USS Spectre Compile - April 1st-3oth 2011 by Alan Reading ========================================================================= Mission: Cry Havoc and Let Slip the Dogs of War Day: 28 Stardate: 2414.01.08 (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - ACMO Ensign(JG)L’Risa - 15:14) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:15) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - ACMO, Ensign JG L’Risa ACMO - 15:17) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:18) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:19) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:20) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:21) (USS Spectre - Bridge - CO, Captain T'Vhor - 15:21) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:22) (USS Avenger - Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:23) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:24) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:25) (USS Spectre – Bridge – CO, Captain T'Vhor – 15:25) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:26) (USS Spectre - Main Engineering - CEO, Lt H'Chir - 15:27) (USS Spectre - Deck 3, Sick Bay - ACMO, Ensign JG L’Risa - 15:27) (USS Avenger - Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:28) (Marine Trojan - Cockpit - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski and 1st Lt, Ryan Spinks - 15:29) (Marine Boarding Torpedo - Crew Compartment - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:31) (USS Spectre - Bridge - CO, Captain T'Vhor - 15:32) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:33) (USS Spectre - Bridge - FO, Commander Williams - 15:33) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC, Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:34) (USS Avenger - Deck 9, Unknown Location – Corporal Houseman - 15:34) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:34) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:35) (McKinley Station - Promenade - TAC/ASC, Ensign (JG) Jack Marcell - 15:35) (USS Spectre - Deck 3, Sick Bay - Ensign (JG)L’Risa - 15:36) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Captain's Ready Room - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:36) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:37) (McKinley Station - Promenade - Civilian, Philip K'Ree - 15:37) (USS Spectre - Deck 3, Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:38) (USS Spectre – Bridge – Security Officer, Lieutenant JG, Jo Smith - 15:38) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – Corporal, Houseman - 15:39) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:40) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – Marine, PFC Capra - 15:41) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:42) (USS Avenger - Deck One, Outside Bridge - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:43) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:44) (USS Avenger - Bridge - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:45) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:45) (McKinley Station - Level 12 - Civilian, Philip K'Ree - 15:45) (USS Spectre - Bridge - CO, Captain T'Vhor - 15:46) ========================================================================= Mission: Cry Havoc and Let Slip the Dogs of War Day: 28 Stardate: 2414.01.08 (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - ACMO Ensign(JG)L’Risa - 15:14) =/\=Apologies, we were just hit somewhat unexpectedly by the ETHOS vessel", said the Captain, to whom am I speaking?=/\=, said the Captain. “Excuse me, for my lack of protocol sir, this is Ensign L’Risa. We have some broken glass a couple of fused computer stations and some shaken up paitents.” =/\=A damage party is already en route Doctor, they will be with you shortly. Power has been re-routed to sickbay, there should be no further power outages=/\= "Thank you sir, I’m just trying to run a sick bay here.” =/\=You may have inbound casualties arriving due to this attack, however, I will endeavor not to shake sickbay any further... bridge out=/\= (Reply None) (Posted by Chris Taylor) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:15) The doors to Sick Bay parted and Ensign Keith Marciano walked in helping guide one of his fellow engineering crewmen, Ensign Chase, who had been injured. The sleeve to Chase's uniform had been burned off and the skin underneath was red with blisters. Marciano recognized Dr. L'Risa from their earlier encounter when he transported on the ship. "Dr..." started Marciano. (reply L'Risa) "Ensign Chase was standing a little too close to a plasma manifold when it decided to rupture during the attack," replied the engineer. (reply L'Risa) "Good to hear. Any damage to sickbay?" (reply L'Risa, any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - ACMO, Ensign JG L’Risa ACMO - 15:17) The doors to Sick Bay parted and Ensign Keith Marciano walked in helping guide one of his fellow engineering crewmen, Ensign Chase, who had been injured. The sleeve to Chase's uniform had been burned off and the skin underneath was red with blisters. Marciano recognized Dr. L'Risa from their earlier encounter when he transported on the ship. "Dr..." started Marciano. L’Risa turned to face Marciano and saw he was carrying and injured crew mate, his eyes instantly appraising the situation. “Over there,” he pointed a bio-bed across the way, out of the field of broken glass. "Ensign Chase was standing a little too close to a plasma manifold when it decided to rupture during the attack," replied the engineer. “I’ll take care of him, but if I get my claws on the man responsible for the attack he’s going to need a doctor. L’Risa crossed the room and helped Ensign Chase onto the bed and began examining him. “The good news,” he said, as he cut away what remained of the sleeve, “Is that these are second degree burns. Painful but very treatable.” He pulled a hypospray from his pocked adjusted for Chase’s size and released a drug to numb the arm. "Good to hear. Any damage to sickbay?" L’Risa, lost in the treatment of Chase’s injuries almost didn’t reply, finally he turned and said, yeah some minor stuff broken glass and so forth, but the Captain promised to make things as smooth as possible. (Reply Marciano, any) (Posted by Chris Taylor) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:18) "What is the status of the ETHOS vessel?” He asked, wondering now if she was having some sort of thrust instability due to their earlier strikes upon it. “ETHOS Vessel is limping away from us Sir, do not detect active weapons, but I would not rule them non functional yet” Alex said turning to face the Captain. The Captain nodded to her response to his query and then he returned his attention back to the viewscreen. "Do we have anything from the MDP yet Ensign Fala?", he asked. (Reply Fala) "Understood, be sure to keep me appraised", said the Captain as he again gave orders to the tactical officer in regards the vessel ahead. "Are we in firing range Ensign?", he asked. “Yes Sir” "Ready the forward Phaser banks, plot a firing solution on the ETHOS vessel please. I want you to try to disable their impulse drive only", said the Captain, "let's try and keep casualties to a minimum until Major Kowalski's team can subdue the crew with a little more precision", he added. “Yes Sir, I have their engines and weapons targeted for disabling shots” A short pause then the Captain spoke again. "This is Captain T'Vhor of the USS Spectre, Captain Grayson, please stand down and prepare to be boarded", ordered the Captain. Alex did not listen to what else was said as it did not concern her duties, she readied the firing solutions and prepared to fire on the Captain’s order. (Reply Any) (Posted by Paul Davies) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:19) Ensign Fala Taban traded looks between the view screen and his science console. The ETHOS vessel was starting to come into view and get larger as the Spectre closed the distance between the two ships. "Do we have anything from the MDP yet Ensign Fala?" asked Captain T'Vhor. "Aye, sir," stated the science officer. "They report that they have scrambled attack fighters. They will rendezvous with the ETHOS vessel in five minutes." "Understood, be sure to keep me appraised." The ensign nodded in response. (reply any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:20) Captain Thomas Grayson stood over his helmsmen's shoulder watching the view screen. He could see the edge of the asteroid belt starting to appear far in the distance. It was only a spec and looked quite a ways off. Grayson glared at his operations officer as he spoke. "The Spectre is closing on us fast." The frustration on the face of the captain was visible. "They are hailing us." Grayson stomped back to the captain's seat and sat down with a thud. He tugged at his shirt to remove the wrinkles. "Open the channel." The captain of the Spectre appeared on the view screen, his calm face the opposite of what Captain Grayson was currently feeling. =/\=This is Captain T'Vhor of the USS Spectre, Captain Grayson, please stand down and prepare to be boarded.=/\= "You really expect us to give up that easily?" asked Grayson. "We've eluded you twice. Care to make it a third?" =/\=I assure you Captain, you will not leave this system without great loss of life. There are ships closing in on your position and the Mars Defense Perimeter has you in it's sights...for the sake of your crew, please stand down.=/\= Grayson slammed his hand down on the armrest panel next to his seat severing the communication channel. A small spark flew up from the now damaged panel. "Mr. McBride, fire at will!" he yelled, tiny particles of spit flying out. "Aft phaser banks and photon torpedo banks. Fire!" A stream of phase fire headed back towards the Spectre along with three photon torpedos. (reply T'Vhor, all) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:21) As a stream of Phaser fire headed towards the Spectre also three photon torpedoes followed the Phaser fire. The Siren alarms sounded “All available power to forward shields” Alex announced and held on for dear life as the ship shook. “That was close, Weapons and engines are targeted, firing now” Alex said as Phaser beams left the Spectre. “Captain they have reinforced their shielding over engines and weapons sections, I cannot get through, not without destroying the ETHOS ship” She said turning to face the Captain, (Reply T’Vhor) “I assume destruction of the ship is out Captain! But I might be able to make a hole in their shields in the Cargobay area and a team can beam in at that location?” Alex asked. (Reply T’Vhor/Any) (Posted by Paul Davies) (USS Spectre - Bridge - CO, Captain T'Vhor - 15:21) Grayson's voice was still ringing in the Captain's ears after he had slammed his console, closing the communications abruptly as he vowed not to give up so easilly. Within seconds, T'Vhor had ordered the ship to be targeted, and within seconds also, Smithson had already responded with a volley of torpedoes that were now streaking towards their designated strike points on the ETHOS vessel. Grayson was not slow in his response either for already his ship had opened fire on them, phasor fire striking the forwards shielding as he attempted to run to the asteroid field, and hopefully to safety. "Status report please", called the Captain in regards the phasor strikes. (Reply Smithson) The torpedoes hit the ETHOS vessel, the tactical officer once again registering the hits and reporting on the damage. (Reply Smithson) "I want their impulse drive out of action and their shield generators offline, once that is achieved signal the marines to launch", said the Captain, as another volley of torpedoes streaked towards their target. (Reply Smithson, Any) (Posted by Alan) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:22) “Status report please” Called the Captain. “We have received some damage Captain, I reinforced the forward shields with everything we had spare, Captain they have reinforced their shielding over engines and weapons sections, I cannot get through, not without destroying the ETHOS ship” She said turning to face the Captain. The torpedoes hit the ETHOS vessel. “No damage, I will have to concentrate all fire just below the Impulse manifolds Captain.” "I want their impulse drive out of action and their shield generators offline, once that is achieved signal the marines to launch", said the Captain, as another volley of torpedoes streaked towards their target. “Sir I can target the shield area just above the rear Cargo bay and that should bring the shields in that area down long enough to beam a team over Sir, Orders?” She asked. (Reply T’Vhor) (Posted by Paul Davies) (USS Avenger - Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:23) The subdued lighting on the bridge of the Avenger cast dark shadows on the renegade crew. The ship shook as torpedoes struck the shields. "Aft shields to forty percent," stated the operations officer. Captain Grayson stared intently at the view screen hands grasping the armrests of the his chair. He watched as the Spectre closed in, firing a volley of torpedoes. "Divert power from the forward shields to the aft," he commanded. "What is our ETA to the asteroid belt?" "It's still at least seven minutes to the outer edge." The bridge shook again and a few sparks sprinkled down from a conduit running above the bridge. "What was that?" asked Grayson. The operations officer glanced over into another part of his control panel his fingers rapidly pressing various buttons on the surface. "Half a dozen small fighters are now within weapons range and have open fire. Forward shields are now down and the ETHOS system is offline. Decompression on decks two and three. Forcefields are now in place and holding." The captain now started to bark orders rapidly trying to salvage the bleak situation. "Equalize shields. Send another volley of torpedoes towards the Spectre. Concentrate phaser fire on the fighters." Another series of photon torpedoes headed towards the Spectre. The Mars Defense Fighters swerved around the Avenger hitting various areas of the ship with their phaser fire. One of the fighters was caught in the crossfire and had to withdraw, engines leaving a trail of smoke behind him. (reply any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:24) The first volley of torpedoes hit the shields of the ETHOS vessel, but didn't damage it. "I want their impulse drive out of action and their shield generators offline, once that is achieved signal the marines to launch," explained Captain T'Vhor to his tactical officer. “Sir I can target the shield area just above the rear Cargo bay and that should bring the shields in that area down long enough to beam a team over," explained Ensign Alexandria Smithson. "Sir, Orders?” "Look, Captain," interrupted Ensign Fala Taban. "The MDP fighters have arrived and are attacking." The view screen erupted with an exchange of phase fire between the fighters and the ETHOS ship. Small explosions appeared on the surface of this forward half of the ship. (reply T'Vhor, any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:25) Ensign Keith Marciano watched as Dr. L'Risa worked on his fellow engineering crewmen, Ensign Chase, who had second degree burns on his arm from an exploding plasma conduit. Suddenly, the ship shook and there were gasps of surprise from the crew that were in sickbay. Another shake and the lights flickered and a console exploded on the far side of the room. Ensign Marciano ran over and pried the panel underneath the console off and started making some adjustments to the controls underneath. The lights stopped flickering and went back to full strength. "I've rerouted power from the secondary sickbay power supply," explained the ensign. "We should be good until the primary systems are back online. Sickbay has one of the best power distribution systems on the ship. For obvious reasons." (reply L'Risa) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre – Bridge – CO, Captain T'Vhor – 15:25) "Look Captain.... the MDP fighters have arrived and are attacking", said Fala excitedly, the Captain merely nodded in response. All at once, all hell had seemed to break lose in the vicinity of the ETHOS ship, Smithson had just confirmed that their shields were holding and had then suggested that she could concentrate fire above the cargo bay in order to punch a hole in their shields to beam a team in, the Captain though immediately dismissed this option, turning to the tactical officer to explain his reasoning for that dismissal. "The situation is too critical Ensign, I do not want to risk beaming a team over, the Marines are on standby for immediate boarding operations. Maintain your fire on the shield generators please", he ordered. (Reply Smithson) Smithson continued on as ordered, but quickly mentioned that the shields were now falling rapidly in response to the hits from the ETHOS vessel's torpedoes, and as a result of that she contacted Engineering to see if they could spare any more power for the shields. Then she turned to the Captain once again. “Captain the Spectre cannot take much more", she began, before ending with, "...whatever plan you may have Captain, make it quick, otherwise this ship will suffer a damaging hit, which will cause a lot more damage and death, if my instruments are to believed” The Captain raised an eyebrow at that, an Ensign telling him to 'Make it quick'.... "I am well aware of our situation Ensign Smithson, with all due respects, I know how far I can take this vessel before we are in danger of falling apart", said the Captain dryly, "and that is often a long way past what the starfleet manual will tell you", he added. "Please carry out your orders" Smithson then turned back to her console and maintained fire upon the ETHOS ship. The Captain then opened a channel to the Marine hanger deck whilst the phasor fight continued on with the MDP fighters now milling around the rapidly failing vessel like mosquito's intent on tasting her lifeblood, while the Spectre's helmsman did her best to keep the ship out of the way of the incoming phasor and torpedo volleys. "Bridge to Major Kowalski", said the Captain, as the bridge shook slightly in response to the ETHOS ships returning fire. =/\=Go ahead=/\= Came the blunt reply... "Major, you are cleared to launch, please proceed with 'Storm' as agreed", said the Captain. =/\=On it.... the Trojan is ready to roll and the Martini shakers are fuellled and ready. Do you want me to bring Grayson's head back on a platter?=/\= "I'd like you to bring his entire body back Major", said the Captain, "intact and preferably still breathing if you could", he added. =/\=Aww, now you done gone ruined my fun, I was looking forwards to ripping it from his shoulders for what he did to us at Vedea IV=/\= said Kowalski. "He will answer for that Major, mark my words. Intact and breathing if you please", repeated the Captain, after following with a sharp 'Bridge out', before closing the channel and returning his gaze to the viewscreen whilst ordering the Ops officer to maintain a close watch on their power supply levels in regards the forward shielding. (Reply Smithson, Any) (Posted by Alan) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:26) "Look Captain.... the MDP fighters have arrived and are attacking", said Fala excitedly, the Captain merely nodded in response. "The situation is too critical Ensign; I do not want to risk beaming a team over, the Marines are on standby for immediate boarding operations. Maintain your fire on the shield generators please", he ordered. “Yes Captain” Alex answered and continued firing The Captain was busy speaking to the Marines, Alex saw a disaster looming with the shields. "Tactical to Engineering", She said opening a channel to Main engineering. (Reply Main Engineering) "I need all available power to shields, our front shields are weakening, we need all the spare power you can muster engineering, unless you want to lose more personnel when the front shields fall and the volley after hits our hull and could quite possible disable us ", Alex said taking stock of the hull damage and weakening frontal shields. (Reply Main Engineering) "Thank you Engineering what you can give us will be a lot of help, Tactical out" As she closed the line some spare power was transferred, then for general notification to all who could hear on the bridge “shunting all remaining spare power to frontal shields” She said then turning to the Captain. “Captain the Spectre cannot take much more, we have no spare power to shunt to the forward shields engineering just sent me what they could. It was not much but I put it into the forward shields, whatever plan you may have Captain, make it quick, otherwise this ship will suffer a damaging hit, which will cause a lot more damage and death, if my instruments are to believed” She finished. (Reply T’Vhor) (Reply Smithson, Main Engineering, T’Vhor) (Posted by Paul Davies) (USS Spectre - Main Engineering - CEO, Lt H'Chir - 15:27) "Da de, da dum, dum de dum", said H'Chir, singing some obscure tune to himself as he watched the indicators on the main panel fluctuating wildly, this was not good. Less good though was the fact that once again, H'Chir had espied the cherrub from earlier, it was actually dancing on the main flow conduit! "Not now!!", he cried, "go away you... you insolent buffoon", he hollered, much to the consternation of some of the officers nearby, one of whom approached somewhat aprehensively. "Sir?", he enquired, "are you OK sir?" H'Chir spun away from the panel frowning as he did so. "Of course I'm OK, keep an eye on that flow compensator, if it blows we'll lose the cherrub", he barked, returning his attention again to the main console. "Cherrub sir?", enquired the officer, a confused look upon his face. "I meant us", said H'Chir, this time without looking up, there is no cherrub" The officer raised an eyebrow and looked to one of his compatriots and shrugged, "I'll keep an eye on the compensator then", he said and then moved away, just as a communication came down from the bridge. =/\=Tactical to Engineering=/\= "Go ahead, H'Chir here", said H'Chir. =/\=I need all available power to shields, our front shields are weakening.... =/\= came the reply from a female bridge officer, who quickly went on to enforce the fact that if she did'nt get it, they might be disabled. "You don't say", said H'Chir, a hint of sarcasm in his voice now. Then he stabbed at the console once again, rerouting the power from their less important systems in order to provide more power to the OPS console on the bridge. "I can give you a further sixty two percent only, after that, we'll be scooping from the ramscoops.... engineering out", said H'Chir as he quickly closed the comms, his gaze turning upwards to the small, irritating cherrub that had suddenly appeared on the door frame holding a hypospanner!!! "Damn you!", cried H'Chir as he marched towards it... (Reply Any, IYW) (Posted by Alan) (USS Spectre - Deck 3, Sick Bay - ACMO, Ensign JG L’Risa - 15:27) Ensign Keith Marciano watched as Dr. L'Risa worked on his fellow engineering crewmen, Ensign Chase, who had second degree burns on his arm from an exploding plasma conduit. Suddenly, the ship shook and there were gasps of surprise from the crew that were in sickbay. Another shake and the lights flickered and a console exploded on the far side of the room. Ensign Marciano ran over and pried the panel underneath the console off and started making some adjustments to the controls underneath. The lights stopped flickering and went back to full strength. "I've rerouted power from the secondary sickbay power supply," explained the ensign. "We should be good until the primary systems are back online. Sickbay has one of the best power distribution systems on the ship. For obvious reasons." L’Risa was working on Chase with a dermalregeneartor and barely heard the Ensign’s remarks. After he had completed the task he gave Chase another sedative with his hypo spray and watched as the man’s features relaxed and his breathing became gentle. Only then when his patient was taken care of did L’Risa turn around. “I’m sorry Mr. Marciano, my apologies, I am afraid I missed what you were saying, I was a little occupied. Could you repeat yourself?” (reply Marciano) (posted by Chris Taylor) (USS Avenger - Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:28) "Shields are weakening, sir," stated the Avenger's operations officer. "The combined forces of the MDP fighters and the Spectre are too much. There's breaches on decks 2, 5, and 9." "Any good news?" asked Captain Grayson sarcastically. "The Spectre's forward shields are also weakening." "Helm, bring us about," stated the captain. "Tactical, target all forward weapons on the Spectre. If we are going down, I want to take T'Vhor with me." A big explosion rocked the bridge as the Spectre kept showering photon torpedoes down on the ETHOS vessel. Sparks rained down from the ceiling onto the bridge crew. "Forward shields are out!" shouted the operations officer. "Impulse engines are out." "Keep firing!" shouted Grayson. Another explosion and random fires started breaking out on the bridge. "Weapon systems are offline. The Spectre has launched some sort of vehicle heading our way fast!" Grayson ran over to the phaser locker located on the side of the bridge and tossed a phaser to his first officer. "Everyone arm yourself and prepare to be borded." (reply any) (posted by Jason French) (Marine Trojan - Cockpit - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski and 1st Lt, Ryan Spinks - 15:29) Spinks reached to the overhead console and stabbed at a couple of the panels, each lighting in unison as he did so, as of that moment, the turret was active and coming to bear on the ETHOS vessel, seconds later it was firing pulses of phasor fire at it's target. Ryan allowed himself a smile as the hits registered, but the ship was turning now towards them. Spinks steered hard to port, the inertial dampers countering the sharp shifting down on the left as he did so. "The target is coming about sir, going for the home run!", shouted Spinks to the rear. Kowalski was already boarding the Martini shaker with a team of six others, his hands grasping an overhead bar as he swung himself in and prepared for launch. "Give us cover as we go in Spinks, then regroup with the Spectre and continue until further notice.", said Kowalski as the he disappeared from sight as the door to the Mart hissed closed. The overhead panel of the launch tube moved across quickly, and the shaker was out in the black and heading towards it's target, a blue burn in it's trail. (Reply Any on Marine Team, Any) (Posted by Alan) (Marine Boarding Torpedo - Crew Compartment - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:31) The fall of the target vessels shields had been imminent, telemetry being relayed from the Trojan to the Mart as and when it came in had served to keep them all updated, and by the time the green light had illuminated, everyone's trigger fingers were itching for some action. Within the cramped compartment, six Marines were packed like sardines in a laid down position, their weapons laying across their chests and gripped in eager hands. Kowalski had mentioned that active targetting had initiated, meaning a section of the ETHOS vessels shields had fallen, where that might actually be though was anyones guess and for all they knew, they might even be on the bridge! The dull thud resonating throughout the outer shield signified contact, clamps were then deployed automatically and the self sealing cutter began it's work, cutting into the outer hull with ease and then extending through the subsequent layers as it did so until it hit breathable air. Then it retracted with an audible tone.... Kowalski was the first up. Immediately, he accessed the conduit control panel, a small surveillence camera having already been deployed by the conduit to give him a view of what was beyond. It looked good so far, nobody was in the compartment they had cut into and so.... he cracked the hatch and hoisted himself through, and onto the decking. "OK", he said in a low whisper, "our orders are to minimise damage to the ship and keep fatalities to a minimum, this means NO explosives... do you think that you can come somewhere close to that ideal?", he asked, somewhat sarcastically. (Reply Any on Team) Typical, there was always a joker in the pack. Either way orders were, bring back Grayson and the senior command team alive if possible, try not to damage the ship too much... These guys were Marines, they were probably asking too much of them! Kowalski walked up to the only console in the room and attached a device to it. It immediately accessed the ships layout and threw up a deck plan and their current location, along with a basic status of the vessel which was now showing red on most of their key systems. "We're on deck nine near sickbay and the ship is pretty much offline", he said to no one in particular, "this is a standard Prometheus layout, we will proceed as arranged. Houseman, you're on point... let's get this done" (Reply Houseman, Any) Kowalski lowered the visor on his Pallas helmet, the indicators coming online as he did so. The Marines then headed out through the door, weapons at the ready... (Reply Houseman, Any on Team) (Posted by Alan) (USS Spectre - Bridge - CO, Captain T'Vhor - 15:32) All at once, it was clear that the ETHOS vessel had been dealt a critical blow for it had come to a full stop and appeared to be drifting now with no power. The Captain imagined the chaos that would now be ensueing on her bridge, Grayson was a hard ass and there was no way that he would be prepared to go down without a fight, this perhaps the only remaining virtue of his past career as a Starfleet officer. The viewscreen now showed the Trojan assault vehicly veering off to regroup with them, and the small boarding torpedo homing in on the ETHOS vessel itself. "What is the status of the ETHOS vessel Ensign?", enquired the Captain of the tactical officer. (Reply Smithson) "Very good, please maintain a close watch on her power levels, Captain Grayson is not above the practice of creating a ruse in order to fool his enemy", said the Captain. (Reply Smithson) The Captain then opened a channel to the rest of the ship. "Damage report, all stations please report in", he said, and then waited as the reports began. (Reply Smithson, Any) (Posted by Alan) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:33) Ensign Fala Taban watched the view screen as the ETHOS vessel came to a stop in space. All phaser and photon torpedo launches stopped and the Marine boarding torpedo had just made contact with the enemy ship. The captain had an exchange with Ensign Smithson about the status of the ETHOS ship and then opened up the floor for status reports about the Spectre. "Damage report, all stations please report in." "Science seems unaffected," replied Ensign Fala. "All sensor up and operational. I can confirm Ensign Smithson's report. They are dead in space. I'm not reading any power readings from their engines as well." (reply T'Vhor, Smithson, any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre - Bridge - FO, Commander Williams - 15:33) Andrew watched the view screen as the view screen unfolded. The image of the critically wounded ETHOS vessel was before him and it appeared to be drifting and out of power. He watched as the Trojan assault vehicle veered off after launching the small boarding torpedo towards the ETHOS vessel. ~Looks like Kowalski and the other leather necks are having fun with the martini shaker of death~ He hid a smile knowing that was what the marines lived for. "What is the status of the ETHOS vessel Ensign?", enquired the Captain of the tactical officer. “Appears to be dead in the Water Sir, but it’s a feeling that he is playing possum”, said Smithson. “Just a gut feeling Sir, nothing concrete” "Very good, please maintain a close watch on her power levels, Captain Grayson is not above the practice of creating a ruse in order to fool his enemy", said the Captain. “Yes Sir” Williams caught Smithson mumble something to herself. The Captain then opened a channel to the rest of the ship. "Damage report, all stations please report in", he said, and then waited as the reports began. "Science seems unaffected", began Ensign Taban, "All sensor up and operational. I can confirm Ensign Smithson's report. They are dead in space. I'm not reading any power readings from their engines as well." “One thing I did learn while doing diplomatic tours with my Father Ensign Taban is to expect the unexpected. You can guarantee that if we can detect their damage and such, they can detect our damage. Not knowing the ETHOS Commander I cannot speculate on what he will do next, though he is somewhat persistent” He heard Ensign Smithson reply and gave a mental grin. ~Well at least the crew is talking to each other~ He looked back at the view screen and realised that waiting was all he could do. These were the times he wished that he was a junior because at least they had jobs to fill, but all he could do was wait until the marines communicated back from the ETHOS vessel. ~I do really hope that they are going to be okay~ (Reply Smithson, Any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Spectre – Bridge – TAC/ASC, Ensign Jg Alexandria Smithson – 15:34) Alex was too busy to watch the viewscreen, but she was tracking their shuttle as the ETHOS vessel came to a halt. "What is the status of the ETHOS vessel Ensign?” Enquired the Captain of the tactical officer. “Appears to be dead in the Water Sir, but it’s a feeling that he is playing possum” Looking back at the Captain “Just a gut feeling Sir, nothing concrete” "Very good, please maintain a close watch on her power levels, Captain Grayson is not above the practice of creating a ruse in order to fool his enemy", said the Captain. “Yes Sir” Alex said returning back to her console, silently chafing that her privileged upbringing sneaked through as she said to the Captain make it quick.. She was not proud of this, it is not what she had been taught, it was un-diplomatic. Mumbling to herself “get a grip Alex, control that Silver-spooned mouth of yours” She hoped no one else heard her exact words and just to her mumbling as nerves. The Captain then opened a channel to the rest of the ship. "Damage report, all stations please report in", he said, and then waited as the reports began. "Science seems unaffected," replied Ensign Fala. "All sensor up and operational. I can confirm Ensign Smithson's report. They are dead in space. I'm not reading any power readings from their engines as well." Looking over at the Bajoran “One thing I did learn while doing diplomatic tours with my Father Ensign Taban is Expect the unexpected. You can guarantee that is we can detect their damage and such, they can detect our damage. Not knowing the ETHOS Commander I cannot speculate on what he will do next, though he is somewhat persistent” Alex said returning to look at her console. (Reply Taban) (Reply T’Vhor, Taban, Any) (Posted by Paul Davies) (USS Avenger - Deck 9, Unknown Location – Corporal Houseman - 15:34) "OK", he said in a low whisper, "our orders are to minimise damage to the ship and keep fatalities to a minimum, this means NO explosives... do you think that you can come somewhere close to that ideal?", “Where’s the fun in that.” Houseman grinned as he grabbed his weapon. He watched as the Major accessed the room’s console. "We're on deck nine near sickbay and the ship is pretty much offline", he said to no one in particular, "this is a standard Prometheus layout, we will proceed as arranged. Houseman, you're on point... let's get this done" “On it boss.” He sealed his Pallas helmet, quickly scanned the indicators to make sure that they were in the green, checked his Mark II-D phaser sidearm and proceeded to the door. He tapped the door control and stepped out into the corridor, weapon ready, scanning for any sign of trouble. Seeing that the corridor was clear he motioned of the others to follow him as he set off down the corridor following the preset way point that were illuminated in his helmets display. (Reply Any on Team) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Spectre - Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:34) The ship stopped shaking. It appeared the worst had passed. Ensign Marciano brought up the engineering status board on a nearby wall console. Weapons were on standby and everything else seemed operational. The engineer heard someone speaking behind him. He turned to see Dr. L'Risa who had just finished working on Ensign Chase. "I’m sorry Mr. Marciano, my apologies, I am afraid I missed what you were saying, I was a little occupied. Could you repeat yourself?" He honestly couldn't remember what he was talking about previously. "Nevermind," he replied. "You should be fine now. It appears the fighting is over and secondary power systems are now in place until we can fix the primary power conduits on this deck." (reply L'Risa) "No problem," he responded. "Maybe we'll have time a little later for that drink after all." (reply L'Risa) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:35) After Ensign Fala Taban gave his status report to the captain, the Ensign Alexandria Smithson piped up from the tactical station near the rear of the bridge. "One thing I did learn while doing diplomatic tours with my Father, Ensign Taban, is: 'Expect the unexpected'," the tactical officer stated. "You can guarantee that is we can detect their damage and such, they can detect our damage. Not knowing the ETHOS Commander I cannot speculate on what he will do next, though he is somewhat persistent." Taban nodded. "Persistent is an understatement. He's eluded us three times." (reply any) (posted by Jason French) (McKinley Station - Promenade - TAC/ASC, Ensign (JG) Jack Marcell - 15:35) As the motley tour group made their way across the promenade, Jack peeled off to the side so he was strolling next to his two new shipmates. Their excitable guide apparently had somewhere in mind to take them to, but Jack was less interested in whatever profit-driven tourist bazaar they’d arrive at and more keen to get to know the others in the group. Making sure he was out of earshot of K’Ree – this didn’t seem too difficult, the Dopterian was apparently distracted enough leading the way, Jack turned to his companions. “So, It’s Ensign Rock, right? And Ensign Caras? It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” (reply Rock, Caras) “Ah, sorry. Don’t be so surprised” he gestured with the PADD he was still holding. “Security officer. Got a little of the Spectre’s personnel details, only names and pictures really – but I recognised you both earlier.” (reply Rock, Caras) Jack smiled. “So three Humans, a Breen and a Dopterian walk into a bar...” he paused a second. “It’s kind of like a joke, isn’t it... makes me kind of wonder what the punchline is going to be.” (reply Rock, Caras) “I guess there’s only one way to find out” he grinned again at the others, and strolled straight into the back of a now-stationary Breen as their tour group came to a halt. Staggering back, Jack looked up apologetically as Lileo appeared turned and stared down at him. “Crap, sorry.” He turned away in embarrassment. (reply Lileo) ~ Smooth Jack, very very smooth. ~ K’Ree had apparently led them to a storefront hidden away in a back corner of the promenade, but despite the position it looked fairly busy – a stream of non-human customers flowed in and out the entrance. Regaining some of his composure, Jack realised that their guide was talking. “...friend of mine, who obtains items from a varied and some unusual species. If you are looking for something that is a little more... shall we say exotic, then you will most likely find it here. However, the owner, Blart, is quite cheap, and his fee for my business is minimal, so I do not always recommend him to my friends. But I can tell that you all are an eclectic group, with tastes that may vary from the norms of your Starfleet brethren." Grinning, Jack turned to his companions and spoke under his breath. “Why do I get the feeling he says that to anyone that takes him up on a tour.” (reply any) (posted by Toby F) (USS Spectre - Deck 3, Sick Bay - Ensign (JG)L’Risa - 15:36) The ship stopped shaking. It appeared the worst had passed. Ensign Mariano brought up the engineering status board on a nearby wall console. Weapons were on standby and everything seemed operational. The engineer heard someone speaking behind him. He turned to see Dr. L’Risa who had just finished working on Ensign Chase. “I’m sorry Mr. Marciano, my apologies, I am afraid I missed what you were saying, I was a little occupied. Could you repeat yourself?” He honestly couldn’t remember what he was talking about previously. “Never mind,” he replied. “You should be fine now. It appears the fighting is over and secondary power systems are now in place until we can fix the primary conduits on this deck.” “That’s good to know and a relief to my paitents, so have we taken the ETHOS ship out. Were there any casualties, should I prepare Sick Bay?” (reply Marciano) (Posted by Chris Taylor) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Captain's Ready Room - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:36) The Avenger continued to get pummeled by phaser fire from both the Spectre and the Mars Defense Perimeter fighters. As a rogue operation, only a minmal crew could be spared by the group responsible for creating the ship. There were half a dozen officers on the bridge and about a dozen engineering officers. While all hell was breaking loose on the ship, Captain Thomas Grayson stood at his desk looking down at the computer console. A subspace communication was now open to the leader of the group behind building the Avenger. "This was supposed to be a quick hit and assassination mission, Captain," stated the gruff voice on the other end. "You were to avoid contact at all costs. We gave you one of the most sophisticated ships in all the fleet. But through your incompetence, you couldn't even do that." "There is no excuse, sir," replied Grayson with a wrinkled brow. "The Sol System is heavily guarded. We should have had another operative take out the Admiral." "Well, thanks for the advice. Unfortunately it's going to be your last. We cannot allow the ETHOS technology to fall into Starfleet hands. You are orded to set the self destruct." "Understood," stated Grayson plainly. He touched a button on the console and the communication channel was closed. Thomas Grayson gave a sigh. A serious look was on his face as the weight of failure drew heavy on his soul. He slowly walked out to the bridge. (Reply Any) (Posted by Jason French) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:37) The doors to the ready room opened up and Captain Thomas Grayson walked out onto the bridge. "A marine transport vessel has come in contact with the hull," stated the operations officer. "We have intruders on board." Grayson nodded. "Mr. McBride and Higdon, join me at the science station." The officers walked over to the side of the ship and gathered behind their captain. "Computer, destruct sequence 1, code 1, 1-A," stated Grayson. Worried looks turned to anger on the other bridge officers. Anger at the crew of the Spectre, who had foiled their plan and doomed them all. "Computer, Lieutenant Ben McBride, Chief Tactical Officer, destruct sequence 2, code 1, 1-A, 2-B." "Computer, this is Commander Jessie Higdon, First Officer, destruct sequence 3, code 1-B, 2-B, 3." [Destruct sequence completed and engaged. Awaiting final code for five minute countdown,] responded the computer. "Code zero, zero, zero...destruct...zero," replied Grayson. [Destruct sequence is activated.] "I'm sorry that your careers have been cut so short," stated Grayson now addressing the rest of the bridge. "I've been told that our families will be greatly awarded for the work we have done." One of the younger officers made a break for the turbolift and a burst of phaser fire sent him face first into the carpeted bridge. Thomas Grayson lowered the phaser back into its holster. "Now unless there's any more objections, let's barricade the bridge and get ready for some uninvited guests." (reply any) (posted by Jason French) (McKinley Station - Promenade - Civilian, Philip K'Ree - 15:37) "So, K'Ree," one of the humans said, carrying the book he had just purchased...for full price, "I'm sure I just made you a nice bit of profit then? This is already turning out worthwhile for you I’m sure." K'Ree wasn't sure whether to frown or smile, "Yes... and no, as I said, my commission for these... Ferengi is not great." He brought his voice down to a whisper, "But really sir, paying full price to a Ferengi? The good news is that they sold it to for that price so they must have obtained it through regular channels. Still, I am pleased you found something. But our next stop will be more profitable for both of us." "You'll be taking us down to places where Starfleet ensigns probably shouldn't go then," Marcell commented. "I'm still not sure how you're going to benefit from this... and I've never known anyone to run anything like this without an ulterior motive." K'Ree looked shocked, "Sir! You wound me. I supply my service as it is what I do, to help stir trade. I am paid a commission by the shop keepers to steer customers their way. I would never send anyone to anyplace that is completely unsafe. That would do little for my reputation. However, I always guarantee that a good time will be had by all." "Nonetheless," the ensign continued, "I'm not someone who's ever walked around covered in cotton wool. Let's see what you have to show us." ~What an odd turn of phrase this human has. Why would he ever walk around covered in cotton wool? Must be a strange human habit that I've never run into before.~ "Very well," K'ree agreed, "we shall leave as soon as the others are ready." He hoped that it wouldn't take long. K'ree feared that he had already been in one place too long. He hadn't seen any unusual movement in the crowds, but it was possible that he wouldn't see it coming. Soon the others joined them and he gratefully led them to an elevator. They had been installed when it was realized that turbolifts caused certain species an amount of distress. They moved slower, and so were used less. K'ree liked them as they were encased by a clear polycarbonate so that he could watch as he decended. This was the way to go. "If you will follow me, I will take you on the scenic tour of the stations levels," he offered and moved into the elevator. He pressed a button and the chamber began to slowly drop. "This is a bit slower, but it will give you an opportunity to see the other levels. Perhaps you will see someplace that you would like to visit and I can make my recommendation." (reply any) (Posted by Al Muir) (USS Spectre - Deck 3, Sick Bay - Ensign JG Keith Marciano - 15:38) Having to make quick repairs on the fly was commonplace for an engineer on a starship. This time Ensign Marciano happened to be in sickbay. With everything patched up, the medical officer on duty, Dr. L'Risa, was relieved that their systems were up and running again. You couldn't have the monitors in sickbay down at a time like this, which the ship was under attack. “That’s good to know and a relief to my patients," stated the Caitian doctor. "So have we taken the ETHOS ship out. Were there any casualties, should I prepare Sick Bay?” A few button presses by the engineer and the main view screen came up on a nearby console. The ETHOS ship was dark except for a few explosions on the saucer section. She was starting to drift in space. The view screen then focused on the marine transport ship slamming into the side of the enemy vessel. "It appears that the worse for us is over," responded Marciano. "But, there could be more casualties from around the ship that just haven't gotten here yet. I would definitely organize your nursing staff to expect incoming wounded, like poor Mr. Chase over there." (replay L'Risa, any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre – Bridge – Security Officer, Lieutenant JG, Jo Smith - 15:38) Jo looked at the screen in front of her she had commandeered the mission ops console. On the screen she had the deck plan of the Avenger. She could see the blinking icons which indicated the marines. To one side she had the secure image display from the helmets of the marines. She was flicking between the images of Major Kowalski and Corporal Houseman who was on point. She had been an assault commander in the Marine Corps before transferring to security. She had been in command of assaults like this one and had a keen interest in how a prow did things. She watched as the point man Houseman went around a corner there was motion out of the corner of his display image. “Grenade. That’s not very nice.” There was a flash and the image wobbled and hazed out. She scanned the vitals signs from Houseman’s helmet and found that he was okay. The blast had been deflected by the corner of the corridor he had just ducked behind. “He was lucky.” ~Hope that they get this over quickly. As its sure to get more nasty~ (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – Corporal, Houseman - 15:39) They were moving through the ship at speed. Houseman scanned every corridor and junction they came to. Just around the corner was the turbolift that would lead them to the bridge. ~This is far, far to easy~ As he stepped into the corridor he saw movement out of the corner of his eye. Two shapes were moving towards the turbolift but the thing that caught his attention was the small flying object that was heading towards him. It took a split second for his mind to recognise what it was. ~Ow grate~ “Grenade.” He lurched back behind turning his back towards the inevitable explosion. There was a loud bang, a wave of over pressure and a flash of heat as the grenade exploded. ~They get have grenades~ He spun back round and sprinted down the corridor towards the turbolift. He placed the opening device against the door and carefully opened it. He stuck his head into the turbolift shaft and looked up to see that the turbolift had stopped at deck on one the bridge. He turned back to Kowalski. “Sir. Me and another can go up the turbo shaft, get access to the lift by the bottom hatch and then crack the door and send in a couple of flash bangs as a diversion. I’ll have to close the emergency braces so that they cannot drop the lift while we are inside.” (Reply Kowlaski, any) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:40) The house's sentiment had pretty much summed up the moment, and everyone had felt the wave of pressure from the nearby blast. So they wanted to play dirty did they? T'Vhor had explicitly requested that they try to take the ship intact, this of course meant no explosives due to the risk of decompression. Clearly, this crew had no such misgivings and the fact that someone had just lobbed a photon grenade in their direction meant only one thing... It had already been decided that the ship was expendable! Houseman was quick with the options, requesting permission to climb the turbolift shaft to bypass the obstacle ahead. The MXO quickly assessed their options also. With Houseman and another gone, four would remain in the firefight here, but that was not really going to be a problem at all. Was it? ~Piece of cake~ "Take Richards, on no account move onto the bridge until we are in position", said the MXO, before looking to the kneeling Drake from his position aft. "Drake, see if you can't interface with the primary computer core... I have a feeling that we may just have to make a quick exit", said Kowalski over the Marine secure channel. =/\=Copy that boss.=/\= Drake then moved back along the corridor to a nearby ODN access point to carry out the MXO's order. Kowalski then took point himself, kneeling and accessing the TACOM in his Pallas helmet for a better estimate on just how many assailants were now ahead of them. Five, no... six crew. Sod T'Vhor, if this crew were going to lob grenades, then so were they. Kowalski thrust his back up against the bulkhead for stability and then removed a photon grenade from his belt clip before unfettering the safety, the latch clicked and a red light began to pulse... "Fire in the hold!", cried Kowalski as he threw the grenade and then ducked back out of sight, just as another barrage of phasor fire came their way. The resultant explosion caused a cloud of dust and debris to tumble down the corridor ahead of them, but there were no other sounds, and Kowalski's TACOM showed no life signs either. Drake then appeared beside him, visor now opened. "The ship is on countdown sir. Silent call, approximately four minutes zulu", said Drake. Kowalski exhaled heavilly, he had half expected this, but not so soon. Quickly, he opened a channel to the already departed Houseman, who by now was probably half way up the turbolift shaft with Richards. "House, the ship is rigged to blow. Looks like we may have to depart in a hurry", said Kowalski. (Reply Houseman) "Stand by for orders House", said Kowalski, turning now to Drake, who remained at his side. "Can you disable the countdown?", he asked. Drake shrugged his shoulders. "I can interface with the primary core and shut it down.... but not within the time we have left", said Drake, his brow furrowing up as he contemplated the apparent futility of their situation. Then he looked up excitedly. "I can buy us more time, put the control logic into an endless loop", said Drake, "Grayson will be none the wiser until he realises the ship is still here after his initial deadline", he added. Kowalski nodded his approval and then checked his assault knife on his leg in anticipation of a little close quarters fighting. "Do it", he said, "Grayson will hopefully not be clock watching" Drake nodded once and then shuffled off back to the still opened access panel. "Copy Houseman", said the MXO, this time with a little less a sense of futility. (Reply Houseman) "Drake is going to try and put the countdown into an endless loop. Proceed as planned, but be ready for rapid beamout if need be", said Kowalski. (Reply Houseman) "We'll signal when we are in position. Kowalski out", said Kowalski, as the remaining Marines then moved on up through the still smoking remains of the corridor ahead of them. Drake remaining behind, ready now less any of the ships crew should come by unexpectedly. (Reply Houseman, Any) (Posted by Alan) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – Marine, PFC Capra - 15:41) Capra’s heart was racing in his chest, his knuckles white with fear – this was his first chance at combat since joining the fleet and so far he’d done nothing but cower at the back of his fireteam. Noone had noticed yet – the haze of combat and the helmets had seen to that, but it wouldn’t be long till they saw him for the failure he was. ~ I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be here ~ He’d been drilled through situations like this a thousand times back at bootcamp, but he hadn’t expected the fear. The adrenaline was too much, the phaser fire... and the grenade. That’d been the worst thing, the explosion and the blast wave he’d felt go over him – he’d been ready to die then, had fought in the scream that he felt welling up inside. He’d yet to fire his weapon, yet to do anything other than pose at the back of the group in a covering fire position. It was all too real. People had died nearby, Starfleet men and women. ~ I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be here ~ It was like he was underwater, all the noises around him muffled and indistinct – someone was talking, somewhere. He came back around, briefly, to hear Drake and Kowalski discussing the fact the ship was under a self destruct countdown. Elation swept over him as he realised that would be an excuse to duck out early, to get the hell out. Oh well, mission over, home to bed. Fantastic. ~ I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be here, I shouldn’t be here ~ Kowalski was speaking as Capra came out of his trance proper. "Do it", he said, "Grayson will hopefully not be clock watching". They were thinking of ending the countdown! ~ No, you’re kidding. You’ve got to be kidding. I have to fix this, I have to get off this ship, I shouldn’t be here ~ Everything went muffled again, and Capra saw his own death flash infront of his eyes – a phaser shot to the chest, a nearby grenade, this stinking ship captain resuming the countdown without them realising. A thousand possible fates, he shouldn’t be here. He didn’t want to die today. He had to get off this ship. Gripping his phaser as tight as any stress ball, he took and deep breath and counted to three, slowly. Clearing his mind he tried to calm himself down as he hit his helmet comm button. “Major Kowalski, sir.” He tried to keep his voice as neutral as possible. “Permission to stay behind and cover Drake as he fixes the destruct sequence?” (Reply Kowalski, any) (Posted by Toby F) (USS Avenger - Deck 4, Corridor – MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:42) Almost instantly the team moved on, Capra had voiced his opinion in regards staying behind in order to cover Drake. That of course left them a three man team on the assault through a hostile vessel, and yet, Kowalski knew something was'nt quite right with Capra. Almost from the start of his tour the man had seemed distant, his mind seemingly elsewhere a good deal of the time, hell it was part of the reason he had chosen him for the assault squad. Sometimes a grunt needed a kick to make him perorm as per his training, sometimes though, a grunt was just in the wrong place entirely and if that was the case, Kowalski needed to know now. The hardened MXO regarded Capra briefly, his brow furrowing slightly as he did so, then he renaged on his suggestion. "OK Capra, stay here and cover Drake", he said looking to Drake where he sat hunched over the panel in the near distance. Drake shrugged his shoulders as though saying 'what the hell, I got it covered', and then he returned his attention to the ODN conduit he was working on, aware now that time was of the essence. (Reply Capra) Kowalski nodded and then lowered his Pallas helmet visor, then he moved off with the rest of his men towards turbolift One. (Reply Capra) (Posted by Alan) (USS Avenger - Deck One, Outside Bridge - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:43) The marine band comms switched in with an audible click followed by a brief instance of static. Three Marines now sat low within the turbolift, it's doors temporarilly disabled with a pulsed logic device affixed to the command console within. It was imperative now that they stormed the bridge the moment House and his compatriot came out of the service conduit at the rear of the bridge itself. Hopefully, the element of a two pronged assault would no doubt throw Grayson, and any that had chosen to remain with him into disarray... but timing was indeed of the essence. Just like that damned self destruct countdown. "Houseman copy", said the MXO. (Reply Houseman) "Stand by", said Kowalski in response to Housemans 'In position' call. The MXO then queried Drake down on deck four. "Drake, do we have a halt on that countdown", he said. =/\=Not yet sir, one moment=/\= Kowalski lowered his head and then quirked it to one side in order to relieve a slight tension in his neck, then he checked his assault knife once more. The call from Drake then came in. =/\=The count is on fifteen and cycling, If the House is in position, I would move now sir=/\= "Good work Drake... moving", said Kowalski as he once again raised Houseman. "Time to shake the can... On three, two, one".... A press of a button to deactivate the pulsed logic device, and the turbolift doors slid aside! (Reply Drake, Houseman, Grayson, Any) (Posted by Alan) (USS Avenger - Deck 1, Bridge - Captain Thomas Grayson - 15:44) The bridge crew of the USS Avenger were prepared for the assault. They had turned over what chairs and consoles that weren't attached to the deck to provide cover. The self destruct was set. It was just a matter of holding the bridge until the self destruct took the Spectre crew that were now on board with them. In the background the computer counted down. [45, 44, 43...] The assault was obviously not coming. They must have detected the self-destruct was active and fled the ship. Captain Thomas Grayson lowered his phaser and placed it into the holster around his waist. "It has been a pleasure serving with each of you. We are on the right side in this. I assure you they scum that are corrupting Starfleet will pay." [...17, 16, 15.] The computer stopped counting. Grayson gave a surprised look over at the science station and started to run to that part of the bridge when the turbolift doors opened. He quickly ducked down and drew his phaser. The Avenger crew opened fire at the now open turbolift. (reply Kowalski, Drake, Houseman, any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Spectre - Bridge - Science Officer, Ensign JG Fala Taban - 15:45) Ensign Fala Taban continued to monitor the situation from his science station. Taking scans of the area. Taking scans of the ETHOS ship. Watching the scene unfold on the main view screen on the bridge. With the ETHOS vessel now clearly damaged and with marines from the Spectre onboard, the fighters from the Mars Defense Perimeter took up formation on either side of the Spectre and waited for any sign of a fight left in their opponent. The lights on the ship were now completely off and fires both carbon and plasma in origin could be seen flickering through some of the windows. She was now starting to drift off axis. "I'm not sure what this means, but I'm reading a build-up in their anti-matter chamber and the plasma conduits around the ship," stated Ensign Fala to the rest of bridge. (reply any) "Wait a second," he interrupted. "It's gone. No signs of power at all now." (reply any) (posted by Jason French) (USS Avenger - Bridge - MXO, Major Bruce Kowalski - 15:45) All at once, all hell had broken out on the bridge of the Avenger. Immediately the doors to the turbolift had opened, a phasor blast had hit the interior of the lift directly above Kowalski's head, melting the metal and setting fire to the material covering it in an instance. There was no time to assess anything right now... the final assault had clearly begun. Kowalski had instinctively rolled out of the lift and was now crouched behind the elevated rear tactical section of the Prometheus classes bridge, he then returned fire, his TACOM identifying and designating the targets within automatically and prioritizing them for maximum effect. Starfleet phasors were of course no match for Marine issue III-C's with computer controlled targetting, and two of Grayson cohorts suddenly leapt up into the air and fell back as Kowalski's follow up trigger response, took them out within seconds. Fallon however, had taken a hit to his BDU and had immediately retreated into the turbolift, his hands clawing at his armour as he yelled expletives so as to remove it lest it burned a hole right through his chest. Then all at once, Houseman burst through one of the service conduits to the right of the bridge with Richards covering his back.... they were late, Kowalski was unsure why that might be but again, there was no time to contemplate as the bridge came alive with phased light streaking in all directions. But where exactly was Grayson? (Reply Grayson, Houseman, Any) (Posted by Alan) (McKinley Station - Level 12 - Civilian, Philip K'Ree - 15:45) Finally the elevator came to a halt and the doors opened. K'ree hadn't seen any sign that they were being followed and he relaxed slightly. "Please friends, follow me," he urged, "but stay close. There are some on this level that would not be looking out for your best interest. Unlike myself." As they made their way through the quiet corridors beings of various cultures appeared and watched. A few of the females advanced towards them. Most were shied off by a glance from K'ree. A few were more bold. An Orion female stepped towards them. "My what a handsome group," she said with a lilt in her voice. "I can accommodate all of you at the same time, if that is what you're looking for. I promise that you won't do better." K'ree waved a hand, "Be off harlot, these fine officers of the federation want nothing to do with your sort." The female hissed at him but backed off. Her eyes lingered one of the males. She flicked her tongue at him and blew him a kiss with a wink of an invitation to follow her. K'ree leaned over to whisper in Marcell's ear, "She might actually be worth the price you sir, and I do believe that she won't rob you blind." (reply Marcell) K'ree nodded and continued to walk. After a few minutes they arrived at a brightly lit establishment that had a neon sign that flashed "The Pit". "We have arrived, my friends," K'ree announced. "This is The Pit. It's name belies its actual ability to entertain and provide a safe haven for those in need of sustenance. Please, come in and I'll buy you the first round of drinks." (reply any) (posted by Al Muir) (USS Spectre - Bridge - CO, Captain T'Vhor - 15:46) "Wait a second.....It's gone. No signs of power at all now.", said Ensign Fala from the Science console. Which was odd, odd in the sense that for one moment the ETHOS vessel had been showing signs of a pre-charge to anti-matter overload.... which meant self destruct, and then nothing! It did not make sense... The Captain had already leaned forwards in his chair, an aire of urgency in his manner now as he ratified the situation. T'Vhor had had no dealings with the renegade Grayson beforehand, but he knew that he was what the Humans would term, a loose canon, and he was not about to underestimate the man. "Re-check your readings Ensign, your previous statement is illogical", he said as he contemplated the effects of a destruct in their near vicinity. "Helm, withdraw to One thousand kilometres and hold position", he added, then he settled back into his chair, his fingers drumming uncharacteristically upon the armrest console. (Reply Fala, Helm) (Posted by Alan) ========================================================================