Compilers Notes: Geneva Compile 9 – Street Date April 30, 2005. THANK YOU to everyone who has read this section and made steps to fix things before they get to me. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. Fixed timestamp errors… some REAL problems here. Please be careful when you post. I spent a lot of time with this, this week. Fixed spelling errors… WOW! These really went up this week. Please remember to put your posts through a spell checker before you send. It saves me anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes in compile if you spell check it before I get it. Fixed formatting errors… You really don’t need to indent paragraphs… really. Line spacing will do. Fixed symbol errors… Please remember, when a computer speaks its dialogue goes in [ ]. 32 pages of compile in total with 26 posts in total. Total compile time: 1 hrs 20 minutes. Your compile wombat. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: New Beginnings, Day 8 Stardate 2406.12.31 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mission: Go Forth, Shadowy Future, Day 1 Stardate 2407.01.01 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Summary of posts: Stardate: 2406.12.31 (Starbase Geneva, Ballroom, Ensign McLaren, 2019) Stardate: 2407.01.01 (Starbase Geneva, Deck 34 Engineering, Ensign McLaren, 0830) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, Ensign McLaren, 0853) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, CO Arianna, 0930) (Starbase Geneva- Observation Lounge- CMO -Admiral Gr'iann- 0948) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-2O/SC/TAC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely - 0955) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-Admiral Gr'iann- 0956) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-0957) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-CSO, Ensign {SG}Doctor Engtamn-Jensi - 0958) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 0959) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie- 1000) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1001) (Starbase Geneva-Medical Center-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-1004) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, 2O/TAC/SC Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1011) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1012) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, ATAC: Ensign Dorrin Klars ,1013) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, CSO Ensign{SG} Doctor Engtamn-Jensi, 1014) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1015) (Starbase Geneva, Library, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1016) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1017) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1018) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge – ATAC - Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1019) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1021) (The Mind of Ensign Rogers, Outside Airlock, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1023) (Starbase Geneva, Library, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1025) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1026) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1027) (Starbase Geneva - Library - ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1030) (Starbase Geneva, Library, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1031) (Starbase Geneva, Main Operations, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1032) (Starbase Geneva-Medical Center-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-1032) (Starbase Geneva, Library, ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars, 1033) (Starbase Geneva, Main Operations, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1106) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 33, Engineering, Ensign McLaren, 1108) (Starbase Geneva, Main Operations, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1111) Mission: New Beginnings, Day 8 Stardate: 2406.12.30 (Starbase Geneva, Ballroom, Ensign McLaren, 2019) Matthew sat alone at a table nursing an empty drink. He couldn't work out why he had missed the boat so much in this party. He usually fitted in really well. He was ready to leave when someone tapped him on the shoulder. He looked up to see councillor Marta who asked him to dance. Matthew's stood up quickly smiling. "Love to, although I warn you I’m not overly coordinated," he said grinning. They moved out onto the dance floor and proceeded to dance. Matthew had never been a big dancer. He was usually the one providing the music for other people to dance to, but this dance was different. The councillor was a good dancer and Matthew found it easy to go with her movements. However the dance ended quickly and the councillor moved away after Matthew thanked her. Matthew headed towards the exit. He was tired and had an early start tomorrow and he hadn’t exactly been having early nights these last couple of nights. However, he left the ballroom in a lot higher spirits then he was in before the dance. (Posted by Matthew McLaren) Mission: Go Forth, Shadowy Future, Day 1 Stardate: 2407.01.01 (Starbase Geneva, Deck 34 Engineering, Ensign McLaren, 0830) Matthew had his hands entwined in massive lengths of optical cabling inside a console when the computer beeped. [Diagnostic complete, main sensors are functioning within acceptable limits.] It reported. "First bit of good news I’ve heard all day." Matthew grumbled as sparks flew from the ends of some cables as he connected them. He crawled out from under the console and stood up brushing himself off. "Computer, run a level 5 diagnostic on the secondary power relays on this deck." Matthew commanded. [Diagnostic in progress.] The computer replied. "Matthew sunk into a chair rubbing his eyes, they were aching and he was having trouble focusing. He stood and walked to a replicator. "Coffee, black, double strong." He said. He was in the process of carrying the coffee back over to his seat when he glanced out the window into empty space which suddenly changed and there was a planet right next to the station. ~either my vision is getting worse or something strange is happening out there~. Then the station went to red alert. Then a call came in from ops asking if the sensors were functioning. "Yes sir, I just finished running a diagnostic on them, it all checks out." He sat down to a console sipping his coffee, he was really finding it hard to concentrate. He ran a quick scan of the planet and shrugged. Then another call came over the com stating that a staff meeting was in 20 minutes. Matthew stood draining the cup of coffee quickly. (Posted by Matthew McLaren) (Starbase Geneva, Briefing Room, Ensign McLaren, 0853) Matthew stepped into the room. Only a few of the staff were in there and they were in the middle of a conversation. He nodded to them and then sat down at the table. After a while all of the senior staff were in the room and the meeting began. Throughout the meeting Matthew noticed that a few of the people seemed quite tense, but he didn't know why. He sat out of the conversation for a while because he hadn't had time to gather any information before the meeting and the topics seemed to be mostly focusing on the science and medical departments. However when diagnostics were asked to be run on the weapons systems he nodded and said, "I’ll get right on it." The meeting continued until the doctor suggested the use of microprobes and suggested that engineering would need to help out. Matthew looked up. "I could have the replicator programmed with the exact specification and we could make as many as we need. I'll help out as much as possible." Then lieutenant Casely recapped on everyone’s tasks. ~I’ve got my work cut out for me.~ Matthew thought. "Alright, Ladies and Gentlemen, please break out with your duties as detailed by Lt. Casely. Make sure that we're in constant communication peoples so that we can share what all's going on. Let's get those probes modified, and gather more information, work on cracking the language code and also figuring out whose on that planet and where they came from." the captain said, "Also, something to consider, Ensigns; Rogers, Marta and Klars, that if there was a visit to pre-warp earth, it may manifest itself in the form of myth. We may be looking at something contained as a mythic or unexplained occurrence in some culture in ancient Terran history. Be on the lookout for that as well." "I know we are short staffed in some areas, and so, if you require assistance, we will try to allocate more resources, however, we will have to make due with what we have. Lt. Casely, I want to be sure, however, that while we are on this fact-finding mission, that we observe absolutely everything happening on the planet. If something moves towards its upper stratosphere, I want to know about it!" "There's also that transmission that's we've observed. The language cracking team will be forwarded a copy of that." Arianna said as she pressed some buttons on her console. "Alright, everyone, let's get to work. Liaise with Lt. Casely or myself as well as other teams. Let's figure this puzzle out. Any questions?" "Dismissed." Matthew stood and walked over to a man in an engineering uniform. Matthew introduced himself. "Hi, I’m Ensign Matthew McLaren, but you can call me Matt or whatever. I don’t believe we've met." (Reply de Charin) "Are you working in engineering?" (De Charin) "Great, we need all the help we can get down there. We should work together to replicate the microprobes." (Posted by Matthew McLaren) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, CO Arianna, 0930) The staff meeting continued. "Captain, I believe we need more information on the planet and the people. I'd like permission to take the Nautilus out and at least closer to the planet. The Nautilus is a better choice than the Mithrandir as it isn't heavily armed and has a lot of scientific equipment, in a scan it will at least confirm that we're on a scientific information gathering mission. I'll of course need scientists and medical staff... at least one counsellor would be good too. As we seem to have a plethora of these individuals on the station, we shouldn't have a problem, " Casely responded. Lise nodded, there were merits to that line of thinking. However, she wasn't precisely sure that she wanted to engage in a direct contact situation so quickly. "I also want to caution against automatically assuming that they're hostile. I know that as Tactical Chief its my job to keep the station ready for possibly attack and I'm not advocating shirking those duties in the least, I want us to be ready just in case, however I don't think it will help our case for first contact with them if we suddenly power up all our weapons. I would like our engineers to run diagnostics on weapons systems to make sure that they're functioning properly thought. With the station's recent growing pains we may need them at some point in a pinch. I believe it is just as possible by their tone that the pair of individuals were warning us about a danger to us or asking help from us as it is that they were threatening us." Lise smiled, a security chief at heart, she could tell. And still, able to step outside of that role when necessary. She was impressed. These were all things that needed to be done, yes. But she was, glad that her crew, and her FO were able to come up with them on their own. As it was their first mission together, it was time for her to gauge her crew and their abilities, she had a good feeling about this though, even if... she looked out the window to see the mysterious orb ... the orb still remained. "Finally, Sir... we need someone to work on cracking that 'language' such as it is. If we've ascertained its an Earth Language, my ATAC recognised some words from ancient history he's studied. Perhaps research is the key into this one?" Casely continued. At that point, Ensign Klars interjected: "Well, from what I have researched prior to coming here, the terms Surgeon General, Houdini and Indie's temple are all pre-warp. Extremely so, which reveals two things. First they had to have had contact with earth pre-warp, second because the language is so erratic, they haven't come back for a long time. Which raises the questions, why isn't there visit documented? Why come back now? I am afraid that these questions can only be answered by them with contact. Which means we are going to have to send down someone. Considering I have studied ancient history, and that I have an idea of how to break the ice by doing something I don't think anyone else would volunteer for, I volunteer." Lise was about to respond saying that at this point there wasn't anything to really volunteer for because until they'd discovered more information, they wouldn't be making contact, but suddenly, she found herself in a room full of eager volunteers. Counsellor Rogers spoke up, "I volunteer too, sir. The planet just reappeared. They might be dazed and confused and if we show up and start asking questions, they may become hostile. If myself or Ensign Marta were to go along we could monitor the beings and if they became unstable, maybe we could warn the mission leader. Not that Ensign Klars or anyone else couldn't pick up the hints, but a Counsellor might pick it up sooner." Rogers stated succinctly. Lise watched Casely interject skillfully. "Gentlemen, your ideas are excellent and I appreciate them, as I'm sure the Captain does, but please don't let your excitement get the best of you yet. Taking the science vessel to gather more data and visiting is just one possibility. In the end, the Captain reserves judgement. Perhaps we need other ideas and plans besides my initial one as well. Lets try to give the Captain a variety of options so she can choose or combine from many ideas," Lise nodded as she listened to what else he had to say. Casely continued: "Perhaps the possibility exists, if we crack their language, to invite them here rather than us going immediately there. In that way, there would be no concern on their part that we are hostile towards them. We do have a language barrier to deal with after all," The counsellor was quick to protest: "But, Lt. Casely, if they come here, wouldn't it be a bigger security risk. I mean sending an away team to their planet would be a big risk, too, but from a viewpoint, an away team of lets say, um, 8 people is a smaller loss than the entire station. Not to sound morbid....And if they threaten us while we have one of the ships in orbit we can do an emergency beam out, but if they are here and start attacking, we can't beam out to anywhere." "Quite frankly, from a tactical point of view," Casely explained, "its much easier to shepherd a small delegation from off station while they visited us on a small, enclosed station then it is to look out for the safety of a small group on an entire planet. We're safer with them on the station and it is a gesture of goodwill. In addition, its safer for the people visiting us as we are enclosed, and we have an automatic tracking system on the station, However, I have to explore all options. That is my job as acting First Officer, which is why both ideas have been brought up." Casely responded to Rogers' query. At that moment, the still-rather-ill-looking acting CSO spoke: "I would say, that their warp technology is somewhat lower than ours. They appear to be approximately two decades behind us according to scans, however I would need to actually see one of their reactors to know for sure. While they could be a serious threat, I do not think they could easily penetrate our shield defences unless they have a beam weapon technology we are not aware of." ~Good to know~ Lise added it to the table of data she was rapidly accumulating in her head. IT seemed like these people weren't a threat. Well, a threat, in the way that Starfleet usually gauged threats. Although, there was still something unsettling about them. Something that she couldn't quite put her fingers on. Engtamn-Jensi continued: "I would have to confer with my colleague before making such claims. We need more information including advanced sensor scans, may I suggest a probe? What is your area of expertise good woman?" There was an interchange between the scientists as the discussed scientific things and their area of expertise. It was brief and brought to an end by an interjection from Lt. Cmdr Mackenzie. "Captain, if we do go along with the commander's idea and take the Nautilus, I'd like to volunteer for the away mission. Seeing as how a science crew will be needed, I think I might benefit the most in this area." ~So many volunteers!~ Arianna though, these people understood the meaning of duty and honour. Yes, an honourable crew. What else could a captain ask for. "I understand Dr. But, for now, let's hold that offer...." Casely continued, rapidly sorting everything into its proper places: "Doctor Mackenzie, if we do end up using that idea, I agree that we will need medical and science staff for it. This will hopefully be a true scientific mission and really nothing else. I still am concerned about how they would view us suddenly orbiting their planet though right after contact," The Lieutenant Continued: "What I do believe would be useful is for the medical staff to try and do something with the display tape. I know you can only get so much from bone structure and the like, that you really need samples and direct scans, but still... any information about either species that can be gleaned from your expert knowledge of biology will at least give us an idea of what we're dealing with," "I'll get right on it sir," Mackenzie stated. "De'Charin, McLaren, Ghakin, do you have any further insight on the technological state of the civilization on that planet? Have you had time to analyse any of the scans? We have Doctor Engtamn-Jensi's preliminary report, but can you add anything?" Casely enquired from the Engineering department. (Reply De'Charin, McLaren, Ghakin) "Marta, Rogers, how are you two with languages? You're our experts on behaviour as it were. Can you get an idea as to whether it was a warning, a plea for help, a concern for our safety or something else? Is there any way that you can coordinate with Ensign Klars, who first noticed the induction of old Earth words and phrases, to try and crack that language?" Casely questioned. "Lt. what about the possibility it isn't their language? What if somehow they got in touch with something or someone who spoke English ages past, recognized us to be users of that language and rambled out a few remembered phrases. Could it be that instead of them having a disoriented English language, they are just saying the little they know in an effort to communicate? What if it isn't their language at all, just a translation of what those phrases would sound like in their language?" Ensign Klars asked. That, Ensign, is a distinct possibility. I suppose you've just added to your workload that," Casely spoke while winking, "However, I still believe they were attaching some meaning to them. More than just a few random things would have received." At that point, Admiral Gr'iann interjected, "That's verry interresting idea, Ensign. But it seems to mme that their mmeaning is verry dirrected to the worrds they used. Perrhaps it is just that phrases that are similar, but still, those rreferrances are fammiliar." The Caitian shook his head. "I just wish this old brrain of mmine could remmemmberr." Casely nodded, "I agree, the possibility does exist, but we must explore several different possibilities. That means almost making the attempt on the language, if it is one." "I guess Captain, what I'm saying is that before we have more assembled concrete information it might be unwise for us to pursue any direct course of action. However, the longer we wait to make a decision the more at risk we could be placing ourselves as well. Finally, quite frankly, I'm really curious about that planet. I'm sure everyone else here feels the same drive I do to explore and find out what is going on," The door chime rang: "Sir, we're getting signals from the planet. They're weak, but there is a distinct pattern. We've been working on it for sometime now, but cannot seem to figure it out. Here are the scans and full reports from the people who worked on it," she stated formally. Arianna accepted the PADD from the Ensign. "Thank you." She said, as she looked at the scans. This was something new to consider.... Zadora nodded, and then swallowed. "I hate to be the bearer of potentially bad news, but we received a communication from somewhere else as well. It seems there are two members from the Cardassian Detapa Council on their way here. I tried to tell them that it wasn't a good time, but they were most insistent. Apparently they are trying to decide on which "Starfleet" to support. They'll be here within a week," she said, looking more than a bit nervous about the response the captain would give. "Understood Ensign. Thank you." Arianna said, things were going to start to get complicated and fast. With that, Zadora excused herself and went back to operations. "Ummm... Sir?" said Engtamn softly. "Yes Doctor Engtamn-Jensi? Do you have something to add?" The Lieutenant inquired. Engtamn-Jensi spoke: "You probably can get a lot of preliminary information with your currently planning, and it does sound like a good start, but I believe we can get more information without endangering anyone... at least not yet," Casely responded: "Continue Doctor, we're listening," said Paul with obvious interest. "Well Sir," Engtamn-Jensi articulated slowly, "Perhaps microprobes are the answer. It is possible to create probes that are roughly the size of a fingernail. They have to be very specific in what they do, as obviously their data retrieval system is not able to record a great deal of data. With the help of the medical staff we could reprogramme a microprobe to pick up biological data and send it back here. From that we might be able to get some scans. It won't replace the work a doctor could do on a real patient or subject, but it might give us a better idea of who or what we're dealing with. Is this possible?" "A good question Doctor," Casely responded, "Is it possible to help Doctor Engtamn-Jensi to modify those microprobes?" "Hmmmmmm," the Admiral purred, thinking. "The collecting of the data should be fairrly simmple, but it's the trransmmitting of the inforrmmation that mmay prrove morre difficult. I'd say, once we get the micrrobes to behave the rright way, it will become an engineerring prroblem. But yes, it is possible." "Perhaps sir, it is possible to send another set of microprobes down to collect language or sound data. I would also suggest we monitor the planet for open transmissions of any sort as it will provide more sample data for the counsellors and your ATAC?" said Engtamn-Jensi in a quasi confident voice. "That mmight be a little mmore difficult," The Admiral stated. "Mmicrobes, by naturre, would deal with the biological data much easier, than they would, the physical nature of sound. I'd be mmorre dubious of the success of that." Casely cleared his throat and tried to approach the situation delicately, "Umm... actually sir, its not Microbes, its microprobes. A microprobe is nano-technology. It does the same basic things that a probe does, but is very small. It also has to be specifically tailored to a particular job. That's why we'd have to send out several specifically programmed ones." "I apologize. Somme timmes the langauge escapes mmy earrs. It's a Caitian thing." "Yes, some aspects of the language can be confusing. I can see how that can happen, Sir," Casely as well as various other members of the staff couldn't help but smile.. "But in that case, it would be easy to mmake the adjustmments that Doctor Engtamn is looking forr." The atmosphere in the room was rather odd. Many people had a very comical reaction to the Admiral's honest mistake. But, there was, emanating from one area, possibly Counsellor Rogers, a sort of dark emotion that was directed towards the admiral. Yes, it was definitely a strong dislike.. or worse? Arianna glared over at Rogers' seat to find his gaze transfixed on the Admiral. ~This is quite odd...~ Arianna thought as she analysed the feelings she was receiving from the Counsellor. ~I will have to monitor this and check into it if needs be.~ But the meeting continued: Most of the decisions now had been made. It was just up to the Captain to either confirm them or come up with some decisions of her own. Casely looked at Marta, Klars and Rogers and waited for their answer. (Reply Marta, Klars and Rogers) "So, if I'm understanding this correctly, the first order of business in information gathering will be to modify and send out those microprobes, glean information and then set about your various tasks with the medical staff trying to determine and analyse species and the counsellors and Klars working on language." Engtamn looked down slightly and then spoke again, "And for me to work on their technology level using the microprobes that I fashion to analyse technology and energy flow, but I'll need the help of some engineers." (Reply De'Charin, McLaren) Casely seemed to ponder things, and Lise noticed that he was looking at her. He went on to continue the meeting: "Does anyone have any questions or concerns about the doctor's idea? If there is anything that could be a problem its very important that you speak up as everyone's input matters," "So, to recap." Casely began: "Medical staff will work on the information we already have about the two beings who contacted us and work on modifying a microprobe to scan for biological readings on the planet. Counselling and Ensign Klars will work on the language and modifying a microprobe to get more information on that. Doctor Engtamn-Jensi and the rest of the science staff will modify a microprobe to scan for technology and energy levels. Engineering will help with the construction and modification of the probes. Once we acquire more concrete information on these people and their planet, then we can decide on the feasibility of an away mission. Incidentally, I'll need some people to look into the scans we're taking of the planet and hopefully figure out where the heck it came from. Volunteers?" "Now, all that we require is your word Captain. Do you wish us to do anything else, or any problems with what we'll be working on? It is your show after all," Casely smiled. Lise nodded. "It sounds like you've all come to quite excellent conclusions. Let's dig up all the research we can , and we'll further assess the situation." "That sounds like a job forr the science department," Gr'iann said. "Since the good doctorr and I arre alrready worrking togetherr, and we'll have to wait forr the prrobes, perrhaps he and I can have a look at that data? Doctorr?" At this, statement, Arianna was again finding strange emotions in the room. Those of terror emanating from the hung-over scientist. He was -- petrified. Perhaps this was a way that his species dealt with large quantities of alcohol? But wait, these sentiments were directed towards... Admiral Gr'iann. ~What is it with the Admiral? Everyone has these bizarre feelings towards him.~ She wondered. The Admiral himself, seemed composed and normal, just like the day she'd had lunch with him. "Ummm... yes... I... uhhh... suppose so... Sir," Engtamn-Jensi responded ever so quietly and hesitantly. Lise couldn't help but notice that he was petrified. However, she couldn't explore those issues at the moment, they would have to wait. The floating orb of a planet reminded her that they needed to get back to work as quickly as possible, and with that delegation heading towards Geneva. It was likely to be an unforgettable convention. Not in the most positive sense of the word either. Arianna looked around the room, she'd been impressed with the logic and processes they were using to derive their course of action. She'd been nervous with so many green senior officers, but it looked as if things were going to be alright. At least, that was her hope. One could never let one's guard down and become complacent, she reminded herself. "Alright, Ladies and Gentlemen, please break out with your duties as detailed by Lt. Casely. Make sure that we're in constant communication peoples so that we can share what all's going on. Let's get those probes modified, and gather more information, work on cracking the language code and also figuring out whose on that planet and where they came from." Arianna continued, "Also, something to consider, Ensigns; Rogers, Marta and Klars, that if there was a visit to pre-warp earth, it may manifest itself in the form of myth. We may be looking at something contained as a mythic or unexplained occurrence in some culture in ancient Terran history. Be on the lookout for that as well." "I know we are short staffed in some areas, and so, if you require assistance, we will try to allocate more resources, however, we will have to make due with what we have. Lt. Casely, I want to be sure, however, that while we are on this fact-finding mission, that we observe absolutely everything happening on the planet. If something moves towards its upper stratosphere, I want to know about it!" "There's also that transmission that's we've observed. The language cracking team will be forwarded a copy of that." Arianna said as she pressed some buttons on her console. "Alright, everyone, let's get to work. Liaise with Lt. Casely or myself as well as other teams. Let's figure this puzzle out. Any questions?" (Reply those with questions) "Dismissed." (Posted by Katherine Mazurok) (Starbase Geneva- Observation Lounge- CMO -Admiral Gr'iann- 0948) Gr'iann sat quietly, trying to digest what he had heard. First, the sudden appearance of a planet that had absolutely no previous history. To make it even more interesting, the planet appeared to be inhabited. But inhabited by whom, or perhaps more appropriately, by what? The recorded message was confusing, and yet, in a way it seemed very familiar. The way that the aliens spoke. The use of those descriptors, and references. It reminded him of something. And the fact that they were using a Federation Standard language. The odds were ... well greater that one old Caitian could calculate in his head. Of course, having Kaitlyn Mackenzie in such close proximity was making it a little hard for him to concentrate. He could smell her. Then Paul Casely's suggestion to take a ship to the planet, even for survey. There was still too much unknown for that course of action. He was glad to see that nobody was rushing into the assumption that they were violent. There was no evidence to support that. However, he was more surprised to see the idea of breaking the language barrier get such a resounding response. It was an intriguing language base, but usually not a task that you get a lot of volunteers for. Then Kaitlyn spoke out. She wanted to go on the away team. Gr'iann was immediately alert. He moved to start to protest. He did not want to risk her. But Casely spoke, as if he'd already accepted her proposal, but he knew that an away team had not been agreed upon. He would have to speak with Casely, later. Gr'iann relaxed as she accepted the assignment to find out as much about them from their physical appearance. Then it was Engtamn-Jensi, the CSO. "I would say," said Engtamn softly, "that their warp technology is somewhat lower than ours. They appear to be approximately two decades behind us according to scans, however I would need to actually see one of their reactors to know for sure. While they could be a serious threat, I do not think they could easily penetrate our shield defenses unless they have a beam weapon technology we are not aware of." Gr'iann had to step in. "Exactly how can you mmake that conclusion, doctorr. I have seen no evidence of any advanced technology, except forr this mmessage. I have seen no sign of any space farring technology. As farras I can see, they mmay be planet bound. And as crazy as it sounds, the entirre planet mmay be their mmode of trransporrtation." Engtamn looked away and stated softly, "I would have to confer with my colleague before making such claims. We need more information including advanced sensor scans, may I suggest a probe?" Engtamn looked towards Ensign Ghakin, "What is your area of expertise good woman?" (reply Ghakin) Then it was Dorin Klars, the ATAC, who apparently had some hidden talents. And interesting ideas. "What about the possibility it isn't their language? What if somehow they got in touch with something or someone who spoke English ages past, recognized us to be users of that language and rambled out a few remembered phrases. Could it be that instead of them having a distorted English language, they are just saying the little they know in an effort to communicate? What if it isn't their language at all, just a translation of what those phrases would sound like in their language?" Gr'iann nodded. "That's verry interresting idea, Ensign. But it seems to mme that their mmeaning is verry dirrected to the worrds they used. Perrhaps it is just that phrases that are similar, but still, those rreferrances are fammiliar." The Caitian shook his head. "I just wish this old brrain of mmine could remmemmberr." But it was Engtamn-Jensi who had the best idea that he'd heard. "Perhaps microprobes are the answer. It is possible to create probes that are roughly the size of a fingernail. They have to be very specific in what they do, as obviously their data retrieval system is not able to record a great deal of data. With the help of the medical staff we could reprogramme a microprobe to pick up biological data and send it back here. From that we might be able to get some scans. It won't replace the work a doctor could do on a real patient or subject, but it might give us a better idea of who or what we're dealing with. Is this possible?" "A good question Doctor," said looking over at Gr'iann, "Is it possible to help Doctor Engtamn-Jensi to modify those microprobes?" "Hmmmmmm," Gr'iann purred, thinking. "The collecting of the data should be fairrly simmple, but it's the trransmmitting of the inforrmmation that mmay prrove morre difficult. I'd say, once we get the micrrobes to behave the rright way, it will become an engineerring prroblem. But yes, it is possible." "Perhaps sir, it is possible to send another set of microprobes down to collect language or sound data. I would also suggest we monitor the planet for open transmissions of any sort as it will provide more sample data for the counsellors and your ATAC. "That mmight be a little mmore difficult," Gr'iann announced. "Mmicrobes, by naturre, would deal with the biological data much easier, than they would, the physical nature of sound. I'd be mmorre dubious of the success of that." (posted by Al Muir) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-2O/SC/TAC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely - 0955) Paul listened to the discourse that had started due to the various ideas being examined. He also noticed the strange way that Admiral Gr'iann looked at Doctor Mackenzie from time to time, especially when the away mission was discussed. After Engtamn-Jensi's idea, Gr'iann came out some interesting ideas, but a rather strange comment as well. "That mmight be a little mmore difficult," Gr'iann announced. "Mmicrobes, by naturre, would deal with the biological data much easier, than they would, the physical nature of sound. I'd be mmorre dubious of the success of that." Paul cleared his throat, "Umm... actually sir, its not Microbes, its microprobes. A microprobe is nano-technology. It does the same basic things that a probe does, but is very small. It also has to be specifically tailored to a particular job. That's why we'd have to send out several specifically programmed ones." (Reply Gr'iann) "Yes, some aspects of the language can be confusing. I can see how that can happen, Sir," stated Paul with a smile. Most of the decisions now had been made. It was just up to the Captain to either confirm them or come up with some decisions of her own. "So, to recap. Medical staff will work on the information we already have about the two beings who contacted us and work on modifying a microprobe to scan for biological readings on the planet. Counselling and Ensign Klars will work on the language and modifying a microprobe to get more information on that. Doctor Engtamn-Jensi and the rest of the science staff will modify a microprobe to scan for technology and energy levels. Engineering will help with the construction and modification of the probes. Once we acquire more concrete information on these people and their planet, then we can decide on the feasibility of an away mission. Incidentally, I'll need some people to look into the scans we're taking of the planet and hopefully figure out where the heck it came from. Volunteers?" said Paul. (Reply anyone wishing to volunteer or anyone with questions about their tasks) "Now, all that we require is your word Captain. Do you wish us to do anything else, or any problems with what we'll be working on? It is your show after all," said Paul with a smile. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-Admiral Gr'iann- 0956) When Casely had explained the error in the Admiral's interpretation of what he'd heard he was a little embarrassed. "I apologize. Somme timmes the langauge escapes mmy earrs. It's a Caitian thing." "Yes, some aspects of the language can be confusing. I can see how that can happen, Sir," stated Paul with a smile. "But in that case, it would be easy to mmake the adjustmments that Doctor Engtamn is looking forr." Casely did a recap of the tasks on hand, but he had one more task. "I'll need some people to look into the scans we're taking of the planet and hopefully figure out where the heck it came from. Volunteers?" "That sounds like a job forr the science deparrtmment," Gr'iann said. "Since the good doctorr and I arre alrready worrking togetherr, and we'll have to wait forr the prrobes, perrhaps he and I can have a look at that data? Doctorr?" (posted by Al Muir) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-0957) After Kaitlyn had volunteered to go on the away mission, she for some reason noticed the strange way Gr'iann looked at her, but didn't say anything. ~Maybe he's just upset about something...~ Easily dismissing the look, she tuned back into the conversation. "So, to recap. Medical staff will work on the information we already have about the two beings who contacted us and work on modifying a microprobe to scan for biological readings on the planet. Counselling and Ensign Klars will work on the language and modifying a microprobe to get more information on that. Doctor Engtamn-Jensi and the rest of the science staff will modify a microprobe to scan for technology and energy levels. Engineering will help with the construction and modification of the probes. Once we acquire more concrete information on these people and their planet, then we can decide on the feasibility of an away mission. Incidentally, I'll need some people to look into the scans we're taking of the planet and hopefully figure out where the heck it came from. Volunteers?" said Paul. Kaitlyn wasn't so sure she'd be good with geological scans. Medical scans...give her a tricorder and she could tell you a million things about the readings, but planet scans.....she knew enough to know the basics but not enough to figure out this complex problem. She watched as a couple of people volunteered, and then the Lt. took head of the meeting once more. "Now, all that we require is your word Captain. Do you wish us to do anything else, or any problems with what we'll be working on? It is your show after all," said Paul. Sitting back, Kaitlyn awaited for the captain to speak as well. She couldn't wait to get out of that room. Kaitlyn felt strange for some reason, like she was being watched. No matter how hard she tried to shake the feeling, it was there. Once more, she concentrated on the Captain's words as she made the final decision. (Posted by: Stacey) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-CSO, Ensign {SG}Doctor Engtamn-Jensi - 0958) Engtamn listened to the station's acting FO give finally assignments. Everything seemed more or less to make sense, at least once the Captain confirmed it. ~Leave it to a medical doctor to mix up microprobes and microbes~ thought Engtamn, but he remained silent. Then Casely called for volunteers... then he heard the cat-man. "That sounds like a job forr the science deparrtmment," Gr'iann said. "Since the good doctorr and I arre alrready worrking togetherr, and we'll have to wait forr the prrobes, perrhaps he and I can have a look at that data? Doctorr?" Engtamn blinked his large brown eyes a couple times... he couldn't believe he was hearing. The big catman was arranging for him to be alone with him. Maybe it was the way he used to be alone with his prey before he ate it... ~No, no... he promised he wouldn't eat me,~ thought Engtamn. Still, Engtamn felt caught. On the one hand, he didn't really trust this... well... predator. On the other, he was a ranking officer. Engtamn swallowed hard and fought to urge to run out of the room and hide somewhere. "Ummm... yes... I... uhhh... suppose so... Sir," said Engtamn even more quietly than usual, his voice almost a whimper belying the fear that he was feeling at the prospect. Engtamn knew he was the best choice for the job and that it made perfect sense for a medical doctor to work on this project, but why couldn't it be one of the human females? He didn't feel particularly threatened by them, unlike the giant ferocious cat creature that reminded him of hyrals from his own native planet. Until his people had relocated the hyral population to a preserve they were all in danger... hydrals ate herd animals... in fact, most predators and catlike animals did. (posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 0959) Brian watched has he was systematically pushed aside from the conversation. It bothered him, but he wouldn't worry about it. He grew up on starships and knew that many Starfleet personnel saw Counsellors has 'not needed' in staff meetings. He remembered a time on his father's ship when a counsellor suggested something completely useless. His father told the counsellor to 'go to your office and read stuff, we'll call you when somebody had a breakdown!' Brian now realized that his short exchange with Casely must have seen like that to the others. Brian then watched Admiral Gri'ann has he talked. Some reason, the Admiral rubbed him the wrong way. Just watching him speak, something told him he should hate him, but Brian couldn't figure it out. He wasn't a racist, nor did he have anything against alien species, but Gr'iann with the slur of the language made Brian angry for some reason. Especially since the mission involved a strange message in old pre-warp English. His accent made Rogers want to grab the Admiral and force him to go threw HoloLessons for 1st Grade Students. His hand made a fist under the table. He became very angry. ~If that, animal ever did anything to me I swear I'd....~ Brian stopped himself. ~What am I doing?~ He was getting upset in a staff meeting at somebody who had no harm to him. ~Good thing there is another counsellor here....~ (Posted by Kevin Schram) (Starbase Geneva-Observation Lounge-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie- 1000) As both the captain and first officer were dismissing them, Kaitlyn got up from her chair and headed out the door to the nearest turbolift. She would have to get to the medical center so she could do her research on the bone structure to identify these people. Also, there were microprobes to be developed. Coming upon the turbolift, Kaitlyn got in and gave it a command. As it took off, she started to think about how she would go about identifying the bone structure. (Posted by Stacey) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1001) "Marta, Rogers, how are you two with languages? You're our experts on behavior as it were. Can you get an idea as to whether it was a warning, a plea for help, a concern for our safety or something else? Is there any way that you can coordinate with Ensign Klars, who first noticed the induction of old Earth words and phrases, to try and crack that language?" queried Paul. Kassia considered what Paul had asked them and waited for the others to respond. Seeing that they had not answered, Kassia decided to at least give her part of it. "Sir, I am and have been trained in linguistics. I believe that we can come up with some answers for you. As to what it actually is saying, I believe that we need to study it a bit before we can answer you. I will say that I think that we need to look into what they said and that could also tell us what time frame of terran history they are using." She then listened to the rest of the meeting and comments from the others. She did not thing that taking a team down to the planet a good idea. The idea of bringing a delegation from the planet up to the station seemed the most prudent of all choices, security wise. She was happy that they had put the away team on hold at present time until more was known of what that planet was all about. Toward the end of the meeting, Kass thought she had seen something on Ensign Rogers face that she wasn’t sure she liked. It seemed that he was a bit angry or something of the sort toward someone in the room. As she watched him, she could have put money on the fact that for some reason he had something against the Admiral. She wondered if it might be something that she should approach the subject or not. Maybe in a passing conversation, she could see if there was any problems that Ensign Rogers was experiencing. At the moment, she decided to put that on hold as the meeting was more important at the time. "Also, something to consider, Ensigns; Rogers, Marta and Klars, that if there was a visit to pre-warp earth, it may manifest itself in the form of myth. We may be looking at something contained as a mythic or unexplained occurrence in some culture in ancient Terran history. Be on the lookout for that as well." Lise continued. Kass just nodded at this inference as she was already thinking the same. Soon afterward, Lise dismissed the meeting and everyone started to head in the directions to do what they had been ordered. (posted by Frank) (Starbase Geneva-Medical Center-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-1004) Sitting in one of the offices in the medical center, she was having a mental block. There were a couple of ways she could do this, but she was deciding upon which was the best. Letting out a big sigh, she tapped a button and the computer came on. With the previous information they had gathered, Kaitlyn used the PADD to input information in the computer. Searching over and over again, she thought there was no way she would be able to identify these people. But then she had a thought. "Computer, access file number 1150 and overlay an image onto the skeletal structure I have provided." She watched as the computer beeped in response to her command and started to lay down the structure piece by piece. When it finished, she raised her eyebrows and stared at the computer. "Unbelievable...." (Posted by: Stacey) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, 2O/TAC/SC Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1011) Upon dismissal and dealing with questions, Paul looked around the room. They were pretty impressive, that was for certain. For a green crew they were handling themselves well, especially considering only Arianna, Gri'ann, Mackenzie and himself really had any experience with emergency protocols. Some of them needed to get a handle on how they responded to being disappointed, but the understanding of how these meetings operated would come over time. While it was important to hear everyone's ideas, Starfleet was a military arm and therefore not really a democracy. "This is, of course, top priority at the moment. Please ensure you keep me apprised of your progress. Lets meet in the Officer's Lounge on deck 8 at 1300 to discuss our findings over lunch. It will be good to talk about these things in a slightly lower stress environment. That gives us just under three hours to try and make some headway. I'll be heading back to operations to work on adjusting the sensors to warn us if anything breaks the atmosphere. Unless the Captain objects, I'm also going to lift general quarters but restrict access to transporters and docking bays. No ships are allowed out without Operations authorization until further notice and no ships are to go near that planet for now. I also believe it may be prudent to restrict communications for now as well. Obviously we can't keep this bottled up, but use coded protocols for technical data and information for now please. We don't know if they're listening in on us as we are on them," stated Paul as he got up and moved towards the door and tapped his comm badge. "Casely to security centre, lift general quarters but put all transport on restricted access. Do the same with communications for the next 12 hours until we know exactly what's going on," said Casely into his comm badge. =^=Yes Sir=^= came the predicted reply. With that, Paul stood and waited for a second or two in case any of the other senior staff needed to talk to him about anything pertaining to their mission. He glanced over at Captain Arianna and grinned weakly as the group began to file out. Paul thought he had performed well, but still felt like he'd been through the wringer. He hoped that the captain had appreciated his attempts. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1012) Brian watched Casely give orders and then he turned and left. He would have to have impressive results to impress his new commanding officers. (Posted by Kevin Schram) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, ATAC: Ensign Dorrin Klars ,1013) Dorrin watched with distaste as the male counsellor left. Obviously he missed the part where the CO and Lt. said that the he and the counsellors would be working together. He would have a nice long talk with him soon, and if he turned out to be an intolerable simpleton who cared only for advancement, well Dorrin did long to play his little pranks again, it made him feel young. He walked over to the female counsellor, whose name he believed was Marta. "Seeing as how your associate has decided to work without us, would you like to get started with me?" (posted by Dan Black) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, CSO Ensign{SG} Doctor Engtamn-Jensi, 1014) Engtamn heard as the station's acting first officer gave final instructions and watched the rest of the senior staff file out. He glanced over at what seemed to be a grinning Caitian Admiral. Engtamn closed his eyes and waited for a second or two. His head still ached and he still felt very tired... but he would deal with it. Dealing with the predator would be more difficult though. Finally, Engtamn stood up and started for the door. He knew he had to get down to his science labs to start work on the microprobes. Engineering wouldn't be able to do anything if he didn't finalise the specifications for them. "Ummm... Admiral," said Engtamn to the Caitian, "I have work to do in my laboratory. You are...ummm... welcome to join me." Engtamn then swallowed hard and waited for a response. (Reply Gri'ann) "Ummm... well... it will be a lot of technical work, mostly power relays and things like that. I know you are a doctor of medicine, but do you know circuitry as well?" asked Engtamn very much hoping that the Admiral did not. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1015) "Seeing as how your associate has decided to work without us, would you like to get started with me?" Ensign Klars said as he walked over to talk to her. She was also a bit concerned that he had left in such a manner without even making contact with her about their task. She knew that something had gotten to Ensign Rogers during the meeting and that maybe it was bothering him. She was definitely going to have a talk to him about it, maybe before they could get their task completed. She suddenly got an idea that maybe his attitude had something to do with Commander Mackenzie. She knew that if it is, it was going to be a delicate situation. "I am sorry about Ensign Rogers' attitude. I know that he has something on his mind or I don't think he would have just left like that." Kass responded, then, tried to figure out why she was making excuses for him; she didn’t know him. "I would like for us to start together. I am Ensign Marta, Kass for short, glad to formally meet you." She said as she extended her hand to him. (Posted by Frank) (Starbase Geneva, Library, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1016) Brian stormed in and sat at one of the desks. "Computer, begin search of all pre-warp information files stored in the database." The computer replied [957,358,334,543 files found matching your criteria.] "Search those files and tell me what an Airbag is?" Brian asked of the computer. [In external combustion engine vehicles used by humans on Earth pre-warp, an airbag was a safety device installed that in the event of an accident, would inflate with air and protect the humans inside.] "Basically a low-tech internal damping field of sorts?" Brian asked. [Correct.]. ~Well, that solves one mystery.~ Brian quickly wrote down on a PADD what airbag meant. Brian then thought back to the message. "Computer, searching our pre-warp files, what is 911?" Brian asked. [There are 3 possible answers.] The computer told him. "Tell me all." Brian said. [911 is a numeric number that is before 912 and after 910. 911 is the square root of 829921. 911 also is a year in the 8th Century. 911 also was an emergency communications channel used on pre-warp Earth in a communications device called a telephone.] Brian wrote this down on his PADD and thought. ~Airbags....something happened, an accident, airbags went off, they called 911? It must be some sort of accident.~ Brian made a note to bring up a possible accident at the lunch meeting. "Computer, searching all pre-warp files, what are...." Brian waited has he looked over the PADD with the transcript of the alien message, "What are, re-runs?" [Two possible explanations. The first is during the United States of America Naval Academy, trainees would have to run a mile distance in under 9 minutes. If they failed to do so, they would have to 're-run' the course.] The computer said. ~Sounds like the Starfleet Academy.~ Brian thought. "OK, the next one?" [In pre-warp Earth, an entertainment device called a television provided programming. Under certain conditions, the controlling television agencies would rebroadcast already broadcast programs. These re-aired shows would be called 're-runs' because it would the second time they were 'run over the air'.] The computer said. Brian thought ~Ok, an emergency device, then an emergency channel, and now....some entertainment device? Must be a Navy thing.~ Brian wrote down on his PADD that rerun was a term for re- running the Naval Academy Trails. "Computer, search, the word Surgeon General." Brian said. [A term for a pre-warp high ranking military officer who was also a medical officer and would make health decisions for the entire nation.] The computer said. ~Well then, it must be a military thing.~ Brian wrote down what Surgeon General meant. Brian then packed up his PADD's. He felt like he was back at the Academy, studying for his 1st Year General History class. He had to write a 900-word essay on the most important event in the history of Mars Colony. Anyway, Brian packed up his PADD's and walked out (Posted by Kevin Schram) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1017) "I would like for us to start together. I am Ensign Marta, Kass for short, glad to formally meet you." Dorrin took the outstretched hand, with a twinkle in his eye. The counselor was a very attractive women, but instantly schooled his mind to business. There would be time for those thoughts after the current business was done. He finished shaking her hand and let it go. "It is a pleasure to meet you as well. I have actually obtained a decent amount of information on the phrases used in the transmission. I thought that we attempt to figure out at least what feeling was being conveyed in each individual phrase. For example, Houdini was actually a pre-warp escape artist. So if they conveyed escaping when they said Houdini, we will know the language fits the historical context at least a little bit. What do you think?" (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1018) "It is a pleasure to meet you as well. I have actually obtained a decent amount of information on the phrases used in the transmission. I thought that we attempt to figure out at least what feeling was being conveyed in each individual phrase. For example, Houdini was actually a pre-warp escape artist. So if they conveyed escaping when they said Houdini, we will know the language fits the historical context at least a little bit. What do you think?" Kass ran the message through her head over and over. There were some things that just did not add up and they would need to figure them out also. Then she turned her attention to the question that Klars asked her. "Well, if I remember right from my studies, this Houdini was even before the rocket propulsion of Earth. He died in earth time 1926 so and the rocket power research did not come into development until after 1939. So, we can speculate that they came into contact well before the pre-warp technology. Now according to history, if I am not wrong, the 911 they mention did not come into effect until the late 1960s. That could conceivably be another visit they made to earth if we are willing to think they visited earth. We could conceivably have a terran or many terrans visiting this planet at some time or times. I am not sure what the von trapp means unless it has something to do with the Von Trapp family of the earth year 1938. We might need to check that. Now Re-runs, I remember that old earth television had a thing that meant old shows were played over and over again. I believe they called them reruns but why would that be used here?" Kass stopped for a moment when a thought hit her, "Oh my god, do you think that they were trying to tell us that the planet appearing as it did now has done so more than once?" She just looked at Klars with that question hanging in the air like a dead weight. (posted by Frank) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge – ATAC - Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1019) "Oh my god, do you think that they were trying to tell us that the planet appearing as it did now has done so more than once?" Dorrin stopped cold when he registered what the counsellor said. ~Is it possible? Was that a warning or a threat, or, or, what!?~ As he always did when confronted with a sticky problem he closed his eyes and started to speak aloud projecting his thoughts. "That is certainly one possibility. However we can not work as if it was the only possibility. Another possibility is that the planet appeared once before, but at a time when every one of those phrases were known. Or it could be neither of these and something else entirely. We have a number of options, one we could try to work with the plan I had outlined to you. Two we could see it the famous, recluse, and of course brilliant Counselor Rogers has a plan. What do you think?" (Posted by Dan Black) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - Counselor Ensign Kassia Marta - 1021) "That is certainly one possibility. However we can not work as if it was the only possibility. Another possibility is that the planet appeared once before, but at a time when every one of those phrases were known. Or it could be neither of these and something else entirely. We have a number of options, one we could try to work with the plan I had outlined to you. Two we could see it the famous, recluse, and of course brilliant Counselor Rogers has a plan. What do you think?" "Yes, I agree, we need to bring in Ensign Rogers to see if he has any ideas." Kass responded "Computer location of Counselor Rogers" She asked the computer [Currently located in Library] responded the computer in its drone language that she really did not like. Tapping her COM badge, "Ensign Marta to Ensign Rogers, Ensign Klars and I are in route to your location to discuss what we have to do and ideas that we came up with. We would like to know your opinion and ideas." (Rogers) "Right, ok we will be there in a short bit, Kass out." She finished up then looked up at Klars. "After you my good sir" (Klars) As Klars turned to lead the way she smiled at him ~something some day maybe~ she thought to herself but followed without saying anything." (posted by frank) (The Mind of Ensign Rogers, Outside Airlock, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1023) The mission had gone incredibly well. After everybody’s research, they contacted the planet and made contact with an small group of aliens. The CO ordered Lt. Casely to take one of the ships to the planet to pick up a party and bring them back. Everybody was excited, we were going to meet these strange aliens. Everybody except most of the Security Staff (who were taking the aliens back to Geneva) were lined up outside the airlock wearing formal uniform dress and standing tall. Arianna was first in line and stood near the airlock first. Brian was about 11th down the line, in between Kaitlyn and Counselor Marta. Suddenly the airlock opened and three aliens walked out. One seemed to be an older one, followed by a female, then a younger male. They walked out, then the crew of the USS Mithrandir followed. The elder alien started walking down the line and shook the hand of every crewmember. Brian smiled. He was very excited about meeting the aliens. Then, the younger alien walked ahead of the other two and held up a small box. Starbase Geneva's crew watched in silence has he chanted something. Suddenly, has a single though crossed Brian's mind, somebody yelled it out. "BOMB! EVERYBODY BACK!" and before anybody could react, the small box exploded. Brian felt the concussive force go threw his body. Brian and everybody around him flew backwards and hit the bulkhead, then they crumbled to the ground. Brian opened his eyes and saw a horrific sight of the younger alien's legs standing alone, nothing attached to them. Brian then looked around and things went from bad to worse, the other two aliens had some sort of rifle and were shooting at the crew. Brian looked back and saw the some of his crewmates were dead or badly wounded. Brian got to his feet and saw that Lt. Casely and some other security crewmen were running towards a emergency locker that held phasers. Brian knew by the time they reached it, half of the crew would be dead. Brian ran towards the older alien, grabbed the rifle, jerked it from him and threw it on the ground, Brian then grabbed the alien by the neck and delivered a strong punch to his face. The elder alien panicked and tried to get away, but Brian increased his grip and delivered another punch to his face. The alien screamed out for help and struggled. Brian smiled and delivered a fatal punch to the alien's face, and his neck jerked back and snapped. Brian released him and watched his body crumble to the ground. Then, he was held back by almost all the crew. Brian looked around in shock. He was a hero, why were they trying to stop him. Then Brian frowned, the body of the dead alien 'morphed' from the alien to Admiral Gr'iann. "You just killed an Admiral! You'll be killed for this!" said a young security officer next to him. Brian watched his horror has the medical staff tried to recover the admiral, but he knew they wouldn't do it. Then has the security team started to drag Brian to the brig.... (Posted by Kevin Schram) (Starbase Geneva, Library, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1025) Brian awoke with a jump. He was covered in a cold sweat. He then realized what kind of horrible dream he had just experienced. "Oh my god...." =^=Ensign Marta to Ensign Rogers, Ensign Klars and I are in route to your location to discuss what we have to do and ideas that we came up with. We would like to know your opinion and ideas. =^= His fellow counselor said. "Uh....sounds good, Ensign Marta." Brian said has he looked over his two PADD's that were in the desk in front of him. =^=Right, ok we will be there in a short bit, Kass out.=^= She said. Brian used his sleeve to clean the sweat off his forehead. (Posted by Kevin Schram) (Starbase Geneva - Observation Lounge - ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1026) "After you my good sir" Dorrin smiled at the counselor. Half playfully and half serious he said "hopefully someday I will be able to escort you somewhere under more favorable circumstances." Then he turned and went to the library. (Posted by Dan Black) (Starbase Geneva, Observation Lounge, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1027) After Paul had finished answering questions or concerns that the staff might have had, he sighed heavily. This was it, the big leagues. Being an acting first officer wasn't that easy, especially when you were outranked by some of your 'staff'. Paul was acutely aware of the ranks of some of the people he was assigning duties to, but remembered that technically he was command staff in his second officer and acting first officer capacities. So far it hadn't been an issue with anyone but he wondered what would happen the first time he gave an order that ran against one of their ideas or best interests. He hoped that it wouldn't happen. With that thought tucked away, Paul walked out of the Observation Lounge. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva - Library - ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars - 1030) As Dorrin went towards the library he grappled with his dislike of counselor Rogers. The main reason was that to Dorrin, it seemed the counselor was a glory seeker. In these times, that was not something the Fleet could afford. That was why when he saw the counselor, he said somewhat harshly "counselor, how nice it is that we can finally join you. I was curious in your reason for disobeying the order of working with us?" (posted by Dan Black) (Starbase Geneva, Library, COUNS Ensign (JG) Brian Rogers, 1031) Brian was sitting alone, trying to think about what he would say to the command staff when the meeting took place, but then Counselor Marta and Ensign....Klars or something along those lines walked in. Klars looked at him harshly and said. "Counselor, how nice it is that we can finally join you. I was curious in your reason for disobeying the order of working with us?" Brian was hardly in the mood to be talked to by someone of the same rank has him. "Excuse me, Ensign, but I didn't understand our orders that we had to work together." Brian then turned to Counselor Marta. "I'm sorry, Counselor." (reply Marta or Klars) "Well, let me show you what I have for my research so far," has Brian pointed to some seats across from his in the library. "I have done a basic search of the computer database of all collective files from pre-warp sources. What my research has told me is that 911 is some sort of emergency channel used in a communications device called a telephone. An airbag is a sort of low-tech internal damper, used to protect humans in the event of an accident in an internal-combustion vehicle. A re-run is a term used at the pre-warp Earth Naval Academy when a cadet would have to re-run the mile running course after failing to complete it in the normal time. I also believe the Surgeon General is a Fleet Medical Officer of some sort." Brian finished, and then looking up at his crewmates. "Has you can notice, there is an obvious connection between emergencies and the military. What did you two find? I'm sure with the brilliant Ensign Junior Grade Klars here, you found a lot." Brian said, smiling at Ensign Marta. He was a counselor, and should be above small feuds with crewmen, but Ensign Klars had hit a personal nerve with him. (Posted by Kevin Schram) (Starbase Geneva, Main Operations, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1032) Paul walked through the doors and onto the bridge. He scanned the area and saw the ever present Ensign Yalrath quickly vacate the command chair and return to her regular post. Paul smiled to himself, he was amazed at how quickly this group had pulled things together especially when he remembered back to his first few days in Main Operations of this station... before Captain Arianna had arrived. Paul knew that the Captain would probably be busy for awhile apprising Starfleet Command of the new 'planet' that had materialized next to them. He walked over and sat down in the command chair, he'd spent a lot of time in this command chair over the last while. "Ensign, anything new?" asked Paul. "No sir, nothing yet," came the quick response. Paul considered this for a minute. Sitting back and waiting for something to happen was not going to yield much fruit and he knew it. He had to consider the security of the station and the quest for knowledge that might explain more about what occurred this morning. "Ensign, I need you to shunt all external scanning sensors to Operations control for awhile. Send our regrets to other departments that might be using them," said Paul looking out at the planet. "Yes Sir," came the predictable reply. "I want a passive high-resolution series of multiphasic scans on that planet. For good measure I want you to do a magneton scan as well as a tomographic imaging scan," said Paul. This should be able to give at least a general idea of what this planet was all about. It should also detect energy pulses and give Paul some idea of what kind of energy sources they were using... all things being equal. "Ummm... sir... I'm having some problems, there appears to be interference with the scanning modules," said Yalrath. Paul shook his head for a minute, that wasn't possible. "Casely to Engineering. I thought you ran that diagnostic on the sensor arrays and said everything was working properly," said Paul feeling slightly annoyed. (Reply McLaren or De'Charin) "I see... sorry to bother you, the problem must be with the planet then," said Paul. So much for all things being equal. But what was keeping them out? "Ensign, scan the area around the planet for energy signatures and send out a tachyon pulse." "Yes sir." Then there was a pause as the readings came into Paul's console. He blinked twice and sharply took in a breath. This would be a problem. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva-Medical Center-ACMO Lt. Cmdr. Kaitlyn Mackenzie-1032) Still sitting glued to her chair, her mouth was wide open as she saw matches upon matches come up in the computer database. ~This can't be...~ She knew that if there were that many matches to what she was looking for, then these aliens weren't very far off from their ancestry. As she continued to input the information into the computer, things started to become more and more clear to her. Aside from the fact she already determined that there were two separate aliens, one of the aliens was almost identical to the human form. Digging in deeper, she wondered if she might be able to get a voice print from the transmission. As she played the transmission back, the computer beeped in response. However, it did not recognize the voice pattern, other than the fact that it was a primitive speech in progress. ~Ok, primitive speech and a skeletal structure almost exactly like ours......I'd say one is definitely human and male.~ As she recorded her findings, she continued to search for the other stats on the other alien. Comparing the second alien in the database was harder. Hardly no files at all even came close to matching. ~Well, that sure narrows it down.~ Sighing, Kaitlyn tried to think of a new approach, but couldn't. The only thing she had to work with was this bone structure unless she could get her hands on something else. ~Those microprobes would be really handy right now.~ =^=Doctor Mackenzie to Admiral Gr'iann,=^= she said in tapping her commbadge. =^=I wondered if you might have a minute. Could I meet up with you and Dr. Entagmn-Jensi for awhile?=^= <> =^=Ok, Mackenzie out.=^= In closing communications, she decided to bring her research with her so that she could share it with them and maybe get a better heads up on what kinds of information they were making these things transmit back to them. Picking her PADD up, she grabbed her med coat and headed out the door. (Posted by: Stacey) (Starbase Geneva, Library, ATAC Ensign Dorrin Klars, 1033) "Excuse me, Ensign, but I didn't understand our orders that we had to work together." Dorrin nearly lost his temper. The Lt. had specifically told them to work together, was this guy deaf? "As you can notice, there is an obvious connection between emergencies and the military. What did you two find? I'm sure with the brilliant Ensign Junior Grade Klars here, you found a lot." Dorrin nearly laughed. That childish attempt at touching a nerve with him was sad a pathetic. Not too mention that he was trying to compete with in a research project with him. Dorrin loved history, and he already saw some flaws in what Rogers said. "Actually, yes we have managed to find the historical basis for the phrases. By the way, a re-run was anything from redoing something, to a repeated episode, on a crude form of entertainment called television. The surgeon general existed when the Earth was still split into nations, he was basically the nation of America's chief health educator, though why they needed one I don't know. So the military thing doesn't really fit. Finally Houdini was an escape artist, long, very long before warp. Also counselor Marta had interesting theory based on the erratic time periods." He turned to counselor Marta "would you care to elaborate for the benefit of counselor Rogers?" (posted by Dan Black) (Starbase Geneva, Main Operations, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1106) Paul cradled a cup of hot coffee in his hands as he stared at the display. He was starting to feel irritated. Half an hour they had spent trying to penetrate whatever planetary shield the 'aliens' were using. He didn't want to fire weapons at it... he didn't want to be hostile towards them. So far they'd done nothing to Geneva or anyone aboard the station. He just needed to 'see' a bit of what that planet was like. "Ensign, boost the gain and flood the area with neutrino particles," stated Paul running his index finger along the words 'Federation Starbase Geneva' on the coffee cup. A second later, his order was carried out to no avail. Short of figuring out the shield harmonics, something that would be nearly impossible, Paul was stumped. He tapped his comm badge. "Lieutenant Casely to Engineering," he stated. (Reply McLaren or De'Charin) "I need more power to the station's external sensors. I also need a gamma radiation pulse sent towards the planet. No more than strength 10, nothing dangerous to the planet or the populace but something that might disrupt a particle shield for even a minute or two," said Paul. This would be his last possibility. (Reply McLaren or De'Charin) "Understood," said Paul. With that, he stood and waited for the modifications to be made. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) (Starbase Geneva, Deck 33, Engineering, Ensign McLaren, 1108) Matthew sat at a console in engineering frantically programming the specifications for the microprobes. He had made a few adjustments to the normal specs to make the sensors on the probes 20 per cent more efficient. The computer beeped as a block of data was process and returned with 2 errors. ~dam it~ He scrolled down to the lines of code that had errors and then began examining them. All of a sudden his vision blurred and he could no longer see the screen. He felt dizzy and grabbed the side of the console for support. Then it returned to normal and he shook his head and continued typing. A few minutes later it happened again and this time it was accompanied by a stabbing pain in his temples. He gasped out loud and doubled over onto the console. =^=Lieutenant Casely to Engineering,=^=came through the com system. Matthew groaned and tried to lift his head. "McLaren here." =^=I need more power to the station's external sensors. I also need a gamma radiation pulse sent towards the planet. No more than 10 strength, nothing dangerous to the planet or the populace but something that might disrupt a particle shield for even a minute or two,=^= The Lieutenant stated. The pain returned and Matthew fell forward back onto the console. It took him a few seconds to be coherent enough to respond. "Aaa, yes we'll begin making the---modifications immediately." Stars began swirling at the edge of his vision and he thought he might black out. He felt exhausted and drained. He struggled to sit but the pain in his head was making it very difficult. He didn't hear the reply from ops. After a minute he stood unsteadily and tapped his COM badge. Ensign McLaren to Ensign De'Charin, I need a hand with boosting the sensors. Could you meet me at my present loca---" A stabbing pain filled Mathew's head and he fell sideways onto the arm of his chair. His eyes were erupting in pain. They were pouring out liquid which was running down his face. He cried out as wave after wave of pain engulfed him. It was too much and he finally blacked out. (posted by Matthew McLaren) (Starbase Geneva, Main Operations, 2O/TAC/SC, Lieutenant {JG} Paul Casely, 1111) Paul was discussing Main Ops sensor needs with Ensign McLaren when he heard an odd sound... like someone falling against something. Perhaps the Ensign or another engineer had lost their footing. ~During times of excitement things happen.~ thought Paul. He hoped that if anyone had been hurt they had enough sense to call down to sickbay. They were under emergency protocols and there was no time to be lost at the moment due to people not following safety protocols. =^=Aaa, yes we'll begin making the---modifications immediately.=^= came McLaren's reply. It sounded... strange to say the least. Disjointed, odd... not like McLaren. Paul considered this for a second as the comm link was closed by McLaren. Caution was important at the moment, and Paul wasn't one not to let his hunches go unexamined. He tapped his comm badge. "Lieutenant Casely to Doctor MacKenzie, could you please head down to Main Engineering and check up on Ensign McLaren? It sounds like someone fell or something and his voice sounded... strange. I can't afford to have any of the senior staff injured or out of commission at the moment," asked Paul with genuine concern in his voice. (Reply MacKenzie) "Thank you doctor. Please report to me as soon as you know anything," said Paul before the comm link closed. (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) [END COMPILE]