USS Rosenante Compile Through the Looking Glass 7 ==================== Through the Looking Glass Day 1 Stardate: 2414.06.11 ==================== (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lieutenant Commander Sanok, Day 1, 1910) Kevras was reluctant to enter the ventilation duct, because he had not wanted to leave Sanok alone in case their captors came for them. Sanok had assured the engineer that he would be able to handle the situation. It was also better if one of them could have a chance to escape. After Kevras was in the duct and moving away, Sanok put the screen back in its place. He stood on his cot and listened until he could no longer hear the sounds of movement. Hopefully, Kevras would find something that would aid them. There was basically nothing to do other than wait, so Sanok moved his cot back to its original position in the middle of the room and sat down. Whoever built this station was clearly on a tech level more advanced than Starfleet. The ability to open and maintain a wormhole. The ability to control people through the wormhole. A room that surely had a door, with no seams in the walls marking its location. Who knew what else? Sanok knew Ben was sending a rescue mission, but would they even have a chance? When Sanok heard sounds coming from the ventilation duct, he got up and moved his cot back to the corner. Kevras was back. "I'm back. Is it safe?" said Kevras. "Yes," said Sanok as he removed the screen. He moved off the cot so Kevras could exit the duct. "I found nothing interesting for the moment," said Kevras. "I got trapped in one of the other room, but managed to climb back, but I lost a lot of time. Have the guards come yet?" "No, they have not," said Sanok. "I must admit, that I am at a loss as to why it is taking so long for them to decide what to do with us. They abducted us specifically for a reason." When the screen was back covering the duct, and Sanok's cot was back next to Kevras', they both sat down. Sanok was going to ask for a report on what exactly Kevras had found, but a clicking sound from one of the walls got their attention. A seam appeared in the metal wall. There was another click, and the part inside the seam began to slide aside, bright light from the corridor beyond, shining into the room. "It would seem our captors have come for us," said Sanok. (reply Kevras) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Shuttle Ticonderoga – Lt tom Jackson 2O/COPS Day 1 1911) Tom’s shuttle lifted smoothly ad exited the Rosenante. The shuttle occupants were busy checking their gear or lost in there personal thoughts Jackson used the reverse view to verify that Steve’s shuttle was following at a safe distance or so tom hoped. . Tom paused the shuttle and turned to his passengers saying “I think this might be bumpy – seat and belt yourselves – secure all loose items”. (Reply: Any ion shuttle) Jackson thumbed open a channel to Steve Matrix and said “We’re entering the wormhole Steve. Wait thirty seconds and then follow us in ok?” (reply: Matrix) Tom asked Heath Gomez “to verify that they were ready to proceed”. (Reply: Gomez) Tom slowly maneuvered the Ticonderoga into the worm hole – as they got closer – the turbulence shook the sleek craft like a giant fist had grabbed them and was shaking them in all three axis. Heath Gomez worked on the shields to protect them. The whirl of colors and sights was mesmerizing. As quick as the turbulent entry had started it was over. Tom stopped their forward movement and was keeping the shuttle . While they wait for their sister shuttle, Tom asked his passengers “Everyone all right?”. (Reply: Those in the Ticonderoga) (Posted by: Bill W. ) ----- (USS Rosenante Shuttle Bay 1 LCDR Steven Matrix Day 1 1912) Matrix entered the second shuttle and assumed the command seat and started the power up sequence. "Commander Matrix assume the six o'clock high position - keep a judicious distance from us in case of any firings on us- understood?" ordered Jackson =^=Understood Tom.taking off shortly. =^=. "I need a co-pilot" replied Matrix. "Initiate impulse sequence. Everyone aboard?" said Matrix (Reply any) "Commencing departure. Everyone get settled in." ordered Matrix (Reply Jackson, any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (USS Ticonderoga – Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO – Day 1 – 1913) When the haunty trip was over, the shuttle shooked one last time to come to a full stop. Andersen slowly opened her eyes, and moved one of her hands from her ears. It really seemed as it all stopped. “Everyone all right?” asked Jackson “Mmm, what a bumpy ride has it been.” said Andersen, trying to quickly act like nothing’s happened. She was the last one in the shuttle and it seemed no one glimpsed her while they were traveling through the wormhole. Tom parked the shuttle at the exit of the wormhole, waiting for their sister shuttle to come through. When that happened, the shuttle was moving again and the station was growing with shuttle’s proximitiy to it. “Raising shields and activating scanners.” Gomez said to Jackson. Andersen ran her hand over her hair, trying not to imagine all the bad things that could happen to them right now. The station looked nothing like what she’d imagine. Monolithic old grey colored, the vertical superstructure seemed to be connected to the horizontal ring-like smooth matte surface structure. At the bottom of the superstructure, there was something that appeared to be a large diameter dish-like structure. Ailyn made a guess this might be the origin of the wormhole. She didn’t want to think if it was the actual weapon, with that size, it wasn’t an inviting possibility. Still despite the color, the station seemed like it was made by a very high technology species, defying many years, possibly even hundreds or more, space around it, and who knows what kind of forgotten wars before. >From one of the superstructure’s upper pylons, a small opening appeared. A bright-like torpedo-sized object seemed ejected in high velocity. It was flying towards them. It moved as if it was sentient, heavily curving left and right to top to bottom, as if it expected a weapons fire and dodging it. Eventually it came close to the shuttles. It came to a full stop some kilometre infront of the shuttles. Activating what seemed to be a bright red light, focused towards Ticonderoga at first, the inside of the shuttle filled with high-frequency screech-like sound. While it wasn’t terribly loud, Andersen was pretty sure all heard it. Her best guess was they were being scanned. They were still at a considerable distance between the station, so it made sense the station would send a probe to see what they’re dealing with. The scan didn’t last for very long – the probe moved closer to the second shuttle to do the same. After only several moment, the probe did a gracefuly quick and swift turn 180 degrees to it’s aft and continued with a full speed towards the station. The aft burners of the probe left quite a pretty trail of fire after them. The only logical conclusion right now was the station wasn’t currently in range for weapons fire. After all, now whatever species they were, had the data about the runabouts as well – obviously not considered more then an insect compared to the size of the station – and an unknown kind of technology the species had on it. Continuing their voyage forward, as the station continued growing in their viewscreen as well, Andersen could notice small strips on the surfaces that were open. This really seemed like weapon arrays of some kind. Would they fly into their very own doom? Seemingly overwhelmed with the situation, Ailyn gulped, wide-eyed looking at the distance meter number being reduce by the seconds. (Reply: Gomez) It seemed Gomez was unsuccesful with the scanning of the station, and atleast for now, they virtually knew nothing about it, it’s threat potential or any kind of other tactical data. Andersen cluthed the side of her head. A silent approach didn’t seem like an option anymore, now that they’re scanned. She looked frantically at the crew of the Ticonderoga. Gomez was busy retrying to scan the station, Jackson was busy with piloting – and Maddox seemed to be in his thoughts. Perhaps he had an idea of some kind – maybe more scientific approach was in order in this situation. The only idea that burst through her mind right now was a one she tried at the academy, to use runabouts small deflector dish’s focal array to send a burst of magneton energy through it, towards the station’s main sensor array, in an attempt to foul it into thinking the runabouts were destroyed. Of course this actually meant the station had to start firing on them, but that seemed more and more like a likely scenario. (Reply: Maddox) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (USS Rosenante Shuttle Bay 1 - LCDR Steven Matrix Day 1 1914) "Everyone onboard. Starting launch sequence. Anyone care to copilot this shuttle with me?" asked Matrix. "Shuttle Cousteau requesting permission to launch." =^= Shuttle Cousteau you are cleared for launch. Good luck Commander.=^= The Cousteau departed the shuttle bay. Matrix punched up impulse engines and caught up with the Ticonderoga. "Commander Matrix assume the six o'clock high position - keep a judicious distance from us in case of any firings on us- understood?" Matrix smiled, =^= Understood Tom.backing off and taking the six. We'll follow you in.=^= (Reply Jackson) "Okay folks hang on this might be a bumpy ride. Any questions?" asked Matrix (Reply any in the second shuttle Cousteau) (Posted by Steve) ----- (USS Rosenante – CO- Captain Ben Soma – Day 1 – 1915) Ben watched as both shuttles entered the wormhole, he had wanted to be on one of them. Remaining behind while others went into the unknown went against the grain. He had been a Sec/Tac officer and it was something that couldn't be forgotten or ignored. Some where on the other side of that singularity his friend and First Officer, Assistant Chief Engineer and the crew of the Tesla were being held against their will. He wanted to be there to help find them, try and reason with their captors and if need be fight for their freedom or die in the attempt. It was a feeling he knew he would never be able to put aside, one of the burdens of command. Did every Captain feel this way? He had faith in those who had gone, each officer aboard those shuttles were highly capable. He had personally trained each of the SO's so he knew they would be ready for whatever they would face over there. Tom Jackson was a seasoned veteran with a lot of experience under his belt, he knew how to handle himself as did Matrix. Steve Matrix was the best engineer Ben had known, any technical problem they encountered Matrix could overcome it. Maddox would be able to figure out anything scientific that they may find, how to create an artificial wormhole could be very beneficial in the future. Anderson was relatively new to the crew but Ben had a feeling she could hold her own and he was glad she had gone should anyone be injured. He turned his attention back to the viewscreen as Matrix's shuttle entered the wormhole behind and above Tom's, it was a tactic that Ben was familiar with and had used in training simulations at the academy. Should they encounter trouble both shuttles could fire at the same time without having to maneuver away from each other. It was a good approach and he wasn't surprised that Tom had chosen it. Now he had to play a waiting game, he couldn't do anything to help anyone on the other side. Taking the Rose into the wormhole was too risky, it was up to the shuttles to find their people now. Once they exited the wormhole he would be blind, they hadn't found anyway to scan through the wormhole. Sending another team to the Tesla was also too risky at the moment, they could still find some answers over there given some time but for now that would have to wait. Waiting wasn't something he did well. (reply any) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (USS Ticonderoga – Ensign Heath Gomez – Day 1 – 1916) Heath continued with his scans, after several attempts he couldn't get a readings on the interior of the station which meant he was unable to locate the missing members of the Rosenantes crew or the crew of the Tesla. He was however able to get some detailed scans of the exterior, those he found most troubling. The station was more heavily armed than the Rose, the fact that it's shields were down was puzzling. "Lieutenant," Heath began. "I'm unable to get any readings from the stations interior. The exterior is another story, that station has some serious armaments and I seriously hope we don't find out how effective they are." (reply any present) "Their shields are currently down and I haven't detected any energy buildups on any of the weapons arrays." Heath continued. "Looks like they don't consider us a threat." Heath hoped they hadn't perceived them as a threat. They had destroyed the probe but that was unmanned, maybe they wouldn't fire on a couple of occupied shuttles. (reply any present) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Lt. Tom Jackson 2O/COPS Day 1 1917) Tom listened intently to Heath's report . The firepower of the alien station was enough to cause Tom's brow to sweat. He looked at each member of the shuttle. "Ok, I need options now " Jackson stated, (Reply: any) Tom looked at the space station closely. It amazed him there was no reaction from the occupants of the station. Tom listened to all the participants. He had yet to hear from the ambassador. " Ambassador, any suggestions?" Tom asked. (Reply: Ambassador) (Posted by: Bill W.) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 1 - 1918) After the probe scanned them and retreated back to the station, the occupants of the Ticonderoga continued with their jobs. Gomez seemed to continue with his scans. "I'm unable to get any readings from the stations interior. The exterior is another story, that station has some serious armaments and I seriously hope we don't find out how effective they are." explained Gomez. Turning towards the Ensign, Andersen raised her eyebrow. It seemed the runabout was in their firing range, but then they weren't under any fire so far. Something didn't seem right... or perhaps they were just lucky. "Are they charging their weapons? They obviously know that we're here..." Ailyn always had a knack for stating the obvious, even when no one would want to hear it. "Their shields are currently down and I haven't detected any energy buildups on any of the weapons arrays. Looks like they don't consider us a threat." Ailyn pulled her lucky dabo chip from inside of her gloves, moving it through her two fingers back and forth. ~This does not many any sense. What would you do, if you had an... well any possible advantage you could have against an enemy you knew were coming for their people?~ Andersen asked herself. Didn't make much sense. "Ok, I need options now" stated Jackson. For a short while, there was silence inside Ticonderoga. Andersen did not like feeling so powerless. Her life, her possible future hanging by a thread controlled by an unknown race... someone she didn't even knew. Yet, here she was and there wasn't much she could do about it. This is what she signed for. An adventure, something big, something out of control. Something to test her fears, to finally make her feel anything, out of her comfort zone to experience the life and every possible bad things that comes in pack with it. Still, putting her self to the other side, if she would be in this very same situation, she would of open fire on the runabouts. Perhaps there's bigger agenda then just a show of higher power to this race after all. Perhaps they should play by the rules set by the more powerful side, at least for now, and test out the territory with a small step. "Perhaps we should send through all frequencies the message that we're coming to check upon our two missing crew members." she stopped to get some air. "We could ask for a permission to send a medic overboard to check the current health of our two officers. It would provide both the general location of our crew members and possible diversion for others to also get onto the station." she explained. While Andersen was sure someone had a better solution then her own, staring at the barrel of a gun with nothing more then a stick to defend themselves, they were definitely at the heavy disadvantage here. She'd play it safe. "Perhaps we could still come to some mutual terms. In worst case scenario, we will at least have better idea of who we're dealing with and in what condition are our missing officers." she explained in a clinical cold tone. ~If only... we had a bigger ship to bargain with.~ she thought. (Reply: Any iyw) (Posted by: Lani) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1919 "I'm back. Is it safe" murmured Tho'var to Sanok (Reply Sanok) Okay, I'm going down. "I'm back. Is it safe?" said Kevras. "Yes," said Sanok as he removed the screen for him to come down. "I found nothing interesting for the moment. I got trapped in one of the other room, but managed to climb back. But I lost a lot of time." said Tho'var, then catching his breathe. "Have the guards come yet?" "No, they have not," said Sanok. "I must admit, that I am at a loss as to why it is taking so long for them to decide what to do with us. They abducted us specifically for a reason." Tho'var examined his uniform to make sure it was clean. He realized then how trivial it was considering the circumstances. It was simply an habit. As he heard sound, Tho'var examined where it came from. He could feel the breeze coming from the corner. Someone was coming. But surprisingly, he didn't feel anything. It was like there was no one out there. "It would seem our captors have come for us," said Sanok. "I don't feel their presence." Tho'var said. The silent instantly followed. A silent that was heavy and long. The fate of the USS Tesla, the strange behavior of the Tesla engineer, their kidnapping.... there wasn't any clue to who could be behind it. Now, both Sanok and Tho'var were about to know. (Reply Sanok, iyw) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lieutenant Commander Sanok, Day 1, 1920) "I don't feel their presence," said Kevras. "Interesting," said Sanok. The pieces were coming together. Perhaps they would now learn the full story. Four humanoid beings stepped into the room, two on each side of the door. They were short, each about 1.7 meters in height. Their skin was gray. Their eyes were dark. Their noses ended in a downward point. Their chins had a protrusion resembling a beard worn by ancient Egyptian pharaohs. On their heads, they were wearing caps, with flaps extending past their cheeks. Their small ears protruded sideways through holes in the caps. If they had hair, it was covered. They were wearing purple jumpsuits. Each was carrying a weapon. The four eyed Sanok and Kevras, two guards covering each of them. After several seconds, a fifth being entered. This one was taller by several inches. He was wearing a black robe and cap. He stopped behind the guards, careful to stay out of reach of Sanok and Kevras. He extended his right hand, which had four fingers and an opposable thumb, palm upwards, a small device resting on it. Looking directly at Sanok, he spoke. After a delay of a few seconds, the device in his hands translated what he said. "You will come with us now." "Who are you and why have you brought us here?" said Sanok. The device in the being's hand translated what Sanok said. This was how they would communicate. "You will come with us now." "We are peaceful explorers and mean no harm. I am sure we c-" "You will come with us now or the other will die." The two guarding Kevras raised their weapons in a menacing motion. "You will come with us now." Sanok looked at Kevras. "I will go with them. You may wish to vent your frustrations over this." He moved towards the door. The leader left the room first, followed by the two guarding Sanok. The others followed behind Sanok. When they were in the corridor, the door slid shut, leaving Kevras alone. (reply Kevras) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1921) The four beings entered. Tho'var took a very long look at them. If he succeeded in communicating telepathically with his crew, giving them the most complete details on the specie would be key to the rescue mission. Because of what they they were wearing, Tho'var couldn't say about their physiology. Anyway, he had never been very good in Xenobiology. That was the main reason he chose engineering. One of the guard was just beside him. At that distance, Tho'var would normally be able to be very intimate with that people's thoughts. But for a reason he did not know, he felt absolutely nothing. "You will come with us now." said one of the guard. "Who are you and why have you brought us here?" said Sanok. "You will come with us now." the guard repeated. "We are peaceful explorers and mean no harm. I am sure we c-" "You will come with us now or the other will die." Tho'var had no interest in maintaining the conversation. As Sanok was already taking care of that part anyway, Tho'var rather decided to focus on gathering the physical information. From the analysis of the weapon they were carrying, it was very different from Starfleet design. Instead of having a single energy power charge, and a single capacitor, there were two green rods placed on each side of the rifle, and connected to the beam emitter. The configuration was nevertheless slightly similar to what made starfleet phaser capable of stunning. Perhaps they were using a different kind of 'stunning'. In all honesty, Tho'var wasn't in a hurry to find out. Apparently, the guards disagreed and were rather eager to try it....as they all pointed their weapon at him. Tho'var took another attentive look at the weapon to try to better understand it's mechanism. With such composure, Tho'var couldn't help himself but wonder what the others, especially Sanok, were thinking. Tho'var himself thought odd that his reaction when being threatened was to analyze the weapons they used. But, once you had faced the atrocity of the Federation Civil War first hand....fear was the first casualty. Your life had become worthless. Everything had been sacrificed, fear, pride, egoism, etc. All that was important was to stop those atrocities. Nothing else mattered. "You will come with us now." Sanok looked at Kevras. "I will go with them. You may wish to vent your frustrations over this." He moved towards the door. Tho'var gazed at Sanok. ::: I will find a way to escape for when you return. ::: said Tho'var through mind projection. (Reply Sanok, iyw) (Posted by Nick) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1922) Once the guard had left with Sanok, Tho'var had closed his eyes and focused. If he couldn't feel the guards, Sanok presence was very clear. He could easily follow him. At least, it gave him an idea where he was bringing him as well as giving him information on the base or ship configuration. Indeed, it was logical they would bring him in an interrogation or torture room. So at least, he could knew how far it was. Once Sanok had stopped to move, Tho'var climbed back up the vent duct. This time, he knew the ducts way better, and it took him half the time to move to where he was the last time. This time however, he moved aside the room he was caught in and continued in the duct in the hope of finally finding an exit. After several minutes, Tho'var stopped. He could still feel Sanok's presence. :::If you need me, just say so ::: said Tho'var through mind projection. However, considering how far he was, he wasn't sure if Sanok got his message. As he has no reply, he continued. (posted by Nick) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - 2O/COPS - Lt. Tom Jackson -Day 1 - 1923) Tom had asked for options. Lani and the Ambassador offered a couple. Tom spoke addressing Doctor Anderson and Ambassador Turner "Both ideas are excellent. And Ambassador please hail them and ask permission to visit with our missing officers I suggest you mention the Doctor's desire to check on our officers as well" (Reply Doc and Turner) Jackson always a believer in having a fall back plan spoke next to Matrix and Maddox " Steve, in case the Ambassador's plan isn't successful, get together a plan to board the station With as little fan fair as possible, I want Mr Gomez involved". (Reply: Gomez. Maddox and Matrix) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Science Officer - Ensign (JG) Andrew Maddox - 1924) For the majority of the beginning of the flight and through the wormhole Maddox had kept to himself. Once the runabout was through and he saw they were having some difficulties scanning the station, and he began to think on it. Well a number of variables could be blame, a new alloy would certainly take more time to analyze, that isn't even taking into consideration if the hull of the station was lined with a sensor reflecting material, or if a sensor jamming was in effect. ~Sensor Jamming.~ He thought. "Whatever is generating the wormhole is giving off substantial interference." Andrew announced to anyone who was listening. There was a slight pause as he gathered the appropriate information to elaborate. "As expected, we will have to get closer to conduct any kind of detailed scan." (Reply any) Andrew listened to Lt Jackson and the Ambassador as they started discussing speaking to the station, "Sir, Ambassador." Andrew tried to be as polite as possible for his interruption. "The interference will probably garble communications as well. I recommend approaching closer to overcome interference. Now might also be the time to have one vessel approach for communication and perhaps have the other wait closer to the beam to possibly avoid detection." (Reply Ambassador Turner, LT Jackson, any, room for more) "Steve, in case the Ambassador's plan isn't successful, get together a plan to board the station With as little fan-fair as possible, I want Mr. Gomez involved". "Commander Matrix I was thinking we can use the beam to our advantage. We put the shields on full on the shuttle that is not in contact, and have them skim the beam, perhaps the residual energy signature will hide the vessel from the station's scanners, if we keep it thrusters only we might pass as energy run-off." Andrew explained. (Reply Matrix, any) (Posted by Todd) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Chief Engineering Officer - LCDR Steven Matrix - 1925) "Commander Matrix I was thinking we can use the beam to our advantage. We put the shields on full on the shuttle that is not in contact, and have them skim the beam, perhaps the residual energy signature will hide the vessel from the station's scanners, if we keep it thrusters only we might pass as energy run-off." Andrew explained. "That might work, but we should match the frequency of the shield resonation with that of the beam. Otherwise it would be like trying to mix oil and water and we'd risk damaging the shuttle, not to mention detection. I can start making the preparations on the Cousteau." Replied Matrix. (Reply Maddox) "How do you wish to use Mr. Gomez in this situation?" continued Matrix. (Reply Maddox, Any) (Posted by Steve) ----- (Runabout Cousteau, Ambassador Joanne Turner, Day 1, 1926) Being an ambassador with over twenty years of experience, Jo was not the kind of person that was ever at a loss for words. However, after just a few minutes of being on the rescue mission, she had no words to describe it. Passing through the wormhole was amazing. The energy and vibrations hummed throughout her body. There was a musical affect in the air. The colors and streaks of light around them were breathtaking. Once the runabouts were out of the wormhole and they were facing the station, the seriousness of the situation became all too real. The lead runabout stopped in place, while the Cousteau held behind them in an overwatch position. Scans were conducted and a discussion on what to do began. "Something is coming from the station." It was Allen, who was sitting up front, next to Lieutenant Commander Matrix. Jo peered outside, trying to see what it was. "Scans indicate it's a probe," said Allen. "No weapons on board." Everyone watched as the probe, which was about the same size as a Starfleet probe, moved towards them in a zigzag pattern. It stopped in front of the Ticonderoga, scanned it, then moved to the Cousteau. Inside the runabout, there was a flash of red and a screeching sound. After a few moments, the probe left and headed back towards the station. "Just checking us out, Mister James?" said Jo. "Yes, ma'am. Though they could just as easily have fired on us." "Even though they've taken our people, they do seem to be as curious about us as we are about them," said Jo. A call came over the comm system. "Ambassador. Any suggestions?" "Yes, I do, Mister Jackson. I'd like to hail the station. There's a chance they're willing to talk to us." (reply Jackson, Matrix, any) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (USS Ticonderoga Lt. Tom Jackson 2O/COPS Day 1 1927) Tom listened as Matrix and Maddox is cussed an interesting idea. Tom made his decision and said "let's try it. We will try contacting the station - Ambassador that's your baby. Proceed once the commander s ready. (Rely: Ambassador, Maddox) ----- (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lieutenant Commander Sanok, Day 1, 1928) After being removed from the cell, the guards led Sanok down the corridor to a turbolift. Once inside, it moved downward, then to the right. Sanok counted the seconds it moved in each direction, so that he would be able to find his way back to Kevras, if he was able to escape. Stepping out of the lift, the guards led Sanok down another corridor, stopping in front of a door. It slid open and Sanok was shoved into a room. Inside was another of the taller beings wearing a robe and a cap. There was also a capped guard carrying a weapon, standing next to a chair. The chair resembled the command chair from an old Constitution class starship, though instead of a swivel, it had four, metal legs that were bolted to the floor. There was a headrest coming up from the back, with two glass-like rods on either side of the rest. Sanok was roughly placed into the chair. Metal bands slid out of the armrests and around his arms, holding him firmly in place. He tried to break the holds of the bands, but the metal was too strong. He heard someone behind him tapping a console and the chair began to vibrate slightly. The chair must have been emanating some sort of frequency that was affecting his brain, as Sanok quickly began to feel disoriented and tired. His head fell back onto the rest, and he could perceive the rods on each side of him moving closer until they pressed against his temples. Sanok's vision blurred and he felt as though he were floating within a sphere of white nothingness. All that he felt, was a sensation of peace. It was comforting to be wherever he was. Time seemed to have no meaning. Drifting in his little bubble of existence, was all there was. A dark patch appeared in front of him, growing larger, until it coalesced into the shadowy figure of a man. At first, Sanok could not discern the features of the man. All he could tell, was that the person was large. Slowly, the person became more clear. Two legs. Arms with hands and fingers. A hard face, scarred and ridged. A familiar face. Recognition. "Klagth! What are you doing here?" (reply none) (posted by Bob B.) ----- (USS Ticonderoga – Lt. Tom Jackson – 2O/COPS – Day 1 – 1930) Steve Matrix had come over from the Cousteau to discuss an idea he and Andrew Maddox had come up with. Science, never a strong point for Tom, caused him to see clarification. “Let me see if I understand you both. By going as near to the beam as possible, it is hoped the shuttle would be ‘invisible’ to our friends on the station?” (Reply: Matrix, Maddox) Scratching his chin Tom muttered “that might work. We’ll have the Ambassador try and talk to the folks across the way – sort of a diversion”. (Reply: Any on either ship) “Mr. Maddox’s suggestion that we move closer might not be bad either. We’ll go first and attempt tto keep tjheir attention focused on us – then the Cousteau can try to slip unnoticed to the position they need. Sound like a plan all? Tom inquired.” (reply: Any on either shuttle) “Ambassador Turner, as soon as you are ready - contact the Station. Steve – move at as soon as the Ambassador is ready. Mr Gomez, if you can get close enough to locate a landing spot or port let us know. We will slowly move closer.. Questions?” Jackson asked. (Reply: Any present) (Posted by: Bill West) ----- (USS Ticonderoga – Ensign Heath Gomez – Day 1 – 1932) Heath concentrated on his scans and piloting the Ticonderoga as Jackson conversed with the others, they were discussing possibly using the beam to mask the approach of the runabout. It was a good idea, anything that keep them off the radar was fine with him. Ambassador Turner was going to contact the station and speak with, or attempt to speak with the aliens there. After a couple minutes of debate it was apparent they had a plan, Jackson asked if it was fine with everyone. "Sounds good to me." Heath replied. "I'll send an encoded message to the Rosenante filling them in on the plan." Heath went about composing his message and sent it off, Jackson asked him to keep his eyes open for anywhere they may land or gain access to the station. He continued scanning the exterior for any signs of landing platforms, bays or airlocks. After about ten minutes he managed to find something close to the beams source, it was possible they may be detected but with the interference from the beam he couldn't find anything closer. "I've found what looks like an exterior maintenance hatch." Heath reported. "We may have to go EVA to gain access but it's the best I can do for now." (reply any present) (posted by Milo Young) ----- (USS Ticonderoga – Science Officer – Ensign (JG) Andrew Maddox – 1934) “Let me see if I understand you both. By going as near to the beam as possible, it is hoped the shuttle would be ‘invisible’ to our friends on the station?” “Yes, the proximity of the runabout to the beam will serve to hide it from the station, both by line of sight, because they will be on the other side of it, and serve to mask it’s emanations because the beam’s intensity will be orders of magnitude stronger. Once the shields from the runabout adopt the properties of the beam, the only thing left is to sell the fake and make the wormhole look like the runabout went through it. Then they won’t be looking for it, and as long as there are no power signatures coming from the runabout that would hint that it’s a vessel. So silent running protocols, minus the shields, which will be maintaining the façade. A one to two second burst of the impulse engines while they are still directly under the beam, then navigation will be by thrusters only. Engines should be shut down and shields run on auxiliary power until the station is reached.” (Reply Lt Cmdr Matrix or Lt Jackson) “That is correct, sir, the runabout in question will have to make it in under seven to ten seconds. You’ll just have to have a superb pilot.” Scratching his chin Tom muttered “that might work. We’ll have the Ambassador try and talk to the folks across the way – sort of a diversion”. (reply any) “Mr. Maddox’s suggestion that we move closer might not be bad either. We’ll go first and attempt to keep their attention focused on us – then the Cousteau can try to slip unnoticed to the position they need. Sound like a plan all? The Lieutenant inquired.” Andrew nodded his head in agreement. (Reply any) (Posted by Todd) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andersen ACMO - Day 1 - 1935) Andersen carefully listened to the ideas, it would seem the crew did actually found a way to get onto the station. The occupants of the runabout Ticonderoga were busy, talking on their comm links and fine tuning the plan. After a couple of minutes, it really seemed the crew came out with a plan that Andersen thought could actually work. Ailyn kept to herself all this time. This would, in fact, be the first time she would ever be present while meeting a new specie. And somehow, it didn't sound as flattering as it would when she would hear that someone else done it. Considering she knew virtually nothing about this race, all her knowledge, everything she learned at the academy and from the limited time she was on board USS Rosenante, all was in vain. She was not really useful at this point, instead being a back up until they actually get to their two officers - or if an injury would happen. Far beyond the place where Rosenante was, Andersen felt like trapped inside the small runabout. She promised herself some kind of adventure, but did she really wanted to venture into the unknown? She spent her whole life running away from her past nightmares, from becoming like her own mother, and yet all this time she didn't gave a thought about what would her father want. It felt like she was running away from her own destiny, but it would always followed her to the point. She tried finding a decent job on Earth, but a desk job would often make her feel bored about herself - too much time to think about her past, her own failings and way too close to her mother. She needed something to keep her mind of those things. No matter how interesting her past was, it would hurt her to think about it - hours and hours of counseling didn't help how she felt, only taught her how to mask her own feelings, to look everything was alright. For a long number of years before joining the Starfleet, she often contemplated getting some kind of ship of her own and joining either the junkers or some kind of mercenaries. Truth be told, she was rather good at faking documents, lying if she really had to - as she would lie to her counselor - and more then able to find herself a shady deal, if she really looked for it. However, she also knew a life like that would often left her without friends, without any kind of contacts that she could trust. Somewhat, this sounded attracting to her, but another part of her was sure it wouldn't work as well as she thought it would. She would often think it was a blind miracle she survived for this long despite everything that happened in her life - starting from her early childhood. Maybe the destiny takes care for fools. The console was making funny noises, but Andersen could fix on it right now. The darkly lit gray runabout cabin felt like cold like a dead space, however the chair was comfortable, so Ailyn had her head deep into the chair and her left hand over her chin. She was conscious of her bags under her eyes, she hadn't good night's sleep in more then forty-eight hours, but she was still more then able to function. Dragging her chin from one hand to the other, she listened closely what was happening inside the runabout. "I've found what looks like an exterior maintenance hatch." said Gomez. For a second, the Ensign was looking at his console. "We may have to go EVA to gain access but it's the best I can do for now." This came as close to the wake-up call she could ever un officially get. "Do you mean that one?" she pointed her fingers towards a small and rather tight entrance on the station zoomed on the screen infront of Ensign Gomez. (Reply: Gomez) "I guess that means we will have to go one-by-one. I'll take the supplies and I recommend we take additional oxygen packs for our EV suits." stated Andersen trying to make herself useful. (Reply: Any) "Well we know the station is enormous but since we can't scan on the inside of it, we don't know if it's breathable inside." she shrugged. (Reply: Any) "Your guess is as good as mine. It could take long until we find them if we don't manage to scan the installation in some way from the inside." Andersen stated the obvious again. "I sure hope we don't find resistance from the inside." she explained. With any bit of luck, their hosts won't even know they're there and will be able to extract their officers without much resistance. Just in case, and for her own study, she had her tricorder nearby set to scan and profile unknown DNA structures. (Reply: Any, None) (Posted by: Lani) ---- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1936) After moving through several ducts, Tho'var finally arrived at a place which lead to another room. A room he was quite familiar with....his cell. If he had managed to keep his composure since then, it was quite a disappointment. Apparently, the ventilation system had been build in such way that it wasn't connected to the main ventilation system. It was an isolated system, probably alimenting this particular area of the ship or base where the cells were. Tho'var realized that his only hope was were he had located the lifesupport for this area....a place which was protected by several sensors of all kind. His only hope was to disable those sensors....and the question was now....how could he pull this off....if it could actually be done. (Reply no one) (Posted by Nick) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Ensign Heath Gomez- Day 1 - 1937) "Do you mean that one?" Anderson asked pointing out view port towards the station. "That's the one Doc." Heath confirmed. "I guess that means we will have to go one-by-one. I'll take the supplies and I recommend we take additional oxygen packs for our EV suits." stated Andersen trying to make herself useful. Heath knew what the suits were capable of, with the scrubbers set to maximum and the rebreathers properly calibrated they could survive in the EV suits for almost twelve hours maybe longer. "The suits have lots of oxygen in them for the short time it'll take to enter the station." Heath stated. "Well we know the station is enormous but since we can't scan on the inside of it, we don't know if it's breathable inside." she shrugged. "Good point." Heath replied. "The aliens or however is on that station took our people so there must be breathable atmosphere in there somewhere. How long would it take to determine where we can find some breathable air and our missing crew?" "Your guess is as good as mine. It could take long until we find them if we don't manage to scan the installation in some way from the inside." Andersen stated the obvious again. "I sure hope we don't find resistance from the inside." she explained. Heath knew how Doctors regarded violence but there were times it was a necessary evil. "Don't worry Doc." Heath said. "We've got you covered if trouble finds us." (reply Anderson, any) (posted vy Milo) ----- (USS Ticonderoga - Ensign (jg) Ailyn Andesen ACMO - Day 1 - 1938) Ensign Gomez explained that there's enough of oxygen in EV suits. Andersen knew this very well, but she was also a negative person by nature and counted on the fact they will probably be trapped, despite her best hoping they wouldn't. Her opinion stood the same from the earlier that day, right after the two crew members got abducted. She was sure this is a trap. An elaborate one at it as well. For some moments, she gazed back at the Ensign with her mouths half-opened while he was stating she shouldn't worry, that the other crewmembers got her covered. In fact, she wasn't as worried for her own life, or - sadly, for the away team members, as much as for the fact she knew nothing about the inhabitants of the station and the fact they could blow them all up to smithereens in a fraction of the second. It was an obvious shift of power from the usual Starfleet advantage to something they couldn't control. Even worse, knew nothing of. Her brain was working twice as fast as normal - and her normal thinking was rather hectic fast to begin with. She would often think of three or four different things at the time. She would find it difficult to not think of something. As far as she was concerned, it was not humanly possible. In her mind, the pieces of the puzzle started to fall into places. Perhaps they need lab rats for their experiments. After all, that's exactly what she'd do in the name of the research. Granted, not with the sentient beings... or perhaps... ~No, I would never do such a thing.~ she reassured herself. Scratching her head with her left arm, she sighed out deeply. It was obvious she wasn't a mind-reader and couldn't really know exactly what would happen to them. ~So why worry?~ it all made sense now. "I'm.. I'm not worried." explained Ailyn. Her left eye blinking. "I'm sure things will go smooth..." she hastily explained, unbuckling herself from the seat and checking if her tricorder and her standard-issue phaser were at hand. The thing with the suit was - it would ruin her hair. She was very conscious of this fact, and wasn't really looking forward to it. Still, she quickly agreed with herself it would be far better to have a messy hair then to suffocate in the depth of space. (posted by Lani) ----- (Alien Station, ACEO Lieutenant Tho'var Kevras - 1939) Tho'var was concentrating on a way to disable the sensors when he felt a presence. Several presence... They were very very faint.....but he could felt them. Tho'var took several regular breathes. He tried to enter in a deep meditation. After several seconds, his state of mind was the best he could be. He could identify the presences. It was the Rosenante....some of the crew. They were attempting a rescue mission. He hoped to feel the presence of a telepath among the rescue team.....but he couldn't feel any. Their presence was so faint...he doubted he could really communicate with them. For a brief second, he had a connection with whom seemed to be Lieutenant Jackson. He lost the connection almost immediately. Without any telepath in their group....that would be impossible to communicate with them. At best, all that lieutenant Jackson would perceive was the image of Tho'var for a brief second....not even enough for Tho'var to tell a message....that they were safe, for the moment. His best hope was with Sanok. Perhaps the Vulcan could somehow increase Tho'var telepathic ability just enough to complete the mind projection. All he would need was five seconds. But he didn't know if Sanok was going to return. He was still alive, Tho'var could clearly feel his presence....but he had no idea what those aliens had in mind. (Reply no one) (Posted by Nick) ----- (Alien Station, FO/CSec Lieutenant Commander Sanok, Day 1, 1940) "Klagth! What are you doing here?" said Sanok. "I'm here to collect on a debt you owe," said Klagth. "A debt? What do I owe?" said Sanok. Klagth laughed. It wasn't a laugh of scorn or derision, but the mirthful laugh of Klagth as a friend. "I helped you and Ben. Several times. I even sacrificed myself so the two of you could rescue Marah." It was true that Klagth had helped him and Ben both times they were on Axtis III. He had warned them of the way things worked on the planet. He had aided in the investigation of Kavol's murder. He had told them of the ch'mok, the trial by ordeal custom that led to eventually finding and rescuing Marah. On Aldavye, he had been wounded by phaser fire and covered the retreat so they could escape. Sanok supposed he did indeed owe Klagth a debt. "What is it you wish, Klagth?" "Tell me the locations of the home worlds of the telepathic races in the Federation." Sanok was confused. Part of him wanted to help Klagth, but part of him was saying this entire situation was illogical, that it couldn't be happening. "You should already know that. Why do you want me to tell you?" "Have you ever wondered what happened to me after you, Ben, and Marah escaped from Aldavye?" "Of course." "Mousette kept me alive." It was at that point when Sanok noticed several scars on Klagth's face and neck that weren't there the last time they were together. "After Mousette had his fun, he sold me as a slave. I was able to escape and find work, but in order to prove my worth to my new employer, I must provide him with this information about telepaths. You owe me much, my friend. Help me with this." Sanok didn't know what to do. Every discipline he knew was telling him this was wrong, but there was still that urge to help. "I do not understand, Klagth. You know where the major telepathic races are." "I was on Axtis III for many years, and most of the time drunk on bloodwine. I am also not as young as I was. It is not so easy to remember things anymore." That was logical. Still, something in Sanok's mind was saying he should resist this with all his strength. "Why does your new employer need to know where the telepathic races live?" For a moment that was barely perceptible, Klagth's expression changed from friendliness to hatred, and back again. A broad smile formed on his grizzled face. "My employer represents a new race that is evolving telepathic abilities for the first time. They wish to contact other telepaths in the hopes of learning and understanding these new abilities." A new race? There hadn't been any reports of such a people. Of course, the Rosenante was in a somewhat isolated sector, so it was feasible they were not privy to this information. On the other hand, this story was beginning to seem illogical. Klagth still hadn't explained how he had found Sanok, or where they were. There was also that sense he still had that he should resist. "Klagth, you are my friend, and everything you did to help me, Ben, and Marah, is most agreeable. However, I believe I should not help you. Perhaps you should contact the Federation directly." Klagth's irritation was more visible. "Sanok, you owe me this favor." "I am sorry, Klagth." It was at that point that Klagth became enraged. Sanok had never before heard such a string of obscenities, even from an angry Klingon. "You will regret this!" bellowed Klagth. The large Klingon's image melted back into a dark mass, fading into nothingness, leaving Sanok alone in his bubble of whiteness. After a few moments, the white disappeared and Sanok was back in the chair. His mind was filled with images he could not discern. He could also feel the emotion of hatred around him, as though it were a living entity. He felt mentally drained, but also physically weak, as though he had been running for hours. The metal bands securing him to the chair, retracted into the armrest. One of the beings spoke in their language, and two of the guards pulled Sanok out of the chair. He was still too weak to resist, or to even walk, so they dragged him out of the room, down the corridor, and to a turbolift. Sanok tried to play back in his mind the route back to his cell, but he could not focus. The next thing he was able to comprehend, was that he had been thrown to the floor. Looking up through bleary eyes, he could see Kevras being led away by their captors. (reply Kevras) (posted by Bob B.)