Exeter Compile 11 Dates: August 8, 2020 to August 14, 2020 Mission: The Flames of Purity, Day 15 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 15 Stardate: 2445.09.15 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Bridge - ACFO Ens(sg) Trinity Frost - 1547) (USS Exeter -Shuttlebay 2 - ACFO Ens(sg) Trinity Frost - 1555) (USS Exeter -Deck 8- Section 9- COB MCPO Erik Knight- 1600) (USS Exeter, Bridge - aOPS, Ensign M'Rurrh - 1603) (USS Exeter -Deck 8- Section 9- SFI Agent - MCPO – Rebecca Faust - 1605) (USS Exeter - CSO Office - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper- 1614) (USS Exeter - CSO Office - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 1617) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez -1659) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove -1717) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams -1718) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove -1719) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams -1720) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek -1733) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge – FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken -1734) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge - Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 1735) (USS Exeter - Bridge - aCTO/COO Lieutenant jg Ravok- 1739) (USS Exeter – Turbolift – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek & aCTO/COO Lieutenant jg Ravok – 1747) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge - Sec/Tac Ensign Paul Sleeford 17:48) (USS Exeter- Deck 9- recreation directors office- Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams & Sec/tac. PO3 Sytuk- 1749) (USS Exeter - Outside Observation Lounge - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper 17:50) (USS Exeter - Outside Observation Lounge - ACMO Ens Kasian Poldan 17:51) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper 17:52) (USS Exeter - FOs Office - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken - 1752) (USS Exeter – Deck 3, Personal Quarters – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1752) (USS Exeter -Observation Lounge - CMO Ens Gabe Vespers 1800) (USS Exeter - Observation lounge - Sec/Tac Officer -ensign -Paul Sleeford - 1801) (USS Exeter -Observation Lounge - ACMO Ens Kasian Poldan 1803) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - Tac/Sec - Ens. Stan More – 18:06) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - SPC Ensign Rylee Page – 18:10) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 1830) (USS Exeter- Armoury- Sec/Tac Officer Ensign Paul Sleeford 18:30) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - Tac/Sec Ens. Stan More – 18:31) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CFO - Lieutenant (JG) – Ire Williams - 1832) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- Sec/Tac PO3 Sytuk(spc)-1832) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - SPC Ensign Rylee Page – 18:33) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken - 1833) (USS Exeter – Intelligence Section – SFI Agent – MCPO – Rebecca Faust -1833) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek -1833) (USS Exeter – Bridge - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 1833) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – SPC Ensign Greta Smith -1834) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - Sec/Tac Ens. Stan More - 18:34) (USS Exeter – Steller cartography – Science Officer – Ensign – David Clarke - 1834) (USS Exeter –Sickbay– Nurse – CPO – Ewan McDonald- 1836) (USS Exeter - Bridge - aCTO/COO Lieutenant jg Ravok- 1836) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- Ensign SG Billy Alexander - 1836) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- ACMO Ens Kasian Poldan- 1837) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room Two – Engineer – Ensign – Galu Vozi - 1837) (USS Exeter - Transporter room two - Ensign Stan More - 18:39 ) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1840) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – MO, Ensign SG Kyros Ryelle - 1841) (Asteroid Base – Outer Storage Bay – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1843) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 1845) (USS Exeter - Nine and Dine - R&SE Director Ashlyn Williams and Bar Manager Caity DuBois - 1850) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters - R&SE Director Ashlyn Williams and Bar Manager Caity DuBois - 1855) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Begin Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Flames of Purity Day: 15 Stardate: 2445.09.15 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Exeter - Bridge - ACFO Ens(sg) Trinity Frost - 1547) "Now is not the best time Ensign, but it's damn good to see you." “My apologies for the delay. I got held up, and it’s good to see you again.” "Listen, I'm swamped with meetings. But we can catch up later. Listen, You're the ACFO in charge of support craft. Best to head down to the Shuttlebays, not the main one, it's being used as a triage. Seek out Ensign Isra Tiar. She's our lead shuttle bay technician. Schedules shuttle maintenance, upkeep, etc. While you are in charge of scheduling pilots and the like. It would be good to touch base, build up a friendship. Y'all will be working closely together." “Understood. It’ll be nice to be working closely with dedicated able people Sir.” "It's really good to see you Trinity, dismissed." “You too Sir, thank you.” She nodded an acceptance of the dismissal and then left the room, headed toward the turbolift, and shuttlebay 2. (posted by Mark) (USS Exeter -Shuttlebay 2 - ACFO Ens(sg) Trinity Frost - 1555) Trinity took a few moments in the lift to gather her wits. This was so different. Her early life had been difficult, and life at the Academy had been strict, and rigid. Once she’d got to Mars, and gained her rating on the new Valkyrie V life had suddenly switched. It was she who ran a tight ship, desiring excellence from her team; and now she stepped out into the expanse of shuttlebay 2 on the Exeter. She felt herself tingle, nerves and a hint of edginess for the job at hand. She caught sight of a young, dark haired Ensign of Trill parentage, across the deck. Ensign Tiar? (Reply Tiar) Trinity held out her hand, "Trinity Frost, Im the new ACFO in charge of support craft. Pleased to meet you." (Reply Tiar) (posted by Mark(as SPC)) (USS Exeter -Deck 8- Section 9- COB MCPO Erik Knight- 1600) “What can I do for you COB?” The intelligence agent asked him. Erik stood still, looking out the window into the raging plasma fields of the badlands. "They're so inexperienced, drastically under qualified, yet here they are, running full steam at an opponent that has no banner of a world or a government, but an idea" Erik said as he turned to Faust and looked at her. " Kids, Faust , these are children." He said shaking his head and stepping toward her looking her dead in the eye." WHAT THE HELL IS STARFLEET THINKING ?" He yelled. ( reply) " Faust, You may serve the department of that walking time bomb ,Foxglove or whatever the hell she is calling herself these days, but you are an enlisted crewmember on this ship and I am going to give you a direct order. " If you come across anything and I MEAN anything, whether it be a transmission, a signal, a broadcast, even a damned message from starfleet themselves that has any information that could jeopardize the safety of the crew you are to report it to me immediately, is that understood?" Erik ordered with thunder in his voice. Things weren't adding up and Erik did not like the mentality present in nearly all intelligence agents, that they and they alone decided what people should know. Erik had been witness to several firsthand accounts of intelligence concealing information from the commanding officer of a vessel they served on. A decision made on the agent's own discretion ( reply Faust) ( posted by Rob Davis (Spc ) Erik Knight ) (USS Exeter, Bridge - aOPS, Ensign M'Rurrh - 1603) After a brief handover from Ensign Page at the Operations station, M'Rurrh had approached Lieutenant Ravok and enquired what he had wanted to talk about. "Look Ensign," he began his reply. ~Uh oh - this sounds like trouble.~ "..for the time being I am being asked to oversee the tactical department. I need you to handle Operations, I know you can do it. Tactical is a lot more delicate and requires... A tighter leash." M'Rurrh had heard enough snatches of rumour to have an idea what he meant, but was too professional to mention it on the bridge. She blinked back an embarrassed smirk as Ravok continued, "So as assistant chief of operations I say this, Ops is yours, work closely with Science and keep the department in one piece for me." Stunned, the Caitian stammered in reply, "Sir, yes sir, aye sir." Fortunately her response didn't seem to cause any change of heart with Ravok as he moved back to the command chair, leaving her to her station and *her* department. (Reply none) (Posted by MCD) (USS Exeter -Deck 8- Section 9- SFI Agent - MCPO – Rebecca Faust - 1605) "They're so inexperienced, drastically under qualified, yet here they are, running full steam at an opponent that has no banner of a world or a government, but an idea" She saw Knight turn from the window and look at her. " Kids, Faust , these are children." She nodded. " WHAT THE HELL IS STARFLEET THINKING ?" She saw the frustration on Knights face and decided to reply as honestly as she could “They took what they had and deployed with it. Was it a smart idea probably not should we have had more time totally but you and me a have been around for while to know how things go.” " Faust, You may serve the department of that walking time bomb ,Foxglove or whatever the hell she is calling herself these days, but you are an enlisted crewmember on this ship and I am going to give you a direct order. If you come across anything and I MEAN anything, whether it be a transmission, a signal, a broadcast, even a damned message from starfleet themselves that has any information that could jeopardize the safety of the crew you are to report it to me immediately, is that understood?" She paused for a split second before answering. Being an SFI Agent meant that she had secrets of her own to keep but ship and crew safety was a priority that did not conflict with her others. “Yes Erik. If I come across information that would jeopardize the safety of the crew I will pass it to you.” (Reply Knight) “Is there something specific that you are thinking about? Apart from the Bajorans that is?” (Reply Knight) (Posted by Robbie)(SPC Rebecca Faust) (USS Exeter - CSO Office - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper- 1614) "Go right ahead, Doctor." Gabe ignored her, he was trying to make sense of the reams of numbers rolling on the screen. He heard the hypo being placed down and he gave an annoyed grunt at being disturbed. The small silence interrupted by the woman's sigh. Blinking Gabe scratched the back of his head his now almost permiate false smile locked in place he looked over to the women. "Are you ok?" Gabe tried to not sound condescending, unsure really if he succeeded. "It's nothing really. Just that this has been a pet project of mine for nearly a year. I was beginning to think that we would never be using it in the field so to speak." Gabe let out an unintended laugh "I have a whole cupboard full of those, infact one of the spare med labs is housing my experiments" Nodding, Erin took a seat next to him, "That slight irritation I mentioned, maybe… once your tests are done, we could find a way to add an antihistamine or something of the kind into the hypospray so it can be administered at the same time. Gabe looked across silently in reply. "I know. You're the doctor, I'm the mad scientist. " she replied with a wry smile. "That's one way to put it" Gabe returned to the screen, shifting slightly away placing some space between them. "I'm sure some of the crew think I'm a little bit off kilter for want of a better word. I mean, after all, who can't be taken over by a mad cardassian scientist and come away from that just the same as you were?" "Someone that's been treated by one of the best neurologists we have." Gabe replied trying not to get pulled in. "So, what do you think, Doctor? Are they going to work?" Erin said after a moment. "Assuming you mean the chips and not your Cardasian friend, yes, they'll be fine. The projections show that we should get one lightyears range at best from it, that's pushing it. We won't get an exact location at that range but at least it will give us something to go by. " (Reply Cortez) "Listen, I'm not a people person, I'm sorry. Im an Engineer in a blue uniform. Whislt I can't talk you through your problems; I'm sorry you've had a hard time I really am, but beyond the physical I can't help you." Gabe picked up a chip "these on the other hand, these may have just saved three crewmembers lives. The anti-inflammatory we can work on when the mission is over, we inject into the feet for now, too much on our plates to deal with otherwise. But when we are back, these become a refined reality." (Reply Cortez) (Reply Cortez, any) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - CSO Office - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 1617) "Assuming you mean the chips and not your Cardasian friend, yes, they'll be fine. The projections show that we should get one lightyears range at best from it, that's pushing it. We won't get an exact location at that range but at least it will give us something to go by. " "Then, at least something good will come of that whole debacle. " Erin replied. ~despite everything, it still haunts me.~ she thought to herself. "Listen, I'm not a people person, I'm sorry. Im an Engineer in a blue uniform. Whilst I can't talk you through your problems; I'm sorry you've had a hard time I really am, but beyond the physical I can't help you." She watched as he picked up the hypospray that carried the three microscopic crystals, "These on the other hand, these may have just saved three crewmembers lives. The anti-inflammatory we can work on when the mission is over, we inject into the feet for now, too much on our plates to deal with otherwise. But when we are back, these become a refined reality." Erin froze, a thought entered her mind that hadn't been there for a long, long time. Not knowing really how to respond, she fixed a stoic look on her face and nodded. "Then, Doctor, I hand over custody of delta, echo and blue to you. I hope that they help. Tell whoever scans for them that they seem to vibrate somewhere along the 456 frequency of resonance." (Reply Vespers) Standing, Erin wondered for a moment if she should hold out her hand but decided against it. "Doctor, I am pleased that I could help. Now, if you don't mind, i have a few things to do before i head to the bridge." (Reply Vespers) Nodding a response, Erin turned on her heels and headed out into the main lab, taking a seat at a console. As her fingers typed, she could tell that something was different, something deep inside her. ~he has no clue what he just said…. What it meant to me~ she thought as she began to write up some crew evaluations. ~ this whole thing, dulon, what he put me through… I've allowed it to affect me more than I admit. Somehow, in one sentence… a throwaway remark, he just… ~ Erin looked up at the console screen and tilted her head slightly. Something in the reflection caught her eye and she reached up and touched her face. A tear ran down her cheek. Wiping it away, she took a small, slightly shaky breath and closed her eyes. ~no more. I won't let him or anything in my past affect me. That was the old me. I acknowledge my past, what happened, what I went through. But no more will it dictate who I am now.~ (posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez -1659) Stepping out of the turbo lift, Erin stood straight and tall. A new air about her. Walking to the science station, she took her seat, set up her display and began to run scans of the badlands, making sure that they had what data they needed to get them to their destination safely. Forwarding that data through to Tactical and the commander's console, Erin settled herself, ready for whatever came their way. (Reply Vespers, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove -1717) "Lieutenant? Lieutenant, have you even listened to anything I just said?" Trip asked as he looked over at Jaelle. "Sorry sir." She spoke softly. "Just lost in thought for a moment." (Reply Trip) "I understand the need to place everyone in situations. To see if they will rise to the occasion. That's why didn't bring it up. I just hope the choices that were made work out for all involved." She shook her head Lily's voice still echoing in her mind. "I've always been one to place the needs of the crew over myself. Anyone who is familiar with my past knows I take it personally if someone is lost and I could of done something to stop it." It was the way she became, after one death defying mission after another. After holding the line time after time. If she could use who and what she was to save another then maybe just maybe there was some good to come out of her torment. If she could save another even of it meant her life she would make that trade. But now she was the one being left behind while her loved one was placed in harms way. She placed her hand over her heart and grabbed her chest has conflicted emotions assailed her. It was a pain she had only felt once in her past before, a tearing away at her soul. It was helplessness she could not stand for. (Reply Trip, iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams -1718) "Sorry sir." She spoke softly. "Just lost in thought for a moment." "It happens, though it's best not to do the daydreaming on the bridge." Trip said with a chuckle. "I understand the need to place everyone in situations. To see if they will rise to the occasion. That's why didn't bring it up. I just hope the choices that were made work out for all involved." She shook her head Lily's voice still echoing in her mind. "I've always been one to place the needs of the crew over myself. Anyone who is familiar with my past knows I take it personally if someone is lost and I could of done something to stop it." "There is only one person who should have to feel that way Lieutenant, and it's the Captain. I'm the one who puts the plan and people in place. The thing is Lieutenant, if you dwell on what if's and guilts, you just get stuck in the past. There is always going to be a scenario where you will feel like you could have made a difference. But you can't live in the what ifs or the guilt. It's a form of mental quicksand." (reply Foxglove) "Honestly Lieutenant," Trip said hushing his tone. What he wanted to say, and what he was thinking was, ~If you really feel feel strongly about something happening and not being able to do something to stop it when you feel you could have, maybe it's time to come out of the cold, get your original rank restored and take command of one of the new ships they are cranking out.~ But he knew that would have been inappropriate. "I need you to trust me on this. It's my job to place the people where they need to be. And your expertise is better suited on the bridge. If we get ambushed by the other ships, you will be needed more up here than down there." (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CIO/3O Lieutenant JG Jaelle Foxglove -1719) "... a from of mental quicksand." The Captain spoke in hushed tones. It seemed he needed the conversation just had badly as she did. She shook her head while the Captain was the absolute authority of the Exeter she refused to believe he also was the sole responsibility. "I'm sorry sir and while I see your point I don't believe that. Just like the Doctors are responsible for the well-being of all the crew. The counselor's are responsible for the mental health of all on board. Tactical is responsible for or safety. We all work together for a common goal." She sighed deeply. "As the saying goes it takes a community to raise a child. This crew, this ship is everyone's child, and every life harmed or lost changes her. It not about rank, or even who I was, If we don't protect what we care about then what are we fighting for." "Honestly Lieutenant," Trip said hushing his tone. "I need you to trust me on this. It's my job to place the people where they need to be. And your expertise is better suited on the bridge. If we get ambushed by the other ships, you will be needed more up here than down there." You didn't need to be a telepath to know there was more under the surface. Jaelle could guess at what that was she knew his father supplied Trip with her file, that he knew some about her past. But the reason she was not instated at her rank was an issue that was out of her hands. "I do trust you. In the time you've known me have you ever known me to keep my opinions silent. Your the one who brought it up and if there is something ever on your mind you want to ask. Please do so?" (Reply Trip) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams -1720) "I do trust you. In the time you've known me have you ever known me to keep my opinions silent. You're the one who brought it up and if there is something ever on your mind you want to ask. Please do so?" "I brought up, because I'm a good reader of faces Foxglove. I could see it right there, that metaphorical voice in the back of your head, wondering why I didn't put you on the team. Just wanted you to know my thought process. Put those doubts to bed." (reply Foxglove iyw) "Yes it's a community, but it's still my call, life is messy, and things aren't always under our control. You shouldn't let the fact that you aren't there be a reason for you to feel guilt or shame or whatever." ~Seriously, I get it, you should be in this chair, you're like 100 years old, with who knows how many years of experience. But....I can't have you going all guilt or whatever if things go wrong and you're not there. Honestly its easy for a batter on the bench to wonder or say, had they been at the plate they might have gotten that game winning hit instead of striking out. But that's not healthy, and there is no way to truly know if you could have made a difference without paradox inducing time travel... But we'll see if the white haired know it all over here.... Trip, breathe....you're showing your age here. You're acting like a 23 year old....well you are a 23 year old. Foxglove means well. You know that. Chillax dude. Chillax. You're making the right call. Foxglove doesn't have Merek's engineering specialization and Ailynn needs to get her feet wet. I trust Lynn to kick ass. And having Foxglove up here will be useful if the enemy ships show up.~ (reply Foxglove) "Anyways look, we could talk about this all day. Probably best if we focus on the task at hand. Any unusual comm chatter?" (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek -1733) “Our mission is as follows. We are to be beamed aboard as two separate teams. Beta team, led by Lieutenant Merek, will be composed of Ensigns Vosi, Michaels, More and Smith, and will hit the Engineering section. Priority will be to make sure that we can communicate with each other, Ensign Michaels you’re our geologist. We’ll need you up to speed on structure and composition of the asteroid and its remnants nearby, advise on how that will affect comms and our chances of safe extraction. Beta team will then gain access and cripple the asteroids systems, preventing anyone from using the base. Ensign Vosi, you’re up assisting Merek, Ensign Michaels, you’re field medic certified, so you’ll be doubling up.” “I’ve analyzed the schematics of what was there when Starfleet left it after removing the Marquis. They are powered by two fusion reactors and a series of dozens of back up batteries as Auxillary. If we power down both reactors they should have limited capabilities to power systems. They will have to start prioritizing. If it’s timed correctly, Alpha team taking over the command center will not allow them to do so, the system should automatically go into a power save mode taking power from costly systems like defense and leaving the computer core and life support as your main power draws, allowing us to complete our mission.” Keira reported when allowed time to speak. “I also believe we should use the opportunity to plant explosives to destroy the base to prevent future groups from using it like this group has.” (Reply Bracken) “Agreed. That’s why we should take them all with us and leave the asteroid devoid of life before we detonate the charges.” Keira said. “ We can use isolinear tags which can be fired at a distance. Once it hits the target, in this case a lifeform that doesn’t want to go willingly it will beam that lifeform directly to the brig. The transporters will automatically separate the assailants from their weapons if we program it to do so.” (Reply Bracken) “Class II tricobalt devices should be sufficient to crack a hole in the asteroid, provided they are placed it key locations.” Merek suggested. “Ensign Michaels, what do you think? Are five or six class II mining explosive large enough to crack open the asteroid to make it unusable?” (Reply Michaels) (Reply Bracken w/ decision) After that discussion had been tabled one of the security officers had brought up a point about the bio-explosive that some of the cult members had been using and retrofitting a grenade type device to deliver the antidote. Honestly Keira wished she had remembered the organic explosive. “Lieutenant Merek, anything to add?” the First Officer’s voice for the second time today snapped her out of a trance, this time she was lost in thought about the organic explosive. “We could use the same device to deliver the organic explosive neutralizing agent, and the isolinear tag. In times past they used to use a compressed air rifle to deliver a dart to sedate animals it was too dangerous to get close to. These plans can be replicated. We fill the dart with the neutralizing agent and have an isolinear tag built into the dart as he said, killing two birds with one stone.” She continued. “Allows us to remove a treat and clear as we go. Their belongings can be separated from them mid transport to allow security to go through them at a later time and turn in to the nearest star base.” (Reply any) (posted by Todd) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge – FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken -1734) “I’ve analyzed the schematics of what was there when Starfleet left it after removing the Marquis. They are powered by two fusion reactors and a series of dozens of back up batteries as Auxillary. If we power down both reactors they should have limited capabilities to power systems. They will have to start prioritizing. If it’s timed correctly, Alpha team taking over the command center will not allow them to do so, the system should automatically go into a power save mode taking power from costly systems like defense and leaving the computer core and life support as your main power draws, allowing us to complete our mission.” Keira reported when allowed time to speak. “I also believe we should use the opportunity to plant explosives to destroy the base to prevent future groups from using it like this group has.” “Good call; we’ll be in place by then and should have locked systems down. However, no one is left on board. I will not sanction that kind of potential loss of life.” Ailynn answered simply. “Agreed. That’s why we should take them all with us and leave the asteroid devoid of life before we detonate the charges.” Keira said. “ We can use isolinear tags which can be fired at a distance. Once it hits the target, in this case a lifeform that doesn’t want to go willingly it will beam that lifeform directly to the brig. The transporters will automatically separate the assailants from their weapons if we program it to do so.” “Excellent work.” A thought nudged her. “This was carved out of an asteroid, that means weak points, fissures, who knows what, we have stuff that could crack it open yeah?” “Class II tricobalt devices should be sufficient to crack a hole in the asteroid, provided they are placed it key locations.” Merek suggested. “Ensign Michaels, what do you think? Are five or six class II mining explosive large enough to crack open the asteroid to make it unusable?” As the conversation drifted, Ailynn found her role turn to more of a facilitator, different departments putting forward ideas to solve a range of problems that lay ahead of them. “We could use the same device to deliver the organic explosive neutralizing agent, and the isolinear tag. In times past they used to use a compressed air rifle to deliver a dart to sedate animals it was too dangerous to get close to. These plans can be replicated. We fill the dart with the neutralizing agent and have an isolinear tag built into the dart as he said, killing two birds with one stone.” She continued. “Allows us to remove a treat and clear as we go. Their belongings can be separated from them mid transport to allow security to go through them at a later time and turn in to the nearest star base.” “Again, Ailynn nodded. I know the type of thing you mean. If you have time, run with it. Gives us another option beyond the explosives, if those are a bust.” (Reply Merek iyw, any) (Posted by Mark) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge - Assistant CScio - Ensign SG – Adala Michaels - 1735) Adala listened to the briefing and glanced around the room at those with her, her gaze stopping briefly on those who were in her team. "Ensign Michaels you’re our geologist. We’ll need you up to speed on the structure and composition of the asteroid and its remnants nearby, and advise on how that will affect comms and our chances of safe extraction." "Ensign Michaels, you’re field medic certified, so you’ll be doubling up.” "Understood Sir" were her only words. She wasn't exactly ectatic about having to double up on this mission, she knew her job, knew what she would have to do and began to mentally prepare. The conversation and discussion continued around the table. “Class II tricobalt devices should be sufficient to crack a hole in the asteroid, provided they are placed at key locations.” Merek suggested. “Ensign Michaels, what do you think? Are five or six class II mining explosives large enough to crack open the asteroid to make it unusable?” Adala nodded. "That should work Sir." So much, happening so fast but she knew her job, knew what could and should be done. Adala didn't say anything else but listened in silence to the rest of the meeting and took in the faces of those around her. How many would come back, would she? she had to wonder. (Reply Bracken, Merek, Any .. IYW) (Posted by Kathleen) (USS Exeter - Bridge - aCTO/COO Lieutenant jg Ravok- 1739) ~ I hope everything is ok ~ Ravok thought as he looked towards the door leading to the observation lounge. He was at the tactical station running simulations based off their earlier encounter with the sabre, he was recalibrating the targeting algorithms to devise more effective firing patterns of the Exeter's phasers . Hopefully the Exeter would be able to more quickly and effectively shut down the primary systems of the sabers. He was attaching firing patterns to suggested flight patterns for Ire to review. " Angle 52 degrees port to 38 degrees fore. " Ravok mumbled to himself in romulan as he ran through his calculations. ~ If we have them chase us and maintain our axis yet move at a ventral leading 45 degree slide and pull an all stop, the sabre could pass right over us. Allowing for dorsal targeting on their ventral hull. Phasers would hit almost instantly but if we all stop and slam Ventral thrusters on the port side and simultaneously fire the dorsal thrusters on starboard, we could hit with them right on the belly with portside photons and really shake things up. ~ He thought to himself as he configured the maneuver into the battle maneuvers. ~ Ire and Ronnie could pull this off with no problem. Come to think of it this seems like something right out of Trip's playbook.~ He continued to ramble in his own head. Trip was not an elite fighter pilot by any means but he could devise attack patterns better than anyone else. Trip's attack formations read like a quantum mechanics report, formulations of mathematical perfection. Ravok looked up from his terminal and glanced around the bridge. ~ This view is much better ~ He thought. ( reply none needed but welcome) ( posted By Rob Davis) (USS Exeter – Turbolift – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek & aCTO/COO Lieutenant jg Ravok – 1747) Keira exited the observation lounge out onto the bridge. After the way she felt when Ravok had went on a dangerous mission with out letting her know, the First Officer’s order to speak with loved ones or spend time with them, had hit especially hard. She knew he had duties too, for the upcoming conflict. Her intent was to steal him a way for a moment or two and speak, then go record a message for her parents. She found him quickly, she always did. “Lieutenant Ravok, may I have another moment of your time?” she asked. Ravok looked at her and stood up from the tactical station. " Aye Sir." He said, turning to a Tactical officer who was at the tactical readout wall behind him. " Cover me for a moment would you ?" The tactical officer assumed the station and Ravok followed Keira. She led the way to the turbolift. The doors whooshed behind them. “Deck 3” she said. " Is everything alright?" He asked. Ravok could sense Keira was trying to hold her composure. He knew her well enough to read her pretty well. Where most saw a cold and direct woman of duty, he saw a loving and loyal person who would do anything for anyone. “Halt lift.” She held his hands in hers, and gazed into his eyes as the lift came to a sudden halt. [The lift has been halted. If you require assistance just say: “Computer, Help.” Or use your communicator to contact sickbay, engineering or request a site to site transport.] He looked back at her into her grey eyes. She ignored the computer’s standard help prompt and spoke.” I wanted to let you know that I’ve been chosen to lead Beta team on an away mission to the Prophet’s Fire asteroid base, and I will likely be put in harm’s way.” She continued, the damn had been cracked now everything she had been holding back was leaking. “The thought of you leaving on an away mission with out even saying good bye, the last thing you saw from me was an angry face…I don’t want that to be our ending note, ever. I… you’re the best thing that’s happened to me other than Starfleet and I don’t know what I’d do with out you.” Ravok smiled as she talked. " You are to me as well." He responded, squeezing her hands gently. “That being said, if I don’t make it….” She said. " Stop it , your going to make it. " He said quickly pulling her into a hug. " Disira, dont do this to yourself. You are going to make it" Ravok said, He had to do this time and time again to countless members of the fighter wing. Who were constantly sure, they'd never see home again. He'd assure them time and time again that if they were sure they'd returned home, they would have something to fight for. “Lathuel, if I don’t make it I don’t want some impersonal electronically signed letter informing my folks of my demise and my sacrifice for the good of the galaxy. I’m going to record something, tell them a few last words, you and Trip have to deliver it.” She said. "Isn't that alot of pomp and circumstance ?" He smirked. Trying to ease the tension with a moment of humor. “Yes, I want all the ceremony and tradition. You have to get into your dress uniform and show off all those medals. Trip has to go by tradition, as he’s the commanding officer, if Bracken survives, she’ll insist on going, you are the one who knows me the most of anyone here, so you go too. I want you to hand my parents the isolinear chip that will have my final message on it, it will be locked and encrypted, it will only unlock in the event of my death.” She said. Ravok shook her gently and looked her in the face. " You're worrying too much, overthinking it. This entire situation isn’t some anomalous reading in Engineering. But of course I'd do that for you. I'm sure Trip would as well. " “Thank you, it means a lot to me.” She said, “resume.” The lift jolted slightly letting them know it had started up again. ~Why couldn’t the lift have stuck now.~ She mused. Seconds later the doors opened on deck three with the tell-tale swoosh. She gave Ravok a peck on the cheek as she left the turbolift. "Thanks for the ride, flyboy.” She said with a grin. “Hey, aren’t you supposed to be on the bridge? Get to your station, Lieutenant.” She said with a giggle as the lift door began to close. Ravok held his hand out and stopped the door. He walked up behind her. " I'm not normally one to defy orders from a superior officer, but...I'm not above a reprimand. " He said as he grabbed her arm and pulled her to him and kissed her. " I love you Disira " He smiled. "I love you too, but I got to go.” She said with a smile. " Now I'll return to the Bridge." He laughed and walked back to the turbolift. (posted by Rob and Todd) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge - Sec/Tac Ensign Paul Sleeford 17:48) Sleeford perched himself on the sill of a window, folded his hand in his lap and stared out into space, his thoughts where jumbled, for the first time he was nervous about going into a combat situation. When he joined the OTC after leaving school he like all his year group had recorded ‘letters’ home, as a precaution against future actions that lead to their deaths. At the age of nineteen he’d found it strange to think about his mortality. As his training had progressed he’d seen the wisdom as three members of his group had died when their ground vehicle had exploded after being badly maintained, the shock had been felt throughout the course. He’d counted himself lucky over the years that there’d been no one special in his life, now that was beginning to change, staring out at the colours of the plasma discharges had a mildly hypnotic effect and made Sleeford’s thoughts about life seem trivial. As he sat there he thought about his life, the decisions he’d made, good and bad, right and wrong, some of them he’d made and afterwards realised he’d been foolish, this afternoon’s actions had prove that, as he’d been told, the past was gone, look to the future, he was on a great new ship, with a good crew and for the first time In his life he’d meet someone who he was serious about. The sound of the door opening broke through Sleeford’s thoughts, glancing over his shoulder he nodded to the new arrival and pushed off the sill. (reply any) (Posted by Alistair) ( USS Exeter- Deck 9- recreation directors office- Dir. R&SE Ashlyn Williams & Sec/tac. PO3 Sytuk- 1749) After hearing Lieutenant Bracken's suggestion Sytuk thought about her words. They had a profound effect on him. While others were off to spend time with loved ones or record messages, Sytuk knew he had to go speak with the one person on this ship who truly mattered when it mattered most. He walked up to the door of Ash's office and chimed the padd. Ashlyn looked up from her desk, finally coming to the end of the upcoming weeks schedules, the chime interrupted the last few items, but she didn't mind, she was glad of the distraction. " Sytuk" he said nervously. He had no excuse for seeing her other than Brackens suggestion. Ashlyn smiled warmly. "Come in, come in" she was genuinely fond of the Reman Petty Officer. The doors opened and he walked in. " I hope I'm not disturbing you." He said, glancing around her office. "I'm glad of the interruption to be honest. My head is swimming." He sat down carefully. " I don't have much time. I'm going on the away mission. Lieutenant Bracken suggested we take some time before we leave" The awkwardness he felt was almost overwhelming. He looked down at the floor between his feet. Ashlyn nodded gently, moving her chair around the desk slightly, so that barrier wasn't between them, however still respecting his distance. She didn't know what Ailynn had said, and probably never properly would. However she knew her nice well, and could guess some of it." "She's a far gentler soul than she lets on that one. Messages home was it?" She sipped her head to catch his eye. "It's just me, its okay, there's nothing to feel awkward about." She spoke gently. He tapped his foot, not knowing what to say. The suggestion of messages home to family or spending time with loved ones was lost on him. He did feel better around Ashlyn though. " Yes, messages home. I have no one at home, or a home for that matter. No parents, no family , no frie…" he stopped himself short at the realization that Ashlyn was indeed a friend. She regarded him, a touch of melancholia descending on her in the way that it always did when she spoke to him. She genuinely liked spending time in his company, but the sadness of his past haunted him on a level that was infectious. All Ashlyn wanted to do was to pull him into a hug, but each time she had to force herself to resist her normal tactile nature. "Sytuk, are you okay?" Her tone was gentle, truly touched with deepest concern. Her hand twitched involuntarily toward his, she managed to hold it back, but it distressed her not to comfort a friend with even the tiniest physical touch. He shook his head. " No I'm not , these people on this away mission are completely inexperienced. They aren't prepared for what's going to happen. They think they know the risk, but they don't. For example a few hours ago on the bridge when we engaged an enemy ship. I seen the look on your husb.. the captain's face when he ordered the destruction of the enemy. He fired on them himself." Sytuk paused and took a deep breath. " He did what he felt the others weren't prepared to do, he wanted that on him , to spare others of that action. " Sighing slightly " Truth is...I don't think he was prepared either." Sytuk said. He was aware of The captain's service in the fighter wing, but he knew for most people taking life wasn't easy yet Sytuk also knew that after a while everyone gets used to it , no matter what they say. Ashlyn nodded, her sense of deep friendship clashing with her outright devotion to family. “Sytuk, we all make difficult decisions, experience things which test our boundaries to the limit. now...Trip had a decision, and he made it, next time, a slightly different decision, a different set of circumstances. Let me point it out...hypothetically….” He listened to her carefully. She had a unique way of explaining things to him. Things that were so simple to most but were completely lost on him due to his life of emotional isolation. She shifted her seat forward. Intellectually, she was far below Ailynn, but in terms of people; Ashlyn understood personal anthropoid nature on a level that was on a level even she couldn’t comprehend. She held Sytuk’s gentle glance. Holding her hand only a few inches above Sytuks own. Ash looked at him. “You trust me?” He tried not to break eye contact with her. Images of his past flashed through his mind, the word trust was a commonly used word but it was something he was still learning. ~ Don't touch me, please don't do it~ he thought. Not that he would lose his temper but he was worried she would get some of his thoughts , feel what he felt. " Yes I trust you." He replied . “Then why are you nervous. Nothing has changed. A few photons are closer, I’m touching you in no lesser a manner than I was, but there’s a degree of discomfort no?” " Yes the discomfort is always there." Ashlyn pulled full away, a hand held up in full apology. She however held his gaze, a mix of gentle friendship, and understanding. “The discomfort you just felt...is nothing like these...babies can even begin to comprehend.” Sytuk closed his eyes for a moment " Those...babies will be faced with tough choices. None of them are killers, enemy is. " He opened his eyes. " I am finding myself less concerned about our mission objectives and more concerned about…" he paused and mumbled " Them" She wasn’t a counsellor, by any means. However, she knew her friend. “It’s happening….isn’t it…” Ash observed, so quietly. You’ve started to feel it haven’t you.” It wasn’t a question. He straightened his posture in the chair. " Yes! " he said with a raised tone of voice. He was getting slightly defensive for no reason. " I'm sorry, yes I am concerned about them. It feels like I am even beginning to care about them. " Sytuk said with a weird feeling tingling inside of him. “It’s okay.” SHe wanted to hold him. Every atom of her soul ached. " I'm just going to lay it all out here. " He stated as he raised a hand. " When Lieutenant Bracken said loved ones and family , I thought of you, but then I thought of them...all of them. Is it wrong of me to feel that way? To feel like people are filling the void I have never had? To consider those around me family , even if they don't think of me in the same way? It is ridiculous?" He stopped himself. Pouring all this out on her wasn't fair, but then again she was the one who brought him out of the corner he was in. “My Sister is the former Captain of the Hades, now Admiral Surgeon General of the Fleet, do you mind if I tell you what she always said,and does so to this day, and I know will say on her deathbed?” He raised the part of his forehead where eyebrows would be if he had hair. “It’s that the officers on a ship become closer than you can imagine, closer than family, to this day, and prophets be my witness she always says that she’d give her life for any of them, to this day.” Ash shrugged. “I’m not Fleet, and probably never will be, but there’s a tingle in your soul, a tingle that I sort of feel that you’re starting to feel?” " Really?" He asked. Shocked and at the same time confused at how could she feel what he felt. ~ is this an assumption?~ " I'm feeling something...different, complex" Ashlyn looked at him, dead in the eye. “You’re wrong you know.” Sytuk looked at her " About what?" He asked. Hoping whatever he was wrong about he could correct his mistake. “You do have a family, difference is that you’re not related to them, but they feel like it.” He looked at her for a moment. " Family?" He cracked a smile. His twisted fangs peaking past his lips. " When I was a child. I thought about all the reasons my family had to abandon me. I tried many times to imagine them. " He laughed nervously. " I even thought that if I screamed in my head loud enough that they'd come back for me. So every night before bed I tried." He looked at his hand resting on her desk. “And they didn’t?” Ashlyn wanted nothing more than to envelope her friend in the closest hug. " After 10 years I gave up. It was foolish. " He answered. " It was at that point that I made myself no longer feel anything remotely close to being alive." He shook his head. " Ash listened sadly as Sytuk carried on talking, then spoke gently, but warmly. "I'm sorry that you suffered like that. I was trying to say that your past doesn't have to define your present. You have friends around you that think a lot of you even if you're unaware of it. I think a lot of you and value your friendship highly." " Really? You value our friendship?" He asked. "Of course I do." She smiled warmly. "Almost from the first moment we met, back on Mars when you were investigating that case…the missing girl remember?" He nodded his head. " Yes, Lieutenant Peters was very adamant that I helped because he had a strange feeling about the parents. I remember when I met them, I could sense they were lying about something right away. The father and mother never wanted to be questioned separately. That case was the first time I was able to put my ability to good use. " Sytuk remarked about the case. The girl ran away from an abusive household. Her father had been abusive to the mother and daughter. The case made Sytuk realize that he wanted to help people and that he could. "I remember it. The shock wave that case sent through the local community was immense." " Enough about me. Friendships work both ways. How about you? How are things aboard the Exeter?" He asked. The minutes were dwindling away, if this were going to be the last conversation they had he wanted to be remembered as a friend and not some troubled monster trying to change his nature. Ashlyn's face glowed visibly. "I'm so happy. This is everything I wanted out of life. Away mission and danger notwithstanding." Sytuk nodded his head. " I'm glad. Marriage suits you well." Sytuk said. He didn't even need to rely on his telepathic ability to detect lies. He could see it on her face. A look of pure happiness. She laughed gently. "I'm doing a job I adore, on a ship that means so much to my whole family, with people that I hold very close to my heart." She gestured to him. "It's awful how happy I am." " You deserve nothing less." He said, glancing at the time. " Ash I must be going, but before I do there is something I need to share with you. I should have done this a long time ago." Ashlyn looked puzzled. "Oh?" " You know how you feel about a friendship, with me, with anyone because it's how you feel. You know your own feelings. I value your friendship, but words aren't enough. " He said, feeling a sense of urgency. If he were to die she would never know how much he valued her presence in his life. " Hold out your hand" He suggested. Reaching his hand across her desk. Ashlyn felt her heart leap. She knew how Sytuk felt about physical contact. She reached out her hand and rested it on the table. He gently grabbed her hand for only a moment but long enough for her to feel everything he felt about her. The handclasp, although only brief, meant a very great deal. The rush of his feeling and emotions took her breath away. She had the faintest hint of the more complex nature of his being. "Sytuk…" " You see Ash, you are the light in a dark room. The light that has shown me the endless possibilities of new lights being found. I can not yet see the entire room but one day, hopefully I will, but it all started with you." He smiled. She nodded, blushing. "You took all the big steps, all I did was help a bit pointing the way." Smiling gently at her friend, she carried on. "But thank you. You’re kind to say it. It means a lot. Take care won't you." " I would have never done it ,if it wasn't for you. " He said as he stood up. " Take care Ashlyn Williams " He walked out the door. He needed to go get ready ( reply none) ( posted by Mark( spc Ashlyn Williams) & Rob Davis ( SPC- Sytuk) (USS Exeter - Outside Observation Lounge - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper 17:50) Standing outside the observation lounge Gabe tapped his badge "Vespers to Poldan" (Reply Poldan) "Kez if you could meet me in the Observation lounge I have a mission for you, now if you could" (Reply Poldan) Gabe closed the channel and walked into the room he saw Paul standing there taking a breath he continued to walking in. (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Outside Observation Lounge - ACMO Ens Kasian Poldan 17:51) Kasian stood under the water letting the sonic showers hot water turn his skin a bring pink. He knew that no matter how hot the water was it wasn’t going to make the feelings go away. =/\=Vespers to Poldan=/\= The sound of Vesper's voice sent a chill down Kasian spine. What could he want Kaz had done the job he was assigned. =/\=Kez if you could meet me in the Observation lounge I have a mission for you, now if you could=/\= “On my way, sir.” Kaz said Pulling on a uniform his hair still wet he left his quarters and left headed to the observation lounge. He had half a mind to walk slower than normal but didn’t want to get in trouble for taking too long. Walking into the observation lounge Kaz saw Vester talking to someone. “I’m sorry do I need to wait?” Kaz asked, stopping at the doorway. (reply Vesper, any) (posted by Richard) (USS Exeter - Observation Lounge - CMO Ens Gabe Vesper 17:52) "Mr Sleeford, sorry I don't expect to see anyone here, I was just going to brief Dr Poldan on his mission. I can move elsewhere if you would like but I think we maybe need to have a chat. Also, I believe I can help you with your granade issue" (Reply Sleeford) (Reply Poldan, Sleeford, any) (Posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - FOs Office - FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken - 1752) “Hey Mum." Ailynn pulled her knees up and rested her chin on them, sighing gently. "If you're receiving this message, its because things haven't gone as planned, and I'm either MIA," she paused "or worse" "In either eventuality, I hope that I was never a disappointment, I know I made mistakes, massive great big ones, and I've spent the last few years trying to become the daughter that you deserve, the best version of myself, and an Officer that you can bore the rest of the Admirals boasting about." Sighing gently, she continued. “I’m not ashamed of admitting that I’m scared, I’m headed into the lion’s den, leading a number of young Officers who are going to be looking up to me for all the answers, and at the moment, I feel like the scared child that you used to sit on your knee and hug, that feels like a lifetime ago.” Tears began to well up in her eyes, “It feels like at every step of the last 10 years I’ve taken a step away from you. Going to the Academy, then to Mars, then here onto the Exeter. I love you and everyone so much.” “In the worst case, and if this message to you are to be my last, then I want you to try not to be sad. To not mourn, but remember the happy times we had. The long long walks around the bay area when I was going nuts revising for my finals, those beautiful roses we planted in Gran’s garden when I was nine, and the bedtime kisses that you snuck in and gave me when you’d been working late. I never told you but I always woke up when you came in to my room, and I can still smell the scent from the shampoo you use for your hair. It’s always stuck with me, I tried using the same one on my own hair, but it just doesn’t smell the same.” The tears were running down her cheek now, she picked up the holopicture that she kept on her desk, her, her mum and her mum’s mum, all 3 of them in dress uniform for a dinner that they’d had to go to. It had been taken just before the Exeter left. Ailynn was wearing her First Officers uniform, and the two solid rank pips of Lieutenant Senior Grade. “I love you more than you’ll ever know, bye Mum.” She brought a couple of fingers to her lips, kissed them, and then tapped those fingers on the camera lens. “End recording. This is to be sent to Admiral Aimee Bracken in the event of me not returning from the away mission.” [message saved; understood] Sighing deeply to herself, Ailynn stood up and dried her eyes. Realising that the day was nowhere near over yet, she headed towards the Nine and Dine; they did a Protein and wholegrain fibre shake that would keep the wolf from the door nicely. (Reply none) (posted by Mark) (USS Exeter – Deck 3, Personal Quarters – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1752) Keira entered her and Ravok’s shared quarters and was immediately greeted by Venus the dog, who perched up on her hind legs putting her paws up on Keira’s abdomen. “Ooof,” she said with a chuckle. “Did you miss me?” The panting noises of the dog was the only thing that had pierced the silence of their quarters. Keira gave the family pet a quick pat on the back and a scratch behind the ear that Venus appreciated so much. “Down, girl.” Venus whimpered softly. “I know, we’re all supposed to be home by now.” She attempted to calm her. Venus walked off and grabbed her favorite squeak toy. By the time Keira go to the desk Venus was insistently attempting to place the toy in Keira’s hand. Venus whimpered softly again. “Fine.” Keira said sternly, accepting the toy, “Just once.” Venus let out a soft bark that was more air than substance and sounded more like a, “huff” Keira enticingly squeezed the toy, with each squeak, Venus was getting more excited, her tail was swishing back and forth so vigorously that her hind quarters were having trouble keeping up. Stopping suddenly Keira gave the toy a gentle toss and flipped it into the next section of her quarters. Venus dutifully went thundering after it. Finally getting the opportunity, Keira sat down and keyed on the terminal. “Computer begin recording.” The computer toned the affirmative, as Venus settled down at Keira’s feet chewing on her prize. “Hi, Mom, Dad. If you’re viewing this it means that I was a part of some Odin-forsaken mission that I didn’t make it back from. It could be the one I’m currently preparing for my first or, Freya knows some other mission somewhere, some time in the future. I know I don’t plan on recording another one of these. So here goes. I knew going into Starfleet that not everyone makes it back alive. The people here handing you this storage media that should be compatible with something back home, they are my friends. The Romulan man that handed you this chip, Ravok you know. What you may not know is how special he is….” (Reply none) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter -Observation Lounge - CMO Ens Gabe Vespers 1800) Gabe spun round as he heard the door open, a freshly washed and dressed Dr Poldan stood there. “I’m sorry do I need to wait?” "No it's fine, Mr Sleeford knows the mission. Take a seat please." Gabe said moving to the screen (Reply Poldan / Sleeford iyw) Activating the screen Gabe brought up the graphics shown at the original breifing. "We will soon be arriving at our mission point. A disused Marquis base the the cult is currently using." Gabe explained the mission as Ailynn had and came to a finish. "You will be on team Alpha with the First Officer, your job is to provide medical assistance and if needed support security with neutralising any kamikaze cult members. I will remain on board to oversee any medical issues here and support is required. Have I missed anything Mr Sleeford?" (Reply Sleeford / Poldan) (posted by Mat) (USS Exeter - Observation lounge - Sec/Tac Officer -ensign -PaulSleeford - 1801) Standing by the window contemplating the upcoming mission,Sleeford heard the door open, turning he saw Doctor Vespers walking in, pushing away from the window turned to leave, remembering that the first officer had give him leave to find a replacement medic for the mission. "Mr Sleeford, sorry I don't expect to see anyone here, I was just going to brief Dr Poldan on his mission. I can move elsewhere if you would like but I think we maybe need to have a chat. Also, I believe I can help you with your grenade issue" "No problem Doctor, I was just thinking about my mortality and some of the chooses I've made" Approaching the doctor, Sleeford smiled, "So lets hear about these ideas, anything that can save lives down there would be very useful." (Reply Vespers) As they talked the door opened a second time. “I’m sorry do I need to wait?” "No it's fine, Mr Sleeford knows the mission. Take a seat please." Nodding to Poldan, Sleeford watched as the doctor activated the screen and began his briefing "We will soon be arriving at our mission point. A disused Marquis base the the cult is currently using." "You will be on team Alpha with the First Officer, your job is to provide medical assistance and if needed support security with neutralizing any kamikaze cult members. I will remain on board to oversee any medical issues here and support is required. Have I missed anything Mr Sleeford?" Shaking his head Sleeford smiled slightly, "No doctor, I think that's all, other then some of those down there are, there against their will. We have intelligence that Bajorians are being taken to the base, brainwashed, turned into living bombs and sent out to destroy the federation, just another normal day really", Frowning Sleeford shook his head. "Sorry, I'm just a little morbid at the moment, If I'm honest I'm a little scared, something about this mission really frightens me" (Vespers/Poldan IYW) (Replies Vespers/Poldan IYW) (Posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter -Observation Lounge - ACMO Ens Kasian Poldan 1803) "You will be on team Alpha with the First Officer, your job is to provide medical assistance and if needed support security with neutralising any kamikaze cult members. I will remain on board to oversee any medical issues here and support is required. Have I missed anything Mr Sleeford?" “AWAY TEAM..” Kaz was shocked he knew his current job performance hadn’t been anything spectacular so he was both shocked and confused. Kaz was both shocked and confishes he looked at the CMO blankly for a while. (Reply vespers) “No sir I understand.” Kaz said not sure what else to say. (Reply any) (Posted by Richard) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - Tac/Sec - Ens. Stan More – 18:06) Food. The problem was what to eat? It should not be anything heavy. He needed to be light so if shot at he could jump out the way. A plate of sausage and mash dripping with greasy gravy. Would be out of the question. But a nice piece of boiled haddock and salad would be better. True it was replicated but the food slots. On the Exeter actually did quite a good job. Taking his plate over to a table. He noticed Rylee. “ Hello May I join you? “ More asked ( Reply , Rylee ) “ Thank you. I must say the slots on the Exeter do quite an exceptional job. You would not know this is replicated. This could of been swimming around before ending up here. “ Stan said ( Reply , Rylee ) “ Sorry I did not mean to sound barbaric. I just meant this tastes so fresh. You see when I was a wee boy. My parents went on an archeological dig on the North East coast of England. We stayed at a heritage village . No technology was allowed so all the food was real. They didn’t keep animals for food. They were not that barbaric. But they did live of fish which they daily caught.” He explained ( Reply , Rylee ) “ Yes. Indeed.” Stan said ( Reply , Rylee ) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐼) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - SPC Ensign Rylee Page – 18:10) Having eaten, Rylee had spent the last hour or so simply sitting by the window in the mess hall with a cup of now cold coffee by her. Her thoughts had taken her back home, into the current mission and everywhere in between. Not really listening, she found herself thinking about her family as a voice broke into her mind. “ Hello May I join you?" Looking up, she saw a young guy with a plate of food in his hand. Smiling softly, she nodded, "Feel free, although I'm not much company at the moment." As he took a seat at the table, Rylee glanced at the plate, "Smells good." “ Thank you. I must say the slots on the Exeter do quite an exceptional job. You would not know this is replicated. This could've been swimming around before ending up here. “ the man replied. Raising an eyebrow, Rylee looked at him, "sounds a bit…. brutish." “ Sorry I did not mean to sound barbaric. I just meant this tastes so fresh. You see when I was a wee boy. My parents went on an archeological dig on the North East coast of England. We stayed at a heritage village . No technology was allowed so all the food was real. They didn’t keep animals for food. They were not that barbaric. But they did live off fish which they daily caught.” He explained Sinking back into her chair, Rylee smiled softly, "sounds almost idyllic. " “ Yes. Indeed.” Leaning forward, she extended her hand, "Rylee Page. " (Reply more) Nodding, Rylee allowed a smile to creep over her face as she looked at him, "Do I detect a wee accent on your voice there?" She replied with a hint of humour on her voice. (Reply more) "I thought so. Me, well, i guess the spots give me away." (Reply more) "Oh no, I'm not joined. That was never in the cards for me." (Reply more) (Reply more, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 1830) The moment had come they were now arriving at the Asteroid Base. So far sensors weren't picking up anything, and they were using the natural environment as well as improvements made to the Exeter Class' stealth systems to mask their approach. "Mr. Williams," Trip said to his helmsman, "Slow approach, not too close, but get us within transporter ranger and then maintain a standard orbit." (reply Ire) "Ensign M'Rurrh," he then directed his attention at the Caitian, "Give me a concentrated scan in the area, see if you can't pinpoint the location of the Enemy Saber classes." (reply M'Rurrh) "Ensign Cortes, I need a scan of the local environment, plasma storms and the like, we don't want to get caught of guard," (reply Cortes) Trip then opened a ship wide channel and stood up. "Attention all personnel of the Exeter, this is the Captain speaking. We are approaching the base of the terrorist cell known alternatively as the Cult of the Pah Wraith and the Prophet's fire. Now there has been some rumblings and whispers going around that our enemy are the Bajorans. Let me be absolutely clear. While this is a terrorist cell made up of Bajorans, our enemy are not the Bajoran people. The unfortunate reality of civilization, is there will always be groups who manipulate culture, religion, and public fear to their own twisted goals. This one of these groups. They wish to warp the Bajoran beliefs, eschew the teachings of the Prophet and bring a planetary worship of the Pah Wraiths, doing so by baptizing their planet, this sector, and their people in fire. It is a group not unto familiar with groups from the history of many of our planets, including my home of Earth. ISIS, Al Qaeda, Terra Prime, the IRA, ETA, and others to name a few. They are not representative of the whole. We are on this mission on behalf of the Federation Government, of which Bajor is a proud member, Starfleet, and the Bajoran government. We are on here for the people of Bajor. Their peace, their prosperity, their way of life, that is what we are fighting for. The enemy we are facing is dangerous, but they are fighting a battle in which the most powerful weapons are words and actions. Terrorists, as they have for millenia, spread messages of hate, twisting words, twisting fears, to poison minds. Our greatest weapon is the ideals we hold dear to our hearts, the ideals of the Federation. That is what we carry with us. Within moments our away teams will board the base to disable it and hopefully strike a crippling blow to their operations. Whether you are on that mission or not, I want all of you to acquit yourself and comport yourself as model and exemplary members of Starfleet. While we will remain on yellow alert for the time being, all crew are to head to battle stations and maintain general quarters. All recreation facilities are temporarily closed. I ask all civilian crew to head to their quarters or other designated safe zones. Alpha team report to Transporter Room One for transport, Beta team report to Transporter Room Two. Lt. Bracken, Lt. Merek, please report in once you are aboard the station. All of you, you have not let me down yet, I believe in you. So I say to all of you carry these wise words... the words on our lips to all those who try and stop us and cause harm to our Bajoran brothers and sisters, the words of the immortal Duke Nuke ... Come get some." Trip then sat down and pressed his commbadge. "Dr. Vesper, have you given your sister her birthday present?" Trip was referencing the tracker but he didn't want to say so outloud. He had a feeling that Vesper would catch his meaning. (reply Vesper) "Perfect, join me on the bridge, we will be monitoring the away teams vitals from here." (reply Vesper) Trip then turned to Foxglove. "I need you to use the E-Warfare package to hack their systems. Do whatever you can lower shields temporarily and to mask the transport arrival of our away teams. Let's get them all the advantages we can." (reply Foxglove) "Perfect. Mr. Ravok, lower our shields, but raise them as soon as our away teams are onboard. Get 'er done." (reply Ravok) Trip then looked out a the view screen and took a long deep breath. (reply all) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter- Armoury- Sec/Tac Officer Ensign Paul Sleeford 18:30) Leaving the observation lounge Sleeford crossed the bridge and headed down to the security deck, entering the armoury Sleeford approached his locker, stripping off his uniform top he pulled out his tactical uniform. Dressing he sat on the bench and pulled on his boots. Standing he pulled on the tactical vest, taking his knife he slipped the sheath into the two thin straps on the left shoulder strap, extracting the knife Sleeford ran his thumb across the edge, grunting he slid the blade back, making sure the knife was secure, he headed to the hatch and collected his side arms, sliding his arm through the sling and then across his back, letting the rifle hang down his side. Walking to transporter room 1, he found the rest of the away team waiting, looking over the adaption for the rifles Sleeford nodded and attached it to his rifle. “The new gas grenades that were developed to deploy the bio-explosive counter agent have been issued to you as well. Gives a rapid expulsion of the counter agent, will rapidly fill a room, but with little to no shock wave. However due to time constraints, only 8 of these could be manufactured, 4 per team.” Looking across towards the first officer, Sleeford nodded, “Hopefully we can get a few with each one, otherwise it’s up close and personal with the hypo sprays.” As the FO began adjusting her own gear, Sleeford noticed the look of slight disdain, understandably for a medically trained officer, nodding Sleeford set his rifle and hand held to level 2, making sure he locked the settings. “Once we beam over, form a column. Some of those corridors near our target look narrow, and there are a couple of potential pinch points. Sytuk and Sleeford. Rolling point steady pace, you both know the drill, take a point, then cover as the other moves forward. Billy, Kaz take the centre eyes open as we move forward, phasers at the ready. I’ll take the rear and make sure nobody swings round on our six. Questions anybody?” Sleeford looked across at Sytuk and nodded once, looking across at Bracken he nodded again, "Understood. Sytuk, you go left, I'll take right, 5 meter bounds" When the order to leave was Given Sleeford mounted the transporter pad and checked his settings for the third time, swallowing hard he placed the rifle into his shoulder and brought it up to the aim, as the beam took hold and the Exeter was replaced by a rocky tunnel, just wide enough for the team to spread out to arms length distance. Moving 5 meters forward Sleeford dropped to one knee, sweeping his rifle across the corridor checking the area for anyone who wanted to shot back or worse. Hearing the heavy foot falls he knew Sytuk was moving forwards. (reply Any) (Posted by Alistair) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - Tac/Sec Ens. Stan More – 18:31 ) Stan tasted his boiled haddock. It made him smile as he remembered times long gone. Leaning forward, she extended her hand, "Rylee Page. " “ Stan More “ Stan replied He tucked into the salad. A little to much cucumber for his liking. He should of told the replicator. Easy on the vegetable but never mind. "Do I detect a wee accent on your voice there?" She replied with a hint of humour on her voice. “ Scottish. Well from the age of four really. My parents moved to Edinburgh. My mother grew up there. So it was a natural place to raise a family.” Stan told her. "I thought so. Me, well, i guess the spots give me away." “ You're a Trill. How long have you two been joined? “ More asked her "Oh no, I'm not joined. That was never in the cards for me." “ Nothing to be ashamed of. A very small percentage of Trills actually become joined.” Stan said ( Reply , Rylee ) Stan was just about to reply when the Captains message came over the comm. They sat and listened as he spoke. Once it was over Stan finished his meal. “ Oh well that’s my signal time to suit up.” Stan said ( Reply , Rylee ) “ Transporter room two. Via the armoury. How about yourself? “ Stan said draining his glass of mineral water. ( Reply , Rylee ) “ Well take care.” He told her standing up. ( Reply , Rylee ) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐼) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CFO - Lieutenant (JG) – Ire Williams - 1832) Ire was threading the ship through the plasma storms getting close enough to try and lose their signature in the back ground interference but not too close to cause danger to the ship. They were finally on their approach to the asteroid base which was tricky but doable. "Mr. Williams," "Slow approach, not too close, but get us within transporter ranger and then maintain a standard orbit." “Yes Captain. Slowing approach to transporter range and then maintain standard orbit.” He began to slow the Exeter as it entered an area of slight calmer space which surrounded the Asteroid base. He kept one eye on the distance to transporter range as he flew closer. He half listened to Trips address to the crew and felt a stab of worry for Greta but squashed it fast. ~Worrying about her will stop you from concentrating on you job. Getting everyone killed by flying into a storm because you are not focused will not help her at all~ He looked at the distance that they had left. ~okay a little bit closer~ His fingers were poised over the controls as they reached transporter range. He carefully moved the Exeter into a turn which placed them in an orbit with transporter range of the asteroid base. Once he was happy that they were where they were supposed to be he spoke up. “Captain. Stable orbit maintained and with in transporter range of the base sir.” (Reply Trip) He now began to plot evasion manoeuvres away from asteroid along with a couple of close passes for the base in case of trouble. (Reply Trip, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- Sec/Tac PO3 Sytuk(spc)-1832) Sytuk stood waiting in the transporter room as others piled in, he was wearing his full set of tactical gear. Around both of his thighs were power cells. He had his phaser rifle in hand. Two hand phasers on his waist and an additional phaser rifle strapped to his back. He had EMP distribution units attached to his belt, a favorite of his ,used for disruption of light sources in a pinch. Every phaser of his was set to stun. Having his mind set to not kill a single person. Typically, when going into situations like this in the past, Sytuk would have every weapon on him set to kill. Standing there he towered over the other members of the away team. As Bracken made her way into the room he nodded his head, his tactical helmet concealing his face. The fierce red glow of his helmets targeting emitter shined around the room. He walked forward onto the transporter pad and got down on one knee as the others quickly filled the pad . He had his rifle shouldered and held steady, ready to take aim, ready to fire. His priority was protecting The first officer, Ensign Alexander, and the Trill doctor. Sytuk was sure Ensign Sleeford could handle himself. ~ Meaningless is the light...absent the dark. The dark in which we shadows roam~ He thought himself, his customary mental motto, recited many times before but this time without the intent to kill, but to protect. Safeguarding the lives of not only his fellow away team members, but also the enemy… ( reply any in the room ) ( posted by Rob Davis - (SPC)- Sytuk) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - SPC Ensign Rylee Page – 18:33) "Nothing to be ashamed of. A very small percentage of Trills actually become joined.” Stan replied, "True, but it's the pinnacle of our society. Unless you are a specialist in some field, you don't get as much recognition. You know?" As the man before her was about to Reply, the Commander's announcement came over the comm. As she listened, a feeling of dread but also excitement filled her. Looking over at Stan, Rylee noticed him finish his meal and he stood, "Oh well that’s my signal time to suit up.” Stan said "Off to save the world then are you? Heading down to security?" “ Transporter room two. Via the armoury. How about yourself?" "My shift ended but I suppose we are still on alert so no rest for the wicked." Rylee responded as a thought entered her mind. ~maybe he isn't like the man I heard about?~ “ Well take care.” He told her standing up. "Hey, perhaps when you get back, you can tell me all about the daring tales of stan the security man over a drink?" (Reply More) Nodding, Rylee stood, smiled softly and headed towards the door. "It's a date then." She replied with a glance back, flashing stan a wide smile and left the mess hall. (Reply More, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken - 1833) Ailynn strode into the transporter room, pulling her hair into a tight french braid. She could see that everyone was already here. To say that the entire team had already worked wonders was an understatement. Each hurdle that had been put in front of them, had been overcome by everyone both on the away teams, and in specialist departmental roles. Kiera had done wonders with the mag-rail dart tech, Passing one to each of the security team, Ailynn gave them the same brief that she knew Merek was giving the others in Room 2. “The new gas grenades that were developed to deploy the bio-explosive counteragent have been issued to you as well. Gives a rapid expulsion of the counteragent, will rapidly fill a room, but with little to no shockwave. However due to time constraints, only 8 of these could be manufactured, 4 per team.” (reply Sytuk/Sleeford) Adjusting her tactical vest, a little uncomfortable at not being kitted out with a medical kit, instead carrying a heavy phaser, set to stun, a combat knife, that she didn’t like carrying, but had learned was always useful, and a few other things in pockets in the vest. “Once we beam over, form a column. Some of those corridors near our target look narrow, and there are a couple of potential pinch points. Sytuk and Sleeford. Rolling point steady pace, you both know the drill, take a point, then cover as the other moves forward. Billy, Kaz take the centre eyes open as we move forward, phasers at the ready. I’ll take the rear and make sure nobody swings round on our six. Questions anybody?” (Reply ALL on Alpha Team) Ailynn nodded, and took her place at the back of the formation. “Places everyone. Phasers set to stun and at the ready.” (Reply IYW) “Energise” (Reply Alpha Team IYW) (Posted by Mark) (USS Exeter – Intelligence Section – SFI Agent – MCPO – Rebecca Faust -1833) Rebecca was looking at the scan data of the asteroid as they approached with cold professional interest. It did not seam like much from the out side but inside in winding tunnels with tight corners and corridors that have been changed multiple times from there initial design plans. Bringing up the data that were available in the ship’s computer as well as the incoming information from the scans that were beginning to show more detailed lay out of the sub structure she was starting form an idea about the basic layout of what the away teams had to cover to get to there targets and she was not happy. ~To many blind corners and ambush points for my liking~ From her own experience with clearing strong holds like this the advantage was on the defenders and it could get nasty very, very fast. She hoped that it would not happen but she did not keep her hopes up as she understood the fanatical drive of these Bajoran on the asteroid. She kept scanning the data as it came into try and get any kind of in site which might help. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie)(SPC Rebecca Faust) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek -1833) Keira was glad she found an updated version of the ancient compressed air rifle she had described to Lieutenant Bracken. It seemed she wasn’t the first to think of it. Some time ago, someone else had come up with the same idea and created a magnetic rail system that fired a dart delivery unit. She found it in all places in a defunct Anti-Borg R&D file. The weapon was labelled a failure because it failed to penetrate Borg tactical drone shielding, but it would be more than capable of delivering the explosive counteragent. It was easy to modify the dart to additionally house an isolinear tag. It was a bonus that because it was a Starfleet R&D project it was not only compatible with, it integrated perfectly with Starfleet issue phaser rifles as an under-barrel unit.. The Chief Engineer had time to replicate four. She sent two along with one of her engineers to transporter room one and kept two for Beta team. The Lieutenant looked at the gathered group, her team. She cleared her throat before she spoke. “Take this brief moment to perform pre-mission checks and inspections.” (Reply all Beta team, IYW) Keira checked her phaser rifle. Fully charged, set to stun 2. Her spare type II, fully charged and set to stun 2 as well. Her armor was fitted and secure. She had placed her engineering kit in various pockets in her tactical vest to keep her hands free from carrying a kit. She kept her favorite blade that she always carried as a tertiary, but didn’t plan on using it. She saw everyone had nearly completed their checks as well. She continued. “I’ve brought some mission specific gear for our security contingent.” Keira said. (Reply More, Greta ) Keira pulled out one unit and began explaining. “It’s an under barrel mounted mag-rail dart launcher. It’s powered by the phaser rifle’s internal powercell.” She handed each security officer one and continued to explain as they each mounted one on their rifles. “Each dart is fitted with one full dose of the organic explosive counteragent and one isolinear tag that will transmit it’s location to the ship for automatic beam out. In this case I’ve sent the location to beam the individual so tagged to the brig. It will also separate those individuals from their equipment for later inspection.” (Reply any security) “Each unit has a forty round drum magazine. It should automatically pair with your weapon’s integral targeting system and be triggered by the standard accessory actuators. Just a reminder, it’s a physical object, not a collimated phaser beam, it is subject to gravity and will start dropping off at about forty to fifty meters, plan your shots accordingly. In early R&D simulations controlled pairs of stun shot followed by dart worked well against organic targets.” She said. (Reply any Security) “On beam in, we will be proceeding in diamond slot formation if the area allows. Michaels in the center, More at the front, Smith left, Vosi at the rear and myself on the right. Clear each room on the way. Stun and transport everyone. Security can sort out terrorist from victims when they reach the Exeter.” She told the gathered. “Maintain tactical approach as long as possible to maintain the element of surprise. Once they know we’re here expect heavy resistance.” She let that sink in for a moment, before she continued. “We’ll proceed toward our primary objective the power distribution center where Vosi and I will shut off the main power. We’ll place charges at strategic points along the way. Any questions?” (Reply any) “Take your places, phasers at the ready.” She ordered. (Reply any) “Energize.” (Reply Beta Team, IYW) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Bridge - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 1833) " Lieutenant Cortes, I need a scan of the local environment, plasma storms and the like, we don't want to get caught of guard," "Underway, Sir." Erin replied with an assertiveness in her voice that had not been there before. Turning back to her console, she began to monitor the plasma storms, their currents and eddys. Breathing deeply as Commander Williams spoke to the crew, there was something in his voice that gave her confidence. A weight and power in his words yet a softness too. ~He is going to make Captain in no time.~ she thought to to herself as the notification came through that the away teams had left the ship. Tapping her console, she made sure that the badlands would not interrupt either communication or the ability to bring the crew back home swiftly if needed. After a few moments, a sound came from her console. Looking down, she bit her lip for a brief second and then spoke, "Commander?" (Reply Trip) "Plasma storm density has increased by 3 percent in the last 10 minutes." (Reply Trip) (Reply Trip, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – SPC Ensign Greta Smith -1834) Having already arrived in transporter room 2 in her Tactical uniform, Greta stood off to one side, watching everyone. She knew this was their first away mission together and she hoped and prayed it would not be their last. ~I just hope that I make it home. I have a wedding to prepare for. This… i can't think about that right now~ she thought to herself as her hand subconsciously rubbed the ring that sat just below her neck on a delicate gold chain. Having not wanted to wear it on her finger during the mission, she had taken a necklace that had belonged to her grandmother and hung the engagement ring in it. “Take this brief moment to perform pre-mission checks and inspections.” Greta nodded her understanding and began her checks. Setting her phaser rifle to stun, she put her normal phaser in its holster on her waist, checked her Tactical vest, making sure that the knife Keira had made for her was safely stowed away. In the other pockets, she carried a second, smaller and slightly curved blade along with a small hypospray. “I’ve brought some mission specific gear for our security contingent.” she heard Keira state. Looking over at her, Greta raised an eyebrow and walked to her side, "Ma'am, dare I ask what you brought?" (Reply More ) As her friend began to explain, Greta's eyes grew a little wide at the armament she was being shown. “It’s an under barrel mounted mag-rail dart launcher. It’s powered by the phaser rifle’s internal powercell. Each dart is fitted with one full dose of the organic explosive counteragent and one isolinear tag that will transmit its location to the ship for automatic beam out. In this case I’ve sent the location to beam the individual so tagged to the brig. It will also separate those individuals from their equipment for later inspection.” Whistling softly, Greta mounted the armament onto her rifle and inspected it as Merek continued, “Each unit has a forty round drum magazine. It should automatically pair with your weapon’s integral targeting system and be triggered by the standard accessory actuators. Just a reminder, it’s a physical object, not a collimated phaser beam, it is subject to gravity and will start dropping off at about forty to fifty meters, plan your shots accordingly. In early R&D simulations controlled pairs of stun shot followed by dart worked well against organic targets.” "My ancestors used to say let the target get close enough to see the whites of their eyes. In this case, no shoot to kill but the principle remains the same." “On beam in, we will be proceeding in diamond slot formation if the area allows. Michaels in the center, More at the front, Smith left, Vosi at the rear and myself on the right. Clear each room on the way. Stun and transport everyone. Security can sort out terrorist from victims when they reach the Exeter. Maintain tactical approach as long as possible to maintain the element of surprise. Once they know we’re here expect heavy resistance.” Knowing that they were potentially walking into a fire fight, Greta's heart skipped a beat. Blinking a couple of times, she forced thoughts of Ore from her mind and focused herself at the task in hand. ~fly straight and true, fly boy and I'll come home ~ “We’ll proceed toward our primary objective the power distribution center where Vosi and I will shut off the main power. We’ll place charges at strategic points along the way. Any questions?” "Who will be placing charges? Is that something we will all be doing?" She asked, also wondering what charges they would be placing. (Reply Merek) “Take your places, phasers at the ready.” She ordered. Standing on the transporter pad, Greta pulled her rifle up to her shoulder, standing ready and took a deep, steadying breath. “Energize.” (Reply Merek, More, any) (Posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Mess hall - Sec/Tac Ens. Stan More - 18:34) It was time to move.Stan had quite liked talking with Rylee. The room seemed to brighten when she was around. "Hey, perhaps when you get back, you can tell me all about the daring tales of stan the security man over a drink?" “ It would be a pleasure.” Stan told her honestly. Nodding, Rylee stood, smiled softly and headed towards the door. Stan began to followed her out. "It's a date then." She replied with a glance back, flashing stan a wide smile and left the mess hall. “ Yes.” Stan said. He quickly picked up his body armour and weapons. A hand Phaser , a Phaser rifle and a combat knife. Then checking the power levels as he walked. More made his way to transporter room two. (posted by Norman) (USS Exeter – Steller cartography – Science Officer – Ensign – David Clarke - 1834) David had been watching the plasma storms of the bad lands for what seemed like days. It wasn’t and he knew it but still he had found himself lousing himself in the powerful beauty of it all more then once. Now though he was focused and alert as they neared their destination. He had been tracking and marking all the storms in the area along with as many flow and currents that he could find. After the explosion of the Farengi ship he did not want to suffer the same fate due to his unpreparedness. So he had pushed the sensors that he had available to maximum sensitivity so that he could would have as much warning if any of the storms would suddenly move in their direction. This information was then sent to the bridge where is was disseminated to the relevant departments. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter –Sickbay– Nurse – CPO – Ewan McDonald- 1836) Ewan paused long enough to hear Captain Williams address to the crew and then nodded to himself. Being in harm’s way was not unusual for him but being on a combat ship was and he had felt a little unsettled at first but he knew when the patients arrived it would focus him and he would get to work. =^=…………… All of you, you have not let me down yet, I believe in you. So I say to all of you carry these wise words... the words on our lips to all those who try and stop us and cause harm to our Bajoran brothers and sisters, the words of the immortal Duke Nuke ... Come get some=^= He looked checked the vile of drugs he had been checking and slid it into a hypospray with a soft click. Checking the vile was fitted properly he placed it beside the others and went to the next one. He made sure that if the influx of patients arrived that the hyposprays were clearly marked with the correct drugs so that there would not be any confusion in chaos of an emergency. He realised that he was softly humming to himself as he worked and gave a slight smile as he noticed the song. It was part of his medivac play list that he would play when he was arriving to collect patients. Songs would change and get added depending on the deployment he was on but Zombie by the Cranberries was always there to focus his mind on the work. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie)(SPC Ewan McDonald) (USS Exeter - Bridge - aCTO/COO Lieutenant jg Ravok- 1836) "Mr. Ravok, lower our shields, but raise them as soon as our away teams are onboard. Get 'er done." Trip ordered. " Gettin er done Sir." He said with a smile. " Away teams are clear to go" He said. Ravok wasn't the praying type. He was a fatalist and as such he believed all things were designed by fate, nothing by chance. " Kick some ass down there, we'll handle it up here and get you home" He said under his breath thinking about the away teams. The love of his life, the rock nerd who never judged a book by its cover ,or the first the few pages. The insane Scottish wrecking ball. The go get em team player of the Williams' family. The brilliant and insanely wild after a few shots of alcohol first officer, his Head of the security teams and owner of a remarkable beard.The socially awkward and terrifying Reman Petty officer and Ensign More, The scientist turned security officer. ~ So this how it feels to be the one leaving?~ He lowered the shields and the away teams were off. Ravok quickly raised the shields. His focus quickly shifted to the task at hand. ( reply any on bridge) ( posted by rob Davis) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- Ensign SG Billy Alexander - 1836) To say that Billy was anxious to be on the away mission was an understatement. He never really viewed himself as one for field work. He was an analyst, a numbers guy, the kind of person whose role on an away mission was more suited for those missions involving diplomatic meetings or first contact. However it was precisely because of his ability to quickly view, sort, and analyze data, and be super organized, that he was on this mission. He wasn't a tactical specialist, an engineer, a geologist, or an operations guy. He was Billy Alexander, the guy who spent the last year as an Admiral's aide, and was tasked as Strategic Operation, specifically because he was very good at remembering fleet movements and the like. Yet his cousin decided that it was time to throw him out into the field. ~Just like Trip, make me do stuff I don't want to do.~ He mused to himself as he stepped onto the Transporter Pad. And it was true. While Billy had a mind for numbers, Trip was always the one who pushed Billy into doing things. Making Billy believe that he was capable. Not Mr. Average but the guy who could handle it and succeed. It was that way in High school. Trip was the starting catcher for the Baseball team. He was great at calling pitches and messing with batters. Billy had a decent arm, and had a nasty curveball, but he was a relief pitcher and occasional outfielder. It was Trip who goaded him into trying out as a Starting pitcher, it was Trip who caught his first game, it was Trip that made the calls that helped Billy pitch 6 innings, giving up only 2 hits, with no earned runs, 1 error, and two walks. Billy knew Trip would only send Billy out on the mound or the field, in this case an Asteroid base, if he thought Billy could do it. So why doubt? Sure Billy graduated in the like the absolute middle of the class, but he was still a Starfleet Officer and he was going to do his very best. He waited as Ailynn gave the order, and his body was enveloped in the tingly light he smiled. ~Curveball, low and inside, just on the outside of the plate. They think they'll hit, but it will drop out of the zone right when we need it most. Strike one. Yup. Let's do this.~ (reply none) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 1- ACMO Ens Kasian Poldan- 1837) “Questions anybody?” The first Officer finished her orders Kaz nodded but didn’t say anything. He felt super uncomfortable he wasn’t sure if it was because he was in the away team or if it was just the uniform that restricted his movement. ::you are fine young one:: the telepathic reassurance didn’t help but it was good to know he and Poldan was connected for this he might need the experience of the past lives to get through all this. Kaz steppes onto the transport pad where he was told to checking he had his medical supplies. His only hope was he didn’t need to use any of them. (Reply none needed) (Posted by Richard) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room Two – Engineer – Ensign – Galu Vozi - 1837) Galu stepped into the transporter room and nodded as the crewman at the controls. He shook off the small backpack he was carrying, opened it up and scanned the equipment for the umpteenth time. He had spent the time going through the ships supplies to get exactly what he needed. His eyes glanced over the hacking device that he had taken along with tools for delicate manual access for the hard way. He had also brought a scrubbing device as well as a small surge producer in case they were going to do it the easy way. His eyes stopped at a hard case near the bottom of the pack which contained small amount of shaped charges in case they needed to destroy any systems that they found. He was rated to use demolitions and had used bigger and stronger in his time working on the orbital breaking yards. ~Something for every possibility~ He gave a mental grin and closed the backpack as he waited for the rest of the team to arrive. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie)(SPC Galu Vozi) (USS Exeter - Transporter room two - Ensign Stan More - 18:39) Entering the transporter room Stan nodded at the crew who had arrived. “Take this brief moment to perform pre-mission checks and inspections.” Nodding Stan checked his hand Phaser. Which he put back in its holster. Then he ran his eyes over his Phaser rifle. After that he checked the sharpness of his combat knife. Keira had brought some specific gear for security. Stan walked over to inspect what she had for them. "Ma'am, dare I ask what you brought?" “ That sure looks like a canny piece of kit.” Stan commented Keira pulled out one unit and began explaining. “It’s an under barrel mounted mag-rail dart launcher. It’s powered by the phaser rifle’s internal powercell.” She handed each security officer one and continued to explain as they each mounted one on their rifles. “Each dart is fitted with one full dose of the organic explosive counteragent and one isolinear tag that will transmit it’s location to the ship for automatic beam out. In this case I’ve sent the location to beam the individual so tagged to the brig. It will also separate those individuals from their equipment for later inspection.” “ Impressive” Stan took one from Keira and fitted it to his Phaser rifle. (Reply any Security) “Each unit has a forty round drum magazine. It should automatically pair with your weapon’s integral targeting system and be triggered by the standard accessory actuators. Just a reminder, it’s a physical object, not a collimated phaser beam, it is subject to gravity and will start dropping off at about forty to fifty meters, plan your shots accordingly. In early R&D simulations controlled pairs of stun shot followed by dart worked well against organic targets.” She said. “ So basically we need to be closer to the target. Thirty meters maximum or the dart will miss.” Stan said (Reply any Security) “On beam in, we will be proceeding in diamond slot formation if the area allows. Michaels in the center, More at the front, Smith left, Vosi at the rear and myself on the right. Clear each room on the way. Stun and transport everyone. Security can sort out terrorist from victims when they reach the Exeter.” She told the gathered. “Maintain tactical approach as long as possible to maintain the element of surprise. Once they know we’re here expect heavy resistance.” Stan was not happy at being at the front of the group. Although they would be doing their upmost not to hurt anyone. It still meant shooting at whoever was waving their weapon at them. The attackers would mistake their fellows disappearance. For being vaporised and not transported away. This would only make them more vicious and eager to take. The bad federation murderers with them. Meaning Stan being at the front had a target marked on him. She let that sink in for a moment, before she continued. “We’ll proceed toward our primary objective the power distribution center where Vosi and I will shut off the main power. We’ll place charges at strategic points along the way. Any questions?” “ Not from me ma’am.” Stan said (Reply any) “Take your places, phasers at the ready.” She ordered. Stan took his place on the transporter pad. ~ Oh well. Who wants to live for ever ~ He thought. (Reply any) “Energize.” (Reply Beta Team, IYW) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐼) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1840) "Who will be placing charges? Is that something we will all be doing?" Smith asked. “There’s an overlap on that isn’t there? While security is certainly capable of placing tricobalt devices as it is well with in your capabilities, primarily, for this mission, it will be an Engineering task, mostly myself with some assistance from Mister Vozi, as I want Security to focus on their primary objectives, suppressing the enemy, providing cover for the team and ensuring the capture of all hostile personnel. I can’t rule out one of you placing a charge here or there, as I might get pinned down in a cross-fire, or be busy circumventing other systems.” Keira hoped she answered her friend’s question adequately. “Take your places, phasers at the ready.” She ordered. “Energize.” (Reply any IYW or None) (posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Transporter Room 2 – MO, Ensign SG Kyros Ryelle - 1841) It was supposed to be his good friend Adala on this mission. With her geology background and the fact she was a trained field medic, this would have been her time to shine. However right after the mission briefing she had passed by sickbay. She had done a rock climbing simulation earlier that morning, roughly 0500 and she had taken a fall. She had done a cursory scan and seemed fine, presenting no symptoms of a concussion, just some scrapes and bruises that were easily treatable. When she mentioned the fall to Ryelle earlier in the day, Ryelle had hoped she would be in the clear but he was still concerned, however as sometimes concussion symptoms don't appear immediately, occasionally not appearing until 24 hours after the fact. Adala had ber performing her duties exceptionally during the day, but it seemed as if the symptoms decided to show up at the worst possible time. It meant that sadly she was benched. The First Officer was consulted and Ryelle was tasked to go on the Away Mission. It was his first away mission, as he hardly ever left sickbay. That and the fact that on Mars there wasn't really anywhere to go for an away mission. The closest would have been on Trill, but he stayed on the ship. He was concerned for his friend, but she was getting brilliant care under the watchful eye of Dr. Katie Jamison. Ryelle knew that Katie would get Adala back on her feet and ready to go in a orderly, careful, and safe manner. She could not have been in better hands. So all that was left was for Ryelle to steel his own nerves as he entered the field for the first time. He had gotten caught up with a small briefing from the FO, he listened intently as the 2O spoke. He was ready. Saying a quick prayer to the prophets he waited as he was enveloped by the transporter beam and waited to materialize on the other side. (reply none) (posted by Will) (Asteroid Base – Outer Storage Bay – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 1843) The team materialized at the Beta beam in site in diamond slot formation, phasers pointed away. As Keira took her first lungful of air, immediately a stark difference could be discerned from the air aboard the Exeter and the air in here, it tasted stale, dry and metallic. The lighting was maybe thirty percent lower, likely a way to save on power consumption. Surrounding the team were several rows and piles of shipping crates in some organizational style that was not readily apparent. The crates themselves were from a myriad of origins, Cardassian, Breen, Klingon, Tzenkethi even, but the bulk of it at least two thirds, were Federation standard shipping containers. ~We may be able to determine where they are getting their Federation supplies, if it’s all raids or if someone is smuggling from the Federation or if they have benefactors helping them.~ “Status report.” Keira said in a low tone and she took out her tricorder she had set for silent running. She snapped it open. The usual cacophonic hums were absent and the lights were muted, but it was scanning just the same. (Reply Beta Team, all) “Beta Team to Exeter.” Keira said after slapping the combadge on her vest. Her tricorder was giving her very odd readings. (Reply Exeter) “Beta team reporting in. We’ve arrived on asteroid in the designated coordinates.” Keira reported. (Reply Exeter) “I’m getting some faint readings that are odd.” Keira stated. (Reply Exeter) “If I’m not mistaken it looks like a protomatter signature.” She reported. (Reply Exeter) “Well, if they’re smart it’s shielded. Which would explain the faint reading and why we didn’t get anything from the Exeter, too far away. The decayed wave could indicate that they are experimenting with it or that they are creating protomatter weapons, or both.” (Reply Exeter) “I can certainly look into it. Which would have the priority? Shutting down the power, or investigating the protomatter?” Keira inquired. (Reply Exeter) “Understood. We’ll keep in contact. Beta Team out.” Keira said. (Reply Exeter, Beta Team) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter - Bridge - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 1845) "Mr. Ravok, please confirm, are both away teams on the Asteroid." (Reply Ravok) "Perfect, step one is going well. Now on to step two." Trip said as he turned to Dr. Vesper who he had asked to sit in the First Officer's chair. Normally he would have asked Foxglove to move seats, but all of her fancy E-Warfare toys were keyed into her seat. "I want you to to go ahead and pull up a monitor with all the away teams vitals. If any of them are at risk, I want to know before they do so we can beam their asses out of there." (Reply Vesper) Before Trip could give any further orders a comm message came in from one of the Away teams. =/\=Beta Team to Exeter. =/\= "This is the Exter, go ahead Lieutenant." Trip said. =/\=Beta team reporting in. We’ve arrived on asteroid in the designated coordinates.=/\= "perfect, hopefully you haven't run into any trouble." =/\=I’m getting some faint readings that are odd.=/\= Keira stated. "Odd as in like, this shouldn't be here odd, or odd as in a grown man having an irrational fear of ducks?" Trip said trying to bring some levity to the situation, he knew what kind of odd she meant. =/\=If I’m not mistaken it looks like a protomatter signature=/\= She reported. "Well, Sugar, honey, ice, and tea! What the hell are they up to? How does this impact your level of danger?" =/\=Well, if they’re smart it’s shielded. Which would explain the faint reading and why we didn’t get anything from the Exeter, too far away. The decayed wave could indicate that they are experimenting with it or that they are creating protomatter weapons, or both.=/\= "Ok, we'll need to have you investigate. The last thing we need is a bunch of terrorists running around with a protomatter weapon." Trip's head began spinning trying to figure out what to do next. =/\=I can certainly look into it. Which would have the priority? Shutting down the power, or investigating the protomatter?=/\= "Maintain your original mission parameters. Getting control of their power systems will make Alpha team's job much easier. I don't want to leave them high and dry. Carry one original objective. I'll see if we can't isolate a location from our end. If we can find it first, I'll put together a Gamma team to go secure it. We've got most of the tactical department on standby anyways incase we need to send in the calvary. Carry on with caution, who knows what other nasty surprises they might have." =/\=Understood. We’ll keep in contact. Beta Team out.=/\= "Ok, Lieutenant Foxglove, I want you to work with Ensign M'Rurrh and Lieutenant Cortez. See if the three of you can't boost sensors to locate any traces of protomatter on the station. If we can find it, then we can hopefully secure it. We might as well be proactive while the Away teams carry out their tasks." (reply Foxglove) "Alright, Ensign M'Rurrh, began a scan of the base for any internally shielded areas, Lt. Cortez, begin scanning for protomatter, Lt. Foxglove, do what you can to boost both their scans." (reply M'Rurrh, Cortez, Foxglove) (Reply Ravok, Vesper, Cortez, Foxglove, M'Rurrh) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter - Nine and Dine - R&SE Director Ashlyn Williams and Bar Manager Caity DuBois - 1850) Ashlyn strode down the corridor ushering her staff back to their quarters. “Yellow alert, lets get shifted, clear the corridor return to quarters until further notice. Turning into the bar, she saw that the place was already all but cleared. Ash walked over, and grabbed the last few glasses off the bar and secured them in the cupboard underneath. “Caity?” She called out, hearing someone moving around in the kitchen out back. Putting a plate back in its place, Caity walked out of the kitchen with a towel, wiping her hands. Smiling, Caity put the towel down on the bar and looked at Ash, " what can I do for you, Boss?" “All switched off hun? Yellow Alert. You can hole up with me up in my quarters if you like. If you don’t mind a little dog who’s excited by new people?” Laughing, Caity nodded, "not at all. Makes a change from an antisocial snake with a bad attitude. " Ashlyn hit the kill switch that safely shut off the appliances in the kitchen, looking puzzled at Caity. "You've mentioned Bert before, why a snake of all things?" "Trust me, story for another day. Lead the way, Ash." She smiled gently, and leading Caity out of the bar, locked the doors behind them. (posted by Mark and Jackie) (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters - R&SE Director Ashlyn Williams and Bar Manager Caity DuBois - 1855) "Come in. Come in…Layla...calm down." A blur of fur and waggy tail had appeared at the door. "Calm down daft dog." She finally pushed the dog back in, and motioned to the couch. "Sit please. Drink?" "Coffee, white, two sugars." Caity responded as she sat down on the couch. Ash fixed the two coffees, handing Caity's over. Smiling softly, Caity felt a weight hit her leg. Looking down, she saw the puppy looking up at her, tail wagging, "Hey there gorgeous. " leaning down to rub her ear, she couldn't help but laugh as the dog rolled onto her back for belly rubs. Ash laughed gently. "You know you're stuck there now. She will let you do that all day. Bed Layla. Good girl." The dog got up off her back, shook herself, sneezed, then settled down on her bed. Watching the pup as she wandered off to her bed, Caity took a sip of her drink and sighed. "So...First space battle, sickbay, and now yellow alert lockdown. Quiet day all told." "Quiet is not a word I would use for it. Spent most of the afternoon cleaning up the mess in the bar. Don't worry, no more broken glass." She responded with a wink. "Trip warned me what life could be like. So did my mum and sister, but I never realised how intense it could be. Especially for those at the top." Caity nodded, "I hear that. Lieutenant Bracken was in the nine and dine earlier. She looked…" "Ailynn?" Ash asked "how did she look?" Ashlynn knew that Ailynn had things in hand, but she still worried so much. "Stressed. Worried." ~kind of… cute~ Caity thought to herself, then realised how wrong that thought was, flushed and took a sip of her coffee again. Ashlyn was taking a sip of her coffee when she saw the hint of the flush, she'd spent too long around Ailynn. "Warm in here, or is the coffee too hot?" Ash asked gently, raising an eyebrow a tiny amount teasing. Her eyes widened a little as she took another sip. "Er… coffee is A little warm." Putting her cup down, Caity leant back on the couch, "this is a nice place. Perks of being the wife of the big boss?" Ashlyn nodded. "All the Command staff have these, ifts a nice comfy suite. Hot tub the works." "Hot tub? I have a sonic shower." Uncertain whether to push what was on her mind, Ashlyn took a delicate breath. "Caity, you know I'm a friend. If you have something on your mind, you know you can talk." "Talk… about what exactly?" "There was someone at College that I was keen on. Took me months to accept how I felt. By the time I did it was too late." Ashlyn shrugged, sipping her own coffee and putting it on the table, then leaning back in the sofa, a gentle, friendly smile on her face. "No reason for sharing that. Just thought I would." Raising an eyebrow, Caity looked at Ash, "Just what are you insinuating, missy and remember, I know where your husband's bourbon is!" She replied with a smile on her face, "Is it that obvious?" Ash shook her head. "No, but you always blush slightly when we've spoken about her, I've only just noticed." Caity sighed, "it's…. You're related. It feels weird talking about this with you." "Look, it's okay, so she and I are related." Ash shrugged. "I'm not going to go running to tell her. Not before you're ready, or she is." "That sounds like there's no chance. She's seems very…. Internal?" Ash nodded. "Ailynn is the most intelligent person I've ever met, and beautiful, but she's, what's the expression?" Pausing for thought, she sipped her coffee. "More than a little neurotic." Caity laughed, "I can understand that. Don't worry, I can keep myself in check. It's not like I have a chance anyway. " Ash sighed gently. "Hey! I didn’t say that now did I. Just talk to her, give her a bit of time. You said she looked stressed and worried?" "Yeah?" Caity responded, taking a sip of her coffee. "You'd have seen her not long after her recording a message home to Aimee, just in case." Ash said gently, unsure how much Caity knew about how away missions worked. Caity went quiet, knowing the words that were coming next would be like a knife in her heart. "Just in case she never comes back." Ash said quietly. "It's hard at the top." “More than you can possible understand.” Ash sighed. “That sounded condescending, it wasn’t supposed to. I’ve seen both of them, Ailynn and Trip I mean, in the last few days make decisions that I know will haunt them, forever.” Ash took Caity’s hand in a friendly manner. “I knew both of them at school you know? They both had this...aura about them. Trip was a couple of years younger, but wove people around him. Ailynn…” Caity squeezed her hand gently. A gesture to say you don't have to say any more. “You know my past. It was difficult, but Ailynn has so many other much more profound problems. She tried so hard to fit in, but even in our school, she aced every test I’ve seen her take. They tried to expel her you know. It was hilarious. We were...15, and walked into Xenobiology. Ailynn looked at the board for 5 seconds, answered the question on the board, put her answer on the teachers desk and walked out.” She giggled at the memory. “It was a graduate level Academy entry question. Teacher was not happy, publicly called her out as a cheat. It lost her a lot of friends though. She ended up the only girl in our year lonelier than I was.” Closing her eyes gently, Caity looked back at her friend, "So what do I do?" “Talk to her. As a person, as a girl, talking to another girl...” "I honestly don't know if she would ever respond. Hasn't she just got out of a relationship?" Ash nodded. “That’s another reason that I’m telling you to go easy for the moment, but we could all be dead tomorrow. You knew that when you signed up chick.” "I would always do that. I'm not that girl that would run up to someone and say hey I like you." “I know that you won’t, that’s why I’m talking to you.” "Just promise me…. Don't tell her." Ash nodded, and crossed her heart with her finger and a gentle smile. “Hope to die, stick a needle in my eye…” Caity giggled slightly, "Wow, you really are serious. " “Damn strait huh?....!” Ash giggled. “Look. When you do. Don’t talk to ‘Lieutenant Bracken, First Officer’, don’t talk to ‘Neurosurgeon Bracken, daughter of Fleet Surgeon General Bracken’ That kind of pandering is a massive, massive turn off. Instead…” "I only know her as Ailynn. I have no preconceptions, no pandering will be done." “Talk to Ailynn, talk to that girl under the layers.” Ashlyn gave her the deepest inroad that she could possibly do. It may still not work, Ailynn was a very complex character. "You make her sound like an onion." Caity winked. Ashlyn laughed, “That is more accurate than you can possibly understand.” She smiled deeply. “Keep peeling, and they get sweeter…” She winked with a twinkle. "I could make a comment there but I don't want to get in trouble with the boss." “For pity’s sake, I’m just Ashlyn. The chick with the degree in moving boxes.” She smirked again. "Look, you know some of my past. You asked about Bert earlier. My snake?" “Yeah?” "He wasn't mine originally. He belonged to my sister, Sara. He's my family… well apart from my uncle. I haven't been close with anyone since… Sara…. So rushing into things is not me. " Ashlyn felt her heart sink, on some level she’d guessed that before Caity had finished her sentence. Squeezing the other girl's hand, and then pecking a kiss on the back of her hand in her maternal manner, Ashlyn sighed gently. “I understand. Truly I do.” "I suppose that the fact I have a snake is a bit weird for some. He's a soft soul really. Never hurt anyone. But, and here's the kicker, we are a package deal. Love me, love my snake." She replied with a grin. Ashlyn laughed. “You’re terrible Muriel.” a random movie that she had seen how long ago came back to mind. Ashlynn picked up her cup, sipping deeply once more, looking at her friend carefully, perhaps for the first time. “Prophets, you have got it bad haven’t you….” The deepest of smiles erupted in her soul. "I have no idea what you mean…." Caity paused, smiled and then, lightly and playfully, tapped Ash's arm, ".... oh shut up!" Ashlyn found herself laughing with joy. Desperate to catch her breath, she erupted again. “I am so sorry…” She managed to keep her friends face in her view for half a second, before erupting into laughter again. Eventually, she pulled herself together, biting her bottom lip, she managed to be part sensible. "Now we have the biggest test. The test that has felled many a person. The does my snake like you test?" Caity replied before collapsing into laughter. (Reply none) (Posted by Jackie and Mark (SPC’s)) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<