Day: 2 - 1645 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante – Bridge – ATAC Ensign (jg) V’Shera – 1645) Ensign V’Shera had just entered the Bridge to relieve her Vulcan subordinate on Tactical. She never got the opportunity to do that. The bridge was in state of controlled panic. There was a lot bridge cross-talk about an urgent distress call from administrator name Sorvex, who said his mining colony was under attack from the Rosenante. ~A clear impossibility,~ thought V’Shera. ~Perhaps the Bardon Mining Colony’s attacker was a star ship just claiming to be the Rose. Or, perhaps, the marauding star ship had some immense holo-emitter system that allowed it to mimic the sensor configuration of the Rose.~ Even as all these thoughts raced through V’Shera’s mind, both Captain Salid and Commander Caskie were issuing orders to various officers below them. Among those they contacted were Mr. Jackson, 30 Nayati, Lt. Raschen, Combat Nurse E’Mpak and medical staff V’Shera didn’t know. The aim of this immediate away team mobilization was SOP search, patient treatment, security and basic fact-finding. "Mister Jackson, I want you and Smith to be ready to beam down to the planet. I want you to pull any records in the facilities computers. I want to know their production schedules as well as any data concerning shipments and anything associated with this attack. Have Chief Sheridan take your place on the Bridge. Take Ensign Rixx as well, you may need an engineer.” After Lt. Jackson accepted the Captain’s assignment, CO Salid spoke to V’Shera. "Mister V'Shera. You'll be handling security on the Away team." “I’m glad you were thinking of me, Captain,” V’Shera said. V’Shera then executed a precise about-face and went quick-time to the bridge’s double doors. Behind her, V’Shera heard Captain Salid tell Mister Dralar to accelerate the Rose to warp 9 and bring the ship to Red Alert status. [Red Alert.] [Red Alert.] Since the bridge was the most vital station on the Rose there was a turbo-lift only a few steps away from V’Shera’s current location. Even before V’Shera reached the turbo-lift door, she was tapping her commbadge. “Security Yeoman 1st Class Roderick, V’Shera here. I need you get six of your best people armed and ready for high risk security mission to Bardon Mining Colony. The colony is currently under attack by some sort of rogue star ship. It’s identity is currently unknown. “Turbo-lift, Ensign V’Shera’s Personal Quarters.” (USS Rosenante - Turbo-lift – ATAC Ensign (jg) V’Shera – 1648) As the turbo-lift began its descent, V’Shera continued talking. “ETA there is 1745. We will be making immediate planet upon our ETA there. You need to rendezvous with me in Transporter Room 1, no later than 1715 ready for immediate transport.” =^=V’Shera, First Class Roderick here. Message heard and understood, Sir. I and six of my best we’ll be there armed and ready to go, Fowler out.=^= “Can’t wait, Mister Roderick, V’Shera out.” ========================= Day 2 - 1645, 1712, 1750 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante, Transporter room 1, ACMO Esn Kimiko Ichijo- Day 2 - 1645) Kimiko checked the contents of her medkit for the third time to insure that everything was in there. She pointedly ignored the strained silence while doing such. ~I know the chief has a has a burning question, but I’m not going to answer it~ She wanted to leave and come back when the room was little less….. vacant, but loathed to appear like an idiot who can’t tell time. ~so I suppose better an idiot who arrives thirty minutes early- damned if you do….~ Kimiko was saved from further introspection by the serendipitous arrival of Ensign Lopez. "Are you ready for this mission?" Sam asked. Kimiko cocked her head and stated “As I’ll ever be. Probably even more so if we find out what is going on” (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room 1 - ACMO- Esn Kimiko Ichijo- Day 2 - 1712) Striding into the room, the commander appeared to be in a less then pleased mood. It seemed that her glare burned right through Kimiko. "Right." she snapped “Let's get to the briefing." "Approximately about one hour ago this ship received a distress call from the Boronite Mining Colony in the Baradon Sector. It was under attack from a rogue vessel and had suffered serious casualties." ~Rouge vessel?~ Kimiko thought to herself. "We are beaming down to recover any casualties and to render any aid and assistance that we can hence the preponderance of medical personal on our team. Lt Jackson has been tasked with his own mission and he will oversee this himself." We will beam down in this order.. Firstly all the security teams who will secure the facility and advise the rest of us that it is safe. Secondly Lt Nayati and I will beam down with the medical team. Ensign Lopez. You are the senior Medical Officer present.. Please organize your teams so that they understand their roles before they beam down." "Finally Mr Jackson and his team will beam down" "Are there any questions?" Kimiko half raised her hand “Given that we are sending away mission, I could reasonably presume that the urmm.. hostiles have vacated the area. If so every minute that one spends securing the area, is one less for responding to a potential crisis.” The Doctor took a deep breath and continued. “I don’t wish to appear as if I am informing Security how to do their job, but if one could secure the area, say- what is that?- line of sight of where we are coming down at, then Medical can start a bit sooner” After there seemed to be no more questions, Ensign Lopez said. " I want us to split into two teams one commanded by myself and other by Ensign Ichijo. My team will be me and E'Mpak and the other team will be Ensign Ichijo and Mr. Fuller. My team will take the east side of the complex and your team will take the west side. Are there any questions?" Kimiko thought for a moment and decided that there was really nothing to input. (Boronite Mining Facility - Main Corridor - ACMO- Esn Kimiko Ichijo- Day 2 - 1750) Moving everyone away from the transport site she turned to Lopez. "Deploy your teams Mr Lopez. Lt Nayati and I will make our way to the Control Room." "yes,sir."Sam turned to the teams"you all have your orders, but first check for any survivors in this area." Sam turned and headed to the first body he saw. Kimiko headed in the other direction. This was about what she expected for an attack, but it didn’t make it any easier. Shattered supports crushed anything in their path, the heavy smell of burned steel warred with the sickly sweet smell of burning flesh. Kimiko bent over the first corpse. Not much to save, with visible brain matter. ========================= Day 2 - 1647 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (ISS Rosenante - Ready Room - FO - Cmdr Jennifer Caskie (MU) - Day 2 - 1647) "I'm glad that you're honest with me Jennifer. I'd have hated to have someone ruin that pretty little face of yours. Protect yourself, by all means, but remember who the captain of this ship is. I hold people responsible for the actions of those in their camp." He turned and looked out of the windows. "This place makes me sick, Jennifer. People here are so weak, so fragile. It's all I can do to tolerate the thought of being here. We'll complete our weapon and deploy it against the Sunali sun. If everything works out we'll be back in our own universe soon enough." Jennifer's mouth stretched into a wide grin. "I believe the expression you are looking for Sir is 'It's a nice place for a holiday, but you wouldn't want to live here.' But I agree this universe lacks excitement. It's far too tame. There is very little here for people like us." He looked up at her, his face somber. "Ian seems to have joined the rebellion, Jennifer. The reports are that he seized the Romero and defected." He reached into his desk drawer and removed a PADD. He handed it to her. "Ian wrote a letter of intent. He sent it directly to the Regent. Secured it with his own security codes. Rodrigo was so angry he had two admirals executed." "I was asked if I thought you were a traitor to the Union; If you were anything like your son. I told them that you were a loyal subject of the Union, and that I believed that you would never jeopardize the safety of the fleet or the Regent. They ordered me to watch you and report any aberrant behaviour." Jennifer sighed and shook her head. "He always was a sentimental fool. Just like his father. I should have dealt with him when I dealt with Donald." "You know well enough how the Union treats the family of traitors. You'll only be safe as long as I am protecting you. If anything happens to me, they'll hunt you down and execute you." He paused and looked her in the eye. A smile spread across his face. "So now you're mine, to protect or not as I decide. You did me a service once. I am doing one for you now." A slow matching smile spread across Jennifer's face as the implications hit her. "Very nicely done Sir. Not only have you put a total stop to any chance that I might challenge you for the Captaincy of this ship in the future, but you have made sure that for me to survive I have to make sure that you survive. I thank you for that service Captain. Rest assured that, as in the past, all my considerable resources are at your immediate service." Ahmed allowed his smile to drop and returned to business. "We reach our next destination in 5 days. Hexikor Prime and Hexikor Alpha. They are a pair of artificial world stations built by the Bynars to conduct highly advanced experiments. In our world they are exceptionally heavily defended. That's not likely to be the case." "The details of our next mission are on that PADD. We'll need to take Smith. He knows the Bynars better than anyone. Look over the details and consult those necessary." "The main prize that we are after are an experimental Class 11 computer. It uses bio-neural circuitry to mimic humanoid synaptic functions, as well as several other components listed on that PADD which will allow us to build a paratrinic shield generator and a phased cloaking device for the weapon." "You have your orders commander. You are dismissed." At those words Jennifer straightened. "Aye Sir. I will be in my office should you need me." Turning she left and headed towards her office, her face changing from one of compliance to fury as soon as she left the room. Pity any poor soul who happened to simply meet her in the corridor. The mood she was in she would probably kill them outright for merely looking at her. ========================= Day: 2 - 1650 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante - Turbo-lift – ATAC Ensign (jg) V’Shera – 1650) As the turbo-lift began its descent, V’Shera continued talking. “ETA there is 1745. We will be making immediate planet upon our ETA there. You need to rendezvous with me in Transporter Room 1, no later than 1715 ready for immediate transport.” =^=V’Shera, First Class Fowler here. Message heard and understood, Sir. I and six of my best we’ll be there armed and ready to go, Fowler out.” “Can’t wait, Mister Fowler, V’Shera out.” Well armed, dressed in her reinforced combat fatigues, V’Shera arrived just ahead of First Class Fowler and six of the roughest, toughest Andorians , Humans and Human-Bajorians that V’Shera had distinct the privilege of serving with. In Transporter Room I Commander Caskie gave a brief, impromptu outline the beam down mission in general. Lt. Jackson, 30 Nayati and all the rest got their assigned duties. V’Shera divided up her security people between medical and engineering. V’Shera assigned herself to the engineering away team because she seemed to have better luck dealing with machines than with people per se, Once that was done, the general beam down of assigned personal began. ========================= Day 2 - 1700 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious, Ready Room, FO Cmdr Erin Sloane, Day 2 - 1700) Erin settled into the chair opposite of the Captain as the other two officers filed into the room behind her; two very intelligent officers, whose opinions and thoughts would be instrumental in the coming moments. After everyone had positioned themselves comfortably Saleke began the impromptu meeting, shifting in his chair to look at each one in turn. "Before I ask each of you for your input on the message we received I will make my stand on the matter clear, I find it illogical that a Federation ship under orders from Starfleet with an exemplary record and not assigned to this sector will be found culpable in the attack on a remote mining colony. Having said that every possibility shall be thoroughly investigated and any means necessary to bring the perpetrators of the purported attack to justice shall be taken." Erin nodded. "The matter under question then at this time is if the attacking ship is the Rosenante then why they would announce their identity to the mining colony before attacking and allow them to broadcast it, why such an attack might be initiated and whether the message might have a veiled motive." He sat back in his chair and opened the floor as the Bolian/Human tactical officer entered the chamber. "As you are all experienced officers I am asking you for your insights on the matter." "Well Captain," Matthew began." While I agree with you that the Rosenante is not the most likely culprit for such and attack for a number of reasons, let's work under a theoretical exercise concerning potential motive for such an attack as well as a good tactical reason for announcing themselves." Before Matthew could continue, Mister Williams entered the ready room carrying a PADD that presumably contained the Tactical information from the Rosenante. He handed the PADD to the CO. After accepting the PADD Saleke stopped the man. "Mr. Williams please remain, your tactical input could prove useful." Andrus replied " Certainly Sir" and took a seat. With a brief nod, Matthew then continued his comments. "Boronite has a large number of uses including starship construction, and other advanced fabrication techniques. Additionally, with proper refinement and processing it can be broken down in certain limited use reactors for minor energy generation. That is to say that Boronite atoms can be split in a sort of fusion to produce some energy, however as far as that process is concerned the yield is not adequate, and the equipment is complicated for the potential return on investment. Additionally, the fuel is expended quickly so it would not be feasible to capture enough to power anything significant for more than a few hours." "Additionally, the Rosenante's current reactor system could not be converted to utilize Boronite as a fuel without significant refit, besides such a refit would be counter productive. That would mean that if the Rosenante is responsible, there would have to be another use for the material other than as fuel or fissionable materials." "Metallurgically speaking, boronite ore is inferior to anything that the Rosenante could replicate using their own industrial replicators. For that matter, they could more easily reconfigure their own replicators to create Boronite ore. That would logically exclude their need to steal raw or even refined ore for the purpose of producing Metal plating or ingots." "So again we're back to the fact that the boronite must be needed for some other as of yet undefined use. The only advantage that I can see to hijacking boronite from a facility would be related to the refined purity of the Boronite. A starship's industrial replicators can only produce an 80% pure boronite powder at best, so whatever the boronite would be used for, it must have needed to be more pure than that." Erin nodded, then asked. "If it more pure than 80%, what sort of things could it be used for?" Matthew shrugged. "not much really. You could convert it into particularly pure plate or ingots for construction purposes, but the material is inferior to several other more readily available metals. You could convert it into fissionable materials for energy production or to enhance photon torpedo warheads or maybe quantums, but only marginally. The refined boronite is difficult to process, it's basically a super fine powder, purified by a bipolatic ion treatment. You have to set up a handling center and that could take a few days. I can't see any significant benefit to stealing something like this consummate with the risk." Erin frowned, then looked at the Captain, "So besides the potential mystery of the attack to begin with, what would the gain be that would outweigh the risk of the consequences?" She asked. "This isn't adding up, there has to be a piece of the puzzle that we are missing somewhere." Matthew nodded. "On top of that I did some research on the Rosenante since I was transferring there. Captain Salid served with the 52nd Fleet during the civil war. He served on the Nimitz under Captain Sash as his chief Engineer. Then later he served as the First Officer of the Champlain. When the Champlain was destroyed, he was acting First officer of the USS Hypatia, and then was assigned to Utopia as a member of the stations senior engineering crew for a few months, until he was reinstated as First officer of the Rosenante under Captain Rivers. When she was recalled to testify in a War Crimes Tribunal, he was promoted to Captain. His profile doesn't fit a psychopathic maniac." "Besides, the Rosenante is a heavily armed ship. She has more available power than any other vessel in the fleet, and her firepower is significant. She was designed to be a raider by Doenitz's engineers. She may have been refit as an explorer, but she's an explorer with the heart of a heavy privateer. That ship has enough equipment to jam that facility well before they ever got within detection range. She has a cloaking system and enough weapons to make quick work of that facility without breaking a sweat." Matthew shook his head, "There's no reason that he would sacrifice his career for little to no gain. If the Rosenante is here, it's most likely not under Captain Salid's control in my opinion." Erin turned to look at Williams. "Mister Williams tell us about the Rosenante's Command crew and her tactical capability." she said. ========================= Day 2 - 1701 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's READY Room - Ensign Adnrus Williams - SEC/TAC - Day 2 - 1701) "Sir''s here is the command staff as well as the Rosenante's department heads" Andrus stated. Commanding Officer, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Human First Officer, Lieutenant Commander Jennifer Caskie - Human Second Officer, Lieutenant (SG) T'Larah Sullivan - Vulcan/Human Third Officer, Lieutenant (JG) Jon Nayati - Human Department Heads include: Operations - LT Tom Jackson Engineering - LT Alimi Morrow Medical - LT (Dr.) Wyler. Science - Ensign Maddox Security -Lt Chance Raschen He displayed the listing and allowed time for the other senior officers to read thru the list. "Are there questions Sir?" Andrus asked. Andrus continued his briefing. "Captain, here are the weapons data I have been able to assemble" Andrus added. Defensive Systems Phasers Phaser Type: XII Phaser locations: 12 Primary Hull dorsal arrays capable of 360 degrees of firing, 6 secondary hull arrays. 8.0.2 Torpedo Launchers Photon Launcher Locations: four fixed-focus torpedo launchers. Two forward, below vertical centerline flanking the main deflector dish, and two below vertical centerline aft, offset to the beam of the vessel. Each is capable of firing off five torpedoes in a single salvo. Photon Torpedo Type: XXV, self-guided Photon Complement: 200 Quantum Launcher Locations: 1 Forward center Dorsal, 1 aft center dorsal, Rapid-Pulse Firing System. Each is capable of firing off two torpedoes in a single salvo. Quantum Complement: 150 8.0.3 Defensive Shields and Armor Primary Shields: Standard DEA Auto-Modulation Regenerative Shields Secondary Shields: Experimental DECS, Auto-Modulated Armor: Ablative Hull Armor over critical areas. 8.0.4 Tractor Beams Tractor Beams: 6, 1 Center forward Dorsal, 1 center Forward Ventral, 1 Center After Dorsal, 1 Center Aft Ventral, 1 Center Starboard, 1 Center Port Central "Questions Sirs?" he asked the other officers "Also Sirs, the Rosenante has the following SERDACS Damage Control System, HISS Stealth System ERS Systems SEDIS DICOMMS " Andrus Williams marvelled at the weaponry of the Rosenante. His opinion was that if a fight occurred, it would be close match up. ========================= Day 2, 1702 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's Ready Room - Captain Saleke - Day 2 , 1702) Having thrown open the door of the meeting Saleke watched and listened intently as Lt. Commander McLaren spoke about the possible uses for the boronite mined and purified at the facility. The latter stages of the technical dissertation summed up his own conclusions in reply to Commander Sloane's insightful question. "f it more pure than 80%, what sort of things could it be used for?" The ATT shrugged. "not much really. You could convert it into particularly pure plate or ingots for construction purposes, but the material is inferior to several other more readily available metals. You could convert it into fissionable materials for energy production or to enhance photon torpedo warheads or maybe quantums, but only marginally. The refined boronite is difficult to process, it's basically a super fine powder, purified by a bipolatic ion treatment. You have to set up a handling center and that could take a few days. I can't see any significant benefit to stealing something like this consummate with the risk." Commander Sloane frowned and looked toward the vulcan. "So besides the potential mystery of the attack to begin with, what would the gain be that would outweigh the risk of the consequences?" She asked. "This isn't adding up, there has to be a piece of the puzzle that we are missing somewhere." He nodded slightly in reply. "We will discuss other possibilities later. Continue." Mr. McLaren then gave an objective review of both the Rosenante's Captain and ship's capabilities. One point he brought up was appropo. "That ship has enough equipment to jam that facility well before they ever got within detection range. She has a cloaking system and enough weapons to make quick work of that facility without breaking a sweat." ~Indeed, a highly illogical gaffe from a seasoned command officer.~ "There's no reason that he would sacrifice his career for little to no gain. If the Rosenante is here, it's most likely not under Captain Salid's control in my opinion." Following that Erin turned to the tactical officer. "Mister Williams tell us about the Rosenante's Command crew and her tactical capability." "Commanding Officer, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Human First Officer, Lieutenant Commander Jennifer Caskie - Human Second Officer, Lieutenant (SG) T'Larah Sullivan - Vulcan/Human Third Officer, Lieutenant (JG) Jon Nayati - Human." After rattling off the command crew he presented the senior officer corps. The ship's tactical capabilities were also meticulously documented. One piece of imformation was particularly striking. "Primary Shields: Standard DEA Auto-Modulation Regenerative Shields Secondary Shields: Experimental DECS, Auto-Modulated." The Furious like all Prometheus class designs had standard class IV shielding as backup while the Rosenante sported the newest of Starfleet tactical shielding which could be used to protect the ship should its primaries fail as well as being of benefit to the ship's cloaking system because of its smaller cross section. Saleke had been briefed on this advancement during his rehabilitation, because of its newness and experimental nature it was not yet widely available in the fleet. The stealth system was likewise improved among others, the Rosenante should it come to blows would be a formidable enemy for the Furious and Saleke was not in the habit of fighting fairly, when called upon to fulfill a mission he found that to give his ship and crew the greatest probability of victory was both practical and logical. "Dr. Gralen," He turned his attention to the Betazoid. "Your comments?" Holis shook his head in amazement. "The whole idea boggles the mind captain, a botched attack for a near worthless or at least unnecessary metal." He watched Saleke closely but the vulcan had a near perfect poker face, near perfect in that if surprised he was prone to raising an eyebrow but there had been no hint of that here. Holis had served with Saleke long enough to know when the conversation was being directed by the captain, no not directed ... manipulated. The vulcan was using them as a sounding board all right to do what he had told Holis long ago. ~To arrive at the logical conclusion you must first consider and eliminate the illogical.~ "Boronite is not valuable enough for a man to risk his career and reputation for captain according to the information we possess and you know it. I agree with Matthew on this, if is it is the Rosenante either the one in charge is a complete babe in the woods regarding the very basics of command strategy or out of his lunatic mind." Holis shook his head with a gruff look as he anticipated the captain's comment and forestalled it. "And no that's not a medical opinion. If you want MY opinion I'd say someone has pulled the wool over the eyes of the miners and allowed them to send a message implicating someone else. Why they would pick a ship that's not even in this sector..." he shrugged helplessly. "Who knows. My question to you then captain is this. What WOULD be the logical reason for someone attacking that mining facility?" After speaking Holis crossed his arms and returned the vulcan's look. After matching Holis' look for a moment he looked about the assemblage. "There is a very real danger here gentlemen that I am not at liberty to discuss in depth, however I will say this." He looked them each in the eyes one after another. "Highly refined boronite being defined as that metal being more than eighty percent pure may be used to construct an explosive 'Doomsday' device. The full details have been confined to officers of flag rank only therefore by orders I may not dispense that information. In the hands of a conspirator or conspirators who possess the technical knowledge to fabricate the device it would be a weapon of terror on an interstellar scale." "The orders of every captain in the fleet are very clear, anyone found to be attempting to fabricate such a weapon are to be stopped no matter the cost." He caught Holis' gaze again. "No matter who we find to be responsible we shall uphold that directive." His eyes traveled about the group again, weighing their reaction as he announced. "Even if it is the Rosenante and her command crew and senior officers have been imprisoned aboard her we will carry out that directive." After everyone had soaked in the enormity of his announcement and discussion had ended he began giving orders to cover the contingencies. "Doctor Gralen and Mr. McLaren we have five hours to prepare before arriving at the system and we shall prepare for the worst of eventualities. We have a number of torpedo spares in storage, I want a minimum of six converted to include a phase cloak that even the Rosenante's formidable shields will not be able to protect her against. If they are found to be necessary I will not hesitate to use them." He looked at Andrus. "Mr. Williams I will expect you to interface with these officers and have them ready for use if and when the time comes." Holis eyes must have gotten as big as saucers, at least they felt that way. "Between us I'm sure we can do it captain but are you sure it's necessary? The vulcans' look didn't change an iota. Holis sighed. "In incorporating the circuitry in the quantums we might have a decrease in explosive yield to something like a photon torp." Saleke nodded in reply. "It will do doctor, is there anything else?" "Well yes." The betazoid added. "I'd like to speak with you for a moment after this meeting." "It will have to be short Doctor, you have a great deal of work to do." Saleke looked at the other officers. "You have your orders gentlemen, Commander Sloane please remain, I will wish to speak with you after Dr Gralen is finished." ========================= Day 2 , 1703 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's Ready Room - ATT- Lt Cmdr. - Matthew McLaren - Day 2 , 1703) The captain listened intently as Matthew rattled off the few rote facts that he knew about boronite. And after Matthew had answered the first officer's questions as well, there was a brief informational session concerning the Rosenante's command staff, department heads and tactical capabilities. Matthew mentally whistled in appreciation, but at the same time he desperately hoped that they wouldn't be facing that ship tactically anytime soon. The conversation was then directed to Commander Gralen. Dr. Gralen," the captain said turning his attention to the Betazoid. "Your comments?" Holis shook his head in amazement. "The whole idea boggles the mind captain, a botched attack for a near worthless or at least unnecessary metal. Boronite is not valuable enough for a man to risk his career and reputation for captain according to the information we possess and you know it. I agree with Matthew on this, if is it is the Rosenante either the one in charge is a complete babe in the woods regarding the very basics of command strategy or out of his lunatic mind." Holis shook his head with a gruff look as he anticipated the captain's comment and forestalled it. "And no that's not a medical opinion. If you want MY opinion I'd say someone has pulled the wool over the eyes of the miners and allowed them to send a message implicating someone else. Why they would pick a ship that's not even in this sector..." he shrugged helplessly. "Who knows. My question to you then captain is this. What WOULD be the logical reason for someone attacking that mining facility?" After speaking Holis crossed his arms and returned the Vulcan's look. ~Now there is the million dollar question.~ Matthew thought. it was a question that he would like to know the answer to. After matching Holis' look for a moment the captain looked about the assemblage. "There is a very real danger here gentlemen that I am not at liberty to discuss in depth, however I will say this." He looked them each in the eyes one after another. "Highly refined boronite being defined as that metal being more than eighty percent pure may be used to construct an explosive 'Doomsday' device. The full details have been confined to officers of flag rank only therefore by orders I may not dispense that information. In the hands of a conspirator or conspirators who possess the technical knowledge to fabricate the device it would be a weapon of terror on an interstellar scale." "Seems a bit odd that command would want to classify such information to the point that it would force us to stumble around in the dark looking for clues." Matthew commented. "The orders of every captain in the fleet are very clear, anyone found to be attempting to fabricate such a weapon are to be stopped no matter the cost." He caught Holis' gaze again. "No matter who we find to be responsible we shall uphold that directive." His eyes traveled about the group again, weighing their reaction as he announced. "Even if it is the Rosenante and her command crew and senior officers have been imprisoned aboard her we will carry out that directive." "You're telling me that this is worse than the Genesis device?" Erin asked rhetorically then. "It would have to be pretty terrible to have an 'at all costs' tag associated with it." There were a few moments of silence in which Matthew almost imagined that he could hear the wheels turning in the heads of the assembled officers. "Doctor Gralen and Mr. McLaren," The captain finally continued. "We have five hours to prepare before arriving at the system and we shall prepare for the worst of eventualities. We have a number of torpedo spares in storage, I want a minimum of six converted to include a phase cloak that even the Rosenante's formidable shields will not be able to protect her against. If they are found to be necessary I will not hesitate to use them." He looked at Andrus. "Mr. Williams I will expect you to interface with these officers and have them ready for use if and when the time comes." "That's a tall order Captain." Matthew replied. "I don't know that we can guarantee six, but we'll get you what we can." Holis eyes got as big as saucers, at least they felt that way. "Between us I'm sure we can do it captain but are you sure it's necessary?" Holis sighed. "In incorporating the circuitry in the quantums we might have a decrease in explosive yield to something like a photon torp." Saleke nodded in reply. "It will do doctor, is there anything else?" "Well yes." The Betazoid added. "I'd like to speak with you for a moment after this meeting." "It will have to be short Doctor, you have a great deal of work to do." Saleke replied. "One other detail Captain, the phase cloak won't be able to run constantly. It won't be able to operate until just before impact. Otherwise, we may not get much of a yield at all. The power requirements will improve if we delay the cloak until the last possible moment." Saleke looked at the other officers. "You have your orders gentlemen, Commander Sloane please remain, I will wish to speak with you after Dr Gralen is finished." Erin nodded. Matthew turned and looked at the other two men. "I'll head to Torpedo magazine one and start drawing the torpedoes for conversion. We'll do the work in the cargo bay so that we have plenty of room." Matthew then turned and left the ready room, there was a great deal of work to be done. ========================= Day 2 - 1703.5 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's Ready Room - Ensign Andrus Williams - Day 2 , 1703.5) Andrus's face glowed a deep blue whenever he was excited or nervous. Right now he was both! Andrus had supplied the information Saleke had requested. He sat and listened to Lt. Commander McLaren amplify the data he had presented earlier. Cmdr Holis spoke about a possible use of the Boronite and along with Dr. Gralen, indicated the potential for a weapon more powerful than the Genesis device. His knowledge of the Genesis device was a bit limited - it was classified on a 'Need to Know' basis. The Vulcan captain's stare was direct and made Andrus nervous. He knew Captain Saleke was known for getting things done. This situation was the most critical Andrus had had to face. Salek continued to amplify what he wanted with "Doctor Gralen and Mr. McLaren," The captain finally continued. "We have five hours to prepare before arriving at the system and we shall prepare for the worst of eventualities. We have a number of torpedo spares in storage, I want a minimum of six converted to include a phase cloak that even the Rosenante's formidable shields will not be able to protect her against. If they are found to be necessary I will not hesitate to use them." He looked at Andrus. "Mr. Williams I will expect you to interface with these officers and have them ready for use if and when the time comes." "That's a tall order Captain." Matthew replied. "I don't know that we can guarantee six, but we'll get you what we can." Andrus replied "Aye Sir" when tasked to work with the Doctor and McLaren. His mind was running through what he had to do to comply with the Captain's orders. Things were heating up and heating up fast! ========================= Day 2 - 1704 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room One - ACEO - Ensign (jg) Mitena Rixx - Day 2 - 1704) Mitena hurried into the transporter room not wanting to be late for her meeting with Rosenbauer. She scanned around the room and noted the people who were already there. Undoubtedly, they were part of the away team as well. She recognized the doctor from the captain's meeting, but hadn't met her yet. All things considered, now wasn't really the time to make introductions. Spotting the most likely candidate to be Rosenbauer, she headed toward him. "Excuse me sir." She said, "Ensign Rixx, reporting as requested." She smiled slightly, hoping she'd picked the correct individual to report in to. ========================= Day 2 - 1705 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room One - SO - Ensign Mike Rosenbauer - Day 2 - 1705) Mike was pleased to see that the new Bolian Engineer was punctual. It was one of those days where he was already in a fairly good mood, and for some reason this small event made him smile even more. ~It must be because she's a Bolian~ he thought, knowing that he had always gotten along with Bolians. Mosh, the only Bolian on his squad had proven to be a good friend and an excellent officer, and he often claimed that he was simply typical of his species. The new arrival took a few moments to scan the room and then hurried over to him. Besides the Transporter technician there weren't too many others available, and of the other two, they were wearing Sciences blue. "Excuse me sir." She said, "Ensign Rixx, reporting as requested." she said with a smile. "Nice to finally meet you mister Rixx. It took longer than I would have liked since your arrival on board." he said. "I'm certain that you're curious about what I meant by a Tactical briefing?" he questioned. "Well the situation itself hasn't been revealed to me yet, but I believe in being prepared. So in their vein I wanted to touch base with you and basically make certain that you and the security teams were all on the same sheet of music so to speak." "The most common cause of deaths or serious injuries on any away team are a lack of situational awareness. New officers, meaning those that have never been on an away mission are unfortunately the ones that usually make silly mistakes because they get excited about the fact that they are somewhere new and miss vital details." "So I thought I'd give you a little refresher to help remind you about the things that you're going to need to keep in mind." "First always check you phaser setting before beaming down. This would also include checking your power cells to make sure that they are fully charged. Always begin any away mission with your tricorder set on silent, especially if there is any chance that the situation could be potentially dangerous." "Always check your field of fire before using your phaser and never pull it unless you intend to use it. regardless of the power setting treat your weapon as if it can kill, because it can." "Never take off your commbadge while on a mission and immediately report anything unusual. And don't touch anything that you can't identify. Got it?" "Good, now I understand that you are going to be handling some engineering aspects while you're planet side. I'm going to assign a couple of security people to escort you and Lieutenant Jackson. They'll be keeping their eyes open while you work. Don't break line of sight without letting them know. I assure you it's for your own safety as well as theirs." Mike smiled again. "Now that business is all finished...How are you enjoying the Rosenante?" ========================= Day 2 , 1706 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's Ready Room - Captain Saleke and Dr. Holis Gralen - Day 2 , 1706) After Commander McLaren and Lt. Williams had left the Ready Room Saleke turned his attention back to Holis. "Yes doctor." Holis tried to give a relaxed smile which came out as more of a grimace. He moved to the desk and picked up the box. "I almost left this in my office before coming to the bridge but I knew you'd want it so I brought it up with me." Pressing the sealed stud which caused the lock to click open he drew back the lid. From its interior he pulled out an irregular, fist sized crystal with numerous facets. The crystal was of a deep, azure blue. It seemed to throw off blue-white sparks from deep within as it reflected the ambient light. The captain's head cocked slightly as if in puzzlement. "Doctor I fail to see the importance of unveiling the Anelurian crystal at this moment under the circumstances and with our time constraints. This particular specimen has been in my possession for a number of years." Holis nodded and held up his hands in a plea for patience. "I know Saleke but I found out something very important about this sample while you were away from Geneva, I tried to get hold of you but you were out of touch." Saleke leaned back and interlaced his fingers with his hands upon the desk as he said. "Continue doctor." Holis nodded. "In your reports the crystal appeared to have elements much like that of dilithium but was less efficient at distributing and regulating electro-plasma energy." "Eighty three point seven percent efficiency with a twelve point three percent energy loss yes doctor." "And that loss was not in the form of heat or light nor did it give off an aberrant radioactive signature." Saleke nodded. "What happened when you originally cut it off from the formation with your phaser? You never told me." Saleke crossed his legs as he leaned back and crossed his arms over his chest, in spite of himself now engrossed in the Betazoids obvious excitement. "It took a full power discharge of exactly sixteen seconds to cut it from the formation." He cocked his head in interest. "And it was hot for how long?" "It cooled within seconds. What are you implying doctor?" Holis turned with the crystal as he took a step then turned back around. "What was your initial hypothesis concerning the reason for the difficulty in cutting it from the formation and its quick cooling period?" The captain gave a sideward glance at commander Sloane as the scientist continued to prod then looked back toward him. "That part of the energy from the phaser discharge was being dispersed throughout the formation which caused the difficulty in freeing it which also explained the speed of the cooling of the shard. Time constrainsts kept me from prying further. Doctor I fail to see the importance of this conversation." Holis smiled then. "Just this Saleke, my speciality is subspace of course as you know and I discovered that the inefficiency in the crystal's energy dispersal is that it shunts some of the energy it takes in into subspace. The crystal isn't akin to dilithium at all, it's an element that makes a natural bridge for energy into subspace. This crystal could revolutionize cloaking technology, making it possible to cut power needed for the cloak possibly to the point where we could continue to hold it while enabling weapons fire or at least cutting the fuel needs of a cloaked vessel by up to twenty two percent if we can tune it correctly since the amount of energy it shunts depends upon the type of energy form. I haven't had an opportunity to map much of it so far." The vulcan looked at the crystal in the scientist's hands with a quirked eyebrow. "Indeed. Thank you for this information doctor." Holis reached into the box again and pulled out a silvery metal base, pressing a stud he placed it in the center of the captain's desk and then held the crystal three inches above it smaller side down. It hung suspended in the air like a blue heart. "Anti-gravity fields are relatively unaffected, since this crystalline form has so far been found in only one solar system you have a very rare and very valuable item, I thought this would be a good display piece. Congratulations on your new command captain. I'd like to get more pieces for study when possible." Saleke nodded. "Very well doctor, thank you. Now I'm sure Commander McLaren is awaiting your arrival." A dismissal was a dismissal. Holis backed away and nodded is respect to Erin as he turned for the door. "Commander." ==================== Day 2 - 1707 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room One - ACEO - Ensign (jg) Mitena Rixx - Day 2 - 1707) Mitena was pleased when the Ensign replied. It meant that she'd picked the correct person to address. "Nice to finally meet you, Mister Rixx. It took longer than I would have liked since your arrival on board." he said. "I'm certain that you're curious about what I meant by a Tactical briefing?" "Well, yes... though I'm sure there is a perfectly good reason for it." "Well the situation itself hasn't been revealed to me yet, but I believe in being prepared. So in their vein I wanted to touch base with you and basically make certain that you and the security teams were all on the same sheet of music so to speak." "Oh, ok" she said, with a slight nod to indicate that she understood the direction he was going with the conversation. She listened as he continued and highlighted basic security principles and proper procedures. It wasn't anything new to her. She'd taken the basic self defense and security classes just as anyone else would have. In some ways she was a little irritated that he felt a need to give the mini lecture but the annoyance was quickly replaced as she considered what she would do if looking at the situation from the security officers prospective. Chances were good that he'd never seen her record or knew what she had and hadn't participated in since leaving academy. With that in mind the security officer was well within his bounds. "Never take off your commbadge while on a mission and immediately report anything unusual. And don't touch anything that you can't identify. Got it?" "Absolutely. You bring up many good points and I will endeavor to keep them all in mind. Thank you for the brief procedural refresher." Mitena replied genuinely. "Good, now I understand that you are going to be handling some engineering aspects while you're planet side. I'm going to assign a couple of security people to escort you and Lieutenant Jackson. They'll be keeping their eyes open while you work. Don't break line of sight without letting them know. I assure you it's for your own safety as well as theirs." With another nod in agreement she replied, "Of course." "Now that business is all finished...How are you enjoying the Rosenante?" "Well, with all the repairs it has definitely been an active posting thus far. I can honestly say I've never been on a ship quite like it before." She started to continue but noticed that the FO had entered the transporter room. She smiled a slight smile at the Ensign and directed her attention to the FO as she began speaking. Mitena noted that the team she was on would be beaming down last. Once the briefing was concluded she turned back to Ensign Rosenbauer. "If you'll excuse me, I think I should take some time to double check my gear and make sure that all my power cells are completely charged." She picked up her engineering kit and moved so that she wouldn't be in the way of other groups that would be arriving in the transporter room. ========================= Day 2 , 1710 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's Ready Room - FO- Cmdr. - Erin Sloane Day 2 , 1710) Erin sat mulling things over in her head as the CSO spoke to the captain at length about the unique crystal that he had brought back with him to the Furious. Apparently the captain was a bit of a geologist. She was only really listening with one ear during the exchange, her mind still trying to piece together the mystery that was before them. The problem was that every time she thought she could come up with a potential reason for such an action, she'd disprove it as stupid, risky or not worthwhile. And the more that she thought about it, the more her mind returned to the captains words. ~anyone found to be attempting to fabricate such a weapon are to be stopped no matter the cost. No matter who we find to be responsible we shall uphold that directive.~ There was always something about definitive statements like 'no matter the cost' and 'at all costs'. they reminded her of the single-minded obedience that was partially responsible for the Civil War which had nearly destroyed the UFP. She admitted that there were times when the choices were very limited and sometimes very unpalatable, yet she also felt that there was something dangerous about making plans for something based on conjecture. She managed to refocus her attentions back on the present as Holis placed the crystal in an antigravity display piece. "Very well doctor, thank you. Now I'm sure Commander McLaren is awaiting your arrival." Saleke finally replied. A dismissal was a dismissal. Holis backed away and nodded his respect to Erin as he turned for the door. "Commander." "Doctor" she replied. Once Saleke and Erin were entirely alone, she looked him in the eyes. "I don't like it one bit." she finally said. "I mean nothing personal Captain, but I think it's a bunch of targ droppings that command has ordered you not to discuss this possible weapon. I mean really, doesn't that complicate things a bit? Makes it very convenient for a starship Captain to walk off the reservation doesn't it? "Tell me, what if Captain Salid came across some sort of indication that someone was building such a weapon? Could he have chosen the 'at all costs' option and decided to destroy that facility? And if he's successful, how will we know that was why he did so? Or better yet, how will we know that he didn't go rogue and is just saying that's the reason?" She shook her head. "That's a Federation mining facility. If they are producing Boronite pure enough to be used in such a weapon, has is occurred to you that it they may not be doing so in a vacuum? What if someone in a high position of authority has been using this facility to produce your refined Boronite? What if Captain Salid is involved in some sort of conspiracy or worse yet, what if he thinks we may be? How do you defuse such a situation without a lot of needless death." Another shake of her head. "Absolutes are illogical, captain. There are always exceptions to everything. There are situations were logical explanation fails and you have to resort to illogical or improbable acts to resolve the situation. You're the Captain, and so I'll follow your orders. But the moment that I see that you've overstepped your authority or that you are taking any actions that are not reasonable, I will be putting my concerns on the record. For you to think I would not do my duty in this regard is illogical, and I know that you would expect me to do the right thing. And I for one believe, Captain. There are times when you have to break the rules for the greater good, keep that in mind." ========================= Day 2, 1712 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Furious - Captain's Ready Room - CO, Captain Saleke -Day 2 , 1712) After Holis' exit Commander Sloane wasted no time in catching the captain's gaze and locking on it, this was after all the reason she had been asked to remain behind. As the captain of the ship his was the final authority but as second in command she had the right and resonsibility to voice any questions and concerns about planned actions or policy she might have in private. "I don't like it one bit." she finally said. Saleke leaned back in the chair once more and cocked his head slightly as he considered her meaning. "Your reticince is understood Commander, operating on orders given in a vacuum of information is illogical." "I mean nothing personal Captain, but I think it's a bunch of targ droppings that command has ordered you not to discuss this possible weapon. I mean really, doesn't that complicate things a bit? Makes it very convenient for a starship Captain to walk off the reservation doesn't it? That colloquialism was something he was unfamiliar with however the inference was a good key in which to interpret it "Owing not only to the power but also to the side-effects of the weapon it was the decision of the highest ranking authorities in the fleet to refuse dissemination of the technical details in order to restrict its use. As for walking off the reservation ..." He paused to consider for an instant. " ... A captains actions are subject to review by command and open to questioning by the first officer. The checks and balances built into the command line are there to guard against such an occurance." "Tell me," She said in a concerned tone. "What if Captain Salid came across some sort of indication that someone was building such a weapon? Could he have chosen the 'at all costs' option and decided to destroy that facility? And if he's successful, how will we know that was why he did so? Or better yet, how will we know that he didn't go rogue and is just saying that's the reason?" The question was obviously a rhetorical one as she continued without pause after shaking her head. "That's a Federation mining facility. If they are producing Boronite pure enough to be used in such a weapon, has is occurred to you that it they may not be doing so in a vacuum? What if someone in a high position of authority has been using this facility to produce your refined Boronite? What if Captain Salid is involved in some sort of conspiracy or worse yet, what if he thinks we may be? How do you defuse such a situation without a lot of needless death." Another shake of the head. "Absolutes are illogical, captain. There are always exceptions to everything. There are situations where logical explanation fails and you have to resort to illogical or improbable acts to resolve the situation. You're the Captain, and so I'll follow your orders. But the moment that I see that you've overstepped your authority or that you are taking any actions that are not reasonable, I will be putting my concerns on the record. For you to think I would not do my duty in this regard is illogical, and I know that you would expect me to do the right thing. And I for one believe, Captain. There are times when you have to break the rules for the greater good, keep that in mind." The vulcan laced his fingers once again as her expostulations began to run out of steam, after she had finished her point he spoke. "Commander allow me to make something perfectly clear, I do not demand nor do I expect you to follow me blindly. As you have very pointedly referenced that was the very reason why the bulk of the fleet continued to follow a self-serving and willful autocrat who used excessive force to quell a peaceful demand for justice and equality. The questioning of the man and his directives was the very reason I joined with the 52nd fleet and continued that service into open rebellion. Should you find my logic faulty and/or my behavior questionable it is your sworn duty to question my motivations and if necessary take steps to rectify the situation even if that means removing me from command whether on medical grounds with the agreement of the CMO or by having me placed under arrest with the support of the senior staff and command officers of this ship." Lowering his hands he leaned forward, his eyes boring into hers. "At this time we still have no incontravertible evidence on the identity of those who attacked the mining facility, I find the phrase 'a federation starship calling herself the Rosenante' to be insufficient grounds for a conclusive identification." he drew in a slow breath. "And it is questionable whether the attacking ship will be there when we arrive." Standing up from the chair he moved to the window and looked out at the passing stars, the doppler shift changing the colors of those approaching from blue/white to red/white as they slid past. "Since a cry for aid was sent the ship responsible will logically be expecting the arrival of support craft at the earliest possible opportunity." "Even if we find that the Rosenante is responsible..." He turned back towards her. "It's captain or current commanding officer will be given every chance to explain their actions before a fleet tribunal." He cupped his hands behind his back then in his customary stance. "The captain of a Federation starship is not judge, jury and executioner commander but a sworn keeper of the peace and I will resolve this situation peacefully if possible. The preparations we are undergoing at this time is for the worst case scenario and not my preferred mode of operation but I will take every precaution I find to be necessary to insure the survival and success of this ship and crew." "As for the device in question." He moved back to the desk and sat down then activated the touch display and tapped in a series of commands, there was an electronic whir as he slid an isolinear chip taken from a drawer into a welcoming slot. After a series of tones followed by a click it popped back out. Taking it then he placed it on the desk within her reach. "Should I become incapacitated or worse during the course of this mission it will be your responsibility to see the directive is satisfied. This chip contains my command codes and should I be logged as dead or incapacitated your voice-print will be sufficient to use them, it will give you access to the files on the Omega device." He nodded. "Do you have any other questions or concerns you wish to voice at this time?" ========================= Day2, 1712, 1747 Mission: Into the Darkness, Go I Day: 2 Stardate: 2408.08.02 (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room 1 - ACMO- Ensign (jg) Sam Lopez- Day 2 - 1712) "We are beaming down to recover any casualties and to render any aid and assistance that we can hence the preponderance of medical personal on our team. Lt Jackson has been tasked with his own mission and he will oversee this himself." We will beam down in this order.. Firstly all the security teams who will secure the facility and advise the rest of us that it is safe. Secondly Lt Nayati and I will beam down with the medical team. Ensign Lopez. You are the senior Medical Officer present.. Please organize your teams so that they understand their roles before they beam down." "Finally Mr Jackson and his team will beam down" "Are there any questions?" Sam waited as people as there questions and then turned to the medical personnel present" I want us to split into two teams one commanded by myself and other other by ensign Ichijo.My team will be me and E'Mpak and the other team will be ensign Ichijo and mr.Fuller.My team will take the east side of the complex and your team will take the west side.Are there any questions?" (Boronite Mining Facility - Main Corridor - ACMO- Ensign (jg) Sam Lopez- Day 2 - 1747) Moving everyone away from the transport site she turned to Lopez. "Deploy your teams Mr Lopez. Lt Nayati and I will make our way to the Control Room." "yes,sir."Sam turned to the teams"you all have your orders, but first check for any survivors in this area." Sam turned and headed to the first body he saw as did his team. Sam checked for a pulse~there none, he`s dead~ =========================