USS Rosenante Compile Through the Looking Glass 14 ==================== Through the Looking Glass Day 2 Stardate: 2414.06.12 ==================== (Alien Station - Docking Bay - Lt. Tom Jackson - 2O/COPS - Day 2 - 0141) (Alien Station, Hanger Bay, PO David Allen, Day 2, 0142) (Alien Station, Hanger Bay, Ensign jg Alicia Michaels, Day 2, 0143) (Alien Station, Hanger Bay, Ensign jg Sparks, Day 2, 0144) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 2, 0145) (Alien Station, Hangar Bay, Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO, Day 2, 0146) (Alien Station - ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos - Day 2 - 0147) (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0148) (Alien Station – Hangar Bay – Lt Tom Jackson – 2O/COPS – 0149) (Hangar Bay Alien Stations – Lt Tom Jackson 2O/cops Day 2 - 0150) (Hangar Bay Alien Stations – Ensign Alicia Michaels Day 2 - 0151) (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lt. Cmdr. Sanok, Day 2, 0152) (Alien Station -Ensign Heath Gomez - Day 2 - 0153) (Alien Station, CEO LCDR Matrix, Day 2, 0155) (Alien Station, Shuttle Bay, Lt Tom Jackson, 2O/COPS, Day 2, 0200) (Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 2, 0201) (Hanger Bay, Ensign jg Michaels, Day 2, 0202) (Alien Station, Hangar Bay, Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen, ACMO, Day 2, 0203) (Rosenante, Ensign jg Alicia Michaels, Day 2, 0205) (Alien Station, Hangar Bay, 2O/COps Lt. Tom Jackson, Day 2, 0206) (First Alien Shuttlecraft, Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO Day 2, 0209) (Rosenante, ACSO Ensign jg C'nell, Day 2, 0211) (Alien Station - ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos - Day 2 - 0213) (Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 2, 0215) (Roseante Turbolift-ASO Engsin Thomas C'Nell-2, 0216) (Rosenante, Main Engineering, CEO, LCDR Steven Matrix, Day 2, 0217) (Rosenante, Sickbay, Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen, Day 2, 0218) (Rosenante – Bridge – Lt Tom Jackson – 2O/COPS – Day 2 – 0219) (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0220) (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lt. Cmdr. Sanok, Day 2, 0221) (Rosenante, Main Engineering, LCDR Steven Matrix, Day 2, 0222) (Rosenante, Bridge, Ensign Alicia Michaels, Day 2, 0223) (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0225) (Rosenate, Sickbay, ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos, Day 2, 0227) (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0229) (Rosenante, Main Engineering, LCDR Steven Matrix, CEO, Day 2, 0230) ==================== (Alien Station - Docking Bay - Lt. Tom Jackson - 2O/COPS - Day 2 - 0141) As Tom spoke with Captain Soma, a large group of people peered into the shuttle bay. "Excuse me Skipper, we have some of our friends arriving" Tom added. NRPG: Tom isn't sure they aren't being monitored by their'hosts' RPG: Allen made his way to the front of The two crews and reported, "Sir, the Tesla's crew weren't in the control room. On a hunch I checked where we entered originally " Allen explained. Tom glanced at the crowd and added "Well Done Mr Allen" Jackson kept looking for The First Officer. Tom turned back to Allen and asked " Where's Commander Sanok?". (Reply: Allen) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Alien Station, Hanger Bay, PO David Allen, Day 2, 0142) Allen said, "Sir, the Tesla's crew weren't in the control room. On a hunch, I checked where we entered originally." "Well done, Mr. Allen," said Jackson. "Where's Commander Sanok?" "He went to the control room," said Allen. "He said there was something very important he had to do." Allen paused. He told me to tell you to get the Tesla crew on the Hikani ship, get off the station, and get back to the Rosenante. He told me to make sure you did this, and to tell you to not worry about the rest of the team." Allen could see that Jackson wasn't happy about this. "I'm sorry, sir, but the commander said it was vital that you leave the station as soon as possible." It was out of his hands now. Allen had done what Commander Sanok had ordered. He hoped Jackson would listen, as Allen didn't want to answer to Sanok for not properly conveying the orders. (reply Jackson, Andersen) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Alien Station, Hanger Bay, Ensign jg Alicia Michaels, Day 2, 0143) Alicia Michaels and the other 84 crewmembers from the Tesla are with Petty Officer Allen and they are heading to the hanger bay. Alicia saw two other men there and remained silent. Alicia and the others are feeling like herd of sheep heading for the slaughter. She hated when the Hikani came and attacked them, transported off their ship through a portal, held captive against their will and telepathically interrogated. Alicia saw that the Hikani used an inept machine to get into the minds of the Tesla crewmembers. Alicia didn’t give up any information to them. Alicia feels stressed, tired and probably injured when they were attacked. She wished that she would get somewhere safe and that she can start her new career as a Starfleet officer. Ensign jg Alicia Michaels ----- (Alien Station, Hanger Bay, Ensign jg Sparks, Day 2, 0144) Spark hobbled into the hanger just behind the rest of his crew from the Tesla. His hand was wrapped around his ribs on his right side. He had taken a heavy blow there in the combat earlier, but he wasn't planning on letting that slow him down. His mind was focused on getting what was left of his crew off of the station. He slowly trudged through the crowd of Tesla crew members and to the front of the pack where he saw a few Starfleet officers he did not recognize. He approached one of them wincing in pain before straightening himself up to talk to him "Excuse me lieutenant, What's the situation?" (Reply Jackson) "Is there anyway i can help?" Spark asked, He knew he would likely struggle with the task given his psychical condition and his mental fatigue after being vigorously strained by telepathic interrogation. (Reply Jackson) (Posted by Adam W.) ----- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 2, 0145) Ben was relieved when Tom's voice broke through the static, the message wasn't clear but he was able to determine that things were progressing well and everyone was in decent shape despite what they've been through. "We're fairing a little worse here." Ben explained. "The station has opened fire on us again and we've taken some damage." Ben looked around his bridge to survey the damage from the last volley, several of the rear stations were dark, smoke still rising out of the last one. Others flickered but were functional for now. "We're still trying to get a transporter lock on everyone but it may take some time." Ben continued. "You may need to find an alternate means of escape." He knew that wouldn't be easy, they didn't have enough EVA suits for everyone and only a couple shuttles to transfer them off the station. He didn't think they stations commander would think twice about firing on a shuttle and given the damage a few torpedoes did to the Rose a shuttle wouldn't stand a chance. "Keep me posted on your progress, as soon as we can get a lock I'll let you know." Ben finished. (reply Jackson, any) A message beeped on the tactical console, Ben glanced down a read the report. There were a lot of minor injuries and a couple more serious such as broken bones and several concussions. Thankfully the SO who was at the tactical station was the only death he was aware of. The sooner he got his people back the better. (reply any) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (Alien Station - Hangar Bay - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 2 - 0146) Finally people started pouring in the Hangar Bay, Andersen let out a sigh in relief knowing that they will soon leave this station, if everything goes to plan. Jackson and Allen were talking about Commander Sanok. Ailyn raised her eyebrow almost like a vulcan hearing that a portion of the team went deeper to engineering part of the station, and that the current command was to get the USS Tesla crew off the station - and onto USS Rosenante. Neither Andersen nor Jackson were happy with this command. It almost felt what they did was all in vain in case something goes wrong and the rest of the crew gets trapped again. It defied her logic why would someone get freed only to risk being captured again and then she chuckled noting to herself that is probably one of the reasons why she's not a part of the command staff. She moved her hand over the buckle which removed the buckles from over her body, picking herself up, she went to the aft area, helping the USS Tesla crew get comfortable on the crude-looking benches that were behind in the aft area. Many looked emotionally distraught and physically weak and were barely able to follow her while she was buckling the first of them. She was sure it's going to be a bumpy ride, and safety was a high priority while running away from the station that has weapons to destroy you in seconds. A little bit of comfort - how much was possible on the vessel anyway, and a bit of smile, she felt, couldn't hurt anyone at this point. After she was done she jumped back to the bridge room, and took her seat back at the right side of Jackson. Jackson was speaking with the CO. The news weren't good. The Rose was under attack and going out at this time with the shuttles would be a suicide. The crew had to find another way. Again, it seemed Jackson wasn't happy how the situation was going. "So, what happens now, sir?" Ailyn asked in an innocent manner. She was honestly lost in the possibilities and she had no idea what happens next. Her plan she hoped for just turned bad and the tiredness and pain at this point were taking her body piece by piece. She felt she just wanted to fall asleep in that chair and sleep for few days. (Reply: Jackson) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Alien Station - ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos - Day 2 - 0147) It felt like a person sitting on her chest the pressure making it hard for her to breath, as she drifted in and out of conciousness. Even the simple act of breathing was becoming more difficult she hoped the Rosenante got her message, she hoped they could get a lock and beam them out and into safety. Her vision blured has another wave of pain passed over her, causing her to cough blood filling her mouth she let it pass and fall to ground next to her. She knew she was in bad shape and it would be hard to move foward with her injures as she was. (reply any) (posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0148) After thirteen minutes, Tho'var had finally found and destroyed the third beam blocker. Based on the distance between each beam blocker, he estimated that beam blocker coverage would be almost gone over the portal control room. With the station shield down as well (in fact, he didn't even recalled it had ever been up), that should allow the Rosenante to beam its crew away. He opened a communication with the Rosenante. This time, the communication signal was considerably better. "Sir, I have succeeded in destroying three beam blocker. I believe the portal control room is not covered anymore and you can now have a lock. However, I need to complete my work on the console if we want to remain in control of it and successfully travel back to our space. However, I am not sure how long our team can repeal the enemy. Can you send more men?" (Reply Soma) (NRPG: I assume here it is impossible because the Rosenante is in the middle of a fight, there is a risk they won't be able to beam back, and the enemy as requested to beam away, not beam more people. If you response were to be positive, I would simply repost) "Understood sir. We will do our best then. I will recontact you when we are ready to beam up. If communication are scrambled..." (Reply Soma) "Very well sir. Tho'var out." As soon as the conversation ended, Tho'var realized he couldn't hear any more phaser fire. He also recognized a voice. Using his telepathic ability, he was able to confirm Sanok had arrived, probably with reinforcement. From the hole, he said . "Commander Sanok, I have deactivated three beam blocker. It should be sufficient for the USS Rosenante to have a transporter lock on us." (Reply Sanok) "Sir, I was examining those conduits and I believe I could create an artificial time bomb. From my knowledge, it would take approximately thirty to fourty five minutes for a leak in the eps to heat up the computer console to make it explode. With a few small explosive set on the two main EPS conduits, it could create a chain reaction that would damage all the eps conduits leading to this room, which could lead to a good portion of the space station to explode. It would not be the entire station, but I doubt the enemy would be able to ever repair the control room section. The portal would probably be closed forever." (Reply Sanok) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Alien Station – Hangar Bay – Lt Tom Jackson – 2O/COPS – 0149) Tom was glad he could talk to the skipper. Tom was worried as Soma related that his beloved ship and family were in peril. Soma added “ an alternate means of escape would be needed . Tom swore silently. “Skipper – Doc Anderson and I have figured out the stations craf6t sufficiently – we’ll beat feet ASAP – we are loading personnel as I speak” (Reply: Soma) Tom was very anxious and worried about his wife and kids and wanted to get back to the Rose to defend them and the crew. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Hangar Bay Alien Stations – Lt Tom Jackson 2O/cops Day 2 - 0150) Tom, dispite being annoyed at Sanok’s order, turned to Ailyn and said “Start getting everyone loaded on the crafts – Be ready to blow thr doors wide open ok?” Tom said *Reply: Ailyn) Tom hopped out quickly and looked over the Tesla crew. He raised his voice and asked “Any Engineers or pilot rated personnel present?’ Ensign Michaels was an engineering officer and pilot rated. Tom smiled and said simply “Thanks Ensign. You take the next large craft – he handed her a padd Ailyn Anderson had loaded the Craft data onto – Tom gave her further instructions with “ Follow us – have the shields at maximum strength – we’ll deflect any incoming fire – you are to head strainght to the Rosenante - Questions?” (Reply: Michaels) Tom nodded at her- dismissing her and turned to finishing his pre-flight checklist. Tom turned to the Tesla’s skipper and ssaid “Sir – if you are up to it, I can use your help upfront?” (Reply: Wesson) (Posted by Bill West) ----- (Hangar Bay Alien Stations – Ensign Alicia Michaels Day 2 - 0151) Tom hopped out quickly and looked over the Tesla crew. He raised his voice and asked “Any Engineers or pilot rated personnel present?’ Ensign Michaels was an engineering officer and pilot rated. Tom smiled and said simply “Thanks Ensign. You take the next large craft – he handed her a padd Ailyn Anderson had loaded the Craft data onto – Tom gave her further instructions with “ Follow us – have the shields at maximum strength – we’ll deflect any incoming fire – you are to head strainght to the Rosenante - Questions?” "Yes Sir." Alicia said as she took the PADD from Lt. Jackson and started her pre flight checklist Tom nodded at her- dismissing her and turned to finishing his pre-flight checklist. (Posted by Charlotte Kolesar) ----- (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lt. Cmdr. Sanok, Day 2, 0152) Sanok arrived at the portal control room, meeting James who was guarding the main entrance. "Report, Mister James." "We were attacked by another Hikani force, but this time, they were different." "Different? How?" said Sanok. "They weren't like what we saw before. They knew how to fight. They knew tactics and how to lay down fire. We barely stopped them, though Ensign Signos was badly wounded." "Are there any other casualties?" "No, sir. Just Ensign Signos. We've also been able to talk with the captain. There's static, but he said they should be able to cut through the interference and beam us off soon." "Remain here." Sanok started across the catwalk and down the steps. He saw Maddox and Matrix working together at a console. He saw Ambassador Turner coming out from beneath a desk, looking like she'd been through hell and back. He then saw Signos, with a Vulcan in science blue he didn't know. He didn't see Kevras. "Sanok to Captain Soma." The captain responded, but there was indeed static on the channel. "I do not have time to explain, but you must implement Starfleet General Order 24. I repeat, General Order 24. A Hikani ship with some of our people will be exiting the station. Also, beam as many of us off the station as you can, but you must do this as soon as possible." Sanok closed the channel before Ben could respond. He had to find Kevras, so there was no time to talk. Billions of lives were at stake. (reply Soma) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Alien Station -Ensign Heath Gomez - Day 2 - 0153) After he had helped with Signos and C'Nell had also come to her aide she offered a tricorder with orders to use it, apparently she had a remote destruct set up for the shuttles. She was in pretty bad shape, she had been hit hard and it was only a matter of time before she began slipping, C'Nell seemed to be quite concerned for her. Heath decided to leave them alone, he had no idea if they were involved but he didn't want to make the situation awkward for anyone. He moved to help the others as they began to make their way out of the room. Sanok had arrived looking for an update and them issued a GO21. Things went from bad to worse very quickly, the order required the destruction of the station at any cost. He saw the FO turn to leave the room, everyone was finishing up so he moved to the FO. "Sir where do you need me?" He inquired. (reply Sanok, any) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (Alien Station, CEO LCDR Matrix, Day 2, 0155) Matrix noticed Sanok rushing into the control room, but remained focused on his task with Maddox. The key to their eventual escape may well rely on his ability to out-wit the alien system. Kevras had likely solved the beam out problem yet there was valuable information to gain from the foriegn computer system if nothing else. As Matrix continued to work he reround what he though he heard Sanok relay to the Rose. He glanced up, all expression left his face and his gut tightened. ~Oh no!~ thought Matrix. "Commander what are your orders?" asked Matrix. (Reply Sanok) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Alien Space Station – Shuttle Bay – Lt Tom Jackson – 2O/COPS – Day 2 – 0200) Tom watched as the Tesla crew entered the Bay. Allen had reported that Sanok had ordered Tom and the Tesla crew to get off the station FAST. This didn’t sit well with Jackson. Tom didn’t want to leave anyone bhind but Sanok was right even though Tom did not want to really admit it. “O.k. orders acknowledge Mr Allen” Jackson replied with resignation. He punched up the schematics Ailyn had figured out and saw what looked like a comms panel. He sent “ Michaels - secure the loading and start your engines” (Reply: Michaels) He turned to the rear of the shuttle and yelled – “Ailyn get those folks in and seated NOW” (Reply: Doc) Jackson turned to the Tesla’s skipper and said “Once Your ensign Michaels secures press the symbol that looks like a sword – I am hoping it’s a weapons system activator” . (Reply: Captain) We’ll have to blast our way out – I expect to the decompression out rush to be violent. Watch the shields – and route all power to the shields save life support and engines” Jackson added. (Reply: Captain) Tom tensed as the seconds ticked by 0 awaiting the signal from Ailyn and Ensign Michaels. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 2, 0201) Ben had heard from several of his crew, Signos sounded like she was badly injured. Sanok's message had been the most troubling. A general order 24 required the destruction of the target at any cost, Ben had known Sanok for a long time. His friend wouldn't have issued the order without a good reason. The Hikani posed an imminent threat to the federation, and as such need to be stopped. People were being loaded into one of their craft at the moment and he would wait until they were aboard to begin a direct assault on the station. The fact that several transport inhibitors had been disabled was good news. He dropped the shields and instructed the transporter rooms to beginning grabbing people, security was standing by in case they got some unwanted company. Several minutes had passed and Ben received word that transport was underway, his people were coming home and the Tesla crew were being pulled out along with them. Glancing at a chronometer he saw that it was now past 0200 hours, he glanced at the screen and saw an alien vessel, assuming it was Tom he opened a channel. "Stay close to the station so they can't lock onto you Tom. Once your onboard head for the bridge, I could use your help coordinating things." (reply Jackson) Minutes later he received another message that transports had been completed, all injured personnel were en route to sickbay and they had everyone except Sanok and Kevras. Shortly after he learned he alien ship had docked and it's crew had come aboard. Now it was time to fight, time to see what the station was made of and how much of a pounding the Rose could really take. Opening the intercom he said. "All hands to battle stations." Raising the shields again he ordered the helm into attack pattern delta, he also ordered the transporter rooms to continue searching from Sanok and Kevras, he prefered having everyone together if this was to be their last battle. (reply ALL) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (Hanger Bay, Ensign jg Michaels, Day 2, 0202) He punched up the schematics Ailyn had figured out and saw what looked like a comms panel. He sent “ Michaels - secure the loading and start your engines” "Yes Sir" Alicia said (Posted by: Charlotte Kolesar) ----- (Alien Station, Hangar Bay, Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen, ACMO, Day 2, 0203) Tom was visibly annoyed. Perhaps it was the orders that came from the FO, perhaps it was this growing negative feeling that something bad is going to happen any second. Despite all this, Andersen saw how he's thinking, and although not in a good mood, he went to give orders - that could perhaps change everything "Start getting everyone loaded on the crafts - Be ready to blow thr doors wide open ok?" said Tom Jackson looking at Ailyn. "Aye, sir." she said immediately jumping out of her seat, then, as if she forgot something, turned back to the seat again and picked the PADD up. "Sir, this is the PADD containing everything we figured about this craft in this limited time. It's not much, but I'm certain I'll help." she said, handing the PADD to Jackson and nodding. A second later, and Ailyn was already getting on board the second craft, nodding to Ensign Michaels as she went in at almost the same time. Next batch of twenty-five from the Tesla took their seats and Ailyn found herself redoing the process of showing them how to buckle properly and how to place their heads onto the panel above the seat - that would firmly secure the neck and the head of the person siting. This was imperative - because it could very well be a bumpy ride, and the last thing she wanted was neck or head injuries. When she hopped out, she caught a young Ensign from the Tesla looking rather pale, and obviously lost not knowing where to go. "Ensign..." she started with a direct voice, trying to get through the stress, grabbing the man by the shoulders, she took her light and checked his pupils. The man was alright, just a little pale out of stress. "Ensign, I see your uniform colors, do you happen to have any knowledge of flying a craft like that?" Ailyn asked the visibly shaken man "Y...Yes, I was.. uh am pilot. But I was only piloting four times in the night shift so far." he tried pushing the responsibility out of his way. It was understandable, the situation wasn't looking bright and even Andersen herself would never take such responsibility easily. But she also knew that, no matter who he was, or how much experience he had, that the will to survive, to believe in others and, if she could help, that he embraces his destiny and pilot the third craft. She was still holding his shoulders, as if she was still inspecting his eyes, smiling kindly, she told him "Ensign, if someone can take the rest of these man back home, to safety... it is you. Several of the higher ranking officers are injured or in a very bad shape, they are simply not fit to pilot this craft. You, on the other hand, you can make the difference." she removed one of the hands from his shoulders and patted the other one. "Trust me, you will be fine. If you ever piloted a shuttle..." she started "Only in the holodeck." the man said visibly worried. "It is... quite similar, except a little bit more sensitive. Go easy on the controls, fly after us and everything will be alright. You can do this." she told him and the man seemed to gain a little bit of the self confidence he was needing. Pushing her commbadge, she asked for instructions from Tom Jackson. "Andersen to Jackson, sir, I think I have found a third pilot. With your permission, I would like to tell him the basics." she explained. Andersen was sure Jackson understood that at this point in time, they couldn't stop and choose between different officers, they had very little capable hands as pilots and were running short on time every second that was lost without doing something. (Reply: Jackson, iyw) "Aye, sir." she explained and closed down the channel. She got into the last craft, helped several of the remaining officers from the Tesla get buckled and ready for the flight, and then, in a quick fashion, told him about the flight controls. She turned the reactor and the engines in his craft, and turned all the other power directly to shields, which now were being operated at 125% efficiency. "You won't be shooting, the other two crafts will be doing that, just hang in there and get these people to safety." she said and smiled positively. Upon doing this, she hopped out and into the first craft back again to check the aft section once again before being sure everyone was ready. Unfortunately, this was exactly the worst time to happen something like this. One of the petty officer had a onset of a breakdown, unbuckling himself and curling on the floor, he grabbed his legs with his hands, and started murmuring something only he could understand. This wasn't good news. Several of the others also unbuckled themselves and got down to help the man. Andersen immediately got her bag from her shoulder, and checked him with a tricorder. No doubt, the aliens probed his mind and then stuffed him with powerful drugs they probably didn't know what kind of side-effect might have. Nervous breakdowns was a nasty thing to happen at any situation, the current stress wasn't helping at all. She brought the hypo out and loaded with 200 ccs of Neurozine. She had nothing to treat his breakdown at the moment, and leaving the man like this was out of question, so she sedated him. Three seconds after the administration, the man was in a deep sleep. She grabbed the man by the legs, moving her head towards the man so that the others would understand and help her get him back onto his seat, so she can buckle him back again. "Ailyn get those folks in and seated NOW" Jackson yelled, it was obvious they ran out of time. She quickly helped the last trio get back onto their seats, and last one to get finally back inside and take her seat. "We're ready here, sir." she yelled to the front of the craft, proceeding in a swift manner to the frontal seats, grabbing the first one she could get her hands on that weren't taken already. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Rosenante, Ensign jg Alicia Michaels, Day 2, 0205) Alicia exited the shuttle with the other crewmembers from the Tesla and the Rosenante and went to the Bridge. "Ensign Alicia Michaels from the Tesla reporting for duty" Alicia said ( Reply Soma) (posted by Charlotte Kolesar) ----- (Alien Station, Hangar Bay, 2O/COps Lt. Tom Jackson, Day 2, 0206) Tom had at last gotten the go. He brought his craft!s engines on line . Turning to his co-pilot Jackson ordered shields up" (Repjy: Wesson) Tom glanced at the other crafts and saw they were ready. Jackson punched the weapons button. -t the sane time he headed for the gaping hole in front of him. The path was turbulent and debris filled. Sparks flew as the shields , while holding, were stressed to their limits. The other crafts were right in his tail. They soon were free of the station. He keyed the comm channel and sent " head directly to the shuttle bay. Stay close to the beam as long ad possible. Dr Anderson head the injured to Sick Bay. Ensign Michaels join me on the bridge - acknowledge". (Reply: Anderson, Michaels) Tom swung his craft between the station and his beloved Rosé. He targeted the area they just left to help deflect fire from the ships heading home, This was the time to head home. Tom swung the nimble craft on its axis and was about to hit the accelerate function when they were hit in the rear. The craft shook. Tom and the Tesla skipper reinforced the aft shields. They ere targeted and Jackson pushed his craft in to the overload zone . The craft shook violently. ~ Hold together baby not much longer ~he prayed. The supreme power that controlled things was zenith him as they head for the shuttle bay. Tom realized his control if the craft was was beginning to be avoiding battle . Quickly keying a channel to the Rose he sent "we' re coming in hot. Raise the crash barriers evacuate the bays NOW!!" (Reply: Rose) He turned to the passengers and said "brace for impact". The Rose's bay opening sure looked small more so than normal.. He crossed his fingers and ordered the Tesla captain to "reverse engines Now". The shuttle screamed in agony and slow ever so slowly . The craft ripped through the first barrier and finally stopped. To relieve the tension he said "thanks for flying Jackson airlines - please exit rapidly". Jackson closed the link and breath deeply . His luck held again. (Reply: Any present) (Ousted by: Bill W.) ----- (First Alien Shuttlecraft, Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO Day 2, 0209) Jackson buckled up, got the craft ready for a takeoff - ordering the cop-pilot to engage the shields. The quintet of the officers on the bridge of the craft were all buckled and ready for the race to the USS Rosenante. The two other crafts were hovering with their engines powered on, all waiting for Jackson's first salvo to free their way out of the station. An eerie silence proceeded as Jackson seemed to wait for that perfect moment to set the things in motion. And in the split of the second, Tom's fingers punched the button, the other hand propelled the craft sharp forward, immense red bolts flew from the underside of the craft right into the doors. It took only a single blow. As the craft accelerated rapidly, debris, both small and large, kept hitting the shields over and over again, but these were holding valiantly. The pressure sucked out the crafts from the station's hangar bay like they were bees on the wind, a terrible feeling of motion sickness caught Andersen completely as the craft bounced around and as it rode the turbulent force, but it was all over in several seconds. As they were out, Ailyn saw the beautiful silhuette of the Rosenante, almost gasping, she never before thought the ship was so beautiful. But with the rim of her eye, she caught several other ships - heading down their home as well. Their elongated hulls reminding of colossal wedges - with a pair of large structures that resembled wings protruding from the middle of the ship's hull. These had some kind of doors on them, and they were opening. Darkly lit space around the station got filled with distinct red light, as the ships proceeded to open fire - their bolts and beams put ablaze considerable area - they were targeting the Rose but they also centered their salvos to the small crafts as well, forcing Jackson for some quick maneuvers to counter-attack the weapons being discharged in their direction. Among the alien ships, a smaller boxy design came in front. It seemed to only have a single weapon, but it bravely fired towards the Rose as it was getting closer. If she had to guess, the ship was some kind of large freighter or a heavy troop transport. As it got closer then the other ships - to Andersen's surprise, it managed to score quite a few direct hits to Rosenante. The only thing that flew through Ailyn's mind was that this first ship was an easy exposed target - as it left the heavier better-armored ships behind itself. Perhaps the captain of the ship was trying to make a point - or even perhaps he was going to ram the Rosenante. Either way, it was a suicide tactic. Whatever the case may be, Andersen was sure that the crew of the Rose will be able to handle the lone vessel at the moment. The trouble was the other ships were getting closer and their accuracy was already at a much better level, hitting Rosenante with quite a portion of their hits. Jackson ordered the other crafts to head directly to shuttle bay, as Rosenante was making a blunt turn - to face the attacker with her weapons - but still leave enough space for shuttles to land. "Dr Anderson head the injured to Sick Bay." Jackson said to Andersen, she quickly nodded putting her hands around her chair, this is going to be an emergency landing. Jackson turned the craft away from the enemy fire so that Rosenante's silhuette forms an shield between, however Andersen saw few hits getting through before the Rose was able to shut the line of fire - she opened her mouths to yell, but the craft was already hit behind by two hits. The lights flickered, the sound of an impact almost burst Andersen's hearing out. The craft was shaking and it was evident Jackson struggled to keep her under the control, the Rose bay seemed at the hand's reach. "we' re coming in hot. Raise the crash barriers evacuate the bays NOW!!" Jackson yelled to the comm-badge. "brace for impact" he yelled behind himself and then ordered his co-pilot to reverse the engines at the exact second. The powerful momentum gained by overburning the engines to the craft was not going to give up so easily, however, and the craft hit an energy barrier - as Ailyn closed her eyes, the world seemed to spin as she felt sick from the forced deceleration. And then with everything seemed to stop, the known humming of the engines of the craft was evident and Andersen knew it was peacefully hovering inside the shuttle bay on Rosenante. They definitely made it. Several seconds, a large hit happened to the left of them, followed by an even stronger hit, that sent sparks all around as the third craft hit the deck with it's nose. The deck was visibly damaged but luckily the craft seemed only scratched. "thanks for flying Jackson airlines - please exit rapidly" Jackson said nonchalantly as he proceeded to unbuckle himself. The doors of the shuttle bay closed. Andersen knew her job, she was the first to unbuckle, and get to the aft section. One of the passengers had a part of the craft from the aft wall hit his leg, it was broken, so she helped him get up and carried him out on shoulders, the others seemed to be able to walk by themselves. When she was out of the craft, she rested the man on one hand, pushing her commbadge with another "Andersen to everyone in sick-bay, I need every capable hands here to help carry the wounded back to sickbay. We have one ready for the emergency procedures." she explained and closed down the channel. "Great landing sir, could've done it any better." she said, trying to tease Jackson and to relieve some stress before she proceeded to carry the injured man out of shuttle bay. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Rosenante, ACSO Ensign jg C'nell, Day 2, 0211) C'Nell felt the energy beams envelope him and Signos. He looked over at the quiet Gomez, he too was being beamed away. He looked up; they were in sickbay apparently a number of crew members had been injuried and the captain had beamed them clear into the sickbay; he lifted Signos onto the bed. Looking for any sign of life from her. (Reply Signos iyw) "I am fine, deal with her!" He shouted at one of the junior medics who came to check him over. C'Nell knew Signos would not thank sentimentality on the battlefield if she really was section 31, he had to find his place; the ship was in a wide red alert; battlestations where active. C'Nell took the rifle from Signos strapping it to himself, as the medics began to treat her they took more and more weapons from her. "How is it possible for one person to be so armed?" he said out loud. He quickly noticed that the sickbay was understaffed, they must have had a great number of injuries on the station. C'Nell looked at Signos's tactical circlet, it had a diagram of the Rose flashing with a section of jeffries flashing the warning "unidentified entity in section" =/\= C'Nell to Bridge, Signos's armband is flashing an alert, unidentified entity have you detected anything? Permission to investigate, C'Nell out =/\= (Reply anyone on bridge) C'Nell secretly hoped it was Hikani, they made him angry, his vulcan calm was lost; this was a battlefield and he would win or die upon it. (Reply None) (Posted by Nathan) ----- (Alien Station - ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos - Day 2 - 0213) Sanok entered the control room and after accessing the situation her contacted the Captain on the Rosenate and issued an general order 24. The order rang though Jessica's mind, it was unlikely that Sanok would ever call for such an order. It was obvious that her knew something about the enemy that made them dangerous that they had to be stopped at all cost. She closed her eyes has she and the people around her was teleported off the station. (Rosenate - Sickbay - ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos - Day 2 - 0213) Her eyes opened in the familiar surroundings off the Rose's sickbay a place she has visited more times than she cared to remember in a near death condition. C'Nell was still by her side as he called in that something had found a way to breach into the Rosenate to the captain, She reached for him. "Get the detonator to Captain Soma... We must stop the station before we need to worry... let security do their job." It was a strained the words coming out though gasping breaths and blood. (Reply C'Nell) Medical personnel come to her side, has more injured personnel entered the sick bay it was clear that Rose was in battle and that the rescued crew of the Telsa was aboard. It was clear that Jessica was one of the more critical injured and the medical bay knew there job well. "Don't worry we got her," One of the medical personnel spoke to C'Nell before they turned to Jessica. "Now you need to relax and stop pushing yourself, we don't like seeing you in here so much." They started pulling what remained of her uniform and armor off to get to the wounds and blunt force trauma underneath.Along with this process they pulled one weapon after another from the small girl. "How is it possible for one person to be so armed?" C'Nell said out loud. "It comes with the job." Jessica spoke weakly. The medical personnel started to have a concerned look on her face. "I'm sorry but I most ask you to leave now." She spoke to C'Nell. before pressing her comm badge "Medical to any senior medical personnel, we have critically injured and need support asap." (reply any medical.) (reply any) (posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 2, 0215) Ben watched as Tom's shuttle came under fire, not long after he got the message they were coming in hot and have the crash nets ready. Ben sent word to the shuttle bay and moments later felt a vibration run through the floor as Tom's craft crashed into the restraints and the deck. Other craft emerged and Ben hoped they would fair better. Once the others vessels had docked he turned his attention back to the task at hand, firing volley's of torpedoes and phaser fire. The ship rocked as the stations weapons struck the shields. C'Nell reported and possible intruder and requested permission to investigate, he hadn't received an intruder alert but he would send a security team to check it out. "Permission denied." Ben said. "I'll send a security detail to check it out, the intruder alert hasn't been triggered and it may be a malfunction." Ben alerted security and then awaited Tom's arrival to help keep things under control. He needed to keep the shields up as long as possible but he could only do so much from the bridge, assuming Matrix was aboard he hit his combadge. "Soma to Matrix." He said. "I need you in engineering, route whatever power you can to shields and keep them us as long as possible." (reply Matrix) The ship rocked again as another torpedo found it's mark, so far he hadn't inflicted any major damage to the station and he wasn't certain how much he could do. As a last resort he'd crash the Rose into the station if all else failed, he hoped he wouldn't have to make that call but he would if he had to. He still had no idea where Sanok and Kevras was so he hit his combadge again. "Soma to Sanok and Kevras." He said hopeful they could hear him at this range. "We're unable to get a lock on your positions, please respond." (reply Sanok, Kevras) Reports of injuries were still coming across his board, he wasn't sure just how bad things were and he hoped Anderson had made it to sickbay and had enough time to survey the scene. "Soma to Anderson." He said opening another channel. "What the situation down there." (reply Anderson) Once again the ship shook from a torpedo impact, Ben ordered the con to alter course to attack pattern alpha. He returned fire with phasers and quantum torpedos, he recorded solid hits from all weapons but again the damage wasn't as severe as he had hoped. Tom's craft had left a shuttle bay so he would keep an eye out for it, a full spread of torpedoes detonating inside the bay may cause secondary explosions and disrupt the stations power. (reply ALL) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (Roseante Turbolift-ASO Engsin Thomas C'Nell-2, 0216) The gasping orders escaped Signos' mouth. C'Nell nodded detirmined. It was the only way to end this; they both knew it. Then they were swamped by the medics "Dont worry we got her" one of them said to him; it reassured him but only in a limited way. "How does one person be so armed" He asked "It comes with the job" she stated "You'll have to teach me the trick of hiding more weapons than your physical body will allow" he replied amused "You'll have to leave now" a medical personalle said before she could reply, that didnt bother C'Nell he had to get the detonator to the captain anyhow Then the reply to his message came through from Soma. =/\= Permission Denied =/\= whatever else the Captain said, C'Nell ignored it, he had no need for discussion now. He was focused, he ran out of the Sickbay pushing through the medical staff. =/\= C'Nell to Bridge, I'm coming up Signos had something you need =/\= (Reply any on bridge) As C'Nell ran forward the sercurity detail passed him; presumably they were dealing with the intruders. C'Nell hoped they'd all come back but he had learned the Hikani where a deadly foe. He didnt believe in luck or fate but if it did exist, these men would need it. (Reply any in sercurity detail iyw) (Posted by Nathan) ----- (Rosenante, Main Engineering, CEO, LCDR Steven Matrix, Day 2, 0217) Matrix had barely made it to engineering, but had already received a status update while on route. He glanced up at the main status boards and didn't like what he saw. "Soma to Matrix." He said. "I need you in engineering, route whatever power you can to shields and keep them us as long as possible." =^= Already here sir. Understood. We'll get to work. Matrix out. =^= (Reply Soma, IYW) "Okay everyone heads up. I need the warp core relays shored up so we can route power as needed. Bring up the auxiliary and backup power systems...augment the shield generators." Ordered Matrix taking a seat the primary engineering console. Matrix worked feverishly, giving orders to his crew and directing efforts where needed. Within a few minutes the shield generators were responding to the additional power feeds. Power flow from the backup systems was on standby. Nearly falling out of his chair the Rose rocked violently as she took another volley of fire. ~Damn it!~ thought Matrix. Matrix tapped his commbadge. =^= Matrix so Soma...shield energy is increasing, but I can't maintain them very long at this rate. =^= (Reply Soma) "Understood...modulation sequencing initiated." replied Matrix (Reply Soma) "Bring the standby power systems online. I'm starting the shield modulation sequence. Hopefully that will buy us some time." yelled Matrix as another volley rocked the Rose. The primary lighting system in engineering blinked momentarily, then snapped into darkness. The emergency red lighting illuminated engineering as the various displays began to glow with information. Red and yellow areas appeared throughout the Rosenante's 3D status map. Life support on decks 18, and 22 through 26. "Omega team to deck 18...lets get life support back online. Move move!!" ordered Matrix. (Reply Soma, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Rosenante - Sickbay - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 2 - 0218) The medbay was in total chaos, it's not only that the crew from the Tesla were injured and required attention - but now the Rose was under attack and there were injured personnel constantly arriving. It was extremely hard working under these conditions - specially because the ship was under constant attack and several systems here weren't working at all, they were knocked offline by the enemy fire. Ailyn was jumping from one bed to another like crazy, and Doctor Rixx was seemingly doing pretty much the same - as was all the medical personnel. The two people from the Tesla were operated - in a quick time, and the nurses were using hand regenerators on them. Being understaffed wasn't helping the situation. =/\= Soma to Anderson. What the situation down there.=/\= She punched her commbadge in a quick motion. "We're overrun by injured, and some of the latest attacks knocked few of our systems offline Sir, some systems we really need back online." she added ending with a dose of horror in her voice to emphasize the need. (Reply: Soma) "Good idea, sir. " she said, pressing her commbadge, then doing it again to open a new channel. "Ensign Andersen to any available Engineering officer on board." =/\= This is Szlacht. =/\= answered an unfamiliar voice. "We are in a tight spot here in medbay and need some systems repaired as soon as possible." =/\= Going. =/\= said an unfamiliar voice and closed down the channel before Ailyn could tell him what systems are affected. She just shrugged, she would explain everything to him once he gets here. "I cannot feel my leg." she heard a yelling from the far side of the room. She immediately grabbed the PADD beside the patients bed to check and then literally caught the first roaming medic by the shoulder, and turned him towards the patient's bed. "Obviously, it's not just second degree burns as it says on PADD if the man cannot feel his leg. Check his brain and his spine, it's obvious he got an underlying injury." she coldly explained, and then moved to the next bed. =/\= Medical to any senior medical personnel, we have critically injured and need support asap." =/\= the voice from commbadge took Andersen by surprise while she was checking out yet another patient. Grabbing the first nurse, she added "20 ccs of the usual and he's going to be fine" and putting a hypo in her hand, she turned around to find where this mystery voice appeared. She found Signos on bed barely keeping her eyes opened, her wounds were moderate and she needed immediate attention. "Axonol, 25 cc's." she ordered the nurse. "But, that's 25% higher then standard dosage, and she's smaller framed..." the nurse started. Ailyn wasn't about to be dragged into unnecessary discussions, specially because the woman's life was in danger. "She's ... let's just say she's more resistant to anesthetics." she explained the nurse that still seemed to have an issue with the dosages. Obviously, the nurse didn't read Signos personnel file. She took the loaded hypo from the nurse's hand and used it on Jessica. "I want you to relax and concentrate on my speech." she explained moving her finger in front of Signos' eyes to see her reflexes. It was obvious to Andersen that Signos also had a concussion. She connected the larger scanner pod to the bed Jessica was in, and activated the deep scan. "Lieutenant Rixx, sir, I believe we need to prepare the chamber for this one." she yelled at the position where CMO Rixx was helping the wounded. (Reply: Korvin Rixx) "The scans are currently under way." Andersen explained as an answer to Rixx's question. "We could cauterize the wounds with high-precision laser, but I'm worried that some of the parts of the grenade got lodged inside of her." Ailyn explained to Rixx. (Reply: Rixx) "Aye, sir, after the scans are complete, if there's any shrapnel-like parts, we'll have to do the operation, if there aren't directly to the chamber for tissue regeneration, Got it Sir." she repeated again a part of his orders, to better remember them, she was getting some nasty side-effects of her stims by now. She knew it was stims because she was a doctor, and she could understand the symptoms. Rixx offered her a piece of his wisdom. Rixx was a good Doc, silent, efficient and always concentrated at the situation at hands. Andersen definitely learned something from him today. =/\= Medical steam to the Bridge =/\= Jackson ordered through the commbadge. ~Great, perfect timing.~ she thought. She turned to CMO Rixx, "Sir, I don't think we can leave Signos like this, which one of us will stay?" she asked Rixx directly. Perhaps this was not common way to communicate with the higher ranking chief, but in times of need, Doctors seemed to have a system of their own. (Reply: Rixx) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Rosenante – Bridge – Lt Tom Jackson – 2O/COPS – Day 2 – 0219) Tom ran onto the bridge. His beloved Rose was under attack and he was determined to save her further damage. He sat at his accustomed seat and looked over the ship’s status. The ship shuddered as more hits were scored on the Rose. “Rerouting non-essential power to the shields and structural integrity fields” Tom shouted over the din. (Reply: Soma, any present) “Sir, shields holding at 90% but I suggest we finish this ASAP” Tom said to the CO. (Reply: Ben) The tactical officer was down and slightly injured. Tom tapped his badge and ordered – Medical steam to the Bridge”. (Reply: Ailyn, Dr. Rixx) Ben was maneuvering the ship to lessen the impact of the stations weapons array. “Engineering – do we have a lock on our remaining crew on the station?” Tom asked as acting First Officer. (Reply: Any in Engineering) Some of the Tesla’s crew had made it to the Rose’s bridge at last. Tom was glad for the help as the Captain and he were VERY busy. Ensign Michaels was part of the Tesla’s crew and Tom had ordered her to the bridge. Steve Matrix would be busy in the Engineering area and Tom wanted an engineer on the bridge working with Steve. “Ensign Michaels – take over the Engineering costationa nd work with Cmdr. Matrix” Tom ordered. (Reply: Michaels) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0220) Tho'var was working on the portal control room, also arguing with Sanok, when they received a communication from the Rosenante. =/\= Soma to Sanok and Kevras.....We're unable to get a lock on your positions, please respond.=/\= Tho'var examined the console. The input he was entering into the console had increased the radioactivity (among other things) created by the portal. It was probably blocking the transponder signal. "I'm trying to compensate sir." Tho'var said. After a few more changes, the radiation lowered to normal level. Tho'var muted the communication for a second. "Commander, making sure the USS Rosenante get through the portal safely, means I need to stabilize the portal connection enough time for the Rosenante to get through. To do that I have no choice but to enter several new commands to change the portal actual state, and then and only then....when the portal is stable, the maths and calculations are done, and the timing is appropriate will we be able to beam back. This experience shows us it is likely the interference caused by the new portal parameters might be high enough to prevent a transporter lock. There is a risk sir, and I would prefer you beam back to the Rosenante before I start. If indeed we can't beam back, I would prefer I am the only casualty." (Reply Sanok) Tho'var entered a series of information on a PADD, based on the calcul he just did on the portal console. "Here sir, give that to ensign Maddox or Lieutenant-Commander Matrix. He will understand them and will be able to tell you if I have succeeded in creating the desired portal parameters. If I have but you are unable to beam me back, then go without me. As for the station, whatever happen, once I activate the bomb, it will trigger an explosion that will destroy all the portal control room and deflector. Once destroyed, the portal will collapse and there will be no way to open it ever again." (Reply Sanok) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lt. Cmdr. Sanok, Day 2, 0221) Matrix must have overheard Sanok give Captain Soma the General Order 24, as the expression on the engineer's face was of disbelief. He asked Sanok what to do, and Sanok had told him the Rosenante was going to begin beaming off the members of the crew, so he needed Matrix to make sure everyone got off the station. Trusting that Matrix would get it done, Sanok found Kevras. After everyone else had been beamed off, the captain contacted them. =^=Soma to Sanok and Kevras. We're unable to get a lock on your positions. Please respond.=^= Since Kevras was working on the portal controls, Sanok let him respond to the captain. "I'm trying to compensate, sir." Kevras muted the comm signal and explained the situation to Sanok. Apparently, in order to insure that the Hikani didn't retake the control room and deactivate the portal, thus stranding the Rosenante thousands of light years from Federation space, someone had to stay behind. Kevras stated the obvious, and the logical. "There is a risk sir, and I would prefer you beam back to the Rosenante before I start. If indeed we can't beam back, I would prefer I am the only casualty." Sanok's Vulcan logic was the first thing to fill his thoughts. He knew what Kevras was saying was correct. They couldn't risk losing the way home, and the stability of the wormhole had to be maintained by someone. Sanok couldn't do that, so it had to be Kevras. After that, Sanok thought of Klagth. He had befriended Sanok and Ben years ago on Axtis III. The old Klingon had helped them rescue Marah from Orion slavers. In the process, Klagth had been wounded in a firefight and chose to stay behind so Sanok could escape. Having lived most of his early life with his emotions, and seeing the Klagth situation facing him again, it was all Sanok could do to not allow his past to overcome him. Sanok really had no choice but to do what he knew was the correct and logical thing to do. "Very well, Mister Kevras, I will beam back to the Rosenante, but if you are not there as we are about to enter the portal, I will come back for you." Kevras handed Sanok a PADD, telling him to give it to Matrix and Maddox, who would know what to do. He also made the statement that if he could not be beamed off the station, the Rosenante was to leave without him. Deep down inside, they both already knew what was going to happen. Kevras went on to explain about a bomb he was setting, to insure the portal technology would be destroyed, and the Hikani would be stopped from invading the Federation. Sanok and Kevras looked at each other for a moment. They did not know each other well, but they had been forced to share an unpleasant first contact with the Hikani. Now, one of them was leaving, and the other probably was not. Sanok raised his right hand. "Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras, live long and prosper." With that, he left, returning to where the Rosenante could get a transporter lock on him. It was time to go home. (reply none) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Rosenante – Main Engineering – LCDR Steven Matrix – CEO – Day 2 – 0222) ~Damn it this is really beginning to piss me off.~ thought Matrix as the Rose rocked again against the onslaught of fire. “Engineering – do we have a lock on our remaining crew on the station?” Tom asked as acting First Officer. =^= Matrix to Jackson...unclear...transporters are online, but getting intermittent readings. Our data feeds into the short range scanners are down. I need a second set of eyes up there to relay your telemetry feed. =^= replied Matrix (Reply Jackson) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Rosenante, Bridge, Ensign Alicia Michaels, Day 2, 0223) “Ensign Michaels – take over the Engineering costationa nd work with Cmdr. Matrix” Tom ordered. "Yes Sir" Alicia said as she got to the Engineering co station and started to work with Commander Matrix. (Posted by: Charlotte K.) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0225) "Very well, Mister Kevras, I will beam back to the Rosenante, but if you are not there as we are about to enter the portal, I will come back for you." Sanok had replied. Tho'var had expected to have to argue about remaining behind, but it revealed having a Vulcan as FO had been exactly the best thing that could have happened in that instant. It was a logical conclusion, so Sanok accepted. What Tho'var didn"t say was the reason he was doing it. It was not for any logical reason. It was an emotional one. The Andorians and Aenars were both almost extinct because of Doenitz"s genocide. The USS Rosenante, more especially Commander Sanok, had been ready to order a similar action. Order 24. Tho'var never understood why such order existed. On what basis could you kill people to save your own life? Such order was a way to legitimize genocide. Doenitz had done the same. There is always a reason to justify killing. Every specie have shown it : Human, Vulcan, Andorians. This has been the reason why the Aenar had remained isolated from their cousin, the Andorian. They preferred to avoid their violent culture. The Aenar had been one of the rare specie who never had committed any form of violence in their history. They were pacifist, real one. A real pacifist would not even fight someone with a gun pointed at his head. Violence created violence. The only way to avoid violence was to completely forbid any expression of it. Being 3/8 Andorian, Tho'var had not succeeded. Andorian were violent and passionate, so was he. That was probably why he enrolled in Starfleet. It was also why he reacted so violently to the genocide of his people. Yet, he could not forget the Aenar heritage.....he was 5/8 Aenar. He was closer to Aenar culture than Andorian one. Despite how often he failed, he was still tempted by the pacifist value of the Aenar. By staying behind, Tho'var hoped to prevent the Rosenante to kill the Hikani. He would do whatever he could to prevent it. He knew he could both allow the Rosenante to get through the portal, and destroy the portal control room once the Rosenante was safe. What he didn't say was the fact he was still unsure about the yield of the explosion. If the explosion was too big, he might be doing the exact thing he wanted to prevent : destroy the station and every Hikani on board. But if the yield was too small, it was possible the Hikani could repair the damage done and recreate a new portal. If only he had better tools and better means to control the yield of the explosion. "Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras, live long and prosper." "You too sir." Tho'var replied before looking at Sanok dematerializing. He was now alone, with the freedom to do what was right. (Reply no one) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Rosenate, Sickbay, ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos, Day 2, 0227) Jessica drifted in and out, she was becoming less aware of the happenings around here, and focusing evermore difficult. The battle to destroy the station raged, for Jessica that battle was a lifetime away. The computer scanning her body would tell the tale on how clos to death she was. This wss the trade off on her life. She had come to terms with her place long ago. She had accepted she would never again understand what it would mean to love. She was a weapon after all, section 31 did there job well in making her into a object pf death. It was then she realized another person at her side or so she thought. Maybe it was the blood loss, the shock her body had gone though, or maybe the large amount of drugs that coursed though her that caused what happened next. For in Jessica's eyes Lily was standing next to her. Lavender eyes looking over Jessica taking stock of there shared body. 'How long do you think you can do this.' Lily spoke in Jessica's mind. "Has long has long as I must." Jessica replied weakly giving voice to her thoughts. 'So you want to die then.' Lily responded. "When I die I will be free of your burden." Jessica spoke softly. 'You will and you'll be free from your long life, but are you ready to die alone, not family, no friends.' Lily tilted her head considering the girl before her and what she knew of her before continuing. 'No one to love you.' Tears flowed from her eyes the words from her alternate persona stinging her deeply. "All my life as been one... sacrafic after another, yes I will die alone and unloved but I will die and you Lily... will... be forgotten." Jessica spoke between coughing fits leaving a small pool of blood on the biobed. 'So is that the measure of you resolve... ' Lily thought for a moment. 'You have come further that any have given you credit for. But I can not le you die yet.' Lily reached down and held Jessica's hand. In that moment the line between reality and Jessica's mi d blured and she swore she could feel the warmth of Lily's hand on hers. A soft caress that told her she was not alone, but it was not the company she would have prefered. (Reply any in medical iyw) (Posted by Matthew Locke) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 0229) As soon as Sanok left the Station, Tho'var made sure to block every entrance and filling the room with whatever he had access to prevent anyone from beaming in the room. It would be too much a risk if the Hikani could enter the room before he was done. Once he did, he returned to the console. Since he had been aware of Order 24, his strategy had changed radically. From what he understood from the hours spent on the console, the portal had been stable for a reason. The range of sensors and automatic programming made the portal stable by itself. There was no need of any intervention to make it stable, the automated process correcting automatically any change that was happening. So, his plan had been all along to stay behind and try to negotiate with the Hikani, while making sure the USS Rosenante would get back to home safely. That was before the USS Rosenante fired on the other ship, before Sanok and the reinforcement killed several more Hikani, and before Order 24 was pronounced. Now, any diplomatic attempt would certainly fail, and the Hikani would certainly be tempted to travel through the portal once more if it wasn