USS Soval Compile - July 1st-31st 2016 by Tony Dalessio ================================================================= Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (Shuttle Copernicus – Crew Compartment – Science Officer – Lt Andrew Maddox – 0954) (USS Soval - Ready Room - CTac - LT Raschen - 1155) (USS Soval - Bridge - Cmdr Jackson - 1230) (USS Soval - Deck 4, Main Shuttlebay - CTac - 1410) (USS Soval - Deck 4, Main Shuttle Bay - Lieutenant Gibson - 1411) (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1412) (USS Soval - Deck 1, Main Bridge - Cmdr. Jackson FO - 1415) (USS Soval - Deck 4, Main Shuttlebay - CEO LCDR Brown - 1416) (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - Lieutenant Gibson - 1417) (USS Soval - Captain's Ready Room - CO Steven Matrix - 1418) (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1420) (USS Soval - Bridge - Cmdr Jackson FO - 1500) (USS Soval - Main Shuttlebay - CEO LCDR Brown - 1504) (USS Soval - Main Bridge - CO Steven Matrix - 1505) (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1507) (USS Soval - Deck 36, Main Engineering - CEO LCDR Brown - 1509) (USS Soval - Main Bridge - CO Steven Matrix - 1510) (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1511) (USS Soval - Deck 1, Main Bridge - FO CDR Jackson - 1512) (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - Lieutenant Gibson- 1513) (USS Soval - Deck 8, Theater - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 2100) (USS Soval - Deck 8, Theater - 3O Lieutenant(sg) Jessica Signos - 2103) (USS Soval - Deck 8, Theater - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 2106) ================================================================= Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (Shuttle Copernicus – Crew Compartment – Science Officer – Lt Andrew Maddox – 0954) Andrew sat in the back of the shuttle as he had for the past few hours while the shuttle was at warp. He saw an Andorian doctor reading from a PADD. ~ I should have brought one too, ~ he chastised himself. Anything to keep his mind off of what was ahead. He had requested a transfer from the Daystrom institute hoping to get back to the stars again. He knew his father wouldn’t approve, but he did it anyway. He might have thought about putting in for a specific assignment or not transferring at all had he known where he was going to be assigned. Not where, to whom. Andrew was nervous because the biggest mistake of his entire career, the man his dumb mistake almost killed, not only would he meet this man again, he was to be his commanding officer. His limbs were heavy. His palms were sweaty and his stomach was in knots. “Are you feeling well, Lieutenant?” The Andorian doctor asked, breaking the silence. “A little nervous, why sir?” he admitted. “I’m sure the shuttle has a med kit. I could give you an anti-nausea or a sedative…” she offered. “Thanks, I’ll be all right. It will pass.” He promised. “If you change your mind, let me know.” She said and went back to her reading before he could respond. Andrew opened his mouth to say something then realized she had already resumed ignoring him. Before he could gather himself to attempt to ignore his nausea the pilot interrupted. “Commander, we are with-in range of the Soval.” “Thank you Ensign. Hail them.” She ordered. The pilot nodded when he established the connection. “USS Soval, this Shuttle Copernicus with passengers for crew transfer. ETA at current speed…” she looked at Maddox. He thought, calculating the speed and distance in his head. ~ Nine minutes, fifty-eight seconds and seventy three hundredths, she doesn’t need that precise, round it up. ~ “..about 10 minutes, sir.” “ETA ten minutes at current speed and vector.” She relayed to the Soval. "Copernicus. This Commander Jackson, First Officer. Roger your transmission. You're cleared to land in the main shuttle bay." The doctor tilted an antennae then nodded to the pilot. Who looked puzzled, then had a moment of clarity. “Understood, Soval. Copernicus out.” The pilot responded then ended the transmission. (Reply none) (Posted by Todd) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Ready Room - CTac - LT Raschen - 1155) "As for the ghost ship we have only one option for when she shows herself and thats to yake the ship and her command crew by force. I am working on those plans now." Signos said as she motioned to the large pile of padds before her. She looked to Raschen. "As for the device you were speaking of it basically emits a false sensor echo of whatever ship placed it allowing for false scan of the area." Shaking his head as he spoke, “No, nothing so complicated. It simply submits a false report at a preset time. Those relays do not have sensors themselves so the relay’s designation on the report is the only ‘real’ secondary location mark for a report unless two or more ships are traveling together as a group and all submit reports through the same relay at the same time.” "The thing about sensor echoes is that all they are. They are designed to make us believe something that's not, and if we are to believe that this ship is traveling farther and faster than possible that means its already here cloaked and waiting on us to show our hand. Once we commit to a coarse of action it will find the opportune moment and strike." “Agreed.” was all he said. As the room cleared out, Chance sat back down in his chair and looked at Tom; hoping he would take the hint. Once the room was empty, except for the two of them, Chance turned to his friend and bluntly asked "Tom, I need you to throw me a bone on something, and don't try to feed me the company line." "O.k. Chance, what's on your mind old friend?" Tom asked. Chance hesitated for a split second before replying. Chance indicated he was not feeling fully informed about the mission and didn't want that to continue. He asked Tom for the 'straight poop'. Tom looked into his friends eyes ever so slightly. "Chance, honestly, there are things about this mission I've not been privy to myself" Jackson added. With an incredulous look on his face, Chance didn’t even hesitate, “ What the hell do you mean? You are the Executive Officer. How in God’s name are you not privy?” Tom went on "The captain, when we first started this mission, had conversations with the skipper of the Vengeance and I wasn't I involved. There is something SF command knows and is keeping it very close. Frankly, that worries me". Softening the glare he was giving to his friend, Raschen was starting to see some things finally start to fall into place. “Okay, I can see that. But in all fairness, you are the single only individual that the Captain should not be keeping secrets from. Remember how the leadership of the 52nd Fleet started figuring out who would support them before the Civil War?” Jackson added another tidbit. "You remember Pez I take it?. Well that scoundrel claims he knows nothing either. I, for one, find that hard to believe". “I got the same quick note from my mom and T’Lela’s dad, S’Adashiv.” Chance commented with frustrated understanding. "So my advice is to 'discreetly' do some digging on your own. Keep it to yourself and one trusted person" Tom added. I have contacted ‘Easy Ed’ on through alternate means, and with the help of some old I.F.F. and Maquis buddies that have been working for the company. Rumors and leads are being chased down.” "Ok lastly work with LCDR Brown and get us ready. Understood?" Tom said. “Of course” was all Chance said as he smirked and shrugged as he got up and headed out the door. (Reply Jackson iyw) (Posted by Charlie) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Bridge - Cmdr Jackson - 1230) Tom had just headed the Soval towards Khitomer. The Captain contacted him and ordered "best speed to Khitomer". "Ate, aye Captain' Tom replied and issued the necessary orders. "Helm, maximum -Warp direct to Khitomer" Tom ordered. The Soval seemed to leap forward as if she knew something was about to happen and she needed to get there ASAP! Turning to the Caitian ops officer, S'yves, Jackson ordered raise the USS Vengeance". In his soft, purr like voice, S'yves acknowledged the order. Silence nothing space noise was heard. S'yves continued trying but came up with same result. Tom was worried. This didn't bode well. He turned to Chance Raschen. Chance was a good man and Tom trusted his instincts. "Lieutenant, scan for anything that resembles StarFleet debris. I have a bad feeling I know the result." (Reply: Chance) The time passed slowly it seemed. This wad a time he wished the Soval had a fighter squadron as part of its compliment. They'd be extra eyes and he needed all the input possible. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 4, Main Shuttlebay - CTac - 1410) The ex-Privateer was running late for meeting Brown in the shuttlebay. He had gotten caught up in some research on the Vengeance in addition to her crew. He was a little surprised at some of what he found. Yet, there was also a lot that did not surprise him in the least. Unfortunately, most of it did not make any sense for the time being. As Chance entered the bay, he began to head toward his ship, the Tranquility. She was a heavily modified Raven-class cargo conversion ship. As a Blockade Runner, Privateer, and all around Scoundrel; Chance never really liked the idea of having the name of his ship painted on the hull. Which for him was a good thing. It made using pseudonyms for his ship that much easier. She had two retractable heavy Phaser turrets (one ventral and one dorsal), and had a magazine of 12 Flechette torpedoes. Each flechette housed 16 micro-Quantum torpedoes. And to help add insult to injury to the capital ships that had chased him over the years, she was able to maintain a cruising speed of warp 8.5. As far as any government in the quadrant were concerned, the Tranquility was your basic standard Raven-class cargo conversion. As Raschen made it to his ship, he started to lovingly run his hand across a part of the Tranquility’s hull when he started to hear voices from a distance talking excitedly about the capabilities of one of the fighter craft in the bay. Raschen stopped what he was doing, leaned against his ship and simply listened to the three younger men go on about the fighter. Yet, as he listened, he could not help but smile and remember back over the many years of wars, various battles / skirmishes, even time travel, to the time when he was young like them and excited about the same things. Once he recognized the three as Brown, Hartmann, and Gibson, Chance decided to be patient and wait as he eavesdropped as much as he could on their conversation. As he watched and listened, Raschen had come to a couple of conclusions about the assembled group. Hartmann was a good kid; young, idealistic, and while true he has had a couple of rough patches in life (who hasn’t?), and he seems to have a crush for Jessica. Next is Brown; an Engineer that seems to get giddy at the idea of learning something new. And finally, Gibson; a individual whose file is filled with less fact than it is fiction. Something suddenly hit Raschen about Gibson’s file. It read a lot like Chance’s file did when he served the Loyalist faction during the Civil War, but at that time the 52nd Fleet and the Dennison crew knew him as Chance Temerarious. Chance decided then to use his own history with Starfleet as a baseline to investigate Gibson’s. Deep down, Raschen hoped he was wrong about Gibson, but on the other hand, he would be ready to torture the lad in a heartbeat if needed. (Reply any iyw) (Posted by Charlie) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 4, Main Shuttle Bay - Lieutenant Gibson - 1411) Gibson was a big giddy about showing off 'his' ship. The Valkyrie was an engineering marvel by most standards. Not many 'regular' Star Fleet personnel had been allowed a close inspection of STI's latest gadget. Gibson didn't mind, and he was under orders to cooperate fully with the investigation and mission. By now Captain Matrix had already been made aware of the new requisition decreed by STI and Captain Wyke. Whatever the Soval's crew learned about the Valkyrie was now sanctioned. "I want one." Gibson smiled, "Perhaps I can give you a check ride?" Hartmann chuckled. "Does she fly as nice as she looks?" "Have you ever had the opportunity to nero-link a shuttle? If you have, its similar but you're physically attached. Once you get used to the tactile experience and know her limitations, she responds nearly as fast as you think." continued Gibson. (Reply Hartmann) Hartmann grinned appreciatively. "Looks like she's packing some firepower too. I bet the Chief would dig these pulse phasers. I kinda want to call her up here to check it out, but I'm afraid she might not give it back." Gibson smiled, "I suspect you'll have an opportunity or two to see how she works." (Reply Hartmann - IYW) (Posted by Steve) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1412) Hartmann sat in the Valkyrie's cockpit, leering almost lasciviously at the control panels surrounding him. The Valkyrie had a different feel from any other vessel he'd ever piloted. Every button and switch was in the perfect position, as if the designers had consulted actual fighter pilots when creating the layout. Instead of a flat HUD on the canopy, this ship had a three-dimensional navigation and tracking display projected in front of the pilot. Best of all, it was equipped with an actual, honest-to-goodness hands-on control stick instead of the flat panels used to pilot most modern starships. The panels were fine for a lumbering capital ship, but when zipping through the middle of a pitched battle there was nothing quite like the tactile feedback of an actual stick. While the cockpit wasn't as large as a Peregrine's it was still roomy enough to allow for comfort, and Hartmann leaned back in the seat as if settling into the arms of a lover and reclined contentedly in the ambient green glow. "I want one." Gibson smiled, "Perhaps I can give you a check ride?" Hartmann chuckled. "Does she fly as nice as she looks?" "Have you ever had the opportunity to nero-link a shuttle? If you have, its similar but you're physically attached. Once you get used to the tactile experience and know her limitations, she responds nearly as fast as you think." continued Gibson. Hartmann grinned appreciatively. "Looks like she's packing some firepower too. I bet the Chief would dig these pulse phasers. I kinda want to call her up here to check it out, but I'm afraid she might not give it back." Gibson smiled, "I suspect you'll have an opportunity or two to see how she works." Brown nodded politely to Gibson as he approached, and smiled up at Hartmann. "Planning on taking her for a spin, Lieutenant?" Hartmann sat up straight in the pilot's seat and peered over the edge of the cockpit at Brown. "I sure hope so," he beamed, unable to hide his excitement. "This bird is sweet. I guess I'm lucky the Chief wants to be on the boarding team herself, otherwise she might be flying it. These cannons are really her style, ya know?" (Reply Gibson iyw) "Your boss doesn't need that kind of firepower... she's a walking weapon as is I'd say," Brown replied. "That's true," Hartmann smirked in reply, "but that won't stop her. She's always looking for new ways to cause damage." (Reply Gibson iyw) Brown chuckled lightly and pulled himself gracefully up the tiny boarding ladder. He leaned into the cockpit and took it all in, whistling in quiet appreciation. He cocked his head slightly and ventured, "I've got a couple of marine friends who would love to get their hands on one of these beauties." He turned and looked at Gibson, his smile fading immediately. "But of course we can't exactly talk about these... or pretty much anything else we've seen, can we?" he asked rhetorically. "Compartmentalized information cuts both ways, doesn't it?" he said aloud, but mostly to himself. "Fine by me," Hartmann chuckled. "The fewer people who know about these, the less competition the rest of us will have to fly 'em." (Reply Gibson iyw) Brown excused himself and dropped back to the bay floor, making his way toward Tranquility. Hartmann turned his attention back to Gibson. "So exactly how physically attached to the ship do you get with this neurolink?" (Reply Gibson) "I guess what I'm really asking is, do you feel pain if the ship gets hit?" (Reply Gibson) (posted by Tony) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 1, Main Bridge - Cmdr. Jackson FO - 1415) Tom had taken the helm after speaking with the Captain. His mind was a swirl of many conflicting thoughts. The skipper was in talks with SF command. His instructions were to heard towards Khitomer and locate/contact the Vengeance. Nothing has been heard from her for an extended period. "Helm, very set acdirect course towards Khitomer -Warp 4 engage when ready" Tom ordered. The Soval streaked toward her unknown future. Tom's 'sixth sense ' was screaming wildly. "Tactical, scan for any abnormalities and have our weapons online but in safe mode" Jackson ordered. (Reply: Tactical) Tom decided that a heightened alert was needed. As a precaution he ordered "Yellow Alert". He had no reason Yet to go to Red Alert but wanted to be ready. The activity level ratcheted up a new d the ship tensed for action. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill) Cmdr. Tom Jackson First Officer USS Soval ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 4, Main Shuttlebay - CEO LCDR Brown - 1416) Realizing that he was now a few minutes late and that Chance must be waiting for him, Dan politely extricated himself from the conversation with Gibson and Hartmann. He jumped down from the boarding ladder and landed lightly, casting a last speculative glance at the fighter as he made his way toward Tranquility. He took it all in as he approached -- at least what was visible. He suspected that with a personal craft under the command of a man like Raschen, there was far more to the little ship than what casual observation might reveal. To Brown's trained eye, she was manifestly a modified (probably considerably) Raven class cargo vessel. As he'd guessed, the vast majority of whatever modifications the Captain had made to his craft were not readily apparent. One thing that did get Brown's attention was the size of, or rather the oversize of, the little ship's intercoolers. A non engineer might well miss it, but to Dan they were apparent. The enlarged scale of the intercoolers would allow the entire warp drive system to dissipate an inordinate amount of thermal energy. Meaning, she was going to be faster, and/or more powerful by a considerable amount than her standard design. Dan suspected it was probably both. As he got closer he saw Raschen around a curve of the hull which had previously concealed him from view. Brown waved and spoke a greeting as he approached. "Sorry I'm late Chance, I got sidetracked by something shiny," he offered with a grin. "And before you give me Hell about it, I realize that 'all that glitters is not gold," Brown finished with a serious look. (Reply Raschen iyw) "Anyway, we've got business to conduct. She's a beauty, your ship. Pardon the curiousity... Tranquility? Did you name her?" (Reply Raschen, Any) (Posted by Russ) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - Lieutenant Gibson - 1417) Gibson allowed Hartmann to sit in the Valkyrie's cockpit and take it all in. He liked showing off 'his' toy whenever he had the chance and he hadn't had the opportunity to do so in a very long time. Fleet designer's didn't count and couldn't really appreciate the bond the pilot had with his personal ship. "I want one." Gibson smiled, "Perhaps I can give you a check ride?" Hartmann chuckled. "Does she fly as nice as she looks?" "Have you ever had the opportunity to nero-link a shuttle? If you have, its similar but you're physically attached. Once you get used to the tactile experience and know her limitations, she responds nearly as fast as you think." continued Gibson. Hartmann continued, "Looks like she's packing some firepower too. I bet the Chief would dig these pulse phasers. I kinda want to call her up here to check it out, but I'm afraid she might not give it back." Gibson smiled, "I suspect you'll have an opportunity or two to see how she works." Brown surprised Gibson and interjected, "Planning on taking her for a spin, Lieutenant?" "I sure hope so, this bird is sweet. I guess I'm lucky the Chief wants to be on the boarding team herself, otherwise she might be flying it. These cannons are really her style, ya know?" "Sounds like you have a true warrior type." interjected Gibson. "Your boss doesn't need that kind of firepower... she's a walking weapon as is I'd say," Brown replied. "That's true, but that won't stop her. She's always looking for new ways to cause damage." continued Hartmann. "Perhaps we should just give her a check ride and let her loose with the Valkyrie? Might end the mission by days?" replied Gibson. Commander Brown chuckled and leaned into the cockpit, "I've got a couple of marine friends who would love to get their hands on one of these beauties. But of course we can't exactly talk about these... or pretty much anything else we've seen, can we?" he asked rhetorically. "Compartmentalized information cuts both ways, doesn't it?" "Fine by me," Hartmann chuckled. "The fewer people who know about these, the less competition the rest of us will have to fly 'em." "So exactly how physically attached to the ship do you get with this neuro-link?" Brown asked. "I don't follow?" replied Gibson. "I guess what I'm really asking is, do you feel pain if the ship gets hit?" "No...its not quite like that...only if the inertia dampeners fail or there is a hull breach or well...you just explode." replied Gibson. (Reply Brown, Hartmann - IYW) (Posted by Steve) ---- Captain Steven Matrix Commanding Officer, USS Soval ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Captain's Ready Room - CO Steven Matrix - 1418) It was starting to add up. Conflicting, confusing orders, secret closed door meetings between Federation allies, communications chatter from all divisions and sector ships. Nothing came of the jaunt to Ajilon Prime, dead end and no sign of the Vengeance. That was okay. Sometimes a lack of information was information in itself. He was starting to get a picture of who was behind these hit and run attacks. In no smart part from Gibson's Valkyrie logs thanks to his engineers and security operatives. Matrix was fixed on his LCARS display, showing the latest results of a long range scan no more than an hour old. Three rectangular references dotted the scan parameters, each color denoting other details. Two of the rectangular references exhibited high power readings and unverified ship type and identity. One marked 'inconclusive' and the third 'weak' power readings. Tactical details of the Soval showed she was already en route to Khitomer per Commander Jackson. The third reference troubled him...deeply. He shook his head, rejecting the premise. "Can't be." he said aloud. The thought crept through his mind in a sort of offhand way, but then a greater concern began to build. Although his fellows were as stealthy as he was when it came to their patrols, he was always aware of their presence. He just knew they were out there, sensing on some fundamental level that they were making their way around the sector, checking every kilometer of the area, staying on top of their duty. The Vengeance and her Captain well seasoned. ~I hope Lieutenant Raschen has found it.~ thought Matrix. =^=Commander Jackson. Make best speed to Khitomer.=^= (Reply Jackson - IYW) (Posted by Steve) ---- Captain Steven Matrix Commanding Officer, USS Soval ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1420) Hartmann was silent for a moment, contemplating the possibilities of a ship that responded to its pilot's thoughts as well as tactile input. It seemed like a pilot that could maneuver, target and fire at the speed of thought would have a definite advantage over any opponent without that technology. No wonder Starfleet wanted to keep it under wraps. "So exactly how physically attached to the ship do you get with this neuro-link?" Hartmann asked. "I don't follow?" replied Gibson. "I guess what I'm really asking is, do you feel pain if the ship gets hit?" "No...its not quite like that...only if the inertia dampeners fail or there is a hull breach or well...you just explode." replied Gibson. "Yeah, I can see how exploding might hurt a little," Hartmann smiled. "Is it disorienting when you link up?" (Reply Gibson) Hartmann once again gazed longingly at the controls before him. If he was excited to fly the Valkyrie before he was absolutely chomping at the bit now. "So, when do we get to take them out?" he asked, only partially successful in disguising his eagerness. (Reply Gibson iyw) (posted by Tony) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate:2415.10.05. (USS Soval - Bridge - Cmdr Jackson FO - 1500) Standing near the FO, Matrix took a long gaze at the primary display, looked at Commander Jackson for an explanation. None was offered. "My god." said Matrix aloud. Tom yelled " Battestations ". The Soval soon was bathed in red light and blaring klaxxons. The scene opened up in slow motion, his gut tightened but he didn't move. "Report" said Matrix as he took his seat. Tom began his report"When we dropped out of warp, we fell into a hot fire fight. The Vengeance is for all purposes a derelict. Life signs are intermittent Sir" (REPLY: Matrix) They were soon taking hits but the shield's were so far holding. (Reply: Any) (Posted by: Bill) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttlebay - CEO LCDR Brown - 1504) Chance and Dan were deep in discussion outside the Tranquility. Despite Dan's late arrival, Chance had thus far done a marvelous job at quickly bringing the Chief Engineer up to speed as promised. Dan was about to ask yet another technical question of the veteran officer when the battle illumination came on, giving the cavernous space an eerie glow. The computer's emotionless delivery made the message no less ominous. [Red Alert, all hands to Battlestations. Red Alert, all hands to Battlestations...] Brown tuned the repetitive announcement out, immediately focusing on what might be going on. ~Definitely not a drill this time!~ He looked at Raschen and wasted no time. "We'll have to finish this later," he called over his shoulder as he sprinted for the corridor and the nearest turbolift. (Reply Raschen IYW, Any) (USS Soval - Deck 36, Main Engineering - CEO LCDR Brown - 1506) The blast doors to engineering were open when he arrived. Fortunately the call to quarters had come at shift change, so ready damage control teams were mostly formed and duty engineers were at the assigned stations when Brown arrived. He glanced around, and was pleased to see his junior officers and senior enlisted each doing their thing. He walked to the master situation display and quizzed the duty engineer. "Ensign O'Neill, a concise report if you would?" The younger man displayed poise beyond his years and answered Brown without turning away from his trouble board. "Sir, it seems we're under attack. Strength and identity of enemy force is unknown. I snuck a glance at the tactical repeater display, it looks like the Vengeance is here, and they are pretty much dead in the water. We've taken several hits on the forward shields, they are holding at full power thus far." "Very well. Nice report, thank you," said Brown as he put his hand lightly on the engineers shoulder. One last quick glance around then he tabbed the comm on the panel in front of him. "Bridge, engineering and primary damage control teams manned and ready, standing by for orders." (Reply Any) (Posted by Russ) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: (USS Soval - Main Bridge - CO Steven Matrix - 1505) "Report" said Matrix as he took his seat. Tom began his report. "When we dropped out of warp, we fell into a hot fire fight. The Vengeance is for all purposes a derelict. Life signs are intermittent Sir" "Helm bring us between the attacking vessel and the Vengeance. Photon torpedoes full spread...lock on and fire at will." ordered Matrix. "Matrix to sick bay prepare for inbound causalities from the Vengeance. Noah...this may get ugly in a hurry. Matrix out." (Reply Noah - IYW) "Evasive!" ordered Matrix, but it was too late. The volley of energy weapons impacted the Soval's port side rendering the inertial dampeners offline for several seconds. "Damage report!" ordered Matrix. (Reply any) "Engineering report." (Reply Brown) (Reply any) (Posted by Steve) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1507) With Gibson's help, Alex had learned the layout of the Valkyrie's cockpit pretty quickly. Most of the controls were similar to the ones in other fighters he was more familiar with, just rearranged or, in many cases, updated with new capabilities. Alex was just starting to think he was ready to take the craft for a spin when red lights began to flash throughout the bay. He spun his head to face Gibson in the oher fighter's cockpit. "Sounds like we might have to take a raincheck on that checkout flight and skip to the real thing!" (Reply Gibson) Alex activated the fighter's com system and opened a channel to the bridge. He opened his mouth to speak and realized he wasn't sure how to identify his fighter. =/\= Hartmann to bridge. I'm in one of the Valkyries. Requesting clearance to launch. =/\= (Reply any) =/\= Copy that, preparing for takeoff. =/\= He called out to Gibson again. "Starting pre-flight checks." (Reply Gibson) Alex intently watched the cockpit's holographic display as the ship ran its automated check sequence. One by one green lights appeared until the system declared it was ready for takeoff. He donned the flight helmet and lowered the canopy into place, then hailed Raschen's ship. =/\= Hartmann to Tranquility, we're about to scramble. You coming with us, Lieutenant? =/\= (Reply Raschen, any) (Posted by Tony) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 36, Main Engineering - CEO LCDR Brown - 1509) Scant few moments had passed since his ready report to the bridge, when the Soval lurched and shook from an impact. Much harder than she should have. Brown was at the main trouble board and took it in rapidly. An awful lot of things were happening that shouldn't be, but engineering was attempting to deal with them... with varying degrees of success. "Ok Mister O'Neill, if we can just---" =^=Damage control team two alpha to engineering, urgent. Port shield generators are offline, we're having some trouble getting the secondaries to engage.=^+ "I noticed," replied Brown with a mixture of aplomb and frustration. "We've extended the fore and aft shield envelope to cover the hole, but the generators can't maintain that long. What's the issue?" he asked as he continued to assess the situation in engineering. There was a lengthy pause on the open comm, over which Brown could hear some hard to identify noises and some very easy to identify muttered profanity. =^=Can't be sure yet sir... I *think* it's hardware... but it might be software, we're checking now.=^= Brown looked over his shoulder and raised his voice enough to be heard clearly over the increased noise level in the cavernous compartment. "Chief Clarke, deflector control. Dee See two alpha needs some more experienced eyes. Go." With a nod, the senior chief was off at a trot. All during the conversation with the damage control team leader, Brown had been formulating as complete a picture as he could. It wasn't pretty, but they would improve it. Just in time, too. =^=Engineering, report,=^= came the Captain's calm voice. ~Better not keep the man waiting!~ "Captain, that heavy hit we took disabled the inertial dampers temporarily. There was a delay before they auto reset and stabilized, that was why the lurch was excessive. More serious problem sir is the port shields. That torpedo volley or whatever it was knocked out the primary port shield generators. The damage control team is on it, but they can't get the secondary generators to come on line. I've extended the fore and aft shield envelopes to cover the gap, but that puts an enormous strain on the generators. We're on it sir, I'll keep you updated." (Reply Matrix, Any) (Posted by Russ) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Bridge - CO Steven Matrix - 1510) "Engineering, report." =^=Captain, that heavy hit we took disabled the inertial dampers temporarily. There was a delay before they auto reset and stabilized, that was why the lurch was excessive. More serious problem sir is the port shields. That torpedo volley or whatever it was knocked out the primary port shield generators. The damage control team is on it, but they can't get the secondary generators to come on line. I've extended the fore and aft shield envelopes to cover the gap, but that puts an enormous strain on the generators. We're on it sir, I'll keep you updated.=^= Reported Commander Brown. "Very well commander..." replied Matrix. Surprise washed over Steve's face as the Soval absorbed the first salvo thrown at her. "Helm keep our port side away from the enemy vessel." continued Matrix. "Any damage to the other ship?" asked Matrix. (Reply any) "Lets up the ante...quantum torpedo full spread!" ordered Matrix. (Reply any) A few moments passed before four quantum torpedoes were released from their respective launchers. The bright green spherical orbs took only milliseconds to lock on to their target. Four distinct impacts appeared on the adversaries hull sending debris into open space. "Damage report on the enemy ship." asked Matrix. ~Damn she's a tough one.~ (Reply any) "Helm Z minus 5, increase to half impulse...change course to 223-mark 13." ordered Matrix. (Reply any) As the Soval made the course change, the enemy vessel came into full view. Her overall design showed similarities to starship design's he'd seen in engineering briefings eons ago. ~She almost looks like she came out of Utopia Planitia.~ "What can anyone tell me about that ship?" asked Matrix. (Reply tactical, any) A second volley of torpedoes emerged from the enemy vessel, but they didn't seem to be tracking. The five orbs traversed the trajectory path of the Soval and arched off the port side and quickly disappeared from view. "Where are those going?" asked Matrix. "Either he's a bad shot, there's another target or their weapon guidance is offline...any theories?" asked Matrix. ~Or we're in for a surprise.~ (Reply any) (Posted by Steve) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 1511) With the canopy firmly in place Alex plugged the wire running from the back of the helmet into a jack on the front console. He felt an unfamiliar tingle in his scalp that expanded to fill his head in a wave of dizziness. The initial sensation faded, but in its place he felt what he could only describe as super-awareness. As he looked around himself he could see the control panels, cockpit floor, seat and himself, but at the same time he could see the deck below his fighter, and the bay doors behind him. No, *see* wasn't quite the right word, but it was like his mind was getting sensory input from both his own body and the ship itself. The disorientation quickly passed for the most part, but getting totally comfortable with the neurolink would take some getting used to. Unfortunately they didn't have time for that. The bay doors slowly ground open and Alex activated the antigrav thrusters, lifting the Valkyrie gently from the deck. He swung its nose around to face the doors and tamped down a sudden bout of nausea as objects his eyes couldn't see rotated around him in his mind. He blinked away the feeling and reopened a comm channel. =/\= You weren't kidding, Lieutenant, =/\= he directed at Gibson. =/\= This neurolink is a hell of a trip. =/\= (Reply Gibson iyw) The entire shuttle bay shuddered around him. ~Time to get while the gettin's good. ~ =/\= Hartmann launching! =/\= Alex engaged the impulse engine and the fighter shot out the bay doors. Before he even saw it, he was aware of the enemy vessel trading fire with the Soval. It was about the same size as the Galaxy class ship but the configuration was like nothing he'd ever seen despite his near encyclopedic - and obsessive - knowledge of starship classes. It was long and black with a sleek teardrop shape and covered in large blisters, from which it seemed to fire its weapons. Long antenna-like structures poked out between the blisters like the quills of a porcupine. =/\= Ok, anybody know what that thing is? =/\= (Reply any) So far the enemy ship was ignoring the smaller craft, which was just fine with Alex. He began a wide loop around the vessel in an attempt to scan its structure and come up with a strategy other than just firing at random and hoping for the best. He transmitted his sensor data back to the Soval, hoping that someone there could help make more sense of it. =/\= All right, Soval, you're seeing what I'm seeing. Chief, think you can pick out any weak spots on this thing? =/\= (Reply Signos) =/\= Commander Brown, any guesses what she might be capable of? =/\= (Reply Brown) ~Well, I guess I can't just watch this thing all day,~ Alex thought. =/\= Permission to engage? =/\= (Reply Gibson, Raschen, any) (Posted by Tony) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 1, Main Bridge - FO CDR Jackson - 1512) The Soval was getting hammered hard. San Brown had reported the inertial dampeners were temporarily offline. Jackson and the Caitian OPS officer were busily re-routing power from non-essential areas to force field around areas about to experience hull breaches. Steve Matrix was busily absorbing incoming reports on the status of his ship. He wanted to know if they were inflicting damage on the opposition. (Reply: Tactical and Security) Tom scanned the Vengeance and notice a few weak life signs. He reported his notes to the skipper. "Sir, I see weak life signs on the vengeance. I suggest a small party see if we can get them some help." (Reply: Matrix, others) As Tom awaited an answer, Lt. Harmann radioed in that he was about to launch in the Valkyrie. "Valkyrie, the launch is a GO. See if you can take some of the heat off of us ok?" Jackson ordered. (Reply: Hartmann, Gibson or Brown) Tom tapped his com badge and had Sick Bay get ready for more casualties. "Sick Bay, this is Cmdr Jackson. Be ready for more incoming casualties" (Reply: Sick Bay) (Posted : Bill) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Main Shuttle Bay - Lieutenant Gibson- 1513) Gibson hoped Hartmann could acclimate quickly to the unfamiliar technology otherwise it would be a short trip for Alex. He watched *his* ship move without his input and he felt like a father watching his daughter leave for prom. Trepidation filled his thoughts as the craft maneuvered flawlessly around the shuttle bay poised for open space. =/\= You weren't kidding, Lieutenant, =/\= he directed at Gibson. =/\= This neurolink is a hell of a trip. =/\= "Just relax and don't force the neurolink. It will adjust to your mental inputs quickly...just let it work for you." replied Gibson. Then she morphed out of the shuttle bay in an instant her signature purplish impulse hue leaving a trail of ionized vapor. "Good luck Lieutenant." he replied, but he doubt Hartmann would hear him in all his excitement. (Reply Hartmann, any - IYW) (Posted by Steve) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 8, Theater - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 2100) On a ship as large as a Galaxy class it was easy to overlook certain areas. Someone could work on the ship for years and still not visit every part, especially if it was a part their duties never required them to visit. And, apparently, even if it was. When Alex noticed a theater listed on deck 8 of Soval's deck plans, not at all far from the security office, his curiosity took over. In a calm before the storm moment with a lull in mission preparation, Alex made his way down the hall to the theater door. The lighting inside was dimmed as if in preparation for a performance. When his eyes adjusted he could see the room was about the size of Ten Forward, with a stage set against the far wall and ranks of seats in between. The Deutsches Theater it wasn't, but there was a pleasant coziness that gave the place a certain intimacy. He strolled the main aisle toward the stage, guided by the path of tiny lights set into the floor between the seats. The stage was only slightly raised from the floor and two wide steps took him to the top. He turned to look out over the seats and was surprised to find how much the bright stage spotlights obscured the vision from the stage. As he stood there he imagined how the place would look with a full crowd. At the same time, he couldn't help picturing himself holding a guitar, surrounded by a band and playing a set for the adoring fans. He smiled dreamily and allowed the illusion to continue for a short while before dismissing it with a shake of his head. Unfortunately the way he played right now was more suited for an interrogation room than a concert hall. If he had any chance of being cheered by a crowd it would have to be a programmed audience in a holodeck, and even then he figured the odds of a good response were only 50/50. He stepped off the stage and, no longer blinded by the stage lights, noticed someone sitting in the third row. He cleared his throat to hide his embarrassment. "Hey, didn't see you there," he grinned. "So, are you waiting for someone to put on a show, or is this just what you do instead of sleeping these days?" (Reply Signos) (posted by Tony) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 8, Theater - 3O Lieutenant(sg) Jessica Signos - 2103) Jessica was wondering the large hall it vast expase the silence it offered. It was Jessica's personal escape. The theater was rarly used and for the most part empty which made it perfect to escape the noise and riggers of duty that filled the halls of the ship. It was common for Jessica to sneak in approach the stage and sing. Here were her voice could fill the space she could he free from the chains that bound her. Escape the blood that covered her hands. She was about to make her own way to the stage, while it was no secret that Jessica loved to dance. Lily loved to sing. It was an agreement that Jessica would allow Lily to realize her dreams and continue to sing as long as Lily promised to be more of an asset than a liability. But then the doors to the theater slid open, and Jessica took to the shadows. She watched as Alex entered the room. 'Did he know I was in here.' The thought crossed her mind. But she quickly dismissed it as she watched him walk down main walk way. Alex did not seem like he was looking for anyone or he might of noticed the small form making her way though the shadows. It seemed he was there for the exact same thing she was to get away from the stress of the mission. Collecting himself before going back to the daily grind. Jessica watched him as Alex stepped to the stage with his back toward her. She was making her way though the third row of seats when Alex abruptly turned on stage. Jessica slipped into a chair in hope of appearing small. But it was to no avail. He looked at her cleared his throat then spoke. "Hey, didn't see you there," He grinned. "So, are you waiting for someone to put on a show, or is this just what you do instead of sleeping these days?" Being found out, she approached the stage and Alex. "Little of both. Its quite here, no one bothers me here, gives me a moment to think." She nodded. (Reply Hartmann) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ========== Mission: Sunrise Day: 5 Stardate: 2415.10.05 (USS Soval - Deck 8, Theater - aCTO Lieutenant(jg) Alexander Hartmann - 2106) "Hey, didn't see you there," Alex grinned upon discovering Jessica sitting quietly in the dim theater lighting. "So, are you waiting for someone to put on a show, or is this just what you do instead of sleeping these days?" Jessica rose from her seat and approached Alex. Watching her shimmy her way through the third row, Alex felt like a performer asking for a volunteer from the audience. His smile widened as his would-be lovely assistant reached the stage. "Little of both. Its quite here, no one bothers me here, gives me a moment to think." She nodded. Now that he thought about it, Alex decided it was very quiet. The room was designed to project sound from the stage, but also to block sound coming from outside. "I can see that," he agreed. "And it's right down the hall. Very convenient. I might stop in here myself now and then." He faced Jessica again. "If you don't mind a little company, that is." (Reply Signos) Alex clasped his hands behind his back and surveyed the room. "So, uh, what were you thinking about, if I might ask? More planning for the raid?" (Reply Signos) (posted by Tony) ==========