USS Soval Compile Part 2 The Lesser Evil ==================== Mission: The Lesser Evil Day 6-10 Stardate: 2414.11.28 to 2414.12.02 ==================== (Quezal, Government Building, Taylor & Andersen, Day 6, 0817) (Quezal, Soval HQ, Andersen & Taylor, Day 7, 0438) (Quezal, Soval HQ, Andersen & Taylor, Day 7, 0649) (Quezal, Taylor's Shuttle, Taylor, Day 7, 2212) (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1523) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1527) (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1531) (USS Soval, CO Office, Syuvik, Day 10, 1559) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1601) (Quezal, Underground City, Signos, Day 10, 1603) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1605) (Shuttle Andromeda, Olsen & Crenshaw, Day 10, 1615) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1616) (Quezal - Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1617) (USS Soval, Security Office, Grun, Day 10, 1618) (USS Soval, Shuttle Bay 1, Grun, Day 10, 1623) (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1624) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1626) (USS Soval, Shuttle Bay 1, Crenshaw, Day 10, 1627) (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1628) (USS Soval, Shuttle Bay 1, Grun, Day 10, 1629) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1631) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1637) (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1641) (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1647) (USS Soval, Ready Room, Syuvik & Bates, Day 10, 1812) (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1856) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1858) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1859) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1900) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1906) (Quezal, Government Building, Quezal Policeman, Day 10, 1907) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1910) (Quezal - Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1917) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1927) (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1937) (Medical Facility, Vice Admiral Thinn's Office, Bates, Day 10, 2008) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 2016) (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 2020) (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 2023) (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 2025) ==================== (Quezal, Government Building, Taylor & Andersen, Day 6, 0817) Taylor was now facing the inevitability of having to rely almost entirely on Andersen to carry out her mission. Most of her life, she had been accustomed to work with humans and developed a bit of respect for them. But all this went into shatter. She never liked to call an entire specie as being X or Y. All her life, she fought against our people racism. But could it be possible than an entire specie were cowards? Could every member of a specie bear the dishonor committed or was it rather a group within the humans that did not reflected the whole specie? She hoped at the least, Andersen would be the exception, not the rule. Yet, she could never trust her 100%. Not with what was at stake. Taylor knew Andersen was working with the USS Soval team still working in the residential areas not far from the government buildings entrance. In a subtle move, she walked close enough to make sure Andersen would see her. Ailyn of course caught the notion and took it on herself to try to right whatever wrong happened to Taylor. She couldn't really understand why Taylor was acting like this, she never did anything wrong to her, and last time they spoke, although which was quite some time ago, left a good note between the two. Andersen really thought they've struck a connection... she thought Taylor really understands her. It wasn't easy opening her emotions to anyone after what she's been through, but she, somehow, managed to open them for Taylor, yet there she was, in front of her, clearly seeing her and yet, she wasn't the woman Ailyn thought she knew. "You again? I told you I never wanted to see you again. Why are you still coming here? There are plenty of places for a medical officer to be, but you have come here, just beside the government building entrance. Do you think I don't know you and your crew are trying to get into what was the reactor. You think I don't know why?" said Taylor "I... don't know what you're..." Ailyn started, "Don't play me! I have been here long enough, and questioned enough people to know what has been going on here for the last eight months. Maybe you think I don't know what is going on, but I do. Vice-Admiral Beckett, and Vice-Admiral Thinn have orchestrated the destruction of this planet six months ago. Now they are afraid that the Quezalth will find evidence of their involvement so they want to get there before the Quezalth do. You are here to hide the evidence of their involvement. Tell me...how do you sleep at night? How can you be involved in the death of an entire specie? I swear I will gather all the evidence I need and all of you will be incarcerated for genocide. The galaxy will know you for the murderers you are." Taylor said in a mix of tears and anger. "Oh, and don't think eliminating me will cover this. I have already told the general and many other friends. If I don't report back to them, they will be here. Everyone will be here. You can't hide." Ailyn immediately grabbed Taylor's arm and pulled her over the corner. "Hush, stop yelling these things. I don't know who's been poisoning you with these blatant lies, but that's what they are. Lies. Federation didn't ever nor would ever do such a thing, Quezalth are our allies. We are here to help them anyway we can. Of course the General might be inventing these lies, and what I am hearing are his words, it would make sense, since there's alot going on here that could benefit his supersoldier project. But Taylor..." she lowered her voice, being met with no resistance from Taylor, "... those are lies, you have to believe me. I am here from day one when USS Soval came here, and we found nothing to suggest Federation had anything to do with it." she released Taylor's hand, letting her go. "Taylor, I would never, ever hurt you..." Without even taking the time to judge how sincere Andersen was, Taylor replied in the same emotional and angry voice "Such lies... you are so manipulative Ailyn. You don't understand, do you? Stop lying, I was there! I saw them. I saw Starfleet did it. And if it hadn't be from a somehow miraculous intervention, I would have been on the planet when it exploded, and would have died there like the millions of Quezalth. No one would have known what happened. So believe me when I say I know why you are here for. You don't have to kill them directly to be a murderer. Not preventing the explosion from happening when you know it's going to happen...or being here with your crew to cover such atrocities, even if you haven't done them make all of you guilty all the same. So stop lying to yourself and to me. You are perfectly, Starfleet is perfectly, the Federation is perfectly capable of such atrocities and not only they are capable....they did it. You thought Doenitz was an exception...look around you....look at yourself...at what has been done and what will be done. This is no different. And I can see that you are against me...that you are working for those murderers...making you a murderer yourself. I promise you I won't let them....let you complete your mission. The galaxy will known about this. I'm ready to put my life on the line if I need to". Ailyn took a long glimpse into her eyes, she really believed the things she was saying, no matter how absurd they sounded to Ailyn. She could just turn her in to the Federation really. But knowing the General has contacts deep inside the Federation, she would probably end up in his hands yet again. She couldn't ask someone else to follow her, since no one was supposed to know... she had but one thing she could do. Ah the things we will do for the people we love. "Okay... how can I prove you that you're wrong? There has to be a way..." Taylor reflected on the question. How could Ailyn prove she was trustworthy. She had an idea. A first step among several to play along. "You must reveal to your superiors, in my presence, your involvement in the organisation...the general, their activities, all. You have been keeping secret to your crew... and so can you keep secret to me. Prove me you value truth above all else, even if it means hurting those you care." She sighed. To admit something like this meant not only the end of her carreer as she knew it... but letting the world know about a secret society that held itself shrouded for nearly a thousand of years, unlike most of the twelve societies that, eventually, didn't stand the test of time and were either broken, disbanded or closed, the General and his society survived through so much. Even though she could question the means of doing it, she could not question the General's motives, he really loved humanity. Ailyn wasn't simpathizing, but she couldn't have the burden of it on her shoulders no more than she could have a burden of being an spy to the crew of the Soval. When she started out, she was looking for a family... and on the first ship she was assigned to - practicly fresh from the Academy, the USS Rosenante, she found that family. And although, like every family, they had their ups and downs, she felt she belong somewhere. A thought of loosing it all... "When this mission is over... I'll do exactly that." she said, seemingly calm. Once again she decided to post-pone the inevitable for later. She knew from day one that this day might come eventually, and that what General said, that she might be the savior or a doom to his plans of future humanity, could come true. But this wasn't exactly the time to think of it. She would deal with it once the right time kicked in. "I know this wasn't what you wanted to hear, but helping these people should be number one. They lost their homes, they lost their families, loved ones and they really lost all hope. Can we, at least for the moment, forget our allegiances and our differences to help those in need?" She hoped this is enough for Taylor to chew on, for the time being, or at the very least, to force her to ask for something else. Ailyn was right. It wasn't the kind of answer she had expected. She had hoped her answer would reveal a lot about who she was, our allegiances, and intentions...but her answer actually blurred it even more. She neither declined nor really committed to the idea. All she did was postpone facing the problem. Taylor was trying to determine if it was a good thing or a bad thing. It would be a good thing if it meant she was committed with both and did not knew which to chose. It would be a testimony to her allegiance. Allegiance, however, that could make her hesitant to act against her crew if the situation presented itself. It would be a bad things if it showed, like Taylor had the impression, that Ailyn was stronger than she showed. That she indeed knew how to get ourselves out of situation, which could means she was indeed working with the USS Soval. "Ailyn, this is not an answer. You are only avoiding it. This is the time to make a choice. This is a time to make a stand about what you are living for? Do you trust what I'm telling you about what I have seen? Who do you trust the most? Me, your crew or the general? I want an answer straight up and a clear one! Now let's see if you really meant those words. If you really love me, or at least if you are really committed to helping the Quezalth, you will help me." "And you never care how I feel? How HARD this is for ME? You're just like the General, he really taught you well, forcing people to turn against other people for some personal gain... this is not about love, this was never about love, you see how far General is from us, yet how much he poisons our mind? Do you not see how he's turning us against each other, even after we've been through so much together, can't you see that his influence is clouding your judgement? Did you remember it was me who covered you those times against the General, that it was me who tried finding you and that it was my idea to let go of his organization so we can be together, far away from his disease he calls evolution... how can you not believe me after that? I risked my life for you, I still am standing here, arguing with you... something that doesn't seem to bear fruit..." Ailyn started crying, her tears rolling on her cheeks, she was looking down, she really didn't want to look at Taylor now. She wiped her tears with her hand, griping her other hand so tightly. She wanted to believe her so badly, and while she could believe Taylor saw something, she just could see it being wrongly interpreted. The crew of Soval would never endanger Quezalth willingly. Of course, this didn't need to mean the Federation did not have any ties to what happened. "Taylor, I am sure the crew of the Soval would never do something like this. I have been monitoring them, and spying them for the last couple of months. I've been cracking and reading their personal logs, their holodeck programs, things they eat, books they read, their talking habits, their body language, their hobbies, their fears and joys and all the transmissions I could monitor from our ship to their families... there I admitted I did that to my friends. I can also assure you, the crew of the Soval didn't do it. Now, can you stand in front of me and tell me that I wouldn't catch something like this being talked between? Do you think I'm not good enough?" Ailyn asked wondering what's Taylor is going to do next... whatever she could say, it didn't seem she could change the way Taylor thought. "Stop talking about the general, he has nothing to do with it. It has nothing to do with the general and everything to do with Starfleet. I'm trying to trust you, but I cannot ignore what I've seen. And seeing you defending them the way you do, it create doubts. Perhaps you right...but perhaps you are wrong. You know some of the Soval crew. Most, you don't since you never served with them. And I cannot know who is behind and who isn't, but trust me when I said I am certain part of Starfleet are behind it, and that you must trust no one. Certainly some among the Soval crew are collaborators. And there are too much at risk to try to guess who is on the right side and who isn't. There is too much at stake. You must trust me and me alone. And I need to be sure I can count on you...even if it means disobeying your superiors in Starfleet." (Reply none) (Posted by Nick & Lani) ----- (Quezal, Soval HQ, Andersen & Taylor, Day 7, 0438) Taylor had been spying on the Soval camp for a few days now. She knew exactly at what time Andersen roommates had to leave. As he/she did, Taylor sneaked in Andersen room. She found Andersen sleeping deeply, sometimes smiling, sometimes wincing. She felt so vulnerable, yet so adorable. So she moved just beside the bed and went down on her knees to get the right height. She was good looking. It was one of the rare time she could see her beautiful long brown hair free of her ponytail. She would have loved to have such long hair. That is why she always envied Ailyn for her beauty. As Taylor, she allowed herself to have longer hair than usual but it was still too short... when she was herself, a Romulan, she was forced to have short hair....never would she have Ailyn's hair. Taylor got her finger into Ailyn's hair, petting her softly. As Ailyn become tempting, she could felt her heart beating strongly. As she was felt lost in those huge and impressing waves... she suddenly sensed a feeling of security and joy. It was a comfortable, almost tickling sensation that was bringing her back to safety. She really gave up to the moment, letting the incredible sensation spread to her bodies. Wherever she was, she didn't wanted to move. It was so nice. She was slowly drawn away from that place, but as she felt still incredible, she didn't moved, afraid she would lose it all. As she concentrated on the sensation, she started localizing where it came from. It was from her hair...and the sensation was like a soft touch. As she opened her eyes, she saw Taylor, just beside her, staring at her as if she had been there for hours. Mixed feelings started to float on the surface, creating confusion. "What......what are you doing here?" she finally said, jumping quickly out of the bed as a Cat being surprised by a dog. "What if they see you here." She was so happy to see her, yet, the one emotion she was able to convey was her surprise. It wasn't getting out. It was stuck in her mouth the same way regrets can't fade away. Taylor stared at Andersen eyes. She didn't speak for several seconds, giving Andersen the time to calm down. "I'm sorry. Sorry for the way I've called you. I was so afraid the woman I loved were a traitor. I was so afraid you were using my feelings... I'm so sorry to have doubted you. To have thought you were working with them. I hope you will ever forgive me." she said, crying. Part of Ailyn was trying to convince herself to remain where she was. That Taylor had been weird lately and she needed to be cautious. But her hearth was urging her to jump at Taylor and so she did....throwing herself in her arms. As the heat of her body warmed her cold arms, her heart was beating quickly. For a moment, she felt she was going to collapse so much her pressure and body temperature elevated, and so much she was palpitating. "Ailyn, I love you. I love you so much. I have always loved you. I know I am putting everything at risk by coming here, but after yesterday's conversation, I had to come here. I had to tell you how much you mean to mean, and how much I was afraid to have lost you." Taylor said still crying. This was coming true... the moment she had waited for so long was coming true. She felt so good, so vigorous...so happy. As it gained our arms and legs, she surprised herself almost lifting Taylor in the air and violently pressing her on the wall behind her. She started kissing her passionately... as if she couldn't get enough of her. She wanted her....she wanted her so much....too many times she had gone away....today, she wouldn't...today she was hers. (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Soval HQ, Andersen & Taylor, Day 7, 0649) As she opened her eyes, she saw her left arm was still around the neck of the beautiful Ailyn. What a night it was. She could still feel Ailyn's tongue... her muscles were still jiggling from the sensation. It had been amazing......... But now, duty was calling. As she started to get dressed, the pain started to invade her. How agreeable the night had been and already, the sensation was fading away, as remorse and guilt took over. She couldn't, she couldn't let it unguarded. She had to keep her composure. Behind her, Ailyn started to awaken. Hopefully, she couldn't see her face... "Hey, Tily ? You are leaving?" Ailyn said, still sleepy but with a smile so wide. The night had been memorable for both. "Yes, we need to be prudent, I cannot be seen here." she said. As she pronounced the words, she felt there were darts to Ailyn's heart. Not because of what they meant, but rather because of what hidden behind them. But she couldn't think about it now. She went too far to have remorse now. She had to carry it out to the end, whatever the cost. As she pushed the thought aside, she turned to kiss Ailyn's on the forehead. "It was such a great night." "It was" Ailyn said, feeling it was the best night she had for months. Taylor had difficulty pushing those thoughts away, and as she struggled, her smile disappeared. "Hey, ...what's going on?" Ailyn asked, moving closer to Taylor to be able to kiss her too. "Nothing..." Taylor simply said. "Darling...I know you a little better than that." Ailyn joked, trying to learn what it was about. "I feel so guilty. I'm so sorry Ailyn....to have doubted you....I hope you forgive me....I'm so sorry." Taylor started saying... converting her pain of betraying her into this fake pretention. "Tily....Tily, I forgive you. I will always forgive you. I love you....I love you so much. I want to spend the rest of my life with you." she said, getting her arms around Taylor....and slowly starting to kiss her down her neck. "Yes but..." she said...before starting crying as if her own world was falling down. Ailyn was trying to comfort her, but there was nothing to be done....Taylor couldn't stop crying. "What's going on Tily. Tell me...I want to help you....what's going on?" "I can't.... I really can't.....you mean to much to me.... I don't want to lose you again...." "Why are you saying that.....What's going on?" Ailyn said, not making any sense of this. "Tily...if you want me to help you, you need to tell me." "Because......" Taylor trying to say, still crying... "because, I know you care about your crew, yet I have to do my job." "Tily...you are wrong about them, they would never do that. You have the wrong people." she said... afraid this conversation was turning back to the almost nightmare of the day before. "I don't want to have this conversation again....not after tonight. But please trust me." she said. "I do trust you. I would trust you with my life. But so do I with my crew. I know them and I'm really telling you, you got the wrong people." Ailyn said. Fear started to invade her. After such a wonderful night, she was now so afraid she would lose Taylor once again. For a reason she couldn't understand, they were both really determined of very opposite view of their crew. Ailyn knew Steve, Tom, S'yes, Sanok... most of the crew. They would never do that... As for the Soval, she didn't had time to know them, but she doubted they were the kind of people Taylor described. But could she be right. She loved Taylor so much, she didn't wanted to lose her. But perhaps Taylor wasn't....no, she couldn't continue this train of thought. She loved Taylor, whomever she may be. Even if she had some problems, love was to look over it...to help her. "Then, I need you to do me a service." said Taylor. "What is it?" (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Taylor's Shuttle, Taylor, Day 7, 2212) As soon as Ailyn accepted, Taylor had left. It had taken all her strength to act the way she did...and she managed to carry it out. But it really drained her out emotionally. She couldn't contain it anymore. That morning, she walked right straight to her shuttle, looking straight at the floor while her tears fell on her cheeks and as soon as she got in, she cried and cried and cried. For the whole day she cried, on the bed, not wanting to get up. All she wanted was to spend her entire life in the bed. And still in the bed she was, more than twelve hours later. She didn't even ate. She wasn't hungry. She preferred to sleep her life away...at least she wouldn't have to live through this... Truth was, perhaps she was indeed in love with Ailyn. Perhaps she didn't faked it...Perhaps it was why it came so naturally and felt so authentic and why she was feeling so devastated and so ashamed of herself. After such a wonderful night, she couldn't bear the reason why she went there. It wasn't because she loved her, or to make her love. She went there to manipulate her...to convince her to do something specific for her. And only now did she realized how big the mistake was...now that Andersen had agreed to it, for the love she had for her... she felt so mad at herself, she wanted to pull her skin out. She wanted to suffer all the pain there was to suffer. Ailyn would hate her for the rest of her life. If she had indeed fell for her, the person she loved the most would hate her now and for good reason... Even if it was for a good reason, how could someone forgive you for playing with their feeling. How could Ailyn ever let herself love her and be so vulnerable with her again. This wonderful night would be the first, and the last moment she will have with her. For the rest of her life, this memory would be at the same time the most memorable moment of her life as well as the worst and most cruel one. How could she look herself in the mirror. How could she live knowing the person she loved hated her. What her people...what the Romulans asked of her was too much. She had accepted to put the needs of her people before hers, but she realized now the sacrifice would be much greater than she anticipated...because she didn't think she could survive this...this pain.... (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1523) Jennifer was astonished by the progress made. In five days, the USS Soval crew had almost liberated the entire city from rock. Only the eastern residential areas and the industrial sector was still under tones of debris. However, it didn't took long for the Quezalth authority to learn about their progress and send teams there. Several Quezalth investigation teams and security were not present in the vicinity of the government buildings. She also knew Starfleet 'official' investigation team had entered the area. However, at the look of their face, each time they left, it seemed the collaboration between the two were almost inexistent. As the away team moved toward the entrance, there was a group of Quezalth security waiting at the entrance. "You do not have access to this area anymore. Decision by the provisional government of Quezalth", said who seemed to be the group leader. Jennifer did not even knew the Quezalth had formed a provisional government. "We have just cleared the path for our medical teams. Some families still have hope to find survivors. Others want to recover family belongings." Jennifer said. Jennifer had been studying the Quezalth for the last six months. She started knowing them quite well. It was clear they did not trusted the Federation and wanted to check the site before anyone else could. However, they couldn't allow it. Based on her superior in Starfleet Intelligence, the Romulans could have spied or collaborators on the planet who could be placing false evidence to inculpate the Federation. As she moved away from the guards so that they could not hear her. "Sir, Starfleet Intelligence believe the Romulans could have collaborators among the Quezalth who could be tampering with the evidence. We need to find a way to get inside." she said. (Reply Sanok or Jackson) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1527) Tom had left the Engineering team site. They were making fantastic progress. He crew has just about removed all of the entire city from rocks and other debris. He flip side to this astounding progress was the local authorities had sent investigative and security personnel to the government building. The amount of friction between SF and the locals had gotten worse. Tom suspected that there might be altercations in the near future. Tom was near the government building and saw a group forming. His ‘sixth’ sense was at Red Alert. the local group was speaking to the SF recovery team. It appeared that the access to the complex was being halted. Jackson quickened his pace. Tom strode up and addressed Jennifer Bates. “Hi, any problems?” (Reply: Bates) Jennifer quickly explained the hold up. Tom was now sure that there was a third party pulling the strings. Tom tapped his communicator and asked Matrix to come to his location ASAP. Jackson was not getting a good feeling. Maybe there was something that was being hid. (Response: None) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1531) Jennifer walked back to the group. “Hi, any problems?” asked Lieutenant-Commander Jackson while Jennifer was still fixing the two guards at the entrance, trying to hear what they were whispering to each other. "What??....Ehhh...." she stopped, jungling with the question. "I guess there is no better way to say it....I must say yes, sir. They aren't letting us in...not anymore. I know the Quezalth enough, it doesn't seem to be a innocent decision. They never do things lightly so if they don't want us in anymore, I'm sure there is something they are not telling us." said Jennifer, almost biting her lips. Her superior, Vice-Admiral Thinn had words only for the Romulan. He believed so strongly that they were involved. Despite some proofs were present, she never really believed it. They had left six months ago and it would have been to strange for the Quezalth to suddenly see them return. She was convinced it was simply an accident...a very bad and unfortunate one. But could he be right? Why would the Quezalth act such suspiciously towards the Federation? The Romulan speaking in their ears was a tempting hypothesis, not to say a convenient one to explain what they couldn't. She was a scientist and while they liked to make hypothesis, until proven by fact and corroborated, hypothesis had no scientific value. Until they had more substantial proof of the Romulan involvement in this Quezalth's caution, she could not blame the Romulan. "Sir, I must tell you Vice-Admiral Thinn anticipated something like this. I remember him saying 'Sometimes, asking nicely isn't enough'. If you wondered when would be the moment we would be walking on that thin line. here we are and I don't envy the decision you (referring to Jackson, Matrix and Syuvik) will have to take." she said, noting that Ensign Signos seemed particularly attentive to what she was saying. (Reply Jackson, or any) (Posted by Nick) ----- (USS Soval, CO Office, Syuvik, Day 10, 1559) While a huge part of the crew was now on the surface carrying out their mission, as stated by Starfleet regulation, Syuvik remained, for the moment, out of harm way on the USS Soval. With so many shuttles going back and forth, there was definitely a need for the CO to remain on the ship and make sure everything was in order. Syuvik had spent a lot of times in the last few days in the Soval sickbay. The medical team on the surface had found and brought back such a huge quantity of bone residues, it was hard just thinking they were Quezalth or some humans. They had also found trace of human DNA in those bone residues, which was logical considering there were still personnel from the Federation Embassy on Quezal supervising the final closure of the embassy that was scheduled for yet another month, when the explosion happened. Based on his medical team, though, despite having been provided with Quezalth DNA, identifying who those bone residues belonged to was a very difficult task. With such an explosion, the Quezalth in the capital cities had burned alive. The news of their problem of having access to the warpcore reactor had been a surprise. It would make their situation much harder. Hopefully, commodore Larsson was easy to contact. =/\= What can I do for you, Captain =/\= asked the commodore. "Commodore Larsson. I have just received news from my first officer from the surface. The Quezalth are denying us access to the government areas. Without this access, we can't get to the antimatter reactor." Syuvik explained. =/\= I see. I cannot say I am surprised, but I really hoped it wouldn't happen... =/\= Said the commodore, thoughtful. "As convened, we are ready to take the necessary actions, but before we do, it is logical to ascertain if the unlikely yet less risky solutions can be attempted. I would suggest that the Federation, or at least Starfleet Command try to negotiate access." Syuvik recommended. =/\= I will be honest Captain, we have already tried diplomacy. That's the most collaborative they are going to be, and I'm afraid it will only good downhill. You must anticipate less and less collaboration. We will try, Captain, but I agree with your assessment, it's unlikely. =/\= "Also, Commodore, is it possible the Quezalth have some form of government? According to my first officer, the Quezalth guarding the entrance seemed to be under orders." asked Syuvik. =/\= You are not the first to make such suggestion. We have made the hypothesis they have new leadership. If we cannot confirm it, your first officer analysis add to other analysis leaning towards that conclusion. From what I can tell you, it's not a government as much as surviving leaders stepping up in this gap of official leadership. While no member of the previous government have survived, if our intelligence reports are correct, some of the military leaders here on Quezalth have. It is possible they are now leading the survivors. But we can't confirm it now. =/\= "I will instruct my first officer to search for information to corroborate or deny this hypothesis." said Syuvik. =/\= I am afraid Captain I cannot help you much more than that. We will look into what you have suggested. If we find anything new, we will contact you back. Larsson out. =/\= (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1601) Chief Olsen turned away from Matrix after a brief conversation and took the shuttle back to the Soval for another round of supplies and medical equipment. The Quezalth would not allow him into the building either, but for the moment he allowed himself to remain obedient to their wishes and walked back to Jackson and Bates. Matrix pondered the alternative, but didn't offer any immediate suggestions. A show of force may be counter productive or just the thing the needed to do. His directive to chief Olsen would likely remedy the issue mute within a few hours nonetheless. "Well Tom...not sure I want to start much at the moment, but we are here to help these people. Perhaps they don't yet know that?" asked Matrix. Understanding full well the magnitude of being rude he reflected on a few tricks they used in similar situations, but surprise was a bit lost on the Quezalth guards as they had seen the entire Soval landing party before them. Obvious uniforms gave all Star Fleet personnel away. That gave Matrix an idea. "Perhaps we're going about this the wrong way? Large crates with hover loaders would make a good Trojan horse as it where." said Matrix. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" asked Matrix. (Reply Jackson, Bates, Any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Underground City, Signos, Day 10, 1603) Jessica listened to the Commander before replying. She agreed with Jackson that getting in touch with Matrix was indeed the best course of action. "I will be ready once the word is given." She turned and walked away to prepare herself. She cleared the main group of personel and entered a makeshift supply area. She access the computer to gain the need equipment from the replicator climbing guntlets, boots, and harness. She moved over to a storage area and grabbed five spools of rope each 100 foot in lenght, rations, the transponders (three of them), extra power cells, and a backpack. She then filled a water bag that would slide under her backpack and allow her to have water even has she climbed. After everthing was gathered she began to pack the climbing pack.She put on the harness, and boots. She sighed as she knew the go order would be coming down soon. She could of called Thomas let him know what she was doing. But she did not want him to worry about her. This was a mission she alone could do and if successful she would see him soon enough. She strapped a phase rifle to the side of her pack and two hand phasers one on each side of her hip. The pack was next has she placed it on her back. It was heavy but not an unberable load. Finally she placed the guntlets on her arms and watched has the magnetic seals acivated and mounted them to her arms. She sighed now waiting on the order, she knew hhow these situations played out. Has long as the plantary people thought they still had control they would continue to act has such. Some times force was the only way, and in her life she had come to terms with being that force. The small whisper that could cause a great change. She had no dought the order would come the only question was when. She hoped it would be sooner that later. (Reply none) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1605) Tom and Steve were discussing the current hiccup in the assigned mission. Their entrance to the governmental complex had been blocked by local security forces. This seemed to confirm the feeling that there was a 3rd party influencing the activities. The mission HAD to be completed but how? Of course there was always the alternate of using a bit of force. This was distasteful as well as the beginning of a dangerous slide towards conflict. Steve Matrix seemed to feel the same as Tom Jackson. Tom had seen a few grateful Quezalans but they were careful to not overtly show there thanks. Steve mentioned the Trojan horse idea. It took Tom a moment to remember that from his ancient earth history studies. Slowly he began show a smile on his face. “I think we might want to inspect the interior s of the crates to be sure they weren’t tampered with Commander” Tom said then adding “I’d be glad to volunteer. I could use Ensign Signos’s assistance” he then added. (Reply: Matrix, Signos) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Shuttle Andromeda, Olsen & Crenshaw, Day 10, 1615) "That's what the man said Lieutenant. I was ordered to get a small compliment of marines to the surface as soon as possible. Commander Matrix wanted it cleared with the security chief first, but said he wanted two teams at his disposal." continued Olsen as he navigated the shuttle out of the Quezal atmosphere. The departure was uneventful and each took the time to admire the tranquil view of the planet's atmosphere. A far different site than on the surface. Periodically they could see sunlight glint off the various shuttle craft making their way back and forth from the surface. Soon the sky turned a deep blue-black and the artificial lights from the many star ships filled the sky, dwarfing the view of the distant stars. "This unusual Chief...he should have communicated that before we headed down." replied Crenshaw. "I'm just the messenger sir." replied Oslen. "Soval approach control. This is the Andromeda...on final approach...requesting shuttle bay one landing." continued Olsen. =^= Continue on your approach Andromeda. You are cleared to land port side, dock three. =^= replied approach control. "Lieutenant Crenshaw to security chief. I have an urgent request from Commander Matrix. Please meet shuttle Andromeda in shuttle bay one immediately." requested Crenshaw. (Reply security chief, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1616) Matrix smiled, Jackson recalled his ancient history. "Good...communication channel alpha encrypted. I want you and Signos to scan the interior of the building. Dr. Andersen and I will devise a way to get inside after you. I want to take out the guards and move in. Understood?" asked Matrix. "I've asked the Soval to send down a complement of Marines in plain clothes to assist...your call through." replied Matrix. Matrix moved away from the entrance and let the two work out the crate issue while he looked busy and talked with Ailyn. The two worked out a plan where Matrix took out the first guard while Ailyn stunned the second. They would drag the two inside the government building after Jackson and Signos were safely inside. "Dr. Andersen...after Jackson and Signos get into the building through our little rogue I will provoke the first guard...you stun the second and we'll move into the building." said Matrix. (Reply Jackson, Signos, Andersen) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal - Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1617) Tom listened as the First Officer explained what he had in mind. Steve suggested using an encrypted Comm channel. Jackson nodded in agreement. He learned that Signos and he were to scan the building’s interior while he and Dr. Anderson were to enter and disable the guards. The addition of plain clothed Marines was a good back up. Jackson thought for a minute before speaking. Tom and Signos spoke about the crate plan. Jessica mentioned something Tom had not considered – his size. She was correct that it would be easier to hide her than Tom. Reluctantly he agreed with her reasoning. “Jessica, your reasoning is sound. The timing of your entrance is a good thought“He answered. (Reply: Jessica) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (USS Soval, Security Office, Grun, Day 10, 1618) With Lieutenant-Commander Sanok recalled to the Soval for reasons still unclear to him, Lieutenant Taleni Grun had been asked by Captain Syuvik to take command of security. He was supposed to jump on the next shuttle going down....meaning the next shuttle to arrive on the USS Soval (since all shuttles were currently transferring people on and off the ship to the Quezalth Capital. He was reviewing the data on the ground operations when he received a communication. =/\= Lieutenant Crenshaw to security chief. I have an urgent request from Commander Matrix. Please meet shuttle Andromeda in shuttle bay one immediately. =/\=. "I'm on my way". he said. So it seemed the next shuttle was arriving. However, he wondered what the Commander had to say (posted by Nick) ----- (USS Soval, Shuttle Bay 1, Grun, Day 10, 1623) Grun had been ready to go down on the surface since he learned he would be in charge of the security down there. However, he learned how complicated it had been to get all those shuttles circulating... he had been waiting for several hours the next shuttle to arrive. So when he got the communication to head to the shuttle bay, it took him less than five minutes to grab his equipment and padds and head there. As he arrived, the shuttle was still completing the docking procedures. He waited for the shuttle to land safely. Since the shuttle was being sent back, there were no need to lift it to the shuttle bay.... "Lieutenant Crenshaw... what's the urgency?" he asked. (reply Crenshaw) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1624) Jessia listened while the Trojan house was indeed a billiant military manuver, used during the Trojan War. Jessica was unconvinced such a manuver would work here. What everyone else seemed to forget was the psycology behind the battle and its eventual victory. "I want do bring a few concerns to your attention. In the Trojan War, the solders of Troy had believed the war was over. The Quezalth just had a massive world wide series of expolsions. Thier people will be on edge and since we are the main suspect in this they will be looking of us to do something of this nature and if we do if we play into thier hands we will be giving them the proof they need to formally declaire that the federation was involved in the first series of explosions." She stopped to think things over for a moment. "The marines will be a needed reactionary force." She continued to think of how to gain entry to the area behind the gaurds. "First we are gonna have to figure out how we are gonna get past the scanners. Second how are we gonna pass when they open the boxes and take a look inside." (Reply any) Jessica Continued "I am easy enough to fit inside any of the crates to sneak inside but finding one for Jackson might be a bit more tricky. Maybe mounting a false floor into the crates, and rigging a small device that would cause a series of sensor echo's that would confuse thier sensors enough to gain entry. However once inside it will be a free fire event. The Quezalth will not show any quarter and will fire on sight. Jackson our first priority must be to secure the area directly behind the main gateway to allow Matrix time to enter. (Reply Jackson, Matrix, any) (posted by Matt) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1626) Jessica spoke up and mentioned some concerns she had. She raised valid points. Tom was glad they had been spoken. He also agreed that SF Marines would be a wise precaution. The 'blinding' of the scanners was also a wise move. Tom considered all she had said as well as what he and Steve Matrix had gone over. They were likely to take hits any way they went. "I understand Jessica, but we really have NO choice. I also agree that once alerted to our intention, it will be a firefight. We need to be ready to react as the situation demands. I would prefer we not kill if at all possible as well. Stealthiness is the key" stated. (Reply: Signos) The two made their preparations and awaited a convenient time to move. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (USS Soval, Shuttle Bay 1, Crenshaw, Day 10, 1627) Crenshaw was impatiently waiting for the shuttle door to open. Holding a red PADD in hand he moved out and toward security chief Grun. "Lieutenant Crenshaw... what's the urgency?" he asked. "Ensign...Commander Matrix has requested a complement of Marines to the government building location on these coordinates." Crenshaw handed the PADD to Grun. He continued, "Commander Matrix would like the Marines discreetly dressed and assuming the role of supply delivery and preparation. The ordered are fairly detailed in the PADD. They should be armed, but concealed and ready to move on the Commanders orders. They are planning to peacefully enter the building, but he felt the extra manpower was precautionary. I am returning with the Andromeda as soon your Marines are ready. Any questions?" asked Crenshaw. "No, we are not to use force unless so ordered by Commander Matrix or Commander Jackson. Your Marines should be adept in first aid and medical treatment. Part of the mission at hand Ensign." replied Crenshaw. "Very well I will prep the shuttle...leaving sharp at 1635." replied Crenshaw. (Reply Grun, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1628) Jennifer listed to the ideas and proposition everyone proposed. She had to admit, she agreed with what Ensign Signos said. If the Trojan Horse idea was a great one which was worth the risk, it was also true it was still more likely to fail. The consequence of the failure wouldn't be that great though. What she liked less was the idea to attack the guards. That was a part which would make situation far worst. They had to play it diplomatically....at least, that is what they have been trying to do for the last six months. She then approached Jackson. "If I may speak sir, this is a very delicate diplomatic situation. Even if I do agree we have mostly failed so far, I have concern about using force. It is their home. They have the right, if they wish, to prevent us from accessing those locations. While I strongly believe there is something going on in the back, forcing our way through to know what is going on is a huge risk. If we don't find anything or we don't find it quickly enough, not only could we provide them with munitions to distrust us, but we could also greatly diminish our chance to really learn what has happened which could have great consequence if we were put on trial. The crate idea is a nice one....but I don't agree with what follows. We don't need to beat the guards. We just need to get in. Actually, if you were to do beat the guards, I would have to report my disagreement in my log." she said, convinced. (Reply Jackson) (Posted by Nick) ----- (USS Soval, Shuttle Bay 1, Grun, Day 10, 1629) "Commander Matrix would like the Marines discreetly dressed and assuming the role of supply delivery and preparation. The ordered are fairly detailed in the PADD. They should be armed, but concealed and ready to move on the Commanders orders. They are planning to peacefully enter the building, but he felt the extra manpower was precautionary. I am returning with the Andromeda as soon your Marines are ready. Any questions?" asked Crenshaw. Lieutenant Grun reviewed the PADD. It seemed there was a bit of confusion in the chain of command. Captain Syuvik had given him new tasks and now Commander Matrix was also giving him orders. He wondered how much the two had talked. Yet, the two orders were not totally incompatible. "Lieutenant, is Commander Matrix ordering a strike?" "No, we are not to use force unless so ordered by Commander Matrix or Commander Jackson. Your Marines should be adept in first aid and medical treatment. Part of the mission at hand Lieutenant." replied Crenshaw. "Understood, the platoon will be ready in five minutes." Grun replied. "Very well I will prep the shuttle...leaving sharp at 1635." replied Crenshaw. "One last thing, Lieutenant. I've been given new orders by Captain Syuvik. With Lieutenant-Commander Sanok recalled, I am being placed in charge of the security personnel on the ground. I'll be travelling with you to the surface. Here is the order." he said, showing his new orders. Grun expected the order would come as a surprise. Crenshaw had previously worked with Commander Steve Matrix and was certainly a good friend of his. It was no surprise Matrix elected him in his team and became the almost defacto security leader on the ground when Sanok was recalled. But Grun was the USS Soval Assistant Security Chief before the two crew were merged. Syuvik knew him well. Now, Syuvik just made Grun the superior of Crenshaw, despite they had the same rank. He wondered how well would the Lieutenant took it....and the commander. Would it start a fight between the two crew at a very critical moment. Grun hoped not. (Reply Crenshaw) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1631) Matrix listened to Jessica and found her input priceless and likely highly accurate. "I am easy enough to fit inside any of the crates to sneak inside but finding one for Jackson might be a bit more tricky. Maybe mounting a false floor into the crates, and rigging a small device that would cause a series of sensor echo's that would confuse their sensors enough to gain entry. However once inside it will be a free fire event. The Quezalth will not show any quarter and will fire on sight. Jackson our first priority must be to secure the area directly behind the main gateway to allow Matrix time to enter." "Ensign Signos, I agree...this isn't likely to work, but I do like your idea of creating a sensor echo. Can you devise something that will do the trick? If we can get you inside, undetected then we could possibly get the rest of the team inside as well. I'm hoping with the consent of the guards. Unfortunately I don't have time for a diplomatic exchange. Let's see what you can devise." replied Matrix. "Tom...I think we should probably remain outside and let the Ensign to try entering. If she gets caught we can claim the rush of material caused one of our people to get sealed up in the crate. Doubtful they'll by it, but worth a try. If it fails we'll need to be ready to stun them and bring them inside the building. Suggestions?" asked Steve. ~Where is that shuttle?~ reflected Steve as he looked skyward. (Reply Signos, Jackson, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1637) As Tom was about to start preparations for the Trojan horse gambit, he mulled over the plan. It had its share of risk – most field ops did. If successful, they’d potentially get information that a third party was pulling the strings. It also might inflame the anti-Federation sentiments that were beginning to surface. As Jackson thought things over, he was approached by Lt. Bates. He knew little of her other than she was somehow involved with SF Intel. Bates explained her opposition to the plan. Tom listened and while he agreed with much of what she had said, the plan seemed to be stalled while all the diplomatic dancing around was occurring. “Lieutenant Bates, it is my intention to disable the guards and subdue them - nothing more. I would also point out that the diplomatic moves have gained the Federation little, if anything. We were briefed that a bit of force might become necessary. I believe that time has arrived” Tom ended with. (Reply: Bates) Tom suspected she’d report the plan of action to her Intel superiors. He didn’t much care. The time to move was now! (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Bates, Day 10, 1641) “Lieutenant Bates, it is my intention to disable the guards and subdue them - nothing more. I would also point out that the diplomatic moves have gained the Federation little, if anything. We were briefed that a bit of force might become necessary. I believe that time has arrived” her superior replied to her suggestion. Jennifer could not ignore her order. She was not simply a intelligence officer working in collaboration with the USS Soval crew, she was 'transfered' to the USS Soval, so she had to respect the chain of command. However, she was still a member of intelligence, and her responsibilities meant she had to inform her superiors in Starfleet Intelligence at the least. "Sir, it is my duty to carry out your order, even if I disagree with them, but it is also my right to note my disagreement in my log, as it is to report this to my superiors in Starfleet Intelligence. I know you are doing your job, but so am I" she said. "Sir, do you require my services right now or may I return to the Soval Headquarter?" (Reply Bill) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1647) "Ensign Signos, I agree...this isn't likely to work, but I do like your idea of creating a sensor echo. Can you devise something that will do the trick? If we can get you inside, undetected then we could possibly get the rest of the team inside as well. I'm hoping with the consent of the guards. Unfortunately I don't have time for a diplomatic exchange. Let's see what you can devise." replied Matrix. "I can devise that device, it will take me a bit but it can be done. Plus if I am found I am more able and better to..." Jessica let her voice trail. "What will be needed to be done if I am alone." She listened to the rest of the FO's plan of action as everyone put in there two cents. Matrix showed great leadership skill in listening to everyone and coming up with the best course of action. Jessica looked over to lieutenant Bates, "In the end we will all have to write reports, and video record off my tactical circlet will be attached to the mission report. In the end the powers above us will decide weither we are right or wrong. But we would not be here if the higher ups in the federation, including federation intelligence already believed that diplomacy had already failed, and force is needed, or already used." Jessica then turned her attention to Jackson "I say if this is the plan of action we are taking then I say we get me stored away on the last relief shipment in for the day. I say this because they will likly be more apt to let things slide and not look so closely at the final shipment. We can take advantage of that complantancy. (Reply Matrix, Jackson, Bates, any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (USS Soval, Ready Room, Syuvik & Bates, Day 10, 1812) After her conversation with Commander Matrix and Lieutenant Commander Jackson, Jennifer headed straight back to the USS Soval. She couldn't believe Commander Matrix had decided to use force to get in. She hoped she could convince Syuvik to cancel the order. Syuvik was reviewing one last time the file of lieutenant Vlaklor. His experience and skill seemed exactly what they needed for this mission. What concerned him however was after. He wasn't sure Vlaklor would still be the right person once this mission would be over and they would have other types of mission. Vlaklor commitment could be questionable. A ship was probably not his most liked assignment. But it wouldn't be the first time a man was assigned only for the of a mission. He was interrupted when someone ringed at his door. "Come in." Jennifer entered with a determined step. "Syuvik, I'm sorry but you must do something. They..." "Lieutenant, despite we are in the privacy of my ready-room, protocols apply. As for the decision of my first officer, even if it is a risk I may not have taken, the decision still is a tactically sound one. Diplomacy has failed so far, so there is logic to use a more aggressive tactic to succeed our mission. In fact, based on my latest discussion with Commodore Larsson, it would seems the Quezalth are becoming active. We don't know what they are planning, but we know there is something going on in the back scene. So I completely support my first officer's decision." Syuvik explained. "But...Syu....Sir..." wanted to reply Jennifer before being interrupted. "Lieutenant, you have the right to disagree, but you know I will never allow our friendship to interfere with our work. Arguing against the decision of a superior is insubordination. Am I right to assume this is not something that would be seen in your Starfleet file?" said Syuvik very calmly. Jennifer knew there was no way to change Syuvik's mind. Despite she was angry and disapproved entirely the decision, anticipating bad consequences... she left his office. (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1856) Jessica waited in the small compartment in on the underside of the crate. As she was ferried to the entrance of the gate. She heard the noise has the scanners were put in place to scan the interior of the crate. Above the small door to her compartment was various medical supplies. With in some of the sealed medical containers were Jessica's weapons. Better if she was found that she did not have weapons on her. She sighed as the sensor echo drive did its job, and bounced back clean sensor sweeps. Once the sweep was completed the guards opened the crates and started expecting the packages with in. She watched the small light of a flashlight passed over a small crack in the crate she was in. The guards pulled out several small cases checked them then placed them back into the crate, after checking a few of the packages they seemed satisfied on not finding anything. They failed to check the packages further down in the crate and check the structural stability of the crate itself. Then the crate was sealed again and she was off again passing the gate and gaining entry into the main compound. The supplies were carried off to a store room and as the supplies were moved though the main govermental offices Jessica paid attention to the turns and changes in direction keeping track and paying attention to those details now were key to backtracking her way to the main gate to let in her comrades. (Reply any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1858) Matrix watched the deployment team discretely helped Signos into the last crate and then packed it neatly with the last round of medical supplies. His gut was churning with doubt and concern of his plan to smuggle a crew member past guards in a highly risky situation. It wasn't the first time he had ordered someone to risk their lives, but he was more comfortable risking himself. In this case Signos was the key, not from size alone, but competence in getting the mission moving forward. If things started to go south he was ready to storm the guards and hopefully defuse any reaction from the Quezalth response. They began their scan as Matrix watched, trying not to be obvious there might be a problem. He turned to Jackson who was also watching along with the deployment team. Matrix cleared his throat to suggest they do something else. He couldn't turn away however. He continued to watch the guards remove the crate panel and inspect its contents. Matrix could feel the stress rush over him and he caught himself grasping for his phaser. A few moments passes and the guards resealed the the crate and Signos and the supplies moved through the main entrance, out of sight. Matrix could breath again. ~Now we wait.~ said Matrix to himself. "Okay everyone...that's it...let's get back to the Soval." said Matrix loud enough for the guards to hear. He turned to Tom, "Remind me to put Signos in for a commendation when this mission is over." said Matrix. The team started to move the remaining material into the transport shuttle and individually entered and readied their weapons in dawned pre-packed assault kits as backpacks for the next phase. Matrix emerged from the shuttle and continued to act as through they were cleaning up the area as the others in the team prepared. (posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1859) Jessica had been sealed in the carton. Her idea about having transfer occur at shift’s end had been a good suggestion. She and the carton had been scanned and per mitted to be entered into the compound. Jackson watched as Quezalian military type had questioned the police officer manning the check point. ~Serves them right~ Tom thought as the two bickered. He pretended to be working on a data padd while this had taken place. He turned and walked out of sight and awaited the signal to act. He and Cmdr. Matrix were discreetly monitoring the encrypted channel –p so far nothing from Jessica. Waiting was never one of Tom’s strengths! (No reply:) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1900) Tom waited anxiously for Jessica to emerge and take out the guards. He knew stealth and were the keys to success here. Waiting wasn't a strong point with Tom but he willed himself to wait for the agreed upon signal. Tom reviewed the assault plan with Marines sent down. Firing was to be a last resort but he cleared them to fire if needed. The Marines would establish a tight perimeter. He and the others had to be quick yet thorough in their search. Information had to be found that proved who was pulling the strings behind the scenes. Tom had his hunches but they were without fact. Through his step-dad's contacts he had heard of a couple of suspects. Jackson ran over the possibilities. He decided that the two most likely prospects were the Romulus and the Cardassians. Time would tell.... (Response: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1906) Trepidation wasn't in Matrix's mantra but he had moments of doubt and extreme concern on some away missions. Nothing was routine. However, being the FO he had a duty to push forward, make decisions to the best of his ability and training and he did so. Relying in his experience and training did leave some doubt if decisions were correct. Hind sight was always 20-20, but he couldn't afford that luxury, no one could. Clairvoyance wasn't a human trait. Matrix had been on many away missions, risking his life and those of others, but the years of duty, dedication and experience did afford a certain level of comfort. Albeit fleeting at times. Signos depicted the dedication and fortitude that the majority in Star Fleet shared. Nonetheless, away missions and new situations were uncharted territory in many cases. Somehow he knew that she would succeed and he wouldn't let things unravel. His first duty was to the crew, then the mission. He turned to his trusted friend and senior officer, "Any changes in Jessica's situation?" he asked knowing the answer. Nothing likely...they would all know about the same time. With the area cleaned up, Matrix approached the guards once again. "We are nearly done here and will be departing back to our ship shortly." The lead guard was unamused with the platitudes he didn't fully understand, but tried a smile nonetheless. "Good...we are due to leave as well. A relief shift is due on shortly, but I will inform them of the situation Commander. I thank you for your assistance and the supplies you have afforded. I will inform my superiors of your efforts." Matrix thought an opportunity might be available, "Thank you...my I ask who your superior is?" replied Matrix. "Praetor Cretak is the head of this providence." said the guard without reserve. Matrix immediately noted the title and remained composed despite the obvious implication. Matrix thanked the guard again, turned and moved toward the deployment area once again. (Reply None) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Quezal Policeman, Day 10, 1907) The two policeman moved the crate inside one of the storage area. Medical equipment would always be useful, he thought. He was then suddenly stopped by a man wearing a military uniform "Where is that crate come from?" the Major asked. Military... always too meticulous, the policeman thought. What wrong could medical supplies bring? "Those Starfleet officers give it to us." The Major looked at him with disdain, a look he would remember for a long time. "They are not to be trusted." the Major said, opening the crate. He checked the supply, removing one by one everything that was in the crate. "It's medical supplies Major. They gave it to us to attend our injuries." he dared to say. The Major gave him once again a look that was saying 'shut your mouth, I'm the one in command here'. "You don't get anything else in unless you have my authorisation. Is that clear.?" said the Major in a commanding tone. The policeman didn't liked to be talked like that. The major had no authority over him. But during the time he took to find his courage, the Major had already left, leaving all the supplies on the ground. He would to move it all back into the crate. 'Damn you' he muttered. (Reply none) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 1910) The carton that contained Ensign Signs had successfully passed security scrutiny and was hustled into the building. Tom watched Steve Matrix in action. He and Steve were close well as brothers were. They came up the ranks together. Jackson was glad he had chosen Steve as his best man. Tom hoped that his friend would find happiness as he had with Dahlia. Matrix was handling the Quezlanian officials. Tom studied him closely, partly to keep up with the flow of action and to learn something about command. (Response: None) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (Quezal - Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1917) Jessica exited her hiding area once the noise outside had died down. She found herself alone in a dark supply room. The only way she could see was though her the lens on her tacticle circlet. Though that lens she could see the large crates that filled while some were medical supplies but what suprised her was the large amount of weapon crates. She figured there was enough military supplies to start a small war. She wondered how they had aquired such a large amount of weapons and armor with the knowledge of the federation. Jessica pressed a button on the side of her circlet and began recording what she saw. Knowing know everything she saw could either vindicate the Federation or condemn them. After a quick scan of the area to make sure she was indeed alone she returned to the crate and began going though the them medical boxes removing the hyposprays. Each was set to a drug that the medical team was using on the Quezalth it was being used to keep the pain from those close to death. A hypospray set to inject a double dose into a target would knock her target out in near seconds of it entering the blood stream. Once she gathered the needed supplies she made to the door way. Jessica was armed a phaser strapped to her back but she knowledge in such subvert actions told her that it was nearly worthless. Most building had alarms with in if a phaser was fired. Thats why Section 31 agents were trained in the ways of the knife, in which she had five the throwing strapped to her right arm, and two combat knives one on her waist the other in her boot. She was no longer in her federation uniform but a black crystalline mesh infiltration suit, there was no sign of rank or of her belonging to the federation. She silently wished for the ghost suit used by Section 31 agents but that was beyond her reach at this intersection of her life. She reached the override for the door way and cracked it open slightly. A small beam of light entered into the room but it barly penitrated the darkness. She listened...time passed...silence... time passed slowly when one focused on the small details of every action of every person that was around her. Slowly she entered the hallway beyond keeping close to the wall she began to backtrak her way to the main entrance. It seened this area of the compound was used mainly for storage and little else. It seemed desolate, areas had been cordoned off due to the damage taken from the inital explosion. Slowly, silently she worked her way around guards, solders, and civilian personel. At one point she dived into an abandoned office to dodge a armed patrol. Jessica was one against many so fighting was not an option. Jessica with a quick, andskillful movent jumped on to the desk and into a hole into the roofing. There she hide amoung the supports that held the roof in place.The patrol entered the office making sure everything was has it should be. Jessica held her breath has they passed benith her. In time they to passed and continued thier patrol. Jessica continued to make her way back to her comrades. She came upon a small security alcove. It must of been where the patrol had originated. A lone security officer now sat behind console working diligently on reports to his superiors. Jessica moved quickly breaking from her place out of site and into a full sprint. The guard looked up just in time to see Jessica already vaulting over the console and drive her feet into his chest. The gaurd hit the wall and slide to the floor. He moaned has he tried to rise, as Jessica closed the distance pressed a hypospray against his neck and pressed the button. She watched has the drug entered his system and he fell into a deep sleep. She turned with no time to wait, slid behind the console and acessed the system. The system was secure and need a pass key to access the main database. Jessica had a few tricks from her days in S31, she linked her tactical circlet to the console's data port. Once the system acknologed the circlet she transfered a virus into the system. The program once the system was next accessed would create a back door and burrow though the security access protocols and overwrite them. Once the virus saturated the system or an anti virus was activated it would backlog and transmit all accessed data to a selected server. This backlog was to tricorder that Jessica was keeping just for this purpose. One that had its memory stripped down of everything that was not needed. Jessica turned she could access the enviromental controls and that gave her ideal. She pulled up a holograpic map of the govermental buildings and the enviromental power relays that connected them all. Zooming in on a power conduit on the far side of the complex she set it to overload. The explosion caused would be in area that was not occupied, but would be a big enough decoy to pull the gaurds from the entrance of the govermental complex. Lastly Jessica refrenced were she was to the main entry way. Her hands flew across the console controls as she heard voices coming her way her time was short and she needed to disappear. Quickly she backed out of the system and moved quickly down the hallway. Soon the alarms would sound as the patrol would return to find there comrade and access the system activating the virus. Jessica knew her time was short running short she had to make the entrance before all things went to hell. She knew she could not make a mistake now her being found out before she made the entry would spell disaster for the entire mission. It took time but she made the entry way, hiding out of sight the complex alarms sounded then Jessica felt a slight tremor under her feet as the enviromental relay blew into pieces. Jessica watched the guards maning the main entry way leave to respond to the explosion. She hoped that they would just brush of the explosion has a faulty relay in an already damaged area, and the officer the patrol found was just asleep at his post. But if they were found things would get intresting quickly. Once the coast was clear she made her way to the doors and opened them. She stepped though pulling her phaser, she took aim at one of the police officers. "Be somewhere else." It was the cold voice of the assassin that dwelled with in her. Apperantly this was more of a fight than the police wanted to deal with and they abandoned post. "Come on quickly." Jessica spoke to Jackson, Matrix, and the gathered federation officers that were stationed around the entranced. (Reply Matrix, Jackson, any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 1927) Those few minutes weighed on Matrix as he waited for Signos to emerge or be captured. He watched the guards as the others attempted to pretend to pack up the remaining gear which they did not have. It was a historic act of being busy, but the guards didn't seem to notice the lack of progress by the deployment crew. Getting impatient Matrix decided to move in. "Jackson, team...you're with me." Said Matrix as slight as he could. The team assembled and started to move to the entrance of the Government building when the guard turned toward the door and paused. A moment later the guard ran from the building leaving behind his equipment. Puzzled, Matrix looked at Tom then heard Jessica's voice. "Come on quickly." said Signos. Matrix smiled and moved up to the entrance. The five of them moved through the door quickly as Matrix pointed toward the guard's equipment as one of the security members picked it up and moved inside. Then closed the door. "Excellent work Signos." said Matrix. Steve directed two of the deployment team to get the shuttle back to the Soval before the guards comes back in force. Jessica...report." ordered Matrix as he secured the door and turned off the entrance lights to the building. "I suggest we move as a as a team and document as much as we can while moving through the building. Let's see what else might be here if anything. With the shuttle gone, hopefully the guards will think Signos departed with it, but I'm sure the building will be searched nonetheless. We should move toward the interior of the building proceeding to the west wing. If we get separated make your way west of the industrial sector...about here." said Matrix pointing on the aerial image on his PADD. Continuing, "I want to investigate this area to the west nearly off reference map. Understood?" (Reply Signos, Jackson, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 1937) Signos watched as the assult team entered the entry way and fanned out. Matrix was quick to issue orders and ask for and update from Jessica. Jessica came up to his side, "I was able to access one of thier computer terminals and affect it with a virus, this should allow us access to the Quezalth database plus any of the information stored with. To allow for this, I had to subdue one of the security personel. I also used a damaged area of the base to trigger a expolsion has a deversionary tactic. Thus pulling the security forces away from the main compund, but that won't last long. Also you need to know the security force here is well armed," She paused long enough to let it think in. "Enough firepower to supply a small army." (Reply Matrix, iyw) She moved out toward one of the pathways that lead away from the main entry way. On the way a marine, handed her a phase rifle she took her place along with in the fire line. They moved out Jackson and Matrix in the lead, while Jessica took her place in the rear. If they were to be attacked it would be from this area. But no attack came, it made sense for Jessica has they moved deeper into the compound they had only one exit and by the time they made there way out it would be heavily fortified and well armed. She had seen Matrix and Jackson in battle before, but never one where thier was no option for retreat. She wondered how they would fair in such a battle. (Reply Matrix, Jackson) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Medical Facility, Vice Admiral Thinn's Office, Bates, Day 10, 2008) As an officer, you always expect there will be a moment in your life when you will completely disagree with your superior, a disagreement that is not just about deciding which is the better option, but rather disagreeing ethically on the wrong or the right of an action. Jennifer was now in such situation, completely disagreeing with the Soval command officers. She even disagreed with Syuvik, one of her closest friend. Based on starfleet military structure, you had to respect your superior decision. Loyalty was one of the most critical virtue in the military. It was expected of her, as she was an officer, that she would abid by this rule as any other officer would. But Jennifer was feeling more like a civilian, used and taught to think and act by herself with the freedom known to civilian. It was only later, in the early twenties, that she decided to become a commissionned officer and attend the Academy. Despite having spent several years in Starfleet, it was still in her to think this way. Moreover, in Starfleet Intelligence, she had found an unexpected freedom. Intelligence agent and bureaucrats were much more free to go on their way and execute their mission with the autonomy and latitude necessary. Despite she knew it was against the very principle of Starfleet, Jennifer nevertheless decided to meet with Vice-Admiral Thinn to reveal what the Soval command staff had in mind. The Vice-Admiral welcomed her in. "What can I do for you lieutenant?" the Vice-Admiral asked when she entered. "I’m sorry to disturb you, sir, but I have deep concerns about the Soval’s mission. I don’t think they are doing the right thing." She said, rather hesitant. "Causing an explosion to distract the guards, and putting to sleep another is a very aggressive and somewhat reckless decision, I agree. There were other ways to get in there without being noticed. Now, the Quezalth know we are here and want to gain access to that location. Not that they didn’t expected it, but the way we did it will raise questions more than i twill answer, for them at least, which isn’t good." The Vice-Admiral said after a brief reflection. Jennifer was surprised he already knew all about that. Her face really showed the surprise. "What, you didn’t think I would know? I wouldn’t be a very good intelligence department head if I didn’t….So what was I saying…oh yeah. I agree with you it will give munitions to the Quezalth, and perhaps even our own federation members who look closely at this event, to accusing us of hiding things and even be behind it. Diplomacy with them was already a headache, after this, we are gonna be served. This may very likely be what will turn the Quezalth general opinion against a Federation membership, and even worst, against our presence here. This would reflect badly on the Federation and we can expect to lose members. These people do need our helps, but I’m afraid we are seeking in. We can’t get out and the more we stay the bigger the problem get. So I understand your concerns, and I actually share them, but we have no choice but to wait to see what result from the reactor investigation." the Vice-Admiral added. "You are not going to do anything about it, sir?" asked Jennifer, even more surprised, the words coming out of her mouth. "Lieutenant, it's too late for that. They have already done it and doing something now would simply make all this be for nothing. From what I know, they are in and have now the opportunity to investigate the reactor and prove we are not guilty. I don't have time now to worry about the past. I do hope though, for their sake and ours, they do find evidences." "So what do you want me to do, sir?" asked Jennifer, not sure exactly where she was standing in all this, nor what he expected her to do. "Continue working with them. I need eyes from within to know what they are doing and what they are up to. What this experience is showing of is that we need to monitor them closely. I thought with Syuvik as CO, who is known to be very prudent, they would be very meticulous and that's why I choose them. But I didn’t anticipated Syuvik would remain on the Soval and let his FO, Steven Matrix, and 2O, Tom Jackson, take all the decisions on the ground. Steven’s and Tom’s tactics are incredibly risky. That’s not what we needed in the situation… I was hoping you were with the team that did get in but that's the past. Now, what I want from you is to there when they return with the evidence. I want a complete report as quickly as possible. There are hard decisions that need to be made and I need all the information before taking them.’ (Reply None) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 2016) Tom had the Marine squad fan out and establish a protective perimeter. He knew the local forces would soon be arriving – the alert had been sounded. Using his tri-corder he scanned anything he had found. So far nothing was indicative of a third party. They had to find evidence (if it even existed) or they’d be in deep, deep trouble. Rounding a corner, he saw something oddly familiar. He scanned it and was informed it was a device not native to Quezal. HE made sure it wasn’t a booby trap and lift it up for a closer visual inspection. It seemed like something he had seen before while working a Ferengi trade vessel. “Commander Matrix, please come over here. I’ve located something of interest” Tom told his friend/ (Reply: Matrix) (Posted by Bill West) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Matrix, Day 10, 2020) Matrix moved out with the rest of the team, making their way toward the west building exit when he heard Tom. “Commander Matrix, please come over here. I’ve located something of interest." Steve made his way over to where Jackson was working all the while his head on a swivel looking for guards or anyone else. "What is it Tom?" he asked. Glancing over the interest that Tom pointed out, Steve quietly pulled out his tricorder and began to take readings. He manipulated the scanner to get more information. Looking at this tricorder display he paused and analyzed what was presented. "This can't be..." said Matrix barely speaking loud enough for anyone to hear. Matrix closed the tricorder device and turned to Tom. "Well...what would you like to do?" he asked Tom. The two discussed options for a few moments, then Matrix requested the team exit the facility in an orderly fashion. "Okay people, lets move out and head west. Tom would you take point? I want to fan out as we exit the building....move toward the agreed coordinates. We need to find that reactor." he continued. The teams moved out of the building without incident and Matrix was sure they were not seen. The trek west to the prearranged coordinates took longer than it would have normally would, but the team that didn't want to be discovered. He wanted to increase the distance from the government building as quickly as they could, hoping that their exit bought them additional time before the guards arrived back in force. They would find the building empty of any unauthorized personnel and everything as they left it. Or so he hoped. The guard would certainly face some level of scrutiny over vacating his post over one lone assailant. (Reply Jackson, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Jackson, Day 10, 2023) Tom wasn't sure exactly what he had found but decided he better seek the FO's advice. "Commander Matrix, please come over here. I've located something of interest." Steve made his way over to where Jackson was working all the while his head on a swivel looking for guards or anyone else. "What is it Tom?" he asked. Glancing over the interest that Tom pointed out, Steve quietly pulled out his tricorder and began to take readings. He manipulated the scanner to get more information. Looking at this tricorder display he paused and analyzed what was presented. "This can't be..." said Matrix barely speaking loud enough for anyone to hear. Tom nodded as his friend spoke. Years ago when he was Ops on a Ferengi trade ship he had seen something similar. Jackson prayed he was wrong but he doubted it. It was a list of components for a deadly powerful explosive. This might be a hint to what had caused the planetary explosion. The obvious thing to do was get the artifact back for shipboard analysis. Tom took point and they exited shortly. (posted by Bill) ----- (Quezal, Government Building, Signos, Day 10, 2025) Jessica moved with the team they made frequent stops to check for anything of intelligence value. “Commander Matrix, please come over here. I’ve located something of interest." Jackson called, and Matrix walked over to him they conversed in silent voices scanning what was found. It wasn't long before the team was moving again and Jessica made her way to Matrix's side. "What was found, sir.?" (Reply Matrix) (Posted by Matthew)