Illuminar Compile 8 Dates: July 7th, 2020 to July 23rd, 2020 Mission: The Root of Decay, Day 6 to Day 18 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Root of Decay Day: 6 Stardate: 2445.09.6 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 0805) (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 — Ensign Scott Matrix -- 0811) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Root of Decay Day: 12 Stardate: 2445.09.12 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Deep Space Nine – Access Tube behind Quarks Bar – Ensign Dieter Gregory - 13:00) (Deep Space Nine – Access tube behind Quarks – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory – 14:30) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Root of Decay Day: 16 Stardate: 2445.09.16 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 15.00) (USS Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - SPC Luma'lenai - 15.10) (USS Illuminar – Holodeck 2 – NPC PO3 Hercules Devers - 15:20) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: The Root of Decay Day: 18 Stardate: 2445.09.18 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar, Deck 1, Observation Lounge – FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin 1602) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge – Ops Ensign Gregory – 16:55) (USS Illuminar- Deck 4, Transporter Room 1- SecO- PO (1st class) Steven Hammons- 1659) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory -17:00) (Bajor- Ashalla, Government offices Portico - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1708) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - ASCRD Ensign Stennin - 1711) (Bajor - Ashalla, Catacombs - SecO- PO (1st class) Steven Hammons- 1712) (Bajor - Ashalla, Catacombs - SecO- Ensign Janice Hammerfield- 1713) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 – Bridge- Ops – Ensign Dieter Gregory - 1713.5) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1715) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack – The Hotel Manager- 1716) (Bajor-  Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) - 2O, Lieutenant Carson Peters - 1721) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) - SPC COUNS Alaya Ravenstone - 1723) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1725) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) – Security PO3 Hercules Devers- 1725.5) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B- CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal-1737) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - Dean Vedek Horavei Taelsi - 1740) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Outside Room B – Security – PO3 Hercules Devers - 1740.5) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - SPC COUNS Alaya Ravenstone - 1742) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1743) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - 2O, Lieutenant Carson Peters - 1745) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets - Prylar Tekan Herla - 1748) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets - SecO - PO (1st class) Steven Hammons-1750) (USS Illuminar - Deck 7 - CSCRD Office - ASCRD Ensign Stennin - 1750.5) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - Dean Vedek, Horavei Taelsi - 1751) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 1751.5) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Outside Room B – Security – PO3 Hercules Devers - 1755) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1757) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel ) - Un-assigned Ens. Penny Mc Taggard - 17:58) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - 2O, Lieutenant Carson Peters - 1759) (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 18.00) (USS Illuminar - Deck 14 - Chief of Security office - Acting Chief of Security- Ensign (sg) Svend Saarsgard - 1800.5) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel ) - Un-assigned Ens. Penny Mc Taggard - 18:00.75) (USS Illuminar -- Cargo Bay to Transporter -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 1801) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets - Prylar Tekan Herla - 1801.5) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Corridor – Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 1802) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets – Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1802.5) (Bajor - Ashalla, Temple Living Quarters - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 1807) (Ashalla, Bajor - Temple Living Quarters - ACSRD Ensign Stennin - 1810) (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- NPC Barber Civilian Chet Coiffeur -- 1825) (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 18.27) (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- NPC Barber Civilian Chet Coiffeur -- 1835) (Bajor -- Kai's quarters- Doctor Niva Shay -- 1835) (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 18.36) (Bajor -- Temple -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 1840) (Bajor -- Temple -- Bajoran Doctor Niva Shay -- 1842) (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District - ACEO, Ens(sg) T’ay’ia sh’Mila’aa (Taya) - 2045) (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District - Janus - 2140) (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District - Medical Officer, CPO Kathy Miller - 2145) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge –FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin -2154) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge –Ops – Ensign Dieter Gregory -2156) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 6 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 0805) Quinna sat down in sickbay with her cup of coffee. She was reading up on the reports from the overnight shift. Dr. Edwards was quite through with his reports and Quinna never had to follow up with him. Her only patient was Ensign Matrix. He had his leg bone shattered into many pieces. Quinna took her coffee and walked around sickbay. Quinna stopped and looked at Ensign Matrix. Noting that he was sleeping, she chose not to wake him. She reached down at the foot of the biobed and pulled up the 3-d panel. The bones were looking better than the pictures she saw earlier. Quinna was about to move away when she heard a slight moan. She turned to see Ensign Matrix starting to stir. “Good Morning, Ensign Matrix.” Quinna said as she leaned in closer to hear him. (Reply Matrix) “From your point of view, how do you feel?” Quinna asked. She may be able to see what is wrong but she could not feel his pain. (Reply Matrix) (Played by Kris) (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 — Ensign Scott Matrix -- 0811) Scott slowly woke from his bad dream or so he thought. The slumbering pain became more real by the moment and he soon realized it wasn’t a dream. He moaned as he tried to move. His arm and leg were immobilized, preventing him from getting comfortable. He heard a voice. “Good Morning, Ensign Matrix.” Scott looked up realizing he was in sickbay, “I feel like I’ve been here for a long time.” “From your point of view, how do you feel?” “My arm is sore, but my leg is rather painful. How long have I been here?” (Reply Quinna) “The last thing I remember was an explosion and being hurled into a bulkhead…then I sat up and tried to get my bearings…say my leg twisted then now here.” Said Matrix. (Reply Quinna) “How long will I need to remain here?” Scott continued, (Reply Quinna) (Posted by Steve) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 12 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Deep Space Nine – Access Tube behind Quarks Bar – 13:00) Two days since the explosion behind Quarks Bar. Overloaded power conduit caused by some massive Macgyvering to siphon off power from the grid to feed the increasing demand from Quarks holosuits. He hated to admit it, but the Ferengi was one-part insane and one-part genius engineer, at the same time. Training at the Academy didn’t prepare anyone for this sort of mess. Even the Chief was flummoxed how Igeba had managed to not kill himself while circumventing the safeties that were installed on plasma conduits. The team had stabilized the grid and Quarks was still open. However, the Chief had ordered every centimeter of the conduits around Quarks to be full examined and any of Igeba’s handiwork to be removed, and if necessary, brought up to regulation code. Gregory was reviewing a section of the conduit that had been repaired, making sure the repairs were solid when his communicator chirped. =^= Ensign Gregory. Please come to the Infirmary. =^= He slapped his badge, =^= Medical, can it wait? I’m in the middle of a delicate repair here. =^= =^= You have visitors, sir. Relatives of the Bajoran you saved from the explosion. They wish to thank you. =^= Gregory frowned. ~Saved him? I got him to the infirmary where he died later of internal bleeding and the plasma burns. That wasn’t a save in his book.~ =^= Understood medical. I’ll be there just as soon as I finish up. =^= (Deep Space Nine – Infirmary – 13:42) Walking into the Infirmary, Gregory saw two Bajoran’s sitting over in the waiting area. At least he had taken the time to wash up before coming in. A nurse approached him, “Ensign, these are Simo Aic and Afi Shusa, the brother and sister of Simo Krokolo,” she said pointing out the two Bajorans. As they both stood, “I am sorry for your loss,” he said. The male spoke holding out his hand, “Thank you for what you did to help my brother. It was a terrible tragedy.” Gregory grasped the man’s hand and felt a shock. The urge to leave was overwhelming. Quickly releasing the man’s hand, he looked around, but everyone else was busy. The woman moved next to him. “Yes, thank you Ensign. At least my brother didn’t die alone.” “We came to the station to ask you a question, as you were the last one to talk to him when he was alive.” Aic said. “You see, when we claimed the body, something was missing, a small trinket. Nothing of value, other than something sentimental to our family. A small key, perhaps on a chain? You didn’t happen to see it when you rescued him?” The hair on the back of Gregory’s neck stood up. Something wasn’t right here. Yes, he had this key, and it was on a chain, but the man’s dying words were ‘Keep it secret, keep it safe.’ Honor the dying man’s wish or reveal what he had. An ethics dilemma his Andorian ethics instructor would have had a field day with. His mind flashed back to one class in particular. “Mr. Gregory, why do we have the Prime Directive?” she asked him. “Uh. To ensure that the Federation doesn’t adversely impact the development of pre-warp cultures.” That was the answer in the book. “Yes, Mr. Gregory, that is the books answer, but let me repeat. Why do we have the Prime Directive? The Prime Directive states that Federation Ships and crew are expendable to prevent this contamination from happening. Many of our legendary Captain’s and hero’s have violated this Directive instead of sacrificing their ship and their crew.” She paused, “Are you prepared to sacrifice your life on the altar of the Prime Directive? Think about it Mr. Gregory. You are on an exploration mission, encounter a developing society that Star Fleet didn’t know was on the planet. They are at war with each other and you discover another advanced race is supplying arms to one of the parties. Do you do what Kirk did and arm the other side? Come sir, these are command decisions.” Gregory remembered the example that Professor Sh’ezirherh was referring too. Kirk was exonerated by Star Fleet, which was at war with the Klingons at the time. “As Machiavelli said, ‘The ends justify the means’, Professor, In that case we were at war with the Klingon Empire and to not support the other side, meant they would gain a strategic advantage over Star Fleet.” “Ah, so there are limits on the Prime Directive then?” She was baiting him, and he fell for it, hook line and sinker. It resulted in him having to write an essay about the Prime Directive and why it was central to Star Fleet and Federation policy. “Excuse me Ensign,” Aic said, “Did you find a key where my brother was injured.” “Sorry, sir. I was trying to remember. No I don’t think I recall seeing a key. Most of the damaged material has been brought down to storage for recycling. I’ll check the manifest.” “Computer display reclaimed material from explosion on Stardate twenty four forty five point zero nine point one zero. Scan and see if a key or key like object was reported.” [Working. The records reveal that there was no such item entered into the record.] Gregory turned back to the two Bajorans, “I can look again to see if I find anything. Do you know any more about what the key was made of, it’s shape? Anything I can use to scan for it?” “I am sorry Ensign, it is a family heirloom, and very important to us, but we don’t know anything more. We tried to find a picture, but didn’t,” Shusa said. “Thank you for your time Ensign,” Aic replied, “And your efforts. Walk with the Prophets.” The two both bowed briefly and walked out of the infirmary. Gregory shook his head, wondering what it all meant. (Reply none) (Posted by Tim B) (Deep Space Nine – Access tube behind Quarks – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory – 14:30) After the strange encounter in the infirmary, Gregory went back to work in the access tube. Once there, he checked that the key and chain were in the storage compartment. He didn’t know how to explain it, but those two gave him a bad vibe. Not enough to report to security, heck the security officer on duty probably would laugh him out of the office. Returning to the task at hand, he continued to check the new connections and the repairs. So far, all ship shape and Bristol fashion. (Deep Space Nine – Replimat– OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory – 16:30) Deter stretched again as he reached the replimat. There was no accounting for proper access design, that or the Cardassians could bend better than he could. He walked over to the replicator, “Tea, double strength, single sweet. Hot.” When the cup appeared, Gregory walked to an empty table and sat down. He put his kit on the chair next to him. Sipping his tea, he watched as people scurried about their daily lives, wandering the Promenade. The occasional shout of ‘Dabo’ from Quarks breaking through the noise. Gregory started to look around more closely. That feeling he got in the Infirmary was back. Someone was watching him. Why? Hard to determine with all the people moving about. Not much he could do about it, Security would think him a nutjob and his call to Ops about the giant Bajoran he saw had made the rounds. Pretty soon he’d have to see a counselor. The commander would demand it. With thoughts turning in his head, he missed the first call. =^= Ensign Gregory, report to the Science Station in Ops =^= ~Wonder what this is about?~ he thought, tapping his Comm Badge =^= Gregory Acknowledged. On my way. =^= Drinking down as much of his tea as he could, he left the mug in the receptacle and headed towards Operations. He didn’t see the Bajoran grab the mug out of the receptacle and disappear to parts unknown. (Deep Space Nine – Operations – Science Station – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory – 17:05) Arriving at Ops, the nerve center of the station, he glanced over to see Murdok and Lieutenant Johnson huddled over the Science station screens. “So, what have we got?” Gregory asked. “We have been analyzing the probe data and have found some interesting data,” the Lieutenant said. “Murdok take it away.” “As you know, we’ve been monitoring the telemetry of the Omicron particles coming towards the station from the Dennorios belt. Their field strength had been increasing, with a constant course. Our projections were that the field strength would reach 10 and start interference in the low band sensors on 2445.09.14. In reviewing the records as I try to make more sense out of this phenomenon I noticed a strange reading on 2445.09.10, at 12:30 to be precise.” Murdok tapped the keypad and a map came up on the screen. “Watch the blue trajectory, please.” As Gregory watched, there was a sudden blip in blue that appeared about 100,000 km off of the Station. The vector moved towards the Station. As it got closer, the station got larger. The vector passed through the station before fading out. “Where did it pass?” Gregory asked. “The trajectory took it through the Bajoran temple and through section 5.” Murdok replied. “Let me guess, it passed through the EPS conduit where Igeba had done his work.” Gregory asked, knowing the answer. “Yes, it did. And interestingly, it lost 90 percent of its strength right here.” Murdok said, pointing to a position on the map. Gregory did a double take, “Where I found that Bajoran?” “Correct.” “What the heck is going on?” he asked to no one in particular. The Lieutenant spoke, “That is a very good question Ensign. I think we need to go back there and do some more detailed scans of the area. I would love to study the body as well, to see if there are any residual information we can pick up.” “That might not be possible,” Gregory replied, “His family claimed the body earlier today and as far as I know left the station on the 1600 shuttle.” “That is most unfortunate,” Murdok said. “Perhaps we can ask a Bajoran science team to do the scans for us.” Gregory thought a moment, “Their names were Simo Aic and Afi Shusa. The deceased man was named Simo Krokolo.” “OK. I will make the necessary calls to Bajor, and get a team to sweep the area,” the Lieutenant said. “You should get some sleep Gregory. I know the Chief has been running you and the whole team ragged.” “I heard that,” came the Chief’s voice from the pit. “Go ahead Gregory. Get some rest, I’ll need you back on at 0100 to do some more work when the Promenade is shut down. I think all of Igeba’s work has caused some other issues in section 8 and 12.” “Yes, Chief, I can’t wait. See you at 0100,” he called out as he headed to towards the turbolift. (Deep Space Nine – Habitat Ring 3 – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory – 18:25) Gregory tapped on the door panel to his quarters. The door slid open to reveal a complete disarray. The room has been torn apart, clothing thrown around, beds on the floor, it was a mess. “Computer, who last opened the door to my quarters? And when?” [The door was last accessed by Ensign Dieter Gregory at 1730 hours. ~What the hell!~ He tapped his Comm badge. =^= Gregory to Security. Can you please come to my quarters urgently? There is something amiss. =^ (Reply – none, unless you want to get into the fun of this backpost) (Posted by Tim B) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 16 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 15.00) Ariel went to the officers mess to have a plate of Gagh. It wasn't the true authentic Gagh she had with her father on Betazed but it was close enough. She needed to build up her strength for the Rite of Ascension. She ate her Gagh with some blood wine which was sub par but close enough. Normally it would take a month to prepare for the Ascension but time constraints may force her to do it between missions on Mars or travel time on the Illuminar. Either way she had to get started. She instructed the computer to create her home world of Betazed. She instructed the computer to have insects similar to Yellow Jackets on Tera but their sting not as potent. She had to build up her pain resistance. The Rite involves a series of pain sticks in a gauntlet line of progression. It is extremely difficult for a woman to complete the Rite and more so for a hybrid or not full blood Klingon so she had to train hard. Her Father trained hard and still had a hard time completing the Rite. Of course he is a hybrid like she is but it is easier for a man than a woman. The computer beeped indicating the program was ready. She entered the scene to the beautiful Betazed fields and countryside .She instructed the computer to have the yellow jackets to sting without the venom. The sting will have the pain but not leave the mark of the sting or the effect of the venom. This way she will build up pain resistance of which she intended to do . She walked around the fields smelling the wonderful flowers when she felt the first sting. It was as she remembered. The sting was most unpleasant but not that painful. She remembered when you feel one sting, many more will quickly follow. This was the case. She was multiply stung as she ran away from the flower. The pain was beginning to feel noticeable. She ran to the arc door and ordered the computer to pause program. The computer paused the program and saved the program. She will add to the program to increase her pain resistance . She rubber her arms and legs to soften the pain. This was a good first training session for the Rite. Unfortunately the pain had to be much higher. She will work up to that. She left the Holodeck. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) (USS Illuminar - Holodeck 1 - SPC Luma'lenai - 15.10) Luma kept a watch on all of her small ones, particularly the more interesting of those. She found the one known as Trei to be very interesting, a study in contradictions. The Betazoid people were descendants of the Illumani, the people who had died aboard the generation ship that she had been on for hundreds of years. Colonies of those people had been seeded and some had apparently become very telepathic, where as with the Illumani the telepathy was a bred for gift among a sect of the generation ship, so that she could have effective bondmates. Luma often wondered which of her people had been the bondmate of the ship that had settled Betazed hundreds of thousands of years ago. Another civilization that had been fleeing from destruction, which had thankfully survived. Luma liked the illusions of the idyllic peaceful planet that Trei had conjured. What Luma did NOT like was that Trei was doing something to harm herself. Luma was not to interfere unless it was a life or death situation, so she watched, wishing she could cry as Trei deliberately had pain inflicted upon herself. ::My Vex!:: Luma cried, showing Vex telepathically what Trei was doing, not understanding what was going on. ::Why is The Trei harming herself needlessly? Luma is concerned!:: Luma did not wait for Vex to reply, absolutely NOT pleased. She opened a communications circuit to where Quinna was, and informed her of Trei's silliness. =^= The Sol's Ice, you will find out why the Trei is deliberately inflicting pain upon herself on Holodeck 1 and explain it to Luma. It hurts and Luma does not understand. Is it normal to have small insects harming a small one? =^= Luma was often confused, but the small ones where hers to protect, even from themselves. =^= The Trei is obviously suffering mentally. She should see You or Our Alaya. Luma does NOT approve. =^= Luma waited for information, wincing mentally as Trei was stung again and again. Someone would explain this to her. And if it did not make sense, Luma would tell Our Sekal and he would fix it. (reply Quinna, Vex, any) (posted by Mel) (USS Illuminar – Holodeck 2 – NPC PO3 Hercules Devers - 15:20) The crowds were cheering loudly. Both fighters were circling each other, testing each other’s defenses. A jab here, a kick there. Both men were tired, as this was the 9th round of a 10-round fight. The Judges’ cards were pretty even as the fighters were pretty well matched. Suddenly, the fighter in the black shorts moved in for a jab. The tattooed man in red shorts jumped to the side, just in time and launched a roundhouse kick at his opponent. His aim was true and he landed the kick in the middle of his opponents left side. Black shorts fell to the map, moaning in pain and grabbing where he had been kicked. The fighter in red called out, “Computer, end program.” The holodeck room appeared as the man bent down, “Alex, you ok?” he asked. “Damned Hercules, you got me good. I didn’t expect that kick. Wow. I think you bruised my ribs.” Hercules reached down to help Alex up. “Come on man, let’s get you to the infirmary. Doc can check you out.” Alex put his arm around the shorter man’s shoulders and leaned on him as they walked out of the holodeck and into the corridor. “Which way to the infirmary? I don’t know this ship well enough yet.” Alex said. “Let’s ask that person, she’s wearing Blue,” Hercules said. “Excuse me,” he called out. (Respond Trei) “Sorry Ma’am,” he said looking at her rank. “Can you direct us to the infirmary.” “Yea,” Alex said, with a wince, “This lug landed a solid kick on my ribs.” “You have a tell Alex, when you’re going to be open. I couldn’t help myself.” Hercules replied. “Sorry Ma’am. You were saying?” (Response Trei) “Thank you, Ma’am.” The two men said in unison. Heading, slowly off to the infirmary, Alex spoke up. “A tell man? What do you mean?” “Your hips Alex. Your hips give you away. You were setting up for a throw, I just timed it right. Otherwise, I was undefended and you’ve have been all over me.” Entering the infirmary, Hercules saw a nurse’s eyes open wide looking at the two men. No shirts, no shoes, just shorts and what looked like some open fingered gloves. The shorter one had a tattoo on his arm, while the taller one had a growing bruise on his left side. “He bobbed when he should have weaved,” Hercules said as he guided Alex to the bed that the nurse pointed too before running off to get a doctor. “How you doing Alex?” “It only hurts when I laugh man,” He replied. (Replies Trei (if you want), any doctor in the house) (Posted by Tim B) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Day: 18 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (USS Illuminar, Deck 1, Observation Lounge – FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin 1602) Sienna had not been needed on the bridge for the landing of the Illuminar on Bajor. She knew that Sekal would want to be there, simply because it was an unusual procedure and this would be the first time that the starship would ever land. They had not done that particular function during the space trials. They should have, but it was not in the standard protocols. ::Luma does not like this landing on the planet business. The skin belongs in space. What if it doesn't get off the planet again?:: Sienna tried very hard not to laugh at Luma's grumpiness at the landing. Sy kept her hand on the observation window as they flared through the atmosphere. It was thrilling, to say the least. ::We will be able to get the Illuminar off the ground again, I promise, Luma.:: Sy reassured the alien that lived in the ship. ::Has Vex explained it to you?:: Luma was quiet as she monitored the flight that Lt. GreyWolf was exacting from space to the ground. Luma was taking no chances. The ship did not even shudder as she sat perfectly down on the earth. Sienna took that moment to head back out onto the Bridge. She had the Ship while Sekal was going to be playing the diplomat. Better than her that was true. Sy took a moment to say a prayer to the Betazoid Goddess that Trip, Rissa and Ash would be well. And Lynn. Opening her eyes she exited onto the Bridge to smile as Sekal headed out. Sy took the command seat and took a deep breath. This was the first real attempt on her abilities. (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge - FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin - 16:54) Alyl, Stennin and Gregory were getting the same feeling that Sy was getting, that they needed to keep all their people under constant surveillance in order to pull them out of danger quickly. Sy nodded as the guys talked and she approved it. "If I remember correctly, the comm badges can transmit a limited amount of bio data as well - I want that tied into the sensor map so that if anything happens, Luma can quickly beam our people out. I don't get the impression that Bajor is telling us all of the truth." ::Luma, you will keep a weathered eye on our people for me, please. So no one harms your small ones.:: Sy persuaded, trying to jolly Luma out of her funk at being stuck on the planet where she didn't believe her starship should be. “Ma’am, I’d suggest we alert the Bajorans that we’re going to be launching two probes into orbit. They may not take kindly to an unannounced and unauthorised launch into their space.” Sienna nodded, putting her best Starfleet demeanor on, "Indeed Mr. Alyl. Open a channel to Bajoran Space Control." =^= Bajoran Control. =^= "This is First Officer Verin of the Illuminar. My scientists wish to launch two geosynchronous probes into orbit. May we have permission?" She kept it simple. There was silence for about a minute, then the circuit reopened, =^= Feel free, Illuminar. Have your Navigator interface with us at launch. Bajoran Control out.=^= Sy blinked at the terse reply, as the viewscreen changed back to the previous view. "Once we have that going accurately, put it on the main viewscreen, please. Feel free to launch the probes at your leisure Mr. Gregory." (Reply Gregory, any on the Bridge) (posted by Mel) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge – Ops Ensign Gregory – 16:55) The Science officer, Jaton, spoke “Ma’am, I’d suggest we alert the Bajorans that we’re going to be launching two probes into orbit. They may not take kindly to an unannounced and unauthorized launch into their space.” ~An excellent idea.~ Working the Ops board, he opened a channel to the Bajoran military. “Ma’am, I have opened a channel to the Bajoran Space Command. A Captain Hisher Gizdithe on the line.” (Reply Verin, any) Gregory monitored the conversation and when it was complete, he cut the link. “Not very friendly. Very unusual from all the Bajoran’s I’ve known.” “So what do you want us to do Ma’am?” Gregory asked (Reply Verin, any) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge – Ops Ensign Gregory – 17:20) He watched the ebb and flow of the bridge for a bit. Clearly things were quiet, but a bit tense. At his station, Gregory started running some small programs to monitor the power needs of the ship, while keeping enough in reserve should there be some emergency. That done, he turned to the spare screen on the console. With a few strokes, he opened a design program and entitled the file ‘SPOTS prototype 1’. This was an idea he’d been thinking about for a while. The idea came to him about 3 months into his tour of Deep Space 9, but the Chief kept him busy so he didn’t have any time to work on the idea. Hopefully the commander wouldn’t mind is prototyping work, especially since SPOTS should help improve operational efficiency on the ship. If this worked, there could be a whole host of special applications that a SPOTS system would help with. As he entered the various parameters he had in mind for the prototype, he hoped that the shell would be able to hold all of the equipment and scanners he was proposing. He looked at the shell again with an eye for functionality, yes, it would do quite nicely. He hit enter to allow to program to determine the optimal configuration. Now it was time to wait. Returning to the Ops main screen, he started reviewing the various issues that happened on the Ship makers trials. Good to know what they thought of the ship. (Reply Verin, any) (Posted by Tim B) (USS Illuminar- Deck 4, Transporter Room 1- SecO- PO (1st class) Steven Hammons- 1659) ."Evening folks. We got a party going on?" Announced the approach of Lieutenant Peters, his smile telegraphed the fact that he appeared to be enjoying the chance to see some action. Hammons grinned as his greeting was answered by others, everyone had their game face on it appeared and behind the smiles and banter were intense eyes. ~Good. That's what we need. Nothing gets by unnoticed, it will keep us alive and get the job done.~ (Reply any) "Let's get this show on the road shall we?" That got everyone moving. (Reply: Talence) On the transporter platform Carson whispered to Steven. "How did the Commander like his escort?" Hammons turned his head and gave him a grin and a wink then whispered back. "Let's just say he bowed to the inevitable without too much fuss. It must give you a warm and fuzzy knowing he can't go anywhere without your approval." Then he gave a chortle. "Good, Good." The second officer gave a wicked grin. "You may proceed with Transport when ready." And with seconds they were whisked away. (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple Hotel - SecO- PO (1st Class) Steven Hammons - 1705) The hotel was old but quite well kept up and ornate Steven judged after they had materialized in the lobby. Unlike some that might have gone to seed as time passed the religious authorities had made sure it put a good foot forward to the public. His eyes were taking in every detail as well as looking for anything out of the ordinary as the Lieutenant bantered with the hotel manager who after playing dumb gave in and produced what looked like a set of old keys. Steven fell in at the rear of the group as they went to the sub basement but kept his eyes and ears open. He found the whole key scanning routine to be curious but decided that the keys themselves were a blind holding a chip that allowed entry which made sense. Someone seeing that ring of keys might well overlook it thinking them of no importance. ~Another layer of deception to hide a secret underground tunnel. Not a bad idea, pretty smart actually.~ He kept his guard up as the senior officers set the men in order for entry into the tunnel. (Reply: Talence, Tamblyn, Hammerfield, Peters, any) (Posted by Charles G) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory -17:00) Gregory listened as Lieutenant Verin suggested adding bio data to the overlays. ~A great idea.~ He was warming up to the first officer as she dealt with the Bajoran Control, who gave permission to launch the probes. He thought it was going to be a bigger fight. Lieutenant Verin gave the command. “Feel free to launch the probes at your leisure Mr. Gregory.” “Aye. Aye, Ma’am.” Gregory replied. After a final check of the flight plan, he send the information to Bajoran Control. “Preparing to launch probes. All systems are green and signal is strong.” Gregory called out. “Probe one away.” he said after sending the launch command. “Probe one is on track. All systems nominal. Estimated time to orbit 8 minutes.” Turning his attention back to his console, “Preparing to launch probe 2,” he announced. Following the same drill as before, he sent the flight plan to Bajoran control. “Probe two away.” Gregory called out. “Probe 2 systems are green. Signal is strong. All systems are nominal. Orbit in 8 minutes.” (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge – OPS Ensign Dieter Gregory -17:10) “Science, telemetry from probe one is transferred to your station, now,” Gregory called out to Alyl. Another few buttons before Gregory spoke again. “Science, telemetry on probe two is transferred to your station, now.” (Reply Alyl, if any) ~Now we wait.~ Gregory thought. (Reply Alyl, bridge) (Written by Tim B) (Bajor- Ashalla, Government offices Portico - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1708) Sekal slowed and took a tricorder from the male security officer as they exited the government building, turned it on and set it to record audio as he walked. "Captain's log, supplemental. Stardate twenty four, forty five, zero nine, eighteen:" "Illuminar has landed on Bajor without incident and security teams have left the ship to reinforce the Bajoran contingent enforcing the quarantine at the temple." "Myself and Counselor Ravenstone have just met with the Minister of Security for the Bajoran government and while tensions were known to be high his stated desire to assassinate the Prylar who is instigating unrest there was astonishing. I will be adding orders for the Prylar's protection if possible to my security teams and if he dies under suspicious circumstances I will be issuing a sworn statement to command." "Our next intended stop is to meet the Dean of Vedeks who is in seclusion with a number of his compatriots in a detached hotel used by the leaders of the Bajoran religion." "End log." (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - ASCRD Ensign Stennin - 1711) Stennin tapped some commands on the console as he carefully watched the atmospheric scans. The teams down at the labs were currently sending up all their work, but nothing appeared out of the ordinary. He had watched as the probes were being launched and reached their destinations. He was interrupted by the sound of the OPS officer. “Science, telemetry from probe one is transferred to your station, now," he said. Stennin looked closely and saw the telemetry coming into view. “Science, telemetry on probe two is transferred to your station, now.” Gregory concluded. Stennin watched again as the number came unto the screen. He quickly scanned the telemetry, and with a few buttons, opened a few algorithms that overlaid the telemetry on the planetary view. Stennin frowned as he watched the variables taking shapes. "Ensign, are the probes working correctly?" (Reply Gregory) "Affirmative. There appears to be a discrepancy in the magnetic readings." (Reply Gregory) Stennin watched some time, and then tapped some commands to zoom in on the map. He frowned again, but nodded slowly. "The magnetometer on the probes registered a decrease of almost 5 percent in the geomagnetic field near sector 12. The very region where the first victims of the sickness were sighted." (Reply Gregory) Stennin rose a brow, before he tapped some more commands. "It does indeed look illogical. Judging from orbital sensors, the magnetic strength has decreased .74 percent each day for the last three weeks. It seems to be focused on this Bajoran Temple." He pointed towards a large structure that stood at the heart of the affected temple. (Reply Gregory) "It would be logical to begin our investigation in this very region. I will assemble the necessary medical and science teams, provided with an agreeable security detachment." Stennin commanded. He then nodded and went for the turbolift. (Reply, Gregory, Bridge) (Written by Yoerik van Heugten) (Bajor - Ashalla, Catacombs - SecO- PO (1st class) Steven Hammons- 1712) The catacombs were barely wide enough for two men to walk abreast. What had hit Steven as they entered was a musty odor which assailed his nostrils and partially closed his sinuses almost instantly. The walls were rough hewn out of rock some time in the distant past and a trickle of water could be heard somewhere in the distance. The floor was damp and could be slippery if booted feet didn't take precautions. Making sure of ones footing rather that steeping blithely ahead could be a detriment to ones balance. There was din lighting spaced every so often upon the ceiling so that one could see well enough but dark spots could be seen because of the unevenness of the walls. They could easily be simple irregularities causing shadows by a trick of the lighting or perhaps one could walk upon a side passage unaware until the last moment. The air was stale and the noise of many moving through it at once made it impossible to be silent though everyone proceeded cautiously. Steven didn't like this narrow underground warren and was going to be more than happy to leave it. (Reply: Talence, Hammerfield or Tamblyn) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor - Ashalla, Catacombs - SecO- Ensign Janice Hammerfield- 1713) Janice edged through some tight spaces in the narrow hallways - occasionally having to suck her gut in to prevent her equipment scraping along the rock face. She couldn’t decide what was worse. The darkness, wetness, or the smell. Every so often the sound of a footstep would echo unnervingly in the distance. She could only presume that this was intentional to make it harder for people to be followed just by sound alone and the narrow rock faces to block light sources. Suddenly she paused looking at the wall, she could swear it was moving towards her. Pushing her hands out she held it firmly as her back pressed against the adjacent wall as her breathing raised sharply and she let out a small gasp. (Reply: Talence, Hammnos or Tamblyn) The wall of course was not moving towards her and she cautiously pulled her hands off the wall and stood up slowly fixing her uniform and taking a deep breath, “I suppose now is a bad time to mention I was treated for some claustrophobia a while back.” Her eyes looked at them sheepishly have to explain this now that they her here. (Reply: Talence, Hammnos or Tamblyn) “Its ok... Ill be ok...” taking a quick moment she closed her eyes and focused herself again remembering all the counselling and holodeck therapy she had went through to be able to get into these spaces, “Ok.. sorry... lets keep going. Its not too far right?” (Reply: Talence, Hammnos or Tamblyn) (Posted by Adam P) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 – Bridge- Ops – Ensign Dieter Gregory - 1713.5) Gregory finished transferring the telemetry of the probes to Science to monitor. "Ensign, are the probes working correctly?" the science officer asked. “Running diagnostic check now,” Gregory replied as he typed in the commands. “I show both probes are running nominally. They have passed standard diagnostic check.” "Affirmative. There appears to be a discrepancy in the magnetic readings." Gregory furrowed his brow. He looked into the telemetry data, as well as the ships sensor data. “I confirm your findings Science. There appears to be magnetic anomalies. Trying to isolate now.” "The magnetometer on the probes registered a decrease of almost 5 percent in the geomagnetic field near sector 12. The very region where the first victims of the sickness were sighted." Science reported. “Isolating now,” Gregory replied. “I am boosting ship sensors to increase magnetic field sensitivity. Probes are now at maximum.” “Confirming the decrease in sector 12. Magnetic fields are not my specialty Science, but I’d say that is pretty odd. I don’t remember hearing anything on Deep Space Nine about magnetic anomalies, but I was usually busy fixing things and cleaning waste reclamation systems. ” "It does indeed look illogical. Judging from orbital sensors, the magnetic strength has decreased .74 percent each day for the last three weeks. It seems to be focused on this Bajoran Temple.” Gregory looked with the science officer pointed. “Let me see what I can do,” Gregory replied. “Names Gregory by the way. Dieter Gregory.” Gregory worked over his console. “I’ve tapped into the Bajoran weather feed and satellites. Downloading data now.” (Reply Steinin, if wished) "It would be logical to begin our investigation in this very region. I will assemble the necessary medical and science teams, provided with an agreeable security detachment." “Makes sense Mr Stennin. Do you have someone in Science I can work with to run some models on this? If not I have a friend on the Station. It might be a bit slow with the distance, but he’s very good at this type of thing.” (Reply Stennin) (Written by Tim) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1715) His party materialized in the lobby of the hotel, the floor was of tiles worked into intricate patterns which hinted at some deeper meaning perhaps stored up in the past of the planet. The walls were stuccoed and cream in color. Tall plants in terracotta pots adorned the corners and a small fountain backlit by a cobalt blue light sat in the center of the righthand wall while a bank of lifts were beyond the front desk and to the left. The front desk itself was expansive though there was only one Bajoran standing behind it who wore a welcoming smile as if guests beaming into his hotel was an every day occurrence and perhaps it was. Sekal's eyes flitted back over one of the plants who's pot was too small to contain much soil and marked it as a synthetic, dead material formed in the semblance of living vegetation to give the illusion of life. The booted steps of he and his party clicked upon the tiles as he moved to stand before the man. (Reply: Alaya, Hotel Manager) "The Dean of Vedeks is expecting us. What room please?"" (Reply: Hotel Manager) Sekal nodded. "Thank you." (Reply: Hotel Manager, Alaya) He turned to see Lieutenant Peters exit a stairwell and move in their direction. As the group came together he spoke with a nod. "Lieutenant." (Reply: Carson) Sekal's gaze moved from his 2/0 to the stairwell then back. "Another challenge has been added. I have received news of a credible threat on the life of the Prylar. As soon as the security teams make contact inform them of this. They are to keep as close a watch on him as possible and attempt to intervene if they see any threat aimed toward him." (Reply: Carson) The Vulcan's lips narrowed before he answered. "The death of Prylar Tekan would leave ripples that are impossible to predict other than that it will adversely affect the future of Bajor and it cannot be allowed to happen." (Reply: Carson, Alaya, any present) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack – The Hotel Manager- 1716) The managers eyes glazed over the man approaching. Another Starfleet officer. Looking at the pips one the collar he looked over, “Sir... welcome to out hotel. Hotel Manager T’rell. How many I help you!” He seemed far more accommodating to a person of rank. (Reply: Alaya) "The Dean of Vedeks is expecting us. What room please?"" "Of course – room 221 B – the baker suite. A fantastic choice of room really.” He smiled. Sekal nodded. "Thank you." "Yes, yes. If you need anything else please don’t hesitate to contact me or one of my staff. Second floor third door on the right.” The man moved back to his desk waiting for another opportunity to present itself for attracting more high ranking clientele. (Reply any iyw) (Posted by Adam P) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) - 2O, Lieutenant Carson Peters - 1721) Having walked down to the sub-basement with the Security Team, he had then returned to the foyer of the hotel after giving the team a few last minute orders in regards to getting in contact with the Bajoran Security Forces once they arrived, to check back in with him once they had done so and to be careful. As he stepped back into the Foyer he immediately noticed that Sekal had arrived with the Counsellor. He headed towards the Commander, a small smile attached to his face as he saw the Security attachment sticking to the Vulcan. As the group came together Sekal spoke with a nod. "Lieutenant." "Sir." Carson said, "The Security team are now on their way to secure the Temple. We should have it under control within the next 60 minutes."   Sekal's gaze moved from his 2/0 to the stairwell then back. "Another challenge has been added. I have received news of a credible threat on the life of the Prylar. As soon as the security teams make contact inform them of this. They are to keep as close a watch on him as possible and attempt to intervene if they see any threat aimed toward him."   "Once they've secured the Temple, I'll ask them to look into this. Though may I say so, Sir?" and he moved in a little closer, "Is it within our mandate to be dealing with issues that should be completed via the local authorities?" The Vulcan's lips narrowed before he answered. "The death of Prylar Tekan would leave ripples that are impossible to predict other than that it will adversely affect the future of Bajor and it cannot be allowed to happen." Carson stepped back, "Understood. I'll have them locate and monitor the Prylar as soon as we can. The Hotel can continue to be used as base for now, several teams are setting up in various locations. I was about to locate the Dean Vedek, though I'll happily defer that conversation to you two if that's what you're here for."  (Reply Ravenstone, Sekal) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) - SPC COUNS Alaya Ravenstone - 1723) Alaya had traveled quietly from the meeting to the temple hotel with Sekal and her approved security contingent. She caught Carson's grin and knew that he had been in on it with her Hammons. She was going to have a word with him, one that would likely end with him kissing her into hushing. She wasn't truly upset with him, but it was expected for her to put up a token protest. Sekal spoke to Carson about what they had heard in the office concerning the Prylar. "Understood. I'll have them locate and monitor the Prylar as soon as we can. The Hotel can continue to be used as base for now, several teams are setting up in various locations. I was about to locate the Dean Vedek, though I'll happily defer that conversation to you two if that's what you're here for." Carson replied to that particular conversation. Alaya looked towards Sekal. She was almost looking forward to that conversation. She was trained in diplomacy specifically, but Sekal was gifted at it. It was said that diplomats were not made, they were born. That was true to some extent. "Sir?" She asked softly, "Why can't we beam the Kai out to an isolation room on the Illuminar? I don't really understand what reason these people will not leave that building. I got the feeling that there is some underlying political game being played and that the Kai's death would be almost preferable." (reply Sekal, Carson) (posted by Mel) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1725) "Understood. I'll have them locate and monitor the Prylar as soon as we can. The Hotel can continue to be used as base for now, several teams are setting up in various locations. I was about to locate the Dean Vedek, though I'll happily defer that conversation to you two if that's what you're here for." Sekal shrugged. "You may accompany us if you wish and as for where the threat to Prylay Tekan's life originated from," he quirked an eyebrow at the Lieutenant, "that threat came from the minister of security." "Sir?" Sekal turned his head to Counselor Ravenstone. "Why can't we beam the Kai out to an isolation room on the Illuminar? I don't really understand what reason these people will not leave that building. I got the feeling that there is some underlying political game being played and that the Kai's death would be almost preferable." He nodded. "I was going to bring that very subject up with the Dean as he is temporary head of the Vedek Council during the Kai's absence. I believe he can be made to see reason and if not..." his eyes moved back and forth between the two, "...I will support Doctor Solice unequivocally if she believes it necessary. Her treatment would certainly be simplified on Illuminar." He then gave Counselor Ravenstone a long look. "As we agreed Counselor." (Reply: Alaya, Carson) He strode to the nearest lift which was available then entered it with the other four following. The two security officers entered last so that they would be the first off. It didn't take long for then to reach their destination. (Reply: Alaya, Carson, Devers, Lanis) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor- CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1730) The lift stopped and the two security stepped out first then moved ahead far enough that everyone could exit. At the far end of the hallway was their destination and two Bajoran temple guards were on watch outside the doors. Sekal nodded as he took note of them then he motioned Devers and Lanis close and spoke in a low voice to them. "No one is to enter or leave the Dean's quarters without my orders. You are to wait outside, watch everyone closely and follow that order. You will not allow yourself to be disarmed. Am I clear?" (Reply: Devers, Lanis, Alaya, Carson) He strode down the hallway until he stood before the two men who were watching their approach with narrowed eyes and suspicious looks and stopped before them. "Lieutenant Commander Sekal with Counselor Alaya Ravenstone and Lieutenant Carson Peters to see Dean Vedek Horavei. He is expecting me." He waited while the guard on the right verified this before nodding and motioning him in after satisfying himself that he wore no weapon. (Reply: All present) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel) – Security PO3 Hercules Devers- 1725.5) Devers was thrilled to be assigned to the Commander for the mission. Not quite diplomatic security of his grandfathers day, but one can only hope and anticipate that there will be trouble. It’s a volatile situation He was also Lanis. Like him, a new transfer to the Illuminar. He had seen her in meetings, but they had never been scheduled together. Not really paying attention to the conversation the Commander was having, he kept looking around, trying to anticipate danger. Maybe he was being too high strung, but one cannot be too careful. The conversations wound down, and the Commander and party headed towards a bank of lifts. Devers fell in on the left while Landis took the right. The commander and party entered the lift. He let Landis in first before finally backing in. So far, nothing jumped out at him. (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor- Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 1730) As the lift came to a stop, Devers and Landis exited, securing either side of the corridor. At the far end of the corridor was a door guarded by Bajoran temple guards. The Commander paused and motioned the security team close. "No one is to enter or leave the Dean's quarters without my orders. You are to wait outside, watch everyone closely and follow that order. You will not allow yourself to be disarmed. Am I clear?" the Commander said. “Aye, aye, Sir.” Devers said quietly. He did a quick check to ensure his Type 2 Phaser was holstered, but ready. A more discrete check confirmed his Type 1 phaser was right next to his telescoping baton. It would take an effort to disarm the man. Many people had underestimated Hercule’s agility, focusing instead on his bulk, earned through years of weightlifting. (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor- Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 1735) As the door closed behind the Commander and his party, Devers moved to take position next to the guard on the left, Devers looked him up and down. He didn’t know if the guards were ceremonial or were actually trained. Ears and eyes alert and listening, Devers stood at his post. (Reply: any) (Posted by Tim B) (Bajor- Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B- CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal - 1737) Sekal moved through the doorway and noted an ornate desk on the left with the Bajoran Vedek Horavei busily reading something behind it. The room into which he had been set was actually a suite of rooms which appeared to include this end of the floor. This first room looked to have been the living area which had been converted into a temporary office as it retained a couch, small table and a number of hotel supplied easy chairs which had been rearranged to include his work area. A number of furnishings were included which he surmised were added since they appeared to be of a personal nature, adornments which were either hung on the walls or placed in the corners. When the Bajoran turned his attention to him the Vulcan stepped forward. "Vedek Horavei you have my gratitude for seeing us." With his hand he indicated his companions. "Counselor Alaya Ravenstone and Lieutenant Peters my second officer." (Reply: Horavei) He nodded and moved the chair closer to the desk before seating himself. "It is not my intention to take up a lot of your time however I have some questions if you would indulge me." (Reply: Horavei) Sekal leaned back in the chair which softened his bearing. "Since Bajor became a Federation member world it appears to have prospered quite well. What is your stance on Bajor as a member of the Federation and subject to its laws?" (Reply: Horavei) He nodded. "It is my understanding that under Bajoran law an individual may decide to end their life in whatever manner they find fitting. This is a fascinating concept. Did Kai Hetel leave such orders concerning her own demise? Or to be more precise was it her order that she be allowed to expire within the temple and was not to be removed?" (Reply: Horavei) "And what of the others that are confined within? I find the edict against their removal to be of interest." (Reply: Horavei) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - Dean Vedek Horavei Taelsi - 1740) Leaning back in the brown office chair and reading the daily news which had been brought to him by one of the hotel staff, Horavei was vaguely aware that a group of Starfleet officers had stepped into the room. ~They're here then.~ he thought to himself as he thumbed a page to read later, waited a full thirty seconds and then moved his attention to the Vulcan. "Vedek Horavei you have my gratitude for seeing us." With his hand he indicated his companions. "Counselor Alaya Ravenstone and Lieutenant Peters my second officer." Without standing up he nodded to each of the Vulcans companions, he noted that the man had chosen not to introduce himself. ~Clearly assumes his reputation precedes him~ "Please, take a seat. Don't stand on ceremony in such dire times." he waved his hand over several of the empty chairs. "It is not my intention to take up a lot of your time however I have some questions if you would indulge me." The Vulcan continued as he pulled a chair closer to him. Horavei noticed that Second Officer continued to stand, clearly Security trained and was looking for threats and wanted to be able to move if needed. "I appreciate that. There is still so much to do. We are hopeful you will be able to contain the threat of this outbreak so it doesn't affect the wider population. Guided by the Prophets of course." "Since Bajor became a Federation member world it appears to have prospered quite well. What is your stance on Bajor as a member of the Federation and subject to its laws?" The Vulcan asked. Horavei thought about the question for a moment. It seemed like the man was trying to bait him into a trap. "I have no personal views on the matter Lieutenant Commander. I am not a politician but a holy man. If the Prophets want Bajor to be a part of the Federation, then a part of the Federation we are." He nodded. "It is my understanding that under Bajoran law an individual may decide to end their life in whatever manner they find fitting. This is a fascinating concept. Did Kai Hetel leave such orders concerning her own demise? Or to be more precise was it her order that she be allowed to expire within the temple and was not to be removed?" Horavei smiled slightly as he leaned forward on the desk, "I understand what you're asking, however it is not something I can give. The council has already voted on this motion within the last week. It is clearly written within the scriptures, that unless a clear sign is given to the council by the Prophets themselves the same motion can not be voted upon for another fortnight. The Kai's body stays within the Temple, near the Orbs so that if she were to pass on, she can be taken straight into the arms of our saviours." And what of the others that are confined within? I find the edict against their removal to be of interest." "I'm not a man of logic like yourself Lieutenant Commander, but it would seem unwise to remove any man or woman from the Temple itself. To do so, would be to risk allowing the contagion into new areas of the planet. Better to isolate them in place I would have thought? But I'm no scientist and if you're scientists think it's prudent to do so, then on your head be the deaths of anyone else who falls ill." (Reply Sekal, Ravenstone) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Horavei Taelsi) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Outside Room B – Security – PO3 Hercules Devers - 1740.5) Standing post outside the door where the Commander, the Second Officer and one of the ships Councilors were meeting with the Vedek was tedium. Standing post always is. That’s why his grandfather trained him in some exercises the Diplomatic Security used to keep alert. He kept his eyes moving, especially on the two Bajoran Temple Guards. He didn’t trust anyone but his shipmate Lanis, not with the senior staff in a room he could not see into. Devers tried to listen in, but could only hear muffled voices. The discussion was clearly heated. That was why he never tried to go to Officers Candidate School. That and he didn’t want to do the work. Fighting and trouble were his middle names. The wait continued. (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Outside Room B – Security – PO3 Hercules Devers - 1750) The guard next to Hercules suddenly tensed up. Something was amiss. The two guards turned and pulled out their Bajoran phasers, firing where Devers and Lanis had just been. The Starfleet security team moving out of the way when the guards started moving. Lanis got into a fighting stance, while Hercules grabbed his ASP. With a flick of his wrist, he extended the baton to full length. The guard on Devers turned to face the man, phaser leveled at his chest. Before he could get off a shot, the ASP was moving. There was the sound of bones breaking as Devers aim was true, hitting the guard’s wrist. The man dropped his phaser to the ground. He reached to his belt and pulled out a knife in his off hand. Lanis, meanwhile had landed a few blows and disarmed the second guard. He too had pulled a knife. Devers grinned at the man in front of him. Putting his off hand out, he motioned for the man to come at him. The guard dived low, blade extended. The cling of metal on metal filled the hallway as the blade was deflected. The guard pulled back to reset his attack. Devers pressed his, swinging his ASP low, towards the back of the man’s knee. Lanis let out a grunt as she landed an axekick, breaking her opponents’ nose. Blood flew everywhere as he crumbled, dropping the blade as he hit the ground. The security officer kicked the knife away before rolling him over and secured the man’s wrists. The man moaned as blood continued to pour out his nose. Devers connected with his opponents’ knees, and he watched the guard fall to the ground. “Stay down,” he growled as he stood next to the man, his foot on the man’s hand with the knife. The man let the blade good. “Good lad. Now roll over slowly, and cross your wrists behind your back. The man complied, moaning, “You broke my wrist,” he called out in pain as Devers secured the man’s wrists as well. The guards secured, the security team rolled them over and pushed them to sit against the wall. Lanis pulled out her phaser to cover them. Devers tapped his Comm badge. =^= Lieutenant Carson. Guards got frisky outside. Lanis and I got them secure. Do you require assistance? =^= (Reply Carson) (Posted by Tim B) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - SPC COUNS Alaya Ravenstone - 1742) Alaya took the offered seat, smoothing the diplomatic formal uniform pants as she did so. When the guards outside had checked out Peters and Sekal, they had not bothered to run scanners over the harmless looking Alaya who wore both glittering stiletto pins in her bright blue hair and two knives, one in each of her soft black suede like boots. She took a seat behind Peters and Sekal, making it clear that in this hierarchy, she was clearly the inferior officer, and her body language said so as well. She took a PADD out of her carry bag. On it was loaded the diplomatic treaty with Bajor as well as the medical data. She carried a copy of Federation law on it, and she could easily call up the relevant passages and beam them to Sekal's PADD. Sekal could also get her notes if something was important enough to tell him immediately. Alaya enjoyed working with Sekal and she was continually impressed with his diplomatic skills as this was progressing. She had been happy on Mars, but she was happier on the ship with this crew. Sienna and Sekal were forming a tight partnership, and coming together well. Maybe every vulcan captain needed a betazoid first officer. Alaya turned her attention back to the conversation and frowned. This Dean wanted the Kai to pass on, much as the Minister they were just talking to did. She tapped on her PADD as if taking notes, and a message appeared on the Captain's - He wants the Kai to die. Her note was short and sweet. She kept her mouth shut and watched, taking everything in. (reply Sekal, Horavei Taelsi) (posted by Melinda) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1743) "I'm not a man of logic like yourself Lieutenant Commander, but it would seem unwise to remove any man or woman from the Temple itself. To do so, would be to risk allowing the contagion into new areas of the planet. Better to isolate them in place I would have thought? But I'm no scientist and if you're scientists think it's prudent to do so, then on your head be the deaths of anyone else who falls ill." The small PADD in the hard case worn at Sekal's waist pulsed and he removed it and looked at the screen. [He wants the Kai to die] He said nothing but gave a sharp nod before turning his full attention back to the Dean of Vedeks, leader of the council. Had he been human he might have given the man a look of revulsion or anger but as Vulcan he only held his gaze impassively. Vedek Horavei had already made his intent clear, the fact that Counselor Ravenstone had also noted the same by monitoring his emotional state cemented his own logical conclusion. Sekal nodded slowly. "Illuminar has isolation wards where they might be safely treated with no threat to the crew if this is indeed a contagion. I see however that the possible death of those in the temple are not your concern, only that of the Kai. I am a being of logic as you noted so allow me to give you my logical conclusion." He sat up rigidly in the chair and leaned slightly closer to the Bajoran. "You have used the rallying cry of Prylar Tekan and his followers as a foundation of holding the Kai within the temple which you yourself do not believe since you caution against a contagion while you are willing to allow the others to be removed. You are hiding behind a religious veneer to further your own ends." He crossed his arms, his eyes never wavering. "I took the time to look through Bajoran law after learning of the issue here and the right of decease cannot be passed to another except through a Bajoran court in the event one may not make that decision themselves. The council subverted civil law by issuing the edict and as it is not founded in Bajoran law it has no authority." (Reply: Horavei) "The questions are over since you have already told me what I needed to know. As Commanding Officer of the USS Illuminar and acting Federation representative under the articles of confederation ratified by the Bajoran civil authorities the current government has given me their full support to deal with the current crisis and under Federation law I can hold yourself and your supporters on the council in violation of Federation law and have you arrested for attempted murder. While the Federation recognizes the right of religious authorities to conduct their affairs it does not countenance criminal acts." (Reply: Horavei) "You have two options." Sekal stood to his full height, towering over the Vedek but did not turn to go. "You can rescind the edict to enforce Kai Hetel's imprisonment within the temple immediately or you will be taken into custody and held on the Illuminar to be delivered to Earth on the charge of attempted murder. What is your decision?" The Vulcan's eyes were unreadable as they bored into his. (Reply: Horavei, Alaya, Carson, any) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - 2O, Lieutenant Carson Peters - 1745) Carson had continued to stand as they’d walked into the room. He’d relented his phaser to the guards outside and had calmly explored the room with his eyes as Sekal had talked to the man. He was pretty sure, but not one hundred percent that there was a second door into the quote behind the Vedek which had been covered by elaborate drapes. Switching his focus back to the conversation and watching the Dean Vedek. Sekal nodded slowly. "Illuminar has isolation wards where they might be safely treated with no threat to the crew if this is indeed a contagion. I see however that the possible death of those in the temple are not your concern, only that of the Kai. I am a being of logic as you noted so allow me to give you my logical conclusion." Sekal sat up rigidly in the chair and leaned slightly closer to the Bajoran. Carson watched closely, the Vedek didn’t seem to be perturbed in any way. In fact he leaned a little closer to his desk, Carson caught out of the corner of his eye a slight movement in his hand. "You have used the rallying cry of Prylar Tekan and his followers as a foundation of holding the Kai within the temple which you yourself do not believe since you caution against a contagion while you are willing to allow the others to be removed. You are hiding behind a religious veneer to further your own ends." Vedek Horavei’s eyebrow twitched slightly but otherwise his face remained completely still. "I took the time to look through Bajoran law after learning of the issue here and the right of decease cannot be passed to another except through a Bajoran court in the event one may not make that decision themselves. The council subverted civil law by issuing the edict and as it is not founded in Bajoran law it has no authority." “You are incorrect.” The Vedek began to point out before Sekal cut him off. "The questions are over since you have already told me what I needed to know. As Commanding Officer of the USS Illuminar and acting Federation representative under the articles of confederation ratified by the Bajoran civil authorities the current government has given me their full support to deal with the current crisis and under Federation law I can hold yourself and your supporters on the council in violation of Federation law and have you arrested for attempted murder. While the Federation recognizes the right of religious authorities to conduct their affairs it does not countenance criminal acts." As a seasoned investigator and security official, Carson thought that Sekal was laying a lot out on the table based on a lot of circumstantial evidence and it looked like the Vedek thought the same as he sat back into his chair and relaxed with a smile. "You have two options." Sekal stood to his full height, towering over the Vedek but did not turn to go. "You can rescind the edict to enforce Kai Hetel's imprisonment within the temple immediately or you will be taken into custody and held on the Illuminar to be delivered to Earth on the charge of attempted murder. What is your decision?" The Vulcan's eyes were unreadable as they bored into his. The room stayed still for a moment, quiet and unmoving. The doors opened behind them and Carson heard the two security guards step in behind them. Calculating how he could get to them first if required was interrupted by a report from down below. =^=Lieutenant, we’re starting to see a large crowd of Bajorans gathering outside the Temple. They seem… it looks like they’re protesting our presence here, Sir.=^= The communication was piped into the earpiece he’d linked to his comm. badge. As the Vedek began to speak, he moved slowly towards the window of the room to look out of it. “Logical as you think it is, we are not a race powered by Logic, Captain of the Illuminar. I think you’ll find that the intricacies of what is happening here on Bajor have slipped by you.” He paused as a screen appeared out of the desk and flipped on. Confused for a second, Carson then realised they were watching a live stream of themselves. He briefly looked out the window and saw around a hundred or so gathering outside. “When we moved into the Hotel I asked that all our meeting rooms be wired up and live streamed to the public. The main reason was so that everyone could see us calmly going about our daily rites and rituals. To keep the planet moving forward and calm. However it seems you’ve indirectly made this a Federation trial, throwing your baseless accusations around.” The man paused. “I can neither rescind the order to keep the Kai in the Temple or force a second vote on the matter. If you go back and watch the records of the vote you’ll see that I voted to allow her to be moved. So to accuse me of murder is just disgusting to hear from a Starfleet official.” There was another pause of silence and Carson was now pretty sure there was a second door behind the drapes as he heard it open and close. “I do not think you want to start a bellum sacrum here Mr Starfleet.” And as the Vedek said these words, Temple Guards began marching into the room from behind him all with weapons cocked. “For the record the Council has broken no Bajoran law- we do not subscribe to the politics of the planet and are only concerned with the will of the Prophets and the Prylar preaching outside the Temple has been told to stop, he has no links with myself or my beliefs.” “Do you still wish to arrest me Mr Sekal? and therefore take the Bajoran religion hostage. By arresting me, the head of the Vedek Council, the only link we now have with the Prophets as the Kai is incapacitated you would in effect be telling all of Bajor that the Federation does not respect our practices and beliefs.” The Vedeks use of the Captains name for the first time- even though he’d not been given it, confirmed to Carson that the man had planned for this confrontation and had been ready for it. (Reply: Sekal, Alaya, Carson, any) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets - Prylar Tekan Herla - 1748) The Vulcan's words piped into the plaza had stopped his sermon and he had given them his attention. As he listened anger slowly began to build which was not cooled by the words of Vedek Horavei, no it climbed to new heights. As though led by a force beyond his control from somewhere within his being, a voice whispering beyond his hearing he stepped down from the makeshift podium and began to walk toward the gates to the Temple which had been stopped against him. Within his solar plexus a new energy was radiating outward, one born of faith that pushed the anger higher as the Vulcan began to speak again. =^= It is your intent to use the passions of those under you to facilitate your ends, very well let me state the facts. Kai Hetel Krevi according to the reports I received spurned the political machinations of your ruling body and devoted herself completely to her calling and those of the faith. She spent her time ministering and teaching to the people. Her inattention gave those under her license to allow their ambitions to grow. =^= The Prylar had no problems pushing his way through the crowd, word went before him and they parted of their own accord, bowing their heads to him in deference as he moved past. The new energy which had begun within him as a small light was spreading through his body until his skin seemed to tingle and vibrate under its energy. =^= You yourself Vedek Horavei have taken advantage of her illness and those in the temple in a bid to take power and in attempting to trade the lives of those others while holding the Kai's life under your control have proven your murderous intent. While your edict is unlawful under Bajoran law the civil government has been impotent to act due to the influence of your religion and has not taken a stand against you.=^= Prylar Tekan Herla stepped through the front rank and looked across the barricade, his face was calm. The new energy and the anger had traded places. It felt as though his very skin was giving off waves of energy and his eyes it seemed to him must be glowing but the anger was now a tight knot in the pit of his stomach, suppressed but present. He saw the Bajoran major who's face had grown white at the sight of the leader he feared drop his stun baton and take his phaser in hand as his face went grim. He had a knot of Federation officers around him who had recently arrived. The Prylar took three steps toward the barricade and stopped. =^= However with your intentions made clear I will not allow your edict to stand nor will I countenance this game in which you are contemptuously using your followers as pawns to further your own aims. Lieutenant Peters please notify Vedek Horavei of his rights as he is now under arrest.=^= The sound abruptly died as though cut off at the source. Major Tan Filar's weapon was aimed at him but the Prylar was beyond concern, he turned his back to him and held out his arms as he took in the eager faces who were looking to him for guidance, waiting for the order they knew was coming. Prylar Tekan wondered for an instant if the energy coursing through him were visible, it seemed to him as though he must glow. In a booming voice his words rolled over the throng. "I have been a fool. Go home." The people hung their heads as they turned and began to slowly file out of the plaza, those who had not heard being told by others. He stood there before the barricade, a man transformed, no longer the Prylar he had once been but a man touched by the prophets, a mouthpiece, a voice. A speaker for those he served. (Reply: All) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets - SecO - PO (1st class) Steven Hammons-1750) Hammons was standing with the senior officers who were getting the lowdown on the situation when the CO's voice came out through loudspeakers spaced around the plaza. They must have been designed to blend in well with the accoutrements since they hadn't been readily obvious. Though the Vulcan's voice was calm and concise he appeared to be giving someone the "dressing down" of a lifetime even going so far as to list his credentials and a criminal charge. And then he laid the smackdown on the guy, telling him to rescind the edict or be arrested. Steven grinned, it was pure Sekal all the way and Steven prayed to the dear Lord in heaven he never got on the Vulcan's bad side like this Vedek Hoavei just had. If the CO ever laid charges on him Steven knew there was no way in hell he'd ever squirm free of them. The voice of Horavei was slick, oily and self-assured. He even had a bit of a gloating tone in it. Steven decided then and there he didn't like the guy whoever he was. If he thought the CO was going to let him off scot free he had another think coming. Sure enough after laying down the law Sekal's voice took on a stony note as he rebutted the insolent weasel's comeback. It was during that time that he noted the crowd edging closer with dangerous looks on their faces. ~Oh, oh! We aren't out of the woods yet.~ Then a curious thing happened as the Vulcan continued to lay the smack down, the crowd in front of them began parting like the red sea with the very selfsame Prylar who had been causing trouble walking through their midst like he was walking on water. Hammons turned his head to see Major Tan's reaction, his face had gone white as a sheet and he dropped his stun baton to pull his phaser. Steven whipped his head around. ~Things are about to get ugly.~ He debated pulling his own phaser but in the absence of orders decided against it. He did note an interesting thing about the Prylar though, his face was peaceful, calm and serene. Not the face you would normally consider of a troublemaker. He stepped out from the crowd and then turned after looking at them for a moment beatifically. He expected to be able to hear a pin drop in the plaza it had gone so quiet after the sound cut out on orders for the Vedek's arrest. Steven had his stun baton at chest level just in case they made a rush. Now he understood why Filar was so nervous. If the Prylar ordered them to charge now.... "I have been a fool. Go home." He boomed. His words seemed to deflate the mob. Many hung their heads and began plodding off leaving the Prylar standing with his back to them. All along the line the Bajoran forces relaxed, some taking deep breaths as their tension ebbed. Steven's mouth was open in shock. "What the hell just happened?" He asked no one in particular. (Reply: Any present) (Posted by Charles G) USS Illuminar - Deck 7 - CSCRD Office - ASCRD Ensign Stennin - 1750.5) Stennin took a tricorder in hand and swung his backpack, filled with flasks and hyposprays, over his shoulders. He took a final look at the console and then shut it off. At the opposing end, stood the Bajoran male from the atmospherics lab. Stennin had learned he was CPO Addial Mir. "Chief, are all the teams assembled?" Stennin asked. The Bajoran man nodded. "Affirmative, sir. We are standing by for your orders." the chief answered. Stennin nodded, and stepped out the door to the microbiology labs, where a number of people were waiting. Stennin nodded again, and watched to see if all people were here. "Orders are plain: Medical teams will start with diagnosing. I need at least 6 stretchers to put any patients on. Move any serious patients to sickbay. Report any findings to me and the captain. Science teams will move in two. First team will start the pathological investigation, headed by me. Second team, investigate environmental conditions. Any anomalous readings, report directly to me." The people around him listened attentively, and nodded in agreement. Stennin nodded one last time, and then said: "Medical teams go to Transporter 1. Science teams go to 2 and 3." with that, he moved out and went to the turbolift. He quickly tapped his commbadge. =/\= Ensign Stennin to the Bridge. =/\= (Reply Jaton, Bridge) =/\= The medical and science teams are moving out to the transporter. I will report once we reached the ground. Stennin out. =/\= (Reply Bridge) (USS Illuminar - Deck 4 - Transporter Room 2 - ASCRD Ensign Stennin - 1755) As he concluded, the turbolift stopped. He walked the corridor and then entered the second Transporter room. The chief, a small terran male, nodded softly and then returned to his console. "Six persons at a time." He remarked softly. Stennin nodded, and motioned for the first to step up as he walked to the central focus ring. "You'll need a pattern enhancer per group, sir. The weather is making it harder to keep track of life signs." the chief concluded. Stennin concurred, and two men took some pattern enhancers from the room cabinets. With each group armed with one, Stennin nodded. "Energize." He commanded. (Reply Jaton, Bridge) (Written by Yoerik van Heugten) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - Dean Vedek, Horavei Taelsi - 1751) "It is your intent to use the passions of those under you to facilitate your ends, very well let me state the facts. Kai Hetel Krevi according to the reports I received spurned the political machinations of your ruling body and devoted herself completely to her calling and those of the faith. She spent her time ministering and teaching to the people. Her inattention gave those under her license to allow their ambitions to grow. You yourself Vedek Horavei have taken advantage of her illness and those in the temple in a bid to take power and in attempting to trade the lives of those others while holding the Kai's life under your control have proven your murderous intent. While your edict is unlawful under Bajoran law the civil government has been impotent to act due to the influence of your religion and has not taken a stand against you. However with your intentions made clear I will not allow your edict to stand nor will I countenance this game in which you are contemptuously using your followers as pawns to further your own aims. Lieutenant Peters please notify Vedek Horavei of his rights as he is now under arrest." Horavei watched the Vulcan become more impassioned himself, seemingly making a grand speech before a jury. He privately wondered why the Captain of a Starship which had been on the planet for an hour or so had decided that he, Dean of the Vedek, was the issue at hand and not the thousands of protestors or the fact that their leader was currently incapciated. He watched somewhat dazed as the Lieutenant stepped forward one step, before pulling out a device which he activated- presumably to disrupt the live feed coming from the hotel room and then halt as the ten Temple Guards (Corps of the Prophets) that had entered from behind the Vedek raised their weapons in defence. He also noted that the woman who hadn't spoken much had the characteristics of the Betazoid and understood immediately why she was present alongside her Captain. From that moment forward he kept his thoughts and feelings trained on what he was saying and nothing else. "Sit back down, Captain." Horavei said as he leant forward. The room was still monitored and the video link could be reuploaded after the meeting, so he knew he needed to keep his composure. "I do not intend to be incarcerated by a Starfleet officer which has been on the planet less time than it takes me to eat a good meal. Especially one, eager to prove themselves on their first mission. Equally I would rather not have to use force to do so, as you can see you're extraordinarily outnumbered both inside this room and outside by the Corps of the Prophets. They are over a thousand strong, so it seems unlikely you have the numbers to force a confrontation. Equally as you're aware transport in and out of this area is impossible. So I say again, take a seat." (Reply Sekal, Ravenstone IYW) "I fail to see your reasonings behind wanting to arrest me. You talk as if I am the leader of The Way of the Prophets. If so, you speak from a place of ignorance which doesn't suit your station." he took a breath before continuing, "I am the appointed representative of the Council of Vedeks, the one who brings forth their edicts and converses with the Kai who in turn converses with the Emissary who speaks for our Prophets. The only power I am given, is the power that the Council grants me and my life force granted by the Prophets of course." he paused and made a gesture of thanks in mid-air. "Because of this, I have a close relationship with the Kai. I would no rather see her die than cut my own arm off, my Pah is clean and will stay that way. She has had the closest relationship with the Prophets and Emissary than I can remember seeing from any Kai during my lifetime. Perhaps this is why they have sent this test, if she rises and passes through it- she would rightfully be proclaimed as the greatest holy leader we have had in a millenia. This is my personal belief and reading of the message the Emissary presented to the Kai before her deep slumber. She is fighting a withering tree of corruption in her dreams, much as it seems we are doing in real life. Corruption within the Ministry which has deemed it time to try and bring The Way of the Prophets back under Government control. You know this yourself Sekal, yes? You know of what you were asked to do for the Ministry?" (Reply Sekal, Ravenstone) "Whilst the outspoken Prylar has been somewhat of a nuisance and attempting to subvert the Councils wishes to keep the Kai separate from the general populace, I do not agree with state sanctioned assasination and if you decide to help the corrupt Minister in this matter you would be directly interfering with The Way of the Prophets and our life here on Bajor. Under your order, your men could directly influence and change the lives of millions of Bajorans for the worse. I believe your Starfleet has sanctions and orders to prevent this. I plead with you on behalf of the Prylar and all those that hold the Way of the Prophets so dear that you turn your back on the Minister's request and instead aid us to stand up against this corrupt government." (Reply Sekal, Ravenstone) "Whilst she is incapacitated the Council holds power over the events she would normally see to, not me. I am the voice of the council, so I can see how an off-worlder may make the mistake of judging that it is I that is making the decisions, it is a quick and easy job to review the councils voting record and see that I have pled my fellow Vedeks to allow the Kai to be removed and treated within a Bajoran medical facility. I would be MORE than happy to assist you in petitioning the council to relook at this, however as I've already said our by-laws restrict the council from voting upon the same motion within fourteen days of the original vote. The only thing that can override this is a sign from the Emissary of the Prophets themselves and for that we require the Kai to be awake." "As for the legalities of the matter, the council is separated from the civil law here on Bajor. The Way of the Prophets and the planets governing system are separate and co-exist symbiotically, neither can affect the other and as such we do not fall under Bajoran or in-fact Federation rule, as we have no treaty with you." he paused again, "Not that we've broken any of their laws anyway. I can't say as much for the First Minister and cronies, they flaunt WOTP beliefs and practices in favour of power and control." (Reply Sekal, Ravenstone) "I am an old man Sekal. The way the prophets have shown us is ingrained within our society, I am a religious leader- not a political one. I need to protect my flock and my flock is currently the millions which rely on our wisdom and foresight. Anything your medics & scientists can do to end this ordeal I would implore you to do. But the Kai can not be removed from the Temple, she must see through the challenge she has been presented with. I do not expect you to understand, but I implore you- once again, to empathise and not attempt to force your will upon the Prophets. It would do you no good." (Reply Sekal, Ravenstone) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Horavei Taelsi) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 1751.5) Jaton was putting the finishing touches on the map on the viewscreen, now that telemetry from the probes was coming in strong. It was then his panel chirped with an incoming communique. =/\= Ensign Stennin to the Bridge. =/\= He tapped a couple buttons and answered. "Lieutenant Alyl here, go ahead." =/\= The medical and science teams are moving out to the transporter. I will report once we reached the ground. Stennin out. =/\= "Understood. On my way." Jaton grabbed his equipment back and slung it over his shoulder. "Permission to leave the bridge, commander?" (reply Verin) Jaton nodded. "Mr. Hachem, take over," he said to the science officer to his right. He then headed for the turbolift. "Transporter Room 2." (reply any) (USS Illuminar - Deck 4, Transporter Room 2 - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 1756) Jaton arrived as the first group of the medical and science teams were getting ready to beam down. He knew there wouldn't be room for him in this group, so he waited patiently. It wasn't long before Ensigns Olafsson and Kahn came along, and he nodded to them. As the first group, including Stennin, dematerialised, Jaton stepped forward. "Our turn," he said to his two junior officers. "We'll be sure to keep track of our transport enhancers and maintain communication in case things go south, chief," he said to the transporter chief. The man nodded as Jaton stepped onto the pad. "Energise." (reply Stennin, Verin, any) (posted by Spencer) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Outside Room B – Security – PO3 Hercules Devers - 1755) The two Bajorans moaned with the pain of their injuries. At least the one with the broken nose had stopped bleeding everywhere. From down the corridor, there was a loud ding, and the doors to the lift opened. “Uh, Devers, I think we got company.” Lanis called out. The man with the broken wrist chuckled, “You Federation types are in trouble now. The Vedick got his signal out. We’re taking you and your commander down.” Devers frowned before punching the man in the chin, knocking him out cold. “That’ll shut him up.” The two dropped to one knee, phasers out. “Set to heavy stun,” Lanis called. “Copy that,” Devers replied adjusting his phaser settings. The first phaser blast from down the hall passed over their heads. Blue light from their two phasers shot out, hitting the first two attackers square in the chest. “Crappy tactical situation,” Devers called as four more guards poured out of the elevator. “Remember our orders. We hold this position,” Lanis said. “We hold.” Phaser energy filled the air. The Bajorans were not very well trained, while the Star Fleet duo was. In short order, four more were down. =^= Devers to Carson, it’s a trap. The Vedick got a signal out to his men. We just took six more down. A little help would be in order. =^= (Reply Carson) “Lanis, cover me,” Devers said. “I’m going to go try to short the lift out. Maybe buy us some time.” “Copy that,” Lanis replied. Devers ran down the hall. Dodging around the men laying on the ground. He set his phaser to high power, aimed at the control panel, and fired. Sparks and pops filled the air as the phaser heated up the metal and fused the various circuits together. “That ought a slow them down.” He tried to remember where the stairs were, when he heard a door down the hall from where he was. “More incoming” he called, as he dropped to his knee. Lanis’ phaser shot out stunning the leading attackers. She hit her communicator =^= Illuminar, Lieutenant, could use a bit of help out here. =^= she called as she fired again. (Reply Illuminar, Carson) Devers jumped up, baton in hand, and started towards the remaining men, a feral grin on his face as he brought the baton down across the first man’s shoulder. (Reply Carson, Illuminar, Any) (Posted by Tim B) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - CO- Lieutenant Commander Sekal- 1757) The Vulcan cupped his hands at the small of his back as the Vedek began mounting a shrill defense. Horavei thought his sect outside Bajoran civil law apparently but the Vulcan knew better as he had researched the subject exhaustively. While their were known religious authorities such as the Vatican on Earth which were a law unto themselves with their own police force and civil laws The Path of the Prophets had no such status. The agreement between religious and civil authorities on the planet was one of peaceful coexistence in which both maintained a hands off approach to the other by tradition but it was not spelled out in the planet's civil code. By practice and tradition then he was correct but in matters pertaining to law he was not. Had this been the disconnect that the Vedek did not understand? Had Sekal misread the intent? Both apropos questions. Technically by Federation laws the edict was unenforceable. The Vulcan maintained his silence throughout the diatribe, saying nothing until it ended with an emotional plea which did not faze him in the least. Events however had caught up with them as the sounds of phaser fire in the corridor and Lieutenant Peters conversing with security pointed out. This area of the hotel was under attack. Sekal finally spoke. "Your insults and assertions of misguided zeal and collusion with the government are misplaced however I will take some time to consider the matter further. For now my party and myself will take our leave." He turned on his heel and strode from the room after his second officer. (Reply: Alaya, any) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel ) - Un-assigned Ens. Penny Mc Taggard - 17:58 ) Penny had done it! She graduated from Starfleet academy! Everyone in her family was thrilled. Except her gran. Penny assumed it was because of instead of taking the elderly women’s advice. Going for Science she chose Security and tactical. Mc Taggard had time before being assigned. So Penny decided to visit Bajor. As she shut the door of her hotel room. Thoughts of the last days entered her head. To celebrate her father took them to a restaurant. However her mother ended up in hospital. When in her excitement she swallowed something that was a little too large for her throat and nearly choked to death. Thankfully she was ok after her ordeal. Penny’s gran took her to one side. “ So tell me what are yer plans now? “ She asked “ Well. It will be a while before I get assigned. So I was thinking of going to Bajor “ Penny told her cheerfully. “ So yer plan to go ahead..... I see.” Her gran replied “ I just spent four years training to be. A Starfleet Officer gran. So yes of course I plan to go ahead.” Penny told her. “ Then listen carefully. Yer have a distant cousin also in the Starfleet.” She told her. “ But gran I thought we were the only members of the family? “ Penny said surprised. “ Nay lassie if only that were true. A feud more ancient then yer wee boned exists. All I will say is be wary of the bearded man who bears the name of More.”Her gran warned. “ Gran I can’t not speak to this guy. Especially if he is also a Starfleet Officer.” Penny warned “ I have said all I will say.” Her gran replied. Penny’s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a fight. Looking around she saw some Starfleet officers being attacked. Without thinking Penny rushed to help. Picking up a vase she smashed it over the head of a would be assailant. The officers looked at her suspiciously. “ Ensign Penny Mc Taggard just graduated. Unassigned but willing to help.” She told them. ( Reply Any ) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐼) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Room B - 2O, Lieutenant Carson Peters - 1758) "I am an old man Sekal. The way the prophets have shown us is ingrained within our society, I am a religious leader- not a political one. I need to protect my flock and my flock is currently the millions which rely on our wisdom and foresight. Anything your medics & scientists can do to end this ordeal I would implore you to do. But the Kai can not be removed from the Temple, she must see through the challenge she has been presented with. I do not expect you to understand, but I implore you- once again, to empathise and not attempt to force your will upon the Prophets. It would do you no good." The Vedek finished speaking and before Sekal, Carson or Ravenstone could reply the guards stood outside, burst through into Carson’s ear. =^=Lieutenant Carson. Guards got frisky outside. Lanis and I got them secure. Do you require assistance?=^= “Negative. Stand fast.=^= Carson replied, he saw Sekal glance at him. They were outnumbered, outgunned and outplanned. He counted a total of 12 Temple Guards in the room, all heavily armed and surrounding them. Sekal was going to have to talk their way out of this one, there was no way the Illuminar could provide aid quickly enough. Before anything else could happen, Devers replied. It seemed like they were under attack again. =^=Devers to Carson, it’s a trap. The Vedick got a signal out to his men. We just took six more down. A little help would be in order.=^= “Vedek, if you could ask your men to stop attacking my Security Officers in the hall. Your guards in the room here, seem to have us completely out-numbered and we have met with you completely unarmed.” Carson said, the first words he’d spoken directly to the Religious Leader. The man shot up. Now standing, his face had gone from calm to confused and then utterly concerned. He looked from Carson and then back to Sekal, “I don’t have any men in the corridor, Captain. If you’re being attacked it is not by me.” “Your guards took our weapons before we entered Vedek.” Carson pointed out. “I had no guards standing outside my office.” The man spat back. “What you see here is my personal guard. Attached to me as the highest ranking Vedek. They are the best trained warriors we have within the Temple and are not guards to stand on a door.” Carson looked around the room, he had to admit they did look a cut above what he’d seen down at the Hotel entrance. “Then who…?” His question trailed off as the comm chatter started up again. =^=Illuminar, Lieutenant, could use a bit of help out here.=^= Tapping his comm. badge, “Incoming Devers. Illuminar, lock the ship down, you may have incoming.” He span on the spot, “Captain, Counsellor, Vedek. Please excuse me. You two,” he pointed to the two men who had been standing behind them for the last 5 minutes. “If this isn’t an attack by you, it’d an attack on you or us. Either way to protect the Vedek, you’ll come with me to neutralise the threat.” The two men looked from Carson to the Vedek who had sat back down behind his desk and several of his personal guards were now beginning to encircle him. “Do what he says.” He said in somewhat of a panic. The two guards snapped to attention and allowed Carson through, “Weapon?” He said as he held his hand out. The guard on the right, pulled a Bajoran phaser from his belt and handed it to him. Carson took a step towards the closed door and motioned for the two of them to flank it. He nodded to the guard in the right and he tapped a code in to force the door open. The scene which unfurled in front of him was a mess. The two security officers they’d left outside were busy taking defensive positions and tactically taking out assailants who were wearing Temple robes but not the same as the Vedeks personal guard. The lift seemed to have been taken out of commission and Devers had created a choke hold at the staircase. “Situation Report” Carson yelled as he stepped out into the hallway. Just as he did a woman smashed a vase over one of the assailants heads, who were appearing around a second corner. He looked at her incredulously at the civilian about to tell her to retreat before she said, “Ensign Penny Mc Taggard just graduated. Unassigned but willing to help.” Carson nodded. “With me, Ensign.” The lift doors opened and another 6 men moved out of it with weapons lifted. Before Carson could make a move, streaks of light fizzed passed him as the Vedeks personal guard vapourized the 6 men with a few well placed shots. About to turn around them and ask them to change their weapon setting to stun, he noticed they’d already laid into all the targets which his men had previously restrained. “We need to move,” he called back to Sekal, Ravenstone, the Vedek and his guards. (Reply Devers, McTaggard, Sekal, Ravenstone) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 18.00) She walked around Sickbay preparing the area for medical emergencies which she hoped were the garden variety kind. She sat on one of the bio beds and ran through the procedures she had some familiarity with. She imagined herself tending to a patient like some old time Teran TV Doctor. Possibly one from a popular show like ER or The Good Doctor. She pictured herself as the red head from ER or the Blonde from The Good Doctor but much nicer than her and not have her super stuck up attitude. She reviewed the instruments then took a seat at one of the medical computers. She was ready as she could be for the first patient. She tapped her COMM Badge ^= Trei to Solice I am ready for patients Trei out. ^= (Reply Quinna) (Posted by Edward) (USS Illuminar - Deck 14 - Chief of Security office - Acting Chief of Security- Ensign (sg) Svend Saarsgard - 1800.5) He fretted, he fumed and he paced. He had finally been released from sickbay after his bout with that thrice damned, rare and potentially lethal viral infection but hadn't been cleared for duty yet. He felt like a failure, his men and women were out giving their all and he was stuck here on the ship. He couldn't even man a checkpoint outside the ship for the love of god! Reports had been coming in over the security channel. The showdown at the plaza had been defused. "That's some good news at least!" But the guard detail for the CO had come under fire at the hotel and were withdrawing. "**** it!" He slammed his fist down on the table and hit a comm button. "Ensign Hammerfield take half your detail to the hotel and back up the CO's party. Help them get clear. Fight your way in and out if you have to but get them out of there!" (Reply: Hammerfield, room for more) One more. "Devers support is on the way, I repeat support is on the way." (Reply: Devers) After issuing the orders he hit the comm again and his voice when he spoke was only a few decibels short of a roar. "Sickbay when is my damn clearance for duty going to come through? My butt is needed on the planet not planted in a chair!" (Reply: Trei) "About damn time!" He whirled and snatched his sidearm off an adjoining cabinet and buckled it to his belt then hit the comm a fourth time. "Lieutenant Verin I've just been given medical clearance for return to duty. I'm headed out." (Reply: Verin) He stopped in the armory just long enough to grab a phaser rifle and took off down the corridor toward the turbolift like a bat out of hell. (USS Illuminar - Deck 4 - Transporter Room 1 - Acting Chief of Security- Ensign (sg) Svend Saarsgard - 1804) He stomped through the door. "Drop me in outside the hotel front entrance so I can link up with my relief team. Hotel High Hallack and do it yesterday!" The transporter chief just nodded and got to work as Svend took one of the pads and verified the weapon setting for the second time. He had already checked the charge and setting when he had grabbed it in the armory. "Ready here." "Then go damn...." The rest of what he had to say was cut off as he was whisked away. (Reply:Hammerfield, Devers, Trei, Verin, any) (Posted by Charles G) (USS Illuminair -- Cargo Bay to Transporter -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 1801) Quinna took the PADD with the equipment checklist once again. Computers microscope, a medical replicator, protective gear, and so much more. She waited for Dalton, but in the end, Quinna knew that it would be here. She just hoped the Captain received the permissions needed to set up in the temple. Quinna planned to sleep in the clean room to be close to those she was trying to heal. It was important that she had a cot and a few pillows in case she needed to sleep. The setup team came into the cargo bay wearing red biohazard suits. They were going to set up Quinna’s area to work. She applied her signature to their order and moved out of the way. She stepped out of the cargo bay and headed to the transporter room. She thought that since she had some time, she would walk around the area surrounding the temple. As she was quietly waiting to exit the ship, Quinna jumped as her communicator went off. The sound cut through the silence like a warm knife going through butter. ^= Trei to Solice I am ready for patients Trei out. ^= =^=Thank you. Good Luck.=^= Quinna was pleased that Trei was prepared. She knew she was leaving Sickbay in good hands. Quinna stepped on the Transport and found herself outside the Temple Hotel. (Bajor -- Outside Temple Hotel -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 1834) Quinna slowly shopped the street venders as she made her way to the temple. Various items were made especially for the tourist. Some of the vendors refused to acknowledge Quinna as they were not wanting to deal with starfleet. Quinna was able to get a Jumja Stick. Quinna remembered loving them, but had forgotten how sweet they were. She worked hard on finishing it but was too much. But that never stopped her and she ate until she was about to bust. After 30 minutes, the set up team had the clean room together and ready for Quinna to set up. With a site to site transport, Quinna materialized in the Temple in a room close to the Kai’s room. (Reply any) (Played by Kris) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets - Prylar Tekan Herla - 1801.5) He had stood rooted to the spot since his pronouncement watching most of the people leaving the area. There were a number of objects left on the tiled pavement and scattered randomly. Metal bars, heavy sticks and the like once meant to be used as weapons. A sadness came to his eyes as he looked at each and every one. ,~I caused this.~ ::Out of ignorance.:: Came the whisper in his mind. ~ But I have taken the fist steps to rectifying it.~ ::There is more yet to do but this is a beginning.:: He nodded and turned once more to those beyond the barricade. Some of the Federation officers were scurrying over it in a hurry. He glided to the first one over, a female officer from the looks of it. He stepped before her, stopping her abruptly. "Some of your own are in danger, I will not keep you long. Remember this. If the roots of the tree fail then the leaves die. This is the way of all life." (Reply: Hammerfield) He turned from her and walked back into the plaza, taking a weaving path while stooping to pick up the weapons that had been dropped there. He would pile them beside the crates once used as a podium them have someone haul all of the debris away. ~It is a start.~ ::Yes a start but there is more yet to do.:: Yes he would know what to do when the time came. For now he would continue his penance and ready himself for the ordeal ahead. ::When evil rises that which is pure rises against it::: ~I will be ready.~ (Reply: Hammerfield) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel ) - Un-assigned Ens. Penny Mc Taggard - 18:00.75) Penny had half expected to be either told to go away or reprimanded. Technically she was still a civilian she wasn’t even assigned to anything yet. True she was wearing the regulation jumpsuit that cadets wore before they were assigned to ships. So it did identify her as a Starfleet officer. Plus it had those yellow lines. To identify her as a potential security officer. “With me, Ensign,” the Lieutenant said. Lanis reached around and grabbed her mark 1 phaser. “Ensign, catch,” she said tossing the phaser to the woman. “You might need that.” “ Thank you ma’am.” Penny said almost dropping it. “We need to move,” Carson called out. Penny followed them. ~ “ Remember your training Penny Mc Taggard don’t get turned into a kebab by a Phaser beam on your first day as the real thing. “ ~ Penny told herself. She glanced down at one of the fallen attackers. They were dressed as a Vedek? Why were they being attacked by holy people? “ Can you bring me up to speed ma’am? “ Penney asked. ( Reply Lanis ) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐨) (Bajor - Ashalla, Plaza of the Prophets – Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1802) The man stepped in front of Janice who just commanded everyone to head home, "Some of your own are in danger, I will not keep you long. Remember this. If the roots of the tree fail then the leaves die. This is the way of all life." She looked at him puzzled slightly not really having time to digest his religious mumblings for anything other thank a statement that could be profound but offered no real insight, “What – hey?” Eyeing him carefully as he lifted a weapon she readied to draw her weapon but then relaxed as he started to sit them beside the podium. =^= Ensign Hammerfield take half your detail to the hotel and back up the CO's party. Help them get clear. Fight your way in and out if you have to but get them out of there! =^= She looked at the man still placing weapons down. ~Did he know?~ “Right away. We will be there as soon as we can. Any information on threats in the area?” (Reply: Svend) “Affirmative, Hammerfield out,” she looked to everyone around her, “I want two people here to watch over this area until the weapons are cleaned up. Everyone else head with me,” she pulled her phaser out of her holster and checked its setting quickly, “The is a firefight at the hotel, expect a warm reception.” (reply any coming back to the hotel) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), Basement, Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1808) They had quickly taken the tunnels back through to the hotel. It seemed like the best option to her as it avoided moving through the crowds of people who had just dispersed moments earlier. The tunnels might surprise those inside as well. “Hammerfield to Svend, we are in position at the hotel basement,” she said tapping her comm badge. (Reply: Svend) “We can head for the second floor from here. It might be better if you could breach from the outside and start to sweep the floors after we hit them from behind?” (Reply: Svend) “Affirmative – stand by,” Pulling everyone together quickly she opened the basement door from the tunnels, “Everyone stack up,” she whispered, “Hostiles are in the hotel, we are going to push and clear up to the second floor. Sweeping phaser fire left to right don’t give anyone a chance to take a shot back. Heavy stun put everyone out for the count we can sort who actually did what later.” (reply any coming back to the hotel) She tapped her comm badge “Hammerfield to Devers or Carson. We are in position at the hotel basement. We are going to make a push for you.” (reply Carson / Denvers) Janice opened a pouch on her leg pulling out a stun grenade as everyone stack up against the basement stairs and opened a channel to Svend outside, “Ready - three... two... one...” The door slid open to the main reception area as soft sound of metal running over the marble floor echoed slightly before a loud bang and flash of light engulfed the room. Quickly she pushed the door open it bouncing so hard against the frame it almost ricocheted back against her, “Everyone Down! GET DOWN!” Blasts of phasers lined the room as they made their way towards the stairs. Surprise seemed total for them as the had setup to cover the main entrance. Bursts of fire started to hit the wall above her on the first floor trying to hold them back. She pulled another grenade out and lobbed it up the stairs waiting for it to pop as her team advanced further up. (reply any / Room for more,) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd Floor, Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1830) The corridors were tight to move through and offered very little in the way of protection moving through them, Similarly it did make suppression fire from them much easier as there were only one or two avenues of attack. Slowly the started to push forward as whomever was firing back at them began to fall back room by room. Eventually they pulled up to a room where everyone was hold up. “You can open up now!” she shouted at the door as she pulled her phaser rifle off her back looking down the corridor to provide some covering fire. (Any trapped on the second floor) (Posted by Adam P) (Bajor - Ashalla, Temple Living Quarters - ACSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl - 1807) Jaton materialised in the middle of the temple's living quarters, but what he found looked more like a hospital ward. He shook his head, saddened at all the suffering around him. But he and his team had a job to do. He swung his equipment bag off his shoulder and put it on the ground. He opened it and began to take the contents out, setting up a makeshift science station from which he and his team would work from. He turned to Stennin as he continued to unpack. "Stennin, you start your scans in the east wing. Take Olafsson with you. When I'm finished here, I'll start in the west with Ensign Khan. Be sure that you're patched into the Illuminar systems so that we can map what we find in the Illuminar databanks as well as here in the mobile station." (reply Stennin, any) (posted by Spencer) (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- NPC Barber Civilian Chet Coiffeur -- 1825) Chet Coiffeur walked into sickbay with one of his white towels wrapped around his hand. “Blyme, I cannot believe I did it again.” He said to himself. Chet was an older man that acted about 30 years younger. He seemed to stand 5 foot 7 inches and had a very stout beer gut that was covered with a black half apron. The pockets bulged with instruments of his trade. “Doc Quinn, yo Doc Quinn, where are you? I done cut myself again” You could hear the unformal education in the man’s annunciations. (Reply Trei) “Well, you are not Doc Quinn, but your looks are ok with me.” Chet comment. (Reply Trei) “I cut my hand while cleaning my scissors. Oh how rude of me, Sweetums. I am Chet Coiffeur. Chet meaning Fortress and Coiffeur meaning barber. Together that is the fortress barber. So I guess I am my name. I am the barber onboard.” He then took Trei’s hand and gave it a kiss. (Reply Trei) “Can you fix my hand, Sweetums?” (Reply Trei) (Played by Kris) (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Corridor – Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 1802) The door opened behind Lanis, and out came Lieutenant Carson and two guards. ~Didn’t they just warn the man that the guards were attacking?~ “Situation Report” the Lieutenant called. Lanis replied, “We have incoming forces, armed with phasers. One bank of turblifts has been disabled. Devers is trying to secure the stairs at the far end, Sir. We’ve got two over there for questioning.” Devers, meanwhile, was dealing with the men coming through the door. Everyone was too close for phasers, so fists and feet were the name of the game. Devers swung his ASP connecting on the leg of another man, with a satisfying crack of the bone, the man went down in pain. As Dever’s moved away, Lanis stunned the wounded man. Another guard rushed at Devers, who pivoted as the man came at him. With a quick spin and lift of his hip, the man went flying down the hall, another target for Lanis to finish off. Holding the ASP horizontally, Devers rushed the two remaining men, pushing them back through the doorway, but not before seeing more men coming up the stairs. With a final push, he sent the two men flying back, down the stairs. He backed up and turned his phaser on the door, trying to fuse the two halves before the attackers got there. Suddenly, there was a crash, and another attacker went down. A woman stood here, the remains of a vase in her hand. “Ensign Penny Mc Taggard just graduated. Unassigned but willing to help.” “With me, Ensign,” the Lieutenant said. Lanis reached around and grabbed her mark 1 phaser. “Ensign, catch,” she said tossing the phaser to the woman. “You might need that.” (Reply Penny) “We need to move,” Carson called out. (Bajor - Ashalla, Hotel High Hallack (Temple Hotel), 2nd floor, Corridor – Security PO3 Hercules Devers - 1805) Down the hall, Devers was finishing his crude handiwork. “That should hold ‘em.” The groan of the machinery trying to open the doors was loud enough, “Hope it don’t overheat,” he said, running back to Lanis. (Reply Mc Taggart, Carson, others) (Posted by Tim B) (Ashalla, Bajor - Temple Living Quarters - ACSRD Ensign Stennin - 1810) Stennin blinked a few times as the hue of the transporter dissipated. He took a look around as he noticed he was in a large room, possibly a bunkhouse. However, the people on the beds were not resting. They were in pain. Stennin looked around as the other teams materialized as well, and walked to the medical team. "I need diagnoses for these people. Sent them up to Lieutenant Williams-Verin for verification. Start with analgesics first. No symptom treatment until we have examined the pathogenic source." He commanded. The nurses confirmed his orders and quickly took out their tricorders. He turned to the science teams, who were unpacking and setting up stations. He noticed Jaton at one of them. He nodded when the Trill turned to him. "Stennin, you start your scans in the east wing. Take Olafsson with you. When I'm finished here, I'll start in the west with Ensign Khan. Be sure that you're patched into the Illuminar systems so that we can map what we find in the Illuminar data banks as well as here in the mobile station." Jaton commanded. Stennin nodded fervently and walked over to one of the commpacks. He tapped a few commands and the interface showed the Illuminar. He waited for a moment, and then said: "Connection is established. Our tricorder will be directly related to the lab personnel." (Reply Jaton) "I have one team looking at the magnetic readings here. The probes showed errors in this sector, I have to confirm them." Stennin said. He took a tricorder from the desk, and then nodded at Jaton. He motioned for Crewman Olafsson, a young terran, to follow him. "I will keep an open commlink." He remarked to Jaton. (Reply Jaton, if wanted) Stennin nodded, and then activated the tricorder. He walked towards the east wing. (Ashalla, Bajor - Temple West Wing Corridor - Level 2 - ACSRD Ensign Stennin - 1815) Stennin tapped his tricorder a few times. He brought up the environmental settings, and quickly focused on the biology readings. He looked around a few times, and held out his tricorder and different points. But after a few minutes, he shook his head. There was no pathological source to be found. At least not a biological one. Stennin turned to Olafsson, who was inspecting the magnetic readings. Stennin walked to him. "No apparent sign of viral, bacterial, or parasitic agents." he remarked. The crewman looked up, and nodded. "The magnetic readings seem fine." he said. Stennin frowned, and took a look at the tricorder readings. He murmured, but nodded in agreement. "The source of the malady is not in this sector. We must await the results of Jaton and Khan." He concluded. He took a final look at the tricorder, but shook his head. =/\= Ensign Stennin to Lieutenant Jaton. Our scanners indicated no anomalies in our wing. Have you discovered anything? =/\= (Reply Jaton) (Written by Yoerik van Heugten) (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 18.27) A man came into Sickbay looking for Quinna. He had a British accent. He stated that he cut himself cleaning his scissors. She checked her PADD and found him on the ship roster as the ship's Barber. He came over to her and kissed her hand. She really wasn't used to that but kindly accepted the gesture . She found him to be a charming man. The cut didn't look too serious. She can fix that pretty easily with the tissue re generator. She motioned for Chet to sit on an open bio bed and hold his hand up for her to treat it. ""I am going to heal your hand with this phase re generator. Hold your hand up so I can see the cut clearly." She brought the phase re generator over and applied it to the cut. The cut ended up being not that serious but she was careful to heal it properly . She thought a woman would be better to style her hair when she needed that done but asked him just the same. "Do you cut women's hair and know how to style it?" (Reply Chet) (Posted by Edward) (USS Illuminar -- Sickbay -- Deck 5 -- NPC Barber Civilian Chet Coiffeur -- 1835) "Do you cut women's hair and know how to style it?" Chet smiled, “Sweetums, I do anyone’s hair. I like to think of myself as an Artist. You have to be open to my vision. Now Doc Solice… I see her as a chocolate brown brunette, but she will not let me touch her hair. You, though, you are different. I see something fiery with you but something fluidic. Yes, I can see it. Deep fire red color with waves that mimic the stormy tides of Risa.” (Reply Trei) “If you like to come in and I can do your hair.” Chet offered, “I will always have an open seat for my favorite doctor.” Chet once again took Trei’s hand and kissed it. (Reply Trei) (Played by Kris) (Bajor -- Kai's quarters- Doctor Niva Shay -- 1835) He was only delaying the inevitable he knew as he continued to tweak the intravenous fluids the woman was being given. The stimulants had done little more than slow the progression of whatever was happening to her. The medical scanner above her bed that was monitoring her vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure and neural connection were continuing to wane. Pain was flat lined so at least she wasn't suffering. At some point though her heart would halt in its depressed rhythm and there would be no restarting it. He knew this and it made him angry just as he knew the other doctors seeing to other patients were similarly enraged and frustrated. The idea had been considered of putting her on full life support not if but when she failed and had been struck down by someone in the Vedek Council but he didn't care, he was going to do it anyway. There was time yet before he would have to take that step, perhaps a couple of days. He would have to leave soon anyway. His half hour allotted for the day was almost up. He turned in reflex to the door as it opened. "Yes?" One of the nurses was standing in the portal. "Doctor Niva a Federation doctor has just arrived and is asking to see you. She is just down the hall, room on the left." "Finally!" He expostulated through gritted teeth. "I'm on my way. Take over watching her until my relief arrives." His eyes flitted about the readouts quickly before he slid past her and out the door. (Bajor -- Temple quarters- Doctor Niva Shay -- 1837) The door was open and he stepped quickly through to see Federation personnel busily and efficiently setting up a clean room. He looked about and spotted a woman obviously in authority who was directing them. "Doctor..." He called and walked toward her. "I am so glad to see off world help here. I've spent as much time fighting against mysticism and superstition as I have in trying to keep Kai Hetel stable. It's good to see a non-biased face here. I'm Doctor Niva but you can call me Shay." He gave a relieved smile as he extended his hand. (Reply: Solice) "I'll do anything I can to help of course and I have the latest readings with me. If you have any questions feel free to ask them." (Reply: Solice) (Posted by Charles G) (USS Illuminar - Sickbay - ACOUNS ACMO ENS SG Ariel Trei - 18.36) Her question was answered by the barber. She liked the style her had in mind for Quinna. She thought it would look very pretty on her. The style visioned for her sounded intriguing and fun. She might take him up on that. He kissed her hand again which she was not used to. She blushed at the gesture and tried to keep her professional composure. She has never been to Risa but has heard many stories of a wonderful planet. She would love to visit Risa sometime and see these rising waves of fire but she would probably enjoy the beach more. She answered his offer. "Thank you for the offer. I may take you up on the styling idea when I am ready for my next haircut. The idea sounds intriguing and fun. Be careful with the scissors and I may come see you in 2 weeks." (Reply Chet iyw) (Posted by Edward) (Bajor -- Temple -- CMO Lt. J.G. Quinna Solice -- 1840) Quinna was in the clean medical lab. She knew science was also supposed to set up but she did not see them. Quinna started to make a list of what she needed. She also wanted to see the Kai for herself. The door was open and he stepped quickly through to see Federation personnel busily and efficiently setting up a clean room. He looked about and spotted a woman obviously in authority who was directing them. "Doctor..." He called and walked toward her. "I am so glad to see off world help here. I've spent as much time fighting against mysticism and superstition as I have in trying to keep Kai Hotel stable. It's good to see a non-biased face here. I'm Doctor Niva but you can call me Shay." He gave a relieved smile as he extended his hand. Quinna was surprised to see the Doctor. She had been in deep compilation about the current situation. “Hello Doctor… I mean Shay. I am Doctor Quinna Solice. Please call me Quinna.” Quinna extended the greeting and took Shay’s hand. "I'll do anything I can to help of course and I have the latest readings with me. If you have any questions feel free to ask them." “Well, perhaps we should have a seat, I have plenty of questions.” Quinna said as she pointed to a small table with chairs. (Reply Niva) “Can you tell me the events the Kai had attended up to a month before this all started?” Quinna asked. (Reply Niva) “How many more are sick?” Quinna Asked. She thought to slow on the questions. (Reply Niva) (Played my Kris) (Bajor -- Temple -- Bajoran Doctor Niva Shay -- 1842) “Well, perhaps we should have a seat, I have plenty of questions.” Shay's eyes followed her hand and he walked to the table and sank into a chair with a satisfied sigh. "I've been managing my time here rigidly but it's still tiring." He placed the PADD he was carrying at the center of the table so that she could pick it up. “Can you tell me the events the Kai had attended up to a month before this all started?” He shook his head. "The Kai is well known for being out and about attending various events during the year but for over two months she had largely confined herself to the Temple. There were two council meetings she attended during that time about something that was happening here but otherwise she stayed away from the public which is in itself unusual." Shay pulled a kerchief from a pocket and wiped a slight sheen of perspiration from his brow. “How many more are sick?” The Federation doctor inquired. Shay knew he was overstaying his visitation time but at the moment this was more important. With the StarFleet doctor here to run things he could cut his round short tomorrow. "A total of eight six in varying stages of distress. Five Vedeks and the three temple physicians are the most severely affected besides Kai Hetel who is the worst of all. The other seventy seven are bed ridden due to weakness but still conscious. Kai Hetel herself is not expected to survive if some miraculous cure isn't found in the next couple of days." The word used caused him to look about the chamber unconsciously. Miracles after all often sprouted from such holy places. (Reply: Solice) He shook his head. "Every test for bacteria and viruses has been negative. I myself have run numerous blood panels without success because there is nothing to find there to prove there is an active contagion. I've checked the spinal fluid, neural tissue, vascular. Everything. There is nothing there." He threw up his hands in disgust then lowered them to the table. "You name it, I've checked it." He lowered his head. "There is no tissue or DNA breakdown due to radiation, it isn't what they've been eating, drinking or breathing and I can't move them out of this damnable edifice for more intensive scrutiny." (Reply: Quinna) (Posted by Charles G) (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District - ACEO, Ens(sg) T’ay’ia sh’Mila’aa (Taya) - 2045) Dark had begun to descend upon the city a few hours ago. She and her team could still see unaided, but that wouldn’t last long. If she couldn’t discover what was ailing the district's power issues, it would be a very dark night. Breathing heavily she planted the heavy bag she had on her shoulders on the ground for a moment. Her old Mars Tactical assistant caught up and stood at her shoulder for a second before speaking, “If we don’t find this soon, we’ll have to return to the ship.” He said it matter-of-factly and she knew he didn’t mean it to hurt her feelings, but it did. A sound made them all whip their bodies around to face the direction they’d been travelling from. A small child stood about 30 meters back from them. The small boy was wearing brown shorts, a red top and a cap. He smiled and waved to them before darting off into a building to his left. She stood there for a moment with a smile creeping onto her face, her hand automatically went to feel her stomach. She turned back around and began to think, was she good enough to solve this issue? Objectively she knew that the Bajoran Engineers had been working on this problem for longer and hadn’t figured it out. Why did she expect herself to be able to do it all alone? “I know.” She whispered in return. Turning to see the rest of the small Away Team that had accompanied her around the city for the last few hours. Chief Petty Officer Paul Kirby and a second Security Officer that she hadn’t learnt his name. As well as that there was Chief Petty Officer Kathy Miller from Medical. Paul and Kathy had been an item for a while, so she suspected Paul had pulled some strings to make sure she was a part of the Away Team he was on. Kathy didn’t look too pleased to be on this particular mission however. A flash of light appeared in the sky in the distance, “What’s that?” The medical officer asked curiously. Taya looked at it, “They’ve decided I’ve failed.” She said miserably. Carson had given up on the power coming back before the dying light failed. He told her that the backup plan was to fit floodlights around the Plaza of the Prophets, using portable power generators from the ship. “They’ve activated the portable floodlights.” “Ah.” Paul said, “Should we head back now then?” He saw Taya’s face and then continued, “You can get a fresh start tomorrow morning. Or utilise the ship's sensors tonight…?” “One more stop,” Taya said as she picked up her pack again. Opening up the scanner she had with her, she plugged the requirements and redoubled her efforts to the next anomaly. (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District, Side Street - ACEO, Ens(sg) T’ay’ia sh’Mila’aa (Taya) - 2130) =^=Chief Taya, We’re seeing an influx of power at section 24f=^= She sighed and tapped her badge, “Already investigated. Conduits are working at operative levels. The blockage is further down the line.” The response was short as she was irritated and frustrated. It was cold. It had rained on and off. Her team was short of morale and if she was honest to herself she had no idea where to look. Every scan sent them in a different direction. Each location they investigated was absolutely fine with no major issues. It felt more like a scavenger hunt than anything else. =^=Copy, we’ll strike that section off.=^= came the response from the ship. “We’re checking out section 4a.” Taya said as they rounded the corner and saw that they were at the bottom of a dimly lit alleyway. The alleyway was approximately 3-400 meters in length and there was a significant amount of light pouring in through the opposite end. “Looks like we’re back near the Temple.” Observed Paul from behind her. Ignoring him she began walking down the path, looking for the electrical conduits she required. Nothing. This wasn’t the first time the boxes had been hidden. Pulling up the specifications of the street as she moved further into the dark. =^=Dow...d. ...port… b. Lieu..=^= The communication came through garbled, with an increasing amount of static. She tapped the comm. badge, “What? Repeat message.” Turning around and noticing she’d strayed further from the group, she jogged back to them. “What was the message from the Illuminar?” She asked the group, but looked at Paul Kirby. “Lieutenant Peters wants us to return to the ship. He’s not comfortable with small groups since we’ve got no power in the streets.” She sighed, “Pansy.” Pulled her comm. badge off and checking the back of it. “Looks fine.” She muttered to herself. Putting it back on her uniform, “Come on. We may as well tick this one off whilst we’re here and then head back.” “5 minutes Chief. Any longer I reckon Peters will have us plucked out of here using the Transporters.” Kirby said. Taya nodded in agreement and they all walked back through the alleyway, looking for the electrical conduit box. =^=Lie… ort.. n.=^= The message once again came through fully scrambled. Taya looked from Kirby to Miller. It was scrambled on all their communicators this time. “There’s a scrambler somewhere.” Taya said aloud. Darting her head back and forth looking for active equipment. “Why would there..?” Kirby started as he began pulling his weapon out and started to use hand signals to communicate with his colleague. The Security Officer began moving stealthily but quickly back down the alleyway to where the communications had worked previously. “Down there.” Taya said definitively. It was the only place that made sense to her. “Really?” Miller asked incredulously. “You stay up here, Paul you’re with me. Let’s get this open.” Suddenly she was awake, this had to be it. Why would there be a scrambler here, in the middle of nowhere. Though the presence of the scrambler was disconcerting- it likely meant this was sabotage not a mechanical failure, it wouldn’t stop her from resolving the problem. They had the metallic sewer cover off within moments and Kirby had taken point and slid down underground. By the time she climbed down the ladder, he had a torch lit and his weapon drawn, his eyes darting back and forth. Breathing slowly, she couldn’t get over the fact that her initial reaction was to also pull a weapon out. Something didn’t feel right. No, she was an Engineer now, so instead pulling the tri-corner out and began looking for the problems. “Look’s clear.” Kirby whispered. She nodded and moved forward with him at her shoulder. “No water.” She pointed out. He nodded. They didn’t need to vocalise what they both realised. This wasn’t a sewer. They’d stumbled across part of the underground network of tunnels that the Security Teams had used earlier in the day to get themselves setup in the Temple. “Here.” Taya stopped. In front of them on the wall was a small device beeping and whirring. It was far newer than anything else around them and was clearly the root of the problems they were having. “Careful.” She heard in her left ear as they moved towards the device. She just nodded, entirely transfixed on what the device could be. Now up close with it, she could see that it was a circular metallic instrument. It was plugged directly over some major electrical cabling and had a large section in the middle of it which looked like it could plug into a separate device. “What is it?” Kirby asked. “I can’t be sure. It looks like it could be part of an energy siphoning device. I don’t think it’s complete.” Her hand moved automatically to touch it and see if she could feel any extra components her eye’s couldn’t see. Immediately she realised that had been a mistake. Paul realised it just a second faster. He shoved her to the left and jumped after her. A WHOOSH happened as the device discharged the energy it had been storing and the world around her went black as she felt a pain shoot through from her head, down her spine. Silence. The pattering of footsteps, of scraping and heaving. She was flying. Was this death? No, it hurt too much to be death. (Reply none needed, any) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Taya/Kirby/Miller) (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District - Janus - 2140) It had almost been a full day since placing the device. Patience had never been a strong suit before joining the seminary. It was a learnt technique, the ability to still the mind and learn to hear the prophets. Listen to their guidance and act upon it. Of course Janus had never spoken directly with them. Their guidance always came via The Master. He sat in the dark, legs crossed uncomfortably and patiently waited for his quarry. They needed their sacrificial lamb and The Master would not condone the loss of the Bajoran lives. The interlopers, the star walkers would be here soon. Unable to keep themselves from interfering with the prophets plans. They would be the ones to help Janus and his Master to initiate the chaos that was needed to right the world and uncover the evil plans that were afoot. A beam of light, faint as it was, entered his reality. The prophets showing his lambs to their end. Two multi-coloured fully uniformed officers appeared in the tunnel. Janus watched them eagerly from the shadows, he daren’t move. It took them a few moments to discover his holy siphon. The device delivered to him via his master from the prophets, would deliver their wrath upon those who touched it. He looked forward to seeing it, it would be to see the face of a Prophet directly. Moments more passed, before the officers made a sudden move away from the device. Too late. A surge of light arced from the middle of the metallic device and struck the man square in back and shone through him as he knocked the blue one to the ground. There was no sound as the man’s life force was transferred to the holy prophets who had smote him. Moving quickly, Janus leapt forward, his focus solely on the blue woman lying on the ground with blood trickling from her forehead. He groaned as his legs, not used to the strain creaked as he lifted her after disposing of the comm badge, bag and sensors. Now with the officer on his back he began jogging back into the dark. Lamb now on his back and almost ready for the most important morning in Bajoran history. The morning which would change the direction of all their lives. (Reply none, any) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Janus) (Bajor, Ashalla - Temple District - Medical Officer, CPO Kathy Miller - 2145) Kathy stood leaning against the wall, waiting. She had began to resent that Paul had requested her specifically for this outing about an hour into it. It had now been over four hours to traipsing around the city block with a grumpy engineer and a mute security officer. She should have been helping back on the ship or in the Temple. There were legitimately unhealthy people to be looking after and because she couldn’t say no to him, she was stuck here in the dark and the cold. Taya and Paul had been down in the underground for around 5 minutes. 5 minutes was all Paul had given the chief Engineer, so she’d hoped they’d be on their way back soon. Another 5 minutes passed and she noticed that Alec- the other Security Officer had now returned and he wasn’t alone. The ship had sent another three security officers after he’d reported in. “Where are they?” He asked. She nodded to the hole in the ground. “Of course. Down we go. Stay here.” He said as three of them climbed down and the fourth stayed guard with Kathy. Another moment passed and just as she was about to ask the man whether he thought they’d be staying for much longer she heard the sound that would haunt her for the rest of her days. “MEDIIIIIIIIIIIIIC.” Came the scream from the hole. Without a second thought, she dived onto the ladder and scrambled down it as quickly as she could. “Where?” She asked anxiously as she made it to the bottom of the ladder. “Over here.” Alec was knelt. She rushed up and fell to her knees. Paul was lying there on his side. It took but a second for Kathy to comprehend that there was nothing to be done. A large dark hole had been crafting in his chest. Her breath left her and then she screamed. Paul Kirby was dead. She loved him and he was no more. Tears were streaming down her face. There was nothing she could do. Alec stood back up and the two security officers began moving in opposite directions to lock down the area. But she heard none of it. She tried to focus her eyes on his face, a bemused look of surprise etched onto it forever, but her eyes kept darting back to the massive hole in his chest. The weapon had carved through his entire body, leaving a perfect circle. “We need to move.” Alex said to her as he knelt down. “I won’t leave him.” She whispered. “Neither will I. But we need to move.” There was urgency in his voice which helped focus her. “This isn’t natural. Not right.” He said panic creeping in, “Taya is missing. Whoever did this could come back.” She nodded and stood up. As she did, she noticed the device on the wall, the lights on the side of it flashing, indicating a recharge. “MOVE.” She screamed. They pulled Paul's body along with them back to the ladder, keeping their eyes on the glowing device the entire time. What felt like hours passed. Eventually they were back above ground. Alec left Kathy with Paul’s body and the security officer which had stood guard up top and sprinted to the edge of the alleyway to report in. (Reply Security, any) (Posted by Jono Bradley - Kathy Miller) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge –FO Lt. Sienna Williams-Verin -2154) Sienna had been sitting on the bridge, the bio map readings on the main view screen and also on the one that unfolded from the Captain's chair. She was in a state of readiness that she had never really felt before. Over the last several hours, science and ops had integrated the sensors, the probes and the bio data from the comm badges. Sienna had a fishy feeling in the pit of her stomach for the last several hours, then sat up as one of the dots she had been following just..disappeared. Two others were flickering, and Sy spat out orders before she could think, "Who did we lose, and whose life signs are flickering? Ops, Science, give me answers." Sy hit her comm badge next, giving time for the others to figure out the who of the situation, "Bridge to Sickbay, I believe we have incoming wounded, please stand by to receive." Sienna blinked slowly. Taya? Something had happened to Taya and her security team? Sy's brain was working in overdrive. "Bridge to Transporter Room 1 - lock onto the comm badges of Ensign Taya's team and beam all three remaining signals to sickbay, including the dead body." Sy bit her bottom lip, the bad habit she had when she was nervous. She turned towards the crew member at the science station, her dark betazoid eyes flashing, "Find Taya. She's the only andorian on that planet I would bet." Sienna took a deep steadying breath, and hit her comm badge again, "Sickbay report in at your earliest convenience." She closed that circuit and opened a new one, "Commander Sekal, this is Lt. Verin. There appears to have been some incident and Ensign Taya is missing, presumed dead. A member of her security team is dead and the others are in sickbay being evaluated. I suggest raising the security level on our teams, Sir." Sienna added silently, ~And getting you back here where you belong, you idiot Vulcan.~ Sy waited for news. Sometimes she wondered why the job of First Officer was 99% boredom and waiting and 1% adrenaline junkie. She certainly felt it right now. (Reply any on the bridge, Sickbay, Sekal, any) (posted by Mel) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge –Ops – Ensign Dieter Gregory -2156) All ship systems were nominal, but the work that went with running a starship never did. Gregory was looking through the repair requests that were coming through Engineering. Mostly minor annoyances, not real emergencies so no need to jump on them immediately. The First Officer barked out – “Who did we lose, and whose life signs are flickering? Ops, Science, give me answers.” Gregory cleared his screen and adjusted power to the sensors. “Ma’am, there is some sort of Energy field in the area distorting our signals. I’ve routed additional power to the sensors. Science, I am working on reducing the interference on the delta bands.” (Reply science) While science worked on the identifications, Gregory started additional analysis of the interference himself. (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge –Ops – Ensign Dieter Gregory -2158) Minutes later, the FO called out again, “Bridge to Transporter Room 1 - lock onto the comm badges of Ensign Taya's team and beam all three remaining signals to sickbay, including the dead body.” =^= Transporter room 1 acknowledge. Preparing to lock on. =^= Gregory tapped into the transporter station, watching what was happening. “Ma’am, the interference is affecting the lock on. Attempting to correct,” Gregory called out. =^= Transporter room 1 to bridge, we’re dealing with inference from fluctuating power spikes nearby the signals. Can’t establish a solid lock. =^= “Find Taya. She's the only Andorian on that planet I would bet." “I’m still trying to correct for the interference. ,” Gregory called out. “Do you have Lieutenant Taya’s signature?” (Reply Science) “Acknowledged Science. I see it now. We need to define a confined angular beam that can get through that charge so it won’t scatter the pattern buffer signal.” (Reply Science) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1, Bridge –Ops – Ensign Dieter Gregory -2201) The two stations worked together, Gregory called out, “That’s it, science. Sending coordinates to transporter now.” Holding his breath, Gregory waited for the call from the Transporter room. =^= Bridge, we have lock, transporting four to the sickbay. =^= “Sickbay report in at your earliest convenience," the Lieutenant called out. Gregory watched the transporter station, boosting the power in the emitter array. His boards confirmed that four were successfully transported to sickbay. (Reply – Science, Bridge, Medical) (Written by Tim B)