Compiled by Calvin Capps ========================================================================================================================= Mission: Piercing the Iron Curtain Mission Day: 3 Stardate: 2407.01.12 ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Holodeck 2, ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn, 0825) (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0835) (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 0836) (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0836) (USS Paladin, ACEO's office , ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn, 0838) (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0839) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 3, CEO, Lt. Cmndr Sarouk, 09:50) (USS Paladin - Holodeck 3 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 09:51) (USS Paladin, Holodeck 3, CEO, Lt. Cmndr Sarouk, 09:52) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1155) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 11:57) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Major Menelian - 1157) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller and Ships Counselor Talinna Winters - 1158) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CEO, Lt. Commander Sarouk, 1158) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, K'Palla, 1159) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1159) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1159) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - FO Lt Cmdr Capps - 1159) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1159) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Ensign Knightley - 1159) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath,1159) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Major Menelian - 1159) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Alura - 1159) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Micheal Ian O'Connor - 1159) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1200) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Max - 1200) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1200) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1200) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Counselor Talinna Winters, 1201) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:01) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Max - 1202) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1203) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Lt Cmndr Sarouk, 1203) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:04) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee, 12:04) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 12:05) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1207) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Ensign Knightley - 1207) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 12.08) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 12.09) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller- 12.15) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1216) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1217) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1217) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1218) (USS Paladin - Observation lounge- ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 1219) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Ensign Knightley - 1220) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1221) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1222) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar 12:22) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1223) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1223) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1225) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1225) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge – ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1226) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:26) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 12:26) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1227) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 12:28) (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CEO Lt. Cmndr Sarouk, 1228) (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:28) (USS Paladin, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 12:32) (USS Paladin - Medical Centre - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:40) (USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Lt Cmdr Capps & Ensign Knightley - 1245) (USS Paladin - MCO`s Office - MCO Conner Tirrel - 12:45) (USS Hope – Bridge – ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron – 1247) (USS Paladin - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1300) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1301) (USS Paladin - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1302) (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1303) (USS Paladin - Ready Room - Fo Lt Cmdr Capps - 1304) (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 1316) (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1317) (USS Paladin - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1320) (USS Paladin, Personal Quarters, ACSO Ens JG K'Palla, 1322) (USS Paladin - Deck 9, Christian's Quarters - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:22) (USS Paladin - Deck 8, Transporter Room 3 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:24) (USS Hope - Deck 6, Transporter Room 2 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:25) (USS Hope - Deck 1, Bridge - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:26) (USS Hope - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1327) (USS Hope - Bridge - Ensign Knightley - 1328) (USS Hope - Ready Room - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:28) (USS Hope - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1329) (USS Paladin, Personal Quarters, ACSO Ens JG K'Palla, 1330) (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1331) (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 13:36) (USS Paladin, Bridge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1336) (USS Hope - Main Engineering - CEO's Office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 13:37) (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1454) (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1500) (USS Palaldin - Deck 1 Corridor - 3rd Lt Phillip Hyde - 1500) (USS Paladin - Bridge - Lt Max - 1501) (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1502) (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1503) (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1505) (USS Paladin - Holodeck - Lt Max - 1600) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Holodeck 2, ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn,0825) "I don't make friends that easily, uncle," Alura told the analog. "And that my dear is of your own doing," the image chided her gently his brow furrowing in consternation. "You must learn to control your inner-turmoil. Learn to let your pah be at peace at all times." Alura sighed as she looked at the simulation. "You sure do talk like him," she mused. "Like whom, child." She shook her head. "Never mind." Alura watched the water in the small stream whisper quietly past her feet. The analog of her Uncle Simman looked upon her for a moment then at the water. "We're about to go into a battle," Alura said simply, after several moments. "Many are going to die." A great sigh heaved from her uncle's image. "How many times did I hear those words when the Cardassians held sway over our home-world. Many good men came to me seeking a blessing or just a word of encouragement. Some of them returned to express their gratitude. Some did not. Some could not." The holograph looked at Alura with such meaning that the Bajoran woman couldn't help but feel a little moved. "I want you to come back, child." This simulation of her uncle was so much like the real thing. Too much like him in some ways. It was a little unnerving to think how easy it would be to let this nonexistant person become an emotional crutch of a kind and that realization shocked her as if she'd just discovered some hidden weakness in her own soul. "Computer take away the Simman analog." The holograph of her uncle vanished. Standing up she straightened her uniform. "Back to the real world. Computer end program and exit." She turned as the archway appeared and opening the sound of opening doors resounded in the chamber. The garden scene dissolved around her leaving the black and white holo-grid in its place. (USS Paladin, ACEO's office , ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn, 0835) Once back in her office, she pulled her blonde tress behind her back and tied them off with a replicated band. Next she ordered up her morning drink, a blend of Bajoran bago root and Terran tea, then sat down to look over the computers work orders for any priority jobs that may be posted as she brought the steamy cup up to her lips. (posted by David) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0835) Kyp had decided to have another engineer look at the upgrades he made for the added rear deflector dish. He figured Ensign Rathyn would be a good choice, seeing as she helped find the weakness in that area in the first place. Her office door was open, and he walked in, knocking on the door, "Ensign Rathyn, do you have a minute?" (reply Rathyn) "I made some upgrades to the rear deflector dish that you and Lt. Brownlee added prior to your last engagement. Lt. Kerge and I discussed this, but I'd like you to look at it if you wouldn't mind." ~Hmm, a Cardassian. This will be interesting.~ (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 0836) "Ensign Rathyn, do you have a minute?" Alura half-turned from her monitor and beheld the newcomer. "Engineers don't have spare minutes we just crowd things in where we can," she replied with a placid attempt at humor, her usually somber expression masking it. "I made some upgrades to the rear deflector dish that you and Lt. Brownlee added prior to your last engagement," Durron continued. "Lt. Kerge and I discussed this, but I'd like you to look at it if you wouldn't mind." ~Hmm, a Cardassian. This will be interesting.~ She rose from her computer station, disposed the remainder of her drink and moved toward the door. "Let's check it out," she said plaintively. She recognized the subtle catch in his manner indicating he'd 'noticed' the unsavory part of her parentage. The telltale brow and neck ridges she'd inherited from her Cardassian grandfather didn't dominate her otherwise Bajoran features but could hardly be missed by the casual observer. ~Yeah, I'm one of those hybrids. Get over it.~ she fumed quietly. (Reply: Durron) "Call me 'Lura, if you'd like," she told him, wondering if they would be on friendly terms with each other or just professional. She could take it either way. (posted by David) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0836) "Ensign Rathyn, do you have a minute?" Alura half-turned from her monitor and beheld the newcomer. "Engineers don't have spare minutes we just crowd things in where we can," she replied with a placid attempt at humor, her usually somber _expression masking it. "I made some upgrades to the rear deflector dish that you and Lt. Brownlee added prior to your last engagement," Durron continued. "Lt. Kerge and I discussed this, but I'd like you to look at it if you wouldn't mind." ~Hmm, a Cardassian. This will be interesting.~ She rose from her computer station, disposed the remainder of her drink and moved toward the door. "Let's check it out," she said plaintively. Kyp winced, knowing that she had seen his initial reaction to meeting a Bajoran/Cardassian hybrid. He didn't hate them or dislike them, it was just an interesting combination to come across to him. It was surprising, but Kyp needed to make up for that face he had made at first, "Great...Ensign, It's very simple, actually. I just redid the power grid on it to use more power efficiently. Also, it's just a little more durable in battle." "Call me 'Lura, if you'd like," she told him. ~'Lura. Hmm, guess we'll be able to have a friendly relationship here~ "Sure, 'Lura. That's fine. I'm Kyp. What do you think of these changes?" (posted by Ben) =========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, ACEO's office , ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn, 0838) "Call me 'Lura, if you'd like," she told him, noticing the subtle shift in his manner. She'd seen it before. Some people, once they get past the shock of her obvious resemblance to Bajor's most hated enemies, were at least civil to her. She was not quick to make friends, but tended to warm to engineers quicker than anyone else. "Sure, 'Lura. That's fine. I'm Kyp. What do you think of these changes?" She took the PADD and returned to her seat. Reading the specs she touched a button that allowed the door to close and sat down. "Oh, help yourself to the replicator by the way," she said after a brief pause, then went back to reading. (posted by David) =========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - ACEO's office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0839) "Call me 'Lura, if you'd like," she told him, noticing the subtle shift in his manner. She'd seen it before. Some people, once they get past the shock of her obvious resemblance to Bajor's most hated enemies, were at least civil to her. She was not quick to make friends, but tended to warm to engineers quicker than anyone else. "Sure, 'Lura. That's fine. I'm Kyp. What do you think of these changes?" She took the PADD and returned to her seat. Reading the specs she touched a button that allowed the door to close and sat down. "Oh, help yourself to the replicator by the way," she said after a brief pause, then went back to reading. "Thank you," Kyp replied. He stepped over to the replicator and got a root beer. He smiled, savoring the drink. It had taken him a while to teach the computer how to properly make root beer, but it was great now. After he and thought she'd read most of the report, he pointed out a few key points. "The EPS grid was very innefficient of power consumption, so I totally redesigned it. I made a few other minor improvements, but that's the basis of it." He waited a few more moments before speaking up again, "So, what do you think?" (reply Rathyn) "Hey," a thought occured to him, "do you know anything of our battle plan for fighting in that gravity well?" (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Holodeck 3, CEO, Lt. Cmndr Sarouk, 09:50) "Reporting as ordered." Sarouk toward the new officer, who he recognized as Ensign Brownlee. "Lt. Max sent you in his stead, I assume," Sarouk said. "Lt. Max is on duty, and could not make it at present. I have come instead. What do you need me to do?" Brownlee replied. "Quite simply,"Sarouk said, moving over to the CONN station, "You will pilot the Paladin through the simulated battle using the modified engineering subroutines then critique them at the end of the simulation. Any suggestions you might have to make them more efficient or easier to utilize during a combat situation." (Reply Brownlee) Sarouk looked over to K'Palla. "Ensign, you monitor the sensor feed from the science station during the simulation if you notice any abnormalities or any incongruities in the data please mark that section to be reviewed at the end of the simulation. I will be doing likewise at the engineering station for engine and over all power out put," Sarouk explained, "Any questions?" (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Holodeck 3 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 09:51) "Lt. Max is on duty, and could not make it at present. I have come instead. What do you need me to do?" Christian asked. "Quite simply,"Sarouk replied, "You will pilot the Paladin through the simulated battle using the modified engineering subroutines then critique them at the end of the simulation. Any suggestions you might have to make them more efficient or easier to utilize during a combat situation." "Alright, no problem, sir," Christian said, going over to the CONN station. "Ensign," Sarouk said to K'Palla, "you monitor the sensor feed from the science station during the simulation if you notice any abnormalities or any incongruities in the data please mark that section to be reviewed at the end of the simulation. I will be doing likewise at the engineering station for engine and over all power out put. Any questions?" "None, sir," Christian said, activating the panel before him. (posted by Spencer) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Holodeck 3, CEO, Lt. Cmndr Sarouk, 09:52) "Sir, what other component will they provide for the simulation?" K'Palla asked. "This is a simulation to test modified engineering subroutines tying the ships sensors to the CONN station," Sarouk explained. "This modification will enable the ships computer to detect and offer possible course corrections around gravimetric istortions likely to be encountered around Star Base 234. However, the officer at the CONN will still make the final decision in course change. Therefore, it is prudent to get the input of a CONN officer in case there are any adjustments that need be made." "Of course." K'Palla nodded. Another ensign made his presence known, "Reporting as ordered." "Lt. Max sent you in his stead, I assume," Sarouk said. "Lt. Max is on duty, and could not make it at present. I have come instead. What do you need me to do?" replied the ensign. "Quite simply,"Sarouk said, moving over to the CONN station, "You will pilot the Paladin through the simulated battle using the modified engineering subroutines then critique them at the end of the simulation. Any suggestions you might have to make them more efficient or easier to utilize during a combat situation." "Alright, no problem, sir," Christian said, going over to the CONN station. Sarouk looked over to K'Palla. "Ensign, you monitor the sensor feed from the science station during the simulation if you notice any abnormalities or any incongruities in the data please mark that section to be reviewed at the end of the simulation. I will be doing likewise at the engineering station for engine and over all power out put," Sarouk explained, "Any questions?" "None, sir," Christian said, activating the panel before him. "No, sir." stated K'Palla, as she moved to the Science Station and activated the console. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1155) Eva entered the Observation Lounge five minuets before the appointed time for the senior officers meeting. She made her way around the large conference table to the replicator and ordered herself a large glass of iced tea. She then headed to her seat at the head of the table setting both the tea and the PADD she had brought with her down. She then moved over to the large clear duranium wall and watched the stars streaking by as the Paladin rushed towards it's meeting with Star Base 234 and either victory or death. ~The point of no return is almost upon us. 36 hours from now it will all be over. We will either have archived victory or we will be dead.~ Eva thought as she watched the stars. Then she heard the doors open and turned to see who had arrived. (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 11:57) Kerge entered the Obs lounge with thoughts of battle on his mind, finally he hoped that they would be seeing a meeting that would turn out to be a prerequisite to the initiations of their goal, namely the conquest & securing of starbase 234. The Klingon Security chief looked about at the assembled officers momentarilly, nodding to one or two of them as he did so, then he made for the nearest available chair to sit heavily upon it before folding his arms across his chest in readiness for the start of the meeting. (posted by ALan) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Major Menelian - 1157) Menelian stepped inside the observation lounge, complete with PADD's in hand and no-nonsense attitude shown on his face. He quickly took his seat and folded his hands in front of him, not making conversation and not particularly caring if anyone tried. Jenna followed almost on his heels, the same basic look on her face as she took the closest seat to Straton that she could find. Menelian looked over at her for a moment and restrained a sneer, Vulcan logic wouldn't get them very far when the photon torpedoes started launching. Still, one didn't start a race-sneering war while in the presence of the Captain. He'd learned long ago to control his impulses against Tellarites and Vulcans. Against most races, in fact, none quite measured up to his own self-image, and the image of his people. .. nevermind that he was born in neutral territory, on the 'planet of galactic peace' He looked around, taking measure of all the officers, as he usually did. Wondering which would crack when the battles became serious, when the war began in earnest. Musing on which would be decorated, which would be struck stupid, which would actually show a bit of worth. It was an interesting mental game, especially given that its purpose was deadly serious. Yes, indeed, this was an interesting time. (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller and Ships Counselor Talinna Winters - 1158) Jared walked into the room with a whistle on his lips (but discreetly squelched of course), a PADD cradled in his right hand and Talinna on his left arm. The Captain was there of course as was Ensign O'Connor. Jared nodded to each with a smile which the Captain didn't return of course and took a seat near Mr. O'Connor and set his PADD on the table before him as his wife took the one on the other side still holding his hand. A Klingon entered the room soon after announcing herself as K'Palla of the House of Da'Gor. Jared hummed a bit as she walked over and shook Michaels hand and he gave her a welcoming smile. Talinna however stood up and held out her hand to the new ACSO. "I am Counselor Talinna Winters K'Palla, it is a pleasure to meet you." (posted by Charles) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CEO, Lt. Commander Sarouk, 1158) Sarouk entered the room carrying a PADD that contained the latest departmental readiness report. He looked around the room before picking a seat near the middle of the table. He placed the PADD on the table surface then sat down and placed his hand before him and waited patiently for the meeting to begin. (posted by Wes) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, K'Palla, 1159) K'Palla entered the Observation Lounge for the meeting and found that she wasn't the first to arrive. Another ensign was already at the table, one that she thought she recognized when she first reported on the bridge. She first addressed the Captain. "nuqneH, HoD!" she said with a nod and a smile. Then sat down next to the ensign. "I am K'Palla, of the House of Da'Gor! I am Assistant Chief Science Officer!" she said, extending her hand. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1159) Michael smiled and nodded to Doctors Keller and Winters as the walked in an took a seat then watched as the Klingon that he saw earlier on the bridge walked in said something in Klingon to the Captain then sat down next to him. "I am K'Palla, of the House of Da'Gor! I am Assistant Chief Science Officer!" she said, extending her hand. Michael took her hand in a firm grip, "I'm Michael O'Connor, Chief of Operations. It's a pleasure to meet you," Michael said with a friendly smile to his shipmate, who was only three days newer than he was. (Reply K'Palla) Lt. Winters then walked up and introduced herself to K'Palla. Michael gave the Doctor a friendly smile of his own, not having actually met Doctor Keller's wife and Ships Counsellor. (posted by Patrick) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1159) Kyp entered the Observation Lounge behind a few other officers he couldn't see before the door closed. He took a moment to rub his side before he went in. He took a nasty hit to his right side the previous night in the holodeck in that training session with Lt. Kerge and Captain Straton. As he entered the room, he saw Dr. Keller and Lt. Waters sitting at the other side of the table, Captain Straton at the head of the table, and Ensign O'Conner shaking hands with a new female Klingon officer wearing a blue uniform. "Good afternoon, all," he said as he took a seat in about the middle of the table. (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - FO Lt Cmdr Capps - 1159) Calvin walked in the observation lounge along with Ensign Rathyn. "It will be voluntarily of course. Think about it during the meeting," Calvin said to Alura as he walked into the room even further. (reply David) He looked around the room and saw most of the crew had already entered. He walked passed everyone with a PADD and his hand, and a plan in his mind. He wasn't for sure yet if the Captain was going to approve, but the ship's computer gave him an increase of 3 percent on the successful rate. He made it down to the end of the table, and looked at the Captain. "Captain," Lt Cmdr Capps said as a way of saying hello. He then took his seat next to the Captain. He waited for the rest of the crew to enter as he thought hard about the plan him and Lt. Brownlee had worked on all night. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1159) Kyp saw Lt. Commander Sarouk sit down at the table and took up a seat next to him, "Good afternoon, Commander. How are you?" (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Ensign Knightley - 1159) The beautiful Ensign walked into the room with her back straight, and her feet flat on the floor. Her uniform in perfect unison with her body. Elizabeth quickly scanned the room to see who was already there, and who wasn't. She also looked for a seat. Ensign Knightley was happy to see that there was no one seating next Chief O'Conner. She walked over to the chair and seated quickly. She wasn't the Chief in the department anymore, but it hasn't been long since she lost that job. She did not feel it was necessary for her to be at the meeting, but beneficial. "Hello Chief O'Conner, I hope you don't mind that I came," she said as she sat in the chair. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, 1st Lt. Stephiea Rath,1159) Steph walked into the Observation Lounge having come directly from the fighter holo-deck. She'd sent the morning drilling her squadron, the Fighting Whatever's, along with Shark Bait for the upcoming battle. She moved over and took a seat next to Major Menelian. She set the PADD she was carrying on the table top, then pushed it over in front of Menelian. It contained the results of the simulations she had spent all morning running. ~We did pretty good over all. But, as always, there is room for improvement.~ She thought as she looked around at all the other officers, noticing some new faces. (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Major Menelian - 1159) Menelian took the PADD pro-offered to him by his XO with a nod and scrolled through it, quickly. He noted a few things to work on afterwards and was about to point them out when the Captain grabbed everyones attention. "Alright, This will be our final meeting before the upcoming battle. In less that 24 hours we will have engaged Star Base 234 and it's supporting forces. First, I want departmental readiness reports." He listened with detached interest about the deflector dish and such. Anything that would help in combat was interesting to him, but some things more then others. Once that was done, he rapped his own knuckles on the table. "The Fighters stand ready, the CAP is up and half the squad is on 5 minute standby alert. The rest on fifteen. We will ALL be standing on 5 minute alert starting in..." he looked at the chronometer, "Seven hours." (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Alura - 1159) "It will be voluntarily of course. Think about it during the meeting," Calvin said to Alura as they walked into the observation lounge. Alura listened to the brief synopsis of the commander's plan with growing interest. "On the face of it, sounds like a good idea, sir," she told him. "Consider me volunteered." The pair split as they came into the room where a number of the department heads and assistants already sat. Alura made her way to a chair, PADD in hand, and waited quietly mulling over Capps' proposal. (posted by David) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Micheal Ian O'Connor - 1159) "I am K'Palla, of the House of Da'Gor! I am Assistant Chief Science Officer!" she said, extending her hand. Michael took her hand in a firm grip, "I'm Michael O'Connor, Chief of Operations. It's a pleasure to meet you," Michael said with a friendly smile to his shipmate. "Chief of Operations?" said K'Palla. She returned the smile then promptly slaughtered the pronunciation of his name. "An honor, My-kill Oak-honor, your father must be very proud!" "He actually doesn't know yet. I wasn't expecting to be chief when I transferred on board, and due to preparations for the battle, I haven't been able to send a message yet. I hope he is though." Michael said, also making a mental note to send messages to his sisters too, just to make sure they were all right. Then another woman approached her with her hand extended. "I am Counselor Talinna Winters, K'Palla, it is a pleasure to meet you." Michael politely stopped listening as the two women conversed, as he watched more people arrive. While waiting for the meeting to start, K'Palla leaned over and whispered a question to O'Connor. "Oak-honor, how are the spirits in Ten-Forward? I have yet to sample them, but plan on it later!" she said hoping he might ask to join her. "I only transferred on board the Paladin three days ago myself, and with all the work to do, getting ready for battle, I haven't really had time to go an try. Assuming I'm not chained to my office, do you mind if I join you when you go?" Michael said, figuring it was time to start making friends. (Reply K'Palla) Michael looked around when he heard the door open once again, and saw Ensign Knightly walk in, looking rather spectacular. "Hello Chief O'Conner, I hope you don't mind that I came," she said as she sat in the chair. "Not at all ensign, you still know the department better than I do, and it's best that at least two of us from the department are at the meeting, just in case." Michael said with a friendly smile. "Ensign Knightly, allow me to introduce Ensign K'Palla, the new Assistant Chief Science Officer," Michael said, leaning back slightly so the two ensigns could see each other around him. "Ensign K'Palla, this is Ensign Knightly, my right hand in the department, with out her, I would probably be lost." Michael said with a smile for each of the women. (Reply K'Palla, Knightly) Just then the meeting started. "Alright," Eva said, getting everyone's attention. "This will be our final meeting before the upcoming battle. In less that 24 hours we will have engaged Star Base 234 and it's supporting forces. First, I want departmental readiness reports." Michael didn't go first, and waiting for a break between reports before he jumped in with his own. "Sir, Operations is running at peak right now. Power systems for Cargo bay three and the Medical Labs, have been set to 'Medical Restricted' at Dr. Keller's request. A full stress test simulation has been done on the Power systems, looking for any weak spots that might appear during the battle, especially when we get close to the gravity well. I be coordinating with Engineering to get any weak spots shored up prior to contact. I am also in the process of altering all of the counter intrusion programs in the computer system, altering them from Starfleet standards, so that we can keep any hackers out of our system during the battle. Operations will be ready for the battle sir, no doubt about it." Michael said, confidently. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1200) "I am K'Palla, of the House of Da'Gor! I am Assistant Chief Science Officer!" she said, extending her hand. Michael took her hand in a firm grip, "I'm Michael O'Connor, Chief of Operations. It's a pleasure to meet you," Michael said with a friendly smile to his shipmate. "Chief of Operations?" said K'Palla, definitely impressed with the fellow ensign's position, as well as with his strength. She returned the smile then promptly slaughtered the pronounciation of his name, albeit not on purpose. "An honor, My-kill Oak-honor, your father must be very proud!" (reply O'Connor iyw) Then another woman approached her with her hand extended. "I am Counselor Talinna Winters, K'Palla, it is a pleasure to meet you." K'Palla shook hands and replied with a smile. "Thank you, Counselor." She thought better at trying her name. "It is also a pleasure to meet you. I believe I will need to meet with you at some point for an evaluation?" The Klingon recalled from the Academy that it was standard practice for the Counselor to do a pysch _eval upon arriving onboard. (reply Winters) "Good afternoon, all," said another ensign as he took a seat in about the middle of the table. From his uniform, he looked like he was from Engineering. K'Palla simply nodded and smiled as she sat down. As more of the senior oficers were filing in, the Klingon woman began feeling more comfortable among them. While waiting for the meeting to start, K'Palla leaned over and whispered a question to O'Connor. "Oak-honor, how are the spirits in Ten-Forward? I have yet to sample them, but plan on it later!" she said hoping he might ask to join her. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Max - 1200) Max stepped into the room with confidence as he always did. He also held a PADD. It was comfortably placed in his right plam as he gripped it with his fingers. There weren't many seat left as he was one of the last people to arrive at the meeting. He had hoped to be earlier, but he has gotten so used t o being late. He took the first seat he came upon to look at the other officers around the table. He seen an officer or two that he didn't really notice. It seemed to him that he was taken out of the loop sometimes. He was fairly sure he would eventually meet the officers. He knew the meeting would start soon so he stopped day dreaming and paid attention to what was going around him. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1200) "Alright," Eva said, getting everyone's attention. "This will be our final meeting before the upcoming battle. In less that 24 hours we will have engaged Star Base 234 and it's supporting forces. First, I want departmental readiness reports." She leaned back to see who would go first, before she starting calling them by name. (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1200) "Alright," Eva said, getting everyone's attention. "This will be our final meeting before the upcoming battle. In less that 24 hours we will have engaged Star Base 234 and it's supporting forces. First, I want departmental readiness reports." Kyp turned to Sarouk, "Sir, while I was working with Lt. Kerge, I managed to increase the effectiveness of the deflector dish added by Ensign Rathyn and Lt. Brownlee in the previous mission. Would you like me to report that?" (reply Sarouk, I'm assuming a yes) Kyp raised his hand to draw the attention of the other seated crewmembers. As he was about to speak, he got nervous and felt a jolt in his stomach. He closed his eyes, ~Why now? Why did I have to get squemish now?~ He then remembered that there were telepaths in the room and noticed that everyone was looking at him expectantly...at least that's the way it seemed to him. He pulled himself together and gave his report, "Lt. Kerge and I have managed to increase the effectiveness of the aft deflector dish added by Ensign Rathyn and Lt. Brownlee in our last battle. It is stronger and more stable now. That's all I have to offer." After sitting back in his chair and looked to Sarouk for approval (posted by ben) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Counselor Talinna Winters, 1201) The Klingon female returened her handshake with gusto before replying. "Thank you, Counselor, it is also a pleasure to meet you. I believe I will need to meet with you at some point for an evaluation?" "You are correct," Talinna answered with a smile . "I have gotten somewhat behind on the evaluations which are necessary as you stated but I would like to get together with you in my office when you have time." She looked about the room at the new faces. "And with the others when available. Until then K'Palla good day." (Reply: any) Having met K'Palla Talinna returned to her seat beside her adoring husband and steeled herself for what was to come. (posted by Charles) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:01) After the CO had been given status reports from two other officers, Kerge offered his own report also. "Security is as ready as it ever will be, there ar no concerns", said Kerge, "I am currently working with the StratOps to solve a problem with the minefield but I am confident we will succeed in that", he added. The meeting then continued with the next in line to offer a report. (posted by Alan) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Max - 1202) The reports flowed easily from one officer to the next. Max listened intently to them all as he tried to remember each of the reports. He wrote notes down on to his PADD every now and again. The Security Chief finished talking, and Max decided to go next. "Thanks to the help of Lt Cmdr Sarouk, Ensign K'Palla, and Ensign Brownlee navigation during the battle will be much easier. But I believe as much practice that can be crammed in to the simulation is needed." (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1203) K'Palla returned the handshake with gusto before replying. "Thank you, Counselor, it is also a pleasure to meet you. I believe I will need to meet with you at some point for an evaluation?" "You are correct," Talinna answered with a smile . "I have gotten somewhat behind on the evaluations which are necessary as you stated but I would like to get together with you in my office when you have time." She looked about the room at the new faces. "And with the others when available. Until then K'Palla good day." "jIyaj, I will contact your office for an appointment!" nodded the ensign, then returned to her seat. K'Palla noticed another Klingon enter the lounge, and from his uniform, he looked like he was Chief of Security. She made eye contact and nodded to him in greeting. He sat heavily in the nearest chair and crossed his arms. Apparently, the man would rather face the enemy than face his fellow officers in a meeting. ~~ How so like Father! ~~ she thought. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, Lt Cmndr Sarouk, 1203) "All ships systems are operating within established parameters," Sarouk said, his deep bass voice carrying easily. "However, I have been experimenting with altering the geometry of the Paladins warp field to allow us to maintain warp speed longer once we enter the gravity well. So far, my simulations have rendered limited success. If we can maintained warp speed, even for a brief period, longer it would bring us much closer to the star base before the on set of hostilities. Could even allow us to bypass an obstacle existing in real space. Such as the before mentioned mine field." Eva's brow rose, and she looked at Lt. Brownlee. "Lt," Eva said, "Do you have anyone who could work with Commander Sarouk on that? Even if we can maintain warp speeds for a few extra seconds that would greatly improve our position at the start of the battle." (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:04) Sitting in his chair in the Obs lounge, Kerge seemed detached from proceedings, his mind seemed elsewhere & it was only brought back to the here & now by the stares of an Ensign he had not yet met before. She had nodded briefly as he`d entered, now she seemed intent on the occasional glance in his direction, an act which annoyed the big Klingon no end. "qaSuj'a' Ensign", said Kerge abruptly leaning forwards in his chair as he spoke. (Reply K'palla) "Then why do you stare so!", said Kerge reverting to human speech before reaching up to his head with one hand. "jlwuQ", said Kerge as he rubbed at his temple. He then sat back into his chair with the thought of seeing a doctor sometime after the meeting firmly ensconsed in his mind. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee, 12:04) "All ships systems are operating within established parameters," Sarouk said, his deep bass voice carrying easily. "However, I have been experimenting with altering the geometry of the Paladins warp field to allow us to maintain warp speed longer once we enter the gravity well. So far, my simulations have rendered limited success. If we can maintained warp speed, even for a brief period, longer it would bring us much closer to the star base before the on set of hostilities. Could even allow us to bypass an obstacle existing in real space. Such as the before mentioned mine field." The captain looked contemplative, then looked over at Joran, who was still getting comfortable in his chair as he had slipped in just before the meeting started. "Lt," Eva said, "Do you have anyone who could work with Commander Sarouk on that? Even if we can maintain warp speeds for a few extra seconds that would greatly improve our position at the start of the battle." Joran stood. "Yes," he said, "Ensign Coviello is a master at warp field manipulation. I could have him report to you immediately, commander." (posted by Spencer) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 12:05) As K'Palla stole another glance at the Klingon Lieutenant, he leaned forward and spoke to her. "qaSuj'a' Ensign", said Kerge abruptly leaning forwards in his chair as he spoke. "ghobe', Sogh!" she replied simply, but firmly. She showed the respect to his rank, but not towards his male ego. "Then why do you stare so!", said Kerge reverting to human speech before reaching up to his head with one hand. "jlwuQ", said Kerge as he rubbed at his temple, then sitting back in his seat, visibly uncomfortable. K'Palla glanced back at the Klingon male and faked a pout, batting large doe eyes at him. "Awwww, qaQoS!" She then looked away, letting out an audible hmph, but showing a wry grin. Any male Klingon who would openly complain about a headache to another Klingon, especially a female that he doesn't even know, is truly a weak one in her opinion. ~~ I only hope that I don't get so soft! ~~ she thought and trained her eyes on My-kill Oak-honor, sitting next to her, while waiting for the meeting to start. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1207) Eva listened to each department head, and in some cases their assistants too, give a report on their progress. She made a few suggestions here and there, but remained silent letting her officers speak. When silence finally fell again, Eva looked at Command Capps. "Commander Capps and Lt. Brownlee have been working on the possibility of using one or both of the captured enemy ships as a type of 'Trojan horse' to allow the fleet to bypass the cloaked mine field surrounding the star base. Commander," Eva said, before leaning back in her chair once more. (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Ensign Knightley - 1207) "An honor to meet you!" smiled the Klingon, shaking the woman's hand. "It is nice to meet you as well Ensign K'Palla." Elizabeth extended her hand to shake the Klingons. "I will be going to Ten-Forward after my shift is over. Perhaps you can join Oak-honor and I?" "If I find my self available I would enjoy coming. Thank you." The meeting began so she leaned back into her chair. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 12.08) The First Officer was proud of the crew. He was proud that they were all very organized. That all of them were prepared, and ready. He was honored to serve with such a crew. The department reports were finished, and it was now time to move forward. "Commander Capps and Lt. Brownlee have been working on the possibility of using one or both of the captured enemy ships as a type of 'Trojan horse' to allow the fleet to bypass the cloacked mine field surrounding the starbase, Commander." Eva said, before leaning back in her chair once more. "Thank you Captain." Calvin adjusted himself in his chair, and scooted his body to the edge of it which in turn made himself a lot closer to the table. "Our plan only uses one of the captured ship. We believe the best ship to go with is the USS Hope. Simply because the Commanding Officer of that ship has been most cooperative with us, and also because that ship had the ranking officer on it between the two. I believe that you will be able to use the second ship as an extra for our fleet. If the Starbase ask about the second ship, then we will convince them that it has already fallen in line with its new group." Calvin stated to the entire crew as he looked around the table from one person to the other. He looked at Commander Rulestaad and the Captain at the last bit of his report. Lt Cmdr Capps looked around the room, and it seemed everyone was ready for more. Calvin stood from his chair, quickly moved over to the monitor on the wall. He stood beside of it so that the monitor was in clear view. He ran his fingers over a few of the colored buttons. An accurate model of the starbase appeared along with the mine field that was discovered. "Since we don't know how the Starbase will allow our ship to pass the mine field, we had to come up with something that would cover all possibilities. We take the Hope toward the Starbase and minefield. When close enough we will transmit the access codes to the starbase that we have covered and also have been assured by Lt. Cmdr Williamson that those are the correct codes." "At that time they will more than likely want a visual. We have adapted Commander Rulestaads suggestion with this. As she put it in the ready room we will be making a few basic changes to the screen processing to make us look like the commanding officers of the Hope." He continued on with no _expression. He simply laid his plan down. "Once passed this point we come to probably the hardest part of this plan. While passing through we will be transporting small de-activated magnets to each mine we pass. Once we are passed the mine field, we will activate the magnets. That will trigger them." As he spoke the display behind him followed through smoothly with his report. "At this time the mines will explode causing other nearby mines to explode as well. According to our calculation it will eliminate over 60 percent of the mines. A window will then be open for our fleet to attack." Calvin walked back to his chair and took his seat once more. "Thanks to Ensign Rathyn we have figured a way to transport the magnets on to the mines with out it being noticed. All proximity mines send out a pulse signal to other mines in a given parameter, and use gravitonic stabilizers to avoid drifting into one another." He took a quick pause, and then continued. "A transporter beam could be re-modulated to copy the pattern of the pulse signal which would allow the ship to beam some kind of devices that would disrupt the gravitonic emissions thus causing them to crash into one another. If the transporter beam is done just right it would look like one of the automatic signals." Calvin had to read every once in a while from the PADD with the information on it. "Now if everything is successfully at this point then the Hope and the crew on it will be defenseless and a surprise will be over. The fleet will need to enter immediately for surprise purposes, and our safety." Calvin looked around the room as a way to say that he was finished. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 12.09) "I am K'Palla, of the House of Da'Gor! I am Assistant Chief Science Officer!" she said, extending her hand. Michael took her hand in a firm grip, "I'm Michael O'Connor, Chief of Operations. It's a pleasure to meet you," Michael said with a friendly smile. "Chief of Operations?" said K'Palla. She returned the smile then promptly slaughtered the pronunciation of his name. "An honor, My-kill Oak-honor, your father must be very proud!" "He actually doesn't know yet. I wasn't expecting to be chief when I transferred on board, and due to preparations for the battle, I haven't been able to send a message yet. I hope he is though." Michael said. While waiting for the meeting to start, K'Palla leaned over and whispered a question to O'Connor. "Oak-honor, how are the spirits in Ten-Forward? I have yet to sample them, but plan on it later!" she said hoping he might ask to join her. "I only transferred on board the Paladin three days ago myself, and with all the work to do, getting ready for battle, I haven't really had time to go an try. Assuming I'm not chained to my office, do you mind if I join you when you go?" Michael said, figuring it was time to start making friends. "I thought you would never ask!" K'Palla smiled back warmly. Michael looked around when he heard the door open once again, and saw Ensign Knightly walk in, looking rather spectacular. "Hello Chief O'Conner, I hope you don't mind that I came," she said as she sat in the chair. "Not at all ensign, you still know the department better than I do, and it's best that at least two of us from the department are at the meeting, just in case." Michael said with a friendly smile. "Ensign Knightly, allow me to introduce Ensign K'Palla, the new Assistant Chief Science Officer," Michael said, leaning back slightly so the two ensigns could see each other around him. "Ensign K'Palla, this is Ensign Knightly, my right hand in the department, with out her, I would probably be lost." Michael said with a smile for each of the women. "An honor to meet you!" smiled the Klingon, shaking the woman's hand. "I will be going to Ten-Forward after my shift is over. Perhaps you can join Oak-honor and I?" (reply Knightly) The meeting started and department reports were given, inwardly pleased with the recognition given by Lt Max. K'Palla listened intently to the reports and to the plan that the Captain and First Officer laid before them. It seemed simple enough, though the "Trojan Horse" reference was lost to her. While at the Academy, the only "Trojans" she knew of were of Terran origin and they were only used for parmac. Somehow, she missed the connection. Instinctively, she raised her hand. "Sirs, if you are in need of volunteers to crew the captured vessel, then I wish to volunteer for that duty. Once the trap is sprung, I feel I could be of more use there!" There was a hint of excitement in her voice. If she died in combat, it would make her father proud. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - CMO, Dr. Jared Keller- 12.15) Th presentation was precise and their plan neat, Commander Capps began winding it down. "Now if everything is successfully at this point then the Hope and the crew on it will be defenseless and a surprise will be over. The fleet will need to enter immediately for surprise purposes, and our safety." When he had finished he looked about the room, Jared too the opportunity to ask something that was nagging at him. "Commander those on this mission are going to be put in a very dangerous situation, who have you decided to send from Medical?" (Reply: Calvin) "Considering this is not too far removed from a suicide mission," Jared insisted. "You're going to need a Doctor along." (posted by Charles) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1216) "Commander those on this mission are going to be put in a very dangerous situation, who have you decided to send from Medical?" Calvin looked at the Dr. "Just as you say Dr. This is a dangerous situation. I don't want to order anyone on this mission. We will be tacking volunteers." Calvin looked around the room at the other officers. "Some of you may want to go, but remember the Paladin will still need a good amount of its crew. If the Captain proves of the plan he will ultimately say who will be going." "Considering this is not too far removed from a suicide mission," Jared insisted. "You're going to need a Doctor along." "Thank you Doctor. Your request will be considered." (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1217) Eva had sat silently as Capps outlined their plan. First K'Palla volunteered and then it seemed so did Dr. Keller. Eva raised her hand, getting everyone's attention before speaking. "I'm sorry Ensign," She said, looking at K'Palla. "But I am going to need you on the Paladin. Same with Dr. Keller, Commander Sarouk, and Lt. Kerge." She looked at each of them in turn. "There will be plenty of opportunity for combat here on the Paladin. They will need an Operations officer and a Tactical officer if any wish to volunteer. Dr. Keller, if a junior member of the medical staff wishes to volunteer that would be acceptable, but your services will be needed here in sickbay. Ensign K'Palla, I will need you on the Bridge at the science station. Commander Sarouk in Main Engineering, and Lt. Kerge at the tactical station. We are going into a major engagement here. I can't strip the Paladin of key officers for this operation. Please keep that in mind." (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1217) Kyp had watched a few officers volunteer for the assignment. He was seeing who would volunteer before he did. He didn't want to waste time volunteering if he wasn't needed. He hated when people jumped up to look dedicated when they knew they weren't needed. "I'm sorry Ensign," Eva said, looking at K'Palla. "But I am goingvto need you on the Paladin. Same with Dr. Keller, Commander Sarouk, and Lt. Kerge." She looked at each of them in turn. "There will be plenty of opportunity for combat here on the Paladin. They will need an Operations officer and a Tactical officer if any wish to volunteer. Dr. Keller, if a junior member of the medical staff wishes to volunteer that would be acceptable, but your services will be needed here in sickbay. Ensign K'Palla, I will need you on the Bridge at the science station. Commander Sarouk in Main Engineering, and Lt. Kerge at the tactical station. We are going into a major engagement here. I can't strip the Paladin of key officers for this operation. Please keep that in mind." Kyp raised his arm some to gain the Captain's attention, "Sir, would you require any engineers on this mission? If I am not needed on the Paladin, I could go." He turned to Lt. Commander Sarouk, "If that is alright with you, sir?" (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1218) Instinctively, K'Palla raised her hand. "Sirs, if you are in need of volunteers to crew the captured vessel, then I wish to volunteer for that duty. Once the trap is sprung, I feel I could be of more use there!" "I'm sorry Ensign," She said, looking at K'Palla. "But I am going to need you on the Paladin. Same with Dr. Keller, Commander Sarouk, and Lt. Kerge." She looked at each of them in turn. "There will be plenty of opportunity for combat here on the Paladin. They will need an Operations officer and a Tactical officer if any wish to volunteer. Dr. Keller, if a junior member of the medical staff wishes to volunteer that would be acceptable, but your services will be needed here in sickbay. Ensign K'Palla, I will need you on the Bridge at the science station. Commander Sarouk in Main Engineering, and Lt. Kerge at the tactical station. We are going into a major engagement here. I can't strip the Paladin of key officers for this operation. Please keep that in mind." Obvious disappointment ran across the Klingon's face, but she realized her warrior instincts were getting in the way of her required duties. She felt a slight swell of salvaged pride when Captain Starton considered her as a key officer. "Yes sir." said the ensign, looking at the Captain with resolve and nodded in agreement with her decision. "I understand." (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation lounge- ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 1219) Kyp raised his arm some to gain the Captain's attention, "Sir, would you require any engineers on this mission? If I am not needed on the Paladin, I could go." He turned to Lt. Commander Sarouk, "If that is alright with you, sir?" "You may need to send in more than one good engineer, captain," Alura spoke up, showing little emotion but aware of the obvious conceit in her statement. "I've already told Commander Capps I'll volunteer to be one of the Trojans." She knew of the Terran legend of the Trojan Horse through her late husband. Be that as it may, the inherent boldness of the plan rather reminded her of a related experience her mother had had during the Occupation. (posted by David) =========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Ensign Knightley - 1220) Elizabeth ,like everyone else, sat in their respected chairs listening to the First Officer describing the trojan horse plan. She was quite surprised to hear about it. The night before Calvin did not tell her anything about it. She couldn't believe that the person she loved was possibly about to go on a mission that extremely dangerous. ~Why hadn't he told me!~ Elizabeth exclaimed. She became more angry at him as the time passed, and the more she thought about it. For now there was nothing she could do. But she waited for the meeting to be over so she could get this off of her chest. (posted by Calvin) =========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CO, Captain Eva Straton, 1221) the Paladin, I could go." He turned to Lt. Commander Sarouk, "If that is alright with you, sir?" Durron said, raising his hand. "You may need to send in more than one good engineer, captain," Ensign Rathyn spoke up, "I've already told Commander Capps I'll volunteer to be one of the Trojans." Eva looked over at Commander Sarouk with an inquiring look. "Ensign Tristen and I can handle Engineering," Sarouk said, evenly. Eva nodded then looked over at Commander Capps. "Draw up a final list of everyone who has volunteered," She said, "Have it on my desk by 1300. I'd like for you to be under way no latter than 1500." (Reply Capps) Eva then looked around the room. "If there is nothing else," She said, "Then lets get to work. Your all dismissed." (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1222) "Draw up a final list of everyone who has volunteered," she said. "Have it on my desk by 1300. I'd like for you to be under way no later than 1500. ~Tight Schedule~ Calvin thought, but he knew it was doable. "Aye sir." "If there is nothing left," she said. "Then lets get to work. You're all dismissed." Calvin sat at the table for a few seconds and waited for the other officers to clear out first. A few of them came by him, and made a little small talk. The room cleared quickly due to the fact that everyone had a task to do. Kyp waited for a few other officers to give their concerns and suggestions to the Lt. Commander before he stepped up, "Commander, could I have a word with you?" "Alright," Calvin said. He had a lenient open door policy. He wanted his officer to speak with him nearly about anything. "We will have to make this quick, I have a deadline to meet." (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar 12:22) Rana had been quiet for much of the meeting, just taking everything in. When the captain asked if there was anything else, she finally found the courage, and said, standing up, "Captain, I would like to volunteer for the 'Trojan Horse' mission." (posted by Spencer) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1223) "Sir, would you require any engineers on this mission? If I am not needed on the Paladin, I could go." He turned to Lt. Commander Sarouk, "Ifthat is alright with you, sir?" Durron said, raising his hand. "You may need to send in more than one good engineer, captain,"Ensign Rathyn spoke up, "I've already told Commander Capps I'll volunteer to be one of the Trojans." Eva looked over at Commander Sarouk with an inquiring look. "Ensign Tristen and I can handle Engineering," Sarouk said, evenly. Eva nodded then looked over at Commander Capps. "Draw up a final list of everyone who has volunteered," She said, "Have it on my desk by 1300. I'd like for you to be under way no latter than 1500." (Reply Capps) Eva then looked around the room. "If there is nothing else, "She said, "Then lets get to work. Your all dismissed." (reply Any) Kyp stood up, " 'Lura, I'm going to talk to Commander Capps about some particulars. Want to come along; we can both get our questions out the way at the same time?" (Reply Rathyn) Kyp waited for a few other officers to give their concerns and suggestions to the Lt. Commander before he stepped up, "Commander, could I have a word with you?" (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1223) Kyp waited for a few other officers to give their concerns and suggestions to the Lt. Commander before he stepped up, "Commander, could I have a word with you?" "Alright," the Lt. Commander said, "We will have to make this quick, I have a deadline to meet." Kyp nodded, "I just wanted to know, sir, if there was anything out of the ordinary you wanted engineering to do on this mission. Maintaining the operation of the ship is simple and easily accomplished, but this is not an easy mission. Do you have anything special you want us to do here?" (reply Calvin, David iyw) "That said, I will do my job. Thank you for your time, sir. I will leave you to your work now." (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1225) Kyp nodded, "I just wanted to know, sir, if there was anything out of the ordinary you wanted engineering to do on this mission. Maintaining the operation of the ship is simple and easily accomplished, but this is not an easy mission. Do you have anything special you want us to do here?" "I do indeed have one task that needs to be done. I talked about manipulating the view screen to make us look like the USS Hopes crew. Their information and pictures are on the main computer. Please take a team and work on the view screen aboard the USS Hope." "That said, I will do my job. Thank you for your time, sir. I will leave you to your work now." Kyp finished. "I will be aboard the USS Hope shortly," Calvin said as a good bye. He then turned toward Rathyn. "I need you to take a second team and began working on the transporters to beam the magnetics devices to the mines." (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1225) Michael watched as the meeting wrapped up, he had given his report be hadn't gotten anything more than a standard acknowledgement, which was what he expected. As everyone stood up, he spoke up. "Commander Sarouk, and Lieutenants Brownlee and Kerge, might I have a quick moment of your time, Sirs? (posted by Patrick) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge – ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1226) Kyp nodded, "I just wanted to know, sir, if there was anything out of the ordinary you wanted engineering to do on this mission. Maintaining the operation of the ship is simple and easily accomplished, but this is not an easy mission. Do you have anything special you want us to do here?" "I do indeed have one task that needs to be done. I talked about manipulating the view screen to make us look like the USS Hopes crew. Their information and pictures are on the main computer. Please take a team and work on the view screen aboard the USS Hope." "That said, I will do my job. Thank you for your time, sir. I will leave you to your work now." Kyp finished. "I will be aboard the USS Hope shortly," Calvin said as a good bye. Kyp saw the Lt. Commander talking to Alura as he left the Observation Lounge. He used his communicator to get a few engineers to come along with him to the USS Hope to modify the viewscreen. (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:26) With the meeting now drawing to a close, everyone began leaving the lounge with the exception of Ensign o'conner who seemed as though he still had something on his mind. "Commander Sarouk, and Lieutenants Brownlee and Kerge, might I have a quick moment of your time, Sirs?", said o'conner. Kerge was already on his way out through the door when he had spoken so he turned about to face the Ensign. "What can I do for you Ensign?", said Kerge in his usual direct manner. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - CSO/2O Lieutenant (jg) Joran Matthew Brownlee - 12:26) Joran got up from his seat and was about to leave when he heard his name called. "Commander Sarouk, and Lieutenants Brownlee and Kerge, might I have a quick moment of your time, Sirs? Joran turned around to see that it was Ensign O'Connor. "Yes, ensign, what can I do for you?" he asked. (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1227) "Commander Sarouk, and Lieutenants Brownlee and Kerge, might I have a quick moment of your time, Sirs?" Michael asked, and quickly he had the attention of all three. "Yes, ensign, what can I do for you?" Lieutenant Brownlee asked quickly followed by Lieutenant Kerge asking roughly the same question. When he also had Commander Sarouk's attention he stated his request. "Sirs, I am going to need a report for your departments concerning any non standard power requirements you might have during the upcoming battle, so I can make sure no special tactics or projects loose power at the wrong times. I am going to need the requests soon so my teams can make sure that the power system will be able to hold up to the power demands inside the gravity well." Michael said, using his most respectful tone, as he was making demands, however reasonable, of three superior officers. (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 12:28) The meeting concluded and people began to file out of the observation lounge. K'Palla was going to ask Oak-honor when they could meet at Ten-Forward for that drink, but he stopped to speak to several senior officers. The Klingon decided to ask the Terran later and that it would be best if she became more acquainted with the Science Station on the bridge, since the Captain expected her there. With that in mind, she made her way to the turbolift and headed to the bridge. (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Observation Lounge, CEO Lt. Cmndr Sarouk, 1228) "Sirs, I am going to need a report for your departments concerning any non standard power requirements you might have during the upcoming battle, so I can make sure no special tactics or projects loose power at the wrong times. I am going to need the requests soon so my teams can make sure that the power system will be able to hold up to the power demands inside the gravity well." Ensign O'Connor said, once he had everyone attention. Sarouk regarded the new Operations officer without expression. "Engineering has no non-standard power requirements Ensign," Sarouk said, evenly looking at Kerge and Brownlee. (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Observation Lounge - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:28) "Sirs, I am going to need a report from your departments concerning any non standard power requirements you might have during the upcoming battle", said O'Conner. ~Non standard power requirements?~ The notion had Kerge wondering about that, were there ever standard power requirements in a heated battle? Wasn`t it the case that power levels often fluctuated beyond what was standard? Kerge listened as sarouk gave his own slant to that, then he himself turned to the Ensign confused. "Security anticipates varying fluctuations in the sensor, weapons & shield systems whilst in battle", said Kerge, "perhaps it should be arranged for there to be sufficient power available whatever the situation Ensign O'Conner", he added in his usual stone cold clipped Klingon manner. (Reply O'Conner, Any) "Other than that, I have something I need to attend to now", said Kerge looking briefly to the doctor as he left the room. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 12:32) Upon reaching the bridge, K'Palla sat at the unmanned Science Station and turned on the monitors. There, she went over the simulations that she and Sarouk worked on earlier. As she worked, she sang a tune to herself. "I'm just a hunka-hunka burnin' love..... I'm just a hunka-hunka burnin' love......." (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Medical Centre - TAC/SC Kerge - 12:40) "I am in considerable pain Doctor", said Kerge holding his hand against the left side of his head & clearly showing such discomfort upon his face as he explained the situation. "To adequately function with a pack of hungry Targs howling away inside my skull is not the best situation irrespective of my tolerance for pain already", he added as the Doctor ran a medical scanner deftly across his temporal lobe. (Reply Keller, Any) "Anything to ease it would help Doctor", said the Klingon security chief. "As I will be on the bridge & not actively engaged in hand to hand combat, I cannot rely on my natural Klingon aggressive urges to overide the pain I am experiencing", he added. (Reply Keller) "All I know is that I cannot adequatly concentrate on my duties with this pain", said Kerge, "perhaps I should run my Klingon calisthenics routine at level nine in the holodeck with safeties off", he added. "That might possibly help"..... (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Personal Quarters - Lt Cmdr Capps & Ensign Knightley - 1245) After speaking with a few officers at the observation lounge Calvin made his way to his quarters. He knew he had a meeting with the Captain at 1300, but he knew he could make it. He had over half the list already on his desk. He needed to stop for a quick second and fix himself a snack. As soon as he stepped into his quarters he saw Elizabeth sitting on the couch. To Calvin she looked upset about something, and he had a feeling he already knew why. "Is everything ok?" Calvin asked as he made his way to the kitchen. "NO." Elizabeth said strongly. "Why didn't you tell me?" Elizabeth now stood up in front of the couch so she could see Calvin. Calvin was not able to get anything from the replicator since his focus went from food to the current situation. He walked into the living room and looked at Elizabeth. "I didn't feel right telling you yet. I wasn't for sure how to." He wasn't for sure if his answer was good enough for her or not, but he had a feeling it wasn't. Elizabeth looked down at the floor, then looked up at Calvin again. "I don't like it, and I don't think you excuse is the best. However I am not going to fight with you. It would be useless. Besides I want to go." "NO." Calvin answered back with his own 'no'. He could now see why having a relationship with a lower ranking officer could get hairy. He calmed down, and lowered his voice. "I don't want you to go," he said sympathetic. At this point Elizabeth had calmed down as well. "I know you have to give a list to Captain Straton at 1300, and I want you to consider me. Chief O'Conner will be here, and you will need an officer at Ops. You know there is no one better than me for tha task on your list." Calvin looked at the time. "I have to go." He stepped up to Elizabeth. "I will think about it on my way to the Ready Room." he then gave her a quick kiss on the forehead. "I love you." Elizabeth looked up at him. "I love you too." Calvin took the PADD that had his list on it, and left his quarters with out any food, and his stomach was letting him know about it. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - MCO`s Office - MCO Conner Tirrel - 12:45) In his office now, the MCO sat going over some of the projected results for the upcoming battle against starbase 234. With the tactical advantage of surprise on their side, casualties were expected to be light although in war, one could never be absolutely certain of anything. The command to reassign though had yet to come down from upstairs, Conner knew what was happening of course & he & his men were ready for it. With two thirds of the marine contingent now headed for the Patton, Conner found himself wondering what would be in store now for those remaining on the Paladin. As the flagship of the battle group, it might have been better to half the compliment between them, the powers that be however surely had their reasons & they weren`t to be questioned of course. Sitting there mulling over his thoughts however, Conner found himself suddenly contemplating the Patton & the applied historical significance of it`s name. The general in question of course had once said that nobody had won any wars by going off & dying for their countries, they had won them by making some other poor bastard go off & die for HIS country! The very notion made the MCO smile as he contemplated it. Times however had changed now, the rules of engagement & the weaponry at their hands now were far different than those of the good Generals times. Countries, & indeed entire worlds could be wiped out in an instance, the individual element of Pattons equation having been all but negated now by the very progress of time itself. The men of the Paladin however were Conner`s concern & not a general`s from a long forgotten era & he hoped that the projections on the PADD in his hand proved valid, or better still completely wrong in the sence that they would suffer no casualties whatsover. Writing home to the family of a marine to tell them something sad was never an easy task, it had never become easier with time either & the prospect of having to do it again after the taking of this starbase was none to happy a thought either. Conner put the thought out of his head however & switched the PADD`s display to briefly read through other pertinent info regarding their upcoming mission, then he headed off out the door to the mess. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope – Bridge – ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron – 1247) “What’s wrong with it now!” Kyp asked in an exasperated tone. The communications systems were not conforming properly to the programming they were trying to initiate in it. Presenting the images to say what was said by the bridge crew was easy. That was extremely easy. They tested it against the Paladin’s computer, and it thought that the images were of real crew members. They had also managed to rig the ship’s own sensors to trick the sensors of the station and nearby ships into thinking the original crew of the ship was on the bridge. Getting that programming into the communications systems, though, was proving to be quite trying. “Well, sir, the programming we’re trying to put in is contradictory to standard guidelines, and the computer is rejecting the programming.” Kyp thought for a second, then laughed at his own dense moment, “Well, if the computer doesn’t like being reprogrammed, take the programming and make it its own program. Just have that program create the message to be sent and have it go through the communications.” “Won’t they realize the delay, though?” “I don’t think so. Communications in a gravity well like this are always spotty at best anyway. We should be okay, and the computer is fast enough for it.” “Aye, sir,” the engineer went off to do as requested. Kyp went back to testing the program itself and making little improvements here and there. He made the program insert a little static into it to account for some minor battle damage it may have gone through. The engineer had come back over about forty minutes later and informed Kyp that the programming was ready. He checked the chronometer and saw that they were too late for this to go in with the First Officers report to the Captain, but they were done in time for them to get a good meal in before they had to leave for this mission. He shrugged and sent off a report to Lt. Commander Capps informing him that the ‘Trojan Programming’ was complete. Kyp dismissed the rest of the engineers and went down to main engineering of the Hope. He was pleased to see that the ship was in pretty good condition for what they had to do. He was more relieved, though, that he didn’t have to repair anything before they left. He ordered the replicator in the CEO’s office to make him a hearty soup. He was not pleased with the soup; obviously something was wrong with the quality of the food the replicator put out. He didn’t worry about it, because he didn’t plan to stay here that long anyway. He sat back and waited for Alura to either come down here or call him. They needed to figure out which one of them would take the bridge station or stay down here for the mission. He knew her job was harder than his, so he started drawing up a duty roster for the engineers arriving on the ship to take their positions. (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1300) Calvin made it to the Ready Room at 1300 exactly. He pushed the chime and waited for his Captain to allow him in the room. Seconds later the doors hissed open and the First Officer made his way inside. "Captain." Calvin said as a way to say hello to Eva. (reply Eva) Lt Cmdr Capps sat down in the nearest chair to him. Calvin placed the PADD on to the table. "Captain I would like to first speak with you about Lt Brownlee sir." (reply Eva) "I know he would make a great addition and help to the 'Trojan Horse' plan sir. But if something should go wrong with this plan you would lose your First Officer and Second Officer sir. I think he should stay behind on the Paladin and be your right hand man sir." (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1301) "Captain." Commander Capps said as he entered the room. Eva nodded in return, as she motioned for him to take a seat. He sat down and placed a PADD on her desk. "Captain I would like to first speak with you about Lt Brownlee sir." Capps said before Eva could even look at the PADD. "Oh?" She replied, "What about him?" "I know he would make a great addition and help to the 'Trojan Horse' plan sir. But if something should go wrong with this plan you would lose your First Officer and Second Officer sir. I think he should stay behind on the Paladin and be your right hand man sir." ~He has a point.~ Eva thought silently as she leaned back in her chair. ~However, if this does not work, we could lose the battle completely.~ "You will need a good science officer," Eva said, finally. "Who would you take instead of Lt. Brownlee?"" (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1302) "You will need a good science officer," Eva said finally. "Who would you take instead of Lt Brownlee?" The list of great science officers aboard the Paladin were of many, but Calvin already had one person in mind. "Ensign K'Palla can take his place," the First Officer said matter of factly. (reply Eva) "Aye. The rest of the list includes Ensign Knightley at Ops, Ensign Apar at Tactical, Ensign Rathyn and Ensign Durron in Engineering, and Ensign Brownlee at CONN." (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Ready Room, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1303) "Ensign K'Palla can take his place," Capps said matter of factly. Eva nodded, picking up the PADD to see the entire list of crew that would be going on the Hope. She rubbed her chin as she scrolled down the list of names. "Looks like you've got a good start," She said, after a few minuets. "Who will your senior officers be?" "Aye. The rest of the list includes Ensign Knightley at Ops, Ensign Apar at Tactical, Ensign Rathyn and Ensign Durron in Engineering, and Ensign Brownlee at CONN." Eva nodded. "Very well," She said, handing the PADD back to Capps. "I want you under way as soon as possible. You have a lot of work to do, better get to it. I'll break the news to Lt. Brownlee." (Reply Capps) Eva watched as Capps rose and headed for the door. "One other thing Commander." she said, as Capps reached the door. "Good luck." (Reply Capps) After the Commander had left, Eva leaned back in her chair again and tapped her comm-badge. "Straton to Lt. Brownlee. Report to my Ready Room immediately." (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Ready Room - Fo Lt Cmdr Capps - 1304) "I want you underway as soon as possible. You have a lot of work to do, better get to it. I'll break the news to Lt Brownlee." The Captain told Calvin. "Aye sir." Calvin stood up and turned toward the door to leave. The Captain called to him one more time. He turned his head slightly along with part of his body. "Good Luck," Eva said. Calvin knew that the Hope and his crew would need it. He had 110 percent confidence in both, but it was still a risky plan. "Thank you Captain." Was all the First Officer could say. He then finished walking out of the ready room. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 1316) The Hope's Engineering level was a far cry from the Paladin. The thrum of the warp core was essentially the same except, of course, for the slight variation in temper and rythm that only someone who works around them could notice. Alura Rathyn had spent the past hour familiarizing herself with the systems on this ship before she decided to hunt down Ensign Durron. She tapped her combadge. "Ensign Durron." (Reply: Durron) "Where are you?" (Reply: Durron) "I'll there in a few minutes. Rathyn out." Now it was just a matter of finding the CEO's office. That was the problem with being on a new ship. (posted by David) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1317) Kyp was having a very aggravating time with the routines that ran the replicators. He and the computer disagreed on what a good grilled fish with mac and cheese as a side tasted like. Kyp was the type of man that always needed a good meal on hand and wanted a lunch. He was taking a calming breath when Ensign Rathyn called him over the comm, =/\= "Ensign Durron." =/\= Kyp perked up a bit from his work and tapped his commbadge, =/\= Durron here. =/\= =/\= "Where are you? =/\= =/\= I'm in the CEO's office fighting with the computer on how to make good food with the replicator. Honesty, I don't know how this crew lived off it. =/\= =/\= "I'll there in a few minutes. Rathyn out." =/\= Kyp sat down in the CEO's chair and started putting PADDs in order. When he was finished, he got out of the chair and stood over by the replicator. He was continuing his war with the computer, and he wanted to have the CEO's chair vacant for Ensign Rathyn; she was the ranking engineer. He pulled the panel off the replicator and smiled to himself, "We'll see who's having a good lunch today. Won't we, Computer?" [Please specify request] "Cooperate with me." [Unspecified instructions, please clarify?] "Nevermind, Computer. I'll fix you myself." Kyp started reconnecting wires and used his PADD to rewrite a few programs. He managed to get what he wanted before Rathyn came in. He savored his meal with a grin of satisfaction over going around the computer. (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1320) There were many preparations to be made before the Hope was underway. Calvin stepped out of the Captains Ready Room ready to get to work. On the bridge he went up to the Ops console and spoke with the Chief of Operations. "Chief, I have sent you the list of officers that will be on the Hope. I need those officers on the hope in 10 minutes." (reply O'Conner) Calvin then turned around and headed toward the turbo lift. He tapped his badge, and it chirped the moment his palm contacted it. "Ensign K'Palla meet me on the Hopes bridge right away." Calvin then rode the turbo life to transporter three to beam aboard the Hope. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Personal Quarters, ACSO Ens JG K'Palla, 1322) K'Palla had finished running simulations on the bridge and was confident of her familiarity with the Science Station console. The Klingon woman was relieved from her station, so she grabbed a quick bite and then retired to her quarters to rest and refresh herself. She had just stepped out of her shower and was reaching for a towel, when she heard her comm-badge chirp. =^= Ensign K'Palla, meet me on the Hope's bridge right away. =^= ordered LCDR Capps. K'Palla excitedly ran for the comm-badge, and fumbled with it, as she was still dripping wet. "K'Palla here, sir! I'm on my way!" she said enthusiastically, and headed for the door. As it opened, a blast of cold air from the corridor reminded the Klingon that she had forgotten to dry off and get dressed. A passing ensign gave K'Palla an approving nod and continued, making a comment about it not being polite to point. The Klingon woman grinned back at the man and went inside, but the joke was lost to her. She wasn't too embarrassed by the incident, since she knew she had an attractive body and mildly enjoyed being gawked at by people, regardless of gender. Perhaps too, it was that she knew how to handle herself if the situation ever got out of hand (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 9, Christian's Quarters - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:22) =/\=Operations to Ensign Knightley, Ensign Apar, Ensign Rathyn, Ensign Durron, Ensign Brownlee, and Ensign K'Palla. You have orders to report to the USS Hope within Ten minutes for Away Team Duty. Please Confirm receipt of these orders.=/\= Christian had been reading and tapped his combadge. "Acknowledged." He put down the book, and went off towards the transporter room. ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Deck 8, Transporter Room 3 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:24) Christian strode into the transporter room, and relayed the necessary information to the chief. He stepped onto the pad, and dematerialized. (posted by Spencer) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Deck 6, Transporter Room 2 - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:25) Christian rematerialized on the pad in one of the Hope's transporter rooms. He stepped off the platform, and out into the corridor. He had spent some time on a Sovereign-class ship in the past, but he was a little shaky about the layout of it. He found a turbolift, and took it to the bridge. (posted by Spencer) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Deck 1, Bridge - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:26) Christian stepped out of the turbolift and onto the bridge. he strode over towards the Ready Room, and rang the doorchime. (posted by Spencer) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1327) Calvin heard the door. "Come in," he said. The door followed by opening, and a standing body was revealed in the door. As the person moved closer Calvin was able to see it was Christian. "What can I do for you?" (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - Ensign Knightley - 1328) Elizabeth sat at the Ops console getting familiar with it. It was for the most part the same as any other ship in Starfleet. There were changes she wanted to make to the the console so she would be able to access a few commands faster. It was apparent that the ops officer that sat here last was not well experienced. She looked around the bridge and saw not too many officers. There were a few that were working on the view screen to pull off the effect that was part of the plan. She paid no attention to them as she sat up her console. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Ready Room - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee - 13:28) Once Christian had rang the doorchime, the customary "Come in," was heard. Christian stepped through the door, and stood with his hands behind his back. "What can I do for you?" Christian snapped to attention, and said, "Ensign Christian Soval Brownlee reporting for duty, 'Captain.'" (posted by Spencer) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Ready Room - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1329) Christian snapped to attention, and said, "Ensign Christian Soval Brownlee reporting for duty, 'Captain.'" "At ease, and welcome aboard. Ensign K'Palla has been working on the Hope to make the changes to help CONN fly the ship. Now, get to your post. We will be departing at 1500 promptly." (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Personal Quarters, ACSO Ens JG K'Palla, 1330) In minutes, K'Palla was dressed and running to Transporter Three, where she was beamed directly over to the Hope's bridge. When she saw LCDR Capps, she stood at attention and addressed him. "Commander, Ensign K'Palla reporting, sir!" she barked. (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1331) "Commander, Ensign K'Palla reporting, sir!" she barked. "At ease. Are you still volunteering for the 'Trojan Horse'?" Calvin asked but knew it was a silly question. (reply K'Palla) "Very well. You are now assigned to the USS Hope. You will take the science station. You will continue to work on the program to help the CONN officer to fly with the extreme gravity. I also need you to find a discrete way to scan for mines." (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 13:36) "Commander, Ensign K'Palla reporting, sir!" she barked. "At ease. Are you still volunteering for the 'Trojan Horse'?" Calvin asked but knew it was a silly question. "Yessir! I am honored to have be chosen!" K'Palla said eagerly, trying to hide her swelling pride. "Very well. You are now assigned to the USS Hope. You will take the science station. You will continue to work on the program to help the CONN officer to fly with the extreme gravity. I also need you to find a discrete way to scan for mines." said the Lieutenant Commander. "jiyaj! I'll get started on that right away, sir!" she said. After being dismissed by Capps, K'Palla immediately went to the Science Station and fired it up to become familiar with it. As she sat down, her comm-badge chirped again. It was her new friend, Oak-honor from OPS. =^= Operations to Ensign Knightley, Ensign Apar, Ensign Rathyn, Ensign Durron, Ensign Brownlee, and Ensign K'Palla. You have orders to report to the USS Hope within Ten minutes for Away Team Duty. Please Confirm receipt of these orders. =^= said the Terran male. The Klingon woman grinned when she heard the orders. "K'Palla here, Oak-honor! Acknowledged! I am on the bridge already!" she said with a smile. "We will have to check the rain until I return before we hit Ten-Forward!" (reply O'Connor) "qaplas, my friend!" she said earnestly. "I will be sure to leave some for you!" (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 1336) "Operations to Ensign Knightley, Ensign Apar, Ensign Rathyn, Ensign Durron, Ensign Brownlee, and Ensign K'Palla. You have orders to report to the USS Hope within Ten minutes for Away Team Duty. Please Confirm receipt of these orders." Michael said. =/\=K'Palla here, Oak-honor! Acknowledged! I am on the bridge already!=/\= she said. "We will have to check the rain until I return before we hit Ten-Forward!=/\= Michael did his best not to laugh at the maimed idiom, "I'll hold you to that. Happy hunting, Friend, Honor to you and your house in the coming hours," Michael said, not knowing nearly enough about Klingon culture to give her a good Klingon send off. =/\=qaplas, my friend!" she said earnestly. =/\=I will be sure to leave some for you!=/\= "Thanks, See you soon, I'll have the drinks waiting." And with that, he closed the line. (posted by patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Main Engineering - CEO's Office - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 13:37) Kyp was sitting in the CEO's office enjoying a bite to eat before Ensign Rathyn came back from setting up the transporters for the mine disablers. His comumicator went off during his meal. It was Ensign O'Conner from OPS =^= Operations to Ensign Knightley, Ensign Apar, Ensign Rathyn, Ensign Durron, Ensign Brownlee, and Ensign K'Palla. You have orders to report to the USS Hope within Ten minutes for Away Team Duty. Please Confirm receipt of these orders. =^= Kyp tapped his commbadge after a bite of fish. =/\= This is Ensign Durron, I'm aboard the Hope right now =/\= (reply O'Conner iyw) "Alright, I better finish this up before Alura comes back." Kyp finished his meal quickly. (posted by Ben) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1454) Kyp had taken the engineer's station on the bridge. Seeing as the 'Trojan Program' was his responsibility, he was working closely with communications. He was running through the program again to make sure that it would work correctly. His tests were proving that the program was working correctly. Kyp was confident that this part of the mission would go across as planned. He decided to check on Ensign Rathyn, =/\= Alura, we're going to be heading out soon. Is everything green down there? =/\= (reply Rathyn) =/\= Alrighty, then. We're go up here. See you when this is over. Durron out. =/\= Calvin looked around the bridge. "Ensign Brownlee. The course is Starbase 234 at your fastest speed." ~Well, here we go. Time to save the galaxy.~ Kyp smiled at his own sarcasm and continued to check over the status of the Hope. Kyp thought it an ironic name for the ship. The hopes of this attack succeeding rested on this ship. He would have to joke with the others about this afterwards...if they made it out of this alive... (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 1500) Calvin and his crew were all on the bridge of the USS Hope. They all were at their respected area. Lt Cmdr Capps sat in the commanding officer chair getting ready to take the ship out to Starbase 234. The Hope was about to leave the rest of the fleet. It was time to start the 'Trojan Horse' plan. Calvin looked around the bridge. "Ensign Brownlee. The course is Starbase 234 at your fastest speed." (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Palaldin - Deck 1 Corridor - 3rd Lt Phillip Hyde - 1500) The Marines aboard the Paladin were now getting a little unsettled. The eve of battle was upon them, and their nerves began to twitch. The blood that flowed within them boiled for battle. It was time to put their game faces on, and it was no different for Phillip. Phillip was not the toughest person in his squad at first. But a recent mission opened his eyes, and showed him who he really was. He was a marine, and a damn good one. Lt Tirrel had to tell him that, but never the less Phillip figured it out before he quit the Marines. 3rd Lt Hyde was on his normal posting route through deck 1. There were now many officers that were walking at a faster pace than normal. Everyone was getting closer to their deadline, and their duties were not finished yet. Philip saw nothing of note on deck one so he continued his way to the turbo lift to proceed to deck 2. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Bridge - Lt Max - 1501) Lt Max steadied the ship along its path to starbase 234 along with the rest of the fleet, and its catches. Max spent the last few hours multitasking between the normal ships CONN duties along with studying the modified engineering subroutines Ensign K'Palla and Chief Sarouk did to the Paladin. He also used Ensign Brownlee's notes to his advantage. So far the changes seemed sound to Max, but he would want some time in the holodeck to familiarize himself with it. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 1502) K'Palla had worked the bugs out of transfering the gravity data to CONN. Fortunately she was able to analyze the data quickly enough, so transfer was not delayed at all. LCDR Capps was at the center chair, looking around at the others. "Ensign Brownlee. The course is Starbase 234 at your fastest speed." The Klingon looked over to Ensign Durron at the Engineering Station and grinned. "It is a good day to die, but if we survive this, I'm buying!" (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 1503) Kyp was in a calm meditation as he was waiting for them to pull off from the Paladin. He heard Ensign K'Palla address him, "It is a good day to die, but if we survive this, I'm buying!" He turned to face her and actually *looked* at her for the first time. He could see that she was quite attractive, even for a Klingon. He pushed those thoughts out of his head, for they were too distracting at a time like this. He grinned and replied, "Alright, I'll hold you to that." (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla - 1505) "It is a good day to die, but if we survive this, I'm buying!" smiled K'Palla. Kyp looked up when the Klingon science officer addressed him. His eyebrows went up as he saw how attractive she was even for a Klingon. He pushed those thoughts away from his mind as they were distracting before a battle. He grinned at what she said, though, "Alright, I'll hold you to that." "I am K'Palla, House of Da'Gor. I did not expect to be here, but I am glad nonetheless!" she admitted. Kyp frowned, a thought occured to him, "Why didn't you expect to be here?" "At the briefing, when I volunteered, Captain Straton prefered that I remain on the Paladin. I was disappointed to say the least. I don't know why she changed her mind but I'm not going to ask!" she smiled, as she worked her console. Kyp thought back to the meeting and remembered the Captain saying that. He rationalized out why the Captain would have changed her mind, "Well, we need a science officer for this. Your job is key, but we couldn't have the Second Officer *and* the First Officer go off on a mission that may be suicide. It makes sense, now." The thought of being expendable didn't phase K'Palla at all. "Suicide?" she grinned at the fellow ensign. "It will be a slaughter!! When I return home after this, they will sing songs about us for eons to come!! ta'mey Dun, bommey Dun! (Great Deeds, Great Songs!)" Kyp gave a sad smile, "I hope you're right, Ensign. I really do. Too many people are suffering under Doenitz for us to fail. Hey, how did you end up in the Fleet?" "I was to sign on with the Klingon Elite Battle Group called "The Blood Sisters", but I wished to become a scientist instead of a warrior, so I joined Starfleet. My father did not approve, but still supported my decision. He is Captain of the Vorcha-class IRON WIND, in the Klingon Fleet. If you like, I can give you some power enhancing tips he uses on his ship?" she offered. "Sure, any more we can eek out of this ship would be great for what we're heading up against. I'll try anything that isn't a danger to blowing the ship up. Hahaha." "Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that in the Terran culture, is it impolite for a male not to introduce himself to a female?" she smirked. Kyp grinned, "Yes, it is a custom. But I think of giving information as giving someone power. My name is an interesting piece of information, don't you think?" "True power is in the heart!" countered the Klingon female, with a wry grin. "And if I wasn't interested, I wouldn't have asked!" Kyp leaned back into the chair, "I'm Kyp Durron. You can call me Kyp." "qaplas, K'yp!" smiled K'Palla, then leaned in to give up her father's power hint. "During heated battle, my father always cut life-support to 50%, and routed the extra power to weapons and shields. If it didn't work, they wouldn't need the life support anyway! But don't tell them that I told you! The Academy didn't like it when I used it during my Kobiyashi Maru!" Kyp thought about what that would do to the rest of the ship if he did that, then smiled at the idea, "I think the people on board could handle that stress for a while before they started to notice it too much." He sat up and groaned when he saw the long list of reports that had just come in, "Well, I've got a stack of reports to read. Can we continue this conversation in Ten Forward once we blow up this starbase?" He laughed to ease the tension. "Of course, you can join me and Oak-honor from OPS when we return! We will toast to victory and sing until they throw us out!" she laughed as well, turning back to her console. Surprisingly, K'Palla felt better even though she was going into a battle which she might not survive. She had made some new friends before entering the conflict, first Oak-honor, then K'yp. She recalled a saying that her father once told her. ~~ nIteb Qob qaD jup 'e' chaw'be' SuvwI'! ~~ she heard Da'Gor's voice in her heart. ( A warrior does not let a friend face danger alone! ) (posted by Ben and John) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Holodeck - Lt Max - 1600) Lt Max was relieved from his duty a little earlier than normal, but Max had some work to do. He now was seated at a CONN station that was perfectly identical to his station on the bridge, but in the back of his mind he knew it was on the holodeck. He checked over the console, and made himself ready for the tests he was about to initiate. "Computer run program with random attacking enemy ships, and one ally ship." [Confirmed] The ship's computer reported and beeped. "Run program," Max commanded. As soon as the computer replied to his request the bridge began to shake. Max held onto his console as hard as he could. He then moved his fingers across the board as he studied the read-outs and layouts of the enemy ships and its allied ship engaged with him. With all the training Max has had he quickly noticed the best tactic to take. He punched a few keys into the computer, and input the tactic at a rapid speed. A red text blinked on the panel at him. It was a warning telling Max that the specific tactic was not permitted. Max quickly thought why would the computer give him such a warning. He went through a few key instruments, but he was unable to tell why. The ship then rumbled and shook again more violently. Max over rided the computer and initiated the tactical move anyways. The ship followed its instruction, and moved its position to its tactic. Half way through the re-positioning, it began to drag away from it set coordinates. The ship was being pulled on a direct course to its ally ship. Max jumped, and ran his fingers across his board. He read the read-outs again, and fixed his mistake. The ship was now out of danger from hitting another object, but Max was not OK with what had just happened. "Computer, stop program, what was the error?" Max exclaimed. [The ship was being dragged by the increase gravity by the nearby star.] The computer knew that that tactic would fail because of the extra gravity.~ Max now knew that he needed more practice, and he also knew that Sarouks and K'Palla's changes had worked. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== ======================================================================================================================== Mission: Piercing the Iron Curtain Day: 4 Stardate: 2407.01.13 ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Calvin Capps - 0900) (USS Hope - Bridge - Kyp - 0900) (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0902) (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 0906) (USS GS Patton Jr - Staging Center 2 - Act 3rd Lieutenant 'Gandhi' Fillmore - 0910) (USS GS Patton Jr - Staging Center 2 - 3rd Lieutenant Joseph Darren Jackson - 0912) (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0920) (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0921) (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0921) (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 0921) (USS Paladin - Bridge - TAC/SC Kerge - 09:22) (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0923) (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0923) (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0923) (USS Red Claw - Cockpit - Lt Major Menelian - 09:24) (USS Paladin - Bridge - TAC/SC Kerge - 09:24) (USS Hope - Deck 1, Bridge - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 09:24) (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 0925) (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0925) (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0925) (USS Paladin - Bridge - TAC/SC Kerge - 09:26) (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0927) (USS Patton - Marine Staging - MCO Conner Tirrel - 09:28) (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 0929) (USS George S Patton - Staging Center 1 - Brigadier General Michelle Leah Roberts - 0930) (USS Paladin, Bridge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 0930) (USS Paladin - Transporter room 3 - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0932) (USS George S Patton - Staging Center 1 - 3rd Lieutenant Joseph Darren Jackson - 0933) (USS Paladin - Cargo Bay 2 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0934) (USS George S Patton - Bridge - Brigadier General Michelle Leah Roberts - 0935) (Starbase - Main Engineering, Engineering Control Center - CCE 1st Lt Robinson - 09:35) (Enemy station- Corridor - 3rd Lieutenant Joseph Darren Jackson - 0936) (Starbase 234, somewhere on the Deck above Main Engineering - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 0940) (Starbase 234, Upper level of main engineering - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 0945) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Calvin Capps - 0900) Lt Cmdr Capps sat a the command chair once again. His senior crew were scattered at their consoles working diligencey. Now was the time when all the planning and hard work was about to be live tested with all its kick backs; good or bad. "Forward view screen." Calvin ordered to the ops officer. Starbase 234 appeared on the view screen, and before his eyes. There was no doubt that his heart beat began to increase. "We are being hailed," Elizabeth reported. Calvin breathed hard one last time. "Ensign Durron activate secondary view." (reply Durron) "Open a hailing channel." Calvin ordered in a calm voice. (reply Apar) Calvin watched at the view screen and saw a human face pop on it. "This is Captain Joshua Kepler of the USS Hope. We are sending our access codes now," Calvin said to the ops officer on the starbase. He spoke with a clear voice, and got right to point as to not chatter. He also had hoped the view screen trick had worked. "Codes received. You are cleared to dock at C. We are sending you a clear path to travel. Be careful. By the way Captain..how is the wife?" ~Crap~ Calvin thought. ~Out of all the Ops officers on the starbase this one knows me, and wants to talk.~ Lt Cmdr Capps thought about what his answer was going to be. He read the Captains full bio, and when Calvin thought about it harder; he remembered. "Unless you know something I don't, I am not married," Calvin said with a gulp. "Hahahaa," the officer laughed. "You may proceed." The view screen then went back to showing the outside of the starbase 234. "Ensign Brownlee proceed with the course you were given," Lt Cmdr Capps ordered. (reply Brownlee) "Get us close enough to each mine so we can transport each magnetic device." Calvin then turned to the science station. "Ensign K'Palla began your discrete scans for the mines." (Reply K'Palla) "Ensign Rathyn transport each device when it is safe to do so." (reply Rathyn) "Ensign Knightley, make the message to the task force ready." "Aye sir," Elizabeth said. "I have found a secure singal comming from the starbase that I can transmit our message on whilst it is being masked from the starbase." Calvin then stayed seated in the command chair, and waited for the ship to make its way though the mine field. (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Bridge - Kyp - 0900) Kyp had slept much more soundly than he thought he would before going into an enemy stronghold. He was fully rested and calm as he sat at his terminal on the bridge. He was confident that the program he and the other engineers had written for their hoax would work perfectly. He perked up as he heard Commander Capps begin to give orders, "Forward view screen." Kyp looked up and saw the picture of the starbase show up. He could see the little points of the minefield. "We are being hailed," Ensign Knightly said from the Ops station. Lt. Commander Capps breathed hard, "Ensign Durron activate secondary view." Kyp pressed a few buttons on his panel and brought up the secondary display. "Open a hailing channel." Commander Capps ordered. Kyp was pleased that he was keeping a calm composure with what they were facing. It made him feel a little better to know that the First Officer wasn't going to snap. (reply Apar) Kyp saw a human officer appear on the screen. Commander Capps began to play his role, and Kyp was glad to see that the 'Trojan Program' had activated properly, "This is Captain Joshua Kepler of the USS Hope. We are sending our access codes now," Kyp held his breath to see how effective the program really was. "Codes received. You are cleared to dock at C. We are sending you a clear path to travel. Be careful. By the way Captain..how is the wife?" Kyp raised an eyebrow. He wasn't entirely sure if this was a trick question or not. He hoped Lt. Commander Capps knew the captain of the ship's profile, "Unless you know something I don't, I am not married." The Commander said. "Hahahaa," the officer laughed. "You may proceed." The view screen then went back to showing the outside of the starbase 234. "Ensign Brownlee proceed with the course you were given," Lt Cmdr Capps ordered. (reply Brownlee) "Get us close enough to each mine so we can transport each magnetic device." Calvin then turned to the science station. "Ensign K'Palla began your discrete scans for the mines." (Reply K'Palla) "Ensign Rathyn transport each device when it is safe to do so." (reply Rathyn) "Ensign Knightley, make the message to the task force ready." "Aye sir," the Ensign replied. "I have found a secure singal comming from the starbase that I can transmit our message on whilst it is being masked from the starbase." Kyp sighed and sagged back into his chair after the Lt. Commander had given his orders. He turned to face the First Officer, "The program seems to have worked, sir. Things went off without a hitch, but I can't tell you if they were able to see through it, though." (posted by Ben) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0902) All was in readiness as the Hope entered enemy territory. There was some conversation between LCDR Capps and the checkpoint officer. Nothing seemed out of place to them and the Trojan vessel was admitted. The view screen then went back to showing the outside of the starbase 234. "Ensign Brownlee proceed with the course you were given," Lt Cmdr Capps ordered. (reply Brownlee) "Get us close enough to each mine so we can transport each magnetic device." Calvin then turned to the science station. "Ensign K'Palla began your discrete scans for the mines." "Aye, sir!" said the Klingon female, who then activated the scans, using minimal power and lower end ratios. "Ensign Rathyn transport each device when it is safe to do so." (reply Rathyn) "Ensign Knightley, make the message to the task force ready." "Aye sir," Elizabeth said. "I have found a secure signal coming from the starbase that I can transmit our message on whilst it is being masked from the starbase." Calvin then stayed seated in the command chair, and waited for the ship to make its way though the mine field. (posted by John) ========================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 0906) As Commander Capps gave orders to the his crew of Trojans aboard the Hope, Ensign Rathyn was checking over the transporter system from the Engineering Station on the bridge. "Ensign Tarpula, I'll work the transporter controls from up here. No offense but this has to be done just right if it's going to work. Transfer control to me." "Control transferred the reply came back a few moments later. It's all yours." She checked the board, feeling no little apprehension at what she was about to attempt. One slip and not only would she and her shipmate's be found out but their little ploy would be a complete failure. If that happened, the fleet might have a real hard time taking the starbase. "Ensign Rathyn transport each device when it is safe to do so," Commander Capps voice cut through her reverie. "Aye, Sir," she replied. "We're coming upon the first site now." She adjusted her controls. "The first one is away, sir. Transporter modulation within designated parameters." The time passed with grueling slowness as she activated the transporter beams time after time. Alura was keenly aware that many pairs of eyes were watching her every move, but she concentrated on the task at hand. The USS Hope was passing the last mine along the path it was given from Starbase 234. Commander Capps looked over at her for the umpteenth time as she worked her panel for one final beaming. She straightened herself and took in a deep breath of relief. Turning to the commander she affirmed their success with a nod. (posted by David) ======================================================================================================================= (USS GS Patton Jr - Staging Center 2 - Act 3rd Lieutenant 'Gandhi'Fillmore - 0910) Gandhi didn't say a word as one of his junior NCO's lifted the barrel of his favorite heavy-phaser onto Gandhi's back and attached it to the hard points on his BDU. He had no idea if they were going to need heavy phasers on this mission, but he was the leader of a Heavy Infantry squad... he'd have been as naked as a standard infantry soldier if he hadn't been carrying his heavy weapons. He hefted his type-3 phaser and looked around at the massed humanity in the 2nd Staging Center. Everyone was grouped by squad, ready for action, and communication was at a real minimum. The ship was shaking around them in combat, and such things usually made Marines nervous. It was, after all, not the Marines in charge of this boat... it was some fleeters. He only hoped they knew what they were doing; he didn't want to die in a staging center. "Lieutenant, the squad is ready for battle." "Very well, fall out and prepare to disembark." Was his immediately reply. The NCO nodded and started barking orders at the other men and women of his heavy infantry squad. Gandhi almost smiled, How many times had he given that command as a Senior NCO? How many times had his own Lieutenant told him to prepare the men to give their lives... the number was without count by now, the details of one battle faded into another. It didn't get any easier with time. He ran his hands over all his weapons, checking their placement, and then turned a few times to make sure the massive phaser on his back was properly attached. All was well. =/=... and you ammo mules to the rear, I don't want to be blown up from a stray phaser shot with you nitwits in the front. Fall out! =\= his Senior NCO finished. He barked, the squad jumped, they were in neat order within twenty seconds. Gandhi was at their head as Squad Leader. The tripod carriers were next, followed by the rest of the phaser-mules, followed lastly by the Marines carrying large backpacks filled with ammo-clips for the power-hungry support phasers. He looked them over and nodded, "Time for some ass kicking men, are you ready?" "OOOOOOWAH, SIR!" (posted by Trout) ========================================================================================================================= (USS GS Patton Jr - Staging Center 2 - 3rd Lieutenant Joseph Darren Jackson - 0912) Joe could hear the calls of the other squads as he took one last look down the row of suited and hardened men who were in the "Hell Wraiths" recon team. From another squad came the cry of "Lieutenant, the squad is ready for battle." "Very well, fall out and prepare to disembark." Joe smiled as he stopped before the center of the line and ran the fingers of his right hand through his short brown hair, the Pallas helmet was in his left. "Weapons check!" He barked and there was a unified movement as the Mark III rifles were held out in parade fashion before the armored men. Jermaine walked the line again, taking some and passing others, checking charges and condition before he was satisfied. "Sappers are you ready?" "Sir, yes sir!" Six men stepped forward and deposited their satchels of charges on the deck then stepped back into line. "Forward observation are you ready?" "Sir, yes sir!" The seven men stepped forward and placed the portable long-range sensor units on the deck and stepped back into line. "Hell Wraiths are you ready?" "Sir, yes sir!" There was a roar as all replied. Jermaine placed the Pallas helmet upon his head and sealed it then shouted. "Gather your equipment and to your places marines! It's time for Doenitz to go down!" =/= Ooooh Wahh SIR! =/= Was the roar from the throats of the men as they stamped their booted feet upon the deck of the staging center making it boom in cadence. (posted by Charles) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0920) Lt Cmdr Capps was pleased with his crew for the way they performed their duties during a difficult time. So far it seemed as if everything was going as plan. The USS Hope was passing the last mine along the path it was given from Starbase 234. Calvin looked over to Ensign Rathyn once again, just like every time the Hope passed a mine. He looked into the officers eyes to see if the device was transported successfully. (reply Rathyn) Just like the past 8 mines the Hope went through, Alura gave the Lt Cmdr the same nod of assurance. Calvin however had to second question himself. So far everything seemed to easy. What if the Starbase did know something, but they were trying to lure the Hope in closer to capture. Or worse, they were going to use it for bait for the rest of the battle group. Calvin had to believe in the plan. It was expected of him, and if he didn't then what would his officers believe. Calvin stood up for more comfort. He wasn't 100 percent sure what was about to happen next. "Ensign Knightley, send the Paladin the piggy backed message. 'the horse is in the stable.'" Elizabeth pushed a few buttons on her console. "Aye sir. Secure message is being sent now." Lt Cmdr Capps then turned to his tactical officer. "Mr. Apar when we see the rest of the fleet..and the Paladin has messaged us back. Set the devices off immediately." (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0921) All was going well. The mines were being detected, scanned, and bugged. It seemed too easy. The ensign thought that perhaps the enemy knew something, but didn't voice her concerns. It was not the time nor the place, plus she didn't want to sound afraid. Just then, LCDR Capps stood up and spoke. "Ensign Knightley, send the Paladin the piggy backed message. 'the horse is in the stable.'" Elizabeth pushed a few buttons on her console. "Aye sir. Secure message is being sent now." Lt Cmdr Capps then turned to his tactical officer. "Mr. Apar when we see the rest of the fleet..and the Paladin has messaged us back. Set the devices off immediately." K'Palla's blood started to boil as the anticipation of battle loomed closer. With a grin she looked to Ensign Durron. "Now the fun begins!" (posted by John) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0921) Kyp was sitting back in his chair with his eyes closed. Hey knew he was going to make himself jumpy if he kept going over every little minor detail of a report from engineering. He trusted the crew of the Paladin to do their jobs. He could feel like he suspected everyone else did that this was just too easy, but he didn't let it bother him. He just figured that people like to have things be harder than they had to. They were a good crew, he wasn't surprised things were going well. Just then, LCDR Capps stood up and spoke. "Ensign Knightley, send the Paladin the piggy backed message. 'the horse is in the stable.'" Elizabeth pushed a few buttons on her console. "Aye sir. Secure message is being sent now." Lt Cmdr Capps then turned to his tactical officer. "Mr. Apar when we see the rest of the fleet..and the Paladin has messaged us back. Set the devices off immediately." K'Palla's blood started to boil as the anticipation of battle loomed closer. With a grin she looked to Ensign Durron. "Now the fun begins!" Kyp shook his head and laughed as he opened his eyes to look at the ensign, "Gotta love that about Klingons. You all always laugh at some really grim situations." (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 0921) Eva was seated in her chair on the Bridge, waiting for the coded signal from the Hope. All around her she could feel the tension as everyone knew that signal could come in at any time. The Paladin and the fleet was amassed just outside of sensor range of the star base or any of it's remote sensor platforms. The entire fleet was at standing red alert. It was the calm before the storm. Everything was in place, and it was almost time for the hammer to fall. A sudden beep from the Operations console cut through the tense silence. "Captain," Ensign O'Connor said, turning from his station to look in her direction. "We just received the signal from the Hope. They are in position and ready." Eva nodded, "CONN, take us in, warp 9 till we hit the gravity well then full impulse. Signal the fleet. We're going in." The Paladin leapt to warp followed by the rest of the Battle Group. They had just crossed the point of no-return. Star Base 234 would pick them up on long range sensors any second. Eva pulled up a tactical display on her arm chair screen and watched the distance between the fleet and the Star Base decrease rapidly, at warp 9 the fleet closed the distance in very little time. "We have entered the systems gravity well," Lt. Max, announced, "Dropping out of warp and going to full impulse." "Transmit signal to the Hope now," Eva said, nodding to Ensign O'Connor. "Tell them to get the hell out of there." She then turned to Lt. Kerge. "Give them as much cover fire as you can, Lt." "Sir, we are being hailed by the Star Base," O'Connor said, suddenly. "We are being ordered to stand down or be destroyed." On the screen, several enemy star ships and a swarm of fighters could be seen moving in their direction. Eva grinned. "We will see about that," She said, leaning back and pressing a button to patch her through to the rest of the battle group. "Commodore to the Fleet, commence attack. Attack Cruisers and Interceptors punch us a hole. Dragon Slayers and Fighting Whatever's, form up and engage enemy fighters. Starquest and Republic back them up." On the main view screen the minefield suddenly exploded, in a brilliant cascade explosion , as the two forces closed within firing range. The Paladin shook as her forward shields absorbed the enemies first volley. Eva held on to her chair as the ship shook under the impact. "Lt. Kerge," She said through grit teeth, "Fire at will." (posted by Wes) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Bridge - TAC/SC Kerge - 09:22) Their moment had arrived! Everything they had been preparing for was now upon them, it was do or die. For a Klingon like Kerge, this was the very essence of life, Kerge, like every other member of his warrior race could already smell the sweet smell of success in his mouth as they took the bit between their teeth. With the Paladin now at high warp, they were in the vicinity of the target starbase in no time at all. Lt Cmdr Capps had done a fine job in getting through the tricky minefield & now it was their turn to light the fires of glory. "Give them as much cover fire as you can, Lt.", said the Captain. "Aye sir, targetting scanners are sweeping the field, phasers are charged & ready, photon & quantum torpedoes are locked & loaded", said Kerge. "Sir, we are being hailed by the Star Base," said O'Conner. "We are being ordered to stand down or be destroyed." The tension on the bridge was palpable now, in an instance, enemy fighters showed on Kerges tactical scanner, the Paladins active targetting picking them out sequentially & quickly logging their positions before shunting the data to the weapons array "We will see about that," said the Captain. "Commodore to the Fleet, commence attack. Attack Cruisers and Interceptors punch us a hole. Dragon Slayers and Fighting Whatever's, form up and engage enemy fighters. Starquest and Republic back them up.", she added iin quick well oiled succession. Then the minefield suddenly detonated to signal their rallying call as the ships of starbase 234 engaged them at will. "Lt. Kerge," said the Captain, "Fire at will." Kerge was on the controls in a blink of an eye, the nearest ships were quickly targetted & the Paladins phaser battery`s opened up on them quickly disabling two of the ships as she shook in responce to hits from her broadside. "qoH, veQDuj 'oH Dujllj'e'", cried Kerge as the aforementioned vessel attempted to even the score after the two fighters were disabled. Kerge targetted her imediately & sent two photon torpedoes streaking into her to drop her shields down to fifty percent. Almost imediately though, another ship was being targetted by the active scanners as it flagged up on the tactical console as coming into range. One photon torpedo hit the Paladin`s engineering section imediately damaging their shields. "Our starboard shields are at seventy eight percent Captain", cried Kerge as he sent a volley of photon torpedoes & phaser fire into the attacking vessels heart. (Reply CO) "Aye sir", said Kerge as he continued to take down as many of the bigger ships as they could whilst leaving the smaller ones to Major Menellian`s more agile fighter squadrons. (posted by Alan) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0923) Lt Cmdr Capps then turned to his tactical officer. "Mr. Apar when we see the rest of the fleet..and the Paladin has messaged us back. Set the devices off immediately." K'Palla's blood started to boil as the anticipation of battle loomed closer. With a grin she looked to Ensign Durron. "Now the fun begins!" Kyp shook his head and laughed as he opened his eyes to look at the ensign, "Gotta love that about Klingons. You all always laugh at some really grim situations." K'Palla glanced back over at K'yp as the action started. "Grim? This is the best time of a Klingon's life!" (posted by John) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0923) The USS Hope had now passed every mine, and it was drawing closer to starbase 234 every second. Calvin stood eagerly waiting for a message from the Paladin. In the mean time he decided it would be best for him to sit during a battle. As he sat in the chair he watched the Starbase get larger and larger. "Ensign Brownlee slow down to half impulse," Lt Cmdr Capps ordered, trying to buy more time. The bridge got quiet. Deathly quiet.The only thing that broke the tension was a sudden motion from Ensign Knightley at the Ops station. She ran her fingers on the board not stating immediately what she was doing. Every eye was on her. "The Paladin and the fleet has received the message. Continue as plan sir." Calvin wasted no time. "Ensign Apar, blow the mind. Rear view!" Calvin ordered to the separate officers. He wanted to see the explosion of the mind field. (Reply Apar) The view screen switched to rear view. Calvin could only see the stars, and if he looked hard enough he was able to see the rest of the fleet. As he looked in the direction of the mines he was startled by the first explosion. It was then followed by the rest of the explosions. Red balls of fire covered the empty space. The eight explosion they sat had now all been activated, but he continued to see more mines being destroyed. It had worked. The after shock of the explosions then was apparent with a thin blue line screaming fast on a horizontal line toward the Hope. "Red Alert!" Calvin yelled. Seconds later the after shock hit the USS Hope, and placed it on a vertical stance. As it did so it increased its speed to full impulse. The primary lights went out on the bridge, and a few consoles sparked. "Structural Integrity failing." Reported Ensign Knightley. "Ensign Brownlee," was all Calvin had to say. He watched the CONN officer quickly get to work on his console. (reply Brownlee) The Hope was no longer in a condition to fight. They needed to be protected and needed help. They were sitting ducks with no shields, weapons, or defensive measures. "Send a distress signal to the Paladin." The bridge suddenly shook as the ship was hit by a strong phaser by Starbase 234. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0923) Lt Cmdr Capps then turned to his tactical officer. "Mr. Apar when we see the rest of the fleet..and the Paladin has messaged us back. Set the devices off immediately." K'Palla's blood started to boil as the anticipation of battle loomed closer. With a grin she looked to Ensign Durron. "Now the fun begins!" Kyp shook his head and laughed as he opened his eyes to look at the ensign, "Gotta love that about Klingons. You all always laugh at some really grim situations." K'Palla glanced back over at K'yp as the action started. "Grim? This is the best time of a Klingon's life!" Kyp gave a small laugh then went quiet with the rest of the crew. He was monitoring the status of the ship as they passed the mines. He perked up when Lt. Commander Capps said something to Ensign Brownlee "Ensign Brownlee slow down to half impulse," Lt Cmdr Capps ordered, trying to buy more time. The bridge got quiet. Deathly quiet.The only thing that broke the tension was a sudden motion from Ensign Knightley at the Ops station. She ran her fingers on the board not stating immediately what she was doing. Every eye was on her. "The Paladin and the fleet has received the message. Continue as plan sir." Commander Capps wasted no time. "Ensign Apar, blow the mind. Rear view!" he ordered to the separate officers. He wanted to see the explosion of the mind field. (Reply Apar) The view screen switched to rear view. Kyp didn't pay it much mind. He brought the shields up, knowing the ship would be hit hard by the aftershock, which was apparent with a thin blue line screaming fast on a horizontal line toward the Hope. "Red Alert!" Calvin yelled. Seconds later the after shock hit the USS Hope, and placed it on a vertical stance. As it did so it increased its speed to full impulse. The primary lights went out on the bridge, and a few consoles sparked. "Structural Integrity failing." Reported Ensign Knightley. "Ensign Brownlee," was all Calvin had to say. He watched the CONN officer quickly get to work on his console. (reply Brownlee) "Send a distress signal to the Paladin." Calvin said as the bridge suddenly shook as the ship was hit by a strong phaser by Starbase 234. Kyp rerouted some power to activate a few key panels. He managed to reset the power flow through the ship after a few minutes, but it was extremely weak. The shields had been all but destroyed after the shock, and were down to 18%. They wouldn't last long if they didn't get out of here. He couldn't bring the weapons on, but the communications were working at least. He turned his head to look at K'Palla, "What do Klingons have to say about this?" (reply K'Pall) He sat back in his chair and waited to see if they would be saved or if they would be destroyed. They had accomplished thier mission and had opened up a hole for the fleet to come through in. He sank into a meditation, then called down to engineering, =/= Alura, can you get anything more out of the warp core? =\= (reply Rathyn) =/= I figured as much. Let's hope we live to talk about this. =\= Kyp sat back then and smiled. At least he was going down in battle. (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Red Claw - Cockpit - Lt Major Menelian - 09:24) =^=Commodore to the Fleet, commence attack. Attack Cruisers and Interceptors punch us a hole. Dragon Slayers and Fighting Whatever's, form up and engage enemy fighters. Starquest and Republic back them up.=^= Menelian cracked his knuckles in his flight gloves and took a solid grip on his stick. The grin behind his helmet was large, and evil, as evil a smite as man or Romulan had ever smiled. His HUD was going positivley mad with targets, he'd already had his AI Imogene filter out all but the fighters. It was time. "Dragon lead to all fighters. Break and attack, all wings break and attack. Tally Ho- Tally Ho- Tally Ho!" "HA!" he said once the line was closed and he looked at the HUD. It was suddenly mass-chaos as the battle-groups engaged and phaser-fire was traded back and forth. He kicked on the after-burner as the Dragon-slayers began drifting from eachother so as not to provide a packed target for the enemy fighters. His wingman formed on his wing without a word said, Menelian only had to turn his head to see that. =/=Dragon 5, engaging.=\= As if on que, almost every other fighter called the same as the fighter squadrons mixed. Menelian's grin only got wider as he suddenly spun his fighter around when a fighter pair shot over his canopy without firing a shot. The afterburner gripped immediately and he was slung hard into his seat in full persuit of the two. [That wasn't good on the stablizers Menelian] Imogene said in something approaching a peevish voice. The Romulan ignored her for once, he was to happy to snap at her this moment. He hadnt been in massive space-bourne combat in far to long, THIS was what he was born to do. His target jinked, but Menelian followed, carefully squeezing phaser-shots when he could. His four phaser cannons were firing in single-shot rapid pattern, that way he never had a moment when fire wasn't flying from his craft during each phasers re-charge period. His smile evaporated into one of concentration as he jinked with the enemy fighter again and took a few more pieces out of the fighters shields. "This one's good." He mused as he pulled back hard on his throttle and flung his fighter over at a spin manuver that would have rammed him head-first into a torpedo. The Romulan narrowed his eyes slightly and, from a relative stop, slammed his throttle full and hit the afterburners again... jumping ahead of the enemy fighter. He spun and aped the other fighters manuver, launching a quantum torpedo followed by saturation phaser fire. The fighter caught most of it and spun as it was knocked sprawling, its stabilizers unable to compensate. The craft exploded a moment later when his wingman's fire lanced into it as well. =/=Splash one!=\= came over his comm from Jenkins, the wingman. "Go splash another!" The Romulan barked as inertia caught up to him when he swung his fighter around yet again. He focused on another target high on his Z-axis and pulled his nose up to meet it. This one was already chasing one of his fighters, this one from the Fighting Whatevers, and Menelian growled as the rear of that friendly fighter suddenly stared streaking engine coolant. He barred his teeth and kicked up his speed a titch more, targeting the enemy fighter the hole time. He changed his phaser-fire configuration to quad-linked, hoping to pop the bugger quick, and readied a torpedo. Moments later he was in range, 0 deflection, and he pulled both weapons triggers with savage glee. The enemy fighter twisted hard and only caught half of the shots sent to him, but Menelian twisted with him and brought his weapons back to bare. The enemy fighter exploded moments later under the full barrage. The Romulan gave a savage war-woop as he flew through the wreckage. He twisted the fighter around to look for another target when something caught his eye. A hole had been blasted in the enemy lines, other ships seemed to be scrambling to fill it, but so far... Menelian narrowed his eyes suddenly as he watched two ships from his side suddenly break away from combat and make way for that hole. They were two of the uglist ships he'd ever seen, and there were only two like them in this battle group. "It looks like the MEF is breaking away for the base." He said. [Agreed, but they're operating under total communications blackout so I am unable to confirm. This was, however, in the basic order-of-battle you loaded in me.] "Bah!" he said, mostly for Imogene, as he opened a channel to the Fighters. "Dragon Lead to all fighters, work your way to that hole and provide some small-craft cover for the Marines! And watch for any of the bigger ships that try to break off and engage them. If any do, sting em!" he barked into the line. "Imogene, plot an intercept course." [Done] His HUD was going mad at all the debris, fire and ships in the area. Menelian cursed as his proximity alarm went off and an ememy fighter formed on his six. He jinked hard to the left and around a blasted off piece of starship debris. The enemy followed closely, this one was apparently well trained. He got one quick look at the two Marine transports in time to see several photon-shots from both Marine ships as they plowed away from the battle at high impulse. ~those would be the CE's in Marine Boarding Torps~ he thought quietly. "Get em there," he said to his fighters, though the comm wasn't open. He jinked again with the fighter on his back, now more intent on his life then the Marines. (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Paladin - Bridge - TAC/SC Kerge - 09:24) "Sir, the Hope has been hit bad by the minefield blast wave, Starbase 234`s defensive armaments have now come online & are actively targetting her", said Kerge. (Reply CO) "Aye sir, plotting a tactical course & feeding it to helm", said Kerge, "acquiring starbase defensive shield generators & targetting....quantum torpedoes away sir", he added as the Paladin let fly a volley of torpedoes towards starbase 234. They struck with deadly accuracy & dropped the shields of the starbase appreciably as two of the generators shut down. "Target shields are at sixty eight percent sir, the marines are engaging", said Kerge. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================= (USS Hope - Deck 1, Bridge - ACONN Ensign (jg) Christian Soval Brownlee and ATAC/ASC Ensign (jg) Rana Apar - 09:24) Christian sat at his post at helm. Once they had gotten past the beginning of the minefield, and Capps had answered the trick question correctly, he, along with everyone else on the bridge, it seemed, had breathed a collective sigh of relief. As they cleared the minefield, Capps spoke up. "Ensign Brownlee slow down to half impulse." "Aye, sir, half impulse," he said, punching in a few commands. Ensign Knightley spoke up next. "The Paladin and the fleet has received the message. Continue as planned sir." Capps turned towards Ensign Apar, who by this time was looking very tense. "Ensign Apar, blow the mines. Rear view!" "Aye, sir." She changed the viewscreen to face the cloaked minefield. The serenity was completely shattered once she punched in the detonation command, only to be replaced with what she described as hell-fire. Then, once it was over, her eyes widened as she saw a horizontal blue line radiating from the minefield. "Sir, level five shockwave headed right for us!" "Red Alert!" Rana pressed the alert command function, and the klaxons sounded. Then, the bridge rocked as the shockwave hit them. Primary lights went down, and Ensign Knightley said, "Structural Integrity failing!" She wasn't joking. "Ensign Brownlee," Capps said, not bothering to finish. "Helm's growing unresponsive, I can't steer her worth a damn! We're completely adrift!" "Send a distress signal to the Paladin." Rana was about to signal the Paladin when she noticed something. "Sir, the Starbase is firing at us!" The ship shook, and then she said, "Shields down to 72%!" (posted by Spencer) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge, CO Captain Eva Straton, 0925) "Sir, the Hope has been hit bad by the minefield blast wave, Star base 234`s defensive armaments have now come online & are actively targeting her", said Kerge. "Brig us about,"Eva said, still seated. "Put us between the Hope and the Star Base. Target the Star Base and fire, then bring us within transporter range of the Hope." "Aye sir, plotting a tactical course & feeding it to helm", said Kerge, "acquiring starbase defensive shield generators & targeting....quantum torpedoes away sir, " he added. "Target shields are at sixty eight percent sir, the marines are engaging", said Kerge. Eva pressed a button opening her direct line to StratOps. "Order the Langley, Horizon, and Kronos to move in and give the marines support fire," Eva ordered. "We have to take down their shields so the marines can board." (Reply Rulestaad) "Mr. O'Connor," Eva said, looking at the Ensign briefly before looking back at the main view screen where the crippled Hope was quickly drawing closer. "Once we are in range, I want you to extend our shields around the Hope and lock on a tractor beam. Then you will need to mass beam everyone off the Hope. Transport them to Cargo Bay 3 and alert medical teams there to be ready in case any of them are injured." "Captain," Sarouk said, turning from the Engineering station. "Extending our shields around the Hope will weaken our over all shield strength. Given our current power demands, we will not be able to maintain a tractor lock long without a drop in phaser strength." "We don't need to maintain it long," Eva replied, "Just long enough to get everyone off that ship. We will then disengage the tractor and return shield to standard configuration." She looked at O'Connor. "Work fast Ensign." (Reply O'Connor) "Mr. Kerge," Eva said, turning to look at the TAC\SC. "I want a full spread of quantum and photon torpedo's ready. Target any nearby enemy ships and hammer them hard to keep them off balance." (Reply Kerge) Eva leaned back in her chair and watched the screen as the Paladin swooped in on the powerless Hope. "Your on Ensign," She said, not taking her eyes off the screen. The Paladin swooped over the top of the Hope, phaser's blasting and launching a swarm of torpedo's as she extended her shields and locked at tractor beam on the Hope with out slowing down. O'Connor was hunkered down over his console, his hands moving quickly. Sweat could be seen running down his brow. There was a baited moment while everyone waited. "Got them!" O'Connor said, suddenly. "Drop tractor, and return shields to standard configuration," Eva ordered. "Now bring us about. Bring us within range of the Star Base and commence firing." (posted by Wes) ========================================================================================================================= (USS Hope, Bridge, ACSO Ensign JG K'Palla, 0925) K'Palla's blood started to boil as the anticipation of battle loomed closer. With a grin she looked to Ensign Durron. "Now the fun begins!" Kyp shook his head and laughed as he opened his eyes to look at the ensign, "Gotta love that about Klingons. You all always laugh at some really grim situations." K'Palla glanced back over at K'yp as the action started. "Grim? This is the best time of a Klingon's life!" Kyp gave a small laugh then went quiet with the rest of the crew. He was monitoring the status of the ship as they passed the mines. He perked up when Lt. Commander Capps said something to Ensign Brownlee "Ensign Brownlee slow down to half impulse," Lt Cmdr Capps ordered, trying to buy more time. The bridge got quiet. Deathly quiet.The only thing that broke the tension was a sudden motion from Ensign Knightley at the Ops station. She ran her fingers on the board not stating immediately what she was doing. Every eye was on her. "The Paladin and the fleet has received the message. Continue as plan sir." Commander Capps wasted no time. "Ensign Apar, blow the mind. Rear view!" he ordered to the separate officers. He wanted to see the explosion of the mind field. (Reply Apar) The view screen switched to rear view. Kyp didn't pay it much mind. He brought the shields up, knowing the ship would be hit hard by the aftershock, which was apparent with a thin blue line screaming fast on a horizontal line toward the Hope. "Red Alert!" Calvin yelled. Seconds later the after shock hit the USS Hope, and placed it on a vertical stance. As it did so it increased its speed to full impulse. The primary lights went out on the bridge, and a few consoles sparked. "Structural Integrity failing." Reported Ensign Knightley. "Ensign Brownlee," was all Calvin had to say. He watched the CONN officer quickly get to work on his console. (reply Brownlee) "Send a distress signal to the Paladin." Calvin said as the bridge suddenly shook as the ship was hit by a strong phaser by Starbase 234. Kyp turned his head to look at K'Palla, "What do Klingons have to say about this?" "It is a good day to die, K'yp, but the day is not yet over!" quoted the Klingon female. K'Palla waited for whatever would happen next. If she were to die here and now, she would be honored by her House. Hopefully, those pe'taH might try to take the ship back. And if they did, K'Palla would be waiting for them. (posted by John) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0925) The bridge shook hard, and Calvin knew it would not be long before the ship buckled, and was destroyed by Starbase's weapons. The tactical officer on the Starbase probably fired on the Hope with revenge, and determination to kill every officer on board. "More bad news: the shield energizers took some damage. Good news: it's minimal and reparable. Bad news: it will take several minutes to bring their power back up and we can only hope for enough time," reported Alura. "We only need to hold our Shields up for as long as you can!" "Only alternative of immediate escape would mea risking a quick warp jump on two conduits. In their present condition, I wouldn't guarantee a high margin of survivability, not until we've had a chance to check them VERY thoroughly." She emphasized the last crisply. "No need, and I will not take that risk. Hold the shields together until the Paladin get here." Calvin said as the ship was blasted away by a torpedo. The bridge violently shook. Calvin fail to the floor. He put his palms down on the floor and pushed himself back up. As he stood, a console at one of the secondary engineering station blew. Flames began to grow at a rapid speed. Officers quickly came on the bridge to put out the fire, but smoke began to fill the bridge. With the shields down to less than 30 percent now there was no more power for the ventilation system to come on, and clear the smoke. Seconds later as Calvin got his eye sight back, he witnessed another explosion, but it was at Elizabeth's console. He ran to her station, and found her body lying on the ground with blood oozing out. As he began to call for a Doctor he felt the pull of the transporter beam on him, and watched Ensign Knightley being materialized. (posted by Calvin) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Bridge - TAC/SC Kerge - 09:26) "Mr. Kerge," said the Captain, "I want a full spread of quantum and photon torpedo's ready. Target any nearby enemy ships and hammer them hard to keep them off balance.", she added. "Aye sir, I have three contacts bearing one ninety mark two four, a firing solution has been plotted, awaiting your mark", said Kerge. All eyes were now on the viewscreen as the Paladin homed in on the hope whilst fighters swarmed around their location in heavy combat with Major Menellians agile flyers. Within minutes, O'Conner had signalled that they had the hope in the tractor beam, the Captains hand was up in readiness, she then brought it down fast to indicate action & Kerge let fly with the torpedoes at the three ships that were already moving off towards the tractored hope. All the torpedoes made contact, the Sovereign class vessel taking the biggest brunt of the Paladins artilliary to take her shields down to thirty percent, she then broke off her attack, as did the others to allow the Paladin to continue in her task of bringing her crew back home again. The reprieve was not to last though for they were already regrouping, Kerge re-targetted them appropriately & kept them at bay for as long as he could with the ventral & dorsal phaser arrays. (posted by Alan) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Bridge - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0927) "Send a distress signal to the Paladin." Calvin said as the bridge suddenly shook as the ship was hit by a strong phaser by Starbase 234. Kyp turned his head to look at K'Palla, "What do Klingons have to say about this?" "It is a good day to die, K'yp, but the day is not yet over!" quoted the Klingon female. Kyp saw the Paldadin moving over them. He checked the sensors he had available to him and saw that she put her shields around the Hope. (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Patton - Marine Staging - MCO Conner Tirrel - 09:28) "Men and women of the Patton! For your families... for your homes... for your loved ones... ", came the rallying command from General Michelle leah Roberts. The hair stood up on the backs of those marines that responded to such rally`s as these, those that did not found their motivation as they always had done, the simple desire to keep living in this hell hole of a universe that had been created by the likes of men such as Doenitz. As the doors to the starbase swung open however, each of their own personal hells & vendettas broke lose as the massed defence of the starbase already stationed & waiting on the other side of them greeted them head on. Somewhere in the distance, the MCO heard the voice of the general once again. "FORWARD to VICTORY!" And then they were moving. Phaser rifles, scatter guns & grenades were directed or otherwise lobbed into the approaching mass of bodies now confronting them, the resultant explosions & phaser discharges smashed & disintegrated the fragile bodies & blew them in all directions amidst the loading bay as they met their attackers full on. All at once, the marines began to move methodically forwards, some of their numbers falling in the first assault as they pushed on relentlessly. Each time the enemy retaliation increased, they hit the deck for cover, those that didn`t do so hit the deck anyway & sometimes they didn`t get up again. The Marines moved in coordinated waves now, their training showing their expertise in their assault as they pushed further on. The mortar teams quickly took up positions to the sides, deploying wherever they were able to make the most of their weaponry as they attempted to clear the way ahead for their comrades as they advanced up the middle. Conner raised his mark 111 as a group of Doenitz`s men advanced, then he took out four of those men in rapid succession before falling to his knees to take out another three as they in turn moved to take up the postions of those that had fallen before them. The MCO then sank low to assess his next move as those about him did likewise. In the distance, one of the marines had just thrown a grenade primed to the hilt ahead of them, each of them knew the outcome of such an act & almost all ducked for cover just before the device exploded & filled the area with a bright flash & a cloud of thick smoke. Clearly many men had died from that one, bodies were seen to be littered across the decking as the smoke cleared a little, their arms & legs blown off or dragging from the torso`s of those that still lived & breathed amidst the carnage of the small war unfolding all around them. For those that had only heard of the depravity of the Admiral beforehand, this was indeed a baptism of fire, war was always ugly & they were now facing it up close in all of it`s ugly personality. Conner stopped & spoke into his comm briefly as he looked about him indicating tactical assignments to those with him as he did so, it was clear that they had to take this section now if they were to have any chance of progressing up through the Starbase itself. If they lost here, & that of course was not an option, the recapture of this base would have just become a damn sight harder than any of them wished it to be. Now it was time for Conner to rally his men, he had told them he had considered this a victory already, now it was time to make it real. "Do or die, let`s get this job done n dusted now!!", cried Conner & together they advanced onto their enemy once again. (posted by Alan) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Hope - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign Alura Rathyn - 0929) =^= Alura, can you get anything more out of the warp core? =^= The question didn't surprise Alura Rathyn. Quite the contrary, she'd been dreading the call from the Hope's commanding officer as she and her engineering crew worked at breakneck speed to keep the ship from bursting at the seems. "It will be a few minutes," Ensign Rathyn answered sharply, then she calmed her flaring temper. She was looking over the readouts of the warp system displayed on her panel with no great optimism. "Two of the anti-matter transition conduits collapsed when the shock wave hit us and they'll have to be replaced. THAT will take more time than we have now, so we're putting a lot of demand on the other two." =^= I figured as much. Let's hope we live to talk about this. =^= "More bad news: the shield energizers took some damage. Good news: it's minimal and reparable. Bad news: it will take several minutes to bring their power back up and we can only hope for enough time." (Reply: Capps) "Only alternative of immediate escape would mea risking a quick warp jump on two conduits. In their present condition, I wouldn't guarantee a high margin of survivability, not until we've had a chance to check them VERY thoroughly." She emphasized the last crisply. (posted by David) ========================================================================================================================= (USS George S Patton - Staging Center 1 - Brigadier General Michelle Leah Roberts - 0930) =/=10 minutes to contact, Starbase main weaponry has just gone down! CE's report heavy resistance. Commander Rulestaad reports that we're getting some heavy support. =\= This was it. The attack was beginning. She checked out her HUD, which had been tied into the ships sensors, and looked at the mighty fleet of Marine vehicles that had gathered. There were Gryphon Class 'Sod Hoppers', Stallion class shuttles, Deltas, and various other combat-oriented shuttles... all filled to capacity with Marine and Tactical Troops. "And so it begins..." she said to herself. She took a deep breath and whispered, "All Com." Into her mic, the short command that opened communications with all the Marines in the Expeditionary Force. "Men and Women of the Marine Expeditionary Force." She began. "This is the first of many battles in the war to reclaim our homes. You've all heard the reasons, for the greater glory of the Federation and Starfleet. For your home planets... but these reasons aren't the only ones. Think of your parents, your children, your sisters and brothers... all under the barrel of a phaser. Think of your homes, burning. Think of your cities, leveled. Think of the parks you used to play in as garbage dumps, the schools you attended as places of fear. These are not images I like, I can imagine my native Boston in flames and my loved ones slaughtered. Hold onto that image, men and women, because that is exactly what is happening. You are not fighting for the Federation at large, you are fighting for your small piece of it... it's been taken from you... GO GET IT BACK!" She looked at the mission chronometer. "Men and women of the 1st Expeditionary Force, what do we say?" "ALL THEIR DAYS ARE NUMBERED, VICTORY OR DEATH!" echoed through the ships and shuttles, followed by the rumbling 'HOO WAHs' torn from every throat. Some were nervous, some were excited, some deadly sharp. Michelle nodded to herself as she turned her attention to the HUD and the sensor tie. The secondary weapons of the station were firing madly, trying to beat off the rush. Sod Hoppers, Stallions, Delta Flyers, Martini Shakers of death and the Roger Young class vessels were all approaching at break-neck speed, zig-zagging to avoid fire. It was a grand sight, one she hadn't seen often, it wasn't often that so many Marines were needed in such a desperate attack. She watched as one of the Sod Hoppers exploded beside her ship from one of the secondary defense phasers, its heavy shielding had glowed with fire it was taking before they had finally failed. Someone on the station was finally getting their wits about them and concentrating fire. The secondary might be able to take out her ship, or the other Roger Young, but not before all the Sod-Hoppers and shuttles made it aboard (and vice versa). She had split her forces like this for a very good reason. The light at the enlarged airlock went from red to yellow, telling the men they were getting close. All the soldiers, already keyed up, gripped their phasers tighter. Some charged up their scatter-guns, others readied a grenade or two. =/=Contact!=\= rang out on her headpiece on a command frequency. One of the Stallion shuttles had made it to the station first, his call was echoed a dozen more times as other shuttles and a couple sod-hoppers made it. Some blasted their way into shuttle-bays, destroying the doors and force-fields so their fully EVO/C'd Marines could disembark. Others attached themselves to airlocks and either hacked or blew their way into the station. =/=20 seconds=\= the Captain of the Patton said in her ear. The ship was slowing quickly while spinning on all three of its axis to present its airlocks to mate with the station. Her XO had heard the same call, to which he bellowed "TWENTY SECONDS!" "God go with us." She muttered to herself as the ship suddenly lurched. The airlocks popped open. The station doors would take a good fifteen more seconds to pop, so she went to a channel in which only the Marines on her ship could hear her. "Men and women of the Patton! For your families... for your homes... for your loved ones... " The station doors popped open, just in time for her to bellow "FORWARD to VICTORY!" her call was taken up by every squad CO as the thousands of Marines and Security on the Patton jumped out of the doors and into the station, where already resistance was being met. "DO YOU WANNA LIVE FOREVER?" (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin, Bridge - COPS Ensign (jg) Michael Ian O'Connor - 0930) "Mr. O'Connor," Eva said, looking at the Michael briefly before looking back at the main view screen. "Once we are in range, I want you to extend our shields around the Hope and lock on a tractor beam. Then you will need to mass beam everyone off the Hope. Transport them to Cargo Bay 3 and alert medical teams there to be ready in case any of them are injured." "Captain," Sarouk said. "Extending our shields around the Hope will weaken our over all shield strength. Given our current power demands, we will not be able to maintain a tractor lock long without a drop in phaser strength." "We don't need to maintain it long," Eva replied, "Just long enough to get everyone off that ship. We will then disengage the tractor and return shield to standard configuration." She looked at O'Connor. "Work fast Ensign." "Aye, Aye sir," Michael said, taking a deep breath. "Mr. Kerge," Eva said, turning to look at the TAC\SC. "I want a full spread of quantum and photon torpedo's ready. Target any nearby enemy ships and hammer them hard to keep them off balance." "Your on Ensign," She said, not taking her eyes off the screen. Michael nodded and quickly extended the shields and grabbed the Hope with the tractor beam. He activated the emergency over ride on every transporter, and quickly switched the cargo bay transporters over to quantum level transporting. Using the Hope's command codes, he quickly synched their transporter lock on sensors to decrease the lock on time, he also cross linked the lateral sensor arrays into the transporters to boost the sensitivity of the pattern locking mechanisms. He routed all the excess and emergency power he could manage without over loading the Power grid to make sure he could use every single transporter at the same time. He worked as fast as he could, slaving all of the transporters to his console, as soon as he locked onto a full transporter load, the locks were handed off to the first transporter in line, while he had the computer continuing to scan and collect more locks. He had the computer working much much faster than any human could, and in a matter of a minute he managed to get locks on everyone on the Hope. "Got them!" O'Connor said, suddenly as he mopped his brow with his uniform sleeve. "Drop tractor, and return shields to standard configuration," Eva ordered. "Now bring us about. Bring us within range of the Star Base and commence firing." Michael cut the tractor beam and returned the power usage to what it was prior to the transporting. "Ops to Doctor Keller. Be advised, The skeleton crew of the Hope have been beamed to Cargo Bay three, sensors show injuries amongst the crew." (posted by Patrick) ======================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Transporter room 3 - Lt Cmdr Capps - 0932) Calvin found himself back on the Paladin, in one of the transporter rooms. He saw Elizabeth in his hands, and quickly tapped his combadge. "Dr. Keller, we have injured in transporter room three!" (posted by Calvin) ========================================================================================================================= (USS George S Patton - Staging Center 1 - 3rd Lieutenant Joseph Darren Jackson - 0933) His men were poised for action as was Joe himself, all waited in near deafening silence as the Patton manuevered to her assigned position. Through his external audial hookups Joe detected the sounds of the inertail dampeners as the ship danced through enemy fire. ~It won't be long now, either we'll be in our assigned positions or drifting unawares through space, there is no in between, victory or death.~ The crackle of the com coming from the CO of the force gave him pause as he forced himself to concentrate on her words over his own thoughts. =/= Men and Women of the Marine Expeditionary Force. This is the first of many battles in the war to reclaim our homes. You've all heard the reasons, for the greater glory of the Federation and Starfleet. For your home planets... but these reasons aren't the only ones. Think of your parents, your children, your sisters and brothers... all under the barrel of a phaser. Think of your homes, burning. Think of your cities, leveled. Think of the parks you used to play in as garbage dumps, the schools you attended as places of fear. These are not images I like, I can imagine my native Boston in flames and my loved ones slaughtered. Hold onto that image, men and women, because that is exactly what is happening. You are not fighting for the Federation at large, you are fighting for your small piece of it... it's been taken from you... GO GET IT BACK! Men and women of the 1st Expeditionary Force, what do we say? =/= "ALL THEIR DAYS ARE NUMBERED, VICTORY OR DEATH!" Shouted Joe along with thousands of other throats, this was right along the lines of what he had been ruminating on, there was no middle ground in a space battle, you either won or very often died a horrible death, phaser, the pseudo vacuum of space, it didn't matter, nothing mattered; Only winning and surviving, the life of a StarFleet marine. "HOO WAH!" The cry seemed to take his voice with it as he threw back his head and shouted. ~Does shouting improve your chances of victory? No but it sure as hell feels good.~ The cries also raised the adrenaline level and he would need all the edge he could get. The Patton rocked as a vessel nearby exploded. ~Poor bastards.~ He had grabbed his scattergun in his left hand after clipping his Mark III to his BDU, it was set on 12 which would burn through armor without completely disintegrating the target which was a more efficient use of power. In minutes he felt the deceleration and inertia which wasn't completely subdued by the ships dampeners.There was the tick of the seconds, perhaps minutes which flew by before the lamp on the airlock went to yellow, Joe felt sweat trickle down beside his left eye as he still grimly waited, his right hand now held a photon grenade which he would lob in ahead of him, it was set on low yield so it wouldn't blow the bulkhead around them. Still the wait drew out as the Patton continued to manuever. Then there was a clang and the Patton lurched, Joe flexed his knees slightly to absorb the change of momentum as the lamp at the airlock jumped to green. As he waited for the stations doors to be blown he heard her again. =/= Men and women of the Patton! For your families... for our homes... for your loved ones... =/= There were the doors, Joe heard her call as he was roaring at his troops and leaping forward. =/=FORWARD to VICTORY!=/= "Forward to victory!" Joe shouted as phaser fire lit the air ahead and the deadly whine of the beams buzzed, around him men fell as he zig-zagged to the lock and dropped on his belly, launching the grenade as he did so, the next line was coming even with him as multiple explosions rumbled inside the station and mini shock-waves blew through the port, there was that voice in his com again. =/=DO YOU WANNA LIVE FOREVER?=/= (posted by Charles) ====================================================================================================================== (USS Paladin - Cargo Bay 2 - ACEO Ensign (jg) Kyp Durron - 0934) He smiled at K'Palla as they were beamed into one of the Paladin's cargo bays. When they rematerialized on teh Paladin he smiled at her and said, "See, I told you we'd get out of there. And you were so ready to die. HA!" (tag K'Palla) "Well, we've still got a lot of Doenitz's forces to kill. Let's go!" Kyp ran out of the cargo bay and headed for engineering. He saw Alura coming down the deck and held the turbolift open for her, "Excellent job with the bombs, 'Lura." (reply Rathyn) They both rushed into engineering. Kyp saw that Sarouk wasn't there, so he went up to Ensign Tristen, "Ensign. Where are we needed right now?" (reply Tristen) "Well," he grinned at the two of them, "I hope you have enough blood and spit to help hold this ship together." (posted by Ben) ======================================================================================================================= (USS George S Patton - Bridge - Brigadier General Michelle Leah Roberts - 0935) "Weapons, concentrate fire on that blasted Sovereign!" the Captain yelled. Michelle, in her command BDU, crossed her arms as she watched the bridge-crew engage in battle. They were part of this space-fight for now, and they would be until they could break through and find a hole to jump through. The ship shuddered under fire and its shields shown bright for a few seconds before the ships own weapons could take down the source of their pain. Her expression was neutral as she watched a Defiant take a few photon hits from the Marine ship. "There's a hole, punch through it!" the Captain bellowed suddenly. Michelle turned her head to look at a tactical map of the battle. Indeed, the destruction of a Defiant class ship had opened a very real hole in the enemy lines. The Patton turned and its impulse engines fired hard at the hole the battle-group had made. Michelle nodded to herself and turned to her adjunct, "Status of all craft?" =/=All the Gryphons have reported ready, One of the Stallions reports minor trouble; they will have it under control in two minutes. All Delta's, Boarding Torps and Alphas are ready for launch.=\= Michelle nodded, "Prepare to launch all craft once we're past this." =/=Aye Sir.=\= The line closed and he continued speaking, this time preparing orders for launch. It was Michelle's intention to get every Marine she could off the two Gator Freighters, both to create more targets AND to save more Marines should any of the craft be hit. "Launch the Combat Engineers!" The Fleet Officer at the launching panel nodded and touched a couple buttons. Several dozen boarding torpedoes were launched, no different in appearance from any standard photon torpedo, at near-warp towards the enemy base. Michelle took a deep breath as she watched them all disappear; they were their one hope to take down the main weapons "Combat Engineers away, contact in 1.5 minutes." The Fleeter said. "We're taking fire from the rear!" the Tactical officer said. "Power to rear shields, target all ships firing on us!" The Captain said angrily. "Engineering, boost power to the engines!" "Aye aye Sir." The engineer said as the two Marine ships finally passed through the hole while taking strafing fire from several enemy vessels. Michelle shivered slightly and turned her heel. The Marine guard snapped to attention, "General leaving the bridge!" Michelle ignored him as she stepped into the turbolift, "Staging Center 1." (posted by Trout) ==================================================================================================================== (Starbase - Main Engineering, Engineering Control Center - CCE 1st Lt Robinson - 09:35) =/=I think they want this area back Lieutenant.=\= His XO said quietly as they both took shots at yet another squad coming into the cathedral-sized area that was Main Engineering on an Ornell class Starbase. Robinson merely grunted before saying, "Status on the invasion?" =^=ninety-five percent of all forces have landed, we've got a few platoons headed our way to relieve the pressure... if all is going right, that is.=^= "Right." Robinson said as he pulled back behind a console and ejected his drained power-clip. There were three dead CE's in this control center, all of them with bloody holds ripped through their armor, and a small handful of his backup Marines lying next to them. He looked at them as he grabbed for a new clip by habit. All but two of the Marines here were fighting to keep the surging forces away, since they were in the dead-middle of engineering and couldn't escape anyway. The other two were continually fighting against the enemy engineers who were trying to steal control of weapons and defenses away from engineering. He grinned lopsidedly as he slapped a fresh power cartridge into his phaser. The engineers would have a hard time doing that with the passwords changed; the two Marines not attacking were both hackers and crackers. Of course, weapons and defenses was ALL they had been able to bring down before the alerts went off madly. Robinson had also wanted main-power to go down. That would have made a counter-attack more difficult to muster in time. He spun back around and started taking shots at the incoming Marines... carefully, of course. Hitting a core the size of the one here would be... very spectacular. He wasn't having to try very hard, there was a veritable army trying to get at them. "Robinson to General Roberts, I could use a few more squads beamed in here before we loose Main Engineer's control center." Several seconds passed, not unexpectedly. The only reason he could talk directly to the General was because he commanded one of the first groups in on prime real-estate. Finally her voice crackled to life, =/=Ten minutes Marine, they've thrown a dampening field over the whole station. If you can bring it down I'll have a couple squads beamed to you directly.=\= "Understood, Robinson out." He took a couple more shots, "Did you get that, Guns?" =/=Workin' on it Lieutenant.=\= Robinson sighed as yet another Security Guard was made a bloody ruin. "Such a pretty little war." (posted by Trout) ======================================================================================================================== (Enemy station- Corridor - 3rd Lieutenant Joseph Darren Jackson - 0936) Joe shouted," Forward you apes!" As he jumped to his feet and followed the second line into the station, five men fell with gaping burns in their BDU but he continued his craw-fishing to the left and right as the deadly beams of ravening energy lanced around him, a man reared up before him several meters away lifting his weapon into position, Joe pulled the trigger of the scattergun and the man became a Raggedy-Ann doll, lolling loosely to the floor, three gaping burns clear through his body. This close to the front though the fire was too intense to charge straight forward without eating energy beams, he dropped as the scattergun recharged and the next line pushed forward. Men fell on both sides, screaming as they died. Joe grabbed another grenade, this time a flash-bang and threw it twenty meters down the corridor. The explosion was mild but it threw out a lot of light in an intense burst along with a huge "Bang" that stunned the enmy who were too close. The security force was holed up on both sides of the corridor making an intense crossfire that was slightly lessened by the grenade, it was going to take numbers to push through, ~Too many numbers, too many men killed.~ "Hit the floor now!" He shouted as he pulled another photon grenade from the bag, this one he hit twice with his finger arming it fully. ~We're far enough from the outer bulkheads... I hope.~ "Take cover!" He lobbed the grenade twenty meters ahead and heard the enemy scramble to protect themselves from another flash-bang as the Pattons marines dove aside into nooks, doors and behind debris, they were going to get a surprise. "VAROOOOOMMM" The explosion pushed white smoke ahead of it back in their direction and ahead as well, Joe felt himself blown onto his side and into the corridor wall, he bounced off of it and had to reorient himself, as he scrambled to his feet the smoke was clearing enough to see that the walls on either side of the corridor had been collapsed outward for fifteen meters diameter from the point of the explosion. There were cheers as the men pushed forward into a greatly reduced defensive force and began to overwhelm them. ~We can do this, we have to do this.~ "FORWARD MARINES!" =/= HOO WAH! =/= (posted by Charles) ================================================================================================================= (Starbase 234, somewhere on the Deck above Main Engineering - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 0940) (Starbase 234, somewhere on the Deck above Main Engineering - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 0940) Rellam and his squad worked their way down the corridor. He had lost one Marine so far, and things were not going easily, but then he didn't expect it. In the last few days Rellam had been training his squad in a combination of fast moving Recon fighting, as well as their standard Forward Assault styles. They had received orders from one of the internal commanders to make their way to engineering and lend some assistance there if they could, and so they moved quickly down the hallway to an access hatch that would get them into the tube adjacent to engineering. =/=all right,=/= Rellam said over his squad comm, =/= lets get in there and give see what we can do. Fire team bravo, drop into the top gangway and start providing cover to any of our folks. We are going to keep their heads down. Alpha team, I want you off the gang way and on the main deck as fast as you can to back up the men on the ground. Find whatever areas they can't cover and start pounding on anything that moves and isn't ours.=/= Rellam said, in which he got a single response...'in Gunny we trust'. (posted by Patrick) ==================================================================================================================== (Starbase 234, Upper level of main engineering - Gunnery Sergeant Rellam Tam - 0945) Rellam popped the hatch and dropped through onto the gang way bellow, his IFF systems quickly picked out the friendlies, and he quickly picked off a couple of folks who definitely weren't on that list. The rest of the Bravo fire team dropped in took a knee and let loose hell, while Alpha quickly secured some ropes to the gang way and came close to free falling to the main deck of Engineering, keeping themselves damn close to the core so as to discourage fire from the enemy. Rellam continued to fire as he opened a point to point comm line to the person listed as the boss. =/=Fire and Brimstone reporting, anything we can do to help, Sir?=/= Rellam said in a tight beam to the Lt. on the ground, his voice flat and cold, as he picked off two more men, and his Grenadiers, launched two rounds that convinced the enemy to slow down a little. (posted by Patrick) ===================================================================================================================== END OF COMPILE I hope you enjoyed!