USS Starfire Compile 3 Who'll Stop the Rain ==================== Mission: Who'll Stop the Rain Day 3-4 Stardate: 2414.11.09 to 2414.11.10 ==================== (Cargo Ship, C'Nell, Day 3, 0928) (Starfire, Bridge, Sanok, Day 3, 0930) (Cargo Ship, S'Yes, Day 3, 0933) (Starfire, Transporter Room 1, Signos, Day 3, 0934) (Majestic, Bridge, Matrix, Day 3, 1003) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Signos, Day 3, 1257) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Sanok, Day 3, 1300) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Zyahn, Day 3, 1306) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Day 3, C'Nell, 1308) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Zyahn, Day 3, 1309) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Signos, Day 3, 1310) (Starfire, Mess Hall, Zyahn, Day 3, 1311) (Starfire, Mess Hall, C'Nell, Day 3, 1313) (Starfire, Shuttle Bay, Signos, Day 3, 1820) (Starfire, Cargo Bay 1, Stone, Day 4, 1000) (Starfire, Cargo Bay 1, S'yes, Day 4, 1004) (Starfire, Ready Room, Matrix, Day 4, 1100) (Starfire, Sanok, Day 4, 1102) ==================== Mission: Who'll Stop the Rain Day 17 Stardate: 2414.11.23 ==================== (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Corey, Day 17, 1035) (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Stone, Day 17, 1105) (Starbase 989, Quarters, Andersen, Day 17, 1141) (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Signos, Day 17, 1730) ==================== (Cargo Ship, C'Nell, Day 3, 0928) C'Nell tapped his combadge "Yes sir, my scans of one of the containers indicates a radioactive substance of a type neither I nor the tricorder can immediately recognise" He paused for a moment; the silence seemed to indicate S'Yes was still wanting a further response or was puzzled and so he continued "I want to return to ship, analyse my scans in the ships science database; I also recommend we isolate the container; it could be dangerous." (Reply S'Yes) (Posted by Nathan) ----- (Starfire, Bridge, Sanok, Day 3, 0930) While the two Vilnian warships were approaching, Sanok had chosen not to try to communicate with them until they had arrived. He needed the time for his people to finish their investigations on the damaged ships, to return safely to the Starfire, and to brief him as much as possible. There had not been time for the teams to tell him everything, but he had enough to open a dialog with the Vilnian commanding officer. Stone had maneuvered the ship into position to face the incoming ships. Zyahn was manning the tactical 1 station to the left of conn, while Signos was at tactical 2 to the right. S'yes was behind him at operations. C'Nell was in the science lab, analyzing the scans of the radioactive material he found in the storage bin. Doctors Andersen and Skyfire were in sickbay, tending to the wounded Vilnian. Corey was behind and to the left of Sanok, covering the bridge engineering station. Lieutenant Zyahn had assigned Corey and Signos to study the data they had recovered, but Sanok temporarily overrode that order. He wanted his best people on the bridge for their first encounter with the Vilnians, especially if they thought the Starfire had attacked their comrades. When the Vilnian warships dropped out of warp, they took up positions, one in front of the Starfire, the other in a four o'clock position. "We're being hailed." "On screen," said Sanok. A Vilnian male appeared on the forward view screen. He was wearing a uniform similar to what those on the damaged warship were wearing. The color of his collar was dark blue. "I am First Commander Tamek, of the Vilnian ship, Gray Shadow." Tamek's introduction was a simple statement of fact. His tone was firm, and his face showed no emotion. Though seeing him only for a few seconds on a view screen, Sanok could see that the man carried himself in strength and authority. Sanok had been sitting, but he stood to his feet. "I am Captain Sanok, of the United Federation of Planets, commanding the USS Starfire." Tamek nodded. "Captain." There was a pause. "I see that you have responded to the distress signal sent by our people. Is there anything you can tell us?" There had been concern that the Vilnians might think the Starfire had attacked their ships. It was agreeable that they did not. It was clear they had conducted scans before their arrival. It was logical to assume they had some means to perform more efficient scans within the rift. It was also logical to say they had more knowledge of the Federation and Starfleet, than Sanok had on them. "First Commander, we sent rescue teams to search your vessels. All were killed, but one. He is here in our medical area, being treated by our doctors. We also found damaged sensor logs showing who may have been responsible for the attacks. You are welcome to everything we have." "Is it permissible for me to come to your ship?" said Tamek. "I would like to see everything for myself. I would also bring one of our doctors. and an escort." "Of course. When you are ready, we will beam you here." "Thank you, Captain. I will contact you again shortly." The transmission ended and the screen returned to a view of space and the ship facing them. "I will be in transporter room 1," said Sanok. "Lieutenant Zyahn, you have the bridge. Ensign Signos, you will accompany me." (reply any) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Cargo Ship, S'Yes, Day 3, 0933) S'yes was curious to learn what Skyfire and C'Nell had located. He messaged C'Nell and got a prompt reply. =^= Yes sir, my scans of one of the containers indicates a radioactive substance of a type neither I nor the tri-corder can immediately recognize=^= "Do you need to return to the Starfire to do analysis. If so, let them know before you return" the Caitian inquired. (Reply: C'Nell) He and Ensign James were still going over the bridge findings and probably would stay a bit longer. He looked at the scan data. It appeared that the crew had been removed as there were no signs of a protracted struggle. It appeared that someone had tried to mangle the logs. It had not been entirely successful. S'yes was sure they could recover data back on their ship. The vessel had held something of value but what? (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (Starfire, Transporter Room 1, Signos, Day 3, 0934) "I will be in transporter room 1," said Sanok. "Lieutenant Zyahn, you have the bridge. Ensign Signos, you will accompany me." Sanok spoke has he exited his chair and headed to the transporter room. Jessica made haste to work her way from the tactical station and follow the captain she understood why she was being chosen she had combat tactics and experiances that the rest of the crew had not. She could handle if the situation turned bad and she knew the captain did to. They entered the transporter room Jessica looked over th petty officer behind the controls. "As our guest are beamed over scan the transport stream for weapons I want to know what they are carring and how much they have with them." She then moved to the side her back against a the cool wall of the Starfire. She assumed the military position of parade rest folding her hands behind her back. This position allowed one hand to rest on the small hand phaser that rested at the small of her back. While her other hand was able to palm the handle of a knife that was hidden under the sleeve of her uniform. It did not take long for the room to be filled with a bright light and the delegation came abored the Starfire. (Reply Sanok) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Majestic, Bridge, Matrix, Day 3, 1003) "On screen." Ordered Kelvor. The brilliance and beauty of the rift was one of the wonders of the quadrant. It was hard to understand how something so wondrous could be so deadly. The stellar phenomenon in this region of space was puzzle to many in the scientific community in Star Fleet and many scholars in other galactic races. "Commander, we have arrived at the designated coordinates. However, we have not detected any ships in the area." Said Captain Kelvor as he turned toward Matrix sitting at the main engineering console. "Not surprising Captain. The rift and the Starfire's defensive hull are preventing us from detecting them." Replied Matrix. "Open hailing frequency." Ordered Kevlor. "Sir...if I may have a word with you before we attempt to contact the Starfire?" asked Matrix. "Belay that order comm...Matrix...in my ready room." "My apologies Captain, but my orders are to wait for the Starfire initiate contact with us." Stated Matrix standing at attention as Captain Kelvor took a seat behind his desk. "Commander, I've been ordered to deliver you to the Starfire and I just as soon do so and be on my way. I don't like being kept in the dark nor do I enjoy being a shuttle driver for some secret mission...or whatever it is you call this." Replied Kelvor. Matrix relaxed slightly, "Nor do I Captain. I appreciate your professionalism in this matter and I assure you I don't enjoy working under cloak and dagger, but I have my orders." "Well Commander....your orders are indeed direct from Star Fleet Command so I can't pry into it further and I trust if my ship and crew were to come into any danger you would be professional enough to provide me with any details I might need?" pondered Kelvor. "I would be bound to do so Captain, yes." Replied Matrix. "I suspect our wait will be short. Perhaps a few hours. With your permission I would like to take the engineering duty station on the bridge and wait until we hear from the Starfire?" asked Matrix. "Very well Mister Matrix. Take your station. We'll remain here until the Starfire contacts us. Dismissed." Ordered Kelvor. With that Matrix returned to the bridge, as he entered most of the bridge personnel gave a disapproving look and wondered what was next. The Majestic was a research ship, not a shuttle. Most realized that mission ordered often involved a bit of secrecy and all remained professional. "Commander, still no contact with the Starfire, no ships visible on short or long range scans." Replied the operations officer. "Lieutenant Groai, please discontinue vessel scans at this time. I assure you the Starfire knows we're here and will contact us in due time." Replied Matrix. Matrix took his seat at the rear engineering station hoping his wait would be short and he could brief Sanok. It would be good to be aboard serving with him again. The Starfire was going to be a challenge compared to the larger ships he served aboard in the past. (Reply none) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Signos, Day 3, 1257) Jessica made the small walk from her security office to the mess hall, where the meeting was to be taking place. She had with held from eating lunch for she did not wish to be making anouther trip and wasting time just waiting for the meeting to start. She made her way over to a replicator and ordered a chicken ceaser salad and a glass of milk a favorite of her to eat for lunch. Once she aquired her meal she found a table and seat in a corner of the room. She enjoyed her meal eating while she waited for the meeting to start. She made sure to save a seat for Thomas and smiled at him when he entered. (Reply any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Sanok, Day 3, 1300) Sanok stepped into the mess hall at precisely 1300 hours. When the senior staff saw him, everyone became silent. Because they were on a Defiant class, things were less informal, and there was less room, so there was no observation lounge, with a large table, to have a briefing. The mess hall would become their new place to meet. Sanok had taken Signos with him to meet the Vilnians. He had done this for two reasons. This was their first encounter with the Vilnians, so Sanok wanted to make a first impression of strength. A captain meeting another captain, and having his personal escort appear as a young girl, would cause the Vilnians to think about what they were seeing. Just how strong and able in combat are these Starfleet people, if a little girl protects their captain? It had the desired affect. Though the Vilnians had not said anything about Signos' physical appearance, Sanok had noticed the expressions on their faces and several glances between First Commander Tamek and his escort. Sanok had also chosen Signos as the first step in making a concerted effort to mend ways between them. Now that the Vilnians were gone, it was time to inform the others what had transpired. "Ensign Signos and I took First Commander Tamek, his escort, and their doctor, to sickbay to see their wounded man. He had lapsed into a coma, though before doing so, he tried to speak. It seemed he had become slightly animated seeing his comrades, but nothing he said was intelligible. Once the man was stabilized, the Vilnian doctor took him back to their ship via one of their stasis pods. "We then went to the science lab and I showed them the information we had gathered from the sensor logs from their damaged ships. They were as mystified as we about who may have attacked their ships. They did tell us that there are only five races that live in this section of the rift, so the choices would be limited. "Taking the Vilnians back to the transporter room, they hesitated before leaving. They are not a militaristic people; their society is based more on the pursuit of art, science, and technological achievements. They asked for our assistance in finding those that murdered their people. I agreed, but I also cautioned them that were limits as to what we could do. They were glad for anything we could do." Sanok paused for a moment. "Those of you that were on the bridge, know that the Vilnians left, taking their ships in tow. We will patrol this sector for the next several days, but if we do not find anything, we must return to our assigned duties." Sanok paused again. "Mister Corey, you have some familiarity here in the rift, is there anything you might suggest?" Sanok knew this briefing was short and almost pointless, but it was the first one they had together for a mission. He thought it was agreeable to begin forming a cohesion and a bond of working together. If nothing else, he had taken a step through the door that had been opened between him and Signos, and that could not be a bad thing. (reply Corey, any) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Zyahn, Day 3, 1306) Ayehla was almost happy that the Vilnians weren't able to identify who was on the video recording. Based on what Lieutenant Corey and Ensign Signos had found, the evidence on the video could maybe have to be questioned. She wouldn't have wanted they mislead the Vilnians. "Those of you that were on the bridge, know that the Vilnians left, taking their ships in tow. We will patrol this sector for the next several days, but if we do not find anything, we must return to our assigned duties." Sanok paused again. "Mister Corey, you have some familiarity here in the rift, is there anything you might suggest?" Ayehla gave a look at both Signos and Corey. They had made some interesting finding, but all was still hypothetical. Since, there was still nothing substantial to bring on the table, Ayehla had been reluctant to share the information with Sanok, but now that he was asking the question, perhaps it was time to inform him. "Sir, we did made some finding. Lieutenant Corey latest finding seems to suggest that, even if we do find out who those ships belongs to, we couldn't even jump to conclusion. Evidences are contradictory. Lieutenant Corey is currently finishing the analysis of the new pieces of evidence he and Ensign Signos discovered. Lieutenant." she said, knowing Corey would explain the situation far better than she could and with much more details. She had the skill to explain the energy pattern of the weapon system, but it was the ingenuity of Lieutenant Corey that allowed the finding. And it was a team work where, she had to admit, Lieutenant Corey and Ensign Signos did most of the work. They were the one who had to receive credits for the finding. (Reply Corey and/or Sanok) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Day 3, C'Nell, 1308) Having listened to the others C'Nell stood up to deliver his report; nodding at the captain to indicate his desire to speak. (Reply Sanok iyw) "I have made a preliminary examination of the substance I found on the freighter, and what I have discovered is, well interesting to see the least; it appears to be a mineral Quantium 40 or Q-40." He studied reactions before continuing; "its only findable in trace amounts in other rocks but it contains a complex crystalline structure that is often corrupted by other minerals present. This form of it though, the one in the freighter is the purified product. It is highly radioactive and unstable, 2 grams can kill a human within 15ft of it. A single mistake will result in explosion or irradiation. Captain, I want to know why they had it and I want it out of my labs!" C'Nell had an unusual aggression in his eyes, he glanced at Signos for a moment. He realised that she had talked with Sanok too. (Reply Sanok and any iyw) (posted by Nathan) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Zyahn, Day 3, 1309) There was still a question that was in Ayehla's mind. The Vilnian captain said he did not know who was the specie on the video, but what if he did? It was possible he knew who they were but didn't wanted the Federation to find out. After all, the Federation didn't seemed to have a very good reputation in this corner of the galaxy. So, while Lieutenant Corey was explaining the details of their findings, Ayehla took the opportunity to address the subject with ensign Signos. "Ensign, what if our guess actually knew who they were, but pretended they have no idea." said Ayehla. She knew she didn't have to say more for the ensign to give the order. (Reply Signos, iyw) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Signos, Day 3, 1310) Jessica listened to the converstation She nodded when the FO came to her and spoke about what she discovered on the warship. She listened to C'nell and she knew he was angered about her conversation between her and Sanok. Thomas knew Sanok carried little for Jessica, he knew from the mind meld what was true. That Jessica wanted to have no secrets between her and the one she loved. She stood to speak placing a comforting hand on C'nell's shoulder, "I just want to say if this material is so radioactive the sample we collected should be in a level 5 containment field." She looked to the engineer's in the room. "I was curious what can this material be used for, I ask this because I don't feel our current guest were not the most honest. First off any space fairing race has developed somekinfd of military, and most scientific advancements are developed for military use. With the wreakage that was found on the warship I believe the Vilnians in the process of making a weapon of mass distruction, a type of radioactive dirty bomb. And if so were they attacked for it or was it a weapon deal went south. Either way this is pretty obvious a well planned, exicuted, and sanctioned attack by the race that attacked them. Thus would be viewed has a act of war. A war we might not want to find ourselves in the middle of." She lowered herself back to her seat before listening to the rest of the meeting. (Reply any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, Zyahn, Day 3, 1311) "I was curious what can this material be used for, I ask this because I don't feel our current guest were not the most honest. First off any space fairing race has developed somekind of military, and most scientific advancements are developed for military use. With the wreckage that was found on the warship I believe the Vilnians in the process of making a weapon of mass destruction, a type of radioactive dirty bomb. And if so were they attacked for it or was it a weapon deal went south. Either way this is pretty obvious a well planned, executed, and sanctioned attack by the race that attacked them. Thus would be viewed has a act of war. A war we might not want to find ourselves in the middle of." said ensign Signos. The mention of a weapon of mass destruction unsettled Ayehla. She had reviewed lieutenant Corey finding and had seen any mention of such weapon, except in the most speculative part of the report...As the word speculation meant, there wasn't enough evidence yet to warrant such conclusion for the moment. Had they found something more they didn't say in the report? "You are right we don't want to be caught in the middle of it, yet they are in Federation space. It wouldn't look nicely if the Federation keep their eyes closed and their arms crossed when species on their territory were at war with each other. As much as we try to avoid interfering in other species affair, we still have responsibilities, and interest as to the outcome of this incident.". Ayehla also wanted to add 'yet, they did close their eyes since the Federation have absolutely no idea what is going in here despite being in their space. Perhaps Signos was right that the Federation didn't care. She didn't find it right somehow, but who would care about the opinion of a newly promoted first officer. "But what about this weapon of mass destruction you are referring to?" she asked. (Reply Signos) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Starfire, Mess Hall, C'Nell, Day 3, 1313) Before Signos could answer the question put to her, C'Nell interrupted; laying a hand on her to reassure her. "While I am a scientist and not a tactician, and while they are perhaps developing other weapons; I'd question why they'd use this material; it's expensive for a start-and requires a very convoluted for want of a better word system to refine; if they are making weapons out of it? Why? While it is deadly, there is cheaper alternatives for similar effect. Unless..." He dropped into thought for a few minutes, some turned their heads to him; expecting that he had finished. (Reply any iyw) He finally resumed "Unless they have made some discovery or designed some system in which Q-40 was the only answer, the only fuel that could be used; I don't know whether to run or confiscate the stuff" (Reply any) (Posted by Nathan) ----- (Starfire, Shuttle Bay, Signos, Day 3, 1820) The meeting in the chow hall ended some time ago. There was much to consider, and it seemed more was going to be at stake has the mystery on what had happened and why continued to grow. The more the Starfire learned the more questions they had. But it seemed the crew of the Starfire at least had a sense of direction and they were now on thier way to find out the next piece of a ever growing puzzle. Jessica however took the small amount of time to make her way to one of the shuttle bays. There were some small space to one side of the bay that security were allowed to take and use has a small training area, and that is were Jessica found herself. Standing surrounded by targets she shifted her wait easily from foot to foot. She moved her hand to one of her knifes mounted to her forearm. Then in a flash the first knife was off toward the target her body was already in motion as the first knife struck the target with a loud thud. She moved her arms wide as the second and third knifes found there marks one thrown from each of her slender hands. She twisted bringing her right arm up she turned bringing her arm down from over her head releasing blade that was found ita way into her palm. She watched the blade tumble end over end and then sink into its target just off the center bulls eye. She smiled looking at the timer, in no more than a few seconds four targets were down. She rose slowly unaware of the small crowd that had gathered around her. Most of them were new members of the crew that had never seen her in combat and knew little of her ability. Only in training she was able to use her full ability. If she let herself go in mission people would die. It was so when she fought the Borg a small woman standing in defiance, she slaughtered the drone, relishing the closness of hand to hand combat. Several times that mission she came close to death but she remembered it well. Never before had she felt so alive. She turned pulling two arm blades that she just had replicated, exact replicas of the ones that rested in her room. She turned to the gathered, "Anyone care to spare." (Reply any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Starfire, Cargo Bay 1, Stone, Day 4, 1000) Srone walked in to Cargo Bay 1. It was one of the biggest areas on the ship. Although they had the mess hall, Cargo Bay 1 was the biggest open space on board at this time. He had been asked by Signos to a sparring match with weapons which he had agreed to. He felt the weight of the 3 lb combat knife that was the standard issue of the Marine Corps which he had been given on his graduation from the academy. He also had an extendable variant ofTeral'na Romulan staff weapon which had two retracting blades at each end strapped across his back. He looked at Signos who was already there waiting for him. He knew that her smaller stature was deceiving and her youth would be an advantage but he had been a marine for longer then she had been alive so muscle memory would help. ~Pride before a fall Issac, pride before a fall.~ He stepped forward and nodded at Signos with a smile. “Morning, Ma’am. Are you ready for a bit of fun?“ (Reply Signos, any) (Posted by Robbie) ----- (Starfire, Cargo Bay 1, S'yes, Day 4, 1004) S'yes was curious about this activity called 'sparring' and wanted to watch. His species were originally aggressive and war-like. The combatants were a contrasting pair. One was a Sgt. Major with years of experience and the other was a young female officer. His enhanced senses were telling him she wasn't what she appeared to be. S'Yes took a seat well out the sparring area. They eyed each other and the Marine broke the silence first. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Starfire, Ready Room, Matrix, Day 4, 1100) The Majestic transported Matrix aboard the Starfire with out incident or fanfare. Matrix was happy to be back aboard the Starfire, but wished it was under difference circumstances. The urgency of this visit was exasperated by the delay in meeting with Captain Sanok. He tapped the red PADD with his finger as Sanok entered. (Reply Sanok) Matrix stood and addressed Sanok. "Good morning Captain. Its good to see you." said Matrix. (Reply Sanok) "My apologies for this intrusion sir, but I've been directed by Admiral Beckett to give you this message." he said handing the red PADD to Sanok. He stepped back to give the Captain some room. (Reply Sanok) "No sir, that is the entire message. We're to get the Starfire to Starbase 989 as soon as possible." replied Matrix. (Reply Sanok) "The Majestic will escort the Starfire back to 989 in the event problems." replied Matrix. (Reply Sanok) (Posted by Steve) ----- Mission: Who'll Stop the Rain Day 4 Stardate: 2414.11.10 (Starfire, Sanok, Day 4, 1102) Sanok had been walking security rounds on the Starfire, something he did everyday on the Rose. It was something that had been agreeable to him, and he didn't want to stop doing it. While walking today, he was thinking about many things. The previous day, the Starfire had responded to a distress signal, which led them to discovering two Vilnian ships that had been attacked, a freighter and its escort. Only one of the crew had survived, and the cargo had been stolen. Two other Vilnian warships had arrived later, and Sanok had met with their leader. He and his people had tried to help find those responsible, but after spending nearly a full day investigating, no leads had been found. Sanok had decided to leave the Silent Rift and return to their normal patrol route. After the Rose had taken damage in the battle with the Romulan vessel, things had moved quickly for Sanok and his crew. Things were settling into a routine on the new Defiant-class ship, but several technical issues had begun to surface. Nothing they couldn't handle, but if things were not rectified, Sanok would need to send a report to Command. Sanok had thought about Ben and his own place in Starfleet now that his friend had taken a leave and was now living on Earth with Mara. They continued to stay in touch, and his friend was happy and doing well, and Sanok was pleased for him, but Sanok missed his friend very much, and there was an emptiness that was still in him, and nothing had made it go away. Sanok had never envisioned that his life and career would be where it was now. He had thought he would spend many years serving in security on the Rose, his friend serving with him. It had not occurred to him that Captain Salid would be called away for a special assignment. That led to Ben being named as the new CO. When Ben had chosen to take leave, Sanok replaced him as captain. It was a position he had never sought and did not truly want. It was not normal for a Vulcan to have feelings about a situation, but Sanok was not a typical Vulcan. He knew the situation he was currently in, was most disagreeable. If only things could go back to the way they had been. When he had received word from the bridge that the USS Majestic had hailed them, Sanok had an odd sensation within himself, that things were about to be different. The Majestic had a visitor with a message. Lieutenant Commander Matrix, who had been Sanok's FO on the Rose, was back from injuries he suffered in the Romulan attack. He had asked to speak personally with Sanok about an urgent matter. Sanok had instructed his people to have Matrix go to the ready room. When Sanok completed his rounds, he headed there himself. "Good morning, Captain," said Matrix. "It's good to see you. My apologies for this intrusion, sir, but I've been directed by Admiral Beckett to give you this message as soon as possible." Sanok took a PADD Matrix handed him. "It is agreeable to see you as well, Mister Matrix. I am relieved that your injuries were not as severe as originally thought." Sanok entered the proper passwords and security codes and read the message. They were being recalled to Starbase 989. Other Defiant-class ships had been experiencing the same issues as the Starfire, and an investigation was being launched. "Is there anything more?" Sanok had expected the message to be something else. "No, sir. That is the entire message. We're to get the Starfire to Starbase 989 as soon as possible," said Matrix. "The Majestic will escort the Starfire back to 989 in the event there are problems." "Understood. Thank you, Mister Matrix." Still holding the PADD, Sanok went to the bridge. "Helm, plot a course to Starbase 989. We will be going there now with the Majestic." Sanok wondered what was going to happen to them now. (reply any) (posted by Bob) ==================== (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Corey, Day 17, 1035) He sat down, laid back, on the nice comfy chair, was sometime since he spent his days at Starbase 989. There was a woman... part of the staff... complicated past, he wasn't just ready to confront yet, no matter how much he may have liked her, he wasn't ready to start a family life. He was just not the kind of person for that. She couldn't understand, and he had to brake her heart. So he needed to pass some time until he heard news about the mission. "Computer, open personal contacts, Gorgot, Nausicaa." The view on the small screen changed from black to an particularly ugly Nausicaan, with eyepatch on his right eye and scars all over his face. "Gorgot" "Ah it's you again." "Nice to see you again, Gorgot." "You owe me a cloaking device." "Was a fair bet buddy, get over it already. Your luck you didn't bet on the whole ship." "You cheated somehow. And when I find out how... you're gonna get me my cloaking device back. Anyway, where is the cloaking device?" "A gentleman never tells it's secrets away. Besides, I didn't really contact you to remind you of a lost bet." Corey grinned. "Riiight, you just... kindly mentioned it, salting the wound was..." "Unintentional." "Right. So whatcha need exactly." The Nausicaan leaned on the bulkhead behind him. "Did you find anything?" "Remind me again... why am I helping you?" "Cuz you're a nice guy." "Honeyed words, you're spending too much time with the stuckup Feds." "Well, at least they bathe regularly, unlike grown up Nausicaans." "Hahaha, you know that reminds me. Saw the leader of the Black Claw, he said he'll pull out the spine for stealing his shuttle." "That was... accidental. I'm sure he will understand." "Yes, I'm sure he will, haha. Anyway, yes I've learned something." "I'm listenin" "They were transferring some kind of power control crystals, supposedly used in the construction of orbital catapult relays, or similar propulsion alternatives. I had my informant ask questions around about it and he paid it with his life. He also found out, the ship belonged to a race called the Shagren, and materials supposed to be relayed directly to their high commandant, whatever his or her name was, he couldn't find it. Hope you're satisfied with what one of your brothers bled for and died for." "Makes little sense to me, considering they already have warp propulsion and ways how to use the gravitational pulls inside the Rift to achieve higher speeds without actually being at those speeds using their engines... it's probably some kind of military experiment they were running to achieve the superiority in the region." "Guess we'll never find out now." "Guess we won't, no. Sadly, I was personally interested." "What was happening with you in the meantime?" "Got sick, most of the crew did, I didn't asked how, probably with the part of the ship we beamed on board. I guess it was I to blame since I've put the First Officer in an nasty situation and I didn't really allow her enough time to scan the material and filter for any kind of unknown diseases, but this is all my hunch, I never really asked. We've also encountered Romulans, reasons still unknown." "We've had several skirmishes with them lately, they're getting more aggressive lately, our intelligence couldn't find a reason why, but they are actively running raids on our supply convoys." "Technicly, Nausicaa is a part of the Klingon space, shouldn't..." "They either don't care or turning a blind eye, but I'm willing to bet they're just waiting for us to get weaker so they can instead attack and reclaim us once again." "Doesn't sound very honorable." "It isn't, but it works. The Klingon Captain we have to deal with... is from the Duras family. He is everything but honorable." "Sounds like you have a lot of fun back there, I'm jealous." "Haha, could for sure get nasty very soon, we have the next convoy guarded by our second battlefleet." "Wish you luck, Gorgot. Sounds like you're gonna need it." "Those Romulans will need luck, Wane." "Right. It was good hearing you, brother." "May the Great Hunter allow you strength, perseverance and power." "Goodbye, end channel." Wane crossed his arms, thinking about what was happening in the past weeks in his life. He couldn't quite get why where they moved out of action, but it was obvious they weren't getting back. He felt sad, he wanted to explore this part of space... he had to get at peace with the fact the decision was never his... he got used to forget all the things he loved, so that he could follow a chain of command, everything he ever did, was for others and he was never thanked for it. "Soldier..." he muttered. He just hoped it was all worth it. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Stone, Day 17, 1105) Issac looked around the small quarters he had been assigned too and sighed. Things had had been a bit mental with the Starfire but if he knew starfleet they would not keep him out of a position for long. He glanced over at his console as it activated and smiled as he saw the face that appeared on it. “Hi Issac how are thing going on in the big black.You still kicking tires and lighting fires?” He looked back at the image of his wife who was grinning at him. He smiled back feeling his problems dissolve into nothing. “There has been a bit of a setback with the Starfire/ there seems to be some structural problem that were not picked up until our first mission which means that we are all to be reassigned to another ship.” His wife's grin faded for a bit. “Ow I am sorry. You were looking forward to piloting the Starfire. do you know where you will be assigned to next?” He shook his head. “Don’t know yet I don’t have the papers through yet but the skuttlebut says its going to be an emalgimation of two crews.” He paused and gave gave her a shrug. “How are things at the academy still scaring the new recruits.” His wife’s face went as innocent as the driven snow. “What me no. That's a terrible thing to say.” She then grinned at him. “You know how it is. Its the usual hard nose stuff get them to learn hard and work hard as well as giving them so of the old master chief magic on the way. Issac smiled. “Are there any hard cases this year.” She shrugged. “There are a few as there are every year. They will either volunteer to resign from the program or will fall behind and quit.” He shook his head. “You are such an evil task mistress.” She rolled her eyes at him. “Just because you are too soft with them when you were here. They have to be ready when they qualify. We need them to be competent marines or they will get someone killed and I am not having that on my consiance.” He became serious nodded. He understood fully what she was saying and they had talked about this is great length in the past. they both achieves the same goal but they just came at it from different angles. Her eyes softened as she spoke to him. “You do know you can come back here. The commandant marines would jump at the chance of getting you to teach the fly boys and girls everything you know and it would be good to see you a bit more.” He sighed and nodded. “It would be good but I am not ready to sit behind a desk at the moment. I need to be flying. its what I life for.” “I know it is but just be careful when you are out there gallivanting around the stars in your starship.” He grinned and nodded. “Of course I will I know what would happen if anything went wrong.” “Exactly any way I have to go, I got a class on orbital barrage shortly and the kids say hi.” “When you see them send my regards and I will try and send them a message as soon as I am able.” He looked at her smiling face as her image faded and sighed again. he really hoped he would find out what his assignment would be soon. He was getting cabin fever by just sitting around on the station he needed to get back into space. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) ----- (Starbase 989, Quarters, Andersen, Day 17, 1141) Walking around, she had one purpose, to get to someone... someone that might know her secrets. She was ready for anything, ever for worst but when she got there... the doors were already open... It would seem Corey had a... interesting talk with one of the engineerings from Utopia Planitia. "... Lemme get this straight, you just happen to forgot to mention a critical failure in the reactor design that could've costed us all our damn lives just because you 'weren't sure' about the effects, and actually allowed us to do high speed trials all the same?" Lieutenant was yelling, his voice could be heard at the other side of the deck probably. "We felt that limited speed of the Rift won't..." "To hell with you and your feelings! How would you feel if we 'forgot' to mention thirteen damn borg cubes enroute to Utopia Planitia? Oh that's right, since they assimilate those with half the functional brain, I guess you and your buddies would be happily safe." "I will not listen to this anymore! I will write a formal letter of complain to your commanding officer, you will see what I mean when..." "I don't care one bit. Can't care anything for engineers that are worth as much as a portion of Racht, sort your stuff out and stop sending young officers into death because you lack basic cognitive functions. Computer, close the damn channel." "Do you feel better now?" Ailyn slowly and carefully muttered, breaking the silence. "What the hell are you doing here?" he said turning about "Is that the way to treat your doctor?" "Don't remember asking for a house visit, doc." "I heard yelling, I thought something's wrong." "Ah that. It was my duty to make sure the damn ship was safe for travel. I inspected everything and didn't find anything wrong with it, my six is on the line because bunch of clerkdesk morons decided it was 'more efficient' using outdated and cheaper materials in the hottest part of the reactor assembly." "I see the issue." she said raising her eyebrow. "Anyway, do you always have a tendency to let yourself in other people's personal quarters?" "No... only when I feel I need to." she ended the sentence with the weight of the megaton. "You better start explaining yourself, Ensign." "You caught the frequency I use, didn't you?" "Direct. I like that. Yeah, maybe I did." "Okay... what do you want?" "It doesn't go like that..." "Then how does it go?" "Look I'm not going to play a father figure and start the lecturing, you know that crap gets you on the quick put-me-to-jail list, relaying critical mission information to third parties is strictly forbidden under Starfleet Regulations chapter three, subsection twenty, those are serious stuff that could get you into jail. I know the latinum's great at the moment, I've been there, I know how good it feels, but it pulls you in and suddenly you find yourself backstabbin your buddies..." "You're right... I don't need lecturing." "Look... Ensign..?" "Andersen, Ailyn Andersen." "Andersen... I'm not the kind of guy that'll go and report you, I don't want anything in return, but you seriously need to stop doing it. If I picked up the transmission then any idiot looking for it could." "I...can't? It's.. complicated." "Un complicate it." "If I.. don't make those calls regularly... someone might die." "I think I get it now. Family member or some special guy, right?" "Girl." "A chick. Well makes no damn difference to me. Do.. they? hold her hostage?" "She tried getting away of this... party and, they're trying to find her now." "Why are you still making those calls?" "Because... if I don't, they will hunt her down. That was the deal..." "Well, let me tell you something, I've been working besides a lot of people in my life, some were honest folks, some were murderers and pirates and what not. I'm speaking from experience here... that party you said, they have the upper hand and if they intend to hunt her down, they'll do it. You'd never know if they did or didn't anyway, you're in no position to check out and as such you rely on them and you need to believe them. Don't believe them. They most certainly lie." "So what should I do?" "Relay them false information. Knowledge is power, yes? Wrong knowledge is false power. Give them what they want to hear." "Does that mean you won't report me? Please, promise me... promise you won't report me. I.. really need to.. it's.." "Well, they won't find it from me. If they ask, I'll just play for dumb. Just... be prepared to accept the consequences of your choice..." "I have." (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Starbase 989, Temporary Quarters, Signos, Day 17, 1730) It was good to have a bit of down time. The Starfire was a good ship but it seemed their was an issue with a series of defiant ships that the Starfire was a part of. This meant the Starfire been recalled to the ship yards. While the Starfire was a good ship there was little privacy. Jessica had spent time with C'Nell but they had things to talk about and Jessica missed Thomas terribly. It had left a message to his quarters some time ago and she hoped he would soon arrive so they could share a quite dinner together and talk. (reply C'Nell) (posted by Matthew Locke)