USS Rosenante Compile
Through the Looking Glass 3

====================

Through the Looking Glass
Day 1
Stardate: 2414.06.11

====================

(Earth - Unknown - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 1 - 1313)

Opening her eyes to see she's laying down on grass. Dumbfounded to where she is, she
quickly stands up, looking all around her, gasping at what she's seeing, Ailyn could
not believe her eyes.

A typical quiet earth neighborhood. With the little trees and sidewalks, in a dead of
night. But something is wrong. Something is terribly wrong. She can feel it.

It did not help that the sky blackened, and only at times would moon jump out of
hiding between the heavy clouds.

~Where... where is everybody?~ Ailyn could hear her own words inside her head.

Coming to her senses, she decided to check in with one of the local houses.
Walking around, she picked one that had the lights on the third store.
Strangely, no matter how fast she walked, she could not feel her legs.

As Ailyn heads up the walk to the front door of the house, she notices the curtains
are all drawn. Finaly arriving to the doors, she grabs the handle, only to see the
doors opening themselves.

~Okay that's.. that's weird.~ Ailyn stated the obvious. She always had knack for it.

Ailyn gulped. She could feel cold shivers down her spine. The house was in complete
darkness.

The house was an old one, by the design, had to be old atleast 200 years. This seemed
unlikely, and it was much more likely it was a modern house designed to look
from the specific period by the owners. After all, that was the new house design fashion
after the civil war.

"Hello?" asked Ailyn while still standing at the doors. There were no way she was 
closing them, the only flash of light was coming from the lights outside.

"Hello?" she asked again, but there was no answer. Her voice echoed through the empty
house.

Shivering, she finally decided to check the backpack she had on herself all along.
Handily, it contained a strange locket, with an eye inside the semi-circle symbol inside of 

it, an empty piece of folded paper and, strangely, a flashlight.

~That's... a little bit too convinient.~ thought Ailyn and made a face.

Grabbing the flashlight and quickly turning it on, she could finally see at least a

portion of the room in front of her. The tapestry on the walls were somehow familiar
to her, but she could not remember from where.

By now walking dilligently through the house, she could swear it was bigger then it 
looked from the outside. Still, this made no sense.

~Don't be silly. That's not possible.~ She kept saying to herself.

The flashlight blinked a couple of times, each time being off for a little longer, and 
in that second, Ailyn stopped. She could feel the pressure in her head.

~IIEEEKK~
A vicious powerful scream inside her head completely took her by surprise. Feeling a
sharp pain in her head, she dropped down on her knees, letting the flashlight fall,
and covered her head with her hands.

~Make it stop, make it stop, make it stop...~ Ailyn was on the floor, she could feel as
thousand little needles went through the skin of her head. Her nose bleeding. The scream,
like a white noise continued in her mind only to come to a full silence only moments later.

She opened her eyes.
She was laying down in the darkness, with the flashlight broken. Grasping for air finally,
she breathed hard deep and loud, only to halt her breathing.

~That... feeling... again~ the mind reminded Ailyn.

She felt it again. She felt being watched.

The dead silence breaks into a rattle inside the house. Ailyn stopped dead, not even 
breathing. The rattling noise is coming closer and closer. She could hear it entering
the room, almost at her.

Panicking, she quickly grabs the curtains, opening them in one quick motion, only to
reveal a small puppy robot looking at her.

Sighing in the relief, thinking how stupid must of been to be frightened so hard
by the little robot pet, she picks it up and turns it off, putting it back on the
sofa, thinking to herself ~Don't start creating monsters in your head.~

That was something her father used to tell her before the sleep. There are no monsters
in under the bed, there are no monsters cupboard. Only there are monsters, and they
took away her father. But this wasn't the best time to thing about that.

Looking at the robot for a second, she finally remembered she had one just like that.
~Wait, this IS Luna~ Ailyn is captured by the markings the robot has on it's leg, an
nameplate and a small symbol that was engraved by her mother as a gift to her, only to
hear the main doors ring.

Quickly jumping to her feet, she proceeds through several rooms, opening the curtains
in each and every one of them, to finally come upon the doors.

Opening them, she finds no one outside. Standing still for several seconds, as if she's
waiting for something to happen, she decides to close them down again.

She ponders for a second of what her situation is. Forcing her logical mind to work to
it's full speed, she only comes to one conclusion.

~I'm transferred back to earth, the people left in an emergency.~

The last thing she could remember is that she just started serving on the USS Rosenante.
She remembered she went to another ship, but everything behind that was blurry.

~I don't remember my mission, but I'll help all the people I can find here. There has
been an attack on earth most likely. I must have hit my head when I fell down on that
grass. Damn, if only I could remember my mission.~ Ailyn was talking with herself, moving
her head as if she was talking to someone else.

She's sitting on the chair close to the main doors, aimlessly looking around her, when
she catches a glimpse of a figure in the window outside. Quickly standing up, she 
approaches the window, but with her blink, the figure dissapeared.

With a glass-breaking sound, one of the rear windows in the house crashes.

Stunned out of fear and in cold sweat, she slowly turns and goes further into the house
to check the window.

~This is not a good idea, Ailyn.~ But she wasn't listening to herself.

Finally getting to the room, she noticed someone threw a piece of small rock through the
window and that nothing came through it. Finally, her heavy heart beating was slowing
down. She closed down the doors to the room, bringing a chair infront of it to hold the
doors. As she moved the heavy chair, it broke the handle on the doors, making sure no
one could open them up on this side. She did not minded, however, as long as she felt
safe.

~Better safe then sorry...~ she remembered her mother's words. Thinking them, she almost
muttered them in her chin.

She would not find piece for very long, however, another crash and a sound of glass
breaking was heard somewhere on the third floor. This time, however, a heavy walking
trailed the sound of walking over glass. Someone was definitely up there.

Ailyn could feel the fear overwhelming her, her hands shaking, and she completely
shivering. She could not think of anything else but getting out.

Turning around, she noticed there were no handle on the doors she just blocked.
Running through two completely dark rooms to get to the main corridor and get to main
doors, she quickly grabbed the handle, only to find the doors are bolted. But not from 
the inside. 

She wasn't stopping there, grabbing one of the antique wooden chairs, she threw over her 

into the glass. But this glass wouldn't brake.

Ailyn turned to the other part of the house, remembering the rooms there have a small
glasses that perhaps she could fit through, but she hesitated for few seconds.

Few seconds. It was enough.

She could hear the heavy footsteppes closer and closer, and if she could judge, it
sounded as if they were coming from the stairs, between the first floor and the corridor
she was in.

Quickly running underneath the stairs, opening the small passage to find herself in a
small room under the stairs. She closed her mouths with her hands to conceal her heavy
breathing. 

The inside of the small cupboard under the stairs were dirty, and cramped and when the
figure above would walk, dust would fall all over her.

It really seemed as if the person was in no hurry.

Ailyn is standing frozen in shock and horror. She isn't moving. She isn't breathing.
She's only listening.

The footsteppes stopped. Ailyn opened her eyes, peeping through a hole in the doors.

To her horror, the figure is right infront. Turned away, looking towards the other room
but she could still feel the presence. A dread, foul aura that sapped any kind of
courage from her. She heard a very feint hissing sound as well but as she gulped, the
sound stopped. It seemed as the figure was thinking she was into one of the other rooms.

It didn't took it long to leave.

Ailyn moved the hand from her mouths. Breathing out deeply, she once again took a peak
through the hole. She could not see it, nor hear it.

Deciding she should go for the bathroom with the small window, she checks yet once again
to see if someone's there.

Slowly opening the cupboard doors, trying not to make any kind of sound, she feels
unmistakingly as being watched again. The darkness around her feels ominous, closing
in on her, threatening.

She could hear the faint hissing sound somewhere around her...

She hurries up, heading towards the bathroom, but as it's dark, she tramp over
something on the floor, falling down with a loud hit on the floor.

The backpack she was carrying falls down, opening, the contents sent flying at the
other, more lit side of the room. The locket hits the floor and is lost in the
darkness around, the moonlight and the lights outside reflect on the unfolded paper. 

But something's wrong with this piece of paper. Ailyn fixes upon it. There is blood on it.
Hand written, or perhaps even finger written, it simply says "Help me".

She feels the presence nearby, watching her all this time, feeding upon her emotions of
fear. She can feel the anger in it's look. Finally turning her head towards it, she looks
it in its eyes. The glimpse of the moon lit the face. Only a pair of black eyes could
she see. The eyes that had no mercy inside.

Quickly standing up, not even thinking anything, her survival instincts completely taking
control, she tried running right into the bathroom but was struck on her left leg, with a 

very high force, feeling as if it is broken, she went right in the bathroom, closed the 

doors, locking them down. Then still pulling the handle frantically.

The doors moved from the hit, but she was able to hold them back. Several seconds passed
in silence.

Then another hit, this time stronger, the doors moved and was close to breaking.

~Please, go away, go away... go away~ was the only thing Ailyn could think of.

Then there was silence.

Finally letting go of the handle but still standing on the doors, she pulled her fingers
over her hair. She was in a shock. This was not happening. 

She was caught offguard with the third hit of the doors... doors hitting her so she fell
down on the floor, hitting her head, that felt like it has been split in two. 

Moving her head up, covering the part of the forehead that was bleeding with her hand,
she looked at the doors. Strangely, they were still closed. She did not move a lot now,
she could feel the pain in her body, specially her head. She was just laying there.

Waiting.

Waiting and crying.

She noticed the small locket that she lost in darkness. It was right beside her.
Picking it up, she once again noticed the strange symbol it had. It had a meaning.
But she wasn't really sure what it was. If she could only know, perhaps that is
why she was hunted. For the locket. Or perhaps the paper and a locket was part of
some kind of sick game her hunter was playing with her.

The light from the outside dimmed in the locket, from the window right behind her,
and she did not wanted to look back. The reeking of a presence behind her was so
strong she was mesmerized. Only catching a last reflection in the locket of the
herself and the creature behind her, the wooden floor becking under it, she was 
grabbed by the neck, pulled up and turned so she faced her nemesis. 

Trying to scream, to her horror, she produced no sound.

She looked at the eyes in front, trying to find some mercy.
Feeling her neck tightening so much she couldn't breathe anymore, she took one
last swing with her arms at the creature in defiance, that did not even hit.

Feeling last sips of life leaving her, Ailyn closed her eyes. She was ready to go.

(USS Rosenante - Sickbay - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 1 - 1321)

Ailyn opened her eyes in a shock, watching all over where she is and where is the
creature. But the only one she could see was an unknown doctor above her that was
tending to her. 

He said something to her, but she did not hear him. Her vision was a bit blurry, and
she felt very weak. Her head was still hurting, and she really felt like she's been
ran over.

Instead of answering she nodded, closed her eyes, and once again fell asleep.

(Reply: None)
(Posted by: Lani)

-----

(USS Tesla -- Bridge -- CEO, LCDR Steven Matrix -- 1319)

The work to isolate and infiltrate the Tesla's computer system was underway. Matrix was encouraged by the ideas he and Maddox were attempting to put forward.

"We're looking for what Mister Maddox? Any ideas where to start?" asked Matrix.

"I've cataloged every file in this science terminal.  Observing the data streams of what happens when various encryption algorithms are applied I've determined what the encryption does, and the file that has to be the encryption itself." Andrew said.

"Nice work Mister Maddox. If their algorithms are that sophisticated we could chasing our tails. Whomever put this together may have thought to disguise such attempts. Let's hope not." said Matrix as he continued to work.

"If I'm correct the way this thing works is the encryption file is stored in a sealed file in the main computer. They set it up well in advance, and at a moment's notice a simple pass code or verbal command code would unseal the file.  After that the file downloads itself to each terminal and access point and locks it." continued Maddox.

Matrix ached from the awkward position he was forced to work in, however briefly. "I suspect you're right Mister Maddox." said Matrix as he checked his tricorder readings. "...yup...I've scanned the isolinear chips in this panel. Of the 27 here, four exhibit recent activity and are not the default configuration. Meaning...they've been programmed recently. In fact an isolated scan on one shows it to contain garbled data. Perhaps this one has been encrypted Mister Maddox. What do you propose we do next?" asked Matrix.

"Even if we manage to unlock one terminal or even the main computer, we would have to unlock each terminal or it will just copy itself and reassert control with possibly a different passcode.  What I propose is that we find on each terminal where the encryption is as in which isolinear chip, and sever the chip's connection. We leave that terminal off-line and then take the chip.  I estimate we would end up collecting 72 some chips before we then would have to go to the main computer core to then disable the program.

"Okay...lets start with this terminal. I'll disconnect the umbilical data feed and its backup. It won't be able to communicate with the main computer or other terminal sections. Note the apparent encrypted isochip is number 23 and its yellow. It would be interesting if all of the others were in that same configuration." said Matrix as he continued to work under the panel.

A few moments passed as Matrix worked to configure terminal B09-14E from its data feeds. "Okay...that should do it. On the left panel if you input 'command B8' twice it will disconnect the data feed from this panel." said Matrix as he moved from under the terminal panel and stood up.

"Let's give it a shot." said Matrix.

(Reply Maddox)
(Posted by Steve)

-----

(USS Rosenante,Bridge,Ops NCOIC, MCPO Phil Sheridan,Day 1, 1323)

Phil Sheridan was manning Ops when the call from the Tesla.The call for an
emergency beam out wasn't what Phil had hopes to hearing

Phil reacted quickly and located the call's coordinates and radioed "
energizing now".

He then alerted Sick Bay "Dr Rixx emergency beam in - be ready - Sheridan
out." Phil closed the link.

"Rosenante to Tesha do you require anything further? Sheridan asked.

(Reply: Tesha)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Tesla - Bridge - Science Officer - Ensign Andrew Maddox - 1327)

Andrew had just finished removing, no not removing, severing the last
affected isolinear chip from all the bridge's systems.  Andrew held the ten
chips and spread them out like thick playing cards.  He tapped his combadge.

"Maddox to Lieutenant Jackson." He said.

(Reply Jackson)

"Yes sir, just calling with an update." Andrew said.

(Reply Jackson)

"Freeing the entire ODN will require severing of the particular chip in that
terminal that locks it,  and then after all affected terminals are freed
then the encryption program in the core must be broke and commanded to go
dormant again. That I'm sure will free up all the systems to working order."
Andrew reported.

(Reply Jackson)

"Working by myself, approximately 4 hours, most of the time needed is
transitory moving from one place to another.  Then the main computer
encryption will still need to be cracked.  I don't suspect that will take
longer than an hour.  If Commander Matrix is not presently needed in
Engineering, that would easily cut my time table in half, as would
additional qualified help, once they know the plan, would decrease the time
needed to get the Tesla operational by an appropriate factor." Maddox
explained.

(Reply Jackson)

"The most important part of this procedure is that those stations secured
need to have no contact with either main computer. If it did it would lock
up again as the program re-asserted itself, or the program could transfer to
the Rose and lock up all of our systems.  I  suppose that if a system was
needed in an emergency, like shields or propulsion, we can isolate that and
run it off a portable computer unit.  So any system you would want run in an
emergency we would need a computer system brought over for each and we would
have to isolate each system and it would have to be run off of that
computer."

(reply Jackson)
(Posted by Todd)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Brig, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1, 1328)

Ben regarded the man on the other side of the force field, if looks could kill he would have been a dead man. Torell just stood there, inches from the barrier, and stared. He remained silent, there was no sounds coming from him at all. Ben wondered just what happened to cause this man to behave as he was. An officer with Torells record wouldn't act this way unless he had snapped, there was nothing in his record suggesting mental instability. On the contrary, since Torell was of Betazed he would have undergone extreme conditioning to endure the stresses placed on him by members of his crew. Betazoid's trained extensively to cope with the added stress of being on a starship. Why had this one broken down? This was getting him no where, he had injured officers in sickbay to check on. Sanok, Tom and Anderson had both been attacked by Torell and had been transported back to the Rose for treatment. Turning from the cell he could still feel Torell's eyes burning
 into the back of his head, stepping back into the main area of the brig he stopped by Hudson.

"Mr. Hudson." He said. "If our guest should become chatty inform me immediately."

Ben then left the brig and continued down the corridor to the lift.

Ben entered sickbay to find three of his officers laying on bio beds, Anderson appeared to be the least injured of the three. Tom looked as he he'd went through half a dozen rounds with a Nausiccan. He saw Marah standing over Sanok, what he noticed about her facial expressions wasn't encouraging. He moved to Anderson's bed first.

"Doctor." He said. "How are you feeling."

(reply Anderson)

"Get some rest first." He said. "Then you can give me a full report of what happened on the Tesla."

(reply Anderson)

"Physician heal thy self." He said with a small smile.

He then moved to Tom's bed.

"We need to get you some better sparring lessons Tom." He said. "Dahlia would never forgive me if you were permanently scarred."

It was an attempt at humor and he hoped it helped Tom to relax a little, what happened wasn't considered. It came as a surprise to everyone.

(reply Jackson)

"No one anticipated this." He said. "Let's be thankful that it wasn't worse."

(reply Jackson)

"Get some rest Tom." Ben said. "We'll get to the bottom of this."

(reply Jackson iyw)

Ben then moved to Sanok's bed and stood beside Marah, who looked at him.

"I don't know what to do Ben." She said. "There are no physical injuries or internal injuries, his neuro scans are off the scale on times and almost normal at other times. It's as if he's fighting his part of the battle mentally."

Ben moved closer to Sanok's bed and leaned in placing a hand on his shoulder.

"Hang in there old friend." He said ."We'll get you out of this, we just need a little time."

(reply as above, Sanok if able)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Sick Bay ,2O/COPS, LT. Tom Jackson, Day 1 , 1331)

Tom laid gingerly ib the bio bed. Torrell had done a good job using a
punching bag.

Dr. Rixx was checking Tom over. Tim could never read a Bolian's expression.

Tom ventured a query to the doctor.

"Will I live Doc?" He asked.

Rixx shook his head and said "not if you keep being a punching bag".

Tom grimaced as the doctor poked and prodded Tom one last time.

"Other than some deep bruises you are cleared to return to duty. I believe
the captain wants to speak to you shortly " the CMO replied.

Tom sat up slowly and looked at Ben Soma as he looked down at Sanok.

This was not a commanding officer worried about a crewman. This was a man
in agony  over the distress of a close friend.

Tom straightened up as the skipper cane over to him.

Tom was traded by the skipper about needing some boxing lessons.

"I have to agree with you Captain. Dahlia would kill us both otherwise" Tom
smiled.

"Sir, request permission to return to the Tesla. I could use Dr. Anderson
if she is fit" Tom asked.

(Reply: Captain)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Sick Bay ,CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1 , 1333)

"Sir, request permission to return to the Tesla. I could use Dr. Anderson if she is fit" Tom asked.

Ben regarded Tom for a moment, he would have preferred that his second officer had some time to recuperate but if Rixx had no objections and Tom felt up to the task he couldn't argue.

"Alright Tom." Ben said. "You can return to the Tesla, I'll have  Doctor Anderson accompany you as requested and because I want her to monitor your condition."

Ben turned to Anderson.

"Do you feel up to returning to the Tesla Doctor?" Ben inquired.

(reply Anderson)

"Then I want to to keep an eye on Lieutenant Jackson." Ben instructed. "At the first sign of complications have him stop whatever he's doing and treat him, stun him if you have to." Ben added the last remark with a smile.

(reply Anderson)

Turning back to Tom he still had the smile on his face.

"If you feel off in the slightest have Doctor Anderson give you a once over." He stated. "I'd rather err on the side of caution, you've taken a few licks and I know what that's like."

(reply Jackson)

"I'll expect an update at the top of the hour." Ben said. "We need to break that lockout and gain access to the ships logs to see if they hold anything pertinent to our investigation."

(reply Jackson)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Rosenante - Sickbay - ACMO Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen - Day 1 - 1334)

Opening her dreamy eyes again after another of the many naps she had in a short while,Ailyn was lying down on a bio bed, her wounds already healed by the team, however she could still feel the phantom pain at times. As silly as it is, her body could not forget the pain.Feeling embarassed for the fact her first away mission ended pretty bluntly and caused herto loose consciousness, being unable to help the team. Seeing Sanok on a bio bed near didn'thelp at all. She was happy for one thing, that she was alive and well. 
Grasping some current reality and her surroundings, she remembered the flashbacks she had.Clearly, she suffered a head trauma, and she knew memory losses weren't uncommon in thesesituations. She only hoped to remember enough to do her report.
Ailyn moved her head up at the sound of sickbay door opening. Captain Soma entered the sickbay, looking at Ailyn and the other two officers. Moving towards Ailyn's bed.

"Doctor." He said."How are you feeling."

~How am I feeling? Like I've been hit by a meteorite. Yeah, that just about sums it up.~But Ailyn wanted back on her feet as soon as possible so she can actually start being useful. And being a negative blunt wasn't exactly a way to talk to your CO.

"Like new, Sir." explained Ailyn with a smile. While still seeing things a bit blurry, she was regaining her focus and finally was able to see the details on Captain's face.

"Permission to get back at my post." asked Ailyn, trying to look stiff and ready.

"Get some rest first." Ben said. "Then you can give me a full report of what happened on the Tesla."

"Yes, sir." said Ailyn and noddedIn all reality there wasn't much to tell. And Ailyn felt she kind of missed the best part of it.
She looked towards Sanok. It didn't seem he was in a good condition. Looking back at Captain, Ailyn could see the face of a woman standing over Sanok. Her face proving Ailyn's fear that Sanok is in the worst condition of them all.

"He took a beating for all of us." said Ailyn while looking at Sanok."I should be up and monitor him." explained Ailyn. Monitoring was the only thing they could do. After healing his injuries, he should be back on his feet. Whatever Torell did to him, seemed to work. The troubling part, Ailyn thought, was that it was done on a Vulcan. A race with high mental resistance. She was even more certain now that Torell holds answers for them.

"Physician heal thy self." said Ben with a small smile.

Captain Soma moved to Sanok's bed. The two standing over Sanok started talking, but Ailyn was in her thoughts and couldn't think about what they were saying. She was trying to remember the details of the fight before she floated away unconsciouss.

Ailyn had a work-around for her bad memory. Before every sleep, she would tell herself she would remember all her dreams, to every detail. She would go to sleep with these words, and when she would wake up, she would remember many details from her dreams.This was the only way she could remember her father and her childhood, since her mother destroyed all the video and picture logs in her madness, for a reason Ailyn could never understand. 

Flashes of memories in a conflicting clarity started flooding like a heavy rain infront of Ailyn's eyes. She remembered the look Torell gave to Sanok. It didn't make much sense. 

Specially since Torell was a Starfleet officer. Perhaps she was wrong in being so eager to let him out of his cryo. Perhaps he was still holding answers to their questions. Perhaps she opened a book that was never meant to be opened. 

But, just like many times before, a med-scientist in her agreed that this was a right course of action. Torell could hold a lot of information. She only wished it was her who took most of the beating instead of Sanok, she did not mind the pain - for something she thought was a good cause. 

While in her thoughts, she was looking at the single point in the sickbay, which happened to be a wall. Everything aside the center point being blurred, she blinked and snapped out. 

Looking around her. Her eyes getting teary, she tried to resolve this by blinking some more.Was a bit embarassing, but she was sure no one caught it. Still, for a moment, Ailyn felt like a monkey.

"Sir, request permission to return to the Tesla. I could use Dr. Anderson if she is fit" Jackson asked
Ailyn looked between Jackson and Soma, waiting for the Captain to respond. Perhaps she could finally have a reason to be up and far away from her bio bed. She didn't like feeling all sick here. Moving her hands to support her, what now felt like a pretty heavy, head, waiting like a child to a candy, while looking at the two gentlemen talking.

"Alright Tom." Ben said. "You can return to the Tesla, I'll have Doctor Anderson accompany you as requested and because I want her to monitor your condition."
Ailyn smirked, this was good news indeed. No matter how much uncomfortable that ship made her feel, everything was better then lying on a bio bed and not being able to help the situation in any way. And this also meant she might be more succesful on the second visit to the ship. Now that Torell was on Rosenante, there wasn't anyone that could interfere.

Captain Soma turned towards Ailyn.

"Do you feel up to returning to the Tesla Doctor?" asked the Captain
"Yes, sir. I'm ready and able." explained Ailyn, trying to stand up.She had to grab the bio bed, just to be sure she wouldn't fall. Lying down really made her too relaxed.

"Then I want to to keep an eye on Lieutenant Jackson." Captain instructed."At the first sign of complications have him stop whatever he's doing and treat him, stun him if you have to." Ben added with a smile
Ailyn smiled at the remark. 

Turning back to Jackson, Captain explained further. Ailyn stood up, checking her hair which was a mess.
Captain Soma explained to Jackson that he expects an update every hour. Turning away from the gents, Ailyn proceeded to the other room to get ready for her second visit to the Tesla.

(Reply: Any iyw)\
(Posted by: Lani)

-----

(USS Rosenante – Sick Bay – 2O/COPS – LT. Tom Jackson - 1336)

Ton was about to be released back to duty when the call came in from Andrew
Maddox on the Tesla.

=^= Yes sir, just calling with an update.=^= Andrew said.

" Go ahead Ensign" Tom replied.

Andrew quickly explained what he had found out.  Maddox yet again was very
detailed.

Tom mulled over Andrew's report a second before replying.

"Excellent work Andrew. Use whomever is needed and proceed as you've
outlined. But be careful and alert for anything - someone spent a fair
amount of time setting this up" Tom replied.

(Reply: Andrew)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Rosenante - Sickbay - 2O/COPS - LT. Tom Jackson Day 1 - 1337)

Jackson grinned as Ben had told Dr. Anderson to stun him if he resisted
treatment. Ben knew Tom well by now and he had to agree with him on that
point!

Doc Anderson and Tom headed out of Sick Bay. Once they were alone, Jackson
paused.  He asked  the doc "Do you still have that 'being watched' feeling?"

(Reply: Doc Anderson)

"I noticed as well that when we left the Tesla the 'being watched' feeling
went away" Tom thought outloud".

(Reply: Doc)

(USS Rosenante - Transporter Room 1 - LT. Tom Jackson - 2O/COPS - Day 1 -
1340)

Tom and the Doctor entered the Transporter Room. Each took a pad and Tom
ordered "Energize".

(Reply: None)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Rosenante – Sickbay – ACMO Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen – Day 1 – 1339)

Ailyn and Tom headed out of sickbay, with slow walking pace and once they were alone, Jackson paused.

“Do you still have that ‘being watched’ feeling?” asked Jackson

Ailyn let out a long sigh. It was relieving to hear she wasn’t alone in this feeling. She finally knew she wasn’t crazy.
At least not completely.

“Oh yes, I’m glad I’m not alone. That place seriously gives me the creeps.” explained Ailyn

“I noticed as well when we left the Tesla the ‘being watched’ feeling went away.” said Jackson, as if he was thinking out loud.

“It definitely has to do with that place. There’s something very wrong about that ship, I just can’t put my finger on it.” said puzzled Ailyn.

The silence that followed probably meant both Jackson and Andersen were thinking while they were walking towards Transporter Room 1.

(USS Rosenante – Transporter Room 1 – ACMO Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen – Day 1 – 1341)

Jackson and Ailyn entered the Transporter Room. Everything was packed and they were ready to beam down.
Jackson took a PADD, followed by Ailyn did the same. Tom ordered “Energize” and the transporter systems
started their work. Ailyn closed her eyes, she could never look while using transporters. 


(Reply: None)
(Posted by: Lani)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Sickbay, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1, 1340)

After speaking with Tom and Doc Anderson Ben returned to Sanok's bed, Marah had said it was if he was fighting a battle in his mind. He was still unresponsive which bothered him, Sanok wasn't an individual to be taken down so easily. The attack by Torell must have been more involved than they suspected. He spotted Rixx of to the side and moved to speak with him.

"Doctor Rixx." Ben began. "What can you tell me about Sanok's current condition? Is this temporary or is he going to remain in this state?"

Ben hoped Rixx had some promising news to share, he hoped Sanok's current condition was temporary and not permanent. What had Torell done to him, how could a physical confrontation result in a catatonic Vulcan. Over the years he'd heard stories of Vulcan's enduring some pretty horrific assaults and mind melds gone wrong but nothing like this.

(reply Rixx)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Rosenante,Sickbay,CMO, Dr. Korvin Rixx, Day 1, 1343)

Dr. Rixx and Captain Soma discussed the FO's condition.

Rixx explained "Based on known Vulcan physiology, Sanok's condition is like
a mind meld gone bad. Whatever the Tesla officer did resembles that.

We gave two possibilities - 1) the officer acted on his own. He is a
Betazoid and nay have enhanced telepathic powers or 2) something is using
Torrel as a means to affect us".

(Reply: Soma)

Korvin added to the previous report by saying "Sanok's systems are acting
like white corpuscles would if you had an infection".

(Reply: Soma)

"As far as for what to do - we wait a bit longer. The readings are showing
a slight reduction heading toward normal levels for a Vulcan of his age".
Rixx explained.

(Reply : Soma)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Tesla - Sick Bay - LT. Tom Jackson - 2O/COPS - Day 1 -  1345)

Tom and the doctor re-materialized
In Sick Bay.

Tom tapped his com. Badge and sent "Tho'var your status please?"

(Reply: Nick)

Tom listened as the report cane in. Things seemed different than the last
time he was on board.

He turned to Dr.Anderson. He regarded the young doctor for a moment.

" Doctor, is it me or do you sense a different atmosphere? Jackson asked.

(Reply:  Doc)
(Posted by: Bill W)

-----

(USS Rosenante,Sickbay,CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1, 1346)

Rixx explained "Based on known Vulcan physiology, Sanok's condition 
is like a mind meld gone bad. Whatever the Tesla officer did resembles 
that.
We gave two possibilities - 1) the 
officer acted on his own. He is a Betazoid and nay have enhanced 
telepathic powers or 2) something is using Torrel as a means to affect us".

Ben did like the sound of that, he found it hard to believe Torell acted on his own but it was a possibility. Stress can cause a person to do any number of things, since Torell was a Betazoid he felt the stresses in a 
different manner. Having Torell being used was a more plausible 
explanation.

"I don't believe Torell was acting on his own." Ben replied. "It is more likely something is using him for their own means."  

Korvin added to the previous report by saying "Sanok's systems are acting like white corpuscles would if you had an infection".

"Is there anything you can do for him?" Ben asked. 

"As far as for what to do - we wait a bit longer. The readings are 
showing a slight reduction heading toward normal levels for a Vulcan of 
his age". Rixx explained.

Ben didn't like playing the waiting game but there was little he could do 
about it, at least Sanok was showing some sign of improvement.

"Let me know the moment his condition changes either way." Ben instructed. "I'm returning to the bridge."

(reply Rixx iyw)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Tesla, Main Shuttlebay, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1348)

Looking over the remaining shuttle, Tho'var was contacted by his superior. 

=/\= Tho'var your status please? =/\= asked lieutenant Jackson. 

"I just discovered there are two shuttles missing in main shuttle bay. Without access to the shuttle bay logs, can't say if it is normal or not. Until the lockout is dropped, I can't do much. I also discovered earlier that the Tesla shields emitters has been damaged. Can't be repaired from inside and without it, I estimate there would be a lost of shield strength of about 39% and of an increase in energy consumption of about 28%. Other than that, everything seems physically alright."

(Reply Tom)

"I find surprising that they only damaged the shields and nothing else. They could have done much more. I really can't figure out the motives or strategies involved. We are still in the dark." 

(Reply Tom)
(Posted by Nick)

-----

(USS Tesla - Sickbay - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 1 - 1349)

Ailyn opened her eyes, she was in the Tesla sickbay, right next to Lt. Jackson.
Looking around if something changed while she wasn't there, she felt the temperature
wasn't as cold as it originaly was the first time she was around. Finally, she
wouldn't be freezing while doing her duties.

Tweaking her nose a bit for a second, she was sure she had no sense of smell at the moment. Probably a counterindications from the shot she gave herself before the trip, feeling a bit weak, she got herself something to stay more focused. Her pupils were dilated of the extra adrenaline she was getting. Helped heaps because she could not feel any kind of fear of the unknown as well. Right example of the time when being a doctor was very handy.

Perhaps this was the shot, but she felt the whole atmosphere was different. As if it was a different ship. Compared, the first time she was around, it really felt like a ghost ship.

Tom Jackson was talking through his combadge with Tho'var, while Ailyn spooked around the sickbay, heading right into the room were cryobed was. Moving the tips of her two fingers over it, she remembered how the first time around, she felt as it if called her to release the man inside.

Tom Jackson broke the silence, turning towards Ailyn.

"Doctor, is it me or do you sense a different atmosphere?"

Ailyn turned towards Jackson, moving her hand on her chin as if she was thinking.

"I.. I definitely do. Doesn't feel like the same ship, doesn't it?" asked Ailyn

(Reply: Jackson)

"Well, I definitely find it.. fascinating that a single betazoid could make us all feel that way himself." said Ailyn, with a confused look on her face.

Something wasn't adding up. Taking a glance over her shoulders at the window, appearing as if she was watching the stars, Ailyn actually used this moment to think things through once again. She was missing something, but she couldn't quite place it. She could almost bring back the moments in her head and place them as puzzle pieces, but she missed the bulk of them to form an image.

(Reply: Jackson)
(Posted by: Lani)

-----

(Uss Tesla – Sick Bay Lt. Tom Jackson 2O/COPS – Day 1 1354)

Tom and dr. Anderson materialized in Sickbay. The mood seemed different to
Jackson. He asked Dr. Anderson to se if she noticed the difference or it
was just him,

She agreed with Tom that things seemed well… different. That helped Tom too
know someone else felt the change.

“Dr. Anderson – you do not know how good that is to hear. I wondered if it
was just me” Tom said.

(reply: Doc)

They had not uncovered anything in Sick Bay and were awaiting Tho’var’s
arrival. Things did not simple to be adding up. Puzzles and mysteries
troubled Tom.

If Tho’var’s report revealed nothing – the three of them were heading to
the bridge and see how Matrix and Maddox were doing.

(reply: None)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Tesla – Sickbay – Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO – Day 1 – 1359)

In all truth, the USS Tesla finally felt like a normal vessel. Nothing wrong with a little 
bit of fear to keep you on your edge, but having a constant bad feeling is something else. 

It doesn't keep you at the edge, it plainly makes you crazy.

Ailyn knew that very well. She knew that people had to have a safe zone, somewhere to crawl 
back when they felt under siege by something that catches them off guard in their lives. In 
Ailyn's case, that safe zone was in her head.

She would disconnect and connect with her surroundings many times a day, she was so good at 
it, no one would really notice. She got in the hang of automatic answers and some level of 
social engineering so that she's at the point where she can talk with someone and yet be 
somewhere completely different in her thoughts.

This didn't come without a price, of course. Ailyn felt hard to concentrate on one thing and 
keep up the concentration needed lots of willpower. But, at the end of the day, she didn't 
find it hard to keep up with her work. 

Quite the contrary, she needed it to keep her mind  busy, else it would start calculating and 
working out the neverending details.

Thinking about the Tesla and what happened here, for a fraction of the second imagining the 
original crew - could they be thought as a family? Perhaps ending in the cryobed as the only 
living member of the crew of an derelict vessel wasn't so bad.

She entertained the notion of being lost - or maybe missing in action. Would her mother 
really miss her? And then again, Ailyn had no other family to miss her. No lover to cry for 
her, no husband to search endlessly for her and no children to remember her.

She could have had it at one point or another in her life, but she would always screw it up. 
The fact she could never admit to herself was that she did it intentionaly. Instead, this 
would only make her even more dissapointed with those aspects and to dedicate that part of 
her life to her work as well.

Taking a long look at Mr Jackson's combadge, she reminded herself that Starfleet indeed 
provided everything she needed. And then some. Making an accomplished smile, she shifted the 
weight of herself on her right leg while pulling her left behind, graciously, putting her 
hands behind as well, listening to the Lieutenant standing in front of her.

"Dr. Anderson - you do not know how good that is to hear. I wondered if it was just me."

Of course, Jackson meant the feeling pretty much everyone stated they felt on the ship the 
first time around. A direct descendant of the civil war general Jackson, Tom was a military 
type. Hard but fair, with a temper at times. It was all in the file, and Ailyn read it well. 

But the reason she thought about it, was because she felt relieved. If a man as Tom could 
wonder about it and feel better he wasn't alone, it was alright for her to feel the same. 

This also meant she wasn't crazy, and that meant alot to her.

"I wondered the same thing, sir.", looking around herself, Ailyn continued "This looks like 
a good ship. What I'd love to find out is where has she been, and what happened to her 
crew." Ailyn explained to Jackson.

It seemed as if Jackson took a few glances at the sickbay trying to find something. He 
looked puzzled. Ailyn took a look at his eyes, something was troubling him.
Whatever he was looking for, however, didn't seem to be in sickbay, as he found nothing.

Ailyn eyed the sickbay before, right after she entered it, and found nothing of sorts to 
help with the investigation. She did found an aminoacid resequencer on a secluded tray in 
the room with the cryobed in, but she felt it wasn't something to bring in. Although she 
could find a use of such device herself as well. Not really a Federation standard issue, 
Ailyn wasn't even sure if it was still allowed in practice. It was a simple medical device, 
of the older origin, the modern medbeds with their integrated systems could do same and 
more, but the device was small and portable.

She propped herself up the wall, with one leg over the other, still looking at Jackson.
He was still waiting for Tho'var's report so he could decide what to do next. Perhaps he had 
enough of the place. Perhaps he, too, paused his look upon the blood still on the floor 
where Sanok was beaten fiercefully and where Ailyn herself crashed into the glass. 
Or perhaps it was the silence. 

Whatever it was, Andersen was also ready to leave the place.

Supporting herself with her hands on the wall, she took a long look at the cryopod. What 
makes a man filled with such anger? What did he have to live through?

Ailyn knew about anger, she felt it early on and neglected it until it started boiling deep  
and she had to do something. She tried hard to conceal from everyone she was really helping 
herself with stims since her high school years. And although she was managing and having the 
control, it didn't seem Torell's anger was of the same kind. 

Perhaps, in a sense, they weren't as different. It's something to ponder on, if she would 
ever loose her control, how would she react, and would it be the same? 

She took a long deep breath then breathed out, trying not to think about it anymore. It was making 
her nervous. She was sure that isn't the only thing they would find and that it was just a matter of
time until the picture become clearer.

(Reply: Jackson iyw)
(Posted by: Lani)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1, 1400)

Ben had returned to the bridge after being brought up to speed by Rixx, for now it was a waiting game for Sanok and there was nothing he could do to speed the matter up. Tom had returned to the Tesla to help with the lock out, they had to access the ships computers to find any and all information relating to the missing crew and the events that caused the ship to be abandoned and Torell being placed in stasis. He didn't like the situation and the sooner they figured it out the better.

"Soma to Jackson." He said over the com. "What's your status?"

(reply Jackson)

Ben listened as Tom outline what was required.

"Have Maddox and Matrix proceed when ready." Ben replied.

(reply Jackson)

He opened another channel.

"Soma to Signos." He said. "Matrix and Maddox are about to break the lockout. Stay on your toes, we don't know what may happen once the lockout is broken. There may be booby traps or any such counter measures in place."

(reply Signos)

"I want you to do a sweep of the ship once the lockout is broken, if you need additional personnel now is the time to request it."

(reply Signos)

After he finished speaking with Signos he again opened another channel.

"Soma to Kevras." He said. "The lockout sill be broken soon, monitor the ships systems for signs of sabotage."

(reply Kevras)

"Keep an eye on the engines, shut them down at the first sign of trouble." Ben stated. "If things go south I don't want any of you trapped over there if the ship should be set to explode."

(reply Kevras)

(reply as above)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Tesla, Main Shuttlebay, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1403)

Tho'var was examining the remaining shuttles to try to detect any clue on the reason there were two missing when he was contacted by his superior. 

=/\= Soma to Kevras =/\= the captain said.  =/\= The lockout sill be broken soon, monitor the ships systems for signs of sabotage. =/\= 

"Yes sir." said Tho'var without question. 

=/\= Keep an eye on the engines, shut them down at the first sign of trouble. =/\= the captain stated. =/\= If things go south I don't want any of you trapped over there if the ship should be set to explode.=/\=

Tho'var could feel the captain's cautiousness. The actual condition of the USS Tesla ship and crew was source of a huge mystery. What really happened here? Also, taking into account the way the Tesla engineer acted, and the presence Tho'var felt around him, caution was indeed the word. 

"Sir, I understand and share your concern. I will be closely monitoring them."

(Reply Soma, iyw)

Tho'var thought for a second to inform the captain about this curious mental presence. But if he was wrong.... maybe it was still too soon. He needed to be more what was it source. 

As the communication ended, Tho'var headed to main engineering.....

(Posted by Nick)

-----

(USS Tesla –Sickbay – LT. Tom Jackson 2O/COPS – Day 1 –1404)

While waiting for additional reports, Tom and the doctor engaged in some
chit chat.

"While we're waiting for an update, what are your impressions of the Rose
and her crew?" Tom inquired.

(Reply: Doc)

"I've been a part of the crew for a few years. We are a great team Doctor"
Ton added.

(Reply: Doc)

Tom looked off into the distance.

" Our twins were born on the Rose" Tom said.

(Reply: Doc)
(Posted by: Bill W.)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1 , 1405)

=/\=Yes sir.=/\= said Tho'var without question. 

Ben then told the ACEO to keep an eye on the engines just in case.

=/\=Sir, I understand and share
 your concern. I will be closely monitoring them.=/\=

"Thank you Mr. Kevras." Ben replied. "I prefer to err on the side of caution."

After he finished speaking with Kevras he turned his attention back to the reports and the information he had on the Tesla and her current mission. Nothing suggested trouble but somehow trouble had found the vessel. The situation was less than ideal and Ben found it troubling, so far three members of his crew had been injured and Sanok was still on a biobed in sickbay. What had happened, why had it happened? He wanted answers to those questions and a few more.

(reply none)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Tesla - Sickbay - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 1 - 1407)

It didn't really seem Jackson was satisfied with the fact the duo 
didn't find anything of note in the sickbay. Ailyn almost chuckled, he 
definitely seemed like a workaholic.

She had a lot to learn about the crew of the USS Rosenante. Tom, like 
many others onboard, really appeared to be great hard working officer.

It would seem he took the chance to talk with Ailyn while they were 
waiting for an much-needed update on the current situation with the 
lockout. Ailyn felt it, and she quietly sat down on the chair. 

It was a movable chair, currently being in front of the desk in the 
sickbay, very comfortable, it was similar to the one she had at Rose, 
but this one was smaller.

She turned it towards Jackson so he can have a better look of her while 
they were talking. 

"While we're waiting for an update, what are your impressions of the 
Rose and her crew?" asked Tom.

Ailyn couldn't help but to raise her eyebrow. A question she did not 
really expect. Still, she was sure Jackson meant it in a good way. And 
really, so far, Ailyn enjoyed the crew of the Rose.

"Rose is a beautiful ship, no doubt. When I first got the report I will 
be serving aboard the Rose, I really expected a lot smaller ship." 
pausing, she moved the chair a bit to the left and then put her left 
hand to support her head while she rested it on the chair handle.

"With a first look back in the shuttle, she looked breathtaking." said 
Ailyn with a healthy dose of admiration in her voice. She could see she 
brought a kind smile to Tom's face.

"It's a really great ship, and a pleasant home away from home."

Taking a short pause, she continued.

"The crew have been nothing but great to me personally. I think we work 
out together really good." explained Ailyn.

"I've been a part of the crew for a few years. We are a great team 
Doctor." added Tom.

Ailyn nodded her head in agreeance with Lieutenant Jackson. For an 
limited time on board the Rose, she already saw first hand that indeed 
crew make up a great team, and despite some differences, tick together 
really good.

Making a smile, she added "The crew of Rosenante are like a family."

Standing up, she corrected her uniform. Jackson stood infront, looking 
off into the distance, visibly touched by the words.

"Our twins were born on the Rose." he said.

Ailyn came over to Tom and gently patted him on the shoulders. She knew 
it wouldn't be easy having to bring their twins into the world on a 
starship, and that it couldn't be anything but hard being a good father 
an a great starfleet officer at the same time.

But somehow Tom was managing. Ailyn admired that. She had a blink of a thought in her head, another reason why Tom made such a great officer. He not only fought for his crew, his friends, but also for his family.

"They will make fine Starfleet officers one day themselves." added Ailyn with encouraging voice. 

If they will be anything like Tom, they could be nothing less but great officers. She didn't know if getting them into Starfleet was his plan, but she thought for a second, and finally she knew, that was what she would do if she ever had any of her own.

(Reply: Jackson)
(Posted by: Lani)

-----

(USS Tesla - Computer Core - Science Officer - Ensign (JG) Andrew Maddox - 1530)

Andrew walked through the doors of the cavernous room that housed the
computer core.  He holstered his tricorder and now the only things he had in
his hands were the 36 chips that he was assigned to obtain.  He knew that
within a few minutes Commander Matrix would be walking into the same area
with his 36 chips in tow.  Maddox decided to pass the time by preparing the
main core.  The main core had six stations equally spaced around the 4 meter
diameter cylinder core. Each terminal had a column of panels between them
starting on the deck and reaching the entire height of the core.  Andrew
placed the chips in neat stacks of approximately six high.   He opened his
engineering kit and arranged it for easier use.  Then he proceeded to start
taking off the panels.

~Bio-neural gel packs?~ Suddenly Andrew wished he would have studied more
biology.  While not his strong sciences, he was confident he would get by.
He thought back and remembered standard procedures from his damage control
training at the academy.  He started going through the procedures step by
step.  

(Reply Lt Cmdr Matrix)

"Oh, yes sir. Just thought I'd get a jump on the core.  I'm running
diagnostics on all the bio-neural gel packs.  Then we have to find which one
of them has the program so we can try to shut it down." He answered.

(Reply Lt Cmdr Matrix)

"Well I have some algorithm busting programs, a few other tricks they taught
me in the Daystrom Institute.  If that proves un-able to do it in a certain
amount of time though, I have a more drastic method, but it's a little
riskier." He said.

(Reply Lt Cmdr Matrix)

"Well it involves me directly interfacing with the computer to shut down the
program.  The risk to my mind is minimal. I calculate that the worst it
would be able to do is shut down my motor functions and possibly kick me out
of the system. Nothing a manual reset wouldn't be able to fix." He
explained.

(Reply Lt Cmdr Matrix)

"You are right sir, there is a possibility, but the Borg were unable to
break my programming, and they are far more sophisticated than this one
program, so it is a risk I am willing to take." Maddox admitted. "The
decision I leave up to you, sir."

(Reply Lt Cmdr Matrix)
(Posted by Todd)

-----

(Rosenante, Sickbay, FO/CSec Lieutenant Commander Sanok, Day 1, 1531)

When the attack came, Sanok was able to block it for a few seconds.  After that, his mind had been overwhelmed by such power and force, that his mental shields were shredded, like tissue paper in a strong wind.  It didn't help that he was years behind in the mental disciplines typical to Vulcans, as he had initially chosen to live with his emotions.

When the telepathic mind of Lieutenant Torell had launched its attack against him, it had been done with hatred.  It was as though Torell's purpose in life was to destroy him. Sanok did not understand why, at first, and had tried with all that was in him to mentally speak with Torell, but to no avail.  In the time their minds were together, Sanok could see shapes and shadowy forms behind Torell, around Torell, moving through him.

The shadows had penetrated Sanok's mind, like a nightmare dream, like dancing apparitions vying for control.  It took all his strength and resources to fight them, to push them away....

With a gasp, Sanok sat up.  Looking at the first person he saw, he spoke.

"I need to see the captain."

"PO Tesha to Captain Soma.  Lieutenant Commander Sanok is awake and is asking to see you."

(reply Soma, any in sickbay)
(posted by Bob B.)

-----

(USS Rosenante, Bridge, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1, 1533)

Ben was sitting in the center seat reviewing the reports from the Tesla, they were getting close to breaking the lockout and he hoped that would yield some much needed answers. Sanok hadn't come to yet, the brig hadn't reported any trouble from their guest but he still had an uneasy feeling. After leaving the brig he thought it was just the was Torell had been staring at him but now with the time that had passed  he couldn't explain it.  Glancing at the view screen he saw the Tesla drifting against the stars, what had happened aboard that ship? Where had the crew gone, why had they abandoned the ship? He didn't like having so many unanswered questions. The com brought in out of his pondering.

=/\=PO Tesha to Captain Soma.  Lieutenant Commander Sanok is awake and is asking to see you.=/\=

"On my way." Ben replied rising from the center seat and making his way to the lift.

Finally, a break. Now he might get an answer or two, provided Sanok was able to remember what happened to him. He stepped in the lift and stated his destination as the doors closed.

Ben entered sickbay and proceeded directly to Sanok's bed, it was good to see his friend with his eyes open and alert once again. 

"What happened Sanok?" Ben inquired. "Why did Torell attack you, Anderson and Jackson?"

He didn't waste anytime on pleasantries, Sanok would know he was glad to have his friend and FO back from the brink.

(reply Sanok)
(posted by Milo Young)

-----

(USS Tesla -- Computer Core -- Chief Engineering Officer -- LCDR Steven Matrix -- 1534)

Matrix watched the Ensign disappear behind the doors of the computer core. His hands full of isolinear chips he wasn't far behind. Entering the computer core Matrix placed this stash of electronics on the nearest table adjoining to where the Ensign was arranging his gear.

"Getting a jump on procedures Ensign?" asked Matrix while watching the Ensign put the isolinear chips into some order.

"Oh, yes sir. Just thought I'd get a jump on the core.  I'm running diagnostics on all the bio-neural gel packs.  Then we have to find which one of them has the program so we can try to shut it down." He answered.

"Good thinking Ensign. Once the diagnostics are completed how do you propose to solve the encryption problem?" asked Matrix

"Well I have some algorithm busting programs, a few other tricks they taught me in the Daystrom Institute.  If that proves un-able to do it in a certain amount of time though, I have a more drastic method, but it's a little riskier." He said.

"Risky how Ensign?" replied Matrix.

"Well it involves me directly interfacing with the computer to shut down the program.  The risk to my mind is minimal. I calculate that the worst it would be able to do is shut down my motor functions and possibly kick me out of the system. Nothing a manual reset wouldn't be able to fix." He explained.

Matrix frowned at the idea,"I hope it doesn't come to that Ensign. Is there a possibility that you will become a casualty of this program we're trying to break?" continued Matrix.

"You are right sir, there is a possibility, but the Borg were unable to break my programming, and they are far more sophisticated than this one program, so it is a risk I am willing to take." Maddox admitted. "The decision I leave up to you, sir."

"I'd rather attempt less risky measures first. Get started on your plan A and lets see how things develop." said Matrix.

Matrix and Maddox started the detailed and risky work of isolating and busting the terminal programs. The isolinear chips were put into a logical and sequential order. Matrix waited for Maddox to prompt him for input and adjustments he could make at the terminal.

(Reply Maddox)
(Posted by Steve)

-----

(Rosenante, Sickbay, FO/CSec Lieutenant Commander Sanok, Day 1, 1536)

Sickbay personnel were fussing over Sanok, which was not agreeable to him.  He was being scanned and poked, and there was a rapid-fire string of questions about how he felt.  He understood why, of course, but he was fine.  It was a good thing when Ben entered sickbay and came to him.

"What happened, Sanok?" said Ben.  "Why did Torell attack you, Anderson, and Jackson?"

"Lieutenant Torell is not acting under his own devices," said Sanok.  "Someone, or something, I cannot say who or what, is controlling him."

Sanok paused as a nurse scanned him again.

"A powerful telepathic attack was launched against me.  It was filled with such extreme hatred and a desire for vengeance, that it overwhelmed my defensive barriers.  While unconscious, I could see within my mind, shadowy figures trying to control me.  Fortunately, I was able to overcome them.  There is nothing more I can add to that."

Sanok paused again.

"Was anyone else injured?  Was Lieutenant Torell apprehended?  Did the away team break the lock on the Tesla computer?"

It was clear Sanok wanted to return to duty as quickly as possible.

(reply Soma, any in sickbay)
(posted by Bob B.)

-----

(USS Tesla - Computer Core - Science Officer - Ensign(JG)Andrew Maddox - 1537)

 "I'd rather attempt less risky measures first. Get started on your plan A
and lets see how things develop." said Matrix.

 "I'm approximately 40% complete with the mapping of the computer core. I
predict I will find the program soon. I am also 80% done with the
diagnostic." Andrew reported, "the chips should be hand-wiped with a tachyon
emitter before we can re-install them, Once the core is rebooted without the
program active another chip would be chosen at random to take over any
functions the chips performed before they were removed."

 (Reply Matrix)

"I've found something." Maddox announced.

(Reply Matrix)

"The last 10% of the diagnostic proved interesting, but has also brought up
a complication.  Something has created a malfunction in three of the
neuro-gel packs.  At some point after the program asserted itself some
outside force made the three packs unviable." Andrew said.

(Reply Matrix)

"Unclear, sir.  Something has caused cell death, it could be viral, or
bacterial, an increase in radiation seems unlikely as does sabotage but, I
can't rule any of those out.  Sick bay would be better equipped to determine
the cause of the destruction of the cells.  Once the program is shut down I
should be able to replace them with three new packs from storage and
re-install the required software from secured back up." Maddox reported.

(Reply Matrix)

"After it's broken, Star Fleet standard is to have the core up in running in
an hour, but with the time you have after the code is broken, you won't have
an hour so give me fifteen after it's broken and I'll have it up for you." 

(Reply Matrix)
(Posted by Todd)

-----

(USS Tesla -- Computer Core -- CEO -- LCDR Steven Matrix -- 1538)

"I'd rather attempt less risky measures first. Get started on your plan A and lets see how things develop." said Matrix.

"I'm approximately 40% complete with the mapping of the computer core. I predict I will find the program soon. I am also 80% done with the diagnostic." Andrew reported, "the chips should be hand-wiped with a tachyon emitter before we can re-install them, Once the core is rebooted without the program active another chip would be chosen at random to take over any functions the chips performed before they were removed."

"Good progress in a short time. I'll handle the tachyon cleaning and hand them back to you or insert them when you're ready." replied Matrix.

"I've found something." Maddox announced.

"What is it?" asked Matrix.

"The last 10% of the diagnostic proved interesting, but has also brought up a complication.  Something has created a malfunction in three of the neuro-gel packs.  At some point after the program asserted itself some outside force made the three packs unusable." Andrew said.

Matrix was slightly worried at this point, "Can we isolate this from spreading to the other packs?" asked Matrix.

"Unclear, sir. Something has caused cell death, it could be viral, or bacterial, an increase in radiation seems unlikely as does sabotage but, I can't rule any of those out.  Sick bay would be better equipped to determine the cause of the destruction of the cells.  Once the program is shut down I should be able to replace them with three new packs from storage and re-install the required software from secured back up." Maddox reported.

Matrix unsheathed his tricorder and began to take readings. "I'll forward these readings to medical as they happen. Perhaps medical can figure this out as we proceed with the decryption sequence. I'll get engineering to beam over replacements." replied Matrix.

"After it's broken, Star Fleet standard is to have the core up in running in an hour, but with the time you have after the code is broken, you won't have an hour so give me fifteen after it's broken and I'll have it up for you."

"Excellent Ensign. I'll contact the other departments. Keep working and let me know when you need another gel pack." replied Matrix.

Matrixmonitored the tricorder scans to medical and summoned engineering to beamover a number of gel-packswhile Maddox continued to work.

=^=Matrix to sickbay...I'm sending over tricorder readings of some sort of contamination of these neuro-gel packs abord the Tesla. See if you can determine what's caused them to fail. It may help usin our decryption efforts. Matrix out.=^=

(Reply anyone in sickbay/medical)

A few moments later Lt. Peter Cohen beamed over a number of gel packs and Matrix placed them in close proximity to Maddox. Ready when needed.

(Reply Maddox, Sickbay, any)
(Posted by Steve)

-----

(Rosenante, Sickbay, CO, Captain Ben Soma, Day 1, 1538)

"Lieutenant Torell is not acting under his own devices," said 
Sanok.  "Someone, or something, I cannot say who or what, is controlling
 him."

Sanok paused as a nurse scanned him again.

"A powerful telepathic attack was launched against me.  It was filled with 
such extreme hatred and a desire for vengeance, that it overwhelmed my 
defensive barriers.  While unconscious, I could see within my mind, 
shadowy figures trying to control me.  Fortunately, I was able to 
overcome them.  There is nothing more I can add to that."

Torell was being controlled, this wasn't good news but at least the officer wasn't acting the way he was by choice. The hatred and desire for vengeance wasn't what Ben wanted to hear but that gave him something more than he had five minutes ago. All they had to do now was figure out who or what was doing this and try to reason with them. 

"Was anyone else injured?  Was Lieutenant Torell apprehended?  Did the away team break the lock on the Tesla computer?"

Ben knew Sanok was eager to return to his duties, Vulcan's didn't like lying about wasting time.

"Torell also attacked Dr. Anderson and Lieutenant Jackson, neither were seriously injured. Ensign Signos was able to apprehend Torell while he was assaulting Lieutenant Jackson, he's now in our brig under observation. I spoke with him briefly but he wasn't in the mood to speak, I sensed his desire to attack me. Matrix and Maddox are attempting to break the lockout now." Ben said. "I'll have Dr. Rixx make sure your fit to return to your duties but I want you to wear a cortical monitor, if this entity can take over telepaths you may be our only chance for an early warning system." 

(reply Sanok)

"We'll get to the bottom of this sooner or later." Ben said. "I want to know why someone decided to commandeer a Starfleet  officer and propel him to attack members of my crew."

(reply Sanok)

Ben turned to catch Rixx's attention.

"Doctor is Commander Sanok fit to resume his duties?"

(reply Rixx)

"I'd like him to be fitted with a cortical monitor, it may give us a heads up for trouble." Ben stated. "I'd like to do the same with our guest but I'm reluctant to provide him with another punching bag."

(reply Rixx, Sanok)
(posted by Milo Young)