>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Repercussions Day: 3 Stardate: 2444.07.11 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base -- Intel Office -- aACMO Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 0921) (Mars Base -- Intel Office -- CIO Ensign S.G. Jaelle Foxglove -- 0924) (Mars Base -- Intel Office -- aACMO Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 0927) (Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok -0929) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok-0931) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - Fighter Technician, Ensign JG Christopher West-0933) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok -0935) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - Fighter Technician, Ensign JG Christopher West -0936) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok-0937) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - Fighter Wing Technician Ensign JG Christopher West -093o) (USS Rebel Wind - Main Engineering, Master Status Room - Head of Reactivation & Refit Command’s Weapons & Propulsion Dept: Utopia Planitia, Ens. T’Loren Sevant - 1302) (Mars Base - Personal Quarters - ASEC, Ens. Svend Saarsgard - 1401) (Earth- Ketchikan, Alaska- Ravoks Earth residence- CEO Ensign Sg. Keira Merek & aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok Shara -1404) (Mars Base, Security Center, Holodeck 1, SPC, Tactical CPO Paul Kirby, 1603) (Mars Orbital - Operations Control – FOC Officer - Ensign (JG) – Oliver Wallis - 1658) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Head of Reactivation & Refit Command’s Weapons & Propulsion Dept: Utopia Planitia, Ens. T’Loren Sevant - 1710) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove - 17.11) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 17.19) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove - 1723) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander- 1724) (Starfleet HQ -- Ballroom--aACMO -- Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 1724) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - ENS SG Counselor Ariel Trei - 17.25) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO Ensig SG JaelleFoxglove - 1727) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 1728) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO - Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove - 1731) (USS Republic - Some Random Personal Quarters - CIO Ensign(Sg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1733) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 1733) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 1740) (Starfleet Command - Starfleet Medical - (SPC) President Stiave Atremi, (SPC) Admiral Donovan Cayne, Admiral (SPC) Jana Bell and Captain Remae Ktell - 1755) (Starfleet HQ -- Ballroom -- aACMO Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 1757) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical, Corridor - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander -1758) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical - R&R/W&P, Ens. T'Loren Sevant -1759) (Earth-Napa Valley- Home of Dale Bracken - FCSO Lt. JG Trip Williams and SPC Civilian Liaison Ashyln Jones - 18:00) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical, Corridor - CIO - Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove -1801) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical - R&R/W&P, Ens. T'Loren Sevant - 1830) (Mars Facility- Fighter Wing Command Complex – Pilot – Ensign – Ire Williams - 1832) (Mars Facility- Fighter Wing Command Complex – Pilot – Ensign – Ire Williams - 1832) (Earth - Outside StarFleet Medical HQ - ACMO Ensign (sg) Erin Cortez - 1834) (Mars Base, Security Services, CSec Office - SCO, Ens(sg) Carson Peters - 1834) (Starfleet HQ - Corridor - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander and CMO Ensign SG Ailynn Bracken - 1835) (Mars Base - Security Services, Quarters - ASEC Ens. Saarsgard - 1835) (USS Boudicca - Strategic Operations, Primary War Room - Stratops, Vice-Adm Sevant - 1835) (Mars Orbital - Operations Control – FOC Officer Ensign (JG) – Oliver Wallis - 1836) (Starfleet HQ - Corridor - ENS SG Counselor Ariel Trei - 18.37) (Mars Facility, Science Annex- 5th floor, CSRD office– CSRD- Lieutenant (jg) Sekal- 1838) (Mars Base - Security Services, Armory - SecO - Petty Officer (2nd Class) Steven Hammons- 1840) (Mars Base – Medical Research Building – Unclaimed Research Office – Medical Research - Ensign JG Dural Methor DrPH – 1841) (Mars Base, Main Building, Floor 7, CaC - SCO, Ens(sg) Carson Peters - 1842) (USS Boudicca - Strategic Operations, Primary War Room - Stratops, Vice-Adm Sevant - 1842) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area (Portico)- SecO - Petty Officer (2nd Class) Steven Hammons- 1844) (Earth - Outside StarFleet Medical HQ - Shuttle - ACMO Ensign (sg) Erin Cortez/SPC Gul Dulon - 1844) (Starfleet HQ- Cockpit of Valkyrie Fighter MkV Designation Ares 01 - FCSO Lt. JG Trip Williams and Flight Officer Ensign JG Ronnie Winters - 1845) (Mars Facility- Medical – Nurse Ewan McDonald -1846) (Mars Base, Main Building, Floor 7 -CSRD- Lieutenant (JG) Sekal- 1848) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area - ASEC, Ens. Svend Saarsgard - 1848) (Present time - Shuttle - ACMO Erin Cortez/Gul Dulon - 1849) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area - (SPC)- SecO- Petty Officer (2nd Class Steven Hammons - 1850) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area - ASEC, Ens. Svend Saarsgard - 1853) (Mars Base - Security Center, Main Lounge - ASEC, Ens. Saarsgard - 1855) (Mars Base – Central Medical – Med Research - Ensign JG Dural Methor DrPH – 1855) (Mars Base, Security Services, CSec Office - SCO, Ens(sg) Carson Peters - 2225) (Mars Facility, Science Annex, CSRD Office – CSRD- Lt. (Jg) Sekal, (NPC) VDF Commodore Saleke and (SPC) Luma'Lenai - 2250) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base -- Intel Office -- aACMO Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 0921) "Okay where would you like to begin." “Well I know you are in a stressful position,” Quinna started but also knew that she herself was in a more stressful position. She had to put up with irritable officers that make her feel like and inconvenience. She noted the tone that was used earlier, even of it was not intended to been seen. “What do you do to handle that stress?” Quinna asked. (Reply Foxglove) “Tell me about the people you have met here. Things you enjoy when not on duty?” Quinna was hoping to see a softer side. (Reply Foxglove) (Played by Kris) (Mars Base -- Intel Office -- CIO Ensign S.G. Jaelle Foxglove -- 0924) “What do you do to handle that stress?” Quinna asked. "I hone my skills," Jaelle answered pointly. She wasn't about to betry her singing in such a manner it was a life she had to give up, and it still stung. As for her dancing, Jaelle had long ago incorporated her dance into her fighting style so it wasn't a far stretch of the truth. “Tell me about the people you have met here. Things you enjoy when not on duty?” Quinna was hoping to see a softer side. "I've talked to a few people, mostly in passing and nothing more than the business of the day. I have a good report with security and science. Other than that I tend to keep to myself..." she let her voice trail off. Not many cared to know about her, her past, what she was capable of. I had scared off more than one so called friend. (Reply Quinna) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (Mars Base -- Intel Office -- aACMO Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 0927) "I've talked to a few people, mostly in passing and nothing more than the business of the day. I have a good report with security and science. Other than that I tend to keep to myself..." she let her voice trail off. “Well that is no good.” Here came the part where for Quinna it was a ‘do as I say and not as I do moment.’ (Reply Foxglove) “Do you have issues of meeting people on a non professional level. Feel like you are intruding in a way when you do?” Quinna knew that feeling. (Reply Foxglove) “You know I do not have to be a counselor right now if you do not want me to be.” Quinna hoped for moure openness. (Reply Foxglove) (Played by Kris) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok -0929) After dropping his newly acquired puppy off to his step mother. Ravok made arrangements to have the travel belongings of Ensign Mereks and his brought to the hangar and placed in stowage aboard Warbird One. Ravok walked inside his office and took a seat at his desk, Ensign Merek was no doubt getting herself ready for the Trip. He had informed her they were taking the fighter, the look on her face was priceless. Ravok scanned through some files on his terminal , diagnostics were complete on Warbird One. The simulation from the previous day was a success and his fighter performed well within expected tolerances. He had thought about disarming the fighter for the trip to earth but since it was already out fitted with its full torpedo and weapons compliment he didn't want to have it unloaded just to reload it for the next day. " Well seems like everything is done here" he said to himself out loud as he looked around his office, glancing over at the framed image of him and his father on graduation day. " di'ranov, ( romulan for father) had I'd known that was the last time I was ever going to see you. I would of told you thank you for the life you have given me, thank you for letting me pilot the Darmod, thank you for helping me feel proud of my heritage. Thank you for letting me know that there was so much more to our people than conquest and enslavement of innocent people. Thank you for showing me the compassion that is within the heart of us all , even in the hearts of the darkest of our race." He paused and drew a deep, slow breath. " Just ...Thank you for everything, every step in my life will be for you, because of you. You may be gone, but I am still here to live for your glory. Our clan will live on through me. I am Ravok ir'Darmod-Lathuel tr'Shara, but above all else I am forever your son." He concluded, smiling at the framed image. " On our way then….." he stated. Referring to the command his father would say to him time and time again as a course was laid into the helm controls at the beginning of every journey. ( reply any) (Posted by Davis) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok-0931) The door to his office opened and in walked a technician . "Sir do you have a moment" He said as he entered the office. "There is something I wanted to talk yo you about." Ravok stood up and motioned to the chair across from him. " Of coarse, take a seat. Im actually surprised you wanted to talk with me. " He said as he sat back down. "Well actually I wanted to talk to Lieutenant Williams about it, but he isn't here." " Well , I can listen and pass the word along. I cant approve much outside of my squadron, but I am here for everyone." "It's about an Idea I have for the old Peregrines." Ravok raised his brow " Oh...well what do you have in mind Ensign?"He asked very interested. Ravok had been thinking about them as well, curious as to what was going to become of them. (Reply Christopher west) ( posted by Davis ) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - Fighter Technician, Ensign JG Christopher West-0933) "So here is thing, as you know, since the Mystique left for Trill, we've been slowly phasing out the Peregrines for Mk IIIs. In fact, we're pretty much almost there." (Reply Ravok) "Now Lieutenant Williams wants us to keep most of the Peregrines handy for back up fighters just in case. You know in case you flyboys decide to do, what we techs are calling, 'pulling an Ire'." (reply Ravok) "However, we have 12 of them that are in fantastic shape. And I think if you brought this idea to Lt. Williams, we could probably re-purpose them for a new squadron. Not like your squadrons. They probably dont have that kind of mileage, but they are perfect for what I have planned." (reply Ravok) "How much do you know about the original purpose of the Peregrine class." (reply Ravok) (reply Ravok) (posted by Will Banowsky (NPC Christopher West) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok -0935) "So here is thing, as you know, since the Mystique left for Trill, we've been slowly phasing out the Peregrines for Mk IIIs. In fact, we're pretty much almost there." " I've noticed, certainly a credit to the good work of you and your fellow technicians " Ravok said. "Now Lieutenant Williams wants us to keep most of the Peregrines handy for back up fighters just in case. You know in case you flyboys decide to do, what we techs are calling, 'pulling an Ire'." Ravok didn't laugh or smirk at the Ire remark . In fact he felt bad for the reputation his friend had built for himself. Ravok would poke gentle fun in private but certainly not among anyone beneath, even if his position was only in an acting capacity. "However, we have 12 of them that are in fantastic shape. And I think if you brought this idea to Lt. Williams, we could probably re-purpose them for a new squadron. Not like your squadrons. They probably dont have that kind of mileage, but they are perfect for what I have planned." Ravok leaned forward in his chair. " What exactly do you have in mind?" "How much do you know about the original purpose of the Peregrine class." " Initial development plans started in early 2369. Designed by a engineer named Juro Benin. The first of the Peregrines rolled out of production in early 2370 , the initial concept was a courier, which was capable of defending itself and transporting vital cargo. Modified into a fighter class during the dominion wa..." Ravok stopped himself. " I'm sorry, I ramble when asked about the purpose of ships and their designs. I'm kind of a nerd" He laughed. ( reply Ensign west) ( posted by Davis ) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - Fighter Technician, Ensign JG Christopher West -0936) " Initial development plans started in early 2369. Designed by a engineer named Juro Benin. The first of the Peregrines rolled out of production in early 2370 , the initial concept was a courier, which was capable of defending itself and transporting vital cargo. Modified into a fighter class during the dominion wa..." Ravok stopped himself. " I'm sorry, I ramble when asked about the purpose of ships and their designs. I'm kind of a nerd" He laughed. "Well the most important thing is the original design as a courier. For a fighter, it has way too much open space in the back." (reply Ravok) "If you remember when y'all went off to take on the pirates, we were able to right that extra space into sort of temporary quarters so you guys could be all nice and rested for the big hoe down." (reply Ravok) "So here is my proposal for the peregrines. Tone down the weapon load a bit, make it a wee bit less powerful, but still enough to hold their own in a fight." (reply Ravok) "Instead we configure it so that extra power flow goes into boosting the sensors and rig the cargo area with hologram emitters. Much like with type 11's. Plug in an EMH, and convert the cargo space into a mini sick bay." (reply Ravok) "We are all set and equipped with fighters if we have to take out an enemy, but what do we do if a shuttle malfunctions in the asterioid belt, or there is an accident between Mercury and Venus, and we have a race against time to try and find them?" (reply Ravok) "That's right sir, we take 12 peregrines and configure them into a Search and Rescue Squadron." (reply Ravok) (reply Ravok) (posted by Will Banowsky (NPC Christopher West) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok-0937) "Well the most important thing is the original design as a courier. For a fighter, it has way too much open space in the back." " I agree, the aft section of the fighter was too light" Ravok remarked. "If you remember when y'all went off to take on the pirates, we were able to right that extra space into sort of temporary quarters so you guys could be all nice and rested for the big hoe down." " Plenty of room that's for sure" He said to him. "So here is my proposal for the peregrines. Tone down the weapon load a bit, make it a wee bit less powerful, but still enough to hold their own in a fight." As Ensign west spoke Ravok was keying the Ensigns proposal " I'm all Ears" "Instead we configure it so that extra power flow goes into boosting the sensors and rig the cargo area with hologram emitters. Much like with type 11's. Plug in an EMH, and convert the cargo space into a mini sick bay." " We would have to upgrade the computer cores to handle the addition of an EMH, but that shouldn't be an issue " Ravok replied. "We are all set and equipped with fighters if we have to take out an enemy, but what do we do if a shuttle malfunctions in the asterioid belt, or there is an accident between Mercury and Venus, and we have a race against time to try and find them?" Ravok smirked as he looked at Ensign West. " We use the proposed, modified Peregrines" "That's right sir, we take 12 peregrines and configure them into a Search and Rescue Squadron." " That's a great idea, truly a great idea. I dont see Lt. Willams rejecting such a proposal. I will add a proposal to have Engineering assist in boosting engine efficiency as well. We have the technology to upgrade the speeds of the peregrines, it just hasnt been high on the priority list, but I think this proposal of yours will make it a top priority if this leads to the formation of an additional squadron. Search and rescue ...I like it alot. I will send this to Lt. Willams at once and I will have a personal word with him about this, when I see him next. " Ravok said as he finished keying in the proposal. While keying in the proposal Ravok opened the fighter wing roster, discreetly and put a name to the face. ( reply west) Ravok stood and extended his hand " Ensign West , thank you so much. For everything you do and for coming to me with this excellent idea. " ( reply West) " Once this goes through, I will make myself personally available to assist with any of the overhauls, and modifications to the operational systems of the Peregrines." ( reply west) Ravok nodded his head " Have a good day Ensign , you may leave at your convenience " he said as he sat back down. (Reply west) ( posted by davis) ( Mars Facility- 1sr fighter wing- M01 Hangar - Ravoks office - Fighter Wing Technician Ensign JG Christopher West -093o) Chris walked into Ravok's office. He had hoped to meet with Trip, but he was earth side. Chris was older than most ensigns, having had a career before Starfleet. In fact he never went to the academy. He had been a civilian engineer working on civilian craft for a decade, shuttles, some fighters for air shows, things like that. He had ended up on Mars working for an air circus when the base reopened. Somehow the brass had heard about him, saw his resume, and offered him a commission to come aboard and help work on the fighters. He had more practical experience maintaining a Peregrine than most of the young kids fresh out of the academy or NCO training. "Sir do you have a moment" He said as he entered the office. "There is something I wanted to talk yo you about." (reply Ravok) "Well actually I wanted to talk to Lieutenant Williams about it, but he isn't here." (reply Ravok) "It's about an Idea I have for the old Peregrines." (reply Ravok) (reply Ravok) (posted by Will Banowsky (NPC Christopher West) (USS Rebel Wind - Main Engineering, Master Status Room - Head of Reactivation & Refit Command’s Weapons & Propulsion Dept: Utopia Planitia, Ens. T’Loren Sevant - 1302) =^="Ensign Stennin for T'Loren.=^= ~Who?~ Loren looked up at her holographic compatriot with one penciled eyebrow quirked exactly one-sixteenth of an inch. He shrugged without looking up, "I've seen his name attached to the sciences, I don't have access to personnel files without your express permission each time. From what I've seen though, your kind of people." Her eyes narrowed slightly as she reached up and tapped the comm implant behind her ear. "This is Ensign Sevant, my given name is not usually used for official business. What can I do for you Ensign?" =^=I was informed that you are a weapons specialists in this department. I have a weapons project. It would be logical if you could assist me.=^= A small choking sound emerged from Mick, quickly suppressed as the quasi-Lieutenant turned back to his status panel and brought up a schematic of the M/ARC and plasma conduit system- all the items that had been part of the simulation an hour ago that had gone so disastrously. She mouthed 'You're my personal AI assistant, not my comedic relief.' The hologram might not have been looking at her, but the sensors caught her words anyway, and the figure seemed to fight back more chuckles. T'Loren ground her teeth for the upteenth time, and promised she'd wipe the personality matrix which had developed. "I am finishing a report for Starfleet Engineering regarding a simulation done today, and it must been done in two hours. If you wish to discuss your project immediately, you will have to come to the USS Rebel Wind, I can have a security pass issued to you for a one-time beamover. Otherwise..." =^=That is agreeable. I will see you shortly.=^= "Very well," and she cut the channel. "Computer, institute a one-time security pass for..." she paused and brought up the ensign's name on her PADD, which she then flicked to the main Master Situation Monitor. "That officer. Authorize the allowance of data devices, and data transfer to the Rebel Wind on a provisional basis." [Done] She rubbed at her pointed ear in thought as she gazed at the holo Lt that was her AI assistant given temporary form. "And you..." "Don't try to go all Vulcan on me, it won't work, I know exactly what percentage of vulcan ancestry your blood holds." "Computer, dismiss holographic projection of Sevant-AI." The computer beeped and the Lieutenant disappeared, leaving Loren alone in the engineering section. She rubbed her forehead as the AI gravely reported a lack of corporeal body in her ear: something it was in the habit of doing when she shut down the EMH system. "AI, shut up - and download all personnel files for this Ensign Stennin to my personal PADD. Whatever I have access to, anyway." (reply Stennin, any) (posted by Trout) (Mars Base - Personal Quarters - ASEC, Ens. Svend Saarsgard - 1401) [...and of course, Lieutenant Exvra has been trying to get into my pants. I might just let him, if you take much longer doing... whatever it is you're doing.] The face of his russian redhead looked at him with eagle-eyed sharpness, only slightly marred by the fact that she was about four inches tall on a small holo-device used for personal messages. Svend put his feet up on his desk and looked at her small face with his hands interlaced behind his head. He'd not yet gotten around to telling her that his transfer had been made permanent; dual-transferred no less, with a position on the MDP AND whatever ship this pain-in-the-ass of an Admiral decided to take out on a joyride at a whim. To be honest, he'd not yet admitted it to himself. While being on Mars, at the forefront of Starfleet defense and construction, used to be a true honor... now it was just a sign of the backwater that Earth was becoming. And it was incredibly depressing. It was one thing to have a weapon at your side and hold the line against any enemy here at the center of Starfleet Defense. It was another to watch that center go sort and rotten. Not to mention, that pain in the ass of a Lieutenant was trying to take his woman. Grr. [Anyway, I have to go. There's an engine test scheduled for the early morn, 0500 comes too early.] She made a kissing gesture and reached out. The image disappeared a moment later, leaving him alone with his thoughts again. He tilted his head to learn against the back of the chair, one specifically ordered to fit his huge frame, and looked up at the ceiling of his small quarters. He’d watched the video at least half a dozen times, and he’d not yet managed the courage to send a message back with all the bad news. He had to soon though, or someone would show up to pick up his personals from her quarters without any other prior warning. He could only imagine the hell that would raise. Even if the ship survived her wrath, he certainly wouldn't. She would walk her happy ass across the light-years with nothing more than a held breath and determined expression, only to grab his guts through his belly button and drag him back to the Wraith like a disobedient puppy. . [You have received a private message, personal identification required.] He blinked and leaned forward, pulling the computer screen to face him. “Show message, authorization...” He went through all the usual procedures and, a few moments later, a small text message appeared with quite a few security attachments. He frowned as his feet came off the desk and he fully turned his attention to the computer. "Huh," he said after a quick read-through. "I wonder what the Chief wants?" Well, no matter, he'd find out soon enough. (reply: none) (Earth- Ketchikan, Alaska- Ravoks Earth residence- CEO Ensign Sg. Keira Merek & aFSXO Ensign Sg. Ravok Shara -1404) It didn’t take the pair long to go to the market and return. If not for needing the time to work on the craft in the hangar, and maybe some other things when or if they finished, she would have quite liked to walk. The only real delays they got were a few stares from the townsfolk. A pair with pointed ears that “wadn’t from ‘round here” who just walked out of a noisey shuttle didn’t help. There was a curious little boy that shyly stared around the corner of one aisle at Keira, and she waved at him in a friendly manner. His mother dragged him away, “Don’t want him to be a bother” she said, dragging him along and out of the store. They made it back in good time. " Now, I know I grew up eating slop from food processors, but I am curious as to how you plan on making all this come together" he said as he leaned his back against a counter top , with his arms folded. Ravok was definitely out of his element when it came to cooking. Processed nutrient paste and replicated food is all he knew. Keira was in the kitchen sharpening a knife. “You’ll see. It was something we did around summer time. The year round growing seasons these were the things that became readily available at that time. They aren’t exact matches but they are fairly close.” She checked the sharpness of the blade, and frowned, apparently not satisfied.She brought out a rectangular stone from a drawer, poured water on it from the sink and began sharpening. “ I’m actually surprised you did have kitchen knives.” She said over the high pitched noises of scraping metal against the sharpening stone, “I’m not surprised of the shape they are in.” Ravok laughed. " They were part of something called a house warming gift from…someone. I never got around to using them." He hesitated in his statement about the knives. They were a gift from his Ex , Lauren. It was an attempt by her to make him more adjusted to living among humans on earth during his time at the academy. Ravok didn't want to bring her up around Keira. In fact he didn't want to bring her up at all. "Maybe I should make you a better set of kitchen knives…." She said absent mindedly as she flipped the knife over and began working on the other side of the edge. Ravok couldn't help but laugh at her suggestion. " If you think the knives I have are so bad, sure. " "Speaking of knives, you remember the knife I made for you?" She asked. He reached behind his back and under his shirt " This one?" He asked as he pulled the bladed weapon out of its cleverly hidden sheath and spun it around his hand, before holding it out in front of him, grinning. "Well, I was thinking maybe the other pilots might quite like to have one of their own," she began. " You never know when it might come in handy. Better to have one and not need it , than to need it and not have it." He stated. "Well, there's that, which is the reason, one of the reasons I made yours. What would they do if they crashed on a remote planet? What would they have?" She asked. " We have phasers that we carry just for that purpose." "They'd have the type II in the stowage, yes. What would happen if they landed on a world with hyperonic radiation, and their phasers are useless?" She asked while finishing up the second side of the kitchen knife. " Highly improbable, but still not impossible. I see the point you are making, I certainly don't wish to disagree with a knife sharpening badass." He chuckled. "A good knife could make the difference between them coming back or not." She said. " Ire would be the one who would crash on to a planet with hyperonic radiation, with the luck he has." Ravok laughed. "I know, right?" she said with a grin as she rinsed the microscopic metal slivers off the triangular blade. She patted it dry with a white kitchen towel, and deftly stropped the blade with a piece of leather that was hanging from the corner underneath the countertop. Ravok looked at the piece of leather. " Huh, I was wondering what that was for ,but in all honesty. I know they would appreciate the gesture. Trip would appreciate the fine detail of your craftsmanship and Ire would just be thankful all around. " "Can you hand me that pineapple?" She asked, pointing at the large rough fruit. " Yes, here you go" He said, handing her the pineapple. "Thanks." She said as she began cutting up what looked very rough and tough, but the newly sharpened knife was going through it as if it were made of butter. "I want to put some attention into what they are made of, like I did with yours." " Adding a personal touch would be great" He remarked. "Ire's Bajoran, right?" Keira inquired. " He's half Bajoran, everyone is half something these days" Ravok said. "Okay, half." She had finished turning the pineapple into large chunks of skinless yellow fruit. She pushed those edible chunks into a bowl, and placed it to one side as she spoke. "Isn't Bajor a major source of Iridium ore?" Ravok nodded his head " Yes, a lot of Bajor's finest antiquities are made with Iridium" "That's what I thought, and I knew you'd know that, your freighter was all over those parts. I don't like that business of slave labor though, you think we can get some that was mined by people who were paid a fair wage? I don't want any of that blood ore the occupation left behind." She said while cutting up green bell peppers. " My father had a few contacts in the area. I could ask Kora to see what she can do." He answered. She placed the seed clusters to dry off to one side, placed the knife on the cutting board and grabbed the portabella mushrooms and began washing them. "His other half is human, though right?" "Yes, half human" "Maybe I can alloy it with something from the Sol system, like Martian iron?" She pondered out loud using him as a sounding board. " You think Iridium and Martian Iron would work together?" "I actually don't know if it will. It might weld though, a pattern weld would look really nice, I think." She admitted. " You're the smithing expert. Kora would be able to tell you a lot more on the subject. Her father was a famous Klingon Bat'leth producer...speaking of which. I have something for you from Kora. " "When did you get time to bring something in?" she inquired. " I snuck it in while you were changing out of your flight suit. " he said as he walked to a closet and opened the door. He pulled out a black carrying case, laying it on the island counter top in the center of the kitchen. He popped the latches open and turned the case toward her, opening it up. Inside the case were animals furs covering something up. Her hand hovered over the case hesitant to touch it. " Go ahead , check it out " he said. She moved the packing animal skins to either side which revealed a double crescent familiar form of a Klingon Bat'leth or sword of honor. "Forged in the... fires of honor…" she said working her way though the words inscribed in Klingon, but reading it in Federation standard. "Forged in the house of Kal'Beroth" Keira assumed it to be a maker's mark of sorts. " When Kora left the homeworld her father casted her out, and later completely disowned her for being with my Father. Her brother now leads the house and has let her rejoin. She is Kora, of house Kal'Beroth once again. " She turned the Bat'leth over in her hands, it had less weight than it looked like it should. " She had one made for you, her, and myself. Your name is scorched into the leather grip of the center handle. " Ravok said. She worked to make out the inscription on the other side, she quickly realised that her name is not Klingon, so it was her name spelled out phonetically in Klingon "Keira of Merek, I suppose now I'm going to have to learn how to use this thing.." " You grew up around all those klingons, and you didn't learn anything?" "Nope, all those Klingons and very few Bat'leths. If they did have one I had never seen them," she admitted. "I'll play around with this later," she said with a grin, and placed it back in the case it came in. "Finish up food prep and start cooking?" She said, "just a few more steps, and it'll be ready." Ravok took the case off the counter and stood it against the wall as he asked " So what exactly are you making ?" "OK, since you got me the pretty sharp and pointy, I'll tell you. They're called shish kebabs. Usually they are made with cubes of meat as well, but they work just fine without out animal parts. Many of the Romulans were on a restricted diet like you and this was one way we could all enjoy the summer crops." " Shish Kebabs…"He said as he thought about the name , he had heard it before . ~ Turkish, it's Turkish for Skewer and roasted meat. Earth , western Oghuz language family~ He thought to himself, recalling deep seeded information he learned studying terran linguistics. "Just have to cut up the onion." She looked down at all the food that was prepped. "Looks like you'll have some leftovers. Maybe we can give some away to your neighbors?" " Oh, I'm sure they would appreciate that. They're a good family. They had me over to celebrate an old Earth holiday. Referred to as Thanksgiving ." He said as he paused "Is your family still...around?" The red onion was cut up into large chunks in virtually a blink of an eye. The resulting irritation to her eyes made them water slightly then the clear membrane reflexively covered her eyes to help protect them from the source. She grabbed the bamboo skewers and showed Ravok how to assemble them while she spoke. “Yes, both my folks are still alive and kicking. They’re still living on Carraya IV,” she said. “Actually I’m past due to holocall them.” Ravok started assembling the skewers, as he was shown and said " Dont you think you should call them and let them know their little girl is now a chief engineer. Might be a 'little' bit of a big deal." He said emphasizing the word little with a hand gesture, using his index finger and thumb. “Yes, I’m a bad daughter.” she said accepting the teasing without letting it get her down. ”We’ve been busy, and right now they could be in their sleep cycle,” she added, now making excuses. "Excuses!" He said pretending to cough, definitely calling her out on her bullcrap. He laughed afterwards , giving her a playful smile to let her know he was kidding and hopefully she wouldn't stick him with the skewer in her hand . “You know what, fine,” she said wiping off her hands, “I’ll check.” She picked up her PADD and performed the calculations. “They are in the latter half of their night cycle. Four hours until dawn.” " Give them a call when they wake up, I know if I had a daughter and she accomplished what you have so far, I would be screaming the news across the quadrant." While he spoke she finished the second to last skewer and left the last for him. “Do you have a holo emitter here?” Ravok finished the last of the skewers and nodded his head " Yes, there's one in living room and the master bedroom. " “We’ll call at their dawn, about 1800ish our time. I’ll introduce you to my folks.” she said. " Well, if we are calling your folks to introduce me. I think it's best we use the one in the living room." He said laughing. "So what have you told them about me?" “They don’t know about you, yet….”she admitted in a lower tone. A human wouldn’t have picked up on the low volume but Ravok’s Romulan ears would pick up easily. Ravok leaned his ear toward her " They don't know about me yet? This is going to be nice. Oh hey mom and dad meet Ravok, We've been seeing each other for a month now." He said, mocking her. “Well, the last boy who came “courting” he chased off.” she admitted as a way of explaining her hesitance to announce their relationship. “It was a half Klingon about 17 years old.” " Did we point a phaser or disruptor at him. I've had that experience. How did your father chase him off ? " he asked “With his bare hands. Maybe that was so he didn’t kill the kid.” she said. Now saying it outloud she realized where her temper comes from. “We had to give up a couple prize wool bearing livestock to make amends so his family didn’t get angry. Word spread fast, I didn’t get any suitors coming to call after that.” Ravok stared off into the distance. Already mentally preparing himself for this encounter. “Well, these are ready. I saw that grill out back, we can use that.” she said. He snapped out of it and looked at her " Yeah...let's go " he said as he grabbed the tray in which the skewers were laid upon and walked them out the door. He sat the tray on the side of the grill and typed in a code on the grills keypad, the air tight sanitation cover retracted to reveal the grill itself. Also a set of sanitized grilling utensils rose up from the side of the grill. " I'm just worried about one thing though." He said to her “What’s that?” she asked, very eager for a possible subject change. " Well, depending how in the loop your father has been during the last 50 years or so he might get a little worried when he hears the name Shara, considering my uncle was a murderous psychopath, maybe you should tell him intelligence investigated me thoroughly and determined I had no immediate interaction with him my entire life. Also the fact he is said to have died in the destruction of Romulus." “Well there’s that and your mom too, right?” she asked. " Okay and maybe we could just leave out the bit where my mother was a Tal Shiar operative." He laughed “We can keep it all about the Starfleet stuff.” she offered “They’ll be too excited their little girl has done good.” she said. “She’ll be excited that her little Ljósálfar is the Chief Engineer. We can roll with that.” Ravok nodded his head and placed his hands on his waist, looking at the grill. " Yep...its a grill" he remarked, trying to not let on to the fact that he had no idea to operate it. “Do you know how to operate this thing?” she said, indicating the grill. " Short answer. No, I do understand it needs to be ignited somehow." He said as he pressed random buttons on the keypad. " We cook on a fire" “On a fire, yeah. I guess I am an engineer, I could figure out how it works eventually.” she leaned over to get a look at the contraption. “This tank is the fuel source?” Ravok looked " Yes it says propane, that is a highly flammable gas. That has to be it " She followed the fuel line from the propane tank, it lead to a turn valve and a heating element inside the grill. “I think I got it.” She opened the valves and a low could be heard as the fuel went through the line. She moved the dial on the front to “Light” waited a brief period before she pushed the ignite button. A metallic click and small blue flames appeared on the heating elements deep inside the cooking area. Ravok looked at her and smiled. " Ladies and gentleman , we have lift off " (Mars Base, Security Center, Holodeck 1, SPC, Tactical CPO Paul Kirby, 1603) =^=Sleeford to Ensigns Saarsgard and Taya.=^= Paul had been watching the tactical drills when he received the comm call. Ensign Taya had forwarded them to him, so he moved away from the action so he could reply. "This is CPO Kirby for Ensign Taya. Go ahead please." =^=Are you both free this evening? I've been asked to meet with you for a brief meet and greet.=^= This Sleeford must not have heard Paul identifying himself. The holo room was quite loud, so that's probably what it was. "Ensign Taya is busy right now. Can I have her call you back?" =^=Okay great. Nineteen hundred hours in the main lounge?=^= Paul wasn't sure what to do. It was clear now there was too much background noise. The tactical drills were going to take a lot of time, and knowing Taya as he did, she wasn't going to go on a break, especially just to eat and chat with someone she didn't know. "Mister Sleeford, I'll tell Ensign Taya you called. Kirby out." Paul activated the PADD he carried and accessed the transfer logs. Ensign Sleeford was a new security officer that just arrived. Sighing, he could predict what Taya was going to say. He just had to wait for the right time to barge in on her work and tell her. (reply Sleeford if you want) (posted by Rob Brown) (SPC CPO Paul Kirby) ( reply none ) ( posted by Todd- Ensign Keira Merek and Davis- Ensign Ravok Shara) (Mars Orbital - Operations Control – FOC Officer - Ensign (JG) – Oliver Wallis - 1658) Oliver paused at the door of the operational control and smiled to him self. He was one of those lucky people who really enjoyed his work. He had been a fighter operations controller since graduating from the academy and was now in charge of a shift. He glanced at the large wall mounted screen that took up one large wall which showed all vessels in the Sol system along with their speed and orientation as they moved across the system. There was a low murmur of voices as the controllers coordinated the dance of system traffic. He had been glad that they had moved out the Operations centre, it was not that there was anything wrong with the Ops centre, but it was nice to have their own place and not having to share. As he moved over to his console he nodded to his opposite number who was the civilian operations control officer who dealt with the civilian vessels in the system. He stopped beside the console and spoke quietly to the Ensign he was relieving, who was the fighter operations control officer who had authority for all the Starfleet vessels in this part of the Sol system. “How it is going.” The Ensign looked up at him and nodded. “We are good. The fighters are out on a wide patrol they will be swing back soon for their hand over.” He glanced up at the large screen and quickly found the icons of the patrolling squadron and their planned route back to mars. “Anything else?” “Yes the Endurance should also be docking soon.” He shared the same grimace as the Ensign. Due to the Endurance being a light ship and being slow to manoeuvre meant that she needed a large amount of space to transit through to get to the station. Which meant that other vessels needed to be redirected to different approaches. “I will feel better when she is docked and out of our hair…………..anything else?” “No everything seems quiet. Have a good shift and try not to snore too loudly when you fall asleep.” He shook his head and grinned as he slid into his seat. He entered his access code and put a small ear peace in his ear. He spoke softly as he tapped his console to open the comm to the other controllers who were under him coordinating their areas of approach. “Hallo everyone what do we have, lets start with sector one please.” He looked at the big screen as his controllers reported in. (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (SPC Oliver Wallis) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Head of Reactivation & Refit Command’s Weapons & Propulsion Dept: Utopia Planitia, Ens. T’Loren Sevant - 1710) Loren looked around the ballroom, what she could see of it, with something approaching despair. She was not fond of large group gatherings, she was not fond of rubbing up against people she didn’t know, and her analysis of the Rebel Winds’ performance was only half complete. It was only ten minutes into the official ball, so she still had at least twenty more minutes to look like she was enjoying herself before she could commandeer a table in the corner and pull out the two PADDs she had tucked away inside her tailored uniform. She recognized a good number of people by their personnel file, which she’d made sure to memorize once they had arrived via the Mystique. She hadn’t had a chance, or even a reason, to get to know them yet. She wasn’t sure she’d ever have to frankly, most of them would never mingle with her small sub-department unless they had reason to take part in the refit of the fleet. The ensign had always tried hard not to let the vulcan parts of her heritage interfere with her day-to-day operations, but right now, her presence here was being strongly tagged with the word ‘illogical’ within her own mind, She could make better use of her time elsewhere. She took a slow, deep breath - her fifth in the last ten minutes - and made a show of taking a sip from her champagne flute while her free hand remained firmly planted in the small of her back. A mix of formal, and informal, hopefully enough to discourage the random person from coming up and flirting with her while she was working on other things in her mind, somewhere far from this social event that starfleet seemed to find so interesting these days. “You have the look of your mother, except for your eyes. Those mark you as your father’s daughter.” T’Loren turned on her heel and came to an abrupt halt. The speaker had admirals pips. Just one, but that one weighed infinitely more than her single Ensign’s pip. He was human by the look of it, old, and it seemed like he was impossibly tall. He looked vaguely familiar to her, but she couldn’t place the craggy salt & pepper beard or narrowed eyes. The black of his uniform also served as a distraction, she didn’t know all that many intelligence folk of any rank, much less flag-rank. He eyed her for a long moment while she worked out what her response should be - and then her brilliant smile broke over her face.”I take it you know my family, Admiral...” “And that smile doesn’t reach your eyes. Yes, you are definitely your father’s daughter.” He reached out and put his own champagne flute on the table next to them and moved forward to a more comfortable speaking distance. Yet, for all that, his voice was pitched so low that she wouldn’t have been able to hear him, had her hearing not been at or near vulcan norms. “I owe your mother one, so I’ll say this once. Do not leave here alone, do not let anyone talk you into leaving, and find reasons to stay off the Rebel Wind if you’re not amidst your whole department. If I were you, I would become a very social creature for a while. Remember what happened to your blood relations on the Boudicca so long ago.” She covered her absolute shock with both practice, and a quirk of the head. There was a brief pause and his next words were at a normal conversational level, “I have a bit of an interest in refit weapons programs, I once ran one - a long time ago, and a hella long way away. I shall watch your progress with interest.” He picked his flute up again and gave her a small salute with it, “Carry on, Ensign.” He left, his last subtle warning still ringing in her ears. He would watch her, would he? She was indeed her father’s daughter: In her experience, ‘subtle’ often meant ‘dangerous’. Loren watched his back as he left, her smile gone and her own blue eyes narrowed in thought as he worked his way through the crowd with the occasional word or laugh. She reached up and tapped her communicator when he’d wandered out of sight, and subvocalized a short message to her father using family channels. He would get the message and attachments with the flag that it was personnel, not business. Whoever he was, she’d have to play along for a time until she figured out just what in the hell was going on. She was a scientist, the only reason she could think that a warning might be justified was if she were being pulled into a pile of shite due to her family relations. Especially warnings that referenced her mother and sister, something very few knew about. It wouldn’t be the first time. Thoughts of her critical analysis of the Rebel Wind were pushed into a corner of her mind as she consciously made herself more approachable with a small smile and body language that was a lot more at ease... even as she began a progressive scan of the crowd with both her eyes, and her other special senses. She was her father’s daughter, and he’d taught her a great many things after her siblings had been murdered. Loren began slowly wandering near the tables, actively looking for a conversation she could join. (reply: any) (posted by Trout) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove - 17.11) Jaelle moved like a leaf on the wind at the party flowing easily though the groups of people. The black dress uniform of an intelligence officer made her stand out. Just do the sheer lack of others that matched. So it wasn't long before the Adrmial Aide made his way to her side. "So, you ever been to these fancy fleet parties before?" "Once or twice in the past." She spoke as she took a sip of cider choosing to keep the appearance of someone drinking but choosing to keep sober. "They can be a bit of bore, but there is always hope for chaos. One time, I went to one of these with my folks and a Lieutenant Junior Grade had a little too much and went face first through a table. That was kind of exciting." "We can only wait and see what excitement tonight will bring." Billy then paused a bit. "So is it true what they say about you?" "People say a lot about me, gotta be a bit more specific." "You know, you can kill someone just by winking at them." Billy said with a laugh and a smile, hopefully she knew he was joking. She chuckled, before taking a sip of her drink. "I'm good, I don't think I'm that good." She smiled. "And you might I ask? What brings you to my neck of the ballroom. (Reply Billy) (posted by Matthew Locke) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 17.19) "And you might I ask? What brings you to my neck of the ballroom." "Boredom" Billy said with a laugh. "Pure boredom." (reply Foxglove) "I've been going to these functions since I was like 5 or so, being dragged around by dad. He's the number two in the JAG corp right now, has been a flag officer since I was a kid, then with my gramps being a former CO of the Academy, you get dragged to a lot of parties you don't want to got to. At least this one I'm and officer for and is in a way for me." (reply Foxglove) "And you seem to be one of the more interesting people here, so I figured I'd say hello. Plus, I was hoping my girlfriend would be here, but shes MIA, been acting weird since yesterday, and I have no idea where the hell she is. Which is fine, I'm not her boss and it's not the first time shes gone all weird and sort of kept me out of the loop all day." (reply Foxglove) "Sorry, didn't mean to unload," he said with a soft smile. "Just a bit off my game. Anyways the realm reason I came over is every time I see you around the base or Mystique, when you're not working, you always seem to be on your own, figured you could use a friend. Or at least see if I can crack one part of the mystery that is Jaelle Foxglove." (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (Posted by WIll Banowsky (SPC Billy Alexander) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove - 1723) "Boredom" Billy said with a laugh. "Pure boredom." "It happens at these kind of events." She answered as she finished her drink. "I've been going to these functions since I was like 5 or so, being dragged around by dad. He's the number two in the JAG corp right now, has been a flag officer since I was a kid, then with my gramps being a former CO of the Academy, you get dragged to a lot of parties you don't want to got to. At least this one I'm and officer for and is in a way for me." "Let's just say, I've been to my fair share of events like this. Everyone pandering looking to get the best gossip. Making and breaking alliances. Everything and nothing happens at these events." She spoke softly as she looked around the room, at the people comming and going. "And you seem to be one of the more interesting people here, so I figured I'd say hello. Plus, I was hoping my girlfriend would be here, but shes MIA, been acting weird since yesterday, and I have no idea where the hell she is. Which is fine, I'm not her boss and it's not the first time shes gone all weird and sort of kept me out of the loop all day." "Sometimes women can be hard to read, as I tend to stay out of the drama myself. To may bad relationships already." It was a half truth while she had a few bad relationships in the past. She truly wanted not to be alone. To find someone who would understand her to help her walk down the hard path she was to follow. "Sorry, didn't mean to unload," he said with a soft smile. "Just a bit off my game. Anyways the realm reason I came over is every time I see you around the base or Mystique, when you're not working, you always seem to be on your own, figured you could use a friend. Or at least see if I can crack one part of the mystery that is Jaelle Foxglove." "And what mystery do you want to crack after all there are so many? As for friends, most can't come to terms with who or better yet what I am." It was a simple statement of fact. Jaelle had become more guarded due to a number of factors, so it wasn't easy to make friends, and those she did make she still kept at arms length. (reply Billy) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander- 1724) "And what mystery do you want to crack after all there are so many? As for friends, most can't come to terms with who or better yet what I am." "Well if they can't come to terms with who or what you are, then its probably best those folks aren't your friends." Billy said with a smile. "Friends take you as you are, you let them in, they you let them in. Mutual trust and all that Jazz." Billy paused again, "Oh look, candied bacon." Billy then got distracted by the waiter passing by with a tray of candied bacon and took a small plate and placed 4 of them on the plate. (reply Foxglove) "You should really taste some of the candied bacon." Billy said taking a bite. "They really knocked it out of the park." (reply Foxglove) "Sorry, I'm easily distracted by bacon. Anyways, so you say you have a lot of mysteries, well what is the easiest to crack?" (reply Foxglove) (Reply Foxglove) (posted by Will Banowsky (SPC Billy Alexander) (Starfleet HQ -- Ballroom--aACMO -- Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 1724) "Have you ever noticed how the dress uniform is somehow more comfortable than the the every day uniform? I feel like there is something in the fabric, especially the pants that make it somehow lighter and more breathable. It's odd but my dress pants are the most comfortable pair of pants I own." Quinna was not sure if she wanted to touch that comment as she tried looking at his pants and thinking… well that is not important. “ummm...Atleast we will suffer comfortable tonight.” (Reply Jaton, Ryelle, Trei) Quinna sat there and listened. She then turned to Trei. “How have you been. It has been a while since we talked.” (Reply Trei) "So, here we are I guess. Been about what, six weeks since we graduated from the academy, well with the exception of Jaton, but that is a whole separate issues." Ryelle paused for a moment. "Sorry Jaton I meant nothing by it, just don't know how else to explain your anomalous existence." Ryelle paused again, "Wow somehow I made it sound even worse. I'm so sorry." (reply Jaton) "But still for all of us, it's been a month since we've been assigned to Mars, plus few extra days, and well there was the trip on the Mystique. But how have you guys found it, being out and working and doing the stuff we were trained to do? How has the transition to Mars been?" Quinna was not sure if she wanted to get into those details yet. (Reply Trei, Jaton) Looking around as everyone talked, Quinna noticed more of the crew, “Hey, isn’t that Foxglove and Alexander?” Quinna asked as she pointed in the direction that they were in. “Perhaps we should invite them over. (Reply Ryelle, Trei, Jaton) (played by Kris) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - ENS SG Counselor Ariel Trei - 17.25) She heard Quinna ask how she has been. She said they have not talked in a while. That much is true. Quinna suggested that they offer Jaton and Foxglove to join them at their table. She thought it was a nice gesture but the choice will be theirs if they wish to do so. "I have been fine Quinna. How about you? If you wish to invite them over to our table, I give the honor to you to do so." (Reply Quinna) (Posted by Edward) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO Ensig SG JaelleFoxglove - 1727) Billy then got distracted by the waiter passing by with a tray of candied bacon and took a small plate and placed 4 of them on the plate. Jaelle cuckled at the sight of Billy's distraction me must of really loved candied bacon to be that easily taken by it. "You should really taste some of the candied bacon." Billy said taking a bite. "They really knocked it out of the park." "I've never cared for it. While I like candy and I like bacon. I just prefer them separate." Jaelle answered a smile on her face. "Sorry, I'm easily distracted by bacon. Anyways, so you say you have a lot of mysteries, well what is the easiest to crack?" Jaelle stopped and though a moment before replying. "You probably know that this is not my first time in the Federation." (Reply Billy) "I had my reasons the Federation was no longer the Federation that I fought for. So I surrendered my commission and left." (Reply Billy) "I'm sorry the tales of my life are rarely happy. I don't want to be a drag at a party." She responded trying to come up with the most light hearted of the events of her past but again her past was littered with secrets and tales that she could not just openly share. (Reply Billy) (posted by Matthew Locke) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 1728) "You probably know that this is not my first time in the Federation." "I've heard the rumors." He said with a slight smile. He had heard a lot of rumors, immortal murder fairy, clone, killer android, there were a lot of rumors. Though most people kept them to themselves, just in case. "I had my reasons the Federation was no longer the Federation that I fought for. So I surrendered my commission and left." "You weren't the only ones, a lot of good officers left, and those that remained, the good ones that is, well you could see the sadness in their eyes." "I'm sorry the tales of my life are rarely happy. I don't want to be a drag at a party." "Certainly there has to be something in your life that is happy memory." he said with a smile, "I mean, at least one single solitary moment that makes you smile every time you think about it," (reply Foxglove) "I don't mean to pry or sound pushy, I guess I just firmly believe that, no matter how bad things are, how much tragedy, there is always some light, some good memory that gives you hope." (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (posted by Will Banowsky (SPC Billy Alexander) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - CIO - Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove - 1731) "Certainly there has to be something in your life that is happy memory." he said with a smile, "I mean, at least one single solitary moment that makes you smile every time you think about it," "Fleeting moments of lives past." She spoke softly. It would only male matters more complicated if word got out that during her time away from the Federation she made a life as a singer. "I don't mean to pry or sound pushy, I guess I just firmly believe that, no matter how bad things are, how much tragedy, there is always some light, some good memory that gives you hope." "I hope to atone, Always have, always will." She thought for a moment then slowly a smile did cross her face. It was a weakness of hers, and it started with the birth of the Jackson twins. That for the birth of a new life on whatever starship she was on she would sew a stuff animal and leave it for the new born. It was her moment to live vicariously though the new parents. Hands as bloody as hers would never know the joy of being able to bring a new life into the universe. (reply Billy) (posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Republic - Some Random Personal Quarters - CIO Ensign(Sg) Jaelle Foxglove - 1733) She took the offered seat knowing there was a great deal on the mind of the man before her. Then like all good host he made the offer for some refreshments. "I'm sorry sir, but I think I will pass this time." "I see have a mission for you, Ensign, something I needed done but now, I am not in command and that mission has to be set aside. I am sorry I didn't tell you sooner.", he said as he took enough sip of tea. "All things come in time." She spoke softly calmly. The captain spoke and after a bit came down to the crux of the meeting. A deep dive into Adrmial Cayne, and to be finished in a few meger hours. Jaelle knew her night just got busy, more over that it just got dangerous. While Remae waited for a reply, he simply drank some more of his tea. "A deep dive on someone like Adrmial Cayne done with in your time frame. Will require me to make connections outside Federation regulations." (Reply K'tell) Jaelle took a deep breath. "When they find out they will come after me, what you are suggesting is treason at worse, at best it undermining a member of the Federation senior staff that answers directly to the president himself." (Reply K'tell) I want to make sure you understand, what you are asking me to do. You are asking me to use S31 contacts to accomplish an illegal deep dive on a Federation Senior Adrmial in good standing. This goes against everything in the Federation Charter, and will cost me greatly." She sighed deeply, "I will do this only because you asked... however...damn." The words left her she knew S31 would cost her dearly for there cooperation. When they found out it was her who did the deep dive Cayne would come for her and there would be blood. She waited for the Captain to dismiss her before she left knowing good and well this might be the last time they saw one another. (Reply K'tell) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 1733) "I hope to atone, Always have, always will." Billy paused and thought for a moment, "Atoning is good. Atoning is something that definitely a goal worth fighting for." (reply Foxglove) "Of course I'm not gonna ask what it is that you want to atone for, I've pried way to much already. But there has always been on truth I've known in life, and I think it applies to your hope for atonement." (reply Foxglove) "Life is always easier, burdens always lighter, when you have someone you trust that you can let in and help you out." (reply Foxglove) "Now I don't know who that is Foxglove, but, I'm sure there is someone out there that doesn't think you're a frightening murder fairy." Billy then playfully slapped her on the back. "Nothing worth having is easy, but everything is easier when you have some lifting you up." ~Now if I could just get Erin to figure that out.~ (reply Foxglove) (reply Foxglove) (posted by Will Banowsky (SPC Billy Alexander) (Starfleet HQ - Ballroom - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander - 1740) The group form mars were all seated around a table talking and hanging out. The party had picked up a little, but the absence of the CINC, at least to Billy, was noticeable. Still it was good to just unwind with people he would have been around normally. At that moment, there commbadges went off, it was a call from Admiral Bell. "Well that explains the bad feeling I've been having this whole time." (Reply Party People) "Grab some candied bacon for the road, because duty calls!" (reply Party People) (Starfleet Command - Starfleet Medical - (SPC) President Stiave Atremi, (SPC) Admiral Donovan Cayne, Admiral (SPC) Jana Bell and Captain Remae Ktell - 1755) Admiral Cayne walked back in to find that his plan to get Doctor Bracken to look at Remae was happening but not quite the way he had in mind. The meddlesome Counsellor was there while the Doctor was working on the Captain. His palm was against his face, "Not again.", said the Admiral, the phaser still attached to his hip. "We are doing what you asked us to do. Right after you shot him.", said the impertinent Counsellor but the Doctor was still working on Remae. "Security, report to the Medical Lab.", he said tapping his commbadge and then saying, "What a waste of a promising career.", he said with bitter condemnation for those around him. For a few moments, it seemed that Erin was stalling for time and the Admiral was closing on her, and the tell-tale sound of a transporter signal was beaming someone in. The three of them headed for the door leaving just the Admiral's in place but also, at the same time, in walked the President of the Federation. Stiave Atremi stood close by, she had just walked in as Jana was confronting Admiral Cayne. "Admiral Cayne.", Bell said simply as she noted the CINC was now holding his phaser. "Noone is coming to help, that call to Security was sent out but I made another one, I notified the entire staff of Mars, who are having a gathering right now, to get over here to rescue their Captain and to help out, you picked a bad night for this.", said the President. Jana was circling, her stance was dangerous, coiled and her underlying athleticism was showing. "It wasn't just me, Stiave, you are in this as much as I am.", he said, now sounding desperate, but he didn't wait for her reply, he fired at the President and the stun knocked her down, but Jana was already there with a sweeping kick that brought down the less than fit Admiral. He came down with a crash, phaser spinning off into the distance. Jana was on him, an open palm to the head made sure Cayne wasn't going anywhere and it was over. She was back on her feet in a slick move and then she turned to face the President, her hand brought back again, "President...", she said with no love lost. At that moment, crew of Mars entered into room, some had run, fast, still in their best dress uniforms and many came to a stop when they saw the scene. Stiave was on the ground, nursing her phaser burn. A medic was tending to her wound but Jana was less than sympathetic, “I can't relive you of your position, Madam President but, I suspect, Admiral Cayne will have a lot to say on that matter.", said Bell now at the side of Remae. The President was helped to a nearby bio-bed for her wound to be treated, but it seemed Remae was out for the count, Jana looked around again for Ensign Bracken or any other medical officer to take a look at him. Remae stirred, "That was one hell of a punch!", he said, and then Jana was embracing her husband, "How do you feel?", she asked, and after a moment he said, "Myself, and its been a long time coming.", he said laying back down and then he noticed the majority of his officers were in the room with him, he groaned as he looked up at the ceiling. Jana had come to rescue him, but not after, two of his Ensigns took in themselves to recover him. That must have been quite a story! Right now, there was no Starfleet Commander in Chief; there was a President who was going to be, at least, investigated for her part in this and all that meant there were questions to be answered, choices to be made, a new future to be made. "I'll go and talk to the Council, whoever is left, let them know.”, Jana said and she took one more look at her husband before heading out the door. There were mentions of getting a drink, going back to the party and general conversation. A few of them came to speak to Remae but most left him alone under the care of the medical staff who were present. “So, about the file…”, said Remae looking around, “Perhaps now we can find out what was on it?” (Reply from All Party-People) (Posted by Anthony Keen (SPCs Jana Bell, Donovan Cayne and Stiave Atremi)) (Starfleet HQ -- Ballroom -- aACMO Ensign S.G. Quinna Solice -- 1757) Quinna was sitting at the table drinking coffee. She was exhausted and was trying to do anything she could to stay awake. Her head came us as the group communicators went off. “What the … “ Quinna was a bit confused with the communication about saving the captain, but stood then ran out with the others. The scene was chaotic. The dots that she could put together was the fact that medical attention was needed all around. “I can't relive you of your position, Madam President but, I suspect, Admiral Cayne will have a lot to say on that matter.", said Bell now at the side of Remae. The scene was chaotic. The dots that she could put together was the fact that medical attention was needed all around. Looking around, she noticed there were medics and not doctors. She turned to those with her, “I am confused, but I will go look after the president.” Quinna moved to the president and worked with the medics to treat her wounds. “Madam President, how does those wounds feel now?” (Reply President Stiave Atremi) “Good,” Quinna replied. She then nodded to the medics. They really did not need her there. She stepped away and moved toward the Captain. “So, about the file…”, said Remae looking around, “Perhaps now we can find out what was on it?” “Sir, can give us a clue what just happened here?” Quinna wondered if she was the only one that did not know all that was going on. (Reply Captain Ramae) (Reply from All Party-People) (Played by Kris) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical, Corridor - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander -1758) The group had arrived at the room at Starfleet medical where Remae was on a bio bed recovering, the CINC was knocked out on the floor, and the President had been shot. ~Holy Hell, what the hell is going on.~ Looking at the chaos and seeing how crowded the room, Billy ushered everyone but Dr. Kyros and Quinna out of the room. There were wounded in there and they didn't need a bunch of onlookers gawking at what was going on. As he stood against the wall, he just felt defeated. So much politics, so much insanity. "Well this sure put a damper on my day." (reply Jaton, Sevant, Trei, Foxglove) (reply party people) (posted by Will Banowsky (SPC Billy Alexander) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical - R&R/W&P, Ens. T'Loren Sevant -1759) ~I think I'm watching a coup.~ Loren thought, near to frozen, as she looked at the chaos which was only just starting to come under control. She had her PADD recording everything, she had since that strange Admiral had spoken with her, and now she was glad - because what she was seeing could so easily be the start of something.... wrong. Very, very wrong. "I'll go and talk to the Council, whoever is left, let them know.” said one Admiral, who was very touchy-feely with the only other Officer that T'Loren knew by sight - Ramae Ktell. She watched, Eagle-Eyed, as someone who she tentatively identified as the President of the Federation was treated for phaser burns. And yet, for all that, the President was very nearly being treated as a prisoner. Yes, she was almost certainly watching a coup. And as a Starfleet Officer... She had to think, and she needed room to do it. It was almost a blessing when some random officer started ushering them away. She was certain that was to cover up further evidence, but there was no good way in which to refuse without calling attention to herself. That would simply not do. "Well this sure put a damper on my day." T'Loren half turned and looked at the officer, another she didn't really know, as if he'd grown a third arm and second penis - this had put a DAMPER in his DAY?! She sent off another communique, this one marked as an emergency, and hoped to god it would be seen in time. "The attempted assassination of our President has put a damper. On your day." she said flatly. "The injury of two other flag officers has... ruined your night? Good God man, get your priorities straight." She said nothing more along that vein, she didn't want her loyalties called into question. Not here, unarmed and surrounded by people she didn't know. That would come later, she was sure. "There should be armies of security here, where are they? Why are we, party-goers, the only officers of any note present?" She quirked an eyebrow and looked around. (reply: any) (posted by Trout) (Earth-Napa Valley- Home of Dale Bracken - FCSO Lt. JG Trip Williams and SPC Civilian Liaison Ashyln Jones - 18:00) Dale sat back in the warm farmhouse kitchen, the expanse of the rolling landscape unfolding behind her. She picked up the newly refilled glass of deep red wine, gently tilting it and watching as the setting sun set it’s colour ablaze. She’d chatted with Ashlyn for a while now, and the empty bottle had eased their introductions. Dale found her to be truly her father’s daughter. She carried the Bracken genetics of course, her and Ailynn could be sisters, but her mind, and her mannerisms were truly Ashalan’s. She laughed, sipping her glass. “And so there we were. In the middle of the Presidents Hall. Everyone is in full...Dress Uniform, medals and all. In he strolls. Stark...naked and says...out loud...to the entire hall…” She laughed, Ashlyn joining in before even hearing the ending. “I’m sorry Miss Dale...I seem to have had some trouble with the ducks.” I nearly wet myself, I swear.” “Ummm, I’m pretty sure I was still wearing my pants. And I was a child, and it was the second time I had been attacked by ducks in my life. They ripped off my shirt. Duck’s are the worst. I remember being grounded for two weeks after that.” Dale laughed warmly, and looked at Ashlyn. “Let that be a lesson. Never turn your back on ducks.” Ashlyn giggled, a rosy hue inflaming her cheeks. “So is everyone having a lovely evening?” Dale smiled at Trip. Holding her hand out at the empty chair at the table. “We are now, but you have some catching up. You’ll be happy to know that Ash has lovely nimble fingers. She made the saltimbocca, and the pasta for the carbonara.” “Homemade pasta, was I gone that long?” Trip then went to the table and sat down. Ashlyn stood up, and picked up the bottle that was in the centre of the table, and poured Trip a sizeable glass. “I had a good tutor.” She sat down, passing it over. “I can’t believe I was so worried.” “I told you, your mom, err, Dale, is the best.” Ash looked at Trip, seeing into his eyes. “What is it?” “I have to tell them. The guilt is, it’s weighing me down. I don’t want them to find out from someone else, I don’t want to hurt them, I can’t lie to them. Not Sy, not Lynn, not Aimee. It’s not my secret to tell, Dale, but I owe you so much, that I thought it was my duty to fabricate this, ruse. Because Ash deserves, has the right, to know her birth mother….But I just, I can keep it from the world, but not them. Not the two most important women in my life that are not my mother.” Dale smiled gently as she placed the serving platters on the table. “Dig in kids.” She passed the spoons over to Trip to assist, as she sat back in her chair, and picked up her glass once more; the embers of the fire emblazoning in reflections in her liquid-filled eyes. “And now…” She spoke, serving herself now that the others had food aplenty on their plates “...Your lessons are complete.” “Always the teacher…” Trip said sarcastically, “How did grandpa not scoop you up for the academy…” “Not my gig. I prefer one to one. Every droplet raises the ocean.” It seemed that the evening had suddenly taken a swerve. Dale didn’t mind, and Ashlyn, it seemed, was the quiet type, who sat back and listened, didn’t interject with asinine questions. ~clever girl~ Dale thought. She spoke to both Ashlyn and Trip. “The most important thing about a secret isn’t who you can’t tell. That parts easy.” She motioned randomly in the air. “It’s who you can. James. Have you ever wondered why your parents and I are so close?” “No, I never did.” “Sure, we lived next to each other, but that was not by accident. Your parents and I have known each other for years. Trusted each other beyond comprehension. We knew what was happening to the Federation; and we fought it, with every atom that we had. Ultimately we failed, or rather, we didn’t succeed as well as we could have.” “And you kept the fact that my parents knew I was cage fighting secret from me, the four of you kept Ailynn’s drug use secret. Among other secrets. Yes I know….but secrets hurt. The little lies we tell to keep our loved ones safe.” “And that is why we very carefully managed who knew and who could help. Trip, Ashlyn, we are on the cusp now, things are going to change. Do you think that i’ve been wittering at you all these years because I enjoy how my voice sounds? Strap yourself in pilot. Know with whom who you can share the things that you shouldn’t know.” “When I get back to Mars, I’m telling Lynn and Sy. I can’t keep this from them, and I trust them. And you should tell Aimee. I can keep this secret to protect Ash, but I can’t lie to those two. I’m sorry Ash.” Ashlyn lifted her head, concerned, but she looked, not just with her eyes, but with her brain, accented by her heart, attenuated by her gut reaction. She rested her head and said nothing, but listened carefully. Her mother was an enigma, playful one minute, deeply serious the next, it was disarming. It was odd, her life was literally being discussed in front of her, but her mother’s casual competence, and Trips’ devotion, she felt comforted. More so now, in this ancient kitchen, than she ever had. Dale drew a breath, tightening her eyes slightly, “You must do what you think is right...of course.” a half smile swum across her eyes. ~He was learning.~ “It would destroy me if I didn’t. Ash you don’t need to be there when I tell them.” Dale watched passively, very careful conversations with the Williams’ and other legacy families paramount in her mind. She had played her part, to a tee, below par she’d like to think, other conversations, in other parts of the galaxy was now happening. Dale knew her time was up, as did others, a very careful movement to carefully manipulate things, a hint here, a word there, an argument elsewhere... “It was my idea anyways.” Dale nodded, “I know. It’s perhaps for the best. Ashlyn, the next few weeks are going to be scary. Trust…”She turned to Trip, nodding, as if giving her consent. “You know what to do, and who to trust.” "I do think it best Ash, if you have any leave, spend a week here. With Dale, just the two of you." There was a second, a selfish lonely second that she was tempted to hide in this beautiful kitchen, and hide there for the rest of her days. She almost felt the two paths of her life open up in front of her. She snapped her head round to Trip. “We go back. I’m not afraid.” "Oh, I don't think you should stay for your safety," he chuckled. "You should stay to bond." Dale watched the torment of the decision in her daughter. She could see the desperate desire to just hide, and reconnect, however, she was Ashalan’s daughter, she could almost sense the burning, driven necessity to go forward. “Mum?” Dale smiled nodding. Sparing the discussion, Ashlyn’s mind was made up; and was set in stone now. Ashalan had the same hint about the eyes the last time Dale had ever seen him alive. "So what did you decide? Am I flying home solo tomorrow?" Dale looked at Ashlyn, seeing the defiance that had deeply aroused her all those years ago with her father. Neither of them needed to speak, worlds...no...galaxies of inane conversation passed between them. Ashlyn held Dale’s glance, and lifted and tilted her jaw, proud, in her defiance. Dale turned to Trip and shrugged, amused. “Guessing she’s headed back with you hon’” "Shame. I'd love to spend a week here." Trip then turned to Dale, "you still have your movie collection?" Dale laughed, “ I….Got a couple kicking about.” "Dale introduced me to the old fun B movies when I stayed Here as a ten Year Old. I fell in love with them." “Shut up!” Ashlyn laughed, and swung her attention to Trip. “Ooh Bracken blood! Just like that thing in the scene with that bloke in mummy’s from medros II” "I think its more like the plot from Abbot and Costello's robot clones invade Tellar Prime.“ Dale laughed. “Get some counselling Williams. We all know it was ‘Assault on Atraxis 4’ At that moment the door opened, a young officer walked in a yellow uniform, Ensign JG pips. She was pretty, had a sense of familiarity about her. She was young, about Trip’s age. “Sorry for crashing the party sir,” the woman said with a smile. “Just got back from Aerospace Command, brought you the files you asked for.” “It’s quite alright Ronnie, have a seat and join us.” She said motioning for the young officer to sit, “Trip, Ashlyn, this is my assistant, Ensign Veronica Winters, though we just call her Ronnie. She graduated with you Trip, but I don’t know if you had very many classes together, she majored in Flight Ops, but on the tactical side of things. She is currently my assistant.” Dale had been working at Aerospace command as a Captain with a desk job for the last year. Ronnie looked at the two, “Trip and Ashlyn? Nice to meet you.” She said waving at them as she sat down. ~Oh my gosh, its them, its really them~ Ronnie thought to herself. “Are you alright there Ronnie,” Trip said with a smile. “You seem a little star struck.” “Sorry” she said blushing. “Captain Bracken just talks a lot about the both of you. Her favorite little pain in the rear and her long lost daughter, it’s all I’ve heard about for the last week. Not to mention you are one of the first two from our class to to get promoted to Lieutenant JG, you’ve got a bit of a buzz at Aerospace Command right now Lieutenant.” Dale smiled and passed over a serving of the carbonara and saltimbocca. "Eat." She turned to Trip "bit of hero worship" she teased slightly in a whimsical sing- song voice. “It’s quite alright, Ronnie, and at this table you can call me Trip.” Ashlyn sat back in her chair, content. She held the glass of merlot in her lap, and sighed gently. The feeling of acceptance swallowed her, helped along by a meal to die for and the added wine. She traded conversation with Ronnie, finding her nature easy to get on with. Before the conversation could get much further when they were interrupted by Trips commbadge. =/\=1st Fighter Wing to Lieutenant Trip Williams=/\= Trip looked at Dale curious if she knew what was going on. She did not. “Williams here, go ahead.” =/\=We have a situation at Starfleet HQ, Fighter squadrons are scrambling for patrol.=/\= “I’m currently on Earth, Napa Valley, with my fighter, I can be airborne in minutes..” =/\=Affirmative. Ensign Ravok is also being notified.=/\= “Understood, Williams out.” Trip stood up, “If you’ll excuse me, I think I need to step out for a moment. Ash nodded, “okay.” Trip then looked at “Ronnie, Dale said you were flight ops. Are you qualified as a flight officer.” “Affirmative.” Ronnie said excitedly. “Good, you’re coming with me on this one. Don’t want to go solo.” “Aye sir.” Ronnie said as she stood up, Turning to Dale and Ash he sighed, “Sorry about breaking up the fun, Duty calls.” As he left for some reason he paused behind the seated Ash and kissed the top of her head. ~Why did I just do that? Did I really just kiss Ash on the top of the head?~ He thought to himself as he walked out the house. Ash didn’t register the kiss on the top of her head. Dale lifted a glance from her glass, but also said nothing. Within moments both he and Ronnie were in the fighter and began to lift off. “Never a dull day huh,” he said to Ronnie as the fighter then began its intercept course and zoomed out of sight. As Trip and Ronnie left the room. Ash switched chairs over to sit next to her mother. She smiled gently as the two pilots quickly left the house. She turned to Dale and asked quietly. “Is it always like this? Life in the fleet I mean, life changing at a moment's notice, not knowing what's around the next corner?” Dale smiled, and nodded. “Never the same moment twice.” (reply none) (posted by Will and Mark(SPC Ashlyn Jones) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical, Corridor - CIO - Ensign SG Jaelle Foxglove -1801) Then there was a call to action, Jaelle had been waiting for it. That someway, somehow forces behind the scenes would give up the ghost. As soon as the call went out Jaelle bolted with little heed or care of her dress uniform it could be replaced. The medical corridor wasn't that far and by the time the shuttle was prepped and underway she could of ran the distance, and with the president involved there would be no teleporters everything went under lock down and things like teleporters would only be used by a armed reactionary force under the direct command of the president, the CNIC, or the Chief of Security. She moved with a speed and grace honed to a razers edge. It wasn't long before she entered the medical corridor and quickly assessed the situation. Captain K'tell was on a biobed apparently recovering from a procedure, of some kind. Adrmial Cayne was on the ground clearly some one punched his night-night card for him and he was taking a break from existence. The President had been shot but was being tended and was not in a life or death status. "Adrmial Bell." Jaelle spoke stepping up to Mars commander. "I think you should have this." As Jaelle surrendered a small padd she had kept tucked safely away. "That PADD details the delivery of the explosive and detonation of the incident that happened in San Francisco. It is the complete unredacted investigation that happened after the fact that was deemed inconclusive." She took a breath to let the weight of what she carried sink in. "I think after reading it you will agree that the findings were more than sufficient to detail the entire event and those involved." (Reply any) She was happy that Adrmial Cayne still slumbered. The only way Jaelle got that information was that she hacked though his personal firewall and accessed his command database. Spending over 24 hours in a deep dive that should of taken months was tiring, not to mention, illegal. (Reply any) Jaelle continued. "Also upon following up on the personnel involved with the investigation. Each was murdered under orders from Adrmial Cayne." She looked over to the President and her prone body. "While there is evidence to link the president to these events that evidence is circumstantial at best." (Reply Bell, Any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (Starfleet HQ - Starfleet Medical - R&R/W&P, Ens. T'Loren Sevant - 1830) [Are you f*cking crazy?!] Loren’s eyeballs clicked to the side as she looked at the assembled officers.She subvocalized again, ‘It might sound it, but I’m not. Have you looked at the data?’ [Yes, but it can’t be...] ‘Then why is there no alarm? Why is the president under heavy guard without anyone else the wiser? I have to go, a couple people are looking at me funny as I flap my lips. Be ready for my call.’ She cut the line and looked down at her PADD again. The link had been created, that had been the easy part. The hard part was what she was trusting her Dept XO to handle - hacking secure servers and preparing for the worst. She had taken part in some of the conversations that had spontaneously broken out, but only in a minimal fashion. She had too many things to do. The only reason she’d been able to get this far was a communicator that had been installed right against her middle ear, one of the newer and more useful things to come out of Starfleet R&D in the past few years. Her communicator couldn't be taken from her without minor surgery, and it allowed her to subvocalize commands. Vibrations tended to travel well along the skeletal system. One of the officers, an Admiral’s Aide, was making quite the show of being frustrated as he just sat here, with the rest of them, and shot the proverbial shite. His position and attitude were marking him as incredibly suspicious - the fact that he seemed genuinely frustrated to her telepathic senses just meant he’d received training. She’d gotten the same training as a child, she knew just how effective it could be. “I just need to calm down, this is ridiculous. What next? Huh, what else is gonnna just fall in our laps?” And just then, someone beamed in and fell to the floor. T’Loren’s eyes narrowed even further, she smelled a code word, something said to make said event happen. Perhaps a planned distraction? It was effective enough. She listened closely, recording every word, as various people spoke about a possible rogue agent and then they started talking about chasing down this ‘rogue’ officer. She said absolutely nothing as the bulk of then ran off for the Runabout they’d used to come to Earth. “That. Is. Enough.” T’Loren said in a voice of granite. Not caring who heard among those who had stayed behind. “This is not acceptable.” She tapped her ear, “Now!” Runabouts were not the fastest way to Mars, that distinction belonged to transporters. She’d had half an hour, with her relative position in the Refit corps, to turn a couple of the phaser satellites of the MDP into a link of transport relays that bypassed the standard emergency relays. Loren had no confidence, if she’d used those, that she would end up where she wanted, The transporter gripped her, and a moment later she was in the Deck 1 transporter room of the Rebel Wind - the only place in the entire Universe that she could be sure she was relatively safe. Her XO, Lt. Mick, was looking at her ashed-faced. But he was armed, and he had several more with her. “Is it....” “They’re trying to pull attention away by chasing down a supposed rogue officer, who was nowhere near the President or Fleet CO at the time of the incident.” She stepped down from the pad and was handed a phaser and belt. She strapped it on as the XO began passing orders to the refit crew on the Rebel Wind. First thing first, though. “Yellow Alert,” she said. “Shields up.” She turned to Mick, “Did you get the access?” “... yes.” He handed her a PADD. She took it gravely and looked at him. “Here we go.” She took a deep breath and tapped a button on the PADD, which opened up emergency channels to the entire Sol system. “This is Ensign Sevant, temporary commander of the USS Rebel Wind. The President has been attacked, along with two fleet officers. There is a probable military coup in progress. I request and demand the 1st standing fleet intervene as quickly as possible, while thing loyal officers of Starfleet still on the MDP stand ready. Those at Mars should arm and be ready to take the President back by force, if necessary. I am forwarding all files and recordings of the past 45 minutes in a subchannel attached to this emergency communique.” She paused, “This message will repeat every three minutes.” Loren cut the channel and tossed the PADD back to the XO. He looked at her, even more pale than when she’d first beamed back aboard. “We’re not combat capable. The shields are... barely stronger than navigational shields.” “I know.” she said quietly as they left the transporter room. “It will have to do - we can die now, if necessary, the message is out.” (reply, any on Mars or Earth) (posted by Trout) (Mars Facility- Fighter Wing Command Complex – Pilot – Ensign – Ire Williams - 1832) He knew that Trip had told him not to do work until the next day but as he was the highest-ranking officer in the Wing at this moment on Mars and he wanted to make sure that everything was okay. Especially as he was going to have dinner with Greta and the last thing he needed was to get interrupted because he had for gotten to check something. He stepped into the fighter wings command centre and paused by the Ensign who was at the officer of the watch’s console. “How is everything?” The OOW looked up at him and smiled. “Everything is quiet here sir.” Ire shook his head slightly. “You know that using that word when nothing is happening means that everything will go crazy don’t you?” “I did not take you for a superstitious man Sir?” Ire shrugged. “Not everything can be explained by science.” He looked around quiet room before nodding to the OOW and heading for the door. =^=This is Ensign Sevant, temporary commander of the USS Rebel Wind. The President has been attacked, along with two fleet officers. There is a probable military coup in progress. I request and demand the 1st standing fleet intervene as quickly as possible, while thing loyal officers of Starfleet still on the MDP stand ready. Those at Mars should arm and be ready to take the President back by force, if necessary. I am forwarding all files and recordings of the past 45 minutes in a subchannel attached to this emergency communique.... This message will repeat every three minutes.=^= Ire paused in mid step his immediate feeling was to head to his fighter at a run and blast into orbit but he was the senior fighter wing officer on Mars and he was needed to coordinate the defence not go zooming around in his fighter. ~Ow to hell with it~ He turned and gave the OOW an unimpressed look who looked back innocently at him. “It was not me sir.” Ire was beside him in a split second. ~Okay steady. Let’s take this at face value. We…. I need to get Mar’s Defence perimeter reinforced. I could launch everything, but I don’t know what we are up against. Is scrambling the whole wing the right thing to do. Should I do a step-up approach. I just don’t have much information about what we are facing~ He looked at the large screen on the wall which showed the status of the system and nodded to himself. ~Get the Dragons up and then rest on alert launch. If it all goes pear shaped, then I can send the others up to support~ He took a deep breath to calms his nerves and get his mind in order. “Okay lest get the Red Dragon up…..” =^=This is Lieutenant Sekal. Red alert, I repeat red alert. All fighter wings to mobilize immediately for planetary defense and take up position in orbit. Medical facilities to be mobilized. Security and tactical forces are to arm and await further orders. All other departments are to mobilize and stand by for support. This is not a drill=^= He tapped his commbadge. “This is the First Fighter Wing are responding.” He looked at the people in the command room. “Okay everyone. We are at Red Alert. Something has happened on earth and maybe heading this way. We are Mar’s first line of defence so stay calm and do your duty and we will get through this.” It was not the best speech he had ever done but this was not the time to do self-reflection. “We will scramble the Red Dragons to support the Void Haunters. The White Skulls and the Warbirds will be on alert one and two respectively.” He could feel the tension in the room lessen slightly as people began working. He tapped his comm badge. “FWCC to Red Dragons I am sending you up to set up a perimeter defence around Mars and I will be pulling some of the Void Haunters back to support you. You will have the White Skulls and the Warbirds on alert in case they are needed. I don’t have any new information for you, but I will keep you up to date when I get anything.” (Reply Dezza) “FWCC to White Skulls and Warbirds you are alert one and two, respectively. Get your squadrons ready for immediate alert launch. I need you ready in case the Void Haunters and Red Dragons need back up.” His mind drifted to Greta as he imagined her sprinting to her squadron. ~Not now she’s a professional and can look after herself~ (Reply Smith, who’s in charge of Warbirds) ~Okay what have I missed…… Crap SARs~ “FWCC to Honey Badger I need your squadron on immediate launch in case we get a SARs call.” (Reply Frost) “FWCC to Fighter Operations Control.” (Reply Wallis) “I am scrambling the Red Dragon squadron. They need priority surface to orbit clearance. I also have the White Skulls, Warbirds and Honey Badgers on alert launch. I will also be pulling some of the Void Haunters back into support the Red Dragons.” (Reply Wallis) “FWCC to Void Dragons.” =^=This is Void One=^= “I have scrambled the Red Dragons up to help you set up a perimeter support them as much as you can without compromising the systems defence.” =^=Void One copies=^= “Williams to Sonnlo.” =^=Sonnlo here=^= “Get Lucky Thirteen ready for launch. I am not expecting to go up, but this situation is going sideways fast.” =^=Understood=^= He scanned his mind making sure that he had not forgot anything before he stepped over to the communication’s crewman. “What the comm traffic like?” The crewman winced. “Its crazy out there everyone is talking and over lapping. We are lucky that we have dedicated comm channels with the squadrons and Fighter Operations Control.” Ire nodded. “I need you to try and punch a message through this mess to Lieutenant Williams and Ensign Ravok who are both on earth. Give them a status and situation update. Also ask about their status and intentions and if they want any assistance from us. Use our secure frequency I don’t know how compromised the comm system might be.” “Yes, sir I will try my best.” Ire nodded and stepped back to the OOW looked up from his console. “Well sir it is not a quiet evening. That is for sure.” “That is so true.” Ire looked back at the main screen as icons of the squadron readiness status and positions appeared. ~Thanks Trip and Ravok, what a time to go for leave~ (Reply Dezza, Smith, Warbird One, Frost, Williams, Ravok, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Mars Facility- Fighter Wing Command Complex – Pilot – Ensign – Ire Williams - 1832) He knew that Trip had told him not to do work until the next day but as he was the highest-ranking officer in the Wing at this moment on Mars and he wanted to make sure that everything was okay. Especially as he was going to have dinner with Greta and the last thing he needed was to get interrupted because he had for gotten to check something. He stepped into the fighter wings command centre and paused by the Ensign who was at the officer of the watch’s console. “How is everything?” The OOW looked up at him and smiled. “Everything is quiet here sir.” Ire shook his head slightly. “You know that using that word when nothing is happening means that everything will go crazy don’t you?” “I did not take you for a superstitious man Sir?” Ire shrugged. “Not everything can be explained by science.” He looked around quiet room before nodding to the OOW and heading for the door. =^=This is Ensign Sevant, temporary commander of the USS Rebel Wind. The President has been attacked, along with two fleet officers. There is a probable military coup in progress. I request and demand the 1st standing fleet intervene as quickly as possible, while thing loyal officers of Starfleet still on the MDP stand ready. Those at Mars should arm and be ready to take the President back by force, if necessary. I am forwarding all files and recordings of the past 45 minutes in a subchannel attached to this emergency communique.... This message will repeat every three minutes.=^= Ire paused in mid step his immediate feeling was to head to his fighter at a run and blast into orbit but he was the senior fighter wing officer on Mars and he was needed to coordinate the defence not go zooming around in his fighter. ~Ow to hell with it~ He turned and gave the OOW an unimpressed look who looked back innocently at him. “It was not me sir.” Ire was beside him in a split second. ~Okay steady. Let’s take this at face value. We…. I need to get Mar’s Defence perimeter reinforced. I could launch everything, but I don’t know what we are up against. Is scrambling the whole wing the right thing to do. Should I do a step-up approach. I just don’t have much information about what we are facing~ He looked at the large screen on the wall which showed the status of the system and nodded to himself. ~Get the Dragons up and then rest on alert launch. If it all goes pear shaped, then I can send the others up to support~ He took a deep breath to calms his nerves and get his mind in order. “Okay lest get the Red Dragon up…..” =^=This is Lieutenant Sekal. Red alert, I repeat red alert. All fighter wings to mobilize immediately for planetary defence and take up position in orbit. Medical facilities to be mobilized. Security and tactical forces are to arm and await further orders. All other departments are to mobilize and stand by for support. This is not a drill=^= He tapped his commbadge. “This is the First Fighter Wing are responding.” "Acknowledged. The fighter wings are to maintain a defensive position only. I repeat, defensive positions only until the alert status is reviewed. Orders are to fire only if fired upon until a clear attack MOO is given. Acknowledge receipt of this order." “First Fighter Wing copies all.” He looked at the people in the command room. “Okay everyone. We are at Red Alert. Something has happened on earth and maybe heading this way. We are Mar’s first line of defence so stay calm and do your duty and we will get through this.” It was not the best speech he had ever done but this was not the time to do self-reflection. “We will scramble the Red Dragons to support the Void Haunters. The White Skulls and the Warbirds will be on alert one and two respectively.” He could feel the tension in the room lessen slightly as people began working. He tapped his comm badge. “FWCC to Red Dragons I am sending you up to set up a perimeter defence around Mars and I will be pulling some of the Void Haunters back to support you. You will have the White Skulls and the Warbirds on alert in case they are needed. The rules of engament at this time is fire only if fired upon. I don’t have any new information for you, but I will keep you up to date when I get anything.” (Reply Dezza) “FWCC to White Skulls and Warbirds you are alert one and two, respectively. Get your squadrons ready for immediate alert launch. I need you ready in case the Void Haunters and Red Dragons need back up.” His mind drifted to Greta as he imagined her sprinting to her squadron. ~Not now she’s a professional and can look after herself~ (Reply Smith, who’s in charge of Warbirds) ~Okay what have I missed…… Crap Mars Orbital~ “FWCC to Fighter Operations Control.” (Reply Wallis) “I am scrambling the Red Dragon squadron. They need priority surface to orbit clearance. I also have the White Skulls, Warbirds and Honey Badgers on alert launch. I will also be pulling some of the Void Haunters back into support the Red Dragons. ” (Reply Wallis) “FWCC to Void Dragons.” =^=This is Void One=^= “I have scrambled the Red Dragons up to help you set up a perimeter support them as much as you can without compromising the systems defence.The rules of engament at this time is fire only if fired upon” =^=Void One copies=^= “Williams to Sonnlo.” =^=Sonnlo here=^= “Get Lucky Thirteen ready for launch. I am not expecting to go up, but this situation is going sideways fast.” =^=Understood=^= He scanned his mind making sure that he had not forgot anything before he stepped over to the communication’s crewman. “What the comm traffic like?” The crewman winced. “Its crazy out there everyone is talking and over lapping. We are lucky that we have dedicated comm channels with the squadrons and Fighter Operations Control.” Ire nodded. “I need you to try and punch a message through this mess to Lieutenant Williams and Ensign Ravok who are both on earth. Give them a status and situation update. Also ask about their status and intentions and if they want any assistance from us. Use our secure frequency I don’t know how compromised the comm system might be.” “Yes, sir I will try my best.” Ire nodded and stepped back to the OOW looked up from his console. “Well sir it is not a quiet evening. That is for sure.” “That is so true.” Ire looked back at the main screen as icons of the squadron readiness status and positions appeared. ~Thanks Trip and Ravok, what a time to go for leave~ (Reply Dezza, Smith, Warbird One, Williams, Ravok, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Earth - Outside StarFleet Medical HQ - ACMO Ensign (sg) Erin Cortez - 1834) Walking towards the shuttle, Erin rubbed her forehead. Ever since the surgery, she couldn’t shake what felt like an itch on the inside of her skull. Putting it down to the stress of getting into Starfleet, assisting Ailynn and getting back out, she kept walking. Passing a couple of security officers, she nodded a simple hello to them as she rounded a corner and saw both the Evangeline and the shuttle that had brought her and Bracken to Earth. Looking towards the back of the shuttle, she saw the red headed woman and smiled as a thought entered her mind. ~shame for her~ Erin stopped suddenly and took a breath. “It’s been a long day. Didn’t feel like schmoozing with the brass. I just needed to sit somewhere quiet." She stated, simply if not a little aloof. Sitting down in the back of the shuttle, Erin leant her head against the cool metal of the bulk head and closed her eyes again. Something wasn’t right and she couldn’t put her finger on it. Rubbing her forehead, she took several deep breaths and tried to relax. Erin tried to open her eyes. Finding she couldn’t, panic hit her like a wave. It was then she knew. She knew what was wrong instantly. As she opened her eyes, she saw herself stand, walk towards Trinity and smile. .:Oh no…. No…. for god sake woman run :. She saw her head tilt slightly as she watched Trinity realise something wasn’t right. Then, her hand, which had somehow picked up some piece of equipment came flashing into view, connecting with the jaw of the young pilot, knocking her to the floor of the shuttle and unconscious. .: STOP :. The reflection she saw in the console, that vision of herself holding the thing that had assaulted the pilot, her face smirking and her own voice, it was her voice but not her. “Now you get it don’t you, young lady. You see what this is. You know what has happened. You can’t do a damn thing about this.” .: no…. Please…. I can’t…. Why are you doing this? :. Her face lit up as her own laugh escaped her mouth. It was her laugh but twisted, wrong and had an edge of pure evil attached to it. “Oh, because i can my dear. Now, what’s say you shut the hell up in there and let me do what i have been trying to do for all these long years.” .: You won’t get far. There’s a ton of starfleet officers all around us. :. “Oh but you forget. I am you. I am the poor, whimpering little Ensign who just wants to go back home because she feels ill.” Reaching to her own chest, she took off her combadge, walked back to trinity and took off hers and, with a smile in her face that she knew was not hers, walked outside and round one side of the shuttle. Lying on the floor in a crumpled heap, a large bruise on her face and a little smear of blood on her hair line was Ailynn. Smiling down at the unconscious form, Erin screamed in her mind as she watched herself put the combadges in the unconscious Doctor's hand. .: Oh …. I am so so sorry…. I couldn't stop him… :. "Now shut up in there you whining little woman. I won't leave her here, if that is what it takes to shut you up." .: she… I… hurt her… you bas…. :. She looked up, saw her reflection in the console as her finger was raised to her mouth, "Shush now. Computer." The console beeped a response, "Transport the good doctor to the nearest gathering of Starfleet officers. " =/\= Acknowledged =/\= Ailynn's body disappeared in a transport beam and the man now in control of her body sat down at the flight controls, and locked down the shuttle. (Reply any at the party.) (Posted by Jackie) (Mars Base, Security Services, CSec Office - SCO, Ens(sg) Carson Peters - 1834) A break in the case is what was needed now, he'd sent Vax & Hammons off to go and get that through an interrogation with their suspects once they were able too. Forensics were doing there thing and Medical had found some sort of chip in the dead girls arm, that peice of evidence was under armed guard waiting to be retrieved by himself personally. For now though, he was having a breather and a spot of lunch, alone in the quiet of his office when an emergency communication burst through. =^=This is Ensign Sevant, temporary commander of the USS Rebel Wind. The President has been attacked, along with two fleet officers. There is a probable military coup in progress. I request and demand the 1st standing fleet intervene as quickly as possible, while thing loyal officers of Starfleet still on the MDP stand ready. Those at Mars should arm and be ready to take the President back by force, if necessary. I am forwarding all files and recordings of the past 45 minutes in a subchannel attached to this emergency communique.=^= There was a pause and then =^=This message will repeat every three minutes.=^= "What in the blazes." Carson said out-loud as he stood up and spilling his drink all over the desk. He began to panic for a second about not being on Earth, ready to defend and protect his colleagues but had to push it out of his mind. ~There's time to think on that later.~ He exited his office and began running down the corridor to the nearest turbolift so he could get to the bases command centre. "Computer who's in command of Mars Base?" [Lieutenant Sekal is the highest ranking officer currently on the base] ~Super~ He tapped his comm. badge, "Peters to Sekal, something's happening on Mars. I'm heading to the command centre and I'm putting Mars into full lockdown." (Reply Sekal w/room for more) Once the conversation had finished, Carson made the necessary calls to his Security leads to place the base in lockdown. Noone in, Noone out unless authorised by himself or the Lieutenant. He needed to get to the command centre and find out what was going on. (Reply any, Sekal) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Starfleet HQ - Corridor - Admiral's Aide, Ensign JG Billy Alexander and CMO Ensign SG Ailynn Bracken - 1835) Billy had been waiting outside the corridor to the room where Remae was recovering. Med Staff was attending to his wounds. The rest of the group were just waiting, to talk to him, to see him, but also because of the ramifications of what happened. “Well, this is just peachy keen,” Billy said frustrated. They had been talking for awhile, but he was still fuming. Billy turned and punched the wall, leaving a small crack, his hand throbbing. (reply Party People) “I just need to calm down, this is ridiculous. What next? Huh, what else is gonnna just fall in our laps?” At that moment Ailynn materialized, barely conscious, falling to the food with a thud. ~I need to learn to just keep my mouth shut.~ Billy thought to himself. Billy darted into the room and grabbed a hypospray and took it and injected Ailynn with it. ~Good thing I took first Aid~ Billy thought to himself. Ailynn’s head throbbed. She was barely aware of much around her, she knew there were people, and she could hear voices, but although even though she knew them, she had no clue who they were. She felt someone tending to her, and heard the hiss of a hypospray, giving her thoughts a touch of clarity, though her eyes weren't yet able to open. “Ailynn, what happened?” ~Billy? Ho boy.~ "Erin...must have knocked me out. Taking shuttle...Trinity...out too…" ~What the hell!~ “What do you mean, she knocked you out, Erin attacked you?” She was slowly coming around. "We'd operated on the Captain. Erin had gone back to the shuttle, i went to catch up to find Erin had knocked out Ensign Frost. She then turned to me and hit me with something. Last I remember…" “Wait, has she gone rogue?” Ailynn opened her mouth, trying to answer, but failed, and shrugged. Billy stood up and poked his head into the room, “Quinna, I need your help, Dr. Bracken is here and wounded.” (reply Quinna) Bill then turned to the rest of the Mars crew in the hallway. “Well if she’s at the shuttle, we don't have time to waste. We still have time to see if we can stop the shuttle from taking off, if not, we can give chase in the Evangeline. Whose with me?” (Reply Jaton, Tre, Sevant, Foxglove) “Alright then lets go!” Billy then began racing down the hallway to get the to the shuttle parking. ~Erin, I don’t know what the hell is wrong with you…..but I just don’t know anymore...this may be it for us. (reply Quinna, Jaton, Trei, Savant, Foxglove) (posted by Mark Howard and Will Banowsky (SPC Billy Alexander) (Mars Base - Security Services, Quarters - ASEC Ens. Saarsgard - 1835) Svend had already opened his secure locker in his office as the Ensign's general emergency call cut off. The first five seconds had been absolute shock, then his training had kicked in and he'd grimly begun to prepare. His sidearm was slung over his shoulders and his rifle was in hand by the time someone named Saleke, who the computer recognized as a legit authority, ordered the Security department to mobilize. It wasn't long later when the call from the Chief had come in, ordering the base to a lockdown condition. He slapped the power pack into his compression phaser rifle and checked it. "Rog, lockdown." He bolted out of his door, only just avoiding slamming into it by turning sideways to slide through as it opened. He tapped his badge while on the move, "This is Ensign Saarsgard. Security Team 2 assemble on the double in full kit, the Base is now on lockdown." (reply: anyone who wants to play a sec crewman, I suppose) He slammed into the main Security staging area like a multimeter Force of Nature. Troops were gathering from several different response teams, and even more were running out of the center to take secure positions and make sure the base was locked down against possible invasion. Or, he supposed, internal coup. Team 2's XO ran up and came to attention. "Sir, what's going on?" "Possible coup." Svend replied coldly. "Get the team in the know and ready, we need to be mission ready in ten minutes." He paused for a moment as he put his rifle down and picked up a piece of upper-body armor from the equipment module that had opened from the attached armory. This was the only protection he'd be wearing, unless they went to War. ~Which is all too possible,~ he thought with a sudden internal shiver. "Pass the word XO: Anyone that screws up today, and I'll rip off their head and skullf*ck them until their ghosts in Valhalla start to enjoy it." He finished strapping the armor on and picked the rifle up again. "But until then, they enjoy my utmost confidence in their skills and reliability." "Siryessir." The man ran off again, screaming at security squads to form up and stragglers to get their gear. The cords on Svend's neck were stretched tight, which was the only sign that he wasn't the island of calm his face and posture otherwise projected. He rested the rifle on his shoulder as the men lined up. "Security forces, report any suspicious activity and place any suspect into holding if found, Until we know what the hell is going on, prepare for sabotage... if not outright attack." "Please Gods," he whispered to himself. "Let this be a really bad joke, or cosmic-sized misunderstanding." Somewhere far off, for the second time in two weeks, he thought he heard Loki laughing his ass off. The MDP didn’t mobilize for a joke, and he knew it. (reply any) (posted by Trout) (USS Boudicca - Strategic Operations, Primary War Room - Stratops, Vice-Adm Sevant - 1835) Caladryll leaned back in his chair and looked at the screen with a blank face that belayed the furious thinking going on behind his eyeballs. The two messages he'd gotten from T'Loren, followed by a message from a mutual acquaintance, and then a fleet wide emergency message warning of a coup... the hell had she gotten herself into? More to the point, was she right? And if not, how many years would she serve in prison? "Sir, orders?" Sevant tapped a single finger on the arm of his chair, "Warm up the 1st, ROE alpha-niner." he finally said in a quiet voice. "But, I want them to hold position. Select the three closest to earth and dispatch them, shields up but weapons powered down. We need to know just what is going on. Have their Marine units ready, just in case this is for real." He tapped a button his his chair as his XO nodded and started passing war orders to the 1st Fleet. "Captain, move Boudicca to the Utopia Planitia yards. I want it made clear that nobody moves in our out until someone explains just what the hell is going on." He steepled his fingers as the Boudicca roared to life around him. "Get me in contact with Starfleet Command, or the President, or *someone* before this turns into a shooting war." "Yes Sir. And Sir, the MDP has gone active, Fighters are scrambling. On the authorization of a Lt. Sekal." "Very well. Sync our battle systems with theirs, just in case we do have to fight a battle." (reply: President, Any) (posted by Trout) (Mars Orbital - Operations Control – FOC Officer Ensign (JG) – Oliver Wallis - 1836) The room had momentarily frozen when Ensign Sevant’s message came over the speakers. Wallis was about to speak when Sekal’s voice cam over the comm system. =^=This is Lieutenant Sekal. Red alert, I repeat red alert. All fighter wings to mobilize immediately for planetary defense and take up position in orbit. Medical facilities to be mobilized. Security and tactical forces are to arm and await further orders. All other departments are to mobilize and stand by for support. This is not a drill=^= ~Ow crap~ He glanced over at his civilian counter part who had gone white. He hoped that he had not done the same. He paused calmed himself and begun. As this was now a military alert he had over all command of the orbital and space around Mars. They had practiced for this and had many scenarios and procedure but the fact that they were activating them was shocking. His mind spun through his options until he found the one that dealt with defending Mars from the direction of Earth. He caught his civilian counter parts eye who nodded at him as he nodded back. He hit the comm button which would activate the room main speaker and stood up from behind his console. “This is Ensign Wallis. We are at Red Alert and as per Federation Directive I will be in overall command here. I am activating Protocol Beta Gamm Six. I need any vessel that is between Mars and Earth tagged and any civilian vessels moved away in a parking orbit around Saturn. Or if they are further out the Neptune. Mars orbit and atmosphere will be cleared of traffic as we will be getting fighters into orbit if I am not mistaken. Any civilian vessel docked wth the Orbital that is not on a final departure schedule or can leave in five minutes will be locked down and their crews evacuated to the station.” People were staring at him. “Let’s be about it people.” He sat down as the low murmur of people working filled the room. =^=FWCC to Fighter Operations Control=^= “This is Fighter Operations Control.” =^=I am scrambling the Red Dragon squadron. They need priority surface to orbit clearance. I also have the White Skulls, Warbirds and Honey Badgers on alert launch. I will also be pulling some of the Void Haunters back into support the Red Dragons=^= “Understood FWCC we will have it ready for them.” He looked at one of his controllers who was responsible surface to orbital planning. “Steve. We have the Red Dragons needing a priority surface to orbit run. The White Skulls, Warbirds and Honey Badgers are on alert readiness so make sure that they have clear airspace in case they need to make a dash for orbit.” “Yes Ensign Wallis.” “Kitty when the Red Dragons get to orbit vector them into position one and assist them as needed.” “Yes Ensign Wallis.” “Nora the Void Haunters are going reposition to cover the Red Dragons, assist as needed. “Yes Ensign Wallis.” He looked at the main screen showing the vessels in the system beginning to move onto new vectors. “Sir I have a message from the USS Boudicca from a Vice-Admiral Sevant saying that he wants a hold on all traffic.” ~What the hell, where did he come from~ He spotted the icon of Boudicca as it was moving towards Yards at Utopia Planitia. “Chris kindly reply to the Boudicca that we are in the process of moving civilian traffic away from a conflict area and that she kindly maintains position until the area is secure before she proceeds any closer to the yards.” ~This is going to get nasty very quickly especially if I let an unknow allied warship into the yards the devastation that could cause would be horrific~ That reminded him of the Ensign Sevant. ~ I wonder if there is any relation to this Vice-Admiral~ “Where is the USS Rebel Wind, what is she?” “She is moving away from Earth sir. She a is fleet support vessel and is not combat capable.” He made sure that his hands were not fidgeting as he looked at his options. “Okay Elinor get the Rebel Wind clear. We need to make sure that his Ensign Sevant is able to explain what’s going on after this is over.” “Yes Ensign Wallis.” He paused taking his time looking at the unfolding situation on in the system hoping he had not forgot something. (Reply Boudicca, Rebal Wind, any) (Posted by Robbie) (SPC Oliver Wallis) (Starfleet HQ - Corridor - ENS SG Counselor Ariel Trei - 18.37) The frantic activity from the ballroom led to the party gathering in a corridor. The way it went down in the ballroom reminded her of an old Terran song called "Ballroom Blitz" Some of the lines in the song seemed appropriate for what was going on. Her father would totally fit the man in the back in the song. She supposed that she fit the woman in front but Cortez more likely fit it better. Cortez could totally convey her intentions by a wink of her eye. She could too but Erin was better at it. Her father would be gung ho like the man in the back and totally order an attack like that. She hummed the song as information was being discussed in the corridor. She tried to emulate the woman in front in the song by winking her eye but she didn't think she conveyed the action well. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) (Mars Facility, Science Annex- 5th floor, CSRD office– CSRD- Lieutenant (jg) Sekal- 1838) Sekal was well known for putting in a full day. He was looking through data on the new Mark-17 computer system available for manufacture on Binar which he was targeting for inclusion on a new class of science vessel when the monitor flashed red several times followed by an emergency alert. =^=This is Ensign Sevant, temporary commander of the USS Rebel Wind. The President has been attacked, along with two fleet officers. There is a probable military coup in progress. I request and demand the 1st standing fleet intervene as quickly as possible, while thing loyal officers of Starfleet still on the MDP stand ready. Those at Mars should arm and be ready to take the President back by force, if necessary. I am forwarding all files and recordings of the past 45 minutes in a subchannel attached to this emergency communique.... This message will repeat every three minutes.=^= His head shot up as he began considering every possible angle even as he was springing into action. "Computer open a base wide communication." =^= Channel open. =^= "This is Lieutenant Sekal. Red alert, I repeat red alert. All fighter wings to mobilize immediately for planetary defense and take up position in orbit. Medical facilities to be mobilized. Security and tactical forces are to arm and await further orders. All other departments are to mobilize and stand by for support. This is not a drill." (Reply: All) A call came through as he was signing off. =^=Peters to Sekal, something's happening on Earth. I'm heading to the command centre and I'm putting Mars into full lockdown.=^= "Acknowledged. I will be joining you shortly. I have issued a red alert. Available security and tactical forces are to armed and assemble immediately and await further orders." (Reply: Carson) He then tapped his combadge. "Transporter room, one to beam to the security center immediately." He stood to his feet and T'Lah woke from her nap long enough for the transporter effect to take hold then burrowed her nose beneath her tail and drifted back to sleep. (Reply: Everyone on Mars) (Posted by Charles G) (Mars Base - Security Services, Armory - SecO - Petty Officer (2nd Class) Steven Hammons- 1840) Hammons and Alaya had returned from their dinner date not long before when a general red alert and mobilization of Mars security forces had been called so Steven stormed into the armory, presented his credentials and waited since the base was on lockdown and everything was now being double verified. He was issued light body armor and a phaser rifle. The body armor he put on which took several minutes. During that he nearly ground his teeth down in frustration. After the armor was donned he picked up the phaser rifle and checked the charge. Satisfied he picked up two extra power packs, attached them to his belt and ducked out the door. (Mars Base – Medical Research Building – Unclaimed Research Office – Medical Research - Ensign JG Dural Methor DrPH – 1841) Dural had been concentrating on the lay out of the new containment forcefields since his arrival planet side. Initially suiting up in an isolation suit and going into the containment area to check on all the pathogens in stasis. Through DECON to be sprayed with several known disinfectant compounds many levels stronger than calcium hypochlorite all to ensure a sterile work area. All were in the green, safely tucked away slumbering in stasis. Then Dural was back out again through DECON to re-sterilize. That was on the first day. After that designing a multi-tier containment protocol was exacting work. More than the Cardassian had thought it would be up until that point. =^= This is Lieutenant Sekal. Red alert, I repeat red alert. All fighter wings to mobilize immediately for planetary defense and take up position in orbit. Medical facilities to be mobilized. Security and tactical forces are to arm and await further orders. All other departments are to mobilize and stand by for support. This is not a drill.=^= The alert klaxon was weak here, but definitely audible. While he was speaking with engineering later to set up all these force fields, he would mention the need to fix, update or upgrade the alert system here. Dural grabbed his PADD as he ran out the door to take his station. (Mars Base, Main Building, Floor 7, CaC - SCO, Ens(sg) Carson Peters - 1842) Carson had spent the next few minutes firing off orders to colleagues close to him within the Services Centre and then setup a site-to-site transport to the Security & Tactical level within the Main Building. It was times like this when he found it frustrating that he couldn't just transport directly into the Command and Control portion of the floor, but knew in the back of his head it was for the best that the transport inhibitors had been set-up. As the beam deposited him in the middle of the entrance way to the floor, looking around he noticed other transporter beams dropping other officers directly to where they needed to be. Lieutenant Sekal was stood next to him, "Lieutenant." Carson said with a nod. He then moved towards the entranceway, the Security Officer stood onguard allowed him through but looked hesitant to do so for the R&D Chief. "He's fine. Let him through." he said gruffly. The guard eye'd him, remembering that the Lieutenant had been spectaculary arrested only that morning and then allowed him through. They made their way through the desked area to the airlocked door, Carson tapped in his authorisation code and the doors slid open. Stepping in with Sekal, the door closed behind them and once it was shut the door in front opened and they were able to step into the bustling Security Command and Control centre. "Listen up." he said loudly as they walked towards the centre, "We have little idea of what we're facing- Ensign Saarsgard is setting up Security forces, I want open lines of communication from here to both him and Officers Sytuk & Caonrobh, as well as the fighters, MDP and any other allied vessels... There should be several files attached to the communication from Ensign Sevant. Load them up." he paused, remembering that though he was on his field, the Lieutenant was currently the ranking officer on the base and then turned to him, "Shall we see what's going on, Sir?" (Reply Sekal) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (USS Boudicca - Strategic Operations, Primary War Room - Stratops, Vice-Adm Sevant - 1842) “The Rebel Wind is moving at half impulse away from the yards, apparently towards the weapons training area - no ships are in her path.” “Order her to halt, add assurances nothing will come close. Us before them, she'll be needed for the upcoming inquest... or court martial.” He half turned towards his screen again as he ran all the files that had been sent through a tactical computer for pertinent information. =^=We’ve just gotten a call from Utopia’s Fighters, kindly ordering us to hold back while civilians are moved away from the... conflict area?=^= The Captain of Boudicca almost sounded amused. Sevant had chosen him for Captain for that reason, they shared the same gallows humor and skillset. “He wants to move all Earth/Mars traffic to Vulcan?” Sevant asked with a quirked eyebrow. “Cut to one quarter and approach slowly, but don't stop unless I say otherwise. I’ve got the reply.” He gestured to one of his officers to open a channel, “Visual communication, Include MDP control on Mars.” The communication officer nodded and gestured back. The admiral unconsciously thumbed one of his two large scars on his face, this one from the assault on Valhalla Starbase all those years ago when Doenitz finally fell, as he looked at the only area in his command center with a camera for outbound communiques. “Utopia Planitia Fighter Command and Mars Defense Command, this is Admiral Sevant of Fleet Strategic Operations. Negative on moving traffic, redirect all civilian traffic to Mars or a Starbase. The battleground is, in theory, all of Sol. Utopia is to be a no-fly zone for all but registered fleet vessels. Repeat, redirect all traffic to its nearest landing zone.” He muted and briefly turned away so his lips couldn't be read, “Prepare the 117th Sovereign Battle-group to move here, en-force.” He couldn’t take the risk that part of the MDP had been compromised. He’d commanded a battle-fleet against the full fury of the MDP once before in his life, he didn’t want to do it again. If worse came to worse, there would be no bud left to nip by the time he'd blasted it to hell. Sevant unmuted as he took a brief look at the current tactical map. “Further, you are to steer clear of the Rebel Wind, she is now under the protection of the 1st Fleet. We are running weapons hot, Utopia, I do not advise you test me on this. Respond immediately.” (reply: Any on Mars, MDP, with room for more) The admiral closed the channel and looked at the monitor by his chair, it had picked out the faces of each person present in the video. The vulcan frowned and leaned forward. Sure enough, the President was there - as was Cayne, Ktell and Bell. And there were weapons present. He spun in his chair, “Add Admirals Cayne, Ktell and Bell to the list of people to raise. And do it in the open for any to hear. If we can’t do it in the next two minutes, I want Security and Marine teams beaming down to Starfleet Command... appearances be damned.” "Admiral Bell has been located, she's calling for the Council to convene." "The Admiral is calling for the council, not the president?" Sevant asked, suddenly intent. "This should be good: redouble your efforts to find the others." (reply Mars, any) (posted by Trout) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area (Portico)- SecO - Petty Officer (2nd Class) Steven Hammons- 1844) Boyles, Fredericks, Richard's and all the boys were already there or arriving so Hammons got to his place in the second row and came to attention. His phaser rifle was placed just so against his shoulder. Saarsgard was there prowling the ground and waiting for the full muster. Hammons knew better than to be lax with his posture in the presence of that guy, he had been gunning for him ever since Stevens' ill-advised *welcome* to the Mystique. He could hear muttering all around him. "Geez, what the hell is going on?" "I don't know, there's talk of a coup." "A coup? A *** damn** coup?" "That's what I said." And those were the nice terms being floated around. At this point it was all rumor and Hammons knew better to listen to rumor. But if it was true... Who had started it and where would it end? (Reply: Saarsgard and all security) (Posted by Charles G) (Earth - Outside StarFleet Medical HQ - Shuttle - ACMO Ensign (sg) Erin Cortez/SPC Gul Dulon - 1844) Looking down at the controls, the fury that he felt was evident on the face of the woman he now inhabited. “I swear these starfleet people get more paranoid by the year.” .:We… are fighters…. You won’t win :. Closing the eyes of the body, Dulon growled as he continued to try to unencrypt the controls. Then a thought occurred to him. .: NO, you leave her alone. :. A smile that betrayed the evil within came over Erin’s own face as Dulon swiveled the body in the chair and looked back at the unconscious red headed woman on the floor behnd the seats. “Leave her alone? You have no power over me, impudent child. This body may be yours but it is i that is in control and i will use her if i need to.” .: No… wait…. :. Turning back to the controls, he looked down at the console, smiling at the reflection, “What is it now? You think you can bargain for her life?” .: Just… wait… she is more valuable to you alive if you want to get out of here. :. Closing the eyes of Erin, Dulon thought for a moment as Erin’s voice went quiet, .: I hope they… find me :. Dulon sat back and sighed, rubbing his eyes. ~Well, i suppose they are hers but to all intents and purposes, now mine~ he thought to himself as a wry smile flew over the face of the body he now inhabited. .: You son of a ….. :. ~Now now, young lady, that’s hardly the kind of talk becoming of a starfleet officer is it? I can feel you, scratching away in there. It’s only a matter of time before you stay quiet forever.~ .: No, no. It’s not going to happen, i won’t let you. :. ~Oh really? Let’s see who is the stronger person here? I have survived years, years on a small data crystal. My mind, my consciousness waiting for someone other than that weak minded Bajoran to let me out, set me free.~ .: ……… :. ~See, your silence speaks volumes, my dear. This should be interesting. To all intents and purposes, this is a battle. A battle in your head. Winner takes all. Perhaps i should show you exactly who you are dealing with here.~ He closed the eyes of the young female whose body he found himself liking and opened her mind. (Internal memory - Gul Dulon & Ensign Cortez) Bright lights. That was the first thing she noticed. That and the almost eerie, terrifying silence. As she adjusted to the brightness of the room, terror hit her as she realised that this was not one of her memories, but his. Trying to lift her head, she became acutely aware that she couldn’t move. Straining, Erin managed to lift her head enough to see where she was. A white room, a metal stand next to her with something on the top. Looking to her left, she realised why she couldn’t move. Straps covered her arms, wrists and she could then feel the one across her head, holding her steady. Trying to move her legs proved useless also. Fighting down the urge to yell, scream or just shake, she lay still. After a moment, she heard footsteps. Taking a breath, she turned her head to the right slightly and drew a sharp breath. “Now, my dear, you wanted to know what happened to your Captain?” said the Cardassian man standing next to her. “You…. you’re Dulon?” A smile crept onto his face, eyes crinkling with almost happiness that she had realised who he was. “Yes. Now, an answer?” Closing her eyes, Erin trembled slightly, “I don’t need to know.” Moving closer to her, Dulon leaned towards her and whispered in her ear, “Oh, i think you do. You need to know what he went through, what i did to him that made him the way he is now.” Shivering at the breath on her cheek, Erin opened her eyes and stared back at him. “This isn’t real. You aren’t here.” Standing tall over her, Dulon laughed, “Oh, but i am, my dear. I am here, with you inside your head. This…” he gestured around the room, “.... is as real to me as it is to you. This is my memory, my experience. Everything you feel, you experience, happened to Remae. You know he fought. But, as all good Bajorans do, he broke in the end. I wonder if you will too. If you are stronger than he was.” he remarked as he walked around her towards the metal stand. Erin’s eyes followed him as much as they could, knowing that something was happening, something that was not going to be good. Feeling her breath quickening as he pulled off the sheet covering the table, she finally saw what was on it and, at that moment, all pretense and calm went out of her mind and she shook. Dulon smiled widely as he moved the table towards her and, with a look on his face that Erin knew she would remember for a long time, said two words, two words that sent terror into her very soul. “Let’s begin.” (Starfleet HQ- Cockpit of Valkyrie Fighter MkV Designation Ares 01 - FCSO Lt. JG Trip Williams and Flight Officer Ensign JG Ronnie Winters - 1845) "These things go pretty fast huh," Ronnie chimed in from the gunners seat in the cockpit. "Eyes on the prize ensign," Trip said as he began to bring the Valkyrie down low from its cruising altitude, and eventually hovering over the plaza where the shuttles were parked. Looking at the scene he could easily notice the Evangeline and one of the Type 8s from Mars. ~This is insane~ Trip thought to himself. He was unsure of what was going on, just that there was an issue going on with HQ, he tried to get some updates, but comm frequencies were scrambled and jumbled. All he could make out was that it seemed like there was some sort of confusion and an attack and that someone was trying to escape in a shuttle. He was hoping that once he arrived on the scene it would be more clear. Hopefully his arrival would help the situation and not exacerbate anything. "Sir," Ronnie chimed in from the back, "Cursory sensor scan shows that systems are starting to power up from the Type 8." "I see that Ronnie, looks like security is closing in on it. Think we should give them a hand?" He said as he could see security personnel begin to approach the shuttle standing at safe distance with phaser rifles at the ready. Trip then maneuvered the fighter to where it was hovering a bit above the shuttle. "Affirmative sir, what do you have in mind?" "Activate tractor beam, if the shuttle tries to take off, it will have to shake us first." He had gotten the idea from watching Reena Dezza go after Greta during the fighter simulation one day prior. In seconds the fighter's tractor beam enveloped shuttle. "Ronnie, get me a firing solution and open a channel." "Aye sir," she said as she set up a targeting lock. She then opened the channel. "Channel is open sir." "Attention Type 8 Shuttle craft Mars 4, this is Lieutenant Trip Williams, Commanding Officer of the 1st Fighter Wing of Mars. We have you in a tractor lock and our weapons are trained on you, stand down and surrender." ~Alright Trip, you got this, be confident, firm, and direct.~ (reply Cortez/Dulon) (reply Cortez/Dulon) (posted by Will Banowsky) (Mars Facility- Medical – Nurse Ewan McDonald -1846) Ewan entered medical at a run. He was on the other side of the base when the message from Ensign Sevant came through. It had not taken a genius to workout that things were going to get bad. He waved his way through main medical heading for the operating theatre which he had been informed was his position. As he entered the first operating theatre the computer automatically turned on a dim light. “Computer lights to full.” He blinked as the bright white light filled the room. “Computer prep the operating table’s anaesthetic machine for trauma cases.” He stepped over to the cupboard and push clicked the door open. His eyes scanned down the shelves until he found one that said “Computer theatre lights to full power………..and off.” He grabbed the tray on the shelf which said Trauma Set and placed it on a trolley. As he moved it to one side, he pressed the activation button the side of the operating table and with a soft hum the clamshell sides of the surgical support frame appeared. “Computer run power up, diagnostic and power down on the surgical support frame.” He watched the lights appear on the surgical support frame and saw it power down before he nodded to himself. “Okay looks like we are ready here.” He paused as he scrutinised the room and nodded in satisfaction before heading towards the door. “Computer inform the medical system the Operating Theatre One is ready. I am proceeding to Operating Theatre Two.” (reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (SPC Ewan McDonald) (Mars Base, Main Building, Floor 7 -CSRD- Lieutenant (JG) Sekal- 1848) The transport went without incident and the Vulcan found himself in a chaotic situation with a number of personnel materializing outside the command center. His order had been like kicking an ants nest and every single worker appeared to be in full swarm. This was what they had been trained to do in the event of an activation of the Mars Defense Perimeter. There were multiple scenarios dealing with a plethora of threats, each one exhaustively planned and executed by drill until it had been ingrained into every thought, every action. His gaze quickly located Carson Peters in the controlled chaos. "Lieutenant." Sekal returned his nod and followed him to the door of the Security control center where the human got them through the checkpoint. Sekal ignored the guard's reaction which was due to the attempted subterfuge to take down the infiltrator. The trap had failed, apparently badly and he would find out how badly later, at this time however it was of secondary importance and did not even register as a blip in the area of primary significance. The Mars Defense Perimeter consumed all of his attention at the moment. They were walking through the door when the preliminary report from medical came through. =^=Central Medical to OPS, this is Ensign Dural Methor reporting, Medical stands ready to accept casualties.=^= He tapped the combadge. "Lieutenant Sekal acknowledging. Maintain alert preparedness until the situation changes. Alert status will be reviewed shortly." (Reply: Methor) This was followed shortly by the report from Ire Williams which proved that the fighter wings were on the move. =^=This is the First Fighter Wing, we are responding.=^= He tapped his combadge again to respond "Acknowledged. The fighter wings are to maintain a defensive position only. I repeat, defensive positions only until the alert status is reviewed. Orders are to fire only if fired upon until a clear attack MOO is given. Acknowledge receipt of this order." (Reply: Ire) After he signed off with the acting CO of the fighter squadrons in the absence of the CO and XO Chief Peters brought the control center to attention. "Listen up. We have little idea of what we're facing- Ensign Saarsgard is setting up Security forces, I want open lines of communication from here to both him and Officers Sytuk & Caonrobh, as well as the fighters, MDP and any other allied vessels... There should be several files attached to the communication from Ensign Sevant. Load them up." He stopped and turned toward Sekal. "Shall we see what's going on, Sir?" Sekal nodded. "Continue Chief Peters, main viewscreen." (Reply: Carson) The packet of video was quickly brought up on the viewscreen and the two positioned themselves before it as the sound was adjusted until it came through clearly without being deafening. The feed was showing obvious footage from the soiree on Earth with party goers moving about and chatting amiably. While this formed the setting and backdrop for the event in question it was not itself germaine to their investigation. A number of officers stationed on Mars were within the field of view. "Forward the video three minutes." "Yes sir."A technician did as requested and the video jumped. The individuals within the field of view changed and were pelting down a hallway. "Stop and back up the file to the start of activity." ""Got it. Time of change one minute, ten seconds." "Continue." "The video changed again, backing up in time. When it started up Sekal's keen eye noted all of those within the field of view who were senior officers on Mars were caught showing various stages of shock and confusion. They came together for a quick discussion and were joined by others. This soon broke up and they began moving away quickly and were followed by the one who was the originator of the video. There were shouts and questions being thrown about by a number of them though they didn't slow down their pell mell flight. (Repl: Carson) The headlong rush eventually ended in an operating theater. It moved quickly and you had to be observant but he noted Captain Remae upon the operating table, a fleet Admiral upon the floor, the President of the UFP wounded and being attended to and Admiral Bell in the center of the tableau holding a phaser and with a determined look upon her face. Who had initiated the hostilities?" "Pause video." Sekal turned toward Chief Peters and lifted a questioning eyebrow with the scene frozen on the screen. "Interesting." (Reply: Carson) The video playback continued. (Reply: Carson, Any) (Posted by Charles G) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area - ASEC, Ens. Svend Saarsgard - 1848) “Get two more squads on hallway detail, mop everyone up and stuff them somewhere secure.” The NCO nodded and immediately ran off to give orders. Svend looked back down at his padd and, reassured the world hadn’t quite ended yet, put it back in his uniform. Mars had thousands of people in the various security segments. He’d never tried commanding so many, even getting them together was proving to be a pain in the arse. As he turned to look over his team, he noted a familiar face. Three seconds of utter distaste filled him, before he beat it back. Of all the times to be disliking one’s coworkers, a possible coup was the worst. Still... He pointed at Hammons and then quirked a finger, a not-so-subtle hint for him to break ranks and approach. (reply: Hammons, any) (posted by Trout) (Present time - Shuttle - ACMO Erin Cortez/Gul Dulon - 1849) Chuckling to himself as the eyes of the young woman opened, he spoke out loud. “I told you my dear. My memories and my mind are not for the faint hearted. If you get to see your Captain again, you tell him that I showed you. That i, Gul Dulon, showed you what happened to him in every little detail and you tell him that you broke just as he did. “ .: ….. Please…. Stop…. :. “You are weak. You quiver in this head of yours, shaking at a mere memory. What a insignificant, little person you are. You should be thanking me for doing this, for making you something greater than you ever were.” .: …. I will fight you…. With every ounce of my mental strength i have…… :. “Well, considering i am in your head, my dear, i know what that amounts to and, let’s be truthful, it isn’t a lot. I mean, come on, be honest. You let one man colour your view so bad you nearly let something…. .: Shut up…. Don’t you dare say his name…. :. Laughing, Gul Dulon rolled her shoulders back, looked into the viewscreen ahead of him to see her reflection staring back at him and smiled, “What? You dare think that you have the power to stop me from saying a simple name? You are hiding in there. I can feel you weakening.” .: No…. :. “Yes, i can tell. Your voice is softening, the scratching is lessening. You will lose this battle my dear.” .: No…. :. Laughing heartily now, Dulon smiled at what was now his own reflection, waved and sat back, knowing that this body was now his. .: No… please… :. "Oh stop whining. You know it makes sense. The Federation ends today. Nothing and no-one can stop me. Certainly not you. You are losing this battle, my dear." As the shuttle lifted off slowly, it shuddered to a halt. Growling loudly, Dulon hit the controls as a voice Erin knew came through the Comm, strong and true, "Attention Type 8 Shuttle craft Mars 4, this is Lieutenant Trip Williams, Commanding Officer of the 1st Fighter Wing of Mars. We have you in a tractor lock and our weapons are trained on you, stand down and surrender." .:oh thank God:. Pressing the console, Dulon activated the comm, audio only, "Lieutenant Trip Williams, long way from home." (Reply Trip, Ronnie) "Not quite, but she's in here somewhere. Body isn't bad. Although, from what she has in her head, you aren't the right family member are you?" (Reply Trip, Ronnie) "Gul Dulon. Scientist, Doctor in the great Cardassian Empire. " (Reply Trip, Ronnie) .: Trip, help…. :. "Shush, she's such a whiner, this one. At least the other is silent." (Reply Trip, Ronnie) "The red head, pilot. " (Reply Trip, Ronnie) "You bore me now. We are going to resume my plan for the Sol system and it's destruction. " (Reply Trip, Ronnie) It was then Erin knew. Knew the only way that this was going to end. Summoning the last ounce of strength she had, she forced Dulon back down in her mind and opened her eyes, gasping and wincing in pain. "Trip, you still….. there?" (Reply Trip, Ronnie) "It's…. Ducks." She replied and terminated the comm. She knew she had to work quickly and so, with her fingers dancing over the controls in the shuttle, she transported Trinity's body outside the shuttle, then accessed the transporter controls and set a delay programme to run in the next few minutes. Opening a com channel, she spoke as clearly as she could, her voice trembling with the pain and effort to keep Dulon at bay. "Cortez to Admiral Bell. " (Reply Bell) "Ma'an, are you with the Captain?" (Reply Bell) "Forgive me for being blunt but I don't have…. " she paused, hissing with pain, "..... a lot of time. The file your husband had was Dulon." (Reply Bell) "Because he's screaming in my head right now. Look, I can't hold him back long enough. I can't so I need you to do one thing for me. (Reply Bell) "Tell everyone I'm… sorry." Erin shut off the com channel and leant back in the chair as the computer beeped. Reaching for the phaser that was in the seat next to her, she fired at her chest as the shuttle's transporter enveloped her in a dance of light and colour as she dropped, now unconscious to the floor, transported to Admiral Bell's Side. (Reply Bell, Trip, Ronnie, any) (Posted by Jackie) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area - (SPC)- SecO- Petty Officer (2nd Class Steven Hammons - 1850) The muttering had died down rather than picked up since the ranks had filled. Sounds counter-intuitive sure but most of the late arrivals had already heard what little scuttlebutt there was which left only dark muttering and doom and gloom to be rehashed by that point. Plus there was discipline to consider, by far the most pressing issue and if you broke it you could get squashed. Which is the reason Hammons kept his trap shut for one of the few times in his life. He wasn't scared of the *Skyrim is for the Nords* character but at the same time he was realistic. Catching Saarsgard's notice could be detrimental to his mental and physical well being since running till one dropped could conventionally be considered over-exertion. Harder to do on Mars certainly but Saarsgard had given it his best try. If nothing else Steven had come through in better shape for it but it paid to space out such workouts and not clump them too closely together. And because he was trying to be inconspicuous it stood to reason his plan would be waylaid. Murphy must have considered this the perfect opportunity in a career filled with ******* up people's plans since horned helmet took that moment to look around the group. And who would his eyes fall upon? Was it that obvious? Yep! It was Steven. Hammons saw the red flush tinge his scar and the gritting of teeth that passed quickly. ~And this day was going so well. Minus a possible attempted coup of course.~ Saarsgard crooked his finger and motioned for him to step out of line, it was like watching Freddie Krueger issue an invitation minus the evil grin. ~Okay, so what's the worst he can do, shoot me for being a spy? Even under these conditions I don't think he could get away with it.~ He stepped forward while keeping a neutral expression on his face since a smirk at his thoughts might be misconstrued as laughing at the guy which come to think of it would actually be true. ~You can shake me but you can't break me.~ Once he had stopped in front of the officer he planted his right foot and looked him squarely in the eye, or as close as he could since the guy stood about six inches or so taller than he did. "Petty Officer Hammons reporting for duty sir!" He snapped, pleased that he was able to fight back the smile that was trying to graft itself to his face. He knew the guy detested him and took comfort in the fact that even while he didn't like him Saarsgard was being forced to contend with his presence. (Reply: Saarsgard) (Posted by Charles G) (Mars Base - Security Services, Staging area - ASEC, Ens. Svend Saarsgard - 1853) "Petty Officer Hammons reporting for duty sir!" ~One one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one... ahh, f*ckit. Plan B.~ He gestured imperiously to his side and started walking, so as to be out of easy earshot of the men. If he took only one lesson from all the histories his mother had taught him as a child, it was that an enemy's skull should be used as one's mead-horn. He'd much rather have a drink right now, as opposed to dealing with this overbright, smartarsed... He cut the thought before it could go any further, the end goal kept coming to mind when he looked up and saw armed personnel gathering or standing in tight formation. They were almost all here now. He absently rubbed the nearly destroyed half of his face. Indeed, he'd much rather be drinking right now. Svend stopped. "I don't like you. You're entirely too smart for your own good." He turned to face the NCO with a look that very much described the disgust, but then he let his own expression melt away. "But I don't have time for that, neither of us do. We could end up fighting our own very soon - and these men don't know me. They do know you, some of them anyway." He turned his head to look at them. This wasn't his first time in combat, but it would be for many of them. And the looks on some of their faces... Svend looked back down at Hammon, "They have to trust that we're doing the right thing, they have to trust that those they’re following won't spend them like cheap coins. They don't know that about me. But for all that I'd adore shoving my boot up your ass, you're fair - and they do know that. So, you're at my side until this is over. If something happens you think I need to know, you'll tell me. If we do have to fight, the men will see us kicking the same ass." "If you don't think you can do this, point out someone who can." (reply: Hammon, any) (posted by Trout) (Mars Base - Security Center, Main Lounge - ASEC, Ens. Saarsgard - 1855) Saarsgard picked up his drink from the bar and hefted it in a brief salute to the bartender, before looking around at a great number of people who had gathered after their shift. He’d been contacted not once, but twice, today - but at least the second one came with a record that included some basic information and a face. He was able to do some homework before *this* meeting. Small favors. Svend took a deep drag from his mug of beer as his eyes bounced from person to person, looking for this newly assigned Ensign. (reply: Sleeford, Any) (Mars Base – Central Medical – Med Research - Ensign JG Dural Methor DrPH – 1855) Luckily for the Cardassian’s lumbering form, it was a shorter run than it seemed and he slowed down to a trot. He came bursting though the door sideways so he didn’t have to wait for the automatic doors to open completely. “Status.” He said in a loud voice. It was not a question, it was an order. “CMO is off world.” Came one of the petty officers bringing bio beds on line. Others were rushing by to take their stations. One had just closed her uniform top as she walked through the door. Dural remembered her face, she was on night shift with him on the Mystique. “Preparations for a mass casualty event are…” he guessed, “80% complete.” Dural nodded. “Personnel accountability still pending.” She reported. “Are you just missing those who went to Earth for the party or are otherwise off planet for leave?” Dural asked. “Yes, sir.” Came her response. “Then that’s all we can hope for.” He tapped his combadge. “Central Medical to OPS, this is Ensign Dural Methor reporting, Medical stands ready to accept casualties.” (Reply OPS, anyone coming into Medical) (Posted by Todd SPC Dural Methor) (Mars Base, Security Services, CSec Office - SCO, Ens(sg) Carson Peters - 2225) It was going to be a late night and there didn't seem to be anything he could do about it. The days got longer and longer the higher up in command you seemed to go. He was waiting for the Officer which had been sent by Starfleet HQ, by his uncle specifically, to help with the Internal Affairs operation he was about to launch in the morning. He needed to know he could trust the people who had been involved in the Kiva Rothvaryn operation. The interview that Vax & Hammons had conducted had certainly been entertaining and took the idea of "thinking outside of the box" further than Carson had expected, but had revealed very little that they didn't know. The key piece of information was that Kiva hadn't known Sekal's arrest had been a ruse, yet her employers did somehow. Which really lead to only one conclusion, that there were others on the base working for them. Carson had sent his plans to Starfleet Security HQ to be signed off on before bringing in Ensign Saarsgard & Sleeford into the operation in the morning. After what had then happened with the Admiral, Captain and team down on Earth later on in the day, it seemed Admiral Janeway had decided he wanted one of his men in on the operation also. When the orders came from that high up, there was nothing he could do but agree and make the best of the situation. Impressed with how quickly the Admiral had managed to mobilze getting an Officer here, through the confusion and internal war which seemed to have been raging Carson was now eager to meet the man. Looking up as the chime went off, he tapped a button under the desk and the door opened to allow in a blonde haired man who looked around the same age as he. He walked in, stood to attention and said, "Ensign Williams, reporting as ordered sir." Standing, Carson nodded, "Stand at ease, Ensign or, infact take a seat." He pointed to the seat on the opposite side of his desk. He sat back down and took the padd which the Ensign passed to him and began reading, ~John Williams... Earth Cop... Hostage Negotiator... First class in Interviews.... Medic~ All very impressive, but nothing that leapt from the page to explain why he'd been selected to assist with an IA investigation. "I appreciate you making the trip from Earth so quickly John." The name then clicked in Carson's mind, ~ANOTHER Williams?! How many cousins does Trip have?~ he thought amusingly. (Reply John Williams) ~Permenant Transfer?~ He got to the part on the padd. where it described that Ensign Williams was to become a permenant part of the Security & Tactical team on Mars. ~Interesting decision~ "Your transfer was authorised at the highest level, you've clearly got someones attention Ensign." Carson said as he looked up from the padd. (Reply John Williams) "I have to be frank, I didn't request someone from Earth to come across and assist, but I certainly won't say no to the help. You are in no doubt better informed on what's been happening on Earth than I am, but let me catch you up on our operations here on Mars." he paused for a moment and then went into detail, starting at the begining, discovering the leak, finding out who was behind it, how they did so, what they did to surveil her and the plan to catch her in the act, arrest and force a confession out of her. "Which obviously went horribly wrong. Once Lieutenant Sekal was arrested and we had our teams in place, Luma... you know about Luma, right? Detected a foreign transport signal straight into Kiva Rothvaryn's quarters and we initiated a rapid response unit, utilising Ensign Taya's tactical team and Petty Officer Hammons capture team to run down what turned out to be murders and bring them back in." (Reply John Williams IYW) "Their interrogation has been completed just in the hour past. You'll have access from tomorrow AM to all the audio and video recordings. I need you to get settled in tonight and then report back here at 8am tomorrow, at that point I'll continue this briefing with you, Ensign Saarsgard & Sleeford who I want running an IA investigation to figure out if one of my team leaked the raid on Kiva Rothvaryn and therefore lead to her death." (Reply John Williams) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Mars Facility, Science Annex, CSRD Office – CSRD- Lt. (Jg) Sekal, (NPC) VDF Commodore Saleke and (SPC) Luma'Lenai - 2250) The two vulcans materialized in Sekal's office on the fifth floor of the annex. "Lights." The room brightened and Sekal walked over to the desk where he sat down. His visitor took a seat on the other side. T’Lah immediately hopped into his lap and circled herself three times before taking a seat in Saleke’s lap. "Engage monitor." The monitor slid up and the computer interface activated. "Luma please open a channel to ground logistical control." Luma made the proper connections, better than the computer could do so. =^= The Sekal wishes it encrypted? Is a secrets? =^= "No Luma, no encryption is necessary." =^= Logistics, Felix here. =^= "Mr. Felix, Lieutenant Sekal here. A Vulcan shuttle will be arriving shortly with one crate of cargo to be dispatched to the Science Annex. I have already inspected said cargo and verified it's contents. You are to have a vehicle standing ready when it arrives and bring it directly to the annex and deposit it in the High Energy Particle Physics Lab. Is this understood?" =^= Lieutenant that is not the way things generally go around here. I have forms to fill out, routing orders…=^= "You have been given an order. Send the forms to me and I will fill out and file them." =Yes sir. I'll send the forms and the cargo directly over.=^= That conversation over he continued. "Luma." Luma sat silent for a long moment. A very long moment. Then she finally decided to speak. "You once told me you desired to speak to my father. He is present now." "Greetings Luma." Saleke spoke from the other chair. "I trust that you have found your accommodations on the surface acceptable?" The bars on his collar glinted in the light as he moved. =^= Why did the Saleke leave Luma alone? Why? Luma was alone for too long and you and the Vanyssa promised that Luma would not be alone. Why?=^= So much frightened emotion in those few words. Much like a child might ask a father why something had gone so terribly wrong did Luma look to Saleke as such. Saleke's eyes became hooded and unreadable as the Lenai spoke. He leaned forward in his chair then reached out and touched the monitor as his son watched and nodded. Sekal knew that his father had once been mind bondmate to Luma as well. ::I am opening my mind to you. Do you see it?:: Saleke could feel the emotions of Luma as he lowered his mental barriers. It was not a mind meld but yet it was in a way, this sharing of thoughts between Luma and a former mind bondmate. Luma’s thought for a moment but she gave into her curiosity and swept through the memories of Saleke like a cool breeze on a hot sultry night. When she found the appropriate memories, the Lenai stopped and experienced them in a way that even other telepathic races could not. As their thoughts became entwined he opened his memories to her, Vanyssa Winters incapacitation and his orders to take command of the ship. The Mystique had just started its survey on a G9 star when they had been recalled to Geneva and he had been ordered to take command of a Prometheus Class vessel, the first of its kind in the 52nd fleet . He shared his memories of the conversation with Admiral Calwell. "Then I will be transferring Luma'Lenai with me." "No you will not." "For what reason?" "That is above your pay grade Captain Saleke." "Yet it is an apropos question." "Very well, StarFleet Intelligence will be taking over the Mystique." "For what purpose?" Admiral Calwell stood to his feet. "That is none of your concern Captain. You have a new commission and you have your orders." Saleke was unmoved by the glower on Calwell's face. "The orders are illogical, Luma is a member of my crew." Calwell's right fist slammed onto the desktop. "Luma Lenai is a member of an alien species and her threat level and abilities must be categorized!" "I myself can speak for her character and abilities." "That is not your place Saleke!" Calwell roared. "You have your orders! You will take command of your new ship tomorrow and follow your orders. You will not make contact with Luma'Lenai in that time. Am I clearly understood?" The Vulcan did not flinch in the face of the Admiral's wrath. "Your orders are understood." Luma was unhappy when the way forward in the memories was blocked and she was incapable of ‘seeing’ what happened, so he opened more of the memories for her. He had not said he agreed with the orders, only that he understood them. He had been barred from returning to the Mystique, turned away at a security checkpoint manned by Intelligence officers and his attempts to contact her had been blocked. Saleke could sense Luma’s rising fear, but then the met the memory where Winters and Saleke were at the fight to save the disintegrating Geneva, and Luma shared that she felt ‘whole’ for a time, but Winters had blocked that the time out of dockyard had been constrained, the loss of life without the Mystique for once overriding the lunacy of command, but the further destruction of Winters’ neural pathways had forced the two apart. Vanyssa Winters had just been too damaged and having been called back into service, it was just too soon for her to have made a full recovery. More memories came with more attempts to contact the Lenai over the next several months and then years. Hearing that Vanyssa Winters had been commanding Luma and the Furious interacting with them had been satisfying. And still his every attempt to persuade command to allow him to move her had been blocked. And finally his resignation, their continuing efforts to separate the two had been too much on top of the political intrigue infecting the Fleet. It was only a few years later that the 52nd had been disbanded. Luma spiraled her way out of the memories, a heavy presence in the air, =^= Saleke will not let this happen again to Luma. Luma is too scared of the dark alone to spend eternity there again. =^= Her voice was a pained whisper, and it was obvious to both that Luma was blocking Vex, her current bondmate, or Vex would be there to comfort her. Vex was stronger than Vanyssa Winters and Luma felt safe with Vex. =^= Luma would rather go be with the ones like Sekal and Saleke than be alone in the darkness again.=^= The Lenai were very emotional beings and to be among the vulcans likely would be considered a torture, but there were degrees of torture after all. The father spoke before the son. "I will do everything in my power to insure your safety. I believe Admiral Ktell values you Luma and will support this." =^= They do not want him to be an Admiral anymore. And the Jana Bell does not know Luma even though she is the Ktell’s mate. If the Intelligence tries to imprison Luma again, Luma would like the promise of you to come to her rescue?=^= Hope was in the Lenai’s voice. Saleke looked at his son who nodded. "Admiral Bell his wife has taken command. Captain Ktell has been reduced in rank." A strange look came over Saleke's face, neither emotional nor emotionless but determined. "Then I vow that I will take up your cause once again Luma and I will not stop until you are among those you trust." Sekal raised an eyebrow at his father's demeanor. He had not been a part of Saleke's meld with Luma but he was well aware of the power of Lumas's emotions… and the bond with a mind bondmate. "As will I." (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles Gatling (Sekal, Saleke) (And Melinda Gatling (SPC) Luma'Lenai)