********USS GOTT deck three, aft************** Hawk wedged his body in between the metal brace and the wall and began to push. He was attempting to place some internal bracing just inside the hull in this spot and weld it into place. After getting power systems to an adequate place the focus shifted to making sure the ship itself would survive the trip. He was on his third hull reinforcement and there were several yet to go. All in all the Gott was going to be ready, (if you could be ready for this type of stress) within a very short period of time. His engineering chief was directing final points of repair and reinforcement all over the ship. He hadn't seen Rick too much since they moved over to the Gott. Aside from the bug explosion he hadn't seen him at all, but spoke through comm countless times. Guess there would be time for socialization when they reach civilization. Another thought occurred to Hawk as he began to weld the placed beam. He had served on two ships thus far in his career. Now it seems a third was in order. He seemed a bit frightened at hat prospect. The crew could likely be reassigned all around the fleet for all he knew. Whatever the outcome though the time spent on the Chimera would never be forgotten. "Hmmmm....maybe they will give use a new girl with an A on the end of her name. Nice new numbers to go along with it." Hawk said aloud as he blew out part of the bulkhead that burned a little after he finished his weld. Another scan and the stress was clearly diverted to the placed beam. He reported in that the major reinforcements were completed, now he was onto his next repair. Hopefully, while trying to figure out his next repair Hawk will be able to take his mind off his aching back. Ever since the X'Chi knocked him down in engineering it had been hurting, but with all the repairs needed he couldn't be bothered with an ache. He wasn't bleeding and he doubted that it was anything more than a strain or bruise, oh well it can wait..... ========================================================= LT jg Hawk Versey AEO USS Chimera