USS Rosenante - The Third Law - Compile #15 ========================= Mission: The Third Law Day: 10 Stardate: 2414.3.24 ========================= (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix, ACEO Lt. Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1903) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix -Day 10 - 1906) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 10 - 1909) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1909.5) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCRD Steven Matrix - Day 10 - 1911) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1913) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - COUNS Parker Davis - Day 10 - 1914) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix - Day 10 - 1915.5) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 10 - 1916) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Lt. Sanok - Day 10 - 1920) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1922) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ATAC/SC - Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos - Day 10 - 1925) ========================= (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix, ACEO Lt. Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1903) "I wonder where this material was quarried?" asked Matrix trying to conjure a historical conversation with the officers now within arms reach. Matrix continued to look perplexed by the monolith and walked closer to the officers. "Excuse me, but can you tell me anything about this masterpiece?" asked Matrix. The tall enforcement officer approached with both a curiosity and sense of skepticism of the strangers. He looked at his younger colleague with a guarded expression. "Stranger, you are a stranger in my city. What is your name?" said Kiovlian. Matrix gave a look of puzzlement at the inquiry, "Forgive me officer, I am a stranger in your city yes, but am a traveler from the third district seeking to trade here. This is our first time in many years to your city and the first time I've seen these fine examples of Asrai architecture." replied Matrix. "Your name stranger, I asked you your name." said Kivolian. Matrix smiled, "My apologies sir...how rude of me. Of course I am Kotarn, and your name sir?" said Matrix. "I am officer Kiovlian sir and this is my partner." replied Kiovlain. "Officer Jiatom," the younger officer chimed in. Eian studied their body language intently, and began to favor his right side to give them an automatic assumption for the reason for the scars over his left eye. He found that people granted him more leeway here when they thought he had suffered from whatever childhood disease they had pegged him with, and that was a definite plus with law enforcement personnel. Eian knew from his own tactical training that one just felt more at ease in that kind of role when others around them were physically weaker. They didn't need to know he was a 'guard'. "I am Ralek," Eian stated, and made the gesture of greeting. He was satisfied when he incurred what he thought was a momentarily sympathetic look from the younger, more inexperienced officer. "Officer Kiovlian, while I am a trader by profession I am also deeply interested in architecture. I wonder if you could tell me more about these fine structures?" asked Matrix. "We are interested in their history. We have nothing like them where we are from," Eian said, making what he thought was the gesture of curiosity. Kiovlian started to relax as he was very fond of his city. Smiling, "Yes I would be happy to tell you about it. This temple was erected nearly 100 cycles ago and honors our Vimana ancestors. The writing tells the story of their tribulations and triumph in the early holy wars." Matrix leaned toward the structure and put his hand out short of touching it, "May I touch it? I feel it has energy." said Matrix trying to conjure more information from the two officers. "You may not. It against out customs to allow anyone to touch a temple of worship." replied Kiovlain. ~Crap,~ Eian thought to himself, realizing he had only moments ago touched the monolith. He hoped that they hadn't seen him do it. Apparently, from the lack of consequences, they hadn't. Matrix again prodded, "Forgive me...I simply sensed its energy and wanted to experience in the first presents." Kiovlain smiled, "You are correct friend and no apology is necessary. The energy flow is present in the temple. It provides our city with heat, light and comfort." Matrix looked at O'Neill with a glint in his eye. ~Bingo~ Eian had the same glint in his eye. Indeed, this could be exactly what they were looking for. Proof of contact from another alien species, supplying these people with an energy source, would not only explain the energy readings but would also mean justification for the salvation of an entire planet. "Are there other similar structures?" Eian asked, his gaze purely curious. "Yes, there are several others nearby," Jiatom said, glancing at his superior before he said anything else, but Matrix spoke first. "And of these other structures nearby, do they server energy or a similar purpose as this temple?" asked Matrix. "All of the structures serve the highest purpose," Jiatom stated, rather like he was reciting it. "To provide energy of mind, body, and spirit to the general populace." Matrix smiled at the younger officer, "We do not have such structures in our province. I would like to learn more about them and your history." said Matrix. "I'm not sure we're the right people to help you traveler. I think you might wish to speak with the Dominie about such matters." interjected Kiovlian. "Of course, we have taken enough of your time already. We shall seek the Dominie out in the morning." replied Matrix wondering if he had blown his cover by asking too many questions. "We apologize for the interruption in your work," Eian added. "Not at all, but we do have to attend to our patrol. It is nearly time of feast for many here." said Kiovlain "Yes, yes of course." said Matrix. Jiatom hesitated as Kiovlain walked away, and the younger officer said, "We'd be happy to help you navigate the city and learn of the Aowa and all Celdebrai has to offer. Is it the structures you would like to see?" "We have seen so few structures like them, and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to get closer. We do not wish to intrude upon your culture, though. Would you be willing to accompany us there?" Eian asked, hoping that Matrix would have the opportunity to scan the structures if they got closer. "Perhaps after we finish our patrol and check in with the Dominie temple. Perhaps you would like us to escort you to the temple so you may ask your questions? I'm sure the Dominie would be happy to engage in your interest in our religious structures." said Kiovlain. The little voice inside Matrix's head began to clear his throat and the hairs on the back of his neck stood up. ~Something isn't tracking here.~ thought Matrix. Eian was by no means an expert on their communication, especially the communication by partners who worked together daily, but his amateur eye picked up a decided difference in stance and expression between the two officers. Kiovlain was thinking something that Jiatom was definitely not. He just hoped they weren't getting ready to walk into a trap. "When you have finished your patrol, we will meet you here and then walk there, if that is agreeable to you," Eian offered. "Thank you Kiovlian. We would appreciate that. While you're on your patrol my colleuge and I will find nurishment at the town center and await your return." said Matrix. "Very well Kotarn. We will circle back to the town center and join you. From their we can make the short trip to meet the Dominie." replied Kiovlian who seemed hurried. The two officers made their way and looked back at Matrix and O'Neill a few times. Matrix simply smiled and pretended to take notes of the monolith before them. "Lets get back to the landing zone. I suspect if we wait any longer we'll be captured. Something tells me this won't go well." said Matrix. Eian concurred, and they departed. (no reply necessary) (Posted by Steve and Morgan G) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix -Day 10 - 1906) Matrix waited until the two officers were out of hearing range. As they walked away they appeared nervous and glanced back at the two Star Fleet officers posing as travelers. Matrix didn¹t know to wave or simply smile and opted to make a friendlier gesture and waved. The younger of the two law enforcement officers made an awkward wave back. Matrix chuckled. ³EianŠI have a bad feeling about this if we stay. I think they are on to us.² said Matrix. (Reply O¹Neill) ³AgreedŠthe risk might be worth it.² replied Matrix. (Reply O¹Neill) ³I¹m going to upload the current scans and encode our location to the Rose. At least she¹ll know where were at. I¹ll program the tricorder to upload out location at 15 minute intervals.² said Matrix. (Reply O¹Neill) (Posted by Steve) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 10 - 1909) "I definitely agree, and I think the use of sign language points to the same thing. Symbols like statues or pictures on parchment--these are all relatively universal, but coupled with sign language points to either vastly different dialects coming together, or two different species coming together to work toward one common goal. They didn't even need to unite politically. It could have been a temporary alliance that dissolved after a few generations, but the language stuck." Josh nodded in agreement. "Our main problem is that we simply don't have the time to study this civilisation in depth. If we manage to save them I would recommend we send in a team to study them. Mind you, if we fail it's a pretty moot point since nobody will ever hear about them." (Reply Parker iyw) They arrived at the building, and found the statue in front to be rather nondescript. It was a simple vertical cylinder with a flat plane through it. Parker had no idea what to make of it. But across the street was another statue entirely--one unlike anything they had seen before. It was a man sprawled on the base of the statue, grasping a sharp instrument of some sort with all his might, but he was being ripped to shreds by another figure over him, who was sporting some kind of golden crown. "Now I'd *really* like to know what that means," Parker commented, pointing towards it. Josh grinned. "You and me both to be honest. It could be their symbol for justice. However it could equally be their symbol for war, although given that it doesn't look like these people are on a war footing I'm doubtful. However it could also be the symbol for their caste system. That system sometimes evolved from slavery and this looks like it could possibly symbolise that." (Reply Parker) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1909.5) "Eian, I have a bad feeling about this if we stay. I think they are on to us." said Matrix. He nodded. "I know the senior officer was planning something...at least I think he was. We could very well be walking into a trap, but I personally think that we may have struck gold here, Sir. They're talking about an energy source that might prove exactly what we're looking for." "Agreed, the risk might be worth it." replied Matrix. "What's the next step, then?" Eian asked. "I'm going to upload the current scans and encode our location to the Rose. At least she'll know where were at. I¹ll program the tricorder to upload our location at 15 minute intervals." said Matrix. He grinned. They were going, then. "Yes, Sir. I'll continue to keep watch until you're done. Then I guess we can look around for a bit before we head to the temple?" (reply Matrix) "Very well, Sir." Eian walked a few steps away and began looking around for trouble. (reply Matrix iyw) (posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCRD Steven Matrix - Day 10 - 1911) The law enforcement officers vanished from view and Matrix took the opportunity to scan the area for potential threats. He felt as if they were being watched and watched by many eyes. “Did you bring a phaser?” asked Matrix (Reply O’Neill) “Be discrete about it, but ensure that you can get to it quickly. Heavy stun only unless I say otherwise. Lets keep our voices down. I have a feeling we’re being monitored.” replied Matrix. (Reply O’neill) “We’ll continue with our investigating of the monolith and play along with the LEOs if they come back. I suspect they will come back in force and even if they do we must keep in character. Understood?” asked Matrix. (Reply O’Neill) (Posted by Steve) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1913) “Did you bring a phaser?” asked Matrix "No, Sir, but our tricorders could act as EM field generators if we set them correctly. The temple's not far, so we'll have to set them before we set out for it in case they spot us on our way there." “Be discrete about it, but ensure that you can get to it quickly. Heavy stun only unless I say otherwise. Lets keep our voices down. I have a feeling we’re being monitored.” replied Matrix. "I agree. A town like this, probably the law enforcement has informants all over the place." “We’ll continue with our investigating of the monolith and play along with the LEOs if they come back. I suspect they will come back in force and even if they do we must keep in character. Understood?” asked Matrix. He nodded. "Yes, Sir, of course I won't break character." (reply Matrix) Eian got to work programming his tricorder, and when he was finished, he continued guarding the area until Matrix had completed all of his scans. Then it was time to make a final commitment. Either they would go to the temple or they would leave. "Are we doing this, Sir?" (reply Matrix) Eian nodded, and took the lead. (reply Matrix) (posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - COUNS Parker Davis - Day 10 - 1914) Josh nodded in agreement at his previous statement. "Our main problem is that we simply don't have the time to study this civilisation in depth. If we manage to save them I would recommend we send in a team to study them. Mind you, if we fail it's a pretty moot point since nobody will ever hear about them." "A grim but accurate statement," Parker commented. They arrived at the building, and found the statue in front to be rather nondescript. It was a simple vertical cylinder with a flat plane through it. Parker had no idea what to make of it. But across the street was another statue entirely--one unlike anything they had seen before. It was a man sprawled on the base of the statue, grasping a sharp instrument of some sort with all his might, but he was being ripped to shreds by another figure over him, who was sporting some kind of golden crown. "Now I'd *really* like to know what that means," Parker commented, pointing towards it. Josh grinned. "You and me both to be honest. It could be their symbol for justice. However it could equally be their symbol for war, although given that it doesn't look like these people are on a war footing I'm doubtful. However it could also be the symbol for their caste system. That system sometimes evolved from slavery and this looks like it could possibly symbolise that." "It's possible, though I've found that more civilizations tend to soften and twist the portrayal of slavery or imprisonment. They spin it as beneficial, or put the slave-owners in the roles of caretakers. They try to change the way it's perceived by the general population to create less friction among the people, and in some cases even convince the slaves that they're better off where they are," Parker noted. (reply Josh iyw) "Though honestly, it's a completely different society. There's no reason to assume their bigotry works the same as ours." (reply Josh) Just then, the light went out in the 'office' building they were standing nearby. Two figures, one smaller than the other, walked closely together down the street to their left. Parker wondered if these individuals were going to meet up with the third inside the office building, or if it was a coincidence. They seemed casual enough. "It seems we'll soon have a visitor," he said in a low tone, and indicated that they should walk away to not draw attention to themselves. (reply Josh) (Posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix - Day 10 - 1915.5) ³Did you bring a phaser?² asked Matrix "No, Sir, but our tricorders could act as EM field generators if we set them correctly. The temple's not far, so we'll have to set them before we set out for it in case they spot us on our way there.² said O¹Neill ³Be discrete about it, but ensure that you can get to it quickly. Heavy stun only unless I say otherwise. Lets keep our voices down. I have a feeling we¹re being monitored.² replied Matrix. "I agree. A town like this, probably the law enforcement has informants all over the place.² replied O¹Neill ³We¹ll continue with our investigating of the monolith and play along with the LEOs if they come back. I suspect they will come back in force and even if they do we must keep in character. Understood?² asked Matrix. He nodded. "Yes, Sir, of course I won't break character." ³Lets hope I don¹t.² said Matrix with a smile. Eian got to work programming his tricorder, and when he was finished, he continued guarding the area until Matrix had completed all of his scans. Then it was time to make a final commitment. Either they would go to the temple or they would leave. "Are we doing this, Sir?" ³Yes, scans complete and are uploading to the Rose. Lets head out toward the city center.² said Matrix. (Reply O¹Neill) (Posted by Steve) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 10 - 1916) "It's possible, though I've found that more civilizations tend to soften and twist the portrayal of slavery or imprisonment. They spin it as beneficial, or put the slave-owners in the roles of caretakers. They try to change the way it's perceived by the general population to create less friction among the people, and in some cases even convince the slaves that they're better off where they are," Parker noted. Josh simply nodded her head. "Indeed you are correct. However if you look at it from the oppressed point of view rather than the oppressors you would indeed see it portrayed as cruel and injust. However," Josh paused and looked around. "Had that been the case here, monuments like this should be every where. They are not so I'm guessing I'm pretty much wrong and it means something else entirely." (Reply Parker iyw) "It seems we'll soon have a visitor," he said in a low tone, and indicated that they should walk away to not draw attention to themselves. Josh nodded in agreement and they turned and began to retrace their steps heading back the way they came." (Reply Parker iyw) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Lt. Sanok - Day 10 - 1920) "There is nothing we can do here." said Sanok. "The needs of the many, outweigh the needs of the few." Fraiser clearly didn't like this, as she glared at him. "You can't sit here and watch him die. We can help him." Unfortunately, that is what we must do," said Sanok. "I do not like it either..." His voice trailed off. A tear coursed down Fraiser's face. Being empathic, she was certainly feeling the emotions of the granddaughter and others in the crowd. She nodded and turned to address Signos. "Dear Sister, I wish to retire from this place. Perhaps we could find somewhere to obtain a stiff drink to calm our nerves?" A stiff drink? They weren't here to imbibe the local spirits. Their mission was to find reasons to save the Asrai from the approaching rogue planet. Glancing back at the stricken man, Sanok rushed after Signos and Fraiser. "My ladies, might I humbly suggest another course of action? It will be dark soon, and we do not know what things are like here in the city at night. We should return to the inn." Normally, Sanok would simply issue an order and they would return. However, in the midst of the Asrai, he had to maintain his role as a servant-guard to his master and to his family. Hopefully, Fraiser and Signos would put aside their feelings and remember their training. (Reply Fraiser, Signos, any) (Posted by Bob B.) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 10 - 1922) As they walked toward the city center, Eian paid careful attention to their surroundings and tried to note anyone watching them. There were few people out at night, and those that were seemed to have a destination. No one was behind them for quite a while, but Eian did see several people peering out at them from their second-story apartments. ~Every move we make is probably being watched...~ They walked in view of the ornate temple and Eian noted the difference in architecture between the temple and the other buildings. The Asrai were coming along technologically and had made some architectural advances that Eian would say point toward an industrial revolution happening soon. However, they were nowhere near the kind of sophistication that it took to create some of the curves and weight distribution that he could see in the temple. Either a more advanced civilization had come before them and they had occupied the temple for their own, or advanced beings had visited the planet and constructed it themselves. The other option, of course, was that advanced beings could have studied this species and accidentally leaked enough information that the Asrai were able to use it to construct the temple. But if that were the case, they'd see signs of that in the rest of their architecture. There was no one waiting for them at the city center just yet so they waited, Eian gazing at the temple's structure and ornate decoration from their distant view. "They said the Asrai provide for them," Eian said in a low voice. "Do you think that includes the temple? Or do you think they somehow built it themselves?" (reply Matrix) (posted by Morgan G) --------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ATAC/SC - Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos - Day 10 - 1925) "My ladies, might I humbly suggest another course of action? It will be dark soon, and we do not know what things are like here in the city at night. We should return to the inn." Sanok spoke has he caught up with Jessica and Tayla. Jessica had moved just to purely separate herself from the gathering crowd. "If you wish to retire go ahead," Jessica turned. "I will stay and offer what comfort I can." She lowered her voice to where it was barely above a whisper. "The least we could of done was taken him to the healers, allow him to pass in a warm bed rather than the cold streets." Jessica knew that there would be consequences to her actions but this was something that she could just not ignore. Maybe that was why she found a small measure of comfort in the federation. If she could not save a life then at least she could bring comfort to the suffering and maybe pay back a small measure of the darkness that Lily has cast upon her soul. She crossed the small distance to bring her next to the woman tears streamed down her face. Jessica made the motion of comfort with her left hand and the motion of sadness in with her right, her movements combined in a flow of that Jessica found oddly beautiful. "Excuse me, but if I can offer no other help," Jessica knelt next to the woman. "Would you mind I share you sadness so you don't have to bear this difficulty alone." The woman looked at Jessica a small smile graced her face. Her eyes wide which alone spoke volumes. ~Some one heard me, Some one cares.~ Jessica let the woman take her hands into her own. "Awoa bless you." the woman spoke has she began to pray for the safe acceptance of her father into what Jessica assumed was heaven. Jessica watched has the man suffered his breathing ragged. His breathing began to slow has the battle for his life raged on then after a time it stopped. As the old mans eyes closed and he found the peaceful sleep of eternity. The woman watched has her father passed on into the next life. Her tears and crying renewed has she buried her face into his chest. Jessica placed a reaffirming hand on the woman's back has to say 'your not alone.' Time passed and Jessica refused to let herself be swayed by her decision to stay. Finally she heard a cart being pulled by some large beast of burden approach. Men exited the wagon came and claimed the woman and her father and carried both away to the healing houses. It was during this commotion that with out thanks or bringing any attention to herself Jessica slipped away. Either with Sanok and Frasier Jessica at that moment cared not. They chose to stand by and do nothing when the ability to help was with in there grasp. She moved though the darkness lost with her own thoughts on the nights events has she made her way back to the Travelers Hall and to retire for the night. Maybe a fresh start to a new day would help give new light to the away teams problems. (reply Sanok, Frasier, iyw.) (posted by Matthew Locke) ------------------------- ========================= Mission: The Third Law Day: 11 Stardate: 2414.03.25 ========================= (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CO - Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 11- 0820.5, 0828) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0822) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Hall Warden- Darsel - Day 11- 0824) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0830) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ATAC/SC - Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos - Day 11 - 0832) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CTAC Lt.sg Ben Soma - 0834) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Hall Warden- Darsel - Day 11- 0835) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0836) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Jamal Tamar- 0837) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CO - Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 11- 0840) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Jamal Tamar- 0842) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0900) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall -CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma - 0904) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0906) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ATAC/SC - Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos - Day 11 - 0909) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Traveler's Inn - Counselor Parker Davis and Lt JG Tayla Fraiser - Day 11 - 1135) (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Counselor Parker Davis and Lt JG Tayla Fraiser - Day 11 - 1155) (USS Rosenante - Sickbay - MO - Lt (sg) Katherine (Kitty) Fisher - Day 11 - 1212) (USS Rosenante -Sickbay -Dahia Jackson - Day 11 -1214) (USS Rosenante -Sickbay -Marah Neru -1216) (USS Rosenante - Sickbay - MO - Lt (sg) Kitty Fisher - Day 11 -1220) (USS Rosenante - Sickbay - Marah Neru -1221) (Uss Rosenante COPS Quarters Dahlia Jackson Day 11 1425) (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – Science Department – Crewman Andrew Maddox – 1649) (Rogue Planet – Service Corridor – Chief Field Medic – MCPO Nathan Fuller – 1712) (Rogue Planet –Service Corridor – LT. Tom Jackson COPS - Day 11 –1716) (Interior Rogue Planet LT. Tom Jackson COPS Day11 1726) (Interior Rogue Planet LT. Tom Jackson Day 11 1745) (Interior Rogue Planet- GSL Lieutenant Xim Day 11 1749) (Interior Rogue Planet- COPS Lieutenant Tom Jackson Day 11 1752) (U.S.S. Rosenante- Stellar Cartogrophy- SOps/QM- LT Chance Raschen- 1753) (Interior Rogue Planet - Science Department – Crewman Andrew Maddox – 1812) ========================= (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CO - Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 11- 0820.5, 0828) Ahmed watched as the man in front of him bristled at the strength of the Captain's words. He understood men like Kenovan, the sort that wanted everything and if they received it, they'd only want that much more. by the same token, men like Kenovan had a darker side, the sort of side that if denied would become vindictive. It was a calculated risk. One that Ahmed made knowing that if his calculations were wrong, that the complexity of the mission would get much more complicated. Of course if it was correct, it could make things considerably easier. People who were under Kenovan's control would see him weakened, and those people could become fast and ready allies. And one thing that Salid and his away team needed now was allies who could answer questions and help multiply their effective ability to sort through the multitude of new input. To some of the other officers present, the captain's demeanor might seem foolhardy or perhaps even out-of-character, and Ahmed was alright with that assessment. One of the finer points of prerogative that belonged to the Commanding officer of any ship was that they were not required to always explain their actions. In this case he was planning on exercising this one prerogative. Kenovan would spread word, and when people opposed to him heard about the new crew, they'd hurry to join themselves with the man that stood up to the bully and hopefully in so doing would increase the away team's ability to gather the needed information with enough time remaining to save these people from certain extinction. He gave Sanok the nod to follow the angered man discreetly out of the room. What happened within the next day or so would be critical. hopefully, he had not just made a serious mistake. (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CO - Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 10- 0828) Sanok returned a few moments later, having fulfilled his mission with his usual thoroughness. The Captain didn't have to wait long for his report. "Sir, I was not able to hear everything that was said, but I believe Kenovan is sending search parties to find our disabled caravan." The door opened and Caskie and Some entered. All the better that his response should have been stated in front of as many of his officers as possible. Ahmed nodded in acknowledgement. "I understand. but I don't know that we had much of an option, and I'm hopeful that some good will still come from us sending him out of here in a rage. I have confidence that this little encounter will eventually turn into a strong advantage." ~At least I hope it does.~ The captain gave Soma a glance and asked, "And what did Darsel have to say?" "From what we learned from Darsel this Kenovan is a very powerful man." Ben stated. "He basically owns Celdebrai City, nothing happens here that he isn't aware of. He could make things very difficult for us if he so chooses, and from what Darsel said it's likely he will. Kenovan is the last of his line and is accustomed to getting what he wants, if he desires Signos for his bride he'll find a way to get her. We have to be very careful from here on in, Kenovan will likely have us watched and possibly will have men waiting in ambush." "I agree." Jennifer added, " From what I could get out of Darsel this man has all of the merchants in this city in his pocket and very few people dare to cross him. If we have made an enemy of him then we are all going to have to be very careful. It will take his people a few days to find out that we don't actually have a caravan somewhere down the road so we have a few days grace on that front. However if he decides to come after us then we have probably less time than we thought to do what we need to do here. I suggest that we double up, no less than four people going out together and everyone will have to be extremely careful. Although I rather doubt given our training that any of his men would be able to overpower any four of us." "That's probably a good idea." Ben said. "Strength in numbers. We have no idea how many men Kenovan has in his employment but it's likely he'll have them out in force if he intends to cause us harm." "I've also taken the liberty of having Darsel send up something hot for all of us for breakfast. I suggest that once it arrives we get together and discuss what we plan to do." Caskie continued. Ahmed nodded. "I agree. I got the impression that he was accustomed to getting his way. Since we couldn't give it to him, I felt that it was best to throw him off-balance by being very aggressive with him. He's not accustomed to that sort of thing; I suspect given what you've already told me. When he starts his machinations to foil us, those who despise him should logically seek us out. They will be a ready source of information and I think it will help us in the longer run. Besides, no one likes a bully, especially me." He gave everyone a knowing look. "We're in a desperate situation that is constrained for time. You all know what is at stake here, so we don't have the luxury of complications that might arise from an unexpected betrothal or unexpected and unintended marriage. That said, violence and revenge is easily understood, it's universal. It's the closest thing to level ground that we have with this man. He has influence for the moment, but I am wagering on the concept that he's bullied his way into power and influence, and whenever you do that, whether you are Human or Asrai, people are going to watch for their opportunity to rise up from beneath your oppressive thumb. It will serve our purposes to utilize those that seek us out for information to further our greater task without tying ourselves up in complicated social issues such as marriage and betrothal rules that we know nothing about. There's an old proverb my uncle taught me when I was a young man, and that was, 'It's better to fight the devil in hell, then in an arena you don't know or understand.'" Ahmed had just finished his reply when there was a short knock at the door and a voice carried through. "Master Jalad, I bring food for your morning break fast." Ahmed nodded, "let's have something to eat then and we'll be ready to start our day." (reply any who wish, but not necessary) Daniel Greene ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0822) "I must first apologize, milady." Darsel began. "Had I known the extent of your husband's goodness and generosity I would have died before I had given any credence to Kenovan's demands. But one must understand, that here, there is no house richer or more dangerous to one's livelihood than that of House Rajl. They have long been the ruling merchant class here, and to counter their wishes is akin to death, for one loses all their holdings and finds their debts held by enemies who determine only to have one cast down into the pits of poverty and despair that is known to those without a caste." "I see now that it must be true that in your land, your Husband is certainly the man most capable like that noble house as I have recently spoken, yet he is a kind and just master, keen to reward for good service and slow to punish for an honest mistake. Please speak to him and tell him I knew not his disposition, but only of the reputation of the man whom would force me to reveal your husband's chambers to him." Josh smiled at the Warden somewhat coldly. "My husband is indeed a kind and just master. However he can be quick to anger towards those who cross him. If you wish to redeem yourself tell me all you know of our visitor and I will intercede with my husband regarding your mistake and you shall be recompensed as I promised otherwise we might be forced to take our custom elsewhere. Perhaps the Merchant's Hall would be more accommodating with regard to our privacy." "I shall tell you all of Kenovan, for he is the last living son of the House of Rajl, having it is said seen his brothers to their deaths. His depravity is that of a wretched possessor, keen to grab a treasure and then keep it hidden away from sight when he has grown dull of its luster. he is this way with women, and with those who were once his ally. He is known for his power, for he owns all the trading houses within this city in some manner, so that those lesser houses call him lord and master, in name if not in actuality. His name is feared by all honest working folk, as his slightest disagreement can mean the loss of all good fortune, so that none will lend a coin to feed their neighbor if he forbids it." "I beg you. Do not reveal these words unto him, for if he had heard I spoke so poorly of him, I should find myself begging in the street by nightfall. But impress upon your husband my good nature to aid him in his endeavors that he should remember me should I fall upon poor times within my lifetime. I beg you please see this one thing done, and I shall forever be thy keen, kind and humble servant, owing all fortune and kindness unto your husband and his kin. My words are only this in his regards, do not fall into Kenovan's graces or allow him to act as friend to your house, for surely as the twin suns do rise, if you do he shall consume you and yours and your fortunes till none remain with which to feed your family." Josh nodded. "I thank you Darsel for your information and will make sure that my husband hears of it and your part in the telling of it." Dipping her hand into the pouch she took out several coins and dropped them on the counter. You have my word that none but us shall hear of your service to us today." Dropping another couple of coins on the counter she smiled at him again, this time in a friendly fashion. "Given your information perhaps it would be unwise to send food and drink up to our room whilst our visitor is still there, however all of us will require to break our fast so once he has gone perhaps you would be so kind as to send something hot up to everyone in our party." Dropping another couple of coins on the counter Josh pinned Darsel with her gaze. "Should anyone else enquire of us I expect you to inform us first so that we may be prepared. Am I understood?" (Reply Darsel iyw) Nodding Josh turned and nodding to Soma proceeded to make her way back upstairs. (Reply Darsel iyw) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Hall Warden- Darsel - Day 11- 0824) "I thank you Darsel for your information" Jalad's wife responded " and will make sure that my husband hears of it and your part in the telling of it." Dipping her hand into the pouch she took out several coins and dropped them on the counter. You have my word that none but us shall hear of your service to us today." Dropping another couple of coins on the counter she smiled at him again, this time in a friendly fashion. "Given your information perhaps it would be unwise to send food and drink up to our room whilst our visitor is still there, however all of us will require to break our fast so once he has gone perhaps you would be so kind as to send something hot up to everyone in our party." Dropping another couple of coins on the counter Josh pinned Darsel with her gaze. "Should anyone else enquire of us I expect you to inform us first so that we may be prepared. Am I understood?" "You are most reverently understood madam." Darsel replied happily. "I shall send up the finest foods for your consumption, And I promise you with all my energy there will be no more surprises visit your door so long as I draw breath. All visitors shall be announced before they grace your door." Nodding Josh turned and nodding to Soma proceeded to make her way back upstairs. (reply none needed) Daniel Greene ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0830) Returning to her room Josh listened as both Sanok and Soma reported to the Captain. When they had both finished Josh began talking. "I agree. From what I could get out of Darsel this man has all of the merchants in this city in his pocket and very few people dare to cross him. If we have made an enemy of him then we are all going to have to be very careful. It will take his people a few days to find out that we don't actually have a caravan somewhere down the road so we have a few days grace on that front. However if he decides to come after us then we have probably less time than we thought to do what we need to do here. I suggest that we double up, no less than four people going out together and everyone will have to be extremely careful. Although I rather doubt given our training that any of his men would be able to overpower any four of us." (Reply Salid, Sanok and Soma) "I've also taken the liberty of having Darsel send up something hot for all of us for breakfast. I suggest that once it arrives we get together and discuss what we plan to do." (Reply Salid, Sanok, Soma, any) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ATAC/SC - Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos - Day 11 - 0832) Jessica was always one to rise early, She was in the middle of washing her face and getting dressed for the day when the knock came to the front door of the combined rooms that the away team were logged in. She heard that someone had come to see Salid on a business matter. What kind of business matter Jessica could only guess from what she overheard in her position in the adjoining room. Jessica moved closer to the door the where she could hear better and if needed come to the aid of the rest of the security staff. That was until she overheard what Kenovan was after. The ideal floored her, and kept her firmly grounded to where she was in case the negotiation turned sour which Jessica figured they would. Captain Salid would in no way honor such a request. But Lun'ette showing up in the middle of such talks could only make matters worse and bold men bolder. She waited till Kenovan left, to say he was angry of the conversation got heated would be an understatement. Jessica knew then there mission on the surface of this foreign world had gotten much more harder. Kenovan represented an unknown variable one that no matter how much they knew of the man could predict his movements, and now they were already a step behind him, a fact that was confirmed only moments later when Caskie and Soma returned to the room. It was then that Jessica decided to emerge from her hiding spot from just beyond the door way. It seemed everyone looked her way. There were mixed expressions on everyone's face. "Sorry" Jessica spoke softly, she did not know why she was apologizing. After all she did nothing wrong, but she felt the need to anyway. Jessica took her spot to listen on how this new turn of events would change how they operated. She knew that the coming day had just become more difficult and everyone would have to be more alert to what was going on around them. (reply whoever wants) (posted by Matthew Locke) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CTAC Lt.sg Ben Soma - 0834) Commander Caskie agreed with Ben's assessment and recommended doubling up the parties, it was a good idea if Kenovan was intent on trying to over power them. Ben doubted his men were trained well enough to pose much of a threat to them but he had the numbers and they did not. In a fair fight Ben was willing to bet he could best any of Kenovan's men but if a dozen jumped him at once there would be very little he could do to defend himself. "That's probably a good idea." Ben said. "Strength in numbers. We have no idea how many men Kenovan has in his employment but it's likely he'll have them out in force if he intends to cause us harm." (reply Salid, Sanok, any) "I've also taken the liberty of having Darsel send up something hot for all of us for breakfast. I suggest that once it arrives we get together and discuss what we plan to do." Caskie said. The thought of a hot meal was appealing, they had much to discuss and new plans to make. Everyone had to be more vigilant now, they had to watch each others backs more then before. They didn't know anyone in the city and Kenovan could have his men anywhere at any time, even those who weren't his men wouldn't dare intervene for fear the merchant would strike against them. Their job had become much more difficult and dangerous. Ben glanced around the room taking in everyone's facial expressions, they all seemed to be thinking the same thing. (reply Salid, Sanok, any) (posted by Milo Young) -------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Hall Warden- Darsel - Day 11- 0835) "Friend Darsel." Jamil said. "It's been a long time." Indeed Jamil, it has been a very long time. How fare you in these days?" Darsel, looking over the man standing before him. "Many risings have come and gone but I have returned from exile, I seek an audience with the master of the new arrivals. A matter of great urgency must be discussed." Jamil said. "They see no one. Kenovan's manner has put them off from visitor's" the Hall master replied, "I would be remiss to make the same error twice within the course of a single hour." "Surely you could speak with them and convince them to permit me to speak with this Jalad." "What do you take me for?" Darsel asked. "Is it not enough that I nearly lost my hand today?" "I wish you no ill will but what I have to say is of great import." Jamil pleaded. "And what of my future, should I find myself deprived of my livelihood?" "Of course, forgive me." Jamil said as he dropped a pouch containing a few coins on the desk. "Pass a message along for me. Tell the master I have information he needs, I'll be waiting near the stable should he wish to hear what I have to say." Darsel collected up the small pouch and weighed it in his hand thoughtfully. "Very well I shall pass your desire for a meeting, but I make no promises." (reply Jamil) Daniel Greene -------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0836) The Captain had told Josh quietly what his interview was about and although in some way Josh found it amusing she realised how deadly serious this could be for their mission. One tiny little screw up was all it would take to knock them off track and this indeed could be it. Josh turned slightly as she heard the connecting door open and seeing Jessica there she smiled and turned towards her. "Breakfast will be here soon. Would you be so kind as to round up everyone else and bring them here. Finally once everyone had arrived and breakfast had been set on the table in front of them Josh smiled at all of them. "For goodness sake all of you dig in. None of us have had a hot meal since last night, and every one of us needs this." As they all began to dig in to the meal Josh watched as the Captain updated everyone on what had happened. (Reply Salid iyc) As Salid spoke, informing them of what had happened he finally began to eat, and Josh smiling began to eat herself happy that the Captain finally was willing to eat himself. (Reply everyone) There was a large discussion on where everyone should go and who they should go with and whilst not much else had been decided it seemed that Parker and Frazier were determined to go check out the nearest hospital. Josh to be honest was not happy about this. Frazier, being an empath would not have been Josh's first choice to visit a hospital, especially not on this planet, where medicine, whilst not in its infancy, was however probably not what Frazier was used to. Frazier to be honest would have been the last person Josh would have sent to any hospital on this planet. Her empathic tendancies would probably get them into more trouble than they needed so, it was with a heavy heart that that she allowed them to leave. (Reply Frazier, Parker) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------ (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Jamal Tamar- 0837) Darsel collected up the small pouch and weighed it in his hand thoughtfully. "Very well I shall pass your desire for a meeting, but I make no promises." Jamal stepped back and made the gesture of gratitude. "I can ask no more of you." He said. "Take care and may fortune find you my friend." With that Jamal left the travellers hall and set off, stepping out onto the street he pulled his hood up over his head to ward of the cool morning breeze. Celdebrai was very much as he remembered it, as he passed the market he was pleased to see it was as busy as ever even this early in the morning. He hoped the master of the new arrivals would grant him an audience, if Kenovan was displeased as he appeared he had to pass a warning. He walked through the streets until he reached the stable, so far it appeared to be quiet so this was a good place to wait. As the suns continued to climb the cool breeze began to fade and the air began warning in the promise of a fine day. He pick a cozy spot on a hay pile and sat down, he wasn't there long when his wish was granted. The master saw fit to grant him an audience and he wasn't about to keep the man waiting. (reply none) (posted by Milo Young) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CO - Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 11- 0840) the meal came into the room and was placed on the small central table for them to enjoy. Ahmed had one of his officers tip the servant and then looked at the food that had been brought up. Some of it was more appealing than some of the rest of it. Either way it didn't matter, it was necessary that they eat to keep their wits and their strength up. "For goodness sake all of you dig in. None of us have had a hot meal since last night, and every one of us needs this." Jennifer stated, putting words to Ahmed's thoughts. He selected something that didn't look too complicated or slimy and decided to give it a reasonable effort. At least he knew that he wouldn't be violating any of his religious restrictions by eating anything that was native to this world. After all, it's not as if there were pigs everywhere. Requests and ideas were put forth in reference to their tasks for the day. There would be a group Frasier and Parker that were to head to the Hospital while all the others except mike would be heading to the marketplace. That left Salid and Rosenbauer to consider their parts in today's festivities. The captain was in the notion to visit some of the official buildings in the area. His supposed status should be sufficient to gain him some access, he was especially interested to see if he could locate a library of sorts. Mike, of course would act as body guard, a roll which he was more than capable of fulfilling. Salid seriously doubted that any man on this planet could prove an equal for the Ranger, and that was more than enough reason to feel some comfort. If Ahmed could get his hands on some technical documents of some sort, engineering texts and maybe some mathematics, it would go a long way to understanding the technical abilities that these people possessed. Everyone departed once Mike had given his word to Jennifer that he'd look after his captain. "We're going to see if we can find an archives or library." Salid announced just a moment before a knock at the door sounded. "Who is there?" Salid asked as he gave Mike a sideways glance. "Yolid, master Jalad, I am Darsel's servant. I have come to tell you that Jamil Tamar, a merchant and enemy of Kenovan seeks an audience with you. Shall I send him up to see you or turn him away?" Ahmed gave Mike a look. The ranger shrugged as if to say, 'sure why not?' "I will speak to him, but first take away the remains of our morning meal and bring us some chala." Ahmed nodded to Mike, who opened the door. The servant entered the room meekly but quickly set about his task. He gathered up the dishes and quickly made short work of the clean up. "I shall return with the chala and your visitor good master." Yolid replied. "Very good." Salid-Jalad replied. He fished a coin from his pocket and placed upon the man's tray. "for your speed and dedication. Show him in with haste, bring the Chala when it is ready." "Yes master." (reply Tamar) Daniel Greene -------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - Jamal Tamar- 0842) Jamal approached the door to the masters room, he took a moment to straighten his robe before knocking. When the door was opened he entered the room and was directed to master, he stopped before the man bowed slightly as he rose his hands in the gesture of gratitude. "Forgive my intrusion but what I have to say is of great import to you." Jamal began. "Kenovan Rajil recently visited you and left very displeased, I can only assume he made you an offer that you refused. It was wise of you to do so but at the same time very unwise." (reply Salid, any) "I saw him leave this very hall after meeting with you and he was in very bad humor." Jamal explained. "You've made an enemy of the house of Rajil, a very power enemy. I over heard his plans to seek out your caravan, he will lay waste to it and claim the spoils for himself. He will kill anyone he finds there and then do everything in his power to see you are not welcome in the markets of Celdebrai. This is very bad for you if you had intentions of establishing trade here." (reply Salid, any) Jamal glanced around at those present, his eyes came to rest on Sanok. "I saw you shortly after Kenovan came out, did you hear any of his rantings." (reply Sanok) "He did caution his men not harm Lun'ette but the rest of you were to be dealt with. Why would he not want his men to damage a flower?" Jamal asked. (reply Salid) "I see." Jamal said as he looked at Jessica. "He will have you watched so you must be careful, do not under estimate Kenovan as I have. Many in Celdebrai fear him and his men, but there are a few how would like to see him fall and I am one." (reply Salid, any) (posted by Milo Young) -------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0900) As everyone finished eating and the meeting finally wound down Josh mentioned that she planned to visit the market again that morning since the Captain had already reminded her the night before that he needed a change of clothing if he was to keep up appearances as a prosperous merchant. Turning to Jessica Josh smiled at her. "You managed to get a good deal yesterday when you acquired clothes for us ladies. How about you show me where you got them." (Reply Jessica) "However given what just occurred you and I are not going to wander around the market on our own. We are taking some heavy duty security with us this time Mr Soma and Mr Sanok, you will accompany us please. (reply Signos, Soma and Sanok) "Mr Rosenbauer you will stay here and make sure that the Captain is safe. Hopefully we will be back within an hour." (Reply Salid and Rosenbauer iyc) (Reply Signos, Soma,Sanok, Salid and Rosenbauer) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall -CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma - 0904) Ben began eating along with the others, he wasn't certain what he was eating but it didn't taste too bad. Some of the foods had a texture he wasn't fond of but it was something hot and they all needed it. The mornings meeting with Kenovan had presented them with more problems, they had to be more careful now, they had to move in larger groups and they had to watch each others backs more then they had previously. Their task of finding something to make these people worth saving had gone from very difficult to almost impossible. Kenovan would no doubt have them watched, once he found there was no caravan he would make that public and they might be forced to leave Celdebrai. Judging from what they learned from Darsel, Kenovan would show them no quarter. The only member of the party who was relatively safe was Signos. Caskie turned to Signos and complemented her on the clothing she had purchased and the bargain she got them for and suggested Signos showed her the location. After Signos agreed Caskie added. "However given what just occurred you and I are not going to wander around the market on our own. We are taking some heavy duty security with us this time Mr Soma and Mr Sanok, you will accompany us please." Ben turned to Caskie and nodded. "Of course milady." He said. "Maybe we could secure some new garments for the men while we are there." Ben wasn't sure if anything would happen on the outing but he was glad he would be there if something did, if nothing else he would show this Kenovan that not everyone feared him. "Mr Rosenbauer you will stay here and make sure that the Captain is safe. Hopefully we will be back within an hour." Ben was also hopeful they wouldn't be detained, he would have his head on a swivel. Sanok's superior hearing would also give them advance warning giving them an edge they could exploit should things not go according to plan. (reply any) (posted by Milo Young) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Travelers Hall - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 11 - 0906) "Of course milady." He said. "Maybe we could secure some new garments for the men while we are there." Josh grinned at him. "That was pretty much my idea to be honest. Whilst our replicated clothing will indeed repel most of the day to day stains that we will no doubt pick up. I think we will stand out like sore thumbs if we keep wearing the same clothes day after day and whilst I do want to see what else I can pick up in the way of Asrai text and mannerisms my main reason for visiting the market today was to pick up something else for you all to wear." "I can approximate sizes for Rosenbauer and the Captain however I would prefer that everyone else come with me so that it doesn't take us too long." (Reply any/all) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - ATAC/SC - Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos - Day 11 - 0909) Jessica took a small portion of the hot food that came to the room. She sat in a corner idly eating lost in thought on the events of the following night and what had occurred that morning. Jessica wondered at what the ramifications of those events would have on the rest of the mission. Would they find the key piece of information that they were looking for. What id Kenovan found out why the away team was there. Jessica did not what to think about what would happen if that came to fruition. It wasn't until Caskie turned and smiled at Jessica that she snapped out of her reverie "You managed to get a good deal yesterday when you acquired clothes for us ladies. How about you show me where you got them." Jessica nodded. "If you would like." Jessica understood now more than ever they had to keep up the appearance of being a wealthy merchant family. If Kenovan or one of his agents were able to find one weakness in the away teams story he would exploit it. They could not let that happen. Caskie continued "However given what just occurred you and I are not going to wander around the market on our own. We are taking some heavy duty security with us this time Mr Soma and Mr Sanok, you will accompany us please." Jessica flinched at the reference of bringing some heavy duty security. Has it became more apparent that Jessica even though was an able fighter and with her S31 training maybe more of a handful than Soma or Sanok but she could not engage. Salid by casting her in the role of daughter effectively took her out of any fighting, except in the most dire of circumstances. She was sure none of the small group she was venturing out with knew of her past and more deadly skill set. It still gave her a moment of pause has the thought passed. ~Did the Captain put me in this role so I would be less likely to have to fight and less likely to give in to the more blood thirsty nature of Lily.~ Jessica listened has Soma replied "Of course milady." He said. "Maybe we could secure some new garments for the men while we are there." He spoke while Jessica crossed the room the wear she stashed the bundles of clothes grabbing a small selection she crossed back to Josh falling back into her role. Josh grinned at Soma answering his question. "That was pretty much my idea to be honest. Whilst our replicated clothing will indeed repel most of the day to day stains that we will no doubt pick up. I think we will stand out like sore thumbs if we keep wearing the same clothes day after day and whilst I do want to see what else I can pick up in the way of Asrai text and mannerisms my main reason for visiting the market today was to pick up something else for you all to wear." Jessica laid the small selection on the bed next to Josh has she continued. "I can approximate sizes for Rosenbauer and the Captain however I would prefer that everyone else come with me so that it doesn't take us too long." To which Jessica nodded. "Now, mother if were going back into the market don't you think we should be getting ready. Unless you would rather wear your traveling garb for another day." She spoke with a slight chuckle glancing at the gathered males of the group to see if they got the hint. (reply Josh, those gathered.) Once the room cleared of the men folk and the women were left to dress, Jessica allowed Josh to look over her gathered goods. Jessica however knew what outfit she was gonna try out today. It was a light sky blue dress that clung to and flowed around Jessica's body. The top was a deep royal blue steel boned corset that laced down the sides the laces were a sash made from the same light blue material of the dress. What was odd was how the back was put together. The sides of the back lace were placed far apart only an inch or so form the side laces. It was designed that once laced it would still offer the support of the design but still leaving the back open. Covered only by the crossing soft sash a bow tied at the base of the neck to keep the cinching but leaving enough of the sash to flow down the exposed back. The sleeves where a sheer white, wide, and soft the connected to each hand with a ring that was worn on each middle finger. All in all Jessica thought in a truly one of a kind and beautiful dress. Once Jessica found her way into the silky garb she looked to Josh. "Do you think you can help with the lacing?" Jessica smiled broadly adding. "Pleeeease mommy." (reply Josh) (reply all noted.) (posted by Matthew Locke) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Traveler's Inn - Counselor Parker Davis and Lt JG Tayla Fraiser - Day 11 - 1135) They would leave soon for the hospital. After bringing up its discover to Salid, he had okay'ed a reconnaissance mission on the grounds that they would not do anything except gather information by talking to a few people and then leaving. They were to say they were interested in becoming healers. Parker was getting his scanning equipment ready in his clothes, and Tayla was working on her own in their room. Sighing, she made sure that she had what she needed to go to the hospital with.Sitting down on the bed, her thoughts wandered back to the previous night andthe moment in the gardens when the old man was lying on the ground, dying beforeher eyes. She couldn't help him even though she knew exactly what to do. It killed her as a doctor but, more so, as an empath. She felt the desperation of the woman and the utter hopelessness of the man and still couldn't do anythingto help either of them. She felt a tear run down her face and she wiped it away with a sniff. Parker heard her sniff, and frowned. "Are you okay?" he asked, walking over and placing his hand gently on her back. She nodded and replied, "It's nothing. Just...." She sighed and continued, "Something happened last night that made me question myself." He nodded slowly, realizing that she had been open with him in the past and now was guarding her answers. "Are you okay to go to the hospital?" he asked, not wanting to push her into telling him about something that she didn't want to share. "Yeah, it was just... I've never been confronted with a situation where I was prevented helping someone. It killed me, Parker. I won't go through that again. I can't." She replied, staring at him. His expression was sympathetic, and he nodded. "I'm sorry you had to go through that. I hope you don't have to go through it again." He didn't push her, not even asking what had occurred. Instead, he pointed toward the door. "Ready to go? Or do you need a second?"She smiled at him and, lightly, kissed him on the lips. Pulling away from him, she replied, "I'm okay. Honestly. Let's go." He nodded, somewhat hesitantly, and led her toward the door. (no reply necessary, more to follow) (posted by Morgan G and Jackie Smith) ------------------------- (Asrai Prime - Celdebrai City - Counselor Parker Davis and Lt JG Tayla Fraiser - Day 11 - 1155) Tayla and Parker had received the go-ahead to investigate the local hospital to determine how the population treated their ill. They walked down the local roads casually until they reached the front doors. Stopping outside the doors, she turned to Parker and said, "Parker, I just need a moment." The hospital looked like something out of one of Parker's holonovels from the nineteenth century. The minute he entered the front door with Tayla by his side, he recognized the similarities. The wooden floor was varnished and was being mopped by an orderly who was dressed in all blue. Similarly dressed nurses were behind a large desk at the front, and many rolls of parchment were organized into wooden cubbyholes on the wall. This was a formal operation, not at all like the running stumble humanity had taken into the medical world. "Can I help you?" an irritated voice asked, and Parker realized that the woman had been making a hand gesture at him repeatedly before finally asking verbally. "I apologize," he said, and gestured accordingly as he had learned in the past week. "I am interested in becoming a healer. My wife comes from a family of healers. We just arrived in town a week ago with my family and are interested in observing your practice so that I can determine if I might eventually qualify for medical training." "You are not currently a student of the Healing Profession?" she asked after giving him an odd look. "I am not, madam, but I wish to become one." She sighed, and gestured that they should follow her. "I do not normally do this but you look to be of the correct age. If anyone asks, you are both students of the Yanna'la School of Healing, you to become a Healer," she pointed at Parker, "And you to become a Healer's Assistant," she pointed at Tayla. She pushed through double doors and continued to lead the way down a long corridor lined with hospital rooms. "Do not draw attention to yourselves by asking odd questions or engaging in speech." She rounded a corner and opened the door slightly. "Your tardiness will not be appreciated," she said, and gestured for them to walk through the door. As they did, they entered in a massive underground theatre. There were hundreds of seats and surgery was being performed on the stage below. Young Asrai were taking notes on parchment scrolls. Parker silently led them to available seats and began watching with fascination. Tayla sat beside him and watched the lecture, her hand never leaving his. This was a learning environment and it was from an age that she had no knowledge of. This was fascinating to her and she watched as they begun to discuss a particular case. She leaned towards Parker and said, "This is fascinating. Do you know much about this era?" "I know that *that* is a tourniquet, and the patient is probably anesthetized, and about to lose his leg...and I know from basic medical training that it's badly infected," he whispered. There was some kind of sanitizing procedure going on involving bugs. Parker had no idea what it could possibly be doing, if anything, but he watched in complete awe. Tayla watched him closely. She could tell he found this intensely interesting and she had to admit that it was. This was a society that had tried to do so much with what it had and for that, she admired them. But something was bothering her. This wasn't the reason why she had wanted to come to the hospital, to watch a lecture. She wanted to see the real medicine in action. Whispering to Parker, she said, "Perhaps we should ask to move onto maybe a ward or something similar? See how they treat those not needing operations. Perhaps see how they treat those with mental illnesses. After all, it would be interesting in a society such as this to see how they cope when the problem cannot be solved with surgery." He nodded. "I don't want to push our luck, though. Let's wait until we get to a break point and then leave the way we came," he whispered back. A few minutes later they snuck away, and Parker asked a nurse in the hallway which way to the mental ward, explaining that they were visiting a cousin. She gave them an odd look before pointing to the other end of the hall, where a stairwell was. It was up one level. As soon as they reached the door to the second level, they could hear the screaming. Parker glanced at Tayla with a wary look before opening the door and entering the mental area. It wasn't the screaming she'd heard first. She hadn't mentioned it to Parker but the minute they started climbing the stairs, there had been such an assault on her mind, the like of which she'd never experienced before. The whole range of emotions came flooding through and she found it incrediabley hard to keep her barriers in place. She stopped on the opposite side of the door, leant against a wall and sighed. Closing her eyes for a moment, she doubled the strength of the barriers in place in her mind and opened them. Seeing his concern, she said, "I'm fine. Honestly. It was just the shock of it all. It overpowered me for a moment." "Oh, I didn't even think..." he started, but realized that what was done, was done. "Are you sure?" She nodded, "Yes. I'm fine. Let's move on." She walked a little further down the corridor and turned a corner and found the source of the screaming. A communal area with patients and staff alike running, talking, playing games. She watched the scene for a moment and, turning to Parker, said, "This is what we needed to see." To Parker, it sounded like the screaming was torturous, but many of the people in this ward were speech impaired or mentally impaired, and their joyful screams sounded the same to him as their fearful screams. Still, there were rooms beyond the double doors and the communal area that they hadn't seen. But it appeared that the Asrai treated their mentally ill well. And so far, there didn't appear to be too many individuals who were there cognitively aware, put there by mistake. He nodded at Tayla's words. "But we still haven't seen it all," he said. She drew a deep breath and said, "I know." Although she'd seen her fair share of treatments facilities for the mentally ill, this was something new to her. All the sights and sounds and smells of the place held a fascination for her. Looking around, she spotted a young male, teenager, sat by himself. She watched him for a moment, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. She gestured to Parker and said, "Perhaps we should talk to him. He seems fairly together." "Good idea," he whispered, and led the way over. "Young man," he greeted him with the hand sign he had seen others use, "we are travelers from a village far away. I wish to become a healer, and I would like to inquire how you are treated here." Tayla watched as the kid gazed up at Parker and said, "Who are you?" Tayla gently touched Parker's arm and then knelt so she was on his level and said, "Let's start again, What's your name?" The kid looked at her and said, "Neroon." Tayla smiled and said, "Well, hello, Neroon." She held out her hand and he shook it, cautiously. She continued, "My Husband wishes to become a Healer... We were told that you were the best person to speak to here." She watched as Neroon looked at her, analysing her face. She could sense that he was curious and wanted to talk to them but the teenager was unsure. "Look, I don't know what your game is, Lady, but you're the first person to talk to me in here like a real person." He turned to Parker and said, "You have quite the wife here, mister. Very clever." Parker smiled. He wasn't sure what technique to take with the kid, and he went with playing 'bad cop,' because it seemed it was a patriarchy, and he had Tayla here to soften his question. Apparently, he now knew the kid responded to more friendly language. Parker sat at the table with Neroon, and pulled up a chair for Tayla. "I know, she is very special. But it sounds like you do not enjoy your stay here," he asked in a curious tone. Neroon, watching Tayla as she sat, said, "It's not that. I just don't think I belong here." Tayla looked at him, curiously and said, "What makes you say that?" She regarded him as he said, "They've only put me in here 'cause I did something bad. Mandatory evaluation." Tayla could tell there was something else, something he wasn't telling them but she didn't want to push him. He was the first person that they'd had a chance to properly talk to. She turned to Parker and said, "Husband, perhaps you have another question?" He nodded. "Do you believe you were put in here because of your social standing?" Parker asked. Neroon regarded him a second and said, "Are you kidding? My parents are rich." Tayla looked at him, quizically and said, "Then why are you here?" He sighed and said, "I suppose you could say that i was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Don't get me wrong, I have a good life and I was a student of religion before I ......I was stupid and got caught stealing from a temple. When they arrested me, I blacked out and they say that I was taken over by a demon, that I began to shake uncontrollable and my muscles locked up." Tayla, turning to Parker, said, "That's something that my father has mentioned to me before. He has seen this affliction and knows...." She paused, catching the look on Parker's face. Parker couldn't help but think of himself when he was the boy's age. He found himself in a similar situation, minus what sounded like epilepsy. He nodded to Tayla and Neroon. "I have heard of this as well." He looked at the boy. "Have the healers here mentioned the possibility of a cure? Or do they believe it to be a demon, not the illness?" Neroon looked at these two strangers curiously. There was something about them that he couldn't put his finger on and it bothered him. He looked at the woman and said, "They believe it to be a demon, that I'm being punished for my wicked actions by the Aowa, that this is a curse that needs to be exorcised. But if you two know something, of a cure, then I beg of you to tell the hearlers." Tayla, her heart breaking for this poor child, begging for help infront of them, replied, "We are not healers, Neroon. We are looking to be students." She saw the disappointment in his face as she spoke and she heard herself saying, "But perhaps, my father might know of something. I will ask." His heart leapt a little as the woman spoke. He grabbed her hand, gently and said, "Please, do not tarry. I am due to be sent to the asylum in the next few days if I cannot be helped." Parker felt his gut churn. This poor kid...who knows what they would do to him there. "We are from a village very far away, and we've found that many of ourcultural practices are different from those who live here," he explained, making an apologetic gesture before he asked, "What is the asylum like here?" Neroon turned to the man and said, "I've never been there, sir. But from the stories I have heard, people say it is like hell on earth. Endless nights, screaming all the time, no contact with the outside world and no hope of redemption. I beg of you both, if you know anything, please tell the healers. I don't want to go there, I can't go there. I won't get back out again." Tayla simply let a tear fall down her face as she held his hand and said, "Neroon, let us speak with my father and come back shortly. I promise you we will return and help, if we can." She rose from her chair and said, "Husband, let us bother this child no longer. we must hurry to father and ask for his help." Parker nodded and placed a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder as he stood, his jaw clenched. He had been where this boy was. He had feared, more than anything else, the possibility of being taken to isolation in the J. Samuel Juvenile Detention Center. For children with oppositional disorders, who could not be treated and presented a constant danger to the staff, there was only one alternative. They were made as comfortable as possible with medication,restrained them to their beds, and restricted them from all visitors. There was a boy named Jason who nearly crushed his therapist's skull after slamming her into the dinner table in the mess hall. Parker was right across from the boy when he did it, and provided a witness testimony that Jason had been 'perfectly fine' moments before the incident. Jason was also the one who forced Parker's head into the sonic toilet on his first day at the center. Parker later found out that Jason had been there for seven years and had never made any progress despite exposure to multiple therapies from different civilizations. He was getting too big and too dangerous to control. They had no choice but to condemn him to a life of isolation. Parker, at the time, believed that he was at risk for this fate as well. He hadn't differentiated at that point that he understood right from wrong, and Jason didn't seem to. He was never truly at risk for that kind of fate, but Neroon might be. They made their way out of the hospital without anyone taking much notice, and once outside, Parker was silent. They couldn't treat the boy. It was a direct violation of the Prime Directive, and it wrenched at his heart. But they couldn't do it. Rules were not for following only when they were convenient. The walk back to the hotel was mostly silent, but Parker could tell she was mad at him. He hoped it would blow over. (no reply necessary)(posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Sickbay - MO - Lt (sg) Katherine (Kitty) Fisher - Day 11 - 1212) With Lt Dralar back on his home world at present Kitty, as the junior doctor, had been bumped to cover what ever shift was needed. To be honest she actually didn't mind it since she was used as a nurse to cover most shifts anyway and since Josh was gone with the away party Kitty had very little in the way of social life unless you counted talking Lulu for a walk and wrestling with Bruiser every time he wanted to sit in her lap. So when she was told that she was needed in main sickbay Kitty quite happily made her way to the main room. Sickbay was quiet at that time so spotting Marah standing beside a biobed Kitty realised that this was why she had been called and made her way over there. Her slight smile changed to a broad grin when she saw who the patient was. "Well, well, well, Mama Jackson. I thought you and Tom had abandoned us?" (Reply Dahlia iyw) "How are you feeling?" (Reply Dahlia) Turning to Marah she raised an eyebrow, something she'd learned from Josh and held her hand out for the tricorder. (Reply Marah iyw) Reading the results she smiled at Dahlia. "Well it looks like all three of you are doing fine and to be honest I don't think it will be long now." (Reply Dahlia iyw) "I don't foresee any major problems except for the normal ones of feeling like a beached whale, being unable to sleep much, having your ankles swell to at least twice their normal size and lugging around quite a good bit more weight than you are used to. All par for the course I'm afraid. However, since you are getting pretty close to your time I would suggest that it might be wise for you to wear a monitor from now on. That way we will know almost as soon as you do when you go into labour and we will be ready and waiting for you." (Reply Dahlia) Turning to Marah Kitty began giving her orders. "Please get me a foetal monitor from the equipment bay please. Top shelf, left hand side." (Reply Marah) Once Marah returned Kitty keyed the monitor to the padd she was holding and placed the monitor on one side of Dahlia's stomach. "There we go. Now unless you have any questions Mrs Jackson you're free to go." (Reply Dahlia) As Kitty watched Dahlia leave sickbay she turned to Marah. "Whilst I'm not especially worried, twins can be tricky sometimes. It might be an idea to get everything ready now." (Reply Marah) (Reply Dahlia and Marah) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante -Sickbay -Dahia Jackson - Day 11 -1214) Dahlia heard a near and dear old friend. She broke into a broad smile and said " Hello Kitty". Kitty replied "Well, well, well, Mama Jackson. I thought you and Tom had abandoned us?". Dahlia's smile faded a bit. "It seems his step-dad Pez had manipulated the promotion list somehow. As a result Tom lost both his promotion to Lieutenant Commander and his First Officer billet" Dahlia said. (Reply: Kitty, Mariah ) Kitty scanned her with a tri-corder. Reading the results she smiled at Dahlia. "Well it looks like all three > of you are doing fine and to be honest I don't think it will be long now." Dahlia smiled then groaned as the kids double teamed and kicked in unison. "Amen" she replied with relief. Kitty looked over the readings. and said "I don't foresee any major problems except for the normal ones of feeling like a beached whale, being unable to sleep much, having your ankles swell to at least twice their normal size and lugging around quite a good bit more weight than you are used to. All par for the course. Dahlia sighed and said "Oh great" and shook her head. Once Marah returned with the requested fetal monitor. Kitty keyed the monitor to the padd she was holding and placed the monitor on one side of Dahlia's stomach. "There we go. Now unless you have any questions Mrs Jackson you're free to go." Dahlia shook her head and rose and headed out. As Kitty watched Dahlia leave sickbay she turned to Marah. "Whilst I'm not especially worried, twins can be tricky sometimes. It might be an idea to get everything ready now." (Reply Marah) (Posted by: Mariln Work and Bill W.) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante -Sickbay -Marah Neru -1216) " Hello Kitty". Dahlia said. Kitty replied "Well, well, well, Mama Jackson. I thought you and Tom had abandoned us?" Dahlia's smile faded a bit. "It seems his step-dad Pez had manipulated the promotion list somehow. As a result Tom lost both his promotion to Lieutenant Commander and his First Officer billet" Dahlia said. "That's too bad." Marah replied. "Not to mention unfair." Marah picked up her tricorder and passed it to Kitty who looked over the results. "Well it looks like all three of you are doing fine and to be honest I don't think it will be long now." Dahlia smiled then groaned, Marah assumed one or both of the twins were stretching out. "Amen" she replied with relief. "I don't foresee any major problems except for the normal ones of feeling like a beached whale, being unable to sleep much, having your ankles swell to at least twice their normal size and lugging around quite a good bit more weight than you are used to. All par for the course. However, since you are getting pretty close to your time I would suggest that it might be wise for you to wear a monitor from now on. That way we will know almost as soon as you do when you go into labour and we will be ready and waiting for you." Kitty said. "Oh great." Dahlia replied. Kitty turned to Marah and requested a fetal monitor and instructed her where to find it, Marah set off to grab the device and was back in a couple moments. She passed the monitor to Kitty who set it in place. "There we go. Now unless you have any questions Mrs Jackson you're free to go." Kitty said. Dahlia shook her head and rose to leave. "It was very nice meeting you Dahlia." Marah said with a smile. After Dahlia had left Kitty turned back to her. "Whilst I'm not especially worried, twins can be tricky sometimes. It might be an idea to get everything ready now." She said. "A wise precaution." Marah replied. "I'll begin setting everything up in the surgical bay." (reply Kitty iyw) (posted by Milo Young) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Sickbay - MO - Lt (sg) Kitty Fisher - Day 11 -1220) "Whilst I'm not especially worried, twins can be tricky sometimes. It might be an idea to get everything ready now." Kitty said. "A wise precaution." Marah replied. "I'll begin setting everything up in the surgical bay." Kitty nodded. "Fine. Whilst you're at it make sure that there are two neonatal support units there where we can reach them quickly. But make sure that they aren't obvious. I'd rather not have them be the first thing Dahlia sees when she enters the bay." (Reply Marah) "You've helped with births before, haven't you?" (Reply Marah) Smiling Kitty picked up another padd and copied everything on to it from the one she held. Handing it to Marah she smiled. "Keep this with you at all times it will alert you once Dahlia goes into labour. "She seemed to get on really well with you. That can be more important than anything else during labour so as from now I would get as much rest as you can whilst you can. When that alarm goes off I expect you to be tripping over my heels to get through that door. Ok?" (Reply Marah) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Sickbay - Marah Neru -1221) Kitty nodded. "Fine. Whilst you're at it make sure that there are two neonatal support units there where we can reach them quickly. But make sure that they aren't obvious. I'd rather not have them be the first thing Dahlia sees when she enters the bay." Marah knew what Kitty was saying, seeing such a device would likely give her the wrong idea and upset her. "I'll be discreet in their placement." Marah said. "We wouldn't want to upset her at such a delicate time." "You've helped with births before, haven't you?" Marah nodded. "I've assisted the doctor on Axtis III deliver a few babies." Marah replied. "A few times on various freighters I volunteered my services and helped deliver a baby on one. One thing I'm come to know is that no matter the species all babies come kicking and screaming." She added. Smiling Kitty picked up another padd and copied everything on to it from the one she held. Handing it to Marah she smiled. "Keep this with you at all times it will alert you once Dahlia goes into labour. She seemed to get on really well with you. That can be more important than anything else during labour so as from now I would get as much rest as you can whilst you can. When that alarm goes off I expect you to be tripping over my heels to get through that door. Ok?" "Alright." Marah replied taking the padd. "Once the alarm goes off I'll be right behind you, closer than your shadow." Marah smiled. "Dahlia and I have a few things in common, that's why we hit it off so well. I understand her concerns regarding Tom because I have the same ones about Ben, speaking of which he's going to be very surprised to find Tom back on the Rosenante when he returns." Marah turned to head to the surgical bay. "I'll prep the bay and then call it a day." She said. "You know where to find me if you need me." (reply Fisher iyw) (posted by Milo Young) ------------------------- Uss Rosenante COPS Quarters Dahlia Jackson Day 11 1425) Dahlia lay on their couch thinking while rubbing her ever growing tummy. The twins were especially active at that moment. ~My soon to be babies what are you thinking and feeling?~ she ideally thought. As if in response the babies both kicked. That caused her to jump slightly. Up till now her pregnancy had been basically normal. She could not shake a feeling this wasn't to remain so. Tom was a typical male - supposing it was a case of nerves. Dahlia knew different. One thing Tom hadn't learned about his wife was that she could on occasion sense the future. This instinct was was at red alert. This meant one thing only - this birth was not going to be easy (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) -------------------------- (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – Science Department – Crewman Andrew Maddox – 1649) Xim turned to Lieutenant Jackson. “You, mister Maddox and Chief Fuller will be responsible for setting up the pattern enhancers, so that the team will be able to beam out of the facility when we are finished. You will then begin your sweep to the west of our entry area taking along a security team. I will lead a team in the opposite direction. Is everyone clear on our mission?" Andrew echoed the affirmative along with everyone else. The Rangers walked around and started passing out harnesses and giving short blocks of instruction on their wear and use. He adjusted his harness and equipment for the descent. One more check around by the repel master, and each of the teams hooked up to their fast lines in order of movement. Nate as the senior enlisted and Lieutenant Xim as the officer in charge were the last in the order. Maddox was more than a little nervous, he looked over at Chief Fuller who seemed to sense the young man’s apprehension and showed a re-assuring smile and a ‘thumbs up’. The time to go had quickly approached. "Masks on!" the massive Lieutenant called, "And move forward ready to deploy!" He put his mask on but, the eyes of the man of science got wide as his time to deploy rapidly approached. He closed his eyes tightly shaking his head rapidly from side to side attempting to will the obstacle away, but without success. Terror washed over his body. His eyes cracked open and Chief Fuller filled the view as they widened. “Crewman, you’d better learn to trust your equipment because if you don’t jump down that stinking hole, I’m going to monkey stomp you until the next available window opens do you understand me?” The senior enlisted man’s voice was loud enough to be heard over the rustle of equipment and the metallic zing of snap-links and pulleys against durable alloy cabling. Andrew nodded his acknowledgement and when his turn came up he ran up to the edge with his eyes closed and jumped, his dominant hand naturally activated the break as his training took over. He looked down the hole and suddenly realized, “Hey, hey I can do this!” he said to himself under his breath as he continued to descend. (reply any) (Posted by Todd) --------------------------- Rogue Planet – Service Corridor – Chief Field Medic – MCPO Nathan Fuller – 1712) Once the pattern enhancers were in place, all six of them, Nate checked his remaining equipment and began following Lieutenant Jackson. Jackson took Xim’s order to investigate the corridor. He deployed the security team as a safety perimeter. The team was moving slow and cautiously taking care to clear corners and ensure that there were no security systems or traps in place. Lt Jackson spoke to his team "Here's what will happen folks. I and a couple of the security folks are going in first then the rest. Chief Fuller you are the tail end Charlie. Should anything go wrong Chief you are ordered to get the remaining folks out of danger" Nate responded with a silent ‘thumbs up’ indicating his receipt of the message, his understanding and acknowledgement. Not long and the teams were doing what they were supposed to be doing. Some time elapsed before anything of note happened. Suddenly the lights dimmed and just as quickly returned to normal brightness. Seems an Engineering Tech Crewman Tompkins had broken an IR beam. Tom breathed a sigh of relief and then chuckled. Tompkins had turned a very pale white. "Thank you Mr. Tompkins. We now know the previous owners used IR relays for light control" Tom said to startled young man. Tom issued another order "OK folks let's see if we can figure out what these stands are for.. Remember take your time and be careful ok"? Fuller took the time to scan around with his medical tricorder. He wasn’t really expecting to find any of the higher order life forms here, nothing bigger then a paramecium. Suddenly one of the consoles’ contents triggered a hit on Nate’s tricorder. “Got a hit over here, sir.” Nate announced. (Reply Lt. Jackson) “Scanning sir, initial analysis indicates an organic compound of some sort.” (Reply Lt. Jackson) “Compounds similar to a mold but it’s been processed.” He said further investigating. “Permission to open the compartment?” Nate asked. He had theories but he really wanted to get a look at it with an older scanning device, Mark I eye-ball. (Reply Lt. Jackson) The immediate area was cleared, a sensible precaution, and Fuller lifted a latch on the small labeled compartment. Once open a small package was pushed out with a similar label. The tricorder did not indicate that the small package had any hazardous materials in it, so he opened it. The small container was filled with bandages, and other out of date by Starfleet standards, medical supplies. “First aid kit.” Nate announced. (Reply Lt Jackson) “The mold-compounds are an early antibiotic salve. They could use it for minor cuts and scrapes to aid in healing.” Nate explained. “Most of ours are more towards the synthetic now.” (Reply Lt Jackson) (Posted by Todd) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet –Service Corridor – LT. Tom Jackson COPS - Day 11 –1716) Tim had issused his orders. The team was busily working when Chief Fuller said “Got a hit over here, sir.” Nate announced.m walked to where Nate Fuller was and looked closely at the Chief's findings. Jackson wasn't much of a scientist but he did understand enough to agree with Nate. "Good catch Chief" Tom said returning the Chief's thumbs up. Nate’s tricorder. “Got a hit over here, sir.” Nate announced “Scanning sir, initial analysis indicates an organic compound of some sort.” Nate explained further “Compounds similar to a mold but it’s been processed.” He said further investigating. “Permission to open the compartment?” "Take over Chief" Tom ordered. (Reply: Chief) (Posted by: Bill W.) ------------------------- (Interior Rogue Planet LT. Tom Jackson COPS Day11 1726) Tom gathered the team together. The point security team reported no known booby traps. That information helped but there was always a possibility that there was a trap they could not tech with their equipment. Tom spoke to his team "Here's what will happen folks. I and a couple of the security folks are going in first then the rest. Chief Fuller you are the tail end Charlie. Should anything go wrong Chief you are ordered to get the remaining folks out of danger" Tom waited to allow for comments. (Reply: anyone) Tom took a deep breath and entered what Ppeared to be control room. It was brightly lit and a bit cool. He walked over and felt the walls they too were cool and very smooth. He scanned the wall in an effort to determine it's composition. It ESA vaguely familiar but not sufficiently so to register on his tricorder. His team was busily scanning the area. Tom thought a minute. He had one of moments were along forgotten but of knowledge came back to him. This materillal reminded him of something in a long forgotten Enginering class. The material was close to tri-tanium. It was hard but not bulky. Jackson did some manual tests on the material. He found something that might had been a tech's tool long ago. He tried to break in and could not. Tom next tried scaring it and again could not do so. Tom looked around the area noticing several rectangular stands - what might be consoles. They had knobs of various shapes and sizes. This gave Tom a hunch that this was a power control center or maintenance area. Suddenly the lights dimmed and just as quickly returned to normal brightness. Seems an Enginnering tech nMed tompkipsns had broken an Ir beam. Tom breathed a sigh of relief and then chuckled. Tompkins had turned a very pale white. "Thank you Mr Tompkins.we now know the previous owners used irrelays for light control" Tom said to startled young man. Tom issued another order "ok folks let's see if we can figure out what these stands are for.. Remember take yourt time and be careful ok"? (Reply: any on team) (Posted by: Bill W.) -------------------------- (Interior Rogue Planet LT. Tom Jackson Day 11 1745) Ton Jackson stood puzzling at what looked line a control panel. So far nothing had turned up. Ensign Simpson reported "Sir, I think I've figured something out over here. Tom walked over to where the young officer indicated. Jackson looked at the readings. Tom saw the indicated pattern. The pattern was regular on off then on. The cycle lasted about thirty seconds before repeating. Tom's earlier suspicions about this being something of a control center was verified. The panel had three basic shapes - triangular, square and a octogon. He thought for a moment and had a flash of insight. He was betting on the octogon being related to a cessation of something. That shape seemed to be universal for stopping. "Over here Chief" indicating he wanted Nate over where he and Simpson were. (Reply: Nate) Tom and Simpson went over what they had figured out. "What do you think?" Tom asked. (Reply : Nate, Any present) (Posted by: Bill W.) ------------------------- (Interior Rogue Planet- GSL Lieutenant Xim Day 11 1749) Xim and his small security contingent moved silently down the corridor in the direction opposite that of Jackson's team. The massive officer took up a good portion of the available space in the corridor, and it was apparent by the construction of the doorways, that the people that had built this facility were closer in height to a normal human being, than they were close to his own height. Of course, it was Xim's assessment that there weren't very many species that grew to comparable heights to Betelgeuseans. They eventually came to the termination of the corridor. Ahead of them was one of the familiar doors that had lined the corridor that they had conversed. Xim didn't really understand the concept of intuition, in this case the unexplainable lack of interest in other compartments, while simultaneously being 'drawn' to this particular portal. The captain would say that Xim was over analyzing his thoughts and assigning needless meaning to apparently random decisions. Xim simply felt that he was being guided by a higher force, perhaps Vilok or Nasij, two of the more attentive of his people's Ancient Gods whose aspects were most prominent in himself. Still, he could almost feel a desire to open the door and move into the compartment beyond. He stepped forward, bending deeply at the knees and back to lower himself beneath the top threshold of the portal. The door slid open with a grunt and a grinding noise resulting from decades or centuries of disuse. Beyond lay the confines of a compartment deeply shrouded in shade. Xim gave his people a nod and then led the way inside. Almost immediately the team fanned out expecting anything. The door slid closed, plunging the room into almost complete darkness. A series of dim glowing shapes seemed to barely illuminate the area most immediate to their location. Then quite suddenly the lights snapped on and the entirety of the room was clearly see for the first time in centuries. Three large machines seemed to dominate the compartment. They were cylindrical in shape, two standing upright, while the third seemed to be positioned as if laying on its side. The lights came from light blue glowing light strips inset within the ceiling of the room, which was made of the same materials as the corridors. As series of bulbs, some of which were semi-transparent, and appeared to be filled with some sort of electro-plasma. It was not entirely dissimilar to a warp core. The overturned cylinder seemed to be a control panel. Several glowing shapes could be seen and a streams of data in the alien script that predominated the corridors moved rapidly across the screen. "Spread out and have a look around, but be careful of what you touch, we don't know what these devices do." Xim ordered. His officers replied, each pulling out their tricorders and beginning scans. Xim tapped his commbadge. "Xim to Jackson and Fuller. We seem to have located some sort of machinery, that looks similar to a warp core, and a series of computers which may hold important data. What have you discovered?" (reply Maddox, Jackson, Any) Daniel Greene ------------------------- (Interior Rogue Planet- COPS Lieutenant Tom Jackson Day 11 1752) Tom's thoughts were interrupted by the call from Xim. "Xim to Jackson and Maddox. We seem to have located some sort of machinery, that looks similar to a warp core, and a series of computers which may hold important data. What have you discovered?" Tom considered their meager findings and mentally composed his response. "Jackson to Xim. We seem to to be in a type of small control center. There are several control panels. We believe that the octagonal shape control indicates a STOP function". Tom paused allowing leader to reply. (Reply: Xim) Jackson continued his report. "We discovered that the people who created this facility use Infra red relays to control lighting functions. That is about it" Tom added. (Reply : Xim ) (Posted by: Bill W.) ------------------------- (U.S.S. Rosenante- Stellar Cartogrophy- SOps/QM- LT Chance Raschen- 1753) Chance had spent, what felt like, countless hours trying to figure out how to knock the rogue planet off its course and into a less immediately harmful direction. He finally sat down in the realization that the Rosenante didn't have enough anything to move it off its current course. "What the hell am I gonna do?" Chance started talking to himself as he tapped his head like Winnie the Pooh as if saying "think think think". He started walking around the room, looking at the 3-D image of the Rogue planet, the Rose, as well as the endangered planet and the surrounding system. Then he suddenly sat up with a gleam in his eye, and bolted from the room to find a Scientist to test his idea to see if it is viable enough to deal with the ethical and legal implications. (Reply any iyw) (Posted by Charlie Raschen) ------------------------- (Interior Rogue Planet - Science Department – Crewman Andrew Maddox – 1812) "Spread out and have a look around, but be careful of what you touch, we don't know what these devices do." Xim ordered. Xim tapped his combadge. "Xim to Jackson and Fuller. We seem to have located some sort of machinery, that looks similar to a warp core, and a series of computers which may hold important data. What have you discovered?" While the other team reported, Andrew got to work on discovering what exactly was in the computer banks or consoles that were in front of them. He started with scanning using his tricorder to figure out what was connected to what and if any compounds were familiar. He quickly found out that as it looked this chamber was a large matter / antimatter reactor. If his calculations were correct this reactor could power a mid-sized starship with it’s power output. ~Maybe an Excelsior or an Ambassador class.~ He mused to himself. “Looks to be an antimatter / matter reactor, though it doesn’t appear to be attached to any warp nacelles, it may be strictly for power.” “My readings confirm it.” One of the Engineers echoed. “Sir do you want us to fire up the reactor to put power to these consoles, or find back up batteries or use or power converter?” Maddox asked. (Reply Xim) “These consoles and other equipment seem to have been dormant for at least 100 years or more. Their dormancy does not appear to be disaster oriented, they may have been shut off manually or as a fuel preserve function after no input from users for a long while. I honestly can’t find out what may happen if we fire it up. Can’t pull it off, sir, not with this equipment.” (Reply Xim) “Understood sir, I’ll search for batteries, and use our power as a last resort.” He said. He searched letting his tricorder lead him, and soon found something. A great deal of stored chemical potential energy in a half-man sized console in the corner. He opened the panel beneath it, which revealed a series of twelve battery packs lined in four sets of three, two on top and two on bottom. “Sir found some cadmium ion batteries. They don’t appear to have enough power to keep the consoles running for any length of time. They may be present to store information like codes or a current date and time. I recommend going to our power converter. It will take us some time to find their power requirements, however it will allow us all the time we need to download whatever we want.” (Reply Xim) (Posted by Todd) ------------------------- ========================= Compiled by Marilyn =========================