<br/>Katherine sat at the end of the conference table, idly listening to the chatter going on around her, when a hush descended, causing her to look up as General Landry, Dr. Heath and another uniformed officer entered the conference room and moved to stand together front and centre.  Recognizing the second officer as Captain Hunter from the photo in his personnel file, she thought him more attractive in person and noted he definitely had presence.   Then, General Landry started speaking and she quickly turned her attention to him.<br/><br/>Once he dispensed with the introductions of the two at his side, he briefly outlined the scope and goals of the mission.  He was very careful not to draw attention to the slim likelihood of anyone making it back, but it was a palpable truth, and one that was bound to cast a shadow over the proceedings.  She carefully watched the reactions from people around her as the General spoke, and saw a mixture of trepidation, excitement, and worry, from everyone...everyone that is except the new Captain.  Actually, she didn’t sense anything from him at all, and that was curious because she was usually very good at reading people.<em>Oh well, it’s probably just that military façade all the senior officers manage to pull off so well.</em><br/><br/>The General offered a few facts and insights, then motioned for Dr. Heath to speak, and she added her own perspective on what had just been said. “Ladies and gentlemen...allow me to congratulate you on being selected to join our elite team of experts.  Each one of you brings a wealth of skills and knowledge that will be vital on this mission.  As the General just told you, there is currently a crew stranded aboard a craft called “The Destiny”, and while one of our goals is to find and assist them in any way possible, it is more important that we learn as much as we can about our ship’s technology so we can control it and use it to our benefit.  Our ability to do this could very well be the Destiny crew’s best chance of getting home.”  She paused and smiled. “I know you all must have a million questions,” she held up her hands just as the man sitting next to Katherine began to speak and silenced him, “however, please understand that due to security considerations, there will be no further discussion until we reach our next destination tomorrow.”  Turning her gaze on the General she said, “I believe we are leaving first thing at 0800?”  He nodded.  “Very well,” she said, “we’ll reconvene here tomorrow morning at 0700. Until then I suggest you all try to get some rest, and I promise you will have every opportunity to ask your questions once we arrive at the base. ”<br/><br/>As soon as she finished, heated discussion ensued among the civilians while the troops remained at attention and quiet, clearly under orders not to say anything.  Rising from her chair Katherine walked over to Dr. Heath and said, “I think that went well.  People seem to be comfortable with the information so far, and though some seemed impatient for more details, they’ll have more than they know what to do with once we reach Icarus Base.”  Turning to Captain Hunter, she smiled. “Allow me to introduce myself…I’m Dr. Katherine Randall.” Extending her hand she said, “Welcome to the team.”<br/>