Compile#9 May 19-23 (USS Rosenante & USS Boudicca Joint) --------------------------------------------------------------------- Mission Once More Into the Breach Day 2 Stardate 2414.01.16 Compile Summary (USS Rosenante – Engineering Support Lab – ATT LCDR Lorimar – 0312) (USS Boudicca – Main Engineering – ATT LCDR Lorimar – 0558) (USS Boudicca – Ready Room – CO Captain Durand – 0840) (USS Rosenante, Ready Room, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 2 0845) ======================================================= Mission Once More Into the Breach Day 3 Stardate 2414.01.17 Compile Summary (USS Boudicca - Secondary Sickbay Lab - ACMO Dr Candle - 0011) (USS Boudicca – Secondary Sickbay Lab – CO Captain Durand – 0014) (USS Boudicca, Dr Candle‘s Quarters, ACMO, Dr Candle - Day 3, 0911) (USS Rosenante, Transporter Room One, ACMO, Dr Candle - Day 3, 0940) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - aFO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 3 - 1000) (USS Boudicca - Docking Bay One - Ensign Vanik - Day 3 - 1003) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Ensign Vanik - Day 3 - 1005) ======================================================= Mission Once More Into the Breach Day 4 Stardate 2414.01.18 Compile Summary (USS Boudicca - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign(jg) Henry Jacobs - 0016) (USS Boudicca – Observation Lounge – CO Captain Durand – 0024) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 4 0026) (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO Captain Durand - 0100) (USS Rosenante, Quarters, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 4 0105) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 4 0230) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, 20/COPS Lieutenant Thomas Jackson , Day 4 0233) (USS Rosenante - Bridge - FO - Commander T'Larah Sullivan - 0240) (USS Rosenante - Bridge - CTAC/SEC Lt. jg Ben Soma - 0242) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, Lieutenant jg Sanok, 0244) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, CTAC/SEC Lt. jg Ben Soma, 0245) (USS Boudicca – Bridge – CO Captain Durand – 0246*) (USS Rosenante, Bridge, 2O/COPS Lt. Tom Jackson, Day 4 0249) (USS Boudicca - Bridge - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 0250) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante – Engineering Support Lab – ATT LCDR Lorimar – 0312) “Clearly, the heavyweights are wantin’ tae be able tae blow somethin’ up in a slightly unconventional way,” Bob interjected in answer to Matt’s earlier question. Matt went into a lengthy response to Bob’s questions. The senior engineer seemed to be thinking as he spoke. Bob had seen the look before, usually when Matt was hatching something exceptionally clever. "At least not in a sustainable beam format." Matt paused, and it seemed to his friend that he was doing some sort of internal calculations. “What aboot a burst? Ah wonder if that might hae any effect? Even a disruptive one?” "It's always easier to create a burst of power than to sustain one. That's why bombs are easier to make than beam weapons for example. What about trying to build an antiproton bomb instead of an antimatter bomb?" Bob glanced at the jumble of notes that Matt had in front of him, attempting to follow his friend’s line of reasoning. He ran his fingers through his beard and cocked his head slightly, then spoke quietly on the subject at hand. “Well, ah certainly cannae just *cancel* the antimatter device, as ah’ve been ordered tae build it by the Captain. However, ah dinnae see any reason why I… or rather *we* couldnae work on an antiproton project as well Matt.” "Well I think it would be safer. Antimatter affects subspace, we already know that Antiprotons don't. They only interact with solid matter, and I'm pretty certain that we couldn't build anything big enough to be a true threat to space-time. Antiprotons are short-lived, deadly to organic tissue and relatively powerful." Matt went on to further explain that he could generate antiprotons in small bursts. As usual, his ideas were fascinating. “Its nae all that unusual for antiproton pockets tae form on starship deflector emitters, as ye know… but creating them on demand is something else entirely of course. Ye say ye have that beaten, then that’s the first step. What about delivery? We cannae just modify a phaser emitter strip tae excite and direct antiprotons… or can we?” (Reply McLaren) “The bomb idea might have mair merit as ye say. Far easier tae trigger a buildup and detonation… easier even than generating a cohesive wavefront. Though ah’d certainly like tae look at that. Shall we see what we might lay oot?” (Reply McLaren, Room for more) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca – Main Engineering – ATT LCDR Lorimar – 0558) "Chief," Anton spoke as he approached and tried to get Bob's attention. Lorimar turned from Jacobs to face the approaching Gesar. “Far be it from me tae correct the Chief Engineer,” he began with a smile. “But ah think yer addressin’ me wie yer own title… Chief.” (Reply Gesar iyw, Jacobs iyw) "It's great to see you sir. We have not had much opportunity to work together since your... promotion." Anton turned toward Henry, "I see you've met Ensign Jacobs." Bob shrugged slightly. “Ah… well, ye know the ATT job has been keepin’ me rather busy… workin’ on special projects an’ all.” ~None of which have amounted tae a damned thing yet,~ he thought with some disgust. He *really* missed his old job, but it was at least in good hands… if not his own anymore. “Aye. Mister Jacobs was just askin’ me aboot the secondary shielding system.” Gesar briefly explained what the aCEO and ACEO were looking for. Lorimar fingered his beard briefly as he considered the question and his response to it. “Ah’m afraid that’s mair a tactical question than an engineering one. It will operate wie virtually equal efficiency either way. ‘Best’ operation would depend verra much on what the nature of the threat was, specifically. For example, if the ship were taking an exceptionally heavy burst of damage… what the tactical people call an ‘Alpha Strike’, say… then cross connecting the systems and having them run virtually in tandem would gie a more layered protection and efficiency. If ye were expecting a longer, running fight, such as we had at the MDP, then we alternated between systems tae gie each one a bit of time tae recover. As for the antilepton problem, that’s solved… or should be by the design changes. Ah needn’t gie ye a lesson in basic shield operation, as ah’m certain ye ken what happens as they operate. Because of the nature of the battle, there was a buildup of antileptons in the collectors, far more than could be safely or quickly dissipated through the normal systems. We had tae take the secondary system off line, and reduce the buildup wie hand held antilepton collectors.” ~Which is how Joshua was killed,~ he thought but didn’t feel the need to say aloud. “Ah’m not sure what else ah can tell ye… aside from cautioning that the design changes have never been tested under fire… just simulation so far.” (Reply Gesar, Jacobs, Any, Room for more iyw) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca – Ready Room – CO Captain Durand – 0840) "Our options here are limited and I am offering a solution to this problem. By all means reject it if you wish. I have no problem with that. It is one option among many that I have considered since I rather doubt that we would want to hand the Borg the Rose or the Boudicca on a plate if it comes to that. This was the solution I came up with,” stated his aFO. “As abhorrent as I find them,” Durand interjected quietly, “I am forced to concur with Captain Salid on this point. However they came to be Borg, they were once, and still are, sentient beings.” He took a sip from his coffee and let his gaze travel to the viewport where the stars still streaked past. His focus returned after a brief moment and he glanced at Caskie, wondering what she might be thinking. “’Scorched Earth’ tactics can be a necessary evil, in order to deny strategic or tactical objectives to an enemy combatant… but assassination or genocide are not our way. As the Captain so correctly pointed out, we cannot lower ourselves to their level. Defeating them by becoming them… that’s no victory, is it?” (Reply Any) Captain Salid once again emphasized at length that direct engagement of the Borg was to be considered a last resort. Alan dearly hoped that option would not be needed, but he feared it might well be out of their hands. (Reply Any) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Ready Room, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 2 0845) Here was a gray line. one of those moments when ideological arguments could tear apart a command team simply through their own definitions of what may be appropriate action to take against an enemy. Ahmed had seen it before during the civil war. Officers on both sides willing to take more and more extreme measures to insure the victory for their own side, their personal belief and ideologies. It was a dangerous ground to tread and Ahmed realized it could cost him this mission' success before he could even get underway. It seemed, however that he was blessed in the sense that Durand had the same beliefs concerning the Borg that he did, even if he did have history with them. “As abhorrent as I find them,” Durand interjected quietly, “I am forced to concur with Captain Salid on this point. However they came to be Borg, they were once, and still are, sentient beings.” “’Scorched Earth’ tactics can be a necessary evil, in order to deny strategic or tactical objectives to an enemy combatant… but assassination or genocide are not our way. As the Captain so correctly pointed out, we cannot lower ourselves to their level. Defeating them by becoming them… that’s no victory, is it?” "Into the pit I fell, like A fiend I fought a fiend." Ahmed quoted. (reply Any) "Milton, Paradise Lost." Ahmed replied. "The point however is as true today as it was the time the work was written. We cannot allow ourselves to become that which we despise, for in doing so we only strengthen that which we choose to stand against." He shook his head. "We will not resort to biological warfare against the Borg and that is the end of the discussion on that topic." He added with finality. "Captain Durand put together some of the more promising plans together for my review. The rest of you, return to your duties and carry on. When there are new orders to be issued, Captain Durand and I will pass them on as needed." "You are all dismissed." (reply All) Daniel Greene ======================================================= (USS Boudicca - Secondary Sickbay Lab - ACMO Dr Candle - 0011) “Doctor Candle. My own father is a physician, so I’ve had considerable exposure to medical procedure and practice... and a great deal of medical ethics.” Basil was expecting this ~Here we go~ “Do you realize that what you are proposing is tantamount to targeted assassination of a species? The Borg, as abhorrent as they may be, are sentient beings. The Federation -- Starfleet at any rate -- has not, does not, and will not engage in that sort of behavior. Absenting Starfleet for the moment, what happened to your Hippocratic Oath, Doctor Candle? ‘First, do no harm’? Have you stopped to consider the fact that your proposal... invention, whatever you choose to call it, is completely un-ethical? Are you aware that the Balthus Accords of 2307 absolutely forbid this sort of bioweapon research?” Basil wasn’t angry, this was to be expected. The accords were signed by all of the federation planets to prevent a lot of side projects that had sprung up during the 23rd century. It covered a lot of things, diseases, experimentation and especially the unregulated use of protomatter after the failed Project Genesis. He knew all about them having them drilled into him during training. It went against his upbringing in so many ways but he was Starfleet … at the moment. “As of right now you and the Captain of the Rosenante probably have crew members looking at ways of stopping the borg if they attack. Torpedoes, maybe even bombs. I am always amazed at how that sort of violence is deemed appropriate yet a simple virus is the worse thing since man crawled from the ooze.” He paused briefly, hands raised, palms facing the captain in a placating manner, “But in answer to your questions I have neither ignored my Hippocratic Oath nor the Accords. As I have said I have made a few tweaks of my own. Basically the ’maggots’ now have a genetic short life-span, they will die very rapidly. The Bio-toxin only attacks the flesh around any metallic implants, not anything else, thereby rendering the implants useless. That is all they will do and they will disable any borg and not kill them.” ~Well the chances are very small~ “If this occurs during the assimilation process then it would delay the inevitable assimilation as the nanites would eventually overcome the toxin. Think of it as a short term measure, handy for quick escapes through borg drones or even helping assimilation to a degree.” The captain continued “At any rate... I’m not the mission commander in this instance. And, due to the gravity of our situation, you will prepare a summary of your work, and present it to Commander Caskie -- as you were previously ordered -- so that we can discuss it at the command staff briefings. Captain Salid has final authority on all aspects of this mission. I strongly suggest that you refrain from altering your memory in any way, as you will likely be called upon to explain your work. Is that clear, Doctor?” “It is Captain," Basilo replied, " though I do wish you would reconsider. The more that are aware of this, the more the borg will be too if they get onboard and are assimilated. The idea is more for a quick strike, a distraction - a way to prevent communication between the drones. That is why I came to you rather than the mission commander. The borg will go after him, not necessarily you.” (Reply Durand) (Posted by Warren Simkins) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca – Secondary Sickbay Lab – CO Captain Durand – 0014) Durand was mildly surprised, given his previous tone, that Candle acquiesced so readily. ~I can feel it… he is patting the patient on the head. ‘There, there Captain… even though you can’t possibly understand the brilliance of my idea, I will do what you say because you’re in charge…’~ He *almost* smiled at the thought… but only almost. “Doctor, I appreciate your innovative thinking. We *do* need that, and will for the duration of the mission, and in fact always. The fact remains, however… there are certain lines we absolutely *must* not cross, in order to remain who we are. As to the debate of technological versus biological weapons… *that* decision was made a long time ago, by people a great deal more important than me.” (Reply Candle, Room for more iyw) “As I said, it’s not my decision in any case… so my consideration, or reconsideration, is pointless. Rest assured, Doctor, this is not our, or my, first experience with the need for information security. We have taken steps to compartmentalize information as much as possible, but that cuts both ways. Too much distribution is as dangerous as too little. And, you are proceeding from a false assumption by the way. The Borg rarely target specific individuals, unless they have to as part of their overall goal. As CO of this ship, I am also deputy mission commander. Therefore, I have equal access to our plans and data. I’m at least as likely a target, if not more so than Captain Salid. We have no idea which vessel would be targeted as the greater threat according to the Borg… the Boudicca might well be that vessel. If so, by your reasoning, I might just be the primary target.” (Reply Candle, Any, Room for more iyw) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca, Dr Candle‘s Quarters, ACMO, Dr Candle - Day 3, 0911) As the great twentieth century philosopher Timberlake said, “What goes around, Comes all the way back around” He was sleeping after his work from the night before when he was awoken by his communicator. Ever since he became a doctor, he has learnt to sleep lightly. =^=Doctor Ichijo to Doctor Candle=^= He sat up ~Ichijo why does that ring a bell… the Rosenante doctor~ “Doctor Candle here how may I help?” His voice sounded deeper from his sudden waking =^=Captain Salid has come across an approach that he would like an opinion on. He and I would like to extend an invitation to sit in on the briefing if it is at all possible. Due to time constraints, we will need to begin as quickly as we can.”=^= “Well I’m free now” he replied =^=Excellent, I will meet you in Transporter room one in fifteen minutes=^= ~Enough time for a quick wake up wash.~ --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Transporter Room One, ACMO, Dr Candle - Day 3, 0940) His reenergised body appeared in a similar yet different transporter room. Thought they were technically the same there were subtle differences. Not the people that was normal, the feel of the ship was always different. Standing by the transporter chief was a woman of asian descent wearing the uniform of the medical wing of Starfleet. She extended her hand and smiled, a warm smile ~Lovely bone structure~ he thought “Dr Candle, it is a pleasure to finally meet the disembodied voice” “It is Indeed,” he said shaking her hand, “If you will come with me, we’ll get the briefing started” Basil nodded and followed her out of the ready room. Walking through the corridors of the Rosenante he again got the feeling of familiarity mingled with unfamiliarity. The crew wore the same uniform but there were no recognisable faces. “Excuse me for asking what is your Captain expecting from this briefing?” (Reply Kimiko) “Is there anything I should know of your Captain? I … huh can tend to upset authority figures so anything I should know?” (Reply Kimiko) (Posted by Warren Simkins) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca - Bridge - aFO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 3 - 1000) Josh was manning the Bridge to give the Captain a well deserved break when Ops turned to her and announced that there was an automated shuttle approaching them at warp and asking for docking permission. Ops continued. "It is delivering our newest crew member an Ensign Vanik, a science officer." Josh nodded. "Very well then Ops give docking permission and send someone to escort the Ensign to the Bridge." --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca - Docking Bay One - Ensign Vanik - Day 3 - 1003) Vanik waited for the door in the shuttle to open before stepping down into the Docking Bay. He felt excited, but in the way which most of the humanoid species would not experience excitement. To be able to serve on one of the most primary warships within the fleet was something to be proud of. At the same time, it was also a logical choice. Vanik had left the Academy with well above average grades and only a scientist of his calibre would fit the role. Such a ship would need the best that Starfleet had to offer and he was amongst the best. Not that he was arrogant in anyway, but there were times when he felt he had to point out such things before in the past. He never did understand it when people requested ships because 'they looked nice'. He found that many species, mostly Humans, were guilty of this. He requested to serve on the Bouddicca because it was only the logical choice to send someone with his skills here. He knew that he had to report to the Bridge and so he left the Docking Bay and made his way there. --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca - Bridge - Ensign Vanik - Day 3 - 1005) Vanik entered the Bridge and approached the woman sitting in the Command chair. He offered his PADD to the Officer. "Ensign Vanik reporting for duty, Sir." Josh looked their newest Science Officer over and smiled at him as she took his padd and looked it over. "Welcome aboard the Boudicca Ensign. It's nice to finally have a science officer aboard." She signed off on his padd and handed it back to him. "Please liase with Ops to find your quarters. However once you have done that I need to put you immediately to work so I cannot give you much time to settle in. We are on our way to check out why the Borg are paying particular attention to a piece of real estate in the Dovek system near the Romulan border and I need you to start reviewing all the information we have already gathered and start to come up with some ideas why. We have less than 24 hour before we reach there and everything you need to know will be in the science lab. You're dismissed Ensign." (Posted by Marilyn and Gav) ======================================================= (USS Boudicca - Main Engineering - ACEO Ensign(jg) Henry Jacobs - 0016) All sections in engineering reported ready as Jacobs called out to them. Engineering began to buzz with the chatter of all the people realizing the they were about to encouter the Borg. After everyone acknoledged their readiness Henry began to address the staff. "Ladies and gentleman we are about to drop out of work and enter the Dovak system. You all know why we are here, you all know what you are here to do. Put your fears aside and prepare for the task at hand. Man your stations and prepare for further orders." Everyone scattered to their stations and began monitoring their readouts. Engineering was ready and Jacobs made the call to notify the bridge. "Ensign Jacobs to the bridge. Engineering reporting in. Warp core power at 100% and all stations reporting ready. Awaiting your orders." (Reply none) (posted by Darryl) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca – Observation Lounge – CO Captain Durand – 0024) Durand had kept himself busy for the required few minutes after security had notified him that their ‘guest’ was aboard the ship. He was particularly annoyed at having what in his mind was little more than a hitchhiker aboard, particularly at such a critical juncture. He had to do two things he was not pleased about. First, he had no choice about taking the Romulan aboard. It had been so ordered by Captain Salid, and as a matter of practicality the Boudicca was the logical choice to berth the shuttle. Secondly, he was forced to concede that the Romulans – perhaps *this* Romulan – might have useful tactical data. At this point, he would take any edge they could get. None of that, however, showed on his face. Neither did it prevent him from timing his arrival so that the Lieutenant had a few minutes to wait for him. He took a seat at the table and nodded at Ensign Signos. “Ensign, thank you for keeping our guest company. I’d appreciate it if you would wait outside, please.” (Reply Signos iyw) After the young officer had left, he addressed the Romulan visitor. “What brings you to our little gathering, Lieutenant?” (Reply T'Rillian, Room for more) After he listened to her response, he asked the bridge to establish a secure channel to the Rosenante. Not the new holographic conferencing technology, but the conventional comm. channel. ~Not about to showcase our newest toys for her,~ he thought. When Salid came on the line, he smiled thinly. “Captain, I thought you might have some questions for our Romulan guest.” (Reply Salid, T'Rillian, Any) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 4 0026) "Incoming message from the Boudicca, Captain." Shae reported. "Put it on screen." The image changed to that of Durand, obviously sitting in the Boudicca's observation lounge, accompanied by a woman of Romulan Descent. =^= Captain, I thought you might have some questions for our Romulan guest.=^= Ahmed smiled, "Not so many questions captain, but more of a request." he replied and then turned his attentions to Ael. "Lieutenant, I did a little looking and it seems that you are or were rather an instructor at Starfleet Academy. That now being clear, I would appreciate an explanation as to why you are out here and what orders, if any you may be operating under." (reply Ael) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca - Ready Room - CO Captain Durand - 0100) Despite the fact that the Boudicca was at Red Alert, Alan found a moment to retire to his ready room. There had been a few finishing touches he wanted to put on his recommendations to Salid, and time was short. He needed to take a few uninterrupted moments to finish the task. Besides, Caskie was more than capable of handling the ship in his place. Much, or at least some, of the detailed tactical planning between he and the mission commander was yet to be done. They had worked with the department heads of both ships to set a course of action, and yet some of it -- quite a bit, really -- was necessarily vague and flexible until they could determine the precise nature of the Borg threat. That was the problem he had been working on, and he was finally ready to make his initial suggestions. He refilled his coffee from the replicator, then sat back down at his desk, with the data and summary in front of him. He had prepared what he thought was a good initial plan. He hoped so; Salid was counting on him, and Durand was not about to disappoint if he could help it. “Computer, get me Captain Salid of the Rosenante. Narrowest possible directed transmission, minimal energy packeting. Encode and scramble, authorization Durand four-seven-beta-tango.” The Starfleet logo on his small desk viewer was soon replaced by the face of the task force commanding officer. Durand smiled at his image, and nodded his head slightly. “Sir, I have my initial recommendations ready regarding the issue we discussed earlier.” (Reply Salid, Room for more) “Well Captain, I will be brief, as time is short for us. I’m broadcasting a data packet to you... now... which is encoded for the two of us only. If you wish to release it for wider dissemination that is of course your call.” (Reply Salid iyw) “Right. The tactical planning portion is encoded separately. Most of that, of course, is contingent upon what we find in the next few hours, and what we determine our friends out there are up to. As to phase I, which is our recon tasking, I suggest a three layered approach. First, we can launch -- singly or in pairs -- low observability probes. Class VII’s would do, even unmodified. In terms of risk/benefit, they will give us at least an initial look at what is going on, with no risk to personnel. So I’d class that as ‘low risk/low benefit.’” (Reply Salid iyw) “Second, and I think this option should be much more effective, we should modify one of our Lorimar class runabouts to maximize its sensor capacity. I understand they have field configurable modular design, so that should be easy enough to do. I’d suggest a minimal crew assignment... say an engineer or two, along with a scientist or two, and perhaps a pilot. With the ramped up capabilities and a live crew, we’d be far more likely to gather some useful data on the Borg operation. Much greater risk, but significantly greater potential benefit of course.” (Reply Salid, Room for more) “Last option that I have detailed here Captain would be using one or both of the Capital ships for a close approach and scan. Commander Sullivan suggested an unpowered approach trajectory to minimize our detection and threat levels. I’d list this one as ‘last choice’. I’m loathe to risk either ship and so many personnel just to get a look. Particularly if we can do it another way. *Any* other way.” (Reply Salid, Room for more) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Quarters, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 4 0105) The fact that Ahmed was still wide awake at a little after one in the morning was enough proof to show that he was seriously concerned. He'd managed just a couple of hours of rest, but his dreams were haunted by thoughts of the Borg and so he had risen and made himself a cup of coffee that Captain Durand had presented to him at their first meeting. He stood considering a lot of things as he looked out of the window of his quarters, trying to center himself amidst a sea of emotional strain. The comm panel in his quarters chirped. he took a few steps over to the terminal and settled into his chair. He then accessed the message, which was from the Boudicca. Durand smiled at his image, and nodded his head slightly. “Sir, I have my initial recommendations ready regarding the issue we discussed earlier.” Ahmed nodded. It was a call he had been expecting for some time. "Go ahead captain." =^=Well Captain, I will be brief, as time is short for us. I’m broadcasting a data packet to you... now... which is encoded for the two of us only. If you wish to release it for wider dissemination that is of course your call. =^= Ahmed smiled and accessed the newly arrived data, allowing the system to flash through the screens quickly. He wasn't worried about missing details. He knew his perfect memory wouldn't fail him now. "We have an encoded data file here in addition to the original encryption?" he asked. =^=Right. The tactical planning portion is encoded separately. Most of that, of course, is contingent upon what we find in the next few hours, and what we determine our friends out there are up to. =^= =^=As to phase I, which is our recon tasking, I suggest a three layered approach. First, we can launch -- singly or in pairs -- low observability probes. Class VII’s would do, even unmodified. In terms of risk/benefit, they will give us at least an initial look at what is going on, with no risk to personnel. So I’d class that as ‘low risk/low benefit.’ =^= Ahmed nodded. Low risk was a good possibility. He wondered exactly what sort of benefit they'd get them though through all the antiproton interference. "Go on." He prompted, indicating he'd understood the recommendation. =^=Second, and I think this option should be much more effective, we should modify one of our Lorimar class runabouts to maximize its sensor capacity. I understand they have field configurable modular design, so that should be easy enough to do. I’d suggest a minimal crew assignment... say an engineer or two, along with a scientist or two, and perhaps a pilot. With the ramped up capabilities and a live crew, we’d be far more likely to gather some useful data on the Borg operation. Much greater risk, but significantly greater potential benefit of course. =^= "That sounds like a well balanced option. You mentioned three options, what's your third one?" He asked. =^=Last option that I have detailed here Captain would be using one or both of the Capital ships for a close approach and scan. Commander Sullivan suggested an unpowered approach trajectory to minimize our detection and threat levels. I’d list this one as ‘last choice’. I’m loathe to risk either ship and so many personnel just to get a look. Particularly if we can do it another way. *Any* other way.=^= Ahmed gave his counterpart a single nod. "Agreed Captain. I'd like to implement both the first two options. We'll send in the probes first and if we need further data, then we'll implement the reconnaissance mission. I understand that Commander Lorimar and Commander McLaren designed and built that Runabout class, is that correct?" (reply Durand) "Then that makes them uniquely qualified for the mission." Ahmed replied. "I'd like you to ask them if they'd be willing to undertake the mission. Lorimar would have command. To that team if they are willing we can add, Ensigns Romanoff, Willowbrook, Holly, Vanik, Maddox and Lt Major Shae who can act as their pilot. I don't want this compulsory, so if they do not want to undertake the mission, find replacements. Also if you feel you need more personnel, feel free to add them to your mission specifications. Please have the modifications to the Lorimar Class undertaken and ready for departure prior to our arrival at Dovek II's moon if at all possible. We'll deploy the probes at that time." Ahmed paused. "Good work captain. Do you have anything else?" (reply Durand) Daniel Greene --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid, Day 4 0230) Ahmed was frustrated. All they could tell about the Borg at present was that they were using some sort of Antiproton device. The side affects were unpleasant, communications were starting to be affected, as were sensors. The powerful subspace distortions were going to wreak havoc with their ability to determine exactly what it was that the Borg were up to. Despite that, there was a more positive side to the situation. The Odds were good that the Borg couldn't detect them at this range either, unless of course they had modified their sensors to counter the intense interference that the antiprotons caused. Already the implications of the Borg being able to power a coherent sustainable Antiproton weapon was problematic. Such a weapon was well known for their destructive capability. At present such a device had only been encountered three times in the history of the Federation. First by the USS Constellation, then by the original USS Enterprise, and finally several years ago by the USS Boudicca. All three times they were the same device, an alien probe dubbed the planet killer that used an Antiproton beam to destroy entire planets so that it could ingest the debris to power itself. The Rosenante's sensors dropped off sharply as the starship slipped into the massive Magnetosphere of the Class J Gas Giant that inhabited the system's fourth planetary orbit. The massive energy field broke up the energy signature's of the two Federation starships. Scattering them amongst the corona of ionized gas, magnetic flux and energetic energy bursts that dominated the planet's upper atmosphere. Ahmed observed the planet as the two ship's circled around behind it. It was massive, about a third again as large as the Sol System's Own King of the Gods, Jupiter. But unlike Jupiter, which was bound in stripes of orange, red, white and gold, Dovek IV was a much more subdued planet. It's massive storms were smaller than the Great Red Spot, but they were more numerous. The bands were a subdued, blue, brown and rustic tan, sliding past each other in hurried cycles, until they were forced to co-mingle at the edges of one of the planet's numerous storm systems. There, streaks of white; clouds of frozen ammonia and methane crystals made their presence known, as they gathered in low pressure systems surrounded by the massive storm fronts and the eddies that they created along their peripheral edges. It was a beautiful sight, one that Ahmed would have liked to spend a little time cataloging and studying, if it were not for the imminent threat posed by the two Borg starships waiting for them in the inner system. The two ships passed between one of the Giant's metallic captured satellite's and the swirling thermosphere of the massive Goliath. The tumbling captured iron body was massive, maybe 300 km at it's greatest length, and it was tumbling rapidly end over end. The mostly ferrous body, seemed to glow as it interacted with the massive magnetic field of it's large master, ionized particles curved around it, as it's own magnetic field magnified that of it's gravitational partner. It was a splendid sight, and unlike anything else that Ahmed had ever witnessed before. And then, as quickly as they had entered the magnetosphere, they were exiting it. Their hyperbolic vector, curving them inward towards the system's thick asteroidal belt. A passive sensor scan showed that there were hundreds of thousands of asteroids, with at least a third of them larger than either the Rosenante or the Boudicca. The rest would be deflected by the navigational arrays. This didn't mean that there was little to no danger. At full impulse speed, the two ships were just below warp one. Even a speck of dust at that speed would be deadly. There'd be enough force delivered in the impact that it would be equivalent to roughly 50,000 nuclear bombs. No starship, despite her defenses could survive that. Which was why Starfleet regulations required all Helmsman to decrease speed to at least one-quarter impulse. At least at those velocities, there was a slim chance of survival should the unthinkable happen. But Ahmed had no intention of decreasing speed. He couldn't risk detection by the Borg while they were so far away from knowing why they were here. He had full confidence in Starfleet Engineers to keep their systems running, and he had the same confidence in the helmsmen of both starships. "Mister Shae, maintain course and speed. Once we enter the field you have free helm, we need to exit at these coordinates." (reply Shae) Ahmed tapped out the exit coordinates on his command chair console and transmitted them to the Helm. He then turned to Jackson. "Mister Jackson get me a tight beam to the Boudicca." (reply Jackson) A few moments later Captain Durand dominated his main view screen. "Captain, we are to maintain speed as we pass through the asteroid field. I can not risk early detection by the Borg. As such, once we get inside, I recommend that you break formation if needed. I'm transmitting exit coordinates and a time line to you now." (reply Durand) "See you on the other side Captain, Rosenante out." (reply Durand) "Mister Soma, Charge the secondary shield system and bring it on-line." (reply Soma) He tapped his commbadge, "Salid to Matrix and O'Neill" (reply Matrix, O'Neill) "Gentlemen, we're about to pass through an asteroid belt at full impulse. I need you and your teams to be extra vigilant. Watch those shields and the navigational array closely. We'll also need an increase in power to the inertial dampeners." As if to punctuate his words the ships shook for a moment as it passed into the outer edge of the Asteroid belt. "Advise me immediately of any serious problems." he concluded. (Reply Matrix, O'Neill) "Salid out" The captain tapped his commbadge again as another shudder ran through the ship. "Salid to Ichijo" (reply Ichijo) "Please be prepared for potential minor injuries, the ride is going to be a bit rough Doctor." (reply Ichijo) "Understood Salid out." The ship shuddered again and Salid turned to look at Sullivan. "Mister Sullivan, you have the bridge. I'll be in my quarters. Notify me when we've emerged from the field or if there are any significant changes." (reply Sullivan) "Mister Jackson, monitor the Boudicca, advise commander Sullivan immediately if she appears to be having any trouble. (reply Jackson) (reply Jackson, O'Neill, Matrix, Sullivan, Ichijo, Soma, Durand, Shae, Any) Daniel Greene --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, 20/COPS Lieutenant Thomas Jackson , Day 4 0233) Tom watched the beauty of the mass they were soon to enter. His attention quickly reverted to the here and now when he heard the skipper order "Mister Jackson get me a tight beam to the Boudicca." Jackson's fingers flew over his keys. "Tight commo tunnel established Sir" Tom replied. (Reply: skipper) Tom and the others braced for a dash through the asteroid belt. Captain Salid concluded his talk with the CO of the Boudicca. The atmosphere ratcheted up another notch. Captain Salid was about to try something SF Command was dead set against - transiting an asteroid belt at full impulse. The thought caused Tom to start to sweat. If the dual shield system fail, they'd all die in a bright fireball. The skipper of the Rose issued. Additional instructions "Mister Jackson, monitor the Boudicca, advise commander Sullivan immediately if she appears to be having any trouble." "Yes Sir" Jackson replied as the Rose shuddered from another asteroid hit. (Reply; any present) (Posted by Bill) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca – Bridge – CO Captain Durand – 0236) At least they were doing. Sort of. All the planning, coordination, speculation, mental gymnastics… all of it, over the past three some odd days had worn his nerves to a greater extent than he cared to admit. More than a modicum of patience and even more perseverance was always required of a command officer, and Durand had both in spades. But the exceptional stress of preparation and planning had fallen heavily on both ships’ officers and crews. Most of them, however, had a distinct advantage over the Captains; they were busy. He wondered for a moment what Captain Salid was thinking. Were his thoughts along similar lines? He very much wished that they had more time to interact. Over the short time they had known each other, Alan had quickly developed an enormous respect and admiration for the senior officer. He was glad that Salid was in command of the group; if anyone could get them through, it would be a man of his evident competence and capability. Not that Durand had doubts about his own skill set, not at all. However, Captain Salid brought an immense amount of experience to the table, and even better than that the *nature* of his experience was quite different from his own. The gestalt of the two men would be an effective and efficient one, of that he had no doubt. “Captain, tight beam signal from the Rosenante,” Lt. Roberts reported. “On screen.” The image shifted from the Dovek system slipping by to that of the now familiar Rosenante Captain. =^=Captain, we are to maintain speed as we pass through the asteroid field. I can not risk early detection by the Borg. As such, once we get inside, I recommend that you break formation if needed. I'm transmitting exit coordinates and a time line to you now.=^= ~But it’s okay to risk hitting an asteroid at .8c?~ he thought but merely smiled. “Understood, sir. We’ll maneuver as necessary once we penetrate the field. No matter our flight path, the radical course corrections and/or navigational deflector activity *might* give us away. Let’s hope the sensor issues work both ways.” (Reply Salid iyw, Any) There was a thought. He fervently hoped that the sensor issues would not impact the navigational arrays. The deflector system was keyed off those… Any disruption or lag at this speed would ruin everyone’s day. =^=See you on the other side Captain, Rosenante out.=^= “Mind your heads on those rocks, sir.” (Reply Salid iyw) The series of orders he was about to give would very nearly mirror those being given aboard the Rosenante at virtually the same time. “Tactical, monitor the Rose as closely as you can. If anything unusual happens, I want to know about it immediately.” (Reply Tactical) “Engineering, at this speed we are going to have a rough ride to be sure. See if you can’t get some more power into the inertia dampers… and I recommend reinforcing the structural integrity fields as well.” (Reply Engineering) “All hands, this is the Captain again,” he began on shipwide. “We are on course to approach the inner solar system. In order to get their undetected, we are moving at full impulse through an extensive asteroid belt. I don’t think I need to tell you the implications of that, save the fact that this will be a pretty rough ride. Maintain Red Alert, rig for collision, and standby. Out.” He turned to Caskie and spoke conversationally, as though he were discussing his next shore leave. “You know Commander, that the ‘rig for collision’ condition dates *way* back. In the ‘blue water navy’ days, it involved physically closing water tight doors, among other things. What do you suppose our people would think if we asked them to go around and manually close every opening in the ship? No emergency forcefields or automatic bulkheads… computer controlled compartmentalization… none of it.” He smiled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Are we spoiled do you think? Or do the more complex risks we face counter that somewhat?” (Reply Caskie, Any, Room for more) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Bridge - FO - Commander T'Larah Sullivan - 0240) T'Larah could almost see the Captain's frustration. Being thrust into such a situation, and being the senior command staff present would have that effect on anyone. At least this time the Rose wasn't the only ship available or equipped to deal with the problem. The Boudicca had joined the Rosenante in their mission, only problem was even two of the mightiest ships in the fleet might not be able to handle what the entire fleet wouldn't be able to do. Yet, dutifully both crews pressed on determined to accomplish the impossible, no matter the cost. The pair of ships danced among the planets in the system speeding their way towards their mission. T'Larah's initial suspicions were correct involving at least on a very basic level what the pyramid designed Borg ship's function was. She felt a small tinge of pride, which was unusual for a Vulcan to show it. She hoped the understanding of the science section would be better then her's. T'Larah had a mind for physics especially how it related to stellar matter, but when things started going into subspace theory, she left that to the professionals. ~Why'd it have to be anti-protons?~ Captain Salid had passed some very precise instructions to the helm and had Jackson open a channel to the Boudicca, but instead of broadcasting it, the hail had more in-common with a phaser, so only those 'hit' with the beam had even a chance of receiving it. The only problem with that kind of communication was that you had to be able to have line of sight and effect to who it was you were hailing, but the need for encryption decreased dramatically. Then the Boudicca's Captain was soon on-screen. "Captain, we are to maintain speed as we pass through the asteroid field. I can not risk early detection by the Borg. As such, once we get inside, I recommend that you break formation if needed. I'm transmitting exit coordinates and a time line to you now." Ahmed said. (reply Durand) "See you on the other side Captain, Rosenante out." (reply Durand) Then with a few commands via com-badge the ship was prepared for a very dangerous but also very necessary trek through an asteroid belt. "Mister Sullivan, you have the bridge. I'll be in my quarters. Notify me when we've emerged from the field or if there are any significant changes." "Aye, sir." she said as she got up from her chair to the Captain's right, he vacated his and spoke to OPS before he left the bridge. "Mister Jackson, monitor the Boudicca, advise commander Sullivan immediately if she appears to be having any trouble." (Reply Jackson) When Captain Salid leaves the bridge T'Larah sits down in the center seat. "All stations as you were." She gave the command, she didn't want to change anything if it all, so far was going smoothly. ~As smoothly as a full impulse trip through an asteroid field can get.~ (Reply any on the Rose bridge) Posted by Todd --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Bridge - CTAC/SEC Lt. jg Ben Soma - 0242) Ben glanced up from his console to take notice of the planet, noticing certain similarities to Jupiter and also the differences. Both planets had their own beauty from space, surface conditions were a much different story. Dovek IV appeared to have more extensive storms, very inhospitable. Why the Borg appeared interested in it was a mystery. They were gradually closing in and he could feel the adrenaline begin to flow a little. What was waiting for them, would they survive, how many would be lost? All questions he didn't want answered in this particular case. Captain Salid began issuing new orders for all departments. "Mister Soma, Charge the secondary shield system and bring it on-line." Ben set about charging the secondary shield grid, running a quick diagnostic in the process. He brought the shields on line and replied. "Secondary shields active and stable." Once everyone had responded Salid left the bridge. "All stations as you were." T'Larah said. Ben went back to monitoring the shield grids for any indications of stress. (reply any on Bridge) (posted by Milo Young) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, Lieutenant jg Sanok, 0244) "All stations, as you were," said T'Larah. Sanok did a quick scan at his station, confirming that they were ready. Seated near Ben, he leaned closer to his friend and whispered. "You do realize, don't you, that once again, we will be finding ourselves together and in the middle of a fight?" (reply Soma) (posted by Bob) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, CTAC/SEC Lt. jg Ben Soma, 0245) Ben was keeping one eye on the shields and the other on the Borg for any indication that they had spotted the Rose. He hadn't noticed Sanok lean over but he heard his friend whisper. "You do realize, don't you, that once again, we will be finding ourselves together and in the middle of a fight?" Ben couldn't help but let a smile tweak the corners of his mouth as he turned towards Sanok and replied. "I wouldn't have it any other way my friend." Ben thought back to the scrapes he and Sanok had been through when they had served together before, the Hyperion fire, the riots on the freighter, the murder on Axtis III, the mysterious Magee and the recent murder on SB 989. Their careers to date had been far from boring. Ben wasn't sure if this time would be any different considering the new adversary, but what ever happened he was glad to be at his friends side again. (reply Sanok, any) (posted by Milo Young) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca – Bridge – CO Captain Durand – 0246*) Durand was still smiling from his conversation with Caskie, and he was determined to keep the mood as light as possible given the circumstances. He had learned long ago that the most effective way for him to lead was by example. Despite the best efforts of flight control and the engineering crews, the ride was indeed much rougher than some might be accustomed to. He wondered for a moment how some of the younger crew might be fairing during the turbulent journey. For his part, he had gotten his ‘space-legs’ long before. He stood to stretch and make rounds of each bridge station. A particularly nasty bounce greeted him just as he stood up, but by flexing his legs he easily rode the lurch of the deck and kept his feet. He winked at Caskie as he turned to retrieve his coffee mug. As he reached for it, he noted with amusement the ripples and eddies in the liquid as a result of the Boudicca’s movement. As he walked, he took a sip from his coffee, savoring the taste and warmth of the liquid. He made his way to the tactical station aft of the command chair and glanced at the displays. “Mister Trei, any indications of change in Borg activity? If they notice us we’ll need any heads up we can get.” (Reply Trei, Room for more iyw) He turned aft toward the science and engineering stations, both of which were manned due to the alert status. “Ensign… Vanik, correct? Commander Caskie informed me of your arrival. We’ll have a chat as soon as conditions permit, but in the meantime, what do you make of the Borg activities thus far? Why antiprotons? Can we compensate for the interference to improve sensor performance?” (Reply Vanik, Room for more) “Very well.” He turned to Gesar who was at the engineering position. “Chief, how are the system holding against the strain? If we have a sudden engagement with the Borg, I need to know that engineering is ready.” (Reply Gesar, Any, Room for more) (Posted by Russ) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Rosenante, Bridge, 2O/COPS Lt. Tom Jackson, Day 4 0249) The ride was getting bumper as they penetrated the asteroid belt. So far Steve Matrix and his team of magicians held things together despite the bone jarring bumps. The two ship formation dropped out of the asteroid belt. The ships were both already at Red Alert. Tension levels were at an all time high. Ensign Elena Holly was sitting at the science console. She was nervous. ~H*** I am nervous too~ Tom thought. He gave her a thumbs up to try and assure her. She smiled weakly and nodded. Tom wondered how many of them would be left a live in a few days. Time would tell he reasoned. (Reply: none) (Posted by: Bill) --------------------------------------------------------------------- (USS Boudicca - Bridge - TAC/SC Lieutenant(SG) Detron Trei - 0250) The ship passed through the asteroid field with less than normal difficulty. Detron manned the tactical station on the bridge as they approached the Borg cube. Captain Durand asked him if there was any indication the Borg detected them. They were under red alert understandably so tension was heightened. "No sir. I don't see any response of that kind here sir." Detron continued to watch the screen for any action from the Borg. (Reply Durand) (Posted by Edward) --------------------------------------------------------------------- End Compile ---------------------------------------------------------------------