Just think of this as an away mission set in a pre-warp culture,” Forbes had suggested as they climbed the ladder.

“Yeah, but we would have been able to use the transporter,” Samris had pointed out before he pulled on his tight leggings around his crotch area. “And I’d be in more comfortable clothing. If I can’t be a father again, you will have to deal with T’Rani’s wrath.”

Once they were inside, they needed to be quick and quiet. The tall tower was made of stone. It was old and had clearly been standing for many years. The walls were thick, and there were no windows, making it dark inside. They could hear the sound of the wind whistling through the cracks in the walls and the occasional creaking of the wooden stairs that led up to the prison where Maid Marion was. The tower was a formidable obstacle.

As the group reached the floor where Marion was being kept, they overpowered the guards and approached the wooden door. Then, they opened the door using the keys stolen from the unconscious guards. Opening the door carefully and slowly, the group finally found the person they had come for.

Maid Marion was a vision of loveliness. Her beauty was undeniable and enchanting. Her delicate features captivated the heart, and her gentle voice was soothing to the soul. Her hair flowed like golden silk, and her eyes sparkled like diamonds in the sunlight. She was graceful and elegant, with a kind and caring nature that drew people to her. One couldn’t help but feel at ease and comforted in her presence. Maid Marion was truly a treasure, and anyone who knew her was indeed blessed. 

“I look bloody ridiculous!” complained Decter Jines from where he stood in the centre of the room he had been locked in since they had started this adventure. With his arms crossed against the outfit, he hated that he had been given the role of Maid Marion.

“Dec, you look gorgeous,” Forbes said with a smirk.

“Stunning, in fact,” added Lenjir as he tried to avoid chuckling to himself.

“The outfit suits you!” Samris stated before all three burst out into laughter.

Jines scowled at all three of his so call friends. He wore a gown that was made of the finest silk. The dress was a deep shade of green that perfectly complemented the red wig he wore. It had a fitted bodice that was adorned with intricate lace detailing and a flowing skirt that trailed gracefully behind. He also wore a small gold necklace that had a delicate pendant hanging from it. The outfit was completed with a pair of leather boots that reached up to Jines’ knees. 

“Don’t listen to them, Decter. You look beautiful!” Abbej said with a smile as she approached him.

“Next time we agreed to get the computer to randomise our character choices, I am not playing the damsel in distress! Is that clear?!” Jines insisted as he looked at her and the others. “You wouldn’t believe how many creepy guys I’ve had to push off me while in here.”

“Talking about creepy guys, where’s the Sheriff?” Forbes inquired.

“Probably down in the grand hall enjoying the feast,” Jines answered.

“Then why are we waiting around here? Let’s go!” Lenjir suggested.

The group snuck out of the castle through the secret tunnels they had discovered during their surveillance. Unfortunately, as they were making their escape, they were found by other guards. The guards surrounded the group and called for the Sherrif to arrive.

Moving through the castle at almost warp speed, the Sherrif of Nottingham appeared and approached his new prisoners. There standing almost out of place, was Themis’s chief engineer, Lieutenant Commander Trev Brashlend. He was dressed in a striking outfit that demanded attention. He wore a deep blue velvet coat that was trimmed with gold and adorned with elaborate embroidery. His black trousers were neatly pressed, and his polished leather boots shone in the moonlight. A white ruffled shirt peeked out from beneath his coat, adding a touch of sophistication to his costume. Around his waist, he wore a thick leather belt that held a gleaming gold buckle, and a matching gold chain hung from his pocket. Overall, the outfit was both stylish and authoritative, befitting his position as an influential figure of Nottingham.

“Ah, Robin Hood, I see we meet again, and you won’t get away this time!” Trev declared, doing his best to be in his character.

“See, Trev gets the idea of the program!” Forbes said quietly to both Samris and Lenjir. 

Pulling out her sword and raising it, Abbej remained in character. “If you want me, Sheriff, fight me one on one!”

“A duel you seek?” Trev said. The Tellarite engineer was enjoying himself too much in playing the villain. “Then a duel you will get!”

Robin Hood and the Sheriff of Nottingham faced each other, holding their swords tightly. They had been enemies for a long time, and this was going to be their final showdown.

“Come on, Robin Hood. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time,” Trev said as the Sheriff said with a smirk.

I’m ready when you are,” Abbej replied, her eyes focused on her opponent.

The two charged at each other, their swords clashing in the air. They circled around each other, looking for an opening, a way to win.

“You can’t beat me, Robin. I’m the best swordsman in Nottingham!” Trev boasted. “And Maid Marion is to be my wife!”

“We’ll see about that,” Abbej retorted, thrusting her sword towards Trev.

Trev dodged the attack and counterattacked, but Abbej quickly blocked it. They continued to exchange blows, their swords ringing out in the open air.

“You’re good, Robin. But you’re not good enough,” the Trev taunted. He truly loved every moment of this battle.

Gritting her teeth, Abbej lunged at Trev with all her might. The Tellarite engineer dodged the attack and swung his sword, but once again, Abbej managed to deflect it.

“I’ll never give up, Sheriff. Not until Nottingham is free from your tyranny!” Abbej declared in between breaths.

Snorting like any Tellarite would when rolled up, Trev attacked again, but Abbej was ready for it. She dodged it and struck back, hitting the sword out of his hand.

“Looks like I win, Sheriff,” Abbej said, pointing her sword at her enemy.

Trev glared at her, but he knew he had been defeated. “You may have won this time, Robin Hood. But I’ll be back,” he said.

“Red alert! All hands to battle stations!” declared the captain’s voice over the intercom.

Hearing that news, the Starfleet officers stopped pretending to be the characters they were.

“Computer freeze program,” Forbes ordered immediately.

“I had you then, Trev!” Abbej said as she lowered her sword.

“You wish!” The Tellarite grunted back. “Computer end program.”

The holographic scenery fizzled out of existence, and the group marched quickly out towards the holodeck towards the nearest turbolift.

The bridge of the USS Themis was a flurry of activity as the crew prepared for battle. The red alert signal blared throughout the ship, signalling that they were facing an imminent threat from an enemy vessel. The atmosphere on the bridge was tense, with everyone focused on their tasks and ready to respond to any command given by the captain. The communication systems buzzed with activity as the crew exchanged information and updates while the helm officers plotted the best course to respond. The weapons team was on high alert, preparing to unleash a barrage of firepower against the possible enemy ship. Yet, despite the chaos and tension, the crew of the USS Themis remained calm and resolute, ready to defend their ship and their mission at all costs.

The doors to the turbolift opened, and the missing senior staff all entered, wearing their attire from the holodeck adventures. Cambil and Hunsen looked at them with a surprised reaction. T’Rani raised an eyebrow.

“An interesting styling choice,” The Vulcan pilot said from the helm. 

“Decter, you look gorgeous!” Cambil quipped at her operations officer, which helped calm the tension on the bridge.

Realising he was still in his Maid Marion outfit, Jines sighed heavily and just gave in and headed to his station without further delay. 

As Samris approached the inner circle of the bridge where the captain and first officer sat, he looked at the display on the main viewer. “Who’s sending out the distress call?”

“A Federation freighter, the Violet Serenade, which was on a supply run from Cait,” Hunsen answered.  

“Who would want to steal from the Cait? Is it the Kzinti?” Samris asked.

Cambil shook her head. “No, they’re too deep in Federation space. I can’t see why they would venture so far into our space to attack one of our freighters.”

“We’re approaching the freighter,” T’Rani announced.

Sitting straight in her captain’s chair, Cambil told the pilot to drop them out of warp and ordered Lenjir to ready all weapons.

“I’ve got our damsel in distress on sensors,” Abbej shared from the science station with a smirk. Those that knew what she was referring to shared a short giggle before turning the atmosphere back to a more serious one. She changed the main viewer to show the damaged freighter leaking plasma from both warp nacelles and indicating heavy damage across its hull. Scorch marks were everywhere.

“So Robin Hood, can we work out who stole from the poor to give to the rich?” Jines asked as he examined the sensor readings. 

The exchange made those who had access to the sensors work a bit harder. Why would a standard Federation freighter be attacked? They didn’t carry any cargo worth stealing, and most worlds in the region had access to plenty of food. It made no sense.

“Captain, you’re not going to believe it,” Lenjir stated, “but the weapon signature I’m detecting is Dominion!”

Hearing that news, Cambil stood up. “What? Are you sure you don’t mean the Breen?”

“No, I mean Dominion, ma’am. It is consistent with a Jem’Hadar phased polaron beam-based weapon.” Lenjir explained.

“How?” Hunsen asked; he now stood up beside the captain.

“I am not sure how sir, but we’ve got incoming!” T’Rani declared as she indicated at the three little purple dots accelerating towards them at an impressive speed. 

“Oh shit! Are those what I think they are?” Cambil questioned everyone on her bridge.

“They sure are, ma’am!” Trev responded from the engineering station. “Three Jem’Hadar attack ships are coming in hot and have locked weapons on us.”

“Then let’s do the same and show them we mean business,” Cambil said as she returned to her chair. 

“How the hell did they get here?” Hunsen asked as he rushed over to join Trev at the station behind him.

“We’ll worry about the how and why later, Tremt,” Cambil stated, ordering Lenjir to open fire immediately with everything they had.