NOTE: This first part of a two part Compile for October 2009 concludes all posting for the Going Dutch Mission. ================================================ ================================================ Mission: Going Dutch Day 7 Stardate 2408.12.09 ================================================ ================================================ (Shuttle Zenobia - Lieutenant (jg) Denise Lebranski - 1725) "Detron is fine since we will be working close together. May I call you Denise? The prospect of meeting your mother and the ensuing battle of wills is intriguing, but the crawdad dinner appeals to me more since it will be a new experience for me. Are we ready for launch?" That sure was a mouthful from the usually monosyllabic chief of security. "Denise is fine, actually, I prefer it." She replied honestly. She double checked the panels, "And we're green to go." (Reply Trei/any) The shuttle slipped out into space with ease and grace. Denise could only wince when she saw the damage to the outside of the ship, "Would it be unprofessional to say I hope we find those responsible and feed them their own toe nails from the inside?" she asked, mostly rhetorically, the crew of the shuttle. (Reply any) (posted by Lorna) ********* (Shuttle Zenobia - Lieutenant (jg) Denise Lebranski - 1735) "Initiate long range scans Denise and look out for surprises. It should be a while before we see anything so tell me about your family and New Orleans." "Oh Holy.. Well, let me start with New Orleans, best place on Earth," Denise said with a grin, as she switched her consoles to monitor long range scans, "Not that I'm biased, of course." (Reply Trei, any) "The soul of the city is the French Quarter. In her ranks you can hear the finest of Jazz music, taste the best of Creole cooking, see the glorious Mississippi, feel truly alive and smell.. well, the river smells like it's five years dead, but that's okay, it's part of the glory." The Creole officer could probably go on about New Oreleans for six hours if she was allowed. (reply Trei, any) (posted by Lorna) ********* (Shuttle Zenobia - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 1745) Lebraski proceeded to tell Detron about New Orleans. She said some- thing about the French Quarter involving Jazz music. Detron didn't know anything about Jazz but was looking forward to experiencing it. Lebraski further told of Creole cooking and Detron wanted to experience that very much. Detron could see how excited Lebraski was telling of her home town. Detron would like to tell of his home world at a later date. Detron decided to tell about Betazed. It was not as lengthy as Lebraski but he told it with some flourish. "That is something I look forward to when I visit New Orleans. I shall do the same for you when you visit Betazed. Lets go bring Bob back to the Boudicca safely." (Reply Lebraski iyw) (Posted by Edward) *********** (Unknown Planet - Jungle – Captain Justin Von Rache – 2318.5) Justin looked over at the engineer who nodded in silent thanks. Justin nodded back in acknowledgement. "What sort of data is it, 'Oli'? What exactly are you people doing doon here? And what is so bloody valuable that ye are willin' tae kill for it?" As he waited a reply, Lorimar's commbadge chirped for attention. =^=Lieutenant Lorimar are you undamaged? Would you please return to the main campsite as quickly as you are able?=^= "Selek, can ye tell me why?" There was a long pause. =^=Sir, there has been... a development which I believe requires the attention of the entire away team. Perhaps that of our 'guests' as well. =^= "Very well Mister Selek, we will be there in a moment. Oot." With a nod toward Parrr'Z and Justin, Lorimar headed quickly back to the camp. Parrr’Z looked at Justin in a way that said you move ahead of me and the prisoners so that I can keep an eye on you. Justin smiled and complied with the silent order. (posted by Oleg) ******** (Unknown Planet - Jungle - Yeoman Shadow to Sretalles - 2319) Shadow was happy to hang out on a tree while the bad guys and the good guys argued. Parrr'Z was doing a very excellent impression of a rampant lion about to eat raw liver from the living flesh of the sapients who were irritating him. She'd followed the chase from the tree tops, easily jumping and swinging through the canopy. She really missed the trees of home. Considering there were two people trying to kill them, it was fairly likely that there was more. You didn't have just two people on a ship, after all. Or maybe they were on the same ship as the friendly captain and he was just a decoy. She didn't really follow the various alliances and who crashed on what ship. She just wanted to make sure no one else ambushed her friends and crew- mates. (posted by Lorna) ******** (Unknown Planet - Jungle – SPC Sec/PO1 Parrr'Z - Day 7 – 2319.5) Though Parr figured he wouldn't have replied anyway, before the Tellarite could answer the CEO's question about what sort of data it was that made him willing to kill for it, there came a message from Selek calling Lorimar back to the camp as quickly as possible. Upon Lorimar's inquiry about why he should return, the Vulcan explained that there had been a 'development' which required the entire away teams' attention and perhaps that of their 'guests' also. "Very well Mister Selek, we will be there in a moment. Oot." With a nod toward Parrr'Z and Justin, Lorimar headed quickly back to the camp. Parrr’Z looked at Von Rache in a way that conveyed he should move ahead of him and the prisoners so he could keep an eye on them all, then he leaned down to slice through the captive's ankle bindings and hauled them to their feet so they could stagger after Von Rache and the 2O. A soft rustle of leaves overhead and her familiar scent brought Parr's attention to Shadow's presence up in the trees. ~ I might have known she wouldn't stay in camp. Has she never heard the expression 'curiosity killed the cat?' ~ He grinned slightly as he acknowledged to himself that he really loved her just the way she was. (posted by Sal) ********* (Unknown Planet - Runabout Crash Site - Captain Justin Von Rache – 2321.5) As they approached the crash site, Justin wondered if the development was more of Talia’s goons or Talia herself arriving at the crash site. What they found was nothing he could have ever imagine. The shiny spider resting on its legs was reflecting the fire light looked menacing without even trying as it stood several meters from the runabout. The torso on top with perhaps a dozen appendages supported what looked like a rounded head. Justin looked toward the runabout as the others gathered at it’s entrance trying to find Garna and Brinn. "Selek, ah presume this is the 'development' ye referred tae?" "Affirmative. It appeared shortly before I contacted you. It's approach was virtually silent, it did not activate Lieutenant Rel's perimeter alarm and I only detected it visually when it came within a dozen meters of the campsite proper sir." "It's made nae threatening or aggressive moves? It just showed up?" "That is correct, sir." "Please tell me *someone* has a working tricorder... and if anyone has any ideas ah'd love tae hear them?" Justin looked over at Lorimar and shook his head no. A few moments passed and the thing began to what appeared as scanning the runabout. When it was done the thing spoke. "PRIME DIRECTIVE STATUS: PRIMARY PHASE LEARNING IS COMPLETE," the thing said so loud Justin though his eyes head would explode. "Could ye turn down that bloody volume, whoever or whatever ye are? Yer killin' us!" Yelled Lorimar. One of the thing's appendages extended in Lorimar's direction, made several revolutions, then returned to its previous position. "Statement: Injury was unintended," began the thing speaking much quieter. "Interrogative: You are the biologic Lorimar?" "Aye... that is, yes, I am" As the thing conversed with Lorimar Justin could not help but think to himself, ~What I wouldn’t give to see what’s on the inside of that thing.~ Justin was paying attention to what the spider was saying while looking over toward Garna’s direction. She nodded to indicate that she was ok. Just then the spider turned toward him and spoke. "Statement: We are directed to convey regret for the irreparable damage to the biologics which accompanied you within the construct 'Heart of Stone'. Damage was collateral and unintended. We express..." More clicking and whirring. It *appeared* that the more the thing -- Probot -- interacted, the smoother and more natural its use of language became. "Regret. The expression of regret is intended. Repeat: Biologic damage was unin- tended, and regrettable." “You’re might be the only one,” Justin muttered under his breath. “I understand, we harbor no ill toward you.” Justin said out loud. “Since you were able to find us perhaps you can tell us about the other life forms that landed on this planet. The ones who came to the planet without damaging their construct.” It had occurred to Justin on their treck back to the Camp that Oli and his companion were carrying equipment that did not appear damaged and dirt on their clothing from struggling on the ground, not around damaged conduits. (Reply Alien Construct, Any,) (Posted by Oleg) ********** (Unknown Planet - Runabout Crash Site - Yeoman Shadow to Sretalles - 2322) Shadow stayed in the trees as she observed the very large mechanoid. She'd KNOWN that the planet's occupants hadn't meant harm and had said as much on the runabout on their way down. But no, a certain officer had to declare it as if it was his idea and inspiration hours after landing. She was starting to see what Denise meant about the average officer needing a prybar to assist with cranial removal from nether regions. But maybe she was just tired and cranky. She wanted to volunteer to teach the representative since she *was* a bardic student, but the starfleeters didn't seem to take that as very important or relevant. But then, most furless bards were just entertainers and didn't often take the opportunity to teach. Instead she remained in the trees and on guard. (posted by Lorna) ********* (Unknown Planet - Runabout Crash Site - SPC Sec/PO1 Parrr'Z – 2322.5) At sight of the large mechanical contraption, Parr's ears flattened against his head and his fur bristled with alarm, was this yet another adversary the away team had to contend with? The strange machine resembled a giant spider, Parrr'Z detested spiders so much it was almost a phobia for him, after he'd been bitten by a poisonous spider on Cait when he was a young cub and had almost died. He herded his captives before him and kept well away from it as the 2O conversed with Selek and the machine, while he rebound the prisoners' legs so they couldn't run and shoved them down to the ground where he stood watching over them and glancing now and again at the giant spider as he considered how he could terminate it should it become aggressive. Apparently it had made no aggressive moves after just showing up. The proximity alarm had not sounded and it's approach had been silent. Parr was certain that he'd have heard the alarm had it been set off. "....... I only detected it visually when it came within a dozen meters of the campsite proper sir." Selek concluded. It appeared to be scanning the runabout and when it was done it spoke, or rather shouted so loudly that Parr thought his head was going to split in two, causing Lorimar to yell at it to turn the volume down. One of the machine's appendages extended in Lorimar's direction, made several revolutions, then returned to its previous position causing Parrr'Z to chuckle nervously, it seemed to be checking the 2O out. "Statement: Injury was unintended," began the thing speaking much quieter. "Interrogative: You are the biologic Lorimar?" "Aye... that is, yes, I am." ~ How did it know that? ~ Parr wondered, then figured it must have been watching and listening for a while and likely knew everyone's names. The machine conversed with Lorimar and then addressed Von Rache, sort of apologizing for the deaths of his crew, which had been unintended. ".........Regret. The expression of regret is intended. Repeat: Biologic damage was unintended, and regrettable." “I understand, we harbor no ill toward you.” Von Rache answered the machine. “Since you were able to find us perhaps you can tell us about the other life forms that landed on this planet. The ones who came to the planet without damaging their construct.” ~ Good question, ~ Parr thought, listening carefully to the machine's reply. "And can you tell us how many there are besides these two here." He added. (Reply Alien Construct, Any,) (Posted by Sal) ================================================== ================================================== Mission Going Dutch Day 8 Stardate 2408 12.10 ================================================== ================================================== (Unknown Planet - Runabout Crash Site - Lieutenant (jg) Denise Lebranski - 1429) Denise shook her head at the damage done to Bob's baby as she stepped out of the shuttle on the jungle world. Trei was probably already home, Denise preferred civilized worlds, thank you very much. Running water and toilets should never be too much to ask for. She came up to Bob where he was filling in the acting first officer, "Sorry to interrupt, sirs," She said, trying not to be seen studying the chief of engineering for damage, "but I brought Bob a present." She held up his tool kit. (Reply any) (posted by Lorna) ================================================= ================================================= Mission: Going Dutch Day 9 Stardate: 2408.12.11 ================================================= ================================================= (Shuttle Hypatia - Yeoman Shadow to Sretalles - 0450) Shadow was happy to see Chief Bob's ship take into the stars even if it had taken a tractor beam from two shuttles to do it. She had to wonder if Chief Bob had actually slept during the repairs to get her well enough to survive the transport. Shadow had also been happy to see Denise, though the woman seemed more interested in mating with Chief Bob than anything else; even if Chief Bob didn't seem to scent it. Parrr'Z had seemed very happy to show his boss around the jungle and show him some of the many toothed creatures there were to hunt. Shadow finished the reports and stopped herself from sending. "Uhm, Chief Bob?" (Reply Lorimar) "What ARE we calling this planet?" Shadow asked, whiskers twitching. (Reply Any) "Bob?" Shadow asked, all innocence, "That would be a silly name for a planet!" (Reply Any) Her tail looped in several rings, "When the bard is worried about names and not about the nameless coming out to eat you, who worries about being eaten?" She asked. "Besides, even a Chief Engineer needs his tail pulled now and then." (Reply Lorimar, any) (Posted by Lorna) ********* (Shuttle Hypatia – a2O/CEO Lt Lorimar – 0451) Lorimar had barely slept in the last several days. With all the events during the test flight, then the forced landing and all that followed, then the round the clock effort to make the runabout structurally capable of being tractored back to the Boudicca, he had been far too busy for sleep. Lt Commander Durand seemed an efficient sort, if a bit distracted. For his part, Bob was pleased to be able to turn over command of the combined away team and rescue party and return to his primary job. He was reclining in a spare seat at the rear of the shuttle, feeling the weight of the lids of his eyes. They were well on the way to drooping shut when he heard a soft purring voice address him. . "Uhm, Chief Bob?" He reversed the plunge of his eyelids and answered Shadow equally softly, and without turning his head. He was tired enough to let his normal good manners slide just a tad. “What is it lass?” "What ARE we calling this planet?" He did turn his head at that, just in time to catch the twitch of her whiskers. ~Is she *teasing* me?~ He grunted quietly and then punted that one right back. “As ah recall… ah gave that assignment/privilege tae the science types… Mister Candle and Lieutenant Rel. Should ah consider ye as a volunteer for the job?” (Reply Shadow iyw, Any) Her tail looped in several rings, "When the bard is worried about names and not about the nameless coming out to eat you, who worries about being eaten?" She asked. "Besides, even a Chief Engineer needs his tail pulled now and then." ~Ah ken that ah’m tired… but that was mair confusin than listening tae mahself…~ “Remind me tae tell ye… or better yet ask Commander ‘cha Nooras aboot something called a ‘Zen Riddle’, when ye hae a chance, alright?” (Reply Shadow, Any) (Posted by Russ) ********** (USS Boudicca – Transient Officer Quarters – SPC LCDR Durand – 0650) The orders from BuPERS had been as brief and direct as the last had been. ‘You are hereby relieved of your position as Acting First Officer of the USS Boudicca, effective immediately. Await warp transport to your next assignment. Expected arrival Laataaskens 48-72 hours.’ He had read, and reread the order several times. He wasn’t certain he understood it, but perhaps he wasn’t supposed to. The rescue mission had been concluded successfully, no casualties, no further damage to equipment beyond the runabout itself. Though it was entirely due to the work of the original away team, of course, with a bit of help from the great crew on the rescue team. No blame was to be assessed, and certainly none should be cast upon Dorga ‘cha Nooras, either. He didn’t *know* for certain, but he suspected that she would have gotten a similar order, reducing her to the permanent position of First Officer. Given that he didn’t know where Captain Rivers was, or why she was absent, he found himself frustrated by the near complete lack of information as to the moves being made. He *wanted* to know; further, he had a responsibility and desire to check in with ‘cha Nooras. “Computer, locate Captain ‘cha Nooras.” [Captain ‘cha Nooras is in the Ready Room] With a final glance around, he slung the carryall containing his few personal effects over his shoulder and headed out. (posted by Russ) ********** (USS Boudicca – Ready Room – SPC LCDR Durand, aCO Dorga 'cha Nooras – 0655) Durand had quickly made his way to the Ready Room. He wasn’t much for long goodbyes, but he was duty bound to do this. Not only that, in the brief time he had been aboard his professional respect and admiration for the Boudicca’s acting Captain had grown immensely. “Captain? I don’t wish to trouble you, so I will keep this brief.” He handed her the PADD containing his new orders and favored her with a thin smile. There was no amused twinkle in his eye this time. Truth be told, he was sad to go. Orders are orders, and he would follow them in letter and spirit. “Is it my imagination, or didn’t we just do this a few days ago?” Dorga accepted the PADD that her aFO handed her and gave the contents her attention. She was sorry to see that he'd received orders to move on to his new assignment, she had hoped after the stellar job he'd done in finding the lost away team, that he would be allowed to remain aboard the Boudicca, he fit in well. "I am sorry to see you go, commander, and I thank you for the stellar job you have done as my number one." He nodded his head appreciatively. “That is most kind of you Captain, t hough all I really did was a little bit of management. Your people did all the work. You have some excellent individuals here, but I’m certain you know that.” "Indeed I do." She replied, feeling her chest swell inside with pride. Uncharacteristically, he hesitated briefly then continued. “If I may speak freely Ma’am?” With her usual curt one nod, she gave her permission. “I realize my time here was very short, as good things often are. I just want you to know that this crew, and the fleet, are both lucky to have you. When you have your own ship someday Captain, if you need a First Officer, give me a call. I’d be honored to serve under you again.” Dorga highly doubted that she'd ever have her own ship; she wasn't even sure she wanted her own ship. Some people were just made to be good first officers and she tended to think of herself as such, regardless of having stepped into Susan's shoes until she returned. With a wry smile she replied. "It's been an honor and privilege to have you as my acting first officer, commander, and should I ever have my own ship and require an excellent number one, you will certainly spring to mind. I'm sorry to see you go?" She told him truthfully and thrust out her right hand. He extended his hand and shook hers firmly. “Good luck to you. Permission to disembark?” "Permission granted and good luck to you too......Alan," With a big smile she added, "if you ever want a transfer our docking bays are always open to you." She walked over to the bulkhead and pressing a catch, a panel slid open revealing a small cupboard in which a few bottles gleamed alongside half a dozen glasses etched with the ship's name and motto. Choosing one bottle she poured out two fingers of the amber liquid into each of two glasses. After replacing the bottle among its companions, she shut the door and walked back to Durand to hand him one. "I know it's early to be drinking but neither of us is on duty yet and I think we should drink to friendship and duty... It's the finest malt whiskey you could ever wish to drink." Lifting her glass she said, "here's to duty and friends long gone, new friends made and future friends to come, and with the blessing of Kahless we shall meet again, my friend." “On Earth, we have a very old saying… ‘It’s five o’clock somewhere.’ He eyed the shot with a gleam of amusement, then downed it, savoring the experience almost as much as the company. He briefly considered her toast, especially the part about friends long gone. ~Learn from the past and look to the future,~ he thought, chasing away the ghosts in his mind. He smiled once again, almost all traces of his melancholy introspection gone. “I must say your toast is much more sophisticated than mine would have been… I thank you for it.” "Chalk it up to practise." The aCO told him, her smile broadening into a grin. Downing the whiskey in one shot, Dorga then threw her glass against the far wall, smashing it to pieces. There was the sound of whirring and two little cleaning bots shot out of a small opening that appeared in the wall and began to feverishly clean up the shattered glass. He clenched the empty in his hand, about to throw, then reconsidered. “Far be it from me to break tradition… but if you don’t mind I’d like to keep this one as a memento.” He tucked the glass carefully into his carryall, and came to attention. “I promised not to keep you, and I meant it… despite what I might wish to do. Best of luck, my new friend.” "May Kahless watch your path and may our paths meet again." Dorga stated. With that he turned and departed, his heart full of hope, even as his mind was still filled with questions about what was yet to come. Dorga stood watching Durand as he left the Ready Room, truly hoping that she would meet him again and then with a heavy sigh and a glance at the chronometer, she headed to the bridge to begin Alpha shift. (Reply Any, but none needed) (Posted by Sal & Russ) ********** (USS Boudicca - Bridge - CO Captain Lydia Stakes - Day 9 - 0721) Commander 'cha Nooras welcomed Lydia courteously as she stepped aside from the command chair, then announced Lydia's arrival and taking command to the ship as a whole before transferring the command codes. Lydia thanked her with a nod and took her seat. "Commander, please inform the senior staff that there will be a meeting in the Observation Lounge at 1030 hours," she said. She looked around the Bridge, noting the layout, and leant towards her new First Officer. "Would you mind putting names to the people here for me?" she asked. "And I understand that you have recently returned from an SAR, I would like a report on that please." (no reply necessary unless you want to) (posted by Liz) ************ (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - CO Captain Lydia Stakes - Day 9 - 1032) Short as her acquaintance was with the FO, Lydia somehow wasn't sur- prised that 'cha Nooras was the first to ask a question, and a pertinent one at that. "What kind of strange incidents? Am I right in gathering it is subspace river that is responsible for the strange incidents? " she asked, raising an eye- brow. Lydia shook her head. "As yet, no one knows, Number One. No doubt SF command has their theories but they are not sharing with the rest of us. Officially the crews are listed as missing presumed dead, and the ship losses listed as 'unexplained'. The first three ships that vanished were in the vicinity of one of the subspace river branches, but those since were not." Inwardly she was relieved beyond measure that Archibald and Esme had left the Mithrandir before it too had vanished but she allowed no sign of that to appear on her face. That was personal, which she had been brought up to believe was not the same as important. The last few months, however, she had begun to question that particular dictate of her father's. "However, SF command is taking no chances," she continued aloud, "which is no doubt why our orders are to avoid the river altogether." (reply any iyw, none needed) (Posted by Liz) ********** (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - SPC CCOUNS/CDR Jerome 'Hoss' ManyHorses - Day 9 - 1034) Doctor Jahlen had insisted on Jerome remaining in Sickbay for 48 hours after the severe beating he'd sustained, for observation and further treat- ment of the damage he'd undergone. Also she wanted to do some in-depth tests and scans of his brain functions to see what was at the core of his memory loss. After the 48 hours were up, he'd been allowed to return to his quarters with the computer keeping tabs on his life signs. In his quarters he had remained, until he'd received a message earlier from the First Officer to attend a meeting to meet Captain Lydia Stakes. He had heard the nurses talking about Susan having left hurriedly for Bajora, something about family problems requiring her attention, and that she'd taken the youngsters with her, which of course was expected. Apparently she'd left in such a hurry she hadn't informed him, but when he thought about it, why would she have to notify him? It wasn't as if they'd been dating for any length of time, after all one date did not a relationship make no matter how he felt about her. He had also felt the explosion rock the ship and had learned of the casualties it had caused, and the subsequent slow going to find and rescue the missing test flight team. He'd unfortunately been incapacitated during times when he might have been of use to the crew, and he had nobody to blame but himself - it was his own fault for getting beaten up. From what he could remember he had been making inquiries about some one that had upset a few people who had decided to give him a warning to keep his nose out of their business. So far he couldn't remember the name of the person of interest, but fragments of memory were returning and he was certain that he would remember eventually. After two days in Sickbay and another two spent in his quarters he had been beginning to feel a little claustrophobic so he was only to glad to attend this meeting just to see some people and interact with crew members again. Now he sat and observed the new 'temporary' CO as she introduced herself to the attendant officers and told them they were heading for Geneva. She was a pleasant looking woman, but her she also looked like a very capable person, one who had that air of natural authority that people who'd spent half a life- time leading others often seemed to have. Susan also had that as did Dorga, the first officer. His thoughts turning to Dorga he sat and watched her for a while, wondering what she thought about being replaced as CO of the ship. He didn't think she'd made such a hash of it to warrant replacement, but the thought processes of Bupers was one of those unfathomable mysteries that only they understood half the time. (Reply any) (Posted by Sal) ******** (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge – aCEO Ens(Sg.) Anton Gesar - Day 9 – 1031.5) Anton was looking over some paperwork while he was waiting for the meeting to start. A lot had happened in a short time. Engineering blew up, Lorimar nearly died on some planet, Captain Rivers had to leave on a family emergency and now they had a new Captain. Temporary, but a new Captain still. "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen," the new captain started the meeting. "Thank you all for coming. By now I'm sure you've heard the news but in case the scuttlebutt hasn't reached you yet, I have been ordered by SFHQ to take temporary command of the Boudicca pending the return of Captain Rivers. We have orders to return to Starbase Geneva immediately. There have been several strange incidents involving the 52nd's ships over the past few months and someone at Fleet HQ is getting jumpy. So we are not to use the subspace river, even though once we reach it, it would shorten our journey by some two weeks." She looked around the table again, trying to gauge their reactions. "Any questions?" she asked. "What kind of strange incidents? Am I right in gathering it is subspace river that is responsible for the strange incidents? " Dorga asked, left eyebrow rising. (posted by Oleg) ********* (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - CO Captain Lydia Stakes - Day 9 - 1032) Short as her acquaintance was with the FO, Lydia somehow wasn't surprised that 'cha Nooras was the first to ask a question, and a pertinent one at that. "What kind of strange incidents? Am I right in gathering it is subspace river that is responsible for the strange incidents? " she asked, raising an eyebrow. Lydia shook her head. "As yet, no one knows, Number One. No doubt SF command has their theories but they are not sharing with the rest of us. Officially the crews are listed as missing presumed dead, and the ship losses listed as 'unexplained'. The first three ships that vanished were in the vicinity of one of the subspace river branches, but those since were not." Inwardly she was relieved beyond measure that Archibald and Esme had left the Mithrandir before it too had vanished but she allowed no sign of that to appear on her face. That was personal, which she had been brought up to believe was not the same as important. The last few months, however, she had begun to question that particular dictate of her father's. "However, SF command is taking no chances," she continued aloud, "which is no doubt why our orders are to avoid the river altogether." (reply any iyw, none needed) (Posted by Liz) ********** (USS Boudicca - Observation Lounge - FO Dorga 'cha Nooras - Day 9 - 1033) "What kind of strange incidents? Am I right in gathering it is subspace river that is responsible for the strange incidents? " Dorga asked, raising an eyebrow. Lydia shook her head. "As yet, no one knows, Number One. No doubt SF command has their theories but they are not sharing with the rest of us. Officially the crews are listed as missing presumed dead, and the ship losses listed as 'unexplained'. The first three ships that vanished were in the vicinity of one of the subspace river branches, but those since were not." ~ Curiouser and curiouser! ~ Dorga thought, ~ I wonder where they went and if we will get to find out? ~ "However, SF command is taking no chances," The Captain continued, "which is no doubt why our orders are to avoid the river altogether." "Yes it is definitely better to be safe than sorry until we know more about what is causing these disappearances. I am wondering if the missing ships have some how been drawn into a parallel universe or dimension. That seems to be the most likely cause." (reply any, none necessary) (Posted by Sal) ********** (USS Boudicca – Main Engineering – aCEO Ens(Sg.) Anton Gesar – Day 9 – 1201) Anton was looking over the warp systems one last time. Everything was green and ready to go. “Chief Krolar, how’s everything look from your end?” (Reply Krolar) “Ok, docking clamps have been disengaged.” The ship moved away from the station and went to warp. Some engineers have claimed that they could tell at what warp a ship travels by the vibrations within the ships. ~If they can, they’re better engineers than I,~ thought Anton as he wasn’t even able to tell that the ship went to warp. ~I’d like to see them do it with these inertia dampeners.~ Anton looked over the console to make sure all was green and remaining stable. “Well Chief, looks like you were right about those warp specialists,” Anton said with a smile. (Reply Krolar, Any) (Posted by Oleg Kislyuk) ******* (USS Boudicca – Main Engineering – Master Chief PO Laurence Krolar – Day 9 – 1202) Anton was looking over the warp systems one last time. Everything was green and ready to go. “Chief Krolar, how’s everything look from your end?” "All my boards are green, we're ready for warp whenever the Captain wants it." Laurence said not looking up at the Ensign, but keeping his focus on his screens. “Ok, docking clamps have been disengaged.” The ship moved away from the station and went to warp. “Well Chief, looks like you were right about those warp specialists,” Anton said with a smile. "Yes, sir," Laurence said, "I'll let them know you approve of their work," Laurence said. He still wasn't a big fan of the Ensign but life in Star Fleet wasn't a popularity contest. Of course he was right about the Warp Specialists, he'd seen them work day in day out, he knew they were good. (Reply Gesar iyw) (Posted by Patrick D.) ********* (USS Boudicca - Botanical Garden - Yeoman Shadow to Sretalles - Day 9 - 1207) Shadow yawned as she entered the gardens for her lunch date with Parrr'Z. She'd spent the night in his quarters and his bed played havoc with her backbone. Oh, and he snored, which really didn't help much. But he was a very warm, comfy pillow to curl against and she wouldn't have gone back to her own quarters for all the world. She was pretty sure she should have said SOMETHING to him about her nebulous plans, but.. She sighed, she hadn't known she was going to take the big leap until she'd met the new captain. She was sure that Captain Stakes was a very nice lady, even if she did smell frustrated and a little depressed, but it was more than time Shadow went home while her kits were still kits. She had paths to walk still, and even if she was never an adult in the eyes of her people, she should at least face her past rather than keeping to run. She'd never be a true bard if she didn't. Her heart managed to leap in joy and twist in worry at the sight of the very handsome Caitan security officer. She greeted him with the usual cheek rubs and licks and purrs. She knew he could scent her mood, there wasn't much point in putting it all off. "Parrr'Z.. I should have talked with you about this.." She twisted her tail in her paws, "And I would have.. but meeting Captain Stakes put it all together, key in the lock and all.." (Reply Parrr'Z) She sighed, she was lucky to have him in her life, she didn't want to throw that away.. but. "I have requested a six month leave of absence from Starfleet. I am going back to Sivao to spend time with my kits while they are still kits. I want to think about what I want to do and where I want to do it. I can't be a Yeoman forever, and while the Rivers Camp will always be my celebration home, I cannot follow Captain Susan around holding her tail till the end of my days." She didn't quite blurt it all out, but she kept going strong so Parrr couldn't interrupt, "I *of course* would welcome you by my side on Sivao, but I understand your duty is as important to your heart as it is to mine." She looked up at him, green eyes trying to memorize every strand of fur, "So I ask.. would it be strange to hope your tent would still be open when I return?" (Reply Parrr'Z) (Posted by Lorna) ********** (USS Boudicca - Botanical Garden - SPC Sec/PO1 Parrr'Z - Day 9 - 1208) The blanket was spread out over the grass, the picnic basket that dear Arania had provided bursting with goodies was in the centre of it and Parr was taking some of the edibles out to place on the blanket when Shadow showed up for their lunch date. Parr was still feeling content and mellow after spending all night with Shadow sleeping in his arms in his quarters, it was a rare treat indeed, so he gave her a big, beaming smile when he saw her approaching. They greeted each other with the usual cheek rubs, licks and purrs of affection but Parr could scent that she was worried about something and wondered if she would tell him what was up or not. As they sat down side-by-side on the blanket she spoke up, twisting her tail with her paws, a sure sign that she was very troubled or uncomfortable about something. "Parrr'Z.. I should have talked with you about this... And I would have.. but meeting Captain Stakes put it all together, key in the lock and all.." "What are you trying to tell me, Shadow?" Parr asked, a bacon wrapped grilled scallop hovering enticingly at mouth level ready to pop in to the hungry cavern. Shadow sighed deeply. Whatever it was that was bothering her, she seemed to be having trouble telling him. He put the uneaten scallop down on his plate and waited for enlightenment. "I have requested a six month leave of absence from Starfleet. I am going back to Sivao to spend time with my kits while they are still kits. I want to think about what I want to do and where I want to do it. I can't be a Yeoman forever, and while the Rivers Camp will always be my celebration home, I cannot follow Captain Susan around holding her tail till the end of my days." She told him in a torrent of words, and he couldn't have got a word in even if he could have found his voice to speak. "I *of course* would welcome you by my side on Sivao, but I understand your duty is as important to your heart as it is to mine." She looked up at him with her big, beautiful green eyes. "So I ask.. would it be strange to hope your tent would still be open when I return?" Parr picked up the scallop and chewed on it thoughtfully, not really tasting it and most certainly no longer having his normally huge appetite. The thought of losing Shadow even just for six months was heart wrenching for she was as much a part of him as his own heart. No...she *was* his heart and soul. He looked at her, his loving gaze flowing over her from head to toes and pulled her gently into his arms to hug her close, one paw stroking the soft fur of her neck, shoulders and back tenderly. "You are right, my heart... Duty is very important to me." He stated, licking her ear lightly, lovingly, "but there is something far more important to me than duty, and that is my love for you. "If you really want me to come with you to Sivao then I will request a six month leave of absence also. I would miss you far too much to be apart from you that long and besides, I should meet your kits..." He did not add what he was thinking, that he hoped some day to be their subs- titute father and officially paw-fasted with Shadow. Perhaps, if she accepted him, they could have the pairing ceremony on Siavo and return to their berths on the Boudicca as what Starfleet called, a married couple. Maybe the kits would even want to come back with them. (Reply Shadow, any) (Posted by Sal) ********* (USS Boudicca - Botanical Garden - Crewman Shadow to Sretalles - Day 9 - 1209) "You are right, my heart... Duty is very important to me." He stated, licking her ear lightly, lovingly, "but there is something far more important to me than duty, and that is my love for you. "If you really want me to come with you to Sivao then I will request a six month leave of absence also. I would miss you far too much to be apart from you that long and besides, I should meet your kits..." Shadow blinked up blankly at her mate for several heartbeats, she'd never thought Parrr'Z would be willing to take a leave, especially on such short notice. "You would truly come with me?" (Reply Parrr) It was a good thing Parrr was a warrior with lightning fast reflexes, it meant when Shadow pounced on him in glee he was able to direct his tumble away from flattening the picnic basket. "Really and truly?" She said, tail spiralling into a tight corkscrew as she lay on top of him, wondering if those purring noises Parrr liked would be over the top. (Reply Parrr) She buried her face against his chest and squeezed her arms around him, happiest person on the ship she was sure. Parrr might drive her buggy, but she wanted him around to do it! Besides, it would do him good to sleep in a tent for a few months and travel the jungles. It might make him take her a bit more seriously sometimes. Though, he had been pretty good since their visit to Planet not-Bob. After a few minutes of lying entwined, Shadow's nose twitched, "You brought potato salad?" she asked, rhetorically as she pretty much ditched Parrr in favour of a stomach that had announced hunger. Or at least, she was pretty sure that's what it was, she hadn't felt hunger for anything in more years. She decided this was heaven, tuna sandwiches, potato salad and a handsome male. (Reply Parrr'Z, any) (Posted by Lorna) *********** (USS Boudicca - Botanical Garden - Sec/PO1 Parrr'Z - Day 9 - 1210) Shadow appeared to be somewhat stunned by Parr's decision to take a leave of absence for six months in order to be with her on Sivao, as if she could hardly believe her ears. "You would truly come with me?" She asked. The Caitian grinned and nodded, and then squawked with surprise as she launched herself at him causing him to lose his balance. Luckily his reflexes were cat-like and he managed to avoid squashing the picnic basket filled with goodies. "Really and truly?" She said, her tail doing all kinds of loopy things as she lay on top of him. "Really and truly!" He replied, "I have at least a year's worth or more of vacation time owed to me, I don't see any problem with being granted this leave." She buried her face against his chest and hugged him, and he wrapped his arms around her, and they just lay there entwined in blissful joy together for several minutes. "You brought potato salad?" she suddenly asked, disentangling herself from his embrace to help herself to some food. Parr sat up and figured he may as well eat too, because his appetite had returned with a vengeance... and so they munched lunch together in companionable silence, that's if you didn't consider the sounds of chewing and contented purring to be real sounds. ~ As soon as I return to the Security Department I will request my leave of absence. ~ He thought, licking mayo off his whiskers. The more he thought about going to Sivao with Shadow, the more excited he felt. She had told him a lot about how her people lived and of the jungles there and the varied wildlife. He was sure they would go on many hunts together, and perhaps they could even go on her walk in to adulthood as it seemed to matter so much to her. (Reply Shadow iyw, any) (Posted by Sal) ================================================ ================================================ Mission Going Dutch Day 10 Stardate 2408.12.12 ================================================ ================================================ (USS Boudicca - Guest Quarters - SPC Captain Justin Von Rache - Day 10 – 0958) Justin finished up getting dressed and walked up to the replicator. "Coffee, sweet with cream," he said and the coffee materialised in front of him. He picked up the cup and took a sip. They have been guests of Starfleet for a day now. Their ship damaged beyond repair and deemed unsalvagable. He was able to go back and retrieve a few personal things but that was all. Since they had no ship and they could not leave them stranded, the Captain agreed to give them a ride to Starbase Geneva. Justin looked over at Garna sleeping in bed. She always liked to sleep in when she was not on duty. Brinn was in his own quarters next door. Probably sitting there trying not to jump out of his skin. He spent most of his life trying to avoid Star- fleet entanglements and now here he was on a Stafleet ship, under guard no less. Sipping his coffee Justin walked up to the door to the quarters. As it opened the security officer posted outside turned toward the door. "Something I can help you with sir?" "Yes, I believe I had requested to see the Captain yesterday and was told I would have to wait until today. So if it is not too much trouble, I would appreciate you contacting your superiors and telling them that I need to speak to the Captain. It's important. Oh and tell the Captain that we will need so speak somewhere private." (posted by Oleg) ******** (USS Boudicca - Captains Ready Room - SPC Captain Justin Von Rache - Day 10 – 1310) The Captain had finally decided to see him. Certainly made him wait a little while, so he wouldn't feel like he was some important guest who can just demand to see the captain. Justin was glad to see that Susan had not lost her touch. His escort led him up to the door of the Captain's Ready Room and pressed the call button. The door opened and Justin stepped inside. "Captain Rivers it's a...." Justin stopped short as the doors closed behind him and he realized that it wasn't Susan who was sitting in the chair behind the Captain's desk. "My apologies Captain, I was under the assumption that Captain Rivers is the commanding officer on the Boudicca." (Reply Stakes) (Posted by Oleg Kislyuk) ******** (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO Captain Lydia Stakes - Day 10 – 1311) Lydia had not been pleased to find that some officious busy-body at Laatstekans had seen fit to use her ship as a passenger transport without so much as a by-your-leave. She hadn't discovered until they were underway that Rache and his confederates had been quartered on *her* ship. Under guard, but still. She had contacted both fleet command and Laatstekans and was now awaiting the arrival of Rache, who had apparently been asking to see her. Or more likely, she suspected, Captain Rivers. She wondered if anyone had bothered to tell him that Captain Rivers was no longer in charge here, and rather doubted it. She had given her orders and now awaited the arrival of Rache. She was, she realised, rather looking forward to this. The door-chime sounded and she gave permission for him to enter. The expression on his face when he saw her was confirmation that he hadn't expected to see her. "Captain Rivers it's a...." Rache broke off, paused, and then continued, "My apologies Captain, I was under the assumption that Captain Rivers is the commanding officer on the Boudicca." "Assumptions, Mister Rache, are a dangerous thing to make," Lydia said. "Don't sit down, you won't be here long. There is a life-pod prepped and waiting for you - your companions are even now being taken there under armed guard. There is a replicator on board. It shouldn't take you more than a month to get back to Laatstekans, anywhere else will of course take longer. The Starfleet commander there has been made aware of your possible arrival and will ensure that you all remain under guard until the arrival of a suitable vessel if you choose to return there. Where you do choose to go is of course your choice," she added with a cold smile that didn't reach her eyes. She pressed a button on her desk and three armed security officers entered, led by Lieutenant Trei. "Ah, Lieutenant, please escort Mister Rache to the life-pod to join his com- panions. Mister Rache, I have read your record and spoken to SFHQ. I would like to say that this has been a pleasure but unfortunately regulations do not allow me to have you all thrown out of the nearest airlock. Goodbye." She watched as Trei led his prisoner out of the Ready Room, and as the door closed behind them she sat back and smiled. Sometimes it paid to have contacts. (reply any, none) (Posted by Liz) <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End of Compile 1 of 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>